Phew I've Been M.I.A.

Noteworthy incidents and discoveries since Tuesday:

- Mischief only comes to you if you yell out "Lola," our other cat. This could be a problem.
- Five minutes ago, I nearly got locked into my sister's room cause the door is ghetto and broken.
- Thanksgiving dinner at my parent's house continues to be a wild and crazy affair, surprisingly minus the effects of alcohol. Clearly we're all on a natural high.
- And yesterday my dad got a punctured tire from trying to park and hitting a sharp part of the curb in front of MUDD coffee. I was thankful we had guests cause otherwise he would have somehow found a blame me. Instead, he was calm.
- Off to the wedding of my best friend which seems like a casual affair since she seems so relaxed. The prospect of eating more scares me.

Almost Wednesday!!

I woke up this morning and despite the Verizon fiasco of last night.. not to mention crappy weather.. I was in a good mood. Walked out of my apartment and some good music came on. Had one of those moments where I felt that even though everything is sort of going wrong, everything is right. Perhaps due to my recent excitement over my photography. Which I might add, got a great reception at my class today.

in any case. Someone beat me to the punch. Freakin awesome.

http://pissonverizon.blogspot.com

Taken in Union Square, Nov 24, 2008

Happy Tuesday

These are some of my favorites. They were taken in about 30 minutes during my lunch break yesterday. The reason I haven't been blogging as much is cause I've been photographing. For the rest- go here. And to answer your questions ahead of time. PhotoShop was used but only to subtly adjust the color and contrast. Also, I have heard that the lenses for DSLR's are slightly soft so I sharpened them slightly.

VERIZON SUCKS!!!!!!

Everyone it's time to cancel your Verizon account and get that iPhone you've been dreaming about.

As a savvy financial woman, I diligently check my online checking account. This evening, I was appalled to find a mysterious $369.19 charge. I say mysterious because I canceled my account a month ago and was assured that my plan expired and there should be no new charges. So, attempting to control my emotions (it's not every day money is directly stolen out of checking account), I called Verizon Wireless. And this is what I discovered.

The charge was erroneously added to my account because someone didn't enter in the system that I returned my equipment. That someone also somehow renewed my account causing the $150 + contract termination fee. The customer service rep assured me that I'd get my money back. IN 1-2 BILLING CYCLES. At which point I yelled at her and demanded to be put on the phone with a supervisor.

Finally composed, I attempted to explain to him that simply returning MY money was not good enough. Money that is MINE. And that at no point did anyone tell me to cancel my automatic billing. Gee. One would think it would be canceled with my ACCOUNT! So he's going to put some special request in that I get it in 3-5 days and I told him he will be receiving a phone call if not.

I love how I'm not longer a Verizon costumer. I feel fully confident and happy with my decision to switch to the iPhone. Contrary to popular belief, I get great service, fewer dropped calls, etc. So as payback to Verizon, please forward this story around. And um. Click on my ads. And buy crap on CafePress. Stick it to the man. I can use $369.19 right about now.

That's One Way to Start Off a Morning

Last night I tried on this dress I'm wearing at a wedding the Saturday after Thanksgiving and realized it needed some serious dry cleaning. To be way too frank before 10am, it had guy drool. At the last wedding I was at, I happened to have had a little errr PG13 fun and I'm guessing it started while I was still in my dress.

Anyway, this morning I took it to the dry cleaners and had to uncomfortably watch as he carefully examined the dress, taping "stain" on various parts and looking on the inside of the dress where he thankfully didn't find anything. I repeated in mock horror his $17.50 price tag to which I got a special discount of $16. Discount, I'm guessing, for causing me so much embarrassment so early in the morning.

Soooo.. I realized it's been a year since my first post. Okay, a year as of yesterday and I just noticed that. At the suggestion of a friend, I will be posting a lengthier now and then this evening to mark that occassion. It's just amazing as to what can happen in a year.

Happy Almost Friday

Too Lazy/ Sick to Post Something Original

Happy Monday

I spent most of yesterday walking around in the freezing cold. Partially working on my photo assignment and partially walking across town (back and forth). Brrr. Probably not the best idea since I feel like crap and have had a cold since Thursday. Once I finally got home, I made myself a healthy dinner. And proceeded to watch 4 back to back episodes of "House" while downloading and editing my photos. I never watched the show on the network but have lately been sucked in my the reruns. By hour three, my brain literally hurt. Either sympathy pains from all the brain ailments, or from staring at a TV and computer screen.

Anyway, I feel so crappy, that I'm (gasp) probably going to skip spinning tonight..

Hey, You Never Know

Last night started off as a bummer. Was supposed to meet up with some friends (post drinks with another) but a miss communication with one and someones friend throwing up with another led to me hanging out at my bar alone. Again. And as usual, met some cute, intelligent guys who kept me entertained. Some cool people. But fortunately managed to end the night at a reasonable hour, in my bed, alone.

