Sunday, December 7, 2008

Thankful for Oscar and for Mischief

As some of you know, on Thanksgiving day we had to put Oscar down. Just thinking about it still makes me cry. But I am glad I was able to spend a day working for the floor at home and snuggling with Oscar on Wednesday. Mischief quickly put Nani in her place and made herself comfortable. But she didn't seem to mind my Oscar dog and they even stayed snuggling with me seperately on my bed for a while. Unfortunately Oscar was pretty fragile already from what we suspect was cancer in his liver.  When he hurt his hip on Thankgiving there wasn't much that we could do for him that would be not too painful. He was a wonderful dog and will always be my favorite first dog ever. I am really greatful to have Mischief to snuggle with when missing Oscar gets too bad. 

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Ode to Black Cats

I believe black cats are undiscovered decorator resource. They are a beautiful contrast against any color background; they are mysterious; they replace those 80's cat sculptures we all had with something that looks cool and also talks back. Mischeif carries on several conversations everyday with me. Mostly she doesn't seem to like my work shoes. Or the vaccum cleaner.

The one draw back of black cats is that while the hair is indistinguishable on your DC work clothes, it shows up all over your casual comfortable stuff. Just when I final seem to weeded out all the white Oscar hair on my black clothes, black Mischeif hair shows up on all my non-black clothes. Its a good thing she is cute.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Why people have animals

I know people have animals because we craved their unconditional affection. But I am also convinced that we have animals to make us seem more sane when we talk to ourselves. If you have an animal talking to yourself is ok. Samantha likes to talk to herself and I know she is not talking to Mischief! Whereas I seem ironically completely sane because I can talk "to my cat."

Balancing being gone

I realized after my first paycheck that I really am not going to have enough leave accrued to be away for the holidays. Which is seriously annoying given that I want to be home for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. Luckily I am already set up to work for home and I got the ok from my boss and my client to work from home around Thanksgiving! So I will be in Seattle on Wednesday and Friday but still "at work". Which is great. By the time Christmas rolls around I will have enough time accrued to actually be in Seattle and not at work for the week.

Paster Earl Palmer, who was executive pastor at our church University Presbyterian in Seattle, has now become the preaching pastor in residence at National Presbyterian which is less than 2 miles from my house. It will be nice to have something familiar in worship. I have been feeling displaced on that level.

Amusingly, as some of you are aware, the assistant secretary of ICE (the head of the org.) who is appointed by the president and confirmed by the congress (or in this case, recess appointed) announced the day after the election that she was resigning from her post as of the 15th. Its amusing on many levels, but also because this will be the first time I get to view a "changing" party winds blow through my job life. Luckily my job is safe and my humor is intact because it looks to be an interesting period. Look for amusing updates that I can actually relate without breaking my non-disclosure agreement. The stories I can already tell are bad but unfortunately. . . probably not supposed to be shared either!

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Oscar picture




isn't he darling?

Busy work and busywork

Work has kept me busy. Emotionally contemplative and evaluating to office interplay and politics, but not mentally on my toes. I am looking forward to a learning curve in future jobs that has less to do with learning personalities and more with learning. Despite this, I am enjoying getting paid and being occupied. And just like everything else, this is a good learning work experience. It will be good experience anywhere that has office politics (which is any job, really).

On a more fun note, I love my kitty. Mischief is wonderful, with many lovable and hilarious quirks that make her real and not just a furry lump. When I got her she a little extra weight. I have been trying asiduously to help shave her down the a sleeker size. Apparently cat dieting is not my forte. I am seriuosly thinking she has gotten larger and not smaller. I had been feeding her the store brand cat food she came with until she ran out. Then I tried a natural IAMS chicken and rice blend. It worried me when she didn't seem interested in eating it consistently for the first few days. So I went and bought Purina ONE weight control. I had intended to buy the super natural kind from the pet store, but Metro had a hiccup the same day so I just headed to Safeway rather than possibly getting stuck somewhere away from home by the fire between Metro Stations. The long and short is that Mischief doesn't consistently love this one either AND she still seems chubbier. What is a kitty-mama to do?

Considering I have sick old dog at home with my parents, I am just hoping both my beloved animals can continue comfortably and healthily forever, though I know that is not realistic. My funny Oscar dog has been the best friend a growing girl could have. Unfortunately he hasn't felt up to causing trouble lately. I am praying he will feel better soon, that by the time Thanksigiving comes around Oscar will be up to enjoying some turkey and gravy.

Sunday, October 12, 2008

My sleepy kitty. Now anyway. Last night at midnight, she was determined to defeather her mouse, running back and forth in my room. Well, I love her anyways.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

I earned 5 hours

I have earned 5 hours of vacation time. It may not be much to you . . . but its symbolic to me. Vacation is in my future! Thanksgiving and turkey and Christmas and family. Super exciting.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Mischief pictures . . .



The video shows my little Mischief (whom I am starting to call MayMay, like sweatheart in Chinese) playing with her feather-tailed mouse. Plus I bought a stick with a hanging little cloth. She loves it and I like helping her get exercise (she is a little bit rounded).  Its like I got a kitten with a grown up body and laid-back style.  

My "boss" is going to be working from home tomorrow. So I am going to be going in late (9am instead of 8:20am) and trying to go to bed early. Frankly I can't stand anymore presidential debate. Ugh . . . ugh.

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Happy Mischief . . .

I have a kitty! Her name is Mischief.How cool is that! She really likes a certain spot on the bed already and though she hasn't shown huge "lap cat" tendancies but she has been very easy-going and happy, I think. Like really likes sleeping on the bed with me (I was lying down reading). She is so soft! She feels wonderful. Hopefully Samantha will warm up. So far, she isn't to pleased to have this become reality, even though she ok'd the whole thing. Luckily I think Mischief is going to be a really easy adjustment. She lets me pick her up and hold her; she purrs easily and often. Hopefully she can learn to leave Samantha alot of space. 

