Digital Outhouse

The arrival of Fall

2010-09-09T16:16:00.002-08:00

It happened overnight. Or maybe not.

We went from a rainy summer right into fall, and the leaves are beginning to yellow, the temperature has definitely dropped, and that fall smell is in the air. Normally, this is something that makes me a bit sad, because it means we're going into winter...but this year is different.

As we have spent the last few weeks refurnishing the house, I started to feel like I may really live here. Here, being Alaska...anchorage...or even just this house. We are starting to know a few people, and are getting invited to events around town. I'm back in school which always makes me happy, AND my business is thriving. Although its tough to juggle, I think all is well.

I am feeling like I'm all set to have a great winter season - so here's to getting started!

ADD....Absolutely Distracted & Disinterested

2010-09-02T16:26:00.002-08:00

I'm finding that I have about 2 days worth of awesome effort where I can start projects (because I'm best at starting things, and suck at finishing them), read my manuals, and stay on track in all courses of life.

Then....it all goes to hell. It doesn't really take a whole lot to throw me off. A nice day out, a sick dog, a sale listed in the paper (at a store I don't need to go to). At this point, I may as well check out because any effort I make to get things accomplished are met by forgetfulness, losing my keys, and generalized anger or confusion :)

I was good until Tuesday of this week. Now, its about time for me to get my ass in gear considering my first quiz of the semester happens to be tomorrow and I have no idea what I'm doing.

There are moments when I ask myself what the heck I'm doing. I'm 30, and going back into a school process that will take me 4.5 years? Am I nuts?? I should be working on finding a way to spend the rest of my life slacking off on Hatteras Island in between hurricanes. I should be focusing on furthering this business of mine which has surprisingly done well. I should be figuring out why I hate the idea of having kids so much (other parents, school, poop, mommy boringness), and getting over it, to start producing 'those-who-will-care-for-me-later-when-I'm-old'.

Yeah, who knows. Guess I'll stay in school. The idea of being 'Dr. Dyke' is rather appealing. And I know I can ace the programs....if....I...can...just...focus.

L. Huskamute

2010-08-30T10:42:00.002-08:00

L. Huskamute is our dog's stage name. He's famous in these parts. Ok, maybe not...but he could be. People freak out over him everywhere we go. He's so GORGEOUS, he's so awesome....blah blah blah. They weren't there when he ate the insoles out of Eric's tennis shoes, or shredded the braided rug one bit at a time.

So if we're ever gonna get rich, we need to get busy making children's books starring L. Huskamute himself...and charging for all the photos he has to pose in!

Now...just need to figure out how I'm going to find time to put this scheme into play...

Educational Bliss...?

2010-08-30T10:34:00.002-08:00

Ahh, the education never ends. We've been trying to get set to move to Wyoming to attend school - Eric for renewable energy and me for physical therapy. That idea fell apart when we found out I wouldn't receive any financial aid, and therefore, would have no money to live on. Cheyenne isn't exactly a town I see myself getting a job in either, so with that scrapped, we went back to the drawing board.

Next : Eric found a 1 year renewable energy certificate program offered in Palmer and also found me a doctorate program in Occupational Therapy. Who knows if I'll be able to get into it, but first I have to complete the pre-requisites. So I'm now enrolled in Anatomy & Physiology.

Last week was our first week ever trying to work full time and go to school as well. I can't say that I feel excited about this year. Maybe after the initial shock wears off, I'll get used to the schedule, but right now, we wake up at 6, and don't see each other until 8 pm most days of the week. It's basically dinner and bed. On the upside, both of our classes are interesting (and super challenging), so we should probably be in a good spot after this year is over.

A year of no blogging?!

2010-08-01T10:28:00.000-08:00

I've been slacking on keeping up with my blog here, but to my defense it's been a busy year.
Quick List of happenings:

Eric went to Antarctica again March of '09 and I stayed in Alaska for the summer
I completed my dog training certification and spent my summer interning and substitute teaching for a company called AK Dog Sports - lots of fun.
I started my own business in August of '09 which is doing very well a year later :)
Eric and I got married in November of '09 and headed back to Anchorage

So there it is. And now, I finally may be ready to catch up the blog as I settle back into life here.

Dumped On

2009-03-22T21:03:00.002-08:00

I came out this morning to find that it had snowed - AGAIN. I am so freaking sick of snow. Its gorgeous and fluffy, and Anchorage is probably a prettier place covered in snow....but I want it to stop!!! Despite the flakes, I bundled up and took Logan out to the park for a very long walk / training session before we went to his dog training class. He's catching on very quickly to new commands and starting to respond better to old ones. I'm not sure if the fact that he's losing his sight makes him more responsive to my voice, but whatever it is, its working. He's the sweetest thing, and he has been keeping me good company now that Eric is gone. If only he could go to the bar with me for my birthday - I'd be set!

