Guess who got an iPhone!!!
Me!!
I'm so happy. Touch screens are so fun!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
The Day After
I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas!
Mine was great.
Christmas Eve, I made a big dinner. Which is always crazy because it's just me and Kaeli!! She opened 1 present, and then she spent the rest of the night thinking that Santa would skip our house if she couldn't fall asleep fast enough. We were tracking him on the Norad Tracker, and she got more and more nervous. She was seriously stressed out about it. So we get ready for bed, I tell her to give me a minute to clean up, and we'll read The Night Before Christmas. I went in her room 5 minutes later to find her completely passed out!!! All that worrying for nothing. With Kaeli asleep, I settled in to watch It's a Wonderful Life. One of my friends stopped by, and we stayed up way too late waiting for Santa.
Christmas morning, Kaeli woke me up way earlier than my body wanted her to. Between her excitement and my exhaustion, I didn't take many pictures. We also went to her grandparents house for a couple of hours. My apartment is covered in new toys and other crap. The word spoiled does not begin to explain it. I guess that's the perk to being an only child/grandchild. Then, I took the most wonderful nap!!
Note - You know your child has seen A Christmas Story one too many times when she's saying all the lines before the actors say them!! I love that it's on for 24 hours. I think I watched it like 4 times!
Now it is the day after Christmas, which I always kind of like. It's nice to finally relax. All the stress is gone (besides what the hell am I going to do with all the leftovers) I'm supposed to be on my way to my hometown. None of my family lives there anymore, but a lot my friends are home for the holidays and Rob's family lives there. The problem is that I'm totally worn out and just want to lounge around. I'm moving very slowly. I am really looking forward to seeing everyone, though. My posse has planned a reunion outing for Saturday night, and I couldn't be more excited. We haven't all been out together in forever.
I guess I should get to packing. I'm going to try to get back here before next year, but if I don't I wish everyone a Happy and Safe New Year. 2009 here we come!!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Like Mother, Like Daughter
**I want to thank everyone for the super nice comments on my last post. Reading through them made me feel so much better. Honestly, it feels good to have it out there. I was beginning to feel like I was hiding something from y'all!! Y'all are even more FABULOUS than I thought.**
I have a tattoo. Just one tiny one on my foot. I've had it for almost 2 years, and I love it. It's especially cute with flip flops (the standard footwear in Texas). Sometimes, when I'm feeling like a rebel, I wear a skirt to work with heels and proudly display my tat. The other accountants are shocked by my recklessness.
I have a tattoo. Just one tiny one on my foot. I've had it for almost 2 years, and I love it. It's especially cute with flip flops (the standard footwear in Texas). Sometimes, when I'm feeling like a rebel, I wear a skirt to work with heels and proudly display my tat. The other accountants are shocked by my recklessness.
Please ignore the bad pedicure. It's winter, and I've been busy. Don't judge me!
Y'all may remember me telling you that over Thanksgiving my darling sister, aka Cool Aunt Kari, gave my daughter a Create Your Own Body Art and Tattoo kit. It contained over 400 temporary tattoos. My sweet innocent 6 year old walked out of her room today looking like this.
I am such a good influence! Phase 1 of creating an exact Kristi replica is complete.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Dear Santa...
I was cleaning out Kaeli's backpack after her school holiday party, and I found a letter that she wrote to Santa in her class. She has already written one at home that was full of toys.
She actually left the home list next to the TV, and every time a commercial came on with a toy she wanted, she wrote it on the list. That girl is resourceful.
I was surprised to find that she had added some things to her school list. Some of which made me chuckle. One touches on a subject I haven't really discussed with y'all. As soon as I read it my heart fell out of my chest.
She actually left the home list next to the TV, and every time a commercial came on with a toy she wanted, she wrote it on the list. That girl is resourceful.
I was surprised to find that she had added some things to her school list. Some of which made me chuckle. One touches on a subject I haven't really discussed with y'all. As soon as I read it my heart fell out of my chest.
- A hamster - I am not opposed to the thought of a hamster. Every kid should have one at least once, right. She's asked for one before because her older cousin has one. Kaeli agreed months ago to wait until she's older. We already have a very needy dog. Cleaning out a hamster cage is not something I want to add to the list.
- A brother - Um. Yeah. I had to ask her about this one. She explained by saying that she doesn't want just any brother. She wants my friend's son to be her brother. They were born 6 weeks apart and spent every moment together as babies and toddlers. They were even in the same day care classes. She was so heartbroken when he moved to Oklahoma. They talk on the phone sometimes, and my friend and I have discussed having them be pen pals since they've learned to write now.
- A shooting star - How absolutely adorable is that? I didn't think like that as a kid. She's so much more imaginative than I ever was. It's a little late for Christmas, but I'm thinking that naming a star after her might be a good birthday present this summer.
Then, (brace yourselves) tucked in at the bottom she wrote that she wanted her dad to be alive. It's hard even writing that sentence. I hadn't decided if I was going to approach this subject on my blog. It's not really fun, cheery Christmas time material. I rarely discuss it. I hate how everyone immediately feels sorry for me. My friend, Maria, is the only one I really talk about it with. Mostly because she is the only one who still asks questions about it. She's a psych major, and I think she is using me as a real life case study. Kaeli's dad passed away when she was 4. We weren't married (mostly because I was young and headstrong...my parents had recently divorced and marriage seemed pointless to me), but we lived together and talked about getting married when I finished college. She really never knew a life without both of us. Then, in the blink of an eye, everything changed.
I worry constantly about Kaeli. She was so young when the car accident happened. She was there when the police officer came to the door to tell us. She immediately knew something was wrong, but death is a hard concept to explain to a 4 1/2 year old. I answered every question. Confirmed every memory. I moved us to a new town so she could be closer to his parents. I started a whole new life for us. I think she has adjusted well. She's happy and flourishing, but as she gets older, it gets harder. I've been able to grieve and move forward, but she's still grasping the concept of death. I think she understands it better than most 6 year olds, though. When something like the Santa letter happens (and it does happen but more in the form of proclaiming that she doesn't have a dad when other kids ask her why they never see her dad), it just opens the wound. I worry that I'm not doing things right. That I'm not helping her enough. Should I talk about him to her more? Are there enough pictures? How does it affect her that her grandmother can't mention him without sobbing? Does her grandmother lean on her a little too much? She is just a kid, after all. Was it a bad idea to move Kaeli so close to them? Is she really happy, or do I just think she is happy? Am I too hard on her because it's just me now? Is she going to spend 20 years in therapy because her crazy mother is overprotective and handles everything wrong? It's just constant uncertainty.
Sorry to be a total Debbie Downer. This Santa letter seems to have shaken me more than I originally thought. Kids should seriously come with a manual. This parenting thing is tough!
Saturday, December 20, 2008
How Many Social Networking Sites Can One Girl Have?
A few years ago I heard about this crazy thing called MySpace. Like millions and millions of other people, I created a page and spent hours and hours making it just right. I've always thought myspace is pretty cool. A lot of my family and friends have scattered over the years, and it's nice to be able to check in on them.
Then, 5 months and 90 posts ago, I began blogging. I think y'all can tell how much I've enjoyed this. It turns out that only a few of my real life friends actually pay attention to this crazy thing. I love that most of the wonderful, funny, and interesting people I have met here are people that I would never have gotten the chance to know without this blog.
Now, as a result of aprocrastinating lazy Saturday afternoon, I finally caved and joined Facebook. I've been putting off joining forever because, seriously, how much space on the internet does one girl need to occupy? I'm resisting the urge to spend all night looking people up. Plus, I've just acquired a new fear of friending people. I'm so late to the Facebook thing that I just KNOW they are going to think I'm stupid and not want to be my friend. I'm neurotic!!
Off I go to spread my name and face all over the internet. It's the first step in world domination.
Then, 5 months and 90 posts ago, I began blogging. I think y'all can tell how much I've enjoyed this. It turns out that only a few of my real life friends actually pay attention to this crazy thing. I love that most of the wonderful, funny, and interesting people I have met here are people that I would never have gotten the chance to know without this blog.
Now, as a result of a
Off I go to spread my name and face all over the internet. It's the first step in world domination.
Financial Responsibility
Kaeli: Mom, did you buy those presents, under the tree, at WalMart?
Me: No, I didn't.
Kaeli: Why not? It costs less! You could have saved money!!
Me: No, I didn't.
Kaeli: Why not? It costs less! You could have saved money!!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Christmas Spirit??
Before I get to my planned topic, I heard this song on the way home from work today. I burst into tears. I just teared up again listening to it on youtube. It has to be the saddest song I have ever heard in my entire life. This is not the kind of Christmas music I want to hear!! Where are the reindeer and snowmen and sleigh rides?? As hard as it is to listen to, I can't seem to stop. It's just so heatbreaking.
After work today I decided to run to Ulta (it's right down the street from me. I love how convenient it is!!) toselfishly buy myself a Christmas present pick up some of my favorite perfume that I just ran out of. Let me set the scene for y'all.
It's a week before Christmas. It's 6:30pm. It is, expectedly, very crowded. I browsed a little, then grabbed my new bottle of perfume and headed to the line. The line must have had like 15 people in it. There were 3 cashiers feverishly working the registers. After all, it's a week before Christmas. When it was my turn the very nice, but obviously exhausted, cashier rang up my purchases. All of the sudden, a woman walks up to the registers.
Woman: Are you the manager?
Manager: I am one of them. What can I do for you?
Woman: (all self righteous and snooty) I just want to let you know that I am leaving because no one came to help me in the make-up section.
Seriously? Why do people act like that? The store is packed with people. If she needed help that badly why didn't she just POLITELY ask one of the employees that was on the floor. I know they were out there because I talked to a very nice one while I was looking at perfume. (He even sprayed one on me that smells so good I might have to go back for it!) Does she really think that the manager cares that they just lost one rude customer when there are so many more patient and pleased ones?
I guess it's my battle wounds from serving tables for so long, but I just hate when people are rude to customer service managers and employees. Especially around the holidays. These folks are busy and working their butts off!
It's Christmas. Isn't that the time for a little extra patience and understanding? Peace on earth, good will toward men (and women) and all that jazz? Some people just don't understand Christmas Spirit!!!
Maybe she should listen to the song.
After work today I decided to run to Ulta (it's right down the street from me. I love how convenient it is!!) to
It's a week before Christmas. It's 6:30pm. It is, expectedly, very crowded. I browsed a little, then grabbed my new bottle of perfume and headed to the line. The line must have had like 15 people in it. There were 3 cashiers feverishly working the registers. After all, it's a week before Christmas. When it was my turn the very nice, but obviously exhausted, cashier rang up my purchases. All of the sudden, a woman walks up to the registers.
Woman: Are you the manager?
Manager: I am one of them. What can I do for you?
Woman: (all self righteous and snooty) I just want to let you know that I am leaving because no one came to help me in the make-up section.
Seriously? Why do people act like that? The store is packed with people. If she needed help that badly why didn't she just POLITELY ask one of the employees that was on the floor. I know they were out there because I talked to a very nice one while I was looking at perfume. (He even sprayed one on me that smells so good I might have to go back for it!) Does she really think that the manager cares that they just lost one rude customer when there are so many more patient and pleased ones?
I guess it's my battle wounds from serving tables for so long, but I just hate when people are rude to customer service managers and employees. Especially around the holidays. These folks are busy and working their butts off!
It's Christmas. Isn't that the time for a little extra patience and understanding? Peace on earth, good will toward men (and women) and all that jazz? Some people just don't understand Christmas Spirit!!!
Maybe she should listen to the song.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Elf Yourself
One of my favorite things about Christmas is ElfYourself.com. I did it for the first time last year, and now the website is even better!!!
Enjoy! And go get your own!!!
Send your own ElfYourself eCards
Mini Freak Out Moment
Last night I was on the way home from work and mentally congratulating myself for being done with my Christmas shopping when it hit me.
I haven't gotten a gift for Kaeli's teacher yet!!!!
Their little Christmas party is Friday, so I have to come up with something quickly. I'm at such a loss for a good teacher gift. I thought about getting a cute coffee mug and putting candy and a Starbucks gift card inside. Is a Starbucks gift card just too cliche? I'm sure teachers get a million dollars worth of them each year, but I just don't have the energy to be more creative. She's a great teacher, and Kaeli loves her so I don't want to just do nothing.
What do y'all think? Is a Starbucks gift card ok? Do y'all have any better/more creative/reasonably priced ideas? I need your help Internets!!!!
I haven't gotten a gift for Kaeli's teacher yet!!!!
Their little Christmas party is Friday, so I have to come up with something quickly. I'm at such a loss for a good teacher gift. I thought about getting a cute coffee mug and putting candy and a Starbucks gift card inside. Is a Starbucks gift card just too cliche? I'm sure teachers get a million dollars worth of them each year, but I just don't have the energy to be more creative. She's a great teacher, and Kaeli loves her so I don't want to just do nothing.
What do y'all think? Is a Starbucks gift card ok? Do y'all have any better/more creative/reasonably priced ideas? I need your help Internets!!!!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Blog Busy Work
I have been a negligent blogger. It's not for lack of trying, though. I have at least 3 unfinished posts that I just couldn't form into coherent thoughts. Now that they've been sitting there for two weeks, it just seems irrelevant and pointless to try and finish them.
In an effort to jump start the blog brain, I stole this questionnaire from my friend, Tabatha. If you check her #26, it says that she wants to read my answers the most. Therefore, I am satisfying a friend's wish.
So here it goes.
50 Things About Me…
2. Have you ever smoked a cigarette? My deep dark secret is that I used to be a hardcore smoker. I loved cigarettes more than anything. There was nothing better after a long night at work than a cold beer and a nicotine fix. It was never my intention to smoke forever. I always used college and my job as a server as the reason, so when I graduated and stopped waiting tables I quit smoking. It was (and sometimes still is) SO HARD, but I'm really glad I quit.
