I have now been spoiled for the entire basketball season and I am going to be lost for the next month and half. My dad came across some UK tickets on Ebay around Thanksgiving time. It was a set of 2 tickets for the next 4 home games. Though they were not big name teams, its always worth going to watch a UK game in Rupp. That is for the right price. I am not one to pay over the top for tickets unless they are really worth it. I then still have my limit.
Thanks to those who accompanied me to the games. I had a blast and hope you did as well. If you find me outside Rupp, next Wednesday, please show me the way home. (Okay you wont next Wed but the following Sunday) Please show me the way home because those tickets will be way out of my price range.
GO CATS!
Wednesday, December 29, 2004
Monday, December 27, 2004
Back Home
Just wanted to let everyone know that I am back home safe and sound. The WK was still basically one lane and it wasnt always the best. And the fast lane was so messed up that you couldn't go fast enough to pass anyone at least not without a 4wd in my opinion.
Thankfully it only took me 4.5 hrs to make the trip. .5 hr extra isnt bad.
Safe Travels to all those left to head back.
Thankfully it only took me 4.5 hrs to make the trip. .5 hr extra isnt bad.
Safe Travels to all those left to head back.
Christmas Allergies
I really dislike whatever allergies I have around this time of the year. We believe it is live Christmas Trees. After the third evening this season spent with a Christmas Tree, I think it might have finally taken over. Please pray that I will not feel too bad tomorrow or at all this season.
Tomorrow I plan to start my journey back east. I spoke to my cousin who left today for the 'ville and it took them 5 hrs in a 4wd vehicle. The WK is apparently still really bad so I am trying to pump myself up for a 6 plus hour drive back tomorrow.
Tomorrow I plan to start my journey back east. I spoke to my cousin who left today for the 'ville and it took them 5 hrs in a 4wd vehicle. The WK is apparently still really bad so I am trying to pump myself up for a 6 plus hour drive back tomorrow.
Saturday, December 25, 2004
The Heartache
I know I left you all in midstream of my travels. Sorry about that. It was late and I figured the previous post was long enough.
So I hit the WK at Beaver Dam..oh my goodness...at first it was fair but not great, and then it turned worse. I was holding on and fighting the car ever inch of the way. Both lanes had been grated off smooth...smooth as glass almost. The snow was packed down tight and you could see the ruts from the day before. It wasnt chunky or broken up but smooth top with ruts. It was almost like glass. I kept telling myself I was dreaming. The car was shaking and bumping so bad.
At one time I was talking to my aunt and she asked me if I was cold I was almost in a chatter. It was the car shaking and bumping that bad.
I thought to myself on numerous occassions..."How far has it been since the Natcher, can I turn around and go back, how many more miles is it going to be this bad, should I keep on going?" I battled with myself for probably a good hr.
Three times I found myself sideways and having to catch myself and straighten back up. I saw cars in front of me get squirly as well. Luckily, I never hit anything, anyone, or got stuck.
We did stop once outside of Beaver Dam because a car had slid off and someone was helping them back out. I had my foot on the break and felt like I was still moving. I looked at the car and determined I wasnt. But then I put it in park and after a few minutes. I noticed that I was starting to slide down the road. Plus I saw a guy get out of his car and he about slid straight down the road. I knew at that pt it was really really slick out there.
It took me an 1.5 to get from Beaver Dam to Providence/Dawson Springs exit. Which encompassed approximately 40 miles of road. I have never wanted to go back home so bad and not worry about it. I started to think how crazy was I. Apparently pretty crazy.. Though I also thought that maybe I was just being a wimp, but I think a few others have confirmed that I wasnt just being a wimp.
So I finally made it to Paducah around 2 pm CST Christmas Eve. After Providence, the parkway was clear and I-24 was clear at least one lane. The first part was only one lane that went from the right to the left to the ctr and back to the right. Even the section of 2 lane did that as well. Driving along two lanes of traffic and next thing I know I am crossing the white center line going into the other lane with a car to my right following the same path to the shoulder. It was crazy.
The interestate in McCracken Co was clear and dry almost. I was going 70+ and so excited.
Well that was my journey. Now I have another day plus before I hit the roads again.
So I hit the WK at Beaver Dam..oh my goodness...at first it was fair but not great, and then it turned worse. I was holding on and fighting the car ever inch of the way. Both lanes had been grated off smooth...smooth as glass almost. The snow was packed down tight and you could see the ruts from the day before. It wasnt chunky or broken up but smooth top with ruts. It was almost like glass. I kept telling myself I was dreaming. The car was shaking and bumping so bad.
At one time I was talking to my aunt and she asked me if I was cold I was almost in a chatter. It was the car shaking and bumping that bad.
I thought to myself on numerous occassions..."How far has it been since the Natcher, can I turn around and go back, how many more miles is it going to be this bad, should I keep on going?" I battled with myself for probably a good hr.
Three times I found myself sideways and having to catch myself and straighten back up. I saw cars in front of me get squirly as well. Luckily, I never hit anything, anyone, or got stuck.
We did stop once outside of Beaver Dam because a car had slid off and someone was helping them back out. I had my foot on the break and felt like I was still moving. I looked at the car and determined I wasnt. But then I put it in park and after a few minutes. I noticed that I was starting to slide down the road. Plus I saw a guy get out of his car and he about slid straight down the road. I knew at that pt it was really really slick out there.
It took me an 1.5 to get from Beaver Dam to Providence/Dawson Springs exit. Which encompassed approximately 40 miles of road. I have never wanted to go back home so bad and not worry about it. I started to think how crazy was I. Apparently pretty crazy.. Though I also thought that maybe I was just being a wimp, but I think a few others have confirmed that I wasnt just being a wimp.
So I finally made it to Paducah around 2 pm CST Christmas Eve. After Providence, the parkway was clear and I-24 was clear at least one lane. The first part was only one lane that went from the right to the left to the ctr and back to the right. Even the section of 2 lane did that as well. Driving along two lanes of traffic and next thing I know I am crossing the white center line going into the other lane with a car to my right following the same path to the shoulder. It was crazy.
The interestate in McCracken Co was clear and dry almost. I was going 70+ and so excited.
Well that was my journey. Now I have another day plus before I hit the roads again.
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas Everyone!
May your day be merry and bright. The Lord has come to save us, Let us rejoice and be glad.
