Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Red Line Fiasco
Commuting on the MBTA red line just got more exciting... Seriously. The red line is shut down on weekends from now until whenever for the 2-5 mile stretch between the edge of Cambridge and the outskirts of Boston/Dorchester. So I got to ride a shuttle bus, normally only acceptable at airports, through the streets of Boston. It felt a little touristy, and I did see a lot of lost-looking people, including a semi-homeless man who asked me to come watch the game with him, but it still beat walking.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Did we lose power?
I'm really starting to wonder if the MBTA has hired undercover subway stop announcers. It's like the PA-system has stopped working on the T or something. Why else is there yet another man calling out the stops en route? WHAT is going on???
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Paranoid Pursuit
Is it just me or do people in this city walk a little too closely behind you? Maybe I'm paranoid, but they are most definitely too dang close to me. Case in point, I was walking home a few days ago, and turned around - because, I'm not completely oblivious to the sound of oncoming footsteps - to see a tall man with a curly mullet and a white sweater practially power-walking not quite 5-feet behind me. #1 violation: do you have a Jerry Curl AND a mullet?? Really? #2: Sir, you're too close. #3: In the words of the Rape and Self-Defense class I'm so happy I took, "GET BACK!!!". And #4: This is why I packs a blade!! LOL, thanks Dad! Ok, well it's a 1.5" swiss army keychain with a nail file and scissors on it, and in an adrenaline-rushed moment, I honestly think my elbows would be stronger sources of defense, but it's on hand nonetheless. Plus I just saw Colombiana... so GET BACK, Boston!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Something's a little off
Such randomness on the train on a Saturday morning! A boy, who looked like he was 15, was standing up announcing the stops as though he'd been hired by the MBTA, except that he deboarded at some point and walked out on the job. Then, an old man got on with a bik that he rattled violently, to the point where most people got off or switched cars at the last stop. Whaaat in the world?
Friday, September 23, 2011
Bike cops to the rescue?
What's funnier than cops on bikes?!? Cops on bikes chasing cars through red lights! Seriously, how'd they think this was going to work? I walked out of the subway yesterday just in time to see an SUV run a red light next to a hospital, while there were still 10 seconds on the crosswalk... So basically a flagrant violation. I don't know what her excuse was when the bike cop caught up with her - which he did, miraculously, pedaling at full speed and because in Boston, there's enough traffic to slow down traffic violators - but she managed not to get a ticket.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Dress Like You Mean It
On the train looking at really awkward fashion choices, I suddenly realize it's not necessarily what you wear that makes a look fashionable. It's whether or not it's intentional, and of course whether you're able to inspire other people with the conviction that it was a really good idea to pair gold sneakers with lime green laces. I see some really unintentional, I-just-rolled-out-of-bed-this-morning-and-threw-on-glittery-clogs-with-my-boyfriend's-varsity-jacket kind of choices. And that's the kind of indifference that'll keep Boston winning the prize for worst-dressed. My dance teachers used to tell us to dance "full out," basically give it your all. That's what I'd like to tell Boston. Bring it!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Tuned in
I rode on the T with headphones for the first time today. It took me a while to understand why you'd want to be tuned out on the train, but I get it now. I stopped short of mouthing the lyrics to Beyonce's latest album, and almost missed my stop for being obsessed with my new phone, but it was mostly worth it. Back to reality tomorrow though. I need new material;-)
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Rude City
Three guy friends on the train, and one just informed the others that Boston was rated one of the rudest cities in the U.S. I'm trying to figure out why they're all surprised... I mean really, I like Boston attractions and scenery and my friends of course, but this is the same city where I struggle to get babies and old people to smile... it's kind of a tough crowd.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Squirrels?
Pedestrian life is hard. I saw two squirrels frolicking in a yard the other day... on closer inspection I realized they were rats. I'm still having trouble swallowing.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Attack of the Little Brown Bird
It's official, I'm being attacked by little brown birds. Yesterday, after a trip to the grocery store, I walked into my apartment to find a little brown bird FLYING along the ceiling panels... I'm serious. I wish it were a joke, or part of an outdoor adventure. I really don't like horror films, and I image this scene was something right out of Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds: A little brown bird, flying upside down, towards me as I screamed and dropped my bags. Apparently the screen was left open?!? Ok, fine, but seriously, WHEN will the avian attacks be over?
Friday, August 5, 2011
No Judgment
Our NYC-bound Megabus driver just told us to turn off our cell phones and generally try not to disrupt our fellow passengers as some of us may be "trying to work, sleep, or nurse a hangover... no judgment." Thanks for understanding the trials of a Friday morning. He's also asked us not to come down the front stairs on the bus as that would, "probably scare the hell out of him." I always appreciate comedy at 8AM!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Why do birds suddenly appear?
