Friday, August 27, 2010
The End
Well, my loyal readers... I am afraid this may be the end of my blog. As you know, I have often struggled with topics to write and it has started to feel more like a chore than an outlet or a fun venue. I never wanted my blog to be stressful for me to come up with topics, but sadly it has, and given I know I have a lot of people reading... I do not like to disappoint. Each week I felt pressure to update... sometimes more than once a week. And I have just struggled to always come up with new topics. So, I am starting a new chapter in my life soon... new job, and being married. I feel this may be the right time to put the blog to bed for good. As always, I would welcome your comments. And I do thank you for reading through the years... it has been fun and I love knowing that so many of you actually took the time to read what I had to say... regardless of how silly it often was. So again, thank you for reading!!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Moving On
I wanted to let everyone know that I will be leaving my position as Program Director at the Roitenberg Residence effective September 8. I have accepted a position with Bloomington Public School's Community Education as the Out of School Time Programs Manager. In this position, I will supervise 12 people... each of whom is responsible for all "out of school" programming at one of the elementary schools in the district. They in turn will each supervise a handful of people as well. There are many programs in my department including before and after school care, summer programming, musical opportunities, academic programs, and much more. If you are really interested, check out this link: http://www.bloomington.k12.mn.us/community_ed/youth_development/index.html
I will supervise all programs except Galaxy and the Volunteer program listed on this page.
Needless to say I am extremely excited about this opportunity as it is a very large step-up for me in my career. I will begin in Bloomington on September 13. As always, you can e-mail me or comment below. Thanks for reading my blog.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
I will supervise all programs except Galaxy and the Volunteer program listed on this page.
Needless to say I am extremely excited about this opportunity as it is a very large step-up for me in my career. I will begin in Bloomington on September 13. As always, you can e-mail me or comment below. Thanks for reading my blog.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Monday, August 16, 2010
We Have A Winner
This time seven people turned in answers for the unscramble blog post below. Four people had them all right and were entered into the drawing for the prize. Chad picked the winner, so if you are unhappy... be mad at him. The winner is...
Allison Rosenthal
For those who wanted answers... here you go.
1. Theater
2. Sweets
3. People Watching
4. Money
5. Camp
6. Mountains
7. Walgreens
8. Love
9. Air Conditioning
10. Tattoos
11. Gifts
12. Vacation
13. Kansas
14. Aruba
15. Comedy
16. State Fair
17. Entertaining
18. Survivor
19. Haircuts
20. Cereal
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Allison Rosenthal
For those who wanted answers... here you go.
1. Theater
2. Sweets
3. People Watching
4. Money
5. Camp
6. Mountains
7. Walgreens
8. Love
9. Air Conditioning
10. Tattoos
11. Gifts
12. Vacation
13. Kansas
14. Aruba
15. Comedy
16. State Fair
17. Entertaining
18. Survivor
19. Haircuts
20. Cereal
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Who Will Win?
I have done this before, and thanks to Kerry's suggestion, I am doing it again. Today's blog is completely interactive. Below are 20 things I like. All you have to do is unscramble them. The fun part... a prize is at stake. Last time, Wendy Beth Gahm was the big winner. Will she get it again, or will someone de-throne the Unscramble Queen.
Once you have unscrambled all 20 words, send me your answers via e-mail (ablocke10@gmail.com) or a message on Facebook. Don't leave your response as a comment here or you will be giving your answers away. Please note numbers 3, 9, and 16 are two word answers separated by a //. Some are definitely harder than others... Good luck!
1. T R H E E T A
2. E S E S W T
3. E P L P O E // H G T W C A I N
4. O E N M Y
5. C P A M
6. N T U I O S N A M
7. S G E W A E L R N
8. E L V O
9. R I A // I G I N C O N N T D I O
10. S O T A T O T
11. F S G I T
12. N V C O T I A A
13. N S K A A S
14. B A R A U
15. Y M E O D C
16. T T E S A // R F A I
17. G T R I N N E I T A N E
18. V R I S O V R U
19. I R A T S H U C
20. E C L E A R
Remember, these are all things I like. You have until the end of the day Friday to submit your answers via e-mail or message on Facebook. Someone wins a prize... good luck!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Once you have unscrambled all 20 words, send me your answers via e-mail (ablocke10@gmail.com) or a message on Facebook. Don't leave your response as a comment here or you will be giving your answers away. Please note numbers 3, 9, and 16 are two word answers separated by a //. Some are definitely harder than others... Good luck!
1. T R H E E T A
2. E S E S W T
3. E P L P O E // H G T W C A I N
4. O E N M Y
5. C P A M
6. N T U I O S N A M
7. S G E W A E L R N
8. E L V O
9. R I A // I G I N C O N N T D I O
10. S O T A T O T
11. F S G I T
12. N V C O T I A A
13. N S K A A S
14. B A R A U
15. Y M E O D C
16. T T E S A // R F A I
17. G T R I N N E I T A N E
18. V R I S O V R U
19. I R A T S H U C
20. E C L E A R
Remember, these are all things I like. You have until the end of the day Friday to submit your answers via e-mail or message on Facebook. Someone wins a prize... good luck!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Herzl's Not-So-Top 10 List
I have been experiencing writers block lately, and that is not a good thing when you have a blog due for Herzl Camp. So I thought I would do a Top 10 list of something and post it on my personal blog too. But suddenly, this got harder than I thought…
Top 10 Famous People at Herzl Camp
1. Bob Dylan
2. Bryan Greenberg
Well, that did not get me too far. Okay… how about another topic…
Top 10 Colors to Wear on Shabbat
1. White
I think we have exhausted that list.
Top 10 Old Flag Songs
1. Oh Canada
Hmmm… bad idea. Next?
