Balancing Act

What the Duck

2011-02-28T21:21:00.002-05:00

My power went out about midnight last night. When I left for work this morning, it still wasn't back on. (that's right - try putting on eyeliner and concealer in the glow of eight flickering tea lights...)

And, while I couldn't turn my TV on at 2:30 am, I realized I didn't need it. It turns out there was an episode of Cops playing right outside my bedroom window!

I had finally fallen back asleep after a good hour of laying in bed worrying about my lack of electricity. And, my lack of white noise thanks to my fan... Then, I was ripped out of my sweet, silent slumber by yells. Yes, someone was yelling. Outside. In a thunderstorm. Yelling loud enough that I could hear him over the actual thunder. OMG.

I had to investigate! I peered out my rain-covered window to witness a young man walking down the road in only jeans, a t-shirt and a red flannel shirt. Rain jacket - what's that? And, as he was walking, he was yelling. It sounded something like this: (*words changed for the conservative and holy...)

What the duck!!!!!! What the duck is happening!?!?!?! Duck this!!!!! What the duck!!!!

Seriously? A crazy man screaming bloody murder in the middle of an apartment complex in a thunder and lightening storm in the middle of the night?? Awesome!

Then the cops showed up. "Bad boys, bad boys, whatcha gonna do!?" One of my neighbors must have been more annoyed than intrigued by this young man's antics... The cops shut him up, calmed him down and made a big production with their flashy lights and neon rain slickers. And, then, they must have told him it was time to go home.

Because, before I knew it, there was a young woman in a parka with a fur lined hood (seriously, fur in a thunderstorm?) standing in the road, ready to escort her man home. And, she came prepared. With a garbage can lid. As they couple walked back to their building, I saw her sheilding her man from the torrential rain with the lid. You know, so he wouldn't get wet....

Um, did I mention he'd be out YELLING in the RAIN for over thirty minutes?!?! What the duck.

Obviously, idiots are attracted to idiots.

Hoosier 4 Life.

2011-01-14T09:30:00.002-05:00

I watched this video a few days ago. It made me laugh. And, it brought tears to my eyes because I long for Bloomington. When I was an undergrad, I had student season tickets every. single. year. I loved going to games!! (I won't even mention my heathen of a little sister who has only gone to a handful of games. One of them I took her to when she was in high school. No school spirit, I tell ya! Oh wait... I just mentioned it. Oh well!) And, there are countless stories surrounding my friends and me going to games. (...like the time the cops drove me and Emily home from Assembly Hall....) Heck, when I was on Homecoming Court, I was asked what my biggest regret from my fours years at IU was. My response: "I regret I've never been given the chance to run with the flags at the eight minute timeout." True story! (And I STILL didn't get to run with them!)

Now, I have a confession. This Hoosier gal that bleeds Cream and Crimson is going to a Purdue basketball game this weekend. And, I'm not even taking an easy ride up 65 to see the game in Lafayette. Nope! I'm driving across the country to go to the game. SIX HOURS IN THE CAR TO GO TO A PURDUE GAME!!! OH!! MY!! GAWD!! I just keep telling myself it's just a fun weekend roadtrip with an athletic event thrown in for shit and giggles. And, there is no way in heck I'm wearing gold and black.

Hoo-Hoo-Hoo- HOOSIERS!!!

ouch.

2011-01-12T22:26:00.003-05:00

A couple times a month, I mentor a group of kids who are Juniors at an "urban" high school in town. They're incredibly bright. Incredibly awesome. And, make me feel incredibly old. Case in point - below is a conversation between me and two of my mentees, D & K.

K: Dude, that show "How I Met Your Mother" is tight!
D: You know that guy who's, like, the "player" on that show? He's gay!
K: Yeah! I know!
Me: Oh, you mean Neil Patrick Harris?!
K: Yeah - that's him.
Me: Remember when he was on Doogie Howser?!?
D & K: **blank stares**

There's a whole generation that has never seen Doogie Howser M.D. And, I just tried to relate to them. FML.

Dating Tales of the Under- & Un- Employed

2011-01-07T18:00:00.000-05:00

I've been meaning to write this post for quite some time.... In fact, I think it's been building for years now.

We're all attracted to a certain "type" of person. I tend to like either really big guys with great smiles or really cut guys with a good sense of humor. I've dated them all. But, I'm beginning to realize that we attract certain types to us. The type who I seem to attract like a magnet? The ones without a stable job. I'm not wanting to sound like a shallow girl looking for her sugar daddy. I just need to describe how I dated a string of guys who either didn't work or didn't have a stable job.

There was the guy who held four different jobs while I dated him. Talk about a roller coaster.

There was the "financial planner" who couldn't build a client list and was constantly on "probation" by corporate. Last I heard, he was forced to move to the city where corporate headquarters is located and endure nine months of intensive training. (Sidenote: I have no idea if he finished his training. Nor do I care. He's a cheatin' asshole.)

There was the teacher who wasn't really a teacher. He was paid hourly - when school was in session. Which means he did not receive a paycheck during summer break. And, he constantly lamented about how broke he was. Pretty sure his good looks and boyish charm were some of the only reasons we lasted as long as we did (a summer. go figure.).

There was the guy I met in a bar. He was trained in laying tile. But... he was working a seasonal job as a landscaper for his buddy. Days it rained? He didn't work. Weeks without rain? No work as there were no lawns to be mowed.

My favorite under-/un- employed story comes from a guy I only went on one date with. We met online. He said he was a doctor on his profile. I meet him for a coffee. Turns out, he's an anesthesiologist. Scratch that - an unemployed anesthesiologist. He had quit his job.... to find himself.

I can only imagine the thoughts running through my mom's head every time I told her about a new guy I was dating:
Me: "Mom, I'm dating this new guy and he's great! So much fun to hang out with!"
Mom: "That's great, honey! I'm glad you're having fun. So, what does he do for a living?"

I would reply very enthusiastically about whatever oddball job the guy of the moment was holding down. I'm always the optimist... I'm sure she was rolling her eyes on the other end of the phone. Actually, it was my mom who brought to my attention the string of guys I'd dated who didn't really have a job. She even asked, "Honey, do you put 'have a big heart for those on hard times' in your dating profile?" Ha!

Thanks, Mom! Honestly - I needed that realization! And, I promise - I'm working on it.

Disclaimer: I'm in a great relationship with a great guy. And, he really likes his job. And, he's good at what he does. :)

Online.

2011-01-05T18:00:00.000-05:00

Let's face it. We're an online world. And, I'm no stranger to all that is the internet.

I check my email ALL. THE. TIME. online.

I post Facebook statuses frequently online.

I buy most of my gifts online.

I bank online. (Today, I bought some stock online.)

I search for recipes online.

I search for coupons online.

Heck, I even found my boyfriend online! (thanks, eharmony.com!)

Today, I tried something new. I signed up for Weight Watchers online. I have about fifteen pounds I'd like to lose. If I can get some encouragement via the web (and for a nominal fee), well then, I'll take it! Here's to counting points in 2011!

