I haven't been to Louisiana in a year, so I'm pretty excited to have gotten my ticket and solidified my Christmas Break (okay, Winter Break...I'm Jewish, I know). I'm going to be home for 2 weeks! Then, back to Cleveland for a night before I drive to Phil's for New Year's Eve. Should be a nice time away from the Land O' Cleve. I just wish it was crawfish season...
Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Is vanity the reason i'm posting this?
You Are Pumpkin Pie |
 You're the perfect combo of uniqueness and quality. Those who like you are looking for something (someone!) special. |
Monday, November 28, 2005
home, sweet home.
I got back to Cleveland at tonight around 5:30. Hell of a drive. Actually, I must admit that it was pretty painless. (I-80 rocks! no construction, minimal tolls. I love you, I-80. I-76, go to hell. I'm done with you.) But, driving for 6 1/2 hours is pretty crappy no matter how amazing the conditions.
My Thanksgiving week was great. I loved seeing all my family, and getting away from everything was exactly what I needed.
Unfortunately, Que (my belly...yes, I named my belly...from Suzi-Q...get it?) also loved getting away from everything, namely exercising. I ran a few times, but it was all pretty damn pathetic. The good news is that now I appreciate my normal state of being so much more...not exercising makes me antsy and lethargic at the same time, if that's even possible.
I took a couple of pictures, but for some reason I didn't get shutter happy this time around...I'll post the few I have soon.
I went to Philadelphia and Connecticut for lessons. Connecticut was with the teacher at Yale, who I really enjoyed. I was surprised at how much I learned, actually. I haven't had that productive of a lesson in way too long of a time, and I didn't expect that. I really hope Yale works out. The good news is that the teacher liked me and my playing. Bad news is that they only have one flute spot. Typical. Argh. I'm not going to get my hopes pinned on this one option though, I promise. If Yale doesn't happen this year, then perhaps the next year. Life is long, right? Isn't that what they say?
I'm having a glass of white wine that I had been saving for a 'special occasion'. Being at home alone and blogging is just about right, don't you think?
Baruch got fed way too much turkey on Thanksgiving and the day after, and then consequently got the appropriately named 'mudbutt'. She's basically feeling better now, I think, although the car ride today probably didn't help anything.
Oh. OH! I'm going to play in an orchestra again. It's been since March. It's no big deal...I just got asked to play 2nd flute in the Akron Symphony Family Concert on December 11, but I'm excited nonetheless. Imagine...playing with OTHER people! yeah! And yes, I get paid!!!
To answer the deserved inquiries about typing without a screen...there was a screen, of course...it was just completely fuzzy and so I could see general shapes (enough to get me to my Blogger 'Dashboard), but accurately seeing the type was another story. Hence my hesitation to write anything of length.
Moronic moment of the week: Taking the wrong bus from Port Authority to Mountain Lakes. Ending up in Bayonne (drug capital of New Jersey, I'm told?). Having to ride the bus back to Port Authority. Finally catching the right bus back at 1 (after buying 2 more $8 tickets) in the morning. very very sad. I thought I was capable of functioning rather well in the city, but that episode proved otherwise. I would have been fine with staying out until 1 if we had been just hanging out in the city, but attempting to take the 10:30 back, and then ending up on the 1 am bus is just LAME! In my defence, I had been to both Philadelphia and New York in one day, and was absolutely exhuasted mentally and physically. But-I know, I know...it's still pretty dumb. But, why do they change the platforms after 10 pm anyway? Just to screw with people like me, I know. But why else? I don't get it. I want my $16 back.
Derek--I would have loved to run with you. Sorry it didn't work out this time. I'll give you some advance notice next time around and we'll do it.
Santa Claus parades: Anyone heard of them? When driving from New Jersey to Connecticut on the supposedly busiest traveling day of the year, I encountered ZERO delays...until I got into the small town where I was headed...at which point I sat gridlocked for an hour while I craned my neck to watch the parade go by. I had left PLENTY of time for extensive traffic jams, so I was fine...and perhaps I would have been better off leaving a bit later. Anxiety might have been higher, but I wouldn't have had to wait for the parade. I was very patient though; not a usual virtue of mine. I'm working on it though, and was quite proud I managed to make it through the wait without jumping out of the car and hurrying the middle school marching band through their routine.
Cool moment of the week: I found out that my cousin, David Strathairn, won best actor in the Venice Film Festival for his new movie Good Night, and Good Luck. I haven't seen him in years, so I feel a bit funny claiming him, but I did spend a summer in Vermont with him and his kid, Tay...called him Uncle David back then, so I've spent the last 10 years saying he was my uncle and then having to correct myself. Cousin. He's a cousin. Got it. Anyway, let's hope this gives some hints to the Academy Award nominators. It's time he got some real recognition!
