ramble

It doesn't seem to be that many people are keeping up with the blog world. Although, it is a busy time of year...but it is how I keep up with my friends. Then I think that is going down hill. It's inevitable, when you move away, you eventually lose touch. Take for instance Julie and Peter. Julie and Peter moved to Germany a couple months before I moved to Virginia. We kept in touch like champs for the longest time. Sent snail mail, did the email thing and the calls. However, life got in the way, and we slowing moved to just writing emails here and there. I care for them all the same, that hasn't changed, but our inside jokes are no longer played back and forth on a weekly basis anymore. I am finding this to be the same with some other friends. It is my fault just the same. I don't call them all that much, and vise-versa. Half the time I don't want to hear about them going out all the time knowing that I am home on the computer, working, or watching TV. They are still living the same life, and I have changed mine up a bit. And I am doing it again.

I have been getting ready for a new adventure. This time around, I do have to say, things been a little more difficult for me. I am having to get ride of things that mean a lot to me. Stuffed animals that I have had since I can remember, favorite clothes - sweatshirts mainly (I kept all my Purdue sweatshirts). Tuesday I am donating some pieces of furniture that was my grandfathers. I know it is what I need to do, and I understand that. I know I should only take what I need and really really like....but it was Grandpa's. It is odd going through every drawer, every container and cleaning out as much as possible. Yes, I will admit, I have kept a lot of junk throughout the years, but some things have great memories behind them. Yesterday, it broke my heart, but I threw out the letters that Julie and I would write (snail mail style). Well I am off to clean out more drawers. I am getting there! The hard part is done.

Holiday time

It is the holiday time and this year I feel I am not enjoying it like I usually do. This year I am more inundated with work and trying to plan out the correct steps for the New Year. I would love to take my mind off of work and the upcoming year for a bit. I have planned a trip to NC, but that isn't until the second weekend in January, so that doesn't do me any good. I have a book on the six great scientists, yes Einstein is one of the six, and maybe I will pick that up tonight. I don't believe that will do the trick though. I would like to hit up DC and walk around. Maybe I will do that next weekend. Go see the stars at the Einstein Planetarium or see how much I weight on Jupiter! You know what I would really like, sit outside and look up at the stars. Man, I can do that for hours and be perfectly content. Maybe I will go for a walk tonight - but where? I don't believe I know of any parks around here.

On a side note, I have been listening to wbee online web streaming all day today. That has been a treat. Hearing similar voices and commercials for the places back home. If it weren't for that, I don't believe I would have smiled today.

Back to work!

reflection

Today I did something right, at least to me. I have had a lot on my mind, and seeing some friends hasn't made things any easier. Today it hit me, I brought out and watched the one thing I have to watch to bring back the courage and the strength I know I have. I college I made a documentary as my final for a class I was taking. This documentary was on a person in my life that, to me, was a strong, loving, encouraging, intelligent man. He was also someone I was, in a way, afraid of. Curt was someone, like people I strive to be like, I never wanted to disappoint. There aren't many of those in my life, and I was happy to have him be that type of person to me. Asking him if he would allow me to make a documentary on his life was one of the most terrifying things I ever did. Yes, this sounds odd, but if he said no...wow, I don't know how I would have handled that. Luckily he agreed to it. Two weeks later, I planned one full day to devote myself to following him. That was one of the best days on my life, and I have it all on tape.

Today I brought that documentary out and I watched it, and watched it again. Watching this brings back all the dreams I used to share with him. He always had faith in me, more faith than I ever had in myself. Today, yesterday, and last week I needed that reminder. I needed to remind myself that there are people that have faith in me besides my family. Family - sometimes you think, they have to have faith. But Curt didn't have to, he chose to. I will probably watch this a couple more times today, tomorrow and weeks to come to remind me that I can do anything I put my mind to. To remind me that we were put on earth to live out lives, not live in regret. To remind me that we need to do for others just like we do for ourselves. To remind me that life is what you make of it. Yes, these are all things we know...but to hear it over and over and over again, it helps. This helps me stand behind the decision I have made.

I hope everyone has or has had this person in their life. I haven't seen Curt in 5-6 years, but I was lucky to have gotten to know him. That is more than I can ask for.

Thirsty Thursday

Happy Thirsty Thursday!

I think today will be a good day. Adam is back at work, he has been out for 7 days, not that I was counting. He is one of my good friends at work, and him being gone that long made work even more sad. Especially because his father passed, and you just wanted to know how he was doing. You wanted to do something, but all you can really do is pray and be there if asked.

Anywho, back to my good day - Adam is back, and I am smiling again. It is nice to be smiling again. Yesterday was a bitter sweet day for me. I have been listening to some opinions of people that don't know me all that well. The know the business Kelly, not the Kelly out side of work - and they think that I could be making the worst mistake of my life. At 4pm yesterday, I kicked myself in the ass. Why am I even letting them get to me. Two months ago, I knew that I wanted to pursue this because of the opportunity it brought. Then comes Thanksgiving and the week following, I started to doubt. Well I am done doubting. I am back on track, thinking about what I want, where I want to be. Currently, my closest friends are a 6 hour drive, either North Carolina or upstate New York. Immediate family is in DC and upstate New York. I came to the DC area knowing that it would be temporary, and this holds true. Yes, I like it here, but this isn't where I want to stay. So, it will be a 6 hour drive or a 6 hour flight...so be it. So as I said, today is a good day. Yes, I will miss seeing Dawn and Jim 4-5 times a year, but I have to do what I believe is best for me right now.

As for Thirsty Thursday - I hope everyone is able to enjoy an nice happy hour!!

A little Charlie Brown...

I am in need of a Lucy and Charlie session.

Speaking to my brother yesterday, he asked me how my decision making process is going. I am down to the Yes or No part of the processes, and I am wondering what my friends think. My parents are great, but in a way they are making this very difficult. Dad is being very helpful, helping price things out, and mom as saying she is proud that I received such a nice compliment. (They came to me.)

You may email me and ask me questions to help give advice. But I don't want to hear, go or don't go with no reason. I need to hear the reasons. Or Go it would be fun. Or Don't Go - because with out you we would't be able to survive. (hehe! okay, so it got a little deep in here, moving on.) My close friends read this, and I would love to hear what they think. Ultimatly it is my decision, but in a way, you are my family too. I have known you guys since early college years, if not longer...and you all know me fairly well, this is why I ask you. For those that don't know me all that well...you may call me crazy at this point!!

I am off to get ready for work. To all my Lucy's out there, I am your Charlie Brown!

Holiday Challenge

People seem to forget the importance of the holidays.

I have been pretty quiet lately at work, which has given me the opportunity to observe. It is interesting to hear what people are talking about. To say the least, it has been pretty depressing. What I hear is complaints, and nothing but.

People are asking what others are doing for the holiday's and you hear about gifts. Some are upset because they are not getting what they want. Other's picking out their own gifts, so they get what they like. To me, this is so very sad.

While this conversation is going on, a co-worker/friend of mine unexpectedly lost his father this week. I bring this up because what I hear most are those worried about gifts, while this one co-worker is going through one of the biggest losses of his life.

We need to listen to what we are saying. What you are talking about? Are you more worried about what will be under your tree, or what you will be receiving for Hanukkah? To me, everyone needs to take 10 giant steps back and look at what we have around us and be thankful. Look at the meaning as to why you celebrate these joyous holiday's - realize that it isn't about the gifts, it is about something so much more. Yes, Thanksgiving has past, but that doesn't mean it is time to get greedy - it is still time to be thankful.

This holiday season, I challenge everyone around me to open there eyes and see the deeper meaning behind this. Forget about the gifts, forget about the ads for all the stores. Take a walk, smell the winter air, and think about what the best gift of all is. Is it something that you can put a price on? Is it something you will find in a store? Or is it something you already have that you can cherish from this day on?

If you have trouble with this, turn on any Holiday movie and it will help you remember.

Happy Thanksgiving!

It is that time of year were we are encouraged to express the things we are thankful for.

I am thankful for:
~ My family (extended family)- the overflowing love they provide everyday of the year
~ My home - the warmth it provides me through the year
~ My job - hey, it pay's the bills!
~ My friends - the laughter and tears
~ My faith - without the Lord in my life, I don't know where I would be
~ Bart - having someone to go home to and the end of everyday that loves me no matter what I do to him!!
~ Food - we all know I love that!
~ Education - for where would we be with out it
~ cell phones - this sounds materialistic, but this is how i keep in touch with my friends and family on daily basis.
~ Kyle - you keep me on my toes! Thank you for letting me be me - and being there when I need you the most. Thank you for your love and support.
~ Mom - I don't know what I would do with out you. Our morning coffee talks on the way to work...you are my best friend and I would be lost with out you. The past three years have brought us closer than I ever thought we could be. I couldn't have asked for a better three years. Thank you for your love and support.
~ Dad - I couldn't have asked for anything better. Thank you for letting me hangout with you, learn from you, and aspire to be like you. It means the world to me when I get to work on projects with you - whether it be remodeling/woodworking, actual work work, or cooking. Thank you for your love and support.

