Just so Mom doesn't worry ... I'll not be driving home after tonight's festivities are over.
Until tomorrow people. Happy New Year!
A Quiet End to 2004
Dear ...
It's hard to be so quiet when it comes to you. I know we haven't spoken in almost forever, but I thought I'd write you anyway and tell you a little bit about my life this year.
In January I met a man, and for the first time in a long time, I felt real arms wrapped around me. And it was wonderful to feel wanted, nice to not be lonely, good to feel secure. I thought I could make it work - as if such a thing were possible - I thought it would be easy to let myself be loved and give that love back in return. But it turns out, I let myself be fooled by something that wasn't love. And it broke my heart, the heart that didn't love but didn't want to be lonely either. And I was sad, crying real tears for the emptiness that I felt inside. I wanted to call you up crying, to hear you tell me to pull myself back together, to have you say that I deserved something more. (Granted I knew I deserved something more, I just needed someone to agree with me.) And you were always so good at that, giving me encouragement when I needed it most. Like the time you told me that making rainbows was up to me. I could have any color I wanted, if only I would choose to do something, to do anything.
But as you know I didn't call.
Instead I managed to bring all the pieces of me back together, patching them the best I could in my fragmented but whole sort of way. For a while, I considered painting myself a sign to carry with me when I was out in public, "Broken but mending. Handle me with care." But when all was said and done, I decided my blog was a much better way to vent all my frustrations.
In family news, KC's gotten so big this year. She'll be nine in seven days. Can you believe that? You haven't seen her since she was a small, wee one still in footie pajamas, carrying around her sippy cup. She's quite the girl now, all grown up in a little girl sort of way. You would admire her moxy, the way she speaks her mind. She's got spirit I'll tell you that and she isn't afraid of anything, although sometimes I wish she wasn't so fearless.
We went to Mom's for Thanksgiving this year, stayed at her new house on the lake. And KC decided she wanted to give canoeing a try, so Mom strapped her into the life preserver and helped her find her footing in the boat, giving her a quick lesson on how to steer with the paddle. And off went my little girl, leaving me feeling as if I were watching her paddle out into the middle of an ocean, rather than the small lake on which she was on. I have to admit I was a bit scared, though I tried to cover it with humor, yelling from the shore that I wasn't about to jump in to rescue her if she should fall in. I can hear you laughing at that one, you know me too well, I would have been in the water without a moments hesitation if she had needed me. It's what Mom's do.
I'm still writing. Haven't quite finished the book yet, but every day gets me a little closer. Someday when it's done, I'll save part of the dedication for you, maybe even send you an autographed copy, along with all the other friends I've met this year. And I've made so many. Many whose faces I have never seen and voices I've never heard, but their words come to me so clear and unexpected that quite like an act of kindness, I am constantly thankful for the reminder that there is so much untouched good in the world. Who would have thought this simple little blog would have brought such joy to my heart?
In other news, I'm still working where I worked before. It's still not my ideal job, but it gets us through each week and so I'm happy to have it. I am however thinking about going back to school to finish my degree. Last night I was looking up courses online for the upcoming spring semester, wondering if there is a way I can fit that into my schedule. Perhaps with a little more thought, I can find a way to make that happen.
But listen to me going on like this when I should be getting ready. You'll be happy to know that I'm not sitting home alone tonight. Martin, Brenda and I are going out to dinner to celebrate the New Year and then maybe to the movies as well. That or we're going to go back to their place and just giggle and talk our way into the New Year. I can't think of a better way to spend it ... Well unless you were willing to travel a million miles or so, and remind me how clever you are when it comes to making comments on just about everything and anything.
All in all, it wasn't a bad year. See I didn't adopt a pity party me atmosphere at all. I learned a lot about who I'm still becoming and who I want to be now that I'm looking through the eyes of a thirty year old woman. And you know, it's not all that bad being me, being thirty. It's just another new beginning. A fresh go round. Oh lord, would you look at the time, a half hour to be ready and out the door ... Perhaps time management should make the resolution list for 2005. Which reminds me, I still have to write it ... I am if not always predictable, somewhat late.
As always I wish the best for you.
No closing needed.
Stacey
It's hard to be so quiet when it comes to you. I know we haven't spoken in almost forever, but I thought I'd write you anyway and tell you a little bit about my life this year.
In January I met a man, and for the first time in a long time, I felt real arms wrapped around me. And it was wonderful to feel wanted, nice to not be lonely, good to feel secure. I thought I could make it work - as if such a thing were possible - I thought it would be easy to let myself be loved and give that love back in return. But it turns out, I let myself be fooled by something that wasn't love. And it broke my heart, the heart that didn't love but didn't want to be lonely either. And I was sad, crying real tears for the emptiness that I felt inside. I wanted to call you up crying, to hear you tell me to pull myself back together, to have you say that I deserved something more. (Granted I knew I deserved something more, I just needed someone to agree with me.) And you were always so good at that, giving me encouragement when I needed it most. Like the time you told me that making rainbows was up to me. I could have any color I wanted, if only I would choose to do something, to do anything.
But as you know I didn't call.
Instead I managed to bring all the pieces of me back together, patching them the best I could in my fragmented but whole sort of way. For a while, I considered painting myself a sign to carry with me when I was out in public, "Broken but mending. Handle me with care." But when all was said and done, I decided my blog was a much better way to vent all my frustrations.
In family news, KC's gotten so big this year. She'll be nine in seven days. Can you believe that? You haven't seen her since she was a small, wee one still in footie pajamas, carrying around her sippy cup. She's quite the girl now, all grown up in a little girl sort of way. You would admire her moxy, the way she speaks her mind. She's got spirit I'll tell you that and she isn't afraid of anything, although sometimes I wish she wasn't so fearless.
We went to Mom's for Thanksgiving this year, stayed at her new house on the lake. And KC decided she wanted to give canoeing a try, so Mom strapped her into the life preserver and helped her find her footing in the boat, giving her a quick lesson on how to steer with the paddle. And off went my little girl, leaving me feeling as if I were watching her paddle out into the middle of an ocean, rather than the small lake on which she was on. I have to admit I was a bit scared, though I tried to cover it with humor, yelling from the shore that I wasn't about to jump in to rescue her if she should fall in. I can hear you laughing at that one, you know me too well, I would have been in the water without a moments hesitation if she had needed me. It's what Mom's do.
