When I was student teaching in Fairbanks, I was pretty traumatized the day I ran into a student at the grocery store. She was one of those bitchy 13-year-olds, and this was long before I knew how to turn that attitude into self-esteem and loyalty. And, I had a cart full of alcohol. And condoms. Not full of condoms, but I had a boyfriend and we were ... intimate. Hm, I'd forgotten about him.
But this isn't about the ex-boyfriend who liked to drive with an open beer to sip from as he drove. (Our values did not mesh on several major issues.)
This is about the trauma I put my writing instructor through every time I run into her in the grocery store. Today was I think the third time. She was wiped out - it was a long day of arguments and I think she was sick. She wanted to grab something and get out as quickly as possible, and when I go to the grocery store, I'm all Louisiana - chatty and friendly and slow-paced. Which is funny, because she's the native Louisianan and I'm a recent transplant. But she saw me and I saw that trauma of "Oh damn, I have to be professional." Not that she's ever wild and crazy, but most people treat strangers and students differently.
I said, "Oh, you're done? How are you doing?" I could have stood and talked 20 minutes there, but that was saved for the guy behind me in the check-out line. I've really become a Southerner. But we kept it quick. The apex was, "You guys [how can she be a southerner feminist and say "you guys?!"] did really good. You did great." Seriously, the intonation was there, and I've never heard that before. I'm sure she was just tired and wanted me to go away.
But still, it's nice to hear because I won't get my grade for another month. The funny part during my oral argument was that the timekeeper (my teaching fellow, who has a real genuine friendliness that the instructor lacks because she's always too uptight) lost track of time because, "Oh, I was listening and got too interested and forgot!"
I wasn't great, but I think I was pretty good. I really do think that my experience with reluctant teenage learners could help me in my legal career. The Supreme Court gives tough hypotheticals to attorneys, but no tougher than a 13-year-old's "Why do I have to learn ALGEBRA?!"
I've always said that I'm *not* interested in litigation - and my main reasoning for that is that I don't like the combativeness, the competition of one winner and one loser. I've been interested in designing contracts and transactions that do NOT lead to litigation - that's one of my goals as an attorney. I like win-wins where everybody is happy, and I think that in most cases things can flow that way - and that's antithetical to litigation.
But I'll tell you, there might be something for me in trial and appellate work. I know how to work a classroom and I like it. A lot usually. Maybe I can just transfer that to working a jury and panel of judges.
Well, that's all in the future, but it's food for thought.
For now, I have a refrigerator stocked with very healthy foods. My suit was a bit tight today, and I need to lose weight to make it fit better.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
one class down
I finished my oral argument, making my Legal Research and Writing class officially OVER. I don't think I sucked TOO bad - I needed to organize better, but I'm quick at thinking on my feet so I think I handled the questions well. Yay - teaching does me some good!
Four classes to go. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can. And I'm wondering if my overfull life is causing some of my memory-learning problems - so I'm going to take it easy for the next month - fewer activities including the recreational ones. And I'm off to the grocery store now to stock up on lots of healthy food, now that Sabine is gone and I won't be eating out. I want to get to finals in good physical shape so I don't -
Agk - a beautiful jay of some sort I've never seen before just flew to right in my line of sight, as if beckoned. OK, so I won't give up on the birding! I didn't make it to a beginning birding thing this morning - I didn't want to be stressed about my argument, and sometimes it's really exhausting to walk so slowly with a group of people and keep staring up into the trees.
Anyway. Dayton finally emailed. They traveling to Liberia by car, which is quite dangerous because of all the "checkpoints" along the way. And, it can take about a week. So, please, everybody, starting April 7 be sending happy thoughts for him and Cece.
Four classes to go. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can. And I'm wondering if my overfull life is causing some of my memory-learning problems - so I'm going to take it easy for the next month - fewer activities including the recreational ones. And I'm off to the grocery store now to stock up on lots of healthy food, now that Sabine is gone and I won't be eating out. I want to get to finals in good physical shape so I don't -
Agk - a beautiful jay of some sort I've never seen before just flew to right in my line of sight, as if beckoned. OK, so I won't give up on the birding! I didn't make it to a beginning birding thing this morning - I didn't want to be stressed about my argument, and sometimes it's really exhausting to walk so slowly with a group of people and keep staring up into the trees.
Anyway. Dayton finally emailed. They traveling to Liberia by car, which is quite dangerous because of all the "checkpoints" along the way. And, it can take about a week. So, please, everybody, starting April 7 be sending happy thoughts for him and Cece.
Ew!
OK, no more talking or thinking about Pompous Ass Professor, and no more doing nice things for him. I dreamt about him last night. No, not erotic, but STILL - I don't want to dream about him! Ew!
Jessica has a crush on him, she freely admits, and I think a few others do - but I resolutely do NOT. Ew. Although, we were good comedy yesterday - the apex being him asking me a question and I saying, "Well, based on the tone of your voice, I'd say no." Laughter of students (though we've heard this joke before) and visiting potential students and parents. Lecture about not using his tone of voice as a gauge, since he's not reading the final to me. He asked the question again, this time with a really funny grimace on his face. "What do you think now?" he asked. "What about my tone of voice?" "Um, well, I'm trying to read that facial expression ..." "You might try to actually answer it from the material." "But then I'm not usually right." After class he thanked me and told me I did good. It makes it impossible for me to really not like him.
I also dreamt about Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (they are practically my neighbors after all) a few nights back. Maybe the warmer nights make more vivid dreams?
Unfortunately my brain hasn't been clearning at night like usual. Normally it's like pushing the reset button on my brain. But instead I wake up and it's foggy and filled with thoughts of whomever I dreamt of. I'm a little worried about it, really. I simply am unable to learn and memorize like I could a few years ago. I laugh it off and say oh, I like having a life better anyway - but the reality is that even if I tried to study hard enough to do better, my brain is like a leaden sieve now. It's frightening.
And maybe I'm dreaming about these people because in my dreams they are supportive and encouraging. Dayton, on the other hand, still has not made contact in more than a week, and his phone number no longer works. I'm extremely frustrated with him. I'm sure in his mind he's doing nothing wrong, but he can really be self-centered like the stereotypical only child. Ugh - MEN.
Jessica has a crush on him, she freely admits, and I think a few others do - but I resolutely do NOT. Ew. Although, we were good comedy yesterday - the apex being him asking me a question and I saying, "Well, based on the tone of your voice, I'd say no." Laughter of students (though we've heard this joke before) and visiting potential students and parents. Lecture about not using his tone of voice as a gauge, since he's not reading the final to me. He asked the question again, this time with a really funny grimace on his face. "What do you think now?" he asked. "What about my tone of voice?" "Um, well, I'm trying to read that facial expression ..." "You might try to actually answer it from the material." "But then I'm not usually right." After class he thanked me and told me I did good. It makes it impossible for me to really not like him.
I also dreamt about Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (they are practically my neighbors after all) a few nights back. Maybe the warmer nights make more vivid dreams?
Unfortunately my brain hasn't been clearning at night like usual. Normally it's like pushing the reset button on my brain. But instead I wake up and it's foggy and filled with thoughts of whomever I dreamt of. I'm a little worried about it, really. I simply am unable to learn and memorize like I could a few years ago. I laugh it off and say oh, I like having a life better anyway - but the reality is that even if I tried to study hard enough to do better, my brain is like a leaden sieve now. It's frightening.
And maybe I'm dreaming about these people because in my dreams they are supportive and encouraging. Dayton, on the other hand, still has not made contact in more than a week, and his phone number no longer works. I'm extremely frustrated with him. I'm sure in his mind he's doing nothing wrong, but he can really be self-centered like the stereotypical only child. Ugh - MEN.
Friday, March 30, 2007
it's like he's tormenting me
So, Pompous Ass Professor keeps telling us where he lives.
If only I wanted to stalk him, it would be so easy! And clearly he wants it.
Problem? He lives across the lake.
And even if he were the perfect stalkee, no one is worth the bridge.
If only I wanted to stalk him, it would be so easy! And clearly he wants it.
Problem? He lives across the lake.
And even if he were the perfect stalkee, no one is worth the bridge.
motivation?
Baking banana bran muffins, while tasy and nutritious, was not the smartest move on a warm day. I refuse to run my A/C still, so my front door is open to cool off the apartment (there's a breeze).
So, I was inspired to go water the plants for the first time in months.
Which led me to marvel on these fascinating red beetles. Again. I don't think I've ever seen them anywhere I lived before here, and they are interesting to me - and there are many, many in our front yard.
Which led me to start surfing the 'net looking for a name, and to email a classmate whose father is an entomologist.
Why, again, am I studying law instead of something in nature?
Oh yeah. The paycheck.
Sigh.
So, I was inspired to go water the plants for the first time in months.
Which led me to marvel on these fascinating red beetles. Again. I don't think I've ever seen them anywhere I lived before here, and they are interesting to me - and there are many, many in our front yard.
Which led me to start surfing the 'net looking for a name, and to email a classmate whose father is an entomologist.
Why, again, am I studying law instead of something in nature?
Oh yeah. The paycheck.
Sigh.
what are the chances?
So, I'm in limbo about my summer plans, as anybody reading this blog well knows.
There's Africa. A USAID internship I applied for and will hopefully hear about in the next couple weeks. Additionally, if that's where I really want to go there are a number of local NGOs I could volunteer with.
And there's New Orleans. I have a fierce loyalty to this funky little city, and don't really want to leave where I call home - not even for three months.
For Africa: Well, it's Africa. I love it there, I am always challenged and learn, and my help is needed in Liberia. Dayton and his family are there.
For New Orleans: I could make some money here, learn about law, make connections if I do stay here after graduation. Maybe even buy a house. Read a lot of books on my shelves to sell them, spend weekends out exploring. Relaxing. It's a lot of things in Africa, but it's not relaxing.
So, with this question always in mind, I approached my day. My career development officer said the vast majority of people get jobs here by knowing people and dropping names - which I got alerted to when the endocrinology nurse offered to hook me up at my last appointment, saying she has neighbor friends who are lawyers at big firms - which is probably more relevant after I graduate, or next year, but I thought it fascinating that she would offer that.
So, today. First, to my neighbor, whom I chatted with this morning when he brought up my trashcan from the curb, and who suggested a lawyer friend. I've heard of this lawyer before somehow. Second, I ran into a former student from my LSAT class who is a paralegal at the firm I went to about immigration issues (which I rejected because it would cost me $7,000). He said if a new immigration bill goes through, they will be SWAMPED with work and he'll check for me about getting a job there.
How freakin cool is that? I don't know if either of those leads will pan out, but I love the idea that I could show up to class, which happened to be the class shown to visiting prospective students, and where I sat I was chatting with said prospective students so my face was turned to the door (in a very large classroom) and so former LSAT student happened to see me and sit with me and we started chatting and the next thing I know it might turn into a job?
It's just hard for me to justify using connections. In this way, a high-context society, New Orleans is very much like Africa - it's all about who you know, not what you know. But I come from a staunchly low-context culture, where connections are never used. I was trained that I should be presented on strictly the basis of my merits - that's the background I come from. So, transitioning to a different mindset is uncomfortable.
The thing is that these are all people I genuinely like, and I'd be happy to hook them up however I can. I guess I've always been a high-context kind of girl in a way - I like introducing people who have things in common, making new connections. And I do like most people - I like meeting them and getting to know them.
So, I know I have been saying for months that I just want a job to happen without having to make any effort to get it - wouldn't it be funny if that happens!
There's Africa. A USAID internship I applied for and will hopefully hear about in the next couple weeks. Additionally, if that's where I really want to go there are a number of local NGOs I could volunteer with.
And there's New Orleans. I have a fierce loyalty to this funky little city, and don't really want to leave where I call home - not even for three months.
For Africa: Well, it's Africa. I love it there, I am always challenged and learn, and my help is needed in Liberia. Dayton and his family are there.
For New Orleans: I could make some money here, learn about law, make connections if I do stay here after graduation. Maybe even buy a house. Read a lot of books on my shelves to sell them, spend weekends out exploring. Relaxing. It's a lot of things in Africa, but it's not relaxing.
So, with this question always in mind, I approached my day. My career development officer said the vast majority of people get jobs here by knowing people and dropping names - which I got alerted to when the endocrinology nurse offered to hook me up at my last appointment, saying she has neighbor friends who are lawyers at big firms - which is probably more relevant after I graduate, or next year, but I thought it fascinating that she would offer that.
So, today. First, to my neighbor, whom I chatted with this morning when he brought up my trashcan from the curb, and who suggested a lawyer friend. I've heard of this lawyer before somehow. Second, I ran into a former student from my LSAT class who is a paralegal at the firm I went to about immigration issues (which I rejected because it would cost me $7,000). He said if a new immigration bill goes through, they will be SWAMPED with work and he'll check for me about getting a job there.
How freakin cool is that? I don't know if either of those leads will pan out, but I love the idea that I could show up to class, which happened to be the class shown to visiting prospective students, and where I sat I was chatting with said prospective students so my face was turned to the door (in a very large classroom) and so former LSAT student happened to see me and sit with me and we started chatting and the next thing I know it might turn into a job?
It's just hard for me to justify using connections. In this way, a high-context society, New Orleans is very much like Africa - it's all about who you know, not what you know. But I come from a staunchly low-context culture, where connections are never used. I was trained that I should be presented on strictly the basis of my merits - that's the background I come from. So, transitioning to a different mindset is uncomfortable.
The thing is that these are all people I genuinely like, and I'd be happy to hook them up however I can. I guess I've always been a high-context kind of girl in a way - I like introducing people who have things in common, making new connections. And I do like most people - I like meeting them and getting to know them.
So, I know I have been saying for months that I just want a job to happen without having to make any effort to get it - wouldn't it be funny if that happens!
But can that sled dog do the Heimlich?
Owner says dog saved her life by doing the Heimlich.
Gotta love dogs. Even selfish little Selma (come on, you know I love my dog, but her self-preservation instinct is strong) has sometimes been remarkable - screaming at me to get out of the water before getting stuck in mud flat (people die that way), letting me know when I'm about to run my face into a porcupine, letting me know general danger (bears, angry moose, and wild turkeys - ok, maybe that was about her tummy), all sorts of things. But my favorite still is when she dragged a baby out of danger by the diaper. If I hadn't seen it, I would never believe it.
Would she do the Heimlich? I could see her using it as an excuse to jump on my chest if I hadn't shared whatever I was eating. She does know that she's a dog, but that doesn't prevent her from having trained Susan's last roommate to cook Selma's favorite food for Selma (who knew Selma was all about the curries?).
If I can raise human children to have the same level of self-esteem as my dog, they will be ok.
Gotta love dogs. Even selfish little Selma (come on, you know I love my dog, but her self-preservation instinct is strong) has sometimes been remarkable - screaming at me to get out of the water before getting stuck in mud flat (people die that way), letting me know when I'm about to run my face into a porcupine, letting me know general danger (bears, angry moose, and wild turkeys - ok, maybe that was about her tummy), all sorts of things. But my favorite still is when she dragged a baby out of danger by the diaper. If I hadn't seen it, I would never believe it.
Would she do the Heimlich? I could see her using it as an excuse to jump on my chest if I hadn't shared whatever I was eating. She does know that she's a dog, but that doesn't prevent her from having trained Susan's last roommate to cook Selma's favorite food for Selma (who knew Selma was all about the curries?).
If I can raise human children to have the same level of self-esteem as my dog, they will be ok.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Iditarod
OK, so this post is really late.
Lance Mackey won the Iditarod!
