Ahhh... a day of complete and absolute rest...
It started by waking up by 9am, going out and sitting on the deck, enjoying the sounds of morning.
Then, all of a sudden, I'm trimming bushes in the front yard, edging and mowing the lawn, and watering the grass! It was 90 frigging degrees outside!
Oy. I need to re-evaluate my days of rest...
Monday, May 29, 2006
Monday, May 15, 2006
Times like these...
I got home from work today, thinking one thought: I'm so glad that I can ride tonight!
My training mileage was upped yesterday to 15 miles per day, 3-4 times per week. Damn, it feels good to push myself again!
And I don't just mean physically. A girl once told me that there's nothing a little VO2 max and Eastern religion can't take care of. She was talking about martial arts, but the same goes for riding. If you ride long enough, you will suffer. Sufferring brings on the fight or flight reactions in your body, which in turn heighten your sense of awareness.
Once you complete the sufferring, your body still hums on that heightened sense of awareness. And although I've been off the bike for 3 hours, that's still where I am.
Life is good.
Life is great.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Thanks, Frankie!
Wow. Today was one of those days when you don't realize all of the greatness going on around you until you look back on it.
We kicked off Gilda's Riders with a lecture by Frankie Andreu. Frankie talked about behind the scenes of the Tour de France. It was quite entertaining. We had pictures taken, and Frankie left with a copy of Cancerboy.
I gotta say, Frankie was a lot of fun, and a terrific person.
Here is a little speech I prepared for tonight:
Hi. My name is Matt Cummings. I am a volunteer and member here at Gilda's Club. I am also a cancer survivor.
Prior to my diagnosis in 2002, I had participated in MS rides and the AIDS vaccine research rides. As a result, I was in the best shape of my life when I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease.
Quite simply, cycling saved my life.
Once I finished my chemotherapy and radiation treatments, I was consumed with the need to give back. And that's how I ended up here at Gilda's Club.
I developed a deep love for this place - a place that helps so many people in the Metro Detroit area.
One of the greatest things about this place - aside from the staff and membership - is all of the programs it provides for free to cancer patients, survivors, their friends and families.
Last November, I was extemely fortunate to meet Frankie Andreu and share my concept of a fundraiser that combines two of my passions - cycling and Gilda's Club.
The fact that Frankie is here tonight to help us launch the fundraiser is not only a testament to the concept, but also to Frankie's character, and his desire to give back to his community as well.
This fundraiser is called "Gilda's Riders", and consists of a team of riders who will train to ride the Big Mac Scenic Fall Tour in September, while committing to raise a minimum of $250 a piece.
I would like for you to consider joining Gilda's Riders - we have information available on the table outside of this room. If you've already decided to join us, we have a sign up sheet out there as well. If nothing else, I hope you will at least consider making a donation to this wonderful place.
With that said, I am extremely honored to introduce an American cycling legend, Frankie Andreu.
We had a couple of people sign up to be on our team, and a bunch of people took information home with them.
I feel like I've been working so hard on this project, and tonight a slight weight has been taken off my shoulders. What's really important to me is that Michael Radner thought tonight was a success. And looking at it from his point of view, it really was.
Part of cancer's devastation is that you can rarely predict it. When those people left Gilda's Club tonight, nearly every one of them walked away with some sort of information pertaining to Gilda's Club.
After all, since we're all on this planet together, we may as well help each other out, eh?
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Crazy is just another point of view...
Sometimes life just gets freakishly crazy. For me, that time is right now.
Despite what it may sound like, I am not complaining. I enjoy being busy, as long as I know there will be a chance to relax after the work is done.
These days, "the work" includes getting the house in shape after Sheryl moved in, and preparations for our big Frankie Andreu lecture at Gilda's Club on Wednesday, kicking off the Gilda's Riders fundraiser.
Keeping up with these things while maintaining 2 nights of darts per week and one night of tai chi is pretty difficult. That's the only reason I'm glad that both dart seasons are over for me.
Let me take a step back, though, and talk a bit about Sheryl moving in. Prior to her move, I worked at fixing up the bedroom - it was the only room in the back of my house that hasn't been touched since I moved in back in December 1996. I removed carpeting, replaced a ceiling fan, and painted, painted, painted!
Once she moved in, though, we had to find a place for Sheryl's stuff... combining 2 households into 1 has been interesting. But the nice thing is that both of us realize that our stuff is simply "stuff", and we are finding that we have an attachment to only a few things. Everything else goes in a garage sale!!
While still wading though that "stuff", we have been dedicating a lot of time to "Gilda's Riders". From developing a logo and flyers to discussing sponsorship levels, we have been neck deep in this project. Fortunately, we have had amazing support from some friends and family members, which has taken much of the stress of us, so we can deal with getting our house together.
Nonetheless, things have been extremely stressful. Although I'm nearly 40, I still consider myself pretty young, though, and can handle the stress for now. Once we get past the phrenetic preparations of Frankie's lecture, we'll have a brief moment to breathe before the second wave hits...
It's all good. I love my life and I all but one thing about it right now. That one thing is that I had a second interview with a company that seemed right up my alley last week, but they apparently went with someone else. Really took the wind right outta me.
But... everything happens for a reason, and I know that something amazing awaits me each time I get out of bed.
And I can't wait to find out what it is!!!
