Seriously. Squirrels.
At our last house, our backdoor was glass (mistake numero uno) and we had three large trees and about 50 feet of bushes (mistake numero dos)--and we had a magnolia tree in our front yard (mistake numero tres...although, I do miss that tree) and our sidewalk was littered with acorns (obviously, from the other trees, not the magnolia).
This should have been a sign that maybe we don't need to move in. Of course, being happy to get out of teeny apartment and into hardwood floor heaven, we didn't think anything of the damn trees and nuts galore. (what mistake am I on?) We were just happy to have a landlord who said we could have pets.
For the 2 years we lived there, our dogs waged a full on war against the squirrels. The glass in the back door was nearly broken at least 3 times a week and we had to keep our front blinds closed (thus becoming those neighbors) so that our dogs did not go apeshit on the squirrels residing in the magnolia tree. It was a constant struggle.
(we won't discuss the issue with the mailman at this point)
When we moved into our current home, we took note that there was only one large tree and with so many other fun things to bark at (school busses! neighbor dogs! automatic flood lights!) we weren't overly worried about SquirrelGate 3.0.
Until now (note, we've been here almost two years). My mentally challenged dogs have finally discovered the squirrels. Probably because the leaves on our backyard tree are nonexistent in the winter and they are using my backfence as some sort of Squirrel Superhighway. Yesterday, I saw one of those little bastards with what looked like a water bottle. Great, now they're digging through my garbage like bunch of racoons? Not good.
Tree--> fence--> neighbors tree. And thus the cycle continues.
My dogs spot the bastards out our bedroom window and then spend the rest of the day crying and jumping around like crazies. If we let them out to attack the squirrels, it just spirals into a fiasco of beagle howling and because she's a hound and not a genius, she hasn't realized that hey, guess what, squirrels live in the tree, they don't care that you've barked them up the tree. They win.
Squirrels: 1
Wild pack of dogs: 0
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Monday, January 11, 2010
The KGB controls my grocery store
I'm one of those lucky people who has a grocery store right down the street from their house (I also have two Target stores--obviously, these are homeowning priorities). The grocery store is staffed conpletely by Russian immigrants--which is a bit bizarre considering I live approximately .35 miles from the ghetto and was unaware that a Russian neighborhood was also housed there. (and that my city was a Russian immigrant locale)
They are always friendly and smiling which makes the tedious task of grocery shopping a bit more bearable.
However, what I can't understand is how what I'm sure are descendants of the KGB cannot put more than 1 item in a bag. Case in point: today, I left the store with nearly $150 in groceries (shut up, I'm feeding three adults here, two of which are country folk with big appetites) and approximately 7,000 grocery bags. Including one singular bag for my tortilla chips.
Now, I have no problem bagging my own groceries, and am willing to do so because I firmly believe that I can put at least 3 items in a bag. However, I'm thinking it's rude to just butt in and bag my own groceries if they're offering.
And that last thing I want is a bunch of angry Russians.
I really do like my grocery store.
They are always friendly and smiling which makes the tedious task of grocery shopping a bit more bearable.
However, what I can't understand is how what I'm sure are descendants of the KGB cannot put more than 1 item in a bag. Case in point: today, I left the store with nearly $150 in groceries (shut up, I'm feeding three adults here, two of which are country folk with big appetites) and approximately 7,000 grocery bags. Including one singular bag for my tortilla chips.
Now, I have no problem bagging my own groceries, and am willing to do so because I firmly believe that I can put at least 3 items in a bag. However, I'm thinking it's rude to just butt in and bag my own groceries if they're offering.
And that last thing I want is a bunch of angry Russians.
I really do like my grocery store.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
You asked, I answered
You asked--I answered :)
Thank y'all for playin' along--I had fun!
Enjoy getting to know me a little better.....
Zoë asked: If you could choose one designer brand for each of these categories, and own ONE item of each, who/what would it be?: (this is like a bucket list of fashion! I love it!)
a. Shoes: Stuart Weitzman. I know, no C. Loubs—can you believe it? I’d love C. Loubs, but, Stuart Weitzman always has such fun and girly shoes and once, there were pink ones with a bow! A bow! I die.
b. Coat: Always wanted a Burberry trench.
c. Dress: anything by Diane Von Furstenberg.
d. Handbag: A classic brown and tan LV. I don’t have one—yet.
e. Sunglasses: Chanel. Big ol’ face covering Jackie O style Chanel.
Lindsey asked...
If you could only have 2 beverages the rest of your life, what would they be?: Diet Coke and water. Or Powerade. No, water.
EmilyB asked...
What are your "must-haves" for running....gear, apparel, food, etc...?: Good socks (I wear Nike dry fit socks)—having good socks makes a huge difference. Thin or thick, whatever works for you. My fuel belt. I have an anxiety attack if I go on a run without it. My Nike capris or shorts depending on the weather, a good fitting sports bra (I wear Under Armour) and non chafing dri fit top or tank top (Reebok makes my favorite tank)….And in terms of food, well pre run, I don’t eat—I know, shame! Unless it’s a race in which I’ll be up for a good 2 hours before the race, then I eat—toast with peanut butter and chocolate chips. The chocolate chips are a deal breaker. I also run with Luna Moons for mid run fuel and Cliff Shot Bloks as well. I like the orange and the black cherry Shot Bloks (they both have caffeine!) and the blueberry Luna Moons.
Patience asked...
Why did you start running? Why do you continue to run?: I started running years ago just to run. Then, I got lazy. Then, I started running because my work was going to do a relay –that fell through, but, I kept running. Originally to lose weight, and then because I started entering races. I keep running because it’s “me time” and because I love races—I’m not fast, but, I love doing it. I keep racing for Operation Jack and I want to run as many races in 2010 for Operation Jack as I possibly can.
Heather asked...
What accomplishment are you most proud of?: Finishing my first marathon is up there, but, winning a court case and getting case law in California changed to protect people is pretty damn huge. (I don't know if that makes sense--I'm not a lawyer, so, I guess "I" didn't win, my side won...anyways....)
Polka Dots & Protein Bars asked…
What is one thing that you couldn't get through the day without?: Diet Coke. Seriously. How sad is that? I’d say my husband, but, occasionally we’ve gone a day without talking—but, I do love him a whole bunch.
Beside Target and Anthropologie what are your other favorite stores?: I love Nordstrom because it’s a fancy people’s Target! Ha. I also really like Gap because they have great jeans and J. Crew. I also like little boutique-y stores back in California, I’ve yet to find any in Dallas that I like.
Classy Fab Sarah asked...
What are your favorite items in your wardrobe (extra points for the cheapest, most favorite items)?: Ohh, I love my J. Crew boots, and my orange Audrey Hepburn coat that I got over Christmas. And my wool jacket from J. Crew. Those are my favorites because they’re the nicest things I own! My all time go to’s are probably my gray slacks from Dillards, black flats from Target and a black dress I got at Target years ago. It goes with everything and can be fancy or casual. Also, Target has really cute dresses in stock right now.
What does your basic beauty/grooming routine consist of?: AM, brush teeth and floss, mouthwash, then anti wrinkle serum (for hypothetical wrinkles, of course), lotion with SPF mixed with sunless tanner, foundation, eye shadow, tons of blush, oodles of mascara and chapstick. My hair depends on if I run in the morning or afternoon—oftentimes a low ponytail or I curl the ends under. I’m fairly low maintenance in that regard. Although, when I have time (read: don’t oversleep) I’ll do big Texas hair which I love. At night, same deal with the teeth and then just my lovely bye-bye wrinkle serum.
Milltini asked...
How do you manage a pretty intense training schedule (i.e. training for a marathon) and the rest of your life (work, husband, friends, dog)?: Ha, that’s funny. I didn’t. Well, I did for a while. September and October I was sick a lot (not running related) and it took a toll on everything in my life. My November I had things under control. I approached running like my job—get up, run, just do it. I always try to run in the morning that way it’s done, I can’t make excuses and it makes my day better. When I looked at it like a job, it was a lot easier to do. Also, fear was a big motivator—I didn’t want to crash and burn at the marathon. Getting it out of the way before work meant I had time at night to run errands, make dinner, clean and spend time with my husband, friends and puppies.
d.a.r. asked...
