Friday, December 23, 2005

12.23.05

This may be my last post from NYC. Our internet connection will be shut off tomorrow morning.
Don't despair. We should be up and running again on Tuesday.

Happy Holidays!

Thursday, December 22, 2005

12.22.05 #2

Yeah, I know the strike is now over. Things won't be running normally until tomorrow morning. So, how was my commute today?
Well, it took 2.5 hours this morning by way of friendly stranger with car in Astoria. He dropped us off at Rockefeller Center--Micah walked to work from there and I walked to Penn Station to catch the Columbia University Shuttle. There was no way I was walking 80 blocks in the freezing cold!
This evening was a nightmare. I left work at 4:30 and waited about an hour for a shuttle back down to Penn Station. It took around 45 minutes for the bus drive down. Once at Penn Station, I had to walk all the way to the East River to catch the NYC Watertaxi to Long Island City, Queens. Micah was waiting for me near the landing (he caught the taxi right before me.) Then, the absolute worst part of this ordeal--we had to walk about 45 blocks from the river to our apartment. We could not find a single cab that would take us to our apartment. They said they were all going to Manhattan. Total bullshit! They just didn't think they could squeeze enough money out of us.
Anyway, we got back at exactly 9pm. How's that for a 4.5 hour commute!!!!! URGHHHHH.

12.22.05


IMG_4150
Originally uploaded by littlekim.
Day Three.

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

12.21.05


IMG_2340.jpg
Originally uploaded by eyeinastoria.
Day Two.

Tuesday, December 20, 2005

12.20.05


Union Square Subway Station
Originally uploaded by bsquared.
Happy 30th Birthday to me!

Thanks MTA and TWU!

Saturday, November 26, 2005

11.26.05


me & ella
Originally uploaded by athrahans.
Just got back yesterday from AL. It was a nice trip, especially since I got to visit with my new niece, Ella Jean.

Here's our first photo together.

Thursday, November 10, 2005

11.10.05


11.10.05
Originally uploaded by athrahans.
I am an auntie again! My little brother and his wife welcomed their first child into the world last night.
Here is the first father/daughter pic.
Too cute!

Wednesday, November 02, 2005

11.02.04

I know I should be posting more often, but you know, life happens.

I wanted to mention that I attended the NYPL Bookfest on Oct. 22nd. This event was for those interested in children's and young adult books. I am not terribly interested, but I know as a public librarian, I need to become very familiar with the popular authors.

I had a really good time. I had heard of Mo Willems, but didn't really know much about him or had read any of his books. He is hilarious. I haven't laughed so hard in quite a while. I bought two of his books, Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus and Knuffle Bunny. I had Mo sign both of them for my nieces and nephew. They are really great books.

There were three Young Adult authors also there--Ann M. Martin (Baby-Sitter's Club books), Rachel Vail, and Joan Bauer.

The attendees also participated in a few booktalks. I attended the session on YA BOOKS THAT ROCK, which was quite interesting. I actually hadn't read any of the books, but after the discussion I decided to put them on my reading list. These were the books on the list:
Cherokee Bat and the Goat Guys – Francesca Lia Block
Fat Kid Rules the World – K. L. Going
Heavy Metal & You – Chris Krovatin
Orpheus Obsession – Dakota Lane
Pop Princess – Rachel Cohn
Rock Star, Superstar – Blake Nelson


Okay, that was a lot of links. Sorry about that. I just like having links the books and authors, so if you are interested you have a place to go.

I am such a librarian.

Monday, October 31, 2005

10.31.05


Jack o lantern
Originally uploaded by Kevin McNulty.
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Wednesday, October 26, 2005

10.26.05

Another update on my RA class.

Have finished:
A Day Late and a Dollar Short - Terry McMillan
Drinking Coffee Elsewhere - ZZ Packer

Currently reading:
The Historian - Elizabeth Kostova

Sunday, October 16, 2005

10.16.05


zero with wings
Originally uploaded by athrahans.
Here's Zero's Halloween costume!

Just kidding, we aren't dressing him up at all. I don't think we are doing anything for Halloween this year. It falls on a Monday this year and I haven't heard of any parties worth attending.
I was actually cleaning out the closets and figured I would have a little fun with these fairy wings.