In this Thanksgiving season, please accept my wish that throughout 2006 you can honestly say that--for the most part--you have done the right things for the right reasons with the right intentions because if you can say that, you can be truly grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Beer on the Strip

The past five days have been pretty interesting. I had a blast in Vegas. It was so nice to be working in a fun environment due to the people I was with. I haven't smiled that much while working in a long time.

A little bit of my past...I would have to say I haven't dated all that many guys. I am usually pretty picky. I have yet to date that one guy where when you are with him, everything is great becuase he is there. About 9-10 years ago, I met someone that made me feel special. Never dated this guy, but when he was there I had a smile on my face. I liked him, but never had the nerve to tell him - never thought he would see me the same way. This guy I saw again on Sunday. We picked up right where we left off the last time we hung out, that was never a problem with us. It felt great to be walking down the strip catching up one what has happened the past years. Saying goodbye to him was one of the most difficult things I have done in a very long time. You tend to forget how much people mean to you and how they impacted your life. All those feelings I had 9-10 years ago can back full fledged. I wish I had more time to talk to him about everything and nothing at all. He, in my mind, rings that bell. I have never dated him, so I could be wrong - but he is a guy I never want to lose for 9-10 years again. I just hope I see him again soon.

Busy Week

This week has gone amazingly fast. Tuesday was elections...I have never been through elections the way I did on Tuesday. Usually, I do my studing, vote, get the results, done. Not this time, this time I was much closer to it. We work with people in the Governor's office, and I was invited to attend the Governor's party with some of my friends. I am expecting a nice, energetic night, man was I way off. That was the most stressful night. Sitting in the hotel room watching the polls, going down to the party doing the work mingling, back to the hotel room to watch the numbers - which were not good for us. It was up down up down the entire night. This lasted until two. It was great to see the guys - but we didn't get to have the fun we wanted. I saw the down side to working in politics. Got home at 4am. A bit tired the next day.

Wednesday I had to attend the Wizards game with work. All I wanted was my bed, after all I only had three hours of sleep the night before. The basketball game wasn't so fun...we killed the Pacers, so to excitement there. Got home at 11. Not as early as I wanted.

Yesterday was game night afterwork, which it was my turn to host. During lunch, since I did't have time to make a dinner, I went and bought Stoffer's lasagna. Yea, didn't read the cooking instructions, stuck them in the freezer, got home around 6:30 and read two hours to cook if frozen. oops! Luckely no one cared. Placed Taboo and Baulderdash. Fun night.

Tonight I have to go home and pack, for tomorrow it's Vegas baby!! However, after the week I have had, getting up at 3am to go to Vegas isn't sounding appealing. I would rather sleep. I need to find my most comfortable work outfit to wear on the plane so I can sleep, yet look professional upon arrival. While there, I know I will be busy, but I am hoping to see Jasho. Man, if I don't get to see him, I will be crushed.

Oh, last night - Brad was texting me. Brad is one of the guys I was with on Tuesday. I told him about Arizona/Vegas and he asked if he could take me out when I get back. That was very sweet. OH!! Tuesday he wore his cowboy boots!!!! How great is that! Gotta love those country boys! So, I have something to look forward to when I get back, after I sleep!

Okay, I am off to get some work done. Hell, I won't be here for most of the week next week - gotta cover my ass.

Have a great weekend all!

We love you Hogan

Hogan (hogie) lived a very spoiled, loved life!

It was his time to move onto better places. He is now back with his best friend, Rudie.

Love you Buddy!

Count Down Begins

Today starts the countdown for Vegas. To tell you the truth, I am a bit nervous. My first trip to Vegas and it is for work...but not my current position. I am walking in to the unknown in "sin city" - yea that doesn't make me feel so good. But I am trying to be excited though. I am hoping to see Jasho...haven't seen him in 6 years!

Other than that - I have just been bumming around. Halloween, I went to game night at Jessica's house. We played loaded questions. Neat game - funny - kinda like Baulderdash. Next week it is at my place and we are playing Taboo. I have given myself a new name - The Godfather of Games. Jessica is One Half Jessica. Shana is Buckwheet. Jewel - she is Isle of Lesbos. Needless to say, we had a good beginning to game night.

Today Matty texted me - he is picking me up in a U-Haul. Yea, it is time. I think our plans will have to change. Instead of the two of us eloping, it will have to be him and Jen - I can't be a home wrecker in that one. I will let that slide ONLY IF we still continue with plans as is. U-Haul it to Vegas, they get married, hit up the drive thru's for Burger King and McDonald's for the reception. Honeymoon - well, we never did get that far. It was more about getting out, packing up and going. We didn't care where as long as we had Stephen Lynch playing in the background! MISS YOU MATTY!

It isn't quite 5 o'clock game time yet - but I may have to start early to help get through the day. This is the longest Friday we have had in a long time.

Happy weekend All!
7 days til departure!

Compliment

During my show in October, I received one of the nicest compliments I could have ever received. A couple days ago, something triggered my memory. However, there is a story.

Couple months ago, I was picked up for a “date” and was wearing my typical attire since we had hung out a couple times, I didn’t think I had to get all girlied up. He saw me in my jeans and tee and made a comment: “I guess we can go somewhere were that attire is appropriate.” That comment mixed with another informing me that I am not the girl guys date, I am the girl that guys go to the bar with, grab a beer and hang out.

If that is who I am, okay. I am not going to try to dress in fashionable clothing at all times to attract people – that isn’t who I am. Jeans and a sweatshirt are me. If you don’t like it, that is your problem.

Back to my point. I was at my show in October, and the guys wanted to grab a beer at the end of one of our days. “The guys” are the guys I see at every event we put on. However, they are in jeans and polo’s and I am in a suit. There was no doubt that I was going to meet up with them, but of course I had to change into “my” clothes. Since I know these guys pretty well, I didn’t feel the need to put on fashionable attire, I went comfortable. As I was sitting at a hotel bar area with them, one of the newer guys from the group made a comment on my attire. “Kel, you look good in your suit, and you look good dressed down. That is good thing to have.”

I thought that was the nicest thing someone could have told me. He isn’t a guy I date, he is a friend. And for that, I am thankful. It is nice to have people that make you smile when others try to tell you what is wrong with you.

Thanks to my favorite light bulb man!!!

Stood Up...Again

Emily has been one of my good friends for a long time. We met in 3^rd grade – it is safe to say we know each other well. Now that we don’t live close to each other, we are lucky to see each other once a year. For a while now, she has been telling me that she is coming to see me this coming weekend.

When I still lived in Rochester, Em would call and we would make plans for that evening, then she would never show. That was Em. It got tiring, so I rarely made plans with her, but when I did, she followed through since it had been a while.

So here I am, excited that I was going to see one of my good friends – and actually have time to talk. However, she hasn’t returned a single call, text, or email of mine is 16 days. If something came up and she couldn’t come, fine, I understand – just freakin’ tell me. Don’t be so disrespectful. Yesterday, I just went ahead and decided I am making plans – I am not waiting for her to call back and tell me she is or is not coming. I would rather her be honest with me than just not take my tries at contacting her. Friends don’t do that.

That is my story – Em stood my up once again. This time was the last time. I would like to be treated the way I treat others. Well I am off – work to be done, so I best start staring at it until I start doing it.

HAPPY 29th BIRTHDAY KYLE!

This is my much older brother, and today is his "special day", his birthday. Since I am unable to be there, I decided to do a little post just for him on his day! Luv ya old guy!



Kyle, back in his sylish days! How cute is he?! (haha) HEY K, LOOKIN' GOOD!!



Oh, there he goes again - tanning like lobster. Although this year he was all for the sunscreen. Guess he was tired of the lobster look!



SAY CHEESE!
This is one of my favorite pictures of Kyle - only because this behavior at the dinner table on Easter is frowned upon, and we just don't understand why. I mean, seriously, all he did was smile for a picture I was taking! What's the harm in that? So what if his mouth just so happened to be full of food - not our fault!




Kyle Cooking.
What's wrong with this picture - OH I don't know, maybe the fact he isn't looking at what he is cooking, and he looks like he is druged. Other than that, great shot K!



Stylz, Beaver, Blue - a.k.a. - The Three Musketeers!
This is, and will always be, one of my favorite shots. The guys! They are great friends, and to me, my great friends also. (I just hope they see me the same way - if not, I know people!)



Indy 500
Our first trip to the INDY 500!! Kyle and Mom, how cute!



We take great shots!
Kyle and I decided to pose and take our own Christmas shot! How did we do? Personally, I think it is art! Pure art!



