I'm back....

Back by popular demand :). I'm just popping in to say hi and to make sure my "fans" have a bit of Kim.

In May, I took a trip to CA to visit the new babies in the family. Abigail and Kylie were adorable and I enjoyed the visit with them! I totally miss them and hope to go back there in December! I will post pictures in another post. Chloe was, of course, wonderful. She has grown up so much and it is really hard to believe she is 5. My cousin in CO and his girlfriend had another little girl, Avah. She is a beauty and Mom and Dad are headed to Colorado Springs to visit that fraction of the family in a few weeks.

Next week I head to Seattle for work for a few days. I have never been and I am looking forward to it! Jen gave me the names of several restaurants in Seattle that I need to try so I will check them out. I don't get to travel much for work so I am looking forward to it.

About 2 weeks ago I started a 5:30 AM boot camp with one of my co-workers. The month is almost up and I am not going to be doing the next month. I am just not a fan of getting up at 4:30 AM! Makes for a long day. I only have to go 3 more AMs (since next week I will be gone Wed and Friday). It is worth the workout I am getting but still -- 4:30 AM!!!

Okay, that should tie everyone over until I post pictures and update. :) And I promise it will be before 6 weeks!!!

Later :)>

May!

It is 50 degrees. In Texas. On the first day of May. Um, okay. I guess the silver lining is that I can hold off running my air conditioner in the heat of the day for a bit longer!

The last month has been fun. Nothing huge happened -- well for me anyway. My cousin Kelsey had her baby girl last week. So that was pretty big. I can't wait to meet baby Abigail next week when I go to Cali! Her and little Kylie. It will just be babypalooza.

I just wanted to pop in and say hi. And to confirm that yes, all is well. Everyone have a great week!!!

National Champs!

WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!!!

That is all, I am tired!!! Gig 'Em Aggies and congrats to the Lady Aggies!!!!

Well that was a wrong prediction. Butler got whooped. Oh well. I wasn't really that invested in the outcome anyway (as indicated by the fact I didn't even know who won until this morning). Now I am just wanting to get through the workday since I am going to the Star's game tonight. Should be fun!!! Everyone have a wonderful Tuesday.

Gig 'Em

I am not a big basketball fan however the Lady Aggies are heading to the National Championship tomorrow night against the Lady Irish. This is the first time in A&M history that the Ladies Basketball team has gone this far (or even to the Final Four!!!). I will be at the Star's game tomorrow night so I will have to rely on texts from friends and checking my cell phone for the score. :) I watched the end of the game last night and it was SO close! I was on the edge of my seat -- 63 to 62. So good luck tomorrow Lady Aggies!!!! As for the game tonight, I'm going Butler. No reason really. Just because.

Everyone have a great week!!!!

I was reading some old posts and in Dec 2009, I had just run the 5 mile leg of the White Rock Marathon relay. In that post, I stated I was going to run (participate in) the Rock and Roll 1/2 in March 2010. Hey, one year later - and a few miles short - isn't too bad. But next year, I am definitely going to be doing the full13.1 miles at the Dallas Rock and Roll 1/2!!! I might even be able to get my cousin Kelsey to Dallas to run it with me. If we plan far enough ahead, we might be able to do it. :) Her main focus right now is to have her baby girl -- any day now!! So, I need to make a plan and get the goal rolling. I shall also throw in some yoga classes because my hips are still very tight.

My Wednesday was rather boring so I am going to sign off. Everyone have wonderful second half of the week!

Random Stuff from the last 2 weeks

I saw Lady Gaga about 2 weeks ago at the American Airlines Center. That woman knows how to put on a show. She was AMAZING! People call her weird - she is a genius. Lady Gaga has some serious talent and I really hope that she can go far in her career, even after the Gaga "persona" morphs into something else. I was on a Lady Gaga high for about a week after the concert! My cousin KaRyn also saw her, about a week after I did and had the same review. It was amazing and really, I don't think anybody will be able to out do her show.

This past weekend, Jen and I competed in the Rock and Roll 1/2 Marathon Relay. I am so glad they had a relay option because I wasn't ready for the full 13.1 miles and I was able to get the race "high" on only 7.1 miles. Jen rocked it and I was so proud of her. While I was waiting for her at the finish line, I got to hear me some Bret Michaels. He was good (no Lady Gaga, that's for sure!). But I did enjoy getting to jam to him. I did like that he played the "Rock of Love" theme song. That made me giggle. I am still pretty sore from Sunday's race however it isn't as bad as I thought it would be. Just some sore hips. I am definitely looking forward to next year's Rock and Roll 1/2. And next time I will do the whole thing. (I will also train a bit better!).

Sierra is doing well since Simon left us. I was kind of worried for her -- I wasn't sure if she would be depressed, go calling for him, or what. She hasn't done any of that. The vet thinks it is just because she knew something was up to begin with and so it isn't like it was a shock for her. She had her check up on Saturday morning and is perfectly healthy. Thank goodness because that is something I do not want to go through again for a long time. Losing a pet is hard, especially one as special as Simon. He will always be in my heart and I know that to be true. I have wonderful friends and I am thankful for my Mom and Dad who helped so much through the entire thing. I appreciate everything they did for me.

So everyone have a great week and more later!

Happy Birthday!

Little Miss Chloe is 5 today!! Happy Birthday sweetie!!!!

A Couple of Pictures

It is so weird today. I really feel at peace. Yes, I miss Simon like crazy, but I know he is playing at the Rainbow Bridge, back to his healthy, chatty state. I took some videos of him "talking" to me a few weeks ago and so last night, I just watched those. Sierra doesn't actually seem to realize he is gone. Or maybe she does and her being attached to my hip is a sign of that. I am not sure what I expected from her..... She has been searching for sunbeams this morning :). She succeeded a few times.

Here are just a couple of pictures. Of course, I have more :). I want to remember his happy times and the joy he brought to all who met him. The bottom picture was taken with a cell phone so it isn't that great.



Simon's favorite spot at Thanksgiving (I did stop him from getting on the table after I took the picture!). I think he loved Thanksgiving as much as I do!

sad news

Today, Simon has gone to the Rainbow Bridge. I can't really write more than that It has been a long day and I really want a nap. Once I feel a bit better, I will write more. You will be missed my sweet, silly, talking kitty. Rest in Peace my darling.

Simon Update

We visited the kitty oncologist today and despite still being very tiny, everything looks good. The vet has started him on iron shots because he is very anemic. We are also going to try an appetite stimulant. That was fun getting down this evening.... :/. The tumor has actually shrunk so I will be giving him another round of chemo. I should be getting that on Friday. Once his iron is up, I can go to giving him pills. Now I will have to take him in for shots 3x a week. Simon is not too happy with me right now but that is too bad. He doesn't seem to get that I am trying to help him. Truthfully, I am surprised he hasn't gone back under the table to "hide" from me!

(And is it really only Wednesday?? This is a long freaking week!)

We have had a good week

Simon has gained weight (whoot -- 10 ounces!) and he has been eating. Now, he is still a bit lethargic but I am thinking he is still doing well for having a lymphoma in his abdomen. His blood work came back to today and it looks good. His white blood cell count is good. He is still anemic, however that is due to the chronic illness. He still yells at me when I come home from work and then settles down onto his blanket. He was rather talkative when I got home last night. :). Next week, we go back to the kitty oncologist to see if he will continue chemo treatments.

Now I have a story about why you should keep your purse with you while helping to clean up after an event. Last weekend was the Dallas Junior Chamber of Commerce wine tasting (TASTE!). It was a great event and there were about 467 people in attendance. I was a wine pourer from 8-10 (and we ran out of wine!). Afterwards, I was helping to clean up since I was on the committee. It was kind of expected. I placed my purse at the registration table, thinking it would be watched over. Yeah, instead it got thrown into someone elses bigger bag and taken to her car. So, me, with no purse, cell phone, and car key - not to mention no ID or debit card. Luckily my parents have an extra key to my car so my friend drove me to their house in Irving, and drove me back to the art gallery. My house key was safely in my car because the purse was too small (thank goodness for that!). The next day, I got an email from the gal who had my purse. She dropped it off and all was good. But it gave me a bit of a scare. Now, it wasn't the worse thing that could happen. In the scheme of things happening right now, it was just more of a hassle. Thank goodness I got it back though! And now we can joke about the lost purse and I made a new friend. I did decide not to join the next committee however... I am just going to volunteer at the Easter Egg Hunt.

