Pictures

Halloween Night - 2009. Me and Dawn at a party at her friend's house.

Trying to save a patient (the mask was CREEPY!!!). And yes, he was Michael Jackson, DOA.......

Pumpkins that were carved for the Higginbotham party last weekend (Oct. 24). Mine is the second from the left. :).

Self portrait -- me before the Higginbotham party (a wine stain made it a little hard to wear the mother nature costume last night, hence the change!)

Not a Halloween picture, but it is a cute one of me and Natalie's baby, Ally. I look a mess because I had literally just come in from the rain.

No kittens

I wasn't able to get the kittens today because the vet tech is concerned about their eating and wanted to take them home to watch them. I totally understand but was a little sad I didn't get to bring the darlings home. Oh well. I know Simon is not upset about it :).

Just got back from registering for the White Rock 5-Relay Run in Dec. I will be running on a team called "Jo's Team" -- in memory of several people at the church who have been lost to cancer. (South MacArthur Church of Christ -- where I went to church growing up.). I am really looking forward to it! It is 7 weeks away, so I will be starting to hit the training hard. Now, it is only 5 miles, but for a gal who has only run 2 5ks, it will be a challenge to get to 5 miles (with a good time!). I will post training updates as I go along. That will also be helpful in keeping me accountable. (And I HAVE to run it. They are counting on me -- it is a 5 person team, not just my lone self. That will definitely keep me accountable!)

That is about all. I am now watching "A Haunting in Connecticut". To get the full effect, I am guessing I need to log off the computer!

Tuesday!

I only got 5 hours of sleep last night. And the 5 hours was only because I over slept and woke up at 7!. Oops....... I went to visit with friends, then got home and finished watching "Drag Me to Hell". Awful movie. I don't know why I even finished it. Seriously, it was so predictable and badly acted. Not my favorite "scary movie". I put scary in quotes because it was not. Don't waste your time. "A Haunting in Connecticut" is on it's way to me now (it's Halloween time. I love scary movies at Halloween!). "The Unborn" was actually pretty good. It was predictable at times too, however it kept up the creep factor and the ending actually got me. I also got done with "Transformers 2". Not a scary movie but I really wanted to see it! While it was disappointing story and acting wise (really, not a shocker....), I loved the special effects. It was way too long, but for what it was, it was okay.

So, I just got an email from the shelter volunteer lady that Brooke has a URI :(. Not good. Poor baby. They have her on antibiotics and I plan to visit her soon to give some TLC. Actually, I am visiting REALLY soon because they have kittens! 3-6 week old babies that need a place to live for about 2 to 3 weeks. I loved having Jasper and Edward around and I think rotating kittens in will be okay. They already are eating solid food -- they just need a place to live so they can thrive and be less likely to get an illness. And I figured since I wasn't actually involved in their birth, I have less emotional involvement with them. I will play, socialize and then send them to their forever homes. I know that is why I was so attached to Jasper and Edward -- I was there from the very, very beginning!

In other news, I have agreed to do the Dallas White Rock Marathon - 5 person Relay. I have a 5 mile stretch so I will be training for that. It is gorgeous outside today so I am thinking it will be a run outside day. (It was "run inside day" yesterday). Funny how I always said that the only way you'd get me to run was to chase me with a machete...... :).

Okay, time to finish up work! Everyone have a great Tuesday.

Weekend Wrap-up

I guess you can't really wrap-up the weekend when it isn't officially over, but I am going to do so anyway. The Halloween party last night was a blast. I will have to download pictures and post them. The Higginbotham party is always a blast and last night was no exception. I ate way too much and need to go for a long run to make up for it. I will do that in a few hours.

I took Brooke back to the shelter today. It was sad but it was the right thing to do. I needed to get back to a 2 cat household. She has a cold too so they can look after it and take care of it. I will be going back on weekends to visit her - I am sure she will be okay. I did find out that Jasper and Edward got adopted so yay them! I don't have any info on the families that took them but I know that they will be in good hands.

I am going to watch a scary movie and then go for a run before I get ready for bed. My asthma has been acting up this past week so working out has been hard. I went to the doctor on Friday and now have to take prednisone to get my system cleared back up. It's a necessary evil. I am back on the inhalers and I am feeling much better!

Oh and one of the biggest surprises this weekend was A&M beating Tech!!!! And it was a nice little whooping. I wasn't expecting it and I was very happy. Giddy, actually :). I guess the team was mad enough about the butt whiping last weekend.

Happy Sunday!

Halloween party tonight

I am so excited. Seriously, I love Halloween. This is the annual Higginbotham Halloween party -- which used to be at Taylor's brother's house. Since the brother and family moved to Southlake, the party is now at Taylor's house. I finally found the costume and it is super cute! I love it - I am going as Mother Nature. I wasn't inspired for anything until Wednesday. Last night, a group went to Taylor's house to carve pumpkins. I haven't carved pumpkins in forever! It was a lot of fun. I need to find a picture of it and post it. It was a messy, messy time, but I had a blast. :). It was totally a trace job but I think it turned out well. And no, I didn't cut any limbs off....... And next week, I will have to find someplace to go so I can wear the costume again!

Okay, time to run. Simon's turn for the vet. It is just for shots -- he is perfectly fine. Actually, he is back to running around the house like he is on the nip. Opening cabinets and screaming like a banchee......(yes, he opens my kitchen cabinets)

Happy Saturday!!!

HI!

Poking head in, waves!!!

This weekend was awesome. I ran the Susan G. Koman Race for the Cure Saturday morning. Mom, Jen and her hubby Dave were there too. It was fantastic and I loved it -- it was crazy though. Thousands of people. The energy was great and I did better than my first 5K -- official time was 41:31. That is the goal though -- to do better than the race before. I am trying to find my next race. I think the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day. I am not sure yet. That will be another crazy, crazy time. I am thinking a smaller race would do me some good too!

Saturday night I had dinner at Stephen Pyles in Downtown Dallas with some friends of mine. That place was very nice and dinner was great (okay, wasn't too keen on the clams, but everything else rocked my world.) It was a nice evening out and something I don't do too often. :)

Okay, I guess it's time to get back to work. Brooke was spayed last week, still kind of a brat but she just spends time on her own in my room or her room. There isn't as much chasing the other two around the house. I guess I need to give her back to the shelter soon so she can be put up for adoption. I need to check on Jasper and Edward and see if anybody has inquired about adopting them. I didn't have a chance to run to the PetsMart to see them this past weekend. :(. Sierra has a cold (or allergies. Apparently they are bad for animals these days too). Poor thing is sneezing. But she is eating normally and all together okay, so I really don't want to take her back to the vet.

Later all!

Monday... bleh

Yep, I like the word "bleh". Deal :).

The babies are now at PetsMart. Yes I did cry when I left them. But, I know they will have great new homes soon AND that the people I left them with love cats as much as I do. Volunteers go in and make sure they are fed and played with and truthfully, it might be good for Edward and Jasper to have exposure to more humans than they'd have at my place. When I left, two teen boys were taking care of them and fawning over them. They just were so scared when I left. I will stop by this week to say hi and make sure they are okay.

Brooke seems to be doing okay. She is still a brat around Simon and Sierra. If she keeps hissing and chasing them, then I will have to recommend she only goes to a house without other pets. She is super sweet with me -- very cuddly. I will get her spaying done soon and hopefully that will chill her out more. I keep telling her she is a guest in the house but she really doesn't listen. Sigh...

