I am a worrier. Anyone who knows me probably knows this. I have deep concern for those whom I care about, though I usually have little concern for myself. So that means I go about feeding my need for worry. My current favorite source of worry is a conspiracy theory message board. I LOVES ME THE CONSPIRACIES!! Seriously, if you look into a lot of them, they make some valid points. The date December 12, 2012 keeps cropping up, and a lot of people wonder if this will be a great turning point in humanity. Seeing the sheeple around me, things better ramp up a notch if that's ever going to happen. Earth changes, famine, Planet X, and merely Bush's last few months in office are enough to scare the bejeezuz out of anyone. Perhaps its some sort of complex, but I've always been convinced I'm destined for something important. Part of me hopes the crap hits the fan so I can finally take on my leadership role and save the planet. That is, if I can survive the tribulations leading up to that. It sounds like the powers that be are getting prepared for something...why should they be the ones to survive this mess?? If anything, the good people of society should be the ones rebuilding, not the callous kooks who care little about the rest of us. So yeah, I've been obsessing over this website for a while, and it is fascinating...but I feel all I think about is doom anymore. I often wonder if anything I'm doing really has much point.
So if you're reading this, take it as a warning...something BIG is coming. I don't know what, but be prepared. You may think I'm crazy to think about these things, but I think YOU'RE crazy if you're not opening your eyes and seeing what's really going on that the powers that be DON'T want you to see, or assume you're too blind to notice (which is the case for many).
One good side effect of all my doom worry is this: I'm having Lasik tomorrow for the THIRD (and final) time. Usually I'd be freaking out about it by now, and while it's in the back of my mind, it's not bothering me nearly as much as the rest of the stuff going on. Hopefully I can focus on some of this other stuff for the, what, 45 seconds of the procedure, and not think about what's happening. My fingers are crossed.
Since my flight home, I've also been reading "The Legacy of Luna," about the woman who lived in a redwood for 2 years. It's making me yearn to make a difference again and do to something important with my life. Real estate is NOT important. Not in the long run. I need to find something I truly stand for and make a difference. Maybe a political activist group for truth? Or, of course, some sort of environmental movement, but it's hard to pick just one. It's something to ponder...
In other news, Phoenix has experienced another bout of those mysterious "lights." I was watching an interview in which the reporter asked the video taper if he thought it was a "UFO." The guy hemmed and hawed, and I just wanted to be like, "You morons!! Of COURSE it was a UFO. Think about it. It is an object. It is flying. And YOU can't identify it...so what does that mean?? It's a UFO!! If it were an alien spacecraft and you could identify it as such, it would no longer be a UFO, by mere definition of the word." Semantics, people!! If you want to know if they thought it was aliens, ask them that, sheesh!! UFOs exist. I don't know what they are, but they're unidentified, flying, and objects. You cannot deny it.
And now they're so quick to downplay the existence of these lights when some "dude" brags he was lighting lanterns in the air. Umm, ok, so why were they higher and brighter than high-flying aircraft, and how could the entire city see them?? No, the great mass media is content with any excuse of an answer they can find. Puh-lease. There is a lot of weird crap out there, and people with no evidence downplay it because it threatens the accepted image of "reality." WAKE UP, SHEEPLE!!
Ahem, so yeah, I'm stressed, pissed, and needing change. This world is going to pot, and fast...if these are aliens, I sometimes wish they'd just take me with 'em (as long as my loved ones could come along, too, of course). AURGH!!!!!!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Out of the Comfort Zone
So today was my first mall shift duty for CB Legacy. Yes, we sell houses at the mall! For real! I manned my kiosk as professionally as I could, making eye contact with passers-by. Never having worked in retail or at the mall before, I didn't know what to expect, and I rather dreaded it. All was well and good until one person actually came up to me with questions about mortgages and the market. I answered the market questions, but I did so quite fumblingly and obviously nervous - I probably didn't sound like I had a clue, though I'm sure I knew what I was talking about. I didn't know the answer to the mortgage question, though I probably should have, but I directed him to Legacy Mortgage for answers. I am certain I turned dark red or light purple and I could feel a bead of sweat forming on my brow, which I hope he didn't see. This is way out of my comfort zone, and I don't know how it's going to work. In fact, sales is out of my comfort zone, and I just hope I can eke out a living at it this year.