I also wanna know how you find time to run so much, share your secrets!!: My alarm is set for 5:30 (or earlier) every morning. It sucks. I’m in bed by 9:30 if I can help it. I pack my gym bag and get my work clothes ready around 8:30. I have a routine. It’s pretty lame, but, I get to watch my favorite TV shows later thanks to OnDemand TV since I’m in bed before anything comes on! I run before work if I can help it, and sometimes will run at lunch if it’s something short. Rarely, rarely after work. I don’t have time!
Also, tell me about your running clothes. What are your faves?: Nike Dry Fit shorts and capris, Reebok tank tops, Under Armour dry fit tee shirts. My staples. And, I will say that Target has a pretty decent line too. I have two capris from there, several running skirts and my winter running pants are from Target as well. They’ve really stepped it up lately. They also have a long sleeve dry fit shirt for cold weather I really want!
Any recommendations for fueling during a half?: Invest in a fuel belt—I’m obsessed with water and I need water when I need it and don’t want to wait for the water stops on a course—but, that’s just me. Also, take along some Gu or Bloks, whatever works for you. Chances are you’ll get hungry mid race and need something to calm your stomach. My stomach is usually talkin’ to me mid way through a half so I want something in it besides water! And of course, breakfast of champions: toast with peanut butter and chocolate chips!
Brittany Ann asked....
Well, I'm not gonna lie, blog block or no, you peeked my interest: So whatcha get at Target?: Let’s see, mousse, a new headband, sunless tanner, mouthwash, lotion, Iams dog food, a big ol’ hurricane candle holder, new candle, Diet Coke and Fabreze.
Texan Couture asked...
How do you find motivation for your runs?: I think about my ever increasing waistline and the races I’ve signed up for—sure, I’m not fast, but, I want to finish each one thinking “good job!” so, I know that if I don’t at least try to run I’ll bomb at the race—and I do not want to do that!
What type of shoes are your favorite for running?: I was wearing New Balance 769s (and they were pink!) but, now I’m wearing Brooks Adrenaline 9. I loved the New Balances but, I’m a slight pronator and my ankles are weak so I needed something that had a bit more support especially on my double digit runs. So far, I love them.
What is your must have beauty item?: chapstick or lotion. My skin is always so dry!
Jessica asked...
where do you see yourself in 5 years?: Hopefully on a book tour with several little ones in tow! I said that a year ago, but, the sentiment remains the same. I hope to have a published book and a bambino or two.
ten years?: Hopefully writing as a profession, still running marathons, and getting to be a stay at home momma. I’d also like a vacation home. Or two. Dream big or go home—obviously.
Samma asked...
What is the book about?: I’m not going to get all “ooohhh I can’t tell you, you’ll steal my idea” because it’s pretty impossible for anyone to do that in this instance. It’s a semi autobiographical fiction about my life detailing the events after my mother’s death and how although life isn’t ever what we think it’s going to be, in the end, we get what we need. I know it sounds depressing, but, it’s really not! The point is that so much ridiculous stuff happened that is just too out of control not to share with the world (seriously, when we were about to lower my mom's casket into the grave, my step-dad threw himself on top of it, crushing all the flowers and proceeded to basically hump the casket. The world needs to hear these stories!). It addresses things in my life and how if you can’t look back and laugh, this world is going to take you for a ride. It’s supposed to be fun chick lit—I swear!
Morgan asked...
I want the whole lovey dovey story of how you and your man met!: Ha! We were “set up” by my best friend and his mom—who both still deny it to this very day! We worked at the same company and his family and my best friend (who I worked with) were really close. He and I were both newly out of relationships and I wanted nothing to do with dating but my BFF was getting sick of me being alone all the time (note: 6 months after my mom died, I was still fragile) so she tells me one day (exact words) “I’m not saying you need to marry him, just, go out to dinner or something”. Then, he’d “drop by” our office to talk to or pick up something from my BFF and we’d chat—then he stopped by once after I’d left looking for me… Then my BFF put my number on his windshield (because she’s evil)—he almost lost my number (because he didn’t see it for about 2 miles!) called me, we went out to dinner, closed down the restaurant, and were engaged a few months later and married 9 months after that. Whew. I should also mention that we both knew of each other before the “set up” and we hated each other. Ironic, right?
Also, does he run and how does he deal with your running?: He does not run, he’s a cyclist. He supports my running 100% getting up at ungodly hours to get to races and wander around for several hours, he encourages me and when it’s nice out, a lot of the time he’ll go for a ride and I’ll go for a run—not together, but, it’s still nice.
Favorite shoe?: currently my Brooks. I’ve tried 3 different shoes and these are my favorites so far. We’ll see how they hold up!
Favorite distance?: 15k or half marathon. The 15k is a fun nice distance and easily broken down into 5k increments which make it mentally easy. And I love the half marathon because it’s double digits and you still get bling even if you don’t place—and I never do!
If you could race any race in the world which one would it be and why?: Probably one of the those adventure marathons—they have them in Jordan, Iceland, places like that. I’d love to run the Petra Marathon because I’d love to go to Petra. How cool would that be?
Enough questions for you?: Never!
Sara asked...
Name your Top 5:
- places you want to travel to: Italy, Scotland, Africa, Argentina, the South Pacific.
- songs on your ipod (to run to): Don’t you judge me! These are my running songs. Gunpowder & Lead (Miranda Lambert), Mamma Mia (Abba), Bombs over Baghdad (Outkast), Sweet Home Alabama (Lynyrd Skynyrd), I Wanna Rock (Twisted Sister).
- favorite items in your closet: J. Crew boots, black dress, orange coat, pink cardigan, ruffled white tee shirt.
- actors you want to make out with: Hugh Jackman, Daniel Craig, Christian Bale, Bear Grylls, Simon Baker (are we seeing a trend?)
- favorite foods/meals/recipes:
foods—chocolate, grilled cheese (I’m 5), chips & salsa, good crusty sourdough bread, zucchini (yes, really!).
Meals—I love me a good ol’ bowl of lentil soup (bonus points for recipes from The Barefoot Contessa), a big happy salad, curry dishes and of course, anything chocolate (molten chocolate cake = my idea of heaven).
Recipes—I don’t know! I watch a lot of The Food Network (especially while at the gym—weird?) and get about 90% of what I cook from Giada or Ina. True story.
- favorite movies (and TV shows):
movies—The Sounds of Music, Gone With the Wind, The Great Race, Casablanca, What About Bob.
Tv shows—The Office, The Mentalist, What Not To Wear, Burn Notice, The Closer
Naturally Caffeinated Family asked...
how about where would you like to travel (and why=)): I’d really like to go all over—I know, a lot to ask, right? I guess there are some places I’d love to go more than others. I really want to go to Scotland because my mom’s family is Scottish and that would be a really neat experience. I’ve always wanted to go to Italy and am pretty sure you could park me there for 5 years and I’d be OK with that. It just seems hands down magical. I didn’t mention this in my tip 5 listed above, but, I’d really like to go back to the Virgin Islands—my mom had a friend with a house there so we went a lot when I was younger and those trips are hands down some of my greatest memories. I’d really like to go back and re-live that and share it with my husband. I’d love to go to Argentina because I think Patagonia would be so neat to see and hike and do all that. And the South Pacific—I mean, hello, beaches for miles? That’s my kind of place!
favorite ice cream flavor (an important question): Mint chip. Always has been.
if you could do anything (when we grow up) what would you do?: I want to be a mommy and a writer. Honestly, being a travel writer would be amazing.
Thank y'all for playin' along--I had fun!
Enjoy getting to know me a little better.....