(P.S. - It's only the first day and already my cravings for some cheese are ridiculous. I'm a cheese addict.)
(P.P.S. - I stayed BELOW my points limit for the day!)

Rocky Mountain High

2011-01-03T21:19:00.003-05:00

I was driving West tonight. It was dark. The clouds were hanging low. They were illuminated from behind by the sun that had already left my little place in the world. And, my eyes tricked my mind into thinking there was a mountain range in front of me. Cue goosebumps. And, this feeling of content from deep within my heart.

I have always been enchanted by them. Mountains. Maybe that's where my soul needs to be. And my body needs to follow. But, how do I get there? What am I willing to give up in order to feel that kind of contentedness more often?

Bigfoot

2010-09-16T14:47:00.003-04:00

As I drove down Fall Creek this morning, this hunk of metal and rubber greeted my on the side of the road, waving an American flag. I couldn't help but smile - and laugh out loud! You don't see stuff this memorable EVERY day. Thank goodness I pass the state fairgrounds on my drive in...

Bus Stops

2010-09-15T21:48:00.002-04:00

I started working Downtown almost four years ago. And, while I love it, there is one part of working Downtown that I still find uncomfortable. The bus stops. They're big, crowded, noisy, dirty, smokey. Ugh.

So, when I walk to meetings, I will cross streets based on which route will take me past the least amount of bus stops. It may take a few extra footsteps, but it eases my bus stop anxiety. However, today, I had no choice but to walk through a bus stop. And, not just any bus stop, one of the biggest ones in town - it's a block long!!

Here's what I encountered as I walked on through the big ol' bus stop:
- Small child ran into me
- Almost tripped on some guy's bike
- Smelled somebody smoking weed
- Had to side step (onto a grate!) for a group of boys wearing their shorts below their butts. I guess that whole "ladies first" rule doesn't apply at bus stops
- Had a girl ash her cigarette on my shoe!!! (she didn't even notice...)

OMFG! Really? I finally figured out why I don't like the bus stops - they're oozing with rudeness! (and smoke!)

I'm back to taking the long way....

Fetus Fun

2010-09-07T21:20:00.005-04:00

So, a friend of mine is pregnant. It's very exciting! And, she signed up to get those weekly emails that tell her what size the baby (a.k.a the fetus) is as she progresses through the pregnancy. Typically, these emails will compare the fetus to some time of produce. Your baby is the size of a walnut! Your baby is the size of an apple! Your baby is the size of a seedless watermelon! Ahh technology....

Anywho, a couple weeks ago, she received her email, opened it up, read the produce comparison and just didn't know what to think. Because it said... "Your baby is the size of an English hothouse cucumber!" WTH?!?

Of course - we had to Google an English hothouse cucumber. Basically, it's an extra long cucumber (roughly 14 inches). I'm shocked by this. I really thought babies, at six months in, would be... well, rounder! And, of course, I had to mention this to my mom. In all her "Mom" wisdom, she explains to me that babies grow in length first, and put on weight towards the end.

Fine. But, nature creeps me out. I all of a sudden begin thinking that my friend is pregnant with one of those creepy creatures that lived outside Ursula's lair in The Little Mermaid. I know this isn't true, but still!!!

Fast forward to the evening, when I'm popping by the grocery store to pick up a few things for dinner. I'm grabbing some tomatoes when I see..... (on sale of course!)..... hothouse cumbers! Extra long cucumbers in! the! flesh! Yes, I bought one. There was no way I was going to pass up the chance to show my friend a real, live cucumber!

Except, I couldn't just bring a cucumber to show her. So, I took some time to give it some personality...

Yes. I dressed the cucumber up as a baby. And it was awesome!!

Why I Could Join the Army

2010-08-31T22:05:00.004-04:00

Basic Training.

Less sit-ups and long runs? More yoga and pilates? If it wasn't for the guns, I could do this! (commence your snickering now)

New York Times Article Here

where do I start?

2010-08-31T20:51:00.005-04:00

Alright, I'm going to put it all on the table. This summer has been no "summer of love" in my book. Far from it.

First, it began with my ex letting me know he was getting engaged - just two months after he said he still loved me and asked if I was sure I didn't want to be with him. (I was sure.) While I didn't feel any real loss, it was a crushing blow. He was moving forward and I wasn't. [Side note: Someone in his family reached out to me asking if I had any pictures I could pass along for his wedding slide show. WTH?]

Second, I found out I was cheated on. Not with one other girl. Not with two other girls. But, with at least THREE other girls. That's right, I had been dating a male slut and was oblivious to it.

Last, but definitely not least, I was driving home from work one Tuesday to meet my seemingly sweet, seemingly caring boyfriend who had been in my life for a bit. And, that's when he completely blindsided me and dumped me. On. The. Phone! And, without an actual reason. Actually, he had a reason: "I think we're both awesome. I just don't think we're awesome together." Who knew I had been living an episode of Saved by the Bell this whole time?!?!

I can only hope that bad things really do come in threes and that I'm done having my heart broken for awhile. (huge, huge, huge amounts of hope!) I also hope that I'm done picking assholes to date. I mean it. Damn!

Here's to a new season. And, to the cocktails that have helped to numb the pain this summer.

Good riddance, douche bags.

they are the reason I smile

2010-08-21T10:41:00.004-04:00

I'd be lying if I didn't say it was a tough week. A VERY tough week that involved a lot of tears, self-reflection and uncomfortable feelings. But, this week also allowed me to see how lucky I am. Especially for the amazing women I have in my life.

My mom. Who answered the phone when I called at midnight and calmed me down. And, encouraged me to make tea while I talked to her.

My sister. Who showed up in Indy, in all her bohemian glory, and laughed with me in a queit, sunlit cafe. And then we went shoe shopping!

My friends. The friends that show up with cookies and sprinkle cuss words into the conversation when needed. The friends who can spend lazy afternoons simply laughing and telling stories. The friends whose pictures line my mantle. Our lives exist together in this weird kind of connectivity - the connectivity only girl friends can have.

This picture is a perfect example of this friendship. Laughing and loving each others company. (photo courtesy of Miss Darcie Lane)

I'm blessed. I know it.

Welcome back.

2010-08-17T23:19:00.004-04:00

Hurting, hurting.
Looking for the silver lining.
Vision crowded by my emotions.
What did I do wrong?
What is my flaw? My flaws?
Wishing for the pain to numb.
Wishing for sleep.
Wishing someone was here to hold me.
Wishing for things that aren't here. That I can't fix.
Hurting, hurting.
Back to "this place" again.

Welcome back.

There's Your Sign!

2010-07-15T12:32:00.002-04:00

I just rode up in the elevator with two adorable old guys. They reminded me of a much nicer version of these two lovelies from the Muppets.

On the elevator ride up, they were discussing what each of them had bought for lunch (we were all coming from the Bistro....). One guy had soup and a banana. The other gentleman had soup, a "tiny tuna sandwich" (his descriptor words, not mine) and some jello. So stinkin' cute. But.... what's the common denominator with these foods? They're all soft. smushy. easy to eat.

