Ok, I've been inspired by Andrea's recent blogging efforts to try it myself. Per standard blogging protocol on following up after several months of silence, I will do this in list form.
-I'm married. As of June 28, 2009 (the day after the wedding, when the pastor signed the liscense) Andrea and I are married :). As all newly married couples know, this is particularly special event, as it marks the end of wedding planning!! Life is much less stressful now.
-We honeymooned California. We came into California greeted by 108 degree temperatures in the valley. Thankfully, we spent most of the week either at a cabin in the mountains, or on the coast. Both places were cooler, and quite awesome.
-Upon our return to Lynden, we experienced about 3 weeks of epic busy-ness. I started back to work, Andrea worked at VBS (during the evenings), we were both working on organizing 2 people's worth of stuff into one smallish apartment, Andrea's parents visited, and Andrea made an unexpected trip to Michigan for a cousin's funeral.
-Things have started to settle down since then, and we've had time to try to figure out what living the married life is like.
-While we work on figuring out what the new "normal" is, we are still faced with many challanges. Andrea, as of yet, remains jobless. I am trying to get back into school to earn a teaching degree. We are trying to find a place to call home thats a bit more permanent that what we have now.
-There are quite a few other things I'd love to blog about, but I'll just list them out quickly instead. If anything sounds overly interesting to you, feel free to inquire :).
Other activies have included: 2 camping trips (one on an island where we were almost trapped by an incoming storm). Adopting a cat that we've named Ophelia. Her nicknames include Ophy, Fifi, Oph, Kitty, and Get-out-of-that-cupboard!! Making a tack box for camping equipment from bare plywood using my own design. A fishing trip. Further exploration of the beauty of Northwest Washington. A rekindling of my love for reading! (thanks mostly to Andrea).
-If anyone actually stumbles across this blog and reads it, I'm hoping to post a bit more frequently.
_____ of the day: REI is a freaking awesome store.
The lunch-hour Ogukuo
10 September 2009
07 March 2009
My taxes have been slayed!!
I just filed my tax return online, and now have this odd urge to blog.
There's something satisfying about getting a tax refund, and at the same time, there's that thought in the back of my mind that I'm just getting money back that I let the government use for the past year interest free. I think its mostly satisfying because its done, and I don't need to worry about it anymore :)
In other news, I got to meet my new (and first) niece, Abigail Vonita last weekend!! This is, of course, a new experience for me. I have "almost nephews" (as Dillan would put it) thru Andrea, but this is my first blood relative born in 22 years! The whole ordeal was rather exciting, but also quite stressful and awkward, as Neil and Sarah were living in a hotel for a week due to flooding at their apartment. So on top of being new parents, they were kicked out of their home and had a dozen family members (or inlaws) visiting for the weekend. Hurray for no downtime!!
Does anyone else find it satisfying that Democrats are starting to get "disillusioned" with Obama? No, I'm not one of those people who's hoping that Obama fails, or thinks every move he makes is a terrible mistake simply because he's not a Republican. I'm just saying that he could have easily played up the rock star persona that was thrust upon him and not really gotten anything done, but instead he's digging in and getting work done (weather you agree with him or not), and those who just wanted a new messiah are starting to get bored. And lets all admit it, it doesn't matter at this point if you agree with a Democratic president or not, he inherited a pretty crappy situation. I laugh at people who are trying to blame him for the economic situation right now. I mean, really, does anyone actually believe that its his fault??
Has anyone else heard of John MacArthur? He's a preacher man, and I just read his book "Hard to Believe". I've gotta be honest, the general premise of the book is absolutely true, but most of what he is saying is simply making roundabout attacks at anyone who isn't trying to be obnoxious about their Christian faith. I think he's trying to turn Christianity into something as offensive as he would find a gay pride parade, or "Woman's Lib" movement, as he called it.
Well, I'd love to stay and chat, but I must get back to the general Saturday morning activities.
______ of the day: My morning mix this morning included: Bob Dylan, Keane, My Morning Jacket, and Fleet Foxes
The tuned up Ogukuo
There's something satisfying about getting a tax refund, and at the same time, there's that thought in the back of my mind that I'm just getting money back that I let the government use for the past year interest free. I think its mostly satisfying because its done, and I don't need to worry about it anymore :)
In other news, I got to meet my new (and first) niece, Abigail Vonita last weekend!! This is, of course, a new experience for me. I have "almost nephews" (as Dillan would put it) thru Andrea, but this is my first blood relative born in 22 years! The whole ordeal was rather exciting, but also quite stressful and awkward, as Neil and Sarah were living in a hotel for a week due to flooding at their apartment. So on top of being new parents, they were kicked out of their home and had a dozen family members (or inlaws) visiting for the weekend. Hurray for no downtime!!
Does anyone else find it satisfying that Democrats are starting to get "disillusioned" with Obama? No, I'm not one of those people who's hoping that Obama fails, or thinks every move he makes is a terrible mistake simply because he's not a Republican. I'm just saying that he could have easily played up the rock star persona that was thrust upon him and not really gotten anything done, but instead he's digging in and getting work done (weather you agree with him or not), and those who just wanted a new messiah are starting to get bored. And lets all admit it, it doesn't matter at this point if you agree with a Democratic president or not, he inherited a pretty crappy situation. I laugh at people who are trying to blame him for the economic situation right now. I mean, really, does anyone actually believe that its his fault??
Has anyone else heard of John MacArthur? He's a preacher man, and I just read his book "Hard to Believe". I've gotta be honest, the general premise of the book is absolutely true, but most of what he is saying is simply making roundabout attacks at anyone who isn't trying to be obnoxious about their Christian faith. I think he's trying to turn Christianity into something as offensive as he would find a gay pride parade, or "Woman's Lib" movement, as he called it.
Well, I'd love to stay and chat, but I must get back to the general Saturday morning activities.
______ of the day: My morning mix this morning included: Bob Dylan, Keane, My Morning Jacket, and Fleet Foxes
The tuned up Ogukuo
23 January 2009
Bursting into the blogging biosphere!!
Now that I've got the catch-up blog out of the way, I can write about whats going on now.
But, instead of doing that, I think I'm going to break back into the blogging world with a random list of whatever is on my mind. So, here's nothing in particular, just thoughts and stuff about me.
But, instead of doing that, I think I'm going to break back into the blogging world with a random list of whatever is on my mind. So, here's nothing in particular, just thoughts and stuff about me.
- I do everything left handed. Except play guitar and throw a frisbee.
- I hate leaving messeges. I sound stupid and never know what to say.
- I can't go to bed at night without brushing me teeth first.
- I once broke 3 tennis rackets in one afternoon.
- I'm a terrible speller, stink at grammer, and don't know much about lit, but love crossword puzzles. And recently Sudoku.
- I hate Scrabble.
- I just found out that it is normal for "rich" families in Indonesia to have live-in servants for about $40 a month.
- I finally got a laptop, but am writing this on my fiancee's roommate's laptop...
- For the past 4 years, I have never experienced normal weather wherever I've been living.
- I have had 30 different roommates in the past 5 years.
- The average person has stopped reading this blog by now.
- I have yet to experience the joy of skydiving.
- Oddly enough tho, the sense of freefalling seems to be very prevalent in my life recently.
- I'm beginning to believe that where I see my life going is almost always extremely different than how God sees it going (I think hes going to win this one).
- The above point is somewhat comforting.
- I've recently discovered the joy of making pita bread.
