Usually I don't drive my car. In fact, I don't drive it often enough that almost EVERY time I use my car, someone has left a "We Buy Junk Cars" poster or a "I'll buy your car as is. Call me. -Paul" note somewhere on it.
But yesterday I had to drive out to the suburbs for a few meetings for work. The day started out well. I met with a few people from cool organizations. I talked with a pastor for 2 hours, almost quit my job to help him with his vision for his congregation (not really, but he was very compelling), and was given homemade jam and a recipe book.
The bad part started when I tried to go home. A blizzard decided to begin and the 35 minute drive back to the city turned into a 3 1/2 hour journey of semis and honking and mini-vans swerving in and out of traffic on a one-way bridge. People get crazy around here when it snows (apparently).
Needless to say, I went home, cuddled up in some sweats, made myself some tea and curry and swore to NEVER DRIVE AGAIN. Well, until my next meeting in the suburbs...tomorrow.....
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Monday, December 8, 2008
My latest (and most sad) discoveries:
1. Coffee-Mate
The first ingredient: Corn Syrup Solids
Does anyone even want to know what that is?
2. The person that stole my bag also got my SS Card. Half of my belongings were found on the CTA bus (I found out from the cop I'm hounding), none of which were important- used up gift cards and the check card that has already been replaced. So now I'm told I'll need to pay some company monthly to make sure my identity isn't stolen. Right.
3. It costs $2.00 to rent bowling shoes for a night here, compared to the $0.50 per night in Chanute.
4. People tell me the sky is supposed to actually remain the same shade of gray for the next 3 months that it has been the past few weeks.
BUT these discoveries won't get the best of me. Why? 2 reasons: one of my favorite people is visiting this weekend AND I get to go home in a week! Woohoo Kansas!
The first ingredient: Corn Syrup Solids
Does anyone even want to know what that is?
2. The person that stole my bag also got my SS Card. Half of my belongings were found on the CTA bus (I found out from the cop I'm hounding), none of which were important- used up gift cards and the check card that has already been replaced. So now I'm told I'll need to pay some company monthly to make sure my identity isn't stolen. Right.
3. It costs $2.00 to rent bowling shoes for a night here, compared to the $0.50 per night in Chanute.
4. People tell me the sky is supposed to actually remain the same shade of gray for the next 3 months that it has been the past few weeks.
BUT these discoveries won't get the best of me. Why? 2 reasons: one of my favorite people is visiting this weekend AND I get to go home in a week! Woohoo Kansas!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Joining the Culture of Indifference- Well, On the Train Anyway
I haven't been listening to music on the train. I saw this sketch once of people on the train- all of different races, ages and gender- sitting next to each other. They all had earphones in, and under the sketch it read: Our Culture of Indifference.
So, I decided that I would be the one not listening to music. Always available to meet someone, talk, read or just enjoy the ride. However, in the months that I've lived here- I'm pretty sure I've never talked to anyone on the morning train. You just don't. Everyone is focused and in their business casual mode- not to be thrown off by a conversation.
Today I thought I would try listening to music with the rest of them. Instead of feeling the isolation from humanity that I predicted (yes I'm a bit dramatic- but I am reading 1984), I found myself bobbing my head back and forth, tapping my foot, walking to the beat- either slow and paced or quick and confident- and discovering a slight skip in my step. I don't even like the Shins and I listened to an entire cd, and somehow feel ready for the day!
I'm thinking maybe this is just because I have never done it. The emotional high after the never-ending denial. So I'm trying it the entire week. I'll let you know how it goes.
So, I decided that I would be the one not listening to music. Always available to meet someone, talk, read or just enjoy the ride. However, in the months that I've lived here- I'm pretty sure I've never talked to anyone on the morning train. You just don't. Everyone is focused and in their business casual mode- not to be thrown off by a conversation.
Today I thought I would try listening to music with the rest of them. Instead of feeling the isolation from humanity that I predicted (yes I'm a bit dramatic- but I am reading 1984), I found myself bobbing my head back and forth, tapping my foot, walking to the beat- either slow and paced or quick and confident- and discovering a slight skip in my step. I don't even like the Shins and I listened to an entire cd, and somehow feel ready for the day!
I'm thinking maybe this is just because I have never done it. The emotional high after the never-ending denial. So I'm trying it the entire week. I'll let you know how it goes.
Friday, November 21, 2008
The Joke's on YOU Mr. Bag Stealer
You just robbed one of the poorest white girls in Chicago. Good one.
So, somehow, in the 2 minutes that I got up from my desk to walk 2 doors down, pee, wash my hands, and walk back, someone stole my bag from inside our office at our desk. This is the 3rd time this has happened. They always take our bags, travel to the 1st floor, run down the long corridor behind the mailroom and then dump the leftovers in the trashcan. So luckily, I got my bag, 2 books, CTA pass, carmex, leftover rice and GPS back. But they did succeed in stealing my wallet, including my family pictures, a receipt from Spain, my first hunting license, check cards that can't be accessed without pin numbers and (sadly) my Kansas driver's license. They also stole my co-workers camera, my bobbie pins, and the keys to our office and building....
I'm sure they were disappointed.
I called the police to report what happened (for the 3rd time) and I was half expecting some sort of CSI crime investigation. I mean, I have the bag- can't they search for fingerprints or something and discover that it's the man working next door, or the cleaning guy, or the guy that's always walking buy smiling at me? AND, of course, that he's "Wanted" in 6 other states. But no, they told me we should try to set up a camera or something....that he hopes we "nail that guy". Thanks Mr. Policeman- for nothing. Lame.
So now, I've discovered that I don't have the paperwork to get a DL here in Illinois- and they have no sympathy for people who've been robbed...it is, after all, Chicago. And either way, you still need documents X,Y, AND Z. Sorry.
Now, I'm suspicious of everyone. It had to have been someone watching to see when we left....so maybe on this floor...or someone who knows that I pee everyday before I eat my peanut butter and jelly sandwich...
So, somehow, in the 2 minutes that I got up from my desk to walk 2 doors down, pee, wash my hands, and walk back, someone stole my bag from inside our office at our desk. This is the 3rd time this has happened. They always take our bags, travel to the 1st floor, run down the long corridor behind the mailroom and then dump the leftovers in the trashcan. So luckily, I got my bag, 2 books, CTA pass, carmex, leftover rice and GPS back. But they did succeed in stealing my wallet, including my family pictures, a receipt from Spain, my first hunting license, check cards that can't be accessed without pin numbers and (sadly) my Kansas driver's license. They also stole my co-workers camera, my bobbie pins, and the keys to our office and building....
