They look like little trees. They are green. But can broccoli help prevent heart attacks? There was a study recently that suggests that broccoli can reduce the risk of heart attack. Personally, I can eat some steamed broccoli without any encouragement - but that sure would be cool, if it were true. What I like about Medical News Today is that they evaluate the claim by summarizing the study, the results, and the researchers interpretation and then give their own. MNT isn't quite sold on the claim BUT they say broccoli can't hurt.
Since I'm speaking of broccoli I should probably post a recipe. But....I don't have one. I just steam mine and eat it - straight up. Plus, I haven't worked out or cooked much since I got to Boston - hence the reason I feel like an obese buffalo. So instead I'll just point you to the broccoli bisque at Don't Get Mad, Get Vegan. I haven't made (yet) but I have faith that it is delicious!
Work is......well.....intense. I'm totally inspired by what they do but not quite sure if I'll fit into the office culture or get the hang of mentoring. They keep telling me they don't expect me to pick up the interview/mentoring techniques naturally or by intiution but evidence is to the contrary. I haven't cooked much, as stated above, but I did bake pumpkin muffins from Vegan with a Vengeance on Friday. I'm not sure if they were a hit or not but I liked them.
Alright. Off to find and go to mass (I missed 8am mass at St. Anthony's in Portuguese), do some grocery shopping, and watch Their Will be Blood. I got my syllabus yesterday for one of my classes, which starts next Saturday. AHHHHHHH!!!! Lots and lots and lots of reading. I'll be one busy lil bee.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
where did it go?
time that is! It has nearly been a week since my last post.
In that time I started a new job, hosted a cousin I haven't seen in probably 15 years, attended my roommates housewarming party, reconnected with another cousin, started reading for a class that starts next Saturday, and did three loads of laundry at the sketchy laundry mat down the block.
FOOD:
I kept food nearly vegan for my cousin (who is vegetarian, and practically my twin in background, humanitarian concerns, and sense of humor). We ate breakfast at Bagel Rising and Veggie Planet. She took pics of the yummy blueberry waffles at VP but alas, I did not. (We, the cousins, discovered that not taking pictures runs in the family). My cousins also loved the Lebanese food at Reef. And I whipped up a batch of chocolate chip muffins from a Cherrybrook mix that were a hit. (the mixes happen to be on sale at Shaw's).
ACTIVITIES:
It was cold. Really, really, really cold. Bitterly so. But my cousin, from Georgia, was a trooper (and an incredibly light packer to boot). Somehow she ended up going to the MFA three of the four days she was here. I am responsible for two trips, once was to see The Axe in the Attic, a truly moving documentary on post-Katrina realities and the filmmakers point of view. The women who sat behind us were big talkers, which I decided to tolerate in the spirit of my Brasilian influences. That only lasted until they started making lunch plans for McDonald's. The second trip, the next day was to use my free museum pass and see the Napoleon exhibit for $8 instead of $23. It was well worth $8, I'm not sure I'd say the same about $23. I took her for a brief stroll around Boston Commons and for a quick look around the Boston Public Library at Copley. But mostly....we just talked. About Cuba, and Brasil, and East Asian languages, and the difference between knitting and crocheting, and family, and boys, and the weather. It was fantastic.
BEST:
-The fact that my cousin took the risk of spending nearly 300 dollars to meet a stranger. To know her is to love her. She has an infectous laugh, she is beautiful, smart, and not at all cynical. I miss her already.
-That my other cousin, who lives in eastern MA, is just as great. And can sing. Woohoo.
-When the three cousins got together we planned an AMAZING trip to the Grand Canyon from August 9th to August 16th. All the cousins are invited, but no matter how many attend I couldn't be more thrilled.
-I also really enjoyed meeting one of my roommates friends who is consider becoming vegan. I really liked showing her cookbooks, hearing her own journey to veganism, reviewing local restaurants, and articulating my own reasons for being vegan. I love being vegan!
In that time I started a new job, hosted a cousin I haven't seen in probably 15 years, attended my roommates housewarming party, reconnected with another cousin, started reading for a class that starts next Saturday, and did three loads of laundry at the sketchy laundry mat down the block.
FOOD:
I kept food nearly vegan for my cousin (who is vegetarian, and practically my twin in background, humanitarian concerns, and sense of humor). We ate breakfast at Bagel Rising and Veggie Planet. She took pics of the yummy blueberry waffles at VP but alas, I did not. (We, the cousins, discovered that not taking pictures runs in the family). My cousins also loved the Lebanese food at Reef. And I whipped up a batch of chocolate chip muffins from a Cherrybrook mix that were a hit. (the mixes happen to be on sale at Shaw's).
ACTIVITIES:
It was cold. Really, really, really cold. Bitterly so. But my cousin, from Georgia, was a trooper (and an incredibly light packer to boot). Somehow she ended up going to the MFA three of the four days she was here. I am responsible for two trips, once was to see The Axe in the Attic, a truly moving documentary on post-Katrina realities and the filmmakers point of view. The women who sat behind us were big talkers, which I decided to tolerate in the spirit of my Brasilian influences. That only lasted until they started making lunch plans for McDonald's. The second trip, the next day was to use my free museum pass and see the Napoleon exhibit for $8 instead of $23. It was well worth $8, I'm not sure I'd say the same about $23. I took her for a brief stroll around Boston Commons and for a quick look around the Boston Public Library at Copley. But mostly....we just talked. About Cuba, and Brasil, and East Asian languages, and the difference between knitting and crocheting, and family, and boys, and the weather. It was fantastic.
BEST:
-The fact that my cousin took the risk of spending nearly 300 dollars to meet a stranger. To know her is to love her. She has an infectous laugh, she is beautiful, smart, and not at all cynical. I miss her already.
-That my other cousin, who lives in eastern MA, is just as great. And can sing. Woohoo.
-When the three cousins got together we planned an AMAZING trip to the Grand Canyon from August 9th to August 16th. All the cousins are invited, but no matter how many attend I couldn't be more thrilled.