Friday, October 3, 2008

Mischief and more

So this may be my new cat. Her name is Mischief and she is 5 years old, and a true lap cat I am told. She was in a happy home but her papa got sick and is no longer able to take care of her and her other friends. Since she is a little black kitty, she is much harder to place. Plus she is older, two strikes. But she maybe absolutely perfect for me! Apparently she is very adaptable and I am so excited. I am ready to be slightly rash in this decision. I have been preparing and thinking about this for a long time and have met many cats already. I think I am at the point where I don't need a bolt of lightening love, but a healthy liking and hope for the future. And an expectation of falling in love really soon.

As far as work, it was a really good day today. Lots of people peaced out at work today completely or at least early, plus everyone left was on site of one of our projects, even my "boss"-client. But then he came is and gave me some work. I am 
feeling much more confident that I can figure these things out. I may be "green" but I am not stupid. I can learn! It was nice to get a whole bunch done today. And to look at Monday and see things to do, things that I can actually accomplish!


Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Work: Day 2

The day started strong with meetings almost back to back. I got to see the site of our biggest current project and my client got to show me all the cool things he has been working on. It definitely came home to me today that I came as the sky was falling at the office, in terms of all the things going on. Luckily my work crew is really good overall, but everything going on is crazy. By the end of the day, however, I was pretty exhausted. Like all my coping skills and perspective got thrown out the window.

On the home front, Oscar, my Oscar has been feeling a little punk. Merissa was supposed to take him the vet today, but I am not sure how that went. Though I realize that part of me should be prepared to lose him at his age, I know I never will be. With Mom busy, there is definitely some stress of things to worry about.

On a humorous note, everyone joked about me stepping in at a difficult time. One person even joked that I may be secretly considering calling an old boss and polishing my resume. When I told Allison, my boss, jokingly about it and she was ready to go hunt them down and take them on. She was seriously (though amusingly) peeved.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Work: Day 1

All the boring stuff like insurance, plus all the names coming at you faster than light speed. Now its memorizing people, because they are pretty much the largest part of what I am going to be doing!! One day soon I will explain more for whom I work. But . . . tonight I am too tired. I watched Chuck tonight on NBC and some MSNBC to catch up with the day, and now I really tired. More later. I promise. 1 cool thing: I got a government issued Blackberry. How cool is that?

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Savannah and other catie issues


Today I met Savannah. She was a complete darling. Very sweet and affectionate. Not a super hard core personality, she just wants to hang out with the peoples. Any peoples. Which makes me a little worried for how Samantha would handle her. Although she is not a lap cat, she does really want to be nearby and seeks attention from anyone who walks in the door. I almost feel like maybe I am not social enough for her. I think she would enjoy a high traffic house, with lots of people coming and going and her able to demand the attention of them all. Maybe a family, with many people, kids and parents, etc.

I felt similarly to the meeting with Katie. Right afterward, I felt completely unsure. The longer 
I thought about it, the more I figured out how it could work. But I am still unsure. As I talked it over with my mom, she reccommended meeting a third cat. So I headed up to PetMac DC, which is a pet store and adoption center, which always has some cats on hand. I met Spice, who was a cute little calico who was ridiculously small since she just finished nursing a litter of kittens. She didn't mind being held for a little bit but definitely didn't find it super exciting.

Happily I met the adoption coordinator for another cat I had been interested in, Hazelnut (known now as Gabby), while I was in the store. She offered to bring Gabby to visit on Friday night to my apartment to meet and maybe even try her out. I am tempted. I really was hoping this could be settled now, but I just have not "fallen in love" with any of these kitty. As enjoyable and beautiful as they all are, none of them have touched my heart. Perhaps I just need to go to a shelter and pick?

(Top two are Savannah, bottom is Hazelnut/Gabby)

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Maybe Katie


I gave up on Tammy the kitty after weeks of pursuit. She having peeing outside the box issues. And while I admire people who can think outside the box, peeing is another thing entirely. So I am 'interviewing' two kitty this weekend. Today I met Katie. She is a beautiful long haired charcoal color (see the picture). She appears to be pretty big but when you actually get your hands on her, she is pretty smallish. Still substantial, but not huge. She is definitely a 'personality,' which is a politely hidden way of saying slightly difficult. I think she will definitely be a little work, but a completely loyal cat, very uninterested in being touched or associated with strangers. She is also one who would prefer sole reign of the house, without other animals (she has only be tested with other cats). I personally don't think she minds them that much, but she does tell them to steer clear with little grrr here and there. She did let me hang out near her quite easily and pet her for short periods of time. Her foster mom said it took a good month before Katie would allow her to pet without batting at her. She would go for days and then do it again. It definitely a method of showing whose boss. She does consent to sit near her foster mom now and enjoy up close love. The jury is still out. Tomorrow I meet Savannah, who promises to be a little easier.

Part of me wants to take Katie, simply because I know she will be really hard to place. Few people want a cat that may never be super affectionate. Though I think she would eventually become easier, she will never be easy. 

On another completely unrelated note, I am now a huge fan of Animal Planet. The show Its me or the Dog and the Animal Police, Houston are my favorites. Though it hard to watch animals being mistreated on the Animal Police, they always show you the happy ending or at least good ending. I think living with a pet (specifically my Oscar dog) has made me go slightly nuts, craving the animal interaction. Even though I realize I can't have a dog as I face med school in the semi-immediate future (definitely within the life span of a dog, even an older one), I really miss having that companion, intelligent and interactive. Ok, so this wasn't completely unrelated.

