Last August, I made a goal for myself that I would be back in the Pacific Northwest in a year's time. Obviously that time has come and gone, and I'm still here in Texas, so that didn't end up happening, but I have been giving it more thought over the last couple of weeks.
The original plan was for me to end up Seattle since I had already experienced Portland, but in all reality I'd be happy with either. Heck, anywhere on the West Coast would be nice at this point (well, almost. Don't know about L.A.). I just feel like being on that side of the country would match up with who I am better than my current location even though I'm a Texan born and raised.
Honestly, I think I'm just nostalgic for what I had in Portland, and I'd like to have it back. The thing is, I don't want to give up what I have here in Texas either. While being back home, I've realized how much I need to be around my family, and I've been spoiled by being so close to them over the past two years. I don't know if I can go back to living half-way across the country and only getting to come home once or twice a year.
If I was a smart man, I'd compromise and settle down in Austin which has similar sensibilities as Seattle and Portland but is still close to those I love. I just don't want to feel like I missed out on something by not living in Seattle for a spell. Plus, I've always gotten by on my looks and not on my brain ;)
Showing posts with label Portland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Portland. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Saturday, May 15, 2010
My Rainy Daze
One of the reasons I moved back to Texas was because I was tired of the gray, rainy days in Portland, OR. Had I known that Central Texas was just as dreary during the winter and early spring, I would thought about sticking around PDX a little bit longer. The fact that I've really been missing Portland doesn't help things either.
Friday, January 29, 2010
My Tumbling Tumbleweed
Once again, I find myself going back on something that I thought I wanted. A few posts ago, I talked about how seeing my nieces made me realize that I want to start settling down and yadda, yadda, yadda. After a couple of days, I'm not so sure that's the case anymore.
The thought of being cemented to one place has always been unnerving to me. Maybe I'm just not the settling type, and I'm the kind of person that needs to shake things up from time to time, even if the act of constant change is a pattern unto itself (ironic, right?).
I'm bringing this up because one day I had this idea that was kind of exciting, and I could not remember the last time I was excited. I told myself how cool it would be if I set a goal for myself that involved me living in ten different cities throughout the country. At the time it sounded like an admirable target to hit.
What's even more encouraging is the fact that I'm almost half way there since I've spent time in Midland, San Antonio, Portland, and now San Marcos. My sights are now set on Austin, San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, Boulder or Ft. Collins, and Hawaii. Sounds do-able?
I know that this is a lofty goal, and I'd be lucky to get to one or two of these cities, but it's good to be ambitious (or delusional). And I know that I need to figure out what I'm chasing after before I end up without a true home because maybe it's just around the corner instead of half-way across the country.
The thought of being cemented to one place has always been unnerving to me. Maybe I'm just not the settling type, and I'm the kind of person that needs to shake things up from time to time, even if the act of constant change is a pattern unto itself (ironic, right?).
I'm bringing this up because one day I had this idea that was kind of exciting, and I could not remember the last time I was excited. I told myself how cool it would be if I set a goal for myself that involved me living in ten different cities throughout the country. At the time it sounded like an admirable target to hit.
What's even more encouraging is the fact that I'm almost half way there since I've spent time in Midland, San Antonio, Portland, and now San Marcos. My sights are now set on Austin, San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, Boulder or Ft. Collins, and Hawaii. Sounds do-able?
I know that this is a lofty goal, and I'd be lucky to get to one or two of these cities, but it's good to be ambitious (or delusional). And I know that I need to figure out what I'm chasing after before I end up without a true home because maybe it's just around the corner instead of half-way across the country.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
My Stumptown
For some reason I've really been missing Portland lately. Maybe it's because of all of the Leverage that I've been watching, but I have a feeling there's more to it than that. I just miss the culture and vibe, and more importantly all of my PDX friends.
I was lucky to have met some of the greatest people on the planet while living up in Portland, and while it was hard leaving them behind, I knew that I had to at the time. Now, I'm kicking myself a little bit for taking off like that, but I'm still convinced that I needed to come home, even if it's only for a little while. Maybe my path will take me back to the Northwest...you never know.
