Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Unique gift ideas...

2008-12-11T16:31:00.003-05:00

This is probably the COOLEST gift idea list I have ever seen!

Check it out!

20 Ways to Give Without Giving "Stuff"Experiential, Charitable and Volunteer Gifts to Surprise and Delight

The Bachelor - 2009

2008-12-10T11:53:00.003-05:00

I am pretty stoked for the season premiere of "The Bachelor" on ABC this coming January. I have had a love-hate relationship with the show since it's debut years ago, but this past winter - found me bored and in the middle of nowhere (haha - home) on the couch in the evenings a lot & I had the opportunity to re-engage the show.

I immediately fell in love with Deanna - eagerly tuning in each week to see who was getting a rose & who was going home...in the end she chose Jesse over Jason...I liked both guys so I wasn't really rooting for one more than the other...

As it has turned out & as it has with a lot of the seasons...Deanna and Jesse will not be making it down the isle in 2009 as announced - the pair ultimately called off their engagement this past November *SIGH* I mean, I really can't imagine why it is so hard to make a relationship work when they knew each other for SO LONG and got to spend SO MUCH time together ;)

ANYWAY!!! As luck would have it, the Bachelor who's proposal was turned down i.e. Jason Mesnick has been chosen to be the new Bachelor...Jason is a single father from Seattle, Washington & I just found him to be absolutely adorable last year - ERGO - I am super excited to watch his journey from the other side of the "game."

Apparently, he has announced to the world that he did find LOVE during the taping of his season and is engaged....hmmm...only time will tell...I hope for the very best for him, but as history does tend to repeat itself - we'll have to tune in to see if it lasts through the "after the finale show" :)

I know you so well!

2008-12-08T10:09:00.002-05:00

Funny peanut story from the weekend...

I drove out to my parents yesterday to spend time with everyone. Josh and Aliyah were both there as well (YAY!). Aliyah wanted to play games so she and I started off with Candyland and then all of us went to the den to play Disney Bingo...

Aliyah is very competitive and wants to win. What kid doesn't? I ended up calling out "BINGO" on the first round, so for round two Aliyah wanted to use my Bingo card...go figure :)

The funny/sweet thing that happened was when Dad put out $5 for the winner of the blackout round. Aliyah ended up winning that one and the $5, so I joking said - "now you can go Christmas shopping for me".

She looked up at me and said "Yes, and I'll get you a star for your tree."

The irony of her statement was that while out shopping on Saturday I bought a tree for my place, but decided against the stars...thinking that I'll swing by a Pier One to see what they have.

So I said back to Aliyah "I do need a star for my tree! How did you know that??" (I had not discussed any of this with her)

She looked up and me, shrugged her little shoulders, and in a somewhat "duh" kind of voice, said "well, that's because I know you so well!"

I smiled and said "yes, you do..."

"Please Mr. Postman"

2008-11-26T13:55:00.004-05:00

Sometimes it is so ironic how you can have a random conversation with someone one day and then the same topic pops up somewhere the next day.

I was just discussing with a friend how much I do not like getting mail and all of the reasons that I do not enjoy mail & then I saw a reference to a similar "complaint" on one of the blogs I read.

I used to enjoy stopping at the mailbox. Once upon a time I was actually anxious to see if there was a letter in there for me (back before I had bills). Sort of like that oldies song "Mr. Postman." I remember always making sure mom and dad got the mail & going through it looking for fun catalogs...this sort of excitement followed me up until about a two years ago when I completely stopped caring about the mail and starting despising it.

I used to think that it was because of where I lived...the mailbox was a good 1/4 mile from my house and I had to stop on the way home, get out of the car, etc. It was real annoying when it was raining, snowing, super cold/hot, or after dark (remember my fox story?) & I really thought I was just lazy. The mailbox was huge, so I could go a good 1-2 weeks without stopping...I'd always look at it as I passed and sort of feel neglectful as I drove on by...

Then I started to notice the guilt that I felt for all of the junk mail that I threw away. It is just such an incredible waste! My practice became to go through the pile and sort it into keepers and tossers...I'd save the catalogs to look at while I ran on the treadmill, but that act also caused me to want to shop more. I wanted everything in EVERY VS magazine!

I also don't enjoy finding a place for the things that I decide to keep. I do not like filing. I do not like keeping all of the crap for years. To me, it is pointless and a complete waste of time. I mean everything is online these days!

I sort of thought that at my new place I would check the mail a little more regularly, in part b/c my mailbox is about the size of a small shoebox AND in part due to the convenience of the location. Let's just say that this has not been the case! Unless there is something that I know I am expecting, I'll walk by the mailbox for days...sometimes for over a week+ without checking. Most of my bills are online, so I'm not ignoring my finances. I also thought that through moving, the number of catalogs I receive in the mail would diminish. For well over a month now, I have not received anything, but the retailers have found me! When I went through a weeks worth of mail two nights ago there were VS and JCrew magazines addresses to ME and my new address. HOW ON EARTH DID THEY FIND ME? I have NOT ordered anything! It is like there is a conspiracy between the folks at the post office and corporate America to sabotage my brain and my wallet no matter where I reside :)

I think I need to try to do better about stopping off at least a couple times a week. Then the task doesn't seem so overwhelming and maybe I won't feel so guilty about throwing virtually every piece of mail that I receive away - if the toss pile is smaller. Don't get me wrong, I like getting cards and invitations...those things are FUN, but my stubbornness about the whole situation has caused many of those items to sit in the mailbox until well after the event has passed. When my best friend mails me something, she tells me to check the mail...she knows I won't see it for a while if someone doesn't prompt me to do the darn thing!

Something old ~ Something new

2008-11-19T16:02:00.005-05:00

I am so excited right now that I can hardly stand it! Clearly, it is NO SECRET that I get a little geeked out over "The Wizard of Oz"...and I guess the wonderful thing about it not being a secret is that when people that know me see something from the WOZ, I usually get an email or a phone call. YAY!

Today, one of my very, very dear friends SC sent me an email with a link to a WOZ play at Warner Theatre in Washington, DC - and guess who has tickets!!!!???!!! ME!! I do!!! I'm a little beside myself right now :)

Right after I got the email from SC, I checked out the link, confirmed a play buddy, and bought two tickets for $15.00 off!

Thanks SC!!!!! YOU ROCK!!!!!

---------------------------------------------

I also wanted to share that I am in love with these great songs:

"Untouched" - The Veronicas

"Just Dance" - Lady GaGa

And Taylor Swifts new album is a knock out of the park...IMO! "White Horse" - "You're Not Sorry" & "Love Song" are all on the iPOD!

Happy Wednesday & HUGS!

"Do not go gentle into that good night...

2008-11-18T09:24:00.004-05:00

Rage, rage against the dying of the light..."

The title to this post is from a poem by Dylan Thomas. I remembered this from a great movie called "Back to School" from 1986 starring Rodney Dangerfield...GREAT FLICK, but the real point of the title is in relation to my last post from this past Thursday.

After venting to my readers about the sad Redskins game news, I proceeded to tell my boss and show my disappointment & then I went and talked to one of the VP's going to the game...I was respectful, polite, and sort of made light of the whole scenario, but I definitely let them know how I felt...I was not giving up hope!

During one of my chats, I went as far as to sing the Dolly Parton song "9 to 5" from another 80's movie, but I changed the lyrics for everyone to "Working 9 to 5, and then they take away your ticket!" Again, I was bitter, but I was trying to have a little fun with it and cheer myself up...

As luck would have it, my diligence paid off...on Friday around lunch time, I was given back my ticket to the game! I was so pumped! Come to find out both my boss and the VP spoke to the person in charge of the tickets and confirmed how unfair it was to treat employees that way & to tell us basically us right before the game after several weeks of thinking we were going...

The suite at FedEx Field was SO awesome! We were basically right on the 30 yard line and had an great view of the field. We had good food and a warm/comfy place to sit...it was super cold out, so sitting in the stands would have been bone chilling! Even though the game was a real heart breaker...I had a wonderful time and I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity that was given to me.

I will say that my company was entertaining a LARGE vendor...one that is headquartered in Austin, Texas...four letters...so that part WAS NOT FUN! I tried to be a good sport, but it was SO annoying to hear the person next to me CHEERING for the COWBOYS. I was gritting my teeth for most of the second half and by the fourth quarter it was all I could take to witness the gloating. I guess beggars can't be choosers!!!

I'm still proud of my team :)

I hope you ALL have a WONDERFUL time :)

2008-11-13T14:00:00.006-05:00

As luck would have had it, my team at work was invited to join our corporate suite at FedEx field for the Redskins vs. Cowboys game this coming Sunday night. I love my Redskins and have not been to a game in a very long time, so I have been super excited for a few weeks now. I was not only going to a Redskins game, but against the COWBOYS for goodness sakes! How awesome is that?

Of course as the work week has begun winding down, there has been a lot of chatter in the office about the upcoming game - who's going - where are we meeting - tailgating - everything I LOVE about going to a live sporting event. Due to all of the discussions, my excitement had risen to a level of spastic anticipation...

Well, a couple minutes ago, the coordinator of these events pops up at my cubicle (the same person who was asking me yesterday if I was "excited" and talking to me about the tailgate) and informs me, after a LONG LINE of excuses, that one team member and myself have now been axed from the list of attendees!!! Apparently, a couple VP's decided they would like to go to the game and because of that, the LIST had to be scrubbed. I mean. really? Is that a nice way of telling me that I am a bottom dweller? That I don't rank? That I'm not important enough?

At the end of our brief chat, this individual looked at me with pity and said "I'm sorry, I know you must be disappointed." Um, disappointed? You have no -idea! "Disappointed" is putting it mildly! Now get out of my face before the fake smile that I am already wearing completely fades away and you catch some of my wrath.

Oh & PS - never look at me with that "I feel sorry for you" expression on your face ever again!

I hope you all have a WONDERFUL TIME (spoken with 100% sarcasm)!

Excuse me, is this yoga or bootcamp?

2008-11-11T10:03:00.005-05:00

As I mentioned in a previous post, I recently re-joined the gym. A new Lifetime Fitness opened in Ashburn on October 11th and it is literally only a few miles from my home and office. I am very proud to say that my bf and I have been very dedicated to our exercise program and we have been hitting the gym at lunch time on a regular basis (we do a lot of resistance training, which is an incredible work-out, but we don't get too sticky!). This past week, we decided to kick it up a notch and go to the gym for a yoga class on Saturday morning. We were both pretty excited and I had never been to an actual class, so I was pumped to see what it was all about.

We assembled ourselves in the studio at 845am...a tad bit later, in walks the instructor about 10 minutes late ranting from the time she crossed the threshold about how she wears too many hats and is also a trainer (yadda, yadda, yadda). My bf and I looked at each other like - wow - this isn't how we expected to be talked to in yoga, but whatever...maybe the instructor got off on a bad foot...we all have bad days, right? :)

Needless to say her energy did not change. The negativity went on through out the remainder of the class. We could barely even hear any sort of relaxing music, she'd raise her voice a lot, got irritated when she asked questions and the class didn't respond, and was very bossy about our poses. Saying things in a no-it-all tone, like "if I say for you to check your feet, that is because one or more of you are doing the pose incorrectly" OR "don't be sassy with your pose, this isn't about looking cute." WHAT!?!?

I wasn't relaxed at all. If anything I was afraid and up tight. At one point in time while doing a pose on the mat, my bf and I looked at each other and she said to me "she is not very nice" and I said "what is this, boot camp?" We both left the class feeling like we got a decent work-out, but we were bitter about the instructors missing softness for lack of a better word. Never having been to yoga, we thought that maybe we were misinformed and set our expectations incorrectly...regardless, due to the less than *fun* experience, I was reluctant to go again...

Fast forward to this morning...we decided to try yoga one more time with another instructor...545am...sitting in the studio on our mats and in walks the teacher...there is an immediate noticeable difference...she is soft spoken, there is sweet relaxing music playing, she has an encouraging tone and just a positive & enjoyable energy. The next 75 minutes proved to be both relaxing and yet so challenging. I have to say that I am very pleased with the 180 that yoga has taken for me in the last week. After Saturday I thought I'd never go back, but after today, I'm really looking forward to going again.

Moral of the story is - don't give up! One bad experience does not necessarily mean it is time to throw in the towel...now if today would have been terrible as well, I'm not sure that I would have returned -EVER - but I certainly am pleased that we decided to give it another go!

PS - the strength that you feel after yoga is amazing...it is like it comes from deep within the threads of your muscles! Very cool! The only drawback is that I am so hungry all the time. It is 11am and I have had an english muffin, and egg sandwich, and a pack of cheese/peanut-butter crackers AND I'm wondering what is for lunch :)

My Election Day

2008-11-04T09:27:00.005-05:00

I woke up bright and early at 5:45am today to head to the polls in Clarke County. I pulled in about 6:05am and the lines were not too bad at all; divided by A-L and M-Z - being a "W" I took my spot and began waiting.

As I stood in line, I looked around and started to get emotional...tears formed in my eyes as I thought about how epic this election is. There were several African-Americans in line directly in front of me, and no matter who they were voting for, I just really imagined how proud they must be...how awesome this experience must be for them - regardless. This also made me feel very proud of my country and for the names on the ballot in general.

As it became my turn to check in, I told the volunteers my last name and presented my drivers license. I watched them scan the list for my last name and I only saw my parents and brother...in my head I thought...here we go! I was told that I wasn't on the list...

I am thinking that I just moved three weeks ago. I have not changed anything with the DMV. There is no way that I am not registered in Clarke! The volunteers then start to ask me a barrage of questions - 1) are you registered to vote? YES 2) did you just move to CC? NO, I have lived here for three years 3) have you voted in CC before? YES, multiple times.

One of the volunteers, who I know was only trying to help (and I thank her for being a volunteer) asked me multiple times if I had voted before. Please note that patience is NOT one of my virtues; however, I held my own for a few minutes until the third or fourth time she asked me. Here it is at 6am, I'm still in my PJ's, the dog is in the car, I HAVE NOT brushed my teeth (didn't expect to have a ton of people up in my face), no coffee, and I am trying to figure out IF I am going to be able to vote before I leave town this afternoon...anyway, upon being asked yet again if I had voted before, I looked her square in the eye and boldly said "I am 29 years old, this is the third presidential election that I have voted in!!!" (blowing my bad morning breath all in her face...I'm sure she regretted asking me for several reasons!!!).

The next thing I know, I am pulled out of line so we can call "Barbara" at the courthouse. She runs my social and informs me that I am set up to vote, but under my married name (my name that I changed back in March of 2008; I changed it at DMV and I changed it at the Clarke County courthouse!!!). Apparently these changes can take some time to make it through the system...whatever...it is what it is.

I explained to the powers that be that I was listed under my old last name "F". I had to tell about four different volunteers my story. Each one said "oh, your married name hasn't taken effect" OR "oh, I see, you are still listed under you maiden name." Neither of which was the case. Having lost all patience by now (these poor people), the same lady that I had snapped at to tell her that I was 29 years old blah, blah, blah...asked me if I had sorted everything out. I told her yes, that it was b/c I was listed under the incorrect last name - she said, "oh, your maiden name" AND she directly caught my fire..."NO, I am listed under my married name and that is no longer correct, I should be under my maiden name!!!"

After all of the delay, the only thing that kept me from going over the edge, was that the kind people helping me exercise my right to vote, allowed me to butt to the very front of the A-L line. The next thing I know, someone who is present to protect voters shoves a form in my face for me to fill out stating the issues I had run in to. G-R-E-A-T! His goal, a very noble one, is to work to ensure that these sorts of things do not happen to voters. I filled it out and thanked him, but I was really just ready to get the whole thing over with.

It was a frustrating morning at the Boyce Volunteer Fire Department to say the very least...as I left, I just reminded myself of a phrase I reference often, which is nothing worth having necessarily comes easy...

DISCLAIMER: I am very thankful for the right to vote and for all of those who have worked so hard and sacrificed to pave this road for me :)

MIA

2008-11-03T12:21:00.006-05:00

Hey ya'll!!!

I'm back! Well hopefully...JK! Life has been hectic for the last month or so. I'm sure it has been for everyone. Here is a little bit of what has been going on:

I feel like things are almost settled from the move - YAY! The TV and the dressor mirror are still on the floor, but oh well!

I celebrated my 29th birthday, which was awesome, great, and wonderful!

I went to the Long Branch Wine Festival with my brother and Brittany.

Ijoined the gym again (it has been years) and I go at lunch time a lot, which was previously my blogging time.

I traveled to Arkansas to visit my dear aunt and attend a University of Arkansas vs. Ole Miss football game (a 5 day trip).

I went out of town on a pseudo camping trip for the weekend.

Now I just found out that I'll be leaving town for work travel tomorrow afternoon through Thursday evening.

Um, in my older age, this schedule is starting to catch up with me & I'm sort of getting a little tired! I feel like I'm never home & all of this life jazz lately has made it hard to take time to post.

Tonight I'll go home after work, pack for my trip, throw a few things in a small bag & then drive out to my parents to stay so I can ensure that I vote tomorrow morning...I'm still registered to vote in Clarke County...one thing I have not had time to take care of. Surprise mom and dad - I'm on the way!!! LOL!

Can you believe it is NOVEMBER? For you Ellen watchers..."No-way Novemder-WHAT???"

Love ya'll & have missed you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Two Guys, a Truck, and their TIP...

2008-10-06T16:17:00.005-04:00

As I may have mentioned before, I decided to call movers to lug the furniture to my new place and spare my family and friends some of the moving agony. I scheduled the move with "Two Guys & a Truck" for last Thursday. I had lined up mom to be at my house to let the mover's in & I met them at the condo.

I had spoken to my BFF earlier that day and she made a comment about not tipping the movers...interesting I thought...wow...I had never even thought about tipping them...I am already paying so much...taking her advice I arrived at the condo to let them in without any cash for a tip.

I started to feel pretty guilty as I sat on the couch and watched the "Two Guys" carry everything in and set it up. I began to feel as though this job was worthy of a tip...as the last piece of furniture was carried in, I was informed that they would tally up my final total, have me sign a bunch of forms, and we'd be done...

I walked outside & met them at their truck to sign off on the paper work...one form asking me if I would refer future customer to them - I checked YES.

After all the signing, the One Guy did the calculations for my total and the second guy starting making small talk. Um, I was told that I looked better with my sunglasses on. To that I replied with a sarcastic thank you and told him it wasn't a compliment. Then he asked me if I was going to live there alone, and said if you are - wouldn't you be afraid, asked if I had a husband or a boyfriend, what kind of car do I drive (where are you parked)...all of which made me feel extremely uncomfortable. I started to do my best to ignore him - HOPING - that I could soon pay and leave.

Then the second guy says "so, I asked your mom about the tip and she said you would be taking care of that." I mean, I'm sorry, but since when does someone ask you for a tip???

I informed him that I had never used movers and that the thought of providing a tip had not crossed my mind. I then told him that I did not have any cash on me, but that I would contact his company and ensure that the two of them were taken care of for a tip. I know that these people don't know me from Adam (and there was a slight language barrier), but I meant what I said AND he basically refused to believe me. He kept saying that if I didn't tip them then - they wouldn't get it, which I find HARD to believe. I began to wonder if they were expecting me to go to an ATM or something.

After being asked a couple more times about a tip and after assuring them (at this point to my dislike) that they would receive a tip. I said thank you and walked around to the other side of the building to my car. I put in my cell phone ear piece and the next thing I know, the second GUY is at my car and knocking on the window. Miraculously, he has found a spot on the credit card form that allows me to enter a tip. Now, what do you know about that?

I am irate, pissed, irritated, and more importantly - I'm scared. TWO MORE TIMES (with my car window cracked) I told him that I would call Two Guys & a Truck and make sure that a tip got to him - by now, I was saying this in order to get him to leave me alone. At this time, I no longer want to tip them. Here I have these two men who know my name, where I live, they know what I drive, they make assumptions about who I am living with, and they have a carbon copy of my credit card - I'm a little fearful & I would only tip them after this whole charade to ensure my safety.

