Just Another Day in the Office

Greetings from my remote office- Starbucks! Thank goodness for their prevalence!

Wait, You're Back? Really?

If it weren’t for the fact that I don’t currently have internet where I am living, this all would have gone up on a blog weeks ago.  Every little thing that has happened lately, I have put mental pen to mental paper and have written something amusing, witty, and memorable- for myself.  But since having moved- and sending out my “new address!” e-mail, many people have written back to me and said, “Congrats on the new job! Are you doing a blog on it like last time?” Well, if I had time to respond to those e-mails (thank you by the way!) I would have originally said, eh no.  I have to work on nailing my new job- priorities people!  But all these e-mails and suggestions and messages got me to thinking about how much I do miss writing, and what funny and interesting observations I really would like to write about.

So, that being said.  Patent Pumps are back.  Let’s lay some ground rules though, shall we?

Will the boarding passes be back too, you ask?  Well yes- sort of.  Instead of two wheels taking off and touching down on tarmack, I’ll be spending a little bit more time in my own wheels, driving about on turnpikes, tollways, freeways, country roads, you name it.  And by my own wheels, I mean my new company car.  More on that later.

What about all that anonymity like last time? Are you going to come up with codenames and aliases for people in your adventures?  I don’t know… guess you’ll have to read to find out!

Is this just going to be about your job again? I work enough and don’t really want to just read about someone else’s workload…. No way.  I’m broadening the scope a little bit.  I’ll be updating from the road, between applications (*hint hint*), before, during and after adventures.  All work and no play makes Jane a dull gal!

I promise to update as often as my schedule allows, as long as you promise to be an avid reader.  My pumps are back off the shelf, and actually, literally at the cobbler as we speak getting re-heeled.  Time to break in the patent pumps again- here we go!

Patent Pumps Field Guide to Strange Household Visitors

And by strange household visitors, I don’t mean those house guests who stay as they pass through town, nor am I referring to estranged relatives who overstay their welcome and eat all your food.  I am referencing those unidentifiable creatures that crawl in corners, hang from the ceiling, and buzz around the rim of your cocktail in the evening.  What, you don’t have cocktails in the evening?  Well, you might consider mixing yourself a stiff drink after the bugs you came across in my new house. 

There could be a handful of reasons why the weirdest bugs in the state of North Carolina inhabit my house.  One, my charming little duplex was previously inhabited by the oldest woman in the city of Burlington.  Just kidding- but really, the property hadn’t been cleaned or really lived in in a long time, and then I came along.  Being an older home, it’s got its character and charms, and lots of quirks; and I think some of those quirks are bugs.  Primarily though, I think my infestation problem is due to the beautiful oak tree that stands in the middle of my porch expansive. 

What I’d really like to know is what type of bugs they are, not even really how to get rid of them because honestly, there are not too many (and I need the company).  They are just the strangest looking creatures I have ever seen.  And when one makes an appearance- be it the bright red, fuzzy spider, or the clear amoeba-like centipede with brown hairs- it’s like a stand-off in the middle of the kitchen floor, to see who is going to move first. 

The following are techniques I’ve found particularly useful (because my boyfriend does not live with me and is not here) to kill bugs:

• Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and stomp on the little (or sometimes big) guy
• Go to work and hope he’s gone by the time you’ve returned
• The humane method, collect him in a cardboard moving box and escort him outside with his other friends
• And finally, look up to the ceiling and think, why on earth have I not gotten a dog yet? Don’t they eat things like this?

All four are effective methods, although the latter makes me homesick for my parent’s dogs, and then I start thinking about home, and my dad’s great cooking, and I am immediately sidetracked at the question: what shall I make for dinner?

More on cooking for one later. An by later, probably when I get back from Fall Travel season!

What I Love About Being Home

I have a post from earlier on titled, "Things I Love About the Road." Well, now it is time to tell you about the things I love about being at home. Ready?

