Even Universities Have Bullies

Today I was badgered by a higher administration bully, who will remain nameless. This person will from hence forth be known as "Big Wig" for this story's purposes.

So Big calls our office looking for some fast facts...and she wants them, well, fast. She first badgers Marcia a while with questions Marcia doesn't know the answer to. Marcia puts her on hold and sends her call to me. I was then badgered and mentally flogged for a few minutes with questions that I didn't have any answers to...followed by a dramatic story of her own ingenuity and creativity. Feeling better all the time...Big was also not afraid to let me sit in silence on the end of the phone line, squirming like a worm on a hook. Since my quick-thinking skills didn't seem to be engaged for the morning and Big was willing to wait for them to kick in, I told her I'd call her back in ten. Ten later, I did call, and she seemed strangely surprised...weird. But overall, the bully was impressed with my answers, or at least didn't protest them publicly. And I could restart my non-beating heart knowing I had past the test. Whew.

Bullies...

Oh yeah, I have a bike...and a guiltar!

So, I moved into my apartment back in May, and now July is almost over. There have been a few things that have not moved since they were moved in to their new home. As you can probably guess, those would be my bike and my guitar.

So today, it was such a beautiful day (actually, this whole week has been pretty darn amazing) so I decided to drag that untouched bike outside and find a place to ride. And, as it turns out, Belmont has a pretty nice gravel ATV trail that goes about a million miles in either direction. Ok, so I really have no idea how far it goes...I only went a few miles one way. Turns out that I'm pretty out of shape due to the extreme lack of bike riding that has taken place lately. Darn paradigm of physical activity. Anyway, I had a very nice bike ride with only the occasional interruption of the passing ATVs.

Well, the guitar doesn't need much explaining. I finally pulled it out of its corner, dusted off the case, and tuned it up. Lack of playing made me pretty rusty, but I didn't really mind.

On a completely unrelated note, please pray for my friend Julie. Wednesday she's having back surgery to fix two herniated disks in her back. For the next six weeks she won't be able to pick up either of her beautiful babies. It'll be tough for the whole family to get through, and they'll need extra prayers.

On yet another unrelated note, New Student Registration is over! I'm excited to have made it though. And I love my Peer Advisors. They did so great! But I'm also pretty sad. Now what am I going to do at the office? I fear it will get pretty boring working on computer stuff or analyzing data related to our mailings. Whoo yeah. Should be a thrill ride from here on out. Good thing I have Julie's family to keep me company.

Most Memorable Learning Experience

A while back, the question was raised: What was your most memorable learning experience. It was on a silly little personal profile for school, and I may have gotten a little carried away with it. But after I posted it, I decided that I liked my answer, and I wanted to share it with you. So, here it is, my most memorable learning experience (so far):

The task of choosing one specific moment in my life that I could consider the most memorable learning experience seems a little daunting to me. How can I choose just one? All of life, every moment really, is a series of learning experiences for me.

Looking back over life, there were lessons of falling down and getting back up again- running, first solo bike ride, roller blades…Tears and fears are pushed aside in a moment of growth and persistence. There were lessons of life, love, and loss- first crushes, goldfish lifespans, a family member passing away…And although I would never discredit the power of these life-altering lessons, these are not necessarily the lessons I remember the most.

The moments that show that limits aren't really limits, that persistence can pay off, that the heart is far stronger than you think it ever could be, these leave feelings that are always with you, bringing on a set of emotions that you never want to forget.

I once stood atop a towering waterfall looking over the edge to the deep cool waters below. Petrified of heights, my heart raced, and I wanted nothing more than to retreat to the safety of solid ground. A friend suggested we take the plunge which sounded more than crazy to me. I would never…I could never. But something urged me back to the ledge, a change was taking place, one I could not keep at bay. A wild grin came across my face as I leaned out a little farther. In a flash I was flying, soaring through the air. With a thunderous splash into icy cold water, it was over. "I could never," became "I can," became "I did!" And now, I know without a doubt that I can fly.

Homework and Procrastination...Not a Great Combo

Somehow in the year between my undergraduate studies and my first graduate level course, I forgot just how much I don't like to study. I was doing really well up until this week. Maybe it was the excitement of the first online course ever at UWL and being apart of that momentous event that had me doing work on time and keeping up with all assignments and readings. Or maybe it was the sheer amount of stuff that I had to do that kept me on my toes... Either way, Yuck!

Today my goal was to write the bulk of two major papers, both due in just over a week. Here's what I actually accomplished today:

9:00 am: Wal-Mart (now, this is pretty early for a Saturday morning with only homework on the agenda, but still, it was not really on the agenda)
10:00: post office and bank (necessary stops, but could have been done on Monday)
10:30: Unloading and putting away all the groceries I got at my non-planned excursion to Wal-Mart
11:00: I actually did read a little, printed some things off, wrote the intro to one of my papers
12:30: Drove back to Platteville and hung out outside with Alisha (in my defense, it was the perfect day to play outside...and originally it was Alisha's idea)
3:30: (Note, the time spent with Alisha was just long enough to substantiate a sunburn to further my already horrible farmer's tan...anyway...) Started the bulk of one of the papers, wrote three pages or so, fluffed a lot of it, actually researched some of it, then...
6:30: Writing in my blog because I've lost interest in my paper.

So, one almost down, and one and some to go. And a short holiday week to get it all done in. Sweet. Homework...how can one forget the Yuck factor?

Congratuations, You're an Uncle!

Lately, Isabelle has been a little confused. A few weeks back, she had a whole slue of family staying at her house for a few days, and she got to know her aunt and uncle as well as her grandparents a little better. Her uncle was so excited that out of everyone, Uncle was the name that she picked up and used most frequently. What he doesn't know, is that she now uses that term for, well...me.

That's right, folks. I'm lovingly known as Uncle in Isabelle's house. Never Lindsey, or any other name for that matter. Just Uncle. Her parents are desperately trying to correct her and be sure that I am called Lindsey, but I'm not. I think it's hilarious. Really? Uncle? Awesome. I figure, in a year or two, she'll have a much better command of language, and it'll correct itself. Until then, I'll just keep answering to Uncle.

A Woman on the Edge!

I have to say that I am tired. I will spend my last waking moments of today blowing off what little steam I have left.

I had a Peer Advisor quit today. If I wasn't tired enough...

[Sidebar: Due to the miracles of technology, did you know that you can spell advisor either "advisor" or "adviser"? Spell check and the thesaurus told me so...and apparently, they mean about the same thing, but not quite. Check it out on Word sometime.]

I forgot to go to Wal-Mart, so now I have very little soap left for my next shower, I needed a prescription today that I will have to live without until tomorrow, and I'll have to go orange juice-less for yet another day.

My new ottomans came today, and I still can't tell if they are brown or black...and one has a tiny whole in it...darn.

My cable package sucks (not that I have any time to watch it). But it is so horrible that I can't even find anything on that is suitable for background noise while I'm doing my homework.