At this point today, I am still somewhat torn about what to do. I did speak with the company today, but that was because they made an unauthorized charge to my debit card, which was about $70 in excess of what I approved and signed off on. I only had time to take care of that minor issue at lunch, but I will be calling back to deal with the badgering for a tip & informing them that I will never refer them to anyone - EVER!

"Why does everyone have to move?"

2008-09-29T11:21:00.006-04:00

The title of this post is a question that Aliyah asked me yesterday. I didn't get to spend much time with the peanut this weekend, but thankfully we all got together for lunch at mom and dads yesterday.

Anyway, somehow my move came up - I believe dad may have asked when we were doing everything...Aliyah was sitting beside me on the couch and looked up to me with fear in her eyes - she had lots of questions...

P: You're moving?
A: Yes
P: but why?
A: because someone else is going to live in Aunt Amy's house

A: Remember the Chuckie Cheese we went to?
P: Yes
A: Well, I am moving really close to that & close to where I work
P: So you are moving FAR away?
A: Well it's about an hour
P: Why does everybody have to move?

A: I don't know sweetie...

P: Well, am I going to be here to help you move?

A: No, I am moving next weekend, so the next time you are with Daddy I'll be living at the new house

P: Well, can I come and see you at your new house?

A: Of course you can...I hope you do!

P: Well, are you still going to come to Grams?

A: Yes, I will always come to Grams...I have to come and see my Peanut...

At the end of the conversation, I felt so sad for her. Aliyah has moved several times since her mommy and daddy separated. Luckily through out the last few years, Josh has remained in the same house, so there is stability and a familiar environment for her. She knows that daddy's house is for sale and he will be moving...she knows that Gram and Pop-pop are building a new house...not too long ago her other grandparents moved...now she hears that I am moving.

I realized by the look on her face and the questions that she asked - that the change is not necessarily welcomed and can be confusing. A sense of home is so incredibly important to all of us at any age. It is a security that we depend on a sense of safety that can not be replicated - a haven that allows us to relax, recollect, and rest before heading out into the world again...where you always know that you can find your loved ones...

I can't NOR would I change the fact that Aunt Amy will no longer live right down the road from Gram and Pop-pop...it won't be as easy to call me to come over to breakfast or to run to town to see a movie or go shopping, but one thing that little girl will learn (if she doesn't already know it) is that I would fly around the world and back to spend just a little time with her...no matter where I am...no matter where this journey takes me, she will always be a part of it and I will always be there for her.

Getting back into the "run" of things

2008-09-27T12:36:00.004-04:00

I am so excited!

I used to run road races somewhat regularly - 5K, 10K, 10 milers, but the last time my feet hit the pavement in a "competitive" sort of way must have been 2001 or 2002.

I have to credit the desire to get back into the race thing to my experience at the CTR 10K a little over a month ago. I made the decision NOT to run that day and only to help with registration, etc; however, the way I felt as I stood under the pavilion (ready to hand out bagels) as the runners went by to the finish line made me feel lazy, left out, and completely unchallenged.

I found myself missing the getting up early on a Saturday, feeling a little nervous, anxious, and excited...getting to the race, getting my race packet...putting on my number...I realized that it is something that I miss greatly.

I vowed that day that I would register for a race soon...something to look forward to and prepare for...start out small and work my way back up again.

So yesterday I found a upcoming 5K, sent an email to my best friend, and we are officially registered and will be running on 10/18! YAY!!!

Here is the link - if anyone out there is interested: Stoneridge 5K - it is in Loudoun County, where I am moving to & it benefits the local schools. Last year they raised over $25,000 towards local education...which is just AWESOME!

Thanks KKH & Jenn!!!!

Um - I'm sorry, but what did you say?

2008-09-26T11:55:00.002-04:00

PETA proposes that Ben & Jerry's use breast milk in its ice cream...

Seriously??????????????????????????????????????????????????

What a difference a day can make!

2008-09-26T10:33:00.003-04:00

To be completely blunt, I feel (and look) like crap today...(didn't I say that I wasn't going to complain during this process???). Well, I'm officially off of my feeling blessed high today and reality has set in ;)

This just so happens to be the busiest time of year for the company that I work for (coincides with the end of the government's fiscal year). I have been working crazy hours and alternating shifts with the other people on my team to ensure that we have coverage in the office every day from 8am - 8pm for the last two weeks. This makes for a long day in and of itself, but when you add and hour drive on both sides of that timeline - it really sucks & there is absolutely no time left to do anything productive outside of work.

Last week I didn't make it home a single night before 9pm (this week has been about the same); if it wasn't work, it was football practice, or dinner plans - by the time Saturday rolled around I was exhausted, but I had to get up at the crack of dawn to get fitted for a bridesmaid's dress & run around getting ready for the engagement party that night (which was awesome BTW). Sunday I did find some time to rest...I believe I was in my PJ's at noon.

Monday morning started the work madness again, which goes through 09/30 *YAY*

Oh and *BONUS* I also get the pleasure of working tomorrow from 10-2pm, so I get to drive two hours to work for four...UGH.

I'm sure you can imagine how wonderful the timing is considering that I have to pack up a 12 room house in the next week...

The stress of getting everything lined up for the move, the stress of working extra hours, complete lack of sleep, no time to work-out and get endorphins pumping, PMS, and now coming down with a cold due to the seasons changing has me in one heck of a $hitty mood today.

I feel like I am walking around in a fog and I just want to go home and crawl under the covers and not come out for a day, but if I were actually able to do that - I'd feel guilty b/c I know that I have so much to do.

I seriously can't wait until the next couple weeks are over!!!!

Feeling Blessed...

2008-09-24T18:41:00.003-04:00

Everything is falling into place perfectly with the move...there are so many small things that have lined up perfectly...those types of moments when you know that everything has happened as it should and as designed *BIG CHEESY SMILE* when you stop questioning all of time that has elapsed between when you began putting out into the universe what you want & when you actually received it...blessed.

"When we lose one blessing, another is often unexpectedly given in its place." C.S. Lewis

We officially signed off on the lease for the house in Boyce and returned the paperwork to our realtor yesterday and then I met to sign the lease on the new place today...WHAT A RELIEF...it is a tad bit scary to not know where you are going to live for sure and have only three weeks to sort everything out!

“My imperfections and failures are as much a blessing from God as my successes and my talents and I lay them both at his feet.” Mahatma Gandhi

Novel idea - I measured the rooms today at the condo and it looks like the furniture isn't going to be as much of an issue as I thought. I reserved a storage unit for everything that I can't take and tomorrow I need to work on movers for at least the big pieces of furniture...

Now I feel like I can go home and safely start packing, packing, packing.

I can't begin to thank all of you; friends, family, and blog friends for all of the encouragement and well wishes through out this process. Your comments and support have been felt and appreciated more than you know.

"Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some." Charles Dickens

Blessings to you all!!!

Trips to TARGET

2008-09-22T14:21:00.003-04:00

I just got back to work from my luch trip to Target and I seriously need to vent.

I used to love, love, love going to Target; my bank account hated my time spent there, but I always enjoyed myself...beyond the necessities, I'd usually pick up something fun...new earrings, cute tee-shirt...

Not anymore! These days, myself and my bank account hate the trips to Target. I find myself putting them off for as long as possible. Everything just seems too darn expensive. Have I been living under a rock? When did mouthwash start costing almost $7.00??? Come on people!

I rarely go without a list these days & I try to stick to items that I need...whatever works for managing the spending right?

Today I needed detergent, coffee, deodorant, shave gel, eye cream (do what I can for the wrinkles), Drano, bubble wrap, packing tape, and I picked up a few boxes...in my head I try to keep some sort of running total...

When the cashier said $104...I almost went into cardiac arrest. I looked down and I had only two shopping bags - two - that's it and it was over $100!

The Target sign is starting to feel like a bulls eye on my back and not the fun emblem I used to associate with the cute commercials...

Moving Sale

2008-09-21T19:45:00.005-04:00

Things are continuing to move forward - yay! I went to look at two places over the weekend and believe I have chosen the one that I saw on Sunday...now comes the fun part - figuring out what to keep, what to give away, and what to sell!

Here are two items...maybe you all know someone?? Spread the word please :)

I'd like to get $600 for the entertainment center and $1000 for the couch, but will take best offer.

PS - I have a matching coffee table, end table, and sofa table that I'll throw in with the entertainment center :)

Not sure what my deal is

2008-09-19T18:10:00.005-04:00

Lately I have been getting back into rap and R&B (WHAT?) - mainly because I think the songs are FUN and I can dance along to them while I am driving :)

I still flip to through the POP and COUNTRY stations regularly...I just have a few extras one programmed

I have many *FAVORITE* new songs at the moment, but the one that I want to share is Pink's new song called "SO WHAT" - it SO rocks!!!!

Check it out :)

Other songs to note are:

Leona Lewis - Better in Time

T.I. - Whatever You Like

Kevin Rudolf - Let it Rock

Christina Aguilera - Keeps Getting Better

I get pretty excited anytime one of these comes on the radio!

TGIF & have a great weekend!!!

Thankful Thursday

2008-09-18T16:00:00.003-04:00

Ok...sooo...I have only been a little hush-hush because I am so excited about the news, but nothing is FINALIZED on paper yet...

I probably forgot to mention to you all that a few months ago we also decided to try to rent the house out. Well, on Sunday on my way back from the 100th birthday party I got a call from our realtor that we have people who want to rent with the option to buy at the end of the lease period...I was so excited that I started crying...as you can imagine, I'm ready to move out and move on :)

Things have continued to progress this week and I am hopeful that the lease will be signed, etc by this weekend. If all goes well, I will be moved out by 10/15/08...one day after my 29th birthday AND I can't think of a BETTER way to start that year off!!!

This news brings about A LOT of things to do in the next month, but I am stoked, so I could care less and I WELCOME the stress and CHANGE - it's about time!!! :)

I have found a couple of places that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that are near my office so that I can easily take care of Bailee and pop in at lunch time to let him out, etc - not to mention cut my commute down tremendously (from two hours of driving a day to 20 minutes) and save on GAS.

Continue to stay tuned for the evolvement of this story...

I'll probably be selling a ton of things and may create a blog site just for that with pictures, etc. I may also have a moving sale at the house...

THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT, NOTES, WELL WISHES, ETC!!!

Wordless Wednesday (HINT: Monday's Post)

2008-09-17T15:22:00.002-04:00

You just had to go and bust my bubble...

2008-09-16T16:47:00.007-04:00

I am a huge texter. "HUGE" in my context is probably a bit (A LOT) different than that of a teenager, but I send quite a few messages in the course of a week.

You know, sometimes you want to say HI, share some news, share something funny, or let someone know that you are thinking of them WITHOUT a full blown conversation.

I genuinely get excited when I look at my cell phone and the screen says "1 new message" with the text envelope displayed...I totally get all giddy, flip open the phone, greatly anticipating WHO the message is from and WHAT it says.

To me it is almost like getting s surprise present or something...call me boring, call me crazy, I don't really care...it is what it is.

There are certainly particular individuals that I tend to geek out over getting their texts...not that everyone isn't important, but I think you get the idea...

Anyway, last night - I happened to get a message from one of those individuals; HOWEVER, I WAS DEFINITELY NOT THE INTENDED RECIPIENT. Or at least I hope I wasn't...

At first I saw the persons name and I was like - cool they wrote me. Then I read the message and I was like - WTF!?!? It was some horrible complaining description of a bad call during a football game (which is also why I know this note was not for me)...it really was awful, vulgar, and condescending towards women (I know it may seem like I am overreacting, but if you read the message OR received something of this nature, I think you'd feel the same). It did provide some insight into how SOME men talk about things when females are not listening. W-O-W.

For many reasons, the note threw me for a little loop. But more importantly, I felt like someone had stolen my texting experience from me. Like my fun had been violated. I was completely irritated. I know accidents happen in our world of technology, but come on...

Aside from the sheer rudeness of the words used - do you think this is just me? OR do you feel this way when you get a message in error (email, phone call, text, etc), when it is from someone you know, but it isn't for you? You can tell me - am I just being a big baby?

Freedom To Be

2008-09-16T09:17:00.003-04:00

Good morning, good morning - in the morning time!!!

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce my cousin Jenn's blog Freedom To Be.

Check it out when you get a chance!!!

Not really sure what my point is...

2008-09-15T15:08:00.006-04:00

This past weekend my family traveled to Richlands, Va - which for those of you who don't know, is located in the southwestern part of the state...this is where my mom's family is from and my mom's grandmother still lives...

The reason for the trip was to celebrate my great-grandmother's 100th birthday, which in and of itself is pretty freaking cool. We had the very best time and I hope to be able to post pictures soon. UNFORTUNATELY, I left my camera charger at the office last Friday and my camera died while en route on Saturday morning...go figure! It was torture to watch all of the HOKIE cars on I-81 going to the game...but I woke up from one of my naps and saw this pic in front of our car! So exciting!

What was really super cool is that Aliyah was able to go with us this weekend to see her great-great grandmother...I mean, how many people are afforded that opportunity in life?

Aliyah is such a great sport. The last time she was with us we were traveling back from the beach and this time we toss her in the car for 12 hours worth of driving over two days...can we talk about how incredibly UNCOMFORTABLE her car seat must be?

The time spent with the family was awesome, but I must say that my favorite time is that spent with A in the car. On the way down we played Nintendo and watched Shrek the 3rd for the sixth time in the last three weeks...we sang BINGO, This Old Man, Old McDonald, etc...the look on A's face when Brittany decided to say "and on his farm he had a ZEBRA" was priceless...no ones really knows what sound a Zebra makes!

On the way home we managed to watch "Finding Nemo" 2x...in part my decision...I hadn't watched the movie is quite a long time and I had forgotten how funny it was. Can we talk about how hilarious it is with Dory talks in whale??? Immediately Aliyah and I (along with Brittany) started talking in whale. We stopped in Harrisonburg on the way home to grab a bite to eat we were making all kinds of crazy noises...I so wish that I could type out the way it sounded! Ellen is so AWESOME!!!

(It was great when at lunch today I decided to start talking in whale at Panera Bread - I had to really share my story from yesterday in full character!)

We repeatedly said "P. Sherman, 42 Wallaby Way, Sydney" and "You on a DI-ET!" I think this is something that we are going to share for a long time to come...

If you haven't seen this movie, if you haven't watched this movie in a while, OR if you haven't shared this experience with your kids...YOU MUST WATCH IT!

PS- YAY to my HOKIES and Redskins! Job well done!!! Momma is proud!!!

PSS- Stay tuned for some HOPEFULLY AWESOME NEWS over the next few days!!!

Stepping out of the comfort zone

2008-09-12T09:45:00.010-04:00

I often times say that I'll try anything once (there is a bit of a disclaimer associated with the word "anything" BUT I think you get the point). It was probably a couple months ago that emails started circulating around the office about putting together a co-ed softball team *YAY* OR a flag football team *SCARY* We collectively took a vote and OF COURSE we had to go in the direction of flag football...

I love football - ON TV or at the stadium, FROM THE COMFORT OF MY SEAT. I so enjoy watching games...sipping on my favorite beverages, eating snacks, cheering from the SIDELINES...

Last Friday was my teams first practice. With great anticipation, I decided to attend...there were only two girls that showed up (counting me) AND even though I knew the other girl had played on a F.F. league before, I had no idea how AWESOME she would be. The very first time she ran out for a pass, she took off like a bat out of hell, hit the 10 yard mark, and took the sharpest turn I have seen to the left AND to top it all off, she successfully caught the bullet flying at her. Can you say G-R-E-A-T (sarcastic tone)??? After seeing her skill level, I was LESS than excited about running out for my pass...

I believe I dropped the first ball thrown to me, but whatever - there is always next time, right? The second time, I tried to run a little quicker & step up my game (telling myself that I can get over my fear of being hit with the ball and be as good as any other girl....). YEAH - that completely backfired when the football went right between my hands and the pointed end hit me in the temple *AWESOME* (Can you say Marsha Brady moment?). I wish I was lying...it hurt and it was so embarrassing, but I can't make this stuff up.

As I recovered from seeing stars, I really began to question my commitment to the team...maybe I am not cut out for sports where balls fly at you and you don't have a glove or a bat to deflect them...

Last night was practice number two...I don't like not being good at things...I know I can never be the best at everything, but IF I am going to be there and IF I am going to participate, I need to give it my best right?? Sometimes, you have to take your safety into your own hands...I did exactly that by WARNING all the boys about throwing bullet passes at me...who cares if they gently lob the ball to you? I sure don't. I'll get more comfortable with time...

ANYWAY, I caught a few passes last night during our team scrimmage and I ran with all I had...sort of surprised myself...I fell a couple times as my flags were being ripped off or as I was trying to get past the defense AND today I am sore as S&*% (I feel old) - my hips ache, my inner thighs are tight - even my toes hurt, but I really had a GREAT time last night...

I'll miss our first game tomorrow, but I am now looking forward to practice next week and the games the following Saturday. In all honesty, I'd still rather be playing softball, but stepping out of your comfort zone can be a good thing...I'm learning more about the game of football that I love to watch...

There is a quote that I have referenced a lot and it goes: "Whether you think you can or whether you think you can't, you're right." (Henry Ford)

Sometimes the greatest lessons you can learn are from yourself :)

TGIF!!!

Who remembers?

2008-09-10T13:51:00.000-04:00

The show called HeeHaw???

This is very random, but the other day at work I had a flash back of the show...the part where the cast and guests would tell jokes - they would pop up from behind a hay bail or in a corn field...saying something funny...and then lower back down...

I was at a co-workers cubicle who has a half-wall on one side and I did that exact thing...I said something out of the ordinary and then without even thinking, I lowered myself down to where they couldn't see me...

She started laughing hysterically...as did I, but then she said "WHO DOES THAT??" in tone that insinutated a little shock, and immediately I equated my actions to HEE-HAW...

She had never heard of the show, but I loved it...maybe it was just a part of my country up-bringing...

Anyone?

Anyone?

Grandpa Jones?

Minnie Pearl?

What do you do at work???

2008-09-03T17:26:00.004-04:00

If I could count the number of times that I have been asked what I do at work during the day...it is usually such a BORING explanation that PAINS me to even try...

I had a moment this afternoon, when at a co-workers desk - I decided to take pictures...and informed her that I could NOW let everyone know exactly what I do...

I make statues out of little magnetic pieces!!!

There it is people...in all of it's glory...all of these years of wondering...put to rest!

Then I get really excited and I run to get my camera & take pictures (this is at Blute's desk for anyone that may be wondering! She refused to take the pic with my creation and made me.).

Oh and I eat...I eat...I eat...this is the shelf above my desk that is for storage...yeah - um - it's my work pantry...there are people here that have nicknamed me "Nabisco"

PS - 3rd post today...sorry, just had to share!

I have never laughed so much in one day...

2008-09-03T13:58:00.001-04:00

Hey! It is back to civilization...I so wanted to do more posts last week while at the beach, but they just never happened...as I sit in front of a PC every day at work, I assume I must have also needed a break from the computer as well! I can't wait to read every one's blogs and catch up too :)

I do have a few stories from poor Aliyah's last day at the beach, which was a rough one for her to say the least. Dad, Josh, and Aaron had gone fishing for the day, so Brittany and I were taking Aliyah to the beach. It was a SLOW morning and we decided to head out after lunch...

#1) I told Aliyah to grab her bathing suit and sunscreen. Not to be too graphic, but it is just easier to put on the sunscreen BEFORE the bathing suit sometimes, so that is what we usually do...Aliyah meets me back in the kitchen and as she is taking off her clothes I noticed that bits of white paper were falling all over the wood floor...at first I was like *UH - WHAT IS GOING ON??* but it didn't take me too long to figure out that somehow, someone?, had left at least a GOOD ply of TP in her panties...the look on her face was certainly one of confusion as well...I couldn't help but laugh, it was impossible not to chuckle (mom and Brittany got a small laugh out of it too)...we tried to not make a HUGE deal out of it - knowing that Aliyah could start to cry at any moment...

