Life... with a job!

Once you better know yourself, you can grow by easing into your discomfort zone. 

The Minimalists

Thursday, February 20 - As luck would have it, a good friend from home was in Seattle this week.  We were able to meet up Thursday evening.  Based off of a recommendation, we went to a restaurant called Local 360.  As the name suggests, everything is locally sourced from within a 360 mile radius.  There was some delicious macaroni and cheese to be had, as well as some OUTSTANDING salted caramel apple ice cream.  

Friday, February 21 - After WhitePages' Happy Hour, I met up with a new friend to see the Head and the Heart concert.  Seattle is a huge music city.  A few bands to come from Seattle are Nirvana, Pearl Jam, The Sonics, Macklemore, and Jimi Hendrix. The Head and the Heart is also a Washington native.  As such, they kept the opening acts local as well; La Luz and Rose Windows (pictured below) opened. 

The concert was awesome.  Amazing voices and great melodies.  Two of my favorites from The Head and the Heart are Homecoming Heroes and Summertime.  

Saturday, February 22 - Today has been spent willing my body back to good health.  I've been battling a cold this week so I'm trying to rest up when I can.  My (late) morning began with fresh juice and Skyping with a few of my favorite people.  Other than that, my roommate and I have been enjoying a House of Cards marathon. :)

Sunday, February 23 - Much the same as yesterday; I'm trying to kick this cold with laundry, relaxing, cleaning, and a lot of healthy home cooking.  It does feel great to be productive!

...fast forward to...

Wednesday, February 26 - Busy week!  Not much to report except that I'm working a lot and enjoying the job.  There is no lack of work and, as per usual, I'm usually found running around the office trying to get something done.  Tonight, I volunteered to stay for a Meet-Up that the office is hosting.  I brought a book with me and am currently lounging in a massive bean bag chair with a beer to my left (see below, I told you it was big).  No complaints here. :)

Nice to meet you, WhitePages!

What a week!  I must say, I feel unbelievably lucky to be working for WhitePages.  As soon as you walk in the door, you can feel the energy.  Whether it's the open design, the bright colors, the fully stocked kitchen, or the kegerator (!!!), everything is geared towards a positive work environment.  There are bean bag chairs that could fit an entire family.  I only wish those had been around when I was growing up...  I'm only four days in, but the people are fantastic as well - incredibly intelligent, well-spoken, and friendly!

One of the best parts of getting into the office early is having it to myself.  Then, I can act like a tourist and take pictures without people thinking I'm weird.  I'm sure they'll find that out on their own soon enough, if not already.

So let's take a virtual tour of my office, shall we?

Main entrance.  All employees are pictured on the wall. 

Common area off of the entryway - used for meetings, lounging, happy hours...

Whiskey bar and kegerator.  Next week, I plan to invite myself on the committee that determines beer selection.  Last week, we had a pilsner, red ale, and porter.  Good variety, but seems to be lacking in, oh, I don't know, HOPS.

Kitchen off of the common area.  Every drink that you can imagine is stocked here. Also available: fresh fruits, vegetables, and snacks.

Please step into my office.  Back right desk by the window is me.  At the other three desks sit my collective bosses - CEO, CFO, and CTO.  Very open culture.  The desks can also convert to standing desks.  

View from my desk.  Admittedly, it is darker and overcast in the morning.  However, come afternoon, that sun shines bright!

My favorite view this week: the gorgeous wonderful-smelling lilies from my amazing family back home. :)

One of the lounge areas where I creep out the windows to see the Needle and mountains in the distance.

WhitePages has an internal social network, similar to facebook.  For those employees I hadn't met in person, this is how they met me on Day One.  Nothing screams "first impression" like bacon.

Lastly, every other Friday, there is a Happy Hour hosted by one of the departments. This week's theme was political and with a Ziploc baggie, I was able to assist with a quick frosting job on the cupcakes!

I could go on and on about all of the amazing benefits they offer, but I have a feeling you're not liking me right now.  So I'll leave you with one final thought - chair massages, every week.

Oh, Canada!

"Travel is more than just A to B.  Travel should inspire a departure from the everyday."

Wednesday, February 12 - My friend, Dave, introduced me to Paseos.  It's a Cuban sandwich venue where they serve delicious sandwiches the size of your face.  They're lined with crack, I'm almost sure of it.

After recovering from my food coma, I had an appointment to see about fixing my troublesome knee.  Unfortunately, I'm off running for about 10 weeks.  However, I am excited to get my body back in proper working order.  After my appointment, it was on to wine and lounging with my friend, Matt.  Ah, the days of "funemployment".

 

Thursday, February 13 - Most of the day was spent packing and relaxing.  Oh!  and I received my first installment of my Beer of the Month Club - exciting!!!

Friday, February 14 - Northbound to Canada!  This weekend was spent amidst the gorgeous backdrop of British Columbia. 11 of us made the five hour drive across the border to Whistler-Blackcomb.  That evening was spent lounging in the house and eating brats.  Not just any brats though - brats with cream cheese.  Apparently, it's a Northwestern thing to use cream cheese as a condiment?  Wherever the idea came from, it was brilliant.

