Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Yep, I'm backdating this
Oh dang... I forgot like I was supposed to pretend it was Wednesday. I FAILED!
Anyway, if it had been Wednesday, I'd probably make some comments about how I had to go into work for an interview on my telecommute day. Then I might mention that I had rehearsal and that we worked on characters.
Oh, but the main thing I'd highlight is that I was in a show on Tuesday night. It was sold out, which was super cool since we usually dont have Tuesday shows. Anyway, I played Buzzer Bachelorette, Script in Hand, Oscar Musical, ABC Buzzer Beatnik Poetry, and Repeat Scene Musical Styles. It was a lot of fun!
Then, I'd probably end the post mentioning how I was going to perform on Thursday (although that would mean I could predict the future because the cast was announced Thursday morning). And then I'd say that I was looking forward to our bowling tournament at work, even though I couldn't afford the time away from my desk.
It's crazy writing the post like this; I almost feel like a psychic.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
A little patience
Last night I performed improv! I played Emo Interview, Sit Stand Lean Oscar, Meet the Experts, and Remote Control Styles. It was a ton of fun, and some of my family members were there to celebrate my cousin's 21st birthday. Woohooo!
I went out after the show and watched one of my best high school friends (PH) play music at a bar. I saw a bunch of familiar faces and had a good time. I also ate a BLT.
What else has been happening in my world? I sound pretty awful with the pollen and what not. Today is going to be a beautiful day (almost 80 degrees!), but I think I'll have to enjoy it from the confines of my home. Highest pollen count yet! I sound so dorky talking about it, but my life truly does need to revolve around allergies for the next ... while.
I've got a really busy week ahead. I get intimidated when I think about it. It's not that I have poor time management skills; I just have too much to do.
GUESS WHAT! I got cowboy boots the other day! I'm super excited about them!
I ran into my grandmother at the grocery store yesterday. She got me some sour gummy worms!
Well, off to take on the day... No idea of what I'll do!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Oh allergies
Oh allergies, you are so mean.
Oh allergies, you make me green.
I mean that in multiple ways.
You are ruining these beautiful days.
Using tissues left and right,
And coughing throughout the night.
I wish you'd get out of town
Instead of bringing me down.
Sniffle, sniffle, watery eyes,
Your tricks come as no surprise.
My face and I both dislike you,
So stop what you're doing. ACHOO!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Slow your roll
I performed in an improv show Friday night. It was an actor's final show (LB), so it was sad, but I was really glad to be part of it. I played Conducted Rap, Sounds Like A Song/Rap, Remote Control Styles, Buzzer Game Show, and Oscar Musical. It was sold out (with a lot of familiar faces in the audience), a lot of fun, and ended with a standing ovation; doesn't get much better than that! I was also super-excited because one of my friends (JS) from CF camp (that I hadn't seen in close to nine years) came to the show. That sentence sure was complicated.
Most of the weekend consisted of taking it easy. Yesterday I went out to lunch and had a few drinks with CW. The roomie and I were going to go out last night, but we were having a hard time figuring out a plan, so we just hung out at home instead. Today we worked out, went to the grocery store, and watched about a million episodes of "I Used to Be Fat" on MTV. It was one of those awesome days that lasted FOREVER!
I plan on going to sleep early tonight so I can start the week off on the right foot. Thankfully this week should be less hectic than last week at work (knock on wood!), so I ought to be able to better manage my stress level.
Hope everyone had an incredible weekend; the weather here was amazing!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Fooooooooooood
Well, I left just after 7:00 a.m. for my early meeting. The meeting was nice and productive, so that's redeeming. I would not have been a happy camper if it wasn't. My goal was to go to Starbucks on the way to the meeting, but I didn't want to risk being late. Perhaps tomorrow!
What else? I just got home from improv rehearsal. AWESOME!
My neck is bothering me. It's kind of strange, so I won't get into detail.
I have been eating so much lately. I don't know if my body's still on cruise time or what, but it is insane! Maybe it's a result of stress or something, but I have been eating almost every 30 minutes.
I guess it's bedtime. NIGHT.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Testing, testing
Well, this is my first attempt at blogging on my phone. Okay, that was a fabrication. I downloaded the Blogger app a few minutes ago, so this is my first time blogging with the app. I did write a tiny blog once logged into the Blogger website. Why am I telling you stuff you don't care about at all? Good question.
I just got home from a friend's (LG) birthday party. I wasn't feeling great today, so I almost didn't go. Then I started wondering if I was giving into the "illness" too easily, so I went regardless of whether or not it was a good idea. Only time will tell.
I'm currently in bed thinking about how I need to be over at the hospital at 8:00 a.m. to fulfill my role as a Patient Family Advisor. Whew. I realize once a month is a very small time commitment, but when it's that early on a day when I'd normally be telecommuting, it's gigantic.
I had steak nachos at Willy's today, so that was what I'd call success. Other than that, the day was kind of rough. At least I wore a new cardigan.
Now that I've wasted your time, I'll go to sleep so tomorrow might yield more worthwhile things.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Hello warmth
I ended up telecommuting today because I was feeling pretty rough when I woke up. I slept about 12 hours, yet again, but it just didn't seem like enough. My eyes were not having it. We'll see how tomorrow goes. I feel like I've got to be fighting something in order to be capable of sleeping so much.
I don't really have a lot to say. I've been a little short-tempered today. I'm thinking it's a combination of things, but mainly that I'm not feeling well.
My goal for tomorrow is to exercise before work. Can I succeed? I think I can.
Night all!
Sunday, February 13, 2011
River of chocolate
I had a dream last night that my mom and I were swimming in a river of chocolate. Up ahead, my friend KQ was with a guy named Drew that I'd never seen before. My mom and I were trying to swim over to them.
Then, I noticed that a gigantic donut (the size of a ferris wheel) was falling out of the sky. It, too, was chocolate, but was covered in white powder. KQ told me to let the donut fall on me and it would cover me in powder. Then, as the donut landed on me, I woke up and was in the midst of an asthma attack (in real life).
I realized that, every couple of months, I wake up having an asthma attack that fits into my dream. I remember one when I was choking on Tootsie rolls, and another when I was choking on gummy bears. I realize that I sound like an absolute headcase right now, especially since the examples I remember are about candy. Anyway, I've always wondered if the dream's panic-laced storyline causes the attack, or if the attack incorporates itself into my dream before actually waking me.
It's hard to imagine that anyone else would have a similar story, but oh well. I felt like sharing! Judge your little heart out.
Oh, and the craziest part was that, as I was calming down from the attack, I heard my phone go off. I had literally just received an email warning me about the allergy forecast for today. It's merely coincidence, but it reminded me that allergy season is on the way. WONDERFUL!
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Slacker
So, I'm going to say random bullets about my cruise:
-The population was mainly comprised of senior citizens (love it!) and rednecks (amused by it!).
-It doesn't get much better than watching toothless karaoke.
-I held an alligator!
-Spinning out in a boat is an incredibly exhilarating feeling.
-Cottage cheese is good.
-Tanning on a beach and seeing snow in a 36-hour period isn't normal.
-Consider getting a second opinion when asking someone the time; the bus will leave without you.
-Hold onto your balloon hat when you go to the top of the boat, even when docked.
-Kayaking through mangroves is like something out of a movie.
-Cruises re-program how often you think you need to eat.
All in all, I had a blast on the cruise! I have one observation that I noticed on the last cruise, and then reconfirmed this cruise: Time seems like it's passing slowly for the first day or two -- like, you really think you have all the time in the world -- and then it just speeds up and you feel like it all happened in the blink of an eye. I need to go on a 4352342-day cruise next time.
This week was a pretty stressful one since it was mass email week AND I was already backlogged. I survived it, but it definitely wasn't easy. I performed on Thursday night, so that was fun. I played Conducted Rap, Sounds Like A Song, Foreign-Dubbed Soap Opera, Sit Stand Lean Oscar, Dating Game, and Musical Styles. It was a pretty big crowd for a Thursday night, so that was cool. Yippee!
Oh man! Guess what! One of my friends (MV) gave me a baseball "To Drew" from John Smoltz! I literally couldn't believe it. I am sooooo ready for the season to begin.