#2) After applying the sunscreen it was time to put on the bathing suit. Well, as it was the LAST day at the beach, mom had been doing laundry out the ying-yang and had washed all of Aliyah's bathing suits...none of which had dried completely. The little peanut danced around as the cold wet bathing suit went on. Having Aliyah ready, I walked to my room to finish getting myself ready...when I walked back out to the family room I saw Brittany sitting on the couch & looking at A in SHOCK - SO, then I looked and saw white liquid running down Aliyah's legs AND a puddle on the floor...Brittany asks Aliyah what happened and A shrugged her little shoulders and looked a little scared. I couldn't help but to ask A if she had an accident...she said no AND then the light bulb came on *EUREKA* her wet bathing suit had released WATER once it was on and had subsequently sent rivers of sunscreen down Aliyah's legs and back creating a mess on the floor and all over her...AGAIN, the laughter - LAUGHTER - I was in tears by this point....we all were, well - all of us BUT Miss Aliyah - who was now hurt, embarrassed, and crying...I REALLY tried to stop laughing, but I couldn't...two incidents back to back and I was done.

#3) After this, Aliyah calms down with the help of Gram and then Britt, A, and I are off to the beach...we get up to our little boardwalk and Aliyah wanted to help carry the beach blankets...we loaded her up and she was off. Aliyah had gotten a little bit ahead of us, so Brittany called out for A to be careful and she rounded the part of the walkway where the beach shower was located (hose to wash off the sand)...right about that time Aliyah's head disappeared from sight and heard a THUD! It was a total and complete wipe-out. OMG! How much more can this child withstand in the course of an hour??? AGAIN, I was laughing...it was so hard...I felt so bad for her, but once I start laughing I can't stop very easily. It took everything within me to scoop her up and withhold my laughter in an effort to console her and make sure she was ok...

#4) Fast forward a couple hours & Mom finally came down to the beach right as we were packing up to head back to the pool. We are walking in a line: Brittany, Mom, me, then Aliyah...I look up and ahead of me, I see mom trip over this rope that was holding up a volleyball net...again, I laugh...it was just one of those days...mom didn't fall, but pointed out how graceful it would had been if she ate sand...right about that time, the light bulb came on again and I remember that poor little Aliyah is still behind me...as I turn around to tell her to be careful for the net...I see her - all fours down in the sand...somehow, someway, this poor little thing had managed to be taken out one more time!

I felt so guilty for laughing at her, but I wasn't really laughing AT HER, I was laughing about the things that happened...at different points in time I was so weak with laughter that I couldn't even walk...my eyes were so clouded with tears that I couldn't see...

How Aliyah still managed to have fun on the beach that day - I'll never know. She truly is a resilient child, which I have said for a very long time now...

43 ODD? Things about ME

2008-09-03T12:19:00.003-04:00

I don't know why, but I find these Q&A's to be so much fun to read/share - thanks Amanda and Mrs. Sweet!

1. Do you like blue cheese? YES, love it!

2. Have you ever smoked cigarettes? yes :(

3. Do you own a gun? does a water gun count?

4. What flavor Kool Aid was your favorite? Strawberry

5. Do you get nervous before doctor appointments? Usually always am...not sure why.

6. What do you think of hot dogs? absolutely disgusting!

7. Favorite Christmas movie? Rudolph - "I'm cute...."

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? COFFEE, COFFEE, COFFEE

9. Can you do push ups? At time, when I'm feeling ambitious!

10. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? my Tiffany's bracelet - sentimental value

11. Favorite hobby? shopping, just wish it was a FREE hobby!

12. Do you have A.D.D.? YES I DO, but the self diagnosed kind!

13. What's one trait you hate about yourself? um, not going there

14. Middle name? Kristen

15. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment? I shouldn't being doing this at work, I'm really HUNGRY, and I can't wait to go to the mall!

16. Name 3 drinks you regularly have. Coffee, water, beer

17. So is there a number 1 person in life? yes

18. Current hate right now? Nothing that I can think of

19. Favorite place to be? I'm an snuggler...

20. How did you bring in the new year? Night out in DC sending texts to the masses

21. Where would you like to go? HOME...hahaha - for real though, Brazil, India, Africe, Greece, Thailand, Australia, New Zeland...and the list goes on and on and on!

22. Name three people who will complete this? anyone who comments are repeats the tag

23. Do you own slippers? Yes, Hokie-pokey ones

24. What shirt are you wearing? I have on a DRESS people!

25. Do you like sleeping on satin? not sure that I've ever tried...sounds slimy

26. Can you whistle? YES, I try my best :)

27 . Would you be a pirate? For Halloween maybe

28 . What songs do you sing in the shower? Whatever pops in my head & I usually change the words to make it my own song :)

29. Favorite girl's name? These things change...haven't pondered this in a while

30 . Favorite boy's name? These things change...haven't pondered this in a while

31 . What's in your pocket right now? no pockets

32 . Last thing that made you laugh? co-worker

33 Best bed sheets as a child? i don't remember

34 . Worst injury you've ever had? back injury

35 . Do you love where you live? for now

36 . How many TVs do you have in your house? 4

37. Who is your loudest friend? This is kind of mean...

38. How many dogs do you have? 1

39. Does someone have a crush on you? maybe...

40. What is your favorite book(s)? As of late "The Last Lecture"

41. What is your favorite candy? Raisinettes (sp?)

42 . Favorite Sports Team? Washington Redskins and the HOKIES!!!

43 . What song do you want played at your funeral? OMG, what a crazy question to answer...I'm too hungry to think about this right now! :)

More fav beach pics...

2008-09-02T15:59:00.003-04:00

We had the BEST time and I have a few funny stories to share, but for now I'm going to leave you with some other favorite beach pics :)

Some trip pics...Day 1 & 2

2008-08-26T10:39:00.003-04:00

And they're off...

2008-08-22T11:32:00.006-04:00

Emerald Isle here we come!

Well...it is FINALLY time for the family beach vacation. I am really SO excited, but I have to admit that upon looking at the forecast for next week I am a little nervous. I usually luck out with wonderful, sunny weather for beach vaca's, but according to weather.com there are symbols with thunder bolts and clouds showing up every freaking day next week! Is this normal? Do I just not remember forecasts from past years? Or it this because of that stupid storm FAY?

Weather.com ICON for SUNDAY - FRIDAY

Believe me, I completely understand that there are people being very adversely affected by Tropical Storm Fay right now, and I know that the least of my concern should be whether or not my parade is going to be rained on, but I CAN'T HELP IT! In all actuality - I'm taking the low road on this one. I will be selfish and I will pout. I love my beach time...I adore sitting in my chair, feeling the warmth, listening to my music or reading a good book and usually falling alseep and waking up with sand in my teeth...

I WILL NOT BE HAPPY IF WE HAVE LITTLE TIME FOR THIS TO HAPPEN NEXT WEEK!

Weather.com ICON for next SATURDAY

Blogging Blues

2008-08-20T16:42:00.004-04:00

With my beautiful cousin Hannah at the CTK 10K race last weekend in Abingdon, Va.

With my handsome brother Josh @ dinner a couple weeks ago

With Brittany at mi casa after celebrating her birthday

At the beach with Paige

Hey! I feel sort of out of the blogging thing this week? Can you tell? I just keep posting pictures. I love reading all of my blogging friend's posts, but I'm sort of bored with my last 3-5 days :) Ever feel that way? Like nothing is really worth writing about?

Anyway, in light of my laziness, I'm just going to share some pics from the last few weeks.

Josh's Birthday Dinner Pictures

2008-08-18T11:29:00.004-04:00

Josh's b-day was actually 08.07.08, but Aliyah couldn't be with us to celebrate until this past weekend...here are a few pics :)

Birthday Pics :)

2008-08-15T09:28:00.006-04:00

Happy Birthday Mom!

2008-08-14T14:12:00.004-04:00

The year was 1956...

-One of the top songs was "Heartbreak Hotel" ... by Elvis Presley

-A top movie was "War and Peace"

-"I Love Lucy" was the number one tv show

-Bob Barker made his TV debut as host of the Game Show Truth or Consequences

-Norma Jean Mortenson changes her name to Marilyn Monroe

But more important than any of the above or anything else that happened in 1956, on this very day in 1956, my mom was born.

Happy birthday mom! I love you!

Wednesday Randomness

2008-08-13T10:23:00.005-04:00

Happy Hump Day! Is it just me, or is this week kind of going by SLOWER than usual?

I want to share my latest musical love...I am a country girl at heart by far and I genuinely enjoy country music...at times I even jam to some good bluegrass (thanks DAD!).

Anyway, after hearing a few songs by Ashton Sheperd on XM, I decided to pick up the album and I love it! Her newest release is a song called "Sounds so Good." My favorite line of the song goes "there ain't nothing like the sound of a cooler slushin on the bed of your truck."

Genius...right? HA! I'm sure you agree! Check it out!

---------------------------------

On a completely different note, I actually had a *good* date last night!!! "WHAT" you say?? I know!!! I was totally caught off guard. I honestly try to be optimistic going into these situations, but as you all know, my experiences as of late have proved to be less than enjoyable.

As I was driving to meet the fella (clue: someone from the past), I was like *UGH* I don't know if I can put myself through this again...the feeling of first date awkwardness...I mean, my little man Bailee is waiting on me at home and he is ALWAYS happy to see me...maybe I am driving in the wrong direction??

When I arrived at the meeting destination and walked up to say hi...I immediately knew that it was going to be a good time...

AND That's all I'm saying for right now :)

Stay tuned!!!

The single life...

2008-08-08T11:51:00.006-04:00

So three things have happened this week - three things that have taught me major lessons for single life!

Story No. 1:
Last Thursday I met two funny guys while at happy hour. I was sitting by my lonesome tearing into some hot wings when they walked up and started a conversation. I was sort of bored from talking to my co-workers, so I didn't relocate and stayed to talk to the new people. In my little brain this is networking.

After chatting for a good hour, when it came time to leave they both asked to keep in touch. Reluctantly, I got a napkin and wrote down my email address - seemed safe enough at the time. One guy insisted on getting my phone number AND I felt bad, so I gave it to him! WHAT? In these situations, WHY do I worry about hurting others feelings?

So far this week, he called on Sunday and left a message, he sent an email on Monday, and then yesterday he texted me to see what I was doing that evening. I'll have you know that I responded to NONE of the attempts at conversation, so why did he keep trying? Is it that hard to take a hint?

Lesson #1) Give out false information - fake phone numbers and email addresses are ok. Or I suppose I could just say no? I may have to work up to that one.

Story No. 2
On the 4th of July weekend I went out with two girlfriends. We met up with some guy friends of one of the girls on Friday night and we were all talking about going tubing the next day. I grabbed one of the guys numbers and told him I would call the next day if we went down the river.

It was supposed to rain, so we didn't go tubing that Saturday. A month passes...the guy that took my number found me online this week and sent me a message to say hi. I responded saying WASSUP...the next time he wrote me back a BOOK. I am not kidding - it was so long that my head started to spin while reading...after wasting five minutes of my life I decided to skim the remainder of the diatribe. He told me how I hurt his feelings, asked me why girls always like the bad guy, wanted to know how I would feel if someone asked for my number and never called, and practically BEGGED me to give him a chance (it was sort of sweet, but really sad). All I can say is - Um, HELLO - someone needs boundaries!

I thought to ignore him, but I did decide to write him back to inform him that I only asked for his number to go tubing. I was not interested in him, I never was and I never will be. I mean, can't people just be friendly and hang out without wanting more?

Lesson #2) If you are not interested and you think the other person may be - casually start talking about the boyfriend that you don't have. The guy is prob not going to find out the truth!

Story No. 3
There is a co-worker at my job that has shown some interest and asked me out before. I told him NO - I don't date people from work and that I just want to keep things friendly. He just so happens to sit in the cubicle next to me; therefore, it is difficult, to say the least, to avoid contact. He really is a nice/funny person so we moved on from the AWKWARD moment of me turning him down and have been friendly - work acquaintances.

Yesterday I grabbed up my purse to head out to lunch and he stopped and asked what I was doing. I told him that I was headed to the mall and going to grab a bite at Chik-fil-a and that he was more than welcome to come along.

We headed to Nordstrom and when we first got there walked around for a few minutes together. During that time I saw an AWESOME REDSKINS hat...I tried it on - loved it, but it was $36 AND that seemed a little ridiculous for a hat. He and I divided and conquered and reconnected to grab lunch and then head back to work. On the drive back to the office...he reaches in his shopping bag and pulls out the hat. OMG!

I tried to play it off by saying "oh, YOU got the hat" as if to insinuate that he bought it for himself. He informed me that the hat was for ME. WHAT? Can you say UNCOMFORTABLE? Of course I told him that he "didn't have to do that" to which he responded by asking me not to make a big deal out of it, but come on $36 for a hat is not a "friendly" purchase!

Lesson #3) Just because you tell someone you can only be friends, doesn't mean that they get it. If they have expressed an interest in you, that interest probably isn't going to go away. The more attention you pay to them in the effort to make them a friend, the more hope they gain that they might have a chance for something more. Don't confide in them personal information, don't go to lunch, and certainly don't go shopping with them!

***PS - what ever happened to playing hard to get? I'm not even talking about major games here, I'm just referring to a little chase!!!***

STUCK IN MY HEAD

2008-08-06T10:43:00.005-04:00

"The Chicken Dance"

Da da dun da dun da dun

dun dun dun dun

Or something like tune I have tried to put into words above, is what I have been hearing in my head on a daily basis for about the last month now!

I know you all have to agree on how frustrating it is when a song gets stuck in your head for days or weeks at a time...the even more irritating part is when you can't remember HOW or WHY that particular tune is lodged in your brain!

I personally really enjoy it when the song itself is so annoying that by choice, you would NEVER listen to it in a million years, and would change the radio in a heartbeat if it came on.

Well, things finally came to a head for me yesterday when I was walking down the barren hallway at my office and as the tune ran through my mind - I started flapping my arms around as if to do the Chicken Dance...WHAT? Amy - come on! Are you really doing this right now?

I was only snapped out of my little dance party by the fact that someone came around the corner and asked me if I was trying to take flight. G-R-E-A-T! Nice one! I believe I felt my blood pressure rise as the warmth rushed to my face to change my skin tone to a nice shade of red!!!

Fast forward to today and apparently the play button in my mind is STUCK on this song because despite the embarrassment suffered yesterday, my cerebral cortex won't let it go!

Da da dun da dun da dun...

Can we talk about this please?

2008-08-05T11:29:00.005-04:00

Who remembers this classic cuff and the dozen names that it was called by? UH - Is Katie Holmes really serious?

I remember being late for my class that followed gym b/c I was still in the locker room trying to get the perfect cuff...

I know she is old enough to have rocked this in elementary/middle school BACK in the 90's AND I really thought this was one of those trends...you know, the kind that those who originally rocked it, would **NEVER* *EVER** fall victim to again!!!

Am I wrong here?

I now agree with the tabloids and think she needs help :) In the name of fashion - someone PLEASE intervene!!!

Go shorty - it's UR birFday...

2008-08-05T09:11:00.004-04:00

We gonna part-E likes it's UR BiRfDaY! hahaha!

Celebrating the little peanuts 5th birthday this past weekend was tons of fun. Friday night I met the fam for dinner and Josh gave Aliyah her gift...He bought her the portable Nintendo gadget -it was so funny to watch her open it. Let's just say that upon unwrapping the box, her face was LESS THAN THRILLED (it was obvious that she wasn't following - I mean it was a box with a picture of something electronic on it - who cares, right?).

Shortly there after, Josh got the gadget out for her to play with and she was instantly hooked. He put it away during dinner and the next thing you know - Aliyah is whining is saying how tired she is - we all knew it was B/C she wanted to be able to go home and play with her new gift...ah - gotta love the attempts at manipulation!

Sunday a bunch of the family met up at my parents to have ice cream cake - YUMMY! Aliyah got to open quite a few more presents and it was obvious to us that she needed a little lesson in gift opening etiquette!

Aliyah LOVES Hannah Montana - shocking, I know! Both my cousin and my aunt bought her a H.M. Barbie doll...both times she opened the Barbie gift...she got this snooty little look on her face and proclaimed that "she already had 15 of these." I gasped *silently* as by eyes bulged out of my head and did everything I could to bite my tongue and not embarrass her by correcting in front of others.

I hate to talk about it, BUT I'm pretty sure that peanut's OTHER side of the family does not really work on manners with her. I know this because when she was three it was like pulling teeth to get Aliyah to say please, thank you, excuse me or anything of the sort (I'd get so irritated :)). One time we were at the movies and I had candy she wanted...I told her she had to say please...and she refused - what child refuses to say please for candy? Ergo - she didn't get any! Josh had to have a conversation with her mom about working on these things. There is only so much that can be done every other weekend - ya know? Luckily Aliyah has a bit of an innate politeness; however, everyone needs some instruction from time to time - even me!

Both mom and I pulled her aside on Sunday after she was done opening her presents to stress the fact that you always say thank you and that you NEVER tell someone that you already have what they bought you...OMG! :) After the little talks she went around the room and told every single person thank you and gave hugs...she gets it - just needed a reminder!

How sorry are you?

2008-08-04T09:52:00.004-04:00

A little delayed continuation of my story from last Thursday, but here it is!

MY RESPONSE:

"Please accept my apologies for following up to the shipping request sent. As the original mail did not include the on site due date (at times the date varies from what is listed on the sales order), I simply wanted to clarify that it is acceptable to our customer to use a method other than overnight.

Thank you kindly for the clarification of your role at Intelligent Decisions and your authorization to make the best decision with respect to shipping methods used.

Regards"

Can you guess where the sarcasm lies? What is even better is the response that I received to my email.

Tail tucked between the legs response:

"I didn’t mean (or want) to come across as an a$$ before. You are the program coordinator and have every right to question anything. I apologize."

I will note that the sender chose to remove the bulk of the people from the original email distribution when the apology was sent. I also want to point out that I received an email from the senders boss stating that the general feeling is that these things are said/done on purpose and then the employee pretends to be sorry and wants to make up for it...

A can of whoop ^&*

2008-07-31T17:26:00.005-04:00

Today I got an email from a co-worker that made me so angry I could have spit fire. I felt like some poured water on me and I turned from a cute little GIZMO working sweetly in my cubicle into a full blown GREMLIN ready to tear someone a new one :)

I'll try to make this easy to understand and not boring...

Basically my team needs a shipment to be delivered locally to a customer tomorrow - from Ashburn to Quantico, Va. My team member instructed our warehouse to ship the product via overnight....I noticed this, so I followed up to the warehouse clarifying that the product only needed to be on site tomorrow, but did not need to ship via overnight...I made a few suggestions and said it didn't matter how it got there as lone as we had a tracking number to provide the customer...I am trying to save money here! Keep in mind while reading this that about 15 people are on this email...

This is my email to the warehouse:

"Warehouse,

If we ship via ground, will the product be delivered tomorrow since this is technically local?

We could use KOL or another courier to do a same day delivery/next day delivery. I don’t think this is a problem assuming they can provide a BOL number that we can keep on file. Would this be cost efficient?

Please advise."

This is the email I received back from the warehouse manager:

"Yes…but that is part of the reason I was hired, right? I have authorization to make the best decision from John. I will make sure you are provided with a traceable bill of lading number."

UM - WT&! ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? I understand this tools job here and I appreciate their expertise - the last thing I need is someone telling me why they were hired!

Who does this person think they are??? CLEARLY, they do NOT know who they are messing with!!!

