I feel good all over....

Top ten reasons to feel good right now. (in no particular order)

4. Camp is just around the corner. Although my role has changed and the once happy-go- lucky days of summer camp directing are over, the reponsibility of running 7 programs this summer is somehow overshadowed by the warm weather and the anticipation of the campers actually being here. This, i suppose, is why I am here and why I continue to justify the weight of this job.

7. Final bowling night of the season last night. Tony, Cy, John, Brad, Andrew, Kelli and I rocked the machine for a good three hours and the company was fantastic. We spent time with Billy too- such easy conversation makes for a great time had by all, the kind of night where you leave the bar smiling and wake up smiling because you have such hilarious friends. I adore Tony and Cy- "pit spank" and "sizzle"

1. I have a super rad roomate. his name is Tanner. It is fucking (sorry for swearing Lela) fantastic to have a roomate again. I didn't realize how much i loved having someone to talk to at the end of the day. We blend very well, style, mind, heart- it all works out and I am super glad. The hilarious moment that sums up our relationship and comedic living arrangement.
Tanner: (calling at 1:30am, drunk) Hey what are you doing?
Me: (drunk at 1:30am, answering the phone) I don't know
T: (explains his entire evening, then,) Well, I just wanted to tell you that I will be home in a little bit, did i wake you?
Me: No, I just got home. Tanner, I ate your Tostinos pizza.
T: That's okay.
Me: I'm sorry (giggling)
T: Don't worry about it, I'll see you soon. (giggling)

Tanner comes home and evidently we talk, though I don't remember any of it. This is why we work so well together.

10. I quit smoking. I waited to post because many of you will not believe me, and I, at times, have a hard time believing myself. Two weeks and one day with no cigarettes. cold Turkey. My friend and co-worker, Al, who is like the camp dad offered a peice of advice. "the secret to not smoking is.... not putting a cigarette in your mouth" dammit- all along- it was right in front of me. I know this is ridiculously simple but it has worked wonders for me. That and not smelling like a dirty bar.... and coughing chunks.....that too.

5. I received a package from my friend Jim in South Korea. It was thoughtful and hilarious and endearing all at once. i loved it. He had his students write letters and my favorite was from Minnie, " send me picture, I want to see your face. Mmmm..." I am not sure if the "mmmm..." was her thinking what to write next or the seven year old thinking about my face... either way- it was pretty amusing and my new favorite phrase is "I want to see your face".

2. I made the best mixed cd of my life, according to me. It was made for a friend and turned out to be one that I burned 5 times so that everyone could have a copy. It has music by: Killers, Modest Mouse, Jeff Buckley, Scissor Sisters, Rachel Yamagata, Luscious Jackson, Beck, Ray Lamontagne, Jack Johnson, Remy Zero, The Shins ... needless to say- it is fantastic.

8. My leg is the size of a tree trunk. This is not a feel good reason, but because of this I have a large perscription for pain-killers which has led to sleepless nights and some pretty bizarre creative spells. I have my first physical therapy appointment today.

3. I went to Chicago for the weekend for a National Conference for work and stayed at the Hilton on Michigan Avenue. It was hot. I lived like a queen and got to see Time Rock for his birthday. that was fantastic... oh- and the opportunity to WOW the people at Nationals. (editors note: Living like a queen also means paying the queens bill upon check out... which is not hot.)

6. I may get another dog. He is a 1 week old pure bred jack russel terrior.. he is beautiful. i met him when he was four days old. I can have him in 8 weeks. I would like for Steve to have a brother and i would like to name him Brian, Mike, or Robert. Classic names. Iw ill have to wait until I see him again and get an idea for his personality. Tanner wants a girl so he can name it Lita.

9. Tony and Cy bought the Garden. This is a huge deal. The garden is Des Moines biggest "alternative" club and is known for having the best dance music in Des Moines. and my friends own it. awesome. I am so proud of these guys. They are wonderful and smart and creative and will turn the party out.


I hope that everyone is doing well. I apologize for the lack of blog. 'tis the season. I will write as often as I can... hang in there.

Take is easy and enjoy the gorgeous weather. All my best to yas.

Chris Kilgore- I would love to receive any mail from you- it has been too long friend. And I'm totally over you moving and not telling me and not saying goodbye and not emailing for months- yeah- I am over it.

ciao.
c