The Chronicles of Kevin

Mekka Mekenna

2011-04-19T21:04:00.012-05:00

In the late summer/early fall of 1999, I saw a puppy that one of Kendra's friend's had recently acquired. He was so cute and adorable that I had to get one of my own. So, my sister and I set out to the place they were selling these puppies...the Walmart parking lot in Sherman. They only had two left, a male and a female. I remember it vividly...the male was overly hyper and Mekka was just standing there, wagging her tail. They were tied to the bumper of a truck. We decided on the female. She vomited in the car on the way home, she was in the floorboard of the front passenger seat. I guess she got car sick or was just overwhelmed by the new surroundings/new people. Kendra and I went back to that SAME Walmart and bought a lot of stuff for her, including a new tag. We decided on the drive back to Sherman, to name her Mekka, after a character in a short lived animated show on MTV. I just liked the name Mekenna, and so it fit...Mekka Mekenna.

I remember having to take her out at 5am while my dad was getting ready to go to work. I remember one morning, when my mom knocked on my door, Mekka was soooo protective that she stood on my bed and barked ferociously, then saw my mom open the door and urinated on my bed. This was probably because #1 she needed to go and wasn't let out soon enough and #2 she saw it was my mom.

Fast forward to November 1999, I was involved in a single car accident. By all accounts, I should've either died or been seriously injured but came out unscathed. That exact same night, Mekka began showing symptoms of Parvo. She spent a week in the hospital but recovered. I remember going to pick her up...she was, literally, "bitching" at me the whole way home.

Her "bitching" is a running theme throughout her life, she KNEW how to let us know she was upset and she was ALWAYS accommodated. If there is an art to manipulation, she was the master.

Years went by, my relationship with Mekka grew stronger and stronger. I can remember a time when I began to finally accept myself and had no idea how my family could possibly accept me for who I was/am. She was there. I would tell her that I knew she was my friend and that I knew she loved me unconditionally, she was on my side. She never let me down. She was always there.

(At this point, I just need to say that I KNOW this is a dog, but still)

I met someone, a person that I knew was meant to be. We decided to live together and I left her behind. I missed her, I even stayed overnight at my parent's house one night just for her. I knew I couldn't take her with me. She was a dog that was used to running free on 5 acres of land, living in a house...happy. I couldn't possibly remove her from that to live with me in a small apartment, regulated by a leash and collar. It just seemed cruel.

Days passed into months and months to years. She was always happy to see me. She "bitched" when I would come home. It quickly became apparent that she was getting older, but her tenacity for life was always at the forefront. At Thanksgiving dinner one year, we decided to give her a mild/safe sedative to allow her some form of "ability" to deal with all those people arriving at my parent's home. She didn't react well to that medication. She seized, her heart stopped. Fortunately for us, my aunt Christy, an RVT, was there. We applied compressions to her chest, she came back to us. After that day, she looked older...almost immediately. Mekka never would give up, she continued to provide companionship for a few years.

Mekka eventually succumbed to arthritis. She'd previously endured Wobbler's syndrome, but seemed to make a decent recovery. She became less and less able to walk normally. She was put on medications and seemed to adjust to it. She lost her friend Chase, our Australian Shepherd, on February 18th of this year. At that time, we thought Mekka was deteriorating exponentially...but the evidence left behind were actually those of Chase. After he passed away, she expressed her sadness, as witnessed by my parents. Mekka, wasn't doing as poorly as we thought however.

Days became only months. Almost 2 months, to the day, Mekka was ready to go. Well, I should say, her BODY was ready to go. My sister picked her up at my parent's home and brought her to DVSC. We all knew it was time, but that doesn't make it any easier. I sat with her this morning for a while, mostly trying to calm her down from being "Mekka" aka scared, "bitching". She could no longer walk or hold her bladder. She was a shadow of the dog we once knew...but she was STILL Mekka.

I thanked Mekka today for being there for me when I wasn't sure any one person could. I thanked her for being a best friend and I apologized for leaving her behind. I still feel guilty and will always. It was never my intention to leave her but I felt she would be more happy at my parent's home and WITH my parents...I think she was. She was, and will always be, a good pup. I dread going to my parent's home now, because I cannot imagine going there without hearing Mekka "bitch" at me and giving me that smile.

She's running around now, free of pain, with Chasey Boy and she's happy. I miss her though, always will.

**I thank my mom and dad for taking care of her in her last years. Without them, she would have given up a long time ago. I also have to thank my sister...Kendra was there at the last moment when I couldn't possibly bear it. Kendra was the last person to be with her and I think that's what Mekka would have wanted.

Japan

2011-03-12T22:27:00.002-06:00

So most of us have read, seen, heard about what's going on in Japan. It's a terrible, horrific tragedy and, as Americans, we must do our part to help in any way we can.

That being said, I've continued to think about one thing...what if? I mean, Japan is an industrialized nation and, in more ways than one, more advanced than the US. So...what if this happens to us? What if some natural disaster wipes out half the US? I realize many of you may believe that it was some anomaly or fluke incident, however, we keep hearing how Japan is accustomed to earthquakes and has precautions in place for tsunamis. It's been said that the people of that country are educated from birth to expect/prepare for the worst case scenario. So, apparently, this natural disaster has come as a sobering reality...not only to them, but to us. What I'm getting at is this...what if and WHEN will this occur to the USA? What will the people of this country do/react to when half the country is wiped out by natural disaster and we must now rely on foreign assistance? It seems strange...IMO...primarily because we've witnessed major natural disasters in, mostly, un-industrialized countries.

I saw on CNN recently an interview with General Honore, the guy from New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, and I kept wondering, "WHY are they talking to him?!?" While I understand the comparison of destruction of New Orleans following Katrina and the flooding from the storm surge...there's a distinct difference. We are talking about a country, almost HALF a country...NOT a city...being destroyed by a natural disaster. A country that endured an earthquake (8.9) AND a tsunami...the comparisons are minimal. THIS interview got me thinking, if the United States endured something on a comparable scale...what would be the response?

It is my hope that when something like this happens in the United States, not only will we welcome the assistance but that we are as fortunate as others to have such assistance offered to us.

My thoughts go out to the citizens of Japan, I cannot imagine the toll this is taking on you and yours. May you find some solace in knowing that the United States and it's people are here for you and doing what we can to help.

Chasey Boy

2011-02-20T00:04:00.009-06:00

Chase, an Australian Shepherd, came into our family about 6 or so years ago. He was an obnoxious but super sweet little guy and we all loved him almost immediately. Although his "obnoxiousness" could be tiresome at times, he was ultimately a good pup. We "rescued" him, I guess you'd say. There was a family in Coppell that decided they'd rather have a pool in their backyard than a young dog. So they looked for a home, found one but that person wanted an outside dog. Chase, being used to living indoors, would sit outside and cry wanting to come inside. We took him in and, at first, it was a trying experience. See, we already had an indoor dog, Mekka (dalmation). She wasn't uber thrilled at first but she adjusted and grew to love him as well. Best friends.

A little background...as a kid, we always had dogs really but they always lived outdoors. I guess maybe my parents didn't know how to deal with an indoor pet or just weren't willing, either way it was just the way it was and it was ok. After I graduated from HS and after a year in college, we got Mekka (the dalmation), my mom and dad were hesitant at first to have an indoor dog but we all acclimated nicely and she became a HUGE part of the family. A couple years later, here comes Chase...again, he quickly became a member of the family. I moved out several years ago and felt it inappropriate to bring either dog to an apartment. I mean, let's be honest, if you're accustomed to running around on 5 acres of land only to be stuffed into a small apartment, walked on a leash, etc...you'd be unhappy...right? So they live with my parents in Gunter because I KNOW that makes them happy. It's their home afterall.

So fast forward to present day. Mekka is aging, she's going on 12 yrs, which is really rare for a dalmation. She's suffering from arthritis and, essentially, a degenerative disc disease. The meds have not quite helped her as of late and we've been preparing ourselves to make THAT decision. However, I got a call Thursday afternoon from my mom saying Chase wasn't doing well, he was sick.

For those who don't know, I work at a veterinary hospital. I have heard from our clients regarding symptoms running the gamut, from severe to slight. Some even waiting DAYS after those same symptoms begin to even call the vet.

So, my mom tells me that Chase has been vomiting beginning that morning. He's lethargic, drinking water but not eating. So I tell her he needs to see a vet because of possible dehydration and since I'm an hour away, it would have to wait until the morning. I asked her to check all the usual things...temp by touch of ears, nose, gums, etc. He seems to be in not much distress at that point, to me anyway given my experience. My aunt Christy, an RVT, stopped by that night to check him out. His temperature was normal, only slightly dehydrated and not feeling well. So my dad will be bringing him to my hospital the following morning for evaluation, fluids, etc.

Friday morning comes. My phone rings at 6:28am. It's my sister, who works at a veterinary specialists office. I wake up believing she's going to tell me that she's bringing Chase to me so I can take him in once my hospital opens. The words that came from her mouth did not resonate at first, it was unbelievable. "Chase died" she said. I was in shock. I was upset. Denial. I mean how could THAT be the outcome?!?!? HOW?!?!

It still doesn't quite seem real, I mean HE was the HEALTHY ONE! The one that would be mourning our dalmation Mekka!

I later found out that my mom found him dead in the utility room, where he had been confined so water/food could be withheld. According to my mom, she tried to open the door after calling, "Chasey Boy!", but he was in front of that door. She saw blood from his back end...a lot of blood and knew. So, being in the country, you bury your pets. My dad dug a grave for Chase and he's buried at his home in Gunter.

What I can't stop thinking about...Was he in pain or scared just before he passed? I realize this is a dog, but he was a family member regardless and thinking about those things makes me extremely sad. However, Mekka (our dalmation) probably took it worst of all. As my dad was digging the grave and while he was covered by a blanket...Mekka went up to him and sniffed him, began crying and laid next to him. Whoever says dogs are just animals is wrong period.

It was a sad day for my family. Still is.

There's this girl...

2010-12-10T21:26:00.005-06:00

Ok this is a "two-girl" post...meaning there are two people I'm referring to, the sad thing is, I can't really differentiate between the two anymore. To begin with, there's this woman that I do not know, don't care about and never will, but she's wreaked havoc on my family. She's a no good, newbie, biatch kinda girl...the one that doesn't understand REAL LIFE but only takes into account what she knows by the book. The kind that doesn't see the grass for trees, the kind that thinks her crap doesn't stink because she's too busy smelling her own perfume...you get me? This woman has nothing on me or my family, yet she's "in control" (for the time being). I cannot wait until that day she's out of our lives, only so I can draw her back in, berate her and cast her aside like last weeks garbage. Sorry, but this woman is a POS in ever sense of the phrase.

Moving on...

There's this other girl...someone that's kinda close to me. She's nice enough, works hard enough and, generally speaking, should, by all accounts, be an "all-around" type of person. However, she has changed and NOT for the better. I do still consider her a friend, in the work sorta way, but things have taken a turn. See, when you become the "boss' favorite", you take one of two roads...either you work hard and continue to be friendly with coworkers OR you act like you're impervious to any consequence. She's apparently chosen that she's "better". The sad thing is, she's genuinely a good person, but I've come to "think bad thoughts" about her lately because I can't stand people that think they are above you simply because the two-bit, craptastic person-in-charge thinks they are friends. Ok, I digress...how would you feel about a person that decided they should VOTE FOR THEM SELF when it comes to a company-wide vote for a silly little award? Sure, it's silly BUT STILL! What a cheater! I swear, as much as I care about this person, she has gone off the deep end and I'm willing to be the one to let her KNOW that. Sad right? It just irritates me to no end. Cheaters never win! WOOT!

EPCOT Food & Wine Festival 2010

2010-11-13T20:49:00.003-06:00

As some of you know, we returned home from a week long trip to Walt Disney World this past Tuesday. One of, the many, reasons I love to go to Disney in the Fall is because of the Annual International Food & Wine Festival. It brings me back to that time I lived in Orlando and interned for Disney, but it's also a "slower" time and the atmosphere at Food & Wine is just, well, amazing. For those who are not familiar with this festival, here's the lowdown... In EPCOT, the World Showcase offers a glimpse into the countries of Mexico, Norway, China, Italy, Germany, the US, Japan, Morocco, France, the UK and Canada, there's also the African Outpost. These pavilions come with restaurants, merchandise, an "attraction" and, even cast members, from each respective country. Each pavilion has been designed by that specific country...just some random trivia...after the Moroccan pavilion was designed and built, the government officials from the country toured it and loved it so much, they paid for it. So, the point I'm slowly getting at is that World Showcase is a culturally diverse and amazing part of EPCOT; therefore, the Annual Food & Wine Festival obviously takes place there. This Festival showcases appetizer sized samples of food and wine/beer from, not only, those countries in World Showcase, but an additional 14 countries from around the globe. They are set up as kiosks throughout the World Showcase promenade. So, if you're a "foodie", this is a MUST! I love trying foods from around the world and the pairing of wine or beer...needless to say, one trip around World Showcase and, well, intoxication is inevitable. That being said and in no particular order, here is a non-exhaustive list of our favorites this year from each country represented...(keep in mind we did NOT hit every kiosk or try everything, since I went with someone who doesn't really understand the concept of Food & Wine, but has some concept of money being spent)...

Argentina
-Grilled Beef skewer with Chimichurri sauce and Boniato Puree
-Bodega Norton Cosecha Tardia wine
-Roasted Corn and Cheese Empanada (I WANTED to try this but they were ALWAYS out, which says something!)

Australia
-Grilled Lamb Chop with Roasted Potato Salad and Red Wine Reduction

Belgium
-Freshly Baked Waffles with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream
-Stella Artois
-Godiva Chocolate Iced Coffee

Brazil
Sadly did not visit

Brewer's Collection
-Altenmunster Octoberfest

Canada
-Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup (this is a CLASSIC, must do)
-Vidal Icewine (portion is extremely small but worth the cash)

Charcuterie and Cheese
Sadly did not visit

Chile
Sadly did not visit

China
-Green Tea Plum Wine Cooler
-the food is standard fair for the Food & Wine Festival, Seam "did not want American Chinese food"

Desserts and Champagne
Sadly did not visit

France
Sadly did not visit (primarily because of the line, however was recommended to try the Creme Brulee au Chocolate au Lait and Braised Short Ribs in Cabernet with Mashed Potatoes) I've already had the escargot in years past, it was ok actually.

Germany
-Apfel Strudel featuring Werther's Original Karamell Sauce
-Altenmunster Octoberfest beer

Greece
Sadly did not visit

Hops and Barley
-Boston style Crab Cake with Cabbage Slaw and Remoulade
-New England Lobster Roll
-Sam Adams 15th Anniversary Festival Beer

Ireland
-Guinness beer
-Did not eat there but was recommended the Lobster and Scallop Fisherman's Pie

Italy
-Moretti Beer
-We were recommended the Baked Cheese Ravioli with Creamy Bolognese Sauce and Melted Mozzarella, however it tasted like Chef Boyardee

Japan
Sadly did not visit, but standard fair for Food & Wine

Morocco
-Beef in a Pita Pocket...it tasted like a seasoned hamburger pattie in a pita pocket, ok but not delicious
-Iced Mint Tea
-Tangerine Mimosa Royale yum

New Zealand
-Seared Sea Scallop with Veggie Slaw and Lemon Oil

Poland
-Kielbasa and Potato Pierogies with Caramelized Onions and Sour Cream
-Golabki...yum

Puerto Rico
Sadly did not visit

Singapore
-Shrimp Cake with Singapore Noodle Salad
-Tiger Beer

Spain
-Spanish Almond Cake (tasted like the filling of a bear claw)
-Paul Cheneau "Lady" Blanc de Blancs Cava wine

South Africa
Sadly did not visit

South Korea
-Lettuc Wrap with Roasted Pork and Kimchi Slaw...yum

United States
Believe it or not...did not try, but I had no desire to eat Bison Chili (?)

As you can see, there is a very eclectic menu and offerings at the Internation Food & Wine Festival. EPCOT is just such an amazing place, this is like icing on the cake. I hope anyone who reads this gets to enjoy every aspect of the Food & Wine Festival...it's just so much fun!

**A post about our trip and pics to come!**

Gravley Heritage

2010-10-24T19:51:00.008-05:00

I think a lot of people often wonder about their heritage, who their ancestors are and just where they came from. I've read a lot of information regarding my family and from a very young age. I was able to read about my family as they came to Texas from the Carolina's. The book this information came from described in detail the lives of many of my ancestors. I guess because I've had some access to this information and have had so many great Gravley's to look up to and in my life, I am proud to say... I'm a Gravley. It's not a common name and there are really no amazing accomplishments my family attributed to in the formation of our country or anything like that (that I'm aware of anyway)...BUT, there's a VERY long lineage. I can remember reading or hearing something about my family coming from England...Hertfordshire to be precise. So I took it upon myself to Google "Gravley+Hertfordshire, England" (or something like that). I quickly realized there's an actual village in England named after my family. Graveley, Hertforshire, England. Granted, it's spelled a little differently, but I will never forget reading the Coat of Arms that used to be on my Mammaw & Pappaw's wall (in the hallway, just before their bedroom)...it read that ALL members of the family, regardless of the spelling, are related. So, obviously, this village is a part of my family...right? I mean, I'm no expert and I'm certainly not deluded enough to truly believe this town IS named after my family...BUT, seriously? Coincidence? I think not. It is my goal, to one day, visit this village and see, quite possibly, my family's extensive heritage, in person. Sure, there may be a lot of research to be done to link my family name of Gravley to Graveley, but I'll do it. I dunno, it just adds even more pride of my family name to me...especially since some of the things I've read take this village back to the 12th century!

So, without further ado, here are a few pics I've found of Graveley, Hertfordshire... and here's the website!

It's Funny The Things You Remember...

2010-10-18T21:23:00.004-05:00

I recently ran across a post on Facebook of a friend that, as an adult, has an ear infection. I instantly had a memory of my mom heating up some kind of oil or something, putting it in my ear followed by a cotton ball and I laid there with my head in her lap. I don't remember the pain of the ear infection but I remember laying my head in her lap and knowing I would be ok. (To my mom: it was in that chair, next to the hallway of the mobile home...LOOOONG before the house was built). Anyway, it's strange the memories I have of my childhood, it's strange the things I can remember but no one else does. Perhaps it's because I was so impressionable at such a young age. Who knows. While many of you really don't care about this, it's something I feel like getting out there. After remembering that incident of an ear infection around the age of 3 or 4, many things came to mind. Here are a few of my earliest memories, not in chronological order and this is not an exhaustive list:

1. Shortly after moving to Gunter (I think), I remember being in the mobile home, back porch not yet built (there were stairs at the sliding glass door). The person watching me/us, Grandad Williams.

2. I remember being in a truck with some family members (not sure who all was there but I do know Cindy and maybe Christy?) and it broke down just south of Celina (near where the Shell station is now?).

3. I remember being in my Dad's truck, I think it was red/white? I was standing in the seat, wearing boots and I got mud on that seat. I knew it wasn't a good thing.

4. My dad sat me in his lap as we were driving down the road and I GOT to drive!

5. I remember when Pappaw would always do something to me I didn't like, like pinch my cheek or something silly, he'd say "I'm sorry, do you accept my apology?" Something to that effect. So one time, he asked and I thought (literally remember this), "What if I say no?", so I said, "No" or shook my head, I remember feeling like I actually hurt his feelings....FYI, he was holding me at the time! Not sure how old I was then.

6. I remember learning to ride a bike without training wheels...I believe it was Fall or Winter, there was no green grass, it was brown. Someone, I think my Dad, was pushing me on my bike between our house and Mammaw & Pappaw's house.

7. I remember wanting to stay the night at Donna & Billy's house and poking my Dad in the eye (not intentionally). It was the house in Carrollton next to the RR track.

8. I remember the day Donna had her aneurysm. We were having corn dogs for dinner, when the phone rang...

9. I remember when DeeDee lived with us and sat outside our door in a rocking chair to make sure we stayed in bed. I also remember when she referred to George Michael as a "hunk" and wondering what that meant while wondering if Boy George was a man or a woman...as she watched music videos in the living room.

10. I remember when my parents built the house, my mom kept saying, "For Christmas, we're going to tie a big red bow around this house." She lied. I literally thought we were not gonna have any gifts, only the house (for which I was truly grateful). However, Santa came to visit...again. Best. Christmas. Ever. lol

11. Speaking of Christmas, I swear I remember one night waking up to SEE Santa. I saw him that night, looking at family pictures (I promise, he was wearing the "uniform" and everything!)....I could SWEAR (to this day) he was there (if it was my Dad dressed as Santa, please don't kill that memory lol). So, maybe that's why I love the holiday's so much...it's not about the money or the hassle, it's about being with my family and that *certain* magic that's continuously in the air that time of year.

As I said before, this list is definitely not exhaustive. Hell, I remember when my cousin Brandi was born, the day Grandad Williams passed and what Nanny Williams wore that day, the green room/the mini-organ/Doublemint gum at Nanny Rhea's....and, of course, holiday's everywhere...Pappaws "film" camera (where is that video BTW? It was made into VHS at some point, I want to copy it!)...I'll never forget it all. I remember so much that, when it comes to these holidays especially, it becomes so sentimental that I try to enjoy every aspect.

I actually remember my childhood and I would not change that for the world.

Tap, tap...

2010-10-14T19:54:00.003-05:00

...is this thing on??? I'm not trying to come across like I'm bitching or anything but I've posted quite a bit and had quite a few views, according to that blogger app thingy. Don't get me wrong, I'm not in need of conversation, but when I see people that have viewed this blog from not only North Texas, but everywhere...I begin to wonder, why don't they respond? Well, to everyone I say...PLEASE respond! If you don't want to, that's fine, no problem, I'll continue to post in a semi-regular way lol. Just saying, wondering...is there anyone reading this blog besides me?

