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:

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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!'

Yes, I know...I have a life outside the dog. But let me revel in being a 'doggy mommy' for a few more days. Topher's in his big basket...which I covered with a blanket. He went to work with me today. Yes...

HE. WENT. TO. WORK.

With me.

Oh, gosh. I'm just gonna stop typing right now.

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.

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.

My mother holding Topher - - He's looking a little tired....

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?

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

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.

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.)

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!

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.

'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.

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.

...... a cautionary tale.....

Being noble is overrated, my friend.

....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

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.)

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Per doctor's orders, I took today off. Well, kinda. Um...well, I did leave work at 2pm. I had to run payroll and take care of things at the office...then I came home to nap and vegetate in my comfy bed, surrounded by my Kleenex mountain and NyQuil river.

Anyway - - - my buddy from Abilene, Chris (proud new papa) has finally started his own personal blog....and through that, I managed to find another blog - from a different member of the Abilene crew, Greg.

I have to tell you - - it's refreshing to get to peek into their lives once again. And it makes me remember what I miss so much about 'home'.

Not again......

Ok...this being sick crap is for the birds.

It has to have something to do with being a recent DFW arrival. Maybe my body hasn't acclimated to the allergens and such here. This is, by far, the most I have ever been sick in my entire life.

And we're talking that run-down, scratchy-burning throat....ears hurting....stiff neck and shoulders.....sinus pressure like you're diving underwater type stuff. Those deep, rending coughs that serve only to remind you that you do indeed still have chest and stomach muscles.....and they hate you. Yes...my abs scream in pain every time a new round of coughing begins...and I feel as though someone has taken to my ribs with a baseball bat.

I lie exhausted, once the coughing fit passes...taking tiny sips of air, for anything larger brings on yet another coughing attack. I groan and then look at the clock, and I thank God if it has been more than fifteen minutes since the last attack. If I can sleep for more than ten minutes....I call it a miracle.

I am groggy, dispirited and just want to put my head down and cry.

But, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. My doc gave me muchas medication....with strict instructions to stay home and recuperate. (uh...I have to run payroll...I will rest AFTER that is done.)

Anyway....on a GOOD note:

• Welcome back to the States to both Robert and Jeremy....two of my military friends. Robert's back in the Killeen area and Jeremy is settling in quite nicely back in ol' Abilene.
• I am THISCLOSE to getting a puppy. Chocolate Lab...female. Need ideas for names, people....otherwise that dog is gonna be stuck with the moniker 'Godiva'.

The neighbor boy is back......

Yay. Ben's back in Texas....though he's missing out by not being my neighbor boy. At least he's out of the ghetto-ito in Irving...though he took a roundabout way of doing that.......from Irving to Garland...by way of Key West, Florida. Only Ben.

Well, just about the time I think I feel better, I end up with the grungies again. Scratchy throat, tight chest. Ugh. Yucky. More NyQuil for me!

So glad the week has come again......

This past weekend was one for the record books. One of those where you are GLAD when the week rolls around again.

I usually like to have a day...or even a portion of a day...in which to rest and relax. A 'recharge' day - a period of time that I devote to clearing my mind and my schedule and simply re-energizing my body and psyche for the coming week.

This weekend was definitely not one of those weekends.

It all started out with David Allen Coe. (Isn't that always how it starts out?) Anyway - I had not seen DAC live in about eight years...not since I was living in Abilene. My boyfriend at the time was dying to see him - - so off we trekked to City Limits in Stephenville to watch him and Robert Earl Keen, Jr. in concert. Needless to say - that was back in the heyday of DAC's 'lack of lucidity' phase - - which was in and of itself, quite a blast to watch.

Well, DAC Round Two was amazing. The man may have mellowed slightly (and I emphasize SLIGHTLY) with age. But he still has his edge. And he has legions of new fans.....especially those he has gained through his work with Kid Rock and Uncle Kracker...not to mention his friendship with the late 'Dimebag' Darrell Abbott, formerly of Pantera and Damageplan. DAC even played the guitar made for him by Dimebag. Never thought I'd hear DAC rap - - - but he did. He covered some of his old material - - "You Never Even Called Me By My Name" (though only a brief chorus). I could go on and on......but that was only the beginning of the weekend.

Saturday night was a great follow-up. Styx in concert. I have been hoping for a chance to see them in concert for close to 15 years (Yeah...I see you doing the math. Let me make it easy for you......uh huh, I was 14 when I fell in love with their music.) I finally got the chance on Saturday night. At Billy Bob's, believe it or not! I was caught up in all the good ol' Styx rock. My buddy Mike, who graciously agreed to attend with me, was actually having fun.....I think. I bounced around like a giddy schoolgirl. Yup...they played some 'Mr. Roboto'...at which I burst forth with peals of laughter. I really wanted them to play one specific song - - but I was sad they didn't choose to include it in their playlist. Well - life can't always be perfect. Plus - it's much more of a ballad, and I guess it didn't lend itself to the environment and the crowd that night. (But, they did a fun little a capella version of 'Deep in the Heart of Texas' that had total crowd involvement. That's right - I said 'Deep in the Heart of Texas', sung by Styx. What has the world come to?)

One of the funniest moments of the night was upon arriving at Billy Bob's. Mike and I were about to get out of my truck - and we were joking about the wide 'range' of people coming to see the concert. He made reference to 'That Guy'.....I began to look around the parking lot - - trying to see just who he was looking at. It took him about five minutes to explain that 'That Guy' is a generalization.......'That Guy' is the one who shows up in his original 1970's era vintage Styx t-shirt...a person who lives and breathes the zen that is Styx. I giggled inside all night as I looked for 'That Guy' in the crowd. Um.......maybe I am 'That Girl'.

Sunday found me riding in a Chevy Trailblazer, heading east on I20, with my family. I endured three hours of the following:

Him: 'Slug Bug Yellow' (followed by a pounding on Her left arm and punctuated by Her protest)
Her: 'It doesn't count! It wasn't moving!'
and moments later....
Her: 'PT Cruiser Bruiser Purple!' (emphasized with a punch to His right shoulder)
quickly followed by....
Him: 'Hummer Bummer Black' (with a resounding smack against Her upper arm)

The game quickly progressed to multiple hits based on specific colors, penalties for forgetting to declare the color of said offensive vehicles, etc. You almost wanted to separate the kids....except they weren't kids........