I hope everyone has made it safely to their family. If the weather has kept you away, don't be sad but rejoice that you are safe and sound, wherever you may be.
God Bless Each of you.
May your day be merry and bright. The Lord has come to save us, Let us rejoice and be glad.
I hope everyone has made it safely to their family. If the weather has kept you away, don't be sad but rejoice that you are safe and sound, wherever you may be.
God Bless Each of you.
Holiday Travels Take 3
First of all, I am safely at my parents house in Paducah. I arrived around 2 pm CST yesterday. (Merry Christmas)
This journey took about 26 hours to complete. (It was not all spent on the road so don't worry) Thanks to N for agreeing to let me follow him from Lexington to the Natcher PKWY off of the WK PKWY. As we left town on Thursday afternoon, the interestate to Paducah was closed. But I figured I would brave the roads to the exit to Owensboro and then make a call from there, to continue or make a pitstop.
The roads to the WK where passable at least one lane and went fairly smoothly. The WK was definitely down to mostly one lane and a lot more snow covered and I dont think had been touched by the plows. It was nearly 4 CST when we hit the Natcher and darkness was starting to fall upon us. A rough calculation of at least another 3 hrs ahead of me by myself, sent me on up to Owensboro to hang out with my friend Rachel and her mom.
The Natcher wasnt too bad minus being only one lane and a red Chrsyler Lebaron driving 25 miles per hr and no way to pass. They had only scrapped one lane the other lane still had a foot plus of snow.
We arrived safely in the 'Boro around 5 CST and then the world became small again (Story to follow in another post)
After a nice nights sleep, some Nertz and speed, it was back on the road. After a slight adventure getting out of the street, I made it successfully back to the Natcher. It was now double clean though the outside lane was less traveled than the inside. It went smoothly and pretty much on target.
The heartache .....
This journey took about 26 hours to complete. (It was not all spent on the road so don't worry) Thanks to N for agreeing to let me follow him from Lexington to the Natcher PKWY off of the WK PKWY. As we left town on Thursday afternoon, the interestate to Paducah was closed. But I figured I would brave the roads to the exit to Owensboro and then make a call from there, to continue or make a pitstop.
The roads to the WK where passable at least one lane and went fairly smoothly. The WK was definitely down to mostly one lane and a lot more snow covered and I dont think had been touched by the plows. It was nearly 4 CST when we hit the Natcher and darkness was starting to fall upon us. A rough calculation of at least another 3 hrs ahead of me by myself, sent me on up to Owensboro to hang out with my friend Rachel and her mom.
The Natcher wasnt too bad minus being only one lane and a red Chrsyler Lebaron driving 25 miles per hr and no way to pass. They had only scrapped one lane the other lane still had a foot plus of snow.
We arrived safely in the 'Boro around 5 CST and then the world became small again (Story to follow in another post)
After a nice nights sleep, some Nertz and speed, it was back on the road. After a slight adventure getting out of the street, I made it successfully back to the Natcher. It was now double clean though the outside lane was less traveled than the inside. It went smoothly and pretty much on target.
The heartache .....
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
Storm 2004
Wow what a storm the state of Kentucky is getting hit with, at least parts of the state. Personally I have been in the rain slicked areas of central KY all day. Luckily, I took today off work to run errands prior to going home tomorrow.
But as I look towards my drive tomorrow, I see alot of obstacles in the way and the worst thing is I am not sure where the obstacles will be starting. Granted tonights location and tomorrow morning's locations are going to be totally different.
What I do know is that Paducah has already been hit by a foot of snow and its still coming down. The worst thing is that the wind is blowing so bad that its drifting really bad.
Talked to a friend who is in Owensboro at the moment and she says the crews there have gone in for the night because the plowing is helping because of the drifts. She made it to almost the Natcher before running into major trouble. Though she had sleet and rain a good bit of the first half of her journey.
For those who are safe and sound with their family, glad you took off early and made it there safely. For those of us still to leave, I pray for your safety, patience, and mindset when its all said and done.
Though the weather is frightful, I am glad that I stayed around today and this evening. The journey home will be slow but worth it. Though I was really hoping that Thanksgiving got the travel blues out of the system, but apparently not, tomorrow is going to be quite the trip.
Talk to you next from the foot plus of snow.
But as I look towards my drive tomorrow, I see alot of obstacles in the way and the worst thing is I am not sure where the obstacles will be starting. Granted tonights location and tomorrow morning's locations are going to be totally different.
What I do know is that Paducah has already been hit by a foot of snow and its still coming down. The worst thing is that the wind is blowing so bad that its drifting really bad.
Talked to a friend who is in Owensboro at the moment and she says the crews there have gone in for the night because the plowing is helping because of the drifts. She made it to almost the Natcher before running into major trouble. Though she had sleet and rain a good bit of the first half of her journey.
For those who are safe and sound with their family, glad you took off early and made it there safely. For those of us still to leave, I pray for your safety, patience, and mindset when its all said and done.
Though the weather is frightful, I am glad that I stayed around today and this evening. The journey home will be slow but worth it. Though I was really hoping that Thanksgiving got the travel blues out of the system, but apparently not, tomorrow is going to be quite the trip.
Talk to you next from the foot plus of snow.
Car Wash!
I go out this morning to pay my car registration and licensing. Afterwards, I decided that it would be nice to wash the car prior to putting the new license plate on.
Arrived at the usual car wash in front of Wal-mart. Nothing abnormal there, until I put in the money and push "Pre-Wash Soak". The water is dribbling out of the spout, so I try the "High Pressure Rinse". Still just a dribble. Well by now I have already put $2 in the machine and am not interested in wasting it. I figure that all the guns cant be that bad, so lets see if the foaming brush works and wash the car and then move. After soaping the car down, I drive to another slot and put $1.5 in. Again no water is coming out, but the one next to me the guy was having luck. So I rinsed my car the best I could with the dribble and when he left switched spots.
YEEPEE....Initial success. Get the car rinsed off but it still has a few dirty spots. So I get the foaming brush out and brush down a few spots. Turn on the "High Pressure Rinse". Maybe 10 secs of high pressure and it dies again. By this point, I am rather frustrated so once the time was over. I drove down the street to another car wash and successfully rinsed the rest of the car off.
