littlemissy555

Killer Weekend

2008-05-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

I can only hope that everyone had as much fun this weekend as I did. Did you ever have one of those weekends? You know, the kind where everything just falls into place and the whole weekend is a blast? Anyone? Well anyway, that is how my weekend went.

I spent Friday night at my cousin's house watching movies and playing with the kids. We had a lot of fun and the kids love to wrestle with me. So Friday was good, but Saturday was a blast. I got to sleep in a little bit and when I got up my roommate was getting ready to leave for the day...BONUS!!! So, I took the opportunity to do some things around the house...in my jammies. Saturday night the gang went out to a place called the Village to hear our fav. local band. Jeremy works with the drummer and they really kick ass....great show. I had a few beers, danced until I couldn't feel my legs anymore, sang, and got to hang out with my friends. I really wished that the night didn't have to end.

Sunday was much more low key. I stayed at Jeremy's house because I had been drinking (don't drink and drive!!!) and we spent all day Sunday in bed. I couldn't tell you how many movies we watched or how much Guitar Hero we played, but it was nice to not do anything. Here are some pictures from Saturday:

Here we have Brandon, Ryan, Steph, Jeremy, and Eddie doing Jager Bombs.

Ryan and Jeremy hamming it up for Steph and acting crazy...

Steph loves the fact that I am tiny and picks me up for no reason sometimes :0)

And this picture (or should I say the beverage) led to this:

I was having such a blast at this point, and I really love this picture for some reason.

Last but not least...a good picture of Jeremy and I...love this one too!

Now just to show how busy I have been, I started this entry on Monday and it is now Thursday....yeah I am awesome I know ;0). I hope everyone has a great Memorial Day weekend!!!

The case of the disappearing Missy!

2008-05-12T09:56:00.000-05:00

Well, here I am. And, contrary to popular belief, I did not fall off the face of the earth...thank goodness. I have been so busy lately and blogging has just not been on the top of my priority list...but I have really missed reading blogs and writing too (but not as much as reading).

As you can probably see from the picture, I have been disappearing in more than one way. Stress has that effect on me...I am back to the same size I was (if not a little smaller) than I was in high school. Not to worry though...

My little niece is getting so big and is finally walking! She is such a sweet little girl and I just love spending time with her. This Mothers' Day was my sister's first and it was really special for her.

I have been trying my best to make due with the current living situation, but my roommate is really working on my last nerve. Hopefully before long Jeremy and I will be getting a place together and I won't have to deal with her as a roommate.

My relationship with Jeremy has been going great. It is so nice to have finally met someone that I feel so comfortable with. He has really made a difference in my life:).

Well, I just wanted to check in with everyone and let you know that I didn't forget about this little page. I will hopefully have a little more time now to update, but we shall see. I will be checking in on what I've missed and I will try my best to comment....:0)

Today is the day!

2007-12-14T11:03:00.000-05:00

I am pretty sure that I have mentioned before that my sis and bro-in-law were adopting a little girl from Guatemala. When they started the process, Noelle was 2 or 3 mo. old I believe. On Dec. 6 Noelle turned 1 and as of yesterday she is in the country and officially a member of the family!!!! ***Squee!!!***

They didn't get home until late last night so today I will finally get to meet (and get my hands on) that precious little girl. Noelle is the first grandchild for my parents and my sister's mom and stepdad so as you can imagine everyone is just over the moon.

Watching her go through her first year through pictures was hard, but it was also wonderful. I am just so happy that she is finally here and that my sister and brother-in-law can finally stop worrying and will be much less stressed.

They are having a small birthday party for her on Sunday with the immediate family. We don't want her to be completely overwhelmed. My sister's birthday was on Wed. so she got the best birthday present ever! And, we are all getting a very special Christmas present this year!

Family Traditions

2007-11-20T11:27:00.000-05:00

Most families have their own traditions as far as the holidays go. My family is no exception to this, hence the title of this post. With Thanksgiving coming up I was thinking about what I am most thankful for - and that is my family. My dad's side of the family is quite large. I am the youngest of 13 grandchildren, from the 6 children of my grandparents (who each came from families of 13 kids each). Before I was born Thanksgiving was always held at my grandparent's house. It was a chance for everyone to catch up and all of the cousins to get to play together. But, by the time I came along, all of the individual families had started doing their own dinners on thanksgiving (I am the youngest by 10 years).

In 2004 my cousin Jeff had a wonderful idea to start having a big family meal again. It was planned that the Sunday before Thanksgiving we would have an early Thanksgiving for the whole family to get together. Our new tradition was that we would make a main course as our great grandmother would have. We each bring a dish, but cook something (this year it was chicken pot pie) in kettles over an open fire outside. We have made chicken corn soup, apple butter, and the traditional turkey. It has been so great for all of the family to get to pitch in and spend the day together. This is what I am thankful for. It is also great that the great grandchildren and the great-great grandchildren have an opportunity to get to know one another as some of them live a few hours away.

My grandfather just had his 90th birthday in September and God willing we will have him for years to come, but it is wonderful to see his joy at having the whole family together. Here is the family photo from this year (minus about 18 people):

This represents my dad and his brothers and sisters and their families. This gives you an idea of how large our family is. The extended family is huge! I'm constantly finding out about more cousins ;0). So, I hope everyone has a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Eat lots of turkey, spend time with loved ones, and then take a nap! :0)

Just where have you been young lady?

2007-11-14T09:22:00.000-05:00

Well, let me explain. I still don't have internet access at home. I've been meaning to get a card for my laptop, but have yet to actually do it. I'm not home much, so there didn't seem to be a good reason to spend the money. And, I've been cut back to part time at work, so I don't have much time to spend on here. That's my story and I'm sticking to it ;0).

So, as far as what has been happening in the last two months, I'll fill you in. I am pretty settled in my new digs...even though I want to strangle my roommate sometimes. It bothers me that even though she is home most of the day...she doesn't do anything. We have had a box of cleaning supplies and other things that she took out of the cabinets under the sink for the purpose of scrubbing the inside of the cabinet....that was a month and a half ago, and the box is still in the kitchen. I would do it, but it's the principle of it...you started it, you finish it.

Work has been extremely lacking for us, and I've been laid off for a few weeks...not to worry though, everything has been ok. I sold my Mazda and got what I wanted for it, so I had some extra cash after paying off the loan...bonus! I've been able to collect UC benefits, and had hoped that things would pick up, but I've started scouting for jobs.

It is funny that while with Tony I was quite the home body and that when I left I became quite the social butterfly so to speak. There is a little bar that I was in quite a bit with my dad when I was younger where I like to go and shoot pool. I used to be pretty good...and I still am ;0). I reconnected with people that I hadn't seen in years and made some new friends. I have been dating someone special too. He approached me one night to shoot a game of pool...and I beat him. OK, no big deal...right? Yeah, no. He wanted a rematch. I won again. Then he won. I think you know where this is going....I don't know how many games we actually played, but I know I won more games. So he decided he would call me Shark ;0). Every time I'd see him that is what my nickname was. So, he asked me out, we had a great time, and are still having a great time.

That is about everything in a nutshell. I'm doing well. I have lost a bunch of weight though because of stress and not eating, but honestly it's kind of nice because I'm back down to what I weighed in school. I will try to get a picture up in flickr, but I don't know when that will be. I will also try to get around and catch up on everyone as soon as I can. And, just in case I don't before the holiday....Happy Thanksgiving to everybody!

Changes

2007-09-11T11:48:00.000-05:00

Change is something that I think is difficult (to some degree) for everyone. I have always struggled with change. I am a creature of habit and/or routine, if you will. The bigger the change, the harder it is for me to adjust. As you all know, I've had quite a bit of big changes going on in a short period of time. That is part of the reason that I haven't been around much lately. I needed some time to take stock of the situation and deal with it.

Most of my stuff is finally out of Tony's house, so that is good I guess. My new roomie and I haven't killed each other yet, so that is also good. I'm finally starting to get settled. I really really really miss my dog, which as you have probably guessed is one of the hardest things for me to deal with right now. I miss Tony too, but we talk often so that is nice. I'm thankful that we are able to be friends.

As of right now, I don't have internet access at home, and I don't know when I might get it. We live in the boonies so I either have to pay a small fortune for a card for my laptop, or settle for dial up. I really don't want dial up. So, the only time I have to check in is at work and I've been crazy busy lately. So, don't think that I've completely disappeared...I'm still reading, I just don't have time to comment like I would like to.

So, all in all I'm not doing so bad. It could be worse and it could be better. I'm just taking everything one day at a time. It always amazes me how things work out. It may not seem like it at the moment, but I am sure that something good will come out of all of this. It better! ;0)

Bring on the waterworks

2007-08-27T09:56:00.000-05:00

As of today, most of my worldly possessions have been packed into boxes and moved to my new place. I still have a little bit left to pack, but the majority is out. I had a much more difficult time dealing with it than I had thought I would. Saturday I was fine, because I was still "coming home" that night. Sunday was a whole other story. I pretty much cried the whole day. I was glad that Tony and Lora were helping me to pack stuff up, because I really don't know how much luck I would've had doing it alone.

When it came time to leave to take our load over to Lora's place...I completely lost my shit. Saying goodbye to Buddy was a disaster. Watching Tony leave from Lora's was even worse. I know things always get worse before they get better, but that doesn't make me feel any better at this moment.

My parents are bringing my furniture today, so at least I'll be able to sleep on a bed tonight as opposed to the couch, so that's good. I am extremely hopeful that I will be able to bring Buddy over at some point, but I'm trying not to get my hopes up. I just don't know how he's going to do with another dog and a kitty. The last thing I want is to stress the animals.

So, it looks like I will be unpacking until Christmas, but I guess that is the norm when you move. I am trying to be as strong as possible, but not very successful thus far......*thinking happy thoughts*

I hate moving

2007-08-24T13:30:00.000-05:00

I seriously think that moving should be considered a form of torture. I have not yet actually started moving and barely have anything packed, but I'm fed up already. How can one person really have this much shit? I'm talking non necessary stuff that isn't junk that basically just takes up space. Anyone who has had to move knows exactly what I'm talking about.

I'm going to be moving in with a friend of mine. I figure splitting the bills is a good thing...as long as I don't kill her. She and I have been friends for about 16 years and I love her dearly, but she can get on my nerves. I'm sure that I get on her nerves sometimes too, but I'm much more laid back than she is.

Buddy will probably be staying with Tony...at least for a while. L has a golden retriever and I don't know how well Buddy will do with George. George is a sweet boy and loves everyone, but Buddy is very protective and jealous when it comes to me, so we will have to test the waters a bit before I decide weather he will be able to come with me (I hope so).

I've been going out quite a bit lately and shooting pool to get out of the house. I used to be pretty good so I am getting better now that I've been shooting. The bar that I frequent is my parents' old haunt and the owner jokes that now that they've moved that I'm taking dad's place. The only thing is I don't drink nearly the amount of beer that he does...usually ;0)

So, wish me luck trying to get motivated to pack...I'm going to need it. I hope to get some things moved this weekend, but we shall see how that works out.

Parents

2007-08-07T16:55:00.000-05:00

Don't get me wrong, I love my parents more than anything. But, they are not really helping me keep my composure right now. My mom called my crying the other morning because she felt bad that they just moved 2.5 hours away. I assured her that everything was fine and that it was perhaps a good thing for me to work out by myself. My dad on the other hand has me stressed out because I just know that at some point he'll have a few too many Miller Lites and want to call and harass Tony. Well, it's possible anyway. Tony is usually smart enough not to answer the phone.

So, not only am I stressing and being mopey, but throw two caring parents into the mix who are trying to help in there own way and we have ourselves a mess. Or I do should I say. But it too shall pass.

My boss's rental that I told you about....not a chance I'm staying there. I know my boss is trying to help me out, but it is just a tiny little.....shack? That might not be the right word, but lets just say it's not in the best condition....not horrible (maybe I'm being a bit snotty) but it's certainly not great. I've been looking through the paper for apartments and I've come to the conclusion that I may just have to leave Buddy behind. I obviously don't want to, but there are many places that don't allow big dogs and I don't know how fair it would be to force him from a big house into a small apartment. I don't want him to be uncomfortable and not have enough space. So, we shall see what happens there. I know that Tony would take excellent care of him for me, so that's not an issue.

I have a job interview tonight for an evening position, part time. So, I should finish getting ready. I will let you know how I make out ;0)

Almost

2007-08-05T19:02:00.000-05:00

Well, I know that I posted that Tony and I were trying to work on things, BUT at this time I'm afraid it's in vain. We have decided that it would be best for me to move out. I have gotten an offer from my boss to rent out his old house. This works out because he is fine with me having Buddy. See, I told you I have uncanny luck. While I am definitely heartbroken, as is Tony, our main goal is to preserve the friendship. We hope that this may bring us back together one day, but I am honestly not getting my hopes up as I don't want to get let down.

I haven't really finalized anything with my boss yet and I don't know when this may occur, but I am kind of relieved that everything is out in the open. So, I just wanted to let you know what was happening. I am going to try to keep posting, but we shall see.

In other news, the weekend was fantastic (except for the moving thing). The cancer benefit was awesome.....it was very hot out but everyone had a great time. After the benefit, I went home, showered and went to a local club to see another band play....totally awesome!!! I made some new friends and got to hear some great music.

I will be sure to let you know what's happening, but for now I need to go sit somewhere quiet.....

Thanking my lucky stars

2007-08-03T11:54:00.000-05:00

I must have done something good in a previous life or have really good karma. As far as the good karma goes, I always TRY to be nice to people and be a decent human being. That all being said, I feel like I am an extremely lucky girl. Yes, I've been going through some rough patches but that's life. I always find a way to deal or things just fall into place....see, the luck thing. I'm not bragging by any means, I'm just very grateful.

This morning when I went out to leave for work, I got in the tracker, turned the key and....clicking. I turned the key off and tried again...it tried to start then more clicking. OK, must be the battery. So, I gather my stuff and get in my Mazda (which just ran out of inspection in July) and head off to work. I was a bit late but my boss was not mad (it was only 5 min. or so). He had gone to a little restaurant close by and gotten us both breakfast so that was nice...see what I'm saying. So, we were eating our breakfast and I explain my car troubles to him and he agrees that it is probably the battery. Now we continue discussing where would be a good place for me to check for a new battery and out of nowhere he tells me to call the local battery store and check if they have it....and he'll put it on his American Express! Can you believe it? I didn't know what to say....lucky?

Long story short, he drove to my house and took out my old battery, took it to the battery place and bought me a brand new battery. I am still stunned by his generosity and kindness. My boss has always treated me as a daughter. We get on each others nerves, but hey thats par for the course. So, as I was saying, I don't know what I did to deserve it but I am ever so thankful!

I honestly don't know if luck is the right term to use but it seems fitting. If it's not because I am a good person, then I must come off as pitiful and in need of help ;0). Case in point: I was driving down the road a few years ago and my tire started to go flat. I pulled over (there was no service station nearby) and I put on my flashers and proceeded to change the tire. Now, I am fully capable of changing a tire...hell, I can change my own oil among other things concerning a vehicle. I am semi mechanically inclined. I had two people pull over to help me...one of which was a nice old man who probably would've had a harder time breaking the lug nuts loose than me. He so very sweetly said "I felt bad for you, you poor thing..." I just smiled and thanked him, as by this time the other man had shooed me out of the way and was going to town on the tire. So see...pitiful=Missy ;0).

So, now that the battery issue is taken care of (THANK YOU ED!!!!!!!!) I am ready to start the weekend. Tomorrow I will be going to a cancer benefit and it will be awesome (always is). Live music, lots of good food, lots of cold beer, and really great people. Not to mention that 100% of the proceeds goes to the three beneficiaries this year. How awesome is that? Saturday night my girlfriend and I will be going to see a friends band play, so it should be a great day all around. That means that I will sleep all of Sunday...maybe ;0p.

So, have a great weekend and don't do anything I wouldn't do....

You stink!

2007-07-27T07:49:00.000-05:00

No...not you. I would never say such a thing. Buddy stinks. I seriously think my dog has intestinal issues because the amount of gas that he produces is ridiculous. Now before you run away...this post is not all about my stinky dog, so bear with me...I just thought this was funny.

This morning I was in the bathroom getting ready for work as usual. Buddy was laying in his normal spot by the tub munching on his breakfast. You see Buddy is quite social and prefers to eat with company so I kill two birds with one stone and just bring his bowl into the bathroom with us. So, he was eating and I was brushing my teeth.....and all of a sudden he farts...loudly. Talk about clearing a room...I mean come on. This went on all morning. By the time I left for work my house smelled horrible.

Anyhoo, what I really wanted to post about was my plans for this evening. My friend Jen's birthday is today and she and her hubby are having a BBQ tonight to celebrate. I'm pretty excited because I love an excuse to have a party. I bought her a cute pair of shoes and a pair of earrings and I baked her a birthday cake. As far as I know I am spending the night at her house because I don't have a designated driver. I probably won't drink much anyway after last weekend, but better safe than sorry.

Saturday I am hoping for nice weather so I can go swimming. I would really like to go to the creek and swim, but noone will go with me. Everyone always votes for the pool...oh well. I will hopefully remember my camera and will get some pictures to post. I hope everyone has a great weekend!!

