It's a Chongtastic Life

Desk Job Zombie

2012-01-05T20:07:00.001-08:00

I have turned into a boring person. I think part of it is that my job is sucking the life out of me. I like my job, don't get me wrong. I work with great people and for a great group of doctors However I kind of feel like its turning me into a boring person with nothing to talk about that would interest anyone outside my field. The things I do have to talk about are so boring to even me that some days that I'm not even motivated to talk about them. I sit at a desk all day staring at a computer, numbers and mostly bland politically correct medical records. It's extremely sad that I look forward to the random note a doctor has slipped in that probably shouldn't be there. The ones where he actually describes a condition or personality of a patient in the exact way he sees it. In these days of the frequent medical malpractice lawsuits, those are very rare. So most days I sit at a computer without speaking to anyone for long lengths of time, reading op report after op report and typing code after code and by the end of the day I feel like a zombie. It's hard to even relate to people sometimes at the end of these days. I just stare at them numbly and they eventually stop talking to me. Then I come home and leave it behind. But then another type of situation takes over. Chuck and I have a great routine. We know how most of our evenings will go. Dinner, bath time for the kids, small quiet playtime, read to the kids, kids bedtime and then we have about an hour or so left before our own bedtime. It works for us but more importantly it works for the kids. They know what to expect. There is no complaining at bedtime. No negotiating. It's how it is and we all know it. Sometimes though I feel like this is making me dull too. I love my home life. It's safe, it's comfortable and full of people I love and love me back. But I miss adventure. I miss picking up and doing something completely random, completely unplanned. Maybe this is the life of a working mom of two small kids. But I need some balance. I think about some of the crazy things I did in high school, college, prior to kids and I miss it. I miss the stories. You hear people say that this is what happens when you get married and settle down but I don't believe it. I believe there are still adventures to be had in our daily life. My New Years resolution this year is to add that adventure back into my life. I'm not sure how or where to start but this is the beginning...as long as it doesn't interfere with my bedtime.

Leave it to Charlie Brown

2011-11-14T18:46:00.000-08:00

I’d like to get a little something out of the way first. It has obviously been a really long time since I’ve posted here. I wasn’t even entirely sure I remembered my login to tell the truth. I’m sure there aren’t many (if any) people that still even remember that I have this blog or would even think to check for an update. Those that do stumble across it, I’m glad you found it. I intend to start posting again. We’ll see how that goes…
Tonight my 3 year old daughter asked to watch the Charlie Brown Christmas special that we happen to have on DVD. This is no reflection of her readiness for Christmas since she asks for it year round but as I sat down in front of the TV to put the DVD in for her, I found myself wanting to watch it. Normally this time of year, I groan at all the decorations and music I hear as I’m out and about. I’m typically never ready to even discuss Christmas until after Thanksgiving.
This year I feel a little differently though. I can’t say that I’m quite ready to embrace it, but I haven’t minded it as much. Maybe it’s the “Big Eastern Syndicate” finally getting to me…the same people that push Christmas on us earlier and earlier every year. However I don’t think so. I think as I’ve gotten older I just miss my childhood more and more.
As I sat down in front of my TV tonight and the first scene of Charlie Brown came on, with the snow and the music we all know too well, it washed over me. I closed my eyes and felt myself back in my family’s living room at 8 or so years old. I could feel my fuzzy winter pajamas and see the multicolored Christmas tree to my right. I could feel, hear and smell the wood burning stove that I always hated as a kid but now just feels like home. The overall feeling of happiness and security that memory gave me was a strong one. It was only for a second before I snapped myself out of it and went back to folding the laundry that I had previously been working on while Corinne snuggled up in our recliner in the living room. At first it left me incredibly sad. My childhood “home” doesn’t exist any longer. My parents divorced when I was in college and my family changed. Though some family still lives there, I can’t ever go back to what was my home as a kid. There aren’t many people that probably can, I guess. Once the temporary sadness passed, it made me realize just how lucky I am to have had a happy and healthy childhood. There are so many adults that can’t say that. So many children currently living in a world of instability…and worse.
These are obviously not groundbreaking thoughts but ones that reminded me of just how important it is to be the best parent I can be. What memories will my kids have of their childhood home and their childhood in general? Will they be as warm and fuzzy? Do Chuck and I give them that overall sense of love? I hope so. I hope their memories of our family’s metaphorical wood-burning stove will bring them back to a time and a place they can remember with the same amount of warmth. I don’t believe much matters beyond that.

SpiderAsh

2008-09-15T09:21:00.000-07:00

My nephew, Ashtin, sings the Spiderman theme song.

Spiderman, spiderman, does whatever a spider can.
Spins a web, any size. Catches thieves, just like flies.
Hey there, there goes Spiderman!

Our busy summer

2008-07-03T11:38:00.000-07:00

Man, I've been busy since I last posted here. This summer seems to just be flying by. We had our bathroom remodeled over the past couple weeks and wow, it looks a million times better. Who knew getting the old vanity (that had chew marks from Webster) out of there could make such a difference? Yes, he chewed the side of the vanity. Apparently he hated the thing as much as we did. Redoing a room always amazes me how long we will tolerate an awful and embarrassing room as long as we do. Really, the flooring didn't even go from wall to wall. If you've never seen it, I'll just let you imagine that in your mind for a minute. But! We no longer have a trashy bathroom. Yay us!

Let's see, what else has been going on...oh right! We got new backyard furniture. I love it, even though we haven't had much opportunity to enjoy it with all this rain.

Other than that, not much has been going on. I've just been sitting around the house, not going to work, getting small amounts of sleep, and catering to the needs of our most exciting bit of news. Miss Corinne is here!!

I had her on June 5th and she's just absolutely amazing. I was admitted to the hospital on the 4th to be induced. They started the pitocin the morning of the 5th and we had her at 12:06. It was a piece of cake compared to Chase's birth. I'm talking maybe 10 minutes of pushing, if that. I was a little out of it so I don't have an exact timetable but it was short. I couldn't have asked for an easier delivery. Things are going very well and actually I can't believe it's already been 4 weeks. Chase is doing well with her, though he has been acting out a little. Since when does he throw a temper tantrum in Target? I don't know but it's getting a little old. I was THAT mom the other day. You know, the one with the screaming 3 year old who was crying for no reason and could not be reasoned with. I even sunk so low as to bribe him. I'm ashamed but it didn't help anyway. We made it home though and he was dealt with. I'll be surprised if it happens again. Other than that bit of trouble, we are all adjusting to the big change. She's healthy and beautiful and she will kick your ass if you say otherwise. We couldn't ask for more.

The Boss and The Buffalo

2008-05-05T13:26:00.000-07:00

Hi, yeah, so, it's been a while and my only excuse is that I'm pregnant. Very pregnant. Like, I have 5 weeks left, People. I'll keep it brief and just let you know that things are good but I'm ready for Miss Thing to arrive. Corinne Michelle is her name and she is set to be here around June 9th for those who can't recall. Meanwhile Chase continues to grow in mind, body and bossiness. Take this video below as a prime example. And yes, I know, he could have totally fit through that space with his car but my Power of The Buffalo had him convinced that he couldn't, hence keeping him confined to a smaller space. This of course also limited the area I had to run to keep up with him. Smart parenting at it's finest.

My Grandmother

2008-03-03T15:37:00.000-08:00

I wish this post could be a little happier after being away from here for so long but unfortunately my family lost a great lady this past week. My grandmother passed away on Wednesday after years of fighting Alzheimer's. She passed away peacefully surrounded by family which is the way it should be. She held on for a few days after the family was all called in and I know she did it intentionally. Even in such a sad situation, it was nice to spend time with my extended family that I just somehow lose track of in our busy day to day lives. We caught up on what's been going on, laughed together like we always do and cried together like we've done a few too many times as well. I know my grandmother was aware of the time we were spending together and I know she was cherishing it as much as the rest of us. Our big family gatherings have always been our family's way and she was loving every second of it. I know it in my heart. I find comfort in the fact that we were able to give it to her one last time.

I'll miss you so much Grandma, but I know you are in a much better place. I'm glad you finally made it there. I love you and can't wait to see you again.

I'm not dead.

2008-01-09T06:21:00.000-08:00

Just a little worn out, maybe. Our holidays were great but chaotic as always. We all enjoyed our family time and the time off from work too, of course. Oddly enough though, I'm just ready to get back into our routine. I feel so old for saying that. I don't know how to post anything about the holidays without it being a mile long entry, so I'll just leave you with a picture that pretty much sums up our Christmas. A dollar to the first person to find Katie (think "Where's Waldo?"). Hope your holidays were as great as ours!

Dial-a-Pansy

2007-11-30T07:42:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing I've learned recently, it's that the three year old toddler mind is a complicated one. Chase will remember something from days ago and bring it up in random conversation with just one small thread tying it all together-much like a crazy person. I've made it somewhat of a game to find that thread and figure out just what it is so I can fully understand where Chase is coming from when he says the things he does.

So Chase and I were eating some leftovers from Thanksgiving dinner last weekend when he eyeballed my plate suspiciously.

Chase: Mommy, what's that? *points to my plate*
Me: It's cauliflower, honey.
Chase: *thinks to himself for a minute*
Chase: (Did) it answer? Daddy didn't answer his phone.

Now to the outside world, his response to my answer would make no sense. But to ME, it makes perfect sense. A week ago we tried calling Chuck on our way home from work/school. He didn't answer his phone. It was a quick moment in our life but something that obviously bothered Chase since he decided to bring it up again. However, what was the thread that brought that memory back to him? The thread was the cauliflower. You and I would have heard my answer to be "cauliflower". But Chase heard "call-a-flower". So he simply wanted to know if it answered when I called it. And for the record, no, it did not.

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T11:41:00.000-07:00

Chuck and I recently stayed at The Elms Resort for a mini anniversary celebration. We did the spa thing, did dinner and had an overall good time...except for the haunting.

I was so exhausted that evening that when I fell asleep, I slept like a rock. The following weekend was when I found out that I was pregnant so I suppose that would have been the reason why. Anyway around 2:00 in the morning we began hearing some yelling. Loud yelling. Me being out of it, I only remember vaguely hearing the yelling but I never did wake up enough to remember what was being said. Chuck, however, remembers it vividly. Apparently, a man and a woman were yelling in a panic, "Everyone get out! Everyone get out!" The thing is, we heard nothing after that. Not a peep. So Chuck immediately assumed that we were being haunted and nothing was getting him out of bed. Approximately 30 minutes later, the knocking began. A steady knocking on one of the doors in the hall went on for a while and then silence. Chuck was pretty freaked out at that point so he tossed and turned the rest of the night.

The next morning he was telling me all this and I quickly wrote it off as some rowdy neighbors. While I firmly believe the existence of ghosts is possible, I've never encountered it myself so it's never been an answer to anything for me. As we were checking out however, I asked the lady at the front desk if she had ever heard of the hotel being haunted. She told me that she had never experienced anything herself but then she handed me an 8x10 laminated picture. It was a picture of a woman who was obviously in one of the guest rooms. It looked like a very ordinary picture. She was smiling at the camera and I just didn't see anything abnormal whatsoever until the television caught my eye. I wish I had a good way to describe this because just the sight of it sent chills up my spine. The television was obviously turned off but there was a definite image of a ghostly face on it. A ghostly screaming face. On the television. In the guest room. Ooooo, it still gives me the chills thinking of it.