Top 10 Old Herzl Programs
1. N’Divim
2. Maba
Yes there are others… but there are certainly not 10. These were the two best programs no longer in existence.
Top 10 Herzl Words
1. Ozo
2. Koontz
And the list was over. No word is better than Koontz!
Top 10 Hot Tubs
1. Ozo Mo
You cannot come up with 10 when there only is one in camp.
Top 10 Optional Breakfasts
1. Cinnamon Rolls
It used to rotate every other week between the cinnamon rolls and bagels, but alas, still not 10 to choose from.
Top 10 Herzl Stories
1. Rosemary
2. The Clown
3. Kundra
Okay… this is getting scary. I need to stop.
Top 10 Herzl Colors
1. Orange
2. Brown
That’s a pretty boring list.
Top 10 Herzl Sports Gone by the Wayside
1. Teatherball
I am still in shock that it is gone.
And then it hit me… a Top 10 List that could work…
Top 10 Places to Spend Your Summer
1. Herzl Camp
2. Machaneh Herzl
3. Herzl
4. Machaneh Paradise
5. Webster, Wisconsin
6. The shores of Devil’s Lake
7. The former Log Cabin Inn
8. The town next to Siren, Wisconsin
9. Theo’s Summer Shack
10. The greatest place on Earth
Okay, it was a stretch, but you get the point. Dorothy says “There is no place like home.” But I say… There is no place like Herzl Camp!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Top 10 Famous People at Herzl Camp
1. Bob Dylan
2. Bryan Greenberg
Well, that did not get me too far. Okay… how about another topic…
Top 10 Colors to Wear on Shabbat
1. White
I think we have exhausted that list.
Top 10 Old Flag Songs
1. Oh Canada
Hmmm… bad idea. Next?
Top 10 Old Herzl Programs
1. N’Divim
2. Maba
Yes there are others… but there are certainly not 10. These were the two best programs no longer in existence.
Top 10 Herzl Words
1. Ozo
2. Koontz
And the list was over. No word is better than Koontz!
Top 10 Hot Tubs
1. Ozo Mo
You cannot come up with 10 when there only is one in camp.
Top 10 Optional Breakfasts
1. Cinnamon Rolls
It used to rotate every other week between the cinnamon rolls and bagels, but alas, still not 10 to choose from.
Top 10 Herzl Stories
1. Rosemary
2. The Clown
3. Kundra
Okay… this is getting scary. I need to stop.
Top 10 Herzl Colors
1. Orange
2. Brown
That’s a pretty boring list.
Top 10 Herzl Sports Gone by the Wayside
1. Teatherball
I am still in shock that it is gone.
And then it hit me… a Top 10 List that could work…
Top 10 Places to Spend Your Summer
1. Herzl Camp
2. Machaneh Herzl
3. Herzl
4. Machaneh Paradise
5. Webster, Wisconsin
6. The shores of Devil’s Lake
7. The former Log Cabin Inn
8. The town next to Siren, Wisconsin
9. Theo’s Summer Shack
10. The greatest place on Earth
Okay, it was a stretch, but you get the point. Dorothy says “There is no place like home.” But I say… There is no place like Herzl Camp!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Friday, July 30, 2010
The Invites Are Coming, The Invites Are Coming
That's right... with 72 days until the wedding, tomorrow we are sending out the invitations!! I am really excited about it. Each thing we do it feels more and more real. But now... we are actually inviting people to the event. It appears that our final number will be 158 invited. We both know (and are hoping... lol) that not everyone will be able to make it. We are anticipating around 130 people coming. There are also a few people I feel bad about not inviting, but things/circumstances/relationships change, and therefore, you cannot invite everyone you know. If we had more money, I would invite a lot more people, but we don't, and so it is what it is.
We received our official bid from our new florist... we just need to make a few adjustments and we will be all set with that.
We have cocktail napkins ordered for the cocktail hour and the sweet table.
Almost all of the attendants have been measured for their tuxes. A few have not... you know who you are... grrrrrrrrrrrr!!!
Other than that, I think I have shared all of the latest information. So tomorrow the invites go out, and then we will already be getting response cards back by the end of next week. Fun!!!
Check back often fore more Random Ramblings!
We received our official bid from our new florist... we just need to make a few adjustments and we will be all set with that.
We have cocktail napkins ordered for the cocktail hour and the sweet table.
Almost all of the attendants have been measured for their tuxes. A few have not... you know who you are... grrrrrrrrrrrr!!!
Other than that, I think I have shared all of the latest information. So tomorrow the invites go out, and then we will already be getting response cards back by the end of next week. Fun!!!
Check back often fore more Random Ramblings!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
You're Such A Character
I have not done one of my "top 10" lists for awhile, and I am sure you miss them... especially because it means I am not going to be yakking on about the wedding. So today I have for you my top 10 favorite TV characters of all time. Granted, these are only from the shows I watched, so I am sure there are some better ones out there, but this is my blog, and so I get to tell you my favorites. These are, in order:
10. Jo Polnachek (Facts of Life) - A true lesbian ahead of her time. Clearly if they re-made that show today, she would be out of the closet and not dating men. She also always had some great one liners and I loved her relationship with Blair.
9. Addison Montgomery (Private Practice) - She is the brains behind the operation. A world-class surgeon who is not only down to Earth, but beautiful as well. She definitely has herself some drama, no question, but she definitely earns her #9 spot.
8. Abby Lockhart (ER) - There was just always something I liked about Abby. I actually miss seeing her on Thursday nights. She was full of drama, and even went through some REALLY annoying points in the show, but she triumphed through the crap and came out on top.
7. Mike Sever (Growing Pains) - Who didn't want to be like Mike when they grew up? He was a good kid at heart, but always got into a little bit of fun. Mischief was his middle name, but somehow, there was always a "learning experience" for everything he went through.