Welcome to the World!

Congrats to my cousin Katie and her hubby Kenneth on the birth of their third little one, Kylie Eleanor!!! She is incredibly beautiful and I can't wait to meet her in May. Chloe and Colby will be awesome big sisters :). Apparently she couldn't wait for the doctor. She was out after the first push. I asked my cousin Kelsey if she said "ta da" when she came out. Because this kid really seemed like she wanted to make an entrance! She's beautiful and all is good.

I also got my tax refund today so I can say it was a great day :).

Sunday Funday

I just got back from seeing "Just Go With It". Seriously funny stuff!!! I am not a huge Adam Sandler fan, but we all know I love Jennifer Aniston. It cracked me up. And she looked great!!! And the gal who played Adam's young girlfriend was pretty good. I actually liked her. Anyway, go see it. It was FUNNY!!! (And the boy who plays Jen's son is adorable).

Tomorrow is President's Day, and whoop, I have it off!!! It is actually a busy day, starting with a work out and then a facial. I need both due to the stress of poor little Simon's illness. He has a vet appointment tomorrow and so I will let everyone know how it goes. He was super cuddly today and I took full advantage of our time. He got a lot of kisses today. He had a good weekend, although today he didn't eat as much as I wanted him too. He fights when I give his medicine and weirdly enough, I take that as a good sign......

I hope everyone had a great weekend!!!

There is so much going on right now and I want to write about. I just can't seem to get the words down in a way I want. Simon is very sick and it is breaking my heart. He is responding well to treatment so far but we go into the vet on Monday for his blood work. I want to share so much, and I will once I figure out how to say it all. I will say that I am grateful for all the support and prayers that have been sent our way. I have some great friends!

Hark, A Gibbon!!

Pictures from the Celebrity Beach Bowl

Action during the game.....























Adam Levine.... yes, we were pretty close!!






















Matthew Morrison being interviewed.






















The tent before the event.

Celebrity Beach Bowl - Best Day Ever!

This week has been insane in terms of weather. Out of a 40 hour work week, I was in the office 14 hours. The rest of the week, we were closed. And there was no relief (and some people couldn't even get out of their driveway! I know several who were in that predicament). I was able to stop by the grocery store on Thursday on the way home from the office. I was living off Peanut Butter Sandwiches at that point. I didn't think we'd be trapped that long! I did lose 5 lbs, so I am going to patent the Ice Storm diet :).

So, today was the first beautiful day in a long time and I wanted to take full advantage! My friend had found the Direct TV Celebrity Beach Bowl game that was going to take place at Victory Park. Since the weather was the way it was, they had an enclosed, heated tent. It was set up pretty well. I met my friend on the Red Line (she got on further up than me) and off we went. We walked from West End to Victory because it wasn't that far and we hadn't worked out all week! It was nice to stretch those legs!!! Anyway, we get in, set up in a really good spot on the bleachers! Celebs were walking right in front of our happy eyes. Some I had no idea who were (sports celebs, mostly), but I totally gleeked out when Mathew Morrison and Chord Overstreet walked by -- both so cute! Matthew was a good sport about the group yelling "Mr Shu" at him :). Hayden Pantierre (not sure how to spell her name!) was there too. She is super tiny. The lady interviewing her took off her boots so they would be more even in height! I have a pic of her next to the big football players because that definitely shows her tininess.

As we were sitting there, some producers from the Ellen show came by and asked the group I was sitting in if we wanted to be on Ellen!!!! Really??? We all got t-shirts and just had to chant "Ellen, Ellen.." It was this weird rush of fun. I just had to make sure my hair looked good :). I am sure at that point, there was no hope, but oh well. I was on a lot of videos screaming and yelling like a crazy person. It was all fun! I will have to set my DVR for Monday to see if we actually made it on. I will act the fool for her.

After the game, Maroon 5 played a free concert. They were great! It was crowded around the stage but I survived. I liked them before, but after seeing them live, I need to go get more of their music. Adam Levine was just hot. Once I get the pictures posted, you will see how close we were to the stage. Julie LOVES Maroon 5 so she made sure we had a great spot.

When we were done, we walked back to the West End Station. On our walk, I got what I wanted -- to see all the out of towners and get just a small feel of the Super Bowl buzz. There was no way I'd be able to go to any of the big parties so a free Celebrity Bowl Game was perfect. It gave me my brief touch with the festivities and a few stories. (And a new love of Maroon 5).

Everyone have a wonderful rest of the weekend. I will get the pictures off my phone soon and post (I really need to get a new camera.... hmmmm, possible birthday gift idea :))

Later!

Cabin Fever

Let's see, today I have lost power 5 times. Lovely. Dallas did rolling blackouts today to help reduce the energy consumption. However I didn't know that was the case when the first one happened. I seriously was plotting what I was going to do if the power stayed off too long (Kim burrito, in my bed, with cats surrounding me. It was just way too far to drive to Mom and Dad's!). The electricity came back on and then I read about the plan. And I had 4 more after that. Although, I could time them and knew pretty much when they would occur and for how long. I just cuddled in the bed to stay warm and Simon pretty much stuck by me for warmth. It looks like Greenville Ave is pretty clear, but not sure what tomorrow will bring in terms of the roads freezing over. Enough complaining though. I am getting some stuff done, so I am staying entertained. Plus, I have a lot of books to actually read (and I am watching "Glee". So much for reading!).

Now, back to "Glee". Stay warm all!

How I fell down the stairs

I guess I had better give a quick story about how I bruised my tailbone. I have teased NY stories and this happens to be the most dramatic. So here goes:

My friend lives in a 3 level house, all wood floors. On Monday night (last night there), we are hanging out and he asks if I will take the dog outside (he's working, I like the dog, really no problem!). So, Frankie and I bounce off the couch, head to the first level (we are currently on the second, in the living room), and about the 4th step, my socked feet decide to go out from underneath me. I can't stop myself from falling and my booty hits about 4 more steps before I hit the end. Seriously, at this point I can't move!!!! My friend comes to "rescue" me (try to help me up) and the dog decides he is thrilled I am on the ground and won't stop licking my face. I am kind of glad he did because at this point it was a mixture of pain tears and laughing tears - it made me not focus on my inability to get up. I finally made it back to the couch and after about 1.5 hours, I was able to walk (a little...). I am in my 2nd week of a bruised tailbone. It is a bit better but I am still pretty sore when I sit for a long time (the 4 hour plane ride right after was torture, I have to say!!). I think the story is a lot more interesting when I tell it in person (because hand gestures totally make a story) but hey, you needed to know :). I got some super ibuprofen from the doctor so that helps as well. (But, Jen, I have not been woeful since it happened!!! :))

Later!

The Countdown Begins

I am going to CA in May!!! Yay :). Thanks Mom and Dad for the great Christmas present. I can't wait to see the family and meet our two new additions (one due in Feb and one in April!). I also plan a trip to Fairy Tale Town because what better excuse than to spend time with Miss Chloe. :)

I didn't sleep well at all Monday night so last night, I pretty much came home, ate dinner and fell into bed. I barely got my make-up off and my contacts out. Tonight I will have a bit more energy so I will do the exciting tasks of Target and the Library. My library has the next 3 book club books so I was very happy about that! Once I start them, I will let you know my review.

Since I was such a blob last night, I really have no stories. I didn't have a packed weekend because I was trying to get over whatever sinus thing is going around. However, starting tomorrow night, it looks like my social calender is packed until Sunday. :) It's either feast or famine, huh???? It helps that the sinus stuff is going away.

Everyone have a wonderful Wednesday.

Kind of Random

I will name my soon to be written book "Best Day Ever". I just have to think of Best Days :). One chapter will be names "Things I have learned from drag queens". I really need to get working on this book.......

Hope the new year is treating everybody well. I have to say, it has been great so far. I have a bruised tailbone (don't run down wood stairs with socks on -- just saying.....). But besides my literal pain in the a**, it's all good :).

Read "Same Kind of Different as Me". That was the last book club book we read and it was incredible. I laughed, I cried. Totally a life changer.

Okay, I have a headache and my tail bone is bothering me today so this will be short. Although I owe you guys some good NYC stories. It's been a few weeks since I have been back but they are still fresh in my mind :).

Happy Weekend!!!

