Can you blame me for wanting to come back to Germany? (The view out my window)
Yet, can you blame me for coming home?
1 week ago
There's only one me in the galaxy, I am an endangered species
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Occasionally Cary and I reach a lull in conversation. (I know *gasp*, yes sometimes I run out of things to say, shocking). When these situations arise, Cary usually asks me to tell him something he doesn't know about me. Well, as we spend at least an hour a day just talking, I'm usually left blank trying to think of what I possibly haven't told him yet. As I've paid attention the past few days here's ten things you may or may not know about me
1. I really like brussel sprouts
2. I use about 2 rolls of toilet paper a month (I blame a lot of this on runny noses)
3. My wisdom teeth are finally growing in at 23... seriously inconvenient as I no longer have a dental insurance plan
4. I would remove my moles if I could
5. I have a recent irrational fear of not only being pregnant someday, but of that pregnancy being triplets
6. I have a disease. I can't remember the name of it. It supposedly makes me prone to jaundice. Seeing as I have never had a yellowish appearance in my life, I believe the disease is fictious or the doctor mixed up the urine samples.
7. I love peeps! I want to go here
8. I am very frugal... except when it comes to gifts. If I have a good idea I'm excited about, I don't care what it costs.
9. Getting lost frustrates me more than just about anything.
10. Typically I'm completely anti workout videos, but the biggest loser DVD's are actually pretty good and I don't mind doing them.
There, I may be several thousand miles away, but don't you feel a little closer to me ;)
Tune my heart to sing thy grace
Saturday, April 3, 2010
CONFERENCE WEEKEND!!!!!!!
I love conference weekend.
So much inspiration and information in such a small amount of time. It's always too much to soak in at once... that compounded by my human foibles which cause me to dose off or zone out during at least one of the talks...
But I still love conference, and even though I'm in Germany this year, I look forward to plunking down at midnight and watching it with my late night snacks. It'll be late but at least I don't have to roll out of bed early :)
Here's my favorite talk from last conference:
I love Elder Holland because he speaks with such power and assurity. This is the most powerful testimony of The Book of Mormon that I have ever heard in my life. It inspired me when I heard it, and continues to inspire me every time I read it.
Also, in my efforts to become more spiritually prepared for general conference I've been reading other inspirational talks and scriptures. Though not a general conference talk, or from an apostle of the Lord, this BYU Professor spoke on avoiding those things in life that counterfeit happiness. It's a great talk. It's totally worth your time.
She's funny, and I appreciate anyone who can tastefully blend humor and the gospel.
Finally,
my new mantra that I read on my cousin, Emily's, blog
"Spirituality yields two fruits.
The first is INSPIRATION to
know what to do.
The second is POWER, or the
CAPACITY to
do it."
-Richard G. Scott, Apostle of the Lord
But not a real green dress, that's cruel
Friday, April 2, 2010
So April Fool's isn't such a great holiday once you're an adult.... unless you wait tables.
I found it particularly amusing this year to tell people that we no longer provide boxes to take people's food home because we are "going green" and trying to be more environmentally friendly as a company. Ha ha you should see people's eyes get big as they panic and feel the weight of having to finish their meal or throw it away.
Of course, then i'd tell them I was just kidding. But it was fun for a few seconds anyhow.
I found it particularly amusing this year to tell people that we no longer provide boxes to take people's food home because we are "going green" and trying to be more environmentally friendly as a company. Ha ha you should see people's eyes get big as they panic and feel the weight of having to finish their meal or throw it away.
Of course, then i'd tell them I was just kidding. But it was fun for a few seconds anyhow.
All my friends say that of course it's gonna get better
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
After a particularly toxic day at work, I have complainer's remorse. Though i would like to blame part of this on the job and environment in which I work... upon reading a friend's blog, I decided I needed a little attitutde of gratitude refresher... here goes
I am grateful for
Spring
Warm Weather
good friends
I am grateful for
Spring
Warm Weather
good friends
a clean house
a boyfriend who tells me I'm gorgeous
freckles
Institute (I know, don't die from shock, I actually go sometimes ;)
Ice Cream
a boyfriend who tells me I'm gorgeous
freckles
Institute (I know, don't die from shock, I actually go sometimes ;)
Ice Cream
Internet
My breakast bagel sandwiches
hard workouts
Grey's Anatomy (especially this season)
....
and...
this video
My breakast bagel sandwiches
hard workouts
Grey's Anatomy (especially this season)
....
and...
this video
You wear nothing but you wear it so well
Thursday, March 25, 2010
So in all my years spent in a swimsuit (interpret... A LOT), I've concluded that it is an amazing swimsuit when it can leave you feeling confident and hot despite your lack of clothing. Unfortunately, this is not true of all suits (see triangle top bikinis), and thus begins my quest for the perfect suit each spring. I love swimming, I love the pool and even more than that I love the beach (despite my absence in recent years). Though in more recent years, I have been easily converted to the convenience of the two piece swimsuits and flattering tankini's, I stumbled upon this suit.
I like it. A lot.
I don't like it's price.
Question: How much is too much for a swimsuit? How much would you pay for this suit? How much would you pay for this suit if you were me (for some of you the fact that I'm still single, child-less, not in school, etc. might affect your answer for me)?
I like it. A lot.
I don't like it's price.
Question: How much is too much for a swimsuit? How much would you pay for this suit? How much would you pay for this suit if you were me (for some of you the fact that I'm still single, child-less, not in school, etc. might affect your answer for me)?
It's a secret no one tells
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
There's nothing like a drive to clear your mind. No, there's nothing like a drive on a cool spring night with some good music to clear your mind. No wait, there's nothing like a drive on a cool spring night, good music, no speed limit and no stop signs or stop light to really clear your mind.
I love driving and I especially love driving in Germany. That is all.
I love driving and I especially love driving in Germany. That is all.
True, it may seem like a stretch
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Sometimes, Cary and I have funny conversations. We have a tendency to go back to the same two arguments on a regular basis.
The first argument being Cary loves dogs and I hate dogs, with both of us trying to win eachother over to the other's side. (It's probably a lost cause, but shhh don't tell him I admitted that).
The second argument being Cary thinks girls are more expensive than boys and I disagree, thus constantly trying to disprove this theory, mostly by proving that he is more expensive than me. Sadly, one point for him, as I recently realized that bathrooms all over europe require change to use them. This is clearly a hateful discrimination against women, since we are the civilized gender who don't feel the need to relieve ourselves anywhere and everywhere just because we can. (Don't try to argue that we can't! See this post.)
Anyhow, I digress. The point of the post being our arguments are entertaining because we are both ridiculous. Allow me to illustrate our most recent discussion...
While talking on skype, Cary states that he likes my brown eyes (which you can't even see on skype), which leads to a discussion of brown vs. blue eyes. He then informs me that blue eyes are actually a genetic mutation that can be linked back to one person? How science has tracked a mutation all the way back before DNA tracking is beyond me (and when questioned, Cary just says "don't question science, carla" (ha ha sarcastically of course, don't go on a rant about him believing everything scientific)). Anyhow all of this leads to a discussion of why we have the eye color we have, how genes are passed to your kids, recessive vs. dominant,... blah blah blah....
>>>enter best part of convo<<<
Carla: Basically blue eyes are hot because they're rare.
Cary: No, they're not.
Carla: Yeah, they are. Just think about it. Asians, Africans, South American's all have brown eyes. Then there's all the caucasians with brown eyes. It's like 90% of the world population has brown eyes! (Of course I totally pulled this number out of thin air, but it sounded good...)
Cary: You totally just made that number up. It is not 90% (followed by the eyeroll.) I'm gonna google it.
Carla: (in my head: ha ha crap he totally called my bluff... why am I such a bad liar?) Fine. Look it up.
Cary: (opens first sight) are you kidding me!
Carla: Wait what!?!?! It says 90%? Ha ha ha ha I was so right. Bahaha that's hilarious. I totally just pulled that number out of thin air. That's right. I can't believe you ever even question me.
Cary: Whatever. You're ridiculous (as he continues looking for contradicting research).
Nevermind that I totally admitted that I lied, I was right none the less, and that my friends is what it's all about!
The first argument being Cary loves dogs and I hate dogs, with both of us trying to win eachother over to the other's side. (It's probably a lost cause, but shhh don't tell him I admitted that).
The second argument being Cary thinks girls are more expensive than boys and I disagree, thus constantly trying to disprove this theory, mostly by proving that he is more expensive than me. Sadly, one point for him, as I recently realized that bathrooms all over europe require change to use them. This is clearly a hateful discrimination against women, since we are the civilized gender who don't feel the need to relieve ourselves anywhere and everywhere just because we can. (Don't try to argue that we can't! See this post.)
Anyhow, I digress. The point of the post being our arguments are entertaining because we are both ridiculous. Allow me to illustrate our most recent discussion...
While talking on skype, Cary states that he likes my brown eyes (which you can't even see on skype), which leads to a discussion of brown vs. blue eyes. He then informs me that blue eyes are actually a genetic mutation that can be linked back to one person? How science has tracked a mutation all the way back before DNA tracking is beyond me (and when questioned, Cary just says "don't question science, carla" (ha ha sarcastically of course, don't go on a rant about him believing everything scientific)). Anyhow all of this leads to a discussion of why we have the eye color we have, how genes are passed to your kids, recessive vs. dominant,... blah blah blah....