I'm still writing. Haven't quite finished the book yet, but every day gets me a little closer. Someday when it's done, I'll save part of the dedication for you, maybe even send you an autographed copy, along with all the other friends I've met this year. And I've made so many. Many whose faces I have never seen and voices I've never heard, but their words come to me so clear and unexpected that quite like an act of kindness, I am constantly thankful for the reminder that there is so much untouched good in the world. Who would have thought this simple little blog would have brought such joy to my heart?
In other news, I'm still working where I worked before. It's still not my ideal job, but it gets us through each week and so I'm happy to have it. I am however thinking about going back to school to finish my degree. Last night I was looking up courses online for the upcoming spring semester, wondering if there is a way I can fit that into my schedule. Perhaps with a little more thought, I can find a way to make that happen.
But listen to me going on like this when I should be getting ready. You'll be happy to know that I'm not sitting home alone tonight. Martin, Brenda and I are going out to dinner to celebrate the New Year and then maybe to the movies as well. That or we're going to go back to their place and just giggle and talk our way into the New Year. I can't think of a better way to spend it ... Well unless you were willing to travel a million miles or so, and remind me how clever you are when it comes to making comments on just about everything and anything.
All in all, it wasn't a bad year. See I didn't adopt a pity party me atmosphere at all. I learned a lot about who I'm still becoming and who I want to be now that I'm looking through the eyes of a thirty year old woman. And you know, it's not all that bad being me, being thirty. It's just another new beginning. A fresh go round. Oh lord, would you look at the time, a half hour to be ready and out the door ... Perhaps time management should make the resolution list for 2005. Which reminds me, I still have to write it ... I am if not always predictable, somewhat late.
As always I wish the best for you.
No closing needed.
Stacey
Shard-less
It finally happened! The day I've been waiting for my entire life - or at least the last three weeks. It was mid-afternoon and I was in my office watching Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean on the portable DVD player that KC actually got for Christmas - which would also be the same one that she doesn't know I'm borrowing - eating my lunch which consisted of a soft taco supreme from Taco Bell and a cold Code Red, when I felt the urge to kick at the shard with my tongue.
Now I've spent the better part of the last three weeks working on wiggling the shard around little by little, getting it used to the idea that eventually I was expecting it to come out, when suddenly and quite painfully there came a snap, quickly followed by the taste of blood on my tongue. "Ow!" I yelled to no one in particular, as no one in particular yelled back. Inside my gum I could still feel the shard, but it was turned in a different direction and as I pressed my finger against my gum, I could feel it moving around my mouth like a marble.
I suppose I could have shut my mouth, taken a drink and swallowed thereby knocking the shard out from its hiding place but I wasn't about to let the shard go without seeing it for what it truly was. So I fished around for a moment, pushing it with my tongue, pressing against it with my finger until there it was, in my hand like a golden globe and I was in awe.
It was the smallest, tiniest little piece of bone shard I'd ever seen. Miniscule really. And had you asked me how long I thought it was, I would have told you it was a long thin bone the size of an inchworm. Instead it was shaped somewhat like a triangle with a serrated edge. Still it was a proud moment for me.
"Come and see THE SHARD!" I yelled to my co-workers. "I am in mouth heaven! Look, I can move my mouth! I can talk without pain!"
One collective groan from the office later, and the smarmy comment, "I suppose this means she's planning on catching up on all the talking she hasn't done in weeks," I had a small crowd gathered in my office to see THE SHARD.
But to say the least they weren't impressed, as one who hasn't been one with THE SHARD would feel. Forgiving them their ignorance, I quickly located a spare plastic baggy sealing THE SHARD in. While Brenda, being the good friend she is, emailed me to let me know that tomorrow when I come over, we will take a picture of THE SHARD with her digital camera and upload it to the blog.
I know, I know ... Waiting to see evidence of THE SHARD is going to be difficult. But rest assured my sweet, smart, wonderful friends pictures will be forthcoming!
Now I've spent the better part of the last three weeks working on wiggling the shard around little by little, getting it used to the idea that eventually I was expecting it to come out, when suddenly and quite painfully there came a snap, quickly followed by the taste of blood on my tongue. "Ow!" I yelled to no one in particular, as no one in particular yelled back. Inside my gum I could still feel the shard, but it was turned in a different direction and as I pressed my finger against my gum, I could feel it moving around my mouth like a marble.
I suppose I could have shut my mouth, taken a drink and swallowed thereby knocking the shard out from its hiding place but I wasn't about to let the shard go without seeing it for what it truly was. So I fished around for a moment, pushing it with my tongue, pressing against it with my finger until there it was, in my hand like a golden globe and I was in awe.
It was the smallest, tiniest little piece of bone shard I'd ever seen. Miniscule really. And had you asked me how long I thought it was, I would have told you it was a long thin bone the size of an inchworm. Instead it was shaped somewhat like a triangle with a serrated edge. Still it was a proud moment for me.
"Come and see THE SHARD!" I yelled to my co-workers. "I am in mouth heaven! Look, I can move my mouth! I can talk without pain!"
One collective groan from the office later, and the smarmy comment, "I suppose this means she's planning on catching up on all the talking she hasn't done in weeks," I had a small crowd gathered in my office to see THE SHARD.
But to say the least they weren't impressed, as one who hasn't been one with THE SHARD would feel. Forgiving them their ignorance, I quickly located a spare plastic baggy sealing THE SHARD in. While Brenda, being the good friend she is, emailed me to let me know that tomorrow when I come over, we will take a picture of THE SHARD with her digital camera and upload it to the blog.
I know, I know ... Waiting to see evidence of THE SHARD is going to be difficult. But rest assured my sweet, smart, wonderful friends pictures will be forthcoming!
Too Much
I slept like shit. I woke up late. My jeans are in the dryer. My jeans are not dry. I'm not going to work without my jeans. Or anything else for that matter ...
I dreamt about bodies. Dead floating bodies. I have to turn off my TV. I have to turn off my radio. I cannot wrap my mind around a number unfathomable for those that have been lost, for those that are still missing. My heart suffers for people I do not know. I'm lucky to only complain about my lack of sleep, the jeans that are not dry.
Amazoncom. has a one click solution to lend a helping hand to Tsunami victims. I urge you all to help in any way you can.
I dreamt about bodies. Dead floating bodies. I have to turn off my TV. I have to turn off my radio. I cannot wrap my mind around a number unfathomable for those that have been lost, for those that are still missing. My heart suffers for people I do not know. I'm lucky to only complain about my lack of sleep, the jeans that are not dry.
Amazoncom. has a one click solution to lend a helping hand to Tsunami victims. I urge you all to help in any way you can.
Brain Games
Believe it or not, I've been doing some reflective thinking this week. And considering the time of year, it seems rather appropriate to have set myself to this task so close to the season of resolutions.