I'm sure they were disappointed.
I called the police to report what happened (for the 3rd time) and I was half expecting some sort of CSI crime investigation. I mean, I have the bag- can't they search for fingerprints or something and discover that it's the man working next door, or the cleaning guy, or the guy that's always walking buy smiling at me? AND, of course, that he's "Wanted" in 6 other states. But no, they told me we should try to set up a camera or something....that he hopes we "nail that guy". Thanks Mr. Policeman- for nothing. Lame.
So now, I've discovered that I don't have the paperwork to get a DL here in Illinois- and they have no sympathy for people who've been robbed...it is, after all, Chicago. And either way, you still need documents X,Y, AND Z. Sorry.
Now, I'm suspicious of everyone. It had to have been someone watching to see when we left....so maybe on this floor...or someone who knows that I pee everyday before I eat my peanut butter and jelly sandwich...
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Wanted: Band Members
Well, it's been snowing here. And if my camera wasn't lame and broken, there would be beautiful pictures posted below. But alas, no camera = no pictures.....
Today I decided to start a band. I don't care what instrument I get to play or what kind of music we create. As long as it's honest and compelling. I forgot my CDs and had to listen to the radio all the way to Downers Grove and back again- and it was awful. The Christian station was even worse. SO- as Ghandi would have it- I've decided to BE the change I want to see in the world and start a band.
Any takers? :)
Today I decided to start a band. I don't care what instrument I get to play or what kind of music we create. As long as it's honest and compelling. I forgot my CDs and had to listen to the radio all the way to Downers Grove and back again- and it was awful. The Christian station was even worse. SO- as Ghandi would have it- I've decided to BE the change I want to see in the world and start a band.
Any takers? :)
Sunday, November 9, 2008
One Man's Mission to Promote Peace
I read Three Cups of Tea awhile ago, but never posted about it. I didn't want to read it, because it seemed like everyone on the train was reading it- and I'm SO not about trendy.....hehe....but I got over it and LOVED it. Read it- it'll change your life.
I liked Mortenson's way of telling the story. Very straightforward, very practical, non-political. It is very compelling, a quick read and will give you a hope for peace in the middle of the "war against terrorism."
There was one chapter in the book that was fairly political, because he was in Afghanistan during 9/11. These exerpts are from that chapter, so if they overwhelm you, know that this is the only section of the book like this:
Mortenson talked of the tribal traditions that attended conflict in the region- the way warring parties held a jirga before doing battle, to discuss how many losses they were willing to accept, since the victors were expected to care for the widows and orphans of the rivals they have vanquished. 'People in that part of the world are used to death and violence,’ Mortenson said. ‘And if you tell them, ‘We’re sorry your father died, but he died a martyr so Afghanistan could be free,’ and if you offer them compensation and honor their sacrifice, I think people will support us, even now. But the worst thing you can do is what we’re doing- ignoring the victims. To call them ‘collateral damage’ and not even try to count the numbers of the dead. Because to ignore them is to deny they ever existed, and there is no greater insult in the Islamic world. For that, we will never be forgiven.’
'…as best as I can tell, we’ve launched 114 Tomahawk cruise missiles into Afghanistan so far. Now take the cost of one of those missiles tipped with a Raytheon guidance system, which I think is about $840,000. For that much money, you could build dozens of schools that could provide tens of thousands of students with a balanced nonextremist education over the course of a generation. Which do you think will make us more secure?'
I liked Mortenson's way of telling the story. Very straightforward, very practical, non-political. It is very compelling, a quick read and will give you a hope for peace in the middle of the "war against terrorism."
There was one chapter in the book that was fairly political, because he was in Afghanistan during 9/11. These exerpts are from that chapter, so if they overwhelm you, know that this is the only section of the book like this:
Mortenson talked of the tribal traditions that attended conflict in the region- the way warring parties held a jirga before doing battle, to discuss how many losses they were willing to accept, since the victors were expected to care for the widows and orphans of the rivals they have vanquished. 'People in that part of the world are used to death and violence,’ Mortenson said. ‘And if you tell them, ‘We’re sorry your father died, but he died a martyr so Afghanistan could be free,’ and if you offer them compensation and honor their sacrifice, I think people will support us, even now. But the worst thing you can do is what we’re doing- ignoring the victims. To call them ‘collateral damage’ and not even try to count the numbers of the dead. Because to ignore them is to deny they ever existed, and there is no greater insult in the Islamic world. For that, we will never be forgiven.’
'…as best as I can tell, we’ve launched 114 Tomahawk cruise missiles into Afghanistan so far. Now take the cost of one of those missiles tipped with a Raytheon guidance system, which I think is about $840,000. For that much money, you could build dozens of schools that could provide tens of thousands of students with a balanced nonextremist education over the course of a generation. Which do you think will make us more secure?'
Friday, November 7, 2008
I Heart Friday!
Exciting things from today:
Our phone lines have been down all week (so I've been sending BILLIONS of emails) and today !8! AT&T vans were parked on our block outside. Yesterday they said that a cable just got wet. Somehow, I'm thinking it's something more involved than that.....
I watched this with no sound and learned how I would tie a scarf if I were a beautiful, stupid boy model.
I read Writers on Writing during my lunch break and am going to a live reading tonight after work. If I don't become a writer this week, I probably never will!
Oscar, the maintenance guy for the building, came in our office for like an hour and put up plastic over our windows. [Anything different is exciting, ok?]
I discovered that Jewel has Sushi! I probably shouldn't ever justify buying it, but I figure maybe someday- if I'm having one of those days- I'll splurge on the $6 container of California Rolls!
AND- I'm officially planning another lazy weekend. The weather is supposed to be terrible- 40 degrees and raining both Saturday and Sunday- so movies, tea and books here I come!
Our phone lines have been down all week (so I've been sending BILLIONS of emails) and today !8! AT&T vans were parked on our block outside. Yesterday they said that a cable just got wet. Somehow, I'm thinking it's something more involved than that.....
I watched this with no sound and learned how I would tie a scarf if I were a beautiful, stupid boy model.
I read Writers on Writing during my lunch break and am going to a live reading tonight after work. If I don't become a writer this week, I probably never will!
Oscar, the maintenance guy for the building, came in our office for like an hour and put up plastic over our windows. [Anything different is exciting, ok?]
I discovered that Jewel has Sushi! I probably shouldn't ever justify buying it, but I figure maybe someday- if I'm having one of those days- I'll splurge on the $6 container of California Rolls!