6. Brian Kinney (Queer as Folk) - Brian made no bones about it... he did not give a fuck. Not about you, me, or anyone else. Yes, he had great friends and a good job. I would NEVER in a million years want his lifestyle, but I always had a soft spot for Brian Kinney. He just needed a hug and to know someone loved him.
5. Maxine Gray (Judging Amy) - Talk about someone who did not give a fuck. Maxine would do it her way, no matter what. She was above the law, and had a mouth that would make a sailor blush. She always had great lines and I wish they would have given that character her own show.
4. Roseanne Conner (Roseanne) - Easily one of the trashiest people ever on TV, but so damn funny. She also did not really care what people though and she totally embraced her "trashiness." Her character was written very well, and I am sure a lot of it mirrored her own life.
3. Rachel Greene (Friends) - I did not really fall in love with Rachel until the series ended, but they wrote her lines SO well. And not only was she written well, but she delivered them well. She was such a good comedian and I just wish I could pull out lines like Rachel did.
2. Amanda Woodward (Melrose Place) - The chief bitch... and I loved her. Amanda was rotten, nasty, and said things that everyone was thinking. She is another one who did not care about anyone else... she was all business and she did not mess around.
1. Karen Walker (Will & Grace) - This was an easy one. There is no doubt in my mind, Karen Walker was the best character ever on TV. True, her character evolved as the show went on, but she was funny from beginning to end. And they could not have found a better person to play her than Megan Mullally.
There you have it... my favorite TV characters of all time. Who are yours? Did I miss any?
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
10. Jo Polnachek (Facts of Life) - A true lesbian ahead of her time. Clearly if they re-made that show today, she would be out of the closet and not dating men. She also always had some great one liners and I loved her relationship with Blair.
9. Addison Montgomery (Private Practice) - She is the brains behind the operation. A world-class surgeon who is not only down to Earth, but beautiful as well. She definitely has herself some drama, no question, but she definitely earns her #9 spot.
8. Abby Lockhart (ER) - There was just always something I liked about Abby. I actually miss seeing her on Thursday nights. She was full of drama, and even went through some REALLY annoying points in the show, but she triumphed through the crap and came out on top.
7. Mike Sever (Growing Pains) - Who didn't want to be like Mike when they grew up? He was a good kid at heart, but always got into a little bit of fun. Mischief was his middle name, but somehow, there was always a "learning experience" for everything he went through.
6. Brian Kinney (Queer as Folk) - Brian made no bones about it... he did not give a fuck. Not about you, me, or anyone else. Yes, he had great friends and a good job. I would NEVER in a million years want his lifestyle, but I always had a soft spot for Brian Kinney. He just needed a hug and to know someone loved him.
5. Maxine Gray (Judging Amy) - Talk about someone who did not give a fuck. Maxine would do it her way, no matter what. She was above the law, and had a mouth that would make a sailor blush. She always had great lines and I wish they would have given that character her own show.
4. Roseanne Conner (Roseanne) - Easily one of the trashiest people ever on TV, but so damn funny. She also did not really care what people though and she totally embraced her "trashiness." Her character was written very well, and I am sure a lot of it mirrored her own life.
3. Rachel Greene (Friends) - I did not really fall in love with Rachel until the series ended, but they wrote her lines SO well. And not only was she written well, but she delivered them well. She was such a good comedian and I just wish I could pull out lines like Rachel did.
2. Amanda Woodward (Melrose Place) - The chief bitch... and I loved her. Amanda was rotten, nasty, and said things that everyone was thinking. She is another one who did not care about anyone else... she was all business and she did not mess around.
1. Karen Walker (Will & Grace) - This was an easy one. There is no doubt in my mind, Karen Walker was the best character ever on TV. True, her character evolved as the show went on, but she was funny from beginning to end. And they could not have found a better person to play her than Megan Mullally.
There you have it... my favorite TV characters of all time. Who are yours? Did I miss any?
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Goodbye Lindsay
Lindsay Lohan can rot in jail for all I care. She is a fucked-up, sick, twisted girl, and she needs help. I grant you, her parents should be shot and killed too... they are pretty awful. But that is no excuse for her. She continues to break the law, disobey her parole, and act like a complete moron. In the end, she thinks she won't go to jail and won't have to pay for her crime because she is Lindsay Lohan. Well guess what... that is exactly why she is going to jail. This judge has had enough of her, just like the rest of us. I am so glad she stuck it to her... I just wish her sentence was longer. Because in 23 days (the expected length she will serve), that twit is going to be back on the streets drinking, snorting, and annoying the hell out of me.
Mel Gibson and Oksana are another pair of people I would not mind if they fell off the face of the Earth. He is a disgusting excuse for a human being, and I do not think she is much better. They deserve each other.
Yes, I go to tmz.com, people.com, and usmagazine.com daily. And yes, it is their responsibility to deliver all of the gossip to us, but enough is enough. They need better subjects. Come to think of it, I think I have blogged about this before. Maybe I am the one who needs new material!!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Mel Gibson and Oksana are another pair of people I would not mind if they fell off the face of the Earth. He is a disgusting excuse for a human being, and I do not think she is much better. They deserve each other.
Yes, I go to tmz.com, people.com, and usmagazine.com daily. And yes, it is their responsibility to deliver all of the gossip to us, but enough is enough. They need better subjects. Come to think of it, I think I have blogged about this before. Maybe I am the one who needs new material!!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
An Update on the Wedding
You asked for it.... you got it. I have to say, I am surprised though. In my last blog post, I left it up to the reader to vote on what this post would be about. I only got three replies, but all of them wanted an update on the wedding. I assumed everyone was sick of hearing about it. Well, if you are... stop reading now. If you want more... read on...
