Subscribe already!

OMG - why the F#@% are you still coming here?

Okay, so I do suck - I didn't put up an RSS doohickey. So here you go. 

Subscribe in a reader

There's one on my new blog too. SEE HERE to visit and get me back into your readers. I'll love you forever!

Cheers!

-A

Still?

Why are you still coming here?!?!

I live HERE now, remember.

Http://www.ravesandreviews.com. Add it to your Google Reader NOW. You'll be happy you did.

Cheers!

-A

New Post @ New Blog

Remember - I moved. http://www.ravesandreviews.com

Haven't updated your Reader yet? Shame on you!

Head on over to read my latest post on the best Chinese food in town! Click here now.

Cheers!

-A

Don't forget!

I'm over here now.

http://www.ravesandreviews.com.

If you haven't changed it up in your reader yet, please do so soon! Reminders will stop soon.

I posted a little ditty today that includes a bar review and a run in with one of our favorite Cleveland bloggers. Check it out to see who and where.

Cheers!

-A

Switching it up

Well my little blogger friends, as you know I'm constantly dying for change, so I've decided to put my money where my mouth is - or rather, my blog.

That's right, kiddos, there's about be a change up in hizzle. 

You may have noticed that my bio at the right has changed recently. 

No? Okay, well now you know.

Starting next week, Encounters of the Human Kind will no longer exist as we know it. But don't get too upset yet, I'm not gone for good.

What's actually happening is that the name will be changing, and we'll all be heading over to a new domain name. One I actually own.

See, I am putting my money where my mouth is!

So, here it is - my new blog name: Raves and Reviews

http://www.ravesandreviews.com

This move is highly appropriate as I've already been providing rants, raves, and reviews on a regular basis (yes, of course rants are included. check the tagline). So the switch is less about changing focus and more about building a site around what I've already been doing.

Because really, when was the last time I actually posted about someone that I met - especially someone that doesn't skydive. Besides, that's what Skydive Chick is for (my uuber cool blog about skydiving).

In essence, this doesn't affect y'all as much as you might think. Blogger will continue to be my platform. It'll still be me and my smart mouth, everyday, providing the same opinionated crap as always. But hopefully now, you'll be able to take away some good, bad and ugly of everything I consume and encounter on a daily basis.

See, I'm doing this for you. My dearest readers!

And of course, if there's something you're curious about but don't have the guts to try or buy, let me know. Odds are, I'll do it and give you the rundown.

Now, in theory, given that I'll be exporting the contents of EHK to the new site, Blogger is supposed to continue directing y'all who visit recentencounters.blogspot.com to that domain, but I'm not all that trusting of how the interwebs might actually function with this change. So...if you have me bookmarked, or I'm in your Google Reader, now is the time to add the new domain.

Please and thank you!

Of course, until that time comes I'll be banging this into your head, a la LiLu and her recent move.

Hope y'all are as excited for this change as I am. It's bound to be an enlightening experience for us all.

So keep coming back for my raves and reviews, and of course, some rants in my typical cynical fashion, as a 20-something consumer.

Cheers!

-A

You don't want my shoes

Late last night the SO and I were talking about our day. Thankfully, mine was rather uneventful, as his was fairly high-stress.

In the recap he was discussing a conversation with a man on his team that was so intense it got me worked up just listening to it.

Here's a little background for you: apparently in his prime this man used to be an executive of sorts, making "six figs" as he puts it, but given the economic decline and the near disappearance of his line of work, he's stuck working with the 20-somethings, doing work that he believes to be beneath him.

Editor's note: I don't understand half of what the SO does for a living, it's so complex. But of course, this is coming from a communications professional, what do I know?

So while arguing with the SO about leaving early, regardless if his work is done, Mr. Executive says, "try walking a day in my shoes."

Now, this brings me to my point.

No one, no matter what they've been through in their life, has the right to say that to someone else. Ever.

You just don't know what the person you're saying that to has gone through. You have no idea.

Giving this guy the benefit of the doubt, I'm sure he looks at the SO and thinks to himself that a 20-something kid has no idea what it's like to work his way to the top only to be smacked back down by elements that are out of your control, all the while trying to support a family - and so on and so forth.

But the fact of the matter is, he really doesn't know. Just because someone looks like they've lived a charmed life, it doesn't mean they have - nor does it mean they don't understand stress.

Oh, did I mention that he said "you don't know what stress is." Yeah, right. That too.

And truthfully, what this guy was complaining about is nothing in the grand scheme of the kinds of stress life can bring. Really, anyone who's ever endured true stress and life hardships, only to be left standing tall on the other side, doesn't go around rubbing it in others faces. They just don't.

So take a lesson from this douche - don't be one - and never assume you know how someone else leads their life. They could be two, or twenty, or ninety, you just don't know what kind of life experiences they've live through. No one has the right to assume their life is more difficult than others around them.

Seriously, you just don't know.

Cheers!

-A

4th recap

Okay, so as y'all are probably aware, I'm not a huge fan of weekend recaps. However, this weekend was especially eventful, and honestly I don't have much else to talk about. So here goes.

Like most people in the corporate world, I had Friday off. Even better, our office closed at 3 p.m. on Thursday. So I had a couple more hours of weekend to enjoy.

Of course, I spent it cleaning and working out*, but that's just what a girl's gotta do. 

Then I had a 9 p.m. appointment for an airbrush tan with Lisa from Optima Sun Labs. Which by the way, I have to say was fantastic. She was quick and super personable. And I even recruited her for skydiving! It was a little pricey, but definitely worth it for the occasional tan.

On Friday the SO and I headed to Cedar Point for our first trip of the year. It was rather nostalgic for us as this is where he first kissed me - in line for Top Thrill Dragster actually (awww).

We hit up all the big rides - Raptor, Millennium Force, Maverick, and of course Dragster. By that time we'd had it. Our feet were tired, our heads hurt, and we were sunburned. Being stuck in an office day in and day out has really made us soft, yeesh!

So we headed home for a nap, woke up absolutely ravenous, and headed to the Winking Lizard in Lakewood to feed my craving for nachos. Mmmm...

We followed this up with a trip to visit some friends who recently got a puppy - a 3 month old coonhound-ridgeback mix. Other than the constant digging and attempts to dominate the SO, he was adorable. Corona's and cornhole ensued.

