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!