Pickerington's Place

2011-12-30T00:51:00.001-04:00

Family Update:

Since the last post several years ago, here are some updates:

We now have 2 beautiful daughters - Iz is now 10 and Abby is almost 2.
We are still in the same house; I think this is the longest we have been in one residence since we were married last century.
Still have Baby Cat and some fish. We've added a loach and a very cute hamster named Rubarb.
I've knitted some awesomely cute and cozy things like hats, scarves, blankets, drink cozies and the like.
We've had some personal events thrust upon us in the past 2 years that have tested our family, but have made us stronger and closer together.
I've finally started painting more rooms in our house.
My best friend moved to Florida (yeah for her, sad for me.)
my cooking has improved thanks to older cookbooks - love trying old recipes

That's all I can think of right now. Take care everyone and I hope 2012 will be a winner for everyone!

Daily Led Zeppelin

2009-01-31T19:04:00.001-04:00

It's been a while...

Today, as I'm sitting in my local coffeshop catching up on work, the music is a CD of Zeppelin - Awesome! I guess that makes up for the days I've missing my Daily Led Zep.

Snowbound

2009-01-30T20:31:00.002-04:00

We've had a lot of snow this past week. Honestly, I think Izzy's been home from school more times this month than she's been to school. I guess her spring break's going to be cut short.

In other news, been hanging out on Facebook lately. I don't have much time to post to the blog anymore. The thing with the internet, there are so many applications and sites and programs to make your life "easier" but what I've found, they take up so much time, is any time really saved?

dreary thoughts for a dreary day....

When will spring get here?

Thank You!

2008-11-11T19:40:00.002-04:00

To all of the men and women who proudly serve in the US Armed Forces, THANK YOU.
To all of the men and women who have given their lives, so my freedom can live on, THANK YOU.
To my father, grandfathers, and uncles who have served our country, THANK YOU.

Clarification

2008-10-31T17:10:00.011-04:00

I don't know where people get the idea that I'm not voting... I never said I wasn't voting.

I am going to vote! That gift is too precious to waste - far too many lives have been sacrificed to give me that right to cast a ballot and make my voice heard. I still believe in the system and know that the voice of the people will win, eventually.

Here is what I said on Oct 4th:

**Disclaimer: If you know me, I really don't endorse Repubs or Democrats. Were the election held today, I wouldn't cast my vote for either party or candidate. It is time for a change in Washington.

I've added the emphasis today. I am planning on voting. but on that date, I didn't want to vote for a R or D. There are 14 candidates running for president in Ohio. Contrary to what the media leads us to believe, there are more than 2 political parties in this nation. Unfortunately, money whores in both parties have corrupted the system and have made it virtually impossible for third party candidates to make legitimate entries into our political system as guaranteed by our constitution...Article II Section I:

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United States, at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty five years, and been fourteen Years a resident within the United States.

Anyone that meets the above should be able to run. However, money keeps most of the population from running. It's a major expense that most of us cannot afford, including fully qualified people who would make darn good presidents.

Our founding fathers didn't agree with each other and yet knew there was a need for more than one voice. Our country's great history is ripe with variety in view points. New parties were formed when change was needed. Some lasted longer than others; others have evolved through the decades to meet the needs of the country and people at the time. Just look at the many evolutions of the "Progressive" parties in our history. If the people didn't change and demand other parties to represent them, we'd probably be controlled by Federalists and Whigs today, rather than Republicans and Democrats. Things change.

It's time for a change in Washington and the country. I'm not happy with the way things are running and too many Americans are getting thrown under the bus. I call my representatives, I keep up on what they are voting for and against and what they are passing off onto our country. It's not going to be too long before anarchists and rebels are going to take over -- we can't let it get that far. The change has to come from within.

I still haven't made up my mind who I'm going to vote for. It's down to two candidates and I'm praying for guidance. I pray everyday for our country's safety and that people will make a clear-conscience decision when they vote. A vote based on the candidate that best represents their own beliefs and not a vote based on color, gender or promises that won't be granted.

Today, I was planning on voting early, but there are still some state issues and local candidates I need to investigate. But of course, this is Ohio, and from what I hear, it's pretty easy to commit voter fraud, so I probably could have cast more than one ballot, if I wanted to. I want to be sure my vote counts, and frankly, I'm not sure that it will in this election. I really don't want to vote on a machine; I work with computers every day - I know things can go wrong. There are lawsuits still wet from the printer ink just waiting to be handed out on November 5. Give me the paper ballot any day.

I am very hurt by the massive hysteria that stems from some shady, almost Marxist, ideas that are slowly creeping over this country. What I see everyday in the news and in real life breaks my heart for this country. We are at a crossroad and as citizens we must decide the course we are to take next. One road can lead to prosperity, one to the repression of all that our founding fathers held dear. Today I am not convinced the road to prosperity is found in either major candidate.

I feel truly blessed to be born a citizen of the United States; for 232 years, our country is blessed by God. No other nation in the world has experienced what we have gone through, and so many want to be like us. I know how fortunate I am, how fortunate my family is, and most importantly, my daughter is to be born in this country. That alone gives her more advantages than most of the female population of the world. I hate to see her opportunities squandered away because "the government" thinks it knows what's best for her, rather than me and her father.

If you've been a long time reader of my blog, you know that I like to keep things somewhat light and happy, but this election has been festering for a while. Is it any wonder since candidates have been in our faces for the past 2 years? What's also frustrating is the daily phone calls - 5, 6, 7 or more daily. I know I'm not that popular, it's the parties and organizations calling me only because I'm in a "swing state." It's driving me nuts! So to you, long time readers, I hope you can forgive this intrusion into crazytown for a while. I sense there are so many pressures building up and it's got to come out somewhere, not just with me but with our country as a whole.

My wish is for Americans to wake up and see what a bountiful country we have. My wish is for people to see what opportunities are around the corner if you just look. My wish is for people to see and understand that if we slowly let extremist ideas creep into our daily life, it won't be too long before we have nothing left, and we will be left with shadows of what once was. My wish is for people to make a difference and move this country forward in prosperity and with pride. If you don't like this country, you have two options. Make change happen or get out. Nothing is keeping you here. I know for sure, no other place in the world is like our country, and I'm afraid that people won't realize that until it is too late and our freedoms are gone.

Couldn't resist....

2008-10-31T07:46:00.001-04:00

Subject: Notice to All Employees......just in case.

As of November 5, 2008, IF President Obama is officially elected to
office, our company will install a few new policies which are in keeping
with his new, inspiring issues of change and fairness:

1. All salespeople will be pooling their sales and bonuses into a common
pool that will be divided equally between all of you. This will serve to
give those of you who are underachieving a 'fair shake.'

2. All low level workers will be pooling their wages, including overtime,
into a common pool, dividing it equally amongst yourselves. This will help
those who are 'too busy for overtime' to reap the rewards from those who
have more spare time and can work extra hours.

3. All top management will now be referred to as 'the government.' We will
not participate in this 'pooling' experience because the law doesn't apply
to us.

4. The 'government' will give eloquent speeches to all employees every
week, encouraging it's workers to continue to work hard 'for the good of
all.'

5. The employees will be thrilled with these new policies because it's
'good to spread the wealth.' Those of you who have underachieved will
finally get an opportunity; those of you who have worked hard and had
success will feel more 'patriotic.'

6. The last few people who were hired should clean out their desks. Don't
feel bad, though, because President Obama will give you free healthcare,
free handouts, free oil for heating your home, free food stamps, and he'll
let you stay in your home for as long as you want even if you can't pay
your mortgage. If you appeal directly to our democratic congress, you
might even get a free flatscreen TV and a coupon for free haircuts
(shouldn't all Americans be entitled to nice looking hair?) !!!

**Note: this was a forward email... rather than pollute my friends and family with FWD messages, I thought this was the way to go!

And now for something Completely Different

2008-10-13T22:08:00.005-04:00

Big news in the household yesterday. Izzy lost another tooth! This time the Tooth Fairy remembered to collect the teeth before Izzy woke up!

Also - my pets are getting into the Hallo'een spirit: Baby Cat has a nice little bat to play with.
And the fish love to hide behind the Glow in the Dark sign.

Not much, I know, but I lost my "spooky" box of decorations during one of our moves. I had some really cool stuff like funky black cobweb lace, black lights and my favorite: skull wind chimes. So, for the inside of the house, I've pretty much had to start over collecting fall decorations. I just have some ceramic pumpkins and some other fallish decor to take me through Thanksgiving. Oh, and we can't forget "Shawn" -- he's our scarecrow (Watch the Bounty Hunter episode of Psych and you'll know why we named his Shawn.)

Happy October everyone!

First PC now Politics

2008-10-04T10:41:00.004-04:00

I tell ya, this just must be Piss off Skiingred week.
I've seen this email from several sources - too many places to let it go without saying something.

Here is the link to this email / article that's been floating around

My response:
You've got to be kidding me...

Of course the "Test" the author describes is based on high school / college teenage girls, which are well known to be the most vicious of all girls.

Too pretty? You know, it really makes me proud of the fact that I have GROWN UP and can see things as an adult and not be snarky or catty just because someone is born with better looking genes than me. Excuse me for gaining some maturity for seeing past the looks, and looking at what's inside. (Hmm... kinda like Dr. King's message that one day we will look at the content of one's character and not judge them on their skin? )

What's wrong with having a beautiful woman serve in office? Granted, many woman political leaders have not always been "beautiful," so does that mean that only U-G-L-Y women can run for office?

Too confident? Um, wasn't that the whole point of Title IX and other programs back in the 70's? To build up confidence in girls and have them participating WITH boys? Wasn't that part of the reason for getting shoulder-padded women out of the home and into jobs, to show young ladies that you "can do more than just be a housewife"? Weren't our mommies building up our confidence on the "Take your Daughter's To Work Day"? (Oh gee -- that's another issue all in itself with a myriad of problems and consequences.)

Embarrassment? So, what, men have not said or done anything embarrassing? Gerald Ford falling down? Biden telling a man in a wheelchair to stand up? Ken Lay in charge of a company that was totally corrupt and telling everyone it was fine? Christopher Cox letting the SEC get out of control on compainies and their trading practices? What's the percentage of men who were in charge of mortgage and banking firms that approved bad loans in the first place?

ANYONE can make a mistake and be embarrassment. More importanly, ANYONE can step in and take the necessary steps to make a change.

So now that someone is actually up for the second highest position in the world AND has brains, AND is a successful family woman (that's been working outside of the home just like those feminists wanted back in the day) we have to dog on her because she is too pretty and has great gams? How petty is that?

I wonder what Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B Anthony would say about all of this? All of their jail time and rallies about getting women to the polls must have been for naught, then. What would they have thought that less than 100 years after the 19th amendment passed, that a woman could be next in line for the Presidency (yes, I'm including Ferraro in here.) Forget Steinem and others who just want to put men down (apparently because of the fact they are men), and put other women down (apparently for the fact they are women getting along in a "man's world") and focus on the fact that we should be voting someone in who we can rely on to do what's right.