Live and learn

2007-07-24T08:47:00.000-05:00

Ok, where do I start? So much has happened since I last posted. Tony and I have been trying to work things out and things have been alright. Not perfect or horrible...but they are OK, so we will see what the future holds. At least we aren't in "I want to kill you" mode anymore ;0).

My parents finally found a house and we got them all moved this past weekend. While I am extremely happy for them I can't help but feel a bit selfish due to the fact that they now live three hours away. But, I will deal with it. Their house is really lovely and they have a spectacular view (they are up on a mountain) so as soon as I get time, I will upload the pictures.

The moving convoy consisted of my sister, brother in law, my uncle, my cousin, three of my dad's friends, my parents, and of course myself. We drove up to the new house on Saturday and got the U-haul unloaded. My uncle, cousin, and one of the buddies were driving back home and the rest of us were spending the night and returning on Sunday. After they left to go home the real fun began as it was time to start drinking.

Let me just say that I am normally not a big drinker. And I usually just stick to beer when I do drink. For some reason I lost all ability to make good decisions at that point. It was probably the campfire that we had going that did it ;0).... yeah, that's it, the fire. Long story short I drank mass quantities of beer (I have no idea exactly how much), some Baileys Irish cream (not much), and 3/4 of a bottle of wine. Yeah...I know. Strangely enough I was not as drunk as you may suspect as I was talking fine and I remember everything...but I was a bit stumble-y if you know what I mean.

When I woke up the next morning I actually didn't feel too bad...until I drank a cup of coffee. Lets just say that I was formally introduced to the new bathrooms quite well. I was so sick all day and had to make the three hour trip home....lesson learned.

I am now officially joke fodder because of this incident, but I think it's funny just the same. Did I happen to mention that all that alcohol was consumed by a 103lb woman? No....well no wonder I was sick ;0) My family is so proud I'm sure.

So, hopefully I will be back to posting more often...hopefully ;0) I've got some catching up to do, so here I go...

My heart hurts

2007-06-28T15:06:00.000-05:00

Just so everyone doesn't think that I've up and disappeared, I figured I'd better post SOMETHING. Well, I wish I had something happy or funny or warm and fuzzy...but I don't.
Tony and I have been having some issues that have actually been going on for a long time, but we are super good at ignoring them (kinda). So, the other night I suggested that we talk about some things because we weren't fighting about them and it just seemed like a good time.

I won't ramble on with the contents of the whole conversation, but I will summarize for you what we learned from our little chat...bullet style:

Neither one of us is really feelin' the love right now
We each go our own separate ways in our spare time
We are the best of friends...and want to keep it that way
I would like to get married and start a family...some time kind of soon
Tony doesn't know if he wants to get married and have kiddos...ever
Tony's priority in life at this moment is work (his job and his rental properties)
I tend to have an attitude quite a lot because I'm not happy and I take it out on Tony
Like, major 'tude
We aren't really sure where we see ourselves in five years
Lastly, we don't know if things are going to work out, but we don't want to end up hating each other and would rather just be friends if nothing else.

So, I guess you could say that (in a nutshell) Tony has quite a bit on his plate (that he didn't have before) and I have had to become second banana. This turn of events has caused me a great deal of hurt so I lash out.

The hardest part is that we really do love each other very much and don't want to turn our backs on each other. I think this might be a little harder on me because if we would decide to end our relationship I would have to move...and I don't deal well with big changes. Also, try finding somewhere to rent with a big dog like Buddy. I would be absolutely crushed to have to make that kind of transition without my dog at least.

As of right now everything is up in the air. We've talked (a really good talk) and we are just trying to figure things out. So, I my posting is more sporadic than usual this is why.

Monday, Monday

2007-06-18T07:32:00.000-05:00

I really want to thank you guys for cheering me up with your kind words regarding the last post. It really helped, so THANK YOU!!! I found a way to make myself feel better about the dinner situation. I told Tony that if he didn't like the menu, by all means cook your own. He said that's fine with him and I asked what we were having for dinner tonight and he informed me that I have to make my own...I just laughed at him. That's fine with me, but just wait till I tell him he has to shop for his own food ;0p. He hates the grocery store. He may think he can be more stubborn, but he has underestimated my intelligence on this.

As far as my grandpa...Well, my Mom and I went to visit him on Saturday. The new place that he is in is HUGE. It took us 30-40 minutes to get there from my house, so it wasn't too bad. It took us a while to find his room...there are just so many wings and hallways. So, when we finally found the right room, he had just come back from having lunch.

I noticed right away how sad he looked. I am sure that the change was hard for him as it would be for anyone, but I think he is uneasy. Saturday was his fourth day in there and the only place that he had gone was the dining room, which is just across the hall from his room. He is afraid to leave his room because he doesn't think he could find his way back. He also gets very winded, so for him to get all the way to the elevator is really draining for him.

I hope that once he gets a bit more settled he will do better. He has a nice roommate so maybe they will pal around together...I hope so!

I hope everyone had a great weekend! What did everyone do for Father's Day? Did anyone do anything exciting, or was it just relaxing?

I'm overwhelmed

2007-06-15T10:38:00.000-05:00

I feel like I have been chasing my tail lately. I can't seem to get anything done and I just feel anxious. I have noticed that within the last six years or so that I have developed an emotional issue that is sometimes very hard to deal with.

I have said before that I tend to be emotional, but not in an extreme sense. Chalk it up to being a very soft hearted person I guess. But when too many things happen in a short amount of time, I tend to lock down, get mopey, avoid people, and just generally keep to myself. I was never that way when I was younger ;0(. Anyway, I haven't been myself lately and I'm feeling a bit...lost, shall we say.

My dear grandfather has been in assisted living since last July and it has not agreed with him. He gets quite depressed and has had some health problems as I have written about before. On Wednesday he was moved to a full care nursing home. This is definitely in his best interest but there is no getting around the fact that his health is not getting any better. So, that has been upsetting, but I had been doing OK with the help of the family.

Also, Tony and I haven't spoken to each other all week and have been avoiding all contact (we are so mature). We rarely fight about anything so usually when there is an argument or one of us gets mad about something we ignore each other for a few hours then things are fine and we talk. Only this time I'm not willing to shrug everything off. Let me first say that I can take constructive criticism. I can also handle offhanded snide comments....from other people. But when a comment was made by Tony that was at best a mean jab really really hurt my feelings. The issue at hand was what we were having for dinner (beef cubes, rice, and carrots) and when we started eating I noticed he wasn't eating the beef and asked why. He could've very easily (and nicely) said that he didn't like it but instead he informed me that it tasted "like shit". He could've handled it better is all I'm saying.

So, this is why I have been hiding. I should be fine in a few days, so sorry for being such a drag. Is it me or does it seem like everyone has been posting less often? Must be the nice weather. ;0) Also, happy early Fathers' Day to any Dads out there!

Friendship

2007-06-07T11:52:00.000-05:00

On July 4, 1996 (I was 17) while on my way home from a friends house I lost control of my car on a sharp corner and crashed into a tree. My face hit the steering wheel because I had some slack in my seatbelt. My mouth was bleeding really bad and my face was starting to swell...but somehow I managed not to break any of my teeth thank goodness!

I bet you are wondering what the hell this has to do with friendship. Well, the accident doesn't have anything to do with it, but what happened AFTER the accident does, so bear with me.

My parents took me to the hospital, because why call an ambulance (this was before everyone had cell phones) when you can call your parents and really freak them out. So, we get into the ER and I am bleeding all over myself. The doctor is checking me out and discovers the reason for all the blood is a tear/hole under my top lip and into my cheek. I know this sounds nasty, but there were no external cuts on my face, this was on the inside. So, they get me all cleaned up and send me home.

I am obviously very sore and shook up after all of this, and I don't remember much after getting home. The next day is kind of blurry too. I'm not sure if one of my friends had called the house or if my mom called my friend Lora. Throughout the rest of the day the phone rang off the hook with my friends calling to check on me which made me feel better. I couldn't talk well as my lip and cheek were swollen, but I made due.

I honestly don't remember if it was that night or the next, but I was laying on the couch and I heard a car coming up our driveway...make that four cars. The gang had showed up to see how I was and cheer me up!!! We (my dad actually) built a fire in the fire ring in the back yard and we all sat around talking. Everyone was trying to make me laugh, but whenever I would try to smile my mouth would bleed.

That is a great memory for me because all my friends were there when I really needed it. It is a shame that over the years and as we all grow up, that sometimes those friendships fade.

"The gang"...that sounds funny...was mostly guys at that time. Four girls and seven guys. They were the friends that would stop what they were doing to help you if you needed it, or would go out and raise hell with you. Those were some good times....wait, the best times.

Most of us have lost touch for the most part. This is the part that makes me sad. I still see three people quite often, but the others...I haven't seen them in years. Why is it that it happens this way? It's curious. It happens to everyone in some capacity, but I really wish sometimes that I could go back, even just for a day, and relive some of the fun that we had. I could write so much more about this but....maybe some other time.

All about Missy

2007-06-05T09:33:00.000-05:00

Adam has tagged me once again to answer some questions, so here you go A-bomb ;0)

1. What was I doing 10 years ago? Hmm...Ten years ago I was 18 and graduating High School. It really doesn't seem that long ago, but boy does time fly. I was working at Wawa at the time (I think).

2. What was I doing 1 year ago? 1 year ago we were still trying to get settled into our new house and get some house projects finished. Needless to say we still have a lot to do ;0)

3. Five snacks I enjoy: Mint Chocolate chip ice cream, any kind of fresh fruit, soft pretzels, shrimp pasta salad, pirogies.

4. Five songs to which I know all the lyrics: I am kind of a freak when it comes to song lyrics. I memorize songs very easily. I know all the lyrics to so many songs I don't know where to begin. I have been known to demonstrate my talent for singing along to all the songs on my ipod much to the detriment of whoever is with me at the time ;0p

5. Five things I would do if I were a millionaire: I would pay off all of my/our bills, pay off my parent's/sister's debt, set up college funds for my nieces, I would invest, and of course...I would shop!!!

6. Five Bad Habits: I procrastinate all of the time, I have a mouth (sometimes) that would make a trucker and/or a sailor blush, quick temper, eating late at night, laziness.

7. Five things I like doing: Swimming, playing with the dog, fishing, going to new places to explore, spending time with family.

8. Five things I would never wear again: Oh my lets see...Big hair (the ozone is thanking me), pegged pants, scrunchie socks to match your outfit that were bunched up over said pegged pants, eye patches...When I was little I had to wear patches on my one eye because I had a lazy eye, and the patches were meant to strengthen the weak eye...I hated those things. And last would be any of the crazy colors of eye makeup that I used to love.

9. Five favorite toys: Toys huh? Well, my mp3 players, my computer,....I am really drawing a blank on this one...I guess my Xbox, how about my bathing suit because that means I get to go swimming, and I guess my fishing gear.

Alright, now that everyone sees how awesome I really am (sarcasm) I guess I am supposed to tag some people, but I will leave it open. If you would like to participate please do so and let me know. If you don't want to that's OK too. No one will come after you or anything.

So, on a scale of 1-10 how much of a freak am I? I read over these answers and think to myself ..."Good Lord you are dull" ;0) I hope everyone's Tuesday goes well!

Goals

2007-06-01T08:42:00.000-05:00

I have decided to try to make some small changes in my daily routine/life to try to be, for lack of a better word, better. Now, there are actually lots of things that I would like to accomplish, so the list may seem a bit over zealous, but if I can accomplish a few I will be happy. I don't expect to do everything all at once and my list is simply a guideline.

The list:

Try a new recipe once a week (or once every other week).
Walk the dog more often or go for longer walks...it's good for both of us.
Smile at everyone you come in contact with...even if you are having a crappy day...you might cheer someone else up.
Clean one room/area of the house per day so that by the weekend it's all done and time can be made for fun stuff.
Be more selfless/less selfish.
Actually use my sewing machine instead of watching it collect dust.
Learn Spanish (again)...I had 4 years of Spanish in school but would like to brush up and learn Latin American Spanish
Take a dance class
Take Buddy to obedience training (this is probably a lost cause, but it would be funny)
Be less hard on myself for my flaws and just keep trying to improve
Be less lazy ;0p
Go to bed a little earlier and get up a little earlier so I don't have to rush in the morning.

Well, I'm sure that I could come up with some more, but I think this is enough to start with. Anyone have any tips or advice for any of these things? How about any goals or accomplishments that you want to achieve? I may be a bit optimistic with my list, but as I said it is just a guideline for me to try.

I hope everyone has a great weekend! It is supposed to be overcast with possible rain all weekend, but we need rain. So, maybe I will dust off the sewing machine...;0) Happy Friday!

It's Summer!

2007-05-30T08:23:00.000-05:00

Well hello there! How was everyone's holiday? Good? I hope so! I ate mass quantities of cheeseburgers, grilled chicken, grilled pork chops, and rice and beans. I also got to go swimming which was really awesome because I LOVE to swim.

Tony's sister had the cookout at her house and she has a big in-ground pool. There was one guy...you probably know the one...who felt the need to throw people into the pool. It was funny the first few times, but got old pretty quick. I was already in the pool so, I was in the clear.

I did manage to get a little bit of color so instead of being casper white, I have moved into "slightly pasty" territory. Slowly but surely people. I am not one to bake myself in the sun (anymore) due to the fact that I am pretty fair complected and have a higher risk for skin cancer. My dad has skin cancer (he's a redhead) so I am careful about checking myself. But, I do like to be out in the sun and once I get a bit of color I tan pretty well for as pale as I am.

Anyway, I hope everyone had a great weekend. I must get back to work now ;0( Have a happy Wednesday!

Finally Friday

2007-05-25T09:47:00.000-05:00

I am so glad that this weekend is a long weekend because after this week, I need a break! My boss was in the hospital from Monday thru Thursday, so today is his first day back. That means that I was running the show (I do anyway, so that doesn't really mean anything). But, it has been more hectic than usual so I am going to go home tonight and relax.

Actually, I will be going to watch a softball game, then I will go home and drink a beer. Yes, that sounds good. Saturday we will be going to a cookout and watching the UFC fight between Chuck Liddell and "Rampage" Jackson. I can't wait to see that fight! I totally hope Chuck wins.

Anyone have any big plans for the Memorial Day holiday? I don't think we do, but I never know what's going on ;0p. I will be sure though to think about our troops (past and present).

I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday weekend. I hope to be tanner and more relaxed come Tuesday!

Love is in the air

2007-05-23T08:34:00.000-05:00

With all the lovey dovey-ness that comes with a wedding, I thought it would be a great time to post about how I met my other half. In August we will have been together for five years. Holy shit...that's kinda weird saying that ;0). Anyway...where was I? Oh, right...well our "story" is actually kind of corny, but it turned out well.

I had just started working for my current boss when I first met Tony. He had come into the store to talk to my boss about some flooring (Tony owns rental properties) . I immediately thought that he was pretty darn cute, but I was not single at the time. There were a few more times when he would come in looking for Ed, and if he wasn't here Tony would stop and chat for a few minutes. Nothing major, just friendly conversation. We were both with other people at the time so it didn't matter anyway.

Jump ahead two years....I had been laid off for a year and had just come back to work. I was sitting at my desk when the bell for the front door rang as someone came into the showroom. I got up and (this next part is 100% the truth) I thought to myself "maybe it's that cute contractor Tony"...I opened the door to go out into the showroom......and you guessed it, it was Tony. He smiled at me and asked where I had been. He extended his hand to shake my hand but for some crazy reason I hugged him (not that he minded).

At this time we were both single and he would come by fairly often "to talk to Ed" but everyone kind of saw right through that ;0). I kept waiting for him to ask me out but he never did. I thought maybe I was reading him wrong but it seemed like he liked me.

On one of his trips he had ridden his motorcycle (he had his helmet in his hand) so I asked him about it. I ride trail bikes and quads so I was interested. I told him he would have to take me for a ride on the bike sometime, figuring that I would know weather he was really interested or not. He immediately asked me "...how about tonight?". So, he gave me directions to his house and we went for a ride on the bike and he surprised me by taking me for dinner.

He let it slip at dinner that he probably would've never asked me out had I not initiated it because he felt shy...I really think that is sweet and funny now. But, the rest is history and we've been together ever since.

I also found out later that he had kept an envelope that I had written his name on (a bill for some carpet I think) just because I wrote it. Hey, I told you it was kind of corny.

Softball, twister, marriage, drinking, dancing...

2007-05-21T09:30:00.000-05:00

Well, this weekend was quite an adventure. So much was happening that I couldn't possibly fit it into one post without boring everyone half to death. So, I am simply going to focus on the wedding and reception since that was the most interesting part of the weekend.

I was inadvertently a half hour early to the church because I obviously cannot read.
The ceremony was beautiful...I don't think you need any more detail....most weddings are the same ;0)
The bride's dress was HUGE...or should I say the skirt of her dress was huge...she could've easily smuggled the bridal party under that thing (but it was really pretty)
Open bar at the reception!!
I did not manage to find a date to go with me (Where the hell were you Adam...did you make a wrong turn at Ohio? ;0p)
The bride's father kissed me at least four times (The bride and I have been friends since 7th grade so he has seen me grow up)
I wore a fancy dress and HIGH heels...and forgot my camera.
I managed not to break an ankle or make a fool of myself in said heels
Three children took it upon themselves to look up my dress.
I danced for four hours in heels after drinking and still did pretty good.

