Well, darlin', it's over.
I have completed my internship. It is crazy to think that just a little under 4 months ago I was moving in to my little apartment in Bethesda, going to church on that first sunday by myself - not even really remember what my roomates looked like and having to act like I did when I saw them at church (yikes), struggling with finding my groove in D.C. life and trying to make friends.
I feel like I accomplished many goals over my summer.
I feel like I bonded with my roomate, Kita. I feel like I made friends with people in the ward (DC2nd you are all FANTASTIC!). I broke out of my comfort shell, even if it didnt seem like it at times. I participated in two Iron Chef competitions. I explored the unknown parts of the city. I ignored places with hype - I had one day where I went and toured around the monuments. My days were filled with work and normal activities, things that people in my ward did, things that people that live in the district actually do. I enjoyed Pub Trivia. I nudged M more than a few times and asked him to do game nights. I drove to work near the end without much panic = I conqured Rockville/Wisconsin/495 :-)
On the internship front, I met amazing people. My co-workers are truly great people who I have come to love and admire. They taught me so much not only regarding the office I worked in in particular but things I could apply to the Career Development Center, Management Society and more. Im really grateful to them.
Im really not sure what else I can say. My time in Washington has come to an end. I have just finished my first week of senior year.
Its time to head back to this blog over here. I hope youll follow me, I am on to more adventures and wouldn't want you to miss them.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Its called KETCHUP!
Here it goes!
Iron Chef: Saffron was on Sunday (the 22nd) at David's place. To be addressed later in the post, I thought I was homeless in Virginia and had to make an emergency trip down to pack all of my things in my house so my roomate would not have to do it on her own. I left Saturday early and came back Sunday.. early. Right before church actually. I called Kita when I was about thirty minutes away to see if she would wait for me and drive to church - I had a feeling that post-church I would not feel up to driving home (and I was right). I had given up all hope on being able to cook for Iron Chef when I ran in to David after Munch N' Mingle. He pulled out a small glass vile and a jar of Saffron... sketch for sure but hey! I got myself some Saffron!! I had a recipe I had planned on doing, and Kita had the needed almonds. I went home and made Saffon Cantuccini found HERE. I melted some Dark Chocolate chips that J had and after plating drizzled the chocolate on top of the pile of cantuccini. It was fantastic! I won third place out of probably 15 entries. 5 votes for Cantuccini. 6 votes for Saffron Braided Bread with Honey and 7 votes for Meatball Tangine - it was CLOSE!
Next month is Fennel, hosted by Marie & Hugh. I just may be coming up to DC that weekend. I dont think these folks realize how much I love the idea of Iron Chef.
******
Homeless. Sort of.
Katie and I received calls from our Landlord and his wife on thursday (the 19th) that some business deal they had was bringing a family to BV and they would need us out of the place by August 31st. That is thirteen days. Thir-Teen. All while I am out of town. Needless to say the search for housing was stressful. I was not sure what they really expected me to do with so little time before school starting and not having any leads and did I mention - most housing is full. I called. I e-mailed. I texted. I begged. I found one place that had an opening but would not be ready to move in to until Sept 11th. Not acceptable. I couldnt find anywhere to stay for those two weeks (slight correction: my Bishop offered his home, he is Fantastic but I did not want to do that to them, even if they offered - it would be just great to find a place to move in to and then stay at). I called one of the off-campus housing listings and got a woman who was in one of my classes last semester. Her husband is a professor at the school, and she has children about my age. Sweet lady. After chatting I asked if she remembered me, she did, and we became more friendly - then! (drumroll) she said... you should call my daughter, shes looking for a roomate. Her daughter happens to live with my old RS president (who is getting murried, yup - murried in Oct.) I call and it just happens to be perfect. Great price. Great location. Keeps me in my old ward. All around - PERFECT.
I move in Saturday. :-)
*****
I really want to make this Lemon-Blueberry pull apart bread. Think Monkey Bread with a sweet but tangy kick :)
*****
Cooking with Gina.
Im going to start a cooking blog. Not kidding. Look for it. Ive got a sweet title (and no, its not Cooking with Gina)
Iron Chef: Saffron was on Sunday (the 22nd) at David's place. To be addressed later in the post, I thought I was homeless in Virginia and had to make an emergency trip down to pack all of my things in my house so my roomate would not have to do it on her own. I left Saturday early and came back Sunday.. early. Right before church actually. I called Kita when I was about thirty minutes away to see if she would wait for me and drive to church - I had a feeling that post-church I would not feel up to driving home (and I was right). I had given up all hope on being able to cook for Iron Chef when I ran in to David after Munch N' Mingle. He pulled out a small glass vile and a jar of Saffron... sketch for sure but hey! I got myself some Saffron!! I had a recipe I had planned on doing, and Kita had the needed almonds. I went home and made Saffon Cantuccini found HERE. I melted some Dark Chocolate chips that J had and after plating drizzled the chocolate on top of the pile of cantuccini. It was fantastic! I won third place out of probably 15 entries. 5 votes for Cantuccini. 6 votes for Saffron Braided Bread with Honey and 7 votes for Meatball Tangine - it was CLOSE!
Next month is Fennel, hosted by Marie & Hugh. I just may be coming up to DC that weekend. I dont think these folks realize how much I love the idea of Iron Chef.
******
Homeless. Sort of.
Katie and I received calls from our Landlord and his wife on thursday (the 19th) that some business deal they had was bringing a family to BV and they would need us out of the place by August 31st. That is thirteen days. Thir-Teen. All while I am out of town. Needless to say the search for housing was stressful. I was not sure what they really expected me to do with so little time before school starting and not having any leads and did I mention - most housing is full. I called. I e-mailed. I texted. I begged. I found one place that had an opening but would not be ready to move in to until Sept 11th. Not acceptable. I couldnt find anywhere to stay for those two weeks (slight correction: my Bishop offered his home, he is Fantastic but I did not want to do that to them, even if they offered - it would be just great to find a place to move in to and then stay at). I called one of the off-campus housing listings and got a woman who was in one of my classes last semester. Her husband is a professor at the school, and she has children about my age. Sweet lady. After chatting I asked if she remembered me, she did, and we became more friendly - then! (drumroll) she said... you should call my daughter, shes looking for a roomate. Her daughter happens to live with my old RS president (who is getting murried, yup - murried in Oct.) I call and it just happens to be perfect. Great price. Great location. Keeps me in my old ward. All around - PERFECT.
I move in Saturday. :-)
*****
I really want to make this Lemon-Blueberry pull apart bread. Think Monkey Bread with a sweet but tangy kick :)
*****
Cooking with Gina.
Im going to start a cooking blog. Not kidding. Look for it. Ive got a sweet title (and no, its not Cooking with Gina)
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Updates... in a post to come :-)
*Third Place - Iron Chef Saffron
*Im Homeless. I may not be Homeless. Im officially, Not Homeless!! (<--thought process)
*I really want to make this Lemon-Blueberry pull apart bread. Think Monkey Bread with a sweet but tangy kick :)
*Starting a cooking blog...? Talk about Generation Y
*My Final Week in Washington (incl. New Interns)
*Im Homeless. I may not be Homeless. Im officially, Not Homeless!! (<--thought process)
*I really want to make this Lemon-Blueberry pull apart bread. Think Monkey Bread with a sweet but tangy kick :)
*Starting a cooking blog...? Talk about Generation Y
*My Final Week in Washington (incl. New Interns)
Monday, August 23, 2010
Music Monday
Kita wrote a post on Official and Unofficial State Songs talking about the current state songs and what they really should be. I thought I loved New York, I knew that I disliked it sometimes (especially the city) but the Unofficial aka what they think should be the 21st Century State Song of New York not only made me miss New York, It reminded me of my love for the City. The video was shot on September 7th, 2001 - Just 4 days before the attack on the WTC. You see the towers behind him in the video. At that point I even got emotional. I was close, too close for comfort, to that event. My mom was in the city on that day. I am told I said things and did things that I dont remember, a little PTSD I suppose when you think your mom could be apart of the thousands affected by the attack. I love that city, I love that state - This is the perfect video for Music Monday.
Found a lot of trouble out on Avenue B
But I tried to keep the overhead low
Farewell to the city and the love of my life
At least we left before we had to goAnd love won't play any games with you
Anymore if you want 'em to
So we better shake this old thing out the door
I'll always be thinkin' of you
I'll always love you though New York
I'll always love you though New York, New York, New York
For Music Monday, I give you;
Ryan Adams - New York, New York
Found a lot of trouble out on Avenue B
But I tried to keep the overhead low
Farewell to the city and the love of my life
At least we left before we had to goAnd love won't play any games with you
Anymore if you want 'em to
So we better shake this old thing out the door
I'll always be thinkin' of you
I'll always love you though New York
I'll always love you though New York, New York, New York
For Music Monday, I give you;
Ryan Adams - New York, New York
Monday, August 16, 2010
Music Monday
Pretty sure I have missed one or two of these due to being away from the office and my blog and on vacation.. and doing other fun things. I have been on a kick with a few different bands lately, where I could just listen to all of their songs, over and over. Train is one of them so for your entertainment....
Shes on Fire - Train
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Music Monday
Youtube is being lame and wont let me put the video in, but its fabulous and brings back middle school memories. Enjoy.
Music Monday
Music Monday
Monday, July 26, 2010
According to Facebook...
(fyi; I got off work early on Thursday and the office was closed Friday for Pioneer Day... Love working for The Church)
Gina D. Haywood
Update: Burned my foot on my straightener Saturday (ouch), Made my way through American History Museum and saw Julia Child's kitchen, Pioneer Day BBQ, Pulled Pork & Watermelon on Sunday... before power went out, played Perudo by candlelight, came home to a 90+ room... went to the Georgetown Inn with Becky and lived it up in the AC... Screen on the Green tonight & power coming back (crossing fingers).
