Free Association...ramblings of my morning
So, this morning on the radio, I heard "Truly, Madly, Deeply" from Savage Garden, for some reason it reminded me of "Damn, I Wish I Was Your Lover" by Sophie B. Hawkins. From time to time, I get obsessed with finding the version of her singing this song with Melissa Etheridge. In the past, no luck, but now, with YouTube and MySpace, I have found not just one but two videos! Now, I have to say, I am a huge Melissa fan, and Sophie just oozes sexuality, put these two together on stage and it should be burning up, and it is..but...not quite with the intensity I expected from only hearing the song without the visuals. My interpretation is that Melissa was holding back or is a bit more shy about sexual suggestiveness than Sophie. Sophie is, well, not shy on stage. Damn!
Anyway, enjoy: http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=2019118261
So, after this, I started looking at videos of Melissa, because, well, why not?
I found this great one she did where she talks about writing the song for Al Gore's An Inconvenient Truth. Personal, moving, relevant - gotta love this woman, and the message: http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoID=1108254241
So, that's been my morning (minus the part where I did actual work - yes, still employed - don't know a lot more about my job status, but it is looking good - more on that topic eventually). A fun way to start the day!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
I am a Law Geek
Maybe this is obvious. Yesterday it really hit me though. I was having lunch, networking with two ALJs (Administrative Law Judges) from the Oregon Public Utilities Commission, and they were explaining how most people, not even their families understand what they do. (I will post the Wikipedia definition at the end of this post.) One of them says he used to say he was a laywer for the government, but he says that was like two strikes against him - "Oh, God, you work for the government and are a lawyer." It wasn't winning him points at cocktail parties...In my mind, however, I was saying, "Cool - a lawyer for the government!" It didn't strike me that most "normal" people may not think that sounds like a great job, and to me, an ALJ is an even more impressive job.
Yup, Law Geek, and as one of the people I was out with put it, a "Government Law Geek." Well, guess we all have to fit in somewhere. Perhaps I have found my niche :)
-----------------------------
An administrative law judge (ALJ) in the United States is an official who presides at an administrative trial-type hearing to resolve a dispute between a government agency and someone affected by a decision of that agency. The ALJ is the initial trier of fact and decision maker. ALJs can administer oaths, take testimony, rule on questions of evidence, and make factual and legal determinations.[1] ALJ-controlled proceedings are comparable to a bench trial, but with simplified and less formal procedures.
Maybe this is obvious. Yesterday it really hit me though. I was having lunch, networking with two ALJs (Administrative Law Judges) from the Oregon Public Utilities Commission, and they were explaining how most people, not even their families understand what they do. (I will post the Wikipedia definition at the end of this post.) One of them says he used to say he was a laywer for the government, but he says that was like two strikes against him - "Oh, God, you work for the government and are a lawyer." It wasn't winning him points at cocktail parties...In my mind, however, I was saying, "Cool - a lawyer for the government!" It didn't strike me that most "normal" people may not think that sounds like a great job, and to me, an ALJ is an even more impressive job.
Yup, Law Geek, and as one of the people I was out with put it, a "Government Law Geek." Well, guess we all have to fit in somewhere. Perhaps I have found my niche :)
-----------------------------
An administrative law judge (ALJ) in the United States is an official who presides at an administrative trial-type hearing to resolve a dispute between a government agency and someone affected by a decision of that agency. The ALJ is the initial trier of fact and decision maker. ALJs can administer oaths, take testimony, rule on questions of evidence, and make factual and legal determinations.[1] ALJ-controlled proceedings are comparable to a bench trial, but with simplified and less formal procedures.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Boys are Weird.
I love my son dearly - I really, really do. This weekend, however, I realized that apparently 5 is the age at which the reasons that girls think boys are weird become apparent. For instance, yesterday after playing a treasure-hunt/adventure game with said 5-year old, I told him it was time that I play with his sister, a 2-year-old girl. We started playing with a dollhouse, and he asked if he could play, too. Of course, I told him. Soon, our game of setting up furniture and putting the dog in the dog house, turned into sliding toys off the top of the doll house, and using pieces of furniture or action figures to totally destroy the contents of the house. His destructive tendencies were in fine form!
Later, we were playing with a wooden train set. We set up a track and all three of us were rolling trains along the track when suddenly - EARTHQUAKE! The entire track was being ripped apart as part of the game. I convinced my son he needed to leave his sister's part of the track alone so she could continue playing and he could do whatever he wanted with his part. The trains started crashing....a single piece of his sister's track was removed to see what the train crash would look like..etc. I thought to myself, "Oh, right - boys are weird." My son is weird. Still, I love him, and know we will do our best to allow him to be himself, play in the ways he needs to, while focussing and limiting the destructiveness as much as possible. I guess the challenge of two moms raising a boy are just beginning. So far, so good...
