Hey friendly followers,
I started a new blog to track my final semester of life at UT. Find it here, if you're interested:
http://cowgirlking.blogspot.com
Peace,
Cat
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
If the children don't grow up/Our bodies get bigger, but our hearts get torn up.
Back in Texas.
One of the first things I noticed on the plane from Charlotte was the accents. It seems to me that, in many cases, you either completely love the accents of the people who live where you are from, or else you are attracted to any accent that DOESN'T resemble the accents formerly described. I fall into this latter category. I loved the "Joisey" accents, the Long Island accents, the random international accents I would run into in and around New York City. There was something a little dirty about being around the people with southern accents again. I think, more than anything, it was just this instant reminder that I was back.
I'm grappling with the notion right now that I am still, indeed, the girl who lived in New York this summer, who interned at Rolling Stone. I'm having to really remind myself that these experiences are still with me, that they haven't disappeared just because I've changed locations. There is a great sense of loss, a sense of being at a place and time where I'm treading water. So I'm just going to have to come into these last few months at the University of Texas with the same eagerness I approached NYC with. Realistically, it won't be the same, but I will still strive to find the same exciting experiences I found in New York. I'm in a bit of a rut right now, kind of loping around every day, seeing San Antonio buddies here and there, spending time with my dad and our dogs, but mostly just exercising and doing not much else. Talking to my mom today, I realized that this is a natural reaction after so much activity - I need to be lazy and recharge my batteries. The problem is, I'm not enjoying it, because I know there's such a short time limit on this free time. I start school a week from tomorrow, and I want to fit in so many books, so much guitar practicing, so many other activities before then. I just have to work on the balance of everything. Balancing life - it's a tricky thing, and seems to take a lifetime to figure out how to do it.
My last day in New York was a good one. I got up semi-early, and exercised to wake myself up. I did some laundry and started to pack. Then it was off to the movies. I caught "It Might Get Loud," the documentary with Jack White, the Edge and Jimmy Page, and it was stupendous. Plus, during the previews, the trailer for "Where The Wild Things Are" came on (an extended one I had never seen before that doesn't seem to be posted online), and I wept. Openly and in a big way. It felt amazing, especially since I was attending the movie alone. It felt free and rejuvenating, just a really nice moment. After the documentary, I rushed home, had dinner, did some more packing and cleaning, and walked briskly the twenty-five miles and 4ish avenues to the entrance of Central Park where Summerstage was. Unfortunately, the venue was already full, but I could hear a song I recognized playing. I walked around to the back of the venue, and stood by the gate and just listened to Ms. Martha Wainwright sing her beautiful tunes, and I could just see the ballet dancers' hands waving in the air as they accompanied her music. There was an intermission, during which they let some more people inside, so I rushed in hoping to just catch a glimpse of that lovely fresh Wainwright visage. No dice - when the dancers came back on, they were being accompanied by a CD track, and I couldn't wait any longer - had to run to the dorm to check out. I did that, bought some water, and tried to get a little sleep. After about an hour of the stuff, I woke up, showered and dressed, grabbed my things, and headed for the shuttle.
The shuttle to Newark was crazy, but it got me there bright and early at 4am and I was grateful. I leisurely checked myself in, settled into a seat, and read a little, trying to stay awake. The trip back was uneventful, which I completely appreciated. And here I am.
I move to Austin on Thursday. Initially, it looked like I was going to have to make 2 trips, so I wouldn't be moving back for good until Saturday. Those plans have changed, so I'll be back on Thursday. I won't lie, I'm not really excited. My heart still aches for New York. However, it's good to see family again (wish I could see my mom before Labor Day weekend!) and there are friends I'm dying to see, too. Also, it'll be good to get a feel for my neighborhood, and hopefully carve out a safe bike route to campus. I'll get to use Gregory gym, meaning I'll get to run (it's too damn hot to run outside right now, so I've been restricted to my elliptical), and I'll just generally be able to gear up to get back into the swing of things. One more semester - it's kind of crazy, really.
I miss my friends from New York. I especially miss Caroline and Chris, because they were such good pals to me. I miss work and the rest of the people there. I miss the city itself. I miss the double anonymity and attention of it all - I rarely feared walking out my front doors, because I could shove my iPod earbuds in and be immersed in my own world, while turning heads all at the same time. I hope to recapture that confidence in the next two days, because I want to bring the healthy and amazing changes I've made in myself back to Austin. For now, it's time for sleep!
One of the first things I noticed on the plane from Charlotte was the accents. It seems to me that, in many cases, you either completely love the accents of the people who live where you are from, or else you are attracted to any accent that DOESN'T resemble the accents formerly described. I fall into this latter category. I loved the "Joisey" accents, the Long Island accents, the random international accents I would run into in and around New York City. There was something a little dirty about being around the people with southern accents again. I think, more than anything, it was just this instant reminder that I was back.
I'm grappling with the notion right now that I am still, indeed, the girl who lived in New York this summer, who interned at Rolling Stone. I'm having to really remind myself that these experiences are still with me, that they haven't disappeared just because I've changed locations. There is a great sense of loss, a sense of being at a place and time where I'm treading water. So I'm just going to have to come into these last few months at the University of Texas with the same eagerness I approached NYC with. Realistically, it won't be the same, but I will still strive to find the same exciting experiences I found in New York. I'm in a bit of a rut right now, kind of loping around every day, seeing San Antonio buddies here and there, spending time with my dad and our dogs, but mostly just exercising and doing not much else. Talking to my mom today, I realized that this is a natural reaction after so much activity - I need to be lazy and recharge my batteries. The problem is, I'm not enjoying it, because I know there's such a short time limit on this free time. I start school a week from tomorrow, and I want to fit in so many books, so much guitar practicing, so many other activities before then. I just have to work on the balance of everything. Balancing life - it's a tricky thing, and seems to take a lifetime to figure out how to do it.
My last day in New York was a good one. I got up semi-early, and exercised to wake myself up. I did some laundry and started to pack. Then it was off to the movies. I caught "It Might Get Loud," the documentary with Jack White, the Edge and Jimmy Page, and it was stupendous. Plus, during the previews, the trailer for "Where The Wild Things Are" came on (an extended one I had never seen before that doesn't seem to be posted online), and I wept. Openly and in a big way. It felt amazing, especially since I was attending the movie alone. It felt free and rejuvenating, just a really nice moment. After the documentary, I rushed home, had dinner, did some more packing and cleaning, and walked briskly the twenty-five miles and 4ish avenues to the entrance of Central Park where Summerstage was. Unfortunately, the venue was already full, but I could hear a song I recognized playing. I walked around to the back of the venue, and stood by the gate and just listened to Ms. Martha Wainwright sing her beautiful tunes, and I could just see the ballet dancers' hands waving in the air as they accompanied her music. There was an intermission, during which they let some more people inside, so I rushed in hoping to just catch a glimpse of that lovely fresh Wainwright visage. No dice - when the dancers came back on, they were being accompanied by a CD track, and I couldn't wait any longer - had to run to the dorm to check out. I did that, bought some water, and tried to get a little sleep. After about an hour of the stuff, I woke up, showered and dressed, grabbed my things, and headed for the shuttle.
The shuttle to Newark was crazy, but it got me there bright and early at 4am and I was grateful. I leisurely checked myself in, settled into a seat, and read a little, trying to stay awake. The trip back was uneventful, which I completely appreciated. And here I am.
I move to Austin on Thursday. Initially, it looked like I was going to have to make 2 trips, so I wouldn't be moving back for good until Saturday. Those plans have changed, so I'll be back on Thursday. I won't lie, I'm not really excited. My heart still aches for New York. However, it's good to see family again (wish I could see my mom before Labor Day weekend!) and there are friends I'm dying to see, too. Also, it'll be good to get a feel for my neighborhood, and hopefully carve out a safe bike route to campus. I'll get to use Gregory gym, meaning I'll get to run (it's too damn hot to run outside right now, so I've been restricted to my elliptical), and I'll just generally be able to gear up to get back into the swing of things. One more semester - it's kind of crazy, really.
I miss my friends from New York. I especially miss Caroline and Chris, because they were such good pals to me. I miss work and the rest of the people there. I miss the city itself. I miss the double anonymity and attention of it all - I rarely feared walking out my front doors, because I could shove my iPod earbuds in and be immersed in my own world, while turning heads all at the same time. I hope to recapture that confidence in the next two days, because I want to bring the healthy and amazing changes I've made in myself back to Austin. For now, it's time for sleep!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
'Cause tramps like us, baby we were born to run.
Today was my last day as a summer 2009 intern at Rolling Stone.
It was a busy day, really almost a day like any other. Except this day began with me checking in with Human Resources to make sure all my papers were in order, and ended with me turning in my Rolling Stone badge to them. I said goodbye to my boss-in-the-office, Caryn, and almost wept. This summer has just been so mind-blowingly amazing, I couldn't help myself. These people have changed my life. I wore the same outfit I wore on my first day at work - not necessarily on purpose, but I realized this morning and it seemed right. After work, after the brief almost-teary goodbyes, after waving to the fabulous Rob Sheffield one final time, I got my things together and headed out with my lovely co-interns. We went to dinner at a nearby burger joint (that had veggie burgers!) and we chatted and settled into the idea that the summer is almost over. I'm still getting used to the idea that I'm going back to Texas in just over 24 hours, really. It's hard, it's sad, it's exciting and fun. It's lots of things all at once.
I'm sure I have updates for you, like spending time with Jason Soudah wandering around New York and getting delicious hot chocolate, like rapping with Caroline yesterday for some crazy project that I pray doesn't make me a sadly-unfortunate viral internet star, like soaking in the last of the city. I'm getting a bit sick, and I'm hoping it holds off for one more day - tomorrow I'd like to hit up Strawberry Fields/the Dakota apartments, see "It Might Get Loud," do my laundry and pack, and see Martha Wainwright at Summerstage. If I don't get to do all of it, it's ok, 'cause I'll be back. There's tons more to say, but it's bedtime.
It was a busy day, really almost a day like any other. Except this day began with me checking in with Human Resources to make sure all my papers were in order, and ended with me turning in my Rolling Stone badge to them. I said goodbye to my boss-in-the-office, Caryn, and almost wept. This summer has just been so mind-blowingly amazing, I couldn't help myself. These people have changed my life. I wore the same outfit I wore on my first day at work - not necessarily on purpose, but I realized this morning and it seemed right. After work, after the brief almost-teary goodbyes, after waving to the fabulous Rob Sheffield one final time, I got my things together and headed out with my lovely co-interns. We went to dinner at a nearby burger joint (that had veggie burgers!) and we chatted and settled into the idea that the summer is almost over. I'm still getting used to the idea that I'm going back to Texas in just over 24 hours, really. It's hard, it's sad, it's exciting and fun. It's lots of things all at once.
I'm sure I have updates for you, like spending time with Jason Soudah wandering around New York and getting delicious hot chocolate, like rapping with Caroline yesterday for some crazy project that I pray doesn't make me a sadly-unfortunate viral internet star, like soaking in the last of the city. I'm getting a bit sick, and I'm hoping it holds off for one more day - tomorrow I'd like to hit up Strawberry Fields/the Dakota apartments, see "It Might Get Loud," do my laundry and pack, and see Martha Wainwright at Summerstage. If I don't get to do all of it, it's ok, 'cause I'll be back. There's tons more to say, but it's bedtime.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Leap and the net will appear.
I'm leaving this city in less than a week. As a matter of fact, at this time next week, I'll be sitting around with my dad in San Antonio, probably doing laundry and petting the dogs and trying not to be too heartbroken. Today, some scary things happened that reminded me that New York City isn't perfect, and it's a little dangerous, but some other things happened that reminded me that when you take the leap, the net will appear. Tons happened this past week, and unfortunately, I can't go into super-detail with some of it, because I think it's supposed to be a little secretive. Still, I'll give you what I can.
The work week was great this week. I met up with Erica and talked about how she got to where she was, plus any advice she could give me for my own future. I'm going to stop by HR this week to make sure they have all of the paperwork they need to keep me on file for a possible position in the future, should one open up. I'm also planning on getting a l'il somethin' for Erica, because she has been the best boss I could possibly ever imagine. Working with her is stupendous, because she's super supportive and sweet, but she also has high expectations of us which pushes us to do our best. We had our last luncheon this week, at which we got tons of hilarious and fascinating stories about the stars behind the Rolling Stone covers.
Thursday was unreal. All I can disclose is this: Adam Lambert walked by me while I was sitting at my desk, and then another celeb was in the office because he was in town, and if you want to know more, you'll have to ask. Even then, I can only say so much until stuff from that interaction becomes public. I know, super cryptic and I am so sorry, but just know this - it was the best imaginable cap to this incredible summer at Rolling Stone. I've still got three final days, but I consider Thursday's events to be my send-off, and what a send-off it was.
I woke up at 1:45a.m. Friday morning to go with the roommate and her pal Pam to wait outside of the Today show for the second time - this time, it was for Jason Mraz. He performed beautifully, despite being a bit sick/losing his voice a little, and he was so generous and sweet to fans, signing autographs and taking pictures. Toca was still Toca, which made my heart happy, as he is the only one from the original clan to be with Mraz. For those who missed the show, the J-man performed "I'm Yours," a reggae'd-out "The Remedy," and "Make It Mine." Freakin' awesome. Then, I trudged home, slept for three hours, and headed back out to meet Caroline. We met up outside of the RS office, and then took the F train to Brooklyn. I love the trains to Brooklyn, because they take you above ground, which is always my favorite part. We hopped off at 7th Ave, and wandered around looking for a good-looking pizza place with seats. We found one, chowed down, and then wandered back up to Prospect Park. The neighborhood we were in was fantastic, really beautiful brownstones. Caroline guessed they were 12 million bucks, which is just PAINful. Still, gorgeous! Anywho, the park was beautiful and there were chairs set up for the "free" ($3 "donation" they pretty much guilt you into) Celebrate Brooklyn! show, and we ended up as close as we could possibly sit, in the smack-dab middle. Sitting on chairs felt SO nice, and then the music began. Jones Street Station was pretty OK; there were 5 guys who could each play their instruments very well, but they were a little too cutesy and the lyrics were a little airy. Then, the band we were kind of there for came on - Deer Tick. They were the same kind of folk rock/alt country band, but with much more grit and more life-stained lyrics, which is exactly what I wanted. They were fantastic, just brilliant, and the best part was that the lead singer proposed to his also-singer girlfriend when she joined him to sing a duet. SO. CUTE. I've never seen something like that before, and it was magical being a part of it. Then, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals came on, and Grace is amazing. She's like Duffy, if Duffy sang Jenny Lewis' tunes. She has this incredible voice that just booms out of her, but her music is much more Nanci Griffith-ish (instead of bluesy pop like Duffy's.)
Then today, I got up early so I could work out and then head to Greenwich to meet up with my pal Jason Soudah. It's always a complete treat to spend time with him, and we waxed poetic on life while we wandered around the city. We tried on numerous hats, and one fit me PERFECTLY and was SO begging for me to buy it, but I didn't have the cash on me and I am really having to pinch pennies here at the end, so I'll just have to wait until I get home and find something equally stupendous. I definitely feel like I'd like to start wearing a hat or something - just some kind of accessory, since I never wear anything but jeans and tees and stuff. The scary parts of today were these: apparently, a plane and helicopter collided over the Hudson, which is super sad and scary, and then when I was just about to walk into my building this evening, a block and a half away, two cars hit each other and I think possibly even hit a pedestrian (it's hard to say, but an hour later I walked past the collision on the way to the grocery store and got chills when I saw a baseball cap just lying in the street). It definitely reminded me to be aware of my surroundings.
I am definitely a bit exhausted from all of this activity, so tomorrow my plan is to sleep in, take it super slow in the morning (read/stretch out/watch TV/other relaxing things) and then, if I'm feeling up for it, go for a run, and then grab what will hopefully be my last batch of groceries. On the list: cereal, yogurt, bagels, spread. The first two are for breakfasts, the second two for lunch. I've tried to pack sandwiches, but I've just ended up hating the types of bread I've been buying. Hopefully the bagel idea will help me out with this. My brain is all kinds of scattered right now. I have loved this summer more than I can stress, and I will miss this place terribly. On the other hand, I'm incredibly excited to see where life will take me next. Will I move straight back here? Will I end up in a brand new city that I've never explored before? Will I travel around? Will I write for a big publication, or do everything at a start up? Will I work for a record label, or managing a band? Will I be in a band? Will my drum lessons lead to a crazy and incredible music career? The only things I can guarantee are, I will do something I love, I will spend as much time as possible with the people I adore, and I will be open to it all. "There is no 'someday,' life is now. This is it."
