Alright, so I'm sorry that this has nothing to do with Washington, or my travels or my experiences. But I just got this e-mail and it completely made my day. This gives me so much hope!
It was sent to me by Mary LaPrairie who chairs the Woodbury Relay For Life, but it was written by Reuel Johnson, the National Vice President for Relay For Life. Please read if you have the time.
"Two years ago, in April 2007, Virginia Tech was the center of the world's attention ...and Relayers worldwide felt a great deal of pride and admiration when the university president and the student Relay For Life leaders decided to go ahead with the planned Relay just days after the tragic deaths of 32 students and faculty ...showing that Virginia Tech was indeed a very special place...
The students and the university community followed up the next year (2008) with solid increases in teams and dollars raised …coming in at $294,000 ... second only to Georgetown University...but they had only just begun. I had the privilege of being there and speaking at the opening ceremony and just wanted to share a few observations with you ... you may have heard some of the numbers but I wanted to share some additional things as well…
The story of the 2009 Virginia Tech RFL is just incredible...here it is, but it won't do it justice ... you really had to be there!!
- 484 Teams
- 5300 Team members
- $482,500 raised....$188,000 increase over last year
- the RFL was held in the most visible and central location - the drill field - not an easy thing to do !!
- the production company did an outstanding job with the stage, sound system - it was almost like a mini-Celebration On the Hill set-up with the screens around the track, etc
- the event co-chairs - Chris Armstrong and Alice Wagner -- were outstanding !! They have attended and helped to lead sessions at the nationwide and South Atlantic Division Collegiate Leadership Summits
- the student newspaper did a special Relay insert on Friday morning
- Chris and Alice had a total of 120 committee members
- the event had a live video that could be viewed from a connection on RFL.org
- all the trash cans throughout the campus were wrapped with Relay stage wrap ... you could not be on campus and not know that RFL was coming
- the Relay was held on Alumni and Spring football game weekend
- the University President, Dr Charles Steger is very supportive .. and in spite of having to be at a number of functions on Friday still came down to the opening ceremony
- Doctor Steger also requested that the VT Alumni Board stop down and visit the RFL after their formal (tux) dinner ... and a number of them did just that
- I had the opportunity to talk with probably 20-25 committee members during the evening ... can't recall a single committee member who had not been involved in Relay for a number of years .. some with 6-8+ years of Relay experience
- another 5-7 that I talked with would love to work with the ACS !!
- Teams were still signing up the day of the event
- a bunch of VT football players came to the event .. high-fiving the Relayers around the track
- Both Chris and Alice had very personal reasons to Relay (and to lead)...Chris' mom is a 10 cancer survivor and Alice's mom is fighting a very tough on-going battle with cancer...she is fighting to get to the Relay and Alice's graduation in a couple of weeks!!
- Chris' family hosted a tent and invited the parents of any committee member who would be attending to stop by so they would have a place to gather/meet
- There was a big 'Why Do You Relay' board that students could write on ... it was full!!
- the number of survivors was impressive for a university Relay...lots of community and university/faculty represented
- ACS staff support was great...Stephen Milleson has been the primary staff support for years, he recently moved to a new position in the SA Div so Jessica Huff, State RFL director, stepped in…and clearly they did not miss a beat...Stephen didn't miss the event...he was there running the live video feed among other things
- the support of the university is exceptional...they provide for some of the basics that make the event happen
- by having it on Alumni weekend there were lots of folks who came down to see what was going on
- 5000+ students participating in a Relay is an amazing sight!!
- Chris and Alice are exceptional leaders...the event was nearly flawless…the committees all did their jobs...should remind us that this a lot more about developing young leaders as it is about putting on an event !!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Taking a trip...
Alright, so before I start packing my bags, I thought I should write-up some travel advice for anyone who is considering traveling to DC.
There are a lot of fun things to do and see in Washington!
If you vacation out here, I would recommend staying in a hotel outside of DC. Hotel prices in Washington can be pretty pricey, but it’s cheaper staying in Virginia or Maryland.
The Metro system is absolutely fantastic!!! It’s safe and convenient and can get you just about anywhere you need to go. They are pretty busy during rush hour on weekdays, but at most other times, you should have no problem getting a seat. Make sure your hotel is by a Metro station and you will be set!
Oh and remember to stand on the right side of the escalators and walk up the left side! The locals get pretty annoyed when you get in their way, and they will probably voice it!
Things to see, places to go… For younger kids, the museums are pretty cool. The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum and the American Museum of Natural History are must sees (and a plus, they are free!). They are pretty interactive, especially Air and Space. The National Zoo is awesome, so if you get a chance, it’s a good way to spend some time outside!
The Holocaust Museum is really well put together, but it may be too intense for younger kids. I would definitely recommend it, but you will probably leave feeling a little depressed. I did it in two shots, only because it was too depressing to do it all at once. Again, this one is free.