So of course the first thing I did when I got home was googled The Elms and ghosts. It returned some very interesting results. The Elms website itself has this to say:

Over the years, the Elms has been said to be host to several spirits. The origin of these ghosts have been the source of many a 'spirited' discussion. While the hotel had seen two devastating fires, no fatalities had occurred. Rumors have persisted that one of the spirits was involved in one of the fires. The lap pool area supposedly entertains the spirit of a gambler involved with illegal activities during the speakeasy days of Prohibition. The housekeeping staff has a spiritual adviser in the form of a ghost wearing a 1920's style uniform. One thing everyone seems to agree on is the friendliness of the spirits. These gracious ghosts may act as spiritual guides to the next adventures that await the grand hotel.

The website Legends of America had this to say:

However, the Elms, like many historic hotels, is also said to play host to a couple of unearthly guests. The lap pool in the basement is said to be haunted by a man traced back to the hotel’s “speakeasy” days. During prohibition, the gangsters used to store their liquor and hold their all-night gambling parties in these blocked off rooms. The spirit is said to be that of man killed by the mob during one of these illegal drinking events.

Reportedly, on the third floor the hotel, staff and guests alike, have often seen a maid wearing a 1920s style uniform. Seemingly, she is extremely benevolent and only there to watch today’s housekeeping staff to ensure that they are doing their work correctly.

Another spirit is said to be that of a woman who walks through the hotel looking for her child. Distressed, she has been known to pull people’s hair or throw things across the room.

Both guests and staff report the feeling of an unearthly presence in several areas throughout the old hotel, as well as unexplained noises and the occasional glimpse at one of the three spirits.

Oh and for future reference yes, we were on the third floor.

So the jury is still out on whether we were actually haunted or not but it was still enough to give me the chills...and keep me away from the third floor next time we go.

The Gift of my Nightmares

2007-10-30T09:22:00.000-07:00

Hold me.

Happy 3rd Birthday, Chase!

2007-10-22T07:40:00.000-07:00

October 2006

November 2006

December 2006

January 2007

February 2007

March 2007

April 2007

May 2007

June 2007

July 2007

August 2007

September 2007

October 2007

Where did he learn this?

2007-10-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

People have been asking me how I've been feeling since I found out about the new baby on the way and really, I haven't been bad at all. I have been very tired at times over the past couple weeks but really, that's it. Lucky, I guess. Chuck and Chase have been so good about letting me crash out on the couch when I need to that I may be taking it a little for granted.

Yesterday Chase and I were at home and I just couldn't shake the drowsiness that morning. So I napped lightly on the couch while Chase played with his toys and watched a little TV. Around 11ish, Chase came over to me and told me that he was getting hungry and he wanted some peanut butter and jelly. I told him that was fine and if he woke me when Franklin was over, I would make him some lunch.

Twenty minutes passed and I heard the credits start to roll. Chase came over, pulled the blanket off of me and says, "Time to wake up, Mommy. I'm taking your blankie." Then he walked away with it!

I think sometimes he takes after his mother a little too much.

Numbered Paragraphs-My Favorite!

2007-10-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

We've been pretty busy lately and I have quite a bit to talk about but I'll make this short and sweet. How about a few numbered paragraphs?

1. We're going to see Garth Brooks in a few weeks. Now, I'm not a country fan. At all. I know nothing of Garth's new music, nor do I have any desire (I'm sure he'll get us up to date at the concert). However the man is a cultural icon and I don't want to miss it. Plus I hear he puts on a good show...or at least he did 10 years ago. Plus! It's at the new Sprint Center here in Kansas City and that's reason enough to go right there. I'll try not to break anything.

2. We went to the zoo last weekend and had lots of fun. I rode a camel, Chase got a tattoo, it was good times.

3. We bought a new car that's growing on me. It's a 2005 Escape (essskahpay). I like it and it saves us money. Bonus.

4. Chase's 3rd birthday is quickly approaching. We're having two parties. Yes, I'm nuts, thank you. It's just that with such a big family...*sigh*...there's no excuse. Moving on.

5. Watched a great movie recently, The Prestige. Highly recommend!

6. Oh! And I'm pregnant! Yes, 4 weeks along and feeling fine. This was definitely a shock for us but that's OK. We're all very excited. June 10th is my due date as of now but I see the doctor next week. Chase has been taking it very well and seems to almost be getting it. We had a nice conversation about it and he seemed to understand. A little while after our conversation, however, he comes up to me and this is what transpired:
Chase: "Mommy, you have a baby in your tummy?"
Me: "Yes, that's right." *beaming that he caught on so quickly*
Chase: "So yummy! So yummy!"***
Me: "Hmmmm, maybe we need to review."
So yeah, he thinks I ate the baby apparently. We'll work on it a bit more.

That about wraps things up, other than the fact that we got haunted at The Elms Resort a few weeks ago. I think I'll save that story for Halloween though. OOOOOOOOOOOO! I bet you can't wait!

***If this makes no sense, please review the little green monster video in my previous post.

Yo Gabba Gabba

2007-09-06T18:34:00.000-07:00

Move over Bob the Builder, there's a new TV king in our home. Yo Gabba Gabba is rockin' our house something fierce. The characters are great and while the music sticks in your head for days and daaaayyyyys, it's actually NOT BAD. Watch this and get back to me tomorrow. Still stuck in your head? Yeah, we can sing it together.

Oh right, and the other cool thing? Chase likes it too. I'm so proud.

My life almost ended yesterday

2007-08-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

As I was pulling into my dad's driveway to pick up Chase yesterday, I noticed something in the path of my car. It was a short round tube, much like a toilet paper roll but I couldn't tell if it was metal or cardboard so I did my best not to run over it. I slowly got past it and as I got out of my car, I looked back to see what it was. I glanced and still couldn't really tell but I was in a hurry so I wasn't going to go back to look. I shut my car door and turned around to go inside and as I picked up my foot to take my first step, I happened to look down. I was about 3 inches from stepping on a snake!!! Oh my gosh, I can't even hardly type that without gagging. Now anyone that knows me, knows that I am DEATHLY afraid of snakes. I cannot look at them. Period. Having my foot so close to one's head is the stuff my nightmares are made of. I felt my heart leap out of my chest right that second. I screamed, turned quickly around and ran the other way. After hyperventilating for a good 30 seconds I finally got it out to Debbie why I was about to die. She calmly walked out and disposed of it. Later I found out the stupid thing was dead already. Really though, it doesn't make much difference to me. Even if I HAD known it was dead, I still would have panicked, I'm sure. Anyway, the whole time Chase is looking at me intently. I sat down on the couch and my sweet little son looked me straight in the eye and said, "Mommy, you're crazy." *sigh* I know, son, I know.

He was so excited

2007-08-22T06:05:00.000-07:00

He was so excited to be among all the shiny new toys.

Until I reminded him that we were at Jackson's birthday party and they were
Jackson's shiny new toys. It wasn't much fun after that.

Cousins

2007-08-15T06:38:00.000-07:00

What I have been doing

2007-07-26T08:01:00.000-07:00

We've been pretty busy lately but I'll spare you the wordiness and just show you in pictures.

Chase went to his first Royals game.

We celebrated my aunt's husband, Clayton's, 50th birthday.

We watched Gary's first parade in the Oriental Band as a Shriner on the Fourth of July.

I went to the lake with family last week.

Had some drinks...not as many as them, though.

And just because I can.

The 60s Walk it Out

2007-07-24T19:09:00.000-07:00

Ok,I'm way behind on updates about what I've been doing lately and really I should post about that but I HAVE to post about a video that has made me laugh nonstop recently. It's my duty to share this with the world. There is a STRONG possibility that most people have seen this already but I'm not about to take that chance.

The following video is a 60s dance routine by Bob Fosse, who apparantly was way ahead of his time. Anyway, the song is called "Mexican Breakfast", from what I gather. Watch a few moments of this but don't feel that you need to watch the entire thing. Just watch long enough to get a feel for it.

60s all the way, right? Well watch the same video below but this time it's set to "Walk it Out" by Unk. Seriously, it will brighten your day.

You're welcome.

Road Trip!

2007-07-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago we took a little summer vacation and had a great time. We went to Branson, MO and stayed in a 4 bedroom lodge along with my dad and stepmom; my sister Katie, her husband Gary, my nephew Jackson; and my sister Mandy, her fiance Tim and my nephew Ashtin. We had a really good time and other than Chase running a fever for part of the time, we really enjoyed it. However, I did not take too many pictures but I did want to share the ones I took.

This is my dad and my nephew Ashtin on the deck of our lodge. The boys adore my dad...

as well as my stepmom, Debbie.

Chase is finally big enough this year to ride some of the kids rides at Silver Dollar City.

But the puddles were a big hit too.

Well, that about wraps it up. Like I said, I didn't take many pictures this time. We all had a great trip, even if some of us were a little Grumpy by the end.

And oh yeah, I turned 30.

*cute cat to distract*

photo courtesy of www.lolcats.com

Now THAT kid has some timing!

2007-06-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

Today was the big day. Chase started preschool. *sigh* I'm not going to go into the fact that he ALSO had to start big boy underwear today because his school doesn't allow pullups but really I'm ok with that because we weren't getting anywhere with them anyway but I did have to bring 50 pairs of underwear and shorts because the kid will just NOT tell us when he needs to use the dang potty even though I KNOW he's a genius and that he's just being stubborn. But like I said, I'm not going there.

Instead, let me tell you how our morning drop off went. Wait. FIRST let me tell you how I EXPECTED it to go.

EXPECTED VERSION:
I take Chase to his classroom and he throws a crying fit, grabs my legs, pees his pants, refuses to let go and I have to peel him off me to make a mad dash to my car. There I sit sobbing in the parking lot for an hour while I can see him at the window still crying and wanting me to take him home. I finally make it to work where I have to leave early because I just can't take the pain. I rush to pick him up, find him still bawling uncontrollably and we decide we will just have to homeschool. A little dramatic? Hell, no.

REALITY:
I took Chase to his classroom and he immediately takes off for the toys. He was very excited to see the other kids and smiled at his new teacher, Miss Leah. I dropped off his belongings and asked him if he was going to be a good boy for Miss Leah. He replies "Yes" and continues moving some beans that Miss Leah had set out for them to work with later in the morning from one bowl to another. I told him to give me a bye-bye hug and kiss and that I had to go to work. I thought to myself, "Ok, this is where it all starts." He hugged me, kissed me and went right back to the beans. At that point I found MYSELF getting a little teary. I was appalled at myself and quickly stood up to shake it off. Miss Leah must have noticed because she said to me so sweetly, "He'll be just fine, don't cry." I gulped, told her thank you and walked out of the classroom.

As I was walking up the stairs to leave a little boy stopped me and asked me who's mommy I was. I told him and then he said to me, "You look very beautiful today." It was so sweet, so genuine and so thoughtful that it caught me completely off guard. I almost didn't notice my heart breaking. It was just what I needed.

Ode to the Bird Whisperer

2007-06-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a bit of drama in our front yard. Chase and I went outside to water the flowers and as I was happily spraying down my impatiens, Chase says, "Oh, Mama" and points. There was a tiny little baby bird just sitting there.

We got a good long look at him and then since I had no idea what to do with a baby bird, I told Chase not to touch him and I went back to watering. A few minutes go by and Chase says, "Oh, Mama, more birdies!" Sure enough, a whole nest of baby robins are in my front yard. Two were dead, sadly, but two had survived their fall from the tree. It had been a very windy day and the whole nest had just dumped these poor babies completely out of their warm little home.

By this time, I was full of guilt. I had to do something before a neighborhood cat came along and snatched up the other two. While I was standing there deciding what to do (and cursing Chuck for being at softball at the time), I saw a robin a few feet away from us with a worm in it's mouth. I thought that it might be the mommy robin so Chase and I went and sat on the porch. Sure enough, Big Mama came over and fed one of the babies. I felt like such a part of nature, right that second. Wild Kingdom in my front yard! Yeah, I don't bond with nature very often.

