This whole experience is unique and has really come full circle. I did not know what to expect coming to DC, and I got something different out of it than I had originally thought. I was pretty sure I wanted to quit work after the first day because I did not know what I was doing. For a while, I hated my apartment, now I just tolerate it, at least for 1 more night. The monuments have been seen, the tours taken, and the papers written. As I write this, well, as of last Sunday, I officially finished undergraduate college academic work. I have no more tests to take, assignments to turn in, or other things to do school related. I have been to my last student football game, my last basketball game. I never did swim in the Red-Cedar, but, that's probably a good thing. I have done a lot, such as studying abroad, but I have missed out on a lot, too. I am legitimately getting sad thinking back on all of this. As great as things were in college, there was tons of bad things, and I don't really know how much I have grown up. I am still horribly dependent on others, can't get around on my own very well, and remain without career direction. What now?! I'll stop boring what few readers I have left, and get to my last day of spanning.
The completion of my internship at the SPAN was nothing like my first. I knew (for the most part) what I was doing, I had friends, I had a desk, and a purpose. I did tons of work that involved finalizing the generic graphic books, checking all graphics (with plenty of help), shoot sheet finding, tape running, and more. I would spend the time and go into full detail about what all of that means, but you wuould have no idea what any of it meant, so I will spare you all the details. Would a job there be the ideal spot, well, maybe, but it would only be a stop-over. I could not make a career of it. I was fairly busy my last day, and nobody treated me any differently because I was leaving, at least no until the end of the day. One by one, co-workers, young and old, would come up to me, shake me hang, hug me, and tell me what a great job I did for them this semester. There were times I wasn't sure they appreciated me (JUST KIDDING), but it was nice to have them approach me as relay that sentiment. I learned a lot, whether it was from my office dad Dennis, office mom shannon, aunt molly, uncle james, cousin rich, pete, angie, brian, PB, Bill x 2, paul r and o, victor, halai, molly b, matt, slade, seth, taylor, cynthia, lew, deb, mark, nike, james, dan, and more I am sure I am forgetting. There are more that I am undoubtedly forgetting, but you all mean a lot to me. I can honestly say that I have made a lot of friends, and I am fortunate for this experience. I had to turn in my credentials, and clean out my area. I packed up my coffee cups, my last rundown, and walked out the door (in the rain) for my last walk home past the capitol and such.
As I walked, I turned on my Ipod, and the song that came on was 'Save Tonight' by Eagle Eye Cherry. It is somewhat (vauguely) about last days or nights or whatever you want to call it, but it seemed fitting. Tomorrow I would be gone. And I am gone, which is sad.
I am going to miss the SPAN, I am going to miss DC, and I am going to miss the great friends I have made here. What's next? WHo knows, least of all me. I know I will sadly end up in some crappy law school I don't want to be at anyways, but I have no other choice. I have missed deadlines for programs, not taking the rights tests, and generally failed at this thing called the future. OH, well... I can always just flip french fries...
More to come, this is just a taste of the last few days...I hope all is well.
ANdy
Friday, April 17, 2009
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
From White Castle to the White House
You all saw ‘Harold and Kumar go to White Castle,’ right? If not, the movie’s premise is that two stoners want to get some White Castle hamburgers, but run into a series of set backs as they smoke their way across New Jersey. Anyways, the star actor, if you can call him that, is Kal Penn. I have nothing against Kal Penn, and he is a decent enough actor, but I was surprised to see that he had been killed off of his current show, House, as he committed suicide in the latest episode. Why would they kill off Kumar! It wasn’t until Monday that I found out…here we go.
In my time here in Washington, DC, I never though I would make it to Barry’s House. Of course I joke about my weekly basketball game with number 44, but in reality, I had never been closer than the gates on 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. I petitioned everyone with contacts over the course of my semester in DC to get me into the people’s house, as Obama likes to say. Finally, I met Megan. Megan is the White House field producer for the SPAN, and she and another co-worker watched a MSU tournament game with me at the bar. I half jokingly asked Megan to take me, as press. So, what did Megan do???? SHE GOT ME A PRESS PASS!!!! I have been to the Vatican, I have toured Spain, France, Israel, the ancient Roman ruins, I have visited the Greek Isles, the historic Acropolis, and more. But, I’ll be honest, and I don’t mean this to put down any of the other things or places I have seen, but, IT IS THE WHITE HOUSE!!!!! By far, one of the coolest things I have ever been able to do in my life! Let’s get to the story…
Monday, the day I finally made it to the White House, although not as president myself, was the day of the Annual White House Easter Egg Roll. Thousands of kids flooded the South Lawn (which is the softest grass I have ever been on) and rolled eggs across it. Fergie (of Pea fame), gave a concert (and later sang the national anthem for the Prez), and in walked…KUMAR! Yes, we are back to Kumar. Apparently, the reason he was ‘killed off’ of House was that he was offered a position as one of Obama’s advisers at the White House! CRAZY! He left his high-paying actor job, to serve the man. Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t! I’d do anything for Barry!
