to unveil
UnfortunateSerendipity.com
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the new site is up and running. I am still learning the ways of WordPress, but do me a favor and bookmark the new site, as I will no longer be updating at this Blogger address.
Archives are immigrating slowly but surely, as Blogger and I fight a custody battle over my intellectual (or non-intellectual) property.
Special thanks to Justin Baeder, WebbleYou, and Greg Kendall-Ball in helping me give birth to the new site. (No, none of them has been designated the father, thank you very much.)
Monday, May 16, 2005
Monday, May 09, 2005
You had me at hello....
Apparently, she did......as we have learned. Kenny Chesney and Renee Zellweger say 'I Do'.
Much better choice than Jack White from The White Stripes, if you ask me.
Much better choice than Jack White from The White Stripes, if you ask me.
The (un)timely demise of the DSG
The DSG has pretty much disbanded. Not that there was every much cohesion within the group. But, one must still mark the passing of an era.
The DSG (Divorce Support Group) headquarters was on Beltline Road in Irving...aka Villa d'Freeman...aka, my house. Membership was limited...to three people - myself, The Wired Monkey and Zen.
All had gone through divorces within six months of one another...and all chose to lean on the collective shoulders of the group. Granted, our brand of self-help wasn't exactly life-changing - - mainly good food and sometimes slightly questionable cinematic entertainment.
But, we were there for one another.
Now, however, the DSG has gone the way of the dinosaur and poodle skirts.
People are moving on. The Wired Monkey has found his inspiration in Lamp Lover. After finally meeting her at a quick lunch on Saturday....I can understand why he is so smitten with her. She's great. Very quick wit, and seems strong enough to handle the Monkey. Love you, Monkey - - you know that. The Wired Monkey seems to be the member with the most enthusiastic zest for the pursuit of a new relationship - - - unabashedly going for it. Wish I was that comfortable and secure with my self-worth. He's great to watch.
Zen is in introspective mode. Imagine that. He's not quite ready to make a physical move...but his experience with divorce happened six months after The Wired Monkey's experience....and five months after mine. He's making his progress...at his own pace. He's viewing it as a wading pool, I believe. He'll stick a toe in there....test the temperature and observe the ripple effect. If that suits him...then he might splash around in ankle deep water until he's fully comfortable. I am considering buying him a pair of water wings, just in case.
I have begun the tentative steps forward, also. Blue Vertigo has pretty much blown out of the water every expectation, schedule, pre-conceived notion, standard accepted practice, and socially acceptable tradition that I had stubbornly clung to for most of my existence. It's genuinely amazing and terrifying at the same instant. But, he celebrates my 'perfectly flawed' nature and hangs on for dear life during our discussions, which veer and sway like verbal rollercoasters. Plus, we do a darn good job of getting our responsibilities taken care of when we're together. This weekend was quite nice....though most of it was spent conducting business, research, writing and data entry. We both had our tasks to complete...but it was so nice to have some human companionship while getting things done. Scared much? Yes. Enjoying it? More so than I can express. Hopeful about the future? You'd better believe it. We will find ourselves amused by the sheer implausible origins of our new relationship...the 'if I hadn't, then we wouldn't' type conversations. Chance meeting, yes. Very, Very much so.
To bring my tag line back into things - - 'Why must everything come together perfectly at the wrong time?' You just can't choose to time these events. You can only take a deep breath and jump. So far, the ride's been great......and I couldn't ask for more.
So, cheers and goodbye to the DSG....we're making our way back into the fray, thanks to good friendship and encouragement...we can all say we're glad to leave those tougher times behind.
The DSG (Divorce Support Group) headquarters was on Beltline Road in Irving...aka Villa d'Freeman...aka, my house. Membership was limited...to three people - myself, The Wired Monkey and Zen.
All had gone through divorces within six months of one another...and all chose to lean on the collective shoulders of the group. Granted, our brand of self-help wasn't exactly life-changing - - mainly good food and sometimes slightly questionable cinematic entertainment.
But, we were there for one another.
Now, however, the DSG has gone the way of the dinosaur and poodle skirts.
People are moving on. The Wired Monkey has found his inspiration in Lamp Lover. After finally meeting her at a quick lunch on Saturday....I can understand why he is so smitten with her. She's great. Very quick wit, and seems strong enough to handle the Monkey. Love you, Monkey - - you know that. The Wired Monkey seems to be the member with the most enthusiastic zest for the pursuit of a new relationship - - - unabashedly going for it. Wish I was that comfortable and secure with my self-worth. He's great to watch.
Zen is in introspective mode. Imagine that. He's not quite ready to make a physical move...but his experience with divorce happened six months after The Wired Monkey's experience....and five months after mine. He's making his progress...at his own pace. He's viewing it as a wading pool, I believe. He'll stick a toe in there....test the temperature and observe the ripple effect. If that suits him...then he might splash around in ankle deep water until he's fully comfortable. I am considering buying him a pair of water wings, just in case.
I have begun the tentative steps forward, also. Blue Vertigo has pretty much blown out of the water every expectation, schedule, pre-conceived notion, standard accepted practice, and socially acceptable tradition that I had stubbornly clung to for most of my existence. It's genuinely amazing and terrifying at the same instant. But, he celebrates my 'perfectly flawed' nature and hangs on for dear life during our discussions, which veer and sway like verbal rollercoasters. Plus, we do a darn good job of getting our responsibilities taken care of when we're together. This weekend was quite nice....though most of it was spent conducting business, research, writing and data entry. We both had our tasks to complete...but it was so nice to have some human companionship while getting things done. Scared much? Yes. Enjoying it? More so than I can express. Hopeful about the future? You'd better believe it. We will find ourselves amused by the sheer implausible origins of our new relationship...the 'if I hadn't, then we wouldn't' type conversations. Chance meeting, yes. Very, Very much so.
To bring my tag line back into things - - 'Why must everything come together perfectly at the wrong time?' You just can't choose to time these events. You can only take a deep breath and jump. So far, the ride's been great......and I couldn't ask for more.
So, cheers and goodbye to the DSG....we're making our way back into the fray, thanks to good friendship and encouragement...we can all say we're glad to leave those tougher times behind.
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Do you ever get to that point?
Yes, as I type this...I am watching the time creep closer to three in the morning.
Blue Vertigo and I are sitting at my dining room table....laptops creating a shoulder high barrier that we glance over from time to time.
I am working on conversion data for my payroll system, and Blue Vertigo is working on homework...something about 'Ten Days with Diaper Rash'......(the aforementioned 'Diaper Rash' being a fictional name for a band......with which he is planning a fictional independent tour.....etc etc. as a class assignment).
We're both working hard to get things done. It doesn't help that my wireless web has had some 'connectivity' issues. I had to call Zen over to help us out. I won't go into details....but his declaration of the problem consisted of, 'That m*(#$%#$^$%^&$% piece of C*$(*#^(*#^$(@*#" .....but ultimately ended with Zen being crowned King Geek once again.
Blue Vertigo hates my guts right now. From what I can gather - - - he's not as much of a fan of flip-flop shopping as I had hoped.
At 9:00am, Blue Vertigo and I were conquering the monetary abyss that is Wal-Mart. I needed some necessities...including Diet Coke, baby oil gel (have to have smooth skin this summer) and 25 watt light bulbs (no thanks to Vic...who kept promising to supply some for me.)
Of course, we happen upon the flip-flop aisle. I want flip-flops. No, I NEED flip-flops.
Correction, We ARE NOT walking out of the store until BOTH Blue Vertigo and I have flip-flops.
(As an aside, ladies....I am pretty sure Blue Vertigo is now searching for a new girlfriend. Applications will be accepted over at his blog.)
I got a cute little pair of plain blue ones.....and Blue Vertigo (the risk-taker he is) ended up with a pair that looked exactly like the pair he wore into the store. Ponder that, my chickadees. Does he have a fear of the unknown? The inability to try something new? Does he have an unnatural attraction to that particular style? Is it an issue from childhood? I think I need to talk to his mother about this flip-flop issue.
Well....ladies and gents...it is 2:58.....I am gonna get back to work...and Blue Vertigo is, too. Otherwise, he has to stop mooching off of my wireless connection and go home!
Blue Vertigo and I are sitting at my dining room table....laptops creating a shoulder high barrier that we glance over from time to time.
I am working on conversion data for my payroll system, and Blue Vertigo is working on homework...something about 'Ten Days with Diaper Rash'......(the aforementioned 'Diaper Rash' being a fictional name for a band......with which he is planning a fictional independent tour.....etc etc. as a class assignment).
We're both working hard to get things done. It doesn't help that my wireless web has had some 'connectivity' issues. I had to call Zen over to help us out. I won't go into details....but his declaration of the problem consisted of, 'That m*(#$%#$^$%^&$% piece of C*$(*#^(*#^$(@*#" .....but ultimately ended with Zen being crowned King Geek once again.
Blue Vertigo hates my guts right now. From what I can gather - - - he's not as much of a fan of flip-flop shopping as I had hoped.
At 9:00am, Blue Vertigo and I were conquering the monetary abyss that is Wal-Mart. I needed some necessities...including Diet Coke, baby oil gel (have to have smooth skin this summer) and 25 watt light bulbs (no thanks to Vic...who kept promising to supply some for me.)
Of course, we happen upon the flip-flop aisle. I want flip-flops. No, I NEED flip-flops.
Correction, We ARE NOT walking out of the store until BOTH Blue Vertigo and I have flip-flops.
(As an aside, ladies....I am pretty sure Blue Vertigo is now searching for a new girlfriend. Applications will be accepted over at his blog.)
I got a cute little pair of plain blue ones.....and Blue Vertigo (the risk-taker he is) ended up with a pair that looked exactly like the pair he wore into the store. Ponder that, my chickadees. Does he have a fear of the unknown? The inability to try something new? Does he have an unnatural attraction to that particular style? Is it an issue from childhood? I think I need to talk to his mother about this flip-flop issue.
Well....ladies and gents...it is 2:58.....I am gonna get back to work...and Blue Vertigo is, too. Otherwise, he has to stop mooching off of my wireless connection and go home!
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
Whabadoohuh?
I don't often blog about anything to do with work...but this is just too hilarious to pass up.
Today, a coworker in a management position came into my office and casually mentioned that one of our employees (in another location) was rather upset with me because said employee had called me three weeks before and I had never returned that person's call.
I was rather puzzled. I am pretty good at returning calls - - even if it takes me a day to get around to all of them. I went back through my mind, searched the recesses of my brain, and came to the conclusion that said employee's message had never gotten to me.
This bugged me, BIG TIME. I hate it if an employee feels like I have 'failed' them in any way. Especially when that employee chooses to voice their disappointment to others instead of taking it up with me.
After my coworker left the office...I picked up the phone and called the employee - - who is located at one of our branches in another part of the state. The employee came to the phone.....and I explained that I had heard that the employee was upset with me for not returning the call. I stated that I had simply not gotten a message and wanted to know if there was anything I could do to help the employee out.
The answer?
"Yeah...I called.....but I didn't feel like leaving a message."
I love my employees - - but my phone doesn't have a caller ID log...and, however talented I may be in many areas of my life...mind-reading is not one of my gifts.
You can't win for losing.
Today, a coworker in a management position came into my office and casually mentioned that one of our employees (in another location) was rather upset with me because said employee had called me three weeks before and I had never returned that person's call.
I was rather puzzled. I am pretty good at returning calls - - even if it takes me a day to get around to all of them. I went back through my mind, searched the recesses of my brain, and came to the conclusion that said employee's message had never gotten to me.
This bugged me, BIG TIME. I hate it if an employee feels like I have 'failed' them in any way. Especially when that employee chooses to voice their disappointment to others instead of taking it up with me.
After my coworker left the office...I picked up the phone and called the employee - - who is located at one of our branches in another part of the state. The employee came to the phone.....and I explained that I had heard that the employee was upset with me for not returning the call. I stated that I had simply not gotten a message and wanted to know if there was anything I could do to help the employee out.
The answer?
"Yeah...I called.....but I didn't feel like leaving a message."
I love my employees - - but my phone doesn't have a caller ID log...and, however talented I may be in many areas of my life...mind-reading is not one of my gifts.
You can't win for losing.
Update
CR is home from the hospital....she is resting comfortably.
GW is home from the hospital, too. They let her out today! And, the baby is doing fine. Turns out, the 'mass' they discovered in her side was a very, very infected appendix.
My grandmother is also home.
Thank you so much for the prayers for these three special ladies.
GW is home from the hospital, too. They let her out today! And, the baby is doing fine. Turns out, the 'mass' they discovered in her side was a very, very infected appendix.
My grandmother is also home.
Thank you so much for the prayers for these three special ladies.
BRRRRRRR....
Did someone forget to tell Mother Nature it's MAY?
It was 50 degrees when I rolled out of bed this morning. I was not amused. And I feel truly sorry for my Canadian friend Linds. She asked me 'So, what's the weather like down there this time of year?'
Foolishly, I told her, 'Oh, it should be in the low 80s.' I should be flogged senseless for omitting the standard Texas catch-phrase....'but hang around for five minutes...it'll change'.
Good gosh, let's hope she packed some warm clothes....or can borrow some from Dev.
Right now, I am taking a break from doing actual WORK work, and am letting my mind unwind by blogging and listening to some acoustic Alanis Morissette. More specifically, I am trying to get rid of the 'Head Over Feet' earworm that has been pestering me for about a week now.
A lot of my life is mirroring that 'old' song right now. Been teetering on the edge of something...with fear holding me back. But someone isn't content with leaving it at that. That person is reiterating and reiterating his stance. He is a part of almost every aspect of my life.....he WANTS to be there. Reassurance, reinforcement, realization. And, it's amazing. Wow, it is a little too much for me to go into right now. And, I really don't want to go into it. It's private....it's not for public consumption. There are just some things a girl needs to keep to herself. It's almost like all of it is contained in a fragile bubble....an globe of iridescence.....thoughts and emotions. I want to protect this feeling as long as I can.......it's not as special when you pour everything out for everyone else to see and share. That time will come.
I am being selfish. This contemplation is mine......and his.
It was 50 degrees when I rolled out of bed this morning. I was not amused. And I feel truly sorry for my Canadian friend Linds. She asked me 'So, what's the weather like down there this time of year?'
Foolishly, I told her, 'Oh, it should be in the low 80s.' I should be flogged senseless for omitting the standard Texas catch-phrase....'but hang around for five minutes...it'll change'.
Good gosh, let's hope she packed some warm clothes....or can borrow some from Dev.
Right now, I am taking a break from doing actual WORK work, and am letting my mind unwind by blogging and listening to some acoustic Alanis Morissette. More specifically, I am trying to get rid of the 'Head Over Feet' earworm that has been pestering me for about a week now.
A lot of my life is mirroring that 'old' song right now. Been teetering on the edge of something...with fear holding me back. But someone isn't content with leaving it at that. That person is reiterating and reiterating his stance. He is a part of almost every aspect of my life.....he WANTS to be there. Reassurance, reinforcement, realization. And, it's amazing. Wow, it is a little too much for me to go into right now. And, I really don't want to go into it. It's private....it's not for public consumption. There are just some things a girl needs to keep to herself. It's almost like all of it is contained in a fragile bubble....an globe of iridescence.....thoughts and emotions. I want to protect this feeling as long as I can.......it's not as special when you pour everything out for everyone else to see and share. That time will come.
I am being selfish. This contemplation is mine......and his.
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
......the dark side......
Heh.....the blogging world has claimed another 'victim'. Blue Vertigo is now broadcasting his musings over at Tips for Nosedive Avoidance.
I feel like quite the queen of encouragement....um, enablement?
I feel like quite the queen of encouragement....um, enablement?
Monday, May 02, 2005
Not the best news on earth....
You know....you can be having a very, very busy day......and it can be good.
Then, you get hit with bits and pieces of bad news. Not bad for me, personally, because I am not going through physical pain...but I feel badly for the people affected.
My grandmother is in the hospital. Seems I am the last to know things like this. She has had a pacemaker put in....but everything seems to be going well and she should be home soon. Please say a few prayers for my Memama......because she's a wonderful, wonderful grandma and I want her to heal quickly and get back into her Memama ways.