So, with all that said, and my head feeling a little less filled with crappiness, I am going to exhaustedly climb into bed and sleep until it is time to go play with my kids...the only thing keeping me smiling right now.

Good night.

My Babies!

Who doesn't love to see cute babies?!? Look how much they've grown!

Moving Fun!

Click below to see some great photos of my recent seven mile move! (My suggestion: after you click the link, hit Slideshow.)

Holy Cow! Where have I been?

Sorry! I just realized today that it has been a long time since I've last updated this. Do you know how much you've missed in the past fifteen days?!?

I've started grad school...It's a little scary, but I think I can survive it. I have already completed several assignments on time, and somehow I'm even managing to work a little ahead of schedule. Amazing, I know.

I moved! Yeah, that's right. I managed the giant leap of seven whole miles from Platteville to Belmont. I'm pretty much all settled now except for the all important wall hangings and such. Luckily my mom is coming back for a long weekend to help me finish up some things. Thanks, Mom!

I get my internet connection tomorrow afternoon barring any major issues with the installation. So, you should find more frequent posts after that.

I have tons of new photos to share with you. They will also be posted after the internet installation has been completed.

So there's the quick update. Nothing you probably didn't already know.

More on the Mysteries of Life

Funny. Just a few hours ago I wrote a heartfelt entry about the mystery of God and how I knew there was something just around the bend waiting for me. But tonight, for some strange reason, much of that feeling is gone. It may just be fatigue or a little loneliness (romance movies do that to a girl), but right now I just feel tired, maybe a little empty. In a matter of hours I have been unexplainedly drained.

How could something so silly like forgetting laundry in the washer for an hour or not getting to Wal-Mart make me feel so crabby? I truly hate being crabby, whiny, complainy...People notice that just as much as someone who is incessantly happy, joyful. Trust me. There are certain acquaintances in my life that don't seem to know what joy is. I would hate to be one of those people. How awful.

So, tonight, as I continue to furrow my brow without explanation, I pray for peace.

My dad had an interesting thought tonight. He told me of a man who ended all his conversations with, "Make it a good day!" rather than "Have a good day!" We do have the choice after all. When I feel bitterness or measly grumpiness creeping up on me, am I not the only one to tell it to get lost?

From great day, to grumpy evening, to beautiful night, I will know that this has been a great day. And the mysteries continue tomorrow, God willing. Beautiful mystery.

Some Days

There are some days when I think that maybe my life is just a little too dull for things like blogging, get-togethers to update friends on life, Christmas letters... But then there are days when I take time to review all the exciting things that are really going on in life.

Let's review.

-I am currently gainfully employed at UWP.
-I will be shifting jobs slightly for the summer, moving from full-time to part-time temporarily.
-I will soon resume nannying for my favorite kids ever.
-In two weeks, I will have a new place of residence in the booming city of Belmont.
-In two weeks, I will have begun a graduate degree through UWL.
-Sand volleyball starts up in three weeks, my favorite non-competitive sport.
-I have successfully survived my first full year of living off-campus (paying bills, rent, etc. on time.)
-I have seen my family more times in the past year than possibly all four years of my undergraduate career combined.

Ok, so to you, maybe this list just reminds you of how dull my life real may be, but to me, this is a thriving list of change, growth, and fantasticness. I read that list and breathe in deep the goodness of life. Every time I open my mouth to complain, or in most cases, after a complaint has been made, I stop an remember just how many reasons I have not to complain, or be bitter. And when I hear others complain about the general ho-hum-ness of life, spouses, jobs, events, etc. it makes me remember even more how much I am blessed.

You know, the past few years have not exactly been a time of spiritual growth for me. Without the help of small groups, the accountability that comes with that, without a good study to follow, or even the time to join a Sunday school class, I've been pretty stagnant. And I believe that that happens sometimes in a Christian's life, and that's ok. But there's been something stirring inside me. A few of you may understand what I'm talking about, that feeling that something is coming, something is changing. That sort of butterfly feeling that catches you off guard at random times throughout the day.

I absolutely love the mystery of God. This used to be (and occasionally still is) something that frustrated me. God, why won't you tell me what I'm supposed to do? Can't You please reveal what my future will hold? But what would life be without the mystery of the plan? To be so predictable that we can plan out every year of our lives to the last detail...where's the excitement in that? Right now, I love that life is open ended. I know there's a plan, and I will fit into it just as God designed. That is the beauty of it all.

Sorry, I guess I got a little lengthy, but there's just a feeling in my heart. It needed an attempt to be expressed.

Every Project Takes a Weirdy

I have recently started a new project in life. (At this point, a few of you are thinking, "Why in the world would you start another project? Aren't two jobs, a volleyball team, grad school, and moving enough?" But I really like projects.)

I have joined the planning committee for the Habitat for Humanity Women's Build. Women from across Grant county will be coming together for the next year and a half planning, organizing, learning, and building a new home for a needy family in the area. How cool is that? Now, being realistic, there are many men that will be instrumental in the project. For instance, how many female contractors or subcontractors do you know in the county? Can you think of one? How about any county? The answer is no. There aren't many female cement pourers, carpenters, plumbers, or electricians out there. So, men will be definitely helping, but it's the women who will be in there getting their hands dirty, learning the trade of home-building, framing, siding, roofing, finishing...How cool.

If anyone is interested in helping (either in the planning, learning a new trade, leading a crew or committee, or actually building that house) please let me know. I'd love to have a huge crew of amazing women working hard to help a family out. Give me a call or shoot me an email.

As it turns out, the director of Grant counties Habitat is kind of a weirdy. Not so much a weirdy as just a disorganized space cadet. It made me laugh at our first meeting last night because she kept saying, "I love organizing things...I just love it," as another pile of papers fell off the table, or she needed to run to her office one more time for something. (Ladies, she really needs our help!) :)

Anyway, new endeavors are always fun. Join in!

Good Advice

The best advice that I have received in a while was from the IT personnel at UW-La Crosse.

I emailed the Information Technology Office with a dilemma of not being able log into my email after changing my password. Lucky me. I clearly described who I was, what my problem was, all the usual items to include. I received the following email in return:

Lindsey, Unfortunately for security reasons you will have to stop by room 103 of the Wing Technology Center with a photo ID for us to reset your password. Sorry for any inconveniences. Thanks. ITS Support Center

Sweet. Thanks for that. Sure let me drive on up there to reset my password...Just what I want to spend an entire day doing. Two minutes later, I received the following email:

Lindsey, After sending you my previous e-mail I noticed that you are an online grad student. In this case you may give us a call so that we can reset your password, but we will have to ask you a few security questions.Sorry for the confusion with my previous e-mail. Thanks. ITS Support Center

Ha, thanks pal. :) Needless to say, all is well now, and I do not anticipate changing my password again...ever.

May?

On a completely unrelated note from the previous post...can anyone believe that it's really May already? I mean seriously.

Cell Phone, Oh Cell Phone...