I love my son dearly - I really, really do. This weekend, however, I realized that apparently 5 is the age at which the reasons that girls think boys are weird become apparent. For instance, yesterday after playing a treasure-hunt/adventure game with said 5-year old, I told him it was time that I play with his sister, a 2-year-old girl. We started playing with a dollhouse, and he asked if he could play, too. Of course, I told him. Soon, our game of setting up furniture and putting the dog in the dog house, turned into sliding toys off the top of the doll house, and using pieces of furniture or action figures to totally destroy the contents of the house. His destructive tendencies were in fine form!
Later, we were playing with a wooden train set. We set up a track and all three of us were rolling trains along the track when suddenly - EARTHQUAKE! The entire track was being ripped apart as part of the game. I convinced my son he needed to leave his sister's part of the track alone so she could continue playing and he could do whatever he wanted with his part. The trains started crashing....a single piece of his sister's track was removed to see what the train crash would look like..etc. I thought to myself, "Oh, right - boys are weird." My son is weird. Still, I love him, and know we will do our best to allow him to be himself, play in the ways he needs to, while focussing and limiting the destructiveness as much as possible. I guess the challenge of two moms raising a boy are just beginning. So far, so good...
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Welcome Home Family!!!
Figuring most people that read my blog also read my partner's, I neglected to reveal the very important fact that my wife and kids are now back at home, after 5 weeks away. It has been tough for us all, especially my wife, who was away from home to be with her dying mother. It is a time of loss and sadness, yet we are grateful she was able to be with her mom and family, where she really needed to be. Not all people are able to do this. I'm sure this has given her some sense of peace and "rightness," even as things seemed so wrong.
I'm glad she could go, but am happy now to have my family back home!
Welcome home, my sweet loved ones!
Figuring most people that read my blog also read my partner's, I neglected to reveal the very important fact that my wife and kids are now back at home, after 5 weeks away. It has been tough for us all, especially my wife, who was away from home to be with her dying mother. It is a time of loss and sadness, yet we are grateful she was able to be with her mom and family, where she really needed to be. Not all people are able to do this. I'm sure this has given her some sense of peace and "rightness," even as things seemed so wrong.
I'm glad she could go, but am happy now to have my family back home!
Welcome home, my sweet loved ones!
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Retail Therapy - REI-Style
OK, so I mentioned last week that I was about to go on a shopping expedition. I did and it was so much fun! I'd not been to the local, and quite new, REI store, so having a gift certificate to spend was a perfect excuse. Now, we are not particularly big outdoors/camping/hiking kind of people. We camp occasionally, but not since having two kids. I have a desire to kayak - again, kids make it rather difficult. Biking - not so much. Still - there is SO MUCH at REI to look at - flashlights, backpacks, shoes, jackets, outdoor toys - TONS!
Here is what I finally decided upon - some things for me and something for the whole family to enjoy: A watch (I unofficially collect watches), a pouch (we are arguing that it is a purse, which it is not - it hold my wallet, keys and my cell phone for when I am meeting with folks all dressed up and have no appropriate pockets), and "Is that a hamster ball?" No - it is an ice cream maker! How fun will that be to kick around the yard with the kids?
Thanks to my gift certificate-giving friend! The experience was a welcome escape!
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Exams are over, class schedule craziness and more...
I have just spent the better part of 5 hours studying and trying to piece together possible class schedule options for next year.
There are three possibilities I must take into consideration:
1) If I have the flexibility to take day classes, but can't get into the clinic I want to take because it is overloaded
2) If I have flexibility to take day classes and can take the clinic I want to take
3) If I have to take all night classes because I'm in a new job that won't allow me flexibility of taking a day class/clinic
So, I've been trying to fill in all the options, get the right numbers of credits, manage conflicting class times, make sure I am getting the classes I need to earn the Environmental Law Certificate, plus balance it out with Bar subjects, blah, blah, blah. I've about got it worked out, but there are no contingencies for NOT getting into any of my desired classes. So, I have to get in to everything I want to take.
As you may have figured out, I still do not know if I will continue to have a job where I currently work. Maybe they will tell us next week. In the mean time, I am networking my b*tt off! I am asking everyone I know if they know anyone in the environmental field that might know of any open positions, or just who know a lot of people to whom they could refer me. I am hoping to find a job similar to a project coordinator, possibly working with contracts...anything to get some experience in the field. A law clerk job would be good, but it would need to pay at least $20/hour and I understand those positions are hard to come by. Even that wage would hurt our family income, though not as much as being unemployed. I could do it if I worked 40 hours rather than 32.
