Figuring it Out

The Girl is Back in Town

2010-09-02T05:30:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited to announce I have officially made it back to the Mothership of Athens. Right in time for football season I might add (insert evil laugh: Muh Ha Ha).

I admit I had a few concerns going into the process, is it really worth the money when I could commute? Consider 8:00 am classes and late Friday nights: Yes it is! And I really wasn't certain about living by myself, having been blessed with the best roommates in the world. I mean really, can I have a festivus by myself? However, I admit, I kind of like it. If for no other reason than if I get jam on the door handle, its OK its My door! Also, I feel quite certain that my new home on the Mothership will frequently draw others to visit me... hint hint. But what I like most about living alone--is my kitchen. Now, the kitchen is fabulous (especially for a rental) and would be great with a roommate, but by myself the kitchen becomes my own personal laboratory. So when I want to try Indian cuisine or fusion Korean-Thai, I don't have to worry that it will smell or suck- because its just me dealing with it or boyfriend but he is pretty adventurous. This is high on my list of Things to be Thankful for.

So to wrap it up, I'm planning to post pictures (once I find the camera in one of the many boxes sitting in the extra room/office that I haven't touched yet). I just wanted to share how happy I am and that the whole Grad School, move to Athens plan has officially happened!

Hate Doesn't Wipe Out Hate

2010-08-20T07:30:00.001-07:00

I am flabbergasted and furious over recent reactions to US citizens invoking their first amendment rights to practice the religion of their choice. Ignorance is prevalent in our society, it always has been but apparently so is short term memory loss. Let's go over a few facts. A.) Islam is not a terrorist organization, it is a nonviolent religion. Are they fascists Muslims who commit horrible acts in the name of Islam, yes. Does that make all Muslims terrorists-NO!!!!

B.)Need I remind the world of the many other examples of religious violence. Consider, Eric Rudolph who set off a bomb in Atlanta during the Olympics in the name of Christianity. And mind you that is a very minor example of Christian violence. My goal is not to disparage Christianity my point is simply fascist, extremists, unhealthy people perform horrible, violent acts in the name of religion. Its not a Muslim thing. It sadly is part of EVERY religion's past and present.

Think about how we create student violence- we ignore, hate, abuse and beat on kids to the point where they feel like they have no other response but to explode and take that hatred out other people. So, how do we fight terrorism and violence in the US and across the world? Not by spreading HATRED. We stop it by learning about Islam, by helping in Pakistan , a Muslim nation that has experienced more loss and destruction than Haiti, the recent Tsunami and the earlier Pakistan Earthquake combined.

Personally, I can not think of a better building to be put near Ground Zero than a Mosque. A way to show the international community that our country believes in freedom for ALL non-violent beliefs and religions.

I ask everyone, Christians, Jews, Atheists, Religious Leaders, Congress Men and Women to consider the history of our World and country and remember hatred is easy, compassion and an open-mind is hard but worthwhile. (P.S. to our political leaders: you're pathetic attempt at gaining votes by encouraging hatred/discrimination is despicable. Democrat or Republican if you have openly come out against the Mosque in NYC to earn votes, you should be thrown off the Hill on your asses).

Ta Dah!!

2010-06-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

It's been hours, days, months, let's face it two years!!!! since I've felt like I can really dive into blogging. Why, you might ask? Because as of 11:48 on Tuesday June 22, 2010 I am 100 percent blogging for myself and not to impress possible future PR bosses (even though I couldn't completely stop myself from using AP style right then, its a process).

I have officially given my notice at the Marketing Agency, better known as "that place Katie sells toilets". SIDE BAR: I recently found out people actually thought I was selling toilets (hysterical). No, for the past two years I have been publicizing toilets, siding, health care cabinetry (yea that's a real thing). And if you are asking yourself is there really any point to those products being publicized, well No. But again not my concern anymore.

In early July, I will be leaving the world of PR (minus an occasional freelance project to keep food in my belly and Sukie's) for the glorious, engaging and stimulating world of Academics. I am going back to my Alma mater, to the place I feel most at home- Athens, GA to attend UGA and earn my Masters in Political Science. To put a cherry on top of a series of wishes coming true, I will be working as a Research Assistant for one very accomplished professor studying Latin America (Sigh of Excitement and Fear).

So to all of you who have listened to me drone on and on about hating my job, wanting to do something that matters, studying for the GRE (sort of), filling out applications, having screwed up paperwork, selling toilets, even worse tweeting about toilets and every other annoying thing I have done over the past 2 years- thank you, thank you, thank you! Having a support system is the only way I have survived my first Big Girl job and following my dreams.