Other than that, I am doing well. I have the Aids life walk coming up on the 11th. I am not sure I am ready for that one just yet. The Race for the Cure is coming up after that on Oct. 17th. This will be the week of running and getting my body back into the groove. With the dreary weather, I truthfully just want to veg and not workout. I need to quickly get over that!

Okay, time to find something for lunch. I am thinking a quick trip to Urban Market for the salad bar. For a dreary day, it has gone by rather quickly. Usually these days drag. But a good walk in the cool air will wake me up! Later!

So little time....

I went to take Edward and Jasper for their shots on Sunday and was informed they looked great (of course!) and were ready for adoption. Wow! I knew at 8 weeks they'd be ready, but I wasn't ready for the speed at which it got here! They have grown so much and it has been a joy to see their antics. They are funny little guys. And Brooke is such a good mommy. So, I have to take them on Saturday to the PetsMart at Inwood and Forest. They will have a little cage set up (the cage part makes me sad. They are used to their own room now!). I know it will be temporary. Some wonderful person/family will come and adopt them and give them their forever home. I am just enjoying the time I have left with them! Despite all the tears (RIP Bella) and frustration, I would do it again. It was a great experience :). Now what I am going to do with Brooke is up in the air. I will keep her until at least after her spaying. After that, I have no idea. There is no love lost between her and the permanent 2, however I really hate to drop her back to the shelter. We will see. Hey, she might even have a better chance of being seen and getting adopted at the shelter. I will talk to the lady on Saturday when I drop off the babies. At the very least, I make a weekly trip to the shelter to visit her.

Other than that, things are pretty status quo. Work is busy, which is good. It makes the week go quicker. I haven't really gone out much but that is okay. I am catching up on all my DVR stuff :). I have added a new show to my must see list -- "Flash Forward". I saw the premiere and was impressed. The premise is very interesting and I have high hopes. It is in the sci fi genre, which I usually don't get into, but I really do like it. I hope it lasts!

Update

Okay, I thought it had been longer since I posted last, but it was only Thursday! Here is what is going on now:

1) Britney rocked it Friday night! She looked great and it was a wonderful show. The person Dawn bought the tickets from won them from a local radio station. We initially thought we were on the 3rd floor, but we were promptly relocated to the 1st floor! We had great seats.

2) I have officially signed up for the "Race for the Cure". I am making a team with Jen and whoever else wants to join. That run is Oct 17.

3) I am also registered for the "Life Walk" on Oct 11. That benefits AIDS charities across the Dallas area.

4) The kittens are 7 weeks old yesterday! It is hard to believe how big they have gotten. They are also showing more personality. Very cute babies :).

5) Work is going okay. I have re-focused myself and am working on my re-cert credits for my PHR. That test was hard -- it would be stupid to let it lapse. My OSH 511 course last month actually counts some hours, which is great. That is 28 hours taken care of for now -- all under "Safety and Health".

6) I am tired. The weather is making me sleepy girl. I'd much rather go home and get in bed. However, I need to work out and then I will head to my bed. I've been slacking in the weight loss contest and I need to step it up.

Okay that is most everything in a nut shell. Everyone have a great Tuesday afternoon :).

Sun???

I am tired and have lost all track of what day it is -- seriously. I was out Tuesday for a seminar and Wednesday I was just off work. I really don't know what day it is supposed to feel like!! I want Friday to get here quickly so I can reset my body clock and get back on track.

My Aunt Gail and Cousin Ryn drove thru Dallas on a mass journey from Boston -- where Ryn was living -- back to Cali. She is making the move home. It was a lot of fun having her here. Yesterday was spent celebrating Mom's birthday (Happy Belated blog birthday wish :)). Has anyone ever been to the Twisted Root?? It is in Deep Ellum and very good! They have yummy hamburgers, great fried pickles and homemade root beer. Gail got some pics so once she posts them for all to see, I will take some and put them here. Yes, I had fried pickles. My food choices yesterday were awful and I am feeling it today! But I've been pretty good today and sucking down the water too. I'll fix the damage. But, Twisted Root was worth it. Dad took us on a tour of the DFW area and last night Ryn and I just chilled with her friend Steve. He just moved to Dallas and is a great guy. We have the same love of pop culture and like the same shows. We made Ryn watch "America's Top Model" last night. Well, actually he did since I was off getting our Thai food. I'll let him take the blame for that one :).

So the big news of the weeks is that I am seeing Britney Spears tomorrow night!!! I wanted to see her but didn't get tickets when they first came out. The way it came about was kind of funny. We drove past AA Center, I said "man, I wish I was going to the concert Friday night", we talked about Ms. Spears and then my friend Dawn texted me saying she had a chance to get Britney tickets..... Um, okay that was funny timing! So, yes, I jumped on the chance and plan to have a WONDERFUL time tomorrow night. So, I have to think of the next thing I want the universe to give me :).

Okay, I am going to wrap up here at work, get going home and get some rest. At least before I head out to have dinner with another friend. It is either feast or famine with the after work activities. I am not complaining though. I am having a great week and am very happy with the way today has turned out!

Success!

I ran my first 5K on Saturday and I did better than I thought I would do. Seriously, I was expecting 46-48 minutes...... my official time was 43:15! I was amazed. I think the energy of any group event propels me, so that may have had something to do with it. And the weather -- yes, even the rain - made it successful for me. It was cool and my body was very happy with that.

I ran with Jen and her hubby David (thanks to Jen for posting pics so I could pilfer them :)). They both did awesome! Jen beat her time from her previous 5K and David, well, he beat me :). Next time....... hehe. The next one we are planning is the Susan G. Koman in Oct, however I think I want to fit one more in before that time. I kind of have the bug.... Run On has so many posted that I am sure I can find something! Once we have established our team, I will let everyone know! It was yoga today though. My muscles were still aching this morning! I am not as sore as I thought I'd be, but yes, I do still feel it. (Sierra is now asleep on my yoga mat. That will teach me not to put it up quick enough...)

Other than the 5K, it's been a low key weekend. Friday night I went to visit my friend Natalie and see her new baby. Ally is 7 weeks old now and so adorable. I really didn't want to leave but I had to get up early Saturday morning. Although I got home at 10 and didn't fall asleep until 12:30ish. I made the mistake of turning on the tv and hit the History Channel. They had some very good documentaries about 9/11 and it was very hard to turn it off and relax.

Everyone have a great Sunday!

Kitten pics

I am trying not to go overboard, however seriously, the last batch of pics were just tooooooo cute......

Hiya..... :)

Trying to look innocent.

a couple of pictures

Proof Brooke will let me pet her without killing me..... :). She is starting to get more and more into playing with toys. She is a fun cat -- let me know if you know someone who wants to adopt an adult cat (in about 3 weeks or so)! And I am sure once she is finally spade, she will be even happier.

Okay, I am not sure how clear this will come out. I couldn't get the flash to work correctly. The boys are still on medicine to make sure any infection that Bella might have had is fought in them. It is sticky and messy and I think they are finally over it all. I still have some more to give them and so I am currently employing the "kitty burrito" method to make sure they don't wiggle too much.

I apparently watch too much "Hoarders" on A&E. I have spent the morning cleaning and purging stuff. I found out I hoard tank tops :). I have way too many. Simon tried to help clean the sock drawer and as you can possibly imagine, that didn't go well. He doesn't like organization. :) So the closet is clean, bedroom done and the kitten room is clean (that will always be a work in progress when it comes to purging and organizing.) It is time to go through the magazines, pull what I want to keep and get those puppies to the recycling bin! I am pretty sure this will take all weekend (the cleaning, not the purging of magazines!).