Things are really moving along swimmingly. Let's catch everyone up-to-date. My second mother, Linda Gersick, who happens to be my mother's best friend, and one of my best friend's mothers (let's see if you can translate that) is serving as our wedding coordinator. She is SO damn good. She thinks of things like... "how will the butter be displayed on the table?" We met with her and got a list of more things to do and figure out... but they are all things I am glad we now know.
We had a mock-up with the linens and our florist. Without going into any details, things looked great, however, we have changed florists. We will now be using Richfield Flower and Events for the big day. They do many, if not most, of the Jewish weddings here in town, and we are excited to have them on board. We know everything will go off without a hitch.
We had a second tasting with the caterer because they changed chefs. Needless to say... the food is still great and we were all impressed with Chef Eric at Joseph Catering. He is really into presentation, and it shows!!
The invitations are stamped, addressed, and just waiting to be sealed. Once that is done, we will get them in the mail August 1. Well, August 2 actually because the first is a Sunday.
Our guys are all busy getting fitted for their tuxes. The ladies are dealing with their dresses and "purple accents."
This Sunday, we have our first shower!!! We are so excited for it. My friends Alli, Andrea, and Danny, along with their three wonderful spouses, are doing a brunch/shower. It should be a blast.
Linda, the wedding coordinator, and another friend of my mother's, Shelly, will also be giving us a shower. I believe that one will be on Sunday, August 15. I also think my friend Jen is doing a shower for me at work. I am truly blessed to have all of these wonderful people in my life.
Let's see, what else... the program for the ceremony is typed, our cocktail (ha ha, you said cocktail) napkins are ordered, kippot are in hand, items are disappearing off of our registries, and all of our vendors are making their lists and checking them twice.
So what is next? We need to get fitted for our tuxes as well, programs need to be printed, invites need to be sent, speeches have to get written, Hebrew names need to be learned to be written for the Ketubah, place cards need printing, and tables need to be decided, though those cannot happen until we get RSVPs back.
So that is where we are. I know there are a million more things that need to be done, but that is a quick snapshot for you. It is amazing how fast this past year has gone. I know the 87 days coming up will go even quicker. Fell free to check out our wedding website for some new pictures and updated information. http://www.theknot.com/ourwedding/AlexLocke&ChadHewitt
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Things are really moving along swimmingly. Let's catch everyone up-to-date. My second mother, Linda Gersick, who happens to be my mother's best friend, and one of my best friend's mothers (let's see if you can translate that) is serving as our wedding coordinator. She is SO damn good. She thinks of things like... "how will the butter be displayed on the table?" We met with her and got a list of more things to do and figure out... but they are all things I am glad we now know.
We had a mock-up with the linens and our florist. Without going into any details, things looked great, however, we have changed florists. We will now be using Richfield Flower and Events for the big day. They do many, if not most, of the Jewish weddings here in town, and we are excited to have them on board. We know everything will go off without a hitch.
We had a second tasting with the caterer because they changed chefs. Needless to say... the food is still great and we were all impressed with Chef Eric at Joseph Catering. He is really into presentation, and it shows!!
The invitations are stamped, addressed, and just waiting to be sealed. Once that is done, we will get them in the mail August 1. Well, August 2 actually because the first is a Sunday.
Our guys are all busy getting fitted for their tuxes. The ladies are dealing with their dresses and "purple accents."
This Sunday, we have our first shower!!! We are so excited for it. My friends Alli, Andrea, and Danny, along with their three wonderful spouses, are doing a brunch/shower. It should be a blast.
Linda, the wedding coordinator, and another friend of my mother's, Shelly, will also be giving us a shower. I believe that one will be on Sunday, August 15. I also think my friend Jen is doing a shower for me at work. I am truly blessed to have all of these wonderful people in my life.
Let's see, what else... the program for the ceremony is typed, our cocktail (ha ha, you said cocktail) napkins are ordered, kippot are in hand, items are disappearing off of our registries, and all of our vendors are making their lists and checking them twice.
So what is next? We need to get fitted for our tuxes as well, programs need to be printed, invites need to be sent, speeches have to get written, Hebrew names need to be learned to be written for the Ketubah, place cards need printing, and tables need to be decided, though those cannot happen until we get RSVPs back.
So that is where we are. I know there are a million more things that need to be done, but that is a quick snapshot for you. It is amazing how fast this past year has gone. I know the 87 days coming up will go even quicker. Fell free to check out our wedding website for some new pictures and updated information. http://www.theknot.com/ourwedding/AlexLocke&ChadHewitt
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
The Choice is Yours
Once again, I have hit writers block. I am not quite sure what to write. So... I am leaving it up to you, my loyal followers, to vote on what you would like me to write about. Below are a few options. Please vote by leaving a comment. If none of these ideas strike you, by all means, propose something new. In any case, please vote... the top "vote getter" wins, and will be the subject of my next blog entry.
- An update on the wedding
- A "random ramble" where I throw out random thoughts
- A rant on people not RSVPing, calling back, replying to e-mails, etc.
- Favorite vacations/destinations to date
- The top 10 ice cream flavors around
Well, the choice is up to you. What would you like me to write about? Leave your vote as a comment below.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
- An update on the wedding
- A "random ramble" where I throw out random thoughts
- A rant on people not RSVPing, calling back, replying to e-mails, etc.
- Favorite vacations/destinations to date
- The top 10 ice cream flavors around
Well, the choice is up to you. What would you like me to write about? Leave your vote as a comment below.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
The Name Game
Everyone is pregnant. If they aren't pregnant, they want to be. Others are adopting. In any case... children are inevitable whether you want them or not. Personally, no thank you.... no kids for us. But for those of you planning on one in the future, here are some name suggestions for you. You will notice a couple names on the boys AND girls list. They just work well for either. Also, you will see 10 boys names, and only six girls names. Back when I wanted kids, I always wanted boys and no girls. Still must ring true today because I could not come up with more than six girls names. In any case, in no particular order...
