I didn't update on the good news going around here.
I'm looking to start college in the Fall. Wee. All I need now is a good part time job and I'll be very happy.
Sister got a new job. She has better job experience than I do. I'm very happy for her because her husband is doing much better, sounds like he was eating at Christmas. He had a feeding tube for awhile. His beard is growing back but not in all places. He had one since I've met him. I can't recall seeing many adult pictures of him without one. Both her girls have an eye on getting married this year. One was engaged about three months ago and the other just a week ago. Whoo! It's been forever since I've been to a wedding. I really enjoy them.
I'm excited for good things happening to people I know. I hope it filters down making for a much better 2012 than 2011.
Now if I can just decide wether to keep our realtor or not.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Good Tidings and Much Cheer
Christmas Eve was spent at a cousins house with her very noisy kids. I had a very grumpy tired husband on my hands. He got better when he got home. He had to work a very long shift Christmas Eve. I was happy he finally got some sleep.
Christmas day we opened our presents and went out of town to spend some time at the in-laws. We stuffed ourselves silly. She had all manner of treats from white chocolate pretzels with sprinkles to sugar cookies. We watched part of a football game and the Dr. Who Christmas special. Oh, cable, sometimes I do miss you so. heh.
In other years we play bingo but since it was the kids, us and them, she came up with a new game to play... Old Maid. We put the Old Maid cards in the middle of the table and drew one card until the Old Maid card was drawn. That person was eliminated. They would keep going until there was only one person left. The other side of the table seemed very lucky as they kept winning. To speed things up, we changed our tactics and whoever pulled her out first won. Suddenly, my side of the table which was getting eliminated early before was winning. LOL! I seem to do better in games where to win you have to loose.
Happy New Year.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Torture
Hanging out with the younger crowd recently I have been introduced to "Totes" for totally and "Whatevs" for whatever. Used often such as "These newtons aren't too bad."
"Oh, totes girl!"
Got a wild hair up my rear and watched Heathers. They used totes and whatev. I told the girl that it was on there and she flipped back with "Yeah, we're cool. We're bringing it back."
Ah, the folly of youth.
She is a very nice Catholic girl. We decided last night to torture her a little by hinting what another girl bought her for a Christmas present.
Texted: Do you have some extra batteries?
Her: Uhm...
Us: Maybe some D or C cell.
Her: Now I'm getting scared. What did you get me?
LOL! It was perfume but man was it fun making her wonder.
"Oh, totes girl!"
Got a wild hair up my rear and watched Heathers. They used totes and whatev. I told the girl that it was on there and she flipped back with "Yeah, we're cool. We're bringing it back."
Ah, the folly of youth.
She is a very nice Catholic girl. We decided last night to torture her a little by hinting what another girl bought her for a Christmas present.
Texted: Do you have some extra batteries?
Her: Uhm...
Us: Maybe some D or C cell.
Her: Now I'm getting scared. What did you get me?
LOL! It was perfume but man was it fun making her wonder.
Monday, December 12, 2011
This Post Took a Turn
'Tis the season of the Dentist,
Falala lala la la.
My dearest husband hasn't gotten his teeth clean in twenty years. He had a dentist as a teen that was kind of a sadist which really turned him off of dentistry. *sings "I Am A Dentist" from Little Shop of Horrors in head*
So, we trekked to get them clean on a snow falling kind of day. Started out light, got worse as we got closer to the little town where a dentist in his group is actually at. That was fun finding them as the other dentists in the town were pediatric dentist or braces only orthodontics. I could hear the receptionists rolling their eyes as they tried to explain it all to me. Upshot, we can't help you. heh.
I warned the dentist that he doesn't like going.
It was like when he got a tattoo. The hygienist would stop, see how he was doing and give him a little break or remind him he needed to breath. I can't tell you how much I appreciated her patience. Because he's going back. The comic said to her as he was finished up "Best cleaning job I've had in 20 years!"
"Hey, it's the only cleaning job you've had in 20 years!" Did I mention he hates the dentist?
Today I get to take oldest to see if he will get braces or what feel needs done. It's such a wonderfully skippy day! Not looking forward to this.
Update on sis who has become a new grandmother and her husband has been going through cancer treatment.
Haven't heard the news from his latest tests. He's getting along fairly good considering.
She, however, not so much. She got fired from her job Thursday. I suspect it's because she's had such a dramatic year. She couldn't be there for the birth of the baby because she was at a conference type thing. She said her boss was fairly unsympathetic when she told her the news that she was a grandma. Kind of that's great, now about this next meeting.... attitude. I don't know all the details. I just know that it's two weeks before Christmas, her husband has been going through cancer treatments, her daughter had a baby and is to getting a wedding together for April and her other daughter is finishing up a practicum and gearing up for an internship. Seriously, if you pray for strangers, please pray for them.
Ah. I see this post took a left hand turn on me. Well, all well wishes, warm thoughts or prayers are welcome.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Bill The Cat In a Window
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| Bill the Cat as a Window Cling. My Friends and I were on a road trip. It is unfortunate that my scanner is out of commission. This is a picture of a picture. |
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| Attempted close up using the computer. He looks like a skinny Garfield, poor Bill. If I had a digital camera back then, whoo baby! |
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thanks Veterans
I had two Uncle Bob's. Everyone should have at least one at some time.
The oldest Uncle Bob was in World War II, I think. My aunt met him while she worked on a base. I would guess she was in the accounting offices or something, but that could be complete crap. She might of been working on planes for all I know.
By the time I came along and could really remember them from visit to visit they lived in a condo in another state. He was this guy who bought doughnuts in the morning, knew all the best places to eat out because he was a health inspector and would spoil us rotten by letting us go into a toy store and pick out anything we wanted.
He was also the first time I was around someone who had a heart attack. The kids were eating on the balcony and there was a commotion where the grown ups were. My calm and collected aunt was worried and yelling at her precious poodle. We grabbed the dog and kept it's nervous self out of the fray as my mom and cousins husband gave Uncle Bob CPR. He made it through. Mom and the husband saved his life. Hero's of another sort.
He passed away many years later. He smoked a pipe. He had red hair. Red heads, they're everywhere.
My other Uncle Bob was from my fathers side. He had a big barrel chest and a bald spot. He was quiet and kept to himself. He liked to go fishing and camping.
I didn't find out until I was much older that he was badly wounded in Korea. They had to redo his gastric piping, as it was put to me. I don't know what that entailed but it gave him a lifetime of trouble afterwards. He never said a thing about it. I had to get it third hand. Only once did he say he was injured and that's why he didn't like hospitals. He wouldn't say anything else beyond that. I didn't find out he served in Korea until I was in my 20's from his brother.
He died on my birthday two years ago. He didn't want a service, he just wanted to be put in the ground. Thank god my cousins had a grave side service and a gathering after wards. I hope he understands it was for us, not him. I can't remember what was said. It was sunny. I cried with my big assed sunglasses on. They gave me a bit of privacy so I could look at others. One of the attending marines had to lower his head to hide his eyes with his hat. My niece told me later that he went to school with her. She was standing across from him. That's heart when some guy you just kind of know is moved by your emotion.
I heard a high school friend was injured during training. I don't know what kind of training it was. What I heard was it some sort of accident with a grenade. One side of his body was burned along with his arm and hand. He saved someone another life when he did whatever it was he had to do.
He was a bass player. I wondered how that would affect him. He still plays. :)
My father-in-law was a reservist. He got a marks man medal. He gave the boys some of his stuff and I still wonder how in the hell a guy who is 6'5" could have possibly worn a hat that was too tight on a nine year old. No wonder it was still in good shape, heh.
My dad was in the navy. They wanted him to be an electrician. He didn't like it, got shocked a few time too many. He went to his commander and said "Hey, I'm going to get killed because I'm not good at this. I'm a musician." He was reassigned to the Navy band.
He told me how he played for Queen Elizabeth, she was sitting near enough for him to clearly see. He told a story about being on a dock in Italy trying to haul his bass from one place to another. I get a feeling that a lot of his stories weren't always fit to tell a little one so I didn't hear most of them. He had a film taken on a deck of a ship. It's a lot of going up and down with the a grey sea on the horizon.
Thank you to all the veterans. I know you come in all shapes and sizes and backgrounds. I know your not all perfect, don't always feel like a hero or brave. Your doing a job that needs doing. That's what counts. Again, thank you.
The oldest Uncle Bob was in World War II, I think. My aunt met him while she worked on a base. I would guess she was in the accounting offices or something, but that could be complete crap. She might of been working on planes for all I know.
By the time I came along and could really remember them from visit to visit they lived in a condo in another state. He was this guy who bought doughnuts in the morning, knew all the best places to eat out because he was a health inspector and would spoil us rotten by letting us go into a toy store and pick out anything we wanted.
He was also the first time I was around someone who had a heart attack. The kids were eating on the balcony and there was a commotion where the grown ups were. My calm and collected aunt was worried and yelling at her precious poodle. We grabbed the dog and kept it's nervous self out of the fray as my mom and cousins husband gave Uncle Bob CPR. He made it through. Mom and the husband saved his life. Hero's of another sort.
He passed away many years later. He smoked a pipe. He had red hair. Red heads, they're everywhere.
My other Uncle Bob was from my fathers side. He had a big barrel chest and a bald spot. He was quiet and kept to himself. He liked to go fishing and camping.
I didn't find out until I was much older that he was badly wounded in Korea. They had to redo his gastric piping, as it was put to me. I don't know what that entailed but it gave him a lifetime of trouble afterwards. He never said a thing about it. I had to get it third hand. Only once did he say he was injured and that's why he didn't like hospitals. He wouldn't say anything else beyond that. I didn't find out he served in Korea until I was in my 20's from his brother.
He died on my birthday two years ago. He didn't want a service, he just wanted to be put in the ground. Thank god my cousins had a grave side service and a gathering after wards. I hope he understands it was for us, not him. I can't remember what was said. It was sunny. I cried with my big assed sunglasses on. They gave me a bit of privacy so I could look at others. One of the attending marines had to lower his head to hide his eyes with his hat. My niece told me later that he went to school with her. She was standing across from him. That's heart when some guy you just kind of know is moved by your emotion.
I heard a high school friend was injured during training. I don't know what kind of training it was. What I heard was it some sort of accident with a grenade. One side of his body was burned along with his arm and hand. He saved someone another life when he did whatever it was he had to do.
He was a bass player. I wondered how that would affect him. He still plays. :)
My father-in-law was a reservist. He got a marks man medal. He gave the boys some of his stuff and I still wonder how in the hell a guy who is 6'5" could have possibly worn a hat that was too tight on a nine year old. No wonder it was still in good shape, heh.
My dad was in the navy. They wanted him to be an electrician. He didn't like it, got shocked a few time too many. He went to his commander and said "Hey, I'm going to get killed because I'm not good at this. I'm a musician." He was reassigned to the Navy band.
