I had my list of people to see while I was in Texas, and I got to almost everyone... One person in particular was my Lizard- and not just because I missed her smiling face, but I had committed to do something just for her...
I lived with Elizabeth for a year, and in that time I learned all kinds of fun facts! Fact: Lizard likes red wine. Fact: Lizard forgets to blow candles out before leaving the house. Fact: Lizard sings like an angel- in distress. And most importantly for this story... Fact: Lizard hates unshaven legs. This is the kind of information you have to do something special with! Ladies, what sucks more than shaving? Yes, good answer- shaving in the cold! And New York was cold, so what was I not doing? Shaving! (Readers at this time should know exactly where this is going unless you have no sense of humor or do not know me at all.) I talked to Elizabeth about a week after I moved and somehow leg shaving came up and I commented that I hadn't made that a priority since pants were a staple in my dresscode. She just couldn't believe it- she actually sounded more scared than disgusted! An idea was born! Mwaahahahahahahaaaa! I committed right then and there to not shaving my legs so that when I came home I could rub them on her. Hilarious. I kept my word- and it was really hard sometimes- but I had to see this through! The best part was that she forgot. I went to see her and Pie for wine and bull-shit like the good old days and then... BAM! LEGS! Lizard freaked and squealed as I had hoped. Pie put her hand over her mouth and looked genuinely concerned for my health and safety. I assured them that since my mission had been completed I would shave. I left that night feeling very accomplished and happy. It could have been the 3 bottles of wine we knocked out though...
Being home for Christmas allowed me to be there for Traci's birthday! YAY! I had alllll kinds of great birthday activities in mind- laser-tag, ice-skating, putt-putt... but nooooo, she wanted to be all adult and go have sushi. Selfish bitch. :) The sushi was perfect, the company was fantastic, the beers were cold, the darts were so far from the bullseye we quit...
The only downfall of the evening was that the bar closed at 2. I have really adjusted to this open til atleast 4 thing the bars have going on in NYC... But fear not, there were still drinks to be made and games to be played! FINALLY... WE HAD 4 PEOPLE FOR SPADES! Yes, that's right, it is that exciting. Traci, Andy, and I are game players... heavy duty game players always in search of a fourth. Joseph was our fourth that night... that glorious, ridiculous night. We awoke well rested the next afternoon. I checked my phone and saw that my mom had sent me a text: Steaks for dinner. Holy crap... life couldn't get any better. Oh, and she wanted to watch How To Train Your Dragon. Score!
It was rainning like crazy outside and I couldn't see any lines on the road, but I didn't need vision while driving because I had something stronger leading me home. Steak.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Christmas Vacation Continued...
So... when I last left off I was heading to Santa Land- a crazy place oozing the holiday spirit near College Station, TX. I wasn't going for my own personal enjoyment... especially since I was pretty hungover and nothing is better for that than millions of twinkling lights and the smell of funnel cake and horse crap :) I was going with Buddy and his family- taking the kids. They had a blast. The place is pretty cool (and I can only imagine the amount of money they make) and I got to pet a llama... so all in all it was a fantastic night!
I devoted the next day to last minute X-mas shopping with the brother. I have to say- Joseph and I come up with some pretty amazing gift ideas. We always have to throw something funny in the mix... a surprise... a bit of flair! For those of you who know Tony, my pops, you can only imagine the joy he has gotten out of little stocking stuffers like the "positive thoughts keychain" and the oh-so-useful golfball monogrammer! Ha! Oh but I think our best was when we bought some cheesy and cheap lingerie and wrapped it up- of course labling it to our mom from our dad... CLASSIC! The look on their faces was the real gift- and Joseph and I benefited from it most. Ahhhh tis the season! This year we kept it pretty basic... replentish the usuals...
I don't know if yall are aware, but for the last 3-4 years it has become a running joke for my mom to buy the family matching pajamas that we are required to wear on X-mas Eve. It started as a heart-warming fun joke thought up by mom and my aunt but has turned into a tradition. I'd be lying if I said I didn't get a kick out of it, as well as new pajamas. We put on our pj's, watch the Muppet Christmas Carol, and call it a night. This is a present to my mom (and probably the best one since she loves promoting family togetherness).
Speaking of togetherness... I get my yearful at X-mas time because after we do our thing, we pack up and load into a vehicle and drive 6 hours to Louisiana. This year was especially exciting since my dad decided to be moody and not talk to us from the start. He also didn't seem to hear me when I said I was hungry or had to pee. We were allowed those luxuries when he was damn well ready. We never found out the reason for his increasing unpleasantness but as soon as we got to my aunt's he was allll smiles.
Both sides of the family are in LA and Christmas with each couldn't be more different. Not that one side is more enjoyable or anything- it's open bar vs. dumplings... tough call. We do the hugs and the "how are yous," re-address all the inside jokes, bring up embarassing memories, and make promises to see eachother more than once a year (which we never keep). After a day with each side we loaded back up and started the journey back. Dad resumed his silence, Mom read, Joseph gamed, and I bitched :) GOOD TIMES!
I devoted the next day to last minute X-mas shopping with the brother. I have to say- Joseph and I come up with some pretty amazing gift ideas. We always have to throw something funny in the mix... a surprise... a bit of flair! For those of you who know Tony, my pops, you can only imagine the joy he has gotten out of little stocking stuffers like the "positive thoughts keychain" and the oh-so-useful golfball monogrammer! Ha! Oh but I think our best was when we bought some cheesy and cheap lingerie and wrapped it up- of course labling it to our mom from our dad... CLASSIC! The look on their faces was the real gift- and Joseph and I benefited from it most. Ahhhh tis the season! This year we kept it pretty basic... replentish the usuals...
