So. It happened. I finally got attacked by the Christmas spirit. And I even bought a coupla presents. I checked the date - and lo-and-behold, I was right on schedule; December 15th as predicted. Have to admit, though, I'm still not so keen on the Christmas carols. I know, I know. I'm a scrooge. But at least I admit I'm a scrooge. I love giving gifts - just not big on holiday-themed muzak that starts creating ear-worms over Halloween weekend. Because, yes folks, that's when the assault started this year.
My excuse can be that I'm heading to the exotic world of India for the holidays. So, while worrying about how the dreaded Dysentery Diet is going to affect me...only to find out that Hannah's Hieney needs to bring its own toilet paper - ! - because it's just not available in India.getting various vaccinations, and collecting various packages and items 'round town for my mother (just ASK me about the "bag of babies" and the uterus - I dare you!), I haven't had much time to be feel-good and get in the mood. The Christmas mood, that is.
I did have time for reflection, though, commuting to work on my glorious L Train the other day. I've had a really good year. One that I can look back on and be really proud of. Proud for making the more difficult personal and professional decisions and following my heart. Proud of the woman I am and am constantly becoming. So incredibly proud of our little 6-pack of Worker Bees in the NY office...what a feat we pulled off, y'all. Certainly makes me excited to see what a more-settled 2004 will bring! Ah...the anticipation of my 30th year!
And of course, then there's you...the "general public," otherwise known as my nearest and dearest. Thank you. Not just for your support and friendship, but for your honesty and the swift kicks to the backside when I needed them. The hugs, the tears, the words, the love...it's all been welcome whether or not I've conveyed that to you. Yes, a lot of personal growth comes from within, but the unconditional support of a network - friends, family, et al - is invaluable. So, I feel a heartfelt thank you and reminder that you're the best is in order.
Thank you!
I was rereading an all-time favorite book of mine recently. The idea was to read it and mark all the passages that resonated with me in order to pass it on...a little insight into the heart and mind of me, if you will. (Yes, only mildly terrifying, I know!) I came across a passage that I wanted to share.
"Sometimes you meet yourself on the road before you have a chance to learn the appropriate greeting. Faced with your own possibilities, the hard part is knowing a speech is not required. All you have to say is yes."
Pearl Cleage, What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day (p149)
It always reminds me of how scary it can be to see the "real" you - the you that you want to be, but you're not quite sure if you have the courage, the money, the qualifications, the _____ (insert insecurity here). It's frightening! But, you know what, it's also incredibly rewarding. And freeing. If there's one decision that I'm terribly proud of making in the
last year, it's that I took the leap.and found my net in New York. I followed my heart. And it petrified me - truthfully! But I listened the "voice" that said it was my path. I hope you listen to your own voices. They can be right!
So, I'm out. So is 2003. And, 2004, here we come! I'm excited on many levels. Stay tuned for pix from the Ashmore Excursion in India. Stay tuned for my marathon progress (oy vey!). Stay tuned for updates on the Romancing of Hannah. (slipping that one in there to make sure you're paying attention!)
Oh - in case I hadn't passed the word along, I've got a weblog - aka blog - goin' if you're interested in keeping up with my goings-on. Check it out: http://hashmore.blogspot.com/. Bookmark it and come back often!
Other than that, have a safe and incredibly happy holiday season.may all your dreams come true!
Much love and I'll see you in the new year,
Hannah
Kali & Maverick send canine snuggles!
Sunday, December 28, 2003
Tuesday, December 09, 2003
Just remembered a compliment I got of late...
A good pal o'mine was telling me of his admiration for Pink - the rock star of all rock stars. He happened to mention that whenever she crosses his mind, her songs come on the radio, or she comes up in converation, he thinks of me. The actual thought that he gave me was "Huh. That's who Hannah would be if she was a rock star."
Nifty, eh? Well, *I* happen to think so...Pink's pretty damn cool - and a cutie patootie, too!
Just my thought of the moment. Thanks for compliment, Craw-dad!
Nifty, eh? Well, *I* happen to think so...Pink's pretty damn cool - and a cutie patootie, too!
Just my thought of the moment. Thanks for compliment, Craw-dad!
Monday, December 08, 2003
Snowy birthday to me! Snowy birthday to meeeeeeeeeeee...
Just as I suspected it might, 29 is – so far – turning out to be grand. Ok, ok, ok. So it’s only been 3 days, but still. My birthday week was great. It might have been slightly skewed in my favor because I was rather obnoxious about counting down to the actual day. For weeks. Hey, I love birthdays in general, but particularly my own. Even more so when it’s a “cool” number like 29; my last twenty. Representative of the last vestiges of youth – ha! I’m now the last age I’ll ever admit to…just like my grandma. Eternally 29. Wait. That won’t work…I want to be 30!
It started with presents mid-week (that arrived way too quickly for my mother’s liking) from the parental units in In-jaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. Yes, the package requested that I wait until the actual day, but it also had a “yeah right!” underneath…proving once and for all that mothers really DO know all. Or maybe it’s that I’m more predictable than I’d like to believe. Hmmm. Don’t know that I like that. Regardless…I behaved myself and only opened one of the three packages inside. And the birthday cards. (A decision couldn’t be made as to which one, so I got THREE! I love being spoiled!!) And the other presents sat on my desk. And sat. And sat. And tempted. And seduced. And taunted. And begged to be opened. No, really. They did! So I HAD to give in…I just had to. It wouldn’t have been nice. Heh.
That was Wednesday. Three days before the “actual day.”
Friday, I came into the office to find an Elvis in gold laḿe sitting on my keyboard…I do love me some Elvis! Hunka hunka burnin’ love just for lil’ ol’ me. The flip side was that I also had a Storypeople card – and a lot of y’all know how I just LOVE Storypeople. (If you don’t know about them, hurry yourself to www.storypeople.com and devour! They’re awesome!) My mom called and sang her goofy version of “Happy Birthday” – on speakerphone. But that part was unbeknownst to her…I told her later. I HAD to share. Priceless! So the day-before-the-actual-day got off to a fabulous start, too.