>>>enter best part of convo<<<
Carla: Basically blue eyes are hot because they're rare.
Cary: No, they're not.
Carla: Yeah, they are. Just think about it. Asians, Africans, South American's all have brown eyes. Then there's all the caucasians with brown eyes. It's like 90% of the world population has brown eyes! (Of course I totally pulled this number out of thin air, but it sounded good...)
Cary: You totally just made that number up. It is not 90% (followed by the eyeroll.) I'm gonna google it.
Carla: (in my head: ha ha crap he totally called my bluff... why am I such a bad liar?) Fine. Look it up.
Cary: (opens first sight) are you kidding me!
Carla: Wait what!?!?! It says 90%? Ha ha ha ha I was so right. Bahaha that's hilarious. I totally just pulled that number out of thin air. That's right. I can't believe you ever even question me.
Cary: Whatever. You're ridiculous (as he continues looking for contradicting research).
Nevermind that I totally admitted that I lied, I was right none the less, and that my friends is what it's all about!
I'll show you that French joie de vivre!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Parlez vous francais?
Nope, well neither do I, so good thing this review of Paris is in English.
My Paris Top Ten (But in no particular order)
1. The ICE (german TGV) train is awesome. Why wouldn't anyone want to get somewhere twice as fast as other transportation. And it really does look like you're moving faster from within the train. Also, unlike the airport, it's nice to be dropped right at one of the most popular stations in central Paris so you can hop right on the Metro and go where you need to go.
2. The european tradition of Crepes and Nutella. So good! They have special crepe makers (pictured below) which make amazing crepes. The only problem is that nutella has a way of sparking thirst which leads me to my ongoing rant about europe's tyrannical monopoly on our basic needs as humans. I mean what next europe? Oh you're charging me 5 euros to breathe your oxygen... ok, sure, I love to pay ridiculous fees just because I can.
Seriously, it's called a water fountain. How about we invest in some.
3. The Louvre. Ok, it's no secret I'm not much for Art Museum's so why would I go to one of the most famous Art Museums in the world. Well, because that's what you do. Especially if you want to claim you've personally seen the mona lisa.
Apparently I don't care too much about that claim. (I wouldn't wait in line for a direct shot)
This statue was my favorite.
Wanna rub the lucky toe ;) C'mon I know you do.
Ok, feet gross you out. How about the baby toe? Nobody minds baby toes. It's lucky....
4. Le Metropolitain. The metro in paris is easy to use despite the language barrier. True there is kind of a stench, and it's the most crowded metro I've used, but easy none the less. Best part, if you go to the metro station that is by Ikea, it's decorated and decked out with Ikea couches for you to relax while you wait for your ride!
5. Like most undergrounds, subways, metros, there are musicians sharing their talents with weary travelers, and paris has a group of about 15 students/professors called Classique Metropolitain who have a mini orchestra playing in the metro. Their purpose is to spread awareness of classical music to those who may not otherwise be exposed. I must admit they were amazing!
This also got me wondering how I should pitch a reality tv show that's a Metro Battle of the Bands so to speak. We can travel the world finding the most talent in diffferent cities metro stations. It'd be a world wide reality tv show to prove which city has better underground music. We could call it "So you think you make tips?," "Amazing Cover Artist," "The Musician," or "Musician: Paris Underground."
Ha ha, no I'm serious. How do I go about pitching this? I would love to travel and it's like survivor meets amazing race meets so you think you can dance.
6. The famous traffic circle around the Arc de Triomphe. The pictures don't do it justice. But it's pretty much a free for all. There are rules to follow, but it would be gracious to call it organized chaos.
7. The Eiffel Tower. It just didn't seem right to come live in europe and not see the eiffel tower. It's huge! It is pretty amazing to see in person. All the guys trying to sell you cheap eiffel tower trinkets get really old though.
8. The ability to walk through Paris. Many of the major sites are extremely close together. It was a gorgeous day and it's a gorgeous city with the walkways lined with trees and old, elaborate buildings all around you. There are parks every mile or so and fountains with ducks. Now if only there were some gelato stands...
9. Champs Elysees.Paris' Magnificient Mile. Upscale shopping, fancy restaurants, and tons of pedestrians. Definitely a must if you are looking for the iconic Paris shopping experience.
10. Cathedral of Notre Dame. You can't help but find yourself singing "God help the outcasts, hungry from birth..." Haha oh how deeply ingrained disney is. Seriously though, the Cathedral is beautiful. I am a little tired of the Cathedrals, but this and Westminster Abbey are my favorites. I just wish the line hadn't been so long to see the Gargoyles :( Oh, well if I ever make it back to Paris that's top on my to-do list.
(this photo wasn't taken by me, next time i'll have my own bonafied gargoyle pictures)
Nope, well neither do I, so good thing this review of Paris is in English.
My Paris Top Ten (But in no particular order)
1. The ICE (german TGV) train is awesome. Why wouldn't anyone want to get somewhere twice as fast as other transportation. And it really does look like you're moving faster from within the train. Also, unlike the airport, it's nice to be dropped right at one of the most popular stations in central Paris so you can hop right on the Metro and go where you need to go.
2. The european tradition of Crepes and Nutella. So good! They have special crepe makers (pictured below) which make amazing crepes. The only problem is that nutella has a way of sparking thirst which leads me to my ongoing rant about europe's tyrannical monopoly on our basic needs as humans. I mean what next europe? Oh you're charging me 5 euros to breathe your oxygen... ok, sure, I love to pay ridiculous fees just because I can.
Seriously, it's called a water fountain. How about we invest in some.
3. The Louvre. Ok, it's no secret I'm not much for Art Museum's so why would I go to one of the most famous Art Museums in the world. Well, because that's what you do. Especially if you want to claim you've personally seen the mona lisa.
Apparently I don't care too much about that claim. (I wouldn't wait in line for a direct shot)
This statue was my favorite.
Wanna rub the lucky toe ;) C'mon I know you do.
Ok, feet gross you out. How about the baby toe? Nobody minds baby toes. It's lucky....
4. Le Metropolitain. The metro in paris is easy to use despite the language barrier. True there is kind of a stench, and it's the most crowded metro I've used, but easy none the less. Best part, if you go to the metro station that is by Ikea, it's decorated and decked out with Ikea couches for you to relax while you wait for your ride!
5. Like most undergrounds, subways, metros, there are musicians sharing their talents with weary travelers, and paris has a group of about 15 students/professors called Classique Metropolitain who have a mini orchestra playing in the metro. Their purpose is to spread awareness of classical music to those who may not otherwise be exposed. I must admit they were amazing!
This also got me wondering how I should pitch a reality tv show that's a Metro Battle of the Bands so to speak. We can travel the world finding the most talent in diffferent cities metro stations. It'd be a world wide reality tv show to prove which city has better underground music. We could call it "So you think you make tips?," "Amazing Cover Artist," "The Musician," or "Musician: Paris Underground."
Ha ha, no I'm serious. How do I go about pitching this? I would love to travel and it's like survivor meets amazing race meets so you think you can dance.
6. The famous traffic circle around the Arc de Triomphe. The pictures don't do it justice. But it's pretty much a free for all. There are rules to follow, but it would be gracious to call it organized chaos.
7. The Eiffel Tower. It just didn't seem right to come live in europe and not see the eiffel tower. It's huge! It is pretty amazing to see in person. All the guys trying to sell you cheap eiffel tower trinkets get really old though.
8. The ability to walk through Paris. Many of the major sites are extremely close together. It was a gorgeous day and it's a gorgeous city with the walkways lined with trees and old, elaborate buildings all around you. There are parks every mile or so and fountains with ducks. Now if only there were some gelato stands...
9. Champs Elysees.Paris' Magnificient Mile. Upscale shopping, fancy restaurants, and tons of pedestrians. Definitely a must if you are looking for the iconic Paris shopping experience.
10. Cathedral of Notre Dame. You can't help but find yourself singing "God help the outcasts, hungry from birth..." Haha oh how deeply ingrained disney is. Seriously though, the Cathedral is beautiful. I am a little tired of the Cathedrals, but this and Westminster Abbey are my favorites. I just wish the line hadn't been so long to see the Gargoyles :( Oh, well if I ever make it back to Paris that's top on my to-do list.
(this photo wasn't taken by me, next time i'll have my own bonafied gargoyle pictures)
You're faking a smile with the coffee to go
Friday, March 12, 2010
I am not a cry-er.
I am not a very emotional girl. Some may call me heartless, i prefer to think of it as not letting my hormones get the better of me.
I had a meltdown at work tonight.
I hate my job some days. I hate that I had enough horrible tables to lead to a meltdown. I hate that people try to tear down their server over something as simple as food. I hate that after a point I take it personally. I hate that I built up walls to keep in the emotions, and that a fellow server asking me if I was ok (at the end of the night) lead to me losing control of my tear ducts.
I hate that I have no friends here to make me forget this night ever happened.