The work week was great this week. I met up with Erica and talked about how she got to where she was, plus any advice she could give me for my own future. I'm going to stop by HR this week to make sure they have all of the paperwork they need to keep me on file for a possible position in the future, should one open up. I'm also planning on getting a l'il somethin' for Erica, because she has been the best boss I could possibly ever imagine. Working with her is stupendous, because she's super supportive and sweet, but she also has high expectations of us which pushes us to do our best. We had our last luncheon this week, at which we got tons of hilarious and fascinating stories about the stars behind the Rolling Stone covers.
Thursday was unreal. All I can disclose is this: Adam Lambert walked by me while I was sitting at my desk, and then another celeb was in the office because he was in town, and if you want to know more, you'll have to ask. Even then, I can only say so much until stuff from that interaction becomes public. I know, super cryptic and I am so sorry, but just know this - it was the best imaginable cap to this incredible summer at Rolling Stone. I've still got three final days, but I consider Thursday's events to be my send-off, and what a send-off it was.
I woke up at 1:45a.m. Friday morning to go with the roommate and her pal Pam to wait outside of the Today show for the second time - this time, it was for Jason Mraz. He performed beautifully, despite being a bit sick/losing his voice a little, and he was so generous and sweet to fans, signing autographs and taking pictures. Toca was still Toca, which made my heart happy, as he is the only one from the original clan to be with Mraz. For those who missed the show, the J-man performed "I'm Yours," a reggae'd-out "The Remedy," and "Make It Mine." Freakin' awesome. Then, I trudged home, slept for three hours, and headed back out to meet Caroline. We met up outside of the RS office, and then took the F train to Brooklyn. I love the trains to Brooklyn, because they take you above ground, which is always my favorite part. We hopped off at 7th Ave, and wandered around looking for a good-looking pizza place with seats. We found one, chowed down, and then wandered back up to Prospect Park. The neighborhood we were in was fantastic, really beautiful brownstones. Caroline guessed they were 12 million bucks, which is just PAINful. Still, gorgeous! Anywho, the park was beautiful and there were chairs set up for the "free" ($3 "donation" they pretty much guilt you into) Celebrate Brooklyn! show, and we ended up as close as we could possibly sit, in the smack-dab middle. Sitting on chairs felt SO nice, and then the music began. Jones Street Station was pretty OK; there were 5 guys who could each play their instruments very well, but they were a little too cutesy and the lyrics were a little airy. Then, the band we were kind of there for came on - Deer Tick. They were the same kind of folk rock/alt country band, but with much more grit and more life-stained lyrics, which is exactly what I wanted. They were fantastic, just brilliant, and the best part was that the lead singer proposed to his also-singer girlfriend when she joined him to sing a duet. SO. CUTE. I've never seen something like that before, and it was magical being a part of it. Then, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals came on, and Grace is amazing. She's like Duffy, if Duffy sang Jenny Lewis' tunes. She has this incredible voice that just booms out of her, but her music is much more Nanci Griffith-ish (instead of bluesy pop like Duffy's.)
Then today, I got up early so I could work out and then head to Greenwich to meet up with my pal Jason Soudah. It's always a complete treat to spend time with him, and we waxed poetic on life while we wandered around the city. We tried on numerous hats, and one fit me PERFECTLY and was SO begging for me to buy it, but I didn't have the cash on me and I am really having to pinch pennies here at the end, so I'll just have to wait until I get home and find something equally stupendous. I definitely feel like I'd like to start wearing a hat or something - just some kind of accessory, since I never wear anything but jeans and tees and stuff. The scary parts of today were these: apparently, a plane and helicopter collided over the Hudson, which is super sad and scary, and then when I was just about to walk into my building this evening, a block and a half away, two cars hit each other and I think possibly even hit a pedestrian (it's hard to say, but an hour later I walked past the collision on the way to the grocery store and got chills when I saw a baseball cap just lying in the street). It definitely reminded me to be aware of my surroundings.
I am definitely a bit exhausted from all of this activity, so tomorrow my plan is to sleep in, take it super slow in the morning (read/stretch out/watch TV/other relaxing things) and then, if I'm feeling up for it, go for a run, and then grab what will hopefully be my last batch of groceries. On the list: cereal, yogurt, bagels, spread. The first two are for breakfasts, the second two for lunch. I've tried to pack sandwiches, but I've just ended up hating the types of bread I've been buying. Hopefully the bagel idea will help me out with this. My brain is all kinds of scattered right now. I have loved this summer more than I can stress, and I will miss this place terribly. On the other hand, I'm incredibly excited to see where life will take me next. Will I move straight back here? Will I end up in a brand new city that I've never explored before? Will I travel around? Will I write for a big publication, or do everything at a start up? Will I work for a record label, or managing a band? Will I be in a band? Will my drum lessons lead to a crazy and incredible music career? The only things I can guarantee are, I will do something I love, I will spend as much time as possible with the people I adore, and I will be open to it all. "There is no 'someday,' life is now. This is it."
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Make way, whatever will be will be...
My mind is a blur of past events. This week was insanity, as I've been to three free concerts within the past three days. INSANITY! OK, so I believe we left off near the beginning of the week...
Work was good this week, although I can't remember anything crazy happening. I also don't particularly remember what I did AFTER work this week. Laundry, and reading, I think. It's been nice to just kind of come home and mostly RELAX. I've been pretty good about keeping up with my internship-course journal, although I'm one entry behind at the moment. Still, I have the rest of today and tomorrow to write it up, and then just ONE more week to write up before I ship it off this upcoming Friday. Then it's one more week...
Thursday after work, I bought groceries, made dinner, and went to sleep IMMEDIATELY after eating. My alarm went off at 11:30 and I managed to only hit snooze once. Then I was up and showering, packing my purse with the goodies I wanted (Wheat Thins, a bottle of water, two magazines and a Sudoku book) and I met up with Kate at the subway. We headed to the Today show area at around 1:15 a.m. and were there by 2. We got into the "fan pass" line, and there were only 3 people in front of us. We sat down on the sidewalk, and rested, chatted and slept on the ground in the middle of New York City for the rest of the night, into the morning. It was the first time I ever camped out for anything, and it was AWESOME. We met so many kooky characters! There were two guys who approached us, kinda bro-ish looking fellows, and told us they had a condo and we could come up and watch the show with them if we wanted. They said they were awaked to early-morning soundchecks every single Friday. It was funny, but we declined. My only regret was not asking them to use their bathroom, because it would have probably been cleaner than the McDonalds restroom I ended up using around the corner (eeeewwy). Then, three German guys (probably in their late teens) came and sat on the street with us, asking us if they had missed the party. Adorable. We chatted with them for a while, probably an hour - turns out, they were on their way to Jamaica for vacation, and originally were going to fly out of Frankfurt straight there, but had either missed their flight or weather had forced them to switch, so now they had flown into NYC at 9pm and were grabbing a connecting flight at 4am to Miami, and from there, they'd get to their final destination. They had decided it didn't make sense to get a hotel room, so they were out exploring the city. While they were with us, a trash guy came up to ask us who we were waiting for, and when he hadn't heard of the band I showed him my copy of Rolling Stone with the Kings of Leon on the cover. He shook his head and said, "Nope, I just don't know!" After the Germans left, Kate and I laid down and she napped. I closed my eyes and listened to the summer night sounds, and felt a little grimy but totally content. At 5:30am, they checked us in and let us into the venue, which is basically just an open paved area that they organized with tons of gates. We were super close in front of the stage, and then of course it began to rain. At first it was light enough, and I had been warm and sticky enough, to where I enjoyed it and left my umbrella in my purse, but when it started to pick up, I took my umbrella out. I stayed dry for as long as I could, but when the Followill boys took the stage for a sound check, everyone called for umbrellas to come down so they could see, and I went ahead and obliged. Unfortunately, taking one's umbrella down meant water that had collected on it pouring down on everyone in the surrounding area. We were soaking wet, but singing every lyric at the top of our lungs. Fabulous. The guys played all three songs they would play for the show, and then left the stage hurriedly to change clothes and probably drink or do whatever else rockstars do before shows. The show came on at 7am, and when you're standing in the filming area, you can watch the show on TVs up on the side of a building, and there are speakers surrounding you so you can hear everything. People freaked out when Al Roker came out to do his weather thang, and of course there was one last downpour that soaked me through to the bone before the weather finally decided to get awesome for the rest of the show. I saw Meredith Vieira and all the others up close, which was fun, and we even managed to collect a silly foam microphone as a souvenir. Before we headed into the venue, I forgot to mention that they gave us poster material, and so Kate and I made signs. Hers was for her mom - it said "I <3 Terri Grady," and mine said "Austin <3s K.O.L." The Kings are all Sooners, which I think adds a special bit of irony to my poster:-P I ended up doing a write-up of the show, which I didn't think would get posted, but it was totally posted. AWE-SOME. Then, exhausted me got my butt in gear, put on some fresh clothes, and headed to the office to meet up with my co-worker and friend, Chris, to go to an acoustic Silversun Pickups performance that he won tickets for. We got there a couple hours in advance, and managed to make it inside before the rain hit again (thank goodness!!) The room was SUPER tiny, as there were only 200 of us there. It was SO great, and the crowd was good - there was just a great vibe there. There were also pictures taken, and they snapped one of Chris and me. We matched, which was pretty hilarious to my other RS co-workers. Anywho, the Silversun Pickups were AMAZING. Dead-on, sound-wise, and such a GREAT repore with the audience. It was just a fun show, and Chris' write-up made the website, too! After this, I headed home, ate dinner, and SLEPT.
Yesterday was awesome as well, because after sleeping in, working out and takin' it easy, I headed to Central Park's Summerstage and sat in line for three hours to be right up against the stage for M. Ward. We were SO close, which made it UNBEARABLY awful that we weren't allowed to take any photos. But the sound was great and it was great to be near. The opening band SUCKED - "Floored by Four," Mike Watt and Nels Cline(from Wilco)'s experimental group. Excruciatingly boring. It was this weird psychedelic crap that just went on and on and on. But then Ward absolutely destroyed. He played one of my most favorite tunes, "Chinese Translation." He also did a bunch of covers, the rockin'-est being Chuck Berry's "Roll Over Beethoven." It was a beautiful night, I was hanging with two fab ladies (Kate and Angelica) and then I headed home, had some sweet ice cream, and passed OUT. Today, it's super rainy so I'm doubting I'll get to do any of the other free events I was planning to hit up. I'm about to go for a run, and then just play it by ear, methinks.
I'm devestated that I've got just two weeks left here. It's unimaginable to me. It's flown by so quickly, and although I'm definitely looking forward to things back in Austin, I'm going to be homesick for New York. It's so strange, I was even telling Kate this morning - I've been following the Austin American-Statesman on Twitter, and there have been so many shootings and fires and everything else there, it almost feels safer here! (Crazy, no?) I'm gonna miss beautiful Central Park, I'm gonna miss hiding away in my room when I feel like it, but going out and doing fun crap whenever I dont. I'm going to miss work most of all, although I am starting to almost feel closure there. Don't get me wrong, I'm DYING to get a steady job with RS, but as for this summer, I have accomplished everything I set out to - I have one reporting credit, and an actual story credited to my name. I've done really excellent work. I've met Rob Sheffield and chatted with him about crazy stuff. I saw Conor Oberst on the 4th of July from very close range. I've been to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex. Those were the "must do"s. And along the way, I've grown so much and learned so much more about myself. I know that no matter where I end up when I graduate, if I love working there as much as I've loved working here this summer, life is going to be amazing.
Work was good this week, although I can't remember anything crazy happening. I also don't particularly remember what I did AFTER work this week. Laundry, and reading, I think. It's been nice to just kind of come home and mostly RELAX. I've been pretty good about keeping up with my internship-course journal, although I'm one entry behind at the moment. Still, I have the rest of today and tomorrow to write it up, and then just ONE more week to write up before I ship it off this upcoming Friday. Then it's one more week...
Thursday after work, I bought groceries, made dinner, and went to sleep IMMEDIATELY after eating. My alarm went off at 11:30 and I managed to only hit snooze once. Then I was up and showering, packing my purse with the goodies I wanted (Wheat Thins, a bottle of water, two magazines and a Sudoku book) and I met up with Kate at the subway. We headed to the Today show area at around 1:15 a.m. and were there by 2. We got into the "fan pass" line, and there were only 3 people in front of us. We sat down on the sidewalk, and rested, chatted and slept on the ground in the middle of New York City for the rest of the night, into the morning. It was the first time I ever camped out for anything, and it was AWESOME. We met so many kooky characters! There were two guys who approached us, kinda bro-ish looking fellows, and told us they had a condo and we could come up and watch the show with them if we wanted. They said they were awaked to early-morning soundchecks every single Friday. It was funny, but we declined. My only regret was not asking them to use their bathroom, because it would have probably been cleaner than the McDonalds restroom I ended up using around the corner (eeeewwy). Then, three German guys (probably in their late teens) came and sat on the street with us, asking us if they had missed the party. Adorable. We chatted with them for a while, probably an hour - turns out, they were on their way to Jamaica for vacation, and originally were going to fly out of Frankfurt straight there, but had either missed their flight or weather had forced them to switch, so now they had flown into NYC at 9pm and were grabbing a connecting flight at 4am to Miami, and from there, they'd get to their final destination. They had decided it didn't make sense to get a hotel room, so they were out exploring the city. While they were with us, a trash guy came up to ask us who we were waiting for, and when he hadn't heard of the band I showed him my copy of Rolling Stone with the Kings of Leon on the cover. He shook his head and said, "Nope, I just don't know!" After the Germans left, Kate and I laid down and she napped. I closed my eyes and listened to the summer night sounds, and felt a little grimy but totally content. At 5:30am, they checked us in and let us into the venue, which is basically just an open paved area that they organized with tons of gates. We were super close in front of the stage, and then of course it began to rain. At first it was light enough, and I had been warm and sticky enough, to where I enjoyed it and left my umbrella in my purse, but when it started to pick up, I took my umbrella out. I stayed dry for as long as I could, but when the Followill boys took the stage for a sound check, everyone called for umbrellas to come down so they could see, and I went ahead and obliged. Unfortunately, taking one's umbrella down meant water that had collected on it pouring down on everyone in the surrounding area. We were soaking wet, but singing every lyric at the top of our lungs. Fabulous. The guys played all three songs they would play for the show, and then left the stage hurriedly to change clothes and probably drink or do whatever else rockstars do before shows. The show came on at 7am, and when you're standing in the filming area, you can watch the show on TVs up on the side of a building, and there are speakers surrounding you so you can hear everything. People freaked out when Al Roker came out to do his weather thang, and of course there was one last downpour that soaked me through to the bone before the weather finally decided to get awesome for the rest of the show. I saw Meredith Vieira and all the others up close, which was fun, and we even managed to collect a silly foam microphone as a souvenir. Before we headed into the venue, I forgot to mention that they gave us poster material, and so Kate and I made signs. Hers was for her mom - it said "I <3 Terri Grady," and mine said "Austin <3s K.O.L." The Kings are all Sooners, which I think adds a special bit of irony to my poster:-P I ended up doing a write-up of the show, which I didn't think would get posted, but it was totally posted. AWE-SOME. Then, exhausted me got my butt in gear, put on some fresh clothes, and headed to the office to meet up with my co-worker and friend, Chris, to go to an acoustic Silversun Pickups performance that he won tickets for. We got there a couple hours in advance, and managed to make it inside before the rain hit again (thank goodness!!) The room was SUPER tiny, as there were only 200 of us there. It was SO great, and the crowd was good - there was just a great vibe there. There were also pictures taken, and they snapped one of Chris and me. We matched, which was pretty hilarious to my other RS co-workers. Anywho, the Silversun Pickups were AMAZING. Dead-on, sound-wise, and such a GREAT repore with the audience. It was just a fun show, and Chris' write-up made the website, too! After this, I headed home, ate dinner, and SLEPT.
Yesterday was awesome as well, because after sleeping in, working out and takin' it easy, I headed to Central Park's Summerstage and sat in line for three hours to be right up against the stage for M. Ward. We were SO close, which made it UNBEARABLY awful that we weren't allowed to take any photos. But the sound was great and it was great to be near. The opening band SUCKED - "Floored by Four," Mike Watt and Nels Cline(from Wilco)'s experimental group. Excruciatingly boring. It was this weird psychedelic crap that just went on and on and on. But then Ward absolutely destroyed. He played one of my most favorite tunes, "Chinese Translation." He also did a bunch of covers, the rockin'-est being Chuck Berry's "Roll Over Beethoven." It was a beautiful night, I was hanging with two fab ladies (Kate and Angelica) and then I headed home, had some sweet ice cream, and passed OUT. Today, it's super rainy so I'm doubting I'll get to do any of the other free events I was planning to hit up. I'm about to go for a run, and then just play it by ear, methinks.
