Sleepless in New York

So, it's well past midnight in The Big Apple, and here I am down in the lobby of my hotel pounding away on a keyboard. I have to grab a taxi to La Guardia at 4 a.m. One might assume that staying up this late isn't the best idea. Well, "One" night be right, except for the fact that I got plenty of sleep earlier today, so my sleep clock is all messed up.

Well, I finished my New York Public Management Institute assessment today, and I think it went relatively well. My 1 p.m. session also had two Long Islanders in it, and everyone seemed relatively astonished that I had come all the way from Arizona to do this. Maybe that will help me in the process? In any case, I proceeded with my written test first, which I had an hour and 15 minutes for -- it took me about 50 minutes. I then took a break and popped down to my hotel room (the assessment took place in my hotel) and then headed back up for my oral exam. I also had an hour and 15 minutes to study for this. I must admit that it was kind of difficult, because I have a sore on my face and I have a sinus infection. But I did my best, gave a good presentation, and answered their questions the best I could.

Tomorrow I'm headed to San Antonio where I'll complete my Presidential Management Fellowship assessment. The process is a bit similar to the NYPMI, but has added elements like a group session. Plus, I'll get to see my wife!! I missed her so much my first night here. New York is an awesome city, but awful lonely if the person you care about most is 2,000 miles away (and in much better weather).

I must also give my wife a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY shout-out! I am so stupid though...I knew it was her birthday today (or, I guess yesterday) but in the heat of preparation and trying to see at least one sight (the Empire State Building) I didn't call her right away -- I waited until after the assessment, and I think I made her feel bad. I'M SORRY MRS. RONK! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I got you a nice little souvenir to bring to you so you can have another gift!

Well, I'm going to attempt to print my boarding passes for my flights again. I think ATA is great because they have friendly staff and cheap flights, but I don't like this codeshare with Southwest. Big people typically hate flying because they always get stuck with bad seats. I'm clearly trying to avoid that.

Until next time...here's a pic of me on top of the Empire State Building with Midtown, the Upper West Side and the Hudson River behind me...that nasty thing under my nose is impetigo...really gross...I mad that it's still there.