I understand

that Dr. Odell isn't the best teacher but must we criticize him in front of the entire class? Is that really in the best interest of everyone involved? Absolutely not. I find it childish and annoying, and in reality, it's extremely disrepectful to address a teacher, any teacher, in the manner in which that fuck face douche bag insists on communicating. If you have an issue with the professor, his teaching abilities, or knowledge of the subject and materials, please address them with the prof privately after class. There is no justifiable reason that you have to attempt to belittle him.

The fucking people in this class make me sick. Read the damn book. In the real world, no one holds your goddamn hand and explains everything step by step; you're forced to fill in the blanks and pull the white from the grey to make the black and vice versa.

It is dispicable the way these children behave. There is a nice way to ask for clarification.

"Do you even read the book before you come to class? Do you even know what you're teaching?"---

wait wait, a developement... is he doing it? Is this moron actually walking out in the middle of class because I asked him to refrain from criticizing the teacher in front of everyone?

Yep.

There he goes. And he's storming out. Oh and he wrote a note to the teacher and just threw it at him.

I wish he worked at MoneyGram for April. She would make him take "Controlling Your Emotions"

Fin

[also, please pardon the spelling, ACC uses Internet Explorer, not Firefox]

I <3 Bleach so damn hard

Episode 141 was sad. ;_;

Inoue is cute.

Hangovers only mean a job well done.

I'm finished with my profile. I could not be happier. Well I would be a lot happier if I didn't suck at punctuation. That shit has always confused me. But honestly, back to the profile, what a pain in the ass. It was hard to make myself put all this stuff together in one nice, tidy, not "too long" essay for that ridiculous woman. Ugh.

It's done now. So whew.

I've been watching Alfred Hitchcock movies tonight. Birds and Rope. I love them both very hard. Very funny stuff.

I had such a sweet Saturday that I was still recovering today. In more ways than one. LOL!!! No but really, I swear I was still hung over today and the only thing that made the nausea go away was a beer I had with lunch. I don't normally drink during the day, but it was Nicole's 21st Birthday!!! Bless her. I love her very hard too. She is a fabulous gal.

I went to Craze or Crave or something (I don't really remember because I was drunk when I got there) but it was A-W-E-S-O-M-E. I felt like I was in LA. Or an episode of Sex and the City. LOL. LOLLOLLOLLOLLOL. But sweet none the less. As Ryan so eloquently put it, I've "dumped" Pat's. Pat's was a stepping stone and all it accomplishes now is to remind me of someone I'd rather forget (and am doing a decent job of forgetting so I need no set backs). Plus at Craze/ Crave the boys get bottle service!!!!!!!!!! They make some badass Long Island Iced Teas too. Riss and I were obliterated by the end of the evening...

But before all of the fun, we went to an awful show. And by awful I mean that I would rather burn my record collection than be forced to--- NO WAIT--- I wouldn't do that, but I would rather take rusty nails and shove them through my eyelids than be forced to listen to Cartel ever, EVS again. Good God. TERRIBLE. Add to that a forty year old divorce who's throwing himself all over you and you get one hell of a bad time. The band had the audacity to ask Riss and I to hang out with them. What do we look like?!?!?!?! A couple of fifteen year olds? Please. We OBVIOUSLY declined. Soon after that (and soon after being forced into making yet another date with the Asshole [no longer refers to Dan, it now refers to Old Dude #2 or Paul]) Riss and I got the hell out of Dodge and headed downtown. ^_^



I'm tired so I'm off to bed. I hope I sleep well. Wish me luck. -_-

IT'S DONE!!!!!!!!!! BWAHAHAHAHAHA

Jennifer Fassler
English 121
Profile Essay

It’s the oversized burritos. It’s their rice and spicy salsa, feeding a silent fire growing inside of me. I’ve found myself craving the smoky taste of their shredded Monterrey Jack cheese, the hot zing of salsa mixing with the cool, smooth sour cream; the corn flavor in their crispy, crunchy taco shells. It’s the warmth of the tortilla and familiar glare of the tin foil as they wrap your meal like a baby; well bundled with corners perfectly tucked and folded. It’s the sizzle of the steak as it hits the hot grill and the aroma of bell peppers and onions being sautéed and tossed up into the air, almost like pancakes but not quite the same. It’s the smooth lines of the brushed metal meeting with the blonde wood counter tops. It’s the tiny lights dangling above you, almost threatening, as if they may fall. It’s Chipotle. But is there more to these little Tex- Mex restaurants than just their enormous burritos? Is there something lurking under the surface, waiting to be revealed but is too humbled to admit? What exactly is under that tin foil wrapper?

