There really is a lot going on in my life, I swear! A week ago I officially turned the big 2-8! At first thought, this birthday was going to be a let down as I'm miles away from most of my close family and friends. The family that I have in Louisville was ironically in San Francisco. So that left me to wonder what a weekend of festivities after a week in Wisconsin would look like. Needless to say, Mack came to the rescue.
Mack and I had been discussing a weekend in Louisville since I moved given that she is in Columbus, OH and what better weekend to pick than the one of my birthday. She picked me up from the airport on Friday, July 16th and the festivities began. We had dinner and cocktails at a sushi restaurant called Sapporo. After which, we blasted music and got ready like girls should. Finally, we left the house at midnight for Bardstown Road and Molly Malone's. I'm not sure what time we left the bar, but I'm guessing 3:30a as the bars in Louisville don't close until 4a. In theory, this is a great idea. In practicality, Saturday after a late night like that is completely shot, especially when your room has no windows to give any sense of what time it is. We danced Saturday night away at Hotel on 4th Street Live with a handful of my coworkers. An absolutely perfect celebratory weekend!
Sunday, my roommate baked me a brownie cake, complete with Happy Birthday letters and soccer balls. Monday, my coworkers bought a cookie cake for me. The birthday diet while delicious, is never good for the waistline. I finally convinced my roommate to take the brownies to the neighbors.
I received cards and letters from people to whom I don't remember giving my address. Mom sent a care package, which is always exciting and included a pretty necklace. I even received flowers from my special someone who was traveling in Syria at the time. I must admit, I was quite impressed. That special someone also found an internet cafe so that we could Skype for a while - our first time using video since he left 1.5 months ago! (PS Technology is incredibly cool!!)
Thanks to all who made this year special! And I promise to get better about blogging...
Showing posts with label Birthday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Birthday. Show all posts
Monday, July 26, 2010
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Summer Montage
Someone at Clear Admit made a comment that she would have liked to see more pictures of Atlanta. While, I have minimal pictures of Atlanta itself, I do have a plethora of pictures from the summer, so this is my summer in photos!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Our Nation's Capitol
First, I'd like to thank everyone for the birthday emails, comments, texts, phone calls and FB posts! Definitely a great way to feel special!
My final destination during my whirlwind summer travels was Washington, DC (and surrounding area) this past weekend. Even arriving at the airport on Friday afternoon seemed all too familiar. While, I should not complain as my travels are for pleasure and not work, it's still hard to venture out on Friday, only to return on Sunday evening. My body felt taxed.
The condo, in which BVB temporarily resides, is very cute! I met his roommate, who happens to be an '08 from Darden and a consultant. I guess my exchange with him was the longest the two of them had ever conversed though they've shared the condo since mid-May. Funny, but I suppose it's the lifestyle. Friday night I asked to stay in and in doing so met a new TV show, "How I Met Your Mother." I proceeded to beg and plead to watch more episodes and I think I was cut off around five or so. (TV shows on DVD are the way to go!!)
Saturday was my actual birthday and that morning I received homemade French toast with bacon and berries. Though I was not selfish enough to ask for it in bed, it was delicious. We strolled around Arlington in the afternoon and ended up at the Iwo Jima memorial, which has a great view of multiple monuments in DC. Dinner was another home cooked meal and then we kicked off the night with the DC United/Colorado Rapids game. It was a great game and the fans reminded me of FC Barca, however, with far shorter songs that only have the fans knew.
Afterwards, we arrived at Local 16 on U Street shortly after 10:30p, the original meeting time. I'll admit, with no one there, I was a bit worried about the trajectory of the night. Then a learning teammate and husband-to-be showed up, followed by a couple classmates and their friends. A few more ventured in from Arlington and the surprise of the night was my cousin arriving with one of his friends. It’s always great to catch up with people, but sometimes I feel a birthday is not the right time to do so. I mean, everyone wants your attention and the more people you add to the mix, the harder it is to spread yourself around. We finished up the night with a metro ride home as the group on the opposite side of our car sang …something… I had hiccups that disappeared by the time I arrived at the Virginia Square stop. The day and night were perfect and all I wanted.
Sunday was also relaxing with food, video games, and some more “How I Met Your Mother.” Now I have three more weeks of work and then I move back to VA. I can’t believe how close SY is and I’m sure the FYs are getting excited!!
My final destination during my whirlwind summer travels was Washington, DC (and surrounding area) this past weekend. Even arriving at the airport on Friday afternoon seemed all too familiar. While, I should not complain as my travels are for pleasure and not work, it's still hard to venture out on Friday, only to return on Sunday evening. My body felt taxed.
The condo, in which BVB temporarily resides, is very cute! I met his roommate, who happens to be an '08 from Darden and a consultant. I guess my exchange with him was the longest the two of them had ever conversed though they've shared the condo since mid-May. Funny, but I suppose it's the lifestyle. Friday night I asked to stay in and in doing so met a new TV show, "How I Met Your Mother." I proceeded to beg and plead to watch more episodes and I think I was cut off around five or so. (TV shows on DVD are the way to go!!)
Saturday was my actual birthday and that morning I received homemade French toast with bacon and berries. Though I was not selfish enough to ask for it in bed, it was delicious. We strolled around Arlington in the afternoon and ended up at the Iwo Jima memorial, which has a great view of multiple monuments in DC. Dinner was another home cooked meal and then we kicked off the night with the DC United/Colorado Rapids game. It was a great game and the fans reminded me of FC Barca, however, with far shorter songs that only have the fans knew.
Afterwards, we arrived at Local 16 on U Street shortly after 10:30p, the original meeting time. I'll admit, with no one there, I was a bit worried about the trajectory of the night. Then a learning teammate and husband-to-be showed up, followed by a couple classmates and their friends. A few more ventured in from Arlington and the surprise of the night was my cousin arriving with one of his friends. It’s always great to catch up with people, but sometimes I feel a birthday is not the right time to do so. I mean, everyone wants your attention and the more people you add to the mix, the harder it is to spread yourself around. We finished up the night with a metro ride home as the group on the opposite side of our car sang …something… I had hiccups that disappeared by the time I arrived at the Virginia Square stop. The day and night were perfect and all I wanted.