For those of you who have missed the odd anecdotes of daily life that used to make up the this blog, its coming again. Monday starts the new Chapter : Malia works random job and become a financially responsible citizen. We see how that goes.

I will up date tomorrow and tell you how Savannah flies.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Presidential debate

Samantha and I are counting the number of time the words "maverick,"  "my friends," Bush/McCain connection, and "main street." Everytime a someone says or makes one of those points, we laugh hard. The first part of the debate, every other moment we were catching these phrase. They have since trickled to nothing. Ugh. . .

Monday, September 22, 2008

Work hair or hair that works . . .

I have a hair appointment for tomorrow. Not only do I really need a trim, I also need some serious ideas about how to make it work for work. Cross your fingers.

Good news, bad news. Ain't that always the way.

I was suprisingly awake at 8am this morning to the tune of WAMU (the local NPR). This alarm goes off every morning but n0t all mornings does it actually wake me. Normally bad news increases the likelihood of me waking: Huge drops in the stock market; trillion dollar government bailout packages; DC rep's worrying about DC violence and gun laws. This morning it was just the usual. Or at least usual for lately. Bad economic news, etc. I get the economy in the morning with a little political coverage (I normally turn it off then) and the presidential race in the evenings with Samantha and MSNBC. As much as I appreciate the humor most of the time, I will be very ready for a good candidate to be picked and move on from the election to good, well thought out reforms. 

At just a little after 9 though, I got excellent news for my own personal economy. I have been cleared to start my job. So at the latest I will start Monday, maybe earlier. Though this is excellent news for my bank account and personal economy, its really bad news for my plans to do nothing for days on end. . . In all seriousness I am looking forward to occupying my mind on more than just waiting for a kitty and improving my French skills.

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Kitty ahead

I have been officially ok'ed to own a kitty by the Homeward Trails Animal rescue people, local animal fostering/adoption organization. To cut down on overall costs of maintaining animals longer than county shelters that are forced to euthanize, they have many people foster the animals in there own home. I think it is really cool way to make sure that animals are able to live long enough to find good adoption homes. Some take longer than others. How cool is that?

Anyway, I was interested in two kitties, both of which seemed beautiful and easy. Someone (kittywise) that would transition into my home easily and not mind being taken to Mom and Dad's for long vacations around Christmas, one who would enjoy the dogs! Unfortunately both have their little drawbacks, and one is getting somethings worked out. Which is best for me even though I don't want to wait at all. Its been close to a month since I started the process and my "adoption coordinator" and I talked tonight, she apologized. Normally it doesn't take this long. As much as I want Tammy (hopefully my kitty) tomorrow, I know its better that I have actually started my job (or have a real start date). Pray for both. I need to make money for bills.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Wednesdays possible

There is a distinct possibility that I will get to follow around a pediatric gastro-enterology doctor at Georgetown Hospital. I am super excited since that is the exact field that I am thinking of entering (at least this month). Cross your fingers and pray that this will work out long term with my job. Which has not materialized yet. Still waiting for the department of Homeland Security (hereafter known as "the man" or DHS) to get on the ball and determine that I am not : A) dead, B) a major felon, C) linked to the international network of unsavory people. Needless to say, this is a tremendous undertaking considering my super sketchy past (haha). Pray that this moves a little more swiftly. I would like to pay next months rent.

On a distinctly fabulous note, today I bought the America's Test Kitchen Family Baking Cookbook. I am very excited, even though some of the recipes are repeats of the ones in my other complete family cookbook. I can thoroughly recommend the original (its red). It is the best replacement to Betty Crocker's or Better Homes and Garden's ever found. Every recipe is a guaranteed hit and even has pictures and complete explanations that go from simple to extensive, great for the experienced or the never initiated cook. I can't recommend this enough.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

How can this be a good idea? Call to 'arms'

I rarely, if ever, use my blog to talk about politics. I know that not all my friends and family agree with me or each other. I would rather keep everyone up to date with my life through anecdotes. HOWEVER, after hearing about and researching this debate I find I must call you to action, however you see fit. Naturally, I want you to feel as I do. Don't tell me if you don't, but do be completely informed. And that maybe much more difficult than you think.

Most of you are aware, or have heard something about the recent decision by the Supreme Court (District of Columbia v. Heller) to end Washington DC's 32 year handgun ban. While larger and longer guns were previously allowed, now guns of all types except those specifically regulated under law (basically legalizing anything that is not completely automatic). This decision has been controversial and hotly debated. It doesn't help that many of the people involved in pushing the Heller court case to the highest level were people completely unrelated to DC itself. All of this aside, DC is in the process of crafting new ordinances on the carrying and use of firearms in the nation's capital. The Supreme Court has given them a predefined period to comply completely with the new ruling. Currently the city is following a set of 'emergency' laws set in place until longer term legislation could be crafted.

HOWEVER, currently in committee in the House of Representatives is a proposition by a Democratic representative from Mississippi (and others) which would leave gun ownership and normal oversight completely open in DC, and out of the control of the DC government itself. It abolishes the need to register guns at all in the District of Columbia and sets up interstate gun commerce, allowing DC residents to buy guns in Maryland or Virginia. Every other state in the Union does NOT allow guns to be purchased out of state by individual residents. When this proposal was brought before the committee it was revealed that the version of the bill released to the press had different language from the bill actually before the House. This difference in language greatly changed the meaning of the clauses involving public display of firearms. It would legalize the carrying of a loaded semi-automatic rifle in the District of Columbia. Anywhere. While the NRA has claimed this is just scare tactics, trying to prevent people from defending themselves, the House Committee on Oversight and Governmental Reform admits that this is actually true based on the current language of the bill. It would also eliminate the current age requirement and five year waiting period for those who have been voluntarily to committed for psychiatric treatment

