Shedd Speak

December 31, 2009

How will you say 2010?

Ok, so I’m taking a brief break from my China stories to wish everyone a happy and healthy 2010!

Another year has quickly passed us by…again. Each year I comment on how quickly time flies, and even though it’s lame, I feel like I should say it again…because it has! Don’t deny it.

I mean, who can believe that it’s been two years since I gave up Diet Coke? Seriously, I haven’t had the stuff since 2007…with one exception. A waitress brought me diet coke by mistake and I took a sip. The mistake was quickly recognized and corrected. Last year, I committed to reading through the Bible in a year. That didn’t quite happen. I started off strong, but faded. But never fear, I can re-resolve to read it in a year, right?

And, that won’t be my only resolution. No, no. I actually have a lot of things I’d like to accomplish. First of all, I would like to pay off one of my two college loans early. I’m not scheduled to finish with one until the end of 2011. But, I think I can do it.

I would also like to make additional improvements to my house. This past year, I (and with the help – a lot of help – of others) replaced the flooring on the first floor. We also painted the kitchen and cabinets. I had a contractor replace the counter top and the kitchen sink. It looks fabulous. Next year, I’d like to focus on the outside. It’s in sorry shape. A couple of Septembers ago I pulled up landscaping and never really did anything with it. So, maybe I’ll plant some flowers. I really need to replace my fence, too.

I would also like to commit to reading more in general. I got a Kindle for Christmas…so this should be doable.

Let’s see…what else? Oh yes, remember that Diet Coke blunder mentioned above? Well, ever since I went to China, I have been drinking regular Coke! I know, I know. Regular Coke is horrible for me…just like diet drinks. So, no more Coke in 2010.

And speaking of 2010, just a quick question. How do you plan on saying 2010? Will you say two thousand and ten? Or will you opt for twenty-ten? I’m opting for the latter, simply because I think it’s easier to say. Ok, and I think it makes me sound hip.

No? Anyway…

Happy New Year! Be safe!!

Leave a Comment

Filed under Personal

Tags: new years resolution

December 12, 2009

China Part Two: I’m a Tourist…at the Forbidden City!

During our visit to Beijing, we had the chance to visit the Forbidden City. The palace was home to Chinese emperors for around five hundred years or so. It was amazing to think these wooden buildings have been standing since the early 1400’s! It’s currently under construction in part and is being restored to its pre-1912 state, which is when the outer courts were open for public use (or so I read). The inner court is where the emperor lived. Anyway, the parts already restored, are simply beautiful. The architectural detailing was pretty incredible. My pictures do not do it justice.

We entered the city by way of Tiananmen Square. This is the largest city square in the world. And I can attest, yes it’s big. My brother told me it’s also one of the safest areas. There are tons of police there. Some are in uniform, while others are in street clothes.

You’ll notice in the pictures, it was a little rainy. But, that didn’t keep us tourists away! The line to see Mao Zedong’s tomb was insane. We opted not to view.

I was also approached by a Chinese “student”. Apparently, if you look like a tourist (as most Americans do), you’re prime pickings for scams. Oh, and if you tell them you’re from Kentucky, you’ll immediately be associated with Kentucky Fried Chicken. Anyway, we were asked countless times to go with these “students” into rooms to look at artwork. My brother warned me to stay away. I got good at saying no and walking on.

One of my favorite sites, was the basketball court placed in the middle of the city. It was so out of place, but the contrast with the ancient Chinese architecture was really cool. I’m told it’s for soldiers…when they aren’t guarding the palace.

I was amazed by how big the palace was. We didn’t even tour several sections (didn’t want to pay, haha). It has something like 9,999 rooms. They say you should allow three hours for an adequate visit. I’m not sure how long we were there, but we were able to cover a lot of ground. If I have the chance to go again, I think I might want to visit some of the Inner Court rooms, like the Treasure Gallery. And not just because I like treasure. I’ve read that it’s really beautiful and I’d love to see some of the artifacts they have on exhibit. So, until next time…

Up next, I’ll share pictures of our visit to the Olympic sites and to the Temple of Heaven! Stay tuned.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Personal, Travels

Tags: china, the forbidden city

December 8, 2009

China Part Two: I’m a Tourist…at The Great Wall!

So, while I was in China, I had the chance to do some touristy things. We went to the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the market place…among others.

I’ll start with The Great Wall. First off, it was beautiful. My brother and I decided to hike the stairs, which meant we would be climbing a couple of hours or so. And even though it was like 90 something degrees and full sun, it was a chance to see something really special. Thus, our journey began.

Overall, the Wall is in very good shape. Most of what we saw had been restored. However, parts of it had not been restored as recently. Some of the erosion required us to hold on to handles that had been added. I can’t imagine what it had been like to run along those steps without falling.