I'm avoiding the hard stuff here, the issues I have no control over - the family issues. My partner's mother passed away last Friday. She went peacefully, after what had been a rather rapid decline over the last few months, and a very rough last month. It is sad, but given the circumstances, everyone is relieved she is finally at peace. The funeral will be this Saturday.
My dad is declining....well, they are trying to get him stable enough that he can go live with my sister for a time, until he needs a higher level of care. Dealing with the Medicaid system, and the docs and nurses employed by such, is proving very frustrating for my sister who is the one trying to navigate it. Now that finals are over, and my family will soon be home (Yeah!), I can hopefully help out some, at least by making some phone calls, or helping her organize her thoughts and questions. She is overwhelmed, out of her own environment, frustrated, and sad. I think she is having a hard time right now being an effective advocate. It is always easier to see things clearly from a distance, where you can step away from the harsh realities of "the system" and the fact that your loved one is dying.
On that happy note....
No, wait, I really can't leave it like this. OK - happy thoughts:
FINALS are OVER!! I am officially a 3rd year law student!
I will get to be at home with my family for dinner every night, and tuck the little ones in bed every night!
Summer is arriving and the beautiful weather is so uplifting!
I am about to sneak out and see if I can spend the gift certificate for REI that a wonderful friend gave me for my birthday. I told her I'd be doing some retail therapy once finals were over. Now is my chance!
Happy Weekend everybody! (I leave for Seattle in the morning, so it is almost like my weekend.)
I have just spent the better part of 5 hours studying and trying to piece together possible class schedule options for next year.
There are three possibilities I must take into consideration:
1) If I have the flexibility to take day classes, but can't get into the clinic I want to take because it is overloaded
2) If I have flexibility to take day classes and can take the clinic I want to take
3) If I have to take all night classes because I'm in a new job that won't allow me flexibility of taking a day class/clinic
So, I've been trying to fill in all the options, get the right numbers of credits, manage conflicting class times, make sure I am getting the classes I need to earn the Environmental Law Certificate, plus balance it out with Bar subjects, blah, blah, blah. I've about got it worked out, but there are no contingencies for NOT getting into any of my desired classes. So, I have to get in to everything I want to take.
As you may have figured out, I still do not know if I will continue to have a job where I currently work. Maybe they will tell us next week. In the mean time, I am networking my b*tt off! I am asking everyone I know if they know anyone in the environmental field that might know of any open positions, or just who know a lot of people to whom they could refer me. I am hoping to find a job similar to a project coordinator, possibly working with contracts...anything to get some experience in the field. A law clerk job would be good, but it would need to pay at least $20/hour and I understand those positions are hard to come by. Even that wage would hurt our family income, though not as much as being unemployed. I could do it if I worked 40 hours rather than 32.
I'm avoiding the hard stuff here, the issues I have no control over - the family issues. My partner's mother passed away last Friday. She went peacefully, after what had been a rather rapid decline over the last few months, and a very rough last month. It is sad, but given the circumstances, everyone is relieved she is finally at peace. The funeral will be this Saturday.
My dad is declining....well, they are trying to get him stable enough that he can go live with my sister for a time, until he needs a higher level of care. Dealing with the Medicaid system, and the docs and nurses employed by such, is proving very frustrating for my sister who is the one trying to navigate it. Now that finals are over, and my family will soon be home (Yeah!), I can hopefully help out some, at least by making some phone calls, or helping her organize her thoughts and questions. She is overwhelmed, out of her own environment, frustrated, and sad. I think she is having a hard time right now being an effective advocate. It is always easier to see things clearly from a distance, where you can step away from the harsh realities of "the system" and the fact that your loved one is dying.
On that happy note....
No, wait, I really can't leave it like this. OK - happy thoughts:
FINALS are OVER!! I am officially a 3rd year law student!
I will get to be at home with my family for dinner every night, and tuck the little ones in bed every night!
Summer is arriving and the beautiful weather is so uplifting!
I am about to sneak out and see if I can spend the gift certificate for REI that a wonderful friend gave me for my birthday. I told her I'd be doing some retail therapy once finals were over. Now is my chance!
Happy Weekend everybody! (I leave for Seattle in the morning, so it is almost like my weekend.)
Thursday, May 03, 2007
One down – two to go!
I took my Admin Law final last night. I feel good about it. I did not stare blankly at the page wondering what the heck to write, so that is always good. I do have a theory though that almost everyone leaves most finals feeling pretty good. Most of us do well…..so it is hard to have a good sense of if you did better than most or about the same. Oh, well. I did my best and now I’m on to the next. I will take Evidence and Con Law II next week.