They were my 26-year old brother and my 51-year old mother. I'll take my nephews any day of the week.

My mom, brother, sister and sister-in-law all headed to Bossier City on Sunday to spend a little 'quality family time' gambling. I lost my shirt (well - actually - only about $40) right off the bat...then my tired little butt hit the hotel room and slept. Fitting end to a jam-packed weekend.

Next time, I think I am gonna have to pace myself.

Socks on the Autobahn

Yeah...........

Lip Gloss in Review

OK...told ya I was gonna update you on the lip gloss review.

1. Creme Brulee - the winner and still champ. Resounding positive reviews and endorsements. I have had a number of taste-testers (no kissing, mind you - - just them trying it out of the tube.)

2. Cinnamon Frosting - a solid second. Very shimmery...with copper glints. A little bit spicy and rich. Great for a little more depth.

3. Chocolate Fondue - by far, it's my least favorite. That doesn't mean it isn't awesome...but the scent overpowers the flavor....which is reminiscent of mocha brownies. Extremely rich..almost too rich to wear. Use sparingly...and only in moments of deep chocolate craving (at least four times a day).

Bath and Body Works. Tutti Dolce. Going back to buy the entire Creme Brulee line - - including the perfume and body souffle. Let ya know how that works out.

I HAVE GRADUATED FROM BLOGGER KINDERGARTEN....

Yes....I want my paper mortarboard hat and my fake little diploma. I can now post pictures. Don't ask me to edit any html myself, yet. That's like...getting a PhD.

For those of you who have sent messages and email....here is a face to put with the incessant rambling.



Here - headed out to be with my friends on New Year's Eve 2004


Running around and shopping in DFW, December 2004


Relaxing at the townhome in Abilene, April 2004

I shall be learning more...and getting better. Onward and upward, my friends. I expect to graduate from Blogger High sometime this year. Just call me Doogie Howser, MD. Except that I am not an MD.....and I am almost 30. Ok...I am a remedial dope. Take your pick.

Happy New Year!!!

Happy 2005 to one and all. And, as I heard intimated last night, 'May it sucketh less than 2004'.
Just kidding. This past year has been a banner year for me in many ways. That isn't to say that I haven't had my low points. If you have read this blog - you know I have.

But, I am thankful - I have my families, a great job, unbelievable friends....and Creme Brulee lip gloss.

What else could a girl ask for?

What I am Listening To At The Moment

Wow. That pretty much describes it for me. I am usually not one who enjoys celebrities who decide they should shove their musical aspirations down our throats.

But, I truly think that RDJ's foray is an exception to the rule. Now, I will NEVER, EVER own a Paris Hilton compilation or anything as absurd as that.........

I urge anyone who hasn't checked it out - - do it now.

I am in LOVE

Ok...maybe 'luv'. Yeah.....LLLLLLLLLUUUUUUUUUUVVVVVVVVVVV.

The object of my affection? Tutti Dolci lip gloss. The Creme Brulee flavor, in fact. The scent is heavenly...and the flavor - - absolutely amazing. I can't put the stuff down - - I tried, I swear. I reach into my purse every ten minutes or so to put it back on.

On top of tasting great - it has some seriously strong mosturizers - some mango butter, etc.

I got mine for Christmas from my little sister. She bought them for me and my sisters-in-law. They got the Sugar Wafer and Angel Food Cake versions.

I am so enamored with them that I went back to Bath and Body Works tonight to buy the three-pack myself. Sadly, they were out of that - - but they had the singles. They had Lemon Meringue...but I am not a Lemon Girl. I decided to live on the edge and buy another Creme Brulee (I know, I know - but I am seriously considering stockpiling the stuff). I bought a Cinnamon Frosting version and a Chocolate Fondue flavor, too. I'll let ya know how those work out.

Wen I got in there - you could have knocked me over with a feather. They have PERFUME in those scents...and honey baths....and - - catch this - - Body Souffles. It took so much willpower for me not to buy everything in Creme Brulee I could find. It's just so decadent. A male buddy of mine got a taste of the Creme Brulee the other night (no you perverts.....I put a little bit of lip gloss from the tube onto his finger)....and he said with the way that tasted...well, I won't go there. Let's just say he's seriously considering the merits of wearing lip gloss....he just can't rationalize it since it would make his lips shiny.

aaaaaaaaaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwwww........

Congrats to Chris (the 'son' my mother is glad she never had......my bestest guy friend in Abilene) and Emily (the sweetest, most wonderful woman...and the best thing to ever happen to Chris) on the birth of Ezekiel Christopher on Wednesday, December 15th.

I had been calling Chris every couple of days....and upon answering his phone, all I would say is, 'Baby?'....to which he would sigh and reply, "Not yet.....doc says any day now." I didn't get all the dish, 'cause Chris was sleep-deprived and slightly giddy.........

Seems Zeke decided to take his sweet time and cause his momma some discomfort...but he's here and we're all thrilled! Blessings to the new little family......and I am sure that Bella and Cameron (the dogs) will adjust just fine!

*crickets chirping*

Yeah...that's the sound you are hearing.....sorry I haven't posted in the last two and a half weeks. Apologies galore. Wait, noone reads this thing - so I guess it doesn't matter.

Let me 'splain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up. Buttercup is marry' Humperdinck in little less than half an hour.......

Wait. Scratch that. I'm back to quoting lines from movies....

Let's see.....

• I got a year older
• My sis spent the weekend here
• I love Rosemary Mint and Eucalyptus linen spray from the Fusion Factory
• I got sick
• I got a little better
• My neighbor boy moved (darn you ben....now who is gonna scare away the baddies?)
• I am taking applications for new neighbor boys/fellow chipotle lovers/fans of sick and twisted comedy
• I got some Christmas shopping done
• I didn't get enough shopping done
• I got my new driver's license in (ugh)
• I went home and helped cater all last weekend
• I finished all of the planning for the company holiday luncheon and it was held today

And Jerilyn gazed upon her world and said, "It is Good."