Most disturbing for the long run is implication to what would traditionally called "states rights." DC has a long history of a contentious relationship with the lawmakers who just occasionally live here. As one commentator said, " How the congressfolk [. . .] justify laughing in the general direction of lawmaking by duly elected local officials may seem hard to fathom, but hey, that's what Congress does for its entertainment. [. . .] whenever members of Congress want to send a message back home by taking a tough stand that won't have the slightest impact on their own constituents, they play with the District." While this might seem unnecessarily bitter, its also hard to understand a country built on voting rights for all, one who fueled the Revolution on cries of 'No Taxation without Representation,' and yet has denied this right to the two million people living in it's own capital city. AND whenever a bill crafted to give the non-voting representatives of DC to the House an actual vote comes before Congress, it is shot down. How can giving people a vote in the future of the country be a bad idea? Are DC residents some how less worthy than the rest of the country.

Ok, so I don't think that is necessarily the thinking of the rest of the country in terms of DC voting rights, but it is stressful issue in DC politics. Should the a body of people specifically not from a place be allowed to legislate for that place? Shouldn't the place be able to create it's own laws, within the confines of federal statute and jurisprudence?

Because I am all about being balanced, below are some statements from both the Washington Post and the NRA website about the legislation. These are direct quotes followed with links to their sources. Listed first is a letter composed by the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence.
This site allows you to change the letter composed and sends it automatically to your Senators and Congressional representatives based on your address. Consider signing it after your own careful research. Here are some places to start. (Above are links to the Supreme Court decision as well as the new proposal before congress).

From the Washington Post
Gun Bill Dangerous, D.C. Chief Tells House

Editorials
"The bill on the Hill would completely undermine Fenty's efforts, forcing the city to allow military-style semi-automatic weapons, preventing the city from discouraging gun ownership, even repealing the city's ban on gun ownership by those under the age of 21. There would be no gun registration rules, no requirements that guns be kept locked up." Wa. Post
City in the Crossfire: A House panel considers gutting gun restraints, home rule and basic public safety in the District.
The House's Stickup: Democrats agree to consider legislation stripping the District of the right to regulate guns.

NRA written support of new legislation : Support Effort to Restore the Second Amendment Rights of D.C. Residents
This critical legislation overturns D.C.'s recently enacted emergency laws [. . .]Repeal the District's ban on semi-automatic handguns.  [. . .] Reform the current D.C. registration system that requires multiple visits to police headquarters; ballistics testing; passing a written test on D.C. gun laws; fingerprinting; and limiting registration to one handgun per 90 days.  The current system is unduly burdensome and serves as a vehicle for even more onerous restrictions; and Create a limited exemption to the federal ban on interstate handgun sales by allowing D.C. residents to purchase handguns in Virginia and Maryland.

Yep, still stinkin' good

I went to check my MCAT scores online again, just in case. Still the same. Still really good. How cool is that.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

MCAT scores revisited

I got them and they are good. Better than average!! Hurrah!

MCAT scores yet?!!!?

I have been waiting with baited breath (ok, I haven't been losing sleep) for the scores release. Its been slightly over a month (by 2 days) so I figured they were late. But a friend reminded me that there was a release schedule. Its supposed to tenatively be released today after 5pm Eastern. What am I going to do when I know? What if its bad? What if I have to take it again? All your prayers come in here (and your thoughts!). 

I promise to post pictures soon!


Thursday, September 4, 2008

Pamela and I's good day

With some mild unrest later in the evening. Not to be entered into here. Just trying to settle it all out. My stomach, my mind, my political opinions, my relationships. Whenever there is a small question it opens up a large questions on every topic in my mind. Why can't I just stop thinking sometimes. . . .

And for those of you in my life who have belabored and abhored my indecisiveness, today I was give example that I may have become too decisive, in the not best way. I really wanted to paint the walls of my apartment. As luck would have it there are now complete samples of colors from different selection which allow you to try out and buy without completely sinking money into it. I tried it on my bedroom wall. The pleasant calming green with gray hint which I had hope to convince Samantha to use through out the apartment is now a disgusting seafoam on my wall where nothing else resides. As soon as it dries I will be covering it with a poster. And later another attempt at paint, possibly in a nice neutral tone . .  . like cream.

I promise to post my pictures from forever ago and today. Just seems to take some work. And its closing in on 1 am. So I ought to probably sleep now.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Samantha sleeps

Samantha is sleeping through Barack Obama's acceptance speech at the Democratic Nantional Conference. Even if you don't like him, it is a completely rousing and inspiring. But apparently not inspiring enough to keep my political science major roommate awake.

Yes, it has been a while since I posted. And much has happened. I will give a more lengthy update soon, but I am well. No, I don't have an idea about what I got on my MCAT. And yes, I do have a job, hopefully starting sooner rather than later. And yes I have some really wonderful pictures from lengthy time in Seattle including a wonderful hike on Mt. Ranier that was fantastic! I can't wait to do it again.

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Tomorrow mornings MCAT

I took a practice one today. It went so well that I don't trust the results at all. More practice tests I take, the more I am beginning to believe that there is an element of luck this test. My results have varied between a range of 9 points and while all were good numbers, how can you trust a standardized test that varies that much with the exact same test taker?

Pray and cross your fingers tomorrow. Whatever you happen to believe it, I will take it all. The only thing I can count on about tomorrow's outcome is that at least the whole thing will be over.

Sunday, August 3, 2008

I love cheddar

I love even pretty normal cheddar. Obviously fantastic is better (ex. Tillamook) but I will settle. What I do not love is low fat cheddar. I made the mistake of buying the low fat cheddar cheese sticks from Trader Joe's and have been cursing the $.40 I "saved" ever since. Seriously folks, cheddar is not supposed to taste like plastic. I suppose if I wasn't used to such fine quality cheeses it would be fine. Alas, maybe I am a cheese snob.