Zoë asked: If you could choose one designer brand for each of these categories, and own ONE item of each, who/what would it be?: (this is like a bucket list of fashion! I love it!)
a. Shoes: Stuart Weitzman. I know, no C. Loubs—can you believe it? I’d love C. Loubs, but, Stuart Weitzman always has such fun and girly shoes and once, there were pink ones with a bow! A bow! I die.
b. Coat: Always wanted a Burberry trench.
c. Dress: anything by Diane Von Furstenberg.
d. Handbag: A classic brown and tan LV. I don’t have one—yet.
e. Sunglasses: Chanel. Big ol’ face covering Jackie O style Chanel.
Lindsey asked...
If you could only have 2 beverages the rest of your life, what would they be?: Diet Coke and water. Or Powerade. No, water.
EmilyB asked...
What are your "must-haves" for running....gear, apparel, food, etc...?: Good socks (I wear Nike dry fit socks)—having good socks makes a huge difference. Thin or thick, whatever works for you. My fuel belt. I have an anxiety attack if I go on a run without it. My Nike capris or shorts depending on the weather, a good fitting sports bra (I wear Under Armour) and non chafing dri fit top or tank top (Reebok makes my favorite tank)….And in terms of food, well pre run, I don’t eat—I know, shame! Unless it’s a race in which I’ll be up for a good 2 hours before the race, then I eat—toast with peanut butter and chocolate chips. The chocolate chips are a deal breaker. I also run with Luna Moons for mid run fuel and Cliff Shot Bloks as well. I like the orange and the black cherry Shot Bloks (they both have caffeine!) and the blueberry Luna Moons.
Patience asked...
Why did you start running? Why do you continue to run?: I started running years ago just to run. Then, I got lazy. Then, I started running because my work was going to do a relay –that fell through, but, I kept running. Originally to lose weight, and then because I started entering races. I keep running because it’s “me time” and because I love races—I’m not fast, but, I love doing it. I keep racing for Operation Jack and I want to run as many races in 2010 for Operation Jack as I possibly can.
Heather asked...
What accomplishment are you most proud of?: Finishing my first marathon is up there, but, winning a court case and getting case law in California changed to protect people is pretty damn huge. (I don't know if that makes sense--I'm not a lawyer, so, I guess "I" didn't win, my side won...anyways....)
Polka Dots & Protein Bars asked…
What is one thing that you couldn't get through the day without?: Diet Coke. Seriously. How sad is that? I’d say my husband, but, occasionally we’ve gone a day without talking—but, I do love him a whole bunch.
Beside Target and Anthropologie what are your other favorite stores?: I love Nordstrom because it’s a fancy people’s Target! Ha. I also really like Gap because they have great jeans and J. Crew. I also like little boutique-y stores back in California, I’ve yet to find any in Dallas that I like.
Classy Fab Sarah asked...
What are your favorite items in your wardrobe (extra points for the cheapest, most favorite items)?: Ohh, I love my J. Crew boots, and my orange Audrey Hepburn coat that I got over Christmas. And my wool jacket from J. Crew. Those are my favorites because they’re the nicest things I own! My all time go to’s are probably my gray slacks from Dillards, black flats from Target and a black dress I got at Target years ago. It goes with everything and can be fancy or casual. Also, Target has really cute dresses in stock right now.
What does your basic beauty/grooming routine consist of?: AM, brush teeth and floss, mouthwash, then anti wrinkle serum (for hypothetical wrinkles, of course), lotion with SPF mixed with sunless tanner, foundation, eye shadow, tons of blush, oodles of mascara and chapstick. My hair depends on if I run in the morning or afternoon—oftentimes a low ponytail or I curl the ends under. I’m fairly low maintenance in that regard. Although, when I have time (read: don’t oversleep) I’ll do big Texas hair which I love. At night, same deal with the teeth and then just my lovely bye-bye wrinkle serum.
Milltini asked...
How do you manage a pretty intense training schedule (i.e. training for a marathon) and the rest of your life (work, husband, friends, dog)?: Ha, that’s funny. I didn’t. Well, I did for a while. September and October I was sick a lot (not running related) and it took a toll on everything in my life. My November I had things under control. I approached running like my job—get up, run, just do it. I always try to run in the morning that way it’s done, I can’t make excuses and it makes my day better. When I looked at it like a job, it was a lot easier to do. Also, fear was a big motivator—I didn’t want to crash and burn at the marathon. Getting it out of the way before work meant I had time at night to run errands, make dinner, clean and spend time with my husband, friends and puppies.
d.a.r. asked...
I also wanna know how you find time to run so much, share your secrets!!: My alarm is set for 5:30 (or earlier) every morning. It sucks. I’m in bed by 9:30 if I can help it. I pack my gym bag and get my work clothes ready around 8:30. I have a routine. It’s pretty lame, but, I get to watch my favorite TV shows later thanks to OnDemand TV since I’m in bed before anything comes on! I run before work if I can help it, and sometimes will run at lunch if it’s something short. Rarely, rarely after work. I don’t have time!
Also, tell me about your running clothes. What are your faves?: Nike Dry Fit shorts and capris, Reebok tank tops, Under Armour dry fit tee shirts. My staples. And, I will say that Target has a pretty decent line too. I have two capris from there, several running skirts and my winter running pants are from Target as well. They’ve really stepped it up lately. They also have a long sleeve dry fit shirt for cold weather I really want!
Any recommendations for fueling during a half?: Invest in a fuel belt—I’m obsessed with water and I need water when I need it and don’t want to wait for the water stops on a course—but, that’s just me. Also, take along some Gu or Bloks, whatever works for you. Chances are you’ll get hungry mid race and need something to calm your stomach. My stomach is usually talkin’ to me mid way through a half so I want something in it besides water! And of course, breakfast of champions: toast with peanut butter and chocolate chips!
Brittany Ann asked....
Well, I'm not gonna lie, blog block or no, you peeked my interest: So whatcha get at Target?: Let’s see, mousse, a new headband, sunless tanner, mouthwash, lotion, Iams dog food, a big ol’ hurricane candle holder, new candle, Diet Coke and Fabreze.
Texan Couture asked...
How do you find motivation for your runs?: I think about my ever increasing waistline and the races I’ve signed up for—sure, I’m not fast, but, I want to finish each one thinking “good job!” so, I know that if I don’t at least try to run I’ll bomb at the race—and I do not want to do that!
What type of shoes are your favorite for running?: I was wearing New Balance 769s (and they were pink!) but, now I’m wearing Brooks Adrenaline 9. I loved the New Balances but, I’m a slight pronator and my ankles are weak so I needed something that had a bit more support especially on my double digit runs. So far, I love them.
What is your must have beauty item?: chapstick or lotion. My skin is always so dry!
Jessica asked...
where do you see yourself in 5 years?: Hopefully on a book tour with several little ones in tow! I said that a year ago, but, the sentiment remains the same. I hope to have a published book and a bambino or two.
ten years?: Hopefully writing as a profession, still running marathons, and getting to be a stay at home momma. I’d also like a vacation home. Or two. Dream big or go home—obviously.
Samma asked...
What is the book about?: I’m not going to get all “ooohhh I can’t tell you, you’ll steal my idea” because it’s pretty impossible for anyone to do that in this instance. It’s a semi autobiographical fiction about my life detailing the events after my mother’s death and how although life isn’t ever what we think it’s going to be, in the end, we get what we need. I know it sounds depressing, but, it’s really not! The point is that so much ridiculous stuff happened that is just too out of control not to share with the world (seriously, when we were about to lower my mom's casket into the grave, my step-dad threw himself on top of it, crushing all the flowers and proceeded to basically hump the casket. The world needs to hear these stories!). It addresses things in my life and how if you can’t look back and laugh, this world is going to take you for a ride. It’s supposed to be fun chick lit—I swear!
Morgan asked...
I want the whole lovey dovey story of how you and your man met!: Ha! We were “set up” by my best friend and his mom—who both still deny it to this very day! We worked at the same company and his family and my best friend (who I worked with) were really close. He and I were both newly out of relationships and I wanted nothing to do with dating but my BFF was getting sick of me being alone all the time (note: 6 months after my mom died, I was still fragile) so she tells me one day (exact words) “I’m not saying you need to marry him, just, go out to dinner or something”. Then, he’d “drop by” our office to talk to or pick up something from my BFF and we’d chat—then he stopped by once after I’d left looking for me… Then my BFF put my number on his windshield (because she’s evil)—he almost lost my number (because he didn’t see it for about 2 miles!) called me, we went out to dinner, closed down the restaurant, and were engaged a few months later and married 9 months after that. Whew. I should also mention that we both knew of each other before the “set up” and we hated each other. Ironic, right?