I pondered for a while about how to handle it. I am proud of myself for the outcome, but what do you think? What would you do if a co-worker sent you something like this?

I'll share my response later...someone who was copied on the email called me (knowing me) and told me that they could read EVERY WORD of sarcasm in my email (HA - VICTORY)...I bet the recipient (not knowing me) did not get it though :)

That is the SECRET to a saucy email...you get your justice, but write it as if you are being nice and genuine ***EVIL LAUGH***!

"How wonderful life is"

2008-07-30T15:06:00.003-04:00

"And you can tell everybody this is your song..

It may be quite simple, but now that it's done...

I hope you don't mind...

I hope you don't mind that I put down in words...

How wonderful life is while you're in the world"

-Elton John's; Your Song

This day, 5 years ago, brought into life"the sweetest eyes I've ever seen."

July 30th is the day that my Peanut-doodles-girl-baby (haha) was born and needless to say life has not been the same since that moment.

It is hard to grasp that this much time has passed so quickly. The selfish side of me never wants her to grow up. I never want her to lose the little lisp I hear when she speaks. I never want her to stop wanting me to tickle her. I never want her to be too big to carry.

I realize that with all things in life, you have to move on and grow. Otherwise there are those moments, that would be missed. I look forward to being a part of her journey...

Happy 5th Birthday Aliyah...

From your aunt that loves you more than words can ever express :)

PS- I know it may not be totally fitting, but a year ago I was driving and "Your Song" came on the radio. As I listened to the lyrics, Aliyah was the only thing that came to mind. Now every time I hear this song...I think of my little peanut...often with tears in my eyes...when she is a little older, I will share this with her too :)

I despise grocery shopping!

2008-07-29T14:30:00.004-04:00

Well, I usually do anyway...things can change right?

Since I live about 20 minutes from a grocery store, my pattern is to stop off on my way home from work. I HATE adding time onto my work day, so the decision to go in the evenings typically makes me put off going as long as possible. I also hate that I'm already hungry - actually staving by the time 6pm rolls around (which is never a good time to go to the grocery) and that my feet are usually absolutely killing me.

Anyway, I finally went last night, after about 4-5 weeks since my last visit, I figured it was time.

Other signs were:

-Eating cereal for dinner two/three nights last week and for lunch on Saturday

-Having an egg sandwich for dinner...I love breakfast food, BUT not every night for dinner!

-My co-worker bringing me lunch for two days in a row b/c I was draining our wallets going out to lunch

-Digging through my box I packed up from my old job (which I left in MAY) to find snacks to bring to work - what??

-Opening the refrigerator and pantry doors at my house and feeling SAD, DEPRESSED, AND HUNGRY...

Of course the fun continues when you get home i.e. carrying in all of the bags and putting stuff away that typically tacks on about 15 minutes to the entire process, which is AWESOME b/c then you get to look at the the yummy stuff that you still can't eat b/c the shopping job is not yet complete. BUT I guess there is always the option to buy something to MUNCH on in the car on the way home...for whatever reason, even though I think about this when I am shopping, I never break a seal on the way home because as I am putting bags in the trunk I convince myself that I can wait...

Despite the fact that I tend to prolong the food shopping experience, I am always so happy when I get home and have so many choices that I am actually overwhelmed. When this occurs, it generally takes me as long to figure out what I want for dinner as it did before I went to the grocery store and had nothing to chose from, but the meal outcome is much more in my favor.

The deal-maker for going last night was the fact that I had a pair of flip flops in the car that I was able to swap my heels for. I think I may be onto something here - who would have thought it couldbe so easy? I realize that it is a novel idea, but I believe if I could actually be semi-comfortable, I'd be much more inclined to visit The Food Gods a little more regularly and not despise it so greatly!

Do you eat bacon?

2008-07-28T14:13:00.005-04:00

Ok, so I got the funniest email from my aunt last week - at least I thought it was hilarious.

I hope she doesn't mind, but I thought I would share it here...this is not a forward :)

-------------------------------

"OK....so ya know how some days, you see something and you just have to sit and think...Hmmmmmm...

As most of you know, I live just up the street from the SPCA (animal shelter). Along with a large building to hold all the different animals there is also a corral of sorts and it often has horses, llamas .....and today a PIG!

So, I think to myself, I understand the concept of being tired of your pet, or can't take care of it any longer so you take it to the SPCA to be adopted out to another home.

But IF...and I am saying this is a really BIG IF.....IF you HAD a PIG for a pet (not the little cute pot belly kind but a full grown 400lb pig)....exactly when do you decide you've had enough...when it rolls in mud one too many times....gains a little more weight than you like.....so that in it's self can make one say...Hmmmmm.....but THEN.....what imbecile would think to take the PIG to the SPCA?!?!?!

Am I the ONLY one who has heard about BACON!?!?!?!?

THEN, this got me to thinking. WHAT IF>>> I were to go "rescue the Pig"? I only have to have it spade or whatever it is that one does to a pig and it's only $25....and then I can bring it home. I am thinking that is a LOT OF PORK FOR ONLY $25!!!!

Do I see yet another blessing come my way in disguise!?!?!?

We will be like Bubba on Forrest Gump....we'll have Pork Chops, Pork BarBQ, Pork Loin, Pork roast, Pork Rinds, Pork feet, ....do ya see where I am going with this one!?!?!? (and before anyone suggests, no there'd be no Pork Mountain oysters cause that is what the "spading" is for at the SPCA!!) LOL

Does this qualify me as an opportunist or a good Samaritan?!?!?!

I just realized most people don't ever have this issue come up for them.....I guess it's cause I live in the country! with wayyy too much time on my hands! :)"

---------------------------------

Thanks for the LAUGH!!! AND here is me annoying you again to keep up with that blog because you crack me up!

Um??? Did I do that?

2008-07-24T13:57:00.003-04:00

I just got back to my desk from lunch not too long ago and I heard my cell phone going off in my purse.

When I finally dug it out, I saw that the name on the screen was my college roommates and dear friends husband. I found it a little odd. The last time he called me it was for a 30th birthday party. Quickly I thought #1) I hope everything is OKAY #2) maybe there is another PARTY or #3) maybe she is using his phone - STRANGER THINGS HAVE HAPPENED!

I answered...it was the hubby...

A: Hello?

C: Watts - WHAT ARE YOU DOING?

A: Um? I'm at work

C: No, what are you doing cutting me off like that?

A: ERR? Excuse me? (thinking - I let you talk? What do you mean, cut you off?)

C: On Loudoun County Parkway!

A: Oh! I did?

C: Yeah, me and the whole line of cars behind me!

A: Uh - I'm so sorry - I had no idea that I cut anyone off at all!!!

I mean, do I need to go back and re-take behind the wheel or something? I hit my brothers girlfriends car and now I am cutting off friends and strangers and don't even know it. I think I dip off into my own little world a bit to much when I'm driving lately!

Into The Wild

2008-07-23T09:18:00.004-04:00

Regardless of the HEAT, last night I decided to go for a run outside - the treadmill can get so old. I had already picked up Bailee (this dog is so spoiled that he RARELY gets left at my house alone) and at times I will take him along on the run with me; however, it was still pretty hot out so I decided to leave him behind. As I closed the front door and headed off through the yard, I could hear the little guy letting me know that he was NOT ok with my decision. I feel guilty either way - if he goes his tongue is dragging the ground and he goes into a coma when we get home & if he doesn't go his little feelings get hurt. It's a lose/lose situation.

As my run was winding down, I spotted mom out on a walk. This is a VERY EXCITING time for mom and dad, as after 20+ years, they are getting ready to build a new house. Yesterday marked the beginning of the clearing of their lot AND mom was walking to take look at things. Despite the fact that I felt like my stomach was being RIPPED out due to hunger, I decided to tag along with her...

As we walked back we saw three deer run across the road right in front of us. This is pretty normal. I usually run with my iPod so that I don't hear all of the noises in the woods and get freaked out. This can at times almost cause me to have an accident *in my pants* as I am running along and a big buck leaps out in front of me! Mom and I eventually parted ways...as I got closer to my house and reached the tree line of my front yard - all of a sudden - I heard a noise...I looked to the right and a FOX - A HUGE FOX darted across the road about 10 yards ahead...and it came FROM MY YARD! G-R-E-A-T!!!!

I paused...and casually started going back in the opposite direction & about that time a car was passing by...I'm sure the driver was wondering WHY this girl was running towards his car and looking back over her shoulder...he slowed down and I could see him looking at me...I waved him on, but seriously I was SCARED TO DEATH.

I mean, this was not some little "cute" fox. The thing was a freaking giant. I would have thought it to be a medium sized dog, if it weren't for the GINORMOUS duster coming our of it's a$$! All I could be thankful for at that point in time was that Bailee was not with me...he would have gone APE$HIT at the sight of the animal and who knows what could have transpired.

The fox was headed towards my parents house...so upon getting inside safely I immediately called mom to tell her...she informed me that I am not allowed to let Bailee go outside on his own...and I informed her that I'm pretty sure my running just got reduced to the treadmill in the basement for a LONG WHILE!

The long way home

2008-07-22T09:43:00.003-04:00

Last night I left the office around 6:10pm - I knew I needed to go to the grocery store, which I absolutely despise; therefore, I battled with myself for about ten minutes as to whether or not I felt like going on the way home.

I was in the mood for cereal and was without milk at home, so I talked myself into taking the plunge. As I was getting out of the car I noticed something bright and shiny in the passenger floorboard...I was about to ignore it, but figured I should look closer. Upon investigating I found that my co-worker had left their car keys in my car at lunch.

Being that it was already 6:25pm by this point in time, I freaked out and called the office as quickly as possible. As I am telling them the story and letting them know that I am on my way back, I start my car up and *accidentally* hit the panic button! I scared myself and the people putting groceries in the car in front of me to death!

Lucky for me, I have set the panic button off a couple times...so I knew the drill...get out of the car...put the key in the door...hit the unlock button...I mean, as if you aren't already drawing enough attention to yourself, but whatever!

Then it was back to work again...so as I was now running 30 minutes behind and it was about 7pm before I left the office for the second time - I skipped the grocery on my way back out and I skipped working out when I got home.

I'm just thankful that I decided to stop in the first place; otherwise, I would have been A LOT further on my way before pne of us realized I had an extra set of keys in my car!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2008-07-17T14:23:00.003-04:00

So, I told a little white lie! One more post today...

Happy Birthday Aunt Angie!

I love you and miss you tons!

Kings Dominion

2008-07-17T13:46:00.003-04:00

So yesterday mom, Josh, Brittany, Aliyah and I set out for Kings Dominion. As usual it was a little bit of a late start that was not helped out by the fact that I plowed into Britt's car when pulling out of my garage! I'm not used to any cars being in the driveway and although my car has a reverse camera in the dash - I chose to ignore the screen and just back out. A few seconds later we heard the nice sound of paint hitting paint. NICE! Nothing like started out the day with a kink in your tummy before you even get to a roller coaster!!!

We had the best time together at KD. Aliyah is a little taller this year, so her choice of rides expanded a bit. The park wasn't too crowded...the longest we waited in lines was about 30 minutes or so...the middle of the week is a perfect time to go. Aliyah rode the Rebel Yell for the first time and I rode the Volcano with Josh and Britt for the first time. I LOVE THAT RIDE! It was an exhausting, but super day. Playing is hard work - especially in the heat! I was ready to pack it up and head home around 6pm (is this what happens the closer you get to 30?).

Aliyah's new thing to say is "I'm serious." Last Sunday when we picked her up she got in the car and said "I went to the dentist and I pwuk-did (sp?) - I'm serious! I did...I'm serious!"

Yesterday on the car ride home Brittany was telling Peanut that she was going to eat her. Aliyah responded by saying things like "No, no, no - you CAN'T - I'm serious!" or "I taste yucky...I'm serious." or "I taste like lion pookie - I'm serious!" (whatever lion-pookie is...I'm not sure?!?).

We ended up getting home by 830pm, which was FANTASTIC and I was in bed and asleep by 10pm...just in time to be back at the office today. It is so strange to have a day off in the middle of the week! HOWEVER, I am here today and gone tomorrow again - YAY!!! I have a meeting with a customer downtown in the morning and then I'm off to have beach fun this weekend!

As I am sure this will be my last post of the week - have an awesome weekend!!!!

You can click here to see all of our pics from the day trip (not too many) :)

PS - Mr. Cute called today...we may be going to lunch one day next week.

The Dating Game

2008-07-15T17:29:00.003-04:00

Ok, so this post it taking the BLOG to a place it has NEVER been before, but it's all about sharing so here goes...

Over the course of the last six months I have dabbled in dating. Sure it would be nice to have someone around. For obvious reasons I was used to that, BUT it has been nice to spend time just taking care of me! Some of the "dating" was more serious (as serious as you can be in three weeks) than others. Sometimes I didn't realize that I was going out on dates - that was until I was informed by a girlfriend that a guy never asks a girl to dinner because he wants to be friends. SILLY ME!

On occasion I'll go to happy hour with co-workers on Thursday nights. I never go into happy hour with the thought pattern that I may meet someone. I'm there to hang with my people and that's that. I usually avoid making eye contact simply because I don't feel like talking to strangers (especially at a bar).

This past Thursday I was sitting out on the patio of a local restaurant chatting with the girls and I noticed this fella through the window. He was cute and seemed to be looking my way every now and then. Time passed...

A little later a friend of mine and I walked in to use the bathroom and were immediately bombarded by a completely OBNOXIOUS male who continued to tell me #1) how he had been watching me all night and observing how good I was with people (OK -WEIRD!!), #2) that he was not interested b/c he is married (I think he spotted the concern on my face) #3) that he was a recruiter and if I ever wanted a job in sales to call him (UM, NEVER!!!).

About this time a friend of the cute window guy from earlier decides to come to our rescue by taking us over and introducing us to his friends....somehow I managed to talk to the guy that did the rescuing and not the cute guy for quite some time...the rescuer is married, has three girls, two are twins, and his wife has breast cancer...it was a very interesting conversation to say the least...

About 20 minutes into it - I was like - UH - what are you doing AMY? Why aren't you talking to Mr. Cute?? I am not usually forward and I wouldn't call stopping a conversation with the RESCUER so I could talk to MR. CUTE forward for anyone normal, but it was for me! After engaging in my new strategy, I ended up talking to Mr, Cute - for quite some time - and he seems to be an interesting guy...

Anyway, Mr. Cute asked if he could walk me to my car, asked for my number, open and closed the car door for me, and then called about an hour later to make sure that I made it home ok...I told him I accidentally left my debit card at the restaurant (probably too caught up in the fact that this nice guy wanted to walk me to my car) and he said "I wish I had known, it would have give me a reason to see you again." I laughed and then he told me that he already had a reason to see me again and then said "I'll call you next week." ME: "OK, talk to you next week."

The point of this post is that this is all so NEW to me. Very new. I have never really dated, and especially not at an age that I would consider adult or even close to where I am now in my life. It is exciting and it is super scary. I have questions!! What if he calls? What is he doesn't call? What if he isn't nice? What if he actually is nice and genuine? It's all so foreign and extremely bizarre.

I have to admit that I'll probably be slightly disappointed if I don't hear from Mr. Cute again, but at the same time - I can always chalk it up to practice, right?

AND - If anyone knows of where I can get a crystal ball - please contact me immediately!

Afraid of the dark?

2008-07-10T13:36:00.005-04:00

As many of you know I live in a home, in the woods, in the middle of nowhere...I must admit that over the last however many months I have done a fantastic job of staying there at night all alone. In fact I usually do not even give it a second thought.

This might not seem like a big deal to most, but I have a history of basically having panic attacks if I am anywhere alone after dark. There have been times that I have called people in the middle of the night and I was certain that there was someone in my home. There have been quite a few times when I found out that I was going to be home alone unexpectedly and I would immediately make arrangements to stay somewhere else. There was even a time that I was afraid to go from my parents house to my house to pack a bag when it was after dark.

My survival under the current circumstances are dependant upon the fact that I have developed a method to keep the madness at bay. This includes always having a nightlight or leaving a light on in the staircase and falling asleep with the TV on...I have found that distractions work and over time I have become more relaxed.

WELL...last night I was hanging out with my parents - after a run, dinner, and a trip to feed the fish - dad drove me home and right as we are pulling up in the driveway he asks "don't you ever get afraid of staying in that big house all alone?" I told him that surprisingly enough - I don't anymore.

Then as the big diesel approaches the garage he mentions something to me about how I really should have some sort of protection while staying there alone...

As I told him goodnight and got out of the truck, I proudly made a statement from the sidewalk to further ensue that I can handle it with just Bailee and me.

I turn and start walking up the sidewalk towards the front door and dad yells from the truck "Don't let Freddy get you!!!"

Of course immediately after that I felt my chest tighten up a little and was sort of freaked out when walking in the front door, but once I got inside and turned on a couple lights - I was fine. I can't say that I am no loner afraid of the dark - I definitely have my moments - I hate walking to and from my car to any building at night, and I have to be careful about what I am watching before I go to sleep (Ex: Psychic Kids on A&E is a WAY-WAY BAD CALL!!!), but for the most part I have found ways to keep the paralyzing fear away.

My question to you is - is this normal? I would assume so, but I fee like it is one of those things you are embarrassed to admit, but once you do - you find that you are not alone :)

HOLLA-DAY Weekend

2008-07-08T14:41:00.005-04:00

Friday Vineyard Visit

Friday I had the best time visiting with two girlfriends and going to local vineyards. We went to the Hillsboro and Purcellville area off of Rt. 9. Made me feel like I really take for granted where I live sometimes.

We Visited:

Hillsboro Vineyard; I rec the Serefina and the Moonstone

Doukenie; I am now a member (long story), but I rec the Mandolin and the Raspberry Dessert Wine

Loudoun Valley Vineyards; their Riesling and Classic White were sooo good!

Saturday Aliyah Stories

Saturday I joined up with my family at the campgrounds. I spent a ton of time pushing Aliyah on the swings and being terrified as she went down the slide.

She found a little inch worm and had to show Gram

Aliyah is a follower. She saw two older kids that would start out on the slide tummy down/ backwards and roll over to their bumms mid way down. I studied her absorbing the sliding style of the other children, but knowing how cautious and reserved she is - I thought there was no way she would be so brave.

The next thing I know I saw her at the top of the slide on her tummy about to go down backwards. I thought -OMG- she is really going to go down backwards & I better be at the bottom to help just in case...well about that time she headed down and started to roll over to her backside (it was an extremely cautious attempt on her part to roll over & you could tell by her movement that she herself was not sure about what she was getting ready to do), but all I saw were her legs coming over the edge of the slide. SO, I straight up panicked!

She was soon there after standing safely at the bottom and I found myself rushing over to her to tell her that she goes down the slide on one side or the other, BUT NO TURNING!!!

This makes me wonder what type of parent I will be. I don't want to be the one that hovers at all times to try to ensure that their child does not get hurt, but at the same time the kids might need a little direction on safety!

My very best memory of Saturday with the family at the campgrounds was watching the fireworks. Peanut crawled up in daddy's lap and I was sitting next to them listening to the few comments that were made...

Aliyah: Daddy, when it goes boom, boom it sounds like a monster
Josh: silence
Aliyah: Daddy, when it goes boom, boom it sounds like a monster
Aliyah: DADDY!!
Amy, Mom, Josh: YES, YES it does sound like a monster :)

She was referring to when the fireworks would shoot up in the air - the sound of them taking off makes a distinct noise...

I loved sitting in my chair and taking it all in...the silence that en captured the once very loud campground, the way everyone was looking up smiling...it made me realize that I never want to miss the fireworks around the 4th of July ever...it is such a special time...a few moments when everyone is happy.

Memory Tag

2008-07-07T10:29:00.004-04:00

Salvator Dali,

"The Persistance of Memory,"

1931

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn’t matter if you knew me a little or a lot, if we’ve actually met in person or not, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. If you don’t want to play on your blog, or if you don’t have a blog, I’ll leave my memory of you in my comments.