The Newseum documents the history of journalism. It is really interesting, especially if you are into journalism or communication. You could easily spend five hours there. The only downside to it is that it isn’t free. I think I paid $20 for a student ticket.
Of course you have to do the “Washington” things. If you want to tour the Capitol, I would suggest contacting your Representative or Senator’s office. Their tours are much more interesting. The Monuments are gorgeous. If it is warm enough out, try to walk along the National Mall and around the Tidal Basin at night. The White House is very rarely open for tours, but it may be worth a shot. Contact your Representative or Senator’s office and they will try, but don’t count on it.
If you are looking for some evening entertainment, consider going to the Capitol Steps performance. They basically mock politicians and government, both sides of the aisle, in a musical way. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip!
You can find Ghost tours online. Tours were not going when I was out here, but I have heard they are really fun! Washington is full of angry, dead politicians.
Check out Georgetown and Eastern Market if you get a chance. Eastern Market is a fairly big farmers market, with lots of crafts and antiques. Georgetown is the hot scene on the weekends. It’s the upscale neighborhood with lots of good shopping and dining options.
Mount Vernon is a little outside the city, but it is a beautiful estate. For those of you who don’t know much about it, Mount Vernon was the home of George Washington. This isn’t free, but you could spend a day there. The house is open to tour, you can walk around the grounds and through the gardens, see his tomb, etc. It is well kept and a great way to spend a day in nice weather. You will have to go to the end of the yellow line (Huntington) and then take a bus out.
Other fun things to try: Ford’s Theater (where Lincoln was shot), the National Archives (where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence are kept), Bureau of Engraving and Printing (you can watch money roll of the press), and the Supreme Court (you can sit in on a Supreme Court case if they are in session and if you get there early enough)!
Most of the tourist-y things are free, paid for by tax dollars and donors. Privately owned things are not, and they can be a little on the pricy side, especially if you are with a big family.
If you enjoy being outside, rent bikes for a day and ride around the Mall. Or picnic on the Mall or fly a kite on the Mall.
Where to go out to eat? Remember I am fairly picky, so you might not agree with me, but here is what I have:
Ben’s Chili Bowl
Olive’s
Chadwicks
DC Coast
Hard Rock Café
If none of those ideas work, you can usually find something good in Old Town Alexandria. There is a free trolley that will take you up and down King Street. If you want a quick bite to eat for lunch, you can always find a Cosi (think like Panera).
I also have a box of cards with planned walks you can take. They are a lot of fun, so if you would like to borrow them, feel free to ask!
The flowers are gorgeous!!! Cherry Blossom season in March/April is absolutely incredible, and shortly after that, the tulips go like gang busters!!!! Oh and if you travel in the winter: Washington does not deal with snow very well! We Minnesotans are much tougher!!! Weather-wise, expect the unexpected. I was walking outside in shorts and a tank top in February when it was 70 degrees, but it can be very cold and rainy too!
Alright, I know that was pretty long, but hopefully it was a little helpful to anyone who is planning a vacation, or looking for somewhere to go!
Over and out!
There are a lot of fun things to do and see in Washington!
If you vacation out here, I would recommend staying in a hotel outside of DC. Hotel prices in Washington can be pretty pricey, but it’s cheaper staying in Virginia or Maryland.
The Metro system is absolutely fantastic!!! It’s safe and convenient and can get you just about anywhere you need to go. They are pretty busy during rush hour on weekdays, but at most other times, you should have no problem getting a seat. Make sure your hotel is by a Metro station and you will be set!
Oh and remember to stand on the right side of the escalators and walk up the left side! The locals get pretty annoyed when you get in their way, and they will probably voice it!
Things to see, places to go… For younger kids, the museums are pretty cool. The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum and the American Museum of Natural History are must sees (and a plus, they are free!). They are pretty interactive, especially Air and Space. The National Zoo is awesome, so if you get a chance, it’s a good way to spend some time outside!
The Holocaust Museum is really well put together, but it may be too intense for younger kids. I would definitely recommend it, but you will probably leave feeling a little depressed. I did it in two shots, only because it was too depressing to do it all at once. Again, this one is free.
The Newseum documents the history of journalism. It is really interesting, especially if you are into journalism or communication. You could easily spend five hours there. The only downside to it is that it isn’t free. I think I paid $20 for a student ticket.
Of course you have to do the “Washington” things. If you want to tour the Capitol, I would suggest contacting your Representative or Senator’s office. Their tours are much more interesting. The Monuments are gorgeous. If it is warm enough out, try to walk along the National Mall and around the Tidal Basin at night. The White House is very rarely open for tours, but it may be worth a shot. Contact your Representative or Senator’s office and they will try, but don’t count on it.