I was in Philadelphia for 2 hours, but I must admit that I really love that city. I don't know what it is...the brotherly love, perhaps? Ahhh...I love being a cornball sometimes. I can't move there yet; I don't have the resources or the will; it would just be Cleveland all over again, without friends or students. But someday, I know I'll live there. The place calls to me.
I think that's a pretty good rundown of my week away. Thanks for staying patient, oh loyal readers. I'm back, and I'll be writing.
My Thanksgiving week was great. I loved seeing all my family, and getting away from everything was exactly what I needed.
Unfortunately, Que (my belly...yes, I named my belly...from Suzi-Q...get it?) also loved getting away from everything, namely exercising. I ran a few times, but it was all pretty damn pathetic. The good news is that now I appreciate my normal state of being so much more...not exercising makes me antsy and lethargic at the same time, if that's even possible.
I took a couple of pictures, but for some reason I didn't get shutter happy this time around...I'll post the few I have soon.
I went to Philadelphia and Connecticut for lessons. Connecticut was with the teacher at Yale, who I really enjoyed. I was surprised at how much I learned, actually. I haven't had that productive of a lesson in way too long of a time, and I didn't expect that. I really hope Yale works out. The good news is that the teacher liked me and my playing. Bad news is that they only have one flute spot. Typical. Argh. I'm not going to get my hopes pinned on this one option though, I promise. If Yale doesn't happen this year, then perhaps the next year. Life is long, right? Isn't that what they say?
I'm having a glass of white wine that I had been saving for a 'special occasion'. Being at home alone and blogging is just about right, don't you think?
Baruch got fed way too much turkey on Thanksgiving and the day after, and then consequently got the appropriately named 'mudbutt'. She's basically feeling better now, I think, although the car ride today probably didn't help anything.
Oh. OH! I'm going to play in an orchestra again. It's been since March. It's no big deal...I just got asked to play 2nd flute in the Akron Symphony Family Concert on December 11, but I'm excited nonetheless. Imagine...playing with OTHER people! yeah! And yes, I get paid!!!
To answer the deserved inquiries about typing without a screen...there was a screen, of course...it was just completely fuzzy and so I could see general shapes (enough to get me to my Blogger 'Dashboard), but accurately seeing the type was another story. Hence my hesitation to write anything of length.
Moronic moment of the week: Taking the wrong bus from Port Authority to Mountain Lakes. Ending up in Bayonne (drug capital of New Jersey, I'm told?). Having to ride the bus back to Port Authority. Finally catching the right bus back at 1 (after buying 2 more $8 tickets) in the morning. very very sad. I thought I was capable of functioning rather well in the city, but that episode proved otherwise. I would have been fine with staying out until 1 if we had been just hanging out in the city, but attempting to take the 10:30 back, and then ending up on the 1 am bus is just LAME! In my defence, I had been to both Philadelphia and New York in one day, and was absolutely exhuasted mentally and physically. But-I know, I know...it's still pretty dumb. But, why do they change the platforms after 10 pm anyway? Just to screw with people like me, I know. But why else? I don't get it. I want my $16 back.
Derek--I would have loved to run with you. Sorry it didn't work out this time. I'll give you some advance notice next time around and we'll do it.
Santa Claus parades: Anyone heard of them? When driving from New Jersey to Connecticut on the supposedly busiest traveling day of the year, I encountered ZERO delays...until I got into the small town where I was headed...at which point I sat gridlocked for an hour while I craned my neck to watch the parade go by. I had left PLENTY of time for extensive traffic jams, so I was fine...and perhaps I would have been better off leaving a bit later. Anxiety might have been higher, but I wouldn't have had to wait for the parade. I was very patient though; not a usual virtue of mine. I'm working on it though, and was quite proud I managed to make it through the wait without jumping out of the car and hurrying the middle school marching band through their routine.
Cool moment of the week: I found out that my cousin, David Strathairn, won best actor in the Venice Film Festival for his new movie Good Night, and Good Luck. I haven't seen him in years, so I feel a bit funny claiming him, but I did spend a summer in Vermont with him and his kid, Tay...called him Uncle David back then, so I've spent the last 10 years saying he was my uncle and then having to correct myself. Cousin. He's a cousin. Got it. Anyway, let's hope this gives some hints to the Academy Award nominators. It's time he got some real recognition!
I was in Philadelphia for 2 hours, but I must admit that I really love that city. I don't know what it is...the brotherly love, perhaps? Ahhh...I love being a cornball sometimes. I can't move there yet; I don't have the resources or the will; it would just be Cleveland all over again, without friends or students. But someday, I know I'll live there. The place calls to me.
I think that's a pretty good rundown of my week away. Thanks for staying patient, oh loyal readers. I'm back, and I'll be writing.