I'm feeling distracted and bored lately, but I can't figure out why. I've got so much stuff I need to do, but I put things off. On the plus side, I am breezing through my Rosetta Stone spanish lessons and enjoying them very much. The only positive thing I try to keep in mind from Eric being gone is that I'll be able to fulfill my dream of travelling South America. That part is super exciting.

Speaking of Eric, he called today from the boat - they are delayed due to really bad storms out at sea and some of the biggest waves they've ever had to deal with during a crossing. So they are floating about near the cape, hoping that the worst will pass quickly so they can move along. Doesn't sound like my cup of tea, but what we will sometimes do for adventure...

Signs of summer

2009-03-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

Cheery, sunshiny snow day, originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

Today I was looking over some of my pictures from the past months. Many of them are along the same path that leads from my house, to the lake. Its my favorite walking trail. I noticed how the photos went from a gray/white in winter, to FINALLY, a bright sunshiny blue sky! This made me very happy, as I am starting to feel alive again. I actually want to go walk the dog!

My Aunt Sharon just purchased a doggie harness for Logan, so the next picture of this bridge should have him pulling me across it on my rollerblades! Ok, maybe not so soon....but I have a secret hope that the snow on the trail will be melted by my birthday so I can try out my new sport. I think I may invest in some kneepads. And a helmet. And a mouthguard :)

Fuzz Butt

2009-03-19T10:09:00.001-08:00

Good Dog!, originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

Logan appears to have dropped 20 lbs now that he has blown his winter coat. We took him for some grooming to help get the huge white chunks of fur out. They were ALL over the house and the car. He has now calmed down his shedding a bit and is ready for spring! So am I.

Time for Updates

2009-03-19T09:54:00.000-08:00

So I haven't felt like blogging much lately, but now that Eric is gone to Antarctica again, I find myself with lots more free time. Funny how that happens. So, updates:

I am currently working at a personal training studio, whipping butts into shape and teaching boot camp classes for older women.
Logan and I are going through basic obedience class as part of my internship for my dog training studies. He's doing well and having fun
I am training for my first sprint triathalon - it is scheduled for May 17th. Wish me luck!
We are finally, for really this time, planning a wedding for November this year. The week of thanksgiving, but not sure on the exact date yet.

In other news, I have learned how to make coffee and drink too much of it, I've lost 9 lbs since coming back from the holidays, and obsessively read magazines (nothing new there). Life is pretty much the same from day to day, and sometimes it gets old, but overall its ok. Still don't know too many people around here, but I think I'm going to take myself out on the town for my birthday and meet some! hahaha.

My Personality Quiz Results

2009-01-01T15:17:00.000-09:00

I took the 43 Things Personality Quiz and found out I'm a

Traveling Self-Knowing Money Manager

Nana's 83rd Birthday

2008-12-14T14:07:00.001-09:00

Nana's 83rd Birthday, originally uploaded by zingari mamma.

I missed it, but everyone else was there for Nana's birthday brunch!! Looks like she picked up a hot guy on the docks....

Baby Pictures & Whatnot (of my dog)

2008-12-13T12:30:00.002-09:00

Baby Logan, originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

We are cleaning house today! Going through some much needed de-cluttering....we found the pictures from when logan was little. Isn't he sweet?

Once, I became a dog trainer

2008-12-13T09:33:00.002-09:00

4 months into a training program, I am finally done with my theory portion. 9 chapters of reading, practicing, and taking quizzes. Now I have 3 weeks at home to practice on my mom’s dogs, see if I really remember anything I read, and see if I can get those pups to listen to me!! After that, I’ve got 10 volunteer hours at a shelter and then an internship and a final exam! If I successfully complete that stuff, I will have finished my 3rd goal of 2008. Wish me luck!

See more progress on: become a dog trainer

Sitting Still

2008-12-10T14:04:00.001-09:00

Sunsets, originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

So I don't miss Antarctica...much. But what I do miss is that fact that in just a few months, they will all be released back into the wild, to frolick amongst the sheep in New Zealand. To jump on airplanes to carefully...or not so carefully...planned destinations that usually involve beaches and warm weather.

I'm thinking this as I sit here in my office, studying for my last final exam, watching yet another day of snow fall. I used to love it. Every time it snowed, I would go play in it like a little kid. Today, I opened up my pics of Tonga and Samoa instead. I like my schooling, and I like where its taking me. I just don't know if that will ever compare with 6 months of freedom and travel!!

On the upside, I have just a few days left in Anchorage before I take off for the sunny (sunnier) east coast for 3 weeks of Christmas vacation!! That makes me very happy.

You Can Call Me Employed. Sort of.

2008-12-09T20:57:00.003-09:00

So today I had my interview with the lady who owns a fitness studio for 'Mature Women'...which is mostly an older crowd but also includes pretty much any women who are uncomfortable in a regular gym setting. This is a small business and sessions are 1 on 1 by appointment. There are also group classes. We had a meeting to talk internships...and I got it!