If you are looking for some evening entertainment, consider going to the Capitol Steps performance. They basically mock politicians and government, both sides of the aisle, in a musical way. Definitely one of the highlights of my trip!
You can find Ghost tours online. Tours were not going when I was out here, but I have heard they are really fun! Washington is full of angry, dead politicians.
Check out Georgetown and Eastern Market if you get a chance. Eastern Market is a fairly big farmers market, with lots of crafts and antiques. Georgetown is the hot scene on the weekends. It’s the upscale neighborhood with lots of good shopping and dining options.
Mount Vernon is a little outside the city, but it is a beautiful estate. For those of you who don’t know much about it, Mount Vernon was the home of George Washington. This isn’t free, but you could spend a day there. The house is open to tour, you can walk around the grounds and through the gardens, see his tomb, etc. It is well kept and a great way to spend a day in nice weather. You will have to go to the end of the yellow line (Huntington) and then take a bus out.
Other fun things to try: Ford’s Theater (where Lincoln was shot), the National Archives (where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence are kept), Bureau of Engraving and Printing (you can watch money roll of the press), and the Supreme Court (you can sit in on a Supreme Court case if they are in session and if you get there early enough)!
Most of the tourist-y things are free, paid for by tax dollars and donors. Privately owned things are not, and they can be a little on the pricy side, especially if you are with a big family.
If you enjoy being outside, rent bikes for a day and ride around the Mall. Or picnic on the Mall or fly a kite on the Mall.
Where to go out to eat? Remember I am fairly picky, so you might not agree with me, but here is what I have:
Ben’s Chili Bowl
Olive’s
Chadwicks
DC Coast
Hard Rock Café
If none of those ideas work, you can usually find something good in Old Town Alexandria. There is a free trolley that will take you up and down King Street. If you want a quick bite to eat for lunch, you can always find a Cosi (think like Panera).
I also have a box of cards with planned walks you can take. They are a lot of fun, so if you would like to borrow them, feel free to ask!
The flowers are gorgeous!!! Cherry Blossom season in March/April is absolutely incredible, and shortly after that, the tulips go like gang busters!!!! Oh and if you travel in the winter: Washington does not deal with snow very well! We Minnesotans are much tougher!!! Weather-wise, expect the unexpected. I was walking outside in shorts and a tank top in February when it was 70 degrees, but it can be very cold and rainy too!
Alright, I know that was pretty long, but hopefully it was a little helpful to anyone who is planning a vacation, or looking for somewhere to go!
Over and out!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
The end is near.....
No, this isn't an apocalyptic prophecy. My internship is winding down and I will be home in a little over a week. Very happy about that!!!!
So a long overdue update. Not a whole lot happened between when Jake was here and when my parents visited. A lot of work, a little school and that was about it.
My parents flew out on Easter Sunday. I picked them up at the airport, we checked into the hotel and went out to dinner. Sunday night was authentic Italian at Il Portos in Old Town Alexandria. It was good, but I prefer American "Italian" a little better. Basically, it was a fairly uneventful night.
So a run down of where all we ate dinner:
Sunday - Il Portos in Old Town
Monday - Chadwicks in Old Town (Monday is half-price burger night!)
Tuesday - (I can't remember...)
Wednesday - The Wharf in Old Town
Thursday - Ollie's Trolley in DC
Friday - Old Glory in Georgetown
The following days seem to follow some sort of routine. I would get up, get dressed for work, chow down on free breakfast at the hotel (usually consisting of a blueberry muffin, fruit loops, a krispy kreme donut, and a glass of orange juice). Then I took the hotel shuttle to the Metro station and went to work. While I was at work, mom and dad did some sight-seeing. After work, I would meet up with them and we would grab some dinner and stop by my apartment for clean clothes for work the next day. Bed time. Next morning, repeat.
It rained the first few days they were here so they were stuck inside at museums most of the day. Nicer on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. We got to explore Georgetown and we took a trip to Eastern Market together. It was good to see them, and of course, hard for me to say good-bye.
The past few days, I've been basically working and getting some homework done. It's definitely no where near as stressful as finals usually are, but I still have some stuff to do. Yesterday I turned in a Policy Paper on Abortion and my entire Internship Portfolio. We had to do all sorts of journals, so those got done on Tuesday night (yes, I am a procrastinator). By next Wednesday, I have to write a "research paper". I'm not sure how a research paper can only be 5-7 pages, but whatever. I am doing mine on Same-Sex Marriage.
Other than that, I'm just wrapping some things up and packing stuff up to come home. Oh and then I have to clean my apartment. That will be a blast.
For the past few years, my dad has been "Scar" for Hannah on the phone. Well apparently Scar told Hannah that Dora the Explorer is at my phone number, so Carly has called to talk to Dora now. This Dora can't speak much Spanish. Our first conversation, I was trying to get her to talk by asking all sorts of questions. At one point, she quit answering me but I could still hear her. I guess she put the phone down and started doing somersaults for a few minutes. When Molly told her to talk to "Dora," she picks up the phone and says "My family is just not right!"