This weekend is just made for chilling, cleaning and possibly hanging out by the pool. I really wouldn't care if it rained all weekend though. Everyone have a great Saturday!

One Month Olds

Edward and Jasper are a month old today! Really hard to believe they came into the world 4 weeks ago. I took them to the shelter on Saturday to make sure they were healthy. Their temperature was low (a normal cat's temp is 101, they were around 97/98). Since they are still active and eating, I had medicine to take home to ward off any infection. Okay, I thought giving Sierra medicine was hard. These two will not open their mouth for anything and once they do, the liquid is soooo messy. I think i will try to get a picture of the aftermath tonight. I swear, they really are little kids. Messy eaters, all over the place, they don't listen to their mother. Edward is all about climbing -- climbing me that is! It is nice though -- he is not scared of humans (okay, well I probably don't count since I am the human who takes care of him and he is used to me) and he just loves me. I let him and Jasper climb as much as they want. Don't worry, I will be able to give them up when the time comes! I am starting them on the litter pan (a shoe box lid so they can get into it). It is all going well. I do miss Bella but I have my pictures to remember her by. By the way, if you know of someone looking to adopt a kitten (or cat -- Brooke is super sweet!), let me know. I can't just give the babies away since the shelter has adoption procedures, but I am sure they would love to have a family all lined up for these adorable little ones.

The weekend was pretty good. Very low key -- it seemed like I ate a lot but I also worked out so it didn't matter! I need to up my mileage for my competition -- I didn't do very well this week. I plan to get in some miles tonight. It is nice outside and I can jog without feeling completely overwhelmed with humidity.

Okay, Monday is almost over! Time to pack up and get ready to head home. Later!

Bye Bye Bella

I came home today and my baby Bella was not doing well. Now little Bella is walking on the Rainbow Bridge with Jen's Cleo. Rest in peace my sweet pea. She was still hanging on as I was driving to meet the shelter lady but passed on before I got there. I was with her when she took her last breath. I guess I can take comfort in that -- she didn't pass while I was at work. I can't really write much more but I came home from meeting the shelter lady and started to spoil the other two a little more. I think their future forever home will have a lot to live up to in their eyes. And I will spoil them more and more while I have them. Brooke seemed a little disconcerted but she seems fine now. I guess having two active 3 week old kittens who are now completely roaming the room keeps her occupied. I have started feeding them soft kitten food so that made me laugh when I really needed it.

Allergies are killing me!!!

I can't breath and it's annoying. I am back to Zyrtec D and it seems to be doing the trick. Before you go blaming my allergies on the fact that I have 6 cats, please keep in mind that I am allergic to EVERYTHING. Grass, dust, trees, mold...... doesn't matter. The cats make me happy so they are staying (well, you know what I mean. Brooke and the babies are on a temporary stop in the grand journey of their life). Edward is seriously a talker. I think he might talk more than Simon, if you can believe it! And he loves to run. He has the biggest paws and along with his 6 toes, he is just too cute trying to get around. He also loves to climb up my leg so I need to remember to keep it protected from the tiny claws. Now we have to get Bella some weight and Sierra a diet (poor girl, she has kind of gained some. Yep, I am researching cat diets.)

Today hasn't been that bad. I had a report that seriously made no sense. When I added the data, the formula amount just didn't add up to me. I called the lady who made the spreadsheet and it turns out she just needed 2 numbers and not the spreadsheet filled in. Good for me! Apparently the spreadsheet confused the other regions too.......... Glad I wasn't the only one. I've been productive all day -- now I need to regroup and figure out what needs to be done!

Later!

Monday

Okay, so it hasn't been that bad of a Monday. I have been productive and it is zooming by quickly. It has been busy and I still have two more reports to work on. One requires the managers to pay attention so I might be beating a few up soon.

Today, the kittens are 3 weeks old! Very hard to believe. I have some pictures that I will post either tonight or tomorrow. They are all very active and now starting to explore the world (well, the second bedroom). We had several visitors this week to see the kittens and Brooke did very well. No aggression, no hissing. I think she is to the point where she is relieved someone else is entertaining the little ones, not just her. Bella is still too tiny but apparently I am the only one concerned so I will just let it go. :). Edward and Jasper certainly don't care as they tackle her and sit on her head.

Now, so that everyone will not think that I have turned into the crazy cat lady, I will share other events in my world. As most of you know, I am in the a weight loss contest with my two aunts, uncle and two cousins (Katie and Kelsey) from CA. Every pound lost is 1 point and for every 10 miles you walk/bike/run/move forward, you get .5 point. I truthfully have no idea where I am on the point scale at this time. I probably should have been tabulating my own results. Oh well. This week was one lb lost and 10 miles. I have decided on the weekends, I am going to get up and run/walk at White Rock lake. By the time it cools off at night for me to workout outside, it is too late to safely workout at that lake. It is something different and a work out goes much quicker around a lake than on a treadmill (or elliptical or stationary bike). I still will go around the Village "lake" in the evenings, but that route gets very boring. Plus its only 2 miles. Mentally, it just works for me to hit up White Rock lake.

So, back to the grind. Everyone have a great Monday!

Even more pictures

I have been in a class and will be until Thursday afternoon. It is an OSHA Standards for General Industries. So far it has been interesting, and I really should have taken this class 3 years ago when I started :).
And now the fun part. The babies are now 2 weeks old and are pretty mobile. They are still walking like little drunks, but getting much better. :)




Edward. Poor thing still looks like an alien. He is very sweet and lovable :).















Jasper. Look at that sweet little face!









Bella -- just way too tiny for my comfort however she is active, trying to walk like the other two and does eat. I am going to see about taking her to the vet this weekend just to check her out. It would just make me feel better!

Update and Pics

The kittens are doing well. Bella is still very tiny so I am going to hit up Petsmart later today for some formula to supplement her feedings. I have seen her eat so I know it is happening. I would just feel better if she had a little more meat on her bones!

The weekend has been good so far. The plans tonight are to go dancing and that will be a lot of fun. Two weekends in a row! Yay! I am working through my NCIS DVR recordings this morning (after my workout, of course) although I really do need to get some cleaning done.

Now, onto the pictures......

Kitten Pile!

Proof that Brooke will try to get into any picture I try to get of the kittens.....

Jasper!!!!

Baby Pictures

Edward and Bella (Edward is on top). His eyes are opening and it is so adorable. They do a lot of this -- crawling all over each other!

I do apologize that this pic isn't too clear. Wiggly kitties make for less than perfect pictures :). Below is Edward and his opening eyes. Jasper is opening his as well. I am guessing Bella's will be wide open soon too.

One Week!

The babies are one week old today. It seems so long ago that they were born and I was in serious pain from a cat bite! But, here they are -- healthy and thriving. This is the fun part :).

Cute Overload

I have a few pics, I may have to submit them to cuteoverload.com. Nothing beats a squeaking kitten with its eyes still closed. Total sweetness. Sometimes I think my brain might explode from the adorableness :). The kittens are doing well and are just getting bigger and bigger . And I noticed last night that Edward has 6 toes! I am continually washing towels though. I thought I had a lot -- apparently not! :). And, by the way, Febreze Pet Odor Eliminator seems to be doing the trick. Since I have to keep the door shut, the air doesn't circulate and it is hard to keep it fresh back there. I picked up this type of Febreze today and so far, so good. Not sure what makes it special for pet odors, but hey, it works!

Happy Saturday! I am going to rest up and prepare for dancing tonight. I haven't been in awhile (I think it was Austin) and so I want to do it up right :). I have awhile -- it might be nap time.