Family at Christmas 2004
Ahhh, ending it on a nice shot. Christmas at Kyle and Willy's. HEY WILLY - YOU FORGOT TO SMILE! Mom and Dad - put the drinks down! We don't need to be showing the world you drink at 9 in the morning! K - you look young there, no signs of wrinkles yet. How are you lookin' now that you are OLDER? Are your bones holding up? Hair turning grey? Is that belly getting bigger? Do we need to start looking in to glasses and bell tones? And Kyle, as you get older, people understand that you just can't hold it anymore. So as your gift, I am sending you a box of depends. I figured that was the sweetest gift I could send. Shows I am understanding, companionate, and willing to help a brother out. Don't worry, I won't tell anyone you are using them - it will be our little secret!

Well with that said - you look good big guy! (suck in the gut a little...there ya go!)
Miss you!
Your much younger, adorable, lil' sis

Bennjin

Tomorrow is Friday! Thank goodness. I have a list of things to do at work, and can’t get motivated. It is driving me nuts, but all in the same, I am okay with it. I have spent the past couple days working on a budget. Trying to show how much we are spending vs. how much we could/should be spending. By 4:00 I am beat.

It has been a good week outside of work. My friend, Bennjin, was in town from Nashville, a friend I haven’t seen in five years. Catching up with him was great! I met some of his co-workers and watch the football game Monday then the baseball game Tuesday. It was a great start to the week, even though I didn’t get home until 2 those nights.

Bennjin and I met at our previous jobs, he at CMT and I at Entercom Rochester. For some reason we have always kept in touch. It is strange; you meet someone one night and see each other here and there over a five hour period. You meet again at a second event, see each other here and there over, yet again, another five hour period – decide to swap contact information – and here we are five years later, still friends. Why is it that this works when one of the girls I worked with and was close with, her and I don’t keep in touch? Well, why this happened, I don’t know – but it has been fun. We exchanged pictures we each had taken during those rare occasions our paths met – and that alone was a blast. I will have to post some, after I get someone to scan them for me. Anywho, it was great to see an old friend and meet some of his associates. Late nights early in the week makes for a good countdown for weekend!

Now I am just left with decision making, and finishing up some projects on my place incase things change. Oh, I do have one comment…I am traveling to the Vegas area and informed an old friend who presides in that area, in hope to grab a beer and catch up. I haven’t heard from him, and as pathetic as this may be, it saddens me. He was one of my closest friends in High School and College (from a far). Well – I am off to make dinner.

Cheerleader

I am glad that people talk to me, don’t get me wrong, but I am tired of being the cheerleader. Each day it is difficult to plaster on that smile and say everything is great. People I work with are down and look to me to make them smile. They don’t know that I am down too. I drive to work and want to cry because I know that I am sitting there listening to their sorrows when I just want to sit in my little chair in my little corner. But that is work, and all I can do is make it through.

On a side note, cupid is still playing cupid. Meaning, Brad is supposedly calling me soon. I met Brad at our security event in Baltimore last week. Cupid was with Brad and thought it would be “fun” to hook us up. If you met me at a show, you would know very quickly that that wouldn’t be possible. I basically stay in work mode. Apparently I have lost this battle and now Brad will be contacting me. He seems like a very intelligent, fun guy – but when it comes to dating, I am not good at it. So this shall be interesting.

Other than that, all is the same. Oh – Steph brought me a WWJD bracelet today. That made me smile. I used to wear one all the time – then mine broke. Well, we got talking; I saw hers and I reminisced. Now I have one again! It’s the small things that make me smile.

Have a good week all!

It's Finally Friday!

Good Morning Everyone! Home wise, it has been a productive week. It is amazing how I let my place go before a show. Yesterday a co-worker and I, who does a similar job, were talking about how messy we let our places get, at least I know I am not the only one. If you know me, this is not a typical thing, I like my place neat. There is something nice about coming home to a clean place, especially after travel, whether it is a week or a long weekend. This time I have had a little incentive, my friend is coming tomorrow, and I am beyond excited. I don't have many girl friends, and she is defiantly one of my closest - as should be, she is my cousin. :) Today I got up and hung my toilet paper hanger - we only finished the remodel in the bathroom, how long ago? I figured it was about time I put that up!! Cleaned the bedrooms, and made the guest bed. That leaves the finishing cleaning touches for tonight, oh, that and RELAX!

Kyle we have to catch up. I sent you a text last Friday letting you know. It caught me off guard, so I am taking my time, which thank God I have. If the position were located here, this wouldn't be so difficult. Where I currently work, moral is terribly low. It makes things difficult. Love my job, I really really do - it isn't what I do, it is the atmosphere. Tough decision. I remember taking the job with Wegmans; I knew it was what I wanted. Then I left my closest friends. I left two of the big rocks in my life, Kyle and Sean. Oh, and you can't forget family - they are always good for a laugh, and who doesn't enjoy that. However, if I ever left the DC area, Bart would go with me, and then there is mom and dad. It was just a strange coincidence that we both moved to the same area - and I know they are always right there. DC isn't difficult to leave; however, I would like to enjoy the area I venture to next. I just thank my parents for bringing up my brother and I with the courage to take what is given and make the best of it. Not be afraid to pack up and go places, for it can being much happiness, although with every step comes a challenge. Even though things may scare me a bit - I still say "bring it" come challenge time!

My fellow Rochesterians - love ya lots and I miss you all! Sean and Christine - I will call you soon. Hope all is well. Kyle, lets keep playing phone tag until we reach one another. Matty - get Jen, the U-Haul, and I will be the best man!

Odds 'n' Ends

First - I love the video of Sean being a whiney drunk. It makes him look so attractive! Glad to see you are having fun Christine!

I went to October Fest in North Carolina this past weekend!! Man, that what the best time, all that beer for me to taste. Although it was sad to see Purdue lose, even though it was to Notre Dame. I did meet someone that was married at St. Thomas on campus. When I was at Purdue, I always thought that would be the best place to be married. Very simple. Anywho, I tried lots of beers and was very happy. After the October Fest we went to Darron's apt for the after party. Dawn, my girl Dawn went from beer to wine to vodka. Needless to say, she was a happy camper. Jim and I stuck with beer. Our night ended around 11, which isn't bad for starting at 2. Sunday, Jim went and got Dawn and I breakfast. I couldn't believe he went and go us food - that was too sweet! And around 1 I began to truck it home. Great weekend!

This coming weekend, I am having company! Jessy is coming. So I am trying to plan a fun weekend. Oh, and get ready for a show. She leaves on Monday late afternoon and I leave Tuesday morning for a show. Can't complain - it will be fun!

Arizona - what are everyone's thoughts of Arizona?

Scarf/Sheets

While at the show in NYC, I was given a beautiful silk scarf from one of our China companies for assisting with Visa's and the Chinese Embassy information. Today I am wearing the scarf, it is beautiful, how could I not wear it. Anywho, now the office is wondering who I got a hickie from. Apparently, another co-worker only wears a scarf when her boyfriend gives her hickies. FUNNY PEOPLE!

On a great side note, I was at Target the other week and I came accross sock puppet monkey jersey sheets. Oh yea, my new fav sheet!! Very comfortable. But you all wouldn't know, and won't know - cos I am not sharing my bed with anyone!!! Yea! How do you like me now?

Okay, I am off to get ready to get out of here. I work with a bunch of two year olds and it is getting tiring.

Wegmans

I went to PA this past weekend to hang out with a Wegmans friend. I don't have the opportunity to see him that often since, he lives a drive away and with our different schedules, it is difficult. But it was time for my DJ fix. He was one of the first people I met when I started at Wegmans in Dulles, and he was the first person I supposedly slept with. Gotta love the rumors! Man, you talk to one person in that place, and every one has you sleeping with that person. The only time that really bothered me is when stuff when around about my married friends and my boss. Other than that, it's just pillow talk talkin!

Any who, DJ and I went to a couple different places and ended up at a bar with an upstairs karaoke bar! That is where we stayed. We had a blast making fun of people singing and singing along. Although, it didn't take much to get us laughing, we were both tired. However, this was the same night the Michigan State vs. Notre Dame Game was on and if you know me, you know I had a blast causing trouble with all the Notre Dame people in the bar!! After all, it isn't my fault that they had to hear the truth about Notre Dame sucking from me. :) I am an angel! DJ is great; he just lets me have my fun, sits back and laughs. I let Dj do the drinking; he needed a good night out. At about 1:30 I took him home and tucked him into bed, and then I hit the couch. Oh, and while he is a little inebriated, I got him to agree to be my new back up date. This way, when I need a date for a function, and I don't have one, he will go with me. Since I lost my back up to a new "girlfriend", I needed to find a new one.

Any who, I best get to work. Accounting issues just arose, and I need to start looking into how to fix it! The week I need to make Cini Chili!! I am craving it.

