In my last post, I know I made a "decision"...but I realize now that a "decision" doesn't always mean "final decision" - so in other words...who knows where I'll be working next year. I have my days of leaning towards staying with Teach For America and days leaning elsewhere. Right now, I'm keeping my options open and applying to jobs here in Chicago...I need to see what's out there and maybe find something better than what I have at TFA. We'll see - and I'll keep you posted. It's really weird to look for a job when you already have one. Last year, as I was preparing to graduate - I knew that I HAD to find a job...I couldn't work at EGARC all of my life...so this job search is different - still stressful, but different. It is also nice to know that I want to stay in Chicago whereas last year, I had no idea where I was going. It's crazy, but thankfully I've got quite a support network of family and friends helping me and cheering me on in my search/discernment of what I'm doing to make car payments after the month of July!
This past weekend was the Recruitment Team's long weekend - so I got both Friday and Monday off. I headed east towards Dayton to spend some time w/ the Buschelmans and watch KU claim another conference championship. It was so nice to be able to be with family and not have worry about work. I had a weekend like this with the Reddigs in Madison right after our final deadline here at TFA - and there is something about having the weekend to truly relax and regain balance from a busy work week. So this, in a way, leans me towards finding a M-F type job ...but who knows. Somehow, everything will land the way it is supposed to...it always does.
I'm pretty pumped about March Madness this year...I've got a good feeling about our Jayhawks and I just hope they can make it to the end! I'm always loyal no matter what...even if it means losing a pool here and there. Rock Chalk!!
~mitzi
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Saturday, February 24, 2007
a decision...
First off, I need to clarify my last post (I should have done this sooner, but better late than never, right?). When I said I'm "jealous" of my sisters and need to "gear up" when I visit them...this doesn't mean that they are not wonderful sisters. While I played (and still play) the role of the "little sister" pretty well, my sisters are always there for me.
52 weeks ago today, I realized that a "hope" of mine on the "love scene" was hopeless. I was pretty bummed and the Reddigs had come into town to take me out and tell me that they were expecting their second child. I was elated and then utterly depressed because now both of my sisters were pregnant...and I was alone. I remember Katie saying something like, "This has to really suck for you...so we decided to get you something!" They had picked up 2 new karoake CDs for me...including "Comin' to America" by the one and only Neil Diamond (TODAY!!). Anyhow, I then remember going back to the Keel homestead and Katie calling Liesel to tell her the news...I then got on the phone to tell Liesel my "news"...and even though I knew how excited she was...she knew I was hurting big time and allowed me to cry to her about the whole situation. So my sisters are basically the best when it comes to sisters. Sure we had our fights and cases of extreme honesty (Guess, what I'm thinking right now?)...but they're my sisters and always will be my best friends. And I'm lucky to have them, their husbands and now children in my life!
And now for the decision. I have decided that I will not be returning to Teach For America as a Recruitment Associate. The recruitment team is an incredible group of people, but I cannot join them for another year of working into the evening and over the weekends for 7 months out of the year. The position has been an experience that has taught me more about myself and people than anything else I've done - and I am thankful for that. Teach For America is quite an organization with a great mission, but I cannot deny the things that I denied these past 7 months again. I'm looking at positions in the Chicago area and perhaps also in Madison depending on where my prayers tell me to go. So the job search is on.
In other news: I won a free trip to an exotic island...no joke! However, it order to claim the prize I have to show proof that I make over $40,000/year. Ha!! No exotic island for this girl :).
~mitzi
52 weeks ago today, I realized that a "hope" of mine on the "love scene" was hopeless. I was pretty bummed and the Reddigs had come into town to take me out and tell me that they were expecting their second child. I was elated and then utterly depressed because now both of my sisters were pregnant...and I was alone. I remember Katie saying something like, "This has to really suck for you...so we decided to get you something!" They had picked up 2 new karoake CDs for me...including "Comin' to America" by the one and only Neil Diamond (TODAY!!). Anyhow, I then remember going back to the Keel homestead and Katie calling Liesel to tell her the news...I then got on the phone to tell Liesel my "news"...and even though I knew how excited she was...she knew I was hurting big time and allowed me to cry to her about the whole situation. So my sisters are basically the best when it comes to sisters. Sure we had our fights and cases of extreme honesty (Guess, what I'm thinking right now?)...but they're my sisters and always will be my best friends. And I'm lucky to have them, their husbands and now children in my life!
And now for the decision. I have decided that I will not be returning to Teach For America as a Recruitment Associate. The recruitment team is an incredible group of people, but I cannot join them for another year of working into the evening and over the weekends for 7 months out of the year. The position has been an experience that has taught me more about myself and people than anything else I've done - and I am thankful for that. Teach For America is quite an organization with a great mission, but I cannot deny the things that I denied these past 7 months again. I'm looking at positions in the Chicago area and perhaps also in Madison depending on where my prayers tell me to go. So the job search is on.
In other news: I won a free trip to an exotic island...no joke! However, it order to claim the prize I have to show proof that I make over $40,000/year. Ha!! No exotic island for this girl :).
~mitzi
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
do, do, do....
So it's been a while and since I now realize the vast following of blog readers that I have (my family) - I figure, I should probably update this once again. And seeing as how I still don't have a digital camera - I can only entertain you with my oh-so witty posts!
Life has been much better this past month. I just got home from the double baptism of Dom and Rose in Dayton - as always , it's great to see the family (3 sets of grandparents there for the two new Catholics plus the parents!!). Seeing family, also, makes me re-evaluate where I am in my life. I really have to gear myself up for visits to my sisters - mainly because I get so jealous of their lives and what they are doing with their lives - they're raising their children and taking care of their husbands and households...and well, I'm sitting at a desk trying to make a difference here at Teach For America...so while it is all in my own head and a friend of mine always tells me to "not be jealous of my sisters" - I am. It's my weakness and I have to work through it with every visit.
But in this past month, I've started to feel much better about where I am...now this doesn't mean I know where I'm going - just where I am right now. I've realized that right now, I need to focus on what I am doing ... and for me, that's my job. I've really started to enjoy my job. Yes, it is stressful. Yes, it is still long hours. But now it's exciting. We're approaching our 4th and final deadline for applicants which means recruitment is in full-force. It reminds of an election in so many ways...except instead of bringing out the votes - we're bringing out the applicants. Each day I have to figure out what I can do for our team to some how motivate someone to take the chance and apply.
I think the best part of the stress - is that I know what I'm doing now. Back in October, I was really bitter about the long hours and little pay because I didn't feel like I was really equipped with the right training/skills to do what was being asked of me. Now, I do...and I'm trying figure out the whole long hours/little pay deal still...but I feel like this is where I'm suppose to be.
I also celebrated a birthday last month...my 23rd. It's weird how 23 seems so much older than 22, but I know that is because I'm just another step farther away from the "college life"...and taking yet another leap towards independence. Ha! Anyhow, my birthday this year was one of the best ever due to some awesome folks from throughout the Midwest. Calls from TFA friends on campus from Iowa City to Louisiana to Notre Dame to Wisconsin, Amy in Ames, Blair in Houston, several from the Lawrence/KC area, Buschelmans in Dayton, Reddigs in Madison, and the Keels in Oklahoma.I'm truly blessed to have friends and family near and far that remember me on my birthday.
In other news, it's freezing cold here in Chicago...it was -14 yesterday on my way into work. Cuddle Duds are now a necessity to head outdoors! My kitchen sink pipes are frozen...so unfortunately I can't do dishes...luckily, my bathroom pipes are still running!
That's the update for now...just trying to live life and stay warm.