My friend CR from Abilene is in the hospital. She had emergency surgery on Thursday...surgery that is related to some prior surgeries she has had. Today is the first day she has been coherent enough to talk to people...and we had a good conversation. She's a little down - - she's upset that the surgical scars that were fading have now been restored to their brand-new, right after surgery glory. Pray for quick healing for her...she needs a pick-me-up. Pray for the special person really close to her to hurry up and visit her soon.
My friend GW ended up in the ER late last week in excruciating pain......and now she's in the hospital in Abilene. A call to her hospital room about an hour ago was answered by her mother. GW is in surgery herself. The kicker is - GW is about 12 weeks pregnant, and I am not sure how this surgery is going to affect her unborn child. I could be that there is no viable way in which to correct the problem while protecting the life of the child. Prayers for her are requested, also.
And, while it may seem trifle to some.....TheWiredMonkey has also been hit with some terrible news. His precious "Millie" cat passed away today. Now, she was quite old, and had lived a full life...but that is of little comfort to him now. "Millie" and I had a very spotty track record in the friendship department - - but I loved her just the same. She was a beautiful cat, and adored TWM as much as a cat can adore anyone. So, prayers for him as he says goodbye to her.
I am not gonna post about my weekend....or other things going on. Instead, I'm gonna take some time to say a few heartfelt prayers and send some healing mojo to the people I love.
Then, you get hit with bits and pieces of bad news. Not bad for me, personally, because I am not going through physical pain...but I feel badly for the people affected.
My grandmother is in the hospital. Seems I am the last to know things like this. She has had a pacemaker put in....but everything seems to be going well and she should be home soon. Please say a few prayers for my Memama......because she's a wonderful, wonderful grandma and I want her to heal quickly and get back into her Memama ways.
My friend CR from Abilene is in the hospital. She had emergency surgery on Thursday...surgery that is related to some prior surgeries she has had. Today is the first day she has been coherent enough to talk to people...and we had a good conversation. She's a little down - - she's upset that the surgical scars that were fading have now been restored to their brand-new, right after surgery glory. Pray for quick healing for her...she needs a pick-me-up. Pray for the special person really close to her to hurry up and visit her soon.
My friend GW ended up in the ER late last week in excruciating pain......and now she's in the hospital in Abilene. A call to her hospital room about an hour ago was answered by her mother. GW is in surgery herself. The kicker is - GW is about 12 weeks pregnant, and I am not sure how this surgery is going to affect her unborn child. I could be that there is no viable way in which to correct the problem while protecting the life of the child. Prayers for her are requested, also.
And, while it may seem trifle to some.....TheWiredMonkey has also been hit with some terrible news. His precious "Millie" cat passed away today. Now, she was quite old, and had lived a full life...but that is of little comfort to him now. "Millie" and I had a very spotty track record in the friendship department - - but I loved her just the same. She was a beautiful cat, and adored TWM as much as a cat can adore anyone. So, prayers for him as he says goodbye to her.
I am not gonna post about my weekend....or other things going on. Instead, I'm gonna take some time to say a few heartfelt prayers and send some healing mojo to the people I love.
Friday, April 29, 2005
Take Me...I'm Yours........
If you will buy me tickets to this concert and take me to it that night.
Two for the Price of One
Last night was the Bruce Springsteen show at Nokia Theatre in Grand Prairie.
Yeah.
That's about all I can say - since I am still letting the performance sink in. Now, remember, I have NEVER before seen Bruce live......with or without the E Street Band. Needless to say, I am thrilled I got to see him solo first.
Just to let you see what transpired....I have included his setlist:
Reason to Believe (great beginning - keeping the beat and emphasis by stomping his foot...the purposeful distortion of the bluesy-sounding song made it difficult to understand every word)
Devils and Dust
Youngstown
Lonesome Day
Long Time Comin
Silver Palomino
For You
Two Faces
Part Man, Part Monkey
Galveston Bay
Maria's Bed
Reno
Real World (he took this request straight from a guy in the audience)
My Hometown (my favorite Bruce song...backed only by a piano last night...wow, I got chills)
The Rising (I actually liked this version better than his original)
Further On
Jesus Was an Only Son
Leah
The Hitter
Matamoros Banks
Encore
Oklahoma Hills (with Jimmy LaFave, singer/songwriter from Austin)
Waitin' on a Sunny Day
My Best Was Never Good Enough
The Promised Land
As you can see, it was a great set. I kept looking over at Blue Vertigo to see if he was enjoying himself. I figured, as much as Blue Vertigo plays, he would have an appreciation for the way Bruce plays guitar....but I didn't know just how much. His eyes were usually glued to The Boss or to one of the two large monitors when they focused in on Bruce's hands. He was picking apart the chords and hand placement.....intent on every sound emanating from the guitar. I know he was...I could see the little gears turning in his mind. *shakes head* Guitar players. Sheesh.
We had excellent seats, in the second section, second row...slightly right of center stage. If you didn't already know - - I won them. I didn't know Bruce was coming to play until the day I called in.....and I was pretty excited to win.......because I definitely couldn't have gotten seats this good by begging and pleading for help from the online ticket-vending giants at ticketmaster.com
Not only was the concert GREAT....but we got a small, unexpected bonus. After we got settled in our seats....and Blue Vertigo began 'people watching'......a man walked up to the railing directly in front of us (directly=approximately three and a half to four feet from my living, breathing body).
I glanced...did a double-take.....and then proceded to stare with the most idiotic grin. I kept whispering to Blue Vertigo, "Hey...look...it's (insert name of individual in question here)."
Blue Vertigo was oblivious to me....watching everything else around us.
About 30 seconds later, he looks at me and says, 'Hey, that guy kinda looks like (insert name of individual in question here)."
To which I roll my eyes and emphatically state, "It IS (insert name of individual in question here)."
The mystery man?
PAT GREEN
Yup. I got to grin like the fool ol' girl I am at that man for about four minutes as he carried on a very animated conversation with the guy sitting next to us, culminating with Pat doing little devil horns on either side of his head while discussing what I can only guess would be his behavior later in the evening. I was dumbfounded. I am kicking myself today. Big surprise. I did nothing more than smile and nod a hello at the man.
Unfortunate Serendipity is a wuss. And shy. Thank you very much.
Yeah.
That's about all I can say - since I am still letting the performance sink in. Now, remember, I have NEVER before seen Bruce live......with or without the E Street Band. Needless to say, I am thrilled I got to see him solo first.
Just to let you see what transpired....I have included his setlist:
Reason to Believe (great beginning - keeping the beat and emphasis by stomping his foot...the purposeful distortion of the bluesy-sounding song made it difficult to understand every word)
Devils and Dust
Youngstown
Lonesome Day
Long Time Comin
Silver Palomino
For You
Two Faces
Part Man, Part Monkey
Galveston Bay
Maria's Bed
Reno
Real World (he took this request straight from a guy in the audience)
My Hometown (my favorite Bruce song...backed only by a piano last night...wow, I got chills)
The Rising (I actually liked this version better than his original)
Further On
Jesus Was an Only Son
Leah
The Hitter
Matamoros Banks
Encore
Oklahoma Hills (with Jimmy LaFave, singer/songwriter from Austin)
Waitin' on a Sunny Day
My Best Was Never Good Enough
The Promised Land
As you can see, it was a great set. I kept looking over at Blue Vertigo to see if he was enjoying himself. I figured, as much as Blue Vertigo plays, he would have an appreciation for the way Bruce plays guitar....but I didn't know just how much. His eyes were usually glued to The Boss or to one of the two large monitors when they focused in on Bruce's hands. He was picking apart the chords and hand placement.....intent on every sound emanating from the guitar. I know he was...I could see the little gears turning in his mind. *shakes head* Guitar players. Sheesh.
We had excellent seats, in the second section, second row...slightly right of center stage. If you didn't already know - - I won them. I didn't know Bruce was coming to play until the day I called in.....and I was pretty excited to win.......because I definitely couldn't have gotten seats this good by begging and pleading for help from the online ticket-vending giants at ticketmaster.com
Not only was the concert GREAT....but we got a small, unexpected bonus. After we got settled in our seats....and Blue Vertigo began 'people watching'......a man walked up to the railing directly in front of us (directly=approximately three and a half to four feet from my living, breathing body).
I glanced...did a double-take.....and then proceded to stare with the most idiotic grin. I kept whispering to Blue Vertigo, "Hey...look...it's (insert name of individual in question here)."
Blue Vertigo was oblivious to me....watching everything else around us.
About 30 seconds later, he looks at me and says, 'Hey, that guy kinda looks like (insert name of individual in question here)."
To which I roll my eyes and emphatically state, "It IS (insert name of individual in question here)."
The mystery man?
PAT GREEN
Yup. I got to grin like the fool ol' girl I am at that man for about four minutes as he carried on a very animated conversation with the guy sitting next to us, culminating with Pat doing little devil horns on either side of his head while discussing what I can only guess would be his behavior later in the evening. I was dumbfounded. I am kicking myself today. Big surprise. I did nothing more than smile and nod a hello at the man.
Unfortunate Serendipity is a wuss. And shy. Thank you very much.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
The Incredibly Tired Unfortunate Serendipity
Poor Blue Vertigo has got to be fed up with me.
TWO nights in a row I have tried to sit down and watch 'The Incredibles' with him...and have fallen fast asleep. Don't get me wrong - - - the movie is adorable. But when the urge to sleep strikes, I am powerless.
I think I am a closet narcoleptic. And poor Blue Vertigo has been stuck watching that thing over and over...with me making only fifteen minutes of it one night...and less than an hour the next. He'll be quoting the entire movie for me, word for word, by the time I can finish the darn thing.
TWO nights in a row I have tried to sit down and watch 'The Incredibles' with him...and have fallen fast asleep. Don't get me wrong - - - the movie is adorable. But when the urge to sleep strikes, I am powerless.
I think I am a closet narcoleptic. And poor Blue Vertigo has been stuck watching that thing over and over...with me making only fifteen minutes of it one night...and less than an hour the next. He'll be quoting the entire movie for me, word for word, by the time I can finish the darn thing.
Monday, April 25, 2005
Devils and Dust
Thursday night, I will be at NOKIA Theatre at Grand Prairie to experience Bruce Springsteen's solo acoustic tour.
Yeah - I'm pretty excited.
Yeah - I'm pretty excited.
Who's Gonna Drive You Home.......?
The drive home to visit the parental units was pretty dreadful. I have had a lot on my mind, with mom having been sick and dad so worried about the things we are working on. I practically chewed my fingernails off on the way home and during the course of the weekend.
By the time I headed back on Sunday - it was 5pm. Ugh. Four hours in the car - with two puppies. They actually behaved, a little.
It was so nice to make it home, though. To walk back into my apartment (which has been designated a disaster area - - it's so messy)...well, that wasn't fun.
I don't know what it is about the drive - - but I dread it. Thank goodness for good music. I relaxed to some Explosions in the Sky....and bounced along to some Elvis T. Busboy. Then I hit Kean 105 territory and turned back into a country-music lovin' West Texas farmgirl....it's inevitable.
Spent some time with Blue Vertigo on Sunday night. Didn't have the energy to do much - - he popped a movie into his DVD player and we promptly ignored it as we talked through our weekends and discussed the drama that had ensued while he was ensconced here in the metroplex and while I was tooling around West Texas. I just haven't felt up to going out.
By the time I headed back on Sunday - it was 5pm. Ugh. Four hours in the car - with two puppies. They actually behaved, a little.
It was so nice to make it home, though. To walk back into my apartment (which has been designated a disaster area - - it's so messy)...well, that wasn't fun.
I don't know what it is about the drive - - but I dread it. Thank goodness for good music. I relaxed to some Explosions in the Sky....and bounced along to some Elvis T. Busboy. Then I hit Kean 105 territory and turned back into a country-music lovin' West Texas farmgirl....it's inevitable.
Spent some time with Blue Vertigo on Sunday night. Didn't have the energy to do much - - he popped a movie into his DVD player and we promptly ignored it as we talked through our weekends and discussed the drama that had ensued while he was ensconced here in the metroplex and while I was tooling around West Texas. I just haven't felt up to going out.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
'To see a world in a grain of sand, And heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
And eternity in an hour.'
First published by Rossetti in Gilchrist's Life of William Blake (1863)
-William Blake, Auguries of Innocence
These arrived in my office today - - and I was taken by surprise. Enthralled and uplifted by the beauty of these flowers, my day was WONDERFUL.
Seems Blue Vertigo wanted to surprise me, and surprise me he did. I am sure he will forgive me stealing his quote....for I feel it fits here.
Forgive the bad hair day - and just enjoy the pics!
MY NEW FLOWERS - COURTESY OF BLUE VERTIGO
A gorgeous addition to my desk - much prettier than the files it replaced.
A beautiful closeup of a stargazer lily from the arrangement...one of Blue Vertigo's personal favorite flowers.
I was having a good day. I was expecting a surprise - - Blue Vertigo had warned me about that. But, honestly - I was expecting my surprise to be Blue Vertigo. He had made mention of trying to take a long lunch at some point to come see me. Today, though, Murphy's law went into overdrive in his life. Poor Blue Vertigo. So, I reasoned, no lunch with him today. I was a little disappointed, but was hopeful his day would improve.
I was in the warehouse, procuring my drink of choice (Diet Coke), when the Office Manager for the Dallas Branch asked me, 'Is it your birthday?' I turned to see a delivery person holding this huge, gorgeous arrangement. I was rendered completely speechless.....which, for me, is totally unheard of (just ask anyone who knows me).
I carried them back to my desk and stared in amazement. I couldn't even concentrate on work for the longest time, as I absorbed the fragrance and the color.
Stargazer lilies, roses, carnations and bells of Ireland......the combination was enough to put me into sensory overload. I think Blue Vertigo had that in mind. Wonderful boy.....wonderful, wonderful boy.
And eternity in an hour.'
First published by Rossetti in Gilchrist's Life of William Blake (1863)
-William Blake, Auguries of Innocence
These arrived in my office today - - and I was taken by surprise. Enthralled and uplifted by the beauty of these flowers, my day was WONDERFUL.
Seems Blue Vertigo wanted to surprise me, and surprise me he did. I am sure he will forgive me stealing his quote....for I feel it fits here.
Forgive the bad hair day - and just enjoy the pics!
MY NEW FLOWERS - COURTESY OF BLUE VERTIGO
A gorgeous addition to my desk - much prettier than the files it replaced.
A beautiful closeup of a stargazer lily from the arrangement...one of Blue Vertigo's personal favorite flowers.
I was having a good day. I was expecting a surprise - - Blue Vertigo had warned me about that. But, honestly - I was expecting my surprise to be Blue Vertigo. He had made mention of trying to take a long lunch at some point to come see me. Today, though, Murphy's law went into overdrive in his life. Poor Blue Vertigo. So, I reasoned, no lunch with him today. I was a little disappointed, but was hopeful his day would improve.
I was in the warehouse, procuring my drink of choice (Diet Coke), when the Office Manager for the Dallas Branch asked me, 'Is it your birthday?' I turned to see a delivery person holding this huge, gorgeous arrangement. I was rendered completely speechless.....which, for me, is totally unheard of (just ask anyone who knows me).
I carried them back to my desk and stared in amazement. I couldn't even concentrate on work for the longest time, as I absorbed the fragrance and the color.
Stargazer lilies, roses, carnations and bells of Ireland......the combination was enough to put me into sensory overload. I think Blue Vertigo had that in mind. Wonderful boy.....wonderful, wonderful boy.
Sunday, April 17, 2005
I'm feeling like a Monday, but someday I'll be Saturday Night.....
Saturday was a miasma of lethargy, interrupted by brief moments of pure energy.
The dogs went to the vet. Both of them. At the same time. At Banfield - which is inside PETSMART. They were way too into exploring. Now I know how a mom feels with two toddlers inside Toys R Us.
I am still fighting back the urge to request social security numbers for my dogs and claim 'em on my tax returns as dependents - - for how much their vet care set me back.
Vet Tech: "Miss Freeman, the initial visit today, plus testing and vaccines, will be approximately $318.00 for each of the dogs."
Me: "Can't you just charge by the pound?"
Vet Tech: "Will that be cash, check or charge?"
(Some people just have no sense of humor.)
Luckily, I thought ahead and enrolled them in a pet-wellness program, that covers examinations, phone consultations, vaccines, etc etc. So....what could have been a coronary-inducing event was rendered unnecessary - and I am almost over the heart palpitations. I still dropped over $250.00 at the vet alone...on set-up fees and the first month's premium. Still, I was thinking that bearing children couldn't be much more expensive....