Ok, this is NOT the Karen Carpenter song, it's my life! LOL, seriously, why do birds keep almost flying into my face when all I'm trying to do is walk?? My summer brown tan is pretty deep, but am I also starting to resemble bark on a tree? Do I need more moisturizer:( Pigeon after pigeon, little brown bird after little brown bird, swoooops down past my face or inches above my forehead leaving me ducking and weaving to avoid having little feathers go splat across my face. I'm scared for my life. Seriously, I might be one seagull away from getting shat on.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Seriously, are you 5 years old??
Why does a grown woman riding the T with her hands covering her ears to block out foreign languages???
On a crowded Red Line rush hour train yesterday, two women were speaking in another language (which I later learned was Swedish). One was standing, and the other was sitting down in front of me. Another woman seated two people away who was probably paranoid for the whole ride suddenly accuses the standing friend of talking about her, because she must've looked at her while she was talking.
"What did you say to me?"
"Nothing. I wasn't talking to you."
"Well, you were looking at me."
"I was looking all around the train"
"Why don't you speak in English?"
"I don't speak it that well"
"Well you should try"
"Whatever."
(And then as she goes back to talking to her friend, the other woman's hands go up to cover her ears.... like a kid leaving a school building in a fire drill)
And all I can think is, REALLY??? I find it highly concerning when big cities become hostile and xenophobic. I get that there's a lanugage barrier, but isn't there a better way of addressing your concerns than by making people think you're an asshole?
On a crowded Red Line rush hour train yesterday, two women were speaking in another language (which I later learned was Swedish). One was standing, and the other was sitting down in front of me. Another woman seated two people away who was probably paranoid for the whole ride suddenly accuses the standing friend of talking about her, because she must've looked at her while she was talking.
"What did you say to me?"
"Nothing. I wasn't talking to you."
"Well, you were looking at me."
"I was looking all around the train"
"Why don't you speak in English?"
"I don't speak it that well"
"Well you should try"
"Whatever."
(And then as she goes back to talking to her friend, the other woman's hands go up to cover her ears.... like a kid leaving a school building in a fire drill)
And all I can think is, REALLY??? I find it highly concerning when big cities become hostile and xenophobic. I get that there's a lanugage barrier, but isn't there a better way of addressing your concerns than by making people think you're an asshole?
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Real Women Don't Run to the Bus
Except in dire circumstances... In the spirit of making fun of everyone else, I suppose I should to be fair... let me explain.
So I ran for the bus. Practically a sin because a real woman should only run when intentionally exercising! What else could be that pressing? Well, it was a code red - i.e. I would've been lost and stranded in Roxbury. After failed attempts to convince the bus driver to let me on at 3 unofficial bus stops, he finally opened the door (out of respect for my determination) and mildly lectured me on not paying attention to the boarding call - Sir! Your bus was NOT properly labeled!! Then the man sitting on the upper level of seating, leaning forward like he had something seriously important to say like "good run," decided it was a good time to point out that one of my braids was, well, on my seat. (Sidenote: the hair I'm rocking this summer is not realllly mine, it probably came from a religious sacrifice in India (seriously, see Black Hair). Nonetheless, I'm enjoying the freedom of not having to "do" it.) Sigh. I didn't really want to know that. But thanks for being thoughtful...? Humidity can't touch me 'cause "long hair don't care!" but it does get awkwardly silent when someone points out a man down situation. As if running for the bus was not embarrassing enough...
So I ran for the bus. Practically a sin because a real woman should only run when intentionally exercising! What else could be that pressing? Well, it was a code red - i.e. I would've been lost and stranded in Roxbury. After failed attempts to convince the bus driver to let me on at 3 unofficial bus stops, he finally opened the door (out of respect for my determination) and mildly lectured me on not paying attention to the boarding call - Sir! Your bus was NOT properly labeled!! Then the man sitting on the upper level of seating, leaning forward like he had something seriously important to say like "good run," decided it was a good time to point out that one of my braids was, well, on my seat. (Sidenote: the hair I'm rocking this summer is not realllly mine, it probably came from a religious sacrifice in India (seriously, see Black Hair). Nonetheless, I'm enjoying the freedom of not having to "do" it.) Sigh. I didn't really want to know that. But thanks for being thoughtful...? Humidity can't touch me 'cause "long hair don't care!" but it does get awkwardly silent when someone points out a man down situation. As if running for the bus was not embarrassing enough...
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Ok, it's hot, I get it
... but are we realllly carrying around paper cups ad galloon water jugs on the T, and spilling those open cups and jugs onto our fellow passengers?? My toes are wet!!! You know what... sidenote, they do feel cooler though. Ok, I might be all right with this. You still look crazy though.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Booster Seat
I need a booster seat. I have an extra short torso - thanks Mom - and every time I look up, someone's crotch is in my face at eye-level. I don't think I can take it anymore. no one should have to witness this much gyrating on a morning commute.