On my way home, everything came to a head...emotions ran like the rain hitting my windshield. I've had a lot of negative feelings lately which seem to override the good ones you get from those affirmations. It was awful, and I wound up going home and just breaking down. It lasted for a good half hour, but after I got it all out of my system, I feel a lot better. I can't really pinpoint one thing that set me off, but it was a number of things including lack of success at what I'm doing, anger at past "friends" who obviously aren't worth a damn yet they drive me crazy anyway, anger at my whole "past," frustration with upcoming events in the next four or so years, and who really knows what else. I thought that moving out of state would release me from a lot of this, but I find that things linger. Hopefully I can work it out...
On my way home, everything came to a head...emotions ran like the rain hitting my windshield. I've had a lot of negative feelings lately which seem to override the good ones you get from those affirmations. It was awful, and I wound up going home and just breaking down. It lasted for a good half hour, but after I got it all out of my system, I feel a lot better. I can't really pinpoint one thing that set me off, but it was a number of things including lack of success at what I'm doing, anger at past "friends" who obviously aren't worth a damn yet they drive me crazy anyway, anger at my whole "past," frustration with upcoming events in the next four or so years, and who really knows what else. I thought that moving out of state would release me from a lot of this, but I find that things linger. Hopefully I can work it out...
Friday, April 4, 2008
I am SO Incredible!
I have just had one of the best days in a long time. Today, we had our dreaded "affirmations" class at the training center. I had heard from a girl whose mother had taken the program that this was the class during which Peter, our boisterous CEO, makes people cry. Many people in our class wanted to skip it, but none of us knew just when it was coming. Part of me was leery, but part of me said "Bring it on!"
Class started with Peter going on about how we need to convince ourselves about our good qualities before we could be successful, and in doing so, we need to address what we consider our shortcomings. Halfway through the class, he wanted us to, on a completely volunteer level, tell the class what was holding us back and why. What came out were stories ranging from "I'm young and nobody takes me seriously" to full out abuse. Two women in our class were brought to tears, and I think a lot of us who heard their stories were close to crying for them, too. Peter, who is often intimidating, though someone I think I would enjoy as a sarcastic, challenging friend, changed his role so amazingly - he was practically a therapist, and so understanding and kind. It wasn't at all what I had expected from "the class that makes you cry." I could see just how important it was to get it all out that I vowed I would go (despite the fact that, earlier in class, when he asked me an obscure question, I slunk down and pretended to be shier than I really am so I wouldn't have to answer it).
So here's my history with Peter - from day one, he thought I was this shy little thing, and it's been my goal to prove him wrong. I think he's rather fascinated by my outgoing spurts, and it's a fact that when I have something to say, he stops everything so I can do so. It's really quite cool! I've given the class a schpiel on my Masters research, I've presented a purchase agreement flawlessly, and now I opened up in front of the class.
In all honesty, it wasn't very hard. I've formed strong relationships with most everyone in the room, and I feel incredibly comfortable with them. So after all their stories, I felt, though mine wasn't quite as heart wrenching as some, I shouldn't have a problem opening up.
I was the last person to go that day, and Peter seemed really eager to hear what I had to say. I spoke quickly because we only had a few minutes to go, and I was as outgoing as he'd ever seen me. I told the class about my weird childhood, having no friends, although a supportive family, and how, because of that, I had a slew of issues including the need to be liked by everyone (I liken myself to a golden retriever running around to be pet...haha), fear of silences, and especially fear of sounding stupid or saying something offensive because I don't like silences and blurt out whatever comes to mind. He had me write down five qualities (six with another one that my classmate Patsy added) that were positive, and pointed out how none of those would be a reason to not be likable, and the WHOLE class chimed in with how likable I am (and Patsy even said my personality is something she would look for in a best friend!), and I was left with such an overwhelming feeling of support and acceptance that just made me float out of there. It was like hypnosis all over again. I could use these affirmations every day - I would be unbeatable. And they're absolutely right...I have an awesome personality (once I let the real me out) with many attributes including my six: Intelligence, compassion, empathy, loyalty, and competence (which I sometimes question, but I'm sure is true). I felt so good after I left, and I know I can just take on the world!
So speaking of taking on the world, I have a $2.5 million dollar house I'm going to go preview now! Have a great weekend!!
Class started with Peter going on about how we need to convince ourselves about our good qualities before we could be successful, and in doing so, we need to address what we consider our shortcomings. Halfway through the class, he wanted us to, on a completely volunteer level, tell the class what was holding us back and why. What came out were stories ranging from "I'm young and nobody takes me seriously" to full out abuse. Two women in our class were brought to tears, and I think a lot of us who heard their stories were close to crying for them, too. Peter, who is often intimidating, though someone I think I would enjoy as a sarcastic, challenging friend, changed his role so amazingly - he was practically a therapist, and so understanding and kind. It wasn't at all what I had expected from "the class that makes you cry." I could see just how important it was to get it all out that I vowed I would go (despite the fact that, earlier in class, when he asked me an obscure question, I slunk down and pretended to be shier than I really am so I wouldn't have to answer it).