Sometimes life just gets freakishly crazy. For me, that time is right now.
Despite what it may sound like, I am not complaining. I enjoy being busy, as long as I know there will be a chance to relax after the work is done.
These days, "the work" includes getting the house in shape after Sheryl moved in, and preparations for our big Frankie Andreu lecture at Gilda's Club on Wednesday, kicking off the Gilda's Riders fundraiser.
Keeping up with these things while maintaining 2 nights of darts per week and one night of tai chi is pretty difficult. That's the only reason I'm glad that both dart seasons are over for me.
Let me take a step back, though, and talk a bit about Sheryl moving in. Prior to her move, I worked at fixing up the bedroom - it was the only room in the back of my house that hasn't been touched since I moved in back in December 1996. I removed carpeting, replaced a ceiling fan, and painted, painted, painted!
Once she moved in, though, we had to find a place for Sheryl's stuff... combining 2 households into 1 has been interesting. But the nice thing is that both of us realize that our stuff is simply "stuff", and we are finding that we have an attachment to only a few things. Everything else goes in a garage sale!!
While still wading though that "stuff", we have been dedicating a lot of time to "Gilda's Riders". From developing a logo and flyers to discussing sponsorship levels, we have been neck deep in this project. Fortunately, we have had amazing support from some friends and family members, which has taken much of the stress of us, so we can deal with getting our house together.
Nonetheless, things have been extremely stressful. Although I'm nearly 40, I still consider myself pretty young, though, and can handle the stress for now. Once we get past the phrenetic preparations of Frankie's lecture, we'll have a brief moment to breathe before the second wave hits...
It's all good. I love my life and I all but one thing about it right now. That one thing is that I had a second interview with a company that seemed right up my alley last week, but they apparently went with someone else. Really took the wind right outta me.
But... everything happens for a reason, and I know that something amazing awaits me each time I get out of bed.
And I can't wait to find out what it is!!!
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Gilda's Riders FAQs, part 1
It's not always easy to fully explain your own concept. Being too close to the issue, it's hard to step back and look at broad issues. As a result, I have invited some people to ask questions about the Gilda's Riders fundraiser for Gilda's Club. Here is part one:
What happens if I am 1/2 way through the ride and can't make it all of the way?
The Big Mac ride - which we wil be doing - has 25, 50, 75 and 100 mile courses. Although it is our goal to train for the 100 mile ride, riding the 100 miles is not required. You can choose to ride a shorter distance. Also, the ride will have a sag wagon available. If you have problems or need help, someone will be by to help you out.
Do all of the funds I raise go directly to Gilda's Club?
Yes, yes, yes! There is a planning committee, and a group of other people, who are working to find Gilda's Riders sponsors - companies that will donate to the cost of the event in return for their logo being placed on our jerseys for advertising purposes. However, as a rider, ALL donations you receive will go directly to Gilda's Club Metro Detroit.
What kind of support will be available for me during the ride? (Water, ambulance, etc.)
The ride course has plenty of water and food stops, and as I mentioned, there are regular drive-bys from sag wagons
Are there any places to take a break for lunch, or to use the bathroom?
Every 10 miles or so, there are break stops, where you can get some food, fluids and relieve yourself as well. In addition, there are plenty of wooded areas if you can't quite hold it...
What happens if it rains? Is there an alternate date?
The event will take place on September 16, rain or shine.
Well, that's all for now! Stay tuned!
It's not always easy to fully explain your own concept. Being too close to the issue, it's hard to step back and look at broad issues. As a result, I have invited some people to ask questions about the Gilda's Riders fundraiser for Gilda's Club. Here is part one:
What happens if I am 1/2 way through the ride and can't make it all of the way?
The Big Mac ride - which we wil be doing - has 25, 50, 75 and 100 mile courses. Although it is our goal to train for the 100 mile ride, riding the 100 miles is not required. You can choose to ride a shorter distance. Also, the ride will have a sag wagon available. If you have problems or need help, someone will be by to help you out.
Do all of the funds I raise go directly to Gilda's Club?
Yes, yes, yes! There is a planning committee, and a group of other people, who are working to find Gilda's Riders sponsors - companies that will donate to the cost of the event in return for their logo being placed on our jerseys for advertising purposes. However, as a rider, ALL donations you receive will go directly to Gilda's Club Metro Detroit.
What kind of support will be available for me during the ride? (Water, ambulance, etc.)
The ride course has plenty of water and food stops, and as I mentioned, there are regular drive-bys from sag wagons
Are there any places to take a break for lunch, or to use the bathroom?
Every 10 miles or so, there are break stops, where you can get some food, fluids and relieve yourself as well. In addition, there are plenty of wooded areas if you can't quite hold it...
What happens if it rains? Is there an alternate date?
The event will take place on September 16, rain or shine.
Well, that's all for now! Stay tuned!
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
ATTENTION BICYCLISTS
(AND CYCLING WANNABE’S)!
Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit is now recruiting individuals
in search of an amazing journey!
¨ Do you have something to prove to yourself?
¨ Do you believe that you can be an even greater source of inspiration to someone you love?
¨ Do you want to support Gilda’s Club?
¨ Do you believe in aiming high?
Become a part of something BIG… join Gilda’s Riders!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
With the help of
2-Time Olympian and 9-Time Tour de France rider
(and Lance Armstrong teammate)
Frankie Andreu…
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Our goals are:
¨ to help you train for and ride up to 100 miles in one day
(AND CYCLING WANNABE’S)!
Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit is now recruiting individuals
in search of an amazing journey!
¨ Do you have something to prove to yourself?
¨ Do you believe that you can be an even greater source of inspiration to someone you love?
¨ Do you want to support Gilda’s Club?
¨ Do you believe in aiming high?
Become a part of something BIG… join Gilda’s Riders!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
With the help of
2-Time Olympian and 9-Time Tour de France rider
(and Lance Armstrong teammate)
Frankie Andreu…
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Our goals are:
¨ to help you train for and ride up to 100 miles in one day
in Mackinaw City, MI in September 2006, and;
¨ to raise at least $2,500 for Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit!
TOGETHER, WE CAN DO IT!!
For more information, please contact:
Michelle Warren Matt Cummings
(248) 577-0800 or (248) 547-8033
mwarren@gildasclubdetroit.org mattc2k3@yahoo.com
¨ to raise at least $2,500 for Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit!
TOGETHER, WE CAN DO IT!!
For more information, please contact:
Michelle Warren Matt Cummings
(248) 577-0800 or (248) 547-8033
mwarren@gildasclubdetroit.org mattc2k3@yahoo.com
Sunday, April 02, 2006
Miles to Goal...Recently, I blogged about how my Hodgkin's diagnosis altered my ability to set goals. I said that I haven't figured out how to regain my goal-focus.
Well, things have improved dramatically.
They say that the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem. I've recently realized that my lack of goal setting was a problem, and it hindered any attempts I made at achieving the great things that I've been put on this planet to do.
So I started training in the morning before I went to work, riding 10 miles prior to eating breakfast and taking a shower. Riding has always helped clear my head, but it wasn't solely the riding that helped me out this time.
When I get into the shower, I repeat my daily affirmations over and over. Then, on my way into work, I shut off the car radio and really come to terms about myself, my life and my future. It has been the best silence ever.
I finally came to understand that I am a helper by nature. I don't require riches or toys. I don't require fame or the spotlight. However, I am willing to take on all of those things if it will help someone or something else.
Unknowingly, Sheryl has helped me understand a lot more about myself than I expected. Her love and support gives me a safety net. She's always behind me, rooting me on, and seeing as that I've never allowed anyone to do that for me before, I'm realizing what I've missed out on.
A few weeks ago, I sat down and forced myself to envision a future. My experience with cancer made me realize that today may be our last, and that is how I lived my life for nearly four years. This was my downfall.
Although it is incredibly important to realize that life is precious, and that each breath could be our last, we still need to plan for the future.
For me, my future is now paved with goals, and I feel like a complete person again. I am hungry and ambitious. I am extremely happy and gratious.
I can't wait to see how much more amazing my life will be!
Thursday, March 30, 2006
The Pressure (in the tires) Is On!
The other day, I was telling Sheryl that I can't wait to blog about important stuff, rather than blogging about personal updates. Well, guess what?? Important stuff rears its head!
Yesterday, I sent out an e-mail, discussing the bike ride fundraiser I'm doing for Gilda's Club. The meat and potatoes:
####################
Each September, there is a ride that occurs in Mackinaw City, called the "Big Mac". A person can ride 25, 50, 75 or 100 miles during this one-day bike tour.
I had the idea that we could get a team of people together and train to accomplish the 100 mile route. In addition, we could get each person to raise a minimum of $250. Occasionally, riders might answer questionnaires and perhaps even document their journey in a notebook. They might even be interviewed.
All of this documentation would be put together into a book, which could also be sold to generate additional funds for Gilda's Club.
To motivate us, I thought it would be cool to have a local cycling celebrity come do a presentation at Gilda's Club. Well, not only did 2-time Olympian and 9-time Tour de France rider (not to mention long-time teammate of Lance Armstrong and OLN commentator) Frankie Andreu agree to this, but he also offerred to develop training plans to help us achieve our goal, PLUS, he agreed to do a training ride with us as well!
This event has suddenly become a series of exciting possibilities for Gilda's Club, and although it's still early, I have a goal for this event to raise $7,000 - not including the proceeds from the book.
Here is where I am in great need of help. I am seeking riders, donors and sponsors.
Riders - join my team and challenge yourself to train and ride 100 miles (the cycling equivalent of a marathon) in Mackinaw City in September 2006. Each rider will be required to raise a minimum of $250.
Donors - Gilda's Club is a non-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible. Personally, I am seeking to raise $1,500, so a donation of any amount would be appreciated and put to great use at the clubhouse.
Sponsors - the team of riders will be dealing with transportation issues, to and from Mackinaw City, as well as bike supplies and Mackinaw City accommodations. We are looking for companies willing to sponsor us to help offset those costs. Each sponsor will have their logo printed on our team jersey, which will be worn during training rides, and at the Big Mac ride itself.
I am also on the lookout for a handful of planning committee members. Lord knows I can use more input!
If you - and/or anyone you know - are interested in knowing more about any of these opportunities, please please PLEASE contact me and let me know. I would be happy to provide further details. Heck, I'll bring you to Gilda's Club and show you what a wonderful place it is, and why it's worth participating in this event!
