what a bad headache felt like. Until yesterday. Now I remember. Unfortunately. This weather is prime headache time. Even with my new meds - Topamax.
The Topamax has been doing great at keeping away the everyday headaches. For the most part, the only migraines I've gotten have been alcohol related. Until this week, anyways. But this is prime allergy time.
Tuesday I had a headache that didn't go away until I went to bed - even with my regular migraine meds. But yesterday I could feel one coming on already in the a.m. So I took the Frova - still I got it. A pounder, bad enough to make me nauseous. Bad enough for me to take oxycontin left over from my hysterectomy. Twice.
That stuff took the edge off - enough for me to work all day. I had cereal for supper - nothing else sounded good. Book Club was at my house - due to Thea's unfortunate accident. And the second painkiller got through that - a discussion of "the Memory Keeper's Daughter". At bedtime I just hoped to go to sleep and get over it. But no luck - awake during the night with severe pain.
More Frova finally did the trick. Ah migraine - how I happily had forgotten you. How I will do what it takes to forget you again. My years with this affliction have seasoned me to the sick feelings that go with the pain - but I still feel like crying during the night when it hurts.
I feel for people with on-going pain issues. It is very wearing. Even when it doesn't hurt you're waiting for it to. Like today. If I lived somewhere else - where I wasn't allergic to stuff there would I feel like this?
I see my neurologist in a couple weeks again. I look forward to it.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Book Club
Ah Thea - it's just not the same without ya. Thea broke her elbow at work last week - surgery and the whole bit. Way worse than my broken foot. What is it with book club chicks anyway - are we just clumsy?
So Book Club - which is usually at Thea's, was at my place. It's just not the same. For one thing I missed Thea's girls - Peachy, Lucy and Hydrox. The last dog's name really isn't Hydrox- but Thea's old dog's name was Oreo (she, umm passed away) and T got a pound dog but I can't ever remember her real name - it might be Mimi. Or something.
And Thea is one of the original Book Club chicks. Club just isn't the same without her smiling face and her great laugh! I missed her. Vidette, Francie, Dianne, Angie and Deb made it and we had good discussion about the book. Odie loved having all those women here and got out nearly every one of her toys, and enjoyed trying to french kiss each of the girls.
I hope Thea has recovered enough next month - and is used to "winging it" with one arm for club next time. Heal fast Thea!
So Book Club - which is usually at Thea's, was at my place. It's just not the same. For one thing I missed Thea's girls - Peachy, Lucy and Hydrox. The last dog's name really isn't Hydrox- but Thea's old dog's name was Oreo (she, umm passed away) and T got a pound dog but I can't ever remember her real name - it might be Mimi. Or something.
And Thea is one of the original Book Club chicks. Club just isn't the same without her smiling face and her great laugh! I missed her. Vidette, Francie, Dianne, Angie and Deb made it and we had good discussion about the book. Odie loved having all those women here and got out nearly every one of her toys, and enjoyed trying to french kiss each of the girls.
I hope Thea has recovered enough next month - and is used to "winging it" with one arm for club next time. Heal fast Thea!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Old stompin' grounds
So I cut off his head with my cell phone camera - but Pat's tree has gotten muy largo - and yes, Kay has purchased ugly fake flowers for our father's grave. In addition she has put a frog by there. It's really sweet of her - and I'm not being sarcastic this time - I love her for it. I'm glad she remembers him like that.
I was in my old stompin' ground today - Atlantic. I went there on biz - the Cass County Landfill is participating an Environmental Management System (EMS) pilot project that is my baby at work. So it was kinda nice going to town on a nice sunny day for work.
I stopped at the cemetery on my way into town. Our baby boy Patrick (it may have been 18 years, but he'll always be my baby) is buried there along with 4 other generations of the Bullocks. The tree our friends purchased in honor of Pat has gotten huge! It was nice to have a few quiet minutes at the cemetery.
I arrived at the landfill site around 8:15 a.m. - drove through Grove City on my way there - it's about 5 homes, but is a gorgeous rolling area on the curvy blacktop road just off Highway 71. The consultants - Laura from Dallas and Tom from Ohio got there shortly after. Shelly, from the Iowa Waste Exchange was there too. Wendy Wittrock is the facility director. We spent some time talking biz and touring the facility. It made me miss my work at the local landfill - but not that much.
At lunch we headed to the old Whitney Hotel - I had a turkey ruben. It was good. I enjoyed chatting with Tom, Laura and Wendy. I've known Wendy for the past 10 years as we both ran landfills and worked together on some projects. Tom and Laura have been crucial to this EMS project. Laura is the main reason we hired this firm for the job, and the two of them have kicked ass! It was fun getting to know them a little better.
After lunch I trotted up the street to check out the shoe selection at Browns. Cindy Abild asked about you Betso - wondered if you were coming to the class reunion. I told her that now that you're going to LA this summer Atown was prolly out...
I was home in Creston by 3PM working. Will be here the next 2 days, thanks to Joan's visiting niece. Paul and Odie and enjoying it - so am I!
I stopped at the cemetery on my way into town. Our baby boy Patrick (it may have been 18 years, but he'll always be my baby) is buried there along with 4 other generations of the Bullocks. The tree our friends purchased in honor of Pat has gotten huge! It was nice to have a few quiet minutes at the cemetery.
I arrived at the landfill site around 8:15 a.m. - drove through Grove City on my way there - it's about 5 homes, but is a gorgeous rolling area on the curvy blacktop road just off Highway 71. The consultants - Laura from Dallas and Tom from Ohio got there shortly after. Shelly, from the Iowa Waste Exchange was there too. Wendy Wittrock is the facility director. We spent some time talking biz and touring the facility. It made me miss my work at the local landfill - but not that much.
At lunch we headed to the old Whitney Hotel - I had a turkey ruben. It was good. I enjoyed chatting with Tom, Laura and Wendy. I've known Wendy for the past 10 years as we both ran landfills and worked together on some projects. Tom and Laura have been crucial to this EMS project. Laura is the main reason we hired this firm for the job, and the two of them have kicked ass! It was fun getting to know them a little better.
After lunch I trotted up the street to check out the shoe selection at Browns. Cindy Abild asked about you Betso - wondered if you were coming to the class reunion. I told her that now that you're going to LA this summer Atown was prolly out...
I was home in Creston by 3PM working. Will be here the next 2 days, thanks to Joan's visiting niece. Paul and Odie and enjoying it - so am I!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Cluck Cluck
Yep I'm a biiig chicken. Joan's niece, husband, daughter - a toddler who is 2 and new baby boy - 2 weeks old are coming tomorrow to stay with Joan. I'm baling out! I'm going to Atlantic for work for the day. And I'm heading home after that.
I had considered going home anyway tomorrow - and decided against it. Thinking I needed to be here Thursday to get contracts done. But Joan's news about Erin last night made my mind up for me. You see I've met Erin - AND I've heard the stories. Erin is a spoiled brat. And she's the mom! Her mother - Joan's sister Jean is perfectly fine, as is her sister. I'm not sure just what went wrong with her. Her husband Gene is an enabler - allowing her to get away with her spoiled ways.
So I'm baling on Joan - heading to my own beddy bye - leaving the wayward family to the downstairs, along with their tiny baby and toddler. I'll be working at home Thursday and Friday - and entertaining book club ladies at my place Thursday night - cuz poor Thea broke her elbow! And Saturday we're having my lil buddy Krissy's bridal shower at Diana's house. I'm in charge of preparing an egg casserole and beverages - I'm taking fixin's for BM (that stands for bloody marys) and mimosas (the last time I drank one I fell down and got a black eye - but not due to drinking, it was really due to not warming up, and my cold knees were too cold to jog).
I had considered going home anyway tomorrow - and decided against it. Thinking I needed to be here Thursday to get contracts done. But Joan's news about Erin last night made my mind up for me. You see I've met Erin - AND I've heard the stories. Erin is a spoiled brat. And she's the mom! Her mother - Joan's sister Jean is perfectly fine, as is her sister. I'm not sure just what went wrong with her. Her husband Gene is an enabler - allowing her to get away with her spoiled ways.
