I wanted you to see the pictures from our holiday fun. I'll add more pictures as soon as my mom and aunt send me theirs. Enjoy! :)
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Father Knows Best
Late Saturday morning, I finally got around to packing and getting ready for my return trip home. As I made my first haul to my car, I said to my dad, "Do my tires look low?" He got out a gauge and checked the tires. He pulled out a ginormous air compressor and filled them up. He said, "You need to get that back tire checked out. It's low."
I told him I would do that when I get my oil changed, thinking all would be OK for a few days. I hit the road. I unpacked my car and went about doing laundry and trying to put up my suitcases and things (don't be too proud of me - the suitcases and other things I brought back are strategically placed and not put up).
Then, this afternoon, I went to work. I went out for some dinner and was thinking something didn't feel right about my car. I got out and noticed that rear tire dad warned me about was flat! I walked inside and found two kind friends to take pity on me. They changed my tire in minutes! In fact, if I had to do it, I would probably still be out in the parking lot trying to figure out how to do it. So as soon as I wake up Monday, I will have to go get the tire checked out. We found a nail in it, but it's not on the side. Hopefully it can be patched and doesn't need to be replaced. ARGH.
I told him I would do that when I get my oil changed, thinking all would be OK for a few days. I hit the road. I unpacked my car and went about doing laundry and trying to put up my suitcases and things (don't be too proud of me - the suitcases and other things I brought back are strategically placed and not put up).
Then, this afternoon, I went to work. I went out for some dinner and was thinking something didn't feel right about my car. I got out and noticed that rear tire dad warned me about was flat! I walked inside and found two kind friends to take pity on me. They changed my tire in minutes! In fact, if I had to do it, I would probably still be out in the parking lot trying to figure out how to do it. So as soon as I wake up Monday, I will have to go get the tire checked out. We found a nail in it, but it's not on the side. Hopefully it can be patched and doesn't need to be replaced. ARGH.
Christmas Day
I woke up Christmas morning to a nice, warm breakfast. You should know that it's hard for me to eat something as soon as I roll out of bed. However, since my parents wake up before the sun rises, they're ready to go by nine (this is apparently what happens when you get old).
My brother ate with us. I accused my dad of wearing cranky pants, which made it even more difficult for him to be cranky (he doesn't like for us to be right). Then, we headed to the living room for some present opening. As the gifts were sorted, we noticed my dad had apparently been on Santa's nice list - he had more gifts than all of us. In fact, he had so many packages, we made him open two for every one we opened! That certainly made him change out of his cranky pants!
I scored some good stuff - gift cards, perfume, more gift cards. I felt bad that the only gifts I bought were of the literary kind (my only stop had been Borders). I will make it up to my incredibly generous family before the next holiday!
I took a Christmas nap (another tradition in our family). Then, we loaded up and went out to the Grandparents. I think my Grandmother may have been taught a little lesson. She told my Grandfather she wanted hair pins and Q-Tips for Christmas. That's what she got. You'd think after being married nearly 60 years, she'd know better!
Us four cousins were confined to a small wooden table outside. We decided it was probably better than being in at the adult table anyway. We ate, then went back to my parents house for some Wii play. We were being good kids until my parents came home.
Mom decided we should be drinking and proceeded to play bartender. There was a whole lot of rocking going on. And boozing. And game play. This went on for hours until my cousins got a call from their mother stating their grandparents would like to see them on Christmas.
Party over.
It was beddy-bye time for me. I don't know why, but every time I stay at my parents, I want to sleep. I could fall asleep before 10:00 and sleep for 12 hours or more. It's not that the bed is that comfortable. I usually toss and turn until I get to a relaxed state. Perhaps there's some carbon monoxide creeping into the house. I don't know. Whatever it is, I get sleepy fast.
My brother ate with us. I accused my dad of wearing cranky pants, which made it even more difficult for him to be cranky (he doesn't like for us to be right). Then, we headed to the living room for some present opening. As the gifts were sorted, we noticed my dad had apparently been on Santa's nice list - he had more gifts than all of us. In fact, he had so many packages, we made him open two for every one we opened! That certainly made him change out of his cranky pants!
I scored some good stuff - gift cards, perfume, more gift cards. I felt bad that the only gifts I bought were of the literary kind (my only stop had been Borders). I will make it up to my incredibly generous family before the next holiday!
I took a Christmas nap (another tradition in our family). Then, we loaded up and went out to the Grandparents. I think my Grandmother may have been taught a little lesson. She told my Grandfather she wanted hair pins and Q-Tips for Christmas. That's what she got. You'd think after being married nearly 60 years, she'd know better!
Us four cousins were confined to a small wooden table outside. We decided it was probably better than being in at the adult table anyway. We ate, then went back to my parents house for some Wii play. We were being good kids until my parents came home.
Mom decided we should be drinking and proceeded to play bartender. There was a whole lot of rocking going on. And boozing. And game play. This went on for hours until my cousins got a call from their mother stating their grandparents would like to see them on Christmas.
Party over.
It was beddy-bye time for me. I don't know why, but every time I stay at my parents, I want to sleep. I could fall asleep before 10:00 and sleep for 12 hours or more. It's not that the bed is that comfortable. I usually toss and turn until I get to a relaxed state. Perhaps there's some carbon monoxide creeping into the house. I don't know. Whatever it is, I get sleepy fast.
Christmas Eve
I know I'm a few days late, but I did not get out my laptop the entire time I was home for the holidays. Now, I have some time to update you on my relatively Grinch-free trip.
I drove home Wednesday, my car loaded with the few gifts I bought, my suitcases, Charley and Chaplin. Oh, and Mom insisted I bring the Wii (she's a fan of Guitar Hero, Dad prefers Wii Sports - especially bowling). Packing was not fun. It was torture. But still, I knew I had to do it - even if it meant not getting on the road until noon.
I pulled up at my parents house mid-afternoon. Charley was thrilled to be out of the car. I carried Chaplin inside in the carrier, thinking my parents dog would see him and be over it. Instead, the cat freaked out, growling and hissing. I let him out in my bedroom and he hid under the bed. That became his main hideout, with occasional trips to the bathroom to eat or do his business.
By 5:30, I was hungry. I knew that if I didn't con Mom into making something, we'd have to eat the dreaded Sloppy Joe. I probably wouldn't mind that meal (a tradition on my Mom's side of the family despite recent protests - including a chili cheese dog intrusion one year). I have just decided I don't like them anymore. It's weird, I know.
Our bellies full of pork chops, we headed to my uncle's house. DISCLAIMER: My family likes to make our gatherings "spirited." We are not alcoholics. Don't misinterpret that here. The first thing we do is grab a beer and head outside. Despite the calendar saying "winter," South Texas decided to warm it up. It was in the upper 60s - not too warm, not too cold. I kept thinking how glad I was I didn't just pack sweaters! After visiting for about an hour or so, catching up with my cousins that I'm close in age to we were summoned inside. It was present time!
In case you don't know, my Grandmother is a regifter and there's not always a method to her selections. The cousins stuck together, sitting in a row, waiting for our prize. We were placing bets as to who would get the worst prize. Then, we noticed ours were about the same size. I opened mine first. Not a regift, but a BRAND NEW gift! Here I am opening mine with my uncle (right) and brother (left) watching.
Road safety kits, chosen by Grandfather at Sears. My brother and my three male cousins all opened theirs with the same reaction: "Oh. Thanks." Well, not all the same. The youngest one to get it is currently sans vehicle.
What's interesting about these kits is a few years ago, Grandfather made us accident kits. A big plastic bag contained a sheet of paper with information we'd need to get if we were in a crash. It had a pencil and digital camera. Not the cheeriest gift. Oh, and those digital cameras would surely melt in the glove compartment.
The kits are handy, though we'll need to put batteries in them for the flashlights.
Oh, and one more fun moment: my aunt had a package that was addressed to the family. After it was opened, she learned the card was to the family. The shiny nightgown was for my aunt. Still, we made my cousin put it on.
After the packages were unwrapped, we returned to my parents' house. We stayed up a little while, then called it a night. Santa was on his way.
I drove home Wednesday, my car loaded with the few gifts I bought, my suitcases, Charley and Chaplin. Oh, and Mom insisted I bring the Wii (she's a fan of Guitar Hero, Dad prefers Wii Sports - especially bowling). Packing was not fun. It was torture. But still, I knew I had to do it - even if it meant not getting on the road until noon.
I pulled up at my parents house mid-afternoon. Charley was thrilled to be out of the car. I carried Chaplin inside in the carrier, thinking my parents dog would see him and be over it. Instead, the cat freaked out, growling and hissing. I let him out in my bedroom and he hid under the bed. That became his main hideout, with occasional trips to the bathroom to eat or do his business.
By 5:30, I was hungry. I knew that if I didn't con Mom into making something, we'd have to eat the dreaded Sloppy Joe. I probably wouldn't mind that meal (a tradition on my Mom's side of the family despite recent protests - including a chili cheese dog intrusion one year). I have just decided I don't like them anymore. It's weird, I know.
Our bellies full of pork chops, we headed to my uncle's house. DISCLAIMER: My family likes to make our gatherings "spirited." We are not alcoholics. Don't misinterpret that here. The first thing we do is grab a beer and head outside. Despite the calendar saying "winter," South Texas decided to warm it up. It was in the upper 60s - not too warm, not too cold. I kept thinking how glad I was I didn't just pack sweaters! After visiting for about an hour or so, catching up with my cousins that I'm close in age to we were summoned inside. It was present time!
In case you don't know, my Grandmother is a regifter and there's not always a method to her selections. The cousins stuck together, sitting in a row, waiting for our prize. We were placing bets as to who would get the worst prize. Then, we noticed ours were about the same size. I opened mine first. Not a regift, but a BRAND NEW gift! Here I am opening mine with my uncle (right) and brother (left) watching.
Road safety kits, chosen by Grandfather at Sears. My brother and my three male cousins all opened theirs with the same reaction: "Oh. Thanks." Well, not all the same. The youngest one to get it is currently sans vehicle.What's interesting about these kits is a few years ago, Grandfather made us accident kits. A big plastic bag contained a sheet of paper with information we'd need to get if we were in a crash. It had a pencil and digital camera. Not the cheeriest gift. Oh, and those digital cameras would surely melt in the glove compartment.