I don't know if yall are aware, but for the last 3-4 years it has become a running joke for my mom to buy the family matching pajamas that we are required to wear on X-mas Eve. It started as a heart-warming fun joke thought up by mom and my aunt but has turned into a tradition. I'd be lying if I said I didn't get a kick out of it, as well as new pajamas. We put on our pj's, watch the Muppet Christmas Carol, and call it a night. This is a present to my mom (and probably the best one since she loves promoting family togetherness).
Speaking of togetherness... I get my yearful at X-mas time because after we do our thing, we pack up and load into a vehicle and drive 6 hours to Louisiana. This year was especially exciting since my dad decided to be moody and not talk to us from the start. He also didn't seem to hear me when I said I was hungry or had to pee. We were allowed those luxuries when he was damn well ready. We never found out the reason for his increasing unpleasantness but as soon as we got to my aunt's he was allll smiles.
Both sides of the family are in LA and Christmas with each couldn't be more different. Not that one side is more enjoyable or anything- it's open bar vs. dumplings... tough call. We do the hugs and the "how are yous," re-address all the inside jokes, bring up embarassing memories, and make promises to see eachother more than once a year (which we never keep). After a day with each side we loaded back up and started the journey back. Dad resumed his silence, Mom read, Joseph gamed, and I bitched :) GOOD TIMES!
Friday, January 14, 2011
The Fairytale Homecoming
As soon as I landed in Houston I noticed I had a voicemail from my brother, Joseph. He has such a way with words... It said, "Hey Sara (in a dull and irritated tone that lasted the entire message)- where the hell are you? Your plane landed early. We are at baggage claim. Hurry up." So I took my sweet time getting to baggage claim... with that kind of motivation who could blame me? And there I see him- sweatpants, camo jacket, trucker hat, Crocs and socks- my fashion savvy little bro :) He didn't get up- just chewed on his toothpick. I knew he was just trying to act cool... but I could see him fighting back the tears of happiness to see me. HAHAHA! "I didn't know you were going to be here to pick me up!" I said. Joseph cut his eyes at me and replied, "Well I wasn't planning on coming home until tomorrow but mom made me leave early so I could be here. For you." Once again, HAHAHAHAHA! I didn't see my mom anywhere, then Joseph pointed her out- she was standing in an athletic position in front of the escalator she was sure I would be riding up to baggage claim- camera ready. It was really cute. So I went and waited for my bag. 10 minutes later I was ready so I walked up to her- still eyeballing the escalator poised and ready. She was so excited. There were tears and hugs and camera flashes. Then she told Joseph to carry my bag. HAHAHAHAHA! We start walking out and I expected to head to the parking lot- but no- mom had also made dad come on the pick-up so it was a full on family affair. While they were inside he went and picked up breakfast sandwiches and juice for us.
I really wanted to get home and take a nap... but it was only 11 a.m. so everyone else was ready to go. I had to go see my kiddos first thing- I missed them! I was so worried they wouldn't remember me- it wasn't that I had been gone soooo long, but come on- little people change their favorites daily and I had to defend my title from over 2,000 miles away! It was the best seeing all of them when I pulled into the driveway. Elly came running and yelling my name. Addy acted like she wasn't sure it was me- she kept touching my face. But then I couldn't put either one of them down. Emma and Will showed me the new puppy and wanted piggy-back rides like old times. It was perfect.
I was so ready to nap after that but mom and I went shopping instead. Joseph and dad stayed home and napped. Really? Mom and I had a good time. And then she informed me that there would be Caesar salad and boudin for dinner. HOLY CRAP! WHAT A GREAT DAY SO FAR! And it was a Monday. Do you know what that means? TRIVIA AT EINSTEIN'S!!!!!
Joseph, his buddy Kevin, me, and Buddy all piled up and headed to Einstein's. We were meeting up with a group of people and planning for complete domination. We didn't do so hot at the trivia part but I feel like we nailed the socialization and consumption. And really... that's what trivia is all about :) I was most excited to see my bestest friend and partner in crimeTrivia Traci. She hates that name. So I use it as much as I can. I couldn't wait to do my job and help her haul all her heavy ass equipment and make it all fit in the back of her tiny car. And then we drink and throw darts. We are creatures of habit. It was so good to be back.
The next day I was supposed to go shopping again- with the whole family. Needless to say I didn't make that and I had to find a ride home from the Galleria area. My Lizard came to my rescue! My friends are the greatest! She got me home in excellent time and I had time to shower and prepare for my next adventure: Santaland!
I really wanted to get home and take a nap... but it was only 11 a.m. so everyone else was ready to go. I had to go see my kiddos first thing- I missed them! I was so worried they wouldn't remember me- it wasn't that I had been gone soooo long, but come on- little people change their favorites daily and I had to defend my title from over 2,000 miles away! It was the best seeing all of them when I pulled into the driveway. Elly came running and yelling my name. Addy acted like she wasn't sure it was me- she kept touching my face. But then I couldn't put either one of them down. Emma and Will showed me the new puppy and wanted piggy-back rides like old times. It was perfect.