Wednesday, November 23, 2005
in the big apple
i'm in new york visiting relatives for thanksgiving, andthe computer situation is pretty rought. i'm typing without a screen right now...
so, sorry in advance for the lack of updates over the holiday. i'll be back in cleveland on monday, full steam ahdead.
happy thanksgiving!
so, sorry in advance for the lack of updates over the holiday. i'll be back in cleveland on monday, full steam ahdead.
happy thanksgiving!
Monday, November 21, 2005
Sunday, November 20, 2005
PR!!
I completed my second Half Marathon this morning. Thanks to Liz, my own personal pace bunny (she even wore pink!), I ended up finishing a bit faster than the River Run. 39 seconds faster, to be exact...so I gained 3 seconds per mile, and this time the course wasn't all downhill. Pretty cool, I think. I ended up with a time of 1:54:06 by their clock, and 1:53:55 by my watch (there weren't any chips, so I just started my watch a bit before we crossed the starting line). So, 8:42/m, or thereabouts! I'm happy with it; I would have been happy to just beat 2 hours since I haven't really been doing any kind of distance running lately.
I have SO many pictures to post...more of my bike and some more happy birthday pictures...but it'll have to wait because I need to teach soon.
I have SO many pictures to post...more of my bike and some more happy birthday pictures...but it'll have to wait because I need to teach soon.
Saturday, November 19, 2005
Birthday...
I had a really wonderful day yesterday. I just did my normal practicing and exercising, and had a rehearsal with my pianist...but, went out to breakfast with my Phil, and had an awesome time at the Cheesecake Factory with friends. Phil couldn't come due to a gig, but we had enjoyed the beginning part of the day together, so it ended up working out just fine.
I swam 2000 in the morning, and then intended to go out for a 4 mile run (since I'm 24...get it?)...or, maybe 5m, so I would have 'one to grow on'...
So-Bryce, Kurt, and Liz came over before dinner and we went for a run through Forest Hills Park and it ended up being way more than I had desired (probably 6m), but once I got over the fact that I was running a WHOLE EXTRA MILE (why does that little mile feel so huge when you aren't mentally prepared to conquer it?), it was an invigorating run.
Dinner was great, and I got phone calls and messages all day from friends (blog-buddies included!) and relatives. All in all, a beautiful birthday. I have trouble with birthdays ('special' days in general) because I feel all this pressure for things to go perfectly...I'm getting over it (I realize it's a ridiculous expectation), but I must say that yesterday surpassed all expectations irregardless.
I swam 2000 in the morning, and then intended to go out for a 4 mile run (since I'm 24...get it?)...or, maybe 5m, so I would have 'one to grow on'...
So-Bryce, Kurt, and Liz came over before dinner and we went for a run through Forest Hills Park and it ended up being way more than I had desired (probably 6m), but once I got over the fact that I was running a WHOLE EXTRA MILE (why does that little mile feel so huge when you aren't mentally prepared to conquer it?), it was an invigorating run.
Dinner was great, and I got phone calls and messages all day from friends (blog-buddies included!) and relatives. All in all, a beautiful birthday. I have trouble with birthdays ('special' days in general) because I feel all this pressure for things to go perfectly...I'm getting over it (I realize it's a ridiculous expectation), but I must say that yesterday surpassed all expectations irregardless.
this AWESOME trunk we found on the street...it closes and looks like a regular trunk...all drawers still work, there's a place for shoes, hangers are intact, locks work...it's totally great. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it, but it's making a pretty cool display piece in the meantime. :) It needs a lot of work to get the rust off and be properly restored, but that'll happen later...
Thursday, November 17, 2005
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!
Here's my new bike--the timing couldn't have been better with my birthday being tomorrow...eh...3 1/2 hours from now.Better pictures of me and bike later, I promise. I'm home alone though, and can't quite get the coordination of the timed picture to be able to include myself (not having a tripod doesn't help anything either). I love this bike. When I first got to the shop to pick it up, I was still having Cervelo woes, but that's over. I'm already feeling guilty for even having thought of another bike.
This thing is beautiful.
Sorry Bolder...I'm still using my Terry seat for a while...yours is definitely pretty 'hawt' though. In time, in time. I'm already in the midst of making a Hanukkah wish list of accessories for my new baby. It took all of my willpower to refrain from just buying everything right now, let me tell you. I almost gave in, but then I remembered my poor, dissipating bank account. Never have I been so excited about holiday season approaching.
Of course, today it snowed for the first time of the year. I really considered going for a ride anyhow (how cold could it really be??), but I ended up just doing a bit on my trainer. Not that fun, but I still got to experiement with the gears, etc.
Love it. I love it.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
i did it! (take 2)
This evening, I filled out the paperwork (web-work?) for the Yale Doctoral Candidate application. While I was at it, I also filled out one for the University of Maryland...
