And more change

Well, just when I thought I was going to get to stay put just a bit, things change.  Oh so shocking!  It seems I should always keep expectations low because when I don't, when I have them all up and huge, I get disappointed and full of resentment.  That is another topic for another blog post but rest assured I am over the resentment and large expectations. My days are full of positive energy and great thoughts. Now, great thoughts don't equal great expectations.  They equal, in my mind, openness to what the Universe has to offer.  So, now I will just sit back (well, put forth the effort I need to put forth) and let the Universe take care of the rest. That being said, any job leads would be great :).

Moved!

Stuff is here, just not unpacked.  But baby steps!!!  Love it :).

Moving!

In a week and a half, I move. I am sooooo excited.  Life is getting back to semi-normal :).  I LOVE the floor plan and the cats will enjoy having their own cat room (aka: the office).  And Jimmy is going to help me turn a shelf into a Tardis :).  I will post pictures once that happens.

Shameless promotion!!! Pure Romance by Kimberly is offering a March Special. Book a party (and keep your original day), and earn an extra 25% off your order.  This is in addition to the already awesome Hostess perks offered.  Book now - spaces are filling up!!  If you can't hold a party in the month of March but would like to order some products, just go to my website:  www.kimberlywhitford.pureromance.com.  Same fabulous products, delivered directly to you.  :)

Everyone have a fabulous week!!!

You know your man really loves you when he doesn't mock your singing along to the Doctor Who theme song (well, humming along. It has no words!!!).  I needed my Doctor Who fix. I am so excited - I will have cable when Doctor Who premieres in March!!!  Warning you now - no calls or texts. I won't answer. I will even be ignoring Jimmy. He's already prepared for this.

It's birthday week!  I don't feel like I am turning 41.  Or, celebrating the 11th anniversary of my 29th birthday :).  I will go with that. I do feel pretty grown up in the fact that I discussed Life Insurance with my insurance agent on Saturday.  Dang, what a grown up decision :)

Nothing too new to report these days.  I have Friday off and am really looking forward to that. For some reason I thought today was Wednesday. No idea why.  Maybe because it is my short week. Who knows. I even kept looking at the wrong date on the menu in the cafeteria.  I was pretty scattered though -- running around in 3 inch heals all day will wear you out!

In one week I celebrate a birthday, in 3 weeks I move (yay!!!) and start a new scope in my consulting job. I will be working with e-Learning and LMS.  I am so excited to learn some new skills and utilize old skills I used in past jobs.  And it extends my consultant agreement about 6 more months :).  That is always a good thing. Especially since I am moving to a new place!!!  I am so excited about my new apartment and look forward to decorating and making this new space my home. And I know Sierra and Fuzzy will like finally being the only 2 critters in the place (until I get my hedgehog, but that is a little bit in the future -- and a whole other story.).  My two kitties have been fabulous over the last year or so. And pretty adaptable. Sierra had a brief moment were she peed outside the litter box, but a quick trip to the vet put a stop to that.  Fuzzy is just ornery.  But that's what makes him Sir Fuzzy Butt.

Tomorrow Jimmy and I celebrate our 10 monthiversary :).  Tonight was sushi night (so yummy!  It had been a while since we had sushi).  I see this weekend being very low key and chill.  And no matter what the forecast for rain is, I have to get my car washed.  Seriously, no amount of rain will wash the crap off my car. It needs help. I am sure traveling down the construction zone that is 820 doesn't help at all.  But it will all be taken care of tomorrow.  Or Sunday. Depends on if I want to get out of bed tomorrow :).

Everyone have a great weekend!!!!

One Week Into the New Year

I've made it so far into 2013.  The best thing so far is that A&M is now #5 in the nation for College Football. Man, I am going to miss College Football.  I will have to pout until September.  This season went beyond my wildest thoughts for our team.  And I loved every minute of it.  Our switch the SEC was the best thing ever (and I will admit, I was concerned!).  Can't wait to do this all again!!!

I was just now trying to download some pictures from last weekend's Chinese Lantern Festival but they came out sideways and random.  I will have to work on that because there are some very cute shots. The Chinese Lantern Festival was pretty cool and way more than I expected.  It was held at Fair Park and was just beautiful. They had Longhorns and Dinosaurs that moved.  It was all super amazing and took a lot of talent.  If I can figure out how to get the pics from my cell to my computer and looking nice, I will post.