Hopefully nobody noticed me driving down the street with soap on my car :-(
Now Big Blue is cleaned and decked out with a new license plate, supporting my alma mater "GEORGETOWN COLLEGE". It looks sweet, now I just need to decide what I want to put on the front end.
Arrived at the usual car wash in front of Wal-mart. Nothing abnormal there, until I put in the money and push "Pre-Wash Soak". The water is dribbling out of the spout, so I try the "High Pressure Rinse". Still just a dribble. Well by now I have already put $2 in the machine and am not interested in wasting it. I figure that all the guns cant be that bad, so lets see if the foaming brush works and wash the car and then move. After soaping the car down, I drive to another slot and put $1.5 in. Again no water is coming out, but the one next to me the guy was having luck. So I rinsed my car the best I could with the dribble and when he left switched spots.
YEEPEE....Initial success. Get the car rinsed off but it still has a few dirty spots. So I get the foaming brush out and brush down a few spots. Turn on the "High Pressure Rinse". Maybe 10 secs of high pressure and it dies again. By this point, I am rather frustrated so once the time was over. I drove down the street to another car wash and successfully rinsed the rest of the car off.
Hopefully nobody noticed me driving down the street with soap on my car :-(
Now Big Blue is cleaned and decked out with a new license plate, supporting my alma mater "GEORGETOWN COLLEGE". It looks sweet, now I just need to decide what I want to put on the front end.
Sunday, December 12, 2004
Weekend
What a Weekend........Awesome, Great, Okay, and Bad
Friday Night:
I made dark chocolate chip cookies for the first time. To my knowledge it is the first time in which I have made cookies from scratch by myself. I am sure I have helped my mother in the past but that doesn't count. They turned out great and I hopefully making a lot more cookies before the night is over.
My friends and I have started a Christmas jigsaw puzzle as well. I am trying to avoid the living room because I don't want to get trapped working on it.
Saturday:
GO CATS!
As you all know from the blogs, it was my birthday on Saturday. Yikes another year older. It was for the most part a wonderful birthday.
Saturday evening, I had a birthday celebration. 9 friends came out for dinner at Johnny Carino's and then bowling afterwards. I had a great time. Thanks to all who made my birthday wonderful.
Though the birthday did not come without the bad, as I was headed to Carinos early to get our reservation in, I was sitting at a red light when thump went my car. The only thing I could think was "No this just didn't happen and not on this particular day of my life." Unfortunately, it had happened, though fortunately, it was not a hard hit and the damage looks to be minor and it wasn't my fault. We will see the pain that I have to go through to get it fixed though. My poor car might as well have a full paint job at the rate its going because soon it wont have any original paint on it :-(
The rest of the evening was fabulous and we hadn't been seated by the time that I gotten there, though the entire party was there awaiting dressed in their favorite country attire. Some did a lot better dressing than others, though everyone did put some thought into the evening which is all that matters.
Sunday:
With the two fun evenings and little sleep, I did a lot of sleeping with work and church squeezed in the middle. Work is another story. Apparently, my password expired at work and my account was locked solid. Not good when you have a deploy to complete nor when the pager goes off at 12:30 am and you have to wake someone else up. Though we got it all done and I finally got my account unlocked so hopefully noone will have to be awaken tonight.
Friday Night:
I made dark chocolate chip cookies for the first time. To my knowledge it is the first time in which I have made cookies from scratch by myself. I am sure I have helped my mother in the past but that doesn't count. They turned out great and I hopefully making a lot more cookies before the night is over.
My friends and I have started a Christmas jigsaw puzzle as well. I am trying to avoid the living room because I don't want to get trapped working on it.
Saturday:
GO CATS!
As you all know from the blogs, it was my birthday on Saturday. Yikes another year older. It was for the most part a wonderful birthday.
Saturday evening, I had a birthday celebration. 9 friends came out for dinner at Johnny Carino's and then bowling afterwards. I had a great time. Thanks to all who made my birthday wonderful.
Though the birthday did not come without the bad, as I was headed to Carinos early to get our reservation in, I was sitting at a red light when thump went my car. The only thing I could think was "No this just didn't happen and not on this particular day of my life." Unfortunately, it had happened, though fortunately, it was not a hard hit and the damage looks to be minor and it wasn't my fault. We will see the pain that I have to go through to get it fixed though. My poor car might as well have a full paint job at the rate its going because soon it wont have any original paint on it :-(
The rest of the evening was fabulous and we hadn't been seated by the time that I gotten there, though the entire party was there awaiting dressed in their favorite country attire. Some did a lot better dressing than others, though everyone did put some thought into the evening which is all that matters.
Sunday:
With the two fun evenings and little sleep, I did a lot of sleeping with work and church squeezed in the middle. Work is another story. Apparently, my password expired at work and my account was locked solid. Not good when you have a deploy to complete nor when the pager goes off at 12:30 am and you have to wake someone else up. Though we got it all done and I finally got my account unlocked so hopefully noone will have to be awaken tonight.
Saturday, December 11, 2004
Friday, December 03, 2004
Exercise
Okay so I have been the biggest slacker since I started this new job. Though I wasn't doing the best prior to the new job, at least I was walking about 4 times a week during lunch with some officemates at my last job. It wasn't speed walking or anything like that, but it is amazing the difference that it does make.
Now I ride, sit, ride, sit, and sleep. Definitely nothing in that routine that burns too many calories. So I have been debating on how to fix this. I am always so tired or it is way too late when I do finally get home that getting dressed and going down to the gym in the apt complex seems to be too much energy. My parents have an XL Glider, which they purchased a few years ago. It has no motors and can be packed up and put to the side fairly easy taking up little room. I kept debating about ordering one but they are fairly expensive. While I was home over the holidays, K's Merchandise had them on sale for the cheapest price that we had ever seen. I decided that was a sign for me to get one and start working out again.
I put it together last Sunday evening though tonight was the first night that I actually got on it to work out any. It was nice to get some exercise for a change. Hopefully, I can keep doing this several times a week and loose the 20 lbs that I have gained in the last 5 months.
By the way, though you may not think the little walking at lunch or on breaks does any good. I am here to tell you it definitely over times makes a big difference. You don't have to do anything major just get some nice brief exercise and your body will be appreciative.
