It's 3:23 pm.
I am taking a break at my desk because I am out of breath from doing manual labor around the office. Pushing a file cabinet down the hall by yourself isn't easy. Then, I had to start putting together a table for someone, and as I dragged the box into my office I realized that it was damn heavy. I think it's funny that then my boss or someone will come in my office and ask if I'm using my time in the most 'constuctive' way. My answer in the past has been: "Well, if you can tell me who is going to put this item of furniture together, then I wouldn't have to use my time to do it." I'm such a bitch sometimes. It's liberating!
I also went over to the Mall of America today (5 minutes from office) to have some lunch and walk around since I never made it out of the office last week. Our big boss asked if I could pick up some treats for the staff because they would be in a major meeting all afternoon. Well, I wasted 45 minutes of my own time trying to find something. No one at the mall could accomodate a dessert of some kind for 15 people. It just annoyed the crap out of me for some reason. It was also one of those days where you'd really like to buy stuff because you are actually finding things that you like for a change. But, I feel guilty everytime I spend money, so I only bought some soap for the bathroom at Bath & Body. My problem is shoes; and DSW Warehouse had 2 pairs, scratch that, 3 pairs I would have really liked. Oh well.
This leads to the next observation. Mike & I went to my co-workers home last night for dinner with her and her new husband. (They are the ones having the baby I mentioned previously). We had not been to their new townhome yet and we really wanted to see it as they had purchased their's not long after we did. Great place- super cute. It was a model home so it had all those extras that can really make a place. Such things as light switches and fixtures, hardwood floors, just those little things that we do not have. Or rather, do not have quality looking stuff. We liked their kitchen, bedroom and bath a lot. If we mixed those with our living room, dining room, loft and basement, it'd be perfect! Amy had decorated the place so well. We started asking ourselves this: are we too frugal? They have less money then we do, are much younger, and have a baby coming. But, they had all new furniture because they had nothing when they moved in. We're talking bedset, dining room set, living room set, the works. Then, you of course need comforters, rugs, etc. I know she spent some cash. We look at our place and it's hand me down city. Not that we aren't comfortable with it, but it starts to get old after awhile. We've been really lucky. That's when we questioned whether we are too cheap to go just that little extra mile to furnish things well. Or, I questioned, do we spend on other things that maybe they didn't? Such as: DVD's, going out to eat, clothes, whatever we all spend our money on. I have no clue what the answer is.
Okay, so that was Monday....
and I never finished my blog...it's now Thursday. I was out of commission on Tuesday and slept all day at home. Long story short-I take some anti-depressants, missed a dose (which I never do) and it knocked me on my butt. Today is the first day that is better. Anyway, Madison was at the vet for her spaying yesterday. I get a call at work around 10am from the vet asking if they could do x rays of her hips. Diagnosis? Hip displasia. I was a puddle. She is okay fo now-and the vet thinks it won't be an issue until she gets old and arthritic. They want to monitor it and have her come in again for x rays in 3 months. Because she still has a lot of growing to do, it may go either way. There is corrective surgery if it becomes bad, but it costs $3,000.
Otherwise, her surgery went well. She was the hit of the office with her personality. When I came to get her and said, "Hi Baby Girl" as she came out from the back, the look on her face was pure joy. Can you tell she is my baby? Mike's nickname for her is 'puppy' or 'baby puppy' and mine is usually 'goober' or 'baby girl'. We are sad, aren't we?!? Last night was quiet all around with us all being tired, and me not feeling good. Maddie slept most of the evening and through the night, but by this morning she was back to herself. She was playing a bit and attempted to do the play bite, which indicates she is up to her old tricks again. :) It's amazing how fast we've become attached to her in such a short period of time. With all that has gone on with TJ recently, I guess I just freaked out about the hip stuff thinking I didn't want to experience more pain as a dog owner. The vet is awesome-so great- and her exact words were: "I think Madison is going to be around for a long time."
Monday, August 23, 2004
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
Sorry
It's been a few weeks since I've had a good chance to sit down and write much. Work has been busy, nights have been taken up with errands. Life at its finest!
We hit the Twins game two weeks ago with Mike's cousin Mikey, who was visting. He turned 16 while he was with us, and we had a great time showing him around the cities. Nice kid-and Madison loved to have company and someone who would run all over the house with her. Twins game was nice-I hadn't been to a game in almost 2 years. The new turf at the dome is amazing. I like it a lot more and it looks better then the other stuff. That artificial turf made it look more like indoor-outdoor carpeting. This stuff is much more realistic.
We also took advantage of riding the new Light Rail train into Minneapolis. By parking at Fort Snelling, the ride took about 15 minutes and dropped us off right in front of the Dome. Granted, the trip took about the same time as it would by driving, but you reduce the crap of finding a parking place and paying a small fortune for it. I will gladly do this again for a night out in Minneapolis.
Last week was spent in preparation for the big annual family camping trip. For 2 freaking nights and 1 day it takes A LOT to get going. Granted, this year was the easiest of all because everything is easily accessed in our basement, instead of a small closet in our apartment! I took Friday off, and we were on the road by 3:30. Madison made herself at home on top of all the coolers and had a nice perch to look out the windows and sleep on a blanket. We got down there before 7pm (Caledonia, MN) and were able to get the tent up with everything else before dark. We had some chilly nights, but with enough blankets and sleeping bags it was fine. Madison slept in her kennel, which we had room for in our large tent. She LOVED camping. Getting to run around in the country with other darks, a creek and people that wanted to play with her was perfect. Not to mention lots of bugs and fish to keep her interested! By the time evening rolled around, she would fall asleep at my feet around the campfire.
We had the annual Winnebago Bowl football game. I only played one game this year because I just wasn't up for more. We lost, so it sucked. The others all had fun. We had the new flag belts this year which make for easier capture. But, Derrick still managed to tackle Mike during the first play of the game instead of pulling his flag! (that sounded bad)
Nights were quiet, for once. Grace fell asleep on Saturday night at the fire, so she was decorated in grand tradition. What was funny was that she was the one that was so excited about decorating someone else! Cousin Randy and his family showed up as well, which is usually the only time we see them. Michelle and Dewey had gotten married quietly the weekend before, so we celebrated with a little cake and some gifts. Danny and his girlfriend were there with their 2 month old, Olivia. What a beautiful baby! I hadn't seen Danny in nearly 4 years, so that was nice that he came. Good time overall.
Went to visit Grandpa and Grandma on Sunday, in Harmony. We brought Madison to meet them. She licked Grandma, who thought she was a nice dog and pet her a bit. Same with Grandpa who proclaimed she was a smart pup! I spent a good hour chatting with Grandpa about how they are doing. Not great it sounds-and looks-and he did mention moving to the nursing home in Mabel. We'll have to see how that goes. He has a lot of responsibility in his hands and with his eye site going away, it can't be easy. It's very hard to watch the two people you love as much as your parents slow down and get older.
Madison's obedience classes started last week. We went to the first one without her, as requested, so we could learn what to expect. This week she comes along. I'm anxious to see how it goes! She loves other dogs but likes to whap them in the face with her paw. Some dogs don't take too kindly to that. She is the youngest at 5 months, with the oldest being 6 years. We took some advice from the class already and began working on things. When I let her out now and ask her to wait as I grab the chain, she does. I can't wait to see the dog named Elvis who is coming to class!
Tomorrow I am throwing a shower for my co-worker, Amy. She is due September 15, but I have a sneaking suspicion that she will go early. She is getting so big and round! It's been a great experience to be a part of her pregnancy since Day 1. They are having a little girl and are naming her Sophie. So, tonight I head off to Michael's, Factory Card Outlet, and Target to get all the things I need. I also have a haircut and eyebrow wax later, so I doubt I'll be home before 8:30pm tonight. Thankfully, we are not going anywhere this weekend. The plan is to paint the bathrooms and install shelving in the garage.
Bush and Cheney are in town tonight for a rally at the Xcel Center. This is like the 3rd or 4th time in 5 weeks. The interesting part is that the secret service is requiring all people to check in with their social security number and address. If they are a registered Democrat, they will not be allowed to enter. Nice. That's why Regime Change Begins At Home.
My most favorite t-shirt I saw recently with Bush's picture on it said, "Like a rock, only dumber." Classic. Kerry should be here again in the next week it sounds like. I can't wait until Election Day. I think I may have to take the day off, or take the following day off to recover from staying up to watch the returns!
Can Bill Clinton be our president again, please? (By the way, I'm only on Page 328 in his book. It's good, just has a lot of information to process.)
It's been a few weeks since I've had a good chance to sit down and write much. Work has been busy, nights have been taken up with errands. Life at its finest!
We hit the Twins game two weeks ago with Mike's cousin Mikey, who was visting. He turned 16 while he was with us, and we had a great time showing him around the cities. Nice kid-and Madison loved to have company and someone who would run all over the house with her. Twins game was nice-I hadn't been to a game in almost 2 years. The new turf at the dome is amazing. I like it a lot more and it looks better then the other stuff. That artificial turf made it look more like indoor-outdoor carpeting. This stuff is much more realistic.
We also took advantage of riding the new Light Rail train into Minneapolis. By parking at Fort Snelling, the ride took about 15 minutes and dropped us off right in front of the Dome. Granted, the trip took about the same time as it would by driving, but you reduce the crap of finding a parking place and paying a small fortune for it. I will gladly do this again for a night out in Minneapolis.
Last week was spent in preparation for the big annual family camping trip. For 2 freaking nights and 1 day it takes A LOT to get going. Granted, this year was the easiest of all because everything is easily accessed in our basement, instead of a small closet in our apartment! I took Friday off, and we were on the road by 3:30. Madison made herself at home on top of all the coolers and had a nice perch to look out the windows and sleep on a blanket. We got down there before 7pm (Caledonia, MN) and were able to get the tent up with everything else before dark. We had some chilly nights, but with enough blankets and sleeping bags it was fine. Madison slept in her kennel, which we had room for in our large tent. She LOVED camping. Getting to run around in the country with other darks, a creek and people that wanted to play with her was perfect. Not to mention lots of bugs and fish to keep her interested! By the time evening rolled around, she would fall asleep at my feet around the campfire.
We had the annual Winnebago Bowl football game. I only played one game this year because I just wasn't up for more. We lost, so it sucked. The others all had fun. We had the new flag belts this year which make for easier capture. But, Derrick still managed to tackle Mike during the first play of the game instead of pulling his flag! (that sounded bad)
Nights were quiet, for once. Grace fell asleep on Saturday night at the fire, so she was decorated in grand tradition. What was funny was that she was the one that was so excited about decorating someone else! Cousin Randy and his family showed up as well, which is usually the only time we see them. Michelle and Dewey had gotten married quietly the weekend before, so we celebrated with a little cake and some gifts. Danny and his girlfriend were there with their 2 month old, Olivia. What a beautiful baby! I hadn't seen Danny in nearly 4 years, so that was nice that he came. Good time overall.
Went to visit Grandpa and Grandma on Sunday, in Harmony. We brought Madison to meet them. She licked Grandma, who thought she was a nice dog and pet her a bit. Same with Grandpa who proclaimed she was a smart pup! I spent a good hour chatting with Grandpa about how they are doing. Not great it sounds-and looks-and he did mention moving to the nursing home in Mabel. We'll have to see how that goes. He has a lot of responsibility in his hands and with his eye site going away, it can't be easy. It's very hard to watch the two people you love as much as your parents slow down and get older.
Madison's obedience classes started last week. We went to the first one without her, as requested, so we could learn what to expect. This week she comes along. I'm anxious to see how it goes! She loves other dogs but likes to whap them in the face with her paw. Some dogs don't take too kindly to that. She is the youngest at 5 months, with the oldest being 6 years. We took some advice from the class already and began working on things. When I let her out now and ask her to wait as I grab the chain, she does. I can't wait to see the dog named Elvis who is coming to class!
Tomorrow I am throwing a shower for my co-worker, Amy. She is due September 15, but I have a sneaking suspicion that she will go early. She is getting so big and round! It's been a great experience to be a part of her pregnancy since Day 1. They are having a little girl and are naming her Sophie. So, tonight I head off to Michael's, Factory Card Outlet, and Target to get all the things I need. I also have a haircut and eyebrow wax later, so I doubt I'll be home before 8:30pm tonight. Thankfully, we are not going anywhere this weekend. The plan is to paint the bathrooms and install shelving in the garage.
Bush and Cheney are in town tonight for a rally at the Xcel Center. This is like the 3rd or 4th time in 5 weeks. The interesting part is that the secret service is requiring all people to check in with their social security number and address. If they are a registered Democrat, they will not be allowed to enter. Nice. That's why Regime Change Begins At Home.
My most favorite t-shirt I saw recently with Bush's picture on it said, "Like a rock, only dumber." Classic. Kerry should be here again in the next week it sounds like. I can't wait until Election Day. I think I may have to take the day off, or take the following day off to recover from staying up to watch the returns!
Can Bill Clinton be our president again, please? (By the way, I'm only on Page 328 in his book. It's good, just has a lot of information to process.)
Friday, August 06, 2004
Giggles
To make you laugh today, check out this site to view a short movie that bashes both Kerry & Bush!!
Next, you have to listen to this song. It's dumb and funny and I gurantee you won't be able to get it out of your head after you hear it. Rumor has it that the children's singer Rafee (remember him? Baby Balooga was a hit) wrote it. Banana Song rocks.
I also want to make a push to anyone who is interested in getting a dog. Madison's brother is the last of the litter to find a home. He sounds just like her-pretty laid back and smart. Even the way they describe how he sleeps is how Madison sleeps! If you know anybody that wants a great puppy, this is the one to get. I can attest to that!
Congrats on the job Molly! Sounds like this is just right for you.
To make you laugh today, check out this site to view a short movie that bashes both Kerry & Bush!!
Next, you have to listen to this song. It's dumb and funny and I gurantee you won't be able to get it out of your head after you hear it. Rumor has it that the children's singer Rafee (remember him? Baby Balooga was a hit) wrote it. Banana Song rocks.
I also want to make a push to anyone who is interested in getting a dog. Madison's brother is the last of the litter to find a home. He sounds just like her-pretty laid back and smart. Even the way they describe how he sleeps is how Madison sleeps! If you know anybody that wants a great puppy, this is the one to get. I can attest to that!
Congrats on the job Molly! Sounds like this is just right for you.
New Hottie
Watched the movie "13 Going on 30" last night. Although not considered a classic or awesome movie, it was a darn cute and feel good kind of flick. Check out the guy from the movie-he's my new hottie. Cute!
One thing I can't be more happier about in the past week: the appearance of more John Kerry bumper stickers. I'd say that I have seen the Kerry stickers outweigh the Bush ones by about 10:1 ratio. Seriously. Either the Republicans aren't pushing their stuff, or the Kerry camp is going crazy (probably this one) but I'm happy to see people supporting Kerry. I thought that his introduction at the Convention was classic. "Lt. John Kerry reporting for duty." Whoever thought of that knew the crowd would love it.
It's Friday and the day can't end soon enough. I don't know what is has been about this week. I can't get enough sleep, Work sucks, headaches abound. I just feel like if I don't keep holding my eye balls open and my head up that it will be fall on my desk with a loud crash, and I'll be out. Sleep deprivation is a form of torture. I now understand why.
I took some old pictures I found into the PictureMaker at Target the other day. Surprisingly, they turned out quite well. Three were these tiny little photos that were at Grandpa and Grandma's. I could tell that one was Uncle Mike, but the others I was unsure. As it turns out, the other two consist of Dad holding a baseball bat on his shoulder. (Aged less then 7 at least) The other is of Dad and Mike together. They look like two little rascals. Pretty cool. The others were of my Grandpa Garness and one of my mom, brother & Me in our back yard. Let's just say that i have a black eye in the picture and look really ornery. I was around 2, so this comes to know suprise to anyone who knew me at that age.
Our time up north was fun. Madison and Joey got along well and had fun wrestling with each other. Alex was funny as always. "Uncle Mike, come here so I can splash you." He has a great vocabulary for age 2 1/2. Madison was whupped after being in the water for 2 days. She saw ducks, loons, you name it. Surprisingly, she didn't do anything but just watch them paddle by. Fun to watch.
Off to the Twins game tomorrow!
Watched the movie "13 Going on 30" last night. Although not considered a classic or awesome movie, it was a darn cute and feel good kind of flick. Check out the guy from the movie-he's my new hottie. Cute!
One thing I can't be more happier about in the past week: the appearance of more John Kerry bumper stickers. I'd say that I have seen the Kerry stickers outweigh the Bush ones by about 10:1 ratio. Seriously. Either the Republicans aren't pushing their stuff, or the Kerry camp is going crazy (probably this one) but I'm happy to see people supporting Kerry. I thought that his introduction at the Convention was classic. "Lt. John Kerry reporting for duty." Whoever thought of that knew the crowd would love it.
It's Friday and the day can't end soon enough. I don't know what is has been about this week. I can't get enough sleep, Work sucks, headaches abound. I just feel like if I don't keep holding my eye balls open and my head up that it will be fall on my desk with a loud crash, and I'll be out. Sleep deprivation is a form of torture. I now understand why.
I took some old pictures I found into the PictureMaker at Target the other day. Surprisingly, they turned out quite well. Three were these tiny little photos that were at Grandpa and Grandma's. I could tell that one was Uncle Mike, but the others I was unsure. As it turns out, the other two consist of Dad holding a baseball bat on his shoulder. (Aged less then 7 at least) The other is of Dad and Mike together. They look like two little rascals. Pretty cool. The others were of my Grandpa Garness and one of my mom, brother & Me in our back yard. Let's just say that i have a black eye in the picture and look really ornery. I was around 2, so this comes to know suprise to anyone who knew me at that age.
Our time up north was fun. Madison and Joey got along well and had fun wrestling with each other. Alex was funny as always. "Uncle Mike, come here so I can splash you." He has a great vocabulary for age 2 1/2. Madison was whupped after being in the water for 2 days. She saw ducks, loons, you name it. Surprisingly, she didn't do anything but just watch them paddle by. Fun to watch.
Off to the Twins game tomorrow!
Wednesday, July 28, 2004
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!
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!
Thursday, July 15, 2004
Blah
That's how I feel today.