Well, I've been taking it easy this weekend. I was so delirious by yesterday evening that I was barely functioning. I seriously reached into the oven without a mitt on my hand. That's not a metaphor; that's the truth. Thankfully I caught myself before I grabbed the tray, but I think that speaks for itself. I'm hoping next week will be slightly more relaxed, but you never know!
It's time to read a little bit and sleep for another 10 or 12 hours. I started to feel like I could be getting sick, but I'm thinking it was just the stress from the workweek.
Happy weekend, all!
P.S. I won a trophy and medal on the cruise -- gotta keep representin' for the Dotson household. There was some kind of brain teaser trivia and I pretty much dominated. I guess that makes me a total nerd, but I have a trophy and medal to prove it.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Honey, I'm home
In summary, my cruise was a lot of fun. I had a really great time and am a little sad that it's over. I'm still kind of walking like I'm on the boat, so at least it's still at the forefront of my mind...
There's more to say, but it can wait. Happy Monday!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Bye, Mom!
Hope everyone has a good week. Love you all!
Hasta la vista!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Hola, hypocrite
To make a long story short, Saturday was not a good day. I was in my room getting ready to venture out of the house when I heard some weird noises. Knowing my roommate wasn't home, it caught my attention. I then heard loud noises again and realized they were coming from outside. I looked outside in time to see a U-Haul wedged against the cement column to which our exit gate is affixed. Well, I saw the truck try to break free, consequently uprooting the cement column and knocking the cast-iron gate loose only to be caught by my car. Hooray!
I threw on some clothes and went downstairs and outside to see that the gate had been lifted off my car. I was looking at my car to see if my window was cracked and if there was any other damage. Two of the three guys involved were trying to rub scratches off my car and I pulled out my phone. One guy was friendly and said he was calling the cops, so I started to look up the numbers to our property management company. Then, out of nowhere, the guys made a break for it and took off.
I stood there in disbelief for longer than I should have, hoping that they were simply moving the U-Haul and accompanying car out of the roadway. Buuuut they didn't return. So I called the cops and, although they tried to chase them, they couldn't find them. I then spent another 90 minutes dealing with the cops and filing the report, etc. We knocked on some doors to see if we could get any information, but the cop explained that it would be assigned to a hit-and-run detective who would call me and try to help find the perpetrators.
Now, because of someone else's irresponsibility, I've wasted several hours having to tell and retell the story to various parties, only to feel like nobody is all that concerned. It's just frustrating because people are acting like I'm being unreasonable and/or impatient when I can't even imagine how the tables would be turned if they were in my position. Not only am I frustrated by the inconvenience of it all, but it's kind of disheartening when someone does something like that to you personally. I feel like it isn't a priority to anybody except me, when I'm already the one who wasted most of my free time on the weekend dealing with it, has to listen to the screeching of the broken gate trying to close at all times, and was technically the 'victim' of the pending case. I just kind of wish people would take a moment to step back and try to empathize with how they might feel if the roles were reversed.
Enough of being on that pedestal, but it has been stressful.
Friday night I saw Peter Pan and it was pretty stinkin' cool. My weekend was practically nonstop, so I don't feel well-rested at all. I just feel so drained in every sense. I can't wait to leave town.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Viva la vida
Well, I performed in a private show last night for some consultants. It was a blast! We did one set for a great crowd! I played Sit Stand Lean Oscar, Musical Styles, and Remote Control Styles. It was definitely the turning point in my week... WOOOHOOO!
Tuesday didn't quite go as expected considering I missed the Patient Family Advisor lunch AND my doctor's appointment, but oh well. I went to the doctor yesterday instead and all was well. It was my final appointment for the protein study, and my PFTs were through-the-roof and my veins were cooperative. Perhaps that was the turning point in my week.
I can't wait to be in the SUNSHINE!
I guess it's about time to start crankin' out some mass emails. I can't believe it's Friday. I've lost track of the day with all of the non-routine craziness lately.
Another day, another dollar.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
New day, new mood
There have been a lot of things weighing on my mind lately and I'm not exactly sure why. I think that it's partially due to the fact that I haven't had a routine in what feels like forever. When I returned to work after my surgery and what not, it was practically time for the holidays. Then, when the holidays finally passed, the Atlantan Ice Debacle 2K11 kept us out of work for almost an entire week. And now, despite yesterday's MLK holiday, we're supposed to work from home this week while they move our offices. I'm not exactly complaining because of course it's nice to be at home, but I'm looking forward to establishing some kind of routine for the first time yet this year.
Things are going well on the exercise front. I've been going to the fitness center occasionally, riding my spin bike, and dancing to the Wii. I haven't exercised this frequently in a long time, so I guess that's a perk of having such a jacked up schedule. I can't believe my roommate and I got up at 5:30 a.m. to exercise. I'm still in denial.
Today I'll be heading to campus for the first time in 12 days. Can you believe it? I need to get some things from my desk, go to a lunch for Patient Family Advisors, and attend my last protein study visit. I've got a big day ahead! The first step is actually changing out of sweatpants for probably the third time in two weeks. I bet you can sense why I've been feeling out-of-sorts...
Last night I was thinking about the people we meet throughout our lives and how they affect us. I'm thankful to be surrounded by such great people. There's no such thing as too much love in this world. Just think about it...
Thursday, January 13, 2011
When I grow up...
That's not me saying I want to be famous, but rather it's a tribute to dancing to Just Dance 2 on the Wii. My roommate and I have only played the game together twice, but we are getting better and better each time. There's a tribal dance that it's safe to say we DOMINATED.
I can't exactly remember the last time I wrote, but today was the fourth day of work being canceled due to the snow. Tomorrow work will resume, but not until noon. That being said, I likely won't go into the office unless the ice behind my car miraculously melts. I know that this weekend is supposed to bring warmer temps, so hopefully my car will be mobile sometime on Saturday! I've never experienced anything to this extent in my lifetime in Atlanta! We'll get some snow about once a year, but it never stays cold enough for all school districts to be canceled for an entire week. It's been frustrating at times, but kinda fun, too.
Today I ventured out for the first time since Sunday -- made a journey to Publix. Aside from almost busting it on the way to the car, the expedition was pretty painless. Then, though, on the way home, I guess someone had gotten in an accident because it took probably 30 minutes to go 1/8 of a mile. I looooooove traffic.
Well, I'll stop rambling and get to sleep. As you can probably tell, the apprentice show was canceled tonight. BUMMER! It would have been quite the battle trying to get down there, but this cabin fever would have made for something interesting!
I hope everyone is safe and warm.
GO FALCONS! if I don't write before Saturday night's playoff game.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Stir, stir, stir it up
I'm trying to force myself to go to sleep at a decent time even though I don't have to work tomorrow. It's chapter newsletter week at work so, when work does resume, I'm going to have so much to do. I think that's why it's been hard for me to relax and enjoy these snow days. Usually I'd be having a party!
What else? I'm trying not to let myself get discouraged about my book, but I haven't worked on it much lately. I just haven't been inspired. I don't know if it's that last week was particularly stressful and this week is just so up-in-the-air or what... Maybe there isn't a reason; maybe I just needed a break.
Well, I guess I'm going to try to get to sleep. I hope everyone is staying warm and safe. This is definitely the most snow I've ever seen. In my life, probably. SMILE!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Whether the weather is cold...
It has been a theatre-filled weekend. Yesterday I worked the box office for the kids' show. I performed last night and it was fun. I played Conducted Rap, Sounds Like a Song/Rap, Foreign-Dubbing (as a dubber), Sit Stand Lean Oscar, Buzzer Courtroom (Barbara as the bailiff), and Musical Styles. It was sold out!
Friday night I went out with some work friends (KQ and SS) and we stayed out entirely too late. I had a lot of fun, though. I messed up my sleeping routine, so that's another reason I'm voting for snow.
What else? I'm going to an apprentice celebration tonight. It should be fun!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
yawn
AM left town today, so I'm readjusting to life. I think everyone is, though, given that it's post-holidays and what not. I've always thought saying 'and what not' was pretty funny. Can you tell I'm sleepy? I'm starting to feel hungry, too.
Well, I just wanted to say that I have a good feeling about 2011. I hope you do, too.
Good night, noseroid.