The kits are handy, though we'll need to put batteries in them for the flashlights.
Oh, and one more fun moment: my aunt had a package that was addressed to the family. After it was opened, she learned the card was to the family. The shiny nightgown was for my aunt. Still, we made my cousin put it on.
After the packages were unwrapped, we returned to my parents' house. We stayed up a little while, then called it a night. Santa was on his way.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Bye, Bye Video Cassette Tapes
I cannot believe I'm seeing these clunky things go extinct! I have a drawer full of them! When I moved to San Antonio, I did ditch most of my video tapes (and was incredibly disappointed in how little Half Price Books paid me for them). I have since replaced most of those movies with DVDs. But, thanks to the DVR, I no longer need to record my favorite shows on anything else.
Still, there is something about the video tape that makes me think of all the movies I watched in my, ahem, younger days. I seem to remember one of the first rental choices I made being "Purple Rain." I'm not sure my mother had any idea what it was about - so don't judge her. I'm sure I made some perfectly reasonable argument for it with my 10-year-old brain.
After that, many more movies were popped in that giant VCR. It, like the rest of technology, shrunk. But the idea of being able to record anything on TV - it was so exciting!
I should have known things would change for me when my combo DVD/VCR started rejecting video tapes. Call me naive, I just never thought the day would come when I wouldn't be able to find a tape! Is this what it was like when records went away? I don't remember that.
Anyhow - so long video tape! You served us well! This story has a lovely look back at our times together.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Misadeventures in Baking
If you've been following my blog, you know that I have been desperately searching for my holiday spirit. This weekend was my final push. Julie and I went to see "Four Christmases" for some holiday inspiration. It was funny. And it made me a little anxious about going home for Christmas. While I don't have all those families to see, the one I do have is all kinds of crazy (but I am sure I will have more on that by the week's end). In fact, I bought a few gifts Saturday. See? I'm trying!
On my way home, I stopped to pick up vanilla, which I had forgotten at the store the weekend before. I decided baking some cookies would really get me excited about Christmas. Sunday, I got out all the ingredients, turned on the oven and started making the cookie dough. When I dumped in the white chocolate chips, I thought something was off. They weren't blending into the dough like they're supposed to. I tried to spoon the dough onto the baking tray and everything fell apart. I had to stick my hands into the dough, mold it into balls and put them on the tray. Hmm, I thought. This isn't right.
Then, I took the cookies out. When they came out of the oven, they weren't soft at all. I put them in a container and set about putting more cookies in the oven. I was curious about the cookies, so I took a bite.
It was rock hard. It fell apart. It was NOT good. Near tears, I dumped everything into the trash. I know it's been a while since I've made cookies (likely since last Christmas). But COME ON! How can I screw that up? Clearly I left something out or added too much of something. It was enough to make me say BAH HUMBUG. I guess it just wasn't meant to be. I am sad. Things will get better. I just have to hope my family made some cookies so I can put those awful tasting things behind me.
On my way home, I stopped to pick up vanilla, which I had forgotten at the store the weekend before. I decided baking some cookies would really get me excited about Christmas. Sunday, I got out all the ingredients, turned on the oven and started making the cookie dough. When I dumped in the white chocolate chips, I thought something was off. They weren't blending into the dough like they're supposed to. I tried to spoon the dough onto the baking tray and everything fell apart. I had to stick my hands into the dough, mold it into balls and put them on the tray. Hmm, I thought. This isn't right.
Then, I took the cookies out. When they came out of the oven, they weren't soft at all. I put them in a container and set about putting more cookies in the oven. I was curious about the cookies, so I took a bite.
It was rock hard. It fell apart. It was NOT good. Near tears, I dumped everything into the trash. I know it's been a while since I've made cookies (likely since last Christmas). But COME ON! How can I screw that up? Clearly I left something out or added too much of something. It was enough to make me say BAH HUMBUG. I guess it just wasn't meant to be. I am sad. Things will get better. I just have to hope my family made some cookies so I can put those awful tasting things behind me.
Friday, December 19, 2008
2008 In Review
The fine folks at Mental Floss posed these questions and I figured I'd answer them here. Feel free to give your response in the comments section!
1. What’s the most interesting book or article you read in 2008?
Since they are the only books I actually completed this year, I'm going to have to say the "Twilight" series. I am ashamed to say I have started two others but not finished them.
2. What’s the best food you tried for the first time in 2008?
I'm going to say the Bama Roll at Kona Grill.
3. What prominent figure’s death upset you the most in 2008?
I guess it has to be Heath Ledger. He was young. He was The Joker. It was totally unexpected. Seeing him in movies now is eerie.
1. What’s the most interesting book or article you read in 2008?
Since they are the only books I actually completed this year, I'm going to have to say the "Twilight" series. I am ashamed to say I have started two others but not finished them.
2. What’s the best food you tried for the first time in 2008?
I'm going to say the Bama Roll at Kona Grill.
3. What prominent figure’s death upset you the most in 2008?
I guess it has to be Heath Ledger. He was young. He was The Joker. It was totally unexpected. Seeing him in movies now is eerie.
4. What’s the most unexpected way the economic crisis affected you in 2008?
Thanks to my Mom's good advice, my 401k actually went up!
5. What’s a new hobby you picked up in 2008?
The wii. I love it! I feel like a kid, but it is so much fun!
6. When you look back at 2008 five years from now, what will be the first thing that comes to mind?
It's the year I got Chaplin, my crazy kitten. Yes, he's locked me out of the house, terrorized Charlie and wakes me up in the middle of the night at least once, but he's cute. And he can be cuddly. So I'll keep him - for now.
7. And I’ll end this batch of questions the same way I did last year: “Let’s make Week-After-Christmas Resolutions. Something you vow to start doing next Friday, but can give up on January 1st.” What’s yours?
I'm going to resolve to make a genuine effort to read all those books on my nightstand. I think that's a good start. Stay tuned to the blog to see what else I try to tackle in 2009!UPDATE: My Holiday Spirit
I think my spirit may be coming back to me. Maybe it's the cards or gifts I've received, or maybe it's the fact that Christmas is just days away.
Family, friends - don't get too excited. I still have to shake enough spirit into me to get me to do some shopping. Here's hoping I get to everyone on my list in the next couple of days!
Family, friends - don't get too excited. I still have to shake enough spirit into me to get me to do some shopping. Here's hoping I get to everyone on my list in the next couple of days!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
And it's not Bono.
My holiday spirit continues to elude me. I have watched more holiday movies. I have listened to more Christmas music. I've half-smiled at the holiday cards I've already received. Still - I got NOTHING.
I haven't bought cards to send. I haven't bought a single gift. Wait - that's not true. I have one that I bought a few months ago. That's it.
So, friends and family, don't expect much from me. If my spirit suddenly shows up, I will be happy (even if it means braving the crowded stores to shop). Be patient with me. If it doesn't show up, I promise I'll get around to getting you a gift. Consider this a fair notice: I may have to give out and I.O.U. this holiday season.
Stay tuned...
My holiday spirit continues to elude me. I have watched more holiday movies. I have listened to more Christmas music. I've half-smiled at the holiday cards I've already received. Still - I got NOTHING.
I haven't bought cards to send. I haven't bought a single gift. Wait - that's not true. I have one that I bought a few months ago. That's it.
So, friends and family, don't expect much from me. If my spirit suddenly shows up, I will be happy (even if it means braving the crowded stores to shop). Be patient with me. If it doesn't show up, I promise I'll get around to getting you a gift. Consider this a fair notice: I may have to give out and I.O.U. this holiday season.
Stay tuned...
Friday, December 12, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
How I Spent My Night Off
Realizing the year was nearly up, I figured I should take my personal day today, since there really wasn't time to take it before the year was up. I lounged about, did some reading, watched a little TV and waited for my mom to get here. We ducked outside for a few minutes before setting off for dinner and some shopping. She pointed out Chaplin, jumping up and touching the sliding glass door to get my attention. Then, with Charley at the door, I went to open it.
Nothing.
No budge.
Chaplin, in his jumping fits, had locked us out. Now, I'm a compulsive door locker, so the front door was locked. I have not re-set the keypad on the garage door. Not that that would matter, since the door inside from the garage is locked. I tried to lift and slide the door, it would move. Chaplin lounged about inside and I told him I was going to beat the you-know-what out of him as soon as I could get in.
We had no cell phones. No keys. Oh, and I had no shoes. Mom suggested we get the cop next door to help us. I thought my friends, The Gerbers, had a spare key. I was angry. I thought it would be a good idea to walk there - in my socked feet. So off we went.
We walked a few blocks away and I felt a little less angry and a little more scared that my backup plan wouldn't work. The closer we got, the more afraid I was that I would ring the bell and the dog would bark, leaving us to walk back with no hope. Luckily, I caught Anne and her neighbor just as they were about to leave. Problem: no key. I called a locksmith who met us in 20 minutes. We got a ride back to the house. Poor Charley had been in the backyard by himself. he was cold. He was angry. So was I, buddy. So was I.
The locksmith showed up in a kidnapper van. The guy (who had a very thick accent I couldn't place) and what appeared to be his brother both had accents. Within 3 minutes, they had my front door open. My emergency cost $120. While he filled out the receipt, I asked where he was from. He said Israel. The paranoid girl in my head said, "Great. He's probably some Israeli military assassin who will break into my home, abduct me in his kidnapper van full of mystery tools and kill me without a trace." I did not express such concern to the locksmith. I did make sure to point out that my alarm is always set, but since the kitten locked us out, at least we didn't have that to pierce our eardrums. He smiled and shook his head. Awesome. Now he thinks I'm crazy. Well, I am, but still...
We left (alarm set, keys in hand). I came back. I growled at the cat. I spanked him (not too hard - promise). He had no idea why I did that. Charley was a little afraid to go back in the backyard again. So now, I have the following on my "to do" list this weekend:
There you have it. Not at all the way I wanted to spend my evening. Certainly not how I wanted to spend $120!
Nothing.
No budge.