Delaney is in New York City this week and she has been texting me, trying to convince me to come visit her while she is there. It would be totally fun, but I would never get my paper done. She will have to wait another week.
So, I fly in at 11:38am on Saturday, May 2nd. I have to leave for the airport by about 4am to catch my 6am flight (I didn't know they had one of those in the morning too!). I am excited to see my little sister, my mommy and daddy, my puppy, my cousins, and of course Jake. And I don't think sleeping in a decent bed will be a bad thing either.
Over and out!!!
So a long overdue update. Not a whole lot happened between when Jake was here and when my parents visited. A lot of work, a little school and that was about it.
My parents flew out on Easter Sunday. I picked them up at the airport, we checked into the hotel and went out to dinner. Sunday night was authentic Italian at Il Portos in Old Town Alexandria. It was good, but I prefer American "Italian" a little better. Basically, it was a fairly uneventful night.
So a run down of where all we ate dinner:
Sunday - Il Portos in Old Town
Monday - Chadwicks in Old Town (Monday is half-price burger night!)
Tuesday - (I can't remember...)
Wednesday - The Wharf in Old Town
Thursday - Ollie's Trolley in DC
Friday - Old Glory in Georgetown
The following days seem to follow some sort of routine. I would get up, get dressed for work, chow down on free breakfast at the hotel (usually consisting of a blueberry muffin, fruit loops, a krispy kreme donut, and a glass of orange juice). Then I took the hotel shuttle to the Metro station and went to work. While I was at work, mom and dad did some sight-seeing. After work, I would meet up with them and we would grab some dinner and stop by my apartment for clean clothes for work the next day. Bed time. Next morning, repeat.
It rained the first few days they were here so they were stuck inside at museums most of the day. Nicer on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. We got to explore Georgetown and we took a trip to Eastern Market together. It was good to see them, and of course, hard for me to say good-bye.
The past few days, I've been basically working and getting some homework done. It's definitely no where near as stressful as finals usually are, but I still have some stuff to do. Yesterday I turned in a Policy Paper on Abortion and my entire Internship Portfolio. We had to do all sorts of journals, so those got done on Tuesday night (yes, I am a procrastinator). By next Wednesday, I have to write a "research paper". I'm not sure how a research paper can only be 5-7 pages, but whatever. I am doing mine on Same-Sex Marriage.
Other than that, I'm just wrapping some things up and packing stuff up to come home. Oh and then I have to clean my apartment. That will be a blast.
For the past few years, my dad has been "Scar" for Hannah on the phone. Well apparently Scar told Hannah that Dora the Explorer is at my phone number, so Carly has called to talk to Dora now. This Dora can't speak much Spanish. Our first conversation, I was trying to get her to talk by asking all sorts of questions. At one point, she quit answering me but I could still hear her. I guess she put the phone down and started doing somersaults for a few minutes. When Molly told her to talk to "Dora," she picks up the phone and says "My family is just not right!"
Delaney is in New York City this week and she has been texting me, trying to convince me to come visit her while she is there. It would be totally fun, but I would never get my paper done. She will have to wait another week.
So, I fly in at 11:38am on Saturday, May 2nd. I have to leave for the airport by about 4am to catch my 6am flight (I didn't know they had one of those in the morning too!). I am excited to see my little sister, my mommy and daddy, my puppy, my cousins, and of course Jake. And I don't think sleeping in a decent bed will be a bad thing either.
Over and out!!!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Springtime Love in DC
It's been a while since I last posted but I've been pretty busy... Jake recovered enough to fly out last Wednesday, so we had a few nice days together before he flew home yesterday morning. Our modified visit was nice, but its always hard to say good-bye. And yes, I know it's not good-bye, it's see you soon, but still, I am one emotional girl.
Let's see... so Jake got in at about 4:30pm EDT on Wednesday. We took the Metro back to my apartment and had a small birthday party for him that night. Chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream complete with trick candles. I even decorated my apartment with balloons and crepe paper. We walked around my neighborhood a bit as well. He was still pretty tired from being sick, so we made it an early night.
Basically, our goal the entire
weekend was to keep him healthy so we took things pretty slowly. Thursday, we went to the Newseum (the journalism museum) and the National Archives. I think the Newseum was the highlight of his trip. It amazes me how much he has picked up from doing the Weekly... he was constantly telling me fun facts about how spot color works and the evolution of journalism. If you are ever in Washington looking for something fun to do, I think the Newseum is well worth it. A little expensive, but you could easily spend a day there. After that, we headed over to the National Archives to check out the Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence. They are still there. Thursday night, Jake made me spaghetti and his meat sauce. I definitely miss his cooking, but thankfully, my fridge is stocked with leftovers!!!