P.S. I played the lottery for the first time last night. And no, I didn't win. The funny thing is that someone today was talking about people who play the lottery and are truly surprised when they don't win. I actually did feel kind of shocked that they didn't pick my numbers. Does that make me a narcissist or an optimist? Or just plain AWESOME?!
:-)
Monday, January 3, 2011
Hi, 2011.
AM and I had a fun weekend! We ended up going out with some friends on New Year's Eve, but didn't do anything extravagant. We kept it low-key at a local bar and had fun. We spent most of New Year's Day trying to decide what to eat, which resulted in a quick (after four hours of deliberating) run to a local Chinese takeout place. Throughout this sweet and sour journey, the paparazzi photographed me trying to find a menu I'd thrown away.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. Clearly.
Oh! Saturday night I performed in an improv show - 1/1/11! I had a blast and played Sit Stand Lean Oscar, ABC Buzzer Holiday Story, Emo Interview (straight), and Remote Control Styles. The audience was great and the cast was a lot of fun. Hooray to kicking off the new year with improv!
I'm in denial about the fact that I'm about to go into the office. You know I LOVE returning to work after an abnormal holiday schedule.
So, I've set some resolutions for myself, but they're relatively simple. I'm mainly working on developing some better habits, which will hopefully be facilitated by my Habit Streak app. Yes, I have become that phone person. Anyway, I'm trying to develop better habits as far as exercising, writing, lung health, organization, and overall well-being, so we'll see how it all shakes out. I like the feeling of a new year; it gives me a sense of freedom even though it's really no different than the week before. What gives?!
Happy 2011! Let's make it a swell one!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Yen
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
ROAR ROAR ROAR
Friday, December 24, 2010
Hoooo, Hoooo, Hoooo
Anyway, mentioning A Christmas Story is the perfect segue into last night's improv show since we did what we liked to call A Christmas Improv. It was a fun show and I had a lot of friends and family members supporting me. A mainstager who's in school in LA was home for the holidays, so he performed with us (Damien). I played Questions and Advice, Narration Switch, and Emo Interview (changing). Cheers to my last show in 2010!
I'm very tired, but I felt like writing anyway. I can't believe it's almost Christmas. This year was unbelievably long, but incredibly short at the same time. It always baffles me how I can feel that way. You know what I'm talking about, though...
Today I got a new phone, so I'm pretty excited about that. It's fancy! I'm enjoying it because I had lost all patience with the pitiful phone I was using as a replacement. This phone is doing crazy-cool things so far and I realize I have probably only seen 1% of what it has to offer. High five for technology!
I really wrote this post to tell everyone happy holidays. This is always a thought-provoking time of year, and there are many things that make me grateful. Thank you to everyone who has helped make this year wonderful!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Fra-gee-lay
It feels like the week is flying by, but I realize it's only Tuesday. I guess I'm allowed to say it's flying by, though, since tomorrow is basically Friday. Woohoo! I loooove shortened workweeks!
Last night we had our annual family Bunco game. Per usual, I did just good enough and just bad enough to keep from winning anything. Shucks! It was fun to see everyone, though. I need to work on my dice-rolling skills.
What else? I'm editing our entire [new] website at work; it's launching in January. Most people would think this was punishment, but I think it's an early present! I felt like I accomplished so much yesterday and then realized I have about 348297329785263 pages to go. I WILL PREVAIL!
I can't believe it's the week of Christmas. Seriously. It seems like just the other day I was backing into a car and yelling about my kidney stones. Ahh, the memories! It's pretty inevitable that I'll have better luck in 2011, although 2010 has been a blast despite its complications.
Well, I guess it's time to head to work and HTML the silly out of some things. Perhaps I'll treat myself to Starbucks. What latte do I want today?! Decisions, decisions.
Have a great one! <3 <3 <3
Sunday, December 19, 2010
It's pouting time
Thursday's show was awesome! It was sold out and we got a standing ovation. Hoorah! I was in a straight scene, ABC Buzzer, Emo Second Date (not changing emotions), Meet the Holiday Experts and Oscar Musical. The audience was great and had a lot of energy, so we responded with a lot of energy. I enjoyed myself! 'Tis the season...
Friday I telecommuted for a bit and went into work for another little bit. One of my colleagues (HA!) was having her going away party, so we all went to El Azteca for happy hour. Me, TO, and a couple work friends (KQ and SS) then went to the theatre to watch the show. It, too, was a sellout, so we watched it from the cafe.
Yesterday I made myself useless for a lot of the day and then covered someone's lights shift at the theatre. That definitely wasn't in my plans, but duty called. Soooooo, I stayed up way too late again. I did get a present, though, from ES! I got the Elf DVD (LOVE IT!), some rum (LOVE IT!), and the Jimmy Eat World CD (LOVE THE TRACKS I'VE HEARD!).
I'm pretty sure it's nap time.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
DD phone home
I just got home from rehearsal. The roads were icy, so me and KW got there late. Then, rehearsal went a little longer than expected because we were working on something. Add the ice into the drive home and here it is after 11:00 p.m. I'm about to go to sleep!
Anyway, I just thought I'd document here that my phone is acting a fool.
Sweet dreams!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Roaaaura
Well, Wednesday I took my car to Nissan to get the brakes checked out because they were making unusual noises. Basically, the dude gave me a paper explaining that Nissan brakes sometimes make unusual noises. So, I guess that resolves that ... unless my brakes go out. KNOCK ON WOOD!
Wednesday afternoon we had a university-wide marketing/communications meeting and holiday celebration. We went bowling at the new mini-alley they opened at an on-campus hotel. I was hesitant to bowl because my SC joint was hurting, so I drank a beer before bowling. Self-medication. Then, I got children's-sized shoes with Velcro on them. Then, between addressing comments that the bowling ball was bigger than me, I proceeded to bowl an 83, which is pretty phenomenal for me.
I performed some improvisational comedy on Thursday night, so that was fun. One of the cast members got sick, so we had a last-minute substitution in the form of TO. I played Conducted Rap (rapping about Mexican food... how appropriate), Buzzer Interview, Repeat Scene Direction (gansta, paranoid valley girl), Sit Stand Lean Oscar, Meet the Experts (Barbara on travel), and Musical Styles (80s Rock, Jazz, R&B, and Southern Rock). We had a lot of fun, and I was excited to have some friends in the audience.
Yesterday I had to go into the office because it was an office clean-up day. After getting my Eggnog Latte, I headed to work. When I was almost to work, it happened ... I started to see the 'aura.' I was seeing a lot of ripples and it was getting progressively worse. I made it to the office and then hunted down someone with Excedrin Migraine. I took pills and borrowed some sunglasses, but I was pretty much down for the count. I tried eating lunch and started to get nauseous, so I came home. We were getting off early anyway because we had our holiday party last night, but I missed that, too. Oh well. I had a great nap, and that helped a little. Then I slept 12 hours last night, so I'm hopeful that it's gone.
I'm about to go to the gym. YEAAAAAAH!
Have a satisfying Saturday!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
breathe easy
Today I had the highest PFTs I've had since March of 2007. I am seriously in shock! It's not that I've been feeling bad or anything, but I didn't even know that it was possible! The doctor kept asking me what I thought caused the increase, but I have no idea. It's probably a combination of the hospital, the sinus surgery, the time off work, etc. Either way, I'm not complaining! Now I feel like trying to push the limit even more. I don't go back to the doctor for three months (ahh, it's like music to my ears), so we'll see what I can whip up by March!
Then I went to my (protein) study appointment and that went pretty well, I guess. It took four attempts to get blood, but is this surprising to anyone? Nope? Nobody? Me either.
What else? I'm about to go to sleep. I know it's early, but I'm really tired. Oh, that reminds me that I also told the doctor that the additional sleep was probably helping me healthwise. I need to do my noseroid. Speaking of 'roids, I'm getting a Cortisone injection in my SC joint at the end of the month. What a walking disaster!
I didn't get to eat Willy's today because I was slammed at work. The good news is that I knocked out EVERYTHING I needed to finish today before I headed to the doctor.
Mmm, bedtime.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
I rememba. In Decemba.