So come January, I'll be teaching yoga and observing personal training sessions at this studio...and possibly progressing on to a paid position later. Pretty cool!

I PASSED!!!!!

2008-12-08T13:03:00.001-09:00

Deadhorse Drive

2008-12-07T13:45:00.001-09:00

Deadhorse Drive, originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

Here we are on Deadhorse Drive!! Our boondoggle was fun, a quick trip from Anchorage with about 30 min on the ground at Deadhorse. It was freakin cold, the way it should be, and we took some quick photos. It was dark at 3:30 pm...

Do I need a Jacket?

2008-12-04T13:26:00.003-09:00

YES!!!!
Why? Because:
it's misty -there's a few snowflakes about - it's frickin' FREEZING!
Based on the weather at Deadhorse AK USA, 28 minutes ago.
Temperature: -9.4°F / -23°C
Wind Speed: 4.6 MPH / 7.41 KPH / 4KT
Weather Detected: mist,light snow

Today has been strange. The pieces are falling in place so nicely its kind of creepy. First, I got all my studying done after finding exactly what I've been looking for and haven't found for the past week on the internet. Next, the lady who I really want to do my internship with calls me and says she's super excited about meeting me and my interest in her field so we set up a time to meet next week. THEN....out of the blue...my landlady calls me and offers me a FREE flight to Deadhorse Alaska!!

The deal is her friend is a flight attendant and they are doing some run up to Deadhorse and just need people to sit in the plane. So its free, nothing too exciting, but a boondoggle nonetheless! Me, Eric, our landlady, and who knows who else. Up to the north slope we go! Just a quick up and back with about an hour on the ground. As you can see, the weather is a bit nipply...she warned me it'd be cold and I informed her I used to work in Antarctica. I know what she means when she says bring your winter gear! Exciting. So yeah, Saturday I will be flying around AK!

Find Out More.....

Apple Cranberry PIE!

2008-12-04T08:13:00.001-09:00

Apple Cranberry PIE!, originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

This one is probably my favorite pie so far. And probably the last pie of the season, as I am in need of a diet once the holidays pass!! The crumb topping ended up being much finer crumbs than I think it was supposed to, but no matter what it looks like - it tastes great!! What wouldn't taste great when its filled with sugar and cinnamon?

I'm moving on to vegetable dishes now. In the coming weeks hopefully there will be some veggie masterpieces instead of just junk food!

Another Book Finished

2008-12-02T19:04:00.002-09:00

rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was so interesting to me. Its all about even when we try our hardest not to have preconceptions, we do, and they influence everything. The most awesome part was how our unconscious will often make the better choice when given a situation with many possible options/pieces to take into consideration. Our conscious mind and its lists of pros and cons should be tasked with the more menial decisions while leaving the big stuff for instincts! I like that. This book is full of case studies, examples, and fascinating information. Read it!

Crunch Time

2008-12-02T11:14:00.003-09:00

Its here - finals week! Well, actually, its kind of finals two weeks. The next few days are guaranteed to be filled with cramming, coffee, and overall craziness. This is the one time though that I'm going in knowing that even if I did nothing else in terms of studying, I really know this stuff. I'm confident. Its a pretty good feeling. Its just school anyhow. The big deal test is my ACE personal trainer exam that I'm scheduled to take right in the middle of my finals. I want to get it all done and out of the way for me so that I don't have to think about it over Xmas break.

What I've got going on:

A program analysis of a "client" who has designed and started her own workout program only to lose motivation right away. I have to say what she's doing right, what she's doing completely wrong, re-design the program according to national standards for fitness, and attempt to explain the whole thing and re-motivate the client. Easier on paper than in real life, for sure.
An anatomy test where I have to list the bones and muscles of the human body
An application test of that anatomy in the gym - explaining which muscles are doing the work in certain exercises, which are helping, which planes of motions we are working in, correct posture & execution of the exercise, proper stretching, & warm up/cool down techniques.
The ACE exam - a comprehensive test of the systems of the human body focusing mainly on the heart & oxygen transport/usage, standards for health & fitness goals, health problems and how to design exercise programs for clients with injuries or health issues.....plus more anatomy & movement analysis
Dog Training Exam - second to last!!! I'm almost finished with the theory part of the certification. Next comes practical application in my externship..