Last year my resolution list was pretty much a joke - just as it was meant to be. I thought I had finally figured out how to get around the guilt of breaking resolutions, by not making any that were actually serious.
I have however decided against maintaining my same lackadaisical attitude from last year, with the plan to make this year's list something worthy of accomplishment.
But before I get to all of that, I thought it might be interesting to take a look back on everything 2004 had to teach me. Unfortunately due to the length of that list, I will be posting that tomorrow, after I've had some time to collect my thoughts.
For now, all I can think about is my bed and the hope that I don't have as many complicated dreams as I had last night. (Ie: Running through a dark forest filled with snakes, swimming to the bottom of an ocean located in my backyard to rescue a group of air travelers in a badly damaged and submerged plane, making mint chocolate chip ice cream cones for a group of people I didn't know ... And waking up wondering What the Fuck??)
Last year my resolution list was pretty much a joke - just as it was meant to be. I thought I had finally figured out how to get around the guilt of breaking resolutions, by not making any that were actually serious.
I have however decided against maintaining my same lackadaisical attitude from last year, with the plan to make this year's list something worthy of accomplishment.
But before I get to all of that, I thought it might be interesting to take a look back on everything 2004 had to teach me. Unfortunately due to the length of that list, I will be posting that tomorrow, after I've had some time to collect my thoughts.
For now, all I can think about is my bed and the hope that I don't have as many complicated dreams as I had last night. (Ie: Running through a dark forest filled with snakes, swimming to the bottom of an ocean located in my backyard to rescue a group of air travelers in a badly damaged and submerged plane, making mint chocolate chip ice cream cones for a group of people I didn't know ... And waking up wondering What the Fuck??)
Signing On the Dotted Line
If it's not one thing, it's another.
First the painful bone shard which is still a prominent and annoying feature in my mouth, and now some serious cold/flu related symptoms which with the help of some dayquil has been modified at least a little bit.
In the meantime, KC and I have to run into town really quick, so I can sign on for another year at the townhouse. And it's either sign the lease, or pay $25.00 extra a month to remain lease free. All I have to say is, who knew my little old signature could be worth so much?
But even as I dread having to go out in the cold, I've already got plans on what I'm doing the moment we get back. Couch. Blanket. Movie. And if I'm lucky, maybe even a nap to catch up on all the sleep I didn't get last night, thanks to a runny nose, sore throat, mind numbing fever, and the shard.
Ugh! I remember it was only about a month ago, when I was still 29 and the world was still wonderful. Now that I'm 30, I'm falling apart, breaking down and seeing more gray hairs than I care to admit to. Perhaps I'll stop at the drug store on my way home and grab some home hair color ...
Age gracefully, I think not.
First the painful bone shard which is still a prominent and annoying feature in my mouth, and now some serious cold/flu related symptoms which with the help of some dayquil has been modified at least a little bit.
In the meantime, KC and I have to run into town really quick, so I can sign on for another year at the townhouse. And it's either sign the lease, or pay $25.00 extra a month to remain lease free. All I have to say is, who knew my little old signature could be worth so much?
But even as I dread having to go out in the cold, I've already got plans on what I'm doing the moment we get back. Couch. Blanket. Movie. And if I'm lucky, maybe even a nap to catch up on all the sleep I didn't get last night, thanks to a runny nose, sore throat, mind numbing fever, and the shard.
Ugh! I remember it was only about a month ago, when I was still 29 and the world was still wonderful. Now that I'm 30, I'm falling apart, breaking down and seeing more gray hairs than I care to admit to. Perhaps I'll stop at the drug store on my way home and grab some home hair color ...
Age gracefully, I think not.
Under the Weather
I had a feeling late last night when my throat started to feel a bit patchy and my head a bit woozy that I was starting to feel a bit unwell. Now I am quite certain that I am on the road to illville, sitting here with my face flushed and hot to touch, head pounding like a dozen hammers, and a throat that feels as raw as an ice skating pond after closing.
Technically speaking, I have a low grade fever. Something that wouldn't normally concern me terribly, except I cannot take the pain meds for the bone shard along with medicine to fight the cold. Hence I must make a decision on which is more important ... A decision I should say is a toss up at the moment.
Be that as that may, and considering I'm all sorts of tired, I think I'll say goodnight and talk to you all tomorrow. To those of you awaiting response for emails you've sent, rest assured the words are in my brain and will be forthcoming as soon as I've taken a nap, and set myself to rights.
Technically speaking, I have a low grade fever. Something that wouldn't normally concern me terribly, except I cannot take the pain meds for the bone shard along with medicine to fight the cold. Hence I must make a decision on which is more important ... A decision I should say is a toss up at the moment.
Be that as that may, and considering I'm all sorts of tired, I think I'll say goodnight and talk to you all tomorrow. To those of you awaiting response for emails you've sent, rest assured the words are in my brain and will be forthcoming as soon as I've taken a nap, and set myself to rights.
It's The Day AFTER Christmas
I cannot see the living room floor, though I'm quite sure it's somewhere under all the empty boxes, Styrofoam inserts, plastic shrink wrap, and toy after toy after toy spread about the room.
KC's decided on a free for all this morning. She's free to make a grand and glorious mess, and I'm free to pick it up right behind her. Except I'm on hiatus having just loaded the dishwasher, cleaned the kitchen counters, and picked up a scattering of plastic bags the cats decided to strew about the house in the middle of the night.
I'm also planning on taking the tree down and out today. I know this sounds horribly grinchy of me, but it must be done. Octavia refuses to stay out the tree, I'm tired of picking up ornaments off the floor, and having both stepped on some incredible sharp pine needles, KC and I have come to the conclusion that either it goes or we goes.
Perhaps if I appear helpless - notice I'm not being rude and saying blonde - later when I drag the tree out of the house, I'll draw the attention of my one and only cute single neighbor, enticing him out of his place long enough to bat my eyelashes a few times and garner a proposal. Not in the way of marriage mind you, but dinner would be nice.
KC would be embarrassed if she could hear me. The last time I made some purring noise from the back of my throat as I stood freezing my tail off in the driveway talking to BND - Boy Next Door - she was in her words, wanting to throw up. I told her she'd understand the whole boy/girl thing someday - warning at the same time that someday better be when she's moved out of my house and on the verge of graduating from college. KC only response was to scrunch up her face, while clutching her stomach as she made fake hacking up a hair-ball noises.