So I'm baling on Joan - heading to my own beddy bye - leaving the wayward family to the downstairs, along with their tiny baby and toddler. I'll be working at home Thursday and Friday - and entertaining book club ladies at my place Thursday night - cuz poor Thea broke her elbow! And Saturday we're having my lil buddy Krissy's bridal shower at Diana's house. I'm in charge of preparing an egg casserole and beverages - I'm taking fixin's for BM (that stands for bloody marys) and mimosas (the last time I drank one I fell down and got a black eye - but not due to drinking, it was really due to not warming up, and my cold knees were too cold to jog).
Monday, April 26, 2010
My lil self
I was a cute little thing at some points in my childhood. One such time was when Mom had these cutouts done - check out the baggy knees. In't that precious? I wish my hair was still that un-wavy.
What a cute little haircut! And I like the outfit. Good job Pat B! What a cute little grin on my face - if I do say so my self. This photo cut out is obviously black and white and has a white plastic clip that holds it up. I've got it on my printer's drawer - a real monument to lil me.
What a cute little haircut! And I like the outfit. Good job Pat B! What a cute little grin on my face - if I do say so my self. This photo cut out is obviously black and white and has a white plastic clip that holds it up. I've got it on my printer's drawer - a real monument to lil me.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
PVS
Pablo the Poolboy and I are victims of the dreaded - Post Vacation Syndrome. Sheeit. We looked forward to our weeklong vacation in Marco all the live long brutal winter. And it was great - just what the doctor ordered.
But now it's over. and we're - like supposed to pretend it never happened. We're just supposed to be business as usual? Dang...I'm having problems dealing with it. Oh I'll be okay - eventually. I'll adjust to the fact that vaca is over. But last week was hard. Real hard.
I was spoiled by living with my poolboy all week. I take it for granted. And then we part and it sucks - I drive off on Monday and steel myself to aloneness. I'm by myself in the world again. I have Joan - she likes me and asks about my day. People at work are nice. But nobody loves me. There is nobody wagging their tail when I get home at night.
I know - this is a whiny self pity party. I'll suck it up and dig back in. Maybe I had a hormonal thing going on this week - who knows post hysterectomy? That one ovary could still be firing. But Pablo said he felt it too, and he's all main baby.
Paul is definitely tired of his job. I wish something would open up at the state office, just so we could decide just what we want to do. That thought brings huge mixed emotions - the thought of moving scares the hell out of me. Creston has been our home - our touchstone for 24 years. We've grown up with our friends there - and have been through a lot with them. Our kids don't know anything different.
But the thought of living around Des Moines together is intriguing. So much more to do, but no good friends to do stuff with. That's the dilemma! I told Paul we'd have to get a place with a great guest room/bath so we'd have lots of overnight visitors for plays/concerts/restaurants.
Thinking about it makes me nervous, excited, queasy. Selling this house makes me sad and nervous at the same time. I've got no idea what it would list for and how hard it would be to sell.
At this point it's all in the future. For now it's time to go pack my bag for the week.
But now it's over. and we're - like supposed to pretend it never happened. We're just supposed to be business as usual? Dang...I'm having problems dealing with it. Oh I'll be okay - eventually. I'll adjust to the fact that vaca is over. But last week was hard. Real hard.
I was spoiled by living with my poolboy all week. I take it for granted. And then we part and it sucks - I drive off on Monday and steel myself to aloneness. I'm by myself in the world again. I have Joan - she likes me and asks about my day. People at work are nice. But nobody loves me. There is nobody wagging their tail when I get home at night.
I know - this is a whiny self pity party. I'll suck it up and dig back in. Maybe I had a hormonal thing going on this week - who knows post hysterectomy? That one ovary could still be firing. But Pablo said he felt it too, and he's all main baby.
Paul is definitely tired of his job. I wish something would open up at the state office, just so we could decide just what we want to do. That thought brings huge mixed emotions - the thought of moving scares the hell out of me. Creston has been our home - our touchstone for 24 years. We've grown up with our friends there - and have been through a lot with them. Our kids don't know anything different.
But the thought of living around Des Moines together is intriguing. So much more to do, but no good friends to do stuff with. That's the dilemma! I told Paul we'd have to get a place with a great guest room/bath so we'd have lots of overnight visitors for plays/concerts/restaurants.
Thinking about it makes me nervous, excited, queasy. Selling this house makes me sad and nervous at the same time. I've got no idea what it would list for and how hard it would be to sell.
At this point it's all in the future. For now it's time to go pack my bag for the week.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Good start
Jud above - getting some culture at our $100 a plate meal at Beanos last Christmas
I started out the day with a nice sweaty walk - it's hilly here in southern Ioway! I'm not used to that after a winter of walking at the YMCA, last week at the beach in sunny Marco Island, Florida and the walking trails and sidewalks in Waukee - flat just like my chest. Woo baby those hills kick my ass.
My honey Pablo went with me and paced us right along - a good thing. I am a self imposed wimp. Any excuse not to work out or walk. I dislike that about myself, but what to do. I vow to get better - wish I had more internal fortitude like my buddy Deb or my spouse. I need to start doing some upper body work - what's my plan for that, huh?
Yesterday was a strange day that ended up with a headache - even before I drank a lemondrop martini. It was the funky damp wet weather I think. So by the time we met Jeff at A&G for supper at 7PM I had already taken a Frova migraine drug but my head was still pounding. So I figured WTF, why not enjoy a bevvie. So I did, but was glad to go to sleep later to fully get rid of that bastard headache. Woke up (after several wakeups during the night - stormy night) feeling okay. Phew!
Paul and Jud had a great trip to Moline to John Deere - met his mentor, a young woman named Tracy and all the people in his department. They got to tour the cyclinder area and go to lunch with many of the people he'll work with. Jud discovered they're all pretty young and there are sports fans in the group. There will be an intern softball team (Jud's Intramural team just won a shirt at ISU for a team championship), so he's excited about that. He got to see the St. Ambrose campus and the layout of where he's going to be hanging out.
It was a good day, and Paul said he thought the JD folks were happy they took time to do it. Jud asked good questions and made did us proud, looking people in the eye and shaking hands. He even knew the lingo of the people in the cylinder planning department - so he must be learning something. Our lil Juddy is growing up!
My job will be to meet Jud in DM and help him purchase more clothes for the job - business casual. I can do that!
My honey Pablo went with me and paced us right along - a good thing. I am a self imposed wimp. Any excuse not to work out or walk. I dislike that about myself, but what to do. I vow to get better - wish I had more internal fortitude like my buddy Deb or my spouse. I need to start doing some upper body work - what's my plan for that, huh?
Yesterday was a strange day that ended up with a headache - even before I drank a lemondrop martini. It was the funky damp wet weather I think. So by the time we met Jeff at A&G for supper at 7PM I had already taken a Frova migraine drug but my head was still pounding. So I figured WTF, why not enjoy a bevvie. So I did, but was glad to go to sleep later to fully get rid of that bastard headache. Woke up (after several wakeups during the night - stormy night) feeling okay. Phew!
Paul and Jud had a great trip to Moline to John Deere - met his mentor, a young woman named Tracy and all the people in his department. They got to tour the cyclinder area and go to lunch with many of the people he'll work with. Jud discovered they're all pretty young and there are sports fans in the group. There will be an intern softball team (Jud's Intramural team just won a shirt at ISU for a team championship), so he's excited about that. He got to see the St. Ambrose campus and the layout of where he's going to be hanging out.
It was a good day, and Paul said he thought the JD folks were happy they took time to do it. Jud asked good questions and made did us proud, looking people in the eye and shaking hands. He even knew the lingo of the people in the cylinder planning department - so he must be learning something. Our lil Juddy is growing up!
My job will be to meet Jud in DM and help him purchase more clothes for the job - business casual. I can do that!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
What a week...
