The next several days in DC consisted of long days at the conference. I presented my opinions about a paper I had previously reviewed that was being presented in the conference on Monday. It was nerve racking as usual, and as usual, I didn't explain my points as thouroughly as I could have. Not having practiced always make me rush. Oh well. According to my adviser, Vijay, it was fine.
I met some new people at the conference from seeveral different universities around the states. These conferences are a huge opportunity to network, and boy I really tried to make the best of it. We (Ulku and I) attended lots of sessions for the next few days, and Vijay and I did some souvineir shopping together.
On our last day, Ulku and I toured two Smithsonians, the Natural History musuem and the national air and space museum. Both of these places were great, but we realize now we could have spent a full week just trying to get through all the smithsonians. It is really a Mecca of museums and all located within walking distance from each other.
I have alot of pictures from this trip, I will see what I can do about posting some of the pictures so you all can see. If anyone knows an easy way to do this using Blogger let me know.
Okay, so we return from Washington and the Christmas insanity insues. I think of counted a total of 7 Christmas celebrations this year, which I think is a record for me. I have to admit, I really enjoyed the holidays this year. I spent alot of time with Ed's family this year, and he spent more time with mine. We were truly in the holiday spirit.
Jay came in to town shortly before Christmas and we spent alot of time together this trip which was fun. I mean, we can't seem to get enough of each other, first DC now Dallas. Its always nice when he is around.
New Years was a blast. We went to Nada's and played DDR for hours. We are such dorks, we had a bracketed competition, and Jay won. I'll have you know I was in the running for the title, but Jay skunked it away from me. I will say that I think I have more style, but he is better at pushing buttons (take that as you will).
I'm learning German these days. I picked up Pimsleur's CD's as a Christmas present from Mom and Michael. I have quite a few friends who speak, and figured I might actually be able to practice it. So far its lots of fun. I can say things like "Where is____ street?" "Over there?" "Would you like to drink wine?" "Beer?" and all the statement versions of those questions plus a few other basic phrases. Basically, If I go to Germany right now I would be able to find out where a Bar is and order a drink. I think that's all I really need to know...
And of course, for those of you who don't already know, I'm engaged!!!! I think everyone I know is already aware of the gushy details, but if you don't... call me!! I'll tell you all about it.
Other good news:
I bought a new car Scion TC
I will graduate with my Masters this summer, apparently I will be able to pick it up on the way to my PhD after all.
Deb "tells all" Manica