Bless their hearts. And their "old man" teeth.

Common Denominator in Hatred

2010-05-20T10:05:00.004-04:00

I've never met a single person who likes Canadian Geese. Not a one. (If you're that rare fella who does, PLEASE share with the world why you do...)

One of my favorite bloggers, MooshInIndy, wrote a post about the Canadian Geese that are currently messing up her peaceful world.

Her post has inspired me to share an email that I received from my mom earlier this week. But, before hilarity ensues, let me give you a little background:

My parents live on a lake (a lake that just happens to be the last to freeze in the area and is therefore a mecca for all things Canadian Geese), and my mom's mission for the past several years has been to keep the geese out of her yard, and most importantly, her flower beds. She claims she loves nature, but she loves her garden more. I don't blame her - the geese that live on their lake are OBNOXIOUS.

For Mother's Day a couple years ago, my brother got her some "equipment" to assist her in scaring the geese. Note: she doesn't want to kill them (it's illegal!), she just wants to scare them so they jump back into the lake and out of her yard. It's also turned out to be a great way for her to get some aggression out... fyi.

Anywho, my brother and I received the following email this week. I really hope a neighbor saw this... (and took pictures!)

Subject:
No more BB gun!

Body:

I've put the bb rifle in the garage for good. In my continuing war against the geese in the yard, I wounded (didn't kill!) one.

I thought I just popped it in the butt, but it started flailing around in the water. It's mate and one baby started making all this ruckus as did the other pair and their 10 babies. I watched for as long as I could, hoping it was just stunned and would recover.

It wasn't looking good and I didn't want it to drown - I'd already seen that once before and felt awful - so I decided to rescue it. I put on Evan's big yellow rain overalls and got in the lake. I started wading out to the wounded goose and it's trying to get away and sticking out its big tongue at me. Then, it's mate came charging across the lake at me with its wings spread out and hissing. There was a lot of flailing around at this point by me and the geese! I tried to throw a towel over it but it just threw it off.

I finally lifted it up and got it up in the yard (hope you see the irony in this) and it flopped around a bit and went and hid under the grill. BTW - the lake is freezing!

I called the animal hospital but she said they didn't treat adult geese. I asked what to do and she said to give it food like you'd feed farm animals. Uh, I don't have any. So, I crushed up some crackers and got out some fresh spinich and put it in a bowl.

Right now the big thing is under the lilacs, but it is up and walking so maybe I did just stun it.

If it's gone by the time Dad gets home, I'm not going to say a word about it. If it's still there, I guess I'll have to fess up.

I could never be a real hunter.

Love you both,

Mom
xoxoxoxox

Ohmigosh, I love that woman!

(PS - The goose is fine. It was just stunned. Once it came to its senses, it waddled back into the lake...)

Moving On

2010-05-11T15:39:00.002-04:00

This past Saturday, two guys I used to date proposed to their girlfriends. One guy I dated casually. I'll call him D.D.L.E. The other was a lot more serious. I'll call him H.B.F. I witnessed one of the engagements on tv of all places. I'm really, really happy for him. The other one? He told me about it (via text!) before he proposed. He wanted me to be the first to know. Awkward? Yes. Am I overjoyed? Not really. More like overcome with odd emotions.

But, we all deserve the chance to move on. HBF especially. And, me too.

A Girl's Life

2010-04-15T16:12:00.001-04:00

The Current Contents of My Work Bag:
- 2010 Agenda (my life!!!)
- Folder with important papers
- Pens
- Nail File
- Allergy Medicine
- Spanx
- Black patent flats
- Coupon Book
- Granola Bar

It's no longer a work bag. It's a female survival bag!!!

Lord Give Me Strength

2010-04-06T11:10:00.002-04:00

I've been dating a guy on and off for a little over a year. And, I've had my suspicions... I should have trusted my gut. Last night, I met "he who shall not be named"'s girlfriend. Ouch. It was hard to hear. What was harder was having to tell her that her boyfriend has been unfaithful. For over a year. Ouch.

I feel completely taken advantage of. Horrible. Pissed about it. Shitty. Hurt.

However, this quote came through my inbox today:

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson

I'm strong to the core. This is just another one of life's speed bumps. And, I feel good knowing that karma is a bitch...

Disney Princess....Mean Girls

2010-03-05T09:02:00.004-05:00

A friend sent this smart lil' clip to me. The Disney Princesses (Cinderella 4-eva!) acting as the main characters from Mean Girls. Huh-larious!!!

Formal Desires

2010-03-03T21:42:00.002-05:00

Right now, I can count three formal events on my calendar for 2010. And, due to the nature of the events, I think I can get away with the same gown for each event (obviously accessorized differently! duh!). Besides, doing this will save me some serious cash, which I need right now.

So, I popped into Macy's on my way home from pilates today to see if they had what I was looking for. I walked in the store and start heading for the dress department. But, guess where I ended up? (Mom - Seriously. Take a second and guess. You'll probably get it right...) The coat department! Full of lovely coats with..... 75% off signs looking like glowing stars above them. I really think I heard angels singing as I happened upon this beautiful sight!

Quick backstory: I love outerwear. Pea coats. Dress coats. Puffy coats. Jackets. Fleeces. Scarves. Hats. Mittens. Etc. (gawsh - this is actually a POSITIVE to me living in Indiana!!! Hooray!!!) And, I'm drawn to them like a fly to a light.

Couple that with a sale and you probably already know the end to this story: I have a gorgeous, cream, Kenneth Cole coat hanging in my closet. And, I got it for a steal!

The dress? Well, their selection sucked. Which gave me even more reason to buy a coat tonight. I'll go dress shopping later...

FML

2010-02-24T11:39:00.002-05:00

My Girl Scout cookies got delivered about a week and a half ago. A day after I finished off the last of the lemon creme cookies, this article shows up in the paper. I. Feel. Gross.

need to catch my breath

2010-02-18T21:15:00.002-05:00

The past four days, I've unintentionally exhausted myself. Every. Single. Day. I go-go-go for about fourteen hours straight. Finally come home. And I become worthless. Today? I woke up at 4:30am. Was out the door by 6:30am. Got home at 8:30pm. And, I don't think I'll be able to get off this couch for three weeks. (Plus - my core muscles are killing me due to a great pilates class last night. Just another reason for me to not pry myself from horizontal position.) I need to slow down. Big time.

Oh, and, thinking about pilates... Last night, the instructor kept looking at me and saying "Relax your shoulders! Relax your shoulders!" It sounded familiar. My masseuse the last time I got a massage got on me for not being able to relax my shoulders either. As my mom said, "You get in naturally, honey. I wear my shoulders like a pair of earrings."

One of these days I'll learn the art of relaxation...

Geeked Out

2010-02-09T21:50:00.002-05:00

Today, I accomplished something I fretted over for weeks. Today, I made a lot of people proud and happy, including myself. Today, I realized the beauty that lies behind the frustration of collaboration. Today, I was incredibly impressed by regular people doing really. awesome. things. for our better good.

Today was a good day.

Even the dinner celebration - that was just as much of a collaboration as the luncheon...