To wrap it up- I'm Back! Good or bad- the hyper, slightly obnoxious, loud, chatty, high school drama (according to my sister), spastic version of me is here to stay. And though slightly sullen Katie may have been less obnoxious I am thrilled and grateful to feel like myself and to be pursuing something I love.

Ruh Roh

2010-03-29T13:55:00.001-07:00

It seems after months of silence my crew of blogging friends, which is also my crew of everyday friends, college friends, best friends, etc. have once again begun the sacred act (and by that I mean totally unnecessary but sometimes nice to do) of blogging.

The problems is I'm currently in a limbo in life and I feel like until i get past that limbo and can move on to the planning stage (because I LOVE to plan). I'm not fully ready to dive back into the world of blogging.

So, to my more productive friends, who are always obviously more at peace with their lives, (which is awesome) I say, soon. I promise, soon.

Ridiculous

2009-11-17T13:30:00.000-08:00

When I'm sad, tired, bored, angry or basically any other moment when I have just a little bit of time. I go to K's blog and just think, "Yep, that's right she's my friend & she totally made that." It makes me smile every time.

I highly recommend checking it out!

Too Much Fall to Write

2009-10-29T11:59:00.000-07:00

If you read my last post, I assume you gathered I really like Fall. And I'm also going to blame Fall for my complete lack of blogging lately. I'm just enjoying the pleasures of the season too much to blog. (And my job has actually required my attention for the full 9 to 5 period...boo)

Despite the less than stellar season, football has kept me pretty consumed- which I love. But on top of glorious football I have a series of Fall Festivi (plural of festivus) planned.

Last weekend, actually started the celebrations. For the big 2 year the BF and I cooked a fabulous fall feast (and fall allows for a lot of alliteration). Complete with Spicy Turban Squash Soup & Peanut Pumpkin Curry Pasta-which was surprisingly good despite the crazy flavor combos. We also attended two completely polar opposite weddings in one day. Nothing particularly "fall" like about that but it was a lot in one day. And by a lot I'm referring to drinking. But all in all it was a fabulous weekend.

Not to be out done by its predecessor, this weekend has all the elements necessary to be phenomenal. Ladies & Gentlemen its a FESTIVUS! That's right, an entire day complete with costumes, painting, cooking, football, drinking (at least solo drinking) and a general feeling of bliss.

Festivi were a regular occurennce in college but have been harder to coordinate with jobs, living in different cities, etc. But I think the anticipation is only going to make this one that much better. So, look forward to plenty of pictures and interesting stories.

AND there is more fun fall features for the future. The following weekend the Bulldogs are Finally back in Athens. The plan is to book-end the football game with a corn maze and trip to the mountains to see the leaves. Not a bad life I lead. :)

Making me Smile

2009-09-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

This one will be brief. I should actually be working seeing as lately I'm super busy-Weird.

But in pre-work online surfing I found what may be my favorite thing Bakerella has done yet. Did you read in my last post about my love of pumpkin? It's even better mini!!

Pumpkin Pie Bites

Fall

2009-09-23T13:29:00.001-07:00

It has been a long time, the login even took a little convincing that it was actually me trying to write a post. I have no real or good excuses for the severe lack of writing. I've been slightly busier at work, but for those who know about my job going from doing nothing to being "busier" doesn't take up that much time. But none the less I'm Back.

And if I remember correctly I was working on listing my favorite things and I have thought of way to cheat the system because one of my favorite things encompasses most of the things I love most in life- and that is Fall.

I want to say it again... its FALL.

First, fall means football- going home to Athens, cooking, regularly schedule time to hang out with my favorite people, a topic that always annoys my sister, drinking (just a little), screaming until I can't talk anymore. And this is only the first thing I love about fall.

Anything pumpkin flavored and make fun of this if you like, but just think about how excited you were when you saw that Starbuck's Pumpkin Lattes were back. Also, in the pumpkin family I really enjoy cooking squash. I played with alot of recipes last year and I'm excited for another season.

Which brings me to one of my other favorites about fall- cooking. There is football and the squash and then Thanksgiving is just around the corner. And thank goodness for my love of cooking, I have Thanksgiving twice. One of my absolute favorite traditions is our family of friends Thanksgiving. Its changed slightly over the years: now everyone insists the turkey actually be cooked all the way through. And the guys who join us do it b/c they don't really have a choice, not b/c they are mooching for free food, but either way I love it.

I won't go into unnecessary details on this one, but the weather- obvious. Which I'm even more excited about b/c the new apt has a great tree view for watching the leaves fall and as long as Noah doesn't make his way back to Atlanta, the trail by the Chattahoochee should be a really nice place to run.