This is such a change from the route I had always planned, but I think it is perhaps a good thing. Of course, I still have to get into these programs for anything to have really been altered...auditions aren't until February, so I have plenty of time to prepare/freak out/change my mind a million times. I guess the plan is to just kind of wait and see what happens on all fronts. I'm going to keep auditioning for orchestras if and when there are openings, and work towards these school auditions at the same time...whatever happens, well...it happens.
I'm being proactive about what my situation is going to be next year, so I feel good. Even if I'm petrified to move (can you believe I'm admitting that I actually like Cleveland?!), it's definitely a good thing to have these options on the table.
In other news, my bike got to the store today...but they have to put it together (imagine!), so I can't pick it up until tomorrow afternoon. BOOO!! I spent all day waiting by the phone, and then when they finally called, I didn't pick up because I was teaching and had given up all hope anyhow. But...tomorrow afternoon will be here soon enough, and I'll have my brand new awesome bike. I can't wait. I keep looking at pictures of it online. Pretty dorky, eh? Did I mention I'm excited to get this bike tomorrow??
It'll be today in 52 minutes. Perhaps I should stay up so that I can say I'm getting my bike today.
eh...
perhaps not. My (warm!) bed is calling me.
This is such a change from the route I had always planned, but I think it is perhaps a good thing. Of course, I still have to get into these programs for anything to have really been altered...auditions aren't until February, so I have plenty of time to prepare/freak out/change my mind a million times. I guess the plan is to just kind of wait and see what happens on all fronts. I'm going to keep auditioning for orchestras if and when there are openings, and work towards these school auditions at the same time...whatever happens, well...it happens.
I'm being proactive about what my situation is going to be next year, so I feel good. Even if I'm petrified to move (can you believe I'm admitting that I actually like Cleveland?!), it's definitely a good thing to have these options on the table.
In other news, my bike got to the store today...but they have to put it together (imagine!), so I can't pick it up until tomorrow afternoon. BOOO!! I spent all day waiting by the phone, and then when they finally called, I didn't pick up because I was teaching and had given up all hope anyhow. But...tomorrow afternoon will be here soon enough, and I'll have my brand new awesome bike. I can't wait. I keep looking at pictures of it online. Pretty dorky, eh? Did I mention I'm excited to get this bike tomorrow??
It'll be today in 52 minutes. Perhaps I should stay up so that I can say I'm getting my bike today.
eh...
perhaps not. My (warm!) bed is calling me.
oh, my aching butt
Freaking hill repeats. Argh.
I guess I have to get used to that if I'm going to even attempt Wildflower, eh? Why, WHY does it have to be hilly???
MY BIKE IS SUPPOSED TO GET HERE TODAY!!
Of course, it's going to snow either today or tomorrow, but I'm going to go out on it anyhow. I can't wait. I keep looking at my phone, expectantly. It's 10:48 and they haven't called yet. What's the deal??!
Friday is my birthday and I'll be officially in my mid-twenties. Not so bad, I know...but somehow the years just keep going faster and faster and it's a bit scary. I have a good day planned though, so hopefully I won't even notice that I'm going to need a cane soon.
One good thing about winter--it's SO much easier to practice. I've actually been getting things done as of late, and am much more motivated. You'd think it'd be the opposite, and I'd just want to curl into bed. But, the thing is that when it's nice outside, I jut want to go outside and enjoy the sun. When it's winter (wonderland or not), I'm totally fine with staying in my practice room...it's warm in there, afterall...
I guess I have to get used to that if I'm going to even attempt Wildflower, eh? Why, WHY does it have to be hilly???
MY BIKE IS SUPPOSED TO GET HERE TODAY!!
Of course, it's going to snow either today or tomorrow, but I'm going to go out on it anyhow. I can't wait. I keep looking at my phone, expectantly. It's 10:48 and they haven't called yet. What's the deal??!
Friday is my birthday and I'll be officially in my mid-twenties. Not so bad, I know...but somehow the years just keep going faster and faster and it's a bit scary. I have a good day planned though, so hopefully I won't even notice that I'm going to need a cane soon.
One good thing about winter--it's SO much easier to practice. I've actually been getting things done as of late, and am much more motivated. You'd think it'd be the opposite, and I'd just want to curl into bed. But, the thing is that when it's nice outside, I jut want to go outside and enjoy the sun. When it's winter (wonderland or not), I'm totally fine with staying in my practice room...it's warm in there, afterall...