Post Post Christmas Update

Christmas was great this year. Although I didn't head to Cali, like in years past, it was still nice and surrounded by family. Only 2 of the people happened to be my actual blood relatives -- no biggy :). Christmas Eve I had lunch with my dear friend Dawn and her son, Andrew. We went to Chuy's and had yummy Mexican food! There is a new one in Plano and it is just as good as the one on McKinney Ave. We then hit up Willow Bend Mall. I normally wouldn't hit a mall on Christmas Eve but it wasn't as crowded as you would think a mall on Christmas Eve would be. Later that night, I met them to see "How Do you Know". It was pretty cute. I didn't really think I would like it after the horrible reviews,but I left the theater feeling warm and fuzzy and I did have a few laughs. Don't expect Oscar winner Reese, just expect adorable, warm and fuzzy Reese and you will do fine. And "Black Swan" is AWESOME!!! It is dark and creepy and interesting. There are plenty of WTF!! moments too. I totally loved it. I definitely did not leave the theater all warm and fuzzy. I was just freaked out. And I would see it again.

On Christmas Day, Mom, Dad and I went to the house of their church friends. It was a huge family gathering and I am grateful they let us join for the day. It was fun and the food was great.

Today is Monday and I am trying to get back into it. It is another short week and Friday I fly into JKF airport for NYE. I am so happy the blizzard hit this past weekend, not next! Man, reading the stories of stranded passengers is just making me cringe. It should be all cleared up by the time I fly out on Friday morning. I won't be hanging out in Times Square on NYE night (too many people and too cold!). I am fine with that -- I like the idea of being able to enjoy champagne, warmth and the ability to move freely. And I heard Snookie (from Jersey Shore) is being lowered in a ball to countdown the new year. That I can totally miss!!! Right now I am not sure of the exact plans for the night. I am just going to show up at the airport and be ready for anything. I will leave the exact plans to my friend. It will be a nice visit - 5 days. Can't wait. I am sure that is why I am actually in a very good mood today. I have this feeling, otherwise, I'd be kind of cranky. Just because.

Everyone have a wonderful Monday and stay warm! Congrats are in order to my friends Tobey and Jennifer on the birth of their daughter, Landrey Claire! She was born Dec 23, so a wonderful Christmas was had by their family. I will go met her when I return from NYC! I don't think I will have time to run to Frisco during the evenings this week so it will have to wait!

Meeting the new little people

Saturday I went for a brief visit with my friend Regan. She had the twins about 4 months ago and I hadn't been to see them. They are so so cute! (I know, you are thinking they should be at 4 months old!). It was a lot of fun to visit with her and to finally see the little ones. It was also a productive visit because she is a member of the Dallas Junior Chamber of Commerce and invited me to their happy hour on Thursday night. I am looking forward to it! Hopefully the babies will allow this to happen. I am fully aware that if something comes up, I will have to go alone :). But her husband is a perfectly capable papa :).

Saturday night, I went to look at Christmas lights with another friend around Frisco. There is a house that just goes all out. The lights are synchronized to music you can hear over the radio. Pretty fun stuff! I have some pictures so I will have to post, however they don't do it justice! The owner of the house is an Aggie which makes him even cooler :). This friend is expecting a baby any time (she is due Dec 28) however I really expect her give birth within the next 2 weeks (definitely before Christmas!).

Okay, that is the brief overview. Nothing too big, just a lot of visiting on Saturday. Later!

Peppermint Bark Recipe

I went to a cookie party on Friday night and it was a blast! It was modified to have us bring 3 dozen of our treat (not even all cookies!) and we just took what we wanted. This way, we still were able to share the treats but the participants took just what they would be able to eat (or share) and the yumminess wouldn't go to waste. Last year, I think a few people didn't take their pre-packaged cookie box and it just isn't fair to those who put effort into making 6 dozen cookies. I took some home Friday night and will be sharing with those at work on Monday! There was some yummy stuff. Instead of cookies, I made the Peppermint back. Yummy, yummy stuff! Here is the recipe:

Crushed candy canes, to yield 1 cup (The fun part is beating the crap out of the candy canes!)

• 2 pounds white chocolate
• Peppermint flavorings, optional

Place candy canes in a plastic bag and hammer into 1/4-inch chunks or smaller. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler (or microwave or just on the stove. I didn't use the double boiler). Combine candy cane chunks with chocolate (add peppermint flavoring at this point if desired.) Pour mixture onto a cookie sheet layered with parchment or waxed paper and place in the refrigerator for 45 minutes or until firm. Break up into pieces and enjoy!!!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend! Later!

Hump Day

I am kind of addicted to AMC's "The Walking Dead" now. Yep, nothing says Happy Holidays like zombies. :). By the way, never watch 3 episodes in a row before going to sleep.... I had some REALLY weird dreams!

So, not much is going on this week. Truthfully, I kept forgetting today is Wednesday! I have an Angel Tree child to buy for and some holiday treats to make for a party on Friday (peppermint bark. YUMMY and very easy. I'll post the recipe later.). I just need to pick up a few more things for the Angel Tree child. Mom took half of my kid's wish list and took full advantage of the sales on Friday! (Thanks Mom!).

Later!

Post Thanksgiving

And, it is over. Yummy food, lots of cooking, Aggie Football (WHOOP!) and lots of fun. My turkey rocked. Loved it. Now, it didn't all go according to plan. I now have to call maintenance because I have a clogged sink and I woke up yesterday with a headache and a half thawed turkey! But really, in the scheme of things, it didn't mean much and I still made it thru the day. I think the only thing that would have upset me was an Aggie loss. The turkey thawed, the headache went away and my sink was semi-functional (the water still ran which was important!).

I am at work this morning -- I think there are only 3 people, including me, here today. But it will be quiet and I can get some stuff done. And I am thankful I don't have to listen to noisy cube neighbor today. Now it is time to get into the Christmas mood. So, here I go :).

Everyone have a great day and wonderful weekend!

Pre Thanksgiving

My turkey is still thawing and I am praying it is done by the time I go to throw it in the oven tomorrow! Pie is cooking (and smells heavenly!!!) and I am watching an old episode of "How I Met Your Mother" with the Happy Thanksgiving theme ("Slapsgiving"). I love pre-Thanksgiving. And I love Thanksgiving even more. I hope tomorrow to come online to give my list of what I am giving thanks for this year. If not, I will say right now I am thankful for my family -- my mom and my dad and the rest of my crazy clan. They rock and I love them all very dearly. (Tomorrow I might be thankful for Coach Sherman and the Aggies so today I might need to be a bit mushy :)).

Too Early.....

Christmas music on November 16. Um, no. I know it probably started yesterday on 103.7 but I was out sick yesterday. So, today, I get to enjoy it via loud cube neighbor's radio. So, until the day after Thanksgiving, that will consistently irritate me. How can I enjoy the music closer to the actual holiday if it is shoved down my throat mid-November? Maybe I am just too cranky today (but, no, I know me. It will annoy me until November 26.). Now I am going to finalize the menu and grocery list for the next holiday, Thanksgiving. I love Thanksgiving and everything about it. I need to create a Turkey song -- there has to be a market for a weird novelty song somewhere. (But, I do need to start thinking about Christmas gifts so Mom and Dad, need a list!) But if I hear "The Hippopotamus Song" before Thanksgiving, I will give in and belt that out. I do miss that song :).

I guess it is good I can be happy my Aggies are ranked #18 and totally kicking booty! I got a bit worried during the 1st half of the A&M/Baylor game last Saturday. All that trash talking and I was going to have to eat my words. But, they pulled through and I got to tell that special Baylor Bear to suck it. :).

Have a great Tuesday!

Yes, it has been almost a month since I have written. It seems like everything and nothing has been going on. The everything is just stuff I can't write about in a public forum. And everything else is insanely boring, nobody would care. So, right now I am going to say:

"WHOOP"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A&M beat OU on Saturday -- our first win over them since 2002. It was pretty awesome to watch and the Wrecking Crew is back :). We are even ranked (I think for the first time since 2007??). Next week is Baylor -- and I predict we will beat them. There is even a good shot at Kim doing a happy dance after the A&M/tu game on Thanksgiving night.

Since I am at work, I will make this super short. Everyone have a wonderful Monday!!!

