lucky seven months in....

One would think that since I am currently among the ranks of the unemployed, I would be really good at blogging.  Alas, that is not the case as I  have realized that I'm a good month overdue for my "six months in" update.  I know all you adoring fans were on the edge of your seats waiting for it...ha ha.

So the anticipation in over. Here we go....

• successfully complete a 5k - my friend did not kill me. I completed my first 5k on 1 December in the "speedy" time of 37 minutes. not great, but I finished. next up: a 10k in April.
• continue to be physically active - when one does not have gainful employment (what is this thing called "work" y'all speak of?), one must find things to do. I decided to spend more time at the gym/doing yoga/running. it must be working...I dropped a jeans size.
  
• explore more in the culinary world - still cooking...or as I like to say "gourmet on a budget". really, that means a lot of inventive ways to make pasta and rice.
• continue the "no soda" quest - since losing my job on 4 January, I have become reacquainted with my old friend diet mountain dew. we have both enjoyed this reunion.
• increase social media knowledge/promote rjl creative -  I am still working on this...but did come up with a new name to better include the social media component: xpresso media - design & consulting.
  
• continue to engage in artistic endeavors - meh. I retitled my end tables, and that's about it. well, besides creating the xpresso media logo.
• get my bartending license - I should do this. hell, maybe it'll help me get a job.
• become involved in causes I believe in (namely Pancreatic cancer and APBT/AmStaff groups) -  if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem. I'm still part of the problem.
• visit at least two of the remaining 11 states I haven't yet - make that 10 states...Louisiana baby!!! NYE in NOLA was freakin' awesome!
• organize my finances - hmmm, this would require a job. anyone wanna hire me? and I still cannont bring myself to eat ramen.
• figure out this whole "relationship" thing - or not. I should probably figure out employment first. but in the meantime, I'll just go with the flow...
• cherish the time with friends & family - life is short (something that came to realization about a year ago). make time for those you care about.  remember, it's not what you do it's who you're with.
• be thankful/grateful for the things I have, rather than lamenting about what I don't have -time to practice an "attitude of gratitude".  I've gotten better at this, not perfect, but better. baby steps.

words to live by...

three months in...

It's hard to believe that three months of "my" year have already gone by.  and here's the progress (or lack thereof)....

• successfully complete a 5k - I will do this...and I officially start training today. hopefully my friend won't kill me - not because of the workout itself, because I'll probably complain. a lot.
• continue to be physically active - I was doing so well with this, until I decided to fracture my foot on 11 September.  kinda puts a damper on that whole running, boot camp, volleyball thing.  although I've been vigilant about doing my weights in the morning and I've become re-acquainted with my physical therapist, and will be cleared for higher-impact stuff (i.e. running) on tuesday.
  
• explore more in the culinary world - having to stay off my foot makes it difficult to cook. which sucks. hopefully I'll improve on this in a few weeks.
• continue the "no soda" quest - I've done good!  almost five months, with only a couple slips here and there. and Rockstar energy drink is not a soda - it has vitamins.
• increase social media knowledge/promote rjl creative -  I decided to combine these two this year.  I may even slightly change the direction (and potentially the name) of rjl creative to more of an SoLoMo focus, while keeping the design aspect secondary.  I love design, but the future is SoLoMo - and sadly, pretty isn't as important in that arena (but dammit, my stuff will be pretty AND functional!)
  
• continue to engage in artistic endeavors - meh. I've done a couple freelance logos and that's about it. however, I do have some ideas for that "east side special" coffee table.
• get my bartending license - I just always wanted to do this, for no particular reason...but no, I don't have it yet.
• become involved in causes I believe in (namely Pancreatic cancer and APBT/AmStaff groups) -  if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem. right now I'm part of the problem.
• visit at least two of the remaining 11 states I haven't yet - in a nutshell, I'm either going west or south. but I did see a Bears game at Solider Field. no, not a new state...but I'd never been there before (and da Bears won too)
• organize my finances - this IS hard (and I'm sure the doctor and PT bills will help immensely). I should resort to gourmet ramen noodle cooking, if I could bring myself to eat ramen.
• figure out this whole "relationship" thing - there's this guy who's after you like a fat kid on cake and you want to smack him upside the head. ugh. I'm attempting online dating again - may the experience be better the second time. but there are a few possibilities in the non-cyber realm...perhaps one will work out. or not.
• cherish the time with friends & family - life is short (something that came to realization about a year ago). make time for those you care about.  remember, it's not what you do it's who you're with.
• be thankful/grateful for the things I have, rather than lamenting about what I don't have -time to practice an "attitude of gratitude".  I've gotten better at this, not perfect, but better. baby steps.

2012 birthday wishes

oh, 2012...how you move so quickly. 2011 tested me quite a bit - and although I survived, I probably could have handled some situations better. 

ergo, most of these year's wishes focus on me and what I can do to better myself, my relationships and perhaps society as a whole (if only for a few hours).

2012 birthday wishes (in no particular order):

• successfully complete a 5k - about seven years ago, I actually embarked training for a marathon (stop laughing) but I changed careers and stopped. despite my knees, I could do this.
• continue to be physically active - ideally, I'd like to do something "active" (read: swimming, hitting the gym, hashing, yoga/pilates) five times/week. if that three-week boot camp in September doesn't kill me first...
  
