Mutterings, Music & More

Could Russ be right?

2011-04-29T18:21:00.004-05:00

Last fall when my DS was home on R&R we went to the Renaisance Festival with a bunch of friends. One of those friends said that I wasn't female because I was missing the shopping gene. I laughed and reminded him that I was unemployed.
Now I'm wondering if he was right....not because of the shopping gene though. Apparently, I'm missing another one. Today was the big royal wedding...I've managed to avoid most of the television coverage (I say most because there was some on the news while I was waiting for the weather forecast).
This leads to the question of the day...could Russ be right?

Radio Swing

2011-03-03T00:06:00.002-06:00

Today the radio was a good thing...it was a bad thing. On my way to work this morning I heard that the Monkees (well 3/4s of the Monkees) are going to be performing at the Minnesota Zoo this summer. I'm psyched and SOOOOO want to go.
Met my boyfirend for a bite to eat after he got off work tonight...he had seen it in the paper and wants to go.
On my way home from spending time with BF I heard the news on the radio. It reminded me why I haven't been watching/listening to the news (other than to catch the weather guess). I physically felt sick when I heard about the servicemen that were shot on a shuttle bus in Germany. My DS has been through that airport several times.
My thought and prayers go out to the families of the victims.

2011 Reading Goals

2011-02-27T16:28:00.002-06:00

Between school and tax season, 2011 is flying past me. I'll try to get back this week for an update and the rest of my goal for 2011.
For today I want to get my reading goals posted. My reading goal for 2011 is 40 books. That does include bookclub books, but does not include required school books.
I have updated the books read section on my sidebar to 2011 books.
Happy reading!

Read in 2010 Final List

2011-01-02T23:04:00.004-06:00

37) What Katy Did Next by Susan Coolidge (currently reading) not finished...
36) The Sleeping Beauty Proposal by Sarah Strohmeyer
35) A Mountain of Crumbs: A Memoir by Elena Gorokhova
34) The Cinderella Pact by Sarah Strohmeyer
33) Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire
32) Silencing Sam (Riley Spartz #3)by Julie Kramer
31) Missing Mark (Riley Spartz #2) by Julie Kramer
30) Stalking Susan (Riley Spartz #1) by Julie Kramer
29) The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
28) The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson
27) The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson
26) Dismantled by Jennifer McMahon
25) The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender
24) Think Twice by Lisa Scottoline
23) Why My Third Husband Will Be A Dog by Lisa Scottoline
22) Stone Creek by Victoria Lustbader
21) Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard by Chip Heath
20) Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson
19) Look Again by Lisa Scottoline
18) The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
17) Tool and Die by Sarah Graves
16) House Rules by Jodi Picoult
15) The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe
14) Mallets Aforethought by Sarah Graves
13) Unhinged by Sarah Graves
12) Survivor by Chuck Palahniuk
11) Wreck The Halls by Sarah Graves
10) Repair To Her Grave by Sarah Graves
9) All Men are Mortal by Simon de Beauvoir
8) Isabella Moon by Laura Benedict
7) Wicked Fix by Sarah Graves
6) Triple Witch by Sarah Graves
5) Dead Cat Bounce by Sarah Graves
4) Nail Biter by Sarah Graves
3) The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery
2) The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo
1) Everything Matters by Ron Currie Jr

My goal for 2010 that was posted on Jan 4, 2010 was ... "Read more. Since I only read 10 books in 2009 (school books don't count), my goal is 20 books. The bookclub will take care of 12 of them, so that leaves 8 of my choosing. (Considering my "to read" pile, this shouldn't be a problem.)" It does appear that I managed to surpass that one.

2011?

2011-01-02T13:38:00.004-06:00

It's 2011 already! What happened to 2010?
In the process of working on my goals for 2011 (I'll look at how I did on my 2010 goals in the next few days). Anyhow, in the process of working on setting goals for 2011 I went looking through my stitching stuff. What did I find? So far I've found 17 WIPs.
Here's my list with tentative goals....

1) My Sunshine (Jan 2011)
2) Angel of Harmony (Jan 2011)
3) "T" Sampler - was a round robin (Feb 2011)
4) "R is for Roses" - was a round robin (Feb 2011)
5) Chris Tree - needs beading (Feb 2011)
6) How Does Your Garden Grow (Mar 2011)
7) Holy Needle Ornate Cross 2008 (Apr 2011)
8) Spring Welcome - was a round robin (Apr 2011)
9) Stanley "Where There's A Will" (June 2011)
10) Summer Quilt line - was a round robin (June 2011)
11) Support Out Troops (Sept 2011)
12) Harley Davidson Clock (November 2011)
13) Carhop Betty (Dec 2011)
14) Pam Kellogg Christmas SAL 2008(?) (Dec 2011)
15)Monopoly Board (Jan 2012)
16) Midsummer Eve (Apr 2012)
17) "Lavender Fields" - neighborhood round robin (Dec 2012)

Dear Neighbor

2010-12-29T12:51:00.005-06:00

Dear Neighbor -

I'm glad that you have such active dogs. And that you are a responsible pet owner and have them on a chain, however, please shorten the chain. Your dog should not be able to reach my house when on the chain in your yard. If one of your dogs comes thru my window, we will have even bigger problems.

thank you!

Future Crazy Cat Lady

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Note, they have two dogs, but only one chain, so the dogs take turns being outside. And it is kind of amusing to watch Fat Cat (aka Junior) sit and watch the darker dog bark it's fool head off. She sits in the window with her tail wagging and doesn't budge - even when they are basically nose to nose.
The holes in the window screen are not so amusing.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T21:01:00.003-06:00

Fall Wrapup...

2010-12-22T21:02:00.003-06:00

Fall quarter is over....well except for waiting for final grades. I took my last final of the quarter tonight.
A week off before winter quarter begins (abnormal psychology, internet marketing, and entrepreneurship. Oh, of course, winter quarter starts the same day as tax season. I was hired as a seasonal tax pro at H&R Block. Should be an interesting few months.

Busy Week

2010-12-19T21:25:00.002-06:00

It's that time of year again. I know you are probably thinking that I'm talking about Christmas, but I'm not. Have to get through fall quarter finals first. This is the last week of the quarter so I have business ethics final tomorrow and artist management & live performance on Wednesday. After that I can think about Christmas.
Can we slip one more week in before Christmas? Please!

Is it spring yet?

2010-12-14T23:17:00.001-06:00

20 inches of snow over the weekend.
Metrodome roof collapses.
More snow predicted for Wednesday/Thursday of this week.
Just one question....
IS IT SPRING YET?

What day is it?

2010-12-09T18:34:00.006-06:00

Or whould I ask what month it is? Not sure where the time has gone.

Since I last posted...
...early fall quarter has come and gone.
...I'm interning for a dj & karaoke company.
...Tommy came home on r&r and has headed back to Afghanistan (this is one of my fav pictures from while he was home.)

...fall quarter has started - and is almost done (business ethics and artist management & live performance).
...winter quarter has been registered for.
...H&R Block's income tax course has run it's course.
...I've been hired as an H&R Block seasonal tax professional.!
...as my read in 2010 list attests, I have gotten some reading done.
...I've gone camping (twice). - those who really know me, please pick yourself up off of the floor.
...I went "deer hunting" - no I didn't shoot, I studied while he went hunting and did some spotting for him.
...Yes, I met someone. We've been seeing each other since the end of August.

I'll try to come back in the next couple of days for a concert/sports/events update.
Happy Thursday all!

Reality Checks

2010-08-22T23:31:00.002-05:00

I realize that reality checks are a necessary fact of life. What I don't understand is why life always has to bite you in the rear or punch you in the gut to make them. Can't they occassionally come as a thump on the noggin or a tap on the shoulder? Just once in a while?