Geez - only 1 week after vacation and I'm going to have to email Chris the master masseuse for work on my uber tight shoulders! I must sat working at my desk with my shoulders hunched like Herman Munster this week...
I came back to a full plate. One chore I'm working on that is not my favorite at work is doing grant contracts. Paperwork, ugh. And I didn't sleep that well all week - last night, prior to my a.m. appointment for my annual skin check at my dermo I dreamed I could push my ago spots around on my face - which left me wondering why I couldn't just push them right off my face!?!
Instead, at today's appointment, Dr. Feldman zapped a couple pre-cancerous spots with liquid nitrogen and wants me to monitor a red spot. We'll have to biopsy it in 3 weeks if it doesn't get better. Fun!
My roomie Joan is leaving tomorrow for a trip to Vegas (baby). I just can't say Vegas without baby - they go together...Joan is going with some old friends - 3 couples I think. She's bummed because Billy her husband is busy calving and can't go, so she's left being a 3rd wheel. And the trip seems to be pretty pricey - but I say she deserves it! She works hard and doesn't get to play much. When she goes to Billy's she works hard there too - cooking, cleaning, mowing and helping with livestock. So go crazy Joanie - have a great time!
Jud and Paul are heading to Moline tomorrow to check out the joint for Jud's summer internship at John Deere. They'll tour the facilities there, go to lunch and see the St. Ambrose University dormitory where Jud will live (after 2 weeks in a motel). I decided that it would be best if I stayed home and worked - so we didn't come off looking like overly involved helicopter parents. Paul will enjoy this and he and Jud can talk football draft all the way to the Quad Cities!
I came back to a full plate. One chore I'm working on that is not my favorite at work is doing grant contracts. Paperwork, ugh. And I didn't sleep that well all week - last night, prior to my a.m. appointment for my annual skin check at my dermo I dreamed I could push my ago spots around on my face - which left me wondering why I couldn't just push them right off my face!?!
Instead, at today's appointment, Dr. Feldman zapped a couple pre-cancerous spots with liquid nitrogen and wants me to monitor a red spot. We'll have to biopsy it in 3 weeks if it doesn't get better. Fun!
My roomie Joan is leaving tomorrow for a trip to Vegas (baby). I just can't say Vegas without baby - they go together...Joan is going with some old friends - 3 couples I think. She's bummed because Billy her husband is busy calving and can't go, so she's left being a 3rd wheel. And the trip seems to be pretty pricey - but I say she deserves it! She works hard and doesn't get to play much. When she goes to Billy's she works hard there too - cooking, cleaning, mowing and helping with livestock. So go crazy Joanie - have a great time!
Jud and Paul are heading to Moline tomorrow to check out the joint for Jud's summer internship at John Deere. They'll tour the facilities there, go to lunch and see the St. Ambrose University dormitory where Jud will live (after 2 weeks in a motel). I decided that it would be best if I stayed home and worked - so we didn't come off looking like overly involved helicopter parents. Paul will enjoy this and he and Jud can talk football draft all the way to the Quad Cities!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Sucked back into the vortex
That's what I felt like yesterday as I got closer to Des Moines - I felt like the big city was a muddy pond and I had on slippery shoes. I was too close to the edge. I slipped in. Dang!
I didn't feel it too badly yesterday - I was still basking in vacation glow I guess. But today it hit. Now I'm feeling overwhelmed. My shoulders are tense. Hmmm this may call for a visit to Chris the masseuse.
The good news - I walked down to Jimmy Johns at lunchtime. It was a gorgeous day. I took my #2 (roast beef) no mayo with oil and vinegar and ice tea to Governor's park east of the State Capitol. I sat on a bench there and read a Robert B. Parker novel, and the character ironically flies into the Quad Cities airport. Why ironic you ask? I was just looking at info on that airport yesterday because Jud is doing that internship there and may fly out of there for my niece's LA wedding.
I peeled off my jacket and sat in my shirtsleeves enjoying the sun. Kids walked by clutching their lunch bags scurrying from Capitol tours. A group of four worked out doing yoga in the grass nearby - 3 women and a black guy. I thought to myself that I couldn't see a white guy joining the group, but a black guy fit. Racist? Perhaps. White guys can't yoga...
A thought left over from our flight last weekend. We flew American Airlines - their board spiel goes like this: anyone with special boarding needs can board. Anyone in our platinum club can board. Anyone in the silver and bronze club can board. Anyone in the diamond club can board.
I thought to myself - anyone in the wood club, paper, lint in the pocket club can board.
By the end of today I did feel like pocket lint. I was very tired and I felt the work piling up. Sigh. I guess that's why they call it work.
I didn't feel it too badly yesterday - I was still basking in vacation glow I guess. But today it hit. Now I'm feeling overwhelmed. My shoulders are tense. Hmmm this may call for a visit to Chris the masseuse.
The good news - I walked down to Jimmy Johns at lunchtime. It was a gorgeous day. I took my #2 (roast beef) no mayo with oil and vinegar and ice tea to Governor's park east of the State Capitol. I sat on a bench there and read a Robert B. Parker novel, and the character ironically flies into the Quad Cities airport. Why ironic you ask? I was just looking at info on that airport yesterday because Jud is doing that internship there and may fly out of there for my niece's LA wedding.
I peeled off my jacket and sat in my shirtsleeves enjoying the sun. Kids walked by clutching their lunch bags scurrying from Capitol tours. A group of four worked out doing yoga in the grass nearby - 3 women and a black guy. I thought to myself that I couldn't see a white guy joining the group, but a black guy fit. Racist? Perhaps. White guys can't yoga...
A thought left over from our flight last weekend. We flew American Airlines - their board spiel goes like this: anyone with special boarding needs can board. Anyone in our platinum club can board. Anyone in the silver and bronze club can board. Anyone in the diamond club can board.
I thought to myself - anyone in the wood club, paper, lint in the pocket club can board.
By the end of today I did feel like pocket lint. I was very tired and I felt the work piling up. Sigh. I guess that's why they call it work.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Amy was home
Ha that was funny. My computer sometimes does this thing where it takes off on its own, opening new screens, searching words etc. I started this blog and after I wrote Amy was ho - it finished the blog and posted it. I chuckle. Computer - what are you suggesting about my baby girl?
Ah..our baby girl. It was so lovely to see her in person - and parting was such sweet sorrow this morning. I didn't even get to see her for a whole 24 hours! I think she'll agree - we probably shouldn't be together for days at a time at this stage in our lives. We do better from afar. But I loved seeing her - I didn't realize how much I've missed it.
She's cute and her voice is musical (okay it might just be a mommy's blinders). Yes, we can talk on the phone, but it just isn't the same as talking in person. Amy is a busybody - she seems to be always in motion - eating, moving, doing something. She is interesting to talk to - not afraid of laughing at herself.
Sure I sometimes seem frustrated at her situations - parking tickets, going through toll booths with no money. But I'm really proud of how she's done - moving far away, finding jobs and making a living for herself in several towns - most recently Denver. She pays her bills and doesn't have credit card debt. She's a good friend to people who deserve it and is a good employee.
On this trip she drove all day Friday to Des Moines and partied with college roomies Rachelle and Jenna that night. Saturday she headed to Ames to see her bro Judson David at his apartment and they walked to some parties - and saw some old friends including my former lil roomie Krissy. Amy had fun talking to Jud's roommates too. She enjoyed going to the little bar by his apartment that night now called Thumbs. In our day it was called Torks - it was a little place where they sold kegs for $25. Jud even gave Amy a hug when she left that night - too cute!
So this visit was too short. Just ask Odie - she shared some lovin' with her sissie. And the big news from the Kitty is she didn't react much to Amy which means she remembers her. Kitty is 15 now - we got her in 1995 for Amy's bday.
Hope to see Amy back here for Krissy and Caleb's wedding. And that will be right after we plan to be out in Denver for Memorial Day. And we'll see her at Leslie and Jordan's wedding this summer - so there are several Amy Lizzie fixes in my future to look forward to! yay!
