Come on get happy...

At the Mall of America the other day there were auditions being held for the new Partridge Family reality show.  Is it just me, or have reality shows gone too far? 

Over the weekend we watched The Surreal Life, which was actually funny.  That's the one where all the celebrities live together in a house and basically act obnoxious.  This cast includes:  Vanilla Ice, Erik "Ponch" Astrada, Tammy Faye Baker, Trishelle from the Real World, Ron Jeremy the porn star, and a Baywatch chick.  Even though Ron Jeremy is gross, he's actually a pretty decent guy, as is Erik Astrada.  Tammy Faye seems like just a softie at heart who is so religious she just wants to love everyone.  I have to admit, I scoffed at this show initally.  Then I laughed. 

I haven't posted in almost 2 weeks because there hasn't been much to post about.  Life moves pretty fast sometimes...where have we heard that quote before?  Over the weekend we had a Housewarming Party at our place for some of the fam.  Thanks to all who gave us such nice things.  We appreciate the 'warming' of our place.  I found out that I am not much of a hostess.  I guess I'd rather just go to other people's houses.  I'm not good at having people visit!

We have a new DSL connection at home, that is finally working as of yesterday.  We are happy to finally have it since our dial up no longer worked very well. 

Madison is still her happy puppy self.  We start her puppy classes in just a few weeks, thankfully.  She's got an 'attitude' going right now where she likes to bark at you when you aren't paying any attention to her.  And she is still eating her poop.  I give up on that one.  Hey, if you want to eat your own shit, that's your business.  Just don't lick me afterwards.  And, she loves to dig.  The tree in our front yard is taking a beating and we'll have to make a run to the hardware store to fix something up to keep her from digging.

Mike was accepted to grad school and begins at the end of August.  I'm so excited for him and I hope this will help him get where he would like to be with his career.  The next 10 months will be challenging, but something we both decided was worth the sacrifice.

We made a trip to the new IKEA store a few weeks ago.  That is going to be a dangerous place for me!  The furniture is so modern and unique-while combining quality and low prices.  We bought a corner unit for our television.  I could have bought a lot more!  I highly recommend this place to newly out of college individuals who needs furniture and don't have a lot of money.  (Molly, a tip! But sorry, no job offer.) 

Speaking of Molly-please know that we have all felt this way at one time or another.  You are not alone!  It's the crappiest feeling in the world knowing that you are qualified, that you have a 4 year degree, and no one wants you.  A job is out there-it is!  I guess it's like romance.  It happens when you least expect it.  My first job out of college was purely by accident.  Keep doing what you are doing and some day you will stop and say:  how is it possible I've been out of college for 10 years ?  Can I stop working and go back to those fun days?  I miss college-something I never thought I would say.  Keep your head held high.

Tonight is the big convention night-John Kerry will accept the nomination.  I have missed the last 2 nights because I basically just forgot-too busy being outside with Madison and enjoying the weather.  I'm mad that I missed Clinton's speech.  Anyway, tonight I hope is the beginning of the end of the Bush reign.  (Still haven't seen Fairenheit 911)

This weekend we are taking some time out to drive up north.  The weather sounds decent and we haven't been to my in-laws all summer.  (mike has, not me)  So, we thought we 'd take the weekend to relax, check out the pontoon boat, and introduce Madison to the lake.  This will be her first long car ride since we brought her home.  She has had diarrhea on and off all week, so here's hoping she doesn't crap all over the car! 

Spoke with my Dad yesterday, who is recovering from prostate surgery.  He is on the mend, but still recuperating.  Keep feeling better!

Dad has also been helping my friend Jeannette with some writing recently.  She has been part of a contest at the Pioneer Press called "Average Joe Sports Writer".  With a pool of contestants, they pit 2 individuals against each other and give them a topic in sports to write about.  Jeannette is down to the final 4 and has done a fantastic job.  The winner each week is chosen by the Sports Editor, Deputy Sports Editor, and online voting.  If you get a chance, check it out and vote!