3. Do you own a gun? No I do not, but Rob has two. I told him that I'll only own one if I can get it in pink with rhinestones.
4. What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic? I'm a Peach Tea kind of girl
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Depends on the appointment. I dread the yearly girl business appointment more than anything.
6. What do you think of hot dogs? I don't generally think of hot dogs, but now I'm thinking a chili cheese dog sounds delish
7. Favorite Christmas Song? Frosty the Snowman I know, I'm a total dork for that.
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? COFFEE! Lots and lots of coffee.
9. Can you do push ups? I do push up bras. Does that count?
10. What is your favorite movie? Such a hard question. I'm a movie junkie, so there are so many favorites. The Princess Bride is my favorite from when I was a kid. I love stupid comedies like Zoolander, Superbad, and Stepbrothers. A League of Their Own is very very high on the list.
11. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? I have a ring with Kaeli's birthstone that I got for Mother's Day one year that I love.
12. Favorite hobby? I don't think I'm a hobby type of girl. I like to do a lot of things, but I don't consider shopping and blog reading hobbies.
13. Do you work with people who idolize you? That's a big fat NO. I'm the youngest and least experienced in my group which leads to me feeling like a total idiot sometimes. I do think they areannoyed amazed at my pop culture knowledge.
14. Do you have ADD? No. It feels like it sometimes, though
15. What’s one trait that you dislike about yourself? I worry about things that are beyond my control way too much. I think I tend to be a little lazy also
16. Middle name(s)- Marie
17. Name a thought at this moment- I should be getting ready for bed.
18. Name 3 things you bought yesterday: I didn't buy anything yesterday, but over the weekend I bought a Christmas present for Rob's almost SIL, finally got my Christmas cards made and ordered, and wrapping paper to finish all the presents
19. Name 3 drinks you regularly have: coffee, diet coke w/lime, anything with vodka
20. Current worry right now? I just checked on my daughter to find her sleeping in a sleeping bag on the floor. Why would she choose that over her big comfy bed? Should I move her to her bed? Is sleeping on the floor really a good idea?
21. Current dislike right now? The cough I'm hearing from Kaeli's room. While she sleeps on the floor.
22. Favorite place to be? On my couch watching movies
23. How did you bring in the New Year? At a party with Rob and his friends
24. Favorite vacation spot? Anywhere that has alcohol
25. Name three people who will complete this? I'm not sure. Tab already did it. Maybe Cherish? Coming up with 3 people is hard.
26. Whose answers do you want to read the most? Honestly, everyone. I love when people fill these things out.
27. What color shirt are you wearing? It's blue with ruffles. It's one of my favorites.
28. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? I'm not sure that I ever have. I'm totally cool with cotton.
29. Can you whistle? No. I've tried and tried, but the ability to whistle eludes me.
30. Favorite color? Purple Purple Purple
31. Would you be a pirate? I don't think I could pull off the look. Eye patches and peg legs aren't really my thing.
32. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing in the shower. It would be cruel and unusual punishment for anyone in the vicinity.
33. Favorite girl’s name? Kaeli, of course. I love baby names (I'm totally addicted to Swistle's Baby Names). My favorite changes, but I'm really loving Sophie and Harper right now.
34. Favorite boy’s name? Sawyer, Holden, and Brody
35. What’s in your pocket right now? My cell phone
36. Last person that made you laugh? Kaeli
37. Best bed sheets as a child? I had NKOTB sheets and comforter when I was 9. I loved those so so much.
38. Worst injury you’ve ever had? You know that fleshy part of your hand between your thumb and your index finger? I cut it open on a margarita glass when I was bartending one Valentine's Day. I had to get 10 stitches. Not Fun.
39. Do you love where you live? I really really don't.
40. How many TVs do you have in your house? 3! 3 tvs, and there are only 2 people in my house. How crazy is that?
41. Who would you like to meet? Tough one. I think I'd like to meet the cast of The View. I don't know why, but I wish I was on that show!! And Perez Hilton because he seems like a fun dude to hang out with. And Edward Cullen.
42. How many dogs do you have? One very badly behaved dog.
43. Does someone have a crush on you? Hopefully, it is more of a complete adoration of all things Kristi
45. What is your favorite fictional book? This is even harder than the movie question. I read so many that it's hard to choose a favorite. I'm more into authors I think. I tend to be very loyal when I find one that I like. I'm still totally obsessed with Twilight. Also, anything by Cecelia Ahern. If you haven't read her, I suggest you do it right now. I've been considering a whole post about her greatness in one of my Book Nerd Editions!! I love The Wheel of Time and The Sword of Truth Series. Confessions of a Shopaholic Series. I could go on and on.
46. What is your favorite candy? Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Peanut Butter M&Ms. I like peanut butter.
47. What is your favorite sports team? Football makes me happy! (I'm in the semifinal playoff game for my work fantasy league!!) Go Houston Texans!! I've always loved the Kansas City Chiefs, but they are super sucking lately. I like the Manning brothers so I root for the Colts and the Giants too. With every fiber of my being, I hate the Oakland Raiders.
48. What song do you want played at your funeral? I've never really thought about that before. How depressing. My family would probably pick something sweet and nice, but I say that they should go a little crazy and do a New Kids on the Block/N*Sync/Britney Spears medley. That would be awesome.
49. What were you doing 12 AM last night? Sleeping. Staying up past 11pm is impossible in my rapidly increasing age.
50. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up this morning? Bed comfortable. Mondays Suck. Don't want to get up. How late would I be if I push the snooze one more time?
In an effort to jump start the blog brain, I stole this questionnaire from my friend, Tabatha. If you check her #26, it says that she wants to read my answers the most. Therefore, I am satisfying a friend's wish.
So here it goes.
50 Things About Me…
2. Have you ever smoked a cigarette? My deep dark secret is that I used to be a hardcore smoker. I loved cigarettes more than anything. There was nothing better after a long night at work than a cold beer and a nicotine fix. It was never my intention to smoke forever. I always used college and my job as a server as the reason, so when I graduated and stopped waiting tables I quit smoking. It was (and sometimes still is) SO HARD, but I'm really glad I quit.
3. Do you own a gun? No I do not, but Rob has two. I told him that I'll only own one if I can get it in pink with rhinestones.
4. What flavor do you add to your drink at Sonic? I'm a Peach Tea kind of girl
5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Depends on the appointment. I dread the yearly girl business appointment more than anything.
6. What do you think of hot dogs? I don't generally think of hot dogs, but now I'm thinking a chili cheese dog sounds delish
7. Favorite Christmas Song? Frosty the Snowman I know, I'm a total dork for that.
8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? COFFEE! Lots and lots of coffee.
9. Can you do push ups? I do push up bras. Does that count?
10. What is your favorite movie? Such a hard question. I'm a movie junkie, so there are so many favorites. The Princess Bride is my favorite from when I was a kid. I love stupid comedies like Zoolander, Superbad, and Stepbrothers. A League of Their Own is very very high on the list.
11. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? I have a ring with Kaeli's birthstone that I got for Mother's Day one year that I love.
12. Favorite hobby? I don't think I'm a hobby type of girl. I like to do a lot of things, but I don't consider shopping and blog reading hobbies.
13. Do you work with people who idolize you? That's a big fat NO. I'm the youngest and least experienced in my group which leads to me feeling like a total idiot sometimes. I do think they are
14. Do you have ADD? No. It feels like it sometimes, though
15. What’s one trait that you dislike about yourself? I worry about things that are beyond my control way too much. I think I tend to be a little lazy also
16. Middle name(s)- Marie
17. Name a thought at this moment- I should be getting ready for bed.
18. Name 3 things you bought yesterday: I didn't buy anything yesterday, but over the weekend I bought a Christmas present for Rob's almost SIL, finally got my Christmas cards made and ordered, and wrapping paper to finish all the presents
19. Name 3 drinks you regularly have: coffee, diet coke w/lime, anything with vodka
20. Current worry right now? I just checked on my daughter to find her sleeping in a sleeping bag on the floor. Why would she choose that over her big comfy bed? Should I move her to her bed? Is sleeping on the floor really a good idea?
21. Current dislike right now? The cough I'm hearing from Kaeli's room. While she sleeps on the floor.
22. Favorite place to be? On my couch watching movies
23. How did you bring in the New Year? At a party with Rob and his friends
24. Favorite vacation spot? Anywhere that has alcohol
25. Name three people who will complete this? I'm not sure. Tab already did it. Maybe Cherish? Coming up with 3 people is hard.
26. Whose answers do you want to read the most? Honestly, everyone. I love when people fill these things out.
27. What color shirt are you wearing? It's blue with ruffles. It's one of my favorites.
28. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? I'm not sure that I ever have. I'm totally cool with cotton.
29. Can you whistle? No. I've tried and tried, but the ability to whistle eludes me.
30. Favorite color? Purple Purple Purple
31. Would you be a pirate? I don't think I could pull off the look. Eye patches and peg legs aren't really my thing.
32. What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing in the shower. It would be cruel and unusual punishment for anyone in the vicinity.
33. Favorite girl’s name? Kaeli, of course. I love baby names (I'm totally addicted to Swistle's Baby Names). My favorite changes, but I'm really loving Sophie and Harper right now.
34. Favorite boy’s name? Sawyer, Holden, and Brody
35. What’s in your pocket right now? My cell phone
36. Last person that made you laugh? Kaeli
37. Best bed sheets as a child? I had NKOTB sheets and comforter when I was 9. I loved those so so much.
38. Worst injury you’ve ever had? You know that fleshy part of your hand between your thumb and your index finger? I cut it open on a margarita glass when I was bartending one Valentine's Day. I had to get 10 stitches. Not Fun.
39. Do you love where you live? I really really don't.
40. How many TVs do you have in your house? 3! 3 tvs, and there are only 2 people in my house. How crazy is that?
41. Who would you like to meet? Tough one. I think I'd like to meet the cast of The View. I don't know why, but I wish I was on that show!! And Perez Hilton because he seems like a fun dude to hang out with. And Edward Cullen.
42. How many dogs do you have? One very badly behaved dog.
43. Does someone have a crush on you? Hopefully, it is more of a complete adoration of all things Kristi
45. What is your favorite fictional book? This is even harder than the movie question. I read so many that it's hard to choose a favorite. I'm more into authors I think. I tend to be very loyal when I find one that I like. I'm still totally obsessed with Twilight. Also, anything by Cecelia Ahern. If you haven't read her, I suggest you do it right now. I've been considering a whole post about her greatness in one of my Book Nerd Editions!! I love The Wheel of Time and The Sword of Truth Series. Confessions of a Shopaholic Series. I could go on and on.
46. What is your favorite candy? Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Peanut Butter M&Ms. I like peanut butter.
47. What is your favorite sports team? Football makes me happy! (I'm in the semifinal playoff game for my work fantasy league!!) Go Houston Texans!! I've always loved the Kansas City Chiefs, but they are super sucking lately. I like the Manning brothers so I root for the Colts and the Giants too. With every fiber of my being, I hate the Oakland Raiders.
48. What song do you want played at your funeral? I've never really thought about that before. How depressing. My family would probably pick something sweet and nice, but I say that they should go a little crazy and do a New Kids on the Block/N*Sync/Britney Spears medley. That would be awesome.
49. What were you doing 12 AM last night? Sleeping. Staying up past 11pm is impossible in my rapidly increasing age.
50. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up this morning? Bed comfortable. Mondays Suck. Don't want to get up. How late would I be if I push the snooze one more time?
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Diva in Training
Alternate Titles: What I Find When Checking on My Sleeping Daughter or The Picture I Will Use Against Her When She is a Bratty Teenager
This is a first.
This is a first.I assume she is wearing a sleeping mask to bed because Heaven forbid that any light (or camera flashes) should interupt her precious beauty sleep.
What have I created?
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
What Is Up With This Trend?
I love a great headband. One of my favorite things about Gossip Girls is all of Blair's adorable headbands
So cute. So trendy. Such a great way to keep your hair out of your face.
Kaeli has lots of fabulous headbands.
But I just don't get this look.
It's everywhere, and I just don't understand it. Why? Why are they doing this? It looks so ridiculous. Who thought that this was cool? And why are others following?
So cute. So trendy. Such a great way to keep your hair out of your face.
Kaeli has lots of fabulous headbands.
But I just don't get this look.
It's everywhere, and I just don't understand it. Why? Why are they doing this? It looks so ridiculous. Who thought that this was cool? And why are others following?
Are there others out there that hate this too? I can't be the only one, right?!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Thanksgiving - Roundup Edition
I feel a little late posting this, but I’ve been busy busy busy! I hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving! Mine was great. Lots of good food and fun times with my family. The pies turned out fantastic, and everyone was super impressed with my domestic skills!
It was so great spending time with my family. We really don’t get together near as much as we should. Geography is a Bitch.
I haven’t gotten the full update from my dad yet, but Rob seemed to be a hit. It was nice meeting Kari’s new boyfriend, also. He seemed cool. Kaeli had a lot of fun playing with him.
Thursday night (after we turned off the A&M game because it was just too sad to watch), my dad brought out a bunch of stuff that my sister and I left at our old house when we moved out. The majority of it was Kari’s, but he has been holding on to a necklace of mine for years. I thought I had lost it! I'm so glad to have it back. Then, he did the unthinkable and pulled out all kinds of embarrassing pictures of me for Rob to look at. So uncool. I was really trying to hide some of my uglier years from him.
Kaeli was spoiled rotten by my sister. I didn’t really exist in her eyes the entire time Kari was around. I think she even considered trying to go home with her instead of me!! Cool Aunt Kari bought her this Make Your Own Body Art Kit (!!!!), and they put fake tattoos all over themselves. Payback will be sweet. When Kari has kids I will buy the most ridiculous presents I can find.
