Day 90 - Became an Angel

A Charlie's Angel. As a laugh for a sick co-worker, the folks at my old company were taping skits of old TV shows. I'm in. I got to be a Charlie's Angel - not sure which one, but one that runs in slow-motion and uses karate.

Day 89 - Skipped the story

The institution locked its doors at night so no one would learn all the secrets stacked inside. The blinds were drawn, the lights shut off. The people were gone but the machine was still whirling. Once the clock changed to 12:00, the machine showed no sympathy. Good people were marked, their crime - and penalty - growing larger with each minute. There was no return.

It seems three weeks is just not enough for me to finish a book and return it to the library on time. With three days left, I was only half way through a 400-page book. I read books cover to cover but in my panic to finish, I started skimming paragraphs. Then skipping paragraphs. Then avoiding full pages. Gasp!

Day 88 - Sick day

It was a busy day, full of catching up with people and researching stuff. But on top of that, I had a headache that wouldn't quit. No motivation to do anything past the bare minimum. Be back tomorrow.

Day 87 - Lost badly at mini golf + a recap

Not far from where Mr. Sound and I used to live is a "family entertainment center." The place that has mini golf, arcade games, go karts. On especially slow days, we would play mini golf, which I soon found was the only game in which I could beat Mr. Sound. I defended my title for years. Until today.

I finished 8 under Mr. Sound, and he wasn't even at par on most holes. *Sigh* Just wasn't my day. But you haven't seen the last of me - I'll come back and take the title again, mark my words...

Recap of the week:

~ a guy doing his best Bob Dylan impression, singing with harmonica and guitar, on his front stoop

~ a sun shower

~ the best cream puff I've ever had (Pacific Puffs classic)

Day 86 - Spring snowboarding

I have certainly snowboarded in the spring before. But this was the first time back after a six-week hiatus for my torn calf muscle. I was nervous. I was overly-sensitive to any strange feeling in my calf, but didn't need to be. Everything was fine, though my leg was overly tired when I was done. It was a gorgeous, warm day so I was so happy to be back on the mountain.

Day 85 - Visited the Warming Hut

Just like City Lights Books, I have passed by the Warming Hut hundreds of times. It is a cute stop along the way from Crissy Field to the Golden Gate Bridge. It's a cafe, bookstore, and gift shop combined. Don't ever need any of that stuff while running by during a workout. But today I got a lemonade and a photo.

Day 84 - Socialized my business

Not economically - technologically. Today, I posted my first article on our new company blog. That was then advertised on our new Facebook fan page. And of course, I twittered about it (but that's not a new occurrence) And on LinkedIn, I connected to all the great people I met at last night's networking event. Whew. This stuff takes time. But it's really fun and I feel we are making progress.

And my company? Well, yes, I never did explain that to you. My biz partner and I started our own creative writing and marketing company last year. I've been working from my kitchen table for a few months now. It is a dream come true. With clients, it will be even better. ;-)

And you probably didn't know this, either, but Aidan Rose is not my real name. It's my stage name, from my music days. Those days are not gone, just on hiatus. This blog has allowed me to live on with her, as I build my company under my professional (real) name. For now, I'd like to keep those separate - writing in obscurity is freedom for the timid.

Day 83 - Visited City Lights Books

Standing proudly on Columbus near the corner of debauchery, City Lights has been defending free speech since 1953. It was a standard stop for the beatniks in the 1960s, and alternative thinkers of today. And who would not stand behind a local, independent bookstore? C'mon.

With all this going for it, I never visited. In eight years of San Francisco residence and hundreds of pass-bys, I was uninspired (and a bit intimidated) to go in. Until today. I was greeted by nooks of books covering gardening to anarchy, with a large fiction section of atypical authors. Actually, no, it's really a large atypical fiction section of authors. Slaughterhouse-Five was mandatory reading in school, but never have I seen Vonnegut's full collection of stories, in triplicate. Same with Hunter S. Thompson, Ken Kesey, and of course, Jack Kerouac.

The shelves of different heights next to stacks of books next to skinny columns morphed browsing into an exploration. It brought electricity back into books and made me wonder at all the knowledge and stories in these shelves. It was hard, but I got away with just one book - a book on writing. Whether you're a reader or a writer, visit your local bookstore and just marvel at the wealth.

City Lights Books
261 Clumbus at Broadway

Day 82 - Realized how lame this is

Not the idea. I still think doing something new every day is spectacular. I just think a lot of mine are less than stellar. I hope you've been entertained anyways, even on the slow days. I'm sticking to this all year, but will try t step up my game and be more proactive. Any suggestions?