Back in FDR’s term, with his polio crippling him later on, he had a swimming pool installed at the White House. Rumors circulated that Kennedy often used it with a certain female named Marilyn. Anyways, the pool has since been drained, and it currently resides beneath the current press briefing room, which was built over the pool some time ago. Now, the pool houses the tech center for all of the cables and servers used by the TV networks. The pool’s walls, drains, gutters, and flooring is all still in place. Then, I was asked by a presser… “Do you want to sign it?” Like any good, classy restaurant, a la Crunchy’s, people who are privy to such a special place are able to sign the walls. I couldn’t not do it! To sign the White House pool?! To be forever marked on history?! So I took the sharpie that was extended to me and signed. I could have just signed anywhere, but I decided to leave a mark. I signed right above a certain General, maybe you’ve heard of him…David Petraeus? HOW COOL IS THAT?!?!?!?!?!?
For the rest of the day, I helped Megan with her work, took in a press brief with Robert Gibbs, and I swear I could see CJ Craig, and I even sat in Danny Concannon’s Seat! Sorry, I’m a West Wing nerd.
Most people don’t ever get to do something like that. I spent 10 hours hanging out at the White House. I was within 5 feet of Barack, Michele, and the kids. I could have reached out and touched Joe Biden, and Fergie. I could have had a White Castle burger at the White House with Kumar. How fortunate I am! I was within 20 feet of the Oval Office! I even had a secret service escort! Ok, not just me, all media have to have one to move about the grounds. THANK YOU, MEGAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And no, I did not see Bo. Bo is the new white house Portuguese Water dog that Sasha and Malia were promised on election night. The dog arrived the day after I was there.
I’ve been on the floor of the U.S. Capitol, I have been inside the White House, and now it’s time to go. There will be a very bitter sweet post coming soon about my last day of work, which was today. I’ll save the emotion for later.
In my time here in Washington, DC, I never though I would make it to Barry’s House. Of course I joke about my weekly basketball game with number 44, but in reality, I had never been closer than the gates on 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. I petitioned everyone with contacts over the course of my semester in DC to get me into the people’s house, as Obama likes to say. Finally, I met Megan. Megan is the White House field producer for the SPAN, and she and another co-worker watched a MSU tournament game with me at the bar. I half jokingly asked Megan to take me, as press. So, what did Megan do???? SHE GOT ME A PRESS PASS!!!! I have been to the Vatican, I have toured Spain, France, Israel, the ancient Roman ruins, I have visited the Greek Isles, the historic Acropolis, and more. But, I’ll be honest, and I don’t mean this to put down any of the other things or places I have seen, but, IT IS THE WHITE HOUSE!!!!! By far, one of the coolest things I have ever been able to do in my life! Let’s get to the story…
Monday, the day I finally made it to the White House, although not as president myself, was the day of the Annual White House Easter Egg Roll. Thousands of kids flooded the South Lawn (which is the softest grass I have ever been on) and rolled eggs across it. Fergie (of Pea fame), gave a concert (and later sang the national anthem for the Prez), and in walked…KUMAR! Yes, we are back to Kumar. Apparently, the reason he was ‘killed off’ of House was that he was offered a position as one of Obama’s advisers at the White House! CRAZY! He left his high-paying actor job, to serve the man. Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t! I’d do anything for Barry!
Back in FDR’s term, with his polio crippling him later on, he had a swimming pool installed at the White House. Rumors circulated that Kennedy often used it with a certain female named Marilyn. Anyways, the pool has since been drained, and it currently resides beneath the current press briefing room, which was built over the pool some time ago. Now, the pool houses the tech center for all of the cables and servers used by the TV networks. The pool’s walls, drains, gutters, and flooring is all still in place. Then, I was asked by a presser… “Do you want to sign it?” Like any good, classy restaurant, a la Crunchy’s, people who are privy to such a special place are able to sign the walls. I couldn’t not do it! To sign the White House pool?! To be forever marked on history?! So I took the sharpie that was extended to me and signed. I could have just signed anywhere, but I decided to leave a mark. I signed right above a certain General, maybe you’ve heard of him…David Petraeus? HOW COOL IS THAT?!?!?!?!?!?
For the rest of the day, I helped Megan with her work, took in a press brief with Robert Gibbs, and I swear I could see CJ Craig, and I even sat in Danny Concannon’s Seat! Sorry, I’m a West Wing nerd.
Most people don’t ever get to do something like that. I spent 10 hours hanging out at the White House. I was within 5 feet of Barack, Michele, and the kids. I could have reached out and touched Joe Biden, and Fergie. I could have had a White Castle burger at the White House with Kumar. How fortunate I am! I was within 20 feet of the Oval Office! I even had a secret service escort! Ok, not just me, all media have to have one to move about the grounds. THANK YOU, MEGAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And no, I did not see Bo. Bo is the new white house Portuguese Water dog that Sasha and Malia were promised on election night. The dog arrived the day after I was there.
I’ve been on the floor of the U.S. Capitol, I have been inside the White House, and now it’s time to go. There will be a very bitter sweet post coming soon about my last day of work, which was today. I’ll save the emotion for later.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
The Birthday Weekend Continues...
