tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-145805582024-03-07T01:36:39.762-06:00knightonknightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.comBlogger886125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-64084028247414604142011-08-18T13:11:00.001-05:002011-08-18T13:38:59.972-05:00I've MovedYou can visit me at http://jknighton.wordpress.com/<br />
<br />
See you over there!knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-24834158936714144102011-08-10T16:17:00.000-05:002011-08-10T16:17:23.494-05:00I Doodle (almost) Every Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-Ei1qhhJ3HaaCAR9ChpvR8COWBtIOOo69XPakp7pO4jtgQBPC-5ql77cFsodIDodwtAPEo3bYyLfTg0DGOTcVz0M1ZFx4DOem-ToH5wI3IQLv6mCCdsSawduGTVrYkegQmoz/s1600/z1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ-Ei1qhhJ3HaaCAR9ChpvR8COWBtIOOo69XPakp7pO4jtgQBPC-5ql77cFsodIDodwtAPEo3bYyLfTg0DGOTcVz0M1ZFx4DOem-ToH5wI3IQLv6mCCdsSawduGTVrYkegQmoz/s320/z1.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><br />
knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-61754137614062486962011-07-28T13:58:00.002-05:002011-07-28T13:59:36.028-05:00Confession: I Am a WorkaholicThis realization should come as no surprise to me. But it kinda does. When I take time off, I feel guilty for not working. And then I feel guilty for not enjoying some down time while also feeling guilty about not working. It's stupid, really, to feel guilty for feeling guilty. Stupid or crazy.<br />
<br />
It's not that I can't rest. I can. But I must force myself. I must actively redirect thoughts as they stray back to work and household chores and the things I <i>should</i> be doing instead. (Note: should is a guilt work. When you find it, kill it. Kill it dead.)<br />
<br />
#thatisallknightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-74608153090700863222011-07-23T11:53:00.000-05:002011-07-23T11:53:21.933-05:00Words To Live By<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Trust to your instincts</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">If it's safely restrained</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Lightning reactions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Must be carefully trained</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Heat of the moment</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Curse of the young</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Spit out your anger</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Don't swallow your tongue</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><i><br />
</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Stick it out</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Don't swallow the poison</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Spit it out</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Don't swallow your pride</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Stick it out</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Don't swallow your anger</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Spit it out</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Don't swallow the lies</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Natural reflex</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Pendulum swing</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">You might be too dizzy</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">To do the right thing</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Trial under fire</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Ultimate proof</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Moment of crisis</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Don't swallow the truth</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Each time we bathe our reactions</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">In artificial light</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Each time we alter the focus</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">To make the wrong moves seem right</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">You get so used to deception</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">You make yourself a nervous wreck</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">You get so used to surrender</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">Running back to cover your neck</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13px;">-Rush, Stick It Out</span>knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-83492152430452034252011-07-19T11:38:00.001-05:002011-07-19T11:50:18.435-05:00Vocabulary Lesson #35: Far Crypariah<br />
wandering<br />
barking<br />
speaking<br />
tidal<br />
fortune<br />
electrical<br />
inherit<br />
current<br />
circuit<br />
whirlwind<br />
faith<br />
horizon<br />
betrayal<br />
circle<br />
planet<br />
<br />
Bonus:<br />
changeknightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-2581156543971915452011-07-12T17:26:00.002-05:002011-07-12T17:28:26.660-05:00Time is a Trickster<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 17px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Time is a shapeshifter. Sometimes it's a hill, and I have to work three times as hard to go the ten paces I could skip across with no effort were it flat ground. Other times, though (and far too often lately), time is a slide and no matter how I dig in my heels to stop, or at least slow down, gravity plus the tilt of this patch of earth are pushing me, pushing you, faster, always faster, and if we're smart we'll want to pause everything--there's so much to see! so much to miss!--but if we're smarter we'll just forget our feet, pull our knees to our chests, lean back, open our eyes wide, and enjoy the ride. Because, see, it's not that kind of slide at all, it's a</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 17px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 17px;"><em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">landslide</span></em></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 17px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">--just the other side of that same hill.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 17px;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; line-height: 17px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Leah, excerpted from </span><a href="http://www.agirlandaboy.com/journal/archives/002973.