Great post idea from Amanda "My Version of the Story"

The “Friends” Movie Gets the Green Light

2008-07-03T09:31:00.002-04:00

This is super duper exciting!!!

From: Bricks and Stones

The highly anticipated film production of TV series Friends has finally been given the go-ahead. Cast members Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow and David Schwimmer will reprise their roles for a big-screen adaptation ‘within the next 18 months’, according to insiders. The actors have been inspired by the recent success of Sex And The City, which recently hit cinemas worldwide.

I just saw SITC last weekend and I absolutely LOVED it...can't wait to catch this one at the movies too!!!

"I eat, therefore I run"

2008-07-02T09:56:00.007-04:00

With old and new friends from work at the party

The post title is my spin on the popular Latin philosophical statement by by René Descartes "I think, therefore I am."

This past Friday afternoon, my company shut down at 2:30pm for our 20th anniversary celebration that took place at Lowe's Island. It was a super nice event that reminded me very much of a wedding reception - it seemed as though no expense was spared.

The very best part of the party were these Mrs. Fields oatmeal cookies with icing that had our corporate logo printed on them; however, at the time, I did not realize that this particular item would have been the highlight of the event in my eyes.

With my dear friend Apryle that I started working with in 2000 and have the pleasure to work with again!

The cookies were displayed in baskets around the room, so I grabbed up a couple and put them in my purse - one for me and one for a co-worker who was not able to attend.

As luck would have it, when I was leaving the party to grab a bite to eat with a couple work friends, two of the guys tagging along grabbed up about 6 extra cookies and stuffed them in my purse...

In between the club and the restaurant, I decided to try a cookie (probably b/c my purse was overflowing with them) and OMG, it was LOVE at first bite; it reminded me exactly of a favorite childhood treat - Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies! I was in heaven.

My resurrected love affair...

I told the co-worker riding with me (who was also one of the guys who put a couple cookies in my purse) that the treat tasted awful and that he would hate it AND I told him that we had to tell the other guy who would be looking for his cookies that they were DISGUSTING...of course this was done all in an effort to keep them all to myself...

I had one on Friday night, one Saturday morning with breakfast, one on Sunday afternoon with a glass of milk, skipped Monday, and had another on Tuesday morning at my desk with coffee...I did bring one in to a co-worker and now I am left with one remaining at home and I don't know if I can bring myself to part with it.

The silver lining is that as I was walking by a director's office yesterday (who was NOT at her desk), I spotted a TRAY - an entire TRAY of Little Debbie snacks...you might be wondering if my precious Oatmeal Cream Pies were on that tray and to me DELIGHT they were & they were all the super sized ones!!!

With my NEW friend Sarah at the party

At first I walked past (telling my self "NO") and then something came over me and I stopped in my tracks and returned to the office door...looked both ways as if to try to not get caught, ducked in and grabbed THREE cakes!!! WHAT???

In all honesty, I can not remember the last time I allowed myself to indulge in a Little Debbie snack - so I'm just going to go with it...

In part these weaknesses that I posses are why I work-out ergo the title of this post...I have a very strong feeling that I'll be spending a little extra time on the treadmill this week for sure!

Must Watch

2008-07-01T11:35:00.007-04:00

First off, I promise I do more in the evenings than watch tv! Thanks to the DVR and TIVO I can do things at my own pace and still catch my favorite shows; eat dinner when I want, do laundry when I want, and go for a run when I want - you know it's all about me! Hahaha! JKJK :)

Last night I was fortunate enough to have dinner with my parents. This used to be an exception to the norm, especially during the week, but as of late it has become a normal thing.

I walked in last night to my parents already having dinner, which of course is FINE; however, dad saw me coming up the sidewalk and he popped up out of his seat immediately. As I walked in he said he was going to put me a burger on the grill (BOCA - ha!). Despite my telling both parents to sit and eat -mom grabbed the burger, and dad grabbed the flame and he was outside before I even made it into the kitchen.

I told dad last night that I hated feeling like a mooch, and he said he couldn't think of anyone else he would rather have mooching (AWHHH)...about that time all three of the dogs came into the kitchen and he pointed out that they already had three mooches, so how much damage could the fourth do... G-R-E-A-T!

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THE BACHELORETTE!!! FINALE NEXT MONDAY - TUNE IN!

Anyway, to continue I got home right at 8pm as "The Bachelorette" was starting - YAY!!! Again, I can't really believe how into the show I am this season, but it is just so good. It's like I believe the feelings are genuine; ABC has me hook, line, and sinker!

I can't believe that DeAnna let Jeremy go, but I have to say that I am relieved. I was a tad bit worried b/c 1) he has been a favorite of hers since day one and 2) she kept saying how "perfect" her life would be with him. Despite all of his apparent wonderfulness (is that a word?) - I just didn't buy it!

Next week is the finale...I can't wait to see who she picks and in all honesty - I don't have a favorite when it comes to the last two...will it be Jesse or will it be Jason?

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INTERVENTION

Every Monday night I DVR "Intervention." This show comes on A&E and I am 100% fascinated by it.

For those of you that don't know, the show is based on doing a documentary about the addiction of 1-2 people who agree to be followed for a few days & let the cameras tape everything.

What they don't know is that their families arranged for this the "documentary" to happen, but the real reason for everything is so that a professional interventionist can come and assist the family with stepping in before it is too late for their loved ones...

If all goes well, the addict heads off for at least a 90 day treatment at the end of the show...

The raw human element that is exposed is just so incredible and their stories are gripping - this show is certainly not for everyone, but I think you should all give it a chance...I think it opens your heart, teaches compassion, and provides a better understanding of addiction.

PS - Only two more work days to go people!!!

"HOPKINS" aka AH-mazing

2008-06-27T14:23:00.006-04:00

Who watched the new real-life medical show/drama on ABC last night called "HOPKINS?"

IMO ~ it was awesome, fantastic, wonderful television!

If you missed it this week, watch the episode online or make sure you catch it next Thursday night at 10pm sharp...at minimum promsie me that you will set the DVR/TIVO!!!

Trust me; you simply will not regret it!

I have been a very bad girl...

2008-06-27T14:10:00.003-04:00

Some of you may remember that about a month or so ago, I did a post about not buying any more shoes this season...

Well, I tried my very best - I promise I did, but unfortunately the effort to withstand didn't last long at all.

I was at the beach over Memorial Day Weekend and while standing in line to see a band, my BFF and I noticed that the girl in front of us had on the *CUTEST* flip-flop style shoes.

Of course upon returning home from the trip we looked everywhere for the shoes without much luck, BUT thank goodness for the Internet!

I am only writing about this purchase because I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the shoes. They are just so adorable!

The BESTEST (haha) part is that the style is "dressy" enough for me to wear to work, but can go either way!!! HOLLA!!!

Steve Madden is having a sale on this wonder right now...check it out!

Happy Shopping!!!

Good WEDNESDAY Stuff

2008-06-25T09:15:00.008-04:00

Happy middle of the week!!!!

DAD UPDATE:

First of all, I have an update on my pops! *GOOD NEWS* The doctor called yesterday with the MRI results and apparently the swelling in his leg is due to a muscle (did not say which one) that has pulled away from the bone - I suppose this means that there has been damage to some of his tendons (I am going to be a smarty pants for a minute and inform you that tendons attach muscle to bone and ligaments attache bone to bone).

The swelling itself is due to the blood that has accumulated in the area b/c of the tear. I find it quite ODD that there isn't any bruising at all considering, but I have only taken anatomy - I am not medically certified in any way!

His doctor seemed shocked and amazed that dad does not seem to be in any pain - he said that most patients w/ this type of injury come into the office screaming...interesting. I would like to note that it has only been over the last couple days that dad has complained & that was only b/c of the discomfort from the pressure. The next step is for dad is to meet with a surgeon...as always I'll continue to keep you all updated.

-------------------------------------

A favorite show/guilty pleasure:

Have any of you been watching "The Bachelorette" this season? It has been years since I fell victim to this show, but I must admit that I am currently watching! Through my love of the Ellen show, I was introduced to this seasons bachelorette DeAnna. Much like Tristen, DeAnna was previously on the Bachelor and made it to the final two before not being chosen...

Anyway, DeAnna is adorable and I really hope this works out for her. This past Monday's episode was so incredibly heart wrenching! I was *crying* at the end - kind of embarrassing, but whatever.

I so wanted to see DeAnna with Graham...why do I always want the "bad boy" to turn good? I mean, it just doesn't happen!

Just want to know your opinion if you have been watching too.

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Musically behind the times:

A few months ago, a blogging friend Kelly, aka The Abel Boys did a post on Jason Mraz (a fellow Virginian - yahoooo!). I definitely read the post and was familiar with some of his songs, but right when I started watching the video for his new song "I'm Yours" I got completely sidetracked and never went back.

Well, a couple of weeks ago I caught the video on VH1 and totally geeked out over it. The song is awesome. I'm a donkey b/c I went to buy the CD, but didn't know how to spell his last name and was unable to find it, but I am back on the hunt.

I actually recorded the video about two weeks ago on my DVR and I listen to the song anywhere from 2-3 times every morning :)

The song is so incredibly sweet and has a awesome summer/island beat...I highly recommend checking it out.

Here is the link to Kelly's post about Jason and his new song "~ I am in Love ~"

Thanks K - it only took me this long to catch up, but I got there!!!

Adventures in Babysitting - Our Trip to the Zoo

2008-06-23T16:50:00.016-04:00

I mean, when you say "we are going to the zoo" it just sounds so fun and carefree doesn't it? In reality we all know that it is an ordeal!!!

We really did have a good time on Saturday; it was exhausting to say the least, but a fun day nonetheless.

The funniest part of the day to me had to do with Aliyah's attire. I think I may have mentioned recently that is usually takes a few of us to get her ready to go when she is with Josh...

Well on Saturday morning I got to mom's and found the peanut wrapped up in a towel - she had just gotten out of the shower. Josh handed me what we thought was her outfit for the day and I helped her get dressed. Then mom comes in to tell us that she had another outfit (a new one) picked out SO I ended up having Aliyah change. The outfit was a little big, but time was of the essence, so we ran with it...

I doused her head with spray-in conditioner, slapped on her shoes, grabbed a few hair ties and we were out the door.

When we got on the metro mom braided Aliyah's hair...it looked so cute, BUT mom also noticed what I had noted earlier - Aliyah's shirt tended to fall a bit *low* in the front.

Peanut is VERY CONSERVATIVE. She will often times tuck my straps in, pull my shirt up, or roll her eyes at me when I am acting silly. I tend to go out of my way to embarrass her when I am trying on clothes and she is in the dressing room with me - it is completely innocent! Just trying to have a little fun!

When we got off the metro and were walking to the zoo, we noticed A. kept lifting up her shirt in the front and holding on to it. She was definitely feeling uncomfortable and so were we; therefore, it wasn't long before gram bought her a new shirt - actually it was our FIRST stop once getting to the zoo.

Fast forward about an hour and I notice that it is blazing hot out and that A. is turning a little red...DUH! How could we have forgotten to put sunscreen on a 4 year old? Josh ends up buying a tablespoon of sunscreen for $4.00...

Mom still feels bad and being concerned that Peanut's head will burn - Gram buys the little one a new hat...

Josh felt bad b/c A was tired of walking so he went and rented a stroller...

Fast forward again, as we were leaving the zoo, I took A. to the potty and noticed a bunch of scratches on her tummy - it was clear that it was not a rash, so I assumed the scratches must have come from her belt (compliments of the new outfit). We are standing in a stall that can't be more the 1.5 feet wide and 100 degrees - I am sweating my @$$ off and struggling to get her belt through the loops (while she sways back and forth during my tugging motion)...the belt ends up breaking, BUT we got it off...

To summarize:

-started off the day with a NEW outfit est. $20.00

-bought new shirt $15.00

-boought sunscreen $4.00

-bought new hat $12.00

-rented stroller $8.00

And what was left of the new outfit at the end of the day??? The shorts!

You can see in the picture to the left that Aliyah held on to the belt...for whatever reason she was fascinated with it - she made a bracelet on her arm, etc...it did go to good use keeping her entertained on the metro ride home!

I think we all learned a lesson to be a little more prepared next time! It sure would save some frustration and some MULAH!$!$!

Mondee Updates

2008-06-23T10:33:00.006-04:00

Hey ya'll!

My business trip last week went really well. I was only scheduled to be out of town Wedn-Thurs, but at the customers request my stay was extended until Friday. At the time I was informed (after 12am on Thurs), I was all for the stay, but the following morning I realized that I didn't have my laptop, my blackberry charger, or very many clothes left! Just like always, everything has a way of working itself out!

I think I failed to mention that I went to Boston, which BTW, is a super cool city. I loved it! I want to go back!! The really neat thing was that we got there right after the Celtics won the championship ergo there were GREEN jerseys everywhere!!! The victory parade was on Thursday and went right by our hotel - pretty neat stuff :)

I got home on Friday afternoon (refused to go into the office). My brief stop at mom and dads to pick up the dog, turned into fixing myself lunch, finding a couch, and sleeping for about 3-4 hours!

The view of Boston from my hotel room :)

Saturday morning we got together to take Aliyah to the zoo (I'll post about that later).

Saturday night I met up with a dear friend (I've known this person since 2nd grade) for a couple of hours and I sincerely had the very best time. I found myself wondering why I hadn't kept in better touch over the last five years. I had hoped to meet up again last night, BUT I was lucky enough to have my sinuses flare up again during the night on Saturday & they left me completely out of commission yesterday! I was one hot mess! I just hope my ears stay unclogged this time!

Despite all of the sleep I got both yesterday and last night, I am *TIRED* today...maybe I slept too much, but it was like my body was on a mission :)

Now about dad - his poor leg is still swollen. He went to his primary doctor towards the end of last week and again underwent tests for a blood clot, which came back negative (again - thank god). The doctor insinuated that it can take up to a few weeks for the B.C. to show up on tests. An MRI was ordered for 830am on Saturday (Dad couldn't go to the zoo :( not that it would have been good for him to be on his leg all day). We hope to hear the results of the MRI at some point today.

Thanks for check in on dad and I'll keep you posted!

MUAH!
Amy

The struggle...

2008-06-17T15:40:00.009-04:00

First of all, I had the BEST lunch buddies today because mom and Aliyah came down to meet me at work...

I was so hungry and ready to start chewing on my arm when I called mom around 1245pm to see where they were. Mom said she really had no idea how long it took to get two people ready to go anymore...poor thing - clearly, she has been out of practice for a while AND usually when we have Aliyah, we are able to tag team on getting the peanut ready to roll.

I had hoped that they would get to Ashburn a little earlier than 130pm (haha!) so I could take a longer lunch than usual and run around with them for a bit, but seeing as how it was already 230pm when we were wrapping up lunch, I had to head directly back to the office *BUMMER*

Aliyah took this of mom and I - not too bad :)

So on to the "struggle". As they were dropping me back off at work, I got out of the car and walked around to Aliyah's door to tell her bye and give hugs/kisses. She was intensely watching "The Grinch" and sort of tilted her head towards me so I could give her a little kiss as if I was bothering her.

The little ham LOVES my car key; it sort of flips out like a swtichblade...she was digging through my purse for toys

About a split second later she pulled her head back and looked up at me with *big sad eyes and a pout* and said "you're going on an air-pane?" (I found out a few minutes earlier that mom had explained to her that I was going somewhere) I responded by telling her that "yes, I have to go on an airplane for work, but I'll be back later this week and I'll be around for the fun things this weekend!" Then she said "you're going to miss Corey's birfday?" By this time my heart is MELTING - I confirm to her that I would miss the birthday party tonight...

A little spaghetti goes a long way :) PS - note the bib...to console her pride, I also wore one today!

Right about then she laid her little head over on my shoulder and I just about lost it people. I felt tears welling up in my eyes for crying out loud. At that moment and every other time that I leave her - I just don't want to! My struggle is the feeling that I am somehow missing out on something / anything that is going to happen or not happen in her precious life when I am not there.

I can only imagine what parents go through as their children grow, become more independent, and eventually go out into the world on their own. I feel like I get a very small taste of this every time that Aliyah and I part.

To get her to eat, mom started helping...the spoon had so much food on it! Look at her expression!!!

It really is so bittersweet.

You are very proud of them for the little person that they are and proud of the person they are turning into, but at the same time - you want everything to stop and for time to stand perfectly still...is I had one wish today, it would be to never miss a single moment of her life :)

Father's Day

2008-06-16T12:24:00.005-04:00

On Saturday night dad showed me that one of his legs was significantly swollen. I don't like to even begin to ponder something being wrong with either of my parents (I mean, who does?), so when he guessed it could be a blood clot - I immediately put that thought out of my head...I wanted nothing to do with the possibility!

My dad ended up spending a good chunk of Father's day making trips between urgent care and the hospital, while the medical experts tried to figure out what was the cause. I stayed calm through most of Sun. morning UNTIL I finished my work-out and saw that I had missed THREE calls from Josh and mom (if anyone is wondering - this is not normal). I listened to my VM and heard mom's message that they were leaving urgent care and going to the hospital and the doctor was sure it was a blood clot...

I hung up and called Josh & he seemed sort of relaxed about the whole thing, so I played off of his mood and tried to be cool...this lasted about ten minutes before I lost all composure while getting ready...so many thoughts run through your head and even if you try to stop them - it is difficult.

To shorten the story, a ton of tests were run at the hospital and it is no longer believed to be a blood clot (TG!); however, the symptom is still undiagnosed = 50% relief 50% worry.

Aliyah, Josh, Brittany, the dogs and I were all at mom and dads for a couple of hours anxiously waiting on them to get home...I made my best grilled cheese lunch for the four of us. When I told them that I was going to fix lunch Aliyah alarmingly looked at me and said "YOU KNOW HOW TO COOK?!?" Thanks for the vote of confidence Peanut!

After my parents got home we all hung out for a bit and then had dinner together. Dad always asks Aliyah is she wants to say grace. She does not like to be the center of attention, so she paused before responding. I told her that I love it when she says the dinner prayer so she clasped her little hands together, bowed her head and began:

"Thank you for Valentine's Daddy...thank you for Amy...and thank you for Gram...Amen"

After she finished, I so wanted to laugh (we all did), but it is difficult...it was so cute and you want to make a big deal out of it just because, but you also have to be careful with their little spirit. It was clear to me that her reference to Valentine was LOVE for Daddy on Father's Day. She knew was she meant and so did we, but the way she chose to share it was adorable and priceless!

After dinner, we all piled into mom and dads room (where the only tv upstairs is) and wrestled on the bed, tickled, threw pillows...somehow Aliyah always ends up crying and of course Gram comes in to scoop her up and take her away until she calms down. This time when Aliyah came back, she went right to the horseplay and kindly reminded us that we needed to be gentle with her because she is "just a little kid". Without even hearing it, I knew the conversation mom must have had with her to explain why she gets hurt (more so her feelings) when playing around with us BIG KIDS.

We rounded out the day by riding the 4x4 around and having dessert...all in all a fabulous day...it was one Father's day that I will never forget...I'll keep ya'll posted on dad too :) I went home for a little while and then back over to my parents. Josh has Aliyah this week and she was staying over at Gram and Pop-pop's last night.

My night's sleep or lack there of, from laying next to a 4 year old, is a completely different post!

As usual click here for all of our pics...I promise there are not as many this time! :)

Mosaic Puzzle

2008-06-12T11:45:00.007-04:00

I got this idea from Amanda's Blog. I must admit that it took me a little while to figure it out, but I am so excited that I did and I had so much fun with it. Thanks so much for the great arts and crafts post girl!!!

Follow the simple steps to create your own!

a. Type your one-word answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.

b. Using only the first page, pick an image.

c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into mosaic maker.

