The Pets.

I've returned! Actually, I've been back from vacation for a few days, but you know how it is trying to get everything caught up after time off. Until I get some pics from our most recent trip, here are a few of my favorites from home.

This is my sweet kitty, Delilah. She has to be shaved every summer cause she's got such loooonnnng hair and living in the south, it gets pretty warm. Doesn't she look happy and cheerful?












"Look into my eyeeeeessss. You will do as I say. Now, bring me the dog's head on a platter."


Here she is again, fully clothed. She still has the look of a serial killer, but it's just an act. She's bat shit crazy, no doubt, but afraid of EVERYTHING!












"If you think I'm falling for that stupid trick again, you've got another think coming!"

Here is Duchess, my Great Dane. She's the best dog a person could ask for, as long as you don't mind her size. She weighs close to 100lbs, but if you let her, she'll be all up on your lap.She was the runt of the litter, but still takes up most of the room in my tiny house.












"Huh? Did I hear my name mentioned? I swear I heard you calling me."

The Post that Ate My Post

My husband and I are going on a working vacation this weekend. Well, work for me, vacation for him. Anyway, it got me thinking that maybe I should post some pictures from the previous trip we took. This past September, Andy and I spent a fun filled, romantic week in the Smoky Mountains. We had a fantastic time and can’t wait to go back. If Andy had his way, we’d move there tomorrow.


This was our cabin in the woods. It was cozy, comfy and secluded. On one of our last mornings, we were even visited by some of the locals- a family of wild turkeys. Renting this was worth every penny, but in all honesty it wasn’t much more expensive than an average hotel room.


Obviously, this is the interior of the cabin. You can see the gas fireplace and cable tv, but there were lots of other amenities. The single bedroom had a big jacuzzi tub, the loft was equipped with a pool table and tv, and best of all, on the back of the deck sat a hot tub tucked into the corner.


Here is Ripley’s Aquarium. This was probably the best part of the trip (at least that I am admitting too). It was fun and even a little educational. As you can see, gorgeous flowers were blooming all over the place. Gah, I wish I could grow those at home.


Hmmm, a King Crab. Okay, maybe it’s just because I don’t eat seafood, but I had no idea those things were so freakin’ humongous. If you ask me, he looks like some sort of prehistoric bug life.


Honestly, the octopus was a little disappointing. I was hoping for some Steven King horror movie-esque creature and got the small fry above. Still, he is kinda cute in a way. Like a “I can carry you in my pocket and scare people” way.


I can’t remember what type of shark this is, but he was just sitting on the glass above our heads, so I had to get a shot. I don’t think I’ve ever seen the underbelly of a shark before, pretty gross looking. Doesn’t that scar thing make him look like some sort of Frankenstein reject?


Sharks, again. This was the most exciting part of our tour in the aquarium. I’ve always been fascinated by these huge predators and seeing them up close was a thrill. There must have been dozens of them just swimming over, beside and behind us. How people get in those shark cages on the Discovery Channel is beyond me. You gotta respect the power of such a graceful killer.


This last picture is my favorite. Not because of the type of fish, but the colors and beautiful coral you can see in the background. Plus, while I’m no photographer, it looks centered and in focus, so I’m proud of it.


That’s it for now. I’ve got more, but they will be stretched out in several posts. Hopefully, I will get some new pics from this trip to post faster than I did last time. But, don’t hold your breath.

Puedo le ayudo?

My husband is an assistant manager at a local tire and mechanic shop. Because the part of town where he works is, in PC terms, "ethnically diverse", he has a lot of clientele that can't speak English very well. He always jokes about this saying "I can't speak Spanish, but my broken English is getting pretty good." He tries his best to listen and interpret what the people tell him, but sometimes, it just ain't happenin'. Case in point:

Mexican man enters store, looking for tires.- "Necesito algunos neumáticos para mi carro. ¿Qué usted tiene y cuánto son?"

Hubby- "I'm sorry. I don't speak Spanish. Can you speak any English?"

MM- "No, No sé inglés. Necesito conseguir algunos neumáticos. ¿Puede usted ayudarme?"

Hubby- (pointing around the showroom)"Okay, let's try this. Show me what you want."

MM- (confused look) "No le entiendo. Necesito los neumáticos. ¿Usted tiene cualesquiera?res. ¿Puede usted ayudarme?"

Hubby- "I give up, sir. I don't know what you are asking for and so, I can't help you."

MM- (turns to leave) "Restrooms?"

Hubby- " Sorry, sir, I don't speak Spanish."

Random Customer in waiting room- "Man, I think he needs to use the bathroom."

Hubby- "Oh."

What is today?

I heard something on the radio last night that I thought was pretty funny.

"Children are hereditary. Think about it- if your parents hadn't had children, chances are you wouldn't either."

But that's not what this post is about.

This post is about holidays. Some of you may be aware that President's Day is coming up. Feb. 20th, which is next Monday, to be exact. I have to ask... Why is this a holiday? Yeah, I know, it's a day to pay respect to the past leaders of our country, but who really does that? I guess my question is closer to HOW does one celebrate President's Day? Should we dress up as a famous president? Are there decorations for this holiday? Should we bake a cake or exchange gifts? Maybe a moment of silence? In all reality, all we can do is think back on the things they accomplished and how far our country has come due to their endeavors. I can manage to do that in my cubicle, thanks.