Carrie Underwood

2010-10-11T19:49:00.004-05:00

A seemingly short 6 years ago, this young lady was dazzling America on the stage of American Idol and now she's a household name. I vividly remember watching and listening as she sang Alone by Heart and Simon predicted she would not only win but become the biggest selling Idol winner of all previous Idols...what.a.prediction! Not only did he get it right, but she's gone on to sell (probably, I'm no expert) more albums than ANY Idol since that season. She's won numerous awards upon awards, and rightfully so (unlike some artists who shall remain nameless *cough*Taylor Swift*cough*). On Saturday night, we had the pleasure of seeing her in concert at the American Airlines Center. WHAT A SHOW! Now, I knew after receiving those awards as Entertainer of The Year that she would put on a good show...but THIS...well, it exceeded my expectations!

For starters, we had great seats, one section back from the stage on the floor. At one point she stood in the bed of a blue truck that floated over the audience. Seam said, "She's coming this way!" I was ecstatic, couldn't wait, she was singing Country Roads by John Denver. However, the BEST part, not only did the truck stop just above us...BUT...it then LOWERED down closer to the audience. Yep, ladies and gentlemen, Carrie Underwood was 10 feet away from ME! I couldn't be happier if I were a pig in...well, you get the idea.

On of the other highlights of the show came following her song Jesus, Take The Wheel. Now, many of you know, I'm not a religious person but that does not mean that I cannot be moved by "religious music". So, she finishes Jesus, Take The Wheel and immediately breaks out with How Great Thou Art. It gave me chills. It was, for lack of a better word, amazing.

She also sang her hit, Temporary Home. This song is so moving to me. Most especially the last verse regarding an old man in a hospital bed, surrounded by people he loves. It really hit's home with me. I can remember going to see my Pappaw at the hospital after he was given his prognosis...5-8 weeks. I'll never forget it. We were all there, surrounding his bed. Everytime I hear this song, I'm anticipating the huge emotion it creates in me in the last part. Again, she is such an amazing artist with a voice no one can touch.

Her encore was Before He Cheats, it was awesome as expected and, while this is nothing new when it comes to concerts, there was a portion of the song where she stopped singing, the music stopped being so loud and the AUDIENCE carried the song. I dunno, I guess I feel like it's something powerful when an artist is singing a song and the audience is audibly singing along, it feels so much more than it is...does that makes? Anyway, awesome show and I highly encourage anyone and everyone to go see her in concert...truly incredible.

Below are some videos we took at the show, now keep in mind we FORGOT the dang camera! So these were taken via iPhone. However, one is NOT our video (thanks xoMichelleF on YouTube), I just felt like I should include it given the moving performance....Jesus, Take The Wheel+How Great Thou Art

The Cake...

2010-10-02T22:54:00.009-05:00

My niece's 5th birthday is quickly approaching (October 11th). I feel like a 5th birthday is some sort of milestone birthday, I guess because that means the child is "in school". I'm not sure why, but that seems to fit my reasoning. Emma, my niece, is already in school and doing wonderfully, she loves it. Emma, like me at that age, is unable to enter "actual" Kindergarten since her birthday falls in October, so Pre-K it is. Her birthday party is October 9th at my parent's home. There will be family and friends alike, it will be a great time. I kept thinking what do we want for the theme? Emma has her sights set on a Spongebob theme. Well ok, I guess, I mean it IS her birthday, but I hate Spongebob. So, ok, that's cool, I can deal with it...but then she says, "I want a mermaid cake!" Hello Disney fanatic, welcome to The Little Mermaid! Of course, it may NOT be the "mermaid" she wants, but it's what we (meaning Seam and I) had in mind.

Fast forward a couple of days...Seam shows me the cake pics/designs on Facebook from a friend of his and, immediately I know, this person MUST make Emma's birthday cake! Ok, so the pic I saw was a Tinkerbell cake but still, if Tinkerbell could be done, then so must Ariel (aka The Little Mermaid)...right? Here's the picture I saw...

Obviously it was made with a child's heart in mind, so of course I wanted to have this person make the cake. Seam had lunch with his friend (who made this cake), beforehand he told me he "had a vision" of what it should look like. I know Seam loves Emma as much as I do, so I figured, ok...you handle it. From what I know, the actual cake will be an Almond-"something" flavored, who knows the "something" part since Seam doesn't really pay attention. However, he said he wanted it to be "ocean blue" with Ariel sitting on the top layer with Flounder and Sebastian just beneath her...great job right? I cannot wait to see it! Seam is paying for it, he's figuring about $100-200 for the cake. I highly DOUBT it will be THAT expensive since the person creating this cake is a friend of his. That being said, I hope Emma loves the cake...Hell, I hope I do! LOL! I guess we'll see. Her birthday party is Oct 9th, so pics will follow. I cannot wait to celebrate her birthday!

UPDATE: Her birthday cake was absolutely beautiful! It was delicious and everything I'd hoped for! Here's a pic (below)...by the way, all that blue, yeah, not fondant but BUTTERCREAM ICING! Racene, the person who made the cake, is INCREDIBLE!

Another Strange Dream...

2010-09-26T19:21:00.010-05:00

I'm all excited because I just won a large sum of money, not sure exactly how much, but it didn't matter...I won. To announce me as the winner, on a national basis, I was to appear on live television with a mystery host. The excitement was overwhelming, I kept thinking of all I could do with this amount of money (again, no idea how much but it didn't matter). So I arrive at the "lot", step inside and my nerves are almost too much to handle. I hit the stage, hear the audience cheer and quickly realize I'm on the "set" of Growing Pains and the host is Alan Thicke (the father in the TV show Growing Pains). Strange I thought, but it didn't matter, because I am now RICH! So, then, they put a light in the audience, I see only 2 people I know....Misty and her brother Jeffrey...weird. I wave like I'm some kind of celebrity. Then I see my niece Emma, ask her to come on stage with me and she heads up there. I introduce her to everyone (the world I guess). She was wearing a neon green shirt and jeans, I remember thinking, "What did her mother do to her hair?!?!" But it looked ok. Then, oddly enough, I was asked to sing a song, what? Again, strange. So I sang a song I've only heard ONCE...and coincidentally enough, I just heard it this past week on an episode of Glee. The uber weird thing is (besides ME singing in front of an audience AND TV), I now know the words to this song. I'm not quite sure how or why, but I do now (consciously)know the words just as I did in the dream. Strange...again!

I'm thinking I was watching Glee from the Tivo just before I went to sleep, I'm not sure though. I don't remember turning it on, but maybe I did and this is some subconscious way of learning something (the song), I dunno. This, ladies and gentlemen, is the song I sang in the dream LMAO...not sure why!

So what does this mean? Who knows

Dear Mother Nature...

2010-09-25T22:48:00.003-05:00

Dear Mother Nature,

For the last few+ months I've hated you, I'll admit it. The heat, humidity and relentless torture you bestowed upon us was unacceptable. However, you are slowly but surely redeeming yourself. I, for one, am happy that these past few months are only a memory. The very fact that the next couple of days' high will be below 80 is a testament to your giving nature, no pun intended. See, I'm a sucker for Fall, and, truthfully, I'm a sucker for winter. So it must be said, I'm excited for the next 6 months weatherwise. Should you decide that a massive snowstorm is needed, you have my permission. Actually, ok I'll go out on a limb here, I REQUEST a massive snowstorm....just one, please. Ice, ehh it's ok, it will do...but snow is awesome! Last year's Christmas Eve was lovely, in February we had 11" of snow in one day...BRAVO! Let's see what happens...but just a word of warning, if there will be no major snow storms or ice storms, then it MUST be cold...bitterly cold. If it's not, my hatred will continue. Let's face it, you don't want me hating you...right? Hello? Right? Does it even matter to you? Hello?.................

*tap* *tap* Hello?

Dear Weather Channel and Meteorologists everywhere,

I've heard so many lovely things about you. Please tell Mother Nature I'm not mad at her! I just want to be her friend!

Sincerely,
Kevin

Mad at Disney

2010-09-25T21:38:00.003-05:00

Of course I could never truly be mad at Disney, I mean c'mon. However, I must say I'm disappointed. Ok, so, I'm mostly disappointed in my negligence to actually look into advertisements instead of just trusting what I see/hear as true....I should know better right?

Here we go...we purchased our flights to Orlando on Tuesday of this past week...woohoo! We got really good, nonstop flights on American at a very reasonable price. Score! Yeah, not so fast. The next day, Seam says, "Call Disney, book the vacation and put down the deposit. We'll pay the rest in a couple weeks." Awesome! I thought. So, I call and OF COURSE the free dining plan is not available since it's a blackout date. WHHHAAAAATTTT?!?!? I mean it's the slowest time of year, why NOT give me the dining plan?!?! Nope, the black out dates are 10/28-11/11, we're going 11/2-11/9...smack dab in the middle of said blackout UGH! So, instead I listen to the spiel about how much we would save by purchasing this dining plan, I mean it makes sense, it really does BUT it's NOT FREE like expected. Basically instead of it costing around $1400 total for two people, hotel+tickets+dining, it will now cost just over $2K for the SAME thing! It's very frustrating especially since we ALREADY bought the flight...GRRR!

So, now one of 4 things will happen. We will either change the dates of the flight and incur a penalty, purchase the deal as is and suck it up, stay off Disney property (UGH) or stay on property, not pay for dining and fork out the dough. Frustrated...but I will get over it because...I'M GOING TO DISNEY WORLD!

Purchasing a Flight

2010-09-20T19:17:00.003-05:00

For those who may have run across this blog looking for pointers, you may find a few, but that's not my intent. My intent is to vent. See, we're planning a trip to Walt Disney World in early November and have decided to go ahead and purchase our flight. This is sort of a battle, while at times I'm ready to just say, "buy it now!", Seam isn't and vice versa. So we find ourselves in limbo. I've always been told there are certain periods of the week to fly because airfare is typically cheaper...those days are primarily Tuesdays and then Wednesdays, then of course it's imperative to return on either a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday (Ya know, Saturday night stay and all). This has always worked in the past and, by all accounts, it's still the case (unless you're going to Vegas)...right now, we'll be leaving on a Tuesday and returning the following Tuesday. The problem has become this...we recently found out that since most travelers purchase airfare on the weekend, it's best to avoid that because prices are generally higher. So then the question is...WHEN TO PURCHASE?!?!? It's like a lottery! So far, we've found the prices fairly consistent...$199 per person roundtrip. Albeit a GOOD (if not GREAT) price, we're thinking we may luck out and get it cheaper. See, the thing is, BEFORE the recession, I actually found roundtrip airfare/nonstop on Delta for around $135 per person...UNHEARD OF...supposedly. So I believe, in the back of Seam's mind, he's remembering this and thinking, "let's just wait one more day." The problem is...purchase airfare at a good rate and be happy or wait?

Now, if you ask me...I say PURCHASE NOW (even though I'd like it cheaper, so we can spend elsewhere) but that's only because I'm already giddy thinking about the trip...like a little school girl...and that's truly pathetic. Ok, so I don't care. However, if we purchase now and then it drops...we just have to grin and bear it. Then, when travel time comes, we'll be looking at people boarding the plane, thinking...assholes who got an amazing deal! I guess it doesn't matter because I'M GOING TO DISNEY WORLD!

**Oh, I forgot to mention, we're not only hotel, but airline snobs (thanks to my mom =P jk, kinda)...I'd rather pay more money for a nonstop flight on American Airlines/Delta/Continental/United than save some cash, have a layover and fly a value airline a la ATA or AirTran (are they still in business?). Hey, at least I admit I'm a snob!

Fried Chicken

2010-09-13T19:56:00.007-05:00

Ok, this post isn't really about fried chicken, instead it's about those tidbits of cooking knowledge that seem to bypass some people. Tonight, Seam is making "Oven Fried Chicken" and mashed potatoes. It's not really something I'm wanting, but I'm neither cooking nor paying for those groceries, so it's ok...I guess. I mean, I will have to clean up the mess, it's one of those give/take things...sort of, I always have to clean when Seam cooks AND I always have to clean when I cook, I swear sometimes I think I should've been a maid. However, some people, or just one, would question me about being a maid when obviously my career choices thus far are sub par...you know who you are. Moving on...

There are certain skills that Seam seems to lack, albeit he will (occasionally) listen when I correct him. For example, just because the heat is up higher does NOT mean it cooks faster, ie those steaks he made once that were black on the outside and full of blood in the middle. Also take tonight's recipe, it actually calls for boneless/skinless chicken breasts, what is he using? Leg quarters! I said, "Seam, you will have to adjust the cooking time" "Why?" he says. "Well it says boneless breasts and you have bone in dark meat chicken..." "The bone just adds flavor" "yeah well I don't care for Salmonella" I reply. Things like this make me wonder...where did I get this knowledge? I mean, I'm not saying I'm anywhere near an expert, but I do know that cooking at a lower heat is, often, preferable and I do know that dark meat chicken takes longer to cook than white. I think maybe, well I know, it's all from my mom. She's a cook...not for a living per se...but she knows how to cook and does it well. So, perhaps this knowledge has been handed down AND it doesn't hurt that, at times, I call her just for her advice regarding certain dishes.

The one thing I will say for Seam, he does make some dishes well, with variance. In other words, Seam often likes to add new things or try it a different way and, truthfully, when you have something that's not broken, don't try to fix it! That being said, I will give credit where credit is due...sometimes his food is good. So, as for "Oven Fried Chicken", the jury is still out.

UPDATE: He was going to use the enameled iron pot to cook it in since it can go in the oven, I reminded him that the recipe he's following calls for a 9X13 dish, then had to point out what a 9X13 dish looks like. So he changed his mind (correction by me taken lol). So he puts the butter in the dish and puts it in the oven to melt (recipe recommendation)...shortly after, from the living room I yell, "Seam, check the butter...it smells like it's browning!" Sure enough...yep. I think I'm aggravating him, but the truth is...I'm trying to prevent uncooked, gross chicken and, ultimately, a FIRE.

UPDATE II: Only a dish Julia Child could love. It was complete with meat cooked in lots of butter, mashed potatoes soaked in gravy....completely rich and decadent. I couldn't eat very much of it, but it was ok. The chicken tasted "baked" with a slight crust, yet still had the taste of fried chicken...no doubt due to the butter. The potatoes alone were tasty but smothered in gravy...yeah, tasted like gravy. All in all an ok meal, not for the weak of heart (literally, artery clotting).

**BY THE WAY, why the heck are chicken leg quarters $3 and boneless chicken breasts $9 for the SAME amount (lbs)???? No offense to those that are butchers, but let's get real, it's not rocket science. I guess I should just buy a freakin' whole chicken next time.***

Strange Dream

2010-09-11T18:17:00.002-05:00

So, it's Saturday afternoon, I had just got off work, had lunch and, of course, about an hour later...drowsiness sets in. I fall asleep, incidentally, I never plan naps these days, they just kinda happen lol. I had the strangest dream, it all started with my family (minus Kendra for some reason) staying in some home somewhere far away from here. I was alone in the home and noticed a bat...chaos ensued because it kept chasing me and Hero. THEN, the owners of this house came home and it turned out they were our relatives (of course, I have no idea who they actually were but in my dream...relatives). I asked about the bat flying around, they said it was surveillance from the neighbors. Then this woman (a "cousin") opened the front door where I see a wolf (a la True Blood) with glowing eyes standing in the distance. Apparently they were the neighbors...werewolves. I was then informed that I should grab my wand since I'm part warlock. Um ok. So I grabbed my wand. Let me just say, I immediately recognized "my wand"...it was a plastic chopstick (that's currently in the utensil drawer lol) that while in the dishwasher fell and landed on the heating element and is now all warped and charred in places...just my luck, a jacked up wand. Of course I had no idea how to use it but apparently the events following the wolf and the bat warranted an immediate escape. Of my family members, I was now the only one in the house, I was told they had been sent home earlier that day. Ok, I guess. We entered a small bus, similar to an airport shuttle, it had been converted inside to resemble a small apartment. Somehow, someway, I was transported to a dark desolate road in the middle of nowhere. All I had was my jacked up wand and a scooter, like a Razor scooter, I'm slowly making my way when I see lights ahead at an intersection. I come to a stop at the intersection when a man comes up behind me asking if I want some Tequila, I politely said no and went straight through this intersection...on a scooter, foot paddling away. I was scared because he started mouthing me and all I had to get away was A SCOOTER. He obviously was keeping up with me on foot...I mean, A FREAKIN' SCOOTER. Then, I suddenly remember...MY WAND! So I begin desperately trying to remember the spells/charms/whatever from Harry Potter! I suddenly had 6 wands (aka chopsticks) and pointed them in the air, yelling LUMOS! That's where the wand turns into a flashlight of sorts for those unaware lol. I thought if I did that, my "cousins" might know I'm in danger...similar to the Batman light? LMAO. So I feel like it's not working and I quickly realize that not only is there one man chasing me but THREE! I kept racking my brain, what are the other spells from that damn movie! So I yell STUPEFY! It seemed to work briefly but not long enough for me to get away. I'm now barely "scooting" past a a corn field and "wisely" decide to get off the scooter and run through the field. Of course, it didn't work! I kept turning around and yelling...STUPEFY! then PETRIFICUS TOTALUS! then ALOHOMORA! (incidentally that last charm is used to unlock doors! UGH) So magically, no pun intended, my "cousin" shows up to defend me. I wake up, mystified by the dream but still wishing I had some kind of magical powers lmao! Oh well...crazy dreams.

09/11/2001

2010-09-11T00:35:00.001-05:00

So it's been 9 years, 9 years since probably the worst act of terrorism in US history. The one "act" that occurred in my lifetime which I will never forget. It's something that happened that everyone from my generation and generations before mine will remember...where we were, what we were doing, what we saw and what we felt. It's completely and totally ingrained in my heart and mind.

I was asleep, relishing those last few minutes before I needed to actually get up for class. I was living at home at the time and my mom came into my room, "Kevin, wake up! A plane has just hit the World Trade Center in New York City." I rolled out of bed, thinking all the while, "Ugh, it was probably some small prop plane, why am I waking up for this?" We walked into the living room only to see an American Airlines passenger jet hit the other tower. I was immediately awake and wondering, "WTF is going on?!?!" Mesmerized by the news on TV, completely heartbroken that this was ACTUALLY occurring in the US, I stayed glued to the TV. We heard reports of a car bomb outside the Department of State...then a plane hit the Pentagon. I remember sitting there, completely enthralled, then asking my mom, "What is happening?!?!? We are being attacked!" Then we heard of the plane going down in Pennsylvania. It was a very tough, remarkably emotional day. I didn't have to decide whether or not to go to class, it had been cancelled, the school had been closed. That, in itself, spoke volumes.

The magnitude of the day was only exponentially felt when I watched the World Trade Center towers come crashing down. I, personally, couldn't take my eyes away from news. I needed to know everything, I wanted more information, I felt the American resolve deep in my soul. Nothing could break my love for this country, this heinous attack on our own soil made it even more strong. American resolve...that was heard for weeks and years following September 11, 2001. It was true though, everyone loved each other a little more, felt grateful a little more...then somehow "blame" became the name of the game. Sure blame is human nature, but it's STILL gone a bit too far. I would love to take a powerful blow, a spit to the face, a removal of fingernail (or ten) to those involved in those attacks...BUT they're gone. GONE. More importantly...we will never be able to get back those loved ones lost, those people who fought for the survivors and were never found, those who risked their lives to save someone and lost theirs in the process, those who continue to risk their lives for our country but never return. We cannot get them back. We can't. We can only remember those lost, in every respect, no death should be in vain. We MUST learn to direct our hatred of these acts to a certain group of religious zealots that made our life Hell, and in many ways, continue to do so. However, we must ALSO be the bigger persons. Whether Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu or any of the like, we MUST remain vigilant. Religious zealots have continued to prey on weaknesses AND that goes for ALL sides. I just hope for a world, a nation, a people...that can, for once, accept people for what they believe, regardless of difference and live in harmony...just continue being ourselves.

Today, I remember...everything. While I wish this day never existed in our history, it did and still, we are a nation united. For that, I am eternally grateful. I have decided to post a video, as many already have for this occasion; however, while I could post a video with images of the actual attacks set to music, I've chosen to post a video that I felt was most poignant following that day. These videos showcase how others from around the world showed their support for OUR country.

Our National Anthem at Buckingham Palace in London

Arkansas...the rest of the story

2010-09-04T00:46:00.005-05:00

Day 2...

I was "supposed" to cook breakfast after Seam returned from fishing but...well...it didn't happen. He woke up fairly early to go fishing and returned home after my 3rd cup of coffee. He wanted to go canoeing, I wasn't "thrilled" about this but, believe it or not, I wanted to go. I had considered a hike, picnic lunch, fishing and the like...but CANOEING was apparently already in order. So we headed to the office to "book" our little canoe trip. Afterwards we walked towards the bus with our supplies...cooler with some sandwiches, drinks, etc, and, OF COURSE, fishing equipment. Ok, this was a problem...the BUS, if you can call it that...looked brokedown and resembled something you would find in a junkyard. However, the driver arrived via ATV and asked us to get in...FORESHADOW...his name is Pancho and is a good ol' Arkansas hillbilly. He drove us to our launch point aka under a bridge...FORESHADOW #2...and got our canoe ready for launch. Ok, so we get in this little "boat" and the FIRST thing I notice is...OMG I HAVE TO BALANCE MYSELF AT ALL TIMES!?!?!?! It was immediately awful, I was looking (kinda) forward to a peaceful trip...I should've known.

We head down the river, I was expecting beautiful bluffs and forest from The Natural State. Yeah, no, we might as well have been canoeing down the creek near my parent's house. I mean it was ok, it was pretty by all accounts but not what I was expecting. "Balance Kevin!" I kept telling myself...yep, paranoia was the name of the game. We continued and I swear, half the time, we were having to get out of the canoe, pick it up and carry it over the lower levels of water...irritating (sort of). I mean the ACTUAL lower levels resembled a mountain stream, so that was nice BUT, when we got to the giant boulders in the water and all we had to stand on were those huge rocks (with the water otherwise up to 5ft on either side) THAT pissed me off lol. Basically not only were we teetering on the canoe BUT the rocks as well then having to get back in the canoe was a chore! Anyway, ultimately it was ok, but I swear we started looking religiously for that tent (aka pick up point) about a mile before we made it there. I've never been so happy to see an Arkansas hillbilly next to a broke down bus in my life!