The night closed with an at-home viewing of Gran Torino. If you haven't seen this movie, it's a MUST. Clint Eastwood is beyond phenomenal in this role.

Saturday was a sleep in day. And boy did that feel great. The day actually started out pretty slow - leisurely breakfast, got in another workout and then I had to bite the bullet and get some groceries (given that breakfast included my scraping the sides of the peanut butter jar with a butter knife in hopes of getting a little more sustenance). 

So off I headed to the cluster-f**k that was Giant Eagle. A minor panic attack rose to the surface as I tried to figure out the logistics of how to maneuver the last-minute picnic shoppers and their carts full of hot dogs, but then I realized I had no choice. I literally ran around the store to get the basics, found the shortest checkout line and peaced out as quickly as possible.

With fridge fully stocked, it was off to the East side with the SO for a cookout and cornhole - again. Now I have to stop and say this was a big step for the SO as he's one of those West-siders that doesn't cross the Cuyahoga. EVER. In fact, this may have been the first time we'd been to the East side together.

Anywhosits, it was a great time. I tend to get a little squirmy when I'm around a group of 10+ people I've never met before, but everyone was so nice and so laid back, it was easy to relax. I felt like I fit right in.

The food was great and the SO and I even beat the old guys in cornhole. The night was capped off with a walk down to Lakewood park for fireworks and then back home where we both passed out on the couch.

Grandma and Grandpa were tired!

Sunday was another early start to head to the drop zone for a couple jumps. It'd been two weeks so I was definitely nervous, but of course I fell right back in (no pun intended) like I'd never missed a day.

(All smiles in my new gear!)

I got to fly my new jumpsuit and altimeter and even got Lonnie to come up with me for jump #13 and get some new solo pics. You can find some here. Or on my Facebook or Flickr pages.

So tell me dear readers, how was your 4th of July weekend?

Cheers!

-A

*I'm keeping up with my EA Sports Active challenge. Entering a successful 3rd week on the program. What's up!?

Morning person

I've always prided myself on being a morning person. My brain seems to work so much better in the early mornings. And the fact that the office is dead until 8:30 really helps my concentration too.

But what I'm not that best at in the mornings is talking to people. At least not until I have my coffee.

I've found that on the days where I decided to get a little extra shut eye and get into the office after my cube neighbors that, until I've had time to caffeinate and settle in, I'm rather annoyed by the pure existence of others.

In fact, I find anyone who has already consumed caffeine to be highly irritating first thing in the morning.

I need a sign that says: BEWARE! Use caution when speaking to the Bitch before 9 a.m.

Even on those days when the SO sleeps over it's not usually a problem because he's just as mute as I in the mornings.

That is, until today. Given that we both have so much work to do before the holiday weekend, we decided to set the alarm earlier and get into the office for a productive morning.

Groggy, I pull myself from the warmth of my bed and stumble toward the bathroom, only to be met by the SOs foot swinging through the air - you know, as if he were attempting to kick me in the face.

He was chipper and had energy like I'd never seen before 10 a.m. What gives, SO?

Thing was, with only 6 hours of sleep under my belt I didn't have the energy to do more than grumble a "you're hyper this morning" in his general direction.

Hindsight, if he would have kicked me in the face maybe I could have called off today. Only kidding...unless he broke my nose.

Ha. J/K again! He couldn't get his foot up that high anyhow.

Just kidding, Just kidding. SO, you're the best.

Really, his chipperness was a refreshing change from our typical silent mornings. But when it comes to anyone else, if I have to see you before my coffee, I prefer a silent interaction.

Though I'd love to not see you at all!

So tell me dear readers, what does your routine look like prior to coffee consumption?

On another note, it's a long weekend! YAY!!  I'm excited to report that I'll be spending tomorrow at Cedar Point riding roller coasters and Sunday falling through the air at 120 mph (skydiving, naturally). I'll get to put my new jumpsuit and altimeter to good use. And I'm hoping to have some solo skydiver pics to share with y'all next week!

Any big plans for the 4th?

Cheers!

-A

Moe Knows

Coming hot off a post about Fatty McFatterson Jr. I found it appropriate to talk about my most recent encounter - with food!

Last night after accompanying the SO to pick up his new car, he took me to Moe's Southwest Grill as a "reward."

And let me just tell you, it blew my mind!

For those who are not familiar, Moe's is a quick casual restaurant similar to Chipotle and Qdoba, a make your own burrito type of joint. Of course, they have tacos and quesadillas and nachos too. But let's talk about my burrito experience, shall we?

The SO'd been talking about this place for a while now, saying how much better it is than Chipotle, that there's a lot more variety, but I didn't believe it till I saw it.

Not only can you choose toppings like black olives and jalepenos, but they even have free chips and a salsa bar. YEAH!

So when your burrito isn't spicy enough or you want to try a different salsa with your FREE CHIPS, it's all there for you.

On top of that, their sour cream is a lot thicker and their queso is delish! It's made with one of those white cheeses, tasted like Chihuahua. 

Here in NE Ohio they have one in Avon and in North Olmsted, but I highly recommend you look them up in your area. I promise you won't be disappointed!

Cheers!

-A

p.s., I don't feel bad about chowing down last night after completing my third EA Sports Active workout. I'm gonna kick this 30-day challenge in the ass!

I wish you'd just transform already

So this weekend I got to see the new Transformers movie - Revenge of the Fallen. It was over two hours and I have virtually no complaints about the movie - great special effects, a few good chuckles, and who can moan about about watching men like Tyrese Gibson and Josh Duhamel on the big screen?

At least, not in a bad way. Ha!

But there was one little annoyance during this flick - or shall I say on very large annoyance.

Just before the movie started a man and two boys plopped down next to us. One boy looked like a normal 8-year-old, chatting with his friend, excited about seeing a late-night Transformers movie. The other, was, well, how do I say this....fat.

Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not against fat people in the slightest. However, when a parent has a kid who's clearly going to have (or who probably already has) health problems because they've let them have too many brownies in their life, it kinda pisses me off.

At the parent - not the child.

It also pisses me off when they allow them to act in the way this kid did throughout the entire movie.

As I mentioned, they started out rather chatty but shut right up when the movie started. This was a good sign. Or so I thought.