Peeling back the first layer, you’ll find that Chipotle only uses organic food and dairy products as well as naturally raised meat and poultry which they buy from family owned farms. They don’t like hormones, they don’t like pesticides- they don’t like any of that fake stuff. “Food with Integrity isn’t a marketing slogan. It’s not a product line of natural and organic foods. And it’s not a corporate initiative that will ever be finished or set aside to make room for other priorities. It’s a philosophy that we can always do better in terms of the food we buy. And when we say better, we mean better in every sense of the word- better tasting, coming from better sources, better for the environment, better for the animals, and better for the farmers who raise the animals and grow produce.” In addition to that, Steve Ells, the founder of Chipotle, believes that “by creating a market for meats raised in a healthier environment, we make it worthwhile for these farmers to raise even more. That's how Food with Integrity works for everyone.” Food with Integrity may as well be his motto. This slogan is littered all over their website but you won’t see a word of it in the actual restaurants. No, the food speaks for itself. Although you may not notice it immediately, your body does. And I’m pretty sure it thanks you every time you choose good old Chipotle over gross, greasy McDonald’s.

There has been some speculation regarding Chipotle’s stance on fresh food since, unfortunately, it was owned by McDonald’s. The first Chipotle was started in 1993 here in Denver. Chipotle didn’t always use the best avocados and chicken. Nor did they ever claim to do so. All they can say now is “hey, we’ve got the good stuff today.” In a press release from McDonald’s in 2006, they state, “McDonald’s has decided to dispose of its remaining interest in Chipotle” and “McDonald’s also believes that a separation from Chipotle will afford Chipotle increased flexibility and decision-making power to pursue its own strategic objectives.” No more Micky Ds. “I heard that quite a while ago people were boycotting us because we were owned by [McDonald’s] which is ridiculous because it’s not like we were deep fat frying our tortillas or freeze drying our steak. However, from my perspective now, I suppose I can understand. I think they might have felt betrayed.” Ron, the manager of a Chipotle nestled downtown laughs as he replies to my question about them gaining their independence from the fast food giant. He is of small stature but stands with confidence. He speaks with ease as he leans against the counter. I’ve come in at the perfect time, he says, “right between lunch and afternoon snacks”. “I know plenty of people like you, I see them almost everyday, and after that kind of repetition, it’s hard to forget a face.” He chuckles some more and then greets a customer who has just entered, clearly relieved by the air conditioning her face was met with. Her blonde hairs fly frantically around her face. He continues, “Anyway, it’s people with that kind of devotion- your kind of devotion- that has helped us grow so much. Everyone at Chipotle knows who’s signing their checks. You hold the pen my friend. Now take your tacos and get out of here!”