Tuesday, October 11, 2005

10.11.05

It's official. Well, once we sign the lease. We ARE moving to Philadelphia.
I finally got my job offer letter and we found a place in the Northern Liberties neighborhood. Yay!

Of course, the stress doesn't end. M still has to find a job. There is still the closing of accounts, change of address forms, another trip to the DMV, packing, opening of accounts, and on and on and on. Okay, maybe I am not so excited now.

Here's a recent National Geographic Traveler article about Philly, if interested.

When will we be moving?

Unfortunately, we will moving at the worst possible time: the holidays--Dec. 27 to be exact. Right smack dab in the middle of holiday week. We are just keeping our fingers crossed that there is no or little snow.

Monday, October 10, 2005

10.10.05

Another update on my reading list.

Currently reading:
The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson
Armageddon: The Cosmic Battle of the Ages by Tim LeHaye (still trying to finish this one)

Recently finished:
Blood Canticle by Anne Rice

Sunday, October 02, 2005

10.02.05

Today we went to the the New York Times Great Read in the Park event in Bryant Park. We paid $25 for a canvas bag and then we filled it full of "gently used, greatly loved" books.

What fun!

We also met up with fellow NYer, J. We just sat and talked about NYC, architecture, and our upcoming move to Philly.

Oh, I should mention that my friend, E, from Oglethorpe was in town for a conference with her wonderful husband. I think it has been about four years since the last time we saw each other. A lot has happened in four years.

Zero was so sad to see them go. He always loves company.

Saturday, October 01, 2005

10.01.05

October, my favorite month, is finally here.

The Crimson Tide beat the crap out of Florida, which made my day. One of our best players, Prothro, broke his ankle though. I actually did not witness it, as I had left the room. I am glad about this, but poor M had to witness it on the screen. It brought back memories for him. He played high school football (gasp!) and broke his leg during a game.

Oh, I have posted a cool little poll here on your right. Please submit your vote. I am using the results for my RA class. Thanks!

Friday, September 30, 2005

9.30.05

Just an update on my reading for the Readers' Advisory class.

Have finished:

A Long Way Down by Nick Hornby
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
Blue Moon by Lori Handeland
Camouflage by Joe Haldeman
The Way of the Coyote by Elmer Kelton
Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris (actually had to listen to it in audiobook format)

Currently reading:

Armageddon: The Cosmic Battle of the Ages by Tim LeHaye
Legends II : New Short Novels by the Masters of Modern Fantasy

Thursday, September 15, 2005

9.15.05 #2


Zero Pictures 009
Originally uploaded by athrahans.
and another.

9.15.05


Zero Pictures 007
Originally uploaded by athrahans.
There have been requests for more Zero pics, so here you go.

Tuesday, September 13, 2005

9.13.05

This was too weird.

I was at the Bohemian Beer Garden, a cool little outdoor BBQ/bar place here in my neighborhood in Queens.
I turned around and saw Ms. Strickland (my junior high/high school gym coach) sitting a few tables away. I leaned over to Micah and said, "I can't believe this. I think my high school gym coach is here."

I thought maybe it was just someone who looked like her, but I couldn't stop myself from making sure. I walked over to the table and said, "Meg?" It was her. Can you believe it?

Here are some reasons why this is weird:
1) This is a city of 8 million people.
2) She was in Queens, which isn't exactly a tourist attraction.
3) She was in my neighborhood, Astoria.
4) She was in the beer garden with about 400 other people.
5) She is from Alabama.
6) She is from NORTHSIDE High School in Northport, AL, and was my gym coach!!!!!

Too strange.

Thursday, September 01, 2005

9.1.05

My thoughts are with all those affected by Hurricane Katrina. I cannot imagine what you are all going through.

My friend J. in Mobile is doing okay. I spoke with her yesterday. She has no power and water is running down her apartment walls. Right now, she is staying with friends who are not as close to the bay. Who knows when she will be able to get back to her apartment and work. She was lucky, but is still in shock.

Tuesday, August 30, 2005

8.30.05

School's back in session. My first class of the semester is tonight. Tonight's class is Government Documents. Sounds really dry, I know, but I should learn a lot. My other class is Readers Advisory. I am really excited about this class because it should be loads of fun. I have already finished a few of the books on my reading list.