• Having a drawer, for anything, like jewelery, make-up, crafts, junk, etc. Everything I need is right where I need it to be.
• Ready access to my entire wardrobe. I know, you're thinking, "Really? This is what you're excited about?" But you try living out of a suitcase for a year, and then tell me how much you missed your favorite bright blue suede pumps that you couldn't take on the road with you...
• My bed is probably far superior to yours, and rivals every hotel bed I slept in in the last year. It is like sleeping on a cloud and I am so happy that I get to sleep in it every night.
• Having the same parking space, every time, and always knowing where my car is, ie. outside by the mailbox.
• The familiarity of it all, like the smell of the house when my dad cooks, or the way my room feels after a hot day in the sun.
  
• They are going to think I'm fibbing, but being home with my mom and dad is awesome. They make me realize how lucky I really am. And, although I haven't quite grown accustomed to their TV preferences, I at least stick around for Jeporady and Huell Howser and watch with them.
• Two words: Free. Laundry.
  
• Getting dressed for work in the morning because a.) I have my entire closet to chose from and b.) I can ask those who are home (mom, dad and dogs) which outfit looks best. I only change like, two times in the morning. Ok, maybe three.
• Ready access to good wine, and the right people to drink it with.
• The Dogs, I'm finding, will never respond to me when I talk to them, but it is so nice to see them wagging their tails at me every morning when I wake up.
• Proximity to family and friends in California is pretty grand because we are all in the same state, or I guess I mean, I'm in the same state. Visits to San Francisco or San Diego are much easier than before, and thankfully, much more frequent!
  

It isn't an easy transition being home, I will tell you that much, but I am thankful to have a wonderful, loving place to come home to. My patent pumps happily sit on a shelf in my closet, and are happy to trot down to Sylmar every once in a while, when I wear them to work.

Happy Belated Birthday, America!

Yes, I know this photo lacks any sign of patriotism, flashy Americana, hot dogs or fireworks, but I will tell you, it oozes Wild West, and captures the wilderness of a part of America I do love so much. Lucky me, I got to spend Independence Day with all of my favorite people (minus the Little Bug of course, who is having the time of her life in Washington State), at the Kern River, where I captured this serene scene. There's nothing better, in my opinion, then being outside and spending time with your family and friends- if the weather is good of course. Although the trip was far too short, I soaked up the sun, lounged in the icy creek, and learned quite a bit about fly fishing. In fact, did you know that on July 4th, you don't need a fishing license? Thank you Department of Fish and Game!

The patent pumps did not come out for this trip- instead, I sported sandals and yes, do I dare say... Crocs!! I swear, they are only for camping!!!

Long live Elon!

A view of those gorgeous brick paved walkways I was telling you about...
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Practice Patience

Practice patience- something I’ve learned to appreciate in the last year for certain. Patience while you wait for a delayed flight. Patience while you wait for lost luggage to arrive. Patience to hear back from people you need information from. Patience to see people you’ve been away from and want to be close to. Patience to find the next job, the next path, the next direction.

Dear Reader, THANK YOU for being patient with me! More than a month has passed since my last update and the Patent Pumps have been ALL OVER the place. Indiana to California, to New York, and then back to California and off to Indiana again- it never ended. Except, it did. About three weeks ago, and it was an awfully bittersweet ending. The unexpected passing of my grandmother took away my focus from The Organization, and as I once again crossed the country to return home to be with my family, I knew that this ending was anything but the ending I had desired for this year long experience on the road. Despite being away from my family at the end, and the horrible pain I was feeling from the loss of my grandmother, I never felt more supported by The Organization than I did in those last few weeks. Sisters from across the country reached out to me in love and support. My family was not just at home in California, but spread out across the country- connected through our sisterhood, wisdom, and devotion- and I did not feel alone.

On a lighter and more cheerful note though, my last trip to Indiana (well, for a while at least) was rather marvelous. My last day in the office came and went, and although I did miss my other Patent Pumped traveling companions, it was time to turn in my bag and patiently wait for my next big adventure. While waiting though, I spent the week sprucing up a friend’s house in Fishers- mulching, weeding, landscaping, etc. It may not sound exciting to you, but it was fun to get a little dirty and “play house” for a week. I ventured to Indiana’s oldest bar, The Slippery Noodle, in downtown Indianapolis, for great music and dancing and met up with my best friend for a truly wonderful night.