I've gotten a lot of questions lately from people who didn't know I was doing all this as to why I'm doing it and what I plan to do with this stuff. I've always been interested in it, but never could justify spending time/money on it....until now....my hands are shot. All the computer work I've done in the short amount of time I've been working has killed them. As I write this, my forearms & hands are covered with icy hot b/c I've had some bad flare-ups lately. So I kind of have no choice - office work is bad for my health. So I'm getting the basic certifications in hopes of continuing on to specialize more in the "Senior" populations. Senior in the health & fitness world is not the senior that comes to mind when I speak that word. It can be anyone 50 and up. Probably even younger. Its mainly older folks who are either sedentary or experiencing health issues which limit their ability, range of motion, etc. Classes can be anything from gentle exercise to chair exercise. Its a population of people that most of the people in my classes would rather not focus on...they want the young, healthy people who are working on sports specific pursuits or growing muscle. I think that its a population often underserved, and there are opportunities there... we'll see!

So there's the next few weeks spelled out. It should all be over by the 11th and then I can clean the house & pack a bit to come home for xmas and see my family! Wish me luck :)

White Christmas at Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T15:35:00.001-09:00

Winter Wonderland...., originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

Well....we got MORE snow today on top of all the snow we've been getting. Shoveling my car out took me quite a while today! We took advantage of a much needed study break at noon and went out for another cross country ski attempt. Logan hates that we leave him, but I don't think it'd be good for our health to strap that dog to us right now! We left him to play in the backyard and could hear him wimpering and whining for a bit as we we headed down the path. The dog can't stand to be left!

I made it up to him by wrestling with him when we came home. Both me and the dog ended up soaking wet and tired. Time to go in for some potato soup and grilled cheese sammmiches cooked up by Chef Hansen!

Tree Lighting, Bad Reindeer, & Nutcracking

2008-11-28T22:46:00.000-09:00

Tonight it was Christmas in Anchorage. Our evening (I call it this because at 3 pm it was getting so dark that it felt it was 7ish!) started when we arrived downtown to pose as tourists. We decided that for black friday instead of fighting crowds and acting ridiculous, we would pretend to be tourists and go into all the shops to laugh at goofy t-shirts and buy Christmas presents.

5:30 began the town square Christmas tree lighting which is a big event put on by AT&T every year. After 2 rounds of Hot Chocolate & Sugar cookies, I was starting to twitch from my sugar high. The singing just kept going....and going...and going....so instead of hanging around to see Santa, we went to grab some food before we headed back for the Nutcracker ballet.

We didn't miss out though!!! As we got back to the Performing Arts Center, we took a look out the windows - they look down onto town square. Santa was still out there....and since it IS Alaska....he had a whole team of real live reindeer with him!! It was the most hilarious sight. There was a dude in military dress beside each reindeer giving the whole thing quite a different feel :) I wouldn't say they were in total control though. As the evening came to an end and Santa needed to leave, these big dudes each hung on as best they could as the reindeer pulled (and in some cases twisted & bucked) their way out of the square. One guy was basically ice-skating - feet planted in the snow, holding on for dear life to his assigned antlered friend. What a sight to see!

The Nutcracker was wonderful - I did have to admit that I didn't know the story as I've never been a Christmas fanatic and watched every Xmas related show there was. So, I read the summary in the program and sat back to watch some crazy tippie toe action. The ballet was wonderful and they did a great job on the set & costumes. My favorite was a super flamboyant dude who we found out later was supposed to be a candy cane....he just ran and jumped through hoops and flitted all around the stage making me crack up.

And let me just say.....those tights...I didn't they could get THAT tight!!!!

QUACK!!

2008-11-28T11:00:00.002-09:00

QUACK!!, originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

Check out our wonderful feast of roast cranberry glazed duck and pistachio happiness stuffing! We spent our thanksgiving lounging around the house, calling relatives back home and drinking coffee. This led to going to the corner coffee shack for more coffee (Banana Gingerbread Latte for me and Chocolate Peanut Butter Latte for Eric!). Eventually, we were ready to work up our "turkey appetite" so we took Logan out for a long walk before finally coming home and starting dinner much later than originally planned. BUT, thats the beauty of having only two people over for Thanksgiving! No rush, no planning, no entertainment. So....with a bottle of wine and a hungry drooling dog at our feet, the cooking commenced!

Eric is in charge of all things meat. I am scared of slimy poultry and do not handle guts well. I was in charge of making Eric's mom's yam casserole that he loves (and hoping it would come out tasting right!). I have just recently discovered my love of yams, so this was fun. I also made thyme asparagus AND opened the can of cranberries - so yeah, I was a pivotal part of dinner huh? hehehe. We were also going to make rolls and honey glazed carrots, but once we got things started we realized there would be no way for two of us to eat all that!

Dinner was awesome - Eric's first duck turned out to be juicy and delicious. I think we ate about 7ish. After digesting a few hours, we shoved some of my pumpkin pie down and hit the sack. Good day!!! For more Thanksgiving photos, click on the duck and it will take you to my Flickr site!

A Thanksgiving Wrestling

2008-11-27T16:34:00.002-09:00

Snuggle, originally uploaded by DirtyMoggins.