Friday, July 1, 2011
GET BACK!
I remember learning the lesson about personal body space (PBS) vividly in elementary school, but I suppose not everyone got the memo... on the train a while back, there was a woman with a very interesting tag around her neck. It said:
"In case of fire, remember: R.A.C.E."
I was intrigued, but not as much as the suited up older man next to me, who, without asking, walked over to her while the train was still moving, took hold of the tag, and pulled it super close to his eyes to read. That's FAR too close, sir. Finally, after we stopped and the doors had opened for a few seconds, the woman calmy and politely stated that she needed to get off. What just happened here? Me and my seatmates exchanged the obligatory awkward moment laughs, and I seriously had to give credit to that woman for not yelling "GET BACK" like we do in RAD class... She didn't even flinch when he came close to her. I dunno. I think he would've gotten a tap to the jugular if that had been me. Lucky for him.
"In case of fire, remember: R.A.C.E."
I was intrigued, but not as much as the suited up older man next to me, who, without asking, walked over to her while the train was still moving, took hold of the tag, and pulled it super close to his eyes to read. That's FAR too close, sir. Finally, after we stopped and the doors had opened for a few seconds, the woman calmy and politely stated that she needed to get off. What just happened here? Me and my seatmates exchanged the obligatory awkward moment laughs, and I seriously had to give credit to that woman for not yelling "GET BACK" like we do in RAD class... She didn't even flinch when he came close to her. I dunno. I think he would've gotten a tap to the jugular if that had been me. Lucky for him.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Barefoot and whistling...
Barefoot wonder strikes again! This time I saw him crossing the street with his overstuffed L.L. Bean backpack...
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Peace and calm
Maybe because of all the comedy I see, or because I'm not in charge of doing anything as a passenger, I realized that I probably spend the least stress-crazed moments of my day on the T. I mean, once the stress of figuring out my stop is out of the way, the journey itself is pretty peaceful. Yeah, the trains stall, the buses brake really hard, and I often stand up longer than I'd like, but I'm not responsible for anything except de-boarding. And once that's figured out, I don't have to do anything but sit there, observe, read, listen, and laugh... So, apart from the occasional rank smelling bus, person, or tantrum-throwing child, public transit is a great idea!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Barefoot in Slummerville
Talk about taking chances. This morning I saw a grown adult walking barefoot on strip of un-suburbanized sidewalk in Somerville (aka Slummerville, to give you an idea of the non-beautification, although I suppose the sidewalks were recently redone...). He'd just passed a car wash, and must have stepped over not a few cigarette butts after passing an area where I've seen smaller mammals roaming free... I mean (sigh), I guess. It's not like there's glass strewn everywhere, but put your shoes on, please! I'm the first person to walk barefoot on a hot day, provided there are clean sidewalks, or a beach nearby... but in Cobble Hill? Really sir? Then again, I'm 80% sure this is the same guy I saw playing a brass recorder on his morning walk not long ago. You know what, keep it up. You're providing mild entertainment for my life.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Welcome to Stinky-Town!
So, Bus Tales is all about enjoying the journey (and/or making fun of it) but how can I do that when the bus smells like pee??? I might have to quit riding buses after the last Greyhound trip. The T is still serving up its standard fare of mediocrity, but the Greyhound went above and beyond for writing material. This last adventure was like a trip to R. Kelly's bedroom - a faint and then much stronger odor of urine permeated the air for the entire trip. Double eww. And closing the bathroom door didn't help.
Highlights? I had my own seat!?! There was a cute guy next across from me in a Kangol, although, was that a can of beer in his hand?? Whaaat?? I also saw someone sexting," LOL! Stop yourself, honey! You see what kind of trouble that got Weiner into...
Highlights? I had my own seat!?! There was a cute guy next across from me in a Kangol, although, was that a can of beer in his hand?? Whaaat?? I also saw someone sexting," LOL! Stop yourself, honey! You see what kind of trouble that got Weiner into...
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Fidgeting Frenzy
Something about people fidgeting on the train is so unsettling. Whaaat are you looking for? Maybe I'm just scared they'll pull out some wmd's... I've seen a handful of crazies doing it recently, and just wondered if I was alone in my self-diagnosed ailment: FOF (Fear of Fidgeters).
Friday, May 20, 2011
Steppers Heaven, found!