Boy Names:
1. Noah
2. Kyle
3. Jackson
4. Jake
5. Loren
6. Nathan
7. Logan
8. Jesse
9. Austin
10. Max
Girl Names:
1. Molly
2. Maxine
3. Amanda
4. Lauren
5. Jordan
6. Victoria
There you have it. Feel free to offer other names in the comment section.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Boy Names:
1. Noah
2. Kyle
3. Jackson
4. Jake
5. Loren
6. Nathan
7. Logan
8. Jesse
9. Austin
10. Max
Girl Names:
1. Molly
2. Maxine
3. Amanda
4. Lauren
5. Jordan
6. Victoria
There you have it. Feel free to offer other names in the comment section.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Here's to Dear Old Herzl
This weekend, Chad and I were lucky enough to spend Shabbat up at Herzl Camp. It was SO fun being there while camp was going on. In fact, this was my first Shabbat since I was Papa Ozo being back at camp with campers. It was so fun. Everyone has heard about the AMAZING new cabins, the gorgeous Mercaz with backs on the benches, the accessibility of the waterfront, and of course, the new Haks. So... I am not going to talk any more about that, other than to say they are all awesome additions, and it still TOTALLY feels like camp.
Instead, I am going to give you some of what people have been asking for. A comparison of what traditions are still around, and what is new at camp. Here we go...
Same Old, Same Old
- Shabbat caravan with everyone in white
- Good old matzo ball soup
- People walk around in pairs with candles during song session Friday nights
- Cinnamon rolls for optional breakfast
- Mama and Papa still yacking on the mic through optional breakfast
- Beautiful services at the Mercaz
- Shabbat rotations with the same offerings (though Ultimate only had about 10 people)
- Chicken nuggets for Saturday lunch
- Salad for dinner Saturday night
- Dancing and music for breakfast
- Camp ruach
- Awesome staff
- Campers having the time of their lives
- Lem Lem
New Traditions
- Counselors write the flag songs
- No more Shabbat packets with songs and readings... just services
- Chicken breasts on Friday night, instead of whole chicken parts
- Rice on Friday night instead of those little potato thingies
- Different songs Friday night... a lot more English and modern songs
- Following Oneg, no one stays in the mo... no more Foosball
- Throughout services, staff remind everyone to drink water in the mic
- Potato latkes accompany the chicken nuggets
- Typical ruach session after lunch, not all of the old schtick
- Shabbat Sichot are assigned by cabin, not an option of different topics
- Ranch dressing now offered for Saturday dinner
- Chipwiches instead of Eskimo Pies!!!
- Town nights are only Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday
- Older staff... Papa Ozo is 24
- No more teatherball
- Very different staff structure
- Head staff all use walkie talkies
- Much better ratio of staff to campers
Though camp certainly looks different, and many of the things have changed over the years, it is still the same Herzl Camp we have all grown to know and love. Some people reject the new, but in truth, having been there and seen everything with my own eyes, change is good. It is for the better. Sure, kids are no longer slipping on the floor of the old chadar with a tray of food, but isn't that a good thing? No, Papa Ozo isn't 20, like when I was, but again, he has four more years of life experience than I did with the same job. And yes, the staff have walkie talkies, and you could argue that we did just fine without out them, but you know what... it is a lot safer to have them.
Things will always change. There will always be new traditions. But what still matters is the ruach and magic of Herzl Camp that will be there for years to come, regardless of if we have a Chipwich or an Eskimo Pie!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Instead, I am going to give you some of what people have been asking for. A comparison of what traditions are still around, and what is new at camp. Here we go...
Same Old, Same Old
- Shabbat caravan with everyone in white
- Good old matzo ball soup
- People walk around in pairs with candles during song session Friday nights
- Cinnamon rolls for optional breakfast
- Mama and Papa still yacking on the mic through optional breakfast
- Beautiful services at the Mercaz
- Shabbat rotations with the same offerings (though Ultimate only had about 10 people)
- Chicken nuggets for Saturday lunch
- Salad for dinner Saturday night
- Dancing and music for breakfast
- Camp ruach
- Awesome staff
- Campers having the time of their lives
- Lem Lem
New Traditions
- Counselors write the flag songs
- No more Shabbat packets with songs and readings... just services
- Chicken breasts on Friday night, instead of whole chicken parts
- Rice on Friday night instead of those little potato thingies
- Different songs Friday night... a lot more English and modern songs
- Following Oneg, no one stays in the mo... no more Foosball
- Throughout services, staff remind everyone to drink water in the mic
- Potato latkes accompany the chicken nuggets
- Typical ruach session after lunch, not all of the old schtick
- Shabbat Sichot are assigned by cabin, not an option of different topics
- Ranch dressing now offered for Saturday dinner
- Chipwiches instead of Eskimo Pies!!!
- Town nights are only Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday
- Older staff... Papa Ozo is 24
- No more teatherball
- Very different staff structure
- Head staff all use walkie talkies
- Much better ratio of staff to campers
Though camp certainly looks different, and many of the things have changed over the years, it is still the same Herzl Camp we have all grown to know and love. Some people reject the new, but in truth, having been there and seen everything with my own eyes, change is good. It is for the better. Sure, kids are no longer slipping on the floor of the old chadar with a tray of food, but isn't that a good thing? No, Papa Ozo isn't 20, like when I was, but again, he has four more years of life experience than I did with the same job. And yes, the staff have walkie talkies, and you could argue that we did just fine without out them, but you know what... it is a lot safer to have them.