Before we started to roast our duck, we went on a long walk to the frozen lake and let Logan run around off leash. He had an awesome time! We have about a foot of snow on the ground and more coming. The next few weeks should be a lot of fun, but are also filled with crazy studying as we both finish up our semesters at school.

Last night, we set up our Christmas tree - a mini one and some decorations so that the next weeks will be festive! Tomorrow we will spend the day walking around downtown partaking in the Black Friday craze, and end the night with the big Xmas tree lighting followed by the Nutcracker Ballet. I've never been to a ballet, so it should be fun!

Happy Holidays everyone!

Puppy Love

2008-11-15T15:05:00.001-09:00

Our little Logan has gotten HUGE! More pics at flickr

We Taketh Away Your Money

2008-11-14T07:41:00.003-09:00

It appears the university has made a mistake. the loans given to me for school was a mistake. A mistake I had no way to see coming, but a mistake nontheless. What does that mean for me? The whole year I had planned has now gone belly up.

The personal training certificate I was completing is supposed to take a full year to complete, but now I won't be able to take the hands-on practice portion of the classes. Not going to let it get me down....now I'm on the fast track. All the theory classes are completed and I just need to study a bit more on my own. I will be taking my national exam December 8th, so the cramming begins...

I could do your taxes

2008-11-09T15:10:00.003-09:00

This week will mark the ending of my first (and most likely last) tax class. I feel like I know much more than I ever wanted to know about doing taxes and I feel blessed that I have no savings, stocks, bonds, home ownership, alimony, children, or even a husband. My taxes are PIECE O CAKE!!! At least compared to what they could be.

Funny story: I was driving down the road one day and saw a sign:

"Free Class: Learn to Do Taxes! Just buy the book"

If I have a weakness, it is a free class. You can bet I was signed up for that class within the hour. My class of 10 people dwindled quickly to half its original size, and then further shrunk to just two students. By the end of it, I was the only person left who finished - awkward!

I'm going to attempt to make smart use of the 6-8 hours a week I normally spend either in class or doing homework to study more anatomy...especially in relation to yoga. That, or work out. I am feeling smaller these days. Old clothes that haven't fit since I was in college are becoming my standard wardrobe. My old ski jacket feels a bit, well, encompassing. So, progress is being made. I feel good about everything. I'm also super excited that in a little over a month, I'll be at home visiting my peeps!

Trends

2008-11-06T10:25:00.002-09:00

So I was reading the paper this morning and noticed there are an awful lot of newspaper articles about things online. You can now trash your ex boyfriend online and post a profile for him so that other girls can look him up and view his past sins before deciding if they want to take it further. Blogs are the new 'it' thing too, with even parents quoting things from their children's blogs as bragging rights instead of just showing photos to everyone. The funny article today was basically about when your children turn on you....on their blog. It all makes me laugh.

I am guilty. I participate in blogging, facebook, and email on a daily basis. I do realize the absurdity in most of it, but hey, whatever. I got to thinking though - why do I blog? It used to be because I was in Antarctica and it was easier to post one blog for people to look at than write separate emails or even maintain a correct email list!! Now, maybe its just habit? A further look led to the truth: I've always wanted to keep a journal. Not to work out my feelings or share them with anyone, but simply to remember. I CAN'T remember shit! From yesterday even. Journaling never works out for me though - I hate writing. My handwriting sucks and just looking at it makes me pissed off. My hands hurt most when I write - carpel tunnel issues. I can't remember where I put the damn notebook. I write a sentence that I hate and have to cross it out or erase it. In short, writing is too much effort. In today's world of laziness, blogging is perfect for people like me. And I don't mind if you read it, cause nothing I do is a secret really. So at least I have it all figured out now. Lazy forgetful people need special help :)

Pirate Night

2008-11-01T11:12:00.002-08:00

Ahhh, my dream has been fulfilled. For YEARS now, I've been wanting to step foot into Chilkoot Charlies....the bar with the reputation for being the craziest, rowdiest, most party friendly bar in all of Anchorage. And last night I attended their Halloween party. It was hilarious and tons of fun. this place is huge. Its like a maze....you just keep walking and end up in room after room...different music in each. We witness some of the most slutty costumes I've seen in a long time. And some of the most creative. It was a blast. And I'm not even dying of a hangover this morning!

People here are Stupid

2008-10-29T09:00:00.003-08:00

I want to follow that statement up which an acknowledgment that I'm aware people everywhere are stupid. But in the last few months, I've heard some of the most insane comments in regards to Alaskan politics. I make it a point not to talk politics, so I will spare you the details and just say how very disappointed I am.

Halloween Approaches

2008-10-28T21:45:00.000-08:00

I'm stuck! A part of me wants to dress up and go all out for halloween just like...well, just like always. Problem is, my body feels older and doesn't handle alcohol very well anymore. So that part of me says just stay home and sleep. I see myself putting in a half-assed effort, going out and having a drink and then going home early. Or staying out all night and regretting it the next day!