After I sit down, I focus on the distinctive interior design. No two restaurants are the same yet they all include the same fundamental materials. Light wood counter and table tops along with the seats to chairs and benches, merge with the cool glare of brushed metal. The lines are straight but angular and when your eyes follow the longitudinal lines of the tall windows- framed in that same blonde wood- up to the ceiling which is left nearly exposed-dark metal rafters holding small simple light fixtures- your eyes meet those of nearby customers. They’re carrying on conversations and as they talk with mouthfuls of fajita burritos or crunchy tacos, they wipe the corners of their mouths with a napkin, removing the excess sour cream. Jeremy is twenty- three, living with a couple of his best friends not too far from downtown Denver. All three of the roommates went to high school together but didn’t associate with each other all that much. What brought them together was the mutual love of sporting mustaches just for laughs, going to yoga, and Chipotle. “I think we all love Chipotle for different reasons though,” he licks the guacamole from the corners of his mouth and continues, “Ben loves Chipotle because of its good deeds. Chipotle is a philanthropist. Can you even call a restaurant that?” Why yes, yes I think you can. Chipotle has three criteria for donating money: encourage community participation and attract additional support, meet an identified need in the community, and creatively promote positive change. They also participate in school and other fundraisers which can be held directly at one of their locations. When I tell Jeremy that Ben is onto something, he shakes his head and takes another bite of a tortilla chip piled high with the green paste, chunks of onion poking out like diamonds. “We all appreciate the stuff they do for charities and what not. Canned food drives and free burritos to little kids; I guess we just love their big ass heart.” I laugh as I sip my water, trying to focus on Jeremy and not the guacamole. Jeremy loves Chipotle because “their food is so freaking good” and the people at Chipotle seem to “make Chipotle Chipotle”.

When you order in any of the restaurants you don’t seem to be met with a lot of bad attitude when you ask for something extra or a substitution. However, at Qdoba you’re charged for adding rice to your tacos; which I do on a regular basis; as well as adding any extra cheese or sour cream. Chipotle won’t charge you for rice, but as to be expected, they’ll sometimes charge for extra guacamole although I’ve never been charged when I’ve asked for extra cheese, sour cream, or salsa (but I won’t insist that’s the case at all locations as I’m sure it varies everywhere). At Chipotle you can get a “student drink”- which is free. You’re always guaranteed a smile and a nod from everyone on the front lines, and even the cooks in the back. Certain locations get bombarded at lunch but you wont ever receive a meal that’s less than perfect and that includes the customer service. I often wonder why it doesn’t seem like Chipotle has that high of a turn over rate. I’ve lived in a lot of neighborhoods and I’ve come to know quite a few locations pretty well. Only a few come and go, but most seem to stick around. Isabel has the hint of a Spanish accent, her words roll off her tongue and feel like they dance into my ears. Her voice is soft and her smile sweet. “They’re very flexible with me. I have four children in grade school- they get sick, they get sent home for fighting- you can’t always control what happens at home. My family and I have benefits too. Medical and vision and also dental. It’s just a good place to work. They respect you no matter where you are. You could do what I do or you could work in a the corporate office, it just doesn’t matter.”

As I leave the restaurant, I’m followed by goodbyes and thank yous. I always love coming here, it’s like having your friends make you really good food. And charging you for it. But remove the food and even the nice décor and what do you have? Something with substance? A chain of restaurants with a “big ass heart”? Or just a conscientious corporation aware of what’s right and good, what they should serve to their customers and how they should treat them? Has their attitude towards their employees affected their customer service? Are their contributions to the community and environment playing a roll in the decisions of their customers and do they actually value these customers? The answer is yes to all of the above. I think Steve Ells puts it the best: “Have we achieved our mission? No. Will we ever accomplish it? Never, because Food with Integrity is a constant process of searching and improving. But the changes will be noticeable, positive and significant. And you're part of making it happen, every time you come in.”

Yawn

Almost time for bed... But before I can slip off into a nice dream- less sleep, I have to study for my history exam tomorrow. I finished my power point for astronomy, I hope my group likes it. I finished my profile research assignment and have started the essay. I just have a few interviews and then I should be golden. I'm going to sell Chipotle so hard.

I can't stop yawning.

I went to the Rockies game on Friday. Before that I was hanging out with Nicole and her friend B. We played quarters. Man that is game is freaking sweet. Needless to say, I was pretty well inebriated when Riss came around. We stayed for about three innings and then we went to her house and I passed out.

I spent most of the day yesterday working on that damn power point. I went to my mom's in the evening for spaghetti dinner. It was delicious and she parted with the left- overs. I was excited although I've eaten most of it already.