I was so ready to nap after that but mom and I went shopping instead. Joseph and dad stayed home and napped. Really? Mom and I had a good time. And then she informed me that there would be Caesar salad and boudin for dinner. HOLY CRAP! WHAT A GREAT DAY SO FAR! And it was a Monday. Do you know what that means? TRIVIA AT EINSTEIN'S!!!!!
Joseph, his buddy Kevin, me, and Buddy all piled up and headed to Einstein's. We were meeting up with a group of people and planning for complete domination. We didn't do so hot at the trivia part but I feel like we nailed the socialization and consumption. And really... that's what trivia is all about :) I was most excited to see my bestest friend and partner in crimeTrivia Traci. She hates that name. So I use it as much as I can. I couldn't wait to do my job and help her haul all her heavy ass equipment and make it all fit in the back of her tiny car. And then we drink and throw darts. We are creatures of habit. It was so good to be back.
The next day I was supposed to go shopping again- with the whole family. Needless to say I didn't make that and I had to find a ride home from the Galleria area. My Lizard came to my rescue! My friends are the greatest! She got me home in excellent time and I had time to shower and prepare for my next adventure: Santaland!
It gets cold? What?
I like how when I told people I was moving to New York, most reacted with "it gets cold there." No shit. That was the big concern. Did I have gloves? Did I have boots? Had I ever been in snow before? Did I know snow was cold? Geeez people... I was built for cold weather :) But yes, I had been exposed to the chilly whiteness known as "snow" a few times in my life. And I was aware that dealing with it could lead to numbness in my hands, feet, and nose. Just to be on the safe side though, I climbed into my parent's deep freeze every chance I got and lived among the popsicles and pans of eggplant parmesan for proper climate conditioning.
It got pretty chilly and I saw a sprinkle of flakes a few days, but when the actual big snow fell I was back sweating my ass off in Texas for X-mas. Ok, lets talk about that! I booked my flight to be in Texas Dec. 20- Dec. 30. That way I got to do the family thing... see my peoples... be there for my best friend's bday... and make it back to NYC for New Years! My flight out was for 6:25 a.m. so I lugged my huge bag down a few blocks to try to hail a cab at 4:30 in the morning. I was hoping for a yellow cab because then I could swipe my card, but there were none in sight. All I had was $40 and a granola bar (that I really didn't want to share). I flagged down a gypsy cab and he quoted me $44. I told him all I had was $40, including tip. He didn't look happy, but I was the only moron out in the cold at 4:30 a.m. so he decided my money was good enough and off we went! I did not offer him any of my granola bar.
I checked in, checked my bag ($25! Airline rape!), and was heading towards security when a harsh voice started yelling "Ma'am! Ma'am- can't take ya wata thru tha line- gonna have ta throw it out." I turned around and yelled "Bitch it's not water, it's juice!" Ha- no I didn't. She was frightening. But I did have plenty of time so I stood by her, took out my granola bar and my juice and had a delightful breakfast. I finished, smiled at her, and threw it away. You know, she didn't say anything but I think it bothered her I stood there and ate breakfast in front of her. Maybe I should have offered her some granola. Next time... So then I got to stand in line and remove my clothes. Yay! Its kind of fun to strip in public... and an airport is one of the only places you get to do it without people getting all upset. The library- not so much. So I'm going through the machine... I didn't take my sweatshirt off and the cute little old man checking boarding passes told me if I kept it on I'd have to be pat down by an officer. I asked him if he was going to be doing the patting... he said no and pointed to some non-appealing brutes behind him. I can be a good sport an all, but the sweatshirt promptly came off and I was allowed passage. I think I may have hurt one of the brute's feelings. Once again... next time :)
I got to my gate, picked a prime seat away from sleepers or people with kids, tried to relax, get some reading in... and then OH NO! I got a tummy ache from drinking my juice too fast because I didn't want to toss it out. Luckily I travel with antacids. As boarding time neared, I was torn between going pee before I got on the plane or waiting. I decided better safe than sorry and hit it up. I got in there just as the ladies were about to clean... and they were opening each vacant stall and giving a narrative of what they saw. One lady had a really thick Jamaican accent and was saying "Flush the damn toilets!" I laughed and said to myself, "Ms. Cleo's getting mad!" which made me laugh harder, and when she turned to me I just smiled and told her I did flush my toilet. She said thanks and I knew then my day was going to be great- because Ms. Cleo was happy with me :) I returned to my waiting area and noticed a girl had taken my seat and her hair had taken the one next to it. That's right- her hair. Her ass was in one and she had slumped over her bag in the next one, throwing her crazy long hairs all over it. I sat on the edge and tried to avoid the hairs. Its not like she seemed dirty or anything but come on... I don't know her hairs so I don't want them on me. It is finally boarding time! YAY! Guess who is my airplane seating buddy??? Sleeping crazy long hairs girl! Luckily we we made it through most of the flight with an empty seat between us. I was trying to snooze since I had been up for about 22 hours at that point, when the flight attendant informed me that there was a very long-legged gentleman who needed more leg-room and the ability to recline his seat- which was not possible back by the bathrooms. Correct me if I'm wrong, but ISN'T IT COMMON KNOWLEDGE THAT SEATS BY THE POTTY DON'T RECLINE? I don't even fly that much but I knew that! Also, this long-legged dude was wearing a suit, which means he is on a business trip- and probably not his first one, and he had a Blackberry- which I saw he could use, which means he probably knows something about the Internet- which is probably the way he check in for his flight, and he should have noticed he could look at his seat and change it if need be! COME ON MAN! And even if his personal assistant takes care of all his travel plans- she should know he has long legs and shouldn't be by the toilet. Maybe he should fire her. All in all- I didn't see why I had to be disrupted. Whatever- me and sleeping long hairs girl got another seating buddy. Woo.