After leaving a nasty voice mail for Chuck, cursing him for not being home to do his manly duties, I do what any woman in my situation would do. I called my sister and had her make her husband come over to take care of it.

Within 30 minutes, Gary the Bird Whisperer had arrived. He knocked the upside down nest out of the tree and put the babies back in it.

Then he put them in a more secure part of the tree.

Meanwhile Big Mama watched from the neighbor's yard.

I took a peek at them this morning. They immediately chirped "Hello" at me. I even got another glance at Big Mama, who's still hanging around. I think we are all going to be just fine.

THANK YOU BIRD WHISPERER!

Toilets, Hogs, Boxes and Germans

2007-05-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

This was a big weekend for us, folks. One that will require multiple exclamation points. You've been warned. BIG WEEKEND! Guess what we did this weekend!! We pottied in the toilet for the first time!! Hoorayyy!!! No, not me. I'm very skilled in this area already. Chase! Chase pottied for the first time this weekend! I'm a proud mama and have been telling everyone. EVERYONE. He is embarrassed, of course.

So embarrassed in fact,that he decided to move out. He and Ashtin hit the open road and headed to his Papa's house.

Good thing his Papa had a wide assortment of boxes to make a home.

He shacked up with some German chick and has refused to take my calls. (Please note the fabulous home furnishing drawings... and the family self portrait. Skills, People, I have mad drawing skills.)

In the end, I promised to stop embarrassing him with my pride. He left that German bitch and moved back home. So I guess I'll stop gushing about it. Except for this one last time of course. Good job, Chase!!!!! Yay!!!!!!!!!

Purple Rain

2007-05-06T20:59:00.000-07:00

Um. Hi. What the hell just happened to the last month? My last post was seriously on April 12th? And today is May 6th? Wow. What have I been doing? *looks around* I have no idea. I really feel obligated to post something meaningful. But I have nothing at the moment. So let's do a recap of my weekend, shall we?

Friday at 5:00- Went to happy hour with some coworkers, had a few too many Vodka Tonics (VTs in the houuuuuse!) and may have asked a coworker to do something that she "just isn't comfortable with". So wudevah. It's never really stopped her before. Anyway the establishment had a "problem with their sewers" and we all know what a buzzkill that can be, so home I went.

Saturday - Woke up, took dog to vet, 250 dollars later came home and had lunch. Went tanning, bought hair color, came home. Had dinner, Chuck left to see his girlfriend, er, Gary, and then Chase and I went after ice cream. On the way there, Chase declared "Wait a minute! I have an idea!" He refused to share this idea with me. We ate ice cream, colored my hair, burned an awesome 80s cd with my recently fixed cd burner (seriously, I should be in the music industry with my mad mix tape skills), I watched "Night at the Museum", liked it, went to bed. Wow, ok, yeah that was boring. Sorry, should have skipped Saturday.

Sunday- Woke up to a thunderstorm hovering over our house that decided to remain there all day. Seriously I have a pool in my backyard as we speak. I could do some laps. I'm not sure what I did with my morning but my mom and I took Chase to see "Meet the Robinsons" at 3. It was his first movie. He ate popcorn off the floor. *sigh* We came home and sat our butts on the couch for the rest of the evening. Now I'm going to bed.

So there ya have it. Life has been a little unblogworthy lately. All my creativity has gone into my mixtape cds. You can't have it both ways, Readers. It's mixtape cds or blog. These 80s cds just don't burn themselves. All I know is I never meant to cause you any sorrow. I never meant to cause you any pain. I only wanted one time to see you laughing. I only wanted to see you laughing in the purple rain.

Hope Everyone Had a Happy Easter!

2007-04-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

Chase the Builder

2007-04-04T09:48:00.000-07:00

Chase's newest obsession lately has been Bob the Builder. It's a television show for kids on PBS about Bob (a builder, obviously), his talking machines and their daily adventures and lessons. It's not too bad of a show, the first 500 times you see it. Chase loves it so much however that he's even memorized the theme song and will sing it at any opportunity. It's a cute little song but unfortunately will stick in your head like a bad commercial. I finally caught him on video singing it and while it's very adorable, don't blame me when you find yourself singing it at unexpected moments. Just call me up and we can sing it together...like good friends should.

Bob the Builder, can we fix it?
Bob the Builder, yes we can!

Scoop, Muck, and Dizzy
Roley too
Lofty and Wendy, join the crew
Pilchard and Bird, Travis and Spud
Playing together, like good friends should!

Bob the Builder, can we fix it?
Bob the Builder, yes we can!

Happy Monday

2007-04-02T06:03:00.000-07:00

I have some Chase video that I'll be uploading in the near future (I hope) but in the meantime, here's something to make you smile on a Monday. It was forwarded to me and now I'm passing it on. It doesn't get much better than this.

You Never Even Call Me By My Name

2007-03-27T06:12:00.000-07:00

Chuck and my brother in law, Gary, cleaned out our basement this weekend to get rid of a bunch of junk that we've been hoarding for way too long now. They did a great job and I cannot even believe how much crap they were able to actually get rid of. It was an unsupervised job so really I have no idea exactly what they threw out, which does make me a bit nervous. I'm really trying not to dwell on it.

While they were down in the basement, they came across my old love letters from past boyfriends. Oh my. There was some funny stuff in there. When your sixth grade boyfriend professes his undying love to you, now that's just classic. Part of me is praying none of those boyfriends kept any of MY letters. I can only imagine.

However, Chuck and Gary decided to read a few of those without my knowledge, which is fine, but I always like to be able to defend myself in these type of situations. Chuck was concerned about a couple though and even brought one upstairs. As soon as I saw what it was, I quickly yanked it away from him. As I sat down to read it myself, Chuck seemed a little bothered and he mentioned that he needed to talk to me about that particular letter. And not in a good way.

I started reading it and groaned most of the way through it. It was from a boyfriend, Randy, that I had in middle school and it was particularly gooey. All about how much he looooved me and how I had made him a better person, yada, yada. We all know what was really on this boy's mind. As I'm reading it though, I wasn't getting what the issue was. I mean, yeah, it's another guy but Chuck's not really the type to be too concerned with some random boy from middle school. Then I got to end of the page. Randy signed it as "Brandy", which was my nickname for him. Chuck didn't know that. Chuck thought "Brandy" was a girl!! Chuck thought I was a middle school lesbian!

I laughed at him for quite a while but he was seriously concerned (and not in a good way, like I would have thought) that there was a part of my life that I had not ever told him about. Of course while he was looking through that old box of letters, he came across some letters from a boy named Aaron, except he spells his name "E-h-r-e-n". So that didn't help matters.

The one bright spot of the day was Gary, though. He promised me that if I had been a lesbian in middle school that he wouldn't judge me. I can always count on him.

It just isn't St. Patrick's Day without a good fight.

2007-03-21T06:03:00.000-07:00

St. Patrick's Day has always been one of my favorite holidays. It's a pretty big deal here in KC, for those who don't know. There's a huge parade through downtown and always a big celebration in Westport (an area downtown that has a bunch of different bars all within a few steps of each other) afterwards. It's been a big tradition for my friends and I to skip work that day and spend the day having a fabulous time.

The past couple of years, however, I just haven't been feeling it. The parade has gotten dangerous with riots and gang fights and I dunno, I guess I'm old and just don't want to take those kind of risks anymore.

But this year was different! My friends and I did skip the parade but decided to all meet up in Westport a bit later in the afternoon. Because we wanted to avoid the physical violence. Funny.

The meeting spot was supposed to be at The Cactus Cafe around 4ish. A small group of us met up outside the bar and waited in line for 30 minutes or so to meet up with the people who were already inside. We finally made it to the front of the line and as we were paying, a huge fight broke out inside the bar. I was far enough inside to get the hell out of the way but as the bouncers were kicking out about 15 different people, some of MY people got pushed around and scraped up a bit. It was minor but not the best first impression of the bar you are about to hang out in.

So we finally met up with the rest of our people and one of the girls phone rang. Well, come to find out, one of our friends was in the middle of that huge fight. Her husband had just been arrested and she was leaving with another friend of ours to go bail him out. This is NOT the way I like to start my day of partying, ok?

After all that drama, we headed to a different bar to change the atmosphere a bit. We ended up at the Beaumont Club and had a really good time until the very end. After quite a bit of drinking, one of our guy friends got into a huge fight with his brother's wife-it included some slapping. I didn't SEE this one happen but when I got back to where our group was, there was drama. His brother's wife had already left but it was still a bad situation.

IN BETWEEN those two dramatic events, we did really have a good time. I saw some people that I don't get to see very often, drank some beer that I don't get to drink very often and slept in that next day like I don't get to do very often. So overall, I'd give this year 4 stars. But NEXT year, we are making tshirts!

Vegas in Review

2007-03-06T09:11:00.000-08:00

It was brought to my attention this past weekend that I promised Vegas pictures here and did not deliver. Don't worry, I'm very disappointed in myself too. Without any further delay-VEGAS IN REVIEW! (Ok so, I admit, I don't have many. I don't think I took my camera out of my bag the entire time so I had to rely on friends. And they didn't take many either. And a lot of these? Yeah, they could have been taken anywhere. So basically, all you are getting are a few pictures of me and my friends. You are disappointed again, aren't you? *sigh* Well, I did go to San Antonio a few weeks ago and I got a picture that PROVES I was there. Maybe I'll post that one soon.)

Ok, this one was taken on the strip. How can you tell? Well by the big neon video sign behind us, of course! I could have sworn the Eiffel Tower at Paris was in the background of this picture but I guess not. Let's just say one of the highlights of this trip was being introduced to Mr. Vodka Tonic. I love him and he did show me a fabulous time. Even IF some of it is blurry... and missing an Eiffel Tower.

This one was taken in front of our hotel as we were headed to Studio 54 the first night. We look so sober. Awww. From left to right: Dru, Kristin, Julie, me and Jen.

Ok THIS one was taken AT Studio 54 - after we had been there for a while. Jennifer was in the process of spilling her cold drink down Julie's back. Julie screams as Jen says, "Ohhhh nooooooo!" I am obviously unfazed by the drama that is taking place around me. I think this is my favorite picture.

This one was also from Studio 54 and makes me laugh as well. Doesn't Julie's head look a little disembodied?

This next one is from Rain. It was a little smokey there, in case you hadn't noticed.

Finally, the picture you've all been waiting for. Those who have asked me time and time again, "Just what do your toes look like?" Well, here's the answer to your question. Now if you can just pick me out...

So, like I said previously, we had a fabulous time. I mean, really, Vodka Tonics and disembodied heads. What more can a girl ask for? Other than to have an Eiffel Tower show up now and then...

When Tiggers Attack

2007-02-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

The Accused

Exhibit A

The Victim

We've been having ongoing troubles with our cat, Tigger. He's been having seizures and we are in the process of trying to figure out why the hell it's happening. All of his tests come back normal and other than being very fat, he's healthy. When he has these seizures, sometimes he'll have little accidents so on Saturday when he started having one on my bed, I wanted to move him in case he had an accident. So I picked him up...in the middle of a seizure. I'm a genius. So of course, he proceeds to bite down on my thumbnail and wouldn't let go. Oh my damn, the pain and blood. So now I'm left with a bum thumb and a cat that's too cute to strangle. At least I got some good drugs. *sigh*

Detox

2007-02-05T07:04:00.000-08:00

I'm home and alive, but barely. The trip was the best ever and hopefully I'll have some pictures by the end of the week- I'm hoping to steal some from my friends. Though, I'm not sure how many are postable since the weekend was pretty much a blur. We'll see. Ok, I'm going back to bed now. I'm exhausted. I hope everyone had as great of a weekend as I did!