~mitzi
Life has been much better this past month. I just got home from the double baptism of Dom and Rose in Dayton - as always , it's great to see the family (3 sets of grandparents there for the two new Catholics plus the parents!!). Seeing family, also, makes me re-evaluate where I am in my life. I really have to gear myself up for visits to my sisters - mainly because I get so jealous of their lives and what they are doing with their lives - they're raising their children and taking care of their husbands and households...and well, I'm sitting at a desk trying to make a difference here at Teach For America...so while it is all in my own head and a friend of mine always tells me to "not be jealous of my sisters" - I am. It's my weakness and I have to work through it with every visit.
But in this past month, I've started to feel much better about where I am...now this doesn't mean I know where I'm going - just where I am right now. I've realized that right now, I need to focus on what I am doing ... and for me, that's my job. I've really started to enjoy my job. Yes, it is stressful. Yes, it is still long hours. But now it's exciting. We're approaching our 4th and final deadline for applicants which means recruitment is in full-force. It reminds of an election in so many ways...except instead of bringing out the votes - we're bringing out the applicants. Each day I have to figure out what I can do for our team to some how motivate someone to take the chance and apply.
I think the best part of the stress - is that I know what I'm doing now. Back in October, I was really bitter about the long hours and little pay because I didn't feel like I was really equipped with the right training/skills to do what was being asked of me. Now, I do...and I'm trying figure out the whole long hours/little pay deal still...but I feel like this is where I'm suppose to be.
I also celebrated a birthday last month...my 23rd. It's weird how 23 seems so much older than 22, but I know that is because I'm just another step farther away from the "college life"...and taking yet another leap towards independence. Ha! Anyhow, my birthday this year was one of the best ever due to some awesome folks from throughout the Midwest. Calls from TFA friends on campus from Iowa City to Louisiana to Notre Dame to Wisconsin, Amy in Ames, Blair in Houston, several from the Lawrence/KC area, Buschelmans in Dayton, Reddigs in Madison, and the Keels in Oklahoma.I'm truly blessed to have friends and family near and far that remember me on my birthday.
In other news, it's freezing cold here in Chicago...it was -14 yesterday on my way into work. Cuddle Duds are now a necessity to head outdoors! My kitchen sink pipes are frozen...so unfortunately I can't do dishes...luckily, my bathroom pipes are still running!
That's the update for now...just trying to live life and stay warm.
~mitzi
Sunday, January 07, 2007
new job...
So now that the holidays are over it is time to start thinking about what the heck I'm doing with my life...which at this point really means my job. My position with Teach For America will end in July and then who knows where I'll go. There's a part of me that wants to find something else...see what else is out there. And then there's a part of me that wants to stay on in my current position. I know that after this year, I could make some serious changes to make the position so much better and livable. I would apply for the Senior Recruitment Associate position which would also put me in the "mentor"-type position...helping train the new RA's coming in. I feel that this is what I've done in the past in my four years at EGARC, two years at Douthart, and the two leadership positions w/ the March for Life at St. L's. So I guess that could be good...I just have to figure out what would be best for me..
I guess I'm just confused.
One thing I do know is that I am finally "okay" with moving here to Chicago/Evanston. While things haven't been perfect, I know now that it was the right decision. I was basically just on God's ride for this move and trusting that He would help me through it all - give me friends and family that would keep me alive. And He came through. I'm so close to the Reddigs in Madison and just a bit of a drive to Dayton to see the Buschelmans. Plus, after deciding to fly to Kansas City...I realized just how it easy it is to get back home when I need to. And the friends that I have made at work have truly been life-savers! So Chicago is my kind of town - at least for another year. I think I'm going to look for an apartment in the city...depending on where my "potential" job is at. If there is one thing that I've learned, commuting time is certainly important.
So I've finally updated my resume (imagine the accents over the e's) and I'm ready to see where I'm headed and who I'll meet along the way. Here's to a blessed 2007!
-mitzi
I guess I'm just confused.
One thing I do know is that I am finally "okay" with moving here to Chicago/Evanston. While things haven't been perfect, I know now that it was the right decision. I was basically just on God's ride for this move and trusting that He would help me through it all - give me friends and family that would keep me alive. And He came through. I'm so close to the Reddigs in Madison and just a bit of a drive to Dayton to see the Buschelmans. Plus, after deciding to fly to Kansas City...I realized just how it easy it is to get back home when I need to. And the friends that I have made at work have truly been life-savers! So Chicago is my kind of town - at least for another year. I think I'm going to look for an apartment in the city...depending on where my "potential" job is at. If there is one thing that I've learned, commuting time is certainly important.
So I've finally updated my resume (imagine the accents over the e's) and I'm ready to see where I'm headed and who I'll meet along the way. Here's to a blessed 2007!
-mitzi
Sunday, December 03, 2006
because i knew you...
My aunt, Vicki, is in town this weekend for a conference and so I'm lucky enough to share her cozy hotel room here at the Drake Hotel. The Drake is certainly out of the norm of my previous hotel/motel stays...as I got out my car on the very busy side street off the Magnificent Mile...I had to think to myself, "You're not in Kansas anymore"...or at least "You're not at a Holiday Inn Express anymore". So after the stress of valet parking (I have no idea where my car is right now) and the stress of trying to figure out how to not get them to take my bags to my room...I made it to my aunt basically without any injuries.
Yesterday was a beautiful day in the city and it made me come to love it. Although it was very cold and windy...and the crowds were definitely in full force at Macy's, there's something about being in a beautiful town with people you know...or even just one person. My countdown to my arrival to Lawrence has been in my head since July, but each time someone comes to visit...I almost forget about Lawrence. I just love being with the people that know me. Is that selfish? Egotisitical? Or maybe just human.
Vicki and I had a lovely lunch at a little Italian place (a little more upscale than Cupini's that I remember enjoying w/ the Reddigs). Anyhow, Vicki order a glass of wine...so I followed with the "I'll have the same" line...and we toasted to a fun weekend with eachother. Little did we know that when you say "I'd like just a nice red wine" and the server responds "Yes, I can fine you a perfect fit"...it means that the glass of wine will end up costing you more than food on your plate. Lesson learned: Always, always look at a price list. :) But, it was a very nice red wine.
After an afternoon along Michigan Avenue, we went to Mass at Holy Name Cathedral. I think I might start going to this parish instead of St. A's in Evanston. It would be a drive every Sunday, but it might be worth it. They have a 20/30 somethings group there and I felt during the liturgy that same feeling that I would get at St. Lawrence...home. The priest's homily was also very inspiring...as he discussed living a balanced life through the advise of his aunt, "God made the day 24 hours. 8 for sleeping. 8 for working. And 8 for diversion." I wish I could say that I lived this way, but I don't...but it made me wonder what the world would be like if we all lived this way. He also discuss CPR---Courtesty, Politeness, and Respect. It is crazy how something so simple can make such a impact and and make you say "Oh wow" (like my niece, Mary Ann). Anyhow, CPR is how we should live our lives...Courteous in what we say, Polite in how we act, and Respectful in our attitude. I don't know...it's cheesy, but sometimes cheese is profound (and yes, you can quote me on that).
Next up was "Wicked"...for those of your Broadway musical fans out there...go see this show...NOW!! It is such an amazing storyline and I must read the book now. The music was beautiful...and one song in particular just centered me on the CPR priniciple. I remember learning at Mass or in one of St. Lawrence's classes that each new day, each new person you meet...you can have truly affect them. Maybe not right away...and maybe not for several years after you have lost complete connection with them...but even a little simple thing can make them remember you and you may never ever know. I know there are so many people in my life that have imprinted something in me...whether it was faith, confidence, humor, love...anyhow, I know I'm just reflecting here, but I guess in these past few months here "on my own", I just need to reflect so that I can figure out where I'm suppose to go next. So in the meantime, I'll leave you with this...a few lyrics from "Wicked"
I've heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them
And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you
~mitzi
Yesterday was a beautiful day in the city and it made me come to love it. Although it was very cold and windy...and the crowds were definitely in full force at Macy's, there's something about being in a beautiful town with people you know...or even just one person. My countdown to my arrival to Lawrence has been in my head since July, but each time someone comes to visit...I almost forget about Lawrence. I just love being with the people that know me. Is that selfish? Egotisitical? Or maybe just human.