-I also really enjoyed meeting one of my roommates friends who is consider becoming vegan. I really liked showing her cookbooks, hearing her own journey to veganism, reviewing local restaurants, and articulating my own reasons for being vegan. I love being vegan!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Falling in Love
Love....a racing heart, butterflies in the stomach, an inexplicable smile. I've started to notice that I'm exhibiting some of the symptoms. What is his name you ask? Well, it is a tad more complicated then that.
I feel myself falling in love....
1. BOSTON
My first week here I was regretting my decision. It's cold. SOSOSOSO cold. A MBTA bus driver is just as likely to watch you run to their bus (stopped at a red light) and drive off without opening the doors as they are to ignore your pleas for directions. I was on my fourth interview, to seemingly no avail. The vegan food scene leaves something to be desired. The museums are pathetically few. But then....something happened.....and I've started to fall in love.
I had fun walking through the beautiful newly fallen 6 inches of snow yesterday.
I got the job (and start tomorrow). Woohoo!
The grocery stores here have TONS of vegan options.
I saw people cross country skiing to work. Awesome!
They say warsh. I could listen to that accent all day.
2. LIBRARIES
If you didn't know I moved to Boston to complete my masters in Library Science at Simmons College. I was starting to wonder if that was what I wanted. At Simmons I HAVE to meet with my advisor and fill out an annoying sheet with my plan of study. The only classes I want to take are at Mt. Holyoke - TWO hours away. Every library I've walked into recently seems to be a silent tomb devoid of life. But then....something happened....and I've started to fall in love (all over again).
I signed up for my bright orange BPL (boston public library) card and was reminded of all the amazing services that libraries provide (books, dvds, internet, meeting space, classes).
I picked up a free museum pass to the MFA (museum of fine arts) using my library card.
I read about all the cool programs the main library at Copley Square offers.
I got the reading list for my "Young Adult Literature" class and am excited to read the books.
I didn't have to buy books for class because I checked them out from the library. sweet!
3. COLD WEATHER
This will come as a shock to my friends and family but it is kinda true. Sure, as I walked down the street today tears and snot were streaming down my face it was so cold. I haven't run outside since last Friday (or worked out at all) because I lose feeling in my toes after about 3 minutes. And next week an Artic Front is rolling in. Cold weather from the ARTIC - it gets much colder apparently. That is gonna be cold. But I can't help it....
I look cute in scarves, hats, and gloves.
I like how rosy my cheeks get from the near hypothermia.
I really enjoy walking fast and the weather gives me an excuse.
I adore my black clunky snow boots, despite their ugliness, and now have a reason to wear them constantly.
I have a jacket fetish and now have a legitimate reason to buy them.
I just hope I also fall in love with boys, classes, and work. That remains to be seen.....
I feel myself falling in love....
1. BOSTON
My first week here I was regretting my decision. It's cold. SOSOSOSO cold. A MBTA bus driver is just as likely to watch you run to their bus (stopped at a red light) and drive off without opening the doors as they are to ignore your pleas for directions. I was on my fourth interview, to seemingly no avail. The vegan food scene leaves something to be desired. The museums are pathetically few. But then....something happened.....and I've started to fall in love.
I had fun walking through the beautiful newly fallen 6 inches of snow yesterday.
I got the job (and start tomorrow). Woohoo!
The grocery stores here have TONS of vegan options.
I saw people cross country skiing to work. Awesome!
They say warsh. I could listen to that accent all day.
2. LIBRARIES
If you didn't know I moved to Boston to complete my masters in Library Science at Simmons College. I was starting to wonder if that was what I wanted. At Simmons I HAVE to meet with my advisor and fill out an annoying sheet with my plan of study. The only classes I want to take are at Mt. Holyoke - TWO hours away. Every library I've walked into recently seems to be a silent tomb devoid of life. But then....something happened....and I've started to fall in love (all over again).
I signed up for my bright orange BPL (boston public library) card and was reminded of all the amazing services that libraries provide (books, dvds, internet, meeting space, classes).
I picked up a free museum pass to the MFA (museum of fine arts) using my library card.
I read about all the cool programs the main library at Copley Square offers.
I got the reading list for my "Young Adult Literature" class and am excited to read the books.
I didn't have to buy books for class because I checked them out from the library. sweet!
3. COLD WEATHER
This will come as a shock to my friends and family but it is kinda true. Sure, as I walked down the street today tears and snot were streaming down my face it was so cold. I haven't run outside since last Friday (or worked out at all) because I lose feeling in my toes after about 3 minutes. And next week an Artic Front is rolling in. Cold weather from the ARTIC - it gets much colder apparently. That is gonna be cold. But I can't help it....
I look cute in scarves, hats, and gloves.
I like how rosy my cheeks get from the near hypothermia.
I really enjoy walking fast and the weather gives me an excuse.
I adore my black clunky snow boots, despite their ugliness, and now have a reason to wear them constantly.
I have a jacket fetish and now have a legitimate reason to buy them.
I just hope I also fall in love with boys, classes, and work. That remains to be seen.....
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Boston - Jan.14th to 21st....no....17th
Awesome. We (me and the fellow residents of New England) are supposed to get...oh I don't know....up to 10 inches of snow between today and tomorrow. I don't know that I've seen that much snow up close this century. If I am able to open my front door there are some things I'll be looking into this week and some stuff I just think sounds cool.
MONDAY
*Wine Tasting for the Complete Novice (6:30pm)
The Boston Wine School has a 4 class series starting this Monday. I won't be attending because of price, time, and probable lack of vegan/organic wines. BUT....I thought it sounded too cool not to include. Cost - TWO hundred buckaroos. Sidenote - I used to hate wine and then I turned 28 and my vision got worse, my cellulite doubled, and now I like wine. Doesn't seem worth it......
*Eyes on the Prize: 4 Little Girls at Boston Public Library (6pm)
The Boston Public Library (I love libraries) at Copley Square will be showing 4 Little Girls at 6pm. Cost - FREE (because libraries are the best use of your tax dollars ever!). Here is a January calendar of events. Depending on the weather (moan, groan, moan) I may go.