##################
I never know who is reading my blog, so I wanted to put the info out here and see what sort of response I get. I am really excited to take this journey and see where it ends up. The money will help keep Gilda's Club providing much needed support for people who are experiencing cancer - either their own or a loved one's.
Well, that's about it for now... blog ya later!
The other day, I was telling Sheryl that I can't wait to blog about important stuff, rather than blogging about personal updates. Well, guess what?? Important stuff rears its head!
Yesterday, I sent out an e-mail, discussing the bike ride fundraiser I'm doing for Gilda's Club. The meat and potatoes:
####################
Each September, there is a ride that occurs in Mackinaw City, called the "Big Mac". A person can ride 25, 50, 75 or 100 miles during this one-day bike tour.
I had the idea that we could get a team of people together and train to accomplish the 100 mile route. In addition, we could get each person to raise a minimum of $250. Occasionally, riders might answer questionnaires and perhaps even document their journey in a notebook. They might even be interviewed.
All of this documentation would be put together into a book, which could also be sold to generate additional funds for Gilda's Club.
To motivate us, I thought it would be cool to have a local cycling celebrity come do a presentation at Gilda's Club. Well, not only did 2-time Olympian and 9-time Tour de France rider (not to mention long-time teammate of Lance Armstrong and OLN commentator) Frankie Andreu agree to this, but he also offerred to develop training plans to help us achieve our goal, PLUS, he agreed to do a training ride with us as well!
This event has suddenly become a series of exciting possibilities for Gilda's Club, and although it's still early, I have a goal for this event to raise $7,000 - not including the proceeds from the book.
Here is where I am in great need of help. I am seeking riders, donors and sponsors.
Riders - join my team and challenge yourself to train and ride 100 miles (the cycling equivalent of a marathon) in Mackinaw City in September 2006. Each rider will be required to raise a minimum of $250.
Donors - Gilda's Club is a non-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible. Personally, I am seeking to raise $1,500, so a donation of any amount would be appreciated and put to great use at the clubhouse.
Sponsors - the team of riders will be dealing with transportation issues, to and from Mackinaw City, as well as bike supplies and Mackinaw City accommodations. We are looking for companies willing to sponsor us to help offset those costs. Each sponsor will have their logo printed on our team jersey, which will be worn during training rides, and at the Big Mac ride itself.
I am also on the lookout for a handful of planning committee members. Lord knows I can use more input!
If you - and/or anyone you know - are interested in knowing more about any of these opportunities, please please PLEASE contact me and let me know. I would be happy to provide further details. Heck, I'll bring you to Gilda's Club and show you what a wonderful place it is, and why it's worth participating in this event!
##################
I never know who is reading my blog, so I wanted to put the info out here and see what sort of response I get. I am really excited to take this journey and see where it ends up. The money will help keep Gilda's Club providing much needed support for people who are experiencing cancer - either their own or a loved one's.
Well, that's about it for now... blog ya later!
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Whirlwind, whirl!I've got to admit... right now, my life is amazing. Crazy. Crazily amazing.
Prior to being treated for Hodgkin's Disease, I was goal-oriented and successful. I had recognized that my career was starting to go nowhere, and thought I'd head off into a new direction - in occupational therapy. Well, the universe had other plans for me. I got sick and although I survived, my life was turned upside down.
I wanted to do everything, and not miss a single opportunity. I wanted to have fun for the rest of my life... and that's exactly where I headed. Jobless, I met an amazing girl, but wasn't able to give her the things I wanted to give her. Heck, I couldn't even afford flowers.
Then I got that five-week job, and getting laid off from there REALLY sucked the wind out of me. I completely lost any focus I thought I had... and ambition? That could have been a four-letter word for all I knew!
So here I am, a changed man.
I came to understand everything I was doing wrong. I learned that I was goal-less and unfocused. I had forgotten it all.
But not anymore.
So what's so different these days? Well, to start, I've got this job that has forced me to look at what I REALLY wanted from a job. And I started to focus. I started making goals. I started to change the defeatist thoughts I had.
And positive things have already come about. I had an interview last week for a job right up my alley. This week, I'm supposed to have a second interview with the company.
I am getting things underway for the big bike ride fundraiser for Gilda's Club in September. I am gathering together a few folks who can help make this happen - and it's very exciting!
So, despite being incommunicado for a while, things are going really well. I am so excited about how things are going now, and am really looking forward to see how things pan out in the future. I realize why I am on this planet, and I am constantly looking for opportunities to accomplish my purpose.
Wow, that sounded cult-ish!
Anyhow, with so much going on, I may not be blogging very regularly... but keep checking, I'll be blogging as often as I can!
If you've got any thoughts, or a desire to help me make this Gilda's Club fundraiser amazing, or just wanna say hi, drop me a line: mattc2k3@yahoo.com
Ciao for now!
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Monday, March 06, 2006
Cancerboy as survivor
I've been noodling around with an idea for a sequel to "Cancerboy". It talks about what happens after I survived cancer.
I'm curious to see how many other people were affected by cancer survivorship like I am.
See, when you achieve the title of "survivor", life is amazing. You realize that you can do anything... and you can do everything. And you don't have to do anything you don't want to.
Cancer rewrote the rules of life for me. I lost my career drive and lost the understanding for needing and achieving goals. I found myself waiting to pounce on the next great experience - the next thing that would define my reason for being on this planet - without ever achieving anything.