I found an apartment and will be moving March 1 (if all goes according to my plan).  I love this place and can't wait to move in. It will also be nice to stay someplace for at least a year!!!  I am in the process of submitting my paperwork and all that fun stuff.  And since I am an independent consultant, my income proof is a little weird.  I don't have check stubs to show net and gross.  She said I can just submit a bank statement (luckily it can be filtered to just show deposits). That is cool by me!  The fun part will be hitting Walmart and Target to get some new stuff for the place!

Okay, that is about it.  Nothing too exciting but nothing to complain about.  :).  2013 is still shaping up to be an awesome year.  Because I say so!!!

And Christmas is over!

I like to think I had a good holiday spirit going this year.  It was a lot better than last year -- tree was up, lights were out, we even went driving around looking at Christmas lights (I was trapped in a car with Jimmy mangling Christmas Carols.).We even got pictures of the cats with antlers and Fuzzy with a Santa hat (pretty sure they are still plotting revenge).

Instead of killing myself and my very slim bank account, I decided to do homemade gifts this year. For the mothers (mine and Jimmy's), I made sugar scrubs.  Not a hard thing to actually make, but not many people think to pamper the skin with a sugar scrub.  With my Mom, it is always easy to get her a gift. I just think of what I would want.  And this year, if I was to get a homemade gift, I would want something to make me soft and smell good :).  Dad's homemade gift was fudge.  Okay, my fudge NEVER hardens. No matter when I make it or how closely I follow that silly recipe, it is just a gooey chocolate blob. Not that gooey chocolate blobs are bad. It is chocolate -  that is never bad :).

But I am glad Christmas is over and the year is coming to an end. It's been rough but I've learned a lot and gained some great knowledge for the future.  I also nabbed my future husband, so it wasn't all bad :).  Over the next few days, I am going to make some goals for 2013. I am currently learning the ins and outs of my own Pure Romance business and that promises to have a lot of potential in 2013.  I am looking forward to where it will take me.  I am all about any organization that teaches and promotes the empowerment and education of women. My sponsor is fabulous and she will be there as much or as little as I need her.  I told her I will need her a lot in the beginning!  The first few steps will be to get those initial parties booked and the products learned.  Love it!!!  Some goals I will share, others I might just keep for myself.  But I know that 2013 will be bigger and brighter.

Monday!

I felt like Grumpy Cat today. Do you like the snow flurries? No.  That was my whole day :).  I hate being cold, that is all. But since I am inside all day, I can deal.  It wasn't that bad a day otherwise. Nothing too note worthy to mention. I did get a new cookie recipe today.  Jimmy just proclaimed them "awful" (they aren't - he was kidding.  They are freaking yummy!).

Here it is:
beat the ever living heck out of Oreos (place in a bag first). Mix this Oreo mix with Cream Cheese.  Roll that into little balls and put those in the fridge to harden a bit.  Once that occurs, dip these balls of awesomeness in chocolate (my co-worker suggested Ghiradelli). Put those back in the fridge to harden those up.  See, super easy and very yummy. I may or may not have had 4 or 5. I lost count.  Totally worth the calories.

That is it for the night. Just going to get in the habit of updating this more often than I had been!!!

Later!

Welp, I know it's been too long

I have spotty Internet at my apartment so I don't always think to come online to post to my blog!  But I am still alive and kicking.  And doing pretty well.

This past weekend was a great one. Johnny Manziel won the Heisman (WHOOP!!!), got to see pictures of my friend's new born baby boy (that made me very happy), learned a secret that I can't tell but it made me very happy as well.  And I got some laundry and cleaning done.  All in between copious amount of napping. Loved the naps.  Fuzzy and Sierra loved nap time too!

Friday I attended my friend's 4th Annual Cookie Exchange.  While Jimmy wasn't too thrilled he couldn't attend (girl's only party!), he did get to eat the results and that made him happy. I forgot the recipes though - I might need Sandy to mail those to me.  There were some yummy treats.  I did Christmas Tree shaped rice crispy treats.  They were supposed to be green, however the green gel food coloring did not take in the marshmallows.  Not sure if I just used the wrong kind or not enough. They were still yummy and still looked like trees once the M&M decorations and almond bark tinsel were added.  (Yes, I got the idea from Pinterest.) And really, rice crispy treats in any form are freaking yummy!