It is 1:30 AM and I am awake.... why????? Grrr..... I am pretty sure if I watch "Hoarders" at this hour, I will never get to sleep. It would be scarier than "Paranormal Activity" (and that was incredibly scary!) So, I am going to find a movie on streaming Netflix. I was asleep and then just kind of popped awake. It doesn't help that my allergies are acting up and I can't breathe.

You would think I would have some interesting philosophical things to spout off this early in the morning. You would be wrong. I just managed to make Sierra mad at me because she was happily sound asleep and I woke her up. Since she sleeps all the time, I am fairly certain she will be okay.......

Okay, I think the Benedryl is starting to kick in so I am going to head back to sleepy land. Later!

State Fair Pictures

I am really not sure why the pictures are so small, but oh well..... Here are a few from the state fair :).

Being flowers!!!






The fried margarita... totally rocked.




Big Tex! Such an icon.





I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Quick Check-In

I am doing great -- just wanted to pop my head in to say hi!

Let's see -- what's new:

**My car has a new tire. Seriously, what is it with my car and nails? And it isn't something I can put off -- I can't say, "nah, I'll wait for that new tire" because, yeah, a blow-out would be incredibly bad.

**Work is going well. Same old stuff. Nothing new to report :/. People who annoyed me before still annoy me. I can only go to my zen, happy place.

**I went to the fair on Sunday and it was so much fun! I will tell you now, the fried beer was AWFUL!!! I didn't buy it so that was good. However, I did have to get a corn dog right after to get rid of the taste in my mouth! Horrible, horrible. Now, the fried margarita was incredible! As was the fried butter. I didn't think I'd like the fried butter, but I have to tell you, it was a good indulgence. Since I went to fried food heaven on Sunday, I have been trying to eat better this week. My indulgence was only once this year and I usually only go to the fair every other year or so. If I ate fried butter every day, it would be a problem. However, I don't regret it at all. And I really would love to go back and get some more :). (But I won't.... because I don't think it would live up to the way I remember it in my mind!!!).

**Michelle is coming to Dallas on Friday and I am taking the day off. Yay!! Can't wait. It will be a blast.

**I loved the Britney Spears episode of "Glee" last night. I didn't enjoy "Baby, One More Time" because it was too high. But seeing "Glee" Brittany showcase her stuff, front and center, was awesome. Now, the episode was total fluff, but it was good, happy fluff. And watching Heather Morris ("Glee" Brittany) dance is just magical. I could watch her all day. I wish the whole episode would have been just her!

Okay, that is about it. Random stuff, I know. But, hey, my mind is a bunch of random thoughts today :). Happy Wednesday everybody!!

This is insanely adorable - Cats and Ikea (I found it on Icanhazcheezburger!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCB7RqGS684&feature=player_embedded

The weekend was great and I had a wonderful time. Nothing big happened, I just went to sushi with Dawn and then to the new Buffalo Wild Wings in Frisco. I didn't really think we would stay that long but we ended up watching college football most of the night. A wonderful waiter found us a table (it was packed!) and because of that, I figured we should stay for awhile. We chatted with the table next to us and made some new friends. A&M wasn't televised again this past week (not until 9/30... grr!) At least we are playing well - so I can't complain :). Okay, so it's been 2 games -- but still 2 wins is better than nothing. (Yes, looking at you Cowboys..)

Sunday I did nothing! It was kind of nice. So nothing to report there.

Right now I am watching a show called "Haunted History" and they are doing New Orleans ghost stories. I think one of the ladies giving commentary on it was a tour guide many, many years ago when I went. This would be the tour that I passed out on so I don't remember much about her except her dark hair and her giving me her water (well.... actually pouring it on my back...). Shocking that I passed out in May in humid, hot New Orleans (yes, sarcasm). I am sure I have relayed that story, but if not, I can definitely re-tell it here! This show is making me miss New Orleans though. I was supposed to go 5 years ago before Katrina hit, but obviously that never happened. But now I think I want to go back at some point.

Happy Monday to all! Hope the weekend was great.

Awesome Show!

Jo Koy was AWESOME!!! I laughed (tears at times) non-stop until he stopped. We had a pretty good view of the stage so that was good. I am so happy I was able to go (thanks to Steve for being my date!). We decided not to wait in line to get our picture taken with him. I do think I will be commenting on his FB page about the greatness that was the show. It was a very diverse crowd, which was kind of interesting. He just speaks to all types of people. He seems like he would be super fun to hang out with and just have a few beers. If I ever get the opportunity to see him again, I will!!! I love live comedy. There is nothing better than laughing until you are crying. And, yes, I did :).

And A&M kicked some college football booty today. 48-7 against Stephen F Austin. Solid showing :). Oh, and my friend's little girl took her first steps today. Go Ally!!!! I hope Natalie got it on video. I got the text after the show and I am happy she decided to share that moment with friends (pretty sure I wasn't the only one to get that message :))

Okay, time to log off. Because I feel lame for blogging on Saturday night even though I have already been out and had the most wonderful time!

Hump Day!

This week has been great. I have been busy at work (kind of to the point where my brain feels like it is swimming. Not a bad thing, I just feel exhausted when I leave the office!). I get to go see Jo Koy this weekend at the Addison Improv! I am sooooo excited. Love, love, love him. He is a comedian that appears on "Chelsea Lately" (and we all know I love her!). He just makes me laugh every time he is on panel. I was excited to read when he was coming to Dallas and then even more excited when my friend Steve wanted to go too! He is a big Chelsea fan as well and knows who Jo is -- so who better to drag along :). I am getting my ticket today since we just finally decided on the date and time. It was originally going to be at the Arlington Improv and I am not sure why they moved it. However, I am very happy they did because Addison is much more convenient.

My PHR Re-cert came back as accepted this week as well, so that makes me very happy. Another 3 years to get 60 credits. I will try not to wait until a year before they are all due. Really, that OSHA Standards course helped out a lot with 28 hours!!

That is it for now. I have to get back to work. Really, it is nice to be busy :). And I am looking forward to the 3 day weekend coming up. Besides the Improv, I have no other plans. So, it will be chilling and sleeping :). Yay.

Update

Nothing too exciting...

1) New cell phone. It rocks. Love it!

2) My Aunt and Uncle are in town from CA this weekend. I can't wait to see them tonight for dinner! I'm cooking and hopefully it will be great. (Well, it will be great. I know it.). I just made a fruit dip (recipe given to me by my friend!) and it is so yummy. Philly Cream Cheese, Cool Whip and Sweetened Condensed milk, whipped all up (all low-fat, fat-free, of course). I am chilling it right now and I expect to eat more before official dessert time :).

3) Went to the Women's Expo today at the Dallas Market Center. Spent an hour, it was pretty much all I needed. There were only a handful of booths I was even interested in. Oh well, it was something new to do.

4) Resting up right now, watching disaster movies. The SyFy Channel is running them today. A tornado just destroyed Las Vegas. That was just the first 10 minutes. Yeah, this will be a thought provoker....

5) I saw "Eat, Pray, Love" last night and it was so good. I wasn't sure I'd be that into it since I never read the book. It was funny, thought provoking and just a lot of fun. I do recommend it.

Okay, that's it right for now! Everyone have a great Saturday.

Um....

I now remember why the cute pair of Steve Madden shoes hadn't been worn to work in awhile. When you go walking around Downtown, feet HURT! I am now wearing flats...... (But they are so cute!! I'll have to wear them on a date when I am not moving so much......)

Possible Epidemic...

I swear, pregnancy is becoming an epidemic. This week alone, 2 people have told me they are pregnant (and Neil Patrick Harris just announced he and his partner are expecting twins. That got a super "AW!"). While I am happy for all, it is getting to the point where I am just not surprised anymore :). (Okay, one of them this week was a very happy surprise and special prayers go up for this special person! The people in the know know why she gets extra special thoughts and prayers. I won't be going into it on a public forum.). I had lunch today with an old high school friend who is almost 5 months pregnant. She finds out Thursday what she is having. I guess starting around Oct you will be hearing a lot about baby showers. And it is probably a good thing I like to buying for babies. I even checked out baby blankets at Target today. Monkeys make a good theme for a boys room, by the way :). (And, I guess a girls room too.)