After all, if someone voted for a candidate just because said candidate were a women I think it would negate all of the hard work my grandmothers and women's rights advocates have done in the past. If one voted for a candidate just because he's black, wouldn't that also negate all of the suffering, strikes and deaths that happened during the Civil Rights movement? Get real people, this is the 21st century. The new generations of young adults get it... they don't see race or gender as an issue unless hold-outs from last century's movements make it one.

Oh, wait, maybe the people making the big stink can't get over the fact that Hillary is not a candidate any more and that Peolosi is only 3rd in line, rather than 2nd. Get over it, people. Time to move on.

Must.... get....to... Yoga.... class..... for .... stress.... relief.....

**Disclaimer: If you know me, I really don't endorse Repubs or Democrats. Were the election held today, I wouldn't cast my vote for either party or candidate. It is time for a change in Washington.

Why PC drives me Crazy!

2008-10-01T20:45:00.007-04:00

I know a lot of people pour forth everything (and I mean everything) that they are thinking of when they post on their blogs and sites. However, I don't think I have the luxury of doing so. For one, I know that once something goes online it never goes away... it will be there forever and ever, Amen. Also, because of my profession, I feel that I have to be very careful about what I post. Call me paranoid, call me crazy, call me Shirley (as in Shirley, you can't be serious), but one just has to be careful.

With that said, I got a revelation this weekend and I can't let it go.

Earlier this month, I went to the Meet the Teacher night at my daughter's school. No biggie, got lots of great info about the work they are doing this year. But also got updates on the class parties. I found out that the school is not allowing kids to dress up for Halloween. (Apparently that will offend some people who attend the school) Also, the school is not doing any kind of "Fall" celebration. Heaven forbid it looks like the school celebrates some pagan form of the harvest with cider and crunchy leaves as decor. Oh, and there is a "winter" celebration - no Christmas.

Fine. If you want it that way, it's fine. Don't have kids dress up because it could scare and damage others who don't believe in Halloween. Never mind the fact that today's celebrations of Halloween have been so Walmartized and are so far removed from the more traditional religious practice of preparing for All Soul's Day on November 1. In meeting lots of other parents and children at school, I'm guessing that the percentage of students in the building who don't "practice" Halloween is pretty small.

Fine. You don't want to celebrate the fall harvest. (OK, so this could be partly due to budget cuts, but in light of the no Halloween rule, it's a likely scapegoat.) It's not like America's schools are planned around an agrarian calendar and most kids were let out of school to help the family gather in the harvest so they could live through the winter. Oh, wait, they are... so why are we not celebrating the harvest and all the bounties that fall has to offer. (Such as the bean soup at the Bob Evans Festival!)

Fine. You want to take Christmas away, and replace it with happy snowmen and neutral angels. That's OK - we'll celebrate it joyously in our home with our family.

But... don't send home a fund-raiser for the school and with overtly religious messages. Here's what I'm talking about. The school is selling wrapping paper/chocolates/gifts as a fundraiser. They get a shiny catalogue and have to beg and bother relatives (Begger's night, anyone?) to purchase things. There is the obligatory festive red and green paper with non-offensive stars and snowmen and chubby Santas. I couldn't find any mangers or Holy Family images, though.

Imagine my surprise when I turned to pages 14 and 15 and found Chanukah gifts, including blue and silver paper and a chocolate dreidel.

Let me clarify something here: I don't hate the Jewish culture, nor do I want to deny the right for Jews to celebrate. I applaud the company for being capitalistic and including a variety of products to reach the most potential customers. I say let each celebrate to their own desires.

What I don't get is how a holiday that is obviously for religious reasons can be included when a "perverted" version of Christmas has to be included in the catalogue as well. Where are the mangers and "Reason for the Season" wrapping papers? I'll even give you the fact that many people who don't believe in Jesus nor are Christian observe some parts of the Christams holiday with a tree or exchanging gifts. But as far as I know, Chaunukah is only celebrated by those who are Jewish. Please, someone correct me if I am wrong, but I don't see any secular connection to this holiday.

Does anyone else see the hypocracy here? Am I just a hate-monger?

I'm half tempted (actually about 3/4 tempted) to call into the school and voice my concerns. But I know I'd get the typical "we have no control over what the company puts in their catalogues." By not offending others, do they realize they are offending me by not including our celebrations as well.

Shirley, they can't be serious!

Another Update

2008-09-21T20:56:00.002-04:00

Well, the winds were a howlin' last week. I have never experienced anything like it - warm, high-speed winds. Izzy almost got carried away by the grill cover as it got caught up in a draft.
Last week was very tough for many. I know how bad it was for those in Ohio, I can't imagine how destructive Ike was on the gulf coast. My thoughts and prayers go out to all affected by this weather.

It was strange last week at work. So many of my students couldn't get to school - probably the first time for a digital school we've had so much out at once.

Most of the schools here in central Ohio have already used 3 or 4 calamity days. If this winter is anything like last winter - some kids are going to be mighty unhappy about missing spring or summer break to make up for schools.

Enough about the weather -
Here's a link to my daughter's YouTube premier. She's been asking about being on youtube forever, but, thanks to Dateline, I was very careful about what was shown on the camera. I can just see some sicko oogling pink socks or something. Stupid pervs.

Happy Birthday to Chad

2008-09-08T20:28:00.003-04:00

So today we celebrated Chad's birthday - Happy Birthday Sweetie - This was the cake this year. Mom does such a good job finding cool things to put on the cake... Buckeyes this year. Very chocolately - YUM! (For those checking in on the skinny blog, I only had a very small piece - portion control portion control)

And speaking of the Bobcats -- how about the first 2.5 quarters of the game on Saturday -- pretty cool, huh?

Right now, Izzy (or Bella as she now prefers to be called) is playing Mario Kart.. that's such a fun game. Chad also got Rockstar for his birthday. It's another winner... who knew that one can get booed off the easy level before the chorus kicks in on "Wanted Dead or Alive"? I have yet to make it to the good parts of the song.

Off to another busy week in this household!

Summer Recap

2008-08-24T22:09:00.008-04:00

Well, after a very exciting, adventuresome, and most of all relaxing summer, it's back to the "real world" today for me. Iz is heading back to school on Tuesday. Ahhh... I'll be back to regular postings and catching up on my blogger buddies this coming week.
So, to recap some of the highlights of the summer - what better way to do so in pictures!

Izzy wasn't keeping up with her chores, so ...

We had to put her in the stockade for a while.

Just kidding :) The above are from our trip to the state fair. Here are some more!

Since we got there so early (with great parking thanks to Chad) Izzy was one of the first people on the Giant Slide. I guess it's too much of a hassel to take down each year, so they just leave it up year round.

Chad, who was too chicken to ride the farris wheel!

View of the fairgrounds from the top of the ferris wheel.

The famous butter cow!

Seeing the bright cardinal next to the finch was a cool color combination.

In the butterfly exhibit, they were very active. I was able to get a few good pics before they fluttered away to find another flower.

Go Bobcats! Had to get a pic of this cute kitty for my alma mater.

Yum!

In one of the craft barns, the Ohio Statehouse made out of Legos. In the back you can see some of the downtown Columbus buildings, also made out of Legos. Lake Erie and a model of the fairgrounds was on hand as well.

And, in honor of the Convention that is going on this week....

Eeek! Is this summer going fast or what?

2008-07-30T23:40:00.002-04:00

A few last vacation pics.... me an Axl chillin at the Hard Rock

And the beautiful beach at sunset!

We made it back OK - safe and sound, even if our GPS took us in a round-about way through Atlanta! It was such a long drive back home...

Since our vacation, we've just been chilling out. Izzy's been staying up really really late, and getting up really really early, which doesn't leave me much time to sleep, but it's still summer, so it's no biggie.

We took a trip down to our mother's for a day. It was so good to see her - we had a good time, and came home with more stuff then we brought down, including some amazing BBQ and slaw.

Next week, we are off to the state fair... I've heard they are doing Mashed potatoes on a stick this year... There is nothing like "fair food" and it's probably a good thing it only comes around once a year.

Other than that, not much going on... just enjoying the lazy days of summer with some fresh brewed sun tea!

Days 2, 3, and 4

2008-07-10T00:24:00.007-04:00

Why is it that time just flies by you when you are on vacation! So far, so good. Only one trip to the ER; Izzy woke this morning (well before the Urgentcare places were open) with a bad pain in her ear. All I can say is that I am so thankful we have insurance! I can't imagine what we'd have to go through should our health care become socialized :) We were out of there in about 30 min from start to finish. But she is doing better and is cleared for swimming.

We didn't go swimming today -- I was a bit crispy. Yes, on my previous expeditions to the white sandy beaches I wore a big hat, shades, sat under an umbrella when possible, wore SPF 70, and still got burnt! I am not made for the sun, that's for sho'!

Dancing in the surf! I was amazed how clear the water was -- the blues and greens are not exaggerated in the photo! On Monday, I caught a fish with my bare hands (OK, it was only about 2 inches long, but still...) Tuesday, we saw a jelly fish in the water. I guess I should check to see how dangerous they are!

Below is the beach from Sandestin, looking to the East. Pretty crowded! The waves were very smooth on Monday when we went, but were a bit rough Tuesday. Izzy just loved using the boogie board and I was glad to see she was getting the hang of it! She really took to the waves :)

Izzy just loved the sand! We buried her... the tide was coming in, so we didn't get much of her covered before it washed away! I have never seen as much sand on one person as the amount that stuck to Izzy. She was still covered after we used the beach showers before the ride home. Sand sand everywhere!
Another cool thing we see almost every day -- jets flying overhead from Eglin AFB. I have absolutely no idea which kinds are flying overhead, but they are loud, fast and neat to look at.

On Wednesday we took a brief excursion to Jolee Island... not much but pines and Florida brush, but a few paths winding around. At one end, there was a pretty cool lookout over a small strip of beach looking towards the Choctawhatchee Bay. - My daughter the pirate!
This is the view of the Bay from the Pirate's roost.
Later today, we when to the Baytowne Village Wharf - some really cute speciality shops and restaurants! It wasn't too crowded during the day. As we were leaving, we wandered into a pottery place where you can paint your own pieces. I chose to do a tile with our name on it and Izzy chose a princess. Chad didn't do one of his own, but he did help Izzy. I think he was happy to be in the AC, though. (I thought Ohio could get humid at times, but it's nothing like here! Very hot and humid in the day.) After you paint your piece, they glaze and fire it overnight, so we'll see how it turnes out tomorrow! I think I found a new hobby -- the task of painting was so relaxing!

One last thing before I go for now...

There was this cool invention on the Wharf where you can shrink your kids to pocket size. Of course, we jumped on the chance to shrink Izzy! :)

We're here!