I got my desk organized at work. I'm so pumped. Rocking my duel monitors and shit. I hung out with Riss for a bit. We watched a bunch of those Ghost Hunters episodes. I totally didn't want her to go. I didn't want to have to start on that essay thing. But I always eventually realize that writing and doing homework isn't nearly as difficult and unbearable as I think it will be.

Paul wants to go to Rilo Kiley on Tuesday. I don't know if I'll make it by then. I'm even skipping Bright Eyes on Thursday. That's so not me. I'm just so tired these days.

Yawn.

Time for studying.

Work It Harder Make It Better. Do It Faster, Makes Us stronger. More Than Ever Hour After. Our Work Is Never Over.

Bleach gets me so stoked; probably more than anything else in my life at the moment. Which may sound sad, but no, it's freaking sweet. Forgetting about all of the "Bullshit Filler" [I've written a couple of previous posts but I can't remember what they're called and I don't fell like checking], the series itself is amazing. These writers (of the manga) had to develop tons of characters that follow you through the story. If you've ever tried to write for even just five or so people you know how tough that would be. Or perhaps it's just a problem I experience. Anyway, the animation isn't bad either. Definitely nothing like Naruto. I don't know, I just don't like that one. Bleach is definitely my favorite at the moment. I was a bit disappointed in this episode but not actually in it, just sad because I was so pumped to see Urahara kick some serious Arrancar ass. Uraraha:



I'm also enjoying the hilarity that is Ouran High School Host Club. I've been watching it on and off for about two months but there really isn't any point in sitting down and watching them all at once. Plus, who has the time for that?

He's one of the more badass dudes on the show.

Class tonight was good; I got a lot accomplished for our project. The only thing I really dislike about working in groups is that everyone must contribute something and if you miss a day, then the whole group can either be fucked or can do your portion to make sure stuff gets done because God only knows if you'll show up next week... Excuse me. The point is, I now have triple the work I started out with; I have to research two different subject matters in regards to Ancient Chinese Astronomy (I don't know, did that need to be capitalized?) and I have to put the entire groups' stuff together into a nice little presentation.

In addition:

I have to study for my Western Civ exam. The test is on Monday.

Also:

I have to do some field research for that stupid profile on a place. I have decided that Chipotle is a fine subject. If not it'll be so well written I could be writing about a dumpster for Christ's Sake and I doubt she would notice. She's very flighty. And perverted.

All of this is subsequently ruling out any hope for social interaction this weekend. Nevertheless, all of this is going to pay off in the end. So worth it.

I've been listening to techno lately. What the fuck? Am I seriously enjoying this crap? I guess so...

I have to get to be early tonight. I've been so tired at work I'm getting cranky. VBAs all over the place.

jen= super hard sudoku puzzle or what?

Within the past hour I've been told that I'm weird and that I don't make sense.

Let me clarify because that sounds really bad as I re-read that in my head.

There is this guy, let's call him Douche Bag #1. So one day after class he asks me if I might want to get together outside of class to study or whatevs and me being the moron I am say, "Yeah, sure!". We exchange numbers and as I'm stuffing his into my backpack (which I have yet to remove) he asks, "Are you single?". What should I have said? Because apparently me saying yes was somehow indicating to him that I want to fuck him or something. Anyway, he asked me after class last Thursday what my weekend was like and I advised him I was pretty busy. He said he would call me on Friday to see if I wanted to hang out. I thought to myself, why would I want to study on a Friday? Umm yeah. I'm a little dense when it comes to dudes. Anyway, on Tuesday I sat in the back of the class. Why this matters I don't know but again, APPARENTLY it indicated something to Douche Bag #1. Also, when he called me on Friday I didn't answer. I kind of figured out what was going on at this point. I actually missed his call, I just neglected to call him back. You're a very lucky individual if I call you back or answer when you call. I am not a phone person at all. Jesus this is turning into my life story...

so I get this text from this dude saying something along the lines of:

You changed seats, you didn't answer when I called, you ran out of class, what is up? I was convinced you actually wanted to hang out. Whatever.

I mean I think I got it. I think that's more or less what he said. I responded with:

I didn't mean to give you the wrong impression, I'm not interested in seeing anyone right now.