VEGAS BABY VEGAS

2007-02-01T06:17:00.000-08:00

So, today is my last day in this cold weather for a couple days. I'm off to visit some palm trees in Vegas! Cannot wait! We leave tomorrow at an ungodly time in the morning. And I volunteered to drive my 4 friends and myself to the airport. So that means I need to leave my house at... *counts on fingers*... yeah, 3:30 in the morning. *sigh* How the hell am I going to survive? Our plans are pretty exciting, including a "dance" class on Friday and clubs on Friday and Saturday. I MIGHT even gamble for a minute or two-we'll see. Hell, I'm just excited for the 60 degree weather! So, I'll be back Sunday and you can bet I'll have some good pictures to share of my wild friends... unless they are unflattering of me in any way, of course.

VEGAS BABY VEGAS!

My Little Snowman

2007-01-30T06:33:00.000-08:00

The snow is finally almost gone here, thankfully. I've never been a big snow person since I became an adult. As a kid, though, I loved it. All the snowmen, snowballs and the sledding-loved it. These days though, I'm usually pretty happy to see it go. However, there is one small thing that happened this year to make me enjoy it again. Chase discovered it.

I guess it's time to invest in a new pair of snow boots.

Whoever let the dogs out is going DOWN!

2007-01-23T10:42:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, my youngest sister Amanda decided that she would like to have her engagement party at one of our local bars this past Saturday the 20th. (Did I tell you she and Tim got engaged? They did!) A few weeks ago that sounded like a great idea and I've been looking forward to it, since it was a legitimate excuse to get an overnight babysitter and drink...heavily. So finally Saturday rolls around and guess what. Snow. Lots and lots of snow. So we called a cab, packed in and headed out, praying that we made it to where we were trying to go. Most of the invited guests backed out but there still ended up being a pretty good showing and we had an interesting night.

The beautiful bride-to-be:

We had lots of good Kodak moments thrown in there. Like this one with me, Brett, Katie and Mandy:

and this one with my sisters, my dad and me:

and Chuck was cuddly:

Mandy danced with my dad:

But then! Things got sloppy...

and kareoke was sung... ("Baby Got Back" to be specific)

and people did bad things to my father...

and then we danced... (to "Who let the Dogs Out" naturally)

And our friends went from looking like this:

To this:

And this:

So by this point, 1:00 am, I was tired and done. So we called the cab service and were told that it would be at least an hour. Well, ok, I thought. I figured that I could survive an hour or so wait. It wasn't THAT long ago that I stayed out a hell of a lot later than 2:00 in the morning so, no big deal. So 2:00 AM rolls around and no cab. Chuck calls the cab company and they say something along the lines of "Sorry, sir, we're really behind and we'll get to you as soon as possible." Ok. So 3:00am rolls around and the bar is closing! Still no cab in sight. So uh, what the hell were we supposed to do? There wasn't anyone that could come and get us that was close by PLUS they would have to drive us all the way out to our home which was NOT close to the bar we were at. And the weather was so horrible! So we decided to wait it out. At the CVS.

Here we are in the "lobby", as we were calling it, of CVS. It was cold, with no place to sit and definitely no outlets because we sure as hell would have bought a heater or microwave or something.

Cold Gary, Mandy and Tim to my left in CVS Lobby. Chuck was to my left also, just so close to me that you can't see him...because I was FREAKING COLD!

Cold/Drunk Katie to my right in CVS Lobby:

FINALLY, the cab shows up at 4 AM! 4 AM PEOPLE! I didn't get into bed until 5:00 AM! Yeah, I can't hang, I've decided. And I've decided that I'm ok with that. Just next time, someone please make me go home after "letting the dogs out".

Whoa! I'm not a freak!! I swear!!

2007-01-05T12:58:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it has come to my attention that ummm, one of the pictures that I was using in my favorite TV shows post was ummmm, replaced online by whoever I was borrowing the picture from. I deleted it too quickly to even see where I had originally got it but oh my. Let's just say the picture of what was supposed to be Studio 60 was not a picture of Studio 60. I did not have that picture intentionally placed there and I am so freaking embarrassed right now. So umm, lesson learned. Do not use other people's images. Period. Sorry for whoever saw it and was offended and you are welcome to whoever saw it and liked it.

More pictures, less words.

2007-01-04T11:50:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous Christmas/New Year/Chuck's birthday! I don't have much to report but I do have pictures!! I'll be back soon with something a little more wordy next time, maybe.

Here's Chase and I enjoying Christmas, even IF he was a little possessed at that moment.

Chase and I opening his favorite/my least favorite toy of the year. Yes, it's noisy.

Jackson is getting so freakin big! Here he is with my mom...

And lounging with my dad...

And snuggling his "pelt"...

And hangin' with Uncle Chuck.

Chase and Ashtin did NOT play well together this year. I'm sure a fight was brewing at this moment. Ashtin's already taken off his pants in preparation. He fights dirty.

Chase got a big boy bed from Santa. Here he is on Christmas morning checking it out.

And here he is telling me that I rock!

As if he needed to tell me.

Hope everyone's holidays were as great as mine!

My Current Favorite Websites (that I haven't plugged here before)

2006-12-15T07:29:00.000-08:00

Just so you know, I'm really anxious to do a Christmas present post but the problem is, a lot of people that I'm buying for, read this blog. I'm getting people some really cool things this year that I'm excited to tell about. So *sigh* I guess I'll just have to wait. So anyway, today we have 3 website reviews but these are cool too.

#1- Woot This is a shopping website that carries 1 product each day. "How boring" you say? Not at all. This one product is usually something pretty cool and it is HELLA CHEAP! I've only made one purchase from this website so far but it's a Christmas present for someone else. So I can't tell you about it. BUT let's just say they sell the same thing at Target for $300 and I got it for $150. I want one for myself so badly but that just isn't the Christmas way now is it? The one tip that I have about this website however is, don't read the comments. I'm not sure what kind of person comments on the Woot website but they are angry and never like the product for sale. Some of them are kind of strange too.

#2 Mamapop This one is a blog run by two ladies that are extremely funny. It's kind of a pop culture current events type blog and is oh so funny. It usually features YouTube videos that either a) make me laugh or b)cry like a baby. You must check this out.

#3 The Warholizer You can upload a picture and it turns it into your very own Warhol and a really cool addition to your MySpace...if you are into that kind of thing that is. Which I am.

Ok, so that's it. That's what I've been doing for the past month or so. Hope you find them as interesting as I do.

Top 10!

2006-12-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

Ok, ok, you can all stop with the emails already! Fine! I get it! You are desperate to know my top 10 favorite shows on television at this moment. Ok. Stop with the hounding. I got the message.

#10 My Name is Earl- I really liked this show in the beginning. It was funny and new and cracked me up. This season however, I dunno. It's lost it's shine for me. We still watch it but, well, that's why it's at the bottom of the list.

#9 Medium- I like this show despite the fact that it's pretty much the same week after week. Somehow it's still good. That takes talent...or maybe it just feeds my dark side.

#8 Aqua Teen Hungerforce- Ok, I'll admit it. I'm a nerd. A big nerd who watches a basically obscure cartoon about some fast food on Cartoon Network. Go ahead make fun all you want but trust me, if you watch it, you will laugh too. I love me some Master Shake and that's all I'm going to say about that.

#7 Wheel of Fortune- Ok, I know you all are about to stop reading this post right now but trust me, it gets more respectable. I just couldn't live with myself for not adding a show that we watch every night. Pat Sajak is snarky in his heart. And that's why I love him. Especially when he bitch slaps the contestants for yelling their letters. I love it.

#6 Saturday Night Live- Even though I'm still in mourning over losing Tina Fey, the other cast members are still great and the show still continues to be one of the best.

Oooooh, we're down to the top 5. The suspense!

#5 ER- I lost track of ER for quite a few years but came back to it around 3 years or so ago. Maybe it got good again, maybe I had just forgotten but it's such a good show. Blood and guts, funny, sexy, occasionally heart warming, this show has a good mix.

#4 Desperate Housewives- Eh, ok, what can I say that hasn't been said by a million others. It's a great show, we're hooked, nuff said.

#3 Studio 60- Now this is a show near and dear to my heart currently. I have to say that I was a West Wing fan formerly so I was already predisposed to the quick paced and witty rhythm of this show. But the characters? Adorable and hilarious. It's the dry humor that I love and I'm praying this show stays on the air. From what I hear, it's struggling and that really breaks my heart so now I will do my duty. WATCH STUDIO 60 FOR THE LOVE OF GOD! If you are already watching this show and saw it this week, don't you just love the new plotline with Danny and Jordan??? I love where this is going and my heart may have melted just a little while watching.

#2 Grey's Anatomy- Yes, I know, another shocker but what can I say? It's well written and well cast and well, just great all around.

#1 The Office- Oh my, I love this show. It is so funny that it's almost too much to handle sometimes. We do not miss an episode. Ever. And the episode where Jim sends Dwight a fax on Dwight's own letterhead to convince Dwight that it's a fax his future self is sending him? I may have mentioned to Chuck that in another life, I would have married Jim. Pam? Get it together girl. Oh right, I forgot to add that Pam is one of my Myspace friends and I regularly read her blog. Ok, so now you can no longer doubt my loyalty. Dinkin' Flicka.

So, that's it, my top 10. I hope everyone is satisfied. But wait! Of course you can have a bonus..

Bonus: 24 The only reason it is not in the top 10 is because it's not back with it's new season yet. Otherwise, you know where it would be.

I'm only allowing myself one "poor me" entry a year so today is your lucky day.

2006-12-05T11:58:00.000-08:00

Well, let's see, where to begin. I think this all began with winter deciding to make it's appearance here last week. Yes, I definitely think I will blame this all on winter. First came the ice, then came the snow and then Chuck wrecked his truck...into his coworkers car. His parking lot at work was a solid sheet of ice and well, things happen. Everyone is fine but the vehicles are not. They are both requiring repair but his coworker is being awesome about it. We owe him a beer... or three.

Then Chase got the flu. Oh my. That was not fun. Puking and diarrhea are not welcome guests in my home. Especially out of the one member of our family who isn't yet aware of the toilet but who is capable of eating Taco Bell. Ok, yes, I admit, giving him Taco Bell was my idea. Sometimes I'm just dumb, alright? But I seriously thought the puking was over. Still though, in retrospect, very dumb. By the next day he was better but by that night, yours truly was sleeping in her least favorite room in her house. The room that you know its bad news if you have a pillow and blanket in it. I've been miserable. I'll spare you the details but let's just say that 36 hours and two missed days of work later I'm beginning to think I'll survive. These moments in my life are when I'm so glad that I'm married to a great guy. He's been taking care of EVERYTHING so I can just lay (lie?) around and complain about how I hurt. Yeah, his life hasn't been so easy lately. So that just leaves him left to get this nasty bug and so far so good. *knocks on desk that I'm not completely sure is made of real wood* *thinks about it* *knocks on chair that I know for sure is made of real wood* I really don't want him to get this, folks. I'm not sure how he's dodged this bullet so far but whatever he's doing is working. The good news to all of this is that I've lost 9 pounds-yahoo! Now all I have to do is keep up this diet of nothing and I'm golden. I'll be in those pre-wedding jeans by next week! Yeah, I don't have high hopes either. Alright, I'm out. Thank you to everyone that's been calling to check up on me. Even though it's just the flu, it means a lot. Sap over, I'm out.

