One thing I've noticed is almost a general trait among New Yorkers- their keen ability to be what you might call "active listeners", if you were nicer than I am. I can't stand this about New Yorkers.
Let me explain- it is next to impossible to tell a New Yorker anything longer than three words without him/her trying to figure out what the rest of the story is. "So I haven't finished this project yet-" "oh, because it is pretty complicated and confusing?" "um, no, I just had to work on something else". I have met a few people, natives even, who don't succumb to this weird east coast phenomenon, but by and large it is definitely an epidemic.
I think it has something to do with the general feeling of hurriedness here. I even get sucked in- I could have an hour to get to my train in Grand Central, but as soon as I step foot in that building, I become just another part of the throngs who are hurrying to their tracks- and the minute anyone is going too slow in front of me, it's like a personal insult, and sighs and sidestepping have become a natural part of my daily routine.
Maybe I am a slow talker or maybe I have really boring things to say, but I have experienced this weird tendency in many New Yorkers time and time again. I think I have actually agreed with the incorrect conclusion they come up with on more than one occasion, just out of a feeling of sheer absurdity. "So then I went back to my apartment-" "And a giant alien was waiting at the front door, with a message from Mars saying that you were to be taken back as a human specimen, but then when you got there the Martian king fell in love with you and married you and you had seven Martian babies, three of whom grew up to be successful Martian attorneys, who then argued your case to return to Earth, and then you did, only to find that only ten minutes had passed in Earth time?" "Yes, that's exactly what happened. How did you know?"
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Thursday, April 10, 2008
as we move towards the objective
Oh blog, my friend that I have neglected. Where to begin. How to explain. It's not you; it's me.
Well, it seems that every year I have warm fuzzy things to say about the joyful struggle of Lent, and I was not going to let these 40 (or so) days pass without throwing a little nugget of my spiritual journey out there for my friends to chew on. Plus, I thought it was about time to make another past-due entry that begins with some inane joke about how this entry is really past due.
I guess this Lent has been somewhat different for me personally, considering that I began it by making a decision to leave my job. I'm certain that it was the right decision, and it was most definitely inevitable, but the limbo that comes with leaving a job without the safety net of another one (especially when you're supporting a doctoral student) can be a little unnerving, needless to say. However, we make ends meet for now through my being the temp, aka the girl who does the stuff no one else wanted to do/got around to doing. Eh, it's money, and experience.
This year, it seems like the Lenten period has really afforded me some sort of tangible growth as a person. I feel more peace, and I feel more capable of coping. It's been a time of loss, and uncertainty, and struggle (although I know that my loss and uncertainty and struggle is nothing compared to what others may face)- but I feel more grounded, like I can take a step back and look at everything a little more clearly. I'm thankful for that.
I just (finally) read C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity, and am now trudging my way through some monastic literature. And so I leave you with something that strikes home for me this Lenten season:
In Scripture are the words 'I humbled myself, and the Lord hastened to rescue me' (Psalm 114:6); and these words are there instead of 'I have fasted', 'I have kept vigil', 'I lay down on the bare earth'.
St. John Climacus
Well, it seems that every year I have warm fuzzy things to say about the joyful struggle of Lent, and I was not going to let these 40 (or so) days pass without throwing a little nugget of my spiritual journey out there for my friends to chew on. Plus, I thought it was about time to make another past-due entry that begins with some inane joke about how this entry is really past due.
I guess this Lent has been somewhat different for me personally, considering that I began it by making a decision to leave my job. I'm certain that it was the right decision, and it was most definitely inevitable, but the limbo that comes with leaving a job without the safety net of another one (especially when you're supporting a doctoral student) can be a little unnerving, needless to say. However, we make ends meet for now through my being the temp, aka the girl who does the stuff no one else wanted to do/got around to doing. Eh, it's money, and experience.
This year, it seems like the Lenten period has really afforded me some sort of tangible growth as a person. I feel more peace, and I feel more capable of coping. It's been a time of loss, and uncertainty, and struggle (although I know that my loss and uncertainty and struggle is nothing compared to what others may face)- but I feel more grounded, like I can take a step back and look at everything a little more clearly. I'm thankful for that.
I just (finally) read C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity, and am now trudging my way through some monastic literature. And so I leave you with something that strikes home for me this Lenten season:
In Scripture are the words 'I humbled myself, and the Lord hastened to rescue me' (Psalm 114:6); and these words are there instead of 'I have fasted', 'I have kept vigil', 'I lay down on the bare earth'.
St. John Climacus
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Sonia Sophia
People all over the world (quite literally) have been mourning the loss of a wonderful young woman since last Wednesday. I hardly got to know her, but she was the wife of a dear friend of Mike's. I had always taken it for granted that sometime soon we'd make it to Boston to visit her and her husband, and I would finally have the chance to talk to her outside the realm of some official event like a graduation or wedding. Instead, we went to Boston on Sunday for her wake and funeral.
A few people asked me today about the funeral, and I couldn't help but smile and tell them how beautiful it was, which just sums up exactly who this woman Sonia was. I am not exaggerating because of any sentimentality: I have never witnessed such an incredible showing of love and togetherness, and such a huge impact coming from the life of one human being. The church was overflowing, and someone estimated that there were about 600 people in attendance, including 4 bishops and probably 50 clergymen. I learned too late that Sonia started an Orthodox preschool at the age of 21, something I would have loved to talk to her about. It has been in the back of my mind for several years now that someday it would be wonderful to start a parochial school, but I always thought "I will get my Masters first" or "no one would take me seriously until I am older". I was so humbled to find out that Sonia accomplished this feat years ago. And in so many other ways, the story of her life inspired me, and I believe will continue to inspire me. As heartbreaking as it was for the throngs of people to say goodbye to her, I don't think that one person could have left that service without thinking about how they could try to live up to the kind of person that Sonia was, or without the comfort of knowing that she is now enjoying something more beautiful than any of us can imagine.
There are many indications that Sonia knew that her time here would soon be up, and I, as well as many others, were bowled over by the implications of this- I keep thinking that she just really had an ear for God's voice, and probably understood things in a way that many of us only wish we could. Originally I had begun this post with my own complaining and petty cares, and it was nice, and appropriate, to go back and cut all of it out without a second thought. Sonia's life really has affected me in a profound way, and probably will for a long time to come. Talk about gaining some perspective.