I have finished:
Nighttime Is My Time by Mary Higgins Clark
Prey by Michael Crichton
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
Black Rose by Nora Roberts

Currently reading:
Folly and Glory by Larry McMurtry

Not exactly the titles I would choose, but that's the point of this class. Because I will be an Adult/Young Adult Librarian in a large urban public library system as of January, I need to become familiar with most of the popular authors in different genres.

Wednesday, August 10, 2005

8.10.05


watertaxibeach2005 009
Originally uploaded by athrahans.
Yes, that's right. There is a beach(with sand) in Long Island City, Queens right on the East River. Really.

Don't worry--no swimming allowed. I am not sure anyone would jump in even if it were allowed.

It was interesting. Watching people play volleyball and sunbathe with the Manhattan skyline as the backdrop was strange. We had a good time. The food and beer was okay and the DJ's selections were not exactly my taste, but hey, it's something different.

Saturday, August 06, 2005

8.6.05


Welcome to Alabama
Originally uploaded by Ms. Colette.
Makes me a little homesick. Just a little.

Friday, August 05, 2005

8.5.05

I know, I know, it has been a while. Sorry.

Just wanted to mention that a friend of mine from OU was on Jeopardy in July. I missed the show, but found her show pic on the web.

More later.

Thursday, July 07, 2005

7.7.05

My thoughts are with the people of London. Having gone through September 11th here in NYC, I know how confusing and terrifying these times are.

Information about today's attack can be found here.

Wednesday, July 06, 2005

7.6.05

After reading a fellow library student's blog, I am starting to think a little more about my blog and my search for work. I wonder if my blog would have any impact on my job search. Of course, I specifically mean a negative impact. These thoughts start to creep into my head as I sit here typing away. Should I censor myself for fear of being "caught"?

I found this link offering a legal guide for bloggers. Thoughts?

Saturday, July 02, 2005

7.2.05

Wow! I just heard that there were over 27,000 librarians at the conference. That's pretty incredible.

So, if you ever wanted to know what the exhibits area looks like at a library conference, here you go. And here.

I walked away with two tote bags, some pens, and about 12 free books. Not bad. Actually, I couldn't have come out with much more, but I learned from my Boston conference experience, not to pick up more than you can take back home on the plane.

I have to stop now. Lucky me, I have a appointment to have blood drawn. It is great having high cholesterol. Damn genes.

Thursday, June 30, 2005

6.30.05

I'm BACK. Today was my first day back at work.

If you didn't already know, I have been in Chicago at the annual American Library Association conference. I had a wonderful time learning about the organization and meeting lots of people. I also had two job interviews that I thought went quite well. I won't mention names yet, but will keep you updated. Let's say that both are large urban library systems.

One of the highlights was on Saturday night at the opening session. The keynote speaker was Barack Obama. Wow, this guy really gets people excited. It was great being there to witness it. The Chicago Sun-Times did a small story on the speech. See here.

I will not go into details about the conference right now, because I am getting sleepy, but promise more later.

Here are some photos for now. These are not all mine, but were taken at the conference. Will post mine later.

Wednesday, June 08, 2005

6.08.05

Why Can't Johnny Read Books by Jane?

I found this link from LISnews about men not reading novels written by women. Interesting.

Sunday, June 05, 2005

6.05.05

Today is our 6th wedding anniverary. Time flies when you're having fun. We had originally planned to see a photography exhibit today and go out for dinner, but are staying in instead. We were at a party last night and are both paying for it today. Our bodies are just not able to heal as quickly, I guess. We have really been celebrating all weekend anyway. I came home Friday to find M at home early (gasp!, never happens) with flowers, card, wine, and sushi. Awwww! I love him so much. Well, six years must mean something. We will soon be coming up on the 9th anniversary of our meeting in Germany. We don't really celebrate that, but I keep it in mind. People always want to know how long we dated before getting married. So, do the math.

The thesis project is FINISHED! That is all I will say about it.

Now, I am getting ready for the Chicago conference. I have been scribbling in my planner and it looks a mess. The week is completely booked.