Ok, I could go on indefinitely about why I love Fall, but I suppose I'll end with b/c it looks good on me. What can I say red heads look good in Autumn colors. So the pretty fall weather and trees in the background help me look better even if I haven't showered in a while.

So yes, I love fall because I look decent even when I smell- what a great season.

Whew...

2009-08-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

So it's been quite the week. Emma and I are officially in our new apartment. As sad as I am to lose my old roomies (particularly Ash, it was a great five years)... I really like our place. The apartment itself is pretty basic, but it will be quite snazzy by the time we are done. Best of all the Chattahoochee Park is our backyard. They told us that when we first looked at the place and I liked the woodsy feel of the complex, it's more like little moutain condos than a normal high-rise apartment. Which Sukie would not have handled. But I wasn't expecting it to be so nice. The park, at least what I have seen, is this great path by the river, it is street-wide and completely flat. Now that's my kind of running. Plenty of people for people watching and dogs for Sukie to smell and then be scared of. I love it. And I have seen people in kayaks going down the river. As much as you may laugh.. I want to rent a kayak.

Best of all, I really like living with Emma. I had concerns nothing major, but i figured it may be difficult. And don't get me wrong we fight. But in a lot of ways I love that we fight. Ash & Mols & I reached a sisterly level were we fought, screamed usually and then got over it. But even that isn't comparable to fighting with your actual sister. We fight and then justare done. We don't have to make up we just move on. I love being able to say, "that looks like crap" and not have to worry about being the negative roommate. It's great. I've loved all my former roommates, but this should be fun. Oh and the fam can't seem to stop themselves from "dropping by". Both the brother and the Dad work pretty close to our apartment. And lets face it, Mom has always liked us best. So I think this will be a year of familly bonding. My family is super tight, kind of like The Family Stone, but a little less liberal and dysfunctional. So I don't know that it will be increased family bonding but I like how little effort it takes. They just come to us.

Anyways, that's the overview. Its been a long week, but good. It's the start of a new semester (I will always be on the semester schedule no matter how long I work outside of the education field) and I have a feeling its going to be a great year.

Hmmm...

2009-08-13T13:43:00.000-07:00

When your boss starts what is certain to be a long conversation with, "I just want to make sure we are aligned" and you don't ever have the opportunity to speak. Do you really have a choice but to align?

Favorites and Not So Much

2009-08-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

We can consider this a pre-post, because I'm fairly certain there will be a better story to go with this idea in a couple weeks. My sister and I are moving into an apartment together...which I'm stoked about, that part is not the "not" of the post title(super odd double negative-type thing I just did). Anyways, this weekend included moving extravaganza part one, which sadly will have at least two more parts. Though it really wasn't that bad and this time we had BF, who will conveintly be absent for the big event. It did however remind me moving is no fun. There is just no way around it the lifting, the organizing, the "I said your left"... not a good time. But I know (though again I'm certain there will be a much funnier/sadder story to tell of the offical moving weekend) it'll be worth it in the end, but one of my favorite things: Is NOT moving. :)

OK. Actual Favorite Thing: Cooking.

I LOVE cooking. It all started when I studied abroad in Italy, we didn't have ovens, Italians are apparently too used to quality meals to partake in the American tradition on frozen TV dinners therefore I had to cook to survive. And there were a few little "gourmet" chefs in our group that gave me a feeling of inferiority I had to overcome.

Now, cooking is something I really enjoy. Trying new recipes, making things up or trying to recreate a restaurant favorite all make me happy. I like having someone to cook for... so if you are hungry let me know. Oh and I watch Food Network obsessively I really can't help myself. This weekend we had cedar plank salmon, fennel & orange salad and grilled asparagus.

Grilled Pizza- A Bobby Flay recipe we recently tried out using a pilsbury pizza crust instead of making our own... So Good!

One last thing, BF and I partook in Downtown Restaurant Week. We went to Cafe Circa and enjoyed a 3-course tasting meal for $25.00 a piece. It was delicious. Creative cuisine with a relazed atmosphere. If you like plaintains you must go to Cafe Circa... if you don't like them or have never had them you should go there to learn to. Its cute too in Edgewood area, so its not so fussy.

Favorite Thing Number One

2009-07-31T12:41:00.001-07:00

In order not to overwhelm myself and mirroring Ash's blog. I'm going to spread out my seven favorite things as they come to me. Due to an interesting and enlightening Thursday evening my first favorite thing:

Spontaneous Moments.