Chaplin, in his jumping fits, had locked us out. Now, I'm a compulsive door locker, so the front door was locked. I have not re-set the keypad on the garage door. Not that that would matter, since the door inside from the garage is locked. I tried to lift and slide the door, it would move. Chaplin lounged about inside and I told him I was going to beat the you-know-what out of him as soon as I could get in.
We had no cell phones. No keys. Oh, and I had no shoes. Mom suggested we get the cop next door to help us. I thought my friends, The Gerbers, had a spare key. I was angry. I thought it would be a good idea to walk there - in my socked feet. So off we went.
We walked a few blocks away and I felt a little less angry and a little more scared that my backup plan wouldn't work. The closer we got, the more afraid I was that I would ring the bell and the dog would bark, leaving us to walk back with no hope. Luckily, I caught Anne and her neighbor just as they were about to leave. Problem: no key. I called a locksmith who met us in 20 minutes. We got a ride back to the house. Poor Charley had been in the backyard by himself. he was cold. He was angry. So was I, buddy. So was I.
The locksmith showed up in a kidnapper van. The guy (who had a very thick accent I couldn't place) and what appeared to be his brother both had accents. Within 3 minutes, they had my front door open. My emergency cost $120. While he filled out the receipt, I asked where he was from. He said Israel. The paranoid girl in my head said, "Great. He's probably some Israeli military assassin who will break into my home, abduct me in his kidnapper van full of mystery tools and kill me without a trace." I did not express such concern to the locksmith. I did make sure to point out that my alarm is always set, but since the kitten locked us out, at least we didn't have that to pierce our eardrums. He smiled and shook his head. Awesome. Now he thinks I'm crazy. Well, I am, but still...
We left (alarm set, keys in hand). I came back. I growled at the cat. I spanked him (not too hard - promise). He had no idea why I did that. Charley was a little afraid to go back in the backyard again. So now, I have the following on my "to do" list this weekend:
- Program code for garage
- Make extra copies of house keys
- Stash them around in place(s) where I'm able to get to them without much trouble
- Kitten for sale?
There you have it. Not at all the way I wanted to spend my evening. Certainly not how I wanted to spend $120!
When Adults Act Like Children
I'm starting this recurring segment about, you guessed it, adults acting like kids. Now, I'm not exactly a fun hater, but I think there are some things children do that adults do not. My first example: hand washing.
Since I was little, I was taught to stick my hands under the water, lather up, rinse, dry. It's not that difficult. Or is it?
I've noticed whether it's at the movies, the mall or work, there are more ladies who skip right past the sink or think dunking their hands under the faucet for two seconds is sufficient. What is WRONG, people?
Here's the deal. You should ALWAYS wash your hands after doing your business. If your own personal hygiene is not a good excuse, think about mine - and everyone else's! Think of it this way: you do the stuff in the stall, don't wash, then open the door. You've put your cooties on the door handle. Then, you reach in your wallet and pay cash for a cup of coffee, perhaps a pastry. This is disgusting on two counts: one, your contaminated cash is sitting in a register, making the other bills dirty and two, you're going to eat with that hand that hasn't been washed! You might as well just dunk your pastry in the potty! Perhaps you don't stop for a snack. Maybe you meet some clients or someone new. What do you do? Shake hands. Now, you've passed your nasties onto innocent people. SICKO.
Why does this bother me? Not because I'm starting to become a germophobe, but because it's cold and flu season. I've had the cold, don't want the flu. I wash my hands plenty. But it's some of you who act like the soap will melt the flesh right off your hands that are the germinators. Until I know you're a hand washer - and I have to see it on a regular basis without any prompting - I won't be shaking hands.
Oh, and if you think I'm the only one who feels this way, you should check this out by a group of people who call themselves the Centers for Disease Control.
Since I was little, I was taught to stick my hands under the water, lather up, rinse, dry. It's not that difficult. Or is it?I've noticed whether it's at the movies, the mall or work, there are more ladies who skip right past the sink or think dunking their hands under the faucet for two seconds is sufficient. What is WRONG, people?
Here's the deal. You should ALWAYS wash your hands after doing your business. If your own personal hygiene is not a good excuse, think about mine - and everyone else's! Think of it this way: you do the stuff in the stall, don't wash, then open the door. You've put your cooties on the door handle. Then, you reach in your wallet and pay cash for a cup of coffee, perhaps a pastry. This is disgusting on two counts: one, your contaminated cash is sitting in a register, making the other bills dirty and two, you're going to eat with that hand that hasn't been washed! You might as well just dunk your pastry in the potty! Perhaps you don't stop for a snack. Maybe you meet some clients or someone new. What do you do? Shake hands. Now, you've passed your nasties onto innocent people. SICKO.
Why does this bother me? Not because I'm starting to become a germophobe, but because it's cold and flu season. I've had the cold, don't want the flu. I wash my hands plenty. But it's some of you who act like the soap will melt the flesh right off your hands that are the germinators. Until I know you're a hand washer - and I have to see it on a regular basis without any prompting - I won't be shaking hands.
Oh, and if you think I'm the only one who feels this way, you should check this out by a group of people who call themselves the Centers for Disease Control.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Suck It Oil Companies, Pt. 7
It's been a while since I started this little feature. I started making note of gas prices when they were $3.65. The highest price I paid was $3.93. As I watched the price leap with every drop of fuel, it made me angry. It also made me glad I was not cruising around in a gas guzzler!
So imagine my joy when I filled up the other day.
Yep. $1.63! I think that's better than my title! It's like giving the middle finger to those companies that have had record profits (and no doubt planned on giving their big bosses huge bonuses before the feds started saying, "Not so fast...")! And it's gets better...
One oil exec is predicting gas around $1 a gallon next year! YAY!
I'm not discontinuing this little feature because, as my dad says, "My Mama did raise a fool, but I have a brother." That's some country thing. Anywho, I understand that just like the prices climbed this year, they'll climb again. I just hope it's not for a while. And I REALLY hope none of those oil companies show up on The Hill with their hands out. They've been raking in the money for years. If they haven't put it to good use, I say the heck with them! And bring on the fuel-friendly vehicles!
So imagine my joy when I filled up the other day.
Yep. $1.63! I think that's better than my title! It's like giving the middle finger to those companies that have had record profits (and no doubt planned on giving their big bosses huge bonuses before the feds started saying, "Not so fast...")! And it's gets better...One oil exec is predicting gas around $1 a gallon next year! YAY!
I'm not discontinuing this little feature because, as my dad says, "My Mama did raise a fool, but I have a brother." That's some country thing. Anywho, I understand that just like the prices climbed this year, they'll climb again. I just hope it's not for a while. And I REALLY hope none of those oil companies show up on The Hill with their hands out. They've been raking in the money for years. If they haven't put it to good use, I say the heck with them! And bring on the fuel-friendly vehicles!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
'Tis The Season
No, I haven't found my holiday spirit.
But what I have found is a case of the holidays at work. Sounds cheery, right?
WRONG. It's BAD.
While you're out shopping, trimming the tree, baking cookies (sneak some into our newsroom, will ya?), we're working. Trying to find news. It's like the never ending scavenger hunt! Now, I like good news. I'm going to let you in on a little news secret: it's the bad news that's good news to us. I'm not just talking about car crashes, shootings, stabbings and other assorted violence. I'm talking about ordinary folk's bad luck: lawn decorations stolen, presents stolen, homes burning down - get my drift?
I'd love a good scandal - or anything else that remotely resembles news. It would make starting the newscast so much easier. But without someone having a little bad luck, and let's face it - that's what news is, we're bored. And frustrated. And eventually, cranky. No amount of cookies can fix that.
So until I survive the next five weeks, I'll be playing this while secretly hoping people aren't playing along at home during my newscast.
Look at that! Holiday optimism! Maybe I'll find my spirit after all!!
But what I have found is a case of the holidays at work. Sounds cheery, right?
WRONG. It's BAD.
While you're out shopping, trimming the tree, baking cookies (sneak some into our newsroom, will ya?), we're working. Trying to find news. It's like the never ending scavenger hunt! Now, I like good news. I'm going to let you in on a little news secret: it's the bad news that's good news to us. I'm not just talking about car crashes, shootings, stabbings and other assorted violence. I'm talking about ordinary folk's bad luck: lawn decorations stolen, presents stolen, homes burning down - get my drift?
I'd love a good scandal - or anything else that remotely resembles news. It would make starting the newscast so much easier. But without someone having a little bad luck, and let's face it - that's what news is, we're bored. And frustrated. And eventually, cranky. No amount of cookies can fix that.
So until I survive the next five weeks, I'll be playing this while secretly hoping people aren't playing along at home during my newscast.
Look at that! Holiday optimism! Maybe I'll find my spirit after all!!
Monday, December 1, 2008
For Those Of You To Lazy To Search For It...
Here's webisode #2!
You can find webisode #1 by scrolling down the page.
You can find webisode #1 by scrolling down the page.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Have You Seen My Holiday Spirit???
I have tried and tried to find my holiday spirit these last few days. It has gone AWOL.
Because this is my kitten's first Christmas, I've decided not to get a tree. Plus, the thought of getting the tree in the stand all by myself - well, let's just say there would be a whole lot of expletives flying. I did put up a tree last year, my first in my new house. See?
It smelled lovely! My gold and bronze ornaments glowed with my white twinkly lights. Charley thought the tree water was some special treat. But I just know Chaplin would get into the tree and knock it down. I cannot imagine what will happen once I start shopping and wrapping presents. I have no doubt he will be tearing open presents. Maybe I'll use bags this year.
I do have a small tree made entirely of red ornaments and lights that I'll probably put out. But, that will be it. I think. I noticed my poinsettia from last year died. I'm waiting for my Christmas cactus to bloom (hopefully the somewhat cooler weather will make that happen).
I tried to bring out the holiday spirit by adding holiday music to the rotation on my iPod (Josh, my carpool partner, will probably not be happy with that). I even watched three of my favorite holiday movies this weekend, Elf on Friday, Christmas Vacation on Saturday and Love Actually on Friday. While I enjoyed them for what seems like the millionth time, I'm just not excited about Christmas. And that stinks! It's my favorite holiday! What has happened to me?
