Following my Southwest Airlines Twitter friends this morning at work made me wish I was in BOS for the big celebration. I was grateful that @danwebbage @curbcrusher @christiday and others were telling the story. When I learned that one of the flights was going to BWI, I decided that's where I was going- hopefully to meet them, but no guarantee.
As I made my way to the Germantown Transit Center from work, I decided that this was a poster-worthy event- I had to show my SWA Spirit! I went into Rite-Aid and bought posterboard and colored Sharpies for the project. I found a picture of a Canyon Blue Southwest jet to use as a pattern on my Blackberry and started to sketch it on the MetroRail to Greenbelt Metro Station. While waiting at the bus stop for the B30 bus to BWI, I spread out on a bus bench and continued sketching and started transferring the sketch to the posterboard.
Much to my pleasure, Brandon, a SWA pilot (I could tell by the SWAPA luggage handle) was boarding the bus. I asked him for a critique of my artistic ability when it came to aircraft graphic design. He was kind and seemed impressed with the project, as I explained what it was for. I also asked if he thought it was possible for it to get a ride to DAL SWA HDQ today, but he wasn't sure of the procedure. So I continued to work feverishly on it on the bus and then at BWI when I arrived.
It wasn't finished when the direct BOS to BWI flight arrived. I know this because a passenger from that flight saw me working on it and asked me where I came up with the "It's On!" slogan. I explained that it was Southwest Airlines' slogan and I was making a poster to greet the folks on the first flight, BOS-MDW-BWI, which left before the BOS-BWI, which in hindsight should have been the one that I greeted, since later, I would find no one who identified with the BOS-MDW leg. I continued to talk to this man who was quite a successful entrepenuer (sic) as I worked on the poster. When all was said and done, I had a pretty neat poster (if I do say so myself) and a great time, although I didn't get to meet anyone from Southwest Airlines.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Tuesday, 28 July 2009- My Trip to Potomac, MD in Honor of @nonoodle’s Un-birthday
Tuesday, 28 July 2009- My Trip to Potomac, MD in Honor of @nonoodle’s Un-birthday
This morning on twitter, I made a comment about not knowing what I was going to do today. I had been thinking of a variety of activities, buy none stood out. @nonoodle replied that I should do something that I’ve never done before”. The first thing that popped into my mind was visit Potomac, MD. @nonoodle also suggested that I should buy a fashion magazine- it’s an inside joke- I never read those things, and don’t know how to start. I told her that my Flying Magazine had fashion in it, and twitpic’ed photo’s of women with clothes on (All of them are dressed…).
When I got to Potomac, I went to the Safeway and bought a few plums and nectarines. They were a good deal, $1.99/ lb. The next store was a Tru-Value Hardware store- I bought a flashlight for work there. I went to the nearby seafood shop and bought a single giant shrimp for $1.27. After eating the shrimp, I went to the Rite-Aid and bought 2 pairs of earrings- one was free. Finally I went to Vie de France and bought a Cookie Monster Screamer. I stopped at the Chamber of Commerce for some ideas of touristy things to do. All they had were the Falls, but they were too far to walk. I returned back to Germantown satisfied with my little adventure.
This morning on twitter, I made a comment about not knowing what I was going to do today. I had been thinking of a variety of activities, buy none stood out. @nonoodle replied that I should do something that I’ve never done before”. The first thing that popped into my mind was visit Potomac, MD. @nonoodle also suggested that I should buy a fashion magazine- it’s an inside joke- I never read those things, and don’t know how to start. I told her that my Flying Magazine had fashion in it, and twitpic’ed photo’s of women with clothes on (All of them are dressed…).
When I got to Potomac, I went to the Safeway and bought a few plums and nectarines. They were a good deal, $1.99/ lb. The next store was a Tru-Value Hardware store- I bought a flashlight for work there. I went to the nearby seafood shop and bought a single giant shrimp for $1.27. After eating the shrimp, I went to the Rite-Aid and bought 2 pairs of earrings- one was free. Finally I went to Vie de France and bought a Cookie Monster Screamer. I stopped at the Chamber of Commerce for some ideas of touristy things to do. All they had were the Falls, but they were too far to walk. I returned back to Germantown satisfied with my little adventure.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Saturday, 25 July 2009- Walking from Downtown DC to DCA with a Detour, but some Incredible Airplane Pictures!
Saturday, 25 July 2009- Walking from Downtown DC to DCA with a Detour, but some Incredible Airplane Pictures!
Well, I made it back from DC in time for the 9pm bus to work. After picking up my uniform at the storage unit, I went to the bus stop next to a men’s group home, because it was a covered bus stop and it was raining. While waiting for a bus that I wasn’t sure was coming, I brushed my hair. One of the men from the group home saw me, came over, and told me I had beautiful hair. I told him it was getting cut. This guy was loaded with questions. He asked me where I was headed, if I had a boyfriend, if I wanted one, and what I was looking for in a boyfriend. Kind of awkward small talk for a first meeting… but I tried to indulge him with the honest truth: I don’t have a boyfriend, nor am I interested in getting one anytime soon. Friend, yes. Boyfriend, no. When I am ready, he’s got to appreciate my passion for aviation.
The guy said he liked military planes. He described the Nighthawk, but couldn’t remember the name. I was starting to enjoy conversation with him, but not enough to give him my phone number when he asked. He was certainly a charmer. He said he used to live in the Virgin Islands. He wanted to read my palm for a reason I can’t remember, but I pulled a Monk. I deemed that too much of an encouragement for him. I will admit I was impressed with his level of English- I would have expected him to have a different primary language- which is a major turn off.
When he told me he had Schizophrenia, I told him I had Asperger’s Syndrome. (Not diagnosed, but after having lived with an Aspie husband, I am almost certain I have a mild form of it.)
As the conversation continued, he asked my age. That was too personal to share, so I did what every other woman my age does and said I was 23. When he said that I looked fit for my age, like 25 or 26, I received it as a compliment. He asked for my phone number two more times before the bus came. My goodness!
I have a lot of those guys from that group home asking me why I am in their neck of the woods. I just tell them I am running errands. I feel a little more secure at the other bus stop in the opposite direction, which is uncovered.
Now back to the earlier part of the day! After waking up at the shelter this morning at 6:30am, I walked to Starbucks and recharged my phone. After an hour, it was half charged. I thought that would be enough for my trek to Gravelly Point and beyond.
I walked down 7th St. at E St. NE, taking pictures of street corners and scenes along the way. I turned right at G St. NW, walked one block to 9th, and turned left. I saw the Washington Channel Waterfront with its boats. When I turned right on Maine, I came to a tunnel under what I think is the Francis Case Memorial Bridge, just southeast of the 14th St. Bridge. Inside the tunnel was beautiful artwork. I couldn’t decide on which individual tiled piece of art to take a picture of. At 14th St., my battery was so close to gone. I turned right and made a beeline up 14th Street in search of a sit down breakfast place to re-recharge my phone.
Walking past the White House, I came across a motorcade. The police had the road blocked off so it could pass by. I wondered if Obama was in it, or if he was still in Chicago/Milwaukee. My battery died at 14th and I St. NW. At Thomas Circle I asked a hotel guard where the nearest McDonald’s was. He directed me to 14th and U St. NW. So I pressed on. I stopped at the post office on the way to mail Veronika’s book, Yay! The outlet at McDonald’s was powerful! I ate Cini-mini’s, hashbrowns, OJ, and a McChicken sandwich while recharging.
From there, I wanted to take New Hampshire Ave to Dupont Circle and Connecticut Ave to 17th St. NW, but time and battery charge was precious, and my destination was Gravelly Point, so I made a bee-line down 14th St. to the Jefferson Memorial. I bought a soda to hydrate myself on my way. It became my last soda, after spontaneously deciding that I would cut soda from my diet.
I caught some beautiful shots of aircraft on approach to Runway 19, while standing on the 14th St. Bridge overlooking the Potomac. All five bridges that span the Potomac at that spot are collectively called the 14th St. Bridge. Then I took a few minutes looking toward the span furthest to the east, called the Alden Williams Memorial Bridge, where the actual crash site was, and reflected on that Air Florida flight, the crew and the passengers. At one point, a Dash’s shadow passed over me! I continued to walk. Just past the Alden Williams Memorial Bridge, I found a hill leading up to a highway exit. I climbed to just below the top, and took some more great pictures of airliners’ side profiles. After a while, I continued walking, and spread my #aircraftonmycollegeparkaviationmuseumafghan on the grass just 25-ish yards from the tree line. I got incredibly detailed shots from my little Blackberry phone. Finally my battery succumbed at 5pm. I still had time to walk to DCA to catch the Metro. I almost bought a snap together model airplane, but hey, I have my Beech 17 Staggerwing, from www.warplanes.com, en route to me!