Rollercoaster...

2010-01-06T22:38:00.002-05:00

Have you ever gone through those times where one day you're incredibly frustrated, the next day seems like the best! day! ever! and then the next day is all frustration and exhaustion??? Oh, 2010 - you've brought me so many emotions already! Thanks?

I started my New Year's Resolution early this year

2009-12-22T13:04:00.003-05:00

People say that when you let other people know about a personal goal, you're more apt to accomplish it. So here's my 2010 New Year's Resolution (which I've been working on for a few weeks now):

I will learn to loosen up more and not get bogged down by details.

There. I have made this public. And, I'm really trying, much to the relief of my friends and family who must get totally exhausted by my over-scheduling and over-analyzing. Heck, it exhausts me!

But, last night my resolution hit a hiccup. How, must you ask, can this happen before the New Year even graces us with its presence?? Because, at 3am, in the dark, without my glasses on, I was making a list. A list that involved things like name tags, pencils and another list I needed to make when I got to work.

Sick.

Honestly, I feel like my subconscious is slyly working against me. I mean, it's waking me up in the middle of the night and encouraging me to make a list!!! Without my permission.

Dear Subconscious: I'm pissed at you. And, while we're at it, stop with the crazy dreams. I'm sick and tired of logging onto dreammoods.com every morning trying to decipher why I would dream about gerbils or tornadoes or swim lessons. Pissed.

I will continue to work on accomplishing my resolution. Baby steps. Itty, bitty baby steps. Until then, just bear with me...

Oh - one bright point?!?! My handwriting on the list that I wrote at 3am. In the dark. Without my glasses??? BEAUTIFUL!!! Seriously. The letter spacing is impeccable. I'm that good.

of Turkey Trots and DNR forms

2009-12-02T20:32:00.003-05:00

How was your Thanksgiving? Full of football and turkey and funny family stories? That's sweet. No offense, but I bet your Thanksgiving can't hold a candle to my Turkey Day.

The day started off EARLY. Momma and I had this fun idea that we would run the Valpo Turkey Trot 5K on Thursday morning. I woke up. Got dressed. Looked out the window. Changed my outfit. It was raining. And sleeting. And snowing. Winter Mess Trifecta! But, we did it anyways. Oh, quick side note? I'm not a runner. Nor did a "train" to run a 5K. My gym routine consists of kickboxing, lifting weights and reading Health magazine on the elliptical. I didn't start the race running, but a half mile into the race, I had stepped in two huge puddles and the sleet was crusting around my eyelashes. So I ran. I ran just to get the thing over with. At the end of the race, my mom comes up to me and says, "Alane. You're a machine. I can't believe you ran that whole thing!" She failed to mention I was pale as a ghost and she was worried I was going to pass out.

(PS: For all you runners out there, I know that a 5K is practically nothing to you. Stop snickering. I had not physically or mentally prepared myself to run three miles when I woke up that morning. Get over yourself.)

Either way, after the race, I grabbed a granola bar, tripped all over my soaking wet pants, sloshed around in my wet socks and patiently waited for my mom to claim her medal for placing third in her age group. (You're welcome, Momma.)

But, we did it!

Okay, okay. So some of you might have run a similar race in your home town on Thanksgiving morning. You're probably thinking, "What? Why was her Turkey Day that special? I ran a race too."

Here it is: My 83 year old grandma had my family sign and witness her Do Not Resuscitate form on Thanksgiving. Yep. True story. It was awkward. And, it made our "Litany of Thanksgivings" around the table much more poignant this year. MUCH more.

Bless her heart. All she had to say about it was, "Well, I'd rather have you sign it at Thanksgiving as opposed to Christmas." Well, that, and jokingly accusing my brother of sending her to the grave early. But, that's why we love her!

Bring on the holidays!

schoolgirl crush

2009-11-20T09:34:00.004-05:00

I was watching the Today Show this morning (Matt Laurer... Swoon...), and there were all. these. screaming. girls. there to catch a glimpse of one of the Twilight stars.

I admit it. I have not read any of the Twilight books. (However, I would like to! Anyone have a copy they can share?) I have also not seen the movie. (planning on renting it...)

But these girls! Nuts! And, some of them were not girls. Some were full-grown women with teenage daughters of their own literally falling over themselves to get a picture of a seventeen year old boy who plays a werewolf. Really?

Then, I remembered the time I got all "teenage girl" as an adult... New Kids on the Block concert. June 28, 2009. My 26th Birthday.

Oh. My. God.

Two words: Jordan Knight

Hottie -bo -bottie. For real.

PS: Anyone remember the New Kids on the Block cartoon???? Hey-o!!!!

It's a Confusing Time to Be a Woman!

2009-11-20T09:13:00.003-05:00

Earlier this week, new guidelines were introduced in regards to breast cancer screenings. I've matured into a woman knowing that I'll need to get my first mammogram at age 40. The new guidelines are saying women can wait until they are 50 to get screened.

Then, this morning, it was reported that the American College of Obstetricians is advising women to wait until they are 21 until they get their first pap smear. Yeah... I got mine much earlier than that.

Whoa.

This is a lot of information. A lot of change. In one week. And, the response has been anything but passionate.

And, this should come as no surprise: I'm pretty passionate about this issue too. I know too many women who were diagnosed with breast cancer in their 20s, 30s and 40s. What if these women had not given themselves self exams or had a screening before they were 50? Would they be survivors today? Or victims?

And, let's be frank: I know and love A LOT of women who grappled with HPV in college. The majority of them being diagnosed with this before they were 21. If they had not been receiving annual pap smears since they were in high school, then what? Would they not have known they had HPV until they reached the legal drinking age? Would the HPV progressed into something not as easy to treat? Heck - at that point, some women would not even know who had infected them in the first place!

Yes, I know that it takes a lot of time for HPV to progress into cervical cancer, but there are a lot of benefits besides a cancer screening when it comes to your annual pap.

I'm a girl. I love and respect my girl parts. Both the top and the bottom. And, I know that the best way to keep me and my girl parts healthy is to be proactive and preventative. So, while I respect the new research, I'm sticking with the old guidelines. I'm still going to see my gyno every year. And, when I'm forty - my twins are going to be squished together between two metal plates.

These screenings are not fun. But, are they worth it? I'm sure of it.

35-34

2009-11-16T09:13:00.000-05:00

'Nuff Said

My Boys

2009-11-15T22:03:00.002-05:00

It's almost half time for this year's Colts-Patriots regular season match up. I hate this game. Every year. It's one of the only games where I feel a little less confident in my boys in blue than usual. And, for someone who is so even keeled when it comes to sports, it's surprising to some to hear my say really. mean. things. about the Patriots.

I remember crying after we beat the Patriots in 2005 because I was so happy. I also remember crying when we were beat by the Patriots. After the Colts beat the Patriots for the AFC Championship in 2007, I ran around in the snow only wearing underwear and a Peyton Manning jersey - I was THAT excited! (yes, mom. i know this was not a smart or healthy decision. but, it felt great at the time.) And, soon after that half-naked run, I went downtown to celebrate on the circle - wearing TWO jerseys and a smile (oh, and pants!).