2008-07-06T22:54:00.003-04:00

We've been on the road for what seems like ages, and that was before we even got here. Our journey actually started last Thursday. We drove by this basket on the way up to our family reunion... it just amazes me each time I see this huge basket pop up out of the landscape outside of Newark OH.

The trip was LOOOOONG, but well worth it to see the view from our backyard. I really don't know much about the ol' Scottish game of golf, but I believe this is the 16th hole tee of some really nice course :) There is a placid pond / water hazard between two of the holes. Below, looking to the right off our back patio. Following, looking to the left. Just beyond the trees in the lower image, you can see the Choctawhatchee Bay.

So, how did we get here? Lots of driving in the car... We were up at the (some would say "butt") crack of dawn, loading up the cars. Turns out, Chad is quite chipper in the AM.

Izzy - not so much. This is how she spent much of the trip: Sometimes she coloured:

And sometimes she played the DS.

We saw many cool sites on the way down, drove through some pretty quaint Alabama towns and had a pretty good drive. Unfortunately, most of the pics I snapped from the car were either too blurry (Still trying to get the hang of the camera's settings) or were snapped when a car was passing by, blocking the view of what I was trying to capture. I did manage to get on of the "Basketbowl Lanes" -- Looks like a fun time!

More on what the house looks like and what there is to do (other than golf!) later. I leave you with a pic of our evening visitors. By the way there were walking, I'm guessing they'll stop by about the same time each night!

Vacation time!

2008-07-05T22:19:00.002-04:00

Just a few hours to go...

we'll be on our way to the sunny beaches of the gulf coast for a week long trip.... will keep my peeps posted as internet is available...

Hope everyone had a great 4th of July! At least, enjoying time with family and friends... life is too short to do otherwise :-)

Summer's Here, officially!

2008-06-20T22:25:00.002-04:00

First, the recap of my Spring Reading List:
* Enchanting Pleasures Eloisa James (419)
* The Naked Marquis Sally MacKenzie (349)
* Diary of a Wimpy Kid Jeff Kinney (217)
* I'm Ready for my Movie Contract: A Get Fuzzy Collection! (128)
* The Lost Duke of Wyndham Julia Quinn (371)
* Story Telling Tori Spelling (276)
* Miss Manner's Basic Training Miss Manners (174)
* McKettrick's Heart Linda Lael Miller (378)
* McKettrick's Pride Linda Lael Miller (378)
* McKettrick's Luck Linda Lael Miller (378)
* The McKettrick Way Linda Lael Miller (248)
* Vanished Karen Robards (396)
* Scent of Darkness Christina Dodd (400)
* An Inconvenient Book Glenn Beck (295)
* Mine Till Midnight Lisa Kleypas (360)
* Secret Societies ...and How They Affect Our LIves Today Sylvia Browne (225)

I'm really too tired to add right now - I don't have the page count. I've a few books I'm saving for our summer vacation, Twilight is one of them. It's killing me not starting that one now, but I know I need a good one for the beach.

We are heading off next month to the Gulf Coast of Florida (Fla-ri-da, as one of my roommates used to say) I'm very excited, although not looking forward to the gas bills on the way down. Good thing I'm not planning much other than sitting myself on the beach for the whole vacation. Of course, I'll be under an umbrella, wearing cover-ups, a BIG hat, and about 90 SPF sun block. I have yet to find 90, but I'm sure it's out there somewhere.

Since it's officially summer today, I guess that means that spring cleaning time is over (Yay!) Here's my last organizing of spring - my purse. We'll purses, actually. It got a little out of hand having 4, for different occasions, so I'm not down to ONE . Remember that scene in Breakfast Club where Allison dumps out her purse, it was kinda like that.

A 10 Commandments coloring page
Receipt from June 2006
An 8 in Wrench
pencils, sharpened, unsharpened and mechanical
A Subway gift card
A Sally Beauty Card (expired)
In the health department:

6 tampons
Deodorant (it fell apart when I opened the lid)
2 bottles of hand sanitizer
about 9 Ricola cough drops
a big tin of salve
band aid (unused)
various wet naps from BW3

an ipod
pens
old calendar from 2007
animal print notebook
Rosary and prayer book
assorted change
keys
and many other receipts that were too faded to read

I guess you could say I'm a pack rat. I'd reply that I'm well prepared.

Hope everyone has a good summer!

What Skii Chad and Izzy have been doing...

2008-05-16T21:23:00.003-04:00

Chad:
Golf
Poker
A bit more golf

Izzy:
Playing
Losing teeth
Reading
Playing

Skii:
Grading
Knitting
More Grading
Facebook
Cleaning house
and Grading

More updates once this month is over...

SpringSpringSpring

2008-04-10T06:42:00.002-04:00

OK - I've been working on a project for work and enjoying the lovely spring weather. So until things calm down a bit, I probably won't be posting much. I love this time of year... the mornings have been very cool - perfect for snuggling under the covers. Anywho, I came across the strangest show the other night - Secret talents of the stars. Dude, give me Circus of the Stars any day - this show was just weird. Here's the clip I tuned to. Man, this is just weird.

I'm not a fool, are you?

2008-04-01T08:45:00.002-04:00

Yes - April Fool's with a 6 year old is just funny (I had chocolate for breakfast before you got up (1.5 second pause) APRIL FOOL'S!)

And speaking of fools - I honestly don't know how this guy did this with a straight face for this long.... Enjoy!

Hello and welcome to Politics 2008

2008-03-28T10:36:00.003-04:00

Well ladies and gentlemen it's just about been settled now. We have our choice of McCain the Liberal or Barack Hussein Obama. The choice between these two is SO VERY DIFFICULT! I mean do I take the liberal baby killer or the liberal war guy? Neither is a fiscal conservative and both will SPEND this wonderful country of ours into oblivion. I'm so glad there are only 8 more months until the election of one of these two WONDERFUL candidates.
So democrat, republican, repubocrat, or demolican? Take your pick cause it's all the same in the end. However I'll tell you my money is on you know who...

OK I'm so very tired of writing this shite that I require repose. Hope everyone has a wonderful day and remember November is right around the corner...

what's up?

2008-03-25T21:10:00.003-04:00

Uh, not much here...our baby is with her Nona for the week (Spring Break - which I don't get this year) Pretty quiet around the house...

What's up with American Idol? Tonight's show is just not doing it for me... still catching up on the DVR as I write this... Part of it may be that I feel incredibly OLD hearing the songs they choose (their birth year.) Back in 1987 I was playing atari and learning how to use our new-fangled VCR, and these kids were just born. Ugh! I can't believe that some of the contestants are still in the game. They have the Beatles, I think they should do some Zeppelin one week - that would be pretty cool.

OK - that's about it for now... Happy Tuesday!

Update: What kind of song did David A choose? I don't get it.

Update II: just saw David Cook... AWESOME! He's got my vote.

Easter Sunday

2008-03-23T20:31:00.001-04:00

Hope everyone had a good Easter!
If you don't happen to celebrate the day, I hope your Sunday was warm and relaxing!

Housekeeping....

2008-03-21T00:04:00.004-04:00

Yeah! Happy Spring!

More spring cleaning... last night, I spent about 4 hours organizing my office. I thought it was going to take me only about 90 min. or so, but I got a little distracted looking at the books and reorganizing them. All 592 of them. That doesn't really seem like a lot -- but those were just the ones in the office. There are more stashed here and there throughout the house.

When I unpacked the boxes, I just put them on the shelves because I wanted to get it done... now I'm happy to say they are organized! The Christie's are all cozy in one spot...my romances are all happy in love together...my classic lit books are pondering away in their own shelf...my dictionaries and grammar books (I have a tendency to acquire old dictionaries and old skool grammar books - New word for the 1930's: atomic)... my children's lit section is growing... Such a relief to have them all organized!

While I was organizing, I did miss American Idol... heard it was quite an upset! Apparently, the DVR taped Survivor over AI - so I didn't get to see the results. O well. Life goes on.

Our Baby Cat kept hanging around the office -- never knew he was a book worm. Here he is checking out the shelf before I add the beat poets and autographed books.

And here he is deciding which of the fiction to peruse.

Baby Cat is dismayed by the mess... honestly, they started out all stacked up nice and neat, but you know how rowdy the romance books can get! They just didn't want to stay in line.

While we are on the subject of books, here is the fall/winter recap list, so I can start anew for spring:

Where Is He Now? Jennifer Green (357)
Desperate Duchessess Eloisa James (384)
Big Boned Meg Cabot (280)
Size 14 Is Not Fat, Either Meg Cabot (344)
Talk Nerdy to Me Vicki Lewis Thompson (357)
An Affair Before ChristmasEloisa James (388)
The Devil Who Tamed Her Johanna Lindsey (354p)
The Forgotten Man: A New History of the Great Depression Amity Shlaes (464)
Tangled Up In You Rachel Gibson (384)
Queen Of Babble Meg Cabot (307)
Consent to Kill - Vince Flynn (465)
Then Came You Lisa Kleypas (371)
The Nanny Diaries - Emma McLaughlin & Nicola Kraus (368)
Suddenly You - Lisa Kleypas (375)
Ready or Not- Meg Cabot (238p)

If my math is right that's about 5156 pages... man, working during the day really cuts out of my reading time!

Why am I obsessed with books, I have no idea -- I just love 'em! The tactile experience, the smells of old books, the crisp pages - all just add to the joy of reading.

Happy Reading!

Chuck Norris

2008-03-13T08:57:00.002-04:00

Normally I don't listen to morning radio shows, just because, well, they are usually boring. Until I found Dave and Jimmy. These guys are hysterical! Here is one of their songs - I heard it in the car the other day, and had to pull over I was laughing so hard. It's up on their web site, and youtube.

Enjoy Chuck Norris!

What's all that white stuff?

2008-03-11T23:39:00.008-04:00

Remember that keyboard problem I was having with the letter C? Well, apparently that wasn't the only computer issue we were having. The power supply went kaput on our main computer, and instead of replacing the proprietary power part from Sony and pay for labor, it was actually cheaper to by a new tower. SO, now I am working with Vista (say it with me - OSX wannabe) for the first time, and trying to get programs and gear to work.

With that said, I now present our few images from the "Blizzard of 08" Last weekend, Columbus got a record 20.4 inches of snow. I think most of that ended up drifting in our yard. Here is what's outside our back door: (that's a 22 in drift - for the close-ups click HERE.)

And this is what I saw when I opened the Garage to shovel. Mind you, this was about 5 hours after Chad left for work, it was maybe 2-3 inches at 6 am.

That's about 8 inches of snow to shovel, and it was still coming down! I started to do half the garage so Chad could pull the car back in. See, I'm a good wife who was thinking about her man. Thinking that if he could get in the garage, he could shovel behind my car in case I had to leave the next day. Well, he ended up staying over at work since "no one" could come in to cover his shift. Not only did he have to stay late, but he had to go in earlier due to the time change. What this means -- Skii shoveled the whole drive! Whoopee! See, I told you I was a good wife!

