It has some faults, this site..

It matches me to people near me, which includes Durham, NC; I'm not interested in long-distance! I got 9 views and 1 msg from a nerdy guy. I decided to add to to "Who should message me:' "I want to spend more time outdoors, so would be nice if that interests you as well. I'm not into gamers." I added that because of the profiles I perused yesterday, a few said they're into gaming, which I can't stand. I need someone down to earth, not with his head in a fantasy world! I thought maybe this will distract me from my job search, but if some dates come of it, it may actually help other aspects in my life.

This should make for some interesting posts while it lasts

Per a friend's suggestion, I joined a dating site I hadn't heard of. It's popular in her college town. I look at guys in the area and recognize 3 from high school (I think).

Working on the weekend

Yesterday at work was quiet, no management around. I appreciated the less relaxed atmosphere but was almost bored. I called restaurants in Paris that have really expensive menus. Also called Italy with an interpreter (turns out waiter spoke great English) and was pleased to recognize some Italian.
I haven't been waking up early enough to eat breakfast. I should just bring some milk and cereal to work for the week (before they clean the fridge this Friday).
Shoot, I have to mail in a pre-payment and form for a doc's apt and totally wasn't counting on the post office not being open tomorrow; I may have to take it in person b/c it's required before noon the day before, Wed. Ugh. I don't have a job where I can take an hour break.
I enjoyed talking with a college friend last night. I had proposed we see a comedian but then I wasn't sure I'd enjoy it, and she didn't care to go. In the end, I could only think of getting sangria up the road at the Spanish restaurant. She appreciated that because in Madison, where she goes to grad school, it's beer everywhere, not so much wine. I wasn't paying attention (guess just as well) to a couple behind us who were having a fight. I noticed the woman had left, and that the guy was sitting by himself for a few. Then another couple was apparently arguing. Ha, in that sense, I could do without a boyfriend.

Called a friend the other night and self-imposed a sleepover, haha. I will be in Charlottesville for a concert, and whenever I drive an hour somewhere and would go home at night, I prefer to stay (except for a Saturday night when I want some nightlife). The pork and bourbon festival is next weekend; think some friends will go. There is another food fest on Sunday that I invited the Cville friend to.
Ok, gots to go, whoah!

DC trip with Catherine

I try to keep a journal when I'm travelling but find I don't often feel like writing about it in my blog after the fact; it's like, it's passed and time to do other things.
Because I didn't have WiFi yday at my cousin's, I wrote things in my travel journal, so will write from there. Now I know the wireless code is on the box!

Actually, I wrote in French while in DC, so will translate.

I slept very well at the hostel. While I am young, and even after, I think I prefer hostels because hotels are so solitary; here one can meet Swiss, Chinese, French..
At the Asian Festival, there were 3 stages for peformances. I took a lot of photos. I felt a bit lonely there, thinking, "Why didn't I ask a friend to join?" but then this feeling passed, partially because there was interesting bellydancing and nice costumes to see.
Catherine and I arranged to meet up at 6pm at the hostel. We decided to try a Mexican restaurant that specializes in Oaxacan cuisine. I love that word "Oaxaca." I want to go just for the name (and blue corn tortillas). I had printed a 10% discount coupon. We walked a lot to arrive there. There wasn't a free table when we got there so we had a drink at the bar downstairs. Mojito ;). The hostess came down shortly after to say we could sit upstairs. The menu consisted of mole for the most part. I had amarillito (yellow) and Catherine, negro, with chicken. Then we walked to go back. I saw "Matchbox," where I had brunch with a friend a few months ago. There I had beer from San Fran infused with watermelon juice!