So here's my history with Peter - from day one, he thought I was this shy little thing, and it's been my goal to prove him wrong. I think he's rather fascinated by my outgoing spurts, and it's a fact that when I have something to say, he stops everything so I can do so. It's really quite cool! I've given the class a schpiel on my Masters research, I've presented a purchase agreement flawlessly, and now I opened up in front of the class.
In all honesty, it wasn't very hard. I've formed strong relationships with most everyone in the room, and I feel incredibly comfortable with them. So after all their stories, I felt, though mine wasn't quite as heart wrenching as some, I shouldn't have a problem opening up.
I was the last person to go that day, and Peter seemed really eager to hear what I had to say. I spoke quickly because we only had a few minutes to go, and I was as outgoing as he'd ever seen me. I told the class about my weird childhood, having no friends, although a supportive family, and how, because of that, I had a slew of issues including the need to be liked by everyone (I liken myself to a golden retriever running around to be pet...haha), fear of silences, and especially fear of sounding stupid or saying something offensive because I don't like silences and blurt out whatever comes to mind. He had me write down five qualities (six with another one that my classmate Patsy added) that were positive, and pointed out how none of those would be a reason to not be likable, and the WHOLE class chimed in with how likable I am (and Patsy even said my personality is something she would look for in a best friend!), and I was left with such an overwhelming feeling of support and acceptance that just made me float out of there. It was like hypnosis all over again. I could use these affirmations every day - I would be unbeatable. And they're absolutely right...I have an awesome personality (once I let the real me out) with many attributes including my six: Intelligence, compassion, empathy, loyalty, and competence (which I sometimes question, but I'm sure is true). I felt so good after I left, and I know I can just take on the world!
So speaking of taking on the world, I have a $2.5 million dollar house I'm going to go preview now! Have a great weekend!!
Monday, March 31, 2008
Trips, Traps, and Tribulations
Jeez, I don't even know where to start anymore. I don't have time to email these days, but I'm at least trying to update this some. I have been working insane hours at real estate and still have nothing to show for it. Well, except for the $52 I earned!! A few weeks ago, in class, we were asked to recount a positive experience we had that week, and I had just come from measuring a house (which makes me the equivalent of a rock star, to my class, so it seems...hehe), so I told our CEO about that. I got to pick a prize, and wound up with a $2 bill!! Go me!!
Then, last week, a bunch of us from class went to Algodones to preview the new homes there. It was quite the adventure! I rode up with Jerry, which was a blast because he is as much a conspiracy theorist as I am. Talk about great conversation. It was so interesting to hear his views on things, too, as he's waaaay right, while I am pretty left, but it's amazing how many things we agree on. Fascinating stuff.
So while we were out tooling around Algodones, we happened across some horses that were out of their paddocks. We were both pretty angry because we figured some irresponsible owner was just letting them run free. Weren't we surprised to discover they were the wild horses that Paul studies! Unfortunately, these new houses are encroaching on their territory, and making them more accustomed to people, which is especially worrisome seeing as they're a stone's throw from the expressway. Who knows what'll happen with them.
Also, I had the scare of a lifetime. Part of this house tour involved getting free lunch at each of the houses. Well, one house had sandwiches, which, hungry HITTER than I am, I snapped up. While eating it, it occurred to my horror, that it was extremely likely this thing in my mouth was from Subway. Now, if you don't know by now how disgusting I think Subway is, where have you been? But I REFUSE to eat there, and always have. I've tried it a few times and find it rancid, and not at all appealing, and the smell that hits you as you walk in the door is SO objectionable. I really don't get why they're so popular, as the mere odor makes me ill. So as we left that house, I asked Jerry, terror in my voice, "Was that Subway??" He wasn't sure, but luckily we found out later, it was Quiznos. I figured it probably was something other than subway because the bread wasn't rock hard and I wasn't going bulemic just yet. Boooo, Subway!