Oh, the good food i had

Today I am a bit more awake, so I have been catching up on my blog reading. Sounds like everyone is doing well. I am trying to get back into the slower work pace, and I just have to say, I am liking it. Although this morning, my alarm was blaring, tv was on - but what woke me up was a text message coming from Steph asking me if she could wear kakhi's to work today. This text came at 8:20. I am supposed to be at work by 9. So today, sorry - shower will come later!!

I am sitting here, reflecting on the food I ate while in NYC. Saturday night I arrived at the hotel around 9, due to missing my flight for being at the wrong airport. That called for room service, french onion soup and a side of sauteed mushrooms! Yummy! Sunday I hit up Starbucks for coffee, man that place is expensive. For lunch I had a medium pizza - can't beat the NYC pizza. Dinner, five of us went to Little Italy for the festival and ate at Novella. That was delicious! Monday, the guys from the night before brought me breakfast, which was extremely nice of them. They know at the shows I don't really get to eat - so they bring me bananas and muffins that I can shove in my mouth here and there. Dinner about 20 of us went to Cafe Un, Dux, Tous - FANTASTIC FOOD. As an appetizer I ordered onion soup, entree - filet with peppercorn sause, desert - doubledecker chocolate cake. I left a happy camper. Tuesday I didn't eat that well - no time. Wednesday the guys brought me food in the morning again, since they didn't see me eat the day before, which was nice of them. Then before we all got on the plane to head home, there is a great pizza place at LGA - we hit that up and I scarfed since I had barely eaten for two days. Ahh, the good times.

Okay, I think I have put off listening to my voicemail long enough. I best get my butt in gear before our debriefing of the show.

NEXT

I am back in the office today, the show is over. Last night and today we, those who were at the show, are a bit gitty. However, I am glad it is over. Show went well. We had about 70 cadets there to help, which is always a plus. Who doesn't enjoy men in uniform! Steph and I were trying to hook each other up - granted I am way to old for any of them. But we both got stuck going to dinner with two of them. Steph and I had a blast feeding off eachother, the two guys, I don't think they has as much fun!

Today, I have done NOTHING! I arrived to work around noon and I opened my email. Oh, wait, i did check one of them. But that is about it.

Alright - off to get ready to leave. Though day - but tomorrow starts prep for the next show.

two down - two to go!

Even though this week is a 5 day work week, for me it is really four. By the time I leave work on Thursday, I have to have everything prepared for the show. Friday morning I will do box inventory and all boxes are getting picked up for shipment at noon. That makes noon on Friday party time for me! In the meantime, it is 14 hour work days, at least. It is safe to say, I am ready for Friday. Although, if you saw my desk, you wouldn't think a show is coming up! Now that makes me happy! If you saw me, oh you would know! I look like crap.

Kyle - Congrats!! I am very happy for you. Wish I was there to buy you a beer or two. :) You will have to tell me how today went for ya, and I can’t wait to hear how Monday goes!!!

Sean & Christine - I hope you are doing well! Send more pictures of your place. I am trying to get my boss to do a show in CA, but i don't think that will fly any time soon. All his "buddies" are in NYC. How does P-Nut like being back in CA?

Dan - I like you blog, you have done a nice job. Thank you for your advice, I truly appreciate it. Sounds like you are still plugging on your house. And the duct tape wallet?! Gotta love duct tape. Sometime we will have to have a chili cook-off; fall is the perfect season for good Cini chili!

Okay, back to work. I am hoping to head home soon! My bed is calling, I can hear it.

Another weekend!

The Finished picture from last weekend of opening up and painting the kitchen. I never posted a final picture. It made for a very busy weekend, but I am glad that I pushed hard to get it done.

The larger opening is so nice. Now, when I am making dinner, I can still see the TV or watch the kids playing out side and scaring Bart! (that is actually the most fun!)

This weekend I am trying to be as productive, however, it isn't working as well. Yesterday I slept most of the day to get ride of a headache. It didn't go away until about 9 last night. I did hit up Barnes and Nobles and got five books. Yes, five. If you know me well, that is odd! Three books on work (How to Balance Work and Life, 135 Tips on Writing Successfully, and The Idiot's Guide to Meeting & Event Planning) I began reading the The Idiot's Guide to Meeting & Event Planning, it gives many good tips which some I do and some I don't. It also gives plenty of good websites to visit.

While I was in the management sections, I saw a book How to work for an Idiot which I thought was pretty funny. I began to read it, and found it wasn't the right book for me. Is there a book about how to work for a guy who thinks it is his way or the highway, he is always right, and doesn't listen to a word/suggestion you say? If there is, please let me know. I refuse to read the books about climbing the corporate ladder in heels. That did make me realize that every person, that I know of, that held my position in the past has been a female. I would like to see my boss work with a guy in my position, and I would like to see how a man handles my boss. My boss seems to be the person who thinks he can win you over by sweet talking you. "Oh, everyone loves you, loves the job you do..." bla bla bla. I don't think he has learned that I know that is all crap! Yes, I am liked at work, but don't give me that crap. Any who, I am trying to keep learning about my position - since I am not learning at work. I don't want what I have learned in the past to be lost. There will be a day when I want to start interviewing again, and I need to be on top of my game. As you can see above, Bart works hard with me!

Well I am off to head back to Barnes and Nobles, grab a coffee, the Sunday paper, and a resume and cover letter book and keep my information up to date. Any suggestions would be of great help. I am not one that likes to write about myself in that manner.

Body - Owies!

Yesterday, when I woke up I had a decision to make...work on actual work. Or take my work frustrations out while working on my place. Since Jessy comes in about a month and I have a show in between that, which causes me to lost about 2-3 weekends to work on my place I decided to hit my place and hit it hard. Today - OWIES!

I tore up the carpet, pulled staples and strubbed the floor (on my hands and knees) with pine sol. I would rather have wooden floors that are clean - that don't look so purtty, than that nasty carpet!

Did the same in my bed room!

Oh, and Dad and I cut the whole for a new, larger window leading to the kitchen. Today we are framing it and the base will be a bar area. Then tomorrow or tonight, I am going to paint the kitchen a daker shade of blue than what you see in the living and dining rooms! Oh - all the dumpster runs are done as well. So I only looked white trash for a couple hours. Very disappointing I know!!


Bart, he was beat after a long day of work. We started at 7:30 and ended at 7 last night. Good thing he had his blankie to cuddle with!

Today - hit up home depot and keep going. Any one up to giving me a message? Man, I could really go for one!

She's so Vain!

She is coming! My friend from ROCHESTER is comeing to see ME. Okay, so you might be thinking I am sounding a little vain right now. However, let me explain. I have not had a friend from Rochester come to see me since I have moved here two and a half years ago. I was shopping with my friend yesterday when Jessy called to tell me that I better get my ass out of bed to pick her up at 8:30 in the morning! Let me tell you a little about,my girl, Jessy:

I have know Jessy since I can remember. Did I mention we are cousins?! We have done the girlie sleep overs watching "Girls Just Want To Have Fun" and had a cocktail while having our venting chats. When it comes to Jessy, she won't judge me, nor I her. We have mad plenty of mistakes in our life - and we still love eachother (sucks being family doesn't it jess!!). When it comes to dating - I have to say we run a similar path. Mr. Right is still in no sight - either that or God just hasn't decided he should smack us in the face to say Mr. Right has been standing in front of us all our lives. However, we have fun laughing over our horrible dates and the "good" decisions we made back then! There is one story that is my favorite. If our entire fam didn't already know - I wouldn't share - sorry Jess:

Jessy and I were in jr. high when we where at a family gathering that was being held at her place. After dinner, it was jess and my job to serve the sherbert. We are preparing all the dishing when she informed me she had to pee. Convenient timing, don't ya think?! Well I thought she didn't have to go all that bad, so I started saying "think waterfalls, think watersfalls" and i proceeded to turn the water on. We got laughing soooooo hard, and that didn't help her situation. Well, one thing lead to another and next thing you know we are having to explain why jessy changed her paints. That darn sherbert! All over her pants! (haha)

Well anywho, Jess and I go way back, and she is coming to see ME! She is coming to see where I live, meet my friends (wait, I gotta find some!) and see ME! Thanks jess. I will be happy to pick you up at the airport with a nice hot cup of java for ya, a smile and a hug. So no, I am not vain - just extremely happy that my friend is coming.

black

Yesterday started off great, and ended well...needing advise. I came to work wearing a black dress that is very comfortable. I was in the mood for comfort seeing that work is getting to that super stressful stage before a show. I walked to my desk and shortly after Chrystal came to see me. Chrystal is our receptionist and one of my friends here - she cracks me up! Anywho, she told me that she liked my underwear. I was a bit confused, as she proceeded to tell me that she could see my black underwear through my black dress. GREAT! Thank goodness I have a fleese at my desk that covers my ass when I wear it. At lunch time, I made a pit stop home and put a slip on. I hate slips - but hey, my ass was no longer visable!