Note to self: I need to leave Gravelly Point by 4pm next time. I caught the last bus by the skin of my teeth!
Well, I made it back from DC in time for the 9pm bus to work. After picking up my uniform at the storage unit, I went to the bus stop next to a men’s group home, because it was a covered bus stop and it was raining. While waiting for a bus that I wasn’t sure was coming, I brushed my hair. One of the men from the group home saw me, came over, and told me I had beautiful hair. I told him it was getting cut. This guy was loaded with questions. He asked me where I was headed, if I had a boyfriend, if I wanted one, and what I was looking for in a boyfriend. Kind of awkward small talk for a first meeting… but I tried to indulge him with the honest truth: I don’t have a boyfriend, nor am I interested in getting one anytime soon. Friend, yes. Boyfriend, no. When I am ready, he’s got to appreciate my passion for aviation.
The guy said he liked military planes. He described the Nighthawk, but couldn’t remember the name. I was starting to enjoy conversation with him, but not enough to give him my phone number when he asked. He was certainly a charmer. He said he used to live in the Virgin Islands. He wanted to read my palm for a reason I can’t remember, but I pulled a Monk. I deemed that too much of an encouragement for him. I will admit I was impressed with his level of English- I would have expected him to have a different primary language- which is a major turn off.
When he told me he had Schizophrenia, I told him I had Asperger’s Syndrome. (Not diagnosed, but after having lived with an Aspie husband, I am almost certain I have a mild form of it.)
As the conversation continued, he asked my age. That was too personal to share, so I did what every other woman my age does and said I was 23. When he said that I looked fit for my age, like 25 or 26, I received it as a compliment. He asked for my phone number two more times before the bus came. My goodness!
I have a lot of those guys from that group home asking me why I am in their neck of the woods. I just tell them I am running errands. I feel a little more secure at the other bus stop in the opposite direction, which is uncovered.
Now back to the earlier part of the day! After waking up at the shelter this morning at 6:30am, I walked to Starbucks and recharged my phone. After an hour, it was half charged. I thought that would be enough for my trek to Gravelly Point and beyond.
I walked down 7th St. at E St. NE, taking pictures of street corners and scenes along the way. I turned right at G St. NW, walked one block to 9th, and turned left. I saw the Washington Channel Waterfront with its boats. When I turned right on Maine, I came to a tunnel under what I think is the Francis Case Memorial Bridge, just southeast of the 14th St. Bridge. Inside the tunnel was beautiful artwork. I couldn’t decide on which individual tiled piece of art to take a picture of. At 14th St., my battery was so close to gone. I turned right and made a beeline up 14th Street in search of a sit down breakfast place to re-recharge my phone.
Walking past the White House, I came across a motorcade. The police had the road blocked off so it could pass by. I wondered if Obama was in it, or if he was still in Chicago/Milwaukee. My battery died at 14th and I St. NW. At Thomas Circle I asked a hotel guard where the nearest McDonald’s was. He directed me to 14th and U St. NW. So I pressed on. I stopped at the post office on the way to mail Veronika’s book, Yay! The outlet at McDonald’s was powerful! I ate Cini-mini’s, hashbrowns, OJ, and a McChicken sandwich while recharging.
From there, I wanted to take New Hampshire Ave to Dupont Circle and Connecticut Ave to 17th St. NW, but time and battery charge was precious, and my destination was Gravelly Point, so I made a bee-line down 14th St. to the Jefferson Memorial. I bought a soda to hydrate myself on my way. It became my last soda, after spontaneously deciding that I would cut soda from my diet.
I caught some beautiful shots of aircraft on approach to Runway 19, while standing on the 14th St. Bridge overlooking the Potomac. All five bridges that span the Potomac at that spot are collectively called the 14th St. Bridge. Then I took a few minutes looking toward the span furthest to the east, called the Alden Williams Memorial Bridge, where the actual crash site was, and reflected on that Air Florida flight, the crew and the passengers. At one point, a Dash’s shadow passed over me! I continued to walk. Just past the Alden Williams Memorial Bridge, I found a hill leading up to a highway exit. I climbed to just below the top, and took some more great pictures of airliners’ side profiles. After a while, I continued walking, and spread my #aircraftonmycollegeparkaviationmuseumafghan on the grass just 25-ish yards from the tree line. I got incredibly detailed shots from my little Blackberry phone. Finally my battery succumbed at 5pm. I still had time to walk to DCA to catch the Metro. I almost bought a snap together model airplane, but hey, I have my Beech 17 Staggerwing, from www.warplanes.com, en route to me!
Note to self: I need to leave Gravelly Point by 4pm next time. I caught the last bus by the skin of my teeth!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Thursday, 23 July 2009- Following Oshkosh, Forty Thank you’s and Forty Smiles.
Thursday, 23 July 2009- Following Oshkosh, Forty Thank you’s and Forty Smiles.
Today was great! After work I sat on a bus bench and enjoyed the warm sun. I also did some research on UA232.
At one point, on twitter, I typed, “I’m bored.” That evolved into “I’m lazy”, “I’m hungry”, “I’m tired”, and “I’m hot”. I finally got up and walked the two blocks to the library, which I was feeling too lazy to do earlier. I was also hungry, but I decided to postpone eating until I spent a couple hours at the library. I blamed my backwards priorities on the fact that I’m tired, and I was hot because I was wearing 3 layers of shirts.
At the library, I started following the #OSH09 twitter stream. People were already flying into Oshkosh, Wisconsin for the annual AirVenture, and setting up their tents under wing. I got a friend request on Facebook from the owner of MotoArt, how cool is that??!!
On my way to the shelter, I bought two bags of York Peppermint Patties. I couldn’t stop at the storage unit to get my new afghan for lack of time, but I will tomorrow. The wait in line was uneventful. I protected my peppermint patties from the sun and watch as the clouds gathered for rain. I prayed to the wx gods to delay the rain, but in the blink of an eye, it began pouring. The doors of the shelter opened and vacuumed us all in. I guess that’s a good thing, because wet (homeless?) people don’t smell pleasant.
I talked to an interesting lady who I thought was in her 70’s or 80’s. It turned out she was in her mid 50’s. My initial impression was that she had suffered from a stroke or seizures. I didn’t want to ask such a personal question. Her speech was seriously impaired. It was difficult to understand her. When she read my hat that says, “Virginia is for Flying Lovers”, and said “I’ve never been a pilot, but my father was…” she had my undivided attention. I had to make an effort not to be distracted by her involuntary muscle spasms and what I can only describe as reverse chin-ups: She stood with her back to the lockers, reached up over her head and grabbed the edge of the lockers and pulled herself up to her tippy toes like she was stretching her back. When she wasn’t holding herself up like that, she was like a marionette that was being operated by a child. She would bend over at her waist 2 or 3 times a minute and swing her arms and sway or touch the ground. About every third time, she let go of her purse handles when she bent over, and picked it up when she stood up. It made me dizzy at times just to watch Linda’s actions.
I have to be impressed that she can maintain her balance in these robotic poses. She said her dad had been a Brigadier General in the air Force and spent a lot of time at the Pentagon. I asked her if she knew when the Pentagon opened. She said, “Now that’s a piece of history I don’t know, but would like to find out.” I looked it up for her on my Blackberry. We were both surprised to learn that ground had been broken on Sept 11, 1941- 60 years to the day of 9-11. It opened in 1943.
Once inside the shelter, after the meal service was finished I went to (nearly) every lady there and offered a York Peppermint Patty. It made me happy to have my gesture so warmly and enthusiastically accepted. Most of the ladies were very gracious, some asked for a second one. I wish I had more!
Today was great! After work I sat on a bus bench and enjoyed the warm sun. I also did some research on UA232.