AND- I'm officially planning another lazy weekend. The weather is supposed to be terrible- 40 degrees and raining both Saturday and Sunday- so movies, tea and books here I come!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Proud To Be An American...Finally
Yes, my co-worker Susan (who took this picture) really was this close!
This feeling of pride is due to 2 wonderful people: Obama and my sister Amanda.
President Obama, because I think he actually will bring about change. If not through his policies, through his ability to awaken the American people again to who we want to be...and what we need to do to get there. I can actually see myself living in this country again and working hard to help people come together. YES WE CAN!!!
Amanda, because she drove all the way back to Kansas just to vote. To make her voice heard. And to do what she thought was right- even though every else told her she was wrong. And I think that's really cool....And we can learn a lot from people like her!
Here's to the Hope and Change of 2009!
Monday, November 3, 2008
I love my life...
It's true. The past few weeks have been stressful, long and exhausting. But now, today, I am SO happy because:
This past weekend my new favorite person visited me.
Tomorrow I will be in Grant Park when Obama accepts his nomination for president.
Tonight I'm eating Jambalaya for dinner and *hopefully* starting a new book.
Election day I get to do what I thought my job was going to be all along: collecting stories from everyday people who are struggling with their health care.
AND- this evening I will be baking something from scratch!
This past weekend my new favorite person visited me.
Tomorrow I will be in Grant Park when Obama accepts his nomination for president.
Tonight I'm eating Jambalaya for dinner and *hopefully* starting a new book.
Election day I get to do what I thought my job was going to be all along: collecting stories from everyday people who are struggling with their health care.
AND- this evening I will be baking something from scratch!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Oh Brian
So my friend Brian is visiting this week because he and his brother are going to the Children's Film Festival. I am posting about him, because he HATES blogs- even though he has one....
Last night Brian and I ate at our favorite Thai place- which is probably only our favorite because we haven't tried any other ones.
We also attempted a puzzle, which he quit because he said that "it's only fun for old people" while slamming down yet another piece that didn't fit.
Then Brian proceeded to read aloud from one of the Christian novels in our house. He picked his favorite paragraphs and together, we traveled through the lives of Summer, Peter and Gross Mutter- who we finally figured out at the end was not a slobbering monster- it was the German mother-in-law. (I know you wanted to know).
My favorite conversations from the night:
"No Brian. I wouldn't date Jesus."
"Yeah- you'd be so thirsty. He'd always be turning your water into wine. And you'd be like, 'Jesus, stop it! I'm so thirsty and I just want some water!' It'd be awful."
"Yeah."
"Brian, you're not even helping!"
"I am morally against this."
"It's just taking apart the puzzle pieces so we can put it back together!"
"That makes no sense. Why would I do that? I can't do that."
"I hope my wedding and funeral have the exact same service. You know, like ridiculously large pictures of my face in the front of the church. And don't worry, you'll be the flower girl."
"I don't want to be the flower girl."
"Last time you made me swear you could be the flower girl!"
"Oh. Oh yeah! Ok- yeah I want to be the flower girl. And for your funeral: an excerpt about Gross Mutter!"
Last night Brian and I ate at our favorite Thai place- which is probably only our favorite because we haven't tried any other ones.
We also attempted a puzzle, which he quit because he said that "it's only fun for old people" while slamming down yet another piece that didn't fit.
Then Brian proceeded to read aloud from one of the Christian novels in our house. He picked his favorite paragraphs and together, we traveled through the lives of Summer, Peter and Gross Mutter- who we finally figured out at the end was not a slobbering monster- it was the German mother-in-law. (I know you wanted to know).
My favorite conversations from the night:
"No Brian. I wouldn't date Jesus."
"Yeah- you'd be so thirsty. He'd always be turning your water into wine. And you'd be like, 'Jesus, stop it! I'm so thirsty and I just want some water!' It'd be awful."
"Yeah."
"Brian, you're not even helping!"
"I am morally against this."
"It's just taking apart the puzzle pieces so we can put it back together!"
"That makes no sense. Why would I do that? I can't do that."
"I hope my wedding and funeral have the exact same service. You know, like ridiculously large pictures of my face in the front of the church. And don't worry, you'll be the flower girl."
"I don't want to be the flower girl."
"Last time you made me swear you could be the flower girl!"
"Oh. Oh yeah! Ok- yeah I want to be the flower girl. And for your funeral: an excerpt about Gross Mutter!"
Monday, October 27, 2008
Song for Sarah
Well, Palin said that she could see Russia from her window....and now we know they can see her too.....
Song for Sarah
(I'm sorry for another political one- it was just too funny not to post!)
Song for Sarah
(I'm sorry for another political one- it was just too funny not to post!)
Friday, October 24, 2008
Lame Molly
That's all I have to say about the last post.
On a much more positive note:
My brother Anthony's birthday is today! He is 15 and had a party last night with some of his friends. My parents being the ornery people that they are encouraged and helped him fork 2 different people's yards in the neighborhood. What cool parents, huh? :)
In one of the yards, my mom put horse poop next to every fork so that when the person went to get the forks out of the ground, they would have to step in horse poop! Genius!
I wonder if pranks like that would go over well here in Chicago....:)
Also: My friend Derik came and visited last week/weekend and it was awesome. I thought he should have an honorable mention in a post. And a picture of the fun fest we created! :)
Yes, this is ELMO. No, I have no idea why there was an ELMO in the Chicago Hot Dog place at 2 a.m. But don't worry, we took full advantage of him being there....
Again, no idea. I think we were looking at a 4D painting in the art show we went to? WHO CARES! We look AWESOME!
Love, love love these two! :)
On a much more positive note:
My brother Anthony's birthday is today! He is 15 and had a party last night with some of his friends. My parents being the ornery people that they are encouraged and helped him fork 2 different people's yards in the neighborhood. What cool parents, huh? :)
In one of the yards, my mom put horse poop next to every fork so that when the person went to get the forks out of the ground, they would have to step in horse poop! Genius!
I wonder if pranks like that would go over well here in Chicago....:)
Also: My friend Derik came and visited last week/weekend and it was awesome. I thought he should have an honorable mention in a post. And a picture of the fun fest we created! :)
Yes, this is ELMO. No, I have no idea why there was an ELMO in the Chicago Hot Dog place at 2 a.m. But don't worry, we took full advantage of him being there....Again, no idea. I think we were looking at a 4D painting in the art show we went to? WHO CARES! We look AWESOME!
Love, love love these two! :)
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Warning: Pity Party Ahead
So, I haven't been doing my budget because I knew that during the past few months I've spent more money than I should have. But today, I sat down and tackled the past 2 month's worth of expenses...and much to my surprise....I've actually lived within my means.