Kansas City is freaking cold. Maybe it’s just the temperature spoiled Texan in me, but I don’t think I ever felt warm. I saw people walking around in shorts when I had, like, 6 sweaters on at all times. It even started snowing Saturday before we left.
I was sad to leave my family, but I was so glad to be heading home. Then, I felt a little weird because I don’t really consider my dad’s house ‘home’ anymore. It’s not the house I grew up in. I didn’t even know which drawer had the spoons. I guess the time has come. I’m a (quasi) adult with a life separate from my parents.
I also brought back a really nasty cold. I guess the weather changes screwed me up. We got to Rob’s early evening on Saturday. I was planning on leaving early Sunday to get home, but the cold knocked me on my ass. I left late and ended up spending 7 hours (almost double the normal amount of time) trying to get home. Traffic was insane. I really don’t think I’ve ever been so happy to pull up to my apartment!
That’s it. My holiday in a nutshell. Now it’s back to the daily grind and waiting excitedly for Christmas!!!!!
It was so great spending time with my family. We really don’t get together near as much as we should. Geography is a Bitch.
I haven’t gotten the full update from my dad yet, but Rob seemed to be a hit. It was nice meeting Kari’s new boyfriend, also. He seemed cool. Kaeli had a lot of fun playing with him.
Thursday night (after we turned off the A&M game because it was just too sad to watch), my dad brought out a bunch of stuff that my sister and I left at our old house when we moved out. The majority of it was Kari’s, but he has been holding on to a necklace of mine for years. I thought I had lost it! I'm so glad to have it back. Then, he did the unthinkable and pulled out all kinds of embarrassing pictures of me for Rob to look at. So uncool. I was really trying to hide some of my uglier years from him.
Kaeli was spoiled rotten by my sister. I didn’t really exist in her eyes the entire time Kari was around. I think she even considered trying to go home with her instead of me!! Cool Aunt Kari bought her this Make Your Own Body Art Kit (!!!!), and they put fake tattoos all over themselves. Payback will be sweet. When Kari has kids I will buy the most ridiculous presents I can find.
Kansas City is freaking cold. Maybe it’s just the temperature spoiled Texan in me, but I don’t think I ever felt warm. I saw people walking around in shorts when I had, like, 6 sweaters on at all times. It even started snowing Saturday before we left.
I was sad to leave my family, but I was so glad to be heading home. Then, I felt a little weird because I don’t really consider my dad’s house ‘home’ anymore. It’s not the house I grew up in. I didn’t even know which drawer had the spoons. I guess the time has come. I’m a (quasi) adult with a life separate from my parents.
I also brought back a really nasty cold. I guess the weather changes screwed me up. We got to Rob’s early evening on Saturday. I was planning on leaving early Sunday to get home, but the cold knocked me on my ass. I left late and ended up spending 7 hours (almost double the normal amount of time) trying to get home. Traffic was insane. I really don’t think I’ve ever been so happy to pull up to my apartment!
That’s it. My holiday in a nutshell. Now it’s back to the daily grind and waiting excitedly for Christmas!!!!!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thanksgiving - Preparing Edition
I love Thanksgiving!
I'm heading to Kansas City. Home of the Chiefs, the Royals, and my Dad!! It's my favorite place to have Thanksgiving. My dad is the youngest of 10 kids, so there are lots and lots of uncles, aunts, cousins, 2nd cousins, and 1st cousins once removed that get together to celebrate. This year is super awesome because I convinced my sister that if she really loved me she would make the trip from Maryland to Kansas City also. Which means that my dad, me, my sister, and my daughter will all be under the same roof for like 4 days! It sounds sad, but it has been forever since we've all been together. Damn living in different parts of the country.
Last year, Kaeli and I flew to KC. I'm a nervous flyer. The take off and landing freak me out every time. It's so bad that Kaeli reaches over to hold my hand when the plane starts moving. She loves flying, and tells me I'm silly for being scared. Role reversal much? This year, I decided to make it a ROADTRIP. The plan is to leave tonight for Rob's house, stay the night, and then the 3 of us will make the 8 hour drive to KC early Wednesday. It's really not that bad because I plan on making Rob do all the driving. I have the 4th Twilight book, Breaking Dawn, to read. I can't be expected to focus on the road!
Did y'all catch the very important part of the above paragraph? Rob is coming with me. To my dad's. For Thanksgiving. My dad met Rob once before we were dating, but claims he has no recollection of it. Which means, that Rob and my dad are meeting for the first time. At my dad's house. For Thanksgiving. I'm bringing a boy to my dad's house. For Thanksgiving. So weird. It's almost like I'm a grown up in a serious relationship or something.
The even weirder part is that my sister is bringing her newboyfriend suitor gentleman caller male companion friend. I don't really know what to call him because, apparently, the little sis believes in this whole freewheeling, we're too cool for labels, we're just hanging out type of thing.
So to recap - My sister and I are BOTH bringing the boys (her's is newer than mine) in our lives to my dad's house. For Thanksgiving. It's freaking me out. I swear that just last week, we were teenagers crammed in the back of my dad's Ford Thunderbird, arguing over leg space, and annoyed that we had to make the trip to Missouri for Thanksgiving again.
Can you believe there is more awesomeness to this post?
I've mentioned how my kitchen skills are absolutely nonexistent before. Well, there is one exception. It's a Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake that my aunt used to make every year. It's full of double layer deliciousness. My mother loved it so much that she got the recipe, and she taught me how to make it. As soon as I was old enough, it became my job to make this dessert whenever requested. The problem is that over the years of growing up and moving, I somehow lost the beloved recipe. I had bits and pieces in my head, but not the whole thing. Well, over the last 2 months, I've racked my brain, searched the internet, done some testing, and come up with the recipe!! No one has had it since my aunt passed away years and years ago. My dad let it slip that I'm making it this year, and I have some very excited relatives expecting it. It's a lot of pressure. I better not screw this one up.
I also started packing last night. I'm trying to justify 8 pairs of shoes for 5 days. I know I won't wear them all, but I need all 8 pairs. Not a single one can be left behind. I also have 3 different outfits for Thanksgiving day because I just don't know what I will feel like wearing. I'm ridiculous. It seems Kaeli has inherited my overpacking gene. The bag she created to keep herself entertained is insane. I had to talk her down from 6 Barbies to only 2. 2 stuffed animals instead of 4. Then there are the movies, music, books, crayons, markers, coloring book, and sketch pad. All of which are unexpendable. I could barely get it zipped! Plus, I'm in Texas were it is currently 60 degrees, and I consider today an absolutely freezing day. In KC, the high for the entire time I'm there is like 50 degrees! I will be spending the majority of my time in 40 degree weather. OMG. I had to cram hats, gloves, scarves, and the heaviest of our decidedly non heavy winter coats into the suitcases also.
I'm super excited, though. I can't wait to see my family! I can't wait to eat! Thanksgiving is seriously the best meal of the year!!
In case I'm not around for the rest of the week, I hope everyone has a fabulous Thanksgiving!!
I'm heading to Kansas City. Home of the Chiefs, the Royals, and my Dad!! It's my favorite place to have Thanksgiving. My dad is the youngest of 10 kids, so there are lots and lots of uncles, aunts, cousins, 2nd cousins, and 1st cousins once removed that get together to celebrate. This year is super awesome because I convinced my sister that if she really loved me she would make the trip from Maryland to Kansas City also. Which means that my dad, me, my sister, and my daughter will all be under the same roof for like 4 days! It sounds sad, but it has been forever since we've all been together. Damn living in different parts of the country.
Last year, Kaeli and I flew to KC. I'm a nervous flyer. The take off and landing freak me out every time. It's so bad that Kaeli reaches over to hold my hand when the plane starts moving. She loves flying, and tells me I'm silly for being scared. Role reversal much? This year, I decided to make it a ROADTRIP. The plan is to leave tonight for Rob's house, stay the night, and then the 3 of us will make the 8 hour drive to KC early Wednesday. It's really not that bad because I plan on making Rob do all the driving. I have the 4th Twilight book, Breaking Dawn, to read. I can't be expected to focus on the road!
Did y'all catch the very important part of the above paragraph? Rob is coming with me. To my dad's. For Thanksgiving. My dad met Rob once before we were dating, but claims he has no recollection of it. Which means, that Rob and my dad are meeting for the first time. At my dad's house. For Thanksgiving. I'm bringing a boy to my dad's house. For Thanksgiving. So weird. It's almost like I'm a grown up in a serious relationship or something.
The even weirder part is that my sister is bringing her new
So to recap - My sister and I are BOTH bringing the boys (her's is newer than mine) in our lives to my dad's house. For Thanksgiving. It's freaking me out. I swear that just last week, we were teenagers crammed in the back of my dad's Ford Thunderbird, arguing over leg space, and annoyed that we had to make the trip to Missouri for Thanksgiving again.
Can you believe there is more awesomeness to this post?
I've mentioned how my kitchen skills are absolutely nonexistent before. Well, there is one exception. It's a Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake that my aunt used to make every year. It's full of double layer deliciousness. My mother loved it so much that she got the recipe, and she taught me how to make it. As soon as I was old enough, it became my job to make this dessert whenever requested. The problem is that over the years of growing up and moving, I somehow lost the beloved recipe. I had bits and pieces in my head, but not the whole thing. Well, over the last 2 months, I've racked my brain, searched the internet, done some testing, and come up with the recipe!! No one has had it since my aunt passed away years and years ago. My dad let it slip that I'm making it this year, and I have some very excited relatives expecting it. It's a lot of pressure. I better not screw this one up.
I also started packing last night. I'm trying to justify 8 pairs of shoes for 5 days. I know I won't wear them all, but I need all 8 pairs. Not a single one can be left behind. I also have 3 different outfits for Thanksgiving day because I just don't know what I will feel like wearing. I'm ridiculous. It seems Kaeli has inherited my overpacking gene. The bag she created to keep herself entertained is insane. I had to talk her down from 6 Barbies to only 2. 2 stuffed animals instead of 4. Then there are the movies, music, books, crayons, markers, coloring book, and sketch pad. All of which are unexpendable. I could barely get it zipped! Plus, I'm in Texas were it is currently 60 degrees, and I consider today an absolutely freezing day. In KC, the high for the entire time I'm there is like 50 degrees! I will be spending the majority of my time in 40 degree weather. OMG. I had to cram hats, gloves, scarves, and the heaviest of our decidedly non heavy winter coats into the suitcases also.
I'm super excited, though. I can't wait to see my family! I can't wait to eat! Thanksgiving is seriously the best meal of the year!!
In case I'm not around for the rest of the week, I hope everyone has a fabulous Thanksgiving!!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Breaking News!!
Perez Hilton is reporting that Spencer and Heidi eloped in Mexico!
I guess I should admit that after 3 weeks of not watching The Hills, I gave into temptation and watched last Monday's episode.
Tonight is the whole "Did Lauren Sleep with Justin Bobby?" Fiasco. I can't lie. I'm going to watch. I can't help it. It's a sickness. I crave the dirty soul-dying feeling that comes after I finish an episode.
But back to my point - Heidi and Spencer are now married. This means there might be little Speidi offspring one day. This also means that Heidi is officially an idiot with the worst taste in guys ever documented.
Stay posted in case this is just a rumor, but I doubt it. Perez is rarely ever wrong!!
What do y'all think about the union of these two? Bets are being taken on 1) When she's going to be knocked up and 2) How long until the divorce.
I guess I should admit that after 3 weeks of not watching The Hills, I gave into temptation and watched last Monday's episode.
Tonight is the whole "Did Lauren Sleep with Justin Bobby?" Fiasco. I can't lie. I'm going to watch. I can't help it. It's a sickness. I crave the dirty soul-dying feeling that comes after I finish an episode.
But back to my point - Heidi and Spencer are now married. This means there might be little Speidi offspring one day. This also means that Heidi is officially an idiot with the worst taste in guys ever documented.
Stay posted in case this is just a rumor, but I doubt it. Perez is rarely ever wrong!!
What do y'all think about the union of these two? Bets are being taken on 1) When she's going to be knocked up and 2) How long until the divorce.
Ask Me What I Did This Weekend...
Hey, Kristi. What did you do this weekend?
I snaked a toilet!
I don't even know what that means, but I did it. I'm probably heading into unpleasant territory, but bear with me. Kaeli got a little too toilet paper happy and clogged the toilet. So gross. Water everywhere. Whatev. This is why I live in an apartment. I'll just call the maintenance people, right? Wrong! I live in the world's crappiest apartment complex. Well, not the apartments themselves, but the staff. They suck. It wasn't like this when I first moved in, but now it's so bad. They are disorganized and inefficient. I called the number to get the emergency maintenance people, and it was disconnected. How is that possible? So, I went to Lowe's, spent $8 on my very own toilet auger, and unclogged the damn thing myself. Who freaking needs a man? I can solve my own plumbing problems. I kick ass!!
I'm also on this get my place pretty for the holidays kick. I spent Sunday cleaning and organizing Kaeli's room. I'm still in shock over the amount of crap my daughter has. The fact that I've bought most of it astounds me. I had her go through all her toys, and she got rid of 2 huge bags of stuff that she doesn't want anymore. Her toybox is still overflowing. It's ridiculous. Plus, Kaeli loves to draw and write stories, so there are pieces of paper with half written stories everywhere. I used to try and keep them all (in case she becomes a famous author), but the sheer quantity made it impossible. Do you want to know where she keeps all of her drawings and stories? Under her bed!! I swear I have never seen so much paper in my life. I don't even know where it all comes from. I should have taken before and after pictures. It was crazy, but it's all neat and organized now. 1 project down. Next I have to tackle my closet. It's out of control.
I watched Texas Tech embarrassingly lose to Oklahoma. It was bad. So so bad.