But as soon as he ate his way to the bottom of his jumbo popcorn - yes, he had his own - he went to town on slurping down the remainder of his large soda. 

Lord only knows how, over the course of 2 and 1/2 hours how this kid didn't have to get up to pee at least once, but he kept his ass glued in that chair somehow.

Once the soda was gone he proceeded to poke on the plastic top and break it until it had completely collapsed into the cup.

After that noise subsided he apparently got bored and slid to the front of his seat so his feet could touch the floor. 

Why?

So he could loudly crunch every single kernel of popcorn that had missed his mouth earlier in the movie.

About this time, the other kid and the man, who we decided was probably the father of the smaller child as he seemed like a reasonable man who would have told his own kid to shut the hell up about an hour earlier, got up to go to the bathroom. 

When they came back, the chubster proceeded to use his outdoor voice to tell his friend what he'd missed.

At the end of the movie, we all got up to leave, following this group out the door. Just before he got to the isle way, the fat one bent over and stuck his hand into what was left of the dad's popcorn for one last snack.

Mmmm....floor popcorn.

Okay, so not exactly, but once the bucket is on the floor and the movie is over it might as well be straight from the floor.

Regardless of the distraction, it was a great movie. Highly recommended!

What good movies have you seen lately?

Cheers!

-A

A post not about MJ

Not that I don't feel bad about Michael Jackson's death, but it hasn't even been 24 hours and I'm already sick of hearing about it.

Yes he had a rough childhood, sure he may have molested a few boys, and of course he was talented, but c'mon. I mean, Farrah Fawcett passed away yesterday from a battle with cancer and how come she's just a minor sub-heading on CNN?

CREAPSTER MICHAEL JACKSON DIES AT AGE 50 -- MACAULAY CULKIN WEEPS AT HIS BEDSIDE

Oh right, and Farrah Fawcett died too.

Anywhosits, enough about all that.

So remember how a couple weeks ago I mentioned starting the 30 day EA Sports Active challenge....uh yeah, that hasn't happened.

You were supposed to push me, remember? "Man up!"

Yeah, I blame you.

Okay, so not really. It's actually been a series of unfortunate health incidents that has set me back - starting with a massive head cold last week followed by a minor elbow injury on Sunday that's still in the mending stages.

But I will start this weekend. You better believe that.

Mostly because I want to get this conquered before my trip to L.A. in early August - I'm definitely not in shape for the beach right now.

But of course, that's not going to stop me from going out to dinner with the SO and his family tonight, followed by a trip to one of my favorite places tomorrow morning - the West Side Market of course.

And of course, if the elbow permits, I'll be headed to the drop zone this weekend for some more fun jumping out of perfectly good airplanes.

What are you weekend plans?

Cheers!

-A

Blog Carnival: A blast from the past

So I wasn't going to post today, but then, as I was going through my Google Reader I came across this post, again from my friend Susan over at Transient Travels. Thanks for the reminder, Susan.

The post below is from way back, last year, when I first started my blog. And, this post is part of 20SB's Looking Back Blog Carnival, and Ben & Jerry's is awarding free ice cream to lucky bloggers and readers. 

Who doesn't like free ice cream.

When I got this challenge I knew EXACTLY which story I would use. And though it's technically not from the first 2 months of the blog, it happened within that time frame, so I still think it counts.

So, enjoy this little blast from the past!

___________________________

Should Have Escaped While I Could

Though I am typically opposed to documenting personal information or dating experiences in the public blogosphere, I decided that the following story is just too good not to share. It came up during a game of Wii bowling late last night with my roommate and a couple of our friends and it was the entertining topic of the night. In fact, when I first told my roommate about this first-date experience, she chuckled lightly and responded with, "you just made me feel better about every bad date I've had the past six months, thanks." You're welcome.

A while back I met a boy while I was out with my friends. He was mid-20s, attractive, had a job to support himself, and could hold a conversation so when he suggested we hang out again I considered it. After discussing with my friends (as all girls do) they agreed that he seemed like a decent person. So when it came time to decide if I was going to attend a sporting event with him one evening after work, my mind went back to our first encounter and it seemed like a good idea. And in fact, it was. He managed to get my roommate and I two great seats to the game and we all had a good time. At the end of the night we concluded that he was really cool and I should definitely hang out with him again. But boy did he fool us.

He had asked me out for the following Saturday, mentioning dinner and a movie as a good possibility given that it was supposed to rain. During the day before the rain set in I managed to enjoy some sun and accomplish all of my weekend chores. Come 8 p.m. he had still not called, though by this time my stomach overruled my brain and I made myself dinner. A text message asking if he still wanted to hang out revealed that he did, but not until 10 p.m. This is where, if I would have been smart, I would have backed away. Maybe subconsciously I knew what was coming, and at least I'd have a good story to tell later, right?

...10:00, 10:30, 10:45 - incoming text: "left later than I wanted, be there by 11." ...11:00, 11:15, 11:25 - incoming call: "i'm waiting downstairs."

In the car I give him the benefit of the doubt and pretend that I forgot he said we'd be going to dinner. "So, how was your day? Did you get to enjoy the weather before this rain started?" To which he replied that in fact he got caught up in building his Web site and lost track of time. *Strike one* - since when is any Web site better than going on a date with a cute girl?

He suggests we go to a local bar because there's a good band playing. Given my experiences with local bands, I was skeptical, but for some reason believed the words that were coming out of his mouth (though if I'd listened to the music coming out of his stereo I would have known the band was going to suck). Regardless, we go, there's a $3 cover charge. He hands the guy a $5, gets his change and walks in. That's right. Not only does he not pay for my $3 cover, but he doesn't wait for me to pay my own way! *Stike two* - hello, moron. You asked me out on this "date." Man up!

Oh, but it gets better...

So after one drink (for which he surprisingly paid), I can't take thesuckiness of the band anymore and suggest we leave. Head to another local bar with a better band and no cover for one more drink. The conversation was dull, and the moment he asked me if I had beaten my score on Wii bowling yet (huh?) it was time to leave. As we are walking out he says, "I'm hungry." Well,I'm not, and I'm ready to go home, and at this point I only give a damn about myself. I should have asked for him to take me home first (in hindsight, I should have done a lot of things differently, but you know what they say about highdsight). Regardless, I shut my trap and pointed him in the direction of the nearest fast-food restaurant still open. He gets in line, orders the biggest meal he can, turns to me and says, "I don't have any cash."