So, five long years have past that I have called la Ville de Platte (um...that's Platteville for those of you who don't speak French...or whatever language that may be) home. And in those five years, I have always kept my Iowa local cell phone number. Convenient to those that call me most (Mom, that would be you), but not so convenient to the Plattevillians who want to get ahold of me without paying something like 49 cents per minute to chat. And who can blame them. My wisdom is surely not worth 49 cents per minute.

So, yesterday, I took a leap. I went into the local Radio Shack, and signed up for my own cell phone. The cord has been cut, the damage done. There's no turning back. But for the next few weeks, as I try frantically to tell everyone I know to call my new number (which shouldn't take too long, I don't know all that many people), I will have three phones to keep track of. Original cell phone, which has treated me well all through my higher education, Home phone line, which was only created as a desperate plea to hold a free Internet connection, and New cell phone, which hopefully soon with be my one and only phone.

So, in an effort to clear up the confusion, please call the following number (unless you are Mom and Dad, which is probably 50% of my current subscribers): 608-330-0903. Mom and Dad, you can continue to call my old number for a while since, well, you're paying for it. :)

Countdown 'til moving day: 23 days! (That reminds me, I better get packing.)

My Pal

This is my pal, Isabelle. The big guy, that's Isabelle's Daddy. The little guy, that's Isabelle's new(ish) baby brother, Daniel.

Isabelle's hair, not so hot this particular day. But I still love her. And I love her brother. They are pretty much my kids...well, as much as someone else's kids could be my kids. You know.

More photos to come of a ten week older Isabelle and Daniel.

Harboring Bitterness

I came to a realization the other day. I harbor bitterness. It's true. And you know, it's something that I maybe always knew but never wanted to admit. Or maybe I never really thought it through well enough to realize that what was coming out of my mouth was even bitter. But man. It really is, isn't it.

There are so many little things that I make into bigger issues. But the worst of it is, I make them non-issues in the presence of the cause and huge issues to anyone else who will listen. Right, Alisha? I mean, how many times have I said to my roommate, "Oh, I'll clean the bathroom. I really don't mind," only to turn around to my parents and say, "Guess who had to clean the toilet again. Man, I hate that." Or how many times have a listened to the piddly drama in my office with a smile on my face, only to rush to a friend outside of work and acknowledge how much it really steams me.

The true fact of the matter is that the bitterness that comes out of my mouth in the face of trusted friends stems from what should be non-issues in life. Does it really bother me all that much to clean the toilet if it needs to be cleaned? Is it really such a big deal if the assistants in the office are at each others' throats every now and then? And even if office drama did directly effect me, does it even matter then? If someone says something about me, if I get caught in the crossfire...even then, in the end, in the whole mad scheme of life, is it really worth getting riled about? Does it really matter that much?

And to put my friends and family into such a situation to have to listen to only my complaints, only my angry bitter thoughts...how fair is that to them? And how true is that to my real heart? Is that what is really in my heart? And as I reflect, maybe it is. It was. But to what end?

So, today is my turning point. It is a day to reflect on my many seeds of bitterness, many of which are harbored deep within, for no reason but to take up space. Today will be the start of a change, a much needed change, in my heart, in my very way of thinking. All the little things of life that should not take up space, should not waste my time, should not effect my heart...they will be washed out, restoring me to the happy, true-loving soul that I once was. And I won't be doing it alone. An amazing God has brought this to my attention, and He will, as He always does, continue to work on me. And that is the hope that I hold onto.

It's a beautiful day, isn't it? A refreshing day to be lived to the fullest. And starting today, I will.

(And if you're wondering where in the world all this came from, I would highly suggest reading "The Shofar Blew" by Francine Rivers.)

Check Transmission

Easter has quickly come and gone, but it was every bit worth driving home for. And even though I only got about an hour and a half of tradition, it filled that little spot in my heart. My favorite moment was just walking in the door. The general hustle and bustle of holiday feasts was just wrapping up and all the kids were playing in the living room, and Kelton quickly rushed to hug my legs tight. He may have actually been excited to see me, but the odds are better that he was more excited to get outside and finally get those hidden Easter eggs. "Wait for Lindsey" must have been said a hundred times or more as the four year olds patiently watched the windows for me to arrive. Either way, it was worth every mile.

On a completely unrelated note, how seriously should one take the "Check Transmission" light? Because I'd really love to be stranded four or so hours from home on day one of a four day trip. Yeah, that'd be fun.

Easter, Really?

Is anyone else having a hard time believing that this weekend is Easter already? There are certain holidays and markers throughout the year that I typically use to follow time, perhaps in an effort to slow it down, and Easter is typically one of them.

Now, last year, my family graciously came to Platteville for Easter so that I could both sing in the church choir and spend Easter dinner with them. And, as much as I enjoyed spending that time, after it was all said and done, I felt a strange guilt/sadness that at first I couldn't really explain. As it turns out, that feeling was one of tradition lost. For twenty two years, or at least as long as I could remember, Easter had been exactly the same. Easter baskets filled with bad-for-your-teeth goodies, Sunday morning church service, then a feast at Aunt Myra's house with the whole family. And let's not forget the egg hunt that took place even after we were too old to enjoy it.

There was just something special about that time as a family, and having something, as trivial as it was, that stood the test of time. Now, I would imagine that this life-long tradition will not be one that holds for too many more years as we all grow up, and our families grow bigger, but for now, there's nothing better than the status quo, and I could not be more excited about going home, even for a day.

I know I say this all the time, but this weekend, it couldn't seem more true, that time goes by faster and faster every year that you're alive. And, sitting here at just below the quarter-century mark, it's hard to believe that life could go any faster. To anyone older than I: How in the world do you do it? How do you hold on to just enough time to accomplish life?

Although I could continue this reminiscence about the pace of life, for now I will get back to work. Life is calling, and who am I to ignore the call? Enjoy your Easter weekend, cherish your family, and live!

By the Way...

By the way, did I mention I am a grad student now? Yay UW-L!

Here's a Good One

So, today I'm driving (big surprise, I know) in the Appleton area, and I saw the greatest thing ever. I really wished I had my camera with me.

I drove down a fairly crappy road, no gutters or shoulders or anything, but on one side there was a really nice set of apartment buildings. They looked pretty new, maybe built within the last five years or so. The name of the complex was "Sky View Apartments." The view? Not so much sky. In fact, on the other side of the road was a giant landfill! Ha! Sky View...I think not.

I bet the rent's cheap. Man, I should make a coffee table book.

Green Beer, Goose Talk, Boom!

The past few days have been some very exciting ones.

As you know, Saturday was St. Patrick's Day. Now I've never been big into this holiday, being neither Irish or Irish history savvy, but I was invited to a parade this year, so I happily attended. When invited by my friend Alisha, whom I will lovingly refer to as 'Smith, you know that an adventure will probably ensue. 'Smith's grandma, mom, and cousin all came along. We went to a soul food joint in Mad-town. Soul food? Really? Five white women come bustin' into a soul food place to have a little lunch... Now, I love soul food as much as the other guy, but how weird must that have looked? Anyway, after some good eats, and some great coffee, we watched a nifty little parade decked fully in green and all the accompanies St. Patrick's Day. (Oh, and we didn't get the chance to enjoy any green beer, but that was alright with me.)