*Madeleine Albright at the JFK Library and Museum (5:30pm)
She will be talking about her new book. I definitely respect the controversy surrounding decisions she did (or didn't) make during her tenure as secretary of state, but regardless - this woman is a powerhouse. Requires registration. Cost - free?
TUESDAY
*Hummus Taste-Off at MIT (12pm)
Ummmm....yeah. Why not? It is open to the public and free.
WEDNESDAY
*Human Rights Watch International Film Festival (16th, 19th, 20th of this week)
A description of the event and each film can be found here. I will probably be dropping in for The Axe in the Attic, Cocalero, and Nanking. I am most interested in Cocalero but it is unlikely I will make it due to work (with any luck), a long lost visiting cousin (woohoo), and house warming party that night. At my house. Cost - ranges from $8-12.
*Third by Wendy Wasserstein (various times)
Third, a play written by Wendy Wasserstein, is playing at the Hungtington Theater. The Boston Globe did a write up on the play - I think it sounds good (my sophisticated analysis reveals my deep understanding and appreciation of the performing arts). Cost - the worst seats imaginable go for $15 and the next price point seems to be $40.
*Coit Observatory at BU - "Public Open Night at the Observatory" (7:30pm)
Depending on the weather (I pray that it isn't still snowing) the observatory at BU is open to the public on Wednesday nights starting at 7:30pm (during the winter). Call 617-353-2630 at about 5:30pm to see if it is still on. I'm all about astronomy (a class that I got a 4.0 in college and yet learned absolutely NOTHING) after going to the Hayden Planetarium. I probably won't go this week since I plan on attending the HRW Film Festival opening. Cost - free?
THURSDAY
*The Winter's Concert (8pm)
Don't forget - the benefit concert for Spare Change will be Thursday night at the Paradise Lounge. The mission statement: "Spare Change and the Homeless Empowerment Project (HEP) is to play a role in ending homelessness in our community by providing income, skill development and self-advocacy opportunities to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness." My cousin flies in from Atlanta (and hopefully doesn't pass out from hypothermia) but I'll still be going before her arrival. Cost - $10 and WELL worth it.
*Gardner After Hours (5-9pm)
A cool new nationwide museum trend is to stay open late with music and sometimes alcohol. This one occurs the third Thursday of every month. Haven't been to this museum, much less their after hours festivities, but it can't hurt to check it out. Cost - $12 for adults, $5 for students, more if you get tickets to the concert piece as well
-Third (listed above)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Okay. I've been at this for over 2 hours. It is really a lot of work. (especially since I don't even think anyone that lives in Boston reads my blog or can use it....) If I have time tomorrow I'll try to research some more for weekend events. If you have any ideas or insider tips feel free to pass them along.
MONDAY
*Wine Tasting for the Complete Novice (6:30pm)
The Boston Wine School has a 4 class series starting this Monday. I won't be attending because of price, time, and probable lack of vegan/organic wines. BUT....I thought it sounded too cool not to include. Cost - TWO hundred buckaroos. Sidenote - I used to hate wine and then I turned 28 and my vision got worse, my cellulite doubled, and now I like wine. Doesn't seem worth it......
*Eyes on the Prize: 4 Little Girls at Boston Public Library (6pm)
The Boston Public Library (I love libraries) at Copley Square will be showing 4 Little Girls at 6pm. Cost - FREE (because libraries are the best use of your tax dollars ever!). Here is a January calendar of events. Depending on the weather (moan, groan, moan) I may go.
*Madeleine Albright at the JFK Library and Museum (5:30pm)
She will be talking about her new book. I definitely respect the controversy surrounding decisions she did (or didn't) make during her tenure as secretary of state, but regardless - this woman is a powerhouse. Requires registration. Cost - free?
TUESDAY
*Hummus Taste-Off at MIT (12pm)
Ummmm....yeah. Why not? It is open to the public and free.
WEDNESDAY
*Human Rights Watch International Film Festival (16th, 19th, 20th of this week)
A description of the event and each film can be found here. I will probably be dropping in for The Axe in the Attic, Cocalero, and Nanking. I am most interested in Cocalero but it is unlikely I will make it due to work (with any luck), a long lost visiting cousin (woohoo), and house warming party that night. At my house. Cost - ranges from $8-12.
*Third by Wendy Wasserstein (various times)
Third, a play written by Wendy Wasserstein, is playing at the Hungtington Theater. The Boston Globe did a write up on the play - I think it sounds good (my sophisticated analysis reveals my deep understanding and appreciation of the performing arts). Cost - the worst seats imaginable go for $15 and the next price point seems to be $40.
*Coit Observatory at BU - "Public Open Night at the Observatory" (7:30pm)
Depending on the weather (I pray that it isn't still snowing) the observatory at BU is open to the public on Wednesday nights starting at 7:30pm (during the winter). Call 617-353-2630 at about 5:30pm to see if it is still on. I'm all about astronomy (a class that I got a 4.0 in college and yet learned absolutely NOTHING) after going to the Hayden Planetarium. I probably won't go this week since I plan on attending the HRW Film Festival opening. Cost - free?
THURSDAY
*The Winter's Concert (8pm)
Don't forget - the benefit concert for Spare Change will be Thursday night at the Paradise Lounge. The mission statement: "Spare Change and the Homeless Empowerment Project (HEP) is to play a role in ending homelessness in our community by providing income, skill development and self-advocacy opportunities to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness." My cousin flies in from Atlanta (and hopefully doesn't pass out from hypothermia) but I'll still be going before her arrival. Cost - $10 and WELL worth it.