A few people asked me today about the funeral, and I couldn't help but smile and tell them how beautiful it was, which just sums up exactly who this woman Sonia was. I am not exaggerating because of any sentimentality: I have never witnessed such an incredible showing of love and togetherness, and such a huge impact coming from the life of one human being. The church was overflowing, and someone estimated that there were about 600 people in attendance, including 4 bishops and probably 50 clergymen. I learned too late that Sonia started an Orthodox preschool at the age of 21, something I would have loved to talk to her about. It has been in the back of my mind for several years now that someday it would be wonderful to start a parochial school, but I always thought "I will get my Masters first" or "no one would take me seriously until I am older". I was so humbled to find out that Sonia accomplished this feat years ago. And in so many other ways, the story of her life inspired me, and I believe will continue to inspire me. As heartbreaking as it was for the throngs of people to say goodbye to her, I don't think that one person could have left that service without thinking about how they could try to live up to the kind of person that Sonia was, or without the comfort of knowing that she is now enjoying something more beautiful than any of us can imagine.
There are many indications that Sonia knew that her time here would soon be up, and I, as well as many others, were bowled over by the implications of this- I keep thinking that she just really had an ear for God's voice, and probably understood things in a way that many of us only wish we could. Originally I had begun this post with my own complaining and petty cares, and it was nice, and appropriate, to go back and cut all of it out without a second thought. Sonia's life really has affected me in a profound way, and probably will for a long time to come. Talk about gaining some perspective.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
are you there, blog? it's me, erin
The last week or so has caused me to realize how grateful I am that my husband is NOT a high-powered workaholic executive. Sure, the convertible might be nice, but it turns out that having a husband who’s around is nicer. I am sure of this by my experience of the opposite.
This week is finals week for Mike- finals week of his first semester in a doctoral program. I’m not sure I remember what he looks like. No, I am exaggerating completely- but the long hours of staring at a computer screen/giant Greek lexicon (nerd) until he nearly goes blind have been a great reminder to me of how great it is to come home and hang out with him, and talk about our day, make some food together, whatever. I am so glad that this finals week time is not the norm. Of course, the semester of comps is going to be a different story. Possibly a much worse story. I am taking applications for Husband Substitute, a position that will need to be filled in the spring of 2009 (and by that I mean applications from girl friends, so stop judging me).
What is most frustrating is that I can’t do very much to help Mike. Back when we were both in college, at least I could study along with him, and commiseration is a help, right? Plus, we were studying basically the same subjects and working on many of the same projects. But now, I don’t know how much help I can be when it comes to a doctoral paper on the kingship of Saul and how it relates to ancient Judaism versus modern Christianity- at least beyond the realm of some paltry grammar edits. Now, I feel that all I can do is offer to make him some food, or put his laundry away. (Although this may be something that many dutiful wives already do for their husbands, we have a different setup- all the clean laundry gets dumped on the bed, and then we dig out our own and put it away. I would venture that this is a good system, since I can earn some brownie points just by putting away his laundry when he’s busy.)
It’s definitely a tough week for him, and I am trying to keep busy as well, just to promote the whole “aura” of productivity. But I will be none too pleased to celebrate with him when it’s done- at least until the end of April, when round two begins.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
carry on my wayward son
It's been a long time since I've considered myself a fan of South Park, but I happened to catch last week's episode, and was so glad that I did. I laughed so hard that I was crying. Really. Tears coming out of my eyes. For anyone who has played Guitar Hero, or has lived in Colorado, this is hilarious. But even for those who have done neither, Thad Jarvis is still incredibly funny.
Check it out...go to 7:53 if you just want to see Thad-
Thad Jarvis is my hero.
Check it out...go to 7:53 if you just want to see Thad-
Thad Jarvis is my hero.
Monday, November 05, 2007
hello again!
Wow, it has been a fragillion years since I wrote anything on my blog. I guess the main reason is that I have taken a lesson from other bloggers, and refrained from blogging about the thing that I would be most likely to blog about, which is also the thing that is the most dangerous thing to blog about. And when you have negative things to say in a blog about this thing, usually it's better to just keep your dang mouth shut. And that's that. Hope you know what I'm talking about. And no, it's not my marriage. My marriage is real good.
Beyond the negative comments that I will not be making, all is relatively well. We are definitely getting into our routine, and getting used to being New Yorkers again (or at least living among the New Yorkers). I think our social lives have totally benefited from being out here- it feels like we've already made (or reconnected with) a lot more friends than we made in our two years in Wyoming- although we do miss the Wyoming group a whole lot. And how fun is it to get together with friends to watch the Rockies get pummeled from a pub in the Bronx, or try authentic kielbasa at a Bohemian beer garden, or smoke sheesha in Little Egypt? Well, I will tell you, it is very fun.
One thing that I looked forward to so much was a public transportation commute, which affords built-in reading time. So now I can think back on the handful of books that I've been able to read in the last couple of months and provide some recommendations. Number one among all of them: What is the What, by Dave Eggers. I picked up this book almost in disappointment, as I was looking for Eggers' more popular book, A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius. But What is the What is one of the most beautiful pieces of literature I have ever laid eyes upon- I recommend it wholeheartedly. It actually made me cry! Well, that's usually not difficult, but these were a different kind of tears. Not like the "I've come to know this character so well and now I feel emotionally attached when I find out that they have a terminal disease" tears, but the "society, or the human experience in general, is just so beautiful and disgusting all at the same time" tears. Please, read this book. I'm now reading AHWOSG (as it is lovingly referred to at the top of each page), and so far it is good also. I can't even think of what else I've read lately. That's just how good What is the What is.
My mood has changed entirely with the long-awaited entrance of fall. It seems like it took forever here, and I was very grumpy because of the heat and humidity, but all has since become right in the world. I think I have seasonal affective disorder, only in an opposite way than what one might usually think. (Is it an accident that the acronym for that is S.A.D.?)
The ways in which people happen upon my blog are more than a little amusing to me. Here are some phrases that people have searched for on Google that have brought them to my site: "super cool wow", "facebook statuses", "lahm bajine", "victor garber".
It is my dream to start a knitting blog someday. The google phrases that would bring people to it would probably be a little more run-of-the-mill, although I think I'd like to design a "Victor Garber" scarf, just in case.