"Bad Day" -Fuel
Had a bad day again
She said I would not understand
She left a note and said, "I'm sorry I
had a bad day again"
She spilled her coffee, broke her shoelace
Smeared the lipstick on her face
Slammed the door and said, "I'm sorry I
had a bad day again"
And she swears there's nothing wrong
I hear her playing that same old song
She puts me off and puts me on
And had a bad day again
She said I would not understand
Left a note and said, "I'm sorry I
had a bad day again"
I am not a very emotional girl. Some may call me heartless, i prefer to think of it as not letting my hormones get the better of me.
I had a meltdown at work tonight.
I hate my job some days. I hate that I had enough horrible tables to lead to a meltdown. I hate that people try to tear down their server over something as simple as food. I hate that after a point I take it personally. I hate that I built up walls to keep in the emotions, and that a fellow server asking me if I was ok (at the end of the night) lead to me losing control of my tear ducts.
I hate that I have no friends here to make me forget this night ever happened.
"Bad Day" -Fuel
Had a bad day again
She said I would not understand
She left a note and said, "I'm sorry I
had a bad day again"
She spilled her coffee, broke her shoelace
Smeared the lipstick on her face
Slammed the door and said, "I'm sorry I
had a bad day again"
And she swears there's nothing wrong
I hear her playing that same old song
She puts me off and puts me on
And had a bad day again
She said I would not understand
Left a note and said, "I'm sorry I
had a bad day again"
I hate everyone
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Sometimes this song just captures how I feel that day...
Some stupid chick in the checkout line
Was paying for beer with nickels and dimes
And some old man who clipped coupons
Had argued whenever they wouldn't take one
All I wanted to was buy some cigarettes
But I couldn't take it anymore so I left
I hate everyone (4x)
....edit....
All the people on the street, I hate you all
And the people that I meet, I hate you all
And the people that I know, I hate you all
And the people that I don't, I hate you all
Oh, I hate you all
I bet you think I'm kidding
But I promise you it's true
I hate most everybody
But most of all I hate
Oh, I hate you
All the people on the street, I hate you all
And the people that I meet, I hate you all
And the people that I know, I hate you all
And the people that I don't, I hate you all
And the people in the east, I hate you all
And the people I hate least, I hate you all
And the people in the west, I hate you all
And the people I like best, I hate you all
Oh, I hate you all
-Get, Set, Go
***No, i'm not depressed, or really filled with hate, or even this dramatic... it was just a hard day, one day, so no need for your cheer up comments***
Some stupid chick in the checkout line
Was paying for beer with nickels and dimes
And some old man who clipped coupons
Had argued whenever they wouldn't take one
All I wanted to was buy some cigarettes
But I couldn't take it anymore so I left
I hate everyone (4x)
....edit....
All the people on the street, I hate you all
And the people that I meet, I hate you all
And the people that I know, I hate you all
And the people that I don't, I hate you all
Oh, I hate you all
I bet you think I'm kidding
But I promise you it's true
I hate most everybody
But most of all I hate
Oh, I hate you
All the people on the street, I hate you all
And the people that I meet, I hate you all
And the people that I know, I hate you all
And the people that I don't, I hate you all
And the people in the east, I hate you all
And the people I hate least, I hate you all
And the people in the west, I hate you all
And the people I like best, I hate you all
Oh, I hate you all
-Get, Set, Go
***No, i'm not depressed, or really filled with hate, or even this dramatic... it was just a hard day, one day, so no need for your cheer up comments***
That's just the way it is
Fast food in Germany.
So I was craving a burger. You're all judging me right now, but it's true. And I didn't want some overpriced(yeah, 10-12 bucks everyone) supposedly gourmet burger on base, I just wanted a cheap, fatty yet delicious fast food burger. So after a week and a half, I succumbed and frequented my local off base chain (there is a BK on base, but it closes at 9... don't get me started).
Fast food in germany... equals so much better. As tim once said "It actually looks like the pictures." This makes me wonder, WHY? I mean, these are American Brands. American based restaurants. Doesn't it make more sense for us to be the one's doing it right?
Eh, the truth is though, I'm not willing to trade my dollar menu for quality control... it is just fast food after all.
So I was craving a burger. You're all judging me right now, but it's true. And I didn't want some overpriced(yeah, 10-12 bucks everyone) supposedly gourmet burger on base, I just wanted a cheap, fatty yet delicious fast food burger. So after a week and a half, I succumbed and frequented my local off base chain (there is a BK on base, but it closes at 9... don't get me started).
Fast food in germany... equals so much better. As tim once said "It actually looks like the pictures." This makes me wonder, WHY? I mean, these are American Brands. American based restaurants. Doesn't it make more sense for us to be the one's doing it right?
Eh, the truth is though, I'm not willing to trade my dollar menu for quality control... it is just fast food after all.
I used to think life had a plan for me, until I realized life had to be planned by me
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
I have discovered my new calling in life!
Wait for it, wait for it....
Yeah, you can just feel the excitement building.
I know.
It's gonna be good.
Carla has finally figured out what that elusive "real job" is supposed to be.
ta du ta da!!!!!! Drumroll.....
An Air Force Network radio personality!
What, your face just dropped? Not excitiing? Seriously? You're kidding right? How can you not be as excited as I am?... Ok, let me expound.
Welcome to AFN. There is absolutely no limit to the cheesyness of this network. And why, because they have a captive audience. It is the only english channel for about 80,000 Americans. It posts the news, the exchange rates, military news you can't get on the internet, closings on the base, weather and the military sports teams competitions and outcomes.
Allow me to illustrate some of the segments:
"Soaring through another set of great music, AFN the eagle, serving America's Best" (don't get offended that you're clearly not America's Best because you listen to some other radio station)
"Today there is traffic on the autobahn (seriously?)... The dollar got a little stronger, YAY! It's now .722 to the euro as opposed to yesterdays .721 (yup only a difference when spending thousands of dollars). Also it looks like it might rain today (it rains everyday in Germany). Well that's all for our news, how bout a little nickelback for you..."
They do this bit over then play a single song, and repeat. Yup, the same ridiculous sort of content followed by one, i repeat one song.
Honestly, not only could I do this job. I could do it well. I think I could be infinitely more entertaining, play better music, and have people listen to the station out of desire not just lack of options.
What do you think?
1. Is my ego in need of deflating?
2. Would you host an opposing radio station, in the spirit of capitalism?
3. Would you be a guest on my radio show?
4. Would you veto Nickelback from the radio if you were a dj?
**Complete side note: The title lead me to discover that realize and realise are the same word, only American's use z and other english speaking countries use s. It's very similar to color v. colour. Fascinating, eh? What can I say, we Americans like to be different.**
Wait for it, wait for it....
Yeah, you can just feel the excitement building.
I know.
It's gonna be good.
Carla has finally figured out what that elusive "real job" is supposed to be.
ta du ta da!!!!!! Drumroll.....
An Air Force Network radio personality!
What, your face just dropped? Not excitiing? Seriously? You're kidding right? How can you not be as excited as I am?... Ok, let me expound.
Welcome to AFN. There is absolutely no limit to the cheesyness of this network. And why, because they have a captive audience. It is the only english channel for about 80,000 Americans. It posts the news, the exchange rates, military news you can't get on the internet, closings on the base, weather and the military sports teams competitions and outcomes.
Allow me to illustrate some of the segments:
"Soaring through another set of great music, AFN the eagle, serving America's Best" (don't get offended that you're clearly not America's Best because you listen to some other radio station)
"Today there is traffic on the autobahn (seriously?)... The dollar got a little stronger, YAY! It's now .722 to the euro as opposed to yesterdays .721 (yup only a difference when spending thousands of dollars). Also it looks like it might rain today (it rains everyday in Germany). Well that's all for our news, how bout a little nickelback for you..."
They do this bit over then play a single song, and repeat. Yup, the same ridiculous sort of content followed by one, i repeat one song.
Honestly, not only could I do this job. I could do it well. I think I could be infinitely more entertaining, play better music, and have people listen to the station out of desire not just lack of options.
What do you think?
1. Is my ego in need of deflating?
2. Would you host an opposing radio station, in the spirit of capitalism?
3. Would you be a guest on my radio show?
4. Would you veto Nickelback from the radio if you were a dj?
**Complete side note: The title lead me to discover that realize and realise are the same word, only American's use z and other english speaking countries use s. It's very similar to color v. colour. Fascinating, eh? What can I say, we Americans like to be different.**
Trying to find exactly what I miss
Saturday, February 27, 2010
I'm currently reading Spencer W. Kimball's "Faith Precedes the Miracle." I enjoy studying the gospel through the prophets because I often find it is easier to understand. This book uses almost constant scriptural reference and although I have read the same scriptures before and do understand their intent I appreciate the insights of our past prophet.
In reading prophets teachings however, I sometimes feel my beliefs, the modern world, and their statements conflict. Occasionally, I struggle to understand and I'm not sure if it's my own stubborn, opinionated approach to life, or if there might be justice in my thinking.
Let me highlight my current hangup for the sake of receiving any insights those who stumble upon my blog might care to divulge.