This game always invokes a lot of emotion. Right now, we're down 10 points. I don't like it. I have this thing where I really need the Colts to be in the lead at half for me to feel good about the rest of the game. But, I know THIS game is the exception year after year.

And, knowing this gives me hope that we still have a chance. I'm going to be honest - I'm going to change jerseys at halftime, just in case it may help our chances.

See you on the flip side. GO COLTS!!!

Knock and the door shall be opened?

2009-11-12T23:34:00.002-05:00

I'm pretty bummed to find out I won't be getting the promotion I had been seeking. My three year anniversary of hard work just happens to fall at a really crappy time in my office. I'm disappointed, but not much I can do about it at this point.

On the other hand, I wrote Cover Girl about some faulty eyeliner I have been experiencing. They wrote me back and gave me a coupon for full compensation of said faulty eyeliner.

So, as the old saying goes: Knock, and the door shall be opened. Ask and you shall receive. Well, only sometimes....

Hopefully, the old saying of "every time a door is closed, a window opens" works in my favor.

Hope for the Holidays

2009-11-10T10:37:00.003-05:00

Typically, my office "adopts" a family each year for the holiday season. This year, we're going a bit of a different route: we're selecting children who don't have family - at least not in the traditional sense. Foster children. Children who have been neglected, abused and taken away from their parents. One little boy who's three younger brothers were adopted - yet he still moves from foster home to foster home.

Even during these tough economic times, I find it important to give back. I'm asking for golf clubs for Christmas. These kids are asking for shoes. It really puts life in perspective. While money is tight, a lot of us still have a lot to share.

If you're in Indiana, I encourage you to check out the Children's Bureau website and their Hope for the Holidays program. On the website, each of the children's case workers have written a short background on the child. I warn you - they are heartbreaking stories. But, they are moving. And, hopefully they encourage you to give a little bit extra this holiday season.

The Perfect Respite

2009-11-08T20:07:00.003-05:00

Central Indiana was blessed with amazing weather this weekend. 70 degrees and sunny both Saturday and Sunday. And, what do you do on a weekend in November that features the. most. perfect. weather? Tailgate.

The weekend focused around football. Bloomington on Saturday morning. Hanging out with some of my best friends and most of my family. Colts game today (close win!) followed by catching up on the back deck.

Perfect. I'm ready for the week now. Thank you, Mother Nature, for the wonderful gift.

Something to Look Forward To

2009-11-06T10:02:00.003-05:00

I booked a plane ticket to Florida yesterday. I'm going in January. While it seems far away now, I'm so thankful I have something to keep me going through the cold, nasty weather that's about to show its face. And, while the ultimate trip is a Summers' family vacation, a trip with Mom, Dad, Tom & Alice is going to be perfectl.

Here's what I have to look forward to: Reading by the pool. Walking the beach early in the morning. Seafood and Coronas. Look for the "green flash" when the sun sets. Flip flops. Sleeping with the windows open so the waves crashing can lull me to sleep (that hasn't happened since Myrtle Beach! many moons ago...). Tiki bars. Swimsuits. A break.

Been a long time.

2009-11-06T09:58:00.004-05:00

Been a long time, blog.... You and my journal are currently in a competition for who receives my thoughts. And, right now, the journal is winning. No offense to you - I just have so many thoughts that don't need to be shared with the world. (And, I don't need "some people" reading my missives about them....) Here's my holiday vow: I'll pay you some more attention!

twinkle toes

2009-05-28T16:38:00.001-04:00

I wore some really cute shoes to work today. And, I think every woman in my office commented on how cute they were. But, what I want to know is this: Did my hottie lunch date like the shoes???

a rainbow followed me home.

2009-05-26T20:04:00.003-04:00

The entire time I knew her, Grandma Alice lived in Colorado. I'm sure it's where my love affair of that state began.

They have the most beautiful rainbows in Colorado. The seem to jump from mountain top to mountain top, coaxing you to find the ends. Growing up, Grandma would send me pictures of Colorado rainbows that they would print in the newspaper. Envelopes full of newsprint rainbows! She also sent rainbow stickers, and I must admit, I still have some of those stickers. I just can't bear to give them up. They remind me of being six and sending penpal letters.

To me, Grandma Alice and rainbows go hand in hand. And, every time I see a rainbow, I know it's her, smiling down on me.

Today, I was driving home from work and worrying. Lots of worrying. I looked to my left and I saw it. I saw her. A beautiful, out of the blue, reaching across the sky rainbow. And I cried. Because I knew Grandma was there, watching me. Reminding me that this, too, shall pass.

I took a different way home tonight. I drove as far as I could following the rainbow on my left. That rainbow following me. And, I was comforted by the time I got home, just like she expected me to be.

Neglect

2009-05-14T07:23:00.002-04:00

Dear Blog: I have neglected you. I can make excuses about how work is CRAZY (remind me to link my other blog here...), how I've had out of town guests in for the past several weekends, or how it's May and my free time is spent at the track. But, I know you don't like excuses... So, my gift to you is this: A list of things I'm looking forward to in the next couple of months.

1. The Indianapolis 500 (live and in person!)
2. Country music concerts
3. My summer camp's 100th Anniversary Reunion Weekend
4. Spending some time on Flint Lake
5. My birthday!

With love (and apologies),
a.

Vegas: The Aftermath

2009-04-21T22:08:00.006-04:00

Vegas was an AMAZING trip. So. Much. Fun! But, I'm not going to lie, the adventure wore me out.

I'm sitting on the couch right now, feeling exhausted, congested and dealing only with half a voice. I keep squeaking when I talk. And, this morning, I could only sing half the Britney Spears song on my drive in because my poor throat couldn't hit the high notes.

But, my current state is a small sacrifice for the fun I had in Sin City. I came back with a great tan, great memories with my best friends, and some great pictures. (And - I didn't lose a single dollar!) I can't wait to go back! But, with all we did, I know there is so much I didn't get to see and experience. And, I'm convinced that depending on who you travel with, the trip will unfold in a completely different manner.

For instance, when you go to Vegas with five other ladies, the city is basically handed to you on a silver platter. We were on all sorts of lists for some of the hottest clubs. We hardly paid for any drinks. And, the dinner where the manager brought us all complimentary champagne and chocolate fondue? Swoon!!!!!! And while the nights were filled with clubs and glamour, the days were filled with poolside mai tais and suntan lotion. Again: swoon!!

I would love to go with a cute boy on a little one-on-one excursion. ;) It was decided on the plane ride black that Vegas would not be a romantic vacation. Vegas would be a SEXY vacation. Sign me up!

Another Vegas trip I'm looking forward to? December 2010. When my little sister (finally!) turns 21, we're going as a family! Oh. My. Gosh. I already know we'll laugh until our abs hurt on this vacation.

Is it bad that I've already looked at Vegas flights for Fall this year?? I'm ready to go!

Vegas, Baby!