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Time is a...</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> at </span><a href="http://www.agirlandaboy.com/journal/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A Girl and a Boy</span></a></span>knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-68990467835092822242011-06-27T14:31:00.000-05:002011-06-27T14:31:44.285-05:00Depression, Work-Life Balance, and Rediscovering Self (or Navel Gazing for the Over-30 Crowd)I don't want to get into this too much here, but let me just say that I can tell the state of my mental health by the non-work-related writing I do. (See: this blog and the lack of posting since July 2010) And also by the heart palpitations, anxiety hives, and panic attacks. Crushing chest pain is a sign that something has gone seriously sideways in life.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I haven't written anything lately. The past couple months have been busy:<br />
<br />
First, we bought a house and moved to New Braunfels. We have two ponds full of goldfish and Koi and a herd of deer who are constantly begging for food. We see all variety of birds - including a Cardinal family who built a nest by the living room window and birthed another generation, hummingbirds everywhere, and roadrunners. We also have scorpions and tarantulas and snakes, oh my!<br />
<br />
Then, once we got into the place, My sister-in-law and I repainted my office and decorated it with some lovely dark wood and lots of art. Remind me never to paint a 10'x10' room with 12' ceilings. Ever. Again. What on earth was I thinking? The upside, however, is that the place is everything I wanted in an office - sunny and relaxing and with a beautiful view.<br />
<br />
Lately, we've been entertaining just about everyone we know at the house. The month of July is already booked with guests and we're scheduling into August! Apparently, this is The Place To Be. And it makes me so very happy.<br />
<br />
In work-related travel news, I've been to Alabama, Georgia, Arkansas, Florida, Ohio (twice), Arizona, and North Carolina. And none of that includes the tornado-related stranding in Dallas or a trip to Houston. And really, that is just the tip of the iceberg of my sales business. Too many places to go and not enough time to do it all.<br />
<br />
I'm going to try to get back to a more regular posting schedule, but I can't promise anything. Because I just don't know if I'll have the energy to be anything more than a neglectful writer on my own blog. In the meantime, I've got to figure out where things have gone wrong and set them to rights again.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-45308121440167963692011-04-28T09:13:00.000-05:002011-04-28T09:13:13.371-05:00And Then One Day I Just Got Tired of TalkingActually, that happens every day. I'm a salesman; I talk all day long, five (or more) days a week. <br />
<br />
But it's not like I don't have anything to say. I actually have a lot to say - I've just been keeping most of it in my little head. Anyway...<br />
<br />
Since I last wrote on this little page:<br />
<br />
I have kicked some serious ass in my work - until the past month when closing the business has been more difficult than I expected. I've also been to Atlanta, Miami, Los Angeles, Houston, and DC. All in the past month.<br />
<br />
Oh, AND I went to New Orleans with my friends <a href="http://www.outsidevoice.net/">Pam</a>, <a href="http://www.elzabelz.blogspot.com/">Ellie</a>, and <a href="http://www.waterwatereverywhere.net/">Sarah</a>. And <a href="http://thementalcluttercoach.com/">April </a>and <a href="http://asouthernfairytale.com/">Rachel</a>. And new friends <a href="http://hjentertains.com/blog/">Helen Jane</a> and <a href="http://wouldashoulda.com/">Mir </a>and <a href="http://boudoirmoncheri.com/">Christine</a>. And was photographed by <a href="http://www.chookooloonks.com/blog/">Karen</a>.<br />
<br />
We decided to buy <a href="http://gallery.me.com/jenniferknighton#100004">a new house</a>, and we'll be moving in this Saturday. We are very excited. And also nervous. And excited.<br />
<br />
Also, OH MY GOD, everything always happens all at once!<br />
<br />
I'll be very happy to see May 1st.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-20086862928742764322011-01-11T10:50:00.005-06:002011-01-11T10:58:58.057-06:00Wherein I Am Late to the Party, As Usual<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm having a hard time, these days, coming up with anything to write. So, I'll just steal <a href="http://www.agirlandaboy.com/journal/archives/002780.html">Leah's year-end meme</a>. And I realize we are already 11 days into the new year, but the words, they are eluding me these days. Also, I'm reminded that last year was "Reboot 2010," and I think I managed to do just that. Anyway:</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. What did you do in 2010 that you'd never done before?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://knighton.blogspot.com/2010/08/mighty-life-list-9-visit-new-york-check.html">Attended BlogHer in New York</a>. Visited (a little) New York City. Played drums (badly.)</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">2. Did you keep your new year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I'm not big on resolutions, though I do like to have a word or theme for the year. Last year it was Reboot 2010. This year, Peace. So far, I'm kinda failing on the peace agenda, though I did kick my Diet Coke habit. So there's that.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">3. Did anyone close to you give birth?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">One of my college roommates had a little boy, and the other roommate is pregnant and due in February. It's kinda blowing my mind.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. Did anyone close to you die? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Not this year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">5. What countries did you visit? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Just the United States, but I managed to hit an amazing number of those states during the last half of the year. My mind boggles at the travel I've been doing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">More patience and a thicker skin. I might be waiting a long time for those two virtues.