It's from the chapter, John and Mary, Beginning Life Together. First conflict: p 128 discusses the error young women make in preparing for a career that they will not follow. He specifically mentions languages, mathematics and business. He continues to discuss the need for studies relating to homemaking and child-rearing. Although I agree that understanding children, and the ability to teach and cook will make motherhood (a role I do wish to someday achieve) much easier, I don't understand the logic behind criticizing these other degrees. We can't all major in Marriage and Family Relations! And what a sad world it would be if we did. I make the argument that though some mothers are amazing mothers because they tell great stories and cook and sew; are not other mothers amazing because they can instill in their young children a sense of entrepeneurship and the concepts necessary to go on and start successful businesses. Some mothers make homemade bread and some mothers buy their bread. Must we be so quick to judge one mother over the other. Is that not the great understanding of our Heavenly Father to allow all different women to be mothers, each with their different skills and talents to raise children with these varying talents? And what about those women who will not be blessed to have children? Should they also deny their talents in "languages and mathematics and business?" As a young women today, how is one to know that you will not be called upon to support yourself, and or a family? Heaven forbid, I were to get married and my husband pass away, I will wish I was a successful business woman with her MBA and the skills necessary to provide for my family with a job that only requires me to be gone minimal hours a week.
Another paragraph that got me, p 129 "You wouldn't want to work outside the home... broken homes resulting when women leave their posts at home. You will remain at home... and when John comes home tired, you will be fresh and pleasant." Ok, really. As you know, if you're actually my friend, I am a bit of a work-aholic. I love working. And although I would love the opportunity to stay home with my children, part of me thinks that I would still enjoy a few hours working when I'm a mom (paid or volunteer). AND, the whole bit about being fresh and pleasant when the hubby comes home tired sounds like a load of bull to me. Ok, I've tended children and I've worked 12 hour shifts waiting tables and we've all heard me complain about waiting but seriously, taking care of kids is SOOOO much more tiring. Kids require infinite patience and even more energy! I will try to look good and keep my house nice, so that my husband will want to come home... but to think that he'll be tired and I won't because I've "just been at home all day" is the biggest lie I've ever heard.
I don't want to be misunderstood as disagreeing with the basic principles of the church or saying that the prophets are wrong. I believe that males and females are inherently different with individual roles. I also believe that it is important for a mother to raise her children. I just struggle to fit these ideals into my life in the world today. Am I supposed to wait around sewing and cooking until I find a husband and have children? Should I not be so hard on myself for not working in my field and gaining work experience, because I wish to someday raise children? Is it valid to argue that perhaps the life we live is different than the life some of our prophets who preached these doctrines lived? I mean we face different challenges than even our parents twenty years ago, and our children yet will face new challenges. We live in a world that changes on a daily basis, and though gospel principles do not change, I believe that our approach to effectively living those principles might require us to adapt.
Many of those who read this blog are talented, college educated mothers whom I respect to the utmost, brilliant career women working on furthering their education, or students diligently studying their field of interest (shelli just finish stats!). What do you think? Have you read this book? What are your thoughts relating to the Church's views on women's roles?
To end on a less serious note, there was a passage that just made me happy. Allow me to share: "There has grown up a deplorable exploitation of young women in queen contests. Practically every school, industry, political subdivision, celebration, and class must have a queen. There are queens for every vegetable, fruit, farm product, until it is ludicrous." Anyhow, he continues for two pages criticizing beauty pageants which just makes me laugh. Oh Utah and your beauty pageants...
I think I could win a title ;)
In reading prophets teachings however, I sometimes feel my beliefs, the modern world, and their statements conflict. Occasionally, I struggle to understand and I'm not sure if it's my own stubborn, opinionated approach to life, or if there might be justice in my thinking.
Let me highlight my current hangup for the sake of receiving any insights those who stumble upon my blog might care to divulge.
It's from the chapter, John and Mary, Beginning Life Together. First conflict: p 128 discusses the error young women make in preparing for a career that they will not follow. He specifically mentions languages, mathematics and business. He continues to discuss the need for studies relating to homemaking and child-rearing. Although I agree that understanding children, and the ability to teach and cook will make motherhood (a role I do wish to someday achieve) much easier, I don't understand the logic behind criticizing these other degrees. We can't all major in Marriage and Family Relations! And what a sad world it would be if we did. I make the argument that though some mothers are amazing mothers because they tell great stories and cook and sew; are not other mothers amazing because they can instill in their young children a sense of entrepeneurship and the concepts necessary to go on and start successful businesses. Some mothers make homemade bread and some mothers buy their bread. Must we be so quick to judge one mother over the other. Is that not the great understanding of our Heavenly Father to allow all different women to be mothers, each with their different skills and talents to raise children with these varying talents? And what about those women who will not be blessed to have children? Should they also deny their talents in "languages and mathematics and business?" As a young women today, how is one to know that you will not be called upon to support yourself, and or a family? Heaven forbid, I were to get married and my husband pass away, I will wish I was a successful business woman with her MBA and the skills necessary to provide for my family with a job that only requires me to be gone minimal hours a week.
Another paragraph that got me, p 129 "You wouldn't want to work outside the home... broken homes resulting when women leave their posts at home. You will remain at home... and when John comes home tired, you will be fresh and pleasant." Ok, really. As you know, if you're actually my friend, I am a bit of a work-aholic. I love working. And although I would love the opportunity to stay home with my children, part of me thinks that I would still enjoy a few hours working when I'm a mom (paid or volunteer). AND, the whole bit about being fresh and pleasant when the hubby comes home tired sounds like a load of bull to me. Ok, I've tended children and I've worked 12 hour shifts waiting tables and we've all heard me complain about waiting but seriously, taking care of kids is SOOOO much more tiring. Kids require infinite patience and even more energy! I will try to look good and keep my house nice, so that my husband will want to come home... but to think that he'll be tired and I won't because I've "just been at home all day" is the biggest lie I've ever heard.
I don't want to be misunderstood as disagreeing with the basic principles of the church or saying that the prophets are wrong. I believe that males and females are inherently different with individual roles. I also believe that it is important for a mother to raise her children. I just struggle to fit these ideals into my life in the world today. Am I supposed to wait around sewing and cooking until I find a husband and have children? Should I not be so hard on myself for not working in my field and gaining work experience, because I wish to someday raise children? Is it valid to argue that perhaps the life we live is different than the life some of our prophets who preached these doctrines lived? I mean we face different challenges than even our parents twenty years ago, and our children yet will face new challenges. We live in a world that changes on a daily basis, and though gospel principles do not change, I believe that our approach to effectively living those principles might require us to adapt.
Many of those who read this blog are talented, college educated mothers whom I respect to the utmost, brilliant career women working on furthering their education, or students diligently studying their field of interest (shelli just finish stats!). What do you think? Have you read this book? What are your thoughts relating to the Church's views on women's roles?
To end on a less serious note, there was a passage that just made me happy. Allow me to share: "There has grown up a deplorable exploitation of young women in queen contests. Practically every school, industry, political subdivision, celebration, and class must have a queen. There are queens for every vegetable, fruit, farm product, until it is ludicrous." Anyhow, he continues for two pages criticizing beauty pageants which just makes me laugh. Oh Utah and your beauty pageants...
I think I could win a title ;)
Look at this photograph, everytime I do it makes me laugh
Thursday, February 25, 2010
I heard this line (yes, I do listen to Nickelback, and no I will not apologize) and had to show my embarassing photos.
Sometimes, I think it's funny to put the whole orange in your mouth at once.
This is me Preggers! (Or prepping to be Juno for halloween)
Sometimes, I think it's funny to put the whole orange in your mouth at once.
This is me Preggers! (Or prepping to be Juno for halloween)
Can't forget we only get what we give
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
As previously devised, I'm breaking my info into seperate posts. Read further if you missed post 1 and 2 and 3.
Last Month in Review, Post 4: German Discoveries (as defined in a previous post, these discoveries are not necessarily German, though they may be, more accurately is that I discovered them whilst in Germany).
1. Belgian truffles are the best. I mean melt in your mouth, delicate blends of sweet and bitter that leave you wondering what hit you and aching for more. Never understood addiction? Try a truffle.
2. I don't get to eat many German foods since I live near a base, and I'm American (therefore I cook like an American), but I tried currywurst. It was alright, but I'd pick a döner over it any day.
3. German windows are sweet! You can turn the handle up to just vent the window open from the top (the bottom is still attached), or you can turn the handle down to completely open the window (the side is still attached). I suppose it's nothing special, but I like them. Although no window screens won't be so pleasant come mosquito season.
4. The Germans believe in steam mops... and now, so do I. Awesome! I used this one called the Maxx clean steam mop. I love it! I wish I could take it home with me. Yes, I am praising cleaning supplies on my blog, don't judge. What's that scripture verse... Cleanliness is next to Godliness. Ha ha ok I don't think that's a verse but whatever.