So, where the heck have I been? Life has gotten crazy. For those of you who read my partner’s blog, you already know. Her mother is dying so she has been living in a hotel with our kids up near Seattle for the past three week so she can be close to her mom. It’s a total roller coaster ride, and not the fun kind. The kids and her are SO READY to be home, it is draining and sad and exhausting. The only good parts are that she is able to be with her brother and sister and all experience this together and they have really helped out a lot with the kids. Her brother’s girlfriend has been wonderful with them, trying to keep them occupied while Casey is with her mom, and accompanying them on fun outings, like to the Science Center. Of course, the kids, especially the little one, won’t let Casey out of their site for long, so it is all still very much a challenge.
I go up and visit on weekends. We all miss each other very much.
A week into this I found out the department where I work is being eliminated and my job may or may not remain. Great timing.
Later that day, I found out that my dad has been hospitalized and has terminal cancer.
WHOA! Enough! Done with bad news now.
At least Dad is up within about 15 minutes from Casey’s mom, so that is working out well to visit him when I go up on the weekends.
I was pretty shaken for a bit, but hey, I have to move on with life, right?
So, I am acting as if my job will go away, and contacting everyone I know that might know people that work in the environmental field – sustainability, alternate energy sources, regulation compliance, green spaces, anything! I figure it is time to get some relevant experience. I plan to specialize in environmental law – and will either practice or do administration when I graduate. I think working for the EPA would be fun. Anyway, if YOU know of anyone in the PDX area who might be looking for a project coordinator, or a legal clerk (legal experience would be good, too!), or a combination of administrative and legal work – please let me know!
Ideally, I will get a great job offer and find out that my current job will remain as is. I LOVE choices!
To all my law student friends – good luck on finals and have a great summer!
I took my Admin Law final last night. I feel good about it. I did not stare blankly at the page wondering what the heck to write, so that is always good. I do have a theory though that almost everyone leaves most finals feeling pretty good. Most of us do well…..so it is hard to have a good sense of if you did better than most or about the same. Oh, well. I did my best and now I’m on to the next. I will take Evidence and Con Law II next week.
So, where the heck have I been? Life has gotten crazy. For those of you who read my partner’s blog, you already know. Her mother is dying so she has been living in a hotel with our kids up near Seattle for the past three week so she can be close to her mom. It’s a total roller coaster ride, and not the fun kind. The kids and her are SO READY to be home, it is draining and sad and exhausting. The only good parts are that she is able to be with her brother and sister and all experience this together and they have really helped out a lot with the kids. Her brother’s girlfriend has been wonderful with them, trying to keep them occupied while Casey is with her mom, and accompanying them on fun outings, like to the Science Center. Of course, the kids, especially the little one, won’t let Casey out of their site for long, so it is all still very much a challenge.
I go up and visit on weekends. We all miss each other very much.
A week into this I found out the department where I work is being eliminated and my job may or may not remain. Great timing.
Later that day, I found out that my dad has been hospitalized and has terminal cancer.
WHOA! Enough! Done with bad news now.
At least Dad is up within about 15 minutes from Casey’s mom, so that is working out well to visit him when I go up on the weekends.
I was pretty shaken for a bit, but hey, I have to move on with life, right?
So, I am acting as if my job will go away, and contacting everyone I know that might know people that work in the environmental field – sustainability, alternate energy sources, regulation compliance, green spaces, anything! I figure it is time to get some relevant experience. I plan to specialize in environmental law – and will either practice or do administration when I graduate. I think working for the EPA would be fun. Anyway, if YOU know of anyone in the PDX area who might be looking for a project coordinator, or a legal clerk (legal experience would be good, too!), or a combination of administrative and legal work – please let me know!
Ideally, I will get a great job offer and find out that my current job will remain as is. I LOVE choices!
To all my law student friends – good luck on finals and have a great summer!
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Al Gore is a Funny Guy
Am I the last person to realize this? Probably not - so let me share.
I saw part of An Inconvenient Truth a couple weeks ago. I want to see the whole thing soon, and I will, but I found something related today. It is a video of his presentation to TED in Feb. of 2006 before the movie was released (TED - Technology Entertainment Design - annual conference of 1000+ movers and shakers). He is really quite entertaining. I never thought much about Al Gore. My mistake.
Check out the video:
http://www.ted.com/tedtalks/tedtalksplayer.cfm?key=al_gore
Am I the last person to realize this? Probably not - so let me share.
I saw part of An Inconvenient Truth a couple weeks ago. I want to see the whole thing soon, and I will, but I found something related today. It is a video of his presentation to TED in Feb. of 2006 before the movie was released (TED - Technology Entertainment Design - annual conference of 1000+ movers and shakers). He is really quite entertaining. I never thought much about Al Gore. My mistake.