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">7. What dates from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">8/2/10 was my <a href="http://knighton.blogspot.com/2010/07/winds-of-change.html">last day at Apple</a>, after eight years there. And those eight years were something else - from the days when it looked like the company wouldn't survive to, well, the juggernaut it has become. I'm proud to have been a part of it all, proud to have made a difference, and I'll miss it.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">8. What was your biggest achievement of the year? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Landed a new job after a rather grueling interview experience. If you've ever been Topgraded, you know. And if you haven't been Topgraded, try to avoid it.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">9. What was your biggest failure?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The temporary falling-out with my sister. I regret that.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">10. Did you suffer illness or injury?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I was stricken with the flu during my new hire training week. It was all I could do to remain upright. I'm sure I infected half the company. Sorry, guys.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">11. What was the best thing you bought?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The Mini Cooper. SO. MUCH. FUN. TO. DRIVE! And, also, the drum kit. SO. MUCH. FUN. TO. PLAY!</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">12. Whose behavior merited celebration?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">My husband, who put up with my mild depression earlier in the year, who celebrated new hobbies with me, who endured that grueling interview process, and who celebrated with me every step of the way. That man is a keeper.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> Pleading the fifth here.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">14. Where did most of your money go?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Besides the mortgage? Good food and cheap wine. We made a conscious effort in 2010 to eat more organically and to select naturally raised meat and poultry. It has been worth it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">15. What did you get really excited about?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">BlogHer in New York! The Mini Cooper! A red drum kit! A new job! </span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">16. What song will always remind you of 2010?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Seven Bridges Road by The Eagles. Because we saw them live, and they opened with this song, which they rarely sing but has always been a favorite of mine. I like to believe they sung it just for me.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">17. Compared to this time last year, are you: </span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">--happier or sadder? Happier, considering the near-crippling depression of last winter. But not nearly as happy as I thought I'd be, which is kinda sad.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">--thinner or fatter? About the same, actually, though I feel healthier.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">--richer or poorer? Richer, by a little. But no amount of income will ever erase that feeling from childhood that money is scarce and we're on the brink of financial ruin. I know it's not true, but it's there in the back of my mind just the same.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">18. What do you wish you'd done more of? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Play.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">19. What do you wish you'd done less of? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Whine. </span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">20. How did you spend Christmas? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Hanging out with our families, including a three-hour midnight karaoke marathon wherein I sang all the songs (and I don't sing in front of people. ever.), an epic nerf-gun battle with my dad, brother, and nephews, the gift of music for my side of the family, and a lovely road trip with my darling husband.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">21. Did you fall in love in 2010?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Every single day.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">22. What was your favorite TV program? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We only get basic cable, because it keeps the cost of our internet service down. But we rented and watched the entire series, My Name Is Earl. Loved it. And I have no idea how we missed it when it was originally on TV. Go figure.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Nope.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">24. What was the best book you read?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">My favorite books of the year were the Sunday Philosophy Club and 44 Scotland Street series written by Alexander McCall Smith. I loved their gentle humor and irony, and I loved the tenderness of human interaction. They're something special.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">25. What was your greatest musical discovery? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">First is my <a href="http://knighton.blogspot.com/2010/05/rhythm-grace-and-joy.html">unadulterated joy</a> from learning the drums. I am fascinated at how time flies when I'm playing. And second would have to be Iron Maiden. Don't laugh! Husband has been a fan for years, and I've just never seen the appeal. Then, he found an acoustic, Spanish-guitar version of one of their songs....and suddenly! I got it! I really get their music now. And I like it. So there.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">26. What did you want and get?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://knighton.blogspot.com/2010/04/chicken-on-drums.html">A drum kit</a>. The Mini Cooper. A new job.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">27. What did you want and not get?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I'm pretty spoiled. But I wanted things for my husband. We're working on those now.