It went a little something like this...
I thought I would have this grand posse (do people still say posse, or is it entourage now?) going out, making a big wild spectacle, and all of that. But, in reality, the way it worked out was probably more manageable.
The way it was planned was as follows. My friend James was in town visiting his sister, Elise, who is interning out here in DC as well, except she is really smart, and will have a real job in no time. She also did go to law school (which she strongly advised me against doing!) Anyways, my plans were to meet up with them that night for dinner, have my roommates and MSU friends come meet up with us after, and have a ridiculous night to (if all went well) not remember. I met James and Elise in a neighborhood with lots of unique restaurants and bars called Adams Morgan. This is the neighborhood you don't want to be caught alone in after 1 pm, but, you are generally safe! For dinner we went to a 5 story bar/saloon called Madam's Organ. I know, confusing right, eating at a place called Madam's Organ in Adams Morgan. Say that 3 times fast! Dinner was good, birthday cocktails much appreciated, and the night was shaping up well. After a few more cocktails, we moved on to a bar called Bourbon where we were meeting with Elise's roommate, and my friend Dennis from work (and supposedly my roommates and people from MSU). Well, Dennis came, and Elise's roommate Marie came, but no people from MSU. They were doing other things. It was nothing like the birthday last year in Roma, my 21st, in which everyone who I talked to at some point in Italy came out, and the club was practically half my b-day party. I did have a great time with the small group I did go out with, however, as the 5 of us got fairly wild. Being over 21 is somewhat different than previous birthdays in that cake and pizza has turned into something entirely different. But this phase only lasts for a few more years, then you have to grow up, right? After Bourbon we went to a place in Dupont Ciricle, Lucky Bar. Lucky Bar is almost the fall back place if nothing else seems appealing. We did have a good time there, and it was totally worth it. Well, it was worth it until the next morning when I woke up and was useless for most of the day! I have to give myself credit, though, I did pull myself up for the run that cures all headaches!
Today, Sunday, one week from my return, I have found myself reflective. Maybe my reflection came on the 6 mile walk to the Zoo, or maybe it was on the walk back from the Zoo (quite the accomplishment really), but anyways, reflection did occur. I find that I get frustrated thinking about the future, but happy thinking about the past. This semester has been great minus the garbage housing we have. I have seen a historic inauguration of the first African-American President of the United States, I have walked the floor of the U.S. Capitol, and tomorrow I am going to the White House. I have made friends, worked full time, reunited with Rome-ers, and more. But, now 22, and without plan, or passion for anything in particular I find myself jealous of the kids headed off to med school, or to law school, or other such grad schools. Those who are student teaching, or moving around the country to follow their dreams. I just go blank thinking about the next move. After 16 years of school, what now? What has it all prepared me for? If you have any thoughts, please, email them to me and let me know. I know that tons of kids are in this exact same situation, and we all have to get through it, but, I don't want to settle at the same time that I don't want to make a wrong move. I don't want to miss out on an opportunity because I am law school when I shouldn't be, or otherwise not go to law school because I am working a minimum wage job flipping fries at McDonalds (not that that is a poor career decision).
Ok, enough for now, I have to go get some sleep for the Easter Egg Hunt with Barry tomorrow.
Andy
I thought I would have this grand posse (do people still say posse, or is it entourage now?) going out, making a big wild spectacle, and all of that. But, in reality, the way it worked out was probably more manageable.
The way it was planned was as follows. My friend James was in town visiting his sister, Elise, who is interning out here in DC as well, except she is really smart, and will have a real job in no time. She also did go to law school (which she strongly advised me against doing!) Anyways, my plans were to meet up with them that night for dinner, have my roommates and MSU friends come meet up with us after, and have a ridiculous night to (if all went well) not remember. I met James and Elise in a neighborhood with lots of unique restaurants and bars called Adams Morgan. This is the neighborhood you don't want to be caught alone in after 1 pm, but, you are generally safe! For dinner we went to a 5 story bar/saloon called Madam's Organ. I know, confusing right, eating at a place called Madam's Organ in Adams Morgan. Say that 3 times fast! Dinner was good, birthday cocktails much appreciated, and the night was shaping up well. After a few more cocktails, we moved on to a bar called Bourbon where we were meeting with Elise's roommate, and my friend Dennis from work (and supposedly my roommates and people from MSU). Well, Dennis came, and Elise's roommate Marie came, but no people from MSU. They were doing other things. It was nothing like the birthday last year in Roma, my 21st, in which everyone who I talked to at some point in Italy came out, and the club was practically half my b-day party. I did have a great time with the small group I did go out with, however, as the 5 of us got fairly wild. Being over 21 is somewhat different than previous birthdays in that cake and pizza has turned into something entirely different. But this phase only lasts for a few more years, then you have to grow up, right? After Bourbon we went to a place in Dupont Ciricle, Lucky Bar. Lucky Bar is almost the fall back place if nothing else seems appealing. We did have a good time there, and it was totally worth it. Well, it was worth it until the next morning when I woke up and was useless for most of the day! I have to give myself credit, though, I did pull myself up for the run that cures all headaches!