Check out the video:
http://www.ted.com/tedtalks/tedtalksplayer.cfm?key=al_gore
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
The L-Word Withdrawal
Here it is, only April, and already the fourth season of my favorite show has come and gone for another year. 13 episodes is not enough. Where else do I get to see women who love women just living life and being normal? OK, so they are not totally normal in that almost all of them are really hot, but hey, this is TV and THAT is Entertainment!
For others out there, wishing the season was not over, Showtime is giving us lots more goodies in the form of Our Chart. There are interviews, podcasts, photos and lots of other fun stuff. This is the one I just discovered today:
http://www.ourchart.com/node/77693
Kate Moennig and Alex Hedison on the same stage. Need I say more?
Here it is, only April, and already the fourth season of my favorite show has come and gone for another year. 13 episodes is not enough. Where else do I get to see women who love women just living life and being normal? OK, so they are not totally normal in that almost all of them are really hot, but hey, this is TV and THAT is Entertainment!
For others out there, wishing the season was not over, Showtime is giving us lots more goodies in the form of Our Chart. There are interviews, podcasts, photos and lots of other fun stuff. This is the one I just discovered today:
http://www.ourchart.com/node/77693
Kate Moennig and Alex Hedison on the same stage. Need I say more?
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Cell Phone Etiquette
aka: C'mon People!
Yes, I am older than many students at my school.
Yes, I remember a time before cell phones.
Yes, my parents taught me to respect other people.
It may be that I am unique because of these things, but I could not be the only person that does not want to hear people's private conversations in a public location. (Especially if they aren't particularly interesting.) I was in our student lounge area a couple evenings ago, eating dinner and reading some material for class. It was quite late and there were only a few people in the relatively large space, but since most of the seating is close together, privacy is a mere illusion.
A fellow classmate (I assume he belonged there anyway, though his behavior made me question his maturity) received a call on his cell phone. He was obviously upset and proceeded to engage in a fight with a significant other. About every other LOUD word was "F**k" and the repetition of some unkind phrase that the other person had apparently used on him and he was now using as a weapon. I learned that what he does is no longer any of the other person's business. It appeared that it was MINE though, since I was hearing all about it. I thought when it became obvious that this was going to be a lengthy and personal discussion, he would leave the public area. I thought this person would probably not want another person who might someday be a professional colleague, to hear the details of his personal life or his foul language. I was wrong.
I considered leaving, since he was disrupting my reading, but also didn't think I should be the one to have to leave. Finally, after about 5-10 minutes, another classmate entered the area. OK, the Loud Phone Caller will realize there are now two of us hearing his drama and he will take his phone outside. Again, I was wrong.
Much to my amazement, this other person started making a phone call on his cell phone, and he put it on speaker phone! Had he done it after listening to the first caller's conversation, I might have believed he was making a point, but no. He sat down and immediately connected to his call on speaker phone so he could set up his computer.
HELLO!! Common courtesy people!! Let's show some respect for each other. Unless you are a celebrity, most people do not want to hear about your private life, nor do they wish to hear you exclaim obscenities. Also, as we are repeatedly reminded of, the area in which we live contains a very small law community. Our professional reputation really does start the day we enter law school. How do you want to be remembered when you are facing a former classmate across a negotiation table, or a courtroom, or a hiring partner's desk? Think about it, and take your phone calls outside.
aka: C'mon People!
Yes, I am older than many students at my school.
Yes, I remember a time before cell phones.
Yes, my parents taught me to respect other people.
It may be that I am unique because of these things, but I could not be the only person that does not want to hear people's private conversations in a public location. (Especially if they aren't particularly interesting.) I was in our student lounge area a couple evenings ago, eating dinner and reading some material for class. It was quite late and there were only a few people in the relatively large space, but since most of the seating is close together, privacy is a mere illusion.
A fellow classmate (I assume he belonged there anyway, though his behavior made me question his maturity) received a call on his cell phone. He was obviously upset and proceeded to engage in a fight with a significant other. About every other LOUD word was "F**k" and the repetition of some unkind phrase that the other person had apparently used on him and he was now using as a weapon. I learned that what he does is no longer any of the other person's business. It appeared that it was MINE though, since I was hearing all about it. I thought when it became obvious that this was going to be a lengthy and personal discussion, he would leave the public area. I thought this person would probably not want another person who might someday be a professional colleague, to hear the details of his personal life or his foul language. I was wrong.