Not really, but I made it through another week.

Now THIS is why I love DFW.....

Bright and early this morning, I found myself shopping at Ann Taylor. EARLY - - as in 7:30 - - that is A.M., people. This coming from the girl who cherishes every moment of sleep she can get, and squeezes an additional six minutes of sleep in after slamming the snooze button on the alarm. Then six more minutes of precious slumber after a second battle with the snooze button....and while at it, yet another six minutes......ad nauseum. You get the picture.

But this morning's opportunity was too good to pass up. Being in HR has its perks - as in vendors who make sure to deliver the swag around holiday time. Said vendor (who shall remain nameless) arranged for Ann Taylor to open early for a group of HR professionals. Special thanks to Ann Taylor for the 15% discount on my purchases and to the vendor for caffeine and the additional inducement to shop (in the form of gift cards.......show me the money, baby!).

I went in, firmly repeating the following statement in my serious voice, "I will NOT purchase anything.....I WILL not purchase anything....I WILL NOT purchase anything.....I will not purchase ANYTHING."

I did not purchase ANYTHING. (Ok, I did buy things...but not just ANYTHING. But that is how I am rationalizing my shopping spree. Well, not spree.....just a minor shopping spurt.)

I was drawn to one outfit and orbited around it......a stunning hand-knit, hip-length ivory cashmere turtleneck with a pair of gorgeous ivory pants. The outfit was topped off with a beautiful winter white cashmere/wool blend overcoat. A beautiful ivory cashmere wrap was draped over the shoulders, held in place with an eye-catching gold and pearl brooch. A jaunty angora hat added the final, perfect touch.

I did the math in my head quickly - trying to be as inconspicuous as possible. I had to take a moment to compose myself so that I did not fall over in a dead faint. Ready? Try $818.00...and that is before tax.

Oh, well. I guess I can always be proud of the fashion sense I do have. Some consolation prize, huh? There was no way I was going to drop that kind of money on an immaculate outfit that would inevitably get dirty within 60 seconds of me putting it on for the first time. (Deep sigh)

I did well for myself, though. My initial pick was a knee-length navy boucle skirt....cute and professional. Then I saw the matching jacket. I couldn't take one home and leave the other to languish....and I just couldn't make myself buy both. So - the skirt went back on the rack.

Next thing I seriously considered was a black angora wrap sweater. But, in the end.....I didn't like the length and realized that I would have to wear something beneath it unless I was willing to show off more of my assets than I am comfortable displaying. (The infamous black top I bought a couple of weeks ago has been retired for that very reason - so if you didn't see it on it's one memorable night out - then you're outta luck.)

Well, I did fall in love with an ivory v-neck angora sweater....absolutely beautiful. It was whispering to me...softly at first. Then it got pretty darn insistent. It WAS going to come home with me.

Then I heard the call of a beautiful scarf.....an off-white wool blend with grey satin ribbon fringe. It practically jumped off the table into my hands and curled itself securely around the sweater. I have to say, it was quite ingenious in doing so - - it knew it belonged there.

As I was heading towards the register....I heard a tiny whimper from the shoe rack. I had to go over there. Anyone who knows me well is aware of my desire to ensure that every pair of shoes on earth finds a loving family. I am proud to declare that I support shoe adoption.....today was no exception. An adorable pair of black mules with a tiny 2 1/2 inch heel followed me to the register.

The damage? The sweater was only $80.00........the scarf was originally $100.00, but on sale for $50.....and the shoes? I am so proud of them. They had an original price of $100.00, but proudly presented themselves with a $30.00 price tag.

Add in my two $25 gift cards....and the $280.00 'shopping spurt' set me back less than $100!!! Yay! Happy Early Birthday to me!

Happy Turkey Day

What? It's November 30th? Oh, yeah...guess so. Thanksgiving was last week - and I escaped the world of technology and went back to the farm. Wow...that sounds so country.

I went home...to mom, dad, my sibs....etc. But, we don't have 'Thanksgiving' in the traditional sense. We have a catering business...so Thanksgiving was a whirlwind of activity....we catered dinner for one of the college football teams.....it's been a tradition for us since my little brother played for them. These kids, after making the playoffs, can't leave and go home for the holiday. So, we bring the holiday to them. Traditional turkey and dressing...the whole nine yards. It's fun......these kids love it. And, in the past few years, some parents have made the decision to sacrifice their traditional Thanksgiving dinner and travel to be with their children.......and we love having them there.

I finally got to my grandparent's house at about 3pm. Celebrated Thanksgiving with my them and spent time with my aunts, uncles and cousins. Then, at 5pm, I made it to my home. And had a late dinner with my sibs and their assorted significant others and my nephews. And we celebrated our birthdays. Yes, I said 'birthdays'. My two brothers and I all have birthdays within one week of each other. So, we had a little birthday party all together. I wasn't expecting it, really...but it was fun.

My mom gets major points...got me a cute pair of jeans with a flirty pearl and satin belt and a gorgeous pink scoop-necked sweater trimmed with rabbit fur (sorry PETA).

My little sis gave me the most gorgeous sheer silk beaded poncho. Gorgeous - it goes great with jeans...can't wait to wear it out. Always love getting pretty new clothes!

Don't need nothin' but a good time

Last night was fun. Really - it was. And props to my friends and I because we did something fun that actually benefitted a good cause.

Last night, at the Resistol Arena in Mesquite, we attended the 3rd Annual Guns and Hoses Boxing Tournament, benefitting the Guns and Hoses Foundation - which helps support a number of worthy charities in the metroplex, as well as the creation of a benevolent fund for the families of police officers and firefighters killed while in the line of duty.

We were a part of the SMU Police Department group. Yeah, I know I don't work for them and have no affiliation with them...but I have friends who work there - - Patty and Wendy. Their chief bought box tickets and they asked if we wanted to attend with them.