I also found the cutest ornaments ever at Target. I love snowmen. They're my favorite thing to decorate with. These are little snowmen with little snowballs inside. I think they're so cute. The picture doesn't really do them justice. I can't wait until next week. I always put up my Christmas decorations the weekend after Thanksgiving. I love the way everything looks decorated for Christmas!!
Hope everyone else had a better weekend than me. This might shock y'all, but toilet issues and cleaning is not the most exciting way to spend a weekend!!
I snaked a toilet!
I don't even know what that means, but I did it. I'm probably heading into unpleasant territory, but bear with me. Kaeli got a little too toilet paper happy and clogged the toilet. So gross. Water everywhere. Whatev. This is why I live in an apartment. I'll just call the maintenance people, right? Wrong! I live in the world's crappiest apartment complex. Well, not the apartments themselves, but the staff. They suck. It wasn't like this when I first moved in, but now it's so bad. They are disorganized and inefficient. I called the number to get the emergency maintenance people, and it was disconnected. How is that possible? So, I went to Lowe's, spent $8 on my very own toilet auger, and unclogged the damn thing myself. Who freaking needs a man? I can solve my own plumbing problems. I kick ass!!
I'm also on this get my place pretty for the holidays kick. I spent Sunday cleaning and organizing Kaeli's room. I'm still in shock over the amount of crap my daughter has. The fact that I've bought most of it astounds me. I had her go through all her toys, and she got rid of 2 huge bags of stuff that she doesn't want anymore. Her toybox is still overflowing. It's ridiculous. Plus, Kaeli loves to draw and write stories, so there are pieces of paper with half written stories everywhere. I used to try and keep them all (in case she becomes a famous author), but the sheer quantity made it impossible. Do you want to know where she keeps all of her drawings and stories? Under her bed!! I swear I have never seen so much paper in my life. I don't even know where it all comes from. I should have taken before and after pictures. It was crazy, but it's all neat and organized now. 1 project down. Next I have to tackle my closet. It's out of control.
I watched Texas Tech embarrassingly lose to Oklahoma. It was bad. So so bad.
I also found the cutest ornaments ever at Target. I love snowmen. They're my favorite thing to decorate with. These are little snowmen with little snowballs inside. I think they're so cute. The picture doesn't really do them justice. I can't wait until next week. I always put up my Christmas decorations the weekend after Thanksgiving. I love the way everything looks decorated for Christmas!!
Hope everyone else had a better weekend than me. This might shock y'all, but toilet issues and cleaning is not the most exciting way to spend a weekend!!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Tales of a Bus Rider
When I first started commuting to work by bus, I hated it. Since then, I’ve learned to embrace it and even be thankful that I don’t take my car to work every day.
1. It’s better for the environment
2. I get lots of reading time
3. I rarely put gas in my car. I fill up maybe once every 3 weeks. Which makes visiting Rob less financially straining.
4. My company pays for the majority of the bus pass, so I’m seriously saving money. Especially when gas was $4/gallon.
5. When everyone else is working late, I can use the excuse “I have to catch my bus” and get the hell out of dodge!! (I don’t really do that. I just take a later bus. Ok. Fine. I would do that if it got really late)
Sometimes, though, things happen that make me forget all of the positive reasons for taking public transportation.
Today was one of those days.
I hopped on the bus this morning and took a window seat. I almost always take a window seat. Generally, I read or pull out my iPod, but today I got wrapped up in staring out the window. Weird I know, but this fact becomes important later.
A man sat down next to me. I glanced over and responded to his “Hi. Good Morning.” He seemed like a normal bus commuter. I’m horrible at guessing ages, but I’d put him in his mid to late 40s.
I continued staring out the window and thinking that I should open my book and start reading.
A few minutes into the ride the dude starts talking to me. I do not enjoy strangers talking to me in the morning, but I tried to be polite.
Middle-aged Stranger: Can I ask you a few questions?
Me: Um. Questions? Really? OK. (me thinking: you have to be effing kidding me. Why do I always get stuck next to people that want to talk to me?)
Middle-aged Stranger: What’s your name?
Me: Kristi.
MAS: What kind of music do you listen to?
Me: Um. I listen to lots of different stuff.
MAS: OK. Here’s a tough one. When I look over, you’re staring out the window deep in thought. What are you thinking about?
Me: Nothing really. Just looking out the window I guess. (like I’m really going to tell him that I was daydreaming about my boyfriend. I’m a really good daydreamer. I can zone into my own head with very little effort. All of this is almost too embarrassing to admit even here. )
Then he paused for a while. I went on looking out the window. I wanted to open my book, but I thought it might look rude now that he had initiated conversation.
He didn’t pause for long. As soon as we turned downtown he started up again.
MAS: I have another question for you.
Me: Ok. (dear god will this never end)
MAS: How about you come and play a game of pool and go to dinner with me tonight?
Me: Um. Um. Sorry. I have plans tonight. (Is he for real? This isn't really happening, is it?)
Being hit on is always a little strange for me (socially awkward when put on the spot remember), but this was just plainicky weird. I know guys have a tough job. It’s hard to ask someone out, but the DUDE was MIDDLE AGED. That means he was my DAD’S AGE. Have I unknowingly crossed the age threshold where almost 50 year old men think that it is appropriate to ask me out? Furthermore, he asked me out for tonight. A Friday night. Do I look like the type of girl who doesn’t have plans on a Friday night? Granted, I don’t have plans, but my inflated ego I thought I was still young and attractive enough for guys to assume I was busy!! I mean no disrespect to women who like their men 20+ years older than them, but it is so not my bag. Let's not forget that it was 7 AM. That is just way too early to be asking someone out. I hadn't even had my coffee yet! Oh and can y'all imagine how awkward it was for the rest of the bus ride. I don't think I breathed until he got off at his stop. I wanted to just curl into myself and die! This really wasn't my idea of a great start to my day. What an uncomfortable morning.
Rob was absolutely no help. I emailed him about it as soon as I got to work. His response? "That's awesome. My girlfriend is a bus babe." I don't think he gets it.
April thinks I should go to Wal-Mart and get one of those fake engagement rings to wear whenever I use public transportation. That’s not a bad idea.Or maybe it's time for Rob to consider buying me a real one!!
I now have a new bus rule. Never look out the window of a bus. Always be inaccessible and busy with a book or an iPod!!!
1. It’s better for the environment
2. I get lots of reading time
3. I rarely put gas in my car. I fill up maybe once every 3 weeks. Which makes visiting Rob less financially straining.
4. My company pays for the majority of the bus pass, so I’m seriously saving money. Especially when gas was $4/gallon.
5. When everyone else is working late, I can use the excuse “I have to catch my bus” and get the hell out of dodge!! (I don’t really do that. I just take a later bus. Ok. Fine. I would do that if it got really late)
Sometimes, though, things happen that make me forget all of the positive reasons for taking public transportation.
Today was one of those days.
I hopped on the bus this morning and took a window seat. I almost always take a window seat. Generally, I read or pull out my iPod, but today I got wrapped up in staring out the window. Weird I know, but this fact becomes important later.
A man sat down next to me. I glanced over and responded to his “Hi. Good Morning.” He seemed like a normal bus commuter. I’m horrible at guessing ages, but I’d put him in his mid to late 40s.
I continued staring out the window and thinking that I should open my book and start reading.
A few minutes into the ride the dude starts talking to me. I do not enjoy strangers talking to me in the morning, but I tried to be polite.
Middle-aged Stranger: Can I ask you a few questions?
Me: Um. Questions? Really? OK. (me thinking: you have to be effing kidding me. Why do I always get stuck next to people that want to talk to me?)
Middle-aged Stranger: What’s your name?
Me: Kristi.
MAS: What kind of music do you listen to?
Me: Um. I listen to lots of different stuff.
MAS: OK. Here’s a tough one. When I look over, you’re staring out the window deep in thought. What are you thinking about?
Me: Nothing really. Just looking out the window I guess. (like I’m really going to tell him that I was daydreaming about my boyfriend. I’m a really good daydreamer. I can zone into my own head with very little effort. All of this is almost too embarrassing to admit even here. )
Then he paused for a while. I went on looking out the window. I wanted to open my book, but I thought it might look rude now that he had initiated conversation.
He didn’t pause for long. As soon as we turned downtown he started up again.
MAS: I have another question for you.
Me: Ok. (dear god will this never end)
MAS: How about you come and play a game of pool and go to dinner with me tonight?
Me: Um. Um. Sorry. I have plans tonight. (Is he for real? This isn't really happening, is it?)
Being hit on is always a little strange for me (socially awkward when put on the spot remember), but this was just plain
Rob was absolutely no help. I emailed him about it as soon as I got to work. His response? "That's awesome. My girlfriend is a bus babe." I don't think he gets it.
April thinks I should go to Wal-Mart and get one of those fake engagement rings to wear whenever I use public transportation. That’s not a bad idea.
I now have a new bus rule. Never look out the window of a bus. Always be inaccessible and busy with a book or an iPod!!!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Living Vicariously Through My Child
Kaeli and I went to the store to pick up a few things. I thought it would be a good idea to let her scan the toy section to get an idea for Christmas presents. This is our conversation over a Girl Crush Hair Beader.
Me: Cool! A hair beader! I wanted one of these so badly when I was a little girl.
Kaeli: And all your dreams can come true when you buy it for me.
That has to be the most effective technique she has used yet. I seriously love having a daughter. A son would never let me have a hair beader!!!
Me: Cool! A hair beader! I wanted one of these so badly when I was a little girl.
Kaeli: And all your dreams can come true when you buy it for me.
That has to be the most effective technique she has used yet. I seriously love having a daughter. A son would never let me have a hair beader!!!
What The Hell Wednesday
Welcome to our new segment WTH Wednesday!! Today, I get to talk about all the things I read, hear, or experience where the only response I can come up with is What The Hell!
(I maybe sorta kinda stole this title from The View because I love that show. I want to be BFFs with Joy and Whoopi)
- Did y'all notice that I posted 4 separate times yesterday? WTH? I swear I really do have a job, a kid to raise, dishes to do, laundry to fold, lots of TV to watch, and the 3rd Twilight book, Eclipse, to finish. I just couldn't be stopped!
- Speaking of Eclipse - **If you don't want to read a tiny spoiler then turn away now** - Bella is getting on my nerves just a little bit. I'm not very far in, but her persistence to be friends with Jacob is making me crazy. Bella, he's a werewolf and the "love of your existence" is a vampire. They are mortal enemies. Get over it. Plus, you're begging Edward to make you a vampire. WTH? Vampires and werewolves can't be friends. Stop causing trouble by sneaking off to see Jacob!!!
- A man in Florida is facing battery charges for hitting his girlfriend with a sandwich. WTH? Hitting your girlfriend is wrong. Hitting her with a sandwich is just weird, and a waste of a good sandwich!
- A blind elderly woman in Massachusetts faced having a lien put on her home for an outstanding water bill. The amount of the bill? 1 cent. WTH? The debt has been paid. This is just ridiculous. There has to be more important things to worry about than a penny.
(I maybe sorta kinda stole this title from The View because I love that show. I want to be BFFs with Joy and Whoopi)
- Did y'all notice that I posted 4 separate times yesterday? WTH? I swear I really do have a job, a kid to raise, dishes to do, laundry to fold, lots of TV to watch, and the 3rd Twilight book, Eclipse, to finish. I just couldn't be stopped!
- Speaking of Eclipse - **If you don't want to read a tiny spoiler then turn away now** - Bella is getting on my nerves just a little bit. I'm not very far in, but her persistence to be friends with Jacob is making me crazy. Bella, he's a werewolf and the "love of your existence" is a vampire. They are mortal enemies. Get over it. Plus, you're begging Edward to make you a vampire. WTH? Vampires and werewolves can't be friends. Stop causing trouble by sneaking off to see Jacob!!!
- A man in Florida is facing battery charges for hitting his girlfriend with a sandwich. WTH? Hitting your girlfriend is wrong. Hitting her with a sandwich is just weird, and a waste of a good sandwich!
- A blind elderly woman in Massachusetts faced having a lien put on her home for an outstanding water bill. The amount of the bill? 1 cent. WTH? The debt has been paid. This is just ridiculous. There has to be more important things to worry about than a penny.
***********************************************************
Update on the Lip Fiasco from yesterday!!
First, y'all have the best ideas! S, I've never used the rosebud salve, but I am intrigued. I'll definitely have to get some! Astarte - You are so wise. I would have never thought to use Orajel! I'm totally going to try it. This little nugget of information is awesome!
I ended up running to the store in a panic after work. The pain. Oh. The Pain. I grabbed $15 worth of lip moisturizers. Pretty much anything that didn't have the words "peppermint oil" in the ingredients. The first one was still too harsh. It burned the dry parts. No fun. Then, I tried this random Swedish one, Lypsyl. I will never be able to fully express the joy that I felt when I put it on. It stopped the burning. It felt so good. I'm in love. Before bed I also put about 2 pounds of Vaseline on my lips. That helped a lot too. My lips aren't quite 100% kissable yet, but they feel so much better than yesterday. My Lypsyl is within an arms length of me at all times now!!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Tween Girls Hearts Are Breaking All Over The World Tonight
I let Kaeli stay up past bedtime to watch the Dancing with the Stars Results Show. I'm usually a stickler about bedtime. I haven't let her do this all season, but the show is almost over and she's just so cute when she watches it. I'll pay for it in the morning, I'm sure.
We got to the elimination, and Cody and Julianne's names were called.
Kaeli: Wait, what does that mean?
Me: Well, they got the least amount of votes so they're going home. They won't be on next week.
Kaeli: WHAT?! They're going home? Mom, we didn't vote enough! We didn't keep them on! We should have done better!!
Me: (this is were I lied because I didn't vote for Cody at all) Kaeli, we tried our best. They did a good job and got really far.