- I've never understood why America runs on 110V while Europe runs on 220V.
- I have not spent a night in a tent in way too long.
Ok, that's all I got for now...
______ of the day: These walls are paper thin and everyone hears every little thing.
The listing Ogukuo
- I finally got a laptop, but am writing this on my fiancee's roommate's laptop...
- For the past 4 years, I have never experienced normal weather wherever I've been living.
- I have had 30 different roommates in the past 5 years.
- The average person has stopped reading this blog by now.
- I have yet to experience the joy of skydiving.
- Oddly enough tho, the sense of freefalling seems to be very prevalent in my life recently.
- I'm beginning to believe that where I see my life going is almost always extremely different than how God sees it going (I think hes going to win this one).
- The above point is somewhat comforting.
- I've recently discovered the joy of making pita bread.
- I've never understood why America runs on 110V while Europe runs on 220V.
- I have not spent a night in a tent in way too long.
Ok, that's all I got for now...
______ of the day: These walls are paper thin and everyone hears every little thing.
The listing Ogukuo
22 January 2009
Its only been 4 months...
Ok, its been many many moons since my last update, but I am resolving to get back into blogging. I'll start with a brief overview of the last few months...
October:
Indeed did go to a Fleet Foxes show. Couldn't get tickets, smooth talked an usher into sneaking us in for free. Best move ever. I loves Fleet Foxes muchly. Their albums are cool, but their live shows are much more awesome.
November: Friends and family visited, and I got to play tour guide of my new house, etc. Lots of fun. Looking forward to people visiting again (hint hint). Andrea and I went to CA to be with my parents for Thanksgiving. This was an awesome time enhanced by our engagement on Thanksgiving morning! Thus ushered in a new era of wedding planning and generally asking and answering lots and lots of questions. We also did some fantastic wine tasting and sightseeing while in California.
December: I found out that I would be moved out of my starting position at work, and would become a "float". I would do the same job, but would be moved from office to office. I was kinda bummed because I like where I was, but given everything going on, I'm just glad to have a job. We spent Christmas back in Iowa seeing family and old friends. Twas a merry time. Also went to David and Elaine's wedding and saw more old friends. More merry times.
January: New Years was spent in Seattle getting horribly lost and accidentally finding Gas Works park, the perfect vantage point to watch the fireworks off the Space Needle!! I've also started my float job now, and have been working in Pediatrics for a few weeks. Kids scream. Alot.
Ok, now that I'm up to date, I'll feel better about writing more specific stuff in the (near) future when I blog.
______ of the day: Indonesia for Christmas anyone?
The updated Ogukuo
October:
Indeed did go to a Fleet Foxes show. Couldn't get tickets, smooth talked an usher into sneaking us in for free. Best move ever. I loves Fleet Foxes muchly. Their albums are cool, but their live shows are much more awesome.
November: Friends and family visited, and I got to play tour guide of my new house, etc. Lots of fun. Looking forward to people visiting again (hint hint). Andrea and I went to CA to be with my parents for Thanksgiving. This was an awesome time enhanced by our engagement on Thanksgiving morning! Thus ushered in a new era of wedding planning and generally asking and answering lots and lots of questions. We also did some fantastic wine tasting and sightseeing while in California.
December: I found out that I would be moved out of my starting position at work, and would become a "float". I would do the same job, but would be moved from office to office. I was kinda bummed because I like where I was, but given everything going on, I'm just glad to have a job. We spent Christmas back in Iowa seeing family and old friends. Twas a merry time. Also went to David and Elaine's wedding and saw more old friends. More merry times.
January: New Years was spent in Seattle getting horribly lost and accidentally finding Gas Works park, the perfect vantage point to watch the fireworks off the Space Needle!! I've also started my float job now, and have been working in Pediatrics for a few weeks. Kids scream. Alot.
Ok, now that I'm up to date, I'll feel better about writing more specific stuff in the (near) future when I blog.
______ of the day: Indonesia for Christmas anyone?
The updated Ogukuo
09 October 2008
Soon we'll be living in the future
Well, I'm 3ish weeks into the new job, starting to feel more competent. This, of course, is not always good. I had a whole series of mistakes yesterday out of ignorance (and a ignorant ignoring of ignorance). And as I was told many'a time, ask questions, ask questions, ask questions. Today I was laughed at (all in good fun) because I didn't know how to pronounce the word 'sputum' (its 'spew-tim', not spud-um'). I'm not quite sure how I fit into an office of almost all women. Evidently I've been a talking point around the building, as male receptionists who are prone to have girlfriends are rare.
I've been taking the bus to work the past few days. This is a new and interesting venture. There's an interesting mix of people on the bus: alot of community college students, some people riding to work like myself, and then the type of people who make bus riding awkward. Yesterday I heard a 'lover's quarrel' that involved exchanges such as "Don't touch me!", "I can touch you if I want to", and "I could kill you so fast and no one would ever know", and "What time did you go to bed last night? cause you know you're supposed to be in bed by 9". These didn't appear to be the brightest people, and most of it was probably said just to say something and fill empty space between their ears. Either way, it made that part of the trip awkward and annoying. But, I'm saving a decent amount on gas, doing my part for the environment, and showing them terrorists by not supporting them and furthering America's dependence on foreign oil.
Outside of work (with the bus commute, I'm gone from 7:30 til 6:15 everyday), theres really not much new happening. I got offered the chance to play in the praise band at the church we plan on attending, so thats kinda cool, a good way to at least play bass once in a while. Sadly, weekends have been spent mostly catching up on stuff from the week, so lots of laundry, sorting paperwork, and cleaning.
October will certainly bring some excitement tho. Andrea and I are going to Missoula this weekend to visit Al (and with any luck catch Straylight Run and Anberlin in Spokane tomorrow night). Either way, it shall be an awesome weekend. Next weekend I'm hoping to see Fleet Foxes play in Bellingham. And then the following weekend my parents are visiting, and then the following weekend Nick and Lari are visiting!! Super excitement!!
Sorry for the dearth of updates, my computer has decided to be ridiculously slow, so I'm avoiding it as punishment. Hopefully I can afford a laptop in the next few months.
______ of the day: "We'll wait in line for most our lives"
The working class Ogukuo
I've been taking the bus to work the past few days. This is a new and interesting venture. There's an interesting mix of people on the bus: alot of community college students, some people riding to work like myself, and then the type of people who make bus riding awkward. Yesterday I heard a 'lover's quarrel' that involved exchanges such as "Don't touch me!", "I can touch you if I want to", and "I could kill you so fast and no one would ever know", and "What time did you go to bed last night? cause you know you're supposed to be in bed by 9". These didn't appear to be the brightest people, and most of it was probably said just to say something and fill empty space between their ears. Either way, it made that part of the trip awkward and annoying. But, I'm saving a decent amount on gas, doing my part for the environment, and showing them terrorists by not supporting them and furthering America's dependence on foreign oil.
Outside of work (with the bus commute, I'm gone from 7:30 til 6:15 everyday), theres really not much new happening. I got offered the chance to play in the praise band at the church we plan on attending, so thats kinda cool, a good way to at least play bass once in a while. Sadly, weekends have been spent mostly catching up on stuff from the week, so lots of laundry, sorting paperwork, and cleaning.
October will certainly bring some excitement tho. Andrea and I are going to Missoula this weekend to visit Al (and with any luck catch Straylight Run and Anberlin in Spokane tomorrow night). Either way, it shall be an awesome weekend. Next weekend I'm hoping to see Fleet Foxes play in Bellingham. And then the following weekend my parents are visiting, and then the following weekend Nick and Lari are visiting!! Super excitement!!