Me: "They take credit cards."
Terrible date: "Oh, I don't do credit cards at fast food restaurants. Can I have some cash." - which rendered me speechless for quite some time - but oh the things I could have said...
Me: *Taking the longest pause EVER, looking at him like he just asked me to give him my left kidney*

Terrible date: "Like 5 bucks if you got it."

Me: *Hands him the 5 dollars...only God knows why, I'll never see that 5 bucks again. But I figure the quicker I give him the money, the quicker I get home and am rid of him forever.*

He pays, get's change back, and pockets it. Shaking my head and laughing at the situation at this point, I'm just happy his car is headed in the direction of my apartment. When we arrive I let out a huge sigh of relief and get out of the car; and so does he! I should have asked him where the hell he thought he was going, but of course I didn't. He comes up to my apartment, sits on my couch with the assumption that he's going to scarf down the fast food meal that I just purchased for him right there in front of me, when finally I get the cojones to kick him out so I can go to bed and forget about this night. He seemed surprised (ohwake up son!). When I walked him to the door, the last words I ever heard him speak were "so, can I chat with you online tomorrow?"

Sure, right after my World of Warcraft marathon and before I start my Halo game... *Strike 3, 4, 5, and 6* - no explanation needed

I, in fact, said nothing and shut the door.

So there you have it folks. Next time a date goes bad and you're feeling a litte depressed, please feel free to revisit this post for a reminder of how bad it could have been - and of course for a good laugh!

Comments on other date stories that are rediculous, funny, or just plain sad highly encouraged.

Cheers!

-A

Sucked in

Why is it that no matter how hard I try I always end up getting sucked into this ridiculous celebrity gossip BS?

Seriously. It's so mind numbing. And yet, I follow these "scandals" like an entranced minion of the entertainment industry.

Wake UP Ashley! This crap never has been, and never will be, "entertainment."

Sad thing is, I know I'm dumber for following these things, even while I'm in the middle of watching the latest fight between Jon and Kate, but for some reason I can't freakin' make myself turn it off. What the hell is wrong with me?

It's not as if there's a lack of excitement in my life. I mean, skydiving, hello!

What's even sadder is that it's not just with really stupid shows like this, but I even love watching things like Extreme Home Makeover and The Biggest Loser, purely for the personal stories involved. Okay, and because I dream of having on of those kitchens designed by Ty some day.

Tell me I'm not the only 20-something out there who finds that after a long day at the office, a junky reality TV show is just the ticket. 

Is this an escape from life or a reminder that sometimes boring is better? 

What shows have sucked you in lately?

Cheers!

-A

Thanks, Dad

Given that it's the day after Father's Day, I thought it highly appropriate to give a shout out to my good ole pops.

This weekend was a whirlwind, driving home in torrential rains on Friday, family stuff on Saturday before heading back that night so I could work at the drop zone on Sunday.

So needless to say I feel a little more than guilty for not spending Sunday with my dad.

But after reading this post by rs27 - who writes by far one of the funnies blogs ever, Your Beard is Good - I felt inspired to reflect on all those things my dad has done for me over the years.

After a recent conversion with my big brother, who in his pre-marriage counseling has to fill out a chart, plotting points on a graph of his relationship with his family members over time, I got to thinking about my relationship with my parents over the years. 

Every teenage girl has those turbulent years with her mother, so we'll shy away from that. But don't worry, mom and I get along great now!

But in my 25 years, I can't once think of a time where I could have asked for a better dad.

I was lucky that during my elementary school days my dad worked the night shift. He came to all of my school functions, signed up to chaperon every field trip, and I loved it.

He would pick me up from school and I was always proud to be walking out with my dad while the other kids got on the bus. Sometimes, on nice days, he'd even pick me up on one of our motorcycles - think dirt bike, not Harley.

After school and on weekends we'd be out shooting the basketball or I'd be running errands with him. I loved the time we spent together in the car, just the two of us, talking about who knows what anymore.

The summer before I started high school my dad took over a newspaper delivery route for a family friend. It required middle of the night drop offs - from 1 until 4 a.m. typically - driving around the country back roads. This was a daily adventure that I decided to help him out with.

Some of the best conversations took place in the front seat of his truck that summer. I gained an appreciation for music of his generation and I'd like to think he did for mine as well, maybe. Eh, Dad?

We even became immune to scent of skunk together. Had to be there, I guess.

Needless to say, I was sad when that summer ended. After that, my teenage years set in and boys became a main focus.

But no matter what I was involved in, my dad was there for it. Track meets in the rain. Tennis matches in the heat of the fall. And we can't forget how much time he spent with me on the court every summer. A little tradition that carried through to college - playing a couple sets indoors any chance we got.

Moving away wasn't easy, especially since he's not much of a phone talker, but I cherish the moments I get to spend at home and those days he comes to visit me. Next, I'm working on getting him to jump out of an airplane with me. Baby steps.

Thanks Dad, for always being there.

What are the best memories of your dad?

Cheers!

-A

I'm a quitter

I've been thinking a lot lately about my running behavior, or lack there of, and have realized just how unsuccessful I've been in reaching my goals these last, ahem, five years.

During this time I've signed up for or verbally committed to run three half marathons and countless 5 and 10Ks that were never completed.

Training FAIL.

It was almost five years ago now that I endured my first running injury that put me in a back brace for almost six months.

Hyperextension WIN...?

Anywhosits, after much deliberation, I think I've come to a decision with my distance running. 

You ready for this?

I'm officially giving up competitive running. (!!!!!!)

Here's how I see it. Right now I only feel inclined to run so that I don't embarrass myself at the next race. And when my training doesn't go as planned I back out of the race. This then causes me to feel bad about myself and stay at home to eat Cool Ranch Doritos on the couch instead of going for a leisurely run. 

It's all a downward spiral from there.

When I first started running I used to truly enjoy the sport - running for me, for the enjoyment, for the high. Once I started racing, it became a whole different ball game, and my competitive spirit got the best of me. I ran for the race, to win. It was no longer about the intrinsic value.

Recently I've found that when there isn't a looming race to prepare for I enjoy the act of running much more. I can mix things up, do sprints when I'm inclined, walk for a little to enjoy the scenery without feeling guilty about it.