Kittens!

Okay, I can type now so I can blog! Brooke bit me rather well and left me with an infection. But hey, I forgive her because heck, I might bite someone when I am in labor too! She is a good mom now and doing so well. The kittens are very active and so cute. I love the squeaking. Seriously, it is the best stress reliever watching them. Monday was very stressful but we made it thru. Both she and I had no idea what to do, but it all worked out in the end!

In the picture below: Jasper in the forefront. He is very vocal and very active. Pretty much a tiny, tiny Simon!

Family photo: Brooke and the babies. The total grey kitten is Bella. The grey with white feet is Edward and Jasper is the white with grey spots. These names are fully dependent on whether I identified the gender correctly! I am pretty sure I got it right but you never know. It is hard to determine in baby kittens.

Tomorrow is Friday! Thank goodness. Seriously, I am tired!!!

The Miracle of Life is Very Gross.....

We have kittens! My hand is swollen from a bite Brooke so lovingly gave me last night so I can't type a lot. I am now on antibiotics to make sure my hand doesn't fall off...... However, we have them, it was gross and they are cute. I had to cut the umbilical cord on all of them -- she has 3 so far. I keep checking to make sure there aren't more but I think she is done. I will tell the story when I have full functionality in my hand :). Once I can get a good picture of them, I will post them as well. Now I need to think of names! One is a girl and I am not sure of the other 2. I don't want to mess with them too much while she bonds with them.

More Pics of Brooke

I have had a laid back weekend, which is perfectly okay! It has rained on and off, which is the perfect weather to be lazy :). I have some more pics of Brooke -- no kittens yet, but I think she is close. Although, I keep thinking that and I have had her a week! She was very cranky yesterday so maybe that is a sign that cats are about to have kittens?? Who knows. I think she is ready to have to them as well!!!

Everyone have a wonderful Sunday! Later :)

By the Way......

I just registered for that 5K on Sept 12. So, I am locked in and committed! Here we go :).

It's only Thursday

This has been a slow week. All the managers are gone so it has been very quiet as well. Nothing super exciting has happened this week.... I am still on kitten watch. Brooke hasn't had her litter yet but she is doing very well. There is really know way (that I know of) to tell when she will actually deliver. I have towels all set up for her though! She seems to like under the futon chair, so I put some there too. Not sure if that is even enough room to deliver kittens, but just case! And I do have a big box that I should prepare for her as well. I just don't want her to figure out she can get into the closet and then decide to deliver there. I will take more pictures of her and post later on. She is venturing out around the room and is rather playful. And of course, when the babies come, I will post pictures as well.

So, I guess back to work. I have another conference call that is about to start. Everyone have a wonderful Thursday!!!

Adventures in Fosterhood

This is Brooke and she is my new foster cat :). "What!", you say? Foster cat?! I had been thinking about it but knew I couldn't keep a kitten because I wouldn't be able to stay home and take care of it (feed, etc). However, with a pregnant mom, once she has the kittens, she does all the care. I provide the quiet room, towels and food/water. The shelter I volunteer at sent out an email looking for a home and I actually said if nobody else could take her, I would. Guess nobody could take her! Anyway, she is about to pop. Any day I could have kittens. Just hoping she finds those towels I put down for her..... And I think once the kittens arrive, I get to name them. Yay! Simon and Sierra really have no contact with her. The shelter said just put her in the room and let her be. The only time Simon thinks something is up is when I go into the room to talk to her. I think it is due more to the fact that there is a closed door between him and momma. Otherwise, he doesn't really notice.

Hope everyone had a great Monday! I will let everyone know once the kittens get here :).

Legally Blonde

Awesome! It was just a fun musical and we really had a great time. The cast was good, the music was great, the costumes were amazing. All I can say, is I want my own Greek Chorus!!! :). Thanks Mom for the tickets!

The Wadding Pool in the Bathroom

Last night, I went to a wine bar in Plano called 55 Degrees. It was pretty nice and the wine was good. The food was good too. Now, the service was kind of stinky but we were sitting at the bar and he was the only guy serving. So, I actually had to give him a break for that fact. And he apologized for the crappy service and was pretty apologetic. Had he not apologized and been a bonehead, I would be a little harder on him and then told you never to go to this place. However, they try and it is a fun place to hang out with friends.

I got home and stayed up to watch some NCIS (USA keeps playing them and my DVR is set to pick every episode up!). So I watched TV until I got tired. I got tired, got ready for bed and settled in at 1:30. Or so I thought.......

(I will say this story I am about to tell is actually better in person because I can use hand gestures.) At 1:30 I hear this gushing sound -- like when the sprinklers come on outside. However this gushing is coming from my apartment. I jump up from bed, run to the bathroom to find the hose on the toilet detached and water shooting EVERYWHERE!!! By the time I got to the bathroom, the water was ankle deep. It was going fast! And I couldn't get the water shut off. The knob was not budging. I call maintenance (love 24 Hour on call), the dispatcher sends a guy my way. While I was waiting, i finally got the water shut off valve working and the water shut off. All the while, water is seeping onto the carpet. Maintenance gets there, starts cleaning up and I finally get to sit down and just chill (before I was trying to find every towel, sheet and blanket in the place. While I have more than I thought I did, it wasn't enough to keep up with the water.). I am soaking at this point too. Trying to get the water shut off put me into the line of fire!!! The carpet is a little worse for the wear but I got very lucky. There was no damage to the unit below me and my apartment has very minimal damage. And while they had a great response time, I never want to have to test that 24 hour on-call maintenance again!!!

Okay, since I finally got to sleep at 3Am, I am kind of tired today. Tomorrow I am going to see "Legally Blonde" at the Summer Musicals with Jen. Can't wait! I have heard it is great. I will report back :). And a shout out to Jen.... she has been very dedicated to her workouts and eating right. All her efforts have paid off too -- 51 lbs so far in weight loss. Lady, you are an inspiration!!! Keep it up :).

Happy Wednesday!

My first 5K is scheduled for Sept 12. That is 8 weeks to train. Off I go!!! :) I am going run/walk with Jen -- should be fun!! And since I am in a weight loss/mileage challenge with part of the CA family contingent, this will greatly increase my points (I'll explain the whole thing when I get more time). I am currently losing and it isn't good. The contest ends Oct 12, so I will have them beat by then.

The week has been okay. Really, I haven't tried to kill anyone. Well, I haven't seriously thought about it anyway. I had a migraine Monday. That was so lovely. I am over it and at work, happily looking up FOIA training options. Friday is coming, Friday is coming!!! I plan to meet Dawn and some other ladies out at a wine bar in Plano. I really am looking forward to it.

As you know, Mom and Dad are in CO. Mom just called but I only talked to her briefly. For some reason, her call was roaming. I am sure it was just because of my location in the building. My cell acts very odd in this place. They are having a blast and now on the way to the zoo. Lucky, lucky people. The cats haven't maimed each other -- Sierra could care less there is another cat in the house and Simon just gets curious as to what is behind the door.

Okay, back to work. Happy Wednesday!!!

"Noises Off", "Harry Potter" and the visiting kitty

The weekend has been good. Packed and a lot of fun. Friday night I went to see "Noises Off" at the Plano Theater. My friend's cousin was playing in it and she was very good. Live theater is always fun and it was in a small venue. Very fun. "Noises Off" is very funny and if you have a chance to watch anybody perform it, you should go! We met for dinner before hand on 15th Street in Plano. There are some great looking restaurants that I need to go back to - especially this Austrian place that we visited during intermission (the back entrance was accessible from the theater entrance). It smelled so great! And the staff was very nice -- definitely a friendly place.