Did I mention that I get that day off from work? Which, I am totally not complaining about, but c'mon. What's the point of staying home? Do these people think that on Monday, I'm going to sit around my house reading history books and watching the specials on PBS? Because I'm not. I will sleep in, read trashy romance novels, and just generally lay around. Like I said, I'm not mad at the forced paid time off, but couldn't we have picked a better holiday to stay home?

Take Halloween, for example. Okay, okay, I know this isn't a "holiday" per se, but most families take part in the festivities. So, for most of the population, you have to speed home from work, rush through dinner, wrangle your kid into a costume, try to keep up with them for the first 5 blocks of walking, then carry them the last 4 (while holding various sacks FULL of candy) and all this is the easy part. When you get back to the house, it's time to clean them up, inspect each peice of sugary goodness for needles, poison, WMDs, everything. After which, you will fight with your child to leave the candy alone, cause it's too late for them to eat sweets, until you finally coax them into bed with promises of a lunch box full of his/ her very favorite bits.

What does this accomplish? How does it make sense to let kids and parents off on the one holiday that they are least likely to celebrate, yet force them all to be present when they are hopped up on sugar with only 4 hours sleep?

This thought process could apply to many days throughout the year. Days that a lot of folks would be much more appreciative to have off from work because a little less stress would be a gift from above. I, for one, would prefer to have St. Patrick's Day to stay home. Who needs the mad dash to find something green to wear or getting pinched because you HAVE NO GREEN SHIRT? Or the day after New Year's day. I mean, what partier is over their hangover from that night in 24 hours? But alas, the government or whoever that decides what constitutes a legal holiday, didn't ask me. So, I'll just take what I can get. Which, apparently, is President's Day.

It's My Party and I'll Cry if I Want To...

Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you- The Birthday Girl. TaDa!!

Today, I turn 27. While not a momentous birthday year, it does serve to remind me that I am no longer in my early 20's and 30 is looking younger everyday. However, unlike most people, women in particular, I look forward to turning the big 3-0. Maybe it's because, somedays, I still don't feel like a "grown up". Despite being out of the nest for well over 5 years, adulthood has somehow eluded my comprehension. I find myself looking behind me, waiting to see my mom come into the living room and tell me that I need to finish my homework. It's not that I don't want to take responsibility, and in fact, I do. I just don't feel like I've earned this right to call myself an adult. I'm hoping hitting my 30's will change that, but I do wish there was an easier way. Like hypnotherapy.

And now, I feel like a real tool. My sister-in-law, you know, the annoying, nosy, bossy one? She sent me the most beautiful flower arrangement ever. So, thank goodness she has no idea about this blog cause she'd probably come up here and take them back. Usually, she gets me something kinda tacky and I wouldn't mind her taking it back, but this time, she done good.

My husband and I had plans to go to dinner tonight with my mom to celebrate, but it looks like our plans will have to be postponed. We are being hit with a big (well, big for a Southern- melt- your- eyeballs- in- summer type of city like this one) snowstorm and the whole freakin' city shuts down at the first inkling of ice or snow. Sweet Andy offered to go out and pick up the steak dinner, that I SKIPPED LUNCH FOR PEOPLE, but it's not the same. Naturally, me and my stupid self didn't bother to grocery shop when I needed to and now every store will be ransacked because winter is a foreign concept to the good folks down here.

So, if you see me, embarassed for being an ass, carrying a big bouquet of flowers and ready to pass out from lack of sustenance, don't forget to yell "Happy Birthday, old fart!"

While the cat's away...

Last week, my FIL bought a motorcycle. This wouldn't be discussion worthy news usually, but in the In-Law household, it's front page material. Why? Because Mrs. B? DID NOT WANT A MOTORCYCLE. Or maybe I should say, she didn't want Mr. B to get a motorcycle. Therefore, much drama and heated arguments "in front of the kids" ensued. (Kids, as in, my husband and me)

Mr. B had a motorcycle for the majority of his younger years and in fact, used to ride every fall to Massachussetts to visit his father. (As vindication for my complaints regarding his cheapness, since the more you read the less frugal they sound, I will include the fact that he slept on picnic tables each night to save money.) He used the motorcycle as an everyday vehicle to get to and from work, the Wafflehouse and wherever else he needed to go. There were some road rage incidents, including an episode where his dad threw a big wrench through someone's back window that had cut him off, almost causing him to wreck. But all in all, he was a pretty responsible rider. Alas, that could not carry on forever and as they had kids their need for a "family car" trumped his need to be cool. So, the motorcycle was sold and a small sedan replaced it in the driveway.

Over the years, his desire for a bike remained and he knew that eventually, the kids would be grown and gone. However, when that day came, Mrs. B had some objections to the idea of his getting a new (used) ride. The first and foremost reason was the lack of money. It was too expensive. But, then a couple of years ago, Mr. B's dad passed away and left them a substantial sum, so money problem solved. He started looking and even slipped a quote on one he was eyeing to her. Only now she had other excuses. There not safe. He's too old. They go too fast. Anything she could think of to stop the conversation before it started. It got to the point that she ran out of reasons, so when he would mention buying one, she just left the room. He finally got sick of it.

So last week, Mr. B called Andy and told him his plan. He had already been to the bank to get approved for a loan. He had the bike picked out. All that was left was the purchase. He went after work and made the deal with the intentions of just showing up at home, fait accompli. Needless to say, the shit hit the fan because Mrs. B? doesn't like to be surprised or disobeyed. She went on a rant like I've never seen in my 8 1/2 years around that family, but all my fil would say was he didn't care if she was mad. He wanted it, he was keeping it.