Vicki and I had a lovely lunch at a little Italian place (a little more upscale than Cupini's that I remember enjoying w/ the Reddigs). Anyhow, Vicki order a glass of wine...so I followed with the "I'll have the same" line...and we toasted to a fun weekend with eachother. Little did we know that when you say "I'd like just a nice red wine" and the server responds "Yes, I can fine you a perfect fit"...it means that the glass of wine will end up costing you more than food on your plate. Lesson learned: Always, always look at a price list. :) But, it was a very nice red wine.
After an afternoon along Michigan Avenue, we went to Mass at Holy Name Cathedral. I think I might start going to this parish instead of St. A's in Evanston. It would be a drive every Sunday, but it might be worth it. They have a 20/30 somethings group there and I felt during the liturgy that same feeling that I would get at St. Lawrence...home. The priest's homily was also very inspiring...as he discussed living a balanced life through the advise of his aunt, "God made the day 24 hours. 8 for sleeping. 8 for working. And 8 for diversion." I wish I could say that I lived this way, but I don't...but it made me wonder what the world would be like if we all lived this way. He also discuss CPR---Courtesty, Politeness, and Respect. It is crazy how something so simple can make such a impact and and make you say "Oh wow" (like my niece, Mary Ann). Anyhow, CPR is how we should live our lives...Courteous in what we say, Polite in how we act, and Respectful in our attitude. I don't know...it's cheesy, but sometimes cheese is profound (and yes, you can quote me on that).
Next up was "Wicked"...for those of your Broadway musical fans out there...go see this show...NOW!! It is such an amazing storyline and I must read the book now. The music was beautiful...and one song in particular just centered me on the CPR priniciple. I remember learning at Mass or in one of St. Lawrence's classes that each new day, each new person you meet...you can have truly affect them. Maybe not right away...and maybe not for several years after you have lost complete connection with them...but even a little simple thing can make them remember you and you may never ever know. I know there are so many people in my life that have imprinted something in me...whether it was faith, confidence, humor, love...anyhow, I know I'm just reflecting here, but I guess in these past few months here "on my own", I just need to reflect so that I can figure out where I'm suppose to go next. So in the meantime, I'll leave you with this...a few lyrics from "Wicked"
I've heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them
And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you
~mitzi
Saturday, November 04, 2006
correction...
Okay, so I'm an idiot...it's Rose Therese Reddig and not whatever I put earlier...sorry Rose (and thanks Robert for correcting me)!! I think there might be accents on the Therese as well...hmmm.
Some pictures here: with Dominic (in Dayton) and with Mary Ann and Rose (in Madison)
~mitzi
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
still here...
Yeah, yeah...I know it has been quite a long time since my last post...but lots of things have been going on. Both of my sisters gave birth to their children...Dominic Joseph Buschelman on October 11th and Rose Terese Reddig on October 28th. It really is amazing seeing these little ones. It makes me realize what is truly important in my life and no job can take me away from my family.
I'm not going to lie...the job has been a little rough this past month. I've been pulling some pretty long hours, but all I can say is that I hope everything comes through for my team on Sunday...our next deadline. We really worked hard this month and I just want something to show for all of the hours we have put in...we'll see.
I'll post again soon. I just wanted you to know that I'm still here....just a little busy with new babies and work...
~mitzi
I'm not going to lie...the job has been a little rough this past month. I've been pulling some pretty long hours, but all I can say is that I hope everything comes through for my team on Sunday...our next deadline. We really worked hard this month and I just want something to show for all of the hours we have put in...we'll see.
I'll post again soon. I just wanted you to know that I'm still here....just a little busy with new babies and work...
~mitzi
Saturday, September 30, 2006
parking lot...
Do you ever look at pictures of yourself from when you were little and wonder how you ended up where you are today? I guess I keep thinking...what happened? I use to be this kid w/ a tri-cycle trying to keep up with my older siblings as we made our way to the "parking lot" about 2 blocks away from our house. To me, the "parking lot" was freedom and independence...as we would just around in circles on our bikes. Yeah, circles...that was it. Sometimes there was a gigantic puddle that made it a little more interesting as we splashed through it. I can't believe how many hours we would spend there...going around in circles.
And now that freedom/independence is real and not just a trip to the parking lot. Sure, I still owe my parents big time in the financial sense...but for the most part, I'm making my own decisions...when did I grow up?
Anyhow, to "update: Work is going well...the hours are still long...but there's nothing I can really do about it. Hindsight is 20/20 and if I had known that working these long hours would be a part of the deal, I know I would have made some different decisions. However, I made a commitment and I don't quit. I didn't take this job, for the job...but for the experience in a new city away from everything that I have basically ever known my entire life. I'm certainly experiencing something new...it just that my experience is really only my job. Every once and a while there's something else, but mainly it's the job. Oh well. It is not the best situation...but I'm trying to make the best out of the situation I'm in. If that makes sense. I guess the thing that bothers me is that I am usually involved with so many different things as I was in college...but now it's just the job. I don't really have time for much else...but I guess this year will help me figure out more about what I want "to do" in my life and trying to figure out who I become. I'm starting to get the "what are you doing next year" question more and more...so it is probably time to actually start something in that area...I just don't know right now and I'm trying to get through each day...but "next year" will show up soon.
In other thoughts: is anyone else perplexed by the fact that the new show "Friday Night Lights" is going to air on Tuesdays? Yeah, I am.
~mitzi
And now that freedom/independence is real and not just a trip to the parking lot. Sure, I still owe my parents big time in the financial sense...but for the most part, I'm making my own decisions...when did I grow up?
Anyhow, to "update: Work is going well...the hours are still long...but there's nothing I can really do about it. Hindsight is 20/20 and if I had known that working these long hours would be a part of the deal, I know I would have made some different decisions. However, I made a commitment and I don't quit. I didn't take this job, for the job...but for the experience in a new city away from everything that I have basically ever known my entire life. I'm certainly experiencing something new...it just that my experience is really only my job. Every once and a while there's something else, but mainly it's the job. Oh well. It is not the best situation...but I'm trying to make the best out of the situation I'm in. If that makes sense. I guess the thing that bothers me is that I am usually involved with so many different things as I was in college...but now it's just the job. I don't really have time for much else...but I guess this year will help me figure out more about what I want "to do" in my life and trying to figure out who I become. I'm starting to get the "what are you doing next year" question more and more...so it is probably time to actually start something in that area...I just don't know right now and I'm trying to get through each day...but "next year" will show up soon.
In other thoughts: is anyone else perplexed by the fact that the new show "Friday Night Lights" is going to air on Tuesdays? Yeah, I am.
~mitzi
Sunday, September 10, 2006
an update...
Yeah, yeah...I know it has been a long time. I was just realizing that since my last post, I've been to Dayton for Liesel's baby shower and to Madison twice for Fritz's visit and the tradition Labor Day Weekend w/ the Reddigs. It looks like I'm in for a few weeks of non-family time...but I guess this is the time where I need to figure out if I can actually live by myself on the weekends.
Since I've moved here to Evanston my weekends have been as such: In NYC for training (two weekends), parents in town, conference in Chicago, to Madison w/ Fritz, to Dayton, to Madison...and now I'm here. I wish I could lie and say I'm not lonely, but I am...maybe not during the week, but definitely each time someone comes and visits...and then leaves. I get so used to someone being in the apartment with me, even if it is just for one night...oh well. Something to deal with.