His response:

You should have just said so. Weird. Whatever.

Am I the only one confused about this? I mean seriously! Because I was nice to him and we had some good conversations about dark matter and stars colliding but other than that, I never acted the least bit interested in him. Because I never fucking was!

Then...

I was told I don't make sense by someone I was chatting with via one of those instant messenger thingies. Of course it's hard to add inflection of any kind unless you use one of those ridiculous smiley faces or some of that crazy "netiquette" (e.g. LOL, JK, etc) but I thought I was making sense!

He said something about enjoying spooning with a dude, a total joke of course, to which I replied, "I wouldn't put it past you." I think that's where he got lost. Because right after that he sent a stupid ? which doesn't do shit as far as effectively communicating is concerned. All I can assume is that he didn't get something I just said. Or he doesn't agree. Or he's saying "why?" So I don't know. Maybe the joke only makes sense to me. I was burning him. I was saying "I wouldn't put enjoying spooning with a dude past you." As in it doesn't surprise me that he might take pleasure in that. But it was all a joke of course, and I indicated so by typing: JK LOL. I tried to ask him why he was confused and then figured ah fuck it. It's no use anymore with him. I don't need to clarify further. I don't need to explain or justify or assure. Nope. Not my problem.

In other bullshit news...

I bought some crappy short cigarettes yesterday and I'm hating them.

I made a friend in my English class. The teacher did that thing again. You know, where she hops up on the FUCKING desk in a SKIRT for all the world to see her underwear. I don't know what is wrong with that woman but in addition to "Skirt Affair- The Sequel" she was mispronouncing words all over the place!

I have to write a profile on a place or person or event for that class. Jennifer (my new friend ^_^) and I decided we're just going to bullshit our way through it. But I decided my topic: Chipotle. There's a lot going on in that place, esp. around lunch time. I have to interview a few people so I figured I would make Paul come with me and talk to them on my behalf. I'm going to write down what they say in Spanish and then obviously the English translation as well. I'm going to open and close the essay with sentences in Spanish.

I remembered a bunch of stuff from math today. I love it pretty hard. I can't wait for an actual class.

Nicole and Rikki made up. Yay!

I got a tour of the floor where we're moving (work). It's pretty nice. Still work.

Astronomy is going well except for Douche Bag #1. I have my first exam in Western Civ on Monday. yikes.

Brand New is coming. I already got my tickets. ^_^

The Weakerthans are coming as well. Tickets are on their way... ^_^

Time for bed.

is it in you now? do you miss the blend of color she left in your black and white field? do you feel condemed just being there?

I had a nice weekend full of homework and Riss and relaxation. Friday night was spent with Nicole, going to Sherry's going away party and attempting to iron out what I hope was nothing more than a teensy fight between best friends. It's hard to offer advice when you yourself aren't the best at keeping people around.

Saturday was early. Nicole and I helped Sherry move and then I did a bit of homework. I drew the constellations on note cards, hopefully that will prove useful it comes time for exams.

Riss and I met up later in the day and decided to get some Krispy Kremes and go see a couple of movies at the drive in. We saw Bourne Ultimatum and Knocked Up. Both very good movies that I highly recommend to anyone with decent taste in movies.

Sunday was good.

I found out that Brand New is coming which couldn't have come at a more perfect time! I am loving a song from their newest album. The song is called "Sowing Season". Very good. The wonderful thing is that the show is on a Fridee and Riss and I couldn't have asked for anything better. I bought tickets this afternoon.

I didn't do much today, just wrote a couple of essays for Engrish and watched some cool anime things on You Tube.

I'm getting tired so I think I might settle in for the night. Sleep is usually peaceful unless it's filled with dreams of people that are less than desirable. I wish I could control what I dream of; I would dream of oceans or far away jungles or unreachable stars, pretty much anything other than him. Hell I'd even settle for that stupid nightmare I used to have all of the time when I was a child. Alas, I find I have little control over the things I want to control and too much control over those things I find myself too young to be allowed to control.


I'm not your friend. I'm not your lover. I'm not your family.