Book club was fun on Thursday night. I really liked the book and it was a great discussion. I loved seeing Chloe and Colby before we started the meeting via Skype. Colby kept saying hi to the camera and she and Chloe would come up and hug in front of it. They were very adorable and it made me miss them even more! I wanted to hug them but all I could do was say "hi" back to Ms. Colby :). The next book club book is "The Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud". Hopefully I will get it done before 6:00 on the night of the meeting....

Okay, off to get ready for dinner. Meeting my friend at 6:30 and looking forward to a nice night out! Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

My exciting adventure for today? I actually went to the Dallas Public Library (Main Branch here in Downtown). I have lived in Dallas for years and have never taken advantage of all they have to offer. Okay, I didn't get a card because I left my ID at the office (the main branch is right down the street from the office) but I did go in, look around and get the urge to actually get one. Okay, so not really that newsworthy, but hey, you have to take what you can get these days :).

Other than that, nothing really much to report. Book club is tomorrow and hopefully I can actually get it finished before 8..... I think I can. It is a really good book, it just started off very slow. I think I read 4 other books before I got to it :). But, "Peace Like a River" is worth it if you are looking for a good novel to read.

I hope everyone is having a great Wednesday. The air is killing me right now and I am sneezing and coughing like a crazy person. I guess it had been awhile since I used the rescue inhaler.... :(.

Quote

The best quote on fluffy reality tv goes to... RuPaul on "RuPaul's Drag U". I am paraphrasing, however the sentiment is the same: "When you hear that negative self talk enter your mind, just tell it to STFU". I loved that!

Today was great. (Okay, it started a bit rocky, however I pulled myself out of it, regrouped and made it a great day.). I am exhausted but never mind that. It isn't anything a good nap after work can't cure.

Hope everyone is staying cool this week. Happy Wednesday! (Nope nothing else to report.)

Happy Tuesday

I have to say that today has been a pretty good day. I got into work with news that a friend of mine had her twin girls yesterday. They were scheduled to be delivered on Friday, however I guess they wanted to play early. They are both healthy and Mommy is doing well too (the babies were both over 5 lbs which is great for twins). So, yay!!! I had a presentation at 8:30, got that out of the way and had a pretty productive morning. Now I am slowing down and getting tired. 3 more hours - let's see if I can gain that momentum from this morning! (And, to make things so much better, annoying cube neighbor is out again today. Really, who could ask for more :)).

I'm Back!

I'm back from Atlanta and in one piece. I really am glad I don't travel for my job -- air travel is an a** whipping! I will give full details in a future post (tomorrow maybe). I saw lots of interesting things while there! However today is a day off and I am going to enjoy it. I got in last night around 8:45 (which was actually only 30 minutes later than my scheduled arrival time so yay Delta.. and yes, that is sarcasm....). Of course, with getting my luggage, and then my car, I didn't get home until around 10. It is good to be home. :) The trip was actually productive and my trusty Kindle (loaded with my new obsession Jen Lancaster) kept me company while waiting for delays and sitting on tarmacs. I guess I can't complain too much -- I got home safely. :). And Simon was definitely happy to see me. Man, he chatted me up when I got through that door. Sierra said hi and then just went away. She doesn't really seem to care much anymore when I leave. That probably should hurt my feelings in some way.......

Anyway, Happy Friday!

??

What the heck is up with "Christmas in July"? I have heard about 3 or 4 events over the last week that have the title and I was even invited to a party next weekend with the theme. Not sure if this is a new phenomenon or I have just been under a rock for the last 38 years and never saw it. Luckily, obnoxious cube neighbor has not found Christmas music to sing out of tune to. That might cause staplers to go flying.

I have decided to register for the Dallas White Rock 1/2 Marathon on Dec 5. I had forgotten about it but found a link yesterday and got the urge again. It is 4 solid months before the event and I am sure I can train and get ready to attempt it. I needed a new goal anyway and this is as lofty as any!! :). So, when I return from Atlanta, I will start the process. Seems weird to start so early, but I have lost the momentum from last year, running in the relay. I need to build it back up. So, there you go, it is out there and now I have to commit!

Everyone have a wonderful Thursday! I am really looking forward to the weekend. If only because it is the weekend!!! I am tired of Grumpus people (and I was TOTALLY one on Monday. I was tired of myself!).

What was I going to say???

I had a great blog post written in my mind and for some reason, on the walk back from lunch, it went away. Not sure where. It was great, I can assure you of that :).

Last night, I finally got to watch the new Logo show, "Drag U". It premiered Monday night but the DVR picked it up. I make no apologies for my love of Drag Queens. I would watch episodes of "RuPaul's Drag Race" over and over again. (Except when Pandora got kicked off. Couldn't watch that more than once.). I really like "Drag U" -- it is pure fluff and really doesn't take itself too seriously. The premise is that each episode takes ordinary women and gives them a drag "professor". The contestants of Season One and Two of Drag Race serve as the "professors". Now, truthfully, had I known this show was going into production I might have tried to get on. I might have to frump down a bit, but really, for my own Drag Mother I would do it :). What made me sad was a woman on there who said she never felt beautiful in her life. I have days of feeling like an ugly duckling, but I am fairly certain I am beautiful. I loved the fact that at the end of the show, she sat up there and said "I am a beautiful woman!" with gusto. Yes, this fluffy show gave me little tears of happiness. The show won't win Emmy's but it brings back my favorite Drag Queens (PANDORA!!! and Nina too :)) and brings a bit of sunshine to women who need it in there life. I even was able to stand Raven. Her and Jujubee were pretty funny together. If you haven't watched "Drag Race" before, you have no idea who I am talking about. Sorry :).

Next week is a trip to Atlanta for the Annual Training Meeting. I am really not looking forward to it but I must do my duty. It won't be that bad, I know. Just too hot for humans. Even hotter than Dallas, I think. At least last year it was in Denver. Cooler temps and I got to see Michelle. It is a way to get out of the office, so that is a silver lining too. Maybe I will get some good stories on the trip. People watching at the airport is always interesting.

PS -- today is National Junk Food Day. For those of you who are interested :).

My New Obsession

I have recently discovered the books of Jen Lancaster. Jen writes a blog (funny!!) and has 5 books out now (memoirs). I have to say, I just LOVE her. Her writing is funny and her stories are very interesting. I found her when I was doing research for my choices for the book club. I can't help but laugh when I read the books. I have gotten many a side eye on the train in the morning! But really, when you have to laugh, it will come out. (Sh*t my Dad Says" is also very funny and I highly recommend that one too). Anyway, the point is that I highly recommend her books to anyone looking for a good read, funny writing and a witty, very smart mind. I have her first book "Bitter is the New Black" in "real" book form and so I am willing to loan it out when I get done reading it. And more than likely that will be Wednesday or Thursday. After I am done with this book, I will need to get going on our next book club book "Peace Like a River". It is downloaded and ready to go. And, well, so is Kendra Wilkinson's new book but that seems pretty easy. Not sure what has gotten into me, but I am on a book kick! I guess there are worse things to be addicted to......

Hope the weekend was awesome for everybody!

I went to see "Eclipse" last night with a friend and it was pretty good. I enjoyed it -- definitely a lot better than the first "Twilight" movie. It was nice eye candy for a Sunday night. Anyway, after the big fight scene where Edward saves his beloved Bella from the evil vampire trying to kill her, my friend leans over and says "A bit over dramatic...". That pretty much gave me the giggles. At least that scene was close to scene in the book. :)

My friend is the queen of finding deals and so she had a coupon for $1 popcorn and $1 Soda at the AMC for July 4th only (any size!). I never buy popcorn at the theater however I took full advantage of it. I do have to remember never to get a large diet coke at 7 PM if I want to get to sleep before 2 AM. Thank goodness I didn't have to work today.

Well, that is about it for the laziest Fourth of July weekend ever. I really don't plan to get much done today either (well, laundry and possibly a trip to the grocery store). I would rather stay in, watch movies and read some. I truthfully think the Kindle has caused me to read more. Not a bad thing! I do have to circle back and refresh on "Water for Elephants" since we have book club this week and I am the leader this month. Happy Monday and have a great day!

Yep, I know

It has been a while since I blogged. I am totally aware of that. I just have nothing interesting to say right now. Really, I am thinking but life has just been status quo lately (or, I just have things I want to keep private for the time being ;-)). Obnoxious cube neighbor is out of the office today. That made life great. She has been out a lot lately. Not sure how I have managed to go on with out her.......