Until the snow. We ALL know how much I adore cold, wet, white, wintery weather. It’s my favorite. Bah humbug. At least this time, it wasn’t ME doing the moving…just Olive and her couch. (If you haven’t heard the stories of Hannah moving in every type of inclement weather, just ask.) The snow that had been predicted to hold off until the afternoon began earlier than expected…and kept coming and coming and coming. Luckily, we didn’t have to leave the office for food supplies as we’ve begun a fantastic Lunch Co-op where we take turns cooking for each other. So, we had yummy sammiches for lunch. Well, everyone else had one…but y’all know me. I had to have two. Stuffed. Beyond stuffed. Believe it or not, I didn’t catch on when Olive let us know that after a brief respite, there would be “dessert.” Really, I was blonde – for just a few minutes. ;-)
To preface, I’d been bummed earlier in the week because I’d been outvoted in my pecan pie option for our holiday dinner. So, I’m on the phone. Giggling, laughing, minding my own bidness. And then I hear singing. My co-workers are amazing! Simply the best, to borrow Ms. Turner’s words. They got me a pecan birthday pie…candles and all. How totally cute is that? Oh. But we didn’t have just the pecan pie. We also had the sweet potato and apple crumb options. Thank gawd for women that can eat! I had 2 pieces – shocker. We rock! And rolled ourselves out of the “cafeteria,” back to our desks…only to close the office at 4:00pm because the weather was just that hideous.
One would think that the good birthday WEEK would end there, especially with a dire weather outlook, right? Well, wrong. The rest of my birthday weekend was definitely all warm and snuggly and I was spoiled and cherished…and I loved every minute of it! Some of y’all know that there’s a new boy “sniffing around” (to borrow my mother’s phraseology). Well, he came into town to help me transition from 28 to 29. We ate and drank and played Scrabble (really!) and I dodged snowballs…and had a wonderful time “basking in the luxury of each other’s company” (HIS phraseology!). How mushy did that make my insides go? Alright, dammit. I admit it! It exists. The softer-side-of-Hannah is coming out; full-force.
And that’s that. Or at least all the details I’ll divulge about the rest of the weekend. Heh. The birthday week continues with cards and presents still trickling in…but there’s a whole year that I’m looking forward to. If the last few days are representative of the year to come, then I’m even more excited than I’d have anticipated. I work with some of the kindest, most thoughtful, considerate people I’ve ever encountered - worldwide. I’m in serious Like with a fabulous man who likes me just the way I am (which one never fully appreciates how rare and wonderful that is until you’re given the gift). I have a job that I know I’m lucky to have – not just from a professional perspective, but from a human growth one as well. And I have lots and lots and lots of people who I’m blessed to call “friends.”
Yes, I have to admit, I’m damned lucky to be me. Blessed 165% to have the people and life I have. Thank you for being a part of it, y’all! As always, thank you for helping me become the woman I’m supposed to do. I certainly couldn’t do it without you!!
Happy, happy holidays!
Hugs and kisses,
hannah
“Dreams that do come true can be as unsettling as those that don't.” - Brett Butler
“If you don't risk anything you risk even more.” - Erica Jong
“What I am actually saying is that we need to be willing to let our intuition guide us, and then be willing to follow that guidance directly and fearlessly.” - Shakti Gawain
It started with presents mid-week (that arrived way too quickly for my mother’s liking) from the parental units in In-jaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. Yes, the package requested that I wait until the actual day, but it also had a “yeah right!” underneath…proving once and for all that mothers really DO know all. Or maybe it’s that I’m more predictable than I’d like to believe. Hmmm. Don’t know that I like that. Regardless…I behaved myself and only opened one of the three packages inside. And the birthday cards. (A decision couldn’t be made as to which one, so I got THREE! I love being spoiled!!) And the other presents sat on my desk. And sat. And sat. And tempted. And seduced. And taunted. And begged to be opened. No, really. They did! So I HAD to give in…I just had to. It wouldn’t have been nice. Heh.
That was Wednesday. Three days before the “actual day.”
Friday, I came into the office to find an Elvis in gold laḿe sitting on my keyboard…I do love me some Elvis! Hunka hunka burnin’ love just for lil’ ol’ me. The flip side was that I also had a Storypeople card – and a lot of y’all know how I just LOVE Storypeople. (If you don’t know about them, hurry yourself to www.storypeople.com and devour! They’re awesome!) My mom called and sang her goofy version of “Happy Birthday” – on speakerphone. But that part was unbeknownst to her…I told her later. I HAD to share. Priceless! So the day-before-the-actual-day got off to a fabulous start, too.
Until the snow. We ALL know how much I adore cold, wet, white, wintery weather. It’s my favorite. Bah humbug. At least this time, it wasn’t ME doing the moving…just Olive and her couch. (If you haven’t heard the stories of Hannah moving in every type of inclement weather, just ask.) The snow that had been predicted to hold off until the afternoon began earlier than expected…and kept coming and coming and coming. Luckily, we didn’t have to leave the office for food supplies as we’ve begun a fantastic Lunch Co-op where we take turns cooking for each other. So, we had yummy sammiches for lunch. Well, everyone else had one…but y’all know me. I had to have two. Stuffed. Beyond stuffed. Believe it or not, I didn’t catch on when Olive let us know that after a brief respite, there would be “dessert.” Really, I was blonde – for just a few minutes. ;-)
To preface, I’d been bummed earlier in the week because I’d been outvoted in my pecan pie option for our holiday dinner. So, I’m on the phone. Giggling, laughing, minding my own bidness. And then I hear singing. My co-workers are amazing! Simply the best, to borrow Ms. Turner’s words. They got me a pecan birthday pie…candles and all. How totally cute is that? Oh. But we didn’t have just the pecan pie. We also had the sweet potato and apple crumb options. Thank gawd for women that can eat! I had 2 pieces – shocker. We rock! And rolled ourselves out of the “cafeteria,” back to our desks…only to close the office at 4:00pm because the weather was just that hideous.
One would think that the good birthday WEEK would end there, especially with a dire weather outlook, right? Well, wrong. The rest of my birthday weekend was definitely all warm and snuggly and I was spoiled and cherished…and I loved every minute of it! Some of y’all know that there’s a new boy “sniffing around” (to borrow my mother’s phraseology). Well, he came into town to help me transition from 28 to 29. We ate and drank and played Scrabble (really!) and I dodged snowballs…and had a wonderful time “basking in the luxury of each other’s company” (HIS phraseology!). How mushy did that make my insides go? Alright, dammit. I admit it! It exists. The softer-side-of-Hannah is coming out; full-force.