Sunday was also relaxing with food, video games, and some more “How I Met Your Mother.” Now I have three more weeks of work and then I move back to VA. I can’t believe how close SY is and I’m sure the FYs are getting excited!!
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Mirror Before Me
Do you ever look in the mirror and think, so this is it? It's the day before my 27th birthday and I'm honestly not sure what to think. Half my friends are married, a few are pregnant, and then a couple more already have kids! WHOA! Some are on a career path and others are likely still "finding themselves." And here I am ready to finish my internship in 3 weeks and return to my fake adolescent life called business school. Of course, I have some important decisions on the horizon. Where do I want to live? What do I want to do? For which company do I want to work? AH!? It all happened so fast.
It's crazy to think at this time last year I was finishing up my week of Bay Area goodbyes. I remember the craziness of going out every night in an attempt to see everyone that was important to me or had influenced my life in some way. I always thought I'd move back there immediately after business school, at least until I actually moved to Virginia. Getting out again (the first time being college), opened my eyes to another world. I love the Bay Area and in my opinion it is still one of the best places to live, but why not try other places while I'm young.
Then I think, so exactly how young am I? A good friend, who I admire because she does have the guts to move on a whim, picked up and moved to Texas last week! Though she's nowhere near where I would call desirable, I still think her view of the world can be refreshing. Mind you, this is the same friend who returned from living in St. Thomas within the last 2 years. I am not sure I’d ever have the fortitude.
Work is going well, but after an early morning field trip to a call center (which was more interesting than it sounds) and a bit of a fuzzy head (which I fear is the last 3 travel weekends catching up with me), I can't seem to focus today. It's interesting being back on the learning curve and while at times it's fun, I do miss the feeling of knowing it. I used to have days at my previous employer where I just knew everything going on and I felt like I was on top of the world. This business is very different than that one with more integrated parts than I think I ever imagined.
As I think of all these aspects of my life, I wonder what or who I will see in the mirror next year.
It's crazy to think at this time last year I was finishing up my week of Bay Area goodbyes. I remember the craziness of going out every night in an attempt to see everyone that was important to me or had influenced my life in some way. I always thought I'd move back there immediately after business school, at least until I actually moved to Virginia. Getting out again (the first time being college), opened my eyes to another world. I love the Bay Area and in my opinion it is still one of the best places to live, but why not try other places while I'm young.
Then I think, so exactly how young am I? A good friend, who I admire because she does have the guts to move on a whim, picked up and moved to Texas last week! Though she's nowhere near where I would call desirable, I still think her view of the world can be refreshing. Mind you, this is the same friend who returned from living in St. Thomas within the last 2 years. I am not sure I’d ever have the fortitude.
Work is going well, but after an early morning field trip to a call center (which was more interesting than it sounds) and a bit of a fuzzy head (which I fear is the last 3 travel weekends catching up with me), I can't seem to focus today. It's interesting being back on the learning curve and while at times it's fun, I do miss the feeling of knowing it. I used to have days at my previous employer where I just knew everything going on and I felt like I was on top of the world. This business is very different than that one with more integrated parts than I think I ever imagined.
As I think of all these aspects of my life, I wonder what or who I will see in the mirror next year.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Vegas Vacation!
The weekend didn't quite look like Chevy Chase's, but it was still fun and VERY short. Before business school, I used to jet-set on the weekends. I'm not sure if it was because I only worked until 3p in the afternoon or because I felt the money that I didn't have to pay on rent burning a hole in my pocket. (Thanks Mom and Dad for letting me live at home!!) Regardless, I often traveled to Colorado (my alma mater), Vegas (to dance) and various destinations on the west coast. I once went to Houston, which was a blur. I never went further east than Houston for a two-day weekend and after this Vegas trip, I remembered why!
My flight on Friday night didn't leave Atlanta until 9:15p, but thankfully for the time change, I landed in Sin City at 10:33p. Not too shabby for a 4 hour flight! I intended on taking a long nap. However, I purchased the book, Never Eat Alone, and spent a solid hour reading it before watching the in-flight film. So far, the book is fascinating; I'll give an update later. My boyfriend arrived 10 minutes before I did, so met and took a cab to Encore. I've stayed at the Wynn, but had yet to visit Encore. We dropped our bags and headed for my parents suite at the Wynn Towers. They had a nice one bedroom suite with a living room and half-bath. They had stocked the bar and before we knew it, room service was on the way and drinks were in hand. The group for this trip was quite random. From my brother and his girlfriend to my parents' friends and their kids, whom we'd never met. There were approximately 18 of us, though it was rare for everyone to be in the same place at once. Drinks flowed in my parents’ suite and the adults left until just my parents remained. We headed for bed as our bodies didn't quite know what to make of the time change as it felt like 4a and the clock read 1a.
Saturday morning the phone rang at 9a, our wake-up call to get ready for a day at the outlets. I got a couple cute items, but truth is, I don't need anything. And lately, I stare at my closet contemplating what I should leave with Goodwill on my way out of town - not because clothes don't fit though, simply because I don't wear certain articles (and haven't for years, even after I try them on multiple times). Saturday night was dinner at Capital Grille - a pre-birthday celebration for me. However, we did recognize the many other July babies in the room. After dinner, four of us headed to XS, the hottest club in Vegas, which just happened to be at Encore. Vegas, more so than other places, it pays to know people. I have no idea how long the line would have taken to get in and I didn't want to find out. A good friend from home knows a DJ at XS, who indeed is now one of my new friends. :)
The night included a good mixture of dancing, people watching, drinking and taking in all that is decadent about the club. I give it two big thumbs up and hope to return soon! Sunday was a travel day and now I'm home! Monday I was exhausted. I drank TWO cups of Green Tea, often a sign of my exhaustion, and continued to feel two steps behind, yet still managed to work until 7:30p. One more weekend away (DC to visit my man and celebrate my actual birthday), two here and then I move to C'ville. Where did summer go??