2009-04-15T15:44:00.003-04:00

I'm off to Vegas tomorrow morning and meeting up with five of my best friends. Of the six of us, only one of us has ever been to this town of bright lights and low morals. Oh. My. Gosh. This is going to be so much fun!!

Wish me luck!

Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle... ARE YOU KIDDING ME!

2009-04-06T10:18:00.002-04:00

Yesterday afternoon, my friend and I drove up I65 all the way from Nashville to Louisville with the top down. (Yes, we did blast country music! And, yes, I did feel like I was in a Carrie Underwood music video!) But, by the time we got to Indianapolis, the 80 degree weather and bright sunshine were distant memories. Perfect weather was replaced by forty degree temperatures, strong winds, storms and the promise of snow in the morning. Oh, Indianapolis, you always seem to welcome me home with the most cheerful of weather....

At home that night, I got out the holiday decorations. And, if I had gone by the weather, I should have put up the Christmas decorations instead of the Easter decorations. Seriously - it feels like December outside! (Don't worry Momma - the faux-chocolate rabbit is perched on the mantel anxiously awaiting your arrival!)

And, as I walked out to my car this morning, I experienced the strange juxtaposition of sleet hitting my face while birds chirped in the trees. And, I swear, I heard one bird say to the other, "What the tweet is going on here!?!"

Vegas in 10 days!!!!!!!

Rolls of Wonder

2009-03-29T22:51:00.003-04:00

I love Naked Tchopstix. Damn good sushi. And, their Maui Roll is high up on my list of foods I crave (which includes Nick's Pizza and Schoop's hashbrowns). I don't know who came up with the idea to include asparagus and mango in a sushi roll, but I'm glad they did!

Oh, and their martinis aren't bad either....

Reason #8,392 I Love My Parents....

2009-03-28T18:43:00.004-04:00

If you're jealous of my parents, it's okay. I understand. I know they rock!

For example....

Currently, my parents are in the Keys on one of their "Empty Nester" vacations. On Friday, my dad calls me and directs me to the Hog's Breath website. "Click on the HogCam!" he excitedly says. I click, I wait a few seconds, and then I see my mom and dad on the screen, waving into a webcam located in the bar. I got so excited, I waved back!

There they were, wearing cute "vacation" clothes, drinking beer and calling their kids to gloat about how good of a time they were having. And, I love them for it.

(*The picture is from another "Empty Nester" trip my parents took a few months ago. They have yet to share the Key West photos with me....)

Meridian Kessler is going to the dogs!

2009-03-27T10:43:00.004-04:00

Driving through the Meridian Kessler neighborhood this morning, I started noticing a pattern.

Every block or so, I saw someone (usually dressed in "athletic attire") walking not one, but two or more dogs along the sidewalks lining the perfectly manicured lawns. And, more often than not, the dogs were of the same breed! There was the man walking two miniature dachshunds while carrying his baby on his back. Or the lady walking three (three!) yorkies as she "hiked" up Penn.

And then, there's the quintessential Meridian Kessler dog: the gold retriever. Who hasn't seen the young couple pushing a stroller and walking their two goldens as they make their way down to Patachou for Sunday brunch?

So, what is it about Meridian Kessler that causes people to get so dog-gone crazy about dogs?

Star Sighting!

2009-03-09T23:02:00.004-04:00

I spent Saturday night in Louisville with the girls - we all desperately needed a change of scenery and L'ville seemed like a great place to go.

The weather was just like Spring weather should be - warm enough that you don't need a jacket but with a slight breeze still keeping you on your toes.

We're sitting on the patio of a bar late night people watching (saw some AWFUL outfits) and taking Obama shots (shot of bacardi o dropped in a glass of red bull followed by some silly dance - I totally bought into the whole thing) provided to us by some cute boys from Michigan. And, all of a sudden, who comes stolling down the street???

Ron White!!!! (If you're like everyone else on Fourth Street, and don't know who he is, check him out here: Ron White)

I got really excited, ran down the street yelling, "Ron White! Ron White!" and had my girls take a picture of me and him! It was a GREAT way to end the night! Thank you, Louisville!

Robins!

2009-03-05T22:11:00.001-05:00

*UPDATE*

I saw a whole bunch of robins today. And, this time, I believed in them. Spring is so, so close!

LaneyinIndy

2009-03-03T20:29:00.002-05:00

Oh boy - I signed up for twitter today. And, I have no idea what I'm doing!

I do know that I am "following" Levar Burton and I DO plan on somehow reminiscing with him about the time we sang the Reading Rainbow theme song together at the Snakepit Ball and I cried. Best fifteen seconds EVER!

Okay - so if you want to "follow" me, I can be found on twitter at: LaneyinIndy

Wish me luck!

Yum!

2009-02-27T16:36:00.005-05:00

I had the most amazing sandwich at lunch today. I've been reading about R Bistro in different Indy blogs, and finally had the chance to try it out myself.

Just some background: I have an obsessive love of peanut butter. I eat it on everything and with everything! So, when I saw a Peanut Butter and Banana Panini on the menu, I swooned. This decadent little panini-that-could had crunchy peanut butter, an entire banana, watercress and thinly sliced apples nestled between two slices of soft bread. I don't even know what watercress is! But damn, it was good!

And there you have it, an ode to a peanut butter sandwich.

pantyhose optional

2009-02-24T20:50:00.004-05:00

I spent this morning ruffling through my nightgowns/sports bras/pantyhose drawer (yes - all three of those types of items are in one drawer. it's a big drawer) trying to find a pair of pantyhose that didn't have a run in them or make me look like a ghost from the thigh down.

Ohmigosh - I HATE pantyhose. I run the risk of tearing them every time I put them on. And, for some reason, I have not mastered the ladylike way of putting hose on - two legs at one time? How is this possible? (Thank goodness for thigh highs!!) And, by the time I get home at the end of the day, I guess I'm so delirious from having to wear pantyhose all day, that I don't even notice there is a run in them and they wind up back in my nightgowns/sports bras/pantyhose drawer.

I would like to add that tights are totally okay by me. Since they're thicker, they don't rip as easily, and therefore, are easier to put on.

With all that said, I was late to work today because I was fighting with pantyhose for a good part of my morning. Ugh. Then, because I was rushing, I just threw a coat on and walked out of my place. It wasn't until I was in the elevator (with mirrored interior doors) on my way up to my office that I realized my coat was longer than my dress. All you could see on me was my coat, my pantyhose and my tall boots. No big deal - or so I thought...

As I walked to lunch today, I caught people giving me double takes. Time after time, as I walked down Penn, people were giving me second looks. Yes - I understand that it may have looked like I was only wearing a coat, pantyhose and boots, but come on! What? Like I went to work naked with only hose and boots on? Yeah right!

And, as I walked to happy hour today, and continued to get second looks, all I could do was laugh.

I am SO looking forward to warmer weather where pantyhose (and a coat!) are optional.

Now THIS is church!

2009-02-22T23:18:00.002-05:00

A neat, new service, camaraderie, pizza & beer (!) and Red Carpet on the tv? I think I am really starting to like this church! I'm glad I made the decision to start going back - I just didn't know I'd be welcomed so soon.