Sorry for the dearth of updates, my computer has decided to be ridiculously slow, so I'm avoiding it as punishment. Hopefully I can afford a laptop in the next few months.
______ of the day: "We'll wait in line for most our lives"
The working class Ogukuo
18 September 2008
Make sure to brush and floss your window frames daily
-I have (finally) officially been "job offered" (thats what they call it in the biz). Next week I will start my new job as a Patient Services Representive in Pulminary at a clinic in Bellingham. Sorry it took so long for me to update everyone, I've been waiting myself for the news. Apparently, Iowa takes a very long time to return background checks. So I've been a bit edgy waiting for the news.
-I've been working on repairing and updating a rental house for a guy for the past few weeks, so its been nice to be occupied and have some money coming in while I wait on the fulltime job. Oddly, this week I've been wearing old jeans, a shirt stained with paint, and work boots, while next week I'll have to wear khakis and a collared shirt for work. I fear my wardrobe may turn "preppy". But on the upside, I won't have to worry about getting paint and bleach in my hair!!
-Today I cleaned window frames with a toothbrush. These things were pretty nasty. I guess that's what you get for having renters who don't clean the place for seven years.
-Everyone in the state of Washington has some weird fascination with driving slowly. Almost every other state I've been to has a "55 MPH unless otherwise posted" law out in the country. Here its 35 MPH. The typical speed limit is usually posted in the 40-50 mph range, which still seems low to me for being out in the country. And the odd thing is, everyone drives 5-10 below the speed limit! I guess its not a bad thing, I just figured Washingtonians are typically known for drinking coffee, and I assumed this would lead to faster driving, not slower.
-I just tried taking pictures of my house/room, and evidentally the flash on my camera quit working, so that'll have to wait I guess, sorry.
-Random thought, I have a secret facination with model train sets. I would love to be one of those old retired guys who wears striped overalls and a conductor's hat and has a huge model train setup in the basement. Complete with a model town and hills. That and bonsai, I think I may get into bonsai.
_____ of the day: I've been listening to The Moon & Antartica alot recently. I really like it.
The employed Ogukuo
-I've been working on repairing and updating a rental house for a guy for the past few weeks, so its been nice to be occupied and have some money coming in while I wait on the fulltime job. Oddly, this week I've been wearing old jeans, a shirt stained with paint, and work boots, while next week I'll have to wear khakis and a collared shirt for work. I fear my wardrobe may turn "preppy". But on the upside, I won't have to worry about getting paint and bleach in my hair!!
-Today I cleaned window frames with a toothbrush. These things were pretty nasty. I guess that's what you get for having renters who don't clean the place for seven years.
-Everyone in the state of Washington has some weird fascination with driving slowly. Almost every other state I've been to has a "55 MPH unless otherwise posted" law out in the country. Here its 35 MPH. The typical speed limit is usually posted in the 40-50 mph range, which still seems low to me for being out in the country. And the odd thing is, everyone drives 5-10 below the speed limit! I guess its not a bad thing, I just figured Washingtonians are typically known for drinking coffee, and I assumed this would lead to faster driving, not slower.
-I just tried taking pictures of my house/room, and evidentally the flash on my camera quit working, so that'll have to wait I guess, sorry.
-Random thought, I have a secret facination with model train sets. I would love to be one of those old retired guys who wears striped overalls and a conductor's hat and has a huge model train setup in the basement. Complete with a model town and hills. That and bonsai, I think I may get into bonsai.
_____ of the day: I've been listening to The Moon & Antartica alot recently. I really like it.
The employed Ogukuo
04 September 2008
Do I still exist?
Ok, another update.
I'm in my new place. I've got a bed and a small nightstand, and everything else is stacked in the corner. My next goal is a dresser, desk, and bookshelves so that I can start de-boxing stuff and make my room look like a room instead of a storage shed.
I had a job interview yesterday! It was for a position at a branch of the hospital. I'd be working in more of a clinical setting. Answering phones, recording information, helping patients, etc. I'm excited about the prospect. I've heard really great things about the hospital, and from what I've seen I would enjoy it.
I've got a "new" phone. Actually, its a four year old phone with weird features and outdated graphics. But, it works, I can call people, and they can call me. I can do texts, but I dunno if I'm alerted when I get them. So if I get a text from you and don't reply, I apologize. This phone is just to help me limp by until I decide if/when I wanna get a new contract.
Besides the concrete stuff like moving and job hunting, I've been having a hard time getting used to Lynden. I think the weather may be getting to me, and getting used to being away from a place I got so accustomed to is hard. Hopefully once I have a job to go to every day and a place that feels more like "my room" it'll be easier. I still want to ask for prayers and encouragement from people, I think I'm still in "the process" right now.
Today it looks like I can (thankfully) enjoy some sunshine! That will help.
______ of the day: You may be a big fish in a little pond/Doesn't mean you've won/'Cause along may come a bigger one
The adjusting Ogukuo
I'm in my new place. I've got a bed and a small nightstand, and everything else is stacked in the corner. My next goal is a dresser, desk, and bookshelves so that I can start de-boxing stuff and make my room look like a room instead of a storage shed.
I had a job interview yesterday! It was for a position at a branch of the hospital. I'd be working in more of a clinical setting. Answering phones, recording information, helping patients, etc. I'm excited about the prospect. I've heard really great things about the hospital, and from what I've seen I would enjoy it.
I've got a "new" phone. Actually, its a four year old phone with weird features and outdated graphics. But, it works, I can call people, and they can call me. I can do texts, but I dunno if I'm alerted when I get them. So if I get a text from you and don't reply, I apologize. This phone is just to help me limp by until I decide if/when I wanna get a new contract.
Besides the concrete stuff like moving and job hunting, I've been having a hard time getting used to Lynden. I think the weather may be getting to me, and getting used to being away from a place I got so accustomed to is hard. Hopefully once I have a job to go to every day and a place that feels more like "my room" it'll be easier. I still want to ask for prayers and encouragement from people, I think I'm still in "the process" right now.
Today it looks like I can (thankfully) enjoy some sunshine! That will help.
______ of the day: You may be a big fish in a little pond/Doesn't mean you've won/'Cause along may come a bigger one
The adjusting Ogukuo
26 August 2008
Does Iowa still exist?
Another week, and more job hunting. But, house hunting is over! I've found a place to live that I'm rather excited about. Its a good location, good people, really nice house, and um, [insert other good points]. This I am rather excited about, as it's a big step in feeling 'at home'. So next week, along with job hunting, I shall again be moving all my worldly possessions to a new location. Well, everything except my socks, which have inexplicably disappeared. If you see a large collection of socks somewhere between Sioux Center and Lynden, please let me know.
Andrea and I went to a Twins/M's game last night at Safeco field. It was a very good time. I really enjoy downtown areas at night, there's something so awe-inspiring about it. We sat in the 9th row for most of the game, and moved to the 2nd towards the end! Thats the closest I've ever sat to a real game before! And 'Major League Mariners Dogs' are very good, and worth the $6.00 to get.
So what happened to the Iowa Blogging Contingency? I'm pretty much ignorant of any current events because (almost) no one is blogging! I guess I could call some people to find out, it'd be nice to catch up anyway. Perhaps once I'm settled into a place of my own and have time to call I will do that.
