The story in which I swear upon whateveryouwant, that I am not making this up

The bug infestation? Yeah, I'm working on it. Did you know that there are not in fact enough hours in the day to go to work, vacuum, do dishes, go back to work (I know) and get like 10 loads of laundry done? Yeah, 24 hours? Not enough. (the laundry is not done. 3 loads down, 7 to go. Long story. We're washing all of our laundry that was "clean" but not put away. Oh, and when I say "we" I mean "me")

Apparently, my feet have decided that "oh no, it's totally fine to be shorter than the Olympic Champion Gymnast" (she's 5'3"--brat...just kidding, NL, I adore you) and have rejected wearing anything that is not in fact a flat. My most comfiest favoritest heels? Yeah, they were torture to the tootsies yesterday. And today? I'm wearing my even more comfy, wider, looser, bigger non restricting pair and guess what--they hurt like a mother too. I don't get it!! I always wear heels (it's a short person thing. I'm short. I'm shorter than a gymnast. But, taller than Shaun Johnson--ha ha ha). And, I'm pretty awesome in heels in that I can walk myself all over campus, the grocery store and sometimes across the street to 7-11 with no problemo. Today? Notsomuch.

My desk looks like a large tornado hit it. I need file cabinets.

Currently, mi casa is full of toxic smokey chemicals. Nice. I feel so un-organic about this and it kills me! (so, don't go trying to break into my house or nothin', cause you'll die)

Puppies (who are not really puppies) are at daycare/groomers (clean puppies, yum!) and kitty is at lovely boss lady's house.

I may or may not have a can of bug spray in my car (for precaution, of course). So, I decided to park in the covered lot that is further away from my office. Mind you, this lot has 5 levels and there is assigned parking on level 1 (I can't park there, and it suuuuccckkkss), but, I have been assured that anyone can park on levels 3-5. I'm thinking "covered parking, less sunlight, equals no exploding bug spray", because, well, no one wants a bug bombed Honda Accord....So, I pull into the entrance and swipey swipe my card. "ERROR--Access DENIED". Are you freaking kidding me?? Yeah, I'm still waiting to here back from the parking people as to why I cannot park on levels 3-5--or even get in! So, I 100-point-turned-it and got into a teeny space in front of my office. Hoping to avoid direct sunlight. And heat.

Which should be easy because it's cloudy and hopefully raining today.

And I totally left my umbrella at the restaurant last night. (yup)

Luckily, the Williams-Sonoma catalog made it home safely. (have you been in there lately?? It took all my restraint not to use entire checking account balance in there last night... Ohh mama, when I get paid this will all change...)

Seriously, what are the odds?

PS. I'm taking this whole thing as proof of Murphy's law. Or whatever. Don't worry, I'm laughing too.

Musings & Monday

I've got a lot to do today, so, let's just get down to business:

1. Youth Conference = best time ever. I loved it. I am/was exhausted. Got minimal hours of sleep, but, it was worth it. I loved seeing my girls have fun and kick booty at the "Olympics". I loved watching our youth preform the best dance routine ever (swing dance, my friends). I loved watching the nerdy guys dance with cute girls, and the cute girls dance with nerdy guys. I loved that everyone was supporting each other. I loved the talent show where I was brought to tears by the voices of our YM and was totally rockin' out when one sang from Newsies (Natalie, you and I would have had fun!). I loved it all. (Who knew I could be so positive?)

2. You know what I don't love? Surprise house guests. Surprise house guests who show up at 3:43 AM Sunday. Who don't get out of bed until 5:53 PM Sunday. Who didn't get back from the movies until 1:22 AM Monday. Yeah.... What would the world be without childhood friends to randomly show up on your doorstep?

3. I also don't love the random bug infestation that has taken over my house. I don't know what they are. I get to bug bomb the place tomorrow.

4. The husband is out of town.

5. Which means I am dealing with house guests/taking dogs to groomers/bug bombing house/trying to find someone to watch the cat whilst we bug bomb/clean the house--all by myself.

6. I cried my eyes out last night when the U.S Women's Rowing team won gold. I cried like a little baby. Seriously. I may or may not have been jumping up and down literally screaming at the TV. Maybe. I miss rowing....

7. It's safe to say I will not be making it to the gym tonight.

8. Crap.

9. I'm a little overwhelmed.

10. Scratch that. A lot overwhelmed.

11. I managed to get in a run on Friday night--after work. Now, let me tell you, that takes discipline people!

12. Work is out of control. I am stressed out beyond belief.

13. That said, I better go work.

Happy Monday!

Friday's Five....Words

I was tagged by One Fabulous Mom to list 5 words I do not like. She's a writer, I'm a writer--great minds at work here people!