Then, of course, we had to go play in the pet utopia that is PETSMART. We have matching collars now (the dogs...not me....I am not into collars), color-coordinated leashes, a new self-waterer, a really really nice stainless steel food dish, new treats and a huge stuffed camel. You heard me. I let 'em pick out a toy - - and they went ape over this hilarious stuffed camel with really long legs that rattle. Diva grabs one leg....Topher latches onto another....and Toph gets transported rather rudely across the floor. Add on various and sundry other puppy related stuff...and I walked out of there an additional $200.00 lighter in the wallet area.
A nap was in the plans.....I got the heathen children settled at home, promised Blue Vertigo I'd give him a call around 5:00, and I said goodbye to the world. Until the phone rang. I was grumpy - - it was Blue Vertigo. Seems I had slept through my 5:00pm wake-up....and it was closing in on 7:30pm. I felt like a heel.
I wasn't feeling up to a big night out, so we had a low-key evening in, just hanging out.
Here's my recipe for the perfect Saturday night:
The dogs went to the vet. Both of them. At the same time. At Banfield - which is inside PETSMART. They were way too into exploring. Now I know how a mom feels with two toddlers inside Toys R Us.
I am still fighting back the urge to request social security numbers for my dogs and claim 'em on my tax returns as dependents - - for how much their vet care set me back.
Vet Tech: "Miss Freeman, the initial visit today, plus testing and vaccines, will be approximately $318.00 for each of the dogs."
Me: "Can't you just charge by the pound?"
Vet Tech: "Will that be cash, check or charge?"
(Some people just have no sense of humor.)
Luckily, I thought ahead and enrolled them in a pet-wellness program, that covers examinations, phone consultations, vaccines, etc etc. So....what could have been a coronary-inducing event was rendered unnecessary - and I am almost over the heart palpitations. I still dropped over $250.00 at the vet alone...on set-up fees and the first month's premium. Still, I was thinking that bearing children couldn't be much more expensive....
Then, of course, we had to go play in the pet utopia that is PETSMART. We have matching collars now (the dogs...not me....I am not into collars), color-coordinated leashes, a new self-waterer, a really really nice stainless steel food dish, new treats and a huge stuffed camel. You heard me. I let 'em pick out a toy - - and they went ape over this hilarious stuffed camel with really long legs that rattle. Diva grabs one leg....Topher latches onto another....and Toph gets transported rather rudely across the floor. Add on various and sundry other puppy related stuff...and I walked out of there an additional $200.00 lighter in the wallet area.
A nap was in the plans.....I got the heathen children settled at home, promised Blue Vertigo I'd give him a call around 5:00, and I said goodbye to the world. Until the phone rang. I was grumpy - - it was Blue Vertigo. Seems I had slept through my 5:00pm wake-up....and it was closing in on 7:30pm. I felt like a heel.
I wasn't feeling up to a big night out, so we had a low-key evening in, just hanging out.
Here's my recipe for the perfect Saturday night:
- Good Company
- A couple of Freebirds burritos
- 'SpaceBalls'
- and, then at 2:00am 'The Three Amigos'
I know it sounds like I was a bump on a log. I am not ashamed of it. I told Blue Vertigo that I was feeling a little depressed - and I don't know why. I have no reason to be depressed. I think the evening in did me quite a bit of good....because I didn't have to put on the "happy Unfortunate Serendipity' mentality and be charming. Instead, I curled up on the couch, inhaled a Freebirds burrito, and belched and acted like a four year old. Yep, that's me.
Friday, April 15, 2005
Oh, Joaquin
For those of you who are wondering what 'undisclosed treatment center' Joaquin Phoenix checked himself into two weeks ago........here you go:
It's my house.
No calls, please. And, definitely no visitors. We're working on his issues together.
Villa d'Freeman Treatment Program will be issuing press releases as news is warranted.
It's my house.
No calls, please. And, definitely no visitors. We're working on his issues together.
Villa d'Freeman Treatment Program will be issuing press releases as news is warranted.
My 8 1/2 week old.....16lb 'baby'
She's definitely a momma's girl. Diva and Topher and I went up to Addison to play at Blue Vertigo's house. While there, his buddies J and N showed up with their beagle, Bailey. Diva wasn't too sure about the beagle...she preferred to stay in my lap. I hate to break it to her...but in a couple of months, she's gonna have to relinquish the 'lapdog' title.
After this pic above was taken, she settled in and fell asleep - flat on her back...right in my lap. It was adorable....except for my leg falling asleep under her weight. I kept fussing with her, thinking she'd wake up....no dice. That dog was out.
Above is Diva playing couch Goddess. I think she was watching Blue Vertigo and Topher play on the floor......
And, finally, above is a pic of my traitor-dog....she's getting some Blue Vertigo love. He's nicknamed her 'Ghetto-booty'.....and based on the size of her posterior, the moniker is warranted. Poor little Toph is stuck with the nickname 'Red-butt'....and it fits on a number of levels, including attitudinal ones. I have now dubbed them 'The Mocha Wonder' and the 'Cinnamon Flash'.
So - at least I finally have multiple pics of both of my babies on here. Just be glad I don't have a human child.
KK's Getting Married!!!!!!!!!
KK's getting married.
She's a dear, sweet friend who functioned as my assistant while I was imprisoned in the Correctional Unit in Abilene - - and she is getting married!!!!!!
(Take the first letter of each of the bolded words and rearrange them to get my former place of employment. And, just kidding about what I call it....I think. Work there for five years, then let me know what you think! haha)
Anyway - blessings to her, lucky little girl. You should see the size of the rock she's sporting. Now, I know that size isn't everything...but diamonds are a girl's best friend. Plus, she's been waiting for this one for a while. She is the most patient and well-grounded person I know. She never got into the 'gotta get married' mentality that turns most women into pathetic shrews.
Her honey just happened to fall under her spell...naturally!!!!
She is the bomb. And I adore her.
Congrats KK.
She's a dear, sweet friend who functioned as my assistant while I was imprisoned in the Correctional Unit in Abilene - - and she is getting married!!!!!!
(Take the first letter of each of the bolded words and rearrange them to get my former place of employment. And, just kidding about what I call it....I think. Work there for five years, then let me know what you think! haha)
Anyway - blessings to her, lucky little girl. You should see the size of the rock she's sporting. Now, I know that size isn't everything...but diamonds are a girl's best friend. Plus, she's been waiting for this one for a while. She is the most patient and well-grounded person I know. She never got into the 'gotta get married' mentality that turns most women into pathetic shrews.
Her honey just happened to fall under her spell...naturally!!!!
She is the bomb. And I adore her.
Congrats KK.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Incoherent
Supposedly, Blue Vertigo called me last night. I say 'supposedly' because I don't recall the conversation. But, Blue Vertigo's number shows up on the caller ID and is backed up further by the 'Duration' column reading 00:03:00.
Do I recall any of this three minute conversation? Nyet. Blue Vertigo's mum on the topic of conversation. He said was pretty out of it.
Honestly, I have always been aware of my inability to wake up and actually hold a phone conversation.....If you ever need sensitive or personal data about me - all you have to do is pick up the phone and call me in the middle of the night.
Want my Social Security Number? You got it. My credit card numbers, expiration dates and cute little three digit security codes? They're all yours. How about my bank account number? Bingo, buddy. Unbeknownst to 'me' my subconscious will do anything to get rid of an interruption. Plus, I think the 'filter' between my mind and my mouth has a curfew....somewhere around midnight, it seems.
So, Blue Vertigo...if I gave you my bank account number.....will you just run by and make a deposit? The balance is looking a little anemic today.
Do I recall any of this three minute conversation? Nyet. Blue Vertigo's mum on the topic of conversation. He said was pretty out of it.
Honestly, I have always been aware of my inability to wake up and actually hold a phone conversation.....If you ever need sensitive or personal data about me - all you have to do is pick up the phone and call me in the middle of the night.
Want my Social Security Number? You got it. My credit card numbers, expiration dates and cute little three digit security codes? They're all yours. How about my bank account number? Bingo, buddy. Unbeknownst to 'me' my subconscious will do anything to get rid of an interruption. Plus, I think the 'filter' between my mind and my mouth has a curfew....somewhere around midnight, it seems.
So, Blue Vertigo...if I gave you my bank account number.....will you just run by and make a deposit? The balance is looking a little anemic today.
Monday, April 11, 2005
My two favorite men on earth - - my nephews!
They came into town yesterday with my sis and and their mom...and we just had to take them to Hooters. Bad Aunt that I am, I got them Hooters shirts and Hooters giftcards for Christmas.
It was soooooo worth it to see them blush at the fuss the girls made over them!
Operation 'Kick Greg Kendall-Ball Out of the Country'
Ok...not really.
GKB and his wife are wonderful, wonderful people who are undertaking a survey trip to Rwanda this summer. They are smart, very dedicated individuals wishing to make God's work their work outside the US. GKB can see the light at the end of the educational institution tunnel...and he and the Missus are heart and soul devoted to God's work.
Drop in on him here and consider either:
GKB and his wife are wonderful, wonderful people who are undertaking a survey trip to Rwanda this summer. They are smart, very dedicated individuals wishing to make God's work their work outside the US. GKB can see the light at the end of the educational institution tunnel...and he and the Missus are heart and soul devoted to God's work.
Drop in on him here and consider either:
- Donating what you can through the Paypal account set up on his site
- Passing along Greg's request to your Church family
- Praying for the success of this endeavor
I can personally vouch for GKB and his absolute saint of a wife (what else could she be, living with a self-proclaimed 'Pudding Afficionado').
All kidding aside, I want to see these two realize their dream - and I urge you all to help out in any way possible - - Rwanda needs the Kendall-Balls.
Saturday, April 09, 2005
Happy Birthday to My Little Sister
I have to stop saying 'My Baby Sister'...because she hates that. I can't find a simple pic of her alone. Loser, she hates pics almost as much as I do.
So, here is one of her, August 12, 2000. She's on the far left. Yup. That was my wedding. The other chicas in the pic are (left to right):
- My best friend Laura
- My cousin Amy
- My dear little Ms. Kaylee - the flowergirl.
SO, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JONI!
And, yes, if you must know...she's 25, college-educated and owns her own business, boys.
Godiva is my favorite kind of chocolate.
....and, for that matter...my favorite lab, too.
She's gorgeous. I wish I could get a good pic of her...but she chooses a Tasmanian-devilish existence. All pics I get are but a mocha-blur across the screen. Ah, well....maybe we are a little camera-shy.
She's still stand-offish with people. My complex has an (over)abundance of children and pre-teens who are in love with my dogs. Little Diva has yet to grow accustomed to them, as a whole.
If only one or two are about, she will cavort with them, rocking back on her haunches and pouncing with gleeful puppy abandon, punctuated with a shrill little bark and some playful growling.
Once the group increases to three or four, though, she becomes momma's baby again. She races back to me and peers suspiciously from behind my ankles...her tail beating a rhythm alternating between excitement and uncertainty.
I don't mind her playing with the older ones. I do worry about the toddlers here - who pull her ears and poke unsuspecting fingers into her eyes and mouth. Diva is precious and sweet, however she is still an eight-week old puppy - and as such, I fear she might nip at one she considers an annoyance. (I, personally, consider just about every one of them a pain.)
We just got back inside from an extended playtime out in the grass. Both acted like the puppies they truly are.....racing one another and tripping over their little uncoordinated selves. It truly is one of the best forms of entertainment.
Diva is actually learning to sit on command. Maybe I am just imagining it. But, I would like to think she's got a few brain cells. I know she is from hunting stock. She noses around outside until she catches a scent that interests her....then BAM! she goes into classic pointing pose. It's hilarious to see this rotund ball of fluff clumsily trying to point. Maybe I can try to get her to scent out a good place for her 'brother' to go potty...OUTSIDE of my house.
She's gorgeous. I wish I could get a good pic of her...but she chooses a Tasmanian-devilish existence. All pics I get are but a mocha-blur across the screen. Ah, well....maybe we are a little camera-shy.
She's still stand-offish with people. My complex has an (over)abundance of children and pre-teens who are in love with my dogs. Little Diva has yet to grow accustomed to them, as a whole.
If only one or two are about, she will cavort with them, rocking back on her haunches and pouncing with gleeful puppy abandon, punctuated with a shrill little bark and some playful growling.
Once the group increases to three or four, though, she becomes momma's baby again. She races back to me and peers suspiciously from behind my ankles...her tail beating a rhythm alternating between excitement and uncertainty.
I don't mind her playing with the older ones. I do worry about the toddlers here - who pull her ears and poke unsuspecting fingers into her eyes and mouth. Diva is precious and sweet, however she is still an eight-week old puppy - and as such, I fear she might nip at one she considers an annoyance. (I, personally, consider just about every one of them a pain.)
We just got back inside from an extended playtime out in the grass. Both acted like the puppies they truly are.....racing one another and tripping over their little uncoordinated selves. It truly is one of the best forms of entertainment.
Diva is actually learning to sit on command. Maybe I am just imagining it. But, I would like to think she's got a few brain cells. I know she is from hunting stock. She noses around outside until she catches a scent that interests her....then BAM! she goes into classic pointing pose. It's hilarious to see this rotund ball of fluff clumsily trying to point. Maybe I can try to get her to scent out a good place for her 'brother' to go potty...OUTSIDE of my house.
Friday, April 08, 2005
100 Things....(part III)
51. My favorite drink is Diet Coke. Drink the last one in the fridge and die, buddy.
52. I love squeezing lemon into my Dr. Pepper.
53. I have an affinity for big, clunky rings.
54. I hate makeup.
55. My eyesight is horrendous. Enough so that I am going to shell out the massive bucks to have wave-front guided custom lasik in August.
56. I love shoes. LOVE. Especially cute strappy sandals with little kitten heels.
57. My first word was 'Da da'.
58. My second word? 'Chocolate'.
59. My favorite book is.......nah, I can't pick one.
60. I have always wanted to learn to play guitar.
61. My father and mother are my heroes.
62. I love Bob the Tomato from VeggieTales.
63. Freebirds is my heroin.
64. I am addicted to candles from the Tyler Candle Company. Especially the 'Diva'...'Paris' and 'High Maintenance' fragrances.
65. Only one candle ever burns in my bedroom, though. 'Tuscan Herb' by Pier 1.
66. I collect Americana inspired decor - - but it makes me feel all kitschy and stuff.
67. I own a cowboy hat.
68. I refuse to own a pair of cowboy boots.
69. My best friend on earth is Laura - and I am so sad I had to leave her behind in Abilene.
70. I am, and forever will be, addicted to 'Friends'.
71. I like to quote from famous (and obscure) movies at inappropriate times.
72. I have a heck of a temper (duh).
73. I would do anything for my friends.
74. I am the speeding, fender-bender princess of Irving, Texas.
75. Don't tell the Irving PD...they already have it out for me.
52. I love squeezing lemon into my Dr. Pepper.
53. I have an affinity for big, clunky rings.
54. I hate makeup.
55. My eyesight is horrendous. Enough so that I am going to shell out the massive bucks to have wave-front guided custom lasik in August.
56. I love shoes. LOVE. Especially cute strappy sandals with little kitten heels.
57. My first word was 'Da da'.
58. My second word? 'Chocolate'.
59. My favorite book is.......nah, I can't pick one.
60. I have always wanted to learn to play guitar.
61. My father and mother are my heroes.
62. I love Bob the Tomato from VeggieTales.
63. Freebirds is my heroin.
64. I am addicted to candles from the Tyler Candle Company. Especially the 'Diva'...'Paris' and 'High Maintenance' fragrances.
65. Only one candle ever burns in my bedroom, though. 'Tuscan Herb' by Pier 1.
66. I collect Americana inspired decor - - but it makes me feel all kitschy and stuff.
67. I own a cowboy hat.
68. I refuse to own a pair of cowboy boots.
69. My best friend on earth is Laura - and I am so sad I had to leave her behind in Abilene.
70. I am, and forever will be, addicted to 'Friends'.
71. I like to quote from famous (and obscure) movies at inappropriate times.
72. I have a heck of a temper (duh).
73. I would do anything for my friends.
74. I am the speeding, fender-bender princess of Irving, Texas.
75. Don't tell the Irving PD...they already have it out for me.
One vehicle down.......
I may have sold my car.
Which one, you ask? Why, my Sebring.