It's a New Quarter

2010-07-19T11:05:00.003-05:00

Early fall quarter (aka summer quarter) starts today. What classes do I have this quarter? Leadership & Management (on line), Copyright & Music Publishing (on campus), and Marketing Strategy (on campus). Should be an intereesting quarter.

Found on Facebook

2010-07-14T16:13:00.000-05:00

I might not be the most beautiful or the sexiest...
Nor do I have the perfect body...
I might not be your first choice...
But I am a GREAT choice...
I don't pretend to be someone else.....
Cause I am too GOOD at being ME...I
might not be proud of some of the things I've done...
But I am proud of who I am today...
Take me as I am...
or watch me as I go!

Long Lost Sister?

2010-07-13T19:14:00.004-05:00

I just finished reading Why My Third Husbard Will Be A Dog by Lisa Scottoline. I swear she could be my long lost sister - or cousin - or something. She wrote about things I've thought about. The book had me laughing and, at a couple of points, crying. The chapters are short, but say a lot.
Even if you don't read the whole book, everyone should read the chapters "Thank You" and "Meals on Wheels"....every woman should read "Newsflash" - ok, so maybe men should read that one too, they might get a hint.
If you've read the book, what did you think?
If you haven't, what are you waiting for?

Roller coaster

2010-07-06T13:37:00.003-05:00

Today has been a roller coaster ride.
UP - Last night I got a call for a job interview at 9:30 this morning.
DOWN - 8:00 this morning, I get a text postponing the interview. (The message said they would contact me to reschedule.)
UP - 8:10 I get a call from a temp agency wanting to know if I could be in the warehouse district of Minneapolis by 10:00 - the person they were going to send wasn't able to go. It would be a 3 week position.
DOWN - Called to confirm the receipt of the info via email. The company had decided to use an internal person to cover the job.
UP - Spoke to another temp agency, they have something in the works that I might be a fit for.
UP - Got a call for an interview tomorrow (a different company).

Waiting for the end of the ride.
And how is your day going?

Survived the Elephant

2010-06-30T22:32:00.002-05:00

Actually, that should read, I survived the Cage the Elephant concert at First Avenue on Monday night. Missed Auto Vaughn (the first act), caught part of 22-20s (not very memorable to me), really enjoyed Cage the Elephant. The text I sent to my brother, sister-in-law, and the ex that was suppose to be there with me read "Cage the Elephant Ain't No Rest For The Wicked live - WOW! Encore - In One Ear :-)"

Here's the picture that I took with my cell phone from the upper level back stageish area.

Thanks to R for going with me!

Not lost, just hiding...

2010-06-26T14:18:00.001-05:00

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Another Finish

2010-06-19T15:36:00.005-05:00

Or maybe I should say two finishes....finished the July pillow top on Wednesday...

...and took my final exam for operations management on Thursday (got a B on the exam, should have an A for the class).

Now, watching the Twins/Philly game and working on the final assignment for workplace legal issues - hope to take that final on Monday.

Happy Father's Day to all!

She did what?

2010-06-16T14:58:00.005-05:00

"OMG! I don't believe it!" - Frog seems to have fainted from shock.
What caused this?
I stitched! Finished the August pillow (picture below) and started the July pillow (will post a picture when I finish that one) - trying to figure out where June went to.

It may have happened...

2010-06-14T22:47:00.002-05:00

What you ask? I may be inspired to pick up a needle and do some cross stitching. In the mail today I recieved the Just Cross Stitch Christmas Ornament Preview! and the August 2010 issue of Cross Stitch Gold. JCS has a Brittercup Design ornament that is screaming at me plus a Liberty Tree by Mafry McLenon-Turley. The Cross Stitch Gold has a Native American maiden by Joan Elliott on the cover that I keep looking at - trying to figure out what color material I'd stitch it on.
Could it be happening? Could a needle and floss be in my not too distant future? I do have my operations management final on Thursday - and workplace legal issue final next week - and a book club book to finish reading - but it looks like it could be happening.

Warning!

2010-06-12T17:38:00.003-05:00

You have been warned! When I don't get out enough...and then take a camera with me when I finally do go out. This....

leads to this...

and this....

Had a great time at the Point seeing James Zackary and Gary Narducci play. (Edgar and the mystery keyboard player too.)
Hopefully it won't be months before I get to see them again.

English Please!

2010-06-10T19:03:00.002-05:00

Don't get me wrong, I love hearing from my DS - even if he calls at 3:30 in the morning. But when you combine the time of the call with the military jargon, and you have a confused mom.
I am learning the lingo as we go along, but...
Do any of the other mom's out there have trouble understanding their kids?

It's a birthday!

2010-06-05T21:16:00.005-05:00

I have a hard time believing that my baby boy is turning 23! Here his birthday is tomorrow (June 6th), but where he's currently stationed it's already his birthday.

To my son. Happy birthday! I love you and I'm proud of you.

Decisions...

2010-06-01T20:19:00.004-05:00

The insurance adjustor looked at the van this morning. $5,340 of damage on a vehicle valued at $1,371. Looking into the price list on the damages, the majority of the expense is labor. I know someone that should be able to do the work for less, and can get the parts for less than the estimate. The question is, do I total the vehicle (let the insurance company take it), or buy it back for $250 and get the repairs done. Anybody want to guess what I'm trying to figure out tonight?

Time flies...

2010-05-29T21:16:00.003-05:00

OK, I'm going to start by saying, I'm not sure how it's been two months since I posted. But then again my concept of time has been really messed up lately - not necessarily my concept of time, but my ability to keep track of what day of the week it is. (Yes, I've been known to have to look at my phone to see what the date is, then look at the calendar to see what day of the week it is. - one of the hazards of being unemployed.)
Mostly, I've been looking for work and doing school work. No luck so far on the employment front. This quarter at school, I have workplace legal issues, operations management, and recording industry. IF I've calculated correctly, I have about 12 classes left after this quarter - and yes, I'm planning on taking "early fall" classes (known to the majority of the world as summer session).
I haven't been doing much (ok - any) stitching, but have done some reading. The list on the right side of the page is up to date - and next on deck is The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson (a bookclub book, not my choice).
I'm slowly learning to cope with my DS being deployed to Afghanistan. The news is really hard to watch some nights, and reading the newspaper is harder some days than others. There are also certain songs that I can't listen to without crying. (If you run into me at karaoke and I walk out while you're singing - it's nothing personal, it's the song you've chosen to do.)
I have spoken to him on the phone several times, and he sent me a present. Well not a souvenier type thing, but I got a Wii delivered to my door step courtesy of him.
I've got it hooked up, but haven't played with it a lot yet - dealing with school and an issue that ex #2 caused.
What kind of issue? Long story short, ex #2 took one of my vehicles without my permission. He got a DUI and I'm waiting to see if the insurance company is going to total out my van. Still not sure what he hit - the report I've seen from court indicates "failed to yield right of way". Dealing with this had been very time consuming!
Will end with a bright note. I made it to the drive in last night. (Admission pricing has gone up from last year, but the concession stand prices appear to have gone down - I don't eat there but love to go look at the memoriabilia they have in the building.) Shrek Forever After was ok, but a little disappointing - ok story line but not as funny as anticipated. Iron Man 2 was also disappointing - they tried to stuff too much into the movie. A Nightmare on Elm Street (2010) was a waste of time. I've never seen the original, and there was no character development, so in my opinion - don't bother. (The person that went with me has seen the original and felt the same way.)
If you've made it this far, thank you! I can't guarentee that I'll post every day, but it won't be two months before I post again.
Have a happy and safe Memorial Day!