Lesse, other news of note: I've gotten a haircut (it looks quite good), I think I've found a church I like, so hopefully that continues to be a blessing, and I believe my cell phone is in its last throws. I no longer have an outside display (thus, no caller ID), and the inside screen is starting to blank out once in a while as well. Its also sending alot of calls straight to voicemail. So if I miss your call, I apologize, just try again, my phone responds to persistence.
Thats all from the newest frontier, good day!
______ of the day: Everybody's gonna love today, gonna love today, gonna love today.
The partly cloudy Ogukuo
Andrea and I went to a Twins/M's game last night at Safeco field. It was a very good time. I really enjoy downtown areas at night, there's something so awe-inspiring about it. We sat in the 9th row for most of the game, and moved to the 2nd towards the end! Thats the closest I've ever sat to a real game before! And 'Major League Mariners Dogs' are very good, and worth the $6.00 to get.
So what happened to the Iowa Blogging Contingency? I'm pretty much ignorant of any current events because (almost) no one is blogging! I guess I could call some people to find out, it'd be nice to catch up anyway. Perhaps once I'm settled into a place of my own and have time to call I will do that.
Lesse, other news of note: I've gotten a haircut (it looks quite good), I think I've found a church I like, so hopefully that continues to be a blessing, and I believe my cell phone is in its last throws. I no longer have an outside display (thus, no caller ID), and the inside screen is starting to blank out once in a while as well. Its also sending alot of calls straight to voicemail. So if I miss your call, I apologize, just try again, my phone responds to persistence.
Thats all from the newest frontier, good day!
______ of the day: Everybody's gonna love today, gonna love today, gonna love today.
The partly cloudy Ogukuo
19 August 2008
To get it off my chest...
Well, I've been in Lynden for a week and a half now, and feel like I'm not gaining much traction yet. I thought I had a good shot at a job, but the position was offered to someone else. I also thought I had a place I really wanted to live, but I'm having second thoughts about that as well. So I'm in the market for a job and for an apartment. Both are slow going. It's tough, but I'm working on staying positive about it.
1.) I'm questioning myself on the job search, I'm really not sure what I want to do. The thought of working for a non-profit and working with kids is awesome, but I don't know if I can find something in that area that will pay enough to support even my simple lifestyle. So now I'm looking into a broader range of positions, which makes things difficult. This really opens up the market, but to jobs where I don't have experience, and I'm not sure about these positions. I know there is a job that I would awesome at, and that I would love to do, but I just don't know what that job is.
2.) About the apartment situation, the one I was looking at is the cheapest by far, but doesn't offer much besides that. It's a studio without much storage space, and no internet. What I'm thinking now is I want a 2 bedroom apartment that I can share with a roommate. This will actually end up being a bit cheaper I figure, cause I'll be splitting rent, but its gonna be tough to figure out this situation. Cause finding a roommate will be hard without knowing people around here, and if I don't find a roommate, rent will be in the $650-$730 range by myself. Not to mention that places are wary of renting to unemployed persons (see point 1).
No, I didn't figure this would be easy, and I know its gonna take some time for things to settle into place. I'd really appreciate your prayers for me as I try to realign my life right now. I'm trying to keep a positive note about all of this, and knowing that people care helps alot. Building a new support network takes time, I still want my old one right now.
_______ of the day: Never underestimate my Jesus/When the world around you crumbles/He will be strong he will be strong.
The Searching Ogukuo
1.) I'm questioning myself on the job search, I'm really not sure what I want to do. The thought of working for a non-profit and working with kids is awesome, but I don't know if I can find something in that area that will pay enough to support even my simple lifestyle. So now I'm looking into a broader range of positions, which makes things difficult. This really opens up the market, but to jobs where I don't have experience, and I'm not sure about these positions. I know there is a job that I would awesome at, and that I would love to do, but I just don't know what that job is.
2.) About the apartment situation, the one I was looking at is the cheapest by far, but doesn't offer much besides that. It's a studio without much storage space, and no internet. What I'm thinking now is I want a 2 bedroom apartment that I can share with a roommate. This will actually end up being a bit cheaper I figure, cause I'll be splitting rent, but its gonna be tough to figure out this situation. Cause finding a roommate will be hard without knowing people around here, and if I don't find a roommate, rent will be in the $650-$730 range by myself. Not to mention that places are wary of renting to unemployed persons (see point 1).
No, I didn't figure this would be easy, and I know its gonna take some time for things to settle into place. I'd really appreciate your prayers for me as I try to realign my life right now. I'm trying to keep a positive note about all of this, and knowing that people care helps alot. Building a new support network takes time, I still want my old one right now.
_______ of the day: Never underestimate my Jesus/When the world around you crumbles/He will be strong he will be strong.
The Searching Ogukuo
13 August 2008
An update, but not really
Ok, this blog is gonna cover a very very busy month, so I'm gonna hit the highlights (that I can remember) and hopefully do some more real updates later. I hope someone still reads this.
-Its been 3.5 weeks since leaving Sioux Center. I've seen the Omaha Zoo, a ton of plains states, the Pacific Ocean, Pinecrest Lake, Modesto, Mt. Shasta (could barely see it thru the smoke from the CA wildfires), downtown Salem (awesome), cool things in and around Portland (also awesome), the Columbia Valley River Gorge, tons of traffic from Olympia to Marysville (about 3 hours worth), Lynden for a day, Lake Roosevelt, Grand Coulee Dam, Stevens Pass, many deer, a bald eagle, a bear cub, the beach (alot), and tons of water spraying everywhere as I attempted multiple times to get up on a wakeboard.
-So yes, hitting all of this with one blog would be nearly impossible. The highlights would be the experiances, such as boogie boarding in the Pac ocean, party boating on Pinecrest, and attempting to wakeboard. Although, actually getting up on the wakeboard was much more fun than attempting to. I love wakeboarding, but only have about a 10% accuracy rate for getting up. I've dealt with alot of sore muscles and painful bruses. All worth it.
- Now I'm settling into Lynden and losing steam. The traveling is over, visiting cool and awesome family and friends is over. Now I'm waiting to hear if I have a job, trying to find a place to live, trying to figure out how to find a roommate in a place I don't know, and keeping an eye on my ever dwindling bank account. Its all given me a nasty tension headache that kept me up last night and is still dogging me today. I'm trying to keep a positive spin on things, but its hard right now.
-I'm starting to miss music too.
_____ of the day: Those who are dead are not dead, they're just living in my head.
The aching Ogukuo
-Its been 3.5 weeks since leaving Sioux Center. I've seen the Omaha Zoo, a ton of plains states, the Pacific Ocean, Pinecrest Lake, Modesto, Mt. Shasta (could barely see it thru the smoke from the CA wildfires), downtown Salem (awesome), cool things in and around Portland (also awesome), the Columbia Valley River Gorge, tons of traffic from Olympia to Marysville (about 3 hours worth), Lynden for a day, Lake Roosevelt, Grand Coulee Dam, Stevens Pass, many deer, a bald eagle, a bear cub, the beach (alot), and tons of water spraying everywhere as I attempted multiple times to get up on a wakeboard.
-So yes, hitting all of this with one blog would be nearly impossible. The highlights would be the experiances, such as boogie boarding in the Pac ocean, party boating on Pinecrest, and attempting to wakeboard. Although, actually getting up on the wakeboard was much more fun than attempting to. I love wakeboarding, but only have about a 10% accuracy rate for getting up. I've dealt with alot of sore muscles and painful bruses. All worth it.