He told me how he played for Queen Elizabeth, she was sitting near enough for him to clearly see. He told a story about being on a dock in Italy trying to haul his bass from one place to another. I get a feeling that a lot of his stories weren't always fit to tell a little one so I didn't hear most of them. He had a film taken on a deck of a ship. It's a lot of going up and down with the a grey sea on the horizon.
Thank you to all the veterans. I know you come in all shapes and sizes and backgrounds. I know your not all perfect, don't always feel like a hero or brave. Your doing a job that needs doing. That's what counts. Again, thank you.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Tiny Steps
U.S. delays massive oil pipeline from Canada
!!!!
For now that's something. I do wonder if it's an attempt to pass the buck or delay the decision. I wonder if they hope people will forget about it, the issue will cool and they will try to slide something by us all.
We will see what comes.
!!!!
For now that's something. I do wonder if it's an attempt to pass the buck or delay the decision. I wonder if they hope people will forget about it, the issue will cool and they will try to slide something by us all.
We will see what comes.
D'OH!
After I heard this on the radio my culminating thought was "HA! Knew it!"
Again, I am uniquely qualified to reassure Trans Canada that power outages do happen a lot. Having gone through a snow storm that took out our power for a week, having to utilize the Red Cross Shelter so our kids could at least get a hot meal (Raman Noodles) and fleeing the area for a couple of days to an empty rental house of a relative, I am well aware of the limitations of the power grid.
During our run, I didn't have my camera with me. The last two pictures are to show examples of what we saw on the road.
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| My Picture^ |
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| A lot of the towers were bent over like this. The weight of the ice on the line plus the weight on the structure bent them like aluminum foil. So, yeah, a lot of issues going on. Put that on top of the Sand Hills and your just asking for trouble. |
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
SOMEONE is Paying Attention
State Department mulls new route for Canada oil pipeline
Well, well, well. Isn't that interesting. I'll wait and watch before I form an opinion on this one.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Special Session Testimony
Watched the testimony of people against the XL Pipeline or for LB whatever..
Strongest testimony for me was a landowner who has been dealing with Trans Canada since 2007 when she first received notice that they were planning on going through her pasture land. She got two letters. She responded to one letter telling them they could move the route two miles away, off her pasture land, and following Hwy. 283. Their response was a solid no. This was in the planning stage of the pipeline. When they certainly had the time and money to change the route. And still they said "No."
She contacted her federal representatives. They told her they didn't even know what she was talking about because they hadn't heard of the Pipeline. She contacted her local govt. They said it was a federal matter and there was nothing they could do. She was told a lot of crap, actually.
To me, it boils down to Trans Canada never considered the people who live, work and use that land. They wanted to go a certain way and who gives a two bit about anything else. It was going to go that way because you, know, who the hell lives there and cares anyway. It's in the middle of nowhere, right?
With calls to move the route, the company claims that it's too late. All those years of work, they just can't go back and start the re routing process now, it's taken four years! Well, four years ago they had at least one response to please move and even in the beginning they wouldn't. This testimony blew holes through all their excuses.
Trans Canada is being like a petulant, spoiled child who thought the adults weren't paying attention. They found out we ARE paying attention and now they are throwing a fit to still try to get their way. To the executives of Trans Canada I say it's time to grow up. Admit you're wrong. Admit you just wanted to get your way no matter what. Admit you thought it was a done deal before you even informed land owners what you were planning to do. Admit you didn't think it all the way through.
The logic, the facts, the testimony are all there. The more they try to tear apart the logical over whelming evidence, the worse they look.
Strongest testimony for me was a landowner who has been dealing with Trans Canada since 2007 when she first received notice that they were planning on going through her pasture land. She got two letters. She responded to one letter telling them they could move the route two miles away, off her pasture land, and following Hwy. 283. Their response was a solid no. This was in the planning stage of the pipeline. When they certainly had the time and money to change the route. And still they said "No."
She contacted her federal representatives. They told her they didn't even know what she was talking about because they hadn't heard of the Pipeline. She contacted her local govt. They said it was a federal matter and there was nothing they could do. She was told a lot of crap, actually.
To me, it boils down to Trans Canada never considered the people who live, work and use that land. They wanted to go a certain way and who gives a two bit about anything else. It was going to go that way because you, know, who the hell lives there and cares anyway. It's in the middle of nowhere, right?
With calls to move the route, the company claims that it's too late. All those years of work, they just can't go back and start the re routing process now, it's taken four years! Well, four years ago they had at least one response to please move and even in the beginning they wouldn't. This testimony blew holes through all their excuses.
Trans Canada is being like a petulant, spoiled child who thought the adults weren't paying attention. They found out we ARE paying attention and now they are throwing a fit to still try to get their way. To the executives of Trans Canada I say it's time to grow up. Admit you're wrong. Admit you just wanted to get your way no matter what. Admit you thought it was a done deal before you even informed land owners what you were planning to do. Admit you didn't think it all the way through.
The logic, the facts, the testimony are all there. The more they try to tear apart the logical over whelming evidence, the worse they look.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Bitch and Moan Time
I see an e-mail about iTunes 99 cent gift cards. It says they put out the $.99 gift cards then raised the prices to $1.29.
Don't know if I ever bought a 99 cent gift card. This does, however, highlight the crapulous day I'm having.
I hate everything. I just... hate everything. I'm not deleting this to be Suzy Sunshine. It's the reflection of the day I'm having. The weather is sleety. I got three calls from the youngest before 8:30 a.m. having a heart attack because he thought he had left two different items for school at home. Both of which were his back pack.
I've been informed that there is no money for back to school training with the unemployment agency. It's On The Job Training or nothing. Well, isn't that cute. Because I can't get a freaking job to save my life. Seriously, it's really freaking pissing me off.
Found out that the stupid teller at the bank took out money from the wrong account Friday putting it into the negative. Which we don't understand how she could have made that mistake when A) the card given her has nothing to do with the account and B) taking money out of that account would put the entire thing in the negative in the first place while the other account obviously had money. The lovely thought from the whole ordeal, SHE has a job. Find out how that levels out when I get a call back from the operators manager.
Still one car down. Said sleet means it won't get towed by us like we planned to do today. It's just not the day for it.
I'm sure I'll have more to bitch about later.
Don't know if I ever bought a 99 cent gift card. This does, however, highlight the crapulous day I'm having.
I hate everything. I just... hate everything. I'm not deleting this to be Suzy Sunshine. It's the reflection of the day I'm having. The weather is sleety. I got three calls from the youngest before 8:30 a.m. having a heart attack because he thought he had left two different items for school at home. Both of which were his back pack.
I've been informed that there is no money for back to school training with the unemployment agency. It's On The Job Training or nothing. Well, isn't that cute. Because I can't get a freaking job to save my life. Seriously, it's really freaking pissing me off.
Found out that the stupid teller at the bank took out money from the wrong account Friday putting it into the negative. Which we don't understand how she could have made that mistake when A) the card given her has nothing to do with the account and B) taking money out of that account would put the entire thing in the negative in the first place while the other account obviously had money. The lovely thought from the whole ordeal, SHE has a job. Find out how that levels out when I get a call back from the operators manager.
Still one car down. Said sleet means it won't get towed by us like we planned to do today. It's just not the day for it.
I'm sure I'll have more to bitch about later.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Radio FAIL
Heading to the store with hubby I wasn't really listening to the radio closely. As we pulled into the parking lot I hear "... bear skin condom." The rest didn't matter because my brain seized upon an impossible mental image. Was it fuzzy? Did it have some weird shape to it? Is this some new slang or innuendo of which I'm not hip enough to know?
After quickly voicing some of these thoughts to my husband, I finally admitted "I just don't get it."
He said "B-A-R-E"
Oh, duh! "Not b-e-a-r. Got it."
Then we giggled non stop for five minutes.
After quickly voicing some of these thoughts to my husband, I finally admitted "I just don't get it."
He said "B-A-R-E"
Oh, duh! "Not b-e-a-r. Got it."
Then we giggled non stop for five minutes.
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| Er.. What?! I'm sure it would have been more clear with some pictures. |
Friday, October 14, 2011
Occupy Atlanta Protest
Well, they are still out there punching away at the corporate fat cats. Occupy Atlanta Protest Canadian Oil Pipeline.
The executives of this company don't want to go through the process of rerouting. I've been reading comments and it looks like there are Canadians who hate them as much as the protesters. That's gotta say something.
The executives of this company don't want to go through the process of rerouting. I've been reading comments and it looks like there are Canadians who hate them as much as the protesters. That's gotta say something.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Los Angeles Times Takes Note
It's heating up. I'm shocked and a tad happy that maybe, just maybe, some people will open their eyes and get the clue that I've been railing about since I first heard about this stupid freaking idea.
Oil Project Draws a Divisive Line, L.A. Times: Residents emphasized that they were not opposed to pipelines — just to burying one under the Sandhills. The Sandhills are the biggest undisturbed natural ecosystem in the Great Plains, full of cranes and herons and tundra swans, yet highly vulnerable to erosion when dug up or otherwise disturbed.
SEE! Told 'ya so. Now will Washington listen before the Sandhills are ruined and we all have to say "See, told 'ya so."
Oil Project Draws a Divisive Line, L.A. Times: Residents emphasized that they were not opposed to pipelines — just to burying one under the Sandhills. The Sandhills are the biggest undisturbed natural ecosystem in the Great Plains, full of cranes and herons and tundra swans, yet highly vulnerable to erosion when dug up or otherwise disturbed.
SEE! Told 'ya so. Now will Washington listen before the Sandhills are ruined and we all have to say "See, told 'ya so."
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Dreaming
Hey, it's Tuesday!
I had the weirdest dream. In it, Johnny Depp apparently is a really nice guy who smells good but is just friendly. What's wrong with my ID?
He walked down a hall, shook my hand then slung his arm around some other person. I'm right by his ear. I can smell him. I tell him he smells nice. He looks at me and says "That's a bit of an odd thing to say." I feel kind of bad so tell him about a project. He thought the story of Black Elk was moving but doesn't really say anything more. He suddenly left as soon as he appeared. (My mind is a maze. I watched a story about the Ponca leader Standing Bear but for some reason I substituted Black Elk. Black Elk might of been mentioned at some point.)
I was in some sort of school going towards my locker. Snow with sunlight behind it came through a cathedral like door. I had to walk through the snow to get to my locker. A photographer had set up his tripod in the hall to get a picture of it. "Sorry, I just got my pearl filters set up!" he said. Meaning he wasn't going to close the door.
I'm so damn nice. "It's OK!" I said. I understood that he had to catch the light while he could and apparently, whatever pearl filters are, they are hard to set up.
I get to the locker. There are only three and they are spaced non uniformly on the wall. I pull on the outer door of mine and it moves down and to the left. In order to get to the inner doors, I have to put the outer one right back where it started. I move it, open it and it falls off. The hinges aren't supposed to do that. I let it drop to the floor anyway. There are two smaller inner doors, like the smaller lockers I got in Jr. High. I open them up and there is a jumble of a mess in there. I start taking out the papers to organize and get something.