Song of the day....

2010-03-30T23:12:00.001-05:00

Pray For You by Jaron and the Long Road to Love

I havent been to church since I don’t remember when
Things were goin’ great ‘til they fell apart again
So I listened to the preacher as he told me what to do
He said you can’t go hatin’ others who have done wrong to you
Sometimes we get angry, but we must not condemn
Let the good Lord do His job and you just pray for them

I pray your brakes go out runnin’ down a hill
I pray a flowerpot falls from a window sill and knocks you in the head like I’d like to
I pray your birthday comes and nobody calls
I pray you’re flyin’ high when your engine stalls
I pray all your dreams never come true
Just know whereever you are honey, I pray for you

I’m really glad I found my way to church
‘Cause I’m already feelin’ better and I thank God for the words
Yeah I’m goin’ take the high road
And do what the preacher told me to do
You keep messin’ up and I’ll keep prayin’ for you

I pray your tire blows out at 110
I pray you pass out drunk with your best friend and wake up with his and her tattoos

I pray your brakes go out runnin’ down a hill
I pray a flowerpot falls from a window sill and knocks you in the head like I’d like to
I pray your birthday comes and nobody calls
I pray you’re flyin’ high when your engine stalls
I pray all your dreams never come true
Just know whereever you are, near or far, in your house or in your car,
wherever you are honey, I pray for you.
I pray for you

Spring Break!

2010-03-24T15:31:00.001-05:00

Final final of the quarter done. Waiting on grades.
Spring quarter starts April 5th.
Hmmm...what to do with all the extra time?

Quote of the day

2010-03-21T16:29:00.002-05:00

"Demolish the bridges behind you...then there is no choice but to move forward."
--Firdtjof Nansen

Road Work Ahead

2010-03-17T23:40:00.003-05:00

Recently I've come to realize that my life is like a major metropolis city...lots of one way streets. Some of them make sense. Some of them lead nowhere.
The ones that are leading somewhere, and/or have the potential to become a two way street, I'm leaving be for now.
The ones that I'm not sure where they're leading to, I'm putting up caution signs.
And then there are the ones that I'm closing. Not just lanes, but the whole road. It may take a while to get all of these closed, but I'm working on it.

Happy Dance!

2010-03-03T23:47:00.004-06:00

No, don't get too excited. I haven't found a job....or finished a cross stitch project. However, I do have tickets to Brooks & Dunn with Jason Aldean for May...and just saw the commercial that "Glee" is back on the air the day before my birthday. OH, and I finished another book, next up the April book club book.
Hey, I'll take what I can get. What are you celebrating today?

The picture says it all!

2010-02-22T00:04:00.000-06:00

Party!

2010-02-15T20:00:00.005-06:00

My DS met his newest cousin at his predeployment party on Saturday. Here's the evidence - I mean picture.

Here's a link to more pictures from the party.

And a slideshow tribute to my DS that my SIL created.

I'm a stalker!

2010-02-11T16:40:00.002-06:00

Ok, maybe I should clarify, I'm not really stalking. I'm just keeping tabs on the flight from Detroit to Minneapolis/St. Paul. Yes, the flight that my DS is on. Last check it was awaiting takeoff.
This is after keeping track of the flight from Frankfaurt to Detroit earlier today. That flight was delayed over an hour because of weather in Germany.
I know, I know, a watched pot doesn't boil. But I want to see my baby boy.

And the journey begins...

2010-02-11T00:14:00.003-06:00

In the last two days I have dealt with being icicled in. I had to break them with the screen door in order to get outside, so that I could spend over an hour shoveling for the second day in a row. But do I care at this point? No! Why? Because as I type this my son is on the train on his way to the airport in Frankfurt, Germany. At last check his flight from there to Detroit is suppose to be on time. Will be checking status updates throughout the day tomorrow, until it's time to pick him up at the Minneapolis/St. Paul airport.
What to do while waiting. Wait for the kringle for his party to be delivered, oh yeah and take a midterm for Intercultural Communications.
Happy Dance!

Oh The Weather Outside...

2010-02-08T12:26:00.002-06:00

Well, I'm not really sure, I haven't ventured out yet. But there is a double scroll line of closures going across the bottom of the tv screen. And I've already gotten the call that the board meeting is canceled for tonight.
This stuff can move on anytime now. It's three days til my DS comes home on leave. Momma ready to see her boy.

I'm Studying....

2010-02-02T22:04:00.003-06:00

...that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Ok, haven't posted that I signed up for bartending school. When I registered I got a pack of drink recipes. It's a learn at your own speed (1 on 1 instruction) school. I plan to go in tomorrow for the first couple of lessons, but attempted to make kamikazees tonight. The first attempt, too much sweet sour mix. The second attempt, to much 7 up. Third times a charm?
Did I mention that I made two drinks each attempt?

Have the kleenex handy!

2010-01-28T11:45:00.001-06:00

Heard this song for the first time yesterday. Make sure you have the kleenex handy...

The Call by Matt Kennon

Today was gonna be the day
He´d already wrote the note
And parked that Chevrolet
At the end of that dead end road
Had his finger on the trigger; just about to end everything
He was taking one last long breathe; when he heard his cell phone ring

And his best friends say man where you been?
We´re headed down to the lake this weekend
You better not miss it ´cause buddy I swear
It won´t be the same If you aint there
And i told that girl that you like so much
You were coming along and her eyes lit up
I better let you go man i really hope i didnt catch you in the middle of anything
He said you kinda did but i don´t mind at all
I´m glad you called

In another town down the road
In the backseat of a car
Two 18 year olds had let a kiss go to far
He said how are we gonna have this child
When were both headed off to school?
He convinced her late one night there´s only one thing to do
She was scared to death in that waiting room
When the nurse asked how far along are you
She said 5 weeks and just about then her phone lit up
And his call came in
Saying baby i was wrong about everything
I´ve already bought you a diamond ring we´ re gonna start a life
Would you be my wife
Boy or girl; pink or blue; yeah either way
All she could say as she felt those tear drops falls was
I´m so glad you called

If someone you know is waiting on your mind
And needs a friend on the other end line
Don´t hesitate what you say may seem so small
But who knows
They might be glad you called

So make the call

Yeah make that call

Was there an alien invasion?

2010-01-26T20:40:00.003-06:00

There must have been. How else could I have lost the time I did this last weekend?
The idea for the weekend was to just get away. Picked up my friend early Friday afternoon - was suppose to be Friday morning but didn't get the "I'm ready" call until after noon. By the time I got there to pick up, there wasn't enough time to hit the Titanic exhibit and get to the hotel for check in (note to self, next time guarentee the reservation!). So, went with the flow and changed plans.
We hit Red Lobster and then went back to hotel and watched "Aliens in the Attic" followed by boxing on HBO, planing to hit the exhibit on Saturday.
What's the saying about the best laid plans? Slept in on Saturday, so by the time we were ready to go, our plans had hit an iceberg. (I had been to the exhibit once, but really wanted to see it again.) Went to Old Country Buffett, did some shopping, and then back to the room to watch the movie again (gotta love watch as many times as you want/24 hour in room rental). I checked emails while my partner in crime hit the hot tub (I know I bought a new suit last year, but have no clue where it is). Then ordered "Monsters vs Aliens" and hit the hotel resteraunt for dinner (gotta love buy one get one coupons).
Couldn't sleep in on Sunday, had to get home so somebody could get to work. Dropped off and headed home to watch football. (No nails left thanks to the Vikings).
So, how was your weekend? Did the aliens invade anyone else, or was it just me that hit a time warp?