Things will always change. There will always be new traditions. But what still matters is the ruach and magic of Herzl Camp that will be there for years to come, regardless of if we have a Chipwich or an Eskimo Pie!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Thursday, July 1, 2010
The 4th
I love the 4th of July... I always have. In fact, it is one of my favorite holidays. Partly because I love fireworks, but also because I love being patriotic. It is an opportunity for our entire country to be on the same side... to celebrate our freedom.
Last year, we went to Door County over the 4th. It was really fun, and we saw some of the best fireworks EVER. We were on a dinner cruise, so we were in the middle of the lake. Those were awesome fireworks.
This year, Chad and I are going up to Herzl for the weekend. I am SO excited to be there. Minus the reunion in 2004 and Alumni Camp is 2009, this will be my first time experiencing a Herzl Camp Shabbat since my last summer in 1997. I am really excited to be there, with campers, for an actual Shabbat. I am also excited for Chad to experience a real Herzl Shabbat as well.
That does not help with plan for the actual 4th of July. We will be home Sunday in time for fireworks. So... which ones should we go to? Any ideas?
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Last year, we went to Door County over the 4th. It was really fun, and we saw some of the best fireworks EVER. We were on a dinner cruise, so we were in the middle of the lake. Those were awesome fireworks.
This year, Chad and I are going up to Herzl for the weekend. I am SO excited to be there. Minus the reunion in 2004 and Alumni Camp is 2009, this will be my first time experiencing a Herzl Camp Shabbat since my last summer in 1997. I am really excited to be there, with campers, for an actual Shabbat. I am also excited for Chad to experience a real Herzl Shabbat as well.
That does not help with plan for the actual 4th of July. We will be home Sunday in time for fireworks. So... which ones should we go to? Any ideas?
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Pride and More
This weekend was Gay Pride in the Twin Cities. Though I did not used to go, it is now a tradition for Chad and I. We park in the same place, watch the parade from the same place, and then tour the festival at Loring Park. Because I am proud of who I am, I think Pride is important for me to go to now. I do not go to wrap myself in rainbows, wear glittery lipstick, and call everyone I see "guuuurrrrrl." I go because it is the one time each year that Chad and I can hold hands in a public place and be in the majority. For once, each year, it feels safe and comfortable to be just one of the many, instead of the token.
That said, I still cannot believe some of the shenanigans that go one. Women dressed as men, men dressed as women, woman going shirtless except for little sparkly things over their nipples, and don't even get me started on the amount of rainbows! I am gay, and I am proud... but I still do not see why Pride turns into this weird-o naked thing for some people. I mentioned the topless Lezbos... what about the men in barrels who want to show you their junk, of the guys who wear these TINY banana hammocks that leave nothing to the imagination. I just don't understand. Be out, be proud, be gay, but why do you have to be so weird.
I love Pride, but I also realized it is part of what gives many of us a bad name. For better or worse, that is how it is. I am glad I went, I will continue to go, and I will still hope that one day what is normal for me, is normal for the rest of the "straight" world.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
That said, I still cannot believe some of the shenanigans that go one. Women dressed as men, men dressed as women, woman going shirtless except for little sparkly things over their nipples, and don't even get me started on the amount of rainbows! I am gay, and I am proud... but I still do not see why Pride turns into this weird-o naked thing for some people. I mentioned the topless Lezbos... what about the men in barrels who want to show you their junk, of the guys who wear these TINY banana hammocks that leave nothing to the imagination. I just don't understand. Be out, be proud, be gay, but why do you have to be so weird.
I love Pride, but I also realized it is part of what gives many of us a bad name. For better or worse, that is how it is. I am glad I went, I will continue to go, and I will still hope that one day what is normal for me, is normal for the rest of the "straight" world.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Some Random Thoughts
For lack of anything to say, but in the interest of giving my loyal readers something to read... here are some random thoughts:
- I miss Herzl and cannot wait to go next week
- Will & Grace is my favorite thing to watch before going to sleep
- I wish my back, tailbone, feet, etc. were all better than they are
- I bought something called a "Tush Cush" for my tailbone... lol
- Flavoring your water makes it easier to drink more
- It is almost 100 days until the wedding
- I wish you were entitled to unlimited days off at work, provided you still get your work done
- My family has been doing so much for the wedding, and I really love/appreciate them
- This month I tried fried green tomatoes, alligator, green beans, and bratwurst
- I am going fishing today and HATE fish (both touching and eating them)
- I really dislike when people around me use speakerphone... LOUDLY
- I get bored easily
- I also have a secret
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
- I miss Herzl and cannot wait to go next week
- Will & Grace is my favorite thing to watch before going to sleep
- I wish my back, tailbone, feet, etc. were all better than they are
- I bought something called a "Tush Cush" for my tailbone... lol
- Flavoring your water makes it easier to drink more
- It is almost 100 days until the wedding
- I wish you were entitled to unlimited days off at work, provided you still get your work done
- My family has been doing so much for the wedding, and I really love/appreciate them
- This month I tried fried green tomatoes, alligator, green beans, and bratwurst
- I am going fishing today and HATE fish (both touching and eating them)
- I really dislike when people around me use speakerphone... LOUDLY
- I get bored easily
- I also have a secret
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Thanks For Last Night
Hey Anna, thanks for last night! What a blast!!!
So last night, Anna Simon invited a bunch of Herzl alumni over for a potluck, in honor of Flip Frisch and her daughter, Scout, being in town. It was SO much fun! First, as promised, I have to give a shout-out to all of those in attendance. Apparently, a lot of them read this blog, which I love. So, here is all of the people who attended:
Robyn (Friedman) Wetter, Stacy (Kaplan) and Jesse Simon, Jesse Zimmerman, Cory and Jenny Friedman, Hope (Frisch) and Jeremy Kalin, Rachel (Tolles) and Sam Rosen, Marlene and Jim Bukstein, Roni (Kornblum) and Mike Falck, Kim (Schneider) and Aaron Gelperin, Debra Fiterman and Alex Arbit, Jon Gilbert, (Jenny) Javitch, Alyssa and Barry Golob, and of course Anna Simon, Flip Frisch, Chad, and me!