Well, I'm probably about to go to sleep and it's just after 8:00 p.m. I stayed up pretty late last night AND the cold weather makes me want to sleep. I just saw that the morning wind chill is supposed to be in the teens tomorrow. That's absolutely absurd if you ask me...
The ENT said my nose looked pretty bad, so that's just wonderful. He put me on a steroid for six weeks, so hopefully that helps with the inflammation. The noseroid goes straight into my nostril. CRAZY!
I had a fun weekend! I took it easy on Friday night because I was just so exhausted from the week's shenanigans. Saturday I tried a new drink at Starbucks - the Gingerbread Latte - recommended by AM. It was awesome! Then I headed down to the theatre to work the box office at the kids' show.
After the show, MJ and I tried to go to the SEC football championship game at the Georgia Dome. There were absolutely no tickets when we arrived there, so we went and watched it at a bar instead. Then we went to a wine party. I had a good time and stayed up LATE.
Today I've been good for nothing. I really only accomplished two things: 1) I did a load of laundry, and 2) I fixed shells and cheese. I also took two naps if those fall into the 'accomplishments' category.
Happy December!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Yo, Drizzle
Also, it's been rainy all stinkin' day, so the title is a play on words. You're welcome.
I am as tired as can be. Tomorrow is going to be such a long day, too, beginning with a meeting at 7:00 a.m. I think I've officially made celebrity status because a driver will be taking me to my ENT appointment tomorrow. Basically, my presence at this meeting is so in-demand that I am being chauffeured to and from the doctor after the meeting. Isn't that awesome? Anyway, I'm excited because it's my first meeting as a member of the Program Steering Committee for the newly-formed CF Center of Excellence in Atlanta. I'm going to be in a room with all doctors and researchers. I love furthering CF research.
I had Willy's today and oh. my. heavens. Unbelievable. I also felt like a celebrity when I went in there. The workers were talking about my new hair, and the girl at the register (who I thought was mute) was like, "Where are your glasses?" I about dropped my nachos because I was startled, but I told her they were on my desk.
Well, I think that's about all the narcissism I can handle for the day, so I'll go to sleep and dream of myself. :-) GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD VIBES!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Drinkin' the Kool-Aid
Has anybody ever played Purble Place? It's a Microsoft game, I believe, and it has a fun memory, card-matching option. When I first discovered it years ago, I used to play it obsessively. I've calmed down over the years, but I'm on another kick right now. It's getting to be problematic.
Bless me. I just sneezed for the sixth-ish time today.
Well, I am WORN OUT! I got up at about 5:00 a.m. and was at work by 7:00 a.m. On the way into the office, I got an EGGNOG LATTE! I had it for the first time on Friday night and couldn't decide what I thought of it. So, I got it again today and I still haven't come to a conclusion. I feel like getting it again tomorrow, though, so that's got to be a good sign, right?
Today some colleagues and I went out to eat at Top Spice. I like saying 'colleagues' because I feel like it makes me sound prestigious. I never said it at my previous workplaces, but I enjoy saying it now because it's funny to me.
I didn't work out today, but I did wear some suede boots. Those two thoughts shouldn't be joined in one sentence because they're completely separate, but I like to illustrate the way my mind works. Now (to the other end of the fashion spectrum), though, I'm wearing a tie-dyed sweatshirt I got at the Piggly Wiggly in Port St. Joe, Florida.
If anyone has any publishing connections, feel free to let me take advantage of you. I mean that with all of my heart.
Can you even believe that tomorrow is the last day of November? Me either. It's pretty absurd.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Raise your glass
I had a good Thanksgiving. We usually go to my uncle's farm, but that didn't happen this year. I ended up doing a Thanksgiving dinner with my friend (LW) at her husband's parents' place on Thursday night. Even though I missed my family, I had a really great time. It was very low-key and we just pretty much sat around and enjoyed each others' company. The food was delicious, too! I'm thankful for everyone who offered to host me. :-)
After the dinner, I ended up heading to my parents' house as a surprise. I was already out in their direction, so I figured I would show up and spend the night. I spent all day Friday hanging out until I had to head to the theatre to work lights. Then I headed back to my parents' house Friday night and did Thanksgiving: The Sequel with my dad's side of the family on Saturday. Then, I headed to the theatre again to do suggestions for last night's show. Are you getting exhausted reading this? I feel worn out just typing it.
Today I went to my brother's place and watched the Falcons beat the Packers. It was fun!
I'm about to go to sleep. It's really early, but I've had a busy weekend. I've got a big day tomorrow!
It's gonna be a great week, world!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Candy caaaaaane
Monday I went to the neurologist and basically learned that I need to stop taking headache medicine. I haven't taken it very frequently, but apparently it can perpetuate migraines by causing rebound headaches. Who knew? After the neurologist, I had my exit appointment from the study that my kidneys didn't like. Woohooo! I promise I've had probably 30+ doctors' appointments this year.
I've had some good eats this week! I had Pure Taqueria, Ippolito's and El Azteca! I feel like I've eaten a ton, but I guess it goes hand-in-hand with this time of year. Deeee-lish! Of course I've had Starbucks about 78 times this week, too, because that's officially become a problem of mine... I'm on a vanilla latte streak right now.
I ran about 3 miles yesterday and plan on doing it again tomorrow. Booyow!
I'm thankful for...
-living comfortably
-enjoying alone time
-getting a warm shower
-public service workers
Happy Thanksgiving to all! <3 Every day's a good one!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Blinded by the light
Well, I performed some improv comedy on Thursday night! It was one of the most unusual shows I've ever been in, particularly because of the ending. One of the [former] apprentices just got promoted to mainstage (MK!), so it was his last show. As bittersweet as it was, I had fun! I played Sounds Like a Song/Rap, Emo Principal's Office, Musical Styles, ABC Buzzer Beatnik Poetry, and Helping Hands Oscar. For HHO, we were supposed to be eating in a restaurant, so we also had a server (who couldn't use his arms, either). By the end of the scene, I'd eaten cheese, a cracker, and cold ravioli, as well as took a swig of expired Italian dressing. However, I'd say the more memorable part was that MK ended up being coerced into eating the cold ravioli I'd already chewed and spit out. GROSS, but hilarious!
What else? I'm really pleased with where I stand book-wise, so that feels really rewarding.
Today I went to the Georgia Tech football game and they won! It was the first time I'd ever been to Bobby Dodd stadium, so that was cool.
Tonight I'm taking it easy. I'm hoping to get some work done, but I'm also feeling particularly drained from sitting in the sun all day. Speaking of sun, my headache has been very cooperative lately. Awesome!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
That's all they really waaaaaaaant
Well, I had my eye doctor appointment yesterday and it went pretty well. My prescription was unchanged from last year, so that's good news, even though it doesn't answer any headache questions. I did get scheduled for a visual field exam test and a follow-up appointment with the eye doctor, so we'll see if that provides any answers what-so-ever. Yesterday was really rough headache-wise, so I pretty much had to sleep for the entire afternoon.
I met up with a friend (AP) for dinner yesterday, too. We used to work together at Wolf Camera, so it was fun to catch up.
Today was surprisingly good, though! I got up and noticed my head wasn't hurting, so I went to the gym. I did about 30 minutes on the elliptical, and my head didn't bother me at all. AWESOME! The rest of the day was pretty much pain-free, so I'm knocking on wood here... I did get unusually tired today, so I did some napping.
Anything else? I met MV and her son for lunch at Chick-fil-A, so that was fun. He is almost a year old and is absolutely precious. I'm usually not a baby person, but he makes it easy to make an exception.
I've got kind of a long day tomorrow, so I better get a good night's sleep to make it through the day. I can't wait to sleep!!!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
In over my head
Well, I've been working on my book and I'm feeling pretty good about it. Creative endeavors are hard, especially when you get so close to the work that it's impossible to view it objectively. I'm trying not to let myself read too much of it until I get to a place where I'd be comfortable handing it off. I know from previous experience that I tend to be very hard on myself when it comes to stuff like this, so I'm trying to put that off as long as possible to keep from getting discouraged.
I've had a great couple of days, though. I've noticed that my headache seems to worsen as the day goes on, so I've tried to make the most of the days, knowing that the night might get rough.
Side note: I love the song "Nothing Lasts Forever" by Maroon 5. I just listened to it twice.