Saturday, February 15 - aka "Lisa's first time skiing in two years."  Most of my day was spent tumbling down Blackcomb mountain.  Perhaps that's an exaggeration, but suffice it to say, my previous three ski trips didn't seem to do me any favors.  Thankfully, a very patient friend, Amber, helped give me beta during the first run.  I skied for about 2.5 hours, rocking the green slopes like a BOSS.  The glorious thing about the green slopes is that nobody else is on them.  I had a lot of wonderful, peaceful moments to myself where I could simply look around and marvel at the stunning scenery surrounding me.

After everyone was done skiing, we met up at a bar in the village.  Pictured below is the delicious beergarita - an ingenious combination.  Back at the house, it was a race to the hot tub followed by Cards Against Humanity.  Is any weekend really complete without it? 

  
Sunday, February 16 - While the ski enthusiasts were racing back to the mountain to enjoy some fresh powder, a few of us went a different route.  Craig, Natalie, and I started our morning in Whistler Village 'watching' the Canada vs. Finland hockey game.  After the win, we proceeded to tour the village, frequenting a brewery right next to the Olympic rings from the last winter Olympics.  The first picture below is the view from our house in the morning.  The mountain is hiding behind the clouds.

That night, a group of us walked back to Whistler Village.  Though the entire night was a blast, the walk was the best part.  It was on a beautiful path, surrounded by trees covered in freshly fallen snow.  It was the perfect way to get a second wind; plus, the alcohol kept us warm (and admittedly, silly). We hit up a few bars in town, and truly enjoyed our last night in Canada.

Monday, February 17 - Not much to report today.  We made our drive back, stopped at a brewery on the way, and I'm already unpacked and have the laundry going!  

Tomorrow is my first day at WhitePages!  I'm excited and plan to hit the sack early in preparation. :)

Happy Anniversary!

It's my Anniversary!  Don't worry, I won't be upset if you didn't get me a card.  Seattle and I celebrate our two week anniversary today.  I feel like a teenage couple that celebrates every milestone, no matter how big or small... 

"Seattle showed me mountains the other day.  Seattle is the best cook - and healthy too!  Yesterday, Seattle and I enjoyed a walk downtown.  This weekend, I'm leaving Seattle to go to Canada.  Next week, Seattle and I take a big step together as I start my new job."  

Wickawhat?!  That's right.  Yours truly is starting work next week!  More about that below. :)


Saturday, February 8 - My second run with the running group!  We ran through a stunning neighborhood called Madison Park.  The houses were breathtaking. Everyone ran between 4-8 miles.  Short legs over here ran a solid 2.5 - and damn proud of it!  Unfortunately, it seems my IT band snuck its baggage into my car before we left Chicago.  So that's something I'm working on.  Below is the beach where I did my post-run stretching/wincing. 

That night, I went to see The Lego Movie with friends.  Upon leaving the theatre, people lost their minds.  It was snowing.  A lot.  Well, for Seattle - about an inch or so. Theatre staff were staring out the windows and everybody was talking about the snow.  Fun fact for the midwesterners, very few people own snow brushes here for their car.  It hardly snows, so why would they?  Still, the mini-scrapers don't seem to be as efficient when needed.  Little Mazda Blue obviously felt right at home.

 

Sunday, February 9 - Everyone's advice to a new 'transplant' in Seattle is to invest in solid coats.  It seems that 'seven' is the average number of coats that people have here.  Seems extensive to me, but then again, I've only been here two weeks and I've already worn four coats.  Kristina and I spent the afternoon shopping and I picked up a new raincoat - and went kayaking?!  Whoa!!!  Afterwards, we went to a brewery for a going away party.  I had a delicious Imperial IPA and stout.  Stouts are quickly moving up on my list of favorite beers! 

Monday, February 10 - Yesterday, I had my third interview with White Pages (http://whitepagesinc.com/about/).  A two hour interview quickly turned into four and a half hours.  I was able to meet a lot of people and get a good feel for the role and its responsibilities.  This was also the first interview where I was quizzed onsite for ability! It was a little nerve-wrecking until I looked at work that I've been doing for the last seven years and felt right at home.  My interview ended quite well as I was offered the position!  Next Tuesday, I will begin as the new Office Manager and EA for White Pages. I am so excited to become part of this team.  The culture is just what I was looking for and I feel the role will be fun and challenging.  There are so many amazing perks that come with this company as well.  More about that next week. :)

So, now that I only have a few days left of "freedom", those who know me know exactly what I want to do: be even more productive!!  Cooking, laundry, making cards (surprise!), all that good stuff!  With that said, I can't do that and type at the same time.  Ciao! 

Sunshine and Blue Skies

I've said it before and I'll say it again, my arrival in Seattle couldn't have been timed better.  Yes, the chilly weather is a bit of a bummer.  If I wanted to scrape frost off my windshield in 20 degree temperatures, I would have stayed in Chicago, am I right or am I right?!  At least that bomber hat is still getting some use.  Any excuse to wear it is really fine by me, but I digress...