Monday, November 14, 2005
i smell like chlorine
is it weird that i kind of like that?
i did a kick-ass swim workout with ta this morning. my shoulders are KILLING me. something psycho possessed me to lift ARM weights beforehand, so i'm definitely feeling a horrible burning sensation in my shoulders right now. i wish i could say i felt tough or hard-core, but really...it's just painful. if it's this bad immediately afterwards, i'm a bit petrified about tomorrow.
and, i signed up for a half-marathon for sunday, which could have been idiotic since i haven't ran more than 6.5m since the Chicago debacle, but...i can still run 13.1m, right? it might not be pleasant, and i might not pr...but i'll survive it. i kind of want that ass-kicking right now, for some reason.
anyway...point is that i really should run today too. argh. i'm tired just thinking about it. or, maybe i'm just tired.
[how come the race always seems so much more appealing than the training?!]
i did a kick-ass swim workout with ta this morning. my shoulders are KILLING me. something psycho possessed me to lift ARM weights beforehand, so i'm definitely feeling a horrible burning sensation in my shoulders right now. i wish i could say i felt tough or hard-core, but really...it's just painful. if it's this bad immediately afterwards, i'm a bit petrified about tomorrow.
and, i signed up for a half-marathon for sunday, which could have been idiotic since i haven't ran more than 6.5m since the Chicago debacle, but...i can still run 13.1m, right? it might not be pleasant, and i might not pr...but i'll survive it. i kind of want that ass-kicking right now, for some reason.
anyway...point is that i really should run today too. argh. i'm tired just thinking about it. or, maybe i'm just tired.
[how come the race always seems so much more appealing than the training?!]
i did it
I put money down on a Trek Equinox 7, WSD. I should be getting it on Wednesday. I couldn't decide between that and the Cervelo model...but the Cervelo is a bit more expensive ($500 more, actually), and I know I don't need the upgrade. I probably wouldn't be able to tell the difference, even...and the Trek is what I originally wanted. It's not Trek's fault the Cervelo logo is cooler, right? :) I can still change my mind once the Trek is in...the bike shop doesn't care as long as I buy SOMETHING...
But I won't change my mind. I'm happy with my decision, and I can't wait for it to get here. Please PLEASE let this freakishly awesome weather continue through the week, so I can get at least one ride in before winter hits...
But I won't change my mind. I'm happy with my decision, and I can't wait for it to get here. Please PLEASE let this freakishly awesome weather continue through the week, so I can get at least one ride in before winter hits...
Saturday, November 12, 2005
More pictures of a beautiful day
Here are some more pictures from last night, and some from today. It was the most gorgeous day outside...it's hard to believe it's November 12. Phil and I took Baruch to Forest Hills Park, where she happily ran around without a leash. I've got to get this dog running--she'd be an awesome companion if she could just get in shape...and stop running after squirrels, perhaps.
I also helped Liz move in today. Her new house is so nice; I'm really happy for her. How great, to get your own place and not feel like you're throwing money away every month!
I also helped Liz move in today. Her new house is so nice; I'm really happy for her. How great, to get your own place and not feel like you're throwing money away every month!
Gaming Night
Last night the TNT mentors and coaches played games at Coach Kurt's house...supposed to be 'group bonding'...it was a lot of fun.
I have pictures of other people; these are just the first ones Kurt emailed me. They'll be up soon! (If for no other reason, then to attempt to convince you that I'm not 100% vain, and I am capable of posting pictures of people other than myself...)
I have pictures of other people; these are just the first ones Kurt emailed me. They'll be up soon! (If for no other reason, then to attempt to convince you that I'm not 100% vain, and I am capable of posting pictures of people other than myself...)
Friday, November 11, 2005
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Trek Equinox 7, WSD...?
For the first time since my bike was stolen, I'm seriously looking into getting a new one. An awesome neighbor lent me her spare road bike, so I'm not bikeless. But, it doesn't fit me very well, and I can't help but just feel like I need/want one of my own.
Here's the one I'm considering...the Trek Equinox 7, WSD. I don't particularly have the money out of my monthly budget (okay, I don't AT ALL have the money out of my monthly budget), but I have it in savings, and I feel like I'm almost ready to take the plunge...again.
I loved my old bike--I still look for it around town, even though I'm sure it's completely hopeless by now. Oh well...it's just a material object, and those come and go, right? If nothing else, I've learned to not leave things in my garage.
In any case, if (and when) I have to buy a new bike, I want to make sure it's the right one. Any suggestions for a small-to-medium sized girl?
Here's the one I'm considering...the Trek Equinox 7, WSD. I don't particularly have the money out of my monthly budget (okay, I don't AT ALL have the money out of my monthly budget), but I have it in savings, and I feel like I'm almost ready to take the plunge...again.
I loved my old bike--I still look for it around town, even though I'm sure it's completely hopeless by now. Oh well...it's just a material object, and those come and go, right? If nothing else, I've learned to not leave things in my garage.