5. At German parades they give out cups of beer. Sorry kids, no candy... we prefer depressants over stimulants.
6. I really enjoy biking to get where I need to go. I especially enjoy it when the weather is nice. It is not so much fun to bike when it is snowing. The other night I was minding my own business, biking home from work and the blue lights start flashing. The polizei pull up beside me and start screaming at me in German. I meekly reply I'm sorry I don't speak German, just English. They keep yelling in German, and then finally "Dangerous! Dangerous!" I said sorry, they muttered stuff and then left. Well, I think I'm aware that it is "dangerous!", but I had to get home. Geez, they could have offered me a ride if it's soooo dangerous.
7. Speaking of snow. I'm tired of it. Worst winter in 30 years here in Ramstein, Germany. I wish it would stop. But then I remembered sno-creme. Did anyone else make this as a kid? I'd go out and collect a bunch of fresh snow (before it was tainted (yellow) by some animal, or walked on by some child (said with disgust... like who walks on snow ;)) Anyhow, then you add milk, sugar and vanilla to the snow and mix. I think that was all and it made this milk shake slush something that I used to think was so good. Funny memory to randomly come back, and I have an inkling that I'm the only kid weird enough to have done this? Confirm or deny?
8. While on facebook lately, there's always this ad to make "a love child" and combine your features with someone else's to see what your child would look like. The pictures are hilarious (see below) and it's so tempting. I wish you didn't have to pay for it.
Last Month in Review, Post 4: German Discoveries (as defined in a previous post, these discoveries are not necessarily German, though they may be, more accurately is that I discovered them whilst in Germany).
1. Belgian truffles are the best. I mean melt in your mouth, delicate blends of sweet and bitter that leave you wondering what hit you and aching for more. Never understood addiction? Try a truffle.
2. I don't get to eat many German foods since I live near a base, and I'm American (therefore I cook like an American), but I tried currywurst. It was alright, but I'd pick a döner over it any day.
3. German windows are sweet! You can turn the handle up to just vent the window open from the top (the bottom is still attached), or you can turn the handle down to completely open the window (the side is still attached). I suppose it's nothing special, but I like them. Although no window screens won't be so pleasant come mosquito season.
4. The Germans believe in steam mops... and now, so do I. Awesome! I used this one called the Maxx clean steam mop. I love it! I wish I could take it home with me. Yes, I am praising cleaning supplies on my blog, don't judge. What's that scripture verse... Cleanliness is next to Godliness. Ha ha ok I don't think that's a verse but whatever.
5. At German parades they give out cups of beer. Sorry kids, no candy... we prefer depressants over stimulants.
6. I really enjoy biking to get where I need to go. I especially enjoy it when the weather is nice. It is not so much fun to bike when it is snowing. The other night I was minding my own business, biking home from work and the blue lights start flashing. The polizei pull up beside me and start screaming at me in German. I meekly reply I'm sorry I don't speak German, just English. They keep yelling in German, and then finally "Dangerous! Dangerous!" I said sorry, they muttered stuff and then left. Well, I think I'm aware that it is "dangerous!", but I had to get home. Geez, they could have offered me a ride if it's soooo dangerous.
7. Speaking of snow. I'm tired of it. Worst winter in 30 years here in Ramstein, Germany. I wish it would stop. But then I remembered sno-creme. Did anyone else make this as a kid? I'd go out and collect a bunch of fresh snow (before it was tainted (yellow) by some animal, or walked on by some child (said with disgust... like who walks on snow ;)) Anyhow, then you add milk, sugar and vanilla to the snow and mix. I think that was all and it made this milk shake slush something that I used to think was so good. Funny memory to randomly come back, and I have an inkling that I'm the only kid weird enough to have done this? Confirm or deny?
8. While on facebook lately, there's always this ad to make "a love child" and combine your features with someone else's to see what your child would look like. The pictures are hilarious (see below) and it's so tempting. I wish you didn't have to pay for it.
Don't give up, you got a reason to live
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
As previously devised, I'm breaking my info into seperate posts. Read further if you missed post 1 and 2.
Last Month in Review, Post 3: The Restaurant Life
Since I know you're all dying to know all about waiting tables in germany (and so Cary doesn't have to suffer through my endless drabble on this topic) I bring to you the difference between Mac Grill stateside, and the MacGreasy in Germany!
Here's the break down:
Gorgeous Restaurant! And for some reason that just makes it more fun to work in. However, it also means that I have to sweep those beautiful wood floors, which is not so fun.
I get paid hourly! Yeah, yeah, i got paid hourly in the states, but $2.13 an hour doesn't count as pay when it's all taken in taxes and every check is void. Here it's actually a sizeable sum.
Hourly pay affects Tips :( People think that because it is europe and because we get a pay, they only need to tip 10% or not tip at all. I'm sorry, are you receiving the same crappy service you get in German restaurants? Do I act inconvenienced by your visit to my restaurant? Do you get anything other than your every whim satisfied whilst sitting in my section? That's right. You get American service, from Carla (meaning even better than necessary service). You always have a full drink (refills free of charge), your food is hot, or cold, or whichever modified way you require it, you get a smile, regular visits, and I even clean up after your little brat that you let empty every single sugar packet! So TIP like an american... Capiche?
Sorry about the rant, but yeah lots of peeps tip 10%, which sucks... however, thanks to the servicemen of my country, wink wink, I average good tips! Gotta love those tables of single guys!
It is so much busier than in the states. Due to a lack of options,(chili's, a crappy burger place, or the Mac-a-tuna) we are regularly on a wait. I also usually have a 5 table section (9 tables last saturday, yikes) and I usually have at least $800 in sales... which when you figure somewhere between ten to twenty percent tips, it works out pretty well.
The cooks here suck. Nothing against my German friends in general, but most of the cooks are German and there's a very different work ethic. They generally do not understand terms such as hurry, rush, on the fly, today, and the like. They figure people will get the food when they feel like making it. However, 40 minutes to make a fettucine alfredo doesn't exactly fit into the American service I described before and this sometimes creates a lot of stress where I'm concerned.
Also on the slow end are the bussers. Oh wait, yes, that's correct we have bussers. And yes I do bus all my own tables. The bussers here are worthless, but I still owe them 3% of my sales at the end of the night. Back home we as servers choose how much we tip out the bussers. This system can hurt the bussers because there are stingy servers; yet, mandating tip out bites because there's no incentive for the bussers to do anything, and it can be anywhere from 20 to 35% of your tips, which bites.
The fellow servers here are definitely different. The majority smoke, got married before age 20, have several children, and look about 18. There's a server who works here with his fiance and girlfriend. The servers cuss in, at, and around tables, and then hit up the strip clubs and brothels after work or drink beer until 6 in the morning. I suppose this isn't too different than most restaurants, but it's interesting to come back to this setting after serving in Provo, Utah for so long. Don't get me wrong, I still work with some great people... just different.
I don't have a car. This kinda sucks. I bike occasionally, but people are also really nice about giving rides to and from work. Everybody carpools here and doesn't seem to make a big deal out of it.
Overall, it's just a job. I enjoy it because I get to do what I'm good at, I stay busy, and I generally make as much money as I want to put effort into it. I don't think I'm necessarily making life long friends, but it's not exactly the bonding scene that Provo Macshack is either. It'll do for now, but I'm looking to get out of the restaurant industry when I get back.... if you know of any positions, ideas, suggestions... let me know!
Last Month in Review, Post 3: The Restaurant Life
Since I know you're all dying to know all about waiting tables in germany (and so Cary doesn't have to suffer through my endless drabble on this topic) I bring to you the difference between Mac Grill stateside, and the MacGreasy in Germany!
Here's the break down:
Gorgeous Restaurant! And for some reason that just makes it more fun to work in. However, it also means that I have to sweep those beautiful wood floors, which is not so fun.
I get paid hourly! Yeah, yeah, i got paid hourly in the states, but $2.13 an hour doesn't count as pay when it's all taken in taxes and every check is void. Here it's actually a sizeable sum.
Hourly pay affects Tips :( People think that because it is europe and because we get a pay, they only need to tip 10% or not tip at all. I'm sorry, are you receiving the same crappy service you get in German restaurants? Do I act inconvenienced by your visit to my restaurant? Do you get anything other than your every whim satisfied whilst sitting in my section? That's right. You get American service, from Carla (meaning even better than necessary service). You always have a full drink (refills free of charge), your food is hot, or cold, or whichever modified way you require it, you get a smile, regular visits, and I even clean up after your little brat that you let empty every single sugar packet! So TIP like an american... Capiche?
Sorry about the rant, but yeah lots of peeps tip 10%, which sucks... however, thanks to the servicemen of my country, wink wink, I average good tips! Gotta love those tables of single guys!
It is so much busier than in the states. Due to a lack of options,(chili's, a crappy burger place, or the Mac-a-tuna) we are regularly on a wait. I also usually have a 5 table section (9 tables last saturday, yikes) and I usually have at least $800 in sales... which when you figure somewhere between ten to twenty percent tips, it works out pretty well.
The cooks here suck. Nothing against my German friends in general, but most of the cooks are German and there's a very different work ethic. They generally do not understand terms such as hurry, rush, on the fly, today, and the like. They figure people will get the food when they feel like making it. However, 40 minutes to make a fettucine alfredo doesn't exactly fit into the American service I described before and this sometimes creates a lot of stress where I'm concerned.