Beyond the negative comments that I will not be making, all is relatively well. We are definitely getting into our routine, and getting used to being New Yorkers again (or at least living among the New Yorkers). I think our social lives have totally benefited from being out here- it feels like we've already made (or reconnected with) a lot more friends than we made in our two years in Wyoming- although we do miss the Wyoming group a whole lot. And how fun is it to get together with friends to watch the Rockies get pummeled from a pub in the Bronx, or try authentic kielbasa at a Bohemian beer garden, or smoke sheesha in Little Egypt? Well, I will tell you, it is very fun.
One thing that I looked forward to so much was a public transportation commute, which affords built-in reading time. So now I can think back on the handful of books that I've been able to read in the last couple of months and provide some recommendations. Number one among all of them: What is the What, by Dave Eggers. I picked up this book almost in disappointment, as I was looking for Eggers' more popular book, A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius. But What is the What is one of the most beautiful pieces of literature I have ever laid eyes upon- I recommend it wholeheartedly. It actually made me cry! Well, that's usually not difficult, but these were a different kind of tears. Not like the "I've come to know this character so well and now I feel emotionally attached when I find out that they have a terminal disease" tears, but the "society, or the human experience in general, is just so beautiful and disgusting all at the same time" tears. Please, read this book. I'm now reading AHWOSG (as it is lovingly referred to at the top of each page), and so far it is good also. I can't even think of what else I've read lately. That's just how good What is the What is.
My mood has changed entirely with the long-awaited entrance of fall. It seems like it took forever here, and I was very grumpy because of the heat and humidity, but all has since become right in the world. I think I have seasonal affective disorder, only in an opposite way than what one might usually think. (Is it an accident that the acronym for that is S.A.D.?)
The ways in which people happen upon my blog are more than a little amusing to me. Here are some phrases that people have searched for on Google that have brought them to my site: "super cool wow", "facebook statuses", "lahm bajine", "victor garber".
It is my dream to start a knitting blog someday. The google phrases that would bring people to it would probably be a little more run-of-the-mill, although I think I'd like to design a "Victor Garber" scarf, just in case.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
looking for my home
There have been so many blogworthy tidbits in my life recently, but not having the chance to get them down in an actual blog in a reasonable amount of time has caused me to forget most of them. I only know that they were there at one time.
The coming of the fall season has put me in a generally joyful mood- Mike and I have decided that October is our favorite month, for the following reasons: 1)the weather begins to cool off, and sometimes there is rain, and leaves are falling; and 2) the holidays are getting closer and closer, but not so close that they will be gone too soon. This second reason is especially exciting when there is the anticipation of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rockefeller tree, the shop windows full of holiday cheer, the Empire State Building standing tall amidst a light sprinkling of snowflakes.
Can you tell that I'm feeling wistful this evening?
There are certain things about this new life that have been bigger adjustments than others. I'm really trying to stay optimistic and feel grateful for the opportunities we've been given, but I'm having a hard time settling into these next four or five years that will be relatively unchanging, at least in the basic ways. Every time someone hears that we've moved from Laramie, Wyoming to Westchester, New York, their eyes get wide, and they say "woooow". But really, they have no idea. It's not just the climate and population density that are different, it's the attitude and the entire way of life. I knew that New York could change a person, but sometimes it still scares me how quickly I settled into the selfishness and lack of concern for anyone around me.
I'm not exactly saying I miss Laramie. I've just got two extremes going on here. Hopefully some day I will adjust, and then my blogs can be about some other subject.
The coming of the fall season has put me in a generally joyful mood- Mike and I have decided that October is our favorite month, for the following reasons: 1)the weather begins to cool off, and sometimes there is rain, and leaves are falling; and 2) the holidays are getting closer and closer, but not so close that they will be gone too soon. This second reason is especially exciting when there is the anticipation of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Rockefeller tree, the shop windows full of holiday cheer, the Empire State Building standing tall amidst a light sprinkling of snowflakes.
Can you tell that I'm feeling wistful this evening?
There are certain things about this new life that have been bigger adjustments than others. I'm really trying to stay optimistic and feel grateful for the opportunities we've been given, but I'm having a hard time settling into these next four or five years that will be relatively unchanging, at least in the basic ways. Every time someone hears that we've moved from Laramie, Wyoming to Westchester, New York, their eyes get wide, and they say "woooow". But really, they have no idea. It's not just the climate and population density that are different, it's the attitude and the entire way of life. I knew that New York could change a person, but sometimes it still scares me how quickly I settled into the selfishness and lack of concern for anyone around me.
I'm not exactly saying I miss Laramie. I've just got two extremes going on here. Hopefully some day I will adjust, and then my blogs can be about some other subject.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
issues
One of the most difficult things about being anywhere new is the prospect of making new friends. At least for me. I wasn't a military kid or anything like that, so I never had to adapt to the life of re-creating my circle of friends every few years, and from the time I was 6 years old, I lived in the same house and grew up with the same general friends and classmates. Plus, I can be painfully introverted sometimes. I tend to enjoy my time alone quite a bit, but there are definitely times when I just want to call up a girlfriend and hang out.
Lucky for us, Mike is much more determined to actively establish relationships (we would have never started dating otherwise, considering that he thought that I hated him when we first met and got to talking). And lucky for us, some of our past NY acquaintances are still in the area and have made our adjustment much easier.
We are about a 5 minute drive from the seminary that Mike got his Master's from, so we have been over there several times for services, and just to hang out. Last night I went to a women's group that meets on campus, and was really happy to find a group of very welcoming women whose company will probably become the highlight of my week. But I have been actively observing myself in this capacity, and comparing my own actions to Mike's and to others', and I really think I have got some serious self esteem issues. I've noticed that I tend to automatically assume that I am bothering someone if I try to spend time with them or get to know them, and usually I don't initiate any contact with people I don't know very well, thinking that there's little chance that they'd want to spend time with me. When I say this, I realize that it's pretty absurd and basically debilitating, but I just can't get past that nagging feeling.
I can say that all of the closest relationships in my life have been the result of either proximity, or because the other person didn't put up with my weirdness and insisted on getting to know me. This is definitely something I need to get over, and I am thankful that I'm married to someone who is really completely opposite in this regard.
Even just sticking with this women's group and telling myself that I can be a valuable part of it and probably make some great friends will be a good step in the right direction. It's so crazy that I have to talk myself through something like that, but I guess we all have our quirks.