Also, does he run and how does he deal with your running?: He does not run, he’s a cyclist. He supports my running 100% getting up at ungodly hours to get to races and wander around for several hours, he encourages me and when it’s nice out, a lot of the time he’ll go for a ride and I’ll go for a run—not together, but, it’s still nice.
Favorite shoe?: currently my Brooks. I’ve tried 3 different shoes and these are my favorites so far. We’ll see how they hold up!
Favorite distance?: 15k or half marathon. The 15k is a fun nice distance and easily broken down into 5k increments which make it mentally easy. And I love the half marathon because it’s double digits and you still get bling even if you don’t place—and I never do!
If you could race any race in the world which one would it be and why?: Probably one of the those adventure marathons—they have them in Jordan, Iceland, places like that. I’d love to run the Petra Marathon because I’d love to go to Petra. How cool would that be?
Enough questions for you?: Never!
Sara asked...
Name your Top 5:
- places you want to travel to: Italy, Scotland, Africa, Argentina, the South Pacific.
- songs on your ipod (to run to): Don’t you judge me! These are my running songs. Gunpowder & Lead (Miranda Lambert), Mamma Mia (Abba), Bombs over Baghdad (Outkast), Sweet Home Alabama (Lynyrd Skynyrd), I Wanna Rock (Twisted Sister).
- favorite items in your closet: J. Crew boots, black dress, orange coat, pink cardigan, ruffled white tee shirt.
- actors you want to make out with: Hugh Jackman, Daniel Craig, Christian Bale, Bear Grylls, Simon Baker (are we seeing a trend?)
- favorite foods/meals/recipes:
foods—chocolate, grilled cheese (I’m 5), chips & salsa, good crusty sourdough bread, zucchini (yes, really!).
Meals—I love me a good ol’ bowl of lentil soup (bonus points for recipes from The Barefoot Contessa), a big happy salad, curry dishes and of course, anything chocolate (molten chocolate cake = my idea of heaven).
Recipes—I don’t know! I watch a lot of The Food Network (especially while at the gym—weird?) and get about 90% of what I cook from Giada or Ina. True story.
- favorite movies (and TV shows):
movies—The Sounds of Music, Gone With the Wind, The Great Race, Casablanca, What About Bob.
Tv shows—The Office, The Mentalist, What Not To Wear, Burn Notice, The Closer
Naturally Caffeinated Family asked...
how about where would you like to travel (and why=)): I’d really like to go all over—I know, a lot to ask, right? I guess there are some places I’d love to go more than others. I really want to go to Scotland because my mom’s family is Scottish and that would be a really neat experience. I’ve always wanted to go to Italy and am pretty sure you could park me there for 5 years and I’d be OK with that. It just seems hands down magical. I didn’t mention this in my tip 5 listed above, but, I’d really like to go back to the Virgin Islands—my mom had a friend with a house there so we went a lot when I was younger and those trips are hands down some of my greatest memories. I’d really like to go back and re-live that and share it with my husband. I’d love to go to Argentina because I think Patagonia would be so neat to see and hike and do all that. And the South Pacific—I mean, hello, beaches for miles? That’s my kind of place!
favorite ice cream flavor (an important question): Mint chip. Always has been.
if you could do anything (when we grow up) what would you do?: I want to be a mommy and a writer. Honestly, being a travel writer would be amazing.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Really James Cameron, really?
(psst, spoiler alert)
So, in efforts of being a good sport, I donned my 1980s Ran Ban -esque 3D glasses and followed the masses to go see Avatar. Since everyone and their brother is telling me "omg, it's the greatest movie ever".
Please note that I'm not really a sci fi movie person. I was totally lost in Star Trek having never seen an episode and it's just not my genre, but, I'll usually go see it and end up liking it. I had high hopes for this especially since I had sclepped everyone to see Sherlock Holmes the day before I wanted this to be a movie we would all enjoy.
So, we paid the damn $13 each (highway robbery I tell you) and took our seats.
And then I checked out after about 30 minutes. I tried to enjoy it--I really, really tried. I wanted to enjoy it. I like basically every movie I see, I'm pretty easy to please in that regard. I went in there with an open mind and thought if nothing else it's a few hours away from the house.
And it was. But, it's hard to enjoy 2.5 hours of political statements being crammed down my throat. Seriously, James Cameron, we get it: go green, love the earth, we get it.
Although I'm sure that nerds around the world were rejoicing: alien sex, alien sex!
That might have been a little much.
But, who am I to judge? I'm the girl that finds Borat wildly offensive yet hilarious nonetheless. I'm not on The Academy, I've never taken a film course, obviously, I know nothing.
Expect that blue alien sex was just a little much for me. I'm not saying it's not a great movie, it just wasn't up my alley. And I really can't get over the alien sex.
So, in efforts of being a good sport, I donned my 1980s Ran Ban -esque 3D glasses and followed the masses to go see Avatar. Since everyone and their brother is telling me "omg, it's the greatest movie ever".
Please note that I'm not really a sci fi movie person. I was totally lost in Star Trek having never seen an episode and it's just not my genre, but, I'll usually go see it and end up liking it. I had high hopes for this especially since I had sclepped everyone to see Sherlock Holmes the day before I wanted this to be a movie we would all enjoy.
So, we paid the damn $13 each (highway robbery I tell you) and took our seats.
And then I checked out after about 30 minutes. I tried to enjoy it--I really, really tried. I wanted to enjoy it. I like basically every movie I see, I'm pretty easy to please in that regard. I went in there with an open mind and thought if nothing else it's a few hours away from the house.
And it was. But, it's hard to enjoy 2.5 hours of political statements being crammed down my throat. Seriously, James Cameron, we get it: go green, love the earth, we get it.
Although I'm sure that nerds around the world were rejoicing: alien sex, alien sex!
That might have been a little much.
But, who am I to judge? I'm the girl that finds Borat wildly offensive yet hilarious nonetheless. I'm not on The Academy, I've never taken a film course, obviously, I know nothing.
Expect that blue alien sex was just a little much for me. I'm not saying it's not a great movie, it just wasn't up my alley. And I really can't get over the alien sex.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Getting to know you....
My nanny (yes, I had a nanny--it was only for like 6 months after my parents divorce and neither one of them could figure out what to do with me, so, enter, a nanny. And she was awesome) used to sing that song from The King & I to me all the time. I still love it. It makes me smile.
Anyways, I have major blog block and since I doubt you really want to hear about my latest shopping spree (I heart Target) running drama (ummm, it was 20 degrees on Saturday--I never thawed out, and it's supposed to be 14 this Saturday. Kill me now) and the fact that I killed a pan of brownies over the weekend (true story), I thought I'd open this bad boy up for some good ol' fashioned Q&A. What better way to start off the new decade, right?
Let's get to know each other better!
So, ask away (keep it clean, kiddos) and I'll answer later this week.
XOXOX
Anyways, I have major blog block and since I doubt you really want to hear about my latest shopping spree (I heart Target) running drama (ummm, it was 20 degrees on Saturday--I never thawed out, and it's supposed to be 14 this Saturday. Kill me now) and the fact that I killed a pan of brownies over the weekend (true story), I thought I'd open this bad boy up for some good ol' fashioned Q&A. What better way to start off the new decade, right?
Let's get to know each other better!
So, ask away (keep it clean, kiddos) and I'll answer later this week.
XOXOX
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Honestly, where is Michael Westen when I need him?
True story: my husband and the sis in law somehow got roped into driving a moving van of death from California to Texas over the weekend. Mi padre is getting rid of some furniture and lo and behold, gifted it to us (pretty much our Christmas gifts). Hey, I'm not turning that down--this is some fancy pants stuff and I had a high school teacher who taught me very well that "if it's free, it's for me".