After gathering minimal amounts of candy, 'Smith and I took off for home, but along the way we took a detour to Governor Dodge State Park. It was a cool day, but the sun was warm, and I had been itching to get outside and experience some adventure for a few weeks already. At first, 'Smith wasn't really into it, but I drug her out on a path or two, and then the mood hit her, and we were off. We headed for a rocky, dare I say mountainous, peak that overlooked the thinly frozen lake. We sat there on that peak for probably an hour or more. While we were there, two geese came to check us out. It turns out that goose wings make a horrendous amount of noise when flapping. Something like a baseball card in bike spokes. Who knew? Anyway, watching geese interact became quite comical and entertaining.

Sunday was rather uneventful, church, choir, babysitting...nothing too noteworthy.

But today, oh Monday...I was going about my business, entering a school's main doors. There seemed to be a bit of commotion, but nothing too out of the ordinary. The lady at the front desk promptly stated, "I cannot let any visitors in at this time." Um...what? I need to just walk across the hall to the guidance office...this is weird. "May I ask..." "Bomb threat. We've had a bomb threat, and we're evacuating the building." That was all I needed to hear. I turned around, and walked at a near sprint to my car, got in, and peeled my way right out of that parking lot. Now, as far as I know, the school did not blow up, and no bomb was found, but still. Holy crap.

Nothing Like a Little Drive

Did you know that it is just about 300 miles from Platteville to Sturgeon Bay? And it takes just over four hours with no stops. You know when a drive like that is fun? When you're, say, going on vacation, traveling with a friend, going to sightsee... You know when it's not fun? When you drive all that way to talk with students about UW-Platteville and no one shows up to talk to you. That is no fun. No fun at all. I hope tomorrow fairs better. If not, I may just give up and go home.

Feeling a Little Savage

One of my favorite types of dining, a fairly new concept, is the carside-to-go of a few smart and delicious restaurants. This travel season, I have had more carside meals than ever before. Typically, I have had decent luck with the services, however, there have been a few mishaps. Once, a few weeks back, I ordered from an Applebee's, but after I placed my order, I couldn't find the place. I was almost a half an hour late, and my food was beyond just cooled off. But tonight was the worst luck of all when it comes to this usually amazing service.

The food: delicious; the service: prompt; the silverware: ? Well, there wasn't any. Now, perhaps I was expected to request them, but I don't recall ever having to do this before. So, I didn't ask for any while on the phone. And I didn't check for any until back safely in my hotel room. After realizing the mistake, I had a few different options: go all the way back to Applebee's...well, that was out right away; go down to the front desk or the hotel lounge and ask for some...well, this one was definitely feasible, but the food was so hot and smelled amazing....so nah; eat. This option won me over because I was so darn hungry, and once you get a whiff of sirloin, garlic mashed potatoes, fresh steamed broccoli. I couldn't wait any longer.

Ok, so it was a little savage to say the least. But what's a hungry girl to do? I sure did scoop individual fingers full of mashed potatoes from plastic dish to drooling lips. And I sure did pick up that entire nine ounce stake, dripping with natural juices, and ate it without setting it back down once. It was, needless to say, a delicious but messy meal.

Moral of the story: ask for silverware, but if you forget, improvise.

It's Official!

Well, after much ado, it's finally official. I signed a lease today for a beautiful two bedroom apartment with a huge kitchen, laundry on the floor, water included....just a fantastic place. I cannot wait to move in.

I think Belmont will treat me well. It'll feel just like being home. After all, moving to Platteville back in the day seemed like heading for the big city. Belmont is just the place. There are gas stations and a post office, some little downtown businesses, and even it's own school. Perfect.

Well, I move in May 26th. So if you're interested in getting sweaty and lifting some super heavy furniture, you be sure to give me a call.

Appleton...Ugh!

After a very long week on the road, seeing very few students, we had a reception for students last night in Waukesha. It went pretty well with only a few no shows. Today we headed up north (der, eh) to Appleton where the weather got a little nasty with freezing rain, rain, and snow.

We debated if we wanted to cancel the reception here in Appleton, figuring that no one would show up anyway, but we were already here. So we ate a happy dinner and set up for the reception. Right at 6:00 we figured that no one was really coming and we happily started to eat all the food (not that we ever could consume that much food...cheese and fruit for 100). But shortly after that, we did have a few (a very few) students and their families show up.

But now we are tragically stuck in Appleton staying at yet another hotel. And with a Preview day lurking around the corner this Saturday, I would kill for a good night's sleep in my own bed, a shower in my own bathroom, and a meal cooked with my own hands. But I guess that will have to wait until tomorrow...hopefully tomorrow.

Sleep well everyone.

A House is Not a Home, but a School Could Be

Well, I hate to make assumptions, but I think it's pretty safe to say that I have finally found a place to live. I will, at this point, give props to my coworker Deb, for pointing me toward it.

I will be moving to Belmont. In Belmont, there is an old school house, built circa 1901, that some very nice rich people took the time, energy, and money to utilize original features while creating unique and modern spaces. And did I mention that they're beautiful? Original hardwood floors, big windows, high ceilings...lockers in the hallways, original chalkboards in each unit, washers and dryers on each floor, gas fireplaces in the basement units...ok, so I can't afford those units, but they have them. In a word, these places are sweet.

I almost cried when I was talking with the owner, telling her how many terrible places I had seen, and that all I was looking for was a place that I could walk in and think, "Ahhh." A pleasant sigh was all I was really looking for. But I walked into their building and though, "Wow! Amazing!" And that was about it. I had pretty much decided.

So all I have to say at this point is, thank God for Belmont, and thank God for non-student geared housing. :)

Big Loser

So there I was, eating my dinner quietly in Applebee's. I was happily finishing my financial planning book, completing a very typical meal. Then it happened. I always joked that it happened all the time, but it had never actually really happened. My waitress came up to me and said that she was really feeling sorry for me sitting all the way across the restaurant all by myself. Ugh. Well, if I wasn't already feeling like a big loser, that statement solidified that I probably should.

I politely explained that this was an everyday sort of occurrence for me as a traveler. I explained my job and all that. Then she asked me if I had my own house or just literally traveled all the time. Seriously? Wow. Well, the loser factor just increased.

So, sweet. A waitress feels sorry for me. This travel season is starting off about as well as it could.

On the Road Again....

Today is my first day back on the road. Well, I don't actually leave until say noon-ish today, but this should be a great week.