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">27a. What did you <i>not </i>want and <i>not </i>get?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">How about "what did you not want and still get?" instead. An <a href="http://knighton.blogspot.com/2010/05/adventures-suck-when-youre-having-them.html">allergic reaction</a> to my allergy shots, that's what.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">28. What was your favorite film of this year?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I can't really think of a favorite film for 2010. There's nothing that stands out in my mind - mostly because we only went to the theater maybe twice all year. </span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I turned 37 in September and spent Labor Day weekend in San Francisco. Seeing the city and visiting my in-laws. It was exactly what I wanted.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Seriously? A lot of satisfying things happened this year, so much so that I'm a little embarrassed by how fortunate I've been. Immeasurably more satisfying? Probably more chocolate truffles.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2010?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Mostly jeans and t-shirts, till I got that new job. Now it's conservative suits and heals for work, and jeans and t-shirts for everything else. That's not really a "fashion concept." It's more like the daily uniform. Whatever.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">32. What kept you sane? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Husband, drum kit, xanax. In that order. Seriously.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I have an intellectual crush on a world famous drummer. I'm not saying more than that.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">34. What political issue stirred you the most? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We talked a lot, and passionately, about health care reform and immigration. I have strong opinions about both, which don't necessarily fall into either of the current political ideologies.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">35. Who did you miss? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I miss <a href="http://knighton.blogspot.com/2010/10/i-miss-my-grandmother.html">my grandmother</a>. A lot.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">36. Who was the best new person you met? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I met <a href="http://www.outsidevoice.net/">Pam </a>in person for the first time, though we've been online friends for years. And <a href="http://thementalcluttercoach.com/">April</a>, who was a surprise instant friend and BlogHer roomie.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">I feel like I keep learning the same things over and over, which probably means I'm not getting the lesson the first go round. As always: Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is not proud. Love is slow to anger. Love endures all things.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">A chance to break from the past / <a href="http://knighton.blogspot.com/2010/08/vocabulary-lesson-34-caravan.html">The caravan thunders onward</a> / Stars winking through the canvas hood / On my way at last / In a world where I feel so small / I can’t stop thinking big </span><br />
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</span></div>knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-87665511792299215622010-12-30T19:06:00.000-06:002010-12-30T19:06:30.667-06:00A (Mostly) Complete List of Jennifer's Irrational FearsIce skating. I know I'll fall down, and I think someone will unintentionally skate over my exposed fingers and cut them off.<br />
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Shopping carts behind me. I expect them to ram into the backs of my ankles and render me bloodied and bruised.<br />
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Snakes. This is actually a totally rational fear, sorta. It's not rational to fear snakes in glass cages at the zoo.<br />
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Barefoot at the airport. Ring worm, bacteria, shards of glass, canine fecal matter, hypodermic needles, and God only knows what else. Actually, this fear makes total sense.<br />
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Large crowds. They press in on you, sucking up all the oxygen, and then they touch you - whether intential or not doesn't matter. They bump into you. They yell in your one good ear. They spill their sticky beverage down your favorite dress. And then you have a full blown panic attack and might pass out.<br />
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Raw oysters. It's a texture thing. Also, Guillaume-Barre.<br />
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A sinkful of dishwater. Gives me a gag reflex every time.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-4459723543518358222010-12-22T09:05:00.000-06:002010-12-22T09:05:10.712-06:00A Little More IntrospectionSome more thoughts inspired by the www.Reverb10.com prompts:<br />
<br />
9. Party. Which social gathering rocked your socks off in 2010?<br />
BlogHer, obviously, leads the list of great parties of the past year - thanks to time spent with friends, visiting a new city, and all that. But I have to confess that my husband and I kept an extremely active social calendar this summer, with something going on almost every weekend from May to October. This year has been fun! And I really hope we continue the trend. Because my anxiety level needs all the fun it can get.<br />
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10. Wisdom. What was the wisest decision you made this year and how did it play out?<br />
Well, I think the wisdom started last December when we decided to Reboot in 2010. It's been an entire year of personal evaluation and exploration, but I don't think it stops here. 2011 looks to be as filled with new experiences as 2010 has been, and I can hardly wait to see what the year holds.<br />
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13. Action. When it comes to aspirations, it’s not about ideas. It’s about making ideas happen. What’s your next step?<br />