Nevermind that we didn't measure anything in our house before leaving. Nevermind that our house is already nearly bursting at the seems. Mere details my dear, mere details.
Clearly, we're all geniuses.
Now, over Christmas, there was a super nice little blizzard that worked its way across the country. Soooo, from Flagstaff, AZ to Denton, TX the moving van of death had to drive over layers of snow and ice. And, they may have gotten stuck in snow outside Wichita Falls in which I've been told it was 50/50 if they were just going to leave the truck. Awesome.
All this to say that last night, after re-scheduling due to the weather, we finally had everything ready to unload the beast.
Until the key broke off in the lock. It broke off. O-F-F. Off. I've broken a key off in a lock before (at work, ahem), but thanks to some pliers, we were good to go. Not in this case--the key was shoved into the lock.
Genius idea? Get a drill. Drill it out.
Fail.
Next idea? Hit it with a hammer. At 8:00PM. Our neighbors were not pleased.
My idea? What would Michael Westen do? Get spray air, turn it upside down and freeze the lock off (seriously, watch Burn Notice). There's CVS .50 miles from the house. My idea was not warranted.
Instead? Get a grinder and slice the thing off. We put on our own little fireworks show. And my husband is pretty sure he burned his finger. Ahhh, nothing like the smell of burning metal.
This whole fiasco took like an hour. No one was thrilled.
Good thing to know? The lock we put on the beast is pretty much indestructible, the manufacturer should be proud.
I need Michael Westen on speed dial. Obviously.
Happy New Year y'all!
Nevermind that we didn't measure anything in our house before leaving. Nevermind that our house is already nearly bursting at the seems. Mere details my dear, mere details.
Clearly, we're all geniuses.
Now, over Christmas, there was a super nice little blizzard that worked its way across the country. Soooo, from Flagstaff, AZ to Denton, TX the moving van of death had to drive over layers of snow and ice. And, they may have gotten stuck in snow outside Wichita Falls in which I've been told it was 50/50 if they were just going to leave the truck. Awesome.
All this to say that last night, after re-scheduling due to the weather, we finally had everything ready to unload the beast.
Until the key broke off in the lock. It broke off. O-F-F. Off. I've broken a key off in a lock before (at work, ahem), but thanks to some pliers, we were good to go. Not in this case--the key was shoved into the lock.
Genius idea? Get a drill. Drill it out.
Fail.
Next idea? Hit it with a hammer. At 8:00PM. Our neighbors were not pleased.
My idea? What would Michael Westen do? Get spray air, turn it upside down and freeze the lock off (seriously, watch Burn Notice). There's CVS .50 miles from the house. My idea was not warranted.
Instead? Get a grinder and slice the thing off. We put on our own little fireworks show. And my husband is pretty sure he burned his finger. Ahhh, nothing like the smell of burning metal.
This whole fiasco took like an hour. No one was thrilled.
Good thing to know? The lock we put on the beast is pretty much indestructible, the manufacturer should be proud.
I need Michael Westen on speed dial. Obviously.
Happy New Year y'all!
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Good things (even though it's NOT snowing)
Don't even get me started on the non existent snow. I went to sleep last night (let's re-phrase this, I laid in bed stressed out and all sorts of anxious over crap I can do literally nothing about) fully expecting to wake up to at least ice outside mi casa. No luck. Just rain. Boooo on rain!
Moving on (snow!).
Today we're moving around some furniture to make room for my grandma's piano (nope, I can't play a single note) thus moving my dinky desk into our bedroom and creating a little spot for me to write (no, the husband is not aware of this fact.. and I might have promised the desk to Rachel. Oops). Because after all, it's been a full year since I really took the time to even think about writing, and after all, this little ol' blog started because I was writing and want to be an author. Sure, no creative writing classes for me, and sure I haven't been as dedicated as I should be, but, that's OK. The story isn't going anywhere and goshdarnit, I will get a manuscript completed. And soon (much thanks to the sis in law who will serve as my in house editor on this project).
So, there's a good thing.
And, I ran 8 miles of speed intervals this morning. Did I mention I hate intervals? Well, I do. A lot. And now my damn IT band hurts, but, nothing some ice and stretching can't fix. Hopefully. Solo 16 miles this weekend (bo-ring).
Another good thing.
Oh, and Sam has inspired to me attempt (key word here) to become a Marathon Maniac next year (gulp). Who would have ever thought, I mean, really? It was a mere 14 months ago that running 5 miles had me laid up on the sofa for the rest of the day. Honestly, y'all, if I can run a marathon (albeit slowly) then anyone can achieve their fitness goals--ya just gotta do it (we won't discuss weight loss, but, moving on).
Good thing.
And, I'm wearing a fun new sweater today (that will get dirty whilst moving furniture, but, whatever).
Good thing.
Who knew?
What good things can you celebrate today? If I can find good things, we all can :)
Moving on (snow!).
Today we're moving around some furniture to make room for my grandma's piano (nope, I can't play a single note) thus moving my dinky desk into our bedroom and creating a little spot for me to write (no, the husband is not aware of this fact.. and I might have promised the desk to Rachel. Oops). Because after all, it's been a full year since I really took the time to even think about writing, and after all, this little ol' blog started because I was writing and want to be an author. Sure, no creative writing classes for me, and sure I haven't been as dedicated as I should be, but, that's OK. The story isn't going anywhere and goshdarnit, I will get a manuscript completed. And soon (much thanks to the sis in law who will serve as my in house editor on this project).
So, there's a good thing.
And, I ran 8 miles of speed intervals this morning. Did I mention I hate intervals? Well, I do. A lot. And now my damn IT band hurts, but, nothing some ice and stretching can't fix. Hopefully. Solo 16 miles this weekend (bo-ring).
Another good thing.
Oh, and Sam has inspired to me attempt (key word here) to become a Marathon Maniac next year (gulp). Who would have ever thought, I mean, really? It was a mere 14 months ago that running 5 miles had me laid up on the sofa for the rest of the day. Honestly, y'all, if I can run a marathon (albeit slowly) then anyone can achieve their fitness goals--ya just gotta do it (we won't discuss weight loss, but, moving on).
Good thing.
And, I'm wearing a fun new sweater today (that will get dirty whilst moving furniture, but, whatever).
Good thing.
Who knew?
What good things can you celebrate today? If I can find good things, we all can :)
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Resolutions, Resolutions
Y'all know I did exactly 0.5% of my 2009 resolutions so, obviously, "resolutions" do not work for me. Mainly, because if you tell me to do something, there's a 95% chance I won't do it. Yeah, it's hard to motivate me (pretty shoes, cake and or shiny pink things? I'll do whatever you want). I'm stubborn, I'm aware of it.
But, ya know that commercial that's on TV right now for Special K about "you'll know when you're ready"? Well, after months of trying to lose weight and each week saying "I'll lose it before my birthday" (and then failing), I kind of had an "a ha" moment the other night. Yes, it took me a long time to lose the weight last year and it only took a few months to pack it back on. I'm not happy with me and that's what struck me the other night. I am ready. I'm ready.
Two days into my "new life" (this is what we are calling it since 'diet' makes me freak out) and I think things are looking up. I think just mentally being "ready" is a huge help. No idea why I wasn't "ready" between September-November, but, whatever. I'm "ready" now.
I fully intend to rock a cute swimsuit this summer. Mark my words kiddos, mark them.
Another "a ha" moment? I love to write. I've always known that, but, at this point in my life after lots of reflection and prayer, it's pretty much not only my childhood dream, but, what I am meant to do (besides run a ton of marathons next year and eventually be a mommy, obviously). So, SP=writing.
Can someone find me a job doing that everyday, please? K. Thanks.
Any 2010 resolutions? Any "a ha" moments?
I'm off to play in the snow! (I am so excited, I'm like a damn child)
loves!
But, ya know that commercial that's on TV right now for Special K about "you'll know when you're ready"? Well, after months of trying to lose weight and each week saying "I'll lose it before my birthday" (and then failing), I kind of had an "a ha" moment the other night. Yes, it took me a long time to lose the weight last year and it only took a few months to pack it back on. I'm not happy with me and that's what struck me the other night. I am ready. I'm ready.