Harry Potter was last night! It was great -- a very well made movie. I have to say though, Helena Bonham Carter was just creepy in this movie. I guess that was the point, huh. Mia and I went to the Studio Movie Grill and I really thought it was going to be packed. I guess the crowds were thinner because the movie opened earlier in the week. It was nice that it wasn't so packed (the Dark Knight was just crazy!) but I was still very surprised. Go see "Harry Potter". So worth it!!!

Now onto the visiting kitty. My parents went to CO this week to visit my cousin, his gf and the new baby (Zoey -- still soooo cute :)). My aunt is visiting as well, so that will be good for them to see each other. Anyway, to make things easier with cat sitting, they brought their cat to me. She has her own room and my two are pretty much ignoring her. Except at 1:30 AM when Simon decides he wants to hiss and throw a fit. Thanks Simon. So nice to wake up mommy....... So far, so good though. All furry creatures are in their own corner and no major cat fights have occurred.

So that is about it. I am in the middle of an NCIS marathon (my new addiction - so much better than a Real Housewives addiction!). I am so out of whack on my seasons though. I really need to grab the DVDs and watch them in order. Have a great day!!

Twilight

I've heard the book is better. I need to pick that up and read it. I am watching the movie right now. I love Vampires but this isn't cutting it. The lighting and coloring is fairly awesome in the movie but yeah, I am obviously not into it if I am blogging :). Vampires don't glitter...... I want Buffy the Vampire Slayer to come in and save the day. He, he.

This weekend has been pretty good. I met Jen last for dinner at Sweet Tomatoes. Oh, it was so good. It was good to see her too. I haven't seen her in forever and it was nice to catch up. She has a had rough week and my heart has been out to her the entire time. She lost her diva kitty last weekend and the sweet Cleo is now playing on the Rainbow Bridge. Lots of hugs, girl! My little children have been getting lots of love and hugs this week (okay, they always get hugs and kisses but this week it was to the annoyance of them :)).

I am currently in a contest with my Aunt Gail and two cousins, Katie and Kelsey. It is weight loss and mileage (cardio) -- it all counts. I hit the gym today and got in 3.5 miles. I think I pushed it a little too hard though. I feel a little in pain. But its all good. I am starting to get into running and it feels very good. It is nice to push and get additional goals in my fitness routine. I still need to buy new running shoes but other than that, it is all starting off very well.

Okay that is all for now. I am going to finish the movie. Let me make this clear -- I don't think it's bad, I am just not into this kind of vampire lore. I like Buffyverse Vampires better (but heck, Spike and Angel.... just hot....). I will read the book though. I am always up for good books!

Later. And happy Saturday!!!

New Baby in the Family

Yipes didn't post this yesterday when it happened! My cousin Steven and his gf had a baby girl - Zoey Kathleen! She is very cute and I keep trolling Facebook to see if more pics have been posted :). Congrats Steven and Christina. Now I have to get to CO so I can visit her.... (and then to CA so I can see Chloe, Colby and Skyler). Any one want to pay for plane tickets.... :)

Day is great. It's almost over -- and then a 3 day weekend. Woohoo!

Later :)

Monday!

Man, I am excited for Monday. Very strange...... No, haven't taken happy pills. Just happy coffee :). Or, also the fact that it is a 4 day work week. Woohoo!!! My project is coming to a close so that is good too. We have a Focus on Construction Campaign being rolled out (yeah, um, figure out the acronym for that one. Just remember the name came from our National Office!). I am working on the logistics of getting people from across the different regions hotels, cars, etc. And making sure they are fully aware it is freaking hot in TX. Hot like nothing they have felt before. It will be interesting. The first tour is the middle of July. It's been fun but its taken awhile to get it all together. Now I need to map out hotels and airports. Yay.....

I visited a friend Friday night I hadn't seen in years. Seriously, at least 2.5/3 years. She is pregnant and I have to tell you, I hope I look that great when I am about to pop. She was just all baby. No big booty, no huge arms. It was a nice visit and I am very glad I took the time to visit with her and her fiance. She took out the onsies I bought for the baby and I just can't believe any human is ever that small!

The game Saturday night was fun. That meaning I just stayed inside at the bar and hung out with my co-workers (the ones that didn't want to sit in the heat). I didn't have a ticket since I decided at the last moment to go. You could see everything from the bar and didn't have to pay a dime to watch the game. I did actually step outside and watch some action so I could say I did see it! Fort Worth Cats won the game 4 to 1 -- at least I know that much :).

Okay, I need to get back to work. Time to google and post directions for these people coming in for the Campaign. Everyone have a great Monday!!!

:)

Just stopping by to say hi! I am out the door in a few minutes to get the hair cut (FINALLY!) and then off to a baseball game. I wasn't planning on going however my friend had to bale out tonight because she is sick. Sooooo.... a group from work is going to a Grand Prairie Air Hog baseball game and i am going to join them. It is actually a group of people from work I like, so I will have fun :). It is more about socializing than watching the Airhogs vs the FW Cats. No idea who is better or what not. Just going to have fun! Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Happy Friday

I am feeling kind of random right now so here goes:

• Okay, really, cube neighbor won't hush. She just talks to herself -- all day. Argh. I try zen, I really do.
• I have this song called "That's Not My Name" by the Ting Tings in my head. I first heard in Denver and then again last night. It's catchy and I like it. I guess it is good that I like the catchy song in my head ...... it's not like the "Umbrella" fiasco a few years ago.
• I still want a cupcake....... (Kroger has very good cupcakes so I might need to make a stop on the way home)
• OSHA is hiring A LOT of people who need to be trained. Job security for me. If you know any engineers or safety people, seriously, send them to usajobs.gov. The government is hiring a lot under the stimulus package. No comments on the plus or minuses of a large govt. At least OSHA does a lot of good and keeps people safe.
• I still don't know when my brother is visiting from South Korea. He never actually answered that question, even when asked directly.
• "How I Met Your Mother" makes me laugh all the time (I've said it before). A new favorite episode is "Woo" (In addition to "Robin Sparkles" and "Swarley"). I might be a "Woo" girl........ sometimes......

That's about it for the randomness today. All is good and it is getting closer to quitting time! Woo...............

It's Wednesday. Party Time

Okay, not really party time -- although I would not turn down a cupcake....... :). I am just in a happy mood. I feel like a bloated fish, but still in a happy mood. Hate water retention. Bleh. But this will not be an entire blog about that. Aren't you glad? :)

Last night, we played trivia at the new location (First and Ten). Our team of 4 really didn't do that great. I can usually answer at least 2 or 3 questions, last night I pretty much died on the vine. Nothing was right. And I didn't even get the TV or Movie question right. It was shocking. We missed the Pez prize though. Another team was worse than we were!!!

Okay, that is the end of my thought provoking, earth shattering blog for today. Everyone have a great day :).

Howdy!

Just checking in to say hi! Denver was awesome. Beautiful, cool weather. They had tornado warnings in all the areas surrounding downtown, but I was spared it all. Definitely missed all the"fun" here in Dallas! Luckily my electricity didn't go out -- I have heard some people being out a few days! Yipes. The meeting was productive and I came away with some great info.

Another chill weekend. Awesome :).

I will check in later!