The crazy thing is, I didn't think I'd be missing PDX like this, but the old adage is true, you don't know what you have until it's gone. I took Portland for granted, and didn't take full advantage of what the city had to offer while I was living up there. I just need to make sure I don't make that mistake again, and I need to live it up in Austin while I'm in Central Texas because I don't need anymore regret.
Luckily for me, I have plenty of reasons to visit Portland and places to crash. This time around, I won't let the charm of the city go to waste.
I was lucky to have met some of the greatest people on the planet while living up in Portland, and while it was hard leaving them behind, I knew that I had to at the time. Now, I'm kicking myself a little bit for taking off like that, but I'm still convinced that I needed to come home, even if it's only for a little while. Maybe my path will take me back to the Northwest...you never know.
The crazy thing is, I didn't think I'd be missing PDX like this, but the old adage is true, you don't know what you have until it's gone. I took Portland for granted, and didn't take full advantage of what the city had to offer while I was living up there. I just need to make sure I don't make that mistake again, and I need to live it up in Austin while I'm in Central Texas because I don't need anymore regret.
Luckily for me, I have plenty of reasons to visit Portland and places to crash. This time around, I won't let the charm of the city go to waste.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
My Pilots
Apparently, the University of Portland's basketball team is off to its best start in some time, and they just knocked off UCLA and No. 16 Minnesota. Add to this the fact that Portland State's basketball team has made the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament the past two seasons. It looks like Portland is becoming a hotbed for men's basketball. Not to mention women's soccer.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
My Reminiscence
Earlier tonight I was driving one of the back roads in San Marcos in order to get to know the city a little better, and for some reason it reminded me of living in Portland. I guess it reminded me of exploring my new surroundings a few years back, so I started to become nostalgic, and I started to miss Portland. The clouds and cold didn't help matters either.
Now, don't get me wrong, I don't regret leaving Oregon because it was the right move, but there are a lot of things that I'm going to miss. While I don't see myself ever living there again, I know that I'll be back to visit sooner rather than later.
At first, I was a little thrown by these memories because I'm not the most sentimental person in the world, but I guess it hit me that here I am starting from scratch all over again. I pride myself on my adventurous spirit and longing for new things, but I was also reminded that constantly moving around in order to have these new experiences leads to a lack of familiarity...a lack of feeling at home.
Maybe San Marcos (or better yet, Austin) will be it for me, and I'll finally start laying down some roots, or maybe I'll be off to somewhere new in a couple of years, but at least I know that I want someplace to call home before it's too late.
Now, don't get me wrong, I don't regret leaving Oregon because it was the right move, but there are a lot of things that I'm going to miss. While I don't see myself ever living there again, I know that I'll be back to visit sooner rather than later.
At first, I was a little thrown by these memories because I'm not the most sentimental person in the world, but I guess it hit me that here I am starting from scratch all over again. I pride myself on my adventurous spirit and longing for new things, but I was also reminded that constantly moving around in order to have these new experiences leads to a lack of familiarity...a lack of feeling at home.
Maybe San Marcos (or better yet, Austin) will be it for me, and I'll finally start laying down some roots, or maybe I'll be off to somewhere new in a couple of years, but at least I know that I want someplace to call home before it's too late.
Monday, June 8, 2009
My California Love
Still no word from UH, and I'm not really expecting any good news by this point. Hope is not gone just yet because I stumbled across a pretty sweet sounding job at the University of San Francisco. It's an admissions counselor position, so I'm hoping that the combination of orientation and admissions experience will give me a decent shot. If not, oh well.
Right now, the plan continues to be heading back to Texas and going from there. There are a few jobs back home that have piqued my interest, but part of me really feels like some time in California would do some good. That's why I've been focusing on the Bay Area and San Diego for the last couple of weeks. We'll just have to see what happens I suppose.
All I know is my time in Portland is coming to an end, and I think I'm actually going to miss it here. Yeah, I was shocked too!
Right now, the plan continues to be heading back to Texas and going from there. There are a few jobs back home that have piqued my interest, but part of me really feels like some time in California would do some good. That's why I've been focusing on the Bay Area and San Diego for the last couple of weeks. We'll just have to see what happens I suppose.