• explore more in the culinary world - ok, I am a good cook (something my dad apparently "knew"?) and I finally enjoy it. but I'd like to learn how to cook Thai food and take some classes.  I love chicken & veggies, but a girl needs variety.
• continue the "no soda" quest - I've been soda-free since 4 June 2012 (thankfully there's La Croix and tonic water). and honestly, I haven't even craved one since.
• increase social media knowledge/promote rjl creative -  I decided to combine these two this year.  I may even slightly change the direction (and potentially the name) of rjl creative to more of an SoLoMo focus, while keeping the design aspect secondary.  I love design, but the future is SoLoMo - and sadly, pretty isn't as important in that arena (but dammit, my stuff will be pretty AND functional!)
  
• continue to engage in artistic endeavors - this might be a little easier as the focus of my paying job is evolving (more online, less design). I would like to do picture journaling more frequently (read: more than once every two years) and perhaps will revisit "The Artist's Way".
• get my bartending license - I just always wanted to do this, for no particular reason.
• become involved in causes I believe in (namely Pancreatic cancer and APBT/AmStaff groups) - since I was so stellar with this last year (sans the PanCan walk),  it's really something I need to make time for this year. if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem
• visit at least two of the remaining 11 states I haven't yet - in a nutshell, I'm either going west or south. 
• organize my finances - this will be hard. I like spending and not saving, unless I'm saving for something (see above bullet).
• figure out this whole "relationship" thing - thing about these things...they are work. plus, when there are possibilities - including one from complete left field that throws a wrench in it all - it makes it that much more difficult/interesting/<insert word here>...
• cherish the time with friends & family - life is short (something that came to realization about a year ago). make time for those you care about.  remember, it's not what you do it's who you're with.
• be thankful/grateful for the things I have, rather than lamenting about what I don't have - this will likely be the hardest. human nature is to want what we don't or can't have (myself included) and all that does is sabotage us.  time to practice an "attitude of gratitude".

go on living, always keep on breathin'

from the mouth of memory, you give back yourself

~ the gufs

2011 birthday wishes (in review)

In a few short days, my (undisclosed age here) "year" will come to an end. It's been an interesting year to say the least, and despite that, I think I actually achieved some things on this list.  Yes, you should be as shocked as I am...

2011 Birthday Wishes (original):

• procure a MacBook (fail) - I could get a red Dell.  or a pink one. or design my own. yes, I think I've given up on this. 
• amp up physical activity (success) - the bike still needs a tune-up. however, I have been walking/jogging with the Badgerland Striders and I did join a gym...with a pool!  that'll be useful for the possible return to "death by tri".  otherwise, I'll just try to emulate Dana Vollmer (USA, WR holder in the 100m fly)
• try to eat better (even) - I'm blaming beer, and those damn cheese balls.
• attempt to be culinary (success) - people have actually asked me for recipes.  I don't know how the hell that happened.
• embrace my curls (even) - I straightened it today as I renewed my DL (it should have been a curly day).  I've gotten WAY better, yet not a full embrace yet.
• beat my brother in "Words with Friends" (success) - 13 August bitches!  I don't think my bro plays this anymore but I still won a game, dammit!
• travel somewhere besides DC & Chicago (success) - I'm calling this a success loosely.  I did go to St. Louis and Ohio...not exotic but elsewhere none the less.
• see Wisco Gov. Scott Walker get recalled (fail) - I voted to get the douche out of office! but damn that "instilling the fear of God in people" campaign tactic.
• increase social media knowledge (even) - a few weeks ago, this would have been a success, then I went to a SoLoMo seminar, and I don't know jack. sadly, I do know more than the average person despite not knowing jack
• engage in artistic endeavors (success) - I've painted wine bottles, taken artsy photos (soon coming to a canvas near you)...looking to do more.
• continue to promote rjl creative (even) -  still promoting and the HAHS annual fundraiser logo was pretty cool. but beyond that not much.
• become involved with APBT & AmStaff dog rescue/advocacy (fail) -  Caye is a great ambassdog and speaks for the breed beautifully. still. must.go.to.an.event.
• that my mom wins her battle with pancreatic cancer (success) - well, I can't really do a success/fail on this in the truest form, but I'll call it success. she hasn't beaten it yet, but the tumor has shrunk by 50% and chemo is down to every other week. go Mom!

Real exciting, I know.  Stay tuned, the 2012 "wishes" will be up in a few days....

nine months (no...not that!)

It's that time again...time for the quarterly re-visit of my 2011 Birthday Wishes (and I've even hit the date spot on!).  Besides, I know y'all are anxiously awaiting the update (ha ha...yeah right...)