Day 3...

Late that morning, we headed for Hot Springs, just to sight see and check it out. I've been there once as a teenager but only briefly, I think we primarily drove through it. It was nice, a little ghetto, but Hot Springs Township was nice. We had lunch at a fairly nice Italian place and then drove around sightseeing. Seam was a bit confused, he thought we'd be able to hike to an actual "hot spring" and go swimming; however, I had to let him know...nope, those "hot springs" are fed into the bathhouses along the main road in Hot Springs National Park. Sorry but "bathhouse" brings to mind VERY dirty conditions, in more ways than one, but I'm sure it's clean...I mean it IS a national park, right? So that was a let down for him. Anyway, that afternoon, we headed back to Oden, AR aka Deliverance. Seam went fishing...again...while I stayed at the cabin. We were going to grill out Ribeye's and any fish Seam caught plus baked potatoes and salad...sounds good right?

Well this is how it all played out...

Seam arrived at the cabin and attempted to clean the fish he caught, then went to start the grill. I had already seasoned the Ribeye's and they had been begging for the hot fire of the grill for a couple hours...yum. Charcoal to grill, flame to charcoal...then a sudden and incredibly loud sound! It sounded to me like a gunshot from our roof, so much so that I almost hit the deck...LITERALLY. I then noticed that the trash can lid on the front deck had been removed (incidentally earlier that afternoon, I saw that it looked halfway open so I closed it, it WAS closed) and was laying on the deck....trash bag inside shredded. Of course, I know that a raccoon was most likely the culprit BUT it was the last straw for Seam. He said, "Let's go home tonight!" I replied with, "Are you serious? We paid $150 just for tonight! Plus we still have to clean the cabin and we have food ready to cook." "I don't care! I'll lose the money, I don't care! Let's go!" he defiantly responded. So we packed quickly and cleaned up as best as...well ok...as best as I could in that short period of time and headed out. Originally we had considered staying in a hotel in Texarkana, but decided to just drive the extra distance home. We arrived in Plano around 3am. I was informed..."NEVER AGAIN!"...we'll just see about that lol. I mean I understand and respect his fears (forests to be precise) but we were in a crazy place even by my standards. Ok, well whatever lol. So yeah, at least this little weekend getaway solidified our trip to Walt Disney World in November!!! WOOHOO! At least SOMETHING good came from it! lol

River View Cabins, Oden, Arkansas

2010-08-31T21:18:00.003-05:00

So we headed out this past Saturday morning for Arkansas. A much needed trip for Seam, we left around 8:30am after loading up the car and leaving Hero in boarding. We followed the directions from the "Maps" on the iPhone, which seemed to lead us off the beaten path through Oklahoma and into Arkansas. Let me just say, after heading West from Atoka, OK, there was NOTHING except dotted homes and dirt roads...we kept thinking, "Where do these people get gas or buy groceries?" Still, we continued. We reached Mena, AR and ate lunch at a VERY small McDonalds, then bought some groceries at a Walmart Supercenter. Perhaps I'm "sheltered" but Mena, AR has a pop of 5k, so it's literally, the biggest "city" around...strange to me but should have been very indicative of what was to come. So, we got some supplies and headed to our cabin, in Oden, AR (pop 227). I should've known then just how "secluded" we were going to be, but after spending almost $200 as a deposit for ONE night, we HAD to continue on. Now, don't get me wrong, it was a beautiful, country drive, but what awaited us was a mystery.

We, finally, arrived at the Riverview Cabins and checked in at the office. It was a very "understated" check-in, but that was to be expected given the area I suppose. We got to our cabin, #3 "A Little Country", and stepped inside. The best way to explain it is this...it was well built, smelled of pine and various timber, the furnishings were ok...quilts on the beds, various knick-knacks throughout. However, what irritated me was the kitchen utensils, silverware, plates, cups, bowls, etc. Everything was mismatched and completely odd. I thought to myself, "Kevin, you're being a snob...it's ok, no biggie!" So I went on. The back deck was completely surrounded by trees, not like a "forest" per se but overgrown brush/trees. So, privacy was in order...not that it mattered but ok. I sat down in a wrought iron chair facing the "forest", only to turn my head and see an Assassin bug EATING a Cicada! I jumped from my chair and quickly noticed that, just behind my head where I was sitting on the window, there was a 7" STICK BUG...yeah, I grabbed the OFF and sprayed, then felt sad as they stumbled off to die. I knew then, it might be a LONG weekend...

Lady Gaga

2010-07-31T21:09:00.003-05:00

As many of you may know, Seam and I recently attended her concert at the AA Center in Dallas last weekend. I'm not the Lady Gaga fan here, I mean I like her music but I wasn't a "huge" fan. That being said, after seeing her live...I have to admit, I have a COMPLETELY new appreciation for her and not only as a performer, but as a person. She was absolutely unafraid to speak out, completely unafraid to accept anyone LABELED as "different" and unconditionally unafraid to make anyone and EVERYONE feel totally welcome and appreciated. Of course, the visuals of the concert and the performances were, without a doubt, certainly surreal (in a good way lol). However, her words were what I found to be so...well...comforting. Now I realize that many people have low tolerance for her style and think she's nuts, but avant garde performance has always existed, in every medium and in every decade really. It's just something new, out of the norm, that people are adjusting to; however, she's such an accepting person. I've only ever felt "safe", if you will, in those "designated" areas where it's "okay". Now don't get me wrong, I've always accepted myself, I'm comfortable in my own skin (well, ya know, except for the obvious physical flaws lol), but somehow...in a place where it's seemingly not ok to even hold the hand of the one you love, she made it...OK. It's strange how dissimilar people are and yet everyone, different from him or her-self, see those people as "peculiar" or worse. Does that even make sense? I don't know, I don't care really...I've moved beyond, long ago, caring what other's think of me and my life. I was created as I am. There was never a "choice". So, ok, going back to Lady Gaga....her show was absolutely A-MAZING and I look forward to seeing her again in concert....THAT good, yes! Here is what she says about the experience...

"The Monsterball is by nature a protest: A youth church experience to speak out and celebrate against all forms of discrimination + prejudice."

Of course there is profane language and inuendo used in the concert, but seriously, the same can be seen on television....ok, cable lol. I just think that she's making a difference, even if it's small, she's making a difference. Like it or not, as a society, we are evolving.

Oh and enjoy these crappy videos from the concert lol...they're either out-of-focus or Seam was dancing, either way, you get the gist.

Fourth of July

2010-07-04T21:13:00.003-05:00

Today, we take time to celebrate our nation, our freedom, our democracy and, ultimately, the birth of the United States of America. I'm proud to be from this country, I'm proud to say I'm American. With that, I post this video, a beautiful song set to beautiful images of our nation and those that continue to protect us and keep us free. Let us never forget our forefathers, who had a vision of a nation free from persecution, where everyone is an equal and all those lives lost so that we may live in a country of freedom....

This song, I believe, was written following the events of 9/11, a day and time we will ALL remember. We will ALL remember where we were and what we were doing when we heard of this tragedy. Yet, the American spirit continues to endure. It's what this great nation is all about. We will always remember and continue to forge ahead.

HAPPY 4th of JULY!!!

FML

2010-05-31T23:22:00.004-05:00

Are you familiar with that sentiment? If not, it stands for F*** My Life. Yeah, that's how I'm feeling at this moment. I got a text close to 10:30 tonight from a friend that I work with letting me know that her grandfather was on his deathbed and would not be making it through the night. I felt compassion and sympathy for her immediately. Then I received a text asking if I could work for her tomorrow from both my manager and her. The usual answer would be...YES, without a doubt, I'd hope the same from those I consider both friends and coworkers. However, I already have so much planned and scheduled for tomorrow and this was completely late notice. Yes, I understand tragedy strikes at any time and what I'm saying, in no way, is directed towards the loss of her grandfather. My point in the matter is this...I feel extremely guilty for continuing to make use of a day I am supposed to be off work. Sure, were I to be sitting on my ass watching TV or playing a round of golf or the like, I would certainly drop those things and go to work. It's who I am, it's what I do. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm probably declining going to work tomorow for similar frivolous reasons BUT I've already rescheduled these things a couple of times and, without a doubt, in the end, it WILL cost me money if they don't take place. Just ONE example, my car was due for a 90 day service April 18th and it's yet to be done...just one of the things I plan on doing tomorrow. Again, it's probably not on that certain level of "importance" BUT it IS my day off AND I have things planned, so why do I still feel guilty???? FML.

Westboro Baptist Church

2010-05-30T13:29:00.008-05:00

I suppose this is nothing new to most people, I'm certain most American's have heard news stories regarding Westboro Baptist Church (WBC) and Fred Phelps, and if you haven't, I apologize in advance for bringing such hatred to light. That being said, I ran across a news article today regarding WBC's plan to picket the memorial service of rocker Ronnie James Dio. They plan to picket this service because they believe Dio worshipped Satan. Apparently, according to CNN:

"Charges of devil-worshipping have often been leveled against heavy metal music. Dio, in particular, was a favorite target. He popularized the "devil's horn" gesture, where the index and the little fingers are upright and the thumb is clasped against the two middle fingers. He has said he was taught by the sign by his superstitious Italian grandmother as a way to ward off the "evil eye." But many fundamentalist Christians have taken issue with the gesture, alleging that it is a tribute to the devil."

Ok, so this is extremism right? Are we on the same page? How about we move on from this ONE example. This group is also known for picketing soldier's funerals and complete intolerance of homosexuals. So, since there are three sides to every story...mine, yours and the truth...I took it upon myself to set my prejudice, bias, own personal hatred aside and look at their website, primarily to get some idea as to their philosophy for their actions. Unfortunately, the website has not been available all day (a bad sign? or good?) and I, personally, REFUSE to type the actual address into the browser because the website address alone is incredibly offensive to me. So since I can't see the "other" side of the story and take an honest, informed approach to my opinion, I'll continue on my rampage against this so called church. I call it a rampage because everything I've seen, read and heard causes my blood to boil. I don't even see how they can tout themselves as "religion", sure some of their viewpoints may slightly coincide with other religions; however, the difference is, they make everything public and ridiculous while other religions may or may not speak about it within their own "house". Sure, maybe it's no better but at least I don't have to hear about it or see it on the news and it's definitely NOT as extreme. I mean even the most religious people I know would never picket a soldier's funeral or picket with signs exclaiming, "GOD HATES FAGS", at least I hope not. However, the most disturbing thing about this church is, the apparent brainwashing of the children. It's like a continuous cycle of hate and while I'm neither religious nor claim to have even a decent grasp of Christianity (meaning the Bible), I know that hatred is not the goal. Oh and speaking of picketing a soldier's funeral, how dare they? HOW DARE THEY?!?! They are basically spitting in the face of those who protect this country and thereby PROTECT their ability to spew such hatred via Freedom of Speech aka the First Amendment. Although, as long as I'm on the subject, I really don't think their propaganda should be considered "Free Speech" but that's just me.

The very thoughts, ideas, irrational behavior and disprespectful ignorance exhaled from every breath of this cultish-"church" is a devastating blow to humanity. As a people, we can never evolve as long as there are those choosing and educating the youth to hate, not only their fellow man, but the country in which they live. It's sad, it's pathetic and I truly feel sorry for them. Were they to truly be the gateway to Heaven, I'm happy to be in hell.

Take a look at this video, if you can/want to. I just cannot believe it, although the host of the show does a great job reflecting a lot of what I feel lol.

**Disclaimer: It is not my intent to offend anyone by this post, well except those member's of WBC. If something I've said offends those of you, who are not members of WBC, then I apologize. However, I would like to hear your viewpoints.

Unfathomable

2010-05-30T12:34:00.002-05:00

As many of you know, there's a huge oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico...and it's yet to be stopped. According to all news reports BP is working diligently to get it contained, however, every effort thus far has been an effort in futility. It seems the US is now experiencing the worst environmental disaster in history...in HISTORY! The sad thing is, we've yet to see the true effects of this disaster and, maybe we won't, maybe I'm just thinking the worst. However, here are a few numbers...it's estimated that 798,000 gallons of oil are being leaked into the Gulf of Mexico daily, which means since it began....roughly more than 25,536,000 gallons or 608,000 barrels are NOW in the Gulf. It is larger than the Exxon Valdez disaster in 1989. It's been more than 20 years since that happened and Prince William Sound is still recovering. I find it troubling that, in my lifetime, I've seen two horrific oil-related disasters. At what cost are we willing to continue to find oil? Now, don't get me wrong, I love my gas guzzling car (may be hypocritical but it's true) and I'm far from a tree hugger, but it only takes a smidgen of common sense to understand the effects oil was/is/will be having on nature. The current catastrophe, in the Gulf, is a ticking time bomb. Slowly we are beginning to see the effects, but just how much damage has it yet to inflict? It's unfathomable.

Anger

2010-05-26T20:08:00.004-05:00

Sometimes I've wondered, through this blog journey, if people think I have a lot of pent up anger. There are times that I've looked back and a lot of what I say is ranting, bitching, etc...so it makes me wonder, do you think I'm just an angry person?

I will say this, there are numerous upon numerous things that irritate the crap out of me and I use this as a medium to vent those frustrations. At times, I've thought, why not have a light, airy, "we are the world"-type post...the problem is, the few times I've actually posted something like that, it comes across, at least to me, as...well...corny. I mean, I'd post more about my nieces or Disney or my dogs or my relationship, but I'd just be bragging and/or gushing lol. (My nieces are kinda off limits in this forum, for the most part, because the sheer pride and joy they bring me is immeasurable. See? Corny)

So basically, I apologize, but sometimes being bitchy is just how I feel and, that my friends, is why I continue to blog! So, to answer the question at hand, I'm not an angry person, I just want to share my cynical view of the world with everyone...it's true. It's a bit ironic though, because I'm neither sneering nor pessimistic...I'm just me.

Oh and as for my nieces and family, Disney, my dogs or my relationship...let's just say...I'm continuously fumbling for words to describe just how happy they make me. I am sincerely blessed and truly thankful...I won the lottery of life and I'm well aware of that.

A comment

2010-05-26T19:27:00.002-05:00

While at work this afternoon, a client came in to buy some heartworm protection for her pets. She was, of course, on her cell phone, which I find rude, but that's just me. So, she's having this conversation, rather loudly, in the lobby, so no one can help but to listen to what she says.

As an aside, this client is known for being rude, a bit uncooth, snobby and is married to an "ambulance chaser". (Yeah I'm passing judgement...touche)

Moving on, she's on the phone and says this, "Well you know our school has been downgraded from Recognized to Under Performing (or something similar). Mmm hmm, yeah, it's because of all those African American kids." I think at that moment, my eyes must've become red. Fortunately I was not helping her, or she'd, at the very least, be overcharged. Now, I was informed that the state does clump test scores based on ethnicity and that can affect the overall "grade" of said school, I'm not really sure and it doesn't matter truthfully. My point is this, why on EARTH, would you say something like that at all, much less within ear shot of anyone you don't know? Regardless of the validity of test scores and the state and your school's grades...someone will be offended! I mean it's not like she said something to the effect of, "I hate ice cream and that's why people are fat!" Nope, the aforementioned comment can obviously be misconstrued as racist, assuming she was referring to the state's performance guidelines or whatever. That being said, I don't care who you are...THINK before you speak! Granted people get irritated with being "politically correct" but welcome to the world you live in. I even walk a fine line between political correctness and my reality sometimes, I mean we're only human right? I, however, have enough sense to know what I'm saying and to whom. It's funny how one COMMENT can make a person completely disgusting to another.

The Black Sheep

2010-05-25T18:53:00.005-05:00

I recently came across some commentary that amused me. It amuses me because it's a perfect example of something I find to be a pet peeve. There are a great number of people out there that seem to have some form of aversion towards "conformity". This opposition is apparently directed to any and all forms of societal trends, whether it be clothing, music or, hey, a commercial. The issue I take is this...just because you don't watch television, you only read certain books or listen to certain music, take solace in the lyrics of some obscure artist, find comfort in random art or choose to have your "own" sense of style...that DOES NOT make you any more "enlightened" than myself. You are your own person, congratulations, so am I. In other words, just because you don't like the television shows I'm a fan of or like the music I choose to listen to, you are none the wiser. I do not make myself out to be more than I am, unlike many of these so-called non-conformists, seems like it's a personal issue. Of course, I'm not suggesting anyone SHOULD like television or a particular author, etc, I'm just saying that I don't choose to like something because the "masses" like it, I choose it for myself...but thanks for playing. Do I sound bitter? I might be. I remember once when someone actually had the audacity to say, to my face no less, that if people like Disney, they are conforming...my response, "Just because you've never been, doesn't give you the right to hate on me." Sure, it was a juvenile response, as if I was better than this person because I had been to Walt Disney World, but still, why is it that animated tales of magic for children are suddenly ridiculed because it has a history in our society? I for one think it's spectacular, why you ask? It is because it helps children to use their imagination instead of their imagination being inhibited by those either providing a continuous stream of stimuli or telling them that having an imagination is a waste...so there. Walt Disney is quoted as saying, "The era we are living in today is a dream coming true" it actually speaks the truth right? I know, that was a bit of a rant, I'll step off that soap box and back on the other LOL. Basically all I'm saying is this, and I'm well aware I've said it before but here goes...to be a "non-conformist" means you are conforming to something. Afterall, were you to say "conforming" Americans are all sheep, I will just say...a BLACK sheep is STILL a part of the herd. Like it or leave it.

Simply Amazing

2010-05-22T23:47:00.006-05:00

Some of you may know we had a "photo shoot" of my nieces yesterday. Jessica Claytor was the photographer and, judging by these preview pictures, she has done it once again. I've seen her work before from various friends on Facebook, so one day I decided, "Why not get some pictures of my beautiful nieces!". This is the outcome and, I must say, I am ecstatic. I love these pictures. She is an amazing photographer and does such a wonderful job working with kids! I was unable to attend the photo shoot due to work but heard nothing but absolute RAVE reviews from my mom and sister. I'm so happy, I can't wait to have the pictures blown up and framed to hang in my living room...awesome, just awesome! If you want her contact info, let me know. She's extremely talented and, quite simply, amazing.

Is it just me?

2010-05-16T20:14:00.006-05:00

While I understand people's fascination with the weather, it's bewildering me at the moment. Sure, it's "beautiful" outside (I personally just think it's miserable lol) but this is SPRING in North Texas and we've yet to see any kind of real thunderstorm and given the date, it's a bit disturbing. Oh and please stop thinking, "Oh Kevin, you'll jinx us!" because that's just silly, unless of course you've recently moved here from a state that has no history of the types of thunderstorms we typically get in spring. However, if you grew up here or have lived here long enough, you KNOW what I'm talking about. Sure while some of you are out and about enjoying this supposed "beautiful" weather, something has gone awry with our weather patterns...11" of snow in Feb, no thunderstorms in spring and, what's next, a serious drought in the summer? Who knows, things are strange but, maybe it's just me.

WOOHOO!!

2010-05-05T20:54:00.004-05:00

I am SOOOOOO excited!! We got the tickets in the mail today and, I have to say, it was like opening a Christmas present....I love Carrie Underwood and I'm so happy to get to go AND have decent seats! LOL...ok, I'm done now. =)

Disney's Most Outrageous Hidden Messages

2010-05-02T19:41:00.002-05:00

I felt the need to respond to this given many people on Facebook seemingly believe, for some reason, that there are hidden messages in Disney film. The answer, quite simply, is...true, at ONE time. They were NEVER there because of DISNEY, they were there because of the animators (if you will). Each "hidden message" was changed when found because, as most of you SHOULD know, DISNEY is not about sexual innuendo. That being said, I've even heard one person go so far as to say (a person ON the Disney internship no less) that "Disney creates these hidden messages to make children gay." Needless to say, this person is/was/will apparently always be an idiot and slipped through the cracks and into the internship. Every single "hidden message" has been changed, long ago, and will never be seen in any DVD you purchase...why? Well, Disney has a reputation to uphold and that reputation far exceeds any cartoonist's agenda, any person's ignorance or those that claim "to like Disney is to conform." To those non-conformists...by not "conforming" you ARE conforming...unless you've become Amish and if so, congrats on CONFORMING to Amish society! So in other words...get a freakin' life people. =)

Concerts

2010-04-26T18:31:00.002-05:00

Now I'm not one that has ever really enjoyed concerts. I mean sure I've seen a few and based my judgements solely on those. However, I'm not a fan of crowds, especially those full of teenagers. I actually have a real issue with teenagers, but that's another story. You see, I hate that feeling of having to "compete" to see the person I've paid good money to see. Does that make any sense? lol. So, if I cannot get good, and I mean GOOD seats, then it's really not worth it in my opinion. That being said, Seam was hell bent on going to see Lady Gaga this Summer. So concert #1, July 22nd, we tried the presale for Citi card holders, no such luck...actually a bad experience for Seam, so we won't talk about it. Then we tried the General Public sale, no luck again...as a matter of fact the tickets sold out within minutes. (Probably due to those ticket hounds that buy 100 at a time...assholes, another peeve) So, luckily, we found out that she is putting on another show because of the demand, so FORTUNATELY for HIM...we got tickets, lower level to see Lady Gaga in July. I know he's pumped, I'll live. I do like some of her music and I'm certain she puts on a good show, so we'll see.

