This coming weekend, I am going to be participating in the Urban City Search in Dallas. I can't wait! I hope to have some awesome stories after I recover from running around like a crazy person. Julie and a new friend Sarah Beth are my team members - hope I don't let them down! We have to run -- and I am out of 5K shape (meaning running shape).

I just started a creative writing workshop course offered on-line thru TCU. I just started last week and it looks very interesting. Hopefully I will have some good assignments to post here - don't hold your breath :). But it might give me more inspiration to write the blog more often!

Hi!

Wow, what a whirlwind of 24 hours. I won't go into here but I went from stabby to feeling a lot of love. I like the love part much better.....

So, I am trying to explain to the new boyfriend the Bloggess, Beyonce, and why I am really happy he is around because now I can torment him like she does Victor. I say "torment" in the most loving way, of course :). I haven't been able to show him the "but it isn't towels" post but I am sure when I do, he will just think I am more insane than he already does. Don't care though. My love for her is strong.

Okay, I was actually just checking in to say hi. I've been sick these last few days. I still don't feel 100% but at least the Mucinex is working. I hate coughing. It hurts like heck! I need some more rest so I should probably think about going to bed soon. Later!

Happy Hour

I went to a SEC Happy Hour today in Addison. I can tell you right now, A&M joining the SEC will be good for my social life. My friend Julie (the Hog) already attends the events so I just tagged along. The good nature rivalry will be fun with these people. At least for the first few years, that will be all I have...... sigh.

That is pretty much it for the day. Mom found a Beyonce in CA however this one is way too big to take on the airplane home. Oh well. I just find it wonderful that she was on the look out for me and posted her on FB :).

Zumba today but didn't take it with April Sunshine. Aubrey had the honor of kicking my booty today. All good.

I have an interview Monday so I will update after that.

"Downton Abbey" is just that awesome. Watch it. I need to find season 2 and stat!!! It just ended so I might have to watch them on-line. I never really thought I like it as much as I did -- I wasn't too into Masterpiece Theater. But it was well done, the costumes left me engrossed and there was some good acting.

Today has been gorgeous! I have already been outside on the patio with a margarita. I got some reading in. Time to enjoy it some more!

Quick Update

Since my last post, I had a big birthday. Turned the big 4-0. Now, I am not exactly where I thought I would be at age 40, however I do know that I am where I need to be. That makes no sense and no, I haven't been drinking (Diet Coke doesn't count :)). The universe is readjusting itself and I just have to let it. I don't really have anything else philosophical to write. I am just looking forward to moving ahead in life. This past week I got a job lead and just now got a call from her. So that is pretty cool. It's local and would be for a Trainer/Applications Specialist. Kind of up my ally :).

Belly Dancing has been fun. I haven't been able to do Zumba in a few weeks due to car issues. I plan to hit that tomorrow! I miss April Sunshine and her trying to kill me. I am still trying to get the feel for Ft Worth but the good news is that I have the feel for my new area. I even ventured out to the Kohl's today (no, it really isn't that far from the house....I could have ventured there sooner......). It has just been so pretty, I haven't wanted to stay inside!!! However I have just gotten sucked into Netflix. So here I will sit for a bit. People keep raving about "Downton Abbey" so I am going to check out the first episode. We shall see......

Later!

Chickens, Zumba and other fun stuff

***April Sunshine tried to kill me. With Zumba. And I am going back for more next week. Love it.

***Conversation with Jen on the way to Central Market tonight:

Me: Oh a chicken! Man, why would they leave a chicken out where people like me could grab it?

Jen: Where do you plan on keeping this chicken??

Me: Oh, it's a smaller chicken. Not the big one!

Jen: **wheels turning in her head on how the heck she is going to tell me there will be no chicken brought to the house**

Me: Yeah, I've been looking for a Beyonce forever!!!

We still giggle over the fact that she thought I was trying to figure out how to bring a live chicken to the house.... No, I don't want a live chicken. As it is, we are already outnumbered in the house by felines! And I am going back tomorrow to see if it really was the metal chicken I have been looking for.........

**I saw the meteor tonight however had no idea what it was -- it was a beautiful ball of fire across the sky. There was a sonic boom involved with the fire ball too but we didn't feel that!