As the day proceeded, I needed a bit of good advice, and my father is good, especially when it comes to work. I felt a bit screwed over and dad talked me through it. Thanks dad! After that, the parents and I hit up Hard Times Cafe for some wings and chili (i got the usual three way and they like the four way). Good way to end a Wednesday!

Well, I am off to my bosses office - once again. Now I just need to put the smile on my face and be that cheery person he likes and proceed with my day!

Have a good one all. But I am going to leave you with something I read by Einstein that I liked:
"The tragedy of this world is that no one is happy, whether stuck in a time of pain or of joy. The tragedy of this world is that everyone is alone. For a life in the past connot be shared with the present. Each person who gets stuck in time gets stuck alone." - Einstein's Dreams

Happy Hump Day!

This week is going slow, but at the same time it is going fast. Every morning I have been waking up thinking it is Thursday or Friday, then come to the realization it is Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. I am looking forward to the weekend.

Last night I spend a couple hours working out the details for the show directory and the press room for next months show. Getting those details working out made me feel a bit better coming into work. However, I still have a long list of things to do. It keeps me busy that is for sure.

On my drive to work, I caught up with my mom for coffee talk. It is our thing we do on our drives to the office. She was telling me that a mutual friend was asking how I was doing. Mom informed her I was stressed, since I have our largest show in a month. Then our friend replied back - at least she has a job that is keeping her busy and she isn't doing the same thing day after day after day. This got me thinking. Yes, I do have a job that keeps me on my toes, and I don't have much down time. And yes the other woman's daughter has a job that is very redundant. When I get home from work - I am ready to crash and go to bed because I am exhausted from my day. My friend, she has the opportunity to go out with friends. She may be envious of my job, but in the same field, I am envious of her because she is living the social life that I miss more than anything. My social life is going home to Bart and working while he sleeps next to me. We are given an option, I went for the job that keeps me very busy; my friend went for the job where she can still have then busy life outside of work. We all have to do what is right for us, and in the middle, if we are not happy - we have the opportunity to still switch it up!

Alright - off to the day of work.

Chin-up, keep smiling, and remember - people make the job, the job doesn't make the job.

Lions and Tigers and Bears - Oh My

Work is beginning to get burry. I have so many projects sitting on my desk. Our Maritime show is quickly approaching, and I feel like I am lost on the madness. Between making sure all the exhibitors, barters, and speakers have all the correct information and then making sure I have everything in order that I need and my boss needs – I am just lost in it all. The hours I am putting in is killing me. In the beginning I thought I was doing so good, my organization was perfect, and I had everything under control. Now I have deadlines to meet, the show directory to design and everything needs to be done asap. Anywho, I am tired.

My plans:
Get as much done until 6:00
6:00 – go home and eat dinner
7:00 - ?? work from home
?? – 6am sleep
repeat

This will be my routine until show time. Hopefully my 3 pages of things to do will be better by Monday. I would love to feel like I am on top of it again. Either that or not be tired. You pick.

Oh – and this that when you ask a guy to do something, he automatically thinks you are interested in him? Why can't he think it is a friend thing? I never did get that.

Yet another Sunday

This past week was a long one. It is not fun going back to work after a week off. I am in above my head with things to do. It is that time again, about a month before the show - and everything is due.

Friday night was the Dixie Chicks concert - lets just say, I am glad I didn't pay for the tickets. But I had fun non the less. The opening band only had one good song - My name in Batman, but you can call me Bob. That was great. There other songs, not so much. The group that was in the suite made the entire evening a blast. We had to turn the event into something fun - and we did it!

Yesterday I slept till 1. I haven't done that, in I don't know the last time I slept that late. I needed it - I was exhausted from the week. But that meant that I got nothing done yesterday. Today, however, I was up nice a early, as usual, and I am putting my rooms back together - finally. My spare bedroom is a pig pen right now. I can't stand it anymore. I went to Target to get the felt pads for under my furniture, so my newly refinished floor doesn't get scrached and I have my work cut out for me. It will look good when it is done - so that is well worth it.

I will post a pic later so you may see my finished floors! Very exciting - i know. (it is to me though!)

Family Vacation 2006

It is safe to say, while on vacation, we ate extremely well. Tyipically, at Lake George, we have dinner competitions - see who can make the best dinner. This year, we changed things up a bit. We had teams of two, each person having two nights, and the nights were theme nights.

Nights as followed:
Monday - Italian - Kyle and Mom (Salmon Pasta)
Tuesday - Adirondack - Dad and myself (Oscar's Port Roast topped on a veggie filled salad)
Wednesday - Rochester - Mom and myself (Garbage Plates)
Saturday - Southern - Kyle and Dad (Oscar's ribs, chicken - both topped with Crazy Jerry's hot sauce - roasted corn, and garlic smashed taters)

In the above picture, for the Rochester meal, Mom and I made the infamous garbage plate with Bill Gray's hot sauce. Kyle brought the hot sauce, since we all know Maryland doesn't have Bill Grays! (Thanks Kyle)

Crazy Jerry's hot sauce - this is a must have. Six of us tried and and six of us absolutly loved it!!



This is the family, plus Aunt Mary and Uncle Steve enjoying our last dinner in the Adirondacks, which happened to be Southern night. I don't think we had any food left over!



For Adirondack night, dad and I decided to make seafood stuffed mushrooms as the appetizer. These will definatly be created again! We used ritz crackers, green onions, shrimp, and chopped stems of the mushrooms on top for decoration.

It was a fabulous week, and I am sorry it is over. Now I am back to work wishing I was back on the beach starring off into the mountains thinking about nothing! Sunday began the count down for next year. Time to start the planning of the meals, will it be themes and teams again? Or will it go back to the competition where everyone is on their own?? All I can say, thanks to that hat from which we drew the names for teams this year - for it didn't put Kyle and I together!

two days and counting!

Yesterday, a co-worked gave me tickets to attend a function at the Kennedy Center. It is actually a fundraiser, and the seats are $150 per seat or sold through sponsorships. However, his wife's company is the organizer, so he was given some tickets to give out. He gave me two tickets, so me and a date could attend. That is great, it should be a great night, and I am thrilled my co-worker asked me to go. The major question - who will go with me? I would ask Tim, but he just attended a concert with me, and it will give him the wrong idea if I ask him to attend this with me. Mike is having back surgery two weeks before, so he is out. Ryan, he wouldn't act appropriatly, so he is out. Ted is never in town. I don't have anyone to go. Any suggestions? I have until August 8th to come up with someone, but they at least need to have manners, since this is a function that we need to act our age, but it should be fun!

On the other hand, things are good. Two and half more days until VACATION!! Not that I'm counting down or anything! Last night was nice, my parents got me a TV stand for my birthday and we put that together as we put my furniture back in the living and dining rooms. My place looks beautiful with the hardwood floors. It is cozy and amazing. I would like to get some area rugs, but right now, I don't want to cover up the hardwoods. Sooo pretty!!

Well I am off to finish my wonderful lunch. Have a good wednesday!

digging my way out

This week is crazy busy. The week before vacation. I can't wait to be sitting on a beach and swimming all next week, but the week before and the week after vacation always seems to suck. Any time you leave the office for a bit and return sucks. This is when I truely miss my old job. All well.

Tonight Bart and I get to move back home. Over the weekend, we finished the living and dining room floors. They are stained and polyed, and they look beautiful!! So tonight is the fun part, putting the rooms together and sleeping in my bed! I will post pics tonight if I am not too tired.

Okay, sorry for the short post - work to be done.

Actions and Consequences

It's funny. Life is odd. Why do people do certain things? What puts the ideas in their heads? The past few days, I have been wondering this. I have always taken pride in where I work, and what I have done for those companies. Recently, it was brought to my attention that a place I worked is in trouble on the charges of payola. This saddened me. I just hope the person/people that were part of this are accepting the responsibilties that go along with an offense like that. Also a fellow co-worker just came back from a work trip and he actually told me that he didn't tell anyone what company he was with, and told people he forgot his business cards at home. To make it worse, when he was asked what he did, he used his past job. Why was he so ashamed to say who he was with? It will be funny to see the outcome of this, especially with the position he holds here.

We all make mistakes, and big ones sometimes, it's life. However, it is all about how we handle our mistakes. When we make mistakes, the only right thing to do is live up to it. The outcome is much easier if you live up to it rather than hiding it until found. This i have learned. Sadly, I tell my boss when I make mistakes before he finds them (if I catch it first) just because I feel so bad. I would rather turn myself in than someone else do it for me. If you need help, ask for it. If you are not able to be honest with who you are, you might want to think twice. Are you becoming the person you want to be? If not - take charge. We all have been granted to opportunity to be who we want. Make you the person you are proud of. I may not have lead the best life, but I am getting there. I just hope to keep following my goals and plans, and let them change in ways they should.

SOCCER HELP NEEDED

I have played co-ed soccer before, but not co-ed indoor soccer and I haven't played for 5-6 years. Any assistance one can give me would be greatly appreciated. I need help and reading the instructions - yea not helpful.