And that’s that. Or at least all the details I’ll divulge about the rest of the weekend. Heh. The birthday week continues with cards and presents still trickling in…but there’s a whole year that I’m looking forward to. If the last few days are representative of the year to come, then I’m even more excited than I’d have anticipated. I work with some of the kindest, most thoughtful, considerate people I’ve ever encountered - worldwide. I’m in serious Like with a fabulous man who likes me just the way I am (which one never fully appreciates how rare and wonderful that is until you’re given the gift). I have a job that I know I’m lucky to have – not just from a professional perspective, but from a human growth one as well. And I have lots and lots and lots of people who I’m blessed to call “friends.”
Yes, I have to admit, I’m damned lucky to be me. Blessed 165% to have the people and life I have. Thank you for being a part of it, y’all! As always, thank you for helping me become the woman I’m supposed to do. I certainly couldn’t do it without you!!
Happy, happy holidays!
Hugs and kisses,
hannah
“Dreams that do come true can be as unsettling as those that don't.” - Brett Butler
“If you don't risk anything you risk even more.” - Erica Jong
“What I am actually saying is that we need to be willing to let our intuition guide us, and then be willing to follow that guidance directly and fearlessly.” - Shakti Gawain
Tuesday, December 02, 2003
Everybody Wins!
So, I'm volunteering. Not a shocker, I know. But I did want to let y'all in on a secret....it's really rewarding! Shhh!! Don't tell anyone. I certainly wouldn't want the world to find out that giving can sometimes be as good - or better - than getting.
Seriously, though, folks...I've "got" a little girl. Her name's Sarah and she's 8. She's in the second grade and she loves to read. I'm spending an hour a week with her...and we do "just" read. Pretty cool, huh? Those that know me well enough know that I'm a devout bookworm and that passing on my book addiction to kids is something I feel strongly about. Well, the passion for reading, but also literacy in general. So, for an hour a week, we do nothing but read. Ok, so we chat about families and life, but it's a reading-centered program. And I love it.
The program is called Everybody Wins and I'm sure it's in an elementary or middle school near you.
You should try it sometime.
Seriously, though, folks...I've "got" a little girl. Her name's Sarah and she's 8. She's in the second grade and she loves to read. I'm spending an hour a week with her...and we do "just" read. Pretty cool, huh? Those that know me well enough know that I'm a devout bookworm and that passing on my book addiction to kids is something I feel strongly about. Well, the passion for reading, but also literacy in general. So, for an hour a week, we do nothing but read. Ok, so we chat about families and life, but it's a reading-centered program. And I love it.
The program is called Everybody Wins and I'm sure it's in an elementary or middle school near you.
You should try it sometime.
Monday, November 24, 2003
I want to go away...
Who'd have thought that my itchy feet would be back so damned quickly? I've been in NYC for less than a year! Actually, it's not the "I need a new place to live" itchies, but more the "too many of my friends are out there having fun!" itchies. One's going to Rome. One gallivants all over for business. My mom's on the fast-track to becoming a famous movie extra in the Indian outback.
Oh wait. That's right. I'll have a HUGE itch relief in just a few weeks...the one that I got all those beastly jabs for. Yes, I did indeed hit the deck as I had what they called "moderate to severe" reaction to one of the shots. Grrr hisss.
So, where am I going? Well, my sis and I are heading out to good ol' India to visit the parental units. I've travelled the world, but I think this is the most exotic spot I'll have been to. (If "exotic" includes areas of the world that include the fabled Dysentery Diet, that is.) Stay tuned for Hannah in the East Stories. Whenever the Ashmores get together *something* random, silly, and/or story-worthy usually occurs. Oy vey!!!
Oh wait. That's right. I'll have a HUGE itch relief in just a few weeks...the one that I got all those beastly jabs for. Yes, I did indeed hit the deck as I had what they called "moderate to severe" reaction to one of the shots. Grrr hisss.
So, where am I going? Well, my sis and I are heading out to good ol' India to visit the parental units. I've travelled the world, but I think this is the most exotic spot I'll have been to. (If "exotic" includes areas of the world that include the fabled Dysentery Diet, that is.) Stay tuned for Hannah in the East Stories. Whenever the Ashmores get together *something* random, silly, and/or story-worthy usually occurs. Oy vey!!!
Work? What's work?
Here's "work" for me...it's not typical work. It's what I'd label "fun work"...we have fun. We like and even respect each other. We laugh and sing a lot. Ok, *I* sing a lot, the rest of the office just glares at me. We plan cool things - for our participants AND us. (I dare you to ask what we're planning for our holiday party...)
Check it out...come join us. Questions? Just ask!
www.avonwalk.org
Check it out...come join us. Questions? Just ask!
www.avonwalk.org
Wednesday, November 12, 2003
Catching up...before we get swamped in the holidays!
Howdy y’all!
So, the other day, I had a fabulous New York moment that – me being me, of course – I had to share. Riding the subway for my usual morning commute can sometimes be a bear. Lots of grumpy, uncaffeinated (me!), not morning (again…me!) people stuffed into a way-too-hot subway car, all getting more intimate with each other’s personal space than you would typically be on a third or fourth date with someone you *liked.* Add to the train delays because people are holding the doors open for just waaaaaaaaaay too long the fact that the conductors are typically bigger grouches than our favorite green Sesame Street character, good ol’ Oscar. Well, today was different. The other day, I had the BEST conductor ever.
We were stopped at 1st Avenue, the doors opened, and as he made the “stand clear of the closing doors” announcement, he added, “I’ll be here the same time tomorrow; hope to see you then!” And THEN, he started to sing some song that included the line, “Let’s do it again…” I’ve never heard the song, but it was great. Such a NY moment. Spontaneous laughter from a bunch of crabby NY-ers on their morning commute. Classic.
What else is new with me?? Well, winter is just ‘round the corner and I’m not so keen on the idea. Anyone have any ideas as to how I could prevent it? Ones that would keep my job for me? ;-) As in, no, I’m NOT moving for the 5th time this year just because it’s winter. I’m a weather-wuss, but dammit I hate moving!
I had a slightly scary statistical realization the other day. This year alone, I’ve had 7 friends give birth, 3 get married, 4 get engaged…and I found out about another pregnancy just the other day. Add that to the 50 other weddings I’ve been to in the last 5 or 6 years, the handful of babies in previous years, the weddings already on the calendar for next year, and the numbers can become terrifying! Thank goodness I love the person I am or I might feel like a total underachiever or that I was being left miles behind the pack…or something. ;-) Instead, I have lots of friends who like hearing my young, single Hannah-in-the-City stories. But I’m not a mischievous sort, so there aren’t any. Right?