Anyhow, work is going pretty well. My schedule has changed since the last post...I now work at least 12 hours a day. Those 12 hours are in the office, but then I do about an hour of work or so when I get home depending on which campus my Recruitment Director is on or has coming up. I've got a schedule now for what I need to get done for each of his visits, so that makes my life a little more organized, but then there's the extra projects on the side that end up taking more time than I have...but what can you do.
People keep asking me what I'm doing next year and I just want to say that I really haven't had time to think about it. I could be offered a second year in the position that I have now, but I think it would be hard to do especially if I'm paired w/ a different Recruitment Director. People have also asked me if I'm going to apply for Teach For America's teaching corps...honestly, I don't know. It really is quite an amazing program, but I don't know if it is the best thing for me. I'm also looking at the ACE (Alliance for Catholic Education) program through Notre Dame...basically it looks like the "Catholic" version of Teach For America...which I think could be more my area.
I guess I need to figure out if I really feel like I could teach. I mean, I decided awhile back that I didn't want to teach and switched my major...and I really like the "planning/coordinating" aspect of my job. So either I decide to go w/ this teaching thing or try to find something else. 'Course, I could always go back to school and become a nurse...I know Robert is still holding out for that one.
I'll try to keep this more up to date, but you'll just have to be patient.
-mitzi
Since I've moved here to Evanston my weekends have been as such: In NYC for training (two weekends), parents in town, conference in Chicago, to Madison w/ Fritz, to Dayton, to Madison...and now I'm here. I wish I could lie and say I'm not lonely, but I am...maybe not during the week, but definitely each time someone comes and visits...and then leaves. I get so used to someone being in the apartment with me, even if it is just for one night...oh well. Something to deal with.
Anyhow, work is going pretty well. My schedule has changed since the last post...I now work at least 12 hours a day. Those 12 hours are in the office, but then I do about an hour of work or so when I get home depending on which campus my Recruitment Director is on or has coming up. I've got a schedule now for what I need to get done for each of his visits, so that makes my life a little more organized, but then there's the extra projects on the side that end up taking more time than I have...but what can you do.
People keep asking me what I'm doing next year and I just want to say that I really haven't had time to think about it. I could be offered a second year in the position that I have now, but I think it would be hard to do especially if I'm paired w/ a different Recruitment Director. People have also asked me if I'm going to apply for Teach For America's teaching corps...honestly, I don't know. It really is quite an amazing program, but I don't know if it is the best thing for me. I'm also looking at the ACE (Alliance for Catholic Education) program through Notre Dame...basically it looks like the "Catholic" version of Teach For America...which I think could be more my area.
I guess I need to figure out if I really feel like I could teach. I mean, I decided awhile back that I didn't want to teach and switched my major...and I really like the "planning/coordinating" aspect of my job. So either I decide to go w/ this teaching thing or try to find something else. 'Course, I could always go back to school and become a nurse...I know Robert is still holding out for that one.
I'll try to keep this more up to date, but you'll just have to be patient.
-mitzi
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
a month later...
Can you believe it was only a month ago that I move here to Evanston? Me neither. Some days I feel like I've been here forever and then other days not so much... It's crazy to think that things are getting started back up at KU now. Move-In Day, the first hall meeting, temp-shift sign-up, Traditions Night, Hawk Week, the Opening Mass at St. L's...and of course the first day of classes.
As much stress as the first week is...I miss it so much. I miss Lawrence and more importantly the people in it. Besides work, I don't really know anyone. I haven't been "out"...but then again, who would I go out with? And frankly, when do I have time to go out? My schedule during the week goes about like this:
4:45am-Alarm get up and get breakfast, make lunch for the day
5:00am-Shower, dress, get ready for work
5:51am/6:03am-Catch Bus to nearest 'L' stop
5:56am/6:12am-Take the 'L' to my office
7:00am-5:30pm-Work
6:45pm-Get back home, eat dinner, catch up on e-mail and snail mail (aka bills).
9:30pm-Go to bed.
Yeah, so my life is a little anti-social for the most part during the week, but the weekends are what drive me to get through Monday-Friday. However, I won't be in-town for a weekend until probably after Labor Day...which is fine. I'm so excited to see my siblings, niece, and nephew this weekend...and then head to Dayton the next weekend. But I still feel like I haven't made any friends here.
I miss my friends at Douthart, the 'Garc, and St. L's...they were always there and would be there w/ a hug no matter what. The thing about living alone is that there is no one there to ask how your day was...I miss that the most. Strangely, I miss the 47 other women that I lived with who would always greet me as I walked in the door...even if it was a just a note on my tag saying that the 2nd floor bathroom needed to be fixed (again). I miss seeing Amy at her desk working on her honor's thesis. I miss walking into church and seeing all my friends praying in the front pews. I miss it all...
...but yet, I know I'm suppose to be here. I don't know why...but I am. I am happy w/ my job and where I live...I just wish there was someone here to share it with...
~mitzi
As much stress as the first week is...I miss it so much. I miss Lawrence and more importantly the people in it. Besides work, I don't really know anyone. I haven't been "out"...but then again, who would I go out with? And frankly, when do I have time to go out? My schedule during the week goes about like this:
4:45am-Alarm get up and get breakfast, make lunch for the day
5:00am-Shower, dress, get ready for work
5:51am/6:03am-Catch Bus to nearest 'L' stop
5:56am/6:12am-Take the 'L' to my office
7:00am-5:30pm-Work
6:45pm-Get back home, eat dinner, catch up on e-mail and snail mail (aka bills).
9:30pm-Go to bed.
Yeah, so my life is a little anti-social for the most part during the week, but the weekends are what drive me to get through Monday-Friday. However, I won't be in-town for a weekend until probably after Labor Day...which is fine. I'm so excited to see my siblings, niece, and nephew this weekend...and then head to Dayton the next weekend. But I still feel like I haven't made any friends here.
I miss my friends at Douthart, the 'Garc, and St. L's...they were always there and would be there w/ a hug no matter what. The thing about living alone is that there is no one there to ask how your day was...I miss that the most. Strangely, I miss the 47 other women that I lived with who would always greet me as I walked in the door...even if it was a just a note on my tag saying that the 2nd floor bathroom needed to be fixed (again). I miss seeing Amy at her desk working on her honor's thesis. I miss walking into church and seeing all my friends praying in the front pews. I miss it all...
...but yet, I know I'm suppose to be here. I don't know why...but I am. I am happy w/ my job and where I live...I just wish there was someone here to share it with...
~mitzi
Sunday, August 06, 2006
long hours...
My parents just left after a little visit w/ me here in Evanston. We were able to go up in the Sears Tower and ride the CTA system for probably about 4 hours total...but it was nice...and the Sears Tower is pretty tall...no lie.
Work is going really well. My RD is really great to work with and my work is what I'm good at...so that helps things. I work long hours, but I think here at the beginning that's expected. I hope that maybe once we get past the first application deadline things will be a little less crazy. Although, I feel on top of things. I think it comes from the fact that I have 10 hours a day to get things done. Shoot, back during the March and Veritas planning...I was trying to find one hour to get things done for both of them, plus I had work and school to deal with as well.
I feel like my RD and I are pretty efficient...and it seems like were ahead of many of the other teams.
The thing that sucks about the long hours is that I don't have that much time during the week to "do things"...but I certainly have to make use of my weekends!
~mitzi
P.S. Don't even get me started on le Tour...what the heck is going on, Floyd?? I really don't know who to believe...Greg LeMond (3-time Tour champion) has come out saying that Floyd just needs to own up for the good of the sport...and for the good of American athletes who compete on foriegn soil. Interesting fact: Floyd is the second former Lance teammate to be suspended ...Tyler Hamilton has also failed a drug test...crazy times.