So, needless to say the bridal party was totally hammered and were quite amusing on the dance floor as the night progressed. I actually didn't drink that much as I was driving. I am still pissed at myself for forgetting the camera but the bride said she would make sure I got some pictures. So, how was everyone else's weekend? I hope it was nice. Anything exciting happen?

Weekend here I come!

2007-05-18T11:32:00.000-05:00

Boy am I glad that it is Friday! The week just seemed to drag on. I am going to be busy this weekend, but in a good way. Tonight we will be babysitting our niece so that should be fun. I am sure it will be a night of cartoons, twister, and "Missy, can we bake something?". She love to help me bake ;0p.

Also, my best friend from High School is getting married on Saturday so I am really excited for her! I hope I don' t cry too much though. I do have one small problem though...I don't have a date :0( Tony backed out at the last minute (last night) so, I have to go alone. Anyone wanna go? Open bar!!!!!!!! OK, anyway I even bought a new dress and high heels, but he wasn't swayed. I am hoping that the reception will be crazy. Knowing her family as I do, I am sure it will be ;0).

I am sure that the reception shenanigans will be good blog material come Monday, so be on the lookout for tales of drunk dancing and possible falling down in new high heels while dancing/drinking.

Sunday will probably serve as recuperation day. So, I hope everyone has a great weekend. Wish me luck in the heels. Seriously, anyone not doing anything on Saturday? NO? Oh well ;0p.

THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY!!

I'm thankful

2007-05-15T10:31:00.000-05:00

I was looking at what I have been posting lately, and it got me thinking. Quite a few of the posts are about things that are going wrong or just unpleasant things that I have been going through. There is absolutely nothing wrong with writing about those things and writing them out is cathartic and makes me feel better. That being said, it has been a while since I have written about something happy.

As is true for many, for every one bad thing in life there are so many more good things. Even just the little things. So I decided to cheer up by writing about what I am thankful for in my life. I will even spare my usual long-windedness and use bullets ;0). Your welcome!

So, I am thankful for the following things:

For a wonderful family who would do anything for each other, no matter what.
Good health.
The fact that I do have a job, even if it isn't wonderful and doesn't pay me enough ;0)
A roof over my head...even if it is a never ending construction nightmare.
Good memories...even when the house (my parents' house) is sold, I will still have the memories to look back on.
A loving partner (Tony) who excepts me for who I am, and what I am/am not.
My dogs...enough said ;0)

I try my best to see the bright side to everything, but sometimes it's hard. There are many more things that I am thankful for, but I don't want anyone falling asleep on me ;0)

So, I hope everyone is easing into the week without any problem! It is supposed to be warm and sunny here today, so that is good. Hopefully Buddy and I will take a long walk when I get home from work, that will be nice. Only three days till Friday!

I must be selfish

2007-05-14T09:08:00.000-05:00

A while back, I had written a post regarding the fact that my parents wanted to sell their house. I have also previously written about what a complete and utter sap I am. These two things in combination do not make me a happy camper right now.

My parents have found a buyer for their house. The house that I grew up in and have so many memories in (not that they don't). Even saying those things makes me feel like a whiny 12 year old. In all fairness, it is their house and they can do whatever they want with it, but that doesn't mean that I have to like it.

My parents built the house in....1989 or 1990 (I think) on property they bought from my grandmother. The 2.5 acres bordered the property that my grandmother's house was on and was part of the original property where my mom was born. I guess that is another reason why I can't see why they want to sell. They worked their tails off to clear the land to build (it was heavily wooded) the house by hand. I remember helping stack wood.

Being that mom and dad are getting older, they want to eliminate their debt and move upstate where the property is cheaper. I understand that, but I am really upset that they want to move AWAY. Why not buy something that is still close. They have a granddaughter coming at the end of summer, and they want to move.

I don't do well with change sometimes....can ya tell. It is hard for me to deal with major changes, especially anything involving anything emotional. It is a weakness of mine. For example, when my grandmother went into a nursing home and her house/property was auctioned it was sold to an amish neighbor who tore her house down and rebuilt on the site. I couldn't go up the driveway (you had to pass her house to go up our driveway) without getting upset.

So, the point of all this is that yes, I am upset about all this. But, I feel really selfish for feeling that way. I am happy for them, considering that this is what they want to do though. Any thoughts? I just needed to get that off my chest, so sorry for the long post ;0).

I don't wanna grow up....

2007-05-10T13:53:00.000-05:00

As I have previously mentioned, I have been hunting for a new job. I am currently an office manager for a retail flooring company. I handle all of the bookkeeping, payroll, scheduling, some sales, answering the phone, and whatever else comes up.

Each time I look in the paper or search jobs online, I have no problem finding accounting jobs or customer service jobs, but nothing very interesting. Do you know what I mean? They are all pretty much the same, except for the industries, but the accounting isn't that different.

So, seeing all of these positions has me thinking about what I would REALLY like to be doing. I went to Penn State University for a year and majored in Agriculture Science..just shut up...but college just wasn't my thing at the time. I would love to take some online courses, but I don't have the slightest idea what I would like to study. My problem is that I would love to study 10 different things, but that doesn't really make much sense now does it? No, didn't think so.

I actually keep coming back to nursing, but I am just unsure. I would also like to be able to travel a bit (even if just locally) and/or work from home, but I just don't know what I want to pursue.

So, what made you guys want to do what you do? Or, did it just kind of happen (that was me)? Do you enjoy your job/career? And, did you feel this frustrated when you were deciding which path to take? Wow, that a lot of questions ;0) Happy Thursday!

Oh the pain...

2007-05-07T07:29:00.000-05:00

This weekend brought the following things:

sunburn
2 flowerbeds full of flowers and mulch
clean laundry/house
achy muscles where I didn't know I had muscles
a twisted ankle
a gash/bruise on my shin
oyster stew
A picnic with my family
ice cream

Now, doesn't that sound like a busy weekend? I figured it was easier just to do bullets than to try to write all that stuff out. I am sure that you can devise that the sunburn and achy muscles are from planting the flowers. I also managed to clean the house and do some laundry that I hung out on the line so it smells wonderful. The ankle/shin injuries are courtesy of my beloved Buddy. We had gone outside for a potty break (for him, not me) and were coming up to the back porch. There is a step up, and I didn't have his leash tight and he was excited to go in, thus pulling me forward and catching me off guard. I twisted my ankle and in trying to catch myself I slammed my shin into the porch...OUCH! It is purple and bloody and swollen, but I sat there and laughed because there was nothing else I could do.

Now, the picnic. My parents, my sister, brother-in-law, and myself went over to my grandfather's "home" and took oyster stew and sandwiches and had a picnic in the pavilion by the creek. It was nice to sit in the sun, and I think he really enjoyed the company. Tony's mom brought ice cream over later and we sat on the porch and enjoyed the new flowers.

I had a pretty satisfying weekend, how about you? Did you do anything fun or interesting?

I've been tagged

2007-05-03T07:48:00.000-05:00

Adam was playing a game of Chinese Freeze Tag and invited me to play. The rules are that I must write 10 interesting/strange things about myself or habits that I have. Once I have come up with my 10 things, it is my turn to tag 10 other people to do the same. There are no tag-backs, so if someone has already done this they are "safe" ;0). So, without further ado...

I was born 10 weeks early and weighed 2lbs, 7oz.
I used to shoot professional fireworks, like you see on the 4th of July...yes, the big ones. Some of the racks that I lugged around weighed more than me.
I was a cheerleader in high school and although I was very small (4'10" and 90lbs) most of the time in our formations I was a base because I was one of the strongest girls.
I can belch louder than most people I know. My dad insisted I demonstrate my "skills" at the bar one night and everyone bought me a drink.
As you can see by #4, I am very much a tomboy. I have moments of sheer girlishness, and then we have belching contests...my dad says that those things make me comical ;0p
I have a hearty thirst for knowledge. I only went to college (Penn State) for one year, but I love to learn new things. I am always game to have someone teach me a new skill or to learn about something that I may have never heard of before.
I collect frogs. My collection actually started from me mentioning to someone that I thought a particular frog item was cute, and it stuck. People have been buying me froggie things ever since.
There isn't much that I don't like as far as music. I have very eclectic tastes I guess. On my ipod I have everyone from Breaking Benjamin, The Kinks, John Lee Hooker, Rascall Flats, Pink Floyd, The Ramones, Metallica, and so on. I think you get the point. (Sorry, I am too lazy to link them)
Considering that I like many different type of music, I go in phases as far as what I listen to primarily. When I was in high school I was on a country kick, and went line dancing three times a week. Line dancing is also really good cardio!
I would've never guessed that I would have a blog. I do not write well, and I have a short attention span, so I really didn't think I would like it...I was wrong ;0).

Well folks, there you have it. I seriously hope no one lapsed into a coma or anything. Also, I hope that I haven't weirded anyone out or scared anyone away. Now, I guess I need to pick some people to tag...I don't have 10 people who haven't been tagged so I will tap:

Rockdog
Blublood
Angela
Heather
Melly
Laundry Broad
Mama Jen

That is all I have, so if there is anyone who would like to do it, let us know so we can read your list.

Well Hello there ;0)

2007-05-02T07:22:00.000-05:00

Wow, it seems like such a long time since I was inclined to write anything. Well, I have sort of been in a funk lately, so that is what I am going to blame it on. We all have those times where things just don't go as we would hope or we just feel a little off. I have been experiencing both, so bear with me.

I mentioned that I was job hunting didn't I? Yes, I did. Well, I interviewed with two companies. The one that I was hoping for...didn't get the position. The other...I was offered a position, but they want me to take a pay cut. So, no luck yet. Oh, but my boss put me back on full time, so that is pretty awesome!

On Monday, Tony and I went to Lowe's to buy some garden lights for our flowerbeds. The lights were on sale and we had a coupon, so that was a good thing ;0). We ended up out in the garden section looking at flowers. Little did we know that we were about to witness an incredible lack of cashiering skills.

We get into line to pay for our things, so far so good. We get up to the cashier, a very cheery lady who is smiling like there is no tomorrow. So, she proceeds to scan our items (only 4) and totals our bill...$101.70 was the damage, so Tony gave her $102.00 in CASH. Smiley counts the money twice before trying to enter the amount into the computer. She types in 102 and hits cash, which if anyone has worked a cash register before...it registered $1.02. Let me just cut to the chase and tell you that she typed it that way AT LEAST five times. She could not figure out what was going on. Then we tried to help her by saying that she needed to type the point, and so on. So, she finally got it and her excuse....are you ready for this? She apologized (still smiling though) and said that she wasn't used to working in the evenings, that her normal schedule was in the morning.....WHAT?

Let me just say this...I didn't know that cash registers changed depending on what shift you work. Oh, they don't. OK, good it isn't just me then. ;-) Even though she was having some trouble, I will give her credit for being bright and cheerful. Most times they look disinterested at best.

I hope everyone is having a good week so far! Hopefully I can get back into the swing of things STAT. At least it's all downhill from here...come on Friday!! ;0)

Spring? Is that you?

2007-04-23T10:23:00.000-05:00

Let me just say how happy I am that it was nice out this weekend. I mean seriously, I am so fed up with the cold. I spent the entire weekend outside, and it was fantastic! I pulled weeds out of my flower beds and turned the dirt so they are ready to go when I buy some plants. I also made a new flower bed around a tree in my back yard. The tree is really the remains of a tree, but is too high (in my opinion) to be considered a stump. I will have to take a pic and you can decide.

Sunday after church I went to visit my grandfather. He was feeling pretty spunky and was sitting outside enjoying the sun. After leaving pappy, I went home and sat out on my porch and watched the birds and squirrels. So, it was a pretty lazy day.

When Tony came home on Sunday he was digging in front of our shed, basically just messing around and found an underground "space" beside our garage. It looks as though it was supposed to be a housing for a propane tank and an access to the water line. I will be sure to get a picture of that as well.

So, how was everyone else's weekends? Relaxing I hope!

***side note: I just wanted to let everyone know that sometimes I am slow at reading the comments, but I will do my best to respond because you guys are the best!! So, please don't think I'm being snobby...just pokey ;0)

What a way to start the day!

2007-04-19T07:18:00.000-05:00

When my alarm clock went off this morning I was pissed as usual...how dare it want to wake me out of a good sound sleep...bastard. So, I get my lazy butt out of bed, which means I had to pull my legs out from underneath Buddy to do so. I stumbled to the coffee pot and fixed myself a cup of joe. OK, so none of this is really exciting and is par for the course most mornings. BUT, when I went to get a shower this morning I took Buddy into the bathroom with me. This is not abnormal as he doesn't like to eat by himself, so I kill two birds with one stone and bring his bowl in while I am getting ready. He eats and is done by the time I am so it all works out. So, I got in the shower and Buddy was on the rug in front of the tub as usual. I begin washing my hair and I feel a draft. I rinse my face and open my eyes and there is a furry brown head poking in through the curtain trying to drink the shower water. I laugh at him and ignore it (he likes to drink from the spigot). By the time I get to conditioner, he's still watching me. I don't know about anyone else, but I don't particularly like being watched in the shower, even if it is just the dog.

I continue to try to ignore him when all of a sudden, he decides it would be a fabulous idea to join me in the shower. That's right, he just hopped in the shower like that was exactly what he was supposed to do. I am standing there laughing, wet, and soapy, wondering what the hell I am going to do with a soaked dog who, as soon as he gets out and shakes off is going to cover my bathroom in wet dog fur...GAH! He is so lucky I like him ;0)

So, needless to say I had to clean my bathroom, dry my dog, wash the shower out, and then I was able to get dressed and ready for work. Amazingly I was only two minutes late. I'd say that's an interesting way to start out, don't you? How do you start your day out...cool and calm, or calamity and chaos (feeling dramatic today, can you tell? ;0))

I hope everyone has a good Thursday! How do you like the pink? Too much?

If not for bad luck I would have none at all

2007-04-17T22:27:00.000-05:00

You know I really hate being such a drag, but I don't have a good thing to write. Not one thing. I have been having nothing but shitty luck. I've been fighting mild depression. I totally suck guys, I'm sorry.

I mentioned before that I had been cut back to part time at work. Well, I am finally at a point where I HAVE to look for something else. I have been at my job for 6 years and I have a great boss (most of the time) who treats me like a daughter. I am sickened at the fact that he will have no idea what to do if I go elsewhere. He has no computer knowledge at all and barely gets his own work done. The way the economy is right now there is just no business.

I had a job interview yesterday for a part time position and was involved in a minor car accident. Everyone is fine...I have no damage to my car, but the other driver has some scratches, so that means I have to pull my $500 deductible out of my ass, as I have no money right now.

The one nice thing that I can think of is that I took my grandfather a fresh salad, apple caramel crumb cake, and apple cider for dinner tonight and he smiled at me like I was the best person in the world, that was nice. ;0)

It is never fun to start over in anything, weather it be work, relationships, or home. Don't get me wrong I am discouraged, disappointed, and frustrated, but in light of the Virginia Tech shootings I should hold my tongue and be thankful that none of my family or friends were killed in the tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who were touched by this horrible event.

Here is to hoping for better days!!

28 and holding

2007-04-12T08:41:00.000-05:00

Well, 28 years ago today, my poor mother was in the hospital having an impatient child removed from her tummy! That's right today is my birthday ;0) I was born 6 or 7 weeks early, I am not sure exactly. Mom teases me that I was in a big hurry to be on with it. I weighed in at a whopping 2lbs 7oz...I know what big baby huh.

My mom called me this morning at 8:10 (time I was born apparently) and sang to me, so that was a funny way to start off. I have no idea what we will be doing tonight, but hopefully I won't have to cook ;0)

One more day till Friday...yay for that. I hope everyone has a great day! I am going to try to.

Bunnies and Candy and Eggs and Ham and...oh yeah Jesus

2007-04-06T09:37:00.000-05:00

I am so freakin glad that it is Friday! This was a week that I just could not wait to be over with. It is of course Good Friday, which means that...duh Sunday is Easter. I know, I am so bright sometimes. Anyway, speaking of the Easter Bunny...I wanna know why that bastard doesn't bring me a basket...I deserve chocolate and jelly beans just as much as the kids do ;0). Just kidding...kinda.

My Easter weekend will be busy, but not as bad as usual, so that is good. Either tonight or tomorrow I will be making peanut butter eggs for Easter favors for the adults...yummy. I will be making a small basket for Tony, just because if I were to make one for all the nieces and nephews, I would be broke. Sunday, I will be going to the sunrise service at church where we get to light candles...should be very nice. We will be having lunch at my parents' house and we will be taking my grandfather (as long as he feels up to it) and then dinner at Tony's parents' house. So, I should be a fat cow by Sunday evening.

I hope everyone has a great weekend and a Happy Easter. May the Easter Bunny bring you lots of goodies, but no rabbit poop ;0)...Hippity Hoppity Easter's on it's way...

Something good needs to happen

2007-04-04T12:31:00.000-05:00

Things just have not been too peachy in Missyland lately. My grandfather's trip to the hospital was the start of two crappy weeks. I don't remember if I mentioned it (and I'm too lazy to look) but the doctors finally let Pap come home. He is doing well and is happy to be out of the hospital. Here is a list of the other shit that has been going on recently:

My hours at work got cut back, which means I am part-time now.
I have been unsuccessful in finding a part-time job to make up what I lost at my current job.
My niece turned five (not bad...just made me feel old)
One of my very close friend's brother committed suicide...he was only 30
Work has been bad due to some people's attitudes.
The newbie left and we hired another newbie, so I have to train him.
I have so much housework to do I could scream.