*Gardner After Hours (5-9pm)
A cool new nationwide museum trend is to stay open late with music and sometimes alcohol. This one occurs the third Thursday of every month. Haven't been to this museum, much less their after hours festivities, but it can't hurt to check it out. Cost - $12 for adults, $5 for students, more if you get tickets to the concert piece as well
-Third (listed above)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Okay. I've been at this for over 2 hours. It is really a lot of work. (especially since I don't even think anyone that lives in Boston reads my blog or can use it....) If I have time tomorrow I'll try to research some more for weekend events. If you have any ideas or insider tips feel free to pass them along.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Purpose
Ugh - what is this bleepin' blog about? I love talking about myself and all my inane ideas/opinions but I need a flippin' purpose. (bear with me, i'm lovin' abbreviatin' words) On Monday I will hopefully be getting a full time job (after two in-person interviews and two phone interviews I deserve it!!!). Additionally, classes start at the end of the month which will require me getting a stinkin' shuttle at 7:15am every Saturday morning -taking two classes- and getting back to Boston at 6:15pm (stupid Simmons doesn't offer the classes i want at the times i want on main campus, oh....and....i registered for classes late). So if I don't have a lot of time to waste writing LONG aimless posts what will I do?
WON'T/CAN'T/SHOULDN'T DO.......
- Food. Posting vegan recipes is a joke when so many others do it and do it 100x better then I could. I love to cook but I don't do it all that often and feel like a dork when I take pictures of food.
-Restaurants. Would love to just review vegan food at restaurants but once again my dislike (or is it just inability?) of food photography rules this out.
-Veganism. Could post links about veganism but I'm really just a fake vegan who eats honey and wears thrift store wool sweaters. I do think feeding ducks until they nearly explode so they get fatty livers is mean but I think genocide and rape in refuge camps is meaner. So....I'll leave awareness outreach to others.
So.....hmmm.....what do I care about? What am I good at? Possibilities:
*I am going to be a librarian one day (and on that day I'll be 30,000 dollars in debt) so posting resources and/or links actually really appeals to me. But to what????
*I love health related issues - like ways to prevent type 2 diabetes (healthy diet, exercise, and over 6 hours of sleep a night), pointing out that there may be some value to processed foods (processed tomatoes may have higher lycopene bioavailability), or letting people know that calcium can decrease severity of menstrual cramps. ** just remember that 1 cup cooked collard greens has more calcium then 1 cup nonfat milk (as compared by the USDA)**
*I love cultural events. One day I hope to love Boston. I'll combine the two and review/advertise local happenings.
*I worry about social justice and hope to be a part of the solution, not just a whiner. I can also push causes I deem worthy.
I think I'll do a combo of posting/pushing/informing "you" about the three.
Alright - new blog mission statement
"blah, blah, blah" (work in progress)
How to know what is what.....LABELS!
Editorial: a post labeled editorial will be my witty, ingenius, fantastic views on some issue
Review: a post labeled review will be my witty, ingenius, fantastic views on an event or product
Health: a post labeled health will be a link or reference (that my witty, ingenius, fantastic self has selected) to an issue pertaining to diet or exercise
Plug: a post labeled plug will be my witty, ingenius, fantastic way of trying to advertise a worthwhile cause, event, or pressing issue
WON'T/CAN'T/SHOULDN'T DO.......
- Food. Posting vegan recipes is a joke when so many others do it and do it 100x better then I could. I love to cook but I don't do it all that often and feel like a dork when I take pictures of food.
-Restaurants. Would love to just review vegan food at restaurants but once again my dislike (or is it just inability?) of food photography rules this out.
-Veganism. Could post links about veganism but I'm really just a fake vegan who eats honey and wears thrift store wool sweaters. I do think feeding ducks until they nearly explode so they get fatty livers is mean but I think genocide and rape in refuge camps is meaner. So....I'll leave awareness outreach to others.
So.....hmmm.....what do I care about? What am I good at? Possibilities:
*I am going to be a librarian one day (and on that day I'll be 30,000 dollars in debt) so posting resources and/or links actually really appeals to me. But to what????
*I love health related issues - like ways to prevent type 2 diabetes (healthy diet, exercise, and over 6 hours of sleep a night), pointing out that there may be some value to processed foods (processed tomatoes may have higher lycopene bioavailability), or letting people know that calcium can decrease severity of menstrual cramps. ** just remember that 1 cup cooked collard greens has more calcium then 1 cup nonfat milk (as compared by the USDA)**
*I love cultural events. One day I hope to love Boston. I'll combine the two and review/advertise local happenings.
*I worry about social justice and hope to be a part of the solution, not just a whiner. I can also push causes I deem worthy.
I think I'll do a combo of posting/pushing/informing "you" about the three.
Alright - new blog mission statement
"blah, blah, blah" (work in progress)
How to know what is what.....LABELS!
Editorial: a post labeled editorial will be my witty, ingenius, fantastic views on some issue
Review: a post labeled review will be my witty, ingenius, fantastic views on an event or product
Health: a post labeled health will be a link or reference (that my witty, ingenius, fantastic self has selected) to an issue pertaining to diet or exercise
Plug: a post labeled plug will be my witty, ingenius, fantastic way of trying to advertise a worthwhile cause, event, or pressing issue
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Bye-bye Bill - the other one
Looks like New Mexico governor Bill Richardson will be dropping out of contention for president.
I personally am bummed about it. I think he was/is the most accomplished and capable of all the contenders - and Hispanic to boot. woohooo!
I, unfortunately, don't get to vote in a primary or caucus - which almost makes me wish I lived in Iowa - but I can't say that I know who I would vote for if I did.
I did get back to the U.S. just in time to hear about Hillary crying and that Oprah had selected Barack for her book club....I mean president. With all respect to Edwards it loooks like the race is between two senators that didn't really impress me as senators. Looks like in November I'll be voting for a female Clinton who knows all about villages and Republican conspiracies or a pseudo-rockstar that gets all the single women swooning. I am not quite sure who I choose.
The pundits tell me Hillary pulls in the vote for those that make less then 50,000 (ME!) and Barack for those that are considered highly educated (ME! - if I say so myself). Left me kinda liking Bill (not to be confused with Clinton).