At one point, on twitter, I typed, “I’m bored.” That evolved into “I’m lazy”, “I’m hungry”, “I’m tired”, and “I’m hot”. I finally got up and walked the two blocks to the library, which I was feeling too lazy to do earlier. I was also hungry, but I decided to postpone eating until I spent a couple hours at the library. I blamed my backwards priorities on the fact that I’m tired, and I was hot because I was wearing 3 layers of shirts.
At the library, I started following the #OSH09 twitter stream. People were already flying into Oshkosh, Wisconsin for the annual AirVenture, and setting up their tents under wing. I got a friend request on Facebook from the owner of MotoArt, how cool is that??!!
On my way to the shelter, I bought two bags of York Peppermint Patties. I couldn’t stop at the storage unit to get my new afghan for lack of time, but I will tomorrow. The wait in line was uneventful. I protected my peppermint patties from the sun and watch as the clouds gathered for rain. I prayed to the wx gods to delay the rain, but in the blink of an eye, it began pouring. The doors of the shelter opened and vacuumed us all in. I guess that’s a good thing, because wet (homeless?) people don’t smell pleasant.
I talked to an interesting lady who I thought was in her 70’s or 80’s. It turned out she was in her mid 50’s. My initial impression was that she had suffered from a stroke or seizures. I didn’t want to ask such a personal question. Her speech was seriously impaired. It was difficult to understand her. When she read my hat that says, “Virginia is for Flying Lovers”, and said “I’ve never been a pilot, but my father was…” she had my undivided attention. I had to make an effort not to be distracted by her involuntary muscle spasms and what I can only describe as reverse chin-ups: She stood with her back to the lockers, reached up over her head and grabbed the edge of the lockers and pulled herself up to her tippy toes like she was stretching her back. When she wasn’t holding herself up like that, she was like a marionette that was being operated by a child. She would bend over at her waist 2 or 3 times a minute and swing her arms and sway or touch the ground. About every third time, she let go of her purse handles when she bent over, and picked it up when she stood up. It made me dizzy at times just to watch Linda’s actions.
I have to be impressed that she can maintain her balance in these robotic poses. She said her dad had been a Brigadier General in the air Force and spent a lot of time at the Pentagon. I asked her if she knew when the Pentagon opened. She said, “Now that’s a piece of history I don’t know, but would like to find out.” I looked it up for her on my Blackberry. We were both surprised to learn that ground had been broken on Sept 11, 1941- 60 years to the day of 9-11. It opened in 1943.
Once inside the shelter, after the meal service was finished I went to (nearly) every lady there and offered a York Peppermint Patty. It made me happy to have my gesture so warmly and enthusiastically accepted. Most of the ladies were very gracious, some asked for a second one. I wish I had more!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Wednesday, 22 July 2009- Key Words
Wednesday, 22 July 2009- Key Words
Tailspin, Crash-landing hotline, Bounce back, Food stamps, Anxiety attack, Cute bus driver, Dream Pilot…
‘nuf said.
Tailspin, Crash-landing hotline, Bounce back, Food stamps, Anxiety attack, Cute bus driver, Dream Pilot…
‘nuf said.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Tuesday, 21 July 2009- New C-47 Added to my Fleet of Models
Tuesday, 21 July 2009- New C-47 Added to my Fleet of Models
I went back to the museum and bought a C-47 (Military DC-3) and assembled it on the Metro. I also spoke to the volunteer coordinator. After displaying my new model in my storage unit, I went to Taco Bell for lunch.
I went back to the museum and bought a C-47 (Military DC-3) and assembled it on the Metro. I also spoke to the volunteer coordinator. After displaying my new model in my storage unit, I went to Taco Bell for lunch.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Monday, 20 July 2009- Aircraft on my College Park Aviation Museum Afghan
Monday, 20 July 2009- Aircraft on my College Park Aviation Museum Afghan
In an effort to offer sincere congratulations, I congratulated the second winner. I was surprised when this person thanked me, and also chose to follow me. It turned out he didn’t know that it was me, because I sent out a (non-reply) tweet that just gave him a heads up that I am the former foxwhisperer. His reaction/reply was classic! I wasn’t offended one bit, I only indulged in continual laughter for an entire day! How’s this for reading? “Oops that was an accidental follow. Didn’t realize the cursed & disturbing element changed her ID to continue deceiving & annoying folks”. I am sorry he thinks that’s my motive or nature, or that any others think that too. Thanks for the laugh, eh. Irony rocks!
To celebrate, I enjoyed some more of my #warplanes Rock e-Road ice cream. Wouldn’t it be cool if there were crunchy warplanes in it? ;-)
I’ve also begun to promote the College Park Aviation Museum’s AirFair100 on twitter, as well as the book by Jill Rutan Hoffman about her father and uncle, Dick and Burt Rutan, called First Flights. I also bought a beautiful afghan at CGS that depicts eight of its museum display airplanes: the Wright Model B, Bleriot, Gus McLeod’s Stearman, Berliner Helicopter, Piper Cub, Monocoupe, Ercoupe and Curtiss Jenny.
In an effort to offer sincere congratulations, I congratulated the second winner. I was surprised when this person thanked me, and also chose to follow me. It turned out he didn’t know that it was me, because I sent out a (non-reply) tweet that just gave him a heads up that I am the former foxwhisperer. His reaction/reply was classic! I wasn’t offended one bit, I only indulged in continual laughter for an entire day! How’s this for reading? “Oops that was an accidental follow. Didn’t realize the cursed & disturbing element changed her ID to continue deceiving & annoying folks”. I am sorry he thinks that’s my motive or nature, or that any others think that too. Thanks for the laugh, eh. Irony rocks!
To celebrate, I enjoyed some more of my #warplanes Rock e-Road ice cream. Wouldn’t it be cool if there were crunchy warplanes in it? ;-)
I’ve also begun to promote the College Park Aviation Museum’s AirFair100 on twitter, as well as the book by Jill Rutan Hoffman about her father and uncle, Dick and Burt Rutan, called First Flights. I also bought a beautiful afghan at CGS that depicts eight of its museum display airplanes: the Wright Model B, Bleriot, Gus McLeod’s Stearman, Berliner Helicopter, Piper Cub, Monocoupe, Ercoupe and Curtiss Jenny.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Sunday, 19 July 2009- UA232, Kayaking, Winning the Warplanes Contest
Sunday, 19 July 2009- UA232, Kayaking, Winning the Warplanes Contest
Today marks 20 years since United Airlines Flight 232 crashed in Sioux City. Ever since I first heard about it, shortly after deciding I wanted to be a flight attendant, I have held Captain Al Haynes and his crew in the highest esteem. I saw a re-enactment of the crash on TV, Captain Al Haynes spoke briefly, along with Senior Flight Attendant Jan Brown Lohr. They became heroes to me- it became important to me to recognize their accomplishments on this day, and throughout the week on twitter. Although I did get little feedback, I appreciated hearing others express the same respect for the crew of that ill-fated flight.
I went to Seneca Creek State Park and borrowed a kayak. At first, it looked like the bus 61 didn’t run on Sunday, but it does! The first kayak I was given was new and was very unstable. Since I had my new BlackBerry, I was taking a GREAT RISK! A couple layers of Ziploc bags didn’t make me feel anymore secure. I returned to new kayak and requested one more stable. I could tell a huge difference. I didn’t see any turtles this time. I concluded that that made last week’s sighting even more special.
Later tonight, I joined my twitter friends in the third day of attempting to win a model airplane from www.warplanes.com . This time I won! What was laughably ironic was that the second winner for today… HATES MY GUTS!
Today marks 20 years since United Airlines Flight 232 crashed in Sioux City. Ever since I first heard about it, shortly after deciding I wanted to be a flight attendant, I have held Captain Al Haynes and his crew in the highest esteem. I saw a re-enactment of the crash on TV, Captain Al Haynes spoke briefly, along with Senior Flight Attendant Jan Brown Lohr. They became heroes to me- it became important to me to recognize their accomplishments on this day, and throughout the week on twitter. Although I did get little feedback, I appreciated hearing others express the same respect for the crew of that ill-fated flight.
I went to Seneca Creek State Park and borrowed a kayak. At first, it looked like the bus 61 didn’t run on Sunday, but it does! The first kayak I was given was new and was very unstable. Since I had my new BlackBerry, I was taking a GREAT RISK! A couple layers of Ziploc bags didn’t make me feel anymore secure. I returned to new kayak and requested one more stable. I could tell a huge difference. I didn’t see any turtles this time. I concluded that that made last week’s sighting even more special.