Vacation was short, never long enough. We went canoeing on the rising Upper Iowa river, which was a blast. (Even though I got burned!) We hung out with family, I went to my friend Erika's wedding, a parade at my Dad's, trip to Clear Lake, Iowa to see where Buddy Holly was killed, went to see Anchorman, did a lot of shopping (MOA included), went to see a folk group play with my Dad, and read my books. It wasn't overly relaxing, but it was nice to be home.
Madison was busy lapping up all the attention she received from all of the extra people around the house. Alissa and Paige really liked her. She learned some new things from Grandpa Barry, which is good. She terrorized TJ each morning by trying to get him to play. Poor TJ, he wanted to play, but it's just too hard for him.
Things are not looking good for my buddy...he has had five seizures in the past 3 days. I found a few tumors on his chest as well. We knew it was coming, but it doesn't make it any easier. Madison will miss him too.
Back to work. There were things to catch up on, but nothing major. I'm just busy today and Friday because my co-worker is out and I'm covering her job too. Can't wait for the weekend.
Welcome to the post college working world, Molly!
That's how I feel today.
Vacation was short, never long enough. We went canoeing on the rising Upper Iowa river, which was a blast. (Even though I got burned!) We hung out with family, I went to my friend Erika's wedding, a parade at my Dad's, trip to Clear Lake, Iowa to see where Buddy Holly was killed, went to see Anchorman, did a lot of shopping (MOA included), went to see a folk group play with my Dad, and read my books. It wasn't overly relaxing, but it was nice to be home.
Madison was busy lapping up all the attention she received from all of the extra people around the house. Alissa and Paige really liked her. She learned some new things from Grandpa Barry, which is good. She terrorized TJ each morning by trying to get him to play. Poor TJ, he wanted to play, but it's just too hard for him.
Things are not looking good for my buddy...he has had five seizures in the past 3 days. I found a few tumors on his chest as well. We knew it was coming, but it doesn't make it any easier. Madison will miss him too.
Back to work. There were things to catch up on, but nothing major. I'm just busy today and Friday because my co-worker is out and I'm covering her job too. Can't wait for the weekend.
Welcome to the post college working world, Molly!
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Back in the saddle again
I'm back from vacation, back at work. I will post more later on the joys of being off for 10 days. I can tell you a couple things:
1)Madison and TJ woke me up at 5am each day.
2)We saw Anchorman and I thought it was really funny. Pat, Lyn and Mike do not concur.
"CANNON BALL!" I love Will Farrell.
I'm back from vacation, back at work. I will post more later on the joys of being off for 10 days. I can tell you a couple things:
1)Madison and TJ woke me up at 5am each day.
2)We saw Anchorman and I thought it was really funny. Pat, Lyn and Mike do not concur.
"CANNON BALL!" I love Will Farrell.
Friday, July 02, 2004
Holiday...Celebrate...
I'm not a Madonna fan, but that song popped in my head. Last day of work! It cannot come too soon. This has been one of those 'weeks' that you wish you could forget. Granted, nothing is as bad as my last job in terms of the stress. This week was just one of those ones where you wonder where the humanity in the world went to!
It's been 4:30am all this week for Madison. Mike & I are butt tired again. She seems to be a big pain in the butt in the morning. Otherwise, she is a great dog. I took her for a long walk last night, but it didn't slow her down any. I think that means that she is growing and can handle more exercise. At the Vet on Wednesday she had gained 6lbs in 3 weeks. The vet guesses that she may reach 50-60lbs total. For some reason, I don't see her getting that big. Time will tell. Her latest thing is that she barks at objects. We're never quite sure what it is that she barks at! Sometimes it's the bath tub, or she sees herself in the mirror. The last few days she barks at something on the counter! She is a funny dog.
I'm heading home at noon to pick her up and bring her back to the office with me. Then at 3pm we are going to leave for Rochester. Our big boss (who is gone today) left us an email stating that we should all leave at 3pm today. What a godsend that will be! His words were: "I know there is no way that I would know if you left earlier then that, but the guilt would eat at some of you and I would get a confession anyway." The guy is a riot at times!
I'm almost finished with Big Russ and Me. Great Book. Then, I will begin the mammoth task of My Life by Clinton. I still haven't finished my Naomi Judd book, plus I know that Pat is bringing a few more for me. I need to get back to reading a bit more again.
We're looking forward to the weekend. It should be a lot of fun and relaxing! Cousin TJ will help keep Madison in line-plus 6 more people to watch her will be lovely to give me a rest!
2 quotes that I've recently found that seem to work for our upcoming holiday and the state of our nation. I hope you find them as enlightening as I did.
"The highest patriotism is not blind allegiance to official policy, but a love of one's country deep enough to hold her to a higher standard."
-George McGovern
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."
-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Happy Independence Day!
I'm not a Madonna fan, but that song popped in my head. Last day of work! It cannot come too soon. This has been one of those 'weeks' that you wish you could forget. Granted, nothing is as bad as my last job in terms of the stress. This week was just one of those ones where you wonder where the humanity in the world went to!
It's been 4:30am all this week for Madison. Mike & I are butt tired again. She seems to be a big pain in the butt in the morning. Otherwise, she is a great dog. I took her for a long walk last night, but it didn't slow her down any. I think that means that she is growing and can handle more exercise. At the Vet on Wednesday she had gained 6lbs in 3 weeks. The vet guesses that she may reach 50-60lbs total. For some reason, I don't see her getting that big. Time will tell. Her latest thing is that she barks at objects. We're never quite sure what it is that she barks at! Sometimes it's the bath tub, or she sees herself in the mirror. The last few days she barks at something on the counter! She is a funny dog.
I'm heading home at noon to pick her up and bring her back to the office with me. Then at 3pm we are going to leave for Rochester. Our big boss (who is gone today) left us an email stating that we should all leave at 3pm today. What a godsend that will be! His words were: "I know there is no way that I would know if you left earlier then that, but the guilt would eat at some of you and I would get a confession anyway." The guy is a riot at times!
I'm almost finished with Big Russ and Me. Great Book. Then, I will begin the mammoth task of My Life by Clinton. I still haven't finished my Naomi Judd book, plus I know that Pat is bringing a few more for me. I need to get back to reading a bit more again.
We're looking forward to the weekend. It should be a lot of fun and relaxing! Cousin TJ will help keep Madison in line-plus 6 more people to watch her will be lovely to give me a rest!
2 quotes that I've recently found that seem to work for our upcoming holiday and the state of our nation. I hope you find them as enlightening as I did.
"The highest patriotism is not blind allegiance to official policy, but a love of one's country deep enough to hold her to a higher standard."
-George McGovern
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."
-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Happy Independence Day!
Monday, June 28, 2004
Only One More Week...
This is my LAST week of work before ten nice days of vacation. I can't wait.
Our weekend was pretty quiet. Yesterday we spent most of the day at Mike's cousin's home on a lake on the western part of the cities. We found out that Madison is truly a water dog. She literally jumped right in the water and started swimming. It was great. She also rolled in dirt and got absolutely filthy so she had to be sprayed down! Later, we took her out on the boat for the first time and she loved it. She actually wanted to jump in the water as the boat was moving. I think she's going to love the lake and the pontoon boat up north when we go! She slept looong and hard all the way home and all night too.
Saturday we did a few errands and went to Best Buy. Mike bought me the Elvis Ultimate Gospel CD that I've been wanting. Awesome CD. I'm not a big gospel freak, but I do like some of them. I had always heard that Elvis had always wanted to do more gospel songs, and that he knew a ton of them by heart. His only album of gospel songs "How Great Thou Art" won 3 Grammy's. It's nice and relaxing to listen to.
I started reading Tim Russert's book "Big Russ and Me". I'm really liking it. His Dad sounds like a great guy. My Clinton book hasn't arrived yet, so I'm hoping it does within the next week. I'd like to take it with me on vacation.
Friday after work I'm going to head home, change, and get Madison. Then we'll head to Rochester for 10 days of hanging out with the NY Webb's and other family. Madison will enjoy her time with TJ-she behaves a lot more when he is around!
This is my LAST week of work before ten nice days of vacation. I can't wait.
Our weekend was pretty quiet. Yesterday we spent most of the day at Mike's cousin's home on a lake on the western part of the cities. We found out that Madison is truly a water dog. She literally jumped right in the water and started swimming. It was great. She also rolled in dirt and got absolutely filthy so she had to be sprayed down! Later, we took her out on the boat for the first time and she loved it. She actually wanted to jump in the water as the boat was moving. I think she's going to love the lake and the pontoon boat up north when we go! She slept looong and hard all the way home and all night too.
Saturday we did a few errands and went to Best Buy. Mike bought me the Elvis Ultimate Gospel CD that I've been wanting. Awesome CD. I'm not a big gospel freak, but I do like some of them. I had always heard that Elvis had always wanted to do more gospel songs, and that he knew a ton of them by heart. His only album of gospel songs "How Great Thou Art" won 3 Grammy's. It's nice and relaxing to listen to.
I started reading Tim Russert's book "Big Russ and Me". I'm really liking it. His Dad sounds like a great guy. My Clinton book hasn't arrived yet, so I'm hoping it does within the next week. I'd like to take it with me on vacation.
Friday after work I'm going to head home, change, and get Madison. Then we'll head to Rochester for 10 days of hanging out with the NY Webb's and other family. Madison will enjoy her time with TJ-she behaves a lot more when he is around!
Friday, June 25, 2004
La La La...
I'm so tired I don't know what I'm doing. I'm at work in a daze. I need sleep. TGIF.
This week has been interesting to watch all the Clinton stuff going on. His appearance on Oprah was especially enlightening. I like Oprah's interview styles and he seemed pretty comfortable. The crowd certainly was on his side.
I ordered the book last week at Barnes and Noble online, so it should be delivered today along with my Big Russ and Me book. I still haven't finished two other books I'm working on. And I bought a puppy book yesterday too. Craziness. But, I'm looking forward to reading Clnton's book. I can't help it.
I gotta go. I'm gonna fall asleep.
I'm so tired I don't know what I'm doing. I'm at work in a daze. I need sleep. TGIF.
This week has been interesting to watch all the Clinton stuff going on. His appearance on Oprah was especially enlightening. I like Oprah's interview styles and he seemed pretty comfortable. The crowd certainly was on his side.
I ordered the book last week at Barnes and Noble online, so it should be delivered today along with my Big Russ and Me book. I still haven't finished two other books I'm working on. And I bought a puppy book yesterday too. Craziness. But, I'm looking forward to reading Clnton's book. I can't help it.
I gotta go. I'm gonna fall asleep.
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Good Morning at 5:30am lately...
And so goes another week of Madison trials! She has taken to getting up around 5:30 every morning. Those of you who know me well know that I'm just not a morning person. Night? Absolutely. So with my sleep problems still entact, this isn't helping. But hey, when she has to pee, she has to pee!
This morning I was so tired that I fell asleep on the couch watching her play on the floor. I heard some paper rustling, but I thought it was just the plastic bottle label she likes to play with. To my surprise when I woke up, she had chewed up an entire People magazine! At this point I was like, Whatever. I'm too tired.
Madison had a great weekend with cousin TJ. She follows him around the house and pretty much does whatever he does. It gave us a bit of a break too with 4 people watching her. Grandpa Barry babysat on Saturday morning and she was a little bit of a poop outside. He found out she likes water-he was trying to wash the car and she kept trying to bite the water and the hose. ;) Her new kennel is working much better. She goes in voluntarily, but still cries when you leave. I don't feel as guilty about her being in there now that she can see what's going on.
Jenni's wedding reception and dance was very nice. Food was amazing. It was nice to see family and hang out with my cousins. We all took a lot of pictures and goofed around. It's great to see all my cousins are growing up into such nice adults!
Work is very slow this week. Makes for some long days. Lots of complaints about silly things, which tends to happen when there isn't much going on. Some days I can't believe that I work with people that resort to saying things like, "why does she get a new desk and I don't? Why does it take precedence over my file cabinets?" To be frank, I don't care! A job is a job and I'm just doing mine.
The dumb thing of the week that I did was this: I forgot my keys in Rochester! As I sat down in my car on Monday morning and reached for my purse, there were no keys. It was then that I realized they were probably sitting on the counter back home. Mike was driving all weekend and he was using his keys. What a dummy I am! Thankfully we have a spare car key, but I was an hour late to work because Mike had to drive home to give me the spare. :)
Another 7 days of work, and then I am off for 10 glorious days in July while the NY Webb's make a visit. I honestly can't wait to catch up on some sleep and relax. This sleep thing is making me feel 50, not 29.
And so goes another week of Madison trials! She has taken to getting up around 5:30 every morning. Those of you who know me well know that I'm just not a morning person. Night? Absolutely. So with my sleep problems still entact, this isn't helping. But hey, when she has to pee, she has to pee!
This morning I was so tired that I fell asleep on the couch watching her play on the floor. I heard some paper rustling, but I thought it was just the plastic bottle label she likes to play with. To my surprise when I woke up, she had chewed up an entire People magazine! At this point I was like, Whatever. I'm too tired.
Madison had a great weekend with cousin TJ. She follows him around the house and pretty much does whatever he does. It gave us a bit of a break too with 4 people watching her. Grandpa Barry babysat on Saturday morning and she was a little bit of a poop outside. He found out she likes water-he was trying to wash the car and she kept trying to bite the water and the hose. ;) Her new kennel is working much better. She goes in voluntarily, but still cries when you leave. I don't feel as guilty about her being in there now that she can see what's going on.
Jenni's wedding reception and dance was very nice. Food was amazing. It was nice to see family and hang out with my cousins. We all took a lot of pictures and goofed around. It's great to see all my cousins are growing up into such nice adults!
Work is very slow this week. Makes for some long days. Lots of complaints about silly things, which tends to happen when there isn't much going on. Some days I can't believe that I work with people that resort to saying things like, "why does she get a new desk and I don't? Why does it take precedence over my file cabinets?" To be frank, I don't care! A job is a job and I'm just doing mine.
The dumb thing of the week that I did was this: I forgot my keys in Rochester! As I sat down in my car on Monday morning and reached for my purse, there were no keys. It was then that I realized they were probably sitting on the counter back home. Mike was driving all weekend and he was using his keys. What a dummy I am! Thankfully we have a spare car key, but I was an hour late to work because Mike had to drive home to give me the spare. :)
Another 7 days of work, and then I am off for 10 glorious days in July while the NY Webb's make a visit. I honestly can't wait to catch up on some sleep and relax. This sleep thing is making me feel 50, not 29.
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
Slow down? Not me.
I was just thinking last night that I don't know the last time that I've sat still for more then 20 minutes on a week day evening. If I'm not watching Madison like a hawk and running her outside, I'm cleaning, or I'm watering the flowers, something. I think I need a break. I just want to get back to reading my book so I can finish it! Sound familiar? It's like I'm a new parent!
Maddy is in Day 3 of crate training. The last 2 days she has not gone to the bathroom in the crate-Sunday must have a taught her something! She still does not like to go in there, even with treats, but she seems to do okay. She is raring to go when we get home, so we have to do lots of playing and walks.
Last night we made another trip to PetSmart to investigate a larger, wire crate for her. Plus, we had to return the gate, which made no sense to keep since she can jump it. What was cute is that there were some puppy training classes going on. There was a boxer, jack russell terrier, golden retriever, and 2 mixed breeds. Maddy was so excited! We definitely need to get her involved in a class. Afterwards she was able to greet a few of the dogs, and then she tried to paw the Jack Russell in the face. I think she just wanted to play, and that was her way of letting him know. Plus, she was larger then him.
We came home with a new crate, a water dish, treats, and a floor mat for her food. She promptly tried to chew the floor mat when I layed that down for her bowls. She is really a chewing machine. This morning she again ran over to crap in the neighbors lawn because she doesn't like getting wet when the sprinkler system comes on at 5:30am. Thankfully, these people adore her and I obviously pick it up. I warned them that she is doing this, and they were so nice about it. It's really appreciated!
Tonight Bryan & Mary are coming with their new baby Hanna! We have not seen Hanna yet-she is just a month old. The pictures we have seen are great-she a cute little chub. Also, my former boss at TM and great friend Alana had a baby boy on Monday! He was 2 weeks early. My co-worker Andrea also had her baby last week. Another boy. It seems like everyone is having babies and they are all coming earlier then their due date.
Work is fair right now. I'm still really tired-even without the caffeine. I think I'm sleeping soundly but I just can't seem to get enough sleep. Madison had me up at 3am today to pee, and then again at 5:30am. That can't help, but what can you do? She's been really good about going back to sleep. Hopefully this weekend I can get a little extra sleep. I guess the other thing I have to get my butt in gear on is exercise.
I was just thinking last night that I don't know the last time that I've sat still for more then 20 minutes on a week day evening. If I'm not watching Madison like a hawk and running her outside, I'm cleaning, or I'm watering the flowers, something. I think I need a break. I just want to get back to reading my book so I can finish it! Sound familiar? It's like I'm a new parent!
Maddy is in Day 3 of crate training. The last 2 days she has not gone to the bathroom in the crate-Sunday must have a taught her something! She still does not like to go in there, even with treats, but she seems to do okay. She is raring to go when we get home, so we have to do lots of playing and walks.
Last night we made another trip to PetSmart to investigate a larger, wire crate for her. Plus, we had to return the gate, which made no sense to keep since she can jump it. What was cute is that there were some puppy training classes going on. There was a boxer, jack russell terrier, golden retriever, and 2 mixed breeds. Maddy was so excited! We definitely need to get her involved in a class. Afterwards she was able to greet a few of the dogs, and then she tried to paw the Jack Russell in the face. I think she just wanted to play, and that was her way of letting him know. Plus, she was larger then him.
We came home with a new crate, a water dish, treats, and a floor mat for her food. She promptly tried to chew the floor mat when I layed that down for her bowls. She is really a chewing machine. This morning she again ran over to crap in the neighbors lawn because she doesn't like getting wet when the sprinkler system comes on at 5:30am. Thankfully, these people adore her and I obviously pick it up. I warned them that she is doing this, and they were so nice about it. It's really appreciated!
Tonight Bryan & Mary are coming with their new baby Hanna! We have not seen Hanna yet-she is just a month old. The pictures we have seen are great-she a cute little chub. Also, my former boss at TM and great friend Alana had a baby boy on Monday! He was 2 weeks early. My co-worker Andrea also had her baby last week. Another boy. It seems like everyone is having babies and they are all coming earlier then their due date.