That's when Mr. Depp walks in with a false chin, white wig and the Mark Twain outfit.
Just as I'm about to find out if he's truly going to play Mark Twain, my phone wakes me up.
I had the weirdest dream. In it, Johnny Depp apparently is a really nice guy who smells good but is just friendly. What's wrong with my ID?
He walked down a hall, shook my hand then slung his arm around some other person. I'm right by his ear. I can smell him. I tell him he smells nice. He looks at me and says "That's a bit of an odd thing to say." I feel kind of bad so tell him about a project. He thought the story of Black Elk was moving but doesn't really say anything more. He suddenly left as soon as he appeared. (My mind is a maze. I watched a story about the Ponca leader Standing Bear but for some reason I substituted Black Elk. Black Elk might of been mentioned at some point.)
I was in some sort of school going towards my locker. Snow with sunlight behind it came through a cathedral like door. I had to walk through the snow to get to my locker. A photographer had set up his tripod in the hall to get a picture of it. "Sorry, I just got my pearl filters set up!" he said. Meaning he wasn't going to close the door.
I'm so damn nice. "It's OK!" I said. I understood that he had to catch the light while he could and apparently, whatever pearl filters are, they are hard to set up.
I get to the locker. There are only three and they are spaced non uniformly on the wall. I pull on the outer door of mine and it moves down and to the left. In order to get to the inner doors, I have to put the outer one right back where it started. I move it, open it and it falls off. The hinges aren't supposed to do that. I let it drop to the floor anyway. There are two smaller inner doors, like the smaller lockers I got in Jr. High. I open them up and there is a jumble of a mess in there. I start taking out the papers to organize and get something.
That's when Mr. Depp walks in with a false chin, white wig and the Mark Twain outfit.
Just as I'm about to find out if he's truly going to play Mark Twain, my phone wakes me up.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Boys, Me and GAH!
Oldest broke up with his first girlfriend since we moved. He asked another girl out a few days later. That girl said yes so we get to go clothes shopping because his female friends told him a big no to cargo pants, t-shirt and hoodie for the dance. I'm relieved and grateful that they gave him dressing up advice because he won't listen to me, as is normal for any teenaged boy.
I can't say I'm totally broken up about this break up. She lied to her parents about where she was going and what she was doing over the summer. I was never comfortable with that. I told my son I wasn't comfortable with it and eventually they would have to tell her parents about the relationship. She got caught in a lie, telling her mom she'd be one place when she was actually over here. Her mom went to one place and talked to a certain friend. I suspect the mom probably knew she had a boy somewhere, us mom's can tell these things. The girl was grounded for whenever her parents got sick of her being around the house which was about three weeks, give or take a few days. The relationship didn't survive. Oh, woe the relationship. All hail the new one. heh.
Youngest is doing much better in the new school. He has even admitted to liking a girl. OMG! He generally keeps that sort of thing to himself. He has tried out for a state honor choir kind of thing. I'm proud he took the initiative to go ahead with it. He has a hard time making decisions sometimes.
Hubby has had a much needed week off. I haven't killed him... yet. Yesterday was a bit touch and go towards the evening. We both let our inner little brats out to run, never a pretty sight.
We had a parent teachers conference last night. The wood shop teacher said "It's the same in here as it is out there, play by the rules, put a little effort in it and you'll be all right." I wanted to launch myself at him. Really? Play by the rules? What rules? Buy a house, stay at the same job, and apply for jobs your qualified for? Yeah, that hasn't gotten us anywhere but a short sale house, a costly move, getting screwed by unscrupulous employers, unpaid bills and continuing frustration due to unemployment.
Wish I could say things are better for me in the job circle. They aren't. They are getting better in the health circle as long as I don't let the stress of unemployment get to me. I'm going to start looking at volunteer opportunities. I've got to have something in my day besides looking up jobs.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
AHHHH!
More travesty of being unemployed.
Temp agency wants proof that I'm receiving unemployment to prove that I am not sitting on my butt to prospective employers. I have a years worth of rejection letters. That's an average of 3 a week x 4 weeks a month x 12 months = at least 144 rejection letters or job responses. Yeah, 144. Not sitting on my butt, I got your damn proof right here!
It's frustrating to be unemployed because I'm unemployed. Tell me how that makes any sense what so ever?
Temp agency wants proof that I'm receiving unemployment to prove that I am not sitting on my butt to prospective employers. I have a years worth of rejection letters. That's an average of 3 a week x 4 weeks a month x 12 months = at least 144 rejection letters or job responses. Yeah, 144. Not sitting on my butt, I got your damn proof right here!
It's frustrating to be unemployed because I'm unemployed. Tell me how that makes any sense what so ever?
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
New Picture!
I really like my old camera. I would like a new one, but I still like my old one. I do like digital because I can immediately see if I took what I was shooting for or not.
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| The one lovely thing from the house that never disappointed. |
Friday, September 2, 2011
Pay No Attention To That Man Behind...
.. the state fair.
Updated: Sep 02, 2011 3:14 PM
Special Session Urged Over Pipeline Route
Posted: Sep 02, 2011 3:14 PMUpdated: Sep 02, 2011 3:14 PM
By Steve White swhite@nebraska.tv
Now that Governor Dave Heineman has come out against the proposed route of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, farm groups call for a special session of the unicameral.
Nebraska Farmers Union has been talking with ag producers during the state fair.
They credit the governor for listening to their concerns about putting the pipeline through the Sandhills.
Now NFU President John Hansen calls on the legislature to act.
He said, "The ball really is in the legislature's court. So the legislature needs to go into special session so they can deal with issues and authority of siting and routing."
Officials from TransCanada have said the proposed route is safe. They are calling on the U.S. State Department to OK the plan.
TransCanada is one of the sponsors of this year's state fair.
Now that Governor Dave Heineman has come out against the proposed route of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, farm groups call for a special session of the unicameral.
Nebraska Farmers Union has been talking with ag producers during the state fair.
They credit the governor for listening to their concerns about putting the pipeline through the Sandhills.
Now NFU President John Hansen calls on the legislature to act.
He said, "The ball really is in the legislature's court. So the legislature needs to go into special session so they can deal with issues and authority of siting and routing."
Officials from TransCanada have said the proposed route is safe. They are calling on the U.S. State Department to OK the plan.
TransCanada is one of the sponsors of this year's state fair.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
TransCanadian XL Pipeline
Seeing as how the media is f'ing it all up and trying to politicize the hell out of it I felt the need to clear up what's really going on.
TransCanada proposes to build an oil pipeline across the Ogallalla Aquifer. This is an aquifer that spans from Nebraska to Texas. I think it is the largest aquifer in the world. If not 'the' largest then certainly among the largest. It feeds the farm lands, cattle, people in all these states. These are states that sue each other over water rights. The water cycle is taught at fairs held for the local children to see how it is cleaned, preserved and used here. It is precious.
It will be a unprecedented disaster if the pipeline pollutes this aquifer.
When I first heard about this proposed pipeline around Feb. or March and saw the route I thought "Are they serious? They can't be that stupid." When the pioneers came to Nebraska, they thought they would have to dig wells a hundred feet or more to get water. I read a story of a guy who took bets on how deep he'd have to go. Imagine his surprise when he hit water at around 20 feet! This arid, dry grassland with flat water that routinely dried up had easily accessible well water! Not exactly nirvana, but a good thing anyway.
When I was 13 at a family reunion in Halsey, Nebraska, a relative told me they almost lost the sand hills when the ranchers first started out there. They didn't know how to take care of the grass lands yet and they almost lost it all to acres of sand. She told me that it was a delicate balance that they learned to work with to up keep. A DELICATE balance. And they are proposing to build a pipeline right through this balance to carry oil. A pipeline that has had twelve failures in twelve months.
From the start I think TransCanada knew they were going to get a fight. This is the last bit of pipeline. They were unabashed in the propaganda they tried on the TV. "Midwest" looking folk telling us how the pipeline would be good for Nebraska. Jobs that would be good for Nebraska. Good for the children. It was disgusting and easy to see through. Hell, they even are sponsoring Larry The Cable Guy in order to get on our good side.
Give me a break. I'm average. I don't play the social game of life too well. Even I can see that they are full of beans.
This is more than jobs. This is environmental suicide. You pollute that aquifer and you kill agriculture. You kill agriculture and suddenly prices go up at the grocery store. You kill those prices and it gets just that much harder to feed families. Isn't it hard enough already? You poison that much water, you poison the cattle, the plants and the people. You can't put buoys out there to contain it, it's underground! You won't be able to see it until it comes through your pipes and out your faucet.
Sounds like I'm totally against it? I'm not sure I am. I think the route they choose is ill advised and stupid. I think the route was chosen because they thought it could be cheaper. They have already put in a pipeline in Eastern Nebraska were there is clay instead of sand. Why the hell don't they just follow what they already did? Change the route, I say. Just change it.
TransCanada proposes to build an oil pipeline across the Ogallalla Aquifer. This is an aquifer that spans from Nebraska to Texas. I think it is the largest aquifer in the world. If not 'the' largest then certainly among the largest. It feeds the farm lands, cattle, people in all these states. These are states that sue each other over water rights. The water cycle is taught at fairs held for the local children to see how it is cleaned, preserved and used here. It is precious.
It will be a unprecedented disaster if the pipeline pollutes this aquifer.
When I first heard about this proposed pipeline around Feb. or March and saw the route I thought "Are they serious? They can't be that stupid." When the pioneers came to Nebraska, they thought they would have to dig wells a hundred feet or more to get water. I read a story of a guy who took bets on how deep he'd have to go. Imagine his surprise when he hit water at around 20 feet! This arid, dry grassland with flat water that routinely dried up had easily accessible well water! Not exactly nirvana, but a good thing anyway.
When I was 13 at a family reunion in Halsey, Nebraska, a relative told me they almost lost the sand hills when the ranchers first started out there. They didn't know how to take care of the grass lands yet and they almost lost it all to acres of sand. She told me that it was a delicate balance that they learned to work with to up keep. A DELICATE balance. And they are proposing to build a pipeline right through this balance to carry oil. A pipeline that has had twelve failures in twelve months.
From the start I think TransCanada knew they were going to get a fight. This is the last bit of pipeline. They were unabashed in the propaganda they tried on the TV. "Midwest" looking folk telling us how the pipeline would be good for Nebraska. Jobs that would be good for Nebraska. Good for the children. It was disgusting and easy to see through. Hell, they even are sponsoring Larry The Cable Guy in order to get on our good side.
Give me a break. I'm average. I don't play the social game of life too well. Even I can see that they are full of beans.
This is more than jobs. This is environmental suicide. You pollute that aquifer and you kill agriculture. You kill agriculture and suddenly prices go up at the grocery store. You kill those prices and it gets just that much harder to feed families. Isn't it hard enough already? You poison that much water, you poison the cattle, the plants and the people. You can't put buoys out there to contain it, it's underground! You won't be able to see it until it comes through your pipes and out your faucet.