Later tonight, I joined my twitter friends in the third day of attempting to win a model airplane from www.warplanes.com . This time I won! What was laughably ironic was that the second winner for today… HATES MY GUTS!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Saturday, 18 July 2009- Walking to DCA from Downtown Washington DC.
Saturday, 18 July 2009- Walking to DCA from Downtown Washington DC.
This morning, after charging my phone at Starbucks, I simply just started walking. I walked down D Street, past the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial. When I stumbled upon Pennsylvania Avenue, I decided this was the perfect time for me to see the White House for the first time. After seeing the White House, I saw a sign indicating the direction of the Tidal Basin and the Jefferson Memorial. It intrigued me enough that I decided to check it out. The Tidal Basin had a distinct fishy smell. Near the memorial, I saw bikers and walkers emerging from what certainly looked like a pathway over the river.
I kept walking and soon found myself on the footpath of the bridge over the Potomac River. I stopped for 10 minutes and took pictures of the planes flying over the bridge. This was a historic moment: I crossed a state boundary on foot. I then walked to Gravelly Point where I took many more pictures. I continued my walk to DCA and had a Cinnabon.
Finally, I went to the College Park airport. I enjoyed their Pilot Day activities and looking at exhibits. Then I walked over to the aircraft restoration facility and enjoyed meeting an older retired Eastern Airlines pilot and his friends. They showed me the Aeronca they were restoring, as well as a Pusher.
This morning, after charging my phone at Starbucks, I simply just started walking. I walked down D Street, past the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial. When I stumbled upon Pennsylvania Avenue, I decided this was the perfect time for me to see the White House for the first time. After seeing the White House, I saw a sign indicating the direction of the Tidal Basin and the Jefferson Memorial. It intrigued me enough that I decided to check it out. The Tidal Basin had a distinct fishy smell. Near the memorial, I saw bikers and walkers emerging from what certainly looked like a pathway over the river.
I kept walking and soon found myself on the footpath of the bridge over the Potomac River. I stopped for 10 minutes and took pictures of the planes flying over the bridge. This was a historic moment: I crossed a state boundary on foot. I then walked to Gravelly Point where I took many more pictures. I continued my walk to DCA and had a Cinnabon.
Finally, I went to the College Park airport. I enjoyed their Pilot Day activities and looking at exhibits. Then I walked over to the aircraft restoration facility and enjoyed meeting an older retired Eastern Airlines pilot and his friends. They showed me the Aeronca they were restoring, as well as a Pusher.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Tuesday, 14 July 2009- Mental Breakdown
Tuesday, 14 July 2009- Mental Breakdown
I had a mental breakdown today. The trigger was the news I got of a hole that depressurized a Southwest Airlines jet. The reason this is the suspected trigger is because I had no access any more information than that. I had expected it to have happened either shortly after takeoff, or shortly before landing, because there had been no hint of serious injuries that could have likely occurred in any degree of a rapid decompression at cruise altitude. Also I didn’t know where on the fuselage (assuming it was on the fuselage) the hole occurred, could it have been the cockpit or the passenger cabin, or some portion of the aircraft not accessed by people. Each of these scenarios played out in my head. All I could do was obsessively speculate through the middle of the night on the story behind the headline I read.
The other, probably more significant reason I suspect that this incident was the trigger, is because it literally brought back from the dead the dream I had of becoming a flight attendant or working for the airlines. Incidents like this always reignite my desire to be on the frontline, reassuring a cabin full of passengers, and preparing them all for a safe return back to earth, in the event of such an incident. I had to bury the dream again.
Put simply when I was walking to the second building, I was crying my eyes out. I lay face down in the grass and concluded that no one would know if I just stayed here and let the tears run out over the next couple hours, or I could just walk off my post and leave this job for good. Fortunately I had the good sense to call Chris who was working over at Medimmune. He came right over and listened to me and consoled me. I was able to return to duty in fair condition.
I had a mental breakdown today. The trigger was the news I got of a hole that depressurized a Southwest Airlines jet. The reason this is the suspected trigger is because I had no access any more information than that. I had expected it to have happened either shortly after takeoff, or shortly before landing, because there had been no hint of serious injuries that could have likely occurred in any degree of a rapid decompression at cruise altitude. Also I didn’t know where on the fuselage (assuming it was on the fuselage) the hole occurred, could it have been the cockpit or the passenger cabin, or some portion of the aircraft not accessed by people. Each of these scenarios played out in my head. All I could do was obsessively speculate through the middle of the night on the story behind the headline I read.
The other, probably more significant reason I suspect that this incident was the trigger, is because it literally brought back from the dead the dream I had of becoming a flight attendant or working for the airlines. Incidents like this always reignite my desire to be on the frontline, reassuring a cabin full of passengers, and preparing them all for a safe return back to earth, in the event of such an incident. I had to bury the dream again.
Put simply when I was walking to the second building, I was crying my eyes out. I lay face down in the grass and concluded that no one would know if I just stayed here and let the tears run out over the next couple hours, or I could just walk off my post and leave this job for good. Fortunately I had the good sense to call Chris who was working over at Medimmune. He came right over and listened to me and consoled me. I was able to return to duty in fair condition.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Saturday, 11 July 2009- The Third Annual Pilot Appreciation Day
Saturday, 11 July 2009- The Third Annual Pilot Appreciation Day
I spent nearly the whole day wishing twitter and Facebook pilots a happy “Pilot Appreciation Day”. I was disappointed with my uninteractive delivery of the greetings which stemmed from my lack of being online continually. In addition to that, I was still mourning the death of a three year old dream that I recently buried six feet under. I received some positive feedback from some of the pilots, so the third annual Pilot Appreciation Day wasn’t a complete disaster.
I spent nearly the whole day wishing twitter and Facebook pilots a happy “Pilot Appreciation Day”. I was disappointed with my uninteractive delivery of the greetings which stemmed from my lack of being online continually. In addition to that, I was still mourning the death of a three year old dream that I recently buried six feet under. I received some positive feedback from some of the pilots, so the third annual Pilot Appreciation Day wasn’t a complete disaster.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Friday, 10 July 2009- Staring Contest With A Red-Eared Slider and Trouble Because I Stripped (the Bed)
Friday, 10 July 2009- Staring Contest With A Red-Eared Slider and Trouble Because I Stripped (the Bed)
When I arose this morning, someone walking by my bed told me to strip the blanket and sheet and put them in the dirty laundry pile. I then went on my merry way to Germantown.
It was a beautiful day outside, and I wasn’t packing that much with me, so I decided to visit Clopper Lake. I anticipated taking the kayak out on the lake for 2 hours, but one hour ended up being long enough. I was even treated to a special bonus as I explored a random cove. From a distance of about 50 feet, I spotted a turtle sunning itself on a log. I thought it might be one of those Mississippi Mud Turtles (why, I don’t know, except I didn’t know what the native species were). I stopped the kayak and slowly paddled near the turtle. As I neared it, it looked more and more like a red-eared slider. With some careful periodic paddling, I was able to drift within 10 feet of the turtle. I was awed when I confirmed it was indeed a red-eared slider.
It was likely planted there by an owner who could no longer care for it. I’m sure a wild turtle wouldn’t have let me get this close, no matter how careful I was. We had a staring contest for about 20 minutes. Then the turtle slid into the water when the kayak drifted so that the tip came within 6 inches it. I definitely miss my little guys, this turtle was full sized, and weighed at least 10 lbs. Of all my turtles’ names, I decided to name this one in the memory of Captain Jupiter.
After returning the kayak, I headed to the shelter. I ate a Lunchable and drank a Red Bull while standing in line on the sidewalk for Intake. I couldn’t help but feel stared at and judged by all the passersby. Riff Raff. I learned earlier today that that is what Sir Richard Branson wanted to call the Economy Class of his Virgin Airlines brand. I LOL’ed upon learning that.
When I got inside the shelter, I noted that the staff was in a light hearted mood. None of the clients were causing trouble. This time the potato concoction was cold. I had dinner next to a lady who had an animal companion, a tiny dog, slightly bigger than a Chihuahua. She was a nice lady and friends with a former US Army soldier also named Lee, who slept in the bunk next to the one I would be assigned for a second night. I didn’t have to wait long for word on whether I had a bed. The same lady was on work release, so again, her bed was available. I did get in trouble for stripping the bed. I tried to explain that someone instructed me to do it, with a voice of authority. I felt very intimidated by the scolding, but was told they’d let me off easy this time because I was new to the program, and that only the staff member behind the desk has the authority to tell me what to do with my bedding.