Now I ride, sit, ride, sit, and sleep. Definitely nothing in that routine that burns too many calories. So I have been debating on how to fix this. I am always so tired or it is way too late when I do finally get home that getting dressed and going down to the gym in the apt complex seems to be too much energy. My parents have an XL Glider, which they purchased a few years ago. It has no motors and can be packed up and put to the side fairly easy taking up little room. I kept debating about ordering one but they are fairly expensive. While I was home over the holidays, K's Merchandise had them on sale for the cheapest price that we had ever seen. I decided that was a sign for me to get one and start working out again.
I put it together last Sunday evening though tonight was the first night that I actually got on it to work out any. It was nice to get some exercise for a change. Hopefully, I can keep doing this several times a week and loose the 20 lbs that I have gained in the last 5 months.
By the way, though you may not think the little walking at lunch or on breaks does any good. I am here to tell you it definitely over times makes a big difference. You don't have to do anything major just get some nice brief exercise and your body will be appreciative.
UK Game and Randomness!
As I stated on Ash's blog, my first Ebay purchase occurred this past weekend though I am not sure it was my exact purchase since I still dont have an ebay login but I was apart of the bidding process. This process ended up winning me tickets to the upcoming (and now past) UK ballgames, for slightly below cost.
A college friend of mine and current co-worker of mine joined me Tuesday night to watch the UK vs Tennesse Tech game. After work, we got in the car to head towards Lexington in one of the slowest by not the slowest ride down 64. People cant drive in the rain (side note). Because of the slow traffic, we were running slightly behind. I decided that I would take S to Sawyers downtown. She had never been there and I quite enjoy it.
Nothing random for me occurred at Sawyers though S was quite puzzled that everyone there seemed to know me. Its because the sport car club goes down there once a month for our meetings and one of the members is the owner of the establishment. It is fun going into a restaurant where the people recognize and know who you are as well as what you are going to order. Darn people of reputation and readability :-)
Because of the drive and dinner, we ended up a bit late to the game, but successfully found our seats and started watching the ballgame. Oblivous to those around me, I watched the majority of the first half, when I turned to my left. There were several open seats btwn me and the next individual in the row. The first glance caught me by suprise and I had to take a second look to verify the first glances sitings. Sure enough sitting to the left of me was K. K worked at the last company though not directly with me. He and M (my American officemate) were good friends and K usually joined M, others, and I for lunch almost weekly. K also had not realized that I had come in and was sitting next to him and his father. It was fun times.
The game: Yikes that was a close game for the first half. And they still have not learned the art of blocking out yet. This seems to be a continual problem for Tubby Smith's teams in my opinion. I dont know how many times I saw players basically underneath the basic trying to get rebounds. Trust me that doesnt work for getting rebounds just the ball after its count on the scoreboard. Players these days rely way too much on there jumping ability and arm stretch to get the rebounds. Its not going to work against better teams. The true first test of the season comes this Sat at noon.
Afte the game, S and I headed back to the car, trying to stay dry and warm. Luckily it wasnt really raining when we left like it was on our way to the game. We briskly walked towards our car through the crowd. As we crossed through a parking lot in attempts to shorten our route, we walked by two individuals. The young man looked at us and we looked at him and not until we passed one another did we realize that we knew one another. So we stopped to say a friendly hello to J and finished our journey to the car.
It was an overall fun and exciting evening and I think one of the first times that I have ever gone to a UK game and actually ran into someone that I knew. I have always known of others who are in attendance but never see them. It seems quite odd considering the number of people there. I am half way guaranted to see K again as his father has season tickets just a few seats down from where my tickets are for the next few games.
Go Cats!
Additional: When I sit down in my seat, I check my phone to make sure the fam had not called and I had a text msg. Not sure who it was from I checked and Ash had messaged me, telling me if I stayed up to watch the game that I might see her. I replied to say Im here as well so I wont see ya on the tv though maybe on the big screen. I never saw her :-( . Maybe next time Ash :-)
A college friend of mine and current co-worker of mine joined me Tuesday night to watch the UK vs Tennesse Tech game. After work, we got in the car to head towards Lexington in one of the slowest by not the slowest ride down 64. People cant drive in the rain (side note). Because of the slow traffic, we were running slightly behind. I decided that I would take S to Sawyers downtown. She had never been there and I quite enjoy it.
Nothing random for me occurred at Sawyers though S was quite puzzled that everyone there seemed to know me. Its because the sport car club goes down there once a month for our meetings and one of the members is the owner of the establishment. It is fun going into a restaurant where the people recognize and know who you are as well as what you are going to order. Darn people of reputation and readability :-)
Because of the drive and dinner, we ended up a bit late to the game, but successfully found our seats and started watching the ballgame. Oblivous to those around me, I watched the majority of the first half, when I turned to my left. There were several open seats btwn me and the next individual in the row. The first glance caught me by suprise and I had to take a second look to verify the first glances sitings. Sure enough sitting to the left of me was K. K worked at the last company though not directly with me. He and M (my American officemate) were good friends and K usually joined M, others, and I for lunch almost weekly. K also had not realized that I had come in and was sitting next to him and his father. It was fun times.
The game: Yikes that was a close game for the first half. And they still have not learned the art of blocking out yet. This seems to be a continual problem for Tubby Smith's teams in my opinion. I dont know how many times I saw players basically underneath the basic trying to get rebounds. Trust me that doesnt work for getting rebounds just the ball after its count on the scoreboard. Players these days rely way too much on there jumping ability and arm stretch to get the rebounds. Its not going to work against better teams. The true first test of the season comes this Sat at noon.
Afte the game, S and I headed back to the car, trying to stay dry and warm. Luckily it wasnt really raining when we left like it was on our way to the game. We briskly walked towards our car through the crowd. As we crossed through a parking lot in attempts to shorten our route, we walked by two individuals. The young man looked at us and we looked at him and not until we passed one another did we realize that we knew one another. So we stopped to say a friendly hello to J and finished our journey to the car.
It was an overall fun and exciting evening and I think one of the first times that I have ever gone to a UK game and actually ran into someone that I knew. I have always known of others who are in attendance but never see them. It seems quite odd considering the number of people there. I am half way guaranted to see K again as his father has season tickets just a few seats down from where my tickets are for the next few games.
Go Cats!