If you've seen my holiday spirit, will you kindly send it my way? Maybe it'll take those holiday cards filling my mailbox that will do the trick. Maybe some fudge (hint hint). Maybe I'll just wake up one day and not be annoyed by the phrase "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas." Go ahead and sing it. It's just making me roll my eyes.
I'm hoping my spirit finds me soon. I don't like feeling all Grinch-like.
Because this is my kitten's first Christmas, I've decided not to get a tree. Plus, the thought of getting the tree in the stand all by myself - well, let's just say there would be a whole lot of expletives flying. I did put up a tree last year, my first in my new house. See?
It smelled lovely! My gold and bronze ornaments glowed with my white twinkly lights. Charley thought the tree water was some special treat. But I just know Chaplin would get into the tree and knock it down. I cannot imagine what will happen once I start shopping and wrapping presents. I have no doubt he will be tearing open presents. Maybe I'll use bags this year.I do have a small tree made entirely of red ornaments and lights that I'll probably put out. But, that will be it. I think. I noticed my poinsettia from last year died. I'm waiting for my Christmas cactus to bloom (hopefully the somewhat cooler weather will make that happen).
I tried to bring out the holiday spirit by adding holiday music to the rotation on my iPod (Josh, my carpool partner, will probably not be happy with that). I even watched three of my favorite holiday movies this weekend, Elf on Friday, Christmas Vacation on Saturday and Love Actually on Friday. While I enjoyed them for what seems like the millionth time, I'm just not excited about Christmas. And that stinks! It's my favorite holiday! What has happened to me?
If you've seen my holiday spirit, will you kindly send it my way? Maybe it'll take those holiday cards filling my mailbox that will do the trick. Maybe some fudge (hint hint). Maybe I'll just wake up one day and not be annoyed by the phrase "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas." Go ahead and sing it. It's just making me roll my eyes.
I'm hoping my spirit finds me soon. I don't like feeling all Grinch-like.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Why I'm Thankful
I know this post is being written a few days after Thanksgiving, but it's never too late to be thankful. Here goes.
I'm thankful for my family, even if we don't see each other as often as we should. From my parents who keep going off and gambling away my inheritance, to my brother who prefers to tell me why he hates things - and doesn't really give a reason other than "I just don't like it." There are also my crazy grandparents who think they have a solution to everything - whether it's grandpa's advice to grandma's gifts she's dug out of one of the off-limits rooms in her house. I have lots of aunts, uncles and cousins I don't get to see very often. Some are perfectly normal and fun, others are weird, whiny and clingy. Still, they're family - gotta love 'em.
I'm thankful for my little furkids. They greet me when I come home from work every night. They let me know when they need food or a snack. They let me know when they want to play or go for a walk. They also keep me from getting 8 hours of consecutive sleep (though I do go back to sleep once Charley has gone outside to take care of business).
I'm thankful for my friends. I only wish I could see everyone more! Schedules tend to keep us apart, though we do keep in touch either on the phone or online. I love that even if we don't see each other every day, our conversations pick right up like it hasn't been weeks or even (gasp) months.
I'm thankful for work. Yes, it gets in the way of a whole lot of fun, but in these times, I'm glad to have a job. Is it my dream job? No. But if I had that, what would I work toward? Oh, and it'll likely take me winning the lottery to get that dream job.
But each Thanksgiving, I'm a little more, well, thankful that history does not repeat itself. Forgive this part of the post if you've heard the story.
Years ago, I was headed to work on Thanksgiving Day. I was taking my exit when I saw this guy standing in the middle of the ramp lane. I started to break even more, then I honked at him. I swerved to the right, he jumped that way. I swerved to the left, he jumped that way. Then, I closed my eyes and came to a complete stop. He had rolled onto my hood and smashed into my windshield. I was doing about 20-25 mph when I hit him. I parked the car, then jumped out saying, "Ohmygodohmygodohmygod! Sir, are you OK?" My pulse was racing, my hands were shaking as I reached out to him. He stood up and said, "Yeah, I'm OK. You got any money." Something changed in my head. Suddenly, I was ANGRY. "No, I don't have any money!" Homeless guy responds, "Can I get a ride?" Even angrier, I say, "NO! I'M NOT TAKING YOU ANYWHERE!" Within a few minutes, what felt like the entire police department showed up to handle my little crash. I looked at my car - where the guy hit the windshield it was clear, but everything else around it spider webbed out. The hood was dented with the guy's imprint. And then, my station shows up to shoot the accident, not knowing I was involved. Turns out, the homeless guy was one of a group who was running a little scam. They get hit by cars, people usually pay them off, and they go about their bumming. The bum was taken to the hospital just to make sure he didn't have a concussion. He was also given a ticket for illegally crossing the highway (which he didn't pay which meant there was a warrant for his arrest, which then meant he got three hots and a cot and the jail - he wins). I manage to drive to work. I walk into the newsroom. The boss is there. He says, "OOOH! You're late!" I explain what happened. He says, "Well, you need to get out the door. You've got to get to the shelters to cover the dinners." "Are you serious?" I ask. He assures me that he is. I get in the car with my photographer. We show up at one shelter. A homeless guy starts walking at us shouting, "You guys only show up for stuff like this. You don't care about us any other day of the year." Like a possessed woman, I respond with, "If you know what's good for you, you won't take another step towards us." After that, we went and got video and interviews of the homeless and needy getting their free meals. We even sat down and ate with some of them. At the end of the day, the last thing I wanted to do was drive home. But I did. I was a little more grateful for what I had. And each year that I don't bump a bum, I am a little happier. Not just because I haven't had it happen again, but because I know how good I have it.
And I wonder if that same dude is running his scam in Corpus Christi or some place else?
I'm thankful for my family, even if we don't see each other as often as we should. From my parents who keep going off and gambling away my inheritance, to my brother who prefers to tell me why he hates things - and doesn't really give a reason other than "I just don't like it." There are also my crazy grandparents who think they have a solution to everything - whether it's grandpa's advice to grandma's gifts she's dug out of one of the off-limits rooms in her house. I have lots of aunts, uncles and cousins I don't get to see very often. Some are perfectly normal and fun, others are weird, whiny and clingy. Still, they're family - gotta love 'em.
I'm thankful for my little furkids. They greet me when I come home from work every night. They let me know when they need food or a snack. They let me know when they want to play or go for a walk. They also keep me from getting 8 hours of consecutive sleep (though I do go back to sleep once Charley has gone outside to take care of business).
I'm thankful for my friends. I only wish I could see everyone more! Schedules tend to keep us apart, though we do keep in touch either on the phone or online. I love that even if we don't see each other every day, our conversations pick right up like it hasn't been weeks or even (gasp) months.
I'm thankful for work. Yes, it gets in the way of a whole lot of fun, but in these times, I'm glad to have a job. Is it my dream job? No. But if I had that, what would I work toward? Oh, and it'll likely take me winning the lottery to get that dream job.
But each Thanksgiving, I'm a little more, well, thankful that history does not repeat itself. Forgive this part of the post if you've heard the story.
Years ago, I was headed to work on Thanksgiving Day. I was taking my exit when I saw this guy standing in the middle of the ramp lane. I started to break even more, then I honked at him. I swerved to the right, he jumped that way. I swerved to the left, he jumped that way. Then, I closed my eyes and came to a complete stop. He had rolled onto my hood and smashed into my windshield. I was doing about 20-25 mph when I hit him. I parked the car, then jumped out saying, "Ohmygodohmygodohmygod! Sir, are you OK?" My pulse was racing, my hands were shaking as I reached out to him. He stood up and said, "Yeah, I'm OK. You got any money." Something changed in my head. Suddenly, I was ANGRY. "No, I don't have any money!" Homeless guy responds, "Can I get a ride?" Even angrier, I say, "NO! I'M NOT TAKING YOU ANYWHERE!" Within a few minutes, what felt like the entire police department showed up to handle my little crash. I looked at my car - where the guy hit the windshield it was clear, but everything else around it spider webbed out. The hood was dented with the guy's imprint. And then, my station shows up to shoot the accident, not knowing I was involved. Turns out, the homeless guy was one of a group who was running a little scam. They get hit by cars, people usually pay them off, and they go about their bumming. The bum was taken to the hospital just to make sure he didn't have a concussion. He was also given a ticket for illegally crossing the highway (which he didn't pay which meant there was a warrant for his arrest, which then meant he got three hots and a cot and the jail - he wins). I manage to drive to work. I walk into the newsroom. The boss is there. He says, "OOOH! You're late!" I explain what happened. He says, "Well, you need to get out the door. You've got to get to the shelters to cover the dinners." "Are you serious?" I ask. He assures me that he is. I get in the car with my photographer. We show up at one shelter. A homeless guy starts walking at us shouting, "You guys only show up for stuff like this. You don't care about us any other day of the year." Like a possessed woman, I respond with, "If you know what's good for you, you won't take another step towards us." After that, we went and got video and interviews of the homeless and needy getting their free meals. We even sat down and ate with some of them. At the end of the day, the last thing I wanted to do was drive home. But I did. I was a little more grateful for what I had. And each year that I don't bump a bum, I am a little happier. Not just because I haven't had it happen again, but because I know how good I have it.
And I wonder if that same dude is running his scam in Corpus Christi or some place else?
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
I See Weird People
Everywhere I go, I bump into strangers.
Not just people I don't know. I'm talking STRANGERS. Weirdos. Freaks.
I was going through a pile of stuff while elfing me and my furkids (see post below) and I came across a Target receipt from this weekend. It reminded me of something I wanted to post but didn't get to. So here's the story:
I'm am a product junkie. Even if I don't need any product of any kind, I will still cruise the aisles, just in case there's something out there I need (new face wash? nail polish? lip gloss? lotion?). So I'm pushing my basket down the aisle and there's a pole in the middle of the lane. I try pushing my basket around the right because there's a person on the left with a basket. My basket gets stuck. I have to pull it back, and just when I'm about to say "Excuse me" so I can pass, I pause.
It's no ordinary shopper looking at press on nails. IT'S A DUDE!
I stop. Turn to pretend to browse at whatever's on my right (makeup for people MUCH darker than yours truly). Then, I slowly turn around to get another peek: DUDE!
