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

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

Little bit of everything

Today feels pretty random, so here's a random mess of stuff about today.

I'm currently in love with:

-Anberlin. I can't get enough of their music. Especially from the Cities album.

-The West Side Market. This has become a regular Saturday morning venue.

-Skydiving. But I'm sure y'all know that by now. Solo jump on Saturday!

-The Tweetie iPhone application. I often update from my phone even when TweetDeck is right in front of my face.

-The SouperMarket. Not only some of the best soup on the planet, but they have fabulous salads, too. My favorite is the Tomato Ginger with a Market Greens salad. There's one in Ohio City and Lakewood. Score!

Confessions:

-I often read my horoscope. Today's is spot on as it addresses my desire for change. It suggested wearing lavender eye shadow today. So I did. That's slightly embarrassing.

-When SmartWater is on sale I buy it because I think it tastes better than any other water - even though deep down I know it's from a tap somewhere.

-I cheated on my vegetarianism this weekend with lots of meat and cheese. And honestly, it wasn't that satisfying.

-Most everyone I know thinks I have no brain to mouth filter. In reality, there's a lot I consciously don't say.

-Ice cream makes my stomach hurt, but I eat it anyway because I love it so much.

-Mornings are extremely productive for me, but if I were you, I'd never, ever talk to me before I have two cups of coffee.

-I've had to start wearing my glasses at work. I think my computer is ruining my vision.

I wish...

-...I had the money to visit Dallas every couple months. I miss my friends.

-...there were more hours in the day so I could have more time to be lazy. (That should probably be in the confessions section, eh?)

-...I could see my dad every day.

-...there wasn't so much clutter. It feels like I'm always cleaning.

-...I wasn't turning 25 this week.

-...someone was watching over my finances, making sure I could stick to my budget.

I'm excited for:

-Dinner at Mesa Grill on Wednesday.

-Finishing ground school so I can solo jump this weekend.

-Visiting my family at home this summer.

-NHL playoffs. My 'Wings have a good shot at the cup again this year!

What are some of your random tidbits this morning?

Cheers!

-A

And of course - we can't forget the random comic of the day. In honor of Monday - Dilbert!

Quiz or obsession?

I have a confession to make.

You know those little quizzes that seem to be popping up by the minute in your Facebook news feed?

Secretly, I love them. And no, it's not because I give a crap about your answers...kidding, you know I love you... But I complete them every time I see a new one that catches my eye.

Though I never, ever have them published - just so no one knows my little secret. Until now that is.

I'm not sure what it is about these things, but they are just so much fun. In high school I was always the girl who would get those really long e-mail surveys, fill them out with gusto and forward on to all my friends. It was an obsession, to say the least.

And now, Facebook isn't helping my need to find out stupid personality quirks based on questions like: what's your favorite Jelly Belly flavor? It's tutti-frutti in case you were wondering.

Anywhooo...

Given that I've never made these public, I thought this might be the perfect venue for sharing. So without further adieu, here is my personality according to Facebook.

Q: What breed of dog are you?
A: Golden Retriever

You are fun, loving and kind to others. You are very outgoing and love to meet new people. You are a faithful friend and sympathetic and understanding of others and their needs. You can be full of energy, but know how to relax and take it easy as well. You thrive when you are around the people that you love. You are golden in both personality and heart. You are something special, so don't stop being who you are!

And this is totally one of my favorite breeds ever.

Q: What color is your heart? (who comes up with this crap?)
A:Violet

The Violet Heart is resourceful, thorough, dependable, responsible, loyal, patient, placid, stable, sensual, affectionate, comfortable, solid, earthy, strong, money-oriented, practical, productive, cautious, musical, and artistic. They can also sometimes be stubborn, indulgent, insecure, acquisitive, possessive, rigid, stodgy and slow.

I dunno about the slow part, but I'm definitely stubborn and indulgent!

Q: How Texan are you?
A: A little bit Texas

The whole not owning a gun thing definitely set me back on this scale. But there's so much more to being a Texan at heart.



Q: What Periodic Element are you?
A: Iron

You are strong in character, emotions, ethics and physically. People who know you believe you are reliable and steady. You say what you mean and you will follow through with it because you weighed the positives and negatives of the commitment before you even said yes. Life may though difficulties your way but you are able to cope with them because of your strength.