Kaeli then jumped off the couch and stomped to her room. She fell asleep mourning the loss of Cody. Kids sure are insane about their Hannah Montana stars. She was so upset. I feel a little bad thinking that it's funny. It just proves that, along with my lipbalm addiction and flair for the dramatic, she also inherited my tendency to get way too emotionally involved in reality tv.
We got to the elimination, and Cody and Julianne's names were called.
Kaeli: Wait, what does that mean?
Me: Well, they got the least amount of votes so they're going home. They won't be on next week.
Kaeli: WHAT?! They're going home? Mom, we didn't vote enough! We didn't keep them on! We should have done better!!
Me: (this is were I lied because I didn't vote for Cody at all) Kaeli, we tried our best. They did a good job and got really far.
Kaeli then jumped off the couch and stomped to her room. She fell asleep mourning the loss of Cody. Kids sure are insane about their Hannah Montana stars. She was so upset. I feel a little bad thinking that it's funny. It just proves that, along with my lipbalm addiction and flair for the dramatic, she also inherited my tendency to get way too emotionally involved in reality tv.
Pain is Beauty, Beauty is Pain
I'm a lipgloss slut junkie. I have no less than 5 different kinds in my purse at any given time. In fact, I have a little lipgloss purse inside of my actual purse to keep my lipglosses and chapsticks easy to find.
I'm also a Targetho addict. If I go in for 1 thing, you can bet I'm leaving with $50 worth of stuff. It's a habit I'm trying to break.
Two weeks ago, I was getting my Target fix, and I found a really fun lipgloss. CoverGirl WetSlicks AmazeMint. It's a lipgloss with Crest peppermint oil, so you get a little boost of fresh breath with your lipgloss application. How could a junkie, like me, resist. I even bought 2 different colors! How exciting to hit 2 of my addictions in 1 trip.
At first, I loved it. Such a great concept, but I'm beginning to think that I might be having some type of reaction to it!!! I'm not sure if it's the lipgloss or just run of the mill weather getting colder lip issues. I used the lipgloss for a few days, but then my lips started seriously hurting. I don't even know how to explain it. It's like they burn on the outer edges. They feel really tight too, maybe dry. They don't really look cracked or chapped.
No amount of chapstick is helping the situation. I've used the Burt's Beeswax stuff for years, but now it burns the edges of my lips if I use it. I'm assuming it's the peppermint oil. I frantically used some SoftLips Organic stuff that Kaeli had laying around (she seems to have inherited my affinity for lip coverage). In a fit of desperation, I even smeared super dry skin lotion on the edges of my lips. It didn't seem to help either.
Since they burn, I keep catching myself licking my lips. Which is only making things worse.
Like I said, I'm not sure it's the lipgloss. I noticed it last week. It got bad enough to irritate me on Saturday, and now it's agony. I haven't used the lipgloss the entire time. Colder weather does tend to wreak havoc on my skin, so I guess it could be that.
I'll put up with a lot in the name of beauty. I'll pluck and wax. I'll suffer through uncomfortable shoes. I'll spend hours getting the right cut and color. But agonizing lip pain sucks, and I can't take it anymore. I'm going to have to go and stock up on every kind of lip moisturizer I can find. Anyone have any suggestions?
I'm also a Target
Two weeks ago, I was getting my Target fix, and I found a really fun lipgloss. CoverGirl WetSlicks AmazeMint. It's a lipgloss with Crest peppermint oil, so you get a little boost of fresh breath with your lipgloss application. How could a junkie, like me, resist. I even bought 2 different colors! How exciting to hit 2 of my addictions in 1 trip.
At first, I loved it. Such a great concept, but I'm beginning to think that I might be having some type of reaction to it!!! I'm not sure if it's the lipgloss or just run of the mill weather getting colder lip issues. I used the lipgloss for a few days, but then my lips started seriously hurting. I don't even know how to explain it. It's like they burn on the outer edges. They feel really tight too, maybe dry. They don't really look cracked or chapped.
No amount of chapstick is helping the situation. I've used the Burt's Beeswax stuff for years, but now it burns the edges of my lips if I use it. I'm assuming it's the peppermint oil. I frantically used some SoftLips Organic stuff that Kaeli had laying around (she seems to have inherited my affinity for lip coverage). In a fit of desperation, I even smeared super dry skin lotion on the edges of my lips. It didn't seem to help either.
Since they burn, I keep catching myself licking my lips. Which is only making things worse.
Like I said, I'm not sure it's the lipgloss. I noticed it last week. It got bad enough to irritate me on Saturday, and now it's agony. I haven't used the lipgloss the entire time. Colder weather does tend to wreak havoc on my skin, so I guess it could be that.
I'll put up with a lot in the name of beauty. I'll pluck and wax. I'll suffer through uncomfortable shoes. I'll spend hours getting the right cut and color. But agonizing lip pain sucks, and I can't take it anymore. I'm going to have to go and stock up on every kind of lip moisturizer I can find. Anyone have any suggestions?
It's Her World, I'm Just Living In It
There have been other things going on in the life of a Material Girl besides my new Twilight obsession.
Shocking. I know.
It’s actually Kaeli’s life because it’s All About Kaeli Day.
Last week was her school carnival. It’s a huge fundraising event the school does every year. It’s actually a lot of fun. The school goes all out. There are lots of games and activities. Kaeli had her hair spray painted blue, her face painted with stars and a butterfly, and went through 4 cans of silly string spraying down other kids in the silly string pit. There was also a petting zoo, a bunch of inflatable bouncy houses, and The Rock Climbing Wall! Kaeli is obsessed with the rock climbing wall. It always scares me a little because she is so tiny, but she loves it and is pretty good at it. Plus, there was a Cupcake Walk. Kaeli talked about the darn cupcake walk for days. She was so excited to try and win a cupcake. When we got to the carnival, it was the first thing we did. But Kaeli's super shyness kicked in and she wouldn't even look at the people running the game. She looked straight at the ground while standing on her chosen number (10). The volunteers spun the wheel. It stopped on 10!! She won! Hurray! I think I showed more excitement than she did. She didn't even seem to care. She took her ticket and walked away. She got so shy that she was really nervous when they made a big deal about her winning! Crazy kid.
I also had a Parent/Teacher Conference. Her teacher said stuff I pretty much already knew. Kaeli is the smartest and best six year old in the world. She has never loved a student more. She’s going to quit teaching as soon as Kaeli is out of 1st grade because no other kid will ever bring the same amount of joy to her job. The usual stuff. Ok. I might be exaggerating a little. The teacher did say that Kaeli is a great student, she’s adjusted well to 1st grade, and is a super sweet kid to have in class. Apparently, Kaeli is also a bit of a chatterbox, but I’m not really surprised. After all, she is her mother’s daughter.
Kaeli also got her report card for the 2nd six weeks. This report card is a huge milestone (at least it is in my warped brain) because it’s the first time Kaeli received real numerical grades! Before it was all S’s, N’s, and U’s (Kaeli only got S’s, thank you very much.). The numerical grades are for the 4 main subjects. Now to invade her privacy (and brag) a little:
Reading – 96
Language – 96
Spelling – 97
Math – 95
I’m super proud of her. It’s probably crazy, but I’m relieved that she is doing so great because I think it bodes well for the future. If she can develop a strong foundation now, hopefully she’ll have an easier time when things get tougher or when/if she ever goes all adolescent on me and refuses to do homework (I might have put my parents through that phase).
In other news, it seems that Kaeli has developed an aversion to the word Dork. I can say that she is Silly or being a Goofball, but if the word Dork crosses my lips, she goes into full on freak out mode. She gets all frustrated and tells me that it's not nice and that I know she doesn't like it so I need to stop right now! It's actually really funny. (Some of y'all might be appalled at my choice of nicknames, but Kaeli is a really funny kid - when she's not overcome with nerves. It's hard not to call her a Goofball. Plus, there are loads of other nice ones like Sugar Plum and Angel Face that I say too.)
Last, but not least, I might still be feeling a little guilty about tricking her into going to bed an hour early on Thursday. I let her stay up an extra half hour last night, so that she could watch Dancing with the Stars with me. She loves the show because of all of the “pretty outfits” the dancers wear. Plus, she is the most fun to watch DWTS with because she gets so excited about the scores. She keeps her little fingers crossed and chants “10, 10, 10. Give them all 10s”. She doesn’t care which team it is (I’m rooting for Lance and Lacey). She just wants everyone to get 10s. Then when the team gets a 10, she shouts and cheers. It’s too cute.
OK. That’s Kaeli’s life in a nutshell right now. Doesn’t your life feel more complete now that you know everything going on in the world of a 6 year old?!
Gifts, Gifts, Gifts
Melissa clued me into The Holiday Gift Guide over at Musings of a Housewife. There are a lot of really great gift ideas to check out. I think it will be great for some of the harder to shop for people on my list! Plus, most of the items on the guide are from moms with small businesses. I can definitely support that!! What are you waiting for? Go check it out!
There might even be some really cool giveaways going on over there too!
There might even be some really cool giveaways going on over there too!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Why Can’t My Boyfriend Be Like Edward Cullen?
I did it.
I gave in.
I'm a changed girl.
As part of my “Kristi needs serious downtime to get rid of the grumpiness” weekend, I decided that I would indulge in a little Twilight. I bought Twilight and New Moon several weeks ago, but then I got into that pesky book backlog I told y’all about. I innocently started reading, and by the middle of Twilight I was hooked, so I ran out Saturday and bought last 2 books in the series. I couldn’t face life without the complete series at my fingertips
I knew that I would like them (mostly because I enjoy anything marketed to a 14 year old girl), but I didn’t realize that I would LOVE them.
I’ve become obsessed. I don’t know how it happened, but I can’t get enough. I can’t even explain how it happened. One minute, I’m enjoying a fun story, and, the next thing I know, I’m totally consumed by these books.
I neglected all weekend chores. No cleaning got done. No laundry was done (until late last night when I realized that there wasn’t a single clean article of clothing for me or Kaeli to wear). No blogging. No reading of other blogs. I have no clue what even happened in the news this weekend.
Kaeli was so sick of seeing me with a book in my hands. I didn’t put it down. Saturday night, when I finished Twilight and immediately started New Moon, Kaeli was like “Mom, are you still reading about those stupid vampires?” I had to stop myself from telling her that we are moving to Forks, Washington so that I can find my very own vampire love. Six is probably a little young to realize that your mother is completely insane.
Rob finally had to ask me to stop talking about Edward. He couldn’t take my nonstop lusting over a vampire. I can’t help it. Edward is just so fantastic. I think I have fallen in love with him. I can’t stop thinking about him.
Then, when I got to work this morning, the woman that sits in the cube across from me said that I looked different today. I realized that I must have that crazy wild eye look of someone who just spent 72 hours consumed by Edward Cullen.
By Sunday night, I had finished Twilight and New Moon. I just wish I had another day! Staring at Eclipse, but not being able to read it because of work is like pure torture. I’m not generally a rereader when it comes to books, but I’m already fighting the urge to reread Twilight.
I fully understand all of those teenage girls freaking out at malls now!! I want to be right there with them. What has happened to me?
I gave in.
I'm a changed girl.
As part of my “Kristi needs serious downtime to get rid of the grumpiness” weekend, I decided that I would indulge in a little Twilight. I bought Twilight and New Moon several weeks ago, but then I got into that pesky book backlog I told y’all about. I innocently started reading, and by the middle of Twilight I was hooked, so I ran out Saturday and bought last 2 books in the series. I couldn’t face life without the complete series at my fingertips
I knew that I would like them (mostly because I enjoy anything marketed to a 14 year old girl), but I didn’t realize that I would LOVE them.
I’ve become obsessed. I don’t know how it happened, but I can’t get enough. I can’t even explain how it happened. One minute, I’m enjoying a fun story, and, the next thing I know, I’m totally consumed by these books.
I neglected all weekend chores. No cleaning got done. No laundry was done (until late last night when I realized that there wasn’t a single clean article of clothing for me or Kaeli to wear). No blogging. No reading of other blogs. I have no clue what even happened in the news this weekend.
Kaeli was so sick of seeing me with a book in my hands. I didn’t put it down. Saturday night, when I finished Twilight and immediately started New Moon, Kaeli was like “Mom, are you still reading about those stupid vampires?” I had to stop myself from telling her that we are moving to Forks, Washington so that I can find my very own vampire love. Six is probably a little young to realize that your mother is completely insane.
Rob finally had to ask me to stop talking about Edward. He couldn’t take my nonstop lusting over a vampire. I can’t help it. Edward is just so fantastic. I think I have fallen in love with him. I can’t stop thinking about him.
Then, when I got to work this morning, the woman that sits in the cube across from me said that I looked different today. I realized that I must have that crazy wild eye look of someone who just spent 72 hours consumed by Edward Cullen.
By Sunday night, I had finished Twilight and New Moon. I just wish I had another day! Staring at Eclipse, but not being able to read it because of work is like pure torture. I’m not generally a rereader when it comes to books, but I’m already fighting the urge to reread Twilight.
I fully understand all of those teenage girls freaking out at malls now!! I want to be right there with them. What has happened to me?
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Are Y'all Watching 30 Rock?
You totally should be! It's like the funniest show on TV!!
Randomness brought to you by beer. God Bless Fridays off!!
Randomness brought to you by beer. God Bless Fridays off!!
You Gotta Do What You've Gotta Do
I mentioned Monday that I was feeling grumpy. Well, that feeling hasn't gone away. For no apparent reason, I am petulant and bitchy bratty.
Tonight, I tricked Kaeli into going to bed an hour early because I needed some down time.
I feel a little guilty, but the quiet and the beer are easing that pain.
Throw my name in the hat for the Mom of the Year Award.
Tonight, I tricked Kaeli into going to bed an hour early because I needed some down time.
I feel a little guilty, but the quiet and the beer are easing that pain.