This is how my weekend went down.
Saturday started fine. I went to the store to buy food for a Sunday dinner, washed my car, and made plans for the rest of the day. I went home, showered, plugged in my straightener... stepped on it (YOWZA!) and it was far from fun. I stepped inside it... if that helps you figure out why it hurts. I have this fun looking blister on the top of my foot. It was purple/gray yesterday but has now grown with... stuff ha. Pretty sure the thing is okay though (even though JH tried to freak me out and tell me I needed to go to the hospital).
I stuck my foot in the bathroom sink (water wasn't cold enough), stuck it in the kitchen sink (still not cold enough), filled a bowl with ice and water and sighed with relief. I tried to finish getting ready/text A to tell him "I'm a mess... Ive burned my foot... Ill... be late" all while hobbling around with one foot in a bowl of ice water. Oh fun. I finally got my junk together and got out of the house. Picked A up and we drove down in to Georgetown to park at my office (free parking in D.C. ... you bet I'll use it). We walked down to Foggy Bottom and metro'd down to the Museum of American History.
We saw pioneer exhibits, a model of a ship used to fight a battle on the Hudson (woot!... for the Hudson part... not the fact it was a battle ship), C3PO, Dumbo, Checked out some (sweet) vintage cars, and ready for it.... Julia Child's Kitchen! I was excited, and it made me pretty giddy to say the least. If he wasn't aware I was a cooking nerd....welp, he is now. We then took the train to our friends Pioneer Day BBQ. We ate our fill and decided to head over to Falls Church to pick up some weights (yup) and then head back to his place. Where I then chatted it up with his roommate who is a total twin for one of my favorite people ever, Elder Bowcut.
That was Saturday.
Sunday.
Started the pulled pork (which I am eating right now) before church. I normally do it with Dr. Pepper but did not have it this time. I also did not put the rub on until I was putting it in the crock pot but I love the flavor of it. I cut up an onion, put half in the bottom of the crock pot. Seasoned the pork with Salt, Pepper, Paprika, Chili Powder & stuck it in the crock pot. Topped it with the other half of the onion & about 2 cups of water... more Chili Powder & Red Pepper Flake (Spicy!). I let it cook while we were at church. We got home and about an hour later... power went out. We were still able to finish cooking & eat but it was dark & hot.
We decided at about 8p.m. to head over to the parkside boys apartment. We played Perudo, Smelled amazing spices (That's NASA for ya) and drank peach juice till the wee hours of the morn... or 10p.m. When we got home, Kita & my room was Insane! We're talking furnace hot. She had a free night at Georgetown Inn and they had a room. I LOVE HOTELS! The bed, was perfect. The AC was Freezing! The shower was amazing. It was wonderful. Our room also had a view of The Kennedy Center.
I went to work... Hung out after waiting for Kita to come to the office where we ate a dinner of left over pulled pork, changed & caught a cab for Screen on the Green. I think I would have loved the SG except... the smokers... the boozy french girls behind us who basically shoved me on to Kita & M's blanket... and the fickle boy who I really just wanted to hang out with. We made it to FB metro and while Kita & Mag turned around M & I bolted (literally) the other direction and laughed the whole way to the office.
I'm not sure they found it as funny as we did.
We made it home where it was dark, nay, pitch black, but cool enough to sleep. This morning I packed like a camping trip because Ill be at the office all day so I drove in (which I think I love) and now... its time to start my day.
I think that's enough of an update to hold you over.
Gina D. Haywood
Update: Burned my foot on my straightener Saturday (ouch), Made my way through American History Museum and saw Julia Child's kitchen, Pioneer Day BBQ, Pulled Pork & Watermelon on Sunday... before power went out, played Perudo by candlelight, came home to a 90+ room... went to the Georgetown Inn with Becky and lived it up in the AC... Screen on the Green tonight & power coming back (crossing fingers).
This is how my weekend went down.
Saturday started fine. I went to the store to buy food for a Sunday dinner, washed my car, and made plans for the rest of the day. I went home, showered, plugged in my straightener... stepped on it (YOWZA!) and it was far from fun. I stepped inside it... if that helps you figure out why it hurts. I have this fun looking blister on the top of my foot. It was purple/gray yesterday but has now grown with... stuff ha. Pretty sure the thing is okay though (even though JH tried to freak me out and tell me I needed to go to the hospital).
I stuck my foot in the bathroom sink (water wasn't cold enough), stuck it in the kitchen sink (still not cold enough), filled a bowl with ice and water and sighed with relief. I tried to finish getting ready/text A to tell him "I'm a mess... Ive burned my foot... Ill... be late" all while hobbling around with one foot in a bowl of ice water. Oh fun. I finally got my junk together and got out of the house. Picked A up and we drove down in to Georgetown to park at my office (free parking in D.C. ... you bet I'll use it). We walked down to Foggy Bottom and metro'd down to the Museum of American History.
We saw pioneer exhibits, a model of a ship used to fight a battle on the Hudson (woot!... for the Hudson part... not the fact it was a battle ship), C3PO, Dumbo, Checked out some (sweet) vintage cars, and ready for it.... Julia Child's Kitchen! I was excited, and it made me pretty giddy to say the least. If he wasn't aware I was a cooking nerd....welp, he is now. We then took the train to our friends Pioneer Day BBQ. We ate our fill and decided to head over to Falls Church to pick up some weights (yup) and then head back to his place. Where I then chatted it up with his roommate who is a total twin for one of my favorite people ever, Elder Bowcut.
That was Saturday.
Sunday.
Started the pulled pork (which I am eating right now) before church. I normally do it with Dr. Pepper but did not have it this time. I also did not put the rub on until I was putting it in the crock pot but I love the flavor of it. I cut up an onion, put half in the bottom of the crock pot. Seasoned the pork with Salt, Pepper, Paprika, Chili Powder & stuck it in the crock pot. Topped it with the other half of the onion & about 2 cups of water... more Chili Powder & Red Pepper Flake (Spicy!). I let it cook while we were at church. We got home and about an hour later... power went out. We were still able to finish cooking & eat but it was dark & hot.
We decided at about 8p.m. to head over to the parkside boys apartment. We played Perudo, Smelled amazing spices (That's NASA for ya) and drank peach juice till the wee hours of the morn... or 10p.m. When we got home, Kita & my room was Insane! We're talking furnace hot. She had a free night at Georgetown Inn and they had a room. I LOVE HOTELS! The bed, was perfect. The AC was Freezing! The shower was amazing. It was wonderful. Our room also had a view of The Kennedy Center.
I went to work... Hung out after waiting for Kita to come to the office where we ate a dinner of left over pulled pork, changed & caught a cab for Screen on the Green. I think I would have loved the SG except... the smokers... the boozy french girls behind us who basically shoved me on to Kita & M's blanket... and the fickle boy who I really just wanted to hang out with. We made it to FB metro and while Kita & Mag turned around M & I bolted (literally) the other direction and laughed the whole way to the office.
I'm not sure they found it as funny as we did.
We made it home where it was dark, nay, pitch black, but cool enough to sleep. This morning I packed like a camping trip because Ill be at the office all day so I drove in (which I think I love) and now... its time to start my day.
I think that's enough of an update to hold you over.
Music Monday
This weekend was crazy!!! Updates.... later. For now, here is a song that has been stuck in my head all weekend.
Fireflight - Unbreakable
"Sometimes its hard to just keep going, but faith is moving without knowing. Can I trust what I cant see to reach my destiny? I want to take control but I know better"
Monday, July 19, 2010
Music Monday - "Let's Party on the White House lawn"
Dislike: First lines about his gf and her bf being out of town
Love: The beat, the mention of D.C., The return of Enrique.
Baby, I like it.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Well, Gina....
"I'm Jealous. I wish I could be the one taking you on a date.... I mean, the member of the opposite sex who gets to spend time with you, one on one"
What?!
What?!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Thoughts for the Day
1) Leftovers are Amazing
I love when I have leftovers to bring in to work. Down at school I am often eating lunch at the cafeteria, or at the cafe mostly, so my leftovers go bad. Not here, folks! Cooking for one is a great thing when you work in DC! (I'm sure other places too, but I can only speak from experience) So far I have had leftover Baked Ziti (recipe to be posted soon), Love Pie (another recipe I will share), and today its Crockpot Chicken (for lack of a better name) and couscous. Combine the last bit with the lentils I bought at Trader Joe's yesterday and I am going to be a happy girl come lunch time.
2) Pioneer Day
I guess when you work for Mormons... its a bigger deal than it is if you are just LDS. We get June 23rd off of work. Yes. Seriously. The office is closed. What does that mean? That means I will be using that day to see all of the things that I have been wanting to do but DC has been too packed with tourists for me to actually do them. (That's a lame excuse and partial lie. Ive also slept in on almost every Saturday, but its also fairly crazy with tourists in the city on weekends)
3) Favorite Things
You know how some things just make you smile, inherently? A lot of mine are food. That's silly, but true. Strawberry Milk. Salt & Pepper UTZ Chips. Nutella. Goldfish. Then there are other things like: Running through sprinklers on a hot day, Finding little treasures like a hole in the wall bookstore & a place with great fresh bread, Using reusable shopping bags, Having roommates who cook just as much as I do, Babies (you knew that was coming), The hope that The Gospel brings to people, knowing my dad would drop everything and come to my aid at a moments notice, How my big brothers are like my own personal mafia warding off any who may attempt to do me harm and yes, even how they still call me Kid, Pillow talk with my roommate as we drift off to sleep, Listening to the Hispanic radio station in Maryland, Thinking about Beach Week and the 6 days I get to spend camping, tanning, touring and playing with my sister and my niece in our favorite destination (Rhode Island).... wow... there are many more to this list. But you get the point. I love finding reasons to smile, too many people look so grumpy on the Metro, Id rather smile.