Two days into my "new life" (this is what we are calling it since 'diet' makes me freak out) and I think things are looking up. I think just mentally being "ready" is a huge help. No idea why I wasn't "ready" between September-November, but, whatever. I'm "ready" now.
I fully intend to rock a cute swimsuit this summer. Mark my words kiddos, mark them.
Another "a ha" moment? I love to write. I've always known that, but, at this point in my life after lots of reflection and prayer, it's pretty much not only my childhood dream, but, what I am meant to do (besides run a ton of marathons next year and eventually be a mommy, obviously). So, SP=writing.
Can someone find me a job doing that everyday, please? K. Thanks.
Any 2010 resolutions? Any "a ha" moments?
I'm off to play in the snow! (I am so excited, I'm like a damn child)
loves!
I realized I'm the whitest person at my gym
For real. Like, hi, I'm a ghost. I was wearing black capris and caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and whoa--it's not attractive. Need sunless tanner stat.
This California girl has lost her glow (and, she's petrified of skin cancer).
Sad times.
But, at least (hopefully) I won't have chunks of my skin and moles carved out of me--unlike my anti-sunscreen father who's had like a gillion pre cancerous spots removed. He will never learn (he's also super dark and I got my mom's Scottish whitey-ness).
Despite that little fun fact, I have happy news (I know, did you expect anything happy from me today? Probably not):
1. A great blogging friend will be at Catalina to cheer me on. I got all teary and misty about it (yes, overly emotional girl). I'm just so excited. She's such a great friend and she and her husband recently found out they are expecting a little boy! I cannot wait to meet her!
2. My dear friend of mine who struggled with infertility for years had a sweet baby boy earlier this year (I need to have a daughter so she can marry her son) and she and her husband got a Christmas surprise--they're expecting again! I'm so happy for her because she wasn't sure she'd ever have ONE baby, let alone two. YAY!
(a lot of talk about babies, huh? But, babies are sweet, we love babies)
3. Operation Jack starts on Friday! As always, feel free to donate (and spread the word!). Sam is doing something amazing, challenging, slightly crazy and really inspiring. Become a fan of their Facebook page and keep up with what he's going. It's a great cause.
That's all for today! Fingers crossed for snow!
This California girl has lost her glow (and, she's petrified of skin cancer).
Sad times.
But, at least (hopefully) I won't have chunks of my skin and moles carved out of me--unlike my anti-sunscreen father who's had like a gillion pre cancerous spots removed. He will never learn (he's also super dark and I got my mom's Scottish whitey-ness).
Despite that little fun fact, I have happy news (I know, did you expect anything happy from me today? Probably not):
1. A great blogging friend will be at Catalina to cheer me on. I got all teary and misty about it (yes, overly emotional girl). I'm just so excited. She's such a great friend and she and her husband recently found out they are expecting a little boy! I cannot wait to meet her!
2. My dear friend of mine who struggled with infertility for years had a sweet baby boy earlier this year (I need to have a daughter so she can marry her son) and she and her husband got a Christmas surprise--they're expecting again! I'm so happy for her because she wasn't sure she'd ever have ONE baby, let alone two. YAY!
(a lot of talk about babies, huh? But, babies are sweet, we love babies)
3. Operation Jack starts on Friday! As always, feel free to donate (and spread the word!). Sam is doing something amazing, challenging, slightly crazy and really inspiring. Become a fan of their Facebook page and keep up with what he's going. It's a great cause.
That's all for today! Fingers crossed for snow!
Monday, December 28, 2009
I have a case of the Monday's
So, please, hang with me.
I survived Christmas and the husband and Rach somehow made it safely back to Dallas with the moving van of death (more on that later)--snowstorm and closed gas stations notwithstanding. Anyone want to take a stab at how much it costs to fill up a 50 gallon diesel tank on I-40? Yeah, me either.
We had a nice holiday. Got to spend time with our nephew (who told me I'm his favorite aunt--I firmly believe that this is because I control the airplane--my dad took him to the airport= I control the airplanes... I don't know, he's 3).
I'm glad to be home. Although, it's entirely possible that I will have to move back to California and beat the boys off my niece. I haven't seen her in two years and holy hell, my sister and I are both pissed at her because we never looked that good as a teenager--or now for that matter. Brat. She's gorgeous and I want to throw things at her. But, mostly protect her from boys.
I ran up a mountain with my dad. And when I say "ran" I mean I ran for 1 minute and then keeled over on the trail for 5 minutes repeating this cycle for 45 minutes until I had given up and turned around. Also, running down a mountain? Not smart. Not smart at all.
I forgot how hilly my hometown is. My 10 miler turned into a 7.3 miler because my IT band was about to explode. And, also, running longer distances in a small town is really hard--you have to loop the damn town--it was weird. And I got really bored running the same loop.
My hometown has a lot of mid 20 aged drifters. Again, weird. I saw more "kids" and by "kids" I mean 18-30 years old bumming around than I've ever seen in my life. Beach town, yes.
I managed to clean out my mom's storage unit. And now I'm having a full on panic attack about it and having a major case of regrets. Seriously was up all night panicking (which explains why I didn't run this morning--I don't function well on 3 hours of sleep...and it was 21 degrees out). This is a problem.
I did find my grandpa's WWII harmonica that he may or may not have taken from a Japanese soldier. We don't really know if that's true or not, but, in any event, I got it after he died and hadn't seen it in years. So glad to have that back with me.
Let's not forget that the one damn thing I really want are those damn onesies. Did I find them? No. Did I cry my eyes out about it last night and pray upon prayer that I'll find them when I sort through the boxes this weekend? Yes. Am I freaking out that I might have accidentally chucked them? Yes.
My pups are exhausted from a week at doggie day care and it's kind of nice to have them mellow. I'm exhausted from a week of holiday festivities.
When I flew home yesterday, the servicemen and women got upgraded to first class for free. I thought that was really nice. My dad flies first class a lot and he always gives his seat to someone in uniform if they're on the flight (and coming to and from Dallas, that's pretty common). I thought it was really nice that they got to get upgraded. I don't know if this is standard, but, it really should be.
Yesterday, my grandma fell and broke her hip. She broke her hip in May of this year as well. This is not the best.
My aunt got a speeding ticket driving in from Arizona. This is funny for several reasons: she was in a rental car and so my cousins couldn't help with the driving and because she is stubborn and wanted to make a specific time, she didn't want to stop, etc. On the last trip out, she whacked her side mirrors (yes, plural) off. I love my aunt, so, this isn't me being mean, this is just funny because it would happen to her (0r me).
My nephew (and by "nephew" I mean my mother in law) gave me a box of See's Candy for Christmas. Best.Gift.Ever.
I apparently am spawned from a group of vegetarians because guess who didn't get to go to In-N-Out Burger (again)? The anger I tell you, the anger. And for cryin' out loud, you can get a grilled cheese.
It's OK. I'll survive. Only a few months until Catalina. And if we don't go to one on that trip, I swear it's not going to be pretty.
My brother in law needs to hurry up and propose to his girlfriend so we can all go to the wedding in Hawaii. Yes, she's Hawaiian. And pretty awesome to boot. Is it bad that I saw a swim suit the other day that I really want to buy for this 500 years in the future wedding in Hawaii? Because if I'm going to Hawaii, I need a cute swimsuit.
Sad question, why on earth were there swimsuits at the store? It's supposed to snow here tomorrow. And I can't even try it on because I'm about 500 lbs beyond the point of even thinking about trying one on. Ugh.
But it was really cute. And not skanky. I can't stand skanky swimsuits. Plus, I don't want to traumatize other beachgoers.
We have no plans for New Years. Because we're boring old married people. Last year, we went on a weekend getaway to Austin, but, this year, because diesel is like $500/gallon, we have no $$$ and will probably do exactly nothing. Not that I'm really upset about that or anything, but, even after a week "away" it would be really nice just to go somewhere with my husband. Considering this whole jobless thing has him in a grrrreat mood, I think a little mini vacation would be perfection.