Throw my name in the hat for the Mom of the Year Award.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Quitting The Hills - Progress Report
Three weeks ago I decided that I was over The Hills. The relationship wasn't making me happy anymore. It's been tough letting go, but here is an update on my journey to quit The Hills.
Week 1 - Monday, October 27th. This was a tough week. Could I really just not watch it? I didn't think I was strong enough to quit cold turkey. I decided to ease myself into quitting so that I could learn to fight the craving. At 9:00pm, I flipped to MTV and started watching. Then, I got up and cleaned my whole kitchen. I figured, this way, it was on as background noise. I got my fix without paying super close attention. Every time Spencer came on the screen, I just turned on the water faucet to drown out his rude attention seeking comments. On the plus side, my kitchen was super clean by the last silent glance between Lauren and Whitney.
Week 2 - Monday, November 3rd. The Hills was still set to record on my DVR. Instead of watching it, I turned off the TV and read a book. I left it on my DVR. Then, on Thursday, I did some routine clean up of my overworked DVR. The Hills was there. Taunting me. Begging to be watched. I almost caved. I figured that I was in control. It's not Monday. I wasn't a slave to the MTV line up. I was watching it on my own terms, but then I thought of Spencer and his ugly fleshbeard. I deleted it off my DVR. Unwatched. It felt good.
Week 3 - Monday, November 10th. A friend of mine called at 8:30pm. We chit-chatted for a while. When we got off the phone, I realized that The Hills was finished recording. I pulled up my DVR recorded list and immediately deleted it. This was the most decisive victory yet. There was no wavering. Just the desire to be done with the battle.
I still have some work to do. I haven't managed to bring myself to delete the preset recording yet. And, in week 2, I read a recap of the episode Tuesday morning. It's still hard sometimes. I battle my addiction daily. I miss Lo, and her quiet bitchiness. I miss the knowing looks from Lauren. I even miss Audrina's whining about Justin Bobby, but 3 weeks without Spencer has been well worth all the pain.
Week 1 - Monday, October 27th. This was a tough week. Could I really just not watch it? I didn't think I was strong enough to quit cold turkey. I decided to ease myself into quitting so that I could learn to fight the craving. At 9:00pm, I flipped to MTV and started watching. Then, I got up and cleaned my whole kitchen. I figured, this way, it was on as background noise. I got my fix without paying super close attention. Every time Spencer came on the screen, I just turned on the water faucet to drown out his rude attention seeking comments. On the plus side, my kitchen was super clean by the last silent glance between Lauren and Whitney.
Week 2 - Monday, November 3rd. The Hills was still set to record on my DVR. Instead of watching it, I turned off the TV and read a book. I left it on my DVR. Then, on Thursday, I did some routine clean up of my overworked DVR. The Hills was there. Taunting me. Begging to be watched. I almost caved. I figured that I was in control. It's not Monday. I wasn't a slave to the MTV line up. I was watching it on my own terms, but then I thought of Spencer and his ugly fleshbeard. I deleted it off my DVR. Unwatched. It felt good.
Week 3 - Monday, November 10th. A friend of mine called at 8:30pm. We chit-chatted for a while. When we got off the phone, I realized that The Hills was finished recording. I pulled up my DVR recorded list and immediately deleted it. This was the most decisive victory yet. There was no wavering. Just the desire to be done with the battle.
I still have some work to do. I haven't managed to bring myself to delete the preset recording yet. And, in week 2, I read a recap of the episode Tuesday morning. It's still hard sometimes. I battle my addiction daily. I miss Lo, and her quiet bitchiness. I miss the knowing looks from Lauren. I even miss Audrina's whining about Justin Bobby, but 3 weeks without Spencer has been well worth all the pain.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Looks Like Someone Has a Case of the Mondays
I am super grumpy today. So grumpy that I'm even annoying myself.
- I could not stay focused at work to save my life. All I could do was stare at a Excel spreadsheet with no interest in actually doing anything with it.
- The time change means it's super dark when I get home from work. I haven't gotten used to it yet. It's so depressing.
- It was pouring rain when I left work today. Guess where my umbrella was. If you picked on the passenger seat of my car in the parking lot of the park and ride then you get a gold star. I had to use my jacket to protect THE PURSE leaving my hair to fend for itself against the elements. I was wet and cold the whole way home.
- My apartment is so messy, but dishes be damned. I'm so not cleaning up tonight.
- Kaeli gets out of school at 3:40pm. I get home around 6:00pm. Her grandma picks her up from school and keeps Kaeli in the afternoons. I realize how lucky I am to have this help. BUT - Why in the hell does Kaeli never have her homework done when I pick her up? She is there everyday for 2 freaking hours, and, as far as I can tell, she just watches TV and eats junk food the whole time. It's so frustrating. She goes to bed at 8:00pm, which means that we have 2 short hours for homework, dinner, shower, and reading. I barely get to just play with her during the week. It would be so nice to have a little extra time to just hang out, but, no matter how many times I mention it, the homework never gets done. Her grandma is a teacher for fuck's sake! Shouldn't school work be a priority?
I am so crawling into bed early tonight and forgetting that today happened!
Friday, November 7, 2008
We Dodged a Bullet!
HeHe. Jon Stewart is funny.
I know part of this was for comedic effect, but so much of it is true. Sarah Palin couldn't name the countries in North America. Seriously? How is that possible? Her state even borders one of them! Maybe because she can't see it from her house, she thinks is doesn't exist.
She's only 44. We could be seeing her face for the next 20 to 30 years. How scary!! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that all of this new information makes it impossible for her to remain a viable Republican candidate!!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Book Nerd - 2nd Edition
Sometimes I get stuck in book dry spells. A book dry spell is very annoying. Nothing sounds interesting, and I can't find anything I want to read. Everything seems pointless and not worth the effort.
Then all of the sudden, my curiosity is piqued by so many books that an enormous stack begins growing on my table.
This is one of those times. The stack just keeps getting bigger. It's so fun!!
I believe the last time I regaled y'all with my fabulous literary opinions, I was reading Jennifer Weiner's Good In Bed. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book. I figured it would hold true to chick lit nature and be a light and fun read, but it was way less shallow than the title would suggest. It was so much better than I expected it to be. I can't even put into words all the things I loved about it. It was so smart and funny. I want the main character, Cannie, to be my new best friend. It was my first Jennifer Weiner book, but it definitely won't be my last.
I picked up The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd a year ago. I tried to read it, but couldn't get into it so I put it down on a shelf and never looked at it again. Then, I hit my previously mentioned book dry spell. I decided to try it again, and I am so glad that I did. I think the first 30 pages or so were a little slow which is what made it hard to get into the first time. Once I got past them, it picked up and was a really great book. Normally, I read through a book pretty quickly, but there was something about Secret Life that made me want to take it slow and really enjoy the reading process.
I've mentioned before that the new book club over at Literally Booked had it's first selection, The Heretic's Daughter. We haven't discussed it yet (which means that there is still time for more of y'all to read it!!) so I won't get to far into it, but it was very good. It's not a fun and cheery book at all. It was haunting and thought-provoking. It's definitely a book that stays with you long after you have finished it. It's not like any book I've ever read before. I think being introduced to books that I wouldn't have selected on my own is going to be my favorite part about participating in a book club.
After an emotionally tough book like The Heretic's Daughter, I wanted something light and silly. I picked up Love the One You're With by Emily Giffin. I've read her books before and really enjoyed Something Borrowed and Something Blue, but O.M.G. I hated this book. Not since high school, when my senior English teacher made us read Gulliver's Travels, have I hated a book so much. The main character was totally unlikeable. She was a spoiled brat who complained nonstop, constantly compared her life to other's, and, in my opinion, had disdain for everyone she considered "mainstream". I am so glad that I got this one from the library because no one should have to spend money to read a story that dragged on so pointlessly. I really tried to give the author the benefit of the doubt. I kept reading and hoping that there would be one thing that would redeem the story, but nothing ever came. Even the ending was a complete and utter letdown. I almost want to recommend this book to people just so that I can have someone else understand how much I hate it. Anyone want to waste 342 pages of your life and talk bad about a fictional character with me? Anyone?
That about does it for now. Time to get back to work on that never-ending stack I told you about. Stay-tuned!!!
Then all of the sudden, my curiosity is piqued by so many books that an enormous stack begins growing on my table.
This is one of those times. The stack just keeps getting bigger. It's so fun!!
I believe the last time I regaled y'all with my fabulous literary opinions, I was reading Jennifer Weiner's Good In Bed. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book. I figured it would hold true to chick lit nature and be a light and fun read, but it was way less shallow than the title would suggest. It was so much better than I expected it to be. I can't even put into words all the things I loved about it. It was so smart and funny. I want the main character, Cannie, to be my new best friend. It was my first Jennifer Weiner book, but it definitely won't be my last.
I picked up The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd a year ago. I tried to read it, but couldn't get into it so I put it down on a shelf and never looked at it again. Then, I hit my previously mentioned book dry spell. I decided to try it again, and I am so glad that I did. I think the first 30 pages or so were a little slow which is what made it hard to get into the first time. Once I got past them, it picked up and was a really great book. Normally, I read through a book pretty quickly, but there was something about Secret Life that made me want to take it slow and really enjoy the reading process.
I've mentioned before that the new book club over at Literally Booked had it's first selection, The Heretic's Daughter. We haven't discussed it yet (which means that there is still time for more of y'all to read it!!) so I won't get to far into it, but it was very good. It's not a fun and cheery book at all. It was haunting and thought-provoking. It's definitely a book that stays with you long after you have finished it. It's not like any book I've ever read before. I think being introduced to books that I wouldn't have selected on my own is going to be my favorite part about participating in a book club.
After an emotionally tough book like The Heretic's Daughter, I wanted something light and silly. I picked up Love the One You're With by Emily Giffin. I've read her books before and really enjoyed Something Borrowed and Something Blue, but O.M.G. I hated this book. Not since high school, when my senior English teacher made us read Gulliver's Travels, have I hated a book so much. The main character was totally unlikeable. She was a spoiled brat who complained nonstop, constantly compared her life to other's, and, in my opinion, had disdain for everyone she considered "mainstream". I am so glad that I got this one from the library because no one should have to spend money to read a story that dragged on so pointlessly. I really tried to give the author the benefit of the doubt. I kept reading and hoping that there would be one thing that would redeem the story, but nothing ever came. Even the ending was a complete and utter letdown. I almost want to recommend this book to people just so that I can have someone else understand how much I hate it. Anyone want to waste 342 pages of your life and talk bad about a fictional character with me? Anyone?
That about does it for now. Time to get back to work on that never-ending stack I told you about. Stay-tuned!!!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Yes We Can!!!
I am speechless.
I am overjoyed.
I feel inspired.
I feel empowered.
I want to fix America.
I want to fix the world.
Congratulations, President-Elect Obama! January can't come soon enough. I am so proud that you are our 44th president. "Change has come to America," and I could not be more proud to be an American.
I am overjoyed.
I feel inspired.
I feel empowered.
I want to fix America.
I want to fix the world.
Congratulations, President-Elect Obama! January can't come soon enough. I am so proud that you are our 44th president. "Change has come to America," and I could not be more proud to be an American.
November 4, 2008
It is 8:11am. The polls have been open in Texas for 1 hour and 11 minutes. I should be working, but all I can focus on is how hugely important today is. Today will be exciting. Today will be historic. Today we get to elect the new leader of our country.
I locked in my vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden last week thanks to Texas early voting. I called Rob at 6:45am to get him up and out to his polling location when it opened today.
I've always been excited about elections, but this one is different. This one ignites a feeling I've never had before, and I don't know how to put it into the words the way more eloquent bloggers have.
I locked in my vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden last week thanks to Texas early voting. I called Rob at 6:45am to get him up and out to his polling location when it opened today.
I've always been excited about elections, but this one is different. This one ignites a feeling I've never had before, and I don't know how to put it into the words the way more eloquent bloggers have.
I think it's because I truly believe that this election will make or break this country. America is strong and America is resilient, but we just can't take anymore of the failed policies that have been brought on us the last 8 years.
We need change. We need someone to believe in. We need someone to inspire us.
There is not a doubt in my mind that Barack Obama is the right person for the job.
So get out and vote today. And if you happen to live in California, vote NO on Prop 8!!!
Monday, November 3, 2008
It's Weekend Update Time!!
**Warning - This could possibly get very long. I just have so much to say!!**
Rob came to town this weekend, and it turns out that he seriously impacts my blogging. I just have no time to write or even read other blogs because of all of the snuggling on the couch that we have to fit in to make up for the 2 weeks that I haven't seen him!!
He decided to come in Thursday night, which made me super happy because it's an extra night of snuggling. Then, he had the nerve to wake up sick on Friday morning. I'm not talking a little cold, he was seriously sick. He even dragged his ass to the doctor that day because he felt so crappy. The doctor confirmed. Rob was seriously sick and given lots of medicine.
Apparently, I can't let anyone be sick on their own because I woke up Saturday feeling like crap. (God forbid someone has more attention than me!) It was like I suddenly got sympathy sick or something. Nothing was wrong with me, but I couldn't move because I felt so icky. Miraculously, it's Monday, and he's still sick but I'm totally fine. I'm starting to see a pattern that I'll be fine during the work week, then once the weekend hits, I'm plagued with all sorts of vague symptoms that ruin my weekend. So not awesome.
Even with the sickness all around, the weekend must go on.