I had a nice conversation with Lee and found out she always wears “Life is Good” shirts, and goes to the VA every day. She had joined the Army during peace-time, just 6 months after the end of the Vietnam War and was stationed at Fort Benning, GA. As we chatted, I told her about my kayak ride and was about to invite her to join me sometime, but she said she wasn’t an outdoorsy type of person.
I began to hear Brendan Frasier’s voice in my head and realized that some of the ladies at the shelter were watching The Mummy Returns. I decided to join them, but the picture quality was so bad on the TV, it took away from any enjoyment of the movie I might have had. Instead, I called Marty and began to enjoy a pleasant conversation with him, until T-Mobile called. I had business to attend to, so I had to take the call.
The T-Mobile rep set up a replacement phone order for me and verified it could be received by the UPS store. Soon I will have a Blackberry again! I’m grateful that T-Mobile valued my 6 years as a loyal customer enough to give it a second try, I had only called to find out how much I was going to owe for not turning in the old phone.
I called Marty back and let him have the last of my battery juice. Charging cell phones isn’t allowed at the shelter, so I went to bed.
When I arose this morning, someone walking by my bed told me to strip the blanket and sheet and put them in the dirty laundry pile. I then went on my merry way to Germantown.
It was a beautiful day outside, and I wasn’t packing that much with me, so I decided to visit Clopper Lake. I anticipated taking the kayak out on the lake for 2 hours, but one hour ended up being long enough. I was even treated to a special bonus as I explored a random cove. From a distance of about 50 feet, I spotted a turtle sunning itself on a log. I thought it might be one of those Mississippi Mud Turtles (why, I don’t know, except I didn’t know what the native species were). I stopped the kayak and slowly paddled near the turtle. As I neared it, it looked more and more like a red-eared slider. With some careful periodic paddling, I was able to drift within 10 feet of the turtle. I was awed when I confirmed it was indeed a red-eared slider.
It was likely planted there by an owner who could no longer care for it. I’m sure a wild turtle wouldn’t have let me get this close, no matter how careful I was. We had a staring contest for about 20 minutes. Then the turtle slid into the water when the kayak drifted so that the tip came within 6 inches it. I definitely miss my little guys, this turtle was full sized, and weighed at least 10 lbs. Of all my turtles’ names, I decided to name this one in the memory of Captain Jupiter.
After returning the kayak, I headed to the shelter. I ate a Lunchable and drank a Red Bull while standing in line on the sidewalk for Intake. I couldn’t help but feel stared at and judged by all the passersby. Riff Raff. I learned earlier today that that is what Sir Richard Branson wanted to call the Economy Class of his Virgin Airlines brand. I LOL’ed upon learning that.
When I got inside the shelter, I noted that the staff was in a light hearted mood. None of the clients were causing trouble. This time the potato concoction was cold. I had dinner next to a lady who had an animal companion, a tiny dog, slightly bigger than a Chihuahua. She was a nice lady and friends with a former US Army soldier also named Lee, who slept in the bunk next to the one I would be assigned for a second night. I didn’t have to wait long for word on whether I had a bed. The same lady was on work release, so again, her bed was available. I did get in trouble for stripping the bed. I tried to explain that someone instructed me to do it, with a voice of authority. I felt very intimidated by the scolding, but was told they’d let me off easy this time because I was new to the program, and that only the staff member behind the desk has the authority to tell me what to do with my bedding.
I had a nice conversation with Lee and found out she always wears “Life is Good” shirts, and goes to the VA every day. She had joined the Army during peace-time, just 6 months after the end of the Vietnam War and was stationed at Fort Benning, GA. As we chatted, I told her about my kayak ride and was about to invite her to join me sometime, but she said she wasn’t an outdoorsy type of person.
I began to hear Brendan Frasier’s voice in my head and realized that some of the ladies at the shelter were watching The Mummy Returns. I decided to join them, but the picture quality was so bad on the TV, it took away from any enjoyment of the movie I might have had. Instead, I called Marty and began to enjoy a pleasant conversation with him, until T-Mobile called. I had business to attend to, so I had to take the call.
The T-Mobile rep set up a replacement phone order for me and verified it could be received by the UPS store. Soon I will have a Blackberry again! I’m grateful that T-Mobile valued my 6 years as a loyal customer enough to give it a second try, I had only called to find out how much I was going to owe for not turning in the old phone.
I called Marty back and let him have the last of my battery juice. Charging cell phones isn’t allowed at the shelter, so I went to bed.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Thursday, 9 July 2009- The John Young Center for Homeless Women
Thursday, 9 July 2009- The John Young Center for Homeless Women
One of my former managers at Taco Bell had offered his place as a crash pad for tonight. He had just moved there and didn’t forsee a clause in the contract he had signed yesterday calling for no overnight guests for the first 30 days. I think that was because the first 30 could be considered a probationary period. I went to the Germantown Police Department to seek direction to find shelter because I don’t want to get into trouble for sleeping in the wrong place. I joked with Carolyn that when I got to the PD, I was tempted to introduce myself and say I was there to turn myself in, in case there was a reason for me to. Better judgment called for me to scrap the humorous approach.
When I talked to the officer at the front desk (window), she said, “Maybe Social Services at the County Building can help”. I was amused by her uncertainty, but went there anyway. Social Services referred me to the Crisis Center, which had appeared to be a dead end when approached with a phone call. Social Services advised, “Don’t call, just go.” So I went. I felt like I was on a quest for a wild goose, but I went anyway.
To my relief, when I arrived at the Crisis Center and explained my need for shelter two nights a week, she had me talk to a counselor. The counselor filled out my application for me during the interview. I was really amused when asked to describe my mood right now. I said with conviction, “I am at peace with myself”. She was impressed. She gave me several referrals to shelters, I chose one in the District of Columbia that was near the Judiciary Square Metro Center. I left all of my valuables at the storage unit, and began the trip. The wild goose I was chasing bore a golden egg.
I got to the John Young Center just in time for the intake process. I talked to a very religious minded laid off nurse who stood next to me in line. She was a nice lady. I had a delicious concoction of vegetables such as squash, zucchini, potato, yam, tomato etc… The big news, and the source of the biggest crises at the shelter that night, was that a group from Indiana had included in their visit to DC, a service project to clean the shelter. Several clients had failed to comply with the shelter policy to take all personal items with them that morning, (for personal belongings left behind were subject to being thrown away). Those clients arrived tonight with the reality of having lost bed sheets, magazines, and some valuables. It was interesting to see the power struggles between the clients and staff. I maintained a polite demeanor in my interaction with staff and clients as I waited for word on whether there would be a bed available for the night. To my good fortune, the staff was able to secure a temporary bed for me. I thanked them with much gratitude, took a shower, and went sleep. Relief!
On a side note, I thought about buying a ticket to Salt Lake City for a group interview for flight attendants, and encouraged by my key twitter friends, looked into prices. After much introspection, I realized that the prices plus my current circumstances weren’t the best spring board for me to use to get a job as a flight attendant.
One of my former managers at Taco Bell had offered his place as a crash pad for tonight. He had just moved there and didn’t forsee a clause in the contract he had signed yesterday calling for no overnight guests for the first 30 days. I think that was because the first 30 could be considered a probationary period. I went to the Germantown Police Department to seek direction to find shelter because I don’t want to get into trouble for sleeping in the wrong place. I joked with Carolyn that when I got to the PD, I was tempted to introduce myself and say I was there to turn myself in, in case there was a reason for me to. Better judgment called for me to scrap the humorous approach.
When I talked to the officer at the front desk (window), she said, “Maybe Social Services at the County Building can help”. I was amused by her uncertainty, but went there anyway. Social Services referred me to the Crisis Center, which had appeared to be a dead end when approached with a phone call. Social Services advised, “Don’t call, just go.” So I went. I felt like I was on a quest for a wild goose, but I went anyway.
To my relief, when I arrived at the Crisis Center and explained my need for shelter two nights a week, she had me talk to a counselor. The counselor filled out my application for me during the interview. I was really amused when asked to describe my mood right now. I said with conviction, “I am at peace with myself”. She was impressed. She gave me several referrals to shelters, I chose one in the District of Columbia that was near the Judiciary Square Metro Center. I left all of my valuables at the storage unit, and began the trip. The wild goose I was chasing bore a golden egg.
