Light in the Darkroom

On the Brink...

2011-07-20T06:39:00.003-04:00

So fellow bloggers and blog readers I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing my crazy and not so crazy thoughts with all of you. I feel at this time the need for reinvention! I will be dissolving this blog over the course of the year and part of 2012. I know tears of sadness, but I will be back promise! I may still write and add things from time to time, but my focus will definitely be my new blog. I will leave the new addy when the new blog is up and running.

Thanks for everything!

Pass The Swiffer Duster...QUICK!!

2011-01-03T11:08:00.003-05:00

Well Happy New Year! I know long time, and I totally did not keep my commitment of reigniting my blogging the past few months, but I am surely going to try my best to keep it up now. I feel like it has become my neglected child, but not to worry!

I hope the new year has all of you doing great, feeling well, and motivated for fabulous-ness. I am not one for resolutions and have never really conformed to the whole idea of stating aloud, the many things that I want, but will not accomplish throughout the year. Instead, I look at what I have completed as small victories and move on from there. I'm totally dreading the gym today simply due to the excess of new-year'ers that will be in there with their 30-day workout plans. Annoyance is coming over me already *think happy thoughts*.

Regardless, if the resolution thing is what you do, good luck, I wish you the best...hopefully you'll make it past January. Just keep it realistic!

Until the next time...

Welcome to Monday...

2010-08-16T08:13:00.004-04:00

Happy Monday! Hope you all had a great weekend! I have to say the weekend was pretty eventful. Saw an old friend that I haven't seen in a while which was great...went to a cookout and I must say it was the most hilarious cookout I have been to in a lonnggg time!! I was thoroughly entertained and the food was pretty good too!

There was one casualty though...my poor cell phone!! Somehow it experienced some water exposure. Fortunately it still comes on and I was able to backup my information on the computer, but as fortune goes, the keyboard is non-functioning. It's like a taunting of sorts, like a cat and mouse games, it still vibrates when I have calls and I can see when people are calling I just can't answer. At first I was thinking oh it's the end of the world I don't have my phone, I can't communicate with people, but now I'm looking at it as a blessing in disguise. I'd rather not be bothered half the time anyway so it's a welcomed break from constantly being connected to the world. Fingers crossed it will dry out!

Hope this week is smooth, until tomorrow...

Dusting off the Shelves...

2010-08-04T08:52:00.004-04:00

It's been a longggg time, I know. I haven't been on here in ages, well maybe not ages, but since April which seems like ages ago to me. Now that summer is starting to wind down, I find myself trying to pull back and piece together some sort of structure that I've lacked since the sun has been roasting us slowly.

I'm going to start writing on here daily again though you may need to give me a week to fully get back into the swing of things. I have many things to share since my absence so hopefully you'll start to tune in again!!!

Toodles for now...

BTW...today is President Obama's 49th birthday!! Happy Birthday Mr. President!!!

Don't Be A Victim...

2010-04-01T06:50:00.004-04:00

I would say Happy April Fool's Day, however I despise it sooo much! I don't think it's funny to have jokes played on you so, I'm steering clear of unnecessary contact with anyone today. If I don't answer your call, don't be offended! Yes, I'm that scared lol...

I ♥ This Commercial

2010-02-17T21:51:00.002-05:00

Okay I'm a day late, but if you knew just how tired and I mean ridiculously exhausted tired I was yesterday, you would completely understand! Not only that, but I still have my Blizzard 2010, or "Snowmageddon" as it has been dubbed by President Obama, pictures to post as well. I have some pretty good shots, if I may so say myself...and look at that, I can!!!

My commercial picks for the week, two from the E*Trade babies cause they're hilarious, the JG Wentworth opera because clearly everyone cannot sing opera, and the Verizon Wireless - AT&T battle wages on, but this time...a little Twilight spoof...

I ♥ This Commercial...a little ketch-up

2010-02-09T05:39:00.001-05:00

I have been tardy with my commercials, so I have a line up for you to make up for lost time...I hope you enjoy!

I love this commercial...it tugs at the heart a little, well at least for an animal lover...I wonder if Sarge feels this way about his bone?!?

These muppets crack me up every time they do a commercial! This one is soo funny because not only are they doing a playground cheer, but the shoe actually ends up on fire at the end...what will they come up with next.

I like this one because the little boy doesn't turn into a brat, he's a future problem solver...watch out world!

Super Bowl XLIV

2010-02-08T19:29:00.006-05:00

I have two very brief comments:

Congrats to the Saints! I'm sure my "son" enjoyed the game since all he ever talks about is Drew Brees.
The half-time show...what the hell was that??? I mean how long do we have to suffer for the wardrobe malfunction?

Fashion Advice from a Non-Fashion Adviser...

2010-02-03T10:41:00.004-05:00

Suede and Water Do Not Mix

I know plenty of you have Uggs...not the waterproof kind that are meant to be slushed around in the snow, but those awful slipper-esque boots that really, too many people own. I have a newsflash for you:

THOSE ARE NOT MEANT TO BE WORN IN SNOW, RAIN, RIVER DANCING, OR ANY OTHER POTENTIALLY WATER HAZARDOUS SITUATION.

Seriously, suede protectant is meant for minor incidents not full on water attacks. Now if you don't think I'm talking to you , that means I probably am!!! It's bad enough to see them year-round even when it's above 90 degrees, but spare me in the inclement weather or at least spare the sheep who gave up his shearling for your "fashion"...we could all benefit from a break...

♥ Love + History ♥

2010-02-01T08:57:00.004-05:00

Happy February!

Welcome to the month of love and history. So many good things for such a short month, but it should prove to be action packed. I hope you enjoyed the weekend snow fall Because apparently we are getting more this weekend. I love snow, but I like snow that matters! I need something during the week so I can stay home not on the weekend when I want to go out and do things.

I have to say this years Grammy's were pretty good and out how much I watched, (the first hour, dvr'd the rest) I enjoyed the performances. I'm not really an awards show watcher, but it was worth my time. I especially enjoyed Pink's performance. The whole in the air twirling melody thing was pretty cool.

Have a productive day...Happy Monday

First Monday

2010-01-04T07:55:00.006-05:00

Well here we are, the first Monday of the new year...the first work day...and surprisingly it doesn't feel as cumbersome as most Monday's do. Today I am focusing on cleaning out my desk. It's never ridiculously junky or filled up with miscellaneous items, but I just like everything from last month to have a place.

It seems Washington sports were in the news this weekend. The inevitable has finally occurred, Redskins head coach Jim Zorn was fired yesterday. Even though the Redskins did horrible this season, I somewhat feel bad for the guy. I don't think there is just a one person change around solution for this team. Everyone plays a part, and some people are just not pulling their weight. My suggestion would be to look at the bigger picture. Coaches are always the fall guy when things go south, but in this case, there are so many other reasons.

On the other side, Gilbert Arenas, who can now be called a flip-flopper, has conflicting stories as to why exactly he had a gun in his locker at Verizon center. Now usually you can smell a bad lie from far away, "I brought the gun here to keep it away from my baby" really??? Considering this is not his first child did he not feel that way about the other two? They're all under the age of 5, so could he not put it up high? Clearly if he brought it to work than it's not for protecting the home. Then the newest story that he actually pulled it on one of his teammates for a gambling debt?!? I just don't understand some of these athletes. You make so much money, maybe you should use some of it for a personal consultant...someone you can tell everything to before you do it so that you stay out of trouble, since obviously your moral compass is a little screwy. Ridiculous!

Happy Monday!

A New Start Begins...

2010-01-02T10:48:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year! We've talked about it and anticipated it and now that it's here...it feels the same as last year! I had been thinking of what it was that I would like to do differently in 2010, but the only thing that has really stood out in my mind is a fresh beginning. That means, letting everything that bothered me in 2009 go...and I mean really letting go of not only situations, but the people that they involved. Life as we know it is really short...too short to be bothered with thoughts, people, and situations that do not mean you well. I just really need to focus on me. I had dinner with a friend last night and we just really talked about putting things into perspective. It's good to be a realist about everything, and to have someone to bounce those ideas around with.

I wish you the very best for this new year and start to a new decade.

When Your Best Just Isn't...

2009-12-28T06:33:00.003-05:00

Here we are a few days away from not only a new year, but the start of a new decade as well and I find myself thinking...a lot. I've been toying with the ideas of nice vs mean and good vs evil when it comes to my interactions with my extended family. Just to sum it up they suck! At the beginning of this year I decided that I would put forth the effort to be a better niece and actually phone regularly and try to recognize them for their birthday's and go to most family events, even if only for a little while if I had other plans. Now at the closing of this year I find myself a bit perplexed and just feeling strangely regarding them. I don't just feel for me though, but my father and sister as well. I know out of the four of us, I am the most sensitive, but I went from anger to just sadness, but why? Why do I allow people who obviously don't care to affect me so? I then start to remember all of the wrongs, which far outweigh the rights, that I shouldn't remember as most of them happened when I was very young. Exhausting. I quit, I'm jumping of the merry-go-round, I refuse to play the game any further.