Unbelievable! Blues band found! The train rolled into Downtown Crossing yesterday and I saw the guitarist/singer playing again. Seriously?? I love it! So... apparently they are NOT called the Scappers, but Steppers Heaven. My bad. Apparently it was the English accent that threw me off. Who knew. I got to meet one of the band's members though, Bobby, and lucky for you I have a facebook link (click the title and watch some videos)!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
At a Loss for the Blues
So a couple of days ago, I actually saw and heard some really GOOD performers while waiting at Downtown Crossing for the Orange line. 2 guitarists, one of them singing, sounding a little John Mayer-esque, a little blues-ish. I actually have no jokes about them, accept that I can't find them! They said they were called The Scappers and are on facebook, but no luck so far :-(
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Naked man runs free on the NYC Subway
THIS man is shouting obscenities, while running NAKED in the NYC subway. WHAT????? I thought the Boston T was ridiculous. Nope. Security, please! (Click title for video footage...)
http://www.worldstaruncut.com/uncut/34013
http://www.worldstaruncut.com/uncut/34013
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Miracle on the T
WAAAAIT a minute! The blind woman is texting!?!?! Jesus is performing miracles on the MBTA. What in the world? She's standing on the opposite platform and still has the giant black lab though... Geez,maybe there are cell phones with Braille keypads? Maybe she's legally blind, but not totally without vision? I am so uninformed...
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Repeat Offender
Today, there was a man on the T soliciting an extra $10 for the commuter rail to get to a town outside the city: "Please, if you can help me out. I'm trying to get to... I have $18.80 and I need $28 to get there. Please, I'm in rehab..." And after some silence and no donations, the guilt trip set in: "Please, come on, no one has anything? I just need a few dollars!"
I may have just been guilt tripped by a beggar. I gave him a dollar. The man sitting next to me then says the same dude was here a few days ago asking for money to visit his kids or something. Sooo, this was not a one time deal, and basically I've been "had"? Great. On the bright side, I have high hopes that this man will have a job soon based on his fundraising abilities alone.
I may have just been guilt tripped by a beggar. I gave him a dollar. The man sitting next to me then says the same dude was here a few days ago asking for money to visit his kids or something. Sooo, this was not a one time deal, and basically I've been "had"? Great. On the bright side, I have high hopes that this man will have a job soon based on his fundraising abilities alone.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Contact Sports
Hockey is definitely a contact sport. But is weed-smoking? I think there might be more fighting than goals going on in a game of hockey, but I shouldn't judge, I'm not an avid watcher. What I DO watch is where I sit on the bus, and a few days ago, I think I almost got a contact high from a fellow T-rider and Bruins fan. I sat down behind an older gent dressed in the signature bumble-bee yellow & black Boston Bruins jersey and shortly after realized he smelled like a doobie... looks like the bees aren't the only ones buzzing, sir.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Embryo Status
Seriously, I think this is the tightest space I've been in since the womb. I'm on the train wondering why people are trying to pack it in like sardines. You know you don't realllly wanna go to work... Anyways, thank goodness State Street is the next stop. It's about to be Exodus out here, movement of Ja people. Looks like Moses and Bob Marley understood my pain.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Played
Sir... I'm pretty sure you just got played by someone who couldn't even see you. Shocking as it is for anyone to offer a seat on the T, the man sitting next to me just did - and even vocalized his offer, not like some eye contact or a head nod that could easily be played off - to a visually impaired woman (I mean, she had a seeing eye dog) who boarded the bus with a giant black lab. Go 'head for not needing anyone's help, but even I take seats offered on the T. It's like finding secret treasure (mmm, or just kindness) in the heart of Beantown.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Beautiful
The day did not end with random man and a stripper comment. Nope, this is Boston, where unsolicited side commentary runs rampant. After these last comments though, I'm thinking maybe I should spend more time on the red line, since apparently the orange line is filled with crazies.
So, post hair appointment - which was fabulous and was with the stylist that shall remain nameless becuase if I say his name I'd have to book appoinments even further in advance than 6 months - compliments were flying. And not that you should believe everything that people tell you, but if it's true, well, I like to embrace that as positive reinforcement;)
One woman stopped mid phone convo tell me my hair looked looked "beeeeautiful!" and another man, let's just call him Cool Cat, told me as he walked by "Young lady, you're the definition of a beautiful black woman." Awwww! You don't even know me, but you are sooo right! Hahaha, love it!
So, post hair appointment - which was fabulous and was with the stylist that shall remain nameless becuase if I say his name I'd have to book appoinments even further in advance than 6 months - compliments were flying. And not that you should believe everything that people tell you, but if it's true, well, I like to embrace that as positive reinforcement;)
One woman stopped mid phone convo tell me my hair looked looked "beeeeautiful!" and another man, let's just call him Cool Cat, told me as he walked by "Young lady, you're the definition of a beautiful black woman." Awwww! You don't even know me, but you are sooo right! Hahaha, love it!