This coming weekend will actually be pretty low key. I have plans Saturday night (not sure the exact plans, but I am going out) and Monday. And Sunday is dinner at Mom and Dads. I am just happy it is a 3 day weekend! I was supposed to cook last Sunday for them but I had a migraine that was not allowing that to happen. Stupid migraine.

So, that is it. I will think of something grand and then release my wisdom upon all. Right now I need to get back to work :). Have a wonderful Tuesday and enjoy the cooler temps!!!

Idina

So, I went to see Idina Menzel tonight at the Meyerson Symphony Center (thanks again Mom!). She was singing with the DSO. Okay, I knew she had talent, but I had NO IDEA what it would be like to see her live. The woman was just stunning. Her voice is just so incredible. I really do want to expand on this post at a later time, but I needed to get out my awe of her awesomeness. Not only is she talented, but she is funny and dare I say, adorable. I enjoyed her telling stories just as much as her singing. And anytime you can get the Dallas Symphony Orchestra to play "Poker Face" is a good time :). She sang "No Day but Today" from "Rent". That song always makes me tear up. I may have to put the movie on while I am trying to fall asleep. It is past my bedtime and I have one more day of my awesome job before I can get to the weekend. I will tell more later. But, she rocked. Love her more now than ever before :).

Super Saturday

The A-Team was awesome. It is getting awful reviews, but I totally thought it rocked. Okay, it may have had more to do with the fact that I felt super nostalgic towards it. I watched it in the 80s and loved it :). It was just a fun, super action summer movie. It was odd watching it with 3 people who never saw the original tv show and didn't even realize that the theme song from the show was embedded in a scene in the movie. Oh well. I got to educate them on the joys of 80's action flicks. :)

Pictures don't always come out in the order I want them to - of course KaRyn and I should have been the first one :)











































Everyone have a happy Sunday!

Happy Tuesday

So, first book club came and went. It was fun to Skype in and it actually worked this time! Yay! It failed in some sort of capacity the first two times I tried to communicate with the CA group.) I am tired so this will be short. Plus, one of my two readers was in the room with me so she knows this already :). I go first. I am up for it. Bring it. "Water for Elephants" is my book and of course, I haven't read it yet. I have heard nothing but good things about it so I will tackle with gusto. And I have some great ideas for books to read from the others. They were suggested but they didn't make the vote. Not sure when I will have time to read them, however I will get around to it.

Okay, bed time. It has been a long week and it is only Tuesday! Argh. Is it the weekend yet? (It will be a fun weekend too because my cousin Ryn is going to be in town. Yay!).

Later!

Book Club

So, the family is starting a book club (Mom and I are Skyping in!) and I am looking forward to it. Our first meeting is Tuesday and each of us are to present 3 books so everyone can vote on them. I have my first 2. My third keeps changing. It has changed 3 times in the last 15 minutes. There are so many books that I want to read and so they keep getting added and deleted. For some reason, that third book isn't set. The two I have set include one I have read and loved and the one I want to read a lot! I am not sure why I haven't put it on the Kindle (maybe because she has a blog and I read it weekly. I get her wisdom elsewhere!). Once we set the books and get everything going, I will share my choices. I am happy that Katie will be going first so I can see what a book club leader does. In my 38 years on this planet, I have never been in a book club!!! I am very excited.

So, tell me, what would you suggest (3 books) for a book club? I had a friend suggest "Little Bee" to me awhile ago. Anybody read that?

Happy Sunday! Enjoy the day!

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!

That is all for today :)

Best Night Ever! (Until the next one, of course :)).

Bride's wedding has come and gone. The girl looked STUNNING!!! Granted, she would look stunning in a potato sack, so it was not a surprise. :). The wedding was very nice and simple. That was a good thing since it was held outside on the 18th hole at the Four Season's Resort and Spa. Outside.... people, it was hot as freaking heck yesterday. I was lucky and got to hang out at the Bridal Villa until time for the ceremony. I can't imagine having to sit out there even longer. The wedding started a bit late so they had cool towels and ice water out to cool people off. I forgot to take my camera so when Bride gets back from her honeymoon and posts pictures, I will share. The bridesmaids wore a crimson red -- very very pretty. Since I was the guest book attendant I hoped a golf cart quickly and got back for the cocktail hour. That was the excuse anyway -- I just wanted to get inside and get some more ice water in me!

There was a cocktail time while the bridal party took the pictures and I got to mingle with the guests (pretty much scoop out the cutie single guys -- I had the perfect excuse to chat people up :)). There were some interesting folks at the wedding. Groom knows LOTS of people -- State Senators, Sundance Film Festival Winners, etc...... It was an interesting mix of personalities and I spent a lot of conversations just listening and taking in the information. I did chat up one cutie at the guest book table and come to find out he was sitting at my table. I am pretty certain Groom did this on purpose. Sneaky Groom! I had a great time and the dinner was pretty good. Now, they cut the cake and then served it from the kitchen and I was out on the dance floor getting my boogie on. Totally missed cake service. I missed Wedding cake!! It wasn't really worth stalking a waitstaff person for the cake though, so I just dealt with it.

Me and cute guy from the table chatted some more and we have a lot in common. It will be interesting to see what happens. He lives in Kansas City, MO at the present time so that kind of stinks, but I guess whatever is supposed to happen will happen.

So that is it! It was a good weekend and I apparently now have a cookout to attend at 5. Not a bad Sunday :). Everyone have a great day!!!

Feeling Human today

Yesterday I was in such a fog -- today I look and feel so much better! While it doesn't really feel like a Friday, I will accept that fact and that we are looking at a 3 day weekend. Yay! This weekend will be pretty busy, at least tonight and tomorrow.

But first, why was I a zombie yesterday? Jen and I went to see the Midnight showing of SATC 2. Yes, midnight. Really, I never thought I was a die hard, must see the movie the moment is opens, type of person. However, we did it. It wasn't the best ever but if you are a SATC fan, you will enjoy it. Truthfully though, if you didn't follow the series and the first movie, you might not like it. It is totally getting panned in the reviews. I liked it but I went in with NO expectations. I went in to be entertained and to see all the clothes and shoes I will never be able to afford. I found a few outfits I really really wanted!! The movie was a bit too long as well. They could have cut some parts out but I still did enjoy the movie and my time with my friend. :)

Last night, I was actually supposed to see the movie again for a bachelorette outing however the bride was sick and really stressed so there was no festivities celebrating her upcoming nuptials (there is a post rehearsal reception tonight, so she will still get some fun!). The wedding is the weekend, so I really hope she feels better!

Speaking of the wedding, that will be why I am busy tonight and tomorrow. Bride asked if I would be the guest book attendant. I love it -- the easiest job I can do and I am still in the bridal party :). Because of this, I am invited to the rehearsal and the rehearsal post party at Cool River tonight. I won't be able to make the Rehearsal because it start at 6 and I don't get off work until 4:30. I really don't need to rehearse anyway so I am not too torn up about it. She understands. I will see them at the post party at 7:15. That gives me time to search for a dress for tomorrow. I still haven't found one that I really want. I have seen some online, however finding it in the stores is a bit difficult. I have 3 places to try tonight before the party. I should have gone last night but I was so exhausted - I just went home and hit the bed early! It was the right decision :). Since the wedding doesn't start tomorrow until 6:00, I should be okay if I can't find the dress tonight. I will offer to come early though, in case Bride needs some "day of" help. She probably has a wedding coordinator, however it never hurts to ask. Especially since my duties consist of standing there and pointing to a book to sign. I can do more if needed :).

(And here's hoping for some cute, single Groomsmen....)

Come Sunday and Monday, I will be resting and just winging it. There are no plans set in stone, however i am sure I will have at least one or two activities to keep me busy. I have a few friends who have mentioned getting together, so we shall see.

So, everyone have a wonderful Friday. Perfect weather (despite the Orange air alerts, which now make me wonder where my emergency inhalers are....). Later!!

wrap-up

Saturday's baby shower was very nice. I really wasn't in the mood to be social but the hostesses did a great job and Regan got some great stuff for her twin girls. The next baby shower I go to will be in a few months (the next friend having a baby in due in Dec) so I got some great ideas for gifts for her. I am not sure why I wasn't in a social mood -- I wasn't feeling that great but still!!! She had a great event and that is all that matters. I did see Iron Man 2 last night with a friend and that was a great movie. It is totally what you would expect from a good action summer movie! I didn't even remember half of the first Iron Man, and it was still good. The next movie I see will be Sex and the City 2 ( and I will see it 2x in less than 24 hours - that story to follow later!!!). I am looking forward to it :).