Work is fair right now. I'm still really tired-even without the caffeine. I think I'm sleeping soundly but I just can't seem to get enough sleep. Madison had me up at 3am today to pee, and then again at 5:30am. That can't help, but what can you do? She's been really good about going back to sleep. Hopefully this weekend I can get a little extra sleep. I guess the other thing I have to get my butt in gear on is exercise.
Monday, June 14, 2004
She's a cat
This morning, as I'm eating breakfast, Madison the puppy comes out from the kitchen from where she was eating her breakfast. She didn't see me at the table eating, so I called to her. She saw me across from the table, so she hopped up on the dining room chair, climbed onto the table, and walked across it to meet me. Can we say CAT anyone?
Madison met cousin TJ this weekend, and they seemed to get along well. TJ was a bit jealous of the attention I gave Madison-so he peed on my foot in the sunroom. Her scent was there on the rug and I think he made his point! Later, he laid in my lap while Maddy chewed on a toy. When I left, he did his usual loud barking to signify that I am not to leave! Although he looks a little rough, he is about 75% TJ. I'll take that over anything.
Maddy was a big hit with Mom & Barry, as well as Pam who stopped by. We then made a trek over to Byron where she met Dad, Debbie & Janelle. Puffy the dog did not care for Madison at all. Dad had to keep her separated. Janelle's comment made sense: "Puffy is a widow now." But, they all enjoyed Madison as well, especially Dad. Maddy has a tendency to melt some hearts. Especially hurting hearts. She is a special little dog.
Yesterday was her first try in the crate for about 2 hours. She pooped in it and pawed at the door. Hopefully today she will understand that if she poops and pees in there, she will have to lay in it all day long. I now understand how Pat felt too about putting Dizzy in a crate. It's not fun and I feel bad. But, the vet said it's the best thing you can do for her. She still is having accidents, but it's always because we are not watching her carefully. She has also learned to sit in just a week-and is starting to know her name. Much to learn!
We received our security deposit of $400 back from the apartment, so we went to buy a grill yesterday! We had grilled barbeque ribs and they were tasty. The rest of the money goes to each of us to spend a little on ourselves. I've gained a few pounds and can't get into some of my shorts. nice. So, I need to buy a few new clothes.
Today is my 7th Day of being caffeine free. I do not enjoy it at all. But, I am determined to do this for better sleeping habits. It is helping and I seem to be sleeping sounder. I can't wear the sleep mask because SOMEONE ate it! All in all, I wake up feeling more rested. I'm existing on water, lemonaide, gatoraide, and Caffeine Free Diet Pepsi. Back in the day I used to drink PepsiFree. It's hard to find Caffeine Free Pepsi or Coke at all. Diet Pepsi tastes better then the Diet Coke. Why should it taste different because of caffeine? I have no idea. But it does. Has anyone tasted the new low carb/calorie Coke?
This weekend we head back to Rochester for my cousin Jenni's wedding reception. We haven't had a wedding dance to go to in a long time, so this should be fun. All the cousins are 21 (except Allie) and over so we can have a few drinks together. Nate is also home from Hawaii. Mike is going to go to a bachelor party in Rochester for one of our college roommates, who is a McCabe from Lanesboro. (Grandpa worked for his grandpa, Dad knows his Dad, etc) I like to call him Kyle Petty-looks just like him! Anyway, Doug's party is Saturday night as well.
Puppy training tips anyone???
This morning, as I'm eating breakfast, Madison the puppy comes out from the kitchen from where she was eating her breakfast. She didn't see me at the table eating, so I called to her. She saw me across from the table, so she hopped up on the dining room chair, climbed onto the table, and walked across it to meet me. Can we say CAT anyone?
Madison met cousin TJ this weekend, and they seemed to get along well. TJ was a bit jealous of the attention I gave Madison-so he peed on my foot in the sunroom. Her scent was there on the rug and I think he made his point! Later, he laid in my lap while Maddy chewed on a toy. When I left, he did his usual loud barking to signify that I am not to leave! Although he looks a little rough, he is about 75% TJ. I'll take that over anything.
Maddy was a big hit with Mom & Barry, as well as Pam who stopped by. We then made a trek over to Byron where she met Dad, Debbie & Janelle. Puffy the dog did not care for Madison at all. Dad had to keep her separated. Janelle's comment made sense: "Puffy is a widow now." But, they all enjoyed Madison as well, especially Dad. Maddy has a tendency to melt some hearts. Especially hurting hearts. She is a special little dog.
Yesterday was her first try in the crate for about 2 hours. She pooped in it and pawed at the door. Hopefully today she will understand that if she poops and pees in there, she will have to lay in it all day long. I now understand how Pat felt too about putting Dizzy in a crate. It's not fun and I feel bad. But, the vet said it's the best thing you can do for her. She still is having accidents, but it's always because we are not watching her carefully. She has also learned to sit in just a week-and is starting to know her name. Much to learn!
We received our security deposit of $400 back from the apartment, so we went to buy a grill yesterday! We had grilled barbeque ribs and they were tasty. The rest of the money goes to each of us to spend a little on ourselves. I've gained a few pounds and can't get into some of my shorts. nice. So, I need to buy a few new clothes.
Today is my 7th Day of being caffeine free. I do not enjoy it at all. But, I am determined to do this for better sleeping habits. It is helping and I seem to be sleeping sounder. I can't wear the sleep mask because SOMEONE ate it! All in all, I wake up feeling more rested. I'm existing on water, lemonaide, gatoraide, and Caffeine Free Diet Pepsi. Back in the day I used to drink PepsiFree. It's hard to find Caffeine Free Pepsi or Coke at all. Diet Pepsi tastes better then the Diet Coke. Why should it taste different because of caffeine? I have no idea. But it does. Has anyone tasted the new low carb/calorie Coke?
This weekend we head back to Rochester for my cousin Jenni's wedding reception. We haven't had a wedding dance to go to in a long time, so this should be fun. All the cousins are 21 (except Allie) and over so we can have a few drinks together. Nate is also home from Hawaii. Mike is going to go to a bachelor party in Rochester for one of our college roommates, who is a McCabe from Lanesboro. (Grandpa worked for his grandpa, Dad knows his Dad, etc) I like to call him Kyle Petty-looks just like him! Anyway, Doug's party is Saturday night as well.
Puppy training tips anyone???
Friday, June 11, 2004
Chewing, Chewing and more Chewing!
Our evenings are spent trying to tire out Madison so that she won't chew the house apart, and will sleep through the night! The sleeping is going well and she usually only has to go out once in the course of the night. She seems to understand that once the lights are off in the bedroom, it's time to sleep.
She is starting to understand her name-except when she is outside! Then, she chooses to ignore and wander. She is starting to understand the concept of sit and outside too. No accidents in the house last night-she keeps going over by the door to let us know she has to go. Otherwise, we pay attention to where she is sniffing and that usually when she has to poop.
On Monday she jumped the gate in the kitchen that we had her penned in with. She had a lovely day of having the house to herself! Thankfully, she didn't damage too much. She did manage to get a hold of my CPAP sleep mask and chewed it up. That is, of course, the most expensive item she could have chosen. :) Otherwise, just Mike's hat and a magazine were casualities. Wednesday/Thursday were spent in the basement. She has her box, blanket, and toys. It's cooler down there for her and she has the run of the whole basement. yesterday she even went to the bathroom on the 'puppy training pad' by the door. We thought that at least we could still work on the potty thing even if we can't be there with her.
Life is pretty much all Madison right now! We haven't gotten a whole lot done, plus it's done nothing but rain. It's really starting to get ridiculous. Tomorrow we are driving down to Rochester for the day to visit TJ and show off Madison. She likes the car, and actually calms down more when she is in there!
Side note: I saw a bumper sticker this morning that I caught my eye. It said 'fety driving'. I'm like, huh? Then I realized that it was 'safety driving' and the first two letters were gone. How safe is this truck actually driving then???
Currently listening to: The Mavericks "Oh What a Crying Shame"
& Lisa Marie Presley "Lights Out"
Our evenings are spent trying to tire out Madison so that she won't chew the house apart, and will sleep through the night! The sleeping is going well and she usually only has to go out once in the course of the night. She seems to understand that once the lights are off in the bedroom, it's time to sleep.
She is starting to understand her name-except when she is outside! Then, she chooses to ignore and wander. She is starting to understand the concept of sit and outside too. No accidents in the house last night-she keeps going over by the door to let us know she has to go. Otherwise, we pay attention to where she is sniffing and that usually when she has to poop.
On Monday she jumped the gate in the kitchen that we had her penned in with. She had a lovely day of having the house to herself! Thankfully, she didn't damage too much. She did manage to get a hold of my CPAP sleep mask and chewed it up. That is, of course, the most expensive item she could have chosen. :) Otherwise, just Mike's hat and a magazine were casualities. Wednesday/Thursday were spent in the basement. She has her box, blanket, and toys. It's cooler down there for her and she has the run of the whole basement. yesterday she even went to the bathroom on the 'puppy training pad' by the door. We thought that at least we could still work on the potty thing even if we can't be there with her.
Life is pretty much all Madison right now! We haven't gotten a whole lot done, plus it's done nothing but rain. It's really starting to get ridiculous. Tomorrow we are driving down to Rochester for the day to visit TJ and show off Madison. She likes the car, and actually calms down more when she is in there!
Side note: I saw a bumper sticker this morning that I caught my eye. It said 'fety driving'. I'm like, huh? Then I realized that it was 'safety driving' and the first two letters were gone. How safe is this truck actually driving then???
Currently listening to: The Mavericks "Oh What a Crying Shame"
& Lisa Marie Presley "Lights Out"
Monday, June 07, 2004
It's Official
We took the plunge and become 'pseduo' parents this weekend and adopted a dog!
She is 12 weeks old and is a Golden Retriever mix, but is all black. Her name is Madison! She came to us from the town of Madison near Montevideo, MN, so we just named her after the town. Maddy for short.
She learned how to go up and down the stairs yesterday, with some help with treats. She's not so sure about the leash and the chair outside, but is getting used to it. We are working to see if we can just keep her off a chain when she is going to the bathroom. She will stay in the yard for the most part, but likes to wander when she sees people.
Today is her first day alone and she didn't like it when I left. I'm worrying about her all day today, but I'm sure she's fine. I assume she'll spend her day sleeping. We blocked off part of the kitchen with a gate because we don't have a dog crate for her yet. This way, she has the freedom to wander around and can look outside. I just hope the potty stuff works okay. She's only had a couple of small accidents so far and has not pooped in the house yet. In short, I'm loving my doggie. She will get to meet TJ this weekend!
That pretty much took up most of our weekend. Matt, Jill & Sam came over Saturday night. He took a liking to Madison and was pulling her hair and patting her. Thankfully, Madison was fine and liked licking him. (she is a BIG licker!) Sam is growing like a weed and is so cute. He likes to babble and is a pretty happy guy. Matt & Jill seem really happy being parents.
Otherwise, we have spent a lot of time outdoors with Madison. She is getting acquainted with the 2 neighbor dogs across the street. She is starting to learn her name a bit and is getting 'outside' pretty good. Lots to teach her as she is at that critical age of learning!
We took the plunge and become 'pseduo' parents this weekend and adopted a dog!
She is 12 weeks old and is a Golden Retriever mix, but is all black. Her name is Madison! She came to us from the town of Madison near Montevideo, MN, so we just named her after the town. Maddy for short.
She learned how to go up and down the stairs yesterday, with some help with treats. She's not so sure about the leash and the chair outside, but is getting used to it. We are working to see if we can just keep her off a chain when she is going to the bathroom. She will stay in the yard for the most part, but likes to wander when she sees people.
Today is her first day alone and she didn't like it when I left. I'm worrying about her all day today, but I'm sure she's fine. I assume she'll spend her day sleeping. We blocked off part of the kitchen with a gate because we don't have a dog crate for her yet. This way, she has the freedom to wander around and can look outside. I just hope the potty stuff works okay. She's only had a couple of small accidents so far and has not pooped in the house yet. In short, I'm loving my doggie. She will get to meet TJ this weekend!
That pretty much took up most of our weekend. Matt, Jill & Sam came over Saturday night. He took a liking to Madison and was pulling her hair and patting her. Thankfully, Madison was fine and liked licking him. (she is a BIG licker!) Sam is growing like a weed and is so cute. He likes to babble and is a pretty happy guy. Matt & Jill seem really happy being parents.
Otherwise, we have spent a lot of time outdoors with Madison. She is getting acquainted with the 2 neighbor dogs across the street. She is starting to learn her name a bit and is getting 'outside' pretty good. Lots to teach her as she is at that critical age of learning!
Tuesday, June 01, 2004
Like Family
Friday night was a tough one for me. Mom called and said that what we figured was true-TJ has a tumor. It's a bad one, pushing from one side into the other lobe of the brain. The vets said they could do chemo/radiation, but these types of tumors don't respond well to treatment. It's probably been going on for up to 6 months, and it's probably genetic. So, they sent him home with prednizone and said to make him comfortable and give him lots of love. By Saturday, he had perked up quite a bit and Mom said he was more like himself. I hope to go home and see him, spend a little time with him, before things get too bad.
I broke down many times on the way up north. I just can't imagine life without that little bugger. He's asked for so little and given so much happiness.
With the rain we've been experiencing for the last few weeks, I need some sunshine. I spent 3 hours last night planting flowers and putzing around outside. I can't sit still, I don't want to sit still. I did the laundry, I did the bills, I sent out some mail, printed out some pictures, you get the idea. Tonight, cleaning the basement.
We did have a nice, all be it short, trip to Babbitt. It was good to see Alex and hang out with him. He's got quite the attitude these days-the terrible two's have set in. He really likes the word "NO". Imagine that? And when he wants something from his Uncle, he just keeps saying, "Mike. MIKE! MIKE! MIKE!" What's cute is when you point to someone and ask who it is. It cracks me up. "Das Grandpa!" "Das Bob!" It was good to have a little one around for some smiles.
And, Joey the Wonder Dog is going to win us $10,000 hopefully! America's Funniest Home Videos (which I never watch, but caught last weekend) is looking for your ugliest dog videos. Well, Joey is a Husky-Wiener Dog mix. Can you get any stranger? He's a cutie. We taped him playing with his favorite bowling ball and pin. He barks and paws at the ball because it drives him nuts that he can't pick it up! I told him if he wins me any money, I'll buy him all the bones he can eat. :)
Friday night was a tough one for me. Mom called and said that what we figured was true-TJ has a tumor. It's a bad one, pushing from one side into the other lobe of the brain. The vets said they could do chemo/radiation, but these types of tumors don't respond well to treatment. It's probably been going on for up to 6 months, and it's probably genetic. So, they sent him home with prednizone and said to make him comfortable and give him lots of love. By Saturday, he had perked up quite a bit and Mom said he was more like himself. I hope to go home and see him, spend a little time with him, before things get too bad.
I broke down many times on the way up north. I just can't imagine life without that little bugger. He's asked for so little and given so much happiness.
With the rain we've been experiencing for the last few weeks, I need some sunshine. I spent 3 hours last night planting flowers and putzing around outside. I can't sit still, I don't want to sit still. I did the laundry, I did the bills, I sent out some mail, printed out some pictures, you get the idea. Tonight, cleaning the basement.
We did have a nice, all be it short, trip to Babbitt. It was good to see Alex and hang out with him. He's got quite the attitude these days-the terrible two's have set in. He really likes the word "NO". Imagine that? And when he wants something from his Uncle, he just keeps saying, "Mike. MIKE! MIKE! MIKE!" What's cute is when you point to someone and ask who it is. It cracks me up. "Das Grandpa!" "Das Bob!" It was good to have a little one around for some smiles.
And, Joey the Wonder Dog is going to win us $10,000 hopefully! America's Funniest Home Videos (which I never watch, but caught last weekend) is looking for your ugliest dog videos. Well, Joey is a Husky-Wiener Dog mix. Can you get any stranger? He's a cutie. We taped him playing with his favorite bowling ball and pin. He barks and paws at the ball because it drives him nuts that he can't pick it up! I told him if he wins me any money, I'll buy him all the bones he can eat. :)
Friday, May 28, 2004
New 'do, New Outlook
It goes with my personality.
When things are stressful and I feel a bit crazed by life, I always end up doing this.
I get a haircut. I dye my hair. I clean. And I don't sit still.
I have done all of this recently.
Last night I cut off about 3 inches of hair and dyed it dark brown in an attempt to get back to my natural hair color. I love it and it feels a 100% better to have the weight of all that hair off my shoulders. I also have not been able to sit down to read a book, because then my mind wanders. So, the answer is to be gone as much as possible each night this week and do chores around the house to keep myself going. So far, so good.
TJ Update: He was at the U of M yesterday and stayed overnight. He is going to have a CT Scan and possibly a spinal tap. The vets are awesome-they told Mom and Barry to keep their hopes up. It could be encephilitis, not a brain tumor. They can treat the encephilitis and it could explain the seizures, the loss of vision, his behavior, etc. I'm willing to accept the worst, but it's good to know there is hope. Fingers crossed, lots of prayers have been said.
Mike & I are heading to the Northwoods today after work. I have not been up that way since January, so I'm looking forward to getting into the great outdoors. I'd actually like to be able to do a little fishing because I'm craving walleye. But, I don't know if there will be time or fish to catch!
Have a great Memorial Day...and I ask that you remember the reason we have this day off. Take a moment to honor those who have died and if you get the chance, go see the new WWII Memorial. I can't wait to see it.
It goes with my personality.
When things are stressful and I feel a bit crazed by life, I always end up doing this.
I get a haircut. I dye my hair. I clean. And I don't sit still.
I have done all of this recently.
Last night I cut off about 3 inches of hair and dyed it dark brown in an attempt to get back to my natural hair color. I love it and it feels a 100% better to have the weight of all that hair off my shoulders. I also have not been able to sit down to read a book, because then my mind wanders. So, the answer is to be gone as much as possible each night this week and do chores around the house to keep myself going. So far, so good.