I scheduled light, so that I could ease my way back into the swing of travel life. My easing hasn't been so smooth though. I'm not really packed yet, I have to stop at the bank and the post office, and and my fleet car is not filled up with gas. Sweet. Oh well. I am trying my hardest to keep a positive attitude about this travel season. I started off dreading it, but you know, it might be kind of fun. Last season wasn't horrible, it was just a season. And so too will this one be.

So wish me luck as I brave the weather, snow, and a different fleet car that usual (which has reportedly had previous transmission troubles), and head up north. And please, please give me a hug next time you see me. :)

Just Call Me Picky McPickerson

Maybe I'm just too picky. I don't know. But it is seeming to be more and more difficult to find a new place to live that I really like. I always thought that my perfect place was waiting out there for me at the price I want. Turns out...it's not.

Well, actually, that's not true. It is out there...was. It was out there. But it only took one dumb landlord to really ruin my day. I sure did find my dream rental. I was very impressed with it's overall quality and affordability. It came with lots of extras like a two car attached garage, dishwasher, brand new washer and dryer, central air, deck, big back yard, nice residential neighborhood. And best of all - not available. "Oh, sorry I showed that place to you, and offered to show you a second time, but the tenants changed their minds and will be staying." Yoink. The rug gets yanked from under my firmly planted feet.

So, now the search continues for the perfect place to call home. This sure would be a lot easier if my standards were low...there are lots of places out there if you don't care that you live in a dump.

The Hunt Continues

I'm still in the middle of possibly the widest and most in depth rental property search ever. I'm sure there's a landlord's guild somewhere, where they're all getting together, playing cards with a beer or two, and the table conversation going something like this:

"Are you holding places right now for some prospective tenants?"
"Yeah, actually, one of my best."
"Me too."
"Me too."
"Can I ask who you're holding for?"
"Sure, it's this really annoying woman who asks four million questions and has called me more than once with follow-up questions. And you know, she called the other day for a second viewing...Who does that?"
"You're kidding! I think I'm holding for the same freak!"
"Wait, me too!"
"Is here name Lindsey, by chance?"
"Yep."
"Yeah."
"Uh-huh."
"What a freak."

But I've decided I just don't care. I will find the most interesting place to live in Platteville for the best price. And, you know what else? It probably won't be the listed price either. Never settle for listed price. Monthly rent is always negotiable. :)

My latest prospect is a little unique space near downtown. Possibly the strangest, but could-be-cutest place ever. You walk into an "L" shaped living room, followed by a small front bedroom. Then there's a really wide hallway leading back to the kitchen, bathroom, and other bedroom that is definitely wide enough to put a dining set in. The kitchen is small, but there is a walk-in pantry-fun! And the master bedroom has a walk-in closet. Oh, and did I mention there's a full basement with laundry that is clean! So, pretty much, it's weird, and cool, and strange all in one wonderful package. So we'll see. I'll keep you posted. I have to call the landlord back for a second visit to take measurements and check shower water pressure and such important things. Hee hee.

Grad School: Take Two

Back about a year ago, if you recall, I went through a round of applications to a few graduate schools and couldn't nail down the perfect opportunity, so I aptly withdrew my applications. I decided that I just wasn't ready for the move to graduate school. But after nearly a year in the workforce, I'm quickly realizing that I will not be able to move up any chain of command without a higher level degree...which, strange. I thought that a bachelor's degree was a fairly high degree...but schmee. Whatever.

So I once again plunge into another application process for another grad school. This situation, though, does seem to be exactly what I'm looking for. UW-La Crosse has a brand new all online grad program which means I get to keep working full-time and take classes at an almost full-time pace. How exciting!

Please stop me if I've written a post about this already. I don't think I have, but frankly, I'm too lazy to check.

So wish me luck on my second attempt at greatness...or something like that.

Oh, and on a completely unrelated note, I could be a realtor if this whole student affairs thing falls through. This weekend I drove around for several hours taking photos and collecting contact information on many different rental properties in town. I am working on finding the best bang for my buck which means a deep and wide scale search of every property just for good measure. You never know what hidden gems are just waiting to be found.

And then do you know what happens? I get to go furniture shopping! And that is possibly the most exciting news of all.

Another Year Come and Gone

First of all, I would like to wish all of you a happy New Year. Welcome to 2007.

Speaking of 2007, can you believe that it really is 2007 already? Remember back to when 2010 brought up dreams of flying cars and teleportation devices? And now, just a few short years to go, none of our dreams for the future seem to be coming into fruition. But technology that was never thought up has been popping up everywhere. I mean, new cell phones that do email, surf the web, take pictures, play music, TV, and who knows what else that are small enough for me to lose consistently. And although cars do not yet fly, there are some running on cleaner fuels and getting obscenely high mileage numbers, have audio imputs and GPS navigators.

But despite all that, time is sure flying. It seems faster every year. And with more and more to experience with each year of adulthood I enter, faster time cannot be a good thing. You know, things like learning to keep track to bills, rent payments, insurance coverage are all still pretty new to me this year. And more new things are building on top of all that: retirement plans, filing taxes (gulp), figuring out major life purchases while still paying off student loans, grad school while working, well, the list goes on and on. And if you think about it all at once, adulthood feels very overwhelming like a big wave knocking you off your surfboard in the ocean. So I try not to think about it all at once...ever. No one likes to be knocked off their surfboard.

In the year to come I do have hopes, dreams, and goals of what I'd love to see take place. I'd love to get into UW-La Crosse's Student Affairs Administration program this summer and complete the degree in a year and a half to two years. I'd certainly love for Mr. Right to sweep me off my feet and put a ring on my finger. I have dreams of purchasing a car, but I'll settle for new furniture. I hope to spend more time with family and less time in a car. And most of all, I'd really love to feel a little more in control and a little less out of control in all aspects of life. That would be nice.

Anyway, happy New Year. Hope it's a good one.

Speaking of Aurora...

Last night, I was on the road for exactly four and a half hours...which, if you ask me, is way too many. But the most amazing part of the horrible drive was the faint hues of the Aurora Borealis...the Northern Lights.

Now, I have never, up until this point, seen the Northern Lights, so it took me a while to figure out what I was even seeing. At first I thought it was the moon shining ridiculously brightly over a long horizon of clouds. But that seemed strange since it was more like the entire north eastern horizon was glowing. And as I precariously drove down Highway 81 toward Platteville, I noticed that the glow was changing, growing, moving. Then it hit me...and my foot hit the brakes.

After nearly causing a few accidents, I pulled off the road to a gravel road, parked and got out. There I stood, in the middle of nowhere just staring at the sky. What a sight it was. It wasn't that bright or clear, but still...amazing.

So, if you're in a clear area tonight, be sure to look up that the north eastern sky and maybe you too can experience the wonder.

Subway Gets Ugly

This week, I have experienced the worst Subway ever. Seriously. Last night, I went to said Subway to get some dinner circa 9:00 pm. I entered to the sight of a very wide-like butt sticking up just over the cash register and a muffled voice saying, "Um...hi." (She was apparently picking up something off the floor...or possibly licking the floor...not really sure.)