2011 Birthday Wishes (original):

• procure a MacBook - maybe I should just give up on this one and buy a new Dell (even though I really want a MacBook) - the Dell is cheaper and has the same crap. 
• amp up physical activity - well, I've done a couple yoga classes and have procured a bicycle (now just to get it a tune-up and new tires).  I've done two walk/runs for charity, with a third one on 2 June.plus, I think I'm doing "death by tri" this year. and I may have been talked into doing something crazy in Vegas in December.
• try to eat better - this would be easier without the invention of cheese balls.
• attempt to be culinary - I have more than attempted...I have succeeded! from greek pasta to chicken/broccoli/cheese casserole, I have done it.  and it's been pretty darn tasty! (and surprisingly healthy)
• embrace my curls - hmmm, my hair is currently staging a coup and wants to be straight. that's ok, once the humidity kicks up the curls will be back as they are today.  the biggest dilemma is what color to dye it.
• beat my brother in "Words with Friends" - 13 August bitches!  I don't think my bro plays this anymore - something about caring for a four and two year old - but I still won a game, dammit!
• travel somewhere besides DC & Chicago - I went to St. Louis in March! oh yeah, Madison & Chicago...again.  rumor has it I may be in Ohio in May...
• see Wisco Gov. Scott Walker get recalled - recall primary 8 May, recall election 5 June...let's get the douchebag out of office!
• increase social media knowledge - I continue to read up on trends and increase my employers presence on the interwebs.  go me.
• engage in artistic endeavors - I've painted a couple wine bottles...here's one of them. and I think I might put some of my photos on canvas. and maybe stop taking pics of my pup, but he's so dang cute.
• continue to promote rjl creative -  still promoting.  did get a freelance job for an insurance agency. but even cooler, I've designed the logo/collaterals for the HAHS annual fundraiser.
• become involved with APBT & AmStaff dog rescue/advocacy -  Caye is a great ambassdog and speaks for the breed beautifully. still. must.go.to.an.event.
• that my mom wins her battle with pancreatic cancer - she is responding to chemo well and continues to be in good spirits.  if anyone wonders where I get my strength and resiliency from, it's from mom. and I wouldn't trade that for the world. this is also the third charity walk, but the only one for which I'm accepting donations. (shameless plug, I know.  I don't care either...it's a good cause).

six months in...

I always thought it was cool that my 1/2 birthday fell on Groundhog Day.  This year, Punxsutawney Phil said there would be six more weeks of winter, while Jimmy in Sun Prairie (WI) said it would be an early spring. I'm going with Jimmy because I like his prediction better.  

Since it IS my 1/2 birthday, it's also that time to revisit the good 'ol birthday wishes...and see if any of them actually came true. 

 

2011 Birthday Wishes (original):

• procure a MacBook - yes, I asked for one for Christmas.  no, I did not get one. tax money is going to other crap. ugh. 
• amp up physical activity - a friend and I have talked about going to yoga classes - and we downloaded the schedule...now we just need to actually go.  I'm still considering purchasing a bike (Rob would be so proud). and I've signed up for a couple fun runs for charity already.  perhaps I will be ready for the Dirty Girl Mud Run in August?  
• try to eat better - it's a good theory, if only I could really put it into practice.  the holidays killed me, but I'm hoping to get back on track.
• attempt to be culinary - ha ha ha ha.  I still define cooking as "empty contents of package into bowl, add water and microwave for five minutes". but pinning recipes to pinterest counts right?
• embrace my curls - my hair is still short.  as long as it's in this style, curls will not be embraced.  however, if I grow it out for summer, this can be revisited.
• beat my brother in "Words with Friends" - 13 August bitches!  sad part is I haven't won since...but we haven't really played either.  this is to my advantage, really.
• travel somewhere besides DC & Chicago - Madison once (but it's still in Wisco).  however, I'm going to St. Louis in March...yippee!!!  and maybe NOLA in June.
• see Wisco Gov. Scott Walker get recalled - signatures have been collected - over one million - so I guess that makes me one in a million :).  currently they're being analyzed and then we can oust the douchebag out of office (not that I have an opinion about it...)
• increase social media knowledge - pinterest and instagram ARE social media tools.  seriously, I've continue to read up on trends and increase my employers presence on the interwebs.  go me.
• engage in artistic endeavors - I did not tile my "east side special" coffee table...but I did this instead. plus, I have a few cool ideas for those wine bottles I now have, and the blank wall by the tv, and....
• continue to promote rjl creative -  still promoting.  still getting little jobs here and there.  I'd have more time for this if I wasn't actively looking for another full-time job in the process.
• become involved with APBT & AmStaff dog rescue/advocacy - I know when events are (3rd Annual Bully Bash is 30 March) . must.go.to.an.event.
• that my mom wins her battle with pancreatic cancer - mom is on an aggressive chemo schedule now :(  however, she remains in good spirits and is resilient as ever (amazingly). 

three months....

I know y'all have been on the edge of your seat waiting for the three month update of my 2011 birthday wishes.  But let's face it....even if you haven't you're getting it anyway....