It took a couple of days, but she finally came up with a suitable "punishment"- she was going to buy something expensive that she'd always wanted. A big screen tv. That was the consequence for his actions. He got a motorcycle AND big screen? WTF? Didn't make sense to me either. The only condition was the SHE gets total control of the remote. Maybe that was the punishment part?

Through it all, I've been giggling like a schoolgirl. Partly because these people can be so selfrighteous sometimes, but mostly cause I like to see Mrs. B get steamed up. The woman can be very controlling with her family and it's kinda gratifying to see her be defied so openly. Maybe it's wrong to take pleasure in others pain, but I don't feel guilty. I'm just glad my husband thinks the same way.

From Red to Blue

Last night, the President gave the State of the Union Address. It was probably one of his best efforts at public speaking I've seen, with only a few small slips and mess ups. That said, I still hated it. As always, that smug little half smirk was on his face the whole night and my hand itched to slap it off. Even at the most inappropriate times, Bush looked like this was all some farce, not to be taken seriously. To be honest, I couldn't believe he had the guts to mutter the words weapons of mass destruction. Why in the world would you remind everyone of the biggest, most obvious mistake of your entire presidency?

Hi, my name is Kim and I'm a Democrat. I haven't always been, but after finally waking up and paying attention to what politicians are saying, the realization came to me. Before the war and fall of Saddaam H., I claimed to be a Republican. Why? Cause my parents were. Good reason, huh? Whenever school would start a project or lesson that surrounded politics, I would ask my mom- am I a Democrat or Republican? Republican, she'd reply, but could never tell me why. Just that all my grandparents were, therefore my parents are, therefore I am. Only, not so much. The same story line was being played out at my husband's house. His parents were conservatives, so he was supposed to be. Again, not so much.

It took a long time for me to warm up to the idea of change. Everyday, Andy would come home from work a little more liberal-minded then when he left. Many evenings, we fought about it, but since I knew very little about the political party I was backing, he shot down all my logic. I got wise to it and started listening to the speeches and debates more closely. After a while, I began to understand what each party is about and what their intentions were. Slowly, but surely, I made the change to blue.

Nowadays, we don't discuss politics with many people anymore. Mainly, cause a majority of our friends are more right winged. It's become a constant bone of contention between Andy and his dad. Still, at least I have pride knowing that I am choosing someone because of what they stand for and not just cause my mommy said so.

Fast forward to last night's speech. When it began, the tv announcer stated that the Rep. folks were sitting to the right when looking at the President and Dems. were on the left (makes sense). Bush spoke about things we all want and are hoping for- an end to the war, more money for education, less dependency on foreign oil, a balanced budget and a utopia where all politicians are really 'representing the common man'. By the end, everytime Bush got a sentence out, the red side would give a standing ovation, while the blues sat back and waited. Finally, they got their chance when the President mentioned how congress didn't pass his social security privitization act. All of a sudden, the whole left side was cheering and standing. At home, I, too was clapping. And this time, I understood why.

When my child asks me if they are Reublican or Democrat, I'll try to explain the differences and leave he/she to make up their own mind. Whatever they choose, I'll support. So long as they know why and what they are standing for. That's the important part.

You can get anything at WalMart

Wal-Mart is being talked about a lot lately. Anytime I hear the name, I am reminded of how my husband and I met. Why? Cause I got him at Wal-Mart.

I had just graduated high school 2 months before and was going to meet a guy that I knew for a date. Bob* worked at WalMart in the automotive department and that's where we decided to meet up. Well, I was waiting for him to tidy up around his register when in walked this very hot guy with a dirty smudge on his nose. I knew immediately that I would rather go out with the stranger than Bob, but felt stuck. For some reason, Stranger Andy and I hit it off really well, and talked the whole time I was waiting for Bob. We walked around the car accessories aisle, thoroughly discussed the multitudes of cheap stereos and franky, flirted our asses off. Still, I was committed to my original date. As we were preparing to leave, Bob went to say his goodbyes and put one last item back in the warehouse area. It was then that Andy struck. He slipped his number into my purse and pretended like nothing happened. (I won't go into detail about that fact that he had just given his number to the lady at the counter, Gigi, who was needing help with some car issues.) So, off I went with Bob, a silly grin that had nothing to do with him stretched across my face. The next day, I developed a horrible ear infection and went to the doctor. After coming home, I dug into my purse and pulled out the slip of paper with Andy's home number scribbled on it. The phone rang and rang, when finally his mother picked up. Andy wasn't home. I politely left my name and number and asked her to pass on the message. She did and within 15 minutes, I was chatting with him like we had known each other forever. He cracked me up with his wonderful sense of humor, so when he asked to take me out that night, it was hard to say no. I tried though, cause my ear was hurting. But Andy would not be refused and pretty soon, he had talked me into just going out for a few games of pool and a quick dinner. He came to pick me up, but then couldn't find my house. After he had passed it several times, I waited for him at the curb. We played pool, as planned and went to the Waffle House for a late night dinner. It was the best date ever. Yeah, I know, sounds pathetic, but it wasn't great because of where we went, but the connection we felt. It was amazing. The next morning, I was all hummy smiles and sunshine. My sisters had a grand time teasing me about this "love at first sight" encounter, but I knew it was something real. Andy called me that afternoon and we made plans to see each other again. After that, it wasn't ARE you going to see him, but WHEN are you. We became inseparable. Shortly, thereafter, we had the discussion to make it exclusive (not that either of us had been out with anyone else during that time). Not long after that, came the "I love you"s and the rest is history.