Whoever I end up voting for, I'm just glad we have a political process that requires GADS of cash, celebrity endorsements, and good hair.
I personally am bummed about it. I think he was/is the most accomplished and capable of all the contenders - and Hispanic to boot. woohooo!
I, unfortunately, don't get to vote in a primary or caucus - which almost makes me wish I lived in Iowa - but I can't say that I know who I would vote for if I did.
I did get back to the U.S. just in time to hear about Hillary crying and that Oprah had selected Barack for her book club....I mean president. With all respect to Edwards it loooks like the race is between two senators that didn't really impress me as senators. Looks like in November I'll be voting for a female Clinton who knows all about villages and Republican conspiracies or a pseudo-rockstar that gets all the single women swooning. I am not quite sure who I choose.
The pundits tell me Hillary pulls in the vote for those that make less then 50,000 (ME!) and Barack for those that are considered highly educated (ME! - if I say so myself). Left me kinda liking Bill (not to be confused with Clinton).
Whoever I end up voting for, I'm just glad we have a political process that requires GADS of cash, celebrity endorsements, and good hair.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Things to do in Boston
Get First Aid/CPR certified
Yesterday I spent the day at the RedCross in Cambridge receiving my Adult First Aid/CPR & AED certification. It was $75 for both certifications. Most participants were there for their jobs, just one other man and I were there to get the skills in case of an emergency. I am so glad I spent the money and time to do so. None of the skills I learned are "common sense". Last January a fellow coworker told me about a man that chocked to death on a piece of steak at a holiday party. At that time I would have had NO CLUE what to do, now I have a much better idea. I thought the program was very well organized, informative, and extremely beneficial. I highly recommend making the investment.
Run (very walkable city translates to very runnable city....dependent on temperatures)
I ran yesterday morning as well, for the first time in almost two weeks. It was nearly 50 degrees when I ran so I can't say it required a whole lot of motivation but I am glad that I did. I just ran straight down Commonwealth Ave (a.k.a. comm ave) so it wasn't adventurous but a paltry 32 minutes was still a challenge. I was cursed out by an aggressive cyclist and considered removing my name from the bike lane petition but decided to let this one slide. It rains today and gets progressively colder. Lets see if I continue to run. I stopped by a nearby gym to get some price information - $149 down, $79 a month. Whoa! At those prices I don't want to belong to a gym. But how else will I do cardio when it snows or lift weights? Ugh.
Support homeless empowerment
I recently bought a Spare Change News for $1. There is a similar paper available in DC. Their mission is "to present by our own example, that homeless and economically disadvantaged people, with proper resources, empowerment, opportunity, and encouragement are capable of creating change for ourselves in society." Who doesn't support that???? Make sure to buy the papers from vendors that wear an organge 2008 badge. Also, on January 17th, 2008 there will bea holiday benefit show "Winter's Concert" at Paradise Lounge at 8pm. Four artists will be performing: Destroy Babylon, Worlds Collide, Justin Shorey, and black button. I know nothing about any of the artists and am pretty sure they weren't chosen for their skill but for their willingness to help put. Regardless, I am going to set aside the 10 dollars and go. My lil cuz is flying in that day but I still have time to stop by for a little. I am all about empowerment - and this paper gives homeless a forum to write, publish, and distribute their issues and concerns.
Read about Mitt Romney
The papers in this city definitely cover their former governor far more then anywhere else. I'm actually impressed with Boston's political coverage. It doesn't rival DC's (for obvious reasons) but it far surpasses Southern California's. There is none of the political apathy or insanity found in my previous locales (as a gross overgeneralization). I am not sure who I want to win the Democratic nomination but I love all the interest in the political process.
Yesterday I spent the day at the RedCross in Cambridge receiving my Adult First Aid/CPR & AED certification. It was $75 for both certifications. Most participants were there for their jobs, just one other man and I were there to get the skills in case of an emergency. I am so glad I spent the money and time to do so. None of the skills I learned are "common sense". Last January a fellow coworker told me about a man that chocked to death on a piece of steak at a holiday party. At that time I would have had NO CLUE what to do, now I have a much better idea. I thought the program was very well organized, informative, and extremely beneficial. I highly recommend making the investment.
Run (very walkable city translates to very runnable city....dependent on temperatures)
I ran yesterday morning as well, for the first time in almost two weeks. It was nearly 50 degrees when I ran so I can't say it required a whole lot of motivation but I am glad that I did. I just ran straight down Commonwealth Ave (a.k.a. comm ave) so it wasn't adventurous but a paltry 32 minutes was still a challenge. I was cursed out by an aggressive cyclist and considered removing my name from the bike lane petition but decided to let this one slide. It rains today and gets progressively colder. Lets see if I continue to run. I stopped by a nearby gym to get some price information - $149 down, $79 a month. Whoa! At those prices I don't want to belong to a gym. But how else will I do cardio when it snows or lift weights? Ugh.
Support homeless empowerment
I recently bought a Spare Change News for $1. There is a similar paper available in DC. Their mission is "to present by our own example, that homeless and economically disadvantaged people, with proper resources, empowerment, opportunity, and encouragement are capable of creating change for ourselves in society." Who doesn't support that???? Make sure to buy the papers from vendors that wear an organge 2008 badge. Also, on January 17th, 2008 there will bea holiday benefit show "Winter's Concert" at Paradise Lounge at 8pm. Four artists will be performing: Destroy Babylon, Worlds Collide, Justin Shorey, and black button. I know nothing about any of the artists and am pretty sure they weren't chosen for their skill but for their willingness to help put. Regardless, I am going to set aside the 10 dollars and go. My lil cuz is flying in that day but I still have time to stop by for a little. I am all about empowerment - and this paper gives homeless a forum to write, publish, and distribute their issues and concerns.
Read about Mitt Romney
The papers in this city definitely cover their former governor far more then anywhere else. I'm actually impressed with Boston's political coverage. It doesn't rival DC's (for obvious reasons) but it far surpasses Southern California's. There is none of the political apathy or insanity found in my previous locales (as a gross overgeneralization). I am not sure who I want to win the Democratic nomination but I love all the interest in the political process.