Not to mention that the pressure to hit the treadmill the minute I enter the gym significantly declines.

Let's not forget about the other factor of races - the money. Sure, it's only $25 to enter a race, but that's also the cost of a skydive. And we're all acutely aware of what I'd rather be doing.

Long story short, I need to run for me, not just to compete with the other runners around me.

I'm much happier when I participate in a variety of activities to keep me healthy, and honestly, when I'm training and running 6 days a week I'm not at my peak health. I have X-rays of two fractured feet to prove that.

So for now, I'm going to focus on enjoying my workouts, running or otherwise, and gain some endurance back the fun way. And who knows, maybe one day you'll see me at the starting line again, complete with Asics and racing number.

But until then, I'll see you in spinning class.

What's your workout of choice these days?

Cheers!

-A

Obsession

For all y'all who may not know me very well, let me tell you something about me. I'm a highly passionate person.

This is a trait I've come to love about myself. However, if not handled properly, it can backfire like that '56 Chevy truck parked on your grandpa's front lawn. Loud. Explosive. And everyone notices.

Personally, I have a tendency to get wrapped up those things I'm passionate about - to an almost obsessive extent.

Like when I started cooking a few months back and have found a new love for food. Sure, I wrote about the Food Network a lot but, to squash any beliefs you may have, no, I did not stalk Bobby Flay.

Though I still believe that one day Bobby will find my blog and decide to head to the Cleve for a guacamole Throwdown.

It's more like healthy obsession, if there is such a thing.

Take right now, for instance. I'm beyond obsessed with skydiving. 

*GASP* Shocker, right?

When I'm not working I'm thinking about, planning for, or participating in the sport. It's all I want to talk about, as you probably noticed. Sorry if it's annoying.

I'm constantly reading about it, watching videos, meeting new jumpers on the Skydiver Network. I want to soak up every aspect of the sport and learn everything I possibly can.

I even dream about it.

The last few nights my dreams have been consumed with visions of me and my skydiving friends throwing ourselves from perfectly good airplanes.

But, what usually happens when I get like this is that I run out of steam. The obsession subsides and I slowly start to lose interest. 

Though, I definitely don't see that happening here. Sure, the dreams may stop and I may read a little less, but my passion for skydiving isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

So tell me dear readers, what is your current obsession? What are you most passionate about this summer?

Cheers!

-A

A Sniffling Wreck

I am the worst when it comes to being sick.

Yes, me. The girl who jumps out of airplanes for fun. When I get a cold I'm the most whiny, pathetic sight you've ever seen.

What can I say, I just don't take being sick well.

And because of this, I'm doing a cop-out weekend recap post - my head is too stuffy to think of anything else.

Friday I decided, since it was going to be nice, to take the day off for some skydiving. So after sleeping in a bit, I headed out to Cleveland Parachute Center around 11 a.m. for my first jump of the day.

Success!

A quick 'chute repack and I was right back up in the sky for a second successful jump. 

The best part about it - I passed my AFF courses and am now a SOLO SKYDIVER!!

Friday night I headed over to the Nautica Pavilion for the O.A.R concert with the SO and his friends. I'd never seen them live before - they were good, but the show only lasted just over an hour. I'm not sure that was worth 40 bucks, honestly.

After, given that I missed the Stanley Cup Finals, I headed home to watch it - thank you, TiVO! 

And no, I don't want to talk about the outcome of that game, thankyouverymuch.

Saturday I was able to sleep in for a change before heading to the zoo for a pet adoption event. Going in, we knew there was no chance we'd be adopting a dog, so we pretty much went just to torture ourselves.

But I did get to talk to a golden retriever rescue group so I know where I might be adopting from in the future!!

From there we headed to one of my favorite Cleveland destinations - the West Side Market - to pick up some staples.

That night we went to the movies and saw The Hangover. Highly recommended, by the way. It's freakin' hilarious. 

We finished the night with another movie, Transformers, since the new one is coming out soon.

Sunday was spent at the drop zone again, after making breakfast tacos in the morning. YUM!

Then, last night, as I was winding down I realized I was getting sick. So here I am, feeling miserable with a cold that most people take in stride. 

I'm not too proud to admit I'm a baby when it comes to being ill. I just wish there was time to sleep it off.

Oh well, back to work.

How was your weekend?

Cheers!

-A

Feeling inspired

Last night as I sat on my butt watching re-runs of Extreme Home Makeover I couldn't help but think that I'm in desperate need of some inspiration.

Ever since the cruise I've been pretty lazy - in general. Not only is my body out of shape, so is my apartment. Finding time to hit the gym and clean just hasn't been a priority. 

Though in my defense, I haven't wanted to pick up too many new workout routines for fear of immense soreness like last week when I tried my first EA Sports Active workout. It was a lower body workout that, to be honest, I didn't even finish because my quads were killing me. 

And they continued to throughout the week. Thankfully, I did this on Tuesday so I was healed and ready for my skydives by the weekend.

The last thing I need right now is additional muscle soreness getting in the way of solid jumps.

But, after reading about this 30 day EA Sports Active challenge on GeekSugar that a number of bloggers are participating in, I found the inspiration I needed. I'm going to talk about it in public.

Or, in the blogosphere...same thing, right?

Don't worry, not every day, just on occasion so that I can stay accountable. And if you see me slacking, feel free to call me out on it. Hell, you can bring this to Twitter and Facebook too, if you want. "Man up, Mead!" Don't worry, I can take it.

I'm determined to finish this thing.

Of course, since I'm planning a couple jumps tomorrow on a lovely vacation day I've scheduled (!!!!) I won't be starting until this weekend, but you can bet come Monday I'll have plenty of gripes about my soreness.

Anyone interested in joining me? C'mon, you know you are.

Cheers!

-A

p.s., today is my mom's birthday. Happy B-day MOM!!

Full and shivering

Look Food, we all know how much I love you and your nourishing goodness, but I've got a serious beef with you.

Stupid pun not intended.

This is a problem I've been suffering with for years. Almost immediately after consuming your pure deliciousness my extremities get so cold they feel as if they might fall off.

C'mon food, I know this is your fault, it's been happening for too long now for this to be some kind of coincidence.

What's more - when I wash you down with pure, crystal clear water it only escalates the situation.