- Now I'm settling into Lynden and losing steam. The traveling is over, visiting cool and awesome family and friends is over. Now I'm waiting to hear if I have a job, trying to find a place to live, trying to figure out how to find a roommate in a place I don't know, and keeping an eye on my ever dwindling bank account. Its all given me a nasty tension headache that kept me up last night and is still dogging me today. I'm trying to keep a positive spin on things, but its hard right now.
-I'm starting to miss music too.
_____ of the day: Those who are dead are not dead, they're just living in my head.
The aching Ogukuo
07 July 2008
4th of July!
I blog not often, sorry to the 2.6 people who read this. So here's a little update, kinda general stuff thats been happening.
1. General funness and stuff at home
- Tennis! Since Andrea's returned to Sioux Center, we've played a few games of tennis. Not only is it fun, its also fun and fun.
- I've tried to start some sort of jogging routine. So far I've spent more time stretching out than actually jogging.
- I've been working. Alot. In the past month or so I've logged close to 40 hours in overtime. Makes for long days, but the payoff is kinda nice. And since my last day is next Thursday, loading up on some extra cash is not a bad thing.
- I've generally avoided thinking about the fact that I'm moving in a few weeks. It's not that real yet. This scares me a bit.
2. A trip to Pella!!
- Ok, so its not Grand Rapids, but its one of the Dutch meccas. I went down there to meet some of Andrea's extended family. It was fun. I felt a bit out of my element, but had a good time meeting people and playing Dutch bingo. Such as finding out that Andrea's Grandpa plays golf with my mom's former boss a few times a week. Ahhh connections.
- Pella is not quite what I expected. I mean, Dutch-wise, yes, about what I thought it would be. But its a much smaller town than I thought it would be. But for a small town, they've really got a name for themselves with Pella Windows, Vermeer, and Pella bologna. And, of course, the childhood home of Wyatt Earp. Oh, and according to Wikipedia, the guitarist from the Killers is also from Pella.
- I think this is a town I would like to return to once or twice in my lifetime.
3. A trip to Okoboji!
- Yesterday Andrea and I went up to Okoboji to visit Scott and Sheryl. This was a fun endevour.
- I tried water skiing for the first time in a long time. I tried like 6 times and never got up. This is frustrating. I blame a slightly-slower-than-what-I'm-used-to boat, the many years since I've last skiied, and very choppy water due to the many many other boats on the lake. I also tubed. This I did fairly well. But the combonation of these activities has left me quite sore today. In a good way, of course. Just don't ask me to lift anything soon.
- We played mini-golf and ate good chicken. Both of these were winner ideas as well.
- I'm torn on Okoboji. On one hand, there were many fun things to do, but on the other hand, it was way too crowded. I guess its a good secret that got out.
So thats the latest on my front. The next few weeks will bring about some big changes, so again, I may go on a blogging hiatus. But rest assured, after that, I will have many many things to write about.
_____ of the day: We should get jerseys, cause we make a good team.
The sore Ogukuo
1. General funness and stuff at home
- Tennis! Since Andrea's returned to Sioux Center, we've played a few games of tennis. Not only is it fun, its also fun and fun.
- I've tried to start some sort of jogging routine. So far I've spent more time stretching out than actually jogging.
- I've been working. Alot. In the past month or so I've logged close to 40 hours in overtime. Makes for long days, but the payoff is kinda nice. And since my last day is next Thursday, loading up on some extra cash is not a bad thing.
- I've generally avoided thinking about the fact that I'm moving in a few weeks. It's not that real yet. This scares me a bit.
2. A trip to Pella!!
- Ok, so its not Grand Rapids, but its one of the Dutch meccas. I went down there to meet some of Andrea's extended family. It was fun. I felt a bit out of my element, but had a good time meeting people and playing Dutch bingo. Such as finding out that Andrea's Grandpa plays golf with my mom's former boss a few times a week. Ahhh connections.
- Pella is not quite what I expected. I mean, Dutch-wise, yes, about what I thought it would be. But its a much smaller town than I thought it would be. But for a small town, they've really got a name for themselves with Pella Windows, Vermeer, and Pella bologna. And, of course, the childhood home of Wyatt Earp. Oh, and according to Wikipedia, the guitarist from the Killers is also from Pella.
- I think this is a town I would like to return to once or twice in my lifetime.
3. A trip to Okoboji!
- Yesterday Andrea and I went up to Okoboji to visit Scott and Sheryl. This was a fun endevour.
- I tried water skiing for the first time in a long time. I tried like 6 times and never got up. This is frustrating. I blame a slightly-slower-than-what-I'm-used-to boat, the many years since I've last skiied, and very choppy water due to the many many other boats on the lake. I also tubed. This I did fairly well. But the combonation of these activities has left me quite sore today. In a good way, of course. Just don't ask me to lift anything soon.
- We played mini-golf and ate good chicken. Both of these were winner ideas as well.
- I'm torn on Okoboji. On one hand, there were many fun things to do, but on the other hand, it was way too crowded. I guess its a good secret that got out.
So thats the latest on my front. The next few weeks will bring about some big changes, so again, I may go on a blogging hiatus. But rest assured, after that, I will have many many things to write about.
_____ of the day: We should get jerseys, cause we make a good team.
The sore Ogukuo
15 June 2008
Sweet dessert and changes
-Instead of sitting around bored Friday night, I decided to make dessert instead. Of course, this means I didn't go out or make dinner for myself, but it was fun making dessert. The choice this time was white chocolate covered grapes with an orange dipping glaze. It was quite good, and suprisingly simple to make. The only problem is I don't think its something that will keep long in the fridge. Partly because I keep eating a little bit at a time, and partly because the chocolate and orange curd are getting pretty hard, making it kinda difficult to eat without stuff falling apart. But thats ok, this was an experiment that I still consider a great success.
-In unrelated news, I took a walk around campus last night. For those of you not around, there are some changes going on around the center of campus. The parking lot in front of the campus center has been pulled out and is being expanded and redesigned with trees and islands. The parking lot between the rec center and the Beej is gone, all the way to where it connected with the Southview parking lot. And it looks like another lot will be put in on the west side of the old soccer field. So there have been alot of trees cut down, and dirt turned up. Grass that is normally well kept is growing tall. It looks rather crappy right now, but I bet when the project is finished it will be a significant improvement. Both of those parking lots were eyesores, so its nice to see one redone in a nice way and the other taken out. Having an expanded green area by the rec center will be very nice and inviting.
-I'm starting to appreciate my house more now that I can do some cleaning up and it stays that way for a while. Our living room seems suprisingly inviting without fastfood remains, beer bottles, and numourous glasses strewn everywhere. And walking down a hallway that isn't being used for storage is amazing!
-Today was the last time until Thursday that I need to get up at 5:45 am. This is exciting. And I have next weekend off!! This is huge! I haven't had a free weekend at home for well over a month. Plans for Highschool Musical and BBQ's have me very excited :).
And now its almost lunch time, so I'd best sign off.
______ of the day: Concert tonight!
The overworked Ogukuo
-In unrelated news, I took a walk around campus last night. For those of you not around, there are some changes going on around the center of campus. The parking lot in front of the campus center has been pulled out and is being expanded and redesigned with trees and islands. The parking lot between the rec center and the Beej is gone, all the way to where it connected with the Southview parking lot. And it looks like another lot will be put in on the west side of the old soccer field. So there have been alot of trees cut down, and dirt turned up. Grass that is normally well kept is growing tall. It looks rather crappy right now, but I bet when the project is finished it will be a significant improvement. Both of those parking lots were eyesores, so its nice to see one redone in a nice way and the other taken out. Having an expanded green area by the rec center will be very nice and inviting.