ITINERARY
Thursday: Get in to O'Hare around 9am. Attend tour of the Center for Research Libraries from noon to 4:30. Orientation at 7pm.
Friday: 7am until 4:30 - Preconference event "Re-inventing Reference." Meet up with James & Stacey for dinner/drinks.
Saturday: Morning - Work registration and visit exhibitor booths. Early afternoon - RUSA board meeting. Late afternoon - Opening ceremony with Barack Obama.
Sunday: 6:15 until noon - Literary Breakfast, 4pm - pizza with fellow Student-to-Staffers. 6pm until whenever - New Members Round Table social.
Monday: noon to 5:30 - RUSA President's Program "Googling the Better Mousetrap."
Tuesday: 8am to 9am - Closing session with Henry Winkler. Noon to 4pm - tour of Chicago Public Harold Washington Branch. Hotel checkout and meeting up with Ally at her place.
Wednesday: Get in to LGA around noon.

There are a few gaps in there and I hope to network with people and possibly get out and see some sites.

Oh, and about the Nine Inch Nails concert--definitely one of the best shows I have seen. They played nearly two hours. I was tired just watching them jump around the stage. We had great seats as well. No standing up on the floor. I am too old for that now.

Wednesday, June 01, 2005

Thursday, May 19, 2005

5.19.05

I received this forward and decided to post. I cut out several that I didn't think were that funny. Enjoy!

All too rarely, airline attendants make an effort to make the in-flight "safety
lecture" and announcements a bit more entertaining. Here are some real examples
that have been heard or reported:

On a Southwest flight (SW has no assigned seating, you just sit where you want
passengers were apparently having a hard time choosing, when a flight attendant
announced, "People, people we're not picking out furniture here, find a seat and
get in it!"

After a particularly rough landing during thunderstorms in Memphis, a flight
attendant on a Northwest flight announced, "Please take care when opening the
overhead compartments because, after a landing like that, sure as hell everything
has shifted."

"In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, masks will descend from the
ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have a
small child traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If
you are traveling with more than one small child, pick your favorite."

After a real crusher of a landing in Phoenix, the attendant came on with, "Ladies
and Gentlemen, please remain in your seats until Capt. Crash and the Crew have
brought the aircraft to a screeching halt against the gate. And, once the tire
smoke has cleared and the warning bells are silenced, we'll open the door and you
can pick your way through the wreckage to the terminal."

A plane was taking off from Kennedy Airport. After it reached a comfortable
cruising altitude, the captain made an announcement over the intercom, "Ladies
and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. Welcome to Flight Number 293,
nonstop from New York to Los Angeles. The weather ahead is good and, therefore,
we should have a smooth and uneventful flight. Now sit back and relax... OH, MY
GOD!" Silence followed,and after a few minutes, the captain came back on the
intercom and said, "Ladies and Gentlemen, I am so sorry if I scared you earlier.
While I was talking to you, the flight attendant accidentally spilled a cup of
hot coffee in my lap. You should see the front of my pants!" A passenger in back
yelled, "That's nothing. You should see the back of mine!"

Saturday, May 14, 2005

Friday, May 13, 2005

5.13.05

After the last quiz post, I thought I should give a link to a more credible site for finding the location that best fits you. The site is called Sperling's Best Places. Enjoy!

Friday, May 06, 2005

5.06.05







American Cities That Best Fit You:



80% Chicago

75% New York City

75% Philadelphia

60% Boston

50% Los Angeles


Thursday, May 05, 2005

5.05.05

Still working on this project, but now awaiting the return of the rough draft of the final two chapters. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the professor will accept our analysis and findings.

I went out and bought the new NIN album, With Teeth. I wasn't that happy with the first single off the album, but the rest of the songs are acceptable. No, really I enjoy the last half of the album. That seems to be a trend with me. I wonder if musicians plan that when producing their albums. Hmmm.

Anyway, buying the album reminded me that we are going to the NIN show at the Hammerstein on the 15th. This show is going to be fantastic; I can just feel it. The Hammerstein only holds about 2500, so it will be intimate. Well, for a NIN show.

Monday, April 25, 2005

4.25.05 #2

I am still alive. Just working on this damn thesis/project. I promise more posts after this is all over.

My uncle D and aunt M are coming for a visit next month. Neither of them have ever visited me before; it must be the lure of NYC.