2011 Birthday Wishes (original):

• procure a MacBook - yes, I am asking for one for Christmas.  no, I will not likely get one.  however, these is money from the tax return.... 
• amp up physical activity - well, I found out where some yoga classes are - now I just need to get off my ass and go to them.  I've also gone on two bike rides (9 & 12 miles) despite not being on a bike in over five years.  of course, the timing would have been better if I discovered the biking in the spring instead of the fall.
• try to eat better - baby steps!  I have been eating more salads and soup for lunch (a sneaky way for me to get veggies).  but seriously, I love me some chicken wings.
• attempt to be culinary - now that I'm single again, I've been forced to cook again.  this usually translates as "empty contents of package into bowl, add water and microwave for five minutes".  at least I add veggies.
• embrace my curls - when my hair was long, I was good at doing this.  however, on Wednesday I got six inches hacked off.  the new style is not conducive to curls (read:  I don't like it curly with this style).
• beat my brother in "Words with Friends" - 13 August bitches!  sad part is I haven't won since.
• travel somewhere besides DC & Chicago - rumor has it I might be going to New Orleans in June.  I will go to NOLA dammit!
• see Wisco Gov. Scott Walker get recalled - this process has started in Wisco.  I know, I got my first volunteer phone call yesterday from United Wisconsin.
• increase social media knowledge - I'm still a geek. and since it's part of my job, they'll pay for me to go to seminars on this topic.
• engage in artistic endeavors - I take random pics with my iPhone (I love my iPhone) but that doesn't count.  the winter endeavor is to tile my "east side special" coffee table.
• continue to promote rjl creative -  this will happen...I know it.  when friends ask if you do freelance and refer their friends to you, that helps.  a lot.
• become involved with APBT & AmStaff dog rescue/advocacy - similar to yoga classes - I know where events are I just need to get to one.
• that my mom wins her battle with pancreatic cancer - her last treatment is today!  and she's has limited side effects so this is great...so far so good :)

birthday wishes 2011 - revised

What a difference a week makes...

While I still intend to adhere to the list (which you can view here), but one wish needs to be added to the very top of the list:  

that my mom wins her battle with pancreatic cancer.

On Saturday, the news hit like a ton of bricks - and it wasn't easy to fully absorb.  In fact, the reality hit about 1:30 am Tuesday when I finally cried (and generally, I'm not a crier).  That's when I stopped asking "why my mom?"  and realized this energy needed to go to support my mom in any way possible.  Right now, I think my "support" is coming in the forms of:  strength and encouragement, a sounding board and comic relief (go figure).  But her daughter saying funny, stupid shit will play a role in her recovery.

Thankfully, my mom is resilient and determined (or as I like to say "a strong stubborn German woman" - yes, that is a compliment - and if anyone can beat this it's a strong, stubborn German woman).  She is also receiving some of the best health care in the world at Johns Hopkins, so I know medically she is good hands.  And either my dad, brother or sister-in-law (and sometimes all three) are going with her to the appointments - which undeniably helps.  Plus, she has her faith.  If you are one of those praying types, my mom would greatly appreciate them.  If not - please send good vibes and happy, healing thoughts her way. 

Most importantly, my mom is staying in good spirits (all things considered) and is living her life to the fullest.  I'm believing she's one of the less that 10% that beats the disease, but I've learned rather quickly to savor every moment of life while you can fully enjoy it.  

birthday wishes 2011

soybean wishes & dreams

On Tuesday, I will celebrate my (undisclosed age here) birthday.  And I've learned yet again, it doesn't matter how old you are - your mother will still ask "what do you want for your birthday?"

This year I actually had an answer:  a MacBook.  I think I'm just going to get a check, which undoubtedly will end up going toward something else.

So with that segue, I give you my birthday wishes of 2011:

• procure a MacBook - did I mention I really want one of these?  
• amp up physical activity - hashing, boot camp and volleyball are great...but maybe get back into yoga?
• try to eat better - as an admitted "junk food junkie", sometimes it's a chore to sneak salads in there (because a cheeseburger & tots sounds so much better) even though I actually don't mind salads.
• attempt to be culinary - stop laughing.  I mean it- I've even considered taking a class.  Damn you Food Network and shows like "Chopped"!
• embrace my curls - as a friend put it "learn to love the hair you're in!"  I will say this "embracing" makes getting ready in the morning uber-easy.
• beat my brother in "Words with Friends" - he gets all the good letters, I swear.
• travel somewhere besides DC & Chicago - love those places, but I also want to explore somewhere new (or revisit Toronto).
• see Wisco Gov. Scott Walker get recalled - that would be a happy day!
• increase social media knowledge - I'm a geek.  I like this stuff.
• engage in artistic endeavors - painting, photography, drawing....I need to be creative at home, even if I'm that way at work too (because it's a different type of creative).
• continue to promote rjl creative -  this will happen.  Although I'm toying with a name change to "marketing & design" or naming it after Caye with a % of the proceeds going to dog rescues, which leads to....
• become involved with APBT & AmStaff dog rescue/advocacy - if you've met Cayenne, you understand why.

A few less than last year but this year, most of these "wishes" are actually attainable (2010's playing the bass and world peace, not so much).  The "Words with Friends" one might be kind of tough - does anyone have a portable Scrabble dictionary I can borrow?

2010 wishes...looking back

In a mere three weeks from today, I will not be moving into another age demographic as I embark on another year of life.  However, those who know my birth year know how old I'm turning.  Please don't mention the number, even though I think I've come to terms with it.

About a year ago, I wrote my "birthday wishes 2010" list.  I figure now's as good of time as any to see if any of these wishes did indeed come true.....