Today, Sunday, one week from my return, I have found myself reflective. Maybe my reflection came on the 6 mile walk to the Zoo, or maybe it was on the walk back from the Zoo (quite the accomplishment really), but anyways, reflection did occur. I find that I get frustrated thinking about the future, but happy thinking about the past. This semester has been great minus the garbage housing we have. I have seen a historic inauguration of the first African-American President of the United States, I have walked the floor of the U.S. Capitol, and tomorrow I am going to the White House. I have made friends, worked full time, reunited with Rome-ers, and more. But, now 22, and without plan, or passion for anything in particular I find myself jealous of the kids headed off to med school, or to law school, or other such grad schools. Those who are student teaching, or moving around the country to follow their dreams. I just go blank thinking about the next move. After 16 years of school, what now? What has it all prepared me for? If you have any thoughts, please, email them to me and let me know. I know that tons of kids are in this exact same situation, and we all have to get through it, but, I don't want to settle at the same time that I don't want to make a wrong move. I don't want to miss out on an opportunity because I am law school when I shouldn't be, or otherwise not go to law school because I am working a minimum wage job flipping fries at McDonalds (not that that is a poor career decision).
Ok, enough for now, I have to go get some sleep for the Easter Egg Hunt with Barry tomorrow.
Andy
Friday, April 10, 2009
The Happy Birthday Blog!
What very important religious/celebratory events are today?? Some of you might say passover. Some of you might say good friday. Some of you might even say opening day for the Tigers, and if there is a more important religious holiday, I am not sure of it. But, today is also the day I turn 21+1. Or, I guess 22.
This is the second consecutive birthday I have spent away from home in a trend that is becoming a little sad. Sure, I have friends here in DC, as I did in Roma last year, but my best friends and family are missing! But, today was such a great day in DC! SUnny! 70 degrees! Can you beat it?!
I went for my traditional birthday run, which isn't that much different than a regular run, except that it was my birthday.
I then decided I wanted to go to Georgetown to try and find Allen Iverson. Ok, maybe not, but I did go to G-town for lunch and walking around. It was surreal. It felt like it was vacation, except that I live here! Lunch (while attempting to keep the passover) was a grilled chicken and lime salad. It had some veggies in it too, so I was healthy! Then I walked at least 6 miles to get home, it was too nice to take the metro!
Tonight, well, who knows, it might get crazy. It's good friday, which I like to think is for my special day, right?
I will most certainly have a follow up post to this soon, this is just a preliminary rundown, to give you all a taste of the flavor that is my bday!
Andy
p.s. I respond to EVERY face book posting!
I went for my traditional birthday run, which isn't that much different than a regular run, except that it was my birthday.
I then decided I wanted to go to Georgetown to try and find Allen Iverson. Ok, maybe not, but I did go to G-town for lunch and walking around. It was surreal. It felt like it was vacation, except that I live here! Lunch (while attempting to keep the passover) was a grilled chicken and lime salad. It had some veggies in it too, so I was healthy! Then I walked at least 6 miles to get home, it was too nice to take the metro!
Tonight, well, who knows, it might get crazy. It's good friday, which I like to think is for my special day, right?
I will most certainly have a follow up post to this soon, this is just a preliminary rundown, to give you all a taste of the flavor that is my bday!
Andy
p.s. I respond to EVERY face book posting!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
I fly home to Detroit with hope, I return to DC with sadness...
It was on a complete whim that I decided to fly home last Friday, April 3, 2009. I wasn't going to spend the money, on a plane ticket, and then additionally on tickets to the final four, but, the more I sat in class on Thursday night (not focusing on class), the more I realized that I had to be back in Detroit. I needed to take a chance and see my team play. I may have only this one chance to go and see my Spartans play in a Final Four as an undergraduate student (which I am for only a few more weeks). So, I ran home (not literally) from the Fairchild Building, where class is held, and still dressed in my shirt and tie, booked a flight home for the next morning. You don't even want to know what I spent on it :(
Believe it or not, I didn't even fly out of Washington, because it was cheaper to fly out of Maryland. So, I woke up at 5 am, dressed in my pre-layed out clothes from just a few hours before (I didn't get to go to bed until 2 am), grabbed my pre-loaded backpack, and walked to Union Station, where I had to catch a train to Baltimore. I was pretty much operating on autopilot for the few hours in between waking up and getting to the airport in MD. I was excited about the upcoming weekend, and the unexpected trip home brought a sense of relief with it. As much fun as I am having in DC, old familiar Farmington Hills, my family, and being able to drive a car when I wanted was a welcome change. I didn't have much time for rest, however, as no sooner do I get picked up from the airport than I am whisked away to Ford Field for an open practice of the MSU basketball team. I should have mentioned this earlier, but, I didn't bring a coat home, because when I left DC early that Friday morning, it was already 60 degrees. I arrive in Detroit to cold and wind! Will you ever change, MI?!?! But, what am I supposed to do? I toughed it out, as best as I could. Shivering in between walking to and from the stadium, I eventually made it back home and grabbed a coat before we headed out again to Somerset Mall for a Pep Rally honoring the Spartans. It was a scene unlike anything I have seen in recent memory. The people were lining all three levels of the mall, and the fight song was being sung with spirit and many decibles. The team came out, players gave some short speeches, and Izzo was brought to tears. At that point it became more than a game, more than a final four. It became about seniors realizing there goals (thanks, Tom, for getting me my final four), a team playing for an entire states, and what can come of hard work and sacrafice. Since 2003, when Detroit was awarded the Final Four, Izzo had it circled on his calendard, and he delivered in a big way.