Just so it can't be said I haven't updated the blog, I decided to jump in for a quick hello! Today was a pretty good day. My dear friend Dawn is turning 40 tomorrow! (I told her since she goes first, she has to tell me how it is....). Anyway, today I headed to Frisco for some lunch and a quick mani/padi. Her daughter flew into town from NY and it was good to see Jaymee! Tomorrow is her big party and I plan to hit that up in the evening. She is like me and doesn't actually look 40 -- we can embrace our fabulousness because people don't really believe our age :). Anyway, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAWN!!!!

And Zumba rocks. I knew that before but hadn't been to a class in forever. I still feel the pain. But I will keep going back. It was like a big dance party at 24 Hour Fitness! My next "clean eating" meal will be next week - I found a recipe that looks wonderful for Thai Shrimp. I love shrimp so I look forward to making this creation :).

That is all! Everyone have a wonderful weekend.

Wow

Man, LSU took a beating. Very glad I didn't bet on that game!!! Way to go Alabama.

And I am researching recipes to make for "clean-eating". I have a friend who has gotten into it and she is actually making it seem interesting. I know it is better for me so I am going to give it a try. At least for a few meals a week. The good this is that I live with the test testers. And they are full and willing participants! I will document some of my experiments :).

I'm Back

I moved and now live in Ft Worth. After a month of trying to get myself acclimated and back to normal, I feel a lot better! Fuzzy pretty much took to our new home in Sir Fuzzy Butt style. He embraced it and pretty much took over..... Sierra was a bit slower however she is now exploring more and making herself vocal. She can talk up a storm when she wants to express herself. I slowed on the job searching front (end of the year was very slow for all job seekers, I imagine), however now I am going to hit it hard. I hope to have some stories of interviews to post on this blog...... we shall see!

On Friday I headed out to Addison to meet some friends for the Arkansas vs Kansas State game. Since they are future SEC sisters (they are Hogs and A&M is hitting the SEC in July) I was rooting for Arkansas. And they won! So good for the Hogs. Not that I really care who wins the BCS championship game tonight, but I think I am rooting a bit more for LSU. I have no idea what I will do when football season is over. I am so sad I don't get to see the Aggies until Sept! :( But my Hog friends did express interest in doing a road trip to Aggieland when Arkansas plays A&M in the fall. I haven't been back for a game in years so that would be extra awesome!!!

I logged in, all ready to share my 3 AM wisdom with the world and now I am blanking out. I think I might just be ready to try to go back to sleep. I spent about an hour doing some packing and then another 30 minutes laughing at Twitter posts from the Bloggess (which also reminded me to put "find metal chicken" back on my to do list!!!).

So, never mind, I have nothing witty, funny or profound to say. Just back to sleep I go. I did have an interview today and I liked the company, the women I interviewed with and the job would be a challenge. I should hopefully hear something Monday. It's a contract to hire job but hey, it is a foot in the door. I'm just tired of job searching!

Later!!!

Lost my mind

Maybe? It is 50 degrees outside and I am now addicted to Peppermint Ice Cream. I have my sweatshirt over my hands. Still eating it. (I'm done now. But it was dang good.).

Yep, that is my exciting news for the day :). I did babysit the twins today. They were awesome, as usual. Luca was a bit clingy but that is all good.

Happy hump day!

PS

The Bloggess (aka: my newest girl crush) has a book coming out... in April 2012....... I am beyond excited. Because you know it will be awesome. So, now I can count down to something great. (Christmas will be lame this year, just warning you now. I will try, but I can't promise anything.). Jen Lancaster has a book coming out soon too -- not sure when that will be released, but hopefully soon!

November - Woo hoo

Yep, I am still here. The Johnny Sides Rookie of the Year event is tonight and I am looking forward to it. Hopefully I can also hobnob some and get some job leads :). A friend let me borrow a dress so I didn't have that expense - which was awesome. It was just perfect how it worked out.

I have nothing that new to report. Babysat the twins (they are so great! Love them. Such a hard day when I have to just sit there and make faces with the babies. ), shredded some old stuff I had hanging out in my file cabinets (exciting, I know), and got some boxes from a gal who just moved. That was pretty cool - I got a good haul from her. I need to go get some packing tape but I should be good to get started packing. I always wait until the last moment. The goal is to NOT do that this time.

So, my absolute new addiction is "American Horror Story" on FX. This show is so completely freaky. Don't watch it before you go to sleep. It leads to some weird dreams. I am still into "Walking Dead". "Happy Endings" and a new series "Once Upon A Time" (great show!!!). But AHS is just so......... freaky. I can't even describe it. Most people I talk to who watch it have the same reaction!!!! (Yeah, kind of noticed the range of tv shows I am watching this season........).