Sad to leave Indiana and present company at the end of the week, I flew down to North Carolina for two weeks to spend time at the Beehive and celebrate Elon Graduation with all of my friends. It was surreal to be back for the week- strange to think that a mere year ago I was there receiving my diploma- but wonderful to share in the moment with all of my friends who were graduating. Not only did I discover that I am really missing the brick paved walkways of Elon, but I am also missing the Carolinas. A stint in Raleigh during my visit made me think seriously about moving to the capitol city. Perhaps I will have to wait patiently until an opportunity arises for me to move back there- it is a definite possibility.

Patent Pumps Reunite for One Last Hurrah!

In case you forgot where I traveled, and the state that holds the key to my heart... CALIFORNIA. Home to 13 of The Organization's chapters.

My favorite Region 4 traveling partner. We make up two of the three members of Team Awesome.

Last day in the office with my Consultant "Sister Friends."

Consultant Team at our Headquarters in Indianapolis, IN.

Save the Best for Last

You know, they say you save the best for last…. Well, my current visit is definitely an amazing group of women, true representatives of The Organization if you ask me. Overall, the group here at Fullerton is an organized, supported (and supportive), creative group of leaders. They are well rounded and beautiful, friendly and amazing hostesses. They have been a joy to work with; a truly great way to end my long journey on the road.

However, in thinking back on my last year working for The Organization, I really don’t think I could grant any particular group as being “the best.” Surely, there were groups that I enjoyed more than others, but really, it was all due in part to circumstances. Each visit was important to me in its own way. One group may have been a bit more challenging than I had anticipated, and thus, encouraged me to work harder for them. Another group may have been dealing with a particular issue, and although I may not have been able to address all concerns equally, I helped them to make some progress against all odds. I’m not going into specifics, but I will give you a nice overview of my favorite experiences:

Best Hostesses: Irvine
Best Food: Berkeley
Most Entertaining and Enjoyable: Utah
Most Challenging, but Meaningful: Oregon
Most Dynamic: Sacramento
Most Driven: Boise
Best Location: San Diego
Most Fun: Los Angeles
Most Representative of The Organization: San Luis Obispo

I had lunch with a future Patent Pumped sister today, a girl who I had the privilege of working with several times this year in Southern California. I listened intently as she described to me how excited she was for her year-long adventure living out of a suitcase. At the same time, I could relate to her nervousness and all that she was anticipating before her exciting, new job is to begin later in the summer. A year ago, I’d never even believe that I’d learn as much as I have now. I feel truly confident to take on any challenge, in any field… except for maybe rocket science. It has been quite a year, and for once, I am at a complete loss of words to describe how I’m feeling for you all.

As I prepare to give my last formal Chapter presentation, I’ve carefully brushed off my patent pumps so that they shine, especially today. My badge is secured just above my Life Loyal pin, and I’m totally sporting my stereotypical “sorority girl” pearls today. That’s right, I’m owning it and proud. My heart is definitely heavy with sadness at not returning to work with such remarkable women. But, at the same time, I find that I’m consistently thankful for the opportunities that I’ve had and the relationships I’ve cultivated thanks to my membership in The Organization.

This won't be my last post, but I'm nearing the end, just FYI. Stay tuned for updates on where this show is taking off to next. The blogging will continue- new theme, new address.

Take me out to the ball game...

This time last year, I would've been cheering on the Greensboro Grasshoppers and Durham Bulls game with my sisterrs.... But I traded up and came to a major league game instead. Still came with my sisters though, no trading up needed there!

Out with the ladies of Cal State Fullerton who are remembering a member of The Organization tonight who was tragically killed in a car accident with Angels player, Nick Adenhart.
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Flowers! Zot zot zot!!!

The lovely ladies of UC Irvine gave me flowers this week! They said it would help to brighten my room. They were right.

Only downside? No vase. So, the ice bucket shall have to suffice.
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Stripes of Honor

Over the last year, I have noticed a handful of grey hairs making a stealthy appearance on my head of thick, dark brown hair. I’ve also noticed that not only are they starting to appear in greater numbers, but they don’t style the same was as other hairs, and they’re not as soft. Usually I just try and ignore the grey hair, but with my latest haircut (which I’m finally beginning to enjoy), I feel like they are all visible, all the time. This is most likely distracting during all of my meetings with women from The Organization….. they must think, “How old is this woman? She couldn’t possibly give me a good idea for our mixer. Look at all her grey hair!”

