::::::::::::::::::PAT O’BRIEN UPDATE::::::::::::::::::
9 hours and counting! I even made myself up today so I’m all purdy and stuff I can’t wait to see him!
::::::::::::::::::TIME::::::::::::::::::
Is it really November 30? Sheesh – that is just nutz! It’s like I keep blinking and MONTHS pass without me even being aware of it! Crazy I tell you CRAZY! This also means that we’re just about four months away from the Getting Hitched Day! I probably would be happier about it if we had a few more things lined up, but we have to wait until after the New Year to get a few things scheduled. That’s the bad thing about a wedding of 20 people, no one wants to schedule you cuz you’re not spending oooooodles of caish.
::::::::::::::::::WORK::::::::::::::::::
Yesterday was the Dirección de Clientes Especializados annual meeting – which went from 10AM until 7:45PM. I was soooo not happy. In general I was being a big pissy pants because I haven’t slept well, and then on top of that I just in general am not happy about having to work later than I have to, and BEING FORCED to go to dinner. Turned out to be a great time – we left at about 8PM for dinner and got back to the hotel at around 12:30PM. Then I drove home from there.
Dinner was for about 45 people at this old Hacienda just outside of Toluca towards Mexico. It was GORGEOUS I tell you! It’s hard for me to think that an entire family lived there – and that’s it! I guess it was extended family too, but sheesh, the pace was huge! Giant cathedral ceilings – fabulous wood steps and crazy decorative wood EVERYWHERE. Just breathtaking. And the food was very good. We had a carrot cake for desert that I would almost kill for again – it was quite possibly the best carrot cake I’ve ever had in my life!
It was also cool because it will probably be the last time I see a lot of those people before I leave. It was fun just chatting, and actually being able to participate (read: Dominate) a conversation. I think I dreaded those events because I would have to sit there quiet because I couldn’t follow or understand and wasn’t able to communicate. But now, I am! Which feels great! Also cool was telling everyone I was getting hitched – they were so happy for me, it was exciting – lots of toasts and advice and people trying to persuade me to have the wedding here at the CTC :D hahaha – just all around hilariousness.
::::::::::::::::::TRANSFER OF POWER::::::::::::::::::
Tomorrow we have the day off because it is the Presidential Inauguration – Felipe Calderon will officially take office and take the power from Vicente Fox. I hope the transfer of power goes smoothly and no one does anything retarded. For the most part I think people enjoy the long weekend and get out of Dodge…I’m just hoping that everything is calm so I can get to and from the airport OK. I would just have Pat take El Caminante (the bus service) but I don’t think I can stand to wait an extra two to three hours until I see him. It would just drive me crazy!!!
::::::::::::::::::CHRISTMAS FAVORITES::::::::::::::::::
Since I’m on a Christmas Music kick, I thought I’d list some of my all time favorite Albums……here there are in no particular order:
Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers: Once Upon A Christmas – Quite possibly one of my favorite Christmas albums ever! Every song just makes me want to cuddle up by the fire in a cabin in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and sip hot cocoa with a candy cane in it. I remember thinking as a kid that I thought they should be married because they were just too cute and sang so well together. I don’t think they ever were though. I think this also has lots of fuzzy warm memories attached to it because my mom always would play the LP at Christmas time, for as long as I can remember!
Bing Crosby: White Christmas – just an all around classic. The guy’s voice is amazing and tranquil and just full of tradition and spirit. Who else can get away with demanding Christmas as needing to be White, and also spending Christmas in Hawaii (Me’le Kalikimaka) on the same album? And I think his rendition of Jingle Bells (with the Andrews Sisters?) is top notch – one of my all time faves!
Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas – I LOVE THIS ALBUM! I think it was the first Christmas CD I bought myself. In general I think Mariah is awesome (albeit maybe a bit nutzo) and has an amazing set of pipes, and I love the style of these songs – kinda gospely, kinda ballady – but all over amazing. I remember one particular Christmas Tree Hunting trip where on the way home we were listening to the CD, and during one song we tried to count how many times “Jesus” was said (The song is Jesus Oh What A Wonderful Child – very Gospel Revival-y). I think we made it to 200 and gave up….but it was kind of fun! Also attached to this album – memories of missing my long distance boyfriends deployed overseas or stationed across the country while bawling my eyeballs out to the song Miss you Most (At Christmas Time). Also probably my favorite O Holy Night rendition ever (*NSYNC’s acapella version is a close second. Don’t laugh – it’s pretty awesome!).
The Jackson 5: Christmas Album – this is another one of those albums my mom used to play. Love it! This contains favorites with a soulful twist, and Michael Jackson when he was cute, little and still black. It’s nearly impossible to be still while listening to this – and I can honestly say the only Christmas album where I’ve felt the urge to “break it down” – especially in the car. I’m pretty sure all the Mexican’s think I’m crazy!
Vince Guaraldi Trio: A Charlie Brown Christmas – not all the songs on this album are even classic Christmas songs, but I’ve watched the TV show practically every year I’ve been alive and its just one of those collections that are synonymous with the holiday season. And it’s fun and cheery – how can you not like it!?!
OK, I think I’ve killed enough time – still 8.5 hours left to go. I hope everyone has a great day, and I’ll post again on Monday!
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
And that's the way it is
::::::::PAT O'BRIEN COUNTDOWN::::::::
Only two more sleeps until Pat O'Brien gets here! I don't think we'll be doing anything special. Toluca is in the semifinals on Sunday, so if we can get tickets, I think we'll go to that - because when in Rome, do as the Romans - and I'd like him to experience the thrill of Mexican Futból.....but other than that, no plans at all. I think we were so burned out by our trip in July where we crammed 2,000 into three days, that we're making up for it by not doing anything, which is totally cool with me. Besides, the December trip will be another non-relaxing one, with lots of holiday parties and visits and such. Don't get me wrong, I love being with family, its just that its draining, know what I mean????
::::::::WORK::::::::
I have so much work to do – really all i want to do is curl up under my desk and sleep. But, I shant, so I am just mustering up the will to attack it all. I’ve got a plan, and I know I will achieve it, it just may take me a few more cups of coffee.
::::::::COFFEE::::::::
Speaking of coffee – I don’t really like to drink it, and I don’t consider myself a coffee drinker. Really, it tastes OK, but I don’t like the way it makes my pee smell. TMI, I know, but everyone knows it does that. I just want to know how the Joe Heads can live with themselves smelling that every time they go to the bathroom for their entire lives.
Anyway, as I said, I don’t drink much coffee, but I have this week and last for some reason, and now I think I’m addicted. Its not really coffee, but sugar infused mocha cappuccino – gas station style. We’ve got a machine here in the office. I’m glad I dind’t find it before…….because then I might be a Joe Head. It doesn’t help that I am sooooooo stinking tired and need the pick me up, but coffee has got to be safer for your body than red bull, right? I plan on kicking the habit…..as soon as I start getting more sleep!
::::::::CHRISTMAS MUSIC::::::::
Ahhhh – I love Christmas music! And I got news yesterday that Troy burned me a DVD with all my music (including my 500+ song Christmas collection) and sent it to Pat O’Brien! WHooo HOO! That means I’ll have more holiday favorites to enjoy on Thursday! Playing right now….”Holy Shit its Christmas” by Red Peters. It’s a good song, you should check it out. It’s on shuffle right now, so if I’m lucky I’ll get one of the Jackson 5 songs next.
::::::::AND NOW, YOUR MOMENT OF ZEN::::::::
I will leave you with this…..it was posted on Yahoo as TV LAND LISTS “CATCHPHRASES” I’d have to say, I can appreciate them all, but the one that gave me chills when I read it was "Do you believe in miracles?" (Al Michaels, 1980 Winter Olympics). Just made me all tingley incide. It makes me laugh how that phrase can be on the same list as “I’m Rick James, Bitch!”. So, whats your favorite??
In alphabetical order, TV Land's list:
_"Aaay" (Fonzie, "Happy Days")
_"And that's the way it is" (Walter Cronkite, "CBS Evening News")
_"Ask not what your country can do for you ..." (John F. Kennedy)
_"Baby, you're the greatest" (Jackie Gleason as Ralph Kramden, "The Honeymooners")
_"Bam!" (Emeril Lagasse, "Emeril Live")
_"Book 'em, Danno" (Steve McGarrett, "Hawaii Five-O")
_"Come on down!" (Johnny Olson, "The Price is Right")
_"Danger, Will Robinson" (Robot, "Lost in Space")
_"De plane! De plane!" (Tattoo, "Fantasy Island")
_"Denny Crane" (Denny Crane, "Boston Legal")
_"Do you believe in miracles?" (Al Michaels, 1980 Winter Olympics)
_"D'oh!" (Homer Simpson, "The Simpsons")
_"Don't make me angry ..." (David Banner, "The Incredible Hulk")
_"Dyn-o-mite" (J.J., "Good Times")
_"Elizabeth, I'm coming!" (Fred Sanford, "Sanford and Son")
_"Gee, Mrs. Cleaver ..." (Eddie Haskell, "Leave it to Beaver")
_"God'll get you for that" (Maude, "Maude")
_"Good grief" (Charlie Brown, "Peanuts" specials)
_"Good night, and good luck" (Edward R. Murrow, "See It Now")
_"Good night, John Boy" ("The Waltons")
_"Have you no sense of decency?" (Joseph Welch to Sen. McCarthy)
_"Heh heh" (Beavis and Butt-head, "Beavis and Butthead")
_"Here it is, your moment of Zen" (Jon Stewart, "The Daily Show")
_"Here's Johnny!" (Ed McMahon, "The Tonight Show")
_"Hey now!" (Hank Kingsley, "The Larry Sanders Show")
_"Hey hey hey!" (Dwayne Nelson, "What's Happening!!")
_"Hey hey hey!" (Fat Albert, "Fat Albert")
_"Holy (whatever), Batman!" (Robin, "Batman")
_"Holy crap!" (Frank Barone, "Everybody Loves Raymond")
_"Homey don't play that!" (Homey the Clown, "In Living Color")
_"How sweet it is!" (Jackie Gleason, "The Jackie Gleason Show")
_"How you doin'?" (Joey Tribbiani, "Friends")
_"I can't believe I ate the whole thing" (Alka Seltzer ad)
_"I know nothing!" (Sgt. Schultz, "Hogan's Heroes")
_"I love it when a plan comes together" (Hannibal, "The A-Team")
_"I want my MTV!" (MTV ad)
_"I'm Larry, this is my brother Darryl ..." (Larry, "Newhart")
_"I'm not a crook ..." (Richard Nixon)
_"I'm not a doctor, but I play one on TV" (Vicks Formula 44 ad)
_"I'm Rick James, bitch!" (Dave Chappelle as Rick James, "Chappelle's Show")
_"Is that your final answer?" (Regis Philbin, "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire")
_"It keeps going and going and going ..." (Energizer Batteries ad)
_"It takes a licking ..." (Timex ad)
_"Jane, you ignorant slut" (Dan Aykroyd to Jane Curtin, "Saturday Night Live")
_"Just one more thing ..." (Columbo, "Columbo")
_"Let's be careful out there" (Sgt. Esterhaus, "Hill Street Blues")
_"Let's get ready to rumble!" (Michael Buffer, various sports events)
_"Live long and prosper" (Spock, "Star Trek")
_"Makin' whoopie" (Bob Eubanks, "The Newlywed Game")
_"Mom always liked you best" (Tommy Smothers, "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour")
_"Never assume ..." (Felix Unger, "The Odd Couple")
_"Nip it!" (Barney Fife, "The Andy Griffith Show")
_"No soup for you!" (The Soup Nazi, "Seinfeld")
_"Norm!" ("Cheers")
_"Now cut that out!" (Jack Benny, "The Jack Benny Program")
_"Oh, my God! They killed Kenny!" (Stan and Kyle, "South Park")
_"Oh, my nose!" (Marcia Brady, "The Brady Bunch")
_"One small step for man ..." (Neil Armstrong)
_"Pardon me, would you have any Grey Poupon?" (Grey Poupon ad)
_"Read my lips: No new taxes!" (George H.W. Bush)
_"Resistance is futile" (Picard as Borg, "Star Trek: The Next Generation")
_"Say good night, Gracie" (George Burns, "The Burns & Allen Show")
_"Schwing!" ( Mike Myers and Dana Carvey as Wayne and Garth, "Saturday Night Live")
_"Senator, you're no Jack Kennedy" (Lloyd Bentsen to Dan Quayle)
_"Silly rabbit, Trix are for kids" (Trix cereal ad)
_"Smile, you're on `Candid Camera'" ("Candid Camera")
_"Sock it to me" ("Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In")
_"Space, the final frontier ..." (Capt. Kirk, "Star Trek")
_"Stifle!" (Archie Bunker, "All in the Family")
_"Suit up!" (Barney Stinson, "How I Met Your Mother")
_"Tastes great! Less filling!" (Miller Lite beer ad)
_"Tell me what you don't like about yourself" (Dr. McNamara and Dr. Troy, "Nip/Tuck")
_"That's hot" (Paris Hilton, "The Simple Life")
_"The thrill of victory, the agony of defeat" (Jim McKay, "ABC's Wide World of Sports")
_"The tribe has spoken" (Jeff Probst, "Survivor")
_"The truth is out there" (Fox Mulder, "The X-Files")
_"This is the city ..." (Sgt. Joe Friday, "Dragnet")
_"Time to make the donuts" ("Dunkin' Donuts" ad)
_"Two thumbs up" (Siskel & Ebert, "Siskel & Ebert")
_"Up your nose with a rubber hose" (Vinnie Barbarino, "Welcome Back, Kotter")
_"We are two wild and crazy guys!" (Steve Martin and Dan Aykroyd as Czech playboys, "Saturday Night Live")
_"Welcome to the O.C., bitch" (Luke, "The O.C.")