Hahaha, whatever. So far, the disgusting costume ideas tossed around have been: Turtle Head, old granny flasher, or pirate chick (since Eric is going as a pirate). I don't feel like putting effort into making anything though!!! LAZY

Midterms

2008-10-28T08:38:00.001-08:00

Aced 'em. I've come to the conclusion that it must take me longer to study than anyone else. But man, I am thorough. I created kick-ass study guides for all my stuff and went into those tests ready. I really like what I'm learning. The human body is fascinating. At least in an I'm-only-studying-the-bones-and-systems kind of way. I wouldn't want to become a doctor and have to deal with blood and guts all the time.

I'm having a hard time trying to decided what to do with this though - do I continue on in my studies to become a physical therapist? A physical therapist assistant? There is a little voice in my head telling me I don't always have to know and be everything. The physical therapist assistant would still know alot, have less responsibility and probably get to go home on time from work. Downside? Earning potential of about 35,000. I already could make more than that doing office work. And I know, its the difference between doing something I'm interested in vs just a stupid job to go to....but I get stuck on that. Then there's the physical therapist....YEARS more study, but alot more earning potential. Who knows.

I wish I could just make up my damn mind! Typical woman right? :P

Orphan Day Puppies

2008-10-16T09:09:00.002-08:00

I am a sucker for fuzzy things. Especially when they are alive. So at first when I saw that my landlady was actually going to keep her dog outside all day when she was at work - all winter long, I thought I'd send Logan out to play with her. Which was a great idea, as they have become wonderful friends now and can hardly live apart. Everything was great until the "bush incident".

We came outside the other day to find that the dogs had torn up one of the bushes that our landlady had just planted....and were parading it around the yard. In a strange way, this was cute, and even funny....until we remembered how particular she is about her yard. So Eric grabbed the bush and attempted to replant it and cover it as best he could while I brought the dog in and cleaned his dirty, filthy, guilty little paws.

They dug the damn bush up AGAIN yesterday. The yard was a wreck. Its a bit hard to cover all the dirt when you've got a bunch of crusty snow as the ground cover. The dogs are no longer allowed to play out front. But then I had this pitiful little dog laying outside my front door in a ball looking all cold and lonely....

...now she's sleeping on the office floor. Logan is sleeping next to her, happy as can be.

Pie Updates

2008-10-15T22:05:00.000-08:00

So I took it upon myself to find possibly the easiest & quickest pie recipe on the internet short of sprinkling cinnamon & sugar on my apple and microwaving it (Yuck, I know). I was so proud of myself for accomplishing this feat & had the pie in the oven just baking away when I left for class. Eric's job was to remove the pie when it was time and sit and stare at it for hours until I came home from class.

It wasn't that tempting. I don't think he had too much of a struggle tearing himself away from the pie. I think you could maybe call it a pie, technically. But it really was just like some crusty apples.

It didn't taste bad. It didn't taste good. But still, I'd rather just eat an apple than make it again. Next time, I'm gonna put in the effort (and time) to make me a real pie.

Let there be Pie

2008-10-15T11:09:00.003-08:00

Tis the season, or something of that sort. What it comes down to is that we have a shitload of apples and need to do something with them. Its fallen on me to make a pie. Its up to me on the barefoot part, and at least I'm not pregnant! So yeah, if any of you people out there are hiding an extraordinary apple pie recipe, fork it over dammit.

A Winter Wonderland

2008-10-12T22:04:00.002-08:00

Tonight we had to take a break from studying to go play in the snow with logan. It was gorgeous outside. Its starting to get dark earlier and stay dark longer in the morning, but the snow keeps it light enough to still see where you're going. This is the part of living here that I love.

The Real Deal

2008-10-11T22:47:00.000-08:00

In his adventures, my brother has found me the perfect outhouse. How sweet :)

Doggie Play Day

2008-10-09T21:20:00.000-08:00

Today was cold. The thermometer read 20 degrees in the morning as I settled into my desk for a long day of studying. There was a funny sound at the door, and when I checked to see what it was, Barlow, the landladys dog was right there, pawing at it. Barlow is kept outside while she's at work. She was stomped as a puppy by a moose, and so even though she's only about 6 years old, she walks like an old arthritic dog. She is sometimes grumpy, but has grown to like Logan. So I let him out, and the two of them played all day long. I let them inside for awhile, and they napped, then went back out and played. It snowed and snowed all morning, but didn't stick too much. When I needed a break, we all went on a walk.
Needless to say, Logan is pooped tonight!

First Official Day of Snow

2008-10-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

It was beautiful and we had a great morning walk. Then it turned to slush....