Everyone have a wonderful weekend! A&M plays OU this afternoon - so my mood at the event will depend on the end result of my team. :). Here's hoping I will be very happy. And why is it that I am craving ice cream and it is cold outside??

A Happy Birthday Wish

Happy Birthday to my little brother (who isn't so little anymore!) :).

What Up.......?

So changes abound in my life. I still haven't completely freaked the heck out but that might come. I think the fact that I have some very viable options helps me from just flipping out and hiding in my bed.

My lease is up at the end of November and in order to save money and be safe and secure, my wonderful friends Jen and David offered for me to live with them. They have a big house and lots of space. The kitties are welcome and that is good too. So, I took them up on it (after several "Are you SURE???"). I have to live in Ft Worth, but I think I can deal :). I am so grateful for the offer and the fact I have such wonderful friends who even thought of allowing me to do this. It takes so much more stress off. They rock and I love them for it.

Thanksgiving is coming up and I was actually wondering how it was going to work this year. You should know Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and I love making the menus and cooking. Well since I will be packed up this year, we are just going to do it at Mom and Dad's. The offer is: Mom gets all the stuff for dishes, I cook all day and she gets to watch football. Works for me! I will be a little sad because Simon LOVED this time of year too. You could tell even though he was a cat and couldn't actually tell me. He loved Thanksgiving too. I will miss him a bit more on that day. I know it seems silly to some people but I know the truth :).

Okay, that is it for now. I am still alive and still kicking. I am so grateful for all my friends, family and those who are just kind. I feel the universe is trying to correct itself and I just would like it to do it quickly.

Week Wrap-up

My first week of unemployment has actually been a busy one. I got a lot done and visited with some girlfriends I don't get to see a lot. And yes, it is almost 4 AM on Saturday. I woke up around 3 and probably need to get back to sleep for a little bit more!

First things first though. I had an interview today for an open ended contract job with a great company. I think it went well and should hear something on Monday or Tuesday. At least what the next step will be in the process. Good thing too because my car had to have engine thermastat issues this week. Awesome. That is all fixed - just very annoying timing.

Sir FB got his e-collar off Thursday and boy is he a happy cat. He is now saving me from the evil pony tail holder. Good kitty :). His paw looks great and I am just relieved it is over. I know he is too. Although he was very cute in his pouting ways.

Thursday I went to the zoo with some friends and their kids (4 babies - one set of twins , 4 adults. One of us went to the bathroom and we were out numbered!!!). I love the zoo and I was able to spend some time with some great ladies. It was all good. And the ticket was only $1 from Google offers! So that saved me $11 right there! Wednesday, I actually just had the twins while their mom went and ran some errands. I survived and even had fun . They are very good kids though so it wasn't a surprise. However I really admire her because after 3 hours, I was very tired :). I was happy to come home and take a nap. At 14 months old, they are very mobile and very much into everything!

Time to try to get a bit more sleep. Sierra has gone to sleep in the other room because I have disturbed her and Sir FB has found another hair thing to attack. And I wonder why they all end up under my bed :).

Later!

Guess who is free now!

Aggie Band Picture

Last weekend, I went to the A&M/Arkansas game. No comment on our little 2nd half meltdown (I pouted as much as Sir FB did though). Here is a picture from half-time. The Aggie Band!!! Dang, it was so good to see them live. Love, love, love!!!!!! This was one thing that day that filled me with pride :). By the way, the Arkansas band was good however their halftime show theme was "Songs from Cartoons". Okay...................

Last Day

I'm free!!!!!!!!!!!! I will post later on that subject. In the meantime, I am posting another picture :). Soon, we will be doing the "I am free" dance for Sir Fuzzy Butt. At least his bandage is off :). The cone will be about another week. I have to put medicine on his paw for a few more days.

He isn't too mad at me right now though -- he is currently laying on my chest, purring away. I think he knows the end is near.

And I think these pictures are going to be sent to Cuteoverload. I think others should enjoy the cuteness of Sir FB!

Pictures

This one makes me laugh. I think she looks like she is about the just take one swipe at his head. Like "would anybody notice??"












I just love this picture of Sierra. She looks so innocent.