Frankfort, Indiana

2009-02-22T20:58:00.002-05:00

Eight years after I wore a pink ballgown and white satin gloves at the 2001 Valparaiso's Junior Miss, I finally made it down to Frankfort, Indiana for the Indiana's Junior Miss competition. And, I'd like to say that things haven't changed much. The girls still do a fitness routine and smile at the judges as they do push ups on stage (so awkward!) and then sway back in forth during the poise and presence part at the end. I felt so fortunate to be invited. My dear friend Betsy was a judge at Saturday's competition. Her dad is president of the State Junior Miss Board. And, it's impressive how the entire town of Frankfort embraces Junior Miss. I loved it!

Post competition, all the folks who had a part in putting on Junior Miss met up at a lovely little bar called The Island. In all honesty, The Island is a double wide trailer converted into a small town bar - complete with holiday themed decorations in the entry way! The Island was followed by a trip to The Scoreboard - an equally dive-y bar with a dj and a dance floor. Watch out!

At four in the morning, I was back at Betsy's house, rolling around on the floor with the four little dachshunds (oh - I almost forgot to mention Frankfort's high school mascot is the Hot Dog!) and eating lukewarm pizza. An end to a GREAT night! Thanks Betsy!!

And then he was gone...

2009-02-17T16:46:00.000-05:00

And just like that, he was gone. There were no long goodbyes and no reminiscing of the fun times we shared. Just a phone call from the car that he bought a house and he was on his way down.

And the emotions I'm feeling are so bizarre. I'm sad, cause it is the end of our book. I'm happy - because I think this move was necessary. And, in a weird way, I'm jealous.

She said WHAT???

2009-02-16T21:13:00.000-05:00

So there I am, at my annual doctor's appointment chitchatting with my doctor. My doctor is a nice lady who wants her patients to not only be healthy but also to have an active social life. So, as she and I are discussing me being single, she pointedly asks, "Well, have you tried online dating?" During. The. Exam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Feels Like Home to Me....

2009-02-15T21:15:00.001-05:00

I would like to congratulate my mother's old crockpot for still producing some damn good beef stew after all these years. The dear crockpot may not have a lid, and it is struggle to clean, but it's cooked meals for over 25 years! Hooray!

Three Yogurt Parfaits in Two Days

2009-02-13T11:23:00.000-05:00

Any respectable breakfast event has several key components: LOTS of coffee, coat racks, a good crowd of familiar faces, muffins and yogurt parfaits. I went to several breakfast events last week, and the yogurt parfaits were definitely the standouts. I was at one event for so long, I had a yogurt parfait for breakfast (along with some banana bread that can only be described as orgasmic) and another parfait for lunch.

Three cheers for parfaits!!!

Psyche!

2009-02-11T20:04:00.000-05:00

It used to be that the first signal of spring for me was seeing my first robin of the season. Well, robins these days are totally psyching me out! Guess how many robins I saw this past Saturday, February (yes - february!) 7th? Three! I saw three robins, which should mean that Spring has sprung, right? WRONG! It's February, there's a thunderstorm taking place outside my window right now and temperatures are supposed to drop back to the 30s in a few days. I feel like I'm on some kind of weird seasonal roller coaster...

So, robins - go back to wherever you spend your winters and don't show yourselves until Spring really has sprung!

"It's the end of the world as we know it!"

2009-02-05T21:19:00.000-05:00

If I was given only two foods to eat for the rest of my life, this is what I would choose to eat. I would also be one big fatty. "Healthy Fat" my big fat ass....

Oh. My. Hell.

2009-02-04T12:49:00.000-05:00

Dear City of Indianapolis,

That white stuff that's been falling from the sky this past week? That's called snow. And, it's a pretty common occurrence this time of year in this part of the world. So, if it's so common, why are you and your 60 snowplows having trouble clearing the roads??

Seriously. I know there are a lot of roads to plow, but I would like to see a bit more effort. Driving on slippery slush does not mean the roads are clean. It just means everyone is going to slip that much more as they turn in an intersection.

Also, I finally realized something: your inefficiency to clear the roads has bred an entire city of stupid drivers. They either drive too fast and then can't stop or they drive so slow a tortoise could pass them on the left. Those Indy residents who learned to drive in Indy and have lived here their whole lives really lose all skill once the snow starts to fall.

And, because of the slush and the stupid drivers, commutes that normally take thirty minutes now take an hour and half. I HATE sitting in my car that long in the morning! In fact, I've taken to doing bizarre things as I sit in traffic and look at brake lights (writing to-do lists and exercising a certain "muscle" comes to mind...)

With that said, I'd like to take a moment to proudly proclaim that I am a Region Rat. This title means that I not only say all my vowels in my nose and know where the Perogi/Pork/Blueberry/Popcorn Festival takes place each year, but I also grew up experiencing lake effect snow that would inevitably dump inches upon inches of snow on Lake, Porter and LaPorte County. ALL. THE. TIME.

This also means that I learned how to drive during the cruel and nasty winters in the Region. I even mastered the fine art of sliding through a stoplight at just the right moment so that my car wouldn't spin out. That takes some mad skill! (Sidenote: my driving instructor father would not be proud of my running a light, but he is VERY proud of my snow driving abilities. And, he knows how crappy Indy is with snow removal, so he gifted me special snow tires this year! Thanks, Pops!)

So, as I look out my window at the slush covered streets and not-so-secretly dream of warm days and flip flops, I rest assured knowing that I can take those mean streets. It's everyone else that pisses me off.

SNOW DAY!!!

2009-01-28T10:55:00.000-05:00

The snow started falling yesterday and my commute home took almost two hours. And, wouldn't you know it, my favorite Beyonce song comes on the radio while I'm driving home, and I, of course, start busting out my white girl dance moves while driving. Whelp, at that same time, my car started sliding left and right on I70 like it was shaking its own money-maker! I stopped dancing, took control of my car and finally got home (where I promptly made myself a cocktail!).

So, at 6am this morning I'm out of bed looking out the windows and firing on my laptop. The snow outside is stacked up HIGH and my Channel 13 newscasters are working their tails off trying to count snowplows on the road and watching buses make precarious right hand turns. Work email has nothing about the office being closed. Call my voicemail, and find out that the office IS open. WHAT???

It's now 11am, I'm showered, in my pjs and on my couch. And, I think I can finally see the snow plows in the parking lot. It's about time!!!

I'll be working from home today. No use in risking my Honda and my sanity on the roads when I can easily do email from the comfort of my own home. My poor boss has received so many texts from me today, I'm surprised she hasn't turned her phone off. But, I have the go ahead to work from home, and that's what I plan on doing! (Well, that and possibly cleaning the apt...)

Ahhh, the joys of an unexpected day at home! Now, I just need to figure out if the Roller Skating party is in my future this evening....