I've been chilling

And it's been great. Considering the last few weekends have been super packed and injury inducing(!), I decided to take it easy and get some rest. It has been a pretty perfect weekend. My foot is still hurting a bit so I still have to do modified workouts. But at least I am able to get them in. The recumbent bike doesn't do it for the heart rate so I really can't wait until I can get on the elliptical again. Never thought I'd miss that freaking piece of equipment!!! And I haven't been able to box so that stinks too. That is the best therapy ever and I need to get some aggression out :).

Other than that, I have been laying pretty low. I just got back from the shelter - I hadn't been there in awhile and so I wanted to play with the cats. I only spent an hour there, but it was still worth it.

I need to start packing for my trip to Denver but I know I will end up waiting until tomorrow night. I leave Tuesday morning so it isn't like I have to get it done NOW! I hate packing so I will procrastinate that for bit :). The Real Housewives of NJ are running a repeat, so I might just procrastinate with them. I keep saying I won't get sucked into these gals.... but, I do. Bleh.

Later!

Okay, so my doctor thinks I'm crazy. I don't see her very often, however when I do, it is usually a doozy. Hives, random falls.... this time it was a bug bite on my neck. It wasn't going away and I was getting worried. It itched and seemed to be getting bigger! She says it looks like it is going down. Oh, and I fell on Saturday night and sprained my ankle...... yep, pretty and bruised. It still hurts. I wasn't going to see her about it but since I was making the appointment for the bite, I'd show her my foot. I love it when she walks in and goes "what did you do now?". I need to work out though so I told Ryan we have to do super modified tonight. He's cool with it so I will see what he comes up with.

Okay, that is my excitement for the day :). Here is a picture I took of Simon on Friday. It is super cute and I wanted to show him off :).

Friday! Yay!

For a short week, it's been long! I have about an hour left in the day and it has been a busy day. Man, I think at one point I just had to walk away from my desk because there was too much. This job is funny that way. One day it is boring and the next day, I can't breathe. I like the "can't breathe days" but sometimes I end up feeling beat up. At least I feel useful and productive. Can't stand the days where I feel like an idiot. And next week will be busy too -- open enrollment, opening the mentor program, and preparing my presentation for the Training Conference the week after. I can't wait for that -- it's in Denver. Woo hoo!!! I love Denver and I get to see Michelle too. The meeting ends at 4:30 each day, so there is plenty of time to explore and have fun.

Okay, back to it. I want to get some stuff out of the way so I don't have to worry about it Monday. Usually Friday afternoons are spent watching the construction across the street :). You know they love having OSHA right there watching all they do...... :)

Quick Weekend

The weekend went by very fast, but it was a great one. I channeled my inner social butterfly and was out late each night (except last night. I was in bed by 9!). It was a lot of fun. Saturday night I ended up in Frisco with my friend Dawn and that group of people. We were out pretty late but I had planned to stay in Frisco so I was prepared. We went to sleep around 3 am and were up and bright eyed at 9 am for a class at LA Fitness. It was a body work and ab class -- since I had planned to do weights Sunday anyway, I figured why not. It was tough but I made it though :). However, I have never done that many squats in one setting ever. Still kind of sore! I just kept thinking "swimsuit booty!!!". It got me thru the pain.....

This week holds nothing too special. I think all my excitement was concentrated over the last 3 days anyway. I am really okay with that. My big thing will be going to the grocery store and CVS tonight :).

Everyone have a great Tuesday!

The Weekend!

Man, Sunday night and the weekend went too fast. Dang it!

I had a wonderful time at the wedding last night. It was at a little Bed and Breakfast in McKinney called the Bingham House. I am not sure how old it is but it is pretty old. It was absolutely gorgeous. They were planning an outdoor wedding but it rained all day so they moved it is inside. Worked out perfectly though. They just had to kick us out at the end of the ceremony to pull the tables out for the reception. The weather did clear up by the time the ceremony started and it was perfect.

The ceremony was very simple. A Dallas County Judge performed the ceremony so there was no extra fufu stuff -- just sweet and to the point. But that worked, especially for what I know already about the bride. She looked stunning too. I got teary eyed. :)

Now for the food (specifically the CAKE!!!). She had a buffet that was pretty darn good. On the appetizer buffet, there were spoonfuls of MAC and CHEESE. And it was yummy...... The cake was perfect. And she had a regular three tier cake, smaller individual cakes and cake balls! Woo hoo. The cake balls were yummy and easily eaten. I did like the "traditional" wedding cake a tad better though. It might have been because there was lots of frosting. But, I kept my promise.... I ate lots of cake. I worked it all off today though -- it was totally worth it!!! :) I did forget about the woman who stepped on my foot until mid day today. That's when I kept wondering where the heck the bruise on my foot came from. She was totally apologetic and really, it was a total accident and she didn't break my foot. It's all okay :).

It was so perfect for her and I am happy that it was. If there were any big issues, they weren't apparent (and I am friends with the MOH so I probably would have heard of the big stuff). The flower girls ran down the aisle instead of dropping the roses, but hey, that's to be expected from 3 year olds. I can totally see Chloe doing that :). Considering I have only known the bride about 3 weeks, it is pretty cool. :)

Later!

TGIF!

Why are all weeks so dang long lately! Argh! Anyway, its Friday and I am very happy. Survived it all :). Tuesday, Taylor and I played trivia at the Tipp -- we didn't win, however we didn't get Pez either. So so sad. It was fun though. Surprise, surprise... the question I got right was a TV question. Shocking, I know :).

Okay, the weirdest thing happened on Wednesday. I ended up staying late at work which meant I caught a later train. I ended up getting to Mockingbird station about 30 minutes later than I normally would. Then I decided to go to the Kroger by the train station instead of going to Tom Thumb. Once there, I went down an aisle I hadn't initially thought to go down. Down this aisle was an old friend I hadn't seen in YEARS, Amy. Seriously, it has to have been at least 2 or 3 years since we even talked. It was pretty darn cool. I need to give her a call so we can go to dinner. Of course that whole thing gets me thinking about all the turns and places we go everyday. It's all very deep and probably should be saved for another blog when I am not rambling :).

Last night, I went to a dinner held in honor of the bride (new friend Jen who is getting married this weekend). It was held at Fuse in Downtown Dallas. It was the first time I had ever been there -- I actually had to circle the block a couple of times because I wasn't sure where exactly it was! I had the right area, but the door is just kind of hidden. I found it because I spotted the valet stand! The food was very yummy and they had a watermelon mojito that was seriously awesome. I am not sure what the other items were on the menu because we did a limited menu type thing (they had set it up for her bacherlette dinner. I guess it was just easier and cheaper to do it that way). I ended up with the red curry dish. Even the edamame was great. It had this spice on it that made it different than any edamame I had before. They went to an Irish pub in Frisco but since it was getting late and I was turning into a pumpkin, I bailed. I told them I would be in full party mode on Saturday. I just had to work today and as it was, I was seriously dragging!!! Still kind of am, but I am getting over it.

Her wedding is Saturday and I am looking forward to it. She is having wedding cake balls at the reception. Pretty much anything can be made of wedding cake and it is awesome. I am really looking forward to them :). I plan to really push is Saturday in the work out so I can enjoy these cake balls guilt free.

So, that is it for now. I need to get some things done this afternoon. Man, Friday afternoon -- and it is kind of pretty outside. I'd rather be running around the lake. In time, I know. :) Later!

RIP - The Tipp :(

The Tipp is closing its doors on May 16th due to the downturn in the economy. It's a sad, sad day :(. Taylor and I are going to do trivia tomorrow night and wish the place a fond farewell (and possibly win Pez for the last time ever). I have to say, I have some good memories of that place. I do wonder what is going to happen to their faithful Poker night players (that was Wednesday night). I am sure they will find another home, but it won't be the same. Good bye Tipperary Inn...........