I watch, this time with everything but my eyes aimed at the nail polish. I watch him pick up package after package of fake nails and hold them next to his hand. For a second, I think about grabbing my phone and snapping a picture, but decide with my luck he'd catch me, so I leave my phone in my bag. Finally, he notices me behind him. He apologizes, slides his cart out of the way for me and then says, "Can I ask you a question?"
To myself, I say, "If anyone should be asking questions..." Out loud, I say, "Sure."
"Do they sell those stickers so you can do french tips on your manicure?" I look at him, glance down at his nails and say, "Um, I think you have to buy a kit." Then, I look at the products in front of him. I reach for a manicure pen and say, "This might work."
He takes it from me, turns it over, glances at the instructions and says, "I'll probably need help with this." I say, "I know I would."
He thanks me, then pushes his cart down another aisle. I shake my head and go back to looking at the nail polish (note to Target: PLEASE stock the current OPI colors!). Then, a woman who was on the same aisle comes up to me. "Was that guy buying nail products for himself?" I tell her, "Mmmhhhmmm. He needed white tips for his french manicure." She says, "Oh."
Oh.
I was tempted to follow him around the store to see if he tried squeezing his feet into lady pumps or grabbed bras to try on. Then, I realized I needed to finish my shopping and get home. After seeing "Twilight" at the first showing, I decided I had enough strangeness in my life for the day.
And it wasn't even 3:00!
Not just people I don't know. I'm talking STRANGERS. Weirdos. Freaks.
I was going through a pile of stuff while elfing me and my furkids (see post below) and I came across a Target receipt from this weekend. It reminded me of something I wanted to post but didn't get to. So here's the story:
I'm am a product junkie. Even if I don't need any product of any kind, I will still cruise the aisles, just in case there's something out there I need (new face wash? nail polish? lip gloss? lotion?). So I'm pushing my basket down the aisle and there's a pole in the middle of the lane. I try pushing my basket around the right because there's a person on the left with a basket. My basket gets stuck. I have to pull it back, and just when I'm about to say "Excuse me" so I can pass, I pause.
It's no ordinary shopper looking at press on nails. IT'S A DUDE!
I stop. Turn to pretend to browse at whatever's on my right (makeup for people MUCH darker than yours truly). Then, I slowly turn around to get another peek: DUDE!
I watch, this time with everything but my eyes aimed at the nail polish. I watch him pick up package after package of fake nails and hold them next to his hand. For a second, I think about grabbing my phone and snapping a picture, but decide with my luck he'd catch me, so I leave my phone in my bag. Finally, he notices me behind him. He apologizes, slides his cart out of the way for me and then says, "Can I ask you a question?"
To myself, I say, "If anyone should be asking questions..." Out loud, I say, "Sure."
"Do they sell those stickers so you can do french tips on your manicure?" I look at him, glance down at his nails and say, "Um, I think you have to buy a kit." Then, I look at the products in front of him. I reach for a manicure pen and say, "This might work."
He takes it from me, turns it over, glances at the instructions and says, "I'll probably need help with this." I say, "I know I would."
He thanks me, then pushes his cart down another aisle. I shake my head and go back to looking at the nail polish (note to Target: PLEASE stock the current OPI colors!). Then, a woman who was on the same aisle comes up to me. "Was that guy buying nail products for himself?" I tell her, "Mmmhhhmmm. He needed white tips for his french manicure." She says, "Oh."
Oh.
I was tempted to follow him around the store to see if he tried squeezing his feet into lady pumps or grabbed bras to try on. Then, I realized I needed to finish my shopping and get home. After seeing "Twilight" at the first showing, I decided I had enough strangeness in my life for the day.
And it wasn't even 3:00!
Friday, November 21, 2008
New "Office" Webisodes!!
It's another round of webisodes for one of my favorite shows (why don't more of them do this?). Here's the first one! Can't wait to find out what has fired up Oscar!!!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Christmas Wishes
I LOVE the Nieman Marcus holiday catalog! It's filled with things I'll likely never own. But it's fun to see the high dollar items. So, if you're feeling extra kind and have plenty of cash to throw away, here's what you can get me:
Patent Faridah HoboPrice: $448.00
I love, love, LOVE bags! I do not have a Marc Jacobs in my collection. While the one shown is green, I would like the cherry colored one. Sure I could buy this one for myself, but what fun would that be?
I've never thought of myself as a BMW gal, but here are a few reasons why I like this one: it's one of 31 being made; it has 20-way heated and ventilated front seats (perfect for hot or cold weather); and it goes fast!
But if you buy me this, I'll take you with me to pick it up in Munich and visit the French Riviera (part of the deal).
Authentic Guinness® Home PubPrice $250,000.00
I would TOTALLY give up my study for this. Besides having craftsmen come to my home and build me my own pub, I'd get a trip to Ireland and a year full of Guinness! If you buy it for me, you can tag along, too!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
My Time Is Valuable, Too!
In the last two days, I've been to two different doctors' offices. I say offices because at only one of these appointments have I actually SEEN the doctor. Yesterday, I had an 8:45 appointment. I got there right on time and within five minutes was shuttled to the little room, where I waited another five minutes to see my doctor. I was home with plenty of time to take a nap (YAY!). I'll discuss my diagnosis shortly.
Today, I get up early (again) to go see my allergy doctor. I was seven minutes early for my 10AM appointment. I saw people who came in after me get out of the busy waiting room faster. I watched a three year old girl throw a fit repeatedly. I helped an older lady in a wheelchair get out of the room. I watched pharmaceutical reps come and go. But at 11:20, I had enough. I went to the window and asked how much longer I would have to wait. I was told 20 minutes. That's when I snapped.
Keeping my voice down, I said, "If I wasn't going to be seen until 11:40, you should have called to tell me that. If I was this late for the appointment, you would have charged me for it and then made me reschedule. I understand doctors get busy. But the schedulers should budget more time for patients, instead of cramming us all in here like sardines. I may not be healing people, but my time is just as valuable as any one else's. I'm giving you two choices: get me out of this room and into one with the doctor in the next five minutes, or give me one of the earliest appointments so I don't have to wait like this again." She rescheduled me. Then I said, "Please make sure the doctor knows why I did not stick around. If I have to wait like this again - without any explanation - I will find another doctor." She looked at me for a few seconds, then asked, "Would you like the doctor to call you." I said, "Yes." And he did call. I said the same thing. He apologized and promised I would not have to wait at my next appointment. I said explained that no one should have to wait like that. It's beyond rude - it's disrespectful.
Now, back to the other doctor... I have been diagnosed with polycsystic ovary syndrome. For the next six months, I'm taking medication to try to ease it. If that doesn't work, it's surgery time. I am optimistic that now that I have been diagnosed I can get better.
At least my chesty cough is mostly gone...
Today, I get up early (again) to go see my allergy doctor. I was seven minutes early for my 10AM appointment. I saw people who came in after me get out of the busy waiting room faster. I watched a three year old girl throw a fit repeatedly. I helped an older lady in a wheelchair get out of the room. I watched pharmaceutical reps come and go. But at 11:20, I had enough. I went to the window and asked how much longer I would have to wait. I was told 20 minutes. That's when I snapped.
Keeping my voice down, I said, "If I wasn't going to be seen until 11:40, you should have called to tell me that. If I was this late for the appointment, you would have charged me for it and then made me reschedule. I understand doctors get busy. But the schedulers should budget more time for patients, instead of cramming us all in here like sardines. I may not be healing people, but my time is just as valuable as any one else's. I'm giving you two choices: get me out of this room and into one with the doctor in the next five minutes, or give me one of the earliest appointments so I don't have to wait like this again." She rescheduled me. Then I said, "Please make sure the doctor knows why I did not stick around. If I have to wait like this again - without any explanation - I will find another doctor." She looked at me for a few seconds, then asked, "Would you like the doctor to call you." I said, "Yes." And he did call. I said the same thing. He apologized and promised I would not have to wait at my next appointment. I said explained that no one should have to wait like that. It's beyond rude - it's disrespectful.
Now, back to the other doctor... I have been diagnosed with polycsystic ovary syndrome. For the next six months, I'm taking medication to try to ease it. If that doesn't work, it's surgery time. I am optimistic that now that I have been diagnosed I can get better.
At least my chesty cough is mostly gone...
Friday, November 14, 2008
Bored. BORED. B-O-R-E-D.
I stole this from Jayme because I don't have much to say right now and thought this would be nice filler for the weekend. Copy, paste and answer in the comments section ... if you dare.
[ONE] Who was your last text?
Me to Mendez: I'm gonna hit you.
[TWO] Where was your default pic taken?
my house
[THREE] Your relationship status?
s-i-n-g-l-e
[FOUR] Have you ever lost a close friend?
To death? No. Over time? Yes.
[FIVE] What is your current mood
Glad it's Friday!
[SIX] What's your brother's name?
Billy. Pumpkin Head. Hater. Gay Uncle Billy. (He's not gay, but that's what Charley calls him)
[SEVEN ] What's your favorite colors?
I like most colors - except yellow.
[EIGHT] Where do you wish you were right now?
Counting my lotto millions.
[NINE] Have you ever been in trouble with the cops?
Ask my Dad. He IS the cops!
[TEN] Ever had a near death experience?
I'm sure I have, I just can't think of one to share.
[ELEVEN] Something you do a lot?
Um, blog? Chase my furkids around. Read magazines - which could be a full time job.
[TWELVE] Angry at anyone?
RACISTS - especially those who have taken to making not-so-nice comments about the President-Elect and deny it's racist (they like to call it "a joke")!
[THIRTEEN] What's stopping you from going for the person you like?
Restraining order. I WON'T HURT YOU, CLOONEY!
[FOURTEEN] When was the last time you cried?
Last Wednesday (I think - it was some time last week)
[FIFTEEN] Is there anyone you would do anything for?
Like Jayme, I, too, need a definition of "anything." If you mean would I pick up a dead hooker and dump her body for you, I'm gonna say "No" everytime. I don't like dead people. Other things I don't do: bugs, odor, poop, dirty water (lakes/rivers included), tattoos, piercings. Everything else is up for debate.
[SIXTEEN] What do you think about when you are falling asleep?
"I hope Charley & Chaplin don't wake me up early."
[SEVENTEEN] Who was the last person you talked to on the phone?
My Mom. (HaHa! I beat you to it, Trevor!)