Random Thoughts

2009-01-15T22:54:00.000-05:00

1. I love The Office. I giggle the entire time. And, I love watching the reruns. Even if I've seen a certain episode many, many times - I still giggle.
2. My friend Jen is one of my most favorite people. And, I'm so glad she has such an awesome man in her life. She deserves it!
3. Today, I found my picture on the back of every bathroom stall at work. It wasn't done in jest, but as a way to encourage people to participate in an office wide program. While I like being an office "cheerleader" and will continue to be a good sport, I don't like that people are looking at me while they are going pee. Weird!
4. I LOVE Scotty's Brewhouse. I went to the downtown location for the first time tonight and ran into a bunch of fun, fun people. I always do at Scotty's - should have known I would at the new location. Can't wait to go there tomorrow night for DAW!
5. My friend, BR, has the best accent in the entire world. He has a really, really deep voice and a very strong southern accent. It is one of the cutest things I have ever heard. :)
6. I have a three day weekend ahead of me. I'm trying to think of things to do to kill the time: sleep, shop, clean, bake, gym. Anyone want to go watch movies with me????
7. I saw some really bad engagement pictures online the other day. It made me start planning what I would not do in my engagement pictures. I'm getting ahead of myself - I know this. But really - you should have seen these. Awful.
8. New guilty pleasure? Cheap manicures. I got a mani for $12 yesterday! Who knew that if I went to a different side of town, manicures would be half the price of what I normally pay on the Northside???

We're gonna get political, political!

2009-01-07T22:32:00.000-05:00

Okay, from the right to the left..... My 82 year old grandma, who loves garage sales and loves her grandkids, made this for my little sister for Christmas. Her own Barak Obama doll. So wrong, yet so perfect.

Crazy Conservatives

2009-01-07T10:57:00.000-05:00

I watch the Today show when I get ready each morning. It's my way of staying up on current events while applying the proper eye makeup each morning. Also, I have a crush on Matt Lauer...

Either way, Anne Coulter was on this morning to talk about her new book, but she also spent a good time whining about how she got cut from the show on Tuesday and was replaced by Tony Blair. I mean, lots of whining! I came to this conclusion:

Anne Coulter is one crazy ass bitch. And, I'm not reading her book.

Great Saturday!

2008-12-20T20:07:00.000-05:00

I haven't had a Saturday this wonderful in a long time. For so long, I dreaded Saturdays. It meants hours on end by myself, learning how to be single and reconnecting with friends that had gone by the wayside when I was all ga-ga over a guy. (Note to self: NEVER let yourself become "that" girl again!).

Today was magnificent! The weather left a lot to be desired (cold, gray, windy), but the abundance of really, really good friends made up for it. First, brunch at Patachou with KJP. So glad to see her! She's out making a name for herself in the academia field in NC and I just don't get to see her as much as I should. A conversation with KJP is good for the soul. So, we caught up and talked about upcoming weddings (other peoples' weddings, not ours) over oatmeal and cinnamon toast.

Then, I anxiously awaited the arrival of a friend that was always fated to be my friend. We just didn't meet until after college, when we lived in neighboring apartments. Our story is a book in and of itself! Either way, ERW was up from Nashville and after she dropped her hubbie off at a bball game, she met up with me! We talked about everything under the sun while getting our nails done, eating a late lunch and buying puppy cupcakes for her dog. (Did I mention I love buying dog treats? One of the reasons I want a pup of my own so bad!) Seriously, this is one of those friends that you still wished lived down the hall from you. I can count friends like that on one hand, and she is definitely one of them.

So, all in all, a very spirit-uplifting type of day! Wonderful!

Now, I'm waiting for LSB to show up. He's kinda late - but since we really never set a time in the first place, I'm going to have to get over it. I just want to see that silly movie!

And, I just got a call from one of the girls I work with. She's on her way to a party at a former co-worker's house. Party sounds fun, but I replied that I wouldn't make it because I'd made plans with LSB. Maybe I shouldn't have done that...

Oh well! After a day like this, I don't see how my night could possibly be bad. Knock on wood!

Welcome, Holidays!

2008-12-16T21:49:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile, but I haven't been gone for good. Just got sidetracked.

Welcome, Holidays, welcome! Honestly, in the big scheme of things, I don't feel like it's time to be holiday season yet. But, I'm ready for it. And, looking forward to it!

My little sister finished her finals yesterday and stayed with me last night. My mom picked her up today to take her back home. I wish I could have gone back with them! I love, love, love spending time with my family. They're my favorite people in the world.

But, alas, there's a week of holiday parties, receptions and luncheons to attend before I can load up my car with perfectly wrapped gifts and head up "home" myself. And, with all the social obligations, I'm making myself get the gym. I plan on eating the wonderful holiday food that surrounds me - I better be sweating those extra calories off!

Speaking of "holiday" food... We have an office pitch-in tomorrow. Ugh... There's a definite generation divide in my office. One generation makes these great dishes from scratch and is happy to do it. The other generation grudgingly brings some store bought dish to throw on the table. Me? I'm in the middle? I'm definitely not bringing something I made from scratch (who has the time for that???). But, I also couldn't just pop into the deli and have them put a half pound of something in a plastic container. So, I'm bringing pasta salad from a box! Best dollar and a half I spent all day! And, at least it looks homemade! Always the overachiever... ;)

And, since everything needs a dose of boy:
Did I mention that the holidays mean the opportunity to see LSB? He and I live in different cities, and usually have different schedules, but sometimes, when the moon is right, we meet up. And, he's an ass and pushes all my buttons and I like the challenge. It's nice to be friends with a smart guy.

Wow!

2008-10-30T11:12:00.001-04:00

What an awful Wednesday it was. An eleven hour work day that started and ended with tears of frustration. While my two bosses saw my frustration and anger as "growing pains," I took a different approach and felt like I'd been thrown under the bus multiple times in one day and did not appreciate any of it. People can say what they want about how great an "opportunity" it is to be 25 and having these crucial conversations. I think it all just sucks.

So, I had a bad day. I vented about it to RNG, which helped. And, then I spent my evening having a couple drinks and saying goodbye to a place I used to spend a lot of time at.

This morning, RNG showed how nice he really is. He sent me flowers. And, not just a regular, run-of-the-mill boquet, but a boquet of sunflowers - sent to brighten my day. They worked!!!

Here's to a new day of challenges and tribulations. But, at least I have the sunflowers in my office now!

One Week

2008-10-28T14:39:00.000-04:00

It's just one week, right? Go to work in the morning, work out when you leave the office, and then you have your night to do what you want with it. Well, unless you have a work thing after work that elimnates your 5:30 gym session. Or, you're hanging with your Lil' and spending a chilly evening at the pumpkin patch. Or, your best friend is coming over with a bottle of wine. Or, you're wanting to reconnect with an old friend over a favorite meal. And, don't forget - you have to get a Halloween costume together by Friday!

So, when RNG asked what night I could hang out this week, I hemmed and hawed, going through my calendar in my head. Where could I fit him in? I shouldn't have to "fit in" anybody - especially a new guy. Especially when I'm supposed to really be working on this "getting back into the dating world" thing.

I found a spot. After the pumpkin patch and before the breakfast meeting. The CAN'T MISS breakfast meeting.