Sounds like I'm totally against it? I'm not sure I am. I think the route they choose is ill advised and stupid. I think the route was chosen because they thought it could be cheaper. They have already put in a pipeline in Eastern Nebraska were there is clay instead of sand. Why the hell don't they just follow what they already did? Change the route, I say. Just change it.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Kids are back in school. Yeah! Er... awww, poor dears with homework and learning and stuff.
Oldest has a new program I call P.P. It stands for Pretentious Program. It's info about colleges and planning his future career. I was told by a guidance counselor when I was in high school to check some schools out, get a couple of letters sent off and it's all good. Now they have an entire program that starts in their Jr. year. Wow, times are a changing.
Youngest is loving his new school. I am too. Last year we had a teacher who I think was a bit off her feed. Every week was some new drama.
By the end of the year youngest was tested for any autistic traits. Turns out he has an excelled math ability and average to below average reading skills. This teacher observed traits used for the evaluation "numerous times" in school yet I hardly ever if at all saw them at home. Why would that be? Why was his grade the lowest in math if he had excelled ability in it? Why was he assigned three books to bring home to read when his skills in reading were struggling? Never understood the logic she was using.
I'm not much of a story teller lately. Maybe later I'll tell you some juicy stories of teen me and my wild ways.
Oldest has a new program I call P.P. It stands for Pretentious Program. It's info about colleges and planning his future career. I was told by a guidance counselor when I was in high school to check some schools out, get a couple of letters sent off and it's all good. Now they have an entire program that starts in their Jr. year. Wow, times are a changing.
Youngest is loving his new school. I am too. Last year we had a teacher who I think was a bit off her feed. Every week was some new drama.
By the end of the year youngest was tested for any autistic traits. Turns out he has an excelled math ability and average to below average reading skills. This teacher observed traits used for the evaluation "numerous times" in school yet I hardly ever if at all saw them at home. Why would that be? Why was his grade the lowest in math if he had excelled ability in it? Why was he assigned three books to bring home to read when his skills in reading were struggling? Never understood the logic she was using.
I'm not much of a story teller lately. Maybe later I'll tell you some juicy stories of teen me and my wild ways.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
To Thine Own Self Be True
I had to a doctor today to get a clearance for how much I can lift. I foolishly thought it meant I would be cleared for a job. They came back with "We don't have anything right now, we'll let you know when we do have something."
Me: What about job at so and so's?
Them: They have to have a requirement of lifting (25 lbs more than I said) just to get the job.
Mother puss bucket sonsabitches. They made it sound like a done deal. I traveled to a docs for a note only to find out I have high blood pressure and the other crap I was trying wasn't helping it. I spent moola I didn't have because I thought it was a sure job.Then they pull that crap.
Instead of worrying about it anymore I will clear my life of those little stresses that have contributed to the BS that lead to my high blood pressure. I'm really not sure how to do that. I'm not sure what those stresses are besides not having a job, being overall down in the dumps about everything.
I'm going to simplify.
No alcohol or caffeine for three months. See how I do. I was only drinking tea! Tea for goodness sake! Watch that stuff, who knew it had such an effect!
That all favorite exercise in the morning and afternoon.
Let the neighbors burn down the house, fall off cars and be overall dumb asses. I'm insured.
Me: What about job at so and so's?
Them: They have to have a requirement of lifting (25 lbs more than I said) just to get the job.
Mother puss bucket sonsabitches. They made it sound like a done deal. I traveled to a docs for a note only to find out I have high blood pressure and the other crap I was trying wasn't helping it. I spent moola I didn't have because I thought it was a sure job.Then they pull that crap.
Instead of worrying about it anymore I will clear my life of those little stresses that have contributed to the BS that lead to my high blood pressure. I'm really not sure how to do that. I'm not sure what those stresses are besides not having a job, being overall down in the dumps about everything.
I'm going to simplify.
No alcohol or caffeine for three months. See how I do. I was only drinking tea! Tea for goodness sake! Watch that stuff, who knew it had such an effect!
That all favorite exercise in the morning and afternoon.
Let the neighbors burn down the house, fall off cars and be overall dumb asses. I'm insured.
Monday, August 22, 2011
*BOOM*
In my profile I speak of land minds littering my familial relationships.
My brother is in an abusive relationship. He leaves, she behaves and does all the right things so he goes back. Then she slides right back into the abusive behavior. To say the whole relationship is complicated would be an understatement of English proportions. He is isolated. The life line my mom, sister and I try to throw out is difficult for him to catch. Sometimes I want to yell at him "JUST FREAKING GET A DAMN CLUE!" But I don't because I know that's not useful and wouldn't help him. It would make me feel better but it certainly wouldn't help anyone else. Her father died last week. He was a man who was worked to death trying to support his hoarding wife.
My husband's aunt is generous, loving and supportive. She also likes to tell people how to do things. If you don't do it her way your crazy because her way is the best way. Your crazy, stupid and lack common sense if you don't do it her way. She's over bearing about her way. She's been giving me advice on how to get a job. Such as, call this place that I've already put an application in and tell them you've put an application in, any openings. Say it just like that with confidence. Anyone who is looking for a job in this day and age knows what the answer will be. Anyone who is looking for a job today knows that it is highly unlikely that the manager's bull dog answering the phone will let you anywhere near the manager's ear. It's a don't call me, we'll call you situation out there now a days. I KNOW this and I called anyway. I got the answer I was expecting. Many applicants, manager doesn't have time, we'll review applications and get back to those applicants with the experience we deem necessary.
I tried engaging this aunt on a level that has nothing to do giving me advice on how to live my life. She couldn't do it, she can't talk to me unless she's trying to sell me something or tell me how I should do things.
My brother in law has throat cancer. It's a rare type. I don't know how treatable it is. I want to be there for my sister and help her out but I think I'd get in the way more than anything. When she is upset she overwhelms herself with things to do so she doesn't have to think about crap. He has four brothers and sisters living in the area. His mom has Alzheimer's and his dad has heart problems.
The oldest can't find his favorite hoodie. He's so sure he wore it back from camp. We have looked for a month. It's just not here.
This morning, youngest couldn't find his tennis shoes. Another screw tightens.
Today I had a fight with my husband. He's stressed out at work, I'm stressed out at home. He stepped on a land mind and I went boom. I yelled at him the entire way back to his work from lunch. My cup runneth over with people who want to tell me how to live my life and I burst like Violet the Blueberry.
I need a vacation from everyone.
My brother is in an abusive relationship. He leaves, she behaves and does all the right things so he goes back. Then she slides right back into the abusive behavior. To say the whole relationship is complicated would be an understatement of English proportions. He is isolated. The life line my mom, sister and I try to throw out is difficult for him to catch. Sometimes I want to yell at him "JUST FREAKING GET A DAMN CLUE!" But I don't because I know that's not useful and wouldn't help him. It would make me feel better but it certainly wouldn't help anyone else. Her father died last week. He was a man who was worked to death trying to support his hoarding wife.
My husband's aunt is generous, loving and supportive. She also likes to tell people how to do things. If you don't do it her way your crazy because her way is the best way. Your crazy, stupid and lack common sense if you don't do it her way. She's over bearing about her way. She's been giving me advice on how to get a job. Such as, call this place that I've already put an application in and tell them you've put an application in, any openings. Say it just like that with confidence. Anyone who is looking for a job in this day and age knows what the answer will be. Anyone who is looking for a job today knows that it is highly unlikely that the manager's bull dog answering the phone will let you anywhere near the manager's ear. It's a don't call me, we'll call you situation out there now a days. I KNOW this and I called anyway. I got the answer I was expecting. Many applicants, manager doesn't have time, we'll review applications and get back to those applicants with the experience we deem necessary.
I tried engaging this aunt on a level that has nothing to do giving me advice on how to live my life. She couldn't do it, she can't talk to me unless she's trying to sell me something or tell me how I should do things.
My brother in law has throat cancer. It's a rare type. I don't know how treatable it is. I want to be there for my sister and help her out but I think I'd get in the way more than anything. When she is upset she overwhelms herself with things to do so she doesn't have to think about crap. He has four brothers and sisters living in the area. His mom has Alzheimer's and his dad has heart problems.
The oldest can't find his favorite hoodie. He's so sure he wore it back from camp. We have looked for a month. It's just not here.
This morning, youngest couldn't find his tennis shoes. Another screw tightens.
Today I had a fight with my husband. He's stressed out at work, I'm stressed out at home. He stepped on a land mind and I went boom. I yelled at him the entire way back to his work from lunch. My cup runneth over with people who want to tell me how to live my life and I burst like Violet the Blueberry.
I need a vacation from everyone.
Friday, August 19, 2011
This is progress?
Riffing, raffing, sasafrassing ... INTERNET!
Couldn't watch Bones on Netflix, it choked. Then when the thing I was watching it on froze, I just turned it off because I couldn't do anything else with it. I had sound, but nothing else. I tried at a different location to watch. It just doesn't want to play.
Either a friend deleted a comment I made or it never posted. I say it didn't post because I've seen that happen right away with another person's page.
I've got errands to run and shopping to do and I'm sitting here contemplating why these things don't work.
And further more, why are the Chinese so damn grumpy? Not only is basketball team expressing themselves badly but something not being covered so much by the TV top three, Chinese officials are cranky too.
Wow, someone next door is having a bad day. Babies crying, doors slamming, cat's meowing. Run for cover! The grumpy virus will find you too!
Couldn't watch Bones on Netflix, it choked. Then when the thing I was watching it on froze, I just turned it off because I couldn't do anything else with it. I had sound, but nothing else. I tried at a different location to watch. It just doesn't want to play.
Either a friend deleted a comment I made or it never posted. I say it didn't post because I've seen that happen right away with another person's page.
I've got errands to run and shopping to do and I'm sitting here contemplating why these things don't work.
And further more, why are the Chinese so damn grumpy? Not only is basketball team expressing themselves badly but something not being covered so much by the TV top three, Chinese officials are cranky too.
Wow, someone next door is having a bad day. Babies crying, doors slamming, cat's meowing. Run for cover! The grumpy virus will find you too!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Yo!
Internet change. Which means my computer wasn't online for awhile. Using another computer is OK but it's like sleeping in a different bed. There are sheets and blankets and pillows, but they aren't my sheets and blankets and pillows. They feel all wrong. Hubby's computer is fast, stable and decent. But it doesn't have my bookmarks, my system or is even at my height. I missed my old thing.
Neighbor kid popped my cork the other day. Some one was obnoxiously honking their car horn. I looked outside and saw it was some kids playing around a car. The doors were open and they were chasing each other through and around the car. I ignored it. Not my car, and obviously a car they knew. The honking stopped, no big deal.