Found this on Facebook...

2010-01-21T20:13:00.002-06:00

but wanted to share this with my friends that aren't on Facebook.

"I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best." Marilyn Monroe

Hmm. Maybe it should be my new motto.

East Bound and Down....

2010-01-11T13:57:00.003-06:00

No, not road tripping...this song just fits for this week...

Lyrics to East Bound And Down : performed by Jerry Reed
East bound and down, loaded up and truckin'
a'we gonna do what they say can't be done
We've got a long why to go and a short time to get there
I'm east bound just watch ol'Bandit run

Keep your foot hard on the peddle...son, never mind them brakes
let it all hang out cause we've got a run to make
The boys are thirsty in Atlanta,and there's beer in Texarcana
and we'll bring it back no matter what it takes

East bound and down, loaded up and truckin'
a'we gonna do what they say can't be done
We've got a long way to go and a short time to get there
I'm east bound just watch ol'Bandit run ......

( banjo & guitar solo )

Old Smokey's got them ears on, he's hot on your trail
and he ain't gonna rest 'till you're in jail
So you gotta dodge him.... you gotta duck him
You've gotta keep that diesel truckin....
just put that hammer down and give it hell

East bound and down, loaded up and truckin'
a'we gonna do what they say can't be done
We've got a long way to go and a short time to get there
I'm east bound just watch ol'Bandit run

Why this song this week? It's a shorter quarter at school, so more work each week. Three chapters plus for small business management, reading and an Animoto presentation (need to figure out what that is) plus for intercultural communications.
Add that to a board meeting tonight - followed by a business meeting - and a short week to get homework done. Why is it a short week? I have tickets to two concerts this weekend (Brad Paisley with Miranda Lambert on Saturday and James Otto with Joey & Rory on Sunday) AND tickets to the Vikings playoff game on Sunday.
Hmmm...maybe the song should be Jason Michael Carroll's "I Can Sleep When I'm Dead"

Weekend!

2010-01-10T19:16:00.002-06:00

What happened to the weekend? Where'd it go?
OK, let's start by admitting that since getting laid off, I sometimes lose track of what day of the week it is. Sometimes, I have to look at the cell phone to see what the date is, then look at the calendar to see what day of the week it is.
This weekend was a blur of football (I got 3 of the 4 games right), Johnny Depp (Public Enemies was pretty good),reading (school work and started The Redbreast by Jo Nesbo), job hunting, and a little baking (trying to keep from devouring the loaf of cranberry bread). Now I'm going to do some stitching and watch Ty (Extreme Makeover Home Edition).
So, how was your weekend?

3 more pics

2010-01-08T21:28:00.007-06:00

Me and my boy.

2 of my best friends....Z & A

Me and Z

Pictures

2010-01-08T12:08:00.012-06:00

DS when he was home on leave in August...Reminder of what he looks like, so I'll recognize him in February!

Charlotte wasn't afraid of him.

Some stitching...Pine Mountain Designs 2009 Pillows.

First book of the year completed

2010-01-06T23:41:00.000-06:00

Everything Matters!: A Novel by Ron Currie Jr.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Parts of this book were hard to read. That being said, I did like the book because it made me think.

View all my reviews >>

2010 Goals

2010-01-04T23:01:00.003-06:00

I previously posted what I want to do in 2010. Now I'm posting some specifics.

~ Finish my degree. Goal - Winter quarter 2011, (provided the needed classes are available)
~ Find a job that I love.
~ Kick my business into gear. Working on gameplan for this.
~ Get back to my goal weight. Got on scale this morning, want to drop 20 pounds. Will re-add a ticker to my blog IF I can remember how.
~ Sing more. Karaoke at least twice a month.
~ Relearn to play the guitar. Lessons will have to wait until I'm employed again, unless one of my musician friends takes pity on me. Realistically, the library should have books/dvd's that will give me a refresher to get me started.
~ Read more. Since I only read 10 books in 2009 (school books don't count), my goal is 20 books. The bookclub will take care of 12 of them, so that leaves 8 of my choosing. (Considering my "to read" pile, this shouldn't be a problem.)
~ Stitch more. There were a few months last year when I didn't stitch at all. Here's a starter plan for this year.
**Stitch some each week.
**My homestead JC's neighborhood round robin.
**Finish the 2009 Pine Mountain Designs pillows (4 done, 8 to go)
**Finish Support Our Troops
**Finish the Monopoly board.
**Finish the Harley clock.
**Finish Midsummer Eve
**Revaluate once these projects are done.

Short - Not necessarily sweet....

2010-01-02T22:40:00.000-06:00

Tonight is the Steve Miller concert. I am suppose to be there. Why am I on line then? Because the person I was suppose to go with didn't call to let me know that they couldn't make it until it was too late to find someone else to go with. Trying to look on the bright side, at least I didn't have to go out in the COLD!

2010?

2010-01-01T22:17:00.006-06:00

I had this first post of 2010 all figured out.
About how can it be 2010 already? Wasn't it just last year that we were dealing with the fears Y2K.
A post reflecting on the past decade. Not the big, national stories like the attack on the twin towers, or the collapse of the 35W bridge, or the collapse of the economy. Pesonal things, like losing my grandmother in 2000. About how proud I am of my DS who became a teenager in 2000, and became the Army specialist that he is today. How in the past decade I met the man who is now known as ex #2. About my battle with nonHodgkins. About how the decade started with the birth of a nephew and ended with the birth of a niece.
A post about reconnecting with old friends, growing closer to people that were "acquaintances" at the beginning of the decade (including the person that I consider one of my closest friends). Discovering the Cross Stitch Crazy board, the Little Bit of Everything Bookclub, the monthly stitching get together group, the Freefallin' band - and the friendships that came with these discoveries. And of finding out who my friends really are.
About trying to find the balance between school, job hunting, and me time.
In the "me time" catagory, I went out of town with friends for a couple of days and didn't even log on to check emails. I spent the time enjoying the company, did some reading, did some stitching, relaxed, and thought about the last ten years.
That's what this post was suppose to be about.
Then I got home and the repeat of the season finale of Biggest Loser came on. I heard Jillian make a statement - "Don't wait for life to happen. Make life happen."
This got me thinking. I can't change the past, I can only learn from it. I can take control of my life.
And that's were this post ended up. What do I want? Where do I want to be a year from now?
I want to finish my degree.
I want to find a job that I love.
I want to kick my business into gear.
I want to get back to my goal weight.
I want to sing more.
I want to relearn to play the guitar.
I want to read more.
I want to stitch more.
I want to be happy....strike that, I deserve to be happy.
Some of these things I know what I need to do. Some of them I need to brainstorm on.
I'll be back with goals for those that have such a thing.

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

2009-12-24T14:37:00.001-06:00

NOT!
It started snowing last night.
I've already shoveled twice.
It's suppose to keep snowing thru Saturday.
Wake me when it's spring!

Still haven't seen her, but...

2009-12-24T00:26:00.001-06:00

here's a picture of my new niece and her two big brothers.

Hopefully the weather will cooperate after the holidays so I can hold her.

Forget?

2009-12-19T19:07:00.001-06:00

Congrats!

2009-12-16T17:54:00.002-06:00

To my baby brother and his wife. Their little girl made her appearance today. (OK the doctors helped, she was being stubborn - was due last Thursday, the 10th). 8 pounds 12 ounces is the information I have so far.