Additional: When I sit down in my seat, I check my phone to make sure the fam had not called and I had a text msg. Not sure who it was from I checked and Ash had messaged me, telling me if I stayed up to watch the game that I might see her. I replied to say Im here as well so I wont see ya on the tv though maybe on the big screen. I never saw her :-( . Maybe next time Ash :-)
Sunday, November 28, 2004
Traffic Take Two
Okay so I just thought that the trip to Paducah was long. It was nothing like this evening's trip back from Paducah. Around 4 pm CST, I headed out and back to my humble abode. Though it was a rainy and soon to be dark ride back to the bluegrass, it really was uneventful at least I thought. When I hit I-65, I debated whether or not to go the BG or on up to Louisville. Considering that the BG would have taken me along some wide backroads through Versailles and Midway, I decided it was safer to go through Louisville. Though the change in scenery would have been nice, a good break from my day to day driving of I-64. Plus there was this person (known as my father) in my head telling me that Louisville route would be safer, though I would prefer you wait til morning. So I headed up and through the outskirts of Louisville, half and hour from home and that is when trouble hit.
Luckily for me, I had not left a few mere minutes earlier because about 1 mile pass Graefenburg/Lawerenceburg exit everything came to a complete halt. Not really knowing what was happening except that traffic was not moving at all. After a few minutes of no movement, the car was put into park. Thinking that something might happen soon, I waited a few more minutes and still no movement. So I decided to turn the lights out and the car off. Four state troopers came down the side with there lights flashing. I few more minutes went by and I decided I needed to find something to do. So I got out and found the cross-stitch that I was working on in the trunk and started working on it using the overhead light. Half and hour had passed and still no movement. I could see the lights from an ambulance or firetruck flickering off of a semi up ahead. I figured the wreck was not too far ahead of me. I called a friend to say hello and continued work on my cross-stitch. Every now and then I turned the car on to warm up and make sure the battery wouldnt run down with the light on. Minutes upon minutes passed by....a half an hour later or so, a flatbed tow truck drove by. I figured that was definitely a good sign that the accident was starting to be cleaned up. Another half an hour went by, as I talked to my friend and worked on my cross-stitch. Then all of a sudden the guy in front of me turned on his lights and put on his brakes. First in a bit of shock and disbelief that we might actually get to move again, I put away the cross-stitch and started up the car.
Next thing, I knew we were going 30, then 40, then 50, and soon about 60. It only took a few minutes, maybe 2.5 miles until I was driving through a bunch of broken glass. It surely didnt excite me to drive through all that glass, though I was glad to be moving again. And extremely glad that my bladder was still making it. Since the last stop was at Beaver Dam and I got a drink to go at that time. Yikes... that could have been really bad, especially being alone in the dark stuck. Luckily, I made it home safe and sound and it actually wasnt raining when I got home. So I was able to unpack the majority of my car without it getting wet again.
This adventure took 5.5 hrs to complete. I think this is two of the longer trips that I have had in my many journeys back and forth. Definitely, the first trip to have problems going both ways.
Luckily for me, I had not left a few mere minutes earlier because about 1 mile pass Graefenburg/Lawerenceburg exit everything came to a complete halt. Not really knowing what was happening except that traffic was not moving at all. After a few minutes of no movement, the car was put into park. Thinking that something might happen soon, I waited a few more minutes and still no movement. So I decided to turn the lights out and the car off. Four state troopers came down the side with there lights flashing. I few more minutes went by and I decided I needed to find something to do. So I got out and found the cross-stitch that I was working on in the trunk and started working on it using the overhead light. Half and hour had passed and still no movement. I could see the lights from an ambulance or firetruck flickering off of a semi up ahead. I figured the wreck was not too far ahead of me. I called a friend to say hello and continued work on my cross-stitch. Every now and then I turned the car on to warm up and make sure the battery wouldnt run down with the light on. Minutes upon minutes passed by....a half an hour later or so, a flatbed tow truck drove by. I figured that was definitely a good sign that the accident was starting to be cleaned up. Another half an hour went by, as I talked to my friend and worked on my cross-stitch. Then all of a sudden the guy in front of me turned on his lights and put on his brakes. First in a bit of shock and disbelief that we might actually get to move again, I put away the cross-stitch and started up the car.
Next thing, I knew we were going 30, then 40, then 50, and soon about 60. It only took a few minutes, maybe 2.5 miles until I was driving through a bunch of broken glass. It surely didnt excite me to drive through all that glass, though I was glad to be moving again. And extremely glad that my bladder was still making it. Since the last stop was at Beaver Dam and I got a drink to go at that time. Yikes... that could have been really bad, especially being alone in the dark stuck. Luckily, I made it home safe and sound and it actually wasnt raining when I got home. So I was able to unpack the majority of my car without it getting wet again.
This adventure took 5.5 hrs to complete. I think this is two of the longer trips that I have had in my many journeys back and forth. Definitely, the first trip to have problems going both ways.
Thursday, November 25, 2004
Happy Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving to all! I hope everyone has a safe and blessed holiday weekend.
Addition #1 4:48 pm CST:
Two Thanksgiving Dinners in one day...how do I keep on doing it? I am ready to explode. I had one decent size plate of food at my aunts house around 1 pm CST and in less than a half and hr I will be eating a second plate of food with my dad's family here at my parents. This plate will be small and hope that there will be leftovers for me to eat the rest of the weekend.
Though when I was younger, I know I could eat a lot more food at both places and never feel so full. I guess its a good thing that we cant eat as much as we get older because we get sedentary and dont work all the food off.
Hope everyone is having a wonderful time with their family.
Addition #1 4:48 pm CST:
Two Thanksgiving Dinners in one day...how do I keep on doing it? I am ready to explode. I had one decent size plate of food at my aunts house around 1 pm CST and in less than a half and hr I will be eating a second plate of food with my dad's family here at my parents. This plate will be small and hope that there will be leftovers for me to eat the rest of the weekend.
Though when I was younger, I know I could eat a lot more food at both places and never feel so full. I guess its a good thing that we cant eat as much as we get older because we get sedentary and dont work all the food off.
Hope everyone is having a wonderful time with their family.
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Thanksgiving Travels
Jeff I hate to say its not always big cities that have traffic issues though most of the time you only get the troubles you had around bigger cities.
So now that I work in Louisville, it means that it only takes a bit over 3 hrs to get from work to my parents in Paducah because I am already an hour closer than usual.