Thursday, July 31, 2008

"The trouble with fighting for human freedom is that one spends most of one's time defending scoundrels. For it is against scoundrels that oppressive laws are first aimed, and oppression must be stopped at the beginning if it is to be stopped at all.
- HL Mencken"

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Didn't take a single picture

I went to the Spy Museum here in DC yesterday with my little sis from the sorority and two friends of hers who were also from the sorority. I thoroughly enjoyed myself doing both the museum and the "Operation Spy." Warning, however, this is pretty much the only museum in DC with a cover charge, and its steep. 25 bucks for the two parts when bought together. So I probably won't be going there to hang out randomly. But I did learn more about the building that makes of the entire view for every window in the apartment. Apparently when the Soviets were building this new embassy compound here in Glover Park, the Americans were equally busy making sure the whole thing was bugged everywhere. The Russians got rid of some and others didn't find for quite a while. And there is a rumored tunnel somewhere from one of the nearby houses going under the embassy to listen in, though that is unconfirmed yet.

The bummer of the experience is that I completely forgot to take my camera so I missed out on pictures of anything there or later when we adjourned to McCormick and Schmidt after stopping in the National Portrait Gallery (which was AMAZING! I love Thomas Hart Benton and Catlin and early 19th century American furniture). Samantha met up with us at the restaurant where we bought out the really cheap happy hour deals, ordering one of at least half the menu and sharing all around. Though portions were small, we were all filled. But may I completely reccommend this happy hour. For $1.95 you get a half pound burger and fries. It was AWESOME! That was not small, so it offset the shrimp creviche which tasted excellent but consisted of only four battered shrimp. Total. I must admit to being eager to return for the burger and a taste of one of the few things on the menu we didn't try, bacon and cheddar taters.

Megan and her visitors returned briefly to Baltimore then came back to stay with me and Sam last night. I really enjoyed having visitors, despite the mess of the apartment and I think they enjoyed staying here.

This morning, despite getting little sleep, the visiting crew left for Virginia Beach and shortly there after Samantha informed me I was not going to be catching up on my sleep but joining her for her school's picnic. Social situations with absolutely no one I know are not completely my strong point, but I think Samantha was glad I was there for the first part and I really enjoyed seeing everyone, children, parents and teachers interacting. It was very joyful and relaxed. And man were the little ones, some only in pre-kindergarten, awfully cute. I would have loved to hang out with some of them for a little while, but they were all going a million miles a minute, jumping on the moon bounce, running through the obstacle course and sliding the huge blow-up slide to the bottom. Reminds me of my Declan who is not so little at all, but still so gosh darn cute!

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Riding in the rain

When I left Georgetown from class, it was drizzling heavily. I tried walking and talking on my cell with my umbrella up and leading my bike. Unfortunately I was at least 1 hand short for that, so it didn't last very long. I decided the best thing to do would be ride my bike home. Faster so it might have worked to keep me less wet. I arrived home completely sopped, but I throughly enjoyed it. It felt fantastic to be completely soaking as I powered up the hill home. I can sincerely reccomend it. For a short journey anyway!

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

The doctor says I am not sick enough. . .

When I woke up this morning with pain in both ears in addition to the other sick, I decided that maybe a trip to the doctor could be warranted. Guess what he told me to do? Wait! For the length I was thinking (until around Friday) then if not getting better start taking the prescription he gave me. I could have done that! Geez louise! At least he didn't make me come back in again to write it. I only have to come back if I don't get better after the antibiotics. The bummer is if the whole thing is viral, the antibiotics won't help anyway! Cross your fingers and pray.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

The cold optimist

Since I have had a sore throat for almost a week I thought that when to whole thing developed into an actual cold/sinus infection this weekend, the whole thing would end quickly. Obviously. This morning I was proven completely wrong. Well, we can only hope for the best. Ironically from the girl who is constantly trying to talk all her doctor-phobic friends into going to see the doctor more often, I keep trying to get away with letting the cold incubate and end on its own. I firmly believe in letting the immune system fight (when its reasonable) and not over using antibiotics... however it may be coming to that time.

On other notes, Samantha finally started "teaching" yesterday (actually only observed) and met her kids. I asked her how she felt about it, whether she thought they would be a good bunch. She is still crossing her fingers. After all, every class, even the terrifying ones, start out being good.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Internet at last!

We still can't control the tv with the universal remote and Samantha lost the original. There are worse things I suppose. Hurrah for communication.

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Ah, a simpler life

I long for it. Oh well. More to do, less decisions. Haha, I want to be a doctor? you say. Well, I just hate facing choosing work decisions. I can do the other. Oh well.

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

No, I didn't fall into a hole

I just have spent the last few days moving alot of stuff and keeping up with my MCAT class. Needless to say, not having internet at Samantha and I's apartment really bites. I miss being available and online most all the time. Especially to get distracted and play silly games. Though moving in to a new apartment is just as distracting, I must admit. Today I sorted out a huge chunk of the kitchen, trying to find room for Sam and my stuff. Which shouldn't be a problem . . . .but apparently not only do we both like to cook (and have the stuff to prove it), I love to buy food, even when I take a while to go through it. Luckily for me it doesn't have to be the eating (although I love to eat!). I just really like grocery shopping too. Urg. Canned goods have not yet found a home in the kitchen. Its getting a bit squeezy for sure!

As soon as I actually remember my own address (its new, ok) I will send out an email with that so you can send lovely housewarming cards or just consent to look at the pictures online, which I will be so excited to share soon.