After the Pep Rally, we all went out for my pre-birthday, birthday dinner. Since I will not be in town this Friday, the 10th of April when I actually turn 22, we celebrated a little early. We went to my favorite restaurant, PF Changs, and I LOVED it! It was a great dinner with family, and although I was mad at my sister, and she knows why, I can't really find anything wrong with that night. I came back, I crashed in a snuggie (yes, a real snuggie), and ended what had been an exhausting, yet perfect day.
Now, did I get to sleep in Saturday morning? Did I get to relax, adjust? No, I was woken at 8 am (early when you haven't slept), and off to a haircut I went. I'll be honest, it had gotten somewhat unruly in DC. I don't trust anyone to cut the stuff besides the person I have been going to for years, so I just don't cut it while I am away! I didn't cut it once in my semester in Italy, and wasn't about to take a chance now! After getting cleaned up, I went to see Grammy, who promptly told me my hair (now washed and cut) looked greasy and bad. Oh, Grammy! Anyways, mom, her, and I went to lunch, they picked on me regarding crutons or something, and we had a nice time. I had trouble focusing though, it was time to prepare for the biggest game in my four years of college at MSU.
What was I expecting at Ford Field that night? Would the magical run continue? Would they get blown out? Would it be a close game? I didn't know, and I was scared. We arrived downtown 3+ hours early, to pick up our tickets, and had some time to kill before the 6:07 pm tip-off against the UCONN Huskies. I don't even remember exactly what we did for all that time. My mind was focused only on the game. It seemed like an eternity before it would start. I don't even remember much of what happened in the game (besides Hasheem Thabeet crying on the floor), but somehow, someway, the Spartans defeated their second #1 seed, and advanced to the National Title Game! The feeling I had ALMOST made up for the hundreds of dollars I spent to get there! Just kidding, it totally made up for the money, which I didn't even care about at that point. What once seemed unlikely was beginning to seem like a destiny! After the MSU game, UNC destroyed Villanova in what was never really a close game, setting up a matchup of MSU v. UNC for the National Championship on Monday night.
Sunday, I made a surprise trip to Easy Lansing, popping in randomly on friends who I hadn't seen in quite some time. I started at Hillel, walking in casually to my Israeli trip friends, who jumped up and greeted me. I then walked into Jeff's house, again casually, to a great reception. I then made my way to see my old roommate, and good friend Chelsea, again, as a surprise (and was greeted with screams and smiles). It was a crazy day, but it was great to see all of them again, although it was very brief. I told them all that when I return in a few weeks, there will be a reunion to top all reunions! That is, if they still miss me at that point ;)
I came home with the idea of getting some work done, and well, SOME being the operative word, got done, but not much. I really did not have time to do what I needed to do, but I'll get it done at some point. I always do.
Monday night, well, it started with excitement, and ended (within the first 7 minutes of the game) with sadness. It became apparent from the very first moments up the game that it would not go well. UNC tripled our score at 33-11 within the firsit 1o minutes, set a record for points in an NCAA Finals Game with 55, and shot over 60% much of the first half. MSU had 14 first half turnovers, looked the like crowd of 90% MSU supporters scared them more than helped them, and played some bad basketball. Maybe UNC was just that good, maybe we were overachieving up until that point, but you can't take anything away from this team. Playing for the State of Michigan, they did a great job, and although they didn't win the game, their champion status is undeniable. I never thought they would lose that game, though. Maybe I didn't want to believe how good UNC was (because I hate Hansbrough), or I thought MSU was better, but things didn't work out. If MSU had won, I would have won my office pool, and recouped the money I spent on being here, but, it was not why I came back. I came back because I am a Spartan, and I had to be there for my team, win or lose. Great Season Tom and the Boys!
Ok, I think that is all for now. The coming days will be filled with many papers to be written, projects to present, birthdays to have, and work to do. My mini-vacation has been great, but now it's back to DC. My flight leaves at 3:30 pm.
Now, one last time as an undergrad...
GO GREEN! GO WHITE!