I got to the John Young Center just in time for the intake process. I talked to a very religious minded laid off nurse who stood next to me in line. She was a nice lady. I had a delicious concoction of vegetables such as squash, zucchini, potato, yam, tomato etc… The big news, and the source of the biggest crises at the shelter that night, was that a group from Indiana had included in their visit to DC, a service project to clean the shelter. Several clients had failed to comply with the shelter policy to take all personal items with them that morning, (for personal belongings left behind were subject to being thrown away). Those clients arrived tonight with the reality of having lost bed sheets, magazines, and some valuables. It was interesting to see the power struggles between the clients and staff. I maintained a polite demeanor in my interaction with staff and clients as I waited for word on whether there would be a bed available for the night. To my good fortune, the staff was able to secure a temporary bed for me. I thanked them with much gratitude, took a shower, and went sleep. Relief!
On a side note, I thought about buying a ticket to Salt Lake City for a group interview for flight attendants, and encouraged by my key twitter friends, looked into prices. After much introspection, I realized that the prices plus my current circumstances weren’t the best spring board for me to use to get a job as a flight attendant.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Wednesday, 8 July 2009- A Return to a Sense of Normalcy, Plus the Rise of Math Geek
Wednesday, 8 July 2009- A Return to a Sense of Normalcy, Plus the Rise of Math Geek
Today was an overall good day. I got the good news that my gift for Paul’s new daughter was received. I took a bus to Silver Spring and had lunch at the Panera there. My internet experience was pretty weak. They only had 3 power outlets and I had come in the middle of the lunch rush. Carolyn suggested that I carry a multiple outlet adapter, so I can share the power. Good idea!
I started a favorite math venture on twitter after drinking a Red Bull at work. It involved using the same five digits: 3, 4, 5, 7, and 9 and any combination of operations: + , - , *, / , using associative and distributive properties, to make the digits equal 1, 2, 3…. Consecutively to as high as possible. I got as far as 62. I found it ironic that I was stumped on 63, because of the 7 and the 9. While some twitter followers validated my project, the Savvy Navigator didn’t seem to, LOL. He was glad when I stopped.
Today was an overall good day. I got the good news that my gift for Paul’s new daughter was received. I took a bus to Silver Spring and had lunch at the Panera there. My internet experience was pretty weak. They only had 3 power outlets and I had come in the middle of the lunch rush. Carolyn suggested that I carry a multiple outlet adapter, so I can share the power. Good idea!
I started a favorite math venture on twitter after drinking a Red Bull at work. It involved using the same five digits: 3, 4, 5, 7, and 9 and any combination of operations: + , - , *, / , using associative and distributive properties, to make the digits equal 1, 2, 3…. Consecutively to as high as possible. I got as far as 62. I found it ironic that I was stumped on 63, because of the 7 and the 9. While some twitter followers validated my project, the Savvy Navigator didn’t seem to, LOL. He was glad when I stopped.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Tuesday, 7 July 2009- Reconciliation
Tuesday, 7 July 2009- Reconciliation
I am happy to say that today I reconciled with one of my key twitter friends. Glad that this twitter connection was no longer strained, I fixed my following list to include him. I was also comforted by his take on the rumor I read.
An e-mail from a Pinnacle pilot assured me we were on good terms. That was important to me. Another pilot out of south Wisconsin, who had invited me to fly with him if I was ever in the area, also wondered why we weren’t following each other. I told him I was in the middle of a mess, but glad he chose to add me back.
Later in the afternoon, I took note that my heart didn’t weigh heavy as lead, and the fact that I had reconnected with key people made all seem right with the world. Another significant change that occurred was the return of the emoticon . During this insane period of a few days, I had to keep telling myself that everything happens for a reason. The words of a Friend also saved me additional heartache: You should always trust yourself…
I am happy to say that today I reconciled with one of my key twitter friends. Glad that this twitter connection was no longer strained, I fixed my following list to include him. I was also comforted by his take on the rumor I read.
An e-mail from a Pinnacle pilot assured me we were on good terms. That was important to me. Another pilot out of south Wisconsin, who had invited me to fly with him if I was ever in the area, also wondered why we weren’t following each other. I told him I was in the middle of a mess, but glad he chose to add me back.
Later in the afternoon, I took note that my heart didn’t weigh heavy as lead, and the fact that I had reconnected with key people made all seem right with the world. Another significant change that occurred was the return of the emoticon . During this insane period of a few days, I had to keep telling myself that everything happens for a reason. The words of a Friend also saved me additional heartache: You should always trust yourself…
Monday, July 6, 2009
Monday, 6 July 2009- Twitter Catastrophe
Monday, 6 July 2009- Twitter Catastrophe
Shortly after my shift ended, I received a text message welcoming me back to twitter. I thought it strange because I hadn’t activated my profile. It didn’t turn out to be Carolyn, who had stepped up after the FnF incident and recreated a profile for me to come home to when I was ready. I became even more alarmed as I read comments made by some twitter friends who, ironically, I didn’t want to leave high and dry, and therefore sought out yesterday on Facebook and issued a friend request to bridge the gap. I had also made the mistake of using this transition time to change my name to Lee which I had been mulling over in my head for a few weeks but never suggested over the twitter stream, so I can see how it may have appeared as a red flag to those that I invited. One of my twitter friends that I conversed with on a daily basis had made a comment that shortly after he accepted my friend request, I called and left a message. This disturbed another key twitter friend who trusted me, who then made a comment that he would ignore my friend request. Reading these comments devastated me. I feared that someone was trying to hurt me. The possibility that the phone call and text message were from the same person, alarmed me to no end. Other twitter friends removed me from their Facebook friends as well. I went into shock and serious panic. I couldn’t believe that all these people who trusted me, and who I trusted back, now no longer trusted me. I felt extreme embarrassment. Other individuals that I sent friend requests to did accept my friend request. I seriously felt it was my responsibility to send them a message asking them to reconsider friending me as I had a questionable reputation and was a threat to his security, especially those with connections to those I have offended. I knew that was irrational thinking…
In this devastated state of mind, I called Carolyn and she comforted me. I reactivated my twitter profile, and simply said “I am confused”. I made comments to two of my twitter friends who were most disturbed by my sudden disappearance from twitter and equally sudden emergence into their facebook worlds under a new name. I was welcomed back by another one, but being hurt and confused, asked what was up with the rumors. I was hurt by his doubt in me, but also wanted to protect him from any attacks by being associated with me- remember, the bottom line I was confused. He mentioned Gimli’s informing those interested, of the circumstances surrounding FnF’s last words to me. I then whittled my 200 followers down to 20. I let go those that I didn’t converse with much, as well as those that I enjoyed tweeting with a lot, but shared friends in common with those who doubted me. I hoped those might choose to follow me back. I felt like 20 was still too many.
Comforting was when a student pilot friend in Europe asked me not to remove him. He said he enjoyed my tweets and admired my enthusiasm in wanting to work for the airlines. Enthusiasm isn’t enough. I told this friend that I had a dug a hold six feet deep and buried my dream of becoming a flight attendant or working for an airline in it, and therefore be prepared for a less interesting twitter stream from me. Again, thoughts of the text message and mystery caller claiming to be me, was disconcerting. I felt like I had a price on my head.
These are some thoughts I tweeted while I was riding the bus to work:
“When I slept in a homeless shelter four years ago, I could walk the streets with my head held high. I helped out my fellow homeless neighbors, tied quilts and made tote bags (from airplane seat covers donated by Delta, LOL) for a church service project, and held a part time job. Now it seems every other gesture of kindness that I proffer, fails, though some haven’t. I have been more selfish this time, constantly dodging attacks from an invisible enemy bent on hurting me. Whether it’s Jackie or Jeremy, or Akbar, I don’t know. I stopped caring. A large part of my troubles were aggravated further by my reactions to these guerrilla attacks. The only mystery I want to solve is who used my phone number to associate with their profile? Four years ago, choosing to sleep in a homeless shelter was one of the best actions I could take for my circumstances. Back then, I was alone, supported only by my belief in God. Now I stumble around with my head bowed in the shame of failing many.”
I also want to thank Elliott for calling me back and offering friendship and advice, and Marty who invited me to reach out to him if I needed to talk.