This month, I honor the 4th anniversary of my Hodgkin's diagnosis. My life is nothing like it was four years ago - and definitely for the better. But there are those nagging thoughts about why I can't seem to develop and shoot for goals - I was always a goal-oriented person.
The world isn't yet fully aware of the needs of cancer survivors - and I don't know what specifically is needed.
All I know is that I love and adore my life so much more now than I did pre-Hodgkin's. There are significant parts of my life that are extremely more fulfilling than ever before - particularly my love life. But there are other parts of my life that are lacking more than ever - particularly my career. And I wonder why. Is it normal?
I don't know. I think perhaps I need to keep noodling.
I've been noodling around with an idea for a sequel to "Cancerboy". It talks about what happens after I survived cancer.
I'm curious to see how many other people were affected by cancer survivorship like I am.
See, when you achieve the title of "survivor", life is amazing. You realize that you can do anything... and you can do everything. And you don't have to do anything you don't want to.
Cancer rewrote the rules of life for me. I lost my career drive and lost the understanding for needing and achieving goals. I found myself waiting to pounce on the next great experience - the next thing that would define my reason for being on this planet - without ever achieving anything.
This month, I honor the 4th anniversary of my Hodgkin's diagnosis. My life is nothing like it was four years ago - and definitely for the better. But there are those nagging thoughts about why I can't seem to develop and shoot for goals - I was always a goal-oriented person.
The world isn't yet fully aware of the needs of cancer survivors - and I don't know what specifically is needed.
All I know is that I love and adore my life so much more now than I did pre-Hodgkin's. There are significant parts of my life that are extremely more fulfilling than ever before - particularly my love life. But there are other parts of my life that are lacking more than ever - particularly my career. And I wonder why. Is it normal?
I don't know. I think perhaps I need to keep noodling.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
My mother is a saint. Not only that, but she taught my brothers and I some of the most important things in life. In my mind, respect is probably the top of that list.
This week, I was doing some reading... trying to understand my role on this planet a little more fully. As a result, by Friday, I felt like I had a pretty good grasp on things... and then it happened...
Despite working towards getting past my ego, I found myself feeling disrespected by a co-worker. I got angry. Pissed. But then I realized that I was the only one who was hurt by this. I was able to let it go.
Temporarily, it seems.
At darts that night, a guy on the other team started the whole disrespect thing, too. This time, it wasn't only against me, but also against some of my teammates.
And I realized that no matter how hard I work at getting past things like these, there are always assholes in the world - people who may care so little about themselves that they feel the need to impose their misery upon the rest of us.
Although this may come off like I'm whining, the purpose of this post goes beyond my stories. I just want to remind people how much better the world is - how much more fun life is - if we all treat each other with a little respect. Remember the golden rule? We're so much better than we give ourselves credit for. Let's start living that way, eh?
Peace and love, kids!
My mother is a saint. Not only that, but she taught my brothers and I some of the most important things in life. In my mind, respect is probably the top of that list.
This week, I was doing some reading... trying to understand my role on this planet a little more fully. As a result, by Friday, I felt like I had a pretty good grasp on things... and then it happened...
Despite working towards getting past my ego, I found myself feeling disrespected by a co-worker. I got angry. Pissed. But then I realized that I was the only one who was hurt by this. I was able to let it go.
Temporarily, it seems.
At darts that night, a guy on the other team started the whole disrespect thing, too. This time, it wasn't only against me, but also against some of my teammates.
And I realized that no matter how hard I work at getting past things like these, there are always assholes in the world - people who may care so little about themselves that they feel the need to impose their misery upon the rest of us.
Although this may come off like I'm whining, the purpose of this post goes beyond my stories. I just want to remind people how much better the world is - how much more fun life is - if we all treat each other with a little respect. Remember the golden rule? We're so much better than we give ourselves credit for. Let's start living that way, eh?
Peace and love, kids!
Monday, February 27, 2006
The Tide is Turning, Sylvester...
Well, it certainly seems like my life continues to change. With this job I'm at, I am constantly changing locations and hours. The days are getting longer, and there's that itchy feeling that spring is right around the corner.
I feel like things around me are refusing to stand still... that I can't plant my feet firmly on the ground. And that tells me that my life is in the middle of evolution.
I can't say that I'm comfortable with that feeling, but I do feel a sense of reuniting with an old friend - change.
See, with the struggles I've had over the past year or two... or should I say LIFE or two... I feel that the building blocks of my life we being broken down... only to be rebuilt - better, faster, stronger.
Nearly every day, I feel happy and sad. I feel strong and weak. And nearly every day, I feel that I'm on the brink of some brilliance, and I'm one step further away from the rut I was in for so long...
Well, it certainly seems like my life continues to change. With this job I'm at, I am constantly changing locations and hours. The days are getting longer, and there's that itchy feeling that spring is right around the corner.
I feel like things around me are refusing to stand still... that I can't plant my feet firmly on the ground. And that tells me that my life is in the middle of evolution.
I can't say that I'm comfortable with that feeling, but I do feel a sense of reuniting with an old friend - change.
See, with the struggles I've had over the past year or two... or should I say LIFE or two... I feel that the building blocks of my life we being broken down... only to be rebuilt - better, faster, stronger.
Nearly every day, I feel happy and sad. I feel strong and weak. And nearly every day, I feel that I'm on the brink of some brilliance, and I'm one step further away from the rut I was in for so long...