All I know is my time in Portland is coming to an end, and I think I'm actually going to miss it here. Yeah, I was shocked too!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
My Last Straw
The other day, I received an e-mail from Portland Community College letting me know that I'm not longer in the running for the position that I applied for. I was a little bummed at first, but then I quickly realized that it was a blessing.
In all reality, that job application was the only thing that would have kept me in Portland. Now, I'm free to move on and do something else. Right now, I have applications pending at the University of San Diego and the University of Hawaii...maybe one of those will work out for me.
In all reality, that job application was the only thing that would have kept me in Portland. Now, I'm free to move on and do something else. Right now, I have applications pending at the University of San Diego and the University of Hawaii...maybe one of those will work out for me.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
My Second (or Third or Fourth) Thoughts
I stumbled across a pretty sweet job opening down in San Diego. I might have to re-think this whole "only Portland or Texas" stance.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
My Blues & Grays
So, Texans might be overweight, but at least they're happy...unlike Portlanders and Seattleites. Hmm, I wonder if there's a connection? I'd be unhappy too if I had to eat granola and rabbit food while being rained on day after day ;)
In all seriousness, I don't take the findings of this report to heart because any study can skew its data to say whatever it wants. Portland's not that bad of a place to live, but I could do with some better food and more sun.
In all seriousness, I don't take the findings of this report to heart because any study can skew its data to say whatever it wants. Portland's not that bad of a place to live, but I could do with some better food and more sun.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
My Lone Star Pride
I've never been prouder to be a Texan until now. Seriously, 3 out of the 10 fattest cities are in Texas while Portland is ranked #6 on the Fittest Cities list. Maybe I should stick around the Northwest for a little bit longer.
Friday, February 6, 2009
My Reset Button
It seems that my rudderless ship has found a little bit of direction. Recently, I had a moment of clarity that informed me that I have an idea about where I want to set up shop for the rest of my life, or most of it at least.
Some of my previous posts revolved around me trying to figure out where I'd be heading next once I'm done with school. There was a point where I was convinced that I'd be moving on, then I was sold on the thought of moving back to Texas, and then I was back to leaving Portland for Colorado or California. Back and forth, back and forth.
Then I realized that my desire to move to Boulder or San Diego had little to do with being adventurous, rather it was based on my need to start over from scratch...to push the reset button. At the time I figured this was the answer because it shows that I refuse to be pinned down, and that I'm a free spirit. Then it hit me that a big reason for this need to move around stems from fear; the fear of settling down and living my life. My time in Portland has been rough on me, so I figured I'd just leave it all behind rather than finding my place here. When I thought about it, I felt that I was looking for a reason to run away, and I don't want to be that guy.
Now, I'm not saying that I've decided to make Portland my permanent home, but I'm more open to that idea now more than ever. The truth is, I have roots here despite my efforts to avoid such a thing. The only other serious option for me is the inevitable return to Texas. Sure, I'd be moving and reestablishing myself, but at least I'd be home...I have family and friends there.
So, I think for once I have an idea of where I belong, and while I'd like the new experiences that living in a new place would bring, I just need to settle down and start living. I'm not pushing the reset button just yet, but I am going to put my life on shuffle so I can shake things up a bit.
Some of my previous posts revolved around me trying to figure out where I'd be heading next once I'm done with school. There was a point where I was convinced that I'd be moving on, then I was sold on the thought of moving back to Texas, and then I was back to leaving Portland for Colorado or California. Back and forth, back and forth.
Then I realized that my desire to move to Boulder or San Diego had little to do with being adventurous, rather it was based on my need to start over from scratch...to push the reset button. At the time I figured this was the answer because it shows that I refuse to be pinned down, and that I'm a free spirit. Then it hit me that a big reason for this need to move around stems from fear; the fear of settling down and living my life. My time in Portland has been rough on me, so I figured I'd just leave it all behind rather than finding my place here. When I thought about it, I felt that I was looking for a reason to run away, and I don't want to be that guy.
Now, I'm not saying that I've decided to make Portland my permanent home, but I'm more open to that idea now more than ever. The truth is, I have roots here despite my efforts to avoid such a thing. The only other serious option for me is the inevitable return to Texas. Sure, I'd be moving and reestablishing myself, but at least I'd be home...I have family and friends there.