Lucky for us, Mike is much more determined to actively establish relationships (we would have never started dating otherwise, considering that he thought that I hated him when we first met and got to talking). And lucky for us, some of our past NY acquaintances are still in the area and have made our adjustment much easier.
We are about a 5 minute drive from the seminary that Mike got his Master's from, so we have been over there several times for services, and just to hang out. Last night I went to a women's group that meets on campus, and was really happy to find a group of very welcoming women whose company will probably become the highlight of my week. But I have been actively observing myself in this capacity, and comparing my own actions to Mike's and to others', and I really think I have got some serious self esteem issues. I've noticed that I tend to automatically assume that I am bothering someone if I try to spend time with them or get to know them, and usually I don't initiate any contact with people I don't know very well, thinking that there's little chance that they'd want to spend time with me. When I say this, I realize that it's pretty absurd and basically debilitating, but I just can't get past that nagging feeling.
I can say that all of the closest relationships in my life have been the result of either proximity, or because the other person didn't put up with my weirdness and insisted on getting to know me. This is definitely something I need to get over, and I am thankful that I'm married to someone who is really completely opposite in this regard.
Even just sticking with this women's group and telling myself that I can be a valuable part of it and probably make some great friends will be a good step in the right direction. It's so crazy that I have to talk myself through something like that, but I guess we all have our quirks.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
life as a celebrity stalker/scarf-maker
Although we do not yet have a couch or a bed frame, I am beginning to feel fairly settled here in New York. Apartment is good. Job is good. Things are generally good. And one of my favorite things about New York City happened, 3 times, on Friday. No, I did not get mugged 3 times. And no, I did not eat 3 Coney Island hot dogs. I had 3 celebrity spottings- in one day. In about 3 hours, actually.
The first spotting was somewhat orchestrated, because I knew that there was a major fashion show going on in Bryant Park all week, and Bryant Park is only 2 blocks from my office, and I stumbled upon the show during my lunch break on Thursday. So, like many other people, I hung around outside the main entrance to the show towards the end of my break, first on Thursday, then again on Friday. On Thursday, no one really caught my eye, although I think I may have seen David Spade's brother, who is Andy Spade, who created the fashion line Jack Spade, who is also married to Kate Spade, the famous fashion designer. (It's amazing what a little Google research can reveal.) So anyway, I went back to the show on Friday just in case something interesting happened. And boy, did it ever. I was only there for about 5 minutes when a black Suburban pulled up, and out comes Carrie Underwood, as I live and breathe. Ok, so she's not exactly the number one celebrity I would have chosen to spot, but it was cool nonetheless. And hilarious to see the reactions of those around me- this 10-year-old nearby was nearly convulsing, and a guy next to me, who was about my age, couldn't wait to tell his friend Tyler, who apparently was going to go #2 in his pants when he heard who he just saw. Then there was the lady behind me, who had no clue who Carrie Underwood was, and when she found out, couldn't figure out why everyone was making such a fuss. Funniest response of all. My impression- I'm not much of a fan of hers anyway, and I didn't like that she was smacking her gum, or that she had about 2 inches of makeup on her face. But as always, the spotting itself was pretty exciting.
Spotting #2: on my way to Grand Central to go home that afternoon, I was walking up Park Avenue, which I usually avoid because for some reason that route just annoys me. And I was even more annoyed when I saw a huge crowd that was going to slow me down- until I realized that the huge crowd was watching a movie scene being filmed. Starring none other than Kelly Preston and Robin Williams. I was about 10 feet from Robin Williams, the best part of which was the fact that he is a great character in one of the greatest movies of all time, Good Will Hunting. I tried to take a picture on my cell phone, but was very rudely pushed aside by some lady who said I was going to ruin the shot. Yeah, try filming a scene for a movie one block from Grand Central at 4:30 on a Friday, and see how well it goes.
I'd have to say it was a good start to the weekend, especially after 3 days in a new job that seems to be going pretty well. Apparently, I really like routine, and I don't think I'm too good at creating it for myself, because I have felt so much more purposeful since I started the job. I have a lot less free time, and yet I'm getting so much more done. Go figure.
I also taught myself how to knit, and I am loving it. Just found out that the oldest yarn store in Manhattan is 9 blocks from my office. Loving that. I love to crochet, but knitting is much more versatile and will allow me to make things that are actually wear-able. And I picked up this book (Stitch n Bitch, which I highly recommend to anyone who's interested), that has an introduction about how knitting goes through ups and downs in popularity, but has always been a way to create things and to be fairly resourceful (I now love to look at sweaters in stores and consider the possibility of making them myself). I love thinking about how this craft connects me with centuries of women, and how it makes me feel like I can be more self-sufficient than I had ever thought. Plus, it's just a great way to unwind. I'm working on a practice scarf right now, but socks and sweaters, here I come! All in all, life is being pretty good to me right now.
The first spotting was somewhat orchestrated, because I knew that there was a major fashion show going on in Bryant Park all week, and Bryant Park is only 2 blocks from my office, and I stumbled upon the show during my lunch break on Thursday. So, like many other people, I hung around outside the main entrance to the show towards the end of my break, first on Thursday, then again on Friday. On Thursday, no one really caught my eye, although I think I may have seen David Spade's brother, who is Andy Spade, who created the fashion line Jack Spade, who is also married to Kate Spade, the famous fashion designer. (It's amazing what a little Google research can reveal.) So anyway, I went back to the show on Friday just in case something interesting happened. And boy, did it ever. I was only there for about 5 minutes when a black Suburban pulled up, and out comes Carrie Underwood, as I live and breathe. Ok, so she's not exactly the number one celebrity I would have chosen to spot, but it was cool nonetheless. And hilarious to see the reactions of those around me- this 10-year-old nearby was nearly convulsing, and a guy next to me, who was about my age, couldn't wait to tell his friend Tyler, who apparently was going to go #2 in his pants when he heard who he just saw. Then there was the lady behind me, who had no clue who Carrie Underwood was, and when she found out, couldn't figure out why everyone was making such a fuss. Funniest response of all. My impression- I'm not much of a fan of hers anyway, and I didn't like that she was smacking her gum, or that she had about 2 inches of makeup on her face. But as always, the spotting itself was pretty exciting.