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Whatchoo been up to, Willis?!
Yeah, I know, it's been AGES since I last blogged. Whatever could have been keeping me from blogging?
Work.
Yep, I said it.
Work.
I have been working for nearly four weeks now, and I have finally gotten into some sort of routine, which allows me to do stuff besides work and sleep.
That said, how about them Olympics?
Is Chad Hedrick an ass, or what? Did Bode Miller suck because he wasn't wasted? The Austrians were! The US hockey team has once again shown how lame they can be. Granted, I love a lot of those players, but come on, our hockey program can't suck THAT bad!
Speaking of suck... what's up with the Canadian hockey team? Did they forget how to play, or did Janet Gretzky bet against them?
Lots of stuff has been going on.
Our tai chi has been kicked up a notch. Sheryl and I have quickly become favorites of our instructors. It's probably because they yell at me so much. Thankfully, Sheryl was the one they yelled at today!!
So the job I have isn't exactly what I'm looking for, but it's something for now. It's a step forward, and although I did a lot of bitching about it at first, it could be a lot worse. For instance, I could be forced to watch figure skating 40 hours a week... or even 20 minutes...
Hopefully, as I continue my search for a job from Nirvana, I will have the time to blog a bit more.
Until then, may your life be filled with all great things...
Yeah, I know, it's been AGES since I last blogged. Whatever could have been keeping me from blogging?
Work.
Yep, I said it.
Work.
I have been working for nearly four weeks now, and I have finally gotten into some sort of routine, which allows me to do stuff besides work and sleep.
That said, how about them Olympics?
Is Chad Hedrick an ass, or what? Did Bode Miller suck because he wasn't wasted? The Austrians were! The US hockey team has once again shown how lame they can be. Granted, I love a lot of those players, but come on, our hockey program can't suck THAT bad!
Speaking of suck... what's up with the Canadian hockey team? Did they forget how to play, or did Janet Gretzky bet against them?
Lots of stuff has been going on.
Our tai chi has been kicked up a notch. Sheryl and I have quickly become favorites of our instructors. It's probably because they yell at me so much. Thankfully, Sheryl was the one they yelled at today!!
So the job I have isn't exactly what I'm looking for, but it's something for now. It's a step forward, and although I did a lot of bitching about it at first, it could be a lot worse. For instance, I could be forced to watch figure skating 40 hours a week... or even 20 minutes...
Hopefully, as I continue my search for a job from Nirvana, I will have the time to blog a bit more.
Until then, may your life be filled with all great things...
Monday, January 30, 2006
Some haiku for you (so don't be blue... and tie your shoe)
Chew, chew, chew
Your eyes are so big
Stomach's not
#########
I smiled in your eyes
Reflecting my love for you
You smiled back in mine
########
Avoid disaster
Use your turn signal, you jerk
You won't see me rage
########
Tired, so sleepy
I must stop dreaming so hard
Eyes too tired to shut
#######
I write rhymes
Ain't pimpin' the words
Ho-etry
Chew, chew, chew
Your eyes are so big
Stomach's not
#########
I smiled in your eyes
Reflecting my love for you
You smiled back in mine
########
Avoid disaster
Use your turn signal, you jerk
You won't see me rage
########
Tired, so sleepy
I must stop dreaming so hard
Eyes too tired to shut
#######
I write rhymes
Ain't pimpin' the words
Ho-etry
Friday, January 27, 2006
Sweet Home Ferndale
When I worked in Northville, MI, I was making enough money to buy my own place. Finally, "a place for all my stuff"! I had dreamed about having a place to call home for ten years prior to that.
My uncle recommended a real estate agent, and although I wanted to stay on the "west side", the agent took me around the Royal Oak/Ferndale/Madison Heights area. I looked at 5-7 houses when I decided on the one I eventually bought.
I live on the border of Ferndale and Hazel Park... one block from I-75 and a few blocks from I-696. Although the location is close to the freeways, I don't really get bothered with much noise.
The neighborhood is quiet - there is a park on the corner from my house. The neighborhood is safe - cops patrol the area regularly - there is a park on the corner from my house.
Ferndale is an awesome place to live. Often treated like the red-headed stepchild of Royal Oak, it has sprouted into a respected community.
There are areas that one can tell it's been settled for quite a while, yet there are many areas of new development.
Ferndale's "main street" has been evolving constantly for the last 10-15 years. The "cross roads" of 9 Mile and Woodward are nearly complete in their renovation. This area, which lies 2 miles from my house has become culturally diversified and a great yuppie hangout.
There are standard restaurants such as Maria's Back Room, but there are many other great places to eat within a mile of the 9 Mile and Woodward intersection.
Ferndale even as its' own microbrewery - Woodward Avenue Brewery - and a national act drawing concert theater in the Magic Bag. Yup, you guessed it, they are both within crawling distance of 9 Mile and Woodward.
Every winter, the city of Ferndale hosts the winter freeze blues festival - and this year, for the super bowl, they will have 50 bands performing over the course of 10 days.
Yep, Ferndale has been a great place to live. With lots of trees and parks, the city is just like the city you remember growing up in. Only different.
When I worked in Northville, MI, I was making enough money to buy my own place. Finally, "a place for all my stuff"! I had dreamed about having a place to call home for ten years prior to that.