OK, I don't know much about him - but he is an Alaskan (yay!) and a cancer survivor and married his high school sweetheart who is also a musher and they have four teenage kids and his father and brother both won the Iditarod and most of his sponsors were small local businesses and families.
Wow. And he won the Yukon Quest (the race I like best) four weeks before! Eight of the nine dogs finishing had run both races! That's amazing - that's 2100 miles in 40 days through really inclement weather - that's coast-to-coast down here. And he has no salivary glands (from the cancer) so didn't take time to eat much of the way because he has to chase food with water and it's too time-consuming. But clearly he took much better care of his dogs.
But the best is watch this video on his website. Watch the dog - too funny. Proud and sleepy.
Mushers amaze me - over and over. I am in awe.
Oh, I missed this (no news of Iditarod here in Louisiana) - Ramy Brooks beat ("spanked") his dogs and one died (though not from the beating). Clearly, that's messed up. But I think about all the people who abuse animals (and children) regularly with no consequences, and in contrast the vast majority of mushers treat their dogs very well (with the exception of people like those I knew in Elim who just didn't want to mush anymore so just stopped feeding their chained-up dogs and they all starved to death - again, they're not real mushers). How many dogs here die of obesity from lack of exercise and unhealthy food? From being lost, hit by traffic? From being killed because that cute puppy grew into a big dog and nobody wanted it? From being abandoned when its family fled a hurricane?
Dogs die. It's a fact of life, and with the dogs dying in the Iditarod, it's a lot like Jim Fixx dying. Athletes living and running hard until the heart stops.
Selma has a damn good life, but there are few things that give her the joy that I see in sled dogs every time they get hooked up to run. She would sometimes look at them jealously (and a little suspiciously), wondering what they were so worked up about. Barring swallowing another latex glove, she'll live a long life - she's already almost 13, and she's got a good number of years left in her. But would she cut that life in half to run her little heart out in a race? I guess I'll never know. But we all know that she'd leave me in a heartbeat if there's dry fish involved in the bargain.
Lance Mackey won the Iditarod!
OK, I don't know much about him - but he is an Alaskan (yay!) and a cancer survivor and married his high school sweetheart who is also a musher and they have four teenage kids and his father and brother both won the Iditarod and most of his sponsors were small local businesses and families.
Wow. And he won the Yukon Quest (the race I like best) four weeks before! Eight of the nine dogs finishing had run both races! That's amazing - that's 2100 miles in 40 days through really inclement weather - that's coast-to-coast down here. And he has no salivary glands (from the cancer) so didn't take time to eat much of the way because he has to chase food with water and it's too time-consuming. But clearly he took much better care of his dogs.
But the best is watch this video on his website. Watch the dog - too funny. Proud and sleepy.
Mushers amaze me - over and over. I am in awe.
Oh, I missed this (no news of Iditarod here in Louisiana) - Ramy Brooks beat ("spanked") his dogs and one died (though not from the beating). Clearly, that's messed up. But I think about all the people who abuse animals (and children) regularly with no consequences, and in contrast the vast majority of mushers treat their dogs very well (with the exception of people like those I knew in Elim who just didn't want to mush anymore so just stopped feeding their chained-up dogs and they all starved to death - again, they're not real mushers). How many dogs here die of obesity from lack of exercise and unhealthy food? From being lost, hit by traffic? From being killed because that cute puppy grew into a big dog and nobody wanted it? From being abandoned when its family fled a hurricane?
Dogs die. It's a fact of life, and with the dogs dying in the Iditarod, it's a lot like Jim Fixx dying. Athletes living and running hard until the heart stops.
Selma has a damn good life, but there are few things that give her the joy that I see in sled dogs every time they get hooked up to run. She would sometimes look at them jealously (and a little suspiciously), wondering what they were so worked up about. Barring swallowing another latex glove, she'll live a long life - she's already almost 13, and she's got a good number of years left in her. But would she cut that life in half to run her little heart out in a race? I guess I'll never know. But we all know that she'd leave me in a heartbeat if there's dry fish involved in the bargain.
Monday, March 26, 2007
law geek
For the first time since I began this adventure, something about law has really sparked my attention. Oh, don't get me wrong - I have plenty of mini-moments where I think, "Hm, really?" or "Oh, now I understand" or other baby steps on the road of legal understanding.
But this - oyez.org - simply rocked my world. I have to do an oral argument on my appellate brief this weekend, and the instructor told us the oyez.org site to listen to REAL-LIFE arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court. And they are TOTALLY COOL. First, the Supreme Court Justices are sometimes really funny, sometimes really sharp - and I like it when they gang up against attorneys who are trying to buffalo them. Lots of laugh out loud moments, and I'm pleased to know that they're smart cookies (though, I didn't hear Thomas speak - and from what I've read of his dissents, I have little respect for him).
Second, there are a TON of cases about schools - including a case in Juneau, Alaska, where the kids went outside to see the Olympic winter torch and a senior had a sign "Bong Hits 4 Jesus" and the principal ripped it out of his hands and suspended him for five days - when he quoted freedom of speech and Thomas Jefferson, she doubled it to ten days. I'm sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to hear how their decision comes out - does he have the freedom of speech in that situation? Another is about a district's policy to do what New Orleans schools DON'T - which is to have a (healthy to my mind) racial balance. FASCINATING!
So, I wrote my Constitutional Law professor about my newfound obsession, and what I would need to do in my career path to someday argue before the Supreme Court -and he responded that "arguing a case before the Supreme Court is a little like getting struck by lightning." He's written briefs for the Supreme Court, as a number of my profs have, but never gotten to argue. Kenneth Starr does all the darn time, that hog.
The prof said he'd be happy to talk in-depth with me about courses I can take that relate to this new interest of mine ... which sort of determines things for me about the International Development masters with a no. There are so many law courses I want to take about so many different things, so why limit those courses and spend my energies in Int'l Dev (which, from the current students I hear is frustrating and they don't learn much).
And, I want to stay here this summer. I want a nice little job with some nice little law firm where I do grunt work and learn a ton from the bottom-up, spending my evenings reading through my bookshelves and my weekends exploring the South, and a week or two in Liberia.
There, for today I know what I want. Now I need to make it happen. (Unfortunately, most of we 1L's are relegated to unpaid opportunities because, well, we don't really know much that's helpful.)
Just like I need to make my studying happen. Unfortunately I didn't get much sleep last night - apparently one cup of fully caffeinated coffee at 8 am is too much for my system to handle.
But this - oyez.org - simply rocked my world. I have to do an oral argument on my appellate brief this weekend, and the instructor told us the oyez.org site to listen to REAL-LIFE arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court. And they are TOTALLY COOL. First, the Supreme Court Justices are sometimes really funny, sometimes really sharp - and I like it when they gang up against attorneys who are trying to buffalo them. Lots of laugh out loud moments, and I'm pleased to know that they're smart cookies (though, I didn't hear Thomas speak - and from what I've read of his dissents, I have little respect for him).
Second, there are a TON of cases about schools - including a case in Juneau, Alaska, where the kids went outside to see the Olympic winter torch and a senior had a sign "Bong Hits 4 Jesus" and the principal ripped it out of his hands and suspended him for five days - when he quoted freedom of speech and Thomas Jefferson, she doubled it to ten days. I'm sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to hear how their decision comes out - does he have the freedom of speech in that situation? Another is about a district's policy to do what New Orleans schools DON'T - which is to have a (healthy to my mind) racial balance. FASCINATING!
So, I wrote my Constitutional Law professor about my newfound obsession, and what I would need to do in my career path to someday argue before the Supreme Court -and he responded that "arguing a case before the Supreme Court is a little like getting struck by lightning." He's written briefs for the Supreme Court, as a number of my profs have, but never gotten to argue. Kenneth Starr does all the darn time, that hog.
The prof said he'd be happy to talk in-depth with me about courses I can take that relate to this new interest of mine ... which sort of determines things for me about the International Development masters with a no. There are so many law courses I want to take about so many different things, so why limit those courses and spend my energies in Int'l Dev (which, from the current students I hear is frustrating and they don't learn much).
And, I want to stay here this summer. I want a nice little job with some nice little law firm where I do grunt work and learn a ton from the bottom-up, spending my evenings reading through my bookshelves and my weekends exploring the South, and a week or two in Liberia.
There, for today I know what I want. Now I need to make it happen. (Unfortunately, most of we 1L's are relegated to unpaid opportunities because, well, we don't really know much that's helpful.)
Just like I need to make my studying happen. Unfortunately I didn't get much sleep last night - apparently one cup of fully caffeinated coffee at 8 am is too much for my system to handle.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Habitat week
This has been my week for reconnecting with folks I met through my Habitat volunteering - Kim, Norwood, and now Keith & Netanya.
I took Sabine and Mike over to Chalmette for the Fiesta Islenos. It was ok - the paella wasn't great, though Sabine said the alligator sausage was quite good. We wandered around a bit - not much to see, but good music. I wandered to some ship models and learned a TON about oyster and shrimp boats - there were some oldtimers, a guy about my age (it pains me to say, as he looked firmly middle-aged), and a young kid, and they all do it regularly so I learned about the process. It was fascinating and worth the drive just for that. Then there was a guy selling cypress deck furniture and I fell in love with the porch swings and rockers which were really reasonably priced; got his card and once I'm settled I'll have to indulge in one. So, definitely a productive day.
Sabine and Mike (especially him) really appreciated the drive through upper and lower 9th ward and over into St. Bernard Parish. It's like the tour buses through there - there's a fine line between genuine compassion and wanting to understand vs. the voyeurism of tragedy. They definitely fall to the first side of the line. Things aren't as bad as when I first came a year ago and Tami drove me around, but they definitely don't look so great.
We went by Musicians' Village and it was really rewarding after the efforts there to see kids playing on the front porches! All those houses I worked on - finished! And others built up already. Very exciting.
But the best was driving past Keith and Netanya's house. Keith and I lost touch when he got real busy with student teaching and I with law school. I really meant to go over and help him with rebuilding their house but stuff happens. So I drove around until I saw his truck (didn't even recognize the house anymore) and knocked on the FEMA trailer door. Last time I was there, they'd moved to Metairie, so I was surprised when Netanya opened the door with the CUTEST 2-month-old Naomi.
Keith wasn't around but Netanya and I briefly caught up and she showed us the house - SO MUCH WORK has been done! He just got the sheetrock up! How exciting! And as much as I find the structural work fascinating, this is when I'm the most helpful - I can learn to tape, and I can help with painting and flooring for sure. Keith always was amazed at the exactness of my measurements, so hopefully I'll be able to figure out time to go help over there.
I know I have such fond memories of my time there and the people I met, but I really, really like the neighborhood. I love it that when I drive past everybody smiles and waves - kids playing outside, women standing talking, old men sitting on their porches. I pulled up and asked a neighbor who waved a question and the next thing I knew I was over checking out his great- great-grandnephew.
"Neighborhood" in New Orleans is usually a small area, and its makeup can shift dramatically from one block to the next. When Keith & Netanya live, they love it and feel safe, know all the homeowners, etc. Over a few blocks, maybe not so much - but they're only two blocks from Musicians' Village.
So, I'm going to ask them about housing there - either to rent or to buy. I would love for them to be my neighbors, and it's only 6 miles to school then which is a doable commute. (I wish I could move to Slidell, but 35 miles one way commute,and over that bridge, would KILL ME.) It feels like home there - and not just because Netanya is such a great cook and so welcoming. But it's a real neighborhood, where everybody knows each other and the kids all play outside together and everybody's looking out for each other. Where I can call out and ask her to keep an eye on the kids as I run to the store and does she need anything?
And then I could buy that porchswing/rocker and life would be complete.
I took Sabine and Mike over to Chalmette for the Fiesta Islenos. It was ok - the paella wasn't great, though Sabine said the alligator sausage was quite good. We wandered around a bit - not much to see, but good music. I wandered to some ship models and learned a TON about oyster and shrimp boats - there were some oldtimers, a guy about my age (it pains me to say, as he looked firmly middle-aged), and a young kid, and they all do it regularly so I learned about the process. It was fascinating and worth the drive just for that. Then there was a guy selling cypress deck furniture and I fell in love with the porch swings and rockers which were really reasonably priced; got his card and once I'm settled I'll have to indulge in one. So, definitely a productive day.
Sabine and Mike (especially him) really appreciated the drive through upper and lower 9th ward and over into St. Bernard Parish. It's like the tour buses through there - there's a fine line between genuine compassion and wanting to understand vs. the voyeurism of tragedy. They definitely fall to the first side of the line. Things aren't as bad as when I first came a year ago and Tami drove me around, but they definitely don't look so great.
We went by Musicians' Village and it was really rewarding after the efforts there to see kids playing on the front porches! All those houses I worked on - finished! And others built up already. Very exciting.
But the best was driving past Keith and Netanya's house. Keith and I lost touch when he got real busy with student teaching and I with law school. I really meant to go over and help him with rebuilding their house but stuff happens. So I drove around until I saw his truck (didn't even recognize the house anymore) and knocked on the FEMA trailer door. Last time I was there, they'd moved to Metairie, so I was surprised when Netanya opened the door with the CUTEST 2-month-old Naomi.
Keith wasn't around but Netanya and I briefly caught up and she showed us the house - SO MUCH WORK has been done! He just got the sheetrock up! How exciting! And as much as I find the structural work fascinating, this is when I'm the most helpful - I can learn to tape, and I can help with painting and flooring for sure. Keith always was amazed at the exactness of my measurements, so hopefully I'll be able to figure out time to go help over there.
I know I have such fond memories of my time there and the people I met, but I really, really like the neighborhood. I love it that when I drive past everybody smiles and waves - kids playing outside, women standing talking, old men sitting on their porches. I pulled up and asked a neighbor who waved a question and the next thing I knew I was over checking out his great- great-grandnephew.
"Neighborhood" in New Orleans is usually a small area, and its makeup can shift dramatically from one block to the next. When Keith & Netanya live, they love it and feel safe, know all the homeowners, etc. Over a few blocks, maybe not so much - but they're only two blocks from Musicians' Village.
So, I'm going to ask them about housing there - either to rent or to buy. I would love for them to be my neighbors, and it's only 6 miles to school then which is a doable commute. (I wish I could move to Slidell, but 35 miles one way commute,and over that bridge, would KILL ME.) It feels like home there - and not just because Netanya is such a great cook and so welcoming. But it's a real neighborhood, where everybody knows each other and the kids all play outside together and everybody's looking out for each other. Where I can call out and ask her to keep an eye on the kids as I run to the store and does she need anything?
And then I could buy that porchswing/rocker and life would be complete.
recaffeinated (and it feels so good)
I remembered that the whole point of decaffeinating and desugarizing was for the thyroid tests - to do my own little clinical study - not Catholic rituals. So now I know from last week's tests, when I was off caffeine/sugar for a month, my TSH was even lower (virtually undetectable) but my T3 and T4 are within normal ranges (maybe. I think the wrong tests were ordered) - which I think makes me subclinical and not in need of treatment.
I'll be tested again in about six weeks, so why wait until Easter to enjoy the bounty of the earth? Why not wait until I'm again someplace (Africa) where ironically enough people don't eat chocolate or drink coffee?