Iron seemed scary at first, but I like what it's got to say.

Q: What Hills character are you?
A: Whitney Port

I'm not a regular watcher, is this good?

What Facebook quizzes have you taken lately? Oh c'mon, fess up. You know you have!

Cheers!

-A

But...it won't fit in that bucket.

In reflecting on my amazing weekend with the lovely Christina, a conversation about our bucket lists comes to mind.

This was a branch off from a previous discussion about passions - and living for what you're passionate about, and most importantly, finding someone to share your life with that's equally passionate about something....anything.

Most definitely an important quality - but that's a topic for another day.

Given that we've been skydiving, multiple times now, that's a scratch off the ole bucket list for both of us. But a question that came to mind is this: can you alter your list? Because now, my ambition has changed - instead of "go skydiving" can I change my list to reflect my desire to earn my USPA license?

It also got me to thinking more about the other things that I hope to experience in this life.

Up until now, I really haven't developed such a list.

Shocker right? The queen of obsessive list making doesn't have a list of things she wants to accomplish in this lifetime? WHAT?!?

I guess the closest I've come to doing so is through my New Year's Resolution making each year.

Well it's about damn time that changed. So I'm starting one. Right here. In public.

Because who better to share this with than y'all?

While my list doesn't nearly compare - what can I say, I just don't have the guts to try out for a show like Survivor -here’s a snippet of what I’ve got so far:

1) Skydive Earn my B skydiving license from the USPA.

2) Teach a creative writing course.

3) Eat sushi in Japan.

4) Attend SXSW and Austin City Limits.

5) Scuba dive the Great Barrier Reef.


6) Ride in a hot air balloon.

7) Visit the Taj Mahal.

8) Ski the Rockies.

9) Own a dog.

10) Volunteer at a soup kitchen.

11) Learn the last dance from Dirty Dancing.

12) Visit Rio de Jenero.



13) Hold a koala bear in Australia.

14) Run a marathon.

15) Swim with dolphins.

16) Complete a HALO skydive.

17) Throw fish in Seattle.

18) Recycle and become more Green.

19) Visit the zen and lotus gardens in Kyoto, Japan.

20) Win the lottery.

This is just a small glimpse at my list. What can I say, as I started putting it together my ambitions started rolling in.

And of course, some of these I've completed, like skiing in the Rockies, and many of them require world travel - some are even dreams that may never come true (ahem, the lottery. But I'm trying, and you gotta play to win, and someones gotta win so you never know...).

This is a list that will definitely continue to grow and maybe even change over time.

So tell me dear readers, what's on your bucket list, and what have you already been able to cross off?

Cheers!

-A

Confined to a padded room

That's where I should be right about now.

Typically, I'm not much of a clumsy person - sure, I have my blonde moments as expected, but they usually don't put myself or others in danger.

Well I'm not entirely sure what's going on today, but there has been a string of events this morning that has me concerned for what's to come.

-When I opened the refrigerator to get water to take to work, a very juicy melon rolled out and splattered it's stickiness all over the floor and my feet. Then I hit myself in the shin with the door. And I never did get any water.

-In an effort to give my pasty white legs a little boost of color before the cruise, I sprayed on some self-tanner last night. Not only did I manage to produce unnatural orange streaks that spiral down my legs, but the bottoms of my feet are now officially Longhorns fans. Who knew walking barefoot in the bathroom post-spray was a bad idea?

-While getting out of my car I caught the heel of my shoe on my seat belt - don't ask how - and twisted my knee. Pretty sure the popping sound that ensued wasn't healthy.

-Upon opening my yogurt cup, I was welcomed by three large splatters projectliling onto my face.

-Since I never did get water at home, I stopped at a store in my building to get a bottle. After paying I managed to knock over the bottle on the counter, subsequently spilling the entire community penny tray onto the counter and the floor.

-With all the commotion this morning I forgot to put on makeup. Luckily I carry a few staples with me in case of emergency. Let's just say I still can't remove all the particles of mascara that made it into my right eye and leave it at that, shall we?

And now I have to do my best to concentrate at the office while remaining relatively injury free. Oy, it's going to be a long day.

Cheers!

-A

My very own confessional

In sticking with my recent list theme, it seemed like a good idea to get a few things out in the open.