Spotting #2: on my way to Grand Central to go home that afternoon, I was walking up Park Avenue, which I usually avoid because for some reason that route just annoys me. And I was even more annoyed when I saw a huge crowd that was going to slow me down- until I realized that the huge crowd was watching a movie scene being filmed. Starring none other than Kelly Preston and Robin Williams. I was about 10 feet from Robin Williams, the best part of which was the fact that he is a great character in one of the greatest movies of all time, Good Will Hunting. I tried to take a picture on my cell phone, but was very rudely pushed aside by some lady who said I was going to ruin the shot. Yeah, try filming a scene for a movie one block from Grand Central at 4:30 on a Friday, and see how well it goes.
I'd have to say it was a good start to the weekend, especially after 3 days in a new job that seems to be going pretty well. Apparently, I really like routine, and I don't think I'm too good at creating it for myself, because I have felt so much more purposeful since I started the job. I have a lot less free time, and yet I'm getting so much more done. Go figure.
I also taught myself how to knit, and I am loving it. Just found out that the oldest yarn store in Manhattan is 9 blocks from my office. Loving that. I love to crochet, but knitting is much more versatile and will allow me to make things that are actually wear-able. And I picked up this book (Stitch n Bitch, which I highly recommend to anyone who's interested), that has an introduction about how knitting goes through ups and downs in popularity, but has always been a way to create things and to be fairly resourceful (I now love to look at sweaters in stores and consider the possibility of making them myself). I love thinking about how this craft connects me with centuries of women, and how it makes me feel like I can be more self-sufficient than I had ever thought. Plus, it's just a great way to unwind. I'm working on a practice scarf right now, but socks and sweaters, here I come! All in all, life is being pretty good to me right now.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
entirely random and arbitrary
Last night, similar to the last many nights, it took me forever to get to sleep. And in my sleeplessness, for some unknown reason I was recalling a conversation with Mike recently when we were trying to figure out if there were any New Jersey sports teams. Because I couldn't sleep, and because McSweeney's lists have to be one of the best ways to waste some time, here is what I came up with last night:
The Top 5 Failed New Jersey Sports Team Names:
The Hackensack Hackey Sackers
The Manahawkin Mohawks
The Newark Guys With Too Much Gold Jewelry
The Atlantic City Gamble-aholics
The Jersey City Orthodox Jews
Anyway...I don't know what it is, but it's something. Some of my other recent, Big Apple-inspired musings:
Men cannot achieve even an inkling of masculinity when they wear form-fitting capri pants. And maybe they don't want to.
It is absolutely not ok that 80's fashion is back in style. And I use the word fashion loosely. Any era that I lived through should not yet be making a comeback. And in the case of the 80's, never would be too soon. On the other hand, 50's-era dresses are completely welcome.
Loudly discussing the reactions of your bowels during a recent vacation is certainly not appropriate train etiquette.
In other news, I have a job now, and I start next week. Praise the Lord from whom all blessings flow.
The Top 5 Failed New Jersey Sports Team Names:
The Hackensack Hackey Sackers
The Manahawkin Mohawks
The Newark Guys With Too Much Gold Jewelry
The Atlantic City Gamble-aholics
The Jersey City Orthodox Jews
Anyway...I don't know what it is, but it's something. Some of my other recent, Big Apple-inspired musings:
Men cannot achieve even an inkling of masculinity when they wear form-fitting capri pants. And maybe they don't want to.
It is absolutely not ok that 80's fashion is back in style. And I use the word fashion loosely. Any era that I lived through should not yet be making a comeback. And in the case of the 80's, never would be too soon. On the other hand, 50's-era dresses are completely welcome.
Loudly discussing the reactions of your bowels during a recent vacation is certainly not appropriate train etiquette.
In other news, I have a job now, and I start next week. Praise the Lord from whom all blessings flow.
Monday, August 20, 2007
to us
Tomorrow marks two years since Mike and I got married, and it's nice to be making plans that involve Central Park and maybe a Broadway show, because have I mentioned yet that we moved back to New York? And that New York is great? Yeah, I think I might have mentioned that.
And in honor of two years, two years that have been really great, and comfortable, and educational, and genuinely good, I would like to relate something that I have discovered about myself. Something that makes me laugh a little bit. I told this to Mike recently, and I think it's sadly true- I have become a pansy since getting married. I just can't put it any other way.
Before we got married, even when we were dating, and of course when I was single, I was pretty good at being independent, I think. I did a pretty good job of adjusting to whatever city I was living in, of moving myself around and getting to know the lay of the land, and being by myself on occasion, and sleeping in bed by myself, and all that comes with being on your own. I found an apartment in Brooklyn on my own, I drove, and pulled over to look at maps, and drove some more, I was fine being in a house by myself late at night, etc, etc. But now, now is very very different. Of course I know that I could still do all of those things, but I really don't want to ever find an apartment on my own again, I hate sleeping in bed by myself, and I get a little nervous being alone at night.
But if being a pansy means being happily married, then I'll take it. All of the give and take that comes with marriage is certainly very different than anything I ever knew before, and people can explain it to you all they want and it won't sink in until you know it yourself. I think it gives me a completely different sense of self. I'm not myself anymore without Mike as part of the equation. And that's not to say that I lost my identity, or did something that would make a feminist cringe, I just became part of something bigger.
I love that we have inside jokes, I love that we can be silly together, I love that he is my family, I love that it's difficult sometimes, I love that two years has changed us and also kept us so much the same, and most of all, God-willing, I love that we have so much more to look forward to.
And in honor of two years, two years that have been really great, and comfortable, and educational, and genuinely good, I would like to relate something that I have discovered about myself. Something that makes me laugh a little bit. I told this to Mike recently, and I think it's sadly true- I have become a pansy since getting married. I just can't put it any other way.
Before we got married, even when we were dating, and of course when I was single, I was pretty good at being independent, I think. I did a pretty good job of adjusting to whatever city I was living in, of moving myself around and getting to know the lay of the land, and being by myself on occasion, and sleeping in bed by myself, and all that comes with being on your own. I found an apartment in Brooklyn on my own, I drove, and pulled over to look at maps, and drove some more, I was fine being in a house by myself late at night, etc, etc. But now, now is very very different. Of course I know that I could still do all of those things, but I really don't want to ever find an apartment on my own again, I hate sleeping in bed by myself, and I get a little nervous being alone at night.
But if being a pansy means being happily married, then I'll take it. All of the give and take that comes with marriage is certainly very different than anything I ever knew before, and people can explain it to you all they want and it won't sink in until you know it yourself. I think it gives me a completely different sense of self. I'm not myself anymore without Mike as part of the equation. And that's not to say that I lost my identity, or did something that would make a feminist cringe, I just became part of something bigger.