Andy
Believe it or not, I didn't even fly out of Washington, because it was cheaper to fly out of Maryland. So, I woke up at 5 am, dressed in my pre-layed out clothes from just a few hours before (I didn't get to go to bed until 2 am), grabbed my pre-loaded backpack, and walked to Union Station, where I had to catch a train to Baltimore. I was pretty much operating on autopilot for the few hours in between waking up and getting to the airport in MD. I was excited about the upcoming weekend, and the unexpected trip home brought a sense of relief with it. As much fun as I am having in DC, old familiar Farmington Hills, my family, and being able to drive a car when I wanted was a welcome change. I didn't have much time for rest, however, as no sooner do I get picked up from the airport than I am whisked away to Ford Field for an open practice of the MSU basketball team. I should have mentioned this earlier, but, I didn't bring a coat home, because when I left DC early that Friday morning, it was already 60 degrees. I arrive in Detroit to cold and wind! Will you ever change, MI?!?! But, what am I supposed to do? I toughed it out, as best as I could. Shivering in between walking to and from the stadium, I eventually made it back home and grabbed a coat before we headed out again to Somerset Mall for a Pep Rally honoring the Spartans. It was a scene unlike anything I have seen in recent memory. The people were lining all three levels of the mall, and the fight song was being sung with spirit and many decibles. The team came out, players gave some short speeches, and Izzo was brought to tears. At that point it became more than a game, more than a final four. It became about seniors realizing there goals (thanks, Tom, for getting me my final four), a team playing for an entire states, and what can come of hard work and sacrafice. Since 2003, when Detroit was awarded the Final Four, Izzo had it circled on his calendard, and he delivered in a big way.
After the Pep Rally, we all went out for my pre-birthday, birthday dinner. Since I will not be in town this Friday, the 10th of April when I actually turn 22, we celebrated a little early. We went to my favorite restaurant, PF Changs, and I LOVED it! It was a great dinner with family, and although I was mad at my sister, and she knows why, I can't really find anything wrong with that night. I came back, I crashed in a snuggie (yes, a real snuggie), and ended what had been an exhausting, yet perfect day.
Now, did I get to sleep in Saturday morning? Did I get to relax, adjust? No, I was woken at 8 am (early when you haven't slept), and off to a haircut I went. I'll be honest, it had gotten somewhat unruly in DC. I don't trust anyone to cut the stuff besides the person I have been going to for years, so I just don't cut it while I am away! I didn't cut it once in my semester in Italy, and wasn't about to take a chance now! After getting cleaned up, I went to see Grammy, who promptly told me my hair (now washed and cut) looked greasy and bad. Oh, Grammy! Anyways, mom, her, and I went to lunch, they picked on me regarding crutons or something, and we had a nice time. I had trouble focusing though, it was time to prepare for the biggest game in my four years of college at MSU.
What was I expecting at Ford Field that night? Would the magical run continue? Would they get blown out? Would it be a close game? I didn't know, and I was scared. We arrived downtown 3+ hours early, to pick up our tickets, and had some time to kill before the 6:07 pm tip-off against the UCONN Huskies. I don't even remember exactly what we did for all that time. My mind was focused only on the game. It seemed like an eternity before it would start. I don't even remember much of what happened in the game (besides Hasheem Thabeet crying on the floor), but somehow, someway, the Spartans defeated their second #1 seed, and advanced to the National Title Game! The feeling I had ALMOST made up for the hundreds of dollars I spent to get there! Just kidding, it totally made up for the money, which I didn't even care about at that point. What once seemed unlikely was beginning to seem like a destiny! After the MSU game, UNC destroyed Villanova in what was never really a close game, setting up a matchup of MSU v. UNC for the National Championship on Monday night.
Sunday, I made a surprise trip to Easy Lansing, popping in randomly on friends who I hadn't seen in quite some time. I started at Hillel, walking in casually to my Israeli trip friends, who jumped up and greeted me. I then walked into Jeff's house, again casually, to a great reception. I then made my way to see my old roommate, and good friend Chelsea, again, as a surprise (and was greeted with screams and smiles). It was a crazy day, but it was great to see all of them again, although it was very brief. I told them all that when I return in a few weeks, there will be a reunion to top all reunions! That is, if they still miss me at that point ;)
I came home with the idea of getting some work done, and well, SOME being the operative word, got done, but not much. I really did not have time to do what I needed to do, but I'll get it done at some point. I always do.
Monday night, well, it started with excitement, and ended (within the first 7 minutes of the game) with sadness. It became apparent from the very first moments up the game that it would not go well. UNC tripled our score at 33-11 within the firsit 1o minutes, set a record for points in an NCAA Finals Game with 55, and shot over 60% much of the first half. MSU had 14 first half turnovers, looked the like crowd of 90% MSU supporters scared them more than helped them, and played some bad basketball. Maybe UNC was just that good, maybe we were overachieving up until that point, but you can't take anything away from this team. Playing for the State of Michigan, they did a great job, and although they didn't win the game, their champion status is undeniable. I never thought they would lose that game, though. Maybe I didn't want to believe how good UNC was (because I hate Hansbrough), or I thought MSU was better, but things didn't work out. If MSU had won, I would have won my office pool, and recouped the money I spent on being here, but, it was not why I came back. I came back because I am a Spartan, and I had to be there for my team, win or lose. Great Season Tom and the Boys!
Ok, I think that is all for now. The coming days will be filled with many papers to be written, projects to present, birthdays to have, and work to do. My mini-vacation has been great, but now it's back to DC. My flight leaves at 3:30 pm.
Now, one last time as an undergrad...
GO GREEN! GO WHITE!