I’m off to India in just over a month to visit the parental units. We’re doing all kinds of fun things, so stay tuned for stories and pictures! I can’t promise that my stories will be nearly as entertaining as my mother the Udaipurian movie star or her riding on elephants, but I’m sure something will happen. Get the Ashmores together and we typically come up for air with humorous stories to share.
My 29th birthday is fast approaching…and I’m really excited about it. Truly! I’ve decided to become an overachiever for my last 20. (Yes, please giggle…that’s the point.) In some format, I’m going to be doing 3 marathons. Don’t freak out totally; I’m only going to run ONE! And that won’t be until right around my next birthday…the big 3-0. I’m also going to be working/maybe bike riding/maybe something else our New York event again – marathon and a half. The first marathon (and a half, actually) I’m doing is the Avon Walk in Chicago. Working on this side has been so thoroughly rewarding that I decided I needed to get back on the walking side. Remind myself what it’s all about. So, if any of y’all want to meet me in Chicago next June, I’d love to see you. If you can’t make it, I’m always accepting financial support – heh. (Just click on the link at the bottom of the email to read more). Or maybe you want to join me on an island next December to support me as I RUN 26.2 miles. I’m toying with the idea of a tropical destination so that post-marathon I can collapse, be dragged down to the beach to re-hydrate and catch some sun; once re-hydrated, I’ll just drown myself in booze because I’d have turned 30 and I’d HAVE to celebrate. Yay!
So, that’s me. How are YOU?? Drop me a note and fill me in if I haven’t had the pleasure of chatting with you recently. Otherwise, stay tuned for more Hannah-in-the-City stories. And if you’re ever in this neck o’the woods, just holler…I’d love to meet up!
Hugs, kisses, and lotsa love,
Hannah
http://www.avonwalk.org/site/TR?pg=personal&fr_id=1041&px=1003435
“I am not an adventurer by choice but by fate.” - Vincent van Gogh
So, the other day, I had a fabulous New York moment that – me being me, of course – I had to share. Riding the subway for my usual morning commute can sometimes be a bear. Lots of grumpy, uncaffeinated (me!), not morning (again…me!) people stuffed into a way-too-hot subway car, all getting more intimate with each other’s personal space than you would typically be on a third or fourth date with someone you *liked.* Add to the train delays because people are holding the doors open for just waaaaaaaaaay too long the fact that the conductors are typically bigger grouches than our favorite green Sesame Street character, good ol’ Oscar. Well, today was different. The other day, I had the BEST conductor ever.
We were stopped at 1st Avenue, the doors opened, and as he made the “stand clear of the closing doors” announcement, he added, “I’ll be here the same time tomorrow; hope to see you then!” And THEN, he started to sing some song that included the line, “Let’s do it again…” I’ve never heard the song, but it was great. Such a NY moment. Spontaneous laughter from a bunch of crabby NY-ers on their morning commute. Classic.
What else is new with me?? Well, winter is just ‘round the corner and I’m not so keen on the idea. Anyone have any ideas as to how I could prevent it? Ones that would keep my job for me? ;-) As in, no, I’m NOT moving for the 5th time this year just because it’s winter. I’m a weather-wuss, but dammit I hate moving!
I had a slightly scary statistical realization the other day. This year alone, I’ve had 7 friends give birth, 3 get married, 4 get engaged…and I found out about another pregnancy just the other day. Add that to the 50 other weddings I’ve been to in the last 5 or 6 years, the handful of babies in previous years, the weddings already on the calendar for next year, and the numbers can become terrifying! Thank goodness I love the person I am or I might feel like a total underachiever or that I was being left miles behind the pack…or something. ;-) Instead, I have lots of friends who like hearing my young, single Hannah-in-the-City stories. But I’m not a mischievous sort, so there aren’t any. Right?
I’m off to India in just over a month to visit the parental units. We’re doing all kinds of fun things, so stay tuned for stories and pictures! I can’t promise that my stories will be nearly as entertaining as my mother the Udaipurian movie star or her riding on elephants, but I’m sure something will happen. Get the Ashmores together and we typically come up for air with humorous stories to share.
My 29th birthday is fast approaching…and I’m really excited about it. Truly! I’ve decided to become an overachiever for my last 20. (Yes, please giggle…that’s the point.) In some format, I’m going to be doing 3 marathons. Don’t freak out totally; I’m only going to run ONE! And that won’t be until right around my next birthday…the big 3-0. I’m also going to be working/maybe bike riding/maybe something else our New York event again – marathon and a half. The first marathon (and a half, actually) I’m doing is the Avon Walk in Chicago. Working on this side has been so thoroughly rewarding that I decided I needed to get back on the walking side. Remind myself what it’s all about. So, if any of y’all want to meet me in Chicago next June, I’d love to see you. If you can’t make it, I’m always accepting financial support – heh. (Just click on the link at the bottom of the email to read more). Or maybe you want to join me on an island next December to support me as I RUN 26.2 miles. I’m toying with the idea of a tropical destination so that post-marathon I can collapse, be dragged down to the beach to re-hydrate and catch some sun; once re-hydrated, I’ll just drown myself in booze because I’d have turned 30 and I’d HAVE to celebrate. Yay!
So, that’s me. How are YOU?? Drop me a note and fill me in if I haven’t had the pleasure of chatting with you recently. Otherwise, stay tuned for more Hannah-in-the-City stories. And if you’re ever in this neck o’the woods, just holler…I’d love to meet up!
Hugs, kisses, and lotsa love,
Hannah
http://www.avonwalk.org/site/TR?pg=personal&fr_id=1041&px=1003435
“I am not an adventurer by choice but by fate.” - Vincent van Gogh
Wednesday, October 08, 2003
I'm back...miss me?
Hello all!
Yes, I am crawling back OUT from under my rock. Our event is over and I’m now nearly back to normal. Well, as normal as this chica can possibly be. Heh. (Keep the asides to yourselves, puh-leeze!)