I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving! That is so crazy! That reminds me that I am thankful for meeting new people, getting a good night's sleep, and having access to health care.
Well, I think it's about time to take a nap. The light is bothering me more than usual today. I sound like a vampire. I've never jumped on the vampire bandwagon, but I'm pretty sure they don't like light. Happy Sunday!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
What I need to doooo....
Well, this week has been great so far! On Monday I ran 3+ miles without ever even stepping foot on the rails of the treadmill. Monday evening I met a complete stranger (MJ) who just moved to Atlanta, and that was a lot of fun.
Then, yesterday evening I met MV for coffee at Starbucks. Before we met, I spent probably an hour typing things from handwritten notebooks, so that made me feel pretty accomplished. After we met, I saw The Social Network with ES. If you haven't seen it yet, I highly recommend it. I never even started to doze off, which is a gigantic accomplishment for a movie-watching failure like myself.
I'm headed to a doctor's appointment this afternoon. It's for a new study I started when I was in the hospital. Yeah, you'd think I'd be on a study hiatus given my recent experience, but oh well. I can't imagine getting hurt by drinking protein... Knock on wood!
My book is coming along! I am really excited to work on it this afternoon. :-)
I am grateful for good people, cheese, and headache medicine.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
+1 Hour
Today we got an extra hour of sleep, which was awesome. I didn't sleep an extra hour, but I like that I got up at a decent hour for the first time in a while. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to get an extra hour built into every day. I'm sure it would eventually become the norm and I'd fill it without even thinking, but it sounds so appealing. It's kind of like the way I feel like I have gained all this time when a meeting at work gets canceled. Anyway, because of the time change, I'm feeling sleepy especially early tonight, which I also consider a positive.
Even though I'm not supposed to be reading while I'm engulfed in my book-writing shenanigans, I have been periodically reading portions of a book about being grateful. It got me thinking a lot about gratitude, so I want to mention a few things that make me feel grateful today:
-Having heat as it starts to get cold
-Good food
-Laughing at random things
-My family
I saw a musical on Friday night at Emory (with ES). It was called "Pippin: His Life and Times." Someone I know from the theatre, Robby, played the role of Pippin. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was completely blown away by the musical. It hit home for several different reasons, and I'm really, really glad I went. Hooray for Pippin! I am grateful for Pippin!
Well, I'm going to spend some time on my book before I get too tired to be productive. Sweet dreams!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Purple streak, purple streak, she's purple streakaaay
I got my hair did on Tuesday and, as you may have inferred from the title, I got it dyed a darker brown with some burgundy-esque lowlights. It's a pretty drastic difference, but it's pretty cool, if I do say so myself. It made its first public appearance yesterday, and I'd say it went well. It feels pretty fitting. My friend Stewart did it at a salon near my parents' house. I just adore it!
This week has been pretty unusual; I've just had a lot of change on the horizon. I don't really need to get into detail because I don't feel like it, but it's amazing how much can happen in a week. Life sure has a funny way of happening all at once...but I'm still feeling cheery.
Today was a little weird because my face felt as though I'd never even had sinus surgery, so that was lame. I'm hoping it was caused by something totally random because I don't need to be dealing with pain again ALREADY!
I'm just writing because I felt like I was overdue, but now I'm going to dry my hair.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Yaaaawn
I slept in until about 12:30 p.m. when I got a knock on the door from one of my neighbors (DF). He and a friend invited me to Taco Mac to watch some football, so I graciously accepted the invitation. We had a really good time watching football and catching up. I like fun people! Plus I had some Fiesta Chicken Nachos.
My friend (BA) and I then met up and ended up going on a walk by the Chattahoochee. We spent a lot of time talking about life and walked about six miles. Pretty impressive, I must say! It started to get pretty chilly at the end of our walk, so we ended up heading to Cafe Intermezzo to drink something warm. Today was good because I spent quality time with quality people. I enjoyed it! Can't get enough of that junk!
I have a goal to get up before noon tomorrow. I know that sounds somewhat pitiful since most people's days are halfway over by noon, but hey - I'm living a different lifestyle right now.
This week is gonna be a good one. I can feel it!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Night owl
I performed on Thursday night and was in some fun scenes - Buzzer Talk Show, Spanish-Dubbed Soap Opera, Sit Stand Lean Oscar, ABC Buzzer Beatnik Poetry, and Musical Styles (Reggae, Blues, Country, Rap). I have an official new favorite game of all time: ABC Buzzer Beatnik Poetry. Oh man! That junk is crazy-fun! My mom came to the show (per usual!) and so did two friends (JM and SLW). Baller!
Well, I've been staying up way too late since this whole hospitalization thing. I gradually stay up later and later and sleep later and later. I've pretty much lost all structure to my days, but I'm going to fix it ASAP. I guess this proves that, when I have it my way, I'm a bit of a night owl. I've always thought that I was a cross between a morning person and a night owl, but someone who slumps in the afternoons. I think I prefer being up late versus going to bed early. See? I wouldn't be having this debate with myself at 1:21 a.m. if I wasn't a night owl.
I don't really feel like saying anything else. I could try to recap the entire week, but it runs together. I went to the doctor and it went pretty well, but I need to see the eye doctor and the neurologist. Umm, my roommate and I went to Willy's on Thursday for lunch, but I think I need it again tomorrow (which is now 'today').
Honestly, I just can't believe October is ending. It feels like it just started... Happy Halloween! I don't like Halloween.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Dinosaurs are my favorite
Well, I had a productive weekend! I ran four miles last night and four again tonight. I haven't done strenuous exercise in a while, so I am definitely feeling it. The fact that I don't believe in stretching also contributes to that, but I don't mind it; it's a constant reminder that I did something worthwhile. I might need to take tomorrow off of exercising if I'm walking like this...
Today my mom came out to see me and we ran some errands. I got a new pair of skinny jeans and some boots. We also got air in my tires and washed my car! Then we went to Starbucks and I got a vanilla latte. It felt like I hadn't been in forever!
Yesterday a longtime friend (SW) came to see me and we went out to lunch. We had such a great time catching up with each other and talking about all sorts of things. It's funny how I can still have so much in common with someone I met 15(ish) years ago. I loved our visit!
I guess I better try to make myself go to sleep.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Leavin' on a MARTA train
MIGRAINE.
It started much like it did the night before the migraine at the hospital. There were holes throughout my vision and it got to where I literally could not read anything. There were also flashes of light - almost like waves. I decided to go to sleep because it was disconcerting to look around when I couldn't see anything clearly. Even with my eyes closed, though, there was a ton of activity. This morning I woke up with a headache, so I took two Excedrin Migraines. I hope the medicine slapped that thing around.
Last night I went to the improv show! I figured that it was the best way to make my post-surgery/hospitalization public debut. My roommate and I went and had so much fun! It was an awesome show. It was the perfect mix of personalities, games, senses of humor, etc. Thank you to my fellow apprenti for making it more-than-worth the journey out of the house!
I don't have much else to say. I've exercised and written a lot this week, so I feel pretty productive. I'm looking forward to the weekend (even though this entire week has been like a weekend)!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Y'all wanna see my bruise???
Well, I guess I'm about to sign off for the night. I'm going to write for a little while before I go to sleep. Good night, world!
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Vrooooom. Vroooooom.
Well, I got out of the hospital on Friday at around noon. I was having mixed feelings about it, as I usually do when I'm leaving the hospital. I don't exactly know what causes me to feel like I'm on an emotional roller coaster when I'm hospitalized. In a way, the hospital setting is relieving because you get a free pass to feel however you want to feel. At the same time, though, I've noticed that the hospital breeds pity parties, which isn't something that interests me. Anyway, I said all of that to say that the last few days have carried with them many ups and downs - fluctuations that seemed acceptable in the hospital, but are a little harder to carry back into real life.
When we left the hospital, my mom and I went to a few different pharmacies trying to get a handle on the prescriptions that I needed. By the time we got home, I was wiped out and took a nap while my amazing mom went to the grocery store to get me some things. My IV medications got delivered Friday evening and the nurse came by to make sure I had everything under control. I wasn't quite feeling up to being alone, so my mom spent the night with me. We slept on the couches and I was very thankful to have her company.