"I have no idea" is probably the wrong answer here. But I must confess, I feel completely ill-prepared to take the Baptist Wine Club to the next level. Whatever that looks like. This summer I moved that blog to a Wordpress site, which has resulted in more traffic and some attention from wineries and their PR agencies. All of which is wonderful. But I really don't know what to do next. "Build it and they will come" is a great dream, but requires a lot more than just a dream. Any tips?<br />
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17. Lesson Learned. What was the best thing you learned about yourself this past year?<br />
This past July, I interviewed for and won a new job. The interview process itself was excruciatingly detailed, and often felt mildly intrusive. Having to reflect on your entire work life from college forward and to critically evaluate your performance at each step - that was hard work. But I learned that I have a strong, determined character, that I'm aggressive and competitive, and that I set higher standards for personal performance than what most others would expect. I am hard on myself. But that only works for a while before you start caving under the weight of your own expectations. I'd like to work on being a little more self-forgiving. I don't know if it's possible, though.<br />
<br />
I might post some more Reverb10 responses next week. I'm not sure - they feel increasingly more reflective and I may not be able to bravely share my thoughts. <i>Sigh</i>. We'll see.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-44444294303002140202010-12-09T09:11:00.002-06:002010-12-09T09:14:38.237-06:00In Which I Reexamine the Past Year. A Little.I've been quietly following the responses to the Reverb10.com prompts, and thought I'd add a few of my own:<br />
<br />
1. One Word for 2010. One word for 2011.<br />
This year has been about CHANGE more than anything else. It started last December with a commitment to Reboot 2010, and hasn't let up. There's been a new job, of course, but also new hobbies, new travel, more activity, and less rest. I'd like to see 2011 be a peaceful year, and not just meaning less change. I want to cultivate PEACE in my relationships, in my career, in my home.<br />
<br />
3. Moment. Describe one moment during which you felt most alive.<br />
Sitting in a restaurant on the Florida coast, on the terrace, looking at the ocean. The moon was rising through pirate clouds and the wind was a caress on my cheek. Palm fronds rustled overhead, and one lonely seagull cried in the night. The smell of hot pizza drifted toward me, as I sipped a glass of red wine. And I stopped mid-motion, overcome with a sense that all was right in the world, that today is a perfect day, everything will be just fine. Peace.<br />
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4. Wonder. How did you cultivate a sensor of wonder this hear.<br />
Drum lessons. I feel like a child everytime I sit down at my kit. It's play, but I'm learning a new talent. And I marvel that something as simple as hitting things with sticks can provide so much sheer joy.<br />
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8. Beautifully different. Reflect in the things that make you different; you'll find they're what make you beautiful.<br />
I have found this prompt most difficult to answer. Mainly because I've never found myself particularly beautiful. Pretty maybe, but not beautiful. Still, I know what I like about myself. I have a quirky sense of humor that sometimes confuses people, but which makes me laugh. I ask difficult questions, especially about faith, and I really try to work out the answers. I'm skeptical, stubborn, opinionated. I don't think any of these things make me different, but at least they make life interesting. Oh, and I have really pretty green eyes.<br />
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You could try a few of the prompts too. They're all listed at www.rerverb10.com/the-prompts/<br />
<br />
Have fun.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-1891584705199879942010-12-07T10:11:00.000-06:002010-12-07T10:11:34.741-06:00I've Been Everywhere, ManYeah, so like two months got away from me. Bet you'd like to know what I've been up to.<br />
<br />
I've been to:<br />
North Carolina<br />
Houston, Texas (twice)<br />
South Florida<br />
Atlanta, Georgia<br />
South Carolina<br />
San Diego, California<br />
Dallas, Texas<br />
<br />
Plus there was the Thanksgiving trip to Conroe/Willis. And a few days here in lovely Austin.<br />
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I am tired. But I'm inspired by the end-of-year writing prompts from www.Reverb10.com. I think I'll share some of my answers over the next three weeks.<br />
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Thanks for being patient and not giving up on this weary traveler.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-90619360761345331072010-10-06T19:41:00.000-05:002010-10-06T19:41:03.844-05:00I Miss My GrandmotherHad shrimp & grits for dinner tonight, with spicy sausage and fresh tomatoes. Only thing missing was the red-eye gravy and a homemade biscuit.<br />
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I really REALLY REALLY miss her.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-50414136448885702482010-09-29T19:10:00.003-05:002010-09-29T19:14:04.620-05:00See? Told Ya.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Smallest plane ever:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipu-shS_EwfF-f2I_qRUx2VkV5q5GRcbehYkS33hwRfZSAy452idUHdvYpFUzb2_suUjRDpblb-4hxcLcjaBnHpuEnRSgIdh9OR8jl3d4qUTJgaODX-y4xWhtY-njXdBCL5Xk2/s320/IMG00042-20100927-1806.jpg" width="320" /></div><span style="font-size: small;">That was Monday afternoon. Today I rode back to Denver in what was probably the exact same plane, with a pilot who can't be two years out of high school, through non-stop turbulence. I kept my eyes closed the whole flight. It was <i>almost </i>enough to give a girl a phobia.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Because I have no real fear of flying. But when sitting in a little tin can like this, flying through the air a few miles above the surface of the planet, you realize that there is really nothing at all between you and a smear on the ground but a thin sheet of metal being pummeled by violent winds. Disturbing.</span>knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-58698412962974596382010-09-27T23:19:00.000-05:002010-09-27T23:19:46.709-05:00Up, Up and AwaySo, I'm in Cheyenne, Wyoming, by way of Denver, Colorado, today. Some observations:<br />