Oh lord, I really need to get in the shower and face the day and I need to stop back down to Dad's and see how he's feeling. The poor guy was sicker than a dog last night and didn't get to enjoy the festivities much at all. And to know my Dad is to know that his favorite holiday - bar none - is Christmas. I can never quite figure out who enjoys Christmas more, Dad or all the grandchildren. My money's on Dad ...
My sister Audrey also flies out today for her home in Baltimore ... And I really should see her off before she goes and offer her some sort of sisterly advice even though there's nothing that immediately comes to mind. Except maybe get a better apartment, one with a kitchenette and indoor plumbing.
I'm also going to have to run to my stepfather's today and do the whole Christmas visit/gift exchange thing. This is one of those things that I know I have to do but dread doing all the same. One would think this would get easier every year, but it doesn't. I've got an endless well of love for the man, but sometimes I have an incredibly hard time of showing it. And now there is this wall that seems to separate us from having a real conversation besides one based on the weather and the polite how is everything going in your world, where the answers are the ones they want to hear, rather than the real ones you'd like to give.
Ah well ... Life is meant to be challenging, is it not?
As far as presents go, KC and I were completely spoiled once again this year. My Mother and Ken sent me some lovely pottery in my favorite milk chocolate colors, and two gorgeous hand carved angels that will surely be a welcome addition to my collection. I'd list some of KC's things but there are far too many to tell, and every one of them seems to be her favorite, so to do it justice I'd have to write a list twice as long as Santa's ...
Dad surprised me with a beautiful mosquito netting for my four poster bed, that I thought went completely over his head when I mentioned it in passing. And a total shocker of a new TV - what size it is I'm not sure though the box is very big and heavy, and I'm pretty sure it's a 24" or better - because I had also mentioned that the TV downstairs was on the brink of going kaput ... I really didn't expect much of anything this year, so I've certainly no complaints.
On top of all that, my sister Jodi gifted me with a Barnes and Noble gift card and managed to talk Dad into doing the same as well as renewing my B&N membership. With $75.00 to spend all on books, I've got to wait for a day when I can go alone and lose myself in the shelves for a while. It's like a dream come true ...
Long story short, Christmas went off without a hitch - with maybe one or two small hiccups, but nothing that rocked the house from its foundation. Leaving me with only one more thing to do, which is get in the gosh darn shower and motivate. I've got two hungry little cats, and one can of wet food left in the cupboard. And I don't know about you, but when the natives are restless and hungry, they have a habit of destroying everything in their paths.
So I'm out ... Hope all of you out there are catching on your sleep, enjoying your families or lack there of, and having an all around sort of good day.
Until sooner rather than later ...
KC's decided on a free for all this morning. She's free to make a grand and glorious mess, and I'm free to pick it up right behind her. Except I'm on hiatus having just loaded the dishwasher, cleaned the kitchen counters, and picked up a scattering of plastic bags the cats decided to strew about the house in the middle of the night.
I'm also planning on taking the tree down and out today. I know this sounds horribly grinchy of me, but it must be done. Octavia refuses to stay out the tree, I'm tired of picking up ornaments off the floor, and having both stepped on some incredible sharp pine needles, KC and I have come to the conclusion that either it goes or we goes.
Perhaps if I appear helpless - notice I'm not being rude and saying blonde - later when I drag the tree out of the house, I'll draw the attention of my one and only cute single neighbor, enticing him out of his place long enough to bat my eyelashes a few times and garner a proposal. Not in the way of marriage mind you, but dinner would be nice.
KC would be embarrassed if she could hear me. The last time I made some purring noise from the back of my throat as I stood freezing my tail off in the driveway talking to BND - Boy Next Door - she was in her words, wanting to throw up. I told her she'd understand the whole boy/girl thing someday - warning at the same time that someday better be when she's moved out of my house and on the verge of graduating from college. KC only response was to scrunch up her face, while clutching her stomach as she made fake hacking up a hair-ball noises.
Oh lord, I really need to get in the shower and face the day and I need to stop back down to Dad's and see how he's feeling. The poor guy was sicker than a dog last night and didn't get to enjoy the festivities much at all. And to know my Dad is to know that his favorite holiday - bar none - is Christmas. I can never quite figure out who enjoys Christmas more, Dad or all the grandchildren. My money's on Dad ...
My sister Audrey also flies out today for her home in Baltimore ... And I really should see her off before she goes and offer her some sort of sisterly advice even though there's nothing that immediately comes to mind. Except maybe get a better apartment, one with a kitchenette and indoor plumbing.
I'm also going to have to run to my stepfather's today and do the whole Christmas visit/gift exchange thing. This is one of those things that I know I have to do but dread doing all the same. One would think this would get easier every year, but it doesn't. I've got an endless well of love for the man, but sometimes I have an incredibly hard time of showing it. And now there is this wall that seems to separate us from having a real conversation besides one based on the weather and the polite how is everything going in your world, where the answers are the ones they want to hear, rather than the real ones you'd like to give.
Ah well ... Life is meant to be challenging, is it not?
As far as presents go, KC and I were completely spoiled once again this year. My Mother and Ken sent me some lovely pottery in my favorite milk chocolate colors, and two gorgeous hand carved angels that will surely be a welcome addition to my collection. I'd list some of KC's things but there are far too many to tell, and every one of them seems to be her favorite, so to do it justice I'd have to write a list twice as long as Santa's ...
Dad surprised me with a beautiful mosquito netting for my four poster bed, that I thought went completely over his head when I mentioned it in passing. And a total shocker of a new TV - what size it is I'm not sure though the box is very big and heavy, and I'm pretty sure it's a 24" or better - because I had also mentioned that the TV downstairs was on the brink of going kaput ... I really didn't expect much of anything this year, so I've certainly no complaints.
On top of all that, my sister Jodi gifted me with a Barnes and Noble gift card and managed to talk Dad into doing the same as well as renewing my B&N membership. With $75.00 to spend all on books, I've got to wait for a day when I can go alone and lose myself in the shelves for a while. It's like a dream come true ...
Long story short, Christmas went off without a hitch - with maybe one or two small hiccups, but nothing that rocked the house from its foundation. Leaving me with only one more thing to do, which is get in the gosh darn shower and motivate. I've got two hungry little cats, and one can of wet food left in the cupboard. And I don't know about you, but when the natives are restless and hungry, they have a habit of destroying everything in their paths.
So I'm out ... Hope all of you out there are catching on your sleep, enjoying your families or lack there of, and having an all around sort of good day.
Until sooner rather than later ...