• promote/develop my freelance design "business" (using that term loosely) - It may always be a work in progress (as design and the creative process usually is) but my rjl creative site is completed and fully operational.  It even gets updated on occasion. Now I just need to get word out that I am accepting freelance jobs.   So again...if you know anyone that needs a graphics/communications person....(wink, wink, nudge, nudge).
• a MacBook -  I still want one - it will complement my iPhone quite nicely.  Although, I did ask my dad if he knew of anyone selling one.  As much as I want a new one, I doubt I can afford it.
• take more photographs (those of the artsy, landscape variety) - If I stopped playing with my iPhone as of late, I would probably do this more.  Overall, I took less photos than I would have liked.  However, I did take some cool cemetery shots - which I will eventually upload.
• learn to play bass - I have to laugh at this one.  I never touched a bass (instrument or fish variety).  Oh well.
• catch up with friends I haven't seen much in the past year - I think I have either talked to, e-mailed, texted or IMed almost everyone.  Success!
• keep in touch with friends I actually see - Again, thanks go to: Baker's Square, Brady Street, Wrigleyville and Tracks Tavern (oh, and beer) plus Summerfest, Ale House and WH3 for making this possible. I like this social butterfly thing...
• visit friends in faraway places - specifically those in Florida, Arizona and Connecticut - who I keep promising I'll visit - Epic fail.  I made it to Chicago.  That's not too impressive.  Actually, it's kind of pathetic.
• teleportation to see said friends and my nephews more often - Maybe since we no longer have the space shuttle program, we can work on this.  Is teleportation really even possible?
• travel internationally without my mom - Ha ha ha....
• the adapter thingie that allows you to use your iPod in the car - It still works!  The iPod, however, has been tempermental as of late.
• a Wii Fit - I changed this to a LCD-TV...and I got one!  Success!
• lose that last 20 lbs - I still have a strong refusal to step on the scale and look at the number, so perhaps a number goal was a poor choice.  I can tell you my clothes are looser and four people in the past week asked me if I lost weight.  I'll take it as a success...
• manage my finances more effectively - Much better than in recent memory.  My only debt is my car and surgery bill (only $1200 left!!!).  I won't mention the amount owed on the car.
• actually watch some shows I've DVRed -  Not an epic fail, but I'm just not good a this.  I figure I'll live if this isn't successful.  Although I fully intent to watch the DVRed WWC semi after work.
• become more involved with the K-Family again - Dues paid! Now if I could make it to a scheduled event.   However, the CKI segment still continues to think I never existed. It still stings, but it's their loss (pun intended).
• world peace (sorry I had to) - I guess there's always that one wish/goal that would be great if it happens, but likely never, ever will.
• instead of complaining about something, do something to change it - I think I complain less.  This might be because I attempt to do something before it gets that far.
• give up diet Dew - I was good for a while.  I think I just drink more Dew in the summer.  However, it's only one a day and no where near the 12-pack/day habit.  Baby steps, right?

Overall, I feel I was successful.  I stumbled a bit at times, but that's part of life.  

As this year draws to a close, I'm excited to see what next year will bring...and what I'll wish for in 2011 (to be revealed in a couple weeks).

creative geek sheek

I often say "I revel in my creative geekiness".  Over the past few weeks, this couldn't be further from the truth.

It started with a phone call from my dear friend Dan - from the ICU at Froedtert.  Apparently, a pulmonary embolism will land you in ICU.  Yes, it freaked me out.   However, he asked me to essentially run Southeastern Wisconsin Arts Guild (SWAG) for the week he was in ICU.  And in the same (faint) breath, he promoted me to SWAG Vice President.  (note:  I personally never thought I'd be a vice president of anything).  In that one week, I learned quite a bit more about social media and running this little arts & culture information we've got going.  

The good news:  I was able to take what I have learned and apply it to MJ Care's social media sites, which I created and currently maintain.  Yes, I am becoming a little guru in this area.  And no, I'm not going to bombard you with the links.  The better news:  Dan is recovering at home and slowly getting back to work. 

I also created professional  Twitter account:  @rjl_creative.  I swear, I am not a tweet-aholic.  Why a new account, you ask?  The professional account shows potential freelance employers will see I keep abreast on issues and trends in the marketing/communications industry.  My original @beckerbean account follows many a political & social sites (read: Democratic Party & Hash House Harriers).  While I don't care if my friends know my views on politics or that I hash (because chances are, they already do), any professional contacts or fellow marketing communications folks don't need to know. Additionally, they don't need to know my random brain spew.  On the flip side, friends who don't give a crap about social media, design, marketing, etc. don't have to read about it (although I think you should anyway, even if it's just to humor me).  But really, it was to separate the professional and the personal.  

I also updated my resume to add the SWAG position and to match my website (news on that in a teeny bit).  However, I learned I really shouldn't do that at work.  Keith (my wonderful boss) saw me working on it Friday and this morning, he asked me point blank if I was looking for another job.  I had to reassure him that I was just adding the part-time SWAG position.  Apparently, he doesn't want to lose me as an employee - and I really didn't mean to freak the guy out.  Once he calmed down, he did say the design itself was "striking".  I will say, however, it is nice to be needed and appreciated. 

But the biggest news is that my rjlcreative.com site is complete!!!  I will admit that this will always be a work in progress, but all the links are up (and functioning) and it includes all the facets of what I do.  I still need to brush up on HTML/CSS, but I think I did pretty well with my trial-by-fire skills.  Now I just need to get out there and get some freelance jobs.

So if you don't hear from me for a while, I'm likely immersed in a graphic design or a social media site - or perhaps both.  But definitely reveling in my creative geekiness.

nine months in....

Well, give or take a few days.  In nine months, I could have given birth.  But I guess trying to reach your goals is somewhat like giving birth - a long, painful process but worth it in the end.