Believe it or not, I have flaws.

*GASP* - I know, you couldn't believe it either.

But believe it people, and there's more than you might think. Some of which I seriously need to work on.

And what a better way to kick my ass into gear than to share these issues on the interwebs for all to see, and subsequently mock me for.

No, ending sentences with prepositions is not on the list...apparently it should be.

Oh Lord -- on that note:

1) I am a social media over-sharer - as you're about to find out first hand.

2) Sometimes I like really bad music - currently, I'm listening to Nickelback's "Gotta be somebody." Yes, as someone who preaches her hatred for this group, I'm extremely embarrassed!

3) I procrastinate constantly - not just at work, but generally in life as well. Last year my boss told me I was an adrenaline junkie during my review. I'm pretty sure he wasn't complimenting me.

4) After the SO sleeps over, I use his pillow - it still smells like him, and for some reason that makes falling asleep a little easier. Sorry for the mush...but it's true.

5) My spending is OUT OF CONTROL - how is it possible that the economy is doing so bad when I'm out there feeding it daily?! This needs to be nipped in the bud immediately! Saving tips appreciated...

6) Keeping in touch with friends is hard - unfortunately, after college my friends and I scattered across the country for job offers, because even back then jobs in Michigan were scarce. And now we're all so busy with our careers and separate lives that phone calls are few and far between. Luckily this summer some of us are having a little reunion in LA, but that's not enough to tide me over. I dream everyday about living in the same city with them again....sigh.

7) It's rare that I disconnect - from phone, Internet, I even have Facebook on my Blackberry - probably for the reason above. I fear losing touch altogether. Though I never, ever take my phone into the gym or on a run with me. Gotta have some Ashley time every now and again.

And with #7 we loop back into being an online over-sharer. Though y'all seem to enjoy it so maybe I'm doing something right, eh?

So tell me dear readers, as I walk away slightly red in the face, what confessions do you have to share with us? C'mon, don't leave me blushing alone.

Cheers!

-A

More of the good stuff

It's Monday again, can you believe it? Where did the weekend go?

Oh, that's right. I spent mine in a car.

Given that Christmas was the last time I visited my parents in Michigan, I forgot how draining these quick trips can be. And this time was even quicker than usual.

Leaving on Saturday morning really puts a dent in the amount of quality time with the fam. But what can I say, yoga was calling my name and knowing that I've gotta be ready for beach wear in less than a week, I really couldn't deny this need.

After arriving home I had just enough time to chat with the 'rents before heading out again to get my hair did. Oh and in case you care I'm a blonde again...whew! I definitely feel more like myself.

And after my appointment I decided to do a little more cruise shopping - I was already in the mall, after all.

Speaking of spending, I really need to get my budget in order after this vacation. Know of any good financial advisers?

Anyhow, lucky for me by the time I got back, a vegetarian pizza from my favorite joint back home - Deluca's - was waiting for me on the table.

Well, there goes the yoga class....but it was definitely well worth it. Yumm...

But the heavy dough put me to bed early. And in an effort not to miss my Spartans beat down on USC yesterday evening, I left Michigan earlier than anticipated. Sorry Mom and Dad. I promise to come back soon!

But in the meantime, I thought it would be fun to make some additions to my list of The Good Stuff that I started earlier this month. Because, let's be honest here, there's lost of good stuff out there.

• Shirts straight out of the dryer. No matter how warm it is outside, donning a freshly dried hoodie always feels amazing. And it smells great too!
• Trips on the company dime. This stems from my recent week spent in NYC. I love visiting that city. But it's expensive. So traveling there for work is always welcome as I get to stay for free. Sure, I spend the majority of the time working, but those little moments of downtime make it all worth it.
• When a Barista learns your order. I love the Starbucks in my building. More than that, I love the fact that two of the Baristas know what I'm going to order. It definitely makes you feel like a valued customer.
• An unexpected March Madness upset. Even when I didn't call it in my bracket, this is great to see. Like Cleveland State beating out Wake on Friday. Or Siena almost beating Louisville. And we all remember George Mason's run to the Final Four 3 years ago. Gotta love a great underdog victory!
• Being a regular. Whether it's a bar, restaurant or even a store, being a regular somewhere has it's perks. You know there's always something you're going to like, you can bring friends and family to share in the experience and it never gets old, and sometimes even discounts are involved...just because they know you.
• Perfect hugs. Let's be honest here, I'm a hugger. Friends, family, even people I've just met. And nothing beats a good hug. You know what I'm talking about. You're with a significant other and you find that spot that's just so comfortable you never want to let go. Yeah...that's what I'm talking about.
• Natural blue. You know the color I mean - when you look up and say to yourself, "wow, the sky is really blue today." Or when you go on vacation and the water is this bright blue - almost turquoise - and yet when you walk in it's crystal clear. There's no color in the world like it.