It’s been a crazy year so far. My experiences have ranged from sleeping on an island in the middle of the East River that’s infested with rats – it’s a myth, folks! – one of whom we named, affectionately, Randall, to becoming more intimately connected to the Tri-State area, its towns, roads, and railroads than I ever imagined humanly possible. Just ASK me about the time we went to Springfield, NJ for a meeting at a car dealership. Yes, a car dealership. Not just ANY car dealership, but one of the largest – if not THE largest – in the area. AND…they put our name up in lights. We have pictures. We’re STARS! ;-) I’m proficient in “walkie-talkie” speak. I can add a slew of highly irrelevant, random skills to my Potpourri section on my resume.
I’ve met a slew of people, mostly women, across the country who not only work in offices with the “normal” folk, but apparently we’re all highly-skilled laborers…we can sling barricades like nobody’s business; pack semi-trucks so there’s not a square inch of spare space; we can drive forklifts, lulls, and 24-foot trucks around every major city in the US; we can even fend of hurricanes and blackouts with a single hand! Ok, kidding; the Weather Gods assisted us with that one. Seriously, though, I’m simply amazed at the professional company I keep. We’ve seen the best and the worst in each other in various week-long segments all summer. And I’ve never admired a group of people more…or felt closer to them. We have a weird world to those on the outside peering in, but it works. It works really well.
And, no, that’s not the end. I’m also amazed by the commitment and everyday heroism of some of the folks I’ve encountered through our walk. Wow. It’s truly humbling. I know a lot of you see me as an over-zealous, do-gooding, cause-addicted loudmouth who’s always asking you to donate money to something or other. And I am. However, I’m such a small pea on the pod, you’d be amazed. *I’ve* been amazed. Not just the people who raise five, ten, or twenty THOUSAND dollars a year in the name of breast cancer…but the ones who struggle to raise even $500. Those men and women who have never been touched by breast cancer, to those who finished their radiation treatments the day before walking 39 miles in less than 48 hours. I’ve met people who reduce me to tears every time they express their gratefulness at simply breathing, seeing a sunset, holding a loved one’s hand.
Most importantly, I’ve broken life down to the smallest pieces and found blessings in all of them. It’s so easy to be carried away in our rut-filled lives and be grumpy, negative, and pessimistic. But stop. You’ve forgotten joy. You’ve forgotten your passions. You’ve forgotten yourself. Even I (she says condescendingly - :-P) get grouchy and snappish. But that’s invariably when I’ll get a call or an email from someone – whether it’s through work or my personal life – that reconnects me with humility. Something that puts life in perspective all over again. And I’m so, so grateful. I also thank the stars that I have people like y’all in my lives. People that understand my crazy life…and do a really good job of being patient with me – at least that’s how it appears to me. . You’ve all inspired and supported me in ways you might not be aware. As always, you’re continuing to help me become the best woman I can be in this lifetime. Thank you. I couldn’t say it enough
In case you have the time to peruse, I do have some pictures y’all can check out of some of Hannah’s Happenings over the last few months. This city-wannabe chick. :-p
General stuff – http://f2.pg.photos.yahoo.com/nannerli74.
Event-related stuff - http://f2.pg.photos.yahoo.com/hannahashmore.
So. Anyone know someone who can teach me how to use a jack-hammer? That’s the next skill I want to learn.
Much love,
Your fave blue-collar wannabe chick
Hannah
"My advice to you is not to inquire why or whither, but just to enjoy your ice cream while it's on your plate." - Thornton Wilder
Yes, I am crawling back OUT from under my rock. Our event is over and I’m now nearly back to normal. Well, as normal as this chica can possibly be. Heh. (Keep the asides to yourselves, puh-leeze!)
It’s been a crazy year so far. My experiences have ranged from sleeping on an island in the middle of the East River that’s infested with rats – it’s a myth, folks! – one of whom we named, affectionately, Randall, to becoming more intimately connected to the Tri-State area, its towns, roads, and railroads than I ever imagined humanly possible. Just ASK me about the time we went to Springfield, NJ for a meeting at a car dealership. Yes, a car dealership. Not just ANY car dealership, but one of the largest – if not THE largest – in the area. AND…they put our name up in lights. We have pictures. We’re STARS! ;-) I’m proficient in “walkie-talkie” speak. I can add a slew of highly irrelevant, random skills to my Potpourri section on my resume.
I’ve met a slew of people, mostly women, across the country who not only work in offices with the “normal” folk, but apparently we’re all highly-skilled laborers…we can sling barricades like nobody’s business; pack semi-trucks so there’s not a square inch of spare space; we can drive forklifts, lulls, and 24-foot trucks around every major city in the US; we can even fend of hurricanes and blackouts with a single hand! Ok, kidding; the Weather Gods assisted us with that one. Seriously, though, I’m simply amazed at the professional company I keep. We’ve seen the best and the worst in each other in various week-long segments all summer. And I’ve never admired a group of people more…or felt closer to them. We have a weird world to those on the outside peering in, but it works. It works really well.
And, no, that’s not the end. I’m also amazed by the commitment and everyday heroism of some of the folks I’ve encountered through our walk. Wow. It’s truly humbling. I know a lot of you see me as an over-zealous, do-gooding, cause-addicted loudmouth who’s always asking you to donate money to something or other. And I am. However, I’m such a small pea on the pod, you’d be amazed. *I’ve* been amazed. Not just the people who raise five, ten, or twenty THOUSAND dollars a year in the name of breast cancer…but the ones who struggle to raise even $500. Those men and women who have never been touched by breast cancer, to those who finished their radiation treatments the day before walking 39 miles in less than 48 hours. I’ve met people who reduce me to tears every time they express their gratefulness at simply breathing, seeing a sunset, holding a loved one’s hand.
Most importantly, I’ve broken life down to the smallest pieces and found blessings in all of them. It’s so easy to be carried away in our rut-filled lives and be grumpy, negative, and pessimistic. But stop. You’ve forgotten joy. You’ve forgotten your passions. You’ve forgotten yourself. Even I (she says condescendingly - :-P) get grouchy and snappish. But that’s invariably when I’ll get a call or an email from someone – whether it’s through work or my personal life – that reconnects me with humility. Something that puts life in perspective all over again. And I’m so, so grateful. I also thank the stars that I have people like y’all in my lives. People that understand my crazy life…and do a really good job of being patient with me – at least that’s how it appears to me. . You’ve all inspired and supported me in ways you might not be aware. As always, you’re continuing to help me become the best woman I can be in this lifetime. Thank you. I couldn’t say it enough
In case you have the time to peruse, I do have some pictures y’all can check out of some of Hannah’s Happenings over the last few months. This city-wannabe chick. :-p
General stuff – http://f2.pg.photos.yahoo.com/nannerli74.