Now, this becomes a problem when I need to eat outside of my house, because it certainly isn't acceptable for a grown 25 year old woman to carry around a blanket to wrap herself in post-meal. And I'm certainly not wearing a Snuggie around in public. 

So tell me Food, what's a girl to do? Please do tell, because I know I'm not the only person out there who suffers this debilitating coldness after eating, and I'm certainly not going to go on living like this.

Until I get an appropriate response, I'm boycotting. I'll live on coffee and tea until we can work something out, Food.

Hungrily yours,

-A

p.s. Anyone who believes I'm actually giving up food, even for a second, is out of your bloody mind.

Stand on your head, biotch

If you haven't noticed, I've been a sad, whiny, pathetic excuse for a human being lately. 

Haha, human.

Sorry, had to be there.

What pisses me off most about this is that I have almost nothing to complain about. I mean, c'mon, who in their right mind bitches about having to balance fun stuff like skydiving and running outside in this beautiful weather and spending time with an amazing boyfriend like the SO.

Really, I don't suck so much at life as I suck at appreciating it. 

I've spent so much of my life being a perfectionist and control freak (which comes in handy at the office and in free fall, but is otherwise rather annoying) that I have yet to learn how to enjoy the moments that don't go quite as planned.

Honestly, when I first moved to the Cleve, I was much more laid back than this. My weekends were spent out drinking with whatever friends would have me and happily working 60+ hours a week because, well, I didn't have anything else to do.

But, to steal a line from the SO's lovely mom: my life wasn't that great back then.

There's gotta be a happy medium though, right? I mean, there is no reason why I can't strive for perfection while also being comfortable with where things are now.

I just have to figure out how to do that so I can stop being such a freakin' Debbie Downer and get back to being cynical about things that really matter - like the rude cashier who looked at me funny this morning at Starbucks. Bastard.

Cheers!

-A

Can you hear it skipping?

I'm going to sound like a broken record here, but I still feel as if I'm sucking at life. 

I thought maybe if I wrote about it last week that things would change - but they haven't. Not one bit.

A few weeks back I read an interview with Lost's Evangeline Lilly in Women's Health where she had a great line that hit close to home: "I'm not a highly social person. I'm a highly productive person."

Now, for many of my blogger friends this may seem confusing, since getting me to shut my yap, even in the virtual world, is nearly impossible. However, if you look at my daily patterns, I have a tendency to keep to myself.

Regardless, this isn't exactly the point. The point I'm trying to make is that I'm not only sucking at my social life, but at being productive, too.

So what am I doing then? Seems to me like I'm half-assing a lot of things. Though I'm trying my best to stay engaged and dedicated to my work.

And, naturally, get in as much skydiving as possible. Even still, I feel a little guilty that I'm not out at the drop zone more.

Enough whining about it. This week I'm really going to set my goals high and accomplish everything I set my mind to - including regular trips to the gym, studying and practice for skydiving, tying up loose ends on the numerous chores I have started, and spending some quality time with the SO. Who knows, maybe I'll even catch up with a friend or two.

So tell me dear readers, how do you do it all without being preoccupied with the other things you should be doing?

Cheers!

-A

It'll take you back

Guess what? I'm back in the Big Apple again!

GASP!!!

Huge surprise there, right? Given that Manhattan has become my home away from home these past 6 months.

Anywhosits. As I sit here, catching up on my Google Reader, I came across a post from my blogger buddy Susan over at Transient Travels. (She writes an amazing travel blog...a must read.)

Her most recent post entitled, "When Music Takes you Places" really hit home with me. 

As a lover of music and someone who finds memories attach easily to sound  - only beaten by smell in my book - I found there to be an endless number of songs that correlate to specific events or past times in my life.

So rather than record them all in Susan's comments, I thought I'd steal her post idea and make a list of my own.

What do ya think about that?!

Ha. Right, like I care what you think. I'm making the list anyway!

When I hear AC/DC's Thunderstruck I'm instantly back in Spartan Stadium, pre-game in the student section, back before they started using clips from the movie 300. This was a huge crowd booster as Sparty beat down the mascot from the opposing team.

As I mentioned to Susan, Untouched by The Veronicas takes me back to the Cessna-185 that I jump from at Cleveland Parachute. Somehow it's become the song I sing to myself as I climb to my knees and mentally prepare before each jump.

No Sunlight by Death Cab for Cutie takes me back to last year's trip to San Francisco. Actually, the entire Narrow Stairs album reminds me of my time in the city and the trip up to wine country. 

If I want to travel back to my high school band camp days (shut up) all I have to do is turn on Hysteria by Def Leppard and I'm back on the top bunk, curled up with Marilyn Manson's autobiography and relaxing from a day of field marching (shut up!).

Slide by the Goo Goo Dolls takes me back to a summer pool party I had in high school. It definitely reminds me of a more innocent time. Though I still have a little crush on Johnny!

Fall Out Boy's Thanks for the Memories has strong ties to when I first moved to Cleveland and some decisions I made along the way. Enough said.

Rihanna's Disturbia is by far one of her best, and will always remind me of the 10 days I spent in New York City, gallivanting around Manhattan and hosting a week long even in Chelsea. 

So tell me dear readers, what songs bring back vivid memories from your past?

Cheers!

-A

A few reviews

In the last few days I've had a chance to try out some new products that, I must say, I either loved or hated with a passion.

And since I care dearly for all my readers out there, I wanted to share my experiences with y'all so you can know what to expect if you find any of these products being added to your wish list.

Let's start with the one overly-negative experience and get that out of the way.

Mariani Dried Cherries by Far Away Foods - after picking these up at the store on a whim (I read somewhere recently that dried cherries have lots of antioxidants and have been dying to try them) I took them home to enjoy by the handful. After popping one - just one - in my mouth I bit down HARD on a cherry pit! 

Now, let me just say that when I was a kid this same thing happened to my dad, only it was with an olive that should have been pitted, and he had to have a root canal because he cracked his tooth. 

Today, I'm in pain. But of course, I looked at the back of the package and there's a small-print warning that, due to machine pitting, there may be remnants of pits left in the snack. 

So, they covered their asses, but I'm still pissed none the less, and will only be buying Sunmaid brand in the future!

(If you see these in the store, back away slowly and save your teeth!)

Now, onto greener pastures, shall we?