Shortly after my shift ended, I received a text message welcoming me back to twitter. I thought it strange because I hadn’t activated my profile. It didn’t turn out to be Carolyn, who had stepped up after the FnF incident and recreated a profile for me to come home to when I was ready. I became even more alarmed as I read comments made by some twitter friends who, ironically, I didn’t want to leave high and dry, and therefore sought out yesterday on Facebook and issued a friend request to bridge the gap. I had also made the mistake of using this transition time to change my name to Lee which I had been mulling over in my head for a few weeks but never suggested over the twitter stream, so I can see how it may have appeared as a red flag to those that I invited. One of my twitter friends that I conversed with on a daily basis had made a comment that shortly after he accepted my friend request, I called and left a message. This disturbed another key twitter friend who trusted me, who then made a comment that he would ignore my friend request. Reading these comments devastated me. I feared that someone was trying to hurt me. The possibility that the phone call and text message were from the same person, alarmed me to no end. Other twitter friends removed me from their Facebook friends as well. I went into shock and serious panic. I couldn’t believe that all these people who trusted me, and who I trusted back, now no longer trusted me. I felt extreme embarrassment. Other individuals that I sent friend requests to did accept my friend request. I seriously felt it was my responsibility to send them a message asking them to reconsider friending me as I had a questionable reputation and was a threat to his security, especially those with connections to those I have offended. I knew that was irrational thinking…
In this devastated state of mind, I called Carolyn and she comforted me. I reactivated my twitter profile, and simply said “I am confused”. I made comments to two of my twitter friends who were most disturbed by my sudden disappearance from twitter and equally sudden emergence into their facebook worlds under a new name. I was welcomed back by another one, but being hurt and confused, asked what was up with the rumors. I was hurt by his doubt in me, but also wanted to protect him from any attacks by being associated with me- remember, the bottom line I was confused. He mentioned Gimli’s informing those interested, of the circumstances surrounding FnF’s last words to me. I then whittled my 200 followers down to 20. I let go those that I didn’t converse with much, as well as those that I enjoyed tweeting with a lot, but shared friends in common with those who doubted me. I hoped those might choose to follow me back. I felt like 20 was still too many.
Comforting was when a student pilot friend in Europe asked me not to remove him. He said he enjoyed my tweets and admired my enthusiasm in wanting to work for the airlines. Enthusiasm isn’t enough. I told this friend that I had a dug a hold six feet deep and buried my dream of becoming a flight attendant or working for an airline in it, and therefore be prepared for a less interesting twitter stream from me. Again, thoughts of the text message and mystery caller claiming to be me, was disconcerting. I felt like I had a price on my head.
These are some thoughts I tweeted while I was riding the bus to work:
“When I slept in a homeless shelter four years ago, I could walk the streets with my head held high. I helped out my fellow homeless neighbors, tied quilts and made tote bags (from airplane seat covers donated by Delta, LOL) for a church service project, and held a part time job. Now it seems every other gesture of kindness that I proffer, fails, though some haven’t. I have been more selfish this time, constantly dodging attacks from an invisible enemy bent on hurting me. Whether it’s Jackie or Jeremy, or Akbar, I don’t know. I stopped caring. A large part of my troubles were aggravated further by my reactions to these guerrilla attacks. The only mystery I want to solve is who used my phone number to associate with their profile? Four years ago, choosing to sleep in a homeless shelter was one of the best actions I could take for my circumstances. Back then, I was alone, supported only by my belief in God. Now I stumble around with my head bowed in the shame of failing many.”
I also want to thank Elliott for calling me back and offering friendship and advice, and Marty who invited me to reach out to him if I needed to talk.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Saturday, 4 July 2009- BWI Scare is Catalyst for Leaving Twitter
Saturday, 4 July 2009- BWI Scare is Catalyst for Leaving Twitter
I saw an airport employee who had on a previous date given me permission to sleep in the Observation Deck. I asked if I could again sleep there, I told him I had been in Baltimore for the day and was heading back to Germantown in the morning. I thought I had gained legitimate permission to sleep there again after talking to him tonight. But an hour after entering, I received a rude awakening from the airport police. They grilled me on my business at BWI, I explained it exactly as I had to the other airport employee, but under duress. I was still waking up and getting my bearings. In the end they asked to see my ID, rather, demanded it. I put on my glasses first- that was the other problem, it was dark and I couldn’t see. They called in my name. Then they asked what I call the fatal question- if I was homeless. I said yes. I tried to explain that I was only homeless two nights a week. I never felt so intimidated by police, not even when I had the hot car incident. They didn’t tell me directly that this was a warning, but I took it as such.
I won’t step foot at BWI unless I have a flight or am meeting friends. I couldn’t sleep for an hour after that. To make things worse, the bus doesn’t pick up until 9:40 on a holiday schedule. I am officially gun-shy of airports. I don’t want to risk a trespass charge. That would totally ruin any chance or desire I would have left of working at the airport or for an airline. This incident was also a catalyst for me closing my twitter account later in the day, on top of starting to feel depressed and extremely embarrassed. Twitter was a big contributor to my depression. I followed about a dozen or more flight attendant friends, who when they got together complained about their job, and I felt like I could never belong to such an exclusive group- was I trying to fool myself? In addition to this, I received the bad news that any prospect of moving to HOU was shot, largely in part thanks to this “Roger” who called and sabotaged my opportunity, and also thanks to the economy, the business I was going to work for would be put on the market very soon.
I really wanted to simplify, and these speed bumps presented an opportunity to reorganize my plans. Alaska was beckoning me, although after much research, I learned it wasn’t the untamed last frontier that I grew up thinking of it as. I became all the more discouraged after city after city’s Chamber of Commerce website made the prospect of successful relocation at this time extremely bad. I was pleading for any twitter soul to call me, and was to the point of streaming tears at Panera, and couldn’t wait. I was aware of a physiological factor that was aggravating my depression, but couldn’t compartmentalize it as the sole factor. Feeling overwhelmed, I quit twitter with no notice to anyone.
Carolyn called me before her shift started. She told me her neighborhood fireworks celebration got off to a bad start when a group of people were struck by lightning. The lightning left one fatality, and she had to write a report because it occurred on her watch. Yikes. It makes you reflect and think about your lifetime some. I am sure I am going to live to be at least 80, and I hope not much longer after that. I don’t want to spend twenty years thereafter holed up in a senior citizen’s center. Right now I am truly living- having experiences most will never have with an attitude about it that gives a greater insight into the meaning of life. Jackie and Jeremy’s critical and judgmental opinion of me is shortsighted and insignificant to my life-choices and lifestyle.
Free of twitter for the evening, I listened to aviation podcasts on my shift and organized photos on my laptop.
I saw an airport employee who had on a previous date given me permission to sleep in the Observation Deck. I asked if I could again sleep there, I told him I had been in Baltimore for the day and was heading back to Germantown in the morning. I thought I had gained legitimate permission to sleep there again after talking to him tonight. But an hour after entering, I received a rude awakening from the airport police. They grilled me on my business at BWI, I explained it exactly as I had to the other airport employee, but under duress. I was still waking up and getting my bearings. In the end they asked to see my ID, rather, demanded it. I put on my glasses first- that was the other problem, it was dark and I couldn’t see. They called in my name. Then they asked what I call the fatal question- if I was homeless. I said yes. I tried to explain that I was only homeless two nights a week. I never felt so intimidated by police, not even when I had the hot car incident. They didn’t tell me directly that this was a warning, but I took it as such.
I won’t step foot at BWI unless I have a flight or am meeting friends. I couldn’t sleep for an hour after that. To make things worse, the bus doesn’t pick up until 9:40 on a holiday schedule. I am officially gun-shy of airports. I don’t want to risk a trespass charge. That would totally ruin any chance or desire I would have left of working at the airport or for an airline. This incident was also a catalyst for me closing my twitter account later in the day, on top of starting to feel depressed and extremely embarrassed. Twitter was a big contributor to my depression. I followed about a dozen or more flight attendant friends, who when they got together complained about their job, and I felt like I could never belong to such an exclusive group- was I trying to fool myself? In addition to this, I received the bad news that any prospect of moving to HOU was shot, largely in part thanks to this “Roger” who called and sabotaged my opportunity, and also thanks to the economy, the business I was going to work for would be put on the market very soon.