And we're on to Winter

2008-10-06T21:00:00.003-08:00

This morning's walk was interrupted with the sound of the ice crunching under my feet. And that was when I had my footing. All the snow we had yesterday quickly turned to water and froze to the ground, lending to a wonderful morning of car accidents around Anchorage.

Thinking that I better winterize my vehicle, Eric put winter wipers on and made an appointment at the garage for my snow tires to be put on tomorrow. Good timing, I just looked outside my window - my yard is white.

We are now entering the dead zone. Soon there will be no more leaves on the ground or the trees. The daylight is slipping away slowly, and our morning dog walks are getting later. Or at least darker.

You May Call me Flex Gunship

2008-10-05T20:56:00.000-08:00

Without going into great detail on all the stupidity I've been witness to lately, I'll leave it at this: If Sarah Palin gets into office, I'm moving to New Zealand.

I am however enjoying all the things making fun of her in the media. My favorite one is this Sarah Palin Baby Name Generator. According to the program, if I was unlucky enough to be born to Sarah Palin, my name would be:

Flex Gunship Palin. I actually think I'll drop the Palin part of it and start going by Flex Gunship. It sounds sexy.

Fall in Alaska

2008-09-22T21:20:00.004-08:00

We have had a couple of awesome days. Brisk mornings, sunny afternoons, and lots of places to go and play. I've been experimenting with some of the things we've been learning in my health classes, and restructuring my running program. Logan is an eager running partner, as long as I agree to stop and let him roll in the bushes here and there. The end goal is to "increase my aerobic endurance" which will in turn help to boost my VO2 max, which, by the way...sucks right now. Its great that the weather here isn't 100 degrees, as it makes me much more likely to get out and play - even in the rain. The mountains outside of town have already been getting dumped on though...winter is coming fast. Thats ok, I'm ready - I have a pair of cross country skiis just waiting for me in the shed!

The dog training is coming along really well, and I've started some clicker training with Logan - he's catching on to it really fast. If I hadn't dropped it in poop accidentally, today's training would have gone alot better. I am going to start volunteering with a group called Friends of Pets which will help me to get my required 10 hours of doggie community service for my schooling.

I am very happy with the choices that I've made and where I've ended up this year. Things are looking good!

Did I mention that Logan loves that someone is home with him at almost every hour of the day? He's got me during the days, and while I'm in school at night, Eric is home with him. Puppy heaven!

I love Freecycle

2008-09-14T16:43:00.003-08:00

So even though the Herndon/Reston group denied me membership all these years, Anchorage freecycle has granted me membership! People in AK don't have quite the selection we did in Virginia, but thats because people here aren't living completely beyond their means and throwing things away left and right. Still, what a great community to be a part of.

In Antarctica, we had something called "Skua". A skua is actually a large bird known for stealing sandwhiches and other food from people as they try to get to their dorms. But "Skua" bins are places you can put things you no longer need/want and other people can pick them up and make use of them. That way, everything doesn't end up in the trash. Freecycle is similar to that - you post online things you want to give away and then people respond to your postings offering to take stuff from you.

Since my yoga mat was stolen in our unfortunate Uhaul incident, I've posted a few ads to try and get or buy a yoga mat from someone here in Anchorage since it costs like $50 to get a new one and then $20 to ship things here. Cross your fingers for me and hope I find something :)

Eye on the Prize?

2008-09-11T22:22:00.003-08:00

Goals. Those damn lofty goals which you are supposed to set, which secretly fester in the back of your mind even when you aren't willing to admit what they are. You know you're "supposed" to set goals, and meet goals. But why? Progress is the name of the game. We need to make continual progress in this society. Most people will try and make their goals related to their job...maybe a way to kill 2 birds with one stone? Well yeah, my goals have nothing to do with the jobs I am qualified to work. Some of them don't have anything to do with a job at all.

I guess the million dollar question is...what happens when you have to choose between financial security and your personal goals? If following a path you feel would better be served putting all your time and effort into conflicts with going into debt, or worrying about buying groceries, which path makes more sense?

This is my struggle. I took a job today that already seems stupid before I even get there. It isn't advancing any of the things on my "goal list for this year". Its just money. But since it isn't concrete, it could take 6 hours of every day of my week away from doing the things I committed to doing. Just what is the right thing to do?

Only time will tell, I suppose.

Big Mamma, the Urban Moose

2008-09-09T11:22:00.004-08:00

I was heading out to take the dog on a walk this morning, and heard a strange crunching sound as we were heading down the street. All of a sudden Big Mamma and her baby cross the road right in front of us! I was sooo thankful that my dog doesn't bark, as he just sat on the ground and watched these huge creatures parade in front of us. Then the "oh shit" kicked in and I quickly moved us back to our fenced yard. I'm not sure why a chain-link fence made me feel safer, seeing how Big Mamma could have stepped right over it. But hey. We went out the other door and took the long way to the path to go on our walk.