Also on the slow end are the bussers. Oh wait, yes, that's correct we have bussers. And yes I do bus all my own tables. The bussers here are worthless, but I still owe them 3% of my sales at the end of the night. Back home we as servers choose how much we tip out the bussers. This system can hurt the bussers because there are stingy servers; yet, mandating tip out bites because there's no incentive for the bussers to do anything, and it can be anywhere from 20 to 35% of your tips, which bites.
The fellow servers here are definitely different. The majority smoke, got married before age 20, have several children, and look about 18. There's a server who works here with his fiance and girlfriend. The servers cuss in, at, and around tables, and then hit up the strip clubs and brothels after work or drink beer until 6 in the morning. I suppose this isn't too different than most restaurants, but it's interesting to come back to this setting after serving in Provo, Utah for so long. Don't get me wrong, I still work with some great people... just different.
I don't have a car. This kinda sucks. I bike occasionally, but people are also really nice about giving rides to and from work. Everybody carpools here and doesn't seem to make a big deal out of it.
Overall, it's just a job. I enjoy it because I get to do what I'm good at, I stay busy, and I generally make as much money as I want to put effort into it. I don't think I'm necessarily making life long friends, but it's not exactly the bonding scene that Provo Macshack is either. It'll do for now, but I'm looking to get out of the restaurant industry when I get back.... if you know of any positions, ideas, suggestions... let me know!
Don't let go, you got the music in you
As previously devised, I'm breaking my info into seperate posts. Read further if you missed post 1.
Last Month in Review, Post 2: Metz, France
This was a short trip, but a fun first taste of France.
-Capri's worn with stockings to brave the winter cold. Awesome fashion statement. Really. C'mon, you don't want to try it? For heaven's sake, why not?
-Like luxembourg, I appreciate that I can gather bits and pieces with my meager french from all those years in high school.
-We ate at Le Monte Cristo. The waiter didn't speak a lick of english, which actually proved to be rather difficult and our first complete lack of verbal communication in Europe (us Americans always expect to run into english speakers... perhaps because we usually do). However, the waiter was really nice and we employed excellent universal sign language to acquire a delicious meal.
-Cora: the French Wal-Mart. This store is like the highlight for Americans all over Europe. Germans don't believe in convenience and only taking one trip once a week to obtain all your shopping needs. The funniest part to me, is that at least half of the brands are American. (And we wonder why they don't like us... it's really just brand envy)
-Le Patisserie and the chocolate shops are everything you ever imagined. Delicious rows of delectable little morsels waiting to taunt your tastebuds for only 3 euros a bite. Yeah, that's right 3 euros (5 bucks) a bite. So worth it.
Last Month in Review, Post 2: Metz, France
This was a short trip, but a fun first taste of France.
-Capri's worn with stockings to brave the winter cold. Awesome fashion statement. Really. C'mon, you don't want to try it? For heaven's sake, why not?
-Like luxembourg, I appreciate that I can gather bits and pieces with my meager french from all those years in high school.
-We ate at Le Monte Cristo. The waiter didn't speak a lick of english, which actually proved to be rather difficult and our first complete lack of verbal communication in Europe (us Americans always expect to run into english speakers... perhaps because we usually do). However, the waiter was really nice and we employed excellent universal sign language to acquire a delicious meal.
-Cora: the French Wal-Mart. This store is like the highlight for Americans all over Europe. Germans don't believe in convenience and only taking one trip once a week to obtain all your shopping needs. The funniest part to me, is that at least half of the brands are American. (And we wonder why they don't like us... it's really just brand envy)
-Le Patisserie and the chocolate shops are everything you ever imagined. Delicious rows of delectable little morsels waiting to taunt your tastebuds for only 3 euros a bite. Yeah, that's right 3 euros (5 bucks) a bite. So worth it.
We've got the dreamer's disease
Monday, February 22, 2010
Ok, due to a three week absence from blogging I'm going to break my post into 4 segments to make it more digestable and favorable to your palate, a.k.a. nobody reads a post that's too long.
Last Month in Review, Post 1: London
(I'll keep this like the Atlanta review... top ten and tidbits)
1. Broadway Shows! I got to see Les Miserable and The Lion King. Both were amazing! I enjoyed Les Mis more for the music, but The Lion King's set design was breathtaking.
2. Crossiants- the breakfast of choice in London. Yeah, they are good. Especially the chocolate ones. However, I'm not sure I can convert to the crossiant a day diet.
3. My first hostel experience. This was a great experience. The hostel we stayed at was really nice. It's like a dorm room with two bunk beds, lockers for 4 and a small (very small) bathroom. It's clean and just has basic sheets. So you bring your own towel and toiletries. It reminded me a lot of EFY/Youth conference where we stayed in dorms. It would have been perfect; however, I unfortunately was sick my second day in London, and flu like symptoms need to be nursed with a fluffy comforter and basic cable. **Note to self: when getting sick, hostel is one of the least favorable locations**
4. The Underground is easy and the most affordable travel option in London. Also they advertise these magical gnome gummies (two of my loves smooshed into one!), alas I never found these magical gummies though.
5. Portobello Road. (Famously depicted in the movie Notting hill) A market that takes up several miles on the street, there are many different shops as well as street vendors. They sell everything from antiques, jewelry, shoes, food, bikes, paintings, clothing, souvenirs... you name it, they probably sell it.
6. Castle tours are more enjoyable than the actual castle. Or perhaps I am just a sucker for the Beefeater's cliche jokes...
7. London has lots of free museums, which when you're spending as much as you are on everything else, is a pleasant bonus. I loved the Natural History Museum! Definitely worth your time if you're headed to London.
8. Traveling in cold, winter months is a bit of a downer. It's not so bad if you stay well bundled... however, this doesn't make for good pictures. On the bright side, there's a lot less tourists, some activities are cheaper, and you don't have to worry about the sunburn...
9. Overall, London is a more expensive place to visit (think NYC) but it's a lot of fun, and you can definitely adapt the trip to meet your budget. It was fun to have a balance of the regular tourist trap sites as well as other attractions. And Broadway is a must... really what better way to spend an evening?
... Oh are you waiting for No. 10? Right, I suppose I said this was a top ten list... eh, how about just ending with some fav. pictures?
Last Month in Review, Post 1: London
(I'll keep this like the Atlanta review... top ten and tidbits)
1. Broadway Shows! I got to see Les Miserable and The Lion King. Both were amazing! I enjoyed Les Mis more for the music, but The Lion King's set design was breathtaking.
2. Crossiants- the breakfast of choice in London. Yeah, they are good. Especially the chocolate ones. However, I'm not sure I can convert to the crossiant a day diet.
3. My first hostel experience. This was a great experience. The hostel we stayed at was really nice. It's like a dorm room with two bunk beds, lockers for 4 and a small (very small) bathroom. It's clean and just has basic sheets. So you bring your own towel and toiletries. It reminded me a lot of EFY/Youth conference where we stayed in dorms. It would have been perfect; however, I unfortunately was sick my second day in London, and flu like symptoms need to be nursed with a fluffy comforter and basic cable. **Note to self: when getting sick, hostel is one of the least favorable locations**
4. The Underground is easy and the most affordable travel option in London. Also they advertise these magical gnome gummies (two of my loves smooshed into one!), alas I never found these magical gummies though.
5. Portobello Road. (Famously depicted in the movie Notting hill) A market that takes up several miles on the street, there are many different shops as well as street vendors. They sell everything from antiques, jewelry, shoes, food, bikes, paintings, clothing, souvenirs... you name it, they probably sell it.
6. Castle tours are more enjoyable than the actual castle. Or perhaps I am just a sucker for the Beefeater's cliche jokes...
7. London has lots of free museums, which when you're spending as much as you are on everything else, is a pleasant bonus. I loved the Natural History Museum! Definitely worth your time if you're headed to London.
8. Traveling in cold, winter months is a bit of a downer. It's not so bad if you stay well bundled... however, this doesn't make for good pictures. On the bright side, there's a lot less tourists, some activities are cheaper, and you don't have to worry about the sunburn...
9. Overall, London is a more expensive place to visit (think NYC) but it's a lot of fun, and you can definitely adapt the trip to meet your budget. It was fun to have a balance of the regular tourist trap sites as well as other attractions. And Broadway is a must... really what better way to spend an evening?
... Oh are you waiting for No. 10? Right, I suppose I said this was a top ten list... eh, how about just ending with some fav. pictures?
If I were a boy... I think I could understand
Sunday, February 21, 2010
I apologize for my lack of blogging, especially in light of my promises to blog on a regular basis upon moving to Europe... as I have new discoveries worth mentioning daily. However, I find that between e-mailing, facebooking, g-chatting, skyping, and generally explaining things on a regular basis I don't always posess the desire to "journal" my adventures on the blog. However, in an attempt to get me going on documenting the last month, let me just share my most recent discovery... for my outdoor/adventure female readers.
I present to you....
Yes, the freshette. "If you are an active outdoor woman you know what a hassle it can be trying to urinate when restrooms are unsanitary or unavailable. The alternative of having to get halfway undressed can result in exposure to the elements and embarrassment. This is where the Sports & Travel Freshette plays a vital role, Allowing you to urinate while standing, requiring minimal or no undressing!"