My uncle recommended a real estate agent, and although I wanted to stay on the "west side", the agent took me around the Royal Oak/Ferndale/Madison Heights area. I looked at 5-7 houses when I decided on the one I eventually bought.
I live on the border of Ferndale and Hazel Park... one block from I-75 and a few blocks from I-696. Although the location is close to the freeways, I don't really get bothered with much noise.
The neighborhood is quiet - there is a park on the corner from my house. The neighborhood is safe - cops patrol the area regularly - there is a park on the corner from my house.
Ferndale is an awesome place to live. Often treated like the red-headed stepchild of Royal Oak, it has sprouted into a respected community.
There are areas that one can tell it's been settled for quite a while, yet there are many areas of new development.
Ferndale's "main street" has been evolving constantly for the last 10-15 years. The "cross roads" of 9 Mile and Woodward are nearly complete in their renovation. This area, which lies 2 miles from my house has become culturally diversified and a great yuppie hangout.
There are standard restaurants such as Maria's Back Room, but there are many other great places to eat within a mile of the 9 Mile and Woodward intersection.
Ferndale even as its' own microbrewery - Woodward Avenue Brewery - and a national act drawing concert theater in the Magic Bag. Yup, you guessed it, they are both within crawling distance of 9 Mile and Woodward.
Every winter, the city of Ferndale hosts the winter freeze blues festival - and this year, for the super bowl, they will have 50 bands performing over the course of 10 days.
Yep, Ferndale has been a great place to live. With lots of trees and parks, the city is just like the city you remember growing up in. Only different.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Why Should You Hire Me?
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about dream jobs. I love writing, I love coordinating and planning, I love the technical side of things, and I love coming up with ideas.
I always wanted a job where I could put posters on my office walls, sit on the couch in my office, and throw my "idea ball" against the wall while trying to sort out a tasty problem.
So far, that hasn't happened.
But today, while I was out for a walk, I started thinking about how much I enjoy writing. I decided that this blog was the best way for me to practice and hone my chops.
So my first project is based on the concept of an interview (It's a concept because I'm not frigging getting any!!!)... more particularly the question: Why should we hire you?
I should be hired for a number of reasons:
First, I am extremely dedicated to my work. The more I love the work I do, the more dedicated I am. I'm hungry. Hungry to prove myself - to you and me.
I love to set goals for myself in the workplace. If I say that I can get a project done in two weeks, I bust my butt to get it done in a week and a half.
I believe in earning my money. With me, you don't pay for cigarette breaks. You don't pay for water cooler chit chat. You don't pay for extended lunches.
In return for that paycheck, you will receive an employee who masters tasks quickly and completely. In fact, if I have a fault, it's that I often refuse to ask for help. Not only do I want to try and figure things out for myself, but I also feel that bugging a manager is wasting corporate money.
If I do have a problem and have to see the manager, I try to have a couple of options on hand for how to resolve the problem. To me, that shows that I am working to be part of the solution - not part of the problem.
My dad was a workaholic. I saw it kill him at 48 years old. I will not be a workaholic. However, I will do the job to the best of my potential. You will get 100% of me. Nothing less.
Although I don't like to chit chat at work, I do have great communication skills. My personality is engaging, and I have no problem relating to people of any rank within the corporation. I believe in communication. I believe that in order for a company to be successful, they need successful communication - both internally and externally.
In all of my jobs, I have been successful in the communications realm. Most notably, when I worked in Germany. Once my co-workers saw how passionate I was about immersing myself in the work and their culture, they bent over backwards to help me out - whether the issue was work related or not.
In another job, I threw myself into a project and ended up stepping on someone's toes. She got really bitchy to me and often complained to my boss about me. I didn't realize what was going on until a co-worker mentioned it to me. As the toe-stepping was completely unintentional, I had to figure out a way to resolve the situation.
Although she had already tainted a lot of my co-workers with her complaints, my co-workers and boss chose not to step in between us. They knew that both of us were actually right, and we were getting things accomplished despite the situation.
One day I decided to take her out to lunch - to get away from the job and stand on neutral ground. Once we began talking about the issue in a non-threatening environment, we quickly and easily resolved the issue.
So, as you can see... I am passionate about my work and am willing to think creatively to resolve problems. I immerse myslf in my job and earn my pay. I have a lot of ideas and enjoy communicating them.
I would be a huge asset to your company - as I have for every other company I worked for. None of them wanted to get rid of me. Circumstances dictated my leaving in every case.
So the question now becomes: Why wouldn't you want to hire me?
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about dream jobs. I love writing, I love coordinating and planning, I love the technical side of things, and I love coming up with ideas.
I always wanted a job where I could put posters on my office walls, sit on the couch in my office, and throw my "idea ball" against the wall while trying to sort out a tasty problem.
So far, that hasn't happened.
But today, while I was out for a walk, I started thinking about how much I enjoy writing. I decided that this blog was the best way for me to practice and hone my chops.
So my first project is based on the concept of an interview (It's a concept because I'm not frigging getting any!!!)... more particularly the question: Why should we hire you?
I should be hired for a number of reasons:
First, I am extremely dedicated to my work. The more I love the work I do, the more dedicated I am. I'm hungry. Hungry to prove myself - to you and me.