I'm devestated that I've got just two weeks left here. It's unimaginable to me. It's flown by so quickly, and although I'm definitely looking forward to things back in Austin, I'm going to be homesick for New York. It's so strange, I was even telling Kate this morning - I've been following the Austin American-Statesman on Twitter, and there have been so many shootings and fires and everything else there, it almost feels safer here! (Crazy, no?) I'm gonna miss beautiful Central Park, I'm gonna miss hiding away in my room when I feel like it, but going out and doing fun crap whenever I dont. I'm going to miss work most of all, although I am starting to almost feel closure there. Don't get me wrong, I'm DYING to get a steady job with RS, but as for this summer, I have accomplished everything I set out to - I have one reporting credit, and an actual story credited to my name. I've done really excellent work. I've met Rob Sheffield and chatted with him about crazy stuff. I saw Conor Oberst on the 4th of July from very close range. I've been to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annex. Those were the "must do"s. And along the way, I've grown so much and learned so much more about myself. I know that no matter where I end up when I graduate, if I love working there as much as I've loved working here this summer, life is going to be amazing.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Tell me, whatcha gonna do now?
Hilarious discovery of the day: my blonde, banging head can be seen in this video taken at Conor Oberst's performance on the 4th of July (you can finally see for realz how close I was!) Watch the right corner of your screen, and you'll see me in the beginning and again near the end. I'm probably in more videos by this YouTube user (she has 5 more videos recorded from the show), so if you have time and wanna go Caitlin hunting, feel free.
Mother Superior jumped the gun.
I'm going to divert a little today from the normal "this is what I'm up to" post, because I was linked to the following article by a friend, and I'd love some outside perspective on this:
Spinning in the Grave
Weiner allows for the fact that music journalists do still carry some weight because there's just so much music to shift through, and he definitely seems to think music journalism can still be worth it. But he also makes good points as to why music journalism seems to be falling on really rough times. As this is my profession of choice, I wanna know - do you follow music journalism, and why? I skimmed through the two comments left on the article, and I'll be going back to those to try and pull in as many users' opinions as possible.
I'm trying to brainstorm now - what would be some improvements to make m.j. more appealing? Focus on the interviews/profiles, stay away from reviews? I still like to read a good review when I have time. I definitely think, for my generation, that time is a huge issue. Why read through a bunch of reviews, when (as Weiner points out) I can spend that time listening to the music myself, streaming from MySpace or in 30-second clips on iTunes? I love to read and watch interviews (when they are done well) of my favorite musicians, but time is still an issue there. I'm just more LIKELY to read an interview, I think. Granted, I do feel like some of my colleagues who have recently graduated do have some downtime, but is that time spent reading magazines, or is it more likely to be filled with television programming? I have lots of questions, and I'm definitely lacking in the answers department. Anyway, I just wanted to throw this out there as a general question. What do you think?
Spinning in the Grave
Weiner allows for the fact that music journalists do still carry some weight because there's just so much music to shift through, and he definitely seems to think music journalism can still be worth it. But he also makes good points as to why music journalism seems to be falling on really rough times. As this is my profession of choice, I wanna know - do you follow music journalism, and why? I skimmed through the two comments left on the article, and I'll be going back to those to try and pull in as many users' opinions as possible.
I'm trying to brainstorm now - what would be some improvements to make m.j. more appealing? Focus on the interviews/profiles, stay away from reviews? I still like to read a good review when I have time. I definitely think, for my generation, that time is a huge issue. Why read through a bunch of reviews, when (as Weiner points out) I can spend that time listening to the music myself, streaming from MySpace or in 30-second clips on iTunes? I love to read and watch interviews (when they are done well) of my favorite musicians, but time is still an issue there. I'm just more LIKELY to read an interview, I think. Granted, I do feel like some of my colleagues who have recently graduated do have some downtime, but is that time spent reading magazines, or is it more likely to be filled with television programming? I have lots of questions, and I'm definitely lacking in the answers department. Anyway, I just wanted to throw this out there as a general question. What do you think?
Monday, July 27, 2009
As the days keep turning into night.
What a week!! I did so, so much, and am using today to unwind and relax a bit. I'm gonna go for a run soonish, and then will shower and hopefully get a chance to meet up with Raquel today. Definitely psyched for that, I've missed seeing her. Really, this whole week was pretty much Trip-centric, which was awesome but I kept telling him, "You probably think I have no friends here because we've hardly run into any!!" He did get to meet 1/2 of my roommate situation, Melissa, and we had dinner with Jade last night which was way too much fun. It was great sharing my city with another Austinite, but I'm also glad to have it to myself again for these last three weeks.
Wednesday. was. incredible. Caroline and I hit up the luncheon early (right at noon) and were the first two people to sit down. Natch, we sat on either side of the table, right next to the three speakers, and wished that *we* would be the lucky ones to sit next to Rob Sheffield. Austin Scaggs sat in the middle of the trio, and Jenny Eliscu sat next to Caroline, leaving Rob's seat next to me. He came in late, but when he did arrive, he pulled his chair out and was literally sitting right alongside of me. It was crazy and awesome. I asked a question, which made me feel good because I did want to interact more with Scaggs and Eliscu, too; they were SO AWESOME! When they described what qualities a good music journalist should have, I felt like they were describing me. It made me so excited, and also more determined than ever to learn more about the history of rock and pop music. After the luncheon, I turned to Rob and said, "Hey there, I was wondering..." He stopped me and said, "Hey, how are you doing?!?" I was so overwhelmed, I said, "I'm really great, thanks! How are you??" and he responded "Awesome!" This made me feel sure that he recognized me from our first meeting, which made me really happy. I asked him if he could possibly sign my copy of his memoir, Love is a Mixtape, and then Caroline headed around the table to have her book signed, too. We laughed and told him, "You've got a fan club in the online department!!" Sarah came over at that point to be included in the fan club, and then Rob turned to me and said, "Caitlin, how do you spell your name?" I almost wept when Caroline and I were leaving the luncheon. He REMEMBERED MY NAME, for goodness' sake!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Siiiiigh. We chatted about various Lifetime movies and other things, and then I tried to corral the group away from him so he could go about his day's work. Before the four of us who stuck around left, though, he invited us to befriend him on Facebook. So, yes, I'm officially Facebook friends with Rob Sheffield. I can die happy (but I hope I live on to meet more amazing people like him! Also, need to earn the friendship of Austin and Jenny now, too!)
Thursday was a good day where I got to bond with Chris during work, and then Friday, Trip and I hit up the Met, which was epic. I loved the Egyptian and modern art, although I could do without Francis Bacon, to be honest. We had dinner at a Mexican restaurant, which was pretty tasty. Then Saturday, we hit up Grand Central and the Brooklyn Bridge, the latter of which was super cool. We had dinner at "our" place again, Two Boots Pizza in Greenwhich, and then we hit up Strand books for a third time. We ended up in Washington Square after that, and watched some street performers do their thing. Sunday was the Guggenheim, which made me realize I'm not really a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright at all. I like a few things he did, but since he seems to be the inspiration behind so much of the boxy architecture of modern America - no thanks, no thanks. I like that he opened up the inside of houses, dislike that structures turned angular. I preferred the ornate and delicate.
Then we went to Times Square to pick up some souvenirs for his buds, and then we scrapped plans for a trip to MoMA because of exhaustion. We grabbed dinner with Jade at a burger place (they had veggie stuff, natch,) and then headed home. He went out again at around 11 with his friend Badger, and then he left early this morning.
It's been a crazy week for me, mentally. I am still settling into the lifestyle I know that I want and need to lead, but it's still difficult when I see so many pictures of what I "should" be around me. That's super cryptic, and I apologize - if you're curious, you can ask me.
OK, I think I need to get my run on so I can be ready for Raquel, should she have time to meet up! Then I've got plans to get a little grocery shoppin' done, and then get to bed early for work tomorrow. These days go by faster and faster.
Wednesday. was. incredible. Caroline and I hit up the luncheon early (right at noon) and were the first two people to sit down. Natch, we sat on either side of the table, right next to the three speakers, and wished that *we* would be the lucky ones to sit next to Rob Sheffield. Austin Scaggs sat in the middle of the trio, and Jenny Eliscu sat next to Caroline, leaving Rob's seat next to me. He came in late, but when he did arrive, he pulled his chair out and was literally sitting right alongside of me. It was crazy and awesome. I asked a question, which made me feel good because I did want to interact more with Scaggs and Eliscu, too; they were SO AWESOME! When they described what qualities a good music journalist should have, I felt like they were describing me. It made me so excited, and also more determined than ever to learn more about the history of rock and pop music. After the luncheon, I turned to Rob and said, "Hey there, I was wondering..." He stopped me and said, "Hey, how are you doing?!?" I was so overwhelmed, I said, "I'm really great, thanks! How are you??" and he responded "Awesome!" This made me feel sure that he recognized me from our first meeting, which made me really happy. I asked him if he could possibly sign my copy of his memoir, Love is a Mixtape, and then Caroline headed around the table to have her book signed, too. We laughed and told him, "You've got a fan club in the online department!!" Sarah came over at that point to be included in the fan club, and then Rob turned to me and said, "Caitlin, how do you spell your name?" I almost wept when Caroline and I were leaving the luncheon. He REMEMBERED MY NAME, for goodness' sake!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Siiiiigh. We chatted about various Lifetime movies and other things, and then I tried to corral the group away from him so he could go about his day's work. Before the four of us who stuck around left, though, he invited us to befriend him on Facebook. So, yes, I'm officially Facebook friends with Rob Sheffield. I can die happy (but I hope I live on to meet more amazing people like him! Also, need to earn the friendship of Austin and Jenny now, too!)
Thursday was a good day where I got to bond with Chris during work, and then Friday, Trip and I hit up the Met, which was epic. I loved the Egyptian and modern art, although I could do without Francis Bacon, to be honest. We had dinner at a Mexican restaurant, which was pretty tasty. Then Saturday, we hit up Grand Central and the Brooklyn Bridge, the latter of which was super cool. We had dinner at "our" place again, Two Boots Pizza in Greenwhich, and then we hit up Strand books for a third time. We ended up in Washington Square after that, and watched some street performers do their thing. Sunday was the Guggenheim, which made me realize I'm not really a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright at all. I like a few things he did, but since he seems to be the inspiration behind so much of the boxy architecture of modern America - no thanks, no thanks. I like that he opened up the inside of houses, dislike that structures turned angular. I preferred the ornate and delicate.
Then we went to Times Square to pick up some souvenirs for his buds, and then we scrapped plans for a trip to MoMA because of exhaustion. We grabbed dinner with Jade at a burger place (they had veggie stuff, natch,) and then headed home. He went out again at around 11 with his friend Badger, and then he left early this morning.
It's been a crazy week for me, mentally. I am still settling into the lifestyle I know that I want and need to lead, but it's still difficult when I see so many pictures of what I "should" be around me. That's super cryptic, and I apologize - if you're curious, you can ask me.
OK, I think I need to get my run on so I can be ready for Raquel, should she have time to meet up! Then I've got plans to get a little grocery shoppin' done, and then get to bed early for work tomorrow. These days go by faster and faster.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
I think you're lonely/But I could be wrong.
I've been feeling super creative lately, but I haven't taken the initiative to write down any of the thoughts or phrases that have come out of my brain. Too bad, too bad. Hopefully I'll be motivated to start doing that more often.
Trip is visiting right now, which is a real treat. We've done all sorts of walking around. We found a great, giant disorganized bookstore in Union Square that we've already been to twice, we found delicious pizza in the area, we went to Crumbs (a cupcake place people have raved to me about). I was a little disappointed in my choice; in retrospect, I should have gone classic vanilla but I went "cookie dough" because it sounded and looked exciting. Not so much. Still, I'm not writing off Crumbs just yet.
We hit up Central Park and walked around the great lawn to the turtle pond. We walked around Times Square. There's been a lot of walking, and he's only been here two days. It's been good!
We also watched "Revolutionary Road" last night, which brought on some bad (and strange) dreams. That was a hard one to watch. So was "(500) Days of Summer," though I loved that one. And I really enjoyed "Harry Potter," though I understand the criticisms I've been hearing.
Tomorrow, I get to meet up with Rob Sheffield again (hopefully!) and I couldn't be more excited. I'm trying to re-read "Love is a Mix Tape" but I doubt I'll get too far (it's already 10:00 p.m. and I've only re-read the first chapter so far). I've had a lot to think about recently, and I like it even though it's difficult sometimes. I like feeling that passionate feeling inside of me when I'm arguing for something I believe in, down to my core. I forgot that feeling, and although it's a little uncomfortable, I want to push for it. It might lead me to try to suppress it, but it's worth fighting for those lively moments. I'm still learning to love myself, and learning what my "style" should be. I've felt this strong rebellious streak in myself recently, and it's made me want a leather jacket VERY badly. However, Edward's voice is right there in the back of my head, reminding me that killing an animal for clothes doesn't make me a badass at all. Still, what other jackets give you that classic sense of rawness? I guess it's time for me to pick my own jacket and redefine it that way. In NOT playing into that trend, I guess I'm rebelling. I am, in fact. Nice one, self. We hit up Urban Outfitters, and although there's a definite part of me that wants to buy into that style, a part of me that looks longingly at the lanky girls with their hippie haircuts and their paisley leggings with their plaid shirts and just wants to BE that, at the end of the day - fuck that. Because I feel on the inside the way they look on the outside, and that's even better. That means that no matter what I put on, it's automatically "indie" because *I,* Caitlin, am indie.
Not sure why I needed to wax poetic on that, but there it is. I cannot believe how quickly the summer is dwindling. Raquel leaves in nine days. I leave in less than a month. I love where I work with my whole being. I hope they love me, too.
I almost closed this post there, but then I couldn't remember if I talked about the Siren Festival in my last post? All I want to say is: sandy beach in New York City, right next to a boardwalk and carnival rides. If that isn't cool, I don't know what is.
Trip is visiting right now, which is a real treat. We've done all sorts of walking around. We found a great, giant disorganized bookstore in Union Square that we've already been to twice, we found delicious pizza in the area, we went to Crumbs (a cupcake place people have raved to me about). I was a little disappointed in my choice; in retrospect, I should have gone classic vanilla but I went "cookie dough" because it sounded and looked exciting. Not so much. Still, I'm not writing off Crumbs just yet.
We hit up Central Park and walked around the great lawn to the turtle pond. We walked around Times Square. There's been a lot of walking, and he's only been here two days. It's been good!
We also watched "Revolutionary Road" last night, which brought on some bad (and strange) dreams. That was a hard one to watch. So was "(500) Days of Summer," though I loved that one. And I really enjoyed "Harry Potter," though I understand the criticisms I've been hearing.
Tomorrow, I get to meet up with Rob Sheffield again (hopefully!) and I couldn't be more excited. I'm trying to re-read "Love is a Mix Tape" but I doubt I'll get too far (it's already 10:00 p.m. and I've only re-read the first chapter so far). I've had a lot to think about recently, and I like it even though it's difficult sometimes. I like feeling that passionate feeling inside of me when I'm arguing for something I believe in, down to my core. I forgot that feeling, and although it's a little uncomfortable, I want to push for it. It might lead me to try to suppress it, but it's worth fighting for those lively moments. I'm still learning to love myself, and learning what my "style" should be. I've felt this strong rebellious streak in myself recently, and it's made me want a leather jacket VERY badly. However, Edward's voice is right there in the back of my head, reminding me that killing an animal for clothes doesn't make me a badass at all. Still, what other jackets give you that classic sense of rawness? I guess it's time for me to pick my own jacket and redefine it that way. In NOT playing into that trend, I guess I'm rebelling. I am, in fact. Nice one, self. We hit up Urban Outfitters, and although there's a definite part of me that wants to buy into that style, a part of me that looks longingly at the lanky girls with their hippie haircuts and their paisley leggings with their plaid shirts and just wants to BE that, at the end of the day - fuck that. Because I feel on the inside the way they look on the outside, and that's even better. That means that no matter what I put on, it's automatically "indie" because *I,* Caitlin, am indie.
Not sure why I needed to wax poetic on that, but there it is. I cannot believe how quickly the summer is dwindling. Raquel leaves in nine days. I leave in less than a month. I love where I work with my whole being. I hope they love me, too.
I almost closed this post there, but then I couldn't remember if I talked about the Siren Festival in my last post? All I want to say is: sandy beach in New York City, right next to a boardwalk and carnival rides. If that isn't cool, I don't know what is.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Oh no! You just got dealt a low-blow in your forbidden craze.
It's been two weeks, and I feel like life has changed SO much just in that short time. Like Raquel said today, "It's like each day is its own world!" She's been won over by New York, and will quite likely be moving back here in a year or so. I told her that would just make me SO happy, because I'd love to have some friends settled here already when I move back. OK, how can I tackle this?