NOW for the AWESOME news!!!! Thankfully, due to the same source that let us know about Gaga's second show, I found out when Carrie Underwood's tickets went on sale. Yes, I was determined. So, the presale was for "Fan Club Members" only, couldn't find a password to save my life. SO, they offered a deal where if you BECOME a member of the fan club AND buy tickets, you could take advantage of the presale. HELL YEAH! We got FLOOR seats for CARRIE FRICKIN' UNDERWOOD!!! So, yeah, needless to say...pay back is a bitch. I'll see Lady Gaga so I can see Carrie from EVEN better seats! LOL Oh, I forgot, I'm not a fan of concerts...yeah about that.... =)

The Holocaust

2010-04-26T18:30:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I realize the title of this blog alone is a bummer but I've been putting off blogging about this long enough for fear of possibly hurting someone's feelings. However, since I've not spoken to this person in well over 15 years, I think it's ok. Recently on Facebook, someone posted how they've been reading on the Holocaust after a recent trip to the Middle East. Ok, so then this person goes on to say..."I didn't realize just how bad things were in that time period." Alright, for starters, there was a World War going on, that's bad enough BUT the fact that thousands were subject to genocide, not only including those of Jewish faith, but countless others makes it FAR worse. I would understand if you grew up in the jungle like Mowgli and had no idea, I'd understand if you were an impoverished child growing up in a third world country, I might even understand if you were mentally disabled...but you're not. Hence, my distinct reply...shame on you. However, I will give you the benefit of a doubt BECAUSE perhaps you were referring to something else regarding that time period, something obscure or not available via a standard history textbook, numerous novels including Anne Franke, the movie industry including Schindler's List...maybe, just maybe, it was something different. Regardless, your post reflected ignorance and I felt sorry for you. I think it's imperative for everyone to understand history, to know what ACTUALLY took place in order for the human race to evolve beyond arrogance, ignorance and disdain. Sure, that's something unattainable, heck we can't even attain that in our own country but if we don't try, then all those that perished before us, died in vain.

Just a note: This is obviously an attempt to get my opinion out following said post on Facebook. Should this person be referring to something completely different, I apologize but hope others will reflect upon this message. Afterall, the internet can only tell a person so much and I was simply describing my feelings when reading what was written. If I am correct in this ignorance, then again...shame on you...BUT congratulations on enlightening yourself to that severe stain in the pages of history.

Choices

2010-04-20T19:49:00.003-05:00

As many of you know, I decided to go back to school last year and I'm currently completing my second semester. The bad thing about this is, I went into it not really knowing what I want to do. I've always had that question for myself, even while completing the degree I currently hold...what do I really want to do? I cannot say I've come to any real conclusion, it's as though there are numerous things I wanted to do, all of which require lots of school. So, I felt then, and feel now, almost defeated. However, one thing I've always viewed as a "dream job" is travel writing. Will I ever be able to access such a career? Perhaps not. That being said, I have decided to enter into the field of journalism. If there is one thing I've almost always felt confident in, it's writing. Now, some of you will probably start judging my blog posts...please don't, most of it is a combination of abstract thought, bitching and a touch of sentimentality. Yeah, I know...brilliance. I'm kidding, really I am. So, yeah...journalism. Now, according to UNT guidelines, I must take the GSP test before even being able to enroll in the ONE class that's required for journalism students...News Writing! Seriously, don't they know I won first place in UIL News Writing back when I was a sophomore in high school?!?!?! I'm kidding...kinda lol. So I have to take this "Grammar-Spelling-Punctuation" test and I'm hoping to take it this summer, if not before. I'm not saying I'm the best at this stuff, but I know it irritates the heck out of me when I see people using Grammar-Spelling-Punctuation incorrectly...who knows, could be a good thing right? Ehh, we'll see. Basically I enjoy writing, always have. I even started writing a book when I was 13, it was about a group of seniors that get lost in the rain forest on their senior trip. Yeah, it sounds like a massive B-movie, but I digress. I even have a story I wrote in the 6th grade that I'm still proud of, so maybe that says something? Heh, yeah I don't know either. Who knows what the future holds but, I do know, it's full of choices.

Fascinating video

2010-04-09T19:06:00.002-05:00

I recently came across this video. It's said to be one of the first 35mm videos taken and this one was strapped to the front of a cable car in San Francisco. The Youtube video says 1905, but it is now believed to be from 1906 and just 4 days before the infamous San Francisco earthquake. Take a look...

Yeah, I realize it's just a video of a street and it's something many may find boring or the like. However, for me, it's an absolute fascination. Why? Well for starters, I am able to ACTUALLY see a glimpse into the past. I mean we're talking over a CENTURY ago. To me, that's simply amazing. This is no movie set, these are real people, real cars, real horse drawn carriages. Some of these buildings made it through that earthquake but I'm certain many of these people did not. There's really not much more I can say about it, I'm simply amazed.

In case you're wondering what it looks like today, take a look at the video below...

Being 30

2010-03-30T18:09:00.004-05:00

I realize many people look at turning 30 with disgust or even disdain. I'm not quite sure why but I suppose they feel that by ending their 20's, that means they're truly getting "older" or maybe they feel like "now I have to be an adult". I never really looked at my age that way, I saw it as just another day with a touch of the whole milestone thing. However, I don't feel any different, I don't act differently...or do I? I know it's not about being 30, it's about having experienced many things, learned from them and applying those lessons to everyday life. Does that make me wise? To some degree, I'd like to think so anyway, but not completely...afterall, I am only 30. I bring this up because I've watched recently as someone I know, fairly well, has opted to live her life in such a way that I cannot help but question her motives. She's smart, beautiful and lively. She feels that it's time for her to live her life carefree and enjoy her youth. I call her methods...reckless abandon. I find the way I feel about this situation almost new territory for me. Have I been there, definitely, and I came out of it for the better but will she? I don't know, I suppose it's not my place to guess. However, when I'm asked for advice or shared details from last nights festivities, I can't help but think, "Man, am I glad I don't live your life." It must be exhausting to always go out, get drunk/high and sleep around. Yep. So, my point is, in a way, I'm watching someone figure out life on their own terms and my advice to her, when asked, is always based on my own experience but it's seen as coming from someone older. It's difficult to watch a friend begin a tumble downhill, I want to grab her by the arm and stop it, but, sometimes, you've gotta tumble down that hill so you'll know next time how to keep your footing.

I must say, it's nice being on the other side. Don't get me wrong, I'm no better than her but I am glad that I'm in a place where I'm content just staying home and, yes, being an adult.

I'm not looking for an argument...

2010-03-24T18:35:00.006-05:00

Just wanted to say that before I say anything that some may deem "politically charged". So there's your disclaimer. My point in this post is to continue with a thought that, unfortunately, provoked some people to come at me with the claws out. Perhaps it was my misuse of syntax or their lack of control, either way, it no longer matters. However, following the passing of healthcare reform, I've seen numerous posts and affiliations on Facebook (yeah I know) with *almost* hatred towards our government and those who support it. It's really kinda sad but that's the beauty of the country we live in, anyone is able to express any emotion, thought or idea in any way they want...well almost anyway, I mean as long as it's legal lol. So, while I will admit I am neither for or against this reform, I am certain however that healthcare needs to, no MUST, be reformed. When most are faced with making a decision whether to support this or not, I've found that people reflect on their personal situations, their experiences and the like, which is what one should do as an adult. However, when you're not even able to consider the other side of a story, that's when things, in my opinion, become juvenile. I truly believe that were our forefathers able to return here on Earth and see what kind of nation we've become, and I know I'm not alone in this, they may just be a wee bit disheartened. Now, I'm not referring to politics in that statement, for goodness sake the Republican party didn't exist until 1854 and for the Democrats 1790. Last I checked, the US became an independent country in 1776. So, while my history may fail me, the point remains, our forefathers most likely could not fathom at that time what bickering and, almost elitism, they would find in 21st century America, yet that's where we stand. No one side is COMPLETELY willing to look at the other side. Perhaps it's fear, who knows. However, those polarizing figures from both sides of this health care reform lack the wherewithal to just take a peak at the other side.

So, having said this, I turn to those people who matter most to me, my family. I KNOW this reform will help them. For those of you shaking your head, give me a minute. My parents both work, never looking for a handout but not seeking medical attention they need, why? They cannot afford it. When your only option due to pre-existing conditions is COBRA, or similar, and it would cost almost $1500 monthly (aka your mortgage), it's no surprise they don't have insurance. They need it though and that worries me. So, by and large, I'm for this healthcare reform and I'll continue paying monthly for my own health insurance, which will remain intact. I just feel that some people need a bit of an education when it comes to healthcare reform...not only regarding the guidelines themselves but life in general. In the words of Beth Stevens (have to cite lol), "Be empathetic." Afterall, empathy is the most important element of compassion and, again, were our forefathers to come back here on Earth and see that there is little compassion for our fellow man, then they have failed and so have we.

By the way, check out this article and this. Just found it interesting...

Oh and this one ...some Americans are just "awesome"

Once again, just saying that I found them interesting. That's all.

ALDI's

2010-03-21T21:16:00.003-05:00

As many of you know, Seam is a manager for the ALDI grocery stores. So I feel inclined to blog about it because there seems to be a stigma regarding this store, at least according to some forums we frequent. Let me start off by saying that ALDI's is NOT your typical grocery store and do not expect it to resemble a Whole Foods or Tom Thumb, envision a mini Costco. It, however, WILL save you money unlike the aforementioned stores. The primary focus of ALDI's is to save the consumer some cash, something most Texans are unfamiliar with. Oh wait, there was Food Lion but, unlike Food Lion, ALDI's does not take second rate foods (similar to a clothing outlet). Instead they provide consumables under their own private label, ALL made by the manufacturers of name brand products you know and love. Here's the catch, ALDI's leases space in what is deemed "second rate" locations, they charge a quarter for a shopping cart (which you get back when the cart is returned to the proper place), they do not bag your groceries (you can bring your own reusable bags for a "greener" world OR purchase bags for 6 cents or so while there...IKEA?), there is no real merchandising and minimal, yet efficient, staff...why, you ask? This is all so the savings are passed on to the consumer. Unlike places such as WalMart, make no mistake, ALDI's employees are compensated well via salary and benefits hence the customer service you receive and the minimal check out time (the cashiers are actually timed to make sure all things continue running smoothly). Seriously, I'd love it if the person ahead of me only took 2 minutes (max time) to check out with a cart full of groceries...when was the last time that occurred at WalMart or Tom Thumb (longest check out lines EVER). They do not accept credit cards or checks, instead they rely on pin-based debit cards, cash and even Lonestar cards because this too keeps cost at a minimum. All this being said, why not give it a legitimate shot? I mean, it will save money and the food is quality stuff. Since living in KS, we've always had stuff from ALDI's and it's good stuff, so why not try it? Oh yeah, the "stigma". I realize that the store that's just opened in Frisco may not make it, why? Because too many people in Frisco would be/are so afraid that they'll be "seen" buying groceries at a discount grocer...seriously. It's the truth.

So, anyway, moving on. Seam recently came home with 2 huge bags of groceries and I'd like to share SOME of the products & prices with you. I say some because he bought some crap that Seam would only buy lol and that goes for ANY grocery store....I mean Mango nectar? C'mon. So here we go:

Gallon of milk...$1.79
Cinnamon Crunch cereal (aka Cinnamon Toast Crunch)...$1.89
Avocado...$0.39/ea
Whole Pineapple...$0.99
Pkg of Roma Tomatoes (Fresh)...$1.29
Pkg of Jalapenos (Fresh)...$0.35
Italian Diced Tomato...$0.55
93% Ground Beef...$3.17
Bag of Navel oranges...$1.39
Dozen Eggs...$1.19
Bag of White Onion...$1.99
Box of Peanut Butter Wafers (aka Nutty Buddy)...$0.99
Shells & Cheese (aka Velveeta)...$1.29
Limes...$0.15/ea
Garlic Bread (yummo)...$1.69
Parmesan Cheese...$2.49
Premium OJ...$2.39
Beef Stew Meat...$4.19

This is all just to give you an idea. By the way, ALDI foods come with a guarantee..."If for any reason you are dissatisfied with any food product. Not only will [they] replace that product BUT ALSO give you your money back". Not bad right? It's actually a good deal and it's not "cheaply" made stuff. It's quality food, trust me. I guess Texans just need to stop being so snobby, at least from some of the stuff we've heard. Afterall, this business model is not new to the United States. These stores have been VERY successful in the Eastern half of the US since the 70s, not to mention Europe. Apparently, they are doing something right.

Hothouse Tomato

2010-03-18T20:19:00.003-05:00

I bought a tomato today that was, in my opinion, expensive. I mean over $2 for ONE tomato is kinda insane! However, it created a slew of emotions, memories and the like. I remember my parents growing tomatoes, along with squash, peaches, plums, onions, peppers, okra, black-eyed peas, cantaloupe, sometimes watermelon, etc, in a backyard garden. So, when I realized just how expensive I felt that ONE tomato was, I remembered eating fresh, homegrown tomatoes. So fresh, in fact, I could pick it and eat it right then and there. To some, this is probably weird, but hey, I grew up in the country and things like that aren't...weird. I remember learning when to pick a squash and when it was too ripe...when picking okra was a pain in the ass because you always get those prickly things stuck in your hands. I remember when, to pick a juicy peach off a tree was a lovely treat....incidentally, to this very day, I refuse to buy peaches at a store, why? Because they could NEVER compare to those peaches we had as kids. Thanks to my great grandmother, Nanny Williams, we had plenty of peach trees but, really, only one that produced peaches that were...good. I remember walking what seemed like miles to pick corn in a field where good ol' Joe Bennett planted corn...fresh corn off the cob...the smell alone was intoxicating, like popcorn but not. Cucumbers in vinegar, a green onion with a meal as a side...the sound of Pappaws nose as he ate...it whistled lol...I miss that. My mom's squash, her beans, her telling me..."Just eat it!"...I miss that too. It's strange because, as a kid, I was never in to veggies, now I miss it. This even brought me back to when we grew strawberries in that barrel container on the back porch...I wanted them to turn red so bad, I'd eat them green, bitter face and all.

It's funny how what one "Hothouse tomato" can make you think of...keep that in mind. It only takes one little thing in life that opens up so many memories.

So, who is an expert at growing a garden on an apartment balcony????

The View

2010-03-16T20:02:00.002-05:00

No, I'm not referring to the television show. Is that even still on? Anyway, I'm referring to the things that occur in life, when we forget to actually enjoy the view. Ok, seriously, this is not about that TV show. Something I recently read made me remember a time that Seam and I went to San Francisco. Everything about this moment is/was idyllic, I just took it for granted and, for that, I have regret. See, we were on our way to Napa Valley to see some wineries, test the juice, ya know the usual. We drove across the Golden Gate Bridge, it was foggy but even through the fog you could feel the grandeur of the moment. I mean c'mon, it's the Golden Gate Bridge! We entered into a town just across the bridge, Sausalito. Thankfully my mom had informed us to check out the town. We drove around it, just on the side of the bay. It was wonderful, so we stopped. We decided to have some coffee and stopped at a coffeehouse along the water. We got our coffee and stepped out onto the deck, the salty breeze filling the air, birds abound, I remember seeing a bike out front...it was, without a doubt, idyllic. Then we turned around...the view. We were on a deck at a coffee shop in Sausalito overlooking the water and...overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge. I regret not spending more time there, being too concerned with our "schedule" and NOT just enjoying the moment. We will return one day, if nothing but to simply enjoy the view.

Precious

2010-03-16T18:57:00.003-05:00

I recently watched the movie Precious. I watched because I knew it had to be a good movie given all the accolades it's garnered, plus the reviews were all (mostly) great. So I gave it a shot. From the back of the case, it reads....

"Precious Jones, an inner-city high school girl, is illiterate, overweight and pregnant...again. Naive and abused, Precious responds to a glimmer of hope when the door is opened by an alternative-school teacher. She is faced with the choice to follow opportunity and test her own boundaries. Prepare for shock, revelation and celebration."

Let me first say, the term "shock" is an understatement. I was livid, pissed off and hurt, all in one, by this film. It's strange when a movie can speak to you and I, personally, cannot get this one out of my head. I will say this, Mo'Nique DESERVED her award. Why? Because by the end of the movie, I wanted to knock her ass out then hug her for some reason. It actually changed my opinion of her. I mean, I've seen her on Queens of Comedy and then this? It was insanely different. So, if you're interested in watching this flick, take this into account...it's gritty, honest, powerful and sad. That being said, I loved it. I can only hope that Gabourey Sidibe continues to act and has a successful career. I, for one, am thankful this was not a true story (I think anyway). Although I'm certain there are people out there experiencing similar challenges. I hope those people gain strength from this film.

Taylor Swift...

2010-03-11T20:45:00.003-06:00

Do I think she's a legitimite artist? Sure. Do I think she's a legitimate songwriter? Sure. Do I hate her? No. Ok, that last question remains to be seen. I feel it's apropos to post regarding this issue since her concert is, probably still, going on as I type this here in Dallas. She is NOT a vocalist, by any means, AND her songs all deal with high school issues. Of course, everyone and, just about anyone, can relate in some way to her songs (I mean we all went to high school right?); however, seriously? Vocalist? No, seriously...vocalist? She cannot sing. Her "music" may be ok but her musicability is seriously lacking. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying her songwriting ability sucks or her presentation, God forbid, sucks. Vocalist. Let's go ahead and make this clear as a bell... vo-cal-ist: noun. a singer. Ok, alright, she's a "singer" but the basic definition of vocalist does not infer"singing well". She sucks in my book aka cannot carry a tune. Were it not for millions of "tweens" this poor girl would never have made it beyond her first awards show. Seriously. I mean, seriously. When you're in a category with the likes of Reba, Martina McBride, CARRIE UNDERWOOD and Miranda Lambert...SURELY she must be asking herself, "am I as deserving VOCALLY as them?" The answer is and will always be...NOPE. Poor girl, I hope she enjoys her ride because surely as a "singer/songwriter" she will eventually realize which part of that "title" she's actually decent at....oh and have I mentioned yet, it's not singer.

Flotsam and Jetsam

2010-03-08T19:10:00.004-06:00

An aplty titled blog if you ask me! You see not terribly long ago Seam officially set up the aquarium. Through the generosity of friends, we received numerous items INCLUDING two clown fish aka Nemo. So here we have this little aquarium that is, obviously, Disney themed. Ok, it's really not but how else would I allow such a time consuming and, needless to say, expensive hobby right? So it's Disney themed ("only in my mind" counts). So Seam decides one day that he really needs an eel in this tank. Why? I haven't a clue, it would literally be the FURTHEST species on my list of "musts". However, it's there now. I've been closely monitoring the little villain because, well, he eats, of all things...fish! So, I've decided to name him Flotsam, solely because of the movie The Little Mermaid. Are you seeing a pattern? Jetsam will never exist, probably because #1 Flotsam already has a death wish and it's name is Kevin and #2 Seam knows that there's no saving an eel in my book (long story short: Flotsam GOT OUT OF THE AQUARIUM and almost died...serves the idiot [eel not Seam] right!). Sooooooo, my final question to all my loyal followers, that is to say, all 3 of you...WHY would anyone EVER put a Disney Hero and a Disney Villain in the same habitat???? Only time will tell who will win the war and as of now, I foresee my culinary skills turning to sushi, that's right unagi anyone?

Flotsam and Jetsam as seen in The Little Mermaid....

Flotsam as seen in Plano, TX....

Oscar Night is Tomorrow

2010-03-06T18:02:00.003-06:00

Who's watching? I will be, probably because I'm a sucker for pop culture, well kinda anyway. I will begin this post with the fact I have NOT seen but a handful of the nominated movies. I mean, I own Up but have yet to watch it (I know! Sacrilegious!), Coraline is in the mailbox as we speak from Netflix, yeah it's gonna stay there until I'm willing to check the mail. Let's see, I saw District 9...ok, I saw about 30 minutes of the flick and turned it off...stupid movie. Oh wait, I did see Julie & Julia...great movie? You bet! Do I want Meryl Streep to win? No. While I realize her caliber of acting is amazing, I'm secretly rooting for Sandra Bullock or Gabourey Sidibe (just trying to spell her name took me 4 tries, even then I had to consult another website lol). I've seen neither Precious or The Blind Side, but still. You gotta root for someone right?

I saw one of the Documentary Feature nominees, Which Way Home. It was sad but telling of the determination CHILDREN have to get to the US simply to provide for family and/or live. I think the most disturbing portions of the documentary were the updates of the children it followed. Sad. So I'm rooting for this flick because it's the only one I've seen and it's an eye opener. Wait, why wasn't Religulous nominated? Oh well.

So you may be asking yourself, why are you watching the Oscars if you haven't even seen the majority of nominated movies? The answer is clear as a bell....BECAUSE.

Alright, alright...I'm also watching to see what people wear LOL! I know. ALSO, to hear the speeches, there are usually some great ones like the one below! Concise, to the point and, yet, speaks VOLUMES...classy.

Hattie McDaniel receiving her Oscar for one of the greatest movies, Gone With The Wind (bite your tongue). To be so graceful, heartfelt and appreciative after everything....I'm referring to the fact that she was "not allowed" to attend the premier of the movie given it was premiered in 1939 Atlanta. Times have changed, thankfully. However, this is still such a classy speech.

A Sizable Sum of Cash

2010-03-04T18:30:00.003-06:00

About a week ago, I finally gave in. Yes, Seam has had his sights set on going to the South Pacific for some time now. Will this actually come to fruition....mmm, probably not. However, I was the missing link. I refused to even consider such a place because, well, it's INSANELY expensive. Not to mention the LAST thing I want to do on vacation is spend almost an entire day in an airplane (literally, roundtrip flight=about 20 hours NOT including connections) for only 4 days in, what seems to be, paradise. Ok, scratch that last part... I mean the term "paradise", it completely kills my complaint regarding flight time. So anyway, I finally said, ok, we'll go and I'll contribute about $1000 to the trip. The SAD thing is, a grand is like a drop in the bucket when it comes to this caliber of vacation's cost. In a way, I'm regretting making the decision to give a green light. As many of you know, I'm not a "beachy, heat seeking, sun bathing, snorkeling"-type person. The sheer beauty of the place is what draws me in and, that alone, is enough. However, there are NUMEROUS other places I'd rather pay for, including, but not limited to: WALT DISNEY WORLD, Alaska, the UK, Germany, Italy, Greece, an African Safari, Japan, heck even Thailand (yum...Pad Thai lol). I guess I shouldn't complain, if he's wanting to pay (the majority anyway) for a trip to Bora Bora or Tahiti, then I should be grateful. I just can't help but wonder, what else could I see with that sizable sum of cash?