Jimmy got the Christmas lights up on my apartment balcony last night and they look pretty good.  I will have to get a picture and post here.  It is nothing compared to my next door neighbor though. She has gone all out and it looks fabulous!  I had to get some lights up just so I wouldn't be the "Grinch next door" :). With the weather FINALLY turning, I am getting more in the Christmas spirit.    I don't really like cold weather but I really don't like 80 degree weather and the radio playing let it snow.  Um, no.  (I sound like Grumpy Cat there.  Love Grumpy Cat.  Although anyone who knows me knows that fact now :)).

PS - I love that Starbucks has free wifi.  Blogging and Pumpkin Spice Lattes.  Always a good combo.  And yes, with all the napping and caffeine this weekend, I will still be able to go to sleep at a reasonable hour this tonight.

Sunday Funday

Actually, it is Sunday Chill day.  I am okay with that.  Me and the critters are going to nap the day away.  It was a  busy weekend, so I really don't feel too bad.  The new job gets every other Friday off.  This was our 3 day weekend.  By Sunday, it just feels very weird!!!  But a good weird.  I really like it :).  In November, we actually will only work one Friday.  Between the already scheduled Friday's off and the Thanksgiving Holiday, that leaves only the 9th.  It will be a busy month though.  They start Open Enrollment soon.  And for someone who never had any interest in specializing in Benefits, I am now full speed ahead.  See, you never know where the world where take you!!!  It's been an interesting journey, to say the least, this year.  And it is very weird that it is already November.  But time flies when you are learning life lessons :).

The fun news is that Jimmy finally comes home the week of Thanksgiving   His job is winding down and I will get him back for the holidays.  So happy. I LOVE Thanksgiving and this year will be a best one ever :).  And  we got tickets to go see A&M play Missouri the weekend after (Nov 24).  We are going to road trip with my Aggie friend Adrienne.  I love that it had been about 10 years since I had made it back to Aggieland and this year, I will have gone twice!  It is still a magical place and even though it has changed (A LOT!!!), the spirit hasn't.  That spirit is still the same from when I started in 1990.

And speaking of the Aggies. Holy Toledo  I never expected this type of beginning in the SEC.  I admit, I was scared when we announced we were going over. I never imagined this type of season, this type of coaching or Johnny Football.  But I LOVE it!!!!  I would have been proud either way, but I am truly blown away by this team.  SO HAPPY!!!!  I thought Mississippi State was going to give us fits yesterday.  Yeah, why do I even question it anymore.  The way we are going, A&M could possibly upset Alabama next weekend.  I really won't doubt that will happen anymore!!!  So, Gig 'Em!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, time to wrap up.  Everyone have a great Sudnay!!!

So, in addition to my Pinterest addiction, I now have a Doctor Who addiction.  Seriously, love that show.  I am not sure why I just now started watching it, but I did.  I just left my favorite Doctor and now have to get used to Number 11.  It will take a lot - I loved Doctor Number 10.  And man, trying to explain this love of Doctor Who to my new honey is pretty funny. He just smiles and nods, as he should. :).

PS - totally doing a Tardis Christmas tree this year.  Saw it on Pinterest (seriously, I have a problem!!!)

The Color Orange

In my new temp gig, we are doing Open Enrollment for 1000+ people.  Manually.  Meaning paper forms.  The system wasn't set up this year and well, you gotta do what you gotta do. It ended yesterday so I am now flooded with Orange forms (the color that was chosen, for some reason).  It is a pain in the booty, that is for sure, but it has to be done and there is no way around it.  However one particular person, we shall call Sunshine, will not stop complaining.  And she complains and complains. Total negative Nancy.  I've dealt with too many of those types in my past. I truly hope my happiness and positive attitude annoys her.  Because the more she complains, the perkier I get.  I spent 7 months dealing with whiny, complaining drunk people at the bar -- I can totally deal with her. She is a piece of cake compared to Twila (some of you have heard of Twila. You know what I mean when I say that!).  I am happy to be working.  The woman should be grateful she has manual forms to process!!!  But back to Orange.  I really never want to see that color again.  Which really isn't good since Fuzzy is all orange fluff.  But, you know what, he is the best ball of orange fluffiness the world has to offer!!!