Closed For Christmas
Yet another Christmas Day draws to a close, and I for one am exhausted. KC is practically falling over herself asleep, trying to play with one of everything from her entire pile of loot. But I'm about to put the kabash on that and pack us all upstairs to bed. Tomorrow is another day ... So I will leave the details for tomorrow.
Goodnight Moon.
Goodnight Moon.
The Christmas Agenda
How dedicated am I, posting here on Christmas morning?
Actually I'm playing the waiting game, waiting for KC to get home. I also have to wrap a few more presents, tag them, and get them under the tree or packed in the to go box to take them down to Dad's later.
Speaking of Dad he left me a message earlier, wanting to know if I wanted to go with him to my sister's to watch my niece and nephew open their gifts. Evidently since I slept through the phone call, I've opted to pass on that. Surprisingly, my grandmother was also on my machine, calling to say how much she enjoyed the old fashioned hand carved Santa Claus I got her this year. I wish I would have been awake to take her call, but I'll give her a buzz later tonight when I think she's gotten home from my Uncle's. It makes me happy to know that she totally loves it, even though she yelled at me for spending money on her.
As for the rest of this morning, like I said, I've a few more presents to wrap and rearrange under the tree thanks to Em and Tavi fighting like little banshees this morning and knocking all the gifts around in their BC Battle. And Dad will be coming over near the time KC gets home to do his annual video taping of everyone's Christmas morning prior to the main taping this afternoon when everyone meets at his house for the big "it's going to be a poor Christmas" unveiling. Funny, my Dad says that every year and yet every year there are so many damn presents in the living room, one can barely find an empty space to sit down.
Ooops. I almost forgot I've also volunteered to go pick up my sister Audrey who is flying in from Baltimore at the airport in Syracuse this afternoon. The poor kid hasn't had much luck lately. Her studio apartment flooded from an unexpected pipe burst, ruining most of her stuff and her job would only give her today off for the holiday, expecting her back to work tomorrow. Which means she's flying in today and flying right back out tomorrow morning. On the bright side, at least she won't have to spend the holiday alone, albeit it will be a done too soon sort of visit. (Though perhaps knowing how things tend to go whenever my sisters and I all spend too much time alone in cramped quarters, a quick visit is a good thing. Not that we don't all love each other, we just tend to agree that we disagree about most things. That and too many alpha personalities in the same room don't tend to mesh. Although I should mention that I am the cutest and nicest of them all ... Or not.)
I only wish that my Mom lived close enough to share in these same festivities ...
Anyhoo to all of you out there, enjoy your day today. And most importantly remember that Christmas isn't about what you get under the tree, it's about what you take home with you in your hearts. (And God bless us, every one.)
Actually I'm playing the waiting game, waiting for KC to get home. I also have to wrap a few more presents, tag them, and get them under the tree or packed in the to go box to take them down to Dad's later.
Speaking of Dad he left me a message earlier, wanting to know if I wanted to go with him to my sister's to watch my niece and nephew open their gifts. Evidently since I slept through the phone call, I've opted to pass on that. Surprisingly, my grandmother was also on my machine, calling to say how much she enjoyed the old fashioned hand carved Santa Claus I got her this year. I wish I would have been awake to take her call, but I'll give her a buzz later tonight when I think she's gotten home from my Uncle's. It makes me happy to know that she totally loves it, even though she yelled at me for spending money on her.
As for the rest of this morning, like I said, I've a few more presents to wrap and rearrange under the tree thanks to Em and Tavi fighting like little banshees this morning and knocking all the gifts around in their BC Battle. And Dad will be coming over near the time KC gets home to do his annual video taping of everyone's Christmas morning prior to the main taping this afternoon when everyone meets at his house for the big "it's going to be a poor Christmas" unveiling. Funny, my Dad says that every year and yet every year there are so many damn presents in the living room, one can barely find an empty space to sit down.
Ooops. I almost forgot I've also volunteered to go pick up my sister Audrey who is flying in from Baltimore at the airport in Syracuse this afternoon. The poor kid hasn't had much luck lately. Her studio apartment flooded from an unexpected pipe burst, ruining most of her stuff and her job would only give her today off for the holiday, expecting her back to work tomorrow. Which means she's flying in today and flying right back out tomorrow morning. On the bright side, at least she won't have to spend the holiday alone, albeit it will be a done too soon sort of visit. (Though perhaps knowing how things tend to go whenever my sisters and I all spend too much time alone in cramped quarters, a quick visit is a good thing. Not that we don't all love each other, we just tend to agree that we disagree about most things. That and too many alpha personalities in the same room don't tend to mesh. Although I should mention that I am the cutest and nicest of them all ... Or not.)
I only wish that my Mom lived close enough to share in these same festivities ...
Anyhoo to all of you out there, enjoy your day today. And most importantly remember that Christmas isn't about what you get under the tree, it's about what you take home with you in your hearts. (And God bless us, every one.)
Wishes
Christmas Eve was a night of song that wrapped itself about you like a shawl. But it warmed more than your body. It warmed your heart...filled it, too, with melody that would last forever."
~ Bess Streeter Aldrich (1881-1954), American author, 'Song of Years'.
May the spirit of Christmas remain warm inside your heart long after the last present has been opened and the final ornament been put away. Wishing you all the very best today, and every day in the years to come ...
Merry Christmas.
Stacey, KC, and of course Emma, (Known as Her Highness, black cat #1) Octavia, (More commonly referred to as Trouble, black cat #2) Fitzwilliam and Lizzie, (The chirpiest pair of birds this side of the Hudson) Squiggy the killer goldfish and the 4 other fish in the tank who choose to remain nameless.
~ Bess Streeter Aldrich (1881-1954), American author, 'Song of Years'.
May the spirit of Christmas remain warm inside your heart long after the last present has been opened and the final ornament been put away. Wishing you all the very best today, and every day in the years to come ...
Merry Christmas.
Stacey, KC, and of course Emma, (Known as Her Highness, black cat #1) Octavia, (More commonly referred to as Trouble, black cat #2) Fitzwilliam and Lizzie, (The chirpiest pair of birds this side of the Hudson) Squiggy the killer goldfish and the 4 other fish in the tank who choose to remain nameless.
Christmas Eve
To be honest with you all, I'm not feeling all that festive tonight. Save for the multi-colored lights sparkling on the tree, I'm sitting here in the dark listening to Christmas music by myself. A dreadful way of making yourself a bit miserable when you're already feeling blue.
KC is at her Dad's for the night and won't be home until noon tomorrow. A couple of years ago, we decided to be fair and alternate Christmas Eve and Christmas morning because it would be the best thing for KC. But to be honest, on the years that aren't mine, I spend the entire night with a broken heart just waiting for her to come home.