I wasn't going to make any resolutions for the new year, but now I feel like it I should. I'll have to think about it though...

Happy Monday...

A Few of my Favorite Things...

2009-12-25T00:23:00.003-05:00

Christmas is truly my favorite time of the year. I enjoy the holiday cheer that most people exude, the hustle and bustle about the crisp air, and mostly importantly the celebration of the night Jesus Christ was born. I love it all. Even though it's not going to snow for Christmas, we still have snow on the ground and though it is supposed to ice tonight, hopefully some of the snow will still be visible. With that I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas...and in a few other languages too

Feliz Navidad - Maligayang Pasko - Giang sinh Vui ve - Joyeux Noel - 聖誕快樂 - メリークリスマス -

A Charlie in the Box?

2009-12-24T18:16:00.004-05:00

Heard this song standing in line at Sears last night...oh the memories!!!

Snow Dayz

2009-12-24T07:50:00.005-05:00

I LOVE Snow and finally we had a substantial amount...Here is Blizzard 09' from my eyes.

Sargie getting ready for the snow in his fashionable bomber jacket.

The Christmas trees in the backyard during the snowfall.

Sargie playing in the snow...a little.

One of the many robin's trying to take cover in the now bare trees during the snowfall.

My car underneath the snow.

My mom and squirt shovelling away...I think I was supposed to be helping lol.

The path that we dug for Sarge, so he could move about the backyard freely.

Hardwork always pays!

I ♥ This Commercial: Tis' the Season Edition

2009-12-22T20:06:00.003-05:00

Not that I promote either of these wireless company's because well I'm not with either one of them, but in the battle of the commercials, Verizon clearly has appeal! I laugh and sing along...AT&T you better step it up!

And here's a throw back...hilarious...

I ♥ This Commercial: Tis' the Season Edition

2009-12-15T16:31:00.002-05:00

This commercial is cute...reminds or some trickery I would pull! I especially love the little girl laughing into the pillow on the sofa...

10 Days and Counting

2009-12-14T09:09:00.004-05:00

Hope all of you shoppers out there are partially done with your gift buying. There's only ten more days to go and then Christmas will be here. I'm still holding out hope for a white Christmas, but the temperatures keep going up and down and then back up again, it doesn't look too good.

Anyhow, back to studying...Good luck in your ventures and Happy Monday!!

It Kills Me...(not literally)...

2009-12-08T17:15:00.002-05:00

I absolutely LOVE this song right now...so I'm sharing!! Enjoy!

I ♥ This Commercial: Tis' the Season Edition

2009-12-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

So I stumbled across these commercials and I have not ever seen them on television, however in the first on I love the line: "One foreign yetti hikes with a teddy..." and in the second I love the line: yikes there's the clown...I think clowns are scary anyway so I agree!

And There Used to be Snow...

2009-12-07T20:21:00.003-05:00

Yay how wonderful to have a mini snow event!?! I have to say I prefer snow during the week when there is a possibility to sleep in, but I'll take it any day as opposed to no days at all. It was really pretty to look at...I like to call them wishful snow storms because I wish there was more. I don't like it to snow and disappear :-( none the less we should have more soon as this is just the beginning of winter!!!

I have officially decided that I am not giving Christmas gifts this year. No, I'm no Mrs. Scrooge, but I have been toying around with the thought of a more themed gift giving and have really been thinking of what I can give to my short list of individuals that they would actually use throughout 2010...in essence this means no gift cards (I think that's cheating for people you know!!). I have a few people covered, my immediate family and a couple of youngsters that were on my list, but I still have eight people to think/shop for (that includes myself). I like to be given gifts that reflect me, so I hope to do the same for people on my list.

Happy Shopping!!

P.S. My last week of classes!!!! I'm super excited for that!

I ♥ This Commercial: Tis' the Season Edition

2009-12-01T16:50:00.005-05:00

Keeping with the spirit of the season, I going to do 4 weeks of holiday commercials. This first one is super cute!!!! Talk to the moose....

Thanksgiving: The Aftermath

2009-11-27T19:26:00.004-05:00

I am finally done cooking!!! I need a round of applause for that...I started baking Wednesday after work and just finished cooking the last item maybe an hour ago. I don't want to think about the oven, 350 degrees, or anything that needs an hour to be done. I will speak on my successes and one failure with the Thanksgiving feast this year.

First, the gingerbread and spice cake are both really delicious (unbiased account I have taste testers and they agree!!) I even made butter cream frosting for the spice cake, and I thank Paula Deen for her awesome spice cake recipe, but that frosting....6 cups of confectioners sugar....wayyyyy toooo muchhh!!! I have made a note of it in my recipe book and I'm thinking 3 cups should be enough. After that if it's not sweet I'll wing it. Next was the quiche. I couldn't for the life of me locate my 4 recipes I used in 07' to produce this dish so I was at the mercy of Google to find a good recipe. And I mean GOOD recipe...something that used heavy cream and at least 4 eggs. I found one that was decent and altered it slightly. I ended up with 6 quiches! What am I supposed to do with all of that?? Squirt is going to take one back to the Island with her, I gave my co-worker one, we ate one yesterday...now that I think about it...maybe I'm ok with the 6. I also baked this Amish friendship bread that I received from a friend, but I did not like the way it came out or smelled so I tossed it. It was really weird for me to leave a batter containing milk on the counter for 10 days. It could be that it smelled fine, but all I could smell was the sourness of the milk...it's possible it was all in my head. Today, I made crab dip....and let me just state that I will never ever ever ever EVER use crab meat that contains shells ever again. I spent two hours yesterday and two more hours today picking through to make sure I got all of the shells out only to still find more. Talk about a hair raising experience....argghhhh.

In the midst of it all I have discovered what I really want for Christmas or my birthday, or a "hey just wanted to let you know you rock" gift....a Kitchenaid professional 600 series, 6 quart, bowl lift stand mixer in empire red. I LOVE this beautiful piece of machinery! Just look for yourself...

Isn't it just cherry red perfection??? But alas I think all of my hint dropping is going to fall upon deaf ears. I'll probably end up purchasing it for myself. Which is fine too, but if it were presented to me with a big bow around it...I definitely wouldn't complain!

Outside of the hoopla and grandeur of cooking fantastic goodies, I started thinking of what I am truly thankful for...and yes not just on yesterday, I do visit this topic often. I made a short list...

Health - it is soo important to understand and realize that life is short and with so many different diseases and ailments around, I am thankful to be well and able to do the things that I choose to do. To not have to take multiple medications in order to get out of the bed and get the day started.
Shelter - with the many people that have lost their homes, though some have been fortunate enough to be able to lean on family and friends, there are some who have nowhere to turn. It is their car, a shelter or the streets that they no w call home. I am thankful to have a home. Even though the neighbors SUCK...I am happy to say that I have some.
Friends - not associates, but true friends that I can call about whatever and whenever and just talk, cry, laugh or anything and be accepted and loved for being just who I am. I've come across many people (most this year) who can't just be themselves, it's a persona for every different group of people they come across. I am thankful for the opportunity to let my true colors shine.
Happiness - strange, maybe, but for me, happiness is equally important. Without a light heart, joy or laughter...many of life's tasks I would probably never complete. Being happy intimidates others who are not free to experience this emotion. They complain about everything whether it happened to them or not. I am thankful that through happiness I am able to look at things from two perspectives, getting the whole picture, and seeing the sunlight through the clouds.
Family - even though they drive me crazy every hour of every day, without them...I would be lost. I love them lots the craziness included. They deal with me, which is a big task, mood swings, attitudes, laughter, joy, pain, sorrow...I am still loved the same. I appreciate that sooo much.
Dreams - just being able to dream something and actually fight and try to achieve it. Some people don't poses the drive in life to keep going, persevere through it all and still get back up when you get knocked down. I am thankful to dream uninhibited.

I hope that you all were able to reflect on the many different things we have to be thankful for. I'm sure my list will differ from many in one way or another, but I think even just realizing that you have a lot to be thankful for is more than a 75% start.

Have a Great Weekend!!!

Til Monday.....

Playing A Little Ketch-up...

2009-11-20T19:00:00.003-05:00

Boy has this week really been a whirlwind of events...I am happy to be in the comfort of my home on a Friday night (~insert the grandma jokes here~) especially with thanksgiving around the corner this will truly be one of my only nights to relax for the next week or so! I'm super excited to cook my new experimental items along with a couple of tried and true dishes in the mix. I'll be sure to post some pictures as they come out of the oven!

I'm picking Squirt up on Sunday from the airport and I am now at a gift count of...* drum roll please*....Uno!! They say one is the loneliest number so hey why not leave it at that! I have something big planned for her for Christmas which I believe will dub me the Greatest Sister in All the Land title! Of course I can't tell you because she reads my ramblings from time to time...but it is purely the greatest gift I could think of...Yay Me!!! Maybe the best part of it is it's one of those gifts you get for someone else, but you know that you will get to benefit from it too. Is that selfish?? I think not, especially with the current state of the economy, I would say that's a deal!! I'll even allow you to use my reasoning to justify your "double gift" to others...don't say I never shared anything with you!