The best part about the tour of (overpriced, not that well constructed) homes was, everyone who visited them all gets $50!! So there ya go - I've made $52 at real estate in my first three months. Go me!! :P
In other news, Nate and I went on a mini vacation the weekend before last. I needed to get away, and my theory was that, over Easter, less people would be house hunting (which turned out to be VERY wrong, but oh well - I needed a break). On Friday, we headed down to El Paso, stopping at an AWESOME DQ in Truth or Consequences along the way. Once at El Paso, we made our way to Western Playland, a relatively new location for an old amusement park. We had a great time, getting two new coaster credits (my 349th and 350th!) and getting ill on spin and pukes. Yay! We had dinner at a local fast food place where they really don't care if they get your order right. Grrr. Oh well. And we stayed at a Motel 6 just a mile from the Mexico border! I wish we'd had our passports - it was tempting to go!
On Saturday, we stopped at Franklin Mtns. State Park and did a rather treacherous hike to overlook Mexico. We also saw the border patrol museum, and did lunch at an El Taco Tote. From there we investigated what looked like another amusement park but just ended up being a carnival. D'oh. Then we drove out to Guadalupe Mtns. National Park and did a 4 mile hike there. It was gorgeous!! After that, we tried to make it to Carlsbad Caverns to see the bats, but the park wasn't letting anyone else in when we got there, so we just got a room in Carlsbad, searched high and low for food, wound up eating at a mediocre pizza buffet, and called it a night.
Sunday was crazy!! We started out visiting the Living Desert Museum in Carlsbad, which was fantastic and rivaled the one in Tucson. I could see working there, for sure! Then we drove way out to Sitting Bull Falls State Park and did a hike there. It was desert, but it was so incredibly lush! It was the strangest place to be. Then we headed to Las Cruces where we walked around the campus a bit before heading home. On the way back, Nate got hungry, and since I was ok, I agreed to let him go to Subway. Ewwww. Well, I figured I should eat SOMETHING, so since they now have pizza, I tried one. It was like eating cardboard. I really don't get how that place stays in business. Nothing they have is good, and it smells so rancid. I don't think I'll ever understand it.
So that brings us to now. I spent half the day previewing with my classmates - we even saw a house that is currently being rented by some people working on the newest Terminator movie. *SO JEALOUS* It was especially fun since Jerry, Patsy, and I drove together and discussed our conspiracies in great depth. I'm so glad I'm not alone in my thoughts! Whooda thunk it'd be Realtors who have the same ideas as me??
So I better get back to work. Off to the grind I go!!
Then, last week, a bunch of us from class went to Algodones to preview the new homes there. It was quite the adventure! I rode up with Jerry, which was a blast because he is as much a conspiracy theorist as I am. Talk about great conversation. It was so interesting to hear his views on things, too, as he's waaaay right, while I am pretty left, but it's amazing how many things we agree on. Fascinating stuff.
So while we were out tooling around Algodones, we happened across some horses that were out of their paddocks. We were both pretty angry because we figured some irresponsible owner was just letting them run free. Weren't we surprised to discover they were the wild horses that Paul studies! Unfortunately, these new houses are encroaching on their territory, and making them more accustomed to people, which is especially worrisome seeing as they're a stone's throw from the expressway. Who knows what'll happen with them.
Also, I had the scare of a lifetime. Part of this house tour involved getting free lunch at each of the houses. Well, one house had sandwiches, which, hungry HITTER than I am, I snapped up. While eating it, it occurred to my horror, that it was extremely likely this thing in my mouth was from Subway. Now, if you don't know by now how disgusting I think Subway is, where have you been? But I REFUSE to eat there, and always have. I've tried it a few times and find it rancid, and not at all appealing, and the smell that hits you as you walk in the door is SO objectionable. I really don't get why they're so popular, as the mere odor makes me ill. So as we left that house, I asked Jerry, terror in my voice, "Was that Subway??" He wasn't sure, but luckily we found out later, it was Quiznos. I figured it probably was something other than subway because the bread wasn't rock hard and I wasn't going bulemic just yet. Boooo, Subway!
The best part about the tour of (overpriced, not that well constructed) homes was, everyone who visited them all gets $50!! So there ya go - I've made $52 at real estate in my first three months. Go me!! :P
In other news, Nate and I went on a mini vacation the weekend before last. I needed to get away, and my theory was that, over Easter, less people would be house hunting (which turned out to be VERY wrong, but oh well - I needed a break). On Friday, we headed down to El Paso, stopping at an AWESOME DQ in Truth or Consequences along the way. Once at El Paso, we made our way to Western Playland, a relatively new location for an old amusement park. We had a great time, getting two new coaster credits (my 349th and 350th!) and getting ill on spin and pukes. Yay! We had dinner at a local fast food place where they really don't care if they get your order right. Grrr. Oh well. And we stayed at a Motel 6 just a mile from the Mexico border! I wish we'd had our passports - it was tempting to go!
