Mindless Creations

Not much going on in my world, but I thought I would post something anyways.

Free and single once again I feel both empowerment and loneliness. It feels good to know I made the right choice. I knew deep down I would never marry the guy so why waste my time? But I find it hard to meet people. Especially living on my own and rarely going out. Oh well. Someday.

With fall well on it's way, pumpkin beer, pumpkin spice lattes, football, and Halloween, I'm more than pumped. Decorations are in full swing and I'm excited for all to come. I can't believe a year has gone by already.

It's been almost a week since I moved into my new place. Hasn't really set in yet, but I rather like it. Takes me a little bit longer to get to work but not bad. Love being able to walk everywhere. The move itself was horrible. I have a 2 bd. apartment with a loft....meaning it's on the top floor. It was 105 degrees that day. I'll let you picture that one for yourselves.

It was so hot the next couple days in the apartment I couldn't even sleep let alone get much unpacked. Thank goodness for the rain this last week! LOVED it!

And now on to Puerto Vallarta.....

I hate moving. I'm sure everyone does. Back and forth from college and summer breaks and every year since then. Buying a home may not be feasible at the moment, but moving is ridiculous. The cost of moving is even more ridiculous. Every time I move I make sure to get rid of old clothes and un-needed items. However, I'm pretty sure I accumulate even more things over time to replace those I get rid of. It's a never ending vicious cycle. I took 3 garbage bags filled with clothes to Goodwill. Got rid of old jewelry....and I couldn't believe how much random lotions and shower gels I found!

I'm packed up for the most part besides some items in my bedroom/bathroom. Unpacking is not fun either. I'm moving into a top floor apartment with a loft. Three flights of stairs to go up. This should be a work out.

Last night I was sitting on top of my bed with my laptop uploading pictures. Somehow I went to move back a little and ending up falling backwards off of my bed. My bed is pretty high up mind you. Luckily a mass of pillows on the ground softened my blow a little bit. However, moments later as I'm back laying on my bed I touch my shirt to only notice that it is wet. What the heck? It was dark in my room and my shirt was black. I walk to my bathroom to discover blood gushing from my side. I later noticed a nice chunk of skin under my fingernail. It won't stop bleeding after many band aids. MEDIC!!

Pre-qualification for mortgage....check

Realitor....check

Home listings....check

The face I made when looking at the condition this last townhome was in....PRICELESS


That pretty much sums it up. Either the place is too small, too far from work, or is in definite need of fixing. House hunting sucks.

On the up and up, I'm getting my hair cut shot this weekend, going to Edgefield, HOPEFULLY seeing Batman, and going to see 'A Chorus Line.' It's going to be a busy weekend. I'm also making yummy strawberry cupcakes!

I'm pretty sure I've had this LJ for way too long. I remember writing in it constantly and now I just pitter patter and write when something comes to mind; not really caring if anyone reads it or not.

This last weekend was the Brew Fest at Waterfront Park. I was stoked to go as I didn't get to go last year living in Seattle and all. Let's just say.... not drinking water all day + not enough food + too much beer = vomit. I honestly can say I was way too drunk, which probably hasn't happened since leaving college. I'm just praying I didn't make a total ass of myself to those that were around me.

I'm also feeling a bit stressed out lately. I'm moving in approx. 2 weeks to Hillsboro, I have to pay double the rent in August (moving into new place + current rent), going to Puerto Vallarta in 3 weeks, trying to help plan our company picnic that's in a month among other assorted random things. I wish there was a time-out button available in life.

Right now....I'd REALLY like to be sitting at some coffee shop outside along NW 23rd and just watching people go by listening to music on my mp3 player. Relaxing. Breathing. Maybe reading a book. Instead I feel like I'm in the movie Office Space trying to make it look like I'm doing work.

What a whirlwind past couple of weeks this has been!

TEXAS. WOW. Good conference. Bad everything else.