In any case, if (and when) I have to buy a new bike, I want to make sure it's the right one. Any suggestions for a small-to-medium sized girl?
it's cold outside
i think fall is ending.
it's been an awesome season, but too short as always. winter is here. it was COLD this morning (i swam anyway!), and then on the way back ice was definitely hitting my windshield. nothing sticking yet, no flurries even...so nothing counting as snow yet...but it's coming. i can feel it.
i'm going to ny for thanksgiving. any of you ny runners have the scoop for the turkey trot there? am i too late?
i need to go practice. i think this counts as procrastinating. i've fallen off of my practice plan, and i'm kind of annoyed with myself. so much so that it's hard to get started again. but...back on that proverbial horse, right? there's no other way...
yale is now free for music students, due to an (annonymous!) 100 million dollar donation. thinking about applying for a doctorate, but hesitating because i don't think i really want a doctorate. i just want to be in the midst of a musical environment again...how to do that without going back to school? i like my freedom, i like being able to make my own schedule on a daily basis...i just have to figure out the quirks, and i'm not sure how... yet.
and then again, maybe i DO want a doctorate. how simple, to just be able to comfortably apply for college teaching jobs, and never have to suffer through the audition process again. there is absolutely nothing wrong with a teacher's life...why am being so stubborn?
but...i just don't know if that's what i want. i simply want to play the flute in an orchestra. why is that so absurdly hard?
it's been an awesome season, but too short as always. winter is here. it was COLD this morning (i swam anyway!), and then on the way back ice was definitely hitting my windshield. nothing sticking yet, no flurries even...so nothing counting as snow yet...but it's coming. i can feel it.
i'm going to ny for thanksgiving. any of you ny runners have the scoop for the turkey trot there? am i too late?
i need to go practice. i think this counts as procrastinating. i've fallen off of my practice plan, and i'm kind of annoyed with myself. so much so that it's hard to get started again. but...back on that proverbial horse, right? there's no other way...
yale is now free for music students, due to an (annonymous!) 100 million dollar donation. thinking about applying for a doctorate, but hesitating because i don't think i really want a doctorate. i just want to be in the midst of a musical environment again...how to do that without going back to school? i like my freedom, i like being able to make my own schedule on a daily basis...i just have to figure out the quirks, and i'm not sure how... yet.
and then again, maybe i DO want a doctorate. how simple, to just be able to comfortably apply for college teaching jobs, and never have to suffer through the audition process again. there is absolutely nothing wrong with a teacher's life...why am being so stubborn?
but...i just don't know if that's what i want. i simply want to play the flute in an orchestra. why is that so absurdly hard?
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
I did it!
Right now, I'm putting down my pen. I finished the last of my Team in Training thank you notes from last season. Yes, it's ridiculously late. But, I think (I hope!) people will still appreciate getting an acknowledgement. argh. I've GOT to be better about this stuff.
New Year's Resolution (Jewish New Year, so that I have to start...yesterday)--
Write Thank You Cards as soon as you recieve a donation/gift/ANYTHING. Be a functional member of society and don't expect people to just 'understand' that you're a total bum and slacker. argh (again).
Good thing I've only gotten one donation so far this time, so I don't have to worry about starting again quite yet. Liz, I'll write you soon. Right now, my fingers are cramping from writing too much. sniffle...poor me... :)
New Year's Resolution (Jewish New Year, so that I have to start...yesterday)--
Write Thank You Cards as soon as you recieve a donation/gift/ANYTHING. Be a functional member of society and don't expect people to just 'understand' that you're a total bum and slacker. argh (again).
Good thing I've only gotten one donation so far this time, so I don't have to worry about starting again quite yet. Liz, I'll write you soon. Right now, my fingers are cramping from writing too much. sniffle...poor me... :)
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
sorry for the lack of info lately
I don't know what's been up, but I just haven't felt it recently. I've still been updating my 'logging' blogs, but somehow just didn't have much to write here.
Today was really one of those days that just works, so I thought it was worth mentioning.
In the afternoon, I played in a masterclass with Lorenzo. It was great to perform. I always forget how much I really enjoy playing, and especially playing for others. The guy giving the critique at the masterclass wasn't that amazing, but I didn't care...it was just great to be on a stage again. I hope I have some more chances to play sometime soon.
Tonight, we went to Garfield Reservation to run, and I had an awesome time. I felt fast and strong, which is kind of new. Breaking 9 minute miles wasn't even a question...Kurt said I had to move my 'winning' time to 8 minute miles in order to get a prize, but I think I'll just step down to 8:30...it should be a time right at your threshold, right? If it's too unattainable, it would be depressing. It has to be a time that you feel good breaking, but isn't TOO hard. :)
Bloody toes today...which just means that I have to cut my toenails, but still made me feel hard core just the same (and then slightly ridiculous, I'll admit).
Afterwards, we went to Hoggy's (of course!), and I enjoyed my usual Macaroni and Cheese. I look forward to this all week...I wouldn't be able to get through the run otherwise! Phil surprised me by coming out to meet us at Hoggy's, which was really nice.