So, I think for once I have an idea of where I belong, and while I'd like the new experiences that living in a new place would bring, I just need to settle down and start living. I'm not pushing the reset button just yet, but I am going to put my life on shuffle so I can shake things up a bit.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
My Top 5 Places I'd Like to Move To
REVISED: 1/12/09
Now, I know that a lot of my future is out of my hands, but I can't help but think about the places I'd like to move to next. Sure, this may be a waste of time, but it doesn't hurt to wonder about a life that may never exist, right?
1. San Diego, CA
The only thing I like more than snow is the sun and the beach. From what I've seen San Diego offers both. I've read that San Diego has over 260 days of sunshine a year, but I'm sure it has its share of rainy weather, but it's probably not as bad as it is up here in Oregon.
Also, I have the feeling that San Diego has a more diverse population. I miss seeing minorities. Also, there are two schools that I've been keeping my eye on for a few years now, San Diego State and the University of San Diego. Two very different schools, but I have experience with both types of institutions, so I'm hoping that works in my favor.
2. Boulder, CO
The one thing I learned this Christmas season is I like the snow. Arctic Blast 08 covered Portland in snow, and shut down the city for a few days. For some reason, a lot of people hated being subjected to these conditions, but I couldn't help but love every minute of it. Sure, it sucked being stuck inside but all I had to do is look outside to watch the snowfall and I was happy again. Maybe it's because snow is so foreign to me.
From what I've read online, Boulder offers the best of both worlds. The city boasts that it has more than 300 sunny or mostly sunny days a year (a huge plus to someone who is tired of the dreary grayness of Portland), and mild winters with some substantial snowfall. You can't beat that. Plus, the University of Colorado is located in Boulder, so hopefully job opportunities will exist for me in the mountains.
3. Austin, TX
Spending time in Houston over the break convinced me that if I move back to Texas the only place for me is Austin, which is kind of funny since I used to hate Austin when I lived in San Antonio. The main reason Austin is appealing to me is because it's not as big as Houston or Dallas. Just being in a small part of Houston reminded me how big it was, and how I feel more at home in mid-sized cities. I also think I'd like the vibe of Austin since it's similar to that of Portland. Plus, Austin is still close enough to San Antonio and Houston so I can visit family when I feel like it.
The only drawback to Austin is the limited job prospects. Sure, there's UT, but my hatred for that school might be too deep. The only other real option is St. Edwards University, which could work out since it's a Holy Cross institution like the University of Portland.
4. Honolulu, HI
For the last couple of years now I've been feeling this force pulling me towards the Hawaiian islands, and I'm tempted to give in. This longing to move to Hawaii started a few years ago when we went for my grandmother's funeral. It was a sad time, but I remember feeling so at home there. It just felt like I belonged there. Probably because I've always felt like I fit in more with my mom's side of the family than my dad's.
Honolulu is the largest city in Hawaii, so I would have the semi-big city atmosphere that I like, and it's home to the University of Hawaii, Chaminade University, and Hawaii Pacific University, so there's the potential for work there as well. The main negative about Honolulu is the fact that Hawaii is so far away from the mainland. I'm afraid I'd get island fever sooner than later.
5. Portland, OR
Contrary to what people might think, I like living in Portland...it's the weather that I can't stand. The city itself is great, vibrant, diverse in terms of lifestyles and viewpoints (not so much ethnically), and it's just a cool place to be. Plus, the summers are amazing. Also, I have some small roots here in Portland. Slowly this city started becoming home, albeit a gray, rainy home.
As for work, there are tons of schools in the Portland area to work for. The trickiest part is finding a school that is the right fit. The thing is, I like to be challenged and I like change, and sticking around Portland might not fulfill those needs.
Honorable Mentions (in no particular order): Denver, CO; Buffalo, NY; Boston, MA; Salt Lake City, UT; Nashville, TN; San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA
These are the five cities I'd like to live in if I had the opportunity, but in all honesty I'm willing to live anywhere just as long as I can find a good job. These would be ideal, but I'm not picky...well, not THAT picky.
Now, I know that a lot of my future is out of my hands, but I can't help but think about the places I'd like to move to next. Sure, this may be a waste of time, but it doesn't hurt to wonder about a life that may never exist, right?