Last Sunday, I had the pleasure of doing brunch with some of the girls from my former part-time gig at Aveda. It was a true delight and I hadn't realized that it had been soooo long. Sheesh time really does fly when you get older! I also was able to witness the Amster's baby bump up close....sooo cute! I can't wait for the baby to arrive! I just LOVE other people's kids!!

So I know the next movie in the vampire series came out today and I can admit to see Twilight numerous times just because it was wayyy better than what I had expected...so I want to see New Moon, but I don't want to see it with the crowds, so of course that means I'm going to have to wait...or go during the week at the senior citizen times, of which I may do the latter. Anyhow the point of it all...I cam across this clip from Jimmy Kimmel Live and by no means did I do this on purpose, but there's some Sesame Street action going on in it too...lol....who knew!!

A Few Notes...

2009-11-11T19:51:00.002-05:00

Firstly, I would like to extend my extreme gratitude to any and everyone who has served in the armed forces or are currently serving today. It is a great task and unbelievable selflessness that truly allows a person to put their life on hold and on the line for so many others to fight for the belief of freedom and liberty for all. I stand 110% behind all of those who serve this country with pride and dignity. I hope that you all have done something not just today, but everyday to recognize these individuals. Regardless, of your political beliefs, I hope that you support our troops.

Secondly, Thanksgiving is fast approaching and I have managed to end up as one of the cookers this year. I was asked to make seafood quiche, which I can admit is always an experiment and I totally end up with wayyy more than I plan for. The problem you ask...well I have 4 different recipes that I like certain parts of so, I mix them all together sorta and usually end up with 4-6 pies depending on the pan I use. I am going to buy a tart pan this year so maybe that will cut down on the amount that I end up with. I also am making a surprise dish for my cousin which I can't disclose at the moment in case she reads this! And my own personal challenge of an experimental dessert. I'm thinking gingerbread as one and I have been looking for a really good sweet potato bread/pudding recipe. I have a few contenders, but I may end up combining the recipes on that too. I need to be finalizing these plans soon though as there really isn't too much time left in between now and then. Hopefully no one asks me to make a cake *fingers crossed* I'll do it, but I can't see the bottom of my plate at the moment!

Thirdly, so the gift count. I'm still at lucky number 1 and I haven't really thought about anything else to get either. She'll be here on the 20th or the 21st (can't remember) so I really need to get that under wraps too. I'm feeling the pressure. I'm going to start looking, maybe Friday I promise!!

Happy Hump Day!!

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-11-10T19:32:00.008-05:00

So I can't really say that I necessarily ♥ this infomercial, but I saw it last week and it was really weird, but I watched the whole thing! And yes before you ask, how it plays below is how it plays on TV with all of the mixing included for your entertainment. At the very least you'll laugh and if not in the beginning at least at the end when someones grandma is talking and laughing. I hope I don't see this on TV again!!

And a side note: Today is the actual 40th anniversary of Sesame Street (yes that means you won't have to be subjected to my meandering thoughts of SS childhood living) and if you had the opportunity to click on google today (it's not too late to go) they have the whole gang hanging out around the logo. Yesterday was the Count, but he was never one of my faves so I kinda skipped over his segment. And in all fairness I think I skipped over Elmo too (shame on me). I'm not a fan of him either but I'll post their pictures below in case you missed them. Although Zoey has an Elmo Live and he does get his party on (Elmo says get on up...Elmo says get on up...Elmo says get on down...Elmo says get on down...) Enjoy!

Trash Can Living

2009-11-07T20:51:00.002-05:00

Can I just say that I am LOVING Sesame Street Week on Google. Today is none other than my favorite character....Oscar the Grouch! Why the little green furry creature that lives in the garbage can makes me smile, I really can't say, but awesome to see him!!!

Friday...Woot Woot!!!

2009-11-06T08:23:00.004-05:00

Welcome Friday! Not much happening this weekend. I have an exam I HAVE to study for. I pretty much know the information, but it's the minor details that I have to work out. Squirt's birthday is tomorrow and I am supposed to giving her 19 gifts for her 19th birthday and so far I have a grand total of *drumroll please*.....1!!! Round of applause people please lol. What am I doing, I have no clue. I don't know what else to get her. I really have to put my thinking cap on for this one. I wish I could just give her the one gift and $18, but I already know that's not going to fly :-)

And of course go to google! It's Sesame Street's 40th Anniversary and today google has Bert and Ernie in for the "O's". I can't help but to think about the rubber ducky song...

Rubber Ducky your the one

You make bathtime lots of fun...

Jump into some leaves and have a Great Weekend!!!

Click Again (for today only)

2009-11-05T07:51:00.001-05:00

Go to google! It's Sesame Street's 40th Anniversary and today google has cookie monster taking a bite out of google which just happens to be a giant chocolate chip cookie!! And yes at 26 I'm still just as excited about sesame street lol!

Click (for today only)

2009-11-04T09:53:00.003-05:00

Go to google! It's Sesame Street's 40th Anniversary and google has big bird's legs as the "l" in the logo. There's always something interesting!

Happy November!

2009-11-02T09:32:00.003-05:00

Wow, November already eh? It doesn't even feel like October existed, at least to me anyway. I'm guessing it's time for me to prepare for the holidays. That means, cakes to bake, cards to write, gifts to buy, and limited rest to get. I'm pseudo looking forward to the next 2 months, but I'm going to write out a plan so that I remain stress free (or at least try to).

Today is a bittersweet day. My brother would have been 34 today. I miss him terribly, but it doesn't hurt as much anymore. It's been 8 years now and even though I may get a little teary eyed here and there, I've let go of the anger that went along with it. I can look back and remember the good times, the fights and the words he used to make up. The memories good and bad make me smile. So today while I wish him a lovingly happy 34th, I'll reflect on it all, even the mischievous times when I used to get him in trouble!

Happy Birthday Avery, you are truly loved and deeply missed!

Update

2009-10-27T20:29:00.003-04:00

My father's surgery went really well...he should be home sometime this weekend *fingers crossed* He's pretty drugged up right now and only stays awake for little spurts of time, but the surgeons are hopefully that this last surgery should alleviate a lot of pain that he was experiencing. It's kinda tough seeing someone you look up to and look at as indestructible when your a wee little one, in pain and actually realizing those visions have met reality and no man is "super" on Earth.

Thank you for all of the prays and well wishes, they mean more than you know!

Car Dreams and Hot Rod Wishes

2009-10-27T09:24:00.004-04:00

In lieu of the current economic state of the United States, I have a new found respect for anything that was made in America. It's different to hear statistics on the news regarding the rising unemployment rate, but to actually know families that it's affecting is a totally un-real experience. With that stated I would like to call this my top most wanted American rides. Foreign cars will always have an appeal to the masses, based on past reliability, and current/future technologies, but don't count domestics out yet. Every time I see an upgraded model, the features just get better and better. I'm not trying to tell you (or maybe I am...send it back...send it back!!!) trade in the BMW 6 series or Mercedes E-class with infrared technology, but you may find that all of those creature comforts that appealed to you when first purchasing, you don't even utilize. You might actually be pleasantly surprised!

*Disclaimer - No Fords were harmed in the making of this list...we just don't like them!

1. Dodge Challenger -

I absolutely LOVE and I really do mean LOVE this car!! It is hot and an added bonus is I get to see it every week on NCIS: LA...it just purrs every time it's started. Dreaminess! Too bad no one I know has one :-(

2. Chevy Camaro -

Old school body...new school technology. I love this car too, though not as much as the Challenger but it is pretty close!

3. Chevy Tahoe -

My Daddy has a Chevy SUV and since I basically drove his SUV and my little car when I was learning how to drive I got spoiled. Nothing compares to a riding up high and being able to see everything. It rides like a car, very smooth and easy to operate the controls. Also has bucket seating in the second row, Squirt and I loved it!

4. Cadillac STS -

I like to get my grown woman on from time to time and this ride is definitely a go getter. There isn't a smoother ride out there!

5. Cadillac CTS -

Nice car, not better than the STS in my opinion, but dad and Squirt like this one more.

6. Buick Lacrosse -

You want luxury comparable to the foreign cars...you got it! This car has all and more, just take your pick!

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-10-27T06:21:00.001-04:00

I am not endorsing AT&T at all, but I love this commercial...it's so cute!

Bring It On...

2009-10-26T09:00:00.002-04:00

Have you ever had a week that you just felt the need to revert back to childhood and kick, scream, scratch and fall out on the floor turning in circles? Thus my week of pure hell has come to a close and not a moment too soon! I literally woke up Thursday feeling the need to have a lovely glass of wine to get me through the first part of the day. I know there are plenty of personalities that we encounter on a daily basis, but I feel like I hit the jackpot last week; from stuck up and rude, to ignorant and just disrespectful. Maybe somethings in the water or maybe in the air, I don't know, but this week has to be better.