Kurt and Bryce are talking about doing the Ironman in Nice...I'm jealous; wish I could be strong enough by June 25, but I know it just really isn't feasible. Only 2 months after Wildflower, and I can't even finish a marathon, eh? arghhhh!
Fundraising is starting to get moving. Ta and I decorated boxes of candy and are dropping them off at local businesses. While I was standing there talking to Brenda at CIM, at least 6 bars were sold! yeah! Let's hope the other places we put them are just as lucrative (and the bars don't get stolen!).
Only downside of today is that Baruch has something wrong with her foot again. She's been hobbling around on 3 legs. She's probably being a bit overly-dramatic, but she's definitely hurting just the same. The vet just gave us some antibiotic in hopes that'll work. If not, we're in for a pricey diagnosis. I don't know what I would do if there was something seriously wrong with her; think good thoughts!
Today was really one of those days that just works, so I thought it was worth mentioning.
In the afternoon, I played in a masterclass with Lorenzo. It was great to perform. I always forget how much I really enjoy playing, and especially playing for others. The guy giving the critique at the masterclass wasn't that amazing, but I didn't care...it was just great to be on a stage again. I hope I have some more chances to play sometime soon.
Tonight, we went to Garfield Reservation to run, and I had an awesome time. I felt fast and strong, which is kind of new. Breaking 9 minute miles wasn't even a question...Kurt said I had to move my 'winning' time to 8 minute miles in order to get a prize, but I think I'll just step down to 8:30...it should be a time right at your threshold, right? If it's too unattainable, it would be depressing. It has to be a time that you feel good breaking, but isn't TOO hard. :)
Bloody toes today...which just means that I have to cut my toenails, but still made me feel hard core just the same (and then slightly ridiculous, I'll admit).
Afterwards, we went to Hoggy's (of course!), and I enjoyed my usual Macaroni and Cheese. I look forward to this all week...I wouldn't be able to get through the run otherwise! Phil surprised me by coming out to meet us at Hoggy's, which was really nice.
Kurt and Bryce are talking about doing the Ironman in Nice...I'm jealous; wish I could be strong enough by June 25, but I know it just really isn't feasible. Only 2 months after Wildflower, and I can't even finish a marathon, eh? arghhhh!
Fundraising is starting to get moving. Ta and I decorated boxes of candy and are dropping them off at local businesses. While I was standing there talking to Brenda at CIM, at least 6 bars were sold! yeah! Let's hope the other places we put them are just as lucrative (and the bars don't get stolen!).
Only downside of today is that Baruch has something wrong with her foot again. She's been hobbling around on 3 legs. She's probably being a bit overly-dramatic, but she's definitely hurting just the same. The vet just gave us some antibiotic in hopes that'll work. If not, we're in for a pricey diagnosis. I don't know what I would do if there was something seriously wrong with her; think good thoughts!
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Saturday, November 05, 2005
found it!
i found my camera! i FINALLY cleaned up all the clothes in my room and my camera wasn't there...i had given up and resigned myself to either a)a year without a camera or b)having to go into my savings on another one (identical to the one i had because i liked it so much). neither option seemed very appealing.
and then, as i was finishing up, i decided to clean baruch's bed...and underneath it lay my camera. yeah! so baruch got a clean bed and a very happy mommy...
now my house is 100% clean and it's time for me to go for a run.
oh, but in fundraising news, arabica has agreed to sell cookies again this year...this time for both me and ta! 50 cents of every cookie sold will go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. We made up a fancy sign--i think it'll bring in a lot of money for the LLS. we're working on getting Tommy's to make a special "TaSu" sandwich as well with the same concept...it's going to be fun having a fundraising partner this time around! i only 'have' to raise about $2700, i believe, but i'd like to attempt the whole $4400, if possible. we'll see how it goes...it's a lot of work, and i'd like to avoid straight out asking everybody i know for money... as much as possible, anyway.
okay, the sun is calling me. i'm out!
and then, as i was finishing up, i decided to clean baruch's bed...and underneath it lay my camera. yeah! so baruch got a clean bed and a very happy mommy...
now my house is 100% clean and it's time for me to go for a run.
oh, but in fundraising news, arabica has agreed to sell cookies again this year...this time for both me and ta! 50 cents of every cookie sold will go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. We made up a fancy sign--i think it'll bring in a lot of money for the LLS. we're working on getting Tommy's to make a special "TaSu" sandwich as well with the same concept...it's going to be fun having a fundraising partner this time around! i only 'have' to raise about $2700, i believe, but i'd like to attempt the whole $4400, if possible. we'll see how it goes...it's a lot of work, and i'd like to avoid straight out asking everybody i know for money... as much as possible, anyway.
okay, the sun is calling me. i'm out!