I love that we have inside jokes, I love that we can be silly together, I love that he is my family, I love that it's difficult sometimes, I love that two years has changed us and also kept us so much the same, and most of all, God-willing, I love that we have so much more to look forward to.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
start spreading the news
Finally on the other side of all the anticipation. Well, at least most of it. We've been back in New York for an entire week now, and, all things considered, life is good. After a long 3.5-day trek from Laramie, Wyoming to Tuckahoe, New York, with a few friends along the way and a jam-packed little Honda Civic, we pulled up to our building about midday last Saturday.
I almost feel like we live in San Francisco- the walk down to the building's door is like a 75 degree angle. Should be interesting come mid-winter. But the area itself is great- I had forgotten how great, even though I came over here several times when we last lived in New York.
Across the street is a tiny grocery store, across the other street are a laundromat, a bank, and a Carvel ice cream, and on the next block are Starbucks and the train station. You could not ask for a better location. The library is less than 5 minutes away, and we've got Chinese, Mexican, Japanese, Italian, Indian, and Thai food all within a quarter-mile radius. Plus two diners. And a pizzeria. Holy cow.
The apartment itself is pretty great, too. Lucky for us, the last tenant was pretty bad, so we get new carpet, new kitchen tile, new varnish on the doors, etc. Moving in pretty much sucked, so combining our feelings of not wanting to do that again anytime soon, and our love for this place, it looks like we could be here for a while. Which is a really great feeling.
Moving was made much less easy when it became apparent that I had a cold and started to really feel terrible. All I wanted to do was sit in front of the air conditioner and not move for a very long time, which was pretty difficult considering that for a while there was nowhere to sit, and being anywhere further than 3 feet from the AC unit was pretty much hell. But the cold is over, the apartment temperature is much better, and we have a few pieces of furniture- which means that I can finally say that I really do like where we're at.
But our hurdles are by no means over. I still have not found a job, even though I thought that I had one in the bag until I got an email- addressed to Casey- saying that they had chosen someone else. Professionalism at its best. I have a few possibilities to pursue, and I am really hoping that maybe next week at this time I'll be getting ready for my first day somewhere- but who's to say. In the meantime we're holding off on buying more furniture, and I continue to remind myself that this part is always the scariest, until you look back from a steadier place and shake your head at how anxious you've been.
A few reviews that I can make since the start of our adventure: The Secret Life of Bees is a wonderful book, and it was a great cross-country read. The sort-of Catholic religion that was portrayed in the book, and a 14-year-old's take on it, was really interesting and amusing. We also watched the movie Shooter last week, and although this wasn't exactly my pick, and I wasn't expecting it to be a masterpiece, it turned out to be worse than anything I could have anticipated. Beyond being a pretty crappy and cliched action movie, it turned the main character into a hero for having the same kind of intentions as a terrorist, and it really bothered me to see that glorified under the guise of patriotism and American kitsch. Two thumbs down from Erin. However, Bourne Ultimatum made up for all of my negative feelings towards action films, because it was...awesome. And as one wise woman said last night, it's not difficult watching Matt Damon either. I was always just a lukewarm fan of the movies, but this one tied everything together so well and so cleverly that I just want to go back and watch all 3. Lucky for me, my husband has always been a fan, and I'm sure we'll have the full collection of movies in our possession...and watch them many, many times.
I almost feel like we live in San Francisco- the walk down to the building's door is like a 75 degree angle. Should be interesting come mid-winter. But the area itself is great- I had forgotten how great, even though I came over here several times when we last lived in New York.
Across the street is a tiny grocery store, across the other street are a laundromat, a bank, and a Carvel ice cream, and on the next block are Starbucks and the train station. You could not ask for a better location. The library is less than 5 minutes away, and we've got Chinese, Mexican, Japanese, Italian, Indian, and Thai food all within a quarter-mile radius. Plus two diners. And a pizzeria. Holy cow.
The apartment itself is pretty great, too. Lucky for us, the last tenant was pretty bad, so we get new carpet, new kitchen tile, new varnish on the doors, etc. Moving in pretty much sucked, so combining our feelings of not wanting to do that again anytime soon, and our love for this place, it looks like we could be here for a while. Which is a really great feeling.
Moving was made much less easy when it became apparent that I had a cold and started to really feel terrible. All I wanted to do was sit in front of the air conditioner and not move for a very long time, which was pretty difficult considering that for a while there was nowhere to sit, and being anywhere further than 3 feet from the AC unit was pretty much hell. But the cold is over, the apartment temperature is much better, and we have a few pieces of furniture- which means that I can finally say that I really do like where we're at.
But our hurdles are by no means over. I still have not found a job, even though I thought that I had one in the bag until I got an email- addressed to Casey- saying that they had chosen someone else. Professionalism at its best. I have a few possibilities to pursue, and I am really hoping that maybe next week at this time I'll be getting ready for my first day somewhere- but who's to say. In the meantime we're holding off on buying more furniture, and I continue to remind myself that this part is always the scariest, until you look back from a steadier place and shake your head at how anxious you've been.
A few reviews that I can make since the start of our adventure: The Secret Life of Bees is a wonderful book, and it was a great cross-country read. The sort-of Catholic religion that was portrayed in the book, and a 14-year-old's take on it, was really interesting and amusing. We also watched the movie Shooter last week, and although this wasn't exactly my pick, and I wasn't expecting it to be a masterpiece, it turned out to be worse than anything I could have anticipated. Beyond being a pretty crappy and cliched action movie, it turned the main character into a hero for having the same kind of intentions as a terrorist, and it really bothered me to see that glorified under the guise of patriotism and American kitsch. Two thumbs down from Erin. However, Bourne Ultimatum made up for all of my negative feelings towards action films, because it was...awesome. And as one wise woman said last night, it's not difficult watching Matt Damon either. I was always just a lukewarm fan of the movies, but this one tied everything together so well and so cleverly that I just want to go back and watch all 3. Lucky for me, my husband has always been a fan, and I'm sure we'll have the full collection of movies in our possession...and watch them many, many times.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
#7
After several very long reading sessions over the last few days, moments ago I finished the final addition to the Harry Potter series. I won't be giving up any information, so don't worry...but let's just say, I'm in awe. What an incredible story, what a brilliant woman who has given it to the world. And this coming from someone who scoffed at the hype for several years before finally giving in and picking up the first book, only to be instantly hooked.