#1. Trip/Flight there. Sooooo horrible. Flight from Portland to Houston, got diverted to Austin due to storms which shut down the Houston Airport. Waited on plane in Austin for 3.5 hours. From there, flew to Houston finally. Once in Houston, flight to San Antonio got delayed, then canceled. Airport sent our bags there without us. Work makes me and another lady drive the 3.5 hour drive from Houston to San Antonio. Mind you it was now midnight at this point. Didn't arrive in San Antonio until 5:30am Monday (Left early Sunday morning) and had to be up 2 hours later to work the conference.

Later that night.....

Company went out to a "gourmet Italian dinner" and it was awful. Never got served bread or water. Waited well over an hour for food. Food wasn't cooked. 2 hours later total no one was happy.

#2. Trip home. Made it from San Antonio to Houston without a hitch. Woo hoo! Houston to PDX flight was delayed and had to sit around for nearly 4 hours. Got to PDX and they broke my suitcase. Stuff was missing. They didn't care. Wouldn't let me file a claim. Pissed off. Got home around 3am.


SPARKLE GOT MARRIED!! What a great wedding!! It was awesome to see everyone again and enjoy the evening.


House hunting has been a nightmare. I haven't found a single place within my price range that I can see myself living in for a few years. Ugh. Had to sign a new year long lease with another apartment complex so I'm ensured to have somewhere to live next month. I can't wait for my trip to Puerto Vallarta.

I'm leaving for Texas on Sunday to participate in the National Education Computing Conference in San Antonio. I'll be there for 4 days along with 15 other colleagues. Yee-Haw! It's gonna be HOT!

Lots of new and exciting things going on!

*Sparkle is getting married in a little over a week! Exciting!
*My mom and I are going to Puerto Vallarta in August!
*Hopefully will get pre-approval for a home loan in the next few days and can start looking for one! Also exciting! But mortgage = not as exciting.
*Getting my hair and nails done tomorrow. Always fun.

It's going to be a busy next couple of weeks but it's going to be good!

So after 6 years of suffering through harsh abdominal pain, fatigue, weight gain, then weight loss, then gain again, plus numerous other annoying symptoms....I think we may have FINALLY figured out what is wrong with me. Well....we will know if this insane diet works out. Here it is:

CANDIDA DIET:

For those that don't know, Candida is a yeast overgrowth in your body mainly in the intestines. It prevents you from being able to fully break down the food you digest and therefore resulting in numerous symptoms.

The diet consists of many natural supplement pills. Don't ask me to name them, I couldn't pronounce them if I tried.


Here's What I CANNOT eat:

Fruits
Dairy
Alcohol
Caffeine
Starches
Carbs
Soy
Peanuts
Beans
Sugars
The list goes on.....
So AKA I can't eat just about anything I'm used to.

Here's What I CAN eat:

Red Meat
Poultry
Vegetables
Water
Eggs
Unsweetened, Decaffeinated Tea

Yep. That's about it. Good times let me tell ya.


It hasn't even been a full day and I'm dying from lack of coffee and my normal fruit and/or cereal breakfast. I have to remain on the diet/supplements for a minimum 2 weeks to test to see if it works. If it does. Bad news. All the foods I hold dear and near to my heart will have to vanish and keep very limited. Bye bye Taco Bell. :(

For all you OSU alumni; especially those that have not been to Corvallis as of recent, I do indeed have an update.

I spent a day in Corvallis (on my way to Newport) and was utterly surprised at all of the recent upgrades and new buildings! Downtown area is SLOWLY starting to look like the Pearl District. I even saw a commercial in my Corvallis hotel that, that is the theme they were going for. Lots of neat wine bars, new restaurants and shops, so cute! On 9th they also managed to put in a Michaels, TJ Max, Famous Footware, amongst other small shops. They put in an Applebee's next to the main Theater. Also, Monroe is hoppin! The new McMenamins in there is nice! Looks like Corvallis is on the up and up! I was greatly disappointed that Local Boyz was closed for the weekend. So, so sad. So I ate dinner at El Sol instead and saw Iron Man. Surprisingly it was a pretty good movie!