I'm in Love with a Stripper
I guess my pants were too tight. Some slovenly man at Sullivan station sitting very randomly by the elevator after I scanned my Charlie card just asked me if he could sit on his stool and watch me do my Beyonce thang... (extra confused face) I'mmmm not really sure if that was a compliment, or if he was calling me an off-duty stripper? She is attractive, famous, and fabulous, but her onstage "look" consists of uni- or leotards with shimmering pantyhose - a look that just might lend itself to sexual harassment if she could hear the screams of her fans in the audience, or just this particular fat man scoop. Even still, at least she's PERFORMING when she's dressed like that. I'm just tryna go downtown! Soooo, I guess I'm wearing mumu's from now on :(
Saturday, March 19, 2011
The Mad Dash
I must say, the biggest setback to travel is having to take multiple modes of transportation to get to where you wanna be. I know it kind of defeats the purpose of my blog to say this, but sometimes, expediency is of the essence.
I´m currently in Spain:) Which is great. Amazing! And it´s good to be back here and reliving memories of a previous life. The whole traveling sha-bang hasn´t been an issue since I´m traveling with a good friend and a tourbus. But... getting to Madrid from Boston was a 6 step process including the 4 subway connections, 1 bus, and a plane ride - mostly with a 40 pound suitcase in tow (I know, my bad). But still...
Some day, my version of traveling in style will not just be walking down the street with extra sass and riding elevators so as not to break a sweat. No. Some day, traveling in style will imply a car rental or chauffeur to bypass [almost] all of those steps.
I´m currently in Spain:) Which is great. Amazing! And it´s good to be back here and reliving memories of a previous life. The whole traveling sha-bang hasn´t been an issue since I´m traveling with a good friend and a tourbus. But... getting to Madrid from Boston was a 6 step process including the 4 subway connections, 1 bus, and a plane ride - mostly with a 40 pound suitcase in tow (I know, my bad). But still...
Some day, my version of traveling in style will not just be walking down the street with extra sass and riding elevators so as not to break a sweat. No. Some day, traveling in style will imply a car rental or chauffeur to bypass [almost] all of those steps.
Friday, February 25, 2011
TSA hateration
Downside of taking the T: getting stopped twice in two weeks right as your train to go home is pulling into the station stop. TSA!!!!!! Just when I thought I didn't have a temper, my trained pulled off. I knew this red purse was too flashy. TSA was clearly just hating on the flyness.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Unsheltered in Beantown
This is not a big city, but there are a LOT of homeless people in Boston. And it must be really hard. I mean, it's cold, the people are mostly assholes. Even I don't reach into my bag to pull out a dollar for the man who regularly boards at Downtown Crossing asking for fare for the commuter rail. So, it's always confused me why the unsheltered population stays here, year-round, and particularly through the winter? I'm not totally ignorant, and I realize that homelessness happens everywhere, and that on top of that, being without means kind of screws up your winter vacation plans. But I think I'd start heading south. Like the birds, but on foot.
But... if everyone left, who would sing and give me compliments while I waited for the next train?
"Let me hold you tight
if only for one night
let me keep you near
to ease away your fear..."
I know this was a good song when Luther sang it, but when intoxicated Homeless Man #1 sang it, it sounded more like a strained punctuated version of a Luther classic. Painful. Fear-inducing. I'm just glad he wasn't trying to raise money. That would've been really funny because he was baaaad. Although, I'm glad the lyrics touched him...
Another man sat down next to me on a bench at the station and said he liked my purse. Yet another uncomfortable moment. Then he asked me where I was enrolled in school, and told me he'd gotten his PhD from Boston University (so... ix-nay on the PhD plan??). When the train pulled into the station, he followed me onto it from a different doorway... yeah. Discrete. This is why I keep my phone on 911 speed-dial. Turns out he wasn't stalking me. Maybe I could even learn something from his positivity/resilience/willful ignorance/insanity: he complimented the other T-riders even as the people sitting immediately to his right and left got up and moved away to avoid the smell (or the awkwardness of being in close proximity with something that makes us all a little uncomfortable).
But... if everyone left, who would sing and give me compliments while I waited for the next train?
"Let me hold you tight
if only for one night
let me keep you near
to ease away your fear..."
I know this was a good song when Luther sang it, but when intoxicated Homeless Man #1 sang it, it sounded more like a strained punctuated version of a Luther classic. Painful. Fear-inducing. I'm just glad he wasn't trying to raise money. That would've been really funny because he was baaaad. Although, I'm glad the lyrics touched him...
Another man sat down next to me on a bench at the station and said he liked my purse. Yet another uncomfortable moment. Then he asked me where I was enrolled in school, and told me he'd gotten his PhD from Boston University (so... ix-nay on the PhD plan??). When the train pulled into the station, he followed me onto it from a different doorway... yeah. Discrete. This is why I keep my phone on 911 speed-dial. Turns out he wasn't stalking me. Maybe I could even learn something from his positivity/resilience/willful ignorance/insanity: he complimented the other T-riders even as the people sitting immediately to his right and left got up and moved away to avoid the smell (or the awkwardness of being in close proximity with something that makes us all a little uncomfortable).