Monday, January 7, 2008
First Boston Weekend
I'm in Boston. because I live here. Permanently. Hmm.....
I always forget how disorienting moving to a new place can be. Luckily, whenever I move, I am always able to piece together a haphazard network to get me started. Here in Boston I have my exboyfriend - who helped me unpack, navigate the T (NOT metro), and took me on a date to the Hayden Planetarium, the movie Juno, and Veggie Planet; there is my mom's best friend and fellow ex-pat who I call "tia" in the Brasilian style - she has invited me to dinner, offered suggestions on local gyms and looked into why I got no response on a resume I put in at BU (they hired internally); there is my uncle and cousin just 30 minutes away that I hope to see soon; and a friend I met in Brasil a few years ago - she was the first vegan I ever knew. So with my ragtag group of supporters I am not alone. But being alone or with friends isn't what makes being in a new place hard for me - it is finding my niche.
Sometimes the transition can be difficult. I have found that I don't do being cold so well, or unpacking (hence all the boxes still on the floor), or working out (it has officially been a week since I've done any exercise). The first two days here I wasn't liking my decision - I would almost be done with my degree if I stayed at CUA (nevermind the fact the program had almost nothing in my field of interest), DC is familiar and loaded with friends (nevermind that there were few Brasilians and opportunities to speak portugues), DC was warmer (nevermind the oppressively suffocating summers). I was wallowing a bit.
But a few adventures have brought me around. Going to my interview on Friday I got lost by taking the wrong bus. Now - how I can navigate Sao Paulo, a megacity of about 20 million, or NYC, a city of about 8 million, or even the comparably sized DC, of about 1/2 a million, without getting lost I don't quite understand. But I did - I took the 57 bus instead of the 66. The bus driver made my day though - he gave me all sorts of advice and tips and had a whole conversation with me about how it is supposed to warm up this week (in order to cheer me up a little). He was right - 42 degrees feels like a heat wave, honestly!
And then there was the interview itself (I made sure to call and say I was going to be late). The organization really seems amazing and I couldn't be more excited about the possibility of working there. "The mission of Summer Search is to find resilient, low-income high school students and inspire them to become responsible altruistic leaders by providing year-round mentoring, life changing summer experiences, college advising, and a lasting support network." Ummm....yeah! Sounds good to me. I have my second interview today and am hoping for the best.
I'm a little disappointed in Boston's vegan restaurant scene (I've been grossly spoiled by NYC). There is no Veg-Out Boston. There is for Chicago, Washington DC, San Francisco, Seattle and Portland, Denver and Salt Lake City - but not Boston. This doesn't bode well for my new city. So far I've eaten at TJ Scallywaggle's, Grasshopper (don't recommend the vegan cheesecake - the canned fruit topping is depressing and the texture is grainy, but all other food a go), My Thai Cafe and Bubble Tea (get the vegan cheesecake here instead), and Veggie Planet.
I really want to like TJ's food but I've eaten there twice.....and.....don't. I just don't think it is good food. The vegan cheese doesn't melt and ends up in chunky flavorless pieces. The bread and meat for the chikhin cheez sub was dry. The garlic bread was really bad - image taking a burnt piece of toast and dumping garlic powder on it, with little or no vegan margarine. It isn't pretty (I didn't take pics to avoid embarrasing them). But you know what - I'm going to keep giving them my money (I mean they are like a 5 minute walk from my house). I just really appreciate their role as a vegan community resource center. I support their petition to get bike lanes in Boston, I like their library (obviously) and that they make veg magazines available for reading, I like that they have a stated mission of building a progressive community. I've had the calzone, chikhin cheez sub, and garlic bread and not been a fan - but what do I know. Lots of people love their food so take my review with a grain of salt.
But my new favorite restaurant on the PLANET is VeggiePlanet. Their brunch was amazing and their business model is inspirational (they state 70% of their ingredients are local and they earmark profits for combating homelessness in Cambridge). They aren't quite as close to my house but worth the hike. I ordered the vegan oddlot on the pizza dough - the olives, spinach, garlic, and tofu-basil mash on that whole wheat thin crust - delicious! I handed the waiter my empty plate and said - yeah, obviously not that good. He replied, with concern, "oh - what did you have?" It took him a moment to realize I actually loved it and that is why I ate everything. I wish I had taken a picture but I was so hungry I couldn't wait. I don't recommend going hungry, especially during brunch - things move at a leisurely pace. Next time I am getting vegan waffles.
If you are ever visiting Boston, or live here, I highly recommend Hayden Planetarium at the Museum of Science. I went and saw the "Night Sky" program. Darryl, our "tour guide", was animated and passionate about teaching us how to look at the sky on our own. He showed us our very own urban sky here in Boston and convinced us (or me at least) that I can go out at 6pm, or 9pm, or 11pm, and see a variety of different constellations - even Mars! If you go on Friday night at 7pm admission is reduced to $6.50 (normally $9). Either price point is well worth it - and it is a great date idea.
To round out my conversion to liking Boston was my attendance at St. Anthony's on Sunday. The mass was in Brasilian Portuguese - and the church is just a mile walk from my house. It was a beautiful mass and (unlike when I was in Brasil) I loved that I didn't quite understand everything. My fluency has a long way to go but it isn't going anywhere if I don't practice.
On the Horizon -
There are other reasons right around the corner to increase my love of this newly adopted city. Frances Moore Lappe will be at Brookline Booksmith on January 21st (she wrote Diet for a Small Planet - a sacred text for all those who eat with purpose) and the Cure will be at Agganis Arena on May 12th (I LOVE the Cure). I'm sure more will appear daily and I'll keep you all posted.