It was quite fun. Very entertaining. I could have done without the Coyote Ugly girls dancing in the ring between bouts....but that's just me. Especially since a couple of them had limited rhythm to begin with. I can pinpoint the reasons for their inclusion in the squad - blond, boobs and booty. That sums it up. By far, the most talented and most attractive one (according to both my buddy and I) was a dark haired one named 'Jonesy'. The girl actually had some curves on her - and some moves - - as well as more personality than the other four put together. So, thumbs up to Jonesy....the only one I liked.

The boxing was interesting. I had never been to a boxing tournament (I am not counting the frequent bouts that occurred between my sibs and I growing up) and I was curious to see if I was actually going to enjoy it. On TV, it doesn't appeal to me. Live, though? Yeah...watching boxing live is actually fun.

All fighters were amateurs, and members of the fire or police departments in cities around the metroplex. There were some good fights (the Dallas PD rookie who gave a serious beat down to a poor firefighter - - drew blood almost instantly - - and had the match called in his favor at the beginning of the second round because his opponent was pretty incoherent by that point) to the match we dubbed 'Butterbean 1 vs Butterbean 2'. The only match I didn't like was their 'title' match between a 56 year old police officer and a 66 year old retired firefighter turned actor. The 66 year old seemed to turn his ankle at the beginning and went down numerous times. I wanted the 56 year old police officer to call off -- but he didn't.

Anyway - afterwards, eleven of us went to Ozona and had a late dinner (late...as in midnight) and sat around and shot the breeze. The only thing I hate about hitting a place like that late on a Saturday night is the drunks who obviously need to be at home, but who insist on remaining in public. One intoxicated idiot was throwing chairs over on the far side of the patio - then came over to where we were and and started giving crap to a guy at a table behind ours. Next thing you know, the drunk had a bloody nose, the waitstaff were out trying to diffuse a highly tense situation and a girl was screaming that she was 'calling the cops'. he he he Funny, ya know - since half of our table carry badges and some carry weapons (at last count, no one sans badge is in possession of a firearm).

Well, I must wrap up now. Need to get some laundry done. Went shopping for jeans - walked in and bought the same style and size I always do - - - only to get home and find that they're too loose. Nice problem to have - so gonna try to shrink 'em!

I mean....I always wanted to be a princess....

But.... TWO CROWNS? (of the dental type.....)

Yes, I am the proud recipient of two crowns....temporary ones. I have to wait until December 7 to get the permanent ones. I was not prepared for how badly my mouth hurt.....and I woke up this morning after a fitful hour of sleep and realized I was in more pain than I was the day before.

So, today was my first sick day....five months on the job....I was wanting to make it a full year with no sick days. But I couldn't concentrate on anything but the pain in my mouth. Some medication...and I slept all day long. I woke up at 6pm. Mouth still hurts, but not as badly.

I am awake now...and cooking a turkey. I know it is not Thanksgiving yet. But I am finally a little hungry - - and I want turkey. So, there is a 16lb turkey in my oven, browning to perfection. I am gonna take it to work. It's the least I can do after abandoning them today.

WARMTH.......

I would have to say that Sunday afternoon and evening could be classified as 'a good time was had by all'.

Late lunch at Hooters with Ben and Mike and Tonya. It was pretty cold, and drizzling outside...but that didn't stop me from having tons of iced tea. I was one cold little person by the the time we all headed out. It's time to retire the flip-flops. Darn it....and they are sooooo comfortable.

Headed to the store with Ben, picking up the items necessary to make some homemade fudge. I don't know what it is about this weather....but I get the irresistable urge to 'nest' and cook.....totally turn into a domestic goddess. Laundry meets its match, I light spiced-scented candles and I get serious about kitchen-related tasks.

I finally operated my dishwasher for the first time on Sunday. Or, I should say....I turned it on and then ran for cover. It sounded like it was about to achieve escape velocity and shoot upwards, never to be seen again. Gotta love appliances in apartment complexes. Hope my neighbors weren't planning on a quiet Sunday afternoon.

Anyway - I made some pretty darn good fudge. I took it to work today - and it was all gone within a couple of hours. I was chewed out by a few of the women...for bringing something chocolate to the office. Seems we all have that kind of chocolate craving...we can't pass it up.

Ben made turtle brownies. I am liking this neighbor thing. It's nice to show up at a neighbor's door to borrow the proverbial 'cup of sugar'. In our case, Ben needed vegetable oil...and I needed unsalted butter.

Went to see 'After the Sunset' last night with Ben, Mike, Tonya and Joe. I wasn't expecting much out of the movie. I was pleasantly surprised because I did have such low expectations. It was actually ok. Two and a half stars on the Freeman Review. There were some funny one-liners....and the obligatory two men in a bed scene. I can't say that I am a Pierce Brosnan fan....he's getting old - and furry. Not my style. But Woody Harrelson is still cute in a mischievous way. And - the boys sure do like Selma Hayek.

Ok...I am through rambling. I am thinking tonight is the perfect night to break in the fireplace. I am off to get some flammable material!

Brrrrr......

I am a summer girl. I like nothing more than 95-degree weather...putting the top down on my convertible..and hitting the road. God bless sunburned noses and excellent driving music.

So, this 'changing of the seasons' thing is really not working for me. Forty-four flippin' degrees? Huh-uh, no way. My toes start shivering if it drops below seventy-five. This chica does not like being cold. Period. End of discussion.

Okay - so there are some good things about the weather being cold.....like roaring fires in the fireplace, cuddling up with The Special Someone and enjoying a relaxing evening. Hold on.....what is this? What do you mean I have no Special Someone? Darn...I knew I was missing part of that equation. Even more reason to dislike the cold weather.

Remember those protecting us today...

Just a quick note to say "Hello" and "Thank You" to those servicemen and servicewomen across the world tonight.

I have a number of good friends in the military - scattered to the four winds.

To Eric, in England....I still have your copy of Amadeus. Sue me. Just kidding. I promise to mail it to you, as soon as I get your address. Hope you're having fun pulling European trim. It was fun running around this summer in my convertible, listening to good radio.

To Bob in Iraq...new friend. Thanks for the words of encouragement. You're a blast!

To Jeremy, also playing in the world's largest sandbox...my little 'metro'. You were a great friend back in Abilene. Sorry about it being so tough for us to hang out....but thanks for helping rescue the felines, buddy. Get your butt home, soon. We need a Pier 1 trip......Tuscan Herb candles. Joe's Pizza and Pasta. Sounds like a plan to me.