Happy Mother's Day!

Shoot out to my mom and all the mom's in the world! Happy Mother's Day :).

Saturday!

The week was great. I just got back from working out with Ryan -- we are still boxing and it is still the most wonderful workout ever! Plus, I get practical skills -- I am learning some moves that can be used if I ever need to defend myself. Calories burned and defense moves... what else can a girl ask for :). However my arms really hurt right now. Now I am just chilling, watching some old episodes of "Chuck". I actually need to go vote so I probably should get dressed and out the door. I also need to run to Target. Luckily they are both within a block of each other.

Mom and I are going to see "Rent" tonight. I am looking forward to it. I love "Rent" and seeing it live is a blast. I am making dinner for before hand -- I love my new crock pot. Well, to be honest, it isn't actually new. Jim gave it to me before we broke up -- and he isn't getting it back. So, I am enjoying the joys of the slow cooker :). And I appreciate Jen answering all sorts of dumb questions regarding crock pot cooking. I can come up with some doozies.... he he. Thanks girl! (And, while I am thinking about, shout out to Jen and the awesome work she is doing in the gym. I am so happy for you and you are truly an inspiration!!! Keep it up!).

Austin Re-Cap

Okay, Austin was WONDERFUL. I didn't want to leave. I have more pictures that I will post but I thought I'd give people a taste of some of it here. I went down for a bacherlorette party --- I just met the bride last weekend (the weekend before Austin). I know the Maid of Honor and she asked me to go along. So, along I went. There were only 4 of us -- the bride, Jen; Dawn (the MOH); Barry (yep, a guy at a b-party) and me. The bride had the veil and Dawn is the one obviously not me or a guy :).

(I hope these pictures aren't too dark!)

This one was taken at a tapas restaurant we had dinner at Saturday night. It was incredible. They had a fried goat cheese that rocked my world. Everything else was just super yummy too!

This picture was Halycon. It has the most awesome desserts and apparently great Chocolate Martinis. I took this time though to enjoy Smores and suck up as much water as I could. My cousin KaRyn went here when she was in Austin and told me all about it. So, so yummy! It was also a coffee bar and cigar bar. All these things in a cute, hip place.

We then went to about 4 different places to dance. We went non-stop from 10 -2 AM. One place of note was a club called Qua on 4th Street. There was a dance floor over a shark tank. Yes, a shark tank!!! It got so hot in there though -- I ended the night hanging out by the vent and trying to keep cool :). We also saw two bands (at two different clubs) who were singing the old 80's - 90's metal (think Poison....). With all the dancing, my legs were killing me the next day!!! I sat down for about 10 minutes. Bad move. Once I tried to stand back up, my feet pretty much revolted and said no. And it wasn't a great idea to walk around Austin barefoot. So, while they caught the cab back to the hotel, I sat on the bench at the corner.

It was a short trip and we were on our way back home Sunday around 1:00 (stopped for lunch at Z Southwestern Grille, another great food place). When I got home Sunday night, I pretty much just played with the cats and went to bed. I was still hurting Monday morning! My legs feel a lot better now :). I think all the dancing was good though -- we had a Cinco De Mayo lunch today and I probably ate more than I should have. I didn't get stuffed, but man, I don't think I can eat for a little bit longer.

More pictures to come though! Be on the look out :). (And based on the preview I just did of this blog, I might have to repost the two I did already!!!)

Saturday morning

Yes, I am going to Austin today! No, I am not worried about H1N1 (the official, not fun name for that new flu). I am healthy and wash my hands often. And really, I know what a sick person looks like, so I can stay away from them! I cough often which is annoying, but a side effect of my dang allergies. So, I am sure I will scare a few people in Austin :). There was no more anti- bacterial stuff at CVS but I had some in my car so I will just take that with me today too. Just have good hygiene, stay home when sick and just be vigilant. It is the same advice given during a regular flu outbreak. Just don't freak out! (By the way, www.cdc.gov has very good information about the new flu virus and other issues as well. I trust it way more than information on Yahoo or CNN. Although, I really do like Dr. Gupta.... but that is another blog post for another time :)).

I am just waiting for my friend to pick me up. We will be leaving around 11:30 or 12. So I gotta run and make sure I have everything. I just remembered I need to pack that camera!!! Have a great weekend :).

Well, dang it

I thought the mind crack was over when "Rock of Love Bus" had its season finale. I just watched "Daisy of Love". Now its going to be set on my DVR. It think it will be off-set by my new love of "In Plain Site". If you haven't seen that show, it's on USA and very very good!! Anyway, Sunday night has a new guilty pleasure......

I went to the shelter on Saturday afternoon and enjoyed the cuddles of many cats. I even actually got a kitty hug. I was sitting down and a sweet little black and white kitty crawled into my lap, put his paws on my shoulder and leaned in like he was hugging me. It was the sweetest thing!!!

Speaking of cats, I tried to give Sierra a Benedryl because she has allergies. Yeah, never actually got it in her. I just ended up with a drooling, pissed off cat. She is finally talking to me again. I used tuna and thought that would work. Yeah, no. She isn't sneezing as much now and her eye isn't running anymore so I am not really concerned about giving it to her. But it was kind of funny. If she starts up again, I will try to give it to her again.

That's it. Watching a "How I Met Your Mother" repeat-- the episode "Robin Sparkles" is like my all time favorite of that show. That and "Swarley". Both make me laugh many, many times. Anyway, I have to clean after this is over. And based on this blog entry, I might just watch too much TV!!! :)

Later....

TGIF

It's been a super duper rough week. I am so glad it's over!!! I am meeting some friends tonight for Happy Hour -- a much needed happy hour :). Then tomorrow, I plan to hang out at the shelter. Kitties always make it better.

I won't really go into details, however I wanted to let everyone know I was still alive and kicking! Katie posted some great videos of the girls and it made my week. Seriously, any bad thing melts away when seeing Colby crawl around and Chloe dance like only a 3 year old can :).

Have a wonderful weekend. If I get something interesting to say, I will definitely post. This weekend, the plan is just to stay busy.

Later!

Quick Recap

It's been awhile so I wanted to pop in and say hi. Been to Denver and back (AWESOME time!!) and worked a little so I wanted to take a moment to do a brief overview. I have pictures of Denver and I will post them soon. I keep promising that however I just haven't gotten around to it yet.

I arrived in Denver Friday morning very tired but ready to go! I arrived right after a blizzard, but amazingly enough my flight was on time and I had no problems. Michelle picked me up and then we started the trip. Friday was just chilling --we went to the mall. That night we took the train Downtown and hit a Piano Bar named Sing Sing. It was a lot of fun, however I think tiredness, dehydration and altitude got to me because I wasn't feeling all that great during the evening. Saturday we went to the mountains and played in the snow. Michelle's boyfriend has a German Shepard named Chloe and she is the sweetest dog! It was fun watching her play and romp around in the massive snow piles. Sunday was just spent chilling, hanging out and talking. I got home pretty late Sunday night (and the flight was very empty. There were only 28 people on that flight!).

This week hasn't been too eventful. I did have a fun commute Wednesday (April Fool's Day) when the train I boarded pretty much died on the tracks. I got on at Mockingbird, then the train lurched, lurched again and then went backwards. Um, we know that isn't right! During this time I met a gal who graduated from A&M so we chatted from the time they kicked us off the train, we got on a new train and then she got off. I never chat with people on the train however she was a fellow Ag so not a total weirdo :). We just joked that it was a very bad Dart April 1 prank......