To my baby sister.
And, happy birthday to my baby sis tomorrow - she'll be 25! And she says, "I don't WANT to be half of 50!"
My reply? SHUDDUP. Big sis here is almost 30. I don't want to hear it from the cute blonde little sis that she is upset over hitting the quarter-century mark.
Which one, you ask? Why, my Sebring.
To my baby sister.
And, happy birthday to my baby sis tomorrow - she'll be 25! And she says, "I don't WANT to be half of 50!"
My reply? SHUDDUP. Big sis here is almost 30. I don't want to hear it from the cute blonde little sis that she is upset over hitting the quarter-century mark.
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
100 things.....(part II)
26. My favorite color is sage green.
27. My favorite activity is sleeping....
28. .... followed closely by reading.
29. My favorite movie is actually a tie - between The Princess Bride and Very Bad Things. What can I say? I am a study in contradictions.
30. I worked in Congress in Washington D.C. for a summer when I was 17.
31. I am in love with Jeremy Piven,
32. or Joaquin Phoenix, depending upon my mood.
33. I am extremely close to my family. I talk to either my mom or my dad every day.
34. I have two nephews - demon children whom I adore.
35. I want a niece very very very very very badly.
36. I have been trying to bribe my siblings by promising my diamond engagement ring to the first one to give me a niece.
37. I am painfully shy - believe it or not.
38. I am horribly self-conscious.
39. I have an addiction to old Marilyn Monroe films.
40. My goal is to attend law school and mediate employee law and labor relations issues.
41. I am a hopeless romantic.
42. I am not sure if I will ever marry again. Or even if I want to marry again.
43. My idea of a perfect evening is cooking dinner for my friends and watching a ridiculous movie.
44. I want to take another vacation to Seattle.
45. I have naturally curly hair. Very, very curly.
46. I have a white 2004 Chrysler Sebring LXi convertible.
47. I also have a pewter colored 2002 Chevy Avalanche Z66.
48. I need to sell one - I just can't decide which one.
49. My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was four.
50. I took it up again two years ago, and my first project was a blanket I made and gave to my grandmother that Christmas. It was one of my proudest moments as a grandchild.
27. My favorite activity is sleeping....
28. .... followed closely by reading.
29. My favorite movie is actually a tie - between The Princess Bride and Very Bad Things. What can I say? I am a study in contradictions.
30. I worked in Congress in Washington D.C. for a summer when I was 17.
31. I am in love with Jeremy Piven,
32. or Joaquin Phoenix, depending upon my mood.
33. I am extremely close to my family. I talk to either my mom or my dad every day.
34. I have two nephews - demon children whom I adore.
35. I want a niece very very very very very badly.
36. I have been trying to bribe my siblings by promising my diamond engagement ring to the first one to give me a niece.
37. I am painfully shy - believe it or not.
38. I am horribly self-conscious.
39. I have an addiction to old Marilyn Monroe films.
40. My goal is to attend law school and mediate employee law and labor relations issues.
41. I am a hopeless romantic.
42. I am not sure if I will ever marry again. Or even if I want to marry again.
43. My idea of a perfect evening is cooking dinner for my friends and watching a ridiculous movie.
44. I want to take another vacation to Seattle.
45. I have naturally curly hair. Very, very curly.
46. I have a white 2004 Chrysler Sebring LXi convertible.
47. I also have a pewter colored 2002 Chevy Avalanche Z66.
48. I need to sell one - I just can't decide which one.
49. My grandmother taught me to crochet when I was four.
50. I took it up again two years ago, and my first project was a blanket I made and gave to my grandmother that Christmas. It was one of my proudest moments as a grandchild.
Jesus Loves Me
....this I know.......
....otherwise, how could I have gotten these adorable Guess by Marciano red satin sandals with a 2" heel and an adorable flat bow....
for $6.41?
Oh, eBay - how I adore you.
....otherwise, how could I have gotten these adorable Guess by Marciano red satin sandals with a 2" heel and an adorable flat bow....
for $6.41?
Oh, eBay - how I adore you.
On the way to San Angelo last weekend to pick up the new puppy, my numero uno canine baby was feeling especially insecure. He cried in the kennel cage...he cried on the passenger seat. He cried, cried cried and cried some more.
I finally pulled him into my lap...and ten minutes later, he had worked his way into this position and had settled into the slumber of the righteous (or at least he thinks he is righteous...I think he is a heathen).
Let's pray that the new puppy doesn't try this.
100 Things.....(part I)
A large number of my daily reads have the requisite '100 Things' post(s) somewhere on their blog....so I am gonna give it a go.
1. My middle name is K. Not Kay, or Kate...or even Katie. It is 'K'....one single letter of the alphabet.
2. I have an insane fear of heights. No Space Needle or Tower of the Americas for me.
3. Somehow, though, hurtling through the atmosphere in a rollercoaster doesn't bother me.
4. I have two tattoos.
5. I have seven piercings.
6. I have two parents who don't approve of anything in #4 or #5
7. I am divorced
8. I was married for four years and four days
9. I did all my own divorce paperwork and filed it....even though I wasn't the one wanting the divorce in the first place.
10. My ex husband and I are the best of friends now.
11. My high school mascot was the 'Plowboy'...no lie.
12. I graduated in a class of 31 seniors.
13. My hometown has less than 1,400 residents.
15. I am the original karaoke queen. 1977, eighteen months old, belting out Debbie Boone's "You Light Up My Life" while standing in a high chair clutching a spoon.
16. I have a brother who is only 11 months and 29 days younger than me. We're the 'same age' for two days.
17. I have another brother and a sister, also. All younger than me.
18. We are 29 (me), 28, 26 and 25.
19. I don't want children of my own.
20. I am the proud 'mother' of two puppies.
21. I am not a good disciplinarian - my puppies run the house.
22. I could live off of salads from Texas Land and Cattle and The Olive Garden.
23. As long as I had dark chocolate covered espresso beans to go along with it all.
24. My favorite perfume is L'eau d'Issey by Issey Miyake. Feel free to purchase a bottle for me at your convenience.....I'll even link to it for you
25. My favorite men's cologne is Dolce & Gabbana for men. Feel free to introduce me to a cute man wearing that at any time. I'll melt. It's rather humorous to watch.
Ok...that's the first quarter ..... I will percolate on the next 25 tidbits and get back to you, my little chicks.
1. My middle name is K. Not Kay, or Kate...or even Katie. It is 'K'....one single letter of the alphabet.
2. I have an insane fear of heights. No Space Needle or Tower of the Americas for me.
3. Somehow, though, hurtling through the atmosphere in a rollercoaster doesn't bother me.
4. I have two tattoos.
5. I have seven piercings.
6. I have two parents who don't approve of anything in #4 or #5
7. I am divorced
8. I was married for four years and four days
9. I did all my own divorce paperwork and filed it....even though I wasn't the one wanting the divorce in the first place.
10. My ex husband and I are the best of friends now.
11. My high school mascot was the 'Plowboy'...no lie.
12. I graduated in a class of 31 seniors.
13. My hometown has less than 1,400 residents.
15. I am the original karaoke queen. 1977, eighteen months old, belting out Debbie Boone's "You Light Up My Life" while standing in a high chair clutching a spoon.
16. I have a brother who is only 11 months and 29 days younger than me. We're the 'same age' for two days.
17. I have another brother and a sister, also. All younger than me.
18. We are 29 (me), 28, 26 and 25.
19. I don't want children of my own.
20. I am the proud 'mother' of two puppies.
21. I am not a good disciplinarian - my puppies run the house.
22. I could live off of salads from Texas Land and Cattle and The Olive Garden.
23. As long as I had dark chocolate covered espresso beans to go along with it all.
24. My favorite perfume is L'eau d'Issey by Issey Miyake. Feel free to purchase a bottle for me at your convenience.....I'll even link to it for you
25. My favorite men's cologne is Dolce & Gabbana for men. Feel free to introduce me to a cute man wearing that at any time. I'll melt. It's rather humorous to watch.
Ok...that's the first quarter ..... I will percolate on the next 25 tidbits and get back to you, my little chicks.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
Mentally Exhausting
Why is it that I cannot seem to press the 'Pause' button in my mind? Have I just not found it yet? Does it not exist? Somewhere, deep in a crevice, there has to be a synapsis that can be stilled.......a current that can be short-circuited - if only for a moment or two. Surely, in a world blessed with Tivo and DVRs.....someone must have discovered the section of the frontal lobe that controls one's analytical thoughts.
I have been struggling with reconciling my mind and heart on a number of matters recently - what truly resonates with me? Sometimes I know....and sometimes I feel like I am wading through layers of gauze....I can make out faint outlines but can't discern the substance. It's the frustration that gnaws at me....grinding away at my peace of mind and making me question my thoughts and decisions from only moments before.
This isn't meant to be a downer post - - please don't think I am wallowing in depression. That's far from the truth. Just lots of decisions weighing heavily on my already busy mind. I have often said that my life is a huge set of shelves with hundreds of tiny boxes....I must compartmentalize - - and when I need to work on something, I pull that box down and dump out all the minutae contained within. I sort through it, organize it; I discard the immaterial and outdated...and add the important and urgent, tasking myself to completely solve all puzzles and riddles facing me. Then, and only then, can that box be placed high up on the shelf.......and another box pulled.
I 'lose' control when I feel that too many boxes need attention...when some fall off of the shelf and clatter on the floor, spilling their contents across the vast expanse of my consciousness. Every forlorn box on the floor only heightens my awareness that I must spend some time re-evaluating people, places and things.
So, here I sit, doing a mental makeover and wondering just how much I can discard without feeling bereft.....and pondering why I can't seem to just sweep it all under a rug and simply avoid it, like so many others seem capable of doing. I guess I just can't leave things unspoken - though my gut instinct tells me I am opening myself up for future pain. I can't leave things undone, because I thrive on accomplishment - it feeds my insatiable inner demons. And, as evidenced by this post...I can't leave things unthought of, either.
I have been struggling with reconciling my mind and heart on a number of matters recently - what truly resonates with me? Sometimes I know....and sometimes I feel like I am wading through layers of gauze....I can make out faint outlines but can't discern the substance. It's the frustration that gnaws at me....grinding away at my peace of mind and making me question my thoughts and decisions from only moments before.
This isn't meant to be a downer post - - please don't think I am wallowing in depression. That's far from the truth. Just lots of decisions weighing heavily on my already busy mind. I have often said that my life is a huge set of shelves with hundreds of tiny boxes....I must compartmentalize - - and when I need to work on something, I pull that box down and dump out all the minutae contained within. I sort through it, organize it; I discard the immaterial and outdated...and add the important and urgent, tasking myself to completely solve all puzzles and riddles facing me. Then, and only then, can that box be placed high up on the shelf.......and another box pulled.
I 'lose' control when I feel that too many boxes need attention...when some fall off of the shelf and clatter on the floor, spilling their contents across the vast expanse of my consciousness. Every forlorn box on the floor only heightens my awareness that I must spend some time re-evaluating people, places and things.
So, here I sit, doing a mental makeover and wondering just how much I can discard without feeling bereft.....and pondering why I can't seem to just sweep it all under a rug and simply avoid it, like so many others seem capable of doing. I guess I just can't leave things unspoken - though my gut instinct tells me I am opening myself up for future pain. I can't leave things undone, because I thrive on accomplishment - it feeds my insatiable inner demons. And, as evidenced by this post...I can't leave things unthought of, either.
Monday, April 04, 2005
Rollercoaster
First, I was gonna be down in the Rio Grande Valley for two days....then I wasn't.
I didn't really consider how much effort it is to find suitable lodging for two hyperactive canines while out of town. Especially for a very new one...and a housetraining-challenged one.
Luckily - Blue Vertigo has offered his services in housetraining the Spawn of Satan known as Topher. I still don't know if I am gonna take him up on that offer. I'd kinda rather that Blue Vertigo continue to talk to me.
Godiva has definitely come out of her shell. Whereas yesterday, she was content to be cuddled and loved......today she is a rampaging ball of mocha-hued intensity. She and Topher are my little 'Mutt & Jeff'. They're adorable together. It will be even more adorable once he hits his gargantuan final weight of about 9lbs...which will be about one-tenth of the size of Godiva. Can you say 'Napoleon Complex'? Ol' Toph has it in spades.
I didn't really consider how much effort it is to find suitable lodging for two hyperactive canines while out of town. Especially for a very new one...and a housetraining-challenged one.
Luckily - Blue Vertigo has offered his services in housetraining the Spawn of Satan known as Topher. I still don't know if I am gonna take him up on that offer. I'd kinda rather that Blue Vertigo continue to talk to me.
Godiva has definitely come out of her shell. Whereas yesterday, she was content to be cuddled and loved......today she is a rampaging ball of mocha-hued intensity. She and Topher are my little 'Mutt & Jeff'. They're adorable together. It will be even more adorable once he hits his gargantuan final weight of about 9lbs...which will be about one-tenth of the size of Godiva. Can you say 'Napoleon Complex'? Ol' Toph has it in spades.
Sunday, April 03, 2005
Operation Puppy Retrieval
(Thanks to Blue Vertigo for the title)
Left Dallas at 5am on Saturday morning (I know, I know...long story - - I was on 'PopeWatch' - - couldn't tear myself away from the TV for updates...and was procrastinating because I didn't want to get in the car and drive for hours) and made it to Abilene at 8am.
Left Abilene at 9am..made it to San Angelo at 10:15, picked up Godiva, and made it back to Abilene by 11:45. Introduced the newest member of the Freeman petting zoo to Chrissy and Chris.
Napped from 2pm to 7pm - then hung out with Chrissy, Kara and a handful of 'the girls'. Oh...and about 40 C-130 pilots and crewmen from Dyess. I got a funny shirt out of it. I just blurted out to one of them, Andy, 'I want your shirt!' He obliged. Heh.....when you've got it...you've got it. Er....maybe...um, probably not so much...but he did hand over the shirt. I will post a pic of it later. Great fun - - Dyess airmen all out wearing shirts that were made especially for the occasion - the 'Abilene Under Siege - Death March 2005'. Ironic, because the Pope passed away....
Anyway - that event is still weighing on my mind. He was the only Pope I actually ever can remember. My worldview, while it developed early, was still in its infancy back in 1978.
Todd met the puppies...and he and I got to talk for a while.
Sleep again...then back to Dallas.
Cleaning - and bonding with Godiva...who, at seven weeks, is almost 15 lbs. Good gosh, I am really in for it now.
Left Dallas at 5am on Saturday morning (I know, I know...long story - - I was on 'PopeWatch' - - couldn't tear myself away from the TV for updates...and was procrastinating because I didn't want to get in the car and drive for hours) and made it to Abilene at 8am.
Left Abilene at 9am..made it to San Angelo at 10:15, picked up Godiva, and made it back to Abilene by 11:45. Introduced the newest member of the Freeman petting zoo to Chrissy and Chris.
Napped from 2pm to 7pm - then hung out with Chrissy, Kara and a handful of 'the girls'. Oh...and about 40 C-130 pilots and crewmen from Dyess. I got a funny shirt out of it. I just blurted out to one of them, Andy, 'I want your shirt!' He obliged. Heh.....when you've got it...you've got it. Er....maybe...um, probably not so much...but he did hand over the shirt. I will post a pic of it later. Great fun - - Dyess airmen all out wearing shirts that were made especially for the occasion - the 'Abilene Under Siege - Death March 2005'. Ironic, because the Pope passed away....
Anyway - that event is still weighing on my mind. He was the only Pope I actually ever can remember. My worldview, while it developed early, was still in its infancy back in 1978.
Todd met the puppies...and he and I got to talk for a while.
Sleep again...then back to Dallas.
Cleaning - and bonding with Godiva...who, at seven weeks, is almost 15 lbs. Good gosh, I am really in for it now.
Friday, April 01, 2005
Does a bad Friday guarantee a good weekend?
Let's sure hope so.
Because this Friday is shaping up to be a whale of a bust.
Because this Friday is shaping up to be a whale of a bust.
Thursday, March 31, 2005
The Object of my Frustration
Wow.
So many things seem to have hit at once. I am alternatively exuberant and melancholy.....I go through stretches of the day, singing "I Enjoy Being a Girl" in that annoyingly perky 'Sarah- Jessica-Parker-shilling-for-GAP' way......then I find myself staring in the mirror, angling my face this way and that way - - searching for the first sign of crow's feet or bemoaning the little blemish that could. (You know - - - the one who made a token appearance and just won't go away.)