Ah..our baby girl. It was so lovely to see her in person - and parting was such sweet sorrow this morning. I didn't even get to see her for a whole 24 hours! I think she'll agree - we probably shouldn't be together for days at a time at this stage in our lives. We do better from afar. But I loved seeing her - I didn't realize how much I've missed it.
She's cute and her voice is musical (okay it might just be a mommy's blinders). Yes, we can talk on the phone, but it just isn't the same as talking in person. Amy is a busybody - she seems to be always in motion - eating, moving, doing something. She is interesting to talk to - not afraid of laughing at herself.
Sure I sometimes seem frustrated at her situations - parking tickets, going through toll booths with no money. But I'm really proud of how she's done - moving far away, finding jobs and making a living for herself in several towns - most recently Denver. She pays her bills and doesn't have credit card debt. She's a good friend to people who deserve it and is a good employee.
On this trip she drove all day Friday to Des Moines and partied with college roomies Rachelle and Jenna that night. Saturday she headed to Ames to see her bro Judson David at his apartment and they walked to some parties - and saw some old friends including my former lil roomie Krissy. Amy had fun talking to Jud's roommates too. She enjoyed going to the little bar by his apartment that night now called Thumbs. In our day it was called Torks - it was a little place where they sold kegs for $25. Jud even gave Amy a hug when she left that night - too cute!
So this visit was too short. Just ask Odie - she shared some lovin' with her sissie. And the big news from the Kitty is she didn't react much to Amy which means she remembers her. Kitty is 15 now - we got her in 1995 for Amy's bday.
Hope to see Amy back here for Krissy and Caleb's wedding. And that will be right after we plan to be out in Denver for Memorial Day. And we'll see her at Leslie and Jordan's wedding this summer - so there are several Amy Lizzie fixes in my future to look forward to! yay!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Learnin' to Fly
But I ain't got wings...but I have figured out this whole security thing. So it's likely it will change soon. My system: I wear slip on shoes - this time I wore my Merrell Mary Janes, with footie socks. I know - it's nerdy but my feet get cold and I'm all about function not form. I see the chicks with the sexy sandals (and their boy toys or older $ daddies). Uh uh - not for me.
With that footwear I wore capris on the way down and my new longish Columbia shorts on my way back. No belt - cuz they can make the alarm go off. Bra - definitely - again because of support (even for me) and the cold thing. Tee shirt, short sleeves in case it gets hot. Long sleeve layer - wore my cool DM 1/2 Marathon shirt on the top yesterday and got several comments. I refrained from telling them that I am a walker.
I stowed my front zip Columbia jacket in my backpack along with my purse. In my other backpack compartments I put my phone and iPid, and lip stuff (cuz old ladies have dry lips). And my book. It's a wonderful system. I can slip my license into my backpack too for going thru security.
Once you get through the indignity of security, there is the fun of sitting in tight quarters with lots of people awaiting your flight. Lucky for us, the flights were pretty quick - timing was good each time, but we weren't rushed. Flew thru Charlotte on the way down and Dallas on the way back. (No recycling bins in Dallas - what's with that??) People clapped for incoming soldiers - it was pretty cool. We had some yummy barbeque in Charlotte with green beans and good mashed potatoes, which was a nice change from fast food.
In flight - First Class. D0 they really think a see through curtain will separate the richie riches from the unwashed ordinary people? My personal opinion is that most people should take those drugs advertised on TV for people who have to pee all the time - before they fly. Why would you have to pee 10 minutes after takeoff? I guess I s/b glad I usually don't have to do that. I do restrict liquids a bit so I'm not in that position - don't like those little potties.
It's now $25 for your damn suitcase and they don't even give you a little bag of nuts. Jeez. Flying is now officially like taking the Greyhound Bus, except for the paying extra for your bag part. There used to be a bus terminal in Atlantic and I took it to Omaha with Chris Deardorff once to meet Ginger and Joe for an overnight. Very worldly!
We left our car at the Parking Spot - it's a pay spot right off the Interstate in KC - kinda pricey at $8/day, but I got a 20% discount coupon from the Internet, so that helped. They picked us up right when we got outside after our flight - pretty convenient. Travel went well I must say.
With that footwear I wore capris on the way down and my new longish Columbia shorts on my way back. No belt - cuz they can make the alarm go off. Bra - definitely - again because of support (even for me) and the cold thing. Tee shirt, short sleeves in case it gets hot. Long sleeve layer - wore my cool DM 1/2 Marathon shirt on the top yesterday and got several comments. I refrained from telling them that I am a walker.
I stowed my front zip Columbia jacket in my backpack along with my purse. In my other backpack compartments I put my phone and iPid, and lip stuff (cuz old ladies have dry lips). And my book. It's a wonderful system. I can slip my license into my backpack too for going thru security.
Once you get through the indignity of security, there is the fun of sitting in tight quarters with lots of people awaiting your flight. Lucky for us, the flights were pretty quick - timing was good each time, but we weren't rushed. Flew thru Charlotte on the way down and Dallas on the way back. (No recycling bins in Dallas - what's with that??) People clapped for incoming soldiers - it was pretty cool. We had some yummy barbeque in Charlotte with green beans and good mashed potatoes, which was a nice change from fast food.
In flight - First Class. D0 they really think a see through curtain will separate the richie riches from the unwashed ordinary people? My personal opinion is that most people should take those drugs advertised on TV for people who have to pee all the time - before they fly. Why would you have to pee 10 minutes after takeoff? I guess I s/b glad I usually don't have to do that. I do restrict liquids a bit so I'm not in that position - don't like those little potties.
It's now $25 for your damn suitcase and they don't even give you a little bag of nuts. Jeez. Flying is now officially like taking the Greyhound Bus, except for the paying extra for your bag part. There used to be a bus terminal in Atlantic and I took it to Omaha with Chris Deardorff once to meet Ginger and Joe for an overnight. Very worldly!
We left our car at the Parking Spot - it's a pay spot right off the Interstate in KC - kinda pricey at $8/day, but I got a 20% discount coupon from the Internet, so that helped. They picked us up right when we got outside after our flight - pretty convenient. Travel went well I must say.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Vacation is over
But I'm okay...really. Because vacation week always goes really quickly - like fast forward time. And I had something to look forward to when I got home (besides the usual Odie's happy dance to see us). Amy will be here for a day - a quick trip to Iowa from her home in Colorado.
You might have noticed, I left my computer at home. Yep, a big step for me. But I was okay with it. Paul actually hinted around that he'd like to drag a laptop along - but I said no. I don't think there's wifi at the condo in Marco Island anyways.
And truthfully, I wanted to "let it go" and be computer free for a while week. (I still had my trusty Blackberry anyhow). And I was good with that little tiny screen being my laptop substitute. I could check Facebook, CycloneReport, DM Register, NY Times - all the good stuff. But no blogging.
How was my vacation? Very nice...worth waiting for - though about mid February would have been a hell of a nice time to get out of the f'in hell hole that Iowa was about then. Florida had a chilly winter this year too - for them! And it's been a very rainy spring - there is water everywhere. Regardless - it was a lot nicer than Iowa was.
What did we do? Hmmm it was pretty basic. My sis Cindy from Vail, Colorado was there - her husband Bolder (his real name is Brian - that's his nickname) doesn't do beaches well, so he stays home with the cats. Our typical day:
Up around 8ish, eat breakfast - for me, granola cereal with banana and strong coffee (Cindo insists), Paul eats English muffins, Cindy - a bizarre collection of whatever she feels like
Next - long walk on the beach after forging down 19 flights of stairs (it's really 18 flights as they don't have a floor #13 - superstitious lot). I would get a little dizzy during the stair thing. Then we'd go either north or south, for an hour or more. great workout! Plus Cindy and I talked the whole time.
After the walk, we'd take a short break - then it was down to the pool, or a bit of lunch and then down to the pool. Where we'd read, with an occassional dip. It was kinda windy, and overcast at times - I'm glad it wasn't full sun all the time or I'd be fried! As it was I got plenty of sun, plus a couple callousy blistery things from walking.