I considered leaving, since he was disrupting my reading, but also didn't think I should be the one to have to leave. Finally, after about 5-10 minutes, another classmate entered the area. OK, the Loud Phone Caller will realize there are now two of us hearing his drama and he will take his phone outside. Again, I was wrong.
Much to my amazement, this other person started making a phone call on his cell phone, and he put it on speaker phone! Had he done it after listening to the first caller's conversation, I might have believed he was making a point, but no. He sat down and immediately connected to his call on speaker phone so he could set up his computer.
HELLO!! Common courtesy people!! Let's show some respect for each other. Unless you are a celebrity, most people do not want to hear about your private life, nor do they wish to hear you exclaim obscenities. Also, as we are repeatedly reminded of, the area in which we live contains a very small law community. Our professional reputation really does start the day we enter law school. How do you want to be remembered when you are facing a former classmate across a negotiation table, or a courtroom, or a hiring partner's desk? Think about it, and take your phone calls outside.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
My Little Paint Monster
Is this cute, or what?
Wife has found the best way to let the kids play with paint is in the bathtub where all can be washed off relatively easily. I've even made them homemade fingerpaints for just such an occassion - gets double-duty as an activity; first it's a kitchen project, then it moves into an art project - heck, add bubbles at the end and you get extra Mommy Points for a fun bubble bath!
This is my current background picture at work. I just love it!
Warning: Slow Blogger Ahead (or is that "Behind"?)
Seriously - my last post was March 1? That was 2 weeks ago. Crazy - irresponsible - boring. My wife has informed me, more than once, that she is BORED with my blog. What's a blogger to do?
Blog, clearly.
Blog clearly?
Clearly, blog?
Anyway, so what have I got?
Well, I've had a cold for the last several days, leaving me completely drained.
Today, I feel pretty good. Plus, the sun is trying to shine through the clouds, and that's a very welcome sight. I am DONE with winter. Bring on the sunshine. Done with dreary weather!
I'm on a quest to find "the most interesting area of law." OK, so I know there is no single answer to this question. Well, there is, but it's "it depends," as in, depends on who you are asking. Let me be more specific - I'm questing for myself. I am plagued by both being interested in a LOT of things, and nothing specifically :) Vague enough? Actually, I think I put it more succinctly over lunch today with an actual, practicing lawyer: I am plagued by a short attention span and a really good imagination. For every area of intersest, I can easily picture both the really interesting parts, and the parts that will drive me crazy. So, anyway, I am going to lot of presentations and plan on talking to practicing attorneys in various fields to find out what their daily life is really like. There is life after law school, or so I am told, so I best start envisioning what it will be for me.
If I can see it, I can become it!
Seriously - my last post was March 1? That was 2 weeks ago. Crazy - irresponsible - boring. My wife has informed me, more than once, that she is BORED with my blog. What's a blogger to do?
Blog, clearly.
Blog clearly?
Clearly, blog?
Anyway, so what have I got?
Well, I've had a cold for the last several days, leaving me completely drained.
Today, I feel pretty good. Plus, the sun is trying to shine through the clouds, and that's a very welcome sight. I am DONE with winter. Bring on the sunshine. Done with dreary weather!
I'm on a quest to find "the most interesting area of law." OK, so I know there is no single answer to this question. Well, there is, but it's "it depends," as in, depends on who you are asking. Let me be more specific - I'm questing for myself. I am plagued by both being interested in a LOT of things, and nothing specifically :) Vague enough? Actually, I think I put it more succinctly over lunch today with an actual, practicing lawyer: I am plagued by a short attention span and a really good imagination. For every area of intersest, I can easily picture both the really interesting parts, and the parts that will drive me crazy. So, anyway, I am going to lot of presentations and plan on talking to practicing attorneys in various fields to find out what their daily life is really like. There is life after law school, or so I am told, so I best start envisioning what it will be for me.
If I can see it, I can become it!
Thursday, March 01, 2007
The Low Stars
This post is for my wife, who loves the new theme song to What About Brian.
Check out this group: http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=112336505
Their sound is successfully attempting to be reminiscent of The Eagles and Crosby, Stills and Nash. I like what I've heard so far, and maybe you will too. Low Stars' CD is currently available only at Starbucks.
This post is for my wife, who loves the new theme song to What About Brian.
Check out this group: http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=112336505
Their sound is successfully attempting to be reminiscent of The Eagles and Crosby, Stills and Nash. I like what I've heard so far, and maybe you will too. Low Stars' CD is currently available only at Starbucks.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Gay Marriage - Great Commercials
These commericals for www.equalmarriage.org are wonderful, especially the top two! I'm not sure how old they are, but are certainly just as pertinent today as a few years ago, especially with Massachusettes leglislatures trying to put an amendment into their constitution defining marriage as one man and one woman. They are currently the only state in the U.S. to allow full marriage for same-sex couples.
http://www.hsiproductions.com/directors/maxvitali/mv013007.aspx
(I was only able to view through Mozilla Firefox, but others may have better luck than I did.)