The honking started again. I glanced out the window. One of the boys was on the hood of the car, pounding on it saying "Go! Go! I can do it, just go!" The young teenage driver backed up and started up the lane to the four lane main road. All the while with the boy clinging to the hood. I freaked, ran out on the balcony and yelled at him. Our next door neighbor was outside watching. The kid finally figured out several adults were watching. That's when a glimmer of intelligence fought it's way to his conscious. That thought fought very hard, I think it only got a tiny poke to his brain. He ran over the windshield and top of the car to jump off the trunk, pop out the wheels on his shoes and roll down hill. I was foaming at the mouth.
This is why.
Some days I feel like the grouchy old woman in the building. My rule is if it doesn't affect me, I don't worry about it. I can't help what that boy does in school or out of my sight. The boy getting severely injured by being thrown from the hood of a car might still happen. My son seeing it as it happens... aw, hell no! Not on my shift.
Neighbor kid popped my cork the other day. Some one was obnoxiously honking their car horn. I looked outside and saw it was some kids playing around a car. The doors were open and they were chasing each other through and around the car. I ignored it. Not my car, and obviously a car they knew. The honking stopped, no big deal.
The honking started again. I glanced out the window. One of the boys was on the hood of the car, pounding on it saying "Go! Go! I can do it, just go!" The young teenage driver backed up and started up the lane to the four lane main road. All the while with the boy clinging to the hood. I freaked, ran out on the balcony and yelled at him. Our next door neighbor was outside watching. The kid finally figured out several adults were watching. That's when a glimmer of intelligence fought it's way to his conscious. That thought fought very hard, I think it only got a tiny poke to his brain. He ran over the windshield and top of the car to jump off the trunk, pop out the wheels on his shoes and roll down hill. I was foaming at the mouth.
This is why.
Some days I feel like the grouchy old woman in the building. My rule is if it doesn't affect me, I don't worry about it. I can't help what that boy does in school or out of my sight. The boy getting severely injured by being thrown from the hood of a car might still happen. My son seeing it as it happens... aw, hell no! Not on my shift.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Gusendhiet.
Whew! That was one hell of a cold I caught. I couldn't taste ANYTHING! Which lead me to the realization that the other reasons hamburgers are darn good is that they have a great texture.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Serious fun
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| And... it all falls over! heh. |
REALLY? REALLY! STILL?!
OMG! I thought our neighbor could be taught! I thought he had learning capability. I thought he understood that under absolutely no freaking circumstance is ANYONE allowed to grill/bar-b-q/fry on the balcony.
Guess I'm going to have to be the bitch and put in a formal complaint.
Guess I'm going to have to be the bitch and put in a formal complaint.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Sponateous Combustion
Unplanned for couple time bloomed last night with Youngest going to a group thing earlier than we thought and the Oldest hanging out with his friends for later than we expected.
"Hey! This means it's just you and me for dinner!" That means cheaper eats for going out! And we can test places without having to worry if we're going to waste a ton of money from kids not eating or food being bad.
I thought I didn't like Thai food. Previous tries of it met with failure. Then I had some store bought sweet chili dipping sauce. I LOVE it. This means all of my husbands wet curry dreams were about to come true. I was ready to try the Thai restaurant.
It's a family owned place. The minute we walked in we were happily greeted by the open and friendly waitress/hostess/owner. Very much a change from the now dubbed "Unfriendly" Chinese restaurant. When I ordered tea she explained Chai tea and asked if I wanted that or regular. I'm watching the waistline so I went with regular. Hubby got the Chai, tea infused cream. It's very yummy! What? I had to have a sip or two... or three... OK, four. Four, alright? ;)
Having never gone to a Thai restaurant before I went with whatever had the type of vegetables I like most in it. Chicken Wen Su Hoo? Naw, that's not quite right but it was something like that. Hubby got the green curry. Then the waitress asked how spicy we wanted our dishes. That was new for us. We went with medium. That way we would have spice but not too much. We could gauge what medium was for them. We're not scared of a little burn in the mouth. It can be a nice endorphin rush if you do it right.
We heard her talking to another table about the highest spice level being rated at five. Oh, so we must of ordered a three! We talked about it as we enjoyed some egg rolls. Then our mains came out, oh yummy!
We started to dig in. Ooo, there was ceratainly a bite to it, oh, howdy! I thought I felt a sweat under my eye. I looked across to Hubby and saw a sheen starting to develop on his face. I started contemplating on coming back and ordering the mild next time. I didn't think I could stand hot if this was medium. The chai tea started disappearing a little faster.
The friendly waitress/owner came over and seeming concerned asked us if everything was OK. I figured it's because we hadn't been there before, she is probably used to people being surprised at the spice. Since we were enjoying it and really didn't have any complaints, we told her we were fine. She came over again and we gave our compliments. Hubby's face was sweating. I was feeling hotter but we liked it. Seeing our positive reactions, she fessed up.
"Well, I'm glad. There was a little mix up. I spiced it by eye, turned to do something and my mother hadn't realized I spiced it already. She spiced it again."
"Is this a five then?" Hubby asked with amusement. I knew he was thinking what I was.This was not a normal situation.
"More about a seven."
That was freaking hilarious. Why? Why weren't we outraged that we had something that was probably spicier than the owner would eat? Because we liked it. And because it meant we weren't big old spice wimps. Without ever really saying it, we both wondered if Thai food might just be more than we can handle. 'Lo and behold, we are NOT spice p*ssies and we will be going back there. It also made it that much more fun.
My hat off to the hostess for her timing and honesty. My hat off for giving my body a decent sweat without having to get my butt off the chair. heh.
"Hey! This means it's just you and me for dinner!" That means cheaper eats for going out! And we can test places without having to worry if we're going to waste a ton of money from kids not eating or food being bad.
I thought I didn't like Thai food. Previous tries of it met with failure. Then I had some store bought sweet chili dipping sauce. I LOVE it. This means all of my husbands wet curry dreams were about to come true. I was ready to try the Thai restaurant.
It's a family owned place. The minute we walked in we were happily greeted by the open and friendly waitress/hostess/owner. Very much a change from the now dubbed "Unfriendly" Chinese restaurant. When I ordered tea she explained Chai tea and asked if I wanted that or regular. I'm watching the waistline so I went with regular. Hubby got the Chai, tea infused cream. It's very yummy! What? I had to have a sip or two... or three... OK, four. Four, alright? ;)
Having never gone to a Thai restaurant before I went with whatever had the type of vegetables I like most in it. Chicken Wen Su Hoo? Naw, that's not quite right but it was something like that. Hubby got the green curry. Then the waitress asked how spicy we wanted our dishes. That was new for us. We went with medium. That way we would have spice but not too much. We could gauge what medium was for them. We're not scared of a little burn in the mouth. It can be a nice endorphin rush if you do it right.
We heard her talking to another table about the highest spice level being rated at five. Oh, so we must of ordered a three! We talked about it as we enjoyed some egg rolls. Then our mains came out, oh yummy!
We started to dig in. Ooo, there was ceratainly a bite to it, oh, howdy! I thought I felt a sweat under my eye. I looked across to Hubby and saw a sheen starting to develop on his face. I started contemplating on coming back and ordering the mild next time. I didn't think I could stand hot if this was medium. The chai tea started disappearing a little faster.
The friendly waitress/owner came over and seeming concerned asked us if everything was OK. I figured it's because we hadn't been there before, she is probably used to people being surprised at the spice. Since we were enjoying it and really didn't have any complaints, we told her we were fine. She came over again and we gave our compliments. Hubby's face was sweating. I was feeling hotter but we liked it. Seeing our positive reactions, she fessed up.
"Well, I'm glad. There was a little mix up. I spiced it by eye, turned to do something and my mother hadn't realized I spiced it already. She spiced it again."
"Is this a five then?" Hubby asked with amusement. I knew he was thinking what I was.This was not a normal situation.
"More about a seven."
That was freaking hilarious. Why? Why weren't we outraged that we had something that was probably spicier than the owner would eat? Because we liked it. And because it meant we weren't big old spice wimps. Without ever really saying it, we both wondered if Thai food might just be more than we can handle. 'Lo and behold, we are NOT spice p*ssies and we will be going back there. It also made it that much more fun.
My hat off to the hostess for her timing and honesty. My hat off for giving my body a decent sweat without having to get my butt off the chair. heh.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Progress?
YEAH! They got some pictures up of the house we're trying to sale. The kitchen looks like crap but the rest of it looks OK. I can say that I know I'd be curious about it if I had just been cruising the realty sight.
Now to see if anyone really even wants it in this economy. *worry, worry*
Now to see if anyone really even wants it in this economy. *worry, worry*
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Housing
House is finally up for sale. Bastardo's didn't even bother putting a picture up of it. Could be because the primo bastardo that lived north of us pulled out of town and put his own house up for sale before we could get ours up. Or the realtor is planning on buying it cheap, cleaning it up and reselling it for far more than what we bought it for. I wouldn't doubt it. My dad was aware of that scam when we moved when I was 10. I thought maybe he was paranoid until I read about some dude in Texas getting a house for sixteen dollars that was worth 330,000!
I think I just realized what I couldn't put my finger on before. That town is dirty. Everyone out for themselves and no one really wants to help you out. Not a friendly place at all.
I am reminded of reasons 1, 000 and 1,154 that we moved. Then yesterday reason number 15 was seen shopping here. And I am very, very glad we no longer live there.
I think I just realized what I couldn't put my finger on before. That town is dirty. Everyone out for themselves and no one really wants to help you out. Not a friendly place at all.
I am reminded of reasons 1, 000 and 1,154 that we moved. Then yesterday reason number 15 was seen shopping here. And I am very, very glad we no longer live there.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Take that you feathered dive bombing so and so's!
I forgot to share! I made this mobile to hang outside in front of the sprinkler head to scare our little nest makers away. They were trying to make another nest, little buggers!
I used six lb fishing line, square dowels, a dremel tool to grind holes in the shells and indent the dowels, jewelery wire to reinforce the gluing of the dowels and help balance the entire thing a bit, puffy glitter stickers and a bag of shells from Wally's World.
The birds immediately acknowledged my superior crafting abilities to their paltry nest making abilities. After much dive bombing trying to figure out if they could get around it or not, they gave up and went somewhere else. Booyah to the human!
The birds immediately acknowledged my superior crafting abilities to their paltry nest making abilities. After much dive bombing trying to figure out if they could get around it or not, they gave up and went somewhere else. Booyah to the human!
Shivering in this weather?
The reason: Job interview
The setting: Small office. Awkwardly arranged office furniture. One toddler sized chair, one adult sized chair and a desk at an angle to the door.
The weather: Like everywhere, hot. Maybe not like everywhere, humid.
I just happened to pull the adult sized chair to the one spot where the ceiling vent a/c hit me full in the face. Oh, how lovely it is to try not to chatter ones teeth during an interview. I had to ask them to turn it up. I have never been that cold inside during the summer before. It ended up being a quickie interview, a total of fifteen minutes. Which means 2/3 of the way through it the vent finally stopped and I started to warm up. I was wearing long sleeves, for crying out loud! I still shiver when I think about how cold that was. If that's good or bad, considering the weather right now, I'll leave up to time to tell.