Friday, I volunteered for Kaeli's school field trip. I generally don't get to volunteer for school stuff because of work, but it just so happened that the field trip fell on one of my Fridays off. (My company does the whole 9/80 thing, and I have every other Friday off. I don't know what I did before 3 days weekends came into my life.) The field trip was at the zoo, and it was a lot of fun. There is A LOT of parent participation at Kaeli's school so there were a lot of moms and dads there. I rode with a group of other moms I had never met before. They all had at least 3 kids (2 had like 5 kids) and looked shocked that I only had one. So shocked that these complete strangers asked if I was planning on having more. Maybe I'm crazy, but telling my life plan to strangers is weird for me (but that makes no sense because I tell the whole internet about my life...whatev...i'm a contradiction), and I get a little socially awkward when put on the spot. I think I mumbled something like "Um. I don't know. I guess it's possible. One is suiting me fine for now. Blah blah blah."
I was paired up with another mom and we had 5 girls to take around the zoo. I thought 5 girls was going to be super easy, but OMG was I wrong. Did y'all know that when girls get together they shriek? A lot. 3 out of the 5 of them cried (mine included) and by the end of the day I was totally exhausted. I did learn a lot about sea lions and koala bears, though. Did anyone else know that sea lions are not born knowing how to swim? Their mothers teach them. Isn't that nice? And koala bears sleep like 18 hours a day.
Then, Friday night was Halloween (duh!). Kaeli was Sharpay from HSM (another duh because we live and breath all things Disney). We went trick or treating with my friend and her kids. It's times like this that I wish I wouldn't have told certain real life friends about my blog because I really want to vent about something that happened. I'm pretty sure she doesn't read it, but I'll leave it at some drama went down with said friend's husband,and I'm still super pissed about it. I don't even want to look at him. I probably shouldn't still be mad. It's her life and all, but I can't help it. I feel like this was just the last straw on me trying to get along with him. Which sucks because I see them all the time. I know that I'm dramatic, but I really don't like drama. There's a total difference!
Saturday, Rob made this super awesome dinner (even though he wasn't feeling very well. Isn't that nice of him). He made spaghetti, and the sauce was from scratch. He didn't just pour it from a jar! Since, my kitchen skills are nonexistent, I'm so glad he's Italian and a super fantastic cook.
Then, he made me watch the Bond movie, Casino Royale. I seriously wanted to scratch my eyeballs out. That movie is 2 1/2 hours long, and I think 1 hour of it was totally pointless. I like a good action movie as much as the next girl, but this one was not good. It's like the movie makers were trying to break the Guinness Book of World Records on fight scenes and plot twists with no concern to how it affected the movie. He wants me to go and see the new one that's coming out it a couple of weeks, but I just don't think I can handle it. I might have to suggest that he has boys night for that movie!!
Hurray to those of you that made it to the end of the longest blog post ever!! I completely understand those of you who just skimmed and/or stopped halfway!!
Rob came to town this weekend, and it turns out that he seriously impacts my blogging. I just have no time to write or even read other blogs because of all of the snuggling on the couch that we have to fit in to make up for the 2 weeks that I haven't seen him!!
He decided to come in Thursday night, which made me super happy because it's an extra night of snuggling. Then, he had the nerve to wake up sick on Friday morning. I'm not talking a little cold, he was seriously sick. He even dragged his ass to the doctor that day because he felt so crappy. The doctor confirmed. Rob was seriously sick and given lots of medicine.
Apparently, I can't let anyone be sick on their own because I woke up Saturday feeling like crap. (God forbid someone has more attention than me!) It was like I suddenly got sympathy sick or something. Nothing was wrong with me, but I couldn't move because I felt so icky. Miraculously, it's Monday, and he's still sick but I'm totally fine. I'm starting to see a pattern that I'll be fine during the work week, then once the weekend hits, I'm plagued with all sorts of vague symptoms that ruin my weekend. So not awesome.
Even with the sickness all around, the weekend must go on.
Friday, I volunteered for Kaeli's school field trip. I generally don't get to volunteer for school stuff because of work, but it just so happened that the field trip fell on one of my Fridays off. (My company does the whole 9/80 thing, and I have every other Friday off. I don't know what I did before 3 days weekends came into my life.) The field trip was at the zoo, and it was a lot of fun. There is A LOT of parent participation at Kaeli's school so there were a lot of moms and dads there. I rode with a group of other moms I had never met before. They all had at least 3 kids (2 had like 5 kids) and looked shocked that I only had one. So shocked that these complete strangers asked if I was planning on having more. Maybe I'm crazy, but telling my life plan to strangers is weird for me (but that makes no sense because I tell the whole internet about my life...whatev...i'm a contradiction), and I get a little socially awkward when put on the spot. I think I mumbled something like "Um. I don't know. I guess it's possible. One is suiting me fine for now. Blah blah blah."
I was paired up with another mom and we had 5 girls to take around the zoo. I thought 5 girls was going to be super easy, but OMG was I wrong. Did y'all know that when girls get together they shriek? A lot. 3 out of the 5 of them cried (mine included) and by the end of the day I was totally exhausted. I did learn a lot about sea lions and koala bears, though. Did anyone else know that sea lions are not born knowing how to swim? Their mothers teach them. Isn't that nice? And koala bears sleep like 18 hours a day.
Then, Friday night was Halloween (duh!). Kaeli was Sharpay from HSM (another duh because we live and breath all things Disney). We went trick or treating with my friend and her kids. It's times like this that I wish I wouldn't have told certain real life friends about my blog because I really want to vent about something that happened. I'm pretty sure she doesn't read it, but I'll leave it at some drama went down with said friend's husband,and I'm still super pissed about it. I don't even want to look at him. I probably shouldn't still be mad. It's her life and all, but I can't help it. I feel like this was just the last straw on me trying to get along with him. Which sucks because I see them all the time. I know that I'm dramatic, but I really don't like drama. There's a total difference!
Saturday, Rob made this super awesome dinner (even though he wasn't feeling very well. Isn't that nice of him). He made spaghetti, and the sauce was from scratch. He didn't just pour it from a jar! Since, my kitchen skills are nonexistent, I'm so glad he's Italian and a super fantastic cook.
Then, he made me watch the Bond movie, Casino Royale. I seriously wanted to scratch my eyeballs out. That movie is 2 1/2 hours long, and I think 1 hour of it was totally pointless. I like a good action movie as much as the next girl, but this one was not good. It's like the movie makers were trying to break the Guinness Book of World Records on fight scenes and plot twists with no concern to how it affected the movie. He wants me to go and see the new one that's coming out it a couple of weeks, but I just don't think I can handle it. I might have to suggest that he has boys night for that movie!!
Hurray to those of you that made it to the end of the longest blog post ever!! I completely understand those of you who just skimmed and/or stopped halfway!!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Have You Seen My Self-Esteem? I Think I Left it Somewhere.
I picked Kaeli up from her grandparent’s house last night, and she had made a photo album. It was really cute, and it had a lot of old pictures in it. I’m not even sure where she got some of the pictures, but I guess 6 year olds have their ways.
As I was flipping through it, I came across a picture of me. Let me set the stage – I was 19. I had just gotten back from a trip to Cancun with my friend, April. I was very tan (more like ridiculously sunburnt but whatev). My hair was in braids with beads on the end (because if you’re drunk in Mexico, you have to pay someone to braid your hair. It’s a rule.).
Me: Wow. This is an old picture. I look so young.
Kaeli: Yeah, you were a lot prettier when you were younger.
Me: KAELI! That’s SO not nice!
Kaeli: I’m sorry, but it’s true. Your face was prettier.
So there you have it.
Excuse me while I immediately lose 5 pounds, get a spray tan, slather on anti-aging cream, and search endlessly for the fountain of youth.
As I was flipping through it, I came across a picture of me. Let me set the stage – I was 19. I had just gotten back from a trip to Cancun with my friend, April. I was very tan (more like ridiculously sunburnt but whatev). My hair was in braids with beads on the end (because if you’re drunk in Mexico, you have to pay someone to braid your hair. It’s a rule.).
Me: Wow. This is an old picture. I look so young.
Kaeli: Yeah, you were a lot prettier when you were younger.
Me: KAELI! That’s SO not nice!
Kaeli: I’m sorry, but it’s true. Your face was prettier.
So there you have it.
Excuse me while I immediately lose 5 pounds, get a spray tan, slather on anti-aging cream, and search endlessly for the fountain of youth.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Here I Come to Save the Day! Or Not.
Kaeli has this cheap plastic top hat that she got from school. She likes to fill it with stuff, put it on her head, and then pretend she's a magician and pull the stuff out of the hat. It's very very cute.
Over the weekend we were decorating the balcony of our apartment (I feel I am not responsible enough to handle a house of my own right now!!) for Halloween and putting out pumpkins. When we went inside for the night, she left her top hat and its contents on the balcony.
This morning actually felt like fall (finally!). It was cold and very windy. Kaeli looked outside and realized that her top hat was gone. She was quite upset about it. I told her that was the reason we don't leave our stuff outside. She seemed to get over it, and when we left I decided to be Super Mom and look for the hat. After a small search, I found the top hat and her red ribbon in the grass not far from our building.
Me: Look what I found, Kaeli! It's your hat and ribbon!
Kaeli: What about my little purse?
Me: Well, I didn't see your little purse, but I found your hat and ribbon!
Kaeli: (Uncontrollable wailing begins) But I really love that purse!!
OMG. I faced the cold. I risked windblown hair. I searched. I found the stupid hat that she was upset about, and THEN she springs the cheap $2 purse she got from the school store on me. I had to spend 5 minutes calming her down. I tried to explain that there is another school store on Wednesday, and she can just get another one. It didn't help. Complete and utter meltdown. Totally uncharacteristic of my sweet little child. Kaeli is normally pretty laid back. She goes with the flow. She has been called the Easiest Kid Ever (and not just by me), but lately she has been super emotional. If she's this bad at 6, I don't want to imagine how she's going to act when the hormones of puberty hit her!
So, my plans of being Super Mom failed. Instead, I think I made the whole situation worse. I get no respect!!
Over the weekend we were decorating the balcony of our apartment (I feel I am not responsible enough to handle a house of my own right now!!) for Halloween and putting out pumpkins. When we went inside for the night, she left her top hat and its contents on the balcony.
This morning actually felt like fall (finally!). It was cold and very windy. Kaeli looked outside and realized that her top hat was gone. She was quite upset about it. I told her that was the reason we don't leave our stuff outside. She seemed to get over it, and when we left I decided to be Super Mom and look for the hat. After a small search, I found the top hat and her red ribbon in the grass not far from our building.
Me: Look what I found, Kaeli! It's your hat and ribbon!
Kaeli: What about my little purse?
Me: Well, I didn't see your little purse, but I found your hat and ribbon!
Kaeli: (Uncontrollable wailing begins) But I really love that purse!!
OMG. I faced the cold. I risked windblown hair. I searched. I found the stupid hat that she was upset about, and THEN she springs the cheap $2 purse she got from the school store on me. I had to spend 5 minutes calming her down. I tried to explain that there is another school store on Wednesday, and she can just get another one. It didn't help. Complete and utter meltdown. Totally uncharacteristic of my sweet little child. Kaeli is normally pretty laid back. She goes with the flow. She has been called the Easiest Kid Ever (and not just by me), but lately she has been super emotional. If she's this bad at 6, I don't want to imagine how she's going to act when the hormones of puberty hit her!
So, my plans of being Super Mom failed. Instead, I think I made the whole situation worse. I get no respect!!
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Pumpkin Carving Fun
Kaeli and I carved pumpkins today!
Doesn't she look really excited to be in the church pumpkin patch taking pictures with a scarecrow?
Our super happy face and cool kitty. The glitter and rhinestones added by Kaeli.
It took me 3 hours to get the pumpkins cleaned out and carved. I always look forward to carving pumpkins until I'm actually doing it. Now, I'm going to try roasting the pumpkin seeds. My mom used to do it when I was a kid, but I've never done it myself. Kaeli loves them so I guess I have to get over my whole avoid the kitchen at all costs plan. Mother duty calls!
P.S. I told Kaeli she could listen to the HSM3 soundtrack while going to bed. She's in her room singing the ballads at the top of her lungs. This HSM obsession has to end sometime, right?
Doesn't she look really excited to be in the church pumpkin patch taking pictures with a scarecrow?Our super happy face and cool kitty. The glitter and rhinestones added by Kaeli. It took me 3 hours to get the pumpkins cleaned out and carved. I always look forward to carving pumpkins until I'm actually doing it. Now, I'm going to try roasting the pumpkin seeds. My mom used to do it when I was a kid, but I've never done it myself. Kaeli loves them so I guess I have to get over my whole avoid the kitchen at all costs plan. Mother duty calls!
P.S. I told Kaeli she could listen to the HSM3 soundtrack while going to bed. She's in her room singing the ballads at the top of her lungs. This HSM obsession has to end sometime, right?
Zac Efron Overload
If you have a Disney obsessed daughter (or son) then you probably know what happened this weekend. An event that one certain 6 year old has been looking forward to for weeks.
High School Musical 3 hit the theaters.
In an effort to continue being the best mom ever, we have had a nonstop High School Musical weekend. Friday night was a marathon of the previous two movies. Saturday was seeing HSM3, and since then the HSM3 soundtrack has been blaring in Kaeli's room. Over and over and over.
My confession is that I actually love the HSM movies. I think they're adorable, and I may or may not know the words to every song. The fact that I tend to love anything marketed to a 13 or 14 year old girl probably helps.
Mostly, I love Zac Efron. Why couldn't my high school boyfriend be like Troy Bolton? I don't even think it's fair for a guy to be that pretty. He's so nice to look at, and the amount of times he appears shirtless definitely increases in each movie.
As much as I enjoy all things HSM, I think I'm reaching the overload point. I don' t know how much longer I can take it. The syrupy sweetness is seeping into my brain. I'm starting to think it's normal to break out in song and choreographed dancing at pivotal moments of conversations.
Now please excuse me while I create a song and dance to accompany me as I make lunch.
High School Musical 3 hit the theaters.
In an effort to continue being the best mom ever, we have had a nonstop High School Musical weekend. Friday night was a marathon of the previous two movies. Saturday was seeing HSM3, and since then the HSM3 soundtrack has been blaring in Kaeli's room. Over and over and over.