There are many more friends....and I will address each in turn!

So...for those of you comfortable and safe in your homes tonight....say a little prayer for people like my friends here, who protect you day and night.

If you're from Bangs....I don't like you any longer

Ok....I gave my convertible to my mother. That's common knowledge now. Well...mom let my 24 year old sister take it to Brownwood, where my brother lives.

Ok....my brother coaches for Early. Early played Bangs. Big rivalry.

The casualty? My Sebring. Yeah...my sister parked it in front of my brother's house. So, it was the target of idiots out egging.

How did I find out? I called my sis to catch up on Saturday...and she asked in a really meek little voice, 'Have you talked to mom or dad yet?'

'No,' I responded.

'Well, don't freak out......' she warned me.......(don't freak out? Don't Freak Out? FREAK OUT? ME? WHAT? FREAK? ME FREAK OUT?!?!?!?!?)

After prodding her for a couple of minutes...she relayed the egging incident...but quickly added, 'We got it all cleaned up.'

Then a really terrifying thought occurred to me......'Um, you didn't....please tell me that you...' I couldn't bring myself to even ask.

'Yeah, ' she responded. 'I left the top down.'

YOU LEFT THE TOP DOWN? Ok......thank goodness the filter between my mind and mouth was in good working order..otherwise Sister Feud IV would have been in full swing. But, still......the interior of my convertible was egged...as was the exterior.

I calmed down gradually...and even managed NOT to cry. I am a little bit proud of that.
It looks like the car will be ok....it has been detailed...and hopefully there will be no ongoing issues or problems due to the incident.

Oh, but if you're from Bangs.....and you have been egging recently....you might want to watch out for one seriously upset woman in a Chevy Avalanche. You've been warned.

In your eyes..the light, the heat....in your - - - WHAT?

Ok. I love the Peter Gabriel song "In Your Eyes". That's no secret....neither is my intention to marry John Cusack the second he shows up outside my home, raising a boombox above his head, blasting that song for me..................oh, sorry - lost my train of thought there. I'm back now, fully present.

Anyway, was sitting over at Ben's house on Saturday night - - watching the first game of the World Series. I have to admit this - I didn't even show up until the seventh inning. Sorry. I had other things to do...and I am just not a fan of the Red Sox...and definitely not a Cards fan, either. I was cleaning my house. It needed it.

Well....I watched the last two innings at casa de Ben-ha-meanie. At the end of the game, when things were being wrapped up, Ben said, "Hey, do you hear that?" and we all got quiet and turned to the tube. Sure enough. There was my song. At least, the lyrics....and I could somewhat recognize the melody. BUT, there was something seriously wrong with my song. Unless Peter Gabriel has decided to revisit his old standard.

Nope. Turns out it is SR-71. I finally went and downloaded it (legally, thank you very much) and listened to it a few times....trying to see if the new version is simply an acquired taste. Not so much. I tried...I really did. I mean...two rounds of Korn's cover of Cameo's 'Word Up' and I was mouthing the words and bobbing my head while driving down the road (yeah....that was me, I am not too proud to admit it.)

But, no matter how much I try, I can't seem to develop a liking for SR-71's version of 'In Your Eyes'. That's one that I just don't think you CAN improve on.

But, I will have to say this...and I am embarassed to have to admit it. I wasn't familiar with the 'Tessie' tradition until Saturday night. My friends introduced me to the Dropkick Murphys' version that night......and I learned the lore behind it. And, I just rolled on the floor when they started playing it after the game.

Man...I just love the World Series...if only for the entertainment on the fringe.

The world has lost a great man.....

I haven't blogged on this yet.....but I was truly shocked and saddened when I learned of the death of Dr. Charles Trevathan. Dr. Trevathan.....or 'Dr. T'.....was a wonderful professor and a great Christian man.

He was hard, but fair.....brilliant, but extremely grounded.

To Phyllis and the girls, all I can say is...

My life has forever been altered in the most wonderful way because of Dr. Trevathan.

And, for anyone who might read this and either remember him or want to learn of this man's wonderful life and how he affected so many in such a way, please visit the page created to honor his memory by ACU.

Blessings to the Trevathan family, and the extended family of faculty, staff and students at Abilene Christian University.

Just call me crash......

I knew it was coming...yep. You know how it is....you get a new car. You love it. You just can't get enough of the 'new-ness' of it.

Then you get your first little ding. The honeymoon's over.

Except, in my case....this isn't just a 'ding'. It's a whopping crack in the right side of the front bumper. How did I do this, you ask? Why, it was simple.

Take one frazzled girl, running a little late for work.
Add one mocha frappuchino (for the extra caffeine 'jitters')
and..while you're at it....a dash of a nice, yellow barricade-type pole.

Score?
Yellow pole - 1
Avalanche - 0

Ok, not so much of a big deal...I didn't hit it as much as I gave it a little 'kiss' while pulling into my parking spot at work. But, the manager of the North Texas Region was out there, and saw it happen. I think I fulfilled my job duties for the day by being a dose of comic relief. My work here is done, I thought. I can go home now.

For those of you who have driven an Avalanche - you understand what I am talking about. They don't exactly corner like they are on rails. I THOUGHT I had enough clearance to whip it into the open space.....but I guess I was still in Chrysler Sebring mode. (Must remind self what vehicle I am driving...to compensate for manueverability.)

I called my dad, who made the appropriate sympathetic noises and asked the dad-standard questions?

'How much is your deductible?'
'Have you gotten an estimate?'
'How bad is it?'
'Does it really need to be replaced, or can it be fixed?'
All the while, I can see the little fluffy bubble above his head....thoughts of relief....because he is no longer financially responsible for my auto escapades.

Anyway - DO YOU KNOW HOW EXPENSIVE IT IS TO REPLACE THAT STUPID PLASTIC BUMPER? Try about $600.00.......yes.....six HUNDRED dollars. I kinda felt like the estimator was pulling a Dr. Evil on me...I was just waiting for the obligatory pinkie flip and the 'Muah ha ha ha!' that I KNEW was coming. No luck.