As I mentioned, it was very hot, but we did find relief in the towers. Those stay cool and small windows create a bit of a breeze. You can even climb up really steep, slightly worn out stairs in the towers to look out the top. Or you can sit on them for picture ops:

My brother and I were able to conquer the stairs and the heat in a little over an hour. The next day, my muscles and sun-burnt neck conquered me. I’m just glad we had water with us…

All in all it was a great experience (well, except for the human pile of poop we found in one of the towers). I would do it again…

2 Comments

Filed under Personal, Travels

Tags: china, The Great Wall

December 4, 2009

China: Part One – Day One

So, five months after my China trip, I’ve decided to blog. Now as I said in my previous post, the entire time I was there, I made notes about things that I’d like to write about. Unfortunately, I just haven’t had the time to sit down and type. What have I been doing all these months? Well, we’ll save that for another post.

My China trip began on Thursday, July 2. My mom and I hopped on a 6:30 AM flight to Newark, New Jersey. We were on a very small plane (Continental Express), seated in the back…by the bathroom. That was the only down-side. Cause let’s just say the early morning flight didn’t seem to interrupt the daily routine of the men on the plane, if you know what I mean.

Anyway, after arriving in Newark, we changed planes and headed to China. Of course, it didn’t happen all that quickly. We had a 3.5 hour layover. So twenty-one hours (or so) after leaving Louisville, we were walking off the plane in Beijing (well, after their health department people took our temperatures to make sure none of us had the Swine flu). Oh and I should mention that we were fully fed on the plane. I was surprisingly pleased with a) the number of times we were fed and b) the quality of the food. It was actually pretty tasty!

It was intimidating to walk through the airport of a non-English speaking country. But, at least I had a travel buddy!

We made it through immigration and customs with ease and were greeted by two beautiful red-headed girls. Oh and my brother and sister-in-law were there, too.

After we said our hellos, exchanged some currency, watched Ella be mobbed by Chinese girls wanting to have their picture taken with her, we decided a coffee break was necessary. So, we stopped in Starbucks…

Then after caffeinating ourselves, we left Beijing and headed for Tianjin. Tianjin is about two hours away from Beijing. It was during that two hour drive that I was immediately educated on Chinese driving. Horns are used quite frequently to alert folks that you’re coming. And lanes are pretty much irrelevant. I’m just glad I didn’t have to drive anywhere.

Once we got to Ty Kat’s apartment, I toured and laid down for a nap. I may have napped before I did anything else. I can’t remember. I was tired. It was during my nap that I discovered central air conditioning was an American commodity. Apparently, people who use their ac are considered irresponsible spenders. I just don’t like sweating. And my hair certainly doesn’t like frizzing. But that’s just me.

After my nap, well after my sister-in-law woke me up, we ate some dinner. The food in China is almost nothing like American Chinese. Their meat quality is much better, and the flavor is much stronger. And, it’s not as salty! I could also eat my rice with chop sticks cause it was sticky…which was great, since I didn’t have a fork. Oh and the food is insanely cheap!

All in all, it was a good day. It was really more like two days. But, I never lost the sun…so it seemed like one day. Up next I’ll share about the more touristy things we did. Until then…

Leave a Comment

Filed under Personal, Travels

Tags: trip to China

August 27, 2009

China Series Intro

Greetings blog-reading fans (…ok, family). Many of you know this past July I visited China. While I was there I took lots of pictures and even jotted down some notes to blog about. So, over the next few weeks, I will be sharing some of my China moments with you.

Consider this your thirty-second intro…

3 Comments

Filed under Personal

Tags: china, vacation

August 20, 2009

Oh Brett.

So, instead of posting something interesting, I decided to change my blog theme. I haven’t decided if it’s too girly. Only time will tell.

Speaking of girly, let’s talk football. Specifically, let’s talk about Mr. Brett Favre. If you recall (I assume you don’t), I posted about Brett’s first fake retirement a couple of seasons ago. I was saddened to hear he would no longer be a Green Bay Packer. And that’s saying a lot, as a die-hard Chicago Bears fan. It was like my childhood was coming to an end. Just as I was coming to terms with my grief…the iconic cheese head decided to unretire, move to New York and become a Jet. It was shocking!

Nevertheless, he unretired and played for a year. His year started off ok, but then went drastically down hill toward the end. I think his final professional play was interception. We all knew his unretirement had been a mistake…I did, anyway.

I was relieved when I heard Brett wouldn’t be returning this year. He was officially retired. Even he said he wouldn’t be 100% if he returned. Finally logic proceeded love of the game.

…or did it…

Just a few days ago we discovered Mr. Favre had unretired YET AGAIN, and signed with the Minnesota Vikings. TREASON!! I almost feel sorry for Packers fans out there. Almost.

Anyway, I can’t say I blame Favre for selling his soul. He has signed a two-year, $25 million deal that places him in charge of a top-contending team. Not to mention, he’ll be playing a lot of his games in the comfort of a dome this season and next. He may even finish with a ring on his finger.

NOTE: I, of course, hope the Bears crush the Vikings (specifically Brett) in, say, a conference championship.