I sat around a lot on Saturday. We got up and my mom headed back to her house. I took my plethora of medications. Then I sat outside writing for a little bit. I was in a very 'deep' mood, and that has continued into today. Then I took another nap (I'm good at that lately) and my mom came back and took me to my parents' house. It was good to spend one more night with company. My mom and I made a quick stop by my grandmother's house on the way here this afternoon.
I had some visitors today. Two friends from the theatre stopped by (LG and EG), and it was good to talk creative with them. We talked about creative endeavors, but we also talked about life, so I was in hog heaven. PLUS, they brought me some queso from Willy's. AWESOME! Anyway, I really enjoyed their company; it got my creative juices flowing. Another friend (JM) also stopped by for a bit, and I continued my philosophical discussions with her. It's days like today when I remember how fortunate I am to know such caring people.
Tomorrow will be my first would-be-workday at home. I think my brother plans to come by WITH HIS DOG!, so that will be fun. I'm hoping this post-hospital funk has almost passed.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Surgerification
I have been surgerized. I am feeling surprisingly well! I remember feeling much, much worse when I got the surgery back in 2007. I have no idea what could be causing the difference, but I'll take it! Hooray for being well-navigated on the road to recovery.
Today was kind of a blur, as one might imagine. I got picked up from my hospital room at about 9:45 a.m. to head the building for surgery. The wheelchair ride was pretty fun. It's interesting to watch people look at you as they try to figure out what's wrong. I got to the surgery clinic, signed some paperwork, and headed into the OR (on foot, which I found amusing). They gave me some sedatives, but I honestly have no idea when they actually even started with the anesthesia.
When I woke up from surgery, I had no idea what time it was, I felt surprisingly good, and I was chatting with a nice nurse named Anna. I didn't stay down in recovery for very long because I was doing so well already. My transporter came to get me again and took me on a stretcher back to my room. I vaguely remember announcing "kill or be killed" throughout the gurney journey (you like that?).
After I got back to my room, I wanted to eat. SHOCK! My mom went and got me some chocolate frozen yogurt, so that was nice; my throat was a little irritated from the tube they had down it during surgery. I closed my eyes and rested some, but I don't think I ever actually fell asleep. I had a baked potato and a little bit of chicken for dinner, followed up with some cherry-flavored Italian ice. Yum! I've been snacking all night - I'm not sure what's causing this crazy appetite. Cabin fever, perhaps?
Word on the street is that I'm headed home on IVs tomorrow. I'm excited about that because I've been wanting to write, but the hospital has been quite distracting. For example, someone is waxing the floors right now and it's 12:23 a.m. Speaking of, I wonder where the nurse is with my midnight IV...
Thank you to everyone for sending me well wishes for my surgery. They seem to have worked because this is unbelievably easy (knock on wood)!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Mi migraine
I got placed in a room yesterday afternoon, got a PICC line, started on IV antibiotics, etc. I also spent the evening watching the Braves LOSE, but at least I did it with two good friends. My arm was in a lot of pain from the PICC line, so laughing was traumatizing, but I still had a great time. As sad as I am that the Braves are out of the playoffs, we'd been hanging by a thread for far too long. Now I can look forward to 2011 with optimism and a new manager - Fredi Gonzalez.
Did I get to mention yet how much fun I had on Sunday night? Despite the Braves' loss, I was so happy to be a Braves fan. Turner Field was out of control, and I wish it could be like that all the time. We were tomahawk chopping left and right, and I just couldn't have asked for a more memorable evening. Yes, I could have asked for a win, but oh well...
Today was not a very good day. I woke up with the worst headache I've ever had. Unfortunately it wasn't going away, either. I thought it might have been from one of the IV antibiotics I had just finished, but the headache stuck around. I took a Percocet and it didn't help. I then took Tylenol and that didn't really help. Finally, around lunchtime, they started giving me legitimate migraine medicine, and it knocked me out for most of the afternoon/evening. I guess I officially experienced a migraine. Thankfully the pain is very dull right now. I wonder if it was caused by the antibiotics or what...
I've been lucky to have some visitors, and have several folks coming by tomorrow. Today I got some steak nachos from Willy's. AWESOME!
Good night to all...
Monday, October 11, 2010
In the year of 1492
HAPPY COLUMBUS DAY!
I'll write more later. I'm distracted.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Wiffle ball
Well, today started out a bit differently than usual. I did sleep in until about 10:00 a.m. Anyway, shortly after I woke up, my friend (PM) from a previous workplace texted me to ask if I could play on his wiffle ball team. They were short some girls and he knew that I lived nearby the field -- and he and I were on the same kickball team once, so he knows I like sports. It sounded intriguing, so I threw on some clothes and made it to the field shortly after the game started.
My first at-bat was a total embarrassment, but I felt pretty solid after that. The first time I hit the ball and started to run, I immediately felt pain in my left hip flexor ... primarily because I didn't stretch, didn't warm-up, and haven't sprinted in quite some time. Then, the second time, I got on base and had major pain in my right hip flexor -- like thought-I-was-gonna-have-to-leave-the-game bad. I ended up scoring that inning and, thankfully, it was the end of the game. I have been in pain ever since, but only on the right side. It mainly hurts when I walk and when I lift my leg for any reason, such as going up the stairs, repositioning myself on the bed/couch. I honestly think that a wiffle ball injury is more humiliating than my infamous cornhole injury. We'll see how it feels in the morning. Oh, it also hurts when I laugh or cough. LAUGH 'TIL YOU COUGH! Needless to say, the wiffle ball incident impeded my exercise goal, but at least I did something active.
The rest of the day has been pretty relaxing. I came home, worked on some mass emails, then watched some college football with my roommate. My friend (JM) and I went out to eat at MiMi's Cafe, and I got meatballs and ravioli. It was good!
Tomorrow is a big day for me! Not only is it my last day before the hospitalization, but I am going to my parents' house for a cookout and then the BRAVES GAME! I am really, really looking forward to it all, which is why I'm getting an early night's sleep.
I've got my Braves pajama shirt on. GO TEAM!
Loving the view from cloud 9
So, the Braves lost a very uneventful 1-0 game last night (Thursday...it's Friday in my mind right now). I mean, I think there were seven total hits between both teams and it was basically a pitchers' duel, although Lincecomb definitely outpitched Lowe. Anyway, I was just perturbed because of the umpire's botched call that kept a runner on base -- that particular runner being the only player who scored in the entire game. I literally was up in the night having a conniption fit over it. When I woke up this morning, it was the first thing that crossed my mind. Now, though, that junk is chump change. CHUMP CHANGE! AHH!
SUNDAY CAN'T COME SOON ENOUGH! I am exerting so much energy right now.
Well, yesterday (Thursday) was a really great day, despite the game. I received a comment on my blog that made my entire day, if not my whole week. It's incredible that something simple can make a big difference to someone. I find myself feeling so inspired this week. It's odd to imagine the 'woe is me' person I was on Monday when I feel so invincible now.
This morning I saw my cousin (BH) before her appointment with the CF doctor. We went to IHOP and I had a really great breakfast. PANCAKES! I was feeling so appreciative that I left a gigantic tip. Now, I know it's not really generosity if you feel like you need attention for it, but I am trying to illustrate that happiness/positivity really does have a snowball effect.
What else? My sinuses are causing pain in places I've never had it before, such as directly behind my eyeballs and in my cheekbones. I can truly say that I am looking forward to my surgery. RELIEF IS ON THE WAY!
Gosh, I need to chill out. It is 2:00 a.m. I'm going to try to get to sleep, I guess. Tomorrow's gonna be an alarm-free day. Oh, and I think I'll exercise.
LET'S! GO! BRAVES!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
How things change again...
First, to give you an update, the rodent has been eRATicated. Last night when I got home from work I noticed a fly. Now, I remember doing a double-take, thinking that I'd never seen a fly in my house in two years. The fly was dying on the floor, so I went to the library and to Publix. Well, that's not why I went those places, but anyway... After my errands, I walked back in and saw a few more flies buzz by. At this point, with my malfunctioning nose, I decided (in my mind) that I smelled something. My roommate was not here to borrow her sense of smell, so I called my uncle. He came over, looked under the dishwasher (where I'd convinced myself the smell was), and said, "Your suspicions are confirmed." He then extracted the carcass. THIS IS A RAT-FREE ENVIRONMENT. Ugh, the weight of the dead rat in a grocery bag made me nauseous.