_"Well, isn't that special?" (Dana Carvey as the Church Lady, "Saturday Night Live")
_"We've got a really big show!" (Ed Sullivan, "The Ed Sullivan Show")
_"Whassup?" (Budweiser ad)
_"What you see is what you get!" (Geraldine, "The Flip Wilson Show")
_"Whatchoo talkin' 'bout, Willis?" (Arnold Drummond, "Diff'rent Strokes")
_"Where's the beef?" (Wendy's ad)
_"Who loves you, baby?" (Kojak, "Kojak")
_"Would you believe?" (Maxwell Smart, "Get Smart")
_"Yabba dabba do!" (Fred Flintstone, "The Flintstones")
_"Yada, yada, yada" ("Seinfeld")
_"Yeah, that's the ticket" (Jon Lovitz as the pathological liar, "Saturday Night Live")
_"You eeeediot!" (Ren, "Ren & Stimpy")
_"You look mahvelous!" ( Billy Crystal as Fernando, "Saturday Night Live")
_"You rang?" (Lurch, "The Addams Family")
_"You're fired!" (Donald Trump, "The Apprentice")
_"You've got spunk ..." (Lou Grant, "The Mary Taylor Moore Show")
Only two more sleeps until Pat O'Brien gets here! I don't think we'll be doing anything special. Toluca is in the semifinals on Sunday, so if we can get tickets, I think we'll go to that - because when in Rome, do as the Romans - and I'd like him to experience the thrill of Mexican Futból.....but other than that, no plans at all. I think we were so burned out by our trip in July where we crammed 2,000 into three days, that we're making up for it by not doing anything, which is totally cool with me. Besides, the December trip will be another non-relaxing one, with lots of holiday parties and visits and such. Don't get me wrong, I love being with family, its just that its draining, know what I mean????
::::::::WORK::::::::
I have so much work to do – really all i want to do is curl up under my desk and sleep. But, I shant, so I am just mustering up the will to attack it all. I’ve got a plan, and I know I will achieve it, it just may take me a few more cups of coffee.
::::::::COFFEE::::::::
Speaking of coffee – I don’t really like to drink it, and I don’t consider myself a coffee drinker. Really, it tastes OK, but I don’t like the way it makes my pee smell. TMI, I know, but everyone knows it does that. I just want to know how the Joe Heads can live with themselves smelling that every time they go to the bathroom for their entire lives.
Anyway, as I said, I don’t drink much coffee, but I have this week and last for some reason, and now I think I’m addicted. Its not really coffee, but sugar infused mocha cappuccino – gas station style. We’ve got a machine here in the office. I’m glad I dind’t find it before…….because then I might be a Joe Head. It doesn’t help that I am sooooooo stinking tired and need the pick me up, but coffee has got to be safer for your body than red bull, right? I plan on kicking the habit…..as soon as I start getting more sleep!
::::::::CHRISTMAS MUSIC::::::::
Ahhhh – I love Christmas music! And I got news yesterday that Troy burned me a DVD with all my music (including my 500+ song Christmas collection) and sent it to Pat O’Brien! WHooo HOO! That means I’ll have more holiday favorites to enjoy on Thursday! Playing right now….”Holy Shit its Christmas” by Red Peters. It’s a good song, you should check it out. It’s on shuffle right now, so if I’m lucky I’ll get one of the Jackson 5 songs next.
::::::::AND NOW, YOUR MOMENT OF ZEN::::::::
I will leave you with this…..it was posted on Yahoo as TV LAND LISTS “CATCHPHRASES” I’d have to say, I can appreciate them all, but the one that gave me chills when I read it was "Do you believe in miracles?" (Al Michaels, 1980 Winter Olympics). Just made me all tingley incide. It makes me laugh how that phrase can be on the same list as “I’m Rick James, Bitch!”. So, whats your favorite??
In alphabetical order, TV Land's list:
_"Aaay" (Fonzie, "Happy Days")
_"And that's the way it is" (Walter Cronkite, "CBS Evening News")
_"Ask not what your country can do for you ..." (John F. Kennedy)
_"Baby, you're the greatest" (Jackie Gleason as Ralph Kramden, "The Honeymooners")
_"Bam!" (Emeril Lagasse, "Emeril Live")
_"Book 'em, Danno" (Steve McGarrett, "Hawaii Five-O")
_"Come on down!" (Johnny Olson, "The Price is Right")
_"Danger, Will Robinson" (Robot, "Lost in Space")
_"De plane! De plane!" (Tattoo, "Fantasy Island")
_"Denny Crane" (Denny Crane, "Boston Legal")
_"Do you believe in miracles?" (Al Michaels, 1980 Winter Olympics)
_"D'oh!" (Homer Simpson, "The Simpsons")
_"Don't make me angry ..." (David Banner, "The Incredible Hulk")
_"Dyn-o-mite" (J.J., "Good Times")
_"Elizabeth, I'm coming!" (Fred Sanford, "Sanford and Son")
_"Gee, Mrs. Cleaver ..." (Eddie Haskell, "Leave it to Beaver")
_"God'll get you for that" (Maude, "Maude")
_"Good grief" (Charlie Brown, "Peanuts" specials)
_"Good night, and good luck" (Edward R. Murrow, "See It Now")
_"Good night, John Boy" ("The Waltons")
_"Have you no sense of decency?" (Joseph Welch to Sen. McCarthy)
_"Heh heh" (Beavis and Butt-head, "Beavis and Butthead")
_"Here it is, your moment of Zen" (Jon Stewart, "The Daily Show")
_"Here's Johnny!" (Ed McMahon, "The Tonight Show")
_"Hey now!" (Hank Kingsley, "The Larry Sanders Show")
_"Hey hey hey!" (Dwayne Nelson, "What's Happening!!")
_"Hey hey hey!" (Fat Albert, "Fat Albert")
_"Holy (whatever), Batman!" (Robin, "Batman")
_"Holy crap!" (Frank Barone, "Everybody Loves Raymond")
_"Homey don't play that!" (Homey the Clown, "In Living Color")
_"How sweet it is!" (Jackie Gleason, "The Jackie Gleason Show")
_"How you doin'?" (Joey Tribbiani, "Friends")
_"I can't believe I ate the whole thing" (Alka Seltzer ad)
_"I know nothing!" (Sgt. Schultz, "Hogan's Heroes")
_"I love it when a plan comes together" (Hannibal, "The A-Team")
_"I want my MTV!" (MTV ad)
_"I'm Larry, this is my brother Darryl ..." (Larry, "Newhart")
_"I'm not a crook ..." (Richard Nixon)
_"I'm not a doctor, but I play one on TV" (Vicks Formula 44 ad)
_"I'm Rick James, bitch!" (Dave Chappelle as Rick James, "Chappelle's Show")
_"Is that your final answer?" (Regis Philbin, "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire")
_"It keeps going and going and going ..." (Energizer Batteries ad)
_"It takes a licking ..." (Timex ad)
_"Jane, you ignorant slut" (Dan Aykroyd to Jane Curtin, "Saturday Night Live")
_"Just one more thing ..." (Columbo, "Columbo")
_"Let's be careful out there" (Sgt. Esterhaus, "Hill Street Blues")
_"Let's get ready to rumble!" (Michael Buffer, various sports events)
_"Live long and prosper" (Spock, "Star Trek")
_"Makin' whoopie" (Bob Eubanks, "The Newlywed Game")
_"Mom always liked you best" (Tommy Smothers, "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour")
_"Never assume ..." (Felix Unger, "The Odd Couple")
_"Nip it!" (Barney Fife, "The Andy Griffith Show")
_"No soup for you!" (The Soup Nazi, "Seinfeld")
_"Norm!" ("Cheers")
_"Now cut that out!" (Jack Benny, "The Jack Benny Program")
_"Oh, my God! They killed Kenny!" (Stan and Kyle, "South Park")
_"Oh, my nose!" (Marcia Brady, "The Brady Bunch")
_"One small step for man ..." (Neil Armstrong)
_"Pardon me, would you have any Grey Poupon?" (Grey Poupon ad)
_"Read my lips: No new taxes!" (George H.W. Bush)
_"Resistance is futile" (Picard as Borg, "Star Trek: The Next Generation")
_"Say good night, Gracie" (George Burns, "The Burns & Allen Show")
_"Schwing!" ( Mike Myers and Dana Carvey as Wayne and Garth, "Saturday Night Live")
_"Senator, you're no Jack Kennedy" (Lloyd Bentsen to Dan Quayle)
_"Silly rabbit, Trix are for kids" (Trix cereal ad)
_"Smile, you're on `Candid Camera'" ("Candid Camera")
_"Sock it to me" ("Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In")
_"Space, the final frontier ..." (Capt. Kirk, "Star Trek")
_"Stifle!" (Archie Bunker, "All in the Family")
_"Suit up!" (Barney Stinson, "How I Met Your Mother")
_"Tastes great! Less filling!" (Miller Lite beer ad)
_"Tell me what you don't like about yourself" (Dr. McNamara and Dr. Troy, "Nip/Tuck")
_"That's hot" (Paris Hilton, "The Simple Life")
_"The thrill of victory, the agony of defeat" (Jim McKay, "ABC's Wide World of Sports")
_"The tribe has spoken" (Jeff Probst, "Survivor")
_"The truth is out there" (Fox Mulder, "The X-Files")
_"This is the city ..." (Sgt. Joe Friday, "Dragnet")
_"Time to make the donuts" ("Dunkin' Donuts" ad)
_"Two thumbs up" (Siskel & Ebert, "Siskel & Ebert")
_"Up your nose with a rubber hose" (Vinnie Barbarino, "Welcome Back, Kotter")
_"We are two wild and crazy guys!" (Steve Martin and Dan Aykroyd as Czech playboys, "Saturday Night Live")
_"Welcome to the O.C., bitch" (Luke, "The O.C.")
_"Well, isn't that special?" (Dana Carvey as the Church Lady, "Saturday Night Live")
_"We've got a really big show!" (Ed Sullivan, "The Ed Sullivan Show")
_"Whassup?" (Budweiser ad)
_"What you see is what you get!" (Geraldine, "The Flip Wilson Show")
_"Whatchoo talkin' 'bout, Willis?" (Arnold Drummond, "Diff'rent Strokes")
_"Where's the beef?" (Wendy's ad)
_"Who loves you, baby?" (Kojak, "Kojak")
_"Would you believe?" (Maxwell Smart, "Get Smart")
_"Yabba dabba do!" (Fred Flintstone, "The Flintstones")
_"Yada, yada, yada" ("Seinfeld")
_"Yeah, that's the ticket" (Jon Lovitz as the pathological liar, "Saturday Night Live")
_"You eeeediot!" (Ren, "Ren & Stimpy")
_"You look mahvelous!" ( Billy Crystal as Fernando, "Saturday Night Live")
_"You rang?" (Lurch, "The Addams Family")
_"You're fired!" (Donald Trump, "The Apprentice")
_"You've got spunk ..." (Lou Grant, "The Mary Taylor Moore Show")
Friday, November 24, 2006
OH, and I forgot...
After everyone left Keith and I were chillin before I headed up to bed, and we were watching an old Woody Woodpecker episode, circa 1964 ish. That shizzy is pretty hilarious.
Especially funny - the name of the villian - which I shall hereby use at every available opportunity.
The name?
Dirty McNasty.
Every time I say it out loud it just makes me laugh.
Especially funny - the name of the villian - which I shall hereby use at every available opportunity.
The name?
Dirty McNasty.
Every time I say it out loud it just makes me laugh.
And a good time was had by all.....
Wow – my post was rather whiney yesterday, wasn’t it? Oh well – I’m back to normal now and in a rather joyous mood. Our dinner last night was a success – everyone seemed to enjoy the food – so much so that we don’t have much for leftovers….just a bit of mashed potatoes and some turkey. Oh, and lots of pies and cakes that people brought with them. It was pretty cool to be able to celebrate an American tradition with all our Mexican friends – they seemed genuinely excited to be able to experience it as well – everyone said it was a first for them! All in all, we had 12 people over, and managed to all fit at one long table (well, two tables put together). Conversation was good, beer and wine was a’flowing – and it was just a great night. Keith did a great job cooking – the food was delish. I was just happy to be able to entertain – I had forgotten how much I enjoyed it.