Day 81 - Lost myself in sleep

I woke up feeling tired - not a good sign. A few hours later, my body proclaimed it nap time. I don't think 4 hours is a "nap" - that's more like a night's sleep. And it was a mighty deep sleep, complete with weird dreams. By the time I felt fully awake six hours later, it was time to go to bed. ? ? ?

Day 80 - Fell in love with challah french toast

Really, the only way to have french toast. My friend Kaye hosted brunch for a few of us and this was the best part. With berries and yogurt, or just with maple syrup. Mmm, mmm. In a match against IHOP pancakes, well, I'm just not sure...

Day 79 - Watched The English Patient

Winner of nine Oscars back when it came out in 1996. One of those movies you hear so much about, you simply must watch it because. The social awkwardness of Ralph Fiennes character took a lot to warm up to - actually, I never fully did. I'm a fan of Juliette Binoche as is Mr. Sound (no surprise there). Overall, it was good. Sure, you should see it. What did you think?

Day 78 - Enjoyed the view

At the top of the Hyatt in Union Square, there is a bar with amazing views of the city out towards the Bay. Drinks are pricey but on a clear day, is worth the trip.

Day 77 - Had an appointment in New York

As great technology as it is, the phone and I have a long-standing feud. I have never liked talking on the phone, as I would just rather be face-to-face with someone. When possible, I skip the phone in favor of an email or letter. But I am slowly learning how stupid that is, and working to get over my aversion.

After many back-and-forth attempts to get in touch with my friend Trish in NY, we finally booked each other to talk tonight. On our calendars. It's easy to get busy and let weeks go by without catching up. And talk we did, for two and a half hours. I am now officially caught up on her life. It is so much better to hear someone's voice - the nuances, the laughter. Email just isn't the same.

Day 76 - St. Patrick's Day street party

There are so many pockets of festivity in San Francisco on St. Patrick's Day. There is a 6 AM radio broadcast from the Irish Bank. There is the post-work street party in the Financial District. We found a different street party, in the Italian sector of North Beach. A small side street in front of O'Reilly's bar hosted live music and lots of beer on a gorgeous warm day. Ah. Just a lazy afternoon, all the unemployed, self-employed, and late-night employed.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

May neighbours respect you,
Trouble neglect you,
The angels protect you,
And heaven accept you
~ Irish blessing

Day 75 - Took a day off

I woke up feeling tired. Kissed Mr. Sound goodbye and went back to bed. So add two hours to my original eight. When I woke up the second time, I still felt really tired but dragged myself out of bed on the principle of it. The rest of the day was foggy, though the weather was the complete opposite of my situation. Ah, that's what it it. I have spring fever! Already, huh? It was the most gorgeous, warm, sunny day, making it hard to do anything. Except for a few obligations, I did not accomplish much today. Took a nap, because, you know, obviously I did not get enough sleep last night. It's OK - I'll be back bigger and better tomorrow.

Day 74 - Work firsts

Did I ever mention that I am starting my own company? It's been a few months now and things move slower than you expect. But today we witnessed an upswing.

My business partner and I have started long weekly meetings. We usually would meet at lunch once a week, but it doesn't leave much time for work, especially when your mouth is always full. Today's 3.5 hour meeting was highly productive.

Secondly, we got an inquiry from a complete stranger about our work. So far, only friends have come looking, which is fantastic and we are greatly appreciative. But to hear that someone was highly impressed with your work, someone who has no obligation to do so, it was exciting and motivating. Really makes us think we're doing something right. Huzah!

Day 73 - Shucked oysters at Drakes Bay

Across the Golden Gate Bridge, up north in Marin County, is Point Reyes. Known for it's lighthouse and national park, this area by the sea is quiet and beautiful. There are a few places up there that sell fresh oysters, all of them never visited by me.

So four of us drove up to Drakes Bay in Marshall, bought a few dozen oysters and shucked all afternoon at the picnic area there. Fresh oysters certainly are layered in taste right out of the shell, and the small ones we tried were sweet and light. Add on the mignonette sauce whipped up by Rebecca, plus fresh bread and wine, and it was heaven. We were also treated to a dark chocolate cake by our talented friend Gwoeyn (check out her baking blog here). Great weather, great food, great conversation.

Day 72 - Enjoyed a mellow parade day

It was the city's St. Patrick's Day parade today. As a salute to my Irish dad who loved the parade in our hometown, I don his green knit hat and scarf and cheer on the marchers. It was a gorgeous day.


In previous years, we have started parade day with an Irish breakfast and a few pints of Guiness. Usually, we continue the festivities after the parade into the evening. This year was a lot more mellow and just as enjoyable. Mr. Sound and I had our first of two beers only after the parade - Murphy's Stout in Murphy's bar.