Speaking of nauseous, the Phillies pitched a no-hitter tonight. I'm hopeful that they've now blown their wad too early and will completely flop. Rather than smack-talking, I should probably just say that I'm way excited to watch the Braves tomorrow. My boss has even given me permission to wear Braves attire to work, so it's gonna be a great day! GO TEAM!
I've totally digested and accepted the hospital news, so that's just chump change to me at this point. Do y'all know what chump change is? I've always used that saying, especially with my family. I Googled it and there were results, so I guess I'm not crazy.
I know I sound totally soapboxish, but it's amazing what can happen when you spend your time on positive things. I had a related email conversation with a friend (SW) today, and it really is incredible the difference it can make. :-)
Monday, October 4, 2010
How things change...
Out of nowhere I started getting a call from an unknown number. I could tell it was an Emory number, so I answered, thinking it probably had to do with surgery talk or something. To my surprise, it was one of the CF doctors. I still assumed she was calling to verify that all systems were go, but she was instead informing me that some tests from my doctor's appointment (on September 2) showed that I had developed a bacteria in my lungs. As you can imagine, I was very shocked - not only because that appointment was so long ago, but also because this information was nowhere to be found last week.
After an emotionally exhausting day, the new plan consists of me getting admitted to the hospital next Monday to start IVs, with surgery being postponed until next Thursday. As tough as today has been, I am feeling at peace with what is going to happen. Needless to say, I was too much of an emotional wreck to tack on the goodbye, so that has been postponed until tomorrow.
In positive news, THE BRAVES ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS. I am going to the game on Sunday! The doctor tried to get me to come into the hospital on Friday, but I negotiated my way out of it. When I was emailing the surgeon's assistant to explain my unrelenting need to get the date changed, I was like, "To be completely honest, I am a die-hard Braves fan." She was very sweet and encouraging - one of the highlights of my day. My friend (ES) gave me some Braves SillyBandz today! I have on a tomahawk right now.
I am running on low emotional fuel right now, so I'm going to go to sleep. Although I never would have imagined it earlier in the day, I'm starting to see the positive...
Thank you for any thoughts of healing and happiness that you can send my way.
P.S. No word from the rat.
Friday, October 1, 2010
I'll rat you out
Anyway, I was in the show last night and it was fun. I had EIGHT friends/family members there, so I was super-excited about that! ES was the emcee, and I played Emo School (I was a teacher), Phones (off-stage), Sounds Like A Song/Rap, Buzzer Game Show, and Oscar Musical. Since I probably won't get to be in a show until the last week in October (or maybe early November), I was glad to send it out with a bang. BANG! It was also my friend's (BA) first show, and he did awesome!
Well, a rat has been the focal point of my life for the last two days. Uggh... Shudder. When I woke up on Wednesday morning and walked down the stairs, I noticed an unwanted creature in the hallway, right near the crawlspace closet. I tried to trap him in the closet with a towel, thinking someone could help me extract him. However, he moved the towel, and the next time I saw him was when I hurdled him in the kitchen. I was literally on-edge all day, and I still don't feel comfortable sitting here. Atlanta Pest Control came yesterday and set up a few sticky traps (in addition to my real trap with peanut butter), but the critter hasn't taken the bait yet. There's one trap I haven't checked yet. I will do that right now while you wait in suspense.......NOPE. Rats!
I am excited for the weekend. It's gonna be good to get out of town and have some escaping-reality time.
Love you all.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
TOMAHAWK CHIZZZOP!
I just got home from Starbucks. If you need a decaffeinated option at Starbucks, I highly recommend the Spiced Apple Cider. I can't remember if that's the name of it, but it is AMAZING! I chatted with my friend (MV) and it made me think about a lot of life-related things, which often gets me energized. Woooohoooo!
Today I went to Willy's, which is par for the course on Tuesdays. I don't think I've ever used that saying, but it felt good. Anyway, my steak nachos were off the chain. I don't think they could have been any more incredible than they were. True story.
THE BRAVES ARE ONE STRIKE AWAY FROM WINNING!
Umm, last night was way enjoyable. I read some, I watched TV, I took some naps, and the night dragged on forever. I ended up falling asleep pretty early, and woke up to a pleasant extra-innings win for the Braves. Come on, boys!
THE BRAVES WON! (Right now.) While the Phillies clinched the NL East last night, the Braves are in the running for the Wild Card. I have a GOOD feeling about it! Now I just need the Cubs to beat the Padres tonight.
I'm pretty sure I'll stop talking right now. It would be the first time I've done that all day.
There's no place like home
Well, homecoming weekend was a BLAST! Even though I sometimes complain about the things I have to sacrifice to work on the weekends, commencement and homecoming are always a lot of fun.
On Saturday morning, I worked at a movie screening of a film produced by an alumnus from the Class of 1990. Unfortunately I didn't get to see any of the film, but it seemed like it was a big hit. I also got to chat with the filmmaker, Mark Goffman. I need to send him a follow-up email for something work-related. Anyway, that was pretty awesome. I'm bummed I didn't get to see the movie, but it's called Dumbstruck, so remember that you heard it here first.
Then I walked all over creation running errands for people. Next up: working the Indigo Girls concert. I was at the wristband tent, so I pretty much awkwardly looked at IDs. Thankfully I don't think anyone tried to pull a fast one on me. If they did, congratulations. I got to sip on a few beers while I worked, so of course that made the sweltering heat more bearable. My biggest accomplishment of the afternoon was helping a lost child reunite with her parents. She was a tiny little thing - probably about two years old. She said her name was "Maggie" between sobs. She said her last name was "Care Bear." I think she was lying to me, but we found her parents regardless.
It was then time for the PARTAAAAAY! I worked with SG at the Class of 1990 reunion. Talk about some party animals! By the time all was said and done, they had close to 200 people in attendance, which was LOADS more than (almost all of) the other reunions. Those folks liked to drink! Even though they were a rowdy bunch, I wouldn't have had it any other way. I had a ton of fun and was thoroughly amused throughout the entire night! I didn't get home until close to 1:00 a.m., but I enjoyed every minute of it...except walking to the car on tired feet.
Sunday was pretty much a day of relaxation - a day of frustration with the Braves and jubilation with the Falcons. It was rainy, too, which made it much easier to lay around being useless. Anyway, it was the perfect end to the weekend.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Been tryin' to get down...
So, where did the week go? I don't even know.
Well, I do know that on Tuesday night I worked a graduation show at the theatre. I was on lights, which meant I was in charge of recording the DVD. Now, this was nerve racking considering this show was only happening because it was a redo of a show that did not record several weeks ago. However, the recording was successful! I had a really fun time working in the booth during the show, and then went out with a couple friends (JR, TO) for a few beers afterwards.
Wednesday one of my greatest fears came true... kinda. My friend (AM) called after she got off work - she lives in Virginia. We were chatting as I made my way down to Midtown to do a little work before rehearsal. Out of nowhere, she was in mid-sentence, and she said, "Whoa, whoa, whoaaaaa." Then, I just heard crashing, much like when you're in a restaurant and a server drops a tray. She was like, "I just got hit. I gotta go." Thankfully I could tell it wasn't too horrible because she sounded relatively calm. Either way, it scared the living daylights out of me. I've always had this unrealistic fear that I would hear something like that happen.
Last night I attended the 10-year anniversary party of the house where we work. I was supposed to be working at the registration table, but we had plenty of people, so I pretty much got to mingle and sip on cocktails. When my shift technically ended, I decided to rush down to Midtown to see my friend's (JR) first show as an apprentice. Man, it was so fun to be in the audience without any obligations! The show was awesome and I was thoroughly amused.
It's Homecoming, so I have to work pretty much all day tomorrow. I start at a movie screening at 10:30 a.m. and will basically work until midnight. I know it will be fun because it typically is, but MAN, that's a long day. I'm working at the Indigo Girls concert after the movie screening and then I head to the Class of 1990 reunion. I've got a big day ahead of me!
I have nothing to say about the Braves. NOTHING.