My flight on Friday night didn't leave Atlanta until 9:15p, but thankfully for the time change, I landed in Sin City at 10:33p. Not too shabby for a 4 hour flight! I intended on taking a long nap. However, I purchased the book, Never Eat Alone, and spent a solid hour reading it before watching the in-flight film. So far, the book is fascinating; I'll give an update later. My boyfriend arrived 10 minutes before I did, so met and took a cab to Encore. I've stayed at the Wynn, but had yet to visit Encore. We dropped our bags and headed for my parents suite at the Wynn Towers. They had a nice one bedroom suite with a living room and half-bath. They had stocked the bar and before we knew it, room service was on the way and drinks were in hand. The group for this trip was quite random. From my brother and his girlfriend to my parents' friends and their kids, whom we'd never met. There were approximately 18 of us, though it was rare for everyone to be in the same place at once. Drinks flowed in my parents’ suite and the adults left until just my parents remained. We headed for bed as our bodies didn't quite know what to make of the time change as it felt like 4a and the clock read 1a.
Saturday morning the phone rang at 9a, our wake-up call to get ready for a day at the outlets. I got a couple cute items, but truth is, I don't need anything. And lately, I stare at my closet contemplating what I should leave with Goodwill on my way out of town - not because clothes don't fit though, simply because I don't wear certain articles (and haven't for years, even after I try them on multiple times). Saturday night was dinner at Capital Grille - a pre-birthday celebration for me. However, we did recognize the many other July babies in the room. After dinner, four of us headed to XS, the hottest club in Vegas, which just happened to be at Encore. Vegas, more so than other places, it pays to know people. I have no idea how long the line would have taken to get in and I didn't want to find out. A good friend from home knows a DJ at XS, who indeed is now one of my new friends. :)
The night included a good mixture of dancing, people watching, drinking and taking in all that is decadent about the club. I give it two big thumbs up and hope to return soon! Sunday was a travel day and now I'm home! Monday I was exhausted. I drank TWO cups of Green Tea, often a sign of my exhaustion, and continued to feel two steps behind, yet still managed to work until 7:30p. One more weekend away (DC to visit my man and celebrate my actual birthday), two here and then I move to C'ville. Where did summer go??
Thursday, December 11, 2008
T.K.O.
I am one 5 hour exam away from FREEDOM! I can hardly contain myself! Do you remember when I said in Q1 that I wish all the exams were in one week? I retract that statement. This has been HELL! It isn't that the exams are overly hard, although I have had a few WTF moments, but spending 5 hours a day, every day, on a different test is taxing. Of course, it doesn't help that on the horizon is a couple well deserved weeks off. Granted, I complain now, but the scary part is, I am 5 hours away from finishing 25% of my business school tenure. WOW!
Truth is, all I want is to be able to sleep in tomorrow. It's been raining cats and dogs all day and over the last few days, it's been cloudy. That just screams lay on the couch and drink cocoa! Maybe Saturday before I head to DC. On that note, I'm going to crawl in bed and watch a flick on the computer before we go celebrate ECC's birthday with dinner!
Truth is, all I want is to be able to sleep in tomorrow. It's been raining cats and dogs all day and over the last few days, it's been cloudy. That just screams lay on the couch and drink cocoa! Maybe Saturday before I head to DC. On that note, I'm going to crawl in bed and watch a flick on the computer before we go celebrate ECC's birthday with dinner!
Monday, December 08, 2008
4 More Finals and then a "Break"
About halfway through today I realized it's Monday. I suppose on some level I probably knew it subconsciously, but I was more focused on my GEM final than the day this morning. Five contiguous hours later and my final was done! WOO HOO, one down. I have another 4 finals to complete and feel less of a sense of urgency than I should. At this point, I just want it to be Friday at 3pm, the last possible moment finals are due. Next week is Week on Wall Street, which will be both fun and work, but the week after, I'm headed home for the first time since Labor Day. Needless to say, I'm excited.
One of my best friends had her birthday on December 1st and I was not around to celebrate, nor was I around to plan some giant night out, for which I'm known. Come Friday afternoon, there were still no plans for her birthday and she adamantly told me that she was not celebrating this year. Being the lover of birthdays that I am, I couldn't possibly let her get away with that, so with a few key strokes, I put a rally call out to my friends at home to drag her out of her house on one night over the weekend for a celebration. Since Friday is practically a blur after a 5 hour exam, I forgot to ask, but instead go a nice thank you for putting together the festivities. It seems even across the country, I can still put together one hell of a night. It makes me happy that I have the pull, however, I'm also saddened that I wasn't there to celebrate. Maybe in 2011.
One of my best friends had her birthday on December 1st and I was not around to celebrate, nor was I around to plan some giant night out, for which I'm known. Come Friday afternoon, there were still no plans for her birthday and she adamantly told me that she was not celebrating this year. Being the lover of birthdays that I am, I couldn't possibly let her get away with that, so with a few key strokes, I put a rally call out to my friends at home to drag her out of her house on one night over the weekend for a celebration. Since Friday is practically a blur after a 5 hour exam, I forgot to ask, but instead go a nice thank you for putting together the festivities. It seems even across the country, I can still put together one hell of a night. It makes me happy that I have the pull, however, I'm also saddened that I wasn't there to celebrate. Maybe in 2011.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
A Tribute
It's not quite Michigan Blue, but seeing today is the end all for R1 Michigan applicants I thought it was appropriate. Today is the 50th Birthday of the SMURFS! :) Thanks to a dear friend who somehow between email fights and a backed up pipeline, still managed to email me this.
I'll admit I smiled a little when I heard it was their birthday! :D
Congrats to all the admits today!
I'll admit I smiled a little when I heard it was their birthday! :D
Congrats to all the admits today!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Surprise!
It's Sunday and I'll admit, I'm tired. The weekend was definitely a winner. I hung out low key on Friday night. I'll admit I didn't know what to do with myself on Saturday considering I had no books to read and nothing to study. I tried to clean up a bit, but ended up spending my day importing music. Crystal had told me I had to be ready at 8:15 pm to go out. I couldn't figure out where we were going that early especially seeing it didn't include dinner, but I wasn't about to argue.
Drea picked me up at 8:30 pm. We went to Crystal's and I'll admit, I knew something was a bit fishy when we needed to park. We never park at Crystal's. Anyhow, I walked in to some great friends surprising me for a fun night out. (Thanks Crystal, Andrea, Jay, Mark, Lamar, Jimmy, Jordan, Mike and Pasha!) I was told there were 2 more surprises! And then they forced alcohol on me... (ok, maybe I willingly drank it)
I had told everyone months ago that we weren't celebrating my birthday. Turns out no one listened. I told them we could celebrate my GMAT score. :D
After a bunch of phone calls back and forth, my next surprise walked in. My friend Michelle flew out for the night from Colorado. She walked in and I didn't know what to say. I was about to ask "what are you doing here?", but I stopped myself. That was simply a very silly question. In the beginning I was definitely very quiet. I didn't know how to react to everything. I'm not normally the follower.