1. San Diego, CA
The only thing I like more than snow is the sun and the beach. From what I've seen San Diego offers both. I've read that San Diego has over 260 days of sunshine a year, but I'm sure it has its share of rainy weather, but it's probably not as bad as it is up here in Oregon.
Also, I have the feeling that San Diego has a more diverse population. I miss seeing minorities. Also, there are two schools that I've been keeping my eye on for a few years now, San Diego State and the University of San Diego. Two very different schools, but I have experience with both types of institutions, so I'm hoping that works in my favor.
2. Boulder, CO
The one thing I learned this Christmas season is I like the snow. Arctic Blast 08 covered Portland in snow, and shut down the city for a few days. For some reason, a lot of people hated being subjected to these conditions, but I couldn't help but love every minute of it. Sure, it sucked being stuck inside but all I had to do is look outside to watch the snowfall and I was happy again. Maybe it's because snow is so foreign to me.
From what I've read online, Boulder offers the best of both worlds. The city boasts that it has more than 300 sunny or mostly sunny days a year (a huge plus to someone who is tired of the dreary grayness of Portland), and mild winters with some substantial snowfall. You can't beat that. Plus, the University of Colorado is located in Boulder, so hopefully job opportunities will exist for me in the mountains.
3. Austin, TX
Spending time in Houston over the break convinced me that if I move back to Texas the only place for me is Austin, which is kind of funny since I used to hate Austin when I lived in San Antonio. The main reason Austin is appealing to me is because it's not as big as Houston or Dallas. Just being in a small part of Houston reminded me how big it was, and how I feel more at home in mid-sized cities. I also think I'd like the vibe of Austin since it's similar to that of Portland. Plus, Austin is still close enough to San Antonio and Houston so I can visit family when I feel like it.
The only drawback to Austin is the limited job prospects. Sure, there's UT, but my hatred for that school might be too deep. The only other real option is St. Edwards University, which could work out since it's a Holy Cross institution like the University of Portland.
4. Honolulu, HI
For the last couple of years now I've been feeling this force pulling me towards the Hawaiian islands, and I'm tempted to give in. This longing to move to Hawaii started a few years ago when we went for my grandmother's funeral. It was a sad time, but I remember feeling so at home there. It just felt like I belonged there. Probably because I've always felt like I fit in more with my mom's side of the family than my dad's.
Honolulu is the largest city in Hawaii, so I would have the semi-big city atmosphere that I like, and it's home to the University of Hawaii, Chaminade University, and Hawaii Pacific University, so there's the potential for work there as well. The main negative about Honolulu is the fact that Hawaii is so far away from the mainland. I'm afraid I'd get island fever sooner than later.
5. Portland, OR
Contrary to what people might think, I like living in Portland...it's the weather that I can't stand. The city itself is great, vibrant, diverse in terms of lifestyles and viewpoints (not so much ethnically), and it's just a cool place to be. Plus, the summers are amazing. Also, I have some small roots here in Portland. Slowly this city started becoming home, albeit a gray, rainy home.
As for work, there are tons of schools in the Portland area to work for. The trickiest part is finding a school that is the right fit. The thing is, I like to be challenged and I like change, and sticking around Portland might not fulfill those needs.
Honorable Mentions (in no particular order): Denver, CO; Buffalo, NY; Boston, MA; Salt Lake City, UT; Nashville, TN; San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA
These are the five cities I'd like to live in if I had the opportunity, but in all honesty I'm willing to live anywhere just as long as I can find a good job. These would be ideal, but I'm not picky...well, not THAT picky.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
My Resolution
I've never really been a New Year's Resolution kind of guy. They've just seemed a little silly. Despite my feelings, I have attempted to make and keep some goals the last couple of years, and I've done OK for the most part.
I've decided to make another resolution for 2009, which is to give myself a break, stop worrying about the future, and to enjoy the rest of the time I have here in Portland. It sounds easy, but it's trickier than it may seem.
The majority of the last couple of months have been filled with anxiety due to not knowing what I'm going to be doing or where I'm going to be living once I'm done with school. I know that I have very little control over these matters, and I should just let things unfold, but that can be scary.