Catch Up

2009-12-12T00:34:00.003-06:00

Quick catch up...
Why is looking for a full time job more of a full time job than working a full time job? Yes, I'm still looking.
I admit defeat - had Statistics II this quarter, but was in way over my head, so I withdrew from the class. Decided that a "W" on the transcript was better than risking an "F". (No, the class is not required for my degree, it was a general ed. elective.)
Just got back from Wisconsin. My oldest nephew, CM, had surgery on Tuesday. The surgery wasn't as in depth as the thought it might have to be...they "only" patched his eardrum. 14 year olds on pain meds can be amusing (once you know that they are going to be ok).
Well, amusing to auntie. Mom (my SIL) who is pregnant, and was due yesterday, is ready to send him back to school. (he's scheduled to be out until the 1st of the year).
Got to spend some quality time with the younger nephew. Even got to hear him play the violin. Bravo CJ!
A & W now know what kringle is. I was a bad influence and brought some back from Wisconsin with me. A, let me know if you want the recipe that I have. W, still waiting to hear what you think of it. (In my defense, I wouldn't have thought of doing it if one of CM's friends hadn't given him some on Wednesday. I had forgotten how good it is, but he shared and reminded me.)
Talked to DS today. Still waiting to hear about the knee. Hopefully, next week. Tom Petty is right, the waiting is the hardest part.
Finally, I was reminded why I have pets. The cats were happy to see me when I got home. Well, for the most part. One of them gave me attitude for a while. Now, she's sitting next to me as I type this.

FWD

2009-11-17T23:49:00.002-06:00

I'd like to meet the person that created the FWD. To thank them? NO! To smack them upside the head? Yep!
The emails that get forwarded are annoying (I'm not talking about you get information that I need and pass it on to me - I'm talking about the jokes that have been going around and around, or the urban myths, etc...). And 99% of the ones that I receive get deleted.
The only thing worse than forwarded emails. The FWD texts. Why? Because they are costing me money! I have a set amount of texts each month. If I go over that amount, I get charged.
Maybe it's just me, but that's how I feel.

Another Saturday Night..

2009-11-08T21:29:00.003-06:00

A and I went out last night. We went to McCrackens to see FreeFallin' with JackLaugh. FreeFallin is always a good show. (last night was the 32nd time seeing them.)
The second time I had seen JackLaugh. Looking forward to seeing them again.

Dale - since you told me you'd been checking out my blog...I'll make sure to get a bottle of A1 so you don't have a repeat of last night.

Perspective

2009-11-01T17:30:00.003-06:00

To my friends and loyal readers. Sorry that it's been so long since my last post. The day after that post I was laid off (after 19 1/2 years with the company). My world was disrupted (to say the least). Since then I have been looking for a new job, trying to concentrate on my classes towards my degree (this quarter statistics and finance), and taking a tax preperation course.
I've also been putting things in perspective. At my age, and with the economy the way it is, looking for a new career opportunity is a challenge. A challenge, but not the end of the world. This is an opportunity to re-evaluate what I want to do and where I want to be.
Putting this in perspective, I looking at...
*Two friends have been diagnosed with cancer. My thoughts and prayers are with them and their families. I admire the way they are handling what life has thrown at them.
*My son is scheduled to go "down range" next year. I'm proud of him, but am a mom.
*My nephew messed up his knee playing high school football. Thankfully, it's not too serious - physical therapy should have him back to new.
*My SIL is expecting in December. Now if my niece would cooperate and move from the breach position.
*Concerned about my mom's health, but she doesn't want to hear it. Or do anything about it.

On the bright side, I've had time to actually do some non-school reading, to spend more time with friends, and to find out who my true friends are. I've picked up a crochet hook for the first time in almost a decade and a cross stitch needle for the first time in too long.
As Gloria Gaynor sang "I Will Survive"....maybe I need to break that out at karaoke (something else I've done for the first time in too long).

And the winner is...

2009-09-09T18:11:00.003-05:00

Borrowed from Ms. V.....

The 43rd annual CMA Awards will broadcast live from Nashville, Nov. 11 on ABC.

2009 CMA Nominations

Entertainer of the Year

Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
George Strait
Taylor Swift
Keith Urban

MY CHOICE - I'd love to see Taylor win, but think it will be Kenny Chesney.

------------------------

New Artist Of The Year

Randy Houser
Jamey Johnson
Jake Owen
Darius Rucker
Zac Brown Band

MY CHOICE - Zac Brown Band

------------------------

Female Vocalist of the Year

Miranda Lambert
Martina McBride
Reba McEntire
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood

MY CHOICE - Sorry Miranda, have to go with Taylor Swift

------------------------

Male Vocalist of the Year

Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Darius Rucker
George Strait
Keith Urban

MY CHOICE - Kenny Chesney

------------------------

Vocal Group of the Year

Eagles
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Rascal Flatts
Zac Brown Band

MY CHOICE - Lady Antebellum

------------------------

Vocal Duo of the Year

Big & Rich
Brooks & Dunn
Joey + Rory
Montgomery Gentry
Sugarland

MY CHOICE - Sugarland

------------------------

Album of the Year (Award goes to artist and producer)

'American Saturday Night' - Brad Paisley
'Defying Gravity' - Keith Urban
'Fearless' - Taylor Swift
'Love on the Inside' - Sugarland
'That Lonesome Song' - Jamey Johnson

MY CHOICE - Taylor Swift

------------------------

Single of the Year (Award goes to artist and producer)

'Chicken Fried' - Zac Brown Band
'I Run to You' - Lady Antebellum
'In Color' - Jamey Johnson
'People Are Crazy' - Billy Currington
'Then' - Brad Paisley

MY CHOICE - "Chicken Fried" Zac Brown Band

------------------------

Song of the Year (Award goes to songwriters)

'Chicken Fried' - Zac Brown, Wyatt Durette
'I Told You So' - Randy Travis
'In Color' - Jamey Johnson, Lee Thomas Miller, James Otto
'People Are Crazy' - Bobby Braddock, Troy Jones
'Then' - Brad Paisley, Chris DuBois, Ashley Gorley

MY CHOICE - "In Color"

------------------------

Musical Event of the Year

'Cowgirl's Don't Cry' - Brooks & Dunn with Reba McEntire
'Down The Road' - Kenny Chesney with Mac McAnally
'Everything But Quits' - Lee Ann Womack with George Strait
'I Told You So' - Carrie Underwood with Randy Travis
'Old Enough' - The Raconteurs with Ricky Skaggs & Ashley Monroe

MY CHOICE - Would love to see "Cowgirl's Don't Cry", but think it will be "I Told You So"

------------------------

Music Video of the Year (Award goes to artist and director)

'Boots On' - Randy Houser
'Love Story' - Taylor Swift
'People Are Crazy' - Billy Currington
'Start a Band' - Brad Paisley and Keith Urban
'Troubadour' - George Strait

MY CHOICE - Haven't seen any of them, but the video in my head when I hear the song..."Love Story" - Taylor Swift

------------------------

Musician of the Year

Eddie Bayers
Paul Franklin
Dann Huff
Brent Mason
Mac McAnally

MY CHOICE - Mac McAnally

We'll have to wait to see if Ms. V or myself made the better picks.

Hugs!