On a happy note, I end. MCAT prep is going really, really well. My practice test on Saturday went swimmingly and I am really pleased with the strides I have been making for sure. Now if I can continue and completely blow them out of the water!

Friday, June 27, 2008

Dad's views of Lake Serene hike

A less snowy view of Lake Serene trail. Amazing difference in less than month!

I wish I had forgotten longer. . .

After a day yesterday of stomach revolt, today I played it close, trying to rest and sleep and eat nothing. I still don't know what set off a truly uncomfortable episode, and while the nausea seemed gone today I still didn't feel up to par stomach wise. Even just drinking full glasses of liquid was beyond me. But I did make it out of the house for a brief period and managed to eat a bowl of soup, which is 1 meal more than yesterday. The knots in my muscles are less than appreciated and lend weight to the theory that the whole thing can be laid at a virus's door. Thank the Lord that the body is capable of healing, even when its not as fast as one would like.

Which leads me tomorrow, which I was hoping to take to lay low in preparation for Sunday in New York, moving Samantha and her ridiculous multitude of books down to DC. Fortunately (/unfortunately) I just realized I am taking another practice MCAT tomorrow. Great news for later. Sucks right now. Pray for recuperative sleep and a stomach that doesn't feel completely unglued tomorrow.

Sunday, June 22, 2008

Samantha and Malia's new apartment 2

Outside view!

Samantha and Malia's new apartment 1

A look at the living room/dining nook.

New apartment pictures, the quick and the dirty.

A new kitchen, with new appliances (including a cabinet mounted microwave and dishwasher, what luxury!). The apartment building is old, with wood floors, and lots of space. I will definitely need to bring some color and life to my room, which is much less light than my old studio, but the living room and dining nook are quite light filled. But I definitely see lots of up lamps moving in after I get a secured income (still working the post-mcat job aspect). Pray that I would find something that would keep me comfortably and still be enjoyable.

And now. . .

Samantha and I found an apartment this weekend. I really like the look of it all. The location is near my old apartment, but off of Wisconsin Ave. The view can't compare but hey, the back side of the Russian Embassy can't be all bad, can it? Suprisingly the rent was the most reasonable for the any area we actually wanted to live. I did find something cheaper, but Samantha refused to get out of the car to look at it. So we decided it might not work to live there.

Here on the pictures and a videos will follow.


Ok, this is not our view, but it is a pretty cool part of DC Chinatown.
And this also isn't our view, but I did enjoy reminding myself of some of the completely amazing things about living in DC.
This is our view, or part of it and while not as completely awesome as the first two, or even my old view, it is still a pretty acceptable. Samantha preferred the ground floor retaining wall view, but I vetoed that.
And if this view from the apartment isn't good enough for you, at least think, at least it isn't this view. My feet are functional and great. But the tan line hardly adds the necessary je n'ai sais quoi. After an arduous weekend of hunting apartments, we drove out to Chain Bridge and the Potomac Gorge (I will take pictures next time, I promise). Then we returned to the District and parked to join the Smithsonian Folklife festival, which unfortunately starts this week, not this weekend. What we completely missed was the HUGE, HUGE Capital Cookoff that was going on North of the Mall, with large sections of Pennsylvania avenue closed off. I was bummed to have settled for a brownie in the sculpture garden, but I did get to dip my feet in the fountain!

Return to MCAT's tomorrow!

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Those moments

Laughter and tears are both responses to frustration and exhaustion. I myself prefer to laugh, since there is less cleaning up to do afterward.
- Kurt Vonnegut

When stress shouldn't be a problem but apparently rules your life? Yuck. I lost my keys today. I found them again too, but for an hour fear ran my stomach. Its ridiculous. All the keys were replaceable. But I was still driving myself nuts. Thank the Lord that the car rental place had them from yesterday. I guess I was so focused on leaving and getting away from the sketchy 5 foot tall high pressure sales guy that I just booked it out of there. All worked out to everyone's satisfaction.

MCAT study continues. I went to Georgetown for class last night instead of Howard and found the smaller class size incredibly helpful. It really increased the interaction available. It will foul up my time schedule a bit in taking the test, but I think I will learn and remember more. The class is older as a whole, so I am thinking that will help as well. More my peer age group.

Samantha is coming down this weekend to look at apartments since she received a job offer this week. I think she is pleased about moving down here, but this job sound high stress. Another teaching job. Hopefully we will all survive. Moving in with her will definitely save us both moving for long term living and make commuting easier for me, but I will miss the family interaction and discount living I am getting at Hope's. Cross your fingers and pray (which ever you do) and hope that this living situation, everything life-related, is the right decision. I still have lots of nerves. Yuck, again.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

There's something about the Blommer

The science library at GU, that is. It just makes me want to write! Most obviously about myself and anything else I can think of. However today I actually have news and fun stories to tell!

Starting with yesterday. I went on an interview with my cousin Hope's company. It went really well. I enjoyed meeting the different company recruiters and dressing up to look the part. Office attire is so fun. The interview process lasted two and a half hours, though it was fairly free form, so its not like I was being grilled under lamps for that long. Although there was brief mention of finding salt and pepper.

By that time, I needed to catch a bus into town (it was in Mclean) and make the switch so Hope could have a car to come home in. I arrived barely ontime to my first MCAT prep course (ExamKrackers) and found out no the class or teacher. I hung out talking to another kid waiting, a 5th year senior from University of Missouri named Osa. After the interview, I was primed to make friends and connections with strangers.

The class, unfortunately, which was to have started at 2pm had been moved to 6pm. This was something I had been trying to avoid because it made commuting out to Dulles area of northern Virginia impossible. But I stuck around the District, shopped Marshall's and Target at Columbia Heights and ended up with a really cute pair of shoes, which placed different blisters on my feet than the ones I was wearing. It thundered and lightening royally and had started to spit rain about the time I moved from eating a sub for lunch to drinking Starbucks coffee (grande skinny vanilla, as always).