My father is having his 3rd and hopefully last surgery on his spinal cord tomorrow. He seems to be pretty relaxed this time around. I'm a little nervous, but things are expected to go well. I know it's going to be a longer surgery than his previous ones. I'm prayerful.

Oh and in other news, Sarge thinks he's super dog and for some reason loves to chase the deer in the woods behind the house. I made Sarge fashion forward and bought him this chartreuse colored collar and what does he do...snapped it in half on a rampage after the deer! I'm running out of colors! I try to give him a different look every time we buy a new one so we have already had black, red, purple, blue (two shades) and now green. Since he is dark brown with tan shading, he looks really nice in the red and the green. I thought about getting him pink, but my father may have an issue with that lol. Maybe I can find an orange one, that would be lovely because it's my fav color and also looks good with brown. I'll be sure to post a picture of the new accessory.

Yesterday we had family brunch and football at my aunt's in Silver Spring and let me just say we had sooo much food it was ridiculous. Of course since we're from the country we had fish and grits, but not just fish, we had spot, croaker, black bass, lean and perch! I was soo full from croaker and lean that I couldn't even get any perch :-( There was also eggs, biscuits, bacon, sausage, salmon cakes, cinnamon buns, doughnuts wine and juice. I love breakfast so that was great for me! We watched the Pittsburgh/Minnesota game together and I just love talking trash, but I was worried a few times though, but my boys worked it out and gave Minnesota their first L of the season....oh well!! I suppose family's not bad all the time, but don't quote me on saying that!

Happy Monday!

And Then There Was HEAT

2009-10-20T07:40:00.003-04:00

Finally someone had pity on us lowly workers and decided to turn the heat on in the building. Thank You! I am the first to admit I hate being hot and am more of a fan of AC as opposed to heat, but as much as I love winter, I would like to leave it outside! It's hard typing with frozen fingers ya know?

Moving forward, since it is ghoul and goblin season I was thinking of dressing good ole' Sarge up as something this year. I haven't quite thought about it too deeply yet, but it will definitely have to be something that he can't finaggle his way out of too easily. Maybe an Elmo, or a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle, or a Moo Cow?? I'll post a picture once we decide what he will transform into!

I would also like to extend a HUGE Congratulations to Amster and Eddie on their expected baby joy coming in March! I am soo ecstatic!! This will be baby #3 in my circle of friends. My mother is pressed to have a grandchild, but I told her I would get a puppy and she could watch him anytime she wants....of course that didn't fly too well, LOL. Oh well, maybe I can borrow a baby for a day and it will make her feel better :-)

Have a great day!

Ahhh Mid-Week

2009-10-15T07:12:00.005-04:00

Well well well the cool weather is finally here, whether it's here to stay that's yet to be seen, but I'm enjoying the crispness for now.

~Tuesday I had an exam in my astronomy class and I was quite entertained. I always find humor when there are multiple choice selections that make absolutely no sense. I then wonder though do people really pick these answers? I hope not, you would really have to be crazy to think, for instance:

A crater is created when an asteroid hits the Earth, melts down into a pool and then drains down into the Earth leaving the hole.

~I just found out the National Geographic Museum is going to have an exhibit of Terra Cotta warriors, guardians of China's first emperor starting 11.19.09. I am sooo excited and I can't wait. If anyone is interested in going, let me know!

~The Journey....Day 15, well in progressing I have a noted change. Reconnecting with a truly great and dear friend. At first, I was a little apprehensive since we hadn't talked the last year or so, but we picked right back up where we left off soooo I'm super excited!

Enjoy this rainy weather!

Old Bay...Oh My!!!

2009-10-07T08:22:00.004-04:00

Sitting at my desk this morning, listening to the radio, and if you live in the area you've probably heard the Washington Post commercials that run down some of the topics discussed in the paper for the day and to my utter surprise, Old Bay seasoning has an article!!! My fingers started typing super fast so that I could read about my favorite seasoning. Old Bay is celebrating its 70th anniversary and as a tribute, there is a separate section to discuss creative ways to use Old Bay because of course, it's not just for seafood - I thought I would list the things I mix Old Bay with:

Grits - I know you may find this weird but if you try it...I'm guaranteeing you'll love it!! The key is to mix it in the water before you bring it to a boil and add the grits. They will have an orange-ish tint!
Scrabbled Eggs - Only a little and some pepper jack cheese.
Ground Turkey - Depending on where it's getting cooked, on the grill is a definite yes!
Chicken - If it's being fried or broiled
Vegetables - If they are being roasted in the oven (but not asparagus)
Ketchup - To eat with french fries
Ground Beef - Occasionally

Something missing? Yes, I do not like Old Bay on seafood even though it started off as a seafood seasoning because I find it too overpowering! I prefer to taste the seafood as opposed to the seasoning and since most seafood has a light flavor any way, garlic and pepper with a splash of lemon work just fine for me.

Happy Hump Day!!

Mon-D'

2009-10-05T06:34:00.003-04:00

Happy Monday! My allergies are really having fun...yesterday was the lovely post-nasal drip, today is the congested, I dare you to make any sudden moves head pressure. I really don't know which is better/worse.

Yesterday was a good day of football. The home team (Redskins) won...finally, although the 1st half was sad and pathetic. The Cowboys lost to one of my favorite teams...the Broncos (4-0)! And my lovely Steelers are finally back in the winners circle. My son's (not really my son) team the Saints are 4-0 as well. I'd say not just good...it was a great day of football.

I definitely have a laundry list of things to complete today, so I wish you the best Monday ever!

Have a productive day!

B-Aqua

2009-10-04T08:12:00.004-04:00

From our excursion to the Baltimore Aquarium last weekend...

Zoey...being Zoey...busy as usual!

The Journey...Day 2...

2009-10-02T07:45:00.005-04:00

*Disclaimer*

I have been an absentee blogger and I find myself saying this more and more. With school starting my time has not been my own, however I am going to make an effort to write at least 3 to 4 times a week.

Welcome to October!! I cannot believe that we have less than 3 months to go before the start of 2010. I have no idea where this year has gone. Although I have completed many things I set out to do this year, I have a feeling that I'm only at the half way point and the pressure is on! This month is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, make sure you try to do something to support the cause.

My personal goal for the month is to try and be more understanding of other people. I didn't do such a good job of this last month and it's really hard to see other's perspectives when you already have in your mind how a task or operation is supposed to go. I feel like I am this constant art project - meaning pieces of me are continually reinvented...I've been sanded, recolored, redrawn, rethought, and still I continue to evolve with each new process. It is a very difficult for me to step outside of this box I call "home" and be accepting of other's ideas, whether good or bad, but at the same time if it means in 3 months and 13 days that at 27 (yuck I hate the way that sounds) I am a more accomplished and well rounded individual then, I am very humbled and appreciative of the experience. I guess it really does take almost losing something really great to make the light bulb turn on...Lesson Learned.

Happy Friday and Enjoy this Cool Crisp Fall Air!!

PS. My wish for Chicago to be the 2016 Olympics location has officially been silenced...Rio anyone?

Here Fishy Fishy

2009-09-14T10:44:00.002-04:00

A rock fish from the weekend's fishing trip...

Happy Monday!!

Baby Z Turns 1!!

2009-09-10T06:33:00.001-04:00

Time has flown and the little ladybug is now walking and talking and a whole year older!

What Does Your Garden Grow?

2009-09-09T18:59:00.006-04:00

Apparently a giant sized caterpillar that likes to eat green peppers! Who knew!!

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-09-08T19:33:00.003-04:00

So this isn't really a commercial (a little false advertising on my part!), but it spoofs one of the songs I like right now so I thought I would add it to share...It's really cute!

Opinions, Options and Waiting

2009-09-02T10:01:00.002-04:00

So the wait continues...I have been confirmed for two classes, but I am still waitlisted for the others. At first I was 1, 6, 13 and 16...then later I had received the #1 position class and moved up on the waitlist to 5, 7, and 11. Yesterday, I received the #7 position class and moved to 4 and 9 for the other two. Today I'm feeling grateful to be in 2 out of 4 and am now thinking of dropping the other two...I'll decide on that later.

I had a very opinion based conversation yesterday. I have ill feelings toward the whole situation just because the opinions of others should not be forced upon me or to be made to feel as though they represent factual information. Everyone has an opinion on who I should be, where I should be, what I should be doing. I'm trying not to be affected by it all, but it's very disheartening to hear certain words or terms applied to yourself. From all of it though decisions must be made...I'm unsure of which path I am going to take at the moment.

My hopes for a positive upturn starting today seem very gray and dim...

What a Week...