I am flipping between Lost and Celebrity Apprentice right now. I never watched either but nothing else is on. I only care who the winner is of Celebrity Apprentice so I am waiting until the end to flip back. Bret Michaels better win. I never watched Lost and so the series finale means nothing to me. I have no idea what is going on! :). So, I am just waiting until Donald Trump announces the winner for Apprentice. I have about an hour. Since I have half watched this season, I don't care about the final challenge... just want to know the winner.

Everyone have a great Sunday night -- time to get ready for the week! It will be a long but fun one :). I expect to have some great stories next Sunday!!!

Friday!

The week has ended and all is good. For some reason, it has been a long one. Not sure why! (They all seem to be long but hey, that's life)

This weekend will be pretty good. I don't plan on much tonight, however tomorrow I am attending a baby shower and going to see Iron Man 2. Can't wait for both! It should be a fun time. :)

Anyway, more later. 15 min and I can take off. It is a beautiful day (okay, so a bit humid, but I will deal) and I can't wait to get my booty out that door. Have a great weekend!!!

Baby Lemur takes over Thursday

A lemur from www.cuteoverload.com. Look at this one long enough and you will start to laugh. At least I did :). This will be me next week, by the way!!! Lots of fun happenings in the future.

(take a look at www.cuteoverload.com for more lemur fun and other cute critters)

Lasers Away

Okay, it might be funnier if I cropped it closer, but I don't have that software on this computer. :).

Weekend overview

It has been a fun weekend! Here is a brief overview:

Friday night I met Jen for dinner at the Melting Pot. Oh my, I forgot the awesomeness of this place! So, so yummy. We were placed in a room that would have been perfect had Jen and I been on a date :). Our booth was in the middle of 3, so we did get to hear 3 dates that came and went while we were there. The first date was a couple getting married in 2 weeks. The second was a first date (we predict this relationship won't last....). The last was very sweet -- they have been married 11 years and I think this was an anniversary dinner. He had roses for her and they were served champagne. I wanted to be on that date!

Our waiter was pretty awesome. He knew the menu, kept us laughing, brought me some yummy martinis. Try the Yin/Yang drink but beware it is definitely more of a dessert drink. It was awesome, however it was ice cream and massive amounts of chocolate. Definitely a dessert drink! We were there for a few hours and had some great laughs. Thanks girl!!!

Saturday night I ended up at the Ginger Man in Uptown. I haven't been there in ages and it was fun to go back. It was the birthday party for someone I had never met. I knew his friend and it was one of those "more the merrier" things. The Ginger Man is a great place to people watch and there were some pretty cute boys. I had fun and stayed a lot longer than I thought I was going to - always a good sign.

Today, I went to see "Little House on the Prairie" at the Dallas Summer Musical with my Mom. It isn't one that I would have just clamored to go see, however it was pretty good. The music was fun, it was a good story, and the acting was good. Melissa Gilbert played "Ma" and she was great. She can't sing all that well, however she owns it and tried. I appreciated that. The girl who played Laura just rocked it and Nellie Olson was awesome. You need a ham in each musical and Nellie was that ham :). I never read the books as a kid and I really wasn't into the TV show, but dang it, now I need to download the books to the Kindle.

Now I am catching up on Grey's Anatomy. I am almost caught up. Owen is a moron and I really don't miss Izzie. Now I need to catch up on "Criminal Minds". None of them are morons and I would miss them all!

Pictures of the cats

Simon kind of looks evil here.















Sierra is hogging their new toy. Mine, all mine!

how I felt before my new computer...

Just some LOL cat fun......

Update

The car goes to the body shop on Monday morning. Once you submit something to USAA, they work FAST! I am sure had it not been a Wednesday, they would have had me bring the car in earlier. They usually have cars come in Monday - Wednesday so they have maximum time to work on them (I am taking it to Service King). I love USAA insurance. I really wish I could actually be a member. So, the car will be be fixed sometime next week. I didn't think there was that much damage but it turns out there was about $857.37 worth! Dang -- just for a scratch and some paint. I guess if I had to get hit, it was good to be hit by a guy with great insurance. (And no one was hurt, which is the most important part!).

Other than that, the week has been pretty low key. My allergies are killing me today. It is very annoying and it is obvious when I am talking to people. Sneezy, that is my name today :).

Everyone have a wonderful Wednesday. It is freaking gorgeous outside. I want to be playing in the sun! 2 more hours and I will be running around the lake (the Village Lake that is -- not White Rock). Speaking of White Rock - there is a race this weekend, but it is 5 miles. I am so not ready for 5 miles so I am going to skip it. The Dallas Race Club is holding it and if I was remotely training, I might try it. But, yeah, I would pass out at mile 4! So, I will just cheer them on from afar. I have a co-worker who was asking if I wanted to run it. I had to politely decline!

Well, yay.....

I have new red hair :). Got some girly things done today so it's all good. I did get rear-ended today too. Yep, at Caruth Haven and 75. My car really didn't sustain any damage but I am going to get it checked out anyway just to be sure. I think the poor guy who hit me suffered more damage to his ego. It didn't hurt me and he and his passenger weren't injured either. So, it's all good. VW's have great bumpers by the way! I love my Jetta and so glad it's okay.

Now I am resting and baking brownies. I am heading to a friend's house tonight for a bbq and that will be fun. I have to drive to Frisco and as long as no one tries to rear end me again, I will be fine.....

Always an adventure.....

So, as we all know, I was excited to leave work early to hang out with Michelle. And hang out we did. I met her at Trinity Hall at Mockingbird Station. She was running behind but I had my trusty Kindle to get me through the rough 30 minutes of waiting. I love this little device. That isn't part of the story, but really, it was easy to just pull out of my purse and entertain myself. And I am in the process of reading a really good book, but that will be another blog post. I am half way done and once completed, I will give a review!

So, back to yesterday. Michelle comes with her mom and we start the fun. She brings me a stuffed little monkey from the Denver Zoo and a monkey twirly straw. The twirly straw comes in handy when you want to entertain the waitstaff and drink with it. We laughed and laughed for hours and then decided it was time to leave (after 4 hours and lots of stares from other patrons!) and headed to my place to get ready to go to Sushi Zushi for dinner. Taylor joins us at the restaurant for sushi and we laugh some more (I have considerably slowed down, however I like to think I got my second wind around 8 or so). After dinner, we headed to Milo Butterfingers to meet more friends out and subject them to our goofiness and tales of the Monkey at Trinity Hall. I don't think they thought it was as funny as we did. :). It was a long day and I am pretty tired today. I want to get some stuff done since I left early yesterday, but that isn't really happening. Blergh. I ate like crap yesterday so today is water, salad and a good run on the treadmill. Nothing else tonight though because I am super tired and I think rest is a better idea.

Everyone have a wonderful Friday. I will get some pictures of yesterday downloaded and posted. It was fun but we had to pack in A LOT since she was only here for a short period of time. I need to save up energy for the next visit :). Yeah, I am now thinking I owe a lot of pictures from a lot of events... now that I have reliable technology, I can deliver on those picture promises.

Much better

I feel much better today! No more grumpus Gus... My new computer is awesome. I am leaving in 8 minutes to meet Michelle. Tomorrow is Friday and a payday. So, Kim is HAPPY!! Well, as happy as I can be on a cloudy day. That doesn't even seem to matter. My cloudy head feeling is gone and I feel human today.

Everyone have a great Thursday. Gotta go because I don't want to miss the train -- that will put me behind schedule! (PS -- I drove to work yesterday and it totally reminded me why I love public transportation. Parking alone -- $10!! -- was enough to love my DART train, crazy people and all!)

Howdy

I am just poking in to say hi. My home laptop officially died and work has been a bit busy. I just never got around to blogging. I'm alive, my new computer arrived today (YAY!!!!!!!!!!) and I will get it set up tonight. Pole dancing is still a blast, I worked out with Ryan last night and can't move my arms, and I am still tired and grumpus. Not sure why I am so tired and grumpy even though good things are happening this week. It's a mystery (because even the inability to move my arms to wash my hair is a good thing....). I'll get over it..... Michelle is in town and I am taking a half day to spend with her. First stop is the patio at Trinity Hall. Can't wait :). There might be some good stories from tomorrow. :)

Anyway, that is it for now. I need to get back to work. I just wanted to say hi! Or Howdy as the case may be!