So, with that being said here's the long awaited update...yeah right. (if you feel so inclined, you can compare it to the six-month check-up):

• promote/develop my freelance design "business" (using that term loosely) - I am convinced this will always be a work in progress.  The  rjl creative now has writing samples but still needs photos.  And a web graphics section. But I did get a freelance job...AND a part-time Director of Communications gig with Southeastern Wisconsin Arts Guild.  It's a start, but looking for more.  So if you know anyone that needs a graphics/communications person....(yes, my shameless plug).
• a MacBook -  If anyone would like to purchase one for me, it would be much appreciated. However, I think I should pay off my vein surgery bill first.  Donations accepted.
• take more photographs (those of the artsy, landscape variety) - I took photos of my dog.  He's cute.  Yet, Cayenne would not be considered a landscape.  Rumor has it spring is coming soon so this could change. 
• learn to play bass - I'm seriously beginning to question why I put this down as a goal.  I may have forgotten what a bass looks like.
• catch up with friends I haven't seen much in the past year -Yeah!  I'm doing this...thanks to to modern miracles of technology...plus the wonders of  Mexican food, Miller Park and alcohol.
• keep in touch with friends I actually see - I would like to thank Baker's Square, Brady Street, Wrigleyville and Tracks Tavern (oh, and beer) for making this possible.  I'll even see the hashers on 21 May....it might be warm enough to be hashing by then.
• visit friends in faraway places - specifically those in Florida, Arizona and Connecticut - who I keep promising I'll visit - Chicago is not considered a far away place, but I love it anyway.  Arizona bottomed out as the plane tix were too pricey for my liking.  I've heard nothing about Philly, and haven't even thought about Florida or Connecticut.  However, I might be going to North Carolina in September. 
• teleportation to see said friends and my nephews more often - Can anyone help me with this?  Please? 
• travel internationally without my mom - Aaah. 
• the adapter thingie that allows you to use your iPod in the car - It still works!  I particularly like listening to Ramstein's "Du Hast" as I drive through the ghetto.
• a Wii Fit - I changed this to a LCD-TV...and I got one!  Woo-hoo!  
• lose that last 20 lbs - Scale is an evil five-letter word and I will never like what it says.  Period.  However, I started boot camp ten weeks ago and recently realized I now have some semblance of ab muscles.  And I still wear a medium in some clothes.  
• manage my finances more effectively - If if wasn't for that damn $2700 bill that stupid insurance won't cover (because it's not deemed medically necessary... I call bs), I'd be doing better.  But still not bad.
• actually watch some shows I've DVRed -  I'm still really bad at this.  However, I watched two DVRed shows last night.
• become more involved with the K-Family again - I just have to pay my dues...but I got an e-mail welcoming me back!  Hoping to make it to a service project in the near future.  However, the CKI segment still continues to think I never existed.
• world peace (sorry I had to) - The death of Bin Laden won't bring world peace, but it eventually make the world a bit safer.  To manipulate a religion to spread a propaganda of hate is just wrong.
• instead of complaining about something, do something to change it - Ok, I still complain...but then I work on changing it. Yes, this is the same as six months ago.
• give up diet Dew - I seriously have not had any deit Dew.  But, I'm known to drink a diet Coke on occasion (or a rum & coke).  And sometimes coffee.  However as a former twelve-pack a day dewaholic, I'm still impressed. 

 

And happy cinco de mayo!

bad habit...

No, this is not in reference to the song by The Offspring...although it ranks as my favorite song by them.

I've had this habit about as long as I remember, minus the three years I had braces.  The habit?  Biting my nails. 

My nails were gorgeous from eight through tenth grade, as the bits of nail would get stuck between the wires.  Yes, I know that sounds disgusting.  One would have thought that after three years of not doing it, I would have kicked the habit.  Nope.

The only other time I haven't bitten my nails was my phase of acrylic nails, which lasted from my wedding to about six months later.  When the nails hindered me from doing basic home improvement tasks, I stopped.  Sadly, I did try to bite the acrylics.  I never succeeded.  And once I stopped getting my nails done - you guessed  it - I was back to my old ways.

But why?  Nail biting in itself is defined as an impulse control disorder (falling into the OCD category).  If there is a trigger for nail biting, it is usually stress or anxiety.  In my case, I think it's two-fold:  a habit because I feel I constantly have to be doing something with my hands and general anxiety.   It makes sense.  I'm told I  run on two speeds - stop and go. If I'm not doing something somewhat active (physically or mentally), I will fall asleep.   As for anxiety...well, if you read the end of my previous blog, no explanation is really needed. 

This gave me an idea.  I've pretty much kicked the caffeine habit (although I do have the occasional frappucino or diet cherry Dr. Pepper/vodka drink).  I've started to make the effort to lose that final 20 lbs (yay for boot camp!)  So, what's one more thing, really?

Yup, I've decided to attempt to stop biting my nails.  I bought the bitter nail polish deterrent-type stuff and everything.  Plus, it's now been four whole days since I've bitten them.

However, I have discovered that I can now tap my nails on tables, walls, etc. and make noise.  This might just lead to a new habit....

We shall see.

my (perceived) absence

Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona duit!

Or in plain English:  Happy St. Patrick's Day!