On Friday, we went to the White House and walked along the National Mall. The security was pretty tight at the White House and we couldn't get very close to the front of it. Turns out Marine One (the President's helicopter) was flying in. For Jake's birthday, I bought him tickets to Capitol Steps, the musical comedy show about current politics that I saw back in January. I think he really enjoyed it. Both of us were laughing the entire time. They were actually recording that performance for NPR, but you can check them out on YouTube as well. I even bought my birthday boy a drink during intermission.... so old. Afterwards, Jake took me out to Chilis because I have been craving buffalo wings for the longest time. They don't have any Buffalo Wild Wings out here which makes me sad....
Saturday, we met up with Kelly and Kyle and went to Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. We took pictures with tons of famous people including Barack Obama. Some great pictures of us in the Oval Office.... maybe someday?!?! After that, we went out to the Hard Rock Cafe for late lunch/early dinner. Then we took the Metro back to my apartment and worked on getting him packed up and ready to go the next morning. We watched Jeff Dunham and called it an early night so we could be up for the airport by 5am on Sunday.
Goodbye was hard for me. Not nearly as bad as when I left but there definitely were a few tears. All in all, it was a great visit. I miss him already but I'm looking forward to seeing my parents in two weeks, and then coming home two weeks after that!!! Can you believe my semester is already winding down?
Oh and for those of you with Facebook, there are many more pictures there!
Over and out!
Let's see... so Jake got in at about 4:30pm EDT on Wednesday. We took the Metro back to my apartment and had a small birthday party for him that night. Chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream complete with trick candles. I even decorated my apartment with balloons and crepe paper. We walked around my neighborhood a bit as well. He was still pretty tired from being sick, so we made it an early night.Basically, our goal the entire
weekend was to keep him healthy so we took things pretty slowly. Thursday, we went to the Newseum (the journalism museum) and the National Archives. I think the Newseum was the highlight of his trip. It amazes me how much he has picked up from doing the Weekly... he was constantly telling me fun facts about how spot color works and the evolution of journalism. If you are ever in Washington looking for something fun to do, I think the Newseum is well worth it. A little expensive, but you could easily spend a day there. After that, we headed over to the National Archives to check out the Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence. They are still there. Thursday night, Jake made me spaghetti and his meat sauce. I definitely miss his cooking, but thankfully, my fridge is stocked with leftovers!!!
On Friday, we went to the White House and walked along the National Mall. The security was pretty tight at the White House and we couldn't get very close to the front of it. Turns out Marine One (the President's helicopter) was flying in. For Jake's birthday, I bought him tickets to Capitol Steps, the musical comedy show about current politics that I saw back in January. I think he really enjoyed it. Both of us were laughing the entire time. They were actually recording that performance for NPR, but you can check them out on YouTube as well. I even bought my birthday boy a drink during intermission.... so old. Afterwards, Jake took me out to Chilis because I have been craving buffalo wings for the longest time. They don't have any Buffalo Wild Wings out here which makes me sad....
Saturday, we met up with Kelly and Kyle and went to Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. We took pictures with tons of famous people including Barack Obama. Some great pictures of us in the Oval Office.... maybe someday?!?! After that, we went out to the Hard Rock Cafe for late lunch/early dinner. Then we took the Metro back to my apartment and worked on getting him packed up and ready to go the next morning. We watched Jeff Dunham and called it an early night so we could be up for the airport by 5am on Sunday.
Goodbye was hard for me. Not nearly as bad as when I left but there definitely were a few tears. All in all, it was a great visit. I miss him already but I'm looking forward to seeing my parents in two weeks, and then coming home two weeks after that!!! Can you believe my semester is already winding down?
Oh and for those of you with Facebook, there are many more pictures there!
Over and out!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Get your flu shot
Nothing ever goes like you expect. This morning I woke up to a nice text message from Jake. "Call me when you wake up." Uh oh. You know something is wrong when you get a text message at 6:35am (which would be 5:35am Minnesota time). Jake ended up in the Emergency Room last night. He woke up and was running a fever, so he thought he should probably go get it dealt with before he got on a plane. Well, at the hospital, he tested positive for influenza. The doctor said that he is contagious and cannot fly on Friday. And no, he did not get his flu shot.
He is pretty bummed that he won't be coming out on Friday. He is a tough kid, but he was pretty upset when we talked this morning. While it is sad that I won't see him on Friday, I am really just more concerned that he is so sick.
He isn't throwing up, just running a pretty high fever. The doctor told him that it is a respiratory flu, so he has an inhaler that is supposed to shorten the length.
Best case scenario, he will be coming out sometime early next week. His mom is helping him reschedule his flight, so hopefully it will be Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. We talked about it and our main goal is to get him better. Being that I am immune deficient, he really can't come out here feeling half-way better. I got my flu shot, but you never know.