The week is almost over!  I am definitely looking forward to the weekend. It is amazing the appreciation you get for Saturday and Sunday when you have a "normal" job.  Before those were just two more days (and I actually had to work them) but now I am off work when my friends are and that just adds to the fun!

I am trying to go through old magazines.  I have been doing this for about 2 weeks and it hasn't gotten done yet.  I really just want to go to bed :).  Sweet dreams all!  

I have a Beyonce!!

Okay, I got  Beyonce a week ago, but thanks to Mom and Dad, I have one now!!!  I have a picture, I will download later.  She isn't 5 feet tall like the original. I don't need a 5 foot chicken.  But she is mine and happily hanging out in my room.  (For those of you confused souls, Beyonce is a metal chicken that reminds me to do silly things and be happy, not the fabulous singer.  I doubt she'd want to hang out in my room.  Although she might enjoy Fuzzy's antics...)

Speaking on rooms, I moved about 2 weeks ago. I love Jen and David for opening their home to me during my time of need, but I needed to give them their guest room back :). (Thank you, thank you, a million times thank you!!!!!)  I moved to Euless and now live with a friend.  This is short term and I expect to be fully on my feet by year's end.  And I will spend New Year's Eve with a special someone... and yes, he does exist and I have already met him :).  His name is Jimmy and he is pretty much the most awesome man on the planet.  He doesn't know this blog exists, so I will keep talking about him.  He can't stop me!  Ha ha.  Like he would, I only say nice things. But back to the new apartment.  It isn't exactly home yet, however I think that is because this is just a "half way house" for me right now. Me and the kitties are settling in nicely and I am trying to spruce it up (I live with a guy- not Jimmy, he lives out of town for the time being --  and well, it looked like a guy lived here!).  Once I get that place I will stay, I will make it a lot homier and will go crazy at Home Goods (although, don't think I haven't made several trips there already. I do love that store.).

My friend Sandy had her Bridal Shower yesterday. It was a fabulous event -- small enough where everyone got to visit but a nice turn out for her.  The hostess had a candy bar set up (I was digging the gummy bears) and I am still enjoying that (she sent home parts of the candy bar with the attendees!!!).  I was happy she had such a wonderful event.  She is a dear friend and I can't wait for the wedding in Oct!!!

Okay, that is enough rambling for now. I am finally getting tired.  Need to get some sleep! Now that I am happier, I promise to keep updating more often. :) Depression is a bitch and well, I just didn't feel like sharing anything during the past few months.....  But I am back.  Onward and upward!

2 hours for crepes.... don't mind if I do.....

Saturday night, I went to Bastille on Bishop. It was loads of fun and I got to hang out with a couple of friends I rarely see.  One is a fellow Aggie, so I will probably see her more come football season (come on, get here already!!!!!!).  We had a great time catching up and waiting for crepes.  The crepe line took 2.5 hours to get through.  Seriously people!!!  Pretty much, after the first hour, we were not giving up. It was our mission to get crepes.  Yes, we could have left the line, but dang it, what a girl won't do for Nutella.... :).  Also, if there had been more going on, we probably would have abandoned ship. But we were having fun. 

So, here is us, in line for crepes.

We smile because Nutella is at the end of the line!

Grrrr.........

I didn't get that job.  It really didn't help my mood any but that just means there is something even better out there for me.  That is the update.  I just feel like I am on the edge of something and it keeps eluding me.  Very frustrating but I will keep trucking along.

Happy Weekend!!!

till Midnight at the Nasher

On Friday, I went to this event with several of my girl friends.  They all live in Dallas and I haven't seen them in awhile.  Til Midnight at the Nasher is a free event held on the 3rd Friday of the month (beginning with this past one).  A Brazilian band played and then they showed the movie "Rio".  The weather was perfect for it and the music was fun. They even sold baskets for picnics and I can tell you, that was a LOT of food!  We were stuffed.