Also, I've been living my life with one foot in Portland and the other out the door, which has held me back when it comes to putting myself out there to establish new relationships. Part of me feels that there's no point because more than likely I won't be sticking around. The other part of me is frustrated because I'm closing myself off to so many great memories.
So, I guess my ultimate goal for 2009 is to just live...
I've decided to make another resolution for 2009, which is to give myself a break, stop worrying about the future, and to enjoy the rest of the time I have here in Portland. It sounds easy, but it's trickier than it may seem.
The majority of the last couple of months have been filled with anxiety due to not knowing what I'm going to be doing or where I'm going to be living once I'm done with school. I know that I have very little control over these matters, and I should just let things unfold, but that can be scary.
Also, I've been living my life with one foot in Portland and the other out the door, which has held me back when it comes to putting myself out there to establish new relationships. Part of me feels that there's no point because more than likely I won't be sticking around. The other part of me is frustrated because I'm closing myself off to so many great memories.
So, I guess my ultimate goal for 2009 is to just live...
Saturday, December 27, 2008
My Christmas Vacation
So, I made it back to Portland safely, and the overall trip was easy despite the snowy weather in Oregon. My outgoing flight was delayed only an hour, and there were not any complications coming back from Houston, so I lucked out.
The trip itself was your typical Christmas. I had the chance to visit with my loved ones, received some great DVDs, and I had the chance to relax a little bit. Not a bad trip at all. It was also good to be back in Texas, even if it was only for a few days.
The only downside of the trip is the fact that it was cloudy and rainy for most of the time while I was there. I swear I can never leave the rain to save my life. I think rainclouds just follow me around. It was also very humid in Houston, which isn't anything new, but it just reminded me how much I've gotten used to the weather up here in Portland.
Being in Houston also gave me something to think about, especially when it comes to my next big move. I realized that I really, really, really don't like the heat and humidity, which could rule out Houston (or any where on the Gulf Coast) as a possible destination. Combine this revelation with the fact that I really enjoyed the snow in Portland, and I think I have a better idea of where I might belong, i.e. somewhere that has sun but also gets cold and snowy with little to no humidity. Where could that be?
My trip home was good, and it was nice to see the family again, but I was really excited to be back in Portland. Part of me actually missed the cold and snow, and for the first time in a long time I referred to Portland as home...maybe that will factor in my next decision as well.
The trip itself was your typical Christmas. I had the chance to visit with my loved ones, received some great DVDs, and I had the chance to relax a little bit. Not a bad trip at all. It was also good to be back in Texas, even if it was only for a few days.
The only downside of the trip is the fact that it was cloudy and rainy for most of the time while I was there. I swear I can never leave the rain to save my life. I think rainclouds just follow me around. It was also very humid in Houston, which isn't anything new, but it just reminded me how much I've gotten used to the weather up here in Portland.
Being in Houston also gave me something to think about, especially when it comes to my next big move. I realized that I really, really, really don't like the heat and humidity, which could rule out Houston (or any where on the Gulf Coast) as a possible destination. Combine this revelation with the fact that I really enjoyed the snow in Portland, and I think I have a better idea of where I might belong, i.e. somewhere that has sun but also gets cold and snowy with little to no humidity. Where could that be?
My trip home was good, and it was nice to see the family again, but I was really excited to be back in Portland. Part of me actually missed the cold and snow, and for the first time in a long time I referred to Portland as home...maybe that will factor in my next decision as well.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
My Snowball
So, apparently Portland's going to be buried under snow for the next couple of days. The storm really rolled in last Sunday, and it's been off and on, but it really came down today. We got like 8 inches.
I like snow well enough, but even I think I've hit my limit. It's not the snow that I mind; it's the being stuck in the apartment that is starting to get to me. Also, my hot water heater decided to spring a leak, so I had to deal with that. My apartment manager and I ripped up part of the carpet to avoid mold, and hopefully people will be by on Monday (assuming the city isn't shut down) to fix things up. It's kind of a bummer, but it could have been worse; it could have leaked while I was gone thus flooding my entire apartment. That's me, always looking at the bright side.