This July, we will celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary and 9th year as a couple. I still remember Andy's face with that grease smudge so long ago and am reminded of how lucky I am to have someone so incredible to share my life with. And all I had to do was get him at Wal-Mart.


* Some names have been changed to protect the innocent.

Trapeze Artist

I am a clutz. Always have been, always will be. Many are the times that I have hurt myself in the dumbest way. Take for instance, the time that I broke my arm. I was in the fifth grade, about 10 years old, when it happened. I was playing on a swingset and fell off. A SWINGSET people. At age 10. Sad. I had no business being on it to start with, as we had outgrown the thing years before. It was one of those that had the metal tube frame, a slide at one end, a line of swings and a teetor totter at the opposite end. Old school style, you know?

Anyway, my stupid self was hanging from the pole across the top that held everything and swinging by my arms. Somehow, I managed to swing my body right off the set and into the air, landing with a thud on the ground nearby. Jason, my friend who's backyard we were playing in, came running to my rescue. When he saw it was more than he could handle, he went for his dad. Mr. S came outside and assessed the damage. He sent Jason back in the house to call 911. Jay was soooo excited! He got to call 911! I'll never forget how the boy told me about it while I layed on the ground waiting for the ambulance.

My mom, of course, rushed over after calling my dad at work. She sat with me while the paramedics checked me out and made an educated guess as to what was wrong. I looked up at one of the men and sighed saying, "Did I break another one?" He just chuckled that yes, it was indeed broken, but they didn't know how bad. The paramedics packed up and left without me since it wasn't an emergency. My dad got home and both parents took me to the hospital. I don't recall much after the ride, except when I woke up from having the arm set and put in a cast. First thing I said to my dad was "I'm sorry. I won't do it again." My father, the joker that he was, replied, "Yeah, and I won't break your other arm." The nurses called some folks about that comment.

This incident followed just 3 years on the heels of the when I broke my leg in an ugly accident that included a bicycle, steep driveway and concrete curb. Which had happened only 2 years after the broken collarbone that was absolutely not my fault.

I wonder why my mom never let me mow the yard?

Heads Down, Seven Up

This post idea? Yeah, I stole it. I'll think up something original later.

7 Things I plan to do before I die
1) travel outside the continental US
2) have a baby
3) get more life insurance
4) fly on a plane (no, I never have)
5) win the lottery
6) pay off all my debt
7) take a cruise

7 Things I can do
1) make a mean broccoli and cheese casserole (thank you, home ec!)
2) manage 10 kids under 12 (that are NOT mine!) at once while in a museum
3) write legibly with either hand
4) drive a cab or a short bus
5) give my Great Dane a bath, by myself
6) paint a room without making a mistake
7) balance a checkbook

7 Things I cannot do
1) imagine life without my hubby, family or friends
2) point the same direction I am meaning (say left, point right & vice versa)
3) be at work on time
4) give up drinking coke
5) eat seafood
6) cook
7) deal with heights

7 Things that attract me to the opposite sex
1) sense of humor
2) eyes
3) good teeth and hygiene- very important
4) rough hands
5) loyalty and trustworthiness
6) great hair (including on the chest)
7) bowstaff skills

7 Things that I say most often
1) "By all means..."
2) "You know what I mean?"
3) "I dunno"
4) "Man,..."
5) "Big Ol'"
6) "Brand spankin' new"
7) "No lie"

7 Celebrity crushes
1) Paul Walker
2) Johnny Knoxville
3) Sean Connery (about 10 years ago)
4) Nicholas Cage
5) John Mayer (sp?)
6) Ike Barinholtz
7) Will Farrell

7 Things I can live without
1) dishwasher
2) electronic organizers
3) anwering services
4) coupons
5) PMS
6) stupid people and telemarketers
7) automatic soap dispensers

Kodak Moment

Ceiling repair bill: $300

Gallon of paint: $30

New shower stall light fixture: $45

Seeing your older sister's foot sticking through the attic floor into the shower below: priceless

Yes, it happened. Unfortunately, I didn't really get to see it.

My sister was in the attic searching for something, when she tripped and put her foot through the insulation in my mom's attic. Downstairs watching tv, my mother heard the commotion and asked if she was alright. My sister replied that she had fallen, but Momma didn't give it much thought. Until this morning. She went to take a shower in her bathroom, looked up and found a 7 1/2 foot sized hole in the ceiling of the shower.

Then, because my mom is the best thing since sliced bread, she called me to relate this story, so that we could both laugh at Sister. This, of course, makes my day so much better. I am still giggling and trying to picture the events exactly as it happened, but surely the real thing was even more hysterical.

Yeah, I know that sounds mean, but I think of it as Karma getting a little jab in while she could. Because Sister? Is a royal beotch. Maybe it would be a good idea to make her watch My Name is Earl, so she would pick up on the fact that if you do good things, good things will come to you. If you do stupid things, your ass will fall through the floor. It seems obvious that someone needs to teach her that lesson.

And now, I will get to call my hubby, who thinks Sister is a moron already, and retell the story to him. I can practically hear him laughing. (Until he realizes that Mom will probably ask him to fix the hole.)