1. Propaganda: not necessarily because I am or am not opposed to propaganda itself, but, a lot of people mispronounce it or just throw it around for random act of "big word usage".

2. Thong: I'm sorry, I can't even use it when referring to the shoe variety. In that case, they are flippies or flip flops.

3. Sack: as in grocery sack, or gunny sack. Can't we just say bag? (this does not apply to "Saks" as in Fifth Avenue)

4. Ooze: I'm sure this is obvious.

5. Eggplant: I know, I know! And, I love eggplant. It's yummy. I love cooking with it, I love it. I think the name "eggplant" is weird. It sounds weird. It's weird. (this could explain a lot about The Shabby Princess...)

So, there you all have it. My random upon random list of "no-no" words for me. Thanks OFM for including me in this!

PS. I don't know about y'all but I am so excited it's Friday!

I'm all zen and all, but....

So, this week has been rough.

Well, the last few weeks (ahem, years) have been rough. Today, for whatever reason was especially near-tear inducing (I didn't, because I'm brave like that).

So, for whatever reason I was just in sad/depressed/angry/wanting to quit my job/jump off a bridge/inhale chocolate for all eternity/go home and sleep mode....When, suddenly, fabulous boss asks me if I'd like to go to lunch. At Bubbas (the obvious answer is "yes, please!").

To which, I have returned.

My tummy is full.

So maybe, the answer is: I just needed food.

(Possibly fried chicken and a roll.)

I feel much better and have no desire to quit my job/jump off a bridge/inhale chocolate for all eternity or cry. I am zen.... ("ooommmmm")

I'd still like a nap though.

I'm just sayin'.

I did it, I did it, I did it!

Please excuse the over excitement, but, I just registered for Italian! And I'm so very excited because a.) I actually committed to something and b.) now, if we ever do go to Italy, I'll hopefully be able to speak the language and c.) my hope is that when we have children, I can teach our children to speak Italian. I never had the blessing of parents who spoke any other language, and hey, even if it is Italian, they'll still be that much cooler.

And, I'll finally get to go here:

image via flickr

Eeek! Now, let's just hope this class will be everything I'm hoping it will be.

I've been in kind of a major funk lately, but, let me tell you, having a goal like making it through the race in December (not that I'm stressing or anything) and looking forward to speaking Italian, and currently reading Eat, Pray, Love (I've heard it changes lives, let's hope--any other "life changing" books, y'all?), is making me feel better already. I am trying to get to know the real me, the real person that I am.

I never had a chance to "be a kid" and, when I thought I was going to get a summer of travel with BFF L, I had to go and buy a house, thus, nixing my travel money (damn being a grown up!). So, while I've spent my summer hunkered down at crazy workplace with topsy turvy spazziness, I've let myself get into that stupid feeling sorry for myself place--that I loathe. I'm trying to crawl out of it. But, let me tell you, the past few (who are we kidding here, it's been more like ohh 5+) years have been hard, and, I've decided that it's time I take care of me. If that means learning Italian, running in a race, and therefor being exhausted, that is A OK, because that's what I wanted I didn't ask anyone's opinion on the matter.

Hi, I'm Ally, aka The Shabby Princess. It's nice to meet you.

(sorry y'all to be a Debbie Downer, I just wanted to share a little bit about moi. Don't get too uncomfortable--silly, funny, crazy SP will be back in full force tomorrow, don't you worry).

Musings & Monday

Hello! Happy first week after the Olympics start! Is it just me or does anyone else have the urge to just stat at home and watch random events just to cheer on our team? Yeah, I have that problem too...But, I didn't, I'm strong, I pulled myself out of bed (I should get medals for that, kids). Anywho, onto the weekend update...

1. Seriously 2008 Beijing, seriously awesome. Although, I'm not entirely sure how clean that air is and whatnot, but, dang, they sure did go all out.
2. Who else was so freaking excited when the mens swimming team won that relay?! Um, yeah, first time we saw any emotion out of Mr. Phelps, and it was thrilling.
3. Can someone please tell me where to get these super cool blazers that my beloved RL made for the team? Yeah, I see that being a centerpiece of my fall wardrobe.