If the April-May tests show elevation of T3-T4, then I may have to make some serious lifestyle changes. I wonder if exercise helps? Hm ... well, hopefully I'm over the flu (though I haven't been able to get rid of this cough for months now) and can get down to the serious business of regular exercise. I'm doing a 10K in two weeks. Last finals, I got really bad about not exercising and eating high-cal junk to keep revved up, but I think this time I'll be better prepared and better able to stay focused. It's not like I sit around all day - I walk to school which adds up to at least 1.5 miles a day (usually significantly more) and use the stairs usually all the way up to that damn 6th floor several times a day. I keep wanting to do the early morning exercise classes with Ayanna, but everytime I plan for it something happens - I get sick or twist my ankle or something such. So, no more curses on that.
OK, so no caffeine or sugar - good reduction in T3. Let's see what introducing more serious exercise while reintroducing caffeine/sugar (in moderation) does. Also, I got a yoga DVD that I'll try to do regularly once I get it. I've never been able to really stand yoga, but maybe on my own it won't be so annoying. Something else I'll say - with no coffee/sugar for five weeks, my mood has been consistently good - no mood swings or funks. I don't always get much work done (like now), but I'm happy about it. It could be spring, but I'll see over the next month.
I'm tormented about this summer. If I stay here, then I really want to find a job and I really need to get on the ball with that RIGHT NOW. If I don't stay here, then I need to decide if I'll do the masters and do classes all summer or if I'll be in Liberia - in which case I probably need to get in contact with local NGO's RIGHT NOW so that Dayton considers my needs when finding housing. I'm really excited about Dayton returning to Liberia! I hope it all works out well for him.
I read about the DRCongo yesterday and the problems there (again - Joseph needs me), and I just want to jump on a plane. I love Africa, and traveling, and new experiences. But at the same time, I love being here. When I was in Cali, I wanted to travel all the time - as soon as I bought a house even, I went away. I did cool stuff there (esp Joshua Tree), but I always wanted to go away. But here, it reminds me more of being in Elim, where I'll miss stuff if I go away. Spending Christmas and summer breaks actually in Elim - those were my favorite times there. And here - I know that the summers are atrociously hot and humid and A/C will cost me a fortune, but there's so much great stuff to do here - and even just driving or walking down the streets is always an interesting adventure. And there are so, so many interesting things to do - every time I pick up the newspaper and look at the events I'm awed and amazed at what a vibrant and alive place this is - and how much of it interests me.
It's not that it interests me more than Liberia, but I know that a summer spent in Liberia will be a summer of frustrations and challenges - and not access to medical care. I would love to spend all that time with Dayton, but we'll have all that time here for the rest of our lives - and things are much less frustrating and challenging here. Maybe just going for a week to visit would be best.
But I resist that - I mean, that makes me sound, well, old and tired. Have I really lost my adventurous spirit that jumps at the opportunity to face challenges and frustrations head-on? Part of it though is that I will deliberately break Liberian mores and put Dayton in the line of fire, which he doesn't like. I won't conform to people's expectations when I disagree, and I can handle the fall-out just fine - but it's considerably harder on him there. I don't want to put him in a bad position, but I also won't put up with bullshit that he has a higher tolerance for.
Well, hopefully I can decide about it all next week when back in school.
I'll be tested again in about six weeks, so why wait until Easter to enjoy the bounty of the earth? Why not wait until I'm again someplace (Africa) where ironically enough people don't eat chocolate or drink coffee?
If the April-May tests show elevation of T3-T4, then I may have to make some serious lifestyle changes. I wonder if exercise helps? Hm ... well, hopefully I'm over the flu (though I haven't been able to get rid of this cough for months now) and can get down to the serious business of regular exercise. I'm doing a 10K in two weeks. Last finals, I got really bad about not exercising and eating high-cal junk to keep revved up, but I think this time I'll be better prepared and better able to stay focused. It's not like I sit around all day - I walk to school which adds up to at least 1.5 miles a day (usually significantly more) and use the stairs usually all the way up to that damn 6th floor several times a day. I keep wanting to do the early morning exercise classes with Ayanna, but everytime I plan for it something happens - I get sick or twist my ankle or something such. So, no more curses on that.
OK, so no caffeine or sugar - good reduction in T3. Let's see what introducing more serious exercise while reintroducing caffeine/sugar (in moderation) does. Also, I got a yoga DVD that I'll try to do regularly once I get it. I've never been able to really stand yoga, but maybe on my own it won't be so annoying. Something else I'll say - with no coffee/sugar for five weeks, my mood has been consistently good - no mood swings or funks. I don't always get much work done (like now), but I'm happy about it. It could be spring, but I'll see over the next month.
I'm tormented about this summer. If I stay here, then I really want to find a job and I really need to get on the ball with that RIGHT NOW. If I don't stay here, then I need to decide if I'll do the masters and do classes all summer or if I'll be in Liberia - in which case I probably need to get in contact with local NGO's RIGHT NOW so that Dayton considers my needs when finding housing. I'm really excited about Dayton returning to Liberia! I hope it all works out well for him.
I read about the DRCongo yesterday and the problems there (again - Joseph needs me), and I just want to jump on a plane. I love Africa, and traveling, and new experiences. But at the same time, I love being here. When I was in Cali, I wanted to travel all the time - as soon as I bought a house even, I went away. I did cool stuff there (esp Joshua Tree), but I always wanted to go away. But here, it reminds me more of being in Elim, where I'll miss stuff if I go away. Spending Christmas and summer breaks actually in Elim - those were my favorite times there. And here - I know that the summers are atrociously hot and humid and A/C will cost me a fortune, but there's so much great stuff to do here - and even just driving or walking down the streets is always an interesting adventure. And there are so, so many interesting things to do - every time I pick up the newspaper and look at the events I'm awed and amazed at what a vibrant and alive place this is - and how much of it interests me.
It's not that it interests me more than Liberia, but I know that a summer spent in Liberia will be a summer of frustrations and challenges - and not access to medical care. I would love to spend all that time with Dayton, but we'll have all that time here for the rest of our lives - and things are much less frustrating and challenging here. Maybe just going for a week to visit would be best.
But I resist that - I mean, that makes me sound, well, old and tired. Have I really lost my adventurous spirit that jumps at the opportunity to face challenges and frustrations head-on? Part of it though is that I will deliberately break Liberian mores and put Dayton in the line of fire, which he doesn't like. I won't conform to people's expectations when I disagree, and I can handle the fall-out just fine - but it's considerably harder on him there. I don't want to put him in a bad position, but I also won't put up with bullshit that he has a higher tolerance for.
Well, hopefully I can decide about it all next week when back in school.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
satfatoville
Picture this:
Dinner Friday: 1/2 pound of ground beef, with a large baked potato literally dripping with butter and sour cream.
Dinner Saturday: Muffuletta (large sandwich with olive salad, salami, mortodello, and cheese -and the half I got makes two meals).
Let's just say, my arteries may never forgive me. I usually eat well below the RDA of saturated fat, so my body isn't quite sure how to handle Sabine's visit. We had a lovely time at Port of Call last night, though I ate too much and that was uncomfortable. Sabine and Mike got sloshed, trying every drink on the menu, and had a good time.
Today I hit the ground running with chores and studying, then I went to meet Sabine and Mike in the French Quarter. Unfortunately my phone decided to stop working so I wandered around for two hours, shopping, until I got a signal again and coincidentally we were within 100 yards of each other (not that I have any concept of how far 100 yards is, but we were close). We darted into Central Grocery just before they closed - I've been craving the muffuletta with a vigor that makes me worry about the day I can't just drive to the Quarter to pick one up.
And I still have NO CLUE what to do this summer. Or if I should get the Master in International Development. Or if I should buy a house or just find a new apartment, and when. Or, or, or.
And I don't quite know how to tell my neighbor to turn off his A/C when he leaves. It's right by the only door/window I have that I can open (the only way I can get any fresh air) and it's so damn loud. And there's no need! Right now it's about 70 degrees outside - OPEN YOUR WINDOWS! I noticed that he had his front door open WHILE the A/C was running - and it only got up to about 80 today - I sure don't need the A/C for that. And that would be why my electricity bill is less than $40/month and his is well over $300/month. He said he was going to try to conserve energy - and this is how? It doesn't need to be 65 degrees in your apartment, especially when YOU'RE NOT THERE!
OK. Back to Parol Evidence Rule. Tonight's game is Uniform Commercial Code until blood flows from my eyes.
Dinner Friday: 1/2 pound of ground beef, with a large baked potato literally dripping with butter and sour cream.
Dinner Saturday: Muffuletta (large sandwich with olive salad, salami, mortodello, and cheese -and the half I got makes two meals).
Let's just say, my arteries may never forgive me. I usually eat well below the RDA of saturated fat, so my body isn't quite sure how to handle Sabine's visit. We had a lovely time at Port of Call last night, though I ate too much and that was uncomfortable. Sabine and Mike got sloshed, trying every drink on the menu, and had a good time.
Today I hit the ground running with chores and studying, then I went to meet Sabine and Mike in the French Quarter. Unfortunately my phone decided to stop working so I wandered around for two hours, shopping, until I got a signal again and coincidentally we were within 100 yards of each other (not that I have any concept of how far 100 yards is, but we were close). We darted into Central Grocery just before they closed - I've been craving the muffuletta with a vigor that makes me worry about the day I can't just drive to the Quarter to pick one up.
And I still have NO CLUE what to do this summer. Or if I should get the Master in International Development. Or if I should buy a house or just find a new apartment, and when. Or, or, or.
And I don't quite know how to tell my neighbor to turn off his A/C when he leaves. It's right by the only door/window I have that I can open (the only way I can get any fresh air) and it's so damn loud. And there's no need! Right now it's about 70 degrees outside - OPEN YOUR WINDOWS! I noticed that he had his front door open WHILE the A/C was running - and it only got up to about 80 today - I sure don't need the A/C for that. And that would be why my electricity bill is less than $40/month and his is well over $300/month. He said he was going to try to conserve energy - and this is how? It doesn't need to be 65 degrees in your apartment, especially when YOU'RE NOT THERE!
OK. Back to Parol Evidence Rule. Tonight's game is Uniform Commercial Code until blood flows from my eyes.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Sabine Day 3
I "studied" this morning (really I went to go get my lab results and search on-line for more information about my care - found some interesting stuff), then picked up Sabine and Mike. We headed out to Belle Chasse for lunch at L'il G's. I was disappointed, but I'm just not really all about the fried seafood. So, I didn't even order - just ate their seafood which worked out (and there were still leftovers).
Then we drove to the Town of Jean Lafitte and saw the puppet display of history while I talked to an oldtime local who told some great tales. Went to the Jean Lafitte Nature Study Center where I birdwatched on Saturday and it was beautiful - irises in bloom, and when we looked long enough a TON of alligators. Lots of anoles and I saw a snake, and no other people around - it was perfect.
Sabine's very favorite thing so far is still the crawfish at the place we went to on the way from the airport, and I think Mike's was the boardwalk today.
I dropped them off to cruise through Audubon Park and then Whole Foods, and I'll pick 'em up in a couple hours and we'll try Port of Call. It's always SO busy there, but I'm craving that sour cream on the potato now.
Then we drove to the Town of Jean Lafitte and saw the puppet display of history while I talked to an oldtime local who told some great tales. Went to the Jean Lafitte Nature Study Center where I birdwatched on Saturday and it was beautiful - irises in bloom, and when we looked long enough a TON of alligators. Lots of anoles and I saw a snake, and no other people around - it was perfect.
Sabine's very favorite thing so far is still the crawfish at the place we went to on the way from the airport, and I think Mike's was the boardwalk today.
I dropped them off to cruise through Audubon Park and then Whole Foods, and I'll pick 'em up in a couple hours and we'll try Port of Call. It's always SO busy there, but I'm craving that sour cream on the potato now.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Sabine Day 2
Early morning pick-up and we went to the Quarter. Found the National Park Service (419 Decatur) with a lovely courtyard and displays, and went on their free walking tour, which was quite good (though it avoided all talk of pirates and voodoo queens). Walked up the Moonwalk over to Jackson Square, saw some good old architecture on Dumaine, learned lots about the Mississippi River, the Battle of New Orleans and other history, and ended up at St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
We rushed over to Bennachin's to meet Ayanna for lunch. Ay and I have our system now - she gets the black-eyed peas and I get the spinach (both with rice and plantains) and we split 'em to share. Ah, food friends. I think Mike and Sabine were underwhelmed with the restaurant, but at least I have Ayanna. Jen - it is the new Templo, but not gross. :)
Then we headed over back to that cemetery because I wanted to see Marie Laveau's tomb. No voodoo here, though this guy there who kept following us and trying to guilt me into talking to him with really stupid, obnoxious cliches - he just about got a hex from me. When I'm walking away from you, do not follow me and shout after because you will NEVER get my attention unless it is to cause you serious bodily injury.
I left them then, with studying on my mind - but my headache returned, making me pretty pathetic. Pain reliever can take the edge off, but studying is still too painful. Once I'm over this flu, no more excuses.
Tomorrow - off to Lafitte for swamp viewing and Belle Chasse for more good eats. I really do want to like crawfish - and I find them quite tasty - but I'm with Tami - too gross. Besides, every time I eat shellfish I feel ill later. I'll try to stick with the fish tomorrow.
So, Dayton update: he plans to leave for Liberia on the 28th or 30th. Everybody send him good vibes, that everything goes smoothly. I think he's nervous and excited both, and he's been real fed up with Ghana for awhile - his life has just really been on hold there. Once he's settled there and has an address and a phone, I will FINALLY fax him the visa application forms and he'll mail them back to me and then the process will finally be started.
We rushed over to Bennachin's to meet Ayanna for lunch. Ay and I have our system now - she gets the black-eyed peas and I get the spinach (both with rice and plantains) and we split 'em to share. Ah, food friends. I think Mike and Sabine were underwhelmed with the restaurant, but at least I have Ayanna. Jen - it is the new Templo, but not gross. :)
Then we headed over back to that cemetery because I wanted to see Marie Laveau's tomb. No voodoo here, though this guy there who kept following us and trying to guilt me into talking to him with really stupid, obnoxious cliches - he just about got a hex from me. When I'm walking away from you, do not follow me and shout after because you will NEVER get my attention unless it is to cause you serious bodily injury.
I left them then, with studying on my mind - but my headache returned, making me pretty pathetic. Pain reliever can take the edge off, but studying is still too painful. Once I'm over this flu, no more excuses.
Tomorrow - off to Lafitte for swamp viewing and Belle Chasse for more good eats. I really do want to like crawfish - and I find them quite tasty - but I'm with Tami - too gross. Besides, every time I eat shellfish I feel ill later. I'll try to stick with the fish tomorrow.
So, Dayton update: he plans to leave for Liberia on the 28th or 30th. Everybody send him good vibes, that everything goes smoothly. I think he's nervous and excited both, and he's been real fed up with Ghana for awhile - his life has just really been on hold there. Once he's settled there and has an address and a phone, I will FINALLY fax him the visa application forms and he'll mail them back to me and then the process will finally be started.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Sabine Day 1
Sabine says there's a Muppet that says, "I came for the food."
That is our friend Sabine, to a T.
Fortunately, this is the place to come.
After spending the morning treating my hair to harsh chemicals and a hacking I'm skeptical of, I met Sabine and Mike at the airport. Somehow I missed the turn I know and ended up in Harahan. Hark, yonder crawfish climbeth into boiling pots. I took a sharp turn into a random seafood place and the next thing I know we had a huge plastic platter of crawfish before us.
Bite, suck - something like that. They look like roaches to me, and I could only manage a few. Yes, they are tasty tasty, but I try not to eat too many insects.