My sincerest apologizes if I left anyone out or misspelled any of the names.
So, it was a great crowd. As everyone arrived, we were all catching up. Someone of us have not seen each other in MANY years... others get together on a regular basis. It was so fun schmoozing and chatting with everyone. At one point I commented on all of the occupations there... doctors, lawyers, politicians, IT professionals, camp directors, teachers, and several non-profit workers. It is so fun to see what people choose to do with their lives.
We all talked for a long time, mixing between the groups, going from one circle to the next. There was a ton of food there, though my only complaint is I wanted to know who made what. Next time everyone needs a little table-tent in front of their dish saying what it was and who made it. The curiosity of it all was too hard on me. lol
Eventually, those who were left, made our way to the grass. We sat in a circle, Flip busted out the guitar, and we had a little lights-out song session. It was great. Following that, it was time for Havdallah. Who does Havdallah every week? No one, which is why it was so nice and special. After that, we all helped clean-up and we were on our way.
Herzl is a magical place. You spend umpteen years there as a child and then as a staff member. After camp, you go your separate ways, but eventually, it always brings you back together for a little potluck, song session, and Havdallah. It links you to these people forever and that is a powerful thing. On the drive home, Chad commented on how much he wishes he had something like this growing up. He cannot believe how close and tight people are, even after they have not seen each other for years. There was also a huge age range, but everyone was together as BFFs and it was so fun. Chad also commented that he wants to donate more money to Jewish camps because it gives kids who cannot afford it, the chance at a lifetime of memories. And that, is the power of Herzl Camp. Chad and I are going up for a weekend July 2-4, and I am so excited... as is he. He got his own Taste of Herzl last summer at alumni camp, but this year he will get to see camp in action. A full on, white filled, Herzl Shabbat. And while he is not a 10 year old boy, I already know that these Herzl experiences, will give Chad a lifetime of Herzl memories.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
So last night, Anna Simon invited a bunch of Herzl alumni over for a potluck, in honor of Flip Frisch and her daughter, Scout, being in town. It was SO much fun! First, as promised, I have to give a shout-out to all of those in attendance. Apparently, a lot of them read this blog, which I love. So, here is all of the people who attended:
Robyn (Friedman) Wetter, Stacy (Kaplan) and Jesse Simon, Jesse Zimmerman, Cory and Jenny Friedman, Hope (Frisch) and Jeremy Kalin, Rachel (Tolles) and Sam Rosen, Marlene and Jim Bukstein, Roni (Kornblum) and Mike Falck, Kim (Schneider) and Aaron Gelperin, Debra Fiterman and Alex Arbit, Jon Gilbert, (Jenny) Javitch, Alyssa and Barry Golob, and of course Anna Simon, Flip Frisch, Chad, and me!
My sincerest apologizes if I left anyone out or misspelled any of the names.
So, it was a great crowd. As everyone arrived, we were all catching up. Someone of us have not seen each other in MANY years... others get together on a regular basis. It was so fun schmoozing and chatting with everyone. At one point I commented on all of the occupations there... doctors, lawyers, politicians, IT professionals, camp directors, teachers, and several non-profit workers. It is so fun to see what people choose to do with their lives.
We all talked for a long time, mixing between the groups, going from one circle to the next. There was a ton of food there, though my only complaint is I wanted to know who made what. Next time everyone needs a little table-tent in front of their dish saying what it was and who made it. The curiosity of it all was too hard on me. lol
Eventually, those who were left, made our way to the grass. We sat in a circle, Flip busted out the guitar, and we had a little lights-out song session. It was great. Following that, it was time for Havdallah. Who does Havdallah every week? No one, which is why it was so nice and special. After that, we all helped clean-up and we were on our way.
Herzl is a magical place. You spend umpteen years there as a child and then as a staff member. After camp, you go your separate ways, but eventually, it always brings you back together for a little potluck, song session, and Havdallah. It links you to these people forever and that is a powerful thing. On the drive home, Chad commented on how much he wishes he had something like this growing up. He cannot believe how close and tight people are, even after they have not seen each other for years. There was also a huge age range, but everyone was together as BFFs and it was so fun. Chad also commented that he wants to donate more money to Jewish camps because it gives kids who cannot afford it, the chance at a lifetime of memories. And that, is the power of Herzl Camp. Chad and I are going up for a weekend July 2-4, and I am so excited... as is he. He got his own Taste of Herzl last summer at alumni camp, but this year he will get to see camp in action. A full on, white filled, Herzl Shabbat. And while he is not a 10 year old boy, I already know that these Herzl experiences, will give Chad a lifetime of Herzl memories.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
New Orleans Reviewed
Well, sorry everyone. I just wrote a VERY long and detailed re-cap of my trip that took about a half hour to write. But then, something got fucked up when I went to post it, and it vanished. I am NOT about to re-write everything I did, but suffice it to say.... it was a SHITTY place that I never plan on returning to. Chad feels the same way. Here are a few bullet points as a re-cap:
- Disgustingly hot a humid weather... heat index of 107 each day
- Found a place we liked to eat called Gordon Biersch
- Another great restaurant was Louisiana Pizza Kitchen
- Got a bobblehead after a long and exhaustive search
- Stayed across from the casino
- Had a king size bed despite being told we could not get one and would be in two double beds
- Took a city tour that included Katrina destruction
- Walked the French Quarter
- Have beginets and cafe au lait at the world-famous Cafe Du Mond
- Stopped and took pictures at Brad and Angelina's house... someone was watching TV inside
- Took a tour of the Laura plantation
- Got first class seats and a free ticket on the way home to give up our seats; we will use the free ticket to go visit Chad's family sometime next year.