I always forget how disorienting moving to a new place can be. Luckily, whenever I move, I am always able to piece together a haphazard network to get me started. Here in Boston I have my exboyfriend - who helped me unpack, navigate the T (NOT metro), and took me on a date to the Hayden Planetarium, the movie Juno, and Veggie Planet; there is my mom's best friend and fellow ex-pat who I call "tia" in the Brasilian style - she has invited me to dinner, offered suggestions on local gyms and looked into why I got no response on a resume I put in at BU (they hired internally); there is my uncle and cousin just 30 minutes away that I hope to see soon; and a friend I met in Brasil a few years ago - she was the first vegan I ever knew. So with my ragtag group of supporters I am not alone. But being alone or with friends isn't what makes being in a new place hard for me - it is finding my niche.
Sometimes the transition can be difficult. I have found that I don't do being cold so well, or unpacking (hence all the boxes still on the floor), or working out (it has officially been a week since I've done any exercise). The first two days here I wasn't liking my decision - I would almost be done with my degree if I stayed at CUA (nevermind the fact the program had almost nothing in my field of interest), DC is familiar and loaded with friends (nevermind that there were few Brasilians and opportunities to speak portugues), DC was warmer (nevermind the oppressively suffocating summers). I was wallowing a bit.
But a few adventures have brought me around. Going to my interview on Friday I got lost by taking the wrong bus. Now - how I can navigate Sao Paulo, a megacity of about 20 million, or NYC, a city of about 8 million, or even the comparably sized DC, of about 1/2 a million, without getting lost I don't quite understand. But I did - I took the 57 bus instead of the 66. The bus driver made my day though - he gave me all sorts of advice and tips and had a whole conversation with me about how it is supposed to warm up this week (in order to cheer me up a little). He was right - 42 degrees feels like a heat wave, honestly!
And then there was the interview itself (I made sure to call and say I was going to be late). The organization really seems amazing and I couldn't be more excited about the possibility of working there. "The mission of Summer Search is to find resilient, low-income high school students and inspire them to become responsible altruistic leaders by providing year-round mentoring, life changing summer experiences, college advising, and a lasting support network." Ummm....yeah! Sounds good to me. I have my second interview today and am hoping for the best.
I'm a little disappointed in Boston's vegan restaurant scene (I've been grossly spoiled by NYC). There is no Veg-Out Boston. There is for Chicago, Washington DC, San Francisco, Seattle and Portland, Denver and Salt Lake City - but not Boston. This doesn't bode well for my new city. So far I've eaten at TJ Scallywaggle's, Grasshopper (don't recommend the vegan cheesecake - the canned fruit topping is depressing and the texture is grainy, but all other food a go), My Thai Cafe and Bubble Tea (get the vegan cheesecake here instead), and Veggie Planet.
I really want to like TJ's food but I've eaten there twice.....and.....don't. I just don't think it is good food. The vegan cheese doesn't melt and ends up in chunky flavorless pieces. The bread and meat for the chikhin cheez sub was dry. The garlic bread was really bad - image taking a burnt piece of toast and dumping garlic powder on it, with little or no vegan margarine. It isn't pretty (I didn't take pics to avoid embarrasing them). But you know what - I'm going to keep giving them my money (I mean they are like a 5 minute walk from my house). I just really appreciate their role as a vegan community resource center. I support their petition to get bike lanes in Boston, I like their library (obviously) and that they make veg magazines available for reading, I like that they have a stated mission of building a progressive community. I've had the calzone, chikhin cheez sub, and garlic bread and not been a fan - but what do I know. Lots of people love their food so take my review with a grain of salt.
But my new favorite restaurant on the PLANET is VeggiePlanet. Their brunch was amazing and their business model is inspirational (they state 70% of their ingredients are local and they earmark profits for combating homelessness in Cambridge). They aren't quite as close to my house but worth the hike. I ordered the vegan oddlot on the pizza dough - the olives, spinach, garlic, and tofu-basil mash on that whole wheat thin crust - delicious! I handed the waiter my empty plate and said - yeah, obviously not that good. He replied, with concern, "oh - what did you have?" It took him a moment to realize I actually loved it and that is why I ate everything. I wish I had taken a picture but I was so hungry I couldn't wait. I don't recommend going hungry, especially during brunch - things move at a leisurely pace. Next time I am getting vegan waffles.
If you are ever visiting Boston, or live here, I highly recommend Hayden Planetarium at the Museum of Science. I went and saw the "Night Sky" program. Darryl, our "tour guide", was animated and passionate about teaching us how to look at the sky on our own. He showed us our very own urban sky here in Boston and convinced us (or me at least) that I can go out at 6pm, or 9pm, or 11pm, and see a variety of different constellations - even Mars! If you go on Friday night at 7pm admission is reduced to $6.50 (normally $9). Either price point is well worth it - and it is a great date idea.
To round out my conversion to liking Boston was my attendance at St. Anthony's on Sunday. The mass was in Brasilian Portuguese - and the church is just a mile walk from my house. It was a beautiful mass and (unlike when I was in Brasil) I loved that I didn't quite understand everything. My fluency has a long way to go but it isn't going anywhere if I don't practice.
On the Horizon -
There are other reasons right around the corner to increase my love of this newly adopted city. Frances Moore Lappe will be at Brookline Booksmith on January 21st (she wrote Diet for a Small Planet - a sacred text for all those who eat with purpose) and the Cure will be at Agganis Arena on May 12th (I LOVE the Cure). I'm sure more will appear daily and I'll keep you all posted.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Where in the world is Melissa?
Growing up I loved that computer game ~Where in the World is Carmen SanDiego~ and now I feel a little like her. One week ago I was landing on a flight that originated in Sao Paulo, Brasil. I spent three days in New York, caught a bus to Washington DC where I had a fantastic New Years Eve and tried to fit in quality time with as many friends as possible and yesterday I drove up a PACKED minivan to begin my new life in Boston. If you ever drive from DC to Boston here are my tips:
- I made one stop for gas, in New Jersey, and I'm glad it was there. It is mandatory full service (so I didn't have to stand outside) and gas was $2.88 a gallon, compared to $3.25 in NY or CT.