4) My love of Cooking
The general smell of food cooking. I love it. I think it comes from growing up in a home where my mother was always cooking *until she started nursing school, at which point I took over*. My grandmas house always smelled like good food. Mostly it was chicken cutlets (with 4c, always and never anything else, bread crumbs), macaroni & cheese, corn and hot dogs - because that's all we kids would ever eat (and grandma makes the best chicken). My sisters house always smells like food too. This woman should have her own cooking magazine, because she is stellar. She taught me how to make my own pasta sauce (along with grandma) and that jarred sauce should only be used in dire situations. She taught me the beauty & art of cooking in general. How nothing needs to be measured, only tasted. How you can throw what you have in a pot and come out with what you think is the greatest meal you've ever made. It truly is an art form the way we Haywood women cook. The way all women cook, I think. I love the smell of truly homemade meals & watching people enjoy something I have created.
I love when I have leftovers to bring in to work. Down at school I am often eating lunch at the cafeteria, or at the cafe mostly, so my leftovers go bad. Not here, folks! Cooking for one is a great thing when you work in DC! (I'm sure other places too, but I can only speak from experience) So far I have had leftover Baked Ziti (recipe to be posted soon), Love Pie (another recipe I will share), and today its Crockpot Chicken (for lack of a better name) and couscous. Combine the last bit with the lentils I bought at Trader Joe's yesterday and I am going to be a happy girl come lunch time.
2) Pioneer Day
I guess when you work for Mormons... its a bigger deal than it is if you are just LDS. We get June 23rd off of work. Yes. Seriously. The office is closed. What does that mean? That means I will be using that day to see all of the things that I have been wanting to do but DC has been too packed with tourists for me to actually do them. (That's a lame excuse and partial lie. Ive also slept in on almost every Saturday, but its also fairly crazy with tourists in the city on weekends)
3) Favorite Things
You know how some things just make you smile, inherently? A lot of mine are food. That's silly, but true. Strawberry Milk. Salt & Pepper UTZ Chips. Nutella. Goldfish. Then there are other things like: Running through sprinklers on a hot day, Finding little treasures like a hole in the wall bookstore & a place with great fresh bread, Using reusable shopping bags, Having roommates who cook just as much as I do, Babies (you knew that was coming), The hope that The Gospel brings to people, knowing my dad would drop everything and come to my aid at a moments notice, How my big brothers are like my own personal mafia warding off any who may attempt to do me harm and yes, even how they still call me Kid, Pillow talk with my roommate as we drift off to sleep, Listening to the Hispanic radio station in Maryland, Thinking about Beach Week and the 6 days I get to spend camping, tanning, touring and playing with my sister and my niece in our favorite destination (Rhode Island).... wow... there are many more to this list. But you get the point. I love finding reasons to smile, too many people look so grumpy on the Metro, Id rather smile.
4) My love of Cooking
The general smell of food cooking. I love it. I think it comes from growing up in a home where my mother was always cooking *until she started nursing school, at which point I took over*. My grandmas house always smelled like good food. Mostly it was chicken cutlets (with 4c, always and never anything else, bread crumbs), macaroni & cheese, corn and hot dogs - because that's all we kids would ever eat (and grandma makes the best chicken). My sisters house always smells like food too. This woman should have her own cooking magazine, because she is stellar. She taught me how to make my own pasta sauce (along with grandma) and that jarred sauce should only be used in dire situations. She taught me the beauty & art of cooking in general. How nothing needs to be measured, only tasted. How you can throw what you have in a pot and come out with what you think is the greatest meal you've ever made. It truly is an art form the way we Haywood women cook. The way all women cook, I think. I love the smell of truly homemade meals & watching people enjoy something I have created.
If not for the kindness of strangers...
Red Lines: Delayed
Oh, Metro Delays. While riding to work today we were being held at each station for 5 minutes as we got closer to the city so I decided to walk to work from Farragut North (which should have been simple). We walk out of the Metro and there is a guy playing, easily, the most beautiful (yes, beautiful) version of "Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon. Different harmonies and melodies than the band uses and if I had any cash at all on me I would have given him some. It was great. Then... I got lost. I walked all over the city, back and forth, up and down... finally deciding to ask a GWU student for help. He pointed me in the right direction and then at one point... I turned the wrong way. I realized it quickly and as I am turning around I see him running towards me trying to put me on the right path again. How sweet. You don't find that often here but this kid was looking out for me. It felt nice. I made it to work, 1 hour late, but smiling because someone was nice enough to help me out.
Some other fun characters I have met on my travels:
1) The guy on the Metro Wednesday Afternoon. The train was packed. I had just gotten off another destination Grosvenor train because there was no AC and boarded another. A seat opened up after 2 stops next to a friendly looking guy. Really, he looked like Noer :). After a minute I felt some water hit me, not sure where it was coming from since I was on a train, I begin to look around. The guy next to me gives me a nod and points up to the ceiling, where the water is slowly dripping from, and then gestures towards the laminated folder keeping his leg dry. We both chuckled over how silly it was to have rain falling on you while on a train and before I got off, we exchanged smiles. We had a great conversation without any words at all.
2) The guy at the bar at Pub Trivia. You may have been more interested in the ball game and that's why you moved closer to our group, Ill pretend its because you wanted to know how on earth we were having so much fun without any beer on the table. Come next week. I'll bring you a Book of Mormon.
Oh, Metro Delays. While riding to work today we were being held at each station for 5 minutes as we got closer to the city so I decided to walk to work from Farragut North (which should have been simple). We walk out of the Metro and there is a guy playing, easily, the most beautiful (yes, beautiful) version of "Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon. Different harmonies and melodies than the band uses and if I had any cash at all on me I would have given him some. It was great. Then... I got lost. I walked all over the city, back and forth, up and down... finally deciding to ask a GWU student for help. He pointed me in the right direction and then at one point... I turned the wrong way. I realized it quickly and as I am turning around I see him running towards me trying to put me on the right path again. How sweet. You don't find that often here but this kid was looking out for me. It felt nice. I made it to work, 1 hour late, but smiling because someone was nice enough to help me out.
Some other fun characters I have met on my travels:
1) The guy on the Metro Wednesday Afternoon. The train was packed. I had just gotten off another destination Grosvenor train because there was no AC and boarded another. A seat opened up after 2 stops next to a friendly looking guy. Really, he looked like Noer :). After a minute I felt some water hit me, not sure where it was coming from since I was on a train, I begin to look around. The guy next to me gives me a nod and points up to the ceiling, where the water is slowly dripping from, and then gestures towards the laminated folder keeping his leg dry. We both chuckled over how silly it was to have rain falling on you while on a train and before I got off, we exchanged smiles. We had a great conversation without any words at all.
2) The guy at the bar at Pub Trivia. You may have been more interested in the ball game and that's why you moved closer to our group, Ill pretend its because you wanted to know how on earth we were having so much fun without any beer on the table. Come next week. I'll bring you a Book of Mormon.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Music Monday
It was between THIS video (Thank you Mal G. for posting it on facebook) or Matt and Kim's Daylight. Today is a very Monday feeling day (you know how Monday can be) and this song keeps it from feeling that way. Enjoy.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Recap.
Dinner... did not turn out as planned... but it was good :)
I tried to make the Blueberry Cake the night before and.. it broke coming out of the mold. Like straight up, busted - my roomates and I enjoyed it though
The fridge was set to 7, 7 being the coldest, so the veggies for the salad were frozen.
BUT the ziti was fun to make, and the dinner/night was wonderful. We caught up over garlic knots and laughed and played a board game - it was good to catch up with good friends.
Tonights plan - Scrabble, Cookies & Biscuits before bedtime.
I tried to make the Blueberry Cake the night before and.. it broke coming out of the mold. Like straight up, busted - my roomates and I enjoyed it though
The fridge was set to 7, 7 being the coldest, so the veggies for the salad were frozen.
BUT the ziti was fun to make, and the dinner/night was wonderful. We caught up over garlic knots and laughed and played a board game - it was good to catch up with good friends.
Tonights plan - Scrabble, Cookies & Biscuits before bedtime.
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Ondricek's
Nathan and Megan OndricekMegan and I had worked at Joyful together for a year and a half when her and Nate were about to get married. J and I made the trip up and it was so worth it. I only started getting to know Nate because he was in a class of mine but he was quirky, smart, charming - perfect for Megan.
Before school got out they invited me over for dinner. Megan made an amazing Split Pea Soup with Ham, and a Salad. For desert I made strawberry shortcakes, and we almost started a fire... then we watched Emperors New Groove - It was a night!
Megan and Nate are up in DC this summer and living about 30 minutes southwest of me. Its been far too long since we have seen each other and so tomorrow we are doing dinner again! Im so excited because I get to cook for them this time and Nate will have to take the Metro for the first time, what an experience. I wanted to post somewhere what I have planned for dinner but didnt want to ruin the surprise so I chose my blog :-)
The Menu
Tossed Salad with Cukes, Tomatoes, and Peppers
Baked Ziti
with Italian Sausage, Homemade Roasted Red Peppers and Fresh Mozz
Blueberry Cake
with a Lemon Glaze
Im SO excited!!