So, no more mocha frappuchinos for this chick. Well, not in the morning. Well, not on work mornings. Um, not on work mornings when I might be cutting it close because I stopped for a mocha frappuchino. Hmmm, let's just forget it. I'm still gonna get 'em.

While I grouse about this, there are bigger and more important things going on around this little rock we call Earth.

Roscoe's Homecoming is this weekend. Headed home to catch up...and work. Catering with the fam. Quality time, you know. Headed to the airport to pick someone up in a few...who is going to take the Sebring home for mom to drive for a while. You know you have finally come full circle when you give your mom your extra car to drive...instead of vice versa. Ponder that for a moment. I am handing over a 2004 Chrysler Sebring LXi convertible....to my mother. I mean, mom and dad gave me my first car back in 1993...a 1989 Beretta GT.......

I think I am doing 'em one better. What a good child I am!

Actually, let's not say that. We won't go into my Andretti-style driving or the numerous cars I went through between the ages of 14 (yes, I was driving at 14) and the glorious day when I finally bought my first car, on my own...with no financial backing from the padre and madre.

Hey...mom and dad? Let's call it even.

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Well, my move is finally done! I decided to settle in Irving. It satisfied my basic requirements for housing, which were - in order of importance:

1. Proximity to a Chipotle or Freebirds (I got the Chipotle....there are more of them around than Freebirds...though Freebirds will always be my favorite).
2. Commute of under 30 minutes. My old commute was about an hour and twenty minutes on a GOOD morning.....and I can make it to work from my new place in under 30 minutes...even in the monsoon we had this morning.
3. Big neighbor boy to scare away the baddies....(HI Ben). Ok, not to scare away the baddies...but to keep me company when I decide I have had enough solitary reflection.

My apartment is in a different building than Ben's...but we can both walk out on our patios and converse, if we speak pretty loudly. Plus - it's nice to know there is someone there you know. On the other hand, we both have had to agree to be careful of one another's need for space. (As I write this, I laugh because it makes us sound like some old married couple....and we are just buddies..nothing more. Now - we can have knock-down, drag out fights....but we're pretty much Mutt and Jeff...er....Ben and Jeri. And, yes....we have considered being 'Ben and Jerry' for Halloween.)

Speaking of Halloween.....I still have to cement my costume idea. It looks as though the party is a pirate-themed festivity. Darn it...I don't even look marginally attractive as a wench. I was truly hoping to get it all together to be Medusa, finally. The little rubber snakes woven through my hair....all that jazz. Somehow don't think it will mesh with the pirate thing. Guess I will just go and dress as a pirate. But, there is a part of me who likes to take a theme and run with it in the weirdest direction.....Pirate....Captain Hook.....Peter Pan....The Lost Boys, Tink, Wendy....yeah...I'll be Wendy. That way people just THINK I didn't get the theme......ha ha.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame.....I am SPOILED....SPOILED...SPOILED now!

Talk about learning how the 'other half' lives.
We have been doing a conversion to a new HR system at work, and I have put in some massive hours. (As opposed to miniature ones, I guess.)

My CFO walked into my office and mentioned some Rangers tickets and asked if I might like to go. (Was there ever a question?)

So, yesterday I found myself at The Ballpark in Arlington (I will NEVER call it by its other name), watching Texas take on Anaheim in the final regular season home game. Yes, I am well aware that the Rangers' loss the previous night eliminated them from post-season consideration. Yes, I know the game 'meant nothing' in the big scheme of things, per se. But, it meant a lot to me.

These weren't just any tickets. No, siree. We're talking lower level luxury suite. As in, 'There's a private bathroom in this thing!' The suite belongs to Wells Fargo and Mike graciously offered them to my company....and my CFO graciously offered them to me. (Mike and Craig have no idea how much I truly appreciate it. Seriously - I was exhausted from the conversion and needed the pure joy one can only experience at a major sporting event.)

The luxury suite was situated on the 1st base side....a little over a third of the way down the baseline. I had a great view of the field and crowd. We were directly above the Rangers dugout and were situated just so that we could see activity going on in the bullpens.

I wandered back and forth from the bar (getting a hot dog, YAY!) to the seating area and settled in the front row of suite seats, bracing my feet against the retainer wall in front of me, wiggling my toes in the comfortable 83-degree air.

I am a fan of evening games...but there was something so liberating, so 'bad' about being away from work and relaxing at The Ballpark right after lunch. Especially when the seats are free. And there were the occasional glances from fans around us.... I have done it before, too......checked out the people in the luxury boxes. I recognized those looks. You know what I mean, right? It felt a little weird to be in one of the boxes...I wanted to stand up and shout - "I'm just like you, too! I'm only here because I was given the tickets!" Kinda felt a little elitist...but I got over it. The game was great, and it was wonderful to end the last home series on a high note.

AV-A-LANCHE.....say it with me one time....

Ok...now that I am plugged back into the information superhighway (sorry...I decided to forsake technology this weekend and finally clear out the townhouse in Abilene) I shall wax philosophic about my new 'baby'.......the 2002 Chevy Avalanche Z66 I picked up on Friday.

Yes, it shall get a name...but I can't decide if it is male or female.....leaning toward female.....because it is such a HOT vehicle. Love it. Absolutely love it. It is a color called 'Pewter' (aka 'Yay! It's already light brown so when it gets dirty it won't look as dirty as it could look!')

(Yes, I have always named all of my vehicles...starting with the 1989 White 'Baby Retta' Beretta GT...and ending, most recently, with the 2004 Chrysler Sebring LXi convertible...Trixie. I have had Elroy, Penelope, The Demon, the G-Ride, and the Hoopty Car. Wow...I have had quite a few vehicles.)

Yes, I still have the convertible...I am not getting rid of Trixie right now. Still love her toooo much. But, anytime I need to feel tougher than the rest of the world, I am gonna climb into my new baby and drive. My best friend's husband told me that all I needed was a brushguard on the front and I can run over anything that I want.

It felt nice to be back in a pickup.....I mean, I AM a transplanted West Texas farm girl.