I love unexpected events, if you read my blog then you know at the very least spontaneous moments are likely to be enjoyable because they come without expectations. And being a person who tries, with all her might, to analyze future happenings... spontaneity is good for me. Last night was the epitome of unexpected....

After I finish watching SYTYCD. Aud asked if I wanted to go out, but as she was heading to Midtown I declined. Instead, I took an uncharacteristic shower(I think showering is highly overrated) and was about to get in bed with Wuthering Heights when I receive a text from the BF.

"We are going to the Pony...Are you in?".

My immediate reaction was of course, "Haha, you serious?"...Apparently he was. So at 11:30 I departed the warmth and comfort of my home for The Pony. I don't want to frighten the children so I will leave out the details. However, needless to say an impulsive evening.

The Pressure of Praise

2009-07-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

My sister gave me a Kreativ Award for my rarely updated blog (Fairly bias award, but I'll take it!). However, there is slight problem I now feel compelled to follow along with the rules of the award...at least a modified version. I'm supposed to tell you 7 of my favorite things and then nominate 7 of my favorite blogs that rock my world. I know 7 is a significant number in myths, religion and literture, but I can't remember why.

Anywho. I have problems staying within the lines of this award. I only follow two blogs besides my sister's, Ash and Tiff. Both great reads. Additionally those three people are the only ones who follow me... I'm not very popular it's ok. Basically, I'm going to give 2 awards and hope my blogging friends can take this shtick further. Problem number two: I'm overwhelmed by this concept of listing my seven favorite things. I can't even pick a movie or place to eat without it being narrowed down to a list of three. Seven of my favorite things... so broad. And Julie Andrews is totally in my head right now so I can barely think. Therefore, I will have to get back to this later but I will prevail.

For now: Ash and Tiff you win the Kreativ Award... Woo Hoo. I'd give it to my sister too but think that breaks the rules. Congratulations on this esteemed accomplishment.

Some Days

2009-07-21T13:52:00.000-07:00

Some days... life throws you a curve ball. Curve balls are tricky because in theory they may be a pretty decent opportunity. Pitchers don't expect you to hit a curve ball back at their face, that's why they throw them. So it'd be great to be able to take that curve ball and smack the crap out of it. However, it is so easy to put all your might into it and miss. And then well, your OUT.

So today I'm working on my swing.

P.S. Sorry for the baseball analogy, I went to a Braves game on Saturday.

Ridiculous

2009-07-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

I just got two "Breaking News" emails from CNN about Michael Jackson's funeral. It was a planned event for a dead man. Breaking News implies something was unexpected. For the love of all things holy just let it go. I'm begging you. Unless someone discovers Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett And Micheal Jackson were actually all killed by the same rare disease. It is NOT newsworthy.

The Fourth

2009-07-02T08:40:00.001-07:00

I'm so excited about this weekend... it is all I can think about as I count down the next 20 minutes until my vacation starts. This weekend is destined to be great for no other reason than it is long. Length does matter ;)

Pretty pumped about the Peachtree even though I think its going to kick my butt. That's half the fun though. I'm crossing my fingers and hoping for the tie-dyed shoe t-shirt. No offense but I'm really tired of the peaches... It's the Peachtree I get it. No need to be so literal every year.

Anywho. I also get to see one of my lost boys--- Geoffrey! Whom I miss horribly and as this is his first Fourth of July as a member of the United States Air Force... should be fun.

So nothing insightful or witty for this post.. I'm just pumped.

And congratulations to Brittney Huffington, one of my best friends from my study abroad trip. She is getting married tomorrow and I wasn't able to make it to the wedding. All the best Britty!!!

The Obsession

2009-06-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

Ok. I had a fairly laid back weekend which is nice every once in and while. And when I have random free time to just sit and aimlessly watch TV which of the 70 or so stations do I choose.?

The Food Network.

It is truly an obsession the cooking shows, the challenges, the shows about eating. I love them all. And of course now I have the cooking bug. I just need and want to cook. I've also been going through my cookbooks and constantly perusing foodnetwork.com. Thank goodness soon I will have people to cook for. I'm forcing the BF to come to the house just so I have a mouth to feed, but between July 4th and a belated Father's Day dinner I might be able to calm my obsession.

But by the end of the weekend of feeding only myself "gourmet" creations I felt a little like Diane Lane's character in Under the Tuscan Sun. When she is having that break down and just wants someone to cook for (Minus the gorgeous Italian Villa).

Tonight

2009-06-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

Going with the siblings tonight.... Jealous?