2009-07-30T12:46:00.002-05:00

He arrived safely. Late, but safely. Missed his flight from Detroit - the plane landed early, but by the time they got to the gate, he claimed his luggage and got thru customs, he had to reschedule to a later flight. He was a good boy and called to let me know.
Since I don't fly, I don't go to the airport a lot. Was proud of myself. Got to the right terminal, found the baggage claim area, figured out how to read the board to know which carasoul thingie his bags would be at, and then waited. His plane had already landed. And waited. His plane was at the gate. And waited. People coming down from the gate. Black pants, black shirt, blond hair - not my boy. Finally see him. Wait for him to exit the restricted area. Hug! Head to baggage area #3. And wait. Bags start making the circle. Don't see his. Conveyor stops moving. Still don't see his bag. Walk around the circle. There it is, sitting behind the circle. Was smart and had written down where I parked, so it was just a matter of getting there. (OK, was smart and wrote it down, but parked in "general parking" so paid $5 more than if I had parked in "short term parking" - note to self, park in short term when take him back to the airport.)
Stopped to grab a bite to eat, found out he'd been up for 36 hours (had napped a bit on the plane, but...). Mom was not going to let him get in a car and drive for almost 4 hours....held him "hostage", made him get some sleep, took some pictures, let him leave this morning. He's called that he made it to Aitkin. Now to get on his schedule for while he's home.
On the bright side, no tears yet....those will be when I have to drop him off.

Waiting On A Jet Plane

2009-07-29T11:18:00.003-05:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I don't fly. (I can roadtrip with the best of them, but you won't get me on a plane.) So why would I be waiting on a plane? Because it has my DS on it. Last text I had from him was at 3:20 this morning, he was on the plane in Frankfurt (Germany).
Have been checking the website for updates, they are ahead of schedule for arrival in Detroit. Will be watching for when they leave Detroit so that I can leave work to get to the airport to pick him up.
It's been over a year since I last saw him in person, hope I recognize him. Asked him what he was wearing just to be sure (no it's not camo). HELLO! Like I'm not going to recognize my baby boy. Think he left his sense of humor at the base.
Will be back later with a picture or two or ten.

Word of the day...

2009-07-23T11:34:00.005-05:00

From dictionary.com
groupie/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [groo-pee]
–noun Informal. 1. a young person, esp. a teenage girl, who is an ardent admirer of rock musicians and may follow them on tour.
2. an ardent fan of a celebrity or of a particular activity: a tennis groupie.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Groupie
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search
A groupie is a person who seeks sexual and/or emotional intimacy with a celebrity or other authority figure. "Groupie" is derived from group in reference to a musical group, but now has more general application.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
And finally, here's a link to an explanation of "What is a groupie".

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Yep, you guessed it, somebody called me a groupie last night......somebody who knows better. If said person was using the dictionary.com definition it wouldn't be bad, don't think that's the definition said person was using.

And for the record, I'm not. To some bands, I'm a fan. To some, a friend. To others, I'm just a patron in the establishment enjoying. (Doing research for my booking and promotions business.)

Things that make you go "Hmm?"

2009-07-20T14:13:00.002-05:00

Thing #1 - Sign I saw on the way back from lunch. "The heart has reasons that reason doesn't understand."

Thing #2 - Spent yesterday out and about with A and her two boys. I understand how I sunburnt my one arm, my face/part of my forehead, even the scalp where my hair parts. Don't understand how I sunburnt my clevage. (Before anyone asks, I did have a shirt on.)

Thing #3 - Why new/upgraded systems always take at least 4 times longer for you to complete anything.

What's on your mind today?

Inspiration?

2009-07-14T11:33:00.003-05:00

Last night I was going through some of my karaoke cds looking for, I don't know, inspiration. Not sure that I found any, but did find an old Helen Reddy song. Anybody else remember "Ain't No Way To Treat A Lady"?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I guess it was yourself you were involved with,
I would've sworn it was me.
I might've found out sooner if you'd only let me
close enough to see.

That ain't no way to treat a lady no way
to treat your baby, your lover, your friend.
That Ain't no way to treat a lady no way,
but maybe it's a way for us to end.

I was only being a picture
with all the colors I know.
While you were busy looking into
wide blue mirrors and lovin the show.

That ain't no way to treat a lady no way
to treat your baby, your lover, your friend.
That Ain't no way to treat a lady no way,
but maybe it's a way for us to end.

There's a funny kind of consolation keeping me sane.
And I'd really like to share it call on deep in my brain.
To see the times you never felt me loving you or needing you
So leavin you now you still wont know how
to free me from the pain.

I was looking out for my happiness
while you were looking within.
And before you know your own reflection
always starts to tire. It's happened again.

That ain't no way to treat a lady no way
to treat your baby, your lover, your friend.
That Ain't no way to treat a lady no way,
but maybe it's a way for us to end.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Maybe that was what I was looking for and just didn't know it.

Finally Friday!

2009-07-10T11:45:00.002-05:00

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Add this to the fact that I have "Raspberry Beret" stuck in my head (THANKS V!) and I can't figure out what I want to do this weekend....Are you sure I can't just crawl back under the covers? Please!

I found one!!!!

2009-07-08T16:13:00.000-05:00

The soldier on the left is my DS.

Where are the bears?

2009-07-07T11:08:00.004-05:00

The Lions Club International is having there convention in town this week.
The Twins played the Tigers last weekend.
Where are the bears?

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

In Search Of....

2009-07-06T10:45:00.003-05:00

...pictures of Dr. Jill Biden in Germany this weekend. My DS got pulled into the "horse and pony show" and pictures were taken of him meeting her. (He was on duty.) So far I have found pictures of her with the garrison commander and with families of soldiers, but am hoping to find the one I'm looking for.

Thanks!

If it were only this easy....

2009-07-02T14:09:00.000-05:00

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Dropped

2009-06-30T12:29:00.002-05:00

My cumulative grade point average is down to 3.8.
Why? Because of the Microsoft Office Professionals class I just completed.
Why? After getting bumped out of part one of the online final twice (two different computers and both times I was past the half way point). Determined that I had enough points for a solid C without that part of the final or the three final projects,which I didn't have time to work on because of fighting with part one of the test. Decided my sanity was worth more than a higher grade for a class that I don't feel should be required (won't go off on that rant).
Final grade for Business Law - A.
Final grade for Entertianment Networking and Self Promotion - A.
Now to get some business stuff taken care of, along with some stitching and reading before the next quarter starts on July 20th.

One Down, Two to Go...

2009-06-24T11:42:00.002-05:00

Took my Business Law final last night. Found out this morning got a 97% on it.
Will be taking my MicroSoft Office final today.
Entertainment Networking and Self Promotion final is tomorrow.

Then it's three weeks off before "early fall" quarter starts.

Which of course gets a song stuck in my head....All She Wants to Do is Dance!

To my dear baby brother....

2009-06-23T09:13:00.002-05:00

What's in your CD player today?

2009-06-19T12:26:00.001-05:00

Here's what's in mine.

it’s a big bad world
were doing what we can
sometimes we fall on our face
before we even learn to stand
but we get back up
shake off all the dust
and take it step by step

i can fill the whole floor to the cieling
with all the dead wrong choices ive made
and even though we try to learn
from each others mistakes

we’ll do it again (doing it again)
we’ll do it again my friend (doing it again)
we’ll do it again and again
till we eventually can change
the way its always been

it’s a big bad dream
following your heart
sometimes the one you
need’s the one that tears you apart
so you say goodbye
kiss her one more time
and cry the whole way home

i can fill up the driest river
with all the tears falling off of my face
and even though we try to learn
from each others mistakes

we’ll do it again (doing it again)
we’ll do it again my friend (doing it again)

we’ll do it again and again
till we eventually can change
the way its always been(x2)

just running ’round in circles
tripping over every hurdle
were just trying to do the best that we can

it’s a big bad life
all that we can do
is try to make it right
tomorrow something new
so if a big rain cloud
follows you around
dont let it get you down

we’ll do it again (doing it again)
we’ll do it again my friend (doing it again)
we’ll do it again and again
till we eventually can change
the way its always been

(oh) we’ll do it again (doing it again)
we’ll do it again my friend (doing it again)
we’ll do it again and again
till we eventually can change
the way its always been (doing it again)

we do it again and again
till we eventually can change
the way it’s always been

Not that I'm counting...