No, celebrating with a Guinness or two (as green beer is an abomination) is not the reason I've been a slacker (or at least that's my perception) in keeping up in the bloggerverse.   In fact, I've been online quite a bit - but just not here.

The reason for my (perceived) absence is three-fold:  creative ventures, reaction to a shitty Wisconsin governor and happy pills.

Creative ventures are indeed a good thing.  I landed my first official freelance gig as rjl creative in the form of a logo design.  Granted, it was for a law firm and thus, not very "outside the box" design - but I look at it as a foray into new territory.  I can do the whimsy as well as the traditional (even if the whimsy is way more fun). I may eventually get the logo on my website.  I've also been commissioned update the Southeastern Wisconsin Arts Guild blog - for which I designed the logo.  If you're looking for something to do in the arts community in SE WI, check this site out!  

On the "paying the bills job", I've been delving into the world of video editing (which I haven't done since college - and I'm sure the technology has evolved slightly) as well as learning about podcasts and RSS feeds.  As much as I love the graphic design aspect of my job, print media - while still present - is declining.  One can only go so far with graphic design and basic web skills, so I must evolve along with the marketing industry.  This is fine - learning new stuff is fun for me.  And no, I highly doubt this new found knowledge will produce the next SModcast-esque podcast.Who knew that my creative and technical skills would eventually merge?  It frightens me verily....

A shitty Wisconsin governor is not a good thing.  In fact, Scott Walker is a fucking douchebag.  During the past six weeks since his dictatorship over the state's government, I have been reading articles, blogs, etc. about how this doofus is stripping citizens of their rights and putting the state's future prosperity on the backs of the lower and middle class.  Additionally, I commend the Wisconsin 14 for fleeing the state and exposing the current regime for what it really is.  This is not what democracy looks like.

Well, I guess that tells you where I stand on the issues facing Wisconsin.  However, it has prompted me to be more involved in politics (which I strangely like) and stand up for causes I believe in.  Call it the proverbial fire under the ass.  As a result, I have gotten into debates (and some arguments) facebook - particularly regarding the Wisconsin situation.  And really, at this point, I don't care if you agree with me or not - at least realize there is another side to the story (even if I contend you're wrong).  If so inclined, I also have been posting frequently on my Twitter account - some political in nature, some completely random musings (i.e. damn this Greek yogurt is good).

Happy pills are a good-bad thing.  As some of you know, I was having health issues the past couple months.  I wasn't feeling like myself - extremely jumpy, having "worst case scenario thoughts", insomnia, etc.  After numerous tests (my cholesterol, vitamin levels, thyroid, blood sugar are all fine), I was diagnosed with GAD (general anxiety disorder).  Yes, this surprised me as much as anyone.  But in reviewing the past 2.5 years, I realized I've been through a lot of shit (with some good sprinkled in) and quite frankly, I'm surprised it took this long. 

I can tell you anxiety meds are not fun.  The first one gave me acid reflux - and for someone who never has even had heartburn prior to this, that was interesting.  The second one gave me killer headaches.  If that's what a migraine is like, I never want to experience one.  Finally, the third time is the charm (I hope).  It's been a week and so far, so good.  Although, this may hinder me in hoisting more that a couple pints 'o Guinness this evening. 

Sláinte! ~ Cheers!

freelance?

I think it's really about time to develop/promote my freelance site (and subsequently promote a freelance business). Yes, it is relatively slow at work so I should be working on something, right?

I have the site layout configured in my head; it's just a matter of getting on the interwebs in a cohesive, somewhat "pretty" fashion. I think I've discovered a way add designs and photography without having the upload each piece individually. And thankfully, I have a little above basic knowledge of html, xml and css.

However, the hardest part has been creating the logo. No, I'm not a fan of the current one. You'd think that if I could design logos for others, this would be a piece of cake (or in my case, pie). Nope. Just like in life, it's hardest do to things for yourself. Sadly, I've probably been using this as a crutch for not getting myself out there.

The good news is that I have a few logos created but not unveiled to anyone...yet (but the swirl is involved). The bad news is that I can't seem to escape red and green (my favorite colors), which might explain why I prefer blue and silver at Christmas.

The catch is trying to decide on one, then I won't have any more excuses. Or that's what I'll keep telling myself.

six-month (and a couple days) check-up

Wednesday during Snowpocalypse 2011, it did dawn on my that it was also Groundhog Day - which coincidentally is my half-birthday. I would like to note that Puxatony Phil usually never gives me a good half-birthday present as the little bastard sees his shadow. This year Phil didn't see his shadow, but with snow drifts currently taller than me in Milwaukee, I question his accuracy of an early spring.

But that also means it's time for that six-month check-up of "birthday wishes 2010". (If you're so inclined, you can also view the three-month review.)

I know you were on the edge of your seat waiting for this, so....