There are so many nuggets of goodness in these books, so many things I would love to spend hours working through and trying to explain, yet I don't want the magic to be taken away in over-analysis. So I let my thoughts just simmer, as I shake my head in incredulity at the depth in these novels. This is certainly on par with other classics like Lord of the Rings- with many of the same adventurous quests.
I found myself both laughing and crying at so many points in this last book. I felt somewhat silly, especially when I realized that Harry was born in 1980, which meant that he's my age! As if he were a real person, I wonder what he's doing now! But it's just another amazing thing about the books- they truly suck you into their world.
I thought I would be heartbroken, coming to the end of the last book, but it ended in a way that I could feel nothing but satisfied, and grateful that J.K. Rowling had the sense to maintain the magic within just 7 books. And I know that I will read all of them several times over, and never grow tired of the story.
Brilliant, just brilliant.
There are so many nuggets of goodness in these books, so many things I would love to spend hours working through and trying to explain, yet I don't want the magic to be taken away in over-analysis. So I let my thoughts just simmer, as I shake my head in incredulity at the depth in these novels. This is certainly on par with other classics like Lord of the Rings- with many of the same adventurous quests.
I found myself both laughing and crying at so many points in this last book. I felt somewhat silly, especially when I realized that Harry was born in 1980, which meant that he's my age! As if he were a real person, I wonder what he's doing now! But it's just another amazing thing about the books- they truly suck you into their world.
I thought I would be heartbroken, coming to the end of the last book, but it ended in a way that I could feel nothing but satisfied, and grateful that J.K. Rowling had the sense to maintain the magic within just 7 books. And I know that I will read all of them several times over, and never grow tired of the story.
Brilliant, just brilliant.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
life together
"What greater thing is there for two human souls than to feel that they are
joined for life - to strengthen each other in all labor, to rest on each
other in all sorrow, to minister to each other in all pain, to be one with
each other in silent, unspeakable memories at the moment of the last parting."
George Eliot, Adam Bede
I just used this quote for a square on a quilt that we're sending to a friend who is getting married, and I really like it. Especially since George Eliot has probably become one of my favorite authors. It's nice to be reminded of the bigger picture.
joined for life - to strengthen each other in all labor, to rest on each
other in all sorrow, to minister to each other in all pain, to be one with
each other in silent, unspeakable memories at the moment of the last parting."
George Eliot, Adam Bede
I just used this quote for a square on a quilt that we're sending to a friend who is getting married, and I really like it. Especially since George Eliot has probably become one of my favorite authors. It's nice to be reminded of the bigger picture.
Monday, July 09, 2007
I'm currently sitting on our couch, ignoring the work that I am trying to finish before my time's up at my current job, reminding myself that I also need to help Mike with some packing that's got to be done soon, and as usual worrying about the millions of things that still need to fall into place before we feel "settled" again. I've been staying away from my blog lately, because I know this is the only topic I feel like discussing, and I know it's only interesting to me. But here I go again.... I even typed in "New York" on Google images just now, and found this great photo:
This shot reminds me of everything I love about this place...the nightlife, people walking everywhere- even in the streets, the classic yellow taxi, and the energy that is just constant in a place like this.
We are just three weeks away from leaving Wyoming, and it has not sunk in at all.
I want to say that I am not very sad at all to leave Laramie, but I think part of that feeling is the typical psychological pull to separate ourselves from things that we know we'll have to leave behind anyway. In my expert opinion. However, I really don't think I'd want to come back to Laramie- I certainly would not want to settle here. I'm just too much of a city girl.
All in all, I think the move is going to be great, especially once we have a few more details figured out. There's a part of me that feels this pull to be anchored in one spot, and to have the next ten years planned, and to have steady incomes, and to do all of the things that are part of the stereotype. And yet a bigger part of me still really, really enjoys the adventure. I can feel that part being slowly overtaken by the more practical side, so I'll just resist it as long as I can.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
26 candles
So, we're having a farewell party at work tomorrow (June 21st, also a very important day as it is the day of my birth) for me and the other 4 (yes, 4) people who are leaving their jobs in the next couple of weeks. And my coworker who provides the goodies for these parties asked if I had any goodie requests. I automatically thought of this cake that she makes, that I remember having when I was younger- it's chocolate cake with some cool whip on top, and bits of toffee on it, and caramel or something on the bottom that makes it absolutely delicious. And apparently better than sex for some people, because apparently it is called better-than-sex cake. I've heard of this cake before, but didn't realize that it was this cake that I love. Although, I'm sure there is more than one cake that has been called better-than-sex cake, because it's a funny name, and maybe people just aren't feeling too satisfied in that department, who knows.
Anyway...I am excited for the better-than-sex cake. And maybe tomorrow night I'll get a sex-on-the-beach cocktail, you know, just to fit the theme. Because it's my birthday. Did I forget to mention that?
Leaving this job is going to be sad. Probably the best boss I have ever had- and I am happy to be able to say that, but sad to be parting ways. I've learned a lot in this job.
But at least tomorrow is my birthday.
Anyway...I am excited for the better-than-sex cake. And maybe tomorrow night I'll get a sex-on-the-beach cocktail, you know, just to fit the theme. Because it's my birthday. Did I forget to mention that?
Leaving this job is going to be sad. Probably the best boss I have ever had- and I am happy to be able to say that, but sad to be parting ways. I've learned a lot in this job.
But at least tomorrow is my birthday.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
call me vanilla
Considering that it snowed in Laramie only a week ago, ew, I was pretty happy to walk out of work today and realize what a beautiful day we're having. Not too hot yet, just perfect.
I also realized that I desperately need some sun. It's already June, and I look as pale as if it were the middle of winter. It's weird, because I used to tan really easily as a kid, but now I'm either white or red, unless I devote a lot of time and attention to being brown. My brother, on the other hand, merely thinks about the sun and suddenly turns two shades dark. I think he's like Puerto Rican or something. Maybe the reason why I want to call him Pablo instead of Scott (hi Pablo!). He got my mom's genes-- genes I used to have, which I have apparently traded in for dad's genes, genes that don't get tan. Kind of a bummer, but as long as I don't start naming dogs after dead French generals, I guess I'll live with it.