I wanted burgers for dinner, but could barely see the Grill for the cool pyramids stacking up.

Oh, and remember the aforementioned new computer? I made a little movie on how Izzy and I made some snow ice cream. Apologies in advance for the lack of sound and the quality - I made it in about 5 minutes.

Let me tell you, that was the first time I can recall making homemade ice cream from snow. One taste, though, brought back so many good memories of the days I worked at TropicalSno (shaved ice with flavors) Our vanilla ice cream made my taste buds pop from the sweet texture... yum!

Enjoy!

Hurray for Spring!

2008-03-03T20:06:00.005-04:00

OK - so Spring isn't for another 17 days or so, but we just had to take advantage of the nice breezy weather today. At one point it was 66 lovely degrees. But this won't last long -- cold weather is right ahead of us. So, what did we do on this fine day? Cornhole! My dad made this awesome set for us (Thanks, Dad!) and we finally got a chance to set it up! Here are some shots:

And just so you don't think the entire household is a fan of the Steelers, here is a shot of the other board (my personal favorite!)

It's going to be a fun summer!

Rhyme and Reason have left the building... (or; stuff that's been happening lately.)

2008-02-22T23:19:00.014-04:00

OK - there really is no one topic for this post... I guess I ould just give lots of excuses for why I haven't posted lately, but I don't want to waste your time. (By the way, the "see" button on my laptop is not working at 100% so for missed letters - my sinere apologies!)

I tried to take a pi ture with my new camera of the Eclipse Wednesday night. Yeah, apparently, my camera must not like the ombination of cold and low batteries, becasue this is what I got:

(Insert jokes here about what it looks like)
When I realized the zoom wasn't big enough on my camera, I tried for the video amera that takes stills, but the battery was dead. Anyway, it was very kool to see the eklipse - red moon and all. The night was krystal klear - very beautiful with a dusting of snow on the ground.

Quite different from last night, when it was icy and snowy mix... I peeked out after American Idol was on (why didn't they put Josiah through! He was so much better than the other ones they put in the top 24!) It was strange, being out so late and it being so bright, because of the dim streetlights boun ing off the snow! Hang on a minute....

ccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccc

Yeah! I got the C key fixed!! Good ol' duct tape!

OK, where was I?

Oh, our house -- here is a lovely pic of the finished home!

I do want to get some better pictures, but I think I'll wait till the weather gets a bit nicer. Here is one of our kitchen -- I LOVE my kitchen and all of the beautiful cabinet spaces (maple - toffee stain)

And what the heck... here is one of our living room... I need some ideas for the back wall -- I don't want to paint or to change too much with the walls until we have our 1 year inspection, but at least it gives me ideas for what I could do. Step into my living room:

I'm so nosy -- wouldn't it be cool to have a site where you could just peek into people's houses? I'm one of those people who will look into open windows as we are driving by (so leave your curtains closed if you don't want anybody to see!) Ohh - love google image search: http://tinyurl.com/2zjlgr

Oh, and here's one of our BabyCat in my favorite chair:

Just finished the book The Forgotton Man: A New History of the Great Depression. Worth reading! I'm going to start reading more on FDR... yeah, apparently, he wasn't the nice guy that they taught us about back in grade school! It's a good read and very informative! Kind of spooky how history is repeating itself.

TV: What I'm watching now... I've gotten back into Days. If I can't watch it, I listen to it on my radio when I work.. it's one of those Weather Band / AM/FM/ TV 2-13 ones, so it picks up NBC quite well. I've been watching that show for EVER, and it amazes me how many character have SORAS. Let 's hope the writing gets better now that the strike is over.

American Idol: Not seeing a definite favorite this year, hard to get totally into just now - Once the top 12 or 10 is named, it will get much better. I do like Alexandrea, Brooke, Amanda and Syesha. Wasn't that just aweful how they voted Garrett off --just "hey how ya doing? It's nice to be here, but you have to go home now" Could you be any more abrubt, Ryan? Garrett wasn't one of my faves, even if he was from Ohio, but still... give the kid a break!

Jane Austen: Yeah! PBS is showing her stories on Sunday Masterpiece for the next few weeks. I have a bunch saved up to watch.

Survivor is getting better... was sad to see Yao-man go, but this should be an interesting season.

Now that Psych and Monk are over, guess I'll just have to watch the re-runs until the summer! Love Psych -- have I mentioned before how hot Shawn and Gus are?

And if you haven't seen this post on Castro by DG, it's a tear-jerker. And yes, we really did see him at Hometown Buffet tonight! Castro must like the American food buffet experience!

OK -- that's enough rambling for now...

L8r G8r!

The Day Izzy Almost Got a Butt Whoopin'

2008-02-07T22:51:00.000-04:00

Last night, as I was putting Izzy to bed, she made a startling statement. So startling, I was just floored to hear my daughter has a potty mouth.

Here's what happened... I get Izzy tucked in, with her stuffed animals and sleeping bag. She has her "fresh water," the closet is shut and bedtime story read. Now, it never fails that by the time I make it to the bottom of the steps, she has "one more thing" she wants to get to sleep. Trying to be proactive last night, I asked her if she needed anything else.

As her little head nodded, I asked "What, sweetie?"

She said, in the calmest voice, "kiss my ass."

My mouth dropped! I couldn't believe she would say such a thing for she usually refers to it as "the bad A word."

Izzy got a panicked look on her face and as I tried to explain that that kind of language is not acceptable, she started pointing to her forehead.

Then it hit me... she wanted me to "kiss my ash!"

The ashes left on her forehead from Ash Wednesday.

I guess kids to say the craziest things when they are missing two teeth!

Um, Change

2008-01-25T09:45:00.001-04:00

Yeah, I know it's been a while since the last post, but came across this vid this AM and thought I'd share.

Don't know who has more time on their hands, the politicians saying "change" or the guy who put this together!

In Memoriam

2008-01-06T21:11:00.000-04:00

I'll miss you Katt!

In his own words...

And another one... This one's Good!

2007-12-21T09:45:00.001-04:00

Second day of Christmas Songs....

2007-12-13T19:01:00.000-04:00

The Mullet, Mustache and Moue wish you Merry Christmas

2007-12-12T01:38:00.000-04:00

We're In!

2007-12-03T09:33:00.000-04:00

AYO - we in our new househol'

FINALLY - we moved last week. Everything is still in boxes, but slowly getting unpacked. It is such a relief, and now that we are back to some normality I can catch up with what all my dear blog buddies are doing!

I'll have pictures... as soon as I can find the camera!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T21:52:00.000-04:00

Today was rather quiet - with Izzy at Grandpa's for Thanksgiving, Chad and I had a very quite day. We saw Hitman and ate at the Waffle House.

Normally, I'd cook a great feast for today, but just about every pot and pan I own is sitting in boxes in the garage, waiting for their new home. They'll be moving on Tuesday, and I'll be following! Yes, the day is finally here - TUESDAY, folks, and we'll be in our new home! Praise the Lord, and thanks to St. Jude and Our Lady of Hope - we are finally going to be in our home!

About Hitman - if you are a 13 year old boy - this movie is for you... I think mainly because it was written by a 13 year old boy. The dialogue was just horrible ("My father raised grapes." Really, I hope they turned out to be nice responsible members of the grape society. I normally like my grapes grown.) There were boobie shots, but the main character, 47 didn't respond - I don't think he had a clue about women, much like 13 year old boys. Lots of blood flying everywhere. The one good thing (**Spoiler alert: The US was made out to be the good guy in the movie, for once.) Mainly I was disappointed because I thought the Hitman was going to be Vin Diesel, but I think he just produced it (Hey, how many bald, buff men are acting these days?)

As for the previews: I Am Legend looks to be an awesome movie. I am really hoping that it's not one of those "message" movies... I really don't want to see one of those. I'll have to read up about it, but definitely one I'd like to see.

Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving... we have so much to be thankful for!

Izzy's School

2007-11-01T20:25:00.001-04:00

So, Izzy decided to play school today. I did pretty well, but I think Tootsie roll needs some extra help.

Time to get writing....and a mummy

2007-11-01T08:35:00.000-04:00

Why I feel the need to do this during what will probably be one of the craziest months this year... I don't know, but it's something I really want to do!

http://www.nanowrimo.org/

In other news, Izzy was a mummy last night... I had fun making the costume - super easy. I found some muslin for 97c a yard, tore it into strips and pinned/knotted it to a black sweat suit. Well, it looked better on the hanger, and I didn't take walking into account, so much of it fell. I'm not sure if mummies had that much hair, but Izzy had fun in the costume!

Chad took her out for about 35 minutes -- she wanted to come back after about 15, but she trudged on. I think she had more fun handing out candy!

This is Izzy and "Shawn" our scarecrow. He's named Shawn because of his black vest. Fans of Psych will remember the bounty hunter episode and get the connection!

And the grapevine is whispering about my latest album - Skii Sings the Classics. Apparently two tracks have been released by an unnamed insider (you know who you are!) Who knows...more may be on the way!

Toothless!

2007-10-22T19:28:00.000-04:00

Congrats Izzy on losing your two teeth!~

Hope the tooth fairy brings you something cool!

Love,
~~Mom~~

What's Been going on with... Sports!

2007-10-17T22:34:00.001-04:00

Sunday before last, Chad took me to a Steelers game. I was a bit leery to go, since pretty much from birth, I've been a Browns fan, but the thought of going to a pro football game with Chad was exciting. It only took us a few hours to get to Pittsburgh, the drive Early on Sunday was quite pleasant. We parked about 1.5 - 2 mi from the stadium, and walked much of the way. By the way, I did get blisters on my tootsies - not fun!

Here are some pics from the day:

DG, this one is for you -- Not sure what building this is, but I loved the shape of it - the open middle and the arch.

I think this one is from after the game, but along the river boats were lined up, some 3 or 4 deep, to "tailgate." Can you call it tailgating if you are on a boat? I'm not familiar with nautical terms, but if you know what it's called - let me know!

More tailgating....

Skyline -

This is a fountain in the city -- I think right were the 3 rivers meet. We could see part of it from our seats. Personally, I think it's a bit phallic (and pink) but who am I to judge city art.

Chad and the stadium

We got there a *bit* early. It was very very hot in the sun, so we walked around the stadium for a while. I took this picture before our section was full -- loved the pattern.

Right after one of the touchdowns - the fans are wild! Off in the distance (to the right of the scoreboard) you can see the fountain. And about the scoreboard -- there are 2 bottles of ketchup on either side. After a touchdown, they tilt, the lids come off and Ketchup "pours" out of the bottles. I didn't get to see them close though. I wonder if that was Teresa's idea?

And finally, this is the condition that our neighboring fans left their seat. I think they went through about 7 bags of peanuts and several drinks. Before you can say it, no, it's not the trash from the people behind us - we were in the last row of the section with a wall behind us.

I ending up with probably a mix of sun poisoning (if that's possible while wearing 50 SPF) and food poisoning... ugh... so I was out of commission on the way home. Thanks Chad for driving.