I thought to myself, "Sweet. This is the local moron stop. Service should be great."
"We...um...don't have any bread."
"Excuse me?"
"Yeah, out of bread."
"Like for a few minutes?"
"Well, it could be at least an hour...possibly all night."

Wow. Can someone please explain how a sub shop, whose livelihood seems to be dependent on the amount of bread they sell, runs out of that one primary and essencial product? But, giving them the benefit of the doubt (perhaps it was a managerial oversight or an incredibly good sales night) I decided to go back tonight. I made a fairly major mistake however. I asked a few questions. Apparently, that was against the rules at this Subway.

I first asked if they perhaps carried any parmesan-oregano bread. Most Subways have stopped carrying this bread, but sometimes I ask just to be sure.

"Um...do you mean the Italian herb and cheese?"
"No, but that will work fine. Do you carry spinach?"
"Subway doesn't do spinach."

Ok, so at this point, I'm still doing alright. I mean, I am feeling a bit sorry for the person on the other side of the counter who was not the brightest crayon in the box. But I'm still pretty satisfied, that is, until the lady wouldn't put the peppercorn-garlic sauce on my sub. One little spit of a squirt, and then it was "This is all we have of this sauce," followed by a blank stare.

That was about all I could handle. I quickly finished my order and got the heck out of there. Could someone please notify management? Seriously.

Favorite Part

My favorite part of today: getting my chin cracked open with a remote control...thanks Megan.

Ok, so it wasn't my favorite part, but it did really happen...and it really did hurt. And all over a Simpson's episode.

The Norovirus Made Me Do It

So, this morning, I was driving from Eau Claire to Bloomer, about a 35 minute drive. On my way, I'm listening to I-94, the all holiday radio station. The DJ began the news with the following story:

"The town of Bloomer continues to battle its epidemic of the norovirus. Bloomer Hospital is currently admitting new patients, but the assisted living facility will only be admitting patients with the norovirus symptoms which include vomiting, diareah, and high fever...."

Sweet. Bloomer...where I'm going. A terrible virus in epidemic proportions which is keeping kids out of school and knocking out the old person population quicker than usual....and I'm headed into the hot zone: the K-12 school building.

So far, I feel darn good...I'll let you know how tomorrow goes.

Another Slow Day

It has taken some getting used to, but the Northwoods of Wisconsin are treating me pretty well. I enjoy the scenery as well as the nice folks I meet, but there's one thing that I haven't gotten used to just yet: the very few students I see. Now, some of my slow day ended up being circumstantial and very much out of my control (i.e. one school had a teacher pass away last week). I'm sure, too, that distance plays a big part. Platteville is at least three hours from the Wausau area...but that logic seems silly as ALL my schools are at least three hours from Platteville....hmm.

Today I tried to keep myself incredibly busy. I visited five schools between the hours of 8:00 and 2:00, but guess how many students I saw...Four. Four students in five schools. Icing on the cake - I saw three students at one school. You do the math there.

So now with just enough postcards to put off until tomorrow, no good magazine in my handbag, and no book to enjoy on this trip, I sit in a Green Mill eating my bread and herb butter, telling you all about my slow day. However, the great part about tonight is the Green Mill serves an incredible smoked chicken and spinach ravioli in a garlic cream sauce. This makes my belly happy....and my keyboard slightly greasy...but shhh...don't tell the boss. :)

Fa La La La La La...

It's that time of year again! And I must confess that I'm excited....and a little confused. Excited because it sure is Thanksgiving time (which also means it's also almost Christmas time), and confused because how the heck did the whole year disappear already?!? You know, you always hear it from those older and wiser that as you get older, time goes faster. I guess I never really believed it to be true. I mean, don't you remember summer break in elementary school lasting what seemed like years. I few days into break we were already bored. But now, summer? What summer? Did summer happen? I can't recall.

And now, here I am, in mid-November, working my first real job, complete with college degree and all, and all I wish is for time to just slow down a little. At this point in my life, young as it still is, I find myself looking back thinking, "I never thought I'd..." Let's recap. Mom and Dad, don't get too weepy over all the reminiscing.

In elementary school, I never thought I'd be anything but a teacher. I was going to teach any and all grades...I could never really narrow it down to my favorite age group. Little did I know that high school and my ego would change my mind down the road.

In high school, I never thought that I would fail engineering in college. I was the best in high school. I was the best at drafting, at tech. classes, at math and science. I thought I was the stuff and destined to be an amazing engineer, making loads of money. Let's face it, communications and public relations weren't even on my radar.

And one more: I never thought I'd be attending my 23rd family Thanksgiving without that special someone to enjoy it with. As long as I can remember, even the past year or so, I had a sort of "target date" to be happily married: 23. Silly, I know. Plenty of time, I know. But it's just the thought that lingered my whole life that a girl was supposed to be married at 23. Maybe by next year...

And a bonus: I never thought that despite all of the "never thoughts" that have taken place throughout life, that I would be as happy and content as I am. So here's a toast to "never thoughts" of the past and those that are yet to come.

That all being said, enjoy your holiday season. Enjoy your family. And take a little time to be thankful for all the "never thoughts" that make life so beautiful.

I Think My Foot is Broken

This week has been one of the slowest weeks so far in my road travels. Yesterday was extremely difficult to deal with. I met with three students...total. Out of four schools? Yeah, that's pretty bad. But, one for the books: I did talk with a student on the phone for about 20 minutes in a guidance office because the kid was home sick from school. Neat.

And the most unfortunate accident of the week occurred today at my last school. I somehow dropped my wheelie briefcase, stuffed full of intro. books, info. cards, all the heavy stuff (not emptied so much due to my extremely slow week) onto my left foot...directly on that bone that sticks up a little higher than all the rest. I actually had to sit back in the car for a few minutes while I dried the tears from my eyes and regained composure to be able to meet with students. And for the record, it really hurt.

On a happier note, I have so far successfully gone through two and a half days without eating at a McDonald's once. This is a record for me on the road this semester. I made four lovely meals on Saturday and froze them solid so as not to die from salmonella or ecoli. And that has made a lot of difference. And I've even worked out once! I know, exciting. But due to the recent foot injury, there will be no treadmill or elliptical for me tonight. Maybe tomorrow.

Bye Bye, Bad Habit

Ok, so pretty much my whole life, at least since I've had teeth, I've been a nail biter. And I'd have to say that it has not been much fun. More times than I care to recall, I've been caught in the act, and even complete strangers feel the need to point it out...as if that is some sort of motivation to stop doing it...yeah.

But back in September, I had a set of acrylics done. And for those of you not familiar with the subject of cosmetology (yeah, like I am really an expert...), acrylic nails are really bad for your real nails, really bad. And I had nearly no nails left once I removed those fake guys. I bought myself some nail growth polish in hopes that it would help the poor little guys grow a little bit, and funny thing, the stuff actually is kind of working. All my nails have white tips and a few of them are even clicking on the keyboard right now. (That doesn't happen very often.)