Andy
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
So much has happened, I don't even know what to title this monster blog!!!
Where do I start. Since the last post, many days ago, TONS has happened! Well, OK, not tons, but enough has happened that this will be the blog posting of much excitement. I don't know how much I will be able to fit in, because, well, I'm on borrowed computer time, but, I'll try and get as much in as I can.
From the last posting, I forgot to add a few things. On last Friday, we were treated to something few Americans ever get to do. The House Sergeant at Arms, Bill Livingood, is a Michigan State Alum. Part of his job, besides introducing the President to Congress (HOW COOL!?) is entertaining the likes of us, students from his school, as we live and work in Washington, DC. We received a tour of his office in the Capitol, complete with the MACE, the staff which much be present in order for the House to conduct business, and the actual flag that was flown on the moon, ya know, the one Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong put there!!? I feel bad for the guy who had to fly the ship, what was his name...Collins?? Anyways, besides the ridiculousness of treasures in his office, we were then given a tour of the rest of the Capitol...from the crypts to the rotunda. It is a beautiful building, and well, I can't even begin to tell you how special it was to be there. It was then, that we were able to do something quite unique. Besides politicians and well, security, very few people are allowed on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. We were fortunate to be of these select few. I walked down the very aisle that President Obama walked down to deliver his very first speech to the Joint Session of Congress. The room itself is much smaller than I would have thought, which leads me to think, how do they fit all of those people in there! Our tour guide, Mr. Livingood asked if anyone noticed the cameras on the balcony, and what they were there for. Obviously I knew, the SPAN! He then proceeded to tell us they were the SPAN's, and asked if anyone watched the SPAN, and I had to mention that I worked there...then, he asked if I knew the founder, to which I replied, "Brian, of course!" I still have to say hello for Bill!
Friday afternoon, I paid the ridiculous $18 to go to the Newseum. I would say it was worth it though, I spent 3.5 hours there, and really learned a lot. THe museum made a showcase of the sensational aspects of print news. It's sort of sad to think that the newspaper business is going under. I guess what I am doing now, blogging, is partially leading to the downfall. Today was the first day in the Detroit Free Press's history that they did not deliver on a tuesday. I also learned one very impressive fact. The Unabomber, Ted "I was a wolverine and proud of it!" K also hated the little rodents so much he bombed the campus in 1985! What an alum! An alum from MSU announces the president, an alum from U of M blows up his school. Champions of the west they are not!
Saturday, well, I'm not sure how much I have updated so far. I went to the Pistons v. Wizards game, but I may have already mentioned that. Other than that, saturday was fairly lazy, consisting of the game, and a few drinks after that. Sunday is where we start getting crazy.
Sunday morning, I was treated to a great brunch by my cousin Jeff and his wife Michelle. In town for a wedding, and thinking of me and my lack of adequate eating, we got together down in Foggy Bottom at a restaurant called 'the blue penguin.' I got Belgian Waffles with Pecans, amazing, and some OJ. We also shared an apple pie with a crust that tasted amazing, and the flakes that fell to the plate were covered in carmel glaze and sugar...ah! It was really nice to catch up with them and talk about all things and going ons back in MI. I promise, we will all do a dinner when I get back in town!
After brunch, well, it was time for some ball. THe Spartans were facing the number one team overall in the entire tournament, the Louisville Cardinals. Since this blog is old, and by now we all know what happened, let me just say that I have to be there if the make it to the finals. I tried desperately to get the student tickets yesterday, but to know avail. It was very frustrating, as the site never worked, the server apparently crashed repeatedly, and I didn't get the tickets. I have made a deal, however, that if we make the finals, I will do whatever I can, within reason (and price) to get back home. It's going to be great watching the game at the MSU bar here in DC anyways, surrounded by supporters and people I have recruited to be supporters. LET'S GO GREEN! Tom got me my final four!!!!!!!!!
Ok, my computer time is over, more to come in a few days!
Work is going well, but still no jobs. Time is running out like whoa.
Go Green!
Andy
From the last posting, I forgot to add a few things. On last Friday, we were treated to something few Americans ever get to do. The House Sergeant at Arms, Bill Livingood, is a Michigan State Alum. Part of his job, besides introducing the President to Congress (HOW COOL!?) is entertaining the likes of us, students from his school, as we live and work in Washington, DC. We received a tour of his office in the Capitol, complete with the MACE, the staff which much be present in order for the House to conduct business, and the actual flag that was flown on the moon, ya know, the one Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong put there!!? I feel bad for the guy who had to fly the ship, what was his name...Collins?? Anyways, besides the ridiculousness of treasures in his office, we were then given a tour of the rest of the Capitol...from the crypts to the rotunda. It is a beautiful building, and well, I can't even begin to tell you how special it was to be there. It was then, that we were able to do something quite unique. Besides politicians and well, security, very few people are allowed on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. We were fortunate to be of these select few. I walked down the very aisle that President Obama walked down to deliver his very first speech to the Joint Session of Congress. The room itself is much smaller than I would have thought, which leads me to think, how do they fit all of those people in there! Our tour guide, Mr. Livingood asked if anyone noticed the cameras on the balcony, and what they were there for. Obviously I knew, the SPAN! He then proceeded to tell us they were the SPAN's, and asked if anyone watched the SPAN, and I had to mention that I worked there...then, he asked if I knew the founder, to which I replied, "Brian, of course!" I still have to say hello for Bill!