Can you tell my brain has already checked out on vacation. Sorry y'all. I'm sure it's getting a little old. But there will be plenty of encounter stories when I get back. And of course, a Photography Friday with lots to share.

What'd y'all do this weekend? What are your additions to The Good Stuff?

Cheers!

-A

We'll see about that

Life has been rather random lately. Not that I'm complaining - it keeps me on my toes, which I like.

You know what else I like, lists. This should come as no surprise to most of you. Just check out the number of posts labeled "lists" on this blog, that should tell you something. Or don't. I certainly wouldn't if I were you. It's much easier to take my word for it.


But this is not about my laziness.

I highly recommend, if you're also a lover of listing, that you check out this list of ways to acquire peace and happiness. It made me happy just reading it. This also happens to be from one of my favorite photography blogs, Shutter Sisters. You should definitely check back often for some great photography.

Oh wait, maybe it is about my laziness after all - I'm not even writing my own list.

Okay, okay - I'm sure I can come up with some random stuff.

What I really should be doing is making a list of all the crap that needs to be taken care of before my trip like buying sunscreen and getting cash from the ATM - because, really, who carries cash these days...certainly not me. Though this is hardly the venue for that type of list...y'all don't need to waste your time reading that boring drivel.

But I'm sure there are some things I can complain about in the meantime - to help balance out the peace and happiness stuff, anyhow.

Hmm...let's see.....................

Okay, so we're in the process of moving our office to another building right now and the office is so cluttered, and my personal office is half packed and the disorganization of it all is driving me bonkers.

Not to mention the fact that at home I'm only half unpacked from last week's New York trip and I've already started piling up items to take on the cruise - so my apartment is pretty messy too.

Today started with an early deadline which I took care of from home. It felt like a good start to the day - you know those days when you wake up and you're all like, "yeah, I own today. I'm going to kick today's ass." That thought was derailed the moment this intense, nagging headache set in. I'm not a girl who gets headaches, so this is rough.

Shut up, Thursday. I can hear you laughing. Don't be a bitch. Sure, you're whooping my ass now, but the day's not over. I have Advil and Enya on my side...you haven't won yet, Thursday.

Though it would help if the atmosphere was a little more serene around here. With all the disassembling of office furniture there's a lot more banging, stomping and power tool noise than usual.

Don't even get me started on the abundance of moving men walking past my office. Guess I won't be able to get in my usual 2 p.m. nap, eh? Just kidding, just kidding. Though I did used to work for someone who did this daily. Seriously. But that's a story for another day.

If there wasn't so much work to be done I wouldn't have to concentrate so hard. Not that I should be complaining.These days, lots of work is a good thing. But I am doing everything in my power not to mentally check out before next Friday. It's tough. I'm in desperate need of a vacation. Haven't had a real vacation since college...over three years ago.

Wow, I'm old.

On that note, it's time to excuse myself and show Thursday what I'm made of.

What's on your random list this week?

Cheers!

-A

*Editors Note: see I told you I could use my brain and make a list...random as it may be, it's highly appropriate to my current state.

Things about spring

As I look out my window at the rising sun, the corners of my mouth are turning up slightly - yes, just slightly, I haven't had my coffee yet, alright - because it's starting to feel like spring is here.

Living in the North, a frozen tundra from November until March, April, or even May, sometimes it can feel like the warmth will never come. Of course, once the 80+ degrees and 99 percent humidity of mid-summer hits it's easy to forget the cool breeze that accompanies a crisp winter morning.

When it comes down to it, I tend to be a fan of the North. I know, I know. After this brutal winter I must sound f-ing crazy. But truth of the matter is, it's only socially acceptable to take off so many clothes before you just have to suffer the heat and sweat it out, but you can always put on more clothing...