So tonight I was looking forward to babysitting, reading and relaxing. But life had other, much more exciting plans for me. My clients called to tell me one kid wasn't feeling well and that they would possibly have to cancel their plans. But their plans involved tickets to Speed-The-Plow which is not something you casually cancel. Since they were in the city, they picked me up and brought me back to Brooklyn. After much debating and attempts to educate their child on the gravity of her decision to interfere with her parent's plans, they decided that I could go with the father if I wanted. There was some talk about having their downstairs tenant go but I'm guessing maybe it would have been too awkward, like a man date. Always up for adventure, and realizing I haven't been to Broadway since Rent, I happily obliged.

Despite how weird the situation could have been, it was actually totally cool. We talked about finance, jobs, life, etc. on the way over. And the plan was only an hour long. No having to deal with an awkward intermission. The parent's are super duper cool and despite people thinking it's weird that I'm babysitting at 27, it has actually been a great experience. It rarely interferes with my plans (minus taking my Saturday spin class), the kids are intelligent and adorable. And it's nice to be reminded that there's something beyond Manhattan, work, the gym and going out. That in fact, all of these activities, is- at least to me, some form of preparation for getting married and having babies.

So yeah, you never know where life is going to take you. But roll with it. And Enjoy. Oy yeah, and the play was fast paced, spit fire dialogue, well acted, entertaining, thought provoking and interesting. I highly recommend it.

Another Favorite

My Favorite Shot

Took this a few weeks ago for my photo assignment. Was very thrilled when I received a positive reaction. Literally- "wow" from the teacher. Very nice to be appreciated for my art.. again. Instead um. Other stuff. Like how entertaining my life can be or how much trouble I seem to get myself into.

Monday Night Karaoke Continued

My Monday night karaoke plans got off to a rough start. After a lovely dinner with my friend (sorry spinning teacher- it was pasta!) I chilled at my apartment, killing time until 11. I thought I could hit up McSorley's, which I've actually never been to, for a drink and pre-game. I was supposed to go with a friend, but he bailed cause had to work at the last minute so I thought I could go by myself. And my favorite Solas bartender also works there. But to my chagrin, they only had beer. Am I the only person who didn't realize that? And despite it being a Monday night at 11pm, it was super crowded. I guess some people actually get off for Veteran's Day.

So I had my two beers, played with my iPhone pretending to look like I was waiting for someone. Then went home and downloaded various other iPhone applications in anticipation of being bored at the next bar. Around 12:30, I arrived at Solas. It was also fairly crowded on a Monday night. After a few drinks, I managed to do a fantastic rendition of Lauryn Hills "Can't Take My Eyes Off You." Not the easiest song to sing but I got into it. Didn't appreciate the guys behind me trying to grind up on me while I was singing. But I guess they did have a few words of encouragement and were quite enamored.

After my song, I fell into a conversation with a tall, somewhat handsome guy. Not sure how we started talking and god knows why we were talking about the things we were. In any case, he works for the state department, and long story short- tried to convince me that the Jews controlled all the money in the US. That they are mostly to blame for the financial crisis. That they are disproportionally represented in the Senate. I reminded him that as a Jewthuran, he needed to look at things from all perspectives. He said he tells his Jewish friends the same things and they somewhat agree with him. I tried to convince him that there isn't a secret network of Jews. Maybe there is.. But that rather, Jews have historically lived in the New York area and perhaps went into finance by proximity. Industry close to home.

Then we got into the Middle East and Israel. And basically agreed how insanely hard foreign politics were. And that it's hard to find a neutral ground when supporting Israel. And why we have ties to them, perhaps related to money. You get the point. It was heavy and I was fairly convinced that this guy was anti-Semitic, working for our government. Kind of scary.

To end on a brighter note, my two favorite Solas bartenders sang the last song and did a fantastic job. They sang Elton John's "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me" which ironically, I had on my list but didn't get around to requesting. Also managed to miss my "Hit Me Baby One More Time" cause I was busy talking defending Jews. Dang. But over all. Freakin Awesome! Got home at 4am!

Monday Night Karaoke

After a lovely and relaxing Sunday/Monday afternoon spent in Schmersey with my mom and a surprisingly affectionate Mischief and Lola, I'm actually going to Karaoke at Solas. This should be interesting. Pre-gaming at McSorley's. Hmm. Will let you know about my latest adventure.

Maybe.

Another Fun & Crazy Adventure

Okay, so there's hope. Apparently there are single, cute, intelligent, interesting and funny guys out there. They just - um - don't live in New York. Yet.

Subway Fun

Went to Park Slope to babysit the most adorable, cool, inspiring family ever. Every time I go there, I'm inspired to clean up my apartment, become rich, eat healthier, find a husband and make beautiful, intelligent, sweet babies.