I took the truck to Abilene this weekend. Correction. I took it to Eastland....met dad there at the Longhorn/Maverick football game. Jake was coaching....gotta see a couple of his games each season. Dad took the Avalanche from Eastland to Abilene. Dad and I had dinner/breakfast at midnight and he gave my Avalanche back to me. I just love getting into a vehicle after dad has been driving it. It's so cold it is almost arctic. He likes his air conditioning.....I have fond memories of being frozen out on the way home from places as a kid. Nothing like cold fingers and toes to remind you of the good ol' days.

Todd and I spent some time together this weekend...on Saturday night and on Sunday. It is really comforting to know that we can be really close friends. I was afraid that it would be too painful...or awkward.....but we get along much better now that we are divorced. But, he's jealous about my new truck. He reminded me that a scant three years ago he wanted an Avalanche badly, and I annouced they were the ugliest things I have ever seen. Yeah...so....he's right.....I thought that way before. But I like 'em now. Especially since I own one. Dad calls it my 'Tonka Truck'...and that is exactly what it is...a big kid's toy. I am in heaven.

So, if you frequent 183 between Ft. Worth and Dallas......be careful...and watch out for me...especially since what I am driving now is three times the size of my convertible. You have been warned!

What Would Jesus Drive?

For MY money - I say he'd drive a Chevy Avalanche. (Just got mine today...whoo hoo!)

It's 'HOOKAH', buddy....not hooker.

Well...once again, I should be whipped mercilessly for not updating during the week. But, this has been a wild week.

My little sister came into town on Saturday....and wanted a 'Dallas Experience'. (Come on....we're from West Texas.....and just driving on 75 is a 'Dallas Experience').

Of course, we had to start out with a visit to Hooters. She loves the fried pickles. She and I and Ben and Kevin spent some time there, watching the Longhorns (gag) play and just enjoying the camraderie. Then, the real fun began.....

We left Hooters in Irving and drove up to The Velvet Hookah in Addison. All I can say is......I am going to decorate my bedroom so that it resembles that place. Talk about relaxation and comfort. Kick your shoes off...sit on soft cushions ont he floor. Enjoy the (very) dim lights and the scents...

The DJ was awesome...spinning across genres. The bellydancer there was pretty cool, too. Um, well...yeah...except for the sword....I kept waiting for someone to get an accidental laceration. I heard that she used to dance with fire...but one member of our group stated that they took that away from her because she almost burned down the joint. (I noticed quite a few telltale scorch-marks on the floor).

Needless to say, I loved that place...we stayed until a little after 1am...then we all hit Denny's and had breakfast. And Tonya rocks for helping that precious drunk girl (HI MICHELLE!!!).

Trying to fit the world inside a picture frame.....

I have been feeling rather nostalgic lately - quite possibly because I am about to (finally!) be done with my move to DFW. I was struck with some overwhelming sadness last weekend when I was in Abilene.....having dinner with my parents, my little sis...and another couple (family friends).

The family friends had driven in from Coppell.....they moved there from my hometown a few years ago. My younger sister is in retail management, and is no longer the annoying little pest she was in the good old days. (I take that back..she still has her moments).

But - in the midst of lively dinner conversation, it struck me that I was seeing all of these people with new eyes. When you see people in and out, every day...you grow comfortable with them....things are broken in. For some strange reason, it hit me that everything has changed...no longer am I in the safe, little cocoon that has been my life for the past ten years.

Don't get me wrong, I am enjoying my life...I think. But I am a sentimental girl....I like my memories....and I catalog them in my mind. I take them out and flip through them when I am feeling down, or wistful....or when I am bored...or missing someone.

I was listening to John Mayer the other evening on my way home from a shopping trip with the roommate....and I had him listen to "3X5". I love that song. The lyrics in the bridge actually make a lot of sense:

"Today I finally overcame
trying to fit the world
inside a picture frame"

Pretty interesting verbiage.....I like it. I think I am going to commit to living that way from now on.

....one of the boys

I cannot begin to tell you how much I have missed just being 'one of the boys'.

Wait, you say - - "Aren't you female?"

Why, as a matter of fact, last time I checked, I was...and I am pretty sure - hold on - yep, still a girl. But, I like nothing more than hanging out with the boys. I have always gotten along better with males than I have with females. Chalk it up to being a semi-tomboy growing up. Guys are just more fun to hang out with. My day is not made with four hours of shopping and cucumber sandwiches at a local tearoom. Give me a Cowboys game and a trip to Hooters. I am not as concerned with scheduling a repeat manicure and pedicure.......give me a card game and some locker-room humor. Nothing is better on a Sunday afternoon than cooking chili for a group of guy friends and watching the Cowboys play. Boys are just less complicated. Girls are entirely too competitive for my tastes - who has the better hair, shoes, boyfriend.....guys could not care less. I know that my guy friends don't mind if I just roll out of bed and show up in jeans and a t-shirt, or if I spent two hours primping in front of the mirror. It's all the same to them. And, no it isn't an angle to get a date......these are my 'boys'.....and they don't fall under that type of consideration at any time.

Last night was a perfect example. I met up with Ben and Mike at about 5:30 at Ben's place of business. We shot the breeze, joked around and enjoyed what was turning into a beautiful evening outside. Geoff joined us right around 6:35 or so, and we all piled in Geoff's vehicle for the short ride to The Ballpark.

We had tickets for the Rangers/White Sox game last night. Yes, finally I made it to the Ballpark for an actual game this season, instead of making it up there after the game ended....or just watching the game at home.

We parked quite a distance from the Ballpark, and trudged through the grass, scattering grasshoppers and assorted other insects.....we joked and ribbed one another.....we stared at what is arguably the most beautiful major league park in existence today.

We sat at the top of the second deck, right against the Fox Box, and thoroughly enjoyed the sights, sounds and smells that are inherently a part of a September night in baseball. That little bit of a breeze that carries snippets of conversations from the next section over.....the kids decked out as replicas of their heros below. The stands were not crowded, the fans were enjoying themselves......realizing that the next few weeks will not bring the result they wanted, but still proud of the team they support.