Later in the afternoon it was shower time - then I'd whip up lemondrop martinis, or Cindy and Paul would drink Chardonay and Coronas. Then we'd go to our favorite places for supper:
Little Bar - Twin Lobster Tails for Paul and Cindo - Blackened Shrimp for me, then on Thursday - C and I had Grouper Almondine and P had the shrimp
We went to the Crazy Flamingo 3 times! They have the best Peel and Eat Shrimp. Plus other stuff - last night I had a mild fish with Thai sauce. Good wings too.
Wednesday it was Porky's for ribs - and karaoke - lots of local talent - not us.
And how could I forget Joeys? Best Pizza ever? Plus yummy Caesars salad.
We did shop one afternoon when it was overcast - but that was it. Plus we went to the movie Date Night - very funny! Not too taxing. I read 4 books. Paul read 2. Hated to leave. Can't wait until next year!
You might have noticed, I left my computer at home. Yep, a big step for me. But I was okay with it. Paul actually hinted around that he'd like to drag a laptop along - but I said no. I don't think there's wifi at the condo in Marco Island anyways.
And truthfully, I wanted to "let it go" and be computer free for a while week. (I still had my trusty Blackberry anyhow). And I was good with that little tiny screen being my laptop substitute. I could check Facebook, CycloneReport, DM Register, NY Times - all the good stuff. But no blogging.
How was my vacation? Very nice...worth waiting for - though about mid February would have been a hell of a nice time to get out of the f'in hell hole that Iowa was about then. Florida had a chilly winter this year too - for them! And it's been a very rainy spring - there is water everywhere. Regardless - it was a lot nicer than Iowa was.
What did we do? Hmmm it was pretty basic. My sis Cindy from Vail, Colorado was there - her husband Bolder (his real name is Brian - that's his nickname) doesn't do beaches well, so he stays home with the cats. Our typical day:
Up around 8ish, eat breakfast - for me, granola cereal with banana and strong coffee (Cindo insists), Paul eats English muffins, Cindy - a bizarre collection of whatever she feels like
Next - long walk on the beach after forging down 19 flights of stairs (it's really 18 flights as they don't have a floor #13 - superstitious lot). I would get a little dizzy during the stair thing. Then we'd go either north or south, for an hour or more. great workout! Plus Cindy and I talked the whole time.
After the walk, we'd take a short break - then it was down to the pool, or a bit of lunch and then down to the pool. Where we'd read, with an occassional dip. It was kinda windy, and overcast at times - I'm glad it wasn't full sun all the time or I'd be fried! As it was I got plenty of sun, plus a couple callousy blistery things from walking.
Later in the afternoon it was shower time - then I'd whip up lemondrop martinis, or Cindy and Paul would drink Chardonay and Coronas. Then we'd go to our favorite places for supper:
Little Bar - Twin Lobster Tails for Paul and Cindo - Blackened Shrimp for me, then on Thursday - C and I had Grouper Almondine and P had the shrimp
We went to the Crazy Flamingo 3 times! They have the best Peel and Eat Shrimp. Plus other stuff - last night I had a mild fish with Thai sauce. Good wings too.
Wednesday it was Porky's for ribs - and karaoke - lots of local talent - not us.
And how could I forget Joeys? Best Pizza ever? Plus yummy Caesars salad.
We did shop one afternoon when it was overcast - but that was it. Plus we went to the movie Date Night - very funny! Not too taxing. I read 4 books. Paul read 2. Hated to leave. Can't wait until next year!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Liking people
When we like someone right away, is it a case of seeing qualities in them that we have? (or think we have?). I began thinking about this today when I was pondering people I've enjoyed hanging with at my various jobs through the years. (see blogs from months past to read about my exciting and not to exciting careers).
Take my little buddy at work at the Wallace Building, Becky Jolly. She's nearly half my age. Okay she's thirty - and preggers, due any day with child number two. Becky is nice to everyone - much like me. Alright, I'm not exactly like that, but I usually try to avoid being a jerk. I take time to word emails and letters just right so not to offend anyone's feelings.
And at my last job, our consulting firm engineer Christine was another youngster - from Chicago. You'd think we wouldn't have much in common. But she's something of a smart ass, and is smart - not afraid to let people know it. I liked that about her. Because I can be like that myself. Christine and are friends too - though we don't get a chance to see each other as much these days.
What does attract us to others - as friends, mates? Is it opposites attract? Or similarities?
Take my little buddy at work at the Wallace Building, Becky Jolly. She's nearly half my age. Okay she's thirty - and preggers, due any day with child number two. Becky is nice to everyone - much like me. Alright, I'm not exactly like that, but I usually try to avoid being a jerk. I take time to word emails and letters just right so not to offend anyone's feelings.
And at my last job, our consulting firm engineer Christine was another youngster - from Chicago. You'd think we wouldn't have much in common. But she's something of a smart ass, and is smart - not afraid to let people know it. I liked that about her. Because I can be like that myself. Christine and are friends too - though we don't get a chance to see each other as much these days.
What does attract us to others - as friends, mates? Is it opposites attract? Or similarities?
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Oh yeah, I'm a rock star!
A trash rock star. At least I felt like it today, after a compliment from the big kahuna at work. No doubt about it - there is nothing like a a few kind words from one's boss to make you feel good about what you do. Now a nice raise can go a lot farther in that department, but I hope that follows...
I had an 8:30 a.m. meeting set up with my boss Brian to discuss marketing the Environmental Management System (EMS) program that is, well, my baby at work. It's really the reason I went after the job that I have. Brian too has a lot invested in this program, which is a pilot stemming from legislation that passed in 2008.
Okay I can't stand it - skip this if you're really not interested - EMS is a new way to approach environmental excellence in our industry. The old way is called Comprehensive Planning - where waste reduction goals (25% and 50% less trash today compared to trash in 1988) were set by Iowa Code. In EMS, planning areas set their own goals in six areas - recycling, water quality, organics, greenhouse gas, household hazardous waste and education. Continuous improvement is expected.
I'm working with six planning areas who applied to be pilots in this effort. They are the "goody two-shoes" of the industry - the high achievers. We also hired a consultant who is excellent to help. It's a whole new way of thinking, and I'm still learning it - along with the pilot area staff.
So once the pilot project is done - prolly next fall or so, we hope to get more planning areas to jump on board the EMS train. So we'll need to market the program - and that's what I was chatting with Brian about this a.m.
When we were done, he told me I was doing a really great job and he knew they made a great hire. (I do agree with him. I'm a good fit for this job. - hell if there's one good thing about being old, it's that I have lots of good experience) I told Brian that I love my job and appreciate this opportunity. I said it IS hard to live away from my husband and work in Des Moines though. Just those few kind words from him put me on cloud nine the whole day.
Nothing like a little positive reinforcement to make one feel appreciated! And now for a little vacation!
I had an 8:30 a.m. meeting set up with my boss Brian to discuss marketing the Environmental Management System (EMS) program that is, well, my baby at work. It's really the reason I went after the job that I have. Brian too has a lot invested in this program, which is a pilot stemming from legislation that passed in 2008.
Okay I can't stand it - skip this if you're really not interested - EMS is a new way to approach environmental excellence in our industry. The old way is called Comprehensive Planning - where waste reduction goals (25% and 50% less trash today compared to trash in 1988) were set by Iowa Code. In EMS, planning areas set their own goals in six areas - recycling, water quality, organics, greenhouse gas, household hazardous waste and education. Continuous improvement is expected.
I'm working with six planning areas who applied to be pilots in this effort. They are the "goody two-shoes" of the industry - the high achievers. We also hired a consultant who is excellent to help. It's a whole new way of thinking, and I'm still learning it - along with the pilot area staff.
So once the pilot project is done - prolly next fall or so, we hope to get more planning areas to jump on board the EMS train. So we'll need to market the program - and that's what I was chatting with Brian about this a.m.