Anyway, I usually take a car home but ended up getting out early so told them the subway was okay. Around Rector street, there was some issue with a unauthorized person on the tracks. Wow. How much do you not want to hear that? Fortunately, I had a book, my iPhone, and time to kill so it was no biggy. Until they turned off the air, lights, etc. Still wasn't a big deal but definitely started making me nervous. I actually rarely take the subway. My favorite line was this old lady with a heavy Queens accent saying "My dawter offered to give me a ride home, but I said, 'no,' I'll take the subway home." In any case, the lights came back on just as everyone was starting to freak out.

In other news, on my way out the door, I somehow managed to bring one canvas tote, but forget my purse. It wasn't until I had gotten to the checkout at the grocery store, with my bottled water and carefully selected chocolate chip cookies, that I realized I was an idiot with no wallet. I ran back to my apartment. Someone let me in and I waited for my roommate to get out the shower- cold sweat and all, freaking out about not getting to Park Slope in time. And this is why I can't live alone.

My sister wrote an article in her college paper about binge drinking. The article was well written and articulate. But the fact that most stood out was that apparently it takes your brain a whole month to recover after a binge drinking incident. Hmmmm. That would explain a lot.

Because it's been a while since I've put up a picture

A Shocker

So here's a shocker. I'm home on a Friday night. I apologize for any of those looking to be entertained Saturday morning. But there will be none of that. Occasionally, I must give my liver and wallet a break. They thank me. Except I made the mistake of taking a luxurious nap around 8:30ish and now I'm fairly wired. Actually, I just want to dance. But I always want to dance.

Wow, I'm already boring myself with my lack of debauchery. Where's a booty call when you need one. Wait. No. Sooo kidding with that one. More like.. where's a cheesy, sappy, romantic comedy when you need one. All I have is Casablanca and that's a hard one to casually get into.

Until next time.

Oh Happy Day

I'll post more about what all this means to me but right now I'm dealing with a carb hangover. Sort of like a real hangover except brought on by too much pizza, chips and okay.. a little champagne. I think August Pollak states the general sentiment beautifully except I have a little less hatred in me. I especially like the idea that Obama's daughters are probably contimplating which puppy to get longer than McCain did in choosing Palin as a running mate.

http://www.someguywithawebsite.com/blogarchive/week_2008_11_02.html#002677

Politics

I'm being a tool and not completing my photo class assignment mainly cause I still haven't figured out how to work my flash. Anyway, I thought it was appropriate to touch on politics since I haven't done so in a while.

On Saturday, I was at a bar with a few friends- one of my very good friends who I've known is a Republican but I also know he's intelligent and have respected his view points. In fact, we rarely talk about politics cause we don't want to get into any serious arguments when it's unlikely either one of us will change our mind. Anyway, someone else I was with was curious as to who he was voting for. And his answer will forever stick in my mind and slightly terrify me. Went as follows (paraphrased)

"I'm voting for McCain and I think we should bomb the Middle East. Then bomb them again, and then again."

His angry, completely out of character response terrified me. My new friend and I argued that it was ridiculous, that you'd be killing innocent people, that all those in the Middle East aren't terrorists, that you'd be creating more animosity against the US than before, etc. But overall, the idea that people actually think this is a good idea is completely insane and a major part of the problem. Obviously hatred for Americans can run very deep and be impossible to change, but I'm sure that killing vast amounts of people would be no different than Sept. 11th and only breed more violence.

And to extend on that thought- because I just got started.. wouldn't perpetuating the war and killing all these people increase government spending? Hell.. I'm pretty sure a major war, more violence and destroying the entire Middle East would be considered Government Waste when it's not the entire Middle East causing the problem. And here's something even more contradictory to conservative Republican views. Um. If you're going to be PRO-LIFE, then how can you possibly be pro- war at the same time?? I'm sorry folks. But innocent American lives are no more valuable than innocent Iraqi lives, Afgan, etc.

Phew. I feel better now.

Hand Cuffs and Irish Men

Wow! I made it through the week! And clearly didn't try to avoid shenanigans. Thursday night, partied it up coworker style, dancing, free champagne and all. Managed to roll into work on Friday and get through a very hectic work day- followed by the third manicure of my entire life (liking the red), a short nap and then going out for Halloween.

The East Village was INSANE last night! Completely packed. I walked out with my ass hanging out (was wearing short shorts underneath). As a big breasted German Bar girl. Ahhh. Slutty. Convinced an off duty cab to take me to 83rd and 1st avenue. Hit up a house party. Then came back down to my spot.

At my spot, tried to convince other friends to join but they were mackin it. So ended up meeting Rene Magritte, cute Harvard chemistry professor (I kid you not). Then got slightly bored, walked away and met some fun Irish dudes. Irish dudes and Scottish bartender and I had a grand ole time. Long story short- Irish guy walked me home and around 6am, I found myself patiently waiting as he picked handcuffs off my wrists with my hair pin. Hmm.. just a typical night out.