Sabine was in heaven. I'm a little worried that I can't top that experience for her in the next week, so I thought I'd really do a blow-out, so drove them to the French Quarter the long way down St. Charles (beautiful houses and beads in huge oak trees) and up to Cafe du Monde for beignets and cafe au lait. There was hardly any powdered sugar on the beignets, so I wasn't *really* breaking my vow.
Then we went to Sav-A-Center where only Sabine can find things like colored popping corn and 10 pound tubs of chittlins (which she didn't buy, going instead for the Tasso Ham and Andouille Sausage) and sweet potato pancake mix.
What we do the next seven days, I have no idea. That was the extent of my NOLA repertoire.
That is our friend Sabine, to a T.
Fortunately, this is the place to come.
After spending the morning treating my hair to harsh chemicals and a hacking I'm skeptical of, I met Sabine and Mike at the airport. Somehow I missed the turn I know and ended up in Harahan. Hark, yonder crawfish climbeth into boiling pots. I took a sharp turn into a random seafood place and the next thing I know we had a huge plastic platter of crawfish before us.
Bite, suck - something like that. They look like roaches to me, and I could only manage a few. Yes, they are tasty tasty, but I try not to eat too many insects.
Sabine was in heaven. I'm a little worried that I can't top that experience for her in the next week, so I thought I'd really do a blow-out, so drove them to the French Quarter the long way down St. Charles (beautiful houses and beads in huge oak trees) and up to Cafe du Monde for beignets and cafe au lait. There was hardly any powdered sugar on the beignets, so I wasn't *really* breaking my vow.
Then we went to Sav-A-Center where only Sabine can find things like colored popping corn and 10 pound tubs of chittlins (which she didn't buy, going instead for the Tasso Ham and Andouille Sausage) and sweet potato pancake mix.
What we do the next seven days, I have no idea. That was the extent of my NOLA repertoire.
AND, Tiff ...
And I like both Tiff and Rick! Somehow didn't include them on my list of couples whom I like both of. (Of course I like Tiff much better, since she has those cool Shazam stamps, hehe.)
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
free condoms
I rode up the elevator to the 3rd floor today to get my thyroid blood tests. It wasn't so much that the walk to the clinic wiped me out, which it did. It was more that I was afraid of the dizziness and metal/concrete stairwells. I suppose if I'm going to fall and crack my head open one of the best places to do it is in a health clinic, but it's not on my list of things to do today. Getting over this damn flu is.
I've never taken the elevator there before. A big sign at some office said, "Free Condoms" and then I noticed a candy bowl full of them.
[I hate condoms. I like them for other people, but not for me. But, the doctor said I'm not allowed to get pregnant with my thyroid like this, so I guess we're back on condoms.]
So I grabbed one of each kind, and I'll be back.
It's all part of my plan to get my money's worth. Also in the elevator was a woman who needed directions to the women's health clinic. She was probably about my age and was bitter that the university wouldn't allow her to decline health insurance. No, she didn't have any other insurance. I gotta wonder what she's thinking, and I'm glad that universities force insurance on people.
But I chatted up the lab tech and she said that the health insurance doesn't cover STD tests unless there are obvious symptoms. That is the stupidest thing I've heard. Most STDs don't show symptoms, especially in women, and the only way to avoid some possible serious damage is early treatment. Instead of encouraging that responsibility, it's punished with steep price tags. Even with my HPV, it would have cost a lot of money to get tested for it - even though less than a year ago I tested positive for one that is likely to end in cervical cancer, the insurance wouldn't cover it. Crazy. And in general, I'm less than thrilled with the women's health because of other things they didn't test for - in part because I'm 20 years older than their typical patient.
But overall, the health care I've received so far has probably saved me what I paid in premiums plus what that woman on the elevator paid (my deductible for the $200 bone density test was only $20 - I heart insurance). Plus I have the benefit of knowing that I'm covered in case of emergency.
Though, that's not always enough. Kim's daughter got a very bad infection in high school and was hospitalized for about a month because of it, and Kim had to pay $25,000 - the insurance covered almost $300,000, but still that's a lot for her to pay out of pocket.
That's a lot of condoms. I better go back every day to fill my pockets.
I've never taken the elevator there before. A big sign at some office said, "Free Condoms" and then I noticed a candy bowl full of them.
[I hate condoms. I like them for other people, but not for me. But, the doctor said I'm not allowed to get pregnant with my thyroid like this, so I guess we're back on condoms.]
So I grabbed one of each kind, and I'll be back.
It's all part of my plan to get my money's worth. Also in the elevator was a woman who needed directions to the women's health clinic. She was probably about my age and was bitter that the university wouldn't allow her to decline health insurance. No, she didn't have any other insurance. I gotta wonder what she's thinking, and I'm glad that universities force insurance on people.
But I chatted up the lab tech and she said that the health insurance doesn't cover STD tests unless there are obvious symptoms. That is the stupidest thing I've heard. Most STDs don't show symptoms, especially in women, and the only way to avoid some possible serious damage is early treatment. Instead of encouraging that responsibility, it's punished with steep price tags. Even with my HPV, it would have cost a lot of money to get tested for it - even though less than a year ago I tested positive for one that is likely to end in cervical cancer, the insurance wouldn't cover it. Crazy. And in general, I'm less than thrilled with the women's health because of other things they didn't test for - in part because I'm 20 years older than their typical patient.
But overall, the health care I've received so far has probably saved me what I paid in premiums plus what that woman on the elevator paid (my deductible for the $200 bone density test was only $20 - I heart insurance). Plus I have the benefit of knowing that I'm covered in case of emergency.
Though, that's not always enough. Kim's daughter got a very bad infection in high school and was hospitalized for about a month because of it, and Kim had to pay $25,000 - the insurance covered almost $300,000, but still that's a lot for her to pay out of pocket.
That's a lot of condoms. I better go back every day to fill my pockets.
Monday, March 19, 2007
move? stay? a little? a lot? host, guest
In case I haven't made it clear over and over: I LOVE NEW ORLEANS. I love the South. I love it here.
So, just to confuse and confound, I'll announce a very preliminary very iffy idea that has arisen: transferring to a Pacific Northwest state university. Where, it so happens, my Selma girl resides. And she ain't gettin any younger (she'll be 13 soon).
Ever since Kamaria told me she's thinking about transferring, there's been a little nudge of it. Maybe I'm just co-dependent - if she goes, then I go.
But of course not - it's much more than that. I just emailed Tami teasing if she's the pregnant one, then why am I the nesting one?
Because I am. Because plans are that I'll be a mother in the not-too-distant future. And as much as I love, love, love New Orleans - I don't see it as good for kids. Not right now, post-Katrina, and not with my economic situation. But on the other side of the continent, there are good public schools (and for me it's more about politics than money), and parks with ground that isn't toxic, and houses with yards. It's less interesting and musical and colorful there, but chances of being shot are significantly less.
I am SO over the west coast, and I would never consider moving back there if not for this.
But - Lara said she'd be my nanny if I moved back. :)
I don't know. So preliminary. I'll wait until I feel better before doing anything. It's not THAT much cheaper (though living costs are significantly less), and I think it's a fair less amount of prestige. Far fewer connections to high-fallutin major city firms that pay the big bank.
But didn't I just say that's not what I want, a big firm life? That I want to take time to smell the flowers and scope out the birds? The Pacific Northwest is good for that. If you can ever see though that damn rain and the glare off all the white people.
Oh. Damn. I just looked at that school's employment statistics - and the median starting salary out of school is LESS than I made as a teacher - and I'd still be carrying like $100,000 in debt. Damn. The HIGHEST salary in the same town is $52,000, which is less than I made teaching. I'd be so screwed. In contrast, where I currently am, starting salary is $83,000 average for entire class, $96,356 for private firms.
Hm. Stay where I am in a place I love, not deal with the hassle of applications and transferring, and probably make about twice the money? My writing instructor suggested I consider working at a big firm for just two years - enough to make a wad of cash and pay off bills, and then walk away (that's what she did). Of course that sounds like a damn long time to not have a life, but maybe it's what I need to do (if I can get hired, of course).
So, Mobile was fun. It was a little disorienting to be in a city that was actually functioning. We stuck to suburbia, where Kim lives. But I see now that there are ton of birding and estuary-oriented type of activities there. It was beautiful there - especially when I drove right on past Mobile, past Spanish Fort (looking around too much to notice exit signs). Next time, we'll drive to Florida and chillax on the beach - I wasn't up for that. Heck, I wasn't up for much of anything (I still feel really sick), so we watched Jet Li's Fearless. It was just fun to see Kim and catch up. It's only 144 miles from here, and it's a straight direct route - not too many bad bridges. Wish I had more spare time to spend over there. Sabine used to joke that her house was Eva's country house and Eva's apartment was Sabine's beach house. Kim and Norwood both really impressed upon me that I'm welcome any time - hope they know what they're getting into by being hospitable! But it really did feel like a "get away." And Kim's big plans of next time spending a weekend on the beach - that would be quite a vacation, even if just a weekend.
I wonder ... if I could find a job in Mobile this summer. There's no law school there. I wonder if I could stay in Kim's spare bedroom for a couple months. Hm. Maybe I'll look into that. Her place is sweet - three times the size of mine for significantly less money. I wouldn't want to impose on her, but we could have lots of fun girl time if I was living there.
Norwood set up her apartment, decorating it all very nicely. The best - she has this huge bed and he set it up so with the flip of the switch you have Barry-Whiteesque type of music and red light emanating up and around it. TOO FUNNY. I said I'm sending Dayton to him for romance lessons. And construction lessons - I stopped by his house today (yeah, I said I'm sick, so I SHOULD be staying in bed but I can't be bothered) and it's looking great. It's been really interesting to see it develop since we met - wish I'd been able to help him along the way.
Ugh. I just got email from Sabine's boy - he's so annoying sometimes. I hold my tongue because I don't think he's malicious or untrustworthy - I just find him vexing. I really wish SHE were coming alone. I don't always not like my friends' partners - I like Kim and Norwood, Tami and Ahmed. Even people I knew first - I like Stephen for Amy, Sadie for Lara, and I liked Sylvia for Michele (long over, I know, but I still liked her). I think usually I like most of my friends' people. I just don't really like him. And no matter how polite I am, he can sense it and it makes him even more annoying. He's just not funny and he tries too hard. So, I"ll end up feeling guilty because I won't be able to spend much time with them (I'm even further behind now - my head and eyes hurt far too much to get any work done) and won't want to (if he is true to form). Well, it will be a nice romantic getaway for them, and I'm a third wheel anyway.
So, just to confuse and confound, I'll announce a very preliminary very iffy idea that has arisen: transferring to a Pacific Northwest state university. Where, it so happens, my Selma girl resides. And she ain't gettin any younger (she'll be 13 soon).
Ever since Kamaria told me she's thinking about transferring, there's been a little nudge of it. Maybe I'm just co-dependent - if she goes, then I go.
But of course not - it's much more than that. I just emailed Tami teasing if she's the pregnant one, then why am I the nesting one?
Because I am. Because plans are that I'll be a mother in the not-too-distant future. And as much as I love, love, love New Orleans - I don't see it as good for kids. Not right now, post-Katrina, and not with my economic situation. But on the other side of the continent, there are good public schools (and for me it's more about politics than money), and parks with ground that isn't toxic, and houses with yards. It's less interesting and musical and colorful there, but chances of being shot are significantly less.
I am SO over the west coast, and I would never consider moving back there if not for this.
But - Lara said she'd be my nanny if I moved back. :)
I don't know. So preliminary. I'll wait until I feel better before doing anything. It's not THAT much cheaper (though living costs are significantly less), and I think it's a fair less amount of prestige. Far fewer connections to high-fallutin major city firms that pay the big bank.
But didn't I just say that's not what I want, a big firm life? That I want to take time to smell the flowers and scope out the birds? The Pacific Northwest is good for that. If you can ever see though that damn rain and the glare off all the white people.
Oh. Damn. I just looked at that school's employment statistics - and the median starting salary out of school is LESS than I made as a teacher - and I'd still be carrying like $100,000 in debt. Damn. The HIGHEST salary in the same town is $52,000, which is less than I made teaching. I'd be so screwed. In contrast, where I currently am, starting salary is $83,000 average for entire class, $96,356 for private firms.
Hm. Stay where I am in a place I love, not deal with the hassle of applications and transferring, and probably make about twice the money? My writing instructor suggested I consider working at a big firm for just two years - enough to make a wad of cash and pay off bills, and then walk away (that's what she did). Of course that sounds like a damn long time to not have a life, but maybe it's what I need to do (if I can get hired, of course).
So, Mobile was fun. It was a little disorienting to be in a city that was actually functioning. We stuck to suburbia, where Kim lives. But I see now that there are ton of birding and estuary-oriented type of activities there. It was beautiful there - especially when I drove right on past Mobile, past Spanish Fort (looking around too much to notice exit signs). Next time, we'll drive to Florida and chillax on the beach - I wasn't up for that. Heck, I wasn't up for much of anything (I still feel really sick), so we watched Jet Li's Fearless. It was just fun to see Kim and catch up. It's only 144 miles from here, and it's a straight direct route - not too many bad bridges. Wish I had more spare time to spend over there. Sabine used to joke that her house was Eva's country house and Eva's apartment was Sabine's beach house. Kim and Norwood both really impressed upon me that I'm welcome any time - hope they know what they're getting into by being hospitable! But it really did feel like a "get away." And Kim's big plans of next time spending a weekend on the beach - that would be quite a vacation, even if just a weekend.
I wonder ... if I could find a job in Mobile this summer. There's no law school there. I wonder if I could stay in Kim's spare bedroom for a couple months. Hm. Maybe I'll look into that. Her place is sweet - three times the size of mine for significantly less money. I wouldn't want to impose on her, but we could have lots of fun girl time if I was living there.
Norwood set up her apartment, decorating it all very nicely. The best - she has this huge bed and he set it up so with the flip of the switch you have Barry-Whiteesque type of music and red light emanating up and around it. TOO FUNNY. I said I'm sending Dayton to him for romance lessons. And construction lessons - I stopped by his house today (yeah, I said I'm sick, so I SHOULD be staying in bed but I can't be bothered) and it's looking great. It's been really interesting to see it develop since we met - wish I'd been able to help him along the way.
Ugh. I just got email from Sabine's boy - he's so annoying sometimes. I hold my tongue because I don't think he's malicious or untrustworthy - I just find him vexing. I really wish SHE were coming alone. I don't always not like my friends' partners - I like Kim and Norwood, Tami and Ahmed. Even people I knew first - I like Stephen for Amy, Sadie for Lara, and I liked Sylvia for Michele (long over, I know, but I still liked her). I think usually I like most of my friends' people. I just don't really like him. And no matter how polite I am, he can sense it and it makes him even more annoying. He's just not funny and he tries too hard. So, I"ll end up feeling guilty because I won't be able to spend much time with them (I'm even further behind now - my head and eyes hurt far too much to get any work done) and won't want to (if he is true to form). Well, it will be a nice romantic getaway for them, and I'm a third wheel anyway.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
save lives, Youssou approves
Malariacontrol.net needs your downtime. "Simulation models of the transmission dynamics and health effects of malaria are an important tool for malaria control." They need lots and lots of computers for analysis. If you download the program, your computer can do some of the analysis when you aren't using it.
Help important malaria research. Plus, Youssou N'Dour approves (check out his short video clip on the website).
(Of course I'm a hypochondriac when I'm sick - and when I have a fever, chills, aches, headache, and nauseau - I think malaria. This paragraph from Wikipedia doesn't help:
"The discovery of this latent form of the parasite finally explained why people could appear to be cured of malaria but still relapse years after the parasite had disappeared from their bloodstreams."