Work is going really well. My RD is really great to work with and my work is what I'm good at...so that helps things. I work long hours, but I think here at the beginning that's expected. I hope that maybe once we get past the first application deadline things will be a little less crazy. Although, I feel on top of things. I think it comes from the fact that I have 10 hours a day to get things done. Shoot, back during the March and Veritas planning...I was trying to find one hour to get things done for both of them, plus I had work and school to deal with as well.
I feel like my RD and I are pretty efficient...and it seems like were ahead of many of the other teams.
The thing that sucks about the long hours is that I don't have that much time during the week to "do things"...but I certainly have to make use of my weekends!
~mitzi
P.S. Don't even get me started on le Tour...what the heck is going on, Floyd?? I really don't know who to believe...Greg LeMond (3-time Tour champion) has come out saying that Floyd just needs to own up for the good of the sport...and for the good of American athletes who compete on foriegn soil. Interesting fact: Floyd is the second former Lance teammate to be suspended ...Tyler Hamilton has also failed a drug test...crazy times.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
long time, no post...
Yeah, yeah, it has been a while since my last post...but seeing as how I was without internet service for about a week...it really hasn't been that long. So to update y'all...
I'm in Evanston, IL now...it was pretty stressful getting everything ready to go and then driving up here for the move, but thankfully I had the help of my mom and siblings in the moving process. The apartment is set up and if I had a digital camera, I would post pictures...but you'll just have to come and visit me if you want to see it all! After the Buschelmans and Reddigs headed back to their homes, it was just me and my mom here for about four days. We got everything unpacked and purchased a couple of new things to make my apartment a little more home-y. I'm looking forward to coming home from the office and having a nice place to relax.
After my mom left, I started in on the pages and pages of reading for my pre-conference work for Teach For America...pretty intense. I left a week ago for NYC and just got back today. The training conference was intense (can't think of another word...sorry). They created a simulation for the entire week so that we learned everything we would need to get started in our recruitment at the universities that we are in charge of.
To explain my position a little better...I work as a Recruitment Associate (RA) for my Recruitment Director (RD) making up the Great Plains Recruitment Team (GPRT). My RD travels to the six universities that our team has and, to put it simply, recruits. He'll talk to potential applicants and help them learn more about the opportunities that the TFA experience has to offer. I plan all of his appointments and travel, while helping drive the campaign strategy that he has laid out for the different universities. I will also maintain the data for the GPRT concerning the e-mail correspondence, university events, and the success of these things...etc...
The thing about Teach For America is that it runs with a definite corporate mind-set...however, the objective or end goal is not money, but putting exceptional leaders in the classrooms that need it the most. So while the conference felt like a corporate business conference...there was always the constant reminder that TFA is non-profit and simply wanting to provide all children that chance to have an excellent education.
I'm really excited about my job...it will be challenging, but my RD seems like a really great person...as do all the people that will be in the Chicago office with me.
Get this, TFA originally wanted my RD to have his headquarters in Lawrence, KS...since KU is one of our schools...if only... :)
I keep telling myself that this (Chicago/Evanston) is where I'm suppose to be...it is going to be hard as I continue to adjust to living alone and paying bills, but I think I can do it...I just have to stay open to whatever comes my way.
~mitzi
P.S. Yeah, I can't comment that much on le Tour because I didn't have cable/internet until the last day...I'm happy for Floyd, even though he wasn't my favorite to win...I just hope this drug thing isn't true...
I'm in Evanston, IL now...it was pretty stressful getting everything ready to go and then driving up here for the move, but thankfully I had the help of my mom and siblings in the moving process. The apartment is set up and if I had a digital camera, I would post pictures...but you'll just have to come and visit me if you want to see it all! After the Buschelmans and Reddigs headed back to their homes, it was just me and my mom here for about four days. We got everything unpacked and purchased a couple of new things to make my apartment a little more home-y. I'm looking forward to coming home from the office and having a nice place to relax.
After my mom left, I started in on the pages and pages of reading for my pre-conference work for Teach For America...pretty intense. I left a week ago for NYC and just got back today. The training conference was intense (can't think of another word...sorry). They created a simulation for the entire week so that we learned everything we would need to get started in our recruitment at the universities that we are in charge of.
To explain my position a little better...I work as a Recruitment Associate (RA) for my Recruitment Director (RD) making up the Great Plains Recruitment Team (GPRT). My RD travels to the six universities that our team has and, to put it simply, recruits. He'll talk to potential applicants and help them learn more about the opportunities that the TFA experience has to offer. I plan all of his appointments and travel, while helping drive the campaign strategy that he has laid out for the different universities. I will also maintain the data for the GPRT concerning the e-mail correspondence, university events, and the success of these things...etc...
The thing about Teach For America is that it runs with a definite corporate mind-set...however, the objective or end goal is not money, but putting exceptional leaders in the classrooms that need it the most. So while the conference felt like a corporate business conference...there was always the constant reminder that TFA is non-profit and simply wanting to provide all children that chance to have an excellent education.
I'm really excited about my job...it will be challenging, but my RD seems like a really great person...as do all the people that will be in the Chicago office with me.
Get this, TFA originally wanted my RD to have his headquarters in Lawrence, KS...since KU is one of our schools...if only... :)
I keep telling myself that this (Chicago/Evanston) is where I'm suppose to be...it is going to be hard as I continue to adjust to living alone and paying bills, but I think I can do it...I just have to stay open to whatever comes my way.
~mitzi
P.S. Yeah, I can't comment that much on le Tour because I didn't have cable/internet until the last day...I'm happy for Floyd, even though he wasn't my favorite to win...I just hope this drug thing isn't true...
Monday, July 10, 2006
packing...
I'm headed to Chicago/Evanston in two days...48 hours from now, I should be in Iowa driving along w/ my mom in a Penske truck behind me...I can't believe it.
Last Friday, my friends gave me a surprise send-off---complete w/ the traditional St. Lawrence skit. It wasn't exactly a surprise because my mom is not as sneaky...but it was pretty great and I'm so blessed to have such wonderful friends. Since then, I've been doing some examining of my past years here in Kansas...well, mainly this past year. I'm not really sleeping anymore at night because of anxiety and nervousness...so I generally just start to think about my existence.
I know I'm suppose to go to Chicago. I read through my prayer journal last night and from reading the entries that a wrote during finals week two months ago...I know that I made the right decision. I just wish I could let go and let whatever is suppose to happen to me in Chicago happen (my mom is convinced now that I'll be on the El when it catches fire again). Maybe this examination is coming from the fact that I'm going to be alone. I'm not moving there with anybody...I'll have to make new friends. And as silly as that sounds...it is so hard...especially when I have friends already...maybe that sounds bad.
I guess I'm just ready for something new, I need to be tested (as Liesel said). Chicago is my test. Hopefully, I'll survive somehow...and maybe find a couple of study-buddies along the way. All I know is that the people that I'm leaving have mean so much to me that I don't even know how to thank them. I've tried to with some, but I know it still not enough.
Back to packing...
~mitzi
P.S. in other news...what the heck is up w/ the Tour?? Would somebody please show some guts and make a move?? At least we're finally in the mountains now. But what was w/ that time trial last Saturday?...ugh.
Last Friday, my friends gave me a surprise send-off---complete w/ the traditional St. Lawrence skit. It wasn't exactly a surprise because my mom is not as sneaky...but it was pretty great and I'm so blessed to have such wonderful friends. Since then, I've been doing some examining of my past years here in Kansas...well, mainly this past year. I'm not really sleeping anymore at night because of anxiety and nervousness...so I generally just start to think about my existence.
I know I'm suppose to go to Chicago. I read through my prayer journal last night and from reading the entries that a wrote during finals week two months ago...I know that I made the right decision. I just wish I could let go and let whatever is suppose to happen to me in Chicago happen (my mom is convinced now that I'll be on the El when it catches fire again). Maybe this examination is coming from the fact that I'm going to be alone. I'm not moving there with anybody...I'll have to make new friends. And as silly as that sounds...it is so hard...especially when I have friends already...maybe that sounds bad.