The Problem

2009-06-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

I'm having a little fight with Mother Nature right now and I can tell you she is going to kick my tush. The thermometer seems to be stuck on the 90s no matter what time of a day. Which isn't normally a huge issue for me because I spend the majority of my life in doors, not really by choice... it's called a job. But I need to be outside... running... A lot. The Peachtree Road Race is in exactly 12 days. My running stamina is currently quite low and the heat index quite high hence the problem. My roommate, A, runs early in the morning and late at night (over acheiver). I on the other hand have a small window if I don't work out within the first hour or so of being him its safe to say it's not happening. So Mother Nature, I'm asking for a small break... just for the next 12 days then you go back to showing us your wrath for the creation of the Hummer.

Promise

2009-06-22T13:57:00.000-07:00

Oh and I promise I'll make my picture smaller tomorrow. I'm not THAT self-absorbed.

The New Approach

2009-06-22T13:33:00.001-07:00

Alright, I think I'm ready to get "back in the game" (10 Things I Hate About You fans?).

It's been a long time and I want a different approach. Sooner rather than later I will be going through a lot of changes and despite my lack of womanly curves I don't mean physically.

But I feel fairly certain that even though it will not be easy these changes will help transition my blog from negative nancyville to a more positive, fun space. As blogging, twitter, facebook magazine, etc. become less a part of my 9 to 5 I will actually able to enjoy them.

To prove I'm finding a happier place. Ash sent these to me today. Check out the pics from Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland. I wasn't a huge fan of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory but there is no questioning it is visually stunning.

More Pics to look at!

So for the three people who read my blog. Look forward to new stories from my changing life.

The Pressure

2009-02-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

Update, update, update my sister demands.... I spend all day at work talking about "Social Media" what it means, how do we utilize it, wait what is Twitter...NO MORE.

Work has taken all the fun out of "Social Media" for me. The phrase alone has taken on a level of pain. My agency is on Facebook, Twitter, I create blogs for my clients. Some might say... awesome you get to do that at work?!? That's what I thought at first too, but when you have to categorize, calculate and critique every aspect of Facebook it loses its fun.

So sorry Emma Jean, I will try and update. My computer at home has become an enemy, a daily reminder of my 9 to 5 sitting in front of one of it's brethren all day long.

But, I won't let it win. I will get back to enjoying this space for it's original purpose. Right now I'm Figuring Out how to enjoy it again. Stay Tuned.

The Solution

2009-02-05T13:52:00.000-08:00

OK I get it now. The BF is a few years older and graduated a decent time ago so when we first started dating I found some things he did to be a little...odd. He traveled a fair amount, which isn't bad of course, but he and his friends would talk about and plan their trips way in advance. My philosophy was live in the moment, I can't tell you want I'm wearing tomorrow none the less plan a trip that won't happen for 6 months.

Then I joined the ever thrilling working world and realized two important things about these advancedly planned trips: Limited Time Off and the always elusive Light at the End of the Tunnel.

First, I get 3 days vacation meaning, including the 5 days I get around the holidays I am alloted a whopping 1.5 weeks off out of 52 each year. Therefore every precious day off has to be planned judiciosuly. So, yes I understand why we plan months in advance because coordinating schedules (particularly when only half the group works a tradtional 9 to 5) can get a bit hairy.

Second and ever more important, if you remember my last post I was mourning the loss of holidays, breaks and summers and wondering how does one survive when there is no end in sight. Now I get it, you scrimp and save your precious days off and count down the days until you finally use them creating your own faint light at the end of that long, long tunnel.

So this is not a complaint (ok maybe a little 1.5 out of 52 is a little harsh) more so, it is admission that I was wrong for teasing the BF about his meticulously detailed trips.

Oh and thank you sweet friends of mine for being born, because the other survival mechanism I am applying to this newly realized struggle is the extreme joy I get in planning other people's birthdays. I love nothing more than shoving everything a person enjoys most in life into a 24 to 48 hour period. Party planning, such fun.

The Long Haul

2009-01-28T12:56:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure I am not the only one currently experiencing a little post holidays, post college blues. Some time after the holidays were over I think it hit all of us... that was it... that was your only given vacation for the rest of the year, no spring break, no long weekends, no summer. That realization. Burns.

The job has been good lately I went to Vegas last week with work for a trade show. I admit though tiring its nice in some ways to travel for work. And don't get me wrong I'm not complaining about my job, I like everyone else am just glad to have one.

However, I feel all my friends new to the work force have reached the consensus that summer loving is the song of our past. Now that the holidays are over where is the light at the end of the tunnel? Again this isn't a pity party just a realization... There is no end in sight.