Everyone have a great Wednesday. I need food so time to run and see what is downstairs that I can eat.

Another Texas Stadium Memory

I have no idea why I forgot this! When I was a Girl Scout, we'd have sleep overs at Texas Stadium. All the troops would get together and it would be a big ol party. As much of a party as elementary kids could have :). One year it got so cold (they would do this in January!) that we all got a polar bear badge (I may not remember it all so clearly -- it was a LONG time ago. Mom can help with details. She was there too!). I just remember the happy feeling of singing, playing games and sleeping in sleeping bags on really hard concrete in the concourse (we weren't allowed on the field). I don't think I have pictures of those days though. It was way before the invention of digital cameras :).

Woohoo!

It's Friday and I have tons of happy energy to get me thru the day. Coffee has been consumed, so I expect to at least be energetic through noon....

The week has been non-eventful, but busy at the same time. Work has been busy (good thing) and I have been working out in the evenings. Tonight will be some more cardio and tomorrow will be 2 hours in my dance class. (The first hour is more of a workout with weights and abs. The second hour gets into more dancing movements). It will be a lot of fun. I am looking forward to it. I sprained my wrist last Saturday but it feels a lot better and so I won't worry about it anymore. Considering how much I actually fall, it is amazing that I haven't sprained it sooner!

This weekend, Cowboy Stadium is being imploded. Now, I didn't think I had any attachment to that stadium, but as it gets closer, I am kind of sad. I was one of the last high school classes to graduate in Texas Stadium. I have pictures to prove it :). I grew up not to far from the stadium and would pass it often. It was kind of a fixture during my first 18 years of life. And I pass it on the way to Mom and Dad's house. It will be weird to pass the site for the first time after the demolition. Farewell, Texas Stadium. It is the end of a era.

Everybody have a wonderful weekend and enjoy the beautiful sun!

Monday

"Fun Day" -- Not really, but I have been working on a positive, good energy vibe and it has been working so far. What it has been is a productive day so I can't really complain. I needed to take a break, recoup my thoughts and get refocused.

This weekend did not live up to the excitement of the commute home Friday. By the time I got home, I had the worst headache so I was content to just lay on the couch and watch DVR recordings. Insomnia did lead me to some interesting tv shows. One, on a show about beauty pageants, they were spraying hairspray on the ladies as they went to the stage for the swimsuit competition. My guess was to make them glitter under lights. If that is wrong, I'd love to know the purpose. Another nugget I saw was school bus races. Yes, like NASCAR, with school buses.... actually, if I remember correctly, it was sponsored by NASCAR. I was half paying attention so I could be wrong there too. I shouldn't be surprised. People race a lot of things.

I didn't get any spring cleaning done this weekend. I really need to clear some things out of my apartment but the pollen has caused allergy headaches and sometimes, I just want to lie on the couch and wish my head wasn't about to explode. I do have new migraine medicine so if they get too bad, I can whip that stuff out. So far, so good today. But really, pollen, you may go.

I hope everyone had a happy Easter. I thank the family for sending some very cute pictures of the CA girls to me. They look adorable in their Easter dresses.

Happy Monday! Everyone have a good day :).

Friday story... a day late

So, I wanted to get home a bit early on Friday so I left work at 4:00. I get on the train about 4:10. All was going along as scheduled until we hit the West End Station. We end up stopped there for about 15 min and the operator would come on and let us know we'd be stopped for awhile. After the 15 min, he comes on and tells us there is a serious situation at the Akard Station and he was going to back us up and there would be a bus bridge to St. Paul. Well, okay...... I was thinking a medical emergency or maybe a hit car. Yeah, no! We walk closer to Akard and see tons of cop cars and barricades. Definitely not a hit car or medical emergency. We have to walk around the building, head to the back streets of Downtown Dallas (I would never have tried that one on my own!), and then go back down to walk to St. Paul. There was a man threatening to JUMP from the parking garage at that location. We had heard he had already jumped but was later told he was still up there. When walking by, we did see 4 people up on the roof, so I chose to believe this person was still up there. Now, why this person chose a crowded location, during rush hour traffic on Good Friday to try to jump, I don't know. I hope he gets the help he needs. I did get in some cardio (walking) so that was a slight silver lining to the inconvenience. It was a freaky scene and it is weird to know that I will never know the outcome of something that crossed my path so dramatically! I never found it on the news so if someone does, please let me know!

When I finally got on the train at St. Paul, ready to head to Mockingbird Station, the guy sitting next to me was flossing his teeth. Sigh...........

Happy Monday!

It's sunny, I am on my 4th cup of coffee and things are generally good. I am willing it to be a good day....even though it's Monday :). My weekend was pretty low-key. Friday night I met Taylor and Terry out to watch the Baylor game at Stan's down on Lower Greenville. It is right next to area of the fire from a few weeks ago. This was the first time I had seen the destruction in person so it was kind of sad. The night was fun and Baylor pretty much mopped the floor with St. Mary. It is not good when you actually feel bad for the opponent! Baylor moved onto the Elite Eight and played Sunday. They were beat by Duke, but that game looked pretty good. Now there are no more Big 12 teams in the tourney. I really have no one to root for anymore! Oh well. It was fun while it lasted.

I went to see "Alice in Wonderland" on Saturday night and that was a really good movie. I didn't have any expectations so they were all pretty much met :). The visuals were amazing and they had some great one-liners. I recommend it. Okay, so the movie was free so maybe that helped in my enjoyment of the movie. My friend got some free passes to Studio Movie Grill. She has one more (2 free tickets) so we might be going on Tuesday to see "The Bounty Hunter". I had received the link to the tickets too but I didn't open it in time and so the promotion was over before I got to the tickets. Next time I will act quicker!

Now I am ready to start the week. That coffee is helping too :). Everyone have a great day!!

My new workout

I tried my first pole dancing workout last night and I am so sore now! The studio where I took pilates and zumba classes now offers Beginner classes and so I went to check it out. I am not really good at, but man, my arms really feel it today. It is a total body workout and a lot harder than it looks! One problem though is that the class is 8:45-9:45 PM so it makes for a late night. I was wired when I got home last night and therefore it took me longer to get to sleep. Oh well. I will just have to make adjustments because I can't do the 6:00 Tuesday and Thursday class. It was a lot of fun and any new way to get in a workout is a good thing.

I did watch "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" last night when I got home. It was a really cute movie and nice to just shut the brain off and be entertained. Even though it's a kids movie, it was perfect for adults as well. I laughed a lot and really recommend it. I'd actually buy it and I don't say that about many movies.

Okay that's it for today. Obnoxious cube neighbor is gone for the day and I need to take full advantage of the quiet. It is spreadsheet day! Excitement abounds... Everyone enjoy the sun. :).

Happy Birthday Chloe!

Today Chloe is 4.

Oh, to be 4 again......

The Sun!

So, dreary cold and cloudy winters can make you forget about sunscreen. The Greenville Ave St. Patrick's Day Parade and Block party was this past weekend. It was a great day for a party, but yeah, I forgot sunscreen and my face is a bit red. Not too bad but it will peal and look just lovely. Apparently there were over 80,000 people up and down Greenville Ave! I can believe it. Even at 9:15, when I was walking down to Lower Greenville, it was like a maze. It took me way longer to get from my place to the house I was going to but that's okay. It was totally worth not having to find a parking spot or worrying about parking enforcement. Even on the street I was on, they were in full force.

I had a girl try to trade me beads (nope, mine were better). I think had they not been around my neck, she might have tried to take them from me. I think as I was walking quickly away from her, she was trying to steal a chair. I heard "Oh hey, a chair, I think I will take it". She was worth getting away from quickly. The parade was a lot of fun and there were some very interesting outfits out and about. All green, so they were appropriate :). My green shirt was boring in comparison. I didn't make it to the official Greenville Block party but I did go to the house of my friend's co-worker. Burgers, hotdogs and other yummy stuff was served. Between that and the beer, I was a bit full! Dawn had to leave early so I actually left with her (2 pm. Yep, I have great stamina!). I am sure I would have been fine walking home, but heck, I had a ride, I was going to take it.

Happy Monday everybody. It's time to go home!