Steelers won - Seahaws lost.

Interesting fact: did you know that during WWII, when most of the eligible men were enlisted, the Steelers and the Eagles combined to form the Steagles?

Don't forget to scroll down to get more updates - if you are curious!

What's Been going on with... the House!

2007-10-17T22:23:00.000-04:00

Good news, Good news! We are about 22 days from moving in to our new house!

I love the way it's turning out - I have so many cabinets - the carpet looks really cool, my flowers are pretty and we will finally have a bedroom with more than 9 inches between the side of the bed and the wall.

Don't have any recent photos on this computer, I'll post as soon as I get them!

Daily Led Zep

2007-10-17T22:22:00.000-04:00

Let me take you to the movies...

Houses of the Holy

What's Been going on with...My Car!

2007-10-17T21:58:00.000-04:00

And to continue the updates with what's been going on in my life... My car was hit the other day! I was turning left, the other van was turning right and decided my bumper would make a great target. He just bumped it and kept on moving. Luckily - Izzy was able to scribble down his license, I got a description of the guy (he looked right at me as he passed). I had to drive "downtown" to HQ to fill out a police report.

The plate came through to a 26 year old, who matched the description I gave. We have his address and info. No luck searching for this guy on google or even facebook. However, we did luck out with the county courts! Apparently, this guy has been quite busy while possessing criminal tools and doing other assorted driving crimes. 2004 was a good year - no reports (he must have been in jail, or out of the country, or something.)

So, without further ado -- here is the damage:

Personalized Glitter Graphics

And the winner is....

2007-09-29T00:07:00.000-04:00

It was a close call... but Baby Cat picked Kingcover as the winner! Yeah!

So as your prize, you get to pick one of the following songs and I'll put my own stylings on the song. Just ask DG and Chad -- it's a treat fur sure!

But, since Tiggysmom did get most of them right and came in second place-- I'll make a copy for her as well... so, if you both let me know the song choice, I'll get that right to ya!

But for those keeping track, here are the songs:

1. I don't know but I've been told, a big legged woman ain't got no soul
"Black Dog" Led Zeppelin

2. It lightens up my day, and that's oh so true/ together we're one, separated we're two.
"Girl You Know It's True" - Milli Vanilli

3. Dance go rush to the speakers that boom / I'm killing your brain like a poisonous mushroom
"Ice Ice Baby" Vanilla Ice

4. Feed it off an aux speak, grunt, no, strength, the Ladder start to clatter with fear fight down height.
"It's the End of the World as We Know It (and I Feel Fine) - REM

5. Act your age, mama, not your shoe size and maybe we could do the twirl
"Kiss" Prince

6. All I can say is that my life is pretty plain
"No Rain" Blind Melon

7. You got the peaches, I got the cream, sweet to taste, saccharine
"Pour Some Sugar on Me" Def Leppard

8. Reminds me of childhood memories where everything was as fresh as the bright blue sky.
"Sweet Child O' Mine" GNR

9. When you cheated girl, my heart bleeded girl / so it goes without saying "you left me feeling hurt"
"What Goes Around Comes Around" Justin Timberlake

10. Why don't cha be a man about it and set me free / Now you don't care a thing about me
"You Keep Me Hangin' On" Kim Wilde / The Supremes / Wilson Pickett/ Vanilla Fudge (Take your pick)

And speaking of Led Zep -- my daily Led Zep was "All My Love" Awesome song!

Thinks that make you say HMMMMM???

2007-09-26T18:56:00.000-04:00

Was doing some random browsing when I ran across this little gem. Quite interesting and just a touch on the bizarre side... Leave it to those freaks in NY to come up with some of this stuff...

This is artist Cosimo Cavallaro, explaining his work -- a bed with more than 300 pounds of sliced ham -- at a gallery in New York.

Never underestimate the power of Good Grammar

2007-09-21T08:13:00.000-04:00

8:04 am - Phone call: Caller ID says "Unknown"
Skii picks up the call. After a slight pause where I almost hang up, a voice calls out:
"Is Skii there?"

"This is she," I reply.

"Uh, is Skii there?"

"This is she."

"OK, thank you. I'll try later."

Click.

Grammar: another force to rid unwanted phone calls.

PS -- check out the contest below. SuperAwesomePrize!!!!!

Awesome Contest

2007-09-20T23:05:00.001-04:00

Recognize these?

OK - so here's the deal. Above are 10 lyrics from 10 different songs. You try to guess the songs. For those that get them all right (or at least one of them) I'll put your name in a hat and a winner will be drawn (probably by Izzy or the cat, whichever is closest.)

Wanna know what you're playing for? I'll sing your choice of song from the list... that's right folks, a personalized song by me, to you!

So... I'll give you until Sunday. Saturday, I'm going to the Ren Fest with Izzy so I'll be all turkey-legged out in my Elizabethan mode.

Good luck! And tell your friends!

MORE TIVO UNBOX from a MAN'S PERSPECTIVE

2007-09-18T21:06:00.000-04:00

I watched another TIVO unbox Pilot... THE BIONIC WOMAN... IT wasn't TERRIBLE... I mean it wasn't good by any stretch of the imagination but it wasn't so bad that my eyes bled or anything... I give it maybe 6 to 10 episodes... The problems are BIONIC WOMAN is not really all that hot... #1 thing if a show sucks you need a hot babe to make it better... #2 Plot was way way lousy... Bionic scientist falls for chick... chick has orphaned sister to take care of... chick can't marry and run off because of orphaned sister boo hoo.... REALLY COOL SEMI V CAR CRASH... Mad scientist makes his bionic woman bionic (hereto referred to as MACHINE PERSON # 2) Driver of semi was first bionic woman (hereto referred to as MACHINE PERSON #1) who has been supposedly killed in the opening scenes of the show... PROBLEM # 3 YOU CANT REALLY KILL A MACHINE PERSON... Finally in the end MACHINE PERSON #1 and MACHINE PERSON #2 duke it out on top of a roof. MACHINE PERSON #2 "realizes her potential" and decides to join the ranks of the machine soldiers... In my opinion this wouldve been enough but guess what THEY"RE GOING TO TRY TO STRETCH IT INTO AN ENTIRE SERIES OF CRAPPY SHOWS!!!! This one I think I'll probably have to skip... Hope you all enjoyed my review of THE CRAPONIC WOMAN!!!

Another reason why Tivo is great!

2007-09-15T23:18:00.000-04:00

I've said it before - Tivo rocks. Out of the random messages that pop up on the Tivo Central green screen, one caught my eye. The "Unbox" has some free previews of fall shows. (Of course, it took ages to set up because Unbox is through Amazon, and you had to link in your account, which I tried, but found out the Amazon account was with an old email addy, so the signup info went to a nonexistent address and but we got that part to work and then we had to link it with our Tivo account which the site was down, so yikes that's a lot to sync up but we got it working)
Get all that? Anywhoo...

We "purchased" the new show Chuck on NBC ($0.00 is charged to our account) - and this is definitely one I'll be watching. From McG, who's done some really cool shows, Chuck is so funny, one of the more promising new shows! Hopefully, it will deliver. If you get a chance, check out the pilot, (which I later found out is on the Amazon site.) Very funny show!

Speaking of funny shows, did anyone catch Psych -- I can't wait 'til this one comes back in January. Wasn't that shot at the end just great :) I'm not giving anything away... but Shawn in a vest..."it's hot...HOT" as he said. I'm keeping my fingers crossed they won't jump the shark too soon. Hopefully they'll keep it more Scully and Mulder, rather than Maddie and Dave.

I know I watch way to much TV, but I'm probably as excited for new shows as Phats is for college Football!

Out of the mouth of babes...

2007-09-15T23:02:00.000-04:00

At the gym the other day (Yes, I'm getting back in shape) Izzy is in the locker room with me. As she climbed out of a locker (no, I didn't put her in there - she went voluntarily) we had the following conversation:

"I want a mustache."

"Why would you want a mustache?" I inquire.

"So I can go in the boys locker room."

"And you'd want to go in the boys' locker room because...?"

"I just want to see if they have the same stuff as we do in here."

Kid logic is wonderful... never mind the fact that a 6 year old would look silly in a mustache... Izzy is convinced a mustache will make her pass as a guy.

I tell you - it's never a dull day with her around!

Another Year Older / Another Year Wiser (Not So Much)

2007-09-11T18:04:00.000-04:00

Well I turned 36 on 9/8. You know the old saying another year older another year wiser? Well for me it's not so much... Today I attempted to create a "myspace" page because my cousin's wife has one and you know I thought it was kind of cool and all... Evidently I'm WAY WAY TOO OLD for this... It was very annoying compared to plain old blogging. I couldn't get anything to update, I couldn't get anything to update... It was basically a pain in my 36 year OLD ass.
So I think I've come to the conclusion that 36 is a little too old to start messing with my space. I think I'll stick to the old folks version of my space... THE BLOG!!!
It wasn't a total wash because I found some really cool music from a guy who is from Columbus...

You can find a link to it here on my myspace page... The guys name is Wolfgang Parker...

OK I'm through whining about being old.... Later folks...

Saturday

2007-09-08T11:54:00.001-04:00

Last night we went to the local parish festival - it was so much fun! Although I rode a crazy ride that I honestly thought was going to fall apart, we had a great time! The 15$ "all day" ride ticket was the best investment of the evening. Izzy probably went through the fun house about 70 times, and rode the other rides about 20 times each. The food was great...

Thursday night, I had to run out to the store and found one of those kits you bake n make. While not as cool as shrinkydinks, the suncatcher was still neat to make. Izzy made a princess crown and trinkets, and with the leftover beads, we made an I. Quite stinky, but still fun to make.

And, while I'm still working on my outfits to post (the battery was dead, and could only get this last shot before I had to recharge) here is a pic of the scarf I made. The yarn was purple/black with little fuzzies on it... very cool and not something I could have done a year ago!

DG, I hope you are feeling better... still on the cold meds here, so that's why this post probably doesn't make much sense!

Later gaters!

How to annoy those that annoy you #24

2007-09-06T20:04:00.000-04:00

The next time one of those "Get an Online Degree in 2 years" ads on your pop up, just give them your annoy-er's name and phone number. Within minutes, they will have phone calls! And they will continue for several hours.

Trust me, you don't want to know how I found this out. (Thanks, Chad!)

Fashion Help!

2007-09-05T00:06:00.000-04:00

I just want to brag about the scarf I finished yesterday and what better place than the family blog. I found the yarn for 99C and it made about a 2.5 ft scarf for izzy I'll have to post the pic soon -- camera was out of batteries. Now, I'm working on wrist/arm warmers to take to work so I can type and keep my hands warm at the same time. I hope I don't run out of yarn, though.

Oh, and DG - how's your project going? Tied up yet? I'm anxious to see how you did.