We had a baseball 'virgin' in our midst. I will not disclose his identity, except to say that - for not EVER being to a major league game, he performed very well. Except for when he leaned over and asked, 'Can ya steal first?' I thought he was kidding.....then I realized he was as serious as a heart attack. So, I replied, 'Sure - after the game, if you can get out there before they pull the bags.'

Anyway, it was fun - being one of the boys again. Because, as much as I gripe about men...most of my favorite people on earth just happen to be male. So, viva men! (As long as I don't have to date any of them right now!)

I didn't crash your convention.....don't crash mine.

Michael 'Moron' Moore - - - I don't think I would shed a tear if you disappeared. 'Nuff said.

It's 10:00pm and I don't have much I feel like saying tonight.....I am tired. That about sums it up. Life is great. My new laptop is a blast. I know it is supposed to be a 'tool'...but it's mostly a toy right now, while I am gleefully discovering all the neat bells and whistles that go along with it.

OH-and you gotta love work when you have a shared MP3 drive. Yes...a shared drive at work...music we can all access while working. And, it is actually decent music. Some Judas Priest, Kenny Chesney, Ludacris, Sara Evans, Aerosmith, Jimmy Buffett.....the list goes on and on. They need some Dashboard Confessional, though..and some Reverend Horton Heat. I shall share the love.

Oh, and I watched my first movie on my laptop....Fight Club. Nothing like breaking in a new computer with that bad boy, huh?

Fried Pickles

This post only exists to annoy my sis, Joni.

I went to Hooters and had fried pickles. So there. (She loves fried pickles from Hooters....but she is approximately 2 1/2 hours from the nearest one....so I love to rub it in when I get to go there.) Dan and I sat there and watched football and unwound from the daily grind of TPS reports.

And, there was the cutest kid there, celebrating his 5th birthday. Absolutely adorable...and that boy was in heaven, because those waitresses were making the biggest fuss over him.

Where else can you expose your kid to booze and boobs at such a young age?

'Piss off a Democrat....Work Hard and Be Happy'

I saw the quote above on a bumper sticker, while spending the weekend in Austin with a liberal ex-friend of mine. (Why 'ex' you ask? Believe me, you don't want to know. It just about takes an act of God to make me banish someone from my life....but this person took the cake).

Anyway, is anyone else tired of the liberal leftist whining? It's not even remotely amusing any longer. It used to be that I could muster the occasional giggle at an out-and-out rant.....but, man...it's getting pathetic. EVEN from my avowed liberal friends! Hopefully, the 'Demon-crats' (or 'Demon-brats' as they are affectionately known around my household) can muster up some more entertainment. That's what they are there for - - (Yes, slam me, call me whatever you want. If you don't like what I say...start your own darn blog.)

Just remember....The Road to Hell is Paved with Democrats.

Much love and chocolate!

Extra Crispy, Please

Will someone please tell me why I continue to tan? I voluntarily subject myself to harmful UV rays just so that my pigmentation might resemble that of a ghost just slightly less than it does now.

Of course, my dermis rebels, and I come out looking like my favorite Veggie Tale character (and if you don't know which one that is...just ask)

Anyway - - two weeks in...and I am developing a nice color. Yes, RED is a color.

Let's see..what's on tap for this week? Work, work work....a Rangers game....work, work, work...and hopefully a movie. Oh, yeah...and then some more work.

In love with the Sari bedding from Bed, Bath and Beyond...but will have to sell my firstborn in order to get it. I have saved up enough..but can't seem to convince myself that it truly is a good idea to spend over $700 to outfit my bed. Sorry - but my bed doesn't need to dress better than I do.

There is also something oddly appealing about the Modern Romance bedding set by Nicole Miller. I think it is just a little too austere for me.

Warning Labels

Have you ever wished that people came with warning labels? Seriously - like 'Pathological Liar and Remorseless Cheater' (yes, you know who you are...and may God have mercy on your rotting black soul, buddy!)

Then again, I would hate to see what mine said...(Non-Committal Social Butterfly? Best of Intentions, with no Follow-Through?)

Still, if I could tattoo a warning label on one particular person's head, to warn the general population, I would do it in a heartbeat.......

Mondays

Why must I go through three Mondays this week? I think God owes me a couple of Saturdays for the week I have been having.

Let's see....I went back to Abilene on Sunday (left Ft. Worth at 6:30am on Sunday, to be exact) to pack up the remainder of my large furniture so that it could be hauled here to the DFW area in a UHaul moving truck.

(Note to self: NEVER make moving arrangements with friends...and never let them take your furniture with promises to have it delivered 'that afternoon'. My dining room chairs are scratched and nicked horribly...and my friends aren't the least bit concerned. I am upset. Wait...let me rephrase that...I am UPSET. I just bought that furniture less than a year ago. Somehow it made it through two moves with me with NO blemishes...but the one time I entrust it to friends.....it arrives looking like I picked it up secondhand at a Goodwill store. Plus - my friend is put out with me....all because he didn't plan ahead. Long story, no use in rehashing it. I just know that next time the words 'professional movers' will be in my vocabulary. At least you can expect them to take care of your furniture - - or to at least carry insurance to cover damage they cause.)

Anyway. That was Sunday.......but it felt like a Monday.

Monday can simply be labeled one of the top five bad days I have ever had in my life. It ranks right up there. The divorce became final at 9:30am. I sat in a courtroom, with only a judge, a bailiff and a court reporter. I felt so abandoned and ashamed.....not a part of the establishment....and not really wanting to be there or to be going through the machinations of the divorce machine. I cried. Yes...on the stand, I cried. I just wanted out of there so badly. Why were there so many questions? I didn't want to answer questions....I just wanted someone to stamp the pieces of paper and let me get on with my life. My ex-husband couldn't be bothered to show up, or take care of any of it. It's sad...the person who truly wanted the divorce couldn't screw up the courage or take any responsibility for getting it done.

But it is done.

And, today is shaping up to be yet another Monday.....

Now I am back in the DFW area, starting to lay out the pieces of my life.....trying to fit them here and there, to find some semblance....some meaning. I am looking at a 1,000 piece puzzle with no picture for a guide, and trying to find which notch matches which groove. And...no...there isn't a rectangular border that I can work within......