Oh, and just in case your wondering, I did not score any Pillsbury biscuits or croissants, but I did find some good little bread thingys at Wal-Mart, and they were rather tasty.
So, now it officially starts the Holiday season. Last year I was rather depressed, so I didn’t even listen much to Christmas music at all, but I am already all revved up for it this year. I’ve had Christmas music on at work and in the car, and hopefully I’ll get my tree all set up tonight as well. Christmas decorating always brings up another college memory for me:
1998 - 445 S. Fifth Avenue – I can’t remember if it was the weekend after Thanksgiving, or sometime later….but Danica and I bought one of those mini-barrels of Budweiser (no, not a pony keg, but the little cute tiny barrel – or big can if you will). We threw on Santa hats (or at least I did) decorated the house, and drank the whole stinkin thing! If I recall correctly we had a pretty good buzz going on there – and the house looked fantastic. It must have been the weekend after Thanksgiving because none of our other roommates were around…..I’ll have to look through my pics, because I think I took a couple…….
Not much for weekend plans in store – decorating and cleaning because Pat O’Brien will be here Thursday (YIPPIE!!!!). We may head to Puebla tomorrow morning for a Rugby Tournament….but that is yet to be officially determined. Hope everyone out there has a fantastic weekend!
Oh, and just in case your wondering, I did not score any Pillsbury biscuits or croissants, but I did find some good little bread thingys at Wal-Mart, and they were rather tasty.
So, now it officially starts the Holiday season. Last year I was rather depressed, so I didn’t even listen much to Christmas music at all, but I am already all revved up for it this year. I’ve had Christmas music on at work and in the car, and hopefully I’ll get my tree all set up tonight as well. Christmas decorating always brings up another college memory for me:
1998 - 445 S. Fifth Avenue – I can’t remember if it was the weekend after Thanksgiving, or sometime later….but Danica and I bought one of those mini-barrels of Budweiser (no, not a pony keg, but the little cute tiny barrel – or big can if you will). We threw on Santa hats (or at least I did) decorated the house, and drank the whole stinkin thing! If I recall correctly we had a pretty good buzz going on there – and the house looked fantastic. It must have been the weekend after Thanksgiving because none of our other roommates were around…..I’ll have to look through my pics, because I think I took a couple…….
Not much for weekend plans in store – decorating and cleaning because Pat O’Brien will be here Thursday (YIPPIE!!!!). We may head to Puebla tomorrow morning for a Rugby Tournament….but that is yet to be officially determined. Hope everyone out there has a fantastic weekend!
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving Part Deaux
I’ve been feeling relatively sorry for myself all day – as happens once and a while, but particularly when there is a family celebration that I am missing, or a holiday comes around. You’d think I’d be happy for the huge meal we are going to share with our friends, but instead I’m bitching and moaning how I can’t find stinkin Pilsbury biscuits to cook for dinner – cursing Mexico and cursing the fact that I can’t celebrate the way I would like and with whom I would like. God forbid an entire country and culture not bend backwards to provide Me with the kind of American Holiday I want……
Now that I have made an attempt to really think about what makes me so angry and upset about it all, it turns out that its a pretty selfish (and ridiculous) reason. Yes, its because I miss many people and want to be surrounded by people that I love. But I think another major contributing factor is that people are still having fun and celebrating and living just fine without me. I know its irrational and really normal people wouldn't think this way.....but it feels like "Eh, we don't need you around to live life and enjoy and have a good time - you're not THAT important". I guess thats the part that really makes me crabby. I just feel so lonely and left out, even though I'm here surrounded by family and quasi-family/friends.
Anyway, when I was browsing the web, looking for articles to read while I am procrastinating, and I came across this article: TROOPS ABROAD PROUD TO SERVE ON HOLIDAY
Shame on me for being so self centered.
I can find most of the foods that make my holiday special. I have a brother here to hug and friends to laugh and share with. I can say I will eat my meal without worrying about getting shot….heck, I even get to leave work a little bit early in order to help with some of the dinner preparations. There are many troops out there who won’t get to mark this holiday with anything special, who have to work around the clock, and yet they are still Thankful for their lives, and for the freedom they are protecting.
Maybe they bitch every once and a while too, but compared to me, I think they are entitled to it. Makes me feel pretty silly for my little pity party….and has definitely shined some ever so necessary perspective into my sheltered little life.
Now that I have made an attempt to really think about what makes me so angry and upset about it all, it turns out that its a pretty selfish (and ridiculous) reason. Yes, its because I miss many people and want to be surrounded by people that I love. But I think another major contributing factor is that people are still having fun and celebrating and living just fine without me. I know its irrational and really normal people wouldn't think this way.....but it feels like "Eh, we don't need you around to live life and enjoy and have a good time - you're not THAT important". I guess thats the part that really makes me crabby. I just feel so lonely and left out, even though I'm here surrounded by family and quasi-family/friends.
Anyway, when I was browsing the web, looking for articles to read while I am procrastinating, and I came across this article: TROOPS ABROAD PROUD TO SERVE ON HOLIDAY
Shame on me for being so self centered.
I can find most of the foods that make my holiday special. I have a brother here to hug and friends to laugh and share with. I can say I will eat my meal without worrying about getting shot….heck, I even get to leave work a little bit early in order to help with some of the dinner preparations. There are many troops out there who won’t get to mark this holiday with anything special, who have to work around the clock, and yet they are still Thankful for their lives, and for the freedom they are protecting.
Maybe they bitch every once and a while too, but compared to me, I think they are entitled to it. Makes me feel pretty silly for my little pity party….and has definitely shined some ever so necessary perspective into my sheltered little life.
Feliz Día del Acción de Gracias
WOW – it feels like Thanksgiving here! Its FREEZING! And when I say freezing, I mean below 32°…..at least it was last night. YIKES! I’ve been sleeping with 5 blankets (plus my heating blankie) and the heater on most of the night, and I still wake up and its 56 degrees. ACK! No wonder why the kitties are trying to cuddle under the covers with me!
It reminds me of when I was in college, and Eunice and I were trying to be frugal after our first electric bill of the winter. Baseboard heaters with giant windows don’t allow for energy savings, let me tell ya. Anyway, we had the great idea that we wouldn’t turn on the heat until we could see our breath. I remember us inside the apartment studying with full winter gear - gloves, scarves and hats on……I don’t think that lasted too long. Once we told our parents what we were doing they graciously offered to help pay the heating bill. I think they were concerned that we might die from pneumonia. Although it was awful at the time, looking back on it now it makes me chuckle. Ahhh – the good ol’ days!
We’ve got all the goods for a nice dinner tonight – about 12 peeps or so will be coming. I was bummed because I couldn’t make my mom’s famous Strawberry Pretzel Dessert. Apparently Pretzels aren’t big sellers here, because we couldn’t find any. Weird, eh?
Well, I hope everyone has a fantastic Thanksgiving Day / weekend. It feels weird to be working on this day, but I can still be thankful, right?
I’m thankful for:
Pat O’Brien
My Family – and the family I will officially aquire in a few months
My true friends who have stuck by me through thick and thin
My new friends who are my Mexican Family
My brother who has kept me more or less sane this past year
My fluffy fuzzy warm and oh so cute kitties
Food on my table and a roof over my head
My feeble Spanish skilz
The Internet, which has kept me connected to the people I love while I’ve been so far away
With all the trials and tribulations, ups and downs, and all over general craziness I’ve faced over the past year, its not the crappy stuff I recall - but rather the love and support I’ve received – and for that, I am eternally grateful.
Hugs and Love to you all!
It reminds me of when I was in college, and Eunice and I were trying to be frugal after our first electric bill of the winter. Baseboard heaters with giant windows don’t allow for energy savings, let me tell ya. Anyway, we had the great idea that we wouldn’t turn on the heat until we could see our breath. I remember us inside the apartment studying with full winter gear - gloves, scarves and hats on……I don’t think that lasted too long. Once we told our parents what we were doing they graciously offered to help pay the heating bill. I think they were concerned that we might die from pneumonia. Although it was awful at the time, looking back on it now it makes me chuckle. Ahhh – the good ol’ days!
We’ve got all the goods for a nice dinner tonight – about 12 peeps or so will be coming. I was bummed because I couldn’t make my mom’s famous Strawberry Pretzel Dessert. Apparently Pretzels aren’t big sellers here, because we couldn’t find any. Weird, eh?
Well, I hope everyone has a fantastic Thanksgiving Day / weekend. It feels weird to be working on this day, but I can still be thankful, right?
I’m thankful for:
Pat O’Brien
My Family – and the family I will officially aquire in a few months
My true friends who have stuck by me through thick and thin
My new friends who are my Mexican Family
My brother who has kept me more or less sane this past year
My fluffy fuzzy warm and oh so cute kitties
Food on my table and a roof over my head
My feeble Spanish skilz
The Internet, which has kept me connected to the people I love while I’ve been so far away
With all the trials and tribulations, ups and downs, and all over general craziness I’ve faced over the past year, its not the crappy stuff I recall - but rather the love and support I’ve received – and for that, I am eternally grateful.
Hugs and Love to you all!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Yeah, I know.
I’ve been MIA. Just lots of things going on and not much desire to write much. You know, my typical “return to Mexico” feelings.
::::::::::::GOODBYE BO::::::::::::
A couple things, first, and belated I know, is a farewell to Bo. A cyber buddy made this layout, and I really wanted to share with everyone. You can visit her blog at http://jencaputo.typepad.com/jen_caputo/
It was a bummer losing that game on Saturday, but what can you do. We went to Caliente with a few friends to watch it – intense, but just bumming’ just the same.
::::::::::::WEEKEND FUN::::::::::::
Monday was Revolution Day here, so we didn’t have to work, which is always cool.
So Sunday we headed to Valle de Bravo to visit our friend Ofo & Juan – Ofo’s family has a fantabulous condo, smack dab next to this beautiful waterfall. I didn’t want to go at first, because I had about a million things to do, but I thought it would be a good chance for me to actually get away and relax a little bit – so we did, and I’m glad we did. It was just kinda fun to drink, cook and laugh with friends. We left early in the morning on Monday to get back so I could take care of things, but it was a relaxing day nonetheless.
::::::::::::REPATRIATION::::::::::::
The interviews I had while in the US went very well – I have been offered an informal position, but am kind of waiting on the other one so I can compare jobs and take the best overall offer. I think I’d be happy in either position, and I know that I could succeed and have potential to move up in the company, it all kind of depends on the big picture – salary, benefits, 401K, etc. Since you silly peeps in the US don’t work Thursday & Friday, I’ll have to wait until next week to get those details.
Also relayed to me was the potential of me coming back earlier than I expected. I was planning on Mid Feburary, but it looks like some people maybe wanting me back in January. That is going to increase my workload significantly, but I think I can probably swing it if I keep pretty busy at work, come in on weekends, and stay until 10:00PM each night. No problem man. Easy breezy lemon squeezy.
::::::::::::PINCHE CARRO ISSUES::::::::::::
I love my little car. But its such a PITA when I don’t have it. I dropped it off last night at the Taller (mechanic shop) for a new brake job. Hopefully it will be done sometime today so I can use it tomorrow. Oh yeah, and just so you know, the sound of metal scrapping across metal on your brakes is never a good sound. And to me, its like nails on chalkboards. And I always feel like that means the brakes are going to give out at any second. Not a good thing to be thinking about as your going 85mph down a mountain.
So, because of my car issues I have to car pool to Mexico City today, and probably take a bus back. Ick. I’m so not loving public transportation. I’d rather be alone in my car. Anyway, hopefully its done today, so Keith can pick it up and I can have it for tomorrow morning.
Speaking of tomorrow….
::::::::::::HAPPY TURKEY DAY::::::::::::
Keith and I picked up a bird Monday afternoon (no, not a live one, it’s dead and frozen just like in the US), and will be hosting a small Thanksgiving dinner at our home. I feel kind of bad making Keith stay home and cook all day, but I have to go to this stinking class all week and I won’t be home until late. I think I may leave a few hours early though – to beat traffic in DF and to try to make it home before all the turkey is gone!
Anyway, everyone have a fun and safe and stuffed Thanksgiving – and make sure to be thankful for all the blessings you have in your life! I know I’ll be counting the kagillion that I have :)
::::::::::::GOODBYE BO::::::::::::
A couple things, first, and belated I know, is a farewell to Bo. A cyber buddy made this layout, and I really wanted to share with everyone. You can visit her blog at http://jencaputo.typepad.com/jen_caputo/
It was a bummer losing that game on Saturday, but what can you do. We went to Caliente with a few friends to watch it – intense, but just bumming’ just the same.
::::::::::::WEEKEND FUN::::::::::::
Monday was Revolution Day here, so we didn’t have to work, which is always cool.
So Sunday we headed to Valle de Bravo to visit our friend Ofo & Juan – Ofo’s family has a fantabulous condo, smack dab next to this beautiful waterfall. I didn’t want to go at first, because I had about a million things to do, but I thought it would be a good chance for me to actually get away and relax a little bit – so we did, and I’m glad we did. It was just kinda fun to drink, cook and laugh with friends. We left early in the morning on Monday to get back so I could take care of things, but it was a relaxing day nonetheless.