Tonight I was going through my closet to see what outfits go together -- Since I have to go in to the office once a week, I'm a little perplexed about what goes together, and it's about time I took some fashion risks. I think tomorrow I'll post some outfits and my blogger audience can let me know what goes and what doesn't. Yes, I'm that bad that I'll let near strangers pick my clothes for me.

What's the rule on White after Labo(u)r Day? I mean, the weather is still in the 90's, so the "summer" flowy skirt would be perfect, but still - white after labor day? What's a girl to do?

EEK -- better get to bed - early day tomorrow!

fashionista's unite!

summer reading list

2007-09-03T16:13:00.001-04:00

Just listing the summer reads so I can add the fall reads in the side bar. Probably won't get to read as many since I'm busy with school but I never really kept track of what I read before. Should be interesting to see how many books I can read in a year!

Close to You Christina Dodd
It Happend One Autumn- Lisa Kleypas
Harvey & Eck - Erin O'Brien
HP and the Deathy Hallows- JK Rowling (Again!)
Can you Keep A Secret - Sophie Kinsella
Sugar Daddy Lisa Kleypas
Coming Out- Danielle Steele
Almost Like Being in Love- Christina Dodd
Harry Potter and the Deathy Hallows- JK Rowling
Open Season- Linda Howard
Stuck on You- Patti Berg
Just the Way You Are-Christina Dodd
The Big Question- Chuck Barris
Pants on Fire- Meg Cabot
Scandalous Again Christina Dodd
If You Could See Me Now - Cecilia Ahern
Tounge in Chic - Christina Dodd
Pleasure for Pleasure - Eloisa James
I'm In No Mood For Love- Rachel Gibson
Harry Poter and the Half Blood Prince JK Rowling
Every Boy's Got One - Meg Cabot
The Boy Next Door -Meg Cabot
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - JK Rowling

Slacker update

2007-09-01T23:04:00.000-04:00

Speaking of Slacker - ever see that movie -- some awesome little bits. So on to the update:

Izzy made it through the first day, and the first week. She did very well, a few fits about going over the spelling words (She is surprised that she actually has to study them), a few fits about less TV until the words are studied. But overall a good time. I LOVE working at home with the house to myself. Amazingly - I get A LOT of work done!

My work is going well. I had good news this week (a raise!). I have set some professional goals this year, so I'm really going to try to meet them.

Let's see...other updates... DG is here for a visit - yeah! Although I hope she doesn't get sick, I've been a little out of it. For some reason, me and Izzy usually get icky colds at the beginning of school -- must be all of the germs saying hi to each other. Speaking of germs - check this site out -GiantMicrobes -Kinda Cute (If anyone wants to order one for me, that would be cool, I think I'll avoid the Black Death and the Clap, though)

We caught a funny show tonight - The Whitest Kids U Know on Fuse. Yes, the same channel that brings you Pants Off Dance Off. Very unexpected comedy.

Had an awesome dinner tonight at a local Italian place. I must say, a bottle of wine shared amongst good friends definitely makes a meal. The food was delicious (even without the influence of wine), Izzy was amazing with her manners and the cannoli was divine.

Sorry for disappearing for so long, usually the first week of school is a bit hectic around here. I'll catch up with my favorite blog buddies!

Happy Dance!

2007-08-27T06:41:00.001-04:00

Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!

Oh, and someone (not Izzy) decided to wake us up WAY before the alarms went off! Ugh! Hope I don't fall asleep before she has to leave. OH wait, I'm too excited because
Izzy's going to school today!

Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today! Izzy's going to school today!
Izzy's going to school today!

OOPS!

2007-08-25T11:38:00.000-04:00

I just happened to check an old post of mine from way back in 2005 -- there was a list of 80's songs. Anyway, I check the link and it went to a very graphic men's gay porn site. According to the Waybackmachine the site changed not too long after I posted. So it's all good now -- I just didn't want to shock anyone.

Oh, that's reminds me -- I'd better check on some of the links I gave my students.... good thing there are some blockers in place, but you never know!

Back to cleaning the house -

Oi

9838

2007-08-23T23:07:00.000-04:00

Total number of pages - give or take a few - I read this summer. Dang it -- one more book and Ida broke 10K!

School School and School

2007-08-23T22:01:00.001-04:00

So - it's day 2 for me, and countdown 3 days to Izzy's first day. We met the teacher at her school... I must say, the educational system has certainly improved since my day. First, the building she is in is pretty new - very clean, open and kid friendly (low sinks, low fountains, colorful - etc.) I was surprised to see that the classrooms all had sinks in them... back in my day - we actually had to go to the bathroom to wash up! Depending on what classroom you were in, you either had to go right downstairs or allllll the way to the other side of the building and then downstairs to use the loo.

The teacher seems pretty nice - Izzy has about 25 kids in her class - a goodly number! There is a huge playground as well -- the most important thing about school you know! We found her roomy desk and cubby hole stocked with the Science and Math (Ohio standards edition -- train 'em early for the tests!) text books.

I think back to my first grade, which was in the newer "wing" of our school -- DG can correct me if I'm wrong, but I think our class was the first one to use the first grade room? In any case, there was new carpet in the room, and it didn't take me long to mess it up. See - we watched the telly for some daily (or weekly - I guess, my 6 year old brain doesn't really remember that part) exercises. But I knew I wasn't feeling well and Sr. Marie Rosaire had me do the exercises anyway -- as I was completing a round of toe touches - up came me breakfast and the carpet was never the same since. I'm sure they have replaced it since in the 26 years since I've been in first grade! Oh, and the spooky staircase behind the cloak room (as Sister called it )I always thought it was haunted. Like an escape hatch or something. LOts of things in that school kind of scared me (the talking Mary statue but that's another story.)

Ahhh the joys of school! (PS - see my very first post for more on what life was like in elementary school.

Daily Led Zep

2007-08-20T20:37:00.000-04:00

Heard "Fool in the Rain" at Quaker Stake and Lube.
Awesome song.

House Update

2007-08-20T20:27:00.000-04:00

Yeah! There be sheetrock in the house! I can't believe that it is really coming together... keep your fingers crossed that all goes well for the move, which looks to be about mid-october. Ugh.

Anyway -- we picked out the shrubbery (Knights of Ni not included) and flowers. Here's what we got:

3 Globe Arborvitae
1 Dwarf Lilac
1 Burning Bush
2 Pink Knockout roses
1 Red Knockout Rose
1 Hypericum
4 Coreopsis "Creme Brulee"
1 Pardon Me Daylily
2 Anemone (Nemo not included)

I can't wait to see it all together.

Update

2007-08-15T09:39:00.000-04:00

When I'm not finding new uses for duct tape, I'm thinking how sad and yet, exciting, that summer is coming to a close. I remarked to Chad the other day that I have spent 28 years of my life on a calendar that starts in September and ends in June. Most people don't follow that same calendar. Nonetheless, it is refreshing to start fresh each year.

Now for the updates. As promised in an earlier posting:

Our house
We now have siding! Yeah! With the trim and siding it's starting to look like a real home. The drywall should start either today or within in the next few days.

Izzy's antics
It is just too funny to follow the mind of a 6 year old. From slippers that bounce, to new nighttime routines (which involve sleeping at the foot of the bed and writing notes) it's a wonder I still have my sanity. But I wouldn't trade the experience for the world.

Customer Service
Why must it suck? Why do they have so many people answering phones that you can't get ONE direct answer? WHY WHY O WHY?

Jobs
See above... I just hope this year isn't as weird as last year in many respects.

The oxymoron "Federal Reserve"
I acknowledge that I have no financial sense, but why are we putting our money into an institution that is not part of the federal government and is not actually reserving our money. I don't get it. But I am researching more!

TV
Yeah! Another reason why the September - June calendar works - it fits with regular season TV. My TIVO is ready for new shows besides Spongebob and Cyberchase. But, the summer series (Psych and Monk for example) are good!

and cheese.
You didn't think I had anything to say about cheese now did you. Well, honestly, neither did I when I wrote the entry I just added it because I like the sound of the word - C H E E S E. So yesterday, when I checked out of Kroger and started to unpack the groceries, I found 2 huge containers of cottage cheese. What I am going to do with 48 oz of cheese, I don't know. I'm open to suggestions. Bonus points if you can combine the cheese and duct tape.

Another use for Duct Tape

2007-08-14T22:19:00.001-04:00

There are days I'm glad I moved away from the tri-state area. This is too funny!

still here...

2007-08-14T16:39:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the delay, folks. Our ISP has been out since last Thursday night. Much to report on, including, but not limited to:
Our house
Izzy's antics
Customer Service
Jobs
The oxymoron "Federal Reserve"
TV
and cheese.

Skii's Bits of Tid

2007-08-05T21:38:00.000-04:00

Kraft Spaghetti is darn good.

Is the 15% grocery bag deal from Office Max really a good deal? I mean I could fit a helluva lot of supplies in there, but should I spend the money? I did promise myself not to be any more note pads.... but I think that excludes binders and notebooks. Hmmmm.

There is one song in my head that I can't think of the title and it's driving me nuts -- something about burning or on fire...

If you can dodge a wrench, you can dodge a ball.

I find it odd that a hip hop group wants to party like a rock star.

Crisco works wonders on feet (bad pedicure at home incident - this cleared it up) Never underestimate the power of lard.

Milk is an awesome drink.

My very first email address, which happens to be from college, still works... however, I have no clue what the password is. Should be an interesting conversation with tech support about why I need to access an email address from 1993! (Facebook)

I am convinced that children are cosmic payback for all of the stress you put your parents through.

We need printer ink, so the 15% offer is looking better... I could toss in some post-its in the bag so the ink doesn't get lonely.

Billy Idol gets it -- I don't know why she doesn't get it.

I can't wait to move! I swear, once the toilets are working, I am seriously considering moving in regardless of what else needs to be finished.

Is the show Crossing Jordan coming back?

The Soup (on E) is a damn funny show!

I'm thinking about getting my Master's (halfway through one program) but I don't want to get another student loan to do it. Dilemma dilemma... plus if I start a new program, I'd have to pass the GRE... I don't think I could do another standardized test ever again!

If I pay myself $1 for each page I write, I could make it to the next national writing conference!

My favorite useless knowledge fact is that the birthday of the toilet is printed under the lid. Go on, you know you want to check it out!

Daily Led Zep

2007-08-03T23:10:00.000-04:00

"Ramble On"

Again - another good song for travelin'. This time, home early from our mini-vacation. Apparently, when the casino isn't full enough, they turn off the electricity (Including AC) in the hotel rooms and force people to the cool comfort of coin jingling. Oh well -- nice little side trip!

And King... forgot the camera so no pictures, but I did see lots of scenic haze in Cincinnati and Louisville KY.

Daily Led Zep

2007-08-02T00:56:00.000-04:00

As we drove to our little mini vacation to Caesar's in Indiana, we heard Over the Hills and Far Away. Appropriate song, as we were going through some of the rolling hills of KY at the time! Enjoy the video :)

Am I Dreaming a Little Dream or What?