4. It's raining in like every city surrounding the one I happen to be in. And I'd really like some rain--all I'm sayin'.

5. BFF A is all settled in at her new abode in DC. I'm slightly jealous.
6. One of my favorite people moved away yesterday, which makes me sad, but, I'm so excited for all their new adventures and am thrilled for them. But, still wish they'd stayed.
7. Just found out another one of my dearest, dearest friends is expecting!!! YAY! They happen to have the sweetest family ever and I'm so excited for them...Although, sometimes, I do kind of feel like I'm way behind on this whole kids thing.
8. Ran on Saturday, heck yes. Lost 1 pound from last week. Heck yes x 2.
9. Did I mention I won't be home a single night this week? Yeah, that kinda bites.
10. Seriously, is it Monday?
11. The soldering that's holding my engagement ring and wedding band together is definitely breaking--fabulous.
12. Thanks for all the tips on the Mama Mia soundtrack, I'll be downloading that in the very near future.
13. OK guys. OK. I can do this. I can commit to something. Now, let's all just hope that the Italian classes are still open when I go to register (otherwise this whole physcing myself up thing, it going to have been a real waste of time).
14. Now, if you'll excuse me, I am going to go hunt down some caffeine. (we're out of soda at the house. And food. I had to make biscuits for breakfast. For the fourth day in a row. Did I mention that I don't really like biscuits?)

Finally (Fabulous) Friday

Good morning y'all.

Made it to the gym last night, and I may or may not have been rockin' out on the treadmill to The Sound of Music soundtrack (shut up). Let me tell ya, lip synching to "Do Re Mi" while running--not easy. Also, I'm sure it was wildly hilarious as I may or may not have spontaneously attempted to act out various scenes from the movie. Don't judge me, you know you love that movie too. I'm not even kidding, running to musical soundtracks= time goes by quicker. (I might have a slight addiction to musicals. I blame this on my mother)

3 miles, guys! I know that's not huge, but, for someone who literally has not run in 3 years (I work out, I just do not run), I'm rather excited. And thanks everyone for your nice comments and support. I had no idea I was going to get myself so in over my head in the upcoming months--I mean, Italian, training for a race and everything else? Wow. I love all your comments, y'all will get me through this (thanks in advance).

Did I mention that today is 8/8/08? Oh I didn't? Well, you all know what today is--Opening Ceremonies of the Olympics!! I'll admit it, I love the Olympics. I have total, 100%, all consuming Olympic fever. I was lucky enough to attend the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake and bawled like a baby when Team USA entered the stadium. I just love the Olympics.

I love the team spirit, and I love that we can all get behind these people and cheer them on. Also, man, I really hope that Michael Phelps can win all the medals this time around so that everyone will just leave the kid alone!

Yes, I realize that I'm totally cheesy and a huge nerd, but, let's just breeze past that, shall we?

PS. I picked up this fabulous sweater last week. I am not a fan of sweater weather, but, I may be reconsidering.

OK, I suppose I must go work now...

No, but, seriously

Right.

Someone, please, remind me that I don't run. Please. Someone just casually pull me aside and say "SP, you don't run. Royals do not run." And I'll say "Why yes, of course. I will not run." Ha! Where were you with these tempting words yesterday when I somehow got myself sucked into running a marathon relay ?(or is it relay marathon? I'm not really sure)....Which is slightly ironic because my work is involved in one of the race events, so, blah, blah, I should be there anyway, blah, blah.

In any event, I, The Shabby Princess have started running again. This has been an on and off love affair over the last few years of my life. Lately, however, it has been "off". In a big way. But, I've hit the treadmill twice in the last week (um, the other days I was using the elliptical, not slackin'), and yesterday, almost, almost made it through my "Running Mix" on my iPod. Baby steps (name that movie!).

I've got 130 days to run this thing. And, with my luck, they'll give me the first or last leg. 6 miles. Woo freaking whoo.

OK, now I have to go inhale the chocolate I am hiding in my desk (it's dark chocolate, which means that the antioxidants cancel out the sugar and calories. What? You didn't know that? Obviously you have not been taught by moi about chocolate) and then pretend for the rest of the day to be all granola and into running, man....

On the upside, if I do pull this thing off (wish me luck), I'm treating myself to a pair of Bonannos. In the dead of winter.

Musings & Monday

Good morning, all!! Quick side note: I am exhausted. I washed my bedding this weekend and don't you just love that fresh clean sheets feeling? Yeah, me too. I want to crawl back in bed right now.....Anyways, onto more pressing things I suppose... Allow me to muse away....

1. Husband at baseball game = several episodes of Burn Notice (which, for those of you that have been suffering and haven't seen the show--USA on Thursday nights, by the way...think of it as an American semi-version of James Bond. Except the main character is a spy that got fired, and has no money and therefor no cool guns, cars, etc. But, it's hilarious and probably one of my favorite shows. And, if you have seen it and don't like it, I'm sorry, I love it), all the sundried tomato and sausage penne I wanted (which, actually, turned out not to be that much) and snuggle time with the doggies. Although, I must admit, most of their time was spent sitting in front of the door wondering where on earth dadpup was (mompup is the disciplinarian in the house).