We touchdown in Houston where the pilot informs us it is 76 degrees. Yuck.
It got pretty chilly and I saw a sprinkle of flakes a few days, but when the actual big snow fell I was back sweating my ass off in Texas for X-mas. Ok, lets talk about that! I booked my flight to be in Texas Dec. 20- Dec. 30. That way I got to do the family thing... see my peoples... be there for my best friend's bday... and make it back to NYC for New Years! My flight out was for 6:25 a.m. so I lugged my huge bag down a few blocks to try to hail a cab at 4:30 in the morning. I was hoping for a yellow cab because then I could swipe my card, but there were none in sight. All I had was $40 and a granola bar (that I really didn't want to share). I flagged down a gypsy cab and he quoted me $44. I told him all I had was $40, including tip. He didn't look happy, but I was the only moron out in the cold at 4:30 a.m. so he decided my money was good enough and off we went! I did not offer him any of my granola bar.
I checked in, checked my bag ($25! Airline rape!), and was heading towards security when a harsh voice started yelling "Ma'am! Ma'am- can't take ya wata thru tha line- gonna have ta throw it out." I turned around and yelled "Bitch it's not water, it's juice!" Ha- no I didn't. She was frightening. But I did have plenty of time so I stood by her, took out my granola bar and my juice and had a delightful breakfast. I finished, smiled at her, and threw it away. You know, she didn't say anything but I think it bothered her I stood there and ate breakfast in front of her. Maybe I should have offered her some granola. Next time... So then I got to stand in line and remove my clothes. Yay! Its kind of fun to strip in public... and an airport is one of the only places you get to do it without people getting all upset. The library- not so much. So I'm going through the machine... I didn't take my sweatshirt off and the cute little old man checking boarding passes told me if I kept it on I'd have to be pat down by an officer. I asked him if he was going to be doing the patting... he said no and pointed to some non-appealing brutes behind him. I can be a good sport an all, but the sweatshirt promptly came off and I was allowed passage. I think I may have hurt one of the brute's feelings. Once again... next time :)
I got to my gate, picked a prime seat away from sleepers or people with kids, tried to relax, get some reading in... and then OH NO! I got a tummy ache from drinking my juice too fast because I didn't want to toss it out. Luckily I travel with antacids. As boarding time neared, I was torn between going pee before I got on the plane or waiting. I decided better safe than sorry and hit it up. I got in there just as the ladies were about to clean... and they were opening each vacant stall and giving a narrative of what they saw. One lady had a really thick Jamaican accent and was saying "Flush the damn toilets!" I laughed and said to myself, "Ms. Cleo's getting mad!" which made me laugh harder, and when she turned to me I just smiled and told her I did flush my toilet. She said thanks and I knew then my day was going to be great- because Ms. Cleo was happy with me :) I returned to my waiting area and noticed a girl had taken my seat and her hair had taken the one next to it. That's right- her hair. Her ass was in one and she had slumped over her bag in the next one, throwing her crazy long hairs all over it. I sat on the edge and tried to avoid the hairs. Its not like she seemed dirty or anything but come on... I don't know her hairs so I don't want them on me. It is finally boarding time! YAY! Guess who is my airplane seating buddy??? Sleeping crazy long hairs girl! Luckily we we made it through most of the flight with an empty seat between us. I was trying to snooze since I had been up for about 22 hours at that point, when the flight attendant informed me that there was a very long-legged gentleman who needed more leg-room and the ability to recline his seat- which was not possible back by the bathrooms. Correct me if I'm wrong, but ISN'T IT COMMON KNOWLEDGE THAT SEATS BY THE POTTY DON'T RECLINE? I don't even fly that much but I knew that! Also, this long-legged dude was wearing a suit, which means he is on a business trip- and probably not his first one, and he had a Blackberry- which I saw he could use, which means he probably knows something about the Internet- which is probably the way he check in for his flight, and he should have noticed he could look at his seat and change it if need be! COME ON MAN! And even if his personal assistant takes care of all his travel plans- she should know he has long legs and shouldn't be by the toilet. Maybe he should fire her. All in all- I didn't see why I had to be disrupted. Whatever- me and sleeping long hairs girl got another seating buddy. Woo.
We touchdown in Houston where the pilot informs us it is 76 degrees. Yuck.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Where are you from?
I am glad to say that when I'm in conversation with new people, they don't immediatly ask me how things were back on the ranch or if I rode a horse to work. Growing up in Texas didn't taint my speech to a ridiculous degree, thank jebus. I don't hate the state... I grew up there... but I never really had an enormous amount of Texas pride. I don't dig country music, I don't think anyone should wear Wranglers, and I have no interest in cows. I'm not one of those "my state is better than your state" people. All of you with the Texas flag shower curtains or iron stars and deer antlers adorning all your walls and light fixtures- calm down. I respect that that is your style... don't get all puffy because it is not mine. So, I like the fact that people have to ask and can't just guess. Get over it.
Do you know how many people here are actually from Texas? Lots. I know of 3 in my building and I haven't even met everybody. Hmmm looks like the Alamo and unforgivable humidity aren't for everyone...