[EIGHTEEN] What is your favorite song?
Just one? Well, I'll go with the one I keep playing over and over right now: "Sunday Bloody Sunday" by U2 - LIVE, BABY!
[NINETEEN] What are you doing right now
Listening to the news.
[TWENTY] Who do you trust right now?
Little Known Fact: I don't trust most of you.
[TWENTY-ONE] Where did you get the shirt you are wearing?
Old Navy
[TWENTY-TWO] Who did you hold hands with last?
No idea. But I hope he/she washed his/her hands first!
[TWENTY-THREE] What is your lucky number?
OOOH! 23 (weird, right?)
[TWENTY- FOUR] Who is your friend that is closest to you?
I have a close inner circle.. You know who you are!
[TWENTY- FIVE] Describe your life in one word?
crazy
[TWENTY- SIX] Have you ever kissed in the rain?
Why would you do this? Get out of the rain - it messes up your hair!
[TWENTY-SEVEN] Who are you thinking of right now?
Denise. I haven't talked to her in a few days and I'm wondering if she's gotten a spring put on her foot to make up for the second surgery. NISE - I TOLD YOU THIS WAS A GOOD IDEA! YOU COULD JUMP LIKE TIGGER AND RUN LIKE THE FREAKING WIND!
[TWENTY-EIGHT] What should you be doing right now?
Dishes? Getting ready for work?
[TWENTY-NINE] What did you do yesterday?
I worked. BOO!
[THIRTY] What are you listening to?
the news
[THIRTY- ONE] Who was the last person you hugged?
My Mom (OOOH! In your face, Trevor!)
[THIRTY- TWO] Who do you hate at this moment?
RACISTS
[THIRTY- THREE] Do you act differently around the person you like?
Nope. I am who I am. If you don't like it, I don't like you.
[THIRTY- FOUR] What is your natural hair color?
I don't remember.
[THIRT-FIVE] Who was the last person to make you laugh?
I laugh a lot. I don't keep tabs on who makes that happen.
[
Me to Mendez: I'm gonna hit you.
[TWO] Where
my house
[THREE
s-i-n-g-l-e
[FOUR]
To death? No. Over time? Yes.
[FIVE]
Glad it's Friday!
[SIX] What'
Billy. Pumpkin Head. Hater. Gay Uncle Billy. (He's not gay, but that's what Charley calls him)
[SEVEN
I like most colors - except yellow.
[EIGHT
Counting my lotto millions.
[NINE]
Ask my Dad. He IS the cops!
[TEN] Ever had a near death
I'm sure I have, I just can't think of one to share.
[ELEVE
Um, blog? Chase my furkids around. Read magazines - which could be a full time job.
[TWELV
RACISTS - especially those who have taken to making not-so-nice comments about the President-Elect and deny it's racist (they like to call it "a joke")!
[THIRT
Restraining order. I WON'T HURT YOU, CLOONEY!
[FOURT
Last Wednesday (I think - it was some time last week)
[FIFTE
Like Jayme, I, too, need a definition of "anything." If you mean would I pick up a dead hooker and dump her body for you, I'm gonna say "No" everytime. I don't like dead people. Other things I don't do: bugs, odor, poop, dirty water (lakes/rivers included), tattoos, piercings. Everything else is up for debate.
[SIXTE
"I hope Charley & Chaplin don't wake me up early."
[SEVEN
My Mom. (HaHa! I beat you to it, Trevor!)
[EIGHT
Just one? Well, I'll go with the one I keep playing over and over right now: "Sunday Bloody Sunday" by U2 - LIVE, BABY!
[NINET
Listening to the news.
[TWENT
Little Known Fact: I don't trust most of you.
[TWENT
Old Navy
[TWENT
No idea. But I hope he/she washed his/her hands first!
[TWENT
OOOH! 23 (weird, right?)
[TWENT
I have a close inner circle.. You know who you are!
[TWENT
crazy
[TWENT
Why would you do this? Get out of the rain - it messes up your hair!
[TWENT
Denise. I haven't talked to her in a few days and I'm wondering if she's gotten a spring put on her foot to make up for the second surgery. NISE - I TOLD YOU THIS WAS A GOOD IDEA! YOU COULD JUMP LIKE TIGGER AND RUN LIKE THE FREAKING WIND!
[TWENT
Dishes? Getting ready for work?
[TWENT
I worked. BOO!
[THIRT
the news
[THIRT
My Mom (OOOH! In your face, Trevor!)
[THIRT
RACISTS
[THIRT
Nope. I am who I am. If you don't like it, I don't like you.
[THIRT
I don't remember.
[
I laugh a lot. I don't keep tabs on who makes that happen.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Weird Cough Syrup
I'm on the tail end of my cold and the worst part is this lingering cough.
I drove to the nearest Walgreen's to get some more cough drops and decided to also grab some cough syrup while I was there. I wanted something just for coughs, as I have no other symptoms (snotty nose aside). I spot a whole line of Vicks 44 Custom Care and find two cough syrups. One is for the dry cough, which is not what I have. So I choose the other:
Chesty Cough.
I do have a chest cough. But seriously, "Chesty Cough?" That's like a name for a porn star or a stripper. I can hear it now, "Taking the stage now, put your hands together for Chesty Cough!"
I'm taking it. It's working. But still. I can't get over the label.
I drove to the nearest Walgreen's to get some more cough drops and decided to also grab some cough syrup while I was there. I wanted something just for coughs, as I have no other symptoms (snotty nose aside). I spot a whole line of Vicks 44 Custom Care and find two cough syrups. One is for the dry cough, which is not what I have. So I choose the other:
Chesty Cough.I do have a chest cough. But seriously, "Chesty Cough?" That's like a name for a porn star or a stripper. I can hear it now, "Taking the stage now, put your hands together for Chesty Cough!"
I'm taking it. It's working. But still. I can't get over the label.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Saturday, November 8, 2008
My Thoughts On The Election
WOW.
I have worked every Presidential election since Bill Clinton's second term. Never, have I seen what has unfolded this past week. I knew whatever happened Tuesday would make history. Either Barack Obama would be the first African American President or Sarah Palin would be the first female Vice President. Both invoked strong feelings from Americans. I refused to accept the polls could be correct. Could a black man be elected to lead the United States of America? Even as I glanced at the electoral votes, seeing the growing difference between Obama and John McCain, I could not wrap my brain around what was happening. Then, just before 10pm our time, it was made official. If I hadn't been so busy with our local election stuff, I might have had more of a reaction. Instead, I reflected on it, then went back to work. I did pause to watch John McCain's sincere concession speech. It was moving - not just because it was the last time McCain will run for this great office, but because I think he meant it when he said:
Ever since I first heard him speak at the DNC in 2004, I was moved by what he said and how he said it.
I stopped what I was doing, sat down on my sofa and thought to myself, "I don't know who that guy is with the funny sounding name, but he's going to be President some day!" I thought it would be some day when I was old and gray (I've got a few gray hairs and am not quite old now).
When I compared the two nominees this year, I couldn't help but spot the obvious differences (black/white, young/old). But in all my research, I knew Obama was my candidate.
Like Obama, I am bi-racial. Like Obama, I have a birth father who abandoned me. Like Obama, I have had to tell myself that no one can tell me I can't do something. Why? Because I am American. I have never related to a candidate on this level before. I have no desire to be President - especially with politics being such a nasty business. There were times when I heard some really awful (and untrue) comments about Obama and I wondered why he would run for this office. I think the answer is simple: he wants to break down those barriers for his daughters, for the children whose parents think there are limits to how high those kids can go.
I have heard people who voted for JFK say they had hope in that Irish Catholic guy with the funny accent. I have heard people who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., talk about the hope they had then. Friends and anonymous readers, I have hope now. My hope is that no child will ever grow up and think they cannot achieve greatness just because their parents can't afford to send them to college. My hope now is that people will stop making their racist remarks (you know what they are - I'm not repeating them here) and accept that 52% of America voted for Obama. Unlike the last two elections, this outcome was very clear: The People want change.
I am excited about our future. Now, all these days after history was made, I have been watching some of the coverage I recorded. I'm not gonna lie, I have shed some tears. Not just because the candidate I chose won, but because of all the people who died before Obama was elected - his grandmother and mother among them. I know they're looking down at him, cheering him on.
Go ahead and make your predictions of doom. Armchair quarterback the decision made to make Palin the VP, the decision to continue to make statements that were untrue while refusing to address the real issues - or anything else that may have cost McCain the chance to be President. But the way this economy has fallen, we know it will get better - history tells us this. I just ask that you give Obama the chance to prove himself. If he doesn't, you can vote him out in four years.
I have worked every Presidential election since Bill Clinton's second term. Never, have I seen what has unfolded this past week. I knew whatever happened Tuesday would make history. Either Barack Obama would be the first African American President or Sarah Palin would be the first female Vice President. Both invoked strong feelings from Americans. I refused to accept the polls could be correct. Could a black man be elected to lead the United States of America? Even as I glanced at the electoral votes, seeing the growing difference between Obama and John McCain, I could not wrap my brain around what was happening. Then, just before 10pm our time, it was made official. If I hadn't been so busy with our local election stuff, I might have had more of a reaction. Instead, I reflected on it, then went back to work. I did pause to watch John McCain's sincere concession speech. It was moving - not just because it was the last time McCain will run for this great office, but because I think he meant it when he said:
Senator Obama and I have had and argued our differences, and he has prevailed. No doubt many of those differences remain. These are difficult times for our country, and I pledge to him tonight to do all in my power to help him lead us through the many challenges we face.
I urge all Americans who supported me to join me in not just congratulating him, but offering our next president our good will and earnest effort to find ways to come together, to find the necessary compromises, to bridge our differences, and help restore our prosperity, defend our security in a dangerous world, and leave our children and grandchildren a stronger, better country than we inherited.
Now, back to Obama. I have watched plenty of politicians speak, either in small groups or at large rallies. I'm used to seeing people who have that look of, "That's our candidate. He/She will get the job done." I have never seen people who have hope in their eyes as they do when Obama speaks. I had the privilege of seeing him speak before the primary election. I say it was a privilege because even though it was the same stump speech, mixed in with Q&A from those in attendance, I didn't hear anyone walking away after the rally saying, "Well, what does he really think?" People don't just like Obama. They believe in him. That's HUGE!