I got a bunch of books on writing for Christmas. Which is good because 500 years ago I started a book. And then I got a real job and a mortgage and decided I didn't have time to finish it. Even though my biggest dream in life is to be a published author. Seriously, bigger than my dream of being BFF with Baby Spice and trust me, that was a big dream.
I have new dreams now. Like publishing a book, being a mommy (specifically having a little girl to torment my nephew), running lots of marathons (maybe even BQ-ing one day in the far distant future) and having a nice little vacation home in the mountains to spend the holidays at.
We found a little lot in SE Oklahoma for not that much $$, but, the problem is, we'd have to build a little house and um, that costs lots of $$$$. Why doesn't Sears still sell houses in a box?
Pretty ambitious for a one income household, huh?
Anyways, I have the Mondays. I want to be at home in my home with my puppies. But, I get to spend the afternoon taking photos with my BFF.
Not a bad way to end the Monday.
Hope y'all had a great holiday and have recovered from the egg nog!
xoxox
I survived Christmas and the husband and Rach somehow made it safely back to Dallas with the moving van of death (more on that later)--snowstorm and closed gas stations notwithstanding. Anyone want to take a stab at how much it costs to fill up a 50 gallon diesel tank on I-40? Yeah, me either.
We had a nice holiday. Got to spend time with our nephew (who told me I'm his favorite aunt--I firmly believe that this is because I control the airplane--my dad took him to the airport= I control the airplanes... I don't know, he's 3).
I'm glad to be home. Although, it's entirely possible that I will have to move back to California and beat the boys off my niece. I haven't seen her in two years and holy hell, my sister and I are both pissed at her because we never looked that good as a teenager--or now for that matter. Brat. She's gorgeous and I want to throw things at her. But, mostly protect her from boys.
I ran up a mountain with my dad. And when I say "ran" I mean I ran for 1 minute and then keeled over on the trail for 5 minutes repeating this cycle for 45 minutes until I had given up and turned around. Also, running down a mountain? Not smart. Not smart at all.
I forgot how hilly my hometown is. My 10 miler turned into a 7.3 miler because my IT band was about to explode. And, also, running longer distances in a small town is really hard--you have to loop the damn town--it was weird. And I got really bored running the same loop.
My hometown has a lot of mid 20 aged drifters. Again, weird. I saw more "kids" and by "kids" I mean 18-30 years old bumming around than I've ever seen in my life. Beach town, yes.
I managed to clean out my mom's storage unit. And now I'm having a full on panic attack about it and having a major case of regrets. Seriously was up all night panicking (which explains why I didn't run this morning--I don't function well on 3 hours of sleep...and it was 21 degrees out). This is a problem.
I did find my grandpa's WWII harmonica that he may or may not have taken from a Japanese soldier. We don't really know if that's true or not, but, in any event, I got it after he died and hadn't seen it in years. So glad to have that back with me.
Let's not forget that the one damn thing I really want are those damn onesies. Did I find them? No. Did I cry my eyes out about it last night and pray upon prayer that I'll find them when I sort through the boxes this weekend? Yes. Am I freaking out that I might have accidentally chucked them? Yes.
My pups are exhausted from a week at doggie day care and it's kind of nice to have them mellow. I'm exhausted from a week of holiday festivities.
When I flew home yesterday, the servicemen and women got upgraded to first class for free. I thought that was really nice. My dad flies first class a lot and he always gives his seat to someone in uniform if they're on the flight (and coming to and from Dallas, that's pretty common). I thought it was really nice that they got to get upgraded. I don't know if this is standard, but, it really should be.
Yesterday, my grandma fell and broke her hip. She broke her hip in May of this year as well. This is not the best.
My aunt got a speeding ticket driving in from Arizona. This is funny for several reasons: she was in a rental car and so my cousins couldn't help with the driving and because she is stubborn and wanted to make a specific time, she didn't want to stop, etc. On the last trip out, she whacked her side mirrors (yes, plural) off. I love my aunt, so, this isn't me being mean, this is just funny because it would happen to her (0r me).
My nephew (and by "nephew" I mean my mother in law) gave me a box of See's Candy for Christmas. Best.Gift.Ever.
I apparently am spawned from a group of vegetarians because guess who didn't get to go to In-N-Out Burger (again)? The anger I tell you, the anger. And for cryin' out loud, you can get a grilled cheese.
It's OK. I'll survive. Only a few months until Catalina. And if we don't go to one on that trip, I swear it's not going to be pretty.
My brother in law needs to hurry up and propose to his girlfriend so we can all go to the wedding in Hawaii. Yes, she's Hawaiian. And pretty awesome to boot. Is it bad that I saw a swim suit the other day that I really want to buy for this 500 years in the future wedding in Hawaii? Because if I'm going to Hawaii, I need a cute swimsuit.
Sad question, why on earth were there swimsuits at the store? It's supposed to snow here tomorrow. And I can't even try it on because I'm about 500 lbs beyond the point of even thinking about trying one on. Ugh.
But it was really cute. And not skanky. I can't stand skanky swimsuits. Plus, I don't want to traumatize other beachgoers.
We have no plans for New Years. Because we're boring old married people. Last year, we went on a weekend getaway to Austin, but, this year, because diesel is like $500/gallon, we have no $$$ and will probably do exactly nothing. Not that I'm really upset about that or anything, but, even after a week "away" it would be really nice just to go somewhere with my husband. Considering this whole jobless thing has him in a grrrreat mood, I think a little mini vacation would be perfection.
I got a bunch of books on writing for Christmas. Which is good because 500 years ago I started a book. And then I got a real job and a mortgage and decided I didn't have time to finish it. Even though my biggest dream in life is to be a published author. Seriously, bigger than my dream of being BFF with Baby Spice and trust me, that was a big dream.
I have new dreams now. Like publishing a book, being a mommy (specifically having a little girl to torment my nephew), running lots of marathons (maybe even BQ-ing one day in the far distant future) and having a nice little vacation home in the mountains to spend the holidays at.
We found a little lot in SE Oklahoma for not that much $$, but, the problem is, we'd have to build a little house and um, that costs lots of $$$$. Why doesn't Sears still sell houses in a box?
Pretty ambitious for a one income household, huh?
Anyways, I have the Mondays. I want to be at home in my home with my puppies. But, I get to spend the afternoon taking photos with my BFF.
Not a bad way to end the Monday.
Hope y'all had a great holiday and have recovered from the egg nog!
xoxox
Friday, December 18, 2009
In which I accidentally join another sorority
Let me explain, in high school I didn't even know what a sorority was (I mean, I did, but, well, whatever). No one I knew was Greek, I had no idea. Had noooo desire to be Greek. I was more of a "can't we all be friends" type (read: closet hippie). Plus, I was really scared of the idea of hazing.
Enter college. A college in the South(ish). A fancy snotty people college. OMG, OMG, OMG, I must be in a sorority. OMG, OMG, OMG. Must look cute every single day. Must make "friends" (since you weren't allowed to actually be friends) with every single sorority girl I see. OMG! I would have jumped off the Brooklyn bridge into a sea of fire if that's what these people wanted me to do. No joke.
And my roommate's cousin was a member of (enter most popular sorority of your choice here) and we were sooooo going to be pledge sisters together and I was already friends with a girl on my rowing team who was also in said sorority and OMG the girl I was with at the meet and greet is from California too (shocking, I know). Soooo meant to be.
Fast forward three months later, my mom died, I missed rush, had to be in a sorority sooo badly that I did spring extended bidding and I think we can all agree that was a mistake. Hated sorority life like you would not believe (although, I did meet my best most amazing friend thanks to it, hi love!).
So, at the end of the day, I'm not a sorority girl. Just not meant to be a group setting like that (also, why I'm scared to death of joining Junior League and my co-workers are driving me batty to join). Just not for me. And honestly, I'm a teensy bit jealous of people that had awesome sorority experiences and are still close with their sisters--I wish I'd had that. But, anyways.