It was a while before I heard someone with a hard core New York accent. I love it. Everything that comes out of their mouth just sounds so serious- like they really mean it, or they are really angry, or someone is questioning just how much they love their sports teams.
Something that really cracks me up and entertains me to no end is the way people just air all their business out on the street. Girls bitching about their shoes, "Oh my god Shelly, I paid like $300 for these and I just broke an f'n heel in a sewer grate! Ugh! Do you think I can get the city to pay for it? They better!" Truly tragic. Then there was hungry girl, "Oh girl! Did you see the new commercial? Fresh cut potatoes with sea salt! Girl we goin to Wendys! Mmmm Hmmm- yeah girl we goin." Wow. I hope she got her fries. Oh then there was drunk guy getting kicked out of a fried chicken place at 11 a.m. His words were quite jumbled but I'm pretty sure he was denied fried chicken and that upset him greatly. I'm sure on some level we can all feel his pain. Sometimes people just need fried chicken. What's better than the shoe breakers and the hungry folks are the fighting ones. Boyfriends and girlfriends arguing over cabs, his shirt, who is going to carry her bag, where they are supposed to meet her girlfriends, him not wanting to meet her girlfriends, her crappy cooking, his mother, her refusing to go to Long Island, he didn't hold the door long enough, he took a tone so she hit him and he wants to smack her back, he was walking too fast, she ripped his favorite gold chain from his neck, he didn't notice her highlights, she wants him to take more pictures of her in Time Square, it smells outside and she is getting a headache so he needs to shut his Guido mouth up... It is priceless. And loud.
One day I hope to be causing a care-free scene on the streets of Manhattan and I hope someone gets a kick out of it as I have. Maybe they will blog about it.
Do you know how many people here are actually from Texas? Lots. I know of 3 in my building and I haven't even met everybody. Hmmm looks like the Alamo and unforgivable humidity aren't for everyone...
It was a while before I heard someone with a hard core New York accent. I love it. Everything that comes out of their mouth just sounds so serious- like they really mean it, or they are really angry, or someone is questioning just how much they love their sports teams.
Something that really cracks me up and entertains me to no end is the way people just air all their business out on the street. Girls bitching about their shoes, "Oh my god Shelly, I paid like $300 for these and I just broke an f'n heel in a sewer grate! Ugh! Do you think I can get the city to pay for it? They better!" Truly tragic. Then there was hungry girl, "Oh girl! Did you see the new commercial? Fresh cut potatoes with sea salt! Girl we goin to Wendys! Mmmm Hmmm- yeah girl we goin." Wow. I hope she got her fries. Oh then there was drunk guy getting kicked out of a fried chicken place at 11 a.m. His words were quite jumbled but I'm pretty sure he was denied fried chicken and that upset him greatly. I'm sure on some level we can all feel his pain. Sometimes people just need fried chicken. What's better than the shoe breakers and the hungry folks are the fighting ones. Boyfriends and girlfriends arguing over cabs, his shirt, who is going to carry her bag, where they are supposed to meet her girlfriends, him not wanting to meet her girlfriends, her crappy cooking, his mother, her refusing to go to Long Island, he didn't hold the door long enough, he took a tone so she hit him and he wants to smack her back, he was walking too fast, she ripped his favorite gold chain from his neck, he didn't notice her highlights, she wants him to take more pictures of her in Time Square, it smells outside and she is getting a headache so he needs to shut his Guido mouth up... It is priceless. And loud.
One day I hope to be causing a care-free scene on the streets of Manhattan and I hope someone gets a kick out of it as I have. Maybe they will blog about it.
Out and About
We were walking around our neighborhood one afternoon and passed a place that had a flyer out front for trivia on Monday nights! My heart went all a-flutter! We went and played that night. We met awesome people and came home with some fine glassware and a 2nd place title :) There happened to be a Cowboys game on that same night so after trivia we headed over to the bar, where our new friends happened to be as well. Lots of pitchers, lots of laughs, lots of new facebook friend requests later... we got an invite for an OK GO concert. We went. Fantastic!
So with a Monday night activity down... just had to fill in the rest of the week! This problem was quickly solved- come on, it's New York... Our neighborhood bar, Piper's Kilt, does trivia on Tuesdays and karaoke on Sunday. Karaoke is one of the best ways to meet people- think about it. If they sing and are great, you yell things like "hell yeah!" and hold out hands for high fives. If they suck, you pretty much do the same thing... Instant friends!
Funny thing about karaoke in this city though... most of the people that participate are musical theater stars or singer/songwriters or opera performers. Makes all us "common folk" just a little weary of getting up there and belting out a tune, but dammit, we do it!
So with a Monday night activity down... just had to fill in the rest of the week! This problem was quickly solved- come on, it's New York... Our neighborhood bar, Piper's Kilt, does trivia on Tuesdays and karaoke on Sunday. Karaoke is one of the best ways to meet people- think about it. If they sing and are great, you yell things like "hell yeah!" and hold out hands for high fives. If they suck, you pretty much do the same thing... Instant friends!
Funny thing about karaoke in this city though... most of the people that participate are musical theater stars or singer/songwriters or opera performers. Makes all us "common folk" just a little weary of getting up there and belting out a tune, but dammit, we do it!
Friday, January 7, 2011
I LOVE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION!