2007-07-28T22:45:00.000-04:00

All I can say is YESSSSS!!!!!

COREY + COREY

Dancin' by yourself is bad for your health

2007-07-28T21:33:00.000-04:00

As it grooves your body moves
Your body starts to get the feelin', and what you're feelin' is happiness
Let your body go as you listen, let it flow through your system
It'll take control of your mind and make you move your behind

As it grooves you feel the tension in the air and now you're hype
You're gettin' down because the sound is just your type
G.M. and D.O.S.E's kickin' it to you right
So come on, come on and party hardy all night, and

Wiggle it just a little bit, I wanna see you wiggle it just a little bit, as it grooves
Wiggle it just a little bit, I wanna see you wiggle it just a little bit, as it grooves

Once the DJ lets it spin, it'll penetrate your skin
It'll penetrate your soul and make you lose control
The D.O.S.E's comin' atcha, invadin' you like a body snatcher
Whether if you're drunk or sober this here groove is takin' over your body

And now you're partyin' like you've never partied before
You're jumpin' up and down like crazy on the dance floor
You're gettin' busy like a bee and that's the truth, I got a feelin' there's a fire

Wiggle it just a little bit, I wanna see you wiggle it just a little bit, as it grooves
Wiggle it just a little bit, I wanna see you wiggle it just a little bit, as it grooves

I bet you're moving your body from side to side
I bet the groove that you're hearin' is keeping you satisfied
Dancin' by yourself is bad for your health
So grab a cutie by the hand and tell her that you wanna dance

As it grooves you feel the tension in the air and now you're hyped
You're gettin' down because the sound is just your type

G.M. and D.O.S.E's kickin' it to you right, so come on, come on, party

"Wiggle It" by 2 In A Room

My Day as Fawn Hall

2007-07-28T13:48:00.000-04:00

And no, it didn't involve Ollie North or big shoulder pads. In the process of cleaning out our accumulation of stuff in preparation for our move, I had a bunch of paper's to dispose of. I wanted them shredded before I took them to the recycle bin. So two shredders later, the job in complete... well sort of.

The first shredded didn't even make it out of the box, hardly. I dropped the main part (OK it slipped off the table and crashed to the floor... parts were rattling.) After that one was exchanged, the second one made it OK. However, it got stuck several times and it didn't like post it notes. And it would balk at various legal documents. But anywhoo.... We tried it over our kitchen wastebasket, and Chad broke it (The same piece as before) trying to fit it over the container.) But that worked well for a while. We didn't get everything done, but most of it was shredded before a certain someone (not me) stuck about 7 sheets through at once, right after being told to respect the shredder or it will fire back. The papers are now permanently stuck so I don't know what will become of the shredder.

Why am I telling you this? Well I think I'm finally over my malaise - cleaning and purging old things can be quite therapeutic. Whew...

Just a few more weeks to get ready for school next year - not sure what that will entail, I just hope it's a good year.

2007-07-24T14:02:00.000-04:00

malaise - subjective feeling of being sick, ill, or not healthy. The feeling is generalized, varying from mild to severe in intensity. It may be the lone clinical manifestation of malaria, or may accompany other signs and symptoms. (http://www.brooksidepress.org/Products/OperationalMedicine/DATA/operationalmed/Manuals/malaria/App6.html)

Malaise: An indefinite feeling of debility or lack of health often indicative of, or accompanying, the onset of an illness. Post-exertional malaise – feeling of debility following either physical or mental activities. (http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca/centres/environmental/chronicFatigue/Glossary.html)

Finished!!!!

2007-07-22T22:37:00.000-04:00

Well, it took me longer than I had anticipated (Monty Python and Family Gatherings will do that) but I finished the last Harry Potter book today... very good story and things were wrapped up well! Only took me about 11.5 hours to get through the book.

The Sopranos have ended, Harry Potter's ended as well.... what's next - Days of Our Lives? Let's hope not -- I need some form of escape!

Who's the Sicko

2007-07-18T22:20:00.000-04:00

While I have no desire to see Michael Moore's new "film," I have found the real sickos to watch. I'm watching tonight's To Catch A Preditor. First, I can't believe how STUPID these people are. What is wrong with the sickos who want to prey on young kids... just because you can't get off with someone your own age, doesn't mean you have the right to go after innocent kids. Plus... many KNOW the show and still try to get the young girl.

Ugh.... I don't know how these people do this to catch these guys... I know I'd need a de-icky-izing bath after being near the perverts. Keep up the good work guys!

But -- the stupid should get caught and they should get off the streets. Castration or incineration comes to mind for these guys.

Icky icky.

Food Movie and food

2007-07-14T19:06:00.000-04:00

As you can see from the post below DG came for a visit. The purpose was to take in old movies at a really cool downtown theatre (with organ music playing before the show, during intermission and afterward). Last night's showing was the classic North by Northwest. But as I like just about any excuse to try out new recipies, it was the perfect opportunity.

The menu for my ~~guinea pigs~~ guests is as follows:

Rachel Ray's "You Won't Be Single For Long Vodka Cream Pasta"
Green leaf salad with mozzerella and almonds, with Shallot Vinaigrette dressing
Steamed green beans with almonds
Warm French Bread
Chocolate Mousse with freshly whipped cream and strawberries

As my ~~guinea pigs~~ dinner guests are still alive to tell about it I'll post the recipes below:

You Won't Be Single For Long Vodka Cream Pasta

This recipe will make enough for 2 couples. If you plan a romantic evening where more than two's a crowd, reserve half the sauce to freeze for another supper before the addition of basil, and only cook 1/2 to 2/3 pound of penne.
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, once around the pan in a slow stream
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 shallots, minced
1 cup vodka
1 cup chicken stock
1 can crushed tomatoes (32 ounces)
Coarse salt and pepper
16 ounces pasta, such as penne rigate
1/2 cup heavy cream
20 leaves fresh basil, shredded or torn
Crusty bread, for passing
Heat a large skillet over moderate heat. Add oil, butter, garlic, and shallots. Gently saute shallots for 3 to 5 minutes to develop their sweetness. Add vodka to the pan, 3 turns around the pan in a steady stream will equal about 1 cup. Reduce vodka by half, this will take 2 or 3 minutes. Add chicken stock, tomatoes. Bring sauce to a bubble and reduce heat to simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
While sauce simmers, cook pasta in salted boiling water until cooked to al dente (with a bite to it). While pasta cooks, prepare your salad or other side dishes.
Stir cream into sauce. When sauce returns to a bubble, remove it from heat. Drain pasta. Toss hot pasta with sauce and basil leaves. Pass pasta with crusty bread.

**NOTE: Next time - cut the shallot to 1 or 1.5 and add a bit of corn starch per directions on box to thicken sauce a bit. Top with fresh mozza cheese!

Shallot Vinaigrette
2 tablespoons French red vinegar
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh shallots
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons Dijon style mustard
6 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon heavy cream
(may substitute yogurt or omit entirely)

Using a blender, add first 5 ingredients and, with blender running, add oil. Continue blending. Add in lemon juice and then the optional cream or yogurt .

I was able to use the left over cream (from the dressing and pasta sauce) for the topping on the chocolate mousse.

All in all - a good evening!

Next Friday - Monty Python And the Holy Grail

DG and Skii's Matching Tees

2007-07-14T17:20:00.001-04:00

One Thing to do Whilst in Columbus, Ohio

2007-07-08T16:26:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, Izzy and I went to the Santa Maria! It is "the world's most authentic, museum-quality replica of Christopher Columbus' flagship."

It was pretty cool. The above pics are of the ship, of course. It was hard to get the whole thing in the frame due to the trees and such on the near hillside, but you can get the picture. For a trip overseas, there wasn't much room! We got to go on most of the ship, even in the cargo area.

This is a sampling of the food the crew would eat - beans and hard-tack biscuits. (Yum!)

A view of the cargo area. Crew had to go down this in the dark, since candles would have been dangerous on a wooden ship.

The crow's nest as seen through the cargo hold. Yeah, that's the job I'd want!

Here is Izzy demonstrating on the cookstove.

And here she is steering the boat. Belive it or not, the "wheel" for steering ships was not used until 200+ years after Columbus sailed! The man on the tiller was not able to see the front of the ship, so he had to rely on the compass and the navigator for directions.

And here's Izzy on the cannon. Because they used a hot piece of metal stuck through a small hole to ignite the gunpowder, the expression "FIRE IN THE HOLE" was born. Izzy loved that part! The grate behind Izzy is how the crew would access the cargo.

And here is a view of the Columbus skyline 'tween the masts of the ship.

For about 5.50 for Izzy and me to tour the ship, it was a nice afternoon venture. I did find out that you can have overnighters on the ship and even "pirate" birthday parties -- how cool!

And to end the afternoon we hung out for a bit in the nearby park... Izzy in the fountain, by a unicorn and a griffin.

Don't ask.....

2007-07-02T23:46:00.000-04:00

Gunther
I'm still trying to figure out who this guy is, and why he is not more known across the pond. (How do I type the darn umlats!)
But, you have to check out his myspace page and listen to the "Ding Ding Dong Song"

(added later, after searching more on Gunther)

I don't know if it's the mullet or lyrics such as:

Honey, you're so cute
This is the land of forbidden fruit
Bananas, melonas, yeah
It's a hot, hot summer love (Yeah)

But this guy is interesting to say the least. Here is a video of his song "Tutti Fruitti Summer Love"

(Caution to those with young viewers, or those who are sensitive to flying fruit -- cover your eyes at 3:14 so you miss the flying "bananas")

(And yet another one added later still) - Suntrip (click for video)
Again - not for the squeamish, and if anyone can tell me the lyrics, I'd really like to know. I think they are:

It is a hot day
I put on my flip flop
Go to Playa a sol???
I'm feeling tip top

and

I do a strip tease
and a fiesta
a banana split
no siesta
we go to shower
it's happy hour
Mama mia
Gimme a sangria

He even quotes 2 Live Crew "love you long time"

What I don't get is WHY he has so many chicks??? It must be his distinct moue.

What's harder to find than...

2007-06-29T16:10:00.000-04:00

"the second shooter on the grassy knoll?"

A Nintendo Wii... well guess what folks, looks like we found the shooter, because we bought a Wii yesterday!

The above quote was from a very helpful Gamestop employee, who was giving me the low down on the game. The other employee was a bit confused, but I knew what he meant. Apparently, these games are a bit hard to find. I was going to get one for Chad's B-day a few months from now. I guess he's been trolling around Wal-Mart and Best Buy looking for one, and we just happened to see one at Wallyworld yesterday.

This is a really cool game system, especially for somone who grew up on the old 2600 -- a lot of the Wii games are more my speed. Can't wait for Izzy to get home so she could play!

House Updates

2007-06-27T13:50:00.001-04:00

Drove by today, they weren't working on our house, but a crew was prepping the foundation for our neighbors house... it looks like we'll have a new neighbor! I hope we can get in soon... keep your fingers crossed that we are in by the end of August/early September.

