The "Jew"

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

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...

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

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!!!

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....

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...

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

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...

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

...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

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

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

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

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

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....

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

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

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

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...

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

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

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

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...

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...

...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

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

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...

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...

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...

...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

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....

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...

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

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?

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...

**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...

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

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...

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....

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...

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.