Yeah...now you see my point, eh?

If not, come back in the heat of the summer and then tell me how you feel about it.

Anyhow, so not the point.

Spring has a way of getting me excited - in more ways than one.

Now would be a good time to remove your head from the gutter, because I'm talking about a few other little gifts of spring that I enjoy:

Daylight savings. Now, I know I bitched about this last week, because it definitely threw me off - way more than it ever has before - but I do love the longer daylight hours at night, and honestly, it's great to get out of bed and head to work when it's still dark in the morning.

Leaving the windows open. At the house, in the car. Oh how I love the feel of spring breeze.

Warm rain. Though most of the year I bitch incessantly when it rains, a good spring rain has this way of making everything green, and it smells so refreshing. It's also pretty great to run in - and speaking of running...

Running outside. Sure, I do this on occasion in the winter, when the roads aren't icy and I know I won't kill myself. But it's so much more pleasant in the warmer months and your lungs aren't screaming from sucking in the below zero wind chills.

NCAA basketball. Can you say March Madness?



Seasonal fruits and veggies. Seeing ripe avocado in the grocery store makes me want to make a big batch of guacamole, pick up a case of Corona and throw a party for my friends out on my porch. Oh wait, I just might do that...



Baseball season. Though I've never been much of a follower, because 100+ games a season is just too much to handle, baseball screams American fun. Watching the sport on TV is out of the question for me - there's just not enough going on and the men aren't pretty enough to watch chewing and spitting and scratching in the dugout - but going to games with a group of friends is always a great time. What's even better, I'm an Indian's fan! So for once I can actually watch a sport with my friends in this town and be cheering on the same team. W00t!

(Front row, upper deck at Game 3 of the ALCS in 2007. Last play before the win!)

Peaceful walks to the park, sitting by the lake. The park is just a short walk from my apartment, and the first summer I moved here I found this great little spot to perch on a rock by the lake. It's secluded and really helps me clear my head.

(A shot from perched atop my favorite rock.)

Patios. Come springtime everyone is out and about. In the North, 40 degrees means shorts weather for some. And you gotta love when all the bars open up their patios for the summer. There's nothing like a refreshing beer on the patio with good friends.

Flip Flops. Enough said.



Of course, these are all in addition to the obvious benefit of being able to walk outside without snot freezing to your face.

So tell me dear readers, what is your favorite spring past time?

Cheers!

-A

To-do list

Well, I'm half way through my stint in New York and I've barely put a dent in my to-do list.

It wasn't long, but aside from actual work, there were a few things I needed to accomplished while I was here:

1) Grand Central Photo Shoot - this has partially happened. But one of the best parts of Grand Central Station is the lighting, and honestly, that wasn't quite right yesterday. I'll be heading back tomorrow or Friday I hope.



2) Chelsea Market Visit - the intent was to go this morning after a run, neither of which happened. Maybe I can sneak out for lunch? I'm desperately in need of some Ninth Street Espresso and a tall glass of chocolate milk - the best of which is only found at CM.


3) Local Shopping - this isn't completely necessary, but being in the Big Apple it's just one of those things to do. Plus, I could really use a few things before the upcoming vacation. It's penciled in for after work today, we'll see how well that works in my favor.



4) Hotel Runs and Workouts - this is my being obsessive over not gaining weight before the aforementioned cruise and an attempt to stay somewhat on a normal schedule. And given that I'm staying at a pretty fabulous hotel right next door to Grand Central, they've got a well-stocked gym. Monday was a bust, but last night I made it. Fingers crossed for three more before the week's over.



5) A night out with colleagues - has been scheduled! I'm lucky to have some kick-ass co-workers in our office here that have decided on a night on the town the day before I head home. Looking forward to a great dinner and plenty of wine tomorrow night.



So maybe I'm not doing so bad after all. Though it doesn't seem like I've accomplished much yet, I have a good feeling that I'll walk away satisfied with the trip and content with my NYC fix for the time being.

Cheers!

-A

Lovely mornings

As I've mentioned before, I love mornings. Though I don't necessarily consider myself a "morning person" per se, it's definitely rewarding to get up bright and early and start the day off right.