However, I had originally formed my budget with the assumption that I was making $950/month. After looking at my bank statements today, I realized that my salary is only $802/month. Whoops. I had been calculating my salary before taxes. With my rent, gas and utilities averaging around $600/month and food and bills (phone) averaging around $200/month. I officially have $2 extra at the end of the month to spend on life....
After discovering this, I tried to remain calm. I returned to the office, where I'm supposed to be calling people asking for money- got really overwhelmed and turned down by the only call I made, managed to jam up the printer and have ink explode all over my hands (almost on my white jacket I just bleached last night) while no one in the office even noticed, and listened to a machine from Bank of America on the phone for 1/2 hour only to realize that they don't allow people to change their PIN numbers over the phone.
So my pride has officially taken the passenger's seat to necessity. I qualified for food stamps, but didn't want to get them, because I didn't feel like a "vow of poverty" was quite the same as real poverty. But now that I have about $2 extra cash a month and a lot of stress....I'm considering sprinting to the Social Security building to apply.
At this point, I'm ready to go home, eat my leftover red curry, watch Wheel of Fortune (which has become a nightly ritual) and breath....
However, I had originally formed my budget with the assumption that I was making $950/month. After looking at my bank statements today, I realized that my salary is only $802/month. Whoops. I had been calculating my salary before taxes. With my rent, gas and utilities averaging around $600/month and food and bills (phone) averaging around $200/month. I officially have $2 extra at the end of the month to spend on life....
After discovering this, I tried to remain calm. I returned to the office, where I'm supposed to be calling people asking for money- got really overwhelmed and turned down by the only call I made, managed to jam up the printer and have ink explode all over my hands (almost on my white jacket I just bleached last night) while no one in the office even noticed, and listened to a machine from Bank of America on the phone for 1/2 hour only to realize that they don't allow people to change their PIN numbers over the phone.
So my pride has officially taken the passenger's seat to necessity. I qualified for food stamps, but didn't want to get them, because I didn't feel like a "vow of poverty" was quite the same as real poverty. But now that I have about $2 extra cash a month and a lot of stress....I'm considering sprinting to the Social Security building to apply.
At this point, I'm ready to go home, eat my leftover red curry, watch Wheel of Fortune (which has become a nightly ritual) and breath....
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Oh Goodness
"The definition of insanity is: Doing the same thing and expecting different results." -Einstein
This is why we need health care reform. Not more of the same. Lame last night McCain. Maybe I should let him take the calls on our helpline.....
On a happier note: I have successfully managed to do nothing work-related for the entire morning. This is the second time this has happened. My friend James introduced me to these "mental holidays" and it will probably, slowly, ruin any chance of me climbing up that career ladder. But it makes me feel like I can breathe- and now I can use the next 5 hours to be productive! (I'm convinced that people in the US should do 4 or 5 hour work days- we waste so much time anyway, and then we could hang out more with people we care about during the day!)
And an even happier note: I'M GOING TO ARKANSAS TOMORROW!!!
This is why we need health care reform. Not more of the same. Lame last night McCain. Maybe I should let him take the calls on our helpline.....
On a happier note: I have successfully managed to do nothing work-related for the entire morning. This is the second time this has happened. My friend James introduced me to these "mental holidays" and it will probably, slowly, ruin any chance of me climbing up that career ladder. But it makes me feel like I can breathe- and now I can use the next 5 hours to be productive! (I'm convinced that people in the US should do 4 or 5 hour work days- we waste so much time anyway, and then we could hang out more with people we care about during the day!)
And an even happier note: I'M GOING TO ARKANSAS TOMORROW!!!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
It's Been Awhile
So I promise, no soul-moving, life-changing, or deeply important things today. Only self-deprecating, everyday stories....
This morning the trains were late- so far, normal- and everyone was in a hurry. The packed trains kept passing the crowd by, who was getting more and more frustrated. Just yesterday we had a staff meeting where we were reminded that someone needs to always be here at 9. (Since I'm usually the one here at 9, I'm assuming that they're referring to the 2 times I've been late). So this morning, I was feeling the anxiety that the business-casuals being passed by the train were feeling....
My first train arrived, we all herded in and packed on, and we made it to the transfer station. Everyone is in a hurry during rush hour in the mornings, but for those in an extra state of "hurriedness" they mandate the right side of the escalators for standing people and the left for the crazies to walk/run/leap up. Well, as I was making my way up the left side, I kept imagining what would happen if just one person on the right swung their elbow just right, knocking down their fellow left-side and causing a domino effect of people down the way.
Somehow in the middle of my day-dreaming, BAM! I completely fall. I still have no idea how it happened. But I have a large bruise on my knee and part of my toenail gone, so I know it happen. And the funny part was, as I was literally laying on the left side of the escalator, people continued standing, staring ahead. I guess it's normal for a curly-headed girl to be sprawled out, face-down on the escalator during rush hour. Thanks business casuals. There was one older woman that asked "Honey, are you alright?" Pridefully, I picked myself up and with my head held high muttered an "Oh yeah, I'm fine." Right Molly- because this happens all the time.
And then I make my way up the rest of the escalator, limping and missing part of a toenail, to begin my morning here in good ol' Chicago.
This morning the trains were late- so far, normal- and everyone was in a hurry. The packed trains kept passing the crowd by, who was getting more and more frustrated. Just yesterday we had a staff meeting where we were reminded that someone needs to always be here at 9. (Since I'm usually the one here at 9, I'm assuming that they're referring to the 2 times I've been late). So this morning, I was feeling the anxiety that the business-casuals being passed by the train were feeling....
My first train arrived, we all herded in and packed on, and we made it to the transfer station. Everyone is in a hurry during rush hour in the mornings, but for those in an extra state of "hurriedness" they mandate the right side of the escalators for standing people and the left for the crazies to walk/run/leap up. Well, as I was making my way up the left side, I kept imagining what would happen if just one person on the right swung their elbow just right, knocking down their fellow left-side and causing a domino effect of people down the way.
Somehow in the middle of my day-dreaming, BAM! I completely fall. I still have no idea how it happened. But I have a large bruise on my knee and part of my toenail gone, so I know it happen. And the funny part was, as I was literally laying on the left side of the escalator, people continued standing, staring ahead. I guess it's normal for a curly-headed girl to be sprawled out, face-down on the escalator during rush hour. Thanks business casuals. There was one older woman that asked "Honey, are you alright?" Pridefully, I picked myself up and with my head held high muttered an "Oh yeah, I'm fine." Right Molly- because this happens all the time.