Amy's Mosaic

1. What is your first name? Amy

2. What is your favorite food? Pizza

3. What high school did you go to? Clarke County High School

4. What is your favorite color? Pink

5. Who is your celebrity crush? George Clooney

6. Favorite drink? Newcastle Ale

7. Dream vacation? Greece

8. Favorite dessert? Dump Cake

9. What you want to be when you grow up? Young at heart

10. What do you love most in life? LIFE

11. One Word to describe you. Passionate

12. Your flickr name. wattsup10

TgIf & HaPpy FrIdAy!!!

Here is the key to the Flickr photos above in case you are intrigued :)

1. Amy Butler Fabric yo yo Bag, 2. Shakey's Pizza, 3. Primary Colors, 4. spotted or striped anywhy..fashion!, 5. George Clooney, 6. 66/365, 7. Windmills, Oia, Greece, 8. Dump Cake, 9. Young At Heart, 10. Joy of life, 11. Passionate, 12. Watts Chapel - Compton - Surrey

The Family Circus

2008-06-11T08:17:00.005-04:00

This past weekend was so much fun celebrating dad's birthday. I really don't know how we manage to fit everything in...it is like we set out to conquer the world in two days!

Friday night after work I drove to meet everyone at Josh's and we went out to our favorite Mexican spot for dinner.

Before leaving Josh's, Aliyah and I had our usual tickling battle (I love to hear her little giggle), except this time she decided to tickle me back...the funniest thing about it was that she taught me something new! She went for my underarm area (just about the only spot that makes me laugh & it is 100% uncontrollable...) Aliyah has learned through trial and error that no other location works on me. Anyway, as she was tickling me, she said "I'm brushing your teeth!" I thought it was hysterical! When you think about it, it really is like brushing teeth :)

Saturday was the CIRCUS day. Here is the timeline:

- 930am hair appointment

-1130am met mom to do some shopping

-130pm met Josh and Aliyah to pick out dad's gift

-330pm met dad to take Aliyah to see "Kung Fu Panda"

-600pm stopped by my house to wrap the gift, etc

-715pm back to mom and dads to meet up for dinner

-800pm dinner reservations

-1000pm back at mom and dads for cake and gifts

-1100pm finally home again and so ready for bed

The cutest thing happened when we were having cake on Saturday night. Aliyah and I were sitting across from each other at the little table in the kitchen and I looked up and saw green icing all over her face; mouth, cheeks, forehead - you name it. Mom sort of scrambled over to wipe her down & wouldn't you know, just as she did that, Aliyah went to wipe her hands down her clothes!

After this happened I said "Mom, give her a bib..." sort of joking - sort of not...

Aliyah looked up at me, and in the most sarcastic four year old tone said "GIVE - ME - A - BREAK!"

On Sunday the five of us met up again to go to a graduation party. On the way there, Josh, Aliyah, and I were sitting three across on the middle seat of the car having bubble blowing and gum cracking contests while watching "The Grinch" and I think we successfully managed to get on mom and dads nerves :)

The picnic was nice, but OMG was it HOT! The heat was draining...on the way home, Aliyah wanted to watch "Alvin and the Chipmunks." She really loves the songs in the movie and singing along. She looked over at me and said "OK, I'm going to sing along and you dance." I agreed and went along with the plan. After the first song in the movie, my eyes got a little heavy so I leaned over and rested my head on her car seat. As the second song came on she tapped me on my forehead and told me "it is time to dance again." Sort of reluctant to move at all, I sat up and wiggled around in my seat...I think she could tell that I wasn't really into it so Aliyah looked up at me and said "it's ok, you can sing along too."

Click here for all of the pictures from the weekend...

Imaginative Excuses for Coming in Late

2008-06-10T10:29:00.004-04:00

I'm in the midst of taking one of the MOST BORING tests EVER! My wonderful company signed me up to participate in an EMC (server storage crap - *BIG - HUGE - YAWN*) accreditation test, which I was originally told that I had until this Friday to complete - well - things change & I now have to complete it by tomorrow - YAY!

Anyway, I'm an idiot b/c I started one module of the five module test last week and was only using the power point slides online to locate the answers (sort of open book if you will). I got so frustrated b/c I could not find the answers on the slides...I felt like I was taking a test in Russian...literally! Needless to say, I shut down the test and took a short break, that lasted from last Wednesday to TODAY

Now that time is of the essence I can no longer afford to put this deal off, so I jumped right into it this morning. To my amazement, I discovered that there are SLIDE NOTES on the side of each page of the presentation that offer a TON of more info and believe it or not - the answers are in the notes too! EUREKA!

Thank God for small favors and for the fact that my brain eventually catches up!

Since module one and I didn't get along last week, I decided to start with module two this morning...we played much nicer together and I finished #2 with an 87% so I decided to reward myself with a break and while browsing online I found this article on MSN, which is/was PERFECT for me...

Imaginative Excuses for Coming in Late

Use your imagination

More than 27 percent of hiring managers say they are skeptical of employees' excuses for showing up late. It turns out their doubt is warranted: 24 percent of all employees decide to make up a fake excuse rather than tell the truth.

What does this mean to you?

If you're sitting in a traffic jam watching the minutes tick away and you've decided honesty isn't the best policy for you, think of a believable and acceptable reason you're walking in late. After all, if you were a hiring manager who heard any of these 10 real-life excuses for being late, you'd be suspicious, too.

**NOTE FROM AMY: Please really try to imagine yourself using these**

1. While rowing across the river to work, I got lost in the fog.
2. Someone stole all my daffodils.
3. I had to go audition for American Idol.
4. My ex-husband stole my car so I couldn't drive to work.
5. My route to work was shut down by a presidential motorcade.
6. I have transient amnesia and couldn't remember my job.
7. I was indicted for securities fraud this morning.
8. The line was too long at Starbucks.
9. I was trying to get my gun back from the police. (my personal favorite)
10. I didn't have money for gas because all of the pawnshops were closed.

HAHAHA! I could not stop laughing! Can't you just hear the dead silence coming from the phone and then your boss's response???

Ah well - that's it for me for now...module three is calling my name - yipee!!!

The year was 1954...

2008-06-06T09:36:00.005-04:00

Threading my fishing hook

And this is some of the "stuff" that was going on:

* Elvis Presley has his first commercial recording session at Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee. (I saw this building when I visited.)

* Bill Haley and His Comets record "Rock Around the Clock" in New York City for Decca Records.

* The World Series is broadcast in color for the first time. NY Giants defeat Cleveland (4-0).

* Ellis Island, the immigration station in NY Harbor, is closed. Between 1892 and 1954, 12 million immigrants were processed at Ellis Island.

* M&M's Peanut Chocolate Candies were introduced.

*General Electric introduces colored kitchen appliances. Bye, bye white!

* Disneyland opened...

* The Tonight Show begins airing on the NBC network

* Brown v. Board of Education. Landmark school desegregation case...

Also on June 7, 1954 life began for one of the most remarkable and special individuals I will ever know...

birthday dinner 2007

Without this person, I would not be here...without this person having the incredible soul that they do - I would not be the person that I am today...

*TEARS*

Dad, I wish you the very best birthday tomorrow...I look forward to all of us spending time together to celebrate the amazing person that you are. I love and cherish you, not only on your birthday, but each and every day of my life; I am reminded on this very special day - to slow down and make sure you know how richly blessed my life is because you are a part of it.

Easter 2008

I could write forever about all of the things you have done for me and I could never even come close to thanking you the way I wish I could, but with every ounce of gratitude that I am able to pull from within, I want you to know that you are appreciated and loved far beyond the expression of words...

HaPpY bIrThDaY dAdDy!!!

A post for the women...

2008-06-04T11:18:00.005-04:00

So, I feel like complaining this morning; that is a shocking statement, I know!!

Most times I appreciate the fact that I was brought into this lifetime as a female; however, there is that one time *every single month* where I could really do without having ovaries (which is what they tell me is responsible for the 12 weeks of H-E-Double Hockey Sticks a year)!

The timeline of my week...

Sunday: irritable, tired, night sweats, and crazy dreams

Monday: irritable, lethargic, sad, hungry, hot, chocolate cravings, night sweats, and crazy dreams

Tuesday: irritable, exhausted, depressed, random thoughts, hot, HUNGRY, bloated, cramped, HEADACHE, backache, and night sweats

Wednesday: the reason for all of the above finally arrives- of course the arrival does not mean that all of the above exists!

Clearly, none of this is any surprise to me as I (along with every other woman on the planet) have been blessed with this experience since middle school; however, every once in a while it is nice to daydream about the possibility of not dealing with it, but the reality is that in about 28 more days I'll be complaining again!!!

Happy Wednesday!!

The Cleaning Olympics...

2008-06-02T14:58:00.006-04:00

Of course this has to do with the house being shown...I feel like I should have learned my lesson by now...

Saturday I got a call around 6pm from my realtor that the house was being shown on Sunday around 330pm...the time was FINE b/c even though the house was a DISASTER, that would give us plenty of time to get things in order. I texted about mowing the lawn and weed eating and everything was a go.

Bright and early on Sunday around 7am Bailee woke me up to go out - I was reluctant to crawl out of bed, but knew I needed to clean, so I made coffee and decided to stay up and not go back to sleep (in hindsight - thank goodness!).

I probably started cleaning around 8/830am and was taking my good old time - I decided to check my cell around 930 and saw a missed call from the realtor. I assumed the visitors for the day were cancelling, but when I listened to the message I heard that they were now coming between 11/1130am...UH - I freaked out...the amount of cleaning that was left to do (A LOT) - which could have easily taken me from 930 until 1pm or later now had to be crunched into an hour-ish...

I notified the responsible party that the time slot for mowing etc had now decreased drastically and I went off to do my part...

At 945am on Sunday June 1st, The Cleaning Olympics commenced in Boyce, Va. Still in my PJ's, hair up, dirty face and un-brushed teeth - I started to run around like a mad woman...up and down the stairs...doing something in one room...then something in the next - back and forth - full throttle. Bailee finally gave up on following me after about five minutes of running in circles around the house. Seriously, I have NEVER cleaned a shower so quickly in all my life!

At 10:50am I decided that I had done all I could...still in my PJ's, etc I grabbed up Bailee and headed over to mom and dads - looking a bit like a train wreck to say the least - the last thing I wanted was to be seen by another realtor and her client...it probably would have completey changed the impression of the house! When I rolled into my parents, they looked a little shocked by my arrival and my appearance :)

To make a LONG STORY short, I was basically unable to tell when the agent came by, so I was stuck at mom and dads - in the same shape that I arrived - until 4pm, *several* episodes of "The Alaska Experiment", and three naps later when I decided I didn't care anymore and I was going home.

I missed a friends party and I missed dinner with another friend, but the house looked pretty darn good!

UPDATE: My realtor called this morning to inform me that the people looking at the house yesterday LOVED IT and said it is SO BEAUTIFUL, BUT (and you know there is a BUT) the house is too big...the size of the house is "as plain as the nose on my face" if you look at the listing!

Whatever! I guess I'm happy that at least someone came to look at the house and the *DOUBLE BONUS* is that I got an undercover work-out in...

PS - my hands actually hurt/ache from cleaning..I guess typing on the keyboard isn't exercise enough for them!!!

A special visitor...

2008-05-30T21:02:00.008-04:00

Last weekend I went to the beach with friends for Memorial Day. The last I had heard - Josh did not have Aliyah for the weekend...then on late Friday night I saw that I had missed two calls from Josh's cell right at 6pm and I knew he had my peanut for the weekend...and I was not at home :(

I talked to Josh and Aliyah on Saturday and again on Monday. Traffic on the way home was heavy and in the back of my mind I had convinced myself that I wasn't going to get to see Aliyah for two more weeks...

My phone conversation with peanut in the car on the way home Monday was a little alarming...

A: Hi Peanut...what have you all been doing?

P: We're at Grams

A: You are? Are you having fun?

P: Did you hear what happened to Bailee?

A: NO! WHAT HAPPENED TO BAILLE??

P: It's ok...he's okay.

A: Aliyah, what happened to Bailee???

P: He's okay.

A: Aliyah, let me talk to daddy please...

A: Josh, what happened to Bailee?

J: I don't know what she is talking about...she has been in the other room playing with the dogs, but Bailee is fine...

A: She scared me to death!!

As luck would have it I got to mom and dads at 530pm - right as Josh was getting ready to leave...so I scooped Aliayh up and gave her the biggest hug! Isn't it wonderful when they lay their head on your shoulder??

Aliyah took off running after I put her down and I knew she wanted me to chase her and so that is exactly what I did. Josh told her every time we made a loop past him in the family room "Aliyah, you need to put on your shoes" - this happened again and again.

Then when we got out to the driveway the chasing continued...Josh kept telling her "Aliyah, you have to get in the car - it's time to go home." After three or four laps around the driveway, I helped her get in the car and kissed her on the forehead - assuring her that the next time she is with daddy - Aunt Amy will be there :)

Courtesy of my dad, we all thought that he and Josh were leaving for a salmon fishing trip to NY bright and early Tuesday morning...I was a little bit surprised when I got home Tuesday evening & stopped to pick up Bailee that dad was still home....

A: UH- Dad, what are you doing here? I thought you were leaving today?

D: Well, I did too...but we are really supposed to be leaving tomorrow.

(good thing he figured that out)

Dad was grilling out and again gave me the third degree when I said I couldn't stay for dinner...as I was leaving I said "so - you are going salmon fishing" and dad says - "NO, I was wrong about that too; we are going bass fishing..." Poor dad!

This brings me to tonight...sitting on the couch - hanging out - waiting on Josh's girlfriend Brittany to come over and hang out and all of the sudden the doorbell rings. I live in the country & the doorbell doesn't ring that often people!!! I was caught off guard b/c it was too early for Brittany to be arriving...

Much to my surprise and delight it was Josh. I guess he was really coming by to see B b/c he and dad had just gotten back from their trip...dad had told him that he would be a horrible person if he didn't come and see her before going home to rest...needless to say, she was not here - so he got me!

It was a short visit, but just awesome...it was probably the most excited I had been to see anyone all week - like I had just opened the door and found Santa Clause!

We stood in the kitchen and talked about his trip, which sounded incredible - I was so excited for them! Then Josh reaches into a bag he brought in and starts unwrapping something and he handed me a trinket...I was like "IS THIS FOR ME???!!!???!!!" He told me it was and I was just beside myself with excitement! You would have thought that someone had just handed me a $100 bill or better yet a gift card for gas!

There is a sibling appreciation that comes with age and I so admire my brother. Don't get me wrong - we still fight, bicker, and pick on each other - I have a pretty strong feeling that will never change; however, there is something to be said about that other person in the world that is your genetic counterpart and having shared most everything in life with them in one way or another...

Josh is great brother, that knows exactly how to push my buttons - but more than than he is a loving son, a wonderful man, and an incredible father that I admire and look-up to despite my being almost two years older than him.

I love you Josh - thank you for all that you are and for the visit tonight!

Victory is sweet!

2008-05-22T09:25:00.005-04:00

I mean - how exciting is it that David Cook won American Idol last night????

I really got into the show this year and I SO wanted D.C. to win, but had this gut feeling based off of the show on Tuesday night that it was going to go the other way...

I was sitting on the couch in great anticipation around 9:50pm (Bailee was tucked in his favorite spot i.e. under the blanket on my lap and snuggled by my legs) and I was so nervous...I was also feeling guilty because I completely forgot to vote on Tuesday night...thinking to myself if D.C. loses I am going to feel so bad b/c I didn't show my support...

Then the moment of truth arrived - David Cook won by an astounding 12 million votes!!! HOLLA!!! Which - BTW - is exactly what I did! I screamed "YAY" & kicked my legs up in the air...scaring Bailee to death :) The poor little guy ran out from underneath the blanket and to the end of the couch where he looked back at me like "What?" - "What just happened?" - "Should I be barking?"

I think I cried (I am a BIG SAP) for about five minutes or more & then called mom and dad because I knew they were just as excited I me :)

Anyway! So excited still...and I can't wait for his album!

What did you say?

2008-05-20T13:50:00.008-04:00

Karma, paybacks, tit for tat, get what you got coming to you...etc!

Over the course of the last week I've had trouble with my left ear & I think it is due to sinuses...I'm kind of stubborn about going to the doctor so I have been trying to self-medicate to the best ability of the local pharmacy...

Last Wednesday night, my left ear felt like there was so much pressure inside that something was going to burst, so being the independent person that I am - I called mom and dad for help :) I went over to their house and mom used this homeopathic remedy called ear candling. I was a bit nervous about it - she has used them on Aliyah, so I figured if peanut did it without being afraid, I too should be able to handle the experience...my ear felt better afterwards & I *borrowed* some NyQuil from them and then went on my way.

The following morning I woke up and turned on the tv to watch the news & the TV was echoing; I did my best troubleshooting to find out what was causing the tv echo, but had no luck (thinking great, now the tv is messed up!). I turned off the tv & turned on my alarm clock radio and heard the same noise...by this time I'm a bit freaked out thinking that some sort of electromagnetic field is active around the house (UM, does anyone think that I may have watched a little TOO MUCH OF LOST lately??) - anyway, so I turn off the radio and continue to get ready...it is not until I get in the car and turn on the radio and hear the exact same echo that I realize that there is nothing wrong with the house, but that it is my ear!!!!

Anyway, over the course of the next few days everything with the ear seemed to be getting better - that was until yesterday morning when I woke up feeling the same sort of growing pressure...again I was off the to drug store at lunch and I have been popping Tylenol and DayQuil like they are PEZ for the last day without much relief...

TODAY I have virtually NO HEARING in my left ear and it is just awful! This whole experience has made me think of my dad and how I make fun of his hearing loss (remember the Chuckie Cheese post??). All day I have found myself A) asking "what did you say" a lot B) saying "huh" and "what" constantly C) turning my head to the left to position my right ear forwards towards the speaking party D) talking louder (because I can't hear myself) like I have on headphones!

The reason I know that this is noticeable to others is A) my work friend told me that she was not going to talk to me for the rest of the day because she keeps having to repeat herself and B) when a team member walked up to my desk five minutes ago and I started talking to him - his eyeballs looked like they were going to pop out of his head and to that response I asked "am I talking loud??" and he responded by saying "it is not the best cubicle voice!"

I'm sorry dad! I so, so, so, so very sorry! I can't promise that I won't laugh again because - well - I just can't, BUT I'll definitely try to be more nice about it because quite franly - this sucks!!!

And I think I might really need to go to the doctor after all...it's miserable!

Blood is thicker than water...

2008-05-19T22:07:00.009-04:00

or so the saying goes...

I don't tend to think that I'm OLD AND WISE by any stretch of the imagination...I look forward to all of the life lessons that I have yet to learn - well, most of them anyway...I'm sure that there are some I'd rather do without, BUT>

What I have learned and something that I have said for a long time is that you can't pick your family - you are just kind of stuck with them and they are stuck with you (sorry, but it is true :))...sometimes the ONLY similarity is buried deep down within the genetic make-up that is flowing within our bodies and that is EXACTLY where any and all commonalities STOP! If it were only about friendship, and the ties that bind were not involved - who knows???

Earlier today I was reflecting on two (well three actually) family members that I am so very thankful for...I would say that our relationship really started to grow and evolve into more back when I was in high school and I'd go over to their house after softball practice to tan for prom (LOL)...what I'm sure we all thought would be daily 20 minute visits *ALWAYS* turned into much, much more.

Fast forward to ten years later: twice in the last week I have given them a call to come over in the evening to once again *borrow* some fake sun and the experience immediately takes me back to high school...except now instead of asking about boyfriends or the baby that's on the way (them not me BTW!) we are discussing paint colors for the wall...

I so cherish the time with them...whenever I find out that we are doing something with these three *SPECIAL* people - I always get genuinely excited...I love going over to their house because it is a home away from home; I'm not necessarily talking about four walls, but more so the beauty of their spirits that you feel immediately...I love our conversations, cracking jokes, making fun of each other...the understanding and the unconditional love...