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Grown and Sexy?! Ha! It's too cold for that
I told my friend that fashion stopped mattering 20 degrees ago. Again, not necessarily true of the driving crowd, but when you have to bundle up for survival, you stop caring if your boots match your scarf or if the extra layers look too bulky. If you're warm, then it doesn't even matter. The cold ones of us keep it cold-weather fly (or super unfly) in fleeces, extra puffy coats, snow boots that look like we killed an animal, and other such attire.
Apparently, thinking like this puts me in good company with parents of small children. Indeed, the little people are the only other ones I see bundled to perfection, matching or not, albeit looking much cuter while doing it. I think part of the cuteness is that they have no choice, and you can see that in their confused faces. I remember being 6 or 7 and crying because my Dad told me I had to wear these fugly jeans lined with plaid-patterned fleece. Of course they had to be rolled up at the ankle for the cuteness (read fugliness) to have its full effect. It made me so mad - the struggles of not being able to choose your personal style!! But really, I wish I had those now. Sorry for the struggles, Dad. I would totally wear those now.
There are a lot of people who still do care about fashion in wintertime Boston, and look cold while doing it, but for the most part, I assume they're not full-time pedestrians or tiny tots. I say, at least in winter, lets relax the standard and redefine this whole "grown and sexy" thing... any takers?
Apparently, thinking like this puts me in good company with parents of small children. Indeed, the little people are the only other ones I see bundled to perfection, matching or not, albeit looking much cuter while doing it. I think part of the cuteness is that they have no choice, and you can see that in their confused faces. I remember being 6 or 7 and crying because my Dad told me I had to wear these fugly jeans lined with plaid-patterned fleece. Of course they had to be rolled up at the ankle for the cuteness (read fugliness) to have its full effect. It made me so mad - the struggles of not being able to choose your personal style!! But really, I wish I had those now. Sorry for the struggles, Dad. I would totally wear those now.
There are a lot of people who still do care about fashion in wintertime Boston, and look cold while doing it, but for the most part, I assume they're not full-time pedestrians or tiny tots. I say, at least in winter, lets relax the standard and redefine this whole "grown and sexy" thing... any takers?
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Hardcore workout
For those of us who don't go to the gym - like, ever - walking to the bus or train station can be a major accomplishment. Ok, so I'm not completely without hope of a quickened heartbeat, but getting to the train station requires either a 15-minute walk or a 4-minute bus ride. You see what I mean? The problem is in the waiting. Sometimes, the bus takes 15 minutes to arrive and that's when I have to muster up my anger management skills ("I could have been there by now!!.. breathe").
Anyhow, back to the workout. This morning, I almost overheated on my way to the train station. It's Saturday, I was in no rush, and I decided to just "walk it out". I'm still not accustomed to how hot I can get underneath 3 layers of clothing, and I nearly broke a sweat on a 30-degree day. Yes, out here in Boston's pedestrian-land, it's been so cold the last couple of weeks that a 30-degree day feels like Heaven. (By comparison, I stepped outside a few days ago to 1 degree air... On the bright side, it wasn't windy that day, so I could still breathe without freezing my face AND my throat.) Still in 30 degrees, I'm reluctant to go without the long-johns, although as the winter progresses, it feels like they're less and less necessary. But I guess I like sweating. Seriously, you know you've been in New England for a minute when 30 degrees starts to feel like 60 and 1 starts to feel like 10. But hey. Anything beats waking up to another 1 degree day. (Unless it was -15 the day before.)
Anyhow, back to the workout. This morning, I almost overheated on my way to the train station. It's Saturday, I was in no rush, and I decided to just "walk it out". I'm still not accustomed to how hot I can get underneath 3 layers of clothing, and I nearly broke a sweat on a 30-degree day. Yes, out here in Boston's pedestrian-land, it's been so cold the last couple of weeks that a 30-degree day feels like Heaven. (By comparison, I stepped outside a few days ago to 1 degree air... On the bright side, it wasn't windy that day, so I could still breathe without freezing my face AND my throat.) Still in 30 degrees, I'm reluctant to go without the long-johns, although as the winter progresses, it feels like they're less and less necessary. But I guess I like sweating. Seriously, you know you've been in New England for a minute when 30 degrees starts to feel like 60 and 1 starts to feel like 10. But hey. Anything beats waking up to another 1 degree day. (Unless it was -15 the day before.)
Monday, February 7, 2011
That's disgusting
I had a hard tme keeping my breakfast down this morning after overhearing the woman next to me describe in detail over the phone how her sick cat puked... no vomited, AND had diarrhea on someone else's bed. By the time she started talking about cleaning the bedspread, I just wanted it to be over. And judging by the pain the cat was in, little fuzzy probably just wanted it to be over too, or at least not to have his business spread willy-nilly in the streets. Get fuzzy to a vet, por favor!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
This isn't gym class!!!