The third surprise was a navigator stretch limo! Unfortunately the limo didn't get any radio stations, so we spent half our trip to SF trying to find music. The other half was drinking champagne and making toasts.
We stopped by Rouge for a cocktail, which is where Ahna met us. After that, we traversed the city to Roe. We manged to get a CD from the driver so that we weren't listening to static. Unfortunately it had to be a sex remix of sorts. All songs, but the last two were definitely to set the mood. After 10 minutes at Roe, we decided that Roe wasn't going to happen. Both the VIP line as well as the pay line were around the block. We diligently tried to get someone to give us a burned CD, but to no avail.
Medjool in the Mission was our last stop. I had been there once, but spent the majority of my time on the rooftop deck. I was sad to find that they actually played good dance music in the main room, so this time around, I was all about the dance floor. Our journey to Medjool was just as entertaining as all the others. I was very close to getting us a CD, but the light turned green and the guy was turning, bummer!
Overall, it was a great night and I have great friends!!!
Drea picked me up at 8:30 pm. We went to Crystal's and I'll admit, I knew something was a bit fishy when we needed to park. We never park at Crystal's. Anyhow, I walked in to some great friends surprising me for a fun night out. (Thanks Crystal, Andrea, Jay, Mark, Lamar, Jimmy, Jordan, Mike and Pasha!) I was told there were 2 more surprises! And then they forced alcohol on me... (ok, maybe I willingly drank it)
I had told everyone months ago that we weren't celebrating my birthday. Turns out no one listened. I told them we could celebrate my GMAT score. :D
After a bunch of phone calls back and forth, my next surprise walked in. My friend Michelle flew out for the night from Colorado. She walked in and I didn't know what to say. I was about to ask "what are you doing here?", but I stopped myself. That was simply a very silly question. In the beginning I was definitely very quiet. I didn't know how to react to everything. I'm not normally the follower.
The third surprise was a navigator stretch limo! Unfortunately the limo didn't get any radio stations, so we spent half our trip to SF trying to find music. The other half was drinking champagne and making toasts.
We stopped by Rouge for a cocktail, which is where Ahna met us. After that, we traversed the city to Roe. We manged to get a CD from the driver so that we weren't listening to static. Unfortunately it had to be a sex remix of sorts. All songs, but the last two were definitely to set the mood. After 10 minutes at Roe, we decided that Roe wasn't going to happen. Both the VIP line as well as the pay line were around the block. We diligently tried to get someone to give us a burned CD, but to no avail.
Medjool in the Mission was our last stop. I had been there once, but spent the majority of my time on the rooftop deck. I was sad to find that they actually played good dance music in the main room, so this time around, I was all about the dance floor. Our journey to Medjool was just as entertaining as all the others. I was very close to getting us a CD, but the light turned green and the guy was turning, bummer!
Overall, it was a great night and I have great friends!!!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
The Birthday
I feel loved. I really do with all the calls, texts, and comments. It's nice to have so many people that care about you. However, it all seems to weigh on me. I want this day to be over and to move on. I have no plans with anyone except myself. That seems to be a trend over the years for my actual birthday (excluding the days that surround it). The tears well up as has been the case for the better part of the last decade. I can never seem to shake them. Sometimes this seems to be the loneliest day of the year.
It's hard to believe I've made it to 25. I was asked yesterday if I'd be interested in coaching an AYSO team of 7 year olds. Honestly, I have no idea what I'd teach them. I've learned that although I'm a decent player, my soccer coaching skills are limited. I need to take a little more time to think about it. It's still funny to be that I could actually coach 7 year olds.
The GMAT is done! I still can't believe I finished and with flying colors. WOW! It's surreal. I started requesting information from various schools yesterday. I also went to the bookstore and looked at a book consisting of the best 282 business schools. I returned home to purchase the book off Amazon. Although you neglect the instant gratification, it's much cheaper than buying it in the store. I have gone from a limited number of schools to a wide range. Now I have to answer the daunting questions and figure out where I'm going to apply.
My boss has given me permission to take off when the market closes at 1 pm. I'm super excited. The day has been moving slowly and I'm just not in the mood to be here. I have no idea what I'm going to do with myself, but I thought about walking along the shore. It's not sunny like it's been, but I am interested in listening to the waves crash. We'll see. Another option was to return a few things. I have jeans sitting on the floor of my room. There again, I'm not quite sure if I have the desire to go to the city. I should go to the gym and work out my ankles, yet, I'm just not feeling it. My mood seems to be dictating all my decisions. Maybe I'll just go home and take a nap. Of course that could postpone sleep tonight. Again, I just want this day to be over.
It's hard to believe I've made it to 25. I was asked yesterday if I'd be interested in coaching an AYSO team of 7 year olds. Honestly, I have no idea what I'd teach them. I've learned that although I'm a decent player, my soccer coaching skills are limited. I need to take a little more time to think about it. It's still funny to be that I could actually coach 7 year olds.
The GMAT is done! I still can't believe I finished and with flying colors. WOW! It's surreal. I started requesting information from various schools yesterday. I also went to the bookstore and looked at a book consisting of the best 282 business schools. I returned home to purchase the book off Amazon. Although you neglect the instant gratification, it's much cheaper than buying it in the store. I have gone from a limited number of schools to a wide range. Now I have to answer the daunting questions and figure out where I'm going to apply.
My boss has given me permission to take off when the market closes at 1 pm. I'm super excited. The day has been moving slowly and I'm just not in the mood to be here. I have no idea what I'm going to do with myself, but I thought about walking along the shore. It's not sunny like it's been, but I am interested in listening to the waves crash. We'll see. Another option was to return a few things. I have jeans sitting on the floor of my room. There again, I'm not quite sure if I have the desire to go to the city. I should go to the gym and work out my ankles, yet, I'm just not feeling it. My mood seems to be dictating all my decisions. Maybe I'll just go home and take a nap. Of course that could postpone sleep tonight. Again, I just want this day to be over.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Reality
It hit me this morning. The alarm clock rang and I realized exactly how tired I was. Another late night met by an early morning. Once again, I fell asleep next to my books. "I can't believe it's Thursday", was my first thought as I pulled myself out of bed. My test is Monday. Where did the time go?