As an aside, should this trip not work out, I have numerous other ideas in mind. Most notably, taking my niece and sister to Disney, a 10 day road trip through California, ALASKA! and, of course, Italy. We'll see what happens. I mean, we may not be able to go anywhere!

A new leaf...I hope

2010-03-04T18:23:00.002-06:00

I'm going to be making a concerted effort to blog, at the VERY least, once per week. I've neglected this way too long and I'm not really sure why. I mean sure I'm working 40 hours per week, taking classes,...ummm....ok, well that's it lol. So for you loyal followers, *tap* *tap* is this thing on? All I hear are crickets! So for MYSELF then, I'll be trying to keep up. I can't promise anything super intriguing but, I'll try. See ya soon!

The "Jew"

2009-12-18T18:20:00.003-06:00

So today at work, we had a client that brought her dog in for grooming. They are very nice people and very loyal. When they came to pick up their beautiful Golden Retriever, I went to get her and brought her out. They were very pleased with the groom, even going so far as tipping the groomer for a job well done. However, upon further inspection, this client politely and quietly asked if we happened to have a blue or holiday neutral bandana since they celebrate Hanukkah. "Of course!" I replied. So I head back to the kennel to get one, when I quickly realize almost ALL the fabric used for bandanas are overtly Christmas themed. So I asked, "Do we have a simple blue bandana or something neutral since they celebrate Hanukkah?" The reply I received was unexpected and, quite honestly, offensive. I was told no and that they should just deal with the Christmas bandana and stop complaining. So I took it upon myself to look through the "uncut" fabric and found something neutral, it was pale blue with plain snowmen. I asked if we could cut it so they could have one, I was told no because "people should stop complaining about everything being Christmas themed." He went further, "Those Jews, I hear they have money but that's all I know." Needless to say I was pissed off, these people are very nice and there was no complaining. Well besides that I felt like saying you can keep those remarks to your damn self because there's no use for ignorance. So what, these clients simply celebrate a different holiday, thanks to the American way. I realize that a bandana on a dog is something minuscule in the grand scheme of things, but to use it as some sort of platform to express your frustration with something SO MUCH BIGGER than you...is ridiculous. So I ended up offering them a completely random bandana, nowhere close to blue...I believe it was dark red/cream gingham. My parting words to those staff members..."People need to realize that NUMEROUS Americans celebrate holidays in December OTHER THAN Christmas. A simple request from someone who helps keep you employed is a no brainer...MAKE IT HAPPEN!" Then as a final "slap in the face" remark, I ended it with, "Oh by the way, I celebrate Xmas, how do you like them apples?!?" My sarcasm continues to amaze me lol.

So my frustration lies in the fact that this client went without her request, to which I profusely apologized and, especially since, we normally have such bandanas. I mean afterall, there's not just one Jewish family that frequents Windhaven.

Loving Texas

2009-12-12T00:21:00.002-06:00

I don't think I would have ever said this before moving to Kansas for, what turned out to be, a couple of months but...I love Texas. Even living in that small town (aka Gunter), I would like all of you to know...we are SPOILED! I'm not meaning to compare Texas to Kansas, it's just been nice being back. I've not been on here in a while because of a few things, I go to school half time and work full time. So my time, when at home, is spent on school, relaxing, cooking, relaxing, farming (yes) and relaxing. I know I've neglected my blog and I regret that, it's nice to have an outlet of some kind. By the way, should you be on Facebook and are intrigued by Farmville, add me as a neighbor! Though, I find it humorous that some people think I actually only have time to sit here and play on Farmville, it's not the case, I'm just able to multitask well. Regardless of my faults (ie procrastination) I am able to do many things. Although, I don't have children, which some use as an excuse for lack of time but, hey, it's ok...it's only a game afterall.

So, work is good, nothing is more fulfilling than working for a paycheck, I say this because I was without one for some time. I'm happy to have seen our first snow. Actually, I was quite shocked by that. I did a double take when I looked out the window, I recalled the weatherman that night saying we wouldn't get any winter precip, then it happened. IT ACTUALLY SNOWED HERE FIRST!!!! Although Kansas has seen much worse things since that day, it was nice to experience it. My only wish is to experience it more this season, I may be alone in that but it's true no less.

Speaking of work, it's been a little awkward going back. There's a new manager and given I was able to get my job back, I took my place as the highest paid employee. So, it's awkward when I hear they are now budget conscious because I feel it's partially because of me. So it's strange when this new person comes up to me and asks if I want a certain day off. Granted I'm always given the choice, but I know I cost the hospital more than the others. I should add I'm not always the target but I KNOW when I'm asked, it's "hoped" that I'll either leave early or take a day off. So that sucks but life is good at the moment. Just wanted to share!

It's Good To Be Home...

2009-11-14T21:42:00.002-06:00

Tonight I went to Gunter to see my parent's, sister, nieces and both of my grandmothers. It was nice. I'm much more appreciative of living here in Texas, near my family, after being in Kansas. Granted I was only there for two months, but it's more than I can describe being back.

Today, while at my parent's, my niece Emma had me "chase" her while she was riding a tricycle (it's WAY too small for her by the way, so not much "chasing" going on). Nevertheless, I obliged and followed her to the front of the house, along the sidewalk. She noticed some, I guess, etching(?) in the sidewalk and proceeded to point it out while reciting her ABC's. After she finished, I told her that what she was pointing at was something her mommy and I did when our parent's built that house when the cement was still "wet". I guess that was something I forgot about until Emma pointed it out. You can clearly see..."Kevin '90" in the sidewalk. Emma wondered why her name wasn't there, which is when I came to the realization that that house was built almost 20 years ago, before she ever became the light in her mother's eye...and my family's for that matter. I'm not sure she understood what I was saying, but seeing that part of the sidewalk kinda made me emotional. Suddenly I noticed the age of the place, the bricks don't look the same, the yard doesn't look the same...it looked older. I remember when that house, my "always" home, was built. I remember coming back from vacation that year to see it had been framed, playing hide n seek in it before it was finished out, being outside the garage when I heard Garth Brooks "Friends in Low Places" for the first time (it had just been released shortly before construction...yeah I know). However, I never saw this house as old, until today. I'm just grateful that another generation has the opportunity to see it as...home. I miss Gunter...yeah, I said it.

TWOC: Christmas Shopping

2009-11-14T21:18:00.003-06:00

I must admit I'm not very good with the whole shopping thing. As a matter of fact, I'd rather have my fingers removed by a butter knife than go to the mall, but hey, when it comes to Christmas exceptions must be made. There's just something about buying for other people that makes it so much better, ESPECIALLY when I'm buying for those two beautiful girls. So tonight, while in Gunter at my parent's house, I was told that Emma was to go through the toy catalog (I believe it was Target) and tell me what she wants for Christmas. Well, I don't think I got a good grasp of what she really wants because she decided to point to, literally, every toy on every page and exclaim, "I want that...and that....and that....and that!" Needless to say, I would buy her everything in that catalog but, given I'm not some millionaire, it will be scaled down...just a bit.

Ok, getting back to Christmas shopping...only ONCE have I done my shopping last minute and the crowds were enough to ward me off from it for life. People are hysterical and ridiculous when it comes to shopping just before the holidays. However, those people also come across as sane individuals compared to those who do the whole "Black Friday" fiasco. Chaos reigns supreme on that particular date and I would rather be homeless than have to shop on that day. Having worked in retail, I've seen first hand how disgusting people can be. For me, I may have had a better grasp of the situation, I mean some of them were trying to get a good deal on the ONLY thing their child/niece/grandchild wanted that year. Who doesn't want to make a child's Christmas that much brighter? However, resorting to name calling, pushing/shoving, even fighting is uncalled for. To be honest, I'd rather buy everything online than have to deal with people in the stores. It's so much more cozy...imagine if you will, a nice hot cup of coffee (with holiday creamer), listening to Christmas music and buying gifts for the people you love online in the safe, comfortable location that is your home. It's nice. Trust me, do it...you'll thank me later lol.

I'm BAAAA-AAAACK!!!

2009-11-07T20:37:00.002-06:00

That's right, I'm finally able to sit down and write a blog post lol. So, let me just tell you all that has occurred in the last week. For starters, everyone knows I moved back to Texas! I'm so happy to be home, it just feels like "home" here. Even the stupid traffic put a small smile on my face this past Monday lol. Now, don't get me wrong, Kansas was ok but let's face it, I only went there for one reason and, well, it wasn't Kansas LOL. Fortunately, the opportunity came up for me to come back and we felt it was the best decision. So Saturday I drove back to Plano, with Hero and Lucy in tow. It was probably the ONE thing I dreaded most. I mean, Hero isn't exactly easy to take in a car, he loves to stand in my lap and look out the window. Although he did really well, I only let him in my lap once per hour lol...spoiled, I know. So anyway, 5 1/2 hour drive done, I boarded them at the hospital and checked into my hotel.

The Hotel
Let me start by saying it was cheap, like super cheap. However, I will NEVER again stay at Homestead Suites in Plano. I knew given the price it would be an experience but hell, it was only for one night. I killed 5 bugs, I suppose housekeeping left the window open and that's how they got in? I'm gonna go with that one. They weren't roaches though, but still. I should have complained or something, perhaps got the room for free but whatever. I just went with it. Got up the next morning (did not sleep under the covers by the way lol) and got things underway to get moved in.

Creekside Homes at Legacy
We lived here for a couple years, so I was not only familiar with the staff but the complex as well. It is very close to my job and they're nice apartments. So that was all a bonus. I fortunately got my lease signed prior to the movers calling, so I had enough time to check out the apartment. Nice, hardwood floors in the kitchen and bathroom. It's not too big but it's a mansion compared to that hotel room. Movers came and went, it was nice to have all the old furniture back even though we got rid of A LOT of stuff, which is nice...means LESS to unpack! It had to wait though, afterall I started work the very next morning.

Back at Work
It was such a relief to be back somewhere familiar, working with people I know, for people I know and with clients I know. It's like I never left, it's comfortable. So, without a hitch, I was back into my routine and it felt good. Hero, however, is not back into the routine. He's had to go to work with me EVERYDAY this week because he can't seem to get used to staying home alone. I can literally hear him SCREAMING from the parking lot! It's frustrating but not unexpected.

New Delivery
Seam decided it was time to buy a washer and dryer, which I agreed with. Afterall, we had been renting them for the last several years, needless to say, with what we'd been paying, we could've ALREADY owned them lol. By the way, I'm well aware of the stupidity in renting them...it's ok. So he scheduled them to be delivered on Tuesday. Let's just say this, I NEVER realized just how complicated a washer and dryer can be to operate. They are front loaders with NUMEROUS cycles, options, buttons, sounds, etc, etc. Nice but I would've been just fine with the plain janes, that's ok though. In addition to the washer & dryer, he also got us a 54" plasma TV and Blu Ray player. So, expensive delivery but very nice. Just wish I wasn't the only one enjoying them at the moment but that will change soon.

So now, I'm back to blogging. I've missed several TWOC posts but hope to get back into it this week. I'm so HAPPY to be back...in more ways than one!

Moving back to Texas....

2009-10-24T20:03:00.003-05:00

I realize some are wondering why I'm moving back, so I must say first and foremost, everything is okay in my relationship. I'm not moving back because something went awry. Honestly, I'm moving back because it makes sense, financially. After SIX years, there's more to this relationship than just being "together" and, yes, it is important but we both know that, succeeding as a couple is important as well. So this decision is what will make us work...together. Although, neither of us can wait until that time comes that we're TOGETHER again. Alright so, there is/was an opportunity for me to get my job back at the veterinary hospital in Plano. It was something that, when I left, I never even anticipated being able or wanting to get my job back there. However, given that the only job I can find here in Wichita is retail, meaning I couldn't even be able to pay my car payment with it, Seam and I decided it would be best to go back. Some ask..."why even leave in the first place?" Well, the answer is simply, we didn't know how long we'd be in Wichita and we didn't know WHERE in Texas we'd be relocated to. So, we now know that it will be January and we'll be living in the Plano area anyway, so why not go ahead, get my job back and get things under some sort of control. There was an opportunity to get my job back that didn't exist, originally, when I left. When I saw this opportunity, Seam and I discussed it and, a week later, the decision was made. I will be moving back to Texas, get my old job back and we are now established IN THE CITY WE'D END UP. Follow me? LOL! Sorry, I'm trying to make sense of all this to you but it's difficult because, again, everyone wonders why I left in the first place. However, I know you'd do the same given a similar situation, so if you have questions, please ask! That's, afterall, the only way to explain this whole ordeal!

My 30th Birthday...

2009-10-21T18:11:00.002-05:00

Before our move to Kansas, I had intended on taking a nice vacation somewhere (ok, Disney) for about a week to celebrate my 30th. However, after having moved to Kansas and only receiving 2 1/2 days to celebrate, we did what we could and within decent driving distance. So Seam decided that it would be a great idea to go to Kansas City (wait for it...)to a casino (ulterior motive). That's right, a casino. I have no issues against gambling when I'm winning BUT when I'm losing, which is often the case, it's a bummer. I really didn't want to go to a casino for my birthday but I reluctantly agreed to this excursion. I was given the choice between two hotels, the Argosy and Ameristar. I chose the Argosy, the reason for which I will get to in a minute. We boarded Hero at a veterinary hospital here and left Sunday afternoon. The drive was strange, at first all I saw was nothing, barren fields with an occasional windmill. Eventually it started to shift because I began to notice the beauty of the plains, seriously the land itself is so empty, meaning no developments, no homes, no cattle, no nothing...just land and rolling hills. This is how it must've looked when Americans began expanding westward...that alone is almost surreal. We entered into an area called The Flint Hills, not a lot to see but the hills and trees are very picturesque. Eventually we made the 200 mile journey to Kansas City and safely arrived at the hotel.

At first glance, the hotel didn't seem that nice; however, upon entering, things quickly changed. It's a very beautiful hotel, the amenities are lovely. Yes, I said lovely. So getting to my reason for THIS hotel...the BATHROOM! Yes, I know, strange but true. Plus, we had a 42" plasma HDTV on the wall, beautiful furnishings, etc. Ok...the bathroom, well actually, just the shower LOL...a huge walk in shower made of marble with a glass door. It also included a mosaic on the side wall, however the most wonderful part...a rain shower head on the ceiling AND a regular shower head...it was similar to being under a waterfall. Yes, I was excited about a shower...go ahead, laugh! LOL! Ok, so the rest of the hotel is just awesome as well. This place has 4 restaurants and one coffee shop, once we arrived we ate at the traditional casino buffet. It was actually a little different than any other buffet I've ever been to, I say that because they also had freshly made sushi AND Pho...pronounce Fa, although I say it like Fuh lol, it's a Vietnamese soup and if you've never had it TRY it, although I typically like Pho ga, which is chicken. Anyway, so the meal was good and no I didn't have Pho but it was a nice surprise. Then after a quick nap, we gambled and I lost $160 that night...I just kept telling myself, it's my birthday LOL!

The next day, my birthday, we set out to eat lunch at one of the restaurants featured on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives...it was something I've always wanted to do, I know high aspirations. Mama's 39th Street Diner was our destination, we got there..."closed for maintenance"! Seriously?!?! So as we're headed to another restaurant from that show, Seam saw something on the iPhone about Arthur Bryant's BBQ, we opted to go there. I mean, afterall, I was told, when in Kansas City, "YOU. MUST. EAT. BARBECUE." So we did and it was delicious. Per a suggestion from Facebook, I ate a burnt ends open faced sandwich...AWESOME! After that we headed back to the hotel/casino. There was no cake or real celebration, just a night of alcohol and gambling. Of course, Seam doesn't drink so I was the one who drank 2 bottles of wine...yes TWO...hey, you only turn 30 once. Actually, had I been in TX and unable to vacation anywhere, I'd have drank much more except I'd be surrounded by friends and family. Ok, nevermind, even without alcohol I'd rather have been surrounded by friends and family than be at this casino. Sorry Seam. However, it was a nice little trip and very much appreciated!

On Tuesday, we got up, checked out of the hotel and headed back to Wichita. Along the way, we stopped at Perkin's. It's similar to IHOP, except they are also known for their pies. It was a nice ending. I know, not many would think eating at a place like that should be deemed a "nice ending" to a short vacation. However, let me explain. During my internship at Disney, we would often go to a Perkin's there, after work, to unwind and eat. I haven't been to a Perkin's since my internship ended in 2003, it brought back a lot of memories and made me miss THOSE people and THAT place even more. So, yes, it was nice.

So, here I am 30 years old, stuck in Wichita, KS for another 4 months. LOL, although, I must say, slowly but surely, I'm gaining a greater appreciation for the state of Kansas. I know, it's true.

TWOC: Christmas Memories

2009-10-12T21:40:00.006-05:00

Christmas memories encompass many things. There are, literally, too many to choose from. However, I decided to share the ONE album that has been a part of EVERY Christmas since I can remember. Some of you may wonder, why this album? Well, let me just say it has touched and continues to touch so many emotions that it remains an integral part of mine and my family's holiday season.

The very first time I heard this album, I was very young. My parent's bought it (on cassette no less) because my Dad is a HUGE fan of Alabama. It was played. We got to the one song called, "Santa Claus (I Still Believe in You)." I remember my mom began bawling when it came to the one line..."Grandma and Grandpa, looking young and loving life cause they know their grandkids are gonna be alright." Mind you my mother had recently lost her grandfather....to be honest, I can't believe I remember that evening. However, that night resonates to this day. You ask any member of my immediate family about this album and they know, not only the words but the music as well. Seriously, ask my sister..."Who is Thistle Hair?" and she will promptly reply with, "The Christmas Bear"...almost without hesitation. This album seriously means a lot to me and my family. It's very true lol. It's a bit strange perhaps, but the same verse of the same song makes me just as teary-eyed as my mother after having also lost my grandfather, or more affectionately called Pappaw.

It's not just that one song though, it's all of them. I think I could, literally, sing ALL of them! You know they say certain sounds, smells, etc, can trigger a memory. It may be a little odd but this particular album is almost like looking through a scrapbook of memories when it's being played. It has definitely become a family tradition. I truly believe years from now, my family will continue to listen to this same Christmas album. I highly recommend it. Actually, I'm not even sure you can still buy it, I mean afterall it did come out in the late 80s...however, it's just not Christmas at our house without it!

For a little taste of it, listen to the following...TURN IT UP...it's a video from 1987, sorry I couldn't find any other way to post it. However, it's still great, just turn it up and listen closely lol!

The other album I listen to is Josh Groban's "Noel"....let me just say, "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" and "Little Drummer Boy" are my favorites, along with the usual "O Holy Night". I must recommend this album as well...it is so wonderful. Then again, it's one I sing to lol, so I hope it's as great to you as it is to me! Although living in a hotel this holiday season, I may just need to head out to my car to get the full effect LOL!

So I decided to post a little of "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" sung by Josh Groban, unfortunately all I could find is an old video from Regis & Kelly's show...sorry. So here it is...

Once again, confused? Look here!!!

Emma Lynn Brown...

2009-10-11T00:36:00.000-05:00

is 4 years old today! HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMMA! Four years ago today, she came into our lives and stole my heart. My niece is such a precocious, lovable, sweet, vivacious little girl. I miss her and I hope she has an amazing birthday!

The Weather

2009-10-10T18:13:00.003-05:00

...is lovely. Yes it's cold outside but I cannot help but love it. As we speak the temp is 37 degrees and the wind chill is 29. I'm currently sitting here listening to Christmas music, I know I'm crazy but, hey, this has truly been a great afternoon. I've begun some minor Christmas shopping via the internet while listening. Yes, I'm aware it's only October...who cares. Cup of cocoa in hand, Christmas shopping, cold weather, potato soup in the Crockpot and the music...nothin' says lovin' like Christmas. Ok, now back to reality, it's October and Halloween is coming up. I recently bought my nieces their costumes for trick or treating. Emma wanted to be Sleeping Beauty (I think I'm probably the proudest uncle on Earth...) and Brynlee will be a flower (she's so adorable!). I cannot wait to see them in their costumes...via pictures, afterall I am almost 400miles away. Can it get any better? Well I could have a job and that would make things a little better lol. Oh well, that's life.

A Hodgepodge of Posts

2009-10-09T20:16:00.006-05:00

I've done it before and I'm doing it again. A week's worth of thoughts, incidents and insights all in one post. It's actually more about having something I want to blog about but feel it doesn't "warrant" an entire blog LOL. So here we go....

1. It's cold here and I love it. I realize it's some rogue Canadian air mass moving through the area but I love it. There's a "Special Weather Advisory" just released here in Kansas basically saying...it's gonna be super cold and this is just a taste of what's to come...I cannot wait! They even say there's a chance of freezing drizzle...what, in OCTOBER?!?! WOOHOO! I even had to go buy a coat specifically for this upcoming weather. Oh and we're having homemade potato soup tomorrow, complete with cornbread and a salad (possibly a sandwich per Seam). I can't wait to open my Peppermint Cocoa, I need a reason and this might be it.

2. I went to Walmart last night in preparation for #3 below. I went to checkout at the "self checkout". This woman and her young daughter come up to my little checkout area, so close we were basically sharing the same oxygen, it was uncomfortable and I let her know that via my side-eye glance. When I completed my transaction, I left my hand-held basket, why you ask? Because this woman was so close I'd have to invade HER personal space just to get it, let's face it, this is Kansas (no offense), she should have been on that website, you know the one to which I'm referring. Anyway, as I left she says, "Wow, you left your basket, how nice"...to which I reply, "Yes, I sure did." What I REALLY wanted to say was, "You were obviously so anxious to check out that I felt the LEAST you could do was put it away yourself." However, this is a Kansas woman at Walmart, I'm not sure what she's capable of...again, no offense. Damn, a picture needed to be taken for, well, that website.