2009-06-18T15:30:00.002-05:00

But one week from today is the last day of spring quarter.
I need to finish a book report (for entertainment networking), a brochure (for busienss law), and a couple of assignments (for Microsoft Office Professional II). Then it's finals and 3 weeks off before the "Early Fall" quarter starts.
Where's Alice when I need him?

What happens when you change the station...

2009-06-11T15:04:00.004-05:00

...you hear a song you haven't heard before.

Artist: Darryl Worley
Song: Sounds Like Life To Me

Got a call last night from an old friend’s wife
Said I hate to bother you
Johnny Ray fell off the wagon
He’s been gone all afternoon
I know my buddy so I drove to Skully’s
And found him at the bar
I say hey man, what’s going on
He said I don’t know where to start

Sarah’s old car’s about to fall apart
And the washer quit last week
We had to put momma in the nursing home
And the baby’s cutting teeth
I didn’t get much work this week
And I got bills to pay
I said I know this ain’t what you wanna hear
But it’s what I’m gonna say

(Chorus)
Sounds like life to me it ain’t no fantasy
It’s just a common case of everyday reality
Man I know it’s tough but you gotta suck it up
To hear you talk you’re caught up in some tragedy
It sounds like life to me

Well his face turned red and he shook his head
He said you don’t understand
Three kids and a wife depend on me
And I’m just one man
To top it off I just found out
That Sarah’s 2 months late
I said hey bartender set us up a round
We need to celebrate

(Chorus)
Sounds like life to me plain old destiny
Yeah the only thing for certain is uncertainty
You gotta hold on tight just enjoy the ride
Get used to all this unpredictability
Sounds like life

Man I know its tough but you gotta suck it up
To hear you talk you’re caught up in some tragedy
Sounds like life to me
Sounds like life

If only....

2009-06-10T16:35:00.001-05:00

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The Latest in Technology...

2009-06-08T10:28:00.004-05:00

Don't know how many of you have heard of the latest advancement to telephone service. It's called voice mail. It is amazing, if you try to call someone, and they don't answer, you can leave them a messge. What a concept!

Sadly, this amazing advancement doesn't work with certain people. Who you may ask? The person that you leave a message for, who doesn't bother to listen to the message, who instead calls you saying "I saw that you called".
Or, the person that calls you, doesn't leave a message, and then gets mad when you don't call back. IF you had left me a message, I would have known you wanted/needed me to call back. Since you didn't, I figured you just called to chat.

Maybe I'm the exception, but I actually take the time to listen to the messages left on my voice mail. What a concept!

Madness!

2009-06-03T17:03:00.003-05:00

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Not that lucky....that I could deal with.

Ex #2 needed a place for his cat (Marcy - short for Rocky Marciano) to stay for a while. She is at my house. What's one more feline when you already have three?

Let me preface the events by stating that Marcy might weigh 6 pounds. She is the smallest of the four. She is the youngest of the four. Oh, and she hasn't been declawed.

Night 1. Junior (aka Fat Cat - who weighs about 16 pounds) spent the night running and hiding from Marcy. Charlotte (the nosy, mouthy, redhead) wouldn't get closer than 10 feet to Marcy. Frog (the smallest of my three) arched her back and hissed every time she say Marcy. Marcy decided that she liked it behind the entertainment center.

Night 2. The terrible trio decided that if they ignored her, she would go away. (Yeah, right!) Marcy spent the night crying.

Hopefully they will all get over themselves soon. Sleep deprevation is not my friend.

BTW, what was I thinking?

It's almost the weekend.

2009-05-28T12:42:00.001-05:00

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It's Alive!

2009-05-27T16:43:00.001-05:00

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OK, I'm not quite that bad. Will be back soon to update you all.

Welcome to my world!

2009-05-12T11:51:00.000-05:00

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Music Monday

2009-05-11T14:14:00.003-05:00

The dangers of karaoke. This weekend I was playing with some karaoke discs that I just got. One of the discs had Lee Ann Womack's "Last Call" on it. After trying LC out a couple of times, decided to see what else was on the disc. Came across this song, I've never heard it, but (1) I want to and (2) I want to try it at karaoke. The trouble I get myself into....

"Invisibly Shaken" by Rodney Atkins

My friends say they're proud of me
For taking our breakup so casually
But they don't see what lies beneath my smile
It appears that I'm okay
And I moved on when you walked away
But the truth is since you said goodbye

[Chorus]

I'm invisibly shaken and quietly breakin'
Desperately takin' one breath at a time
Beneath this composure I know it's over
Baby I'm dying cause you can't be mine
But I will never show the toll it's taking
Cause I'm invisibly shaken

If it looks like I don't care
It's not killing me seeing you here
And hearing you say you want to try us again
Believe me it ain't easy being this cool
But too many times girl I've been your fool
And I know I'd just end up here again

[Chorus]

Invisibly shaken and quietly breakin'
Desperately takin' one breath at a time
Beneath this composure I know it's over
But baby I'm dying cause you can't be mine
But I will never show the toll it's taking
Cause I'm invisibly shaken

Baby I'm dying cause you can't be mine
But I will never show the toll it's taking
Cause I'm invisibly shaken

It's a Bird! It's a Plane!

2009-05-08T10:30:00.003-05:00

It's Superklutz!
My mother will tell you that Grace has never been my middle name.
Yesterday was proof of that.
Managed to fall up the stairs at work. Scrapped up my knee, bruised my arm, and wrenched my back. Didn't spill the hot chocolate I was carrying (ok, slopped some, thankfully the cup had a lid on it).
Get back to my desk and manage to shut my finger in a drawer. Didn't swear too loud.
Tripped over "Fat Cat" last night and wrenched my back again. OK, this time I did swear rather loudly.
Today has got to be better. Right?

Cougar Alert!

2009-05-04T17:25:00.003-05:00

It's never dull when A and I go out together. Friday night was no exception.
This time we were called "cougars" by a younger gentleman (ok - so he was probably my son's age). The funny part - him and his buddies are the ones that started the conversation, we had just arrived at the bar and were getting our first beverages of the evening. They just kept reappearing.
The question is, should we be flattered or insulted?

Monday Madness....

2009-05-04T11:02:00.002-05:00

see more dog and puppy pictures

And how was your weekend?

2009-05-03T22:22:00.000-05:00

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OMG!

2009-04-30T11:02:00.003-05:00

I go to the state fair.
I go to the free bandshells. (I have seen some great acts there.)
Might have to make an exception this year.
Ms. V may have to make a trip to go with me.

Kelly Clarkson is playing at the Minnesota State Fair this year.

This one's for Ali!

2009-04-27T15:57:00.000-05:00

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To the family of J.

2009-04-27T11:17:00.001-05:00

It will be the little things
that you will remember,
the quiet moments,
the smiles, the laughter.
And although it may seem
hard right now,
it will be the memories
of these little things
that help to push
away the pain
and bring the smiles
back again.

What year is it????

2009-04-24T16:23:00.003-05:00

Yes, V, it's another quiz. Was hoping it would slow my brain down a bit. Yeah right!

You Belong in 1977

Bold and brash, you take life by the horns. Whether you're partying or protesting, you give it your all!

What Year Do You Belong In?

Ready or Not...

2009-04-24T11:18:00.003-05:00

I'm open for business!
My Booking and Promotions business cards arrived yesterday.
Got my first client last night.
Today, making a list of the different venues I want to talk to.
Hang on to your hats.