In some ways, I'm ready to finish. The next step in my life should prove to be quite exciting. In others, I'm not sure what to expect. Some of the questions come easily whereas others I get stuck. When asked what I want to do with an MBA, I'm often torn. In some ways, I'm just looking for a new direction and a little more education. At the same time, I'm not sure what my ultimate goal is. I hope to solidify that by the time I apply to schools.
Next up on the agenda is my birthday. As I've consistently said for the last 3 mos, I'm not celebrating it. Nothing has changed with that and due to various commitments, it seems like that is going to stand. In some ways it's a bit sad because I'm typically excited about birthdays, but I have other things that need to be taken care of more than a celebration. One of those is catching up on sleep.
In some ways, I'm ready to finish. The next step in my life should prove to be quite exciting. In others, I'm not sure what to expect. Some of the questions come easily whereas others I get stuck. When asked what I want to do with an MBA, I'm often torn. In some ways, I'm just looking for a new direction and a little more education. At the same time, I'm not sure what my ultimate goal is. I hope to solidify that by the time I apply to schools.
Next up on the agenda is my birthday. As I've consistently said for the last 3 mos, I'm not celebrating it. Nothing has changed with that and due to various commitments, it seems like that is going to stand. In some ways it's a bit sad because I'm typically excited about birthdays, but I have other things that need to be taken care of more than a celebration. One of those is catching up on sleep.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Quarter Century
It's a bit strange when I tell someone that I've been playing soccer for almost 20 years. I'm not sure I ever thought that I would be doing anything for 20 years. In 20 days, I will be 25 years old. I'm a college graduate, I have a good job, an active life, and great friends. I'm doing pretty well. In the next few weeks I will embark upon a test that may change my future. I'm not saying the test itself will make or break me, but a surprising score to the positive could open up many opportunities.
This time last year I had a countdown running. It wasn't a countdown to the GMAT, but one to an annual trip that I grew so very fond. VEGAS. Four years running, we took an annual trip to Vegas. Each year, more girls attended and less guys. It was about being with my close girlfriends to celebrate a holiday that I find very special for each individual. This year though, I canceled the trip. It wasn't something I did yesterday, but something I put lots of thought into. It just wasn't me this year. I would hate to say I've grown out of Vegas or even more that I've grown out of birthdays. But something was off. Luckily, I'm still happy with my decision.
I will admit that when I glance through pictures, and browse through old blogs, it touches me. There was a time when celebrating birthdays and throwing the biggest bashes was me. Somehow, I've lost that. I suppose I have lost the innocence of it. Nowadays I just hope that the day will pass like any other. Perhaps a few good birthday wishes from close friends to remind me what day it is. However, I just long to have no tears and a good night rest. I'm not "celebrating" my birthday this year.
This time last year I had a countdown running. It wasn't a countdown to the GMAT, but one to an annual trip that I grew so very fond. VEGAS. Four years running, we took an annual trip to Vegas. Each year, more girls attended and less guys. It was about being with my close girlfriends to celebrate a holiday that I find very special for each individual. This year though, I canceled the trip. It wasn't something I did yesterday, but something I put lots of thought into. It just wasn't me this year. I would hate to say I've grown out of Vegas or even more that I've grown out of birthdays. But something was off. Luckily, I'm still happy with my decision.
I will admit that when I glance through pictures, and browse through old blogs, it touches me. There was a time when celebrating birthdays and throwing the biggest bashes was me. Somehow, I've lost that. I suppose I have lost the innocence of it. Nowadays I just hope that the day will pass like any other. Perhaps a few good birthday wishes from close friends to remind me what day it is. However, I just long to have no tears and a good night rest. I'm not "celebrating" my birthday this year.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Vegas 2006
Lots of pictures, may take some time to load...
Friday July 14, 2006 started off with the thought of alcohol, 115 degree heat, pretty blue pools, and short tight skimpy outfits. I am talking about VEGAS! I had 4 hours of work to get through before I was released for what would be the best Vegas Birthday weekend yet!! Of course with myspace down, those 4 hours didn't fly like I had planned. I have planned this trip 4 times, and I think as time goes on, I get better. I start 4 mos before giving people time to figure out their plans and save some money. Although now, you just know the next trip is a year away. We had room for 16, but ended up with 11 on Friday night and 10 on Saturday night. Crystal came for one night due to family commitments the next.
Crystal, Lindsey, and Jackie arrived first @ 9 am. They were drunk by the pool by 10 am. I got the crazy phone calls and sure enough the pool bartender had cut Lindsey and Jackie off by 2 pm. LMAO By that point Brandi and Susan had met up with them. My flight got in at 3 pm. I crashed on the plane for a short siesta and before I knew it, mom, dad, Poopsie and I were off to Hertz. Check in took a while, but somehow we managed all 3 rooms on the same floor. If you have never been to the Wynn Las Vegas, it is GORGEOUS!!! The rooms are very spacious and the beds are quite cozy. After two unanswered calls, the girls found the lot of us in the lobby. We divided rooms and keys and a small group of us headed to Albertson's to stock up for the weekend. I think we were all hungry because we definitely got a bunch of munchies. 4 bottles of alcohol along with some mixers and we were set to pre-party for the weekend. The drunks had passed out for naptime, so we met Michelle and Christine in the lobby on the way back from the store. Jessica was on her way over to the hotel as well. And I finally heard that Ahna was getting off of work soon. 3 of us went down to return my mom's key and say hi to the fam at their dinner! Sure enough we walk up to my uncle describing these girls getting cut off at the bar in front of them, I think we know who they were. What are the chances?!?! The girls decided on the food court across the way for dinner. It is easier to divide a bill if everyone is paying for their own food. :o) Michelle was the last to get in, but took an earlier flight because she got off work early. It worked out perfectly. Now it was time to get ready for the night! Pre-drinks were taken from my room and everyone was looking for their slutty outfits.