Ever since I first heard him speak at the DNC in 2004, I was moved by what he said and how he said it.
I stopped what I was doing, sat down on my sofa and thought to myself, "I don't know who that guy is with the funny sounding name, but he's going to be President some day!" I thought it would be some day when I was old and gray (I've got a few gray hairs and am not quite old now).
When I compared the two nominees this year, I couldn't help but spot the obvious differences (black/white, young/old). But in all my research, I knew Obama was my candidate.
Like Obama, I am bi-racial. Like Obama, I have a birth father who abandoned me. Like Obama, I have had to tell myself that no one can tell me I can't do something. Why? Because I am American. I have never related to a candidate on this level before. I have no desire to be President - especially with politics being such a nasty business. There were times when I heard some really awful (and untrue) comments about Obama and I wondered why he would run for this office. I think the answer is simple: he wants to break down those barriers for his daughters, for the children whose parents think there are limits to how high those kids can go.
I have heard people who voted for JFK say they had hope in that Irish Catholic guy with the funny accent. I have heard people who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., talk about the hope they had then. Friends and anonymous readers, I have hope now. My hope is that no child will ever grow up and think they cannot achieve greatness just because their parents can't afford to send them to college. My hope now is that people will stop making their racist remarks (you know what they are - I'm not repeating them here) and accept that 52% of America voted for Obama. Unlike the last two elections, this outcome was very clear: The People want change.
I am excited about our future. Now, all these days after history was made, I have been watching some of the coverage I recorded. I'm not gonna lie, I have shed some tears. Not just because the candidate I chose won, but because of all the people who died before Obama was elected - his grandmother and mother among them. I know they're looking down at him, cheering him on.
Go ahead and make your predictions of doom. Armchair quarterback the decision made to make Palin the VP, the decision to continue to make statements that were untrue while refusing to address the real issues - or anything else that may have cost McCain the chance to be President. But the way this economy has fallen, we know it will get better - history tells us this. I just ask that you give Obama the chance to prove himself. If he doesn't, you can vote him out in four years.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
I Love This Frog!
I prefer not to get this close to a frog OR a snake, but this photo is amazing!
Sadly, the photographer got tired of watching the frog fight off the snake, so he doesn't know who won this battle.
I say the frog wins!
Sadly, the photographer got tired of watching the frog fight off the snake, so he doesn't know who won this battle.I say the frog wins!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
My Medical Update
Before I headed in to work Tuesday, my doctor called. She had good news and bad news. I asked for the bad news first. She says none of my test results explain my fatigue (I strongly believe I had a case of electionitis). The good news: I don't have cancer and I don't have a thyroid problem.
I still have more testing (including one incredibly uncomfortable one today). I go back to see the doctor in a week and a half. We'll see what's going on. I just hope whatever it is can be treated quickly so I can go back to feeling like myself soon!
I still have more testing (including one incredibly uncomfortable one today). I go back to see the doctor in a week and a half. We'll see what's going on. I just hope whatever it is can be treated quickly so I can go back to feeling like myself soon!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Another Month, ANOTHER Survey
Thank Heidi for this one...
1. What is your occupation right now? Super Producer
2. What color are your socks right now? no socks
3. What are you listening to right now?Jon Stewart
15. How do you vent anger? not well - obscenities, shouting, making threats (even to inanimate objects)
16. What was your favorite toy as a child? it's not that I didn't have toys, I just don't remember one being my favorite. Does that mean I was spoiled?
17. What is your favorite season? Winter. I LOVE the cold. However, I don't want to live some place where it snows and is icy - that's too much!
18. Cherries or Blueberries? both, please
19. Do you want your friends to e-mail you back?Friends can respond in the comments section - if they dare!
30. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
31. How many states have you lived in? Two - Texas & New Mexico
32. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds
33. What is your favorite flower? peonies and tulips
1. What is your occupation right now? Super Producer
2. What color are your socks right now? no socks
3. What are you listening to right now?Jon Stewart
4. What was the last thing that you ate? chocolate chip cookie
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Yes
6. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Ivette
7. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yes!
8. How old are you today? The calendar says I'm 33. Mentally, I'm 104.
9. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV? hmmm... Wii Tennis?
5. Can you drive a stick shift? Yes
6. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Ivette
7. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yes!
8. How old are you today? The calendar says I'm 33. Mentally, I'm 104.
9. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV? hmmm... Wii Tennis?
10. What is your favorite drink? sweet tea
11. Have you ever dyed your hair? I can't remember NOT coloring my hair
11. Have you ever dyed your hair? I can't remember NOT coloring my hair
12. Favorite food? lately I can't stop craving chicken pad thai
13. What is the last movie you watched? The Great Debaters
14. Favorite day of the year? Christmas Day
13. What is the last movie you watched? The Great Debaters
14. Favorite day of the year? Christmas Day
15. How do you vent anger? not well - obscenities, shouting, making threats (even to inanimate objects)
16. What was your favorite toy as a child? it's not that I didn't have toys, I just don't remember one being my favorite. Does that mean I was spoiled?
17. What is your favorite season? Winter. I LOVE the cold. However, I don't want to live some place where it snows and is icy - that's too much!
18. Cherries or Blueberries? both, please
19. Do you want your friends to e-mail you back?Friends can respond in the comments section - if they dare!
20. Who is the most likely to respond? surprise me!
21. Who is least likely to respond?
22. Living arrangements? me and my furkids
21. Who is least likely to respond?
22. Living arrangements? me and my furkids
23. When was the last time you cried? Thursday
24. What is on the floor of your closet? shoes, bed linens, handbags (and it's NOT a neat pile)
25. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending to? no one
26. What did you do last night? I worked, came home, fed the kids, blogged DWTS for the work blog, took some NyQuil and called it a night - at 12:30
27. What are you most afraid of? close-minded people
28. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers? make it spicy, cheesey - and hold the onions!
29. Favorite dog breed? well, I love my little wienerdog, but I would LOVE to have a Great Dane or a Goldendoodle!24. What is on the floor of your closet? shoes, bed linens, handbags (and it's NOT a neat pile)
25. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending to? no one
26. What did you do last night? I worked, came home, fed the kids, blogged DWTS for the work blog, took some NyQuil and called it a night - at 12:30
27. What are you most afraid of? close-minded people
28. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers? make it spicy, cheesey - and hold the onions!
30. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
31. How many states have you lived in? Two - Texas & New Mexico
32. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds
33. What is your favorite flower? peonies and tulips
Monday, November 3, 2008
Happy Monday!
While I threaten this cold to get the heck out of my head, I'll share this happy moment with you:
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Friday, October 31, 2008
We Are A Big Mess
So, my dear friend Denise broke her ankle killing a spider (that's the short version - and, YES, I did tell her she shouldn't kill Charlotte). Finally, I get a picture of her in her wheelchair.
She's a good sport, so I'm hoping she doesn't make me take this down. I LOVE IT! She actually wears that headband EVERY day. Because she's a tiger. GRRRRRRRRRRRR.
I was telling her this afternoon we will be quite the spinster pair in the nursing home. We plan to find one that serves booze daily. We'll allot time to note our ailments, perhaps do some knitting, have someone push us around the grounds, then wheel our happy behinds into happy hour!
She's a good sport, so I'm hoping she doesn't make me take this down. I LOVE IT! She actually wears that headband EVERY day. Because she's a tiger. GRRRRRRRRRRRR.I was telling her this afternoon we will be quite the spinster pair in the nursing home. We plan to find one that serves booze daily. We'll allot time to note our ailments, perhaps do some knitting, have someone push us around the grounds, then wheel our happy behinds into happy hour!
Why I Hate Going To The Doctor
I went to the doctor Wednesday. For the last six weeks I haven't been feeling well - not bad, just not well. After some uncomfortable (and one VERY painful) tests, I filled a few vials of blood, went to work and had a flu shot. And now, I wait.
I have to have an ultrasound next week (for the record, I am NOT pregnant). I'm a little nervous about having to show up with a full bladder. I mean, how long can I hold all that water without peeing my pants?
I'll admit, it's a little nerve wracking to have a doctor say, "Your problems might be thyroid-related, but it could be ovarian cancer." Now, I firmly believe in thinking the worst so that if it's not true I can be relieved. But, seriously, I just want to know. NOW.
I would think that if my blood tests turned up something really scary, I'd get a call before I go back to the doctor in a week and a half. But it's the not knowing that is making me crazy. It's weird that I'm a little on edge now, since I've been waiting more than a month just to see the doctor. Forgive me if I'm a little cranky, tired or spaced out. I'm having a bit of a hard time concentrating these days. I'm also incredibly tired. So if you call and wake me up, don't worry. I'll fall back asleep (unless I have to race off to work - sadly, no naps there).
I'll keep you posted and try to keep my Debbie Downer posts to a minimum. Until then, how about a little Debbie Downer?
I have to have an ultrasound next week (for the record, I am NOT pregnant). I'm a little nervous about having to show up with a full bladder. I mean, how long can I hold all that water without peeing my pants?
I'll admit, it's a little nerve wracking to have a doctor say, "Your problems might be thyroid-related, but it could be ovarian cancer." Now, I firmly believe in thinking the worst so that if it's not true I can be relieved. But, seriously, I just want to know. NOW.
I would think that if my blood tests turned up something really scary, I'd get a call before I go back to the doctor in a week and a half. But it's the not knowing that is making me crazy. It's weird that I'm a little on edge now, since I've been waiting more than a month just to see the doctor. Forgive me if I'm a little cranky, tired or spaced out. I'm having a bit of a hard time concentrating these days. I'm also incredibly tired. So if you call and wake me up, don't worry. I'll fall back asleep (unless I have to race off to work - sadly, no naps there).
I'll keep you posted and try to keep my Debbie Downer posts to a minimum. Until then, how about a little Debbie Downer?
Thursday, October 30, 2008
OK - I'm Voting!