P.S. For Iron Chef I think Becky and I are making a cake so I wanted to get a nice looking cake plate/stand, and I really wanted a ceramic baking dish, so I tripped over to Home Goods. I found a really nice cake stand for $14.99 and a teal square baking dish for $9.99... but I wanted to see what better deal I could find. I went to the sale aisle and found instead a triangular cake plate (Think Equilateral version of a Ouji Board guide) that would fit our cake for $2.00 and a navy square baking dish with a metal rack for $7.99!! I love steals like that :-)
Dear Tourists of Washington, D.C.
If you don't start listening to the announcements/picking up on the patterns that we D.C. Commuters know, love and live by - I am going to write, nay, paint a lovely poster for you so that you may realize what you are doing wrong and why we dont sympathize with you when your arm gets stuck in the Metro door.
Tips from a fully frustrated commuter:
1) When you hear the announcement that the doors are closing, or see the blinking red lights in the door way this is not, I repeat is not, the time to play daredevil and try and make the train. Chances are, there is one right behind the one you are trying to get on. If not, well get to the platform earlier next time but please, do not delay us because you have to make this train. You don't. When the door closes on your purse, your backpack, the tent that you are carrying in said backpack, (or funnier yet) your arm - We dont have much sympathy. Why? Because most likely, it is rush hour that you are doing this during so we are already in a crunch to get to our paying jobs and now the door will (hopefully for you) re open and try and close again. This is a delay. If you continue to stand in the door, it will close on you again... I just may laugh. Then I get to hear a lecture from the conductor on proper Metro door etiqitte, which doesnt make me any more thrilled that you actually made it.
2) When standing on the platform waiting for the train you probably hear an announcement that suggests (read: demands) that you allow passengers to exit the train before you enter the train. This is a safety thing, seriously. When the train stops notice that commuters part to the sides of the doors leaving you and your 8 kids & a stroller standing directly in front of the doors... and people trying to exit. When you push your kids onward this upsets/causes a hold up at the entrance of the train. When you all link arms and try to enter, you make us all upset. Move to the sides and get enter the train like the rest of us do.
3) When your card does not work to allow you in to the metro, Do not stand there and try to force your all day pass in especially during rush hour. We're just trying to get home, sometimes our cards dont work either, it happens - just step to the side or find a less crowded gate but dont hold the rest of us up.
4) Grosvenor has a silent 's'.
5) On the escalator the rule is "Stand Right, Walk Left", standing in the middle may result in a slight shove and/or language. Disclaimer: I have not shoved someone nor used language I would not use at work, but have been the witness to this ocassion many times, the general feeling on the end of the receiver is confusing because they dont know the rule. There is a pattern in all things, just look for it.
That is all I have for now. I called J to rant about this after work and he could not stop laughing. He said " I got your text, I think it said that you dislike tourists on the Metro... Do you remember that was us at one point? " Yes, dear, that was us at one point. However we stood on the right side, realized rush hour was not the time to be at the Metro but rather eating good things like METRO (Silver Diner), Cosi, and Panda Buffet, and "metro surfed" on empty cars rather ones full of people. We were the fun kind of tourists. When I see people like us running around exploring, I smile.
**I sound terribly bitter and angry. Im not. Its all in good fun, until because of your chain link family entering the Metro it is my arm/purse that gets caught ...There may be a problem.
Tips from a fully frustrated commuter:
1) When you hear the announcement that the doors are closing, or see the blinking red lights in the door way this is not, I repeat is not, the time to play daredevil and try and make the train. Chances are, there is one right behind the one you are trying to get on. If not, well get to the platform earlier next time but please, do not delay us because you have to make this train. You don't. When the door closes on your purse, your backpack, the tent that you are carrying in said backpack, (or funnier yet) your arm - We dont have much sympathy. Why? Because most likely, it is rush hour that you are doing this during so we are already in a crunch to get to our paying jobs and now the door will (hopefully for you) re open and try and close again. This is a delay. If you continue to stand in the door, it will close on you again... I just may laugh. Then I get to hear a lecture from the conductor on proper Metro door etiqitte, which doesnt make me any more thrilled that you actually made it.
2) When standing on the platform waiting for the train you probably hear an announcement that suggests (read: demands) that you allow passengers to exit the train before you enter the train. This is a safety thing, seriously. When the train stops notice that commuters part to the sides of the doors leaving you and your 8 kids & a stroller standing directly in front of the doors... and people trying to exit. When you push your kids onward this upsets/causes a hold up at the entrance of the train. When you all link arms and try to enter, you make us all upset. Move to the sides and get enter the train like the rest of us do.
3) When your card does not work to allow you in to the metro, Do not stand there and try to force your all day pass in especially during rush hour. We're just trying to get home, sometimes our cards dont work either, it happens - just step to the side or find a less crowded gate but dont hold the rest of us up.
4) Grosvenor has a silent 's'.
5) On the escalator the rule is "Stand Right, Walk Left", standing in the middle may result in a slight shove and/or language. Disclaimer: I have not shoved someone nor used language I would not use at work, but have been the witness to this ocassion many times, the general feeling on the end of the receiver is confusing because they dont know the rule. There is a pattern in all things, just look for it.
That is all I have for now. I called J to rant about this after work and he could not stop laughing. He said " I got your text, I think it said that you dislike tourists on the Metro... Do you remember that was us at one point? " Yes, dear, that was us at one point. However we stood on the right side, realized rush hour was not the time to be at the Metro but rather eating good things like METRO (Silver Diner), Cosi, and Panda Buffet, and "metro surfed" on empty cars rather ones full of people. We were the fun kind of tourists. When I see people like us running around exploring, I smile.
**I sound terribly bitter and angry. Im not. Its all in good fun, until because of your chain link family entering the Metro it is my arm/purse that gets caught ...There may be a problem.
Time to Budget
As the summer comes to an end, I am realizing just how little money I have left - and how much more I want to do/want to buy. Concert Tickets is the main thing. Ive decided that its better late than never to start a budget. Im hoping to get at least 2 concerts in out of the few that I want to go to (Maroon 5, DMB, Paramore, Kings of Leon, and Fountains of Wayne).
Did I mention I am planning on going to Italy right after graduation...? Yikes. I am the definition of a poor, college student.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Music Monday
I listen to Music, pretty much all of the time. On Sunday its MoTab and this Cello station I have on Pandora. Other days are filled with Florence and the Machine, Carbon Leaf, Justin Bieber (yes), Maroon 5, Kings of Leon, and others. I've decided to do Music Monday - Each Monday I'll share some songs with you that I've recently discovered.
So here we are, the very first Music Monday.
Say You Don't Want It by One Night Only
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Inspiration Boards
Since we do our invitations (and most any other type of card, gift tag, menu cards, thank you notes, etc.) in house I make more than a few trips to PaperSource. It is a store made for people like me. I like to go in after work and play around with all of the colors they have. I love seeing colors work together, I like coordinating colors, I like putting colors together you think would never work, I like accents... Its a shame I don't have the confidence to do it with my wardrobe (I stick to a limited palate of colors when it comes to clothes and shoes).
This little "hobby" of mine makes me want to try my hand at event planning or you know... the dream is to be a wedding planner... :)
One day while looking at ideas for decor for a dinner my co-worker stumbled upon this little website, and its become a favorite of mine. My favorite part? Well, there are many but i LOVE the inspiration boards. Ive made up a few of my own but here are some from their site. {Inspiration Boards are compiled by those who run SnippetandInk & are photos from other sites/sources}
{Ivy & Brick - Ivy Green, Brick}
{Pretty, Pretty Picnic - Oak Leaf, Raspberry, Marigold}
{Poppy & Mint - Mint Blue Green, Poppy Red}
{Baby It's Cold Outside - Snow White, Silver Ice, Royal Blue}
{Sleek Orange & Gray - Cement Gray, Orange Peel}
Let's talk wedding colors. Not that a wedding is really on my mind, nor is there a reason for one to be, but what else do you just throw colors together for? What colors do you like together?
My recent favorites? Burnt Orange & Blue.
(Can't decide if I like the royal blue or the lighter blue better)
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Birds, The New Obsession, Crazy Nights in Bethesda & Upcoming Events
I usually wait until Friday to post but I cant wait!
First - The Birds
I got a call this morning at work from my boss and she says "The nurse spotted me as the woman in The Diplomat, can you go get me a copy?". Sure thing. Walk over to Furins :-), grab one copy, open it up and THERE SHE IS! So I grabbed 4 more (and a croissant) and walk back to the office. On my walk back
I see these two little birds hopping around next to each other, clearly having an intense conversation, as one hops very close to the
other and starts chirping loudly. I giggled... thinking, well - I look crazy, giggling at two little birds...but it did make me smile.
The new obsession -
Mango. Everything Mango. Can't get enough of the stuff. It started with Nantucket Nectar Orange Mango, Continued with Mango HonestAde, and scales were tipped as I went to Trader Joe's this morning for breakfast and bought a Mango smoothie - Yum, Yum and Yum! Not sure what it is about Mango, or this past week that has me craving it
but hey... I'm certainly not complaining. Its good stuff.
Crazy Nights in Bethesda-
Last night (I guess it should be crazy night... I feel there will be more to come though, Ill leave it plural) was NUTS! During work yesterday I am working on Save The Dates for WFP and all of a sudden - a hurricane hits Georgetown! Not really, but it was crazy! Downpour, strong winds, black skies... Crazy. It lasted for maybe an hour and was hot and humid as all get out on my trip home. I must have barely missed the next part of this story because I got home a few minutes before they say it happened but... a guy jumped on the Metro tracks at my metro station. He was not hit by the train but by the electric rails. At this point though, it is rush hour, and did I mention my section of Wisconsin was SOOO without power! Well, I get home & decide I am not sitting in a hot house so I will instead, go explore Maryland, sans tomtom.