On Sunday we had breakfast at the hostel, which I last did with my sister and dad 2 Septembers ago before I started this dismal job. I proposed we go to Pentagon City shopping mall, where I had been last time, but it didn't open til 11. In the meantime, we looked at magazines in Borders and sipped on mango tea (Catherine) and early grey caramel latte (me) from Caribou. I wish I had left my backpack at the hostel for a small fee since we were back in that area later. We went to the Chinese cultural center to take a free tour on Chinese and German immigrants. I wasn't as interested in the latter. The tour didn't keep my interest very well but Catherine liked it, which is good. I felt lucky we were there 1 of the 2 weekends in the year they give such tours :). After that, we split ways because she wanted to go to the Capitol again. I went to a food festival but took a long time to walk there and wasn't that impressed with it. Then I went to search a metro and walked more than necessary, going to Farragut North on red line when I really wanted blue line. Then not paying attention, listening to iPod, took orange instead of blue train, and had to back track! But I met a captain in the Navy working in the Pentagon who gave me his card for a letter of rec, if needed! (Parents' age). Then I drove back to Richmond and felt anxious, that I had to pack to stay at my cousin's that week (and also probably not looking forward to work).

Life is strange

I don't write that title in a depressed, brooding way. It's my way of articulating how it's funny people the same age have different time paths. Like I went to my best friend's house for dinner tonight. She was surprised I was early because I'm usually late; yeah, something I need to work on. I got this feeling, not a good self-esteem feeling, that, "What am I doing here? I usually don't have fun when I come over and end up feeling worse." She has a house and playful cute dog (same for husband, ha), garden with strawberries. I'm happy for her. Going back to the strange, is it because I chose a women's college that I didn't meet a guy sooner? I don't regret my experiences. I do regret the time since I've been back from China, that I didn't plan my career and still without direction. I hesitated to put the depressed status (in French) the other night:
"I no longer know what I want." I felt better that a fellow classmate wrote that she feels the same.
So seems everyone's getting prego, including a girl I briefly knew in college out West and my first year roommate! The latter, that's big news! I responded properly this time, unlike the text to my senior questioning if it were planned. Oops. Guess pregnant after 2 yrs of marriage is customary. More baby clothes for me to buy! I do enjoy baby clothes, just not so much the being inside. jk!

Career fair

Fair today hosted by VA Tech was alright. No bright prospects but then, I didn't expect much. Afterward, I went to a nice grocery store and bought eggplant empanadas which I ate in the car with a nice view of tanned, young construction workers with their shirts off. :) Yummy (from a distance).
Couldn't find a bra at the mall. I hate bra shopping. Got jeans, though, which is good since I went up a pant size, and some of my pants no longer fit. Bought some Clinique products, where I was persuaded to sign up for Macy's credit card so I could save $15.

After yoga class, ran into a neighbor who I used to babysit for. Got an update on the kids I used to babysit and gave an update on myself. I love running into and catching up with people.

Going to the midnight premiere of 3D Shrek.. it's at a theater 25 minutes away! I'm going because an acquaintance of mine is, and I don't think I've ever gone to a midnight premiere.

Wednesday

Last night after getting out of work an hour more than I'd like and going home to pick up stuff to spend the night's at a friends,' I went to a networking event across the river at a brewery with a nice patio with a view of the James. There I talked to a weird guy in his 50's or so with sepia-tinted aviator glasses. I recognized one guy who was there with his son, I presume, who seemed somewhat interested in me, maybe because I was close in age. Then my dad arrived, and I wondered if this would be beneficial or detrimental, my dad helping network for me. He started talking to a group of guys, at which point I went to grab some chicken wings to get my $5 worth. I was stopped by a somewhat strange-looking but friendly guy who was very helpful in trying to think of career paths I could pursue. We must have talked for 15 minutes. He gave me a company to contact, a client of his. I didn't give him my card. I remember his name, Cliff, and his company. By then the chicken wings were gone. My dad had passed out my resume (not even the latest version did I bring) b/c I had left the folder on the table. He decided to stick around and met some people whose cards he got for me. So, I guess I like and appreciate when my dad networks for me not in my presence!