Yes, I know, you're sitting there thinking to yourself "why, Ashley, why?" But the better question is, what on God's green Earth is there to do at the crack of dawn anyhow?

Well, let me tell you.

But first, let me just say that for me, it's not so much the act of sleeping that I enjoy as much as the pleasure I take in being comfortable. I've always been one of those people who will lie in bed on the weekends, awake, just to take in the bliss of comfort between the sheets.

Mmm, but I digress.

Hard as it is to drag my booty out of bed and leave the comfort of my sheets on a weekday morning, I've found that certain activities really have a way of kick-starting the day.

Ha, look at that. It rhymed.

For instance, if I know I'm getting up to go to yoga, that means I've got two solid hours before I even have to think about work.

There are so many benefits to getting up early, I thought I'd share a little of that wisdom with y'all.

-Morning workouts and/or yoga. The earlier you plan this, the sooner it's out of the way. That is, if you're not one of those freaks who actually looks forward to working out.

-Brewing coffee at home. Okay, so I have one of those coffee machines that you can preset to brew at a certain time, but I have this thing about keeping unnecessary appliances plugged in when not in use. My mom taught me that...thanks, ma. So getting up early allows me to brew and start enjoying before ever leaving the house - which of course saves me money as I'm not going to Starbucks everyday.

-Blogging: reading, commenting and posting. I like to take this time to sip my home-brewed coffee and catch up on my sports, photography, and travel blogs, check up on what's happening on 20-something bloggers, and of course, read and comment on all y'alls blogs. And it can all be fit in before the work day begins.

-Getting to the office early. Not just for blogging, but to catch up on e-mails that may have come through the night before, get organized, review to-do lists, and get going on some uninterrupted work. It's pretty fabulous when there's not a phone call, e-mail or procrastinating co-worker stopping by every five minutes to disrupt your day.

-Sunrises. Okay, so I'm a sap and love to stop and watch the sunrise. It's honestly the most peaceful part of my day. And couldn't we all use a little more tranquility in our lives?



Of course, take this for what it's worth, because there are some downfalls:

-Lunch hunger pains come a little sooner. When my stomach starts audibly rumbling during the 10:30 staff meeting I only have the 5 a.m. start to blame.

-Early brain shut-down. Come 5 o'clock my work brain is mush and I'm ready for some mind-numbing relaxation....which brings me to my next point.

-Too much time in the evenings to sit in front of the TV and eat garbage. And for someone with very little will-power, finding nighttime motivation can be a bitch.

-Tiredness setting in at 9 p.m. Talk about feeling old!

Regardless, I still think the pros outweigh the cons. You can always down some more caffeine to keep your mind and body alert as needed. And that also helps the mindless munching situation. See, problems solved!

What do you like most about the morning?

Cheers!

-A

It's good stuff

So I recently came across this blog - yes, I know, I'm way behind the times, given that it's already well into the 800s at this point - and in thinking about it, it's really a fabulous idea.

And of course, since I'm genuinely unoriginal, I'm going to write a little list of my own. Though since I'm so far behind, there may be repeats for the above list. My bad. I'm just too lazy to make sure there's no overlap.

And no, it won't be 1,000 things long because, let's be honest here, I just don't have the time to capture all that in one post. And I know y'all don't have the time to read that crap.

So, here's my rendition of 1,000 Awesome Things, that I like to call, The Good Stuff.

• Finding a $20 bill in the pocket of last year's winter coat. You haven't worn it in a year, so that money was long gone in your mind. So really, it's like finding $20 bucks on the street and knowing you don't have to find it's rightful owner. Score!
  
• Getting packages at the office. I always ship my online orders to the office, mainly because I'm never at the apartment when the leasing office is open to pick them up. Sometimes I forget that I'm expecting a package, so when it's delivered I get a nice little surprise - from myself - to brighten my day.
• Out-of-the-blue @ replies on Twitter. An unexpected Tweet that links to your profile, or better yet, gives props on a blog post is most satisfying. Gotta love a little ego boost.
• Random compliments. Speaking of ego boosts, isn't it great when you get compliments from strangers? I once had an older gentleman stop me in my building just to tell me that I looked beautiful in my outfit. Beautiful?! Compliments have a way of making the whole day a little brighter.
  
