Thanks for Flying the Friendly Skies

Thanks for Flying the Friendly Skies- Southwest Flight 561

I want to apologize to readers in advance as I can safely say this blog will not reflect my best writing. I am currently en route from Denver to BWI, on a full yet somewhat comfortable SW Airlines Flight. My writing skills will not be as in tune as I would like, as I have my iPod turned up loud enough to deafen even my surrounding passengers, due to the 2 year old in the next row over who has not stopped screaming since we took off. An hour and 45 minutes ago. Yes, that’s correct. All I have heard for 105 minutes is a screaming baby. Not that there’s anything wrong with that….but for fucks sake, give it a break. Your parent(s) have resigned themselves to Rum and Cokes at 10am, however, this is not an option for all of us. As much as I would like to drop $50 on three airline cocktails, it’s not in my cards right now. Anyhow, I digress.

I haven’t blogged in a few days, as I have been spending quality time with my three nephews and sister in law. A lot has transpired in the past few days. To start off, let me be one of the first to congratulate La Gringa on the birth of her son, Patrick Sheridan. I wish LG, hubby, and baby Patrick love and happiness in the upcoming year!

Second, I find myself growing ever restless in my current living situation. It is not ideal, as you know, however I don’t want to come to regret any time that is not spent with Grandmother in her last days. It is common knowledge to both friends and family that I want to get the hell out of Dodge, but as the time comes closer, the question has arisen as to where. (As for a bit of irony, Motley Crue’s Home Sweet Home currently plays on the iPod). My first thought: Miami/Ft. Lauderdale. I miss the beach terribly, and do have a friend or two in the area that could show me the ropes. Upon further thought, what a crap idea. I am not loaded, trendy, fake, or plastic. Furthermore, the amount of temptation facing me in Miami is insurmountable. Plus, as my good friend so eloquently put it: “Dude, have you ever been to Miami? Like, in Summer?” Point well taken.

After a bit of research on job opportunity, atmosphere, and cost of living, Austin has become a leading contender in my “find a place to live” search. I have heard nothing but amazing things about Austin, and the job market actually looks quite promising right now. The atmosphere/culture seems awesome too- great food, great music, great nightlife. Now mind you, I have never been to Austin, however, this doesn’t intimidate me. I hadn’t been to San Diego in 10 years yet still picked up and headed out there. (I must interrupt real quick to say they really must make airplane trays larger….fucking A….good luck trying to fit my laptop, cup, soda can, and iPod all on here without totally pissing off the lady next to me). Ok so anyways, as I was saying, I do have friends in Austin too, including the aforementioned La Gringa. I’m sure she would love a free babysitter (and by baby I mean Patrick and Baci) around also!! Although I have only met her in person once, I truly consider her a great person and an amazing friend! So, your thoughts on Austin are appreciated.

Now, until this trip, the third option, Denver, has been previously discussed but not too seriously. I am not a terribly “outdoorsy” person (unless you count sitting on my ass drinking at the beach for 8 hours outdoorsy), and I am not a huge fan of the dryness of Denver. In addition, I don’t like the idea of being totally landlocked. It actually makes me a bit anxious and somewhat panicy. However, there is one key element to Denver: my family. My brother is my best friend, sis-in-law is an awesome person, and I love my little nephews more than I could ever possibly fathom. At this point in my life, I think that family is something that is so critical to me, and I can’t imagine not having any family around as I have gotten used to it. We see where it landed me in San Diego. In addition to Todd and Kim, Kim’s sister and her husband also live in the area, whom I adore as well. In fact, I spent a night out with Kristy during the trip, and we had a great time. Did some great shopping, followed by dinner/music in Olde Town Arvada.

Another huge positive of Denver? Snowboarding. Southern California does not really offer you all you could possibly want in boarding. A huge negative of Denver? No Surf/Ocean. Will the family be enough for me, or will I continue to go stir crazy? I think probably a little bit of both. Job opportunity is not as great in Denver as it is in Austin, however, COL is much more affordable. In addition, having family around, I could probably swing a free meal here and there  (Do you think people on planes like it when you whistle along to your iPod? Yeah, me neither). So, your thoughts on Denver are much appreciated.

Now, I hate to look at these two options in the light of climate over family, as this is not really the case; I would LOVE to live near family…just wish it wasn’t in Denver. I know I have the option to move if I am not happy, but that gets to be a pain in my ass. So, I came on this trip hoping to do a bit of soul searching, and I think I have done so…but would still welcome any comments you might have for me. It is my decision, however, outside contributions are strongly welcomed.

Now, my next piece of news is not really news, more just like me thinking out loud. I have found myself in a new online type of relationship…no, nothing like match.com, but a fellow “persona” I have come to know over the years through brief email exchange, etc. My fellow moniker and I have come to chatting daily, and have become quite close I would say in a few short days. I look forward to our daily conversation, and find myself thinking of him often…even though we have never met in person. Why is it that I seem to find seemingly compatible mates at the least opportune time? I leave San Diego, and then I really get to know this person? And yes, you know who you are. I know you are reading this. I think you and I could get along quite well. How does a bi-coastal relationship sound to you?  Hey, just putting it out there…we are pretty honest about everything else! Plus, I know I am not the only person who thinks this would be a great match….Your thoughts and comments are welcomed. Want to visit Austin with me in a few weeks?

Let’s see, what else…LOST!!!! LOST has returned folks, like my best friend from a long vacation. However, I don’t know if I am allowed to talk about it yet as there are still a few who have not yet seen it. I told them I wouldn’t ruin it for them. However, please feel free to discuss amongst yourselves. And Artist, please let me know if you have seen it so we can talk about it!!! Geez!!!!