But I'll get through it, passing the time away just thinking about the look on her face when she gets home and opens that one special gift she was hoping would be under the tree.
Until then I think I'll have a glass of wine, reflect on the Christmas spirit, and kick myself for not getting my wayward soul into a church this year.
KC is at her Dad's for the night and won't be home until noon tomorrow. A couple of years ago, we decided to be fair and alternate Christmas Eve and Christmas morning because it would be the best thing for KC. But to be honest, on the years that aren't mine, I spend the entire night with a broken heart just waiting for her to come home.
But I'll get through it, passing the time away just thinking about the look on her face when she gets home and opens that one special gift she was hoping would be under the tree.
Until then I think I'll have a glass of wine, reflect on the Christmas spirit, and kick myself for not getting my wayward soul into a church this year.
Staring Down the Clock
Watching paint dry would have been a lot more exciting then an entire day spent in my office waiting for the phone to ring. Of course that's not saying I was overly happy when it did ring since I really wasn't in the mood to work anyway, and everyone who called seemed to have one problem or another, that I wasn't too keen on having to solve.
Solve them I did however. (No thanks to the numbnut who smucked them up and went awol on us for the day.) Not bothering to even attempt to look busy, I went from room to room in search of intelligent conversation. And though I never did find one, I still managed a few laughs here and there, although some were at my expense. Or as Cheryl found it extremely funny to say, "Ahhh Stacey. You know I'm just busting your chops." As if my chops weren't already broken!
The bossman was even kind enough to let us out a half hour early tonight, and to put it bluntly, you didn't have to ask me twice. I was packed and ready to go within 10 seconds of his statement. It probably didn't hurt that I had been whining all morning either, as I went around shouting, "Did you see it outside? Inclement weather! It's our civic duty to shut down and send everybody home." (Inclement weather seems to be the catch word for all our Southern locations. The merest hint of snowflakes and every plant south of the Mason Dixon line is suddenly closing due to inclement weather. Unfortunately this works against us Yankees. We don't close unless a state of emergency has been declared.)
Must go make dinner now since I don't hear it offering to prepare itself from the kitchen. Oh to have maid service ... I have a dream.
Solve them I did however. (No thanks to the numbnut who smucked them up and went awol on us for the day.) Not bothering to even attempt to look busy, I went from room to room in search of intelligent conversation. And though I never did find one, I still managed a few laughs here and there, although some were at my expense. Or as Cheryl found it extremely funny to say, "Ahhh Stacey. You know I'm just busting your chops." As if my chops weren't already broken!
The bossman was even kind enough to let us out a half hour early tonight, and to put it bluntly, you didn't have to ask me twice. I was packed and ready to go within 10 seconds of his statement. It probably didn't hurt that I had been whining all morning either, as I went around shouting, "Did you see it outside? Inclement weather! It's our civic duty to shut down and send everybody home." (Inclement weather seems to be the catch word for all our Southern locations. The merest hint of snowflakes and every plant south of the Mason Dixon line is suddenly closing due to inclement weather. Unfortunately this works against us Yankees. We don't close unless a state of emergency has been declared.)
Must go make dinner now since I don't hear it offering to prepare itself from the kitchen. Oh to have maid service ... I have a dream.
Spoonful of Sugar
I know I promised not to mention anything more about my teeth, but I just can't seem to help myself. They're all I think about, from the time I wake up until the time I finally fall asleep. My jaw is sore, my lips are numb, my mouth feels like it's filled with glass and I can't imagine how, despite my dwindling supply of pain meds which makes me forget about the pain for a while, I'm supposed to concentrate on anything else. I am a broken record with an incredibly sharp needle. I am girl interrupted. Maybe if I go fix myself a bowl of ice cream, I'll feel better. That is once it melts and I'm able to eat it ...
A Slow Torture
For those of you who guessed I'd be coming home early this morning after an unsuccessful trip to the dentist, go ahead and give yourself 5 points. And for those few of you who also guessed I'd find myself dissolving into tears not even three steps out of the doctor's office, to continue sobbing the entire way home as I called into work and said, "I'm in too much pain to come back," give yourself a whopping 10 points. And for those of you who are planning an intervention due to my new found addiction to percaset, just remind me how my life used to be, before constant pain led me to such drastic measures ...
Speaking of percaset, I just took two which should be knocking me out momentarily.
I think I'll go cry myself to sleep.
Speaking of percaset, I just took two which should be knocking me out momentarily.
I think I'll go cry myself to sleep.
O Degrees and Holding
Back to the dentist man today and not a moment too soon. Having bored you all with stories of my mouth, my teeth and the subsequent pain for the last two weeks, I will be getting this done and over with today if I have to grab the tweezers myself and yank half of my jawbone out. Done and over with. Period. No ifs, no buts, no let's wait one more week and see if it works itself out on its own. I so do not think so ...
Very disappointed in the minor child's school. Closed again today. For what reason other than it's bitter cold outside I do not know. This however is unusual as the place has a reputation for never, ever closing unless they can't get the engines in the buses to turn over. Now I'm going to have to plead my case to Dad this morning and pray that he'll volunteer to spend a little quality time with his granddaughter today. Although every time I try that line, his general response is, "I already spend more than enough quality time with her." And he does. He even runs her to dance class on Tuesday's. Then again, he's taken to borrowing my car on Tuesday's since the CV is put away for the winter, so maybe I have a bit of leverage. Hmmm.
I've now cut my getting ready time down to half an hour. This usually means I'll be scrambling in the next 20 minutes to get myself in gear, get KC awake and moving, and somehow manage to arrive to work with 3 to 4 minutes, oh who am I kidding - usually late by 5 and never early, and since I've got to add picking up Dad, which consists of 5 minutes in the wrong direction, I can pretty much guarantee my ass is going to be late for work. With that, I'm out of here. Wishing you all a pleasant Tuesday and a last few days of Pre-Christmas shopping.
Nanu nanu.
Very disappointed in the minor child's school. Closed again today. For what reason other than it's bitter cold outside I do not know. This however is unusual as the place has a reputation for never, ever closing unless they can't get the engines in the buses to turn over. Now I'm going to have to plead my case to Dad this morning and pray that he'll volunteer to spend a little quality time with his granddaughter today. Although every time I try that line, his general response is, "I already spend more than enough quality time with her." And he does. He even runs her to dance class on Tuesday's. Then again, he's taken to borrowing my car on Tuesday's since the CV is put away for the winter, so maybe I have a bit of leverage. Hmmm.