As you can see, things have been less than great, so I would really like for something nice to happen. I don't think I can take much more negativity. So, I hope everyone's week is going well so far! Happy Wednesday ;0)

Questions...answered

2007-03-28T10:51:00.000-05:00

The following questions were given to me by Underachieving Mommy in response to my request to be interviewed.

If you would like to play along:

The Rules: Leave me a comment saying, "Interview me.” I respond by asking you five personal questions (I will leave these questions for you in my comments) so I can get to know you better. If I already know you well, expect the questions may be a little more intimate! You WILL update your journal/bloggy thing/whatever with the answers to the questions (please don't leave your answers in my comments unless you don't have a blog). You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the post. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

Here are my questions:

1. You are given the choice between:
a)Having one question--i.e. What is the origin of life?--of your choice answered with absolute certainty.
b)Receiving a briefcase with One Million Dollars.
Knowledge or Money?

Well, I would love to say that I would take knowledge...but I would probably take the money. I honestly think that sometimes ignorance is bliss, and sometimes knowledge can be a burden. So, I'll take B. It would be nice to pay off all of my debts and have some fun money.

2. What characteristics(of others) do you absolutely despise?

I would have to say dishonesty, being hypocritical, and acting as though you are better than someone else.

3. What did you dream of becoming when you were a child?

When I was a little girl, I dreamed of being a nurse when I grew up. I had a strong urge to want to help people. Later I decided I wanted to be an Archaeologist because I loved digging in the dirt and finding those awesome artifacts was very interesting. 20+ years later I sit behind a desk...go figure. ;0)

4. If you were were told tomorrow you had to choose between the following:

a)You only have one year left to live.
b)You can live for 50 more years in good health if you totally abandon all family and friends--no email, no phone, no visits, nada. Assume you could start a new life in a location of your choice.
Which would you choose and how would you live out the remainder of your days?

Hard question. I assume that the one year option was healthy and happy. I think I would choose A. My family is very close and if I had to live fifty years without them, it wouldn't matter where I was, it would suck. I would live my last year to the fullest. I would at least know how long I had, and would be able to do what I wanted before the end.

Doing better

2007-03-28T09:09:00.000-05:00

First of all I would like to say thank you for all the kind words and thoughts regarding my grandfather! He was moved from intensive care to a regular room yesterday, and will probably be able to come home in a few days. The doctors have stabilized his blood pressure, which is really the only thing that can be done at this point. He is doing well, but anything could happen at any time unfortunately. He is ready to go home and get ready to go fishing (his words) ;0)

So, at least we are half way to Friday, which is always a good thing! Happy Hump Day everyone!!

Not a good weekend

2007-03-26T10:06:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry but this is probably going to be a long post...FYI

Friday afternoon I am driving home from work. I have already made my pit stop at the bank to deposit my paycheck, so I am free to go home and start the weekend. I had a few things planned...hang out with my cousin, go to a little party at my girlfriend's house, and just generally be kinda lazy ;0)

Unfortunately, my weekend didn't go as planned. As a matter of fact it came to a screeching halt when my cell phone rang on my way home.

*Phone rings*

Me: "Hello"

Mom: " Hi Honey"

Me: "Hey mom, what are you doing?"

Mom: "Honey, Pappy has been taken to the ER, dad and I are here at the hospital"

Me: "WHAT?!?!"

Long conversation short...My grandfather was at the senior center and was having lunch. He began having bad chest pains and the staff thought it was best to call the ambulance. Once they got him to the hospital and ran some tests, the consensus was that he has an aortic aneurysm.

They immediately started him on medication to keep his blood pressure low, so there is as little pressure on the bulge as possible. Due to his age (89) and health the doctors decided that operating to correct it was out of the question.

I spent all day Saturday and Sunday in the hospital with him, along with all the other family members. Sunday when the doctor made his rounds, he gave us more bad news. What Pap had was not actually an aneurysm, but an aortic dissection...which is of course worse than the aneurysm. The treatment is the same, and if his blood pressure is too high the tear will get bigger and eventually will burst open and he will bleed to death.

We are playing a waiting game now, as the doctors have no way of telling us how much time he has left. It could be days, weeks, or months. They just don't know.

My grandfather called me over to him yesterday because he needed a drink and told me that he is looking forward to meeting the Lord and seeing my grandmother again. I am so glad that he is calm and happy. I have been crying and feel very sad, but I also feel calm...it's sort of strange.

He knows what is going on around him and is not disoriented, but he sleeps most of the time which I am thankful for. So, think some happy thoughts for us, and if you pray, your prayers would be much appreciated!

Scared the piss out of em'

2007-03-23T10:46:00.000-05:00

Last evening when I was done making dinner and eating (broiled flounder ;0D), I tried to convince Tony to go on a bike ride with me. It was soooo nice out yesterday. Warm and sunny...(yay! Spring is finally here) Unfortunately, when I finally got him into the idea, the sky had darkened and threatened to rain...which it did for the rest of the night off and on.

So, I cleaned up the kitchen and went upstairs to my computer room to play with my best friend Internet ;0p. Tony came strolling in a proceeded to harass and pick at me (I guess he was bored) and it turned into a wrestling match. Let me just tell you that he cheats and tickles me, but if I tickle back enough to win he pouts.

As we were roughhousing, I am laughing and yelling, he's laughing and yelling. Usually this is where Buddy comes in. Buddy is very protective of me. He can't even stand if Tony and I sit really close together...jealous much?. So, normally he would've been all over Tony at this point, but he was nowhere in sight. So, I start yelling for him (for help, of course) and Tony tells me the door to the bedroom is closed, which is where the dog was. We carried on for another 15 min. and then went to go get Bud.

Mind you, Buddy is a pisser...you know the kind...gets all sorts of excited and kind of tinkles. He doesn't do it all of the time, but look out if he actually has to pee. We open the door and he is so worked up from us wrestling without him that he is leaving trails all over the carpet where he is running and jumping around. The more I yelled for him to go downstairs, the more he leaked!! It is during all this that I notice that he has already taken the liberty to piss in the middle of my bedroom floor. He is a big dog guys, with a big bladder...we are not talking a small puddle.

He was so upset because he thought Tony was hurting me that he peed, so I really couldn't yell at him. He wouldn't leave my side the rest of the night and was giving Tony the evil eye. That's my boy! He even got a little snappy at bedtime when Tony tried to get him off the bed...let this be a lesson...Don't mess with mommy ;0p

I hope everyone has a great weekend!! Any big plans?

Thank GOD It's Friday!!!

Lets take a trip down memory lane

2007-03-22T10:41:00.000-05:00

I hope that I am safe in assuming that most people went on family vacations/trips when they were young. Well, this time of year always used to get exciting for me because I knew that our annual camping trip would come in August.

Our yearly trip consisted of at least four families, sometimes six or seven depending on who's schedule would allow for it. We were all like one huge family. A very loud, disorderly, somewhat obnoxious, fun loving, big family. All of the adults were long time friends and all of us kids pretty much grew up together. I of course was usually the only girl, not that that mattered, seeing that I acted more like a boy at that age.

We camped at the same campground every year, and always had the same site. Our site was a huge open space by the pool because we needed the room for all of the tents. Think tent village here people ;0). Our trip always coincided with a charity event in the town which was called the "Fanny Float". It sounds funny, but all it really was was mass amounts of people tubing down a section of the Susquehanna river. I think the charity was Muscular Dystrophy or Multiple Sclerosis. You made donations or bought t-shirts and floated down the river.

Floating down the river was always the high point of the trip, and was always on the last day. It took a few hours to do, and everyone would tie their tubes together, so it was basically a big party on the river. People would have coolers strapped to the tubes, filled with beer, or soda and food.

I don't think the event runs anymore which is really a shame. We went for 10 years straight, ever since I was a year old. I never got to enjoy the "adult fun", but had such a blast as a kid playing in the river, camping, roasting marshmallows on the fire, and all that good stuff. The weekend was a big party for the adults.

I couldn't find much online about it to back me up so you guys don't think I'm nuts, but I do have pictures. I will try to get some on tonight. Sorry for the long post, but I really enjoyed remembering those times ;0)

So, what kind of trips/vacations did you take with the family as a kid? If it was somewhere different all the time, did you have a favorite place?

Have a happy Thursday!!

It's quiz time ;0)

2007-03-21T13:22:00.000-05:00

Ok, so for lack of anything to write, here are some of those addicting little quizzes that I took. Let us know how/what you scored if you take any of them!

Your Personality is Somewhat Rare (ESFP)

Your personality type is playful, charming, open minded, and energetic.

Only about 7% of all people have your personality, including 9% of all women and 5% of all men
You are Extroverted, Sensing, Feeling, and Perceiving.

How Rare Is Your Personality?

Your Quirk Factor: 41%

You're a pretty quirky person, but you're just normal enough to hide it.
Congratulations - you've fooled other people into thinking you're just like them!

How Quirky Are You?

You've Changed 64% in 10 Years

Compared to who you were ten years ago, you've changed a great deal.
In fact, you're probably in a completely different phase of your life - and very happy about it!

How Much Have You Changed in 10 Years?

You Are An ESFJ

The Caregiver

You are sympathetic and caring, putting friends and family first.
A creature of habit, you prefer routines and have trouble with change.
You love being in groups - whether you're helping people or working on a project.
You are good at listening, laughing, and bringing out the best in people.

You would make a great nurse, social worker, or teacher.

What's Your Personality Type?

OK, enough with the fluff...I hope everyone has/had a good Hump Day!!

Back to the old grindstone

2007-03-19T12:36:00.000-05:00

Monday's suck! But I am sure that you already know that. I have a funny story to tell you guys. My boss came into my office on Tuesday carrying a bouquet of flowers for me...Awww, I know. He goes to the central market and likes the lady who sells the flowers, so don't read anything into that...he just wanted to flirt with the vendor. So, he walks in with the flowers and says ....are you ready for this? No, I am serious...you sure...Ok..he said:

Boss: "Happy Valentines Day. I know I'm a day early, but these were pretty."

Me: *Blink* "What?"

Boss: *Looks really confused*

Boss: "Isn't tomorrow Valentines Day?"

Me: "Um...No" (It would've been March 14) "You are a month behind" *Laughs hysterically*

Boss: *Laughs* "Boy, I feel dumb"

Me: *not saying a word*

Guys, that was so funny. I could not comprehend the stupidity. So anyway, I had to tell you that.

What did everyone do for St. Patty's Day? I lounged around the house and watched tv. I'm Irish, but had no desire to go out in the snow.

I had an awesome Sunday. Church was better than usual, and afterwards I came home and made a big breakfast. After I was done stuffing myself I went to visit my Pap. I am glad that I went to see him because he was really lonely. He says that no one comes to visit him, but I don't know that for sure, as his memory isn't what it used to be. I took him some goodies to snack on...some apple cinn. muffins, peanut butter crackers, and some sprite.

Pap is in an assisted living home. Understandably, he is upset at this. We had a nice visit. I stayed about 2.5 hours and we watched some tv, looked at some pictures, and chatted. He seemed in better spirits by the time I left, so that made me feel good. He told me that when trout season is in that we will have to go fishing at the creek behind the home. I told him that sounded like a fantastic idea!

I hope everyone has a tolerable Monday!! I didn't want to push it ;0)

Snow Sucks!!

2007-03-16T21:57:00.000-05:00

I just can't believe this weather we are having. We have like a foot of snow and it's still coming...it was 70+ degrees here yesterday. This means that tomorrow will be spent shoveling and making hot chocolate.

I finally got my ipod situation figured out. The problem was the file types. It seriously took me 2 seconds to fix once I figured it out...oh well, at least it is fixed now ;0)

In the time that I was in my computer room messing with the ipod and downloading some more music Tony had Buddy in our bedroom ripping some boxes to shreds. Buddy loves to rip boxes apart. I don't know why, but he does. It is funny because he whips his head all around and really gives that box hell. ;0p Unfortunately the cardboard doesn't clean itself up, so I must go clean up the aftermath.

I hope everyone has a great weekend! I will be shoveling ;0)

pffft...new technology

2007-03-14T10:44:00.000-05:00

I think I am getting stoopider the older I get. Does anyone else feel that way, or is it just me? I have been messing around trying to fix my ipod for two weeks. I had problems with it skipping songs after I had updated it, so I reset it. Even after I reset it and reloaded my music I am having problems, more so than before. Damn technology.

I could very easily use the Zen Sleek Photo that I have, which was a gift from my very awesome Mom, but in order to play it in the car I have to use one of those little battery operated transmitter things that doesn't even charge the battery = sucks. So, I actually like the Zen better, but I like the dock for the ipod more...are we on the same page now? Good.

So, if anyone has any suggestions, I would appreciate any guidance. Another testament to the decline of my intelligence is the fact that I have had a new laptop for no less than 6 months and it has been rarely used. I honestly didn't know how I was going to transfer all of my music that is on my desktop. My CD-RW drive on that computer won't let me burn CD's, and I really didn't know how else to transfer the files. I think I have a solution now, and I am sure that there is probably a simple way to do it, but I'm retarded. I can configure the network at work, and do things like that, but something relatively simple...come on. ;0)

So, anyway I feel better now that I ranted a little. I hope everyone has a happy hump day! ;0)

Trip to the Lock

2007-03-12T08:17:00.000-05:00

Well, I am happy to say that I finally have something to write about! I know, I can't believe it either. I ended up staying home from work on Friday because my cold was kicking my ass. So, Friday was a wash, as I didn't really get out of bed. Saturday I was feeling better and managed to get some laundry done...no fun, but can't go to work in pj's now can I...NO!

Sunday was pretty freakin awesome. We had our niece overnight on Saturday (she's about to turn 5) so Sunday morning we had pillow fights, wrestled, and played twister. She didn't want to leave when it was time. After she left we did some work in the attic, but it was so nice outside for a change that the work got old real fast.

I convinced Tony that it would be nice to go for a drive...I love to do that. I suggested going down to a place called Lock 12, which is near Holtwood Dam. It's only 20 minutes away from our house, but it's a neat place to walk around.

Lock 12 is one of my favorite places to go in the summer. You can hike down to the Susquehanna river (if you are careful of the snakes). Oh, and the chance that the warning sirens from the Dam don't scare the crap out of ya ;0) (not likely to happen, but sounds good)

There is a double Limestone kiln that you can look down into:

If you walk the trail then the next thing you come to is a small bridge over a stream, which is very pretty.

I love water, so I usually end up in the stream playing like a little kid, but it was a bit too cold and very muddy yesterday. Next up is the lock itself, which you can walk inside of. It was really wet and muddy so I didn't take any pictures from inside of it.

I'm sorry that the pictures are not good, but I forgot the camera and had to rely on my camera phone, but at least I have pictures. ;0)

The last one is supposed to be a picture of the Normanwood bridge. I wish I could've gotten some shots up on the bridge, but there is no where to stop. The Susquehanna looks pretty from up there.

I tried to get Tony to go to Lock 15 yesterday too, but he didn't feel like it. So, maybe once it gets nice consistently I will be able to share some good pictures. Hiking and visiting places like these are one of my favorite things to do. I love to be out in the woods!!

So, what did everyone else get into this weekend? I hope that everyone had a good one! Anyone get messed up with daylight savings? Well, being that it is Monday I should go get some work done. So, here's to one day closer to Friday ;0) (I can wish can't I?)

At least it's something :0)

2007-03-08T11:58:00.000-05:00

I "borrowed" this from Rockdog. So, at least I posted ;0)

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Medicine head

2007-03-06T11:52:00.000-05:00

Well, here we go again. Lets play pass the cold around...tag I'm it. Tony made sure to give me the cold from hell that he's been fighting. Last night I dosed up on Nyquil and vicks due to the fact that I couldn't breath. So, this morning I wake up and feel like I am as high as a kite..yay!

I managed to get to work this morning, but still felt pretty loopy. I took some dayquil for my stuffy head, and either it is a big fat liar that it doesn't make you sleepy, or the Nyquil is STILL kicking my ass.

So, anyway I feel like shit and it is very cold and windy outside today. Work is totally sucking because we have an advertising meeting this afternoon and my boss can't make up his mind what he wants to do. That, and I can't concentrate very well. So, I hope everyone has a decent day today...I am going to go find a corner to nap in ;0).

Time flies

2007-02-28T09:53:00.000-05:00

Wow. I seriously can't believe that tomorrow will be the first day of March. Didn't we just have Christmas? Mind you, I am not complaining about spring coming...I am all for that, but it is really amazing how fast time passes.

I am so ready for spring to come so I can get outside and plant some flowers. Although, if I want to be in decent shape by the time it is warm enough to wear shorts, I should really get the lead out if ya know what I mean.

I am lucky enough not to have to suffer through allergy season, as Tony is a snotty, sneezy, itchy, mess, so yay me for that. I get kind of giddy when it starts to warm up. I just love being outside, even if it is just sitting on the porch lounging. I also really like to hang my laundry out to dry...love that smell!

So, here comes March, and before we know it, it will be October...isn't that just the way it works? ;0) Anyone have a favorite spring activity? Or just a favorite thing about spring?