We kicked off the weekend with Jet Nightclub on Friday night. I had made arrangements with a manager to get right in. Took us all of 5 min to drop the name, get free passes, and walk past the line to the front. That was easy! I was buzzed most of the night, a shot and half later with Jackie and I'll admit, things are a bit hazy and I was CAMERA HAPPY!!! Breakfast was back at the hotel @ 5 am - 6 of us left, not too shabby! Although 3 of the girls had run off with the boys they got their free alcohol from (sorry guys, that's what you were good for).
By the time I woke, half the girls had been at the pool for 2 hours. We got a Cabana, 117, poolside! We basically hung by the pool all afternoon, people slowly left to take naps to get their bodies functioning properly. A group of the girls went over to the European Topless pool. They say it was quite invigorating. But with my parents, uncle, grandma, and aunt walking around, I wasn't about to take the chance. They are damn lucky my dad and uncle didn't see them on their way over to the pool.
Dinner was at Capital Grille @ 6:15 pm. Talk about DIVINE! We showed up to individual rounds until they switched to tables to one long one. The laughs were so good I think I definitely started to cry. The speeches started with Jessica, Poopsie, Mom and finished with Uncle Brooks. Mom's final words were "here's to sex" although I am sure there were more to the speeches then that. My uncle stood up on his chair and did a little booty shake. He said he learned that from the porn stars at the pool. With that in mind, the family started talking about the Adult Entertainment convention and told Hardy he had to forewarn them when that was exactly because they are going back! Dinner took 3 hours, but was well worth it. :o)
Saturday night we spent at Tryst Nightclub inside the Wynn. We had 25 min to get ready after dinner and open presents. We walked straight to the front to get our table. They put us in the supreme VIP section with our own security guard. My g-ma, mom, and Aunt joined us for a drink as well. After a little difficulty with the bottles, we finally got everything settled and started the boozing. Michelle H. made friends with the guys next to us. Although that didn't last long because her and I ran off to the stripper pole to do some dancing. People were back and forth and everywhere. It was an awesome time! Couple people stumbled out drunk at 3:30 am. There was a group of us that stayed til 4:45 am when the shitty music wouldn't change. After party was moved to my hotel room. Michelle, Susan, Ahna, Jackie, Hardy, Hardy's roomie, 2 of Ahna's friends and I returned to the room. We had an iPod set with fun Vegas music. People immediately took over the bed's and somehow we went from 2 people crashed in my room to 5 (plus the 2 of us that were awake). Michelle was adamant that she wanted Pizza, so we called room service. Everyone was out but two people, although Jackie came in and out of consciousness with some great comments. We woke everyone up for at least a slice, except Michelle wouldn't budge.
Hours later 7:30 am rolls around and I decide it is time for bed. I kicked Susan and Michelle out of the bed so that I could get some zzz's. Michelle walked into the bathroom, but somehow returned without a shirt on. I handed her a towel, her purse and she went to her room. The next morning, she didn't remember any of it! I kicked Jackie out at 9 am, so she could make her flight. I was woken up by food goers at 11:30 am. The lack of sleep was a bit rough. We bummed around a bit then went to the room to pack. Packing took longer than I thought and somehow our luck panned out that everything from packing to check out to arriving at the airport went smoothly. Michelle and I finished up with a milkshake, onion rings, and cheese fries at the airport. We SURVIVED!
Quotes: "If I could, I'd fuck Vegas every night of the week" Michelle H. Vegas Virgin
"..here's to sex" Mom's Birthday Speech
"I have a menu in my crotch and I drooled on Ahna" - Jackie
"I don't care what you say about me, I love you all! You're all invited to my funeral" - Poopsie
Which one do you want as a new wife?? "I want all of them!" Can you afford that? "If I get rid of your Aunt Marilyn, then YES!" Uncle Brooks
Thanks Girls for an AWESOME trip!!!
Back Row: Michelle M., Jackie, and Christine
Middle Row: Susan, Brandi, Paige, Lindsey, Michelle H., and Ahna
In Front: Hardy
Friday July 14, 2006 started off with the thought of alcohol, 115 degree heat, pretty blue pools, and short tight skimpy outfits. I am talking about VEGAS! I had 4 hours of work to get through before I was released for what would be the best Vegas Birthday weekend yet!! Of course with myspace down, those 4 hours didn't fly like I had planned. I have planned this trip 4 times, and I think as time goes on, I get better. I start 4 mos before giving people time to figure out their plans and save some money. Although now, you just know the next trip is a year away. We had room for 16, but ended up with 11 on Friday night and 10 on Saturday night. Crystal came for one night due to family commitments the next.
Crystal, Lindsey, and Jackie arrived first @ 9 am. They were drunk by the pool by 10 am. I got the crazy phone calls and sure enough the pool bartender had cut Lindsey and Jackie off by 2 pm. LMAO By that point Brandi and Susan had met up with them. My flight got in at 3 pm. I crashed on the plane for a short siesta and before I knew it, mom, dad, Poopsie and I were off to Hertz. Check in took a while, but somehow we managed all 3 rooms on the same floor. If you have never been to the Wynn Las Vegas, it is GORGEOUS!!! The rooms are very spacious and the beds are quite cozy. After two unanswered calls, the girls found the lot of us in the lobby. We divided rooms and keys and a small group of us headed to Albertson's to stock up for the weekend. I think we were all hungry because we definitely got a bunch of munchies. 4 bottles of alcohol along with some mixers and we were set to pre-party for the weekend. The drunks had passed out for naptime, so we met Michelle and Christine in the lobby on the way back from the store. Jessica was on her way over to the hotel as well. And I finally heard that Ahna was getting off of work soon. 3 of us went down to return my mom's key and say hi to the fam at their dinner! Sure enough we walk up to my uncle describing these girls getting cut off at the bar in front of them, I think we know who they were. What are the chances?!?! The girls decided on the food court across the way for dinner. It is easier to divide a bill if everyone is paying for their own food. :o) Michelle was the last to get in, but took an earlier flight because she got off work early. It worked out perfectly. Now it was time to get ready for the night! Pre-drinks were taken from my room and everyone was looking for their slutty outfits.