So, yeah, if I'm not better by Monday, I'll go in and say to the doctor that I need a malaria test. Fortunately they already know I'm weird.)
Help important malaria research. Plus, Youssou N'Dour approves (check out his short video clip on the website).
(Of course I'm a hypochondriac when I'm sick - and when I have a fever, chills, aches, headache, and nauseau - I think malaria. This paragraph from Wikipedia doesn't help:
"The discovery of this latent form of the parasite finally explained why people could appear to be cured of malaria but still relapse years after the parasite had disappeared from their bloodstreams."
So, yeah, if I'm not better by Monday, I'll go in and say to the doctor that I need a malaria test. Fortunately they already know I'm weird.)
bayou images
For those of you who've never been on the bayou, here are some pics to help imagine it. I didn't take any myself because I feel I can't really capture it - but here's a reasonable attempt.
And one of my favorite sightings today, which I almost forgot to mention - green anoles! I do love the herptiles - they make my day.
And one of my favorite sightings today, which I almost forgot to mention - green anoles! I do love the herptiles - they make my day. parula paradise
Birding this morning was awesome - outside the City of Jean Lafitte (complete with a tourism center which is all automatic puppets of the Pirate Lafitte's alleged deeds) at a boardwalk on a bayou between an elementary school and a dump station (for those of you who've never hauled your own trash - that's where you take it when you don't have those big trucks coming for it every week). Everybody else out there was local, doing their exercise three times around the boardwalk - it's a GREAT place out there on the bayou, with all the cypress knees and general swampiness. I very proudly saw and identified a cardinal (yeah, those are tough), and confirmed a Phoebe sighting (I'm used to the Black Phoebes, one of my favorite birds, but these Eastern Phoebes were similar in shape and song). (Not that I am good with birdsongs AT ALL. But I wish I were.)
But almost everything else was new to me - some I've never heard of before. Parula? Never seen one of those on the tundra. And every time I'd look it up in the guidebook - yup, sure enough, no habitat where I've lived before.
Among my favorite sightings were two alligators in the bayou and three large turtles on an opposite bank who were sunning themselves in a military-style row.
Other birds seen (that I remember): anhinga, bluebirds, tufted titmouse, female red-winged blackbirds, red-shouldered hawk, white ibis, chickadee, swamp sparrows, starlings (boo-hiss!), mockingbirds (in the parking lot), turkey and black vultures, golden-crowned and ruby-crowned kinglets (they're so cute and nervous - they flutter almost like hummingbirds), blue-headed vireo, yellow-rumped and yellow-throated and prothonotary warblers.
The group I was with was really knowledgeable, and they were willing to help out a novice like me. Thanks Crescent Bird Club!
Unfortunately I feel like hell so won't make the parade today (little sleep last night, headache, backache, vomiting this morning, nasty cough and general malaise). I'll try to rest up today so that I can still go to Alabama tomorrow - and if I don't get better, well, Kim's a nurse so it's probably about the best place I could be! :)
Friday, March 16, 2007
hospitality redux
Yay! I have an excuse to not cross the bridge tomorrow!
So I planned to continue my list of a million things to do and go to Target. But then I didn't really feel like it and something kept telling me to go to the grocery store instead.
So I did and ran into a classmate and his wife who invited me over to watch the St. Patrick's Day parade tomorrow (actually he'd tried to invite me before but I missed the social cues). I read about it in the paper and thought it sounded fun, and a friend emailed saying which float she'd be riding on and to shout out to her, but honestly I planned to skip it because ... well, it's LENT, PEOPLE. Mardi Gras is OVER. But, this is New Orleans and the fun never really stops.
And classmate's wife said, "Oh, it'll be ok for you to drive over the causeway as long as it's not windy." So I stepped outside the store and the wind was so strong it nearly ripped the cart out of my hands.
South it is - which is actually better with the new parade plans because it starts earlier and is a little closer. I still have to cross a bridge, but it's not 28 miles long because it's over a river (and through the woods) rather than over that damn lake. Of course if I get that "It's a good day to die" vibe, I'm staying home. Cardinals be damned.
So I planned to continue my list of a million things to do and go to Target. But then I didn't really feel like it and something kept telling me to go to the grocery store instead.
So I did and ran into a classmate and his wife who invited me over to watch the St. Patrick's Day parade tomorrow (actually he'd tried to invite me before but I missed the social cues). I read about it in the paper and thought it sounded fun, and a friend emailed saying which float she'd be riding on and to shout out to her, but honestly I planned to skip it because ... well, it's LENT, PEOPLE. Mardi Gras is OVER. But, this is New Orleans and the fun never really stops.
And classmate's wife said, "Oh, it'll be ok for you to drive over the causeway as long as it's not windy." So I stepped outside the store and the wind was so strong it nearly ripped the cart out of my hands.
South it is - which is actually better with the new parade plans because it starts earlier and is a little closer. I still have to cross a bridge, but it's not 28 miles long because it's over a river (and through the woods) rather than over that damn lake. Of course if I get that "It's a good day to die" vibe, I'm staying home. Cardinals be damned.
here's why I love the South
I just called Kim to confirm that I'm coming over to Mobile (yes, Alabama) on Sunday, and she asked, "You plannin on stayin the whole time?"
"Excuse me?"
"Your whole spring break?"
Now THAT is some hospitality. When I said I was just coming for the day, she said, "Well at least you could stay the night!"
Kim and I met volunteering through Habitat when I first got here, and we bonded over circular saws. She was here for her vacation from nursing school, helping "her man" Norwood (they've been together forever, having even grandchildren together) with his sweat equity hours for Habitat.
They're good people. I'm not sure that Kim was expecting me to agree to visit when she told me months ago that she was moving into a bigger place - but that just shows she doesn't know me. And that she's a trained chef - that sure doesn't hurt (her first question: what would you like to eat?)
Hospitality rocks the South.
Now I just have to figure out which bird watching adventure to go on tomorrow - to the south in Lafitte (which I've heard is really lovely, and it's on my way to the migratory bird festival in a few weeks) or to the north outside Madisonville (which would make me cross the 28-mile causeway [oh, my heart rate just radically accelerated thinking of that horror] AND I could swing by nearby Covington to get me some of those awesome Ariat Fatbaby boots).
Life is pretty damn grand when the worst dilemmas of my weekend are which direction to drive to enjoy nature and what I want to eat when visiting a friend two states over in the hospitable South. I already got six errands done on a fine start to a productive spring break (amazing the energy I have after Popeye's chicken strips).
It ain't Africa, but it'll do.
"Excuse me?"
"Your whole spring break?"
Now THAT is some hospitality. When I said I was just coming for the day, she said, "Well at least you could stay the night!"
Kim and I met volunteering through Habitat when I first got here, and we bonded over circular saws. She was here for her vacation from nursing school, helping "her man" Norwood (they've been together forever, having even grandchildren together) with his sweat equity hours for Habitat.
They're good people. I'm not sure that Kim was expecting me to agree to visit when she told me months ago that she was moving into a bigger place - but that just shows she doesn't know me. And that she's a trained chef - that sure doesn't hurt (her first question: what would you like to eat?)
Hospitality rocks the South.
Now I just have to figure out which bird watching adventure to go on tomorrow - to the south in Lafitte (which I've heard is really lovely, and it's on my way to the migratory bird festival in a few weeks) or to the north outside Madisonville (which would make me cross the 28-mile causeway [oh, my heart rate just radically accelerated thinking of that horror] AND I could swing by nearby Covington to get me some of those awesome Ariat Fatbaby boots).
Life is pretty damn grand when the worst dilemmas of my weekend are which direction to drive to enjoy nature and what I want to eat when visiting a friend two states over in the hospitable South. I already got six errands done on a fine start to a productive spring break (amazing the energy I have after Popeye's chicken strips).
It ain't Africa, but it'll do.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
turning out fine
This morning when I woke up at 6:00 it was raining HARD. I thought how much I did NOT want to get out of bed to drive to the damn dealership. It's been 8 damn months since my last oil change and I saw corrosion on the battery.
But the rain slowed and I slowly dragged myself out of bed.
And it was good. I'm getting a spankin-brand new radio worth $1,200 for free (finally, my extended warranty pays off), my truck's all set for a weekend of birding and Alabama, I had an interesting chat with the shuttle driver about race in New Orleans, and I got to spend most of the afternoon with Kamaria (whom I hardly ever see now because she skips class so much).
Sometimes, things look bad and they turn out good.
I wish I were leaving tomorrow for Africa. Lots of other people are leaving and I'm not. OK, so they're going to Florida and Mississippi and Philadelphia - not any places that I want to go. What I tell myself is that I've spent - and will continue to spend - more time throughout this semester than a spring break would be on vacation-oriented activities. That instead of needing a break, I can catch up now on all the learning I haven't done yet. That summer is less than two months away which will pass oh so quickly in a blur of classes and weekend excursions and frantic studying and review sessions and exams. Exams start in about six weeks, and I'm so far from ready it's like the unexplored continent.
And I'm tired - for some reason the people behind me and the people across the street have decided to party hard all night long, and I"m behind on sleep - it sucks, and I think I'm getting sick.
This whole coffee-free lifestyle - it's overrated. I've been having the STRONGEST cravings lately, and I've gone ahead and gotten decaf two days in a row now. Sucks.
And I still have no EFFING clue about summer. Here are my options:
1. Go to Liberia half the summer, summer school law school abroad half the summer.
2. Go to Liberia half, summer school in NOLA half.
3. Liberia half, international development program summer school half (probably the best option if I decide to get the Int'l Dev MS).
4. Law school summer school half, int'l dev program summer school half.
5. Try to find a job here for the whole summer (what Dayton would vote for).
6. Liberia or summer school half the summer, half the summer kickin it here and volunteering (finish pro bono requirement).
7. Whole summer kickin it here and volunteering (the best option if I buy a house) and short trips to visit friends.
8. Combine summer school or Liberia with an intensive French course. In France this time. To actually learn French.
When I asked the university doctor, she said that there's no way she would go to remote Africa with my condition. I'm still opposed to permanent treatments, but she said she'd definitely then recommend that I be on medication.
But I look at the medication side effects, and they scare me more than the possibility of thyroid storm - possible white blood cell depletion (leaving me very vulnerable to serious infection), liver damage - those are just the highlights. I don't want to be in Liberia and have either of those problems any more than I'd want to be there and thyroid storm.
Maybe I'll just stay here on my couch for three solid months.
But the rain slowed and I slowly dragged myself out of bed.
And it was good. I'm getting a spankin-brand new radio worth $1,200 for free (finally, my extended warranty pays off), my truck's all set for a weekend of birding and Alabama, I had an interesting chat with the shuttle driver about race in New Orleans, and I got to spend most of the afternoon with Kamaria (whom I hardly ever see now because she skips class so much).
Sometimes, things look bad and they turn out good.
I wish I were leaving tomorrow for Africa. Lots of other people are leaving and I'm not. OK, so they're going to Florida and Mississippi and Philadelphia - not any places that I want to go. What I tell myself is that I've spent - and will continue to spend - more time throughout this semester than a spring break would be on vacation-oriented activities. That instead of needing a break, I can catch up now on all the learning I haven't done yet. That summer is less than two months away which will pass oh so quickly in a blur of classes and weekend excursions and frantic studying and review sessions and exams. Exams start in about six weeks, and I'm so far from ready it's like the unexplored continent.
And I'm tired - for some reason the people behind me and the people across the street have decided to party hard all night long, and I"m behind on sleep - it sucks, and I think I'm getting sick.
This whole coffee-free lifestyle - it's overrated. I've been having the STRONGEST cravings lately, and I've gone ahead and gotten decaf two days in a row now. Sucks.
And I still have no EFFING clue about summer. Here are my options:
1. Go to Liberia half the summer, summer school law school abroad half the summer.
2. Go to Liberia half, summer school in NOLA half.
3. Liberia half, international development program summer school half (probably the best option if I decide to get the Int'l Dev MS).
4. Law school summer school half, int'l dev program summer school half.
5. Try to find a job here for the whole summer (what Dayton would vote for).
6. Liberia or summer school half the summer, half the summer kickin it here and volunteering (finish pro bono requirement).
7. Whole summer kickin it here and volunteering (the best option if I buy a house) and short trips to visit friends.
8. Combine summer school or Liberia with an intensive French course. In France this time. To actually learn French.
When I asked the university doctor, she said that there's no way she would go to remote Africa with my condition. I'm still opposed to permanent treatments, but she said she'd definitely then recommend that I be on medication.
But I look at the medication side effects, and they scare me more than the possibility of thyroid storm - possible white blood cell depletion (leaving me very vulnerable to serious infection), liver damage - those are just the highlights. I don't want to be in Liberia and have either of those problems any more than I'd want to be there and thyroid storm.
Maybe I'll just stay here on my couch for three solid months.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
manual typewriters?
Lawyers Without Borders is in need of donations of manual typewriters to take to Liberia to help with legal system reconstruction, as well as replacement supplies.
Know any organizations with some to donate?
Know any organizations with some to donate?
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
another apartment
It's in Broadmoor, the best neighborhood - the most diverse, most active, etc. The landlord is awesome, and the apartment is all completely redone. It has washer dryer and lots of closets.
But no central A/C. And I dunno, maybe it's because I've been in New Orleans too long, but 8' ceilings seem low to me now.
I don't know what to do.
My backyard neighbors are making me crazy - they're always out there making noise and burning things. I can't open my backdoor anymore, which is the only way to air out my apartment (the front has no screen, and mosquitos swarm if I leave it open at all). I don't know if I can make it another two months here.
But, I don't want to commit to something that doesn't feel perfect.
Sigh.
But no central A/C. And I dunno, maybe it's because I've been in New Orleans too long, but 8' ceilings seem low to me now.
I don't know what to do.
My backyard neighbors are making me crazy - they're always out there making noise and burning things. I can't open my backdoor anymore, which is the only way to air out my apartment (the front has no screen, and mosquitos swarm if I leave it open at all). I don't know if I can make it another two months here.
But, I don't want to commit to something that doesn't feel perfect.
Sigh.
conversation
Hm, shockingly the professor was not excited about being told she's racist.
It was an unpleasant conversation, with lots of excuses. And maybe I should have defended my position more, but really I just wanted her to think about it.
And now I'm the pain in the ass we all know.
It was an unpleasant conversation, with lots of excuses. And maybe I should have defended my position more, but really I just wanted her to think about it.
And now I'm the pain in the ass we all know.
Monday, March 12, 2007
quandary
Today in Contracts, my favorite class, the prof effed up.
Every day she calls on people, going in order. Why I like her is that she pushes - she holds you on the spot but she leads you to answers, also.
Today she didn't push much. She returned to a person she'd ended with last week and then went to Candace. One question, four parts - a very simple question. Then on to Mike, who was asked only one question, and then on to some girl in the front, who got a bunch of questions to flesh out, and then some guy in the next section who got a bunch of questions.
Candace and Mike are black.
Mike was livid and Candace was passing notes with the woman behind her about it, trying to figure out what was going on. Of course I had noticed it and had hoped they didn't. They did.
So now I feel like I need to go talk to the prof. Mike probably won't, and Candace isn't sure what she experienced. I wish I weren't.
It's textbook. How so often teachers treat males and females differently in their classrooms, but here it was about race (and I choose that word rather than ethnicity deliberately).
And I have to figure out a way to help the professor understand how what she did was really wrong, without making her defensive. Of course I don't think she's racist, and I'm sure she will deny it completely and will have lots of excuses.