I'm getting tired of this

2007-02-23T10:13:00.000-05:00

I had to say goodbye to another family member yesterday. My great-aunt passed away and yesterday was her funeral. It is hard when you get to the age where all of your aunts, uncles, and grandparents are getting up there in years. When I was younger, I remember going to a few services, but this is the third one in less than a year. I love seeing my family members, but not under such circumstances.

The service was lovely and touching. Her grandson made everyone cry when he got up to speak about her, and everything was just as she wanted it. So, after the service, the family had a lunch, so I got to talk to some family, and eat...so that was good.

I didn't have to go to work afterwards, so my parents and I went to my dad's favorite bar. My mom doesn't drink, and I wasn't in the mood to do so, so we decided to shoot pool. My dad is a great shooter, and my mom is pretty good as well.

Mom and I were the only ones shooting for a while, as there weren't many people there to begin with. Surprisingly, I was doing most of the winning. I'm not to bad myself, but I rarely beat my dad. Long story short...we spent most of the day shooting, and as more people came in, some of the guys were trying to be competitive and were putting their quarters up to play....I beat all except one. So, that made me feel pretty good.

So, yesterday was bittersweet, I guess that was the point of this rambling mess. I am totally glad that it is Friday, and I hope everyone had a good weekend!!

I want to leave you with one thing that the preacher said at the service. I have heard it before, and you may have as well, but it is very true.

"The Dash" by Linda Ellis

I Suck...I know

2007-02-19T13:05:00.000-05:00

I must admit that I enjoy reading other blogs much more than I like updating my own...I know what a shock! So, I wanted to make an appearance before everyone deserts me ;0)

We had a bastard of a snow storm last week, and I am still sore from shoveling out. Of course, New York had it worse, but I still feel the need to bitch. I had a couple days off due to the weather, but I think I would rather work than shovel. I did get some cleaning done at home, so that was good.

My dog is hilarious in the snow. He has to be leashed to go outside, but he still tries to take off running.....he just drags me behind him. He tries to get us to take him out every five minutes so he can go eat some more snow....what a knucklehead ;0)

I will tell you this story quickly, because I am sure that it is funnier to everyone but me ;0) The other morning, I get up and proceed to get dressed to take Buddy out for his morning constitution....now mind you the snow is hard, so I didn't bother putting on my boots, and opted for slippers...do we see where I am headed with this? So, we get to the door, I open it and Buddy decides that it is a fabulous idea to yank me off the porch, out of my slippers and across the snow to the big pile of snow so he could piss. Now, I am laying on the ground in my pink jammies, bare footed, no gloves, and severely pissed off. I mean, he literally drug me across the snow...the neighbors should consider themselves lucky that my pants didn't get pulled down. So, I had to walk across the snow in my bare feet, to the porch where my slippers were still laying where I had stood the moment before....what a way to start the day off!!

Although I didn't see the humor in it at the time...typing this I was laughing to myself the whole time! Happy Monday (if there is such a thing) ;0)

Wanna be my Valentine?

2007-02-09T10:01:00.000-05:00

So, is anyone ready for Valentine's Day? I'm not that's for sure! Is there anyone who chooses to ignore Valentine's Day for the sheer commercialism of it? I think it's a bunch of crap, but it is nice to do something romantic with your "other half" ;0).

This weekend I am going to make some sugar cookies..yum! I love to bake, so I am excited...even if I will be baking by myself. I plan on doing a Valentine theme with the cookies, cause I have some cute cookie cutters. Two years ago at Easter dinner I was in charge of bringing a dessert, so I got the bright idea to make something for each individual.

First of all A.C. Moore to me is like crack to a junkie, just so ya know. I saw an idea for cookie flowers on sticks on their website, so I bought everyone an Easter mug for $1, and then made four cookies per person (Easter theme), and decorated them accordingly. I put foam in the mugs, poked the cookie pops in, covered the foam in Easter grass, and topped with jelly beans. So, I was thinking of doing something similar for Valentine's Day.

So, what do you think? Good idea? Would you buy something like that for your sweetie? I know that I have pictures of the Easter cookies, but I don't know where they are...I'll have to look. I was also entertaining the idea of making some chocolates, but we will see how long the cookies take to do.

I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!!!

I've got nothing!

2007-02-07T11:37:00.000-05:00

I have seriously just sat here staring at the computer screen for half an hour. I can not think of one good thing to write about, except my lack of an idea to write about...pure genius! There is nothing noteworthy happening in missyland as of right now...I am so boring that I am making myself sleepy.

I have been experiencing some inner turmoil, but I like you guys and don't want to turn your brains into mush reading my emo drivel...your welcome.

It has been bitter cold here...with the wind chills I think it was -10, and I don't like it one bit. I am not a cold weather person. Buddy on the other hand, seems to want to go out every five minutes in the cold, so he can sniff the air and eat some snow.

So, happy hump day guys! Here's hoping that I think of something decent to write about!!

Some days are just better than others....

2007-02-02T10:33:00.000-05:00

I really need to get myself a hobby...or two...or three or four. Have you ever known someone who gets something (or a bunch) of things started and either doesn't finish them at all or takes a really loooong time to do so? That describes me to a T.

It seems that I have no attention span. If I start something and it isn't going to be done in one sitting/session....forget it...it will then sit and collect dust. For example, I decided that I wanted to teach myself to use a woodburner....it's not that it is hard to use, but you have to learn the technique. I did one table and I just cant bring myself to pick it up and use it again. I enjoyed doing it, but I guess now that I have done it, there is no challenge to learn it anymore.

Wow, I think I just realized what my problem is. I love to try new things...especially crafts, but as soon as I know I can do it, I want to find something else to learn. How weird is that? Well, I am sure that you guys have already figured out that I was a little off, but you are still here!

So, what are your hobbies or interests? What do you like to do to unwind? I love to go fishing or go for a long drive, or hike.

On a side note...I am excited for tomorrow. My sis and I are getting together to make candy...YAY! I will be baking cookies as well to make cookie bouquets and the chocolates will be part of them! I will be sure to take pictures to share. I hope everyone has a great weekend!!! T.G.I.F.

Tuesday blahs

2007-01-30T12:11:00.000-05:00

I don't have any idea what to write about, but I wanted to get my pity party off of the top. So, I will just give you a rundown of the last few days.

Saturday: Wasn't feeling well when I woke up, and prayed that it wasn't the stomach flu (it wasn't). I got a little bit of housework done, but not much. I am still trying to catch up. I took Tony lunch in the afternoon (he was working), then went to my Godson's birthday party. I posted on Friday that he was 7...I was wrong, he turned 6. They had a bowling party for him and watching all the kids bowl was hilarious! After all that excitement I went home and didn't do much of anything else....I know, it is way too exciting to handle, right?

Sunday: Went to church....I almost overslept until Buddy climbed up on the bed and proceeded to try to lay on my pillow and head. Let me tell you, 117lbs of Labrador ass on you head will either suffocate you or wake you up quickly ;0). Apparently my dog has no sense of where is a proper spot to flop down and lay. Anyhoo, after church I went home and made Tony some brunch. We went to my parents' house in the afternoon for dinner...Mom made chicken pot pie....and we took my grandfather along. So, dinner was delish and we got to see my sis and bro in law as well my aunt and uncle. Everyone had a grand time picking on Tony, as is usually the case because no one sees him that often ;0). We later visited with Tony's parents....Tony's dad is feeling much better and is getting around fairly well considering.

Monday: Work...blah blah....yeah, Monday was a wash...absolutely nothing to tell except we watched 24 and as usual Jack kicked ass!

So, now that I have exposed just how extremely boring I really am, let me just say Congratulations to Beanie's Mama on baby no. 2, and my friend Leah on the arrival of Grace at 8lbs 1oz at 6:40 this morning!

Humble pie anyone?

2007-01-26T12:41:00.000-05:00

Have you ever been in any type of situation or surrounding, say a new group of people or a new place, where you find yourself acting a bit out of character? I have been guilty of that a few times, but for the most part I have always been proud/happy to just be myself. That being said, my natural personality is not very cut and dry so to speak.

Well, the other day a friend of a friend (I really don't consider her an acquaintance) made a backhanded comment about how it seems that I change my likes depending upon who I am around. I was pretty pissed to say the least.

Her: "....well that is nice that you take on whatever interests your friends of the moment have...."

Me: "The last time I checked, I had the same group of friend that I had ten years ago, and obviously that doesn't include you, or you would know that that is not the case..."

Her: *Blink*

Me: "I am not trying to be rude, but if you want to speak up about something, you should get your facts straight. I don't do anything unless I want to, not because someone else does and I want to be cool."

Her: *Blink*

Uh huh, that is what I though....

That brings me to the point of this post. I have been doing some thinking lately about where I am in life. I am usually very happy go lucky and very laid back..maybe too much so, but hey. I am a pleaser....it makes me a very happy girl to make someone else happy. I know, if you need be sick, I'll wait. *Taps foot, checks watch* OK, all better now? Good. So, while her comment pissed me off, it made me realize something. Maybe she has a point....kinda.

I don't really change my personality for my friends, because they all know how I am and are a lot like me...God help us ;0), but it seems that I did change myself for someone. Yep, that means the MAN. Have any of you guys/girls changed (even a little) to get your love interest/spouse/sig. other?

Before Tony and I were a couple, I was quite the social butterfly. I went out every weekend...either to the bar, to see a show, go to the park, or SOMETHING! Now....well, I can't remember the last time I went out anywhere...like OUT that wasn't a family function or something of that sort. I don't drink hardly at all anymore because he looks down on it, and my best friend says that I am not as outgoing anymore. :0( Damn, I suck!!!

Don't get me wrong...I love Tony and we don't fight...(much);0) but who doesn't? But, what is so surprising is that I didn't realize these things right away. Tony is a homebody, and so when you first start dating someone new, that necessarily isn't a big deal, because you probably just want to mess around anyway...but four years later...I feel a little like I need to get permission to go out or I get the silent treatment.

So, this is me eating humble pie, because I guess I did change for someone, and now I don't know if I like that....all in the name of making someone besides myself happy....OK, now I feel sick ;0( But this is something I will have to ponder and discuss with the man and see where it leads.

OK, I have decided I am going to make time to do something that I want to do at least once a week, because I can. Usually in the past, if I try to get Tony to go out with me...he doesn't want to, so I guess I will just have to go on my own!

Alright, I am done...as always your input and opinions are appreciated! Have a great weekend! And, Happy 28th anniversary to my parents! and Happy 7th birthday to my Godson Logan!!!

I need new tunes

2007-01-23T10:10:00.000-05:00

First of all, I just wanted to thank everyone for their concern for Tony's dad...it is greatly appreciated! He is doing well, sore, but good. They are supposed to release him to come home today, so I hope that they do, because he is so ready to go home.

OK, last night I was checking my email and I realized that it has been a very long time since I bought any new songs for my ipod. Now, if I had my way, and an infinite amount of money to spend, I would probably have more songs on there than I would have time to listen to it. I think I only have 150 songs on it at the moment because I lost a lot of my music files and haven't put them on my new computer, but that's my own fault.

Anyone who looks at my music collection looks at me as if I have two heads, six arms, ten legs, and green skin. Well, not really but you get the point. I like many different types of music. Here is a short list: blues, metal, rock (classic and new), country, bluegrass, oldies, punk, latin, classical.....well, you can see where this is going. There isn't much that I really don't like. That's not to say that I like all country, or all oldies, and so forth but for the most part I like all of them.

I tend to listen to whatever I am in the mood for, but I listen to mostly rock or metal I guess. That being said, I am always looking to add songs to my library. I will not even try to list all I have because I am lazy like that, but I would like to hear what some of your favorite artists/songs are. It doesn't matter what type of music it is...I love to listen to new stuff. If anyone is really interested in what I have on my ipod, let me know and I will get off my lazy ass and post it. By the way, feel free to list more than one if you want to! ;0) Happy Tuesday!!

Mondays suck ass

2007-01-17T14:16:00.000-05:00

Hey, I realize that it's Wednesday, but I have good reason to be behind. Monday afternoon I am sitting at my desk doing some paperwork, and talking to a sales rep on the telephone...nothing out of the ordinary there. I hear the front doorbell go off, so that I know someone has entered the showroom...this does not interest me because for once, I don't have to help the customers. I look up to see Tony's sister walk into my office...her face all red and puffy from crying and my heart sank. I got off the phone as quickly as possible to see what had happened. Tony's dad had fallen off of a ladder while painting and was on his way to the hospital. They thought that he had broken his hip.

I went home to check on Tony, and spoke with his mom....yep, he'd broken his hip (he's 72) but, it wasn't a bad break, and he would be OK. We spent a good part of Monday night in the hospital keeping him company. He was supposed to have a pin put in his hip yesterday, which we spent all day in the hospital so we knew what was going on, but due to some crazy test results, they didn't operate. So, he is supposed to be going today....but seeing that they don't want him to eat anything he's a bit cranky....as I am sure anyone would be. And, no one has any idea what time all the fun is supposed to start. So, I hope everyone is having a better week than we are!

Poor Buddy....;0(

2007-01-15T09:24:00.000-05:00

This weekend was probably the most boring weekend that I have had in quite a long time. I was stuck at home to keep an eye on my gimpy dog. Thursday night when I got home from work, Tony was installing my dishwasher...YAY!!!...and he had Buddy in his cage so he was out of the way. Buddy doesn't mind the cage all that much as long as he's not penned up for too long.

As soon as Tony was finished (it was a fiasco, and I'll post about it tomorrow) I let Buddy out of the cage. I took him out and when we came back inside he was hyper and excited like normal. Tony and I were playing with him and he was running around the house like a mad man. We aren't sure exactly when, but at some point he got one of his toenails caught somewhere and broke it back near his toe. He wasn't crying or limping, but he was bleeding like crazy.

Once I got his foot cleaned off and got the bleeding to stop, I called the 24hr animal hospital to see if I needed to bring him in. They told me it was unnecessary as long as I had stopped it from bleeding. So, I made an appointment at the vet on Friday.

When the appointment was made, it was agreed that we would drop him off and let them sedate him a little bit to cut the nail off without causing him a lot of pain. I'm OK with that, but when Tony went to drop him off, they did no such thing. They went into the exam room, the vet told Tony to hold him (he assumed that the vet wanted to look at it) and proceeded to just cut it off. I don't know about anyone else, but I was seriously pissed off when Tony told me that. I imagine that would feel like having your fingernail get torn down into your nail bed.....not fun.

So, I had to keep an eye on him so he wouldn't chew the bandage...that we had to redo because they didn't do a good enough job. I gave him a break from the bandage last night and had a good look at his nail. It must be very sore, so I've been giving him his pain medicine and keeping him from walking on it too much. So, I think I need to find another vet. I hope everyone had a good weekend!

Someone pass the Nyquil :0(

2007-01-11T14:01:00.000-05:00

Tony has succeeded in making me ill. Sore throat...check, fever.....check, stuffy head....check, aching head....checkity check. So, I hope he is quite pleased with himself. Yep, I feel miserable, but I am still at work. I am such a team player...right, I am just trying to give my cold away (just kidding) ;0).

So, I have gotten up early (about an hour earlier than normal) every day so far, and it seems to be going well. I don't consider myself a morning person, but I think the extra time to just be up and moving around makes me less tired when I go to work. I have managed to get laundry done, and actually start packing myself a lunch. I have decided that any extra housework will just have to be done in the evenings. I am just going to do a room/area a night. If this all works the way I think it will, I will have little or none to do one the weekends. I like the sound of that. I haven't done anything the last couple of evenings because of being sick, but I will....come hell or high water!

Tony could totally help me with my goals by hooking up my damned dishwasher. He got me a dishwasher for Christmas, and it has yet to be installed. I am impatient as it is, but this is driving me nuts. He had to make two trips to Home Depot so far because he didn't have the right sized connections, so I will give him some slack on that, but damn, go get what you need and hook that thing up already. I am tired of looking at it in the middle of my dining room.

Just so this doesn't seem like a pick on Tony post, I will give him credit for making me soup and a grilled cheese sandwich the other night...it was YUMMY! So, hope everyone has a good Thursday....the weekend is almost here!!!!

Huh? What was I supposed to be doing?

2007-01-09T12:25:00.000-05:00

I had decided that I was not going to make a New Year's resolution. It is always a safe bet with me that they won't be kept, no matter how good my intentions are. I have the attention span of....what were we talking about??...oh, see what I mean. That may be a little drastic, but you get the point.

I am quite sure that I am infuriating to live with due to my tendency to start things and not finish them. I think that it is a good possibility that I could stock an A.C. Moore with the stuff that I have that has yet to be made/finished. As I said, I always have the best intentions, but I either find some other interesting thing to get into, or I just loose interest all together and get lazy.

I also seem to have an issue in that once the interest has passed....it is gone...done...don't want to do it. I seriously have so many different craft and sewing projects started that it is ridiculous! So, that being said, instead of making a resolution, I would like to make an effort to quit being ADDish and finish what I start.

One other thing I am trying to take baby steps with is setting up a new schedule for myself. I always leave my housework and laundry for the weekend. I do this because I never feel like doing anything when I come home from work, but that doesn't make for a fun weekend. So, I have decided to start getting up a little bit earlier in the morning to do some of the little things, and picking a room/area to do each night to break up the work. I figure this way I will have free time on the weekends to actually relax.