• Waking up and remembering your SO slept over. This is one of my favorite things about midweek sleepovers. You roll over in the middle of the night and see the one person that makes everything better and it puts a smile on your face...even when you know you've gotta get up in two hours and start the day. But at least you get to share a cup of coffee with him on the way out the door!
  
• When drunk texts fail to send. We've all had those nights. Things got a little crazier than expected and you remember thinking about that asshole that dumped you two weeks ago, so you texted him. Looking in your outbox you see that the network was on your side and the text never made it. Whew!
  
• Seeing your reflection and actually looking thinner. You know when you're working out a lot, or eating better and the pounds are dropping but you still don't see a difference? Yeah, that seems to happen a lot. But on the day when you wake up and look in the mirror and you can see that you've made progress - good stuff! Especially when that motivates you to try on your skinny jeans and they FIT! W00T, success!
• Receiving work-day text messages. This is something I'm notorious for. But you can't tell me that it's not nice to come back from a long meeting to find an awaiting text message from a good friend.
  
• Running into an ex who is far worse off than you. Ah, the satisfaction. Maybe he's still living at home, or his girlfriend just dumped him, or he got fat or bald, or he's in debt up to his eyeballs with no job. Whatever the case may be, clearly you are way better off and much happier. Puts a little smile on your face just thinking about it, doesn't it?
• Left over coffee from an office meeting. You know those days when clients or bigwigs visit the office and coffee is ordered by the gallon from Starbucks, there always seems to be some left over for everyone else. Who doesn't love free coffee?
• Milestones. No matter how small, milestones give you a reason to celebrate. Ten days on a diet, alright! Completing your first 5K, way to go! Six months in a solid relationship, awesome! It's the little victories that count.
• Meeting up with old friends and picking up right where you left off. Isn't it great when you finally get back together with the people who used to be your closest friends and it's as if you've never been apart? I love those friendships. It's like you didn't miss a beat.
• When the forecast was wrong and you wake up to the sunshine. Anyone who lives in the North gets what I'm saying here. It was supposed to rain, snow, sleet, fog, whatever, and instead you wake up because the sun is peeking through your vertical blinds just so. The irritation factor quickly disappears as you realize it's beautiful out!
• Learning that it did happen for a reason. Being a believer in the "everything happens for a reason" theory, it's highly rewarding when you get that 'aha' moment and realize that even the things that seemed terrible at the time, happened to make room for something better.
  
• Having something special to look forward to. It's the dead of winter, you're in a rut, but in 25 days you'll be heading out for a tropic vacation, lounging poolside, drink in hand, not a care in the world. Ah, how lovely that will be, right? It's a good motivator to keep moving, and I'm definitely one for countdowns. Lucky for me, I'm a planner, so I've always got something good on the horizon.
  

There you have it. Good stuff, right?

Now you tell me, what's missing from this list? What's happened to you recently that's made you stop and say, damn, that was great!?

Cheers!

-A

My Favorites 'Ms'

Earlier this week Ang posted a "few of my favorite things" and it seemed like a great idea! So, in telling her I wanted to play along, she used a randomizer to assign me the letter M.

Whew! That could have turned out bad...I don't know anything that starts with the letter X. I would have had to make it a backwards game - your favorites that end in this letter. My list would have been one word long. Oh!

So here are my 10 favorite 'M' things, in no particular order. Most of which, I'm sure will not surprise you.

1. Microbreweries: Lucky for me, Cleveland has some of the best. Between Willoughby, Great Lakes, and the Rocky River Brewing Company I'm in heaven. Can't beat a fresh Dortmunder on tap.


2. Manhattan: No surprise there, eh?

(Yay for one of my favorite pics shot from Brooklyn!)

3. Morning: As much as it completely sucks sometimes, I love getting up early and taking advantage of the day. And nothing is better than a relaxing cup of morning coffee, brisk morning run, or watching the sun rise over the lake.

(Let's just pretend this is what Lake Erie looks like, okay? Thanks.)

4. M&Ms: Peanut are my favorite, and for some reason I prefer the green ones, but I'll take just about any candy coated chocolate. Yummy!

(I ate all the green ones already...)

5. Massages: In college I was religious about getting the monthly massage - I've been slacking lately. Though I do use my charm to get them from the SO from time to time! And honestly, I like giving them just as much as I like getting them.