But this place is hostile to black students and things like that matter a lot. Each person gets called on one time per semester, and that's it. Because we don't do papers or anything, it's the one chance to get feedback on our thinking. And Mike and Candace were denied that opportunity.
This feels icky, but I know I have to say or do something. So, it's not really a quandary. The prof liking me is far less important than saying something. It's blind grading, and she doesn't know me well enough to write a letter of rec for me anyways.
Damn it. Sometimes I get tired of being me.
Every day she calls on people, going in order. Why I like her is that she pushes - she holds you on the spot but she leads you to answers, also.
Today she didn't push much. She returned to a person she'd ended with last week and then went to Candace. One question, four parts - a very simple question. Then on to Mike, who was asked only one question, and then on to some girl in the front, who got a bunch of questions to flesh out, and then some guy in the next section who got a bunch of questions.
Candace and Mike are black.
Mike was livid and Candace was passing notes with the woman behind her about it, trying to figure out what was going on. Of course I had noticed it and had hoped they didn't. They did.
So now I feel like I need to go talk to the prof. Mike probably won't, and Candace isn't sure what she experienced. I wish I weren't.
It's textbook. How so often teachers treat males and females differently in their classrooms, but here it was about race (and I choose that word rather than ethnicity deliberately).
And I have to figure out a way to help the professor understand how what she did was really wrong, without making her defensive. Of course I don't think she's racist, and I'm sure she will deny it completely and will have lots of excuses.
But this place is hostile to black students and things like that matter a lot. Each person gets called on one time per semester, and that's it. Because we don't do papers or anything, it's the one chance to get feedback on our thinking. And Mike and Candace were denied that opportunity.
This feels icky, but I know I have to say or do something. So, it's not really a quandary. The prof liking me is far less important than saying something. It's blind grading, and she doesn't know me well enough to write a letter of rec for me anyways.
Damn it. Sometimes I get tired of being me.
the will to move
Bennachin's is my favorite New Orleans restaurant, hands down. Oh sure, I have my falafal dalliances and jambalaya fixation - but Bennachin (the only African restaurant in town) does me right.
First mortgage broker I called today basically laughed at me, then called back to say he couldn't help me because I have no income. That doesn't make sense to me - the already-rented out units more than make the mortgage. So, I'm calling somebody else. Actually, emailed and haven't heard back.
So then I got to fixin about renting. Maybe I should just rent - so I tried to call a number for a way cute place we drove past and they didn't answer and the mailbox was full. OK, don't want a landlady like that. So then I called another from Craigslist, and I just went to go see it.
In lots of ways it's perfect - w/d AND d/w in unit - AND A PANTRY. Refinished hardwood floors, and access to the backyard shared with others where I could lock up my bike. Landlord very concerned about quiet & mature tenants.
BUT, the first thing I saw was mold on the front door. WAshed off, but it stained. That just doesn't look good. And some of the paint on the windowsills and baseboards in the bedroom are peeling off in strips - and I'm sure that's lead-based paint. It's small - of course larger than what I have now, but small nonetheless. Not big enough for me and Dayton if he wants to watch TV and I want to study. Or vice versa.
And, I want my own house.
Sigh.
OK, it's official - I'm addicted to Popeye's. Somehow it got in my thoughts a bit ago and I can't let go of the jonesin for spicy chicken strips. Hm ... according to the nutritional information, the only "bad" thing I get there is the biscuit. OK, that's my ultra-nutritious dinner tonight. Hey, I had spinach for lunch. OK, so Bennachin's is rivalled by Popeye's.
Anyway, I must, must, must focus on my studying.
I think. But then I read this article for Legal Profession which is all about how effed up lawyers are, how they don't have lives, how unbalanced and unhealthy they are, etc. And while those $160000 starting salaries sound WAY sweet, there's no way I'm living that life. I damn sure better make more than I did teaching, but I'm getting over my idea that I can work in a big firm (where the big money is) and keep my humanity and sanity.
So that excuses my lack of focus. It's like Jessica said the other day, "I see those people studying in the library and getting straight C's and I think they must be pretty stupid. So me, putting everything off and not going to class and partying all the time - at least I don't have to look in the mirror and call myself stupid with my grades." What if I work harder and my grades go down?
But more than that - the firms that are looking for the top 10% - those probably aren't places where I would fit in. I'll be too busy birding and renovating and mommying - too busy with the rest of my life to let law consume my soul. So why not live the life now that I want in five years? I'm too old to sacrifice time.
And life is too short to deny myself Popeye's spicy chicken strips.
Oh - the impetus for all this moving jonesin? All yesterday there was loud partying abutting my backyard, then into the night into my front yard. I finally called the cops, and then it quieted down. There's trash everywhere, especially beer cans. Stupid. I don't want to put up with that shit.
First mortgage broker I called today basically laughed at me, then called back to say he couldn't help me because I have no income. That doesn't make sense to me - the already-rented out units more than make the mortgage. So, I'm calling somebody else. Actually, emailed and haven't heard back.
So then I got to fixin about renting. Maybe I should just rent - so I tried to call a number for a way cute place we drove past and they didn't answer and the mailbox was full. OK, don't want a landlady like that. So then I called another from Craigslist, and I just went to go see it.
In lots of ways it's perfect - w/d AND d/w in unit - AND A PANTRY. Refinished hardwood floors, and access to the backyard shared with others where I could lock up my bike. Landlord very concerned about quiet & mature tenants.
BUT, the first thing I saw was mold on the front door. WAshed off, but it stained. That just doesn't look good. And some of the paint on the windowsills and baseboards in the bedroom are peeling off in strips - and I'm sure that's lead-based paint. It's small - of course larger than what I have now, but small nonetheless. Not big enough for me and Dayton if he wants to watch TV and I want to study. Or vice versa.
And, I want my own house.
Sigh.
OK, it's official - I'm addicted to Popeye's. Somehow it got in my thoughts a bit ago and I can't let go of the jonesin for spicy chicken strips. Hm ... according to the nutritional information, the only "bad" thing I get there is the biscuit. OK, that's my ultra-nutritious dinner tonight. Hey, I had spinach for lunch. OK, so Bennachin's is rivalled by Popeye's.
Anyway, I must, must, must focus on my studying.
I think. But then I read this article for Legal Profession which is all about how effed up lawyers are, how they don't have lives, how unbalanced and unhealthy they are, etc. And while those $160000 starting salaries sound WAY sweet, there's no way I'm living that life. I damn sure better make more than I did teaching, but I'm getting over my idea that I can work in a big firm (where the big money is) and keep my humanity and sanity.
So that excuses my lack of focus. It's like Jessica said the other day, "I see those people studying in the library and getting straight C's and I think they must be pretty stupid. So me, putting everything off and not going to class and partying all the time - at least I don't have to look in the mirror and call myself stupid with my grades." What if I work harder and my grades go down?
But more than that - the firms that are looking for the top 10% - those probably aren't places where I would fit in. I'll be too busy birding and renovating and mommying - too busy with the rest of my life to let law consume my soul. So why not live the life now that I want in five years? I'm too old to sacrifice time.
And life is too short to deny myself Popeye's spicy chicken strips.
Oh - the impetus for all this moving jonesin? All yesterday there was loud partying abutting my backyard, then into the night into my front yard. I finally called the cops, and then it quieted down. There's trash everywhere, especially beer cans. Stupid. I don't want to put up with that shit.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
double-dog-dare
Sometimes I double-dog-dare myself.
"What are you, chicken? Bwackbwackbwack! What kind of person lives in fear of change? Weak people, that's who! Are you weak? Fear is stupid!"
And so on.
Yeah, I'm a drill sergeant to myself. We know where Selma gets it from.
But I'll just say it straight out - hell yeah, I'm scared. I'm scared of holes in external walls and the damage from water and termites. I'm scared of fraudulent contractors. I'm scared of hidden serious damage. I'm scared of crazy renters and not finding parking in front of where I live. I'm scared of spending too much time fixing up a house instead of really necessary time spent studying - and I'm scared of not getting a good job when I'm out of school because of it. I'm scared that I'll lose money, and I'm scared that I will hate fixing up property because I'll be bad at it and make bad decisions.
And besides. I left a stable career to go tremendously in debt at age 40, and I'm engaged to a man from a very different culture that I've physically been in proximity with for a total of about 6 weeks. I don't think I'm chicken. I just think that I may be at my quotas of leaps of faith for awhile.
But dammit, there are those cute decorative wooden brackets, and two tenants who need me. Yeah, I have a pathological need to be needed.
Totally different subject, I'm annoyed with one of my classmates. He's a nice guy but I have less respect for him. He interviewed for jobs here. He had a summer job all lined up MONTHS ago - and he's married and his wife is in DC and he was going to be with her. But instead he applies here, and he tells interviewers he plans on staying here after law school. Which is a total lie - he has absolutely no desire to stay here, he just wants to make some money this summer but doesn't apply to jobs in DC.
It just bugs. I told him his karma will be affected accordingly. He told me straight-up that he lied to them, and I don't know how he can be ok with himself for that. It's hard to get a job in New Orleans, and there are people who actually DO plan on staying here, and he is taking a job away from them. Yeah, me, but others, too. I hate lying and I'm none-too-fond of liars. Which makes my new career path a bit of a challenge.
"What are you, chicken? Bwackbwackbwack! What kind of person lives in fear of change? Weak people, that's who! Are you weak? Fear is stupid!"
And so on.
Yeah, I'm a drill sergeant to myself. We know where Selma gets it from.
But I'll just say it straight out - hell yeah, I'm scared. I'm scared of holes in external walls and the damage from water and termites. I'm scared of fraudulent contractors. I'm scared of hidden serious damage. I'm scared of crazy renters and not finding parking in front of where I live. I'm scared of spending too much time fixing up a house instead of really necessary time spent studying - and I'm scared of not getting a good job when I'm out of school because of it. I'm scared that I'll lose money, and I'm scared that I will hate fixing up property because I'll be bad at it and make bad decisions.
And besides. I left a stable career to go tremendously in debt at age 40, and I'm engaged to a man from a very different culture that I've physically been in proximity with for a total of about 6 weeks. I don't think I'm chicken. I just think that I may be at my quotas of leaps of faith for awhile.
But dammit, there are those cute decorative wooden brackets, and two tenants who need me. Yeah, I have a pathological need to be needed.
Totally different subject, I'm annoyed with one of my classmates. He's a nice guy but I have less respect for him. He interviewed for jobs here. He had a summer job all lined up MONTHS ago - and he's married and his wife is in DC and he was going to be with her. But instead he applies here, and he tells interviewers he plans on staying here after law school. Which is a total lie - he has absolutely no desire to stay here, he just wants to make some money this summer but doesn't apply to jobs in DC.
It just bugs. I told him his karma will be affected accordingly. He told me straight-up that he lied to them, and I don't know how he can be ok with himself for that. It's hard to get a job in New Orleans, and there are people who actually DO plan on staying here, and he is taking a job away from them. Yeah, me, but others, too. I hate lying and I'm none-too-fond of liars. Which makes my new career path a bit of a challenge.
they had me at decorative wooden bracket
I loved the houses - I'm so screwed. One of them is fine, and those people won't go anywhere until they die. The other though - it needs SO MUCH WORK. I can't tell how much is foundational and how much is surface. But see, that's like a dream to me - to have a house just like I want it. And they're huge inside - three times the space I have now, easily. They don't have the arches that I love but they have pocket doors.
The one isn't even habitable now. So I'd be paying rent here plus paying a mortgage until I could move in - the bathroom and kitchen have to be totally redone, and studs replaced on an outside wall, and closets need to be put in. The floors need to be sanded down and refinished - they're beautiful wood floors, but they need work. And just a lot of work - like the mantels and trim need to be painted (and the walls, desperately), but they've been painted over 100+ years so really need to have paint removed first. And outside paint. And, and, and.
I just don't think I can make it work financially. Which is too bad - I really like the couple selling (they got in over their heads, because they're trying to fix up where they live, too), and the people currently living there. Miss Dee liked me, she told them, and that says a lot - her six greatgrandchildren were visiting and she was able to keep them in line. And Mr. Lloyd is retired and looks out for the whole neighborhood - which would be way sweet for me. Parking can be a real problem.
Sigh. I'm very, very torn.
Norwood's with Kim this weekend in Alabama (whom I'll go visit next weekend), but as soon as he's back I'll ask him to go see it with me and tell me what he thinks.
The real problem is that it would take at least $13,000 to make it rentable again ... but I want so much more than that. I want it NICE. I want central air and heat, a washer and dryer (probably in the kitchen - it's big enough), and a shower (now it's those sweet old bathtubs which I would hate to throw out, but I would need me a shower). Maybe even a dishwasher. All that stuff would cost major bank, especially for installation. I want closets put in (there are none - this is historic property). I want nice cabinets and countertops and appliances and fixtures. Not top of the line, but quality. And all that takes money, money, money - and I have none coming in.
Sigh.
The one isn't even habitable now. So I'd be paying rent here plus paying a mortgage until I could move in - the bathroom and kitchen have to be totally redone, and studs replaced on an outside wall, and closets need to be put in. The floors need to be sanded down and refinished - they're beautiful wood floors, but they need work. And just a lot of work - like the mantels and trim need to be painted (and the walls, desperately), but they've been painted over 100+ years so really need to have paint removed first. And outside paint. And, and, and.
I just don't think I can make it work financially. Which is too bad - I really like the couple selling (they got in over their heads, because they're trying to fix up where they live, too), and the people currently living there. Miss Dee liked me, she told them, and that says a lot - her six greatgrandchildren were visiting and she was able to keep them in line. And Mr. Lloyd is retired and looks out for the whole neighborhood - which would be way sweet for me. Parking can be a real problem.
Sigh. I'm very, very torn.
Norwood's with Kim this weekend in Alabama (whom I'll go visit next weekend), but as soon as he's back I'll ask him to go see it with me and tell me what he thinks.
The real problem is that it would take at least $13,000 to make it rentable again ... but I want so much more than that. I want it NICE. I want central air and heat, a washer and dryer (probably in the kitchen - it's big enough), and a shower (now it's those sweet old bathtubs which I would hate to throw out, but I would need me a shower). Maybe even a dishwasher. All that stuff would cost major bank, especially for installation. I want closets put in (there are none - this is historic property). I want nice cabinets and countertops and appliances and fixtures. Not top of the line, but quality. And all that takes money, money, money - and I have none coming in.
Sigh.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
I should be prohibited
... from walking in New Orleans.
Depending on where I am, today I just went due north (that's lakeside, Tami) and there are so many incredibly gorgeous houses. I look at 'em like they're German pastries (which I still think are better than French or any other, rivaled only by Austrian, but I digress) - with such longing.
Today's fantasy? What color I would paint the Marigny shotguns if I buy them ... I'm thinking one yellow and the other either purple or green. Yeah, I'm creative. But I saw several houses along my walk which had the perfect color combination with next door. Now one of the houses I'm looking at is yellow with dark green shutters & trim, so I could keep that and paint the other one in a mossy lavender.
Ah, my fantasies.
I do go see the houses tomorrow morning officially, and I may do a drive-by today on my way home from the Latino legal clinic. Where I will have to very quickly improve my Spanish because the three native/strong Spanish speakers I had lined up all bailed. Argh. Oh well.
So, despite Property being by far the most difficult class I've had in law school, I'm thinking seriously about pursuing a real estate law focus.