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Massive B.O. should be considered a security risk. I have no idea how a man smelling so obscene would be allowed through security.<br />
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There should be a special First Time Flyers section in the airplane where the newbies can congregate to violate all the unspoken in-air rules together. <br />
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The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beechcraft_1900">Beechcraft 1900D Turboprop</a> is officially the smallest plane I've ever been on. It's unsettling to be able to see clearly out the cockpit windows from the back row. At least it was a short flight.<br />
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The Cheyenne airport is officially the smallest airport I've ever entered, and that includes Yakima, Washington, and Bend, Oregon. These little out-of-the-way towns really know how to frighten the tourists.<br />
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You can see for miles and miles out here. It makes me nervous.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-20415173926663588792010-09-24T19:45:00.003-05:002010-09-24T19:50:14.485-05:00And Then Two Weeks PassedBest laid plans of mice and saleswomen, and all that jazz. In the past couple of weeks, I've been running up and down the IH-35 corridor as far north as Dallas and Fort Worth and as far south as San Antonio, and a lot of places in between. Needless to say, I've seen a lot of miles in a short period of time.<br />
<br />
I've also seen my two college roommates, Julie and Tanja, and had cocktails with friends, Pam and Mandy. And let's talk about all these beautiful, delightful, fascinating women.<br />
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Julie and Tanja are two of the people dearest to my heart, having spent some of the most impressionable years of my life in their company. Julie is clever, passionate, and absolutely effervescent. Tanja is thoughtful, determined, and wickedly smart. <i>(Really, you could switch the names around and the descriptions would still apply. They are extraordinary women!)</i> Julie is expecting a son soon, and Tanja is a new mom.<br />
<br />
The two of them are more than just a hallmark moment in time to remember fondly; they are part of the fabric of my life, weaving a beautiful pattern on my heart and soul, changing the texture of my little world. I owe them debts of gratitude for kindnesses large and small, and I just love them.<br />
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<a href="http://www.outsidevoice.net/">Pam</a> was my roommate at BlogHer this summer and an online friend of several years, and Mandy is a new friend introduced just this week. They are funny, witty, fascinating women, and I hope to spend more time in their company and to get to know them both better. With cocktails.<br />
<br />
What's been both surprising and reassuring is the way the conversations with each of these lovely ladies has the tone of just picking up where we last left off - whether that was a month ago or a year ago or for the first time today.<br />
<br />
And here is where I make a little confession: I have always yearned for some magical life-long friend. You know what I mean: the girl you met in first grade and stayed friends with forever. You double-dated in high school and were bride's maids in each others weddings. You talk on the phone almost every day, even now. And for me, at least, that's a fantasy, especially given the fact that my sister totally and completely qualifies here. <i>(Note: that's the problem with fantasy. You ignore the blessing in your midst.)</i><br />
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These friends I have now are life-long friends, whether we met nearly 20 years ago or more recently or at birth. What is suddenly more important to me, and I think to most women I know, is that our friendships are deep and real and honest. That we can be exactly who we are with each other, without fear or regret.<br />
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I was struck by a part of the conversation with Tanja and Julie. Our lives have taken us separate and interesting places and yet some of the fundamentals (faith, beliefs, values, ethics, and such) have taken similar though sometimes winding paths to bring us again to a new, different common ground. And now, looking at each other, we see those same kindred spirits that drew us together in the first place.<br />
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We've changed so much and not at all.knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-19367881062408946712010-09-11T13:47:00.003-05:002010-09-11T13:52:04.616-05:00More Planes, Trains, and AutomobilesSo, yeah, I've been traveling. A LOT. And completely not blogging about it. Because by the end of the day and end of the week, I'm just exhausted. And also, there is so much in my business life that I seem to be using up all my words before I have a chance to write.<br />
Anyway . . . excuses, excuses.<br />
<br />
So, this past week I was in Northern California - from San Francisco as far north as Arcata. <i>(About which more in a sec.)</i><br />
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In San Francisco we took a few days before the start of the week to celebrate my 37th birthday. <i>(I'll go ahead and admit that I am ambivalent about this birthday. Normally I remind everyone I know for about a month before my day, and then celebrate throughout September. This year, I just don't want to think too much about it. And also, surprisingly, I feel more comfortable in my own skin than I ever thought possible. It's a wonderful feeling, actually. So long as I don't dwell on that late-thirties thing.)</i> Anyway, we stayed at the always lovely <a href="http://www.monaco-sf.com/">Hotel Monaco</a> at Union Square, where the staff are the epitome of genuine hospitality, from the hostess to the housecleaning staff, and everyone in between. Stay here if you ever get the chance. And bring your pets, who are always welcome.<br />