In life there are drivers, and there are riders. I am an awesome rider. Level 12 Golden Rider status. I can road trip like nobody's business. I make mixed CD's, I bring snacks, I know games, I can navigate, I will feed the driver Cheetos one by one so their hands can remain at 10 and 2, and I can hold my pee like a champ. Not having a car is like a dream come true. I don't need ANOTHER SET OF KEYS or have to pretend like I know how to parallel park. All I have to do is keep up with a little yellow metro card that fits oh so nicely in my wallet (brightens it up too), and I can go anywhere!
We live at the very tip-top of Manhattan in a lovely little area called Inwood. We are the last stop on the A-train, which is awesome because when in doubt... just hop on an A heading north and we can make it home from anywhere. It's quite a life saver after some wild nights down town. Did you know they even provide a wake-up service if you fall asleep and do not get off? Yes, it is true- somebody will come and yell and shake you! And people think New Yorkers aren't friendly... For the record- I have yet to take part in the complementary subway wake up service but I have seen it happen many times.
Ok, who wants to hear the story about my first subway ride? You do??! GREAT! Keep reading friends!
I was going to meet a long lost friend of mine who had been living here for years. Buddy was going to be heading to work, so I would be tackling this adventure on my own! He was nice enough to show me how to get a metro card and I totally watched a few people go through the gates so I'd know how to pass as a pro. It would NOT be me jamming up the line- I could just see it- angry people pushing and cursing and throwing things at me... calling me names like "tourist" and yelling "go back to Texas!" The horror!
Everything turned out great and a fun evening was had by all! I believe this was the night I found my roomie playing stickball in the middle of the street with some Austrailian guys and a Dominican guy around 2 a.m. Needless to say we took a cab home :)
The A-train is closest to us and pretty much gets me wherever I need to go, but sometimes certain trips call for the 1. I like the 1-train because it runs above ground a good bit so you get cell service. In my first attempt to get to the 1, I was walking...walking... looking... navigating... stopping... staring at the guy with the bloody shirt emerging from the stairwell... Yep, I was witnessing my first fresh stab wound! I wasn't really sure what to do. So I followed suit and kept walking... Then it hit me- I didn't see anyone running away with a knife, so the stabber was probably still down there. Great, I was going to be a part of another Law and Order episode... I had to think fast! I got on the train and tried to look poor and sickly. Nobody wants to stab a sick girl.
I love riding the subway!
We live at the very tip-top of Manhattan in a lovely little area called Inwood. We are the last stop on the A-train, which is awesome because when in doubt... just hop on an A heading north and we can make it home from anywhere. It's quite a life saver after some wild nights down town. Did you know they even provide a wake-up service if you fall asleep and do not get off? Yes, it is true- somebody will come and yell and shake you! And people think New Yorkers aren't friendly... For the record- I have yet to take part in the complementary subway wake up service but I have seen it happen many times.
Ok, who wants to hear the story about my first subway ride? You do??! GREAT! Keep reading friends!
I was going to meet a long lost friend of mine who had been living here for years. Buddy was going to be heading to work, so I would be tackling this adventure on my own! He was nice enough to show me how to get a metro card and I totally watched a few people go through the gates so I'd know how to pass as a pro. It would NOT be me jamming up the line- I could just see it- angry people pushing and cursing and throwing things at me... calling me names like "tourist" and yelling "go back to Texas!" The horror!
Everything turned out great and a fun evening was had by all! I believe this was the night I found my roomie playing stickball in the middle of the street with some Austrailian guys and a Dominican guy around 2 a.m. Needless to say we took a cab home :)
The A-train is closest to us and pretty much gets me wherever I need to go, but sometimes certain trips call for the 1. I like the 1-train because it runs above ground a good bit so you get cell service. In my first attempt to get to the 1, I was walking...walking... looking... navigating... stopping... staring at the guy with the bloody shirt emerging from the stairwell... Yep, I was witnessing my first fresh stab wound! I wasn't really sure what to do. So I followed suit and kept walking... Then it hit me- I didn't see anyone running away with a knife, so the stabber was probably still down there. Great, I was going to be a part of another Law and Order episode... I had to think fast! I got on the train and tried to look poor and sickly. Nobody wants to stab a sick girl.
I love riding the subway!
Sara vs. The Apartment Building
There are so many thing that I didn't expect when I moved into a building... first of all calling my new home a building. I am used to a house. My house. With one key to let me in. Thats it. Here I have a key which I must use to get me through two sets of doors... then another to let me into my apartment... plus a mail key. I can handle a separate mail key... But the other two I had some trouble differentiating between at first. Also I found myself looking like the Farside Cartoon of the kid pushing the door at the School for the Gifted when the sign says "pull" because you have to push our doors when unlocked...and clearly I tried pulling... everytime.
Next obstacle: the radiator. I grew up with central air and heat, so when that thing started hissing it just about scared the crap out of me. Then I was constantly worried about anything touching it or within close proximity catching on fire... ya'll know how much I like fire! So yes, it took some time for me to trust this loud hot thing and not peek out of my room every 15 minutes during the night to see if any of our possessions were up in flames.
Along with the radiator comes the poles that run through the kitchen and bathroom transporting boiling hot water. Yeah- step out the the shower, reach for a towel and touch one of those bad boys with bare skin... you'll only make that mistake once.
The day the guy came to fix the dishwasher made me feel like an idiot all over again. There was an obnoxious buzz so I spring to my feet and jetted to our door. The annoying buzzing did not cease and Buddy yells from his room for me to let the guy in! I yell back that there is nobody in the hall... I'm thinking more doorbell than outside buzzer. Duh- people buzz from outside... not just anyone can walk in... that's why I have so many damn keys... Ugh. I felt pretty special, I mean, I've seen Seinfeld... I should have known what was up. All in all it was a success because Bob made it indoors and the dishwasher cleans like never before. Also, any time that deafening tone plagues my ears now I can take immediate action!