3. Seam bought some "Halloween" box 'o cake for yours truly to bake. It took place today and was interesting. My first thought when he brought it home was..."What the heck?!?! I have a toaster oven!" Still, I attempted it. I purchased 2 square 8X8 disposable cake pans (of all things, Christmas themed)...mixed it up, baked it. Now I know...to live is to learn and to "try" is to fail ONCE. Well...I tried. I must have overfilled one of the cake pans because it didn't turn out as planned (it was only filled HALFWAY, ugh). However, might I add, icing is the BEST cover up! So now I have two small cakes, one good, the other decent. We won't even eat it all. Again, I ask..."Why buy this?" Oh and incidentally he bought two tubes of "Halloween" cinnamon rolls as well. Also a container full of Halloween candy sprinkles...it will NEVER get used. All this from a person who "doesn't eat sweets." Go figure.

4. I'm becoming increasingly fed up with the gentleman (term used loosely) staying across from us. He continuously let's his dog out the exit door...WITHOUT a leash, running freely. The dog's name is Rusty, he's an older lab. Ok, so the dog is behaved and does not run off. HOWEVER, I too have a dog and, while he's "behaved", he doesn't take kindly to this other dog running up to him and sniffing his no-no place...if you know what I'm sayin'. So, yeah, it's annoying.

5. My 30th birthday is a week from Monday. I'm okay with turning 30, I'm looking at it as a turning point, of sorts, in my life. By that, I mean, I need to get my "stuff" together, to put it lightly. I feel like I've spent my 20s doing a whole lot of not much, I mean especially since I have nothing really to show for it. I want to not only take better care of myself but live for a better life. All this being said, how do I celebrate? We're stuck in Kansas, there's nothing to see or do here. We currently live in a hotel and the last thing I want to do is go stay in another one lol...unless it's in Orlando, let me make myself clear lol. What to do? What to do? I might actually just ask for new tires...I know, exciting.

6. For those who may be beer drinkers, I became a "fan" of Shiner Bock beer on Facebook (I know, judging from my previous post regarding this, it's unbelievable lol). They recently released their "Holiday Cheer" version, I hope I can find it here in Wichita. While I don't drink beer THAT much, this one is a good one. It's made with peaches and pecans....soooo good. Anyway, just a thought LOL.

7. Speaking of Holiday Cheer, you may have seen my previous post regarding my special list for visiting Disney during the holidays. Well, they just released a new deal...buy 4 nights/tickets at a Moderate/Deluxe resort, get 3 nights/tickets FREE or buy 5 nights/tickets at a Value resort, get 2 nights/tickets FREE. It cannot be beat and the best news...it's AVAILABLE during those first two weeks of December I mentioned earlier! Alright, maybe I'm the only one excited about it and, the sad thing is, I'm still excited about it and won't be able to take advantage of it LOL! So anyway, if you can dream it, do it...that's what Disney's all about.

My "Grown Up" DISNEY Christmas List

2009-10-04T01:07:00.005-05:00

That's right, and I'm sure you guessed, as a matter of fact some of you may have even rolled your eyes just now...jealousy is unbecoming...however this is my special list. Every year when I'm asked what I want for Christmas, I never have, what most consider, a "real" answer...my go to answer is, "A trip to Disney." Santa hasn't come up with it yet, guess he's a real penny pincher. So in honor of my annual request, here is a list of things I'd like to do/see while visiting Disney during the holidays. By the way, this list is not exhaustive, there is so much to see and do. Every corner you turn, it just keeps getting better. The decorations alone are a sight to see. No detail is missed, it's unbelievable.

My Disney Christmas

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Experience "Holidays Around the World" at EPCOT
See the Lights of Winter
Tree Lighting at EPCOT--AWESOME!
Candlelight Processional
Get hot chocolate and gingerbread at the Liberty Inn's life-sized (sorta) gingerbread house
Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights
Hear Mickey read Twas The Night Before Christmas
Listen to carolers throughout the parks
Marvel at the extensive holiday decor, you just cannot imagine...amazing
Of course, EVERYTHING else you always do at WDW

Oh, I should also say, I'd never literally go over the actual Christmas holiday...the first two weeks of December are ideal. Just so you can visualize what it's like, here are a few pictures...beautiful right? I highly recommend it!

So in case you're wondering why the heck I'm making a Christmas list here in the beginning of October, then check out the 12 Weeks of Christmas over at Red Writing! Just click below....

Visual Art

2009-10-01T16:28:00.005-05:00

I know a person I could get advice from about this course, however since the semester just began, I'll use her expertise at a later date lol. That being said, this is such a HARD class for me! Coming from an education in science, I realize this course is forcing me to use a different part of my brain and, ultimately, I feel I will benefit from that. However, right now...I've never felt more stupid. Actually, I've never thought a professor was such an idiot as I do right now, I know I'm just being defensive of my ignorance in the subject but still. Today, I had to submit a sketch of a "palace" that I live in somewhere. I had to include all these different types of architecture and visual art. It was interesting (idiotic) to say the least. I mean, I get it, I do. I need to open my head a little more, so to speak. I get it...really. So along with this sketch, I had to submit a 600 word essay explaining where it was, what it's made of, compare and contrast it to various other types of art/architecture in the specific chapter. So, I got my creative juices going...it never said I had to be a "king" (or whatever) in a REAL place. So yeah, I became the king of Gravlia, a small island between Italy and Greece in the Mediterranean Sea, nice huh? My palace included a rotunda, Hall of Greatness, a library, funerary (?), courtyards and 3 obelisks. Of course there were also living quarters for the family. Hey, it kinda sounds like I might have learned something right? Ehh, you should see the sketch LMAO!!!!!!! Ok, so it's down below. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND...I only have white paper and ONE pen to work with, yeah no pencil. Again, this is all my fault, I mean c'mon, I knew what was coming but it never crossed my mind that when taking an ART class that I would need ART SUPPLIES! It's been a real "duh" moment. Hey, some would say it's a blonde moment...{TANGENT}well guess what, when I first moved here, I shaved my head, yup straight up buzz cut down with a 1 (if you know what that means)...OK, so the point is...my hair is growing out dark brown LOL. Oh well.{END TANGENT} Moving on...here is my lovely "palace" on the island of Gravlia....wouldn't you want to live there? Yeah me neither lol....

That's right folks, I had to scan my sketch and email it. I mean, how else would I get it to UNT when I'm here in Kansas? Fortunately, I have a scanner.

Four Paws From Heaven

2009-09-29T21:16:00.005-05:00

Today we got a call from the front desk letting us know that I had received a package. To be honest, I thought it was a book I had previously tried to purchase for a class I was supposed to take through the UNT Bookstore (at the time, it was "back ordered"). Needless to say, after dropping said class, the book was sent to my previous place of employment, Windhaven Veterinary. "Dang!" I thought, so I emailed the bookstore and cancelled the order, which, unbeknownst to me, was still "active". I had already told the people at Windhaven to do whatever with it, I didn't need it afterall (besides it was cheap lol). So anyway, this evening I go to the front desk and retrieve this package. It's from one of Windhaven's clients, a client I knew would *probably* send me something, well I mean given she said she would. However, this was something unexpected. She sent me a book called Four Paws From Heaven: Devotions For Dog Lovers. She/They also sent a card. This is what got to me. Do not get me wrong, I've always showed the clients at Windhaven the respect and emotion I felt I would want to receive...in EVERY situation. So, I never once felt I was doing anything out of the ordinary, I never once felt I went "above and beyond" anything any one of our clients expected. I just did my job...showing compassion, customer service and, ultimately, affection for those clients' pets. It was never considered a "part of the job", it was absolutely genuine. However, the card, it got me. It made me miss my job. The owner included a picture of her pet, damn...just typing that made me miss my job even more lol. She included in the card that she wanted me to pet Hero for them and that they prayed everything went well with the move. It's actually more than I can handle at this point. Sometimes I wish I had never left, yet I'm happy where I'm at. It's a Catch 22. Needless to say, I'm touched. I've never reaped the "reward" of previous jobs and yet, at Windhaven, somehow, I feel lucky to have worked there. So, that's all I can say right now. It meant a lot and at the same time, it reminded me of everything I've had, experienced and gained while working there. A nice reminder.

The Cave

2009-09-29T18:16:00.005-05:00

I've begun affectionately referring to our "home" as the cave. Everyone knows that hotel rooms have those "blackout" curtains, well we've begun actually keeping them closed. It feels like a cave, literally. Well, ok, even more so since I insist on keeping the AC on 70 degrees, hey we're not paying for electricity, why not? I know I'm not alone on that since my sister even said she'd walk around with ear muffs...well, just because lol. So, the REASON we're keeping those curtains closed is twofold. First, they are doing some "remodeling" at the hotel and the storage unit that contains all the "supplies" (I guess) is parked...you guessed it, near our window. It's actually blocking our beautiful view of the adjacent car dealership's service lot...oh yeah. Anyway, people come and go and Hero loves to bark, so it's easier. Second....as they do remodels of the rooms above ours...yeah, they THROW things from the above windows, i.e. rolled up old carpet. At one point, I thought someone had committed suicide jumping from, ok, only the 3rd floor but still. So they're closed for Hero and myself. Without further ado, I've decided to show off (?) our home away from home for the next five months.

Please ignore the laundry baskets in the background and the organized chaos. As I've said before, storage is an issue. Oh and the leather recliner...it's always directly next to the bed. The reason: Hero. He wants up on the bed, so we had to come up with something since his front right elbow...well...it's made of pure gold, about $4k worth (Ok not really, it's fitted with titanium screws and plates...same diff). Besides it's cheaper than buying freakin' stairs for pets...those things cost around $70!! I can deal with the chair next to the bed, it will do. Tangent, I know, I apologize.

So this is my home for the next 5 months. I miss apartment living, in previous posts, I berated it...now I miss it. Funny how things work.

Fall is here....

2009-09-23T19:40:00.002-05:00

I'm grateful to be in a place that experiences real seasons. I know Texas is experiencing Fall weather as well this week and I'm grateful for that; however, I took it upon myself to check out the weekly forecast for Wichita and, my real home, North Texas. It turns out we're remaining a good 10+ degrees cooler here in KS. For that, I am happy. Moving on...

So this evening, I had to take a quick trip to Dillon's (aka Kroger) to pick up a few things. When I stepped out of the car, my first thought was...crap, I need to buy some jeans. My second thought, as I walked into the store, was THANK YOU FALL! The smell was almost overwhelming. I could smell apple cider and something cinnamon-y baking in the bakery. It was nice. I LOVE FALL!!!

Who can't say they love it? Oh wait, I know one person I used to work with who probably wishes it was still 102 degrees outside. Haha. You can't win 'em all.

Aside from Fall itself, I must admit I was a failure at something this week. I had fully intended on participating in a Fall Wreath Party contest on a friend's blog. I did not follow through, I came close but only ended up buying 1 thing (incidentally a really nice fall decoration already, which was to be deconstructed and reconstructed onto a wreath). So, I admit it, I failed. HOWEVER, the holiday season is coming upon us soon and I hope to redeem myself...*wink* *wink*....*nudge* *nudge*. Haha.

Wichita Winter

2009-09-21T18:25:00.003-05:00

This is something I've been thinking about a lot. Actually it's something I've been thinking about since we knew we were having to move here! Previously in North Texas' winters, I've never really needed a coat, and by coat, I mean a freakin' COAT. I've always used something like a windbreaker or a jacket, but never a coat. I'm bringing this up because we're expected to have the low temps over the next few days in the LOW 50s/UPPER 40s! No, it's not cold "cold" but it's only late September. It's not something I've ever experienced, although, I must say, I'm looking forward to real seasons here(...and that's about it).

Ok so, Wichita generally sees a high in December of 43 on average and a low of 24, and in January...it's even colder. Alright so, generally speaking, it's around 10-15 degrees cooler than what I'm used to. Can I just say...FINALLY!!! I know it's only Kansas but I am SO hoping for a blizzard warning or something of the like...I LOVE COLD WEATHER AND THE PRECIP!! I just don't want to drive in it LOL. We'll see how that goes. As for now, we will be going to Burlington Coat Factory for our coats, I know prestigious but what else is there here? I just keep thinking, dang I need more winter clothing, which means a shopping extravaganza is on it's way. Oh, did I mention how much I hate shopping? Oh well, I think I have one pair of jeans that made it here. I know, awesome planning.

I'm just looking forward to colder weather. I mean what can I say, I'm hot by nature. ;0)

Hotel Housekeeping

2009-09-21T17:32:00.004-05:00

Ok, don't get me wrong, it's very nice to have. However, after the time I spend cleaning up just so housekeeping doesn't think we're "dirty", plus the amount of time it's been taking to get Lucy (our cat) out from under the bed AND the inconvenience of taking Hero...somewhere, it's a become a bit of a nuisance. Again, I would totally put up the sign "No Housekeeping Needed" BUT, I think, since we're here "long term" (i.e. 5 more months) they must come in once per week. Alright so it's a one day per week nuisance, I'm learning to deal with it.

Take today...I could NOT for the life of me get Lucy out from under the bed. I only spent 30 mins and decided I'd leave a note for housekeeping. You know, just letting them know she's under there. I wouldn't want them to freak out because some "giant rat" came running out from under the bed. Lucy is very petite. So, Hero and I leave. Generally, I would take him to a park, we'd get me some lunch. He'd beg, only getting his cup o' water. Spend a couple hours, doing not too much and come back to a freshly cleaned room. Today was different. It's raining, so we spent TWO HOURS sitting in my car!!! Granted there was some driving around, but damn, it was extremely boring. We came back, housekeeping had yet to enter...UGHHHHHHHHHHH! I think at that point, I might've cursed them to a life of scrubbing toilets, but I can't be sure. Of course, I can't fault them for it, they're just doing their job and I'm the one impeding it...whatever. So we left again and came back in an hour. It had been cleaned...THANK GOODNESS. They replenished the towels, toilet paper (who cares, I buy my own), Kleenex, trash bags and, oh, wait....paper towels? That's right, they did not replenish the PAPER TOWELS! Alright, so I'm being a spoiled brat, who cares. WHO THE EFF, pardon my language, LEAVES THREE PAPER TOWELS ON A ROLL?!?!?!?! Again, I know I'm being ridiculous, but what did they think..."Oh 3 paper towels, they're good for a week"...huh? Don't get me wrong, I don't mind buying some, it's not the biggest issue in the world, obviously, but c'mon...seriously?

Like I said before, I know it sounds silly, it's just irritating. It's a fiasco just so they can come clean the room...I swear, I don't know what's worse, being a housekeeper at a hotel or me, getting it "ready" for housekeeping....ok, don't answer that, I know the answer lol. I suppose I should be grateful...well, I would be if I had a full roll of paper towels! They even threw away the half roll of toilet paper...ugh, wasteful much? Ok, rant is done.

Kansas State Fair

2009-09-17T23:29:00.004-05:00

We decided to attend the Kansas State Fair today. I mean, I'm a sucker for the Texas Fair...or should I say the fair food at the Texas State Fair lol. Anyway, we decided to go today. Hero was taken to a veterinary hospital for boarding and we made our trek. It was a 50 mile drive to Hutchinson, KS. I should admit that, when living in Gunter, the drive to the fair never seemed long; however, I was dreading this drive, probably because I knew it would be filled with nothing but open pasture (see end of post**). Well it was, we got a bit lost once we made it to Hutchinson, but with the help of the iPhone, we made it to the fair. I kept looking for the big things (ie The Texas Star or Big Tex-type things) but I never saw them. We parked, paid and walked in. There were a few things that reminded me of the Texas Fair, the numerous food booths, the smell of cow/pig/goat/etc crap, the ever-present "Carni" requesting you play "their" game ("First one is FREE!") and, well, the exhibitions. However, it was much smaller. I felt like I was at a "shopping mall" carnival on steroids, add-in livestock, beer and a few "retailers"...Hello Sham-Wow! Ok, it sorta fulfilled my addiction to the Texas State Fair. Yes, I admit it, I love the fair...primarily for the food and weather that comes just after the fair, haha. To me, it's like the gateway to a very short fall (in TX), so I always look forward to it. The Kansas State Fair, however, proved to be just a *bit* different. First of all, I didn't know I would find that many toothless people in one place...no disrespect, but I know if I had a tooth (let alone TEETH) missing, I wouldn't be smiling SO big (good for them!). Also, I've never seen a booth at the TX State Fair selling cigarettes...well we saw some today, it was weird. Oh and only one place served sausage on a stick and TWO places served roasted corn-on-the-cob...HELLO? (Ok our annoyance) The only other issue I took with this fair was...in the "PRAIRIE PAVILION" that housed cattle and milking cows...there was a concession stand that sold.........HAMBURGERS!!!!!!!!!!! WHAT THE HECK! It's like a slap in the face for those cattle...some of which were delivering calves! Sorry, but I took issue with that, granted not a major one but I felt it was a bit, too much...sadistic?

Ok, ok...so this fair gratified a bit of my mild infatuation with the Texas State Fair. I only wish we had pictures. However, Seam left our camera on some weird setting that made ALL of our pictures OVEREXPOSED! Ok, well, some weren't but who needs to see goats and pigs in the petting zoo, geez. By the way, should you be planning to attend the Texas State Fair this year...PLEASE, have a corn dog for me. Do not let me know you had it or describe it to me, just eat one for me! They're just not the same here, then again...nothing is.

**AMISH PEOPLE LIVE HERE! Again, no disrespect BUT I've never actually seen an Amish community. So, on our way home, we continuously saw these warning signs...

...I kept thinking, would it be super disrespectful to drive down those roads AND take pictures? Yeah, probably so, which I understand. However, I'm fascinated and, a bit, jealous. I'm not familiar with the lifestyle, at all, but it would be interesting to experience/see it. Hmmm, maybe I'm alone in that lol.

Recipes...

2009-09-17T17:37:00.007-05:00

They're everywhere online these days. I have a few friends that are posting their recipes on their blogs recently. After seeing Keelie's recent post, on her Pass Your Plate blog, regarding enchiladas, I thought, man I wish I had some of my mom's (aka Aunt Mary's) enchiladas. So I decided to join the club (one time only lol) and post this recipe. It was my Aunt Mary's, whom passed it on to my mom, which is how I got it. Take a look, they're easy to make, very rich but delicious...

Sour Cream Beef Enchiladas
aka Mary's Enchilada's

1lb ground round
1tbsp minced onion
1/2 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp black pepper

1/2c Cheddar Cheese
1/2c Jack Cheese
1/2can Cheddar Cheese Soup
8oz Sour Cream
8oz Rotel tomatoes (drain but reserve some juice)

Of course...Flour tortillas & Sauce (see below)

Preheat oven to 375. Spray a casserole dish with Pam or butter it or go willy nilly and use Dawn later. Place first four ingredients into a pan, brown & drain. Add the next five ingredients and combine. Place as much as you want into a flour tortilla and roll, place in casserole dish. BEFORE you put this in the oven, let's make the good stuff, the sauce that is....

Sauce
1can Cheddar Cheese soup
1 small can Evaporated milk
8oz Sour Cream
SOME Rotel juice
Shredded Cheddar/Jack cheese (Quantity? your decision...see, it is good)

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and pour over the top of the enchiladas. NOW, place them in your preheated oven and bake until bubbly.

Last time I personally made these, I used shredded chicken instead of beef...awesome, maybe even better. Oh and incidentally, it's difficult for me to describe a recipe to people because, well, simply put, I rarely follow them lol. So should you opt to try this recipe, I hope you will not blame me if they don't turn out delicious...just means I'm a better cook! JUST KIDDING! =)

Glee

2009-09-16T21:35:00.005-05:00

Anyone else watch this show? I love it! I'm not sure why, I can't quite explain it but I love it lol. After seeing them cover "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey in the pilot episode, I was hooked. It's funny, tongue-in-cheek, bright and it includes musical numbers from pop music...who wouldn't like it? Well I ran across this message board where some mother's were saying how they thought it was a family show but after the sexual references in the first episode of the season, they've decided it's no longer to be watched in their homes. Mind you, some of these parent's referred to their children as "tweens"....yes I had to look it up, "WTH is a tween anyway," I thought. Ok so basically these are NOT 4yo kids watching this show, got it. The strange thing is, I don't recall any sexual references in that episode, none. Then again, I'm almost 30 and never had a sheltered life so maybe I didn't think anything of it. That being said, tonight's episode included a cover of Color Me Badd's "I Wanna Sex You Up"...I shudder to think what these parent's think of this show now. What's even funnier, that song was popular when I was a "tween". I guess somehow things are different nowadays...whatever.

Anyway, if you've never seen the show, I think you should give it a shot. It's a nice change of pace and, yes, it's a bit musical.

Riverside Park

2009-09-14T17:21:00.007-05:00

Today, while housekeeping was cleaning the room, I took Hero to Riverside Park. It's a very nice city park here in Wichita. We recently found it on Labor Day, the park was littered with people at the time. Some had brought their grills and had a family picnic, others were fishing along the Arkansas River and still others were visiting the very small "zoo" housing wildlife of Kansas. I suppose Kansas doesn't have much wildlife, I mean judging from the size of the "zoo" that is. So, from that day, I knew I wanted to go back, take some pictures and pass some time. It's really nice. The park is covered with Oak and Cedar trees, geese, ducks and children lol. Surrounding the park are old homes, homes that were built in probably the 30s/40s (I think)...you know the kind that are built to last. It's true what they say, "they just don't make 'em like this anymore." I have a fondness for older homes, I would love to own one some day. So I decided to take some pictures as proof that there are nice places in Wichita...this was more about proving it to myself than anyone else lol. So, take a look....

My Dream Kitchen

2009-09-11T16:43:00.004-05:00

Ok, so it's close to my dream kitchen, of course this picture represents someone elses "dream", so, needless to say, I would make my own tweaks. However, this is the image I was thinking of as I got everything ready for dinner tonight. The Crock Pot is going to soon become my friend. I took some advice from Keelie and checked out a blog that Lindee follows, A Year of Slow Cooking. There was an interesting recipe for Orange Chicken. I took the bait and decided to make it. Of course, I needed to buy a Crock Pot first, since the lid of the one I had shattered (long story). I had originally tried to get a replacement lid but it was going to cost $20...let me just say, these slow cooker's are not that expensive, so it made more sense to buy a new one. Also, the one I had was a 5 quart...I NEVER cook for that many people. So, I went out and bought one along with all the ingredients necessary for this dish. I prepped, sliced, seared, mixed, tasted and Crock Pot(ted). As we speak it is cooking. However, I decided to add ingredients, I mean what is orange chicken without red pepper and garlic? Seriously. Oh and I opted to add a little onion, I mean c'mon, right? So, now, I'm sitting here, typing...waiting...wondering. Have you ever come to a point when you're making something new and you just have to consider alternatives. I mean, if it turns out not like you planned, you have Papa Johns # on hand...that's the situation I'm in at this point. Oh and speaking of kitchens....without further ado, yeah, this is what I'm dealing with...