Flinstones, Gnomes, Going Mental and Stealth

2006-11-13T13:08:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: This post is full of random thoughts. If you're looking for something of value, eh, today's not the day. However, if you are looking for further evidence of my decreasing sanity, well here ya go.

Crushed Dream #87
Our pediatrician recommended recently that we start Chase on vitamins, which I had been considering for a long time but had yet to purchase them. So at the drug store this past weekend, Chuck and I bought a bottle of Flintstones vitamins just like the ones I used to take as a kid. To be honest, I was a little excited. I looooved those vitamins as a kid. They were so yummy that I would have taken the whole bottle given half the chance. I just knew that Chase would love them too and I was dreading the fight that I knew would be coming soon. He would quickly learn the word "vitamin" and be begging for them everyday. When we got home one of the first things we did was open that bottle of vitamins. I broke one in half, per the doctor's orders, and gave it to Chase. He quickly put it in his mouth, turned to walk away but then stopped dead in his tracks. In one quick motion, he took the half of Barney out of his mouth and threw it to the floor and then said, "Blech! caca!" I was mortified...for both the correct use of "caca" and for the hatred of the Flintstones. Sadly, I ate the rest of Barney and quickly spit the thing out as well but my choice of words weren't as nice as "caca". In case you are ever curious, they are not good. I repeat...NOT GOOD. I'm not sure if I got a bad bottle or if they've changed the formula or if I got some crazy special kind but NOT GOOD.

Office Gnomes
My elbow has twitched all day and it will not stop. Not sure why but it's driving me crazy. I keep thinking someone is touching me.

"8675309" Sounds Vaguely Familiar
Our password for our computers here at work for the past six months have been a set combination of things that include 4 digits out of our social security numbers. We set these up for ourselves when we logged in the first time. Last week I realized that the social security numbers that I have been using for the past six months were 4990**. Those numbers appear nowhere in my social security number. No where. And they mean nothing to me. I think I'm going crazy.
**Yes, I've since fixed it, so Hackers? Back off.

Our Cat-like Stealth
So, we saw a mouse in our garage yesterday. I saw it and froze. And then called for Chuck, who saw it and froze. It's a good thing that mouse was already dying (or maybe it froze too) because it would have been long gone before we pounced into action. The poor thing allowed Chuck to go and pick it up (with the proper equipment of course) and throw it into the neighbors yard. Our neighbors already don't like us, don't worry. Poor mouse but yay us! Maybe he had found that half of the discarded Flinstones vitamin.

When Zombie Stepmothers Attack

2006-11-03T06:14:00.000-08:00

This year for Halloween we decided to take Chase up to our local mall for trick or treating (because it was cold. and we are lazy. and he didn't know the difference).

Our first stop was at my dad's house to visit my stepmom, eat a quick dinner and get dressed. Little did we know, a roaming pack of zombies had beaten us there.

We were all happy to be there and enjoyed our visit. Trisha, Adin and Ben even came by to say, "Hi".

Chase and Chuck were even enjoying themselves...

when she appeared. (Please note that Jackson, in the background, couldn't care less.)

The kids scrambled to get away. Well, except for Ben who was just fine with being attacked by a zombie, I guess.

The kids were brave and fought off the wicked zombie so we headed off to the mall, as most people do after they've destroyed a zombie or two. It was pretty uneventful other than Chase refused to hold his bucket out for the people to put the candy directly into it.

The highlight of the evening, however was getting to meet the famous Abby Cadabby.

All in all, it was a fun evening. And since Chuck and I are such nice parents, we even let him have one piece of candy before we ate the rest.

The end

One of these things is just like the other.

2006-10-25T08:42:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry for the delay in doing Chase's birthday post but this past weekend was a rough one. Not only did Chase turn 2 this weekend, we also lost my grandfather to cancer. So it's been hard deciding which one to post about. It just felt wrong posting about one and not the other. Since Chase (and I) wouldn't be here if it weren't for my grandfather, doing both in one post seems right, in the end.

I love you and will miss you, Grandpa. Thank you for all you've ever done for us, which was so much.

Chase's two years in review:

October 2004

November 2004

December 2004

January 2005

February 2005

March 2005

April 2005

May 2005

June 2005

July 2005

August 2005

September 2005

October 2005

November 2005

December 2005

January 2006

February 2006

March 2006

April 2006

May 2006

June 2006

July 2006

August 2006

September 2006

October 2006

Happy Birthday Chase!

Shakin' it like a Salt Shaker

2006-10-15T14:12:00.000-07:00

This morning Chase and I decided to clean out his bedroom of outdated toys and clothes. With his birthday coming next weekend, we (I) figured it was probably time. While spending all this time in his room, Chase came across a toy that he hasn't played with in a while and was so excited. It's a little basketball goal and each time something goes through the hoop, music plays or people cheer. Chase quickly figured out that you only have to hit the little lever with your hand to make the music play. As you will see in the video below (assuming YouTube has decided to be kind today), I think what they say is definitely true. He is a dance, dance, dance, dance, dancin' machine. Watch him get down.

By the way, Chong the cat does not enjoy Basketball Music Playing Toy. And yes, during the video I may have given him a little tap (I did not say "kick") around the one minute mark to stop the meowing. You'll notice it only worked temporarily.

If you're gonna do it, do it right.

2006-10-06T07:12:00.000-07:00

Wednesday Chase and I went with my sister, Katie, and my nephew, Jackson, to visit my dad at his fire station downtown. Chase loves to go and see the huge fire trucks. So we were enjoying our visit when I got a sniff of something foul. I very nicely asked Chase if he had a dirty diaper. He looked at me, rolled his eyes and said, "Oh God! Poopy Diaper!" I of course was highly embarrassed and promptly reminded him that we don't ever say, "Oh God" but that he should always follow it up with "Damn" if he wants to do it right.

Living the Rock Star Life....Assuming the Rock Star is 90 years old.

2006-09-25T07:25:00.000-07:00

Ew. Two weeks without a post? Let's see, what exciting things have been going on with me? Hmmm. Yeah, nothing. But it seems that I've been so busy. I guess just busy with non-blogable things. So, you are stuck with a boring post. I could tell you about how I made a complete fool of myself in the parking lot this morning or how I made a complete fool of myself in front of the speaker that was giving a coding seminar last week. But, maybe another day. However, I'm only working two days this week and then Chuck, Chase and I are off to Omaha to go to the zoo. So when we return, I'll have much more to say. That is of course, unless I make a fool of myself in front of the giraffes.

Prisoner vs. The Pink Blob

2006-09-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

The prisoner, sensing his chance, leaps into his Limited Edition Sky King and desperately tries to make his getaway!

But alas, a pink beast emerges from the fog to bring this fugitive back to his captors. Her grasp of the back of his neck is just too powerful.

"Stand back, evil ogre!" shouts the prisoner. "I will force this comb upon your nappy hair if you do not get back!"

Sadly though, the prisoner was no match for the Pink Blob. He finds himself back behind bars later that day.

A Word to the Wise...

2006-09-05T05:57:00.000-07:00

If one day you decide that you are really out of the loop and should really be watching the TV show "24" and you put it in your Netflix queue, when you receive it, DO NOT watch episode after episode and then immediately go to bed. All night you will dream of being trapped in your ex boyfriend's home, while knowing that HE IS ACTUALLY THE ONE TRYING TO BLOW UP L.A. AND MY GOD I MUST TELL JACK BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE! L.A. IS GOING TO BE BOMBED, PEOPLE! WHY CAN I NOT FIND THE RIGHT KEY TO GET OUT OF THIS HOUSE?? (Why I need a key to get OUT of the house, I'm not sure. Last time I checked, you only needed a key to get IN, but whatever.) So, keep that in mind next time you want to have a "24" marathon before bed. Saving the world is very stressful.

I'm going to Jackson...

2006-08-28T06:44:00.000-07:00

Jackson Wayne Campbell is here!! He was born Saturday morning at 9:03. He weighed 7 pounds and 12 ounces and was 21 1/2 inches long. We couldn't be happier!

Proud Aunt Tiff

Proud Uncle Chuck

Legacy Farm

2006-08-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

We went to visit Chuck's family this weekend. They board and show horses so Chase always loves to visit their farm. They have such beautiful horses and they just bought a new one this weekend. We had a great time and they fed us brownies and ice cream. We might just move in, if they aren't careful.

Speckles is the new one:

This is one of their newer babies.

This is Chase's practice horse...

but this one is his favorite.

Video! We have video!

2006-08-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

So here's my first attempt at video. Now I feel the need to give fair warning here, my bedroom is a mess. There are shoes strung everywhere and there is just a general appearance of messiness and I do apologize, however, this is just too much cuteness not to share with the world. And just so you know I'm not a complete pig, the shoes are everywhere because of the little man in the following video. He loves our shoes and empties our closet any chance he gets. My house isn't usually this disgusting but my son IS usually this cute. Next time I promise I'll pay much more attention to lighting and background. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do!

Well, I do apologize. It looks as though You Tube, the site that is hosting my Chase video, has chosen today to be the day that they do some maintenance to their site. Of course. So, if you are reading this post and you don't see the video below, it's because You Tube is still down. Hopefully it will be back soon...or else I might cry.

You can't say that he isn't learning.

2006-08-14T14:32:00.000-07:00

Recently we've been working with Chase on how to be kind to animals...mainly our pets...whose tails he loves to yank...and whose fur he likes to pull. Now I'm not going to point any fingers but I know a certain cat who has some patches of fur missing. So when he's being rough with them, we'll firmly tell him, "No, Chase. Be nice to kitty. Niiiiiice to kitty." as we are showing him how to pet nicely.

One of Chase's favorite games right now, other than pulling on our pets, is to pounce on his father. He counts to 3 and then jumps onto Chuck usually getting the desired result of an "oomph" from Chuck as the 1 year old lands on his gut. Chase loves this. It always makes him laugh so of course, he does it again. and again. and again. And when he's finished, I make him do it some more because I think it's funny too. And really, it's giving Chuck's abs a workout if you think about it. Chase gives him fair warning with a 1, 2, 3 count so he has time to prepare for the pounce by tightening those muscles. It's a win-win situation.

So last night, Chase was making his nightly pouncing rounds and all was well until he missed. He pounced a little lower on his father's body. Needless to say, this did not go over well. The sound that came out of Chuck's mouth sent Chase looking for cover. He found my lap and I held him as his dad assumed the fetal position and tried to catch his breath. As Chuck was in his own world of pain, Chase just watched with big eyes and the saddest little frown. I held him close, told him it was ok and repeated a few times that he needed to be gentle with Daddy. After a few minutes of rocking himself back and forth, Chuck finally came back to Earth. Chase went straight over to him, looked him in the eye, and petted Chuck's leg while saying, "Niiiiiice Daddy".

I think he's finally catching on.

Shutterfly, oh Shutterfly, how I love you, Shutterfly.

2006-08-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

Today I'm going to sing the praises of my favorite online photo center, Shutterfly. I've been using this website to upload my digital pictures for quite a while now. I upload to them, pay a processing fee and they send me my pictures. Obviously my activity has increased with them over the past couple years due to the high level of cuteness going on at my house (see below).

From time to time, they email specials they are having (discounted prints, free shipping, etc.)and sometimes they'll even email me free things (prints, 8x10s, etc.). Recently however, they have gone above and beyond, which is why I am singing their praise today. They are giving me a free hardbound photo book and I'm so excited I good spit! (and I don't spit so that should just tell you how damn happy I am). I've been coveting these for quite a while but just haven't been able to justify it. Now I'm no fool. I'm fully aware that Shutterfly knows that I will be addicted to these now and will look for any possible reason to make one. It's true but...well, I'm still happy as hell and if all goes smoothly, these might just be what people get for Christmas.