Annual Review

Today, I finally finished my annual review for work. Well, at least all that I have an active part in. Now, it's just left to the higher ups to check it out and determine if I am making the grade. I actually finished most of it several weeks ago, but my boss only got around to having a meeting with me today regarding his approval and any changes he made.

And so far, so good. Bryan said that I am doing a standup job and they are happy that I am happy, blah, blah, blah. Which is righteous. While you may remember in a past post that I said I don't like my job, I certainly don't want to lose it. My feelings come from the mundacity and repetitiveness of my day to day responsibilities. To be honest, as far as employee satisfaction from the corporate standpoint, these people are all over it. My company is big on employees being happy. So, while insurance brokerage may not be as fun as say, professional blogging, it does suite my needs and is full of perks.

Hopefully, all this stress and worry will translate into a fat raise for me. Unfortunately, my company was hit with a huge financial burden a while back and people had to be let go. Granted, this was a year ago, but still, the money isn't flowing quite as freely as it once did. This isn't a big problem for me because (gasp!) I am content with my current salary. Not that I am stupid enough to not want more money, it's just that I've gotten used to little or no raise at past jobs and at the time was making considerably less. And as Don, my co-worker, said "At least we still get a paycheck." Truer words haven't been spoken.

I am grateful that I have a job and income. Purses and awesome bitch boots can not be purchased with food stamps. Not to mention, my dreams of having a child would go up in flames if we lost my support. And, I know that I will get something. We've been assured of that. So, now I just sit and wait for the results to come in. How much and when is it effective?

Give Me a Home, Where the Buffali Roam

Andy's dad loves a good joke. He also used to love to mess with Andy when he was a kid. He would tell Andy things as though they were fact, while lying through his teeth. This got my husband into trouble on more than one occassion.

One of these times, I like to refer to as the Myth of the Buffali. See, Mr. B (Andy's pop) somehow convinced Andy that the plural for buffalo was buffali. It took a bit of persuasion, but pretty soon, the idea set in. (Apparently Mrs. B had no idea what her husband was up to, cause I can't imagine her letting Andy go very long thinking this was fact.)

Anyway, the next day, Andrew got to school and started telling his friends about what he had learned. At first, the others didn't fall for this nonsense, but Andy is an incredible salesman. He managed to sway their thinking in his direction and before long had his classmates agreeing that the plural of buffalo must be buffali. Then, he went to the next class and started the process again. Only this time, a teacher must have overheard him and corrected his grammer. Andrew, being the rebel he is, argued back with her for a little while, but finally realized what his dad had done. Of course, he felt dumb, but mostly he was embarassed. By the end of the day, all his classmates knew what he had been saying and were giving him a hard time about it.

He hasn't trusted his dad since then. At least not without input from a different source.

I dredge up this story from time to time, to remind Andy that he CAN be wrong. (which isn't often in his mind) I like to ask him what happened to the mythical buffali. Did they die off? Are they in hiding with Elvis in Canada?

Betty Crocker Revisited

They cornered me. That's the only excuse I have for agreeing to it.

What is "It" you ask? Well, let me explain. Long ago, in a land faraway, my mother-in-law and sister-in-law thought it would be fun if our families got together once a month for dinner. To keep the work and cost part fair, it was decided that we would rotate houses and whoever was hosting was responsible for food. I agreed, mainly cause I am all about keeping the peace and refusing would have started WWIII with my SIL. This was to be a fun time to bond as a family. (Barf)

Instead, it became a dreaded ordeal that we avoided until the last possible night of the month. When it was our turn, I spent the day cleaning, cooking and preparing only to have them tromp through my house, including my SIL's 2 boys (now she has 3!), destroying my whole day's work. These people would nosy into our business about everything.

Now, when SIL got pregnant for the 3rd time, she was nauseous most of the duration. Therefore, our family dinners slacked off. Eventually, they stopped altogether. My husband and I began to see them less and less. This was fine with me.

Then, 2 weeks ago, my in-laws called us up and invited us out to dinner- their treat (which should have tipped me off). We met up with them at IHOP and had a fairly enjoyable dinner. It was after the meal that trouble started. Andy and his father went outside to "wait for the wimmen" and smoke a cigarette. That was when they caught me. SIL looks at MIL and me, saying "So, are y'all ready to start our dinner nights again?" MIL agrees, I mumble a non-answer. So, SIL takes this as a yes, looks directly at me and exclaims, "Good! We'll get started this month. January is your turn!"

I was blindsided. Feverish in my panic to find an excuse, I stammered. I honestly think this was a planned attack, cause these women knew that if I had had a moment to think, there would have been a reason to not join the family festivities. But there wasn't a moment. Not even more than a few seconds. As soon as SIL realized that she had me, she changed the subject. Next thing I know, we are gathering our things to leave and the decision has been made.

The in-laws will be coming to my house for dinner. Soon. Fabulous.

Is it that time already??

My parents were married for almost 23 years when they divorced. Like every child who's been through this (only I was 19), I always hoped they would reconnect. They dated each other for a while, however it didn't seem to work out. Then 5 years after the divorce was final, they reconciled. In March of 2005, Mom and Dad remarried and were happier than ever before. These two were not the same people that had separated in an ugly fight that had ended with him throwing us both out at 2 am. They had lost their resentment of each other and were ready to be together again. Sadly, it only lasted until Sept. 28th 2005.