TJ Update: He was at the U of M yesterday and stayed overnight. He is going to have a CT Scan and possibly a spinal tap. The vets are awesome-they told Mom and Barry to keep their hopes up. It could be encephilitis, not a brain tumor. They can treat the encephilitis and it could explain the seizures, the loss of vision, his behavior, etc. I'm willing to accept the worst, but it's good to know there is hope. Fingers crossed, lots of prayers have been said.
Mike & I are heading to the Northwoods today after work. I have not been up that way since January, so I'm looking forward to getting into the great outdoors. I'd actually like to be able to do a little fishing because I'm craving walleye. But, I don't know if there will be time or fish to catch!
Have a great Memorial Day...and I ask that you remember the reason we have this day off. Take a moment to honor those who have died and if you get the chance, go see the new WWII Memorial. I can't wait to see it.
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
Life is always changing, and I struggle with that.
TJ, my parents dog, (and my dog too in many ways) has been suffering from seizures for last week or so. He hasn't really been himself for almost a month, and the vet thinks he may have a brain tumor. I was so hoping that they would just say that he got into something, needs medicine, and that's that. But, it's not sounding like that is the case.
I watched him for a 2 days almost over the weekend while my parents attempted to go on vacation. But, he had a seizure by the early afternoon of the first day, and another in the night. I was so paranoid that I didn't sleep hardly at all and kept getting him up to see if he was okay. It's the most horrible thing to see him have a seizure. I cried my eyes out each time and held onto him and tried to remain calm. But, it's difficult. Mom is going to check with the vet again, and at the U of M to see if there are any other options, but MRI's and CT scans are going to run very expensive. So, it's really up to them. TJ is only 6 and it just doesn't seem fair. We all just want our crazy, wild dog back again.
I just lost my dog 6 years ago-and she lived to be 17. Our Airedale was 11 and went only 6 months before Taffy. I don't know if I want a dog of my own. It's a hard thing to take when you lose them. I guess I'll just keep praying that TJ is not in pain and that it may possibly be something else. And then come to terms with it all.
To be honest, I am a big baby when it comes to animals in trouble. My mom used to make me turn off Lassie when it was on because I would cry when she would be lost and trying to find her way home. I distinctly remember an episode of Little House on the Prairie when Laura loses her dog Jack to old age. I cried to bad that Mom threatened to turn it off if I didn't stop. The worst movies for me as a kid were Old Yeller and Where the Red Fern Grows. I was in 4th grade when I saw both of those movies in class (on the old film projectors that you ran the film through) and when they were over, I was a mess. My whole desk would be wet from crying. I guess I'm just ultra sensitive to animals, especially dogs. And now, Dad with Norman, I'm so bummed. Norman is just the sweetest thing in the world.
Anyway, tonight we are cleaning out the apartment and handing over our keys. We haven't lived there in a month, and tonight we have a good session of stuff to tackle. Hopefully it won't take too long. Then, it is all official and we can turn the page of that part of our life. I hope it finally makes us feel like we have completed everything.
TJ, my parents dog, (and my dog too in many ways) has been suffering from seizures for last week or so. He hasn't really been himself for almost a month, and the vet thinks he may have a brain tumor. I was so hoping that they would just say that he got into something, needs medicine, and that's that. But, it's not sounding like that is the case.
I watched him for a 2 days almost over the weekend while my parents attempted to go on vacation. But, he had a seizure by the early afternoon of the first day, and another in the night. I was so paranoid that I didn't sleep hardly at all and kept getting him up to see if he was okay. It's the most horrible thing to see him have a seizure. I cried my eyes out each time and held onto him and tried to remain calm. But, it's difficult. Mom is going to check with the vet again, and at the U of M to see if there are any other options, but MRI's and CT scans are going to run very expensive. So, it's really up to them. TJ is only 6 and it just doesn't seem fair. We all just want our crazy, wild dog back again.
I just lost my dog 6 years ago-and she lived to be 17. Our Airedale was 11 and went only 6 months before Taffy. I don't know if I want a dog of my own. It's a hard thing to take when you lose them. I guess I'll just keep praying that TJ is not in pain and that it may possibly be something else. And then come to terms with it all.
To be honest, I am a big baby when it comes to animals in trouble. My mom used to make me turn off Lassie when it was on because I would cry when she would be lost and trying to find her way home. I distinctly remember an episode of Little House on the Prairie when Laura loses her dog Jack to old age. I cried to bad that Mom threatened to turn it off if I didn't stop. The worst movies for me as a kid were Old Yeller and Where the Red Fern Grows. I was in 4th grade when I saw both of those movies in class (on the old film projectors that you ran the film through) and when they were over, I was a mess. My whole desk would be wet from crying. I guess I'm just ultra sensitive to animals, especially dogs. And now, Dad with Norman, I'm so bummed. Norman is just the sweetest thing in the world.
Anyway, tonight we are cleaning out the apartment and handing over our keys. We haven't lived there in a month, and tonight we have a good session of stuff to tackle. Hopefully it won't take too long. Then, it is all official and we can turn the page of that part of our life. I hope it finally makes us feel like we have completed everything.
Wednesday, May 19, 2004
Ummm, No.
"Producers have visited the Hernando, Miss., area looking for possible locations for a movie based on the life of Johnny Cash and his wife, June Carter Cash. "Walk the Line," now in preproduction, is expected to star Joaquin Phoenix as Cash and Reese Witherspoon as June Carter Cash."
Unfortunely, I can't see either one of them as John or June. Suggestions, anyone?
"Producers have visited the Hernando, Miss., area looking for possible locations for a movie based on the life of Johnny Cash and his wife, June Carter Cash. "Walk the Line," now in preproduction, is expected to star Joaquin Phoenix as Cash and Reese Witherspoon as June Carter Cash."
Unfortunely, I can't see either one of them as John or June. Suggestions, anyone?
It's only Wednesday.
It seems as though it should be Friday by now, for some reason. Long week for me, not sure why.
I did however have a great night on Monday night. I attended a seminar by Naomi Judd (the country singer whose daughters are Ashely Judd and Wynonna) in Minneapolis. It was in a ballroom, and was limited to about 100 people or so. I was excited because 1) She is involved in Spirit, Mind, Body healing 2) She has a great personality 3) I've always liked her music. Her lecture was about how to take control of your life and get to a better place. Well, I'm at a place in my life right now that I could use a little of that! So, I went. And as I entered the building and went up the escalator, who should be in front of me? Naomi! Got to say hi. I then went to purchase her new book before entering the seminar.
Seminar was fantastic. I took 5 pages worth of notes. She had some great information that makes you stop and think about what one is doing with their life. I'll share one brief piece that hit home with me: You're only allowed to be a victim in life once. After that, you are volunteering.
Afterwards, they announced she would be signing her book. So, like a crazed fan (I walked,didn't run) I went to get in line. After only waiting 10 minutes, she signed my book, shook my hand, and actually took time to talk to me. I mentioned to her that she had once called Dad to thank him for an article that he wrote about Wynonna after she went solo. She remembered him, the conversation, and said again, "I just loved how he wrote it." She said, "You tell your Dad hi, and that I remember him well." Then she thanked me for coming, was glad that I wanted to make changes in my life, and wished me well.
I have to say that I was seriously impressed with her. There was no 'celebrity' put on by her. What you see is what you get, and she says what she's thinking. I came away respecting her more then ever. Then, I promptly pulled out my phone as I was leaving, called Mom and said, "I MET NAOMI JUDD!!" I walked in the door and said the same thing to Mike. Can you tell I was excited?
Yesterday, I received the CPAP machine that I will be wearing at night to help my sleep apnea. I wore it last night and it sucked. They told me to give it a few weeks because there is a definite adjustment. I woke up with a headache today, and didn't even wear the thing all night long cuz it bugged me so bad. Hopefully I set it up correctly, because I did have a one hour training on how to use the damn thing! Mike now calls me Darth Vader at night. :)
Mike's parents, sister and nephew arrive tomorrow. They are all heading to Iowa together on Friday for their annual visit and to celebrate Mike's mom's birthday-the big 5-0! I have not seen Alex since January, so I'm anxious to see how much he's grown. I'm sure he is already talking about going to Uncle 'Bike's house!
I'm home this weekend, I think, on my own working on the house stuff again. I might be dog sitting TJ while Mom & Barry go on vacation. TJ had two seizures over the weekend, which has never happened before, so I'm waiting to hear what the diagnosis was. I love my doggie so much!
It seems as though it should be Friday by now, for some reason. Long week for me, not sure why.
I did however have a great night on Monday night. I attended a seminar by Naomi Judd (the country singer whose daughters are Ashely Judd and Wynonna) in Minneapolis. It was in a ballroom, and was limited to about 100 people or so. I was excited because 1) She is involved in Spirit, Mind, Body healing 2) She has a great personality 3) I've always liked her music. Her lecture was about how to take control of your life and get to a better place. Well, I'm at a place in my life right now that I could use a little of that! So, I went. And as I entered the building and went up the escalator, who should be in front of me? Naomi! Got to say hi. I then went to purchase her new book before entering the seminar.
Seminar was fantastic. I took 5 pages worth of notes. She had some great information that makes you stop and think about what one is doing with their life. I'll share one brief piece that hit home with me: You're only allowed to be a victim in life once. After that, you are volunteering.
Afterwards, they announced she would be signing her book. So, like a crazed fan (I walked,didn't run) I went to get in line. After only waiting 10 minutes, she signed my book, shook my hand, and actually took time to talk to me. I mentioned to her that she had once called Dad to thank him for an article that he wrote about Wynonna after she went solo. She remembered him, the conversation, and said again, "I just loved how he wrote it." She said, "You tell your Dad hi, and that I remember him well." Then she thanked me for coming, was glad that I wanted to make changes in my life, and wished me well.
I have to say that I was seriously impressed with her. There was no 'celebrity' put on by her. What you see is what you get, and she says what she's thinking. I came away respecting her more then ever. Then, I promptly pulled out my phone as I was leaving, called Mom and said, "I MET NAOMI JUDD!!" I walked in the door and said the same thing to Mike. Can you tell I was excited?
Yesterday, I received the CPAP machine that I will be wearing at night to help my sleep apnea. I wore it last night and it sucked. They told me to give it a few weeks because there is a definite adjustment. I woke up with a headache today, and didn't even wear the thing all night long cuz it bugged me so bad. Hopefully I set it up correctly, because I did have a one hour training on how to use the damn thing! Mike now calls me Darth Vader at night. :)
Mike's parents, sister and nephew arrive tomorrow. They are all heading to Iowa together on Friday for their annual visit and to celebrate Mike's mom's birthday-the big 5-0! I have not seen Alex since January, so I'm anxious to see how much he's grown. I'm sure he is already talking about going to Uncle 'Bike's house!
I'm home this weekend, I think, on my own working on the house stuff again. I might be dog sitting TJ while Mom & Barry go on vacation. TJ had two seizures over the weekend, which has never happened before, so I'm waiting to hear what the diagnosis was. I love my doggie so much!
Friday, May 14, 2004
No rants today, but I was glad to see that Miramax settled the issue with Disney, and they're still going to find a way to distribute Michael Moore's film.
I caught Mike's cold, so I've been sick all week. Sucked. I still have not received my CPAP (the device I will have to wear to bed at night for sleeping) so my sleep and restless legs are nasty. When I came back to work yesterday and was hit with all the shit that had happened while I was gone the day before, I tackled it head on with the following comment: "I am incapable of bullshit today." Let's just say I made headway with a few vendors that were giving me crap.
On Wednesday night, my step-dad Barry graduated from Rochester Community and Technical College! We trekked down to Rochester for the big night to watch him accept his diploma and cheer his hard work. He deserves much credit for working so hard. I know it was challenging for him, but he did an awesome job. I have pictures, and I'm trying to find time to create a site, so hopefully I can post them soon.
I am heading to Duluth tomorrow morning with my friend Jeannette to go to a wedding. It's Terri, our former co-worker from Target Market. She is marrying her British lovah, as we like to call him. He's from Manchester, England and has a wicked cool accent. We've only met him once, so we are looking forward to seeing him again and his family. We'll get to see how those brits can party! I'm curious to know if all the women will wear large hats. I had a boss that was from England and she said that all the women wear hats to weddings over there. Interesting...
Last weekend my aunt Pam came up to help me decorate my kitchen. It turned out so awesome! We put up a bunch of cool Elvis stuff, along with a few Coca Cola items. I bought a red Coca Cola bakers rack that I put in the dining room, along with what they used to call a 'utility cart' for the kitchen. It has a coke logo on it as well. The kitchen won't have a total 50's look to it, but it will be close. Now I need to paint both bathrooms and I should be done with that part of things. It's fun, but demanding at times. We love our house, but the drive is wearing on me. I wouldn't care if it was just driving, it's the fighting rush hour that sucks. Oh well. I keep telling myself that it's worth it because of the quiet and our location. And it is.
We also went to this furniture place called HOM last night. We always thought it would be too expensive, but it was really reasonable. And, it was huge! They had everything, including an enormous statue of Elvis for $530! Anyway, the smartest marketing tool they put into that place was a cookie shop. A FREE cookie shop. They have a kitchen right there that bakes homemade cookies, and they offer free soda, coffee, water, and juice. There is a little cafe area to sit in while you dine away on those luscious, moist cookies. Yum. The place smells like a home, and feels like one too. What an idea.
By the way, we did find some furniture we liked, we just have to wait awhile to buy it.
Two recent movies: Mean Girls and The Pianoist. I liked Mean Girls more then Mike. I thought it was extremely well written and funny. Pretty accurate portrayal of girls that age, and they went just a tad to extremes for a good laugh. 2 thumbs up. The Pianoist was excellent. Adrian Brody is a fantastic actor who highly deserved his Academy Award for Best Actor. Very sad movie, dark, depressing and it gave the viewer the exact taste of what life in the Warsaw Ghetto was like during the Holocaust. I did not know it was based on a true story. 2 Thumbs Up.
Congrats to Molly who graduates from UW-Madison tomorrow!
*Music* Elvis: 2nd to None
I caught Mike's cold, so I've been sick all week. Sucked. I still have not received my CPAP (the device I will have to wear to bed at night for sleeping) so my sleep and restless legs are nasty. When I came back to work yesterday and was hit with all the shit that had happened while I was gone the day before, I tackled it head on with the following comment: "I am incapable of bullshit today." Let's just say I made headway with a few vendors that were giving me crap.
On Wednesday night, my step-dad Barry graduated from Rochester Community and Technical College! We trekked down to Rochester for the big night to watch him accept his diploma and cheer his hard work. He deserves much credit for working so hard. I know it was challenging for him, but he did an awesome job. I have pictures, and I'm trying to find time to create a site, so hopefully I can post them soon.
I am heading to Duluth tomorrow morning with my friend Jeannette to go to a wedding. It's Terri, our former co-worker from Target Market. She is marrying her British lovah, as we like to call him. He's from Manchester, England and has a wicked cool accent. We've only met him once, so we are looking forward to seeing him again and his family. We'll get to see how those brits can party! I'm curious to know if all the women will wear large hats. I had a boss that was from England and she said that all the women wear hats to weddings over there. Interesting...
Last weekend my aunt Pam came up to help me decorate my kitchen. It turned out so awesome! We put up a bunch of cool Elvis stuff, along with a few Coca Cola items. I bought a red Coca Cola bakers rack that I put in the dining room, along with what they used to call a 'utility cart' for the kitchen. It has a coke logo on it as well. The kitchen won't have a total 50's look to it, but it will be close. Now I need to paint both bathrooms and I should be done with that part of things. It's fun, but demanding at times. We love our house, but the drive is wearing on me. I wouldn't care if it was just driving, it's the fighting rush hour that sucks. Oh well. I keep telling myself that it's worth it because of the quiet and our location. And it is.
We also went to this furniture place called HOM last night. We always thought it would be too expensive, but it was really reasonable. And, it was huge! They had everything, including an enormous statue of Elvis for $530! Anyway, the smartest marketing tool they put into that place was a cookie shop. A FREE cookie shop. They have a kitchen right there that bakes homemade cookies, and they offer free soda, coffee, water, and juice. There is a little cafe area to sit in while you dine away on those luscious, moist cookies. Yum. The place smells like a home, and feels like one too. What an idea.
By the way, we did find some furniture we liked, we just have to wait awhile to buy it.
Two recent movies: Mean Girls and The Pianoist. I liked Mean Girls more then Mike. I thought it was extremely well written and funny. Pretty accurate portrayal of girls that age, and they went just a tad to extremes for a good laugh. 2 thumbs up. The Pianoist was excellent. Adrian Brody is a fantastic actor who highly deserved his Academy Award for Best Actor. Very sad movie, dark, depressing and it gave the viewer the exact taste of what life in the Warsaw Ghetto was like during the Holocaust. I did not know it was based on a true story. 2 Thumbs Up.
Congrats to Molly who graduates from UW-Madison tomorrow!
*Music* Elvis: 2nd to None
Friday, May 07, 2004
I know it's been a few weeks, but I've got a rant.
What the hell is America coming to? When Disney blocks its Miramax division from releasing a Michael Moore movie, there is a problem. Is there such a thing anymore as freedom of speech? Or are we so wrapped up into trying to figure out exactly what 'freedom of speech' consists of that we fail to see the real reason our Founding Fathers created it? I know that we still have it better then most people in the world, but I get more frustrated every day I watch the news or read the paper. I pride myself on trying to see both sides of the picture. Yes, I am a Democrat. But I still try to make a decision based on the facts, not on partisian sides. But each day, especially this week, I find myself getting angrier with this administration and the crap that we are being fed. And I'm not just mad at Bush and his cabinet, I'm mad at the Senate, the House, everybody. I'm getting tired of career politicians. I'm starting to wonder if there are many individuals out there who honestly 'care' about the average Joe. We can't get our budgets balanced, we can't pull our soldiers out of conflict, we can't stop our gas prices from rising, it goes on and on.
I miss Paul Wellstone. 'Nuff said.
The finale of Friends last night wrapped up everything into a nice little package, the way I think we all hoped and knew it would be. I will miss this show. Hands down, this is my favorite show of all time. I quote it frequently. I still don't think Matt LeBlanc's spinoff will do well, but hey, give it a try.
Still unpacking and getting settled into life at the new house. Thanks to Mom, who came up last Saturday for a few hours, she was able to get some things organized. I was so tired of unpacking, things had just started to lay around and not get put into any kind of semblance of order. Thankfully mom's are very good in this area. Or, at least mine is! Mike was also gone up North last weekend, so I hung out on my own which was really nice. I slept, I read, I unpacked. Just needed a little alone time I guess.