This post makes me think of my favorite part of "The Grinch":

"And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so?

It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags.

And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore.

Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before.

What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store.

What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”

I think what I'm trying to say is: one lesson I am thankful for realizing - is that *sometimes* you find the best friendships and life's largest blessings if you look a little closer at what has been there all along :)

I could never really wrap my arounds around thanking these three for all that they are to me, but all I can say is **THANK YOU**!

A little healthy competition is not always wanted

2008-05-17T09:15:00.006-04:00

Last weekend was so much fun...bright and early on Saturday I went to an estate auction in Clarke County with mom and dad. It was on a very old farm called Walnut Grove...going to auctions is a favorite past time of my parents and something the Josh and I have grown to enjoy as well.

Mom and dad bought some really awesome antique pieces & Josh and I picked up a couple things as well...there was a belt from the REVOLUTIONARY WAR that sold for $4,000...then the man that purchased it just kind of stood there holding it for the longest time - like it was nothing!

Aliyah and Josh got to the auction after lunch and her questions about what was going on were difficult to answer to say the least! She informed me that the auction was "weird."

Questions about the auctioneer / auction:
1) Why is he talking like that?
2) Why does he keep saying the same thing?
3) Why do people keep raising their hand?

It is sort of challenging to try to explain to a four year old that someone passed away and their lifelong possessions are being sold...even more brain racking is the attempt to explain what the auctioneer is saying and why...

In true fashion of our family, we managed to stop the auctioneer and have the group of people attending stop in their tracks!

Mom liked a coffee table and so did Josh...dad knew mom liked the coffee table...Mom, Josh and I were in the tent where the table was being sold and Josh was enjoying bidding on it...nodding his head in a heated battle every time the auctioneer would look at him...the back and forth was winding down as the other interested party shook their head no and it looked as though Josh was going to win the table...going once, going twice...

Then a new bidder randomly chimes in to take over the price war with Josh...we look up and it is DAD on the other side of the tent - he was just casually walking by and noticed that the price the table was getting ready to sell for was low and he raises his finger in the air letting the auctioneer know that he now wanted in on the bidding...Josh yells "DAD, WHAT ARE YOU DOING??!!??!!"

Everyone and everything stopped...LOL!

This is the piece that I bought :)

Here is the link to the pics from the weekend, including Mother's Day. The farm was so beautiful so I took Aliyah away from the confusing auction tent to get a few good shots of her...ENJOY!!

PICTURES HERE

"So much to say - so much to say"

2008-05-14T14:35:00.004-04:00

Geez! I feel like it has been FOREVER since I did a post and SO MUCH has happened over the last week...I'm afraid to forget details before I have a chance to share...

Anyway, just a brief stop in to say that the new job is going well...

The only thing I have to complain about is the fact that my chair has a mind of it's own...

The darn thing lowers itself while I am sitting in it...very frustrating!

I first noticed it yesterday & was convinced that someone was sabotaging my chair every time I got up...so today I decided to focus on paying attention to when & how the lowering was happening...

I don't know what planet I was on to not figure this out for about 48 hours, but it is now VERY CLEAR to me that it happens when I am in the chair...my knees go from being at a 90 degree angle to a 60 degree angle...while typing on my keyboard I feel like I am four years old again trying to reach what is on the kitchen countertop!!! Ahh...memories or trying to reach the brownies! haha!

If any of you are wondering about how I could not notice this when it happens as I sit in the chair - I just want to point out that it is a VERY SLOW process...I start out at regular height and about an hour later I'm practically sitting on the floor!

FUN STUFF!!!

Another pair...who's counting!?!?!?

2008-05-08T10:19:00.005-04:00

I have a confession to make...

I REALLY think I have a problem with buying new shoes...usually when seasons roll around - I pick up *maybe* a couple new pairs of feet cover, but most of my buying goes towards new clothes...

Well, for some odd reason that trend has changed DRASTICALLY in the last few months! We are talking upwards of ten pairs people...really? What am I thinking? When and where am I going to wear all of these???

I think the celeb blogs coupled with my easy access to the Internet during the day are going to lead to the final death of my wallet! I saw Jessica Simpson wearing these about a month ago on a celeb blog and of course I loved them and had to find a similar pair...

I was so excited b/c unlike the overalls - I did find something REALLY close on Ninewest.com - it seemed like it was kismet as it took me no time to find them & they were affordable!!!

At the time the kicks were not available for order until 05/06, which was fine because I could wait & I get paid on the 5th!

Well, you know that I didn't waste much time this week; I placed the order yesterday and GO FIGURE - the shoes are now BACK ORDERED until 06/19 or 07/03...

Of course the minor detail of the ship date doesn't show up until your order is processed...SO NOT FAIR!

Maybe I'll get the kicks in time to wear them for Halloween!!! Whatever :)

I'm cutting myself off too...this has gotten out of control!

"In the middle of the pouring rain..."

2008-05-07T14:04:00.003-04:00

The title of this post is the continuing line from the previous post & let me tell you that is just what happened! The minute the plan landed in Memphis the heavens opened up and released all of their fury :) There were no in-flight delays, but we all got to sit on the runway for 1.5 hours because the ramp was closed...my aunt and uncle actually SAW A TORNADO on their drive to Memphis from Texarkana!!!

I could probably go on and on about the weekend and all that we did, but I'm just going to tell about the BEST PART!!!

I got to see Aretha Franklin live and she was amazing! When her show started I was down at another stage watching a favorite of mine (O.A.R.) and while I was enjoying them a lot - it suddenly hit me - that I may not get the chance to see Aretha again...so I was off!

She is from Memphis, but had not been back to the city to perform since the death of Martin Luther King Jr. - it had been 40 years! They gave her a key to the city during her performance, which was REALLY cool. A.F. brought one of the TEMPTATIONS with her and when she took a break he sang "My Girl" - I felt like I was at the best reception with the best wedding singers ever!!!

Memphis is a great city with loads and loads of history and culture...I highly recommend the trip & for any of you Elvis buffs - Graceland is right around the corner!!!

"Touched down in the land of the Delta Blues"

2008-05-01T16:08:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow is the day *finally* that I'll be headed to Memphis (with a DIRECT flight this time - TG!) and I can hardly wait!

Nothing like leaving to go out of town to put you in overdrive for getting stuff done! I kind of procrastinated on getting my state inspection in April - due in part to my cracked windshield, BUT the people are supposed to be at my house today replacing it (thx mom for the pick-up service and the car "rental") so I can swing by the service station ~bright and early~ at 8am tomorrow to get my fancy new 05/09 sticker...knowing in the back of my head that my plates are not legal...I don't really want to risk getting pulled over on the way to the airport!!! They'd have a field day writing me out tickets! :)

ANYWAY: I'm stoked that my aunt has already been a few times to Memphis and knows all of the good places to hit for food, shopping, etc.

Everyone keeps RAVING to me about the BBQ RIBS...and I'm sure they are great, BUT I just can't do it captain! I have not eaten that animal since about 8th grade, so I think I'll be sticking to SHRIMP and CHICKEN!

Have a wonderful weekend *ENJOY THE BLOOM* and I'll catch back up with everyone next Tuesday when I'm back in my cubicle where this magic happens (well, for four more days anyway!).

Good luck with the 10K ladies!!!!! I'm rooting for you!!!!!

MMM-MMM-Good! California Tortilla

2008-04-30T15:36:00.006-04:00

What the WINNY needs next is a California Tortilla...even Charlestown, WV has one!

This is a great lunch spot and has been known to be one of my favorites!

There is one in Manassas, several in and around Ashburn, Fairfax, Leesburg, etc...(all VA locations)

My favorite thing to order is the Kids Quesadilla, which is a *STEAL* - the website says for 10 years old and under, but I've never been told NO and I'm pretty sure I look older than 10!

All kids' meals include a kids drink, chips and queso and a the best part - a small brownie! HOLLA!!!

Who cares if your co-workers make fun of you because you have what seems to resemble a toddlers sippy cup with fish and dinosaurs on it!

I can eat there for less than $6 ($5.77 to be exact) - you can't hardly buy a lean cuisine for that much anymore!

Check it out sometime!

New FaVoRiTe Album

2008-04-30T14:18:00.004-04:00

Some time ago I recommended JOSH KELLY to you all...

Well, I have recently *discovered* that my new favorite COUNTRY group includes his brother!

Lady Antebellum is *awh-some* and if you like more modern country; I highly recommend checking them out - their style is a great mix :)

Their first single is "Love Don't Live Here" (click the link to check out the video)

My most favorite tracks are:

1) Love Don't Live Here

4) Long Gone

5) I Run To You

I bought the album about a week ago at Targt and at the time is was only $6.98 - SCORE! I had a hunch all of the tracks would be in ENGLISH this time - hahaha!

Let me know what ya'll think!!!

DOUBLE BONUS!!!

2008-04-29T16:19:00.006-04:00

So I didn't mean to hold out on unlocking the secret of the "perk", but *LUCKY* me got to drive to Bethesda this morning to visit a customer...I have to be honest and say that with the resignation yesterday - I had kind of hoped to get out of the trip today, but it didn't happen!

The BIG news is that I will now be working at the same company as my best friend *YAYAYAY*, which is something that we are BOTH super geeked out about!

We met because she was hired to fill the position I left, about three years ago, and we clicked from day one! From that time, we have often daydreamed about how much fun it would be to work together again - and WAALAHH!

We will not be working directly together, which is FINE, but to be in the same building and be able to take breaks, go to lunch, shopping, golfing, etc - will be awesome! I mean, as much as we email and call one another during the day as it is, we might as well work together, but the 30 miles in between us has been the dagger :)

SIDE NOTE: My going away luncheon is next Tuesday and my boss sent out a huge meeting invite to a bunch of people in the office and put the location down as "TBD - Hooter's?" - One word comes to mind and that is *WHAT?*

Bittersweet Excitement!

2008-04-28T11:51:00.009-04:00

I have kept very hush-hush about what was a possible change for me for the last month or so, simply because I don't know everyone that is reading, but today is the day to share!

I received a wonderful job offer (with one perk that no other company on the planet would be able to offer) late this past Friday afternoon and after reviewing over the weekend, I have decided to accept.

I am *very excited* and feel super blessed to have this opportunity to sort of change what my career path has been to date, but of course with that comes the bittersweet realization of leaving behind so many wonderful co-workers and friends - really good friends that would make working anywhere enjoyable.

I told my boss and one of my dearest work friends this morning and just got back from lunch and sharing the news with others...I was so NERVOUS that I was shaking...so I finally just dropped the bomb and was then able to relax and enjoy my lunch!

My last day with my current employer is 05.09.2008 and I embark on my new journey the following Monday...I'll be sure to keep everyone posted!!!

Thanks mom and dad for all of the support and always checking in about the new job opp!

TGIF! Randomness...

2008-04-25T11:29:00.006-04:00

Yesterday around 5:45pm I got a very exciting call from the realtor that someone wanted to show the house - YAY!

It was briefly interrupted by the fact that the showing agent was sitting in my driveway with her client @ that very moment i.e. no notice...of course all of the messy parts of the house and the fact that the grass is almost a foot tall caused me to freak out a little, but I convinced myself that it wasn't that bad & if it was, they should understand with the lack of heads-up provided!

My realtor called back this morning to basically say that there will be no buying at this moment (SIGH), which is sad, but hopefully there will be more to come!

Oh & in case you are interested - the reasons for not buying are:

1) Wanting more privacy! What? Are you serious? Give me something better than that! Ok, there is a house sort of across the street, but I feel like I live in the middle of nowhere!

2) The house is too nice! Again - WHAT?? You have got to be kidding me! Apparently the interested party has five dogs and feared that the dogs would destroy the house in two weeks. WHATEVER!

-------------------------

I absolutely love these & I want a pair NOW!!! (I saw this pic on one of my celeb blogs earlier this week)...I have literally scoured the Internet this week SEARCHING *unsuccessfully I might add* for a pair of short overalls AND I even went to every store I could think of in Manassas that could potentially carry them...this town is certainly not a shopping Mecca, but I thought I might find something...

I used to rock the overalls ALL THE TIME and due to fashion evolution, I discarded of all my pairs and said I'd wait until the trend returned...

My only luck was finding brands that want you to pay over $200 for less fabric than goes into a towel - again - whatever!

I'm on the case though & I don't give up easily! It's going to happen for me...I just know it!

TGIF!!!

Encounters of the NIGHT!

2008-04-24T13:15:00.008-04:00

I stopped by to pick up Bailee (a daily trend) a little later last night (after dark) and headed home (a short drive)...Bailee ALWAYS goes directly to the front door when we get home (the whole routine thing) to go potty or just to be nosey about what is going on outside and bark at nothing (his favorite past time)...

Last evening was incredibly beautiful so I decided to sit out there with him & soak up the break from the rain...

The front of my house has a covered patio of sorts and I was minding my own business on the top step when I saw something that looked like a bird swoop down in the yard...

I thought - well, it is sort of random to see a bird fly that low this late, but whatever...

Then the *bird* swooped back down a second time & a little closer to the patio, the front light, and ME...

I thought - well, that does not look like a *bird*, but more like a *BAT* BUUUTTTTT whatever, I'm sure it won't bother me...

Then before I could hardly process the previous thought, the *BAT* swooped around AGAIN, for the third time, and came under the patio, past my head, and then back out grazing the top of my hair...

Needless to say, I completely freaked out! I jumped up and ran down the steps, down the sidewalk, waving my arms erratically in the air - after I somewhat regained composure, I turned around & saw that the coast was clear and darted for the front door...panicked that the BAT would circle back and follow me in, I left Bailee outside...

Being that I grew up in the sticks, and have had this sort of experience at my parents in years passed, I guess I should have known better i.e. known that they WILL COME CLOSER THAN PREFERRED!

Anyway, I left Bailee outside for a few to fend for himself (barking incessantly the entire time), and then decided to turn off all the lights before letting him in the house...he was not happy with me as I'm pretty sure I spooked him with my outburst in the front yard, but I was not giving that bat another chance...the fourth time may have caused cardiac arrest :)

I can't imagine posting a picture with this post b/c the darn things are SO ugly and it freaks me out at this point to see one!

The best things in life are free...

2008-04-23T11:04:00.005-04:00

I've been feeling a little less than FIT lately (quite blah actually) and vowed to get back on track with working out this week. I struggle with getting up in the morning to exercise - I barely make it to work on time as it is, so I usually have to do it once I get home, which I also struggle with IF I don't jump on it right away...

Monday night I stuck to my plan and I was a successful with a nice run on the treadmill...planned to continue the trend on Tuesday...

Last night I got to mom and dads to pick up Bailee and was chatting with dad and he asked me to stay for dinner. I told him that I would, but I needed to get home to work-out. He responded by telling me that they were having salads - I assume to insinuate that it would be a healthy dinner...we chatted for a bit and he asked me again to stay for dinner...again I said no.

Directly after, mom came in from her walk, and dad proceeded to tell her that he asked me to stay and eat with them, but I told him I'd RATHER go home and work-out! I was like - DAD, I DID NOT SAY IT LIKE THAT (ornery fella)! He knew exactly what he was doing...putting a little guilt trip on me...but I figured after being asked a few times & then thrown under the bus with mom - I should stay for salad :)

It was a decision that I couldn't have been happier with :)

Mom's cholesterol is a little high and she had a doctor's appointment last week and came home to tell dad that the doctor "gave her three months." Dad was like - uh - 3 months? I thought it was just a check-up! 3 months for what? She had forgotten to end the statement with "to get my cholesterol down before I go on medication" :) (mom was also told to EAT MORE VEGGIES - hence the super salad!)

The SALAD...OMG, the salad was flippin HUGE! I seriously had to pause during eating *several times* because my jaws ached from chewing! I told them I got a work-out from eating...it was almost exhausting!

DAD'S FUNNY STORY: My dad has a customer who is 71 years old AND the 71 year old man is dating a 38 year old woman...Dad asked him how it was going, and I guess felt comfortable enough to "GO THERE" because he asked his customer about intimacy!!! Something I was curious about when he was telling me the story, something we would all want to know, something most people would not ask! So when dad asked his customer about IT - the 71 yr old man responded by saying "We'll hopefully SHE can keep up!"

Now, that'll put you in your place! Hahaha! I guess it's never too late!!!

Tonight it is BACK to running & then dinner :)

Open mouth insert foot...

2008-04-22T15:38:00.007-04:00

This is a day of posts...

Something *FUNNY?* just happened & I seem to have a knack for this:

I'm standing outside with co-workers...and a guy on the OTHER sales team says to my team member and I:

"So are you all a part of this battle with manufacturing about order changes..."

We say no, not really, but we have been in the past (blah, blah, blah) & walk back inside.

In the lobby we run into two additional people from the OTHER team and I say:

"So I hear you all are making manufacturing mad" and I tell them "to get there stuff straight"

Then walking back to my office, we pass the large conference room (a VERY SHORT distance from the lobby...); the conference room door is wide open, and sitting inside are the powers that be for our manufacturing division...The VP, the director, etc...

I think my eyeballs about popped out of my head when I saw them all looking at me...

When we are safely back to my office, my co-worker said to me - "how did you manage to walk back here with your foot inserted in your mouth up to your knee!!??!!??"

I am SUPER thankful right now that I didn't say any more than I did!

Barrel Oak Winery

2008-04-22T10:45:00.010-04:00

A picture from BOW's site

I am so, so, so excited about a new winery opening in Delaplane, Va.

I have been driving past the new construction for months now that is located right by I-66 (west) at the Delaplane/Paris exit...at times my family has been in the car with me and we all racked our brains at what the building was going to be; is it a house? a barn? what is going on? Whatever it is - it is huge!

Anyway, on Saturday when driving to Gainesville for lunch, I noticed a huge banner spanning the top of the building that indicated the website for Barrel Oak Winery. Feeling like I had unlocked a six month old secret, I called mom (as soon as I got service) and she told me that she noticed it the previous Monday...WHAT?

I drive this route to work daily, so it is a little surprising that I would not notice the change for a week, but stranger things have happened! I was a little disappointed that mom had known about it and I was just catching on!

Barrel Oak Winery opens on Memorial Day Weekend 2008 and *I WANT TO BE THERE*, but I have a feeling I'll be out of town...I will definitely be checking it out though...the owners love & welcome dogs, so I think Bailee will have to tag along!

Somewhat is a side note: I so love where I grew up and how incredibly beautiful the valley is ~ I grow to admire the area more and more with each passing year. Sometimes I am amazed by the fact that within 40 minutes of leaving the city, I can be tucked away in such a peaceful and inspiring place that is simply picturesque.

The view while driving Rt. 17 between I-66 and Paris mountain is breathtaking and I truly appreciate the steps that have been taken to preserve its beauty. I think this is the perfect location for a new Virginia winery and I can't wait to visit...

Hopefully my local readers will be able to make it by BOW too! :)

LL McKee

2008-04-21T15:53:00.001-04:00

The name of the shop is LL McKee and I saw Mandy...it is located in the older part of Creekside :)

Not sure who asked, but I hope this helps!

The proof is in the pudding!

2008-04-21T12:12:00.004-04:00

I had my hair appointment early Saturday with the new girl @ the new shop in Winchester...

I did start to get a little concerned when it came time for the actual cut and the new girl kept pulling my hair up on one side of my head (about four times in a row with no cutting) & she had a look of confusion...like she didn't know what to do...

I was like, GRREAT...AND here we go again...

Then I paused and reminded myself that my friend who goes to her always looks awesome, so it has to be ok...the new girl is about to get married...the shop is incredibly busy...she probably has a million things running through her head & must be losing concentration :)

Finally she says to me "um, your hair on one side..." I cut her off and say "I KNOW!!!" Then she tells me "it's longer on one side...it's a lot longer on one side then the other."