When we were done, he told me I was doing a really great job and he knew they made a great hire. (I do agree with him. I'm a good fit for this job. - hell if there's one good thing about being old, it's that I have lots of good experience) I told Brian that I love my job and appreciate this opportunity. I said it IS hard to live away from my husband and work in Des Moines though. Just those few kind words from him put me on cloud nine the whole day.
Nothing like a little positive reinforcement to make one feel appreciated! And now for a little vacation!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
I'm a foot ho
Now that I did that whole I'm so chaste thing in my last blog - I turned into a total slut at the foot rub store. I mean Top Nail. I got a guy this time! He was a sweet pretty good speaking, not effeminate young Chinese man. (hope that was PC enough for you).
Oh...what the hell let me start at the beginning of my day, because the start was not nearly as good as my foot job. I was on I-235 when I noticed I did not have a fresh minty taste in my mouth...in fact I had a morning breath taste. Dang girl, I said to myself, you forgot to brush your teeth!
I went through my morning preparations thinking about my lapse in tooth hygiene - when I realized I also forgot to apply deodorant. I double checked by sticking my finger in my armpit and sniffing for deod. residue - nope, just soap. Crap! Good thing I was running a little early - probably because I didn't do have of my morning stuff.
So I turned left instead of right at my work off-ramp and swung by the QuickStore for a Deodorant and a cappuccino (purchased as cover). I might have made is safely through work without it. But you'll see that I made a wise choice..
I still made it to work just after 6:30 a.m., and had just finished my breakfast at 7 when the Fire Alarm went off! Not kidding. All us early risers popped our gopher heads over the cubicle walls - looking to see if we were really going to head to the parking ramp. Yup - we were. A half hour, and one fire truck later I was trucking up 5 flights of stairs - deodorant was necessito. And again at 10 a.m. when we did the tornado drill and trotted down five flights to the tunnels and back up again.
Then, after a full day of work we had a quickie staff meeting - my boss Al, who is very understanding and allows me to pretty much do as I wish, announced he's retiring. Crap! I'm bummed. But totally understand. The state buyout is too good to pass up. It made me sweat to think about.
Then I took off to get to my pedicure (2nd evah) - where I was serviced by the cute guy. It was good for me.
Oh...what the hell let me start at the beginning of my day, because the start was not nearly as good as my foot job. I was on I-235 when I noticed I did not have a fresh minty taste in my mouth...in fact I had a morning breath taste. Dang girl, I said to myself, you forgot to brush your teeth!
I went through my morning preparations thinking about my lapse in tooth hygiene - when I realized I also forgot to apply deodorant. I double checked by sticking my finger in my armpit and sniffing for deod. residue - nope, just soap. Crap! Good thing I was running a little early - probably because I didn't do have of my morning stuff.
So I turned left instead of right at my work off-ramp and swung by the QuickStore for a Deodorant and a cappuccino (purchased as cover). I might have made is safely through work without it. But you'll see that I made a wise choice..
I still made it to work just after 6:30 a.m., and had just finished my breakfast at 7 when the Fire Alarm went off! Not kidding. All us early risers popped our gopher heads over the cubicle walls - looking to see if we were really going to head to the parking ramp. Yup - we were. A half hour, and one fire truck later I was trucking up 5 flights of stairs - deodorant was necessito. And again at 10 a.m. when we did the tornado drill and trotted down five flights to the tunnels and back up again.
Then, after a full day of work we had a quickie staff meeting - my boss Al, who is very understanding and allows me to pretty much do as I wish, announced he's retiring. Crap! I'm bummed. But totally understand. The state buyout is too good to pass up. It made me sweat to think about.
Then I took off to get to my pedicure (2nd evah) - where I was serviced by the cute guy. It was good for me.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
I'd like to
be able to blame my blow dryer (I have two now that I purchased one for each household, since I left my original one at Joan's last weekend), and my hair product (I've got cheap, and expensive take your pick). But it all comes back to me - and the faulty hair doin gene.
My hair just has a stronger constitution than I do. I can't make it mind! Good thing I made a better parent than I do hair do-er. Kinda.
Next I've got to break down my natural force field and allow someone other than Pablo to touch my feet. I need a pedicure before sunny Florida. Tomorrow or Thursday night. Stat! (I just felt like saying that).
For some strange reason, today, while cooking with Crisco at work, (no not really - that means I was just really busy and kept up a steady stream of work) I came to the realization that while I consider myself fairly liberal regarding social causes, personally I've actually been quite conservative.
Aside from a bit of dabbling in some herbs my freshman year of college, illegal drugs were out for this kid. Not even tempted. And my virtue - my Catholic school girl sense of guilt was highly developed and I didn't follow my older sister's Cindo's advice. (She told me "Don't wait - sex is fun!") I waited anyway. Okay not until I got married - but longer than most.
I guess what I'm saying is that I hold myself to more conservative standards than I hold others to. Isn't that weird? Split personality? Bi-polar?
My hair just has a stronger constitution than I do. I can't make it mind! Good thing I made a better parent than I do hair do-er. Kinda.
Next I've got to break down my natural force field and allow someone other than Pablo to touch my feet. I need a pedicure before sunny Florida. Tomorrow or Thursday night. Stat! (I just felt like saying that).
For some strange reason, today, while cooking with Crisco at work, (no not really - that means I was just really busy and kept up a steady stream of work) I came to the realization that while I consider myself fairly liberal regarding social causes, personally I've actually been quite conservative.
Aside from a bit of dabbling in some herbs my freshman year of college, illegal drugs were out for this kid. Not even tempted. And my virtue - my Catholic school girl sense of guilt was highly developed and I didn't follow my older sister's Cindo's advice. (She told me "Don't wait - sex is fun!") I waited anyway. Okay not until I got married - but longer than most.
I guess what I'm saying is that I hold myself to more conservative standards than I hold others to. Isn't that weird? Split personality? Bi-polar?
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Back from
Webster City, seeing the Goldschmidt relatives - always a good time. Such good folks. Hmmm seems to me it was just (way back machine switches on...) 31 years ago I went on that very trek (we stopped in Ames to pick up Jud) to meet the fam.
Paul had told his sister Jean he was bringing a "surprise". Argh - how embarrassing! If I knew him as well then as I do now, I'd have chewed his ass not to have let them know he was bringing an extra mouth to feed. They quickly put an extra plate on the table and were very gracious.
Me - I was kind of in shock. It was a lot of people. Jean and Dave have 4 kids - they were pretty young then. And George and Laura were there. I don't recall if any other family members were around...Doris? Anyways - welcome, ya'll! We like ham for Easter and we're pretty easy to get along with was what I came away with. I'm sure they were all thinking "Is this the one - not what we really had pegged for Paul." He was supposed to be the priest of the family after all.
Other memorable Easters with the Goldsmiths - we usually headed that way for that holiday cuz my folks were still in sunny Florida. Watching The Ten Commandments in the "front room" at George and Laura's place. Amy's first Easter - dressed in her little mint green Easter dress, it was hotter than blazes. We were so proud to show her off to the family.
George and Laura would have tons of candy. Laura would dye lots of eggs. We would hide them around the living room and the kids would have a blast looking for them. Paul and I would take a basket for each kid. The family gathered - mostly the locals, Carol/Irv and kids, Larry/Regina and kids - sometimes Dave and Pat would come over from Freeport with Sarah and Matt. Amy and Grandma Laura would play the organ and sing. We'd play cards and Rummy K. Good memories! I miss it. Today was a good reminder.
One year when we got home, Fabulous Mary Faber (keeper of the kitty cat) had hidden eggs all over the yard. The kids still talk about how fun it was to find them - that's one memory even Jud hasn't blocked out.
Something funny from Judson - now 21. He was at his favorite Ames bar Wednesday night drinking Dinky Wheat, his fave beer with a large group. It seems they drank the place dry of the stuff. He said he was uncomfortable at his class at the Jacobsen Building Thursday (Waa I know..) at 11 a.m. - it was hot that day, and there was some motor causing the projector screen to bounce. Not good with a hangover. Made Paul and me chuckle hearing that. Hey...at least he showed up at class!