I have to credit someone else for coining the term “stripes of honor”, because although I developed the theory, he has invented the term, as per his witty self. Let me divulge. I was discussing with him the appearance of grey hair, presenting the old wives tale to him that if you pluck a grey hair, three more will sprout in its place!! Does your hair turn grey because of your genes? Or do you become a silver fox thanks to your stress level? Can you distinguish if you got them from one thing or the other? Probably not is what we decided. So, the theory.... I’d also like to think that these grey hairs represent some wisdom I’ve gained, or passed along to others, not just crappy genetics or stress. Sort of like that, because I’ve worked so hard and had some type of meaningful experience, I’ve earned this “stripe of honor” as a way of making me more illustrious, confident, successful. Have a productive meeting with the Dean of Students for The Organization- gain a stripe of honor. Put myself out there for a really fabulous job and get an interview- gain a stripe of honor. Get turned down from that really fabulous job- gain two stripes of honor and some helpful advice, and maybe a new direction too.

I may complain on occasion about these rogue hairs, but at the end of the day, I kind of appreciate their existence. I feel like it really does make me a bit more distinguished, signs also that I have truly earned these “stripes of honor” if they are truly stress related. That, or I’m destined to become a curator of my own fancy art gallery, or Cruella DeVille. I’m gonna hope it’s the former, but appreciate them all the same.

Travel Obsession #9

Logitech WebCam: I have had this device for a couple years now. When I was in school it was a great way to connect with friends who were studying abroad, or even catch up with my family and friends who I hadn't seen in a few months. Seeing faces makes all the difference- you get the emotion that you just don't get over the phone or a message. And, with free programs like Skype and Google Chat, I'm able to easily connect with friends all of the time. This particular WebCam packs up easily and plugs into my USB drive. Most WebCam's have auto focus now, so you're almost always going to have really clear images. For those late nights or weekends when I'm alone on the road, my WebCam makes it feel like my friends are right in the room with me.

Dear Milena,

You may not know this, but I’ve mentioned you before in my musings from the road- I do hope you don’t mind! I have thought of you countless times this year and have smiled, especially when I’ve worked with a group of New Members. And more than once I have felt your presence in a part of the country I’ve never explored. You know, I knew that joining The Organization would change me. I knew I’d have an infinite network of sisters and connections upon whom I could rely. I was confident that I’d foster lasting relationships, and develop as a strong individual. And then too, there are those thoughts that almost every young sorority woman has- of finding her bridesmaids and future play date buddies, etc.. I may not have gone that far (play date far I mean), but I do know that despite our abbreviated tenure, you changed my experience and the experience of others- permanently.

Today, I want to thank you more than ever, for your unending friendship, your consistent happiness and your contagious smile. I know I’m not the only one who will always remember how much your smile could brighten a room. There are 130 other sisters from Elon who knew that specifically- your initiation day comes to mind. I’ll never forget how gorgeous you looked the day you walked down the stairs after the days ceremony, and how happy you made everyone feel, myself included. You truly understand how to shed the light of love and friendship around you, and for that, I thank you still for showing love to all. The Organization is lucky to have you, for you are a member- always.

Loyally,

Ms. World Traveler

**Follow this link to learn more about Milena: http://www.elon.edu/e-net/Note.aspx?id=936376

Ready, set... PACK!

Slight change of plans.

Home for the night, switching out some clothes, doing laundry, etc. But this time, packing for two months! Turns out the patent pumps will be kickin it a little longer. Stay tuned for a schedule update in the coming days.

But, if you were ever curious what it looks like when you pack for a 2 month trip, here's a good idea for ya...
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Rewind: San Francisco Mission District's Balmy Alley Murals

"Located a block from the Precita Eyes Mural Arts and Visitors Center in the San Francisco Mission neighborhood between Treat Avenue and Harrison Street, Balmy Alley has a concentration of more than 30 vibrant and colorful murals painted on fences, building walls and garage doors. In the Mission neighborhood densely packed with murals, Balmy Alley is at the center of it all. Muralists began working in San Francisco's Balmy Alley as early as 1971. Many of the original murals are still there as well as many murals that have been painted over the intervening years.