I have decided being a girl is not necessarily the most fun job on earth. Let me just give you the breakdown on what it takes for Unfortunate Serendipity to get going on any given day.
6:00
The alarm beckons - and is silenced with a thump, as I grumble semi-profanties and burrow back down beneath the covers.
6:25
The first tentative movements begin somewhere down by my right hip. The little bump in the covers begins to migrate upward.
6:27
The bump in the covers finally wiggles its way out. Topher stretches and yawns...then makes a perfunctory nip at my ear - and I swat him away.
6:32
Facedown in the pillow, the back of my head is repeatedly trounced in a left-to-right and right-to-left, 'bound across the bed' romp in morning puppy ritual. I briefly consider at what speed and trajectory a puppy can achieve escape velocity. Instead, I pin him underneath my right knee, against his furious, wiggling protests.
6:35
I doze....Joaquin Phoenix dozes with me. (At least he does in my dreams.)
6:39
I catch the puppy in a vise-like claw-handed grip as he attempts to buzz by my head again. I grumble "Negative Ghostrider, the pattern is full" as I drop his little red butt down onto the floor.
6:40
The alarm clock beckons again. I stumble out of bed and give it a couple of good backhanded shots, which only serve to increase the volume and knock it off of the nightstand. I leave it blaring on the floor as I walk unsteadily to the bathroom.
6:45
Once outside with the dog, I look down and realize that I am clad only in the thinnest of nightgowns - a cordial-red floor length, bias-cut, decolletage-baring number with a sheer back panel. I realize there are people outside. Oh, and it's a little nipply, er nippy. I will Topher to do his business quickly.
6:50
I am beginning to wonder if I could SQUEEZE something out of the dog.
6:55
I give up and pick up the three-pound dog, tuck him against my chest for warmth and coverage, and scurry back inside.
6:55:30
Topher pees on the carpet. I curse all shorthair German badger hunters.
7:00
After cleaning Topher's dime-sized contribution to the carpet, I hit the shower, scrubbing and lathering up.
7:03
I doze. Upright. In the shower. Joaquin Phoenix dozes with me. (hey, it's my dream.)
7:05
I step out of the shower and begin drying my hair. Topher is adamant that my ankles must be licked dry, lest I suffer pneumonia from exposing them to the air to dry on their own.
7:08
I stop to take a look at the frizzed-out mop of unruly red curls springing out in wild abandon. I resolve to cut my hair this week. Not that it will happen. I have been resolving to cut my hair 'this week' for the last four months. I make a half-hearted attempt to tame the tendrils, then declare that they add character to my bohemian look (what bohemian look?) and give them a coating of a silicone-based hair serum. Now it only resembles copper wiring wound into springs.
7:10
I give my first of many exasperated sighs of the day as I face the closet and thumb through the wardrobe for suitable apparel.
7:12
I doze. Upright. In the closet. No, Joaquin Phoenix does not doze with me. He's gone back to bed.
7:14
I finally settle on the outfit du jour. I iron a few pesky wrinkles, nudging Topher away as he tugs on a sleeve or a hem.
7:20
I emerge from the bedroom, tugging at cuffs and straightening my collar...and go looking for my stilleto-heeled black patent leather Bandolino strappy sandals. I locate the left sandal in the closest. The right sandal? It's missing in action.
7:23
Still in search of missing sandal.
7:27
Searching....still.
7:30
Notice Topher is also missing.
7:31
My analytical skills begin to kick in. Missing dog AND missing shoe. Sadly enough, I am more concerned for the shoe's welfare.
7:35
My impending Amber alert is not necessary. Missing canine and footwear are located in the northeast corner of my bedroom...under the bed. Canine is not too thrilled to have to relinquish his chew toy. I am not sympathetic.
7:40
I place the canine out on the patio, where he immediately goes into separation anxiety mode. He whines, nay - he screeches out his fears of abandonment, quaking in fear...positive that I am never to return - - WAIT! What's that over there? A pig's ear chew? He forgets that I even exist.
7:42
I exit the Villa d'Freeman and walk to my car, noticing that someone has parked perpendicular to my row and blocked me and three other cars in. I stew silently. The driver in the car parked beside me is slightly more vocal...honking his horn and yelling in the vicinity of an open apartment door. I didn't quite hear him...but I think he was making statements about the nocturnal activities that the driver of the abandoned car has with his or her maternal unit. I was too busy fiddling with the radio to care.
7:47
The abandoned car is reclaimed by its owner...who doesn't seem to care that there are three drivers blocked by his vehicle. I fear for his personal safety if he chooses to return to the complex. I am not particularly violent...but am rethinking my commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
7:50
I arrive at the evil mecca known as Starbucks...where I am greeted in true 'Norm' from Cheers fashion. I think it's a sign that I visit my neighborhood coffee beanery a little too often. I don't even get a chance to open my mouth before someone does a call-out for my solo grande mocha frappuchino.
7:57
I whip onto Irving Blvd and make a charge to get ahead of the eighteen-wheeler who is bound and determined to swerve from lane to lane - like a drunken Shaquille O'Neal defending the basket. I manage to roll around the block and get ahead of him.
8:08
I arrive at work. And realize I have no makeup on. Forget it. I don't care. Lip gloss and mascara, and I am golden.
See? It's a comedy of errors for me to simply get out of the house.
So many things seem to have hit at once. I am alternatively exuberant and melancholy.....I go through stretches of the day, singing "I Enjoy Being a Girl" in that annoyingly perky 'Sarah- Jessica-Parker-shilling-for-GAP' way......then I find myself staring in the mirror, angling my face this way and that way - - searching for the first sign of crow's feet or bemoaning the little blemish that could. (You know - - - the one who made a token appearance and just won't go away.)
I have decided being a girl is not necessarily the most fun job on earth. Let me just give you the breakdown on what it takes for Unfortunate Serendipity to get going on any given day.
6:00
The alarm beckons - and is silenced with a thump, as I grumble semi-profanties and burrow back down beneath the covers.
6:25
The first tentative movements begin somewhere down by my right hip. The little bump in the covers begins to migrate upward.
6:27
The bump in the covers finally wiggles its way out. Topher stretches and yawns...then makes a perfunctory nip at my ear - and I swat him away.
6:32
Facedown in the pillow, the back of my head is repeatedly trounced in a left-to-right and right-to-left, 'bound across the bed' romp in morning puppy ritual. I briefly consider at what speed and trajectory a puppy can achieve escape velocity. Instead, I pin him underneath my right knee, against his furious, wiggling protests.
6:35
I doze....Joaquin Phoenix dozes with me. (At least he does in my dreams.)
6:39
I catch the puppy in a vise-like claw-handed grip as he attempts to buzz by my head again. I grumble "Negative Ghostrider, the pattern is full" as I drop his little red butt down onto the floor.
6:40
The alarm clock beckons again. I stumble out of bed and give it a couple of good backhanded shots, which only serve to increase the volume and knock it off of the nightstand. I leave it blaring on the floor as I walk unsteadily to the bathroom.
6:45
Once outside with the dog, I look down and realize that I am clad only in the thinnest of nightgowns - a cordial-red floor length, bias-cut, decolletage-baring number with a sheer back panel. I realize there are people outside. Oh, and it's a little nipply, er nippy. I will Topher to do his business quickly.
6:50
I am beginning to wonder if I could SQUEEZE something out of the dog.
6:55
I give up and pick up the three-pound dog, tuck him against my chest for warmth and coverage, and scurry back inside.
6:55:30
Topher pees on the carpet. I curse all shorthair German badger hunters.
7:00
After cleaning Topher's dime-sized contribution to the carpet, I hit the shower, scrubbing and lathering up.
7:03
I doze. Upright. In the shower. Joaquin Phoenix dozes with me. (hey, it's my dream.)
7:05
I step out of the shower and begin drying my hair. Topher is adamant that my ankles must be licked dry, lest I suffer pneumonia from exposing them to the air to dry on their own.
7:08
I stop to take a look at the frizzed-out mop of unruly red curls springing out in wild abandon. I resolve to cut my hair this week. Not that it will happen. I have been resolving to cut my hair 'this week' for the last four months. I make a half-hearted attempt to tame the tendrils, then declare that they add character to my bohemian look (what bohemian look?) and give them a coating of a silicone-based hair serum. Now it only resembles copper wiring wound into springs.
7:10
I give my first of many exasperated sighs of the day as I face the closet and thumb through the wardrobe for suitable apparel.
7:12
I doze. Upright. In the closet. No, Joaquin Phoenix does not doze with me. He's gone back to bed.
7:14
I finally settle on the outfit du jour. I iron a few pesky wrinkles, nudging Topher away as he tugs on a sleeve or a hem.
7:20
I emerge from the bedroom, tugging at cuffs and straightening my collar...and go looking for my stilleto-heeled black patent leather Bandolino strappy sandals. I locate the left sandal in the closest. The right sandal? It's missing in action.
7:23
Still in search of missing sandal.
7:27
Searching....still.
7:30
Notice Topher is also missing.
7:31
My analytical skills begin to kick in. Missing dog AND missing shoe. Sadly enough, I am more concerned for the shoe's welfare.
7:35
My impending Amber alert is not necessary. Missing canine and footwear are located in the northeast corner of my bedroom...under the bed. Canine is not too thrilled to have to relinquish his chew toy. I am not sympathetic.
7:40
I place the canine out on the patio, where he immediately goes into separation anxiety mode. He whines, nay - he screeches out his fears of abandonment, quaking in fear...positive that I am never to return - - WAIT! What's that over there? A pig's ear chew? He forgets that I even exist.
7:42
I exit the Villa d'Freeman and walk to my car, noticing that someone has parked perpendicular to my row and blocked me and three other cars in. I stew silently. The driver in the car parked beside me is slightly more vocal...honking his horn and yelling in the vicinity of an open apartment door. I didn't quite hear him...but I think he was making statements about the nocturnal activities that the driver of the abandoned car has with his or her maternal unit. I was too busy fiddling with the radio to care.
7:47
The abandoned car is reclaimed by its owner...who doesn't seem to care that there are three drivers blocked by his vehicle. I fear for his personal safety if he chooses to return to the complex. I am not particularly violent...but am rethinking my commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
7:50
I arrive at the evil mecca known as Starbucks...where I am greeted in true 'Norm' from Cheers fashion. I think it's a sign that I visit my neighborhood coffee beanery a little too often. I don't even get a chance to open my mouth before someone does a call-out for my solo grande mocha frappuchino.
7:57
I whip onto Irving Blvd and make a charge to get ahead of the eighteen-wheeler who is bound and determined to swerve from lane to lane - like a drunken Shaquille O'Neal defending the basket. I manage to roll around the block and get ahead of him.
8:08
I arrive at work. And realize I have no makeup on. Forget it. I don't care. Lip gloss and mascara, and I am golden.
See? It's a comedy of errors for me to simply get out of the house.
Monday, March 28, 2005
Further proof that my bad habits aren't my fault
I found this today while surfing for some information on the 'net....and it brought back a conversation (or series of conversations) I have had with Zen about what I consider one of those horrible habits I have. As in 'open mouth, insert foot' type of bad habit. So, Zen, I guess I can blame it on the stars. If you're curious about what your bad habit is - visit this site.
Brutally Honest Sagittarius
Archers have a bad habit of telling the truth. And while these folks have the best intentions, that doesn't take the sting out of comments like, "Gee, those pants make you look fat!" or "Were you drunk when you wrote this report?" The best way for Archers to cultivate tact is through prodigious study. Etiquette books will definitely help.
Brutally Honest Sagittarius
Archers have a bad habit of telling the truth. And while these folks have the best intentions, that doesn't take the sting out of comments like, "Gee, those pants make you look fat!" or "Were you drunk when you wrote this report?" The best way for Archers to cultivate tact is through prodigious study. Etiquette books will definitely help.
Saturday, March 26, 2005
In honor of Easter
Which happy bunny are you? I have always felt an affinity for this bunny - - and now that I have taken the test, I know why!
you are the cute but psycho happy bunny. You
adorable, but a little out there. It's alright,
you might not have it all, but there are worse
which happy bunny are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
As they say, 'Cute, but Psycho...it all evens out'.
you are the cute but psycho happy bunny. You
adorable, but a little out there. It's alright,
you might not have it all, but there are worse
which happy bunny are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
As they say, 'Cute, but Psycho...it all evens out'.
Friday, March 25, 2005
Armageddon is upon us
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.gsp?product_id=2226075
The Peep Maker
I need one. They are, unfortunately, out of stock at WalMart. Alas, I shall have to don my bunny ears and fuzzy bunny cotton-tail and celebrate Easter in a half-hearted manner.
The Peep Maker
I need one. They are, unfortunately, out of stock at WalMart. Alas, I shall have to don my bunny ears and fuzzy bunny cotton-tail and celebrate Easter in a half-hearted manner.
Oh, man....I think I may need some help here.....
Zen took the test - which made me wonder how I would stack up against my friends. Though it gives me the shivers...I took it anway.
Yeeeoooouuuuch. I didn't know I was this bad. *sigh*
The Dante's Inferno Test has banished you to the Second Level of Hell!
Here is how you matched up against all the levels:
Take the Dante Inferno Hell Test
Yeeeoooouuuuch. I didn't know I was this bad. *sigh*
The Dante's Inferno Test has banished you to the Second Level of Hell!
Here is how you matched up against all the levels:
| Level | Score |
|---|---|
| Purgatory (Repenting Believers) | Low |
| Level 1 - Limbo (Virtuous Non-Believers) | Very Low |
| Level 2 (Lustful) | Very High |
| Level 3 (Gluttonous) | High |
| Level 4 (Prodigal and Avaricious) | Very High |
| Level 5 (Wrathful and Gloomy) | High |
| Level 6 - The City of Dis (Heretics) | Very Low |
| Level 7 (Violent) | Moderate |
| Level 8- the Malebolge (Fraudulent, Malicious, Panderers) | Very High |
| Level 9 - Cocytus (Treacherous) | Low |
Take the Dante Inferno Hell Test
What is it with me and Friday Nights?
Give ya one guess what I am at home doing tonight.
You got it. Laundry. Geeeez....you'd think I do nothing but change clothes fifteen times a day. I truly don't...but I haven't been motivated to do it during the week. (Not to mention that I have been passing time with a certain individual of the opposite gender, out and about in Dallas. Darn social life - it's interfering with my domestic goddess status.)
Well, last night was fun - dinner with Blue Vertigo at Prego's on Greenville..then a quick trip over to The Barley House off of Henderson, to listen to a band and meet up with Liz, finally. Liz is totally awesome and hilarious - and hanging out with her and her friends was fun. I was just sorry I couldn't stay longer. It's just that 8:00am rolls around soooo soon for me.
Well, I shall continue my assault on Mt. Laundry. Zen's hanging out here at Villa d'Freeman this weekend, due to an educational engagement - and I am sure he doesn't want to have to slog through the jungle of clothing and the like that is currently covering everything here.
Oh - here's a shot from last night.....finally got my eyebrows done. Good gosh, they needed it!
Socially inept...but somewhat cute at times....welcome to my world.
You got it. Laundry. Geeeez....you'd think I do nothing but change clothes fifteen times a day. I truly don't...but I haven't been motivated to do it during the week. (Not to mention that I have been passing time with a certain individual of the opposite gender, out and about in Dallas. Darn social life - it's interfering with my domestic goddess status.)
Well, last night was fun - dinner with Blue Vertigo at Prego's on Greenville..then a quick trip over to The Barley House off of Henderson, to listen to a band and meet up with Liz, finally. Liz is totally awesome and hilarious - and hanging out with her and her friends was fun. I was just sorry I couldn't stay longer. It's just that 8:00am rolls around soooo soon for me.
Well, I shall continue my assault on Mt. Laundry. Zen's hanging out here at Villa d'Freeman this weekend, due to an educational engagement - and I am sure he doesn't want to have to slog through the jungle of clothing and the like that is currently covering everything here.
Oh - here's a shot from last night.....finally got my eyebrows done. Good gosh, they needed it!
Socially inept...but somewhat cute at times....welcome to my world.
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
My Little Piece of Real Estate out in the WWW
I finally did it. I gave into the commercialism. No more Blogger for me (well, in the future).