I really wanted to simplify, and these speed bumps presented an opportunity to reorganize my plans. Alaska was beckoning me, although after much research, I learned it wasn’t the untamed last frontier that I grew up thinking of it as. I became all the more discouraged after city after city’s Chamber of Commerce website made the prospect of successful relocation at this time extremely bad. I was pleading for any twitter soul to call me, and was to the point of streaming tears at Panera, and couldn’t wait. I was aware of a physiological factor that was aggravating my depression, but couldn’t compartmentalize it as the sole factor. Feeling overwhelmed, I quit twitter with no notice to anyone.
Carolyn called me before her shift started. She told me her neighborhood fireworks celebration got off to a bad start when a group of people were struck by lightning. The lightning left one fatality, and she had to write a report because it occurred on her watch. Yikes. It makes you reflect and think about your lifetime some. I am sure I am going to live to be at least 80, and I hope not much longer after that. I don’t want to spend twenty years thereafter holed up in a senior citizen’s center. Right now I am truly living- having experiences most will never have with an attitude about it that gives a greater insight into the meaning of life. Jackie and Jeremy’s critical and judgmental opinion of me is shortsighted and insignificant to my life-choices and lifestyle.
Free of twitter for the evening, I listened to aviation podcasts on my shift and organized photos on my laptop.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Friday, 3 July 2009- Crab Feast and Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
Friday, 3 July 2009- Crab Feast and Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
I got to DCA at midnight and set up in a corner of the old terminal near the picture window. The big white a on the tail of a 737 haunted me, but I ended up sleeping well, and remained there until noon, twittering away personalized Follow Friday’s.
I then took the Metro to Greenbelt and the express bus to BWI. I then went directly to the Light Rail and took the train to the Convention Center stop and walked to the Inner Harbor. While walking down Pratt Street, there was a sudden sound of crashing metal to my immediate left. I don’t remember hearing squealing tires, but less than 20 feet away, one car had rear-ended another.
When I got to the Inner Harbor, I saw no sign of crab, but I found the Water Taxi. The cost was $9 rides all day. The attendant recommended Captain James’ Crab Deck as a good place to eat crab. I liked the name immediately. On the way, I saw beautiful and expensive boats. These nautical beasts bore every kind of name. Ooga Booga and Soggy Dollar were my favorites.
Upon arriving at Captain James’ Crab Deck, I was scared by the prices- $36 for a dozen medium crabs. When I learned I could buy half a dozen, I went ahead and sat down to order. I made the mistake of ordering fries, but a smart move ordering corn. I could have shared this feast, and therefore split the cost, and two people would have been sufficiently fed. With a Heineken, my bill came to $32 plus a generous $6 tip. I made it back to BWI near 11pm.
I got to DCA at midnight and set up in a corner of the old terminal near the picture window. The big white a on the tail of a 737 haunted me, but I ended up sleeping well, and remained there until noon, twittering away personalized Follow Friday’s.
I then took the Metro to Greenbelt and the express bus to BWI. I then went directly to the Light Rail and took the train to the Convention Center stop and walked to the Inner Harbor. While walking down Pratt Street, there was a sudden sound of crashing metal to my immediate left. I don’t remember hearing squealing tires, but less than 20 feet away, one car had rear-ended another.
When I got to the Inner Harbor, I saw no sign of crab, but I found the Water Taxi. The cost was $9 rides all day. The attendant recommended Captain James’ Crab Deck as a good place to eat crab. I liked the name immediately. On the way, I saw beautiful and expensive boats. These nautical beasts bore every kind of name. Ooga Booga and Soggy Dollar were my favorites.
Upon arriving at Captain James’ Crab Deck, I was scared by the prices- $36 for a dozen medium crabs. When I learned I could buy half a dozen, I went ahead and sat down to order. I made the mistake of ordering fries, but a smart move ordering corn. I could have shared this feast, and therefore split the cost, and two people would have been sufficiently fed. With a Heineken, my bill came to $32 plus a generous $6 tip. I made it back to BWI near 11pm.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Thursday, 2 July 2009- It’s Almost Like Day Camping
Thursday, 2 July 2009- It’s Almost Like Day Camping
After work, I returned to Seneca Creek and Clopper Lake. I stretched out my sleeping mat in the same area that I found yesterday. This time, I had ants invading my space, or perhaps more accurately, I was invading their space. It made it difficult to sleep. I was in the mood to go to a new place for dinner so I sent out a tweet which was answered by the Savvy Navigator. He recommended Ben’s Chili Bowl. Another reason I wanted to eat somewhere other than TGI Fridays was that it began closing at 8:30 pm. It was already getting late. I went to the storage unit to get my laptop and then headed to the U Street Metro Station for dinner. I had a half smoke (Bill Cosby’s favorite).
Afterwards, I looked for a bar. I picked Solly’s. They didn’t have Blue Moon in a bottle or any other form. When I asked what was available in a bottle, the bartender pointed to a dark corner 15 feet above me and about 30 feet away per my line of sight and walked away. He wasn’t gaining any points in my book as a new user friendly bartender. It made me wish I was at BWI’s bar. That bartender, I think Jeff was his name, was nice and social. I decided upon a Guinness that wound up being Draught- not as good as Stout.
After work, I returned to Seneca Creek and Clopper Lake. I stretched out my sleeping mat in the same area that I found yesterday. This time, I had ants invading my space, or perhaps more accurately, I was invading their space. It made it difficult to sleep. I was in the mood to go to a new place for dinner so I sent out a tweet which was answered by the Savvy Navigator. He recommended Ben’s Chili Bowl. Another reason I wanted to eat somewhere other than TGI Fridays was that it began closing at 8:30 pm. It was already getting late. I went to the storage unit to get my laptop and then headed to the U Street Metro Station for dinner. I had a half smoke (Bill Cosby’s favorite).
Afterwards, I looked for a bar. I picked Solly’s. They didn’t have Blue Moon in a bottle or any other form. When I asked what was available in a bottle, the bartender pointed to a dark corner 15 feet above me and about 30 feet away per my line of sight and walked away. He wasn’t gaining any points in my book as a new user friendly bartender. It made me wish I was at BWI’s bar. That bartender, I think Jeff was his name, was nice and social. I decided upon a Guinness that wound up being Draught- not as good as Stout.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Wednesday, 1 July 2009- Canoeing on Clopper Lake
Wednesday, 1 July 2009- Canoeing on Clopper Lake
With the intent to just sleep away the day under the sun and shadows of the tall trees, I returned to Seneca Creek State Park with my sleeping mat, only to discover the Boat Center was open. My plans changed and I rented a canoe for $7 for an hour. I was amazed they would let an inexperience person take a canoe out on the lake without another person with them. I paddled, meeyaddled the little canoe off to the right of the boat center and aimed it for the Earthen Dam. A kayaker led the way about 200 yards ahead of me. I kind of followed his track. The kayaker went into a little cove and just sat. When I got to the Earthen Dam, I turned around and paddled to the shore opposite of the Boat Center. I smiled when I could see fishes swimming beneath me in the somewhat clear water. There was also a plant growth that the fishes darted in and out of. When my hour was coming to an end I returned the canoe to the boat center rejuvenated and refreshed. Then I walked a trail that led to a grassy area I saw from the canoe earlier. I stretched out on my mat and slept for about 4 hours. Then it was time to get a bite to eat at Taco Bell and go to work.
With the intent to just sleep away the day under the sun and shadows of the tall trees, I returned to Seneca Creek State Park with my sleeping mat, only to discover the Boat Center was open. My plans changed and I rented a canoe for $7 for an hour. I was amazed they would let an inexperience person take a canoe out on the lake without another person with them. I paddled, meeyaddled the little canoe off to the right of the boat center and aimed it for the Earthen Dam. A kayaker led the way about 200 yards ahead of me. I kind of followed his track. The kayaker went into a little cove and just sat. When I got to the Earthen Dam, I turned around and paddled to the shore opposite of the Boat Center. I smiled when I could see fishes swimming beneath me in the somewhat clear water. There was also a plant growth that the fishes darted in and out of. When my hour was coming to an end I returned the canoe to the boat center rejuvenated and refreshed. Then I walked a trail that led to a grassy area I saw from the canoe earlier. I stretched out on my mat and slept for about 4 hours. Then it was time to get a bite to eat at Taco Bell and go to work.
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