Now, my mom is dating again. It's only been 3 months since Daddy passed away, and already she is joining the singles scene once more. Of course, it's easy for me to say it's only been 3 months, I have a husband and wonderful friends to support me and help me move on. Who does she have? Just us 4 girls, who in all reality, aren't that much of a help. And I can't imagine the loneliness and emptiness that is left behind when someone, with whom you've spent the majority of the past 30 years, is suddenly and permanently gone. This time must have seemed like an eternity.

She deserves to be happy. Mom is still young, energetic, caring, and full of love to give. Not to mention, she's beautiful and smart. Who am I to tell her that I'm not ready for her to be talking to new men? Who am I to say that I don't want her bringing dates home to the house my father bought and shared with her. How can I expect her to remain alone and sexless. (Yeah, I know, most people don't think about their mom wanting sex, but she is human after all.) Especially when it's not like he's coming back. That's not fair to her. I've told her that I trust her to take it slow and not jump into a relationship right away. But, in all honesty, even that's not my decision to make. Mom is an adult and can make up her own mind. I refuse to make her feel guilty for wanting someone to be with. I won't be angry with her for moving on. Still, it hurts to imagine her with someone other than my Dad.

So, for now, I will stuff it down and encourage her to find her way to a new world of people. I could only hope that she would support my decisions if the roles were reversed. And she would. I can do no less.

Dreaming, Dreaming

Last night, I had one of the weirdest and blood chilling dreams ever. It woke me up and as only those types of dream can, made me relieved to realize that it was indeed all in my head. Not to mention wonder what had incited this horrible nightmare.

It was set in a house in the depths of the jungle. Presumably, the house was my husband's and mine, yet I didn't recognize it. It was set on some sort of isolated cliff, the likes of which you would see in a Wile E. Coyote cartoon. You know, basically a tall pilar of land set apart from the surrounding areas. There was a rope bridge connecting the island to the rest of the world and vines hanging everywhere, but other than that, it was freestanding. A woman entered my dream home and was attempting to attack me. In defense, I grabbed a couple of knives, which convienently appeared out of nowhere. I warned and threatened the woman, however, she continued towards me in her pursuit. Therefore, I was left with no option but to stop her. I slashed at her face repeatedly, but it only slowed her down, not stopped. All of a sudden, I am holding a huge butcher's knife and I thrust it sideways at her throat. It cut through her neck enough to kill her and I was saved.

As dreams often do, the setting changed adruptly and I was standing before a movie poster for a newly released horror fick outside of a theater. This is where the details become more foggy. I do remember a deep freezer somewhere nearby that contained human body parts, such as feet, heads, and hands. Though I don't know if it had anything to do with the previuos chapter of my night or if the freezer was merely a prop gimmick for the movie. I do recall talking with someone and we were discussing the remains as if they were of no importance.

Then, as previously stated, I woke up and had to look around me to get a grip on my surroundings. After a quick trip to the bathroom, I was back in bed and once again dreaming.
Only this time, it wasn't a nightmare, just odd.

My husband and I were in a hotel room with his sister's 3 sons. We had taken them on vacation with us and were just returning to the room from a trip to the zoo. The phone rang and it was his sis, checking on the boys to make sure they were doing okay. I told her about all of our touristy adventures of plays, museums, and sightseeing. The boys actually disappeared the moment we entered the room, never to be seen again. After hanging up, we decided to enjoy the room sized hot tub in our suite, which came with a fountain and built in radio. Only, the thing was prehistoric as far as electronics go. The controls were on the front of a divider wall, which doubled as a wet bar. The thing was massive and we were having trouble getting it to work. Suddenly, the fountain sprang to life and began spewing steaming hot water all over the place.

At this point, the alarm starting going off and I had to rise and shine. Actually, I laid in bed for a few more minutes and explained my dreams to my husband because they were just so bizarre. I don't know for sure what caused them, but I can bet you that there will be no more late night snacks for a while. Especially Slim Jims.

So much for updating

I guess I haven't been as good about updating this as I intentioned. I will take the blame this time. Honestly, I've just been having more fun reading other people's sites and have had nothing worthy of discussion. Christmas was quite smoothe this year, so no complaints with that. Therefore,I have put together a list of 50 things that most people probably don't know about me. Because that's what this thing is all about- me.