I, of course, brought tom with me in case I became so terribly lost I couldn't find my way home but I set off to explore to find out... The traffic lights on a very busy 8ish lane highway are not working, I start taking back roads and there are accidents Everywhere! I decide to just go over to fivebelow to walk around. I get a call from B asking if I made it home... well, of course I did... but shes stuck walking up Wisconsin to get home ...oh gee. That's when I learned about the accident at the metro. M picked her up and then B and I met at home, and went over to FHE (where we were eaten alive by mosquito's as we played water balloon volleyball still, fun was had by all).
We decided that we were not going to heat up the apartment and cook so we convinced a friend to come with us to Arby's. We get back to the apartment and M calls asking if we want to come to Taco Bell... Why sure. I bring my laptop hoping (praying) for Internet and my phone charger since my phone was on its last bar. Taco Bell - No Internet. We go to Mcd's (passing another accident) - No Internet... and an outlet on the ceiling. Picture my stop sign red Samsung Intensity dangling from the ceiling of McDonalds. True Story. We get in contact with a friend in the ward and go to her place where I check facebook (sick) and charge my phone. M gets a call that we have power again and off to home we go. Yikes. What.A.Night.
WHEW, Ready for one more?
Upcoming Events-
I have (slowly) started to find things to do to fill my free-time. Sure, you could go to a museum. You could go tour the monuments. I'm an extrovert, Id rather be with people. Wednesday, B and I are feeding the missionaries. Friday - there is a French Cuisine night and my roommates are showing off their photos from their trip to Istanbul/Egypt. Saturday: a.m. Breakfast at the Brian's home, afternoon Folklife Festival, evening Rehearsal 4th of July Concert. Sunday - Church and then fireworks at the Jefferson. Monday - Trip to Philly/Gettysburg (Cross your fingers). More updates to come.
I should... go do something other than this.
First - The Birds
I got a call this morning at work from my boss and she says "The nurse spotted me as the woman in The Diplomat, can you go get me a copy?". Sure thing. Walk over to Furins :-), grab one copy, open it up and THERE SHE IS! So I grabbed 4 more (and a croissant) and walk back to the office. On my walk back
I see these two little birds hopping around next to each other, clearly having an intense conversation, as one hops very close to theother and starts chirping loudly. I giggled... thinking, well - I look crazy, giggling at two little birds...but it did make me smile.
The new obsession -
Mango. Everything Mango. Can't get enough of the stuff. It started with Nantucket Nectar Orange Mango, Continued with Mango HonestAde, and scales were tipped as I went to Trader Joe's this morning for breakfast and bought a Mango smoothie - Yum, Yum and Yum! Not sure what it is about Mango, or this past week that has me craving it
but hey... I'm certainly not complaining. Its good stuff.
Crazy Nights in Bethesda-
Last night (I guess it should be crazy night... I feel there will be more to come though, Ill leave it plural) was NUTS! During work yesterday I am working on Save The Dates for WFP and all of a sudden - a hurricane hits Georgetown! Not really, but it was crazy! Downpour, strong winds, black skies... Crazy. It lasted for maybe an hour and was hot and humid as all get out on my trip home. I must have barely missed the next part of this story because I got home a few minutes before they say it happened but... a guy jumped on the Metro tracks at my metro station. He was not hit by the train but by the electric rails. At this point though, it is rush hour, and did I mention my section of Wisconsin was SOOO without power! Well, I get home & decide I am not sitting in a hot house so I will instead, go explore Maryland, sans tomtom.
I, of course, brought tom with me in case I became so terribly lost I couldn't find my way home but I set off to explore to find out... The traffic lights on a very busy 8ish lane highway are not working, I start taking back roads and there are accidents Everywhere! I decide to just go over to fivebelow to walk around. I get a call from B asking if I made it home... well, of course I did... but shes stuck walking up Wisconsin to get home ...oh gee. That's when I learned about the accident at the metro. M picked her up and then B and I met at home, and went over to FHE (where we were eaten alive by mosquito's as we played water balloon volleyball still, fun was had by all).
We decided that we were not going to heat up the apartment and cook so we convinced a friend to come with us to Arby's. We get back to the apartment and M calls asking if we want to come to Taco Bell... Why sure. I bring my laptop hoping (praying) for Internet and my phone charger since my phone was on its last bar. Taco Bell - No Internet. We go to Mcd's (passing another accident) - No Internet... and an outlet on the ceiling. Picture my stop sign red Samsung Intensity dangling from the ceiling of McDonalds. True Story. We get in contact with a friend in the ward and go to her place where I check facebook (sick) and charge my phone. M gets a call that we have power again and off to home we go. Yikes. What.A.Night.
WHEW, Ready for one more?
Upcoming Events-
I have (slowly) started to find things to do to fill my free-time. Sure, you could go to a museum. You could go tour the monuments. I'm an extrovert, Id rather be with people. Wednesday, B and I are feeding the missionaries. Friday - there is a French Cuisine night and my roommates are showing off their photos from their trip to Istanbul/Egypt. Saturday: a.m. Breakfast at the Brian's home, afternoon Folklife Festival, evening Rehearsal 4th of July Concert. Sunday - Church and then fireworks at the Jefferson. Monday - Trip to Philly/Gettysburg (Cross your fingers). More updates to come.
I should... go do something other than this.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Week 7 - Complete
I feel like this week has been a blur, compared the last few where I can remember specific things.
Monday -
I had to give devotional at our staff meeting. It was rough because I couldn't think of anything super profound. On Friday on our way to the Senate meeting Reed asked how my parents met and I realized, I didn't really know. Then I thought, well I don't even know how they really joined the church. I mean, I knew the gist but I didn't know the story. So I had my mom e-mail me a talk my dad gave a few months back when John and I were visiting home in which he talked about how he came upon the decision to join. Then I had my mom e-mail me the version including more details, the whys, who was involved, and a better timeline of the events. I decided to tell my office a story of how my family came to join the church. It all started with a conversation in a park. I then said how I really admire the work we do because of all the many, often simple conversations "in the park" that we have as representatives of the Church. Its great the work we can do, by small and simple means. Sure, we plan grand events, dinners every month, coordinate Festival of Lights - but its the discussion, the mentioning of who is sponsoring the event, the thanks we give to Ambassadors for their country's allowance of our missionaries... those are the things that spark interest. Cool stuff.
Tuesday -
Blur. I left early so I could run to Laurel, MD to get a package that was being held at the UPS shipping location. I got my Downeast Basics clothing!! 2 new dresses, 2 shirts, 2 cami's - They are thoroughly modest and as always I had a color scheme (without noticing it until I opened the bag)... it was PINK!! I think this was my first pink color scheme, I don't wear pink. Ha. Guess I do now.
Wednesday -
Stephanie Smith, a woman who has made her way up in CIA rankings, came to speak to BYU Management Society at the Barlow Center. I saw the email and said "Hey! I'm Management Society. I work at the Barlow. I'm going!" So I did. It was GREAT! She is an excellent speaker. Great stories, great presentation, overall wonderful. She is also coming to SVU on September 10th, I hope to have lunch with her then. As I was walking downstairs in walks Kevin and Christian, two friends and fellow SVU- Management Society'ers. I cant tell you how exciting it was to see people I knew! I even got an extra hour and a half to hang out with them after the lecture. Great Day.
Thursday -
Blur. I was so tired and really not all with it.
Friday -
SO MUCH TO DO! Western Family Picnic. Ambassadors Wives Luncheon Photos. Ways and Means Briefing. Letters to Ambassadors. Save the Dates. Keep my sanity... We'll see.
Oh! And one co-worker is gone this week, the other may be leaving Tuesday for a week... pretty much leaving me with lots to do, phones to answer... oh goody. I love it though. Really. I'm excited to see all that I get done next week and excited that they are really trusting me with a lot of high importance things. Yikes. Updates next week, for sure.
Including updates on the camp out tonight and all I hope to do on Saturday.
Monday -
I had to give devotional at our staff meeting. It was rough because I couldn't think of anything super profound. On Friday on our way to the Senate meeting Reed asked how my parents met and I realized, I didn't really know. Then I thought, well I don't even know how they really joined the church. I mean, I knew the gist but I didn't know the story. So I had my mom e-mail me a talk my dad gave a few months back when John and I were visiting home in which he talked about how he came upon the decision to join. Then I had my mom e-mail me the version including more details, the whys, who was involved, and a better timeline of the events. I decided to tell my office a story of how my family came to join the church. It all started with a conversation in a park. I then said how I really admire the work we do because of all the many, often simple conversations "in the park" that we have as representatives of the Church. Its great the work we can do, by small and simple means. Sure, we plan grand events, dinners every month, coordinate Festival of Lights - but its the discussion, the mentioning of who is sponsoring the event, the thanks we give to Ambassadors for their country's allowance of our missionaries... those are the things that spark interest. Cool stuff.
Tuesday -
Blur. I left early so I could run to Laurel, MD to get a package that was being held at the UPS shipping location. I got my Downeast Basics clothing!! 2 new dresses, 2 shirts, 2 cami's - They are thoroughly modest and as always I had a color scheme (without noticing it until I opened the bag)... it was PINK!! I think this was my first pink color scheme, I don't wear pink. Ha. Guess I do now.
Wednesday -
Stephanie Smith, a woman who has made her way up in CIA rankings, came to speak to BYU Management Society at the Barlow Center. I saw the email and said "Hey! I'm Management Society. I work at the Barlow. I'm going!" So I did. It was GREAT! She is an excellent speaker. Great stories, great presentation, overall wonderful. She is also coming to SVU on September 10th, I hope to have lunch with her then. As I was walking downstairs in walks Kevin and Christian, two friends and fellow SVU- Management Society'ers. I cant tell you how exciting it was to see people I knew! I even got an extra hour and a half to hang out with them after the lecture. Great Day.