We kicked off the weekend with Jet Nightclub on Friday night. I had made arrangements with a manager to get right in. Took us all of 5 min to drop the name, get free passes, and walk past the line to the front. That was easy! I was buzzed most of the night, a shot and half later with Jackie and I'll admit, things are a bit hazy and I was CAMERA HAPPY!!! Breakfast was back at the hotel @ 5 am - 6 of us left, not too shabby! Although 3 of the girls had run off with the boys they got their free alcohol from (sorry guys, that's what you were good for).
By the time I woke, half the girls had been at the pool for 2 hours. We got a Cabana, 117, poolside! We basically hung by the pool all afternoon, people slowly left to take naps to get their bodies functioning properly. A group of the girls went over to the European Topless pool. They say it was quite invigorating. But with my parents, uncle, grandma, and aunt walking around, I wasn't about to take the chance. They are damn lucky my dad and uncle didn't see them on their way over to the pool.
Dinner was at Capital Grille @ 6:15 pm. Talk about DIVINE! We showed up to individual rounds until they switched to tables to one long one. The laughs were so good I think I definitely started to cry. The speeches started with Jessica, Poopsie, Mom and finished with Uncle Brooks. Mom's final words were "here's to sex" although I am sure there were more to the speeches then that. My uncle stood up on his chair and did a little booty shake. He said he learned that from the porn stars at the pool. With that in mind, the family started talking about the Adult Entertainment convention and told Hardy he had to forewarn them when that was exactly because they are going back! Dinner took 3 hours, but was well worth it. :o)
Saturday night we spent at Tryst Nightclub inside the Wynn. We had 25 min to get ready after dinner and open presents. We walked straight to the front to get our table. They put us in the supreme VIP section with our own security guard. My g-ma, mom, and Aunt joined us for a drink as well. After a little difficulty with the bottles, we finally got everything settled and started the boozing. Michelle H. made friends with the guys next to us. Although that didn't last long because her and I ran off to the stripper pole to do some dancing. People were back and forth and everywhere. It was an awesome time! Couple people stumbled out drunk at 3:30 am. There was a group of us that stayed til 4:45 am when the shitty music wouldn't change. After party was moved to my hotel room. Michelle, Susan, Ahna, Jackie, Hardy, Hardy's roomie, 2 of Ahna's friends and I returned to the room. We had an iPod set with fun Vegas music. People immediately took over the bed's and somehow we went from 2 people crashed in my room to 5 (plus the 2 of us that were awake). Michelle was adamant that she wanted Pizza, so we called room service. Everyone was out but two people, although Jackie came in and out of consciousness with some great comments. We woke everyone up for at least a slice, except Michelle wouldn't budge.
Hours later 7:30 am rolls around and I decide it is time for bed. I kicked Susan and Michelle out of the bed so that I could get some zzz's. Michelle walked into the bathroom, but somehow returned without a shirt on. I handed her a towel, her purse and she went to her room. The next morning, she didn't remember any of it! I kicked Jackie out at 9 am, so she could make her flight. I was woken up by food goers at 11:30 am. The lack of sleep was a bit rough. We bummed around a bit then went to the room to pack. Packing took longer than I thought and somehow our luck panned out that everything from packing to check out to arriving at the airport went smoothly. Michelle and I finished up with a milkshake, onion rings, and cheese fries at the airport. We SURVIVED!
Quotes: "If I could, I'd fuck Vegas every night of the week" Michelle H. Vegas Virgin
"..here's to sex" Mom's Birthday Speech
"I have a menu in my crotch and I drooled on Ahna" - Jackie
"I don't care what you say about me, I love you all! You're all invited to my funeral" - Poopsie
Which one do you want as a new wife?? "I want all of them!" Can you afford that? "If I get rid of your Aunt Marilyn, then YES!" Uncle Brooks
Thanks Girls for an AWESOME trip!!!
Back Row: Michelle M., Jackie, and Christine
Middle Row: Susan, Brandi, Paige, Lindsey, Michelle H., and Ahna
In Front: Hardy
Monday, August 29, 2005
12 Hour Vegas Extravaganza
Some people told me I was crazy. Others said that this was the best idea they had heard. But I knew, it was going to be one of those nights you just don't forget. If you know me - you know I LOVE birthdays! It is a great excuse to party hardy! And it is the one day a year that you are supposed to feel extremely special. I try to call all of my friends on their birthdays - just cause. That is sometimes the one day of the year that I talk to people. But just hearing the smile in their voice makes it all worth it. On that note, this is what I did.
Wednesday, Aug. 29th is one of my best guy friend's birthdays. His friendship means a lot to me. And for all of my bitching and dragging him to silly movies, I wanted to do something super special, so this is what I came up with: 12 hours in Vegas. After a bunch of nights out lacking on the eye candy, I thought we needed to get out of town. Two weeks ago, I decided this was a go and bought the tickets. I didn't tell a lot of people, because it was going to be a surprise. Friday night, too many people knew and I was just waiting for someone to slip. Surprisingly enough, they did alright. Friday night was a blast, but made Saturday a little rough to begin with. I got up early, came home, ate breakfast, and went back from a nap. Finally I started to get ready... and the trip began.
Had to find something to wear that was cute on the inside, but not so scandalous on the outside... this is what I came up with.
Sweet, but not too sweet. Mom was in on the deal and I had her pick up Eddy, because I was "running late". Then I said that we had to take her somewhere. All Eddy knew is that we were going clubbing, although leaving at 3:30 pm was a little hard to explain. But he sure was ready to go.
Mom said we were going to Gilroy. How she came up with that, not exactly sure. Although he didn't ask any questions. He just knew I got him for the night. We pulled up to the airport, and mom goes, "I guess we aren't going to Gilroy." At that moment, I was asked, where are we going? So I took that as my cue to pass his boarding pass to the backseat. He couldn't believe it. I got a big hug when we got out of the car. And on our way we went. Our flight was delayed a few min. So we took the time to lay out the itinerary and cinnabons!
We boarded the plane and because Friday was long, I dozed off. But a short flight and we were in Vegas. I had decided dinner was going to be at Le Provencal at the Paris. It has opera singers every hour and of course, they do a grand ol' Birthday song.. music playing through the entire restaurant, 2 people with mics, 2 more background singers. I just couldn't resist the embarrassment. :o)
Of course the signature dinner pic, before things get silly...