Wahoo! Thank you Shutterfly!

Those smiles...

2006-08-02T06:15:00.000-07:00

Due to heartbreaking circumstances, my sister-in-law and my nephews are moving home from Texas. Even though it's not the ideal situation, I have to admit that I'm excited to see them. Please wish them the best of luck!

A Small Glimpse into my Future as a Little League Mom

2006-07-27T10:47:00.000-07:00

If it's going to bring me these kind of smiles, I'll take it.

A Cuddly Moment for a Crappy Monday

2006-07-24T06:46:00.000-07:00

The Beast Begins to Take Form

2006-07-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

*Click here for the previous post on this topic.*

Those First Sweet Little Phrases

2006-07-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

The first time Chase repeated exactly what I had just said was cute. I had just seen him for the first time that morning and had said "Hey buddy!" He repeated it back to me in that sweet baby voice and I melted.

The second time, after I had just yelled "F*cking Idiot!" at another driver, it wasn't as sweet. However it was nice to know that he had my back.

High on a Hill was a Lonely Tarzan

2006-07-11T06:29:00.000-07:00

I spent this past weekend with my sisters and my stepmother's side of the family at The Lake of the Ozarks. We do this one weekend out of every summer and let me just say, it's always a good time. These ladies know how to have a good time and by a good time, I mean they know how to drink, gossip, and tell each other how beautiful they are and how gorgeous their wedding ring is. So, I'm usually the most sober one out of the weekend because SOMEONE needs to know how to spell 9-1-1 if the need should arise...therefore I get some pretty decent pictures. Well, um, not this year. I drank a little more than usual this time and may or may not have debated whether or not Tarzan was a yodeler or not... once or twice. It gets deep, let me tell you. I did however manage to take a few pictures and I think they accurately convey how I was feeling Saturday night.

I'll start off with this picture of my sister, Katie. It's the best one that I took, if that tells you anything. She looks very happy to be seated next to me, doesn't she?

This next one is my sister, Amanda, who probably didn't enjoy my camera in her face but was too smart to tell me. I've crushed her spirit as only a big sister can do, one too many times.

Next comes my stepmother Debbie and her mother. I'd tell you what they were doing but it's a top secret lake tradition. The picture is still amusing however.

My cousin Lara is a pretty big instigator in these type of situations so while I'm not sure exactly what was going on in this picture, I'm sure it was instigating of some type.

Now I debated on whether or not to post this next picture, I really did. I decided that it needed to be done but I must warn you that it's not for the faint of heart. If there are children in the room, please tell them to turn their heads because well, it's graphic. I caught on film what many have labeled "Demon Flathead". Yes, it's true. Now if the children are out of the room, please scroll down and you will witness the infamous Demon Flathead.

...

...

...

Ok, well assuming you all survived that last one, there is one final picture from the weekend and if you can name where in the house this is located and why I took the picture-a virtual cookie to you. Because, really, I can't remember why. I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend as much as I did and if no one has told you already-you are beautiful and your wedding ring is gorgeous!

Happy Fourth of July!

2006-07-04T06:31:00.000-07:00

He looks so thrilled to be sitting still for two seconds, doesn't he? I honestly tried to get a great shot of him, hoping to truly capture the essence of the Fourth. No such luck so we're stuck with this one. Hope everyone had a happy one!

Evelyn Celeste Miller

2006-07-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

A year ago today I heard the news that a beautiful little five year old girl had been abducted from her home in Iowa. She was missing and everyone feared the worst. Those fears were confirmed a short time later when her lifeless body was found. That innocent little girl was the niece of my friend, Brandi. As of today, Evelyn's killer...that monster is still among friends. He's still among his family. He still enjoys sunlight and a bed of his own choosing. He still walks free and enjoys whatever he calls his life.

Over the past year, I've watched as Brandi has dealt with the cruel things a murder victim's family goes through. I've seen all the disappointments in not arresting the murderer, all the hope and letdowns and the desperation to find some sort of closure and justice. I've watched all the guilt and what-ifs and self blame that good people torture themselves with. It's been heartwrenching. No one should have to endure this.

No matter what happens in the future though, it seems the biggest fear has been forgetting-forgetting what a beautiful innocent creature Evelyn was, forgetting her smile, her voice, her laugh and forgetting the special moments that they shared with her. Not to mention the fear of the public forgetting about her story...and that her killer is still free.

As I started to write this post, I wanted to find the words to make a difference. I wanted to say something bold and groundbreaking and somehow healing. I soon found that I don't have those words... but I do have words that help remember which will someday lead to healing.

Evelyn Celeste Miller was a beautiful five year old girl, that deserved so much more.

Evelyn in Brandi's wedding as she walked with the ringbearer.

Donations may be made to:
Evelyn Miller Memorial Fund
First Security Bank & Trust
809 Clark St., PO Box 577
Charles City, IA 50616

Tag, now I'm it.

2006-06-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, so my good pal Erin has tagged me with a Meme and since I don't have time to upload all the pictures and write all the posts that I have, here goes...

7 Things I Want to Do Before I Die

Skydive (which I'm aware might actually cause me to die-so maybe I'll save that one for last)

Visit Paris, Rome, London and Branson.

Go on safari.

Scuba dive.

Know that I've made a difference.

See my children succeed happily.

Make my parents proud.

7 Things That Attracted Me to My Partner

His sense of humor.

His kindness.

His good looks.

His morals.

His work ethic.

His ability to name every show, movie, or commercial even the most obscure actor has been in.

His collection of tennis shoes.

7 Books I Read Over and Over

Ummm, errrr, I'm not sure that I've ever read the same book twice. Does that make me a bad person?

7 Movies That I Love

The Princess Bride

To Kill a Mockingbird

Breakfast at Tiffany's

Shawshank Redemption

Young Frankenstein

O' Brother Where Art Thou

I could really go on and on...

7 Things I Can't Do

Say "social security" successfully in one try.

Stay up past midnight.

Watch scary movies.

Stand Owen Wilson.

Grow my hair long.

Touch, be near, look at, talk about, or listen to someone else talk about snakes.

Sleep with my feet (or other body part) hanging off the bed due to the thing that lives under my bed. I'm convinced that there is something.

Make a grammatically correct post-not even to save my life.

29 and holding...

2006-06-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

Setting fashion trends year after year since June 21, 1977.

Baby Hypnosis

2006-06-16T08:59:00.000-07:00

The captive is trying desperately to escape from this babygate prison. He wants you to look deep into his eyes...deep into his eyes...you are getting sleepy....sleepy....sleeeeeeeepy...YOU NEVER MIND THIS BLANKIE SOAKED IN ETHER...sleeeeepy....sleeeepppppyyyyy...

The Best Care in the Air

2006-06-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

Chuck and I flew Midwest Express on our most recent trip and let me just say, I loved it. I was in airplane heaven, I tell you. I loved it so much that I took pictures, while actually on the plane. Yes, Chuck was embarrassed but he's getting used to it. So that leads us to my latest entry entitled...

Why I Love Midwest Express or Why I Stopped Complaining About the Little Extra We Had to Pay:

#1- They have big leather seats with adjustable headrests.

#2- Those headrests fold open so I can sleep without resting my head on the stranger next to me.
The photo that was previously displayed here has been removed to make room for new pictures but trust me, you would have been impressed.

#3- They have footrests!!! I could prop my feet up!!

The photo that was previously displayed here has been removed to make room for new pictures but trust me, you would have been impressed.

#4- They gave us warm cookies!

The photo that was previously displayed here has been removed to make room for new pictures but trust me, you would have been impressed.

So needless to say, next trip, we are definitely flying Midwest Express again and that's great news if you happen to sit next to me and don't enjoy drool on your shoulder.

Chains of Water

2006-06-07T07:14:00.000-07:00

Today the captive finds himself in a pool of cold water. This must be a form of punishment after his failed attempt at escape the previous day.

The captor paces aimlessly back and forth in the yard behind him, forever pushing a loud machine while creating paths in the grass. If the captive times his escape just right, he might just succeed at this attempt.

As if the captor sensed his plot, the ultimate in torture begins.

There is nothing worse than bubble torture. The escape plan will have to wait for another day.

Chase's Life Lesson #1

2006-06-06T05:46:00.000-07:00

Lesson #1- Cats make excellent pillows...

especially if the pillow is a willing participant...

and declawed.

The Beginning of the End

2006-06-05T05:54:00.000-07:00

I will keep you updated on the enemy's progress.

Hello. My name is Paulie Walnuts and I am a tail biter.

2006-06-01T06:57:00.000-07:00

Imagine you are a kitten named Paulie Walnuts. Your life is good. One minute, you're minding your own business, happily enjoying a romp through your home and an occasional nibble on the end of your tail.

The picture that was previously displayed here has been removed to make room for new pictures. Trust me, you would have been impressed.

The next minute you find yourself at the vet's office and he saying that you need part of your tail amputated. You aren't quite sure what that means but man...you are getting sleepy. Then you make it home, rouse yourself out of a drug induced coma, decide to go for a little tail nibblin' and...what the f*#k? You find a plastic tube over the end of your tail! And it's shorter!

The picture that was previously displayed here has been removed to make room for new pictures. Trust me, you would have been impressed.

Paulie Walnuts needs a drink.

The picture that was previously displayed here has been removed to make room for new pictures. Trust me, you would have been impressed.

Hurry, hurry, drive the firetruck...

2006-05-31T14:03:00.000-07:00

Chase and Ashtin visit "Pa" at the fire station. "Pa" promptly puts them to work. Don't worry, they put their helmets on once they got to the fire.

Why I love my friend, Holly...

2006-05-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

She's got fashion sense...

She knows how to party...

She's not above public humiliation...

She's trusting enough to let me near that awesome necklace that she knows I'm willing to steal off her neck...

But mostly because she's beautiful inside and out...

Congratulations Holly and Kevin!

It's getting deep in here.

2006-05-22T12:31:00.001-07:00

So it's probably been pretty obvious that I've been having some writer's block lately. But never fear! I decided to reach out to some friends and get some ideas. One suggested a meme- which is, thank you Leen, "an idea that is spread from blog to blog". Well, I liked that idea and decided to steal it, er, I mean USE it. So I googled and thanks to Curious as a Cat I decided on this question:

If you could only repent for one thing when you die, what one thing would you choose?

It really got me thinking because there are so many things in my life that I've done that I partially regret and I know were "the wrong choice". Things like leaving college, not studying harder, borrowing money, spraying bug spray in my little sister's mouth...but really all of those things shaped who I am today and I must say, I'm pretty happy with my life. I have a decent job, a husband that I adore, a fabulous son, I'm healthy, and I have good friends. Sometimes I think, even IF I felt badly enough to repent some of those things, I don't think I would. What if one of those relatively minor things completely shaped my life and I don't even know it? For example, if I had stayed in college, would I have met my husband? Would I have made these great friends? Would my sister be able to keep mosquitoes away with a deep exhale? The answer is likely, "no". So how can I regret those things?

However, there still is one thing I wish I hadn't done and would repent for because deep down, I regret it terribly. When I was a teenager, I treated my family like crap. Yes, it's true. I was selfish, thought the world owed me, and it completely revolved around me and my wants and needs. **Contrary to popular belief, that is no longer the case.** Now, I wasn't flat out disrespectful or hurtful, by any means. But just the lack of compassion for my family members when they probably really needed me, is enough. Those years just seem like such a black hole when I look back. I think about the relatives that I've lost recently and how much I would give to get those years back with them. It seems like such a waste. There's not many things that I hate more than wasted time. Life is just too short.