The torrents of sheeting rain had tapered to a soaking pour by the time I left to catch the Metro back to campus. But the walk to the Howard campus was several blocks. Even though I had time, I decided not to wait for the bus. I was going to enjoy the rain. Even though my glasses were impenetrable from rain drops and my nice ironed shirt (lets face it, it had already been had!) was completely soaked. I was very thankful I had worn a small cami underneath, since I would a been showing more than I am normally comfortable with! I had no hope of arriving anything less than looking like a drowned rat, when a Prius stopped at the curb and the man inside rolled down the window. I was a little sketched out until an umbrella was outstretched. I laughed and said, "you feel that bad for me? Thank you so much." I think I heard a "your welcome" from the car as it immediately pulled away from the curb, the window not even beginning to roll up yet. It was a wonderful thing to do and made my day. Probably even my week.

The class turns out to have been a sponsored one for Howard University students, so there were only three of us who did "belong." It also meant we were the three who had paid the most for the course! But though I think pretty much everything I learn in the class will be redundant, the repetition is exactly what I need to totally kick the MCAT out of the park, which I feel is a real possibility.

Class ran long. I ended leaving before it was done. I am guessing it continued for at least 20 more minutes. I had a bus to catch that left L'Enfant Plaza at 10:38, which I hadn't anticipated being problematic. Well, it was. Trains take longer at night. And guess what? The exit to the correct corner (D and 7th) was completely closed. When I left the Metro station the clock said 10:35pm. I started running up the escalator. And thought I had had gotten lost in a mall or something. Luckily I chucked my pride and asked for directions from a security guard right there because even after running down the block (in heels with blisters no less) I just barely made the bus. They were about to pull out. Since it was the last bus of the night, and it already arrived at 11:30 pm, I was completely sunk for public transportation if I missed it. Praise the Lord, I made it. It made for a long day, pretty rough. And I can't express my thanks to Hope enough for staying awake and about long enough to come get me at the bus stop, especially since she had to be up early this morning to leave for another round of work.

Thank you, Hope. For the many helps.

Lastly, a funny story from my best friend, who suffers through the trials and tribulations of being a middle school teacher in the Bronx for only 11 more days of school. Two years over with. Maybe they were well spent. I know you sure feel spent. So during the course of staff meeting with all the teachers, her principal notes that "she helps out with all the children on all 8 continents." For those of you not perfectly remembering your fifth grade geography and counting slowly in your mind (as I did) making certain that what just sounds wrong actually is wrong. There are 7 continents, and she is probably only involved with helping children on the 6 inhabited ones. Apparently now the teachers at the school talk about the outreach to penguin children.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

my new favorite game at yahoo

Its embarassing to admit how much I enjoy the mindlessness of this game! Tomorrow is my interview. Should be good fun! (Harhar!)

http://games.yahoo.com/free-games/hot-dog-bush

TMI to totally nothing . . .

Yes, just focusing on MCAT prep, living at my cousin Hope's, and not being required to constantly check assignments online has moved me from telling everyone, everything, all the time to nothing, rarely and never. Its not all entire intentional. I have been puttering around with few terribly exciting developments. I started taking practice MCATs. My first today went entirely well and I have 5 more practice ones to go, so its all only going up! I hoping that my amazing, fantastic unbelievable score will carry me easily through admissions, although I am not holding my breath for that. I start seriously ear marking my AAMC book which lists schools and with various pertinent information. I am excited beyond belief but prayerful. In an admissions environment which keeps saying that they are not relying as heavily on MCATs, I am hoping for a more in that direction, even! Oy.

That's pretty much my life right now, along with applying for jobs. I am interviewing on Monday, but the position is entirely non-medical, which is an obvious drawback. Pray and hope that something wonderful will come along here soon. I have a little bit of breathing room for studying thanks to my parents (wonderful parents!) gently encouraging me and backing me up for it.

Family life around the Benitez-Murphy-Everheart "clan" has had some ups and downs recently. My cousin's son graduated from high school today, the first of the younger generation. Payton and Hailey (another part of my "cousin's-children" generation, and my generous house sharers at the moment) have just about finished the regular soccer season. Though Hope has the joy tomorrow of sharing her wedding anniversary with Father's day and one last soccer tournament day. Hailey has been off and on sick, however, for the last two weeks and capped off today's long but successfully rainy day by a round of stomach upset. All five who live in this house pray that this bug remains quarantined and short.

Ok, now that is pretty much my life. Although I do have the joy of extending congratulations next Saturday to a long time friend getting married. And perhaps more importantly (just kidding) she is moving in the DC area. That makes two new DC additions. Hurrah for recruiting people to the crazy weather, pretty but weird DC.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

In the midst of storm there is a rainbow


This does no justice to the weather yesterday. I biked to Dulles airport from Hope's to catch a bus into the district. Shortly after everyone got on the bus, the rain started sheeting down. At one point all the cars on the toll way were pulled off because visibility was so bad. Several tornadoes touched down in the area and many areas were without power last night. I waited for almost an hour and a half for the bus as the line of customers lengthened. The orange metro line which runs west lost electrical power between two key commuter stations. Though they promised to shuttle passengers, one bus rider said the scene was chaos and that there were thousands milling around waiting for the shuttles. That made the bus line to the airport which also services the Herndon Monroe Park and Ride an easier, if not faster, way home for many who live out in the boonies near Dulles (sorry, guys, it really is far out here! Not saying its not pretty!) When we finally waded through traffic, the rain again started up. My brilliant plan to bike home again was foiled. Thankfully Hope came to pick me up. We stopped at Wegmann's for dinner where this rainbow shot was taken. Quite pretty, yes?