Event-related stuff - http://f2.pg.photos.yahoo.com/hannahashmore.
So. Anyone know someone who can teach me how to use a jack-hammer? That’s the next skill I want to learn.
Much love,
Your fave blue-collar wannabe chick
Hannah
"My advice to you is not to inquire why or whither, but just to enjoy your ice cream while it's on your plate." - Thornton Wilder
Thursday, August 28, 2003
'Twas the night the stars came out in Brooklyn....
Hello all!
Yes, there was a night that we could clearly see the stars in good ol’ Brooklyn….it just happened to coincide with a blackout across several states. It was actually pretty wild – everyone in my building grabbed whatever was in the fridge that happened to have an alcoholic content and brought it up to our roof to drink en masse before everything got warm. Well, we were already pretty toasty. I had to walk back from Chelsea – not TOO bad – but there were people who’d walked much farther…however, NO ONE had gotten stuck in the subway. Thank GAWD! I can’t imagine much worse than being stuck in an airless tunnel with 1,000,000 rats and thousands of pounds of garbage. Ack. Anywhooooo…we had fun. We star-gazed. We grilled. We chatted, bonded, and got to know each other. We watched the sun set over a mostly-dark Manhattan. Interestingly enough, the brightest “light” shining was the Verizon sign at the top of one of their buildings. Coincidence? Conspiracy? Hmmm….
We were up late…or is that early? Unfortunately, I had to miss my uncle’s funeral the next day as no flights were flying out. Cancelled, cancelled, cancelled.
So, we’re three weeks out from our event. Every time I think about it, my stomach starts to churn as I run down my mental check-list of all that needs to be accomplished in the next handful of days. I’m excited, I must say. We’ve worked so hard for so long that it’s nice to know that it’ll all come to fruition soon. And the thought of meeting some of the people who have had such an impact on my life and outlook in-person is truly exciting…thrilling! The momentum builds…
That said, I wanted to get out this email to say hi, I’m ok, all is well, but I might be diving into a den of obscurity. I will poke my head out occasionally and remind myself that a world does exist outside of the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer…but, sheesh, it’s why I’m here. ;-) So, please don’t take it personally if I’m slow to respond to emails or calls. Or if I don’t respond at all. My mind is more scattered than ever – and, yes, I do know that’s saying a lot, so HUSH. I’ll surface soon!!!
All y’all in the NYC area…if you’re around town the weekend of September 20-21, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND coming down to the South Street Seaport around 4:00pm on Sunday the 21st. That’s when our Closing Ceremonies will be taking place. I know you think it’s a biased opinion, and perhaps it is, but they’re so moving. Truly life-changing for some, too. I’ve seen them – what feels like – a bajillion times, yet every time, I choke up and cry. Beyond inspirational. I love seeing what all our efforts – staff, crew, walkers, volunteers, and community altogether – accomplish in the “real” world. Reminds me that the world is so much bigger than me…and my piddly worries, like I feel like I’ve gained 500 lbs, or why hasn’t that dumb boy that I like called, or that the laundry shrunk my fave white tee. So much more than me. And I want to be a part of it. I AM a part of it.
As the saying goes, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” (Thanks Ghandi!) I certainly hope that y’all are out there following your hearts, personally and professionally. It’s never too late to be happy and we really don’t know how long we’ll be here after all. So enjoy it NOW. Tell someone you love them even if you think they’re not “ready” to hear it. Read that book you’ve been meaning to. Eat that canoli even if it does exceed your “calorie allotment.” Miss me tons! Oh, oops. You do that already. :-p
Ok. Enough preaching. I love y’all! Be good. Oh, and check out this site - http://photos.yahoo.com/nannerli74 - and come back often. I got a new toy (digital camera!) and I’m playing with it often. The dogs are the most frequent subjects at the moment even though Kali’s terrified of the flash and hides under the bed. Our event will certainly be posted as soon as I get a chance at the end of September.
Someone shut me up…
Hugs,
Hannah
Yes, there was a night that we could clearly see the stars in good ol’ Brooklyn….it just happened to coincide with a blackout across several states. It was actually pretty wild – everyone in my building grabbed whatever was in the fridge that happened to have an alcoholic content and brought it up to our roof to drink en masse before everything got warm. Well, we were already pretty toasty. I had to walk back from Chelsea – not TOO bad – but there were people who’d walked much farther…however, NO ONE had gotten stuck in the subway. Thank GAWD! I can’t imagine much worse than being stuck in an airless tunnel with 1,000,000 rats and thousands of pounds of garbage. Ack. Anywhooooo…we had fun. We star-gazed. We grilled. We chatted, bonded, and got to know each other. We watched the sun set over a mostly-dark Manhattan. Interestingly enough, the brightest “light” shining was the Verizon sign at the top of one of their buildings. Coincidence? Conspiracy? Hmmm….
We were up late…or is that early? Unfortunately, I had to miss my uncle’s funeral the next day as no flights were flying out. Cancelled, cancelled, cancelled.
So, we’re three weeks out from our event. Every time I think about it, my stomach starts to churn as I run down my mental check-list of all that needs to be accomplished in the next handful of days. I’m excited, I must say. We’ve worked so hard for so long that it’s nice to know that it’ll all come to fruition soon. And the thought of meeting some of the people who have had such an impact on my life and outlook in-person is truly exciting…thrilling! The momentum builds…
That said, I wanted to get out this email to say hi, I’m ok, all is well, but I might be diving into a den of obscurity. I will poke my head out occasionally and remind myself that a world does exist outside of the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer…but, sheesh, it’s why I’m here. ;-) So, please don’t take it personally if I’m slow to respond to emails or calls. Or if I don’t respond at all. My mind is more scattered than ever – and, yes, I do know that’s saying a lot, so HUSH. I’ll surface soon!!!
All y’all in the NYC area…if you’re around town the weekend of September 20-21, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND coming down to the South Street Seaport around 4:00pm on Sunday the 21st. That’s when our Closing Ceremonies will be taking place. I know you think it’s a biased opinion, and perhaps it is, but they’re so moving. Truly life-changing for some, too. I’ve seen them – what feels like – a bajillion times, yet every time, I choke up and cry. Beyond inspirational. I love seeing what all our efforts – staff, crew, walkers, volunteers, and community altogether – accomplish in the “real” world. Reminds me that the world is so much bigger than me…and my piddly worries, like I feel like I’ve gained 500 lbs, or why hasn’t that dumb boy that I like called, or that the laundry shrunk my fave white tee. So much more than me. And I want to be a part of it. I AM a part of it.