On the other hand, maybe jewelry isn’t important to Brett. In fact, who knows, maybe Favre will keep on playing as long as teams hire him. All I know is I can’t keep posting about his retirement…or unretirement.

3 Comments

Filed under Personal

Tags: brett favre, unretirement

August 4, 2009

Holy buckets of water, Batman!

I understand it’s been a hundred years since I last updated my blog. I’m sorry. It’s not that I haven’t wanted to blog. I’ve just been too busy! However, this morning’s storms inspired me…

Lately, I’ve been carpooling to work. It’s not because I’m green. Well, I believe in stewardship. But, I confess my primary motivation was to save money…not the planet. Anyway, as I left this morning, I noticed there seemed to be fairly low clouds in the sky. There was also a lot of lightning. But, no rain.

Well, in a matter of minutes, the sky went from being partly cloudy, to slightly green, to completely dark. It was creepy. The lightning stepped up its game and then it started to pour! The rain and hail was so bad, we could hardly see. As we drove in on the interstate, we saw signs that said we were downtown, but the visibility was so bad, we couldn’t see a single building!

We sat out in front of my building for fifteen minutes waiting for the rain to lessen. It didn’t. An ambulance pulled up behind us, so we had to move. We drove around to the other side of the block and got as close to the parking garage as possible and I had to make a run for it. It only took five unprotected steps to be absolutely soaked.

I can’t imagine the condition I’d be in if I was still parking four blocks away. No umbrella could have kept me dry!

I found some pictures online of this morning’s storm. Here’s a sampling…

: Storm Clouds

: High Water Downtown

: I65 was closed because of flooding!

: Looking at the frontline (from the Aegon building)

: That’s a lot of water!

: SUVs are unstoppable! Right.

The sheer amount of rain was unbelievable!! When lightning flashed, the sky lit up as though someone was turning a light switch on and off. And the thunder! Boy, it was loud!! Storms are always a good reminder of how small we are. When God uses nature to force us to pause, all we can do is obey. If we try to fight it, we end up getting stranded in high water, I suppose. Hmm.

…there’s a lesson in there somewhere!

1 Comment

Filed under Personal

June 9, 2009

Wow, so it’s June!

I realized the other day that I hadn’t blogged in quite some time. Quite frankly, I just haven’t had the time. Nor, had I anything intersting to say. The latter might still apply. Shhh.

So, where does my time go? Well, I spend most of my days at work. I’m still enjoying my time at Frost Brown Todd. After hours, I spend two nights a week playing softball. I had the opportunity to play four nights a week, but thought that that was a bit excessive.

I have also been attending an unusual amount of concerts. It’s been great! Two weekends ago I attended a Kenny Chesney concert, which included other notable bands (Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, Montgomery Gentry and Sugarland). It was amazing!

Kenny Chesney Concert

Last weekend I attended a Taylor Swift/Keith Urban concert up in Cincinnati. Got to say, Taylor’s crowd was a little too young and skreetchy for me, but I enjoy her music. On the other hand, Keith Urban is amazing in every way. Up next, Kelly Clarkson and Gavin Degraw. That’s not until August.

Taylor Swift Keith Urban

I have some more great pics. I’ll share soon.

I have also expanded my interests to include ATVing. I’ll be going camping/off-roading in a couple of weeks with a large group of peeps. Should be fun, provided I don’t kill myself. Don’t worry Mom, I have protective gear!

ATV fun

Other summer plans include a trip to China and working on my house. Both equally exciting…to me. I anticipate having some amazing pictures to post for both events. Ha!

…until then…

1 Comment

Filed under Personal

March 16, 2009

It’s been a month since my last confession

It just occurred to me today that I hadn’t blogged in quite some time! I’m not really sure why. But, that’s neither here nor there.

Lots of things have happened since we last spoke. First on my list…my car. The Volkswagen Passat is no more. It was a great car, but it was approaching 100k. So, it was time for something new. I traded it in for a 2006 Honda Civic…and I must say, the gas mileage is great!! And, and I stayed right on budget. It was a good day.

More recently, I made an addition to the family. My roommate and I decided to rescue a dog. His name is Indy. He’s a medium sized dog with lots of energy. Not really sure on his breed (or mix of). He’s allegedly a Shepard mix. We were told he was 8 months old. But we later found out from the vet that he was more like two years old. So, training is taking a little longer that what we had hoped for. But, that’s ok. It will just take some patience. Here’s a picture of him…

He's lounging on the deck.

We have been on a few runs already. He does ok, but we’re working on his endurance. Haha! He spends too much energy trying to chase after birds and rabbits. I’m hoping the more we go, the more focused he will be. I’ll keep you posted.

That’s the latest in my world. Thanks and have a nice day.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Personal

Tags: Indy

February 9, 2009

Winter Storm in Kentucky

Thought I’d share a few pictures from our most recent winter storm. We still have a few snow piles around town. But, today’s 68 degree weather will surely take care of the remaining ice chunks. Hooray!