I really thought that the last appropriate place to publically wear sweatpants was at the gym, or in physical education. So why are people still riding the T in baggy tight-ankled sweatpants??? LOL! Can this be banned? Seriously though...
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
The Breaking Point
Remember the science teacher from the Wonder Years, Mr. Cantwell? His real name is Ben Stein, and he also played up the same famously monotonous voice on the Visine commercials? Well, apparently, he's also a subway conductor/announcer for the Boston MBTA.
Ok, not really. But there is a T-conductor who sounds JUST like him. I've heard his gently depressing bass monotone (think Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh) at least once every couple of weeks when our paths cross on the T. "Neeext stop... Dooowntooown Crooossing."
A couple of days ago somebody made him mad, proving that the monotone is actually his relaxed alter ego. I guess the passengers at Downtown Crossing were not listening when he told them to step back from the yellow line, and Mr. Monotone called out a certain gentleman for not paying attention! I was shocked!! I'm still hoping not to be on his bad side, ever. I prefer him as Eeyore/Mr. Cantwell.
Ok, not really. But there is a T-conductor who sounds JUST like him. I've heard his gently depressing bass monotone (think Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh) at least once every couple of weeks when our paths cross on the T. "Neeext stop... Dooowntooown Crooossing."
A couple of days ago somebody made him mad, proving that the monotone is actually his relaxed alter ego. I guess the passengers at Downtown Crossing were not listening when he told them to step back from the yellow line, and Mr. Monotone called out a certain gentleman for not paying attention! I was shocked!! I'm still hoping not to be on his bad side, ever. I prefer him as Eeyore/Mr. Cantwell.
Monday, January 31, 2011
How Much Is Too Much?
Really. How much is too much information to share on public transportation? And whatever happened to inside voices? I've had to hear stories about health problems, disputes in every language, cuss-words in any and every language, teary eyed conversations... often happening via cell phone. It's not that I don't have one or like to use it, but...sometimes it's just TMI for a public conversation where onlookers think you're the only crazy one yelling...
One day, on a packed Orange line train bound for work, gripping onto poles and handles to stay upright, there was a guy sitting down next to me, who sounded and looked like a teenage boy. More importantly, he was sharing way too much information over the cell phone. I couldn't tell if he was being intentionally ridiculous, or if that was his personality. Either way I was laughing along with the woman standing next to me..
"They're taking medicaid out of my check. Isn't that health insurance? ... We're in a recession. People don't need health insurance they need jobs. When I get sick, I take my ass to CVS. Some cough drops fix me better than any doctor. We're in Massachusetts, we're supposed to have some of the best doctors. That shit's expensive though."
Health insurance is expensive, Sir. But my guess is you'd need fewer cough drops if you could take your voice down a notch. Just a suggestion. Although, that would mean less comedy for all. Nevermind, stay loud.
One day, on a packed Orange line train bound for work, gripping onto poles and handles to stay upright, there was a guy sitting down next to me, who sounded and looked like a teenage boy. More importantly, he was sharing way too much information over the cell phone. I couldn't tell if he was being intentionally ridiculous, or if that was his personality. Either way I was laughing along with the woman standing next to me..
"They're taking medicaid out of my check. Isn't that health insurance? ... We're in a recession. People don't need health insurance they need jobs. When I get sick, I take my ass to CVS. Some cough drops fix me better than any doctor. We're in Massachusetts, we're supposed to have some of the best doctors. That shit's expensive though."
Health insurance is expensive, Sir. But my guess is you'd need fewer cough drops if you could take your voice down a notch. Just a suggestion. Although, that would mean less comedy for all. Nevermind, stay loud.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Werewolf on the T
Do you remember when Michael J. Fox played the Teen Werewolf?(Maybe I'm dating myself, but I really was only a year old when this move came out...)
A while back, I boarded the bus on my way home (probably the crazy 86 again), and noticed that the man sitting across the aisle had werewolf hands. (Deep breath.) You know, long-haired, furry, extra long, beast-like hands. As I sat shocked, debating the whole "fight or flight" thing, I realized they were just gloves. At least that's what I keep telling myself. And I just kept wondering WHY? Sitting across from the beast, I think I managed to keep a straight face, but couldn't stop staring at his "gloves". It was past Halloween, and not close to the coldest day of winter, so I'm still left wondering, was all that really necessary?
A while back, I boarded the bus on my way home (probably the crazy 86 again), and noticed that the man sitting across the aisle had werewolf hands. (Deep breath.) You know, long-haired, furry, extra long, beast-like hands. As I sat shocked, debating the whole "fight or flight" thing, I realized they were just gloves. At least that's what I keep telling myself. And I just kept wondering WHY? Sitting across from the beast, I think I managed to keep a straight face, but couldn't stop staring at his "gloves". It was past Halloween, and not close to the coldest day of winter, so I'm still left wondering, was all that really necessary?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Flossin'
Today, there was a man on the 86 bus flossing his teeth. Sir... really, there's just GOT to be a better way.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Rockin' Out
This morning, in 15 degree weather, there was a guy sitting next to me on the train in a hoodie. First violation. I thought he was alert to the rest of the world, and then I saw that he had an mp3 player plugged into both ears. Maybe that would explain why he was rocking out without a care in the world.