I received the results to my sleep clinic study, which were very interesting. They have identified that I have a mild sleep apnea. This means that I am waking up (my brain is waking up) about 20 times an hour from snoring. The snoring is causing me to stop breathing or have shallow breathing. Apparently, I have a very long uvula (the hangy ball thing at the back of your mouth) and it lays on my tongue when I go to sleep. This creates a suction affect and closes down the air ways! Fun. I also stay in the REM sleep about 15% more then the average person, indicating that I dream a lot. Yep, could have told them that one! The REM sleep is the mentally refreshing sleep, the stage before REM is the physically refreshing sleep. I am not getting enough quality in either of them. The answer is to where a mask over my noise that pumps oxygen into my brain. It keeps that air ways open and should prevent snoring. We'll see if I can tolerate wearing it while I sleep! I should hopefully get it next week. All I know is that I have slept very little this week (I have restless legs as well) and I'm ready to tip over today. TGIF
Last, our visit from Pat & Paige was great. It was short and went fast, but we're so glad they were able to make it. Paige has grown so much and has such a great personality. She cracks me up! And, I've got someone to defend me from my brother at last. When Pat was picking on me she said, "Um, excuse me Dad, but you're not the boss of Aunt Kristin." YAY! And, she had to tease Mike so when she saw him she said, "How's Crusty doing?" This is in reference to Rusty Wallace, who has been Crusty for so long since he's an aging NASCAR driver. Crusty, however, finally won a race recently, so he's not so Crusty anymore. But, Paige is a big Bobby Labonte fan, so she had to tease Mike.
We also spent time with Grandpa and Grandma Webb. Paige and I tracked down the Uncle Wiggly board game, Monopoly from 1953 (I think), Spinner Winner (which we never really learned how to play), the puzzle of the United States, and some of Grandma's old school books and papers. I think Grandma got a kick out of watching us play the games. The old Grandma popped up at one point when she said, "I think you might need some more light over there." She used to always say that when we read or played games. :) Altzheimers is a strange disease. On a rare occasion the old Grandma does show up and it's always a treat when she does. Even though she is still here with us, I really miss Grandma the way she was.
*Music* The Doors Greatest Hits
What the hell is America coming to? When Disney blocks its Miramax division from releasing a Michael Moore movie, there is a problem. Is there such a thing anymore as freedom of speech? Or are we so wrapped up into trying to figure out exactly what 'freedom of speech' consists of that we fail to see the real reason our Founding Fathers created it? I know that we still have it better then most people in the world, but I get more frustrated every day I watch the news or read the paper. I pride myself on trying to see both sides of the picture. Yes, I am a Democrat. But I still try to make a decision based on the facts, not on partisian sides. But each day, especially this week, I find myself getting angrier with this administration and the crap that we are being fed. And I'm not just mad at Bush and his cabinet, I'm mad at the Senate, the House, everybody. I'm getting tired of career politicians. I'm starting to wonder if there are many individuals out there who honestly 'care' about the average Joe. We can't get our budgets balanced, we can't pull our soldiers out of conflict, we can't stop our gas prices from rising, it goes on and on.
I miss Paul Wellstone. 'Nuff said.
The finale of Friends last night wrapped up everything into a nice little package, the way I think we all hoped and knew it would be. I will miss this show. Hands down, this is my favorite show of all time. I quote it frequently. I still don't think Matt LeBlanc's spinoff will do well, but hey, give it a try.
Still unpacking and getting settled into life at the new house. Thanks to Mom, who came up last Saturday for a few hours, she was able to get some things organized. I was so tired of unpacking, things had just started to lay around and not get put into any kind of semblance of order. Thankfully mom's are very good in this area. Or, at least mine is! Mike was also gone up North last weekend, so I hung out on my own which was really nice. I slept, I read, I unpacked. Just needed a little alone time I guess.
I received the results to my sleep clinic study, which were very interesting. They have identified that I have a mild sleep apnea. This means that I am waking up (my brain is waking up) about 20 times an hour from snoring. The snoring is causing me to stop breathing or have shallow breathing. Apparently, I have a very long uvula (the hangy ball thing at the back of your mouth) and it lays on my tongue when I go to sleep. This creates a suction affect and closes down the air ways! Fun. I also stay in the REM sleep about 15% more then the average person, indicating that I dream a lot. Yep, could have told them that one! The REM sleep is the mentally refreshing sleep, the stage before REM is the physically refreshing sleep. I am not getting enough quality in either of them. The answer is to where a mask over my noise that pumps oxygen into my brain. It keeps that air ways open and should prevent snoring. We'll see if I can tolerate wearing it while I sleep! I should hopefully get it next week. All I know is that I have slept very little this week (I have restless legs as well) and I'm ready to tip over today. TGIF
Last, our visit from Pat & Paige was great. It was short and went fast, but we're so glad they were able to make it. Paige has grown so much and has such a great personality. She cracks me up! And, I've got someone to defend me from my brother at last. When Pat was picking on me she said, "Um, excuse me Dad, but you're not the boss of Aunt Kristin." YAY! And, she had to tease Mike so when she saw him she said, "How's Crusty doing?" This is in reference to Rusty Wallace, who has been Crusty for so long since he's an aging NASCAR driver. Crusty, however, finally won a race recently, so he's not so Crusty anymore. But, Paige is a big Bobby Labonte fan, so she had to tease Mike.
We also spent time with Grandpa and Grandma Webb. Paige and I tracked down the Uncle Wiggly board game, Monopoly from 1953 (I think), Spinner Winner (which we never really learned how to play), the puzzle of the United States, and some of Grandma's old school books and papers. I think Grandma got a kick out of watching us play the games. The old Grandma popped up at one point when she said, "I think you might need some more light over there." She used to always say that when we read or played games. :) Altzheimers is a strange disease. On a rare occasion the old Grandma does show up and it's always a treat when she does. Even though she is still here with us, I really miss Grandma the way she was.
*Music* The Doors Greatest Hits
Monday, April 19, 2004
Moving On Up
It's official, we are completely moved in. What a process!
Although we are going to be living amongst boxes for a very long time, we are able to use the living room, kitchen, bathrooms and bedroom. I don't know where very much stuff is, but it's there!
The only casualties of moving were the following:
1 Coca-Cola Salt shaker
1 ripped bed sheet
1 plate glassed door
Yep, I broke an entire glass door at our apartment. The weather yesterday was just psycho. The temperature reached 88 degrees and was humid beyond belief. There were tornado warnings everywhere and was fast approaching the Twin Cities. I had to run up to the apartment to pick up the rest of the food from the kitchen, so I made a dash up there thinking I had plenty of time.
The longer I was there, the darker and more windy it became. So as I'm carrying the cooler, my last load, out the door I pushed open the backdoor of the building to step outside. As I used my foot to push the door, the wind grabbed it, blew it against the brick wall and shattered glass everywhere. I was very lucky.
I only sustained a small cut on my hand, but of course it bled profusely down my hand. I stood there not knowing what to do, so I went and put the cooler in the car and walked over to the neighbor lady who works at the rental office. She is a dear-more worried about my hand then anything. She went to make the call to the fix it guys, when they happened to walk out to the parking lot and saw the door. I felt so bad-but they were awesome and knew the wind did it. So, I left them to fix the mess as I drove home with my hand wrapped up in kleenex.
I was wearing shorts, sandals and a tshirt. I could have been cut a lot worse. But I still felt like a dumb ass.
The sirens did blow around 8pm last night, but I think it was just cuz of the winds. We were in the midst of cooking a late supper, so we didn't go downstairs. I stood and looked out the door because it was way cooler to watch. There were also wild fires earlier in the day that burned up about 500 acres, so it was crazy. Once again, April in Minnesota is unpredictable in the weather department.
**I like my cousin Molly's idea of posting what she is listening to in the music area. I'm going to try to remember to do so**
Wynonna-What the World Needs Now
alternately with VH1 Storytellers Johnny Cash & Willie Nelson
It's official, we are completely moved in. What a process!
Although we are going to be living amongst boxes for a very long time, we are able to use the living room, kitchen, bathrooms and bedroom. I don't know where very much stuff is, but it's there!
The only casualties of moving were the following:
1 Coca-Cola Salt shaker
1 ripped bed sheet
1 plate glassed door
Yep, I broke an entire glass door at our apartment. The weather yesterday was just psycho. The temperature reached 88 degrees and was humid beyond belief. There were tornado warnings everywhere and was fast approaching the Twin Cities. I had to run up to the apartment to pick up the rest of the food from the kitchen, so I made a dash up there thinking I had plenty of time.
The longer I was there, the darker and more windy it became. So as I'm carrying the cooler, my last load, out the door I pushed open the backdoor of the building to step outside. As I used my foot to push the door, the wind grabbed it, blew it against the brick wall and shattered glass everywhere. I was very lucky.
I only sustained a small cut on my hand, but of course it bled profusely down my hand. I stood there not knowing what to do, so I went and put the cooler in the car and walked over to the neighbor lady who works at the rental office. She is a dear-more worried about my hand then anything. She went to make the call to the fix it guys, when they happened to walk out to the parking lot and saw the door. I felt so bad-but they were awesome and knew the wind did it. So, I left them to fix the mess as I drove home with my hand wrapped up in kleenex.
I was wearing shorts, sandals and a tshirt. I could have been cut a lot worse. But I still felt like a dumb ass.
The sirens did blow around 8pm last night, but I think it was just cuz of the winds. We were in the midst of cooking a late supper, so we didn't go downstairs. I stood and looked out the door because it was way cooler to watch. There were also wild fires earlier in the day that burned up about 500 acres, so it was crazy. Once again, April in Minnesota is unpredictable in the weather department.
**I like my cousin Molly's idea of posting what she is listening to in the music area. I'm going to try to remember to do so**
Wynonna-What the World Needs Now
alternately with VH1 Storytellers Johnny Cash & Willie Nelson
Wednesday, April 14, 2004
Sleep Clinic anyone?
At about 8pm last night, I drove over to Woodbury and spent the night at a Sleep Clinic. To sum it up in one word:
Wierd.
The reasoning behind going to the clinic is that I have never slept well. It's probably genetic, according to my dad, and he's probably right in many ways. I have night terrors, I have nightmares (there is a difference), I rock back in forth, I snore (which I never used to do), I have restless legs. All of this makes me feel extremely unrested the next day and I often want to just put my head on my desk and sleep.
Two things that I need to set as goals for myself that will help: stop the caffeine and go back to regular exercise. I admit, I've been so busy with work and moving that I have not gotten back to regular exercise. And the caffeine has been necessary to keep myself awake when I don't get enough sleep. Unfortunately, it starts a cycle that goes around and around.
Feeling like a dork, I came dressed in a tshirt and pajama pants. I also brought along my trusted blanket (yes Pat, I brought it along with me), my pillow, and a stuffed animal. I was informed that around 10pm the tech would come in to start hooking me up for the night. Until then, I was allowed to watch tv, read, etc.
The room looked like a small hotel room. I had a very comfortable sleep number bed, which I highly recommend now. (My number is 30!) The television was mounted on the wall and I had a table, pillows and extra blankets. So, I read through a TV guide, wrote out some birthday cards, and watched Judging Amy (which I've never watched) on CBS.
At 10 pm my tech came in to set me up for the night. Beth was young, very nice, and very talkative. She works 3 nights a week and has to stay awake the whole night to watch the patients. I ended up with electrodes on my legs, 4 on my face, 5 on my head (glued into my hair with this goop) and 2 on my chest. I also felt like ET with a monitor on my index finger to monitor my oxygen levels. It glowed! I was told to lay down (she even covered me up) and she would come on the intercom and let me know what to do.
Her voice came through the wall (very strange) and asked me to do some various things to calibrate the electrodes. (i.e. point your toes, blink your eyes, hold your breath.) Then Beth told me if I needed anything during the night, I should simply speak out loud and she would come in to help me. Then it was good night!
I admit, I had a hell of a time falling asleep. But, the night was fairly typical for me with lots of tossing and turning. It was difficult to move very much because of the wiring. Only once in the course of the night did she come in and wake me. One of the electrodes had fallen off and she had to rewire it, which only took a few seconds. Back to sleep I went.
Out of nowhere, a voice wakes me at 6:45am and says, "Good morning Kristin. I'll be in shortly to unwire you." Scared the crap out of me. And I was extremely groggy. When she came in she informed me that I had snored during the night and had restless legs, but that I didn't appear to have any resperatory problems. I will find out the complete analysis in 2 weeks.
I was home by 7 am, where I promptly ate a bowl of cereal and went back to sleep. I didn't have to be to work until 10am, so I took advantage of the time. When I took a shower, it took me four tries to wash my hair to get out the goop they use. Gross is all I have to say.
All in all, the experience was fine. Just a little strange. My hope is that I find out why I do the things I do in my sleep and what I can do to feel rested in the morning!
Last, we should be completely moved in to the house by Saturday night. We painted last Friday with mom, and I have one coat left to do in the kitchen. I'm painting one wall RED, because I'm decorating with Coca Cola and Elvis, so I want a 50's style look. Red is more difficult to paint with then I ever thought it would be. 4 coats of paint!
We drove to Rochester late on Saturday evening and spent the night so that we could see Amy (who is home) at a little movie night at the Lamb's house. The girls ended up staying upstairs chatting all night, while Mike & Charlie watched Sea Biscuit on Charlie's awesome new tv. It was so loud, it sounded like the horses were galloping through the living room upstairs!
Sunday we went to Dave's for Easter. A nice brunch and some fun with the cousins. Nothing major, home by late afternoon. Wish I could have gone to Grandpa and Grandma's as well.
Pat & Paige arrive a week from today. We are looking forward to their visit. Grace especially can't wait to hang out with Paige she said!
At about 8pm last night, I drove over to Woodbury and spent the night at a Sleep Clinic. To sum it up in one word:
Wierd.
The reasoning behind going to the clinic is that I have never slept well. It's probably genetic, according to my dad, and he's probably right in many ways. I have night terrors, I have nightmares (there is a difference), I rock back in forth, I snore (which I never used to do), I have restless legs. All of this makes me feel extremely unrested the next day and I often want to just put my head on my desk and sleep.
Two things that I need to set as goals for myself that will help: stop the caffeine and go back to regular exercise. I admit, I've been so busy with work and moving that I have not gotten back to regular exercise. And the caffeine has been necessary to keep myself awake when I don't get enough sleep. Unfortunately, it starts a cycle that goes around and around.
Feeling like a dork, I came dressed in a tshirt and pajama pants. I also brought along my trusted blanket (yes Pat, I brought it along with me), my pillow, and a stuffed animal. I was informed that around 10pm the tech would come in to start hooking me up for the night. Until then, I was allowed to watch tv, read, etc.
The room looked like a small hotel room. I had a very comfortable sleep number bed, which I highly recommend now. (My number is 30!) The television was mounted on the wall and I had a table, pillows and extra blankets. So, I read through a TV guide, wrote out some birthday cards, and watched Judging Amy (which I've never watched) on CBS.
At 10 pm my tech came in to set me up for the night. Beth was young, very nice, and very talkative. She works 3 nights a week and has to stay awake the whole night to watch the patients. I ended up with electrodes on my legs, 4 on my face, 5 on my head (glued into my hair with this goop) and 2 on my chest. I also felt like ET with a monitor on my index finger to monitor my oxygen levels. It glowed! I was told to lay down (she even covered me up) and she would come on the intercom and let me know what to do.
Her voice came through the wall (very strange) and asked me to do some various things to calibrate the electrodes. (i.e. point your toes, blink your eyes, hold your breath.) Then Beth told me if I needed anything during the night, I should simply speak out loud and she would come in to help me. Then it was good night!
I admit, I had a hell of a time falling asleep. But, the night was fairly typical for me with lots of tossing and turning. It was difficult to move very much because of the wiring. Only once in the course of the night did she come in and wake me. One of the electrodes had fallen off and she had to rewire it, which only took a few seconds. Back to sleep I went.
Out of nowhere, a voice wakes me at 6:45am and says, "Good morning Kristin. I'll be in shortly to unwire you." Scared the crap out of me. And I was extremely groggy. When she came in she informed me that I had snored during the night and had restless legs, but that I didn't appear to have any resperatory problems. I will find out the complete analysis in 2 weeks.
I was home by 7 am, where I promptly ate a bowl of cereal and went back to sleep. I didn't have to be to work until 10am, so I took advantage of the time. When I took a shower, it took me four tries to wash my hair to get out the goop they use. Gross is all I have to say.
All in all, the experience was fine. Just a little strange. My hope is that I find out why I do the things I do in my sleep and what I can do to feel rested in the morning!
Last, we should be completely moved in to the house by Saturday night. We painted last Friday with mom, and I have one coat left to do in the kitchen. I'm painting one wall RED, because I'm decorating with Coca Cola and Elvis, so I want a 50's style look. Red is more difficult to paint with then I ever thought it would be. 4 coats of paint!
We drove to Rochester late on Saturday evening and spent the night so that we could see Amy (who is home) at a little movie night at the Lamb's house. The girls ended up staying upstairs chatting all night, while Mike & Charlie watched Sea Biscuit on Charlie's awesome new tv. It was so loud, it sounded like the horses were galloping through the living room upstairs!
Sunday we went to Dave's for Easter. A nice brunch and some fun with the cousins. Nothing major, home by late afternoon. Wish I could have gone to Grandpa and Grandma's as well.
Pat & Paige arrive a week from today. We are looking forward to their visit. Grace especially can't wait to hang out with Paige she said!
Wednesday, April 07, 2004
We are currently about 3/4 of the way moved into the house.
Thanks to my parents coming up on Sunday, we were able to make 2 trips with 3 vehicles. All that is really left is the furniture, our clothes, and what's left of the kitchen. On Friday, I'm going to try to paint with my mom. Mike is going to fill some nail holes tomorrow and get things ready. On Mondy night I washed clothes down there and started unpacking the kitchen. The challenge is now finding where to put everything. You never realize how much crap you own until you start to move!
It does feel like our home now and we are looking forward to being there permanently.