1) I love living in my city. Yes, I know the politicians here suck, but this is where I grew up.
2) I hate jello with a passion. Especially when it has chunks of fruit floating, yet suspended in it.
3) I am not very emotional. (except sometimes during PMS)
4) I get nervous when changing lanes (anywhere) or driving on the expressway.
5) I love my Playstation.
6) I am a habitual procrastinator.
7) My palms sweat when I have to go to the doctor, even if for just a check-up.
8) My family usually annoys me more than my in-laws.
9) I won't admit it, but sometimes, I can be an oblivious-to-my-surroundings type of driver.
10) I don't like coffee unless it's got so much creamer that it no longer tastes like coffee.
11) I still love Cabbage Patch dolls.
12) I am insecure about myself and often wonder what people think of me.
13) I can be unbelievably lazy.
14) I love my mother and have been very protective of her for as long as I can remember.
15) I sucked my thumb until I was 12.
16) I am totally addicted to fast food.
17) I am scared (nay, paralyzed with the fear) of dying.
18) I read trashy romance novels and can sit for HOURS with one.
19) I am materialistically selfish. I prefer to shop for myself and therefore, have a difficult time with holiday shopping.
20) I have an almost unhealthy addiction to buying purses.
21) The best compliment I have ever received was recently when my mom told someone that I was her rock and she doesn't know what she would have done without me when my father and grandmother died within 3 days of each other.
22) I whine when I don't feel well.
25) I still wish upon a star, but mostly cause wishing is easier than getting out there and working for what I want. (see #13)
26) I believe that ketchup is a vegetable.
27) I had my first kiss in kindergarten with a certain Josh person. (At least I think he was the first, I was kinda the class ho back then.)
28) I lost my virginity at 17.
29) I wish I was skinnier, but not enough to really do anything about it. (see #16)
30) I don't like my job very much, and miss my days at the daycare. But frankly, they just don't pay enough and some of those folks are weird.
31) I was much more stressed at said daycare job, but also more fulfilled.
32) I think there is nothing so full of potential as a freshly sharpened pencil.
33) I have way more plastic food containers than I could ever use.
34) I can be extremely impatient, especially with someone who won't help do for themselves.
35) I love to paint rooms, mostly the cutting in around windows, doors, ceilings, etc. It's very peaceful and zen-like for me.
36) I think it's funny when my husband chases our cat around with his radio control cars.
37) I have to sleep with my feet outside the covers.
38) My sister's husband tried to mess around with me once. I pretended to be asleep and rolled over so he couldn't.
39) I've never told my sister and it's never happened again. (in his defense, he was really drunk)
40) I am ashamed that I didn't finish college, but I absolutely hate the idea of going back.
41) I really want to move, but we can't afford to right now.
42) I don't know how to rollerskate. My mom and I took a lesson once, but it didn't work out.
43) I sing while driving.
44) I love cheddar cheese and when I was young used to tell people (including complete strangers) that I eat a lot of cheese so I won't use up all the toilet paper.
45) The first time I met Andy's extended family, I set a towel on fire.
46) I prefer the winter over the summer.
47) I enjoy saurkraut.
48) I am scared that my daddy didn't go to heaven.
49) My family doesn't really celebrate any holiday very much. We have Christmas, but it's pretty modest.
50) I am a lucky person.

One of those mornings

You know the saying, "it just doesn't pay to get out of bed"? Yeah, it's been one of those mornings. It started out well enough. I convinced Andy to take the first shower, so that I could sleep the extra 20 minutes and had no difficulty picking out something to wear. That in and of itself would usually consitute a great start to the day. But then, Andy started fussing at me for reading in the bathroom. See, I am always running behind in the morning, so he made the valid argument that if I didn't get engrossed in my book and would JUST HURRY UP ALREADY, I might make it to work on time. However, despite being ready to go on time (a calander marking event) with my lunch made, no less, I was 15 minutes late. Why, you ask? Simple- I am a dunce. I dropped my key in the grass last night and didn't notice till I went looking for it this morning. I found it, but not before calling Andy in a panic. Oh, and in the middle of this conversation, I admitted that my gas light had come on (a major pet peeve of Andy's- doh!). Therefore, I HAD to stop for gas. I managed to make it here, but found my desk covered with "Things To Do" from my boss.

I wanna go home and start over. Too bad life doesn't have redos.

Blegh.


Update-

It just got better. The vending machine in my building? Has been restocked with the cherry coke. Also, I LOVE the vending machine with it's $.55 20 oz. drinks. What a deal.

Age of Aquarius

The Water Carrier
January 21 to February 19

Traditional
Aquarian Traits

Friendly and humanitarian
Honest and loyal
Original and inventive
Independent and intellectual

On the dark side....

Intractable and contrary
Perverse and unpredictable
Unemotional and detached

Okay, I can totally believe most of this, but perverse?? That's a bit much, methinks. (stop giggling y'all.)

Here's some more info.

Aquarius About Your Sign...