TGIF

I got a new camera from Mom and Dad. Since my only subjects are four legged and furry, expect a lot of Sierra and Sir Fuzzy Butt shots. At least until I get to an event with humans. :) That might be next weekend when I go to the A&M/Arkansas game at Jerry World. Can't wait! That will be my one big hurrah into unemployment. I won't be able to do to much big stuff. I will get good at finding cheap dates and things to do with friends. And that might just be a good blog subject. Hmmm, might be onto something :).

Okay time to go to sleep! Everyone have a wonderful weekend!

New line used on me Saturday night (by a fellow Aggie, btw). I was at Stan's Blue Note watching the A&M game (whoop!) and he was standing next to me ordering a drink. He looked up at the tv and said "You must be enchanting because I missed a touchdown". Cute. And yes, I am enchanting :). (I missed the score too so he must have been fairly entertaining..........).

I have an interview tomorrow with a recruiter (no particular job in mind) and then I got a call today from another recruiter. With 2 weeks to go until I go on unemployment, these are good things! I will keep you updated. I actually have a feeling it will all fall into place at the last minute. Story of my life!!!!

Have a wonderful Monday!

Update

Sir Fuzzy Butt is doing well. His paw is healing up nicely and Friday might be his last day to wear the bandage. We went to the vet today and then he has an appointment on Friday morning. He still pouts - I never have seen a cat pout so much. Even the vet is amazed at how much he pouts! He certainly knows how to play pitiful. However I am so happy he is doing better.

Still no job. If I had interview stories, I'd share. Such is life.

I just got back from a DJCC committee meeting. I decided that since I would have some free time after Sept 30, I'd better get on a volunteer event that would not only help me professionally, but keep me busy! Johnny Sides Rookie of the Year is an amazing event that celebrates the Dallas Police Department and raises money for the Assist the Officer Foundation. I actually agreed to take over co-chair duties if one of the gals is sent in the field for work. I am not sure if I want her to go or stay!!! :) No matter what, I am excited to be involved!

Happy Tuesday and later!!!

Another pic before I forget

I like this picture because if you are going to pout, might as well pout in a comfy place.

Woeful Kitty is Woeful

This was right after he got home from the vet last week. Poor, poor kitty!

I went to see him today and he is doing very well. I get to bring him home on Tuesday. He was not happy with the vet staff (understandable since they were trying to give him his medicine) but he was very happy to see me. He was very cuddly!

And I am awake, why??

I want to find my own homicidal monkey so I can take it to work, put it on my desk and really make them think I have lost my mind. Because really, I only have less than a month in the office. Might as well make it fun. (Again, I love The Bloggess).

http://thebloggess.com/2011/07/would-you-like-to-buy-a-monkey/

Yep it is just under 6 AM and I am awake. I would try to go back to sleep however I have to go to the vet at 8 to visit Sir Fuzzy Butt, so I will just take a nap this afternoon. I figure I can be a bit productive before I head out.

Oh, and why is Sir Fuzzy Butt at the vet? You might be asking this since he came home last Friday all ticked off because he had a bandage on his leg and an e-collar he was refusing to wear. Poor little guy had a complication with surgery and is now resting after another surgery! He had a reaction to the subcutaneous sutures and it cut of blood flow. I really was scared I broke the poor cat (actually I really was very upset because I think that it is all my fault for not taking him back sooner and that he would lose a foot.) But even David pointed out that he saw the foot on Monday night and he never thought for one minute that there was an issue. Long story short, he is about 80% better but he had to stay so the vet techs could monitor him and change bandages. And get this, Sierra actually misses him! She acts like she hates him when he is around, but yeah, I know the truth now. She was even waiting at the door to see if I brought him home last night. She seems to be okay with the explanation that he will be home soon. At least as okay as a cat can be......

Everyone have a great Saturday. It is the start of College Football season so I am beyond excited! I just read about the first big upset (really, Baylor over TCU!). That score looked like it would have given me a heart attack if I had been a fan for either team. A&M doesn't play until Sunday, so I have to "patiently" wait............

Grrr...

I woke up with a serious allergy attack. My eyes were pretty much swollen shut. So annoying. So, yes, I called in sick. I feel a whole lot better now but still have the sniffles. I can't say that I am any worse than poor little Sir Fuzzy Butt. He is currently whining because he is wearing an e-collar. I was finally smart enough to figure out how to get it on him without him taking it off! I have pics on the phone that I need to download and put on here. Poor little man is just so over it. But it looks like the entire tumor is gone so that is good news. We go back on Thursday to check his stitches.

Everyone have a great Tuesday!

Happy Endings DVD!