I am really excited about ALA this summer. It will be a great opportunity for me to meet and network. I will be looking for a job in December, so I need all the networking I can get.

I wish I had more interesting stories to tell you, but nothing much is going on. Zero is doing great and M is crazy busy at work. Any architects out there looking for work in NYC? I know a firm that needs some serious help.

Thursday, April 21, 2005

4.21.05



Your Linguistic Profile:



75% General American English

15% Dixie

10% Yankee

0% Midwestern

0% Upper Midwestern


Sunday, April 10, 2005

04.10.05 #2

I love this commercial by AmeriQuest. It is the one called "Surprise Dinner." You may have already seen this if you watched the SuperBowl. I know it is old news, but I saw the commercial again today and laughed my ass off. Thought I would share.

04.10.05

In honor of National Library Week, Thompson Gale is offering free access to 30 databases.
Take advantage while you can. It's FREE!

Saturday, April 02, 2005

4.2.05

I found this great global music site. You can sample the songs and then buy them for $0.99. Really great site. It is very well organized; you can search by geography or by instrument.

More good news. I was selected by the faculty at the QC Graduate School of Library and Information Science to attend the American Library Association's annual conference. ALA will pay the cost of hotel, registration, and food. QC is helping with transportation. Only 30 students were selected nationally, so I feel quite honored.

This year it is being held in Chicago. I have only been there once, so I am excited to visit again. I hope to visit some friends (Stacy and Ally) while I am there. It has been 5+ years since I last saw either of them.

Monday, March 28, 2005

3.28.05

Good news!

The tumor was a histiocytoma, which was benign.

Right now, Zero is licking away at his foot/leg that was wrapped in bandages for the past week. The stitches are still in now, but the vet wanted the area to get some air. We are taking him back in on Friday to have the stitches removed. Yippee!

We still have to watch him so he doesn't rip out the stitches himself. So, the stupid "whiplash" collar will still be used when we are not around.

Thanks so much for the kind words from many of you. It was a really rough week, thinking about all the possibilities. Those words really meant a lot to us.

Friday, March 25, 2005

3.25.05

Here's the info on the photos.

We took Zero to the vet on Tuesday, thinking he had an acral granuloma. It isn't that serious, but it can be difficult to treat.

That isn't what the bump was. The vet immediately announced that it was a tumor and that he needed to remove it right away and send it out for a biopsy. M and I just stood there in shock. We both stayed pretty composed. It wasn't until after we left Zero there and were walking back to the apartment that I just lost it. I cried, not caring who saw me. I mean, I cannot imagine life without our Zero. He has brought so much joy to our lives for the past 3 1/2 years. I see him EVERY day. He sleeps with us for crying out loud! I know some people out there think we are crazy; thinking we shouldn't care so much about a dog. I mean, he is just a DOG, right? Those people have no idea what it means to have a relationship with an animal other than a human.

Cricket, a Boston terrier mix, was the first dog in my life. She was with me for 13 years--from age 3 to 16. Those years were the most important in my life. When I was upset or troubled, who listened to me and licked away the tears? I am tearing up just thinking about her. Her death affected me as much as any other death in my life. She greeted me every day for 13 years. When she died, I could not remember life without her. Her death was completely devastating and has affected the rest of my life.

Humans have the tendency of thinking that we are the superior species. I don't buy it. Look, we (all living beings) are in this together. As most of you know, I am agnostic. Maybe that is why I feel this way about animals. No, I am not vegetarian. I just believe in the "circle of life". Wow, that sounds really corny. But, that is how I feel.

Anyway, back to the Zero story. Sorry if I am making no sense. I have had a couple glasses of wine.

So, we are waiting for the results of the biopsy on this tumor. I am trying to stay positive. He is still young. Boston terriers have a predisposition for tumors. We knew this going in, but I just never expected it so soon.

Enough for now. Will keep you updated.

Sunday, March 20, 2005

3.20.05

First day of spring. I have to tell you, I am happy about it. This coming from someone who enjoys cold weather. I still love cold weather, but there is a reason for the seasons, people. Honestly, it isn't one particular time of the year that I love (okay, that isn't true. I love October and Fall in general), but I like living in an area where you actually get to enjoy the change in seasons.