Also, I have been reading that it is De lurking week!! So, if I have any lurkers??? Please say hello!! I hope everyone has a good Tuesday, and wish me luck!! ;0)

Party Time!!

2007-01-03T17:24:00.000-05:00

January is going to be a busy month for me apparently. I've got a Body Shop home party, a baby shower, my parents' anniversary, my Godson's birthday, and last but not least my dad's 60th birthday!!!!!

Now, while all of those things are important, my dad's bday is special for obvious reasons. My mom, sister, and myself are going to have a party for him to celebrate. The only issue is that my sister would rather not have a party that suited dad, but one that was more her style, if you know what I mean. My dad is a drinker....I would be hard pressed to find a day where he has not been "at the office". That being said, for various reasons my sister disapproves of this and his choice of friends.

My dad's friends are nice guys (most of them) but just aren't the most sophisticated bunch, but honestly, that is why I like most of them. They are who they are and don't give two shits if you like it or not. So, while we were discussing the particulars of said bday bash, my sis suggested that it be a family thing...bwahahahaha...yeah right. I laughed at her and she got pissed but oh well. This party is supposed to be about dad...not sis, or me, or mom...just dad.

I will be making invites and passing them among the "heathens" so this should be one hell of a party. My mom wasn't sure what type of food to have, and I suggested roasting a pig, but we shall see. I don't really think anyone will be interested in anything but the beer, but that is just my guess.

Anyone have any good party ideas/stories? His birthday isn't until the 29th so I have a little time yet. Wish me luck dealing with big sis...she's gonna be unhappy ;0p

Happy New Year!

2007-01-02T09:02:00.000-05:00

Well, Christmas went off without a hitch, New Years was pretty mellow, and the holidays are finally drawing to a close. I didn't do much for New Years....I am not a big drinker, so I sat around and played Catch Phrase with my friends, two of them were kind of happy, so you can imagine the answers we were getting. That was a sight to see. Catch Phrase is the game where you are given a word to try to get your partner to say that word by giving them verbal clues....yeah, drunks don't do to well with that, but they are hilarious.

I didn't even make a resolution...I don't think I've ever kept one to begin with, so who am I kidding. I could stand to lose some weight, but making a resolution about it would have the opposite effect I think. So, no resolution for me. I do hope that 2007 is a good year, as I am sure everyone else does.

My mom made pork and sauerkraut yesterday and it was yummy, but I think I ate way too much and my tummy is not liking me very much today. So, did anyone make any resolutions for the new year? Or, is everyone like me and said to hell with that? If you made one what was it/are they? I hope this year is prosperous for everyone! Happy Tuesday ;0)

It's not goodbye....just see ya later

2006-12-29T09:59:00.000-05:00

On the 23rd, my great aunt passed away at the grand age of 88. She had been quite ill for some time now and was receiving care from Hospice for a few weeks. She probably only weighed 70lb if not less....she was nothing but skin and bones.

All those things aside, she was still just as strong willed as she had ever been. She would ask for her cigarettes and ashtray, and had her coffee pot right beside her bed. She was surrounded by her children when she passed, and I would like to think that her passing was a blessing. Her suffering has ended, and she is in a better place.

Her favorite activity (besides smoking and drinking coffee) was to play poker. So, I would imagine that that is what she is doing right now. Her funeral was yesterday.....and the overall feeling of calm and peacefulness was kind of weird, but everyone was just glad that her struggle had ended.

So, this is my way of saying....I'll see you later....we don't know when our time here is up, when it is our time to be called home, but we all know that it will happen. My intent today was not to depress everyone, so sorry if this is depressing. I should have something more upbeat later. Happy Friday.

Thank goodness that is over....

2006-12-27T11:57:00.000-05:00

Well, I am certainly glad that Christmas is over. I hope everyone had a great Christmas. I did, but I am still glad that it is over. I can finally put away all of the decorations and all of the gift wrapping goodies.

I got my dishwasher for Christmas, so I am totally excited about that. Believe it or not, I have never had a dishwasher. Well, there was one in my apartment in college, but I had a bit of a problem with it, and that is for another post.

Our gift hunt for the kids went really well. We wrote out cute little cards and hid their gifts all over the house. Each one of the kids had an adult help them, and we had made it so that each clue was staggered between upstairs and downstairs, so after it was all said and done everyone was quite tired. The kids loved every minute of it, and that was all that mattered.

Surprisingly, I didn't gain 15lbs as I had imagined would happen after being forced to eat four meals (maybe forced isn't the correct word to use as I was not force fed, but you get the point). So, all in all everyone had a nice time and all drama/chaos was avoided. So, how was your Christmas? What did Santa leave under your tree? ;0)

Merry Christmas....a little early

2006-12-22T11:02:00.000-05:00

I wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and/or Happy Holiday of your belief. I now have one gift certificate left to buy which will be promptly purchased after our office Christmas party this afternoon. Then, I am completely finished shopping. Tomorrow I will finish my wrapping, then I may take a nap, just as a reward for not killing anyone during the holiday preparations.

I really didn't ask Santa for anything in particular this year, but I am kinda hoping for a dishwasher...that would be great. I got sort of an early Christmas present from my sis and bro in law....they have been in the process of trying to adopt, and have signed papers to adopt a baby girl from Guatemala!!!! I am soooooo excited!! I don't want to post any pics or anything yet, because it will be about 4-5 months until everything is final. So, that is the most awesome gift that I could receive...;0)

We are having our office party this afternoon...nothing special, just some lunch and a chance to bullshit with each other, but it is still nice. So, I hope that everyone is all ready for the big day, and if not, be careful shopping with the rest of the last minute shoppers....they can be nasty. So, everyone have themselves a safe, happy, and (try) fun holiday. I hope Santa brings everyone what they wished for!!!!

Merry Christmas

It's almost here ;0)

2006-12-21T08:29:00.000-05:00

I just can't believe how fast this year has flown by. It seems like it was just a few months ago that we were planting flowers outside. When older people tell you how fast the time starts to go as you age, you never have a full appreciation for that fact until it happens to you.

I can't say that I've had any major events happen this year, so I guess that is a good thing. This time of year is very stressful for most people due to holiday festivities, and I am no exception. I also must deal with year end stress at my job. At the end of each year, I must box all accounting and customer files for the year, make any necessary inventory adjustments, make sure everything for taxes are in order, and then do the tax forms for the subcontractors and employees. Those things give me a headache just thinking about it.

Not only do I need to organize all that fun stuff, but it always seems that by the end of the year, my office looks like all the filing cabinets vomited on my desk....there is just stuff everywhere. So, there is all that to put away as well. So, these next couple of weeks are always kinda crappy for me.

Tonight I plan on going and getting the last few little things I need to complete my Christmas shopping. I probably won't finish my wrapping until Saturday, but that's OK. My boss is planning on having a small Christmas lunch tomorrow, so that will be nice to only have to work half of the day.

I felt quite sick last night, and don't feel that great this morning, so I am going to try to go home early, but I am not optimistic. I hope everyone has a good Thursday....four days to go!!!! ;0)

You want to move to where?

2006-12-19T09:50:00.000-05:00

For the past five years or so my parents have been saying that they would like to sell their house and move. Just to give you a little bit of background, my parents built their current house about 16 years ago on land that they purchased from my grandmother. The land was adjacent to her property and was actually part of the original plot that my grandparents had bought when they were married. My mom and her brothers and sisters were raised there. They have 2+ acres that is wooded with no close neighbors. But they want to move.....3 hours away. :0(

The logic (to them) is that they can sell the house and property, and move upstate and buy a house and some prop, and have money to put in the bank. I get that, but why in the hell can't they stay local....all of the family is here.

I am a very sentimental person, so if it were me, I don't think I could sell because of what the property represents, but it isn't my decision. I grew up there as well, so maybe that is why I feel that way.

Anyway, the point is why move that far away when you could accomplish the same thing locally. If they wanted to downsize, they don't have to move far away. Oh well, what ever they want to do is their decision, and they don't come to visit me that much anyway, and only live 20min. away.

So...six days to go till Christmas...is anyone in panic mode yet? ;0)

Seven days and countin'

2006-12-18T14:18:00.000-05:00

Well, for once I had a pretty productive weekend. I am usually very lazy and unmotivated on the weekends, but I actually got something done this time around. I went shopping on Saturday because I had an assload of Christmas gifts to buy, and said shopping trip went surprisingly well. I was so ready to have to shoulder block someone or run over someone with my cart, but all catastrophes were avoided.....and I spent less money than I thought I would...YAY!!!!

All that being said, I am about 95% finished with all of the shopping (I still have a few gift cards to get, but that isn't a big deal) and I am in a pretty good mood. This is a major improvement from me wanting to punch Santa in his fat jolly ass..*Ahem* sorry ;0) We are still trying to plan the kids' gift hunt for Christmas with little luck, but oh well.

I also need to decide what kinds of cookies I am going to bake.....If I bake any at all. I am going to TRY to finish my wrapping tonight, but I am not optimistic. Hey, at least I'm honest!

Ok, I'm all better now....

2006-12-14T09:35:00.000-05:00

Well, apparently I was far from a happy camper last night when I posted. I was reading it this morning and sweet jeebus woman...relax. To put it mildly I was a bit out of sorts, so sorry about that.

I am still on new guy babysitting duty, but he isn't that bad. It could be worse, but he cannot sit still. I am fairly laid back and I am not much for a rush rush mentality. Newbie on the other hand does everything at warp speed. We get it, you are motivated. Anyway, I had forgotten how nice it was to be able to push off some of the "bitch work" on someone else.

I have lots of shopping yet to do and I have no idea when I will be able to do it, but I am sure I will manage somehow. We are putting together a scavenger hunt for the kids for Christmas to find their gifts, so I will have to get my ass in gear for that.

I also need to decide if I want to do any baking. I was hoping to bake cookies, but we shall see. I am off to try to get some work done, so happy Thursday!

My Christmas spirit has left the building.

2006-12-13T17:59:00.000-05:00

Well, I was trying really hard to be happy about and excited for Christmas. As of right now...Christmas can suck it. I am broke and have lots of shit that I need to buy, I still haven't put my Christmas lights up on the front of my house, and I am just generally pissed off. If I only had to buy gifts for my family I would be OK, but I have to buy for Tony's family, and there are like a gazillion of them. They don't pull names or have a grab bag, and I really don't know why. I would have to start buying now just to be caught up next year. So I say to hell with it all. I am seriously considering not leaving my house on Christmas and either sleeping all day, or drinking myself stupid.

I don't think that the family would appreciate that very much, but oh well. I am quite sure that I don't have the heart to do that, but it sounds good and tough...doesn't it? Well, I am sure that no one really wants to listen to my cranky self anymore so I will go take my cranky self somewhere else until tomorrow!

My dog is grumpy in the morning too!!

2006-12-12T10:24:00.000-05:00

When my alarm clock went off this morning, I did the same thing I do every morning....I hit the snooze button. When it was really time to get up, I turned my alarm clock off and proceeded to get out of bed. I sat up and stretched, and this is usually where I have a fat brown dog come over to get some morning snuggles. Not this morning thankyouverymuch! At this point Buddy was still laying on his bed.....growling like no body's business. He was obviously dreaming, and it was hilarious. I mean he was really giving it hell....he was totally pissed.

I got up and went to the bathroom and when I came back he was up in my spot on the bed...OK, that's normal. I gathered my clothes and sat down to get dressed and boy was someone bitchy. I was trying to hug him (the dog) ;0p and he wanted no part of it....he may have even snipped at me a bit.

I am not the biggest morning person either, so I can relate to morning crankypants, but holy hell. That must have been some dream he was having. He didn't start acting like himself until after we had made our trip outside and treats were given...then he loved me again.

I hope everyone else's mornings were much better than Buddy's morning was...sheesh! ;0) Oh, I almost forgot....today is my sister's birthday!!!!! Happy Birthday Sis!!

I know I'm strange...so what?

2006-12-10T21:02:00.000-05:00

This evening Tony and I babysat for his niece and nephew...or should I say, we went to their house and watched TV. The kids basically entertained themselves (they are 11 and 4). So, we were in the living room and I asked G if she wanted to watch a movie. She went upstairs and came back with Mary Poppins. Tony and her little brother were not thrilled with her choice, but that is what we were going to watch.
I haven't watched Mary Poppins in like....a really long time, but I had forgot how much I really liked it. I know that really makes me sound....odd, but I do not care. When I was younger, my favorite movies were the musical movies.

So, while we were watching the movie, I got to thinking about some of the movies that I used to love to watch. I will list some if you promise not to laugh at me......promise? You didn't promise....OK, well I will do it anyway. Some of these movies are even older than "my time" but my mom used to rent them for me:

Disney's Babes in Toyland
Alice in Wonderland
The Apple Dumpling Gang
The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again
Mary Poppins
Calamity Jane
Robin Hood
Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs (not the cartoon version)
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Singin' in the Rain
The Wizard of Oz

I know there are plenty more, but I have embarrassed myself enough for one post. I have nothing against the movies that are made today, but man there is just something about the old classics. Any of these movies could put me in a good mood just by watching them, and I think that is pretty awesome. So, does anyone have any favorite childhood movies that they remember? I am trying to make a list of the oldies but goodies that way I can update my DVD collection.

But I don't wanna....

2006-12-08T20:28:00.000-05:00

I think that I have totally overextended myself this weekend. Instead
of typing this I should be finishing my Christmas window swags, being
that I only have one completely done. They won't take long as I have
already made all of the bows. All I need to do is hot glue the
Christmas picks on and fasten the bows and voila...beauty-ful ;0)Anyhoo,
I really don't feel like doing them, but I won't have time on Saturday
or Sunday. Saturday morning will be chock full of laundry, cleaning,
and other various housework in the morning. At lunch I will need to
take T something to eat while he's working, then drive an hour down to
my sister's house to bake cookies. I love to bake cookies, and I love
hanging out with my sis...but she lives too far away ;0( I don't want
to bail on her, but I know I won't feel like going.

Sunday won't be as hectic as Saturday hopefully, but it won't be as relaxing as usual. A typical Sunday is going to church, I come home and change into comfy clothes, break out the Sunday paper, and veg. out. Sometimes
I go over to Tony's mom's house and visit, but I like to just be lazy!
This Sunday we will be babysitting for a few hours in the evening, but
the kids are really good, and will probably be more interested in
playing with Uncle Tony than me, but I'mOK with that. I also need to
try to fit some grocery and Christmas shopping in there somewhere if
possible, so we shall see. I hope everyone has a great weekend!

I've been tagged!

2006-12-08T09:11:00.000-05:00

So I've been tagged by Laundry Broad to do this thing.....You gotta take a pic of yourself right now as you are and post it on your blog. Then tag a few others.

So, here it is:

You will notice that I do have a scarf around my neck...inside. Yes, I am a freak. I actually just made it...so that is why I am rocking it!

So, I guess I will tag Mama Jen, Beanie's Mama, and anyone else who wants to do it ;0)

I should've stayed in bed

2006-12-07T13:34:00.000-05:00

When my alarm clock went off this morning I hit the snooze button. I hit the snooze button twice every morning and have my alarm set to accommodate my lazy ass. This morning however, I was much more tired and grumpy than usual. I really wanted to lay there any snuggle up to the dog and go back to sleep, but sleep doesn't pay the bills now does it.

So, I start to get out of bed, and find that the dog had me pinned. He weighs 117lbs people and that is more than I weigh, but anyway, I tell him to move and he rolls right off the bed. With a loud thud. That was funny, but I felt bad for him...dumb ass. I get dressed and start down the stairs...Buddy usually is hot on my heels, so I always stay to the right so he can run passed me. What does he do this morning in all his morning glee to run down the steps like a madman...he plows me over. Seriously...he knocked me the fuck down the steps.

As I lay at the bottom of my steps trying to figure out if I had really injured myself, Buddy pounces on me to give me lots of kisses, because you don't lay on the floor unless you want to play right? So, I get up...no major injuries except some bruises so that was good.

I get to work this morning and find out that newbie is starting on Monday....fantastic *grumbles*. I guess I won't be getting anything accomplished. Last but not least...I have a meeting with my boss and the accountant this afternoon so, I will basically be forced to sit through a bazillion stupid questions from my boss that the accountant will probably not answer to his liking and he'll ask me the same things over again tomorrow when I am trying to get some work done. I hope everyone is having a better day than me...and watch out for big dumb dogs coming down the steps....I will be sore tomorrow!

My computer is what?

2006-12-04T22:00:00.000-05:00

This post will probably be a mish-mash of a few things, so bear with me ;0)

Well,
last Friday was a day from hell for me. I got to work at 8am. I
unlocked the door and went in like I do every other morning. I went
into my office and put all my shit down, took my coat off, turned the
heater on, and sat down at my desk. Now, up to this point my morning
had been perfectly fine, what was about to happen next was going to
change that for sure. I reached down to turn my computer on and when I
push the button...I hear a clicking sound and have a black screen
up...this is obviously not a good sign. I call the computer guy and
tell him what is going on and he proceeds to tell me that it sounds
like my hard drive has crashed...........WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU MEAN MY
HARD DRIVE CRASHED???? oh, sorry ahem. Fortunately for me, I had a
backup of my Quickbooks accounting software. If I didn't have that
backed up...I would've seriously considered suicide. On the flip side
of that, nothing else on my computer was backed up. Mycomputer had
numerous spreadsheets that I used as templates and I also had every
customer proposal on that computer.....gone, all of it. So, after the
hard drive was replaced I spent the rest of the day trying to reinstall
everything back onto my computer.