I guess I'm just ready for something new, I need to be tested (as Liesel said). Chicago is my test. Hopefully, I'll survive somehow...and maybe find a couple of study-buddies along the way. All I know is that the people that I'm leaving have mean so much to me that I don't even know how to thank them. I've tried to with some, but I know it still not enough.
Back to packing...
~mitzi
P.S. in other news...what the heck is up w/ the Tour?? Would somebody please show some guts and make a move?? At least we're finally in the mountains now. But what was w/ that time trial last Saturday?...ugh.
Monday, July 03, 2006
setting in...
So it is finally coming down to the wire as far as my moving is concerned and I'm starting to realized that while I have so many things to get done...I keep thinking to myself...I'm leaving...for real. I don't know if Chicago will be my home for the next several years. The position that I have is only 12 months...but I could find a job in Chicago if I didn't want to continue for another round with Teach For America. I guess I'm just nervous and therefore not sleeping very much. It is so weird because I know that I'm suppose to be going to Chicago. I struggle with so many things about my future these past 6 months. At the beginning of the year, I seriously thought that I would be staying in Lawrence...then in March, I wanted to go to D.C....and then it was Kansas City for awhile, back to Lawrence...then maybe NYC...and now finally Chicago. For the first time, I had to do something for myself and not because I thought that what somebody wanted me to do. Ask and you shall receive. I certainly believe in this now. I know God answers prayers in three ways: Yes, Not Right Now, and I Have Something Better For You. As far as my job search is concerned...I went through all three of these answers. So to my friends looking for jobs or looking for anything...patience always wins. I just wish I could remember this all the time. :) On a friend's blog she had this activity...so since, I'm no where near sleeping time...I thought this could be a good reflection for me.
1. Choose 15 people from your friends at random.
2. Write something about/to each of them.
3. Don't tell anyone whom the statements are about. Good or bad. No matter how they beg!
- I know that the reason you annoy me so much is because I am just like you.
- You know "me" the best of anyone I've known
- Whenever I see your smiling face, I have to smile myself...
- You have a gentle soul.
- For some reason you are always on my side...I don't know why...but you are...
- You give the best advice
- I really miss you
- You are the most considerate and courageous person I know
- You were the first person to tell me I could make things happen
- I will never be able to thank you enough for what you have done for me
- I love how you worry about me
- See you on Oprah!
- How I miss our high-fives and morning gossip...I hope you are well!
- I miss our friendship
- You are the reason I am where I am...thank you.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
some general thoughts for the day...
1. Hincapie is in yellow for the first time ever. Pretty sweet. Although, the winner from yesterday got cut up pretty badly during the final sprint by a specator waving a cardboard hand. Yeah, just try riding 45 mph and then getting sliced by a piece of promotional cardboard...at least it hit his arm and not his neck. Ouch. And the blood loss? Just think about it...you've been riding for a long time, you're in the middle of a full-out sprint, adrenaline is going to win the race, etc...pretty scary. And what the heck was w/ Floyd Landis yesterday showing up 8 seconds late for his start time...whoa...Lance would never have done that.
2. Today at Mass, my priest talked about the fear of death and he totally used Jerry Seinfeld's routine from "I'm Telling You for the Last Time." You know the part where he says that death is the second greatest fear and public speaking is the first...so you would rather be in the casket than speaking in front of the casket. I don't know if Seinfeld was the first to say this...but my priest would totally be plagarizing if this were true...oh well.
3. The past couple of times I've been at the restaurant, First Watch, it has been hit or miss...but this morning I had their fresh fruit crepes and they were the best I had since sometime ago.
4. Yesterday, my roommate brought me Dunkin' Donuts and a coffee coolatta to watch the Tour...However, I had gone earlier to get my tradition Dunkin' Donuts before settling in for the 3 hour prologue. No problem. Why? Tour + 2(coolatta) = fan-flippin-tastic.
5. Google now has a thingy for your computer so that you can get World Cup updates automatically...now if they had this for the Tour...my life just may be [ ] much better :)
6. Go George.
7. Go Germany.
~mitzi
2. Today at Mass, my priest talked about the fear of death and he totally used Jerry Seinfeld's routine from "I'm Telling You for the Last Time." You know the part where he says that death is the second greatest fear and public speaking is the first...so you would rather be in the casket than speaking in front of the casket. I don't know if Seinfeld was the first to say this...but my priest would totally be plagarizing if this were true...oh well.
3. The past couple of times I've been at the restaurant, First Watch, it has been hit or miss...but this morning I had their fresh fruit crepes and they were the best I had since sometime ago.
4. Yesterday, my roommate brought me Dunkin' Donuts and a coffee coolatta to watch the Tour...However, I had gone earlier to get my tradition Dunkin' Donuts before settling in for the 3 hour prologue. No problem. Why? Tour + 2(coolatta) = fan-flippin-tastic.
5. Google now has a thingy for your computer so that you can get World Cup updates automatically...now if they had this for the Tour...my life just may be [ ] much better :)
6. Go George.
7. Go Germany.
~mitzi
Saturday, July 01, 2006
13 days...
Well, 13 days until I move...but in other news: Le Tour!
Whoa, scandal...scandal...scandal. And I have know idea what is going on. Apparently there was this doping investigation in Spain and the reports were just released yesterday including the names of 2006 Tour front-runners, Basso and Ullrich. All the team managers at the Tour came together and decided not to let anyone race who was associated w/ the reports. So there ya go.
Innocent/Guilty? Well, I've never been a fan of Ullrich because he was Lance's nemesis...but I still know that he was/is quite a rider. He won the Tour back in 1997 when he was just 23...whoa. That's saying a lot since the Tour that takes so much maturity in riding/emotions/mental focus. But I just don't know. I want to believe that they are all innocent, but I'm surprise that the teams didn't back these guys up who are saying that they are innocent. It seems fishy. But there is a lesson: you gotta be smart who you associate with especially when the stakes are as high as they are for the Tour in the world of cycling.
I think if one of the riders on Team Discovery had been on the list, the team would have backed him up...they always did for Lance (the most tested athlete...ever).
Oh well. This just what happens with the Tour...the unexpected, the tragedy, the lost dreams...
and the dreams----MADE!!!
Who would have expected the "1st lieutenant" of Lance for the past 7 years to place 2nd in today's prologue. Nice. And how cool was it that he rode last...to replace Lance's spot from the past 6 years. Very fitting.
Well, it is on to the somewhat boring flat stages...but just wait for that TTT (team time trial) and the 1st day in the mountains.
~mitzi
Whoa, scandal...scandal...scandal. And I have know idea what is going on. Apparently there was this doping investigation in Spain and the reports were just released yesterday including the names of 2006 Tour front-runners, Basso and Ullrich. All the team managers at the Tour came together and decided not to let anyone race who was associated w/ the reports. So there ya go.
Innocent/Guilty? Well, I've never been a fan of Ullrich because he was Lance's nemesis...but I still know that he was/is quite a rider. He won the Tour back in 1997 when he was just 23...whoa. That's saying a lot since the Tour that takes so much maturity in riding/emotions/mental focus. But I just don't know. I want to believe that they are all innocent, but I'm surprise that the teams didn't back these guys up who are saying that they are innocent. It seems fishy. But there is a lesson: you gotta be smart who you associate with especially when the stakes are as high as they are for the Tour in the world of cycling.
I think if one of the riders on Team Discovery had been on the list, the team would have backed him up...they always did for Lance (the most tested athlete...ever).
Oh well. This just what happens with the Tour...the unexpected, the tragedy, the lost dreams...
and the dreams----MADE!!!