-I'm starting to appreciate my house more now that I can do some cleaning up and it stays that way for a while. Our living room seems suprisingly inviting without fastfood remains, beer bottles, and numourous glasses strewn everywhere. And walking down a hallway that isn't being used for storage is amazing!
-Today was the last time until Thursday that I need to get up at 5:45 am. This is exciting. And I have next weekend off!! This is huge! I haven't had a free weekend at home for well over a month. Plans for Highschool Musical and BBQ's have me very excited :).
And now its almost lunch time, so I'd best sign off.
______ of the day: Concert tonight!
The overworked Ogukuo
09 June 2008
Today I bought three things...
1.) A gallon of milk. This is actually rather significant because its the first time in close to two weeks that I've got milk. Up until recently, it seems like I'd need to buy a gallon of milk every 4-5 days. Am I drinking less milk? Well, I'll just say that less of my milk is being drunk, if you know what I mean.
2.) One of those stackable tray deals for organizing papers on my desk. This is part of my ongoing quest to become and stay organized. I figure these will take up enough room on my desk that I won't have room to stack random crap, and thus will be forced to use them. I have $2.88 invested that says they will help.
3.) A box of Hostess Cupcakes. One needs no other reason for this than they are awesome. Especially with #1 from this list.
And a few musical notes...
I recently discovered The Graduate on my itunes. One of those bands thats sat there for way too long without me listening to them. I likes them alot. Also, you should listen to 'Breakable' by Ingrid Michaelson. Its a very neat song.
______ of the day: "I'm somewhere in between who I am and who I want to be" -Sing, The Graduate
2.) One of those stackable tray deals for organizing papers on my desk. This is part of my ongoing quest to become and stay organized. I figure these will take up enough room on my desk that I won't have room to stack random crap, and thus will be forced to use them. I have $2.88 invested that says they will help.
3.) A box of Hostess Cupcakes. One needs no other reason for this than they are awesome. Especially with #1 from this list.
And a few musical notes...
I recently discovered The Graduate on my itunes. One of those bands thats sat there for way too long without me listening to them. I likes them alot. Also, you should listen to 'Breakable' by Ingrid Michaelson. Its a very neat song.
______ of the day: "I'm somewhere in between who I am and who I want to be" -Sing, The Graduate
08 June 2008
Free Time!
-Today is my first free day in over a week and a half. Its quite nice to sit a little bit and feel not guilty about not doing things because I actually have time today to get them done. Hurray for getting laundry folded that was clean 3 days ago!!
-Since coming back from Washington, I've put in 9 straight days at Niessink, and overlapped that with 4 days of a side job running sound for the Robin's School of Dance recital. This side venture was quite fun. Very long hours, but working with great people who know what they were doing and how to let other people do what they know how to do.
-My regular job is about the same as always. I realized yesterday that I have about 6 weeks left there, and over 60 hours of PTO to use up. For those lacking basic math skills, that means I could cut myself back to 30 hours a week and still get paid fully. However, we're rather short staffed, and I don't think I could take the time off even if I wanted to. Not sure how that is going to work itself out.
-As far as future life in Washington goes, I'm still unsure about a job or a place to live, but both are moving in good directions. I caught wind of a potentially very good place to live, which I'm hoping to follow up on very soon. The job situation is rather stale at this point, but I think I'm sitting in a good position. Hopefully that doesn't come back to bite me in the butt.
-I just found out that the pastor of my home church accepted a call to a different church. This is odd to me, as he has been at our church for ever. He baptized me. My church is also in the process of adding a second building to be a social hall/Sunday School classroom complex. And with that project, they are remodelling alot of the inside of the existing building as well. So when I see it next in July, it really is going to be a different place than what I grew up with. I guess progress is always being made, but for some reason I always feel like my childhood was a time when things where what they were. And now everything is changing from that. Its odd.
-I appreciate the connections and opportunities I've had thru Dordt. Its gonna be hard to move away from that.
______ of the day: All my stories sound the same
The relaxing Ogukuo
-Since coming back from Washington, I've put in 9 straight days at Niessink, and overlapped that with 4 days of a side job running sound for the Robin's School of Dance recital. This side venture was quite fun. Very long hours, but working with great people who know what they were doing and how to let other people do what they know how to do.
-My regular job is about the same as always. I realized yesterday that I have about 6 weeks left there, and over 60 hours of PTO to use up. For those lacking basic math skills, that means I could cut myself back to 30 hours a week and still get paid fully. However, we're rather short staffed, and I don't think I could take the time off even if I wanted to. Not sure how that is going to work itself out.
-As far as future life in Washington goes, I'm still unsure about a job or a place to live, but both are moving in good directions. I caught wind of a potentially very good place to live, which I'm hoping to follow up on very soon. The job situation is rather stale at this point, but I think I'm sitting in a good position. Hopefully that doesn't come back to bite me in the butt.
-I just found out that the pastor of my home church accepted a call to a different church. This is odd to me, as he has been at our church for ever. He baptized me. My church is also in the process of adding a second building to be a social hall/Sunday School classroom complex. And with that project, they are remodelling alot of the inside of the existing building as well. So when I see it next in July, it really is going to be a different place than what I grew up with. I guess progress is always being made, but for some reason I always feel like my childhood was a time when things where what they were. And now everything is changing from that. Its odd.
-I appreciate the connections and opportunities I've had thru Dordt. Its gonna be hard to move away from that.
______ of the day: All my stories sound the same
The relaxing Ogukuo
01 June 2008
Last visit to Washington!
-It's the last visit cause the next time I go there, I'm going to stay :D. And, this visit expanded our stomping grounds to include Seattle, a city previously reserved for flying into and out of.
-I guess I'll start with Lynden/B'Ham. Had an interview (this time it was actually an interview) with Big Brothers Big Sisters. All in all, it went really well. The general impression I get is that they want me to work there, its just a matter of if their program moves in the direction of needing another staff person. Hoping and praying on that one. Also spent some quality time watching movies and playing catch. There was also a drive down Chuckanut Drive that was beautiful minus one innocent where we almost died.
-So, Seattle. Of all the towns I've visited that have a Space Needle, Seattle is my favorite. Even counting the cities without Space Needles, Seattle ranks pretty high. The Seattle experiance was great. Great hosts, great place to stay, great Folklife Festival, great waterfront, and great to experiance urban driving again.
-We (Andrea, Al, friend Christa, and I) stayed at my Uncle Dennis and Aunt Jennie's house in Bothell. It was wonderful to catch up again, moving away from the West Coast has left me somewhat disconnected from most of my family.
-Folklife was rather crowded, but a great time. I even Contra-danced! It was fun and only took me 3 days to work up the courage to do so! And for anyone who saw the Folklife Festival on the news, no, I was not shot.
-As many times as I've been to Seattle, I've never gone up the Space Needle til this visit. And its great! Granted, not something to do every other month, but very much worth doing. Especially in good company :).
-And a note about urban driving. Relaxed Midwest driving is awesome. But theres something about highways and city streets thats fun. Trying to find parking, however, thats an experiance I could pass on.