A good 45 minutes later, we came back and I figured the moose would have surely moved on by this time - but instead I found them lounging in the neighbor's backyard!! They looked totally comfy hanging out in the wet grass. I took the opportunity for a wonderful photo shoot after I put Logan back in the house. Moose are pretty awesome characters, slowly prodding their way around Anchorage. These city moose are pretty used to people & cars, and just go about their business in that "I'm bigger than you, stuff it" sort of way.

I went about my daily chores until I realized that the dog was missing and the crunching sound was back - REALLY close this time. Peeking out the back door, I found Big Mamma eating the tree right outside my gate - and the dog, totally unbothered by it all, was laying at the fence wall right under Big Mamma's feet, staring up at her in awe. It was, as the song puts it, "like Whoa".

Here's the thing. Logan has not a territorial bone in his body. He doesn't protect the house or the yard because he's always looking and hoping for friends. He'd rather have some huge moose to look at than hang out alone! He hasn't even learned to pee with his leg up, or pee on everything he passes...the dog just isn't normal :) Either way, it sort of freaked me out and I made him move, much to his dismay. Big Mamma eventually went to the tree next to my car - good eatin'!

The Anchorage Daily News

2008-09-07T11:16:00.001-08:00

One of the coolest parts of getting back to Alaska is my subscription to the Anchorage Daily News. I honestly can't describe why I love this newspaper so much, but I do. Alaskans are a unique (and awesome) bunch of people, and its reflected a bit in the news reporting.

Now, this little bit of news did not occur here, but it was reported here...probably because how can you NOT report something so hilarious?!

Robber Turns Victims Home Into Sausage Fest

Posted by: Michele Ebert in Odd News

Authorities say they’ve arrested a man who broke into the home of two California farmworkers, stole money, rubbed one with spices and whacked the other with a sausage before fleeing.

Fresno County sheriff’s Lt. Ian Burrimond says 22-year-old Antonio Vasquez was found hiding in a field wearing only a T-shirt, boxers and socks after the Saturday morning attack.
He says deputies arrested Vasquez after finding a wallet containing his ID in the ransacked house.

The farmworkers told deputies the suspect woke them Saturday morning by rubbing spices on one of them and smacking the other with an 8-inch sausage.

Now, we here at Caffeine Fueled love our insane news, but this is starting to top the insano-meter. Spicy rubs hurt like hell when you get them rubbed into your skin, but I can’t imagine that and an 8-inch long sausage coming across as threatening.

My personal guess? Our burgler friend was high on the marijuana and used his choice of munchies to try and score some more money to buy a hooker, take her to a fancy hotel, and push her out the window. Drugs do maddening things to the body, friends!

Busily Unemployed

2008-09-06T21:33:00.000-08:00

Most of you out there know what I've been up to for the past few months, but for the people who I just never talk to much anymore, here it goes:

July - Spent 3 weeks at Shoshoni Yoga School getting certified to teach yoga. It was a great time, but I was so burnt out on yoga when I left that I needed a serious break! I met some of the coolest people there and I do secretly hope that our Mexican Beach House Reunion happens as planned one day! haha.

August - Drove back to Alaska and got settled into our new house. Began to learn my way around the town again & reconnected with the few friends we still have up here. I started my dog training course and began practicing with Logan. He can now sit, lay down, shake, dance, roll over in a confused way, and wait. We are currently working on the beginning stages of teaching him to sniff out marajuana by hiding his toys around the house smeared with peanut butter. Soon we'll be able to find all our friend's stashes!!

September - Began school at UAA. I'm taking a 6 credit fitness leadership course that compliments what I've learned at yoga nicely. I'm also taking a 10 week Tax class which will qualify me to be that person at Liberty Mutual you drop off your taxes with since you don't feel like doing them. Don't ask me why. I'm wierd.

So between Dog Training, Fitness, and Tax classes, I'm about a 12 credit diversified student. And did I mention I LOVE it?! Theres something satisfying about taking all the classes you always wanted to take and never allowed yourself to. This is my year baby.

The new site

2008-09-06T09:09:00.001-08:00

Well folks, I've decided that my life has indeed taken a different turn from the excitement of Antarctica and all the travelling I've done over the past 4 years. And because of it, I feel that a new, separate blog is in order. I'll keep the old one up to remember all the craziness that used to be, but for now, I'm really enjoying being settled back in Alaska. I've got my own place and will be here for at least a year! Moving every 6 months was getting a bit old. So now, as I hang out with my own good coffee in my office on a Sunday morning, I'm enjoying the chance to gather my thoughts and puke them back out onto a newly organized network of webpages. I'm working on a brand new creation which will hopefully be up and running within the month which will link together the many web pages I've got.

For now, if you want to follow my slightly less exciting life online, the digital outhouse is the place to be! And comments are welcome. I think I disabled the function that makes you sign up to be able to comment.