This was the confirmation that I needed ~ I *KNEW* my hair was jacked up! I told her that was *EXACTLY* why I was there to see her :) Needless to say, the length had to be chopped again to even everything out, but I am so relieved to have it straight again...now I can really let it grow out a little for summer!

On top of the wonderful experience it was so much cheaper!

Thanks KKH for the recommendation!

A Little Jerry McGuire Moment

2008-04-18T13:18:00.006-04:00

Hands down, one of my favorite movies is Jerry McGuire - I often times forget about this flick when I am prompted to recite back my top however many blockbusters, but it really is one that I can watch again and again...

Sometimes at work I say to everyone in my office "Who's coming with me??" :)

Anyway, on the way back from lunch today, while looking around as driving and seeing how much EVERYONE in NOVA is soaking up the day...windows down, motorcycles everywhere...it is like we just came back to life today...I had a *moment*!

I was constantly scanning the XM channels and finally opted to hit my cd player, which I had forgotten that I was listening to Tom Petty on the beautiful drive home last night - I'm sure you can see where this is going - so I changed the song to "Free Falling" and after listening for a few moments, I broke out into song (just be thankful you weren't there...it is SO far from a soothing sound!).

I immediately burst into laughter thinking about how I felt like Tom Cruise! If there was ever a parody of the whole scene...it was today in my car!

It's funny how times like that make you super thankful for everything...

PS - A HAIR UPDATE!

Last night after I went running (a brief two miles - so I don't know if it really counts) I walked past the mirror in my bathroom and a large glisten caught my eye...I was like - now where did that highlight come from??? After inspecting a little closer, it was not a highlight, but it was gray hair & a lot of it all in the same place! I know I have them, but had never really pulled my hair back in such a way as to expose the whole clan of them!

The good news is that I have an appointment tomorrow with a NEW lady in the Winny that came recommended by friends...I'm a little nervous to embark on this journey again; however, I had NO TROUBLE cancelling my appointment with the last stylist I was seeing & I've got to get this mop taken care of stat!

Here are all my wishes for a WONDERFUL weekend to all!!! TGIF!!! Catch ya'll next week unless something crazy happens this afternoon that I want to share & it isn't looking to be that kind of day!!!

"We are Virginia Tech. We will prevail."

2008-04-16T10:11:00.005-04:00

"We are Virginia Tech.

We are sad today, and we will be sad for quite a while. We are not moving on, we are embracing our mourning.

We are Virginia Tech.

We are strong enough to stand tall tearlessly, we are brave enough to bend to cry, and we are sad enough to know that we must laugh again.

We are Virginia Tech.

We do not understand this tragedy. We know we did nothing to deserve it, but neither does a child in Africa dying of AIDS, neither do the invisible children walking the night away to avoid being captured by the rogue army, neither does the baby elephant watching his community being devastated for ivory, neither does the Mexican child looking for fresh water, neither does the Appalachian infant killed in the middle of the night in his crib in the home his father built with his own hands being run over by a boulder because the land was destabilized. No one deserves a tragedy.

We are Virginia Tech.

The Hokie Nation embraces our own and reaches out with open heart and hands to those who offer their hearts and minds. We are strong, and brave, and innocent, and unafraid. We are better than we think and not quite what we want to be. We are alive to the imaginations and the possibilities. We will continue to invent the future through our blood and tears and through all our sadness.

We are the Hokies.

We will prevail.

We are Virginia Tech."

~Nikki Giovanni's Convocation address, Delivered April 17, 2007

Although a lot of the content of the above is in relation to the fresh wound, I cherish this speech because of the strong words "we will prevail." I believe that our entire nation has. I am so incredibly proud to be a Hokie! It is an honor to be a part of such a wonderful community of people before and after the events of 04.16.2007...those directly affected by that day will have a special place in my heart for all time.

Thank you to all for the love and support shown to my beloved Virginia Tech today and always.

The Truman Show...

2008-04-15T12:00:00.006-04:00

Question to my fellow bloggers...

Does it catch you off guard when someone remarks to you about one of your posts? More so when they don't start the conversation, with "I was reading your blog and..." But when they just start talking to you and you are like -UM, how do you know that??? You get to look at them sort of dumbfounded while the 1+1=2 adds up in your head...

Isn't it odd not knowing everyone that checks your blog on a regular or semi-regular basis? All you do is watch the numbers go up! :) BUT, the element of the unknown is also intriguing...

On Sunday someone made a comment to me like"Oh, is that your new camera that you were excited about?" And I had to stop and think if I had told them about it in passing...then I realized - wait - they probably read my post!!!

Or if I stop to tell mom a story and she says "I know, I read about it..." Then I don't know what to share and what not to share...did she read today's and not yesterdays post? Do I start telling her anyway and let her stop me if she knows?

If you have a blog, and you read others blogs - then it is like this little community of people that you know are checking in. Some of them you know & some you have never met...yet you feel like you know them very well from reading their blogs, which is also weird and *FUN*! Of course you can tell a few others that stop in by occasional anonymous comments...

Maybe I'm just weird, but it kind of makes me feel like I'm on a TV show that I can't watch :) Probably should have thought about this before December 2007! It isn't that I mind...it is just an odd realization that you have put your life on *blast* to the world; however, big or small that world may be!

DON'T STOP READING ~ this is just food for thought!!! I'm curious if this is just me...

Weekend Pics

2008-04-15T09:57:00.009-04:00

For the rest of the pics:

Click HERE!

A little bit of this and that

2008-04-14T10:27:00.004-04:00

Wowzers what a jam packed weekend!

Friday night I met the fam for dinner in Front Royal b/c is was a PEANUT WEEKEND - yay! When I got to Josh's house, gram and Aliyah were in hot pursuit of getting top scores on some Wii game...it was pretty funny to hear Aliyah tell mom how to use the Wii remote :)

During dinner it started to POUR the rain *buckets* were being released from the heavens - literally...we talked Josh into running to get the car for us girls (mom, Brittany, Aliyah, and I)...at first mom handed Josh the wrong keys to the car, but luckily they figured that one out before he got on his way...then he pulled up and Brittany ran out with Aliyah on her hip. When they got to the car, the doors were locked & Josh being unfamiliar with mom's vehicle, could not figure out how to unlock the doors...clearly, it was a stressful moment...mom and I stood under the awning watching this all go down...Aliyah and Brittany are yelling for him to open the doors as they were getting drenched and we heard Josh from about 30 feet away & from inside the car yell "I DON'T KNOW HOW!!!" He finally decided to reach to the back seat to open the door and practically knocked himself out on the ceiling console...after we saw B&A get in safely - mom and I ran to the car (me with my shoes in my purse and jeans rolled up to my knees)...once we were all tucked inside I saw the birds circling above Josh's head as he tried to regain composure with eyes crossed and a look of bewilderment!

Saturday I worked at the house all day with the company of my BFF to get things ready for Sunday's open house. She and I took a break in the late afternoon to walk to dads pond and say hi to everyone fishing...I introduced her to the family and explained the connections...my cousin Randall was there with his son Corey and I proceed to tell my BFF that Randall was the son of my dads older daughter...you could hear crickets...then all of a sudden dad says "yeah right!!!" My dad is the youngest of four and Randall is the son of his OLDEST SISTER Judy :) What can I say? The yard work, etc had me so tired that I couldn't think straight!

Sunday the whole family got together at my cousin's house for a fish fry, which was awesome as usual! Aliyah and I had a boxing match - so much fun! She watches WWF with her other grandfather and I didn't really realize what I was getting myself into. She loved knocking me out and I taught her to say "KO" every time I fell to the floor...then we'd get up and again and she'd say "bring it on" or "show me what you got" - it was HYSTERICAL! I have to be careful about laughing at her b/c she tends to be a little sensitive about it :) Everything was going well, until all of a sudden she decided to start using her feet! The swift kick I got to the head, was not what I was expecting when laying on the floor in safe mode - at all! My head wasn't feeling the best yesterday anyway, so after I told her "no feet! no feet!" I laid there for a while until I decided to get up for more of the 4 year-olds whoopin! I then taught her how to put her boxing gloves up in the air and jump up and down Rocky style, which was priceless to say the least! I sang "Aliyah is the champion" to the tune of Queen's "We are the Champions." She'd get a big grin on her face that went from ear to ear...I mean, the little girl likes to WIN & I have to say she gets her competitive nature honestly :)

I have a few pics, I tired to not take as many this weekend simply because I can get out of control with them, but I'll try to post in the next couple days!

I hope ya'll had a fantastic weekend and enjoyed the beautiful weather on Saturday!!!

A favorite place with my favorite people

2008-04-11T09:49:00.006-04:00

After the debacle that was Wednesday :) I asked mom and dad to go to dinner with me last night as a thank you. We went to one of my very favorite restaurants in Upperville called Hunters Head Tavern...if you have not been there - you must try it sometime! The food and the ambiance are wonderful!

We had the best time...I laughed hysterically through most of dinner...once I get started laughing, it is hard for me to remove myself from the giggly mood.

It started with ordering...Dad got a steak and when they asked how he wanted it cooked he said "medium rare." I remember thinking at the time - man, he NEVER orders his steak that way, but whatever - go for it! WELL, needless to say, when they brought out our meals, he looked down at his plate in shock, his eyeballs got real big and he stared at it like they brought him out a football instead of a steak! Very concerned about the steaks color; he and mom cautiously determine whether he should send it back...he asks "what did I order?" and I told him "medium rare..." This is when the laughter started as I told him how shocked I was because he ALWAYS gets his cow medium well...the steak went back to the kitchen :)

Dad proceeds to tell his story of his trip to the dentist earlier that day, which I can not describe here, all I can say is that I was laughing until I had tears running down my cheeks and was trying to catch my breath...you'd have to know dad and how animated he is when telling stories...maybe that is where I get it from...hmmmm...I wonder??? JK!

Dad also takes care of my grandmother, who has Alzheimer's...his dedication to her is amazing and inspiring - he stops by to see her just about every day and makes sure that he is there to help her eat...I know it really isn't funny, but the stories that come out of that cafeteria are incredible!

Last night he told us of how he was there helping Mamaw eat dinner and she needed a Kleenex...she tried to wipe her nose on the tablecloth and he stopped her...she tried to wipe her nose on her pant legs (I'd like to have seen that one)...he gave her a tissue and she used it and tossed it to the floor...her nose continued to run...he watched her take her hand up to wipe and said he stopped to think "now what is she going to do with that?" and before he knew it she took her hand really quick and wiped it down the front of his shirt...

Dad and I grossed mom out by trying to decipher what the texture of the goat cheese on the salad reminded us of...I won't share the disgusting conclusion that we came to, but it is a good thing that mom was done eating at the time this all went down!!!

It was a bit reminiscent of the sceen in Mary Poppins where they visit Uncle Albert for a tea party and laugh so hard that everyone floats up to the ceiling! I'm sure the other people in the room were quite happy when my loud laughing left the area for good...I had the best time with them!!! Laughter, good food, and great company is the best medicine!

If my head wasn't connected to my neck...

2008-04-10T14:43:00.003-04:00

So funny thing happened yesterday, well - I think it is funny now...at 9am yesterday morning I was about to go into cardiac arrest! No joke!

As some of you know from reading the blog, I am in the midst of trying to sell my house in Clarke County in the middle of a wonderful selling market - haha! It's a whole lot of fun still living in the same house as...anyway!

I have been irritated with the realtor at different points in time, not for the house still being on the market, but just over a few things that have happened - I really know that she is giving it her all...

So she had written last week about doing two open houses...I looked at the email...thinking that the dates were pretty far in the future and waited a couple days to respond to her - finally saying go ahead (I tend to read things, make a gentle mental note, and then forget)

Well, sitting on the couch Tuesday night in my PJ's *exhausted* I thought to myself - when are the open houses? I'm sure they are next week! Again Wednesday morning I had the same conversation with myself as I ran out the door to an early appointment *I paused* and looked around at what a MESS ~ COMPLETE & utter MESS the house was and again convinced myself I had time...

Get to work around 9am on Wednesday i.e. yesterday and decided to check my hotmail and put my worries about the dates to rest...I was on the phone with my BFF and all of a sudden I start saying OMG, OMG, OMG...she is like what? what? what? I respond by saying OMG, the open house for agents is today!!!

The beds are not made, my room is a wreck, my suitcase is still on the floor, the dishes and mail are all over the kitchen counters, bathroom counter has my make-up - hair dryer - I mean, DISASTER...what am I going to do???

As horrible as I felt, I HAD NO CHOICE, so I called my mom...thank goodness she was home and answered the phone...I'm like "hey, what are you doing" trying to suppress my PANIC...she senses it 100% so I tell her...she says ok, I'll run over and do what I can...how much time do I have...I have to tell her that it starts at 11am and it is now after 9am - I hear a gasp from her...she hurries off the phone and over to do my dirty work!!!

I have been known to be a procrastinator and I tend to not worry so much about time and dates, but seriously!!! I can CLEARLY do without adding stress to my own life directly by being so absent minded...get it together woman!!!

Mom did a fantastic job and I don't know what I would have done without her help yesterday...I probably would have driven 45 minutes home to get done what I could have in an hour and then driven 45 back to work...

THANK YOU MOM!!! You were and are a LIFESAVER! I called mom when I left work and she said all is GOOD, but you probably aren't going to be able to find your stuff b/c I threw it wherever I could! :) My closet was a great indication of what she was talking about!

Also, half-way through the day (yesterday) I got a text about my plans for this Saturday that I made well over a month ago *and had completely forgotten about as well* There is another open house on Sunday...I still have so much to do at the house b/c this one is open to the public and not just agents...so now I think I have to cancel my plans on Saturday i.e. lunch with college girlfriends, A MASSAGE!!!, a night out and some good girl time!

I think I need to stop fighting REALITY and start keeping a calendar! You know those PDA's that I was B!TCH!ING about recently...yeah, I may be eating my words b/c I see one of those in my future! I may also need an assistant or focus medicine! :)

The Birth Of Venus - My Life As An Artist

2008-04-10T10:40:00.005-04:00

I am so excited!

One of my dear friends that now lives in London started a blog and just sent me the link - YAY!

SIDEBAR: You know I had to scrounge up some pics of us for this post...I am really starting to think I'm the picture monster - SERIOUSLY - anyway, as I'm sure you can tell - lots of these are OLD SCHOOL...when I start to feel like I'm getting OLDER, I just have to look back at pics & I'm reminded to be thankful that I have learned how to do my hair and make-up - hahaha!!!

I met Melissa in college during my senior year at Virginia Tech. One thing we had in common from the start is the Mel is originally from Winchester...small world! Long story short is that she and I instantly clicked and had a lot of fun together during that year; we had several classes together, ended up working on lots of group projects, and she introduced me to fashion *my bank account thanks her* and so do I!

I remember well the time that Mel came over to help me get ready to go out one night; she was stunned to find that I didn't own any black pants (which were the ONLY thing girls wore to get dressed up back in the day) or cute "going out" shoes. I can still hear her saying "Ame, these are the only shoes you have?"

We remained in touch after college and ended up becoming roommates for a year in Alexandria - our landlord was crazy, but we had fun living so close to DC!

Melissa is an incredible artist and I've always been amazed at her talent and I'm so happy and excited that she has decided to start a blog about her experience and the evolution of her craft!

I've added a link to it on my BLOG, but also wanted to direct you to her blog here :)

THE BIRTH OF VENUS - MY LIFE AS AN ARTIST

You find the best people in the smallest places!

2008-04-09T11:32:00.009-04:00

For all the pics from the trip click here!!

A view of Millwood Lake from the deck @ Dave & Shelia's Restaurant

The trip to Arkansas was awesome! I had a wonderful time visiting with my aunt Angie, her husband Mike, and Vincent (my cousin)...it was just so cool to actually go and see where they live and meet all of their friends/family there.

Mike and Angie

It is strange to me when people close to you move away and you feel like you no longer know what is going on with them; even though you talk, there is a curiosity about so many things...and your brain runs wild finding images to associate with what the town looks like, where they work, what their house looks like, who their new friends are, etc and it is entertaining to see either how close or how far off your created images actually are...now when Angie and I talk and share stories I'll know what is going on!

This guy was awesome!

Ashdown has a population of about 4,800 people - very small in every sense of the word!

On Friday night we got ready and headed over to the country club to meet up with all of their friends and rode in golf carts to the restaurant on the lake...we ordered great food - fried pickles - yummy! I met so many wonderful, good, genuine, down to earth, FUN people - who are surprisingly so happy to meet you & they instantly make you feel like you are home. I understand why Mike and Angie love it there...

Saturday was also a completely NEW experience for me as I have never been to a golf tournament - ever! I was not playing, but I drove the cart, cheered them on, and took pics all day...it was so much fun & about half-way through I got the itch to play - big time, but I stuck to my duties...I got a tad bit bored over the course of the *18 holes* and at times had outbursts...Bruce (Mike's friend) told Angie that they needed to get me some A.D.D. medicine, which I thought was hysterical!

On the golf course - the two teams we hung with in Saturday

Saturday night a big group of us went out in Texarkana to two different places; they wanted to make sure that I saw everything possible, which I totally appreciated! I also got to meet Angie's best friend Shawna from Ashdown, I had heard so much about her & she really is a special person :)

Sunday we lounged - finally! Angie, Vincent and I went to Texarkana (15 min drive) for lunch and shopping and then later that evening Angie drove me around the town of Ashdown...no substantial new building has occurred there since the late 70's at best with the exception of a bank, super Wal-mart, and the SONIC...I finally tried SONIC (three times at that)!

This is the courthouse where Angie works

The trip itself and my time there was so what I needed...it was a great visit and I can't wait to get back! We left one another with tears at the airport and the excitement of catching up again in Memphis...she is my aunt by nature, but one of my dearest friends by design :) Love you!!!

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Unique gift ideas...

The Bachelor - 2009

I know you so well!

"Please Mr. Postman"

Something old ~ Something new

"Do not go gentle into that good night...

I hope you ALL have a WONDERFUL time :)

Excuse me, is this yoga or bootcamp?

My Election Day

MIA

Two Guys, a Truck, and their TIP...

"Why does everyone have to move?"

Getting back into the "run" of things

Um - I'm sorry, but what did you say?

What a difference a day can make!

Feeling Blessed...

Trips to TARGET

Moving Sale

Not sure what my deal is

Thankful Thursday

Wordless Wednesday (HINT: Monday's Post)

You just had to go and bust my bubble...

Freedom To Be

Not really sure what my point is...

Stepping out of the comfort zone

Who remembers?

What do you do at work???

I have never laughed so much in one day...

43 ODD? Things about ME

More fav beach pics...

Some trip pics...Day 1 & 2

And they're off...

Blogging Blues

Josh's Birthday Dinner Pictures

Birthday Pics :)

Happy Birthday Mom!

Wednesday Randomness

The single life...

STUCK IN MY HEAD

Can we talk about this please?

Go shorty - it's UR birFday...

How sorry are you?

A can of whoop ^&*

"How wonderful life is"

I despise grocery shopping!

Do you eat bacon?

Um??? Did I do that?

Into The Wild

The long way home

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Kings Dominion

The Dating Game

Afraid of the dark?

HOLLA-DAY Weekend

*Memory Tag*

The “Friends” Movie Gets the Green Light

"I eat, therefore I run"

Must Watch

"HOPKINS" aka AH-mazing

I have been a very bad girl...

Good WEDNESDAY Stuff

Adventures in Babysitting - Our Trip to the Zoo

Mondee Updates

The struggle...

Father's Day

Mosaic Puzzle

The Family Circus

Imaginative Excuses for Coming in Late

The year was 1954...

A post for the women...

The Cleaning Olympics...

A special visitor...

Victory is sweet!

What did you say?

Blood is thicker than water...

A little healthy competition is not always wanted

"So much to say - so much to say"

Another pair...who's counting!?!?!?

"In the middle of the pouring rain..."

Memory Tag