Monday, June 2, 2008

Last night with a view. . .

I have been achingly slowly (or so it seems) cleaning and packing my apartment to move. Tomorrow I will remove the last pieces and return the keys. Moving makes me extremely melancholy. This one perhaps more so since the life I have lived in this space has not been shared daily. It was just my apartment.

So I sit on the floor, watching Wedding Singer on DVD, wondering how I am going to get all the last odds and ends into my rental Ford Focus, considering whether the hassel of the small pieces left are really worth the price and trouble that they present (can I throw away the syrup just because I am annoyed by trying to fit everything in?). Two giant bulging IKEA bag represent the laundry I need to do. A two fragile lamps, potted herbs, a tv and salvaged tv stand, a suitcase full of mostly organized and clean clothes, a vacuum cleaner. An entire dish set and silverware. As I write I realize how much stuff there still is to go. Including my bike, which won't fit well with any of the other things. Time to go to sleep, I guess. How did I collect this much stuff in one year?

Friday, May 30, 2008

Dramatic irony adn other definitions. . .

I was discussing the definition of irony in the context of the current Democratic fight. If dramatic irony is the audience knowing something that the characters don't, is Hillary Clinton continuing in the face of almost impossible odds a sign of a sort of irony: does she know something we (the audience/voting public) don't know?

In my own irony question: does somebody already know how my story ends and be willing to clue me in? It looks that for the summer duration I will be enjoying DC hospitality. Cross your fingers and pray!

Monday, May 26, 2008

Ok, so I haven't written in a while. . . .



A friend told me today that I am being "elusive." Well I promise I am not trying to be mysterious, just noncommittal. I had a brilliant plan which included being employed by now. So far that really has not happened. So I guess I just need to focus on MCAT without employment in the short term. Ugh!

In all fairness to me, I have been sorta busy. After all I finished my program at Georgetown. I am considering retaking one class, but overall feel a sense of accomplishment for the last year. This week has been filled with getting one of my best friends married off in style and some sanity (face it Robin, neither of us have been able to claim that one in a long time!) I did some of the ritual maid-of-honor duties which I shared with Christie, Robin's sister. I welcomed Joshua very nicely to the family and then threatened his life if he ever hurt Robin. All in a days work. The flowers were immensely lovely as usual from my mother and Merissa. While I have little desire to join the family business, it is always fun to see a project that large come to completion.

In lew of writing, any other events over the last two weeks can be told in the following pictures as well as the videos. Enjoy.

Saturday, May 3, 2008

You'd think

You would think that I would want to talk about my biochem final today. Which I most certainly did not ace (Malate has only a "6 degrees of separation" kind of relationship with Pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), but the confusion came because oxaloacetate can be pulled out for conversion by PEP carboxylase to become phosphenol pyruvate then gluconeogenesis. No where close to PPP. Yeah, ridiculously obvious mistake. Actually, it is, that is what is so depressing). But I am hopeful (and distinctly prayerfully pleading) that I could still pull out a pretty good grade.

Ok, so I did want to talk about it. But moving on. Today I wandered over to the Cathedral for a lookie-loo at fair going on. It was the May Flower Fair, or something like that. The Cathedral has this nursery on site, which I must admit to never having been to until today. So the lawn was covered in booths, selling handy crafts, fair trade clothing and carvings from India and Africa,cinnamon almonds. The further I wandered in, the larger it all became. There were teriyaki chicken places, a funnel cake booth (still bummed I didn't have any cash for that) and even a small Ferris wheel (really, REALLY small). So here is small snapshot of my day.
This is the Bishops's garden, actually the last stop on my tour. I feel really silly for not having explored this part of my neighborhood further earlier.
This was the accompaniment for the first part of the booths. The sound of the rides provided the soundtrack for the backside.
Because no acre of D.C. would be complete without the Civil War horse statue (This particular one actually needs greater research to confirm that it is indeed, commemorating the Civil War.)
The longest line to any attraction at the fair was to the ice cream truck.
This was actually the nursery that is an everyday business on the Cathedral grounds. Thought these blown glass globes looked like the old glass buoys my Nana collected. Plus, they were just beautiful.
For some reason Teddy Bear Vine just didn't seem to be an appropriate moniker for this plant.
So starts are joking tour of "What every Cathedral needs." Every good cathedral needs many monks praying. These are the back up guys, ready to rush out when the other guys get sent off to different homes. Unfortunately for them, the birds have found a permanent home for themselves near as well.Every good cathedral needs gargoyles. In this case, these grimacing bad guys seem closer to a kiss than warding off evil.
This Cathedral has a reminder that there was a fallen angel, one with feet of clay.
Ok, this seems a little more Hogwarts than Hunchback to me, but hey, whatever.
All the following (except the last) are in the Bishop's garden. This was particularly touching to me. It is plaque dedicating a bench to a deceased woman, from her parents.
The alum were are at their peak. It was lovely. I found this an emotive piece, a portrayal of the Prodigal Son. I love attempting to make cool shots of pathways. I just keep trying to get them right and make them interesting, to actually show some of what I see. Didn't happen this time . . . but not bad.
I could see that I had just missed the peak of the garden's blossoms. Despite that and the people everywhere, I truly enjoyed it. I would love to spend some more peaceful time there.

And because I always seem to end adventures on the sublime. . . I noticed this truck as I was leaving
Ever wanted to rob an ATM but didn't know how to arrange transportation from the caper . . . here you are. I am assuming this is likely the most ridiculously security modified van, and bears no actual resemblance to its other assembly line fellows in its resistance to theft, however it still seems rather disconcerting. Maybe its just me.