2009-09-01T07:41:00.004-04:00

Well, first and foremost Happy September! Isn't this weather just wonderful?!? I love autumn air, even if it's not officially autumn yet, I can't tell!! I know you summer folks are not enjoying it at all, but hey as much as I burned up in August...you should have no complaints what so ever!

My week is already off to a bang and it actually started with the ending of last week into this week...

Saturday - Zoey's 1st birthday. I was the official photog for the event however it was soooo hot I had just gotten my hair done, but off course it doesn't look like it now. I also received a letter from my school saying that I had to turn paperwork in no later than the first day of class, which by the way was Monday (yes, yesterday).

Sunday - well Sunday wasn't too bad it was a good day, I got a lot accomplished and had dinner with a couple of friends. I like to think of Sunday as the quiet before the storm.

Monday - Had to go to school to turn in paperwork. Well I started at the bldg where the office requesting papers was originally located only to find out they were relocated completely and I do mean COMPLETELY across campus due to renovations. If you ever been to UMD and you hear Susquehanna...you cringe. The bldg is randomly placed behind south campus housing/dining and considering I was semi north campus when I received the information, it was not a happy walk.

Tuesday (today) - I am sooo tired and apparently it shows because just randomly sitting here at my desk I happen to look at my feet and discover I not only have on two different shoes, but they are totally different colors. Argghhh how in the world did I do that???

Hopefully beginning with hump day, my week begins to turn for the better!

A Stormy Weekend Round-up

2009-08-24T09:15:00.003-04:00

Happy Monday!

Since we had torrential downpours Saturday thanks to Bill, my weekend ended up being pretty uneventful. I did puppy-sit a Yorkie on Sunday, Deano, he was pretty entertaining. It's been so long since I have been around a puppy I forgot how much they sleep! Cute little doggie, but not my taste. Oh and we had cake and ice cream for my grandmother on Saturday for her b-day.

Also, befitting that this is hurricane season, the weather channel has a hurricane tracking page which is very interactive and informative. I like watching and learning about the wonders of mother nature; hurricanes, volcanoes, earthquakes, tornadoes, and tsunami's. I can remember being a little girl and having all of these books on volcanoes. Anyhow, check out the page if your interested in seeing the tracked information for the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans from this year and years prior.

A Little Cleaning of Sorts...

2009-08-11T05:31:00.005-04:00

I've been thinking that I need to do a little contact clean-up. I have way too many numbers for people that I just do not talk to. Maybe I'll just start randomly calling folks, but more likely than not I'll just hit delete. Hopefully none of them will call me so I won't have to do the embarrassing "who is this" spill. I hate saying that, it just seems as though if they have my number I should have theirs. Ok so now that I have talked myself into possibly not deleting anything, lol, maybe I'll just go through my 1,000+ emails *sigh*

Happy Tuesday!

{commercial later}

Satisfaction Guaranteed

2009-08-10T08:40:00.005-04:00

First off Happy Monday...I can't believe it is yet again a Monday, but I am blessed and happy see another one!

Next, my apologies for being an absentee blogger the past couple of weeks, I've been pretty busy. I promise to do better!

We had the office MWE (model work environment) event on Wednesday and when I tell you I was excited that it went extremely well, that is an understatement. I pretty much planned and shopped for the event myself as my help was indisposed :-/ which didn't really turn out too bad, but I went to the store at least 3 days in a row. I have never cleaned so much chicken in my life, and might I add that I HATE cleaning chicken...that is the worst animal to clean. I definitely cannot clean chicken and eat it the same day, bad bad thoughts! Aside from that making the burgers was pretty simple and the side dishes was pretty quick too. I was really glad that everyone showed up, some with kids in tow and some that hadn't even said they were coming! I would definitely call it a very successful MWE.

I am taking on a project for a friend of mine. I hope to have it done as a Christmas gift as I'm not sure how long it's going to take to complete, but I'm excited!! I will try to show you pictures as I put it all together, but they will be limited as she is a reader.

I also have a thought on the "Cash for Clunkers" program. While initially $4500 sounds like an awesome reward for a car that you no longer want, or may still want, but figure you can get a better one - please weigh your options. You'd be giving up a low insurance, no car note vehicle for a full coverage, 3-5 year monthly bill and maybe only 3-5 mpg increase in gas mileage (which still depends on how you drive). Unless your car is dead to the world, it doesn't sound like such a great deal to me, but to each its own.

Musings for Monday

2009-08-03T06:00:00.005-04:00

Good Happy Monday Morning!

First, It's that time again...one of the best times of the year...SHARK WEEK on Discovery!!

Secondly, It's August...that means new and exciting things to come...just wait and see!

Lastly, I pose a few question to you, probably more rhetorical than not, and I mostly know the answers already, but humor me...

~ When good things happen to/for good people why can't we be happy for them?

~ Why do we feel the need to one up someone else?

~ Why does competition exist between friends?

~ Why do certain individuals feel that what they have is better than anyone else and if someone else obtains a similar object, the said object then becomes useless or no longer held on the edestal it was once placed?

Taaa Daaa!!!!

2009-07-30T19:43:00.004-04:00

I have a signature!!! I'm super ecstatic I have a "mark" to leave!

P.S. Amster....here is a pic of Sargie-poo, there are a few more if you visit my older post from this month. My faves by far are the ones with his duckie!

I ♥ This Commercial (Sorta)

2009-07-28T19:57:00.007-04:00

Well this isn't really a commercial per say...more of a farewell to dare I say it...I just may...aww what the hay...you may hate me for this * ah hem (clearing throat)* Political Barbie...which may in all actuality be an insult to Barbie! (I hope no Republicans take offense, but clearly you shouldn't want to claim this one either :-/)

My Name Is...

2009-07-28T05:28:00.005-04:00

Since my dear Sargie can not speak for himself I will make this declaration for him...

My name is Sarge and I have a problem....

I like to steal people's food from them...

It first started with the filet my human mom fixed for her dinner....

The latest incident involved my eating of a burger and fries before my human sister Squirt could eat it....

Even though they gave me a burger too, I wanted more....

I don't know why I have this problem....

Must be the dog in me!

Sarge is the official hamburgular...and he moves soo damn fast you don't realize what's going on until it's too late....bad bad doggie!!

♥ If my life was not full of daily shenanigans I would be awfully bored♥

The Aftermath...

2009-07-22T13:57:00.006-04:00

Remember the cute ducky that I bought for Sarge and I told you it looks nothing like it does here? Well as promised here he is...de-stuffed and a bit turned inside out...poor ducky I guess he really didn't stand a chance! For some reason Sarge loves all of his froggy toys but everything else...down the tube!

Zoo-Ganza

2009-07-20T10:29:00.007-04:00

Well Sunday, I actually stuck to the plan and made it to the zoo! My feet are kindly thanking me today though, note to self, cute does not equal comfort EVER. I have to say it's been a few years since I have been since the story usually goes...I think about the zoo and then I let summer skip on out of here without ever getting around to it. Surprisingly, for me, to even want to go anywhere in the summer considering I hate being hot, but the weather was rather inviting so I thought what the hay...let's go. I feel like I saw more animals than I have seen maybe because it's usually too hot or too cold for them to be out and active, but everyone seemed to be taking in the breeze and relaxing. I have pictures to share and I can say that I enjoyed myself! I did not see the panda's because the line was really just too long. I may go back and see them later in the summer, but that will have to be the only thing I go to see. I of course saw the monkeys, one of my favorites, but my one of my other favorites was out and just enjoying himself immensely, the lion. I ♥ lions...maybe because they are at the top, but they are just so regal and gorgeous to behold. I had to give him his own slide show!

Happy Monday and Enjoy!!

Attack of the 'Tude

2009-07-16T10:35:00.004-04:00

It hasn't even reached noon yet, but I have reached all sorts of levels of attitude awareness today. For the life of me I cannot begin to understand why it is that "certain" people always have to be in control of everything...we all have these types...

Mr. Know It All - well the name says it all...I know it all and you know nothing! Even if he is wrong he is right. If it's your job he can most certainly do it better.

The Exaggerator - if it can be embellished it will be...even if it can't they will make it so big and unbelievable that you may actually start believing it.

Ms. Perfect - everything she does is perfect...closely resembles Mr. Know It All, but will definitely not try to do your job, she'll just tell you how you should have done it.

The Passer - If you looking for this one to take responsibility...look elsewhere.

The Do Nothing - If it envolves lifting a finger don't expect it to be done by this one.

There are more, but considering the type of way I'm feeling right now...this is a good start. I am glad that this week is almost over.

On a lighter note...I bought Sarge a ducky at PetsMart a couple of weeks ago and I have a couple of pictures to share. I will take a picture of what the poor duck looks like now and post it tonight...but these were his better days...

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-07-16T05:47:00.000-04:00

My Tuesday commercial has turned into a Thursday event this week, but not to fret I promise it was worth the wait!!