I never thought an email from Amazon would give me so much joy at 5 AM! The Happy Endings first season is out on DVD on Sept 20. And for those one or two who don't know, that was my favorite new show in a very long time. I don't think there are any gift giving holidays between now and Christmas, but if someone wants to make one up and put that on a list for me, I'd love it :). Show is amazing - check it out!

I am not sure why I am wide awake at 5 AM however since the last two days I have barely been able to wake up on time and get out of bed, I am just going to go with it. On that note, the reason I am on line is to do some job researching/applying. So, I had better get to it! Everyone have a wonderful day! I will today to be good, so it shall be :).

Short Wrap Up

I went to see "Crazy, Stupid, Love" today and it was so good! Loved it. I adore Emma Stone and she was just adorable in this movie. We all know I love Steve Carell and he was great. I recommend it - it was definitely a great Sunday movie. And it was free, which is always good :). I sometimes get passes to Studio Movie Grill so I grabbed my friend Steve and we went to see it.

The weekend was good. I spent some time with Candice yesterday, terrorizing -in a good way, of course -Homegoods (love that store) and then getting a mani/pedi. I know I need to watch spending however I figure I do need some nice fingers and toes in interviews for a good impression. Narly bitten fingers aren't impressive. Gotta be presentable :). My last thing needed is a brow wax and I will get that taken care of soon.

Okay, while there is more to say, I really just feel like curling into bed with a book. Right now, it is Laura Dave's "The Divorce Party". I will let you know how it is. I will say, her novel "The First Husband" was WONDERFUL! I can't recommend it enough.

Have a wonderful Sunday night and I will appear again later :).

Woot!

Back from Vegas! AWESOME. So in love with that city. :). Stories to follow. Just wanted people to know I am back, safe and sound. And I have a 2nd interview on Thursday.

Just checking in and I will chat later!!!!!!!

Best Day Ever! (Until I land in Vegas)

My interview went amazingly well. I was so nervous before hand. Like nauseous, I want to throw up nervous. While talking to one of my co-workers, we pretty much figured out the nerves were due to the fact that this was the first interview in 5 years, A LOT has changed and that I really was just over thinking it. Once you get to a certain point, you need to sit back, relax and trust you are as awesome as you think you are. The hiring manager was also looking for more "soft skills', fit for the organization than actual HR skill sets. Now, I have a great personality but my great personality had to mesh with his great personality. Chemistry, culture fit, energy, all that fun stuff. He must have liked me because I have a second interview being scheduled next week. Whoot whoot!!! This is truly a growth position, it is mine to develop, to run, to make people want to come work there. I need to do some research on Zappos and Southwest, because these are two companies that he wants to model in terms of having a company that people want to come work for. And they are on the way. And as long as I don't doubt myself, I can go with them. I have been small for so long -- I KNOW I need to be big. I can't be afraid to be big. Because that is not what the universe wants for me. I have now noticed I am getting weirdly mystical so I will stop! :)

Everyone have a great weekend!!! I know I will ;).

Send good vibes

I have an interview tomorrow!!!! I will spill more details tomorrow. Just keep the happy vibes going. :) I just had to buy a new suit so I went to Ann Taylor. I am not sure why she gave me a "family and friends" discount (probably because I told her I was getting the suit for an interview) but I only spent $200 for the outfit (earrings included! I did have a gift card. But still!!!). I need the interview practice since it has been 5 years. The fact it has been 5 years in a stagnant environment is a subject for another blog.....

On another note -- VEGAS Saturday :). That is really all I am going to say now. Because I am very, very, very excited to be going. And I get obnoxiously happy about it!

Okay, going to prep some more for my interview. 1:00 -- keep the thoughts coming.

I was wide awake at 2:30 this morning. It isn't really surprising since I messed up my sleeping patterns on Sunday. So, instead of just lying in bed, wishing in my head time would go quickly, I got up and made some coffee. I think I might just get some work on the job search done. Either that, or by 3:30 AM, I will be back asleep and I then I will run late to work. Good intentions, huh........... :). I am meeting with the Vegas ladies after work today so I am looking forward to that. This will be the time to get our game plan going on possible shows, etc. Fun, fun!

I hope everyone is happily asleep, at least for a few more hours. Ping me at noon to make sure I am still coherent and functioning at work!

Babies turning one!