::::::::::::REPATRIATION::::::::::::
The interviews I had while in the US went very well – I have been offered an informal position, but am kind of waiting on the other one so I can compare jobs and take the best overall offer. I think I’d be happy in either position, and I know that I could succeed and have potential to move up in the company, it all kind of depends on the big picture – salary, benefits, 401K, etc. Since you silly peeps in the US don’t work Thursday & Friday, I’ll have to wait until next week to get those details.
Also relayed to me was the potential of me coming back earlier than I expected. I was planning on Mid Feburary, but it looks like some people maybe wanting me back in January. That is going to increase my workload significantly, but I think I can probably swing it if I keep pretty busy at work, come in on weekends, and stay until 10:00PM each night. No problem man. Easy breezy lemon squeezy.
::::::::::::PINCHE CARRO ISSUES::::::::::::
I love my little car. But its such a PITA when I don’t have it. I dropped it off last night at the Taller (mechanic shop) for a new brake job. Hopefully it will be done sometime today so I can use it tomorrow. Oh yeah, and just so you know, the sound of metal scrapping across metal on your brakes is never a good sound. And to me, its like nails on chalkboards. And I always feel like that means the brakes are going to give out at any second. Not a good thing to be thinking about as your going 85mph down a mountain.
So, because of my car issues I have to car pool to Mexico City today, and probably take a bus back. Ick. I’m so not loving public transportation. I’d rather be alone in my car. Anyway, hopefully its done today, so Keith can pick it up and I can have it for tomorrow morning.
Speaking of tomorrow….
::::::::::::HAPPY TURKEY DAY::::::::::::
Keith and I picked up a bird Monday afternoon (no, not a live one, it’s dead and frozen just like in the US), and will be hosting a small Thanksgiving dinner at our home. I feel kind of bad making Keith stay home and cook all day, but I have to go to this stinking class all week and I won’t be home until late. I think I may leave a few hours early though – to beat traffic in DF and to try to make it home before all the turkey is gone!
Anyway, everyone have a fun and safe and stuffed Thanksgiving – and make sure to be thankful for all the blessings you have in your life! I know I’ll be counting the kagillion that I have :)
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Halloweenie Pictures
Here's some pics of our pumpkins, house and our kickin' costumes. Sherrif Keith, and crazy mouse Karin.
ÜBER happy HALLOWEENIE!
I really love Halloween. I miss being able to go all out, you know? But, I did put on my cool Halloween toe socks on today. I love toe socks. Some people think that they are bothersome because it’s weird to have something in between your toes. I think that it’s like a little hug for each one of my tootsies. I love my feet :)!
You can catch a glimpes in that pic of the other socks I was torn between wearing today. They are also Halloween toe socks, but multi colored with green bats with googly pompom eyes and candy corn. Each toe is a different color. It was a tough choice :)
I also wore a little “costume” to work today. It was a grey mouse mask with glittery pink ears, grey mittens and a little grey tail with a cute pink bow on it. Everyone seemed to get a kick out of it, so my mission was accomplished. I had to take it off though – it’s hard to type with mittens on!
Keith and I carved pumpkins on Sunday afternoon. It was kinda nice but weird. I’m used to the pumpkin guts and everything being freezing cold from being outside. We had our gourds outside on the porch, and they were all, well, warm and gushy. It was very strange. Something I would have never even thought of had we not lived here – I guess that would be normal for a pumpkin out in the warm sunshine.
Keith said he hadn’t carved a pumpkin in years :) My pumpkin is way cute – but I guess so is Keith’s. I’ll post pics later…..I think we’re the only people in our neighborhood with real carved pumpkins! There are a couple of houses with plastic or metal ones though. And there are also lots of homes decorated. Tonight our privada is having a trick-or-treat thing around 6 or so – I’m going to leave work early so I can give out candy. Then after will be a little party, but I’m not sure if I’m going to that yet. I don’t really want to blow my healthy eating streak and I will be all by my lonesome….we’ll see how brave I am when the time comes.
If I don’t go, I’m going to start packing tonight for my trip. I’ll be gone two whole weeks! YIKES! Nov 2 – 9 will be in Denver for the Fall ACI Convention, then Chicago for *HOPEFULLY* a couple interviews, then maybe to St. Louis to help Pat setup some concrete tests. I come home on the 14th. Hard to believe it has been a year already, isn’t it? Anyway, if I’m out of the country when my work visa expires I get a 30 day grace period to renew it…..our legal department in Mexico City said that’s the best way to go. So I happily obliged!
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::ACI Chicas:::::::::::::::::::::::::
Here are a couple of photos that the ACI people took of us last Thursday at our meeting. I’ve never seen Orange and Black look so good! In the first pic, I’m in the middle, Veronica on my right with the black neck thingy on, and the intern, Angelica, is on my left – we bought matching shirts from Suburbia on accident! The second one features me and Angelica rockin' the registration table.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::: WEIGHT LOSS UPDATE:::::::::::::::::::::::::
I weighed in for the 1st weigh in 1 pound up from my starting weight, at 168. Dammit all anyway. But, I’ve adjusted a few things and I think it will make a big difference. Working out is going well – I had about 5 hours last week, and hope to exceed that this week also. It will be a challenge while I’m traveling, but I have a new, improved mentality so I will rise up and be victorious!!!
I probably won’t be blogging much while I’m away :o) See you on the 14th!!!
Friday, October 27, 2006
So it’s true….
Pat O’Brien mentioned something to me a while back about maybe possibly making an effort to make more entries when I’m in a good mood. I guess he has a point. I don’t want to make anybody more depressed! I was thinking about it again this week, because I haven’t had an entry since, what, Tuesday? And I’ve had a really good week! Been in a great mood – had lots of fabulous exercise and good experiences at work – but I guess I’m not moved much to write about that kind of stuff. Yes, this blog is supposed to be an account of all my experiences, good and bad, but I suppose that it’s turned into more of a therapeutic exercise for me – so I write more when I’m having a bad day or crabby or pissy just because I feel like getting it out. Understand? Eh – if not, ni modo, I get myself…..most days.
Wednesday I made my way to Planta Apaxco to learn some techniques for testing Total Alkali’s and water soluble alkalis of aggregates. I felt like I was in my element – learning new things, meeting new people – I really enjoy that. It makes me feel like, well, me. Happy and cheery and chirpy and making people laugh and all that. I did get lost on the way home. Twice. But I didn’t fret much because I had a map, a compass, a full tank of gas and lots of day light. I was pretty proud of myself for not freaking out!
After I got home from the plant I went to my favorite clothing store, Suburbia (part of the Wal-Mart chain here) and went looking for black pants and an orange shirt – our unofficial uniform for our ACI Magna meeting. I found that – well, a black suit actually, not just pants – plus about four more shirts, a pair of black leather boots (my Payless pleather boots had survived two years, and have just about had it), a pair of fabulous sunglasses (have I mentioned I’m addicted to sunglasses? A girl can never have enough) and a little present for Karli girl for Christmas. I have to stop spending money on that girl – but every where I go I find something that I think she’ll like!!! All in all, I spent about $2300 pesos, but it all serves dual purpose because I’ll be able to wear almost everything I bought at the ACI meeting in Denver next week. Oh, and I came into almost $6000 pesos in medical reimbursements, so I had a little money burning a hole in my pocket anyway.
I was surprised I liked the black suit – I usually have an aversion to them. I tried on grey, pink, purple, brown, and pinstripes - everything possible before the black suit. But its classic and it looks really nice. I think the aversion stems from my days as a Victoria’s Secret girl – that was our uniform – black pants, any color shirt, and black jacket. My experience there terminated abruptly when I quit without two weeks notice because my manager kept scheduling me on weekends I had rugby tournaments. After the third time I just couldn’t take it any more. I mean, she HAD a copy of the schedule with my name written at the top. Did she think I was just making it up?!?! I remember the day I quit she told me “OK, well, if you quit without two weeks notice you’ll never be able to work for Victoria’s Secret or any other Limited, Inc. Company EVER again!!!” Ohhhh – please lady – threaten me some more. Did I mention I was going to be a Chemical Engineer? I don’t need you and I don’t need your stinkin store!!!
**sigh** of course, I still frequent the store because their products are oh so heavenly. Not even crazy Nazi manager lady could make me stop going there…..
Speaking of retail…..for some reason, around this time of year (holiday-ish season) I always get the urge to pick up a second job. Obviously I won’t be doing so here, but I definitely have the itch. I guess I just like the business and rush of the holiday season, decorations of the malls, helping crazed shoppers, and the fun of working in retail. Not sure if I’ll ever get it out of my system :) Aside from the Body Shop direct sales gig I had for a while, the last Holiday Retail gig I did was in 2000 at Old Navy. It was awesome because it was right across the street from my apartment complex......and I looooooove me some Old Navy!
Anyway, back to the rest of my fun week…..
Thursday I took my black suit with orange shirt wearin' ass to Mexico City for Holcim’s ACI Magna meeting. Veronica and I have been planning it for over two months, so it was nice to finally have it arrive! We had a lower than expected turnout – we were hoping for 100, got 60, but it was pretty good considering we were competing against a very popular industry meeting in Acapulco. Everything went well though, and aside from the balls of my feet feeling like they are going to explode (damn those 4 inch heels) I’m no worse for the wear. I also made a date to eat dinner with the Mexico City Chapter ACI president in Denver – so that’s kind of exciting too!
That brings me to today. I’ve been setting up some tests, but I’m going to be running them tomorrow – yup – that’s me, super hard core – working on a Saturday! I have to get these tests done before I leave on Thursday though, so have little other choice. ACK! That means only a three day work week next week! WOOO HOOO!!!! That’s an exciting surprise! Almost as exciting as when I heard on the radio today to make sure to remember to turn our clocks back an hour. I LOOOOOOOOVE falling back! It’s the only day where you get an extra hour, and that is just too cool!
Oh, and a big shout out to the 1977-ish SVSU (wait, wasn’t it SVSC wayyyyyy back then???) Cardinal Football team, a few of whom will be gathering at my parent’s place this weekend to imbibe in some friendly revelry – which I’m sure will entail drinking a lot of beer and pretending to be 20 again Its not Homecoming – maybe more like an Alumni weekend, but there will be tailgating involved before the football game and SVSU will also be honoring our friend Tony Ceccacci (NASA Flight Director) as a distinguished graduate. I wish I could be there to watch the fun – they are a great group of guys, and their wives and families ain’t too shabby either : ) I have a lot of good memories of them together – I think maybe because it was always really great to see my parents so happy and having fun, acting like kids themselves.
Have A GREAT Weekend!
Wednesday I made my way to Planta Apaxco to learn some techniques for testing Total Alkali’s and water soluble alkalis of aggregates. I felt like I was in my element – learning new things, meeting new people – I really enjoy that. It makes me feel like, well, me. Happy and cheery and chirpy and making people laugh and all that. I did get lost on the way home. Twice. But I didn’t fret much because I had a map, a compass, a full tank of gas and lots of day light. I was pretty proud of myself for not freaking out!
After I got home from the plant I went to my favorite clothing store, Suburbia (part of the Wal-Mart chain here) and went looking for black pants and an orange shirt – our unofficial uniform for our ACI Magna meeting. I found that – well, a black suit actually, not just pants – plus about four more shirts, a pair of black leather boots (my Payless pleather boots had survived two years, and have just about had it), a pair of fabulous sunglasses (have I mentioned I’m addicted to sunglasses? A girl can never have enough) and a little present for Karli girl for Christmas. I have to stop spending money on that girl – but every where I go I find something that I think she’ll like!!! All in all, I spent about $2300 pesos, but it all serves dual purpose because I’ll be able to wear almost everything I bought at the ACI meeting in Denver next week. Oh, and I came into almost $6000 pesos in medical reimbursements, so I had a little money burning a hole in my pocket anyway.
I was surprised I liked the black suit – I usually have an aversion to them. I tried on grey, pink, purple, brown, and pinstripes - everything possible before the black suit. But its classic and it looks really nice. I think the aversion stems from my days as a Victoria’s Secret girl – that was our uniform – black pants, any color shirt, and black jacket. My experience there terminated abruptly when I quit without two weeks notice because my manager kept scheduling me on weekends I had rugby tournaments. After the third time I just couldn’t take it any more. I mean, she HAD a copy of the schedule with my name written at the top. Did she think I was just making it up?!?! I remember the day I quit she told me “OK, well, if you quit without two weeks notice you’ll never be able to work for Victoria’s Secret or any other Limited, Inc. Company EVER again!!!” Ohhhh – please lady – threaten me some more. Did I mention I was going to be a Chemical Engineer? I don’t need you and I don’t need your stinkin store!!!
**sigh** of course, I still frequent the store because their products are oh so heavenly. Not even crazy Nazi manager lady could make me stop going there…..