-I found my grandparents old house in Lake Forest Park as well. Good memories. Couldn't go inside to look around, but got to see the yard. Also went to the port on Lake Washington were we'd go as a family to feed ducks many years ago. Very fun and memory-ful.
-And now, just to make the blog a little longer, some pictures! (Ok, limited supply, I'm terrible at actually hauling out my digital camera and using it).
And, of course, the Space Needle from the Folklife Festival.
Andrea doesn't like making nice faces when I take her picture, so here's revenge :).
-I guess I'll start with Lynden/B'Ham. Had an interview (this time it was actually an interview) with Big Brothers Big Sisters. All in all, it went really well. The general impression I get is that they want me to work there, its just a matter of if their program moves in the direction of needing another staff person. Hoping and praying on that one. Also spent some quality time watching movies and playing catch. There was also a drive down Chuckanut Drive that was beautiful minus one innocent where we almost died.
-So, Seattle. Of all the towns I've visited that have a Space Needle, Seattle is my favorite. Even counting the cities without Space Needles, Seattle ranks pretty high. The Seattle experiance was great. Great hosts, great place to stay, great Folklife Festival, great waterfront, and great to experiance urban driving again.
-We (Andrea, Al, friend Christa, and I) stayed at my Uncle Dennis and Aunt Jennie's house in Bothell. It was wonderful to catch up again, moving away from the West Coast has left me somewhat disconnected from most of my family.
-Folklife was rather crowded, but a great time. I even Contra-danced! It was fun and only took me 3 days to work up the courage to do so! And for anyone who saw the Folklife Festival on the news, no, I was not shot.
-As many times as I've been to Seattle, I've never gone up the Space Needle til this visit. And its great! Granted, not something to do every other month, but very much worth doing. Especially in good company :).
-And a note about urban driving. Relaxed Midwest driving is awesome. But theres something about highways and city streets thats fun. Trying to find parking, however, thats an experiance I could pass on.
-I found my grandparents old house in Lake Forest Park as well. Good memories. Couldn't go inside to look around, but got to see the yard. Also went to the port on Lake Washington were we'd go as a family to feed ducks many years ago. Very fun and memory-ful.
-And now, just to make the blog a little longer, some pictures! (Ok, limited supply, I'm terrible at actually hauling out my digital camera and using it).
The Experiance Music Project as viewed from the Space Needle. I've heard its supposed to look vaguely like a guitar from above, I'm not seeing it.
Folklife Festival from the Space Needle.
And, of course, the Space Needle from the Folklife Festival.
Andrea doesn't like making nice faces when I take her picture, so here's revenge :).-Thats all for now, check out Andrea's blog for a wider variety of pictures, she's got some good ones posted!
______ of the day: I enjoy Midwest Thunderstorms. Alot.
The traveled Ogukuo
14 May 2008
Gas and golf and hermanutics
- I have a list of things I need to do in front of me. Such fun items as "do dishes" and "file paperwork from last 2 months" are on it. And for some reason, the only thought on my mind currently is GOLF!!!! I would love nothing more than to play 18 holes today. Of course, I haven't swung a golf club in 10 months, so if I did try to play a full round, I would probably die. Not to mention that I would score a 147 cause I'm terrible at golf. Perhaps a trip to the chipping green or driving range to slowly warm myself back into it...
- There is a pattern of mold on my bathroom ceiling that vaguely resembles South America. I wish so much for a vent fan. Which means I wish even more for a logical electrical system in our house so I could perform this simple installation.
- I watched the movie "Hot Rod" last night. I recommend it only if you have 87 minutes and several brain cells you are willing to give up. But it'll probably make you laugh a few times.
- I remembered yesterday that I got roped into working a 16 hour shift on Sunday. I guess its nice cause it's less PTO I need to use for my trip to Washington next week, but I'm gonna be rather cranky Sunday evening.
- I volunteered to work 16 hour days this summer. It may be nice, or I may need to reside in a room with rubber wallpaper because of it. I'm scared to find out.
- Kind Old King George sent me my economic stimulus check the other day. Like any good patriotic American, I dropped it right into my savings account. Maybe $600 will be enough to cover my gas costs for driving to Washington this summer.
- I have close to $100 in change (I'm guessing) sitting on top of my mini-fridge. I'm not quite sure what I want to do with it. I'll probably be boring and logical and use it to help pay for gas to move to Washington.
- I don't like it when I have to blog about paying for gas because its close to $4 a gallon.
- If we held a garage sale and sold everything that is being stored at our house I could retire very comfortably. I'd also be able to navigate the basement without tripping over many boxes and random furnerature.
______ of the day: I'm listening to The Velvet Underground. Hmmmmm.
The listless Ogukuo
- There is a pattern of mold on my bathroom ceiling that vaguely resembles South America. I wish so much for a vent fan. Which means I wish even more for a logical electrical system in our house so I could perform this simple installation.
- I watched the movie "Hot Rod" last night. I recommend it only if you have 87 minutes and several brain cells you are willing to give up. But it'll probably make you laugh a few times.
- I remembered yesterday that I got roped into working a 16 hour shift on Sunday. I guess its nice cause it's less PTO I need to use for my trip to Washington next week, but I'm gonna be rather cranky Sunday evening.
- I volunteered to work 16 hour days this summer. It may be nice, or I may need to reside in a room with rubber wallpaper because of it. I'm scared to find out.
- Kind Old King George sent me my economic stimulus check the other day. Like any good patriotic American, I dropped it right into my savings account. Maybe $600 will be enough to cover my gas costs for driving to Washington this summer.
- I have close to $100 in change (I'm guessing) sitting on top of my mini-fridge. I'm not quite sure what I want to do with it. I'll probably be boring and logical and use it to help pay for gas to move to Washington.
- I don't like it when I have to blog about paying for gas because its close to $4 a gallon.
- If we held a garage sale and sold everything that is being stored at our house I could retire very comfortably. I'd also be able to navigate the basement without tripping over many boxes and random furnerature.
______ of the day: I'm listening to The Velvet Underground. Hmmmmm.
The listless Ogukuo
10 May 2008
Goodbye
Three years ago I watched friends graduate and leave. I came back for my last year of college, and two years ago graduated myself, watching more friends leave. I watched more people leave a year ago. And again yesterday. And now I have a few months of Sioux Center summer without any Dordt students, and I'll be leaving myself. I won't be seeing any friends return to Dordt in the fall. I probably won't see any more Dordt plays, or attend NISO concerts, or concert choir shows. The people I hung out with earlier this week are people I dunno if I'll see again.
I really look forward to moving, starting a new job, exploring a new area, meeting new people, and being with Andrea; and I really am glad I'm leaving to do all of these things. But its right now that kinda sucks. Its tough realizing that all these extremely recent memories are going to remain just that, memories. Its hard to see that the Dordt chapter of my life is (finally) over, but knowing that the next chapter of my life doesn't really start for another three months makes waiting hard. Everyone else's life changed yesterday, they say goodbye and move on to a summer job, or a new career, or job hunting, or moving into Dad and Mom's basement. I was part of the goodbyes, but now I return to work and dishes and being short changed on sleep.
More and more each day I feel like my life in Washington is starting, and I'm just waiting on hold until August to join it. What do I do with the time inbetween? Especially for the next month! Well, like I said earlier, work, dishes, and lack sleep.
Despite this rather somber post, I'm really not sad about moving away. Quite the opposite, I'm very excited about it! I'm just sad to leave one life behind without being able to start my next one for three months.