How did I spend my evening?

2007-06-25T21:21:00.001-04:00

With

and

YUM.

I want I want....

2007-06-25T14:43:00.001-04:00

http://www.tatermitts.com/

This looks sooo cool -- however, I don't really want to pay 27 dollars for them... (including S&H) .

In other news.. Izzy is at her Nona's, and it's so quiet here... nice for a little bit, but too quiet after a while!

Chad and I took an "unofficial" walk-through of our house today. We sneaked through the front door, and started planning out our living room. It's so odd, but very exciting to see what our views will look like, and where everything will go! I'll post more pics as I get them -- forgot the camera today.

The tatermitts would make a good housewarming present!

Summer Reading

2007-06-20T22:28:00.000-04:00

Since I have way more free time this summer than it seems in summer past... I'm keeping track of all of my reads. Enjoy!

If You Could See Me Now - Cecilia Ahern
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - JK Rowling
Every Boy's Got One - Meg Cabot
Tounge in Chic - Christina Dodd
I'm In No Mood for Love - Rachel Gibson
Pleasure for Pleasure - Eloisa James
The Boy Next Door - Meg Cabot
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince - JK Rowling

More house photos...

2007-06-20T21:18:00.000-04:00

Exciting day! After about 8 days with just the slab (below), the walls are coming up! Yipee!

This was about a week ago....

And this is today.... Yeah! Walls!

The secod floor is going up.. My big bathtub will be under the window on the second floor...

Our roof!

Our Garage -- and no, Gareth - we won't be living in the green box :)

Photos from the old homestead...

2007-06-20T20:58:00.001-04:00

We went down to visit the folks and to have a belated birthday party for Izzy. (Cake was rather dry!)

She got lots of cool toys....

Including the Barbie -

Who liked to spy on us and...

Go around without her panties... (well, they are painted on, but if I had my undies tattoo'd on, I don't think I could get away with it!) Chad got a big kick out of this one!

And here's Pandora - My baby, otherwise known as the Cat From Hell. Trust me.

I promise, this was in the middle of a "meow" but she normally has this expression when anybody but me comes near her.

My sweeties!

Chad doing his best Kate Winslet / Rose pose. (He's gonna kill me for putting this one up!)

2 NEW BORING DIET POSTS

2007-06-13T09:07:00.001-04:00

OK GO READ MY BORING DIET / WEIGHT LOSS BLOG!!!!!!!!!!!! 2 NEW POSTS!!!

House

2007-06-12T12:20:00.001-04:00

Summer Summer

2007-06-12T07:51:00.000-04:00

Yeah! My last day of school is finally here! It's been a crazy few months, I've been extremely busy with getting senior grades lined up. UGH - It isn't like I haven't been warning them since, oh, October of the deadline for grades. But that's behind me now - whew.

So what do I hear when I wake up this morning? A stupid alarm clock. Mind you, it's not one of mine. I've looked at all 4 of them. My best guess is that it's my neighbors. There are a few teenagers across the street, and I think it may be one of those.

Izzy got her hair cut the other day, so did I a while ago... Izzy's looks really cute - mine can't really tell a difference.

Arrg! That alarm clock is driving me nuts!

A NEW BLOG

2007-04-30T00:00:00.000-04:00

Hey folks in blogger land!!!!!!!!!!!! Writing this post to pimp my new blog. I've started a little thing to track weight loss, food intake, and exercise. I want to lose 80 pounds and I want to be 250 by Christmas... Drop by and take the journey with me....

Chad

I THINK I'VE GONE MAD!

Party time!

2007-04-24T18:04:00.000-04:00

Izzy's about to turn 6, and we are having a party! I must be crazy to host one for a bunch of 6 year olds, but it should be fun.. we are headed to the local pizza/game/golf/bumpercar spot, so it should be exciting -- we already have a few rsvp, boys only so far.

busy busy busy week! It's been crazy here, but that's what keeps things exciting, I guess.

Movies, not for the faint of heart

2007-04-07T00:47:00.000-04:00

Chad and I just got back from our date... Tonight was the first time we saw a movie on opening night in a loooonnnnnggggg time! We chose Grindhouse, and let me tell you -- this was interesting. I don't think everyone will "get" it, but it's up there as far as movies go... What made it interesting (among the extremely gratuitous blood, gore, and perverts) were the unexpected trailers and ads in the movie. Unexpected, because they just don't happen like that anymore!

The cast of characters/ actors is entertaining. Hey, who knew Josh Brolin (Brand from the Goonies) could play such a weirdo! It is long, but it really didn't seem like you were sitting in there for a long time... My recommendation, see the movie at the big screen. You'll want to stay to the end - you'll never look at Kurt Russell the same way again!

It's Spring, I think....

2007-04-04T20:43:00.000-04:00

Well, I know this is Ohio weather -- it was nearly 80 yesterday and SNOW tonight!Â It's piling up outside on the patio furniture.

The Izzster is up at her Nona's for a few days of her spring break... It's so quite without her here!

Today, on the way to work, I saw a tree on a wire - sparks and smoke were just starting to form.Â By the time I got my phone dug out of my purse, I saw the FD racing towards it... that's about it for my excitement for the day!Â

We are mostly moved in... yes, we've moved again (UGH - for me, this is my 14th move since starting college, boy do Ihave this down!)Â Â Â Actually, we are only staying here for a little while... we found a place and are building in a cute town nearby.Â If all goes well - we'll move by September!Â The house is pretty cool, and we are selling out a bit, by going to "suburb-land"Â not quite Stepford, and I hope not over a burial ground, a la Polterguist!Â (Step into the light, Carol Anne!)Â

After just a few short weeks here, we've had a touch of mold in basement, the windows upstairs don't open (latches are installed wrong); the patio screen door has a "doggie door" CUT out of the screen;Â there is a big round patch of dirt (pool) that has 1 weed in it, int he backyard; our mailbox was demolished by some idiot driver; the fan is the fridge didn't work (55degrees in there!); Oh, and there is about 6 inches of space between our bed and the wall on one side, and the dresser on the other.Â Fun Fun Fun!Â

Off to enjoy American Idol -- My money's on Melinda or Lakisha or even Blake.Â

toodles!

3 words...

2007-03-25T03:11:00.000-04:00

DANCE PARTY USA!!!!!

We come from the land of Ice and Snow

2007-02-17T11:11:00.000-04:00

No, not what you think... this is how much ice we had last week -- it's frozen on a little twig. There was more, but it melted as we brought it inside.

Don't eat yellow Snow!

Chad doing the dirty work

This is covered with ice -- you can see the walk in the back, it's about 12 in of solid ice. FUN!!!
Even the walls were frozen... you can see where the "shadow" of the lamp was protected from the driving ice.
The garbage can was frozen shut!

Good Doggy

2007-01-30T23:02:00.000-04:00

Izzy and Duncan... As you can tell by his expression, he just loves all of the stuffed animals.

Duncan is here!

2007-01-25T11:00:00.000-04:00

Well, I told you he was coming! This is Duncan. We are watching him while the folks are on a well deserved vacation!

Izzy was just tickled pink that is here! I'm sure she will keep him busy.

Duncan likes our couch -- it took him forever to fall asleep last night!

And no wonder, with our Baby Cat giving him the spooky eye, Duncan has been on alert.

Actually, I'm surprised they are coming around each other this soon! Of course, the cat is giving the obligatory hiss and puffs up, but he's intrigued. Duncan, I don't think, realizes that he's bigger than the cat.

But he did give the cat "paws" when the Duncster was playing with his squeaky toys, which were about the same size as Baby Cat.

This is the Katt that Duncan left behind. For more about this Katt's adventures, read here.

2007-01-21T15:28:00.000-04:00

Countdown to Duncan 2 Days!

My cell phone won't talk to me, but my shoes will

2007-01-19T12:40:00.000-04:00

I swear someone is out to get me. Tuesday, at exactly 11:59 am Cingular time, my cell phone died. (Conspiracy - I tell you!) We had such good times. Ahhh... But - Now for an upgrade :) But for Chad. I get his old phone, so he can get one of the newer ones to access the internet by using tin foil, gum, and cheese wiz to hook up his phone and the lap top. Or some thing like that.

In other news, if they are not watching me from the sky, now my feet are being monitered.

Thanks to our new health and wellness program at my place of employment, I now have my very first pair of Nike shoes! (I grew up in the 80s without a pair of Nikes - hard to believe!) I also have a new Nano and the sport pack so now my shoes can talk to me (as if I don't have enough voices in my head.)

To calibrate the Nike+ I had to (Gasp!) run. This was probably the first time I ran in several (try 14) years. I did .25 mile in about 3 minutes. My body is not meant for running, which is why I threw track instead of running -(Shot and disc). Well, there was the few instances the shot putters ran the 1600 relay, but only when we were very far ahead in points, or very far behind.

So for iPod number 4 (perks for working for a computer based employer!) I've got it all set set now. Let's just see how it works for me getting in shape.

Countdown to Duncan: 4 days!

Thank you: corporate conglomerate convenience

2007-01-07T10:23:00.000-04:00

Yikes.... I guess taking a few months off is not always a good thing. When I decided to come back to reality and check some email, I find that I can't log in to one particular account. It's my junk mail account, but it's tied to a bunch of other accounts in this woven world of the web. So it's saying that the user name and password don't exist. Tried all of my usual passwords - no such luck. As this is one of my first email accounts - I've had it for about 9-10 years- I think I'd know the password!

Well, I try my alternate email and get a note, actually 2, that my password has been changed, yet, no mention of the new password. Mind you this was in December, on my self imposed internet sabbatical. How could it have been changed?

Due to corporate conglomerate "convenience", when I use our internet email, which is linked also to the account as a back up email, I can't log in as "me." I have a few differnet email address, but when the services I've had separately for several years, decide to combine, It's not recognizing ME! So when I follow the link provided in the "password changed" email, it automatically logs me in from the account I'm checking it from, NOT the accout that's supposedly been changed. (Thanks, Att/Sbc/cingular/Dsl/Yahoo)

Confused? Join the club. Oh, and that secondary email, well, that's not working now either, since I'm guessing that whenever my password was supposedly changed, my back up email was altered as well. See, I've figured out that after about a hundred attempts to log in, the account is locked. I have yet to recieve the "unlock" email that was sent to my back up account.

This is just crazy. I've said for years that the internet and computers will be the downfall of civilization. But this is just getting downright spooky how all of the infomation is linked together - easily searchable, and not that easy to fix when you are dealing with semi-"intelligent" computers!

Don't even get me started on the conspiracy angle to the story (I could go on for days on that, but I might be giving "them" ideas.)

Still here...

2007-01-05T03:37:00.000-04:00

Just letting folks know that I'm still here... been on a sort of mental vacation for the past few... weeks (OK, since the beginning of November.)

My brain is rested, and I can now ponder the wonders of Cheese. And Brendan Fraser.