I finally own my own little piece of the webworld:
unfortunateserendipity.com
Watch for great things. Um, or at least mortifying stories about my exploits.
I finally own my own little piece of the webworld:
unfortunateserendipity.com
Watch for great things. Um, or at least mortifying stories about my exploits.
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
a GREAT Date.....What's That?
Believe it or not, Unfortunate Serendipity here actually went out on a 'date'. Yes, a D-A-T-E.
And, it was honestly the best date I have been on since moving to the DFW area. If he's actually reading this - I am going to be mortified. But, you know what? I don't think I care.
I kinda like this feeling of infatuation. Especially since I have a deep-seated terror of my heart being broken by a careless boy...and over the last year or so I have had to try to repress feelings and emotions when it came to members of the opposite gender.
So, I announce to the world....
When my phone rings - and it's him....I grin a little.
And, it was honestly the best date I have been on since moving to the DFW area. If he's actually reading this - I am going to be mortified. But, you know what? I don't think I care.
I kinda like this feeling of infatuation. Especially since I have a deep-seated terror of my heart being broken by a careless boy...and over the last year or so I have had to try to repress feelings and emotions when it came to members of the opposite gender.
So, I announce to the world....
When my phone rings - and it's him....I grin a little.
Friday, March 18, 2005
Friday Nights at My Place....
Yes, I am fully aware of the fact that it is shortly after 10:00pm on Friday night, and I am at home.
While all of my friends while away their evening at various locales in the area....I am curled up on my couch, determined to watch 'Vanity Fair' and finish cleaning the house.
Why the incessant housecleaning lately? Well, once again, I am getting a visit from (one of the) parental units. Dad should be here in an hour or so...which means I will have the couch again tonight. Part of me is seriously considering shelling out the money for a nice airbed....with all the parental visits I have been getting lately.....I have decided the couch just doesn't cut it for me. When it rains it pours.
Don't get me wrong....I am thrilled...I have so missed getting to see my mom and dad....and making a quick trip home is not as easy as it was once upon a time (when I lived less than an hour from the 'rents).
As for the automatic pee dispenser hereafter referred to as "Topher"....well, he's settling in quite nicely. We're still working on housetraining. Well...I am working on it...he's oblivous....still. I am soliciting sponsorships from Woolite and Resolve...for all the money I am spending on carpet cleaning supplies....they should be ready and willing to part with some money (or at least a few bottles of cleaner).
While all of my friends while away their evening at various locales in the area....I am curled up on my couch, determined to watch 'Vanity Fair' and finish cleaning the house.
Why the incessant housecleaning lately? Well, once again, I am getting a visit from (one of the) parental units. Dad should be here in an hour or so...which means I will have the couch again tonight. Part of me is seriously considering shelling out the money for a nice airbed....with all the parental visits I have been getting lately.....I have decided the couch just doesn't cut it for me. When it rains it pours.
Don't get me wrong....I am thrilled...I have so missed getting to see my mom and dad....and making a quick trip home is not as easy as it was once upon a time (when I lived less than an hour from the 'rents).
As for the automatic pee dispenser hereafter referred to as "Topher"....well, he's settling in quite nicely. We're still working on housetraining. Well...I am working on it...he's oblivous....still. I am soliciting sponsorships from Woolite and Resolve...for all the money I am spending on carpet cleaning supplies....they should be ready and willing to part with some money (or at least a few bottles of cleaner).
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
Case in point...the weather is not good for the hair.....
this is what happens when I get out in the wind
Bada Bing!
Lookie here. A post NOT about puppies.
Wow .... this weather sure has some manisfestations of multiple personality disorder....
"I'm gonna be warm...and lure Jeri into wearing a skirt to work!"
Then.......a couple of hours later....
"I'm gonna spit drizzle all over Jeri and cause her to freeze her gams off..that'll show her....she'll never wear a skirt again!"
Yeah...Mother Nature...here's to you. You can kiss my stubble-covered legs. They're all your fault. Thank you very much.
Wow .... this weather sure has some manisfestations of multiple personality disorder....
"I'm gonna be warm...and lure Jeri into wearing a skirt to work!"
Then.......a couple of hours later....
"I'm gonna spit drizzle all over Jeri and cause her to freeze her gams off..that'll show her....she'll never wear a skirt again!"
Yeah...Mother Nature...here's to you. You can kiss my stubble-covered legs. They're all your fault. Thank you very much.
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Say Hello to My Little Friend.....
Here she is....Godiva...or 'Diva' for short. (and that's Diva...with a long 'i', people).
Jill Stewart from Stewart Labs in San Angelo, Texas sent me this picture of my new 'child'. In her email she writes,
"She has the best "puppy eyes". They are still blue so I am pretty certain she will have the really light butterscotch eyes like her momma."
Diva does have some pretty blue eyes....hopefully they'll still be that shade when I get her. And I love gorgeous dark chocolate labs with those eyes the color of honey. And, hopefully she'll be better behaved than her dachshund 'brother'...who is giving me fits right now. I know that dachshunds are notoriously hard to train...but he's taking it to extremes.
Right now...Topher thinks his name is 'NO!'
Friday, March 11, 2005
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Ok....so he's got the cute puppy face. But, ladies and gentleman...I present to you....the peeing machine.
I swear, tonight alone, he has had an output of close to a gallon. I swear. I'm not letting him near the water bowl any longer tonight. He's doing it to spite me.
My buddy Zen is over tonight and I was hoping to show off the cute, precious puppy in all his cute, puppy-ish glory. All Zen has gotten is a performance of the automatic canine pee dispenser.
All this can be yours for three easy payments of $19.95.
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Topher's rear end.....hrmmm....yeah, he's definitely my dog.
Isn't he adorable? He looks so innocent and cute. Yeah.
DON'T LET THE 'SWEET PUPPY LOOK' DECEIVE YOU!!!!
Less than an hour later, he was a little fireball, jumping all over the place and chewing on anything he could catch in his little needle teeth.
Can anyone remind me why I wanted a puppy?
I am exhausted. Exhausted.....in the 'I can hardly move, there are massive bags under my eyes, I have a pounding headache' way.
Whatever could have caused this? Try a teeny-tiny, two pound fur-covered bundle of energy.
Mom and Dad came through yesterday, bringing Topher to me. Topher, of course, is a seven-week-old miniature dachshund puppy. Or, I that's what I have been told. I personally think he's a demon-infested dervish of the highest order. Cute as a button....but cute doesn't help ya sleep at night. Especially not him.
Mom and Dad had my room...and my comfy bed. So that left me with the living room couch. I don't care what Zen says....I do not enjoy sleeping on the couch. Part of it might have been the puppy - which chose to use me as a jungle-gym and chew-toy. Between midnight and 5:45am....I probably got a cumulative total of FIFTEEN minutes of sleep. FIFTEEN. He played...he cried...he wanted down...he wanted up. We went outside to do his business....he drank water...and we went outside AGAIN...and AGAIN to do his business. He gnawed on my fingers....tugged on my hair....bit my ears and scratched my neck. (Wow...in any other context..that would have sounded like a good date. J/K)
Anyway....5:45 this morning, I marched into my bedroom, walked across to the bed, and dropped that two-pound canine right between my parents, who were sound asleep.
You know what that dog did? He conked out, right then and there...up against my mom. "Hmmm..." I'm thinking, "Could it be because he's played all freakin' night?!?!?!?!"
That's it...when I get home....he and I are gonna spend two hours playing outside. I am gonna run that flop-eared thing ragged.
WOW....aren't ya'll all glad I am not a mother?
Whatever could have caused this? Try a teeny-tiny, two pound fur-covered bundle of energy.
Mom and Dad came through yesterday, bringing Topher to me. Topher, of course, is a seven-week-old miniature dachshund puppy. Or, I that's what I have been told. I personally think he's a demon-infested dervish of the highest order. Cute as a button....but cute doesn't help ya sleep at night. Especially not him.
Mom and Dad had my room...and my comfy bed. So that left me with the living room couch. I don't care what Zen says....I do not enjoy sleeping on the couch. Part of it might have been the puppy - which chose to use me as a jungle-gym and chew-toy. Between midnight and 5:45am....I probably got a cumulative total of FIFTEEN minutes of sleep. FIFTEEN. He played...he cried...he wanted down...he wanted up. We went outside to do his business....he drank water...and we went outside AGAIN...and AGAIN to do his business. He gnawed on my fingers....tugged on my hair....bit my ears and scratched my neck. (Wow...in any other context..that would have sounded like a good date. J/K)
Anyway....5:45 this morning, I marched into my bedroom, walked across to the bed, and dropped that two-pound canine right between my parents, who were sound asleep.
You know what that dog did? He conked out, right then and there...up against my mom. "Hmmm..." I'm thinking, "Could it be because he's played all freakin' night?!?!?!?!"
That's it...when I get home....he and I are gonna spend two hours playing outside. I am gonna run that flop-eared thing ragged.
WOW....aren't ya'll all glad I am not a mother?
Monday, March 07, 2005
In fear for their lives....
The dust bunnies underneath my bed have requested political asylum.
Since I am the despot who rules this little country known as XXXX N. Belt Line Rd....I am giving them the impression that I am, indeed, giving consideration to their plea.
In reality....I just realized that I don't have a vacuum cleaner any longer. The little buggers are safe for at least one more day, because I don't feel like going to buy one. And the vacuum cleaner I inherited from The Wired Monkey was borrowed by someone else...and I think it's gonna stay there.
/wants a Dyson
//doesn't want to pay for it
///realizes she's out of luck
Since I am the despot who rules this little country known as XXXX N. Belt Line Rd....I am giving them the impression that I am, indeed, giving consideration to their plea.
In reality....I just realized that I don't have a vacuum cleaner any longer. The little buggers are safe for at least one more day, because I don't feel like going to buy one. And the vacuum cleaner I inherited from The Wired Monkey was borrowed by someone else...and I think it's gonna stay there.
/wants a Dyson
//doesn't want to pay for it
///realizes she's out of luck
Visitors
Mom and Dad are coming to see me!
Ok...they're not coming to see ME....they're passing through on the way to a funeral. BUT, still....it will be the first time they both have come to DFW together since I moved here.
AND, they're bringing my little puppy. The mini-dachshund. Topher. I just went and spent a fortune on crap for that little dog. He'd better be the best darn puppy, ever.
I am working from home right now - reconciling stuff from the office...and washing the sheets on the bed so that mom and dad can sleep here tonight.
Ok...they're not coming to see ME....they're passing through on the way to a funeral. BUT, still....it will be the first time they both have come to DFW together since I moved here.
AND, they're bringing my little puppy. The mini-dachshund. Topher. I just went and spent a fortune on crap for that little dog. He'd better be the best darn puppy, ever.
I am working from home right now - reconciling stuff from the office...and washing the sheets on the bed so that mom and dad can sleep here tonight.
Sunday, March 06, 2005
Grocery Stores.....
I HATE grocery shopping on my own. It is a chore when I have to brave the aisles...the woman with four kids hanging off of the sides of the basket....the man who is oblivious to everything and walks into you no matter how many evasive actions you take to avoid him......
You know how it goes. Tonight was no exception. I have been feeling slightly lethargic all day long. Of course, none of it can be traced back to staying up way too late singing 'Johnson Grass Farm' and various and sundry other Elvis T. Busboy songs at the show last night. Nope. That has no bearing on it....or at least none that I will admit.
The show was fun. It was a great show down in Deep Ellum Blues. Good friends.....Zen, the Wired Monkey, TM, and one half of 'Wooke' (great name for them, Wired Monkey!) all gathered to relax and enjoy one another's company. I love my friends. All of them. And their quirks. Heaven knows...they put up with mine.
Today was fun, too....in a very slow way....Brunch at Ozona with Zen and Her Royal Fabulousness , except I kept zoning out. I am sure Her Royal Fabulousness thought I was taking valium or some other narcotic..Zen already knew I was useless today. I was just tired, had gotten some bad news the night before and was thinking of things I needed to get done when I got back home.....so, my apologies to those two. They deserved more of my attention.
Anyway...I was supposed to go up to Addison for sushi tonight..but my tummy gave me a stern lecture this afternoon. I am not much on fish...cooked or otherwise....and I want to make sure my first true sushi experience (I don't count trying it back in 1993 in D.C.) is a good one.
So, I took some medicine and tried to sleep it off. That did not work. I went to the fridge and opened it and faced that scene right out of 'Ghostbusters'.....remember that one? Sigourney Weaver's character opens her fridge and is confronted with a demon calling 'Zuul'. You can now find that fridge in Irving, Texas. Drop me a line and I will give you directions. With your paid admission you can also listen while I run my dishwasher...it has delusions of grandeur and thinks it is a space rocket.
I decided to finish clearing out the fridge. It looked a little sad..and bare. So, off to Kroger for me. Along with the basics (diet coke being a necessity)...I decided I was going to go 'lazy' for the next couple of weeks. I stocked up on pre-packaged dinners. Fifteen Lean Cuisines and Healthy Choice meals later I was out of there. (yippee! I got a free 12-pack of Yoplait yogurt. Wait. I don't eat yogurt. I can't stand the stuff. I am willing to donate it to a needy friend - - holler if you want it.)
You know how it goes. Tonight was no exception. I have been feeling slightly lethargic all day long. Of course, none of it can be traced back to staying up way too late singing 'Johnson Grass Farm' and various and sundry other Elvis T. Busboy songs at the show last night. Nope. That has no bearing on it....or at least none that I will admit.
The show was fun. It was a great show down in Deep Ellum Blues. Good friends.....Zen, the Wired Monkey, TM, and one half of 'Wooke' (great name for them, Wired Monkey!) all gathered to relax and enjoy one another's company. I love my friends. All of them. And their quirks. Heaven knows...they put up with mine.
Today was fun, too....in a very slow way....Brunch at Ozona with Zen and Her Royal Fabulousness , except I kept zoning out. I am sure Her Royal Fabulousness thought I was taking valium or some other narcotic..Zen already knew I was useless today. I was just tired, had gotten some bad news the night before and was thinking of things I needed to get done when I got back home.....so, my apologies to those two. They deserved more of my attention.
Anyway...I was supposed to go up to Addison for sushi tonight..but my tummy gave me a stern lecture this afternoon. I am not much on fish...cooked or otherwise....and I want to make sure my first true sushi experience (I don't count trying it back in 1993 in D.C.) is a good one.
So, I took some medicine and tried to sleep it off. That did not work. I went to the fridge and opened it and faced that scene right out of 'Ghostbusters'.....remember that one? Sigourney Weaver's character opens her fridge and is confronted with a demon calling 'Zuul'. You can now find that fridge in Irving, Texas. Drop me a line and I will give you directions. With your paid admission you can also listen while I run my dishwasher...it has delusions of grandeur and thinks it is a space rocket.
I decided to finish clearing out the fridge. It looked a little sad..and bare. So, off to Kroger for me. Along with the basics (diet coke being a necessity)...I decided I was going to go 'lazy' for the next couple of weeks. I stocked up on pre-packaged dinners. Fifteen Lean Cuisines and Healthy Choice meals later I was out of there. (yippee! I got a free 12-pack of Yoplait yogurt. Wait. I don't eat yogurt. I can't stand the stuff. I am willing to donate it to a needy friend - - holler if you want it.)
It's been a whole week.....
and I am sorry I haven't posted. Working, live music...and the promise that my sis was coming to visit all conspired against me and kept me from blogging.
Well, the sis bailed. She's busy moving her business from one location to another. So, I was left with the other two -- working and live music. I have had plenty of them for the week!
Well, the sis bailed. She's busy moving her business from one location to another. So, I was left with the other two -- working and live music. I have had plenty of them for the week!
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Oh, I wish I were an 'OSCAR' meyer Winner
Ok, shameless pun in the title. Watching the Oscars. GET CHRIS ROCK OFF THE FREAKIN' STAGE!!!!
Seriously, I went to the car to start charging my phone during his opening monologue, just to escape the incessant 'whine-age'. Good gosh, let's use every cliched racial joke we can, shall we?
I finally started laughing when Robin Williams got up to present the Oscar for Animated Feature Film. The man is a comic genius - - the schtick about 'Don't worry about the Pixar people, they have iPod stock, they'll be ok.' made me roll!
Oh, great...here's Chris again....and yet another 'black' joke. Why is it that he's such a one-joke wonder and yet he gets to host the Academy Awards? I am honestly sick and tired of ethnicity being the basis for comedy. It's not funny any longer people - no matter who you're joking about.