And then I make my way up the rest of the escalator, limping and missing part of a toenail, to begin my morning here in good ol' Chicago.
Friday, September 12, 2008
A More Perfect Union
Obama does a wonderful job of speaking to my soul. I'm not sure how he does it, but everything he says resonates with something deep within me....and this morning was no different:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWe7wTVbLUU&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWe7wTVbLUU&feature=related
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Stressed?
If you want to know how people deal with stress in the city, ride the public transportation. At some point during your ride most likely something will break down, hesitate or sling you from side to side. Last night I got on the train and the usual 10 minutes it takes to get from downtown to my apartment turned into a 45 minute ride.
The girl sitting on the other end of the car continued talking to her boyfriend about supermodels. About how they can't eat, how they're really not stick-skinny (obviously it's just the camera that gives them that effect) and she just can't get over....
The couple sitting in the middle of the car start creating their own CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) slogans. "If you want to add annoyance to your long, frustrating day at work, take the train!"
The girl on the end kept staring at the floor, sitting in the same position with her hipster skirt and jacket placed just so. I wish I knew what was playing on her iPod to keep her sitting that still, staring at that same spot, with no expression for the entire ride....
And finally, the boy across from me. He kept mumbling curse words, banging his head on the back of his chair and then (my favorite part of course) taking out his lighter to burn the bottom of his jeans. Over and over again.
I tend to just sit in a kind of lethargic state, staring into nothingness and thinking about the past. Today the rain made this impossible not to do. I was at a training and sometime during my third glass of Ugandan Chai (that I smuggled into the country club in my purse), my mind wandered back to Uganda. Sitting in the hut with the doors open, listening to Dr. Kim talk about water pumps and agricultural ideas: solutions for practical problems. Then the rain would come and we'd all stop and listen. There's no rain like African rain. And as I snap back into how to solicit money from "major gift donors" I ask myself, what am I doing here?
The girl sitting on the other end of the car continued talking to her boyfriend about supermodels. About how they can't eat, how they're really not stick-skinny (obviously it's just the camera that gives them that effect) and she just can't get over....
The couple sitting in the middle of the car start creating their own CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) slogans. "If you want to add annoyance to your long, frustrating day at work, take the train!"
The girl on the end kept staring at the floor, sitting in the same position with her hipster skirt and jacket placed just so. I wish I knew what was playing on her iPod to keep her sitting that still, staring at that same spot, with no expression for the entire ride....
And finally, the boy across from me. He kept mumbling curse words, banging his head on the back of his chair and then (my favorite part of course) taking out his lighter to burn the bottom of his jeans. Over and over again.
I tend to just sit in a kind of lethargic state, staring into nothingness and thinking about the past. Today the rain made this impossible not to do. I was at a training and sometime during my third glass of Ugandan Chai (that I smuggled into the country club in my purse), my mind wandered back to Uganda. Sitting in the hut with the doors open, listening to Dr. Kim talk about water pumps and agricultural ideas: solutions for practical problems. Then the rain would come and we'd all stop and listen. There's no rain like African rain. And as I snap back into how to solicit money from "major gift donors" I ask myself, what am I doing here?
Monday, August 25, 2008
Consistency = Best Friend
The other day in that same park where all crazy experiences happen, I met a man from (I think) Jamaica. He approached me and instead of saying hello, like I would to meet someone new, he asks me "Have we met before?" Great. I don't do well with lame introductions like this.
No, I'm sure we haven't.
"Well do ya have a smoke?"
Nope. Sorry.
"I can see ya busy. I don't mean to bawtha ya. I'm sorry."
No- you're not bothering me. I'm just on the phone. So I can't talk right now!
"Ok, I'll come back then."
Great.
After I'm off the phone, he returns.
"What's ya name, love?"
Oh, Molly.
"I grew up with a gawl called Molly. She be tiny. And beautiful. And I lawved her. But she gone off an got mawrried now."
And that was our interaction. And now I see him like every other day! And we always have the same conversation. He asks my name, I tell him. He tells me what a small, beautiful girl that Molly he grew up with was. Tells me how he loved her. And then we keep walking.
I think we'll be best friends someday. He's one of the only people I see consistently, strangely. I haven't had those everyday people yet: that guy on the 8:33 train with the blue book or that woman on the corner of Wabash and Roosevelt at 8:56 with her Starbucks coffee and pink razor phone. Hopefully soon. I could use some normalcy.
No, I'm sure we haven't.
"Well do ya have a smoke?"
Nope. Sorry.
"I can see ya busy. I don't mean to bawtha ya. I'm sorry."
No- you're not bothering me. I'm just on the phone. So I can't talk right now!
"Ok, I'll come back then."
Great.
After I'm off the phone, he returns.
"What's ya name, love?"
Oh, Molly.
"I grew up with a gawl called Molly. She be tiny. And beautiful. And I lawved her. But she gone off an got mawrried now."
And that was our interaction. And now I see him like every other day! And we always have the same conversation. He asks my name, I tell him. He tells me what a small, beautiful girl that Molly he grew up with was. Tells me how he loved her. And then we keep walking.
I think we'll be best friends someday. He's one of the only people I see consistently, strangely. I haven't had those everyday people yet: that guy on the 8:33 train with the blue book or that woman on the corner of Wabash and Roosevelt at 8:56 with her Starbucks coffee and pink razor phone. Hopefully soon. I could use some normalcy.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Jamaica or Jesus?
I went to a Jamaican festival this weekend with Brian and Jessica. I got free tickets from these guys that work next to our office- and I thought it would be incredible. While the atmosphere was great- who doesn't like people with dreads, dressed in bright colors, talking about Bob Marley like he's Mother Theresa?- the music surprised us. We stayed for a few of the bands, which ended up being gospel singers- or something like it. They just kept shouting and rapping and all I could make out was "Lawd Jesus Christ" over and over. People around us were swaying and dancing and singing. The lone 3 (cool white kids in the back): we watched awkwardly and then left during what the guy at the gate shouted was "the best part of the whole day!" He couldn't believe it. But we didn't believe him. So we left anyway.
We also watched this on Sunday:
http://movies.nytimes.com/movie/452047/Man-on-Wire/overview
It was quite good. I told Brian it had better be the best movie I had seen in a long time to pay $10 at some independent film theater just to see it. And it was. The main character challenges the viewer to live each day creatively. Not living on past successes or past ideas. But to create new adventures and dreams for today. He reminded me that I could make my life as beautiful and refreshing as I wanted. And I intend to try.
And for tonight:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0052311/trailers-screenplay-vi33489177
I doubt it will be as interesting as the night with the rain and the dancing and the Chicago movie. But, it is in the same place- so maybe the "excitement magic" hasn't worn off yet!