Who would have expected the "1st lieutenant" of Lance for the past 7 years to place 2nd in today's prologue. Nice. And how cool was it that he rode last...to replace Lance's spot from the past 6 years. Very fitting.
Well, it is on to the somewhat boring flat stages...but just wait for that TTT (team time trial) and the 1st day in the mountains.
~mitzi
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
2006 tour de france preview...
With the last "news" of Lance being revolving around his break-up from rockstar singer, Sheryl Crow...there is no chance that 7-time champion will return for another trip around France. :(
And now for the preview:
'Course, I'll most likely be rooting for Team Discovery due to my allegiance from previous years...but as for a podium finish...it could be tricky.
The team is definitely in top shape with several returners from last year including stage winners, George Hincapie and Yaroslav "Popo" Popovych. "Popo" was also last year's white jersey winner for the best young rider. There is also Jose "Ace" Azevedo who was seen drafting Lance up the mountains the past two years. Paolo Salvodelli looks to also contribute, but he had a hard effort in the Giro d'Italia...so probably won't look for a podium spot this year. A couple of newcomers are on board, but I have not seen that much from them. The old stand-bys, Benjamin Noval and "Eki" will be back for another Tour.
In my opinion after reading the team report from the director, Johan Bruyneel, it seems that this year's team is much like the USPS team of '99 (Lance's first win)...so it is just a matter of who shows up to ride on July 1st.
Including...
Jan Ullrich, the German who since 1998 has yet to claim a second title at the Tour...although some of those finishes have been close! Who could forget the 61 second time difference between Ullrich and Armstrong at entry into Paris? He'll be ready, don't worry.
Ivan Basso...one of my favorites. He's the Italian that ended up in third last year...he's quite a time-trialer...but suffers in the mountains. Remember Lance passing him along L'alp d'Huez? Anyhow, last year he did have a great run and I fully expected him to come to this year's Tour rested and ready...but his win at the Giro d'Italia...could have cost him the top spot.
and then some Others:
Floyd Landis, Levi Leipheimer, and Alexandre Vinokourov
Basically...
Here's the deal. As we learned the past 7 years of watching one man win the Tour over and over...it comes down to the team. Who's team will fight for the title? Who's team is loyal enough to draft their leader up a mountain allowing themselves to spend all their energy and ultimately fall in the general classification? Who's team has a leader that can do their job in the time-trials so that the efforts of his teammates isn't lost? Team USPS and Discovery have crafted the perfect model...can they do it again or is time for a new team to emerge as the Tour de France champion? As the poster shows...the Malliot Jaune is up for grabs...
Details:
Watch on OLN beginning live on Saturday, July 1st at 7:30am CST.
~mitzi
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
fiddle dee-dee...
I believe since the beginning of electronic e-mail there has been the "chain e-mail" to compensate for the breakdown of "chain-mail". For whatever reason, we fill out these questionnaires and then forward them onto all of the addresses in our Contacts and then sit and wait for one of our friends to be just as bored as we are to fill it out and send it back. So instead of clogging your inbox...here it is in my blog with some nice sacarastic rhetoric to go along.
1. FIRST NAME? Mitzi (legally, Christa)
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yes...Christ and Mary...beat that ;)
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST LAUGH? in church this morning when my friend surprised me and I figure out the whole surprise plan that she and my roommate put together to guilt me into going to church...
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Ham, hands down.
6. KIDS? Is this question suppose to ask if I like kids? then yes. Do have kids? no. Do I want kids? in the future.
7. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? What kind of question is this? I'm not going to answer it.
8. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? I guess you could consider this blog my journal...but I also have a spiritual journal that took the place of my "secular" journal.
9. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? No, of course not...who uses sarcasm anymore...seriously, that was so last season.
10. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes.
11. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Only if it were into a very deep body of water...oh wait, I've already gone face first into a body of water...that hurt. Nevermind, not bungee for me.
12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Golden Grahams or Frosted Flakes
13. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Not usually
14. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? I think that I think I'm strong and usually give off that sort of characteristic...but I have a lot of weak parts as well.
15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Brand? Murray's in Westport. Flavor? Chocolate chip
16. WHAT IS YOR SHOE SIZE? 7.5-8
17. RED OR PINK? Red
18. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I'm constently looking for approval.
19. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? my family and friends who have moved away...
20. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? No, I just thought I would waste their time in reading this...no need to waste more time. Are you kidding me?
21. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES Are YOU WEARING? Jeans ...no shoes.
22. LAST THING YOU ATE? A maraschino cherry in a homemade Sherry Temple...so refreshing!!
23. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? A window fan and in the background the news.
24. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? I always like red-violet
25. FAVORITE SMELL? Baby lotion and lilacs...but not together.
26.WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Amy
27. DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? a dog.
28. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Do they need this question?
29. FAVORITE DRINK? right now? SunTea
30. FAVORITE SPORT? Cycling
31. HAIR COLOR? dark brown
32. EYE COLOR? see #31
33. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? unfortunately, yes
34. FAVORITE FOOD? spaghetti w/ my mom's homemade sauce
35. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDING? sad...oh wait, I mean happy endings? Again, who picks scary over happy?
36. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? A Mighty Wind
37. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Gray
38 . HUGS OR KISSES? Never been kissed...so hugs, I guess.
39. FAVORITE DESSERT? During the summer: Mississippi Mud
40. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Robert...you'll leave a comment. I know...
41. WHO IS LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Liesel because she always checks my blog...but has yet to leave a comment.
42. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING? One Day All Children... by Wendy Kopp
43. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Army ROTCH logo
44. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? My Life on the D-List
45. FAVORITE SOUNDS? singing...
46. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles
47. THE FURTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Der Vaterland
48. DO YOU HAVE ANY TALENT? singing...and I lead people. :)
49. WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? January 30, 1984 in Lawrence, KS
~mitzi
P.S. next blog: Tour de France preview!!! Get ready only 11 days until it begins!!!!
1. FIRST NAME? Mitzi (legally, Christa)
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yes...Christ and Mary...beat that ;)
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST LAUGH? in church this morning when my friend surprised me and I figure out the whole surprise plan that she and my roommate put together to guilt me into going to church...
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Ham, hands down.
6. KIDS? Is this question suppose to ask if I like kids? then yes. Do have kids? no. Do I want kids? in the future.
7. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? What kind of question is this? I'm not going to answer it.
8. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? I guess you could consider this blog my journal...but I also have a spiritual journal that took the place of my "secular" journal.
9. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? No, of course not...who uses sarcasm anymore...seriously, that was so last season.
10. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes.
11. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Only if it were into a very deep body of water...oh wait, I've already gone face first into a body of water...that hurt. Nevermind, not bungee for me.
12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Golden Grahams or Frosted Flakes
13. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Not usually
14. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? I think that I think I'm strong and usually give off that sort of characteristic...but I have a lot of weak parts as well.
15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Brand? Murray's in Westport. Flavor? Chocolate chip
16. WHAT IS YOR SHOE SIZE? 7.5-8
17. RED OR PINK? Red
18. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I'm constently looking for approval.
19. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? my family and friends who have moved away...
20. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? No, I just thought I would waste their time in reading this...no need to waste more time. Are you kidding me?
21. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES Are YOU WEARING? Jeans ...no shoes.
22. LAST THING YOU ATE? A maraschino cherry in a homemade Sherry Temple...so refreshing!!
23. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? A window fan and in the background the news.
24. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? I always like red-violet
25. FAVORITE SMELL? Baby lotion and lilacs...but not together.
26.WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Amy
27. DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? a dog.
28. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Do they need this question?
29. FAVORITE DRINK? right now? SunTea
30. FAVORITE SPORT? Cycling
31. HAIR COLOR? dark brown
32. EYE COLOR? see #31
33. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? unfortunately, yes
34. FAVORITE FOOD? spaghetti w/ my mom's homemade sauce
35. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDING? sad...oh wait, I mean happy endings? Again, who picks scary over happy?
36. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? A Mighty Wind
37. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Gray
38 . HUGS OR KISSES? Never been kissed...so hugs, I guess.
39. FAVORITE DESSERT? During the summer: Mississippi Mud
40. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Robert...you'll leave a comment. I know...
41. WHO IS LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Liesel because she always checks my blog...but has yet to leave a comment.
42. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING? One Day All Children... by Wendy Kopp
43. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Army ROTCH logo
44. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? My Life on the D-List
45. FAVORITE SOUNDS? singing...
46. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles
47. THE FURTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Der Vaterland
48. DO YOU HAVE ANY TALENT? singing...and I lead people. :)
49. WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? January 30, 1984 in Lawrence, KS
~mitzi
P.S. next blog: Tour de France preview!!! Get ready only 11 days until it begins!!!!
Monday, June 19, 2006
back "home"...
I'm back "home" for a little while. I'll move July 14th...which is pretty soon. There are so many things to think about and change...I just hope that everything goes somewhat smoothly. This past weekend, I drove up to Chicago to find an apartment. The 10 hour drive turned into 12.5 hours because of road constrution and an accident ... and then the destination hotel ended up being just a little more than a shack w/ a bed and toilet---but I really shouldn't complain. I did find an apartment that will hopefully work in my budget once the paychecks start coming on a regular basis.
The apartment is the upstairs of a house in Evanston (a northern suburb of Chicago) and it has a small screen-in porch along the back w/ a back yard. It's pretty cute and I'm excited to have my own space after being in a hall w/ 48 other women the past 4 years.
Anyhow, after finding the apartment, I head downtown to find my new office. It was pretty cool because they are moving offices so everything will be brand new. I'll even get my own desk by the window!! NO CUBICLES!!! It looks really nice too...and so close to my El stop!!
After that, I headed up to Madison for trip #3 in the past month so that my mom could see the Reddigs' new house. It's looking good and the air mattress was certainly a friend of mine compared to my nemesis at the Travelodge. Also, the Dr. and the Mrs. provided me w/ the long-awaited croissant that I had requested during a breakfast run by the Buschelmans back during trip #2 to Madison...oh well. I guess the Reddigs won that small "favorite sibling" contest :)!
Other than that...I'm just going through everything I need to get done. I reserved a moving truck today which was pretty exciting because I saved about $100 by wanting to drop off my truck in Illinois. So if you are ever moving, ask the company if they have deals depending on where you are dropping off your truck...it just might save you a bit of cash!
Also, I wanted to clear up that I do not hate my sisters because of their "movie" from the last post. It is not their fault that I wanted to be just like them...that's my own fault. I'm just glad that I've figured out that I have to be me...because that's all I can be. I just wish my mom would figure this out.
~mitzi
p.s. shout out to Robert finding me a bank!!!
The apartment is the upstairs of a house in Evanston (a northern suburb of Chicago) and it has a small screen-in porch along the back w/ a back yard. It's pretty cute and I'm excited to have my own space after being in a hall w/ 48 other women the past 4 years.
Anyhow, after finding the apartment, I head downtown to find my new office. It was pretty cool because they are moving offices so everything will be brand new. I'll even get my own desk by the window!! NO CUBICLES!!! It looks really nice too...and so close to my El stop!!
After that, I headed up to Madison for trip #3 in the past month so that my mom could see the Reddigs' new house. It's looking good and the air mattress was certainly a friend of mine compared to my nemesis at the Travelodge. Also, the Dr. and the Mrs. provided me w/ the long-awaited croissant that I had requested during a breakfast run by the Buschelmans back during trip #2 to Madison...oh well. I guess the Reddigs won that small "favorite sibling" contest :)!
Other than that...I'm just going through everything I need to get done. I reserved a moving truck today which was pretty exciting because I saved about $100 by wanting to drop off my truck in Illinois. So if you are ever moving, ask the company if they have deals depending on where you are dropping off your truck...it just might save you a bit of cash!
Also, I wanted to clear up that I do not hate my sisters because of their "movie" from the last post. It is not their fault that I wanted to be just like them...that's my own fault. I'm just glad that I've figured out that I have to be me...because that's all I can be. I just wish my mom would figure this out.
~mitzi
p.s. shout out to Robert finding me a bank!!!
Saturday, June 10, 2006
new song...
There are a bunch of things going on right now in my life as I try to figure how exactly I'm going to survive in Chi-town...I have a new car now...pretty nice and next week I'm going to go look for an apartment...I still can't believe this is all happening to me. For those of you who know me pretty well, I have always compared myself with my sisters so much so that I tried to do everything they do. Somethings have turned out really well and some were just not me. Anyhow, when doing things that they had done previously...for me to do them was like being in a movie that had already been made. Weird.
Anyhow, this whole moving to Chicago is completely my own "movie" so to speak. I have no idea how it ends and that is pretty scary and exciting.
On another note, I have a new favorite song. "Always on Your Side" by Sheryl Crow...the version w/ Sting is also good...here are the lyrics, enjoy!
My yesterdays are all boxed up and neatly put away
But every now and then you come to mind
Cause you were always waiting to be picked to play the game
But when your name was called, you found a place to hide
When you knew that I was always on your side
Well everything was easy then, so sweet and innocent
But your demons and your angels reappeared
Leavin' all the traces of the man you thought you'd be
Leavin' me with no place left to go from here
Leavin' me so many questions all these years
But is there someplace far away, someplace where all is clear
Easy to start over with the ones you hold so dear
Or are you left to wonder, all alone, eternally
This isn't how it's really meant to be
No it isn't how it's really meant to be
Well they say that love is in the air, but never is it clear,
How to pull it close and make it stay
Butterflies are free to fly, and so they fly away
And I'm left to carry on and wonder why
Even through it all, I'm always on your side
But is there someplace far away, someplace where all is clear
Easy to start over with the ones you hold so dear
Or are we left to wonder, all alone, eternally
But is this how it's really meant to be
No is it how it's really meant to be
Well if they say that love is in the air, never is it clear
How to pull it close and make it stay
If butterflies are free to fly, why do they fly away
Leavin' me to carry on and wonder why
Was it you that kept me wondering through this life
When you know that I was always on your side
Anyhow, this whole moving to Chicago is completely my own "movie" so to speak. I have no idea how it ends and that is pretty scary and exciting.
On another note, I have a new favorite song. "Always on Your Side" by Sheryl Crow...the version w/ Sting is also good...here are the lyrics, enjoy!
My yesterdays are all boxed up and neatly put away
But every now and then you come to mind
Cause you were always waiting to be picked to play the game
But when your name was called, you found a place to hide
When you knew that I was always on your side
Well everything was easy then, so sweet and innocent
But your demons and your angels reappeared
Leavin' all the traces of the man you thought you'd be
Leavin' me with no place left to go from here
Leavin' me so many questions all these years
But is there someplace far away, someplace where all is clear
Easy to start over with the ones you hold so dear
Or are you left to wonder, all alone, eternally
This isn't how it's really meant to be
No it isn't how it's really meant to be
Well they say that love is in the air, but never is it clear,
How to pull it close and make it stay
Butterflies are free to fly, and so they fly away
And I'm left to carry on and wonder why
Even through it all, I'm always on your side
But is there someplace far away, someplace where all is clear
Easy to start over with the ones you hold so dear
Or are we left to wonder, all alone, eternally
But is this how it's really meant to be
No is it how it's really meant to be
Well if they say that love is in the air, never is it clear
How to pull it close and make it stay
If butterflies are free to fly, why do they fly away
Leavin' me to carry on and wonder why
Was it you that kept me wondering through this life
When you know that I was always on your side
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