Picture Perfect

2009-07-15T21:00:00.006-04:00

I got to see my favorite baby in all the land twice this weekend and of course my trusty not soo dusty camera was along with me. Of all the pictures I actually have four favorites this time around. Since Zoey is getting older now, (10 months!!) she is truly a busy body and very expressive...but admittedly it's hard to get pictures of her because I believe she has perfected her speed crawling!

Enjoy!

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-07-07T06:00:00.000-04:00

Realization

2009-07-06T06:16:00.002-04:00

Happy July, I'm 6 days late in wishing you well for the second half of the year, but better late than never as they say (whoever "they" may happen to be!!)

So being that this is the second half of the year it would be fitting to have some sort of goals in place. Well being me, I actually do have a few and today marked the beginning of one...I have always had this feeling of incompleteness when it comes to analyzing my life as a whole. I just feel as though there is something more that I should be contributing to this world and that I am missing my calling for this unknown path. As often as I say this I have never really looked into how to accomplish this goal until, well, today. This is my main goal for the remainder of the year....wish me luck! I'll try to give you monthly updates and maybe more frequently, but it is all dependent upon how this path develops before me.

Hope you enjoyed some sort of fireworks show to celebrate the 233rd birthday of this wonderfully beautiful country!

Happy Monday!

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-06-30T19:38:00.000-04:00

Friday Random-ness

2009-06-26T07:44:00.015-04:00

A lot has transpired this week...from the metro rail accident to the passing of Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson. It's still a little hard to believe that MJ is no longer here. We have been singing and dancing to his songs since yesterday evening...just a state of shock, but time is promised to no one. It really just makes the statement "...live life to the fullest..." a little louder. Condolences to all those who have lost someone this week.

Wednesday, Jasmine and I ventured out to the garden across the street from my window at work to check out the sunflowers. If you don't know...SUNFLOWERS are my favorite flowers!! They just make me feel happy and cheery, and not to mention the giant ones are just amazing to look at. I heard from a co-worker that the garden is going to be replaced with a memorial for... ok I can't quite remember so it's either Roosevelt, Ford or another President, I just can't put my finger on it right now. Anyhow the point is we try to enjoy it every year that it's still around since we've been hearing rumors of the memorial coming soon for the last couple of years.

I also have a picture of Joey, our resident groundhog! He comes out often when Sarge (the dog) is not around...I'm not sure what it is that he eats in the backyard but he's hilarious to watch.

Father's Day Recap

2009-06-25T08:36:00.000-04:00

In my family we have a tradition of preparing the birthday, anniversary, father's or mother's day meal of that particular persons choosing. Sooo when I asked my father what he would like to eat for Father's Day his unsurprising answer - a T-bone! I then became faced with options, where exactly was I going to by this T-bone? He started talking about the T-bones he saw at Costco they were 3 for $30, but I didn't want to go to Costco to get a steak. No offense to Costco, but I wanted a prime cut of beef as this was his only request and I wanted to find the best steak I could, I am a daddy's girl after all...so we needed QUALITY!! He then started talking about the Giant and how they may have some, but have any of you seen the steak selection at Giant? The meat is sooo then and the price is sooo high I knew I wasn't going there either. So I guess you're wondering where did I end up...well I went to my favorite store - Whole Foods Market! I chose Whole Foods for a number of reasons...

I know they have a butcher in the store

They have a huge selection of meats

I could get prime quality beef

I ♥ Whole Foods

When I arrived at the meat counter, they were 2 options of T-bones. They had Prime T-bones and the had Dry-aged Prime T-bones. Unclear of what exactly dry-aged meant I had to ask the guy to explain the difference and in his opinion which would yield a better taste. When I think dry-aged I'm thinking like drying the meat as in making beef jerky which is apparently the wrong impression. I ended up getting the dry-aged T-bone which was actually a porterhouse because there was more meat on the little side than what a T-bone cut would allow. That steak was $31...yes one steak $31...it was $19.99 a pound, but it's Father's Day so what the hay and as the worker at Whole Foods said..."Nothing says love like a good piece of beef!" For the rest of us, I prepared shrimp, scallops and broccoli over linguine with alfredo sauce. I took a stab at searing scallops and I think for the first try they turned out well, but I ended up just sauteing the rest of them.

Here's the proof!

These are the results of my attempt to sear scallops

This is the T-bone (actually porterhouse) prior to cooking, with the seasonings rubbed in

The results after being broiled

The shrimp, scallop and broccoli linguine with alfredo sauce

Tragic...

2009-06-23T08:11:00.003-04:00

I would like to express my condolences and prayers for the the families that lost loved ones in the metro train accident yesterday. Words cannot and will never replace them in your hearts. I also would like to express well wishes for those that were injured in the incident as well.

Here is a link to the Washington Post

(no commercial today.)

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T16:53:00.002-04:00

Hopefully you dad's out there are kicked back and relaxed!

For the Weekend...

2009-06-19T05:49:00.006-04:00

My weekend is not as full as the past two weeks (horray!!!) have been so I'm feeling stress free! Today is my early day so I am off at 11a and then it's to the grocery store. I am making 2 cakes for a friend of mine. She is trying to talk me into the baking business, but I really have to think about that some more. I don't mind baking, but being under a time constraint and actually having to bake more the occasional cake here and there is a big undertaking. I'm trying to decide before the holidays come around if that really something I want to do. Saturday I'm visiting my friend I haven't seen in at least a year, that will be fun and exciting we have soooo much to catch up on. I also am thinking about finishing my museum tour of the American History museum, but that depends on the timing of my morning. Sunday is Father's Day! I haven't planned a thing for my daddy. I know shame on me, but he was supposed to be having surgery and so technically I didn't have to do anything too extravagant, however is was postponed and so now I need to come up with something. I feel like I'm a bad daughter...I keep making plans for Sunday and forgetting that it's Father's Day. Hmmm what to do?!? I also need to get my dirty and I mean DIRTY car washed and finish filling out some paperwork. I can't believe half the year is gone already...I feel like I haven't accomplished much...I suppose it's time to kick it into gear!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Once Upon A Watery Wednesday

2009-06-18T06:09:00.005-04:00

Yesterday morning was one of those morning's that I wish I had stayed in the bed. Unfortunately hitting the snooze button for 30 minutes did not deter my determination for joining the work world, I got on up and got ready for my venture into work. Boy do I wish I stayed home, one of these days I'm actually going to listen to myself, lol. Anyhow, I get to work insanely early, 5:30a, and it's usually just me tinkering around for about 15 minutes alone. I walked into the side door looking at the floor and I noticed that the carpet was wet...soaked actually, in front of the copy machine...I'm thinking since the piece of junk hasn't worked in a couple of weeks anyway and that something else happened to it. Ha was I wrong...I looked up and there was this stream of water flowing from the ceiling onto the machine. The first thing I thought, this is not happening...and I continued to my desk. The whole I told you so, you should have still been sleep started playing in my head. If you don't know how hard it is to find help before 6a let me tell you...VERY DIFFICULT! Needless to say my headache began shortly after and continued to grow as the day went on. Apparently the nitwits who renovated the building did not seal the sprinkler pipes with the correct materials, hence any of them at any time could spring a leak. With that knowledge...tomorrow I will be taking most of my personal things on my desk home with me! I would hate to come in and see a river at my desk and everything on it ruined. Needless to say the copy machine should be finished, low and behold the stupid thing still comes on. It's bittersweet though...we got it less than a year ago, but it never functioned correctly anyway so about 50% of our hopes of a new machine may still be possible.

Anyhow last night we took a friend out to dinner for their birthday in Annapolis. I haven't been to Annapolis in at least 10 years or more, sad I know, but I actually forgot about the things out there. It looks really nice around there now and although it seems like it took for ever to get down rte 50, but the highlight....the new Whole Foods Market. I think that is the best one I have been in yet. Definitely will be going back, but I have to take Chef Squirt so she can start cooking for us. I need to see if she really learned something in Rhode Island last year!

Well back to work...Happy Thursday!

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-06-16T06:00:00.001-04:00

Although the, ahh hmm, Lakers (yuck)won the NBA Championship, I'll allow Kobe to grace my blog this one time because the commercial is funny...

When Good Intentions...

2009-06-15T20:44:00.002-04:00

Oh this story tugged at my heart a tad. The little youngster had great intentions, but he just didn't know how to quite go about them.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Manic Monday

2009-06-15T06:04:00.006-04:00

Happy Monday! I am pleased that rain is not in the forecast until later in the week and the weather will be in the 70's for most of it. I was a tardy blogger last week...tsk tsk. I am back on track this week and I'll be writing away as usual, well just as the last month went! This weekend was pretty laid back. Family Fun day was rescheduled due to the saturated lawn, which is great because I don't like outdoor activities all that greatly, but I am hoping the new date does not bring crazy temperatures and humidity (insert yucky face!)

I have plenty of things to catch up on...I should correct that, plenty of things to complete since I took the weekend off.

So.....

Until Tomorrow!!

Friday...