Well, I'm starting to get impatient waiting for sinus surgery. I have headaches pretty much all the time now. Two weeks to go!
I worked out today, so I am proud of myself. I haven't felt like it much lately with my head feeling the way it does, but I'm glad I went. I plan to exercise tomorrow morning before I head over to campus for my slew of events.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Red wine and Ambien
Yesterday was a very relaxing day. I slept til about noon, and then got up to watch some college football. My mom came over in the afternoon and, as you may have guessed, we went to Wendy's. We then stopped by Marshalls where I fed my jacketaholism. I got the cutest navy blue, lightweight pea-coat type ordeal! Oh man, it is so cute. I want to wear it NOW.
Last night I met a friend (ER) at Pappasito's for some margaritas. We got this pitcher of something called the Wave, which was part margarita and part sangria. It was pretty good, but my stomach gets a little fierce when I've had too much sour mix. Man, I love that girl. It was so much fun just to chat and what not. AWESOME!
Today was another worthless day. I slept until about 11:00 a.m. and then tried to go exercise. While I did exercise for a good chunk of time, some of it was spent walking on the treadmill because I was kind of enthralled in a girly book I was reading. I came home, showered, and got ready for an uneventful day.
The highlights of the day consist of wins from the Atlanta Braves and Falcons. The Phillies, however, pulled out a come-from-behind RIDICULOUS win, which made me pretty angry.
I spent the rest of the day writing aimlessly in different journals, experiencing pain in my sinuses - you know, the usual. I literally stepped outside twice - once for the gym, and once to take the trash out. I guess I needed one of those pointless days, but it would be nice to feel productive right now. Who knows... maybe some of the stuff I wrote has significance.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
ROAAAAAAAAAAAAAR
Well, I will vomit if I talk about the Braves game on Wednesday. My record has dropped to 6 and 4. BLAH BLAH BLAH. The Braves and I are not on great terms right now, but I was happy for a win tonight.
My surgery is officially on the books for October 11. I'm not sure yet what the plan is as far as getting admitted, going on IV antibiotics, taking off from work, etc. Honestly I'm still processing the fact that it's scheduled, so I'll give it a few days to start finalizing those details. I feel a sense of relief, but I'm also overwhelmed.
I was in the show last night and it was fun! It was one of the new apprentices' (AF) first shows, so that was cool. He and I were in every scene together, too! I played Remote Control Styles, Musical Styles (80s love ballad, 90s boy band, R&B, rap), Repeat Scene Stereotypes (drag queens, drunk drug dealers, rednecks), and Oscar Musical Funeral (as Barbara Buchanan). Yeeehaw!
Today I met my siblings (and my brother's girlfriend) for lunch at Chick-fil-A. Then, for dinner, I went to Los Bravos with KW. I needed to get out and do something because today was kinda 'mleh.' I had a great time. We watched a documentary called Dear Zachary and it was really interesting. Although today had its ups and downs, I'm thankful to be ending on an 'up.'
Sleeping sounds so awesome right now! I am really excited to sleep and feel new in the morning!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
When I wake up in the mornin'...
I had a good weekend. I took it VERY easy - really made the most of having a weekend without obligations. Honestly, it seemed like it lasted FOREVER! I stayed home pretty much the entire time, mainly watching sports. I saw Georgia Tech and the Atlanta Falcons get their first losses of the season. Ugh!
Atlanta's athletic failure continued on Sunday night when I went to the Braves game with BA. We had a lot of fun! Unfortunately the Braves lost. I did, however, eat some Dippin' Dots. I really, really didn't want to witness another loss this year, but sometimes the stars just don't align. I'll have another opportunity, though...
TOMORROW! Me and my brother are going to the game, and it's at 12:10 p.m. I'm pretty excited because I don't think I've ever taken off work to go to a sporting event. It makes me think of Zack Morris on "Saved By the Bell" when he plays hooky and catches a ball at the Dodgers game and is caught on TV. The main difference here is that I requested time off forever ago, but it will still feel risque! However, I might be on TV! My brother got us awesome tickets in literally the fifth row. AHHH! I am excited!
I don't have a whole lot else to say. I got the official call about sinus surgery today, so I should have that scheduled within a week. The nurse mentioned that recovery would be about two weeks, which kinda surprised me. Now I've just gotta coordinate with the CF doctor to see if I should try to do IV antibiotics or anything while I'm already getting thrown into the slammer. Decisions, decisions.
Have a great night!
Did you hear about the corduroy pillow?
It's making HEADLINES!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
If I could turn back time
I just got home from working my last crew shift of September. Now, that's technically a slight fabrication because I think I'll be helping out at a [repeat] graduation show on the 21st. Either way, it feels good to have that out of the way early in the month. That means I have some full-fledged weekends ahead of me! And, when I say "weekends," I mean "one weekend" because I have to work at homecoming on the weekend of the 24th. I trained someone on lights tonight. I'm not sure how successful I was at training because there was only one show and he didn't really get to practice, but he seemed to get it - the light bulb seemed to go off for him. HAAAAA!
Last night's show (I guess two nights ago now) was a lot of fun! The piano guy was sick, so we had to do it musicianless! That was a first. I played Repeat Scene Direction (masculine, nerdy ninja, schizophrenic), Foreign-Dubbed Soap Opera, Remote Control Styles, ABC Buzzer Cooking Show, and Helping Hands Oscar. It was so much fun! The crowd wasn't gigantic by any means, but they were really supportive and it seemed like everyone in the cast had a blast. It was such a great end to a somewhat stressful [mass-emailing] day. For the first time ever, a patron told me she laughed so hard she cried. SUCCESS!
Today I swam some laps during lunch. I've been soooo horrible at exercising lately and decided I'd give it a whirl today. It was enjoyable, even though I didn't swim all that much. Tomorrow I plan to run for a while. I'm kind of in that chicken-versus-egg-not-working-out-because-I'm-too-tired-but-tired-because-I'm-not-working-out scenario. Time to correct that JUNK!
Tomorrow I have a friend leading a team (SW) at the Great Strides walk at the University of West Georgia. I am so thankful to have an extension of Drew's Crew -- Drew's Crew Two -- representing at the walk tomorrow. I was hoping to make it, but should have requested off from the theatre in advance. I feel loved even though I am supporting from a distance.
Bedtime for me. I'm exhausted. Even though this week was short, it was JAM-PACKED! I got my CT scan done Thursday, but haven't heard back from the doctor. I'm eager to get that sinus surgery on the books.
Good night, world!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Standin' in the light of your halo
Well, first things first, it's kinda late. I went to Starbucks this evening and got a half-caffeinated vanilla latte. I don't think I got too caffeinated, but this shortened workweek also has me slightly off-kilter. Anyway, I plan on going to sleep RIGHT AFTER I finish this post. Take that, Blogger!
Yesterday the Braves fell out of first place for the first time since May. It hurt. It truly did. However, the good news is that there's still plenty of time. I really don't want it to come down to the wire, so I have trust that they'll pull through. I changed my Facebook profile picture in their honor today, so they better not do anything crazy.
I'm in tomorrow night's show, so I'm excited for that! Also, we found out tonight that we're going to have Mondays off of rehearsal for the next couple of months. I'm pretty sure I'm in shock, but I am also feeling super-relieved. With how run-down I've been feeling lately, I could definitely use an extra night to rejuvenate - especially at the beginning of the week. I can't wait to get on that stage tomorrow!
I had a marathon study appointment yesterday. It was this big check-in appointment where I did basically everything that I did when I was originally screened for the study. The ironic part is, since I haven't been on the study drug (OR PLACEBO!) for almost two weeks, testing these things was absolutely unnecessary. The bottom line is that I'll get paid and they wanted me to do it, but it sure was worthless. Regardless of whether or not I was on the drug or the placebo, it would have been out of my system.
Tomorrow I have my sinus CT scan, so hopefully I can schedule my surgery sooner than later and proceed like normal. I can't believe my ENT appointment was only a week ago. It seems like I've been waiting to schedule this surgery for MONTHS. Ooh, drama queen.
Honestly, I know there's more to say, but I don't think I'll try to retrieve it from my brain. Odds are that it's just more rambling...per usual.
Have a good night!!!! HAPPY THURSDAY!