Yep, that's our kitchen...awesome right? Literally, there's nothing else...that's it. I've actually thought about creating a blog called...The Culinary Kitchenette. Ehh, it would take more time and effort than I'm willing to give at this point LOL. So for now, just imagine me cooking in this thing. Although I have made....burritos, quesadillas, Chicken Tetrazinni and, now, orange chicken. Finger's crossed it's edible.

FYI: I must add that should the orange chicken NOT be edible, please do not let that deter yourself from checking out the blog A Year of Slow Cooking. See I added my own "flair" so to speak, so if it's bad, it's my fault not hers. Check it out!

Tomorrow...

2009-09-10T21:56:00.003-05:00

According to a few I follow in "Blogland"...tomorrow is photo day and, by pure coincidence, I am planning to go to Riverside Park, as well as Oak Park, here in Wichita to take some pics. I just feel some of the houses along the river, the parks themselves and, my beautiful dog Hero, deserve some (more) recognition. So, expect them. If they don't appear, it's because I was being lazy or just didn't have time...I know, "what else do you have to do there Kevin?"...I ask myself the same thing everyday LOL.

So what if I am...

2009-09-06T19:02:00.004-05:00

...a snob that is. No one has called me one but I feel like I'm being one when it comes to this city. I'm not sure why though. Well, I'll be honest, there is something to be said for a city where on every street corner, there is a liquor store AND a chiropractor, weird right? Ok and another thing, I wanted some wine the other night, well of course you cannot buy it at a grocery store, instead you have to go to a liquor store. So, I asked why and the answer I got was more info than I needed. The girl replies with, "Politics..." ok, I can deal with that although it doesn't make sense lol. Yet she continues, "...are you from the South?" "Yes, Texas," I reply. The short version of what followed is this...apparently because of the alcohol content of wine, it must be sold in liquor stores. The beer you buy in the grocery store is watered down, HOWEVER should you buy beer in a liquor store, it has the same amount of alcohol as, "[we] do in the South." Let me just say, I don't drink THAT often, but I found this interesting. It made me wonder though, is the coffee or soda I buy in a grocery store going to have the same amount of caffeine? If not, then, in my opinion, this state is pitiful...NO ONE needs to mess with my caffeine, it's uncalled for to say the least.

So far, I know where the Target, Walmart, Dillon's (aka Kroger), McAlister's Deli, um and McDonalds are. Yeah, no sign of Starbucks YET. However, let me explain, since being here, I haven't really been able to leave this damn hotel. Hero is making that difficult. Sure I could just leave BUT I'm not convinced he will be ok alone, he growls and does this whole "muffled bark" thing when I am here. If I'm gone and unable to control that issue, he would go full out screechy/barky/ANNOYING! (2 complaints against him and we're out) So, I'm stuck until Seam gets home and then it's the end of the day and I'm so spent on being BORED all day that I can't make a decision on where to go LOL. Take this afternoon for example, I drove around, literally JUST DROVE AROUND and ended up at the damn grocery store AGAIN. I bought a few things and came home. There is a Michael's just down the street, I said I'd be making crafts (yes I still plan to, hello Sept 22nd comes soon!) and I've yet to even get there LOL. I'm feeling a little lost here to say the least. Tomorrow we're planning to take Hero out with us somewhere, not sure where yet but SOMEWHERE.

Good things to come though, I can feel it...

Wichita, KS

2009-09-03T17:09:00.003-05:00

Well we finally made it, albeit on Tuesday...sorry I'm just now getting around to blogging about it lol. So after a few mishaps along the way, well one major mishap, we got here safe and sound. Hero is adjusting, I think, and Lucy, well she's still in hiding. Although she does come out at night, only to wake me up for, what I assume she thinks of as..."Me(ow) time".

Just about everything is unpacked, the things that are left are things we need more space for, I just didn't feel like dealing with it today. My computer is up and running, the wi-fi is connected for Seam's laptop AND Tivo, as we speak, is downloading the channel information (finger's crossed). Some normalcy seems to be seeping into life in Wichita and it's only Day 3, it's a little encouraging. Now I just need to adjust to cooking in a "kitchenette" with no real oven. Hello crockpot and toaster oven, you will be my friends for the next several months. (I even saved a website for a Thanksgiving dinner via toaster over...yeah, can you imagine? lol)

Oh did I mention that this hotel is within a mile of the airport? Yeah, it's not so bad inside, I mean you can hear the planes but it's nothing terribly bad. However, if you are outside and you see a plane coming in for a landing, you literally feel the need to duck and cry. It's serious when you can actually see the plane's windows....pics to come. The company has offered to move us to a different place due to the area (which isn't really bad, just old) and the airport; however, given that the new location would cause us to do more highway driving, we opted to stay in this location. The reason: Winter....I know I can't drive if it's icy and even LESS so if it's on a highway.

More to come...

From Public Storage to Dyson

2009-08-31T21:59:00.007-05:00

So when you're online and you decide to reserve a space, they provide graphics to represent that particular space. At first, we felt that a 5'X15' storage unit would suffice given that some of our "big" stuff would be taken by friends, well I reserved it. So last night we find out that, hey not only is no one going to take our coffee table or TV center thing BUT NO ONE WILL BE TAKING OUR DINING TABLE AND CHAIRS!!!!!!!!!!! Needless to say, things changed, so after we discussed it last night, we opted to go for the next size up...you know the one that says, "For a large 1 bedroom apartment". So, today, I go to sign everything, look at the larger one and, can I just say (pardon my French)...HOLY SHIT...it's like a freakin' closet!!!! I called Seam and he said just take it (he was half asleep, I guess), so I did. I realize that it's 8-9ft high and things can stack upon each other BUT my stressed out brain cannot fathom how a king sized sleigh bed, CURVED full sofa, dining table & chairs, coffee table, computer desk, TV stand, one TV (thankfully someone took our plasma...of course boo) and ALL THE BOXES can possibly fit! So Seam has that task (with the movers), for which I am grateful. I will gladly clean this apartment to avoid the complicated puzzle that will be our storage unit. Hmm...speaking of cleaning....without further ado....I would like to re-create an introduction I made a few hours ago, it went something like this, "Hello Dyson, meet carpet"...it has been a match made in Heaven all evening. I never knew vacuuming could be so fun!

A chapter closed...

2009-08-29T20:22:00.002-05:00

Today was my last day at Windhaven Veterinary Hospital. I've enjoyed working there, for the most part, I mean despite petty office politics. I actually like most of our clients and I've gained some knowledge in the profession. I undoubtedly feel confident in helping my pet's live a longer, healthier life. That alone, to me, is priceless. However, something else happened at Windhaven. After the first couple of years there working diligently, always leaving everything behind at the end of the day and never really considering the people I work with as anything other than "work friends"...I feel I've made lasting friendships in the last couple of years. I'm not sure what took me so long and, while I regret not letting these people into my life earlier, I'm happy with what I've gained. In other words, people that love me for who I am and not what I pretend to be, that too, is priceless.

It's strange, I'm not quite convinced that I no longer work there, I suppose it will hit me in a couple of days. It's been difficult to say the least. I'm not just leaving a job behind, I'm leaving really, really great people and, most importanly, great friends. I realize we'll always be friends and I'm happy for that BUT I will no longer see these people everyday. We won't talk everyday. Maybe I'm being silly, just a little emotional I suppose. It's not as though I'm leaving one job for another, it's more than that...I'm moving far away from everything that is familiar. Hence, this chapter of my life being closed. Wichita, KS will never really be home, I'm sure I'll go through withdrawals lol, but home is where the heart is and I cannot stress it enough, my heart has been there since July 13th.

All this being said...more packing to do, more cleaning to do and NEVER enough time!

The dumpster is my friend...

2009-08-25T20:22:00.003-05:00

Well, ok, it just feels that way today. I think I made 6 or 7 trips to the dumpster! I got rid of a lot of crapola BUT I'm only one person and I don't care how much I can carry at one time...it takes it's toll. I'm exhausted and I'm certain I will be sore tomorrow, which is ok, it means I did something...right? However, I feel like a dent has barely been made in what all I planned to do prior to this weekend. It's ok, I have a few days...at least that's what I keep telling myself. Damn you procrastination....

Craftiness...

2009-08-25T00:15:00.004-05:00

...is that a word?!?! Ok, who cares. I have to say that my friend Keelie is probably one of the craftiest (is that a word...again?) people I know. She's currently holding a fall wreath party on her blog and I invite everyone who is interested to join! There are door prizes and such but I'm also interested in what you have to offer. You see, I cannot participate given my upcoming move to the "Heartland"; however, I hope to make some stuff of my own once I get there. Yes, I admit it, I hope to be crafting some stuff in Kansas. What else is there to do there anyway? So, check it out!

Trash

2009-08-23T17:33:00.002-05:00

I'm not referring to food packaging, uneaten food, empty soda cans or the like. Instead I'm referring to things that we've accumulated over the last few years that have literally become unnecessary in our life. This includes decorations, clothes, kitchen utensils and appliances....even furniture. I guess this move has become necessary in my life. I'm finally able to rid myself of so much "baggage". It's true what they say, getting rid of the "clutter" really is cathartic. However, as I sit here typing, I can also see what seems to be an endless mound of "trash" waiting to be tossed. It would be nice if the dumpster was right outside my door...ugh I hate apartments. Tuesday is the day. Hero will be taken to the hospital for a groom, while I labor away at getting everything OUT. Hopefully it will not be as overwhelming once I begin, we'll see.

Speaking of being overwhelmed, I never knew just how many sets of scrubs I had until today. It's seriously unbelieveable. What's truly amazing is that I've already turned in some scrubs, where did they all come from? I'm just stressed with everything right now.

Sad....

2009-08-06T21:35:00.002-05:00

I know I will only be in Kansas until March...but it's freakin' March and since it's come down to being only 3 weeks before I leave, things have been weighing heavily on my mind. I will, most certainly, miss my family. I believe the longest I've gone without seeing my niece, Emma, is a month and even then, she was SOOOOO different than the last time I saw her. Brynlee was born in June, and while she will not remember my absence, it still stings. It stings because I cannot only see her and Emma when I want/can but instead it's when I can make the trek back to TX. I'm sad because I'm so afraid things with those beautiful girls will change so much that it won't "matter" that I'm in their lives. I know it's silly, I've just been thinking about them a lot lately...

The Almighty Cell Phone...

2009-07-28T17:33:00.002-05:00

So I've now gone 24 hours without a cell phone. I know some people have gone much longer but it's so strange for me. What did we do BEFORE cell phones? Oh yeah, I was a kid and didn't need one, that's right. So now that I've been without one, I realize I never hope to be without it again. As a matter of fact, I've CONTINUED to carry around my old cell phone even though it doesn't work...it's a habit, so sue me. We changed our service provider and ported (?) our old numbers to the new cell phones. The problem is, these new cell phones were purchased in Wichita, KS. So I'm currently waiting on FedEx to deliver mine, which will not be received until sometime tomorrow! I've never been one to care what features my cell phone has, all I really care about is: #1) It works #2) I can send/receive texts and #3) well it works! So now we've made the change to a smart phone, my iPhone will be arriving tomorrow and it will take me WEEKS to get used to it. Everyone tells me that once you switch over, you won't go back...we'll see. How did cell phones become such an integral part of our lives?!?!?!

The night of July 25th

2009-07-26T16:52:00.003-05:00

So last night we had yet another Wine & Spirits gathering. I have to say, it was a nice time. It's also my last for a while given my move. For those that don't know what I'm talking about, we are basically a group of people with a similar interest that, well, have a get-together every so often just to have a good time. It's probably just an excuse to have a party, but that's ok. So last night, I had the opportunity to hang out with friends....real friends. See, since Seam is gone, things have been hard for me, I just sorta feel alone for the time being. So hanging out with some friends was nice.

As far as the party goes, we had a nice turn out. A lot of new people from work stopped by, which was a nice change of pace; however, were they not to come, it still would have been awesome. I think the point I'm trying to get at, but clumsily stalling is...I will really miss these people. They are my coworkers, my friends who know me for me and will stand by my side regardless. My wish is that by me leaving my job, things won't change too much. I only hope they know that I'll never be the same after having met them...nevermind being without them for 6 months. Mushy right? Well, it's true.

Ok moving on to more bitchy posts...

What is old?

2009-07-26T16:36:00.002-05:00

I recently watched a movie that I remembered seeing as a kid. I mean I have no fond memories of this particular flick, just remember watching it a long time ago. Every aspect of the movie...the clothes, the music, the actors...nothing seemed odd or old about them. Suddenly I realized the cars being driven in some of the scenes. Then I realized, oh yeah, this movie is older than I'm thinking. So I hit the "info" button on the remote...it was filmed in 1990. 1990! I know it's obvious but I never truly thought about 19-freakin'-90 being almost TWENTY YEARS AGO! So as time passes...the movies, the music, the ideas, the innocence of everything back then just become "dusty". So what is old? I mean if these things never seem "old" to me, then what is old? I guess it's something I've begun thinking about since I'm turning 30 soon and while 30 is certainly NOT old, its strange that the older you become, the older older gets.

Ya know...sometimes, you just have to wipe off the dust and suddenly everything becomes new again.

The great debate...

2009-07-24T19:26:00.003-05:00

**WARNING: Mindless and a little silly!**

Ok, well this debate is all in my head. It's also very simple...well to you maybe LOL.

What exactly should I be taking to Kansas? I mean besides the obvious, what "extras" do I take to help the place feel more like "home"? It's odd that the things I'm debating the most are my kitchen appliances. It's odd how everything suddenly became more important, even though I don't use them as often as I should. Case in point...my KitchenAid mixer. I've used it mainly to make mashed potatoes...DELICIOUS mashed potatoes but still. I should be baking my ass off with it (which would be awesome), however, when you see the ingredients you have to buy and then the waste the product will be because you know you won't eat it all...it becomes a waste of time and money to bake. Mashed potatoes however, that's reason enough. Afterall, the only oven I will have in Kansas is a toaster oven! The other reason it's an issue...we have a few friends that will be taking some of our stuff, only for the time we're in KS. Isn't it strange how such things suddenly have meaning to you but only when it's possibly going to be used by someone else? I suppose that question has more connotations than a KitchenAid mixer, but you get the gist. I've also been accused of being a bit of a pack rat, I mean I did, within the last few months, finally get rid of all my notes/tests/projects/etc from, oh about 8th grade through college. Yes, it was a disaster but it's something to consider.

Anyway, seriously....Crock pot, blender, food processor, mixer, stock pot, wok, all my knives, my utensils....UGH. There is no storage in that hotel and no room, hence my dilemma. I know it's silly but it's just on my mind tonight, since I'm going to try and figure it all out tomorrow. Wish me luck...I will need it. Afterall, anyone that's sentimental/worried about a mixer obviously needs help. LOL

At home alone...

2009-07-13T17:11:00.003-05:00

It's strange how one person leaves, with you soon to follow, but not for some time and the place suddenly...well...no longer feels like "home". I've been wanting all day to just pack everything up, get it all done, get the movers here early, and get it all moved to a storage facility. So, when the time comes, all I have to do is put what little I'm actually taking with me in the car and go. However, that's MUCH easier said than done. Plus, I'd be sleeping on the floor for the next 6 1/2 weeks, well actually, that may be better than the bed lol. Honestly, I wish this could happen but, I'm not even up to the task today. I've been laying around all day, depressed and, actually sick. Although I've come to realize this "illness" must be stress induced given the weekend. However, tomorrow is a new day. We'll see.

A Potpourri of Posts

2009-07-11T19:52:00.002-05:00

I realize I haven't posted anything in quite some time. I can't really give a reason why except that I've been dealing with a lot given this move to Kansas and work, so I've just not felt very "bloggy" (?) lately. So the following are some random thoughts and observations that I've come across lately. I apologize in advance for a very lengthy post! It's really just a mix of everything lol....

1. I saw a woman tonight driving a scooter down Preston, in a dress and texting on her cell phone. Genius. Hey, at least she was wearing a helmet for when has an accident and, mark my words, she will have an accident. People can't even text while driving a car at 40mph, much less a freakin' scooter! Oh and let's not get into the fact she was driving a motorcycle-type vehicle in a dress...classy.

2. I'm feeling very sad and not all that physically well this weekend. It's not the best combo. I just keep telling myself, in two months, everything will be sorted out and we'll be able to move on as a unit again.

3. After putting in my notice at work, I'm thankful I'm leaving. I see it as a "kick in the pants"-type thing, primarily because I never looked at what I do as a career. It was to be a "stepping stone" to bigger and better things. At some point during the last 4 years, I found myself in a rut known as Windhaven. It's sad because I feel I've made amazing friendships there and they've given me A LOT as an employee. I guess you'd say it's bittersweet but completely for the best.

4. Speaking of Windhaven, many people have asked if I will go back to work there once we move back to the area. Well for starters, I'm not even sure we'll be living in the Dallas area but, more importantly, after recent events, I don't feel it's really an option. You see, once they sold the practice to a corporation, the "management" (if you can call it that) has found themselves under a budget in a less-than-stellar economy. At one time, I was offered a leave of absence and was told, on more than one occasion, that it was available to me. However, when bringing it up to said "management" during my review fairly recently, things got weird. I was told they would have to speak to this corporation regarding it. It's BS since this corporation is a "hands off" company, nothing has "changed" and Dr. Shuffield will continue to be the person hiring, etc. So I quickly realized that by me leaving, they will be saving over $1000 per month. I certainly hope that when "management" gets their bonus, they see my face stamped on it with a big "Fuck you". Sorry, this is in no way intended for the ONE person I feel is a manager and a friend...you know who you are should you read this. To her...I hope you see the light at the end of the tunnel and I'm always, always on your side. (As a side note, I'm not bitter, just aggravated with this place)

5. I have many people to train and, so far, I love the people that have been hired. I regret only having a month and half to get to know them.

6. Kansas? Of all the states in the US, it's one I've never even had the desire to visit and yet I'm moving there. Ok, granted it's only for 6 months but I will say this, there is a rhyme and a reason for everything. This too is part of the big picture, I will just take it as it comes and enjoy what I can. Who knows.

7. Scared Hitless, my softball team, has an official record of 1-4-1. Although we have that one game we tied, we're still tied for last place in the league since it doesn't count as a win. I have to say that since we stopped practicing, we've begun to really suck (for lack of a better word). I mean the worst team in the league beat us a couple of weeks ago. It was an embarrassment to say the least. I figure everyone deserves a win, I just wish it wasn't against us! As for practicing, many on the team won't commit to it so my opinion is...when we lose because we're sucking it up, those people that are bitching about the loss should think about actually practicing...those same people being the ones that can't commit. Frustrating really.

8. I've become increasingly frustrated with certain people on Facebook. I'm not even referring to those individuals that choose to support ignorant things by becoming a "fan" as previously blogged. Instead, I'm frustrated with some people that have become a "friend" but choose not to acknowledge my comments to things such as their pictures, etc. Perhaps I'm being silly, but I can't help but think that it has something to do with me, personally. A small aspect of my life that they disagree with, something so minuscule in the grand scheme of things regarding me as a person. If that's truly the case, I would just delete them because I have better friends than they ever were, regardless of the fact I've known this person (and been a true friend) since I was 5 years old. Aside from that person, I see a person commenting on others status', pics, etc that actually deleted me on Myspace. She even gave me a reason/lengthy message for deleting me on Myspace. I think it's HILARIOUS that she actually believes she's a "holier-than-thou person" given her past. I was deleted for being "something" I did not choose, however, I am the person I am and, not only have I accepted that, but the people I love and consider my "family" feel the same. That being said, I feel that the life I've lead is worthy of everything she says I'm not. It's unfortunate that a, literal, CRACK WHORE, thinks she's above me. She shall remain nameless but, I hope she knows, she too will be judged as she has judged me. Sad really. Speaking of judging, turnabout is fair play...I'm LITERALLY so much better than her, it makes me laugh. No one that reads this is that person I must say, some of you may be "friends" with her on FB though...beware.

9. I invite you to watch Tying The Knot and For The Bible Tells Me So. If you don't want to, that's ok, I don't judge you. I just figure given what was just blogged regarding someone that decided I was not worthy of being a friend, I'd give you the option to see the "other side". Please do not take offense, these are just two documentaries that I've seen where I can relate. I'm no crusader, it's just interesting to me.

10. last I heard North Korea was saying that the US was basically making a declaration of war against them (or something to that effect). However, the news has been overwhelmed with the deaths of Farah Fawcett and, more "notably" Michael Jackson. Can I just say, I'm SICK of seeing news reels and headlines regarding MJ's kid, Paris, crying and exclaiming what a great father he was, etc. It's sickening. The media needs to let it go. Yes, Michael Jackson will be more famous in death than life. Let it happen people, let it go. Unfortunately there is more going on with this world than the death of a pop star, regardless of his fame. Sad but true.

Frustrated...