EDIT: Oh, big freaking surprise! I didn't get that one. I got a letter that basically said "Ah, hell no!" They didn't even say they hired someone else. They said "We decided to continue recruitment for this position." *tres sigh*
The setting: Small office. Awkwardly arranged office furniture. One toddler sized chair, one adult sized chair and a desk at an angle to the door.
The weather: Like everywhere, hot. Maybe not like everywhere, humid.
I just happened to pull the adult sized chair to the one spot where the ceiling vent a/c hit me full in the face. Oh, how lovely it is to try not to chatter ones teeth during an interview. I had to ask them to turn it up. I have never been that cold inside during the summer before. It ended up being a quickie interview, a total of fifteen minutes. Which means 2/3 of the way through it the vent finally stopped and I started to warm up. I was wearing long sleeves, for crying out loud! I still shiver when I think about how cold that was. If that's good or bad, considering the weather right now, I'll leave up to time to tell.
EDIT: Oh, big freaking surprise! I didn't get that one. I got a letter that basically said "Ah, hell no!" They didn't even say they hired someone else. They said "We decided to continue recruitment for this position." *tres sigh*
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Another generation
I'm a great aunt for the third time. :) Beautiful baby girl.
The other two great's are boys from my husbands side of the family.
All three are lookers, whoo! heh.
The other two great's are boys from my husbands side of the family.
All three are lookers, whoo! heh.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
It's A GIRL!
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| SNOOPY! |
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| Close up of Binding |
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| Burping Cloth or Puke Rags as my hubby calls them. First one is just one piece. Second one reversible. |
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| Receiving Blankets |
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| Close up of overcast stitching. |
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| Finished basket. |
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Singing in the ...quilt?
I'm not all about the kids. They are more interesting than me but that could just be a mom's natural opinion.
My sister is about to become a grandma for the first time. She has two kids and the oldest doesn't look like she's going to have kids, ever.
I've been making receiving blankets and a shoulder burp thing for the niece. I tried to do binding on a quilt but it's not going well. I've never done binding before. I was pretty proud of my first try at it until I saw the other side of the blanket. It went along a nice line and suddenly started veering north, if you know what I mean. Now I understand what the "no cuss" method I found on You Tube was really talking about.
I took out my seam ripper and started ripping that out. Now the binding sets waiting, about 1/4 done. My hands are singing from the delicate work. I used to work at an embroidery shop. A little place, me being the only constant employee besides the owner. It was the first job I had since being a stay at home mom for 13 years, that's another post. My hands got some mean ass numb from doing that job. Sometimes it's worse, sometimes it's better. Sewing always bring out the worse.
Edit: Finishing came down to a time crunch. I took the first method and threw it out. I ironed and pinned the second binding and sewed like the wind. Worked the first time! Yeah! I didn't know the sex of the baby when I made these so I tried to be as gender neutral as possible. The cloth was given to me from my mom in law, much appreciated. I don't think I would have got done on time other wise. Daily waiting on this kid, heh.
My sister is about to become a grandma for the first time. She has two kids and the oldest doesn't look like she's going to have kids, ever.
I've been making receiving blankets and a shoulder burp thing for the niece. I tried to do binding on a quilt but it's not going well. I've never done binding before. I was pretty proud of my first try at it until I saw the other side of the blanket. It went along a nice line and suddenly started veering north, if you know what I mean. Now I understand what the "no cuss" method I found on You Tube was really talking about.
I took out my seam ripper and started ripping that out. Now the binding sets waiting, about 1/4 done. My hands are singing from the delicate work. I used to work at an embroidery shop. A little place, me being the only constant employee besides the owner. It was the first job I had since being a stay at home mom for 13 years, that's another post. My hands got some mean ass numb from doing that job. Sometimes it's worse, sometimes it's better. Sewing always bring out the worse.
Edit: Finishing came down to a time crunch. I took the first method and threw it out. I ironed and pinned the second binding and sewed like the wind. Worked the first time! Yeah! I didn't know the sex of the baby when I made these so I tried to be as gender neutral as possible. The cloth was given to me from my mom in law, much appreciated. I don't think I would have got done on time other wise. Daily waiting on this kid, heh.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
HA! Good one!
'I'm A Blond'
I found the full length movie on Netflix. I got excited and fast forwarded to the song. With my fingers slipping on the button, youngest realized it had a close resemblance to a musical. He's all boy, hates musicals. Not only that, he is at the over dramatic stage of life. He had to plug his ears dramatically, faint every few seconds and gag during any singing that I happened to stop on.
I sing bits of this to oldest when he's doing something "blonde." Half way through the song he gives me a look that screams 'really?' This sends me into fits of laughter.
As it ends youngest is laying flat on the floor with his tongue out and off to the side. Oldest says "Oh, look, great, Youngest is now brain dead."
Worth every. single. second.
I found the full length movie on Netflix. I got excited and fast forwarded to the song. With my fingers slipping on the button, youngest realized it had a close resemblance to a musical. He's all boy, hates musicals. Not only that, he is at the over dramatic stage of life. He had to plug his ears dramatically, faint every few seconds and gag during any singing that I happened to stop on.
I sing bits of this to oldest when he's doing something "blonde." Half way through the song he gives me a look that screams 'really?' This sends me into fits of laughter.
As it ends youngest is laying flat on the floor with his tongue out and off to the side. Oldest says "Oh, look, great, Youngest is now brain dead."
Worth every. single. second.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Taste it
Youngest sits on the couch. We're watching something or other.
Me: Oh, look at this smudge on my glasses. What is that? (I think somehow my ice cream sandwich got crazy on me or someone wasn't watching where their Drumstick was going.)
Youngest with that all familiar gleam in his eye: I bet it's bird poop.
Me: Yeah? Why don't you taste it?
Youngest: No. But I'm pretty sure it's bird poop. I can smell it. *giggle*
Me: Well, if it looks like bird poop, smells like bird poo then you should taste it to make sure it tastes like bird poop. Go ahead... taaaste it.
I would like to thank Cheech and Chong for that bit. Who knew it would come in so handy?
Me: Oh, look at this smudge on my glasses. What is that? (I think somehow my ice cream sandwich got crazy on me or someone wasn't watching where their Drumstick was going.)
Youngest with that all familiar gleam in his eye: I bet it's bird poop.
Me: Yeah? Why don't you taste it?
Youngest: No. But I'm pretty sure it's bird poop. I can smell it. *giggle*
Me: Well, if it looks like bird poop, smells like bird poo then you should taste it to make sure it tastes like bird poop. Go ahead... taaaste it.
I would like to thank Cheech and Chong for that bit. Who knew it would come in so handy?
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
The time has come
I wasn't quite as worried as I thought I'd be, but the time has come.
The oldest has discovered... cruising.
And I've discovered that scaring teens can be fun.
He was late coming home last night at NINE! Oh, noes. He called and let us know that he was going to be late. He had to call again because he changed plans on how to get home on time. I was really annoyed. Because my phone was charging in the bedroom and I had to run to get it both times. He thought I was really ticked that he was late. Heh, no, because I had to run pounding across the floor which means all neighbors had to endure the noise. Ah, apt. living.
His friend driving him felt bad and walked up the dark steps with him to apologize. Aww, now that's nice. I don't think any of my friends ever gave a crap about if I was late or not. He says "I apologize. That was my fault."
I happened to have a mini flash light in my hand (stupid reason for it) so I flashed it in his face, "Yeah, what's up with that!?" I said it in mock indignation.
For just a split second, in the blue tiny light, he looked frightened. Then he laughed because he got I was joking.
Whew, I was going to feel really bad if he didn't get the joke.
The oldest has discovered... cruising.
And I've discovered that scaring teens can be fun.
He was late coming home last night at NINE! Oh, noes. He called and let us know that he was going to be late. He had to call again because he changed plans on how to get home on time. I was really annoyed. Because my phone was charging in the bedroom and I had to run to get it both times. He thought I was really ticked that he was late. Heh, no, because I had to run pounding across the floor which means all neighbors had to endure the noise. Ah, apt. living.
His friend driving him felt bad and walked up the dark steps with him to apologize. Aww, now that's nice. I don't think any of my friends ever gave a crap about if I was late or not. He says "I apologize. That was my fault."
I happened to have a mini flash light in my hand (stupid reason for it) so I flashed it in his face, "Yeah, what's up with that!?" I said it in mock indignation.
For just a split second, in the blue tiny light, he looked frightened. Then he laughed because he got I was joking.
Whew, I was going to feel really bad if he didn't get the joke.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Runza!
I made runza's yesterday. They aren't pretty. Until I get them to look "right" I prolly won't be sharing my efforts in picture, heh.
I will share the recipe.
RUNZA DOUGH
2 cups warm water
2 packages active dry yeast
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 egg
1/4 cup margarine, melted and cooled
6 1/2 cups flour
HAMBURGER FILLING
1 1/2 lbs hamburger
1/2 cup chopped onion
3 cups shredded cabbage
1/2 cup water
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Dash of Tobasco (more or less to taste)
Mix water, yeast, sugar and salt. Stir until dissolved. Add egg and melted margarine. Stir in flour. Put in refrigerator for four hours. Roll dough into an oblong shape and cut into 16 squares.
Brown hamburger and onion. Drain off excess grease. Add cabbage, seasonings and water. Simmer 15-20 minutes. Set aside and cool completely before putting on dough.
Pull four sides up and press edges together. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake 20 minutes at 350 degrees.
Can be frozen to be used at a later date.
I will share the recipe.
RUNZA DOUGH
2 cups warm water
2 packages active dry yeast
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 egg
1/4 cup margarine, melted and cooled
6 1/2 cups flour
HAMBURGER FILLING
1 1/2 lbs hamburger
1/2 cup chopped onion
3 cups shredded cabbage
1/2 cup water
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Dash of Tobasco (more or less to taste)
Mix water, yeast, sugar and salt. Stir until dissolved. Add egg and melted margarine. Stir in flour. Put in refrigerator for four hours. Roll dough into an oblong shape and cut into 16 squares.
Brown hamburger and onion. Drain off excess grease. Add cabbage, seasonings and water. Simmer 15-20 minutes. Set aside and cool completely before putting on dough.
Pull four sides up and press edges together. Place on greased cookie sheet and bake 20 minutes at 350 degrees.
Can be frozen to be used at a later date.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Trepidations
I've been experiencing dreams I don't like, nightmares of windshields and screeching tires or seat belts that don't work. Brought on by drivers education classes for my oldest. He is of age to get a license so when he finishes and gets a waiver he can very well have his license next week.
Friends who were in car accidents are too numerous for the law of averages. The theory I hold on to is that the town was on too accurate of an east west grid. Sunset and sunrise were blinding times to be on the road. Add on small town life livened up by a party school Jr. College and we're talking trouble.