Speaking of retail…..for some reason, around this time of year (holiday-ish season) I always get the urge to pick up a second job. Obviously I won’t be doing so here, but I definitely have the itch. I guess I just like the business and rush of the holiday season, decorations of the malls, helping crazed shoppers, and the fun of working in retail. Not sure if I’ll ever get it out of my system :) Aside from the Body Shop direct sales gig I had for a while, the last Holiday Retail gig I did was in 2000 at Old Navy. It was awesome because it was right across the street from my apartment complex......and I looooooove me some Old Navy!
Anyway, back to the rest of my fun week…..
Thursday I took my black suit with orange shirt wearin' ass to Mexico City for Holcim’s ACI Magna meeting. Veronica and I have been planning it for over two months, so it was nice to finally have it arrive! We had a lower than expected turnout – we were hoping for 100, got 60, but it was pretty good considering we were competing against a very popular industry meeting in Acapulco. Everything went well though, and aside from the balls of my feet feeling like they are going to explode (damn those 4 inch heels) I’m no worse for the wear. I also made a date to eat dinner with the Mexico City Chapter ACI president in Denver – so that’s kind of exciting too!
That brings me to today. I’ve been setting up some tests, but I’m going to be running them tomorrow – yup – that’s me, super hard core – working on a Saturday! I have to get these tests done before I leave on Thursday though, so have little other choice. ACK! That means only a three day work week next week! WOOO HOOO!!!! That’s an exciting surprise! Almost as exciting as when I heard on the radio today to make sure to remember to turn our clocks back an hour. I LOOOOOOOOVE falling back! It’s the only day where you get an extra hour, and that is just too cool!
Oh, and a big shout out to the 1977-ish SVSU (wait, wasn’t it SVSC wayyyyyy back then???) Cardinal Football team, a few of whom will be gathering at my parent’s place this weekend to imbibe in some friendly revelry – which I’m sure will entail drinking a lot of beer and pretending to be 20 again Its not Homecoming – maybe more like an Alumni weekend, but there will be tailgating involved before the football game and SVSU will also be honoring our friend Tony Ceccacci (NASA Flight Director) as a distinguished graduate. I wish I could be there to watch the fun – they are a great group of guys, and their wives and families ain’t too shabby either : ) I have a lot of good memories of them together – I think maybe because it was always really great to see my parents so happy and having fun, acting like kids themselves.
Have A GREAT Weekend!
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Get yer Tiger Pumpkin Stencils Here! **REPOST**
I've gotten a few hits (OK, more than a few....more like 15 in the past day alone!!!!) over the past view days of people doing google searches for the Detroit Tiger's Pumpkin Stencils......so I thought I would be nice and repost my original post so people could find the link it more easily! I'm sure the demand for these will die down after next week.......so, here it is!
:::::::::::ORIGINAL POST:::::::::::::::::
Its just what you always dreamed of - carving your own halloween pumpkin in a gentle, candle lit homage to our hometown heros. I think its kind of hilarious - I found them as I was browsing the Tiger's Fan Forum on their website.
PUMPKIN STENCILS
Personally, I'm torn between these two.....but I'm pretty sure the old English D's gonna win out - just its just so darn classic.
:::::::::::ORIGINAL POST:::::::::::::::::
Its just what you always dreamed of - carving your own halloween pumpkin in a gentle, candle lit homage to our hometown heros. I think its kind of hilarious - I found them as I was browsing the Tiger's Fan Forum on their website.
PUMPKIN STENCILS
Personally, I'm torn between these two.....but I'm pretty sure the old English D's gonna win out - just its just so darn classic.
Ohhhh – Nice and toasty warm!!!!
I finally am wearing the serape type thing I bought at La Quimera a few moons ago. Its relatively lightweight fabric, but its wool and it is soooooo toasty warm! It’s like wearing a blanket around me wherever I go! I officially *heart* it, and I shall keep it with me for the rest of my days. It will be perfect for those crisp fall days when you have to go to a high school football game, but it’s a little too warm to bust out the winter goods. I had to make sure to wear long sleeve shirt today though, because I didn’t want to have über itchy arms. Yeah, that’s right. I said über.
My alarm was apparently playing a good song when I woke up this morning, because I was dancing when I woke up. No, I didn’t start dancing in my bed after I woke up – I actually came to consciousness and realized I was dancing. Shaking my shoulders and hips and stuff – I don’t even know the name of the song, but I know I really like it a lot. You know, it’s hard to be in a bad mood when you wake up like that, because you can’t help but laugh at yourself, and laughing smiling first thing in the morning is pretty much an instant mood picker upper.
Ooohhh - a coworker just came in and gave me some yummy treats for my throat (I’ve been having slight allergy/throat/drainage issues over the past few days). It’s like an Über Halls Lozenge, but disguised as a honey lollipop. That’s right, über and lollipop in the same sentence. I’m on a roll. Anyway, it tastes pretty good, and its all natural, and it’s got some kind of menthol yumminess in it so I can actually breathe right now. Awesome! No, ÜBER awesome.
Hmmmm….I wonder if one can overuse an umlaut? Those are the dots above the Ü in ÜBER incase you were wondering.
I was supposed to stay the night at the plant in Apaxco tonight so I could do some super cool chemical testing stuffs tomorrow morning…..but I really would rather stay here tonight and go early tomorrow morning. I have good reasons…..
- I have this phobia about staying in strange places by myself (I’m sure I’ve told you all before)
- I have no idea if they even have TV’s that would get the Tiger’s game tonight, and I’m not about to miss one
- I have a test to run here today that won’t be done until 5
- I really should go shopping tonight for an outfit for a big meeting I have on Thursday.
Then again, I really should go just to experience staying in a cement village. They had them in the US back in the day – it’s a town just for cement workers and their families, which is a really good concept seeing as how cement plants are often in the middle of no wheres. Although I don't know how I would feel about living and working with the same people every single day. It would just be too twighlight zoney.
I need to make up my mind soon – because if I’m going today I need to leave at like 3:00PM……
Monday, October 23, 2006
AHHHHH – I’m a bottomless PIT!!!!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::weightloss activities:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
First I would like to say, I am very happy to announce a two pound loss this week, and an official recommitment to eating healthier and exercising. Yes, I realize that I recommit a lot, but at least I’m not giving up for good! I’m proud of myself that I keep on coming back instead of saying “Sheesh, what’s the use!?!?!”. I know what I have to do, I just need to motivation to stick to it.
Another proud moment - this marks week 3 of getting my arse out of bed at 6AM to go work out. It’s working out well – even though this morning I did NOT want to go – I was back to being grumpy cursing Karin – but I did NOT give myself the option to go back to bed….although I did catch a 15 minute nap while I was waiting for Keith to get out of the shower – we don’t have quite enough water pressure to run both of our showers at the same time.
I’m trying something a little different in addition to my eDiets and Ultimate Challenges this time.
I’m a member of The Biggest Digi Loser! It was started by a group of girls who posted at DigiShopTalk.com, and now is an all out contents – 4 teams – 60 participants! The reason I’m doing this is because A) I really am ready to get back on track, get back on the wagon and gitty up! And B) There are some FABULOUS prizes to be had – including a cash prize for the top two % losers over the 9 week challenge and also weekly digi-prizes donated by some fabulous designers! I think some of the weekly challenges will incorporate digiscrapping too – so it seemed like a great fit!
I’m a proud member of the Green team – although I must admit it may take a while to get used to saying “GO GREEN!”.
So where does this bottomless pit theme come in? Right now. I’ve been off birth control for three cycles now, and the one major thing I have noticed is not the crazy cravings of chocolate or crazy nuts bitchiness – but rather an INSATIABLE appetite the few days leading up to my period. I mean SERIOUS bottomless pit-ness. Last month, I was with Pat O’Brien those few days leading up and I gained, like, 6 pounds in a weekend!?!?! It just seems like no matter what I eat, I cannot get satisfied! So, I’m combating this in a couple ways:
1. I’m aware. So I’m not mindlessly shoving things in my mouth. Knowing is half the battle, right? (GI Joe….the real American Hero)
2. Although it will amount to more calories than I normally eat in a day, I’ve brought some healthier type snacks to shovel in today – I’ve got grapes, ham & swiss roll ups, almonds, microwave popcorn, Green Tea & oodles of water. Also 3 Almond Hershey kisses thrown in for good measure – hey, I can’t deprive myself here!
3. I’m not going to eat any of those items unless my belly is rumbling. Which as been pretty much all day – but it’s a good rule to follow anyway. No sense in eating if I’m already full…..
Tonight I have to make a pit stop at the SuperRama to pick up some more celery and some feta cheese. Mmmmm….feta! I’m going to make a Mediterranean CousCous dish tonight that just sounds DELISH!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::weekend activities:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Friday night was a pretty chill night – although I did become engrossed in a WONDERFUL documentary on the History Channel called “THE HISTORY OF 1”. Not one person – but the number one. It was very interesting, and quite enjoyable. It trekked the journeys of the development of #1 from the times of the Romans, through India all the way to present times. They also included one’s partner, zero – and celebrated their importance. There was a whole segment on Binary code and how it came to be and how it changed the face of mathematics and computation. Binary code rocks!
Saturday was exciting – after my workout and cleaning fest (I mean SERIOUS Move Furniture Around Cleaning!) I picked up Keith from work and we hit Caliente to place a bet and then to WalMart to pick a few things up for Game 1 of the World Series! Beer and snackies and the like. We also found some real live pumpkins! Not sure when we’re going to carve them, but I’m kinda excited to do so! I’ve missed out on the whole feeling of fall with the 75°F weather and all.
It was a fun night having everyone over – we even ordered from a new local Pizza Joint that was WAY yummy! But I realized that I really don’t get to watch the game much when there are people to be talking to! Just as well the Tiger’s lost anyway – now I can’t have any more parties (Party = Loss, no party = WIN!). Glad they came back playing better in Game 2 – although Todd Jones had me worried there a bit in the 9th. I couldn’t even talk to Pat O’Brien during the game because every time I did something bad happened……
Sunday was a laundry / football / pajama all day day! I love those days sometimes!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::scrappy activities:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
I didn’t get much scrapping done per se, but I did organize and label all 3000 different scrapbook elements that I have on my computer. HOORAY! It felt sooooo good to have that all done – it took me FOREVER!!! But now, it will save me oodles of time when I’m trying to find “the perfect” thing to match a picture! I used it when I was looking for stuff for this LO – It was the only one I did manage to get done this weekend – it was for a photo swap at ACOT - this little boy is just tooooo adorable!
Credits: Paper & Elements - Autumn Glory by Shannon Lee at ShannonLeeDesigns.com; BeadyTrim - Shannon Lee at ShannonLeeDesigns.com; Fonts - Rage, Batik Regular; Hand Stamped Alpha - Michelle Coleman
Journaling Reads:
I rode on the paths of
crisp dry leaves
that flamed with color and
crackled with laughter.
That sounds like a good enough recap for me – hope all is well with all you out there in cyberlandia!
P.S. I have 80's Party Tunes playing on the iPod now - a list created by Keith. Question for you all - can anyone hear "I Think We're Alone Now" without thinking of Tiffany's spread in Playboy???
First I would like to say, I am very happy to announce a two pound loss this week, and an official recommitment to eating healthier and exercising. Yes, I realize that I recommit a lot, but at least I’m not giving up for good! I’m proud of myself that I keep on coming back instead of saying “Sheesh, what’s the use!?!?!”. I know what I have to do, I just need to motivation to stick to it.
Another proud moment - this marks week 3 of getting my arse out of bed at 6AM to go work out. It’s working out well – even though this morning I did NOT want to go – I was back to being grumpy cursing Karin – but I did NOT give myself the option to go back to bed….although I did catch a 15 minute nap while I was waiting for Keith to get out of the shower – we don’t have quite enough water pressure to run both of our showers at the same time.
I’m trying something a little different in addition to my eDiets and Ultimate Challenges this time.
I’m a member of The Biggest Digi Loser! It was started by a group of girls who posted at DigiShopTalk.com, and now is an all out contents – 4 teams – 60 participants! The reason I’m doing this is because A) I really am ready to get back on track, get back on the wagon and gitty up! And B) There are some FABULOUS prizes to be had – including a cash prize for the top two % losers over the 9 week challenge and also weekly digi-prizes donated by some fabulous designers! I think some of the weekly challenges will incorporate digiscrapping too – so it seemed like a great fit!
I’m a proud member of the Green team – although I must admit it may take a while to get used to saying “GO GREEN!”.
So where does this bottomless pit theme come in? Right now. I’ve been off birth control for three cycles now, and the one major thing I have noticed is not the crazy cravings of chocolate or crazy nuts bitchiness – but rather an INSATIABLE appetite the few days leading up to my period. I mean SERIOUS bottomless pit-ness. Last month, I was with Pat O’Brien those few days leading up and I gained, like, 6 pounds in a weekend!?!?! It just seems like no matter what I eat, I cannot get satisfied! So, I’m combating this in a couple ways:
1. I’m aware. So I’m not mindlessly shoving things in my mouth. Knowing is half the battle, right? (GI Joe….the real American Hero)
2. Although it will amount to more calories than I normally eat in a day, I’ve brought some healthier type snacks to shovel in today – I’ve got grapes, ham & swiss roll ups, almonds, microwave popcorn, Green Tea & oodles of water. Also 3 Almond Hershey kisses thrown in for good measure – hey, I can’t deprive myself here!