Being that I am not the one
who originally made the excel templates, I guess that I am going to
have to try to figure out how to make new ones. I know how to use
excel, but I'm not sure I have the patience right now to do it. Also,
my boss has decided to hire someone to do our commercial estimates.
That is fine and dandy, but guess who will have to train this
person....me. Not only will I need to do the accounts payable andreceivable
, scheduling jobs and estimates, answering the phone, waiting on any
customers that come into the store, and any other task that may come
up, but I will also have to babysit the newbie....GAH! Son of a Bitch.
I need a clone to help me, that's all there is to it. So, just to sum
it all up....work is totally sucking ass right now (so classy, I know).
Well that is all for now, I will let you go read something with
substance! ;0)

customer service......my ass

2006-11-29T15:13:00.000-05:00

I work as an office manager for a flooring company. Yes, I sit behind a desk all day...yay! I take care of all of the accounting, ordering materials, scheduling jobs, and fixing my bosses screw ups. When my boss is not here, I am also required to be a salesperson in the showroom. I HATE being a salesperson! I am good at it, but I still hate it. I have no problem striking up conversations with customers and I usually get complimented on my pleasant attitude. Now, anyone who must deal with the public knows that you will always run into the three basic types: the ones who are totally easygoing and great to do business with, the incredibly stupid, and the extremely rude.

I was force to deal with the latter. A couple came into the store with some measurements so that I could give them an estimate, which I did. They apparently didn't think that my calculations were correct and told me in no uncertain terms that they basically though I was retarded. I proceeded to show them exactly how I got said calculations, but that wasn't good enough either. My boss came out and looked everything over and came up with the same thing, so being the wonderful salesperson that I am, I asked "So, do you believe me now, or do I need to show you a third time?" well, that didn't go over very well and they left. My boss was not upset with me and probably would've done the same thing, and it was especially funny when they came back in because they had shopped around and we had a lower price ;0).

Being rude like that always comes back to bite you. So, I would rather deal with either of the first two types of customers. I am surprised that anyone would want to have me dealing with people because I obviously don't do well with rude people and I tend to just say what I think. So, look out if you ever want to buy flooring and watch out for the snappy little woman in the showroom ;0p (I'm really not that bad...it just sounds funny!) Happy Hump Day!

I'm supposed to act like a girl??

2006-11-27T14:41:00.000-05:00

It has been brought to my attention on several occasions (read: alot) that I am quite tomboyish. I don't deny that and am actually quite proud. I have my girlie tendencies, but I enjoy things that are typically associated with guys.

I was chatting online last night with a friend from high school and that is actually what prompted this topic. In high school I was a cheerleader.....that's girlie right?, right, but I was also into agriculture, wood shop, metal shop, etc. So you can see what I'm getting at. I have always been into things that were like that. I grew up with mostly boys, and my mom is kinda like that too. Mom used to ride motorcycle and dirt bike, and I remember asking her once if she ever played any sports in school...her response was hallway wrestling..;) So I get it honest. I don't think any of this is bad in any way, just something to talk about, ya know. I have come a long way from the awful days of shit-kickers (boots, for all non-hicks), jeans and flannel shirts. Now I embrace my tomboy in a different way. I also embrace my girlie side way more than what I ever used to....getting older I guess.

For example, I wear makeup, I wear dresses/skirts, and I generally try to look cute. Those things used to never be part of my vocabulary. I was always that girl that would be into anything that involved being or getting dirty, fixing things, or just hanging out with the guys. I didn't care about my hair, or looking cute....I mean, come on, what the hell did I care. I was by no means butchy....I just wasn't interested in looking pretty. This point was also brought up at Thanksgiving dinner where my cousin was astounded at the fact that yes, I do cook, and yes I was wearing a dress and heels....I thought he was going to faint. I have changed a lot since high school people....I get no credit. But anyway, I just thought that was funny. It is amazing how people change as they get older. So, if you will excuse me I have beer to drink and porn to watch....just kidding...relax ;0)

Shoot me now....No, seriously....do it!!

2006-11-22T10:16:00.000-05:00

First and foremost, I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Thanksgiving! I am lucky enough to not have to cook a Thanksgiving meal, but I will be forced to eat two of them. I am not complaining. My mother and Tony's mother are both wonderful cooks.

One reason that I am not cooking, is due to the fact that my house is very much under renovation. VERY MUCH!! Truth be told people, I don't have a living room. We live out of our kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, office, and well, that is it. I have no furniture downstairs except a dining table and chairs, so as you can guess, my house is not a prime spot for entertaining. That being said, Tony invited his niece and her family over to see our house (only a handful of people have been to my house so far) before going to his mother's house for Thanksgiving (we live two minutes away from his parents....tops). Now, I don't have a problem with them coming over, but now I will have to clean my entire house. I realize that they know it is being renovated, but I can't fathom someone coming in and seeing it like it is. So, I will be cleaning everything tonight and tomorrow morning, just so that they can come in, look around and leave....brilliant, I know. I don't want to come off as having a dirty house, but when you have to clean up drywall dust or some other sort of dirt all of the time....things don't exactly look sparkly.

I am going to keep a running total during dinner as to how many times I will be asked as to the state of my left hand ring finger and/or my womb. That is one thing that gets old in a hot second. I am the "last one" so I guess they feel like it is funny to tease me about getting married and having a baby. I am not opposed to either one, but do we really need to discuss it over dinner...come on people. So anyway...I hope everyone get a full belly tomorrow. I was going to post about some things that I am thankful for, but I won't bore you anymore.

HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!!

One down, two to go....

2006-11-20T11:40:00.000-05:00

Well, my pre-Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving family function went off without a hitch. We had a smaller group this year due to illness and hunting trips to the mountains. All of the food was delicious as usual, so I feel about 20lbs heavier than I was on Sunday morning, but oh well.

Speaking of food....I decided to make the scalloped potatoes for the meal. My oven hates me for this decision however. I didn't think of putting anything under my casserole dish, so everything cooked out all over the bottom of my oven. I have a self cleaning oven, but I hate the smell the oven emits while running the self-clean cycle...ACK!

Tony and I got quite a history lesson on the way to the grove. We picked up my grandfather, and the whole ride he took the utmost joy in looking around and telling us what had been here and there 50 years ago. I was really glad that he was feeling up to going along. He seemed to really enjoy himself, and was especially happy to hold the newest member of our family, 6wk old Lauren. We took some really nice pictures of Pap and the family, so when my dad emails them, I will post them.

Every year we take a group photo for posterity, and usually my uncle is the photographer. My dad was going to take the picture (I'm not sure why my uncle wasn't, but oh well) and had the camera set up. Now, my dad is not the most electronically inclined human on the face of this earth *cough cough* so he took one shot minus himself, and we were going to take one minus my cousin to take that shot. I ran over to see if I could set the self timer, which I did, and we got a nice family shot with everyone in it (even though I slid across the floor to be dramatic) ;0)

Everyone was happy and healthy, which is always wonderful to hear. It is unfortunate that most of the family only sees one another once a year, but I guess that's better than never. So, one down and two more to go....my mom's dinner, and Tony's mom's dinner....I can feel myself getting fat already! ;0)

How would you like it?

2006-11-16T11:21:00.000-05:00

As I was driving to work this morning, singing at the top of my lungs, and not giving a shit that the lady beside me clearly thought I was more than a little bit crazy, I saw something that I always hate to see. I got behind one of those trucks that carry the live chickens...yeah, you know, the ones with all of the small ass cages, with the birds just stuffed in there....yeah, that kind. Look, I am not a vegitarian or a vegan, but I really can't stand to see how those chickens are treated. Yes, I am quite aware that they were probably going to be taken somewhere to be processed for my chicken cordon bleu....but I digress.

Ok, now I feel a little better....This Sunday is our big Thanksgiving dinner with my dad's family. We were supposed to be doing an Iron Chef type dinner, but everyone punked out. Nobody wanted the hassel, so everyone is just bringing a dish. I am sure it will still be fun, as this is the only time of year that I see certain family members. I have yet to decide exactly what I am making....I am thinking either homemade scalloped potatoes or mashed sweet potato caserole....yes, I dig potatoes! I will be picking up my grandfather and taking him with us to the dinner, so that should be intersting...talk about your backseat driver!! But, that's Ok, at least he will be there. So, for now I must go get some work done....I know....shocking!! So thank goodness it's one day closer to the weekend!!

I'm not ready for Christmas yet......

2006-11-15T11:24:00.000-05:00

Well, as Thanksgiving is only a little more than a week away, that mean that Christmas is well on it's way...like it or not. I really love Christmas. The decorations, the songs, and all the other crazy things that go with it. One thing that I am not so enthusiastic about....the cost of Christmas!

I enjoy the idea of buying gifts for my friends and family, if I know what to buy them that is. I have been known to spend too much money, and buy people gifts that maybe I wouldn't have had to buy gifts for, but I'm OK with that. This year however, money is tight, so I am feeling stressed because I don't have the money that I wish I did for gifts.

My side of the family isn't too bad. We buy for my parents, my sister, my brother in law, my grandfather,a mens gift, and a ladies gift. The mens/ladies gifts are for a game we play. Instead of pulling names, we play a game called now you have it, now you don't. Everyone get a gift, so it is just a little more fun than a standard exchange of gifts. Tony's family on the other hand are out of their minds...in a good way. His family is large and close knit, so they all get gifts for everyone. Look, as I said I love buying presents for other people, but we are talking a lot of people...I won't even attempt to list everyone. Buying even somthing small for everyone is expensive...I think there is around 15 people. Why in the hell can't they just pull names or play a game, it would be so much eaiser.

Each year, Tony and I have tried to think of something fun for his nieces and nephews to do for their gifts. Last year, we got four refrigerator boxes, and bought each (4) a bunch of little things from the dollar store and one big gift and crumpled up enough newspaper to fill our living room and hid all of their goodies in these boxes, so they would have to dump them out and dig for their gifts.....that was great. This year we are trying to plan a scavenger hunt of some sort, so wish me luck with that.

I just can't believe the holidays are here already....didn't we just do this, oh well. Does anyone have any nifty Christmas/holiday traditions or games, or anything like that, that they do with family or friends?

Getting Older

2006-11-13T10:57:00.000-05:00

I don't know what prompted me to want to write about this today. Maybe I am grumpy or maybe just a bit sad. Either way, I don't feel very chipper. I am borrowing this from a poem that Adam wrote about his grandmother.

My paternal grandfather is the only grandparent that is still living. My mom's father passed away when she was only 12 years old, so I never knew him. My grandmothers both passed in 2000 (exactly 2 months apart to the day!), so Pappy is all that I have left.

Pap had had a few strokes, his memory was not good, and he had the normal health issues of an 89 year old man. It had gotten so that he would leave things in the fridge for way too long and eat bad food, because he forgot that it was bad. He still drove, and would get disoriented and forget where he was going or where he was. Having to watch someone you love go through that was devastating, but having to watch them be forced to give up their freedom is worse IMO.

In July the family decided that it would be in his best interest to go to an assisted living facility. He could come and go as he pleased (if someone took him) and it was supposed to be a pretty nice place. He had been in the hospital, so they decided he would need to go when he was released.

My grandfather can be very emotional, and when they (when I say they, I am referring to various family members) told him what was going to happen, he got very upset. What was going to happen to his little dog? What was going to happen to his belongings? He was just very very upset. Now, Pap lived in an apartment in my Uncle Harry's house, so having his things disturbed wasn't an issue. My parents took Tinkerbell, so that wasn't a problem either....except to him it was. This place could've been the Ritz-Carlton...not good enough, because it wasn't his home. Pappy was used to being independent, and couldn't fathom why he couldn't be now. My uncle had taken his car keys (he was a danger on the road), and he knew that he could come and go and wanted his car. The deal was, that he had to take an evaluation to see if he was fit. He took the evaluation a few weeks ago, and failed. Unfortunately, he doesn't know that yet. My uncle has not told him, for fear that he will become depressed. He had just started to socialize with the other residents, and we don't want to hinder that, but all he talks about is getting his car back.

I love to spend time with him...he tells me stories from when he was young, and when my dad was little...oh the blackmail...but spending time there also breaks my heart. Every time I leave, I want to cry. He had worked his ass off his entire life and now he has to spend his time in a home.

The point of all my blabbering is that it is terrible getting older....not only does your body betray you, but sometimes your mind does too. When you have a loved one who is going through it, it just tears your heart to pieces. I don't really know what else to say. This was just kind of a rant/ramble post, so hopefully I will think of something good for the next one.

You know you are from Lancaster County PA if....

2006-11-09T14:18:00.000-05:00

Now, I wouldn't normally post something like this, as this is something that I would usually email, but I thought that it would be funny to post it, and see what everyone else thinks, and answer any questions anyone may have. I live in Lancaster county, so here goes:

You know you are from Lancaster County PA if.....

Your idea of Chicken Pot Pie has nothing to do with a pie and you can't figure out why people might think it would.

Your driving lessons involved learning to avoid horse droppings.

You know at least 5 euphemisms for animal manure and at least 4 of them involve food.

You know how to cook, but not without butter.

You've ever missed school for the first day of deer season... but didn't get in trouble.

The following words mean something to you: Fire Hall Wedding, Chicken and Waffle Dinner, Fire-police, Wooly Bear, Whoopie Pie

You spend at least 30 minutes every summer day complaining about New Jersey drivers.

You don't understand why people would ever want to see the Amish.

The local Post Office used to be a single-family home and they close between noon and 1 for lunch.

You have ever ended a sentence with "a while".

You do not giggle when you see the following signs: Lititz, Intercourse, Blue Ball, Bird-in-Hand

You've heard of 7-11 but you've never seen one.

You cannot buy beer and wine from the same store.

Park City has nothing to do with skiing for you.

Agnes 1972 means something to you and you can tell stories about it.

You pronounce Lancaster in "Burt Lancaster" differently from Lancaster in "Lancaster, PA".

You personally know many people with the name: Lapp Lantz Stoltzfus (or Stoltzfoos) Zimmerman Zook

Iced Tea for you is sweeter than Pepsi.

You know someone who repairs gasoline-powered lawn mowers, but is forbidden to own one.

You think Fasnacht Day and Groundhog day are national holidays.

You know that eggs are either white or brown... and you have a preference.

You think the Mississippi is just a tad wider than the Susquehanna.

You know who James Buchanan was.

You can pronounce "Ephrata."

You don't have to be told what Shoo Fly Pie is.

You go to the store when the milk is "all".

You think orange traffic cones are the natural foliage surrounding Route 30.

You have an uncontrollable urge to buy bread and milk when you hear the word, "snow."

You know the only way to make good fastnachts is to cook them in LARD.

You live within two miles of a plant that makes potato chips, corn chips, pretzels, candy or ice cream or that packages turkeys, beans or bologna.

You do things "once," as in, "I'll go check in the back room once."

You can stop along the road to buy fruit, vegetables or crafts on the "honor system."

YOUR turkey has "filling," not "stuffing" and most certainly NOT "dressing."

You know that chicken corn soup from a firehouse is the most perfect food on earth.

You say things like, "Outen the lights," "I'm calling off today" and "They're calling for snow."

You've heard of distelfinks and hex signs.

Red Beet Eggs makes your list of top ten favorite foods.

You pronounce "Suite" as SUIT, not SWEET.

You say you're going out to the shed "AWHILE," instead of "FOR AWHILE."

You only buy your beer and soda by the case.

You think the roads in any other state are smooth.

You know the Penn State cheer. (WE ARE...PENN STATE!)

Hearing horses clopping down a paved street doesn't bring you to the window to see what's going on outside.

You never see any Confederate flags except on the Gettysburg battlefield.

You prefer Hershey's chocolate to Godiva.

You consider Pittsburgh to be "out west," and you know the fastest way to Philly is the Turnpike.

School closings due to snow take the radio stations half an hour to finish because just about every town has its own school district.

When someone says 1972, you think, "Agnes," and when someone says 1979, you think, "TMI."

You call sloppy joes "barbecue."

You think Medium Rare equals Well Done.

When it snows, they put cinders on the roads instead of sand.

You only own three spices: salt, pepper and ketchup.

You have ten favorite recipes for venison.

Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow.

The local paper covers National and International headlines on one page, but requires six pages for local sports.

You think the start of deer hunting is a national holiday.

You remember fondly days of youth known as, "Snow Days."

Words like: gumband, buggie, hoagie, chipped beef, scrapple, actually mean something to you.

You think Fasnacht Day and Groundhog Day are national holidays.

The verb "to be" is useless: "Does Fido need out?"

You know what a Turkey Hill is . . .
. . . and you've ditched school to hang out there.
. . . and they're the only place that sells your favorite beverage.

You've corrected all the errors while watching Witness.

"Dinner" and "supper" are different concepts entirely.

You reocognize "Twin Kiss" and "Freez and Frizz," knowing that Dairy Queen is a pale imitation.

Dutch Wonderland is neither Dutch nor much of a Wonderland.

WGAL is the source of all local celebrities and they create quite a stir when they shop in the supermarket.