2009-06-12T05:07:00.004-04:00

One of the few times that I am actually too exhausted to be really excited for Friday. I am happy it's here but considering the wealth of emotions I have experienced this week...I'm ready for sleep, but of course with the weekend comes more and more things to do. I was privy to lots of information this week most of it sad and depressing. I'm hoping for more "sunny days" for the weeks that follow, but it just seems as though everything is in limbo at the moment. I'm sure all of this sounds like I'm speaking in circles, but this is how all of the thoughts are roaming through my head.

I'm definitely taking a nap ASAP after work...

Happy Friday!

Under the Knife

2009-06-11T05:30:00.003-04:00

Today is surgery day for my father. Hopefully this will be the last one he has to endure and although his back will never be 100% again...if it could be 85% that would be awesome. We have our prayers ready and our fingers crossed.

Love you Daddy!

UPDATE: Surgery has been postponed for a later date...

Class of 09'...

2009-06-08T20:07:00.000-04:00

I am soooooo tired...this weekend was sooooo busy and it continues....

Yesterday was my little cousin Jasmine's graduation. I am soo proud of her for completing this vital first step into the future. I wish her many successes in life...her path hasn't been lined with gold but she is a fighter and continues to shine throughout it all.

For some reason her school thought it would be "FUN" to graduate them from DAR Constitution Hall in DC. The worst idea so far this year! Terrible terrible terrible location because:

Graduation did not start until 2:30p so when it was over we were entangled with commuters leaving their jobs

Parking was not close and considering it was close to 90 and humid, walking with a cap and gown was the pits

Most importantly her school is in Silver Spring, what happened to UMD as the prime graduating location?

None of that really matters anymore because it's over, but it really mattered yesterday when I was caught up with the masses of people. I'm so proud of J...she is the last of the children in our MD family to graduate high school. That really makes me feel old, agghh, but I digress.

On the way to silver spring I saw this sculpture. I know absolutely nothing about it, but it looked interesting and we were at a red light so I took the picture. It's on 16th street near Rock Creek Park if anyone knows...enlighten me please!

Getting Hooked...

2009-06-03T16:44:00.002-04:00

I have just recently discovered YouTube...I know I know get all of your jokes, laughs and slander in, it's only been around since...I don't know...FOREVER, but like they say slow and steady wins the race! Anyhow on to the point...

I was listening to a Jordin Sparks song (save the jokes, I like her) and I came across this song she performed on AI. It still gives me goosebumps so I'm sharing the feeling!

Morality Check Please!

2009-06-03T07:17:00.003-04:00

Back in November my next door neighbors experienced a house fire the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Luckily no one was home, but they lost everything. The wonderful world of home insurance reared it's ugly head and told them that although they had been waiting months, they would have to wait 6 more before they could start renovations. Unhappy with this answer, (as most would be) Mr X (no name disclosure!) started doing the renovations himself. He put up the drywall, painted, got the electricity and water turned back on, new windows, new door and yesterday they started replacing the siding.

Imagine the shock and udder disgust to find that someone stolen their lawn mower, edger and weed-whacker from the shed this past week. And on top of that, one of the neighbors witnessed the act, didn't call anyone or say anything about it and apparently it was one of the neighbors kids who stole the equipment. There are so many levels of wrong in this situation that I don't even know how to begin to address them. Talk about having no conscience, I don't understand why stealing happens in the first place, but to steal from someone who you witnessed lose everything they owned.

Truly Disgusting.

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-06-02T17:43:00.000-04:00

Very Creative!

American History

2009-06-02T06:30:00.005-04:00

Took a side trip to the National Museum of American History yesterday. The museum had been under a remodeling for a while and opened maybe the earlier part of this year or late last year, regardless it looks great and is HUGE. I went to see the I Do Solemnly Swear: Photographs of the 2009 Inauguration and completely got sidetracked. There are sooo many wonderful exhibits to see (and sooo many tourists) that it was literally impossible to see it all in the short time frame I had. But I have a museum day planned for later this month so I'll explore the rest of the exhibits then. I did take some pictures while touring, and yes I am one of those crazy people who takes pictures through glass! Although I'm not as crazy as to turn the flash on while trying to shoot through glass, but some of the shots have strange glows due to the lighting in some of the cases. I will try to give you a run down of what is contained in the picture show below:

Upon entering the museum (from the mall entrance) there is the flag displayed in a silver sculpture state
A Betsy Ross imitator having children help her make the flag
The Greensboro lunch counter
Scurlock studio and photography equipment
The America's at war (only the colonial time period, the exhibit hall was way too big)
The Presidents
American entertainment
Photos of the 2009 Inauguration

Who Me?!?

2009-06-01T09:56:00.004-04:00

So this weekend I went to see my favorite baby in all the land. Zoey turned 9 months on Saturday and she is truly growing up fast. She is a speed crawler now and also pulls herself to her feet. I always pick my favorite picture to showcase here, but I had two this time. I love both for different reasons.

It is the first day of June so that means I will be updating various aspects of my blog as the day goes along. For my google readers you may want to access the actual blog tomorrow to check out the updates. I cannot predict how many postings I will have this month...June is going to be pretty busy for me, however I will try my best to not be neglectful! I am also considering a new photo blog...it's still just a notion at the present time as I am trying not to take on more than I can do, and I have so many other things that I am planning for the summer. I just feel like I would like to share what I see, as I see it. Well time will tell I'll make a decision by July.

Happy Monday!

Hero in a Half-Shell...

2009-05-31T16:00:00.000-04:00

On the way home from the salon last week, we spotted this little guy in the road. He had made significant progress in getting from one side of our unusually large road to the other, but in fear that he may get crushed...I picked him up and placed him at his destination. He wasn't scared at all...he stayed out of the shell the entire time and even appeared to be posing for the camera!! Of course me without my camera, luckily Squirt had hers nearby!

So You KNOW You Can Dance...

2009-05-30T20:50:00.003-04:00

This was really cute! The So You Think You Can Dance judge, Adam Shankman, got on stage with a contestant to perform the Lindy Hop the other night. He did really well, which should be expected since he is a choreographer!

Little Shop of Horrors??!!??

2009-05-29T06:13:00.008-04:00

Below is my lovely epi cactus and apparently some of my co-workers believe it resembles Audrey II from the Little Shop of Horrors, but I don't think so. This plant I grew from 5 leaf clippings with a little help from the sun and Miracle Grow Moisture Control Soil...it has blossomed quite well. I've had it for about 3 years now and last year was the first time it had flowers...about eleven of them...but I never witnessed the flowers fully opened. Well let me explain that, the blooms on this cactus only open at night and only for one day. Yep that's right people....you wait for 2-3 weeks for the flower to grow to it's full size...and then it's on its way out in the morning. Messed up, I know, but my luck has finally changed! This morning when I arrived to work surprisingly the flower was still open!!! I was sooo excited because I thought it was going to open while I was out of the office last week, but it didn't....and then I thought it was going to open a couple of days ago when I kept forgetting my camera, but as you can see it didn't! I am content to have finally seen the flower open in person instead of just online from other owners recounts.

The Plant...

The Bloom...

The Future Blooms...

Justice for All

2009-05-27T06:15:00.002-04:00

Who is Sonia Sotomayor? According to President Obama:

Empty...

2009-05-26T07:43:00.004-04:00

If you take the last tissue out of the box, does it pain you that badly to toss it out? Did you feel bad for taking the last tissue that I bought out of my box? Why leave the box behind? I would know that the tissue was gone...probably not until I needed one, but seriously people I don't need the box for decoration...you used it, it's gone...just throw it out. Geesh it's not a hard concept.

I often wonder with so many suffering from poor office etiquette and manners, what does your house look like? Do you leave trash about until you "feel" like tossing it out? I don't get it!

Happy Rainy Tuesday...

I ♥ This Commercial

2009-05-26T06:07:00.001-04:00

So this is not quite the commercial, but a brief story about the participants in the commercial...I do LOVE these commercials though, they are quite entertaining!

Remembering...

2009-05-25T15:55:00.003-04:00

Those that fought and gave their life, so that I may have the one I know today...

Thank You...

cartoon courtesy coxandforkum

Back to Life...

2009-05-23T21:40:00.002-04:00

So I'm back from the one day road trip to Rhode Island...

The ride up wasn't bad at all of course there was traffic on the Jersey Turnpike and then there was TRAFFIC in NY coming up to the GW Bridge...

Connecticut or Connect-I-Cut as I like to call it...was pleasant...it just looked like the air was so fresh and clean, at least up state CT did....

It took the whole 7 hours Mustang Sally (the GPS system) predicted thanks to the traffic hold ups, we got there around 1p...

Spent about 5 hours in the Island and definitely came to the conclusion that people with the RI license plates truly cannot drive...I thought it was bad around here...hmmm not even close...

I forgot my camera :-( and of course I didn't think about it until I had already been driving for 30 minutes...there was plenty I saw that I would have liked to take a picture of, but I guess the saying is true...the greatest pictures always occur when you're without the camera...