EA Sports Active for Nintendo Wii - I avoided Wii Fit like the plague, mainly because of availability and cost, (oh and that little fact that you have to own up to how much you actually weigh and stuff on that little board...) but at a minor $59 bucks on Amazon, I decided to give this at-home workout game a chance. Last night I took it for a spin. To my surprise, the 17 minute "easy" lower body workout I participated in about killed me. 

If you see me walking funny today, it's because my quads are killing me. Damn you inventor of squats. You suck! But this product certainly doesn't. It was a fun and challenging workout. I can't wait to test out another workout - once my legs are back from their current Jell-O-like state.

Special K Protein bars (strawberry) - I found these by accident, needing to pick up a little something on the way to skydiving a couple weeks back. Not only are they delicious, but they aren't the type of protein bar that sits like a brick in your stomach. And the texture isn't grainy at all. 

(These come in three flavors, all delish I'm sure!)

These have become my standard breakfast, skydiving or just heading to the office. It's what I should have eaten instead of those two cupcakes today (follow me on twitter for more stupid updates like this @ashleymead).

What products have you tried out lately?

Cheers!

-A

Sucking a little

Hi. Guess what? I suck.

Oh, you already knew that? Well then I'm late in the game figuring that one out.

Things have been so crazy lately, between work, wedding stuff (my big brother, not me, for those who haven't been paying attention), skydiving, practicing skydiving, spending time with friends and the SO, and just the general upkeep of life. Sometimes being an adult is exhausting.

Can't I just go back to being a kid again? With no responsibilities, getting to play outside and be all innocent and stuff. CAN'T I???

Then, maybe it wouldn't matter so much that I'm stinking it up so much. Just look at all the areas where I suck:

*Family: This weekend I went home for some wedding stuff, stayed for less than 24 hours for my bridesmaid duties and barely got to see my dad or brother at all. I haven't seen my grandma since Christmas and this trip was no different. I even had to postpone dinner plans with friends so I could make it back for skydiving. Which brings me to my next point...

*Friends: I haven't seen my Cleveland friends in weeks - nor have I returned phone calls from some of my friends around the country. When I know a long conversation is due it's hard to find the time, making the next conversation just that much longer. Vicious cycle.

*Exercise: This is a biggie. I've committed to a 5 miler on July 4th and the Chicago 1/2 marathon. Right now I might be able to comfortably run 2 miles without stopping. Maybe.

*The SO: Another biggie. I'm trying my best to be a good girlfriend, but there are still times, like this weekend, where things are so whirlwind that I'm not around much. And when I am in town Cleveland Parachute gets a lot of my free time. At least I managed to attend his rec league basketball game last night. Brownie points there, right?

*Adult life stuff: Bills, cleaning, car maintenance. If it wasn't for online bill pay the bill collectors would be knocking down my door. Sometimes my apartment looks like a tornado went through and my car has needed an oil change for way too long now.

*Skydiving: Although it may seem like all my time is devoted here, it's not. This license isn't going to earn itself and unless I can stick it out and get in multiple jumps on the weekends I may not meet my goal of 'A' by the fall.

*Sleep: I'm a girl who not only likes her sleep, but I need it to function. This 5-6 hour a night pattern that I've got going on right now just isn't cutting it.

*Blogging: Between work and SkydiveChick I've been neglecting y'all. Sorry my posts haven't been the most engaging lately. I promise to try and step it up a little.

It appears, that I suck at life. Seems like there was a time in my life where I was on top, and I don't know how to turn it back around. 

HELP!

-A

Photography Friday: AFF Skydiving

Welcome to the first skydiving edition of Photography Friday.

About freaking time, right? 

I know, I've been terrible. With the beautiful weather comes skydiving, not photography. Which is precisely why I'm going to share a couple of my favorites from my adventures last weekend!

(Check me out in my jump suit and rig. w00t!)

Currently I'm in the Advanced Free Fall (AFF) training phase of student skydiving. I get to free fall between two instructors and ride down under the canopy solo. It's an exhilarating experiences to say the least.

These photos were taken by 'Danger' at Cleveland Parachute - mainly for training purposes, but they sure are pretty, too! Thanks, Dan.

(The climb out)

(Just out of the aircraft, falling between my instructors)

(Altitude check!)

(Deploying the 'chute.)

(Coming in for a smooth landing.)

I've said it before and I'll say it again, if you've ever considered, even for a moment, that you might want to go skydiving, you have to do it.

If you ever want to come out with me, let me know. Cleveland Parachute is the best!

Cheers!

-A

Can't get enough skydiving? Head on over to SkydiveChick.com to follow my adventures and learn more about the skydiving community.

It's WHAT day?

As I've mentioned before, I LOVE long weekends. But seriously - how on Earth is it Thursday already?

There's so much that still needs to get done. Yikes!

And I found out recently that I'll be headed back up to Michigan on Friday to help with wedding stuff. My big brother is getting married and it's a bridesmaid's duties to try on pretty dresses in the planning phase.

Okay, so there's more to it than that, but on Saturday, that's essentially what I'll be doing.

But with the short notice and my pre-planned skydiving adventures this weekend it's going to be a busy couple days. Looks like the weather is going to cooperate so if all goes as planned I should be able to head up to Michigan, do some wedding stuff, have sushi with some friends and see their new puppy - we all know that's a priority - and head back down for Sunday morning jumping at Cleveland Parachute.

It'll likely be exhausting, but totally worth it!

What do y'all have planned for this weekend?

Cheers!

-A

p.s. If you're interested in keeping up with my skydiving adventures or just want to know more about the sport and what's going on in that community, come on over to SkydiveChick.com - or follow theskydivechick on Twitter (that's me!) and check it out.

A complete blank

My mind is, at least.

The last couple days I've been thinking hard about the topic of today's post, and to be honest, I got nothin'.

Most of my weekend was spent skydiving - which I'm sure comes as no surprise - and y'all don't wanna hear the details of that, I'm sure.

But on the way in this morning I did think of something that might be of interest.

So as you might be aware I'm slightly obsessed with the Food Network and Bobby Flay. Well while I was in NYC last week a few of my colleagues and I headed out to Mesa Grill - one of Bobby's Manhattan restaurants.

I was surprised to see an item on the menu that was recently showcased in a Throwdown. It was a chile relleno. 