So today I head out of the big city of Louisville around 1 pm Eastern expecting to hit Paducah around 3 pm Central TIme. All was going smoothly until I hit the rest stop outside of Beaver Dam. Next thing I know there is only one way to go upon reaching the Beaver Dam exit. Which is down the exit ramp and into Beaver Dam. :-(
It was then off on an adventure with no map. The first part of the detour was not too bad because I was following all the traffic. Took a right on 231 and headed towards town. Hung a left onto 62 and figured if all else fails, I can just follow 62 all the way home though it might be quite a lengthy ride. Then I hit Central City and a four lane rd and all of a sudden everyone dispersed and I was not seeing any clear way to go. I kept following the normal route and next thiing I know I am on 189. Okay now I am truely confused. Luckily at that time, I was on the phone with my cousin making sure he wasnt headed this direction to warn him about the situation. He was already in Paducah but was willing to help me find out where the heck I was.
Apparently 62 turns into 189 and then runs back into 62. I finally found 62 again and which ran into the Pennyrile just south of the WK. Woo hoo I was back on the main rd and headed home. Unfortunately that put me an hour behind and much need of a restroom. Should have made that full stop outside Beaver Dam but who would have known.
So 4 hrs later I arrived at home. Guess it was a good thing I left earlier that I had anticipated.
By the way apparently there was a double accident outside of Central City and WK was closed from Beaver Dam til the exit past Central City.
So now that I work in Louisville, it means that it only takes a bit over 3 hrs to get from work to my parents in Paducah because I am already an hour closer than usual.
So today I head out of the big city of Louisville around 1 pm Eastern expecting to hit Paducah around 3 pm Central TIme. All was going smoothly until I hit the rest stop outside of Beaver Dam. Next thing I know there is only one way to go upon reaching the Beaver Dam exit. Which is down the exit ramp and into Beaver Dam. :-(
It was then off on an adventure with no map. The first part of the detour was not too bad because I was following all the traffic. Took a right on 231 and headed towards town. Hung a left onto 62 and figured if all else fails, I can just follow 62 all the way home though it might be quite a lengthy ride. Then I hit Central City and a four lane rd and all of a sudden everyone dispersed and I was not seeing any clear way to go. I kept following the normal route and next thiing I know I am on 189. Okay now I am truely confused. Luckily at that time, I was on the phone with my cousin making sure he wasnt headed this direction to warn him about the situation. He was already in Paducah but was willing to help me find out where the heck I was.
Apparently 62 turns into 189 and then runs back into 62. I finally found 62 again and which ran into the Pennyrile just south of the WK. Woo hoo I was back on the main rd and headed home. Unfortunately that put me an hour behind and much need of a restroom. Should have made that full stop outside Beaver Dam but who would have known.
So 4 hrs later I arrived at home. Guess it was a good thing I left earlier that I had anticipated.
By the way apparently there was a double accident outside of Central City and WK was closed from Beaver Dam til the exit past Central City.
Tuesday, November 23, 2004
Christmas Decorations
Early I stated that I finally made the big purchase of a Christmas tree. This past weekend I put my first personal Christmas tree up with the help of my parents. First we had to rearrange the living room to find place for the tree and I actually like the new layout of the living room.
So I know that you are all screaming because I have put my Christmas decorations out prior to Thanksgiving. If you really want to know the truth, I totally agree. So you ask why did I put it up. Here are the reasons:
1. Needed help rearranging the apt and getting the tree out and up and my parents were here to help.
2. My mom is looking for an artificial tree herself and wanted to see what mine looked like once it was put up.
3. My mom also wants me to stay this coming weekend at home to help her put there Christmas decorations up and if mine wasnt up I was planning on coming back early to put it up.
So my Christmas Tree and decorations are up at least what parts of them are here. But I have not had the Christmas Tree lights on yet and havent pulled out the Christmas music. That will all happen after Thanksgiving.
I do have a stipulation of the latest day that Christmas decorations can be put up. I request that the decorations are up prior to my bday. Its been a tradition and one I plan to continue.
So I know that you are all screaming because I have put my Christmas decorations out prior to Thanksgiving. If you really want to know the truth, I totally agree. So you ask why did I put it up. Here are the reasons:
1. Needed help rearranging the apt and getting the tree out and up and my parents were here to help.
2. My mom is looking for an artificial tree herself and wanted to see what mine looked like once it was put up.
3. My mom also wants me to stay this coming weekend at home to help her put there Christmas decorations up and if mine wasnt up I was planning on coming back early to put it up.
So my Christmas Tree and decorations are up at least what parts of them are here. But I have not had the Christmas Tree lights on yet and havent pulled out the Christmas music. That will all happen after Thanksgiving.
I do have a stipulation of the latest day that Christmas decorations can be put up. I request that the decorations are up prior to my bday. Its been a tradition and one I plan to continue.
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Go Cats!
Yesterday afternoon, I attend my first UK basketball game of the season. It definitely was a new experience for me. In the past, I have been extremely lucky to obtain tickets in lower arena. This was the first time to be setting up in upper arena, and it wasn’t just upper arena but the second row from the top. Definitely took me several minutes to figure out where I was sitting and get my full bearings about me. But once I figured out where I was, the seats really were not that bad. The view from the top is not a bad view. I could actually still see the players and they were not ants running around on the court. I would definitely take the opportunity again to attend a UK Men’s basketball game in about any seat in Rupp Arena.
This was also the first time that I was able to snatch up 4 tickets together for a UK game, so I invited the ‘rents up to watch there first UK game in Rupp Arena. I think they enjoyed the experience. Even my mom seemed to enjoy it and she is not a huge sports fan.
I know the 4th ticket did not go to waste J You are very welcome for the opportunity, Ashlee. I totally agree with Ash about the player intro music. It was about to lull me to sleep. There is definite need for a change in player intro music. I guess we will just have to wait and see what happens the next home game.
Granted this was the first game of regular season, but I felt that the crowd was definitely energized with this team. I was impressed with their 3-pt shooting abilities though I will wait to see if they can do it consistently week after week, against all caliber teams. I feel confident that this will definitely be a good basketball season. If Kentucky fans need anything, it is a good basketball season after the lousy football season.
Go Cats!
Late Nights and Early Mornings
It is 5 o’clock in the morning and for almost the 10th straight night, I am up doing something for work, earlier or later than normal. The first several days of this stretch were okay because it was mostly dealing with something that I had implemented on Friday last. There were a few complications not in my implementation but in differences btwn test and production environments. All issues were resolved by Monday evening and things were running a bit smoother.