For the low price of $23.95, you can relieve yourself standing up!
As much as I find this amusing and somewhat funny, I can't help but think I would have paid 24 bucks to have this while hiking Timp.
Feedback:
a) Brilliant or just weird?
b) Would you use this? In what circumstances?
c) Technicalities... are these devices ever as easy to use as they seem?
I present to you....
Yes, the freshette. "If you are an active outdoor woman you know what a hassle it can be trying to urinate when restrooms are unsanitary or unavailable. The alternative of having to get halfway undressed can result in exposure to the elements and embarrassment. This is where the Sports & Travel Freshette plays a vital role, Allowing you to urinate while standing, requiring minimal or no undressing!"
For the low price of $23.95, you can relieve yourself standing up!
As much as I find this amusing and somewhat funny, I can't help but think I would have paid 24 bucks to have this while hiking Timp.
Feedback:
a) Brilliant or just weird?
b) Would you use this? In what circumstances?
c) Technicalities... are these devices ever as easy to use as they seem?
Darling it's better down where it's wetter
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Just read this on msnbc:
Researchers in Germany found that drinking two 8-ounce glasses of cold water increased their subjects' metabolic rate by 30%, and the effect persisted for 90 minutes.
Fascinating.... So why the crap are you denying me water, Germany?!?!? WHY??????????
Researchers in Germany found that drinking two 8-ounce glasses of cold water increased their subjects' metabolic rate by 30%, and the effect persisted for 90 minutes.
Fascinating.... So why the crap are you denying me water, Germany?!?!? WHY??????????
Well I'm on my, I don't know where I'm going, but I'm on my way
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Some of you might have made fun of me in the past because I frequently proclaim that I'm not sick, because I refuse to get sick. Colds are defiantly warded off by not indulging my runny nose, and mind over matter typically wins.
I, however, am sad to report that I have met my demise whilst chilling in Germany, and I blame the kids. Ha ha, typical I suppose, but seriously I haven't hung around kids in a long time and now I live in the basement apartment of a girl who has two little one's, which we all know are just disease carrying hosts waiting for an unsuspecting college student (post college, whatever) to come their way.
If I was more talented with computers I would post the clip from You've Got Mail where she's home sick and he brings her daisies and she says "my head feels fuzzy." It'd be great and you're blog stalking ways would be satisfied...
Alas, since I lack such skills, I will resort to entertaining you with more of my German discoveries (do not be confused, some of these have no relation to Germany, merely that I am in Germany while happening upon these discoveries).
1. Driving 100 mph on the autobahn is AWESOME! Whoever said speeding doesn't really get you anywhere was wrong. It gets you everywhere, and in a timely manner.
2. Döner equals delicious. See picture.
3. Fake nails are not conducive to winning a competitive game of Nertz. Since my need to win a random pick up game is greater than my need to look good... the likelihood of my ever splurging on fake nails again is slim.
4. Europe is a continent of dehydrated folk. The human body is some 75%ish water... in most of the world. In Europe it's more like 68% beer and 7% water. I recently paid 3 euros (about 5 bucks) for .25mL (about 8 oz) water. This is absurd! Seriously, drinking water is not only a basic human right, but should be complimentary when you're paying 15 to 20 euros for a meal.
From now on, that tacky American seen carrying her own Nalgene bottle into restaurants will be Carla.
5. Germany builds overpasses for animals. They're covered with trees and grass. So animal friendly here...
6. The girls military uniforms seriously need redesigning. I believe I could more than adequately design uniforms that are functional yet not so hideous. In fact I could design uniforms considered flattering, and modest (there's enough sexual harrassment suits as it is). If anyone knows who I should contact about this, let me know. I'm thinking I'll shoot a little e-mail over to Obama with my ideas.
Oh and two funny stories relating to peeps over here:
1. We were at dinner and talking about how people are light/heavy sleepers and one of the girls I'm friends with told a story of how her cat gave birth to kittens on top of her bed while she was sleeping in it. Gross, eh? I'm baffled at how one can sleep through such a strenuous and painful process for any mammal, but then I unfortunately am a light sleeper...
2. The 1 year old girl who lives upstairs is a bit on the chubby side. I was helping her get ready to go out, so i put a shirt on and kept trying to pull the shirt down, but it kept popping up just like the mouse's shirt on cinderella. It was pretty hilarious, and if anyone wants to rub her belly for good luck I'm only charging one euro :)
WELL, that's all for now, heading to France on Wednesday-so stay tuned
I, however, am sad to report that I have met my demise whilst chilling in Germany, and I blame the kids. Ha ha, typical I suppose, but seriously I haven't hung around kids in a long time and now I live in the basement apartment of a girl who has two little one's, which we all know are just disease carrying hosts waiting for an unsuspecting college student (post college, whatever) to come their way.
If I was more talented with computers I would post the clip from You've Got Mail where she's home sick and he brings her daisies and she says "my head feels fuzzy." It'd be great and you're blog stalking ways would be satisfied...
Alas, since I lack such skills, I will resort to entertaining you with more of my German discoveries (do not be confused, some of these have no relation to Germany, merely that I am in Germany while happening upon these discoveries).
1. Driving 100 mph on the autobahn is AWESOME! Whoever said speeding doesn't really get you anywhere was wrong. It gets you everywhere, and in a timely manner.
2. Döner equals delicious. See picture.
3. Fake nails are not conducive to winning a competitive game of Nertz. Since my need to win a random pick up game is greater than my need to look good... the likelihood of my ever splurging on fake nails again is slim.
4. Europe is a continent of dehydrated folk. The human body is some 75%ish water... in most of the world. In Europe it's more like 68% beer and 7% water. I recently paid 3 euros (about 5 bucks) for .25mL (about 8 oz) water. This is absurd! Seriously, drinking water is not only a basic human right, but should be complimentary when you're paying 15 to 20 euros for a meal.
From now on, that tacky American seen carrying her own Nalgene bottle into restaurants will be Carla.
5. Germany builds overpasses for animals. They're covered with trees and grass. So animal friendly here...
6. The girls military uniforms seriously need redesigning. I believe I could more than adequately design uniforms that are functional yet not so hideous. In fact I could design uniforms considered flattering, and modest (there's enough sexual harrassment suits as it is). If anyone knows who I should contact about this, let me know. I'm thinking I'll shoot a little e-mail over to Obama with my ideas.
Oh and two funny stories relating to peeps over here:
1. We were at dinner and talking about how people are light/heavy sleepers and one of the girls I'm friends with told a story of how her cat gave birth to kittens on top of her bed while she was sleeping in it. Gross, eh? I'm baffled at how one can sleep through such a strenuous and painful process for any mammal, but then I unfortunately am a light sleeper...
2. The 1 year old girl who lives upstairs is a bit on the chubby side. I was helping her get ready to go out, so i put a shirt on and kept trying to pull the shirt down, but it kept popping up just like the mouse's shirt on cinderella. It was pretty hilarious, and if anyone wants to rub her belly for good luck I'm only charging one euro :)
WELL, that's all for now, heading to France on Wednesday-so stay tuned
Gotta let me live, gotta let me do for me, gotta let me learn...
Thursday, January 14, 2010
So I did it, I took the leap, despite the doubters out there, and I made it to Germany! Am I crazy, well of course I am. Nobody moves to a country where they don't speak the language without being a little off their rocker, but if thousands of people can move to the states and make it work, I can certainly get by for a few months in Germany.
Here's some of the things I've learned thus far...
1. I like Icelandair...
a) 33 in. of legroom, perfect for my 31 in legs (no, 2 in really doesn't make that much difference, a plane is still uncomfortable when you're on it for 6 hours straight)
b) No ice in the drinks allowing for more beverage
c) Though there's no food, not even peanuts for a 6 hour flight, they do offer free entertainment (free being the key here, most airlines do not maintain this word in their vernacular)
d) Said free entertainment is also edited for language and content. Ha here were some of the funniest replacement phrases
1) Did you bag her?
2) Toe job
3) Son of a brick
-If you find these offensive do not, I repeat do not watch the free entertainment on Iceland air. I however, enjoyed watching Lie to me and Burn notice.
2. Iceland is really dark. At 8 am, it was pitch black and I couldn't see any stars. Hmmm...
3. Cuckoo clocks are annoying. They're chirping is especially annoying in the middle of the night. And this is compounded by the multiple clocks that can be found in german homes.
4. Knudsens sparkling cherry juice is just like cough syrup, smell and everything.
5. Living in Germany is going to be texting detox for me... I can't wait to get back to the states and come back with a vengenance. Expect lots of text messages in about 6 months.
6. This won't really be a break from American life. The exchange rate for the dollar is kind of terrible, so I'll probably stick to American groceries and everything else on base, except when traveling.
Well, every day is a new experience. I hope this all works out for me.
Here's some of the things I've learned thus far...