The Confusion

2009-01-14T11:30:00.000-08:00

Just to spite my boyfriend a little, I am going to make my first post in ages about a very mundane story.

So, the BF made it to Atlanta last night and we decided to knock off a restaurant from list of places that neither of us had been to. The lucky winner... Brick Store in Decatur.

I hear about Brick Store... ALL the time. I don't drink beer but was still curious due to the never-ending chatter. So we get to Brick Store thanks to my sexy GPS navigator, Daniel (he is British and totally hot).

Anyways we get there and its packed out and all I was thinking is... It's Tuesday and we are in a recession this place must be damn good.

Then the decent amount of waiting to be seated we are all gathered together for announcement....The Brick Store's oven, store, fire, grill, etc were all broken. All they had to serve were cold sandwiches. REALLY!?! How does your entire kitchen break? And then why is the place standing room only... beer and meat on a slice of bread couldn't people get that at home?

This place must have incredible beer, I may even have to try some if they ever get their kitchen fixed.

That's my story. And yes I am lame enough to blog about a restaurant and I didn't even eat at.

The Low Point

2008-12-11T13:03:00.001-08:00

My bossed just asked me, in the middle of a conference call, if I was sexually frustrated. Why pray tell, simply because I was twirling my hair. Again, I say Low Point.

The Shock

2008-12-11T07:09:00.000-08:00

They are certain moments in life you just can't be prepared for, such as being robbed. Last Thursday our beautiful home was broken into. At the end of my work day, I got a frantic call from my roommate... Our house was broken into. Now we live in a nice area, but don't have an alarm system so I suppose not nice enough.

Before I took a breath all I could think about was Sukie, did they hurt her, take her, did she run away? Luckily, she was fine and my incredible roommate Amanda went into the house to find her hiding upstairs. During crises you learn where your priorities lie and possibly to a fault mine are with my dog.

All of our laptops were taken and some family heirlooms of Amanda's, jerks... Oh and one of Power 90 DVDs. But no one was hurt and the place wasn't trashed too badly. So whats done is done.

Maybe I'll just tell myself that the money they got from our stolen goods went to somebody's kids for basic needs and maybe a little Christmas joy. It doesn't justify the action, but it sounds better than it went to feed someone's drug addiction.

The Disappointment

2008-11-25T12:19:00.000-08:00

Alright, I gave it time before writing. I was afraid of what I might say in the heat of the moment, but I was NOT happy with the movie version of Twilight. Did we learn nothing from McCain and the Republicans, play only to your base and ignore outer parties... you lose.

Twilight was not only made for 13-year-old girls. It was like it was made BY a 13-year-old girl. I can handle the melodramatic perspective, we are talking about a story based on a high school aged love affair, vampire or not everything is dramatic when you are 17. However, I am under NO circumstances OK with directors and screenwriters who think they can write the story better. Look, I don't even think as a whole the series is written all that well, but that doesn't mean you should chop up what is a story about a relationship into a series of fragmented scenes based on famous lines taken out of context and poorly formulated action sequences.

For instance, in the book Edward blocks Bella's car to sit and watch in amusement as every guy in Forks asks her to prom. In the movie this scene is blown through and loses the humor it is originally written with. Now movie adaptations will always involve cutting for time. However if you chose to include a moment from the book in the movie... FEATURE IT AS IT IS WRITTEN.

I feel better, thanks. The strangest part of this rant is despite all my frustrations with the movie and I promise this is only the tip of the iceberg. Every time I see a trailer, I want to see the movie again. So, the movie managed to appeal to the 13-year-old in me who just wants to see a gorgeous guy fall for an awkward girl and save her from danger.

The Big Moment

2008-11-20T13:46:00.000-08:00

So I don't think, at least for the time being, it should be difficult to know what my post is about today. Yes tonight at midnight, I along with my obsessed sister and her friend Leslie, am going to see Twilight.

So tomorrow or possibly later (I will be very sleep deprived) I will let you know how it is. I admit I am a tad bit nervous. I am not playing the expectations game appropriately. I, thanks to my sister, am pretty entrenched in this series. It is difficult to not have high expectations. And I know by some of the casting choices the director has already taken some leeway with the book. We will see. I love these characters... so here's hoping.

The Onesie

2008-11-12T13:43:00.000-08:00

The onesie in all its glory is finally in season!! For those of you who don't remember onesies also known as footsie pajamas. It is a one-piece, full-bodied suit all the way down to the feet. Target's new age name for these classic piece is "Blanket Sleepers". Not a bad description considering in essence it is like walking around in a blanket fitted to your body.