Aquarians basically possess strong and attractive personalities. They fall into two principle types: one shy, sensitive, gentle and patient; the other exuberant, lively and exhibitionist, sometimes hiding the considerable depths of their character under a cloak of frivolity. Both types are strong willed and forceful in their different ways and have strong convictions, though as they seek truth above all things, they are usually honest enough to change their opinions, however firmly held, if evidence comes to light which persuades them that they have been mistaken. They have a breadth of vision that brings diverse factors into a whole, and can see both sides of an argument without shilly-shallying as to which side to take. Consequently they are unprejudiced and tolerant of other points of view. This is because they can see the validity of the argument, even if they do not accept it themselves. They obey the Quaker exhortation to "Be open to truth, from whatever source it comes," and are prepared to learn from everyone.
Both types are humane, frank, serious minded, genial, refined, sometimes ethereal, and idealistic, though this last quality is tempered with a sensible practicality. They are quick, active and persevering without being self-assertive, and express themselves with reason, moderation and sometimes, a dry humor.
They are nearly always intelligent, concise, clear and logical. Many are strongly imaginative and psychically intuitive, so that the Age of Aquarius, which is about to begin, is much anticipated by psychic circles as an age in which mankind will experience a great spiritual awakening. The Aquarian philosophical and spiritual bent may be dangerous in that it can drive the subjects into an ivory-tower existence where they meditate on abstractions that bear little relevance to life. On the other hand it can help the many who have scientific leanings to combine these with the Aquarian yearning for the universal recognition of the brotherhood of man, and to embark on scientific research to fulfill their philanthropic ideals of benefiting mankind. When some cause or work of this nature inspires them, they are capable of such devotion to it that they may drive themselves to the point of exhaustion and even risk injuring their health.
Both types need to retire from the world at times and to become temporary loners. They appreciate opportunities for meditation or, if they are religious, of retreats. Even in company they are fiercely independent, refusing to follow the crowd. They dislike interference by others, however helpfully intended, and will accept it only on their own terms. Normally they have good taste in drama, music and art, and are also gifted in the arts, especially drama.
In spite of the often intensely magnetic, forthcoming and open personality of the more extrovert kind of Aquarian, and of their desire to help humanity, neither type makes friends easily. They sometimes appear to condescend to others and take too little trouble to cultivate the acquaintance of people who do not particularly appeal to them. They do not give themselves easily - perhaps their judgment of human nature is too good for that - and are sometimes accounted cold. But once they decide that someone is worthy of their friendship or love, they can exert an almost hypnotic and irresistible mental attraction on them and will themselves become tenacious friends or lovers, ready to sacrifice everything for their partners and be faithful to them for life. However, they are sometimes disappointed emotionally because their own high personal ideals cause them to demand more of others than is reasonable. And if they are deceived their anger is terrible. If disillusioned, they do not forgive.
Aquarians work best in group projects, provided that they are recognized as having a leading part in them. They have a feeling of unity with nature and a desire for knowledge and truth that makes them admirable scientists, especially astronomers and natural historians. They may excel in photography, radiography, electronics - anything connected with the electrical and radio industries - aviation and everything technical. On the arts and humanities side their progressive tendencies can be expressed in writing, especially poetry, and broadcasting, or as welfare workers and teachers. Some have gifts as entertainers and make good character actors (having an ability to mimic) and musicians. The more psychic among them possess healing gifts, especially in curing the mentally sick.
Among the faults to which they are liable are fanatical eccentricity, wayward egotism, excessive detachment and an inclination to retreat from life and society, and a tendency to be extremely dogmatic in their opinions. Aquarians can be a threat to all they survey or a great boon for humanity in general. Circumstances - for example, continuous opposition to a cause they hold dear - may cause the atrophy of the openness of mind that is one of the Aquarian's most attractive traits. They may express a lack of integrity in broken promises, secretiveness or cunning. Simmering anger and resentment, rudeness or, worse, a tense, threatening silence which may suddenly burst out in eruptions of extreme temper, these are all part of the negative side of the Aquarian. This can also reveal itself in a sustained hatred for enemies that is capable of enlarging itself into a misanthropy toward the whole of mankind.Possible Health Concerns...As Aquarius is said to govern the legs from knees to ankles and the circulation of blood, its natives are susceptible to ailments particularly in the legs and ankles, such as cramps, and are also liable to spasmodic and nervous complaints, as well as wind, catarrh, diarrhea, dropsy, goiter and delirium tremens - so that the avoidance of alcohol is important for those Aquarians who have a taste for it.
LIKES
Fighting for Causes
Dreaming and Planning for the Future
Thinking of the Past
Good Companions
Having Fun
DISLIKES
Full of Air Promises
Excessive Loneliness
The Ordinary
Imitations
Idealistic
Here are some interesting Aquarius facts:

Ruling planet is URANUS
TURQUOISE is the primary color
Birthstone is Garnet or Amethyst

AQUARIUS goes with Libra, Gemini, Sagittarius and Aries. (Best match is Libra)

Best Match For Aquarius Is LibraVery nice match up for Aquarius. This is one of the most compatible signs for you. They may or may not stay around forever due to their nature, but most likely they will due to the power of the union.. Don't hold too tightly though and you can be sure keep it going for years, forever even.

Worst Match For Aquarius is Virgo Try to avoid this match up if you can. True love conquers all, this is true, but even true love will be tested to the extreme here! You will think the Aquarian is nuts, and he or she will think you are ancient. Communication will be difficult, and there will most likely be a power struggle.

Hmmmmm... Andy is a virgo.

Room with a View

Okay, so I know that when I started this blog, I said that I wasn't going to post anything very serious. Well, now that I've gotten a little more comfortable with it, I thought it was time to add something just a bit more personal and close to my heart. I decided to write this poem yesterday, after having lunch with Andy, who agreed that it might be theraputic. Since, he's the hubby, it had to be read by him first, which he did last night. Now, this is not being put out here for sympathy or pity. It's simply a way for me to put my feelings into words and hopefully, begin to "process my grief". Thanks for reading.

It still Hurts

I can’t say goodbye to the man I loved so much.
I can’t stand the idea that I will never again feel his touch.

I long to hear him, one more time, say
I love you in his own special little way.

It still hurts deep down inside,
Knowing that this strong man has died.

I know that he will always be with me,
But it won’t be the same as it used to be.

Never again, can I look upon his face,
Because he is forever in his resting place.

There is still so much living to do,
But I just can’t stop feeling so blue.

They say the hurt will fade with time and age,
There is going to be another, easier stage.

Still, the grief, it fills me to the core,
My heart remains bruised and sore.

My thoughts are only of his lingering spirit,
I shake my head, but nothing can clear it.

Memories of the days gone by,
Make me want to scream, rant and cry.

While I cherish the pride and love he had.
I never knew love could make one so sad.

I suppose I should process my grief,
Maybe then I could find some relief.

Yet, I have my doubts that it will go away,
It seems the dark clouds are here to stay.

I will continue on with life as he would have wanted,
But my heart and soul will be forever haunted.

I miss you, Daddy.