We also watched this on Sunday:
http://movies.nytimes.com/movie/452047/Man-on-Wire/overview
It was quite good. I told Brian it had better be the best movie I had seen in a long time to pay $10 at some independent film theater just to see it. And it was. The main character challenges the viewer to live each day creatively. Not living on past successes or past ideas. But to create new adventures and dreams for today. He reminded me that I could make my life as beautiful and refreshing as I wanted. And I intend to try.
And for tonight:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0052311/trailers-screenplay-vi33489177
I doubt it will be as interesting as the night with the rain and the dancing and the Chicago movie. But, it is in the same place- so maybe the "excitement magic" hasn't worn off yet!
Friday, August 8, 2008
Tell Me Your Story- I'm Dying to Know
Sometimes I think I have this written on my forehead. Granted, many times I'll seek after it. I meet people and ask questions, make eye contact and listen attentively. I want to know what their struggles are, where they've come from, what they hope for.
But there are some people out there that offer their story without any invitation. This happened twice the other day when I was downtown.
I had been craving McDonald's for a few weeks (don't judge me...I know you are....) and sat down next to a woman reading. Before I take my first bite of processed, fried chicken shaped like a nugget this man rams into the back of me. He's a larger man, scruffy with a loud laugh. He says "Watch out! Chunky guy coming through!" and sits next to me. Until I finished my last french fry this guy talked. I asked no questions, made no eye contact and still he continued with his slurred speech and trucker jokes. He told me every scary story from driving a truck that I never wanted to know. One involved a woman pulling up next to his truck one night in a parking lot, acting like her car didn't work, climbing into his truck with nothing but an overcoat on. Apparently she was a "hooker that was wanted by the law." Others were about wanted killers. Who tells these stories the first time they meet someone? They continued until the bits of cheeseburger stuck in his scruff and spewed on my arm were too much for me. As I was leaving, he told me to always have my cell phone with me on the road. Thanks. And then told me we'd see each other soon, because "You never know where I'll turn up. We might see each other real soon." Awesome.
Then I walk past a woman sitting on a ledge asking people for a meal. I walked by her like I do many of the people on the street. Don't they know I am only living off a stipend? I don't have a salary either. Then I realized that she wasn't asking for money, booze or time. Just a meal. Easy enough. So I went back thinking, I'll run into Potbelly and get her something and still make my train. Instead, she tells me that she can only eat certain types of food because she has no teeth and a sensitive stomach. Her story continues all the while I'm thinking about my train. I didn't have time to walk 6 blocks to the nearest whatever restaurant to get her whatever type of food, so I thrust $5 at her, apologize and run to the train. Then I wonder how many people she does that too? Everyone's in a hurry- so I doubt anyone agrees to walk 1/2 a mile to the restaurant. I'm mad at her- beggar's can't be choosers- right? Somewhere in the midst of our conversation I forgot she was capable of having an opinion- I don't even like Potbelly's. But all I could think was "She should eat whatever I give her, because she's lucky I even stopped." Oh brother. In my mind, she's not even a person. Just an annoyance that took up too much time and my $5 (which could get me a fast-n-fresh pizza that would last for 2 meals)! Who have I become?
People and their stories. I suppose everyone you meet has one, but we're too busy to hear them. I blame it on technology and our equating time with money. Maybe. Or maybe we just don't want to know that people can't afford to eat or that truck drivers have no one to talk to (so when they do have someone to talk to, they have to tell them everything). I don't know.
But I do know that I need to practice genuine listening, because I obviously have forgotten how.
But there are some people out there that offer their story without any invitation. This happened twice the other day when I was downtown.
I had been craving McDonald's for a few weeks (don't judge me...I know you are....) and sat down next to a woman reading. Before I take my first bite of processed, fried chicken shaped like a nugget this man rams into the back of me. He's a larger man, scruffy with a loud laugh. He says "Watch out! Chunky guy coming through!" and sits next to me. Until I finished my last french fry this guy talked. I asked no questions, made no eye contact and still he continued with his slurred speech and trucker jokes. He told me every scary story from driving a truck that I never wanted to know. One involved a woman pulling up next to his truck one night in a parking lot, acting like her car didn't work, climbing into his truck with nothing but an overcoat on. Apparently she was a "hooker that was wanted by the law." Others were about wanted killers. Who tells these stories the first time they meet someone? They continued until the bits of cheeseburger stuck in his scruff and spewed on my arm were too much for me. As I was leaving, he told me to always have my cell phone with me on the road. Thanks. And then told me we'd see each other soon, because "You never know where I'll turn up. We might see each other real soon." Awesome.
Then I walk past a woman sitting on a ledge asking people for a meal. I walked by her like I do many of the people on the street. Don't they know I am only living off a stipend? I don't have a salary either. Then I realized that she wasn't asking for money, booze or time. Just a meal. Easy enough. So I went back thinking, I'll run into Potbelly and get her something and still make my train. Instead, she tells me that she can only eat certain types of food because she has no teeth and a sensitive stomach. Her story continues all the while I'm thinking about my train. I didn't have time to walk 6 blocks to the nearest whatever restaurant to get her whatever type of food, so I thrust $5 at her, apologize and run to the train. Then I wonder how many people she does that too? Everyone's in a hurry- so I doubt anyone agrees to walk 1/2 a mile to the restaurant. I'm mad at her- beggar's can't be choosers- right? Somewhere in the midst of our conversation I forgot she was capable of having an opinion- I don't even like Potbelly's. But all I could think was "She should eat whatever I give her, because she's lucky I even stopped." Oh brother. In my mind, she's not even a person. Just an annoyance that took up too much time and my $5 (which could get me a fast-n-fresh pizza that would last for 2 meals)! Who have I become?
People and their stories. I suppose everyone you meet has one, but we're too busy to hear them. I blame it on technology and our equating time with money. Maybe. Or maybe we just don't want to know that people can't afford to eat or that truck drivers have no one to talk to (so when they do have someone to talk to, they have to tell them everything). I don't know.
But I do know that I need to practice genuine listening, because I obviously have forgotten how.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
I have recently developed 2 new fetishes. Gilmore Girls and Iced Coffee. They have managed to completely change my life since Friday. I don't know if I like it. I talk excessively about everything and nothing and spend a lot of money.
My job is getting progressively more busy, which has been nice. Today I've been *place here a nice name for commanded* to attend a press conference with the esteemed (hated) Governor Blagojevich. He's talking about health care, so we need to be present. It would be like attending a Bush press conference. Well known, but not liked. So you almost feel privileged, but then remember who it is you're listening to. If I was Shane Claiborne I would paint my chest and shout revolutionary things at him. Instead I'll sit in the back and take notes with the other business casual youngins.