Last Friday, I went to another River 2 River Festival free concert at the South Seaport. Let me backtrack a little. Before that, Caroline and I actually went into work with the other 3 interns even though it was our day off because Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy for the not-quite-superfans) was in for an interview with Peter Travers, our film critic. The interns and our bosses stood around Travers' office, where the interview was held, and took places dressing in wizard garb and quietly/nonchalantly walking around in the background. It was hilarious and brought us all together as a family, I think. When Eric, our film guy, asked Caroline (who used to intern with him) where our own costumes were, I jumped into action and made paper wizard hats out of the covers of magazines sitting around. They were a hit! We gifted one to our exec editor, and he was tickled by the gesture, I think. Then Caroline and I were off to do some vintage shopping, which was fun but unfruitful, and then we grabbed DELICIOUS pizza (the best I've had in the city so far) nearby in the area of Brooklyn we were inhabiting, and then we headed to the South Seaport for the free concert. The setting was beautiful, and although the bands were VERY disappointing (so it goes, sometimes) it was such a gorgeous night that it didn't even matter. It was warm with just the right amount of breeze, and the ships that were the background of our show were too picturesque to be true. A great day, all in all!
Saturday, I met up with Raquel for brunch in Greenwich, and it was delish and so, so much fun. Angelica joined us part way through, and then we headed off to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex in New York. We walked there, which allowed for some nice neighborhood examining. The hall itself was absolutely perfect; I don't think they could have done anything differently. The first room you go into is this kind of holding space you wait in until they are ready for you in the screening room. It has all of the autographs, cast in silver, on the walls, and when certain bands or artists are lit up, their song comes on the overhead. As it gets closer and closer to moving on, the music speeds up and the clips of each song get shorter until they explode into the final chords of "A Day In The Life," my favorite Beatles' song. Brilliant. Then you go into this room that has sort of semi-theater-arena seating, and classic clips from concerts of the legends (Elvis, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, etc.) are screened in front and around you so you feel like you're there. Then you go to the museum, and they give you this headset with a chip inside so that it can sense what part of the exhibit you're in and play music and sound clips accordingly - you don't have to press a thing!! The rock memorobilia they had is too overwhelming to name really, but it includes things like the awning of CBGB's, Bruce Springsteen's first car (!!), letters between Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon, Madonna's cone bra outfit, and SO, so much more. The final room is the special exhibit, which for now is a John Lennon exhibit. It was stupendous. There was old footage of his art films with Yoko Ono, their family films with him and Sean, handwritten lyrics, artwork by Lennon, just amazing artifacts that bring you closer and closer to the artist. Then, finally, on the last wall, there is an "art project" by Yoko that is called "Smile in a Box" that is a mirror inside what amounts to a jewelry box, and a phone that says, "Call for Peace - if it rings, pick it up!" On rare occasions, Yoko herself will call the telephone and wish the receiver peace. I wasn't one of the lucky ones, but it's just such a cool idea. Then, as "Imagine" is playing in your headphones, you get to a canvas where you can sign your name to ask Obama to put more restrictions on weapons to end gun violence. Then you come to a paper sack encased in a plastic bag. Within, John Lennon's bloody clothes that the police gave to Yoko after they finished with them sit. Though you can't see the clothes, you see the blood stains on the tape on the bag. At this point, I started to weep. Then, when I moved to my left, there was a picture Yoko took of John's bloody glasses in the window of their apartment. I sobbed openly. It was just so overwhelming, to think that such a creative soul was lost to such bloody violence. This is how Yoko intended this part of the exhibit; to show people what we lose when we use guns. It was beautifully done, and I really appreciated it.
Sunday was my homework day, if I remember correctly, as was Monday. Then, after work on Tuesday, I met up with my friend Arnell for dinner, which was absolutely wonderful. It was great to see him and catch up (he is also a student at UT, with just one year left, and he's interning at L'Oreal.) I'm hoping we get to go to some concerts together or something, because I definitely want to see him again! Wednesday was incredible. I met up with my Aunt Laura's friend, Bill Van Parys, who used to write for Rolling Stone. When I got to his posh building in Chelsea, I had to wait a few minutes for him to arrive, so I got to know the doormen. They were very friendly and funny, and it was so comforting to see how all of the neighbors knew them and each other. It felt nice. Then Bill came, and we headed up to his giant room (two rooms he renovated into one.) His place is great, and when we went over to his building's rooftop terrace, it was just unreal. I wish I had taken my camera with me, because the view of the city by the waterfront was just unreal. We chatted about his book that's in the works, about his time in Germany, his time at the magazine, and he asked me about how I was enjoying it and what I was doing there. I hope to keep in touch with him, because he was super nice and funny and interesting, and there's still so much I want to know!
Thursday was my flagship day, without question. I had e-mailed my boss on Wednesday to let her know about a surprise free show the Dead Weather (Jack White's new band with Alison Mosshart from the Kills) was putting on in their makeshift two-day label store in lower Manhattan. Erica ran by my desk at noon on Thursday to release me to go check it out. The only problem was, the show STARTED at noon, so the other interns and I knew it was a long shot. Sure enough, by the time we got there (half past noon or later, if I remember correctly) the show had started and there was no way in HELL we were getting in. We went into the store to see what we could see/hear what we could hear ('cause the band actually played in the basement below the store), and we could hear them pounding away under our feet. I decided I wanted to buy a copy of the record, so we went in search of an ATM. Walked around the block, got my money, checked out the listing at the Bowery, and then headed back to the store. People in hipsterish attire were flooding the streets, so it seemed we had gotten back right as everyone was being released 'cause it was over. I interviewed a group of fans to see if there was anything at all we could use, and then headed into the store to buy a CD, and in hopes that the band would make an appearance. They didn't (I found out later they were whisked into a car to get outta there, although our fantastic intern Jonathan, who actually got into the show, managed to get a quote from Alison) BUT. Matt Pinfield, ex-MTV veejay who was interviewed an insane amount (and caliber) of musicians in his life, showed up to help sell some CDs, and I rushed forward to ask him how he liked the show. I introduced myself, said I was an intern at Rolling Stone, and could I ask him how he liked the show? He gave me great quotes, and I strolled out, incredibly happy and hopeful. We met up with Jonathan, and all four of us headed back to RS headquarters. I typed up my quotes and e-mailed them to one of my bosses, and then kept working. After work, Chris, Caroline and I got pizza for dinner, and chatted about ridiculous things. Chris headed out, but Caroline hung out with me as I wandered to the right subway to head straight to the Stellastarr* concert I've been anticipating literally since the first week I was here. I got to the Highline Ballroom just after the openers had begun, and they were meh. The second openers were a little better than meh, but the best were Stellastarr*. They played songs off of all three albums (mostly new and off of the oldest one, only two from the middle CD). They looked happy and healthy and played tightly, and I just wish I could somehow see them again soon. Hopefully they'll hit up Austin sometime in the fall (they're playing there July 27th, but the last time they played Austin in 2005, they played two times within a few months, so it could happen!!) Then, after the show ended and I was super sweaty from all of my dancing, I checked my phone to see Caroline had texted me. She told me that I had been credited on RollingStone.com for "additional reporting" in the story that Jonathan ended up writing on the Dead Weather. I literally screamed down the street about it to anyone I could get a hold of. SO happy!!!!!!!!!!!! My name is now officially associated with Rolling Stone. I really couldn't be more ecstatic about that.
Friday, I slept in (sort of) and got a LOT of homework done. Then Caroline and I met up for a late night showing of the new Harry Potter film, which was awesome. Today, I hit up the Siren Fest at Coney Island (which is a three hour round-trip from where I live, because it's on the tip of Brooklyn. Phew.) I saw the band I really wanted to see, plus a bonus band, and took a picture or two of the beach there. If I ever have the energy, I'll try to go back and hang out on the beach. It's beautiful! (Albeit a little crowded.) I feel bad that I didn't stay at the fest for very long, because Raquel is leaving in 12 days and I want to spend as much time with her as possible. But I was exhausted and grumpy, so I decided it was best for me to get home. Now I'm trying to relax. I only have ONE assignment left and then I'll be done with summer school!!!!!!!!! I was going to jump on it tonight, but it's time for sleep. Hopefully, after I finish this damn summer school, I'll have more time to go into greater detail about my summer, and more often, on here. On the other hand, I refuse to give myself things I "HAVE" to do after I finish school (apart from the internship) because I want summer to just happen:) I'm gonna see (500) Days of Summer tomorrow, and Trip is coming for a week starting Monday!!! This is going to be a good, good week. Love to all, and I'll be back soon!!!
Last Friday, I went to another River 2 River Festival free concert at the South Seaport. Let me backtrack a little. Before that, Caroline and I actually went into work with the other 3 interns even though it was our day off because Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy for the not-quite-superfans) was in for an interview with Peter Travers, our film critic. The interns and our bosses stood around Travers' office, where the interview was held, and took places dressing in wizard garb and quietly/nonchalantly walking around in the background. It was hilarious and brought us all together as a family, I think. When Eric, our film guy, asked Caroline (who used to intern with him) where our own costumes were, I jumped into action and made paper wizard hats out of the covers of magazines sitting around. They were a hit! We gifted one to our exec editor, and he was tickled by the gesture, I think. Then Caroline and I were off to do some vintage shopping, which was fun but unfruitful, and then we grabbed DELICIOUS pizza (the best I've had in the city so far) nearby in the area of Brooklyn we were inhabiting, and then we headed to the South Seaport for the free concert. The setting was beautiful, and although the bands were VERY disappointing (so it goes, sometimes) it was such a gorgeous night that it didn't even matter. It was warm with just the right amount of breeze, and the ships that were the background of our show were too picturesque to be true. A great day, all in all!
Saturday, I met up with Raquel for brunch in Greenwich, and it was delish and so, so much fun. Angelica joined us part way through, and then we headed off to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Annex in New York. We walked there, which allowed for some nice neighborhood examining. The hall itself was absolutely perfect; I don't think they could have done anything differently. The first room you go into is this kind of holding space you wait in until they are ready for you in the screening room. It has all of the autographs, cast in silver, on the walls, and when certain bands or artists are lit up, their song comes on the overhead. As it gets closer and closer to moving on, the music speeds up and the clips of each song get shorter until they explode into the final chords of "A Day In The Life," my favorite Beatles' song. Brilliant. Then you go into this room that has sort of semi-theater-arena seating, and classic clips from concerts of the legends (Elvis, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, etc.) are screened in front and around you so you feel like you're there. Then you go to the museum, and they give you this headset with a chip inside so that it can sense what part of the exhibit you're in and play music and sound clips accordingly - you don't have to press a thing!! The rock memorobilia they had is too overwhelming to name really, but it includes things like the awning of CBGB's, Bruce Springsteen's first car (!!), letters between Art Garfunkel and Paul Simon, Madonna's cone bra outfit, and SO, so much more. The final room is the special exhibit, which for now is a John Lennon exhibit. It was stupendous. There was old footage of his art films with Yoko Ono, their family films with him and Sean, handwritten lyrics, artwork by Lennon, just amazing artifacts that bring you closer and closer to the artist. Then, finally, on the last wall, there is an "art project" by Yoko that is called "Smile in a Box" that is a mirror inside what amounts to a jewelry box, and a phone that says, "Call for Peace - if it rings, pick it up!" On rare occasions, Yoko herself will call the telephone and wish the receiver peace. I wasn't one of the lucky ones, but it's just such a cool idea. Then, as "Imagine" is playing in your headphones, you get to a canvas where you can sign your name to ask Obama to put more restrictions on weapons to end gun violence. Then you come to a paper sack encased in a plastic bag. Within, John Lennon's bloody clothes that the police gave to Yoko after they finished with them sit. Though you can't see the clothes, you see the blood stains on the tape on the bag. At this point, I started to weep. Then, when I moved to my left, there was a picture Yoko took of John's bloody glasses in the window of their apartment. I sobbed openly. It was just so overwhelming, to think that such a creative soul was lost to such bloody violence. This is how Yoko intended this part of the exhibit; to show people what we lose when we use guns. It was beautifully done, and I really appreciated it.
Sunday was my homework day, if I remember correctly, as was Monday. Then, after work on Tuesday, I met up with my friend Arnell for dinner, which was absolutely wonderful. It was great to see him and catch up (he is also a student at UT, with just one year left, and he's interning at L'Oreal.) I'm hoping we get to go to some concerts together or something, because I definitely want to see him again! Wednesday was incredible. I met up with my Aunt Laura's friend, Bill Van Parys, who used to write for Rolling Stone. When I got to his posh building in Chelsea, I had to wait a few minutes for him to arrive, so I got to know the doormen. They were very friendly and funny, and it was so comforting to see how all of the neighbors knew them and each other. It felt nice. Then Bill came, and we headed up to his giant room (two rooms he renovated into one.) His place is great, and when we went over to his building's rooftop terrace, it was just unreal. I wish I had taken my camera with me, because the view of the city by the waterfront was just unreal. We chatted about his book that's in the works, about his time in Germany, his time at the magazine, and he asked me about how I was enjoying it and what I was doing there. I hope to keep in touch with him, because he was super nice and funny and interesting, and there's still so much I want to know!
Thursday was my flagship day, without question. I had e-mailed my boss on Wednesday to let her know about a surprise free show the Dead Weather (Jack White's new band with Alison Mosshart from the Kills) was putting on in their makeshift two-day label store in lower Manhattan. Erica ran by my desk at noon on Thursday to release me to go check it out. The only problem was, the show STARTED at noon, so the other interns and I knew it was a long shot. Sure enough, by the time we got there (half past noon or later, if I remember correctly) the show had started and there was no way in HELL we were getting in. We went into the store to see what we could see/hear what we could hear ('cause the band actually played in the basement below the store), and we could hear them pounding away under our feet. I decided I wanted to buy a copy of the record, so we went in search of an ATM. Walked around the block, got my money, checked out the listing at the Bowery, and then headed back to the store. People in hipsterish attire were flooding the streets, so it seemed we had gotten back right as everyone was being released 'cause it was over. I interviewed a group of fans to see if there was anything at all we could use, and then headed into the store to buy a CD, and in hopes that the band would make an appearance. They didn't (I found out later they were whisked into a car to get outta there, although our fantastic intern Jonathan, who actually got into the show, managed to get a quote from Alison) BUT. Matt Pinfield, ex-MTV veejay who was interviewed an insane amount (and caliber) of musicians in his life, showed up to help sell some CDs, and I rushed forward to ask him how he liked the show. I introduced myself, said I was an intern at Rolling Stone, and could I ask him how he liked the show? He gave me great quotes, and I strolled out, incredibly happy and hopeful. We met up with Jonathan, and all four of us headed back to RS headquarters. I typed up my quotes and e-mailed them to one of my bosses, and then kept working. After work, Chris, Caroline and I got pizza for dinner, and chatted about ridiculous things. Chris headed out, but Caroline hung out with me as I wandered to the right subway to head straight to the Stellastarr* concert I've been anticipating literally since the first week I was here. I got to the Highline Ballroom just after the openers had begun, and they were meh. The second openers were a little better than meh, but the best were Stellastarr*. They played songs off of all three albums (mostly new and off of the oldest one, only two from the middle CD). They looked happy and healthy and played tightly, and I just wish I could somehow see them again soon. Hopefully they'll hit up Austin sometime in the fall (they're playing there July 27th, but the last time they played Austin in 2005, they played two times within a few months, so it could happen!!) Then, after the show ended and I was super sweaty from all of my dancing, I checked my phone to see Caroline had texted me. She told me that I had been credited on RollingStone.com for "additional reporting" in the story that Jonathan ended up writing on the Dead Weather. I literally screamed down the street about it to anyone I could get a hold of. SO happy!!!!!!!!!!!! My name is now officially associated with Rolling Stone. I really couldn't be more ecstatic about that.
Friday, I slept in (sort of) and got a LOT of homework done. Then Caroline and I met up for a late night showing of the new Harry Potter film, which was awesome. Today, I hit up the Siren Fest at Coney Island (which is a three hour round-trip from where I live, because it's on the tip of Brooklyn. Phew.) I saw the band I really wanted to see, plus a bonus band, and took a picture or two of the beach there. If I ever have the energy, I'll try to go back and hang out on the beach. It's beautiful! (Albeit a little crowded.) I feel bad that I didn't stay at the fest for very long, because Raquel is leaving in 12 days and I want to spend as much time with her as possible. But I was exhausted and grumpy, so I decided it was best for me to get home. Now I'm trying to relax. I only have ONE assignment left and then I'll be done with summer school!!!!!!!!! I was going to jump on it tonight, but it's time for sleep. Hopefully, after I finish this damn summer school, I'll have more time to go into greater detail about my summer, and more often, on here. On the other hand, I refuse to give myself things I "HAVE" to do after I finish school (apart from the internship) because I want summer to just happen:) I'm gonna see (500) Days of Summer tomorrow, and Trip is coming for a week starting Monday!!! This is going to be a good, good week. Love to all, and I'll be back soon!!!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
I found myself a sweetheart with the softest of hands/We were unlucky in love, but I'd do it all again.
It's been an exhausting week and a half or so now, mentally and physically. There's much to update, but I think I'll just focus on a few things here and there, because that's what I'm feelin'.