On Saturday my friend Jill & I drove to Rochester to go to the wedding shower of our college friend Erika. Some newer shower games that were better then the traditional ones. Great food, and she was happy that we had come. I guess that's what it really is all about. Still haven't met her husband to be yet!
The weather has been "delightful" the last few days with temps reaching 60's-70's. It's supposed to snow again soon, but I guess we can be happy that spring is really coming. The tulips are poking through and that's always a good example. However, the biggest sign that spring is coming is BASEBALL started! The Twins have new turf and it makes the field look really strange. It's probably going to take them some getting used to playing on it with the ball coming off the grass a bit slower now. They didn't get much chance to practice, because it just was completed last Thursday. Talk about cutting it close!
Work is fine. Things have quieted down some what. People are starting to get to know their way around and finding supplies easier. Still occasional freak outs, but we're slowly getting people to be self-sufficient. It's not the most exciting job, but it is a job I can do and do well.
TJ (the dog) came to visit with Mom & Barry on Sunday. He made himself at home on our new bed and layed down for a nap! When we got to the new place he ran around and explored while smelling everything. Dog approved! We also met our neighbors across the street who have a Brittany that looks a lot like Taffy. Of course I headed right over and said, "Can I pet your dog?" Similar behavior like Taffy when she was young-go crazy when someone new comes over. Very soft dog and made me miss Taffy as always. It makes wanting to get a dog even more important.
Easter-don't think we'll be making it down, maybe to Rochester for Sunday, but that is all. Depends on how things go in the moving area. We're trying to get settled by the 19th, so there is much to do.
Thanks to my parents coming up on Sunday, we were able to make 2 trips with 3 vehicles. All that is really left is the furniture, our clothes, and what's left of the kitchen. On Friday, I'm going to try to paint with my mom. Mike is going to fill some nail holes tomorrow and get things ready. On Mondy night I washed clothes down there and started unpacking the kitchen. The challenge is now finding where to put everything. You never realize how much crap you own until you start to move!
It does feel like our home now and we are looking forward to being there permanently.
On Saturday my friend Jill & I drove to Rochester to go to the wedding shower of our college friend Erika. Some newer shower games that were better then the traditional ones. Great food, and she was happy that we had come. I guess that's what it really is all about. Still haven't met her husband to be yet!
The weather has been "delightful" the last few days with temps reaching 60's-70's. It's supposed to snow again soon, but I guess we can be happy that spring is really coming. The tulips are poking through and that's always a good example. However, the biggest sign that spring is coming is BASEBALL started! The Twins have new turf and it makes the field look really strange. It's probably going to take them some getting used to playing on it with the ball coming off the grass a bit slower now. They didn't get much chance to practice, because it just was completed last Thursday. Talk about cutting it close!
Work is fine. Things have quieted down some what. People are starting to get to know their way around and finding supplies easier. Still occasional freak outs, but we're slowly getting people to be self-sufficient. It's not the most exciting job, but it is a job I can do and do well.
TJ (the dog) came to visit with Mom & Barry on Sunday. He made himself at home on our new bed and layed down for a nap! When we got to the new place he ran around and explored while smelling everything. Dog approved! We also met our neighbors across the street who have a Brittany that looks a lot like Taffy. Of course I headed right over and said, "Can I pet your dog?" Similar behavior like Taffy when she was young-go crazy when someone new comes over. Very soft dog and made me miss Taffy as always. It makes wanting to get a dog even more important.
Easter-don't think we'll be making it down, maybe to Rochester for Sunday, but that is all. Depends on how things go in the moving area. We're trying to get settled by the 19th, so there is much to do.
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
Need sleepy.
We are homeowners as of Monday. But it doesn't feel like it yet!
Work has survived the move to the new office. Now, it's just hand holding until they all stop freaking out that they can't remember how to wipe their butt or something. I'm just really overtired! but it went better then expected. In honor of my big accomplishment, I received a cake in the shape of little moving boxes with labels on them. I swear, I dreamt the other night that I was labeling my boxes at home like I was at work. Then, in the dream I labeled Mike.
New address will be sent out shortly via email and snail mail to others. Thanks to all for their encouraging words and helpful advice.
The scary part (besides signing your name 30 times) is looking at the date you would pay the mortgage off. YIKES!
We are homeowners as of Monday. But it doesn't feel like it yet!
Work has survived the move to the new office. Now, it's just hand holding until they all stop freaking out that they can't remember how to wipe their butt or something. I'm just really overtired! but it went better then expected. In honor of my big accomplishment, I received a cake in the shape of little moving boxes with labels on them. I swear, I dreamt the other night that I was labeling my boxes at home like I was at work. Then, in the dream I labeled Mike.
New address will be sent out shortly via email and snail mail to others. Thanks to all for their encouraging words and helpful advice.
The scary part (besides signing your name 30 times) is looking at the date you would pay the mortgage off. YIKES!
Thursday, March 25, 2004
Haven't been posting because my life is nothing but a gigantic box to move things in.
Seriously.
Between work and home, pretty much all I've done is pack! Thankfully, our move to the new office location in Bloomington will be completed on Saturday. There are just a few items that need to be packed up tomorrow morning, and we'll be set to go. I'm surprised I haven't started dreaming about labeling my underwear. All I can see when I close my eyes are the little yellow labels with our office numbers on them!
Sunday we do a final walk through on the townhome. Monday, at 3:30pm, we will hopefully become home owners. There has been much to battle with recently, as the seller is a bit of a jerk. Hopefully we are getting all items out of the way now, and not on the day of closing. Pat was right when he said to expect the unexpected. We have expected this and received it. Last night we came very close to backing out, but were able to play some hard ball and get the answers we wanted. Real Estate sucks. (Sorry!)
We brought home our new mattress on Monday. Last night was the first night that I actually slept well on it. It's very comfortable, my body just was struggling to get used to it. Mike slept like a baby the first night. We are thrilled to finally have a new bed after sleeping on a $15 mattress, purchased from a friend, who bought it from a hotel sale. :)
Life will be be quieter (hopefully) after this weekend. Then we start painting! It's exciting though.
Since Dad has been whining about his NASCAR team, I will boast about mine. I rock. Last weekend was the first time I haven't won for a loooong time. Thank god for Matt Kenseth.
Seriously.
Between work and home, pretty much all I've done is pack! Thankfully, our move to the new office location in Bloomington will be completed on Saturday. There are just a few items that need to be packed up tomorrow morning, and we'll be set to go. I'm surprised I haven't started dreaming about labeling my underwear. All I can see when I close my eyes are the little yellow labels with our office numbers on them!
Sunday we do a final walk through on the townhome. Monday, at 3:30pm, we will hopefully become home owners. There has been much to battle with recently, as the seller is a bit of a jerk. Hopefully we are getting all items out of the way now, and not on the day of closing. Pat was right when he said to expect the unexpected. We have expected this and received it. Last night we came very close to backing out, but were able to play some hard ball and get the answers we wanted. Real Estate sucks. (Sorry!)
We brought home our new mattress on Monday. Last night was the first night that I actually slept well on it. It's very comfortable, my body just was struggling to get used to it. Mike slept like a baby the first night. We are thrilled to finally have a new bed after sleeping on a $15 mattress, purchased from a friend, who bought it from a hotel sale. :)
Life will be be quieter (hopefully) after this weekend. Then we start painting! It's exciting though.
Since Dad has been whining about his NASCAR team, I will boast about mine. I rock. Last weekend was the first time I haven't won for a loooong time. Thank god for Matt Kenseth.
Sunday, March 14, 2004
I'm finishing up a nice weekend of doing very little. It was nice.
Did the taxes on Thursday night, so that is now off my mind. I'm currently printing out all the paperwork as the IRS has 'accepted' it all. Turbo Tax is a god send. I love it. I would say that this is probably the last year that I will be doing it myself, since next year we'll have the house, etc. We'll see-it might be good for me to learn more.
Friday night we just hung out with each other. I napped when I got home from work, as things had been crazy. Our office is moving to Bloomington in just two weeks, so the insanity has started. The phone systems is still being a pain in the ass and no one seems to know how to fix it. The fax machine broke, the copier went a little crazy and the shredder jammed. Is it Murphy's law that it all has to happen on Friday at one time? Plus, these people have a ridiculous problem of having to meet on every little itty bitty thing. We had to form a 'move committee' that has been pretty ridiculous so far. Then, a decorating committee and an Open House committee. Can we say dorks? I like these people but....I guess I don't know what these people are!
Saturday my friend Jeannette and I went to our friend Terri's wedding shower in Maple Grove. We all worked together at TM and have remained pretty close. What is it about showers and woman? I'm learning that I don't enjoy them all that much. The dumb games are soooooo cliche! Plus, when you're just friends instead of family, you end up not knowing most of the people and sit there like dumb asses. Finally Jeannette looks at me and says, "Do you wanna go?" YES!! It's more of a courtesy thing and plus, you like your friend. I've got another one to go to in April. HELP!
So, when I got home I slept again for another 2 hours. Since I'm recovering from a cold, I can't seem to get enough sleep. Then, Mike & I decided to go to Slumberland to start checking out couches and mattresses. We have no idea what we want or like, so figured this was the time to try stuff out. The place was dead, so they left us alone. We didn't really come to any final answer, but we did find the table we want for the kitchen. After this, we headed to Target and Kohls. I was very disappointed in Kohls. I now realize why I don't shop there very often. I wanted to buy this cool Happy Days bathroom set for the new place. It's a 50's style them with all kinds of cool rugs and accessories. However, the cost put a halt to the decision. Either I'm cheap (which is probably the right answer) or it was overpriced, either way I walked out extremely pissed. $16.00 for a border that won't even cover the bathroom, $20 for a towel, $13 for a soap dish in the shape of record, it went on and on. Individually, it was fine. But when you put it all together? Can't afford it. So, then I went into the mode of 'we can't afford anything because we'll be moving and there will be all this other stuff we need and maybe I shouldn't even paint because paint can be expensive and we need to buy a couch and blah blah blah". Basically, I just was ornery. I guess I'll just figure out a cheaper way of doing things.
We watched SNL with Ben Affleck, which was really funny. It seems like that show is only good when they get the right host. During commercials we watched Friday After Next with Ice Cube. This third installment of the Friday movies has become something of a cult favorite with us. It's dumb, but SO funny. My favorite line: "You like that your son's a fag now?" and "Hey Big Momma. It's me. Craig. Your favorite grand-son. The smart one, not DaDa."
Today I watched Turner and Hootch on TBS. I forgot what a cute movie that was. I miss Tom Hanks doing comedies. Then, I started packing up all the little knick knack crap that I have. I spent most of the day doing that, including cleaning out the storage closet and labeling all the boxes in there. Can you tell I want to get out of here soon?
Then, back to work tomorrow. I'll keep my fingers crossed that the voice mail system on the phone works. Otherwise, hell to pay if people can't get their messages!!!!!!!!
Did the taxes on Thursday night, so that is now off my mind. I'm currently printing out all the paperwork as the IRS has 'accepted' it all. Turbo Tax is a god send. I love it. I would say that this is probably the last year that I will be doing it myself, since next year we'll have the house, etc. We'll see-it might be good for me to learn more.
Friday night we just hung out with each other. I napped when I got home from work, as things had been crazy. Our office is moving to Bloomington in just two weeks, so the insanity has started. The phone systems is still being a pain in the ass and no one seems to know how to fix it. The fax machine broke, the copier went a little crazy and the shredder jammed. Is it Murphy's law that it all has to happen on Friday at one time? Plus, these people have a ridiculous problem of having to meet on every little itty bitty thing. We had to form a 'move committee' that has been pretty ridiculous so far. Then, a decorating committee and an Open House committee. Can we say dorks? I like these people but....I guess I don't know what these people are!
Saturday my friend Jeannette and I went to our friend Terri's wedding shower in Maple Grove. We all worked together at TM and have remained pretty close. What is it about showers and woman? I'm learning that I don't enjoy them all that much. The dumb games are soooooo cliche! Plus, when you're just friends instead of family, you end up not knowing most of the people and sit there like dumb asses. Finally Jeannette looks at me and says, "Do you wanna go?" YES!! It's more of a courtesy thing and plus, you like your friend. I've got another one to go to in April. HELP!
So, when I got home I slept again for another 2 hours. Since I'm recovering from a cold, I can't seem to get enough sleep. Then, Mike & I decided to go to Slumberland to start checking out couches and mattresses. We have no idea what we want or like, so figured this was the time to try stuff out. The place was dead, so they left us alone. We didn't really come to any final answer, but we did find the table we want for the kitchen. After this, we headed to Target and Kohls. I was very disappointed in Kohls. I now realize why I don't shop there very often. I wanted to buy this cool Happy Days bathroom set for the new place. It's a 50's style them with all kinds of cool rugs and accessories. However, the cost put a halt to the decision. Either I'm cheap (which is probably the right answer) or it was overpriced, either way I walked out extremely pissed. $16.00 for a border that won't even cover the bathroom, $20 for a towel, $13 for a soap dish in the shape of record, it went on and on. Individually, it was fine. But when you put it all together? Can't afford it. So, then I went into the mode of 'we can't afford anything because we'll be moving and there will be all this other stuff we need and maybe I shouldn't even paint because paint can be expensive and we need to buy a couch and blah blah blah". Basically, I just was ornery. I guess I'll just figure out a cheaper way of doing things.
We watched SNL with Ben Affleck, which was really funny. It seems like that show is only good when they get the right host. During commercials we watched Friday After Next with Ice Cube. This third installment of the Friday movies has become something of a cult favorite with us. It's dumb, but SO funny. My favorite line: "You like that your son's a fag now?" and "Hey Big Momma. It's me. Craig. Your favorite grand-son. The smart one, not DaDa."
Today I watched Turner and Hootch on TBS. I forgot what a cute movie that was. I miss Tom Hanks doing comedies. Then, I started packing up all the little knick knack crap that I have. I spent most of the day doing that, including cleaning out the storage closet and labeling all the boxes in there. Can you tell I want to get out of here soon?
Then, back to work tomorrow. I'll keep my fingers crossed that the voice mail system on the phone works. Otherwise, hell to pay if people can't get their messages!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Another quick update...
We bought a town home last week! As my friend Jeannette said to me tonight: "Wow. You guys are grown-ups now!" She's 24.
It's located in Cottage Grove, and we close on March 29. Fast. But, I guess when it works, you gotta jump on it. 2 bedrooms, a loft, 1 1/2 bath, deck, garage, yard. All the things we wanted and more. We're very excited. And the cool part is that the street we live on is Hamlet Lane. Get it? Shakespeare? Our Cousin? It's like it was meant to be. And, we knew it was right when we drove the road and saw just 5 minutes away the following: Target, Menards, Cub Foods, Blockbuster and TCF Bank. What more could you ask for?
To make things just a little more insane, my office is moving to a new location on March 27. Our first day in the new office is March 29. The day we close. And I'm coordinating the whole move because I'm the office manager. Whoo Hoo! (Work is still going pretty good)
We had a nice birthday party for Mikey on Saturday, which was his 28th bday. Dave, Charlie, Sara and Tyler drove up to spend the night, in addition to Gabe, Shanda and kids, and Matt, Jill and Sam. Quite the houseful! We had a lot of fun, laughed, ate tacos and cake. Stayed up late, slept late, it was just right.
That's all for now. Time for Newlywood with Nick and Jessica! That's my guilty pleasure.
Oh, one more note: we can have a dog at the new place. Let's just say we can't wait. Dog names anyone?
We bought a town home last week! As my friend Jeannette said to me tonight: "Wow. You guys are grown-ups now!" She's 24.
It's located in Cottage Grove, and we close on March 29. Fast. But, I guess when it works, you gotta jump on it. 2 bedrooms, a loft, 1 1/2 bath, deck, garage, yard. All the things we wanted and more. We're very excited. And the cool part is that the street we live on is Hamlet Lane. Get it? Shakespeare? Our Cousin? It's like it was meant to be. And, we knew it was right when we drove the road and saw just 5 minutes away the following: Target, Menards, Cub Foods, Blockbuster and TCF Bank. What more could you ask for?
To make things just a little more insane, my office is moving to a new location on March 27. Our first day in the new office is March 29. The day we close. And I'm coordinating the whole move because I'm the office manager. Whoo Hoo! (Work is still going pretty good)
We had a nice birthday party for Mikey on Saturday, which was his 28th bday. Dave, Charlie, Sara and Tyler drove up to spend the night, in addition to Gabe, Shanda and kids, and Matt, Jill and Sam. Quite the houseful! We had a lot of fun, laughed, ate tacos and cake. Stayed up late, slept late, it was just right.
That's all for now. Time for Newlywood with Nick and Jessica! That's my guilty pleasure.
Oh, one more note: we can have a dog at the new place. Let's just say we can't wait. Dog names anyone?
Monday, March 01, 2004
I just realized that it has been WAY too long since I last posted. My apologies.
Brief update and I promise to post more later...
Today is my 29th birthday. Mellow day. Celebrated with the family on Saturday night at my folks. 20 people showed up. I didn't know they all liked us that much! Just kidding. Nice time. Nice gifts. (Including my new Elvis clock that is shaped like a 45 record. At each hour it alternates playing Hound Dog and Don't Be Cruel. It is driving Mike nuts. I love it.) I also received Season 2 of Little House on the Prairie. My husband knows what I like!
Tonight, we went to look at a few townhomes as the search of our own place begins. Have a good prospect.
We then went to the Olive Garden. EXCELLENT food. This is one of my top faves.
I received a stirring rendition of Happy Birthday on my answering machine from Pat, Alissa and Paige with memorable 'cha cha cha's' inserted as well.
My new job is going VERY well. I like the people, what I'm doing, and feel very comfortable in the setting. It is somewhat akin to slipping on a pair of old sneakers. Comfy. And I know how to use them. These people also gave me a card, a lovely cake, and sang to me today. They've known me all of 2 weeks tomorrow!
I will post more later this week. Gotta hit the sack.
Brief update and I promise to post more later...
Today is my 29th birthday. Mellow day. Celebrated with the family on Saturday night at my folks. 20 people showed up. I didn't know they all liked us that much! Just kidding. Nice time. Nice gifts. (Including my new Elvis clock that is shaped like a 45 record. At each hour it alternates playing Hound Dog and Don't Be Cruel. It is driving Mike nuts. I love it.) I also received Season 2 of Little House on the Prairie. My husband knows what I like!