Just a Thought

2009-04-22T12:07:00.003-05:00

My thoughts are free to go anywhere, but it's surprising how often they head in your direction. ~Author Unknown

I think about you constantly, whether it's with my mind or my heart. ~Albany Bach Reid

Gave up...

2009-04-22T11:07:00.002-05:00

I've been trying to avoid the quizes for a bit....but this one got me, so had to share.

You Are Somewhat Sexy

While you may not be the sexiest person in the world, you have your sexy moments.

You sometimes carry yourself well, and it gets you a lot of attention.

You have a lot of sex appeal ... as long as you remain confident, friendly, and adventurous.

The only times you seem unsexy are when you lose your confidence or sense of adventure.

How You Are Sexy

You are secure in social situations, and you definitely have a confident vibe. And that's very sexy.

You are flirtatious and fun with most people. You know how to keep things light, friendly, and sexy.

How You Are Not Sexy

You aren't too happy with your looks, and it definitely shows. You're never going to be sexy if you don't believe it yourself!

While your look may suit you, people are getting tired of it... and that's not sexy. Why not change it up?

Are You Sexy?

Memory Kicked In...

2009-04-21T15:23:00.004-05:00

Another song that I sang last night.....Mama Mia (again, not my idea - THANKS Roger!)

Another song that I vetoed (because I couldn't remember it)....My Baby Thinks He's a Train by Rosanne Cash. Roger assigned me to go home and listen to her greatest hits. Like I need additional homework.

Annie - I'm planning to look up the PPM song when I get a chance (can't do it on my work computer).

Ms. V - When you going to pack up the troops and head this way. Seems I'm at karaoke at least a couple of times a week. And I'm sure the border patrol won't look at you like you're insane when you explain to them why you are entering the states. :)

OK - back to work...I'll be back if my memory kicks in again.

What happens....

2009-04-21T12:37:00.003-05:00

...when it's a night with few singers at karaoke?
If you are one of those few singers, you get to sing more than usual.
If Roger is hosting the show, you sing songs that you didn't sign up for....things like Puff the Magix Dragon (this was after I vetoed a song I'd never even heard of that he wanted me to do - "I Dig Rock and Roll" by Peter Paul and Mary?).
If a non-singer requests for someone to do Ring of Fire, a mini tribute breaks out and all the singers end up doing a Johnny Cash song, or two. I did Folsom Prison Blues (not my idea) and One Piece at a Time (ok, this one was my idea).
What else did I end up singing....Seven Year Ache, Break Down Here, California Dreamin' (with Geri singing harmonies), Ballroom Blitz, Stop Draggin' My Heart Around (with Roger as Tom Petty), and Kerosene. Think I'm forgetting something, but not sure what.
And how was your Monday evening?

Counting Down...

2009-04-17T14:58:00.001-05:00

Gates open at 7 p.m. for the Sugarland concert.
To tide me over.....

Artist: Sugarland
Song: It Happens
Album: Love On The Inside

Missed my alarm clock ringing
Woke up, telephone screaming
Boss man singing his same old song
Rolled in late about an hour
no cup of coffee, no shower
Walk of shame with two different shoes on

Now it's poor me, why me, oh me, boring
The same old worn out, blah, blah story
There's no good explanation for it at all

Chorus:
Ain't no rhyme or reason
No complicated meaning
Ain't no need to over-think it
Let go, laughing
Life don't go quite like you planned it
We try so hard to understand it
The irrefutable, indisputable fact is
It happens

My trusty-rusty had a flat
I borrowed my neighbors Cadillac
"I'll be right back," going down to Wally World
That yellowed light turned red too quickly
Knew that truck the moment it hit me
Out stepped my ex and his new girl
("Sorry 'bout your neck baby")

But it's poor me, why me, oh me, boring
The same old worn out, blah, blah story
There's no good explanation for it at all

Repeat Chorus twice

Yeah, the irrefutable, indisputable, absoluteable, totally beautiful fact is...pshhhhh, it happens

'Nuff Said

2009-04-13T12:37:00.001-05:00

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How old are you?

2009-04-10T11:02:00.000-05:00

Your Body is 43 Years Old

Your body is exactly as old as it should be.

You're taking fairly good care of yourself, but you could be doing a better job.

Keep eating well and exercising. And if you're not doing this already, it's time get started.

Minimize your bad habits. They may be fun, but they eat years off your life!

How Old Is Your Body?

Forgotten...

2009-04-09T11:31:00.005-05:00

In the insanity that has been my life the last couple of weeks, forgot to post a few things.

1)Grades are in for winter quarter.
Music Fundamentals -- A Couldn't have done it without my music tutor. Thank you K! (An honorable mention also to R...your methods had me laughing, but helped me relax when it came to the final exam.)
Business Math -- A
I have a 4.0 cumulative grade point average!
2)Went to Green Bay last weekend to see ex #2's kids. His daughter competed in a French Forensics competition. Didn't understand a word, but caught the gist of their skit. Her team is going to state. Congrats E!
3)Spring quarter started this week. MS Office Professional II, Business Law, and Entertainment Networking and Self Promotion.
4)Singing tonight in round 2 of the Sing Minnesota competition. Competing against ex #2. Will let you know if I advance.

Think that's all for now.

OOPS! Almost forgot. I actually did get some stitching done. Will post a picture of my portion of Mary's seasonal rr if I find time to get on line at home (that isn't taken up with school work).

The ABCs of Me

2009-04-07T16:38:00.004-05:00

A - accountant by day
B - Bachelors in Business Management - the degree I'm working on
C - cats - I share my home with three of them
D - dancing
E - enough!
F - family
G - glasses
H - heart
I - indecisive (at times)
J - Junior (a.k.a. FatCat)
K - karaoke
L - love
M - music
N - needlework
O - opinionated
P - passionate
Q - quiet
R - romantic
S - school
T - TK - my baby boy
U - unusual
V - Vikings
W - waitressed for over 5 years
X - xtrodinary
Y - young at heart
Z - Zack - favorite singer/songwriter

How'd I do?

2009-04-06T17:17:00.002-05:00

Back on February 11th, I made my predictions for the Academy of Country Music awards. The show was last night. So, how'd I do? Out of the 12 categories I predicted, I only got 3 correct. (I must be losing my touch.)
So, how'd you do?

Forgot How Much I Loved This Singer/Songwriter

2009-04-03T10:40:00.002-05:00

Was flipping stations on my way into work this morning and heard a song I haven't heard in a few years....

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Heat Trouble - Steve Wariner

You're givin' me heart trouble
Never had a lover
Ever play with my heart this way
You're a regular heartache

You're givin' me heart trouble
You tell me that you want me
Then you turn around and turn me away

You're hot and you're cold
You say yes and then no
I can't get no relief
You're heart trouble to me

Since you laid your temptin' eyes upon me
My life's been one long and sleepless night
Some nights I spend lovin' you
And some nights I'm just tossin' and turnin' blue

You're givin' me heart trouble
Never had a lover
Ever play with my heart this way
You're a regular heartache

You're givin' me heart trouble
You tell me that you want me
Then you turn around and turn me away

You're hot and you're cold
You say yes and then no
I can't get no relief
You're heart trouble to me

When I get my nerve up to tell you goodbye
Just one kiss and you change my point of view
Still I can't help but wonder
How many others are under the spell I'm under

You're givin' me heart trouble
Never had a lover
Ever play with my heart this way
You're a regular heartache

You're givin' me heart trouble
You tell me that you want me
Then you turn around and turn me away

You're hot and you're cold
You say yes and then no
I can't get no relief
You're heart trouble to me

You're givin' me heart trouble
You're givin' me heart trouble
You're givin' me heart trouble

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hmmm....wonder if they have this song at karaoke?