3. I’m not going to eat any of those items unless my belly is rumbling. Which as been pretty much all day – but it’s a good rule to follow anyway. No sense in eating if I’m already full…..
Tonight I have to make a pit stop at the SuperRama to pick up some more celery and some feta cheese. Mmmmm….feta! I’m going to make a Mediterranean CousCous dish tonight that just sounds DELISH!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::weekend activities:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Friday night was a pretty chill night – although I did become engrossed in a WONDERFUL documentary on the History Channel called “THE HISTORY OF 1”. Not one person – but the number one. It was very interesting, and quite enjoyable. It trekked the journeys of the development of #1 from the times of the Romans, through India all the way to present times. They also included one’s partner, zero – and celebrated their importance. There was a whole segment on Binary code and how it came to be and how it changed the face of mathematics and computation. Binary code rocks!
Saturday was exciting – after my workout and cleaning fest (I mean SERIOUS Move Furniture Around Cleaning!) I picked up Keith from work and we hit Caliente to place a bet and then to WalMart to pick a few things up for Game 1 of the World Series! Beer and snackies and the like. We also found some real live pumpkins! Not sure when we’re going to carve them, but I’m kinda excited to do so! I’ve missed out on the whole feeling of fall with the 75°F weather and all.
It was a fun night having everyone over – we even ordered from a new local Pizza Joint that was WAY yummy! But I realized that I really don’t get to watch the game much when there are people to be talking to! Just as well the Tiger’s lost anyway – now I can’t have any more parties (Party = Loss, no party = WIN!). Glad they came back playing better in Game 2 – although Todd Jones had me worried there a bit in the 9th. I couldn’t even talk to Pat O’Brien during the game because every time I did something bad happened……
Sunday was a laundry / football / pajama all day day! I love those days sometimes!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::scrappy activities:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
I didn’t get much scrapping done per se, but I did organize and label all 3000 different scrapbook elements that I have on my computer. HOORAY! It felt sooooo good to have that all done – it took me FOREVER!!! But now, it will save me oodles of time when I’m trying to find “the perfect” thing to match a picture! I used it when I was looking for stuff for this LO – It was the only one I did manage to get done this weekend – it was for a photo swap at ACOT - this little boy is just tooooo adorable!
Credits: Paper & Elements - Autumn Glory by Shannon Lee at ShannonLeeDesigns.com; BeadyTrim - Shannon Lee at ShannonLeeDesigns.com; Fonts - Rage, Batik Regular; Hand Stamped Alpha - Michelle Coleman
Journaling Reads:
I rode on the paths of
crisp dry leaves
that flamed with color and
crackled with laughter.
That sounds like a good enough recap for me – hope all is well with all you out there in cyberlandia!
P.S. I have 80's Party Tunes playing on the iPod now - a list created by Keith. Question for you all - can anyone hear "I Think We're Alone Now" without thinking of Tiffany's spread in Playboy???
Friday, October 20, 2006
OK - done being heartbroken
So I guess I use this blog more as a bitching grounds more than anything. I guess I don't feel like writing unless I need to vent.....So if I've depressed you by reading this - I apologize - I promise my life isn't all gloom and doom! I'm going to try to make it a point to at least pop in and say hi even if I don't have to bitch and complain. Deal? Deal.
OK, first - plans for this weekend - tomorrow Keith has to work, so I'll probably spend the first part of the day going to the gym and cleaning the house. Then, I really want to go do downtown Toluca because apparently they are having a Festival of Sugar Skulls (did I mention that before? I feel like I have......). Then I plan on coming back to the house for a rousing Game 1 of the World Series! GOOOO TIGERS! I think we're asking a few peeps to come over, but who knows - it will probably be some last minute thing.....Sunday will be a football day, and maybe I'll try to finish scrapping the Prom section of my high school scrapbook......and maybe get some holiday stuff done too.....I really want to make Christmas cards by the time I got to Denver in two weeks. That way I can address them during the Month of November and have Pat send them from Chicago after he visits late Nov/Early Dec. He's only got one more visit scheduled - how crazy is that?!??!
*note to self* I must stop at SuperRama on the way home from work to buy lettuce, tomatoes and some fruit. I went to Wal-Mart last night, but was running late to pick up Keith from work and completely forgot all things produce. DOH!
Here's a partial list I found on another scrappy blog.....I thought I would highlight those things I have done, and those things I never plan to do. Enjoy!
Here are things I have done
Climbed a mountain.Ridden in an airplane.Been inside the Great Pyramid (well, A great pyramid – they weren’t specific in this list).Taken a candlelit bath with someone. Said “I love you’ and meant it. Hugged a tree. Bungee jumped.Watched a lightning storm at sea. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise.Seen the Northern Lights.Grown and eaten your own vegetables. (Well, technically it was Keith who did it, but since I paid for everything I’m taking credit)Changed a baby’s diaper.Watched a meteor shower. Gotten drunk on champagne. Given more than you can afford to charity. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment. (Keith’s confirmation, I think)Had a food fight.Bet on a winning horse.Asked out a stranger.Had a snowball fight. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can. Seen a total eclipse.Ridden a roller coaster. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment. Taken care of someone who was drunk. (Many times, but one in particular a boyfriend I had barfed by trying to put his head outside the window of my car while I was driving us home……well, he made it like, half way. Ew.)Had amazing friends.Danced with a stranger in a foreign country.Stolen a sign.Taken a roadtrip.Midnight walk on the beach.Had a stranger ask you to dance.Visited JapanAlphabetized your CDs.Sung karaoke. Lounged around in bed all day. Gone scuba diving. Kissed in the rain. Kissed on a first date.Played in the mud. Played in the rain.Gone to a drive-in theater. Started a business. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken. (Living that right now baby!)Toured ancient sites.Gotten married.Been in a movie. Crashed a party.Gotten divorced.Made cookies from scratch.Won first prize in a costume contest.Gotten a tattoo.Rafted the Snake River. (Snake River Falls at Cedar Point counts, right??!)Got flowers for no reason. Performed on stage.Been to Las Vegas.Recorded music.Eaten alligator.Bought a house.Looked out onto the Atlantic Ocean.Looked out onto the Pacific Ocean.Spoken more than one language fluently. (OK, so maybe fluently is stretching it, but I’m almost there!!!!!)Picked up and moved to another city to just start over. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking. Had plastic surgery.Thanked God that He got you home safely.Wrote articles for a large publication. (Does a blog with 22 visitors a day count as a large publication? If not, I’ve got lots of other websites, oh – and the Carrollton High School newspaper and yearbook J )Petted a stingray. Broken someone’s heart. Broken a bone.Bailed a friend out of jail. (This would be Keith related as well……what better friend than your brother)Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol.Ridden a horse.Had major surgery.Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours.Ridden a mechanical bull.Had a specific prayer answered.Eaten sushi. (One word – ew.)Had your picture in the newspaper. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about. Gone back to school.Parasailed.Eaten fried green tomatoes.Skipped all your school reunions. (There’s only been one, and I wasn’t there, so I would assume YES!)Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language. (That was like the first month of my life here!!!)Had a true spiritual experience.Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream. (Estoy viviendo mi sueño ahorita!!!)Changed a tire.Skinny dipped.Dyed your hair.Been a DJ. (iPod. I’m my own DJ everyday.)Traveled to a tropical island.Caused a car accident. (Actually, I rear ended someone today……)Faced a fear. (Yup – that’s why I’m here!!!)
Here are some things I haven’t gotten around to yet
Swam with wild dolphins,Taken a Ferrari for a test drive,Held a tarantula.Visited ParisGone to a huge sports game (and survived the crush afterwards). Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa Touched an iceberg.Slept under the stars. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon. (does just going up and then down in one count?)Held a lamb.Hit a home run. Had two hard drives for your computer.Visited all 50 states. Watched wild whales.Gone rock climbing. Gone sky diving.Visited Ireland.Milked a cow.Pretended to be a superhero. Visited the Great Wall of China. Taken a martial arts class.Ridden a gondola in Venice.Been on television news programs as an “expert”.Buried one/both of your parents.Been on a cruise ship.Raised children. (Doing it now...)Walked the Golden Gate Bridge.Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived.Held someone while they were having a flashback.Piloted an airplane.Helped an animal give birth.Won money on a T.V. game show.Gone on an African photo safari.Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild.Visited more foreign countries than U.S.states.Visited all 7 continents.Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days. Eaten kangaroo meat. Killed and prepared an animal for eating. Been elected to public office.Had to put someone you love into hospice care.Saved someone’s life
And things I don’t think I’ll be trying to achieve – ever!
Bought everyone in the bar a drink.Adopted an accent for an entire day. (Who Actually does that??)Backpacked in Europe.Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love.In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them.Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight.Gone without food for 5 days. Won first prize in a limbo contest.Had a one night stand.Been in a combat zone. Performed in Rocky Horror. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour.Lost over 100 poundsHad a snake as a pet.Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey. Written your own computer language.Built your own PC from parts. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you. Shaved your head. (Does shaving someone elses head count?)
Whew. Have fun reading through that! I guess the point is my "Done" list is much greater than either of the other two. Nothing to complain about there, right?
OK, first - plans for this weekend - tomorrow Keith has to work, so I'll probably spend the first part of the day going to the gym and cleaning the house. Then, I really want to go do downtown Toluca because apparently they are having a Festival of Sugar Skulls (did I mention that before? I feel like I have......). Then I plan on coming back to the house for a rousing Game 1 of the World Series! GOOOO TIGERS! I think we're asking a few peeps to come over, but who knows - it will probably be some last minute thing.....Sunday will be a football day, and maybe I'll try to finish scrapping the Prom section of my high school scrapbook......and maybe get some holiday stuff done too.....I really want to make Christmas cards by the time I got to Denver in two weeks. That way I can address them during the Month of November and have Pat send them from Chicago after he visits late Nov/Early Dec. He's only got one more visit scheduled - how crazy is that?!??!
*note to self* I must stop at SuperRama on the way home from work to buy lettuce, tomatoes and some fruit. I went to Wal-Mart last night, but was running late to pick up Keith from work and completely forgot all things produce. DOH!
Here's a partial list I found on another scrappy blog.....I thought I would highlight those things I have done, and those things I never plan to do. Enjoy!
Here are things I have done
Climbed a mountain.Ridden in an airplane.Been inside the Great Pyramid (well, A great pyramid – they weren’t specific in this list).Taken a candlelit bath with someone. Said “I love you’ and meant it. Hugged a tree. Bungee jumped.Watched a lightning storm at sea. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise.Seen the Northern Lights.Grown and eaten your own vegetables. (Well, technically it was Keith who did it, but since I paid for everything I’m taking credit)Changed a baby’s diaper.Watched a meteor shower. Gotten drunk on champagne. Given more than you can afford to charity. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment. (Keith’s confirmation, I think)Had a food fight.Bet on a winning horse.Asked out a stranger.Had a snowball fight. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can. Seen a total eclipse.Ridden a roller coaster. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment. Taken care of someone who was drunk. (Many times, but one in particular a boyfriend I had barfed by trying to put his head outside the window of my car while I was driving us home……well, he made it like, half way. Ew.)Had amazing friends.Danced with a stranger in a foreign country.Stolen a sign.Taken a roadtrip.Midnight walk on the beach.Had a stranger ask you to dance.Visited JapanAlphabetized your CDs.Sung karaoke. Lounged around in bed all day. Gone scuba diving. Kissed in the rain. Kissed on a first date.Played in the mud. Played in the rain.Gone to a drive-in theater. Started a business. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken. (Living that right now baby!)Toured ancient sites.Gotten married.Been in a movie. Crashed a party.Gotten divorced.Made cookies from scratch.Won first prize in a costume contest.Gotten a tattoo.Rafted the Snake River. (Snake River Falls at Cedar Point counts, right??!)Got flowers for no reason. Performed on stage.Been to Las Vegas.Recorded music.Eaten alligator.Bought a house.Looked out onto the Atlantic Ocean.Looked out onto the Pacific Ocean.Spoken more than one language fluently. (OK, so maybe fluently is stretching it, but I’m almost there!!!!!)Picked up and moved to another city to just start over. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking. Had plastic surgery.Thanked God that He got you home safely.Wrote articles for a large publication. (Does a blog with 22 visitors a day count as a large publication? If not, I’ve got lots of other websites, oh – and the Carrollton High School newspaper and yearbook J )Petted a stingray. Broken someone’s heart. Broken a bone.Bailed a friend out of jail. (This would be Keith related as well……what better friend than your brother)Had a body part of yours below the neck pierced. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol.Ridden a horse.Had major surgery.Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours.Ridden a mechanical bull.Had a specific prayer answered.Eaten sushi. (One word – ew.)Had your picture in the newspaper. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about. Gone back to school.Parasailed.Eaten fried green tomatoes.Skipped all your school reunions. (There’s only been one, and I wasn’t there, so I would assume YES!)Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language. (That was like the first month of my life here!!!)Had a true spiritual experience.Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream. (Estoy viviendo mi sueño ahorita!!!)Changed a tire.Skinny dipped.Dyed your hair.Been a DJ. (iPod. I’m my own DJ everyday.)Traveled to a tropical island.Caused a car accident. (Actually, I rear ended someone today……)Faced a fear. (Yup – that’s why I’m here!!!)