Paul had told his sister Jean he was bringing a "surprise". Argh - how embarrassing! If I knew him as well then as I do now, I'd have chewed his ass not to have let them know he was bringing an extra mouth to feed. They quickly put an extra plate on the table and were very gracious.
Me - I was kind of in shock. It was a lot of people. Jean and Dave have 4 kids - they were pretty young then. And George and Laura were there. I don't recall if any other family members were around...Doris? Anyways - welcome, ya'll! We like ham for Easter and we're pretty easy to get along with was what I came away with. I'm sure they were all thinking "Is this the one - not what we really had pegged for Paul." He was supposed to be the priest of the family after all.
Other memorable Easters with the Goldsmiths - we usually headed that way for that holiday cuz my folks were still in sunny Florida. Watching The Ten Commandments in the "front room" at George and Laura's place. Amy's first Easter - dressed in her little mint green Easter dress, it was hotter than blazes. We were so proud to show her off to the family.
George and Laura would have tons of candy. Laura would dye lots of eggs. We would hide them around the living room and the kids would have a blast looking for them. Paul and I would take a basket for each kid. The family gathered - mostly the locals, Carol/Irv and kids, Larry/Regina and kids - sometimes Dave and Pat would come over from Freeport with Sarah and Matt. Amy and Grandma Laura would play the organ and sing. We'd play cards and Rummy K. Good memories! I miss it. Today was a good reminder.
One year when we got home, Fabulous Mary Faber (keeper of the kitty cat) had hidden eggs all over the yard. The kids still talk about how fun it was to find them - that's one memory even Jud hasn't blocked out.
Something funny from Judson - now 21. He was at his favorite Ames bar Wednesday night drinking Dinky Wheat, his fave beer with a large group. It seems they drank the place dry of the stuff. He said he was uncomfortable at his class at the Jacobsen Building Thursday (Waa I know..) at 11 a.m. - it was hot that day, and there was some motor causing the projector screen to bounce. Not good with a hangover. Made Paul and me chuckle hearing that. Hey...at least he showed up at class!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
My new friend Kathy
I just finished reading Kathy Griffin's "A Memoir According to" Official Book Club Selection. What a hoot! That woman could be my meangirl friend. Or maybe not - we may be too much alike. AND - get this - we share the same birthday - even though I'm a couple...okay 3 years older.
But the book is damn funny. And a little mean. I've never seen her show. Nor her stand up. It might be a little over the top. But I like it.
She had one prime time gig - as Brooke Shield's side kick on an early 2000's show Suddenly Susan. I may have watched it a few times. She tells all about that show. Or maybe not - she probably kept some stuff back. Hollywood is an ugly place me thinks.
Now she stars in a reality show on Bravo called My Life on the D list or something like that. Here's what made me laugh out loud - when she won an Emmy (a non primetime one, so not aired when we might watch) she had this statement all ready to go, with help from a witty writer friend
" A lot of people come up here and thank Jesus for this award. I want you to know that no one had less to do with this than Jesus. He didn't help me one bit. If it was up to him, Cesar Milan (the dog whisperer) would be up here with that damn dog. So all I can say is suck it Jesus, this award is my god now."
Now I don't care who you are - that's funny. Okay, if you're all religious, it prolly isn't, but if God doesn't think that's funny, then I don't want to go to heaven. God has to have a sense of humor! She said lots of groups got all up in arms about the speech and one even took out an ad in USA today dissing her.
Another funny thing about the book is that just like some of the books we read for book club, it's got a section in the back where some mysterious person asks the author questions (these are snarky and funny - as are the answers) and then there are tongue in cheek book questions. Our group would have a blast with these!
But the book is damn funny. And a little mean. I've never seen her show. Nor her stand up. It might be a little over the top. But I like it.
She had one prime time gig - as Brooke Shield's side kick on an early 2000's show Suddenly Susan. I may have watched it a few times. She tells all about that show. Or maybe not - she probably kept some stuff back. Hollywood is an ugly place me thinks.
Now she stars in a reality show on Bravo called My Life on the D list or something like that. Here's what made me laugh out loud - when she won an Emmy (a non primetime one, so not aired when we might watch) she had this statement all ready to go, with help from a witty writer friend
" A lot of people come up here and thank Jesus for this award. I want you to know that no one had less to do with this than Jesus. He didn't help me one bit. If it was up to him, Cesar Milan (the dog whisperer) would be up here with that damn dog. So all I can say is suck it Jesus, this award is my god now."
Now I don't care who you are - that's funny. Okay, if you're all religious, it prolly isn't, but if God doesn't think that's funny, then I don't want to go to heaven. God has to have a sense of humor! She said lots of groups got all up in arms about the speech and one even took out an ad in USA today dissing her.
Another funny thing about the book is that just like some of the books we read for book club, it's got a section in the back where some mysterious person asks the author questions (these are snarky and funny - as are the answers) and then there are tongue in cheek book questions. Our group would have a blast with these!
The cleaning lady finally showed up
She started by dancing around to the Abba CD and making Odie bark. I got Abba at the Planned Parenthood Book Sale last week. I'm a little disappointed Fernando (track 12) and beyond are scratched - what can one expect for $4. Kinda disrupts the jiven. In case you haven't figured it out, the cleaning bitch is me. The sun is shining and I'm in the mood to spiff up the place.
I like to have a clean house when I leave on a trip - in case the place burns down or something. It's like wearing clean underwear in case of an accident. I'm also thinking about my sis Suso who last year came home to a flooded home after their ice maker hose broke and water ran for a few days while they were gone - thousands of $$ damage, main floor and basement. We Bullock girls must have our ice makers thanks to Dave B. We're all ice freaks. (sidenote - I heard the gal in the next cubicle talking about this to co-workers, not me, last week saying she could do without an ice maker and it was all I could do not to jump up and shout - "you must have an ice maker! Dave Bullock's rules!" over the cubicle wall.
So I worked up a sweat dancing to my favorite Mama Mia songs, then I broke out the dusting tools and the vacuum. The Today Show talked about vacuuming the thing on the frig by the fan, and I recalled I hadn't done that in a while. You know how one thing leads to another...a couple hours later I've got the living room about done.
The plastic thing from the frig is on a towel after it took a bath. Vacuuming didn't cut it, a full bath was required. Saw a couple ants by the front door. Not that again! I hate dealing with chemicals with pets around. Spraying the house can't be good for them. May have to call the pest control peeps this year. Pablo is out trimming trees - borrowed a neighbor's pickup to haul limbs to the compost site. (see we don't need our own truck...) Still need to mop the floors and do windows.
Shout out to Alternative Leslie G - hope your vacation was grand! And that Alt Paul G didn't mind the mix up at Sahar. You out there in readerland. It's happened again! The real world refuses to admit that there are two such fabulous women with the same name. Leslie and I both now go to the salon - Sahar's in West Des Moines - but I explained to the appointment chick when I made my appointment, there are two of us. My cell number is different than hers. She's from Chariton.
Nevertheless, I got the call (while I was in Chicago at a conference no less) for LMG's pre-Florida vacation tune-up appointment. Sahar's left a voice mail as I was in a session at the time. So I texted LMG to let her know. But they must have had the appointment time wrong. The day of the appointment they called to say she missed it! I then called to explain to them (AGAIN) that there are 2 of us (just like the Doublemint Twins). The gal said "we must have put you together because I only have one phone number." Dumbshits!
So LMG arrived at her appointed time, and they didn't have it set up! She was not a happy pre-vacationer according to her email that evening. She was able to get a pedicure elsewhere I believe but other, um more personal attentions went unattended to. I think they owe her something. I'll probably get a nice gift soon. haha
Anyways - Leslie, looked like you had great weather and hope the place you stayed and your ballgames were great. Plus hope the shopping was divine. I'm hoping to score big there (avert eyes Pablo).
Okay back to mopping and windows. Abba is over and I'm on to the CD Amy made for me, a compilation of her fave tunes - which is kinda like getting a hug from my baby girl.