I talked to him again tonight. He is still running a fever and his muscles are really sore. Jake's dad drove down to pick him up today, so he is home.
I put together a nice care package for him and sent if off this morning. Hopefully it will get there soon and make him feel a little bit better.
And guess who will be coming with me to get a flu shot next year?
He is pretty bummed that he won't be coming out on Friday. He is a tough kid, but he was pretty upset when we talked this morning. While it is sad that I won't see him on Friday, I am really just more concerned that he is so sick.
He isn't throwing up, just running a pretty high fever. The doctor told him that it is a respiratory flu, so he has an inhaler that is supposed to shorten the length.
Best case scenario, he will be coming out sometime early next week. His mom is helping him reschedule his flight, so hopefully it will be Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. We talked about it and our main goal is to get him better. Being that I am immune deficient, he really can't come out here feeling half-way better. I got my flu shot, but you never know.
I talked to him again tonight. He is still running a fever and his muscles are really sore. Jake's dad drove down to pick him up today, so he is home.
I put together a nice care package for him and sent if off this morning. Hopefully it will get there soon and make him feel a little bit better.
And guess who will be coming with me to get a flu shot next year?
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Friday the 13th....
Yesterday was certainly an interesting day. Highs, lows and everything in between. I'm not usually superstitious, but I think yesterday made me reconsider that.
My day started off swell. Before I even left for work, I had already spilled a little toothpaste on my shirt and lost a contact trying to put it in. Way to go, Amy.
Work was fine, nothing too exciting. I have been working my booty off this week on a PowerPoint presentation for my boss for next week. It's on SCHIP and the Stimulus package, mostly how the legislation affects children. Problem being, neither my boss or I know our audience really well, so I'm not really sure how it will go. Parts of it are super analytical and other parts are pretty simple. Hopefully it will work out.
I left work early for a meeting with Representative Connolly from Virginia. I got to have a one-on-one meeting with him. Last semester, I took a class on campaigns and elections, and I was assigned to his race for our big project. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
So leaving work, I go to McPherson Square station to get on the blue line train (subway) to go back to my apartment, to take my roommate's car for my meeting. I get to the station just as they are roping everything off with crime scene tape. The Metro workers said that the station was closed and to go to Farragut West, one station further down to get on the train. I get there, and they are telling people that it is also closed. We are instructed to go to Foggy Bottom and catch a train there. When I got there, they are lining people up to get on shuttle buses that are supposedly coming. Station number three is closed and I have now walked a over a mile in three-inch heels. Wondering when and if the shuttles really are coming, and not wanting to be late for my meeting, I grab a cab. Rumors had already started on the streets that someone was hit by a train. In the cab, I text Jake who looks it up online. Someone was hit by the train, not sure how or why. News reports say that a man was fatally killed when he "intentionally placed" himself on the tracks. Did not die immediately; rescue crews tried to get to him to save him for a while. That guy did not have a good Friday the 13th. Sad story.
So I get to my meeting with plenty of time to spare. Representative Connolly is a very interesting guy and I really enjoyed my meeting with him. His office is very excited for St. Patrick's Day. He his hosting a big party for his constituents and the kid sitting at the front desk told me that Rep. Connolly is unofficially lobbying for St. Patrick's Day to become a national holiday. I overheard him joking with his staff that he might have dual citizenship in Ireland. His grandparents were born in Ireland which might mean that he has dual citizenship. He is trying to work it out because he shouldn't have dual citizenship if he is a congressman.
I asked him a lot of questions and he had some great answers. Even answers that I didn't see coming. I asked him which high school or college course had the greatest impact on his life. He said his American History class when he was a senior in high school. It was taught by a priest who eventually married Rep. Connolly and his wife Cathy. Their marriage was this priest's (Joe's) last act in the priesthood. Following their marriage, Joe left the priesthood, got married and Rep. Connolly recently attended the wedding of Joe's kid. Also, this class involved Rep. Connolly's first trip to Washington DC.
I asked about why he chose to go into public service. I did not know this, but he was originally studying for the priesthood but chose to go a different direction. He called it "an extension of his calling." He also quoted Ella Grasso and said "Bloom where you are planted." She was the first woman elected governor in the United States.
I asked what his daughter, Caitlin Rose thought of his job and politics. She is a senior in high school this year. Overall, he said that it provides her with many opportunities. She was able to sit with him on the floor of the House for Barack's first "State of the Union" address. Sometimes he goes days without seeing her, because he works such long hours and she is in bed before he gets home. But he makes a point not to miss school plays, recitals, and other big events.
It was really a great meeting and I learned a lot. He took copies of both of my papers and wrote down my phone number so he could call me with any questions. Great guy.
I had dinner with Kelly and Kelly's mom, Lisa last night. I was great to get to talk to them and laugh and stuff. Lisa isn't a typical mom... she knows a lot and you can talk to her like a friend. Lots of fun.