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We did a lot of the things we always do when we visit SF, but this time we walked it all - averaging about 5 miles per day and seeing more of the city than one does by car. We walked from Union Square to Chinatown, down to North Beach, and on to Fisherman's Wharf. Another day, we took the car to Golden Gate Park, walked the park, strolled through Haight-Asbury, visited the Conservatory of Flowers, and later hit Ocean Beach. <i>(Note: it is unbelievably easy to get lost in Golden Gate Park. I advise a map.)</i> What we didn't do was load up on souvenirs and stuff. Because we always come back to this fair city and because we just didn't want the bother of lugging it all back through airport security.<br />
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Now, I will confess we spent a portion of Labor Day in Napa Valley, hitting a couple wineries. If I had thought ahead, I would have planned more time to visit a few of the Baptist Wine Club preferred vineyards, but instead we just stopped by a few of our long-standing favorites for a couple bottles of things we keep running out of and that we can't get back home. Like <a href="http://www.vsattui.com/index.cfm?method=storeproducts.showDrilldown&productid=c49b31d3-b828-2d74-325f-a3376d5d8eeb&ProductCategoryID=59514f6e-da4d-255b-a0b1-6267fec28220&WineryID=4845157d-9752-3a94-2636-3c278b2ddcdd&WineTypeID=&ProductType=&wineVarietalID=&wineRegionID=&vintage=&lowprice=&highPrice=&WineBrandID=&WineAppellationID=&lowletter=&highletter=&OrderBy=PXPC.DisplayOrder%20Asc,%20P.ProductName%20ASC&ShippingState=CA">Sattui Madeira</a>, which is the perfect after-dinner beverage, in my humble opinion.<br />
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Tuesday brought meetings in Arcata, CA, home of Humoldt State University, and which I learned is world famous for it's growth, consumption, and distribution of certain <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humboldt_County,_California#Marijuana">controlled herbs and weeds</a>. Apparently, 1 in 7 citizens of the county grow their own - at least according to the bartender. That probably explains the popularity of a university a couple hundred miles from any major city and lacking decent shopping & dining. It seems the citizenry has other priorities.<br />
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It was in Arcata that a dreadlocked couple loaded with luggage entered the elevator and remarked, "we've been driving all day. And you smell good." Odd. And later that evening, a panhandler explained that the snails were out and would I "please take care not to crush them. They're just trying to cross the street." The only possible response: "thanks for the warning. I'll be on the lookout."<br />
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Also, there were more dreadlocks in Arcata than I have ever seen at any given time ever, even considering that NY Subway trip and the fact that I live in another, popular college town. There's just no comparison. Arcata wins for dreadlocks.<br />
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The rest of the week found me in Redding to visit Simpson University and then on to Berkeley for a trip to the university there. I sorta made a big loop of Northern California, which meant for a lot of driving <i>(about 900 miles in total)</i> and led to a bit of back pain. Still, it was a great weekend for celebrating and a great week for business.<br />
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And I'll try to be a more consistent correspondent going forward, even if I'm traveling. Well, especially if I'm traveling. Oh, the things I see and the people I meet along the way!knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-68817194294925478952010-08-29T11:39:00.000-05:002010-08-29T11:39:57.021-05:00Vocabulary Lesson #34: Caravanfire<br />
train<br />
stars<br />
steamliner<br />
caravan<br />
onward<br />
road<br />
shadows<br />
night<br />
young<br />
good<br />
world<br />
chance<br />
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Bonus:<br />
gypsyknightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-40764659146532350042010-08-24T12:30:00.001-05:002010-08-24T12:30:00.694-05:00Mighty Life List #9: Visit New York. {Check}You may have noticed from the previous post of snapshots, that part of my travel schedule took me to New York City for BlogHer '10. And I probably could have spent a few lifetimes in that fantastic city.<br />
<br />
But first, a big THANK YOU SO MUCH to my fashionable friend, <a href="http://www.outsidevoice.net/">Pam</a>, who absolutely insisted I make this trip, come hell or high water. And, to tell the truth, I would have been lost there without her and our roommate, the inimitable <a href="http://www.simplyorganizedonline.com/">April</a>. Dear lovely ladies, please accept my heartfelt gratitude for allowing this last minute tag-along to enjoy your company, your stories, your laughter, and your friendship. Let's do it again!<br />
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And big hugs to <a href="http://www.VolunteerSpot.com/">Karen</a>, <a href="http://thisisworthwhile.blogspot.com/">Jessica</a>, <a href="http://www.welcometomybrain.net/">Christine</a>, <a href="http://www.meandmine.org/">Allison</a>, <a href="http://theAmberShow.net/">Amber</a>, <a href="http://yonked.com/">Stephanie</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/55secretstreet?ref=ts">Nichelle</a>, <a href="http://www.agirlandaboy.com/journal/">Leah</a>, and all the other wonderful women I had the pleasure to meet. Ya'll made my trip so much more than I hoped it could be.<br />
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Now I just have to figure out how to get back to New York for a longer trip!knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-7266926311476797132010-08-23T21:05:00.000-05:002010-08-23T21:05:07.096-05:00Planes, Trains, and AutomobilesI've been traveling pretty much non-stop since the first week of August. I have been on six flights, three subways, five cabs, two rental cars, and one train. The girl gets around. And, in lieu of a detailed analysis of all I've seen and done, I offer up these snapshots:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9LbslgFg_ewE4t-nZe2CSqteYTcjzh7bahcv205enj3MmNDCTYcdX13jHdjLTIKG_5wg50KoqRGSe4e5HNfa4pl5ICE55MAg2lSccU7nBAlEvevaVsLL1aIfaLe_34xkouFF/s1600/IMG_0694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9LbslgFg_ewE4t-nZe2CSqteYTcjzh7bahcv205enj3MmNDCTYcdX13jHdjLTIKG_5wg50KoqRGSe4e5HNfa4pl5ICE55MAg2lSccU7nBAlEvevaVsLL1aIfaLe_34xkouFF/s320/IMG_0694.