I am Driving Excitement

I finally got a new car. This one feels good. I've been driving for nearly 13 years, and this is the first time I've purchased a new car just for myself. (Thank you to my parents, who handed me down several very groovy cars over the years, which were fast, well-equipped sedans.) It's not brand new, but considering the newest vehicle I'd ever owned was a 2000 model, my 2006 Grand Prix GT with 20K miles on it feels, like, way new. Not surprisingly, it's a fast, well-equipped sedan. White was not my first choice, but this thing was the perfect package and the best 'deal' on the lot. I'm still only partially employed, so 'deal' is relative. The fact is, I can't afford it. Which is why I flash a wicked grin every time I step on the gas.

Looking back, the oldest car I can remember our family having was a '78 Pontiac Bonneville, and it was white. I guess I've driven full circle now.

Familiar signs

There is a Michigan Ave. in Salt Lake. Not unique to this city, I realize, but I felt it photo worthy.

"If you're going to San Francisco..."

"...Be sure to overdress; the weather is not as warm as you might think..."

You'll recognize that as a classic song lyric. Either that, or my latest lesson in travel. Annie and I had a great time in SanFran last weekend. It was the first time in the city for both of us, and we got to celebrate her birthday while we were there. The weather was cloudy & foggy on Friday and Saturday, but we did the requisite trolly rides, pier tour, seafood eating, wine tasting, shopping in Union Square, and getting pedicures. WHAT?! Yes, it's true. My primary birthday gift to Annie was a simple concession: "Okay, I'll get a pedicure with you." She's convinced it's the greatest thing ever, and I have to admit, it was not awful.

It was also a chance for me to see some great friends, Brad and Megan, from Michigan. They recently moved to Foster City, south of SanFran, and it was their first time meeting Annie. Just 4 months ago, Brad and Megan lived above me at an apartment complex in Grand Rapids. Now look at us! They picked us up in the city Saturday around noon, and after taking a drive down Lombard Street (the winding, steep one), we headed out to HWY 1 and drove down through Half Moon Bay, and then over to their home in Foster City. It would have been a gorgeous drive if not for the fog and clouds, but fun nonetheless. Megan has provided her perspective on the weekend at her blog, here: http://www.xanga.com/theparisians

Annie and my pictures are here: http://picasaweb.google.com/sj.gingrich/SanFranTrip

THE END OF UNEMPLOYMENT UPDATE #1: I have a 3rd interview on Monday with a notable cookie company based in SLC for an assistant brand manager position. It's a famous brand, the founder was on the Today Show this morning, and you may have seen their franchise in a mall near you. Wish me luck!