Last Sunday (as in, a week ago from two days ago) I met up with a friend from UT named Raquel. We bought ice cream cones and wandered off into Central Park, chatting about our big plans for our futures and what we wanted to get out of New York. Raquel had only been in New York for a week, so she was still deciding how she felt about the city. I was in total New York-lovefest mode, so I chatted her up about that. We found a place to sit in the park, and it smelled vividly of my Grandma's lavender soap or perfume that she would use at her and my Grandpa's farm in Kansas. It was a comforting, new summer smell, and matched the magic of the lightning bugs scattered around in front of us. I had forgotten lightning bugs. . .anyway, it was incredibly pleasant and we promised to meet up again for free concerts. Tuesday I headed to work, and last work week was rough, because I felt a cold coming on as early as Tuesday that progressed into full-out sick mode by Thursday. Luckily (I guess?) I needed to do some homework, so I used Thursday evening and Friday to be productive. Still, I was very, very worried that I wouldn't be feeling very good for the 4th of July celebration I had planned since the second I knew I'd be in NYC this summer - the River to River festival was hosting a free concert by Jenny Lewis and Conor Oberst - as in, love-of-my-life Conor Oberst. Happily, though I still felt weak when I woke up Saturday morning, I knew I could soldier it out. I took the morning very slowly; I had a delicious breakfast of a bagel and yogurt, and then threw sunscreen in my purse and headed out into the world. I hit up CVS on my way to the show and bought a deck of playing cards plus three bottles of water. I was in line at Battery Park on the very edge of Manhattan by 11:30AM - the show started at 3:30PM, but I was absolutely convinced that I MUST be there early to be close. It was true, and we did end up with great spots, dead center and only about 15 or fewer feet from the stage. My work pal Caroline joined me at about 11:45, and we played a game of war (she kicked my butt) and chatted about work and folks. The line started to move at around 1:00PM, and I was worried because I was still expecting two friends to show up. Luckily, Raquel showed up right around 1, and managed to get to us in line. Apparently some of the other folks in line were grouchy, but she was our savior because she brought us peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, without which we probably would have starved. Jessica from Connecticut still wasn't there, and I was very concerned she would have to watch the show from far away, but happily we were able to secure her a spot in the grass up close with us by stretching out a little bit wider than was completely necessary. She joined us as we finished up our first game of "Go Fish!" and we included her in the second round. A small group in front of us broke out some bubbles, and there was just a general feeling of summertime sitting in the grass on blankets and towels and (in our case) jackets and plastic bags. At 3:30, a blonde woman goofily introduced Jenny Lewis, and the band popped onstage to start the opening drumbeat of "See Fernando." The blonde guitarist dude in her band said, "And now, ladies and gentlemen, presenting the daughter of the revolution, Ms. Jenny Lewis!!" and out ran Jenny, vintage American flag flapping at her back (she wore it as a cape.) Her set was fantastic; she was impressive and completely sure of herself, which completely attracted me to her (she was everything I wanted to be). She played a few songs that really tugged at my heartstrings, but in particular, "Acid Tongue" and "Silver Lining" really got to me. It made me want to grab my guitar and start writing again, so hopefully that vibe will still exist when I get back home in August to my beautiful acoustic. Also, I loved when she invited out Oberst and Nik Freitas from the Mystic Valley Band to sing "Handle Me With Care." I am currently discovering that in the recording, she has Ben Gibbard and M. Ward sing with her (as well as Conor). Nice one, Jenny!
After Lewis left the stage, there was about a half hour wait (which I totally called), during which we chatted about various things we saw in the crowd, like a random Longhorns cap and other silliness. At 5 after 5, out marched the boys of the Mystic Valley Band. They all looked adorable - Macy Taylor has FINALLY cut that shnasty hair, so he looked downright good (he was Caroline's favorite; she's always going for the underdogs, haha!) and Taylor Hollingsworth is just always gorgeous. In fact, Conor joked near the very end of their set (when he was doing band introductions, as he always does) that he told Hollingsworth he had to scar his face if he was going to join the band. "He didn't listen to me - so I guess I'm out of luck," Oberst said. Hilarious. Anyway, they opened with the oh-so-appropriate "NYC - Gone, Gone," and I jumped around and pumped my fist and generally forgot that I had been sick the five days before. They broke out "Souled Out!!!" after that, which was great because Conor got to break out his growly-voice pretty much straight away. Oh, how I LOVE that growly-voice. Then it was on to "Sausalito," and then "Nikorette" - kind of a "hits" list from the solo albums, and I certainly wasn't going to complain. Hollingsworth got to stretch his vocal chords after that on the incredibly nasally but also incredibly catchy "Air Mattress." Conor's version of "Eagle on a Pole" was completely entrancing; his voice echoed around the park, all chill-giving and haunting and whatnot. Just beautiful. The next one is this one that reminds me of Paul Simon every time, called "Spoiled" which Conor said was "about being a spoiled brat." There's a verse in there that gets me every time; you'll have to ask me about it if you want to know:) Then was "Ten Woman," which is apparently about "overcompensating, because you have no self-confidence." I feel like every time I see Oberst perform, he lets the audience a little bit closer to him all of the time. I like that. He picked up the pace again after that with "Slowly (Oh So Slowly)" which I felt like had a significant amount of people singing along. Then was poor Macy's track, "Worldwide." The man's voice is just too damn icky, I'm sorry. He sounds so timid!!! It's like, if you have a weird voice (a la Hollingsworth), you have to OWN it (a la Hollingsworth). If you sing all apologetically, you're gonna make folks uncomfortable. Ah, well. Then Oberst dedicated "Moab" to Jenny, which solidified the notion in my heart that she's been going through hard times recently (she said something before "Silver Lining" about have a "crazy couple of years.") I though. . .why can't Conor be MY friend and dedicate songs about the healing power of the road to ME?! Anyway. Then "Cape Canaveral" went over much like "Eagle..." and I called Edward for it because I remembered he loved the line, "I watch your face age backwards, changing shape in my memory." Again, it was just beautiful. My favorite line: "And you don't judge me/That's not your style." The twangy "Get-Well-Cards" was next, but only after some digression about the day. "Do y'all have some sparklers or something?" Oberst asked. "Let's get festive, for fuck's sake!" LOVED it. Then, after Freitas' Mystic Valley Band best-of chanting tune "Big Black Nothing," Oberst had to tune his guitar.
"I don't know if you know this," Oberst said, "but it's really, really hard to tune your gutiar in the sun. Hollingsworth. . .say something to the people."
"[pause]
It's really hard. You get the sun in your eyes, and you can't see, and it's hot. . .
[pause]
What statue is that, it's huge! [referring to the Statue of Liberty]
[audience laughter]
This city is so big. I'm from Alabama, I'm just - it's so big here!"
ADORABLE. Love, love, love these guys. Then they played the one song I don't have in my iPod, "One of My Kind" (the title was used for the documentary about them). Fantastic, I can't wait until they release it!! Then I heard the tinkling guitar sounds that suggested they were about to play my current favorite, and my heart skipped a beat - when Oberst said, "This is about having a reason to get out of bed every morning," I squealed audibly (people who have been to a concert with me, you know what I do) and they broke into "I Got the Reason #2." I mouthed along hard to this one, pumped my fist at all the right places, and was utterly thrilled to get this one. For "In the glass houses, in the pages of the Rolling Stone..." I sang the lines to Caroline, and she smiled really big and laughed. It was just wonderful, basically. The band left the stage after that one, but Oberst and keyboardist Nathanial Walcott returned pretty promptly to do an acoustic, heart-enveloping version of "Lenders In The Temple." The line in this one that gets me every time is, "That circus tiger's gonna break your heart/Something so wild turned into paper/If I loved you, well that's my fault." Every time. Conor announced they would do a couple slow ones, and then pick it back up at the end, so they followed that up with the snoozer "Difference is Time" by drummer Jason Boesel (who, incidentally, plays the drums in Rilo Kiley with Jenny Lewis, too). I feel bad, but Boesel's voice just doesn't do it for me. It's too blah. Still, maybe this song will grow on me with time. I still sing along to the chorus, because it's super catchy. Then they broke into "Danny Callahan," which seemed to be a crowd pleaser to a big, big extent, which surprised me for some reason. It's a great song, but I didn't expect everyone to sing along to the extent that they did. Then came the band introductions, so I knew the end was nigh, but right at this moment Caroline looked at me like she was going to hurl, and so she had to sit down on the ground and try to pull it together. Poor lady; I wasn't sure what she needed from me, but I was prepared to do it, whatever it might be. Luckily, she felt tons better after sitting, so that was good. Then the band broke into the raucous, romping country swing tune, "I Don't Wanna Die (In a Hospital)," a modern look at mortality. Love that one. Then, my heart got to swell one last time for the last song - I knew what it was the second Conor introduced it. He said, "This is the most patriotic song we have, so we saved it for last," and I automatically knew it was "Roosevelt Room." He ripped into the opening guitar riff seconds later, and my head did not stop banging until the very last notes were played. He really growled out the lines with passion and meaning and it was just perfect. It was exactly how I imagined it would go down (minus the fact that I was never asked up onstage to guest with the band - ahem:P)
Raquel, her friend Angelique, Jessica, Caroline and I wandered off to find food (and bathrooms!!) afterward, and then we (minus Jessica, who had to get home) headed to a spot near the Hudson so we could watch the fireworks go off. We could just see the highest ones over the top of a building in the spot we chose, but it was beautiful and fun nonetheless. The rest of the weekend was spent working on homework and resting more (still a little sick, even now) which was good, but also has made me incredibly restless, and very body-conscious and other things. I've been incredibly stressed and grumpy these past few days, and the condition doesn't seem to be improving, which just makes it worse. I did force myself out of the house yesterday to travel to the NYU area of New York. I checked out a famous indie music store there, Other Music, which was cool, but honestly - Waterloo kicks its ass in terms of selection. Still, it was fun, and there were also quite a few vintage clothes shops in the area that I might have to check out again in the future, who knows.
I think that's a good enough update for now. This week, I'm trying to get as much homework done as I possibly can so I can finish up these history courses by the end of the week, if at all possible. I also have plans to try to see Shakespeare in the Park (Anne Hatthaway is one of the stars in their production right now), as well as possible free concerts on Friday and Sunday. I want to get a little more homework, so I'll end this here and try to check back again soon!
Last Sunday (as in, a week ago from two days ago) I met up with a friend from UT named Raquel. We bought ice cream cones and wandered off into Central Park, chatting about our big plans for our futures and what we wanted to get out of New York. Raquel had only been in New York for a week, so she was still deciding how she felt about the city. I was in total New York-lovefest mode, so I chatted her up about that. We found a place to sit in the park, and it smelled vividly of my Grandma's lavender soap or perfume that she would use at her and my Grandpa's farm in Kansas. It was a comforting, new summer smell, and matched the magic of the lightning bugs scattered around in front of us. I had forgotten lightning bugs. . .anyway, it was incredibly pleasant and we promised to meet up again for free concerts. Tuesday I headed to work, and last work week was rough, because I felt a cold coming on as early as Tuesday that progressed into full-out sick mode by Thursday. Luckily (I guess?) I needed to do some homework, so I used Thursday evening and Friday to be productive. Still, I was very, very worried that I wouldn't be feeling very good for the 4th of July celebration I had planned since the second I knew I'd be in NYC this summer - the River to River festival was hosting a free concert by Jenny Lewis and Conor Oberst - as in, love-of-my-life Conor Oberst. Happily, though I still felt weak when I woke up Saturday morning, I knew I could soldier it out. I took the morning very slowly; I had a delicious breakfast of a bagel and yogurt, and then threw sunscreen in my purse and headed out into the world. I hit up CVS on my way to the show and bought a deck of playing cards plus three bottles of water. I was in line at Battery Park on the very edge of Manhattan by 11:30AM - the show started at 3:30PM, but I was absolutely convinced that I MUST be there early to be close. It was true, and we did end up with great spots, dead center and only about 15 or fewer feet from the stage. My work pal Caroline joined me at about 11:45, and we played a game of war (she kicked my butt) and chatted about work and folks. The line started to move at around 1:00PM, and I was worried because I was still expecting two friends to show up. Luckily, Raquel showed up right around 1, and managed to get to us in line. Apparently some of the other folks in line were grouchy, but she was our savior because she brought us peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, without which we probably would have starved. Jessica from Connecticut still wasn't there, and I was very concerned she would have to watch the show from far away, but happily we were able to secure her a spot in the grass up close with us by stretching out a little bit wider than was completely necessary. She joined us as we finished up our first game of "Go Fish!" and we included her in the second round. A small group in front of us broke out some bubbles, and there was just a general feeling of summertime sitting in the grass on blankets and towels and (in our case) jackets and plastic bags. At 3:30, a blonde woman goofily introduced Jenny Lewis, and the band popped onstage to start the opening drumbeat of "See Fernando." The blonde guitarist dude in her band said, "And now, ladies and gentlemen, presenting the daughter of the revolution, Ms. Jenny Lewis!!" and out ran Jenny, vintage American flag flapping at her back (she wore it as a cape.) Her set was fantastic; she was impressive and completely sure of herself, which completely attracted me to her (she was everything I wanted to be). She played a few songs that really tugged at my heartstrings, but in particular, "Acid Tongue" and "Silver Lining" really got to me. It made me want to grab my guitar and start writing again, so hopefully that vibe will still exist when I get back home in August to my beautiful acoustic. Also, I loved when she invited out Oberst and Nik Freitas from the Mystic Valley Band to sing "Handle Me With Care." I am currently discovering that in the recording, she has Ben Gibbard and M. Ward sing with her (as well as Conor). Nice one, Jenny!
After Lewis left the stage, there was about a half hour wait (which I totally called), during which we chatted about various things we saw in the crowd, like a random Longhorns cap and other silliness. At 5 after 5, out marched the boys of the Mystic Valley Band. They all looked adorable - Macy Taylor has FINALLY cut that shnasty hair, so he looked downright good (he was Caroline's favorite; she's always going for the underdogs, haha!) and Taylor Hollingsworth is just always gorgeous. In fact, Conor joked near the very end of their set (when he was doing band introductions, as he always does) that he told Hollingsworth he had to scar his face if he was going to join the band. "He didn't listen to me - so I guess I'm out of luck," Oberst said. Hilarious. Anyway, they opened with the oh-so-appropriate "NYC - Gone, Gone," and I jumped around and pumped my fist and generally forgot that I had been sick the five days before. They broke out "Souled Out!!!" after that, which was great because Conor got to break out his growly-voice pretty much straight away. Oh, how I LOVE that growly-voice. Then it was on to "Sausalito," and then "Nikorette" - kind of a "hits" list from the solo albums, and I certainly wasn't going to complain. Hollingsworth got to stretch his vocal chords after that on the incredibly nasally but also incredibly catchy "Air Mattress." Conor's version of "Eagle on a Pole" was completely entrancing; his voice echoed around the park, all chill-giving and haunting and whatnot. Just beautiful. The next one is this one that reminds me of Paul Simon every time, called "Spoiled" which Conor said was "about being a spoiled brat." There's a verse in there that gets me every time; you'll have to ask me about it if you want to know:) Then was "Ten Woman," which is apparently about "overcompensating, because you have no self-confidence." I feel like every time I see Oberst perform, he lets the audience a little bit closer to him all of the time. I like that. He picked up the pace again after that with "Slowly (Oh So Slowly)" which I felt like had a significant amount of people singing along. Then was poor Macy's track, "Worldwide." The man's voice is just too damn icky, I'm sorry. He sounds so timid!!! It's like, if you have a weird voice (a la Hollingsworth), you have to OWN it (a la Hollingsworth). If you sing all apologetically, you're gonna make folks uncomfortable. Ah, well. Then Oberst dedicated "Moab" to Jenny, which solidified the notion in my heart that she's been going through hard times recently (she said something before "Silver Lining" about have a "crazy couple of years.") I though. . .why can't Conor be MY friend and dedicate songs about the healing power of the road to ME?! Anyway. Then "Cape Canaveral" went over much like "Eagle..." and I called Edward for it because I remembered he loved the line, "I watch your face age backwards, changing shape in my memory." Again, it was just beautiful. My favorite line: "And you don't judge me/That's not your style." The twangy "Get-Well-Cards" was next, but only after some digression about the day. "Do y'all have some sparklers or something?" Oberst asked. "Let's get festive, for fuck's sake!" LOVED it. Then, after Freitas' Mystic Valley Band best-of chanting tune "Big Black Nothing," Oberst had to tune his guitar.
"I don't know if you know this," Oberst said, "but it's really, really hard to tune your gutiar in the sun. Hollingsworth. . .say something to the people."
"[pause]
It's really hard. You get the sun in your eyes, and you can't see, and it's hot. . .
[pause]
What statue is that, it's huge! [referring to the Statue of Liberty]
[audience laughter]
This city is so big. I'm from Alabama, I'm just - it's so big here!"