The South really doesn't have seasons. It is more like 4 months of Winter/Fall and 7 1/2 months of Summer and maybe two weeks of Spring. Or at least, it always seemed that way to me. Anything over 80 degrees is Summer in my book. And it isn't Winter unless the high is consistently under 40 degrees.

So, right now I should be working on this damn thesis project. For those of you who do not know the topic, it is "Space-planning in public libraries." Interesting, yes?

I will be leaving soon (it's now 7:41 am) for campus for more writing.

Oh, I did take a break last night and went to a relatively new restaurant in our neighborhood. The Brazilian restaurant is called Malagueta. The prices are reasonable and the food is quite good. I had the Feijoada Completa. Very delicious. Reminded me of a typical Southern dish actually. I mean beans and pork is pretty country.

Well, better end this and get working. Oh, I was quite upset Thursday when I learned Alabama lost in the first round. Maybe next year.

Friday, March 11, 2005

3.11.05

Last night was fun. I attended an OU alumni reception in an apartment on Park Avenue. Yes, that's right, Park Avenue. The gentlemen who lives there is a 1950 graduate of Oglethorpe.
Dr. Large and his wife were there, as well as the OU alumni that live in this area. We are all scattered throughout NJ, upstate NY, Long Island, and the five boroughs.

I knew a few people, but most I did not know. It was nice to find out that there are so many alumni in the area. I hope we will keep in touch and even possibly have some get-togethers in the near future.

I am really procrasting right now. I took the day off from work, so I can work on my thesis. I am completely unmotivated.

Oh, and here's some big news. My little brother and his wife are expecting a baby this November. I had a feeling that my mom would get her first grandchild from them. I thought that this pregnancy would take the pressure off us, but it hasn't. I feel even more pressured. I know, I know. We all make our own decisions, and M & I are on a different path at the moment. The clock is just ticking more loudly lately.

Friday, February 25, 2005

2.25.04 #2

If you are interested in what I think of the Gates in NYC, see here.

2.25.04

Sorry so long since last post. I know, excuses, excuses.

I just recently got into reading the Harry Potter books. I was really set against giving them a read, but I was given the first book and thought, what the hell. I love these books. They are great for reading on the subway, when easy reading is the way to go. I find it quite funny that some of these religious right crazies think these books are teaching children about witchcraft. Take a look at this website. Unbelievable.

More later.

Sunday, February 13, 2005

2.13.05

Nothing much to report on the homefront. Micah has been away in Rome since last Saturday. He will be flying into Boston this afternoon and taking a bus back to NYC tomorrow afternoon. I miss him.

Tomorrow is Valentine's Day. I know many out there really hate this "holiday", but I don't see anything wrong with a day celebrating your love for someone. Don't think I have not had V-days without someone special. If I did not have anyone to celebrate with, it could be depressing. Still, I remember when I was little (actually even to this very day) that my mom would always give me and my brother a little something like cupcakes or a small gift. Nobody said that the love you celebrate must be romantic love. If you don't have a significant other right now, celebrate with someone (hell, that could be yourself. did anyone say spa or how about just gorging on some chocolate) that you care about. Please, do not mope around or try to make everyone else miserable. There is too much hate out there people. Lighten up already!

Okay, I have said my piece.

Saturday, February 05, 2005

2.5.05

This lawsuit and ruling are completely ridiculous. I just had to share.

Monday, January 31, 2005

1.31.05

Almost February. Where did the month go?

Last night, M & I ventured into Manhattan. We hit Midoma's new art opening party and mingled for a bit. After the party, we took two cabs (there were nine of us) and headed towards the West Side. Well, more like Harlem, since it was 131st Street and 12th Ave. We ate at a new place called Dinosaur Bar-B-Q. Elliott, one of Marianna's Syracuse friends, did the artwork for the restaurant, so we wanted to check it out. And of course, I wanted to try the food.

We had a good time. I had the pulled-pork sandwich with a side of fried green tomatoes and washed it down with a homemade root beer. I tell you, it was pretty darn tasty. I didn't have room for dessert after that.

Tomorrow is my first class of the spring semester. I can already feel myself getting stressed over it. I met with my project partner, Melanie, to discuss our plan of attack. We met over brunch at Le San Souci, this EXCELLENT French bistro right around the corner from our apartment. The absolute best coffee and crepes. Oh, and fresh bread. Yummy!