I knew a host of teenagers killed too soon or injured due to accidents. It creeps me out a bit.
-My brother's friend who had to have his jaw wired shut at 17 due to a roll over.
-A couple of friends going over the hood of a driver who didn't even see them on their motorcycle. They hit the curb on the other side. One was in a coma and passed away the next year, the other recovered.
-The brother of a friend crushed in his car as he did a head on with a pick up. He was driving too fast after a party in the country. The fragility of the car plus the speed left no chance.
-Another friends sister in a head on with a drunk driver before I even knew of her existence. An odd revealing moment when I found out there used to be three children instead of two.
-A young co-worker driving home in the morning, a man had a heart attack, met his car head on just as he was clearing construction and killed him.
-A 15 year old cousin in a car driven by someone else who rolled the car in a ditch on a country road.
I think of my own stupidity, leaning down to grab a cassette off the floor, watching the dirt fly up behind me as I try to get back on the road.
The bad boyfriend who buried the speedometer because he was being pissy with everyone. The car was old and floated at the front. The only time it slowed down was when we went up a slight rise.
Sitting in the back seat of the hot red car with the t-tops off going 125 because they wanted pancakes NOW.
Getting stuck because the girl wanted to test out her new four wheel drive. She went right into a shallow ditch and stopped just short of the hill behind it. We got out, luckily.
Getting mud in a friend's mothers SUV because we went too far out on an inlet at the lake. The only way to get out was to back up. It had been raining all week, he couldn't see out and had to unroll the windows. It was such a tight squeeze he asked everyone but one other passenger to get out because he was uncertain if he was going to slide off into the lake. The other passenger watched the other side to tell him if he got too close.
Letting my fifteen year old friend drive in the country. We fish tailed around a corner and headed for the deep ditch before she found the brakes. I took the wheel position back.
Trying to do a 'Y' turn on a mountain outlook almost getting hit by a car going the other way. It saw us just in time as it came around the corner.
I know teenagers do stupid things. It's part of being a teenager. My husband tells me about the stupid things he and his friends did and I review the stupid things I did. And that makes me worried.
I think about the moment of inattention my oldest had while driving a go cart when he was four. He ran right into a wall. Even with the seat belt and padded steering wheel, his appliance replacing his front teeth made his gums bleed. I find more reason to worry.
I take comfort in the fact that he's a good kid. He's a smart kid. He'll know the rules of the road.
But I'm still going to worry.
Friends who were in car accidents are too numerous for the law of averages. The theory I hold on to is that the town was on too accurate of an east west grid. Sunset and sunrise were blinding times to be on the road. Add on small town life livened up by a party school Jr. College and we're talking trouble.
I knew a host of teenagers killed too soon or injured due to accidents. It creeps me out a bit.
-My brother's friend who had to have his jaw wired shut at 17 due to a roll over.
-A couple of friends going over the hood of a driver who didn't even see them on their motorcycle. They hit the curb on the other side. One was in a coma and passed away the next year, the other recovered.
-The brother of a friend crushed in his car as he did a head on with a pick up. He was driving too fast after a party in the country. The fragility of the car plus the speed left no chance.
-Another friends sister in a head on with a drunk driver before I even knew of her existence. An odd revealing moment when I found out there used to be three children instead of two.
-A young co-worker driving home in the morning, a man had a heart attack, met his car head on just as he was clearing construction and killed him.
-A 15 year old cousin in a car driven by someone else who rolled the car in a ditch on a country road.
I think of my own stupidity, leaning down to grab a cassette off the floor, watching the dirt fly up behind me as I try to get back on the road.
The bad boyfriend who buried the speedometer because he was being pissy with everyone. The car was old and floated at the front. The only time it slowed down was when we went up a slight rise.
Sitting in the back seat of the hot red car with the t-tops off going 125 because they wanted pancakes NOW.
Getting stuck because the girl wanted to test out her new four wheel drive. She went right into a shallow ditch and stopped just short of the hill behind it. We got out, luckily.
Getting mud in a friend's mothers SUV because we went too far out on an inlet at the lake. The only way to get out was to back up. It had been raining all week, he couldn't see out and had to unroll the windows. It was such a tight squeeze he asked everyone but one other passenger to get out because he was uncertain if he was going to slide off into the lake. The other passenger watched the other side to tell him if he got too close.
Letting my fifteen year old friend drive in the country. We fish tailed around a corner and headed for the deep ditch before she found the brakes. I took the wheel position back.
Trying to do a 'Y' turn on a mountain outlook almost getting hit by a car going the other way. It saw us just in time as it came around the corner.
I know teenagers do stupid things. It's part of being a teenager. My husband tells me about the stupid things he and his friends did and I review the stupid things I did. And that makes me worried.
I think about the moment of inattention my oldest had while driving a go cart when he was four. He ran right into a wall. Even with the seat belt and padded steering wheel, his appliance replacing his front teeth made his gums bleed. I find more reason to worry.
I take comfort in the fact that he's a good kid. He's a smart kid. He'll know the rules of the road.
But I'm still going to worry.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
New Type of Camera?
Not often I find something before everyone else out there. A new camera that let's you focus AFTER you take the picture. Hope it's for real and not a load. I've been frustrated by my lack of skill with my camera and the slowness it can take to snap pictures. And trying to focus on what I want to has been a bit of a problem. I certainly have enough pictures not worthy of showing.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Treasure in the Darkness
Tornadoes. We got 'em.
Lightening, thunder, we got 'em.
Unbelievable sun set. Oh, yeah. Got that too.
Lightening, thunder, we got 'em.
Unbelievable sun set. Oh, yeah. Got that too.
The camera couldn't capture that sunset quite like I'd like it to. There was a violet purple in the sky that no matter how I fiddle or how I took the picture, it just wouldn't capture. And I never caught the lightening in those dark clouds. Always went off just before or just after I snapped, no matter how many times I hit the button, heh. I know I could probably put some fake lightening in the clouds but to me it's just not the same as capturing the moment that bolt skipped across the clouds.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Another One Bites the Dust
Drat! Didn't get that job.
Back to the salt mines of looking. But first, I'm going to step outside that zone again and go swimming at the BIG pool. Weee haw!
Back to the salt mines of looking. But first, I'm going to step outside that zone again and go swimming at the BIG pool. Weee haw!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Quips from Kids
"Oh, no," I said over my shoulder to my teen. "My video has been blocked in some countries." First time that ever happened. I was a little surprised. It's because of the music I picked.
"Oh, no!" he replied. "Someone in Backwateristan won't be able to see your video."
Ha!
"Oh, no!" he replied. "Someone in Backwateristan won't be able to see your video."
Ha!
Friday, June 10, 2011
Comfort Zones
One reason I enjoyed moving from such a small town to a much larger one is I can take myself out of my life. Now, I know it's hard to believe, but I sometimes get sick of myself. I take this as a sign that I need to go do something new. See a new horizon, new neighborhood or heck, even a new grocery store. I need to explore.
In a town of under 6000 people it was hard to find something new to explore after ten years. Two grocery stores, maybe five restaurants, hard to keep track because they kept closing due to retirements, two parks designated North and South. It was hard to find something around town that would take me out of myself for a bit. I wanted hills too. There were no hills. I could see one end of town from the other. Total dullness.
We moved. 24,000 more people. A newer part of town, an older part of town and some hills to hike. Parks with biking and walking trails, interesting horizons, more restaurants than I can remember and stores to explore. Even the library got an update and is something to explore. When I get sick of the same old, same old I can step out of the dull and find something different.
We went to a new to us Chinese restaurant looking for a good Crab Rangoon. We had never been there before, didn't know what they offered or what the best time to go there would be. We were the only two in there. The employees seemed like they were annoyed at us or with each other, still haven't figured which way. I can't tell you what they were saying because they weren't speaking English. Their body language was tired, hurried and nary a smile crossed an employee's face. Hell, for all I know they were annoyed at something minor that had nothing to do with business. I wondered if a plate was about to fly across the kitchen. The atmosphere began to make us distinctly uncomfortable. We had found a step outside our comfort zone which in it's own way was thrilling. Almost an uncomfortable thrill. I had stepped outside my zone for awhile. I didn't think I'd need to do that for awhile yet.
On the upside, I can recommend their Crab Rangoon.
In a town of under 6000 people it was hard to find something new to explore after ten years. Two grocery stores, maybe five restaurants, hard to keep track because they kept closing due to retirements, two parks designated North and South. It was hard to find something around town that would take me out of myself for a bit. I wanted hills too. There were no hills. I could see one end of town from the other. Total dullness.
We moved. 24,000 more people. A newer part of town, an older part of town and some hills to hike. Parks with biking and walking trails, interesting horizons, more restaurants than I can remember and stores to explore. Even the library got an update and is something to explore. When I get sick of the same old, same old I can step out of the dull and find something different.
We went to a new to us Chinese restaurant looking for a good Crab Rangoon. We had never been there before, didn't know what they offered or what the best time to go there would be. We were the only two in there. The employees seemed like they were annoyed at us or with each other, still haven't figured which way. I can't tell you what they were saying because they weren't speaking English. Their body language was tired, hurried and nary a smile crossed an employee's face. Hell, for all I know they were annoyed at something minor that had nothing to do with business. I wondered if a plate was about to fly across the kitchen. The atmosphere began to make us distinctly uncomfortable. We had found a step outside our comfort zone which in it's own way was thrilling. Almost an uncomfortable thrill. I had stepped outside my zone for awhile. I didn't think I'd need to do that for awhile yet.
On the upside, I can recommend their Crab Rangoon.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Whoo hoo!
Hey! I got a job interview!
That was so nice. Made me feel good just to be considered. I'll go over the moon if I actually get it.
That was so nice. Made me feel good just to be considered. I'll go over the moon if I actually get it.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Little Birds, Big Problem
I first saw these little ones hovering at the balcony in a strong wind. Aww, how cute! They were looking for a place to settle in the wind. Only I can delete every single source of that first video I took.
I went back and got more. Then I realized WHY they were there.
They weren't weary travelers looking for a resting spot before moving on. They were dangerous little feathery squatters! Besides driving the cat nutso, they could cause some real problems with the sprinkler system. Well, the video says it all.
Friday, June 3, 2011
NIrvana, eventually
My very brilliant neighbors decided to have sex at two thirty last night. I wouldn't mind so much if there was any rhythm to the bed trying to bore it's way through the wall. I finally had to go to the living room to sleep. Where the cat, who has been banished out of our room for a bit, decided she was overly happy someone joined her. Commence purring and cuddling. I finally feel asleep about three thirty.