Tonight, we went to look at a few townhomes as the search of our own place begins. Have a good prospect.
We then went to the Olive Garden. EXCELLENT food. This is one of my top faves.
I received a stirring rendition of Happy Birthday on my answering machine from Pat, Alissa and Paige with memorable 'cha cha cha's' inserted as well.
My new job is going VERY well. I like the people, what I'm doing, and feel very comfortable in the setting. It is somewhat akin to slipping on a pair of old sneakers. Comfy. And I know how to use them. These people also gave me a card, a lovely cake, and sang to me today. They've known me all of 2 weeks tomorrow!
I will post more later this week. Gotta hit the sack.
Tuesday, February 10, 2004
What a hockey weekend.
Friday afternoon we went to the matinee showing of Miracle. Great movie, well done. Kurt Russell nailed the role, just as predicted. I have to give him a nod for not doing the 'Fargo' accent. I read an interview with him that he said he tried to do the accent the 'right' way. His explanation was that he was from Massachusetts, and he understands how the accent gets overdone.
Saturday we were at the Excel Center by 8:30am. Practice went until 11:30. Took lots of pictures and saw tons of players. Modano, Messier, Jagr, Bertuzzi, Sakic, etc. We also experienced the autograph seekers who will do whatever they can to trample you. Very annoying.
Then, we headed over to the Fantasy thing which was great. We met and chatted with Barry Melrose, saw Ted Lindsey, Gordie Howe and Neal Broten. Saw the Bud Light Falls guys from the commericals, mullets and all. Stood in line for an hour to have our picture taken with the holy grail: the Lord Stanley Cup. Did you know he only paid $50 for it? And as some of you have seen, we had hockey cards made of ourselves. That was a blast.
Overall, people were friendly and excited. Over 100,000 people made their way through there so you can imagine how tired we were at the end of the day. Hockey at its finest, where it should be. The State of Hockey.
This week is my last week off. I've been doing some errands, etc. Spent too much time at Barnes and Noble today. I could have bought out the entire store as usual. I looked at some great books though. I think some day I will have to devote an entire room to becoming my library.
This weekend we head to Duluth for the UMD-Gophers series. Thankfully, we found out that we do not have ajoining rooms with Mike's parents. That happened to us one other time and it was also on Valentines Day. We found out that you should never have adjoining rooms with your parents in a hotel if you can help it. :)
A great CD that I purchased over the weekend is the VH1 Storytellers Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson. 12 songs, mixture of both their tunes, lots of great stuff. I highly recommend it.
Friday afternoon we went to the matinee showing of Miracle. Great movie, well done. Kurt Russell nailed the role, just as predicted. I have to give him a nod for not doing the 'Fargo' accent. I read an interview with him that he said he tried to do the accent the 'right' way. His explanation was that he was from Massachusetts, and he understands how the accent gets overdone.
Saturday we were at the Excel Center by 8:30am. Practice went until 11:30. Took lots of pictures and saw tons of players. Modano, Messier, Jagr, Bertuzzi, Sakic, etc. We also experienced the autograph seekers who will do whatever they can to trample you. Very annoying.
Then, we headed over to the Fantasy thing which was great. We met and chatted with Barry Melrose, saw Ted Lindsey, Gordie Howe and Neal Broten. Saw the Bud Light Falls guys from the commericals, mullets and all. Stood in line for an hour to have our picture taken with the holy grail: the Lord Stanley Cup. Did you know he only paid $50 for it? And as some of you have seen, we had hockey cards made of ourselves. That was a blast.
Overall, people were friendly and excited. Over 100,000 people made their way through there so you can imagine how tired we were at the end of the day. Hockey at its finest, where it should be. The State of Hockey.
This week is my last week off. I've been doing some errands, etc. Spent too much time at Barnes and Noble today. I could have bought out the entire store as usual. I looked at some great books though. I think some day I will have to devote an entire room to becoming my library.
This weekend we head to Duluth for the UMD-Gophers series. Thankfully, we found out that we do not have ajoining rooms with Mike's parents. That happened to us one other time and it was also on Valentines Day. We found out that you should never have adjoining rooms with your parents in a hotel if you can help it. :)
A great CD that I purchased over the weekend is the VH1 Storytellers Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson. 12 songs, mixture of both their tunes, lots of great stuff. I highly recommend it.
Thursday, February 05, 2004
Welcome to Blogger, Dad!
Just got back today from my visit to the "Grove", or Spring Grove, MN. Had a nice visit with aunts. Spent the night, which I wasn't intending to do, but worked out well. I hadn't had the opportunity to chat with either of them much in the last year or so. Yesterday, before I left, Sandra and I took a ride down to Rooster Valley where much of our family farmed for many years. The house they lived in down there is falling in, and the land is owned by some one else. I did some trespassing, and climbed the fence to take a few photos. It was absolutely beautiful down there. No noise, not even birds. Just snow and cold. I had never had a chance to visit the Valley in the winter. I cannot imagine how my grandparents did it in the winter time down there. Charm pointed out that one year it snowed so much that they could only see the very top of the barn in the back where Grandpa didn't shovel it out. That's major!
Woke up with a cold yesterday morning, so made a detour to spend the night at the folks. Played with the dog and took mom to work this morning. Then, did a little shopping for some new work clothes. Yep, I said work clothes. I accepted a new position this morning and I start on Feb. 17. I'm nervous, but I think I made the right decision. Thanks to Mike, Pat, Mom, Dad & Barry for their helpful and encouraging words.
As Mike indicated on his blog, we are going to see Miracle tomorrow. Tonight at the Xcel Center, they unveiled the new Herb Brooks statue. It's the pose of him with his hands in the air as they won that miracle game. What was cool was that his son Dan gave a speech tonight, and he wore plaid pants like his Dad did in those years. Funny. We're really looking forward to our big hockey weekend. (or weekends I should say.)
Congrats to Alissa and Pat for an amazing school project! I would say that Alissa with her art skills may have a career path blooming. Pat, where were you when I needed help on school projects? Just kidding. I never had cool assignments like that one.
Just got back today from my visit to the "Grove", or Spring Grove, MN. Had a nice visit with aunts. Spent the night, which I wasn't intending to do, but worked out well. I hadn't had the opportunity to chat with either of them much in the last year or so. Yesterday, before I left, Sandra and I took a ride down to Rooster Valley where much of our family farmed for many years. The house they lived in down there is falling in, and the land is owned by some one else. I did some trespassing, and climbed the fence to take a few photos. It was absolutely beautiful down there. No noise, not even birds. Just snow and cold. I had never had a chance to visit the Valley in the winter. I cannot imagine how my grandparents did it in the winter time down there. Charm pointed out that one year it snowed so much that they could only see the very top of the barn in the back where Grandpa didn't shovel it out. That's major!
Woke up with a cold yesterday morning, so made a detour to spend the night at the folks. Played with the dog and took mom to work this morning. Then, did a little shopping for some new work clothes. Yep, I said work clothes. I accepted a new position this morning and I start on Feb. 17. I'm nervous, but I think I made the right decision. Thanks to Mike, Pat, Mom, Dad & Barry for their helpful and encouraging words.
As Mike indicated on his blog, we are going to see Miracle tomorrow. Tonight at the Xcel Center, they unveiled the new Herb Brooks statue. It's the pose of him with his hands in the air as they won that miracle game. What was cool was that his son Dan gave a speech tonight, and he wore plaid pants like his Dad did in those years. Funny. We're really looking forward to our big hockey weekend. (or weekends I should say.)
Congrats to Alissa and Pat for an amazing school project! I would say that Alissa with her art skills may have a career path blooming. Pat, where were you when I needed help on school projects? Just kidding. I never had cool assignments like that one.
Monday, February 02, 2004
Sorry for the delay in posting. Much has been going on.
Still working on the job front. As of right now, I should be writing cover letters, but I'm being a little bit of a procrastinator this evening. Oh well.
I had a job interview last Monday that went well. 2 freaking hour with 6 people. Now, if that doesn't get old fast then I don't know what was. I knew one of the 6, worked with her at TM. She said I came across very professionally and answered all the questions. Just not sure if I want to go back to public health as well as doing the job I applied for. We'll see. I have another interview for Friday that is with an organization called Elder Care at home. It's basically working with the elderly and coming in to help them out with stuff: cleaning, groceries, visiting. It's only PT, but I thought I might do it awhile to get some money coming in. Another we'll see.
Last week I drove down to Rochester on Tuesday. I was planning on going south to visit the relies, but the weather wasn't good. Instead, mom took a half day off and we went to the Grandparents. We had a nice day. Grandpa was at a doctors appointment, so we only saw him for a little bit. Otherwise, we hung out with Grandma. I cleaned for them, while Mom and Grandma did some sorting of their extra bedroom. You wouldn't believe the things they save. Grandpa has a brown polyester leisure suit in PRISTINE condition. His response? "that was a darn nice suit. I just outgrew it a bit." Grandma has practically every winter coat she's ever owned, including some really cool vintage ones from the 50's. She also still has her fake fur coat that Grandpa bought for her in the 80's. Hilarious. Grandma seemed to enjoy sorting through stuff. Once you jogged her memory, she seemed to remember more. She still struggles with being dizzy, tired and shaky. I know her Altzheimers place a role, but the meds she is on for it also are a part of the deal. I just wish we could get her a better quality of life. Her comment was sad. "I never thought I'd end up just sitting here staring at the wall. And I never thought my house would need someone else to clean it." Food for thought.
Visted Pam and Charlie one night and had Pam in stiches telling her about the movie Jackass. She will have to rent it. Thursday I went to see Sue at the Crosstich Shop. They are going out of business at the end of this month-it sucks cuz it's a great business. Just too costly of a lease. Otherwise, I just hung out with the dog during the day and visited with my dad on the phone for a few hours too.
I just finished reading The Da Vinci Code this morning. Everyone is reading it, and I knew I had to as well when I read the subject matter. PHENOMENAL book. It's really a page turner and keeps you guessing at every moment. Historical fact mixed in with a mystery. I've got some more research I want to do now. Mary Magdalene the wife of Jesus? Being Catholic, raised a certain way, this stuff is so intriguing. Without getting into things further, I'm very glad I read this book. I highly recommend not only this one but Religion for Dummies as well.
Watched the Super Bowl a bit. Nothing major. Saw Janet lose her top. So stupid that the FCC has got to get involved. Whatever. Made for interesting show. Great game as well.
Friday night we went over to Matt and Jill's. Sam is now 3 months old and growing like a weed. He's smiling now and making lots of cooing noises. Watched him get a bath which he just loved. Matt's parents were driving up from Oshkosh and we wanted to visit with them. Great people-super nice. They arrived around 11pm and see we chatted with them until 1am. Poor Jill had been up with Sam the night before so she looked like she was going to drop. Thankfully, Grandma McMillen said she'd get up with Sam in the night. Jill has decided to be a stay at home mom for now. They're only young once, and if you can do it, I say go for it. I advocate both-just depends on the person. I have no idea how I will be when the time comes.
Leaving for Spring Grove in the morning to visit my 2 aunties down there. I haven't been down since August, so I thought as long as I have the time, I should go. They feel a little abandoned since Grandma died and no one is making as many visits. Then I think I'll try to visit a friend or two in Rochester. Make my rounds and be back by Thursday night I think. Mom is working the crappy late shift until 7pm, so she won't be around much.
Survivor last night anyone? I haven't watched it since Australian Outback, but it was fun to see the all stars come back. Gotta love Rudy and Rupert.
Still working on the job front. As of right now, I should be writing cover letters, but I'm being a little bit of a procrastinator this evening. Oh well.
I had a job interview last Monday that went well. 2 freaking hour with 6 people. Now, if that doesn't get old fast then I don't know what was. I knew one of the 6, worked with her at TM. She said I came across very professionally and answered all the questions. Just not sure if I want to go back to public health as well as doing the job I applied for. We'll see. I have another interview for Friday that is with an organization called Elder Care at home. It's basically working with the elderly and coming in to help them out with stuff: cleaning, groceries, visiting. It's only PT, but I thought I might do it awhile to get some money coming in. Another we'll see.
Last week I drove down to Rochester on Tuesday. I was planning on going south to visit the relies, but the weather wasn't good. Instead, mom took a half day off and we went to the Grandparents. We had a nice day. Grandpa was at a doctors appointment, so we only saw him for a little bit. Otherwise, we hung out with Grandma. I cleaned for them, while Mom and Grandma did some sorting of their extra bedroom. You wouldn't believe the things they save. Grandpa has a brown polyester leisure suit in PRISTINE condition. His response? "that was a darn nice suit. I just outgrew it a bit." Grandma has practically every winter coat she's ever owned, including some really cool vintage ones from the 50's. She also still has her fake fur coat that Grandpa bought for her in the 80's. Hilarious. Grandma seemed to enjoy sorting through stuff. Once you jogged her memory, she seemed to remember more. She still struggles with being dizzy, tired and shaky. I know her Altzheimers place a role, but the meds she is on for it also are a part of the deal. I just wish we could get her a better quality of life. Her comment was sad. "I never thought I'd end up just sitting here staring at the wall. And I never thought my house would need someone else to clean it." Food for thought.
Visted Pam and Charlie one night and had Pam in stiches telling her about the movie Jackass. She will have to rent it. Thursday I went to see Sue at the Crosstich Shop. They are going out of business at the end of this month-it sucks cuz it's a great business. Just too costly of a lease. Otherwise, I just hung out with the dog during the day and visited with my dad on the phone for a few hours too.
I just finished reading The Da Vinci Code this morning. Everyone is reading it, and I knew I had to as well when I read the subject matter. PHENOMENAL book. It's really a page turner and keeps you guessing at every moment. Historical fact mixed in with a mystery. I've got some more research I want to do now. Mary Magdalene the wife of Jesus? Being Catholic, raised a certain way, this stuff is so intriguing. Without getting into things further, I'm very glad I read this book. I highly recommend not only this one but Religion for Dummies as well.
Watched the Super Bowl a bit. Nothing major. Saw Janet lose her top. So stupid that the FCC has got to get involved. Whatever. Made for interesting show. Great game as well.
Friday night we went over to Matt and Jill's. Sam is now 3 months old and growing like a weed. He's smiling now and making lots of cooing noises. Watched him get a bath which he just loved. Matt's parents were driving up from Oshkosh and we wanted to visit with them. Great people-super nice. They arrived around 11pm and see we chatted with them until 1am. Poor Jill had been up with Sam the night before so she looked like she was going to drop. Thankfully, Grandma McMillen said she'd get up with Sam in the night. Jill has decided to be a stay at home mom for now. They're only young once, and if you can do it, I say go for it. I advocate both-just depends on the person. I have no idea how I will be when the time comes.
Leaving for Spring Grove in the morning to visit my 2 aunties down there. I haven't been down since August, so I thought as long as I have the time, I should go. They feel a little abandoned since Grandma died and no one is making as many visits. Then I think I'll try to visit a friend or two in Rochester. Make my rounds and be back by Thursday night I think. Mom is working the crappy late shift until 7pm, so she won't be around much.
Survivor last night anyone? I haven't watched it since Australian Outback, but it was fun to see the all stars come back. Gotta love Rudy and Rupert.
Wednesday, January 14, 2004
Okay, so I'm now unemployed.
Glorious? Well, not really. Not yet anyway. I've caught up on sleep, reading, knitting, and I am now in the process of completing bulldozing our den and throwing everything I haven't looked at in the last year in the garbage. I went through an entire box of cassette tapes last night. What do you do with old tapes? I realized that most of the ones I really liked I've bought on CD. I threw out a ton, but saved about a box of them. Some I just want to save. A good example: On Christmas Eve we had to explain to my younger cousins (Hannah, Grace and Tyler) what LP's and 45's were. They had no clue. They Grace says, "Oh, I think I've maybe seen one."
I own more books then a small town library. This is not a bad thing. It just makes storage a problem. I swear that when I have my own home, I am making a library out of one room.
We also bought a DVD Storage Unit. We already own, like, 100 Videos. DVD's are creeping into the 30's and 40's. Mike had the lovely task of putting the thing together, a cheap sauder deal from Office Max. Let's just say it was a lot harder then it looked. But, it has a place in the living room now and looks pretty good. I also purchased a few more Rubbermaid Tubs and a truly ugly, but cool pair of shoes. Mike says they look like bowling shoes, and if you've seen the ones that are making the current fashion go round, you'll know what he's talking about. I swore I wouldn't buy a pair, but they were $5 at Target and they did look cool. As my niece Alissa would say, "Aunt Kristin, you're almost cool." Hey, it's better then not being cool at all.
I am reading Hearts of Atlantis by Stephen King this week. It's different, and I'm still not quite sure how it will all come together (short stories) but it's interesting. I'm dying to read The DaVinci Code, but I have to see if I can get Barry to loan it up before he reads it himself.
I also discovered by favorite Dr. Seuss book tucked away in a tub. It's called: A Fish Out of Water. And yes Pat, I wrote in it and one it with my name. It was a sickness, I say. But this one does not have any pages ripped out of it. I must have reserved that feature just for your books. Nonetheless, this is an excellent book about teaching children how much food you should give to your gold fish.
Friday is the funeral of my Uncle's Charlie's mother. She passed away last Friday. The funeral is at noon, so I'll be taxing over my mom, aunt Linda, and Uncle Dave. I feel bad for Charlie-he's had a tough few years of losing his loved ones.
Last, I am now a fan of Napster again. I did my first paying download of $.99 and bought the single "Hey Ya" by Outkast. I can handle this price and it goes right on my hard drive and I can do whatever the hell I want with it. The Napster Card is now finally in effect. I looked long and hard for it before Christmas after reading the Newsweek article about it (15 songs for $15 on a card) but they did not introduce it until this month. I think I'll buy it. Anyone have any words on portable MP3 players? I have yet to check one out anywhere and I'm wicked curious to know if they're cool. (I'm a little behind the times in this area).
Pat- how's Project X?
Glorious? Well, not really. Not yet anyway. I've caught up on sleep, reading, knitting, and I am now in the process of completing bulldozing our den and throwing everything I haven't looked at in the last year in the garbage. I went through an entire box of cassette tapes last night. What do you do with old tapes? I realized that most of the ones I really liked I've bought on CD. I threw out a ton, but saved about a box of them. Some I just want to save. A good example: On Christmas Eve we had to explain to my younger cousins (Hannah, Grace and Tyler) what LP's and 45's were. They had no clue. They Grace says, "Oh, I think I've maybe seen one."