Wednesday, February 5 - Seahawks Parade and Rally Downtown.  This was an all-day affair (yay unemployment perks!).  I was so fortunate to be able to go into the stadium for the rally, thanks to a new friend who works for Paul Allen (the owner of the Seahawks - it's not the name of a law firm like I thought).  Due to a delayed start, waiting for the rally involved chilling in the stadium for about 3 hours with no beer sales.  Nevertheless, it was fun to see the team and, of course, the hawk enter through the tunnel.  As it was very cold that day, and we all agreed that 10 toes were better than 9, we hit up a bar soon afterwards.

Thursday, February 6 - My first run with the Running Group!  I survived 3 miles at a brisk (for me) 10:15 pace, followed by burritos and margaritas.  Talk about finding motivation at the end of a run.  There were about 25 people, so I was able to catch up with some familiar faces and meet a few new ones as well.  In case I haven't brought it to light yet, everyone here is incredibly friendly and welcoming. 

Friday, February 7 - I started my morning with an interview downtown.  I'll keep you posted on any blog-worthy news; think good thoughts for me!  The rest of the day was filled with productivity (yay laundry!!!*) and again, the awesome dog park over lunch.  Due to a wrong turn, I ended up taking a scenic detour where I saw the spread of the Cascades before me.  I'm pretty sure I exclaimed 'Holy Crap!' as I came over the hill, so you know it's good.

*If you know me, you know that this is not sarcasm.

Not All Who Wander...

“Man cannot discover new oceans

unless he has the courage to lose sights of the shore.”

- Andre Gide

February 4.  Today marks the end of my first week in Seattle.  Contrary to popular belief, it has not rained every day that I have been here.  We've even had some sunny days!! (Don't tell the locals I told you; they like to keep it a secret).  Even though I am unpacked and settled, I feel like a traveler on vacation - who just happens to have all of her belongings. Given travel is a large part of my life, I think my brain has simply gone into tourist mode. Thankfully, tourist mode has its benefits, mainly, the urge to experience everything new.

I've been keeping busy this week and plan to keep it that way.  For the first time in almost 30 years, I am miles away from my beloved family.  They are the greatest gift ever bestowed on me.  I feel disconnected without them but despite my sadness, I know Seattle is where I am supposed to be right now.  I can feel it when I'm in the city or looking at the mountains from the highway.  I am so excited to be here.  

This blog will serve as a journal of my time out West; enjoying the mountains, finding hoppy beers, etc. (hence the name 'Hop to the West' - see what I did there?!).  I plan to use more pictures than words (present entry excluded).  With that said, here is a pictorial summary of my journey, thus far.

Saturday, January 25, 5:00 am - My dad and I hit the road with all my possessions in the Mazda's backseat and trunk (win!).  We hit up breweries, survived 30+ mph winds blowing snow onto the road, purchased some of the cheapest gas in the US (thanks, Bozeman!), and rocked out to our favorite classics.  31 hours and 2,100 miles.  It sounds long, but if you have the perfect company, it can fly by.

Tuesday, January 28 - Arrive in Seattle.  We unloaded the car and unpacked in less than two hours.  I am staying with my friend, Matt, until more permanent arrangements arise. My mom and Christina flew in that evening.  We went downtown to Pike's brewery for dinner.  Thanks to the two hour time difference, we all crashed early.  My dad and mom at a hotel nearby; Christina and I snuggly in my twin bed. 

Wednesday, January 29 - Family Day spent swimming in the hotel, visiting wineries, and enjoying the best of company.  A few loving tears.

Thursday, January 30 - I dropped off my loved ones at SEA-TAC and, miraculously, didn't get into an accident on my way home.  Tears.  That evening, I volunteered with Kristina at the Northwest Avalanche Center's Snowball Event.  I helped check-in all of the attendees and tracked the auction purchases.  It was a fun way to spend the evening!

Friday, January 31 - Went to the dog park with Kristina (and Porter!) followed by a relaxing night-in with my roommate, Matt!

Saturday, February 1 - I met up with the 'Running Group' for their post-run breakfast. They have runs 3 days/week at varying locations.  I did not partake in Saturday's run, but was more than happy to join them for mimosas and delicious food afterwards!  I also spent a little time downtown taking touristy photos. :)

 

Sunday, February 2 - Super Bowl!!!  What more can I say.  It was an incredible way to spend my first Sunday in Seattle, celebrating a Seahawks win!  Not to mention, I met about 20 new people who were all over to watch the game.  There was even a kale salad(!) - another reason I'm so excited to be here.

   

Monday, February 3 - I visited the dog park with friends in the afternoon.  That evening, I attended a game night.  My roommate, Matt, started this 9 months ago.  It takes place once a month in the Columbia Tower, the second tallest structure on the West Coast.  From floor 75, you can see the city and play a million games you've never heard of before (believe me, you haven't heard of them).  I... did not do so well, but it was fun!

Tuesday, February 4 - Today, I continued my job search and 'treated' my body to its first 3 mile run in... well, way too long.  It wasn't pretty, but I did have some stunning scenery to help me get through!  Now, I'm off to a 'Chicago' bar to watch the Bulls game with a few Chicago natives.

So there it is!  A quick snapshot into my first week out West.