Oh life.
My job is getting progressively more busy, which has been nice. Today I've been *place here a nice name for commanded* to attend a press conference with the esteemed (hated) Governor Blagojevich. He's talking about health care, so we need to be present. It would be like attending a Bush press conference. Well known, but not liked. So you almost feel privileged, but then remember who it is you're listening to. If I was Shane Claiborne I would paint my chest and shout revolutionary things at him. Instead I'll sit in the back and take notes with the other business casual youngins.
Oh life.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Dancing in the Rain....With the Crazies
In the summer here, they show movies in Grant Park on Tuesdays. Last night they showed Blues Brothers, a perfect Chicago movie, so I decided to go. We went 2 hours early and still the place was packed. Every time the camera was on something from Chicago, or Chicago was mentioned, or even hinted at, the crowd went wild with screams and chants and laughter and clapping. It was more entertaining watching the people than anything.
Then the rain came. It was during one of the last scenes where the band finally plays a show to raise $5,000. They played a song about Chicago and then it began to downpour. Instead of heading for shelter like advised, people threw down their umbrellas, rushed towards the screen (like it was a real concert) and starting flailing their arms about. The crazies love their Chicago! People were dancing and singing and whirling about- it was fantastic! Then people started taking their clothes off and running around....I thought we were all going to die at any moment because the lightning was so crazy, we were in a field with a huge movie projector and screen and holding umbrellas in the air- but I guess people thought death by dancing was the perfect way to go.
We watched the rest of the movie in the rain, yelling and singing with the rest of them. After it was over, a ring-leader of the crazies raises both arms straight up in the air, shaking his fists, and yells "To the fountain!" They then ran to the fountain for a sort of after-the-show-dance party.
There are times when I think I'm living in a movie here in Chicago. This was one of them.
Then the rain came. It was during one of the last scenes where the band finally plays a show to raise $5,000. They played a song about Chicago and then it began to downpour. Instead of heading for shelter like advised, people threw down their umbrellas, rushed towards the screen (like it was a real concert) and starting flailing their arms about. The crazies love their Chicago! People were dancing and singing and whirling about- it was fantastic! Then people started taking their clothes off and running around....I thought we were all going to die at any moment because the lightning was so crazy, we were in a field with a huge movie projector and screen and holding umbrellas in the air- but I guess people thought death by dancing was the perfect way to go.
We watched the rest of the movie in the rain, yelling and singing with the rest of them. After it was over, a ring-leader of the crazies raises both arms straight up in the air, shaking his fists, and yells "To the fountain!" They then ran to the fountain for a sort of after-the-show-dance party.
There are times when I think I'm living in a movie here in Chicago. This was one of them.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Dancing Queen
This weekend was full of dancing and singing. On Friday we went to a bar where an 80s cover band was playing and it was AWESOME. I knew every song (and there was no shame because everyone else did too- or pretended to) and we sang and danced and loved life. Oh the 80s. If I didn't love the 60s so much, I would live in the 80s. Maybe.
Then Sunday I went to Pitchfork.
http://www.pitchforkmusicfestival.com/sunday.php
I definitely danced and sang the ENTIRE day again. :)
Some of the favorites:
http://www.myspace.com/boniver
http://www.myspace.com/thedodos
http://www.myspace.com/hellohighplaces
http://www.myspace.com/machinegong
http://youtube.com/watch?v=AIMVxQy0mCU
Thursday, July 17, 2008
AmeriCorps
This week I went to a training for AmeriCorps. It was so nice to be around people who could talk about poverty, politics and books we were reading. However, I felt like I was signing my life away for a year. Scary. We had to take an oath and everything!
A few "scary" quotes:
"I don't know if you realized it, but you signed this piece of paper I'm holding in my hand. That means I don't have to answer that question. You should've read it closer."
"If you choose to do that, we will come after your money and your position. So you choose."
"Yes, we understand he was just in a bike wreck. We can't stop you from leaving. But you won't be sworn in. Sorry."
And some fun ones:
"I can't wait to write 'Ended Poverty in 2008' on my resume at the end of this."
"I LOVE it when people attribute everything to fate. I got spit on today. Then I changed my shirt. Then this woman complimented my shirt. Then my self-esteem was boosted. It was fate."
"But I'll feel bad if I tell you. Ok, think of the crudest, dirtiest, rudest, most disturbing thing you can and then multiply it by 50. And that's what this joke is like. Here I'll just tell you."
"Don't read that book. It's like you make one bad decision, then you and everyone else's lives are ruined. And then you die."
"Remember when I said I loved that people could talk about poverty? I take it back. I feel like my head is going to explode! Let's just watch something predictable."
"Q: So what does it take for a guy to impress you? *wink, wink*A: Well, my boyfriend always makes fun of me because I'm so different than most girls....Ok cya."
A few "scary" quotes:
"I don't know if you realized it, but you signed this piece of paper I'm holding in my hand. That means I don't have to answer that question. You should've read it closer."
"If you choose to do that, we will come after your money and your position. So you choose."
"Yes, we understand he was just in a bike wreck. We can't stop you from leaving. But you won't be sworn in. Sorry."
And some fun ones:
"I can't wait to write 'Ended Poverty in 2008' on my resume at the end of this."
"I LOVE it when people attribute everything to fate. I got spit on today. Then I changed my shirt. Then this woman complimented my shirt. Then my self-esteem was boosted. It was fate."
"But I'll feel bad if I tell you. Ok, think of the crudest, dirtiest, rudest, most disturbing thing you can and then multiply it by 50. And that's what this joke is like. Here I'll just tell you."
"Don't read that book. It's like you make one bad decision, then you and everyone else's lives are ruined. And then you die."
"Remember when I said I loved that people could talk about poverty? I take it back. I feel like my head is going to explode! Let's just watch something predictable."
"Q: So what does it take for a guy to impress you? *wink, wink*A: Well, my boyfriend always makes fun of me because I'm so different than most girls....Ok cya."
Monday, July 14, 2008
City Girl? I think not....
I have had the weirdest experiences since I've been here. Maybe it's because I'm dramatic and make everything sound more glamorous than it really was. Or maybe I'm just a weird-experience magnet. Either way, a few adventures thus far:
Taste of Chicago: 1 million people, lots of food, gang fight that Emily and I walked briskly away from, shooting at the train station. Awesome.