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZho9EGED7ewdJR3nEx0W9_a87R8t5IJtDQltsn7ASfVsr5kHZdljU0zRsjMtvrDWNXozBm6mkXsn1rImK1oiXide2dwcCAmBI7Dg-klYOdLwYdKRFLOd0ikXeWC4kI_7glZJ/s1600/IMG_0699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZho9EGED7ewdJR3nEx0W9_a87R8t5IJtDQltsn7ASfVsr5kHZdljU0zRsjMtvrDWNXozBm6mkXsn1rImK1oiXide2dwcCAmBI7Dg-klYOdLwYdKRFLOd0ikXeWC4kI_7glZJ/s320/IMG_0699.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fin1HHWm3wDxDaZu7t2KyanBztg2RVAsDbofk3DKVgjEOOQRaFqcsXzM57houqN1bgGP69YFkU0vqWPkZ3mbVuZ9J3QfqRD393vok0O19erQ6qyNgWgvKWS97hZUU3E7XXbl/s1600/IMG_0840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5fin1HHWm3wDxDaZu7t2KyanBztg2RVAsDbofk3DKVgjEOOQRaFqcsXzM57houqN1bgGP69YFkU0vqWPkZ3mbVuZ9J3QfqRD393vok0O19erQ6qyNgWgvKWS97hZUU3E7XXbl/s320/IMG_0840.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxj8IhJBCqlRTyAsKOjzUiLBDaEMBYTbYUZVygA5pZoC8TduOFJ15StHADyeRm00KK1eyFak7XNNFi3mPw3LEB0aaVZy390knNUipUeo-iwB5Apgd5ZHUbJDo7JHh0uHmQuX5S/s1600/IMG_0902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxj8IhJBCqlRTyAsKOjzUiLBDaEMBYTbYUZVygA5pZoC8TduOFJ15StHADyeRm00KK1eyFak7XNNFi3mPw3LEB0aaVZy390knNUipUeo-iwB5Apgd5ZHUbJDo7JHh0uHmQuX5S/s320/IMG_0902.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiykwYKhtqjbgkfKF_oO7yd79NS2xdT5OES9BVJA0K77DCaSjei6ZZUUrlR-jbgYH59G5qzwTB30b5NiIFtH8ufkGqNEBE_jpsHW6dXj8kO86oTqMxIttR2dHM1vdLJuQ2zY_Lf/s1600/IMG_0918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiykwYKhtqjbgkfKF_oO7yd79NS2xdT5OES9BVJA0K77DCaSjei6ZZUUrlR-jbgYH59G5qzwTB30b5NiIFtH8ufkGqNEBE_jpsHW6dXj8kO86oTqMxIttR2dHM1vdLJuQ2zY_Lf/s320/IMG_0918.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzrUpk7SMPQPu6VcWF3NCTzFIzr6MzUZvQGUoqxpHBHNKTQDz5YGfX2kNYrRQRkXsPtRGi5OPAw1L_k4q7CTsZK2YgFBB1I_MGIA_8-vByyyjQsdQjrT2CbKn3YXibdnaRvtI/s1600/IMG_1051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzrUpk7SMPQPu6VcWF3NCTzFIzr6MzUZvQGUoqxpHBHNKTQDz5YGfX2kNYrRQRkXsPtRGi5OPAw1L_k4q7CTsZK2YgFBB1I_MGIA_8-vByyyjQsdQjrT2CbKn3YXibdnaRvtI/s320/IMG_1051.jpg" /></a></div>knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-11281987006600915322010-07-30T12:08:00.000-05:002010-07-30T12:08:43.163-05:00The Winds of ChangeLife has been slightly turbulent for the past month here at Chez Knighton, and it looks to continue for another three weeks or so. Mainly because I've resigned my position at my current fruit-flavored employer and will transition to another company on August 9th. <br />
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To add to the adventure of changing jobs, I'll be traveling to New York next week for BlogHer. Then taking the train from NYC to Boston to meet a new colleague and attend a few meetings, and later in the week flying home to entertain my parents for a few days, just before flying out to Virginia for an entire week of training at the headquarters. August is booked solid.<br />
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And while this looks like a lot, and actually is a lot, I'm more excited about work and this new adventure than I've been in a long time. I can hardly wait to get started.<br />
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But first, I must plan my wardrobe and shoes!knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-35240755334397284372010-07-21T10:00:00.001-05:002010-07-21T10:00:04.280-05:00You Will Never See These People Again (Part 2)Last weekend, Husband and I went on a drive through a couple new neighborhoods. We do this from time to time, peaking in on new construction, visiting open houses, and generally dreaming.<br />
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Anyway, we stopped at this one place where the builder's cleaning crew was putting the final touches on a brand new house, so we asked if we could look around and they said that would be fine. So, we helped ourselves to a tour of a really lovely place that we could imagine living in.<br />
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But, just about the minute I fell in love with the master bathroom, we heard voices in the other part of the house. We walked into the living room to discover another couple there, and we assumed* they were also getting a tour.<br />
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Not quite so fast.<br />
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Turns out, they're the new owners, having just had this lovely house built and soon to move in. And, as it also turns out, we were officially trespassing. But what really got the lady-of-the-house's goat was the fact that we had parked in her new driveway. She was totally hung up on the fact that "not even they drove in the driveway."<br />
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<i>Let's just pause here and consider that statement. Um, isn't the purpose of a driveway to handle parked cars? No? It's just me, then?</i><br />
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So, we made our apologies and got the heck out of her new house, making a new line of tire tracks on her no-longer-virginal driveway. And leaving them with a story to tell for the rest of their lives.<br />
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<i>*We all know the definition of assume.</i>knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-86304230870450943122010-07-20T09:03:00.000-05:002010-07-20T09:03:59.114-05:00Vocabulary Lesson #33: Prime Moverelemental<br />
passion<br />
thrill<br />
rational<br />
resistance<br />
conception<br />
truth<br />
surrender<br />
ignition<br />
journey<br />
temperamental<br />
perception<br />
polarize<br />
force<br />
magnetic<br />
departure<br />
motion<br />
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Bonus:<br />
adventureknightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14580558.post-69869788179712197482010-07-08T23:41:00.000-05:002010-07-08T23:41:19.008-05:00New Shoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHZcZQ60IehH3_9pFkHtRPNiOZKgqZydDdfS8AI5D8BKNfBiv5NHLY0ntTdiKuCRtF02IO6N5GfqtKh6lfE3m-cfN87PDY5ahUt5drwMJdjNiK9cA5AONRONwdiYMDNX-r4yn/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHZcZQ60IehH3_9pFkHtRPNiOZKgqZydDdfS8AI5D8BKNfBiv5NHLY0ntTdiKuCRtF02IO6N5GfqtKh6lfE3m-cfN87PDY5ahUt5drwMJdjNiK9cA5AONRONwdiYMDNX-r4yn/s320/Picture+1.png" /></a></div>Bought these on sale at Nordstrom Rack. Most comfortable heels I've ever owned. Love!knightonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05108963004609863794noreply@blogger.com0