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
in actuality, i don't like to fold clothes
This is proved by the mass amounts of clothes currently residing on my floor. They like to be there...why should I bother them? Baruch likes them there too...she sleeps on them when she gets tired of me. That last fact makes me a bit nervous, actually. These clothes were clean when thrown on the floor, but my aging poodle tends to have accidents when sleeping...just sometimes, but sometimes is enough to make your entire wardrobe smell pretty awful.
I can't find a lot of my stuff. My camera, my bracelets, even a sports bra. All lost. I don't define myself by my possessions [the definition would come up stupidly short], but losing things I generally use on a regular basis is just making me feel a bit lost as a whole.
I need to start this finding process by cleaning up my room; I know that. It's just that every ounce of my body is screaming "NOOOOO". I'll practice, exercise, even mop the floors before I give into putting away that mess.
David Cerone, President gave our Freshman class a speech. [paraphrased, of course] "Plan your day. If you don't want to do something you planned, don't find something else to do. Make yourself sit and do nothing. See how long you're able to waste your time...before you know it, you'll be making yourself do what you had planned, instead of procratinating."
An interesting theory, but never exercised on my part. I think that's a bit extreme, even psychotic. Things come up...more important things than what you may have planned. And really...isn't what you feel like doing kind of important as well? If you're constantly forcing yourself to do things you don't want to do, you're not going to be very happy. My loophole would be to stop even planning on doing things I didn't want to be doing...
I can't find a lot of my stuff. My camera, my bracelets, even a sports bra. All lost. I don't define myself by my possessions [the definition would come up stupidly short], but losing things I generally use on a regular basis is just making me feel a bit lost as a whole.
I need to start this finding process by cleaning up my room; I know that. It's just that every ounce of my body is screaming "NOOOOO". I'll practice, exercise, even mop the floors before I give into putting away that mess.
David Cerone, President gave our Freshman class a speech. [paraphrased, of course] "Plan your day. If you don't want to do something you planned, don't find something else to do. Make yourself sit and do nothing. See how long you're able to waste your time...before you know it, you'll be making yourself do what you had planned, instead of procratinating."
An interesting theory, but never exercised on my part. I think that's a bit extreme, even psychotic. Things come up...more important things than what you may have planned. And really...isn't what you feel like doing kind of important as well? If you're constantly forcing yourself to do things you don't want to do, you're not going to be very happy. My loophole would be to stop even planning on doing things I didn't want to be doing...
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
i've been fired.
okay, not really.
i knew i had finished the work they wanted me to do, and was frankly wondering what i was going to do from now on.
but, it's still weird to get a call saying 'we don't need you anymore'.
somehow, it made me feel rejected.
i'm on it though--i made plans, both musically and athletically. i'm going to get some more students. next on my to-do list is to make a flyer and bring it to schools. i want to volunteer at the cleveland school of the arts, if they'll have me.
this is all probably a good thing. i have my day back; it's what i've been wanting. and, it'll give me time to have to think about what i'm doing. i can't just float along, saying/thinking 'i don't have time to do anything else'. i now have to plan my day, get things done. i have to think about why i'm doing what i'm doing.
i'm excited.
here is another idea. i want to find some kind of class on website design and learn all about doing that. i love computers, always have. i think i would be really great at designing websites, and i venture to say that i would even enjoy it. it would be a great 'part time job' that would be on my terms...in my time, at home, etc. i'm excited about this prospect. any advice about how to achieve and conquer this one?
also on the positive list is that i'm going to be saving SO much in gas, not to mention saving my car mile-wise.
this really is good, and i don't think i'm just convincing myself of that. it's a life-style change, for sure...but i'm ready.
i knew i had finished the work they wanted me to do, and was frankly wondering what i was going to do from now on.
but, it's still weird to get a call saying 'we don't need you anymore'.
somehow, it made me feel rejected.
i'm on it though--i made plans, both musically and athletically. i'm going to get some more students. next on my to-do list is to make a flyer and bring it to schools. i want to volunteer at the cleveland school of the arts, if they'll have me.
this is all probably a good thing. i have my day back; it's what i've been wanting. and, it'll give me time to have to think about what i'm doing. i can't just float along, saying/thinking 'i don't have time to do anything else'. i now have to plan my day, get things done. i have to think about why i'm doing what i'm doing.
i'm excited.
here is another idea. i want to find some kind of class on website design and learn all about doing that. i love computers, always have. i think i would be really great at designing websites, and i venture to say that i would even enjoy it. it would be a great 'part time job' that would be on my terms...in my time, at home, etc. i'm excited about this prospect. any advice about how to achieve and conquer this one?
also on the positive list is that i'm going to be saving SO much in gas, not to mention saving my car mile-wise.
this really is good, and i don't think i'm just convincing myself of that. it's a life-style change, for sure...but i'm ready.
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