Newport consisted of the Rouge Brewery and walking along the historic strip to see the sea lions. Also made way to Lincoln City and the Chinook Winds Casino. I will admit it was my very first time at a casino. I know. It was pretty fun though. I put in a dollar in one of the slot machines and won $17! Haha. Only weird part was you couldn't have alcohol on the main floor. However, there was people going around giving you free soda, juice, or coffee. All in all pretty fun.

Well ok, it's mid May, I'm a bit behind.

My birthday was great! Friday the 9th we celebrated Maria's b-day, mine, and her friend Katie's and had about 25 people over at our apartment. It was fun!! Needless to say the night didn't end so well due to some boy drama....but I'm not going to delve into that one. Saturday I had VIP at Aura nightclub and had half of the upstairs lounge all to myself....well with all my friends of course! I saw some friends that recently moved back to Portland that I haven't seen since High School. All around good night. THANKS FOR THE B-DAY CARD SPARKLE!! Mother's Day I took my mom out to Tad's Chicken and Dumplings over on the Sandy River. The original plan was to hike Multnomah Falls but it had been raining off and on all day, so that was a no-go. My brother never showed up. He decided Friday it was more important to go camping with his friends for the weekend then to spend my family b-day dinner with me and see my mom on Mother's Day. I don't get that kid.

I'm very excited this week it's going to be in the 90's in Portland! Time to lay out by the pool and soak in the rays. It will be a good relaxation time from the hustle and bustle of this last weekend.

As the summer approaches, I've been looking around for where I'm going to live next. The current lease isn't up until the end of August but have been going back and forth on whether to buy something or not. I would LOVE to buy something with the market the way it is now, but even getting a good deal on a condo or townhome comes with a butt-load of property taxes and HOA fees attached....especially to live anywhere near my work. Sigh. Most likely renting for another year. I do have my name on a waiting list to rent an awesome condo literally 5 min. from my work! They are called the 'Lofts at the Round' check it out at www.beavertonround.com upscale and stylish - everything I need! Hooray, I hope it works out.

Ok I'm done rambling for now....to be continued

I realize I don't keep this thing updated anymore. Just not a lot of time these days I guess. Not too much has been happening though.

Enjoying the new(er) job and imagine I will be here for at least a few years as there is lots of opportunity for growth and the people I work with are great! I still have an itch to move to California....San Diego most likely. I need sun. I want palm trees. I know it's expensive but I think if I can gain enough experience here with my current job it may lead to another exciting opportunity elsewhere. Who knows. Just a thought for now.

I'm still single. Not that it's a bad thing, but it's been over a year and a half now....I'm starting to get lonely. It feels both weird and great at the same time to see my friends with their long-term boyfriends, getting engaged, or are married. I think the only time I get sad about it is when I'm the "third wheel" on group outings or I'm alone on the weekends. Oh well. Someday.

I looking at buying a townhome or condo soon. With our lease up in July I'm seriously considering it. However, with me not really being able to put any money down on a place it would most likely be hard to pay the mortgage all by myself unless I got a really good deal. I may be renting for another year before that happens but I've seen some really great places for sale in the Beaverton/Hillsboro/Tanasborne area.

Lots going on, just nothing to overly exciting as of yet. I'm just anxious to see everyone at Sparkle's wedding, ready for some sunshine, and maybe some mini vacations. Not anxious about my dad moving to SC in July :/ No more season Beaver's tickets. Sad day.

I stayed up too late last night watching Ghost Hunters on TV. Go figure.
I tried to get to the point where I would be too tired to think and just fall asleep. This is what Valentine's day does to me. I've never actually had a "valentine" except for once in 8th grade. I think this hallmark holiday is lame and somehow a waste of money but it also makes me hate the fact that I'm always alone.