Our building was advertised as having laundry available. Two tiny washers and two non-drying dryers don't cut it. They also steal your money. I prefer my corner laundromat. It has black lights. I thought that was a nice touch. I haul my bag in, load up 2 washers, snag a prime spot behind the folding station, and read. You see some pretty interesting things at the laundromat. I had a toddler try to steal my detergent and my book. Then I watched a mom strip her kids and throw all of their clothes in the machines. I also had to move a sleeping baby in a stroller to get my clothes out. I looked around to try to find the parents of this kid but I had no idea who or where they were. So I just stood there wandering whether or not I should alert anyone to my relocating the baby. Nobody seemed to give a crap so I just sent him flying down the aisle. He didn't wake. :)
Next obstacle: the radiator. I grew up with central air and heat, so when that thing started hissing it just about scared the crap out of me. Then I was constantly worried about anything touching it or within close proximity catching on fire... ya'll know how much I like fire! So yes, it took some time for me to trust this loud hot thing and not peek out of my room every 15 minutes during the night to see if any of our possessions were up in flames.
Along with the radiator comes the poles that run through the kitchen and bathroom transporting boiling hot water. Yeah- step out the the shower, reach for a towel and touch one of those bad boys with bare skin... you'll only make that mistake once.
The day the guy came to fix the dishwasher made me feel like an idiot all over again. There was an obnoxious buzz so I spring to my feet and jetted to our door. The annoying buzzing did not cease and Buddy yells from his room for me to let the guy in! I yell back that there is nobody in the hall... I'm thinking more doorbell than outside buzzer. Duh- people buzz from outside... not just anyone can walk in... that's why I have so many damn keys... Ugh. I felt pretty special, I mean, I've seen Seinfeld... I should have known what was up. All in all it was a success because Bob made it indoors and the dishwasher cleans like never before. Also, any time that deafening tone plagues my ears now I can take immediate action!
Our building was advertised as having laundry available. Two tiny washers and two non-drying dryers don't cut it. They also steal your money. I prefer my corner laundromat. It has black lights. I thought that was a nice touch. I haul my bag in, load up 2 washers, snag a prime spot behind the folding station, and read. You see some pretty interesting things at the laundromat. I had a toddler try to steal my detergent and my book. Then I watched a mom strip her kids and throw all of their clothes in the machines. I also had to move a sleeping baby in a stroller to get my clothes out. I looked around to try to find the parents of this kid but I had no idea who or where they were. So I just stood there wandering whether or not I should alert anyone to my relocating the baby. Nobody seemed to give a crap so I just sent him flying down the aisle. He didn't wake. :)
The Ultimate Puzzle
The time had come. No relaxation between driving and unloading. Thank jebus the first amazing thing I learned about New York is that you can hit up a bodega at anytime of night to restock on beer. So let the unloading party begin!
Let me give you a little insight into what we had packed in the truck- a full-sized couch, a large leather chair complete with ottoman (with one stray wheel- very annoying), 2 mattresses, 2 boxsprings, 3 dressers, a full-sized entertainment center, a small entertainment center, a 6ft bookshelf, all of my clothes and shoes, all pots and pans and plates, bowls, glasses, crockpot, toaster, liquor... blah blah blah an entire kitchen, all towels and washcloths and shampoos... same story- entire bathroom, a billion DVDs and most importantly... the Wii and Playstation with all necessary games and Guitar Hero hook-ups. Would you believe it that we didn't break a damn thing? I was super impressed.
Sooooo we got everything into the apartment, and then we just stood there. Mostly because we had no room to move. Luckily I kick ass at Tetris, so one at a time, we were able to move couches and dressers to make it to the kitchen or bathroom. We were up for over 24 hours and finally got a decent amout of crap in an appropriate spot... Night one in NYC (it was probably the afternoon really)- I sleep happily in my own bed while looking out my own window onto my own fire escape. Then I realize- great- this is a Law and Order SVU episode about to happen... but then I didn't care because I was SO DAMN TIRED.
I don't believe I mentioned this before- but Buddy had to do all the work when it came to finding an apartment, and he could not have done any better! Our apartment is WONDERFUL! Everything fits well and its easy. So what if my room is the size of your closet? :)
Let me give you a little insight into what we had packed in the truck- a full-sized couch, a large leather chair complete with ottoman (with one stray wheel- very annoying), 2 mattresses, 2 boxsprings, 3 dressers, a full-sized entertainment center, a small entertainment center, a 6ft bookshelf, all of my clothes and shoes, all pots and pans and plates, bowls, glasses, crockpot, toaster, liquor... blah blah blah an entire kitchen, all towels and washcloths and shampoos... same story- entire bathroom, a billion DVDs and most importantly... the Wii and Playstation with all necessary games and Guitar Hero hook-ups. Would you believe it that we didn't break a damn thing? I was super impressed.
Sooooo we got everything into the apartment, and then we just stood there. Mostly because we had no room to move. Luckily I kick ass at Tetris, so one at a time, we were able to move couches and dressers to make it to the kitchen or bathroom. We were up for over 24 hours and finally got a decent amout of crap in an appropriate spot... Night one in NYC (it was probably the afternoon really)- I sleep happily in my own bed while looking out my own window onto my own fire escape. Then I realize- great- this is a Law and Order SVU episode about to happen... but then I didn't care because I was SO DAMN TIRED.