I made excellent time coming back to MD...we left Providence at 6p and I hit the MD line at 11p...don't ask me how I did it ;-) there was TRAFFIC of course again in NY coming up to the GW bridge and then there was traffic in MD because 2 of the 3 lanes were closed...

Yesterday I slept like a baby...I went to sleep around 2:30a and woke up at 8a...then sleep again at 10a and woke up at 2p and then sleep again at 7p rising at 7a this morning...I'd say that's pretty good shut eye!

On the Road Again...

2009-05-21T06:11:00.000-04:00

On my way to the Island....Rhode Island that is...

Fooled a lot of people with that line :-)

I'll have words when I return (and maybe some pictures too)

Til then...

Toodles Noodles!!

Looking for a Stay-cation??

2009-05-19T06:58:00.003-04:00

Happy Tuesday!

In regards to the current economic times, the stay-cation is the new summer "IT" thing to do! I'm all for supporting local events so click on a state (some of these websites are really excellent) to begin...

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virgina, Wisconsin, Wyoming and the District of Columbia

I ♥ This Commercial!

2009-05-19T06:13:00.002-04:00

Reality Bytes

2009-05-17T11:24:00.007-04:00

I have a guilty pleasure of watching more than my fair share of reality television. It's not all hogwash though...on MTV there was a show, Taking the Stage, (finale was last week) that featured five high school students at the School for Creative and Performing Arts in Cincinnati, OH and we basically got to look into the window of their lives as they pursue their respective passions. They are all very talented, but Mia the singer/songwriter is really amazing. Hopefully we will be seeing her soon!

Woodrow Wilson Bridge

2009-05-14T06:52:00.006-04:00

Although it seems as though it took forever for the bridge to finally be finished, I find it to be architecturally pleasing, especially at night.

The Plague of Procrastination

2009-05-14T06:01:00.003-04:00

I have been bitten by the Procrastination Fairy...I didn't even know I was infected until I had a brief think back this morning about various items on my to do list. I always make a list and for one reason or another I never quite complete everything I have listed.

It's actually pretty bad that I know I am procrastinating and still haven't done anything about it, so today is my day to tie up loose ends.

Wish me luck!!!

How do you...

2009-05-12T20:15:00.003-04:00

know it's time to let the onions go???

Definitely, when they look like they need to be in the ground lol!!

I ♥ This Commercial!

2009-05-12T06:31:00.000-04:00

Vote 4 Art

2009-05-11T14:50:00.004-04:00

I'm not sure how many of you noticed the Doodle 4 Google contest a couple of months ago, but it is now time for the online voting segment. I encourage you to take five to ten minutes and check it out. The contest was open to school aged children from K-12, and the art work is truly amazing from K all the way to 12th grade! It's awesome that Google encourages the creativeness of today's youth.

Enjoy! <- the link

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T09:09:00.002-04:00

Whether this is your first, twentieth, or to be Mother's Day...I wish you the best!!

A little history from http://www.mothersdaycelebration.com/mothers-day-history.html...

Origin of Mother's Day goes back to the era of ancient Greek and Romans. But the roots of Mother's Day history can also be traced in UK where a Mothering Sunday was celebrated much before the festival saw the light of the day in US. However, the celebration of the festival as it is seen today is a recent phenomenon and not even a hundred years old. Thanks to the hard work of the pioneering women of their times, Julia Ward Howe and Anna Jarvis that the day came into existence. Today the festival of Mothers day is celebrated across 46 countries (though on different dates) and is a hugely popular affair. Millions of people across the globe take the day as an opportunity to honor their mothers, thank them for their efforts in giving them life, raising them and being their constant support and well wisher.

The earliest history of Mothers Day dates back to the ancient annual spring festival the Greeks dedicated to maternal goddesses. The Greeks used the occasion to honor Rhea, wife of Cronus and the mother of many deities of Greek mythology. Ancient Romans, too, celebrated a spring festival, called Hilaria dedicated to Cybele, a mother goddess. It may be noted that ceremonies in honour of Cybele began some 250 years before Christ was born. The celebration made on the Ides of March by making offerings in the temple of Cybele lasted for three days and included parades, games and masquerades. The celebrations were notorious enough that followers of Cybele were banished from Rome. Early Christians celebrated a Mother's Day of sorts during the festival on the fourth Sunday of Lent in honor of the Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ. In England the holiday was expanded to include all mothers. It was then called Mothering Sunday.

The more recent history of Mothers Day dates back to 1600s in England. Here a Mothering Sunday was celebrated annually on the fourth Sunday of Lent (the 40 day period leading up to Easter) to honor mothers. After a prayer service in church to honor Virgin Mary, children brought gifts and flowers to pay tribute to their own mothers. On the occasion, servants, apprentices and other employees staying away from their homes were encouraged by their employers to visit their mothers and honor them. Traditionally children brought with them gifts and a special fruit cake or fruit-filled pastry called a simnel. Yugoslavs and people in other nations have observed similar days. Custom of celebrating Mothering Sunday died out almost completely by the 19th century. However, the day came to be celebrated again after World War II, when American servicemen brought the custom and commercial enterprises used it as an occasion for sales.

The idea of official celebration of Mothers day in US was first suggested by Julia Ward Howe in 1872. An activist, writer and poet Julia shot to fame with her famous Civil War song, "Battle Hymn of the Republic". Julia Ward Howe suggested that June 2 be annually celebrated as Mothers Day and should be dedicated to peace. She wrote a passionate appeal to women and urged them to rise against war in her famous Mothers Day Proclamation, written in Boston in 1870. She also initiated a Mothers' Peace Day observance on the second Sunday in June in Boston and held the meeting for a number of years. Julia tirelessly championed the cause of official celebration of Mothers Day and declaration of official holiday on the day. Her idea spread but was later replaced by the Mothers' Day holiday now celebrated in May.

Anna Jarvis is recognised as the Founder of Mothers Day in US. Though Anna Jarvis never married and never had kids, she is also known as the Mother of Mothers Day, an apt title for the lady who worked hard to bestow honor on all mothers.Anna Jarvis got the inspiration of celebrating Mothers Day from her own mother Mrs Anna Marie Reeves Jarvis in her childhood. An activist and social worker, Mrs Jarvis used to express her desire that someday someone must honor all mothers, living and dead, and pay tribute to the contributions made by them. A loving daughter, Anna never forgot her mothers word and when her mother died in 1905, she resolved to fulfill her mothers desire of having a mothers day. Growing negligent attitude of adult Americans towards their mothers and a desire to honor her mothers soared her ambitions.To begin with Anna, send Carnations in the church service in Grafton, West Virginia to honor her mother. Carnations were her mothers favorite flower and Anna felt that they symbolised a mothers pure love. Later Anna along with her supporters wrote letters to people in positions of power lobbying for the official declaration of Mothers Day holiday. The hard work paid off. By 1911, Mother's Day was celebrated in almost every state in the Union and on May 8, 1914 President Woodrow Wilson signed a Joint Resolution designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.

Today Mothers Day is celebrated in several countries including US, UK, India, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Australia, Mexico, Canada, China, Japan and Belgium. People take the day as an opportunity to pay tribute to their mothers and thank them for all their love and support. The day has become hugely popular and in several countries phone lines witness maximum traffic. There is also a tradition of gifting flowers, cards and others gift to mothers on the Mothers Day. The festival has become commercialised to a great extent. Florists, card manufacturers and gift sellers see huge business potential in the day and make good money through a rigorous advertising campaign. It is unfortunate to note that Ms Anna Jarvis, who devoted her life for the declaration of Mothers Day holiday was deeply hurt to note the huge commercialisation of the day.

A Rant...of sorts...

2009-05-07T07:48:00.006-04:00

I am totally convinced that Wreck-less Wednesday has to be reinstated. People cannot drive on Wednesday, the commute has not been that bad for a few weeks and even yesterday the commute was not the problem. I don't know...maybe because it's the middle of the week, or maybe it's because people are really just getting into the swing of the work week, whatever the reason is....I WISH IT COULD BE FIXED.

For the sake of length and the fact that I am really busy today, I will just state that the incident happened in a shopping center, by a soccer mom vehicle driver, and she clearly doesn't know that we drive on the right side of the road in America. If she had hit my car, I probably would be sitting in jail somewhere for assault not because I have an anger problem per say, but because I hate and I do mean HATE when people do idiotic things and just keep going about their day like they are in the right....WRONG!!!

With that said...I hope you have a wonderful Thursday! Is it supposed to rain today?!?

It's Here It's Here!!!!!

2009-05-06T06:03:00.006-04:00

The much anticipated 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is here!!! American muscle cars have been making a come back and it is only fitting that the Camaro joined the ranks of old, but new again! It's a little bitter sweet I'm sure for General Motors since they have decided to dissolve the Pontiac brand and along with that goes the much loved GTO. Maybe in the future after rebounding, Pontiac may return who knows, but in the meanwhile...the Camaro is back ;-)

photo: motortrend.com