So, earlier I promised a link to the website I did for my SciTech course. Here it is. Promise not to laugh. Remember, I am not a web designer. It doesn't have to be pretty, just easy to navigate and understand. This site won't be up forever. I will probably use the space for another project.

Saturday, January 22, 2005

1.22.05

Let it snow. NYC is expecting anywhere between 12 to 14 inches by tomorrow afternoon. Lucky for me, I love snow. And so does Zero. We took him out early and he had a blast running full speed through snow banks. He is so hilarious to watch.

As you may be able to tell from the previous post, I attended the ALA Midwinter in Boston last weekend. I got into Boston on Thursday night and left Tuesday morning. I had a great time, but it was so damn exhausting. There were so many exhibits and so many free or really cheap books, my head was spinning.

I attend several meetings and met up with a few librarians for breakfasts and lunches. All and all, a very nice time.

I also got to spend quality time with family (Mandy & Adam) and was able to break away for a nice dinner with Gina on Saturday night. We went to a great little upscale Mexican restaurant named Casa Romero. I had the Chicken Medallions Stuffed with Cactus & Cheese served with a Mole Poblano Sauce . Very delicious and I must say I have never eaten cactus before.

Well, the spring semester starts in two weeks. I am dreading this thesis project. We are actually supposed to call it a project, not a thesis. The only differences are that we don't have to defend the project and we can work with other people on it. I guess the faculty feels that because librarians often work in groups, why not start learning how to work with others now. Not sure if I completely agree. I will let you know more about how I feel once the project is finished.

Tomorrow, I will venture out into the snow again and take a few photos to post.

Stay warm!

Midwinter 2005

Thursday, January 20, 2005

Wednesday, January 12, 2005

01.12.05

M and I went to a screening of "Sideways" at the Directors Guild Theater in Manhattan. After the movie, there was an open discussion with the main actor, Paul Giamatti, and one of the screenwriters, Jim Taylor. Thomas Haden Church was supposed to be there, but his plane was delayed.

We both enjoyed the film. It was not the best movie of all time or anything, but I laughed throughout. I didn't feel that I got to know the characters very well, but I enjoyed the "falling apart" of the friends' relationship. I have had several similar relationships where you really have nothing in common with this person, other than history. Sounds like family, right?

The discussion afterwards was interesting, but I think it would have been better if more of the cast had been there. More lively or something.

Monday, January 03, 2005

01.03.05

Happy New Year!

First, I want to say that I am thinking often of all the people affected by the natural disaster in Southeast Asia. I plan to donate money to the Red Cross in order to help. It is in times like these that I am so grateful for my home, family, and friends. I hope that the new year brings hope and happiness to everyone.

On to happier thoughts.

We had a nice holiday. I was sick for part of the time with a nasty virus that has been going around. Micah had it before me and I think he caught it from people at his work. Bastards should have stayed home!

My birthday was pretty uneventful, except for the extreme cold and snow on the 20th. I received money and a nice Japanese knife. The knife is for cooking. Don't get the wrong idea; I don't have a weapon fetish or anything.

For xmas, we received many gift certificates, cash, and a few presents. I got Micah some snow boots, a scarf, and some socks. How romantic! I received a new digital camera. I actually got the camera back in October, but said that it would be my xmas gift.

Mark & Agata came over for Christmas dinner. I made a roasted rosemary chicken, cornbread dressing, homemade mac & cheese, and a coconut custard pie. The pie was the first custard pie I have ever made, and I must say it was pretty tasty. The dinner turned out well, except that I felt ill towards the end of the evening. That was the beginning of symptoms of my virus.

I stayed in bed all Sunday and most of Monday. Great 4-day weekend, right? I went back to work on Tuesday and Wednesday. My second 4-day weekend was much better. Not too much excitement, but at least I wasn't sick.

New Year's Eve -- We traveled out to Brooklyn, Park Slope to be exact, to visit Mark & Agata. We had never seen their place. Very cute and great location (right across from Prospect Park.) We had dinner, drinks, and games (Scrabble.) Oh, and fireworks in the park. Fun times. We headed back to Queens around 2am, and because of the slow-ass G train, didn't get back until 3:30am.

So, that is it for now.