I've now cut my getting ready time down to half an hour. This usually means I'll be scrambling in the next 20 minutes to get myself in gear, get KC awake and moving, and somehow manage to arrive to work with 3 to 4 minutes, oh who am I kidding - usually late by 5 and never early, and since I've got to add picking up Dad, which consists of 5 minutes in the wrong direction, I can pretty much guarantee my ass is going to be late for work. With that, I'm out of here. Wishing you all a pleasant Tuesday and a last few days of Pre-Christmas shopping.
Nanu nanu.
Following in Orbling's Footsteps
Reserved, quiet, wise and free spirited
You are a sprite of the Earth: You have a deep
connection with the earth and all its
creatures, preferring plants and animals to
people you are quiet and reserved. You
understand things on a different level and can
often see straight through to a persons true
intentions. You are mysterious to everyone even
those in your family, they may live with you
but that doesn't mean they 'know' the real you.
Being inside the house for long periods of time
can be torture, you crave the outdoors and love
simply escaping up a tree or into the forest
where you can be free. Although you may be
smart you are easy to judge a person because
you fear what they 'may' be going to do. You
are wise in things that most overlook and you
are very creative in many aspects like art,
music, etc... Although try as they may to seek
you, you are a free spirit. Just let them try
to catch and put you in a cage.
.::=What type of Mythical Sprite are you?=::. -With Anime Pictures and detailed answers-
brought to you by Quizilla
Half Asleep and Typing
Fairly close to crashing and burning. But then again, it's been a few days since I've put in a full day of work at the office. I spent the first half hour of my morning trying to figure out why I couldn't get my computer signed on to the network and was about to call the IT department, when I noticed someone had tried to crush my ficus with one of the faux leather chairs. And as I went to move the chair back to its normal position in front of my desk, I suddenly realized why my computer was the only one with issues. It seems, that whomever decided to borrow my office while I was out on Friday - JAKE - my supposed good friend!!! - unplugged the green cable that connects me to the network and didn't bother to plug it back in. If he had been in the office, I would have strangled him. Lucky for him, he was on the road.
KC is still not feeling up to par and though she was determined to go back to school, she lucked out and school was cancelled. This of course didn't make my day when I realized how much money I'd have to shell out for an entire day at the sitters. Oy!
But like I said, it's an early night for the both of us. KC and I are going to camp out in my room and watch movies until we fall asleep.
KC is still not feeling up to par and though she was determined to go back to school, she lucked out and school was cancelled. This of course didn't make my day when I realized how much money I'd have to shell out for an entire day at the sitters. Oy!
But like I said, it's an early night for the both of us. KC and I are going to camp out in my room and watch movies until we fall asleep.
Monday Out of Bed Blues
It's too early to face the world, but face the world I will this morning. Meanwhile the tooth situation remains the same, that is at least until tomorrow morning when I go see Dr. R yet again. And this time, I don't care if I've got to give my greatest performance of whining, he will take this shard out of my mouth, even if it requires some intense pulling on his part and some intense pain for my part. I just can't take it anymore ...
But enough from me, I've got to get ready, and let the car warm up for at least half an hour if I hope to leave on time today. It's -6 below and a bit chilly.
But enough from me, I've got to get ready, and let the car warm up for at least half an hour if I hope to leave on time today. It's -6 below and a bit chilly.
The Ace of Stace
I think I may need to cut back on my reality TV watching. Last night I had a dream that I was telling Donald Trump that I was a whole heck of a lot smarter than most of his chosen candidates, because while I possessed an infinite amount of creativity and energy, I was also blessed with practicality. The Donald for all his pomp and circumstance seemed to agree with me, nodding his head in a you're hired sort of way, and motioning me over in his direction.
"You really think you know what you're doing?" he asked in a conspiratorial whisper. Taking a moment to consider my answer and conceal my bewilderment over how he managed to flop his hair over in such an odd, feathered fashion, I looked him straight in the eye.
"Absolutely," I said, a look of complete seriousness on my face. "And as a good friend once told me, if you can't baffle them with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit." Eyes crinkling and mouth twitching as if to smile, The Donald laughed at my forwardness.
"You're quite something, aren't you?"
"You betcha," I laughed. "You damn well betcha."
"You really think you know what you're doing?" he asked in a conspiratorial whisper. Taking a moment to consider my answer and conceal my bewilderment over how he managed to flop his hair over in such an odd, feathered fashion, I looked him straight in the eye.
"Absolutely," I said, a look of complete seriousness on my face. "And as a good friend once told me, if you can't baffle them with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit." Eyes crinkling and mouth twitching as if to smile, The Donald laughed at my forwardness.
"You're quite something, aren't you?"
"You betcha," I laughed. "You damn well betcha."
Insanity
Can't eat. Can't drink. Can't speak. Can't sleep. And now can't blog!
My list of grievances today is long and lengthy. Starting with the fact that I just lost another post as I pressed the publish button. And had I taken the advice of one of my readers, to write my post someplace other than on blogger itself and then transfer it over later, I wouldn't have to be writing this all again! So as my first official gripe, Blogger please pull yourself together, stop dumping my damn posts and update my damn profile page to make it current instead of making it look like my last post was on November 5th!
But my major grievance is my GD mouth, where despite another trip to Dr. R and his bone chiseling device of torture, I'm in no better shape than I was yesterday! Which means I'm in fucking agonizing pain! How else am I supposed to feel with a piece of sharp, protruding bone fragment sticking out my gum and ripping my tongue to shreds?
But am I bitter?
You damn well better bet that I am! As bitter as I am over having never been to Disney World! But don't even get me started on that because I may just throw the sort of temper tantrum that would put a group of three year olds to shame!
On another note ... Anyone want to explain the whole concept of BlogShares with me? It seems someone has placed NWTLO on an imaginary stock market ... I wonder if I should invest?
My list of grievances today is long and lengthy. Starting with the fact that I just lost another post as I pressed the publish button. And had I taken the advice of one of my readers, to write my post someplace other than on blogger itself and then transfer it over later, I wouldn't have to be writing this all again! So as my first official gripe, Blogger please pull yourself together, stop dumping my damn posts and update my damn profile page to make it current instead of making it look like my last post was on November 5th!
But my major grievance is my GD mouth, where despite another trip to Dr. R and his bone chiseling device of torture, I'm in no better shape than I was yesterday! Which means I'm in fucking agonizing pain! How else am I supposed to feel with a piece of sharp, protruding bone fragment sticking out my gum and ripping my tongue to shreds?
But am I bitter?