This obsession is taking hold deeply. It's like ... the last time I felt this was was spring 2002 - just before I bought my house. Which was a fantastic experience in all ways. I was scared then, and I'm scared now, and I spent a lot of time mulling it over and then looking at houses I didn't want - but then found the perfect place and it was sweet for two years and two days, and even sweeter when I cleared a profit.
Not that I have the time or energy for home ownership, renovation, and landladyhood - I should be focusing everything on my studies. And I will. Really. Maybe after I take another walk after volunteering after birdwatching after another driveby.
Depending on where I am, today I just went due north (that's lakeside, Tami) and there are so many incredibly gorgeous houses. I look at 'em like they're German pastries (which I still think are better than French or any other, rivaled only by Austrian, but I digress) - with such longing.
Today's fantasy? What color I would paint the Marigny shotguns if I buy them ... I'm thinking one yellow and the other either purple or green. Yeah, I'm creative. But I saw several houses along my walk which had the perfect color combination with next door. Now one of the houses I'm looking at is yellow with dark green shutters & trim, so I could keep that and paint the other one in a mossy lavender.
Ah, my fantasies.
I do go see the houses tomorrow morning officially, and I may do a drive-by today on my way home from the Latino legal clinic. Where I will have to very quickly improve my Spanish because the three native/strong Spanish speakers I had lined up all bailed. Argh. Oh well.
So, despite Property being by far the most difficult class I've had in law school, I'm thinking seriously about pursuing a real estate law focus.
This obsession is taking hold deeply. It's like ... the last time I felt this was was spring 2002 - just before I bought my house. Which was a fantastic experience in all ways. I was scared then, and I'm scared now, and I spent a lot of time mulling it over and then looking at houses I didn't want - but then found the perfect place and it was sweet for two years and two days, and even sweeter when I cleared a profit.
Not that I have the time or energy for home ownership, renovation, and landladyhood - I should be focusing everything on my studies. And I will. Really. Maybe after I take another walk after volunteering after birdwatching after another driveby.
Friday, March 09, 2007
something missing in my life ...
Drive-bys! I was telling Sarah as we were walking home last night about my "stalking" past and that I'm the queen of the drive-by.
I haven't done a drive-by since I got here. But more than that, there's been no desire or target.
I'm a stalker without a stalkee.
And I thought I was pretty happy here until I realized that.
On that, since Lenten privation, my mood has been consistently up. This beautiful weather helps and that it's not final-time yet and last weekend's mini-adventure - but controlling for those factors, I can definitely tell a huge difference in my affect.
Which really, really sucks. Because I love chocolate and coffee, and it bums me out to think that I should live my life without them ... forever.
On the other hand, I've been eating a lot more high-fat foods than I usually do - Popeye's, pizza, etc. Maybe that's the difference.
Yup, this is me rationalizing right on out of a healthy lifestyle.
I haven't done a drive-by since I got here. But more than that, there's been no desire or target.
I'm a stalker without a stalkee.
And I thought I was pretty happy here until I realized that.
On that, since Lenten privation, my mood has been consistently up. This beautiful weather helps and that it's not final-time yet and last weekend's mini-adventure - but controlling for those factors, I can definitely tell a huge difference in my affect.
Which really, really sucks. Because I love chocolate and coffee, and it bums me out to think that I should live my life without them ... forever.
On the other hand, I've been eating a lot more high-fat foods than I usually do - Popeye's, pizza, etc. Maybe that's the difference.
Yup, this is me rationalizing right on out of a healthy lifestyle.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
finally, some good news from New Orleans
Brad, Angie say they'll take Ray
By Damian Tatum
The Levee staff writer
By Damian Tatum
The Levee staff writer
Brad, Angie say they’ll take Ray:
New Orleanians breathed a collective sigh of relief last week, as celebrity super-couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie confirmed they are in late-stage negotiations to adopt New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin.
The couple had been frustrated in their recent attempts to adopt a Vietnamese child, due to international legal restrictions preventing unmarried parents from adopting. No such restriction applies to Nagin, according to Ann S. Williamson, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Social Services.
“Married, unmarried, gay, straight, space aliens, hell. They can have him,” Williamson said at a joint news conference with Jolie, Pitt, and a scowling, towel-swaddled Nagin.
Although it is hoped that simply removing Nagin – or “Baby Ray,” as Jolie has nicknamed him – from City Hall and remanding him to a nursery in the couple’s renovated French Quarter mansion will dramatically accelerate the city’s recovery, residents have not given up hope that the couple will also adopt District Attorney Eddie Jordan and New Orleans Police Superintendent Warren Riley.
“Well, you know, those two do tend to fight a lot, and they’re sneaky,” Jolie said. “Let’s see if we can get this one to play nice first.”
Gov. Kathleen Blanco announced that citizens can apply for adoption by Pitt and Jolie through the governor’s new “Road to Someone Else’s Home Plan.” Delays began immediately, and the program is expected to make its first awards no later than 2013.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
based on my personality
Interesting. Bullshit, but interesting. Those of you who have kids, take the quiz and see if your kids are the "right" gender. :)Wednesday
My Contracts prof just said: "Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose" and has spent the past 15 minutes pointing out all the ways my Right-Wing-Extremist buddy is wrong.
Sometimes it's worth showing up.
Sometimes it's worth showing up.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
drones
I walked over to the law school about 8:15 tonight to pick up some cases that I printed. I never go there at night - this was the first time because my friend Sarah was walking over.
First, it's a nice walk at night.
But second, I was freaked out. I walked past the reading room and it was full of people studying.
STUDYING.
What the hell is up with that?
I'm just pleased with myself because I found a mystery case I was looking for, where the court ruled that an officer with his hand on his gun is not compelling somebody to answer questions - instead it's somehow voluntary. What a legal fiction that is. But, that's my party's side, so that's what I'm going with.
And, I just now realized that I'm way further behind than I thought - I thought I'd done a big chunk that I actually hadn't. So, I'm a little screwed.
So maybe I'll just go to bed.
And this, blog friends, is why I will NOT be one of those $160,000 starting salary lawyers.
First, it's a nice walk at night.
But second, I was freaked out. I walked past the reading room and it was full of people studying.
STUDYING.
What the hell is up with that?
I'm just pleased with myself because I found a mystery case I was looking for, where the court ruled that an officer with his hand on his gun is not compelling somebody to answer questions - instead it's somehow voluntary. What a legal fiction that is. But, that's my party's side, so that's what I'm going with.
And, I just now realized that I'm way further behind than I thought - I thought I'd done a big chunk that I actually hadn't. So, I'm a little screwed.
So maybe I'll just go to bed.
And this, blog friends, is why I will NOT be one of those $160,000 starting salary lawyers.
Monday, March 05, 2007
drive-by
I have a major assignment for my Legal Research and Writing class due soon, and I really should be finished with it. I need to buckle down and make serious effort. I'm a little stumped, looking for a mystery case.
So, as soon as I got home from class, I:
a. started researching cases
b. read the cases I printed earlier
c. revised the argument section of the brief
d. drove past the house I just posted about.
Duh.
It's one mile to Central Grocery, home of the muffuletta (not the best place to take vegetarians to, but the olive salad is awesome) and to nearby Cafe du Monde. No more pesky parking problems if I can walk there. And on the way? Angeli's, which is Angelina & Brad's favorite place and they live very near. THEY WOULD BE MY NEIGHBORS. Somebody told me this weekend exactly where their house is - he knew their street address, but I forgot it. What kind of stalker am I?
Anyway, the location is way sweet - it's about two blocks from houses I would never be able to afford in the Quarter. BUT, the houses have no off-street parking and it's a busy area. Quite busy and the driving is a little confusing right there. Very lively with some very yum eats around. So, if I were taking it seriously, I would have to go back often at different times of day and night to see how quiet/loud it is and if I feel comfortable with who's around. Also the inside of course makes a huge difference in how I feel about it - if it's a sound sanctuary then there's no problem. So, it's still a possibility, depending on my gut (which grew significantly over the weekend). The people I saw going into and out of the houses were people I'd be comfortable being near. And it appeared that the majority of people were Black hanging out in front of houses and at the restaurants & grocery stores, and there were also White people around, and I saw several bicyclists. I just want an integrated neighborhood - not all anything.
And those are "decorative wooden brackets," those things that so seduce me. Here are some nice pics of some, and interesting info about shotguns in NOLA.
So, no hurry on the house stuff. When I drove there I saw a lot of apparently abandoned houses a little further away from the Quarter - maybe those would be even better for me, but I get overwhelmed with the idea of full reconstruction. This project, where the work was started and it's currently inhabitable and the current owners have gotten a bid on all the work that needs to be done - that's more possible for me. Though if I had a partner who knew about construction, it could be sweet. Susan sent me pics of the flooring she redid in her kitchen, and I just keep thinking, "I could do that!"
But, what I really need is a big ass sign. If I get a job here this summer, that would be a sign. If the current owners meet and love me and are willing to be really flexible, that would be a sign.
OK, fun is over. Time to buckle down. No, really.
So, as soon as I got home from class, I:
a. started researching cases
b. read the cases I printed earlier
c. revised the argument section of the brief
d. drove past the house I just posted about.
Duh.
It's one mile to Central Grocery, home of the muffuletta (not the best place to take vegetarians to, but the olive salad is awesome) and to nearby Cafe du Monde. No more pesky parking problems if I can walk there. And on the way? Angeli's, which is Angelina & Brad's favorite place and they live very near. THEY WOULD BE MY NEIGHBORS. Somebody told me this weekend exactly where their house is - he knew their street address, but I forgot it. What kind of stalker am I?
Anyway, the location is way sweet - it's about two blocks from houses I would never be able to afford in the Quarter. BUT, the houses have no off-street parking and it's a busy area. Quite busy and the driving is a little confusing right there. Very lively with some very yum eats around. So, if I were taking it seriously, I would have to go back often at different times of day and night to see how quiet/loud it is and if I feel comfortable with who's around. Also the inside of course makes a huge difference in how I feel about it - if it's a sound sanctuary then there's no problem. So, it's still a possibility, depending on my gut (which grew significantly over the weekend). The people I saw going into and out of the houses were people I'd be comfortable being near. And it appeared that the majority of people were Black hanging out in front of houses and at the restaurants & grocery stores, and there were also White people around, and I saw several bicyclists. I just want an integrated neighborhood - not all anything.
And those are "decorative wooden brackets," those things that so seduce me. Here are some nice pics of some, and interesting info about shotguns in NOLA.
So, no hurry on the house stuff. When I drove there I saw a lot of apparently abandoned houses a little further away from the Quarter - maybe those would be even better for me, but I get overwhelmed with the idea of full reconstruction. This project, where the work was started and it's currently inhabitable and the current owners have gotten a bid on all the work that needs to be done - that's more possible for me. Though if I had a partner who knew about construction, it could be sweet. Susan sent me pics of the flooring she redid in her kitchen, and I just keep thinking, "I could do that!"
But, what I really need is a big ass sign. If I get a job here this summer, that would be a sign. If the current owners meet and love me and are willing to be really flexible, that would be a sign.
OK, fun is over. Time to buckle down. No, really.
hold your breath and cross your fingers for me
This is EXTREMELY preliminary discussion ... but maybe this shotgun house will be mine. Actually this one plus the one next door, with two units per house. It needs some extensive renovation - but look at it. OK, look at it with my eyes. I see those green shutters and the cool wood on the rafters (I don't know the word for it, but I'm totally in love with it) and the colored glass and sunburst pattern at the top. It's an embodiment of what I love about New Orleans. And yes, elderly Black man sitting on the stoop included in the purchase price.The reason I'm actually allowing myself to be a little excited is that the people selling it are willing to owner-finance which would save $$ (Yes, a real estate lawyer hired by me would definitely be involved) and could probably transfer their insurance to me. Plus, the rental income once fixed up (currently inhabited) would more than cover the mortgage so I'd be living there for much less than I pay now. And, it's three blocks from French Quarter and about six blocks from my favorite restaurant.
Anyway, I just heard back from the owners - they sent pics - and now I hope to go see the houses. What excites me is that they are good people - I google searched 'em and they were volunteers here doing what I did, got married here, bought the property here last year. Don't know if they moved here, but I'll find out.
It's not the perfect house for me - I want a big garden and a porch swing and all that. But would it do for me for 2.5 years until I am gainfully employed and can upgrade? That I'll find out.
OK, exhale now, but keep those fingers crossed for me. I'm happier as a homeowner, and I would love to fix up an old New Orleans house.
So Jenny, get your paintbrushes warmed up.
I would rather be ...
Thanks to Tiffany, whom I borrowed this great pic from.I would much rather be handling dogs than reading Uniform Commercial Code.
The Iditarod is off and running for 2007! Woo hoo! Martin Buser is currently in the lead, which makes me happy. He's a great guy. One time, must have been my first year seeing the Iditarod, Martin came in - he was about 5th at at the time I think. He pulled up - and mind you, this is after a week of mushing through just about the roughest terrain & conditions on earth. Exhaustion would be far too mild a word. He said hello to the throng of us watching him, then immediately started digging in his sled. He pulled something out, found my friend Jerri in the crowd, gave her a big hug and a gift he'd been carrying in his sled for her. He's just cool like that. I'd love it if he won, but it's all great.
And hopefully soon Rick will mush it and I can follow his progress and cheer for him from far away!
interview #2
I think I might actually have a shot at that job, the one with the evil, unnamed energy corporation. Both interviewers raved about their job, which I find pretty funny. "Look, I'm here. I'm a 1L not in the top 10% of my class, making me virtually unemployable, and you're interviewing me. What are the chances you need to convince me that your job is the BEST EVER?" But the main guy said three times that they pay him "very good money." Rock on. Pay me good money and I'm there. $25-$30/hour isn't as good as I made teaching, but it doesn't suck.
I guess it'll be a long few weeks until I hear about them both. But it's cool because it puts any other plans on hold - I don't have to be job-seeking while I'm waiting.
I didn't realize how many people applied who didn't get any interviews, so I guess I should be grateful for that. I think of my friend Philippe of many years ago who was looking for a university teaching job after finishing his PhD. As he said, "It takes just one. One yes is all I want."
And from this weekend, my classmate's girlfriend said she knows so many people who went to much worse schools than mine and who did very poorly, and yet they have really good jobs. So, my future's looking bright. Maybe not this summer so much, but eventually I will have a paycheck again, and the sun will shine on my bank accounts again.
And, I'm seriously reconsidering the masters in international development. I have this nagging feeling that it's not the best use of my time and resources. Such as the very limited resource in my life, patience.
Especially without chocolate. Man, it's rough. I did have two smores Saturday night, now I'm back on the wagon - and it's a rough, rocky wagon. Sucks.
I guess it'll be a long few weeks until I hear about them both. But it's cool because it puts any other plans on hold - I don't have to be job-seeking while I'm waiting.
I didn't realize how many people applied who didn't get any interviews, so I guess I should be grateful for that. I think of my friend Philippe of many years ago who was looking for a university teaching job after finishing his PhD. As he said, "It takes just one. One yes is all I want."
And from this weekend, my classmate's girlfriend said she knows so many people who went to much worse schools than mine and who did very poorly, and yet they have really good jobs. So, my future's looking bright. Maybe not this summer so much, but eventually I will have a paycheck again, and the sun will shine on my bank accounts again.
And, I'm seriously reconsidering the masters in international development. I have this nagging feeling that it's not the best use of my time and resources. Such as the very limited resource in my life, patience.