Granted, these particular night-time garments are made for those still in elementary school meaning due to my 5'8'' frame I will be buying a children's XL (Super Sexy). None the less I am thrilled by the breadth and range of this season's options. Target alone has 13 styles to chose from. Which will make choosing by far be the hardest part. Luckily there are literally 5 targets within a 5 miles radius. Meaning I am confident Ashleigh will finally get her hands on that elusive Glow-in-the-Dark space ship onesie.

The Amazement

2008-11-06T13:01:00.000-08:00

I realize I am at least the millionth person to blog about this but I can't help it..... President Barack Obama. I'm still in shock. It's one of those things that you prepare for and talk about for such long time that when it actually happens you some how can't process the reality.

I'm thrilled, I know the US political system isn't designed for rapid and significant changes and the only times when that occurs us during times of crisis (which well face it we are close to). However, even though I am fully aware the Obama stump speeches won't magically be turned into reality overnight. I so excited that it happened at all.

Knowing that the motions happening around you will forever be a part of history is a surreal and incredible thing. I've experienced history-making moments before, but not ones I view as positive. Nov. 4, 2008 I pray, hope and believe will be a moment in history I look back on with pride and enthusiasm. I saved my GA vote sticker which I plan to keep forever and to show to my kids one day (if I ever have any). So they can take it to school with them when they do a project on the election I just lived through and voted in.

The Relief

2008-10-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

There is absolutely nothing better than when Friday comes early. That's right kids after 5:00 this afternoon I am done for the week. I am heading, to what I pray is a SUNNY, St. Simons for this year's battle of the titans, Georgia-Florida. This one is destined to be a doosy. Both teams have one loss, two of the best QBs in college football and a crowd full of jean shorts and frilly dresses.

I would like to spout about how the Bulldogs are simply going to pulverize the gators. But my roommate Ashleigh and I have learned to play The Expectations Game, even with college football.

The Expectations Game is quite simple: Keep your expectations low for outcomes and upcoming events and there are two possible outcomes:
A.) You receive the satisfaction of being right if the outcome/event is less than stellar
B.) You get the extra bonus of things being better than you anticipated
I realize this may seem like a negative out look on life. But we have found it is actually an essential part of the positive train Ashleigh and I have been riding lately. This way we are rarely to never disappointed.

As usual this post has gone of track, though I think the expectations game is important lesson. I simply wanted to reveal in my early release from the working world. Undoubtedly considering the well known theme of the Georgia-Florida game "The World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party". I am positive I will have fun stories from my long weekend (hopefully not too fun...)

The Good Days

2008-10-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

Alright the boyfriend did good. I am not at all difficult to figure out. I have a handful of things I really enjoy. Therefore, provide me with them in tandem and it'll will probably work out quite well.

For instance, due to my stint studying abroad in Italy, I love no other cuisine as much as authentic style Italian. Might I highly recommend Sotto Sotto for special occasions. The food was incredible. Our waiter was precious, with what I think was a Scottish accent. I asked for a suggestion...he then described the grouper dish as "Italian Comfort Food"... I was sold.

Not to mention the "chocolate soup" which is as delicious and simple as it sounds. A bowl of melted chocolate with croûtons and hazelnut whip cream, need I say more?

Now to what made our night truly spectacular.... Wicked. A show I tried to see both times I went to NYC and failed to do so.

Unprompted boyfriend knew taking me to see a mucisal, full-proof plan.

There is nothing better to me than political commentary guised in fantasy, particularly when you add a little song and dance (It's like Harry Potter meets musical).

The voices=incredible, the costumes=breath-taking, The acting=hysterical. So obviously I hated it.

Truly though, and I have heard it is a good bit different than the book, but I loved how they fit in all the elements of the original story. I can't help but feel for the righteous, social-outcast... taken down by politics and propoganda for standing up for what she believes in!

You go Elphaba!!

To wrap-it up... Thanks boyfriend.

The Realization

2008-10-23T06:35:00.000-07:00

I love those moments when reality hits you like a ton of bricks and says.... "Are you listening to yourself????" Completely inspired by my best friend Ashleigh Nicole Speir I have decided to take this blog back to its a original purpose. A place for me to process growing up and share positive insights I discover along the way, not whine and complain.

On her blog Ash started the thankfulness project, which simply involves her writing about what she is thankful for everyday. Simple but effective due to the fact that we love the same things in life and she is so darn witty.

Thanks to Ash, the 3 people out there reading this will no longer have to deal with my "dribble", as my Mom would call it. I am not exactly where I want to be professionally but I have an incredible life. I'd much rather brag about how good I have it than try and pretend like life is so rough I need to post my miserable existence on an online diary...No Ma'am.