6. Mini Dachshunds: Again, this should not come as a shock. And though I truly believe Otis is the cutest pup on the face of the planet, this one takes a close second. Her face is just so adorable!

7. Mary Janes: Who doesn't like a comfortable shoe, right? The heal still helps elongate and accentuate the legs, while the rounded toe gives your toes some extra breathing room. I'm wearing my favorite black pair right now.



8. Margaritas: On the rocks. With salt. Poolside, if you don't mind.



9. Michigan State University: I love everything about this place. The ever expanding campus, the sports teams, the school pride, everything.

(Good ole Beaumont Tower)

10. Michael Symon: Again, this goes back to my obsession with The Food Network. He's not only a phenomenal chef, but his restaurants here in town are very cool, and he's not all that bad on the eyes, either. Besides, who doesn't love a man who can cook?


So there you have it, my top 10 favorite 'Ms.' I'm sure there are more where that came from, but you get the idea.

If you're interested in playing along, let me know in the comments and I'll send you your own letter.

Cheers!

-A

A few things about right now

Here's a glimpse into my world with a list of a few things that are going on right now -

~Work is kicking my butt. I'm seriously slammed. Which is why I'm playing up my ADD for this cop out post.

~I secretly (or not so secretly) love being busy to the point that I almost feel overwhelmed. Operative word being almost.

~For someone who is a lover of sports, I don't give a rats ass about the BCS National Championship game tonight. I don't care much for Oklahoma and nobody likes Florida, right? Besides, what about freaking Utah!?!

~Nor do I care about the Cavs/Celtics game tomorrow. Sorry Cleveland, there's just no joining in on this excitement.

~I'm in love with my new blog layout. Seriously. Sometimes I come back just to admire it. Yep, I'm that big of a dork.

~Lately, there have been days where I don't even go outside - get in my attached garage in the morning, park in the attached garage at work, leave work and park in the attached garage at home, workout in my apartment...I'm not so fond of the bitter wind and blowing snow, what can I say?

~It freaks me out, like really gives me the willies, that some of my friends are procreating. On purpose. I know, right? Aren't we a little too young to be having babies already?

~Today is Red Wine Thursday. Enough said.

So tell me dear readers, what's going on with you right now?

Cheers!

-A

Things that drive a woman crazy

Lately, there has been much inspiration for a post on things that drive women crazy. Between this post by one of my favorite 20-somethings discussing what makes her most crazy, recent discussions on pet peeves, and an article from Men's Health discussing the 5 things you should never say to a woman (some of which are highly accurate).

In my recent discussion, the annoyances we discussed were broader than those discussed by my friends above. Most of these cross both genders and can apply to relationships of any type - even if I don't know you. So, on to the pet peeves:

1. Shushing - first and foremost I can not stand the sound. But more than that, it's the meaning behind the sound. Not only are you telling me to shut up, you are doing so as if I was a child. Not okay!

2. This blends well with #1 - Treating me like a child. Don't tell me how I should behave in public, speak down to me as if I'm ignorant or even worse, correct me in public. If there's something I should know not to say about someone (i.e., no jokes about falling off a cliff if your friend's mom just died falling off a cliff) then give me the heads up, tactfully, beforehand. And I promise to do exactly the same when roles are reversed.

3. Telling me to calm down or relax - this is first on the list in the Men's Health article and it's spot on. If I have come to you to talk something through I'm either venting (which personally, I will tell you off the bat that I just need to bitch for a moment) or I'm looking for advice and ultimately a solution to whatever is bothering me. "Relax," is not a solution.

4. Slow and/or ignorant drivers - I am from Michigan. We drive fast there, that's no surprise. In the big cities of Texas, driving is extremely aggressive (the express ways of San Antonio are some of the craziest I've ever driven - and that includes my experiences in California and New York). No offense to all my favorite Ohioans out there, but damn y'all drive slow. And since when is it okay to drive in the left lane just because you feel like it - that's the fast lane?!

5. Dishonesty and disrespect - both are much more than pet peeves, these are relationship deal breakers. Personally, I can not be friends with someone who disrespects or lies to me. Period.

So tell me dear readers, what are some of your biggest pet peeves?

Cheers!

-A