At one point, a group of us went to the Crow Asian Art Exhibit across the street.  They had an Indian culture night, with several demonstrations.  We got to feel the fabric on the Saris, drink some Indian beer and listen to a man play the sitar.  It was all pretty amazing.  I am just really surprised I never made it to the Nasher when I actually lived in Dallas.  Once I finally head that way again, I will make an effort to hit the cultural hotspots of Dallas. In the meantime, I need to hit them here in Ft. Worth. 

I can't say the rest of the weekend was anymore exciting - it wasn't.  I just chilled and played with the house felines.  Got some fresh air today by the pool, although I didn't get too much sun.  The fresh cottonwood flying in my face made for a lovely evening of sneezing and sinus headaches.  I love nature so........

Well, tomorrow should be the day I know whether I got the job or if I will be on the lookout again.  I know I have no control over anything right now (except my anxiety) and I just have to wait to see what door the universe is going to open for me.  Should be interesting either way. 

Update

So now I don't find out until Monday, at the earliest, about the job.  Argh!!!  I hate waiting.  But the good news is I am one of 3.  Pray hard that this is the right place for me to be.  I will pray for more patience.  Because God insists I learn that lesson........ 

In the meantime, here is a picture of Fuzzy being Fuzzy.  

Everything you wanted to know. (or maybe not).......

Please keep the good vibes going. I interviewed on Friday for a job that I'd be perfect for -- and probably won't find out until tomorrow morning if I got it.  I talked to my recruiter today and she said they still are interviewing but had good things to say about me (but of course........). I know what will happen is supposed to happen, but I really want this job. So, hence the need for more good vibes.

Congrats to Jen on her graduation! She walked on Saturday and it was wonderful!!!  I was so proud and know she will go far.  I didn't walk when I got my Master's so it kind of made me wish I had. Is it wrong I want to go get another degree so I can have a chance to walk across the stage again :). Might be a sickness........  The party was fun as well.  Fuzzy was a nut as usual.  A herd of children were in the house and he came out of hiding several times because he loves the attention.  He is not a normal cat............ And I love him for it!

Okay, that is it for now. Hopefully tomorrow I will have some good news!!!

Random

Apparently Sierra did not want to watch "Scorned" anymore. She placed one paw on the remote and the channel changed.  We are now watching Law and Order.....  It made me laugh at the time! 

Happy Saturday night!  Hope everything is well :).

New York

I still love NY, even though I only got this afternoon in the city. We went to the Museum of Modern Art today. Some I loved and some I really didn't think was art. But I guess that is the point of art and the collections. I will download some of pictures when I get home to my computer. The guy in the gift shop totally cracked me up. While I was checking out, he asked if I was a member of the museum. When I said no, he was like "why ". Yeah, I don't live here. He quickly said "oh" and then did a finger gun with "bang bang", like all Texans have guns (okay, maybe you had to be there - and maybe most Texans do have guns........). I was more giggling at the fact the gift shop guy was questioning why I wasn't a member than anything else.

I head back to Dallas tomorrow and so happy I had this tiny break in NY. It is lovely here!

(Half way through the book and it is great so far. :)).

Wee!

April 17 is when the book comes out. I am so excited. I am headed to NYC tomorrow and fully look forward to reading her book on the plane, getting the side eye from giggling too hard.

I am watching a movie called Legion and I am now wonder why Kate Walsh was involved in this this film. It isn't great so far. But I recorded it, so I will be watching it all.

Have a great week :).

One Week!

One week and pure bliss hits the book shelf. Jenny Lawsom, aka The Bloggess is releasing her book. I can't wait. I want to laugh like a crazy person and have people side-eye me!

Jen Lancaster has a book coming out May 1. Excited about that one too. So much funny in such a short time frame!!!!

And tomorrow, another favorite author, Allison Winn Scotch releases her book. I will have some great summer reading.

I am in a serious "Rent" mood today - singing the soundtrack the car and watching the DVD tonight. I still cry when Angel dies Can't help it, it touches me. I am not sure why I was in a Rent mood today anyway. I was probably just feeling melancholy and wanted someway to express it. The music always gives me hope too. Just a mixed bag of greatness.

My big goal this week is to find time to read and write. I need to get those creative juices flowing.And I have some good stories from the bar. Nobody says I can't use those!!!!

Happy Tuesday all :)

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 :)).