Tired Monday

My weekend didn't exactly go as planned. I was out late with a friend catching up and slept till 9:30 Saturday morning. Since I had so much to do, I was hoping to be on the metro by this time. My fun excursion to view the monuments from the Old Post Office and go to the newly renovated American Art Museum is on a rain delay. Instead, my Saturday was spent finishing moving the furniture that didn't absolutely require two people into the spare bedroom or my bedroom and finishing the prep work for sanding. That took me most of the day. I got all the staples out and scrubbed the floor real good a couple times. Now that I am typing this out, it doesn't sound like I did all that much. However, I ended my day with a hot dog cook out and my favorite Grandma Brown's baked beans! This reminds me, I need to hit up Wegmans, and re-stock up on some of that good Rochester food!

Saturday night I called my dad in hope that he would be up for helping me sand the living room and dining room floors. Slowly, I moved in for the kill, did the "what are you having for dinner?", "How was your day..." and then he said it! "Want to sand tomorrow?" I about jumped for joy, but I calmly said, "yea, we could, you want to?" I was thrilled - I was staying on schedule!

Sunday I was up and ready to be at the store by 9. Called dad and he was still eating breakfast. HELLO! WHO HAS TIME FOR BREAKFAST WHEN WE HAVE FLOORS TO SAND? Okay, my dumb ass should have eaten something, I was starving come 10:30 and he was not. We headed off to Lowe’s to rent the sander and pick up the supplies. Now, this is when my great mood when down the drain. Lowe’s employees are morons. I am sorry. I was a newby working in a hardware store once - but you know what, I asked questions and learned so I would have the knowledgeable answers. Apparently, that is overrated now-a-days. I was looking for a ½ gallon of wood filler – since we are doing basically all the rooms in my place. All I could find was the $8 pint of Minwax wood fill. Zar makes a ½ gallon tub for that amount. So I ask the associate where there wood filler is located – since the store is a complete, disorganized mess. My little lazy associate had NO CLUE what I was talking about. I asked if there was anyone that would know – he didn’t know, nor did he care to ask. It just went down hill from there.

Any who, we get back to my place, move the couch and the TV – the two things I could not do by myself, and the day began. It took five hours to sand, but we did it. We took turns sitting on the sander, while the other sanded. The extra weight was needed. Yes, it did make it more difficult for the person sanding, especially with the strong right pull the sander had…but it is now down, and my body is a weeee bit sore. Good hard work, on a good day, can’t beat that!

Now, I am back to work…stain tonight? We shall see if I am in shape for it. I might have to take a night off.

Weekend Plans

I am beginning to make my weekend plans. Who am I kidding, I have been thinking about weekend since Monday! Every day this week, it has felt like Friday. And today, it is actually Friday, finally.

This weekend I would like to have a bit of fun. As suggested by Dan, a fellow blogger, I am going to hit up the Old Post Office to get a good view of the monuments, and on my out grab some ice cream on the 1st floor at Ben & Jerry's! That will make my walk more enjoyable as I head over to the American Art Museum. I haven't gone on lineto the American Art Museum web site; I don't want to spoil my fun. There is something about walking in and see everything for the first time. You just can't pass that moment up! After the art museum I am considering taking in an Einstein planetarium visit. It's been over a year since I have gone to see the stars. Either that or I can find a nice park at night and lay on the grass until I am happy with how many constellations I have found. Either way, I am happy.

Other than my DC fix, I am working on my floors. They are coming along nice. Last night I was a bit lazy, I only took the staples out of the dining room floor. So I have yet to do the living room, and then disinfect the floor. That will probably be in store for tonight. I could go out and try to meet people, but you know that won't happen.

I am off to continue with my daily fun at work. Have a good weekend!

Did someone say carpet?

The carpet is almost all out - just need to move the TV. I wanted to get some pictures though.


All the nasty carpet and padding is piled on my patio. Once again, I was looking white trash!


Carpet is out! Moving the tv was easier than I though, I was able to slide it. To lift that stupid tv you need two strong people, me alone, I would kill myself. (Kyle, no, I am going to see if the tv would kill me. You would miss you little sister!)


DONE! I just finished taking all that gross carpet to the dumpster. I no longer look like white trash. Although, no one was here to offer me a beer when I needed one. YES NEEDED!! And yes, I took a shower! It wasn't my shower month, but I figured I could break my shower schedule just once. After shower - beer!

All I have to do is finish getting the staples out. I did the hallway last night, so I have the living room and dining room left. I have to say it has been a fun project. I have to figure out what to do with all my furniture while the floor gets sanded, stained, and sealed. But I can think about that later! I will just be glad when I have the staples out and the floor disinfected. It is moving along very well.

Well I best go get ready for work.

subfloor check

I get home last night a little after 7 and this is when my butt decides to finally rip up a piece of carpet in a corner to check out the subfloor. At 7:30 I was calling my father to tell him there is the old school 8” block hardwood flooring under the horribly stained carpet! I was thrilled. Had I known this, the carpet would have been ripped up before I moved all my crap in last year. Dad brought over a wheel barrel as I began to rip that carpet up. Last night we got the dining room, entrance to my place (which I part of the living room), and the hallway ripped up. That means tack stripping too. I have stepped on my fair share of tack stripping – and didn’t feel like repeating that or getting a tetanus shot (which I am over due for – funny how these projects make you remember those things!!). Tonight, I am going to move all my furniture in my living room and get the rest of the carpet up. Then I will only have carpet in the two bedrooms.

The floor is in good shape. I will have to rent an orbital sander and re-stain/seal it. So tonight – finish ripping up carpet, get all the staples out of the floor, and then clean it with ammonia (a couple times!). As to why they used so many staples with the padding, I don’t know – nor do I care, because, I am making it look pretty again!! I was thrilled to see the flooring. Some spots will need repair, and since they don’t make the floor anymore, I might carpet one or both bedrooms to use some of the flooring to repair the hallway. I will take pictures and post tonight. Got to have the before and after shots!!!

My goal is to have it ready to sand by Sunday. Do repairs on Saturday – sand Sunday. Then stain a couple nights next week, and keep Bart at the parent’s house. I don’t want paw prints on my floor like I have them on my window sills. Cute cat.

Okay – work here I come. I hope everyone has a good day. Oh, and if you feel like lifting furniture or being a staple taker outer with me, I will buy the beer and food!

Happy 4th of July!!

Today is a great day, and I hope everyone enjoys it!

Yesterday at work I think I did a total of 15 minutes worth of work. No offices were open, at least not the places I interact with. I was okay with this though. It gave me time to catch up with people were at work. I talked to Adam for a while. Adam is a Michigan fan, and I had sent him a bunch of Purdue pictures! We bantered for a bit, then I went back to the paperclip war I am having with Matthew. It has been going on now for about three weeks, and it is just beginning. It makes the day fun. At noon, our COO came around informing us all that our CEO was letting us out at 2:30. I was in shock. We never get out that early.

At 2:30 I was out the door! I came home and went to the pool, it was very hot. Since I am not a huge pool fan, I lasted maybe, maybe 40 minutes. After that I came home to do what I had planned on doing, bake, toilet, floor. Okay, so I did one of those. I baked the zucchini bread. Then I got on the computer and didn't get off until 8:30. By that point I was starving and wanted dinner. After dinner I wasn't in the mood to really do anything - I ate too much, so I watched Top Gun. Jessica called and invited me to a gathering a someones house, but I didn't feel like getting all "cute" to have a couple beers. So that was that.

This morning I was going to go running or find where the O&D trail is in MD or another trail and blade for a while. I haven't bladed in over a year. :( After that, I need to hit the toilet and the floor. Then get ready to food!!! Very important that i prep myself for eating! Steak, hot dogs (Zweigles of course!), deviled eggs, taters, veggies on the grill, and ice cream sundae's! I best go have some food now to get me started for the day!

Have a great 4th! Be safe!

Pool

My weekend was a good one. Saturday I took Bart over to my parents so he could play, and also because I told my Dad I would help him put up a ceiling fan and a rail on their neighbor’s patio. Their neighbor, Bernice, is the sweetest lady. She could be my grandmother. She tries to keep on top of the times, and she always has a good understanding of what is happening on their street. I love her to pieces!! Anywho, so dad and I were did some work on her place – which involved going to Lowes, and that is always a good time!

Sunday I went to Little Havana’s in Baltimore for brunch. My cheesy-burger was most excellent!! And the mamosa’s, very good! While were eating, we decided it was a must to go to the pool. I have never been to the pool, and I have lived where I live for a little over a year. I am not a big pool person. Since I grew up on a boat I prefer a lake. There is nothing better then jumping off a sailboat in the summer. However, that is not possible, so pool it is. It was very refreshing on a hot day. We were only by the pool for an hour since it a thunderstorm came. We all got changed and got food (Cheesecake factory!) then hit up a movie. We went to go see “The Devil Wears Prada” and it was cute. I thought it would be more of a comedy, it had some funny lines, but it was more of a cute drama (if there is such a thing as a cute drama). It was a long day, and we were all exhausted, but all in all, we didn’t do anything but eat and sit on our butts.