I don't believe I mentioned this before- but Buddy had to do all the work when it came to finding an apartment, and he could not have done any better! Our apartment is WONDERFUL! Everything fits well and its easy. So what if my room is the size of your closet? :)
I've been saying I'd blog... so here it goes
Ok- lets start at the beginning...
It was a warm fall evening in Richmond, Texas- a Tuesday I believe- it must have been because I was not playing trivia... I had just completed a culinary masterpiece of microwaved chicken nuggets shaped like dinosaurs when the phone rang! Little did I know that this call was going to change my life forever. Ok thats mostly BS except for the possible Tuesday and the nuggets...
I needed a change in a serious kind of way and one of my very best friends had been trying to get me to come visit him in NYC for months... so I decided all of a sudden to do one better and move there. I mean really, what did I have going on in Texas besides a job and a cute house and awesome friends? Ugh, who wouldn't think twice about packing it up and moving 2000 miles away to start over? Aaaaaanyway, I broke it gently to the folks who were more than supportive from the start (and by supportive I mean terrified and tearful.) Then I started telling other ppl... co-workers, friends, strangers in the check-out at Target, my dentist, the cop writing me a hefty speeding ticket... and everyone just stared at me in disbelief. Nobody thought I would really do it. Well if that wasn't motivation in itself... :)
The day finally came where Buddy flew in, we packed up my house in a week- which I really should have been doing in the months before, but come on- it's me... and held a last minute garage sale. Next thing I know we are renting our luxury ride (a 16ft Budget Truck- holla!) and loading that baby up for a cross country adventure.
Saying goodbye was tough. My family, my babies, my bestest friend... I teared up a good bit.
October 9, 2010- we set out- Buddy, me, and Billy the dog... I think we only had to make one unscheduled stop and the only place around was a sex shop called the Lion's Den. Hilarious. We didn't shop. We made it to Mississippi the first night and camped out. Setting up a tent in pitch black wilderness is not easy. Nor is sleeping in a tent with a dog. Day two/three- got up and made our way to the Smokey Mountains (which I kept referring to as the Rocky Mountains and most ppl thought I was an idiot. That's fair.) I think this was the day we lost the gas cap and had to find an auto parts store... We did two days/nights in Smokeys- hiked, camped, drank, started fires with questionably obtained cedar- pretty much had an amazing time. Day four- parted ways with the Smokeys and headed towards Gettysberg. We camped out at Little Round Top and did historical stuff the next day. Very cool little town! From there it was only 4 hours to NYC! Well, it should have been but New Jersey is a shithole and so confusing that we backtracked for about half and hour until finally making it accross a bridge or tunnel or something... $16 for a damn toll by the way. We arrived at home after 5 days of not showering and sleeping on the ground... and then had to unpack a crapload of stuff. An entire apartments worth of stuff...
It was a warm fall evening in Richmond, Texas- a Tuesday I believe- it must have been because I was not playing trivia... I had just completed a culinary masterpiece of microwaved chicken nuggets shaped like dinosaurs when the phone rang! Little did I know that this call was going to change my life forever. Ok thats mostly BS except for the possible Tuesday and the nuggets...
I needed a change in a serious kind of way and one of my very best friends had been trying to get me to come visit him in NYC for months... so I decided all of a sudden to do one better and move there. I mean really, what did I have going on in Texas besides a job and a cute house and awesome friends? Ugh, who wouldn't think twice about packing it up and moving 2000 miles away to start over? Aaaaaanyway, I broke it gently to the folks who were more than supportive from the start (and by supportive I mean terrified and tearful.) Then I started telling other ppl... co-workers, friends, strangers in the check-out at Target, my dentist, the cop writing me a hefty speeding ticket... and everyone just stared at me in disbelief. Nobody thought I would really do it. Well if that wasn't motivation in itself... :)
The day finally came where Buddy flew in, we packed up my house in a week- which I really should have been doing in the months before, but come on- it's me... and held a last minute garage sale. Next thing I know we are renting our luxury ride (a 16ft Budget Truck- holla!) and loading that baby up for a cross country adventure.
Saying goodbye was tough. My family, my babies, my bestest friend... I teared up a good bit.
October 9, 2010- we set out- Buddy, me, and Billy the dog... I think we only had to make one unscheduled stop and the only place around was a sex shop called the Lion's Den. Hilarious. We didn't shop. We made it to Mississippi the first night and camped out. Setting up a tent in pitch black wilderness is not easy. Nor is sleeping in a tent with a dog. Day two/three- got up and made our way to the Smokey Mountains (which I kept referring to as the Rocky Mountains and most ppl thought I was an idiot. That's fair.) I think this was the day we lost the gas cap and had to find an auto parts store... We did two days/nights in Smokeys- hiked, camped, drank, started fires with questionably obtained cedar- pretty much had an amazing time. Day four- parted ways with the Smokeys and headed towards Gettysberg. We camped out at Little Round Top and did historical stuff the next day. Very cool little town! From there it was only 4 hours to NYC! Well, it should have been but New Jersey is a shithole and so confusing that we backtracked for about half and hour until finally making it accross a bridge or tunnel or something... $16 for a damn toll by the way. We arrived at home after 5 days of not showering and sleeping on the ground... and then had to unpack a crapload of stuff. An entire apartments worth of stuff...
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