We then weaved our way through the city on foot, instead of taking the bus. We ended in Chinatown, which is of course not Irish at all but has delicious food. We ate in a seafood restaurant we've wanted to try for years. It was great. Full and happy, we finally headed home.

Day 71 - Tried a new coffee

People who know I enjoy coffee have recommended Philz Coffee to me many times. I finally made the effort to go - drove over in the pouring rain to taste the fuss. Now I'm just sad I didn't go sooner. My cup of coffee was divine, almost unbelievable how good it was.

With 20 blends, the barista tries to match you with a blend reflecting your favorite coffee flavors. After two friendly questions, I was matched with Philtered Soul and man, did he get it right. Sweet and nutty, like me. This blend was so good, I'm tempted to try all the others, but at the same time, want to stick with the Soul. Hmmm.

If you're in the Bay Area, visit them at their six (almost seven!) locations.
http://www.philzcoffee.com/

Day 70 - Checked out a book

My SF library card was collecting dust. I remember how excited I was to get it, then threw it in a drawer. It has been resurrected to save myself from buying books. My friend Rebecca, through her own efforts, has inspired me to rethink my spending habits.

The book of honor? The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test by Tom Wolfe. I really wanted to read something by him on recommendation, and Bonfire of the Vanities was checked out. Have you read any Tom Wolfe books? What did you think?

Day 69 - Jacked up my car

In a good way. Without any parental supervision, I took one tire off my car. It was not flat - there was a giant plastic bag wrapped in it. It was a good reminder that littering is really bad. It was also a good reminder to not be so afraid of my car and trying to fix it. Huzah.

A special acknowledgement to Day 69 because it makes me giggle. You know what I'm talking about.

Day 68 - Tried a poll

In writing about KISS on my Tuning In, Checking Out blog, I discovered there is ongoing debate about the validity of the band. In a very black and white war, the division is over whether the band should be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. What do you think? You can tell me by one click in my *ta-da!* first ever poll right here. Thank you for participating!

Day 67 - Controlled myself

Just a good day for self-control, I guess. I turned away from a pair of coveted earrings, chose a healthy alternative to a chocolate chip cookie, tackled dreaded work before the enjoyable stuff, and turned down a glass of wine. That sounds like no fun but really, a bit of discipline boosted productivity and self-respect. Sometimes that slice of chocolate cake is absolutely necessary, but today wasn't that day.

Day 66 - Listened to silence

The drive from Tahoe to San Francisco is about 3.5 hours. As you begin the trek out of the resort, high in the mountains, radio stations are hard to come by. The two we have discovered and actually enjoy are a dance one and a 90s station. But after too much Akon and Milli Vanilli, silence was preferable. Mr. Sound's preference? I don't know because he was asleep. Just me and myself, with barely any thoughts in that bubble under my hair. Hmm, must be a result of the beer the night before. Oh, and the wine. Oh, yeah, and those three shots. It's amazing I remembered how to turn the car on.

Day 65 - Slept right through

Last thing I remember, my friend was blow-drying her hair. I fell asleep. In the two hours I was asleep, the two guys came back in from snowboarding, showered, changed, watched videos, drank beer and laughed loudly. Did I hear any of it? Nay. As if I was in the next room. But since it's a studio, I most certainly was not in the next room. It was as if someone slipped NyQuil into my water. A bit disconcerting, but man, I felt great.

Day 64 - Ruined my dinner

Not sure why I'm eating like a kid lately - popcorn, peanut butter and jelly, now this. I consciously ate about 30 minutes before dinner. Know what I had? A donut. Someone get Richard Simmons on the phone, NOW.

Day 63 - Made popcorn for breakfast

The old-fashioned way - cooking kernels in a big pot of hot oil, adding your own toppings. I just felt like it. I'm an adult - I'm not part of your system.

Day 62 - Revised an engineering document

Mr. Sound was drawing some flowcharts for work last night. There were lots of boxes and lines and figures.


It didn't look quite right to me so I added some of my own stuff. Much better.

Day 61 - Sported new sneakers

My navy blue Converse had died. Not dramatically, just sluggishly. My feet needed a pick-me-up, some pep in my step. So I got these, and everything is OK again.

Day 60 - Visited the Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden

Driving along the Pacific right near Ocean Beach, you catch sight of a windmill poking above the western-most trees of Golden Gate Park. This is the Dutch Windmill, built in 1903 to irrigate the park with fresh water. It is no longer operational but a landmark in San Francisco.

Fittingly, the base of the windmill was nurtured into a tulip garden named after the queen that ruled the Netherlands for 58 years, from 1890-1948. The tulip garden blooms in the spring each year and I guess I was a bit early. The tulips were still closed, but the garden was bright with poppies and daffodils, though my photos don't do it justice.