Tonight, I am making zucchini bread, and fixing the leak in the tank of my toilet. Hopefully I just have to tighten the bolt that attaches the tank to the bowl, but I’ll find out later. After that, I need to take a look at the sub floor in my living room. I want to tear up all the carpet…but I need to see what the base looks like. I am praying the sub floor is in good shape, unlike the bathroom. Tomorrow, relax and eat! I would like to go to Annapolis, but I have a picnic to be at. This weekend I will either go downtown to the mall and walk around or go to Annapolis. I would still like to go to the top of the Washington Monument.

Well I am off like a prom dress, as Matty says. Have a good day, and eat lots!

Happy Friday!

Good Morning! Happy Friday! What are everyone's plans for the weekend? I think I might do some work around my place, then maybe hit the pool. I keep saying, or thinking I am going to go to the pool, but then I never do. One, I feel bad leaving Bart, what can I say, I'm a sucker. He was along all last weekend, so maybe I will just hang out on the patio. Then maybe meet up with some friends for a beer somewhere in Arlington or out in Centreville. It will be a relazing weekend! And a great weekend for grilling!!

I can't believe tomorrow is July. Where has this year gone to? However, July is the one month I look forward to every year. The last week of July, my family goes to Lake George every year. Mom and Dad always ask my brother and I if we want to go somewhere else, but there is something about knowing that you are going to a beach that is usually quiet to read, swim, at at 2:00 start happy hour. You just know you will be relaxed when you are there...why change that. Yes, it would be neat to see a new place, don't get me wrong. I just like knowing that I will be relaxed! And this year, my brother will be there the whole week, and I haven't seen him since, what Thanksgiving?!? Dang, that is a long time!

Well I best go get ready for work, I am slacking today! Have a wonderful weekend and a great Friday all!

Steve Azar

STEVE AZAR IS AT NED DEVINES TONIGHT - AND I AM NOT GOING!! HE IS ONLY ONE OF MY FAVORITE ARTISTS. My girl friend from work and I were supposed to go, we forgot - and now I am completely bummed. Now, I really want to go and have no one to go with. When I worked in radio, I enjoyed every time he was in town playing our concerts, he kept a smile on my face. Well he, his bongo player, and his brother. Maybe I will go by myself.

Food, Food and Food

The past couple days have been very productive, although if you look at my list of things to do at work, you wouldn’t think so. About two items come off, five go on! My three day weekend did the trick, well for the time being!!

Today at work they did the drawing of who gets the privilege of attending the Tim McGraw/Faith Hill concert, and sadly I did not win that drawing. I am getting over it though. I have seen Tim 5 times, and would have loved to see him one more time, but I understand that I can’t go every time he is in our area. However, I can dislike the person that won! Tim: I am sorry I can’t see your concert, but sing Don’t Take the Girl for me!

I think I might rent a movie tonight. I am in the mood to have a beer, which I have to stop and get, and relax for the evening. The weather doesn’t really make you want to go anywhere, not even a beer run! Oh! I could splurge – beer/pizza/movie. Man, that just sounds too good to be true! Although I did spend a lot of money this past weekend, all on food! Maybe I will just hit the store and see what looks good for cooking, that way I have leftovers for work.

Well I am off to the store – my belly is hungry!

Charlotte, NC

I am back, and wish I was still with Dawn. I got there Friday when she got out work. We hit up Old Navy – I lost my brown flip flops and had to get a new pair. It was just Dawn and I for the weekend, her fiancé, Jim, was out of town. I have to say I really missed him being there. After Old Navy, we found a place to eat dinner. It was the two of us and a bunch of people in their 50’s or 60’s. This made for an interesting night. Dawn and I were catching up and laughing at points….by the looks we were getting, you would have thought we were two 16 year old loud gitty girls. One, we were not loud; two, we were not gitty. We had fun, and Dawn almost tripped the waitress when she had her hands full of food!! I almost died of laughter – and yes, at that point we were obnoxious, she apologizing, and me still laughing. After her extra large margarita and my beer we headed back to her place to chat some more. She is a wine person, and I can deal every now and then…so wine it was. We had one and a half bottles of wine! It was a great night of laughter. She had a rough morning; however, I think I ate enough for the army the night before, so I was fine!!

Saturday we just bummed around running errands and eating what ever I could get my hands on. That afternoon, while were getting ready to meet this guy Jessy for dinner, we watch The Family Stone. Very funny movie, some sad points, but humorous as well. After the movie, Dawn and I did something we don’t do that often, we got all dolled up to go to dinner. It was fun! We went to this amazing restaurant and I had a delicious Italian meat sandwich on fococcia with an olive spread. After dinner we went to the Mellow Mushroom, for one more drink. They had Labbatts Blue, and that I had to have!! Man was it tasty. Gotta love Labbatts!

Sunday we woke up and went to Brueggar’s for breakfast – only my favorite bagel place. After that, I hit the road for home. Although, I did find a need to stop at Steak’n’Shake for a large milk shake. I would be in heaven if the DC area had Steak’n’Shake and a Brueggar’s.

I get home, and an hour later I lost power – and still don’t have it! Bart was going crazy, but at least we had each other. That is one reason I would like a roommie, for when the power goes out, and you are in the dark during a thunderstorm. Not my most favorite thing. I was good though, usually I call my friends, but I didn’t do it this time. I just hope I go home to power. Cross your fingers!

NC here I come!!

Today is my day off, and what do I want to do? Go to work and make sure everything is as it should before I head off. Yes, I did that last night before I left. I still want to go it and give verbal reminders to my boss of what needs to go out/be done kinda things. I sent an email, but those always get lost in the shuffle. So now I am fighting the urge to NOT think about work. Bart is doing a good job helping me, he wants to play. We played a bit, and I kicked his little butt! Yea, I am not that nice, I don't let him win.

Anywho, I hope everyone has a joyous weekend. One that is full of lots of laughter, food, and good company.

I wanted to get some good books on tape for the drive, but my dumb butt spent too much time prepping work for my day off, I didn't get any. Luckely I have great taste in music, I have that to sing along to and bother all other drivers with my horrible singing voice.

Well I best go pack, and get my butt in gear.

My Funk

Thank goodness I am getting away this weekend. I have been informed of some news that has thrown me for a loop. And this news, it did not come from who it should have. The person that should be informing me of this now doesn’t know that I know. So I am sitting here will a thousand questions, and no answers. I have to wait until the correct person tells me. It is very frustrating, and I still need to focus on the job at hand. So I am focusing on getting through today and making it to Charlotte tomorrow to see my friend and get my mind off work.

Yesterday I had to “talk” to the intern again. It is getting to the point that now I feel bad every time I have to close the door and talk to her. I feel like the worst person, she must think I hate her, and I don’t hate her – I am just not getting it. I’ll get over it, I just feel like I am sounding like my old boss/friend, Mike when he used to yell at me at work. But at least when he was done getting mad at me, he would ask “are we still going out for beers after work?” and I would know that we were still good! With intern, she doesn’t know me that way. She knows the work me, but not the fun side of me. All well, I’ll get over it. I can’t please everyone.

Well I best get to work. Lots to do, always the case! But come 5:30 – there will be one big smile on my face!!

Girls Weekend!!

It is almost here!! Two more days of work, then I am off for a weekend of fun. I can't wait. Jimmy is going out of town with the guys, so Dawn and I decided it was the perfect time for us grils to hang out. I head to Charlotte Friday morning, and right now, that can't come soon enough. I need the weekend away more than anything!

The past couple days have been fun. I have been catching up with old friends. Jasho was one of my good friends in High School, we lost touch after college. He seems to be doing great still, which is always good to hear. Then a guy I was in a class with 7th - middle 10th grade, Jeremy is his name. He is now married and still living on Colorado. I was saying how it is nice to hear that he is doing well, then he says - why are you single, you are pretty and great to be around. I wanted to punch him, He wouldn't give me the time of day when we were younger. The only time he talked to me was when he needed a volleyball partner for the coed intermural teams. I laughed it off, but hello! But it has been fun seeing where old high school friends are.

I have been having odd dreams again. Dreams that just don't make sense, but in a way they make complete sense. My dreams take place in Rochester, with the people I have met while living here - and the events just don't line up. Kinda funny. I haven't been sleeping through the nights either. I wake up at 4, and Bart is not pleased with this, but now is getting used to it. To my body, 4am seems like a perfectly good time to wake up, get some food (what else can you do at 4am?) and watch some tube. Mad About You is on Nick at Nite, that is better the CSPAN. I tend to not go for depressing news at 4am. Heck, I wake up to it on talk radio. So yea, I go back to sleep around 5:30 to wake up at 6 or 6:30. Yea, this needs to end. Although, I am not that tired at work, so that is a good thing.