So that was my Friday the 13th. Jake will be here next Friday!!!!!! I am really excited!
Today, I think I am going to meet Kelly and Lisa and do some sight-seeing. I'm not sure what we are going to do, I left it up to them and I'll just go along for the ride. Right now, I'm just waiting on laundry. I am out of clean underwear and socks.
Over and out!
My day started off swell. Before I even left for work, I had already spilled a little toothpaste on my shirt and lost a contact trying to put it in. Way to go, Amy.
Work was fine, nothing too exciting. I have been working my booty off this week on a PowerPoint presentation for my boss for next week. It's on SCHIP and the Stimulus package, mostly how the legislation affects children. Problem being, neither my boss or I know our audience really well, so I'm not really sure how it will go. Parts of it are super analytical and other parts are pretty simple. Hopefully it will work out.
I left work early for a meeting with Representative Connolly from Virginia. I got to have a one-on-one meeting with him. Last semester, I took a class on campaigns and elections, and I was assigned to his race for our big project. But I'm getting ahead of myself.
So leaving work, I go to McPherson Square station to get on the blue line train (subway) to go back to my apartment, to take my roommate's car for my meeting. I get to the station just as they are roping everything off with crime scene tape. The Metro workers said that the station was closed and to go to Farragut West, one station further down to get on the train. I get there, and they are telling people that it is also closed. We are instructed to go to Foggy Bottom and catch a train there. When I got there, they are lining people up to get on shuttle buses that are supposedly coming. Station number three is closed and I have now walked a over a mile in three-inch heels. Wondering when and if the shuttles really are coming, and not wanting to be late for my meeting, I grab a cab. Rumors had already started on the streets that someone was hit by a train. In the cab, I text Jake who looks it up online. Someone was hit by the train, not sure how or why. News reports say that a man was fatally killed when he "intentionally placed" himself on the tracks. Did not die immediately; rescue crews tried to get to him to save him for a while. That guy did not have a good Friday the 13th. Sad story.
So I get to my meeting with plenty of time to spare. Representative Connolly is a very interesting guy and I really enjoyed my meeting with him. His office is very excited for St. Patrick's Day. He his hosting a big party for his constituents and the kid sitting at the front desk told me that Rep. Connolly is unofficially lobbying for St. Patrick's Day to become a national holiday. I overheard him joking with his staff that he might have dual citizenship in Ireland. His grandparents were born in Ireland which might mean that he has dual citizenship. He is trying to work it out because he shouldn't have dual citizenship if he is a congressman.
I asked him a lot of questions and he had some great answers. Even answers that I didn't see coming. I asked him which high school or college course had the greatest impact on his life. He said his American History class when he was a senior in high school. It was taught by a priest who eventually married Rep. Connolly and his wife Cathy. Their marriage was this priest's (Joe's) last act in the priesthood. Following their marriage, Joe left the priesthood, got married and Rep. Connolly recently attended the wedding of Joe's kid. Also, this class involved Rep. Connolly's first trip to Washington DC.I asked about why he chose to go into public service. I did not know this, but he was originally studying for the priesthood but chose to go a different direction. He called it "an extension of his calling." He also quoted Ella Grasso and said "Bloom where you are planted." She was the first woman elected governor in the United States.
I asked what his daughter, Caitlin Rose thought of his job and politics. She is a senior in high school this year. Overall, he said that it provides her with many opportunities. She was able to sit with him on the floor of the House for Barack's first "State of the Union" address. Sometimes he goes days without seeing her, because he works such long hours and she is in bed before he gets home. But he makes a point not to miss school plays, recitals, and other big events.
It was really a great meeting and I learned a lot. He took copies of both of my papers and wrote down my phone number so he could call me with any questions. Great guy.
I had dinner with Kelly and Kelly's mom, Lisa last night. I was great to get to talk to them and laugh and stuff. Lisa isn't a typical mom... she knows a lot and you can talk to her like a friend. Lots of fun.
So that was my Friday the 13th. Jake will be here next Friday!!!!!! I am really excited!
Today, I think I am going to meet Kelly and Lisa and do some sight-seeing. I'm not sure what we are going to do, I left it up to them and I'll just go along for the ride. Right now, I'm just waiting on laundry. I am out of clean underwear and socks.
Over and out!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Girls are crazy!
My baby sister is going to PROM!!!! Crazy, huh? I know I sound like I'm fifty saying this but, I still think of her as a four year old... a four year old who always got me into trouble! Delaney got asked to prom this weekend. She says he is a nice boy so that's good. I like him already because he is the one who made her call me right after he asked her. I will be home from DC by then (its on May 9th) so I will get to see my baby sis walk through grand march, all grown up......