______ of the day: Why did it have to be rainy today??
The stuck inside Ogukuo
I really look forward to moving, starting a new job, exploring a new area, meeting new people, and being with Andrea; and I really am glad I'm leaving to do all of these things. But its right now that kinda sucks. Its tough realizing that all these extremely recent memories are going to remain just that, memories. Its hard to see that the Dordt chapter of my life is (finally) over, but knowing that the next chapter of my life doesn't really start for another three months makes waiting hard. Everyone else's life changed yesterday, they say goodbye and move on to a summer job, or a new career, or job hunting, or moving into Dad and Mom's basement. I was part of the goodbyes, but now I return to work and dishes and being short changed on sleep.
More and more each day I feel like my life in Washington is starting, and I'm just waiting on hold until August to join it. What do I do with the time inbetween? Especially for the next month! Well, like I said earlier, work, dishes, and lack sleep.
Despite this rather somber post, I'm really not sad about moving away. Quite the opposite, I'm very excited about it! I'm just sad to leave one life behind without being able to start my next one for three months.
______ of the day: Why did it have to be rainy today??
The stuck inside Ogukuo
07 May 2008
A lunch date with destiny
I saw my sister and brother-in-law yesterday for the first time since Thanksgiving. It was a good time, but we only got to visit for an hour or so. We had an interesting conversation about being people-oriented vs. task-oriented. My sister tends to be quite task-oriented, something inherited from both our parents. I tend to be task-oriented mentally, but people-oriented outwardly. This means that it bugs me to be behind schedule or whatever, but I'd still rather chat and pay attention to a person. Its ironic, because this conversation made me about 40 minutes late for work. Indeed, the person was more important than the task.
How much better off would we all be if everyone was people-oriented instead of task-oriented? We're all so focused on "what we need to do" that we lose sight of the human connection. I see this at the place were I spend most of my time besides my house. Everyone is so focused on getting "stuff" done right that the people really don't matter at all. Inservice after inservice address issues dealing with how things are done, but almost nothing is said about people. Nobody cares what we do, as long as we put the right spin on it when we write about it.
But before this totally falls into a blog about stupidity, I'll just quit and find lunch.
_____ of the day: does it even matter anymore?
The laughing-because-I-don't-care Ogukuo
How much better off would we all be if everyone was people-oriented instead of task-oriented? We're all so focused on "what we need to do" that we lose sight of the human connection. I see this at the place were I spend most of my time besides my house. Everyone is so focused on getting "stuff" done right that the people really don't matter at all. Inservice after inservice address issues dealing with how things are done, but almost nothing is said about people. Nobody cares what we do, as long as we put the right spin on it when we write about it.
But before this totally falls into a blog about stupidity, I'll just quit and find lunch.
_____ of the day: does it even matter anymore?
The laughing-because-I-don't-care Ogukuo
05 May 2008
I love the smell of irony in the morning
Today at our weekly meeting I realized a wonderful dichotomy that really sums up my job. My official job title is "Certified Instructor". Its an appropriate title, right? I've always thought so. Part of my job is to write daily assessments of what each boy does with his time, and how we interact with them. And for reasons unbeknownst to me, people get really cranky when we actually do this. We are required to sugar coat everything to the point where someone reading these assessments would see no reason for our boys to be in a group home. We are even given a list of words that we are not allowed to use in writing these assessments. One of these words is "instruct". I'm not allowed to write "I instructed so-and-so to do their chores". Thus, by the very rules of my job as an instructor, I am not allowed to instruct.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I remove my hat and take a bow towards the bureaucracy that has contradicted itself into so many knots that I am not even allowed to live up to my job title.
I find this little nugget of irony to be not only hilarious, but also emblematic of what is wrong with my job.
Thats all I got for today; savor the irony, its pretty thick.
______ of the day: For some reason the word dunderhead comes to mind.
The ironic Ogukuo
Ladies and Gentlemen, I remove my hat and take a bow towards the bureaucracy that has contradicted itself into so many knots that I am not even allowed to live up to my job title.
I find this little nugget of irony to be not only hilarious, but also emblematic of what is wrong with my job.
Thats all I got for today; savor the irony, its pretty thick.
______ of the day: For some reason the word dunderhead comes to mind.
The ironic Ogukuo
30 April 2008
Washington is to Iowa as Mountainous is to...
I got back from visiting Andrea in Washington last night. It was a great time! We did tons of fun stuff, most of which were games of catch. I also wondered around Bellingham by myself for a good portion of Friday. This was a wonderful experiance, I'm starting to fall in love with Bellingham. And Birch Bay. And the beautiful view from Lynden on a clear day. And many more small things about the area that are too numerous to list here.
Now that I am back, however, I am feeling unmotivated to do anything. You know that feeling of returning from vacation and getting back "home" and settling in? I don't feel it at all. I feel like I left what I am comfortable with and came back to what I'm doing just to get by. Knowing that I'm moving to the area I just left makes it feel more like home. And leaving someone to return "home" is really more like saying goodbye and leaving home.
And knowing that I'm returning to 5 straight days of work doesn't help. I don't have a free evening until next Monday. I think it is this particular aspect of life out here that I am really ready to move on from. And as soon as possible. Its hard knowing that I'm done in just a few months, but for now I'm kinda stuck. Especially when I'm already dreading going in pretty much every day.
But, back to happy news, it looks as if my job situation out there is starting to align itself. Its too early to say yet, but its looking good. And it sounds like a job where I wouldn't be stuck in an office 40 hours a week, this is very happy. Also, my grandparents have a strong chance of getting a house in Lynden, which is good. I've been considering this for one of my housing options for the fall, so knowing that its more of an option is a good thing.
Well, on to take a shower where I have little water pressure, questionable hot water, and no vent fan to wisk away the steam. And thats after a week with access to a shower with awesome pressure, unending hot water, and a real vent to keep the bathroom unfogged. But its ok, my corner of the unfinished basement with thin carpet rolled out over concrete is so much nicer than a fully padded and carpeted room with a real bedroom door and a window.
______ of the day: How many more months?
The ready-to-move-on Ogukuo
Now that I am back, however, I am feeling unmotivated to do anything. You know that feeling of returning from vacation and getting back "home" and settling in? I don't feel it at all. I feel like I left what I am comfortable with and came back to what I'm doing just to get by. Knowing that I'm moving to the area I just left makes it feel more like home. And leaving someone to return "home" is really more like saying goodbye and leaving home.
And knowing that I'm returning to 5 straight days of work doesn't help. I don't have a free evening until next Monday. I think it is this particular aspect of life out here that I am really ready to move on from. And as soon as possible. Its hard knowing that I'm done in just a few months, but for now I'm kinda stuck. Especially when I'm already dreading going in pretty much every day.
But, back to happy news, it looks as if my job situation out there is starting to align itself. Its too early to say yet, but its looking good. And it sounds like a job where I wouldn't be stuck in an office 40 hours a week, this is very happy. Also, my grandparents have a strong chance of getting a house in Lynden, which is good. I've been considering this for one of my housing options for the fall, so knowing that its more of an option is a good thing.
Well, on to take a shower where I have little water pressure, questionable hot water, and no vent fan to wisk away the steam. And thats after a week with access to a shower with awesome pressure, unending hot water, and a real vent to keep the bathroom unfogged. But its ok, my corner of the unfinished basement with thin carpet rolled out over concrete is so much nicer than a fully padded and carpeted room with a real bedroom door and a window.
______ of the day: How many more months?
The ready-to-move-on Ogukuo
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)