And, what about the presentations in the audience? Part of the pure, overblown grandeur was watching the 'deer in the headlights' look these non-acting individuals had while making their way to the stage. Why should they be relegated to some lower status, as if their creative contribution is somewhat less valuable?
Wow, Drew Barrymore is looking good. I like the red hair.....let it down, girl....the 'do is a little too matronly. On the flip side, if Beyonce's hair was pulled up any higher in that ponytail....they'd catch her eyebrows, too. I do have to say, though, I definitely can appreciate her singing. She makes Celine Dion look like some tired Vegas act......wait - nevermind.
Can they cinch Scarlett Johannsen's waist any tighter? I am all for old Hollywood glamour...but when her top half is severed halfway through the show, I am gonna be sad, because she's so cute. Pierce Brosnan with laryngitis? Now we know what he's gonna sound like when he's a grumpy old man.
Oh, yeah...let's bring an animated character up there with him.....*grimaces* anyone remember Rob Lowe and Snow White? You'd think the Academy would have learned. And bringing up ALL the Costume Design nominees up on stage at the same time? NO NO NO!!! That's cruel and inhuman...you get scrutinized while your work and the work of your colleagues is discussed....and then the audience gets to watch your walk of shame off the stage when you lose? And can you say visions of 'Miss America' as the non-winners smile graciously and clap? I was just waiting on the tiara and the huge funeral-like spray of roses.
Cate Blanchet is arguably the most gifted actress of our time. Thank goodness she won. I would have boycotted the rest of the program had she lost out this year. AND YUCK - did Laura Linney forget to wash her hair? Natalie Portman always looks like a cute little wood nymph. She's got a great career ahead of her....give her ten years - I bet she'll have an Oscar of her own by then.
Ok, I loved the tribute Johnny Carson. He was the king of self-deprecating humor and a master of the one-liner - - the adage of 'It isn't funny if you have to explain it?' He never did have to explain it. It only made it more clear that Chris Rock wasn't the right choice to host. Chris is the HBO Special type of comedian. If he can't pepper his speech with f-bombs and other profanities....he just isn't in his element.
Wow...Kirsten Dunst has finally decided to start dressing her age again - not like a geriatric retiree in Southern Florida.
The Counting Crows deserve to win for Best Original Song on the merits of Adam Duritz's hair alone. It doesn't hurt that I adore "Accidentally in Love". It's catchy, it's upbeat...it's happy.
Anyone else think the Chris Rock/Adam Sandler bit fell on its face?
*Yawn* Obligatory President of the Academy speech. Ok, nice bit to thank the members of the armed forces. Al Pacino looks like he just climbed out of a dumpster.
Beyonce Round II. Singing "Learn to be Lonely"........how can she sing with that huge necklace hanging around her neck like an albatross?
Jeremy Irons - "I hope they missed." By far...the best line of the night.
Kate Winslet. She's getting too skinny now. But that blue/lavender color is great with her hair and skintone.
Penelope Cruz and Selma Hayek presenting the awards for Sound Mixing and Sound Editing. Love 'em both...but the accents - while gorgeous - made it difficult to understand the nominees' names.
Yay! Carlos Santana!!....and ........ Antonio Banderas? Ok...we'll go with it. Antonio makes scary faces when he sings.
Oh, and did Prince not make it to rehearsal - where they help coach you on how to pronounce the names of the nominees? And the gentleman who won? Jorge Drexler? I thought it was quite the original touch to sing a portion of his Oscar nominated song as his acceptance speech.
Hillary Swank? Not so much. Great actress...but that acceptance speech. At least she remembered to thank her husband this time around.
Seriously, I went to the car to start charging my phone during his opening monologue, just to escape the incessant 'whine-age'. Good gosh, let's use every cliched racial joke we can, shall we?
I finally started laughing when Robin Williams got up to present the Oscar for Animated Feature Film. The man is a comic genius - - the schtick about 'Don't worry about the Pixar people, they have iPod stock, they'll be ok.' made me roll!
Oh, great...here's Chris again....and yet another 'black' joke. Why is it that he's such a one-joke wonder and yet he gets to host the Academy Awards? I am honestly sick and tired of ethnicity being the basis for comedy. It's not funny any longer people - no matter who you're joking about.
And, what about the presentations in the audience? Part of the pure, overblown grandeur was watching the 'deer in the headlights' look these non-acting individuals had while making their way to the stage. Why should they be relegated to some lower status, as if their creative contribution is somewhat less valuable?
Wow, Drew Barrymore is looking good. I like the red hair.....let it down, girl....the 'do is a little too matronly. On the flip side, if Beyonce's hair was pulled up any higher in that ponytail....they'd catch her eyebrows, too. I do have to say, though, I definitely can appreciate her singing. She makes Celine Dion look like some tired Vegas act......wait - nevermind.
Can they cinch Scarlett Johannsen's waist any tighter? I am all for old Hollywood glamour...but when her top half is severed halfway through the show, I am gonna be sad, because she's so cute. Pierce Brosnan with laryngitis? Now we know what he's gonna sound like when he's a grumpy old man.
Oh, yeah...let's bring an animated character up there with him.....*grimaces* anyone remember Rob Lowe and Snow White? You'd think the Academy would have learned. And bringing up ALL the Costume Design nominees up on stage at the same time? NO NO NO!!! That's cruel and inhuman...you get scrutinized while your work and the work of your colleagues is discussed....and then the audience gets to watch your walk of shame off the stage when you lose? And can you say visions of 'Miss America' as the non-winners smile graciously and clap? I was just waiting on the tiara and the huge funeral-like spray of roses.
Cate Blanchet is arguably the most gifted actress of our time. Thank goodness she won. I would have boycotted the rest of the program had she lost out this year. AND YUCK - did Laura Linney forget to wash her hair? Natalie Portman always looks like a cute little wood nymph. She's got a great career ahead of her....give her ten years - I bet she'll have an Oscar of her own by then.
Ok, I loved the tribute Johnny Carson. He was the king of self-deprecating humor and a master of the one-liner - - the adage of 'It isn't funny if you have to explain it?' He never did have to explain it. It only made it more clear that Chris Rock wasn't the right choice to host. Chris is the HBO Special type of comedian. If he can't pepper his speech with f-bombs and other profanities....he just isn't in his element.
Wow...Kirsten Dunst has finally decided to start dressing her age again - not like a geriatric retiree in Southern Florida.
The Counting Crows deserve to win for Best Original Song on the merits of Adam Duritz's hair alone. It doesn't hurt that I adore "Accidentally in Love". It's catchy, it's upbeat...it's happy.
Anyone else think the Chris Rock/Adam Sandler bit fell on its face?
*Yawn* Obligatory President of the Academy speech. Ok, nice bit to thank the members of the armed forces. Al Pacino looks like he just climbed out of a dumpster.
Beyonce Round II. Singing "Learn to be Lonely"........how can she sing with that huge necklace hanging around her neck like an albatross?
Jeremy Irons - "I hope they missed." By far...the best line of the night.
Kate Winslet. She's getting too skinny now. But that blue/lavender color is great with her hair and skintone.
Penelope Cruz and Selma Hayek presenting the awards for Sound Mixing and Sound Editing. Love 'em both...but the accents - while gorgeous - made it difficult to understand the nominees' names.
Yay! Carlos Santana!!....and ........ Antonio Banderas? Ok...we'll go with it. Antonio makes scary faces when he sings.
Oh, and did Prince not make it to rehearsal - where they help coach you on how to pronounce the names of the nominees? And the gentleman who won? Jorge Drexler? I thought it was quite the original touch to sing a portion of his Oscar nominated song as his acceptance speech.
Hillary Swank? Not so much. Great actress...but that acceptance speech. At least she remembered to thank her husband this time around.
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
'Word Up'........
Guitarist Brian "Head" Welch, a founding member of Korn, has left the band and has rededicated his life to Christianity, according to the group's management.
Ringers 101.....
Someone commentted anonymously on my blog and said they wanted the 'Mahna Mahna' ringer.
Easiest way to get it is to subscribe to 3gupload, since I placed it there. But, if that doesn't tickle your fancy....give me your contact information and I will send the file to you. Then you can upload it a number of ways, including:
1. Sending it to your cell via email (if you have a web-enabled phone) and then opening the email and saving the attachment as as download and using it.
2. Calling your favorite IT friend and having them help you (Thanks, Eric, for making my phone 'Mahna Mahna' for me.)
Cheers, people. I am off to complete my workday.
Easiest way to get it is to subscribe to 3gupload, since I placed it there. But, if that doesn't tickle your fancy....give me your contact information and I will send the file to you. Then you can upload it a number of ways, including:
1. Sending it to your cell via email (if you have a web-enabled phone) and then opening the email and saving the attachment as as download and using it.
2. Calling your favorite IT friend and having them help you (Thanks, Eric, for making my phone 'Mahna Mahna' for me.)
Cheers, people. I am off to complete my workday.
Monday, February 21, 2005
Going to the dogs.....
This weekend, I made a flying trip home to help out with the family catering business.
I was supposed to leave on Friday - but I had to get the title of my truck transferred into my name (why does any interaction with a governmental entity here in DFW take a minimum of three and a half hours?) and my sis saw fit to send me on a scavenger hunt (detailed in Friday's post).
So, I didn't end up leaving until Saturday morning. Early Saturday morning. As in 'you were probably still asleep' Saturday morning.
I got to the catering business and helped set up a local wedding....then worked on the dinner gala for Rescue the Animals. It was the 2005 Dog Bone Festival and Fur Ball. Yes, people and their pets arrive in droves (by the hundreds....hundreds of the two-legged AND four-legged variety). It's all in good fun. Some people really do treat their pets like people. There were 'Elvis' and 'Priscilla'....two little dogs dressed to resemble Elvis Presley (complete with silver jumpsuit) and Priscilla...in a cute frilly skirt.
I had fun checking out a chocolate lab...with her nails painted a bright pink to match her collar and leash. (NO - I will NOT do that to my dog). She was sweet and had a great personality....on top of being a gorgeous dog.
Anyway - after it was over...I spent a little while talking to Todd. It was disturbing, to say the least. Nothing I will go into here...but I am worried about him. It seems he's done a 180 in the last three months and isn't the same person he was when he and I divorced....much less the one I married. Are we just in the process of growing apart? Is he just screwing stuff up? Why do I even worry? Too much to think about.
Anyway, I did dwell on a lot of it on the drive back to DFW. I decided it was a good idea to drive back in that night...got in about 1:00am. I was tired...but glad to be back in my own little apartment.
I was supposed to leave on Friday - but I had to get the title of my truck transferred into my name (why does any interaction with a governmental entity here in DFW take a minimum of three and a half hours?) and my sis saw fit to send me on a scavenger hunt (detailed in Friday's post).
So, I didn't end up leaving until Saturday morning. Early Saturday morning. As in 'you were probably still asleep' Saturday morning.
I got to the catering business and helped set up a local wedding....then worked on the dinner gala for Rescue the Animals. It was the 2005 Dog Bone Festival and Fur Ball. Yes, people and their pets arrive in droves (by the hundreds....hundreds of the two-legged AND four-legged variety). It's all in good fun. Some people really do treat their pets like people. There were 'Elvis' and 'Priscilla'....two little dogs dressed to resemble Elvis Presley (complete with silver jumpsuit) and Priscilla...in a cute frilly skirt.
I had fun checking out a chocolate lab...with her nails painted a bright pink to match her collar and leash. (NO - I will NOT do that to my dog). She was sweet and had a great personality....on top of being a gorgeous dog.
Anyway - after it was over...I spent a little while talking to Todd. It was disturbing, to say the least. Nothing I will go into here...but I am worried about him. It seems he's done a 180 in the last three months and isn't the same person he was when he and I divorced....much less the one I married. Are we just in the process of growing apart? Is he just screwing stuff up? Why do I even worry? Too much to think about.
Anyway, I did dwell on a lot of it on the drive back to DFW. I decided it was a good idea to drive back in that night...got in about 1:00am. I was tired...but glad to be back in my own little apartment.
Friday, February 18, 2005
....on the road again......
I am 'sposed to be in Roscoe right now....except my sis sent me on a scavenger hunt looking for specific items they are gonna need this weekend.
I can't find an inexpensive, small Dallas Cowboys replica helmet that isn't $50.00
PEOPLE - I LIVE IN FREAKIN' IRVING, TEXAS!!!!!
/my head asplode
I can't find an inexpensive, small Dallas Cowboys replica helmet that isn't $50.00
PEOPLE - I LIVE IN FREAKIN' IRVING, TEXAS!!!!!
/my head asplode
Thursday, February 17, 2005
And.....introducing
" 7. Chocolate Female SOLD "
(Update: The Stewart Labs site is being moved...so you won't be able to link to it for a while. But, I am still getting my baby lab. Now I will be the proud owner of a male mini-dachshund and a female lab puppy. I am gonna have my hands soooooo full.)
(Update: The Stewart Labs site is being moved...so you won't be able to link to it for a while. But, I am still getting my baby lab. Now I will be the proud owner of a male mini-dachshund and a female lab puppy. I am gonna have my hands soooooo full.)
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
ARGH
I'm working my way up to a really good rant here, people. And, it ain't gonna be pretty. Hold your horses - - - 'cause I am still building up a good head of steam.
Let's just say....no, let's not.
Let's just say....no, let's not.
I'm having an innocent flirtation.....
....with a graphite-colored BMW Z3.
We see each other every day. Actually - - a couple of times a day. It would probably be more, except people know my penchant for not being a morning person....I usually don't hit the office until shortly after 8am. So, my BMW friend is probably at work by then.
I see 'him' (yep, it's a 'HE'...the driver, I mean) when I am out and about doing errands during lunch. He's on Mockingbird. I see him on Irving Boulevard when I am driving home. Which is quite strange, since I don't leave the office at 5pm like clockwork. Monday, it was like 6:30....yesterday it was closer to 7....and today it was at 5:15. But, all three days, we met up on Irving Boulevard.
I think the Z3 is flirting with my convertible. I managed a grin and a small wave last night - because I had the top down. The Z3 was playing coy - - - its top was up. But, it's been a little more daring on occasion - - he's had his top down a couple of times, too.
Wow...this sounds relatively obscene, huh? Anyway....it's all in good fun. Nothing will ever happen. I mean - what kind of offspring could a Z3 and a convertible Sebring LXi ever produce? ha ha
We see each other every day. Actually - - a couple of times a day. It would probably be more, except people know my penchant for not being a morning person....I usually don't hit the office until shortly after 8am. So, my BMW friend is probably at work by then.
I see 'him' (yep, it's a 'HE'...the driver, I mean) when I am out and about doing errands during lunch. He's on Mockingbird. I see him on Irving Boulevard when I am driving home. Which is quite strange, since I don't leave the office at 5pm like clockwork. Monday, it was like 6:30....yesterday it was closer to 7....and today it was at 5:15. But, all three days, we met up on Irving Boulevard.
I think the Z3 is flirting with my convertible. I managed a grin and a small wave last night - because I had the top down. The Z3 was playing coy - - - its top was up. But, it's been a little more daring on occasion - - he's had his top down a couple of times, too.
Wow...this sounds relatively obscene, huh? Anyway....it's all in good fun. Nothing will ever happen. I mean - what kind of offspring could a Z3 and a convertible Sebring LXi ever produce? ha ha
Monday, February 14, 2005
Valentine's Day
Do you know that this is the first time in eight years that I haven't had a Valentine?
It kinda sucks, man.
It kinda sucks, man.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
Motley, Maroon and Willie
Just some of the concerts I wanna see. But Motley is sold out and my 'contact' isn't forthcoming with tickets...meanie-boy.
Maroon - - - I wanna go...but I don't wanna buy tickets.....I just don't know what kind of show that they put on yet.
Willie - still hope.
Lying in bed....just finished some work for tomorrow...contemplating the relative merits of a bath vs a shower. To be topped off by a nap. Sounds like a plan to me.
I have no rants right now. I have no argumentative shout-outs to the world. I have nothing but a tired little mind and a tired little body. Such is life.
Prayers out to D....although he made August hell for me and single-handedly caused my cynical outlook on the male species (ha ha)...he's still a human. Seems he had a heart attack yesterday. So - - pray for healing and peace for him since I know he is worried.
Maroon - - - I wanna go...but I don't wanna buy tickets.....I just don't know what kind of show that they put on yet.