Fast forward several years and I'm a married lady living in a respectable neighborhood with an optional HOA and everything. And I want to get to know my neighbors and have playdates with their kids (you know, when we get around to procreating and all) and bake cookies and the whole nine. I'm such a grown up. And there's even a women's club! Score! I'll get to meet people.
And then because I'm a commitment phobe, I never go to the meetings (even though they have my $50) and I never go to anything because I'm scared of everything and everyone and I never go. And I know exactly .05% of my neighbors (and refer to them by names such as 'angry man' and 'cute old guy with the dogs').
So, when I get an e-mail asking for co-hostesses for the holiday party I think "this is perfect! I can cook! I can party! I'll meet a lot of people at once and wow them with my awesome baking skills, and I'll be all friendly and co-hostessing". So I sign up. Because obviousy this is perfect.
And then there's a set menu. And because I don't check my e-mail 500 times a day or have a Crackberry, all the items I've ever even heard of on the menu are taken and I have to cook pickled shrimp.
It's like being initiated, I'm guessing. I passed, because everyone ate the shrimp (and my kitchen still smells like vinegar) and the main hostess is holding my Santa platter hostage which I can only assume is some sort of weird hazing ritual in which I must drive by everyone's house wearing only jeans and a bra and then the platter will be returned. Or something like that.
When I show up to the party, I'm wearing a black dress, black boots and fancy Anthro necklace--I think I look pretty darn fancy. I am wrong. I am a shlep. It's totally like rush. I'm getting the up and down from the other hostesses and I'm pretty sure I failed that test--considering my wedding ring is not 5.8 carats, I'm not blonde and I don't frequent a tanning salon.
Yet, I still think I'm "in" because everyone hugged me and told me they were glad to meet me at the end of the night (which was 11:35PM, by the way)--but maybe that was just the booze talking?
I'm still not sure what I've gotten myself into, but, hey, at least I know a few of the women who live in the neighborhood.
I guess I'll have to wait and see if I ever get that platter back....
Enter college. A college in the South(ish). A fancy snotty people college. OMG, OMG, OMG, I must be in a sorority. OMG, OMG, OMG. Must look cute every single day. Must make "friends" (since you weren't allowed to actually be friends) with every single sorority girl I see. OMG! I would have jumped off the Brooklyn bridge into a sea of fire if that's what these people wanted me to do. No joke.
And my roommate's cousin was a member of (enter most popular sorority of your choice here) and we were sooooo going to be pledge sisters together and I was already friends with a girl on my rowing team who was also in said sorority and OMG the girl I was with at the meet and greet is from California too (shocking, I know). Soooo meant to be.
Fast forward three months later, my mom died, I missed rush, had to be in a sorority sooo badly that I did spring extended bidding and I think we can all agree that was a mistake. Hated sorority life like you would not believe (although, I did meet my best most amazing friend thanks to it, hi love!).
So, at the end of the day, I'm not a sorority girl. Just not meant to be a group setting like that (also, why I'm scared to death of joining Junior League and my co-workers are driving me batty to join). Just not for me. And honestly, I'm a teensy bit jealous of people that had awesome sorority experiences and are still close with their sisters--I wish I'd had that. But, anyways.
Fast forward several years and I'm a married lady living in a respectable neighborhood with an optional HOA and everything. And I want to get to know my neighbors and have playdates with their kids (you know, when we get around to procreating and all) and bake cookies and the whole nine. I'm such a grown up. And there's even a women's club! Score! I'll get to meet people.
And then because I'm a commitment phobe, I never go to the meetings (even though they have my $50) and I never go to anything because I'm scared of everything and everyone and I never go. And I know exactly .05% of my neighbors (and refer to them by names such as 'angry man' and 'cute old guy with the dogs').
So, when I get an e-mail asking for co-hostesses for the holiday party I think "this is perfect! I can cook! I can party! I'll meet a lot of people at once and wow them with my awesome baking skills, and I'll be all friendly and co-hostessing". So I sign up. Because obviousy this is perfect.
And then there's a set menu. And because I don't check my e-mail 500 times a day or have a Crackberry, all the items I've ever even heard of on the menu are taken and I have to cook pickled shrimp.
It's like being initiated, I'm guessing. I passed, because everyone ate the shrimp (and my kitchen still smells like vinegar) and the main hostess is holding my Santa platter hostage which I can only assume is some sort of weird hazing ritual in which I must drive by everyone's house wearing only jeans and a bra and then the platter will be returned. Or something like that.
When I show up to the party, I'm wearing a black dress, black boots and fancy Anthro necklace--I think I look pretty darn fancy. I am wrong. I am a shlep. It's totally like rush. I'm getting the up and down from the other hostesses and I'm pretty sure I failed that test--considering my wedding ring is not 5.8 carats, I'm not blonde and I don't frequent a tanning salon.
Yet, I still think I'm "in" because everyone hugged me and told me they were glad to meet me at the end of the night (which was 11:35PM, by the way)--but maybe that was just the booze talking?
I'm still not sure what I've gotten myself into, but, hey, at least I know a few of the women who live in the neighborhood.
I guess I'll have to wait and see if I ever get that platter back....
Thursday, December 17, 2009
I got nothin'
Nothing exciting to share--other than the fact that I can eat my body weight in chocolate these days. Which is saying a lot considering I'm just packing on the lbs like a damn bear going into hibernation (OK, smart asses, obviously, the chocolate eating explains the weight gain, I've figured that much out).
If you want to see the chocolate hoovering, it's best to pick a spot near the trail (but not on the trail, as I won't be running and eating...or running at all, but, that's neither here nor there) near my house and wait. The best shows are at 5:15PM or 2:30AM. Your pick. Either one is hilarious.
Other than that, my life has been filled with not running (I ran Tuesday)--I'm taking a break this week. Ish. I'll be chomping at the bit tomorrow, I know it. I've got a jam packed winter/spring race schedule, and I want to be in tip top runnin' shape--which includes not getting burned out (oh, and running 40 miles a week... yikes!). So, this week, I'm vegging. Ish.
I have a full running schedule next week that includes runs along the beach and in the mountains (did that just totally blow your mind? Beach and mountains? Yes, yes, California is that cool) and am really looking forward to it.
Plus the fact that my dad has warned me that he intends on dropping me off on fire roads down the mountain and meeting me at the top. In his truck. Sure. He took "trail run" really, really literally.
So, it's OK to take a few days and relax. I'll be grateful for this descision later on.
Besides, it gives me time to ponder other things in life--like the fact that I've never played a video game--like one hooked up to a TV--like PlayStation and all that. Never. Is this weird? Am I missing something?
Hmmm... Another thing to ponder... Check out my tips for a happy and healthy holiday (yes, I have advice...occasionally).
Happy holidays y'all!
If you want to see the chocolate hoovering, it's best to pick a spot near the trail (but not on the trail, as I won't be running and eating...or running at all, but, that's neither here nor there) near my house and wait. The best shows are at 5:15PM or 2:30AM. Your pick. Either one is hilarious.
Other than that, my life has been filled with not running (I ran Tuesday)--I'm taking a break this week. Ish. I'll be chomping at the bit tomorrow, I know it. I've got a jam packed winter/spring race schedule, and I want to be in tip top runnin' shape--which includes not getting burned out (oh, and running 40 miles a week... yikes!). So, this week, I'm vegging. Ish.
I have a full running schedule next week that includes runs along the beach and in the mountains (did that just totally blow your mind? Beach and mountains? Yes, yes, California is that cool) and am really looking forward to it.
Plus the fact that my dad has warned me that he intends on dropping me off on fire roads down the mountain and meeting me at the top. In his truck. Sure. He took "trail run" really, really literally.
So, it's OK to take a few days and relax. I'll be grateful for this descision later on.
Besides, it gives me time to ponder other things in life--like the fact that I've never played a video game--like one hooked up to a TV--like PlayStation and all that. Never. Is this weird? Am I missing something?
Hmmm... Another thing to ponder... Check out my tips for a happy and healthy holiday (yes, I have advice...occasionally).
Happy holidays y'all!
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