I own more books then a small town library. This is not a bad thing. It just makes storage a problem. I swear that when I have my own home, I am making a library out of one room.
We also bought a DVD Storage Unit. We already own, like, 100 Videos. DVD's are creeping into the 30's and 40's. Mike had the lovely task of putting the thing together, a cheap sauder deal from Office Max. Let's just say it was a lot harder then it looked. But, it has a place in the living room now and looks pretty good. I also purchased a few more Rubbermaid Tubs and a truly ugly, but cool pair of shoes. Mike says they look like bowling shoes, and if you've seen the ones that are making the current fashion go round, you'll know what he's talking about. I swore I wouldn't buy a pair, but they were $5 at Target and they did look cool. As my niece Alissa would say, "Aunt Kristin, you're almost cool." Hey, it's better then not being cool at all.
I am reading Hearts of Atlantis by Stephen King this week. It's different, and I'm still not quite sure how it will all come together (short stories) but it's interesting. I'm dying to read The DaVinci Code, but I have to see if I can get Barry to loan it up before he reads it himself.
I also discovered by favorite Dr. Seuss book tucked away in a tub. It's called: A Fish Out of Water. And yes Pat, I wrote in it and one it with my name. It was a sickness, I say. But this one does not have any pages ripped out of it. I must have reserved that feature just for your books. Nonetheless, this is an excellent book about teaching children how much food you should give to your gold fish.
Friday is the funeral of my Uncle's Charlie's mother. She passed away last Friday. The funeral is at noon, so I'll be taxing over my mom, aunt Linda, and Uncle Dave. I feel bad for Charlie-he's had a tough few years of losing his loved ones.
Last, I am now a fan of Napster again. I did my first paying download of $.99 and bought the single "Hey Ya" by Outkast. I can handle this price and it goes right on my hard drive and I can do whatever the hell I want with it. The Napster Card is now finally in effect. I looked long and hard for it before Christmas after reading the Newsweek article about it (15 songs for $15 on a card) but they did not introduce it until this month. I think I'll buy it. Anyone have any words on portable MP3 players? I have yet to check one out anywhere and I'm wicked curious to know if they're cool. (I'm a little behind the times in this area).
Pat- how's Project X?
Monday, January 05, 2004
Belated Happy Holidays to all and I hope they were enjoyed.
A couple of my highlights were : Season 1 of Little House on the Prairie on DVD. (I have wanted something like this for so long, I just couldn't believe it. My husband rocks. And by the way, I'm a nut for that show. I've seen every episode at least twice. I cried when Michael Landon died.)
Also received on DVD: It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, The Poseidon Adventure, and Say Anything.
Books: many. Cash by Johnny Cash (just finished it-very good), An Elvis Scrapbook, a book on writing, another on Archiving and Saving old photographs, plus some others I'm blanking on.
Picture of Johnny Cash, in his younger days, flipping off the camera. Dad found it on the internet for me.
A new game called Tri-Bond. We have not played it yet, but it lists three things that sound unrelatable, and then you have to figure out what they have in common. Easy Example: Polar, Black, Grizzly= bears
Many cool Elvis things. And some nifty Coca-Cola items, including an antique crate that the bottles would be stored in.
And, our new digital camera that we purchased just a few days before Christmas was a blast in itself. Took a ton of pictures. Hopefully I'll have a website up soon to upload some of them to.
New Year's Eve was quiet. We went to our friend's Gabe and Shanda's, however their 4 year old Tyler suddenly felt horrible, his ear hurt, so Shanda and I trucked him to the ER at 9pm. Ear infection, so it was 11pm before we got back. Watched the ball drop and went home.
I'm still at the job. Tomorrow is supposed to be the last day. They are playing games. I just want out.
We watched Bruce Almighty on Friday night. Okay movie. Not great, but there were some memorable moments. It did drag on at times. One movie we are watching frequently on the movie channel is Two Weeks Notice with Sandra Bullock and Hugh Grant. Hilarious. Two of my favorite actors these days.
Might I point out the movie Serendipity? It came out a year or so ago with Kate Beckinsale and Joh Cusack (of course Jeremy Piven has a role). It's a darn fine John Cusack at his best movie.
A couple of my highlights were : Season 1 of Little House on the Prairie on DVD. (I have wanted something like this for so long, I just couldn't believe it. My husband rocks. And by the way, I'm a nut for that show. I've seen every episode at least twice. I cried when Michael Landon died.)
Also received on DVD: It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, The Poseidon Adventure, and Say Anything.
Books: many. Cash by Johnny Cash (just finished it-very good), An Elvis Scrapbook, a book on writing, another on Archiving and Saving old photographs, plus some others I'm blanking on.
Picture of Johnny Cash, in his younger days, flipping off the camera. Dad found it on the internet for me.
A new game called Tri-Bond. We have not played it yet, but it lists three things that sound unrelatable, and then you have to figure out what they have in common. Easy Example: Polar, Black, Grizzly= bears
Many cool Elvis things. And some nifty Coca-Cola items, including an antique crate that the bottles would be stored in.
And, our new digital camera that we purchased just a few days before Christmas was a blast in itself. Took a ton of pictures. Hopefully I'll have a website up soon to upload some of them to.
New Year's Eve was quiet. We went to our friend's Gabe and Shanda's, however their 4 year old Tyler suddenly felt horrible, his ear hurt, so Shanda and I trucked him to the ER at 9pm. Ear infection, so it was 11pm before we got back. Watched the ball drop and went home.
I'm still at the job. Tomorrow is supposed to be the last day. They are playing games. I just want out.
We watched Bruce Almighty on Friday night. Okay movie. Not great, but there were some memorable moments. It did drag on at times. One movie we are watching frequently on the movie channel is Two Weeks Notice with Sandra Bullock and Hugh Grant. Hilarious. Two of my favorite actors these days.
Might I point out the movie Serendipity? It came out a year or so ago with Kate Beckinsale and Joh Cusack (of course Jeremy Piven has a role). It's a darn fine John Cusack at his best movie.
Sunday, December 21, 2003
Spent the weekend up north celebrating the Lemke Christmas. Lots of Fun.
Nephew Alex was the winner, hands down, for the total amount of presents. Only grandchild. You can imagine. He kept saying stuff like, "OHHHHH!" He didn't rip into the presents, but enjoyed looking through them. The clothes he received were just thrown aside.
Clothes are no fun when you are almost 2!
I received a wicked cool pair of Sorel Boots. I have the worlds poorest circulation in my feet and can spent a short period of time outside before my feet feel like I'm going to lose them. My father-in-law has said since day one that I needed a good pair of boots for snowmobiling. (Or 'bile' as Alex calls it!) These are good to -40 below. Comfortable and warm. I'm set!
Mike received the Lord of the Rings and Two Towers DVD sets. He did go see the latest edition in the theaters last week and said it was very good. I'm not into the trilogy so I haven't asked a lot of questions. He is currently watching the extras on the DVD's. I think they each came with like 4-5 DVD's a piece. Holy Crap.
The highlight of today is that we finally bought a digital camera! A Fuji Fine Pix A210. I like it so far. Mike is threatening to take inappropriate pictures. 'Nuff said. Can we say DELETE?
The rest of my week at work has been yucky. However, the boss now makes it a point to say good morning and good night to me each day since I gave notice. He never bothered to do that much before! It's a very long and tiring story. I hope that I can find a job I like. I'm so tired of this.
I'm starting to feel like a little kid again. Only 3 more days until Christmas Eve!
Just remember: "No man is a failure that has friends." But what Pat and I are wondering is whether or not Mr. Potter ever gives the money back! And Pat is really wondering why the hell Uncle Billy doesn't fess up and take responsiblity for his actions!!! Face it, Mr. Potter should have had the shit kicked out of him by Mr. Martini or something. Don't you think? Or maybe Harry Bailey since he was the big war hero!
Alternate endings anyone?
Nephew Alex was the winner, hands down, for the total amount of presents. Only grandchild. You can imagine. He kept saying stuff like, "OHHHHH!" He didn't rip into the presents, but enjoyed looking through them. The clothes he received were just thrown aside.
Clothes are no fun when you are almost 2!
I received a wicked cool pair of Sorel Boots. I have the worlds poorest circulation in my feet and can spent a short period of time outside before my feet feel like I'm going to lose them. My father-in-law has said since day one that I needed a good pair of boots for snowmobiling. (Or 'bile' as Alex calls it!) These are good to -40 below. Comfortable and warm. I'm set!
Mike received the Lord of the Rings and Two Towers DVD sets. He did go see the latest edition in the theaters last week and said it was very good. I'm not into the trilogy so I haven't asked a lot of questions. He is currently watching the extras on the DVD's. I think they each came with like 4-5 DVD's a piece. Holy Crap.
The highlight of today is that we finally bought a digital camera! A Fuji Fine Pix A210. I like it so far. Mike is threatening to take inappropriate pictures. 'Nuff said. Can we say DELETE?
The rest of my week at work has been yucky. However, the boss now makes it a point to say good morning and good night to me each day since I gave notice. He never bothered to do that much before! It's a very long and tiring story. I hope that I can find a job I like. I'm so tired of this.
I'm starting to feel like a little kid again. Only 3 more days until Christmas Eve!
Just remember: "No man is a failure that has friends." But what Pat and I are wondering is whether or not Mr. Potter ever gives the money back! And Pat is really wondering why the hell Uncle Billy doesn't fess up and take responsiblity for his actions!!! Face it, Mr. Potter should have had the shit kicked out of him by Mr. Martini or something. Don't you think? Or maybe Harry Bailey since he was the big war hero!
Alternate endings anyone?
Thursday, December 18, 2003
Friday, December 05, 2003
Sorry about the lack of posting. Holidays are upon us.
We had nice Thanksgiving. Mike went to his parents, I went to mine. I had dinner with mom's family at Pam & Charlies. Poor Charlie had to work his last night shift at the hospital and didn't get home until 8am. Tyler woke him at 1pm just as we sat down to eat. He was happy that he no longer has to work those shifts anymore!
Great food, good turkey. I made the Pumpkin Pie the night before with my brother giving me crap on the phone through my mother. I have now officially ranked #2 in the family for the best Pumpkin Pie. Grandma is still #1. Sure wish I knew what she had done to make hers so good!
After hanging out there for awhile, I ran over to my dad's side of the family to visit with them. Unfortunately, I missed my grandparents by just an hour. It's difficult for them to be away from home at any great length. I ended up hanging out at Uncle Mike's house until 10pm ! I had not visited with many of my cousins and my aunt and uncle in almost a year. My aunt Sue also taught me how to knit! Uncle Tom kept asking WHY I wanted to learn this-Uncle Mike asked why I didn't just go buy a scarf. :) I think it's a valuable tool to know and I'm excited to keep going. It's a bit funky looking, but it's actually quite relaxing.
Friday I hung out with my mom most of the day. We didn't really do much-just took it easy. Then I went out to my dad's in the afternoon and visited with him for quite awhile. Later that night I did some late night shopping with my cousin Sara and we were both able to take care of a lot of our Christmas shopping. It was awesome being there so late!
Saturday I hung out at home again, and knitted. Matt and Tiffiny came down to celebrate Mom and Barry's birthdays. We went to Timber Lodge. Good food, nice time. Hopefully Mom and Barry enjoyed being treated to a dinner and gifts. It sure seemed like they liked it! It's cool to finally be able to afford paying for a meal after all these years of your parents taking you out. It was a pleasure to split the bill with Matt.
Work is a bit insane this week. Just gets busier and weirder by the minute. I was sick on Tuesday, but felt so guilty that I came in later in the afternoon. I'm thinking my flu shot did the trick at keeping things at bay. I've just felt a little bit yucky for a few days, but able to get pushing through. I sincerely hope that I did the right thing by getting it. First time-but after how sick I was at this time last year, I can't afford to go through that again.
Still looking on the job front. Have a headhunter. Getting a decent start anyway.
This weekend is nothing major. The tree is up, so I'm going to wrap Christmas presents and get that taken care of. Mike is going to a Christmas party in Duluth at his buddies' house. I usually go, but just not in the mood this year. I'm sure he'll have more fun without worrying about me and if I have people to talk to!
Two new shows we are liking: The Tracy Morgan Show (so far...) and Viva La Bam on MTV. Last night's episodes of Scrubs and Will & Grace were to die for funny. I haven't laughed like that for a long time.
We had nice Thanksgiving. Mike went to his parents, I went to mine. I had dinner with mom's family at Pam & Charlies. Poor Charlie had to work his last night shift at the hospital and didn't get home until 8am. Tyler woke him at 1pm just as we sat down to eat. He was happy that he no longer has to work those shifts anymore!
Great food, good turkey. I made the Pumpkin Pie the night before with my brother giving me crap on the phone through my mother. I have now officially ranked #2 in the family for the best Pumpkin Pie. Grandma is still #1. Sure wish I knew what she had done to make hers so good!
After hanging out there for awhile, I ran over to my dad's side of the family to visit with them. Unfortunately, I missed my grandparents by just an hour. It's difficult for them to be away from home at any great length. I ended up hanging out at Uncle Mike's house until 10pm ! I had not visited with many of my cousins and my aunt and uncle in almost a year. My aunt Sue also taught me how to knit! Uncle Tom kept asking WHY I wanted to learn this-Uncle Mike asked why I didn't just go buy a scarf. :) I think it's a valuable tool to know and I'm excited to keep going. It's a bit funky looking, but it's actually quite relaxing.
Friday I hung out with my mom most of the day. We didn't really do much-just took it easy. Then I went out to my dad's in the afternoon and visited with him for quite awhile. Later that night I did some late night shopping with my cousin Sara and we were both able to take care of a lot of our Christmas shopping. It was awesome being there so late!
Saturday I hung out at home again, and knitted. Matt and Tiffiny came down to celebrate Mom and Barry's birthdays. We went to Timber Lodge. Good food, nice time. Hopefully Mom and Barry enjoyed being treated to a dinner and gifts. It sure seemed like they liked it! It's cool to finally be able to afford paying for a meal after all these years of your parents taking you out. It was a pleasure to split the bill with Matt.
Work is a bit insane this week. Just gets busier and weirder by the minute. I was sick on Tuesday, but felt so guilty that I came in later in the afternoon. I'm thinking my flu shot did the trick at keeping things at bay. I've just felt a little bit yucky for a few days, but able to get pushing through. I sincerely hope that I did the right thing by getting it. First time-but after how sick I was at this time last year, I can't afford to go through that again.
Still looking on the job front. Have a headhunter. Getting a decent start anyway.
This weekend is nothing major. The tree is up, so I'm going to wrap Christmas presents and get that taken care of. Mike is going to a Christmas party in Duluth at his buddies' house. I usually go, but just not in the mood this year. I'm sure he'll have more fun without worrying about me and if I have people to talk to!
Two new shows we are liking: The Tracy Morgan Show (so far...) and Viva La Bam on MTV. Last night's episodes of Scrubs and Will & Grace were to die for funny. I haven't laughed like that for a long time.
Saturday, November 15, 2003
I was out Christmas shopping last weekend at an outlet mall, and at the toy store I found a small Hermie the Elf key chain for $1.99. I came close to buying it for you Lally. But, I'll let your typo go by this time.
Yes, I was Christmas Shopping. I am about half way finished and am trying like mad to get done before Thanksgiving. I do not enjoy Christmas shopping and do not care for Christmas all that much. I hate crowds. Online shopping is very helpful. I am trying to save money this year and am making a few gifts. I just finished a 'no-sew' fleece blanket for my nephew. It's not perfect, but it'll work. I'm going to try my hand at a pillow tomorrow, while finishing up my latch hook rug of Santa. As my friend Jill & I coined our craft attempts "butt-ugly crafts" you can imagine how simple these projects have to be for me. I am going to attempt to learn to knit in a few weeks when I am home for Thanksgiving.
Mike is off deer hunting again this weekend. Second weekend in a row of being home alone. I am getting stuff accomplished as well as relaxing a bit. I haven't done a lot today due to feeling like crap. I'm having some medication adjustments and it leaves me feeling like I'm coming off an addiction. I've spent some quality time on the couch let's just say today.
Saw Matt & Jill's baby again last weekend. His nickname is 'Sammy the Bull' after a mobster. It's appropriate and cute cuz he's just a little guy. But in the week time span since I had last seen him, he had filled out. Technically, he wasn't supposed to arrive until next Tuesday! They are certainly enjoying him and seem to be settling in quite nicely. I'll admit I am moving closer to that direction of having a kid soon, but not there just yet.
Off to finish a few projects on the computer tonight...
And may I saw welcome and Uff Da to you Pat for joining the Sons of Norway.
Yes, I was Christmas Shopping. I am about half way finished and am trying like mad to get done before Thanksgiving. I do not enjoy Christmas shopping and do not care for Christmas all that much. I hate crowds. Online shopping is very helpful. I am trying to save money this year and am making a few gifts. I just finished a 'no-sew' fleece blanket for my nephew. It's not perfect, but it'll work. I'm going to try my hand at a pillow tomorrow, while finishing up my latch hook rug of Santa. As my friend Jill & I coined our craft attempts "butt-ugly crafts" you can imagine how simple these projects have to be for me. I am going to attempt to learn to knit in a few weeks when I am home for Thanksgiving.
Mike is off deer hunting again this weekend. Second weekend in a row of being home alone. I am getting stuff accomplished as well as relaxing a bit. I haven't done a lot today due to feeling like crap. I'm having some medication adjustments and it leaves me feeling like I'm coming off an addiction. I've spent some quality time on the couch let's just say today.
Saw Matt & Jill's baby again last weekend. His nickname is 'Sammy the Bull' after a mobster. It's appropriate and cute cuz he's just a little guy. But in the week time span since I had last seen him, he had filled out. Technically, he wasn't supposed to arrive until next Tuesday! They are certainly enjoying him and seem to be settling in quite nicely. I'll admit I am moving closer to that direction of having a kid soon, but not there just yet.
Off to finish a few projects on the computer tonight...
And may I saw welcome and Uff Da to you Pat for joining the Sons of Norway.
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