Friday afternoon, I paid the ridiculous $18 to go to the Newseum. I would say it was worth it though, I spent 3.5 hours there, and really learned a lot. THe museum made a showcase of the sensational aspects of print news. It's sort of sad to think that the newspaper business is going under. I guess what I am doing now, blogging, is partially leading to the downfall. Today was the first day in the Detroit Free Press's history that they did not deliver on a tuesday. I also learned one very impressive fact. The Unabomber, Ted "I was a wolverine and proud of it!" K also hated the little rodents so much he bombed the campus in 1985! What an alum! An alum from MSU announces the president, an alum from U of M blows up his school. Champions of the west they are not!
Saturday, well, I'm not sure how much I have updated so far. I went to the Pistons v. Wizards game, but I may have already mentioned that. Other than that, saturday was fairly lazy, consisting of the game, and a few drinks after that. Sunday is where we start getting crazy.
Sunday morning, I was treated to a great brunch by my cousin Jeff and his wife Michelle. In town for a wedding, and thinking of me and my lack of adequate eating, we got together down in Foggy Bottom at a restaurant called 'the blue penguin.' I got Belgian Waffles with Pecans, amazing, and some OJ. We also shared an apple pie with a crust that tasted amazing, and the flakes that fell to the plate were covered in carmel glaze and sugar...ah! It was really nice to catch up with them and talk about all things and going ons back in MI. I promise, we will all do a dinner when I get back in town!
After brunch, well, it was time for some ball. THe Spartans were facing the number one team overall in the entire tournament, the Louisville Cardinals. Since this blog is old, and by now we all know what happened, let me just say that I have to be there if the make it to the finals. I tried desperately to get the student tickets yesterday, but to know avail. It was very frustrating, as the site never worked, the server apparently crashed repeatedly, and I didn't get the tickets. I have made a deal, however, that if we make the finals, I will do whatever I can, within reason (and price) to get back home. It's going to be great watching the game at the MSU bar here in DC anyways, surrounded by supporters and people I have recruited to be supporters. LET'S GO GREEN! Tom got me my final four!!!!!!!!!
Ok, my computer time is over, more to come in a few days!
Work is going well, but still no jobs. Time is running out like whoa.
Go Green!
Andy
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Elite 8!
I want to congratulate all Spartans on this Saturday morning. We all live to fight another day, and collectively, I think we can get the Spartans on to the next round. I do have to give some credit to a player, however, who I repeatedly have ridiculed for the last 4 seasons. Travis "I'm sorry, I left my offense at home, coach" Walton, has really stepped up and provided that leadership that this team has lacked at time. I thought, perhaps, it might be Raymar, but, he of the 4 point 1 rebound game did little to raise my confidence in him. Kalin played like the Big Ten player of the year, Goran "European Flavor" Suton nearly had another double-double, Chris "I'm finding my shot" Allen played decent, and Durrell "It's SUMMERS time in Northern Michigan" Summers played key minutes. On the other hand, Marquise "How was I ever a 5 star recruit" Gray had no points, Idong "I wave my arms and hope they block a shot" Ibok, and the rest of the team need to increase their level of play. T.Walt is not the only 4 year senior here at Michigan State that hasn't yet made it to a final four. I HAVEN'T EITHER!!!!
Moving on, tonight I am attending the Pistons/Wizards game down at the Verizon Center in Chinatown. First, I have to get my tickets from the will call window (stupid ticketmaster even charged me a convenience fee to pick them up there, what?!), and then head up to the tops of the arena where my bad seats away. But, it is a matchup of two bad teams...Maybe Stuck will go for 50. Before I do that this afternoon, however, I am meeting with a legislative assistant for a Senator from Michigan. Basically, my game plan is to ask some questions, see what she can tell me about her job, her responsibilities, and other such things in my attempt not to go to law school.
The Cherry Blossom festival is in full swing. Well, the rain and cold is dampening that just a little bit, but, they are still blossoming. I have a project that I have to do, several papers to write, and other such fun school related things. I don't even know what to do right now. It continues to be even harder with 3 roommates, bunk beds, and no space to even think. Again, it's hard without a computer. Things are pretty messed up with it. 3 more weeks until the future comes crashing down on me.
I am ready to be out of this apartment. I really do not like it, and after a few months, am excited at the prospect of having living space again. Even if I find a way to stay out here, I want my own place. Sure I can't afford my own place, and am not sure if I want to have a 'real' job right now, but we will see what happens.
Tomorrow morning, Cousin Jeff and Michelle and I are going out to brunch here in DC. They are in town for a wedding, and we are getting together before they leave town. I haven't seen them in a while, and it's always nice to see familiar faces.
Anyways, I feel like I am getting sick, I run in the cold rain.
It's my birthday, start thinking of ideas!
Andy
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