Thursday -
Blur. I was so tired and really not all with it.
Friday -
SO MUCH TO DO! Western Family Picnic. Ambassadors Wives Luncheon Photos. Ways and Means Briefing. Letters to Ambassadors. Save the Dates. Keep my sanity... We'll see.
Oh! And one co-worker is gone this week, the other may be leaving Tuesday for a week... pretty much leaving me with lots to do, phones to answer... oh goody. I love it though. Really. I'm excited to see all that I get done next week and excited that they are really trusting me with a lot of high importance things. Yikes. Updates next week, for sure.
Including updates on the camp out tonight and all I hope to do on Saturday.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Last Week - Lo Siento, Lots of Text, No Pics
Monday - Spain & Myles' Birthday
Dinner for Spain was Monday night. All day we finished putting together menu cards, place cards, and gift tags. Wrapping gifts, last minute shopping, and lots of spray glue was also included. It the end the dinner was a success and everyone loved the sugar cookies shaped like Spain. Pretty precious (and tasty) if you ask me.
Myles is one person in my ward whose name I can remember. He is one of about... 10 (in that number I am not including my roomates). Monday is usually FHE and this Monday it was a FHE for the whole ward but instead most of us bethesda/parkside people went over to Adam's to play RockBand, Eat Pizza, and celebrate Myles' birthday.
Tuesday - Friday
...all kind of a blur.
We were glad to make it through the Vietnam and Spain dinners alive. There was a lot of follow up to be done for both so I spent a lot of the week labeling photos, writing letters and sending them out. Ive also been working on labeling a huge pile of photos from the first big event of the summer, AWL.
Friday was super busy for us in the office. It started with a very early trip to the metro, three pairs of shoes and my curling iron in a trader joes bag. I got to the office and began helping with set up. This was a unique morning since this type of meeting is a- not usually attended by the whole office, and b - certainly not attended by the intern (s). This was my first meeting like this that I went to, though the 2nd since me being in the office and it was just SO COOL. Being able to witness a meeting like this, the structure, the topics, it was just a great experience. It made me realize how much I really do want to work for one of these offices post grad. I love the work we do.
I left the meeting a little early to run over to Furins for our guests' lunches. After the meeting got out and our guests' were on their way to more meetings we ran upstairs to prepare for our next big event, a meeting up in the Russell Senate Building. After we gathered highlighters, pens, clipboards and our RSVP lists we head up to the Capital. We arrived early which allowed us time to get some kinks straightened out and I took a photo behind the Senate podium. Think its cool that you did that at the American History Museum... yeah... I did it behind the real one :-)
People started arriving, Names were checked, and soon enough our guests arrived. We were able to spend about an hour with them.... I guess at this point I can reveal that among our guests were two members of the 12 Apostles.. After they spoke they had time to shake hands and I was able to take pictures with each of them (Cheesy, paparazzi -ish maybe... but hello! I will not get this chance again!)
After the room cleared we went out for Sushi, It was my first time. We went to this place next to the Hart Building and got a friday special which included a california roll. I think the taste of the seaweed threw me off but otherwise it was good and an experience for sure. I want to try different kinds now that Ive gotten the first time done with.
Friday was pretty much over after that.
Saturday I had planned to go to the city and do all kinds of fun things but... I woke up and remembered my camera battery was dead and I didnt know where the charger was. It must have hit a nerve because I remember being annoyed and tired, and all around moody. I mostly chilled at home for the day. Sunday was Sunday. Today is Monday. Ill blog about this week at the end of it :-)
I think I need to do a picture post... We'll see what time allows this week.
Dinner for Spain was Monday night. All day we finished putting together menu cards, place cards, and gift tags. Wrapping gifts, last minute shopping, and lots of spray glue was also included. It the end the dinner was a success and everyone loved the sugar cookies shaped like Spain. Pretty precious (and tasty) if you ask me.
Myles is one person in my ward whose name I can remember. He is one of about... 10 (in that number I am not including my roomates). Monday is usually FHE and this Monday it was a FHE for the whole ward but instead most of us bethesda/parkside people went over to Adam's to play RockBand, Eat Pizza, and celebrate Myles' birthday.
Tuesday - Friday
...all kind of a blur.
We were glad to make it through the Vietnam and Spain dinners alive. There was a lot of follow up to be done for both so I spent a lot of the week labeling photos, writing letters and sending them out. Ive also been working on labeling a huge pile of photos from the first big event of the summer, AWL.
Friday was super busy for us in the office. It started with a very early trip to the metro, three pairs of shoes and my curling iron in a trader joes bag. I got to the office and began helping with set up. This was a unique morning since this type of meeting is a- not usually attended by the whole office, and b - certainly not attended by the intern (s). This was my first meeting like this that I went to, though the 2nd since me being in the office and it was just SO COOL. Being able to witness a meeting like this, the structure, the topics, it was just a great experience. It made me realize how much I really do want to work for one of these offices post grad. I love the work we do.
I left the meeting a little early to run over to Furins for our guests' lunches. After the meeting got out and our guests' were on their way to more meetings we ran upstairs to prepare for our next big event, a meeting up in the Russell Senate Building. After we gathered highlighters, pens, clipboards and our RSVP lists we head up to the Capital. We arrived early which allowed us time to get some kinks straightened out and I took a photo behind the Senate podium. Think its cool that you did that at the American History Museum... yeah... I did it behind the real one :-)
People started arriving, Names were checked, and soon enough our guests arrived. We were able to spend about an hour with them.... I guess at this point I can reveal that among our guests were two members of the 12 Apostles.. After they spoke they had time to shake hands and I was able to take pictures with each of them (Cheesy, paparazzi -ish maybe... but hello! I will not get this chance again!)
After the room cleared we went out for Sushi, It was my first time. We went to this place next to the Hart Building and got a friday special which included a california roll. I think the taste of the seaweed threw me off but otherwise it was good and an experience for sure. I want to try different kinds now that Ive gotten the first time done with.
Friday was pretty much over after that.
Saturday I had planned to go to the city and do all kinds of fun things but... I woke up and remembered my camera battery was dead and I didnt know where the charger was. It must have hit a nerve because I remember being annoyed and tired, and all around moody. I mostly chilled at home for the day. Sunday was Sunday. Today is Monday. Ill blog about this week at the end of it :-)
I think I need to do a picture post... We'll see what time allows this week.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Origami Flowers, New Hair Color, & Chocolate
This week was busy but fun.
We had two dinners coming up so we had lots to do. Invitations to make & send, placecards to make, menu cards to put together - there was a lot going on. We have one dinner left to go but thursday was our dinner for Vietnam. My coworker mentioned she wanted to have paper lotus flowers on the table in some way, and we decided to use them as placecard holders. I made 19 and attempted to make more but no joke, it took FOREVER. I was at work until 7pm on Wednesday and then stayed home on Thursday just so I could finish them and then work at the dinner. I helped our caterers with plating and serving the food and got to taste the goods as well too.
New Hair Color - Okay, I bought the dye when I was back in NY for Memorial Day Weekend and have gone back and forth on to whether or not I was actually going to color it, well I specifically did not put product in my hair today after showering so it was either do it tonight or who knows when I was going to - as we speak.... as I type rather the dye is on my head! Lets hope this works out and doesnt look too crazy, my boss' boss is coming in tomorrow from SLC to work at the office ha.
& Chocolate. Ever have a craving you just need to satisfy? Well, I read/heard somewhere that if you have a certain craving, specifically for something sweet, but dont have what you need to satisfy it then you shouldnt try and eat other sweet things because it wont fulfill it and you'll just snack more -- Okay, whether or not that is true I am not sure BUT sounds pretty good to me. Tonight I had this bad craving for some chocolate, I had nothing to satisfy that though. I looked around and found some nutella, opened up my bread and while I usually dislike the heel this time it was thick and perfect for some nutella - Craving Satisfied :-)
On a final note, I am watching Singles Ward... It makes me feel better about my ward up here and how crazy I feel like it is.
We had two dinners coming up so we had lots to do. Invitations to make & send, placecards to make, menu cards to put together - there was a lot going on. We have one dinner left to go but thursday was our dinner for Vietnam. My coworker mentioned she wanted to have paper lotus flowers on the table in some way, and we decided to use them as placecard holders. I made 19 and attempted to make more but no joke, it took FOREVER. I was at work until 7pm on Wednesday and then stayed home on Thursday just so I could finish them and then work at the dinner. I helped our caterers with plating and serving the food and got to taste the goods as well too.
New Hair Color - Okay, I bought the dye when I was back in NY for Memorial Day Weekend and have gone back and forth on to whether or not I was actually going to color it, well I specifically did not put product in my hair today after showering so it was either do it tonight or who knows when I was going to - as we speak.... as I type rather the dye is on my head! Lets hope this works out and doesnt look too crazy, my boss' boss is coming in tomorrow from SLC to work at the office ha.
& Chocolate. Ever have a craving you just need to satisfy? Well, I read/heard somewhere that if you have a certain craving, specifically for something sweet, but dont have what you need to satisfy it then you shouldnt try and eat other sweet things because it wont fulfill it and you'll just snack more -- Okay, whether or not that is true I am not sure BUT sounds pretty good to me. Tonight I had this bad craving for some chocolate, I had nothing to satisfy that though. I looked around and found some nutella, opened up my bread and while I usually dislike the heel this time it was thick and perfect for some nutella - Craving Satisfied :-)
On a final note, I am watching Singles Ward... It makes me feel better about my ward up here and how crazy I feel like it is.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Completed - Week 4
I have to say, this job gets more fun and more interesting the further I get into my internship period. This past weekend I went to New York and came back to D.C. Tuesday night. Needless to say, work went by very fast this week. We had a lot to do this week especially since one of my colleagues took her vacation this week. We had two dinners to work on and invitations for both of them had to be made. I think thats one of my favorite things in the office, the fact that we make all of our invitations for events (our last luncheon we had someone do design work on them but generally we make them all). Its just so neat! It also means I get to go on "field trips" to the local Paper Source store. It has to be my favorite thing, I always wind up buying the stuff they sent me for and stuff for myself.
