Thursday, March 27, 2008

Slow Down

Why is it that everybody is in such a hurry? Granted, Blacksburg isn't nearly as bad as Northern Virginia but still. I am of the opinion that taking five extra minutes to get somewhere is not a big deal and usually of no real consequence. So, sometimes I think people need to learn a lesson. Case and point:
About a month ago I'd say, I was walking and reached the four-way stop of Kent Street and Washington Street. Even though the pedestrian always has the right of way, I stopped and waited my turn to cross the street just as a car would wait its turn at a four-way stop. So, it's my turn and I begin to walk across the street. From my left I hear a loud revving of an engine and see this car speeding at me and he slams on his brakes at the last second to avoid hitting me. Whew. So, at this point I'm pretty happy Mr. Mustang doesn't kill me.
But, here's the thing. Instead of just being polite and letting me finish crossing at my ease, he revs his engine and is cursing in a maelstrom of rage. Now, the next part is really against my character but something made me do this and I don't know what. I get down on one knee, untie my shoe and then proceed to retie at a snail's pace in the middle of the crosswalk so he can't go yet. I finish tying, slowly stand up, and complete the cross. When he finally gets a gap to drive through he lets out another rev of his engine, as if he were broadcasting his manliness to the world, and sped off.
Now, am I proud of this? No. Did he deserve it? Probably. Would I do it again if I had the chance? Maybe. The point is patience is a valued virtue. Get some.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

The Beginning

It has begun. Tour de Blacksburg is underway. Well, what is Tour de Blacksburg? On its most chief level, it is an attempt to explore the many beautiful places of Blacksburg in all their glory. No, I'm not going to the beautiful mountains or rivers for this. I am simply going to live life out of the bag and live with new friends every couple of days for a while. I will get to experience the living situations of others and enjoy the company of many different people along this maiden voyage.
Currently, I am sitting in Panera waiting for my car's oil change to be done. The man at the front desk misheard me and thought I said my name was Heather and kept calling me Heather which was kind of amusing. But this really has nothing to do with anything.
CURRENTLY, I am staying with the Men of Oak Manor. They were the first hosts gracious enough to put me up. It is an all-star cast over there (as to be expected). You have the likes of Nate Badwoman, Mike's Reid, Bike Mitton, Jacque, Caleb, and Kyle. Last night, I played Britton in a game of NCAA Football '08. I was the West Virginia Mountaineers and he was the Arkansas Razorbacks. I got a couple lucky breaks and came out with a decisive 20-7 victory. No big deal.
Their couch is quite accommodating as it provides a perfect length for a 5 foot 11" man. It also provides just enough cushion so that you feel comfortable but not sinking by any means. I have had to take the bus to class which is new for me but not a problem nonetheless.
Other amenities include a hookah, good water pressure in the shower, Tiger Woods golf on Wii, a bowling alley in their basement, and an Olympic size swimming pool in their basement as well. I have been there three days already and it has been nothing short of brilliant.
The OMG (O My Gaaaaa Girls) are neighbors too and provide good hospitality when needed. They have great internet, printers ice cream. Besides Klipboard's sneeky drug dealing, it is a great environment to be in.
One last thing I think worth noting is the obvious vacancy of my room back at Apartment N. It is up for rent for anyone interested. It will be $29.99 per night plus tax. It includes a spacious room with a spacious queen-size bed. Additionally, my Indian servant Swift will take care of you. He will do your laundry, change the sheets, bring you breakfast in bed, and perform many of the other various needs you may have during your stay.
I will provide another update in due time. Payce.