I'd like to lay out and work on a tan, but I'm afraid I may cause traffic accidents. Not because I'm laying out and distracting men while they drive, but because the glare off of my white skin might be blinding.
Here's a nerdly image for you: pasty white girl laying on a beach towel, reading Harry Potter.
I also realized that I desperately need some sun. It's already June, and I look as pale as if it were the middle of winter. It's weird, because I used to tan really easily as a kid, but now I'm either white or red, unless I devote a lot of time and attention to being brown. My brother, on the other hand, merely thinks about the sun and suddenly turns two shades dark. I think he's like Puerto Rican or something. Maybe the reason why I want to call him Pablo instead of Scott (hi Pablo!). He got my mom's genes-- genes I used to have, which I have apparently traded in for dad's genes, genes that don't get tan. Kind of a bummer, but as long as I don't start naming dogs after dead French generals, I guess I'll live with it.
I'd like to lay out and work on a tan, but I'm afraid I may cause traffic accidents. Not because I'm laying out and distracting men while they drive, but because the glare off of my white skin might be blinding.
Here's a nerdly image for you: pasty white girl laying on a beach towel, reading Harry Potter.
Friday, June 08, 2007
getting the monkey off my back
I just performed the necessary online steps to make a (HUGE) final payment on my college loans. It feels a little strange, and not as satisfying yet as I thought it would be. Considering that I just transferred a major sum of money from our bank account to the powers that be at Sallie Mae, I half expected a pop-up window, or something, saying "um, are you sure you want to do that??" But no, they sterilely accepted my payment, just as always, with no "congratulations" or "thank God that's over with, right?" But I know that as soon as the transaction is final, and I realize that I can take the "make loan payment" reminder off my calendar, this is going to feel dang good.
I would celebrate, but now I can't afford to.
I would celebrate, but now I can't afford to.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
i could use a drink. or an antacid.
Lately, I'm not doing so well at handling the many-things-to-do-at-once phenomenon that is my life. I'm pretty sure that at any moment my brain is going to shut down entirely and I'm going to be reduced to watching the movie Princess Bride. Over, and over, and over again.
I've got all the work stuff of course. With a major event in less than a month. And lots of people I'm supposed to be coordinating the event with who are never available to talk to me and who never return my calls or emails. They have made me dislike an entire town in the state of Wyoming, that's how bad they are. Plus, I need to be ready to pass this office on to my replacement, and train them well enough that they have at least a vague sense of what the heck they're doing when they take this position.
On top of this, I've got to find a job in NY. Yes, call me Captain Whiney Pants, because this is certainly one of my biggest whines these days. We also need to find a place to live. A place to live which will be our living place for possibly the next 4-5 years. That's longer than I've lived anywhere since graduating high school, and I want to enjoy the living place. We've got to find said living place, or at least living place candidates, from very far away. Then spend too much money to fly out there to pick one.
Oh yeah, and did I mention that I will (hopefully) be taking my first trip to Lebanon in July? This is assuming that the situation isn't too bad over there. But assuming that it is not, we'll leave for Beirut about 5 days after I finish my job. I can't complain at all about this trip, because it will be so good to go over there, but the timing isn't exactly ideal. I'm hoping that my jet lag isn't too bad, because when I get back, I'll have about a week on my own to get everything in order and ready for moving. Then Mike will get back from a trip to Vienna, and we'll probably leave for New York just two days after that. There is also a good chance that I will be starting a new job just days after we get to New York, if not our first day there. Let's all say a collective "eek".
I shouldn't have even acknowledged how stressed I feel right now. My stomach has begun to churn.
I've got all the work stuff of course. With a major event in less than a month. And lots of people I'm supposed to be coordinating the event with who are never available to talk to me and who never return my calls or emails. They have made me dislike an entire town in the state of Wyoming, that's how bad they are. Plus, I need to be ready to pass this office on to my replacement, and train them well enough that they have at least a vague sense of what the heck they're doing when they take this position.
On top of this, I've got to find a job in NY. Yes, call me Captain Whiney Pants, because this is certainly one of my biggest whines these days. We also need to find a place to live. A place to live which will be our living place for possibly the next 4-5 years. That's longer than I've lived anywhere since graduating high school, and I want to enjoy the living place. We've got to find said living place, or at least living place candidates, from very far away. Then spend too much money to fly out there to pick one.
Oh yeah, and did I mention that I will (hopefully) be taking my first trip to Lebanon in July? This is assuming that the situation isn't too bad over there. But assuming that it is not, we'll leave for Beirut about 5 days after I finish my job. I can't complain at all about this trip, because it will be so good to go over there, but the timing isn't exactly ideal. I'm hoping that my jet lag isn't too bad, because when I get back, I'll have about a week on my own to get everything in order and ready for moving. Then Mike will get back from a trip to Vienna, and we'll probably leave for New York just two days after that. There is also a good chance that I will be starting a new job just days after we get to New York, if not our first day there. Let's all say a collective "eek".
I shouldn't have even acknowledged how stressed I feel right now. My stomach has begun to churn.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
super cool dance dance wow!
I've joined the craze. A couple of weeks ago Mike got me a Dance Dance Revolution mat and game for our Xbox. I am a jumping, stumbling, hip-shaking fool. If anyone saw me trying this thing, they'd have a good laugh- but I don't care, bring me some more of those electronic-sounding remixes.
I'm not so sure that this is the best kind of exercise for me, because I think that I have kind of crappy knees. Every couple of years, I will somehow manage to lock my entire leg, so that it is the most unbearable feeling in the world to try and move my leg at the knee. I did this back in the fall, and couldn't move until I had taken about 10 pain killers and warmed up my leg with a heating pad. And after I sit through a movie at a theater, my knees are so creaky that I look like I need a walker to get out of the theater. Cycling is supposed to be the best exercise for bad knees, but a used DDR mat and game are much cheaper than a stationary bike or a gym membership. And I like DDR a lot more- an hour of exercise goes by pretty quickly on that mat.
Another problem might be the stomping noises that go along with this game- something that downstairs neighbors might not appreciate, especially in New York. We'll see how that goes- is this a good enough reason to make a first floor apartment a priority?
My dream is to some day go to an arcade, act like I have no idea what I'm doing when I walk up to that DDR machine, then show up all the little 15-year-old punks who spend their lives on these things. It's like something out of a movie, right? But first I have to get past the stage of clumsily stabbing my feet at the different marks, feebly attempting to have some rhythm and balance.
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