Back to the snow. It's been really beautiful seeing the entire city blanketed in snow, but I just wish the roads weren't so bad. Cabin fever's setting in, and I'm starting to freak out about my flight next week. Things are supposed to be slightly better on Tuesday (the day I fly out to Houston), but snow and ice are still in the forecast. We'll just have to wait and see. It has been a nice little preview for me though because I've always said I'd like to live in Colorado, and for some reason this is how I picture life in the Rockies.
So, sure it's been kinda boring being shut it, but I had the chance to watch Eureka: Season 1, had some hot soup, and I have a warm place to sleep. I really can't complain in the end.
I like snow well enough, but even I think I've hit my limit. It's not the snow that I mind; it's the being stuck in the apartment that is starting to get to me. Also, my hot water heater decided to spring a leak, so I had to deal with that. My apartment manager and I ripped up part of the carpet to avoid mold, and hopefully people will be by on Monday (assuming the city isn't shut down) to fix things up. It's kind of a bummer, but it could have been worse; it could have leaked while I was gone thus flooding my entire apartment. That's me, always looking at the bright side.
Back to the snow. It's been really beautiful seeing the entire city blanketed in snow, but I just wish the roads weren't so bad. Cabin fever's setting in, and I'm starting to freak out about my flight next week. Things are supposed to be slightly better on Tuesday (the day I fly out to Houston), but snow and ice are still in the forecast. We'll just have to wait and see. It has been a nice little preview for me though because I've always said I'd like to live in Colorado, and for some reason this is how I picture life in the Rockies.
So, sure it's been kinda boring being shut it, but I had the chance to watch Eureka: Season 1, had some hot soup, and I have a warm place to sleep. I really can't complain in the end.
Monday, December 15, 2008
My Snow Day
Yesterday was the first snow in Portland, so of course the entire city practically shut down. I'm not complaining because that meant I had a snow day today. I really didn't do much with my day off; slept in, watched some movies, surfed the net, took a nap, but it was a nice little break from reality.
I also remembered how much of a love-hate relationship I have with snow. I love it because it's snow! Who doesn't love watching the flakes fall, the world blanketed in white, remembering the joyous times as a kid when you played in it. Snow really is a cool thing...unless you have to leave your house. I've lived up here in Portland for close to four years, and it only really snows a handful of times per year, so my snow driving skills are limited. Add to this the fact that I grew up in West Texas, and you can understand why the thought of driving in the snow is stressful. I'd love to live in a place where it snows fairly regularly, but I'd never get anything done because I'd be cooped up inside the entire time. OK, so I know I'll eventually pick up the skills to navigate slick highway conditions, but it's still an unsettling thought.
The past two days have been a nice little timeout from the rest of my life. I had the chance to marvel at the snowfall like I did when I was younger, and I had the chance to take some time for myself. Why can't everyday be a snow day?
I also remembered how much of a love-hate relationship I have with snow. I love it because it's snow! Who doesn't love watching the flakes fall, the world blanketed in white, remembering the joyous times as a kid when you played in it. Snow really is a cool thing...unless you have to leave your house. I've lived up here in Portland for close to four years, and it only really snows a handful of times per year, so my snow driving skills are limited. Add to this the fact that I grew up in West Texas, and you can understand why the thought of driving in the snow is stressful. I'd love to live in a place where it snows fairly regularly, but I'd never get anything done because I'd be cooped up inside the entire time. OK, so I know I'll eventually pick up the skills to navigate slick highway conditions, but it's still an unsettling thought.
The past two days have been a nice little timeout from the rest of my life. I had the chance to marvel at the snowfall like I did when I was younger, and I had the chance to take some time for myself. Why can't everyday be a snow day?
Sunday, October 26, 2008
My Here or There
The one common theme that can be seen throughout my blogs is indecision. Apparently, I have trouble picking a life path and sticking to it. For example, I was positive that I would be headed back to Texas when I was done with graduate school. It only made sense since my family is there, and I would like to start settling down sooner than later. Then I started questioning if that is the right next step for me.
Before I made this decision to move back home, I always envisioned myself making one more stop before heading back to Texas. Places like Colorado and Hawaii have always been appealing to me, and I would love to have the chance to spend some time there. I've even tossed around the idea of sticking around Portland for a few more years, but it seems like I'm at either one extreme or the other when it comes to this place. When the sun is out, I cannot imagine living anywhere else. When it's cloudy and rainy, I cannot understand why I stick around. Too bad it's cloudy and rainy half of the year. Maybe I just need to buy one of those UV headlamps.