Post- 1st apt viewing

I've yet to do an Excel sheet of expenses. Saw the vegan's apt yday. I definitely like the area (right near the newly renovated art museum) which is quiet yet not far off main drag. It was hard for me to visualize living there, however, because there were a lot of boxes. The little porch is nice with a view of an oak tree and parking behind. The pugs are cute. He's talkative, which is probably a better trait, since I haven't felt at ease completely with my quiet former roommates. I do think it would be better for me to live with a female, though. I was kinda annoyed at my friend who suggested I live with her husband's friend (who's currently living with them til they find a place). I wrote I'd consider it (keeping my options open) but then told her I don't want to spend a lot of time on this search, I'd almost rather find someone already in an apart needing a roommate, easier. She said she'd give my info to him in case so then I get a call from him on a day I was so pissed about my job. Then when I haven't called him back, she calls me saying he would like to know ASAP if I'm interested. I swear, sometimes she suggests things that would benefit her but she's not at all thinking of what it might be for the person. I left her a VM restating what I said before and that I probably want a female in the end.

I'm going to spend the night with a friend from HS to see what it's like to drive from downtown and get to work before 8am. Yesterday I got behind the damn school bus and just missed being late by a minute :(.

Room search

I just texted a former coworker of mine who has gone on to be a pastor, which is what her training is. I wanted some affirmation from her that I wasn't being unwise in looking for an apt downtown before finding a new job.

Let's weigh the pros and cons:
Pros:
1. Social life will be closer, not as much of a "trek," and perhaps I'll be more in the know about things happening
2. Sharing a place with someone will help me gain more perspective
3. I won't be around my parents and sis, who, as much as I love them, I feel it's time to "cut the chord" and grow a bit, fend on my own. I actually think it'd be better not to live with my sis because we are at a stage right now where I don't understand her, and her actions (or lack of) make me pessimistic. I told myself when I got back from China, I'd live in Richmond til she graduated. Well, she's about to graduate.
4. Optimistically, perhaps meeting more people will make way for networking to land a better job down the road

Cons:
1. It will be hard to see that money go. It may be 1/4 of my month's pay, and then I must assume since I'll be more social, I'll be spending more on such outings. (I would like a place where people can come over and relax, dinner and a beer/wine, movie)
2. LONGer drive, 5x a week. So if I compare that to 2 or 3x a week driving back to suburbs after going out, latter doesn't seem as bad. But no, it's summer, I've spent almost all my life in this house during summers, and it's time I "break free." I will aim to leave work before 4:45 everyday, which would get me downtown (apt) before 5:30 (don't know traffic situation yet). I have up to six hours then to have dinner, do social things.
So, more for gas money and more mileage on my car. Would be nice to carpool with someone but the fact that I am an employee "on the clock," I can't risk being late anymore. It's also not at all guaranteed I can leave work right at 4.
3. Can't rely on parents for support as they won't physically be there. Of course, I can drive there

Former coworker encouraged me I'm not being silly for wanting to move out, just to do research and plan budget.

I like sleuthing. I like to get an idea of a potential roomate. One guy stated he's vegan. Then I see his Fbook photo.. lots of tattoos and what I hope is not a nose ring. I can deal with tattoos but not so much gauged ears.
The other ad I replied to, they didn't say which gender. Now it seems they're both guys! oh well, I'll see.

Munday

I had to deal with concert tickets on sale today.. really dislike it. Felt malaise overall about job again and somewhat felt like leaving or putting in 2 weeks' notice and getting at job at Staples temporarily.

Finally got my mom's Tupperware back from a bake sale I volunteered for months ago.

The "Hot Mama" bread I gave my mom yesterday was good. When I came home from volunteer mtg, I chowed down not knowing she was asleep on the couch. Funny when that happens. She liked the table runner I gave her. It was only $1.50! No design, just powder blue.

Tomorrow and Wed are business casual days at work. I told myself, "3 days of waking up early, then 2 days of respite."

My thoughts feel disjointed. I want a plan in life. Is doing Myers Briggs test again going to help me figure that out? j/k.