The Balmy Alley murals are very diverse both stylistically and in the subject matter. Some of the murals feature cartoon-like illustrations that playful and juvenile. Other murals along Balmy Alley grapple with difficult subjects, such as a memorial to people who have died from AIDS or depictions of political strife and war in Latin America. Another mural honors the great muralist Diego Rivera and his wife, the painter Frida Kahlo. And another is a tribute to women muralists of the Mission District. One colorless mural, depicts two men and a woman jumping through a barbed-wire fence lined with keys. The woman has her hand held high, making the peace sign.

One of the best parts of about San Francisco's Balmy Alley and the Mission District murals in general is that the murals are part of a thriving vibrant community that is as colorful and diverse as the murals themselves. On Balmy Alley, take a peak through the knot-hole of a mural-painted fence and you'll see and old car supported on blocks or a latino washing his truck or a patio table and chairs. Along the alley, you'll see signs that warn you to beware of dogs as well as a lettering for the Taqueria Vallarta, which is on 24th Street."

*Article courtesy of ZurdoGo Destinations: http://www.zurdogo.com/

T-Minus 3 Weeks

I only have a handful of visits left before I will be putting my patent pumps away for a little while, and although I’m sad to be ending with The Organization, I smile profusely when I think back on the year I’ve had. The traveling alone has been priceless, and I know for sure that staying put in one place for more than a week is going to be a strange transition for me. Yesterday, as I was traveling to Arizona- where the weather is currently perfect, by the way- I reflected on how I have changed when it comes to the art of traveling itself. The physical act of packing, and getting to the airport, and checking in, and going through security, and waiting for your plane- all that stuff that seems stressful for a lot of people, has become second nature to me.

Saturday, I slept in and casually packed for my next few visits within the hour. Normally, this would have taken at least a few hours, while I tried everything on, and folded it all into small piles, being sure to match shoes with accessories and so on and so forth. Now everything has its place, certain shirts go with particular pants or shoes, and all my stuff packs up, folds up, zips up, rolls up and tucks away neatly into an organized roller bag. OK, there may be two large bags, but I’m on the road for weeks sometimes. A girl needs two bags if she has to look good all the time. And on occasion, shop for a new work shirt, or a pretty dress.

My patience while traveling has improved a lot. Not that I was too cranky to begin with- I love people watching, seeing new things, etc.- but now I just go with the flow if things cramp my style; these would be referred to as nonlethal inconveniences. I find that a large coffee fixes nonlethal inconveniences rather quickly. I don’t mind the lines at the airport anymore because I’ve discovered ways to get around them or talk my way to the front. My favorite is the “frequent traveler” line at most airports, because it is usually empty, and I justify my using it because I have a snazzy briefcase and, let’s face it- travel frequently. Sometimes, I can even get through 10-12 emails while waiting in line thanks to my Blackberry.* (*This would include work and personal e-mails thanks to both oh my phones!) Checking in for flights is a breeze now that United and Southwest airlines have barcode scanners that will interface with my Blackberr(ies). And sitting next to a crying baby or a Chatty Cathy- puuhhlease… I have my noise cancelling headphones. So, I can work productively on my flights, or catch up on some sleep- usually the latter, let’s be honest.

Some people hate traveling, but I love the stress of it all. Not traveling consistently and being on the go is going to be different- I’m sure I will develop cabin fever. But I guess to combat the cabin fever, I gotta develop a new schedule. And that will include, primarily, the gym. Like I said, patent pumps will be stored for a while, and tennis shoes will take the lead.

Enjoyed a lovely week off in San Francisco and the Napa Valley with friends; stay tuned for SF posts- now back to the grind for the last three weeks!

Travel Obsession #8

Southwest Airlines Free Drink Coupons: I like flying southwest for many reasons…
1.) I always check in early and get the perfect seat.
2.) They are witty and sassy and I like that on a flight.
3.) They have tasty snacks.
4.) Lots of flights = free roundtrip ticket!
5.) Lots of trips = free drink coupons, ie. one can enjoy a glass of wine en route to their final destination. Takes the stress out of traveling.

I left my heart in San Francisco. But, I came back to get it.

The Presidio of San Francisco
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Sunset from Mount Soledad

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