As the saying goes, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” (Thanks Ghandi!) I certainly hope that y’all are out there following your hearts, personally and professionally. It’s never too late to be happy and we really don’t know how long we’ll be here after all. So enjoy it NOW. Tell someone you love them even if you think they’re not “ready” to hear it. Read that book you’ve been meaning to. Eat that canoli even if it does exceed your “calorie allotment.” Miss me tons! Oh, oops. You do that already. :-p
Ok. Enough preaching. I love y’all! Be good. Oh, and check out this site - http://photos.yahoo.com/nannerli74 - and come back often. I got a new toy (digital camera!) and I’m playing with it often. The dogs are the most frequent subjects at the moment even though Kali’s terrified of the flash and hides under the bed. Our event will certainly be posted as soon as I get a chance at the end of September.
Someone shut me up…
Hugs,
Hannah
Wednesday, April 09, 2003
Hannah's MIS(?)adventures in NYC
It took 3 months, but it happened. I finally saw a rat in the NYC subway. Not that I *wanted* it to happen…but I just hadn’t seen them. I now feel like a “real” New Yorker.
Regardless, it’s been a wild 3-and-a-little-bit months. Lots of firsts and I’ve even learned a lot…wanna know some of ‘em?
· I locked myself out of my apartment. And my roommate works in PA. And I don’t know my superintendent’s last name OR where he lives.
· I got stuck in a – packed! – elevator on Wall Street.
· I’ve seen “our” name in lights – well, it was really a welcome to the Avon Walkers at a NJ car dealership…but it certainly was an experience.
· A homeless man told me I was beautiful – and DIDN’T ASK ME FOR ANYTHING (a rarity, I’m told)
· I saw a very hip, well-dressed young woman steal another woman’s wallet from an ATM…thieves don’t always come in stereotypical packages!
· I had to learn the subway system the HARD way one night when my beloved L train was closed “due to an incident.”
· Legwarmers are back in – I find this scary, actually.
· My front door was recently graffiti-ed…it now says “Juicy” – cool, huh?
· My ‘hood is FABULOUS for people-watching. I swear one night some guy was wearing a Bichon Frise on his head. Ok, ok, ok, it was a large fluffy white scarf, but STILL.
· I’ve learned that EVERY time I plan to move, it’ll snow. Seriously! All 3 times I’ve moved in the last 3 months, it’s snowed…once, we even got 2 feet. So, plan on inclement weather if I ever have to move again. Grrr!
So, how do I know that I’m settling in? I can sleep through the JMZ train going over the Williamsburg Bridge a block and half from my house. I’m getting a dogwalker instead of being one. I know my way ‘round a lot of the Tri-State area better than some of the natives – I wish the Long Island Rail Road gave out frequent “flyer” miles! The only thing I can’t accommodate is the d@#$*& car alarms that go off several times a night. It’s justifiable homicide!
And, yes, even the dogs are much more “city dog” than I ever would have imagined. I’m even more of a New York Gal at heart than I would have believed. I love the energy of the city. I love the way the city and its bridges look at night. I love my job. I love my co-workers. I love the people I’m meeting and the experiences they share with me. I even love the witchy Russian girl who runs the register at the corner bagel store – she’s so “New York.” It’s all part of the experience, right?
I’ve even decided to tackle the fundraising hurdle again. The American Cancer Society has a Dogswalk every year, so guess who’s participating. Me! And my stinky pooches. We’d love your support if you’d be so inclined - http://www.dogswalk.com/site/TR?pg=personal&fr_id=1000&px=1017106. If you’ve already donated THANK YOU! We highly, highly appreciate it. Yes, I know…I’m a fundraising geek. I really do like it! Guess that makes me perfect for my job, huh?
I’m sorry I don’t get to talk to more of you more often. Life is crazy up here…between work, working weekends, weddings, traveling to other events, and SLEEP, there’s precious little time. Can’t wait for summer when things will slow down a little! I think of you often and miss you more. I definitely miss Girl’s Nights and impromptu Barley’s pizza trips. Let me know if you’re ever out this way…
But it did take me 3 months to see my first rat in NYC…and little over 3 months to see my first mouse!
Much love,
Hannah
Regardless, it’s been a wild 3-and-a-little-bit months. Lots of firsts and I’ve even learned a lot…wanna know some of ‘em?
· I locked myself out of my apartment. And my roommate works in PA. And I don’t know my superintendent’s last name OR where he lives.
· I got stuck in a – packed! – elevator on Wall Street.
· I’ve seen “our” name in lights – well, it was really a welcome to the Avon Walkers at a NJ car dealership…but it certainly was an experience.
· A homeless man told me I was beautiful – and DIDN’T ASK ME FOR ANYTHING (a rarity, I’m told)
· I saw a very hip, well-dressed young woman steal another woman’s wallet from an ATM…thieves don’t always come in stereotypical packages!
· I had to learn the subway system the HARD way one night when my beloved L train was closed “due to an incident.”
· Legwarmers are back in – I find this scary, actually.
· My front door was recently graffiti-ed…it now says “Juicy” – cool, huh?
· My ‘hood is FABULOUS for people-watching. I swear one night some guy was wearing a Bichon Frise on his head. Ok, ok, ok, it was a large fluffy white scarf, but STILL.
· I’ve learned that EVERY time I plan to move, it’ll snow. Seriously! All 3 times I’ve moved in the last 3 months, it’s snowed…once, we even got 2 feet. So, plan on inclement weather if I ever have to move again. Grrr!
So, how do I know that I’m settling in? I can sleep through the JMZ train going over the Williamsburg Bridge a block and half from my house. I’m getting a dogwalker instead of being one. I know my way ‘round a lot of the Tri-State area better than some of the natives – I wish the Long Island Rail Road gave out frequent “flyer” miles! The only thing I can’t accommodate is the d@#$*& car alarms that go off several times a night. It’s justifiable homicide!