I like to have a clean house when I leave on a trip - in case the place burns down or something. It's like wearing clean underwear in case of an accident. I'm also thinking about my sis Suso who last year came home to a flooded home after their ice maker hose broke and water ran for a few days while they were gone - thousands of $$ damage, main floor and basement. We Bullock girls must have our ice makers thanks to Dave B. We're all ice freaks. (sidenote - I heard the gal in the next cubicle talking about this to co-workers, not me, last week saying she could do without an ice maker and it was all I could do not to jump up and shout - "you must have an ice maker! Dave Bullock's rules!" over the cubicle wall.
So I worked up a sweat dancing to my favorite Mama Mia songs, then I broke out the dusting tools and the vacuum. The Today Show talked about vacuuming the thing on the frig by the fan, and I recalled I hadn't done that in a while. You know how one thing leads to another...a couple hours later I've got the living room about done.
The plastic thing from the frig is on a towel after it took a bath. Vacuuming didn't cut it, a full bath was required. Saw a couple ants by the front door. Not that again! I hate dealing with chemicals with pets around. Spraying the house can't be good for them. May have to call the pest control peeps this year. Pablo is out trimming trees - borrowed a neighbor's pickup to haul limbs to the compost site. (see we don't need our own truck...) Still need to mop the floors and do windows.
Shout out to Alternative Leslie G - hope your vacation was grand! And that Alt Paul G didn't mind the mix up at Sahar. You out there in readerland. It's happened again! The real world refuses to admit that there are two such fabulous women with the same name. Leslie and I both now go to the salon - Sahar's in West Des Moines - but I explained to the appointment chick when I made my appointment, there are two of us. My cell number is different than hers. She's from Chariton.
Nevertheless, I got the call (while I was in Chicago at a conference no less) for LMG's pre-Florida vacation tune-up appointment. Sahar's left a voice mail as I was in a session at the time. So I texted LMG to let her know. But they must have had the appointment time wrong. The day of the appointment they called to say she missed it! I then called to explain to them (AGAIN) that there are 2 of us (just like the Doublemint Twins). The gal said "we must have put you together because I only have one phone number." Dumbshits!
So LMG arrived at her appointed time, and they didn't have it set up! She was not a happy pre-vacationer according to her email that evening. She was able to get a pedicure elsewhere I believe but other, um more personal attentions went unattended to. I think they owe her something. I'll probably get a nice gift soon. haha
Anyways - Leslie, looked like you had great weather and hope the place you stayed and your ballgames were great. Plus hope the shopping was divine. I'm hoping to score big there (avert eyes Pablo).
Okay back to mopping and windows. Abba is over and I'm on to the CD Amy made for me, a compilation of her fave tunes - which is kinda like getting a hug from my baby girl.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Preppin' for the vaca
I'm starting to get the pre-vacation excitement jitters. Thoughts shooting through my head like - "gotta remember my beach bag". Or "can't wait to eat all that shrimp". Today I told Paul -" We gotta turn off the ice maker while we're gone". I worry about Odie while we're gone too - even though she's perfectly fine at the puppy spa (dog sitter Lila's house). They have other dogs, and it's good for her to socialize with other pooches.
Sometimes that getting worked up before vacation is just too much. I don't know why I do it to myself. It's just overboard. Stupid really. I need drugs or something - why do I get so anxious. And Pablo - he's even worse than I am!
We fly out of Kansas City early Saturday a.m. on 4/10. So Paul will prolly hardly sleep - but unlike our Christmas trip, we shouldn't have to worry about ice. (though you never know - this is the Midwest after all...)
Once we get gone, on the plane and all, I'll begin to relax. The second leg anyway. Flyway used to we kind of glamorous. Now it's like a bus terminal with other scraggly bus rider, only you're flying. So un-fun. People used to dress up to fly. Now some wear what (this means you Amy) what looks to be their jammies. I'm all for comfort, but it's not WalMart people.
When we step out of that plane and into Southwest Florida International Airport, and feel that warm moist Floridian air, I'll be in my happy place. My sister Cindo will be their to pick us up. With her smiling face and her big girl bottles of Chardonnay. Pablo, Cindo and I get along swimmingly.
One more week baby...I need to hang on and concentrate at work one more week. Lord gimme de strength. Keep garbage in my head one more week, den, let it out for another week.
Sometimes that getting worked up before vacation is just too much. I don't know why I do it to myself. It's just overboard. Stupid really. I need drugs or something - why do I get so anxious. And Pablo - he's even worse than I am!
We fly out of Kansas City early Saturday a.m. on 4/10. So Paul will prolly hardly sleep - but unlike our Christmas trip, we shouldn't have to worry about ice. (though you never know - this is the Midwest after all...)
Once we get gone, on the plane and all, I'll begin to relax. The second leg anyway. Flyway used to we kind of glamorous. Now it's like a bus terminal with other scraggly bus rider, only you're flying. So un-fun. People used to dress up to fly. Now some wear what (this means you Amy) what looks to be their jammies. I'm all for comfort, but it's not WalMart people.
When we step out of that plane and into Southwest Florida International Airport, and feel that warm moist Floridian air, I'll be in my happy place. My sister Cindo will be their to pick us up. With her smiling face and her big girl bottles of Chardonnay. Pablo, Cindo and I get along swimmingly.
One more week baby...I need to hang on and concentrate at work one more week. Lord gimme de strength. Keep garbage in my head one more week, den, let it out for another week.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
More than a feeling
I had that feeling today. My first day of the year with no socks. Ah...now I need a pedicure! So I can show my toesies. They are pretty rugged looking right now. I def need to get that done before my vacation.
This morning I was heading to Mount Ayr, sockless. With the windows down listening to a rocking Dave Matthews - the new one. I was filled with creative ideas to help the Ringgold County folks with their recycling problems. I remembered that my former board member Gerald McLain now lived and had a business on the square in Mount Ayr - I could stop in and say "Hi" I was cooking!
I thought about the fact that I'm going to be vacation in a week. In beautiful Southwest Florida. With my sister Cindo and Pablo the Poolboy. He will peel grapes for us and fan us with giant leaves, bringing us beverages on demand. haha. He will drive us around to our fave restaurants and take us shopping.
This nice weather just tends to perk one up. I got to Mount Ayr at 10:30 a.m. - a bit early so I popped into see Gerry - he wasn't in but his wife said to stop back. So I met with the Supes. They were nice - and confused about their obligations and options. I felt like I answered a lot of Qs for them.
Afterwards, I stopped back at Gerry's and he and wife Geraldine (it's true that are their real names) and I ate at cute place and had paninis. It was nice catching up. G and I built up Prairie Solid Waste Agency pretty much from scratch - he was as passionate about it as I and was very supportive. I owe much of my career to him.
Now I have my hours in for the pay period and am enjoying putzing at home. It's nice to be home.
This morning I was heading to Mount Ayr, sockless. With the windows down listening to a rocking Dave Matthews - the new one. I was filled with creative ideas to help the Ringgold County folks with their recycling problems. I remembered that my former board member Gerald McLain now lived and had a business on the square in Mount Ayr - I could stop in and say "Hi" I was cooking!
I thought about the fact that I'm going to be vacation in a week. In beautiful Southwest Florida. With my sister Cindo and Pablo the Poolboy. He will peel grapes for us and fan us with giant leaves, bringing us beverages on demand. haha. He will drive us around to our fave restaurants and take us shopping.
This nice weather just tends to perk one up. I got to Mount Ayr at 10:30 a.m. - a bit early so I popped into see Gerry - he wasn't in but his wife said to stop back. So I met with the Supes. They were nice - and confused about their obligations and options. I felt like I answered a lot of Qs for them.
Afterwards, I stopped back at Gerry's and he and wife Geraldine (it's true that are their real names) and I ate at cute place and had paninis. It was nice catching up. G and I built up Prairie Solid Waste Agency pretty much from scratch - he was as passionate about it as I and was very supportive. I owe much of my career to him.
Now I have my hours in for the pay period and am enjoying putzing at home. It's nice to be home.
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