So that's my repent-what's yours? Pass it on.

Ramble on

2006-05-19T06:13:00.000-07:00

**Disclaimer: This post will probably be very boring but I just have had no interesting inspiration lately so if you would like to just skip to the cuteness at the end, I wouldn't blame you.

What is it about the weather getting warm that makes my schedule break loose? It's like this every year. The sun comes out for a minute and suddenly my schedule is full every day of the week (or at least the weekend). Don't get me wrong, I enjoy it. But I also enjoy things like...oh, I don't know... sitting down? Writing in my blog? (I know, I've been a terrible writer lately) We have and had something officially planned for every Saturday from the beginning of May until the end of June. Between barbecues, holidays, birthdays, vacations and just parties in general-we are booked!

Speaking of vacations-we leave for Orlando next week. My oh so fabulous friend Holly (she lives in the Virgin Islands) gets married next week and I am in it! This girl has us partying nonstop from Friday to Sunday. Seriously? I don't know how I'll keep up. Chuck and I will be the ones to go home early every night-I'm embarrassed to admit. We are lightweights. There I said it. It's true that 4 years ago I used to drink 3 nights out of the week. But now? Maybe once a month. Maybe. If I get all wild and crazy and feel like a beer. So I'm expecting to fully embarrass myself on this trip-in front of all of Holly's friends. Yes, after 3 drinks-I'm done. I know you can't wait for pictures.

Also while in Orlando, we are going to squeeze in a trip to see The Mouse, of course. The dilemma is, I'm not sure which park to go to. Chuck and I were just there 2 years ago and went to 4 of the parks. We really enjoyed all of them and can't decide whether to go back to one that we went to last time or to go to one that we didn't make it to. There is even one that I've never been to-Epcot. *sigh* Decisions, decisions.

Did I mention that I totally screwed up our plans and came damn near a nervous breakdown last week? Oh yeah, it was great. So our plans since the end of February (or March-whenever it was)or so have been to head to Orlando on Thursday, do all the rehearsal parties on Friday, wedding on Saturday and head home on Sunday after checking out and returning our rental car. Well, late last week, I got an Evite inviting me to the rehearsal dinner on Saturday evening. After peeing my pants and saying a few prayers, I asked Holly what day exactly her wedding was on. You guessed it. It's on Sunday. So after scrambling to change our flight and hotel and car and babysitting arrangements and dropping a considerably large additional amount of money, we are now coming back on Monday-which should have been our plan from the start. They say that you should really pay attention to details but I just don't have time for that rubbish. *flips hair*

So to summarize, summer=busy, Orlando trip=drunk, The Mouse=dilemma, trip planning =nervous breakdown, Tiff=goodbye.

Cuteness to make this post actually worth your time:

Going to my happy place.

2006-05-11T15:03:00.000-07:00

The photo that was previously displayed here has been removed to make room for new pictures.

Orbs. I see orbs.

2006-05-08T08:51:00.000-07:00

Hi! *waves madly* I'm back! My trip was wonderful! My mother, my sister and I went to Georgia to visit family and do a little Savannah sight seeing as you might remember from here. The trip was great, my great aunt was fabulous, the weather was perfect, the food was to die for and the shopping was decent. I'll be giving a more in depth review later this week but let's just cut to my favorite part of the trip...the ghosts.

We went on a ghost tour while in Savannah and let me just tell you, it was creepy. At the time it didn't seem too bad. Mostly though, I think it was due to our tour guides. They were a little on the cheesy side. The thing is though, now AFTER THE FACT when I tell people about it and SHOW them what I have, I pee myself a little.

The tour started on a trolley that drove us around Savannah at night. The tour guide told us all about the man who killed children while he was alive and then even after he had been executed. It wasn't a pleasant story. This was all on our way to our first destination, Colonial Park Cemetery. Here are a couple of pictures from that stop, which I will be coming back to momentarily. *insert eerie music here*

This was our ghostly tour guide through the cemetery. I'm still a little suspicious of the woman in the polka dotted shirt. That shirt is just too ugly to be from this dimension.

And this is a terribly dark picture of the cemetary itself. Yes, I know it's too dark to see, but I'm coming back to this in a minute.

So after the cemetery we boarded back on the trolley and headed for the Sorrel Weed House. The story behind this house is basically the woman of the house found her husband cheating on her with a servant. She immediately ran up to her second floor bedroom and flung herself from her window, plummeting to her death. Two weeks later, the servant was found hanging from a rope tied to a tree in the back yard. Was it suicide from her guilt? Or was it murder by ghost? Mwahahahahahaaha!

Don't let that innocent palm tree and sunny sky fool you, it was down right evil in the dark:

We were told that the Sci Fi Channel's Ghost Hunters had taped their Halloween special here just last year. They caught the screams of the woman on tape, even though you couldn't hear a thing in real life. "Electronic Voice Phenomena" is what they call it and it was C-R-E-E-P-Y. They of course played it for us in the dark creepy house and whether or not it was real, I do not know but it made the hair on the back of my neck stand up. So, I'm going to go with, yes, it was real.

After the Sorrel Weed house we got back on the trolley, heard some more ghost stories and then headed back to our stop. We quietly got off our trolley and headed back for the car.

Once safely back in our hotel room, I got out my camera and took a closer look at my cemetery pictures. Yep, you guessed it. Orbs. I have orbs in my pictures. Now I thought surely there were water spots on my camera lens and I just didn't notice them earlier. But no, I went back through all of my pictures, even the other night time ones and guess what. No orbs.

Same pictures as above, just lightened with a few arrows that I drew:

So if you want to believe that the orbs showing up in only my cemetery pictures and nothing else is a coincidence and nothing more, so be it. As for me, I will be hiding under my covers at night. Just to be safe.

Quick Note

2006-04-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

-leaving for Savannah Saturday
-working my butt off since I'll be out all next week
-hella busy
-will be back after trip with pictures and stories (unless something really interesting happens before then (don't count on it))
-i promise it will be a lot more interesting than this

Blog-O-Rama

2006-04-18T10:54:00.000-07:00

If you haven't noticed before, I have a bunch of blogs (and other websites) that I'm particularly fond of in the left sidebar. Dooce, Miss Doxie, and Amalah round out my top 3 favorites. However, a friend recently recommended a blog that I've been reading and it is just hysterical. It's called The Amazing Adventures of Overshare. It's written by a woman who has this coworker, who she calls "Overshare", that gives way too much information about her personal life. If you get a chance, you should check it out. Start here**. October is the beginning, so you have to scroll all the way down to the bottom but it really is some entertaining stuff. Hell, check out all these blogs. You'll soon learn how I REALLY spend my workday.

**For my technically challenged friends, if you click the underlined text in yellow-green, it will take you to the website. *smooch*

Don't let the pained expressions fool you. They loved every second.

2006-04-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

So what mothers in their right minds would dress their sons alike and force them to sit on the lap of a huge white rabbit for more than 5 seconds? AND expect them to smile? AND sit still? AND not smack the other child sitting in said lap? AND not dirty their outfits that they are expected to wear 2 more times in the upcoming week?

Oh, right. That would be me and my sister, Mandy.

HAPPY EASTER!

Big Blurry Baby Head

2006-04-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

He sees what you are eating and wants a bite.

Moments in the sun...

2006-04-10T10:24:00.000-07:00

Please meet my tongue, "Abby Normal".

2006-04-07T05:56:00.000-07:00

I went to visit my dentist yesterday and he told me something interesting about myself that I didn't previously know. My tongue is a freak. I've been living my entire life without a care, as if I didn't have a freakish tongue. I feel like such a sham. Today, I am coming out of the tongue closet however. I HAVE A GEOGRAPHIC TONGUE! There I said it. Before you recoil in terror, let me please state that it is not contagious. So feel free to be near my tongue. It is however, fairly rare as it is present in only about 3% of the population.

Geographic tongue is basically...ok, you know how YOUR tongue is covered in small bumps? Mine is too but mine fall off sometimes. I said they FALL OFF! Not while I'm in public or anything, like ya know, I've never had to apologize for my tongue bumps falling onto the floor to a coworker or anything. I'm never aware that it's happening, just occasionally I have these bald spots on my tongue that's sensitive to hot, cold, spicy, and taunting. It's called "geographic tongue" because it kind of looks like a map. I would post a picture but I just can't seem to find one that doesn't make me want to throw up. Tongues are by nature, a little gross.

So there ya have it. I have a geographic tongue. So, next time you see my tongue, please remember, no taunting. He's sensitive.

That's t-u-r-d, as in "Turd Ferguson".

2006-04-04T13:03:00.000-07:00

anonymous friend: I've been burgled.

me: What? Someone steal your stapler?

anonymous friend: No. T-U-R-D burgled**!

me: *laughing at friend* Ohhh, that sucks. By who?

anonymous friend: Dr. T!

me: *laughing harder*

anonymous friend: Dr. F wants to put a mailslot in the bathroom door!

me: Niiiiice.

me: *thinking to self* That might actually save us some time.

**
Turd Burglar
(noun) One who attempts to speak with someone else or lingers directly outside the bathroom door for too long while that person is using the bathroom. Example:As I was trying to use the restroom, I was turd burgled by Jennifer who wanted to know what time it was.

Tonight on Cops...

2006-04-03T13:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday evening my friends are all hanging out at the home of Kyle, Kent, and Stuart getting psyched about their exciting night out with me they had planned for the evening, when out of nowhere this guy slams his car into a tree in their front yard! The police quickly come chasing after him, arrest him (I guess he had just been involved in a shooting), and start questioning everyone. Stuart just happened to be the only one that witnessed it so he had to stay for further questioning but they let the rest of our friends go. Turns out that the Cops crew was with them and Stuart is going to even be on an upcoming episode!!!

Unbelievable!!

Yeah, it is unbelievable because it's not true. April Fools!! What? Not funny? Yeah, I didn't think so either after I found out that it was all a joke. Of course I didn't find out that it was all a "joke" until after I had told 5 or 6 people at the bar.

My friends are bastards. All of 'em.

Work, work, work, I hate computers.

2006-03-31T08:53:00.001-08:00

Oh.my.gosh. This has been a week from helllllll! Thank goodness it's almost over. We've been installing, converting, wirelessing, entering information, correcting information, making tedious decisions, making major decisions...in other words, we're getting up and running on our new computer system here at work. *sigh* Let me give you a brief rundown of my week.

Monday:
work, work, work, I hate computers, work, work
Watch Apprentice-cheer for the Kansas City guy.

Tuesday:
work, work, work, I hate computers, work, work
Watch American Idol-cheer for Taylor and Chris and hope that Bucky is the loser.

Wednesday:
work, work, work, I hate computers, work, work
Watch The Great Muppet Caper because by this time, my brain is fried and I cannot comprehend much more than that.

Thursday:
work, work, work, I hate computers, work, work
Watch Will and Grace, My Name is Earl, Office and then pass out.

Friday:
So here we are today. So far:
work, work, work, I hate computers, work, work
And I finally get to say hello here. So...hello. My brain is fried, I have nothing interesting to say because my work is my world and it's hella boring.

One good thing that happened this morning was that in my sleepy haze, I happened to look out into my backyard as I was releasing the hounds and saw this:

and this...

SPRING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

However now I'm stuck here in my office not enjoying the beautiful day that is Friday. To end on a light note, my friends and I are going out Saturday night. Like getting-a-new-outfit kind of going out. I need a drink. So if you see me out, do not talk to me about computers or work or else...well...I cannot guarantee your safety.

Webster loves SPRING!

I've been feeling guilty about the amount of TV he's been watching lately.