On Saturday, we stopped at Franklin Mtns. State Park and did a rather treacherous hike to overlook Mexico. We also saw the border patrol museum, and did lunch at an El Taco Tote. From there we investigated what looked like another amusement park but just ended up being a carnival. D'oh. Then we drove out to Guadalupe Mtns. National Park and did a 4 mile hike there. It was gorgeous!! After that, we tried to make it to Carlsbad Caverns to see the bats, but the park wasn't letting anyone else in when we got there, so we just got a room in Carlsbad, searched high and low for food, wound up eating at a mediocre pizza buffet, and called it a night.
Sunday was crazy!! We started out visiting the Living Desert Museum in Carlsbad, which was fantastic and rivaled the one in Tucson. I could see working there, for sure! Then we drove way out to Sitting Bull Falls State Park and did a hike there. It was desert, but it was so incredibly lush! It was the strangest place to be. Then we headed to Las Cruces where we walked around the campus a bit before heading home. On the way back, Nate got hungry, and since I was ok, I agreed to let him go to Subway. Ewwww. Well, I figured I should eat SOMETHING, so since they now have pizza, I tried one. It was like eating cardboard. I really don't get how that place stays in business. Nothing they have is good, and it smells so rancid. I don't think I'll ever understand it.
So that brings us to now. I spent half the day previewing with my classmates - we even saw a house that is currently being rented by some people working on the newest Terminator movie. *SO JEALOUS* It was especially fun since Jerry, Patsy, and I drove together and discussed our conspiracies in great depth. I'm so glad I'm not alone in my thoughts! Whooda thunk it'd be Realtors who have the same ideas as me??
So I better get back to work. Off to the grind I go!!
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
I Love It!
So today, while driving back from the vet, I saw a bumper sticker that absolutely tickled me, mostly because I'd been saying it all along! It was something so obscure, I was convinced no one else felt this way, but to see it in person just made my day...it was a political plug...
"Picard/Riker 2008"
Lol!! Now, while I probably wouldn't be too keen on having Riker as VP, I've ALWAYS said that if Jean Luc Picard were president, I would feel at ease with the world! And with Data or Jordie as VP, I would be confident all would be right! If only!! It's too bad we can't elect fictional characters for president (although sometimes I think we may have...)
ANYHOO, as I said, we just got back from the vet. We took Jolene in for some issues she's been having, but she's essentially pretty healthy, thankfully. We also took our new cat, Koopa, in for her first check up. We got her last Friday, after her arduous spay (she was pregnant, and none of us knew), and we've left her in the master bedroom to recover away from the other kitties. Well, she developed quite an upper respiratory infection, to the point where she almost couldn't breathe, so we had her checked out. She had an extremely high fever, so she's staying there for the night, on fluids and meds. Poor thing! She is such a doll, and we can't wait to have her all fixed up and back at home.
So that's been life around here lately. This weekend, we did a quick stint up to Santa Fe and Los Alamos, and also played more disc golf at a much greener, more appealing course (which didn't have a huge, rugged ravine in the middle) and saw Bodies Human, the cadaver display at the mall. Good times!
Well, it's off to more prospecting for me!!
"Picard/Riker 2008"
Lol!! Now, while I probably wouldn't be too keen on having Riker as VP, I've ALWAYS said that if Jean Luc Picard were president, I would feel at ease with the world! And with Data or Jordie as VP, I would be confident all would be right! If only!! It's too bad we can't elect fictional characters for president (although sometimes I think we may have...)
ANYHOO, as I said, we just got back from the vet. We took Jolene in for some issues she's been having, but she's essentially pretty healthy, thankfully. We also took our new cat, Koopa, in for her first check up. We got her last Friday, after her arduous spay (she was pregnant, and none of us knew), and we've left her in the master bedroom to recover away from the other kitties. Well, she developed quite an upper respiratory infection, to the point where she almost couldn't breathe, so we had her checked out. She had an extremely high fever, so she's staying there for the night, on fluids and meds. Poor thing! She is such a doll, and we can't wait to have her all fixed up and back at home.
So that's been life around here lately. This weekend, we did a quick stint up to Santa Fe and Los Alamos, and also played more disc golf at a much greener, more appealing course (which didn't have a huge, rugged ravine in the middle) and saw Bodies Human, the cadaver display at the mall. Good times!
Well, it's off to more prospecting for me!!