Here are some things I haven’t gotten around to yet
Swam with wild dolphins,Taken a Ferrari for a test drive,Held a tarantula.Visited ParisGone to a huge sports game (and survived the crush afterwards). Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa Touched an iceberg.Slept under the stars. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon. (does just going up and then down in one count?)Held a lamb.Hit a home run. Had two hard drives for your computer.Visited all 50 states. Watched wild whales.Gone rock climbing. Gone sky diving.Visited Ireland.Milked a cow.Pretended to be a superhero. Visited the Great Wall of China. Taken a martial arts class.Ridden a gondola in Venice.Been on television news programs as an “expert”.Buried one/both of your parents.Been on a cruise ship.Raised children. (Doing it now...)Walked the Golden Gate Bridge.Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived.Held someone while they were having a flashback.Piloted an airplane.Helped an animal give birth.Won money on a T.V. game show.Gone on an African photo safari.Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild.Visited more foreign countries than U.S.states.Visited all 7 continents.Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days. Eaten kangaroo meat. Killed and prepared an animal for eating. Been elected to public office.Had to put someone you love into hospice care.Saved someone’s life
And things I don’t think I’ll be trying to achieve – ever!
Bought everyone in the bar a drink.Adopted an accent for an entire day. (Who Actually does that??)Backpacked in Europe.Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love.In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them.Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight.Gone without food for 5 days. Won first prize in a limbo contest.Had a one night stand.Been in a combat zone. Performed in Rocky Horror. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour.Lost over 100 poundsHad a snake as a pet.Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey. Written your own computer language.Built your own PC from parts. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you. Shaved your head. (Does shaving someone elses head count?)
Whew. Have fun reading through that! I guess the point is my "Done" list is much greater than either of the other two. Nothing to complain about there, right?
Heartbreak
It is nearly impossible for me to not involve myself emotionally with things. Sometimes people say “well, don’t get your hopes up” or, “don’t get too excited” – and those are two phrases that I am unable to process. Sometimes people say that you should not let your emotions govern you, that you should rule your emotions. Again, another thing that I am incapable of doing.
It’s a double edged sword. I don’t do anything half assed – it’s usually all or nothing with me. When I decide there is something I want to do – I go all out until I get it or I have proved satisfactorily that it cannot be done. Proof of that is me being here in Mexico. There were many people who didn’t necessarily want to spend the dough to send me here – I kept on pushing until they thought otherwise.
The other edge of that sword is that I become all consumed in whatever task I decided to make my mission, and I don’t often stop until its completed – regardless of cost – because really, it *can* be done even if it *shouldn’t*. some might call that obsession – and they probably are correct in doing so – but that part of me has taken my life to various successes, and the ability to really enjoy the high of those risks, even at the cost of being heartbroken from time to time.
So that brings me to this point. Could we have Tigers tickets at Comerica? Yes, we could. But at what cost? I’ve mentioned that issue before – and Pat O’Brien and I made the decision that it wasn’t worth it because of the other expenses we have coming up with the wedding and essentially non-available income. Heartbreak #1
I got an email last night from the St. Louis Cardinals saying that if they won last nights game, I would have the opportunity to buy tickets in St. Louis. The email made it sound like it was a sure thing – I looked into flights, hotels, tentatively rearranged my schedule with work…..I was excited! I had my hopes up…..despite the warning from Pat O’Brien. Alas, the email was probably sent to everyone that didn’t get tickets from the lottery the first time around and while sitting in the virtual waiting room this morning at 9:30 AM, the tickets were sold out. Heartbreak #2
Could I have come home this weekend to watch the first two games in the good ol’ US of A in the company of ferocious Tiger fans, who coincidentally happen to be my future family-in-law, while having a fun family weekend at a Holidome in Kalamazoo? Yes, I could have. But that opportunity expired about 10 minutes ago – which was the last bus I could have caught to Mexico City in order to make the flight….and that my friends, was my third, and hopefully final, heartbreak of the week.
Yes, I suppose its all for the better. It’s always a good decision to not spend money that you don’t really have – not to borrow what you cannot afford to pay up front – but something in me really this week just wanted to throw caution to the wind – to forget about being responsible, level headed and practical, and to be able to be spontaneous, reckless, and carefree. I wanted to just live for the moment – to buy a really, really, last minute flight; to rush home, throw my things in a carry on, and run with everything I had to try to catch a flight and arrive safely to Pat O’Brien and company. You know, I actually contemplated doing it – I had my credit card number filled in – but right before I hit “complete order” – I thought twice. Because I knew if I showed up unexpected that Pat O’Brien just might be a little more angry at me for spending the money, than happy to see me…….that might have a been a little too much heartbreak for me to handle.
It’s a double edged sword. I don’t do anything half assed – it’s usually all or nothing with me. When I decide there is something I want to do – I go all out until I get it or I have proved satisfactorily that it cannot be done. Proof of that is me being here in Mexico. There were many people who didn’t necessarily want to spend the dough to send me here – I kept on pushing until they thought otherwise.
The other edge of that sword is that I become all consumed in whatever task I decided to make my mission, and I don’t often stop until its completed – regardless of cost – because really, it *can* be done even if it *shouldn’t*. some might call that obsession – and they probably are correct in doing so – but that part of me has taken my life to various successes, and the ability to really enjoy the high of those risks, even at the cost of being heartbroken from time to time.
So that brings me to this point. Could we have Tigers tickets at Comerica? Yes, we could. But at what cost? I’ve mentioned that issue before – and Pat O’Brien and I made the decision that it wasn’t worth it because of the other expenses we have coming up with the wedding and essentially non-available income. Heartbreak #1
I got an email last night from the St. Louis Cardinals saying that if they won last nights game, I would have the opportunity to buy tickets in St. Louis. The email made it sound like it was a sure thing – I looked into flights, hotels, tentatively rearranged my schedule with work…..I was excited! I had my hopes up…..despite the warning from Pat O’Brien. Alas, the email was probably sent to everyone that didn’t get tickets from the lottery the first time around and while sitting in the virtual waiting room this morning at 9:30 AM, the tickets were sold out. Heartbreak #2
Could I have come home this weekend to watch the first two games in the good ol’ US of A in the company of ferocious Tiger fans, who coincidentally happen to be my future family-in-law, while having a fun family weekend at a Holidome in Kalamazoo? Yes, I could have. But that opportunity expired about 10 minutes ago – which was the last bus I could have caught to Mexico City in order to make the flight….and that my friends, was my third, and hopefully final, heartbreak of the week.
Yes, I suppose its all for the better. It’s always a good decision to not spend money that you don’t really have – not to borrow what you cannot afford to pay up front – but something in me really this week just wanted to throw caution to the wind – to forget about being responsible, level headed and practical, and to be able to be spontaneous, reckless, and carefree. I wanted to just live for the moment – to buy a really, really, last minute flight; to rush home, throw my things in a carry on, and run with everything I had to try to catch a flight and arrive safely to Pat O’Brien and company. You know, I actually contemplated doing it – I had my credit card number filled in – but right before I hit “complete order” – I thought twice. Because I knew if I showed up unexpected that Pat O’Brien just might be a little more angry at me for spending the money, than happy to see me…….that might have a been a little too much heartbreak for me to handle.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
La Quimera and Dia de los Muertos buys....
Here’s some interesting tid bits of information I finally figured out about this upcoming holiday that has been baffling me for the past few weeks. To see a lots of information on the subject, peruse through http://www.azcentral.com/ent/dead/.
In so many words, Dia de los Muertos is an adapted tradition from a month long celebration began by the Aztecs. Skulls were used to honor the dead because they symbolized not only death, but rebirth as well. And, well, they had a plentiful collection laying around because they kept them as trophies after killing people :o)
From what I’ve garnered so far, there are two common ways to celebrate this holiday in Mexico. One (which is more common in the pueblitas outside of the city limits) is to go to the cemetery to party all day and to decorate the grave site in marigolds, candles, and place offerings of items that person liked, such as toys, tequila, favorite foods, cigarettes, etc. The purpose behind that is that it was believed (in Aztec times, not sure about now-a-days) that the loved ones came back to visit during this time.
More in the metropolitan areas, people go to the gravesites less to celebrate and more frequently set up an altar in their home, sometimes dedicating entire rooms to the altar – which are frequently adorned with sugar or chocolate chalacas (skulls), pictures of the venerated deceased, candles, flowers, favorite foods, and the like.
Oh, I should mention Dia de los Muertos is a national holiday, and yes, we do have the day off.
From what I understand (based on many things, including that book I read a month or so ago about the Four Agreements) is that the natives believed that dying doesn’t signify the end of life, just the ending of a dream in which (in death) they become truly awake. It’s not so far from our concept of heaven, I suppose, but the big difference is they didn’t fear death, they embraced it. Or so we assume….
In my opinion, I’ve always seen skeletons as kind of creepy and scary. And the amount of adoration of these objects here did seem a little sacrilegious – I mean, putting a skeleton on an altar?? You might as well throw a creepy scary clown up there & a murderous doll that comes to life after dark, too. And, the whole coming back to visit thing is kinda creepy to me, but the base of the tradition is rooted in a culture that viewed death completely different than I do. I believe we die, our souls are ascended into some concept of heaven and we spend an eternity there…..but still despite that comforting fate my mind has been molded by society to fear death, the unknown, and scary things like ghosts and skeletons.
The Spaniards when they came to Mexico thought the same thing….Although I must admit, I would have thought it to be much creepier if they were using actual human skulls too! So they tried to extinguish the celebration – and instead of the original month long celebration it is now one or two days, and its been moved from the 9th Aztec month (August, ish?) to now coincide with the Catholic celebration of All Saint’s and All Soul’s day.
::::::::::::::END OF HISTORY LESSON:::::::::::::::::
So, along with living in a new culture comes appreciation and adaptation of my views to incorporate new things I’ve learned. I must admit, even thought shock of seeing zillions of skeletons initially shocked me, I’ve grown to like them – the wild colors and creative decoration certainly can be appreciated as art – and some of the skeletons just are down right cute! Its hard to be afraid of a dancing skeleton wearing a mariachi hat and holding a guitar, you know?
I’ve even purchased a couple items for the celebration, including a fabulous Pop Up altar ready for use in our home – all we have to do is write the name of our dead we would like to honor and that’s it! It even comes complete with lit candles, skeletons, food and tequila! Best of all – I found it at Wal-Mart! Nothing like getting a good dose of the local cultural from Wally World!
As Keith and I were walking around La Quimera last night (the art festival in Metepec’s Centro) we saw rows upon rows of potential offerings. I picked up a couple sugar cube skulls – no chocolate ones since I ordered some from a guy at work that makes them with his family every year. Also saw other incredibly ornate skulls, but we passed on buying those.
Sugar cube type skull-itos - only about 1 1/2" high
Crazy decorated ones - more about 4" high - not sure what the heck they were made out of....
There were also little sculptures of fruit and veggies created out of paste from the pumpkin seed, and also figurines you could buy that represented careers the dead had while living or hobbies. They had a skeleton teacher and student, one drinking a beer with his dog close by, doctors operating and taking X-Rays, oh yeah, AND (get ready for this) strippers. HA! So if the dearly beloved had a career as a pole dancer, you could get a figurine to represent her as well! See if you can find her in the picture below.
If you click on the pic, you can see better the detail of the intricately placed pole, and the mat that reads "Table Dance!". ¡AWESOME!
I also purchased some local art particular to Metepec. Its an Arbol de Vida – which typically depicts scenes from the bible – but in this case is adorned with things to celebrate Dia de los Muertos. Too cute! And also a clay skull to hold a candle, for our home altar, of course! I just love the detail and colors!
Last but not least, and completely unrelated to Dia de los Muertos, I purchased a nice wool serape. I’ve been trying to find one that isn’t hella big on me, but that looks nice and has a pretty natural color – and I lucked out and found one for $110 pesos! What a steal! Now I can be fashionable and warm in my office! I probably should have picked up some wool socks to keep my ankles warm, too, now that I think about it……
In so many words, Dia de los Muertos is an adapted tradition from a month long celebration began by the Aztecs. Skulls were used to honor the dead because they symbolized not only death, but rebirth as well. And, well, they had a plentiful collection laying around because they kept them as trophies after killing people :o)
From what I’ve garnered so far, there are two common ways to celebrate this holiday in Mexico. One (which is more common in the pueblitas outside of the city limits) is to go to the cemetery to party all day and to decorate the grave site in marigolds, candles, and place offerings of items that person liked, such as toys, tequila, favorite foods, cigarettes, etc. The purpose behind that is that it was believed (in Aztec times, not sure about now-a-days) that the loved ones came back to visit during this time.