And, yes, even the dogs are much more “city dog” than I ever would have imagined. I’m even more of a New York Gal at heart than I would have believed. I love the energy of the city. I love the way the city and its bridges look at night. I love my job. I love my co-workers. I love the people I’m meeting and the experiences they share with me. I even love the witchy Russian girl who runs the register at the corner bagel store – she’s so “New York.” It’s all part of the experience, right?
I’ve even decided to tackle the fundraising hurdle again. The American Cancer Society has a Dogswalk every year, so guess who’s participating. Me! And my stinky pooches. We’d love your support if you’d be so inclined - http://www.dogswalk.com/site/TR?pg=personal&fr_id=1000&px=1017106. If you’ve already donated THANK YOU! We highly, highly appreciate it. Yes, I know…I’m a fundraising geek. I really do like it! Guess that makes me perfect for my job, huh?
I’m sorry I don’t get to talk to more of you more often. Life is crazy up here…between work, working weekends, weddings, traveling to other events, and SLEEP, there’s precious little time. Can’t wait for summer when things will slow down a little! I think of you often and miss you more. I definitely miss Girl’s Nights and impromptu Barley’s pizza trips. Let me know if you’re ever out this way…
But it did take me 3 months to see my first rat in NYC…and little over 3 months to see my first mouse!
Much love,
Hannah
Monday, January 13, 2003
All tucked in...safe and sound...and mostly warm!
Well, I'm here. It's been just over a week and I *still* don't think I've thawed out. However, minus the snowy, way-too-wintery weather the payoffs are HUGE. I guess I can tolerate snow and frigid, breath-taking weather in order to have access to my newfound professional dream and one of the biggest, baddest, rarin'-to-go cities in the world.
As some of you know, the trip up here was fairly horrendous. Rain, sleet, snow, general yuckiness. A sleepless night in a hotel in Richmond - yes, I *know* their house burned down, but that's no reason your kids have to run up and down the hallway at 2am - ! - and stand outside my window trying to get my dogs to bark!!! Second day of driving...even nastier. And just YOU try to find a hotel in Newark that'll take you and your two dogs under their wing. What a challenge. If it hadn't been for Carol, my VP Guardian Angel, passing me on to our new travel agency where Guardian Angel #2 had me a room in minutes at the Hilton, I'd have been a very sad/angry/frustrated Hannah sleeping in her car by the side of the road. Instead, we snuggled up on the king-sized bed and slept like babies....after trying out the elevator for the first time. Yep, another first for Kali & Mav - elevator riding and hotel-staying. All said and done, they were FABULOUS!
So, a couple of days to decompress...off went the City Chick on the train, bright and early for a couple - long - days of training. Tons of information, lots to do, eager beavers ready to start (there are actually THREE of us hired now, so it's not just me!)...and then we learned something about New York City. Who knew that it can take 4-6 weeks to get a phone line installed? Long story short, our first week of work was spent sans phone lines OR computers! It's been a looooooooong time since I've done nothing but cold-call...and on a borrowed phone line (from the people we're sharing an office with) no less!
At the end of the day, this is definitely where I'm meant to be. I feel comfortable in the city and the commute isn't so bad. The dogs are doing AMAZINGLY well - thanks to my friends Lisa and Mike for not only being excellent hosts, but thanks to their profession that lets them come home during the day to let all the stinkers out (they have a pooch, too, so Mav's in dog-heaven w/a live-in playmate!). This is truly the best transition to date. Not only that, but professionally I've found the precise spot I'm meant to be at this precise time in my life. I'm SO thankful for the last year...and that I was given the opportunity to take the time to figure out where my foot would land in the next step I took forward. Thanks to all those out there who have supported, hand-held, offered shoulders and hugs, and especially to my parents....I know you're supposed to worry, but this cat landed on her feet - mostly - again!
So, off I go to explore this amazing city, dive into my new job, establish myself in a community, and continue becoming the woman I'm meant to be. I hope y'all will continue join me on this roller coaster....
much love and many kisses,
hannah
PS Don't forget about that thing called keeping in touch, 'k???
"You get in life what you have the courage to ask for."
- Oprah Winfrey
As some of you know, the trip up here was fairly horrendous. Rain, sleet, snow, general yuckiness. A sleepless night in a hotel in Richmond - yes, I *know* their house burned down, but that's no reason your kids have to run up and down the hallway at 2am - ! - and stand outside my window trying to get my dogs to bark!!! Second day of driving...even nastier. And just YOU try to find a hotel in Newark that'll take you and your two dogs under their wing. What a challenge. If it hadn't been for Carol, my VP Guardian Angel, passing me on to our new travel agency where Guardian Angel #2 had me a room in minutes at the Hilton, I'd have been a very sad/angry/frustrated Hannah sleeping in her car by the side of the road. Instead, we snuggled up on the king-sized bed and slept like babies....after trying out the elevator for the first time. Yep, another first for Kali & Mav - elevator riding and hotel-staying. All said and done, they were FABULOUS!
So, a couple of days to decompress...off went the City Chick on the train, bright and early for a couple - long - days of training. Tons of information, lots to do, eager beavers ready to start (there are actually THREE of us hired now, so it's not just me!)...and then we learned something about New York City. Who knew that it can take 4-6 weeks to get a phone line installed? Long story short, our first week of work was spent sans phone lines OR computers! It's been a looooooooong time since I've done nothing but cold-call...and on a borrowed phone line (from the people we're sharing an office with) no less!
At the end of the day, this is definitely where I'm meant to be. I feel comfortable in the city and the commute isn't so bad. The dogs are doing AMAZINGLY well - thanks to my friends Lisa and Mike for not only being excellent hosts, but thanks to their profession that lets them come home during the day to let all the stinkers out (they have a pooch, too, so Mav's in dog-heaven w/a live-in playmate!). This is truly the best transition to date. Not only that, but professionally I've found the precise spot I'm meant to be at this precise time in my life. I'm SO thankful for the last year...and that I was given the opportunity to take the time to figure out where my foot would land in the next step I took forward. Thanks to all those out there who have supported, hand-held, offered shoulders and hugs, and especially to my parents....I know you're supposed to worry, but this cat landed on her feet - mostly - again!
So, off I go to explore this amazing city, dive into my new job, establish myself in a community, and continue becoming the woman I'm meant to be. I hope y'all will continue join me on this roller coaster....
much love and many kisses,
hannah
PS Don't forget about that thing called keeping in touch, 'k???
"You get in life what you have the courage to ask for."
- Oprah Winfrey
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