I think I can now understand why some girls freak out over a broken nail. I have become pretty attached to the little guys. If I broke one down real short, I think I might shed a tear over it. Here's hoping for nails that keep on growing...maybe even to the point where I'd have to cut them. (That has never happened before.)

Ok, after writing this, I'm sure that it was possibly the worst blog entry ever. Neat. But hey, Dad, at least you won't have to point out when I'm biting my nails over Thanksgiving...I don't think I will be. :) Feel free to leave congratulatory comments on my newly broken bad habit below.

The Gassy, the Witch, and the Pickup Lines

(A.K.A. Adventures in the Big Apple)

I would like to chalk this week up to being the strangest most random week of travels yet. A few schools really surprised me with a huge number of students, and some were pretty typical with one or two students...or none.

First of all, there is nothing like meeting with that weird kid...you know the type...one on one. It wouldn't have been so bad, I mean, I've dealt with the weird kids before, but this kid topped the cake. We had just introduced ourselves when the stinkin' kid broke wind. I didn't hear it at all; it was very sneaky but very stinky! Now normally I would make a big deal about it if it was a friend, but I had to hold my breath and bite my tongue until the moment passed. I was embarrassed for him, and I may have even blushed, but we survived the moment.

Another great moment of the week. I was at a very small school that reminded me of where I went to high school, and I was sitting in the guidance counselor's outer office (no guidance secretary for this school) when a young lady walks in to talk to me. She starts out the conversation with, "You guys have some engineering stuff and your school, right?" Never a good sign. She went on to say that she had some family that attended Platteville, and she's like to start there. After all, "Michigan Tech is just a little bit better than Platteville...you know." Um...right. The guidance counselor walked through the office and mentioned that we probably had scholarship opportunities. To which she replied, "Oh yeah, I'm real poor, and you need to give me a scholarship." Nice. That's all I've got to say about that. Nice.

Chillin' in line at McDonald's at around 9:00 in the morning, waiting to order breakfast, can be an interesting start to a day I came to find out this week. I was staring at the menu blankly, already knowing what I was going to order, when I construction worker came up to me and said, "Why hello. How are you doing today?" I said politely, "Fine, thank you." To which he came back with, "No, you're supposed to say flawless...Let's try again. How are you doing today?" Wow. I didn't know stuff like that really happened. I kind of figured that that was just the sort of thing that you saw on movies and stuff.

And to complete my random week, in a moment of desperation, needing an early morning jolt, I tried a cup of coffee. Turns out, I don't mind coffee at all. Weird. Didn't see that one coming.

The Big 2-3

That's right, folks. It's my birthday. And a birthday first for this kid: today I had 300 people singing Happy Birthday at the Pioneer Preview. A little bit random, but a whole lot of fun. Heidi kindly suggested it, and the whole crowd played along. Thanks Preview people!

Leave a birthday comment to brighten my day above the gloomy weather today! :)

Round-Abouts and Other Confusions in Green Bay

Can someone explain the purpose of a round-about? I mean really. You know what I'm talking about right? Those ridiculous substitutes for corners or four-way stops that require you to circle your way precariously around to the right on a very tight curve while simultaneously trying to avoid all the other cars coming in from three other entrances, exiting at random all at incredibly high speeds.

Now, what exactly is the point to all this? Is it faster than a four-way stop? I think not. Everyone still has to yield to that person on their left entering the circle while keeping a mindful eye on that car to your right that may slip in before you do. Is it safer than a four-way stop? Absolutely not! Everyone at least comes to a stop at a four-way stop! Round-abouts? No stopping required, occasionally it's a good idea, but definitely not required. Are they more cost effective than the stop? I don't see how. They require so much more pavement (the big circle is probably the equivalent of an extra city block).

In my opinion these crazy round-abouts are just ridiculous. Just ridiculous.

You know what else is ridiculous? Today, Green Bay got its fair share of snow sprinkles throughout the day, but the sun refused to give up. Every time that it snowed today, it was also sunny. I thought it quite strange.

Oh, and for the record, Green Bay-not so scary. I thought that it would be a little more big-city-ish. But so far, I've found it to be very nice.

Pot-a-wat-o-what?

(A.K.A. Happenings and Mishappenings in Door County)

Yesterday I took a trip to Potawatomi State Park here in Door County. Lucky for me, the rain held off, and it wasn't too cold for a good hike in the woods. I found a good spot to park on the farthest end of the park near a trail head where I was sure I would find no other human soul. I took a moment to bundle up in my favorite sweatshirt, a vest, and a stocking hat, ready to find an adventure. With park map in hand, I took off down the trail, not knowing exactly what to expect. I gave a quick call to Mom just to let her know I was ok, and I took off, confident that this would be a great hike.

I walked only about twenty minutes through some very thick timber when the path opened up right to the lake. Before I could even see it, I could hear the waves lapping up on the rocky shore. I broke a few park rules and left the well-worn trail to experience the shoreline a little closer. White-washed rocks, all square and flat were scattered for as far as the eye could see in both directions down the water's edge. I could have sat there all day...if I would have had all day that is. It was already nearly 5:00, and I wanted to get some more hiking in before it got dark. Fearing that I would get lost (which seems pretty difficult on a shoreline...you really only have two directions to go), I jumped back on the trail and walked a little longer. When the trail veered away from the shore, I decided to turn around and follow that beautiful rocky shore right back to where I had come from. The sound of the water was just too relaxing to walk away from.

Back into the thick timber, I walked slowly, satisfied with my adventure. I was deep in a daydream when I heard a twig snap. Jolted back to reality, I glanced around, worried suddenly that I could possibly be in some sort of danger. Instead I found a small and very pretty deer about ten feet from me in the path. There she stood, checking me out as much as I was checking her out. Then a second and a third poked their heads from around their trees to check me out, too. They all munched away, with one mindful eye on me and my every move. Finally, not wanting to disturb them, I hunched down to a squat and just watched. I watched until finally the deer got bored with me and walked on to better munching grounds.

And how better to end my day at Potawatomi than to climb a 75-year-old 100-foot wooden tower to view the lake and the treetops from above. God must love looking down at his creation all the time. Something so beautiful is hard to take your eyes off of.

Today was fantastic as well. Already feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, I decided to take off again for a new and exciting destination. This time however, the actual destination was unknown. It was the journey I was after. The cloudy skies had held back all day, not allowing a single drop to fall, but at about 2:30, just as I was leaving my last school, I saw one, then another, then a downpour of all the days saved-up drops...just trying to ruin my adventure. And they could have. All those little rain drops could have chased me right back to my hotel room where I would have hermitted until dawn. But I decided that there was adventure to be had, rain or not, I was off.