ADORABLE. Love, love, love these guys. Then they played the one song I don't have in my iPod, "One of My Kind" (the title was used for the documentary about them). Fantastic, I can't wait until they release it!! Then I heard the tinkling guitar sounds that suggested they were about to play my current favorite, and my heart skipped a beat - when Oberst said, "This is about having a reason to get out of bed every morning," I squealed audibly (people who have been to a concert with me, you know what I do) and they broke into "I Got the Reason #2." I mouthed along hard to this one, pumped my fist at all the right places, and was utterly thrilled to get this one. For "In the glass houses, in the pages of the Rolling Stone..." I sang the lines to Caroline, and she smiled really big and laughed. It was just wonderful, basically. The band left the stage after that one, but Oberst and keyboardist Nathanial Walcott returned pretty promptly to do an acoustic, heart-enveloping version of "Lenders In The Temple." The line in this one that gets me every time is, "That circus tiger's gonna break your heart/Something so wild turned into paper/If I loved you, well that's my fault." Every time. Conor announced they would do a couple slow ones, and then pick it back up at the end, so they followed that up with the snoozer "Difference is Time" by drummer Jason Boesel (who, incidentally, plays the drums in Rilo Kiley with Jenny Lewis, too). I feel bad, but Boesel's voice just doesn't do it for me. It's too blah. Still, maybe this song will grow on me with time. I still sing along to the chorus, because it's super catchy. Then they broke into "Danny Callahan," which seemed to be a crowd pleaser to a big, big extent, which surprised me for some reason. It's a great song, but I didn't expect everyone to sing along to the extent that they did. Then came the band introductions, so I knew the end was nigh, but right at this moment Caroline looked at me like she was going to hurl, and so she had to sit down on the ground and try to pull it together. Poor lady; I wasn't sure what she needed from me, but I was prepared to do it, whatever it might be. Luckily, she felt tons better after sitting, so that was good. Then the band broke into the raucous, romping country swing tune, "I Don't Wanna Die (In a Hospital)," a modern look at mortality. Love that one. Then, my heart got to swell one last time for the last song - I knew what it was the second Conor introduced it. He said, "This is the most patriotic song we have, so we saved it for last," and I automatically knew it was "Roosevelt Room." He ripped into the opening guitar riff seconds later, and my head did not stop banging until the very last notes were played. He really growled out the lines with passion and meaning and it was just perfect. It was exactly how I imagined it would go down (minus the fact that I was never asked up onstage to guest with the band - ahem:P)
Raquel, her friend Angelique, Jessica, Caroline and I wandered off to find food (and bathrooms!!) afterward, and then we (minus Jessica, who had to get home) headed to a spot near the Hudson so we could watch the fireworks go off. We could just see the highest ones over the top of a building in the spot we chose, but it was beautiful and fun nonetheless. The rest of the weekend was spent working on homework and resting more (still a little sick, even now) which was good, but also has made me incredibly restless, and very body-conscious and other things. I've been incredibly stressed and grumpy these past few days, and the condition doesn't seem to be improving, which just makes it worse. I did force myself out of the house yesterday to travel to the NYU area of New York. I checked out a famous indie music store there, Other Music, which was cool, but honestly - Waterloo kicks its ass in terms of selection. Still, it was fun, and there were also quite a few vintage clothes shops in the area that I might have to check out again in the future, who knows.
I think that's a good enough update for now. This week, I'm trying to get as much homework done as I possibly can so I can finish up these history courses by the end of the week, if at all possible. I also have plans to try to see Shakespeare in the Park (Anne Hatthaway is one of the stars in their production right now), as well as possible free concerts on Friday and Sunday. I want to get a little more homework, so I'll end this here and try to check back again soon!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
You wanna be startin' something? You've got to be startin' something.
I'm so busy here, all of the time. It's worrisome, because I don't want to be this way for the rest of my life. But when I stop to think about it, I have nothing to worry about - I'll graduate from school soon, and then not have classes to worry about until I go to grad school in the far distant future. My online history classes hang over my head constantly, with this sense of - should be doing, should be doing, should be doing. I'm trying to come at it instead from a *could* be doing perspective so that I'm not constantly berating myself. Besides, I'm making all A's thus far in each class, and I'm on top of it. But I've also got my internship "class" (aka writeups of my weeks) to take care of, as well as a midterm assessment for the Wofford Denius Music Industry Scholarship portion of all of this. Phew. Happily, I have been pretty productive today, and it's only 8pm, meaning I've got the rest of the evening to do a little history homework, catch up on my writeups for the internship class, and maybe even have time to watch a movie or read or something. Finding "me" time with two other people living in my room is difficult, and I think I feel so relieved when it happens that I tend to just sit and eat and do not much else, because I am just so overwhelmed with a sense of, "aaaaah-lone." And it's nice.
My thoughts are all kinds of muddled today; it's been a rough one. The subway was CRAMMED with people, and I got pushed all around holding my giant bag from Bed, Bath & Beyond with an egg crate in there so that I might actually get a decent night's sleep this last month and a half I have in New York. My good friend (and possible future roommate!) Kristin is leaving tomorrow, and seeing in here eyes all the different, overwhelming feelings she's feeling is just my first taste of what I'll feel come August 15th. I'm hoping to see her this evening, but I haven't heard from her yet, so we'll see. I know she has a LOT of people she will want to see, and I got her for 7 hours yesterday, so I will definitely NOT be offended if we can't see each other one more time. We went apartment hunting together yesterday to find a place we'd want to move into, and after getting lost in an extremely Orthodox Jewish part of Williamsburgh, we finally wandered into the slightly more hipsterish and comfortable area. I'm afraid about prices, because the part we liked was pretty close(ish) to the waterfront, which I'm guessing makes it more expensive. But the neighborhood was great, and we had dinner at a Mexican restaurant, which made me feel even more at home. Then, we went to Union Square because we heard there was a Michael Jackson dance party happening, but alas, it had broken up by the time we got there (there was no trace of it at all - in fact, I keep trying to find the MJ dance parties that I know have been happening around the city, and so far haven't found one. It's a conspiracy!!!) We then decided it was movie time. Unfortunately, we wasted $12 and close to 2 hours on "Year One." Don't bother, people. Seriously. It's terrible. "The Hangover" was better, and I didn't even like THAT one that much. "Away We Go" is the best film I've seen in a long time. Actually, I'm currently listening to the soundtrack - particularly, the George Harrison song they included in it (I rest my case.) Anyway, it was still fun to hang with Kristin, and then I came back and CRASHED. Today, I worked out, ran a bunch of errands, and am now doing laundry. Wheee.
Thursday was the craziest day of work I've had yet. Multiple celebs walked by my desk (you'll have to ask me for specifics, I'm not going to post because I don't want to give out that kinda info on the interwebs, just in case!) and I got to transcribe my first interview, which was intense, but fun. We were let go early, at around 5:40pm or something, and Caroline and I were waiting for another co-intern, Sara, to get out of her other job and join us for dinner and drinks. We went to the H&M nearby, looked around, and then headed back towards our work building, where we were supposed to meet her. As we walked out of the store, I heard a man say, "He's left his 3 kids...breaking, Michael Jackson is dead," into his cell phone. When we left the office, we'd heard he had been rushed to the hospital, having suffered cardiac arrest or something like that. I flipped my head towards the man, my mouth agape and eyes wide. He looked at me, smiled faintly, and kind of shrugged, as if to say - "What can you do?" I flipped back to Caroline and told her what I'd heard, and we rushed back to the office to jump on the computers and see if it was true. TMZ was reporting he was dead, and I didn't even know what to do. It didn't seem official enough, or something. It was just too sudden. I suggested that we run over to see if our boss, Erica, was still there, and it was a really good thing we did, because she was and needed our help badly. I worked that day until a little after 11pm, taking a break for our collective free pizza dinner. It was unreal, it was crazy, I'm still coping. It's making me face my past in some ways, because Jackson's music is so evocative of my very young childhood. I remember dancing around to "Thriller" with my brother. I remember inviting MJ to my 3rd birthday party, and his "people" sending me a cassette tape with "Black or White" and "Remember the Time" on it. That was when we were living in Austin, after Edward had just been born, really. Anyway, of all the places I could have been, I'm so glad I was in the offices of Rolling Stone. The only better place would have been with my brother and mom, and we could have played his vinyls and danced around like we did when I was a toddler.
The city has been beautiful; it's been sunny sometimes, rainy sometimes, but always beautiful. Taking the brown line to Williamsburgh was my first New York experience on a subway train that goes above ground, and it reminded me vividly of my London adventure, and of Berlin. It was beautiful, and felt so much like a place I could call home for a few years. I feel that there is so much more to report, like Will Dana's (managing editor of RS) luncheon with the interns and the incredible things he said, like the movie "Away We Go" itself, with its hopeful and adventurous messages imbedded within, like somedays feeling completely fabulous and confident and other days feeling like I want to disappear. Finding myself is all a part of the game right now, just as it has been for the past four years. Rocks are overturned all of the time, and other times it is just hit home to me how much I am a thing I knew I was all along.
Sorry to be so sporadic and cryptic, loves. I have to go get my laundry.
My thoughts are all kinds of muddled today; it's been a rough one. The subway was CRAMMED with people, and I got pushed all around holding my giant bag from Bed, Bath & Beyond with an egg crate in there so that I might actually get a decent night's sleep this last month and a half I have in New York. My good friend (and possible future roommate!) Kristin is leaving tomorrow, and seeing in here eyes all the different, overwhelming feelings she's feeling is just my first taste of what I'll feel come August 15th. I'm hoping to see her this evening, but I haven't heard from her yet, so we'll see. I know she has a LOT of people she will want to see, and I got her for 7 hours yesterday, so I will definitely NOT be offended if we can't see each other one more time. We went apartment hunting together yesterday to find a place we'd want to move into, and after getting lost in an extremely Orthodox Jewish part of Williamsburgh, we finally wandered into the slightly more hipsterish and comfortable area. I'm afraid about prices, because the part we liked was pretty close(ish) to the waterfront, which I'm guessing makes it more expensive. But the neighborhood was great, and we had dinner at a Mexican restaurant, which made me feel even more at home. Then, we went to Union Square because we heard there was a Michael Jackson dance party happening, but alas, it had broken up by the time we got there (there was no trace of it at all - in fact, I keep trying to find the MJ dance parties that I know have been happening around the city, and so far haven't found one. It's a conspiracy!!!) We then decided it was movie time. Unfortunately, we wasted $12 and close to 2 hours on "Year One." Don't bother, people. Seriously. It's terrible. "The Hangover" was better, and I didn't even like THAT one that much. "Away We Go" is the best film I've seen in a long time. Actually, I'm currently listening to the soundtrack - particularly, the George Harrison song they included in it (I rest my case.) Anyway, it was still fun to hang with Kristin, and then I came back and CRASHED. Today, I worked out, ran a bunch of errands, and am now doing laundry. Wheee.
Thursday was the craziest day of work I've had yet. Multiple celebs walked by my desk (you'll have to ask me for specifics, I'm not going to post because I don't want to give out that kinda info on the interwebs, just in case!) and I got to transcribe my first interview, which was intense, but fun. We were let go early, at around 5:40pm or something, and Caroline and I were waiting for another co-intern, Sara, to get out of her other job and join us for dinner and drinks. We went to the H&M nearby, looked around, and then headed back towards our work building, where we were supposed to meet her. As we walked out of the store, I heard a man say, "He's left his 3 kids...breaking, Michael Jackson is dead," into his cell phone. When we left the office, we'd heard he had been rushed to the hospital, having suffered cardiac arrest or something like that. I flipped my head towards the man, my mouth agape and eyes wide. He looked at me, smiled faintly, and kind of shrugged, as if to say - "What can you do?" I flipped back to Caroline and told her what I'd heard, and we rushed back to the office to jump on the computers and see if it was true. TMZ was reporting he was dead, and I didn't even know what to do. It didn't seem official enough, or something. It was just too sudden. I suggested that we run over to see if our boss, Erica, was still there, and it was a really good thing we did, because she was and needed our help badly. I worked that day until a little after 11pm, taking a break for our collective free pizza dinner. It was unreal, it was crazy, I'm still coping. It's making me face my past in some ways, because Jackson's music is so evocative of my very young childhood. I remember dancing around to "Thriller" with my brother. I remember inviting MJ to my 3rd birthday party, and his "people" sending me a cassette tape with "Black or White" and "Remember the Time" on it. That was when we were living in Austin, after Edward had just been born, really. Anyway, of all the places I could have been, I'm so glad I was in the offices of Rolling Stone. The only better place would have been with my brother and mom, and we could have played his vinyls and danced around like we did when I was a toddler.
The city has been beautiful; it's been sunny sometimes, rainy sometimes, but always beautiful. Taking the brown line to Williamsburgh was my first New York experience on a subway train that goes above ground, and it reminded me vividly of my London adventure, and of Berlin. It was beautiful, and felt so much like a place I could call home for a few years. I feel that there is so much more to report, like Will Dana's (managing editor of RS) luncheon with the interns and the incredible things he said, like the movie "Away We Go" itself, with its hopeful and adventurous messages imbedded within, like somedays feeling completely fabulous and confident and other days feeling like I want to disappear. Finding myself is all a part of the game right now, just as it has been for the past four years. Rocks are overturned all of the time, and other times it is just hit home to me how much I am a thing I knew I was all along.
Sorry to be so sporadic and cryptic, loves. I have to go get my laundry.
Friday, June 19, 2009
New York City unknown...
Today was fantastic. Wednesday was fantastic. Life is freakin' good. I'll recap Wednesday a little, and then I'll do today, and then I'll probably finish eating this delicious Cadbury chocolate, and get to bed.
Wednesday, the interns (all 30 or 40 of us at Wenner Media, aka people in all different departments at all 3 magazines) had lunch with Jann Wenner, the founder of Rolling Stone. He was really cool, and it was crazy to be with this larger-than-life icon. He was friendly and had fun stories, and it was just so cool to be there. It was nice to be around the other interns, as well! Before we went to the lunch, we got briefed by Erica, our boss (who I adore). I asked her if it would be wierd for me to ask Rob Sheffield for his autograph when he hosts lunch with us in a few weeks, and she said not at all. WELL. When we got out of lunch, Chris and Shannekia (two interns at the office) came running back towards Caroline and me with wide eyes. They said, "OH MY GOSH, SHEFFIELD IS IN THE OFFICE!!" My mouth dropped open and I saw him walk past. I wanted to run away and hide, I was so overwhelmed. Erica told me she'd try to bring him by my desk later, and I thanked her. Caroline and I got back to work, and about an hour or so later, I sense two people standing behind me. There was Erica with freakin' Rob Sheffield, and I quickly pulled myself together and shook his hand. After introducing myself, I told him that I loved his writing, and that "Love Is A Mixtape" is one of my favorite books ever, and that it is beautiful. He thanked me sincerely, and then was introduced to Caroline. We all four got into a long discussion about Lifetime movies, Rock of Love, and other ridiculous pop culture things. It. Was. Amazing. Then he headed off, and Caroline and I freaked out. He later walked by while I was talking to Caroline, so I smiled and waved, and he returned the sentiment. I am in so much awe of that man. He is such a great writer, and he's such a nice man. Sigh.
I also am just loving the people I work with so, so much. I would love to work at Rolling Stone, with every fiber of my being. Caroline and I discussed that desire today when we were hanging out. We met up at 5:30, and then had a whirlwind tour of NYC. We hit up Rockefeller Center for a slice-o-pizza dinner, and chatted about the office. Then we wandered around for a while before deciding on going to the Staten Island ferry, and we rode a round trip (it's free!!) Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty at night. . .nothing prettier, I swear. It was so relaxing, and so much fun to chat someone up about music like that. We wandered around the fancy tip of Manhattan (near Battery Park) for a few minutes, and then we headed home! Home for Caroline is Long Island, so she had to get off at Penn Station, and I got off at Times Square (which was totally bustling) and caught my train home. It was a fabulous day, and I look forward to squeezing out as many more of these as I can while I'm here. Time is moving way, way too fast. It's good and bad at the same time. I will miss this SO much, I can already feel it, but my heart is also aching for friends back home. I wish there was a happy medium, where I could transport people here to live with me. I've said that before, but I can't help it. It's how I feel.
Time to finish my chocolate!! I'll try to update again soon:)
Oh, one last note - the rainboots came in today. HOORAY!!!!!! (Tomorrow's forecast = rainy!)