Thanks for showing me these, Jen!
Enjoy!
These commericals for www.equalmarriage.org are wonderful, especially the top two! I'm not sure how old they are, but are certainly just as pertinent today as a few years ago, especially with Massachusettes leglislatures trying to put an amendment into their constitution defining marriage as one man and one woman. They are currently the only state in the U.S. to allow full marriage for same-sex couples.
http://www.hsiproductions.com/directors/maxvitali/mv013007.aspx
(I was only able to view through Mozilla Firefox, but others may have better luck than I did.)
Thanks for showing me these, Jen!
Enjoy!
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Crazy Mom?
Built swingset in the cold and rain.
All weekend.
Crazy.
Fun.
Kids love it.
Yahoo!
Pictures:
http://naptimechronical.blogspot.com/2007/02/17-hours-later.html
Built swingset in the cold and rain.
All weekend.
Crazy.
Fun.
Kids love it.
Yahoo!
Pictures:
http://naptimechronical.blogspot.com/2007/02/17-hours-later.html
Thursday, February 22, 2007
The picture - Law School Mama in Glasses:
Yup. This is me in my new specs, photo courtesty of my generous and thoughtful wife who, after having read my last post, greeted me at the door with a camera. Let me remind you all this was at 10:00 at night, and seemed an odd time for a photo shoot, but hey, that's life as a law student, right?
Thanks, honey. This will look great next to my column. I don't know what column, but it looks like the kind of photo that should be next to a syndicated column....or a dust jacket. Yes, that would be good!
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
What - nothing to say about the L Word?
OK, so, we watched it a day late this week, so I am a little behind.
We took a totally spontaneous trip to the beach - which was wonderful and horrible and trying and joyous, as times with little ones can be - so we were not at home on Sunday night. Still - I don't have much to say about this week's episode. Alice and Tanya are cute together. I don't really see it working long-term because of serious political and lifestyle differences, but who knows what the writers will decide? (I once had a boyfriend, in my younger and straighter days, who was planning to be career military. I thought it was clear we were never going to be serious, but after dating on and off for about 2 years - more off than on - he was shocked when I broke up with him. He thought we'd get married some day. I was at the most liberal school in Washington state and he was in the ROTC at a traditional university. What part of that said "compatible"?) What else - Bette and Jodi - hot - yes. Jodi's likely to break Bette's heart though. Shane - finally - about to have sex again - but then, no. Damn. Oh, well, I don't think she's got much chemistry with her new love interest anyway.
Beach trip -fun! See photos here.
Have any of you other law students realized we are already at a point that we should be outlining lest we fall terribly behind and have to do a LOT all at once? Got to get those puppies started!
I have my first pair of glasses. I like to think it is the incredible amout of reading we do in law school that caused the need. I've been unable to adjust so far. They are primarily for reading. They make my eyes hurt, give me a headache....sad part is, my eyes are starting to hurt even if I am not wearing them and haven't tried to in 2 days. Guess I need to just suck it up and wear them everyday, at least for a couple hours when reading. I will adjust, I suspect. Do they make me look smart? (This is where I'd add in a picture of me with them on if I had one, but I don't.) You will just have to use your imagination!
OK, so, we watched it a day late this week, so I am a little behind.
We took a totally spontaneous trip to the beach - which was wonderful and horrible and trying and joyous, as times with little ones can be - so we were not at home on Sunday night. Still - I don't have much to say about this week's episode. Alice and Tanya are cute together. I don't really see it working long-term because of serious political and lifestyle differences, but who knows what the writers will decide? (I once had a boyfriend, in my younger and straighter days, who was planning to be career military. I thought it was clear we were never going to be serious, but after dating on and off for about 2 years - more off than on - he was shocked when I broke up with him. He thought we'd get married some day. I was at the most liberal school in Washington state and he was in the ROTC at a traditional university. What part of that said "compatible"?) What else - Bette and Jodi - hot - yes. Jodi's likely to break Bette's heart though. Shane - finally - about to have sex again - but then, no. Damn. Oh, well, I don't think she's got much chemistry with her new love interest anyway.
Beach trip -fun! See photos here.
Have any of you other law students realized we are already at a point that we should be outlining lest we fall terribly behind and have to do a LOT all at once? Got to get those puppies started!