I took off north of Sturgeon Bay wanting to peek at as many nooks and crannies of Door County as were physically possible before dark. Heading up the east side of the peninsula, I followed a scenic route or two before I hit a double whammy of parks. Whitefish Dunes State Park and Cave Point County Park. These parks shared an entrance road except for one crucial difference: state parks cost money to enter and county parks are free. Carefully navigating by the road signs, I made sure to only enter this unknown territory of the county park. It turned out to be one main parking lot with a few picnic tables and an information kiosk. The rain was still coming down pretty good, but I couldn't really see beyond the picnic area, and I was curious to find out what the attraction of the park could be.

I debated with myself in the nice warm dry car for a bit before the curiosity was just too much to stand. Bundled up with that lovable hooded sweatshirt, hood up, I headed for the kiosk. I read for a bit, but for the life of me, I just couldn't figure out what the heck it was trying to tell me. There were diagrams and glacier talk that I just didn't get. Finally, before reading the whole thing, I took off to just over the small ridge when the most wonderful sound hit my ears. Water...not just water...but pounding waves, crashing up against...well, something.

Over the ridge there was, well, a cliff. But when I looked down, all I saw was water flowing under where I was. I walked around on the rocky ledge until the crashing was much louder when I could finally see what was beneath me. It was a beautiful cave...a whole shoreline of cave-like structures, all crashing and roaring. Oh, how I would have loved to climb down to the base of a few of the caves, put my feet in the cool water, and be engulfed in the majesty of the whole thing-the sounds, the smells, the feel of the waves. I could have chosen a smooth rock and perched there for hours just listening, maybe singing along with the waves' heavenly song. But after just a few minutes of taking in the grandeur, I had also taken on much water. My beloved sweatshirt was several pounds heavier than it had started, my hands a little colder than I would have liked.

Throughout the drive, I took many detours so I could remain as close to the lake as I could. I spent more time driving 15 miles an hour than any other speed, which couldn't have made me happier. Around every bend I found waterfront homes with their own personal beaches. Some of the homes were small and nearly worn out with pure love. Others were massive and regal, like mansions. But my favorites were the ones you couldn't even see. The timber was so thick in some spots that all you could see was a well-worn opening in the trees that wound around into the shadows. No pavement, no gravel, just a worn dirt path. Now, if the driveway takes your breath away, can you imagine what wonders the home at the end must contain?

After several hours of awe and admiration of many neighborhoods and timberlines, I decided I still had time to head north, but the farther north, the heavier the rains and the darker the skies. So, after making it as far as the shining little town of Ephraim, I headed straight back to Sturgeon Bay with no pit stops, detours, or park hopping.

This week has done more for my soul than I ever could have imagined. I began this week with feelings of loneliness and sheer exhaustion, and I will end it with a renewed sense of accomplishment and energy, knowing I'm in the right place, the place God that has put me for reasons that I don't have to understand. Who knew that all of that could have come out of little ol' Door County?

New Idea

Being the lonesome traveler that I am, I (with much credit due to my mom) came up with an idea that I think I will implement within the next few weeks...hopefully.

I think I'm going to organize a twenty-somethings group for us non-married folks that provides activities and events on weekends for people to do with other people. There is so much stuff that can be done for free or relatively cheap around the area that would be much more fun with other people. Even dinner...that would be more fun with others. Adventures of all kinds await groups of young folks like myself....I think I will find them. :) What do you think? Think it sounds like something to pursue? Express yourself in the comments so I know how you feel!

On a completely unrelated note, I am near Door County this week...and it sure is raining. The forecast calls for rain all week which completely blows my plans of a little work and a lot of Door County play. It's too bad really. I was in the mood for some state park hiking, cute shop shopping, and all that comes with the tourist spot that is Door County. And on another completely unrelated topic: Manitowoc has some of the most confusing intersections known to man. How do people find there way around this town anyway? I mean, seriously. I have a GPS system telling me my every move, and I still took like thirty wrong turns today. There is something seriously messed up about that.

Kohler?

I went to the town of Kohler, Wisconsin this week. Have you ever been to this town? I have to say that I was thoroughly creeped out. I mean seriously.

This town is like a movie set. I drove around with the extra time that I had before my school visit, and it quickly became a game to try to find an ugly house...an ugly car...an ugly person. But I lost at my own game. There were none. The town was so beautiful that it was almost disgusting. All of the shops and markets and the downtown were all of these beautiful brick building, new-looking with old-style charm. Many of the buildings had leafy vines crawling gracefully up the sides, and they were just starting to show the colors of fall. What a town.

My first thought was that if I ever made a whole lot of money, I would move there and boast of this most beautiful town. But I found myself, as I was playing my little ugly search game, saying out loud over and over, "What is this place?" And then I realized that the feeling I had was not an awe of its amazingness, but rather an overwhelming weirded out feeling, as if in the presence of some sort of strange cult.

So, in short, I do not feel like I will ever move to Kohler, Wisconsin, but I may go there again to gawk.

Oh Monday

Man, I love driving all the way across the state on a Sunday night to visit a high school at 8:00 am with no students (not to mention three schools with only one or two students). Man, what a productive day.

On happier notes, I get to see my most recently married friend Bridget Thomas (still takes me a second to get her name right) tonight. I get to see her apartment and get a meal. What a deal! :)

And possibly the scariest then funniest moment so far on this trip: My GPS unit was stolen out of my car...OK, well that's what I thought anyway. Actually, the suction cup fell off the front window because it got so darn cold last night. But when I walked up to my car and opened the door, it sure did seem like it was stolen. I first peed a little in my pants, then I shed a quick tear. But then I recovered and stuck the darn thing back on the window.

PS. My hotel this week is very nice. It's got a water park (of sorts), free breakfast, and a Citgo in the parking lot. Who doesn't need one of those?

She-man and the Nipple

For those of you who have small children in the room that can read, this post may not be completely appropriate. (As if the title wasn't enough of a giveaway for that...)

The best story I've got about my week of WEF's had to have been toward the end of the week. The WEF setting was pretty normal as far as WEF's go. I was at a table with some cosmetology school across the aisle from me. With only about five minutes to go before the close of the WEF, three students cruised their way over to the cosmetology school.

I clearly had a stunned look on my face as I caught a glimpse of the sight in front of me. The person next to me, out of the blue, said, "Yeah, I can't figure it out either." I blushed about ten shades of red when I realized that I had been caught staring. But truly, neither of us had a clue what we were looking at. Was it a man dressed convincingly as a woman? Or was it possibly a very masculine looking woman?

The representative at the cosmetology school table did a very good job holding herself together. I will give her props on that. She gave her usual talk, handed them their information, and sent them on their way. The students only got a few steps away when the rep quickly covered her mouth with both hands and turned away from her table. Curious as I was, I went up to her to inquire about the situation that had just unfolded. Before I even had a chance to ask about the she-man, she blurted out, "Definitely a man, but that's not all!" She went on to share that as she was talking to the students, one of them repeatedly pulled down her shirt to cover her midrif, but instead, she revealed much more disgusting and taboo body parts...her nipples. Um...nipples? You don't even see them on a beach or on TV...but at a college fair? Wow.

And so goes the tale of She-man and the Nipple.