I see all my friends with their significant others going out for a special night, and I'm happy for them. I see myself sitting at home with my cat. What else is new. I'm not trying to really complain but I hate how some lame holiday can make me feel worse about myself and just want to crawl under a rock all day.

On a lighter note I got a new job and I'm really excited about it. My job here get's worse every day and it's just one thing after another. However, I somehow got realed into training whoever gets my position in the evenings. I must be outta my damn mind. I do realize how much is involved with this job - but a 13-15 hour day? Ugh. No thanks.

On Monday's I'm typically in the office alone all day - so no suprise this being the day that all the crazies come in.

So far I had one (normal looking) guy come in, take one of our program guides....pretty sure he went to the bathroom....and brought it back. Ew. Must dispose.

We also got a new server installed in our center several weeks ago and should be getting new computers for our students. Mr. installation guy keeps talking to himself. It's a bit odd.

I wonder what else the next 6 hours will bring.....you never know working downtown! Crazy eye homeless lady may come in with her crazy camera phone and start taking random pictures again! Woo!

On a lighter, less crazy note I emailed my boss today....DUN DUN DUN! I had to let her know that in all honesty, with what I'm being paid and my current work schedule - I am unable to get a 2nd job, and simply cannot afford my bills any longer. I think it's plain rediculous that I still have to rely on my parents to help me out at times and feel awful asking for money. However, bless their hearts in most situations they are happy to take over a medical bill and not ask for money in return. Paying $240 a month for parking doesn't help much either. I think it's only fair that I give my boss warning right? I told her with my current situation, it was in my best interest to perhaps be looking for other full-time positions.

This company has A LOT of turnover and I know 90% of the time it's because they don't pay their employees enough. And this is what I don't understand. We have centers all over the world. We are owned by the Washington Post Company and make over a BILLION dollars in revenue each year. High turnover rates are prevelant in ALL offices. You would think that in seeing this over many years they would finaly do something about it. Nope. My boss whom is the Oregon Area Director (a very high position in the company) is only 26 years old. That would be like having one of my friends as a boss. Why you may ask? Not too hard to figure out that because of the high turnover you can get promoted quickly here. Heck, I was promoted 3 times within 6 months. Awesome, yes. Did I work my butt off, yes. It has paid off in the long run because I now have management experience - but really folks. For the amount of hours I put in and what I have to do on a daily basis I don't see any of the benefits other than having paid vacation.

I know I'm a hard worker and I hope others see it as well. I know that what I'm doing now will pay off and set me up for another, better job. I've actually been interviewing with another company and have made it through the 2nd round. Job litteraly pays 10k + more a year than what I'm making now for essentially having less responsibilities (it's a non-management position) in what I think to believe is a GREAT work environment. The people are bright, love what they do, and are all very friendly. I would LOVE to get this job position and just hope that it all works out. Only drawback is I wouldn't be able to use any of my vacation days for 5 months, but not a huge deal. Please pray or cross your fingers for me!

A little update on me.....

I have 2 job interviews this week....yes, after 1+ years at Kaplan I am FINALY looking for a new job. Bottom line, it just doesn't pay enough.

Bought my mom's old car. The turquoise beast is done for. Well not yet, I still haven't sold it. But I do get the joy of driving around a newer Toyota Celica.

Still single. Been single for 1 1/2 years now. Have my eye on someone perhaps, but we'll see what happens. I'm starting to get lonely.

Going on a vacation in a few months. Originally set to go to Barbados, but stupid time share exchange pretty much hates me and doesn't want my mom and I to go. We may have to settle on Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. Either way it's warm and sunny! I'm due for a major vacation. I'd love to do a weekend trip in Seattle again (Sparkle, I may be headed your way!) and a Vegas trip. STILL have yet to go to Vegas. My cousin/roomate is going in March - I don't think I can afford to go at this point, but would love to do a late summer trip of sorts perhaps.

Hey everyone,

My sim card on my phone ate all my phone numbers when I transfered to a new phone. LAME!!