My confession is that I actually love the HSM movies. I think they're adorable, and I may or may not know the words to every song. The fact that I tend to love anything marketed to a 13 or 14 year old girl probably helps.
Mostly, I love Zac Efron. Why couldn't my high school boyfriend be like Troy Bolton? I don't even think it's fair for a guy to be that pretty. He's so nice to look at, and the amount of times he appears shirtless definitely increases in each movie.
As much as I enjoy all things HSM, I think I'm reaching the overload point. I don' t know how much longer I can take it. The syrupy sweetness is seeping into my brain. I'm starting to think it's normal to break out in song and choreographed dancing at pivotal moments of conversations.
Now please excuse me while I create a song and dance to accompany me as I make lunch.
Friday, October 24, 2008
It's a Magical Place Full of Books, and They Let You Borrow Them For FREE
I've always read a lot, but I've never been a library person.
In fact, the last book I remember checking out of the library was Ramona, The Pest when I was 8. I vaguely remember the library in my high school, and I'm not sure that I ever went in there. I did research in the library in college, but I just photocopied what I needed at got the heck out.
My parents kept me supplied with lots and lots of books. My mom was addicted to the self help section of the nearest bookstore, and she would always buy me whatever books I wanted. Seriously, how can you say "No" to a kid asking for books? (I’m coming to the realization that I was much more spoiled than I have ever given my parents credit for)
That’s how I’ve lived my life. If I wanted a book, I went to the store and bought it. At 10 years old, I had amassed a huge book collection. Most of which was sold in a neighbor’s garage sale when I was 13 and decided that those books were too kidish for my new teenage awesomeness. As an adult, it has resulted in a ridiculous amount of books piled onto shelves and thrown into boxes.
It’s only been made worse since I started commuting to work by bus last year. I’m going through books like crazy. I started thinking about heading to the library to cure my addiction, but never got around to it.
Then, a couple of things happened.
First, Astarte started up a book club over at Literally Booked. I’ve always wanted to be in a book club, but none of my friends were ever big readers like me. I considered being in Oprah’s Book Club, but the pandemonium surrounding it is just too much. I have read some of Oprah’s Book Club selections after the insanity, and the woman can pick a good book. Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides was fantastic.
Second, the economy went into a crazy downward spiral, and I’m, irrationally, afraid that Kaeli, me, and the rest of the world will be living in cardboard boxes and standing in bread lines before things get better. I figured that the library would be a good way to cut back and save more while we ride out this crazy mess.
I decided that Literally Booked’s very first selection, The Heretic’s Daughter, would be my first library book. It was surprisingly easy. Last week, I registered online and even put myself on the list for the book (I was 21st in line!). When I checked my account yesterday, the book was ready for me to pick up! I went into the library (so close to were I live), and they had the book in an envelope with my name on it. I even picked up a couple more that I’ve been meaning to read. I was also given a bright shiny new library card! I felt so special.
I should admit that I felt slightly silly at first because I didn’t know where they kept the special held books, and I didn’t even know where to check out!! There were 8 year olds getting around the library better than me. (Don’t worry, I still remember the Dewey Decimal System)
Anyway, it was fun walking out of the library with 3 new books to read. (I am going to miss that new book smell, though).
I have to say, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
In fact, the last book I remember checking out of the library was Ramona, The Pest when I was 8. I vaguely remember the library in my high school, and I'm not sure that I ever went in there. I did research in the library in college, but I just photocopied what I needed at got the heck out.
My parents kept me supplied with lots and lots of books. My mom was addicted to the self help section of the nearest bookstore, and she would always buy me whatever books I wanted. Seriously, how can you say "No" to a kid asking for books? (I’m coming to the realization that I was much more spoiled than I have ever given my parents credit for)
That’s how I’ve lived my life. If I wanted a book, I went to the store and bought it. At 10 years old, I had amassed a huge book collection. Most of which was sold in a neighbor’s garage sale when I was 13 and decided that those books were too kidish for my new teenage awesomeness. As an adult, it has resulted in a ridiculous amount of books piled onto shelves and thrown into boxes.
It’s only been made worse since I started commuting to work by bus last year. I’m going through books like crazy. I started thinking about heading to the library to cure my addiction, but never got around to it.
Then, a couple of things happened.
First, Astarte started up a book club over at Literally Booked. I’ve always wanted to be in a book club, but none of my friends were ever big readers like me. I considered being in Oprah’s Book Club, but the pandemonium surrounding it is just too much. I have read some of Oprah’s Book Club selections after the insanity, and the woman can pick a good book. Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides was fantastic.
Second, the economy went into a crazy downward spiral, and I’m, irrationally, afraid that Kaeli, me, and the rest of the world will be living in cardboard boxes and standing in bread lines before things get better. I figured that the library would be a good way to cut back and save more while we ride out this crazy mess.
I decided that Literally Booked’s very first selection, The Heretic’s Daughter, would be my first library book. It was surprisingly easy. Last week, I registered online and even put myself on the list for the book (I was 21st in line!). When I checked my account yesterday, the book was ready for me to pick up! I went into the library (so close to were I live), and they had the book in an envelope with my name on it. I even picked up a couple more that I’ve been meaning to read. I was also given a bright shiny new library card! I felt so special.
I should admit that I felt slightly silly at first because I didn’t know where they kept the special held books, and I didn’t even know where to check out!! There were 8 year olds getting around the library better than me. (Don’t worry, I still remember the Dewey Decimal System)
Anyway, it was fun walking out of the library with 3 new books to read. (I am going to miss that new book smell, though).
I have to say, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Can Someone Please Make Them Go Away
While obsessively checking Perez Hilton, I stumbled upon this little gem.
Is Spencer really trying to rock flannel while carrying a 6-pack?
And Heidi, we all know you don't actually read books. Don't even get me started on those shoes with those shorts.
I know they have the tendency to stage "candid" photo ops, but, seriously, this might be the most ridiculous one I've ever seen.
I believe in supporting your candidate, but it's probably not smart to embarrass yourself in the process.
Is Spencer really trying to rock flannel while carrying a 6-pack?
And Heidi, we all know you don't actually read books. Don't even get me started on those shoes with those shorts.
I know they have the tendency to stage "candid" photo ops, but, seriously, this might be the most ridiculous one I've ever seen.
I believe in supporting your candidate, but it's probably not smart to embarrass yourself in the process.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
The Right Stuff
NKOTB Post! NKOTB Post!
This is the guys' entrance. Do y'all remember those old school Michael Jackson concerts where girls would faint? Well, I totally understand them now. By this point, the excitement (not just me, the whole arena) had built up so much that I was shaking! There was so much jumping and screaming (not just me, the whole arena). To finally see them was amazing.
Opening song!! Single! It's one of my favorite songs on the new album. They were so hot doing all these sexy dance moves!
Yay! Jordan!
Here's a little something for the Joey fans! He can seriously rock some skinny jeans!
Even Danny grew up to be hot!
Jon in an Obama shirt!! I didn't think it was possible, but I love NKOTB a little more.
Yay! More Jordan! Damn, I wish I was that girl behind him. She's so lucky.
Throw back to 1989! They were singing I'll Be Loving You (Forever). Jordan can still do that super sexy falsetto. There's something about it that makes me tingle!
I just felt this picture was too amazing not to add it again. He looks so HOT. Lots of dirty things come to mind whenever I see it. I'm considering making it poster size and hanging it over my bed. This was my favorite part (not because of the shirtlessness) because Jordan sang his single from his solo album. Give It To You. I seriously loved this song in high school. This Jordan Knight obsession has seriously lasted my entire life!
Right after they sang Click Click Click. Such a great picture of the five of them.
Aww. Donny was so cute and funny during the whole show.
NO!!! Don't be over! Don't leave me again! They finished with Hanging Tough. So great!
Here are some of the pictures from the New Kids on the Block Concert! The tickets said that cameras weren't allowed, but NKOTB hasn't toured in like 15 years. I wasn't going to follow that stupid rule. It turned out that most the other fans felt the same way. The girls I was with didn't bring theirs in, so we took turns taking pictures on my camera. We have about a million fabulous ones.
This is the guys' entrance. Do y'all remember those old school Michael Jackson concerts where girls would faint? Well, I totally understand them now. By this point, the excitement (not just me, the whole arena) had built up so much that I was shaking! There was so much jumping and screaming (not just me, the whole arena). To finally see them was amazing.
Opening song!! Single! It's one of my favorite songs on the new album. They were so hot doing all these sexy dance moves!Yay! Jordan!
Here's a little something for the Joey fans! He can seriously rock some skinny jeans!Even Danny grew up to be hot!
Jon in an Obama shirt!! I didn't think it was possible, but I love NKOTB a little more.
Yay! More Jordan! Damn, I wish I was that girl behind him. She's so lucky.Throw back to 1989! They were singing I'll Be Loving You (Forever). Jordan can still do that super sexy falsetto. There's something about it that makes me tingle! I just felt this picture was too amazing not to add it again. He looks so HOT. Lots of dirty things come to mind whenever I see it. I'm considering making it poster size and hanging it over my bed. This was my favorite part (not because of the shirtlessness) because Jordan sang his single from his solo album. Give It To You. I seriously loved this song in high school. This Jordan Knight obsession has seriously lasted my entire life! Right after they sang Click Click Click. Such a great picture of the five of them.Aww. Donny was so cute and funny during the whole show.
NO!!! Don't be over! Don't leave me again! They finished with Hanging Tough. So great! I've been to a fair amount of concerts in my day, and, I swear, this was the best one I have ever seen! You could tell that they were having so much fun, and they really catered to the audience. I'm so glad I got to be a part of it! It was a really good mix of old and new stuff. Plus, Jordan and Joe sang their singles from their solo albums. I can't talk about it without smiling. It took like 3 days for my voice to come back.
It was totally one of the most fun nights ever!
It was totally one of the most fun nights ever!
Monday, October 20, 2008
The Hills - Why Can't I Quit You
For the life of me, I can't figure out why I'm still tuning in to this show. Every time I watch it I get more and more annoyed with these people, and yet, every Monday night I'm sitting in front of my TV watching the ridiculousness. I used to call it my guilty pleasure, but I'm not getting any pleasure anymore!!
Spencer & Heidi- I hate him. I hate him more than anyone should hate someone that they have never met. He's such a douche. Does Heidi just not watch the show? How can she still be with him? If some guy made me choose between him and my sister, he would be hitting the road. I used to think Heidi was kind of fun and cool (you know back in season 1 before I hated myself for watching). Now I just think she is a joke. She's such an idiot.
Audrina & Justin Bobby - O. M. G. I just can't take them anymore. Back and forth. Back and forth. Ugh!! I thought tonight she was growing a backbone. Choosing the hot Australian over grungy always looking stoned JB, but the previews for next week have the two of them right back together. Audrina - You're a pretty girl and He's Just Not That Into You, take Lauren's advice. It's time to let go!
Does anyone else find it incredibly annoying that Doug, Frankie, and Brody do absolutely nothing, but they still get to hop on a private jet for a trip to Cabo to celebrate Brody's bday.
Does it seem like it is always Brody's birthday to anyone else?
Stephanie - Stop trying to get your brother to like you. He's an ass. He's never going to be nice to you.
Lauren - Did y'all know she makes $75,000/episode?
Whitney - Nice, sweet Whitney. The only one who doesn't make me want to throw things at the TV. She has her own spin off starting soon. The City. She's working with DVF in New York. Awesome, but should I torture myself with another silly realty show? I can't take it if she goes all annoying on me. It would be too heartbreaking.
The Hills makes me crazy, but I can't stop. Does anyone else feel like a part of their soul is dying every Monday night?
P.S. Did y'all really think you were going to get away with only on NKOTB concert pic (and what an amazing picture it is)? More pics to come. We were super close and the show was fabulous! I'm still waiting for my voice to come back. I currently sound somewhere between an 82 year old with a 3 pack a day cigarette habit and a puberty stricken 12 year old boy. It's not pretty.
Spencer & Heidi- I hate him. I hate him more than anyone should hate someone that they have never met. He's such a douche. Does Heidi just not watch the show? How can she still be with him? If some guy made me choose between him and my sister, he would be hitting the road. I used to think Heidi was kind of fun and cool (you know back in season 1 before I hated myself for watching). Now I just think she is a joke. She's such an idiot.
Audrina & Justin Bobby - O. M. G. I just can't take them anymore. Back and forth. Back and forth. Ugh!! I thought tonight she was growing a backbone. Choosing the hot Australian over grungy always looking stoned JB, but the previews for next week have the two of them right back together. Audrina - You're a pretty girl and He's Just Not That Into You, take Lauren's advice. It's time to let go!
Does anyone else find it incredibly annoying that Doug, Frankie, and Brody do absolutely nothing, but they still get to hop on a private jet for a trip to Cabo to celebrate Brody's bday.
Does it seem like it is always Brody's birthday to anyone else?
Stephanie - Stop trying to get your brother to like you. He's an ass. He's never going to be nice to you.
Lauren - Did y'all know she makes $75,000/episode?
Whitney - Nice, sweet Whitney. The only one who doesn't make me want to throw things at the TV. She has her own spin off starting soon. The City. She's working with DVF in New York. Awesome, but should I torture myself with another silly realty show? I can't take it if she goes all annoying on me. It would be too heartbreaking.
The Hills makes me crazy, but I can't stop. Does anyone else feel like a part of their soul is dying every Monday night?
P.S. Did y'all really think you were going to get away with only on NKOTB concert pic (and what an amazing picture it is)? More pics to come. We were super close and the show was fabulous! I'm still waiting for my voice to come back. I currently sound somewhere between an 82 year old with a 3 pack a day cigarette habit and a puberty stricken 12 year old boy. It's not pretty.
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