This weeked should be fun. Jim's birthday was Thursday so I am having him over Saturday night and I am cooking dinner. I don't get to cook for him very often so it will be a treat. I am looking forward to it :). That is the big thing for the weekend. I do plan to go to the shelter, probably Sunday. I obviously didn't go last weekend so I need to go catch up with Felix and Mr. Pollo.

Okay, that's it -- I have to get back to work. I plan to post the pics soon. Possibly this weekend, but I really don't want to promise anything!!!

Mid Week Wrap-Up

One more work day and I am off to Denver!!! Whoot whoot!!! I talked to Michelle today and she has the weekend planned already. She asked if I had a heavy duty coat..... um, I live in Texas, we don't need that...... and gloves.... apparently I need thicker gloves. I might have to buy a cheapo pair while there. It is snowing and cold and it will be great! I can't wait to go to the mountains Saturday. Her boyfriend's family has a cabin up there and so we get to spend time with them. Can't wait!!!!

Prayers are needed right now. I have a friend who's sister was just diagnosed with thyroid cancer. It is very treatable and she should be fine, however, please keep her in your thoughts and prayers that it resolves it quickly and she goes into remission.

That is about it right now. I am thinking I need to pack soon but I will end up doing it all at the last minute tomorrow night! The bad part is that I have to pack all warm clothes and that takes way too much space! It is much easier to pack for warmer weather! :).

Later!!!

One full week

I was proud -- I didn't fall or bump my head once in the last week. Yes, seriously, that is a feet for me!!!! :). The weekend was great but it was too short.

I started volunteering at the Humane Society in Dallas. It is a no-kill shelter which is why I picked it. They have cats there that have been there for 10 years. A little old man cat named Mr Pollo is my favorite old timer. He has liver cancer, is about 16 years old, but he has a lot of life and love in him. He likes to cuddle and loves to be petted. I look forward to seeing him whenever I go in. I will get a picture of him so you can see him! And then there is a kitten named Felix. He is a solid black cat and very tiny. He is actually smaller than Simon. I believe he is actually over a year old because he is not in the "teenager" room. I sing "Felix the Cat" to him although I only know the first two lines :). There are a lot of other little love bugs in that shelter. If you know of anybody looking for a cat, let me know!!! I have only worked there for 3 hours but I can pinpoint personalities already. There are about 20 dogs also at the shelter (so if you want a dog, let me know that too!). I stick with the kitties because while I love dogs, I really am more comfortable with cat behavior!!! I do have to take my allergy medicine though - with 200 cats in the place, the allergies kind of act up.......

Well, that was the excitement of the weekend. Got to see my wonderful "friend" too and we watched the "Punisher: War Zone". Um, yeah, it was very cheesy but hey, I kind of figured it would be. Jim wasn't feeling well so we pretty much just hung out and watched the movie. It was still a nice evening.

I am heading to Denver this weekend and I can't wait! We are headed to the mountains on Saturday and Michelle said that snow was expected on Thursday and Friday. Yay!! I will have plenty of pictures next week.

Happy Birthday Chloe!!

Today is Chloe's 3rd birthday. Man, to be 3 again!!! I can't wait to see the pictures. Hopefully we will get a hold of them before my Aunt Gail starts photoshopping them. She is having fun however I will not believe there is a cow in her living room for the party :)>.

The weekend was great, very jam packed and even with some clutziness, I managed to escape it in one piece. Last night I was rather exhausted so I was in bed very early. Probably before 9 (Rock of Love Bus was still on so I know it was at least after 8). It was nice however I don't think I am fully recovered just yet. I think that is a function of Monday though. I should be better once I eat my lunch and get in a walk.

Everyone have a great Monday!

It's Cold!!!

I am cold and still wet from this morning's trek from the train station. Puddles tend to accumulate when it rains for awhile. And there were plenty of puddles. Sigh...... My shoes were pretty soaked when I got in so one of my co-workers loaned me a pair to wear so my feet wouldn't be cold. She is a size or two smaller than I am however they are slip ons and they work for the meantime. I now wish I had tea at the office. Something warm and soothing would do me some good!

That is about it today. I did do the Zumba class last night and had a blast! She was an awesome teacher. She even had some moves that weren't Zumba related..... we did a routine to "Mickey" by Toni Basil, complete with invisible pom poms. Had a blast, danced my booty off and I will definitely go back. It was a quick hour :). They have other classes at this studio (Move Studio, btw) so I will have to do more there.

Okay, later!

Zumba!

I haven't gone to a Zumba class in so long and I found one fairly close to me, so I made plans to go tonight. I need a good dance session. I hate cardio and finding fun ways to get it in are always good. I need it too. I have been slacking on my cardio sessions and that is not good. My aim is to get somewhat tight by the time I hit Denver. I won't be in a bathing suit in Denver, however 3 weeks is a good time frame to pump it up.

I know it is a little late for a weekend update but I think I am still being affected by the time change. There was no way I could type it yesterday :). It was a great weekend. My "new friend" and I went to a concert on Friday night at the Granada. Some guy named Derick Trucks. He is a Blues musician and actually very good. I enjoyed the concert... even danced around a little. He doesn't actually sing (he has members of his band that do that), he plays the slide guitar. It is mesmerizing to see the fingers go up and down the guitar. Even from as far back as we were, I could still see that skill. It was fun to hang out on Lower Greenville too. I hadn't done that in awhile. Saturday I just chilled in Keller. It was a lot of fun to just hang and watch movies. I had my choice of "SATC" or "Burn After Reading". I wasn't very impressed by "Burn After Reading" the first time I watched it so I chose my girls.

Onto Sunday. That was spent shopping with Mom for stuff for the apartment. I found lots of things to make my surroundings smell good (candles, etc). I didn't find any wall decorations I just could live without. I am going to try Hobby Lobby some time soon. They have some good stuff there and I have heard I can get it pretty cheap. Cheap is good! I also had dinner with my parents but by the time that was over, I was pretty tired. I just wanted to crawl on my couch and nap. And nap I did. It was rather nice to be lazy after such a productive day.

Okay, that is enough rambling. Time to get back to work!

Friday!

Good Morning! The two Red Bulls are kicking in and I am kind of hyper right now. That will wear off around 2 so might as well enjoy the ride while I have it going.

I have recently made two new goals for myself. I was feeling blocked and stuck and just not really thrilled with stuff (and basically bored out of my skull). I wanted to move but then I realized it was really because I was bored with my space. So, instead of putting energy into looking for a new place, packing, hiring movers, etc, I decided to just re-decorate and spruce things up a bit. I am going to see how cheaply I can design. I might just put ideas out here on occasion for vote/input.

My second goal is some sort of business certification. I have a phone meeting with my new boss to figure out what best suits my future career and the company. I found a program at UTD that looks pretty intense but great. And it will give me what I need without the 2-3 year commitment to another Master's Degree. I just need a brain spurt, and the UTD program will accomplish that. I am getting input from the new manager because I am going to utilize the Tuition Reimbursement benefit. I really wouldn't care what she thought if it was my own money! She is very cool and wants us to have whatever we need to succeed, so I will take her input to heart.

There is of course the on-going goal of weight loss and just getting better and stronger physically. I just need to tighten things up with my eating and I will be fine. I love Cadburry Eggs and have my share. However they came out so early that I am already sick of them. No need to buy and consume any more before Easter.

Okay, time to get to work. I need to get some things done before the weekend hits. Everyone have a great day!!!!