Monday, February 18, 2008
New Horizons
Jeez, it's been a long time since I've written here. My real estate classes have been an absolute whirlwind, and I have been hard-pressed to find much time for myself these days. Between classes each day, and prospecting for clients, including weekend open houses, I have been absolutely wiped at days' end. We even had a week and a half off, but I took it upon myself to put together previewing trips for my class. An average of four of us a day would go out looking at houses all over the area, and it was a great experience. Talk about some freaky places!! And some really great ones, too! The best part was that I got to know my classmates even better, and now I'm the go-to girl for just about everything. For some reason, everyone seems to think I know it all! I wish I felt as confident, but I'm sure that'll come with time. In exciting news, I had a prospective buyer contact me after seeing one of my open houses. I re-showed the house, and he and his family are so enamoured by it - the catch is his sister also works at Coldwell Banker, and unless she moves to Texas (as is the plan) before they can afford a down payment, I'm out of luck. It's stuff like that that's frustrating. It seems like everyone knows an agent already. Albuquerque's housing market is actually one of the strongest in the country, which is heartening, but it doesn't help when you're up against many thousands of other realtors. Luckily, this training program will make us more prepared and experienced than most other agents out in the field. I just hope I can be patient enough to put up with this drought before I finally get some successes.
So what else have I been up to in recent weeks? Well, I finally got out horseback riding again! My buddy Paul, a fellow biologist from UNM, rides horses every now and again, and he invited me along. I got a great lesson on tacking a horse, and then we went out riding along the Rio Grande. It felt so great to be back in the saddle again - it's like that's where I am meant to be. I really hope I get to join him in future adventures. It often seems to conflict with open houses, though. Grrr!!
Beyond that, I was introduced into the evil game World of Warcraft this past week. I haven't played video games in a looooong time, mostly because I know I get too hooked on it. Well, Nate's pal Robert gave him a trial version of the game, and we're both sucked into it now. I've always loved RPGs, and this is the RPG that never ends!! Now that we have a subscription, it's anyone's guess when I'll do something productive again. :P
And yesterday, Nate and I decided to check out one of ABQ's 4 disc golf courses...I was surprised we even had ONE! This one was hidden on an unassuming road south of the airport, amongst ATV courses and barren land. Set on a very brushy high desert course, we attempted to play despite the incredibly gusty wind. We finally gave up around hole 10 when frustration got the better of us. Each throw would be carried off by the wind right down into the 20 foot deep ravine. Climbing down there was no cup of tea, as there weren't many accessible points, and the prickly tumbleweeds didn't help the descent any. I wonder what it's like in summer when there are rattlesnakes!! EEP!!
Well, I know there's been more going on than that, but it's been a while, and I probably should get back to playing WOW, er, prospecting for clients, that is! I'll try not to be a stranger!
So what else have I been up to in recent weeks? Well, I finally got out horseback riding again! My buddy Paul, a fellow biologist from UNM, rides horses every now and again, and he invited me along. I got a great lesson on tacking a horse, and then we went out riding along the Rio Grande. It felt so great to be back in the saddle again - it's like that's where I am meant to be. I really hope I get to join him in future adventures. It often seems to conflict with open houses, though. Grrr!!
Beyond that, I was introduced into the evil game World of Warcraft this past week. I haven't played video games in a looooong time, mostly because I know I get too hooked on it. Well, Nate's pal Robert gave him a trial version of the game, and we're both sucked into it now. I've always loved RPGs, and this is the RPG that never ends!! Now that we have a subscription, it's anyone's guess when I'll do something productive again. :P
And yesterday, Nate and I decided to check out one of ABQ's 4 disc golf courses...I was surprised we even had ONE! This one was hidden on an unassuming road south of the airport, amongst ATV courses and barren land. Set on a very brushy high desert course, we attempted to play despite the incredibly gusty wind. We finally gave up around hole 10 when frustration got the better of us. Each throw would be carried off by the wind right down into the 20 foot deep ravine. Climbing down there was no cup of tea, as there weren't many accessible points, and the prickly tumbleweeds didn't help the descent any. I wonder what it's like in summer when there are rattlesnakes!! EEP!!
Well, I know there's been more going on than that, but it's been a while, and I probably should get back to playing WOW, er, prospecting for clients, that is! I'll try not to be a stranger!