2009-06-29T19:54:00.002-05:00

Not to continuously harp on this whole moving ordeal BUT I HATE the fact we have no idea where yet! I mean this past weekend, I literally sat here in front of the computer and researched cities in those states I PRAY we don't move, simply to find a glimmer of a reason to be 'ok' moving there. Yeah it was a daunting task. As a matter of fact, one of the cities in OK, that has a store, literally has a population of 4500. Don't get me wrong, I know where I come from and I will NEVER deny that. However, I don't want to move somewhere like that for 6-10 mos. I can only imagine how difficult it would be to find a job! So I'm hoping beyond all hope that we'll be moving somewhere that is worthy of my affection...if that makes sense. When I say I want to move somewhere with nature, I suppose I should clarify. I realize there are nature preserves, trails, lakes, etc, etc, in every state/city/country locale. However, I want to live somewhere where the draw to THAT place IS the natural environment. In other words, I've always wanted to live somewhere that instead of seeking entertainment from the movies, shopping, a mall, a bar or other such place, I can explore the natural beauty of my surroundings as a fulfillment of those previously mentioned things. I know it doesn't make much sense since I'm not sure how to explain it. I guess I just want to see the natural world in it's own beauty without it being some homogenized replication of what it should be...like a park with trails or a man-made lake. Ok, nevermind, I can't explain it lol. It must be said however, I need details about this job though...no seriously, I NEED DETAILS!!!

It's official....

2009-06-25T19:11:00.002-05:00

Yes the job has been offered and it has been accepted. For many of you following this blog and my Facebook, we have been wondering and waiting about this particular job for a while....literally 3 WEEKS! So finally today, we got word that it is "officially official". So now I can talk about it. I could have before but ya know, if I did, then it would be jinxed...yes I'm like that lol.

Almost 3 weeks ago Seam attended a management job fair for a company called ALDI. Many of you may have heard of this company in recent days on the news. It's a grocery store chain coming to the North Texas area. They actually have almost 1000 stores in the US already (it's a European company), all of which are in the Eastern US. While we've heard GREAT things about the company from employees regarding pay and benefits, we've only heard, well not necessarily negative but not great, things from customers. So, essentially it's a toss up and a big risk but an amazing opportunity. From what I've read, this store is essentially the equivalent to an IKEA of grocery stores. They have mostly private label products but they're all made from the major manufacturers, i.e. you can buy cheese there called Craft but it's made by Kraft...that sort of thing, not exact but you get the idea. So, after every interview he felt it was a bust but they kept calling him back, this past Monday he attended his 4th interview and was offered the job but it was conditional on a background check and drug test. Well I knew those would pass, so it was only a matter of time. The DETAILS, however, are still not quite there. I mean, we know what the pay is for training, we know they pay $400 additional for incidentals per month in training and we know they will pay for rent while in training. What we DO NOT know is WHERE the training is...since there is no store in TX yet, it will not be here but they claim it will be close to Texas. Ok, that's where the concern comes into play. I only say this because I refuse to live in Oklahoma or Kansas...ANYWHERE else and I'm ok. We don't even know if they will pay for moving expenses or current lease obligations...we just don't know. All I know is that I may be needing to find a new job in a different city soon, or if it's CLOSE (aka OK) then I'll have to get used to living alone for the time being. I mean, I honestly see no point in moving to somewhere 3 hours away and possibly losing my job because of it...right? So for now, those are the details...I just wish I knew more.....

The Gas Station...

2009-06-21T11:41:00.002-05:00

Last night while out getting food for us, I had to stop and get gas at the Chevron near our place. I went inside and there at the counter was an apparently drunken West Plano "gentleman". I use that term lightly in this case given his current state HOWEVER he seemed to be the type that would normally be a fine upstanding citizen of the city making his large sums of money but had a bit too much fun last night. That being said, he wasn't causing a scene or anything, I could just tell he was drunk. I mean the guy was using the counter as a crutch to stand up straight. Ok so, this guy was barefoot, who walks into a convenience store BAREFOOT, I guess it didn't matter given what I saw. You see, this guy not only purchased a 6pk of Budweiser (just thinking about that beer makes me shudder) and 5 cans of Bandit snuff (or whatever it is), he also purchased scratch off lotto tickets. Ok no biggie, it's not an unusual thing to see a guy buying beer, nicotine and lotto tickets in Texas, it's not really even unusual that he was barefoot, I mean Texas has a reputation to uphold. THE BIG DEAL here was the total. This guy spent $500!!! I couldn't believe it, I looked at the register THREE TIMES...yep, $500 or my car payment, ya know nothing but 'a drop in the bucket' for a W Plano redneck. So he proceeded to stumble out the door and got into his $100K Mercedes...sped off, probably running a red light or something.

The moral of this story...if you ever see ME at a convenience store and my total is $500, you have my permission to slap the crap outta me! Hmmm, now I'm wondering if he won anything.

Should I see a doctor?

2009-06-20T18:18:00.001-05:00

We played game #3 on Tuesday night against ION, we won 11-3...WOOHOO!!! However, I have yet ANOTHER injury...I think. See every game and every practice thus far, the same thing has occurred. As I swing the bat, the muscle/s just above my left hip and near the left side of my abdomen...pull. It hurts...everytime, but usually I can play through the pain because, let's face it, I may be the second oldest person on the team BUT I refuse to act that way. Well that night, on my third time to bat, I swung & hit the ball. However, it was different, I felt a "pop" in that same region and it got really warm, similar to if someone were to pour a cup of warm water on your stomach. However, it did not hurt as bad as usual. So, it kinda scared me because it was "different". As a matter of fact, as I ran to first base I was ONLY thinking of that, then I was told, "Um Kev, you were called out". How embarrassing but it wasn't until I got to the dugout and sat for a couple minutes before I asked why I was out, well the ball was caught in the outfield...I had no idea. Needless to say, I took myself out of the game and sat the bench. Later that night was a little painful, I had trouble sleeping until I took about 5 Ibuprofen. Then after every cough, sneeze, blow of the nose or weird movement there were SHARP pains. It's not quite as bad now but I still feel some pain, at times it's unexpected, not to mention that side of my abdomen feels a bit larger than the other. Anyway, I just don't want to be, you know, "one of those people" that see the doctor for every minor reason under the sun. Ugh, I'm just SICK of dealing with is and it's beginning to piss me off. I want to play dammit! Ok, I'm done now.

Job Update....

2009-06-20T18:04:00.002-05:00

On interview #4...it kinda feels like we're being "strung along" at this point. I'm personally hoping there's not a 5th interview! I guess we'll know more on Monday. It's a great opportunity, hoping for the best but expecting the worst and the "worst" isn't so bad.

What if I had to move...

2009-06-11T20:09:00.004-05:00

As some of you know, there's a possibility I will be moving within the next 2 months. I mean moving FAR away. A job has come into our "picture" that will require relocation but ONLY for 6-10 months. This makes me nervous but it got me thinking...

It's certainly not the first time I planned to move away. We had almost everything ready to leave and move to Orlando, oh about 3+ years ago. Literally, I was down to pricing the Uhaul with car trailer before I DECIDED we should stay. I opted to stay because I saw my niece Emma walk for the first time. I decided I did NOT want to miss those "firsts", if you will. So we stayed and I've YET to regret staying. Of course that move was a permanent move. We are now talking a temporary move to somewhere we probably would never want to live.

This possibility, however, throws a wrench into everything. We are currently under a lease with our (stupid) apartment #1. Then, what about Hero (dog)? What about Lucy(cat)? Of course they would go as well but they've never been on a trip like this. What about my FREAKIN' JOB?!?! Don't get me wrong, there are days I'd love nothing more than to walk away BUT those are few and far between. I love the people I work with, they are my friends. I like our clients (most) and the pets (again most) but I could never expect them to hold my job until I get back, especially with what I am currently making money-wise! OK so, it just brings up a lot of questions. I mean my previous reservations (ie my niece NOW nieces) may never remember I was gone, we're talking 6-10mos. Of course, I will come home at some point during that time. What would I even do during that time? I could never expect to begin a "career". It's just a strange thought but, becoming a very real one. So, for now, I have to say this opportunity is, truly, an amazing one...so if you pray, if you simply keep people in your thoughts or if you have some connection to this company (lol)...pray, think and put in a good word. As much hassle it may be at first, it will be worth it in the end...for us, for my nieces, for my family. So I'm hoping for the best, but if it doesn't come to pass then it was meant to be. At least that's the way I'm looking at it.

Game Numero Dos

2009-06-10T19:48:00.004-05:00

Ok, I know I didn't post anything about our first game, however, it should go without saying something WAY more important than some softball game came into my life that day...my gorgeous niece Brynlee.

We had our second game last night against "The Dream Crushers"...what a bunch of douchebags! Alright maybe that's harsh but who cares, they literally think they are the best team ever. Since they're only the second best team in the league why not be a BIT more humble?!?! The pitcher makes me sick...literally. HOWEVER, their trash talk ONLY began once they realized we were better than they thought! Oh yeah, what now, WHAT NOW!?!?! Haha. We did really well I think. You see our first game we lost because the people did not want to swing the freakin' bat in the first inning. It was our first game and the first time our pitcher ever pitched. So they "run ruled" us in the first inning (5 runs) due to walks. The difference between that game and this most recent one, the team we played LOVED to hit the ball, WHICH is awesome...simply because we are great on defense! So yeah, we did great as a team in my opinion! I mean I, personally, got three outs and knocked the tying run in. HOWEVER, we would have, literally, won the game except for the stupid rules of Coed Recreational Softball in the City of Plano. Yes, Ladies and Gentlemen, one of our teammates ran home TO THE WRONG HOME BASE! Everyone, altogether...OMG! Yes, he was counted as out and the person that ran home after him was forced to go back to third. It sucks but that's life. The score should have been 8-6...instead it was 6-6, something I can live with. The sad truth is, we will not be able to play this team again. Simply because, I believe, we are the newest team to the league and, therefore, are not scheduled to play the "veteran" teams twice. Yes, if you place first in your league then you must move on to the next, more competitive league. It makes sense BUT I wish we could play them just ONE more time. We are SO much better than they are!

Facebook

2009-06-08T19:37:00.002-05:00

I became a member of Facebook a while ago because I knew a lot of people used it and I thought I'd check it out. Eventually everyone was moving from Myspace to Facebook and so I followed. I figured it was better to keep in touch with these people than to simply ignore, yet another, "networking" site. So Facebook became an addiction I suppose, still is really. However, the point I'm getting to is some people use it as a platform...people I'm "friends" with. These platforms are tedious, to say the least. For example, some decide they want to join a group that hates our president. I do not care what political party you follow, if it is our president...you stand behind him/her. I may not have agreed with some of the policies/decisions from the past 8 years or even today, but I'll be damned if I don't stand behind my president. Now we have a president with some conservative views...ok, so now you join a group, on FACEBOOK no less, saying you're against them? Unfortunately that means you're against me...a person that considers himself a true American, for whatever that's worth.

And moving on...some people choose to voice their personal tribulations via their Facebook updates. I'm seriously not trying to be mean BUT perhaps said people need to rethink their motives. Not everyone is willing to lend a helping hand, especially people who no longer know you. I dunno perhaps professional help is necessary. Again, I'm not trying to be rude, I'm just saying, if that's your MO...you need a reality check. It's getting old. Really old.

There are many other aspects that I take issue with but the two above are the biggest. I just feel that, if you're choosing to take a HARDCORE stance on something, do it outside of Facebook...I mean seriously, FACEBOOK?!?!?! It is far beyond me to speak against what people believe in, and I'm not referring to joining a group AGAINST animal abuse or a group AGAINST cancer. That being said, how these people choose to voice their opinion, especially when it's in my face, as it is on my Facebook page, it's a problem for me. This goes far beyond the above issues, I mean we're talking everything from religion to, honestly, straight out ignorance. Ok, I'm officially stepping off my soap box now. I would just delete my Facebook account but, as I said before, the addiction holds strong LOL.

Brynlee

2009-06-07T21:10:00.003-05:00

I went to Gunter today, unfortunately Seam had our camera in his car. I WISH I had it!! She is so beautiful and SUCH a GREAT baby! However, I am truly a wuss when it comes to infants, I never held Emma as an infant and I will not hold Brynlee...it SERIOUSLY makes me nervous. Hell, it makes me nervous when other people hold her (and Emma back then), despite their experience!!! I know, I'm weird. Anyway, Brynlee and Emma have my heart...I love them both so much and am so proud of them!!! Ask any of my friends, I'm continuously showing pictures of them to anyone who will give me a chance LOL! Ok, done being mushy for the time being....

Catfish Plantation

2009-06-07T19:07:00.003-05:00

So a group of us known as the "Wine & Spirits Club" get together every so often, well, simply because we all share in a fascination of the paranormal (I know, I know...whatever) and, of course, wine. We are not fanatics, it's nothing official and certainly not scientific. It's always a GREAT time and we had a recent outing to Waxahachie, basically just for dinner. Catfish Plantation is a restaurant that has been seen on the Travel Channel in an episode called Extreme: Restaurants as one the most haunted restaurants in the US AND I believe I went there way back in junior high as part of the Discovery program. We were looking forward to it to say the least, I mean who else would drive to Waxahachie JUST for a meal?!?!

Ok so, we get there and the house is beautiful. Oh, I forgot to mention the restaurant is in an old Victorian-style house. I'm a HUGE fan of these old homes, as a matter of fact, I wish I owned one. Alright moving on...we get there and finally get seated, it's just as you would imagine any Victorian style home, I believe we were seated in what would be known as the parlor. Upon entering the restaurant, I was overcome by a weird feeling (I didn't mention this to anyone). It literally felt like someone put their hands on my head and began squeezing...there was so much pressure, a headache was to come I could feel it. However, once we got seated, it went away...strange right? Ehh I dunno. Anyway the service was ok. I thought it was strange the waitress felt the need to "explain the menu", I mean seriously? Explaining a menu? Isn't it self explanatory? Whatever. Then she proceeded to tell us that their catfish is boneless....ok, good? Who eats fish full of bones? (Am I in a minority regarding this?) I, for one, wasn't EVEN considering eating the catfish, it's a disgusting bottom feeder that ALWAYS tastes fishy despite it, "not tasting fishy at all" according to our informative waitress.

Needless to say I did not opt for the fish, instead I ate stuffed crab. It was delicious, however I've been spoiled by the crab I had in San Francisco (hint, hint to a recent blog post).

Ok, I digress. This place was gorgeous, yes it's a restaurant full of fried food BUT there's something about a house that's over 100 years old full of antiques that pulls at my heart. Weird, I know. I think it's the sentiment, I mean you know that someone A LONG time ago loved their possessions just as much as you appreciate them NOW. Strange again, but I can't help it lol. So yeah, it was a fun experience. Nothing out of the ordinary really occurred. One guys butter knife "moved" but, who's to say that's something paranormal. I've yet to truly experience something paranormal...well except in Jefferson. That's a story for another day though.

So after our meal in Waxahachie, we headed to S4...again, a story for another day. HOWEVER for those who know what it's like in the Rose Room...we got picked on, HARDCORE. LOL!

Yet again, a great time was had by all!

As requested from Kendra....

2009-06-04T21:48:00.002-05:00

Brynlee and Emma

Inspiration

2009-06-04T21:45:00.003-05:00

I recently read a blog post from a friend of mine regarding a city that she is passionate about. It gave me inspiration because I'd love to share with everyone the two places I'm passionate about. One destination I've only been to once but foresee MANY trips in the future. The other, let's just say...everyone will see it coming lol. So look for it in the very near future....

Brynlee Dean 06/02/2009

2009-06-03T18:50:00.003-05:00

I'm a day late in posting this but you have to understand just how TIRED I was yesterday afternoon. So here it is...

Brynlee was brought into this world at 7:55am, she was 7lbs 7oz, 18 inches long and has a head full of hair! I guess Kendra's continuous indigestion/heartburn was an indication of this (isn't that some ol' wives tale? ya know what I'm talking about). My official job was to take pictures of Emma as she saw Brynlee for the first time. First of all, prior to Brynlee's birth, she was overwhelmed with the whole situation but ECSTATIC about the elevator. She kept asking to get back on it. Mind you, this all took place at Wilson N. Jones Hospital, the elevator was a little scary to say the least. Finally, the time came when Brynlee was brought to the "window". Let me just say, for some reason, Emma became really bashful. It was almost as though she KNEW we all wanted to see her reaction and, therefore, the shyness began. However, after about an hour, she would not stop talking about her sister...she wanted to hold her, she wanted to give her a bottle to see if she may be "thirsty". She's going to be such an awesome big sister!

Brynlee looks just like Emma when she was born...from the cute little fat cheeks to the eyes to the hair. It's almost like she's a clone lol. At this point it should go without saying my sister only has gorgeous children so, of course, she's going to be quite a beauty. It's truly remarkable just how much love a person can feel for one person and while you can't imagine another addition to your family, another comes and when it happens, your heart just opens up and fills with that love.

Now I would love nothing more than to post pictures of the new addition to my family BUT, I will leave that for her mother to do. However, here are a couple of pictures of Emma waiting and then seeing her baby sister for the first time!

Alzheimer's Project

2009-05-30T17:52:00.003-05:00

It's a documentary on HBO that I've recently been watching and it makes me wonder, especially with my family's multitude of genetic disease, including Alzheimer's. I keep imagining what it will be like IF/when my mom, or my dad, find themselves in that predicament. I've yet to watch an episode without a tear or two. See, my great grandmother (mom's side) has dementia, she never knows who I am, and her sister, brother and sister-in-law had/have Alzheimer's. It's inevitable that someone closer to me will have it, it may be years but it's something to consider now given my Nanny's current situation. At family functions I no longer approach Nanny Rhea, I dunno if it's fear or what, but I'm afraid that, should I approach her for the usual hug, she will look at me and ask, "who are you?". My sister and I have never been close to our Nanny Rhea. She has a HUGE family and lives in Dallas, so growing up in Gunter, we only saw her on holidays. On those occasions (and less than 5 years ago), we always saw her with her pearls and a dress on, looking at us saying "hug my neck" and "I've lost 10lbs, can you believe it!" (she always looked the same, but you had to love her consistency). Now she sits there, with her walker and looks at you as though she has no idea who you are. Again, I've never been close with Nanny Rhea but I'm afraid my mother will follow in those footsteps, perhaps years from now but this show has made me think of it. It just makes me sad that's all. Damn HBO!

***Can't we just go back to the previous post DANG!***

I've waited long enough...

2009-05-30T16:57:00.002-05:00

If you know me, then you also know of my (borderline) obsession with Disney. Yes, it's true, I'm as big a kid as any when it comes to Disney! In this post, I am going to attempt to explain the reason for this obsession, it's difficult (truly) to explain but I will give it a shot. I apologize in advance for it's length.

In the Spring of 2002, I was talked into interviewing for an internship with Disney. I must say my motives were not the best (told it was a huge party basically). I did need a break from school as my grades were slipping horribly. As my mom says, every kid goes through that rebellious stage and I was definitely a late bloomer. I would literally go into tests heavily hungover. So a change was necessary and this internship seemed like a starting point, well from the bad grades at least lol (as I said before party+no school=good idea). It was a much difference experience though.

Yes there was definite partying (I never did nor will I ever do hardcore drugs in case that's what you're thinking) and lots of other things but, much more importantly, I not only found myself but lifetime friendships. I was not a huge Disney fan before, however something changed in the midst of this experience and, to this day, I cannot pinpoint it. That being said, when you're there, the mood is contagious, almost electric. It's like instant smile, it's almost a drug. It literally feels like ANYTHING can happen. I remember being at work one day at EPCOT and going to the breakroom, there was a TV on the news and my friend Beth and I watched in amazement as the US was bombing someone. We had no idea, you literally live in a bubble there. It's as though the outside world does not exist, you're just happy, almost euphoric. Dreams really do come true there, as hard as it was to even type that (given the corny factor), it's very true. If there is any advice I can given an adult, when going to Walt Disney World, it's...just let it in, be a kid again, that's what this place is about.

Obsession is a strong word and I'm not sure I'm officially obsessed with Walt Disney World; however, I cannot even consider a vacation without FIRST considering going there. I almost feel guilty if I want to go somewhere else, weird I know, which is probably why I've been 5 times since 2003 (when the internship ended). I never regret that though, I should say that first and foremost. I love it and I literally share in the excitement when someone I know is going, I love giving advice about the parks because (again corny) I want to SHARE the way I feel about it. As a matter of fact, I began planning a trip to take my niece Emma BEFORE she was born (ok that is weird I guess) and now I have another niece to plan for! Honestly, I would love nothing more than for my entire family to go together!

So, since I'll be 30 this year, I'm going to Walt Disney World (aka WDW) AGAIN! Well, that is, unless we can figure out a way to get to Alaska (my other obsession lol) without snow in October.

So, basically, if you were to draw a line that represented the things in my life that matter most...going to Disney for the internship definitely created a "blip" in that line. It's the same blip you see in the movies where a "cure is found for a disease" or, quite frankly, when you realize the important things in life and, while going to Disney is not important in the grand scheme of things, it's where I want to be.

***I must add I have not gone on vacations ONLY to WDW! We've also been, within recent years, to Key West, San Francisco and St Croix, USVI! So, I'm not THAT obsessed!***

Game #1

2009-05-27T19:00:00.003-05:00

I arrived at the fields almost an hour early. I figured it would be beneficial to at least see a game before playing one, I mean with all the silly rules and everything. It was interesting, seems like a regular game except those pesky rules, but they didn't get in the way. I would be lying if I didn't mention how incredibly nervous I was. As a team, we seemed so unorganized until I saw the team we were playing. They were passing out their shirts just before the game began. As for the shirts, I must say...we did good! The other teams all had the same colors with only numbers on the back...we actually looked like a team! Well to me anyway. Our final team member arrives just 5 minutes before the game, very little time to warm up. We are up to bat first (away team), first batter up...hits the ball...OUT. Second batter up....hit to second base and thrown out at first. Third batter up....STRIKE! Then, the game got called. Yes one of those little things we call a Spring thunderstorm moved into the area and the lightning show began. So we didn't get to play but that's ok. I say this because we #1 need to be more organized and #2 it actually made us all feel like a team! All in all, it was a good experience despite what happened lol. So, although practice was canceled today (due to stupid excuses from several team members) we will get our act together.

All that being said, I'm not sure I'll make it to our next game. You see a little girl will be brought into this world and our family on June 2nd, it's a given she takes precedence over softball. So, should I be up to the challenge of a game AFTER waking up at 4am and spending the day at the hospital, then I'll report back on how well we do. I must say, however, besides seeing Brynlee that morning, I'm more excited about seeing Emma's face when she realizes she truly has a little baby sister than some softball game.