1. I like Icelandair...
a) 33 in. of legroom, perfect for my 31 in legs (no, 2 in really doesn't make that much difference, a plane is still uncomfortable when you're on it for 6 hours straight)
b) No ice in the drinks allowing for more beverage
c) Though there's no food, not even peanuts for a 6 hour flight, they do offer free entertainment (free being the key here, most airlines do not maintain this word in their vernacular)
d) Said free entertainment is also edited for language and content. Ha here were some of the funniest replacement phrases
1) Did you bag her?
2) Toe job
3) Son of a brick
-If you find these offensive do not, I repeat do not watch the free entertainment on Iceland air. I however, enjoyed watching Lie to me and Burn notice.
2. Iceland is really dark. At 8 am, it was pitch black and I couldn't see any stars. Hmmm...
3. Cuckoo clocks are annoying. They're chirping is especially annoying in the middle of the night. And this is compounded by the multiple clocks that can be found in german homes.
4. Knudsens sparkling cherry juice is just like cough syrup, smell and everything.
5. Living in Germany is going to be texting detox for me... I can't wait to get back to the states and come back with a vengenance. Expect lots of text messages in about 6 months.
6. This won't really be a break from American life. The exchange rate for the dollar is kind of terrible, so I'll probably stick to American groceries and everything else on base, except when traveling.
Well, every day is a new experience. I hope this all works out for me.
Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip
Friday, January 8, 2010
Some ponderings...
So imagine you were stuck on a desert island, and you got to choose one other person to be stuck with you.
Many would choose their boyfriend/girlfriend because they enjoy spending time with them blah blah blah (let's not focus on how selfish it is to choose him/her to be stuck on a desert island, thus ruining his/her future as well).
Ok... it gets a little crazier after this, but stick with me, I'm curious about everyone's opinion.
So, you're on a desert island. Just the two of you. Your options are to get married or to not get married (committing adultery is not an option, we're rolling with the assumption that you are mormon, sorry folks). Now, I realize this wouldn't be a temple marriage, but since you are the only two people on the island you could decide on the law and then lawfully be wed.
So I'm just gonna conclude you choose to get married, because well you chose this person to be stuck with you, and it could be a very long time (or you could die) so you might as well just get married.
So here's my question (finally, right?). Do you just say we're married and that's that, or do you make up some kind of ritual/event/phrase anything to make it feel like you actually did something to pass from singledom to marriage?
I thought there should be something ridiculous such as the gentleman must swim around the island 3 times, followed by blah blah blah...
Items to consider:
1. Is the island the size of the island on Lost? or much smaller?
2. Is there just beach on the island, or do you also have forest?
3. After being on a desert island are you afraid you'll realize you made a poor decision of who to bring?
4. Or are you hoping to be like gilligan's island--who got lost after only a 3 hour tour--pretty much making it highly realistic that you will be found within a week.
So imagine you were stuck on a desert island, and you got to choose one other person to be stuck with you.
Many would choose their boyfriend/girlfriend because they enjoy spending time with them blah blah blah (let's not focus on how selfish it is to choose him/her to be stuck on a desert island, thus ruining his/her future as well).
Ok... it gets a little crazier after this, but stick with me, I'm curious about everyone's opinion.
So, you're on a desert island. Just the two of you. Your options are to get married or to not get married (committing adultery is not an option, we're rolling with the assumption that you are mormon, sorry folks). Now, I realize this wouldn't be a temple marriage, but since you are the only two people on the island you could decide on the law and then lawfully be wed.
So I'm just gonna conclude you choose to get married, because well you chose this person to be stuck with you, and it could be a very long time (or you could die) so you might as well just get married.
So here's my question (finally, right?). Do you just say we're married and that's that, or do you make up some kind of ritual/event/phrase anything to make it feel like you actually did something to pass from singledom to marriage?
I thought there should be something ridiculous such as the gentleman must swim around the island 3 times, followed by blah blah blah...
Items to consider:
1. Is the island the size of the island on Lost? or much smaller?
2. Is there just beach on the island, or do you also have forest?
3. After being on a desert island are you afraid you'll realize you made a poor decision of who to bring?
4. Or are you hoping to be like gilligan's island--who got lost after only a 3 hour tour--pretty much making it highly realistic that you will be found within a week.
I'm thinking over the things that you said
Thursday, January 7, 2010
I've been home for the past two weeks and I've realized that my family might have some small issues with communication.
For those who think I am judgemental and unfairly assessing my family (cause what do I know, when I only come home for Christmas). I say to you, good point. However, here are just two examples from dinner.
Emily: "Yeah my flight leaves at 3 pm and lands at 10 pm."
Mom: "Isn't that amazing that planes are so fast. Although I really liked Mammoth park."
Ummm yes... many faces from Carla... followed by, "I'm sorry, those two sentences are in no way correlated? Am I the only one who is lost?"
(Translation for you: Yes, planes are fast; however, because we drove to Missouri we were able to stop at Mammoth park, which I really enjoyed.)
Now, as though one example ever proved anything. Enter Heather.
Emily: "I really want to learn how to can."
Heather: "Canning requires sugar."
Well, clearly canning requires sugar, so I suppose you would have to hear Heather's tone, but it was said as though sugar was a huge problem. Eventually the missing conversation was explained to me (Emily is on a no sugar diet).
I get what you're thinking... these aren't a big deal Carla. But imagine a whole dinner with sentences missing and soon you're in a puddle of despair wondering what happened to basic english.
May, I also point out that Emily (the english professor) is the common link in these two stories. Just saying...
For those who think I am judgemental and unfairly assessing my family (cause what do I know, when I only come home for Christmas). I say to you, good point. However, here are just two examples from dinner.
Emily: "Yeah my flight leaves at 3 pm and lands at 10 pm."
Mom: "Isn't that amazing that planes are so fast. Although I really liked Mammoth park."
Ummm yes... many faces from Carla... followed by, "I'm sorry, those two sentences are in no way correlated? Am I the only one who is lost?"
(Translation for you: Yes, planes are fast; however, because we drove to Missouri we were able to stop at Mammoth park, which I really enjoyed.)
Now, as though one example ever proved anything. Enter Heather.
Emily: "I really want to learn how to can."
Heather: "Canning requires sugar."
Well, clearly canning requires sugar, so I suppose you would have to hear Heather's tone, but it was said as though sugar was a huge problem. Eventually the missing conversation was explained to me (Emily is on a no sugar diet).
I get what you're thinking... these aren't a big deal Carla. But imagine a whole dinner with sentences missing and soon you're in a puddle of despair wondering what happened to basic english.
May, I also point out that Emily (the english professor) is the common link in these two stories. Just saying...
As long as there is thirst, there's always...
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
The beauty of coming home for more than 3 days at Christmas is the opportunity provided for your family to remember all the ridiculous things you have done throughout your life and bring them back up to declare your stupidity to the world.
Let me share one such instance for your unbridled enjoyment.
As I recall this event occured during either the summer of '98 or '99. At this time in my young adult (yes, I use that loosely) life, my family would take summer vacations to the beach. During these warm, endless, sunny days, my brother and I thought it was much more entertaining to utilize sunscreen for temporary tattoo's as opposed to the intended overall sun protection Waterbabies advocates.
We typically would fashion a batman, superman or large A on my brother's chest in the vain hopes that he would be permanently (a few months) branded. Well, I can't say that any of our attempts actually resulted in anything more than a slight discoloration of his chest.
So when my sister dared me to write a sunscreen tattoo on my leg, I quickly agreed and thought it would be little more than the front of my legs looking a shade lighter than the back.
Of course, as my family is very classy, her inspiration for my less than flattering mark can be traced to a popular ad campaign at the time. Let me refresh your memory...
Yes, I wrote "Make 7" on one leg and "Up Yours" on the other, only to have it become the most successful sunscreen tattoo anyone has ever seen. My bishop found it particularly unnerving that following Sunday to look down from the podium and see an innocent Beehive with her legs crossed and read "Up Yours."
And as though the humiliation of having obscenities tanned into my legs last through the entire winter isn't enough, my family brings these stories up at dinner 10 years later.
Gotta love family.
Let me share one such instance for your unbridled enjoyment.
As I recall this event occured during either the summer of '98 or '99. At this time in my young adult (yes, I use that loosely) life, my family would take summer vacations to the beach. During these warm, endless, sunny days, my brother and I thought it was much more entertaining to utilize sunscreen for temporary tattoo's as opposed to the intended overall sun protection Waterbabies advocates.
We typically would fashion a batman, superman or large A on my brother's chest in the vain hopes that he would be permanently (a few months) branded. Well, I can't say that any of our attempts actually resulted in anything more than a slight discoloration of his chest.
So when my sister dared me to write a sunscreen tattoo on my leg, I quickly agreed and thought it would be little more than the front of my legs looking a shade lighter than the back.
Of course, as my family is very classy, her inspiration for my less than flattering mark can be traced to a popular ad campaign at the time. Let me refresh your memory...
Yes, I wrote "Make 7" on one leg and "Up Yours" on the other, only to have it become the most successful sunscreen tattoo anyone has ever seen. My bishop found it particularly unnerving that following Sunday to look down from the podium and see an innocent Beehive with her legs crossed and read "Up Yours."
And as though the humiliation of having obscenities tanned into my legs last through the entire winter isn't enough, my family brings these stories up at dinner 10 years later.
Gotta love family.