My friend Regan's twins turn one on Aug 2 and so she and her husband had their party this weekend. It was a really fun party (even had beer for the adults). The girls are insanely cute and I got to see some friends I hadn't had a chance to see in awhile. I got to cuddle another friend's 7 month old daughter and it just made for a nice day. She came to me -- I only had to steal her once.

I was over-thinking their gift though. I really wanted to get them bows (well, headbands with big ol bows on them because they don't really have hair :)). Gymboree did not have the headband bows I wanted - so I abandoned to big bow idea. So, I went to Babies R Us. And because I had no idea what to get them, I spent about 30 minutes roaming. Babies are a lot easier to buy for when you are buying gifts pre-birth :) (for the baby shower, that is....). I just wanted to make sure it was a good gift AND something they didn't already have. By the way, I got them a Leap Frog toy (which I had seen at Katie and Kenneth's house and it actually got used by the girls) and a Baby Einstein video. The cashier at Babies R Us tried to get me to sign up for their rewards program. I told her I would probably never come back to the store (no offense to them - they were very helpful. Want to make that very clear!!!). I need to just stick with Target to get my presents for little ones.

Oh, and some kid stole my cake. Seriously kid???? I put it down to take a pic of the girls with cake on their face. He grabbed it and started eating. Well, okay. I was nice and didn't snatch it back. Figured that just really wouldn't be adult of me :). And it really made for a funny story. At least it wasn't my beer................... :)>.

Okay, that was my Saturday. Tomorrow I really need to hit the treadmill to burn all that cake (and other yummy food they had!).

Next weekend is Vegas!!! Can't wait!

The Metal Chicken

I need to find one. And I will name it Beyonce. And I will be furiously happy. To understand any of this, head over to my new favorite obsession, www.thebloggess.com. She talks about the zombie Apocalypse (my friends think I am crazy when I do!), and she loves her cats. And she is fun, and funny and compassionate. I love her (in the girl crush, I've never met her, kind of way :)).

As I watch Hoarders, I realize I need to find a job soon. Most of these hoarders lose their jobs and the house go to sh**. Okay, yes, there are other factors, but yeah, I am not going to become one. If anything, my apartment will be super clean. So far, I have been submitting 2 to 3 resumes a day, along with contacting referrels. I have a meeting on Thursday with someone who will be able to target me to his network of people. It has been an interesting 2 weeks and I am proud to say I have only had 2 panic attacks. I think that is actually pretty good considering the economic doomsday being announced on the news!!!! My sleep is a little off, but I can live with that. I am functioning and getting in front of the right people. Onward and upward.

I hope everyone is having a good week so far. This is going to be a slow week. Tuesday crawled. But I take the week one day at a time and add a bit of laughter and love to each of these days. That is my way to stay positive because I have to. No reason to panic just yet :). And I know others have it a lot worse than I do. I have a support system that will make sure I have what I need, when I need it.

Later!

Well, crude.....

Just when you think life is just going along, hunky dory and fairly happy, the universe decides to throw a curve ball. But of course, why not? Last week I found out that due to budget cuts, my contract with OSHA will not be renewed. I have no job as of Sept 30. Awesome. I have to admit, it wasn't my favorite place and it is time to move on, however I wanted it on my OWN terms and with some control. Now, I do have 2 months and so I have some control over the job search and if I find something before the end of the fiscal year, I can certainly leave. And trust me, I am starting to shake that networking tree to find some leads so I can leave sooner than later. I am trying to remain positive and it will all work out in the end. When a door closes, a window opens. I just want the window to appear now.......... (patience has never been a strong attribute :)). So now I can have some interview great stories for the blog.

So, I hope everyone is having a wonderful week!

I've been to Seattle and NYC in the course of one week. Man, I was seriously jet lagged! I was in Seattle for work and LOVED it. It was about 65 degrees and I didn't really want to come home to Dallas. NY was fun -- I made it to the Central Park zoo for the first time. It was a bit smaller than I thought it would be but it was still very cool. The penguins were fun to watch. I finally got back to Dallas for a full 24 hours yesterday and went back to the office for the first time in a week. That was a bit hard. I didn't want to get out of bed! In one month, I am headed to Vegas -- can't wait! It will be my first time to go and I am looking forward to it. 4 days of girl time :). Woo hoo.

That is what is happening with me! This is short but I am still a bit tired and probably will go read and go to bed early. "Happy Endings" is on tonight and I love that show so I will be watching that. Of course, it is in repeats and I have seen them many, many times. And I still laugh. Good stuff :).

Everyone have a great Wednesday night :).

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!