So here I am again...trying to figure out what I want to do and where I want to live, and I'm not coming up with many answers. The only thing I know for sure is I don't know anything when it comes to what I want out of life.
Before I made this decision to move back home, I always envisioned myself making one more stop before heading back to Texas. Places like Colorado and Hawaii have always been appealing to me, and I would love to have the chance to spend some time there. I've even tossed around the idea of sticking around Portland for a few more years, but it seems like I'm at either one extreme or the other when it comes to this place. When the sun is out, I cannot imagine living anywhere else. When it's cloudy and rainy, I cannot understand why I stick around. Too bad it's cloudy and rainy half of the year. Maybe I just need to buy one of those UV headlamps.
So here I am again...trying to figure out what I want to do and where I want to live, and I'm not coming up with many answers. The only thing I know for sure is I don't know anything when it comes to what I want out of life.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
My Summer
Even though it is late September, my summer is finally coming to an end. On Monday, classes start up again, and I am not looking forward to it. Part of my hesitance is because I don't like sitting in boring classes, but another reason is because I'm not ready for summer to be over especially since I didn't get to do anything that I wanted to do.
I had a relatively short to-do list for this summer, and unfortunately I didn't cross much off of it. For example, I wanted to hit the Oregon coast. One of the benefits of living in Portland is you live in a metropolitan area, but are really close to the ocean and mountains. Last summer, I had the chance to go to the coast and I remembered how much I like being around water (something I realized while in Ireland). Sadly, I didn't have the chance to re-visit the beach, and I don't know if I'll have the chance to go back before I leave Oregon. Ah well.
Also, I really wanted to head up to Seattle for a Mariners game. I had all summer to put together a trip, but I waited until the last series of the season, and didn't ask anyone to go until the day before the game. The planning was a little short-sighted to say the least. Now, I'm not a huge Mariners fan (especially this season), but I do love baseball, and since I can't go to any Astros games this summer, Seattle's my only option. The good thing is, I'll should have a chance to go to a game next season.
Luckily, I did have the chance to head back to Texas for a quick visit, and it was much needed after 8 weeks of summer school. Living so far away is starting to take its toll on me because I don't get to see my family as much as I'd like. I'm lucky if I'm back in Texas every six to seven months, which is OK but not great. My trip back to Midland will hold me over until I go back in December, and then I'll be heading back for good in June (maybe???), so I'll be back home before I know it.
Overall, it wasn't a wasted summer but I do wish I accomplished more. Then again, I was able to cross some classes off of my list, which will make this school year a little more manageable. At least I won't have to sit through as many boring classes this time around.
I had a relatively short to-do list for this summer, and unfortunately I didn't cross much off of it. For example, I wanted to hit the Oregon coast. One of the benefits of living in Portland is you live in a metropolitan area, but are really close to the ocean and mountains. Last summer, I had the chance to go to the coast and I remembered how much I like being around water (something I realized while in Ireland). Sadly, I didn't have the chance to re-visit the beach, and I don't know if I'll have the chance to go back before I leave Oregon. Ah well.
Also, I really wanted to head up to Seattle for a Mariners game. I had all summer to put together a trip, but I waited until the last series of the season, and didn't ask anyone to go until the day before the game. The planning was a little short-sighted to say the least. Now, I'm not a huge Mariners fan (especially this season), but I do love baseball, and since I can't go to any Astros games this summer, Seattle's my only option. The good thing is, I'll should have a chance to go to a game next season.
Luckily, I did have the chance to head back to Texas for a quick visit, and it was much needed after 8 weeks of summer school. Living so far away is starting to take its toll on me because I don't get to see my family as much as I'd like. I'm lucky if I'm back in Texas every six to seven months, which is OK but not great. My trip back to Midland will hold me over until I go back in December, and then I'll be heading back for good in June (maybe???), so I'll be back home before I know it.
Overall, it wasn't a wasted summer but I do wish I accomplished more. Then again, I was able to cross some classes off of my list, which will make this school year a little more manageable. At least I won't have to sit through as many boring classes this time around.
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