Well I am off to make some food. I am pretty hungry!!

PULLING HAIR OUT

So my summer intern is, well you can say, a bit odd. She has had difficulty with everything I have thrown her way. Let me explain the statement "thrown her way." This statement means, sat down with her to give a full explanation with full details and even demonstrated how things are done. Has she been able to handle the tasks - NO! I finally found something she can do - call people with a script provided. Now it only took 15 test phone calls for her to get used to what is expected of her...but we got there!

Yesterday, I was a bit bored sitting at her desk with her all day listening and watching her make calls. A co-worker came to work and told me (because she knew it would make me happy) that her son received the math award. Right then I decided I wanted a math award!! (now keep in mind, I am still sitting directly next to my intern who can hear everything we are saying) So my co-workers makes me three multiplication problems and three long division problems...I do them, acting like they are difficult (part of the fun time we were having) and get them all correct. (shocking!) I return to my desk an hour later to see a math award hanging there!! yay!

Today before we enter a meeting, little miss intern indicated she wanted my job since I don't do anything. (NOT HAPPY AT THIS POINT) After the meeting, she did not notice I was right behind her when she stopped at my desk, and commented on my math award. She said "and she started as an EE major in college? huh." Then proceeded to turn to the guy that sits across from me and says "all she does is babysit Michael." (Now I am PISSED) She didn't know I overheard all of it. I calmed down, took most of the day, and pulled her into the office later for a little chit chat. I think it is safe to say, we are not on good terms. She is walking some thin ice!!!! I spend my days babysitting HER and she has the gull to ask what I do or tell me she wants my job since I don't do anything. Little miss brat doesn't realize I work nights to make up for sitting by her side all day. She met the nice Kelly, now she will meet strict Kelly. Sucks to be her!

Tomorrow - happy hour! Any takers??

grass stained pants

Thursday we were able to wear jeans to work. It was spring cleaning day, then at 4:30 we were having a happy hour at work to say adios to a fellow co-worker, for Friday was her last day. My day was very productive one, leading up to a unexpected evening. 4:30 happy hour was the beginning of it all. At 6:00 I was getting ready to leave. Called mom, she was having a bad week, and I told her I would make her a drink. She bailed on me for a work project, that she didn't really have a choice in. So I stayed for one more beer. 6:00 turned into 8:30, and some people were no so sober, so I allowed them to come to my house. A co-worker had never played power hour before, and another co-worker and I said we would teach her the ways. Power hour lasted 36 minutes, and it was outside dancing. This is where the grassed stained pants come in. I was too drunk to dance, as was another - yet it didn't stop us. He was teaching me how to waltz, and dipping me so far that I would hit my head on the ground. Then it was time for a couple of those drunken dialing sessions, then off to bed...on the couch. Yet I woke up in my bed? Yes, the charming co-worker carried me to my bed so he could take the couch. Gentleman! Woke up as if we never drank!!

Drunken calls - that all went to one person - and I am truely sorry. Next time I need to call a friend that won't hate so much as this one person in my life. Why do I choose the one person that has so much hate in his heart?? All well, everyone at work got a kick out of it, and I said my apology.

Dancing Shoes

Yesterday was relaxing. I rearranged my bedroom - and if anyone were watching, they would have gotten a nice laugh. Moving a big bed and furniture that would normally take two people was an interesting task. But I am not one to be patient and wait to ask for help. It got done, and I like it. Especially at 4:00 this morning!

Last night was girls night! We all put on our little "cute" outfits and hit the town. We began our night having cocktails at Jessica's then hit DuPont Circle. The place we wanted to go was closed - so off to Adam's Morgan we went. We went salsa dancing for a a couple hours, that was funny. I was laughing my ass off dancing with those guys. The first guy I danced with - his salsa was a bit odd, to say the least, he just liked to shake his ass. So shake it, he did! The the sweetest guy asked me to dance, and he was affraid to hold me - it was like he never danced with a stranger before. Although going salsa dancing, and sweating like that, you want to go with a partner. We learned our lesson. So next time I think Shana and I will go with her boyfriend and her boyfriend's older brother - they can salsa!! After that we hit Tom Tom. I can't believe how many guys will grab your ass, don't they think some girl will turn around and smack them? We danced there until we had enough time to make it to the last train at the metro. All in all, it was a great night.

Oh and next time - no I will not wear the shoes I wore. They were the only shoes i had that went with the shirt I wore - but man did my feet hurt after dancing. Oh - but all my guy friends out there, learn salsa, the girls will LOVE it! :)

I best go cook - I am having company for dinner.

Gray

Today it is gray out - not blue and sunny. I had my day planned for and blue and sunny day, not a gray one. So I am to rearrange my thoughts and ideas for the day. Bart woke me up nice and early. We finished watching the last couple episodes from Gilmore Girls - Season 5. So much happening, Rory dropping out of Yale, and Loreli proposing to Luke - oh the drama!!

As for the rest of the day, since going to annopolis is not longer in the the agenda (this was for a blue and sunny day) I am going to rearrange my bedroom. Try a new look and see what works. I was also thinking about repainting the kitchen...but then I remembered I want to make a larger whole in the wall between the kitchen and dining room, and I should probably wait to repaint until after the whole making project. So it went back to the bedrooms. I could paint the spare bedroom, but then I have to come to a conclusion as to what color it will be, and that isn't happening anytime soon. So painting is out. This bringing me to my bedroom - can't paint that since I am having the same color issue as I am with the spare bedroom, all I have left is to rearrange. So rearrange it is.

I am off to put on some good music, loudly, and get working. Moving my bed might take a while - the pencil posts are kinda heavy. But hey! I don't have anyone here to hit on the head with them, so I am doing good already!!

Milk - Does a Body Good

I would have to say, it’s amazing how people feel on certain things. This morning, a couple co-workers and I had a large conversation on milk. This might sound rather odd, but it was a good conversation. There are a few of us that are very picky as to what milk we drink and where we get it. Personally I prefer Wegmans milk – 1%. The “new guy” John hasn’t bought milk in this area yet – he is used to his Ohio milk and was asking where we get our milk. Who ever though I would be having a 30 minute conversation on what milks we like.

Tomorrow night should be fun – I am going salsa dancing with some girls. It has turned into a girls night, not what I really hoped for (this girls boyfriend’s brother dances, and I wanted to see if we were compatible), but it will be fun still.

Okay – so I realized why I like to hang with the guys much more than the girls. Last night I met up for happy hour with some “friends” and for the first hour or so, it was just three of us girls. The choice of topic – sex. Sex talk gets old REAL fast, well at least to me, they talked about it most of the night. Man, with the guys we at least talk about who can burp the best, funny movies, sean and kyle’s raunchy farts and food. We have beers and laugh at all the dumb stuff in the world. Last night – forced laughter. These girls obsess over all the odd crap in the word.

Well, that is all for now. It is almost lunch time – and I need to focus on lunch!

Rochester

Today our division is going to Hamburger Hamlet for lunch. If you don’t know what that is, you are deprived. It sounds like a Bill Gray’s or Tom Wahl’s – but oh no, it is far from it. It a casual nice sit down restaurant with about twenty amazing burgers to choose from, and today we are going!! I will have to get my usual order: French onion soup and a nacho burger. Their French onion soup is one of the best I have ever had, and the nacho burger, it makes my mouth water just thinking about it. You can’t mock it until you try it!! Our division is waiting on one person to get out of a meeting…and she best hurry. We would be there right now if it wasn’t for her dumb, boring, annoying meeting. Who schedules meetings at 11 when we like to eat between 12 and 12:30!?!? Rude I tell you, just plain rude!!

Last night I had my second to last dance class. It was fun. We did the tush push again at the end of class, and again, the class laughed at me since I knew the dance. HELLO! You need to get out more peeps! After dance, I went to Justin’s and he took me to Clyde’s for desert and a glass of wine. A very relaxing, perfect evening, although the stars were hard to see. I didn’t leave his place until 12:30 – so today I am exhausted, it is worth it. Next week is his birthday – so I need to head to the store to get him something. 

I am thinking about taking a trip home. I haven’t been home since November, and I haven’t been home for “fun” or on my own agenda since Christmas 2004. I would like to take my time to see my friends and family – but I am not sure if I am up to it. I would like to see Sean before he moves, and my brother. It is just so much work to go home. You have the grandmother visit, the aunts, uncles and cousins to see…then your friends. Friends are the most difficult to fit in. I have the CP gang that I would like to see, but then I end up spending all my time with my brother and Sean. Also, all your friends want you to go where they are instead of helping you out and them coming to the bar you are in. OR I could go the route where I don’t tell anyone I am coming home – but then when I return and people find out your where in town and you didn’t call – trouble! I will keep thinking.

Christine – hope your trip continues to go well!