This weekend was great for everyone. I had the best weekend so far out here. Kelly, one of my best friends from high school (actually we met in 8th grade) is going to school out here this semester, so I met up with her, her boyfriend Kyle (also studying out here for the semester) and his friend Nolan who is here for spring break. We had so much fun....
On Saturday, we started out going to Ford's Theater, where President Lincoln was assassinated. But, it was closed for a Saturday matinee, so we didn't actually get to go in. Kelly has been waiting to see this one since we got here in January, so she wasn't too happy about that. Instead, we walked down to the National Archives, and saw the original copies of the Constitution, Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, and Magna Carta. It's amazing considering they weren't taken good care of for the longest time. For quite a while they were all in boxes with other old papers. People just didn't consider the actual documents that great or interesting.
After that, we took the Metro (subway) down to the National Mall. From there we walked around the Tidal Basin, saw the Jefferson Memorial, and walked down by the Lincoln Memorial, over to the World War II Memorial and past the Washington Monument.
By this point, everyone was really hungry, especially Kyle. We decided on the treating ourselves to the Cheesecake Factory up by where Kelly and Kyle go to school. Kelly and I split the most delicious Orange Chicken and rice I have ever had, and I had some amazing chocolate cake for dessert (I'm not a big fan of cheesecake). Definitely good.
Since we didn't get to see Ford's Theater on Saturday, we went back today (Sunday). It was pretty cool seeing where Lincoln was shot, where he died (the Peterson House across the street) and the events of that night. They had the overcoat he was wearing on display - it's pretty ripped up. Interesting to hear how John Wilkes Booth plotted, killed the president, and almost got away.
On Sundays, less is open around the city. We decided to go to the Pentagon City Mall and walk around for a while. Being poor college students, this can be a risky move. However, I made it out only spending five bucks on lunch. Kelly and I went off and had an incredible amount of fun doing all sorts of free stuff at the mall. We sat in the massage chairs for about half an hour, did make-up at Sephora, and browsed the jewelry stores looking at rings. While Kelly is a fairly cheap date, we discovered I have more expensive taste. When I tried on the ring I liked, we discovered a $6300 price tag. Good lord. Kelly fell in love with a beautiful ring for $399.
Really, we had a ton of fun! Both of us got a chance to talk and see some of the city. Next weekend, Kelly's mom is coming. Hopefully we will all do something fun together while she is here! Then my boy comes to see me!!!!!! I cannot wait!!!!!!!
Over and out!
This weekend was great for everyone. I had the best weekend so far out here. Kelly, one of my best friends from high school (actually we met in 8th grade) is going to school out here this semester, so I met up with her, her boyfriend Kyle (also studying out here for the semester) and his friend Nolan who is here for spring break. We had so much fun....
On Saturday, we started out going to Ford's Theater, where President Lincoln was assassinated. But, it was closed for a Saturday matinee, so we didn't actually get to go in. Kelly has been waiting to see this one since we got here in January, so she wasn't too happy about that. Instead, we walked down to the National Archives, and saw the original copies of the Constitution, Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, and Magna Carta. It's amazing considering they weren't taken good care of for the longest time. For quite a while they were all in boxes with other old papers. People just didn't consider the actual documents that great or interesting.
After that, we took the Metro (subway) down to the National Mall. From there we walked around the Tidal Basin, saw the Jefferson Memorial, and walked down by the Lincoln Memorial, over to the World War II Memorial and past the Washington Monument.
By this point, everyone was really hungry, especially Kyle. We decided on the treating ourselves to the Cheesecake Factory up by where Kelly and Kyle go to school. Kelly and I split the most delicious Orange Chicken and rice I have ever had, and I had some amazing chocolate cake for dessert (I'm not a big fan of cheesecake). Definitely good.
Since we didn't get to see Ford's Theater on Saturday, we went back today (Sunday). It was pretty cool seeing where Lincoln was shot, where he died (the Peterson House across the street) and the events of that night. They had the overcoat he was wearing on display - it's pretty ripped up. Interesting to hear how John Wilkes Booth plotted, killed the president, and almost got away.
On Sundays, less is open around the city. We decided to go to the Pentagon City Mall and walk around for a while. Being poor college students, this can be a risky move. However, I made it out only spending five bucks on lunch. Kelly and I went off and had an incredible amount of fun doing all sorts of free stuff at the mall. We sat in the massage chairs for about half an hour, did make-up at Sephora, and browsed the jewelry stores looking at rings. While Kelly is a fairly cheap date, we discovered I have more expensive taste. When I tried on the ring I liked, we discovered a $6300 price tag. Good lord. Kelly fell in love with a beautiful ring for $399.
Really, we had a ton of fun! Both of us got a chance to talk and see some of the city. Next weekend, Kelly's mom is coming. Hopefully we will all do something fun together while she is here! Then my boy comes to see me!!!!!! I cannot wait!!!!!!!
Over and out!
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