I found a new park last weekend. Found a nice, quiet spot where no one was sitting. As I sat in the grass to start reading, I looked down and noticed a funny (and disgusting) thing. Flying ants had literally attacked my legs and feet. I was covered! I then realized why no one was sitting there- there had been a drink left over from sometime and was attracting these nasty things. I had to go home to scrub them off the bottom of my feet.
I was in the same park (you'd think I would've learned my lesson) and laying on a blanket in a non-ant-infested section. 3 yipping dogs come whizzing around the corner and circling around everyone's blankets and every tree they could find. They were wearing leashes, but no owner was to be found. Finally the old woman that was the owner came around the corner, dressed in a floppy hat and red lipstick, and began screaming at the dogs. "Louie! Come back!" she was screaming in a low, gutteral (is that a word?) voice- which sounded weird coming from her. But she refused to move from the spot she was sitting. Meanwhile the stupid dogs were peeing on this poor latin family's toys. I decided to mind my own business and lay back down. Somehow the family thought I was the one screaming. I guess I look like I have a low voice? They through a ball right on top of me! And then here came the dogs! Bounding over me (literally) and all over my blanket! Thanks latin family. I don't think I'll be returning to that park.
I met someone that lived in Chanute for a few months last summer! I thought he was lying until he started naming the hotels and streets.
My friend Brian and I decided we should watch High Fidelity since he had never seen it (and I thought this was ridiculous- If you haven't seen it, it'll change your life when you do). After 2 Blockbusters, $5 and 20 minutes of driving to find parking we got back to the apartment. Only to find that my computer wouldn't read the DVD player. My landlord graciously offered her DVD player, but sadly no screen. I didn't have the heart to tell her, so we decided to make sure the DVD even worked. We put it in and it played (well the numbers went up anyway). When I tried to eject the stupid thing, the tray came out with no DVD! It ate the DVD and it was somewhere in the body of the thing. We tried tipping it upside down and shaking it. Nothing worked. Finally, we had to take the whole thing apart, get the DVD out and then put it all back together. By the time that was finished it was too late to start the movie!
Saturday I lost my car. Literally could not find it. I walked up and down almost every street around my apartment for like half and hour, and nothing. The night before I had driven around trying to find parking, and by the time I finally parked it, all the streets were jumbled in my head! So I walked to the train station later and not half a block away (but south instead of north where I'd been checking) was my car! Lame Chicago. Lame.
Then this weekend, I waited half an hour for a train that was never going to come. They didn't run on the weekends. Good thing Doug and Danae called, because I probably would've waited another hour or so, thinking they only ran every 2 hours or something.
I have established an interesting relationship with my landlord/landlord's daughter. Her parents are technically the landlords, but they don't speak English. So she did all the negotiating in the beginning. The other night we spent like 3 hours together. I died her hair black, she fed me beans, tortillas and cheese.
I'm not even going to mention the number of times I've gotten on the wrong train/bus, walked down the wrong street or pointed someone else in the wrong direction. That would be embarrasing.
We'll see what this week brings!
Taste of Chicago: 1 million people, lots of food, gang fight that Emily and I walked briskly away from, shooting at the train station. Awesome.
I found a new park last weekend. Found a nice, quiet spot where no one was sitting. As I sat in the grass to start reading, I looked down and noticed a funny (and disgusting) thing. Flying ants had literally attacked my legs and feet. I was covered! I then realized why no one was sitting there- there had been a drink left over from sometime and was attracting these nasty things. I had to go home to scrub them off the bottom of my feet.
I was in the same park (you'd think I would've learned my lesson) and laying on a blanket in a non-ant-infested section. 3 yipping dogs come whizzing around the corner and circling around everyone's blankets and every tree they could find. They were wearing leashes, but no owner was to be found. Finally the old woman that was the owner came around the corner, dressed in a floppy hat and red lipstick, and began screaming at the dogs. "Louie! Come back!" she was screaming in a low, gutteral (is that a word?) voice- which sounded weird coming from her. But she refused to move from the spot she was sitting. Meanwhile the stupid dogs were peeing on this poor latin family's toys. I decided to mind my own business and lay back down. Somehow the family thought I was the one screaming. I guess I look like I have a low voice? They through a ball right on top of me! And then here came the dogs! Bounding over me (literally) and all over my blanket! Thanks latin family. I don't think I'll be returning to that park.
I met someone that lived in Chanute for a few months last summer! I thought he was lying until he started naming the hotels and streets.
My friend Brian and I decided we should watch High Fidelity since he had never seen it (and I thought this was ridiculous- If you haven't seen it, it'll change your life when you do). After 2 Blockbusters, $5 and 20 minutes of driving to find parking we got back to the apartment. Only to find that my computer wouldn't read the DVD player. My landlord graciously offered her DVD player, but sadly no screen. I didn't have the heart to tell her, so we decided to make sure the DVD even worked. We put it in and it played (well the numbers went up anyway). When I tried to eject the stupid thing, the tray came out with no DVD! It ate the DVD and it was somewhere in the body of the thing. We tried tipping it upside down and shaking it. Nothing worked. Finally, we had to take the whole thing apart, get the DVD out and then put it all back together. By the time that was finished it was too late to start the movie!
Saturday I lost my car. Literally could not find it. I walked up and down almost every street around my apartment for like half and hour, and nothing. The night before I had driven around trying to find parking, and by the time I finally parked it, all the streets were jumbled in my head! So I walked to the train station later and not half a block away (but south instead of north where I'd been checking) was my car! Lame Chicago. Lame.
Then this weekend, I waited half an hour for a train that was never going to come. They didn't run on the weekends. Good thing Doug and Danae called, because I probably would've waited another hour or so, thinking they only ran every 2 hours or something.
I have established an interesting relationship with my landlord/landlord's daughter. Her parents are technically the landlords, but they don't speak English. So she did all the negotiating in the beginning. The other night we spent like 3 hours together. I died her hair black, she fed me beans, tortillas and cheese.
I'm not even going to mention the number of times I've gotten on the wrong train/bus, walked down the wrong street or pointed someone else in the wrong direction. That would be embarrasing.
We'll see what this week brings!
Monday, July 7, 2008
Oh Chicago
Nothing is as I thought it would be. My living situation, my job, the way I have handled change- all of it has been so different. Not necessarily good or bad. Just different.
I'm ready for all of this to be normal! To go to my apartment and feel at home, to know what to do at my job and to feel confident about living on my own.
They say it'll come with time. We'll see how that goes.
I'm ready for all of this to be normal! To go to my apartment and feel at home, to know what to do at my job and to feel confident about living on my own.
They say it'll come with time. We'll see how that goes.
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