Like this World Map Wrapping Paper or this New York City Wrapping Paper or this little ditty I bought for Mallory, I can put this here because she NEVER reads my blog and wont find out about it until I give it to her tomorrow :-) Yes, Paper Source says they are "wrapping paper" but in my mind they make the PERFECT posters. Not everyone will have one. Plus, I love to travel and I see a room with a few more of these being my perfect space. Once they get this Italy one back in stock I will be off to buy it!
Back to the point, I love that we make our own invitations/menu cards/name cards/place markers... you name it, we're making it and its fun!
Well - without any further delay I think Ill tell you all about my eventful friday.
It was mentioned earlier in the week that someone very important to the LDS Church would be in D.C. for meetings this weekend. It was also mentioned that it was possible, though not likely, that he would drop by. Im not going to be a name dropper, but a few of you know who it was. Ill give you a hint: He has one of the best laughs Ive ever heard. It was strange because when he walked in I was working with one of the directors helping her buy a plane ticket... I almost didnt realize it was him.
Now because it was mentioned that he may or may not come in, I skipped institute. I did not want to miss him if he did come. After he left I ran over to the Hart Senate Building to deliver a dinner invitation to a Senator's office. When leaving I asked a security guard for directions to Union Station. He asked if I was looking for the Metro, and I was, and he said that it was shut down and I should take Capitol South. While walking towards CS I realize, Im right next to the Capitol Building... and the Supreme Court Building... and Library of Congress?!?!?! The Capitol is hard to miss but I hadnt found the other two yet and so I am glad that I know where they are now so I can go back and explore.
I get on the metro and for the first time since I have moved here, I had a conversation with someone while riding the train. Ive fallen in to the D.C. way of things with not talking and playing with my "crackberry" on the way to and from work but this couple sat near me and were discussing metro stops. They couldnt figure out which one was next and so I said "McPherson Square" thats right folks -- no map, no intercom announcement... I just knew. She couldnt find it because of the way her map was folded and this got us talking about why they were in town etc. It was nice to finally talk to people while traveling.
I get off at FB and I immediately get a call from Ashlee, she says "Are you okay?" to which I reply... "yes...?". She proceeds to tell me that they got a report of a shooting at Union Station Metro and she panicked because that was the closest one to the building I was delivering the invitation to. What is scary is when I went back and thought about it, if I had gone to institute on time, by the time I would have gotten out and over to the metro is when the "shooting" happened. We found out later in the day that all the reports of a crime scene, fatal injuries, and gun on the tracks were wrong and it was a fight that occured near the tracks and a teen sustained non-life threatening injuries. Still! Crazy, huh?
It was so hot that I marched on over to Trader Joes for some lime pops and then headed back to work. The rest of the day was filled with making labels, photo copies, R.S.V.P'ing to invitations, e-mails and research for the upcoming dinners.
Can I just say - I love my job. I still cant believe I am doing this. I am still okay with the fact that I am not getting paid. This is the best experience I could be having this summer, and the best preperation for next year when I graduate and am facing the toughest job market.
Well, I am now going to finish cleaning my apartment and get ready to trip down to the BEEV for the weekend.
Out.
Like this World Map Wrapping Paper or this New York City Wrapping Paper or this little ditty I bought for Mallory, I can put this here because she NEVER reads my blog and wont find out about it until I give it to her tomorrow :-) Yes, Paper Source says they are "wrapping paper" but in my mind they make the PERFECT posters. Not everyone will have one. Plus, I love to travel and I see a room with a few more of these being my perfect space. Once they get this Italy one back in stock I will be off to buy it!
Back to the point, I love that we make our own invitations/menu cards/name cards/place markers... you name it, we're making it and its fun!
Well - without any further delay I think Ill tell you all about my eventful friday.
It was mentioned earlier in the week that someone very important to the LDS Church would be in D.C. for meetings this weekend. It was also mentioned that it was possible, though not likely, that he would drop by. Im not going to be a name dropper, but a few of you know who it was. Ill give you a hint: He has one of the best laughs Ive ever heard. It was strange because when he walked in I was working with one of the directors helping her buy a plane ticket... I almost didnt realize it was him.
Now because it was mentioned that he may or may not come in, I skipped institute. I did not want to miss him if he did come. After he left I ran over to the Hart Senate Building to deliver a dinner invitation to a Senator's office. When leaving I asked a security guard for directions to Union Station. He asked if I was looking for the Metro, and I was, and he said that it was shut down and I should take Capitol South. While walking towards CS I realize, Im right next to the Capitol Building... and the Supreme Court Building... and Library of Congress?!?!?! The Capitol is hard to miss but I hadnt found the other two yet and so I am glad that I know where they are now so I can go back and explore.
I get on the metro and for the first time since I have moved here, I had a conversation with someone while riding the train. Ive fallen in to the D.C. way of things with not talking and playing with my "crackberry" on the way to and from work but this couple sat near me and were discussing metro stops. They couldnt figure out which one was next and so I said "McPherson Square" thats right folks -- no map, no intercom announcement... I just knew. She couldnt find it because of the way her map was folded and this got us talking about why they were in town etc. It was nice to finally talk to people while traveling.
I get off at FB and I immediately get a call from Ashlee, she says "Are you okay?" to which I reply... "yes...?". She proceeds to tell me that they got a report of a shooting at Union Station Metro and she panicked because that was the closest one to the building I was delivering the invitation to. What is scary is when I went back and thought about it, if I had gone to institute on time, by the time I would have gotten out and over to the metro is when the "shooting" happened. We found out later in the day that all the reports of a crime scene, fatal injuries, and gun on the tracks were wrong and it was a fight that occured near the tracks and a teen sustained non-life threatening injuries. Still! Crazy, huh?
It was so hot that I marched on over to Trader Joes for some lime pops and then headed back to work. The rest of the day was filled with making labels, photo copies, R.S.V.P'ing to invitations, e-mails and research for the upcoming dinners.
Can I just say - I love my job. I still cant believe I am doing this. I am still okay with the fact that I am not getting paid. This is the best experience I could be having this summer, and the best preperation for next year when I graduate and am facing the toughest job market.
Well, I am now going to finish cleaning my apartment and get ready to trip down to the BEEV for the weekend.
Out.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Week 4
Pictures:
D.C. Temple at night; I live 10 minutes away!
My roomates sister came in to town and they made California Cookies *which were amazing*
This next week will be week 4 of my internship so there is a lot of catching up to do.
The first week or so was mostly me just getting used to the routine of things. Getting on the metro, the walk to the office, doing things in the office (answering phones, mailing cards, making phone calls, and tyin
g bows... ill explain that one) , finding things in georgetown to do over my lunch break or after work, discovering D.C. after work, jumping on the metro home and then passing out ha.
g bows... ill explain that one) , finding things in georgetown to do over my lunch break or after work, discovering D.C. after work, jumping on the metro home and then passing out ha.I think im finally getting the hang of things. I am currently home in new york for the weekend and, crazy as it sounds, really wish that I was in D.C. for the weekend especially considering it is Memorial Day. Im watching a PBS concert being held in the capitol and it makes me "homesick".
Some fun things I have done are:
Worked on a Luncheon - this is where the tying bows comes in, Im fairly certain I tied at least 100 bows for the gifts we gave out. it was a pretty high stress event and there was so much going on but it turned out SO great and Im excited to work on more events.
Attended a Congressional Hearing - I attended a hearing for the Ways and Means Committee on the legalization and taxation of internet gambling. It was hard to get through as I could barely hear most of the speakers but thanks to the wonders of YouTube I found video of the hearing and was able to go back and listen to it. Im really looking forward to being able to attend more of these hearings.
Explored Georgetown - One of my first Saturday nights my roomate Julie, her friend Chris and I went in to Georgetown and explored. We found this great little crepe place that isnt far from my office and I found a new favorite spot - down on the waterfront. There was a lot going on that night but we walked down a little and just sat down by the water... Seriously, so pretty.
Rockband - So what? Right... Thats what youre thinking? Well, hey, Im one of the more social interns in the ward (because I actually want to be here when I graduate so I need to find out if I like the people and social events in the area right?) So yes... I played RockBand the other night
I got lost - Another so what moment? Well, no. It was very fun. One friday after work I just decided to walk around. I ran in to a Borders and bought some books, and kept walking to try and find a metro... and it started storming and really raining hard but I still had fun just roaming around.
Lets see... I think thats about it. My goal is to post more frequently so Ill have a good record of the things I did... Ill work on that.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Im Alive
Ill update later. Work is good but keeps me busy and there is no time to update this thing. Hopefully Ill have some time soon.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
First Sunday.
It started off with me rushing to get ready and then messing around thinking I had time to... and realizing I didnt. TomTom got me lost, but only a little bit. I was able to turn around and get going the right way. Im starting to recognize things, signs, buildings, landmarks but dont ask me to give up TomTom just yet. I got to church and it took me another 5 minutes or so to find parking. I ran into some girls on my short walk to the building who said that parking wasnt usually this good... I think Ill begin leaving earlier :)
Church was... different. The ward was very large, and it seems that its more 6:4 men to women where as SVU is 4:6 women to men (give or take). So hey, at least my chances are good. (and no I dont mean chance of marriage... I just get along with men better than women, so chances of having a fun summer are good). Sacrament meeting was very interesting. We had three speakers, all with really wonderful messages, and a musical number. After Sacrament I turned to the girl next to me to ask what happens next and the Bishop (who I havent met yet) starts talking about "Introductions" and I quickly realize... I now have to introduce myself to the entire ward (which probably consisted of 300 people... Yikes!) Apparently this is a common thing they do almost weekly due to their membership turnover rate. It was all new to me.