As you can see, the presentation was gorgeous - and the taste was even more sensational. It left me with a spicy taste in my mouth for the rest of the night.

We also indulged on his dessert sampler that consisted of 6-7 featured items on the dessert menu. Needless to say, my standard PinkBerry run was not needed this time around.

If you're ever in the NYC area, check out Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill. You won't be disappointed.

Cheers!

-A

The Three Day Weekend

(Editor's Note: with my 200th post I tried switching it up a bit and discussing a topic that's a little more serious. Well, with a whopping ZERO comments we can see how well that went over. So, it's back to talking about me I guess.)

Gotta love a good three day weekend!

With Memorial Day right around the corner I have decided to add to this lovely extended weekend by extending it just a little longer - yep, I took Tuesday off, too. w00t!

Normally I'd have something great planned for these four days, but to be honest, with my busy business travel schedule as of late I'm excited to have a little down time.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not entirely without plans. 

Tomorrow morning I have to get up early to head down to Cleveland Parachute for a little ground school and a couple of jumps.

These are the first two solo jumps toward my license. And I couldn't be more excited about it. Though I am a little nervous - going out on my own. But what's life without a little challenge, right?

The rest of the weekend is going to consist of relaxing, catching up on my reading, meeting up with some girlfriends and doing some much needed spring cleaning around the apartment. There are clothes in bins that I've had stashed away for way too long now.

Anyone know of any good second-hand stores?

Tuesday tentatively is reserved for a 'chute packing class. Girl's gotta learn sometime, right?

So tell me dear readers, what are you doing with your long weekend?

Cheers!

-A

Age 12 is just too young for that!

I just want to start this off by saying that this is my 200th post. And tomorrow is my 25th birthday. This week is just filled with crazy milestones. Where the heck has the time gone? Thanks for sticking around!

There's been a lot of hype in the news and in blogs about the sexting craze that seems to be happening among teens - talking dirty via text, and whatnot.

This is something that parents are all in a tizzy about, but I'm starting to think they are missing the bigger picture here.

I've heard stories from my friends who have siblings still in high school about conversations they overhear between these teenagers about "getting laid" last night or giving a "BJ" in a janitors closet.

One of my teacher friends has even walked into a middle school bathroom to find two students having sex in a stall. We're talking middle school here people!

I didn't even understand the mechanics of sex at that age, let alone how to have it standing up, balanced between a mop and a floor waxer. My excitement consisted of waiting for the bell to ring and dismiss us from class so I could walk by my crush at his locker and pass him the note I wrote him in study hall.

"Will you go out with me? Circle yes or no." And no, "out" did not mean to the girls bathroom to hump it out.

Okay, so my lame past is totally not the point.

This behavior is definitely something that won't be remedied by taking away your teenager's (or pre-teen, as the case with middle schoolers) cell phone. There's definitely a deeper issue here.

I've always believed that kids should be properly educated about sex. Now I'm not just talking about preaching abstinence and showing grody pictures of STIs to scare kids out of having sex. No, what the public school system really needs to do is discuss the options - maybe then we wouldn't have so many "oops" situations on our hands.

(Editor's Note: I've heard that some schools are educating on contraceptive options, but where I grew up, in podunk Michigan, they did not.)

It seems like texting is the ICQ of our days - please tell me I'm not the only nerd who used this technology. Best IM ever!

Anywhosits. Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe it is all about the sexting, and if we take away the cell phones the rest of the behavior will stop too. 

But I tend to think that kids these days (I'm sounding older already) are starting down the path of finding their sexuality a lot sooner than we ever imagined doing. 

With all the crazy MTV shows that portray drinking and drugs and sex as glamorous, who could blame them right? So maybe, let's take away all technology and kick the kids of today outside for some fresh air - after all, that's what our parents did to us, right?

What are your thoughts on the teen sexting issue?

Cheers!

-A

It's already a quarter over!

My life, that is.

This week I turn 25. Ugh, just looking at that statement makes me throw up in my mouth a little. What the hell happened to "the best years of my life" or whatever?

Rather than dwell on the fact that I'm now an adult - with the ability to rent a car at standard pricing - I've decided to make some changes and set some goals for myself along the way.

Sort of like New Year's Resolutions for the 25th year of life, if you will. I'll be damned if the quarter-life crisis is going to overtake this girl. *insert double thumb point in my direction*

It's time now to take a look at the direction I'm heading and make the necessary alterations. After all, I really only have 5 more good years in me before things stop functioning properly.

Hello adult diapers!

I kid, I kid.

But by the time 30 hits I'd like to have accomplished a lot and be well on my way to having the life I've always dreamed.

Like, for instance, focusing my attention on the people in my life. I've spent the majority of the last three years focusing solely on my career - and the four years before that on getting a career, and the four years before that getting into school so I can get a career...you get the point.

Now, with the addition of the SO and his wonderful family, planned trips with the old college crew, my brother getting married to the love of his life, and my beyond supportive friends and family who have seen me through moves across the country and back - and are still in my life, mind you - it's about time I threw a little of my positive energy in their direction.

The older I get the more I realize just how important the people who support you are to your success. It's true that I'm not going to be lying on my death bed wishing I spent more time working. Thank heaven for my employers encouragement of a work/life balance.

Here are a few other goals I intend to accomplish in my 25th year of life:

1) Run a 1/2 marathon. I've been saying it for the last few years and have been hindered by injuries every time. I think I've got the training figured out - now it's time to follow through. Chicago, here I come!

2) Get my skydiving license. I'm going for my A by the end of the summer. Then I can jump anywhere I travel. Maybe my B license by 26?

(I dream of one day being on a team like this)

3) Take on a new challenge at work. I need something to get me out of my comfort zone, that's where I grow the most. I will find this project.

4) Get my finances in order. Lately, I've been a whole lot of talk and not a lot of action on this front. And with my rather expensive hobbies saving hasn't been easy. To be out of debt and living comfortably by 26 is the goal.

5) Read a book every month. This might be a long shot, but I really want to get back into my reading habit. 

6) Focus on my health. This is the time to get and stay healthy. It won't always be this easy.

 

I'm sure there are more, but that's a good start, and I've got a couple more days to lay out all these goals.

So tell me dear readers, what are some of your goals for the next year?

Cheers!

-A