It would be much appreciated if you could pass along your phone number my way! If you don't feel comfortable leaving it on here, send me a myspace message, facebook, email, or text message. Thanks! Sorry for the troubles!

It's been an irritating last couple of weeks. Dealing with a jerk bag guy....learning things I didn't ever want to know. Job has not been what I was expecting....actually making less money now due to the tax differences between OR and WA, even though I got "a raise." Looking for a second job and/or a new job. Medical bills are piling up. Fatigue is what I feel everyday.

I almost want to say things were going better when I lived in WA. Even though the drive to OR every now and again wasn't that great - at least I didn't have quite as many problems. I'm sure things will get better eventually, but I'm not a patient person. I like change NOW. I can't even focus at work anymore - it's gotten that bad.

So by taking this test....this is what jobs "would fit me best" hmmm....

1.
Special Effects Technician

2.
Desktop Publisher

3.
Actor

4.
Fashion Designer

5.
Animator

6.
Cartoonist / Comic Illustrator

7.
Director of Photography

8.
Director

9.
Casting Director

10.
Comedian

11.
Artist

12.
Graphic Designer

13.
Musician

14.
Medical Illustrator

15.
Composer

16.
Craftsperson

17.
Potter

18.
Computer Animator

19.
Magician

20.
Dancer

21.
Producer

22.
Massage Therapist

23.
Hairstylist

24.
Funeral Director

25.
Foreign Language Instructor

26.
ESL Teacher

27.
Sign Maker

28.
Hospital Service Worker

29.
Economic Development Officer

30.
Acupuncturist

31.
Nurse Practitioner

32.
Esthetician

33.
Naturopath

34.
Public Health Nurse

35.
Coach

36.
Chiropractor

37.
Nurse

38.
Athletic Trainer

39.
Professor

40.
Editor

Yes, I am living back in Portland now off Barnes Road.

Moving was crazy. I just finished unpacking today after work and still need to hook some stuff up and hang pictures.

Got a nail in my foot. That was not fun.

Work is good though!

My "last weekend in Seattle" definitely didn't go as planned.

My friend Nate was coming up from Portland. He had never been in the Space Needle so I made it a plan for us to go. I also went slightly out of my way to purchase some fairly expensive "booze cruise" tickets- a thing one of the local radio stations was putting on so you could see this weekend's blue angel fighter jets and fireworks, while drinking and dancing the night away. Sounds awesome right?

Nate and I made it down to Ballard (district in Seattle) to have lunch at this place called the Matador. Sooooo yummy. Will have to go back someday. Half way through lunch Nate excuses himself to the restroom. Comes back....he does not look so good. Says he threw up. No bueno. I drove us back to my apartment. The instant he got out, he threw up again....and proceeded to throw up about every 30 minutes....for literally 9 hours. I made him drink lots of fluids to keep him hydrated but it usualy came back up. He was having cold sweats and was constantly taking showers to warm him up.

Needless to say we didn't go in the Space Needle. Didn't go on the expensive cruise (tickets non-refundable) and I didn't get but one box packed. Slept in my guest bedroom on the pull out couch only to be woken up about every hour from Nate getting up to go to the bathroom and/or get water.

I know I can't really be mad at him for getting sick, but was upset none the less. My last weekend here was supposed to be fun!


IN OTHER NEWS:

The girl that was supposed to take my place upon my leaving the Seattle office up and quit after one day. Naive girl - older than myself; from a small town outside of Pittsurgh. Drove all the way up to Seattle to live and work here - "Seattle's too expensive" she claims. She's now on her way back to Pittsburgh. Crazyness. Are people that naive that they don't know west coast cities cost more? Did she not do her research before driving ALL that way? Seriously people. I'm now having to train my new boss to do my job as well as hers. I guess now she knows what I had to go through for 6 months.


I feel like there's too much to do and not enough time. Tomorrow is my last day of work in the Seattle office and I literally have a day to pack and move out come Thursday. Yikes!