Next I went to a "New Members Class" where a bunch of us newbies met and introduced ourselves ...again. My roomate happened to be leading this class so I had at least one familiar face. There were maybe 5 girls, with the rest being security salesmen or pest control salesmen. We went outside to take photos, standard, and the photographer guy made us "hike" up this little path... Im wearing heels... My name is Gina... it goes without saying but I tripped. I didnt fully biff it but I was close, and lost my shoe in the process but one of the security/pest salesmen guys picked it up for me and I turned it into a joke.
On to Relief Society where I once again, introduced myself. This wasnt super eventful but we did get a new Relief Society President. I strolled around the "munch n mingle" and then hiked back to my car and headed home.
Time for a sunday nap, and maybe later tonight a drive up to the temple. :)
Church was... different. The ward was very large, and it seems that its more 6:4 men to women where as SVU is 4:6 women to men (give or take). So hey, at least my chances are good. (and no I dont mean chance of marriage... I just get along with men better than women, so chances of having a fun summer are good). Sacrament meeting was very interesting. We had three speakers, all with really wonderful messages, and a musical number. After Sacrament I turned to the girl next to me to ask what happens next and the Bishop (who I havent met yet) starts talking about "Introductions" and I quickly realize... I now have to introduce myself to the entire ward (which probably consisted of 300 people... Yikes!) Apparently this is a common thing they do almost weekly due to their membership turnover rate. It was all new to me.
Next I went to a "New Members Class" where a bunch of us newbies met and introduced ourselves ...again. My roomate happened to be leading this class so I had at least one familiar face. There were maybe 5 girls, with the rest being security salesmen or pest control salesmen. We went outside to take photos, standard, and the photographer guy made us "hike" up this little path... Im wearing heels... My name is Gina... it goes without saying but I tripped. I didnt fully biff it but I was close, and lost my shoe in the process but one of the security/pest salesmen guys picked it up for me and I turned it into a joke.
On to Relief Society where I once again, introduced myself. This wasnt super eventful but we did get a new Relief Society President. I strolled around the "munch n mingle" and then hiked back to my car and headed home.
Time for a sunday nap, and maybe later tonight a drive up to the temple. :)
Saturday, May 8, 2010
First Weekend in Maryland
"Ive arrived"
That is the message I sent to a few dear friends letting them know I had gotten to my apartment. By the time I arrived it was late but I got there without getting lost thanks to my dear TomTom. I met with my roomate, Becky, and she helped me unpack my car and gave me a little tour. So far, so good.
This morning Megan and I planned to meet up and find our offices. Hers being the Museum of Natural History and mine being The Barlow Center. It started off with me getting on the wrong metro and having to backtrack a bit. It was a long ride in and the train was packed, there was a baseball game today and track maintence... oh well.
I finally arrived at Metro Center to find a confused Megan (she thought Metro Center = Union Station) but we got back to our plan and headed off to find her museum. She has a nice stop and a short walk to her museum. Next stop was my office! I had gotten a tip from my bishop "Foggy Bottom... Turn Left" I should have listened. I turned left but then began to complicate things, we were crossing streets, getting distracted by Trader Joe's, and simply getting a little lost. I found a postal worker and asked her and she gave me directions. We were SO CLOSE without knowing it so I replied "Really?!" and she said "NO! You did not just say Really?!"
Lesson 1: When asking for directions, a simple reply of "Thank You" will suffice.
We found my office. Its the cutest thing on the outside. Its a small building with a church sign outside of it and near some nice little places I can go for lunch nearby. Im excited. Scared. Nervous.
I dont think I have ever had so many emotions at one time.
Megan and I went back to Foggy Bottom and caught our metros home. This time, I went the right way. I called Webster on my walk back to my apartment and we caught up on life. Its seriously great (and a blessing a lot of the time) to have a friend who is willing to spend 40 min listening to me list of my worries and then telling me to knock it off because I really have nothing to worry about and the concerns I do have are valid but "you're a new yorker, you're gina, you can do this".
Its now 126am sunday morning... Ive been sleeping all afternoon so I think ill unpack now.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Bethesda, Maryland
Here it is. Bethesda. I know nothing about this place except - this is where my housing will be during my internship. Its kind of exciting because it means its another state that I have been in for an extended period of time. (the temple is there but we dont stay for more than a few hours). So now I have lived in New York, Virginia, Florida and Maryland and been in Conneticut, Massachusets, North Carolina, and New Jersey. I think its getting about time for me to start traveling out west a bit more. For now, Im excited to be in Maryland for the summer.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Yes, Sir - It's True!
I have been offered and accepted an internship in Washington, DC for the summer of 2010. It will probably be one of the most exciting, scary, trying, thrilling experiences I have ever had the chance to have but I am ready to jump in, head first, and get started. I will be working for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in their Office of Public and International Relations. Most of my internship will be focused on the International Side but I should get a taste of both. I am very excited for this chance for many reasons, some of which are:
1) Southern Virginia University does not have a specific "Public Relations" program. While we are offered many courses that teach us about different aspects that have to do with Public Relations, there is no real set course in all the things I need to learn about this field. This internship will give me the great opportunity of learning by being immersed in the field and to be working with people who know their stuff.
2) A large part of my internship is planning an event that will be held in September. Through Management Society I have learned much about the planning and execution of events but this will allow me to learn more about it through actually doing it. This is a field I really have an interest in and cant wait to learn more about.
3) I will be living near Washington, DC. I cant live in the city or too close because of the cost but have found a friend whose family has been really awesome and offered me a space to live in their home for the summer saving me rent (which, because this is an unpaid internship, is a big help)
4) I will be working for The Church... My Church! How great is that? I really don't think I need to explain that one much more but I am super grateful for the chance to do that.
5) Did I mention that this is MY CITY? I made my first trip to Washington, DC with John and Becky in the beginning of June 2009. John and I had just seen "Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian" and I mentioned how cool DC looked and how it looked like it would be fun to see... He was shocked that I had never been and we began making plans immediately for a trip so I could explore. I fell in love. Fall Semester I made it a point to get there at least once a month. These trips were mainly so we could get to The Temple but it was also so we could explore. I learned how to navigate the metro, I found new art galleries (This is my favorite one), found new places to eat (COSI!)... and each time I returned with sore feet but even more excitement for my next trip. It has been about 4 months since I have been on a trip like this and I am anxious to return.
6) Not related to the internship itself but...
I began thinking that I would be pretty alone up in that area, as far as people I know being up there already, but have found how wrong I was. My friend Megan and her husband will be up there while he is selling Pest Control, My friend Jenna recently got a job that will allow her to teach and get her masters at the same time (so excited for her), another friend, Bree, moved up there after graduation (I lived with Bree for Maymester after my freshman year so it has been some time since I have seen her), and this super great person, Mel, will be up there as well (Mel worked for the cafe I work for now before I got there and if you havent checked out her music... do it)
Basically - The Lord is very good to me, and knows me so well. Knows me well enough to have put so many people in my path that have helped me get this internship, and friends who will be there over the summer helping me to have some extra support. Im excited for this chance and hope youll follow me over My Summer in Washington
1) Southern Virginia University does not have a specific "Public Relations" program. While we are offered many courses that teach us about different aspects that have to do with Public Relations, there is no real set course in all the things I need to learn about this field. This internship will give me the great opportunity of learning by being immersed in the field and to be working with people who know their stuff.
2) A large part of my internship is planning an event that will be held in September. Through Management Society I have learned much about the planning and execution of events but this will allow me to learn more about it through actually doing it. This is a field I really have an interest in and cant wait to learn more about.
3) I will be living near Washington, DC. I cant live in the city or too close because of the cost but have found a friend whose family has been really awesome and offered me a space to live in their home for the summer saving me rent (which, because this is an unpaid internship, is a big help)
4) I will be working for The Church... My Church! How great is that? I really don't think I need to explain that one much more but I am super grateful for the chance to do that.
5) Did I mention that this is MY CITY? I made my first trip to Washington, DC with John and Becky in the beginning of June 2009. John and I had just seen "Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian" and I mentioned how cool DC looked and how it looked like it would be fun to see... He was shocked that I had never been and we began making plans immediately for a trip so I could explore. I fell in love. Fall Semester I made it a point to get there at least once a month. These trips were mainly so we could get to The Temple but it was also so we could explore. I learned how to navigate the metro, I found new art galleries (This is my favorite one), found new places to eat (COSI!)... and each time I returned with sore feet but even more excitement for my next trip. It has been about 4 months since I have been on a trip like this and I am anxious to return.
6) Not related to the internship itself but...
I began thinking that I would be pretty alone up in that area, as far as people I know being up there already, but have found how wrong I was. My friend Megan and her husband will be up there while he is selling Pest Control, My friend Jenna recently got a job that will allow her to teach and get her masters at the same time (so excited for her), another friend, Bree, moved up there after graduation (I lived with Bree for Maymester after my freshman year so it has been some time since I have seen her), and this super great person, Mel, will be up there as well (Mel worked for the cafe I work for now before I got there and if you havent checked out her music... do it)
Basically - The Lord is very good to me, and knows me so well. Knows me well enough to have put so many people in my path that have helped me get this internship, and friends who will be there over the summer helping me to have some extra support. Im excited for this chance and hope youll follow me over My Summer in Washington
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