Wednesday, the interns (all 30 or 40 of us at Wenner Media, aka people in all different departments at all 3 magazines) had lunch with Jann Wenner, the founder of Rolling Stone. He was really cool, and it was crazy to be with this larger-than-life icon. He was friendly and had fun stories, and it was just so cool to be there. It was nice to be around the other interns, as well! Before we went to the lunch, we got briefed by Erica, our boss (who I adore). I asked her if it would be wierd for me to ask Rob Sheffield for his autograph when he hosts lunch with us in a few weeks, and she said not at all. WELL. When we got out of lunch, Chris and Shannekia (two interns at the office) came running back towards Caroline and me with wide eyes. They said, "OH MY GOSH, SHEFFIELD IS IN THE OFFICE!!" My mouth dropped open and I saw him walk past. I wanted to run away and hide, I was so overwhelmed. Erica told me she'd try to bring him by my desk later, and I thanked her. Caroline and I got back to work, and about an hour or so later, I sense two people standing behind me. There was Erica with freakin' Rob Sheffield, and I quickly pulled myself together and shook his hand. After introducing myself, I told him that I loved his writing, and that "Love Is A Mixtape" is one of my favorite books ever, and that it is beautiful. He thanked me sincerely, and then was introduced to Caroline. We all four got into a long discussion about Lifetime movies, Rock of Love, and other ridiculous pop culture things. It. Was. Amazing. Then he headed off, and Caroline and I freaked out. He later walked by while I was talking to Caroline, so I smiled and waved, and he returned the sentiment. I am in so much awe of that man. He is such a great writer, and he's such a nice man. Sigh.
I also am just loving the people I work with so, so much. I would love to work at Rolling Stone, with every fiber of my being. Caroline and I discussed that desire today when we were hanging out. We met up at 5:30, and then had a whirlwind tour of NYC. We hit up Rockefeller Center for a slice-o-pizza dinner, and chatted about the office. Then we wandered around for a while before deciding on going to the Staten Island ferry, and we rode a round trip (it's free!!) Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty at night. . .nothing prettier, I swear. It was so relaxing, and so much fun to chat someone up about music like that. We wandered around the fancy tip of Manhattan (near Battery Park) for a few minutes, and then we headed home! Home for Caroline is Long Island, so she had to get off at Penn Station, and I got off at Times Square (which was totally bustling) and caught my train home. It was a fabulous day, and I look forward to squeezing out as many more of these as I can while I'm here. Time is moving way, way too fast. It's good and bad at the same time. I will miss this SO much, I can already feel it, but my heart is also aching for friends back home. I wish there was a happy medium, where I could transport people here to live with me. I've said that before, but I can't help it. It's how I feel.
Time to finish my chocolate!! I'll try to update again soon:)
Oh, one last note - the rainboots came in today. HOORAY!!!!!! (Tomorrow's forecast = rainy!)
Monday, June 15, 2009
Love, don't let it go/Won't you take me where the streetlights glow.
I won't lie - I'm posting at the moment to avoid homework. It was a busy day, and I just want a break before I jump into reading about the history of our country.
Friday, my pal Jessica from Connecticut came up for a visit, and it was GLORIOUS. We met up at Grand Central, and it was my first time exploring the giant/famous station. It's big and fabulous, just as I expected. Although, with all due respect to NYC, I have to say my favorite station is still Berlin's, because it's just so freakin' HUGE! It's a mall!!!
After getting a little lost walking around the area, we finally got ourselves oriented and headed towards MoMA (the Museum of Modern Art), our first destination for the day. We stopped off at a place called Monster Sushi, which was pretty delish and reasonably priced, but I still prefer IchiRoh (not sure if I spelled that right) just down the road from my homebase. We headed from 42/Lexington (Grand Central) to Monster Sushi (50-something and 6th, I think) and then to MoMA, which was at 53rd and 6th, or something like that. We then spent a good number of hours perusing modern art - Dahli, Picasso, Klimt, Warhol, Pollock, and so many, many more. My absolute favorite was probably "The Empire of Light, II" by Rene Magritte. It's just such a captivating and beautiful painting; it looks like a photograph, really. Except for the whole "it'd be impossible to have night and day at the same time" thing. Details, details.
After this, we walked down a block or two to Magnolia Bakery, and had a tasty caramel cupcake apiece. Then it was off to the Central Park entrance for the Josh Ritter show! We walked from 49th and 6th in the completely wrong direction (both in terms of avenues AND blocks) for an avenue and a block apiece, and then righted ourselves. We walked all the way to 69th and 5th, which, after an entire day on your feet, makes you a little worn out. We also tried to find a grocery store on the way for a picnic at Central Park, but to no avail - we ran into Madison and Park avenues when we tried to find anything, and apparently, people in the area just don't ever eat or get injuries. Anywho, all was well once we finally got into the venue, because they were selling food there! In the interim, we waited in line with a freakin' ton of other folks, and my friend Jade and Jessica's friend Michelle joined us. We traded life and concert stories, and generally yakked it up until we entered the premises. We found a comfy spot on the bleachers at the back of the venue, and set up shop. A veggie burger, bottle of water and cookie later, I was ready for some music. The New York Pops, who were Ritter's back-up band for the evening, opened the night with a song. Then Josh came out to many cheers and happy hoots, and he ripped up the stage with beautiful, lyrically vibrant songs that blended seamlessly with the summer night. Guest stars for SummerStage's opening night of free shows included Hilary Hahn (an INSANELY famous violinist, for those of you who are not orchestra nerds like me), Mark Strand (poet and current Columbia U prof), and freakin' GLEN HANSARD (from "Once," and lead singer of The Frames.) I shrieked when they announced his name, and people turned around to ask me who he was. SO excited!!! All in all the day was fabulous.
The next day, I slept a LOT to make up for using so much energy the day before. I honestly don't really remember what else I did...I know that Jade and I met up, began to watch "Junebug" (which I now need to rent and see fully), and then headed to a bar called "Off The Wagon" to meet her sister and sister's friends for a night of debauchery. I didn't participate long; at 11pm, I decided to call it a night. I'm just not one to bar it, really. But it was great to spend time with Jade, 'cause she's a super cool girl.
Yesterday, I did a decent amount of homework, and watched "High School Musical 3" (DO NOT MOCK ME) with Jade, her roommate Caitlin and my roommate Kate. Melissa's been out all weekend, and I can't WAIT for her return; she's been sorely missed.
Today was a full, busy, happy happy happy day. I got up early, worked out, and then got myself ready to go to Trader Joe's, a much cheaper Whole Foods located only in the northeast, I guess (or at least, I'd never heard of it before this summer/my roommates.) I bought some strawberries, bananas, two microwaveable quiches, string cheese, applesauce and peanuts - great breakfast and lunchtime snacks, all (sans the quiches, which will be in-a-pinch dinner solutions. They were less than $2 a piece!!!) When I got back, the roommate was off to work, so I had a little lunch, waited in the room for our AC fixer guy to finish up, and headed to Queens all by my lonesome. I was a little worried I'd get lost, but I shouldn't have been - it was really quite easy to navigate! I was on the subway train for a LONG time, but finally ended up at my stop, which looked more like a street in Texas than one in NYC - cars, cars everywhere. I crossed the street to the mall, and headed into Forever 21, H&M, and Urban Outfitters to try to find appropriate stuff for my Wednesday luncheon with JANN WENNER. I don't even know what to do with myself, honestly. I'm thinking up questions all of the time, but I could honestly just see myself being so overwhelmed that I just squeak every time I open my mouth. Phew. Anyway, tons of stuff I tried on was ADORABLE, and I ended up with two dresses and some black tights (oh, hipster me!) when all was said and done. Then I came back (a 4-hour adventure, all things told) and had some dinner! Now I've been letting my stomach rest, and it's finally time to get back to homework. Gotta call it an early night so I'm well-rested for work tomorrow! S'long for now.
Friday, my pal Jessica from Connecticut came up for a visit, and it was GLORIOUS. We met up at Grand Central, and it was my first time exploring the giant/famous station. It's big and fabulous, just as I expected. Although, with all due respect to NYC, I have to say my favorite station is still Berlin's, because it's just so freakin' HUGE! It's a mall!!!
After getting a little lost walking around the area, we finally got ourselves oriented and headed towards MoMA (the Museum of Modern Art), our first destination for the day. We stopped off at a place called Monster Sushi, which was pretty delish and reasonably priced, but I still prefer IchiRoh (not sure if I spelled that right) just down the road from my homebase. We headed from 42/Lexington (Grand Central) to Monster Sushi (50-something and 6th, I think) and then to MoMA, which was at 53rd and 6th, or something like that. We then spent a good number of hours perusing modern art - Dahli, Picasso, Klimt, Warhol, Pollock, and so many, many more. My absolute favorite was probably "The Empire of Light, II" by Rene Magritte. It's just such a captivating and beautiful painting; it looks like a photograph, really. Except for the whole "it'd be impossible to have night and day at the same time" thing. Details, details.
After this, we walked down a block or two to Magnolia Bakery, and had a tasty caramel cupcake apiece. Then it was off to the Central Park entrance for the Josh Ritter show! We walked from 49th and 6th in the completely wrong direction (both in terms of avenues AND blocks) for an avenue and a block apiece, and then righted ourselves. We walked all the way to 69th and 5th, which, after an entire day on your feet, makes you a little worn out. We also tried to find a grocery store on the way for a picnic at Central Park, but to no avail - we ran into Madison and Park avenues when we tried to find anything, and apparently, people in the area just don't ever eat or get injuries. Anywho, all was well once we finally got into the venue, because they were selling food there! In the interim, we waited in line with a freakin' ton of other folks, and my friend Jade and Jessica's friend Michelle joined us. We traded life and concert stories, and generally yakked it up until we entered the premises. We found a comfy spot on the bleachers at the back of the venue, and set up shop. A veggie burger, bottle of water and cookie later, I was ready for some music. The New York Pops, who were Ritter's back-up band for the evening, opened the night with a song. Then Josh came out to many cheers and happy hoots, and he ripped up the stage with beautiful, lyrically vibrant songs that blended seamlessly with the summer night. Guest stars for SummerStage's opening night of free shows included Hilary Hahn (an INSANELY famous violinist, for those of you who are not orchestra nerds like me), Mark Strand (poet and current Columbia U prof), and freakin' GLEN HANSARD (from "Once," and lead singer of The Frames.) I shrieked when they announced his name, and people turned around to ask me who he was. SO excited!!! All in all the day was fabulous.
The next day, I slept a LOT to make up for using so much energy the day before. I honestly don't really remember what else I did...I know that Jade and I met up, began to watch "Junebug" (which I now need to rent and see fully), and then headed to a bar called "Off The Wagon" to meet her sister and sister's friends for a night of debauchery. I didn't participate long; at 11pm, I decided to call it a night. I'm just not one to bar it, really. But it was great to spend time with Jade, 'cause she's a super cool girl.
Yesterday, I did a decent amount of homework, and watched "High School Musical 3" (DO NOT MOCK ME) with Jade, her roommate Caitlin and my roommate Kate. Melissa's been out all weekend, and I can't WAIT for her return; she's been sorely missed.
Today was a full, busy, happy happy happy day. I got up early, worked out, and then got myself ready to go to Trader Joe's, a much cheaper Whole Foods located only in the northeast, I guess (or at least, I'd never heard of it before this summer/my roommates.) I bought some strawberries, bananas, two microwaveable quiches, string cheese, applesauce and peanuts - great breakfast and lunchtime snacks, all (sans the quiches, which will be in-a-pinch dinner solutions. They were less than $2 a piece!!!) When I got back, the roommate was off to work, so I had a little lunch, waited in the room for our AC fixer guy to finish up, and headed to Queens all by my lonesome. I was a little worried I'd get lost, but I shouldn't have been - it was really quite easy to navigate! I was on the subway train for a LONG time, but finally ended up at my stop, which looked more like a street in Texas than one in NYC - cars, cars everywhere. I crossed the street to the mall, and headed into Forever 21, H&M, and Urban Outfitters to try to find appropriate stuff for my Wednesday luncheon with JANN WENNER. I don't even know what to do with myself, honestly. I'm thinking up questions all of the time, but I could honestly just see myself being so overwhelmed that I just squeak every time I open my mouth. Phew. Anyway, tons of stuff I tried on was ADORABLE, and I ended up with two dresses and some black tights (oh, hipster me!) when all was said and done. Then I came back (a 4-hour adventure, all things told) and had some dinner! Now I've been letting my stomach rest, and it's finally time to get back to homework. Gotta call it an early night so I'm well-rested for work tomorrow! S'long for now.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
It's been agreed the whole world stinks, so no one's takin' showers anymore.
Well, well, well. It seems that New York City has won my heart. I absolutely love it here. It's exciting, it's fluid, it's different, it's huge, it's awesome. Now, I think part of my complete adoption of my new home comes from the knowledge that I will be heading back to Austin very soon, so I don't feel like I need to miss my Texas home. If I were here for the long haul already, I'd definitely have some homesickness, but not yet. I am still trying to plan a way to kidnap my pals and bring them here to live with me. I mean, think about it - if I brought the 7 or 8 people I'd want to bring with me up here, and we all lived in a house together, it might even be affordable! We could have a TV show about ourselves, too.
I discovered the "Best Week Ever" blog today, and it's SO FUNNY. I'm not the biggest fan of the TV show; the last time I watched, it was very much the type of sad humor that I imagine my middle school buddies and I might come up with. But the blog is just fantastic. Laugh out loud funny.
I'm loving work, I'm loving our latest issue that just hit stands, just loving Rolling Stone generally. The Conor Oberst article is beautiful; I totally recommend it.
I had my first coffee drink this week, and nearly became addicted - a caramel frappuccino from Starbucks. I had one Tuesday, and couldn't help but indulge again Wednesday. Today, I opted for a can of Coca-Cola to get my caffeine kick. Way cheaper, and not quite as detrimental to my health:-P But I'm sure I'll be indulging in the sugary Starbucks creation every now and again. I feel vaguely adult, indulging in a coffee drink. If I switch to straight-up coffee (...with a significant dosage of sugar and milk/creme), I'll really feel like I've crossed the threshold. I'll try to put that off until I graduate in December.
Still loving my living quarters, and overcame a bout of self-consciousness that reared its head this week. As I have been discussing with a few of you Texans, a big problem I've personally faced is remaining true to my no-diet-ever-again-because-diets-do-not-work status. A majority of the friends I've been making here are insanely health conscious, or else they just don't like sweets the way I do. Example: sharing with the roommate that I discovered the caramel frappuccino elicited a "those are so bad!!" to which I, quite surprised, responded, "I thought they were delicious!" And she explained, no, bad FOR you. She said they had too many calories for her to really enjoy them. I had to do a lot of self-talk, reminding myself that comments like that are bred from our dieting culture, and possibly even jealousy at someone actually enjoying a food for its merit of taste. OK, jealous isn't the right word, but it's that subconsciousness of needing to suck others into the calorie-counting norm. I refuse!! I trust that, if I overcome my emotional eating, I will be able to listen to my body's hunger signals, figure out what I'm hungry for, and figure out when I'm satiated. Anyway, sorry for that not-so-New-York update, but that's been something swimming around my brain and I wanted to flush it out a little.
I went to the Virgin Megastore in Union Square on Monday, for their HUGE closing sale. Yep, Virgin is DONE. Record stores in general are having troubles figuring out how to make money, because music has moved to digital format in such a big way. I am glad that this will be better for the environment, but I am going to miss the record store experience SO much. I did get great deals, though: 50% off all music and DVDs!!! 60% and up off other stuff, like clothes and "fixture" items (store TVs, etc.) They are literally selling everything in the store.
The rest of the week has been a whirl of history homework and work. I've been packing my lunches and eating in to save money, so hopefully that's been working. Tomorrow, Jessica (my friend from Connecticut) is coming in to spend the day being touristy with me, and then we're going to the free Summerstage performance by Josh Ritter! Woot:) This is good, because a)I haven't really been able to explore New York as much as I'd like, and b)I haven't been able to hang out in Central Park at ALL. Time to do those things! I *did* go to "Taste of Times Square" on Monday, which was awesome: normally super ritzy and expensive Times Square restaurants were giving away food samples for x number of tickets (which you purchased beforehand; one ticket = one dollar.) Our residential group got 5 tickets, which I spent on a water bottle, a slice of pizza, bread pudding and a brownie. AWESOME. In retrospect, I'd have preferred the cheesecake sample to the brownie, but what can you do? Live and learn!
I'm trying to figure out a way to get to ONE Broadway show this summer. Not sure which one I'd want to do! The residents are going to see Avenue Q for cheap, so that's a tempting option. I dunno, though - I've heard that The Lion King is stunning, and I'm interested in Spring Awakening (is it even still on Broadway??) Weigh in, friends and fam!!
OK, gotta jet - office meeting in five minutes!
I discovered the "Best Week Ever" blog today, and it's SO FUNNY. I'm not the biggest fan of the TV show; the last time I watched, it was very much the type of sad humor that I imagine my middle school buddies and I might come up with. But the blog is just fantastic. Laugh out loud funny.
I'm loving work, I'm loving our latest issue that just hit stands, just loving Rolling Stone generally. The Conor Oberst article is beautiful; I totally recommend it.