2006-03-27T12:19:00.000-08:00

So I chained him to his bookshelf to read "Snuggle Puppy"...

...and then forced him to smile at me.

If he keeps this up, he'll be released soon on good behavior.

He has truly become one of us.

2006-03-24T06:18:00.000-08:00

Note the way he casually lounges in his chair with his feet propped up, watching the latest Sesame Street. When you see your child exhibit some of your own shining traits, it just melts your heart.

In Theaters this Summer: "The Elephant that Loved Me (and movies)"

2006-03-21T05:58:00.000-08:00

After a desperate attempt at an intervention, Chuck and I have finally faced the elephant in the room. He has an addiction. It is watching movies. Yes, yes, I know, most everyone enjoys movies. What you don't understand is, the man HAS to watch a movie if we are at home. He can't just entertain himself by fiddling around the house like I do. If we have down time, he will spend hours searching for a movie to watch on the 500 channels of cable we have. It's driving me insane. So, I think I have found a solution to his problem.

After months of listening to my friends rave about Netflix, I finally gave in to the peer pressure as a last ditch effort to help my husband before I send him off to therapy. I signed up for the two week trial, which will surely turn into a subscription because I'm lazy and always forget to cancel things like these. As luck might have it, it's one of those that automatically signs you up if you don't cancel. Hooray!! (note: sarcasm) However, so far, I am impressed. If you've been living under a rock and don't know what Netflix is, let me fill you in with a little copy and paste...

About Netflix
Netflix (Nasdaq: NFLX) is the world's largest online DVD movie rental service, offering more than 4 million members access to 55,000 titles. Our appeal and success are built on providing the most expansive selection of DVDs; an easy way to choose movies; and fast, free delivery.

Members have the choice of eight subscription plans, starting at $9.99 per month for unlimited rentals with one DVD out at a time. With the most popular plan of $17.99 a month, members rent as many DVDs as they want and keep them as long as they want, with three movies out at a time. Members enjoy fast and free delivery: We reach more than 90 percent of our members with generally one business-day delivery and provide free, prepaid return envelopes. With no commitments, members can cancel anytime. Our "no late fees, no due dates" online movie rental model has eliminated the hassle involved in choosing, renting and returning movies.

And if you would like to read this in it's entirety, go
here.

Basically what you do is create a "queue" (a list) of all the movies they have available that you would like to see. Their collection is actually pretty impressive since I haven't found a movie that they don't have, yet. You build your queue, ranking the movies from top priority to lowest. Based on the plan you sign up for, they send you those movies. As you return them, they send you the next available movie from your queue. It's pretty simple and they get them to you quickly, so it seems. Tonight we should have "Walk the Line" and "Good Night, and Good Luck" waiting for us. So our trial has begun.

As for Chuck and his addiction, I'm hoping that this will help us (him) cut back on his channel surfing. Because, seriously, I'm about to destroy the thing. Thank you everyone for all of your well wishes and support in helping us get through this troubled time. Somehow, I think we'll make it.

Who could leave a face like this?

2006-03-17T07:16:00.000-08:00

When someone looks at you like this as you are leaving for work in the morning, it's very hard to go. *sigh*

The evil that is the camera flash.

2006-03-16T05:53:00.000-08:00

**Note to self: Always be prepared to bust out some kung fu while at QuikTrip.

2006-03-14T12:15:00.000-08:00

I stopped at a local gas station on my way to work this morning. I hadn't dropped Chase off yet so he was in the back seat as usual. It happened to be a little chilly here this morning so I hopped out, put the nozzle in the car and got back in. As I was digging through my purse, this crazy/high looking lady appears at my window out of nowhere. She motions for me to roll down my window so I did, just a little. (I'm not a complete fool. I was in RAYTOWN after all) She points in the opposite direction of the way I would be going after filling up and asks me "Are you going that way?" I just said "No, sorry". She stood there and stared at me for what was probably a full 30 seconds. Finally she blurted out, "I'm late for work and need a ride". I just told her that I was sorry, but I was late for work too and it was in the opposite direction, which was completely true. She pointed over to the gas pump and said, "Your gas is done." I glanced in my side mirror and could see that it obviously wasn't. Not to mention I could HEAR it running. I looked her right in the eye and firmly said, "No, not quite yet. Thank you though." So she, again, stood and stared at me. It was kind of like she was deciding what to do and she was trying to get me out of my car. I stared right back at her all the while feeling my blood start to boil. This was the first time I've ever felt the protect-your-child-at-all-costs urge so it was new to me but whoa. I would have ripped that lady's throat out. I mean, I was getting ANGRY. She finally walked off and started harassing someone else. As soon as she was a safe distance away though, I was out of there.

This has just got me reevaluating a lot of things. What would I truly have done if she made an aggressive move towards me? I assume I would have just driven off with the nozzle still in my car, after all, people do it accidentally all the time. What if she had caught me before I had gotten back into my car though? I've been trying to make light of the situation by convincing myself that I would have busted out some kung fu on the crazy lady but really I think this is something that will be bothering me for a while.

Chuck the Truck

2006-03-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

Snake Saturday

2006-03-13T11:17:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday was Snake Saturday in North Kansas City. For those who don't know, it's a made up holiday so people in NKC can (get drunk) celebrate St. Pat's the Saturday before actual St. Patrick's Day and not have to take off two days of work to enjoy it. You know, one day to celebrate and the following day to recover.

The tradition consists, for me, of watching the parade and then trotting off to the local bars to enjoy the rest of the day. Well, we did just that this weekend. First we took Chase to the parade and he thoroughly enjoyed it as you can see here:

Doesn't he look thrilled to the point of bursting?

He seemed to like the firetrucks the best, as he has been trained well by my firefighting father. He clapped his hands and yelled at all the trucks as you can see, here:

Afterwards, Chuck and I joined my drunken family at the Oaktree Bar (Chase waited in the car-he was being such a party pooper) where everyone enjoyed lots of drunken hugs from Debbie, my stepmom -as you can see here with Chuck:

The photo that was previously posted here has been removed to make room for new pictures. Trust me, you would have been impressed.

here with Mandy:
The photo that was previously posted here has been removed to make room for new pictures. Trust me, you would have been impressed.

here with Brett:
The photo that was previously posted here has been removed to make room for new pictures. Trust me, you would have been impressed.

and here with Gary:
The photo that was previously posted here has been removed to make room for new pictures. Trust me, you would have been impressed.

Overall it was a good day. Obviously since Chase was being such a drag, we tried to keep the bar time under 3 hours and one of us remained sober. And no, after all the celebrating, we didn't even end up seeing any snakes. Unless you want to count these guys:

**Disclaimer: Of course Chase didn't reeeally wait in the car. What kind of mother do you think I am? We propped him up on a barstool and let him enjoy a few drinks with the rest of us.

What's all the hubbub, you say?

2006-03-09T12:33:00.000-08:00

TODAY is my Grandfather's 80th birthday! 80! Have you met my fabulous grandfather? You haven't? Oh you must! Grandpas don't come much better than this.

This is him and Chase last summer. Don't they look like a pair about to cause some serious trouble? Well they are. I think right after this picture was taken, they went out and partied all night, hit all the bars and caused some major ruckus. Now that he's 80, I've heard him say that he's not all that interested in ruckus anymore. Now he's toned it down to strictly "hubbub".

Happy Birthday Grandpa Dameron, I love you. I have a beer with your name on it.

Do the White Stripes have bad teeth or something?

2006-03-06T06:02:00.000-08:00

Chuck: What did Simon Cowell do before American Idol?

Me: Ummmm, something over in England. He did the same show over there before coming here to do it. Before that he was in the music business-producing or something.

Chuck: What bands did he work with?

Me: Oh I have no clue. They were all from England so nobody we would probably know.

Chuck: That's not true, we know the White Stripes.

Me: *laughs and looks at him to see if he's serious* *yep, he's serious*

Me: The White Stripes are from here.

Chuck: Right, right.

Double the Pleasure, Double the Tiffany.

2006-03-03T11:44:00.000-08:00

It's true! Go to this website, type in your name and it will "sloganize" it for you. Because when it comes down to it, "There's First Love, and There's Tiffany Love."

C-C-C-C-C-C-C'mon!!

2006-03-02T07:26:00.000-08:00

So you know what is probably not work appropriate? George Michael's "I want your sex". Why this song is in heavy rotation on the radio station that I currently listen to at work solely because it usually is work appropriate, is beyond me. Not that I don't do a little desk chair dancing to it, don't get me wrong. However when a doctor comes in to talk to me about a coding issue or his schedule or wondering why the hell I'm rolling around rhythmically in my desk chair, it's probably not the most appropriate song to be playing at that particular time.

Careful! Those roses look a little frisky.

2006-02-25T14:54:00.000-08:00

Me: "Hey, while you are standing there, will you throw away those dead roses?"
Chuck: "Yeah. Are they horny?"
Me: *thinking, Well, I don't THINK so. They look a little limp to me.*
Me: (laughing) "You mean, THORNY?"
Chuck: "Um, yeah."
Me: "Yeah, I think they are."

Katrina and Amanda this post is for you.

2006-02-23T10:33:00.000-08:00

*Someone* told me this morning that you have been teaching my son a certain curse word. You have been repeating the same word over and over again so he will learn it and repeat it. For the past week, my sweet innocent angel has been walking around our home mumbling what I thought was his version of "shoe". It was so cute and I was so proud of him for learning a new word. I now know the actual word that he has been mumbling is NOT "shoe". Let's just say, you should avoid me at all costs for the next week. I have something for you and it ain't pretty.

Everything has a place and everything in it's place.

2006-02-20T05:38:00.000-08:00

Kevin Spacey, The Mouse, Adorable Kids, and my behind.

2006-02-17T07:39:00.000-08:00

I, as usual, have lots of big plans for the next year. Most of those plans involve traveling which I really, really enjoy. I have 4 trips planned as of right now and I will now ramble about them for the next four paragraphs.

The first trip is to Georgia to visit my great aunt who is 90! And still drives! I'll tell you what, if I am as mentally capable and physically able as she is when I am 90, I'll be happy. Well, I'll be shocked... but happy shocked. (I'm pretty firm in the belief that my death will involve snakes and a minivan but that's a story for another time.) So my sister, my mother, and I will be going at the end of April. We'll be visiting my aunt in the small town where she lives and then all going up to Savannah to spend some time there. I'm not sure exactly what we'll be doing but all I know is that a Haunted Ghost Tour will most definitely be involved. And I will be sure to speak slowly and with a long draaaaawl the entire time I am there. I will also be on the search for this man.

The second trip is still in the works as well but a friend of mine is getting married and asked me to be in her wedding! Yahoo! I'm really excited about this trip too. Chuck will be joining me and it's in one of my favorite places, the magical city of Orlando. Go ahead, roll your eyes, but there is something about that place that I just adore and will make me return there as often as I possibly can. Yes, I will be wearing my mouse ears. What? You don't think I truly own them? You don't think Chuck owns them? You think we are way too cool of a couple to own mouse ears? You would be wrong.

My third trip will be to Texas to visit my stepbrother, my sister in law, and their adorable sons, Adin and Benjamin. Proof of their adorableness..

I can't wait to see them since we so rarely get to. This trip will be with Chase and my stepmother, Debbie. I'm really hoping this one works out since it sounds like so much fun!

And then...the grandaddy of them all..we'll be going to Cancun for my 21st (30th) birthday next year in February!! I'm trying to organize as many people as possible to go with us. So far, we have a great group including my friends and family and I couldn't be any more excited! It will make turning 21 (30)less painful. This is me on the beach next year. Would you kindly stop staring at my shapely body? Thanks.