And woke about six thirty. I swear, it is a plot to keep me up. I felt obligated to buy me some quality donuts since it's Doughnut day. Took a shower, that will wake me, went downtown and got some yummy pastry. Came home, had a treat, watched some TV. My phone went off. A text from Hubby about what kind of doughnuts he wanted. Then youngest woke up. I texted back, greeted youngest and watched a little more TV NOT sleeping. Around ten I was just on the verge of getting settled down when there was knocking at the door. One of the oldest's friends needed a place to roost for a bit. I let him borrow my phone to call his mom and explain what was going on. The local pool wasn't open when he thought it should so he had to come back home.
While the friend thanked me profusely and I let him know it's no biggie, the oldest got ready for the day. The friend said there were some kids at the pool here at the complex which surprised me. I didn't think it would open for another hour. Kids there meant there was probably an adult on sight already. As long as there is a responsible adult around anyone's kids can swim. Oldest, friend and youngest decided to go swimming here at the complex. I helped youngest get his tan lotion on and out the door. NAP time! I figure I could get a few winks in while they are away.
Five minutes later they are back. The kids that were there did not have an adult. They all got kicked out. I grabbed a bargain book, my phone and keys. I know when I'm whooped. I'm not getting extra sleep. "I'll be your designated adult."
We were there for about an hour and a half before I found an excuse to leave. They were spraying around the grounds for something. I don't get along well with chemical death whether for bugs or weeds. I needed the excuse. My eyes weren't focusing well when I went from reading my book to looking at the pool. Oldest is 16, as is his friend. I made him go ask if it was OK for him to stay because the rules say it should be. The lady who kicked them out the first time didn't realize they were that old. Baby faces, both of 'em.
I marched on home with the youngest. Hubby's car was here. Must be his lunch time. Still no sleep for me, at least for another thirty minutes or so. I come upstairs and discuss the day. I've been talking to him for about five minutes before I realize he's not in his work clothes.
Me: You home for the day?
Hubby: Yeah, I decided that I just didn't need to work there anymore. Their attitude didn't agree with me.
They recently had a manager quit and he has been working six days in a row. Sleep deprivation means I'm not fast on the uptake today.
I stare at him for a few seconds.
Me: Are you kidding?
Hubby: Yeah. I got my forty in already. They have enough people so I could come home for the day.
Oh, sweet nirvana! That means I can sleep the rest of the day. I can get myself a few more hours.
I've never been so glad someone quit before.
And woke about six thirty. I swear, it is a plot to keep me up. I felt obligated to buy me some quality donuts since it's Doughnut day. Took a shower, that will wake me, went downtown and got some yummy pastry. Came home, had a treat, watched some TV. My phone went off. A text from Hubby about what kind of doughnuts he wanted. Then youngest woke up. I texted back, greeted youngest and watched a little more TV NOT sleeping. Around ten I was just on the verge of getting settled down when there was knocking at the door. One of the oldest's friends needed a place to roost for a bit. I let him borrow my phone to call his mom and explain what was going on. The local pool wasn't open when he thought it should so he had to come back home.
While the friend thanked me profusely and I let him know it's no biggie, the oldest got ready for the day. The friend said there were some kids at the pool here at the complex which surprised me. I didn't think it would open for another hour. Kids there meant there was probably an adult on sight already. As long as there is a responsible adult around anyone's kids can swim. Oldest, friend and youngest decided to go swimming here at the complex. I helped youngest get his tan lotion on and out the door. NAP time! I figure I could get a few winks in while they are away.
Five minutes later they are back. The kids that were there did not have an adult. They all got kicked out. I grabbed a bargain book, my phone and keys. I know when I'm whooped. I'm not getting extra sleep. "I'll be your designated adult."
We were there for about an hour and a half before I found an excuse to leave. They were spraying around the grounds for something. I don't get along well with chemical death whether for bugs or weeds. I needed the excuse. My eyes weren't focusing well when I went from reading my book to looking at the pool. Oldest is 16, as is his friend. I made him go ask if it was OK for him to stay because the rules say it should be. The lady who kicked them out the first time didn't realize they were that old. Baby faces, both of 'em.
I marched on home with the youngest. Hubby's car was here. Must be his lunch time. Still no sleep for me, at least for another thirty minutes or so. I come upstairs and discuss the day. I've been talking to him for about five minutes before I realize he's not in his work clothes.
Me: You home for the day?
Hubby: Yeah, I decided that I just didn't need to work there anymore. Their attitude didn't agree with me.
They recently had a manager quit and he has been working six days in a row. Sleep deprivation means I'm not fast on the uptake today.
I stare at him for a few seconds.
Me: Are you kidding?
Hubby: Yeah. I got my forty in already. They have enough people so I could come home for the day.
Oh, sweet nirvana! That means I can sleep the rest of the day. I can get myself a few more hours.
I've never been so glad someone quit before.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Ultimate Touche
Conversation of boys contemplating what kind of candy to get at the store:
Oldest: Oh, why do you have to get the same flavor as mine?
Me: He can get whatever kind he wants, it doesn't matter.
I'm the youngest so I've seen this conversation before. Both candies go through the line at the same time and the cashier hands them to me. I hand them to the kids.
Oldest, knowing he's being a smart ass: This one isn't mine.
I don't know where it came from, I blurted out: Yes it is. I know it is because I spit on yours.
Oldest: Touche, mom. Touche.
Oldest: Oh, why do you have to get the same flavor as mine?
Me: He can get whatever kind he wants, it doesn't matter.
I'm the youngest so I've seen this conversation before. Both candies go through the line at the same time and the cashier hands them to me. I hand them to the kids.
Oldest, knowing he's being a smart ass: This one isn't mine.
I don't know where it came from, I blurted out: Yes it is. I know it is because I spit on yours.
Oldest: Touche, mom. Touche.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Happy Holiday!
Oo, look, I'm still unemployed! *sigh*
Oo, look, when I asked the children to sign their names and give in and out times for computer use on someone else' computer, they acted like I asked them to dive into a pit of fire. *sigh*
Oo, look, it's not just the bedroom where the cat has decided to pee on things. If the husband leaves his socks on the floor in the living room, she'll pee on them there too. I wish I could say it was a grand devised plan to get him to pick up his freaking clothes, but alas, I am not that sly. I wouldn't know how to cue her to pee on the things. If I tried to get her to do that, she'd probably end up peeing on an antique blanket or something horrifyingly unwashable. *sigh*
Oo, look, the swimming pool opened! And as usual the beginning of the summer has crappy cold rainy weather. I really don't remember the last time the end of May or beginning of June was actually hot and sunny. I got the new swim suit, I have the sun protection, I'm so ready! Come on mother nature! Get off the PMS already! *sigh*
X_x <------ I passed out from all the sighing. *si...er.... nm.
I'm taking my caffeine and watching what I can of this Monk. Have a great Holiday!
Oo, look, when I asked the children to sign their names and give in and out times for computer use on someone else' computer, they acted like I asked them to dive into a pit of fire. *sigh*
Oo, look, it's not just the bedroom where the cat has decided to pee on things. If the husband leaves his socks on the floor in the living room, she'll pee on them there too. I wish I could say it was a grand devised plan to get him to pick up his freaking clothes, but alas, I am not that sly. I wouldn't know how to cue her to pee on the things. If I tried to get her to do that, she'd probably end up peeing on an antique blanket or something horrifyingly unwashable. *sigh*
Oo, look, the swimming pool opened! And as usual the beginning of the summer has crappy cold rainy weather. I really don't remember the last time the end of May or beginning of June was actually hot and sunny. I got the new swim suit, I have the sun protection, I'm so ready! Come on mother nature! Get off the PMS already! *sigh*
X_x <------ I passed out from all the sighing. *si...er.... nm.
I'm taking my caffeine and watching what I can of this Monk. Have a great Holiday!
Friday, April 15, 2011
I suck at titles
To put it nicely, things are in the crapper. Hope it starts to improve soon.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Job Pitch or Sales Pitch?
I'll be honest, I kind of suspected that it wasn't going to be a real job interview. I kind of suspected that it would be some sort of sales pitch, a thinly disguised attempt at seperating me from my money.
I got more suspicious as I looked at his card. VP of whatever. District? Office? I don't know. It got worse when he said "...been in here only a few months." That's why a guy with VP on his card is sharing an office with another guy and some file cabinets? No reception and way too hot, hrm...?
"Have you heard of us before?" Yeah, I think I had. But they don't advertise, so where did I hear of them? He went on, explained how they used to be part of a bigger company that was right in the middle of the collapse of the financial world. Oh, so, how does your company work now? That surprised him a bit. He didn't think I'd be aware of any of that.
He used terms I was unfamiliar with and I asked him what the difference was. Well, if I go to the seminars I would learn. Lord.
Towards the end, what really got me, was he said "Your sister and her husband...." Back up the thought train, who said I had a sister? Who said she was married if I had one anyway? I had decided on a poker face by this time anyway, so let him go on. Caught my finger tapping impatiently, had to stop that.
The pitch killer, $99 for the start and $25 every month after. Yeah, er... no thanks.
I got more suspicious as I looked at his card. VP of whatever. District? Office? I don't know. It got worse when he said "...been in here only a few months." That's why a guy with VP on his card is sharing an office with another guy and some file cabinets? No reception and way too hot, hrm...?
"Have you heard of us before?" Yeah, I think I had. But they don't advertise, so where did I hear of them? He went on, explained how they used to be part of a bigger company that was right in the middle of the collapse of the financial world. Oh, so, how does your company work now? That surprised him a bit. He didn't think I'd be aware of any of that.
He used terms I was unfamiliar with and I asked him what the difference was. Well, if I go to the seminars I would learn. Lord.
Towards the end, what really got me, was he said "Your sister and her husband...." Back up the thought train, who said I had a sister? Who said she was married if I had one anyway? I had decided on a poker face by this time anyway, so let him go on. Caught my finger tapping impatiently, had to stop that.
The pitch killer, $99 for the start and $25 every month after. Yeah, er... no thanks.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Guess What Day It Is?
Today, it was snowing. Big deal, right? It's snowing everywhere.
Today, the wind was blowing. We had wind chill warnings.
Today I forgot to wear snow boots, hat and gloves. I was in a car, I'd be OK.
Today, the car wouldn't respond to the accelerator. I was parked on the side of the road after dropping off.
So today, with one child safely at school and the other child still waiting to go, I was stuck.
Today my husband was not sleeping where his phone was charging.
Today I had to call a taxi. Then a relative. It became a race to which one would show up first.
Today my phone didn't respond well to the temperatures. It decided that despite charging all night, it's battery was going to go dead.
The taxi showed up first. It was slow and creaky and just a little touch scary.
I had it drop me off first at the entrance of the complex, gave the oldest all the cash I had and hoped it was enough.
Today I walked in negative below wind chill, pelted by snow without hats, gloves and snow boots.
Today I had to wake up the husband early and go out again.
Today he was thirty minutes late for work.
Today I had to drive the other vehicle that has brakes in need of maintenance.
What does it all mean?
Today must be Monday. Saturday, January 29, 2011
It's a good day when...
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Friday, January 14, 2011
Nature's Other Gold
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