And that is pretty much the condensed version minus a lot of detail. NOLA sucks... big time!!!!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
- Disgustingly hot a humid weather... heat index of 107 each day
- Found a place we liked to eat called Gordon Biersch
- Another great restaurant was Louisiana Pizza Kitchen
- Got a bobblehead after a long and exhaustive search
- Stayed across from the casino
- Had a king size bed despite being told we could not get one and would be in two double beds
- Took a city tour that included Katrina destruction
- Walked the French Quarter
- Have beginets and cafe au lait at the world-famous Cafe Du Mond
- Stopped and took pictures at Brad and Angelina's house... someone was watching TV inside
- Took a tour of the Laura plantation
- Got first class seats and a free ticket on the way home to give up our seats; we will use the free ticket to go visit Chad's family sometime next year.
And that is pretty much the condensed version minus a lot of detail. NOLA sucks... big time!!!!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Off to the Big Easy
On Sunday, Chad and I are going to New Orleans for the week. He has a conference there, and I have never been, so I decided to tag along. I am looking forward to it, as I love to travel, and often enjoy new places. However, the weather is supposed to blow. It is supposed to be in the 90's, high humidity, and stormy the entire time. So basically, I will get really used to seeing the inside of our hotel room. Which, by the way, only has two double beds. That pisses me off, but the entire hotel is booked and that is what they have us in. I am hoping when we check in they will have something better. I would even settle for a queen at this point.
So, that is pretty much it. I won't be blogging from New Orleans, but will certainly write when I get back in a week. Have a wonderful week, and thanks for reading.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
So, that is pretty much it. I won't be blogging from New Orleans, but will certainly write when I get back in a week. Have a wonderful week, and thanks for reading.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Random Update
Good morning everyone. First, Happy Memorial Day, and a BIG thank you to the men and women who serve our country and defend our freedom every single day. We would not have the lives that we live without all of you, so a true heartfelt "thank you" to each and every one of you!!!
Second, I have totally neglected my blog this week. I am sorry about that. I am not sure how many readers I have any more (though I would love to know so shoot me an e-mail or leave a comment so I know who is still reading), but my apologies for not writing last week. It was just a crazy, busy week. Today, I have a bit more time, so thought I would update you on a few things.
Of course, my biggest thing was the tattoo this week. I absolutely LOVE it. I am not going to be one of those macho men that says, "eh, it barely hurt." I am here to tell you, it hurt like a bitch!!! But, I am really glad I got it. I have always wanted one, and am so happy with the way it looks. Poohki at Steady Tattoo is amazing. If you are ever in the market for some ink, go to Poohki. I believe Chad will be going to him coming up soon.
We also finally finished our registration. That is NOT an easy process. However, it is done, and I am really excited with the things we registered for. Ultimately, we have registries at Bed Bath & Beyond (our main registry), Specially Yours (our "fun" registry), and Sears (our small and random, but important registry). Now the fun part will be seeing what we actually get. Good times!!
I also had my cavities filled. Nothing too exciting to report there, but again, major kudos to my dentist, Dr. Bomberg. He gets me numb every time (not an easy task), and I do not feel a thing, not even the novicaine shot (also not easy). The nitrous oxide also helps!!
This weekend, Chad and I each bought a Nintendo DS. A smart buy? Probably not... we have no money!! A fun buy? Absolutely!!! I love it, and to set the record straight, I AM smarter than a 5th grader (one of the games I bought)!!!! Having the DS will definitely keep me busy next week in New Orleans, and then on the 14-night honeymoon. It will be great to have.
So, that is pretty much the excitement these days. Today I am at work for Memorial Day and will be showing "The Blind Side" to my tenants during lunch for the Cinema Cafe. They love it, so it makes it all worth it.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Second, I have totally neglected my blog this week. I am sorry about that. I am not sure how many readers I have any more (though I would love to know so shoot me an e-mail or leave a comment so I know who is still reading), but my apologies for not writing last week. It was just a crazy, busy week. Today, I have a bit more time, so thought I would update you on a few things.
Of course, my biggest thing was the tattoo this week. I absolutely LOVE it. I am not going to be one of those macho men that says, "eh, it barely hurt." I am here to tell you, it hurt like a bitch!!! But, I am really glad I got it. I have always wanted one, and am so happy with the way it looks. Poohki at Steady Tattoo is amazing. If you are ever in the market for some ink, go to Poohki. I believe Chad will be going to him coming up soon.
We also finally finished our registration. That is NOT an easy process. However, it is done, and I am really excited with the things we registered for. Ultimately, we have registries at Bed Bath & Beyond (our main registry), Specially Yours (our "fun" registry), and Sears (our small and random, but important registry). Now the fun part will be seeing what we actually get. Good times!!
I also had my cavities filled. Nothing too exciting to report there, but again, major kudos to my dentist, Dr. Bomberg. He gets me numb every time (not an easy task), and I do not feel a thing, not even the novicaine shot (also not easy). The nitrous oxide also helps!!
This weekend, Chad and I each bought a Nintendo DS. A smart buy? Probably not... we have no money!! A fun buy? Absolutely!!! I love it, and to set the record straight, I AM smarter than a 5th grader (one of the games I bought)!!!! Having the DS will definitely keep me busy next week in New Orleans, and then on the 14-night honeymoon. It will be great to have.
So, that is pretty much the excitement these days. Today I am at work for Memorial Day and will be showing "The Blind Side" to my tenants during lunch for the Cinema Cafe. They love it, so it makes it all worth it.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Update
Update to the post below... we are now also registered at Sears. Follow the same link below to access our registry.
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