I don't know who sent me this (really, it came from someone named Sabrina - I don't know any Sabrinas). But I am voting before work today. So don't blame me if this happens!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
This Scares Me
This baby is adorable, but the picture is disturbing. If you want me to stop eating meat, start putting out more pictures like this. I'm creeped out by it.If you want to see some other kid costumes, including some that are heavy on the cute and light on the creep factors, click here.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Must See TV!
OK, now that the second season of "Mad Men" is complete, sigh, I have to say I hate to see it go! Yes, I have plenty of other television to watch, but this is one show that I will watch over and over again. And not just because of Jon Hamm.
I mean, he's handsome (or hammsome, if you will). But there is not one person on this show who is not fantastic! If you have not watched this show, you are missing out on one fine hour of television. It really is one of the best shows on TV right now. If they don't rerun the show from its beginning (and it's AMC, so I besides reruns of old movies, I don't know what else they would do), get to a rental store or go online and watch it! You will not be disappointed!
Last night's finale was fantastic! I hate that I have to wait until next year to find out what happens next! If you saw it, let's discuss in the comments section.
I mean, he's handsome (or hammsome, if you will). But there is not one person on this show who is not fantastic! If you have not watched this show, you are missing out on one fine hour of television. It really is one of the best shows on TV right now. If they don't rerun the show from its beginning (and it's AMC, so I besides reruns of old movies, I don't know what else they would do), get to a rental store or go online and watch it! You will not be disappointed!Last night's finale was fantastic! I hate that I have to wait until next year to find out what happens next! If you saw it, let's discuss in the comments section.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
NiQuirky
Julie challenged people (i.e., her friends who blog) to share six quirks about themselves. Because I read it, I tried to come up with mine, but realized it was more like my big flaws (being too honest - which could be rude; lack of patience; constant need to make threats to people). I decided not to go into great detail.
So, I'm letting you people name my quirks in the comments section. Don't be hateful. Be honest. And you can't just name one. You MUST give an example.
See? I'm bossy.
So, I'm letting you people name my quirks in the comments section. Don't be hateful. Be honest. And you can't just name one. You MUST give an example.
See? I'm bossy.
Cool Pumpkins!
Isn't that cool? It's so detailed - I don't have the talent or patience to do something like that! Because my pumpkin would be carved with the most basic of holes, I'd like you to go here to see some spectacular gourds in the Halloween spirit!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
It's Your Lucky Day!
Not one, not two, but THREE posts from me today!
Watch Gina Gershon do Sarah Palin (don't be dirty). Enjoy! :)
Watch Gina Gershon do Sarah Palin (don't be dirty). Enjoy! :)
See more Gina Gershon videos at Funny or Die
My Fall TV Lineup UPDATE
I have cut some shows out of my life. Not just because I have too much on my DVR, but because, let's face it, some shows just aren't good. If you want to see what I planned to watch, go here.
Here's what I'm not watching:
New shows I'm loving:
Here's what I'm not watching:
- Eli Stone - I was on the fence about this after last season. I didn't make it through the first episode. I kept sighing and rolling my eyes at it. Buh-bye.
- Kath & Kim - This is like a SNL skit that goes on way too long (don't they do that with most skits these days?). I'm sure the original version was fun. This one, not so much. Gone.
- Crusoe - I never started this. I figured even though the show has a limited run, each episode is an hour long and I just didn't want to get into it. If it's any good, they'll re-run it later. I can catch it then. Otherwise, I figure it's not that big of a loss.
- The Ex List - Another show that didn't get any of my time. I never bothered to add it to my list of shows to record. Not hearing a lot of buzz about it, so I figure I'm not missing anything.
New shows I'm loving:
- True Blood - Yes, it's like vampire porn some weeks, but it's so well done!
- My Own Worst Enemy - Christian Slater in a role very much like Jason Bourne? Yes, please!
- 90210 - Guilty pleasure! And I'm hoping Dylan will come back!
- Fringe - Yes, the idea of taking a dude out of the looney bin to go to some secret lab at Harvard to figure out what "The Pattern" is all about is far fetched - especially when he says things like "I wet my pants." Still, I'm intrigued by these wild experiments!
- Life on Mars - It's cool. I'm not sure if this guy is in a coma or if he has traveled in time, but I'm sticking by it to find out!
Charley's a Wiener - AND a Winner!
Last weekend, the rescue group where I found Charley (Diamond Dachshund Rescue of Texas) had its adopter's reunion. I call it "Wienerpalooza." There are wiener dogs everywhere and they are all sizes and colors! They do a costume contest, give out free hot dogs (of the eating kind - the real hot dogs are not free). We took Charley's friend, Lucy the Beagle, with us. She's the big dog at the park! But with all that, my favorite part is the races!
Last year, Charley was entered and he didn't finish. He took a couple of steps, then turned and went far, far away from all the action. This year, I had a strategy. I took a squeaky tennis ball. I put some of Charley's favorite treats in a bag. Then, with mom holding him at the starting line, I walked down towards him, squeaking the ball. To make sure I had his attention, I let him smell the treats. Then, he was trying to get them. I walked backwards, squeaking the ball and shaking the treat bag at him. Then, they said, "GO!" and my mom gave him a good launch. I called his name, squeaked the ball and waved the treat bag. Then, he crossed the finish line!
He placed second - the dog to my right crossed before Charley. I was very proud of him! He got his special treats and we all piled into the car and went home. I told Charley that next year, he'll win! Or else...
Last year, Charley was entered and he didn't finish. He took a couple of steps, then turned and went far, far away from all the action. This year, I had a strategy. I took a squeaky tennis ball. I put some of Charley's favorite treats in a bag. Then, with mom holding him at the starting line, I walked down towards him, squeaking the ball. To make sure I had his attention, I let him smell the treats. Then, he was trying to get them. I walked backwards, squeaking the ball and shaking the treat bag at him. Then, they said, "GO!" and my mom gave him a good launch. I called his name, squeaked the ball and waved the treat bag. Then, he crossed the finish line!
He placed second - the dog to my right crossed before Charley. I was very proud of him! He got his special treats and we all piled into the car and went home. I told Charley that next year, he'll win! Or else...
Thursday, October 16, 2008
L'il O'Reilly
A little politcal-esque humor. This kid's loud, so mind your speakers if you're at work. Enjoy!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Extreme Closeup
If you know me, or have read this blog before, you know I'm not a fan of Governor Sarah Palin. I'm not gonna lie - she scares the bejeezus out of me! What was even scarier was this magazine cover in my mailbox the other day.
I was put off by the stray hairs in her eyebrows and slight mustache. She is a pretty woman. What was the purpose of such a closeup???
They gave Hillary the same treatment (no touch-up) only hers was not as close as Palin's. And I'm pretty sure the guys don't get any photoshop help. But honestly, this is just plain disrespectful. If I'm ever on the cover of a magazine (perish the thought kind readers), I expect, no I DEMAND some retouching! I think we've all gotten used to the softer images on the newstands. Yes, I know Newsweek is a news magazine, not exactly like the other glossies I get each week or month. But I hope to never see anyone - especially a politician - look like this on the cover of any magazine. They're all a little harsh around the edges. I just don't want to see it.
I was put off by the stray hairs in her eyebrows and slight mustache. She is a pretty woman. What was the purpose of such a closeup???They gave Hillary the same treatment (no touch-up) only hers was not as close as Palin's. And I'm pretty sure the guys don't get any photoshop help. But honestly, this is just plain disrespectful. If I'm ever on the cover of a magazine (perish the thought kind readers), I expect, no I DEMAND some retouching! I think we've all gotten used to the softer images on the newstands. Yes, I know Newsweek is a news magazine, not exactly like the other glossies I get each week or month. But I hope to never see anyone - especially a politician - look like this on the cover of any magazine. They're all a little harsh around the edges. I just don't want to see it.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
While You're Freaking Out About Your 401k
See how the folks who took AIG into the dump reacted to the $85 BILLION check the government (i.e., ME AND YOU) wrote them.
I want a refund. Or a trip to the St. Regis. JERKS.
I want a refund. Or a trip to the St. Regis. JERKS.
Let's Get Political, Political
I want to get political. Let me hear your campaigns talk.
Sorry, that's the best I can do with "Physical."
When I read this quote this morning, I flicked my monitor.
Sorry, that's the best I can do with "Physical."
When I read this quote this morning, I flicked my monitor.
Cindy McCain said today that she expects her husband to clear the record at tonight’s debate and let America know where he truly stands.
McCain, who stopped to visit a half-dozen children at the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt today, said the presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama has "waged the dirtiest campaign in American history,” and her husband Sen. John McCain will use tonight’s debate to correct the distortions.
The only thing John McCain did well last night was keep his temper in check. I did not like that both candidates did more of the same - oh, and manage to get their facts wrong. Remember change? Remember reform? They need to change and reform their tactics in next week's debate.
First of all, BOTH campaigns are (at best) waist-deep in mud. It's like both parties are just throwing a whole bunch of mud to see what sticks. I know plenty of people who believe whatever they hear - either from the candidate or from a political ad. Unlike yours truly, they don't check these things out to find out what's true. This really makes my blood boil!
Second, for a guy who calls himself a "Maverick," why is he letting his wife fight his battles for him? Shouldn't she just stick to the issues herself? Instead of throwing mud from her perfectly manicured nails, shouldn't Cindy McCain be careful not to get her 5-figure suit dirty? COME ON!
Take a look at some of the facts. This site lists the lies that keep making the rounds. There's no spin on this site, which looks at both sides. The Washington Post puts all things political to the Pinocchio test. If that's "too liberal" for you, the Washington Times does it, too.
I really hope the candidates (and their people) will stop this nonsense in these last weeks before Election Day. I want them to address the issues - like the economy. I am more afraid of my 401k shrinking than al Qaeda. Besides, if we don't have a solid economy, the terrorists win - they will surely take credit for crippling America. You know there's not a single politician out there who will take full blame for leading us to a recession.
AAAHH. I feel better.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
My Furkids Getting Cozy
Charley usually stays as far away from Chaplin as possible. But if he lays down and Chaplin comes his way, Charley will stay put - until attacked. Since my Mom asked (or demanded) I update a picture of the kids, I decided to post these taken late this afternoon. They were sleeping before they heard me turn the camera on. Look at how close they are! I cannot how big Chaplin is at just 5 months old. He has more growing to do!
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