Willie - still hope.
Lying in bed....just finished some work for tomorrow...contemplating the relative merits of a bath vs a shower. To be topped off by a nap. Sounds like a plan to me.
I have no rants right now. I have no argumentative shout-outs to the world. I have nothing but a tired little mind and a tired little body. Such is life.
Prayers out to D....although he made August hell for me and single-handedly caused my cynical outlook on the male species (ha ha)...he's still a human. Seems he had a heart attack yesterday. So - - pray for healing and peace for him since I know he is worried.
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Un-Jeri-Like
I did something very un-Jeri-like.
No more to follow...so don't even ask.
But I am giggling inside. A few people know. And most agree...it's most un-Jeri-like.
No more to follow...so don't even ask.
But I am giggling inside. A few people know. And most agree...it's most un-Jeri-like.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
I want this week to end.
'Nuff said. I want to curl up in my comfy bed and sleep away the entire weekend....which, hopefully, I will do.
Monday, February 07, 2005
Why Blog if You Can't Blog About What You Want?
That's it. I am starting a new blog. The uncensored, behind-the-scenes version of Unfortunate Serendipity.
Only problem? I am not giving the address out to anyone. A-N-Y-O-N-E.
This is where I will let the real me emerge - - the place I don't have to worry about 'friend placement' or making sure someone gets a mention.
This is where I will also finally let those little cracks in my psyche show....and I think it will do me good to allow it.
No - this blog is not to get back at people...or to share gossip. It's to force myself to take a good, hard look at myself.....so that I can seriously gauge whether or not I am making progress....or backsliding.
I have had to examine myself...my motives and drives.....and realized a lot of things about myself that I don't like. Scratch that - - things I abhor. Things I do and then regret......things I don't do and then regret.
To the friends....I will still post on Unfortunate Serendipity..probably as much as always.....but, realize - the real me will be posting somewhere else....with no publicity. I have found that Unfortunate Serendipity has helped me along the way - - - but I haven't been truly honest and open. I skim over some things...and skip others I decide I don't want to share with the world. Unfortunate Serendipity has been my fun and entertaining missive to the world. Well, now I won't have that excuse. Sometimes the cruelty of the written word on a page is the wake-up call you need to rise from the ashes and become a different person. I sure hope so - - because I plan on being brutally honest with myself.
Only problem? I am not giving the address out to anyone. A-N-Y-O-N-E.
This is where I will let the real me emerge - - the place I don't have to worry about 'friend placement' or making sure someone gets a mention.
This is where I will also finally let those little cracks in my psyche show....and I think it will do me good to allow it.
No - this blog is not to get back at people...or to share gossip. It's to force myself to take a good, hard look at myself.....so that I can seriously gauge whether or not I am making progress....or backsliding.
I have had to examine myself...my motives and drives.....and realized a lot of things about myself that I don't like. Scratch that - - things I abhor. Things I do and then regret......things I don't do and then regret.
To the friends....I will still post on Unfortunate Serendipity..probably as much as always.....but, realize - the real me will be posting somewhere else....with no publicity. I have found that Unfortunate Serendipity has helped me along the way - - - but I haven't been truly honest and open. I skim over some things...and skip others I decide I don't want to share with the world. Unfortunate Serendipity has been my fun and entertaining missive to the world. Well, now I won't have that excuse. Sometimes the cruelty of the written word on a page is the wake-up call you need to rise from the ashes and become a different person. I sure hope so - - because I plan on being brutally honest with myself.
Sunday, February 06, 2005
Feline Fixation
I am intent on turning the temporary roommate's cat against him. It's a devious ploy. He's since gotten his own place...but the feline will be residing with me for an additional period of time. I just hope it is enough to implement my 'fall in love with aunt Jeri' plan.
So far, it's been going gangbusters. She's got a 'foot love' thing going on. She'll inch up to where your foot is resting on the carpet, then give it a gentle nudge with her head. If there is not an immediate response, then she gives a follow-up nudge. A HARD nudge, as if she is reminding you that yes, indeed, she is not a piece of furniture and she wants attention NOW. NOW. Yes, NOW.
If you still refuse to respond, she will bestow upon you a look of total and complete disdain - as in 'how can you be so dense?'.....and she'll then reach a paw out and playfully tap the bottom of your foot, to ensure it is awake and ready to respond.
At that point, with the foot ticklin', you can't keep still. And, you realize that if you don't move ahead with the kitty love, you will be the recipient of incessant foot tickling until you DO give the kitty love.
Amazingly - when she moved in, she only stayed in her carrier for a few hours, then began to explore the house. She has a fixation with the closet - most likely because she could probably get lost in the mounds of clothing all over the place. She also likes her 'under the bed' hiding place....though how she has managed to make it under and back out without being attacked by the monsters under the bed (YES, THEY DO EXIST) boggles me.
She's actually warmed up to me...and will hop up on the couch when I am watching TV or working. She's even managed to propel her bulk (all eighteen pounds of it) up onto the bed with me and enjoyed a few chapters of a Clive Cussler book. Well, I enjoyed the book..she enjoyed a back rub. I would have preferred a back rub myself...but she's not that talented.
Now that we have her 'dad' firmly ensconsed in his new casa a nice little distance away...I can concentrate on making her like me more. Somehow, I think it is a losing effort...but I'm gonna try.
Gotta go - more Superbowl commericals. Yeah...my head asplode.
So far, it's been going gangbusters. She's got a 'foot love' thing going on. She'll inch up to where your foot is resting on the carpet, then give it a gentle nudge with her head. If there is not an immediate response, then she gives a follow-up nudge. A HARD nudge, as if she is reminding you that yes, indeed, she is not a piece of furniture and she wants attention NOW. NOW. Yes, NOW.
If you still refuse to respond, she will bestow upon you a look of total and complete disdain - as in 'how can you be so dense?'.....and she'll then reach a paw out and playfully tap the bottom of your foot, to ensure it is awake and ready to respond.
At that point, with the foot ticklin', you can't keep still. And, you realize that if you don't move ahead with the kitty love, you will be the recipient of incessant foot tickling until you DO give the kitty love.
Amazingly - when she moved in, she only stayed in her carrier for a few hours, then began to explore the house. She has a fixation with the closet - most likely because she could probably get lost in the mounds of clothing all over the place. She also likes her 'under the bed' hiding place....though how she has managed to make it under and back out without being attacked by the monsters under the bed (YES, THEY DO EXIST) boggles me.
She's actually warmed up to me...and will hop up on the couch when I am watching TV or working. She's even managed to propel her bulk (all eighteen pounds of it) up onto the bed with me and enjoyed a few chapters of a Clive Cussler book. Well, I enjoyed the book..she enjoyed a back rub. I would have preferred a back rub myself...but she's not that talented.
Now that we have her 'dad' firmly ensconsed in his new casa a nice little distance away...I can concentrate on making her like me more. Somehow, I think it is a losing effort...but I'm gonna try.
Gotta go - more Superbowl commericals. Yeah...my head asplode.
Superbowl Sunday at home
I am sitting at home at 4:30pm on Superbowl Sunday. I am not feeling extremely social, thus my solitary celebration of the 'All-American Holiday'.
Part of it is the fact that I helped a group assist the temporary roommate in moving his assorted belongings to his new 'Zen Casa'.
So, the itch hit me today - - I wanted to clean...and clean...and hang up my 'pretties' - - my decorations. Yes, I know I moved in at the first of October, but I just couldn't make myself settle in. Now that I have marred the walls with nails - I feel at home. I am doing laundry and have scrubbed down the countertops. About to run that noisy dishwasher...and the refrigerator is quaking in fear because I am about to rip it apart and clean out anything in there that has developed the ability to think for itself or move independently of its container.
Why can't I get into the Superbowl this year? *sigh* I don't know. I am a Cowboys fan....so there is always a tiny bit of ambivalence when they don't make the big game. But - this year - I think it is because I am busy with work...and my house looks like a tiny tornado tore through it this week. So, to all my friends having Superbowl celebrations, I am sorry - but I think I am gonna celebrate 'clean'.....clean sheets...clean laundry...clean floors.
Oh, of course I am gonna watch the game...can't miss my commericals, you know.
Part of it is the fact that I helped a group assist the temporary roommate in moving his assorted belongings to his new 'Zen Casa'.
So, the itch hit me today - - I wanted to clean...and clean...and hang up my 'pretties' - - my decorations. Yes, I know I moved in at the first of October, but I just couldn't make myself settle in. Now that I have marred the walls with nails - I feel at home. I am doing laundry and have scrubbed down the countertops. About to run that noisy dishwasher...and the refrigerator is quaking in fear because I am about to rip it apart and clean out anything in there that has developed the ability to think for itself or move independently of its container.
Why can't I get into the Superbowl this year? *sigh* I don't know. I am a Cowboys fan....so there is always a tiny bit of ambivalence when they don't make the big game. But - this year - I think it is because I am busy with work...and my house looks like a tiny tornado tore through it this week. So, to all my friends having Superbowl celebrations, I am sorry - but I think I am gonna celebrate 'clean'.....clean sheets...clean laundry...clean floors.
Oh, of course I am gonna watch the game...can't miss my commericals, you know.
Habaneroooooouuuuch
When the weather got cold this past week - - I decided I needed to make some chili. The temporary roommate was all for it - and reminded me of his affinity for hot and spicy foods.
To that end, I hit the supermarket and proceeded to gather the ingredients for some world-class chili. Arbol, serrano and habaneros - - - I didn't discriminate. I picked up some of each.
I sauteed some chopped habaneros, serrano and arbol peppers and added them to the mix with the usual ingredients. After simmering, I decided a taste-test was in order. Um......hhhooooootttt. So, to cut the initial 'bang' I mixed in eight ounces of sour cream. It did an amazing job of toning down the initial heat. Of course, it was a misleading little thing. You get the initial flavor of the chili, smooth and quite rich. But, wait for it....wait....wait. Yep - ten seconds later, your mouth is on fire.
I was quite proud of myself. I am such a mischievous chef.
Update: Scrub your hands very, very carefully if you undertake the habanero endeavor. Let's just say my eyes were smarting for two days - because I kept rubbing them.
To that end, I hit the supermarket and proceeded to gather the ingredients for some world-class chili. Arbol, serrano and habaneros - - - I didn't discriminate. I picked up some of each.
I sauteed some chopped habaneros, serrano and arbol peppers and added them to the mix with the usual ingredients. After simmering, I decided a taste-test was in order. Um......hhhooooootttt. So, to cut the initial 'bang' I mixed in eight ounces of sour cream. It did an amazing job of toning down the initial heat. Of course, it was a misleading little thing. You get the initial flavor of the chili, smooth and quite rich. But, wait for it....wait....wait. Yep - ten seconds later, your mouth is on fire.
I was quite proud of myself. I am such a mischievous chef.
Update: Scrub your hands very, very carefully if you undertake the habanero endeavor. Let's just say my eyes were smarting for two days - because I kept rubbing them.
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Mahna Mahna
I have developed the weirdest fixation with the little Muppet "Mahna Mahna" song. Seriously, go Google it and watch it. You'll remember it. I managed to find the ringer and stick it up on 3gupload. Yes, I assigned it to one of my friends - the one who showed me the "Mahna Mahna" clip in the first place. It's his comeuppance for giving me the melodic earworm that tormented me for two whole days. Though, now it is truly funny - - when my cell phone goes off at work, I find myself inserting the necessary "Mahna Mahna" while fumbling to flip the darn thing open. I have noticed a few other coworkers hum along to it, too. Just like another member of our staff - who has an equally recognizable ringtone. I think mine is gonna have a shelf life of a week or so before the novelty wears off.
Sitting at home tonight - - sudsing up the dirty clothes and trying to convince myself that lights out prior to 10pm is a good idea. So far, it ain't working. There's something within my DNA that is screaming 'You old fart! If you tuck in prior to 10:00 you might as well get ready for the assisted living facility!' I'm trying really hard to drown out that little voice with some Elvis T. Busboy and the Texas Blues Butchers. And, so far - Elvis and the boys are doing a good job of squashing that incessant, whiny part of my psyche.
Speaking of ETB - friends and I went to their show on Friday night down at Deep Ellum Blues. It was fantastic - even if one of my dear friends had to bribe them in order to ensure I got to hear my favorite song - - which is a rollickin', raucous little number guaranteed to get you going - - along with everyone else in the room. John Sprott, the lead guitarist, climbed up on two chairs and 'walked' them back and forth in front of the stage, never missing a beat.
I wholeheartedly give them two thumbs up - - going back in March when they're at Deep Ellum Blues again.
Anyways, ladies, gents and Chris ('cause I KNOW you're reading this...), this girl has laundry calling, and the last half of 'Collateral' to watch.
Sitting at home tonight - - sudsing up the dirty clothes and trying to convince myself that lights out prior to 10pm is a good idea. So far, it ain't working. There's something within my DNA that is screaming 'You old fart! If you tuck in prior to 10:00 you might as well get ready for the assisted living facility!' I'm trying really hard to drown out that little voice with some Elvis T. Busboy and the Texas Blues Butchers. And, so far - Elvis and the boys are doing a good job of squashing that incessant, whiny part of my psyche.
Speaking of ETB - friends and I went to their show on Friday night down at Deep Ellum Blues. It was fantastic - even if one of my dear friends had to bribe them in order to ensure I got to hear my favorite song - - which is a rollickin', raucous little number guaranteed to get you going - - along with everyone else in the room. John Sprott, the lead guitarist, climbed up on two chairs and 'walked' them back and forth in front of the stage, never missing a beat.
I wholeheartedly give them two thumbs up - - going back in March when they're at Deep Ellum Blues again.
Anyways, ladies, gents and Chris ('cause I KNOW you're reading this...), this girl has laundry calling, and the last half of 'Collateral' to watch.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
The Divorce Support Group Meets Here....
Yes, there really is such a thing. And we meet at my casa at 7:00pm on Thursday nights.
Ok - so it isn't as much of a group as it is just me and Ben and Mike, sitting around and watching movies and having dinner together. But, we still have fun.
Tonight Villa d'Freeman will be serving Lasagna (of the Stouffer's variety) and we will be immersing ourselves in the cultural phenomenon known as AVP: Alien vs. Predator. (Yeah, right...do you actually think I get to pick the movie? There are TWO MEN in the group.)
Ben's got the tenure on the divorce thing.....his has been final since mid-July. Mine's been over and done with since August 16th....and Mike's will be final tomorrow. So, tonight is gonna be the last night of 'innocence' for Mike. Can't say that I want to be in his shoes tomorrow. (Mike, hope you're not reading this tonight.)
Still, as much as I hate the thought of anyone going through a divorce, it is a comfort to have friends who have been there/done that...and have the piece of paper to prove it. We all concur that it's difficult to make the conscious switch from calling someone your 'wife' or 'husband'. And that's only the tip of the iceberg.
I still have to stop myself at times from dialing Todd up to share a piece of news. I have literally stopped myself in mid-sentence on a few occasions, saying 'Well, my husband and I......' Wish the judge could flip a switch at the end of the divorce hearing...and make you truly 'divorced'. I still don't feel that way sometimes.
Ok - so it isn't as much of a group as it is just me and Ben and Mike, sitting around and watching movies and having dinner together. But, we still have fun.
Tonight Villa d'Freeman will be serving Lasagna (of the Stouffer's variety) and we will be immersing ourselves in the cultural phenomenon known as AVP: Alien vs. Predator. (Yeah, right...do you actually think I get to pick the movie? There are TWO MEN in the group.)
Ben's got the tenure on the divorce thing.....his has been final since mid-July. Mine's been over and done with since August 16th....and Mike's will be final tomorrow. So, tonight is gonna be the last night of 'innocence' for Mike. Can't say that I want to be in his shoes tomorrow. (Mike, hope you're not reading this tonight.)
Still, as much as I hate the thought of anyone going through a divorce, it is a comfort to have friends who have been there/done that...and have the piece of paper to prove it. We all concur that it's difficult to make the conscious switch from calling someone your 'wife' or 'husband'. And that's only the tip of the iceberg.
I still have to stop myself at times from dialing Todd up to share a piece of news. I have literally stopped myself in mid-sentence on a few occasions, saying 'Well, my husband and I......' Wish the judge could flip a switch at the end of the divorce hearing...and make you truly 'divorced'. I still don't feel that way sometimes.