2. Going to the gym on Saturday made me feel like a badass. It was relatively empty, which was fantastic.

3. I'm debating kickboxing tonight or just going to the gym--the gym thing saves time as I got right after work whereas kickboxing is all the way across town and doesn't start until 6:30, which means it's 8 by the time I get home.... Thoughts?

4. It's August. I'm as pale as I was in March. This is a real problem.

5. Registration started for Italian classes last week, I need to register ASAP, but, I'm suddenly scared. It's school. It's class class. It's work. Ughhh! I just finished that... But! On the upside, it's "informal" classes, so, I'm assuming that I actually can't fail--because, really, letter grades do a number on my self esteem. Plus, it's one more night a week that I won't be home.

6. One more night a week? You ask..... Well, yes, that's right because holy guacamole I got called to Young Womens. (and am kinda sorta freaking the heck out) Right. Help!! Don't get me wrong, I'm really looking forward to it and really excited--and it doesn't hurt that the husband is in YM, but, still. Eh, eh, ugh, help! Scared out of my teeny tiny little mind. Also, did I mention that I'm a total commitment phobe? Yeah, as if you didn't already know that. Deep breathes, I can do this. And somehow manage to work full time, learn Italian, go to the gym, take care of the home front and.... How do all you supermom's do it??? Please, share, please.

7. My sis in law says she may be coming out here in the next few months. Wahoo!! Which also means, whoops, I better get her room decorated ASAP.

8. HRH Princess Hanna Puffy Cheeks has suddenly forgotten that doggies go potty outside. Either that or she has started thinking that the awful "modern shag" carpet we have in the study is actually grass. Or, Butch is telling her to potty in hopes of getting her in trouble and getting her into the crate when we're gone. Ha, I'm onto you HRH Big Boxer Boy Butch.

9. It's like a bagillion degrees outside and it sucks.

10. I got my pedi. But, I schmootzed the color. Of course I did. Me and my big ol dumb feet.

11. Mama Mia! was sold out again this weekend! Don't these people understand that I need my movie? Seriously. Seriously. Sold out. Again.

12. Fabulous Friday night Target finds include: pink and green printed notecards 8 for $1. Golden shimmer wannabe pashmina on sale for $11.29. Yesss!

13. It's Monday. And I haven't had my Diet Coke yet (trying to whiten the teeth y'all--yellow ain't a pretty color). Please, send well wishes. It could get dicey around here!

That's all for now, folks!
(um, did I just quote Loony Tunes??)

Fabulous Friday

It's really too early to fully determine how fabulous today will be, but, hey, let's aim high!

Last night, yours truly went to the gym (ahem, second night in a row people) and is happy to report that moving is rather difficult. Booty hurts. Legs hurt. Arms hurt. Good times. (this may or may have ended in someone laying helplessly on the sofa most of last night, but, that's a different story)

Tonight, the husband will be with the YM at a baseball game (I don't do baseball) which means some quality time at home with the broom and vacuum for me. I know, you're really jealous, but, you'll be even more jealous when you see what I'll be watching whilst cleaning....

Have I mentioned how much I love this show? Sigh... Loved it as usual last night. Laughed hysterically with the husband, we both love it. So thrilled it's back for a second season. Best part of the summer if ya ask me....

Anybody want to come over and watch?? I promise, I won't make you clean.

Say 7:15 ish?

Dear Paula Deen,

from PaulaDeen.com

Please adopt me.

I'm handy in the kitchen, you kinda sorta look like my mom, you need a cute little daughter anyhow, I love Southern cooking, and, most importantly, I love butter. What more could you want?

So, please, consider taking me in. You know where to find me.

xoxoxo,
Me

Earthquake

Now, I will try my damndest, not to get on my soapbox here, but, I make no promises.

First, I am so thankful that no one was seriously injured and that damage thus far seems to be relatively minor. I am so thankful for that. I am also very thankful that I was not in Los Angeles when it happened, that's for sure.

I've had my share of earthquakes (I remember Lomo Alto and my baby twin cousins were trapped behind their dresser in Northridge), and honey, after 2003, I am finished.

That was the most horrific day of my life.

I am so grateful that no one else had to experience what my sweet community did, and what my family went through. I'm so grateful that Northridge woke people up and that Southern California enacted laws to create safer buildings, for the people who fought for that.

I wish there had been stronger laws in 2003, but, mostly, I wish people had actually enforced them (outside of L.A).

I am grateful to the Governor for signing Jenna's bill, and I"m grateful to all those who are still working to make California a safer place for everyone.

I know you can't predict earthquakes, I know that. But, the safer the buildings are, the better. I'm so glad that no one was seriously injured in yesterday's quake.

(OK, OK, getting off my soapbox now).