• promote/develop my freelance design "business" (using that term loosely) - Still a work in progress, but getting closer. I've started to update my rjl creative site to add writing samples and (fingers crossed) I'll eventually add some photos taken at facilities. But have I made the effort to really promote it...eh, not really.
• a MacBook - Same request as three-months ago: If anyone would like to purchase one for me, it would be much appreciated. Maybe I should use the Christmas $$$ intended for a LCD TV for this instead....
• take more photographs (those of the artsy, landscape variety) - I did take some cool pics of my nephews over Christmas, not artsy but photography nonetheless. When the weather gets warmer, I'll likely do more landscape shots.(Again, judge for yourself here.)
• learn to play bass - Ummmm, I went to a Rock Band NYE party and didn't even touch the bass there. Maybe this was a lofty goal/wish. It would also help if I actually had a bass.
• catch up with friends I haven't seen much in the past year - Still rockin' this one. In fact, I've been told by a certain someone I talk on the phone a lot.
• keep in touch with friends I actually see - Despite it being winter, the season in which I'm more reclusive, I've actually braved the elements and seen people. Except for the hashers; it's too damn cold to be hashing.
• visit friends in faraway places - specifically those in Florida, Arizona and Connecticut - who I keep promising I'll visit - The ball is rolling to visit Arizona - just need to find a non-insanely priced plane ticket. Tickets to DC for less than $150 round-trip have spoiled me. Still no headway on Florida or Connecticut, and the June Philly trip is still up in the air.
• teleportation to see said friends and my nephews more often - Yet another lofty goal/wish. But I did see my nephews at Christmas and my brother is coming to visit at the end of April so that's close, right?
• travel internationally without my mom - Nope.
• the adapter thingie that allows you to use your iPod in the car - Thanks to a great bf, I got one for my birthday...and I haven't broken it yet!
• a Wii Fit - I'm still thinking I'd rather have an LCD TV. Now it's just a matter of using that Christmas $$$ to buy it. Target has some good deals this week...hmmm....
• lose that last 20 lbs - I still don't own a scale, and I wouldn't even look at the scale at the doctor's office. However, I wasn't told I NEEDED to lose weight so I must be in my weight range. All I know is some of my clothes are looser and I wear a medium in some clothes. Funny thing is I really don't know what the hell I'm doing to promote this.
• manage my finances more effectively - I would be more effective at this if I didn't have to pay insurance deductibles. Damn deductibles. However, I'm still better than I have been in recent years.
• actually watch some shows I've DVRed - I may have actually watched a couple shows. I'm really bad at this.
• become more involved with the K-Family again - Not only is that membership form turned in, I attended a holiday social which was a lot of fun. Hoping to make it to a service project in the near future.
• world peace (sorry I had to) - Given the recent events in Egypt....yeah, right.
• instead of complaining about something, do something to change it - Ok, I still complain...but then I work on changing it. Yes, this is the same as three months ago.
• give up diet Dew - I'll admit it. I had one at a party in November. I was driving, had a 1/2 hour drive back and needed caffeine. This was the only available option. The good thing is that I didn't want another one later. Come to think of it, I haven't even had caffeine in six days and I'm not dead. I'm impressed.

three month check-up

Well, it's been three months since my birthday and thus, time to revisit my progress on my birthday wishes 2010. See kids, this is what happens when you publicize things...it holds you accountable.

So without further adieu, here is the update:

• promote/develop my freelance design "business" (using that term loosely) - I completely revamped Jeanette Hurt's website and the WIUM KDF website, as well as created a logo for a cancer awareness fundraiser (note the shameless plugs). Still a work in progress, but getting closer.
• a MacBook - I look at the website frequently, but really can't afford to drop the $999. If anyone would like to purchase one for me, it would be much appreciated.
• take more photographs (those of the artsy, landscape variety) - I pretty much have my camera with me almost all the time, so I actually have been doing it. Whether it good photography, that's questionable but you can judge for yourself here.
• learn to play bass - I don't think I've even been close to a bass in the past three months.
• catch up with friends I haven't seen much in the past year - Thanks to the modern miracles of e-mail and facebook, this is being accomplished. Plus, I've actually seen said friends in persons at least once.
• keep in touch with friends I actually see - I've been good at this one.
• visit friends in faraway places - specifically those in Florida, Arizona and Connecticut - who I keep promising I'll visit - The ball is rolling to visit Arizona - just need to confirm that the date works for all parties involved. No headway on Florida or Connecticut, but I may be going to Philly for the Cubs/Phils series in June (note: I have friends in Philly & South Jersey).
• teleportation to see said friends and my nephews more often - I did see the nephews in October, but it was via good, old-fashioned airplane. I may lack the scientific know-how for this teleportation thing.
• travel internationally without my mom - Not yet.
• the adapter thingie that allows you to use your iPod in the car - Thanks to a great bf, I got one for my birthday!
• a Wii Fit - I'm thinking I'd rather have an LCD TV.
• lose that last 20 lbs - Since I don't own a scale, I probably will never know. But I've been told it looks like I lost weight. Maybe if I start doing that boot camp regularly that nearly killed me on Saturday morning...
• manage my finances more effectively - I haven't touched my growth savings account since July. For me, this is major progress.
• actually watch some shows I've DVRed - Ha ha ha...I had to delete some to make room for shows I may or may not get around to watching.
• become more involved with the K-Family again - Despite the bball incident, I turned in my membership form today.
• world peace (sorry I had to) - I doubt it will happen in my lifetime.
• instead of complaining about something, do something to change it - Ok, I still complain...but then I work on changing it.
• give up diet Dew - Admittedly, I only had this one in my mind as I thought it would be near impossible. However, I have not had one since 17 August. Yay me!

So there you have it...your long-awaited update. If you check back in three months, I may even have a six month update.