Monday, November 15, 2004
YAACK Amazing Race
Saturday afternoon at 3 pm, 13 young adults and the activity leader met at church for a couple hours of adventure. The young adults were split into two teams (several unexpected people showed up and there was only enough clues for 2 teams, but that was okay, all had fun), Blue Team and Red Team. Each team split into their respective automobiles and were given their first clue, keeping in mind that no clues would take them outside of New Circle, with the exception of the final eating destination.
Teams came prepared with maps, phone books, and cars full of gas. J even brought Trivia Pursuit for his team to have continuous entertainment. Apparently, the game became a bit more involving after reaching the 2nd clue and Trivia Pursuit was put away, until later in the evening.
I was part of the blue team which consisted of 6 team members, 2 female and 4 males. The red team also consisted of 2 females but 5 males. The red team split up into two cars while the blue team packed into CM's Explorer, 2 in each row.
Other key things about the race, the first team to arrive at the final destination received 5 pts, the team with the fewest miles received 5 pts, and there were 3 bonus pts for 1 pt each. The next clue was found inside a brown envelope that was attached to a stake in the ground.
First clue took us to the intersection of St Ann and St Christopher.
Second clue took us to Memorial Coliseum with a bonus question.
The teams were neck and neck heading towards clue number 4.
Third clue landed us at the Newman Center at UK, unfortunately the clue had disappeared from this location. After searching by multitudes of individuals, we called the organizer and she gave us the 4th clue.
Clue four took us downtown to the library to get a magazine from circulation. Inside the magazine was taped clue number 5.
This is were things got a bit interesting. Car number one of the red team took off a good bit prior to us. As we set there trying to decode the clue and figure out where to go, car number two of the red team took off. We decided that we might better start heading in some direction.
Clue - 1775 the Frontiers set up a camp after hearing about some victory, and the bonus was to find the woman in which the fountain was dedicated to. (The clue was actually written better than that but those were the main pts) The only fountain we could really think of was at Triangle Park though that didn't sound right, but we headed in that direction anyway. Not seeing the stake with the next clue, we drove up to the Hyatt and set in the parking lot across the street.
At that pt, a couple great ideas came out of the group. KK suggested calling the commerce dept, CM reminded us about the phone books in the car. I had totally forgotten that we had phone books, since I didn't bring one. Who would have ever known that in the front of the Alltell Phone Book was a section devoted to historical museums, parks, seating for all the major complexes, and etc. As I started scanning through the section, KK called the commerce dept. Suprisingly on a late Sat afternoon, someone actually answered the phone and she tried to explain to her best ability what we were looking for. About that same time, I came across a park that had something to do with frontier in the 1700s. After double confirmation of the correct solution, we were off to get clue number 5.
As we were headed that direction, CM's phone rang. It was his wife calling to verify that we were not lost and had resolved the last clue. We informed her that we were on our way to get it now. (Reason why she called...car number two saw us sitting at the Hyatt, and one of the guys thought that MM might want to call us to make sure we were not lost.)
Clue number 5 then took us to Gratz Park on Translyvanias campus. Since the Newman Center, I had been sitting in the far back of the explorer. At this pt, I couldn't take sitting in the back any longer, especially after the guys couldn't seem to follow the instruction of going to the middle of the park to find the clue. So I said forget this and jumped out the car and went sprinting (well as fast as I possible could). The guys in a big group (3) all ran in front of the bldg and around, while the clue was stationed actually on the other side of the park. As they came around the right side of the house, I had already emerged around the left side and was headed towards the clue. Upon grabbing the clue, I started running back towards the car. I was accompanied by 2 of the guys, who said that DP had ran back to tell CM to come pick us up. I knew that would take too long plus put too many miles on the car because of all the one way streets. I said no we are running. We can get back to the car before he can even attempt to come get us, which proved to be totally true. Upon arriving back at the Explorer, I kicked SK out of the drivers seat and took over as navigator in the front, instead of navigating in the back. I have no clue what the next clue was because my lungs were ready to collapse (YES I am horribly out of shape. It was quite pathetic. And I spent most the rest of the event coughing up my lungs or at least trying to :-)
Clue 6 took us to Red Mile
Clue 7 then to Landsdown
Clue 8 to the final destination
By this pt, we assumed that we were way behind in terms of time and all we could do is try to keep the mileage as low as we could. The last 4 locations the red team had beaten us to the punch. Upon arriving, at the Z's for dinner, we were immediately asked if we had gone to McConnell Spring's. We responded well of course, didn't you guys? The answer from the Red Team was No. Apparently, they picked a park with a fountain and it just happened to be Gratz park were clue 6 was found and kept them on the correct path to the finish. But they missed the correct clue that would have taken them to Gratz park.
Therefore the Blue Team was victorious by finding all 8 clues and completing a half an hour behind the Red Team, who skipped a clue.
It was a blast and stories were flying once we all got into the house. You could feel the competitive juices and psyched up people, ready to go again.
Teams came prepared with maps, phone books, and cars full of gas. J even brought Trivia Pursuit for his team to have continuous entertainment. Apparently, the game became a bit more involving after reaching the 2nd clue and Trivia Pursuit was put away, until later in the evening.
I was part of the blue team which consisted of 6 team members, 2 female and 4 males. The red team also consisted of 2 females but 5 males. The red team split up into two cars while the blue team packed into CM's Explorer, 2 in each row.
Other key things about the race, the first team to arrive at the final destination received 5 pts, the team with the fewest miles received 5 pts, and there were 3 bonus pts for 1 pt each. The next clue was found inside a brown envelope that was attached to a stake in the ground.
First clue took us to the intersection of St Ann and St Christopher.
Second clue took us to Memorial Coliseum with a bonus question.
The teams were neck and neck heading towards clue number 4.
Third clue landed us at the Newman Center at UK, unfortunately the clue had disappeared from this location. After searching by multitudes of individuals, we called the organizer and she gave us the 4th clue.
Clue four took us downtown to the library to get a magazine from circulation. Inside the magazine was taped clue number 5.
This is were things got a bit interesting. Car number one of the red team took off a good bit prior to us. As we set there trying to decode the clue and figure out where to go, car number two of the red team took off. We decided that we might better start heading in some direction.