I love to set goals for myself in the workplace. If I say that I can get a project done in two weeks, I bust my butt to get it done in a week and a half.
I believe in earning my money. With me, you don't pay for cigarette breaks. You don't pay for water cooler chit chat. You don't pay for extended lunches.
In return for that paycheck, you will receive an employee who masters tasks quickly and completely. In fact, if I have a fault, it's that I often refuse to ask for help. Not only do I want to try and figure things out for myself, but I also feel that bugging a manager is wasting corporate money.
If I do have a problem and have to see the manager, I try to have a couple of options on hand for how to resolve the problem. To me, that shows that I am working to be part of the solution - not part of the problem.
My dad was a workaholic. I saw it kill him at 48 years old. I will not be a workaholic. However, I will do the job to the best of my potential. You will get 100% of me. Nothing less.
Although I don't like to chit chat at work, I do have great communication skills. My personality is engaging, and I have no problem relating to people of any rank within the corporation. I believe in communication. I believe that in order for a company to be successful, they need successful communication - both internally and externally.
In all of my jobs, I have been successful in the communications realm. Most notably, when I worked in Germany. Once my co-workers saw how passionate I was about immersing myself in the work and their culture, they bent over backwards to help me out - whether the issue was work related or not.
In another job, I threw myself into a project and ended up stepping on someone's toes. She got really bitchy to me and often complained to my boss about me. I didn't realize what was going on until a co-worker mentioned it to me. As the toe-stepping was completely unintentional, I had to figure out a way to resolve the situation.
Although she had already tainted a lot of my co-workers with her complaints, my co-workers and boss chose not to step in between us. They knew that both of us were actually right, and we were getting things accomplished despite the situation.
One day I decided to take her out to lunch - to get away from the job and stand on neutral ground. Once we began talking about the issue in a non-threatening environment, we quickly and easily resolved the issue.
So, as you can see... I am passionate about my work and am willing to think creatively to resolve problems. I immerse myslf in my job and earn my pay. I have a lot of ideas and enjoy communicating them.
I would be a huge asset to your company - as I have for every other company I worked for. None of them wanted to get rid of me. Circumstances dictated my leaving in every case.
So the question now becomes: Why wouldn't you want to hire me?
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Old is new is old is new again...
With gadgetry changing so quickly these days, how do we put ourselves at the head of the curve?
I have recently been given some amazing information for newspaper/media jobs. After doing a little research, I realized how quickly things are changing in this world.
I was a communications major in college. There, I learned the rules for formatting and style. I learned that even though you were expected to use your imagination, you had to color inside the lines. That was in the late 1980's.
Nearly 20 years ago.
Today, I was reading about how to apply for a newspaper job. And there was still the formatting and style questions. The same ones that were asked 20 years ago.
So I began to wonder how newspapers could really stay in business. With CNN, MSN, the internet, PDAs and such, how many people actually read the newspaper these days?
As a result of this realization, I decided to blog instead. My blog has no rules, no lines to color inside, and no boxes to think within. I can be as creative as I want, I can say what I want, and I can potentially reach a larger audience than any newspaper.
Except I don't get paid for this, and for all I know, I have an audience of five people... or less.
So the question still remains... as a writer who doesn't like to color within the lines, and doesn't appreciate the sensationalism of Paris Hilton, or preying on people who just had something shitty happen to them... is there a future in writing in a print publication?
Maybe it's time to seriously start looking back into my old dream of travel writing...
With gadgetry changing so quickly these days, how do we put ourselves at the head of the curve?
I have recently been given some amazing information for newspaper/media jobs. After doing a little research, I realized how quickly things are changing in this world.
I was a communications major in college. There, I learned the rules for formatting and style. I learned that even though you were expected to use your imagination, you had to color inside the lines. That was in the late 1980's.
Nearly 20 years ago.
Today, I was reading about how to apply for a newspaper job. And there was still the formatting and style questions. The same ones that were asked 20 years ago.
So I began to wonder how newspapers could really stay in business. With CNN, MSN, the internet, PDAs and such, how many people actually read the newspaper these days?
As a result of this realization, I decided to blog instead. My blog has no rules, no lines to color inside, and no boxes to think within. I can be as creative as I want, I can say what I want, and I can potentially reach a larger audience than any newspaper.
Except I don't get paid for this, and for all I know, I have an audience of five people... or less.
So the question still remains... as a writer who doesn't like to color within the lines, and doesn't appreciate the sensationalism of Paris Hilton, or preying on people who just had something shitty happen to them... is there a future in writing in a print publication?
Maybe it's time to seriously start looking back into my old dream of travel writing...
Spiffy Smithing...
Tragically, magically
I saw it on TV
Drastically, spastically
I wondered, could it be?
Darkly, sparkly
The moon had turned blue
Mystically, statistically
I turned my thoughts to you
Purely, demurely
You burned in my mind
Lovely, above me
Magically inclined.
We are here
And we are now
It's just like this
And that is how
It will be
For time plus one
Because right now
This is done.
Tragically, magically
I saw it on TV
Drastically, spastically
I wondered, could it be?
Darkly, sparkly
The moon had turned blue
Mystically, statistically
I turned my thoughts to you
Purely, demurely
You burned in my mind
Lovely, above me
Magically inclined.
We are here
And we are now
It's just like this
And that is how
It will be
For time plus one
Because right now
This is done.
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