Mother's Day

I didn't think yday but only this morning about making breakfast in bed for my mom. I feel I'm a little old for that. My sister has her friend over for a sleepover. I woke up around normal time as of late (~6:30) then went back to sleep.
I only have 3 vacation days.. I took 1 for French film festival. Another, I thought I'd go to DC for a book lecture but it was a friend's bday, so worked. The other 2, don't recall. They accrue over time. Would be nicer to start a new job with at least 1 week upfront so I may take a proper vacation somewhere. And with new job, no more of this every other weekend crap. I guess if it were a job involving travel (most likely local), I'd have to travel on weekends occasionally like a friend of mine does.

I want gumption, ha.

Went to Asian festival in its last hour last night. Recognized a guy from high school at the Cambodia food table. I had seen him at the post office a while back. I thought of saying hi but I think we had no classes together, don't know his name. My friend was there but we kept playing phone tag. She was with her 2(?) yr old niece, who I thought was cute. She turned to me and said something in Vietnamese, at which my friend reminded her I don't speak that. The acupuncturist I saw last year and who I emailed this week about my "mystery" bottle of pills from China called my name and encouraged me to buy some Chinese food. They were about to wrap up. On stage, there were Phillipino dance (I liked), Japanese traditional music, and kung fu performances. I hadn't seen kung fu since the show I saw in Beijing and briefly an instructor at the gym in China during an event.

Today is Russian (and former USSR) Victory Day. I may go to a celebration with Russian dance, song, and food.

Oh, completely forgot the reason I wanted to write here. I was surprised to come home to a medium-sized package from China yesterday. I knew a former colleague was sending me something but not that much nor priority! She spent almost $40 to send that weight and priority! :/ Part of what made it heavy is the aloe gel that comes with the milk tea that I requested; forgot that came with it, or I would have said that part's not necessary. She also threw in some snacks like "French cake," corn shaped gummy (not sure I like), and chicken feet (I will hide in my mom's gift as a surprise).

She sent a good variety of milk tea including some I didn't try 2 years ago: natural "relish," taro (glad she sent this, as it's not common here), wheat, "green," and one with the dried pearls. I feel so lucky. Dan from China wrote that he doesn't recommend eating it since China doesn't have a good record of food safety. Yes, well, there were things I didn't trust there but I kinda went with "ignorance is bliss." She spent so much money, and the fact it was sent from a fellow American, I feel I can trust it.

I so need to move out

Living with my sister.. I've just had enough. This is definitely where our 7 yr age difference is too much.

My friend's brother, who I could almost call my brother except I somewhat crushed on him, said hi to me on Fbook. I asked if he knew anyone needing a roommate, and he re: he does; in fact, two. It might be strange living with him. I'd prefer to live with a female, I think. Not sure it's the safest neighborhood. I went there 1x a few yrs ago.

I know a student who says she has a room free until late July, central location. That might be nice. Will see if I can see it soon.

Hump day

I actually dislike that term but it is Wednesday. Doesn't really apply in that I'm off today. I met with a workforce counselor on the Southside of the city. Felt like a spoiled, rich girl walking in there. Most people in there are out of work and probably don't have college degrees. The guy probably doesn't usually help people in my situation. He's going to make some contacts to put me in touch with.

I am tired because it's hot and I stayed up until 1:30am talking to Sasha on Skype. I love how it sounds like the person is right there. She thinks of studying in France this fall for a year or more-- I could visit her next spring! I forgot I told my Norwegian friend I'd like to visit him on such European trip but reminded me Norway's expensive everywhere ; /. I'd really be doing Norway (or at least, Trondheim) on a shoestring! There are 3 possible people to visit in Germany. I know 1 the most. Germany doesn't hold much appeal for me but it is such a big country, and by golly, those Krauts (derogatory?) speak excellent English!