Monday, January 7, 2008
Transitions
It really has been a while since I've written...I've been way too busy to really sit down and work on this. As some of you may know, my last day at UNM was Dec. 21st. I would have liked to have gone home sooner, to save on air fare, but they required me to be there on the last day so I could turn in keys and do all the other bureaucratic necessities that universities are so well known for. Of course, half the places I needed to go to were closed anyway, so I wound up having to go back again today to take care of it all. The last day was nice, though a bit sad. With the aid of Cheryl and Bob, Gabor and I cleaned out our office. We were treated to lunch at Two Fools Tavern by the two of them, and it was a nice time. I still don't know if I'm going to miss UNM...I'll miss the continuing ed, though!
On Saturday, I headed home to Chicago and spent the next two weeks visiting family and friends and having a wonderful time (and eating way too much). I saw nearly everyone I could, so that was nice. I particularly saw a lot of Jeanine, getting our eyebrows threaded, visiting with Jamie and Shantel, and going down to Chambana for a day. Nate also flew in right after Christmas, which was wonderful! We had all sorts of adventures. He joined us on our trip back to U of I, which was a lot of fun, though short. Sadly, we weren't able to meet up with any of the friends we contacted while we were down there, but we made our own fun. We drove all over, from Rantoul to Savoy, seeing what, if anything had changed. It was so weird - I felt so comfortable there, like I'd never left, and yet it was surreal. We visited both malls, hiked the prairie sculpture trail I always enjoyed, went souvenir shopping in campustown, ate at both Za's and Zorba's, as well as the new Flattops Grill...I love the ones in Chicagoland, and this was just as good...leave it to them to open one after I've left! That evening, we did something I'd never done before: we had a bar crawl. This was the ideal time to do so, since there was almost no one around...we had the bars to ourselves! We started out at Legends, where I tried to get their Millennium 99 (is that what it's even called??) which glows...well, I got it, sans the glow stick. Oh well. From there we went to Murphy's where I had a few shots of Dr. McGillicudy's (sp??) peppermint schnapps...sooooo good!! After that we went to Brother's where I tried some concoction on special...it had pineapple in it. From there, we went somewhere just to say we'd been there...Kams!! YETCH!!! I always knew it smelled like vomit when you'd walk by, and I never had a desire to go, although billions of under-aged patrons would render the place a sardine's nightmare. This time, there were only two other patrons, so in we went! The bartender looked surprised to see us (maybe because we're 10 years older than their usual clientelle?), and I had a pre-mixed margarita (Nate had a Jaegermeister - his only deviation from beers all night). It was skeezy and looked like it should have been condemned, but I'm glad to say at least I was able to see the place...too bad C.O.'s was closed.
From there, we visited the Firehouse, a new (to us) bar in campustown and Nate had a 40 of beer, while I had some sort of coffee drink...I don't like coffee, but it was alright. After that, we went to La Bamba's to get a "burrito as big as your head" since that is the culture after doing this bar thing. I don't remember it being so great, but oh well. Lastly, Jeanine (the dd) was kind enough to take us to The Office where we topped off the night with a amaretto stone sour (for old time's sake) and a beer for Nate. It was so interesting to see the bar scene - it wasn't something I'd ever done, but I really can't envision going when it's packed to the gills with crazy college kids. This was the best time for it, and I enjoyed it...probably the only time I'll be doing that, though...bars...ick. :P Unless they're tiki bars, of course!!
Hmm, so what else...well, Nate and I went up to Milwaukee after that to visit the Safe House, a spy-themed bar...it was so cool, especially since the place is accessed in an alley and the entrance says "International Exports, Ltd." or something along those lines...you also need a password to get in, and it's riddled with all sorts of fascinating, gimmicky spy stuff inside. I'd tell you more, but I'd have to kill you. ;) Oh, we also saw the art museum and Pabst Mansion...good times!
For New Years Eve, we were going to try to hit a new tiki bar up in Kenosha, but it was way too snowy, so we opted to stay in and watch Roger Rabbit and have Siberian Frosts. It was a pleasant time, and I'm so glad that Nate was there to spend it with me!!
After Nate left, time just flew. I didn't have nearly enough time to do all I wanted, as usual, but it was still nice. At the end of it all, I got to see several of my high school pals, which was a nice topper to a wonderful trip...but now I need a vacation from my vacation!!
Sadly, it was not to be...today I started a new "job." Well, actually it's a training course for Coldwell Banker Legacy. It feels so awkward to wear something other than jeans to work. The teacher looks like she belongs in a soap opera, and ironically, her daughter is actually ON "As the World Turns." We'll see how these things go...I'm currently at the panic and flee stage...it sounds like they expect a 2 year commitment and that, once successful, there's no turning back...I'm not sure I can do that, though...I'm a green-blooded biologist, and I really do feel like a sell out...but it would be nice to be successful one day (and biology isn't ripe for such prospects, sadly). We'll see how this goes!