Eddy grabbed a drink
as we went to window shop for a bit at the Forum shops until we realized that waiting in line may be a better idea. I had talked to my friend Dan 2 days before I left and coincidentally he was in Vegas the same weekend, or perhaps we were there the same time, seeing he actually had a hotel room. The line was longer than I would like to admit. The same line took me 1 hour to get into Pure in July. Triple that for this trip. I guess that is what you get when Prince, Justin Timberlake, and Cameron Diaz are all hanging out. Plus who knows who else.
We made friends with the guys behind us...(photo taken later in the night)
Our threesome and twosome become a fivesome. We checked out girls the entire time. Small frame, huge knockers, that seemed to be the favs. (definitely fake) We finally got into the club and immediately headed upstairs seeing that is my favorite part of Pure. 80 degrees outside and a BEAUTIFUL view of the strip.
After dancing, dancing, boozing, and more dancing, they closed the roof down at 4:30 am. At this point, Dan had gone home with the chick that he started dancing with when we first got in the club. Come to find out, they lost each other shortly after they left. Our new found friends that ended up hanging out with us for the rest of the night. Oh yeah, there was a Paige sandwich around 4 am. And yes Eddy, it was still WEIRD! Anyhow, they left too. So we went downstairs and there was more music, naturally, we went back to dancing. Finally decided @ 5 am that Breakfast was a grand idea. The place I thought we would go was closed for remodeling, so we went to the Venetian and ate at the Grand Lux Cafe. Eddy was practically passing out.
And I was looking fabulous at this point.
Let's try that again...
Breakfast ran late and I think I siestaed in the taxi on the way to the airport. By the time we made it to the gate, the plane was already half boarded. We were the 4th to last people on the plane. Talk about timing. We split up because we both knew we would be out like a lite. I talked briefly with the guy next to me. When we were getting off the plane, he said we should hang out. I think he liked me... even after 12 hours of insanity in Vegas.. I thought that was funny. Called Mom and she was almost there... thank goodness. I was SUPER tired. Long day/night
Let's not to look so out of it...
oh well that one was a little blurry. This concludes the adventure!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY EDDY!!! Glad you had a good time!
"There is a thin line between Saturday night and Sunday morning." - Jimmy Buffet
Wednesday, Aug. 29th is one of my best guy friend's birthdays. His friendship means a lot to me. And for all of my bitching and dragging him to silly movies, I wanted to do something super special, so this is what I came up with: 12 hours in Vegas. After a bunch of nights out lacking on the eye candy, I thought we needed to get out of town. Two weeks ago, I decided this was a go and bought the tickets. I didn't tell a lot of people, because it was going to be a surprise. Friday night, too many people knew and I was just waiting for someone to slip. Surprisingly enough, they did alright. Friday night was a blast, but made Saturday a little rough to begin with. I got up early, came home, ate breakfast, and went back from a nap. Finally I started to get ready... and the trip began.
Had to find something to wear that was cute on the inside, but not so scandalous on the outside... this is what I came up with.
Sweet, but not too sweet. Mom was in on the deal and I had her pick up Eddy, because I was "running late". Then I said that we had to take her somewhere. All Eddy knew is that we were going clubbing, although leaving at 3:30 pm was a little hard to explain. But he sure was ready to go.
Mom said we were going to Gilroy. How she came up with that, not exactly sure. Although he didn't ask any questions. He just knew I got him for the night. We pulled up to the airport, and mom goes, "I guess we aren't going to Gilroy." At that moment, I was asked, where are we going? So I took that as my cue to pass his boarding pass to the backseat. He couldn't believe it. I got a big hug when we got out of the car. And on our way we went. Our flight was delayed a few min. So we took the time to lay out the itinerary and cinnabons!
We boarded the plane and because Friday was long, I dozed off. But a short flight and we were in Vegas. I had decided dinner was going to be at Le Provencal at the Paris. It has opera singers every hour and of course, they do a grand ol' Birthday song.. music playing through the entire restaurant, 2 people with mics, 2 more background singers. I just couldn't resist the embarrassment. :o)
Of course the signature dinner pic, before things get silly...
Eddy grabbed a drink
as we went to window shop for a bit at the Forum shops until we realized that waiting in line may be a better idea. I had talked to my friend Dan 2 days before I left and coincidentally he was in Vegas the same weekend, or perhaps we were there the same time, seeing he actually had a hotel room. The line was longer than I would like to admit. The same line took me 1 hour to get into Pure in July. Triple that for this trip. I guess that is what you get when Prince, Justin Timberlake, and Cameron Diaz are all hanging out. Plus who knows who else.
We made friends with the guys behind us...(photo taken later in the night)
Our threesome and twosome become a fivesome. We checked out girls the entire time. Small frame, huge knockers, that seemed to be the favs. (definitely fake) We finally got into the club and immediately headed upstairs seeing that is my favorite part of Pure. 80 degrees outside and a BEAUTIFUL view of the strip.
After dancing, dancing, boozing, and more dancing, they closed the roof down at 4:30 am. At this point, Dan had gone home with the chick that he started dancing with when we first got in the club. Come to find out, they lost each other shortly after they left. Our new found friends that ended up hanging out with us for the rest of the night. Oh yeah, there was a Paige sandwich around 4 am. And yes Eddy, it was still WEIRD! Anyhow, they left too. So we went downstairs and there was more music, naturally, we went back to dancing. Finally decided @ 5 am that Breakfast was a grand idea. The place I thought we would go was closed for remodeling, so we went to the Venetian and ate at the Grand Lux Cafe. Eddy was practically passing out.
And I was looking fabulous at this point.
Let's try that again...
Breakfast ran late and I think I siestaed in the taxi on the way to the airport. By the time we made it to the gate, the plane was already half boarded. We were the 4th to last people on the plane. Talk about timing. We split up because we both knew we would be out like a lite. I talked briefly with the guy next to me. When we were getting off the plane, he said we should hang out. I think he liked me... even after 12 hours of insanity in Vegas.. I thought that was funny. Called Mom and she was almost there... thank goodness. I was SUPER tired. Long day/night
Let's not to look so out of it...
oh well that one was a little blurry. This concludes the adventure!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY EDDY!!! Glad you had a good time!
"There is a thin line between Saturday night and Sunday morning." - Jimmy Buffet
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