Have to prioritize: I somewhat regretted from my year in France not making it to Spain, and Germany, a little. Looking at the map, one of the friend's cities isn't too far from Amsterdam, which I've heard is a must-see. I could be there when the tulips are in bloom! But now I think I'm talking a mucho expensive budget and timeline. I want to go to Southwestern France, particularly the city Biarritz, a coastal town. From there could make my way into Spanish Basque country. I would be staying at hostels, of course, when not with friends. And cheap meals, if not, going to the grocery store and eating in a parc, weather permitting. I could meet some awesome ppl along the way. Was talking to Sasha how travelling alone opens you up to meeting ppl; in a way, you're more approachable. I think I'd want to travel in Spain with someone, however. Amsterdam, too; think it'd be safer and more fun. Sasha would be in Grenoble, which is near Geneva, which I've already seen and don't care to again. Speaking of which, I should write the woman there I know. She was so hospitable. I met her in Czech Republic on a tour to Karlsbad. Oh, we shall see. I've decided even if I have to put some of this on my credit card, it would be worth it. One must take advantage of connections before the link is weakened by time.

I need a group sport

My suit pants that I finally got hemmed are a little tight (they were roomy when I bought them). UGh!

I am 25!!!

I had a pretty good bday: nice weather, spent with friends and family.

I could go into detail but am tired. I ended up going out last night. Ironically, I had poured myself (and parents) a glass of champagne with a strawberry, thinking, "If I'm staying in on a Saturday night (before my birthday), I may as well have champagne." I had a sip when I realized a friend wanted to take me out for my bday, which was nice. 3 guys (her friend, his brother and friend) joined us. I wanted an apple martini but they don't make that. I don't know what I ended up getting but it wasn't strong. The guys offered me bday shots. I said anything but tequila which he didn't understand. I said I was afraid it'd make me sick so didn't take it. Just as well. I got less than 6 hrs of sleep and was running late in my picnic preparation.

My grandma thought I was turning 26. I hope some things will be more (positively) advanced by then, like career path and a relationship.

I got my "China fix" today at "Arts in the Park". Talked to a painter from Hong Kong and bought a print to give a friend for her bday. Bought a photo from a guy who lives in China most of the time (his wife is Chinese). I didn't write down the name of the place where the photo is taken but it's a southern province that I didn't go to, maybe Yunnan.

Saturday before my 25th

I like that I get greetings from people in China before others due to the time difference. One was from this kid I never met.. I think he had seen me on myhappyplanet.com and contacted me on Skype. He's closer to my sister's age than mine. I like looking at his travel photos (in China). Another Chinese friend emailed me with the photo taken of me 2 years ago at Yellow Mtn (where "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" was filmed). I had cake for breakfast, a little one with purple icing. They asked the restaurant for a knife to cut with, and I was handed a chopping knife. So it's kinda scary, me wielding the knife. haha.

For some reason, I thought of Hohhot in Inner Mongolia today at work when I had finished most of my tasks. A Google image search produced one of a camel, which I thought of emailing as a random photo to my coworker, adding "This (of all photos) reminds me I need adventure in my life again."

Took a bike ride this evening. Was cutting it close in terms of it getting dark.

My first Saturday night free (I have Sunday morning off, unlike my schedule every other week from now on), and I am without plans. It's annoying to come up with people to contact who might have something going on.. there I go complaining. At least I make the effort, am persistent, right? :) That's my new word for my job search now that one significant part of my job is improved: persistence.

I feel so lucky right now that the evening shift is behind me. If fired, so be it. I will make do with lower-paying temp job if needed and buy a health insurance plan with a Health savings account (I know my options now after meeting w/ a professional).

There are amusing moments at work. Yesterday I was called a "womanizer" by my somewhat flamboyant male coworker. (Believe me, he's confused words worse) This was a result of him trying to jokingly insult me because I ran out of time to help him on something. Then today my older, raunchy South Asian coworker was introduced to Easy Mac thanks to me offering it. She said, "When my husband gets back from his month of work in Asia, this is what I will make him."