The Green Dragon ain't no Chinese restaurant.

Three words: Red Beet Eggs.

You actually get these jokes and forward them to all your Lancaster County friends.

I know a lot of these don't make sense to non-Lancaster living people, so any guesses about some of these things? or questions? ;0)

Buddy Boy......Wonderdog...or something

2006-11-09T10:23:00.000-05:00

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to Buddy:

Buddy is my 2 1/2 year old Chocolate Lab. I thought it would be fun today to share some funny stories about my faithful companion. First, let me start with how I came to become Buddy's "mommy".

Tony's niece and her hubby used to breed chocolates. While at their house for one of their children's birthdays, there was still a litter of the cutest puppies running around (they weren't quite old enough to leave mom yet). Of course, I proceeded to lay on the ground and play with the pups, and so did Tony. One little guy in particular caught my fancy, due to his laziness ;0). He was the only pup that was content just to lay in my lap and sleep. Brian came over and was telling me that this pooch was his fav. too, and did I mention he was the biggest one...by a long shot;). Brian also told me that he had a perspective family for all the pups, but this little guy. They had found out from their vet that he had an issue with his lower eyelids (sorry, I don't know what it was called), in that they rolled in towards his eyeballs...I know, lovely. Tony and I had told them, that if they couldn't find anyone who wanted him, that we would think about it. It was up in the air as to what the cost would be to have surgery on his eyes at this point. So, low and behold, we got a phone call on father's day weekend saying that if we didn't want him, they were gonna take him to the humane league......guess what, we took him. We had his eyes fixed, and now he is a happy and healthy ball of energy that I couldn't see my life without.

OK, now that everyone is falling asleep, let me show you how he sleeps:

I do not know how that could be comfy, but hey. I would be here all day telling you all of the funny shit that goes on in my house because of boobie (my nickname for him), but I will just share a couple.

Fist up is the time that the dog thought it would be a fantastic idea to eat....yes EAT....one of Tony's router bits....for anyone who doesn't know what that is click here and yes, he ate one of those, and yes, they are sharp. Of course, my dog had an iron stomach, but I was still worried about his safety. When it was discovered what had happened, Tony informs me that he needs said router bit, and so begins "bit watch 2005". Yes, I was on dookie duty to get the router bit back, and when it finally "arrived" *ahem*, I gave the goodie bag to Tony, and told him to get the bit he needed so badly....and he did.

Buddy was crate trained when he was little, and didn't seem to mind it much. He was never really left crated for a long period of time, so it just worked out. When we moved into our new house, we felt we didn't need to crate him. (We needed to crate before, due to Tarzan the evil dog, who wanted to eat Buddy) So, that wasn't the best decision I ever made, but hey, live and learn. He was very out of sorts, with the new house and such, and now he was home alone alot more. He started getting in the trash, chewing things, peeing on the floor, and so on. Well, I had had enough of all of that, so I decided to go back to the crate. I even bought him an extra large kennel. Said kennel lasted two days people.....two got-damned days, before he tore the metal bars from the frame with his teeth, in an escaped attempt to rival Houdini. He even broke a tooth...needless to say, he doesn't go in the crate now, unless he's bad, or we have company (he's a jumper).

Buddy has been known to clear a room with his horrible gas, he's fallen down our steps countless times trying to go to fast, fallen up the steps, taken up the entire bed, gotten into the shower with me for no apparent reason, and just generally makes me laugh. So, while I hope these things were amusing, I am sorry if this was entirely too long, as I have a tendency to be long winded. I leave you with these:

I hope everyone has a good Thursday....one day closer to the weekend!!

What is in a nickname?

2006-11-07T19:09:00.000-05:00

Well, that entirely depends on the person. While perusing the blogosphere you will come across a plethora of nicknames, screen names,
or titles. Whatever you call them, there is almost always some type of
story behind the name. It could be part of your given name, or some
version of your name. Most times it has something to do with a hobby,
the type of car you drive/like, your personality, your size (like me),
or maybe a funny story or event from your life.

I actually have a few nicknames. Littlemissy555
comes from a nickname my best friend gave me. When we first became
friends, she had another friend named Missy, so she had to
differentiate between us. I am only 4'10" so she started calling me
little Miss (her other friend Missy was "pain in the ass Missy" ). When
I got my excite account back in the day, I tried to use little miss,
butlittlemissy555 is what they gave me, so I have just kept using it.

My family nickname, is bird. Of course some call me birdie or birdie Ann
(my middle name). This is the one that was completely out of my
control. When I was born, I was 2 1/2 months early, and I only weighed
2lb 7oz. My cousin visited me in the hospital and said that I looked
like a baby bird....and it stuck. It doesn't bother me...I can think of
worse nicknames (I had an ex, whose grandmother called himshitbird??? I don't know why), and everyone still calls me by that name.

Missy
is a nickname too, seeing as my "given" name is Melissa. Minnie is yet
another one that came from a cousin. We are only three months apart in
age and he couldn't say Melissa when we were little, so he just called
me Minnie, and still does. I've been called shorty so many times that I
want to gag...I've been calledlil' bit, blondie, and various other common names, but I like my own unique ones better.

So,
what's in your nickname? Is there a story, or was it something someone
just stuck you with? Do you like it or hate it? The ones that come from
parents are always the "best", so if you are brave enough...I kid, I
kid...;0) Let's hear it!!!

I don't need your attitude, I've got one of my own!

2006-11-06T10:46:00.000-05:00

I really can't stand how some parents can treat you like less of a person than they would treat someone else, just because you are their child and they feel entitled to do so. That being said, I would like to talk about the fabulous Friday evening that I had.

I called my mom after work to say hi, like I normally do, and my dad answered the phone. It was obvious that he was drunk, but he is usually upbeat and funny. This time though, he was being pissy. He proceeded to get loud with me on topics ranging from my lack of an engagement/wedding ring, the fact that I don't have and kids yet, the fact that I've been "playing house" for four years, and so on. I couldn't figure out why he was pissed about any of this all of a sudden, but I sure as hell wasn't going to argue about it. Hey, if you want to have a discussion with me, then do so without yelling, and preferrably sober.

My dad and I have a history, so to speak of things such as this, but that was quite a long time ago. He used to have a drinking problem, and would become verbally abusive with me and/or my mom, but we have always been very close...go figure. Just to clarify, this is not meant as a pity party for me, just need to vent a little bit.

Because of those things, it doesn't take much to upset me. I can't take being yelled at...at all, so after him yelling at me for the 10th time when I was going to get married....and I told him that it wasn't up to me, I got an additude. I am 27 years old....not 14 anymore, and I told him that I was not going to keep answering the same damn question, to which he replied, we will talk about it if I want to talk about it. Then.....I hung up on him.

I have never (I don't think) hung up on him, but I couldn't stand it anymore. I was even ok at first, just disgusted. When Tony came into the kitchen, I lost it. I proceeded to bawl because I was upset at the things that he said, and the fact that he didn't respect me.

This brings me to my point (sorry for the long post). I would never speak to anyone like he spoke to me, and normally he would not address anyone else in such a way, so why does he think it's ok to treat me like that....It's not. So now he's moping because he knows that he was in the wrong and I don't think he wants to apologize. He can have whatever opinion he wants to in regards to my situation, but just because you think that way, doesn't mean that I have to. Anyone ever been in this type of dynamic/situation? I hope not....I really hope not ;0)

Bring on the turkey!!

2006-11-02T08:38:00.000-05:00

Well, now that Halloween is done and over with, it's time to think about Thanksgiving. My family's thanksgiving tradition was always very simple....eat dinner with the parents and then the parents of your boyfriend, or whatever. My immediate family is small, just my parents, sister, brother in law, and my boyfriend......not a big deal right? You wouldn't think so. My sis started to want to cook dinner too (my mom is her stepmom, so that might be why) and so now I had to try to swing three dinners.....*groan*. I don't know about anyone else, but that is just too much food for me. I am all about those Thanksgiving goodies, but I prefer to be able to walk at the end of the day.

My extended family on both parent's sides of the family are large, so it is impossible to see everyone. My dad's side though used to always get everyone together for a huge meal, but that was before I was born I guess, cause I sure as hell don't remember that. Three years ago, my cousin Jeff put together a Thanksgiving for the whole family to rekindle the tradition. The dinner was great and everyone enjoyed getting to see people they hadn't seen in years. What I am getting at is this...each year he has tried to come up with a creative idea to get everyone involved with the meal/celebration. This year his bright idea was to make it like an iron chef competition. When I got the letter about time/date/place/theme, I stood there and stared at the damn paper thinking "he's fucking nuts". You don't understand how big the fam. is here people, but anyway, it should prove interesting. My question in all of this rambling is does anyone have any off the wall, funny, or interesting Thanksgiving tradidions?

What a rip off

2006-11-01T10:04:00.000-05:00

I was so totally excited to hand out candy this year, as I am every year. I don't know, I just love seeing all of the cute kids and costumes. I got ripped off people. I swear, we may have had 20 kids, and that's pathetic! I wanted to cry....I did get to see my niece and nephew which were adorable as usual, but seriously....what the fuck? I bought all that candy and didn't get to get rid of it (on damn, more for me to eat). Each year there are less kids that come around and it bums me out. I think I will stick to going out with the kids next year, cause this is bullshit! So today I am pouting and stuffing my face with leftover candy....hooray!

Happy Halloween!!

2006-10-31T13:09:00.000-05:00

I really don't have anything of substance today but I wanted to say Happy Halloween!!! This is one of my favorite holidays. I just love seeing all the little cuties in their costumes. But as RSM posted things just aren't the same as they used to be. I don't have kids, so I am not exactly in the same boat....I just got more lame as I've gotten older.

I have not decided weather I am going to dress up to hand out candy. I guess that will depend on my mood at about 5:45 ;0). So anyway, good luck to anyone with kiddies going trick-or-treating, and to anyone else, be safe and have fun!

Happy Halloween !!!!!!!

It's the little things....

2006-10-30T11:22:00.000-05:00

On a visit to my parents' house on Saturday, my mom gave me a couple of boxes that she had come across while cleaning up the basement. She was laughing about all of the dumb little things that I had packed away. She chuckled and said "you are a pack rat just like dad." I disagree. I don't keep things for the sake of having them, I keep things because they have a meaning or a memory attached to them. Apparently, I have quite a lot of "memories".

Ok, I'll admit it....I am one of THOSE people, yeah, you know one of those people who is overly sentimental, but hey, I don't think there is anything wrong with that. I don't think enough people take the time to enjoy the little things.

I have a beautiful wooden box that my grandfather made for me. The box itself is special to me because it was a gift for no reason whatsoever, just an "I was thinking of you" type gift. In this particular box is a collection of little trinkets, pictures, my graduation tassel, a handmade doll, and some other little things that remind me of things that give me the warm and fuzzies. Most times, when I feel down or sad, I can go and get the box down and look through it to cheer myself up. Yes, I already know what is in there, but those little things make me smile, make me feel better. That being said, I think everyone should have something like my box. Something that has the ability to make you smile if you are having a bad day, or just to sit and reminisce about a better time. So, if you had a box, what would you put in it?

Happy Monday!!! ;)

TGIFF

2006-10-27T11:17:00.000-05:00

Thank goodness that it is finally Friday!! This particular Friday is especially well,...special for me. I have recently got in touch with a friend of mine (thru myspace) that I haven't seen since high school, so about 8 years or so *groan*. We are getting together for dinner this evening and I cannot wait!! JB and I had been friends for as long as I can remember, and had so many good times when we were younger, but went our separate ways half way through high school. We never had any type of falling out or anything, we just hung out in different crowds....she hung out with the popular people and me...well, lets just say I embraced my inner redneck..*ahem*. I was friendly with everyone as far as I can remember, but just a little different, more of a tomboy. So in this post I would like to reminisce about some of the crazy things that we did when we were younger. Like the time we:

...were riding my four wheeler, went down over a bank, onto the road and hit a pickup truck that was driving down the road!!...(no one was seriously injured thank GOD!!)
....I ran over her brand new school shoes with the four wheeler (seeing a pattern here?)
....went to the beach with each other's families every summer
....pestered the shit out of her little brother

....went sledding and she pissed her pants laughing.....4 times!!!

Those are only some of the funny things that I can remember for right now. If I tried to list each one, this would be the longest post ever. But here is to rekindling an wonderful friendship!! JB is now a newlywed (since March) and is expecting her first child. I am so very excited for her and her hubby. I hope that this evening is the beginning of many more funny memories to post about. Happy Friday!!!

Marbles

2006-10-26T13:25:00.000-05:00

Here is something that a friend sent me. For some reason, it just really got me so I thought I would share. Please read it and think about what it may mean to you.

Marbles

Mrs. Miller was bagging some early potatoes for me when I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature,ragged but clean, hungrily apprising a basket of freshly picked green peas.

As I paid for my potatoes I was drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes. Pondering the peas, I couldn't help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller and the ragged little boy next to me.

"Hello Barry, how are you today?"

"H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas. Sure
look good. "

"They are good, Barry. How's your Ma?"

"Fine. Gittin' stronger alla' time."

"Good. Anything I can help you with?"

"No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas."

"Would you like to take some home?"

"No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for 'em with."

"Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?"

"All I got's my prize marble here."

"Is that right? Let me se e it."

"Here 'tis. She's a dandy."

"I can see that. Hmmmmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?" !

"Not zackley. but almost."

"Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble."

"Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller."

Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me. With a smile she said, "There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever. When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an
orange one, perhaps."

I left the stand smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A
short time later I moved to Colorado but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering.

Several years went by, each more rapid that the previous one. Just recently I had occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there learn ed that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his viewing that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them. Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could.

Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts ... all very professional looking.

They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and
smiling by her husband's casket. Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket.

Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one, each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes.

Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and
mentioned the story she had told me about the marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket.

"Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about. They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim "traded" them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size....they came to pay their debt."

"We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world," she confided, "but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in Idaho "

With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her
deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles.

Moral: We will not be remembered by our words, but by our kind deeds. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath.

Today I wish you a day of ordinary miracles....A fresh pot of coffee you didn't make yourself. An unexpected phone call from an old friend. Green stoplights on your way to work. The fastest line at the grocery store. A good sing-along song on the radio. Your keys right where you left them.

Love and marriage.....and babies!!!!

2006-10-26T11:01:00.000-05:00

That title makes me think of the theme song from married with children...oh, right where was I.. Well, due to recent badgering (did I say that out loud) from certain family members and friends, I thought I would write about my non-married, childless state of affairs.

My poor parents....I think my mom's head will explode if she doesn't get a wedding or a grandchild sometime in the near future, so watch out, this could get messy!! I am so damn tired of hearing.."When are you getting married?" or "When are you going to have children?". Look, I get the feeling that at 27 because I'm not married they think of me as an old maid, so to speak....gimme a break people. I do not think 27 is freakin old.....at all. So back off....gah. Besides, I can't marry myself, or have a baby by myself so my parents and I are at the mercy of the bf. If the bf has his way, we'll be waiting awhile....that is all for now, just wanted to vent....humf.

Hump Day....

2006-10-25T09:01:00.000-05:00

Thank God it is one day closer to the weekend. Damn, this week is dragging. I officially have not one interresting thing to write about, so I won't bore you half to death. I am excited that the trick-or-treaters will be doing their thing soon, as I can not wait to hand out candy. I am debating weather or not I want to dress up or not. If I do, I have a choice of the following: policewoman, pirate, belly dancer (that won't happen), or just wing it and do something goofy. I don't need a costume to be goofy looking, but that is beside the point. I think I am going to attempt to "dress" my dog and see how he reacts, hilarity should ensue. If I can get him to keep his outfit on I will definately post pics. The best is getting to see my niece all dressed up. She is growing so fast and it's nice to see her enjoy these things. Oh well, that's all for now kiddies. I need to actually do some WORK....;)

Love/Hate relationship with the computer

2006-10-23T21:11:00.000-05:00

I have been trying for the last two hours to figure out how to transfer all of my music files from one computer to the other one, to no avail. Now I know I could burn all of the files and transfer them that way, but my drive won't let me. This is one of the reasons that I wanted to put my music on my other computer so that I could actually burn CDs. I love my ipods but they don't do to well at work. So now I am taking a break before I say to hell with it and break both computers. If anyone has any suggestions (not that anyone will ever read this) please let me know. ;)

Weekend rundown

2006-10-23T08:10:00.000-05:00

Well, this weekend seemed to go by in a blur. I know I did a lot, but then again I don't feel like I got much accomplished. Tony was busy hanging drywall in our upstairs guest bath and upstairs hallway. Our house by the way is a work in progress, but that is for another post. I slept way too late on Saturday, but oh well. I got some laundry done and proceeded to start cleaning out my craft room. This is the room that colletcts everything that you don't know what to do with. Don't act like you don't have one too, cause we all do. That was most of Saturday's activities, so I won't bore you with stupid details. Sunday was spent rearranging kitchen cabinets to make room for some things I bought at an auction, then I helped Tony tear down some ceramic tile in the bathroom....weee! After all of that excitement I had to clean up the drywall mess. So all in all, I was the maid/house bitch this weekend. Hopefully today won't be too bad.

Just starting out

2006-10-20T14:14:00.000-05:00

Well, being as this is the very first post, I don't have the slightest thing to write about. I will need to give it a little thought. Bear with me while I collect myself ;0)