More in the metropolitan areas, people go to the gravesites less to celebrate and more frequently set up an altar in their home, sometimes dedicating entire rooms to the altar – which are frequently adorned with sugar or chocolate chalacas (skulls), pictures of the venerated deceased, candles, flowers, favorite foods, and the like.
Oh, I should mention Dia de los Muertos is a national holiday, and yes, we do have the day off.
From what I understand (based on many things, including that book I read a month or so ago about the Four Agreements) is that the natives believed that dying doesn’t signify the end of life, just the ending of a dream in which (in death) they become truly awake. It’s not so far from our concept of heaven, I suppose, but the big difference is they didn’t fear death, they embraced it. Or so we assume….
In my opinion, I’ve always seen skeletons as kind of creepy and scary. And the amount of adoration of these objects here did seem a little sacrilegious – I mean, putting a skeleton on an altar?? You might as well throw a creepy scary clown up there & a murderous doll that comes to life after dark, too. And, the whole coming back to visit thing is kinda creepy to me, but the base of the tradition is rooted in a culture that viewed death completely different than I do. I believe we die, our souls are ascended into some concept of heaven and we spend an eternity there…..but still despite that comforting fate my mind has been molded by society to fear death, the unknown, and scary things like ghosts and skeletons.
The Spaniards when they came to Mexico thought the same thing….Although I must admit, I would have thought it to be much creepier if they were using actual human skulls too! So they tried to extinguish the celebration – and instead of the original month long celebration it is now one or two days, and its been moved from the 9th Aztec month (August, ish?) to now coincide with the Catholic celebration of All Saint’s and All Soul’s day.
::::::::::::::END OF HISTORY LESSON:::::::::::::::::
So, along with living in a new culture comes appreciation and adaptation of my views to incorporate new things I’ve learned. I must admit, even thought shock of seeing zillions of skeletons initially shocked me, I’ve grown to like them – the wild colors and creative decoration certainly can be appreciated as art – and some of the skeletons just are down right cute! Its hard to be afraid of a dancing skeleton wearing a mariachi hat and holding a guitar, you know?
I’ve even purchased a couple items for the celebration, including a fabulous Pop Up altar ready for use in our home – all we have to do is write the name of our dead we would like to honor and that’s it! It even comes complete with lit candles, skeletons, food and tequila! Best of all – I found it at Wal-Mart! Nothing like getting a good dose of the local cultural from Wally World!
As Keith and I were walking around La Quimera last night (the art festival in Metepec’s Centro) we saw rows upon rows of potential offerings. I picked up a couple sugar cube skulls – no chocolate ones since I ordered some from a guy at work that makes them with his family every year. Also saw other incredibly ornate skulls, but we passed on buying those.
Sugar cube type skull-itos - only about 1 1/2" high
Crazy decorated ones - more about 4" high - not sure what the heck they were made out of....There were also little sculptures of fruit and veggies created out of paste from the pumpkin seed, and also figurines you could buy that represented careers the dead had while living or hobbies. They had a skeleton teacher and student, one drinking a beer with his dog close by, doctors operating and taking X-Rays, oh yeah, AND (get ready for this) strippers. HA! So if the dearly beloved had a career as a pole dancer, you could get a figurine to represent her as well! See if you can find her in the picture below.
If you click on the pic, you can see better the detail of the intricately placed pole, and the mat that reads "Table Dance!". ¡AWESOME!I also purchased some local art particular to Metepec. Its an Arbol de Vida – which typically depicts scenes from the bible – but in this case is adorned with things to celebrate Dia de los Muertos. Too cute! And also a clay skull to hold a candle, for our home altar, of course! I just love the detail and colors!
Last but not least, and completely unrelated to Dia de los Muertos, I purchased a nice wool serape. I’ve been trying to find one that isn’t hella big on me, but that looks nice and has a pretty natural color – and I lucked out and found one for $110 pesos! What a steal! Now I can be fashionable and warm in my office! I probably should have picked up some wool socks to keep my ankles warm, too, now that I think about it……
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
La Familia Medel
This is picture I came across when going through all my old CD's of digital pics. Its of my grandma, my mom, and most of her brothers & sisters (one brother and one sister are missing). I love it because it shows everyone smiling and having a good time! No fake smiles in this pic!
Credits: Jen Wilson - Genuine Swing; Fonts - Batik Regular, Susie's Hand; Staples - Lauren Bird; Ball Chain - Scrapsy Daisy
Credits: Jen Wilson - Genuine Swing; Fonts - Batik Regular, Susie's Hand; Staples - Lauren Bird; Ball Chain - Scrapsy Daisy
Monday, October 16, 2006
Scrapitty Do Dah
I really haven't scrapped in a while, since I've been trying to organize most of my stuff with my new organizational software ACDSee.....I've also come across a plethora of awesome photos that are, like, four years old....such as these ones of Kyle & Austin. Too precious! Its given me some motivation to start scrapping again!
Here are a couple of my most recent gigs...
Austin
Credits - Kit by Shannon Carlson at ShannonLeeDesigns.com, tears by Steph Krush, Fonts - Rage, Batik Regular.
Viva Mexico
Template - Marcie Reckinger Got Layers 2 (modified for 8.5x11)l; Paper- Lauren Bird, Jen Wilson, Julie Howard; Alpha - Jen Wilson Seasonal Scraps Glass Fused Alpha; Font - Gigi
Journaling reads: 15 de septiembre - one night before the actual dia de independencia, but a night of fun and jubilation nonetheless. We had a few drinks in el Centro, then headed to Kate & Marco’s home to have a nice dinner & more libations. We had a few too many, and never did make it back to hear the grito....its a shame, the atmosphere in the zocalo was amazing! The flags, food, and of course, sombrero’s with VIVA MEXICO CABRONES written proudly on the rim - it was all so cool for the short time we were there! Moni, Sergio & Fiero were on hand to celebrate as well!
Also finally scanned some cool pics of my Grandma Mayer (or should I say, Gladys "Whitey" Williams), back in the day! Here she is with her Illinois State Championship Team - the Caterpillar Dieselettes! I got most of these from scrapbooks she put together - mostly newspaper clippings and such - but very cool just the same! Who knew it ran in the family! One of my goals was to come back to the US with all these scrapbooks and photos scanned and put on DVD's - so I got four months to get on my horse! I scanned these in Saturday night while I was crying pondering the importance of baseball in my life......Grandma is the top most chick in right field.......
Thats about it for today - got another busy day tomorrow! Ciao!
Here are a couple of my most recent gigs...
Austin
Credits - Kit by Shannon Carlson at ShannonLeeDesigns.com, tears by Steph Krush, Fonts - Rage, Batik Regular.Viva Mexico
Template - Marcie Reckinger Got Layers 2 (modified for 8.5x11)l; Paper- Lauren Bird, Jen Wilson, Julie Howard; Alpha - Jen Wilson Seasonal Scraps Glass Fused Alpha; Font - GigiJournaling reads: 15 de septiembre - one night before the actual dia de independencia, but a night of fun and jubilation nonetheless. We had a few drinks in el Centro, then headed to Kate & Marco’s home to have a nice dinner & more libations. We had a few too many, and never did make it back to hear the grito....its a shame, the atmosphere in the zocalo was amazing! The flags, food, and of course, sombrero’s with VIVA MEXICO CABRONES written proudly on the rim - it was all so cool for the short time we were there! Moni, Sergio & Fiero were on hand to celebrate as well!
Also finally scanned some cool pics of my Grandma Mayer (or should I say, Gladys "Whitey" Williams), back in the day! Here she is with her Illinois State Championship Team - the Caterpillar Dieselettes! I got most of these from scrapbooks she put together - mostly newspaper clippings and such - but very cool just the same! Who knew it ran in the family! One of my goals was to come back to the US with all these scrapbooks and photos scanned and put on DVD's - so I got four months to get on my horse! I scanned these in Saturday night while I was crying pondering the importance of baseball in my life......Grandma is the top most chick in right field.......
Thats about it for today - got another busy day tomorrow! Ciao!
Bummed bummed bummed
On Saturday night I had a good cry whilst laying in the shower……I realized shortly after the Tigers clinched their World series birth that the chances of myself or Pat getting tickets was a long shot unless we wanted to pay that $600 each.
And we all know that’s not very practical. Especially with a $600 plane ticket on top of that.
Despite knowing that it was unreasonable to spend that much money, I was so so sad. So so upset, knowing that I wasn’t going to be there to be a part of history. Because to me, its not just a game – its part of me, part of my family, part of my history. Baseball represents so much more than just 9 innings and a few beers. My first games were with my dad and my grandpa – and my grandmother played ball for quite a while too (she actually wore Joe Tinker’s pants once – of Tinkers to Evers to Chance. One of my best friends in the world was discovered because of our mutual love for baseball. The world is always somehow a better place when you’re at the ballpark. So not being there – I feel like I’m missing out, you know? I’m missing out on making a great new memory with Pat O’Brien, I’m missing out on history.
You wanna know what really pisses me off??? Ass wipes who buy the tix, then turn around and sell the damn things for an absurd profit. It so not fair – its just preventing those fans (like myself) who really truly want to be there will all their heart, but can’t because its too damn expensive. Because I’m not a damn company with deep pockets than can spend that kind of cash for the benefit of their customers. If we could get tix for face value, we’d be there. It’s a big difference paying $75 for standing room only tickets than $450 to the stupid head scalpers (not wanting to support the team in their quest for the promised land – just trying to make a buck). Not to mention how expensive the non standing room only tickets are. Sheesh. Its just disgusting.
I suppose its all part of life though, no?
Someday I’ll get over it. But for now, I shall sit and mope, lamenting and mourning my loss. Although is it really a loss if you never actually had it??? I’ll still be supporting the Tigers even if it is from 2000 miles away….and maybe I’ll even buy myself a chick’s jersey……
And we all know that’s not very practical. Especially with a $600 plane ticket on top of that.
Despite knowing that it was unreasonable to spend that much money, I was so so sad. So so upset, knowing that I wasn’t going to be there to be a part of history. Because to me, its not just a game – its part of me, part of my family, part of my history. Baseball represents so much more than just 9 innings and a few beers. My first games were with my dad and my grandpa – and my grandmother played ball for quite a while too (she actually wore Joe Tinker’s pants once – of Tinkers to Evers to Chance. One of my best friends in the world was discovered because of our mutual love for baseball. The world is always somehow a better place when you’re at the ballpark. So not being there – I feel like I’m missing out, you know? I’m missing out on making a great new memory with Pat O’Brien, I’m missing out on history.
You wanna know what really pisses me off??? Ass wipes who buy the tix, then turn around and sell the damn things for an absurd profit. It so not fair – its just preventing those fans (like myself) who really truly want to be there will all their heart, but can’t because its too damn expensive. Because I’m not a damn company with deep pockets than can spend that kind of cash for the benefit of their customers. If we could get tix for face value, we’d be there. It’s a big difference paying $75 for standing room only tickets than $450 to the stupid head scalpers (not wanting to support the team in their quest for the promised land – just trying to make a buck). Not to mention how expensive the non standing room only tickets are. Sheesh. Its just disgusting.
I suppose its all part of life though, no?
Someday I’ll get over it. But for now, I shall sit and mope, lamenting and mourning my loss. Although is it really a loss if you never actually had it??? I’ll still be supporting the Tigers even if it is from 2000 miles away….and maybe I’ll even buy myself a chick’s jersey……
Saturday, October 14, 2006
GOOOOO TIGERS!!!!!!!!!
THEY DID IT! THEY DID IT! We're going to the World Series! WHOOOOO HOOOOOO!!!!!
And here's the man of the hour - the one who sealed the deal and sent us on our way! (photo by getty images - yahoo sports)
Flights will run me about $500 or so - but we have to wait until Monday to see if we can get tickets online ($250 max, each) - otherwise, we would have to pay about $600 each per ticket for nosebleed seats, and I just don't think we can swing that, know what I mean? I probably will be bawling if we can't get tickets, but I just have to tell myself if it wasn't meant to be, it wasn't meant to be........I mean, we still have to have SOME money to pay for our wedding in March, you know?
**sigh** it just sucks my ass to be so practical about this. Who knows if it will happen again? I've had going to the World Series on my life's "to do" list forever......and I don't know if it will happen again with the Tigers. Who knows.......
And here's the man of the hour - the one who sealed the deal and sent us on our way! (photo by getty images - yahoo sports)
Flights will run me about $500 or so - but we have to wait until Monday to see if we can get tickets online ($250 max, each) - otherwise, we would have to pay about $600 each per ticket for nosebleed seats, and I just don't think we can swing that, know what I mean? I probably will be bawling if we can't get tickets, but I just have to tell myself if it wasn't meant to be, it wasn't meant to be........I mean, we still have to have SOME money to pay for our wedding in March, you know?
**sigh** it just sucks my ass to be so practical about this. Who knows if it will happen again? I've had going to the World Series on my life's "to do" list forever......and I don't know if it will happen again with the Tigers. Who knows.......
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