- When you get to the George Washington Bridge take the LOWER route (Local). I took the Upper route (express) and am still bitter about it. All trucks have to take the upper route so the traffic is much more congested (but you don't know that until after you make your choice). And once you select upper there is no switching over, unlike the lower route. If this makes no sense - that is okay - all you have to know is LOWER.
- Carry small bills and coins. I went through 8 tolls ranging from $1.25 to $6.45 for a total of $26.45. I had exact change each time so it went a little quicker. (sidenote - each and every tollbooth worker, in the freezing cold, was incredibly kind....smiling, saying hello, wishing me a great day - it was almost a pleasure to give them my few precious dollars)
- The trip isn't that long, just about 8 hours, so I brought along three sandwhiches I bought at StickyFingers Vegan Bakery ($16.34) and a bag of Tings from the supermarket ($2 - on sale). It was more food then I ate (except the fact that I almost ate a whole bag of Tings for about 800 calories, ugh). Take along food, don't waste money or calories on junk food.
- Watch out in Massachusetts. That is the state that easily had the most state troopers with radar guns just waiting to pounce.
All this travel comes at a cost. I haven't worked for 4 months, I just spent 600 to move my stuff (rental car, gas, tolls, snacks), and I've spent a huge amount of money on clothes and food this past week. I have a job interview today - lets hope I get it. I'm sick (and uninsured for the first time in my life - with any luck the wind chill out there doesn't knock me over and break my leg). And I feel discombulated - I haven't worked out since Monday (I was on such a roll), my new house just isn't my old house, and despite warnings of chilly temps I had no recollection of what 11 degrees actually felt like (it is cold). When I was in DC I didn't feel like I had a place there anymore, but I don't a place here either. No worries, I know this feeling well (3 states in the past 5 years). I adjusted really quickly to DC, I expect the same will happen here.
I plan on keeping busy. Looking for a job (and hopefully getting one) will occupy lots of time. I'm going to join the Boston Vegan Association (I've already linked up on facebook). They seem pretty active - I just wonder if a human rights activist can fit in with animal rights activists. I've already joined the Michigan State Alumni Association and hope to watch the basketball game Saturday night. I need to find a gym. I ran outside during the winter in DC but it must be at least 20 degrees colder here. I couldn't walk across a grocery store parking lot last night, I just don't know if I can run. I will say that I did see several "natives" yesterday with no jackets, hats, gloves, or scarfs - I can only hope that one day I too have lost my ability to feel as well. I saw the ex-boyfriend last night. That is complicated. I just think I don't want a boyfriend, even the old one. There is too much I want to do (including starting up a organic farm based on permaculture with a group of friends in DC). I feel selfish. I don't want to divide my time with a boy. I like feeling that way.
Okay. Off to prepare for the interview and unpack a little. I have really good feelings about 2008 and now that I am in one place I hopefully can start getting a handle on this new year and all my many resolutions.
(this is before, it may take a while before I post an after picture. teehee)
- I made one stop for gas, in New Jersey, and I'm glad it was there. It is mandatory full service (so I didn't have to stand outside) and gas was $2.88 a gallon, compared to $3.25 in NY or CT.
- When you get to the George Washington Bridge take the LOWER route (Local). I took the Upper route (express) and am still bitter about it. All trucks have to take the upper route so the traffic is much more congested (but you don't know that until after you make your choice). And once you select upper there is no switching over, unlike the lower route. If this makes no sense - that is okay - all you have to know is LOWER.
- Carry small bills and coins. I went through 8 tolls ranging from $1.25 to $6.45 for a total of $26.45. I had exact change each time so it went a little quicker. (sidenote - each and every tollbooth worker, in the freezing cold, was incredibly kind....smiling, saying hello, wishing me a great day - it was almost a pleasure to give them my few precious dollars)
- The trip isn't that long, just about 8 hours, so I brought along three sandwhiches I bought at StickyFingers Vegan Bakery ($16.34) and a bag of Tings from the supermarket ($2 - on sale). It was more food then I ate (except the fact that I almost ate a whole bag of Tings for about 800 calories, ugh). Take along food, don't waste money or calories on junk food.
- Watch out in Massachusetts. That is the state that easily had the most state troopers with radar guns just waiting to pounce.
All this travel comes at a cost. I haven't worked for 4 months, I just spent 600 to move my stuff (rental car, gas, tolls, snacks), and I've spent a huge amount of money on clothes and food this past week. I have a job interview today - lets hope I get it. I'm sick (and uninsured for the first time in my life - with any luck the wind chill out there doesn't knock me over and break my leg). And I feel discombulated - I haven't worked out since Monday (I was on such a roll), my new house just isn't my old house, and despite warnings of chilly temps I had no recollection of what 11 degrees actually felt like (it is cold). When I was in DC I didn't feel like I had a place there anymore, but I don't a place here either. No worries, I know this feeling well (3 states in the past 5 years). I adjusted really quickly to DC, I expect the same will happen here.
I plan on keeping busy. Looking for a job (and hopefully getting one) will occupy lots of time. I'm going to join the Boston Vegan Association (I've already linked up on facebook). They seem pretty active - I just wonder if a human rights activist can fit in with animal rights activists. I've already joined the Michigan State Alumni Association and hope to watch the basketball game Saturday night. I need to find a gym. I ran outside during the winter in DC but it must be at least 20 degrees colder here. I couldn't walk across a grocery store parking lot last night, I just don't know if I can run. I will say that I did see several "natives" yesterday with no jackets, hats, gloves, or scarfs - I can only hope that one day I too have lost my ability to feel as well. I saw the ex-boyfriend last night. That is complicated. I just think I don't want a boyfriend, even the old one. There is too much I want to do (including starting up a organic farm based on permaculture with a group of friends in DC). I feel selfish. I don't want to divide my time with a boy. I like feeling that way.
Okay. Off to prepare for the interview and unpack a little. I have really good feelings about 2008 and now that I am in one place I hopefully can start getting a handle on this new year and all my many resolutions.
(this is before, it may take a while before I post an after picture. teehee)
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