I had my first coffee drink this week, and nearly became addicted - a caramel frappuccino from Starbucks. I had one Tuesday, and couldn't help but indulge again Wednesday. Today, I opted for a can of Coca-Cola to get my caffeine kick. Way cheaper, and not quite as detrimental to my health:-P But I'm sure I'll be indulging in the sugary Starbucks creation every now and again. I feel vaguely adult, indulging in a coffee drink. If I switch to straight-up coffee (...with a significant dosage of sugar and milk/creme), I'll really feel like I've crossed the threshold. I'll try to put that off until I graduate in December.
Still loving my living quarters, and overcame a bout of self-consciousness that reared its head this week. As I have been discussing with a few of you Texans, a big problem I've personally faced is remaining true to my no-diet-ever-again-because-diets-do-not-work status. A majority of the friends I've been making here are insanely health conscious, or else they just don't like sweets the way I do. Example: sharing with the roommate that I discovered the caramel frappuccino elicited a "those are so bad!!" to which I, quite surprised, responded, "I thought they were delicious!" And she explained, no, bad FOR you. She said they had too many calories for her to really enjoy them. I had to do a lot of self-talk, reminding myself that comments like that are bred from our dieting culture, and possibly even jealousy at someone actually enjoying a food for its merit of taste. OK, jealous isn't the right word, but it's that subconsciousness of needing to suck others into the calorie-counting norm. I refuse!! I trust that, if I overcome my emotional eating, I will be able to listen to my body's hunger signals, figure out what I'm hungry for, and figure out when I'm satiated. Anyway, sorry for that not-so-New-York update, but that's been something swimming around my brain and I wanted to flush it out a little.
I went to the Virgin Megastore in Union Square on Monday, for their HUGE closing sale. Yep, Virgin is DONE. Record stores in general are having troubles figuring out how to make money, because music has moved to digital format in such a big way. I am glad that this will be better for the environment, but I am going to miss the record store experience SO much. I did get great deals, though: 50% off all music and DVDs!!! 60% and up off other stuff, like clothes and "fixture" items (store TVs, etc.) They are literally selling everything in the store.
The rest of the week has been a whirl of history homework and work. I've been packing my lunches and eating in to save money, so hopefully that's been working. Tomorrow, Jessica (my friend from Connecticut) is coming in to spend the day being touristy with me, and then we're going to the free Summerstage performance by Josh Ritter! Woot:) This is good, because a)I haven't really been able to explore New York as much as I'd like, and b)I haven't been able to hang out in Central Park at ALL. Time to do those things! I *did* go to "Taste of Times Square" on Monday, which was awesome: normally super ritzy and expensive Times Square restaurants were giving away food samples for x number of tickets (which you purchased beforehand; one ticket = one dollar.) Our residential group got 5 tickets, which I spent on a water bottle, a slice of pizza, bread pudding and a brownie. AWESOME. In retrospect, I'd have preferred the cheesecake sample to the brownie, but what can you do? Live and learn!
I'm trying to figure out a way to get to ONE Broadway show this summer. Not sure which one I'd want to do! The residents are going to see Avenue Q for cheap, so that's a tempting option. I dunno, though - I've heard that The Lion King is stunning, and I'm interested in Spring Awakening (is it even still on Broadway??) Weigh in, friends and fam!!
OK, gotta jet - office meeting in five minutes!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
TONY'S!
OK, so I definitely have tons to fill you all in on, but I just want a running list of the celebs I saw when my friends Kate, Jade and I stood across the street from the Radio City Music Hall while people filed into the building for the Tony awards. SUCH a great idea!! And, I do have some pictures, but they're pretty terrible:-P
Will Ferrell
Allison Janney
Liza Minnelli
John Stamos
Anne Hathaway<3<3<3<3
Marcia Gay Harden
Jane Fonda
Bret Michaels
Steven Webber
Jeff Daniels
Kevin Spacey
I *think* that was all, but I will definitely update if I remember more.
I've been exploring the city to an extent, so I will try to update about that soon. My time is so limited and I try to get out as much as possible. OK, be back later!!
Will Ferrell
Allison Janney
Liza Minnelli
John Stamos
Anne Hathaway<3<3<3<3
Marcia Gay Harden
Jane Fonda
Bret Michaels
Steven Webber
Jeff Daniels
Kevin Spacey
I *think* that was all, but I will definitely update if I remember more.
I've been exploring the city to an extent, so I will try to update about that soon. My time is so limited and I try to get out as much as possible. OK, be back later!!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
I know New York, I need New York, I know I need unique New York.
I'm settling in! It's been a week STUFFED with activity. I wanted to keep better track of everything, but I think (with all of the stuff I still need to do, i.e. begin my online history courses, do the work for the internship course, sleep and work out someday?) I will stick to a brief recap, touching on highlights that I can remember.
I love where I work. I'm not always super busy, but now that I know this is the case, I'm going to bring my schoolbooks with me to work. During downtown, I'll knock out some chapters or something. And then, of course, when I end up bringing books and suddenly am busy every second of my day...that'll work out, too! Anyway, the location of the RS office is PRIME. I love being in the Rockefeller Center/Times Square bustle. The subway can be a little crazy, depending on when I'm riding it (the ride home is always insane). But it's all a part of the experience! And now that I have learned to listen to my iPod on my ride, it's much more pleasant.
Loving the roommates, they are fantastic ladies. I'm still meeting people and getting to know people, and there are high points and low points with that. Sometimes people surprise you in a good way, and sometimes, they surprise you in a not so good way. It's OK, though, because it all helps me figure out myself a little bit better.
Speaking of that, I haven't really had ANY "me" time yet, so I'm really hoping to find that. I know I'll get it when I exercise, at the very least. I'm going to run tomorrow, probably just on the treadmill in the gym, but maybe at C. Park if the weather is nice enough.
I really, really enjoy my co-interns. I finally met my third today, and he is just as nice as the first two. That makes the work environment a lot better, of course. He's a HUGE fan of The Smiths, which made me think of Edward.
That's the one drawback, I guess. I think of people I love back home, and I miss them so, so much. I wish I could just magically transport all of you here to be with me. Then it'd be just perfect! I guess that makes the busyness welcomed, though - I haven't had a whole lot of time to think about who and what I'm missing. Cheap stuff is a big one, though:P
Tonight, I am going to dinner with some residents, and then who knows? Part of me wants to get to bed early because I'm exhausted, but the other part says, I don't have to work tomorrow!!! Time to live it UP! We'll see which part wins out.
David Byrne plays a free show Monday that I'm going to try like everything to get into, and I'm going to see Josh Ritter play a free show with Jessica and and friend -
OK, so I was writing this up at work, and had to get BACK to work, so I know that was an awkward and abrupt place to end, but it's time for me to get some rest.
'Til next time!
I love where I work. I'm not always super busy, but now that I know this is the case, I'm going to bring my schoolbooks with me to work. During downtown, I'll knock out some chapters or something. And then, of course, when I end up bringing books and suddenly am busy every second of my day...that'll work out, too! Anyway, the location of the RS office is PRIME. I love being in the Rockefeller Center/Times Square bustle. The subway can be a little crazy, depending on when I'm riding it (the ride home is always insane). But it's all a part of the experience! And now that I have learned to listen to my iPod on my ride, it's much more pleasant.
Loving the roommates, they are fantastic ladies. I'm still meeting people and getting to know people, and there are high points and low points with that. Sometimes people surprise you in a good way, and sometimes, they surprise you in a not so good way. It's OK, though, because it all helps me figure out myself a little bit better.
Speaking of that, I haven't really had ANY "me" time yet, so I'm really hoping to find that. I know I'll get it when I exercise, at the very least. I'm going to run tomorrow, probably just on the treadmill in the gym, but maybe at C. Park if the weather is nice enough.
I really, really enjoy my co-interns. I finally met my third today, and he is just as nice as the first two. That makes the work environment a lot better, of course. He's a HUGE fan of The Smiths, which made me think of Edward.
That's the one drawback, I guess. I think of people I love back home, and I miss them so, so much. I wish I could just magically transport all of you here to be with me. Then it'd be just perfect! I guess that makes the busyness welcomed, though - I haven't had a whole lot of time to think about who and what I'm missing. Cheap stuff is a big one, though:P
Tonight, I am going to dinner with some residents, and then who knows? Part of me wants to get to bed early because I'm exhausted, but the other part says, I don't have to work tomorrow!!! Time to live it UP! We'll see which part wins out.
David Byrne plays a free show Monday that I'm going to try like everything to get into, and I'm going to see Josh Ritter play a free show with Jessica and and friend -
OK, so I was writing this up at work, and had to get BACK to work, so I know that was an awkward and abrupt place to end, but it's time for me to get some rest.
'Til next time!
Monday, June 1, 2009
Gone, gone [to] New York City.
Day 2(ish); technically, I arrived just about this time yesterday in the room I'm currently inhabiting. There's a TV with free cable directly above my bed, tons of storage space (although it took me a while to figure out where everything would go), a window (out to...brick walls:P), a fridge/freezer with a microwave sitting on top, and three of us sleeping and eating and generally living in here. I didn't sleep a wink before my flight up here, so I was understandably exhausted. I basically made it through yesterday on adrenaline alone (especially because I also was only able to eat half of a muffin during my travels!) I met some friends on my second flight from Charlotte, North Carolina to La Guardia here in NYC, and one of them actually lives in a different EHS building, just about 40 blocks from me in Manhattan! We exchanged contact info, and we also shared a cab (saved me about 5 or 8 bucks or something). Plus, it was just nice to have a friend on the first leg of the cab ride. One of my favorite parts about yesterday = seeing the Statue of Liberty from the plane. It looked a lot smaller from way up in the air, but it was still cool. I also was reminded just how much water is around New York; there's a LOT! When I got into the residence and checked myself in, I headed up to my room (10th floor!) and introduced myself to one of my roommates, Kate, who is from Michigan and interning with Comedy Central. Way cool! We chatted for a while, and I tried to fix my computer's power plug (long, uninteresting and annoying story - it's fixed now, that's the important part.) Then our third roommate came back from shopping at Kmart (gotta hit that up, I bet it's much cheaper than stuff around here!) and she introduced herself. Her name is Melissa, and she's interning for W Magazine (the fashion mag.)
Then, at around 5pm, Kate and I went to a sushi place just a few blocks over from here, and I had two rolls (sweet potato and avocado/cucumber), both were AMAZING (of course I was famished so I'm pretty sure anything I put in my face was going to taste amazing.) They also brought us fresh sliced pineapple and orange - key to my HEART, I tell you! Then we trudged back to the room, and I continued unpacking and tried to stay alert until our little meet and greet at 8pm. I met the other Texan in the residence (we just happened to be sitting next to each other - I guess we're drawn together or something!) and she is super sweet. Her name is Angelina, and she's taking some theater classes. I also met Jan, who is super boisterous and a little too rowdy for me. I think he was taking classes at the New York Film Academy. After we went around the (giant!!) circle and everyone introduced themselves, we got a rundown of rules and such, and then Angelina and I introduced ourselves to two other girls, Antonia and Caroline. Super sweet ladies, and we all exchanged phone numbers so we could grab food and do all that crazy stuff.
A lot of people here are health/exercise nuts, which is going to be a little difficult for me because of my eating disorder. I just need to keep my head high and keep reading my books! I want to keep meeting people and making friends, but by the same token, I want to also focus on finishing my two history classes in a speedy (and A+!) manner, and to kick butt at my internship. For now, I need to get a move on; I'm going to go buy my month-long subway pass, and then I'm going to take the subway to my work so I'll be ready for tomorrow morning, my first day (eep!) Then I want to get back in time for a walking tour of the neighborhood with other residents, at 6pm. It's already quarter to 4, so it's time to go! I'll check back in soon, I'm sure. For now, my overwhelming feelings are: excitement, homesickness (hardcore, I miss you all:(,) and "OK, I can do this!"-ness.
Then, at around 5pm, Kate and I went to a sushi place just a few blocks over from here, and I had two rolls (sweet potato and avocado/cucumber), both were AMAZING (of course I was famished so I'm pretty sure anything I put in my face was going to taste amazing.) They also brought us fresh sliced pineapple and orange - key to my HEART, I tell you! Then we trudged back to the room, and I continued unpacking and tried to stay alert until our little meet and greet at 8pm. I met the other Texan in the residence (we just happened to be sitting next to each other - I guess we're drawn together or something!) and she is super sweet. Her name is Angelina, and she's taking some theater classes. I also met Jan, who is super boisterous and a little too rowdy for me. I think he was taking classes at the New York Film Academy. After we went around the (giant!!) circle and everyone introduced themselves, we got a rundown of rules and such, and then Angelina and I introduced ourselves to two other girls, Antonia and Caroline. Super sweet ladies, and we all exchanged phone numbers so we could grab food and do all that crazy stuff.
A lot of people here are health/exercise nuts, which is going to be a little difficult for me because of my eating disorder. I just need to keep my head high and keep reading my books! I want to keep meeting people and making friends, but by the same token, I want to also focus on finishing my two history classes in a speedy (and A+!) manner, and to kick butt at my internship. For now, I need to get a move on; I'm going to go buy my month-long subway pass, and then I'm going to take the subway to my work so I'll be ready for tomorrow morning, my first day (eep!) Then I want to get back in time for a walking tour of the neighborhood with other residents, at 6pm. It's already quarter to 4, so it's time to go! I'll check back in soon, I'm sure. For now, my overwhelming feelings are: excitement, homesickness (hardcore, I miss you all:(,) and "OK, I can do this!"-ness.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Turning my head out/To see what I'm all about.
About to crawl into bed; I wanted to be there about an hour and a half ago, but my mind is starting to finally try to wrap itself around the notion that, yes, in about 2 weeks - less, in fact - I'll board a plane in Austin, Texas, switch off in North Carolina, arrive in New York City, grab a taxi, and make my home for the summer in Manhattan, right alongside Central Park. This blog will attempt to document the experiences I have this summer, interning at one of the best established music publications in the world. I'm not going to write anything about Rolling Stone, for many reasons (but I'll be more than happy to recount more specific interning stories via Skype - find me on there, my loves!) Instead, I'm going to focus on the rest of the experience: living in the largest city in the United States (over 8 million people), going to as many shows as possible, finding a running buddy to hit up Central Park with me, visiting museums and all that craziness, meeting people and making connections, and figuring myself out in the process.
In trying to come up with an appropriate title for this blog, I did some research. I looked up quotes about New York, and two of my favorite both talked about how New York helps people to find the best in themselves, and helps truly shape an identity. In discovering New York, you discover yourself; you piece together your past to forge a self in this giant, heterogeneous present. I also discovered that a freakin' boatload of songs have been written about New York. I'm going to try to start listening to more of these over the summer, if possible. Ultimately, I went with the Simon & Garfunkel song that I played to death (along with The Decemberists' "Myla Goldberg") while I waited to hear back from RS, "Only Living Boy in New York." I took out "only," because I think there are going to be multiple of us living this summer; all of my intern buddies I will make will surely be vibrantly alive, just like me.
I leave you with lyrics to the S&G song; see you soon!
"Tom, get your plane right on time.
I know your part'll go fine.
Fly down to Mexico.
Da-n-da-da-n-da-n-da-da and here I am,
The only living boy in New York.
I get the news I need on the weather report.
I can gather all the news I need on the weather report.
Hey, I've got nothing to do today but smile.
Da-n-da-da-n-da-da-n-da-da here I am,
The only living boy in New York.
Half of the time we're gone but we don't know where,
And we don't know where.
Tom, get your plane right on time.
I know you've been eager to fly now.
Hey, let your honesty shine, shine, shine,
Da-n-da-da-n-da-da-n-da-da,
Like it shines on me.
The only living boy in new york,
The only living boy in new york."
In trying to come up with an appropriate title for this blog, I did some research. I looked up quotes about New York, and two of my favorite both talked about how New York helps people to find the best in themselves, and helps truly shape an identity. In discovering New York, you discover yourself; you piece together your past to forge a self in this giant, heterogeneous present. I also discovered that a freakin' boatload of songs have been written about New York. I'm going to try to start listening to more of these over the summer, if possible. Ultimately, I went with the Simon & Garfunkel song that I played to death (along with The Decemberists' "Myla Goldberg") while I waited to hear back from RS, "Only Living Boy in New York." I took out "only," because I think there are going to be multiple of us living this summer; all of my intern buddies I will make will surely be vibrantly alive, just like me.
I leave you with lyrics to the S&G song; see you soon!
"Tom, get your plane right on time.
I know your part'll go fine.
Fly down to Mexico.
Da-n-da-da-n-da-n-da-da and here I am,
The only living boy in New York.
I get the news I need on the weather report.
I can gather all the news I need on the weather report.
Hey, I've got nothing to do today but smile.
Da-n-da-da-n-da-da-n-da-da here I am,
The only living boy in New York.
Half of the time we're gone but we don't know where,
And we don't know where.
Tom, get your plane right on time.
I know you've been eager to fly now.
Hey, let your honesty shine, shine, shine,
Da-n-da-da-n-da-da-n-da-da,
Like it shines on me.
The only living boy in new york,
The only living boy in new york."
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