I have my first pair of glasses. I like to think it is the incredible amout of reading we do in law school that caused the need. I've been unable to adjust so far. They are primarily for reading. They make my eyes hurt, give me a headache....sad part is, my eyes are starting to hurt even if I am not wearing them and haven't tried to in 2 days. Guess I need to just suck it up and wear them everyday, at least for a couple hours when reading. I will adjust, I suspect. Do they make me look smart? (This is where I'd add in a picture of me with them on if I had one, but I don't.) You will just have to use your imagination!
Monday, February 12, 2007
More than The L Word
OK, so I get that the highlight of my life should not be the new episode of The L Word. Yet, it is a nice time of the week - kids are asleep after a fun (and usually exhausting) weekend, wife and I finally have some quiet time together, and there, on our tv, in our very own living room, is something that though it may not exactly represent our lives, is about people like us. It's about women who love women, and who don't need a man to make them happy or complete. It's about hanging out with people who get that and it's just the way life is - no questions, no judgments, no taking on the world - well, not about their sexuality, anyway.
But - what I was actually getting at is this: though I am loving The L Word, with Shane's mysterious powers of attraction, Jenny's lunacy and Bette and Jody totally becoming the hot couple of the show, here was the highlight of my weekend. Baby Girl turned Two:
http://naptimechronical.blogspot.com/2007/02/birthday-party-ill-write-all-about-it.html
Happy Birthday, Baby Girl! Your Mama is amazed by you and thinks you are the most adorable thing in the whole wide world.
Ah, now this is real life. Going from hot lesbians to babies and motherhood in 1.75 seconds. THIS is "the way that we live, and love" (to quote the somewhat obnoxious theme song).
OK, so I get that the highlight of my life should not be the new episode of The L Word. Yet, it is a nice time of the week - kids are asleep after a fun (and usually exhausting) weekend, wife and I finally have some quiet time together, and there, on our tv, in our very own living room, is something that though it may not exactly represent our lives, is about people like us. It's about women who love women, and who don't need a man to make them happy or complete. It's about hanging out with people who get that and it's just the way life is - no questions, no judgments, no taking on the world - well, not about their sexuality, anyway.
But - what I was actually getting at is this: though I am loving The L Word, with Shane's mysterious powers of attraction, Jenny's lunacy and Bette and Jody totally becoming the hot couple of the show, here was the highlight of my weekend. Baby Girl turned Two:
http://naptimechronical.blogspot.com/2007/02/birthday-party-ill-write-all-about-it.html
Happy Birthday, Baby Girl! Your Mama is amazed by you and thinks you are the most adorable thing in the whole wide world.
Ah, now this is real life. Going from hot lesbians to babies and motherhood in 1.75 seconds. THIS is "the way that we live, and love" (to quote the somewhat obnoxious theme song).
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Baby Girl Turning Two
How can it be that the tiny baby struggling for breath in the nursery, screaming at the top of her lungs days later (because she could, I guess), falling asleep on my chest at night because her startle response was so severe that she'd wake herself up if we laid her down flat, is turning two? How can that tiny baby now be forming complex thoughts, simple sentences and carrying on complete conversations? I don't know how it can be, but it is. Baby Girl is turning two, and in just a couple months, her brother turns five. It hardly seems possible. Our little family of two has grown to a perfect-sized family of four. It's weird to think how two people can bring their lives together and consciously decide to make more people - make whole people from virtually nothing. How incredible is that? What I suppose is even more incredible is that we've done it as two women without the "involvement" of a man. We're participating in changing the definition of what a family is and what marriage is. We don't need the law to acknowledge that, we don't need right-wing Christians to approve of it, we're just doing it. It is. We're living our lives as best we can, struggling with the usual challenges of parenthood and life in general, and just being in this world because at some point many years ago two sets of two other people got together and decided to create more people. How cool is that?
How can it be that the tiny baby struggling for breath in the nursery, screaming at the top of her lungs days later (because she could, I guess), falling asleep on my chest at night because her startle response was so severe that she'd wake herself up if we laid her down flat, is turning two? How can that tiny baby now be forming complex thoughts, simple sentences and carrying on complete conversations? I don't know how it can be, but it is. Baby Girl is turning two, and in just a couple months, her brother turns five. It hardly seems possible. Our little family of two has grown to a perfect-sized family of four. It's weird to think how two people can bring their lives together and consciously decide to make more people - make whole people from virtually nothing. How incredible is that? What I suppose is even more incredible is that we've done it as two women without the "involvement" of a man. We're participating in changing the definition of what a family is and what marriage is. We don't need the law to acknowledge that, we don't need right-wing Christians to approve of it, we're just doing it. It is. We're living our lives as best we can, struggling with the usual challenges of parenthood and life in general, and just being in this world because at some point many years ago two sets of two other people got together and decided to create more people. How cool is that?
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