It started slowly, but in a couple of minutes, I could feel the motion of his head rocking back and forth as he leaned forward and really got into whatever was playing in his ears. I couldn't help but laugh, because he seemed so confident that no one was watching him. Really? I thought for a second, maybe he's crazy... You know, maybe he dropped his guard for a minute, but he'll have a quick recovery when he sees that people are watching, and then he'll play it off like his head was bobbing by accident. Nope. The concert next to me continued. I was laughing, I mean, it just wasn't worth getting upset even if he was bumping into me.
It started slowly, but in a couple of minutes, I could feel the motion of his head rocking back and forth as he leaned forward and really got into whatever was playing in his ears. I couldn't help but laugh, because he seemed so confident that no one was watching him. Really? I thought for a second, maybe he's crazy... You know, maybe he dropped his guard for a minute, but he'll have a quick recovery when he sees that people are watching, and then he'll play it off like his head was bobbing by accident. Nope. The concert next to me continued. I was laughing, I mean, it just wasn't worth getting upset even if he was bumping into me.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Public Transportation is Underrated
Not that I am or always have been the biggest fan of taking public transportation, but it if must be done, then I’m going to find a way to enjoy it. The idea really came to me one night many months ago while on a seriously long bus ride.
“Thanks, Greyhound, for providing leather seats, AC, and electrical outlets on a 4-hour bus journey from Boston to New Haven. We both know it doesn’t need to take this long, so I appreciate your efforts to give back and keep me as a greyhound customer. I will be back. Despite the fact that it’s easier and cheaper to bus it to New York, CT seems to be my destination of choice. Apparently, even in adulthood, the only destination that still matters is home…”
I think I recognize the man behind me. He's been on this bus before, bound for the casinos. Tonight, he asked if I had a rabbit's foot (let me see...mm, no). I'm not sure if he wanted one, or if he was implying that I, myself, was a good luck charm. Like an older gentleman, he eventually let the topic die and wished me safe travels. I still don't know what he meant...”
Commuting or traveling anywhere with strangers can be uncomfortable, but it can also be hilarious. To be fair, I like to laugh, so it doesn’t take much. But, there is so much that happens on the journey to the destination, and I realized I was probably taking a lot of it for granted. I don’t mean just the fact that the driver stayed awake or that we arrived on time, I’m talking about the fact that your neighbor asks you for a rabbit’s foot, the lady across from you sounds like she has tuberculosis (and you do not contract it), or the fact that the guy behind you has decided to leave all of his luggage in the middle of the aisle. Are you kidding me??
Still, with this idea for appreciating the whole experience of getting where I was going and being a lot more observant about my surroundings, I learned to expect the unexpected while traveling, and I think it has seriously lightened the mood on my commutes. I’m living every second of my life whether or not I take advantage of it, so if it takes 4 hours to get from Boston to CT on a bus, I might as well live the experience and not just wait for it to be over.
“Thanks, Greyhound, for providing leather seats, AC, and electrical outlets on a 4-hour bus journey from Boston to New Haven. We both know it doesn’t need to take this long, so I appreciate your efforts to give back and keep me as a greyhound customer. I will be back. Despite the fact that it’s easier and cheaper to bus it to New York, CT seems to be my destination of choice. Apparently, even in adulthood, the only destination that still matters is home…”
I think I recognize the man behind me. He's been on this bus before, bound for the casinos. Tonight, he asked if I had a rabbit's foot (let me see...mm, no). I'm not sure if he wanted one, or if he was implying that I, myself, was a good luck charm. Like an older gentleman, he eventually let the topic die and wished me safe travels. I still don't know what he meant...”
Commuting or traveling anywhere with strangers can be uncomfortable, but it can also be hilarious. To be fair, I like to laugh, so it doesn’t take much. But, there is so much that happens on the journey to the destination, and I realized I was probably taking a lot of it for granted. I don’t mean just the fact that the driver stayed awake or that we arrived on time, I’m talking about the fact that your neighbor asks you for a rabbit’s foot, the lady across from you sounds like she has tuberculosis (and you do not contract it), or the fact that the guy behind you has decided to leave all of his luggage in the middle of the aisle. Are you kidding me??
Still, with this idea for appreciating the whole experience of getting where I was going and being a lot more observant about my surroundings, I learned to expect the unexpected while traveling, and I think it has seriously lightened the mood on my commutes. I’m living every second of my life whether or not I take advantage of it, so if it takes 4 hours to get from Boston to CT on a bus, I might as well live the experience and not just wait for it to be over.