Clue - 1775 the Frontiers set up a camp after hearing about some victory, and the bonus was to find the woman in which the fountain was dedicated to. (The clue was actually written better than that but those were the main pts) The only fountain we could really think of was at Triangle Park though that didn't sound right, but we headed in that direction anyway. Not seeing the stake with the next clue, we drove up to the Hyatt and set in the parking lot across the street.
At that pt, a couple great ideas came out of the group. KK suggested calling the commerce dept, CM reminded us about the phone books in the car. I had totally forgotten that we had phone books, since I didn't bring one. Who would have ever known that in the front of the Alltell Phone Book was a section devoted to historical museums, parks, seating for all the major complexes, and etc. As I started scanning through the section, KK called the commerce dept. Suprisingly on a late Sat afternoon, someone actually answered the phone and she tried to explain to her best ability what we were looking for. About that same time, I came across a park that had something to do with frontier in the 1700s. After double confirmation of the correct solution, we were off to get clue number 5.
As we were headed that direction, CM's phone rang. It was his wife calling to verify that we were not lost and had resolved the last clue. We informed her that we were on our way to get it now. (Reason why she called...car number two saw us sitting at the Hyatt, and one of the guys thought that MM might want to call us to make sure we were not lost.)
Clue number 5 then took us to Gratz Park on Translyvanias campus. Since the Newman Center, I had been sitting in the far back of the explorer. At this pt, I couldn't take sitting in the back any longer, especially after the guys couldn't seem to follow the instruction of going to the middle of the park to find the clue. So I said forget this and jumped out the car and went sprinting (well as fast as I possible could). The guys in a big group (3) all ran in front of the bldg and around, while the clue was stationed actually on the other side of the park. As they came around the right side of the house, I had already emerged around the left side and was headed towards the clue. Upon grabbing the clue, I started running back towards the car. I was accompanied by 2 of the guys, who said that DP had ran back to tell CM to come pick us up. I knew that would take too long plus put too many miles on the car because of all the one way streets. I said no we are running. We can get back to the car before he can even attempt to come get us, which proved to be totally true. Upon arriving back at the Explorer, I kicked SK out of the drivers seat and took over as navigator in the front, instead of navigating in the back. I have no clue what the next clue was because my lungs were ready to collapse (YES I am horribly out of shape. It was quite pathetic. And I spent most the rest of the event coughing up my lungs or at least trying to :-)
Clue 6 took us to Red Mile
Clue 7 then to Landsdown
Clue 8 to the final destination
By this pt, we assumed that we were way behind in terms of time and all we could do is try to keep the mileage as low as we could. The last 4 locations the red team had beaten us to the punch. Upon arriving, at the Z's for dinner, we were immediately asked if we had gone to McConnell Spring's. We responded well of course, didn't you guys? The answer from the Red Team was No. Apparently, they picked a park with a fountain and it just happened to be Gratz park were clue 6 was found and kept them on the correct path to the finish. But they missed the correct clue that would have taken them to Gratz park.
Therefore the Blue Team was victorious by finding all 8 clues and completing a half an hour behind the Red Team, who skipped a clue.
It was a blast and stories were flying once we all got into the house. You could feel the competitive juices and psyched up people, ready to go again.
Sunday, November 14, 2004
Unconciousness
I promise no clarity or continuity in this post but I thought for those who actually read my blog that I might actually update you on the happenings of my life.
Last weekend was definitely a busy weekend. I attended two ODK initiations, in which I presided over the second one. (Transy and GTown) We had a nice going away party for Fr P who has been assigned as a pastor at another church in the Diocese. The other big thing was attending the last autocross of the season though I did not participate. It was a sad though I did ride with several individuals which was a lot of fun. I had to leave early and ended up sleeping in. I really have no recollection of what I did last Sat. Oh well.
This week has been an insane week at work. Lots of things to be done. I got two new projects which put me into mtgs all day Thurs. Friday I had to finish wrapping up another large project which is why I am up still tonight :-(. Its all working great just a couple small quirks. The speed increase is awesome so I can handle staying up a bit longer to fix the small quirk and then get some sleep. After only 5 hrs of sleep last night, I am beat tonight.
Today has been an awesome day. Thanks to so many people.
A special thanks to Ashlee who came over and helped me reorganize my pantry/utility closet. It looks 100% better. Plus I finally rearranged the closet to get the winter stuff towards the front bottom and the summer stuff pushed towards the back/top. Make finding clothes a bit easier.
The rest of the day was spent at YAACK functions. First of all, we had a YAACK Amazing Race. Then we all went to the Z's for potluck dinner and hung out til late playing several different games. It was all a total blast. I did manage to make it home safely though I am not totally sure how. I think part of it was my mom on the other line talking to me to make sure I made it home safely. She had called 6 times totally trying to get ahold of me all afternoon so I figured it would be good to call her back and let her know that I was still alive.
More info on the YAACK Amazing Race to come.
Last weekend was definitely a busy weekend. I attended two ODK initiations, in which I presided over the second one. (Transy and GTown) We had a nice going away party for Fr P who has been assigned as a pastor at another church in the Diocese. The other big thing was attending the last autocross of the season though I did not participate. It was a sad though I did ride with several individuals which was a lot of fun. I had to leave early and ended up sleeping in. I really have no recollection of what I did last Sat. Oh well.
This week has been an insane week at work. Lots of things to be done. I got two new projects which put me into mtgs all day Thurs. Friday I had to finish wrapping up another large project which is why I am up still tonight :-(. Its all working great just a couple small quirks. The speed increase is awesome so I can handle staying up a bit longer to fix the small quirk and then get some sleep. After only 5 hrs of sleep last night, I am beat tonight.
Today has been an awesome day. Thanks to so many people.
A special thanks to Ashlee who came over and helped me reorganize my pantry/utility closet. It looks 100% better. Plus I finally rearranged the closet to get the winter stuff towards the front bottom and the summer stuff pushed towards the back/top. Make finding clothes a bit easier.
The rest of the day was spent at YAACK functions. First of all, we had a YAACK Amazing Race. Then we all went to the Z's for potluck dinner and hung out til late playing several different games. It was all a total blast. I did manage to make it home safely though I am not totally sure how. I think part of it was my mom on the other line talking to me to make sure I made it home safely. She had called 6 times totally trying to get ahold of me all afternoon so I figured it would be good to call her back and let her know that I was still alive.
More info on the YAACK Amazing Race to come.
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