Especially without chocolate. Man, it's rough. I did have two smores Saturday night, now I'm back on the wagon - and it's a rough, rocky wagon. Sucks.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
consumer lust
Sometimes, I just gotta have it. This woman that I met this morning who'd been riding, whose husband made a killer early-morning fire, was wearing these in lime green. I just about fell over. WHAT ARE THOSE? I LOVE THEM!Ariat Fatbaby. Must ... have ...
Purple's not a color this year, but red and lime are, and I'm all over it. Even if I have to drive to effing Covington instead of write my brief, I WILL get me some Fatbabies.
Welcome to Melder
It was a very nice weekend at 4B Ranch. We got there late afternoon, got set up and oriented. They had a BYOB saloon! And there were full bathrooms and fire pit, BBQ, and even a full open-air kitchen for use - but it was far enough away from where we camped that it was like roughing it without being rough. Our group headed out for a walk, and I lasted about 10 minutes before I announced I was heading off on my own.
Over the weekend, I saw a number of great birds, including Eastern bluebird, cardinal (male and female), red-headed woodpecker and another woodpecker species, and a flycatcher of some sort.
After my solo birding we had dinner - our guides were of the primitive camping mindset. Over an open fire we made little foil packets of raw hamburger, frozen vegetables, and chopped potatoes with a bunch of Tony Chachere's, followed immediately with smores.
And then it started to get COLD. We huddled around the fire, trying to stay up long enough to not be up all night. Got to hang out with other visitors to the ranch and had a good time, and I even got to practice my German. It got down to about 30 degrees - yes, below freezing. And I was of course fine, because I am an REI whore. But I slept with two layers in my -20 Sierra bag on a thermarest, wearing a hat and socks. Some of my miserable compatriots were less well-prepared and suffered miserably. I only woke up because my bag is a mummy and every time I try to toss and turn there's a problem, and I wake up and then go right back to sleep.
Morning was beautiful, and I got to lay there waiting for the edge to get off the chill while listening to a forest of birds. Breakfast, including some coffee because it was so damn cold, and about 10:00, half of us headed out on horseback.
I spent every childhood summer on horseback and I've been thrown at least twice. Maybe I'm just getting old, but when I got up on that horse and looked down CLEAR to the ground, it seemed mighty far. So we took off, and Midnight and I made some things clear such that I really was the boss and I wasn't going to tolerate his mischief (he kept trying to race to be first, or to head after the horses going back home - and when I first refused that he tried to run under low-hanging trees to knock me off - but I was having none of that and then he was the best-behaved horse there).
These were some feisty horses. Usually when I see trailride horses their personalities have been beaten out of them and they look physically miserable and spiritually dead. Not these horses - they seem to have a pretty damn good life with a whole huge pasture to play in and they were very well-fed and cared-for. But I don't think that they were necessarily the best horses for beginners. We had three students from China who just really couldn't control their horses, and the language barrier made it a problem. Their horses kept turning around and heading home, and the guide would chase them down and so forth. I ran out of patience, so when we had to chase one guy all the way back to the ranch to get another guide to help out, I said I'd stay behind. I'm happier closer to the ground anyway.
So, I had some great conversations with some real Cajun folks and I got some great recipes. Then I went out and looked at some more birds and walked around the huge pastures. We had lunch and when the other group went out to ride I chilled with a book and took a nap and chatted it up with the other people some more. Then we hopped in the van and rode along at 90 mph.
A very nice weekend! I liked being in National Forest again - all those logging roads and side trails are like home to me.
Unfortunately though, the Brownies didn't finish my paper for me while I was gone, so that is still here.
Over the weekend, I saw a number of great birds, including Eastern bluebird, cardinal (male and female), red-headed woodpecker and another woodpecker species, and a flycatcher of some sort.
After my solo birding we had dinner - our guides were of the primitive camping mindset. Over an open fire we made little foil packets of raw hamburger, frozen vegetables, and chopped potatoes with a bunch of Tony Chachere's, followed immediately with smores.
And then it started to get COLD. We huddled around the fire, trying to stay up long enough to not be up all night. Got to hang out with other visitors to the ranch and had a good time, and I even got to practice my German. It got down to about 30 degrees - yes, below freezing. And I was of course fine, because I am an REI whore. But I slept with two layers in my -20 Sierra bag on a thermarest, wearing a hat and socks. Some of my miserable compatriots were less well-prepared and suffered miserably. I only woke up because my bag is a mummy and every time I try to toss and turn there's a problem, and I wake up and then go right back to sleep.
Morning was beautiful, and I got to lay there waiting for the edge to get off the chill while listening to a forest of birds. Breakfast, including some coffee because it was so damn cold, and about 10:00, half of us headed out on horseback.
I spent every childhood summer on horseback and I've been thrown at least twice. Maybe I'm just getting old, but when I got up on that horse and looked down CLEAR to the ground, it seemed mighty far. So we took off, and Midnight and I made some things clear such that I really was the boss and I wasn't going to tolerate his mischief (he kept trying to race to be first, or to head after the horses going back home - and when I first refused that he tried to run under low-hanging trees to knock me off - but I was having none of that and then he was the best-behaved horse there).
These were some feisty horses. Usually when I see trailride horses their personalities have been beaten out of them and they look physically miserable and spiritually dead. Not these horses - they seem to have a pretty damn good life with a whole huge pasture to play in and they were very well-fed and cared-for. But I don't think that they were necessarily the best horses for beginners. We had three students from China who just really couldn't control their horses, and the language barrier made it a problem. Their horses kept turning around and heading home, and the guide would chase them down and so forth. I ran out of patience, so when we had to chase one guy all the way back to the ranch to get another guide to help out, I said I'd stay behind. I'm happier closer to the ground anyway.
So, I had some great conversations with some real Cajun folks and I got some great recipes. Then I went out and looked at some more birds and walked around the huge pastures. We had lunch and when the other group went out to ride I chilled with a book and took a nap and chatted it up with the other people some more. Then we hopped in the van and rode along at 90 mph.
A very nice weekend! I liked being in National Forest again - all those logging roads and side trails are like home to me.
Unfortunately though, the Brownies didn't finish my paper for me while I was gone, so that is still here.
Friday, March 02, 2007
longevity and health
He was not exaggerating. The lawyer who works at the firm I interviewed with, who shows up every day and takes the stairs to her office on the 5th floor, started working at that firm in 1937!
I want a job at a place that will make me want to show up when I'm in my 90's.
That's amazing.
Of course, I'll probably HAVE to still be working in my 90's to pay off my student loan debt.
I want a job at a place that will make me want to show up when I'm in my 90's.
That's amazing.
Of course, I'll probably HAVE to still be working in my 90's to pay off my student loan debt.
backpacking in New Orleans
I thought of Rick today ("Mr. Tiff") when I got an unsympathetic "pack it yourself" look. One time Rick and another teacher killed a caribou and packed it out on their backs. They were the real Eskimos there.
So I asked my classmate who's coming camping tomorrow how he's getting to the pickup spot. "Oh, we'll probably walk. We're not far away." "Neither am I, it's just ..." What I didn't want to say aloud is, I'm taking a couple heavy books with me. I'm going camping to read?
His neighbor suggested where I could park my car and walk over - and his suggestion was actually further than my apartment. "Yeah, I can walk, it's just ..."
"You'll start the backpacking part early." And he used a perfect tone to use with me - nothing annoying or patronizing about it. But still, a little part of me wanted to snap, "You need to shave your neck!"
I know he's right and I'm not sure when exactly I became SUCH a city girl as to think that for a weekend trip I can't carry all my gear. Yeah, that birding book is real heavy, but so what. Of course for a weekend isn't much less gear than for a week - I'm taking tent, sleeping bags, camer,a flashlight, binoculars, etc. And reading material. But I did stop myself from tossing in the laptop to get a bit more work done on my brief.
I added up my credits and time in school again and realized that I have to attend summer school in order to be able to get the Masters without increasing time at school. So, that's first priority though it's about the last thing I really want to do. But, if somebody were to call me up right now and offer me a great paying job for the whole summer, I'd do it and skip the masters. I already have one masters - why would I want another? Because I think I can learn interesting things in the international development program.
Even though the guy interviewing me today said I travel more than the 182nd Airborne Division. He's funny, that one.
Oh, and at this firm that won't hire me this year, the first woman to become a lawyer in Louisiana still works there. She's like 93 years old (maybe he was exaggerating) and still walks up the five flights of stairs to her office every day. That's awesome. "So what I hear you saying," I said, "Is that a career at your firm is a promise of longevity and health. You had me at king cake."
And no, there's no king cake in my pack.
Which, Jenny, I very much appreciate your offer. And I had a brilliant idea as I was walking today - how about a wedding king cake? It seems perfect for me, New Orleans, and the wedding kegger. Does anybody have to even ask what my wedding colors are? Purple green and gold, of course - which would only possibly be rivaled by black and gold if Dayton gets here and the Saints are doing so well again. We could be married in jerseys.
Although, I'm pretty upset that Joe Horn was released. That's a sad loss.
So I asked my classmate who's coming camping tomorrow how he's getting to the pickup spot. "Oh, we'll probably walk. We're not far away." "Neither am I, it's just ..." What I didn't want to say aloud is, I'm taking a couple heavy books with me. I'm going camping to read?
His neighbor suggested where I could park my car and walk over - and his suggestion was actually further than my apartment. "Yeah, I can walk, it's just ..."
"You'll start the backpacking part early." And he used a perfect tone to use with me - nothing annoying or patronizing about it. But still, a little part of me wanted to snap, "You need to shave your neck!"
I know he's right and I'm not sure when exactly I became SUCH a city girl as to think that for a weekend trip I can't carry all my gear. Yeah, that birding book is real heavy, but so what. Of course for a weekend isn't much less gear than for a week - I'm taking tent, sleeping bags, camer,a flashlight, binoculars, etc. And reading material. But I did stop myself from tossing in the laptop to get a bit more work done on my brief.
I added up my credits and time in school again and realized that I have to attend summer school in order to be able to get the Masters without increasing time at school. So, that's first priority though it's about the last thing I really want to do. But, if somebody were to call me up right now and offer me a great paying job for the whole summer, I'd do it and skip the masters. I already have one masters - why would I want another? Because I think I can learn interesting things in the international development program.
Even though the guy interviewing me today said I travel more than the 182nd Airborne Division. He's funny, that one.
Oh, and at this firm that won't hire me this year, the first woman to become a lawyer in Louisiana still works there. She's like 93 years old (maybe he was exaggerating) and still walks up the five flights of stairs to her office every day. That's awesome. "So what I hear you saying," I said, "Is that a career at your firm is a promise of longevity and health. You had me at king cake."
And no, there's no king cake in my pack.
Which, Jenny, I very much appreciate your offer. And I had a brilliant idea as I was walking today - how about a wedding king cake? It seems perfect for me, New Orleans, and the wedding kegger. Does anybody have to even ask what my wedding colors are? Purple green and gold, of course - which would only possibly be rivaled by black and gold if Dayton gets here and the Saints are doing so well again. We could be married in jerseys.
Although, I'm pretty upset that Joe Horn was released. That's a sad loss.
interview 1
Nice guys, great firm. 50 interviewed for 1 slot. Um, it won't be me. The only reason I got the interview was because of my teaching background - their mothers were both teachers.
But I'll be applying for that firm later, for next year.
The more I think about it, the less interested I am in working this summer. I don't have enough legal background to do anything very meaningful anyway. I could spend the summer volunteering while in summer school - I could hammer out a semester's worth of credits which would make the international development masters possible (just got accepted officially). This is my last chance - for next summer I *must* work. Most firms don't even accept 1L's - they want 2L's ... so there are many more possibilities for next summer. So, no need to sweat it. Sure, I'd love the income, but.
But I'll be applying for that firm later, for next year.
The more I think about it, the less interested I am in working this summer. I don't have enough legal background to do anything very meaningful anyway. I could spend the summer volunteering while in summer school - I could hammer out a semester's worth of credits which would make the international development masters possible (just got accepted officially). This is my last chance - for next summer I *must* work. Most firms don't even accept 1L's - they want 2L's ... so there are many more possibilities for next summer. So, no need to sweat it. Sure, I'd love the income, but.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
wedding kegger
I went to a bowling alley tonight for Alejandra's birthday. Everyone said, "Oh, how neat - it's all retro with the equipment."
Um, the last time I went bowling that was state of the art.
Good grief.
Ale and I have a "boys are stupid" conversation each time we meet. This time we had to cut it short because her Mr. Very Stupid was there - actually the one who invited me. He is just about the prettiest straight boy I've ever known.
So she asked about Dayton and our plans and all that, and was offended I haven't invited her to the wedding. "I swear to you, if I have money [she'll be back in Puerto Rico after this year], I will be here for your wedding." "Good. I need a witness at the courthouse."
Trish and Jessica were polite, but mortified. "You aren't going to have a big wedding?"
No. Quick trip the courthouse to take care of the formality.
"Well, what about the party after?" "Um, I haven't thought about it."
Jessica was all over that like white on rice. "I'll throw you a kegger!" "For my wedding?" "Yes! It'll be fun!" By the time I drove her home, she had the whole thing planned. "I'm not a very good baker, so I don't know how your wedding cake will be. But I'm a good cook." And she is, and she's Cuban - so it's very yummy food.
So stay tuned, blog fans. Apparently there will be a Most Excellent Wedding Party with keg (MEWP-k), and you're all invited. And Michele - no clean up for you this time. :)
Alejandra is the one good thing that came of my icky roommate - that's how I met her. Always a silver lining.
Um, the last time I went bowling that was state of the art.
Good grief.
Ale and I have a "boys are stupid" conversation each time we meet. This time we had to cut it short because her Mr. Very Stupid was there - actually the one who invited me. He is just about the prettiest straight boy I've ever known.
So she asked about Dayton and our plans and all that, and was offended I haven't invited her to the wedding. "I swear to you, if I have money [she'll be back in Puerto Rico after this year], I will be here for your wedding." "Good. I need a witness at the courthouse."
Trish and Jessica were polite, but mortified. "You aren't going to have a big wedding?"
No. Quick trip the courthouse to take care of the formality.
"Well, what about the party after?" "Um, I haven't thought about it."
Jessica was all over that like white on rice. "I'll throw you a kegger!" "For my wedding?" "Yes! It'll be fun!" By the time I drove her home, she had the whole thing planned. "I'm not a very good baker, so I don't know how your wedding cake will be. But I'm a good cook." And she is, and she's Cuban - so it's very yummy food.
So stay tuned, blog fans. Apparently there will be a Most Excellent Wedding Party with keg (MEWP-k), and you're all invited. And Michele - no clean up for you this time. :)
Alejandra is the one good thing that came of my icky roommate - that's how I met her. Always a silver lining.
pulse: 78
That's fantastic news for me. It's not down to my "normal" below 60, but that's WAY better than the 98 I've been at. It doesn't feel like my heart is beating out of my chest. All very good.
And I got a draft of my second issue done last night, which means all I have to do is write my statement of facts, argument summary, issue statements, and then revise the whole damn thing. That's my goal before leaving town Saturday morning, and then I can set it aside for two days and come back to it on Monday with fresh eyes and hopefully it is something workable rather than total crap.
Ugh, ok, time to get ready to go pay to volunteer.
And I got a draft of my second issue done last night, which means all I have to do is write my statement of facts, argument summary, issue statements, and then revise the whole damn thing. That's my goal before leaving town Saturday morning, and then I can set it aside for two days and come back to it on Monday with fresh eyes and hopefully it is something workable rather than total crap.
Ugh, ok, time to get ready to go pay to volunteer.
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