So look forward to a new approach back to my roots: an over-analytical, sarcastic and surprisingly positive view of the world.

The boyfriend and I are celebrating our anniversary tonight (and yes, just the idea of me having an anniversary is unexpected, and flat-out weird). However, I have a feeling I will have a fun story or two from this evenings festivities.

The Never-Ending Questions

2008-10-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

I never liked math much. I was always decent at it, but found it boring. However, lately what I wouldn't give to deal in a world absolutes... 2+2=4. The subjective world of trying to figure out what will make you happy in life and balancing the good with the bad is exhausting.

I have this problem, to be blamed solely on my parents. I think too much. A part of my personality that is both a gift and curse. And I promise you, it is a family trait, check out my sister's blog "A Heart on a Wire" if you don't believe me. She is cursed with an over-analytical mind as well but luckily for her, she has the writing abilities to turn it into an art. I however just babble and vent. The unattractive symptom of this family trait that my friends, family and boyfriend have to suffer through...daily.

I promise there is a point to this blatant example of my problem.

I am currently working in public relations for various clients in the housing industry. Not a job I particular enjoy or feel remotely satisfied by. After about a day in my new job, I decided I hate PR and I want to teach. I want to feel like I am doing something in my job, making some type of an impact.

Also (and I realize online may not be the best medium to announce this) I don't like computers and the digital age of communication. At least not enough to sit in front of a computer for 8 hours a day mastering the use of Ctrl C and Ctrl V. I want to be up and moving, interacting with people. I want my job to be about the things I'm passionate about; people, politics, education. Therefore, day one into my first real PR job I decided I want to teach.

Now the only thing plaguing me, (besides finding a teaching job on a provisional basis in the middle of the semester) is do I want to teach because I'll be good at it, enjoy it and may even manage to do some good or am I just running away to what seems easiest? Everyone in my family teaches, another symptom of out over-active minds I suppose. Is that why I go straight to teaching, because its the quickest answer? I'd like to find a formula to simplify matters. Why doesn't life present it self in mathematical terms?

Teaching=Happiness... maybe

The Learning Process

2008-09-10T08:48:00.001-07:00

Every life change comes with it's lessons and every new adventure comes with those early awkward stages when things are little confusing and perhaps a bit overwhelming. And that is where I am right now.. a tad bit confused and overwhelmed.

As a part of my quest for a career in nonprofit work. I thought I'd take the obvious step of volunteering. I am officially a member of the PR committee for the CFF Atlanta Wine Tasting coming Nov. 19 I'm pretty sure this is going to be quite the event. Major Atlanta restaurants and wineries, the Atlanta social elite and a fancy new venue, Exciting Right?

Along with that excitement comes the realization that I am far from the social elite and up until the last few weeks had only been to one restaurant in Atlanta, Two Urban Licks (so good, by the way). Though I live in a house full of socially savvy PR girls rocking the world of restaurant and hospitality PR I myself know little to nothing on the subject. I have to go to my lovely roomies for ideas on what to do in our city when my bf makes it into town. Personally my idea of a thrilling night is Festivus... a night of fort building, bad movie marathons, crafting and possibly sliding down a tarp covered in paint (for instance).

This long soliloquy of complaints is really more of a declaration that I have got some learning to do. I have to dig down deep and see if there is a trendy social girl hidden under my layers of political geek who prefers to stay at home with her neurotic dog and awesome roommates.

The Original

2008-08-26T10:29:00.001-07:00

I suppose I should introduce myself, I'm Kate or Katie for those who have a preference (which seems to be everybody but me). I just graduated from UGA, meaning, like many I'm currently in a state of bewilderment and confusion....But I kind of like it. I am without question a geek and I say that only because I cried twice last night during the Democratic National Convention. I promise not to continue with the boring details of who I am. Hopefully, my quirks will subtly lay themselves out in the process of blogging.

However, those of you actually reading this... Hi Mom! Will have to handle one more life story update. I am job searching a long and painful process that I hope one day will end in my favor. I want to work in nonprofit communication/development (I cry at political conventions it's not that far of a stretch) and I'm determined that though I may take a non-traditional route in getting there, one day I will be able to align myself with those out there working too hard, getting paid too little, and loving every second of it.

That's it for today just an overview. My plan isn't to talk about myself this much, but I figured a little narcissism the first time out would be therapeutic. Please feel free to comment on whatever I say. I'm sarcastic and a tency-bit stubborn so I could probably use a little constructive criticism.