As for now, I need some rest! Talk to you soon!
On Saturday, I headed home to Chicago and spent the next two weeks visiting family and friends and having a wonderful time (and eating way too much). I saw nearly everyone I could, so that was nice. I particularly saw a lot of Jeanine, getting our eyebrows threaded, visiting with Jamie and Shantel, and going down to Chambana for a day. Nate also flew in right after Christmas, which was wonderful! We had all sorts of adventures. He joined us on our trip back to U of I, which was a lot of fun, though short. Sadly, we weren't able to meet up with any of the friends we contacted while we were down there, but we made our own fun. We drove all over, from Rantoul to Savoy, seeing what, if anything had changed. It was so weird - I felt so comfortable there, like I'd never left, and yet it was surreal. We visited both malls, hiked the prairie sculpture trail I always enjoyed, went souvenir shopping in campustown, ate at both Za's and Zorba's, as well as the new Flattops Grill...I love the ones in Chicagoland, and this was just as good...leave it to them to open one after I've left! That evening, we did something I'd never done before: we had a bar crawl. This was the ideal time to do so, since there was almost no one around...we had the bars to ourselves! We started out at Legends, where I tried to get their Millennium 99 (is that what it's even called??) which glows...well, I got it, sans the glow stick. Oh well. From there we went to Murphy's where I had a few shots of Dr. McGillicudy's (sp??) peppermint schnapps...sooooo good!! After that we went to Brother's where I tried some concoction on special...it had pineapple in it. From there, we went somewhere just to say we'd been there...Kams!! YETCH!!! I always knew it smelled like vomit when you'd walk by, and I never had a desire to go, although billions of under-aged patrons would render the place a sardine's nightmare. This time, there were only two other patrons, so in we went! The bartender looked surprised to see us (maybe because we're 10 years older than their usual clientelle?), and I had a pre-mixed margarita (Nate had a Jaegermeister - his only deviation from beers all night). It was skeezy and looked like it should have been condemned, but I'm glad to say at least I was able to see the place...too bad C.O.'s was closed.
From there, we visited the Firehouse, a new (to us) bar in campustown and Nate had a 40 of beer, while I had some sort of coffee drink...I don't like coffee, but it was alright. After that, we went to La Bamba's to get a "burrito as big as your head" since that is the culture after doing this bar thing. I don't remember it being so great, but oh well. Lastly, Jeanine (the dd) was kind enough to take us to The Office where we topped off the night with a amaretto stone sour (for old time's sake) and a beer for Nate. It was so interesting to see the bar scene - it wasn't something I'd ever done, but I really can't envision going when it's packed to the gills with crazy college kids. This was the best time for it, and I enjoyed it...probably the only time I'll be doing that, though...bars...ick. :P Unless they're tiki bars, of course!!
Hmm, so what else...well, Nate and I went up to Milwaukee after that to visit the Safe House, a spy-themed bar...it was so cool, especially since the place is accessed in an alley and the entrance says "International Exports, Ltd." or something along those lines...you also need a password to get in, and it's riddled with all sorts of fascinating, gimmicky spy stuff inside. I'd tell you more, but I'd have to kill you. ;) Oh, we also saw the art museum and Pabst Mansion...good times!
For New Years Eve, we were going to try to hit a new tiki bar up in Kenosha, but it was way too snowy, so we opted to stay in and watch Roger Rabbit and have Siberian Frosts. It was a pleasant time, and I'm so glad that Nate was there to spend it with me!!
After Nate left, time just flew. I didn't have nearly enough time to do all I wanted, as usual, but it was still nice. At the end of it all, I got to see several of my high school pals, which was a nice topper to a wonderful trip...but now I need a vacation from my vacation!!
Sadly, it was not to be...today I started a new "job." Well, actually it's a training course for Coldwell Banker Legacy. It feels so awkward to wear something other than jeans to work. The teacher looks like she belongs in a soap opera, and ironically, her daughter is actually ON "As the World Turns." We'll see how these things go...I'm currently at the panic and flee stage...it sounds like they expect a 2 year commitment and that, once successful, there's no turning back...I'm not sure I can do that, though...I'm a green-blooded biologist, and I really do feel like a sell out...but it would be nice to be successful one day (and biology isn't ripe for such prospects, sadly). We'll see how this goes!
As for now, I need some rest! Talk to you soon!
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