You damn well better bet that I am! As bitter as I am over having never been to Disney World! But don't even get me started on that because I may just throw the sort of temper tantrum that would put a group of three year olds to shame!
On another note ... Anyone want to explain the whole concept of BlogShares with me? It seems someone has placed NWTLO on an imaginary stock market ... I wonder if I should invest?
Hookie Times Two
Friday morning and the snow is coming down in fast flurries of white. KC's wrapped up in her favorite blanket on the living room floor watching Dora with Octavia cuddled by her side. Not feeling well, complaining of a tummy ache and other assorted ailments, I decided to let her stay home with me for the day. Hopefully if she is coming down with something, an extra day of rest will do her good and see her on the mend before it can escalate into a full blown winter cold. Something that around Christmas time would really suck.
I'm about to go grab a shower and face the day. Dr. R is first on my list to call this morning in hopes he can fit me in just long enough to tell me what's going on with my mouth and possibly order me up some more pain pills since I am down to 5 and cannot fathom going the weekend without. At least not with a sharp piece of bone ripping my tongue to shreds ...
And my poor Mom seems to be in a similar predicament with her own teeth. Hopefully she'll feel better soon as well. (Miss and love you Mom!)
I'm about to go grab a shower and face the day. Dr. R is first on my list to call this morning in hopes he can fit me in just long enough to tell me what's going on with my mouth and possibly order me up some more pain pills since I am down to 5 and cannot fathom going the weekend without. At least not with a sharp piece of bone ripping my tongue to shreds ...
And my poor Mom seems to be in a similar predicament with her own teeth. Hopefully she'll feel better soon as well. (Miss and love you Mom!)
Too Much, Too Soon
Bit of a mistake going to work and to the company holiday party tonight. I went in feeling not so good, and have just gotten home feeling a thousand times worse. And on top of all that, I will be calling Dr. R in the morning for an emergency check up. It seems that there is some sort of sharp object, most likely a shard of broken tooth that has found itself locked inside my gums and with my first adventure in chewing today has broken through, cutting my tongue and making it most difficult to swallow, let alone talk.
The pain is ridiculous and the pain medication no longer touches it. And instead of having a great time with the guys tonight, I was like a mute sitting at the table while everyone else was downing their drinks, clutching my cheek in agony. Not exactly my idea of a good time, when I am a major contributor in the fun and hijinks portion of the evening.
So I'm taking tomorrow to pull myself back together, and get this thing fixed before I'm forced to survive the weekend sucking on this razor inside my mouth. But for now, I think I'll find my bed and call it a night.
The pain is ridiculous and the pain medication no longer touches it. And instead of having a great time with the guys tonight, I was like a mute sitting at the table while everyone else was downing their drinks, clutching my cheek in agony. Not exactly my idea of a good time, when I am a major contributor in the fun and hijinks portion of the evening.
So I'm taking tomorrow to pull myself back together, and get this thing fixed before I'm forced to survive the weekend sucking on this razor inside my mouth. But for now, I think I'll find my bed and call it a night.
Back to Work
On my way into work though my face feels particularly sensitive today. More so in fact than it did yesterday or the day before. But it's the Christmas party today, and I told Toni I would do my best to be there. I believe I said something about come hell or high water. And so I'm going despite my fervent wish to spend one more day on the couch wrapped up in my favorite blanket.
The Voice That Brings You Back
Suspended in ripples of slow moving consciousness. The best way I think to describe the effects the laughing gas had on me. And it was strange. The feeling that I could hear everything, the fact that I could move my hands, and the strange thought that I resembled the giant gaping mouth on the cover of Pink Floyd's The Wall DVD.
And when the drill started, I felt it in waves. Gentle at first and then building, until suddenly my eyes were open and I was saying "Ow" and Dr. R looked sort of surprised to see me awake so soon. "Easy Stacey. You're doing good," said a lady's voice by my side. "Breathe through your nose. That's it. Good." And just as suddenly as my eyes had opened, they were closed again and I was back on the astral plain floating and listening and hearing Toby Keith.
Toby Keith?
I laughed to myself, thinking that I shouldn't laugh when presumably there was some heavy artillery going on in my mouth but I couldn't help it. Dr. R laughed too. "Yes," he said, "Go ahead and laugh Stacey. Sometimes it makes you do that. Tilt your head back a little further, further. Okay, now that's good." And I felt myself following his instructions, wondering how it was I could do as I was told when I didn't feel as if I were in control of myself anymore.
I started gasping for air, feeling as if a giant weight were pressing against my chest. My hands clenching and unclenching as I fought them for control, wanting them to understand that I was there in that room with them. "Deep breaths Stacey," said the lady's voice again, her thumb stroking the side of my face. "I know it hurts, but it's almost done now. You're doing good."
Calmed, I felt myself sinking back into the chair, relaxing. Trusting. Concentrating on breathing. Just breathing. Remembering how I breathed when I was in labor, remembering how I could manage the pain.
Like someone had turned the electricity off, everything went silent. And I could feel on the side of my cheek, something that tasted unmistakably like cotton. A hand on my shoulder shook me gently. "Stacey, you can wake up now. It's all over. You did great."
Tired, I didn't want to open my eyes. "It felt like a dream," I said, the left side of my mouth garbling my speech. "Was Toby Keith playing the entire time?"
The hygenist nodded at me, smiling. "Yes," she said, "Don't you like Toby Keith?" I watched her unhooking all sorts of devices from my arms, and some other wire that was clipped onto my jeans.
"Nightmare," I said, still feeling as if I was floating in a cloud somewheres. Laughing she took my arm to help me sit up. "I was wondering what had you so upset. I'll have to tell Dr. R no more Toby Keith in the operating room."
I didn't feel like telling her that Toby Keith had been the least of my worries as she steered me back out towards the waiting room where my Dad was waiting.
"Thank you," I said in a quiet voice, remembering how she had stroked my face and calmed me. "Thanks for being my guardian angel in there."
And with that, Dad helped me with my coat and drove me home.
And when the drill started, I felt it in waves. Gentle at first and then building, until suddenly my eyes were open and I was saying "Ow" and Dr. R looked sort of surprised to see me awake so soon. "Easy Stacey. You're doing good," said a lady's voice by my side. "Breathe through your nose. That's it. Good." And just as suddenly as my eyes had opened, they were closed again and I was back on the astral plain floating and listening and hearing Toby Keith.
Toby Keith?
I laughed to myself, thinking that I shouldn't laugh when presumably there was some heavy artillery going on in my mouth but I couldn't help it. Dr. R laughed too. "Yes," he said, "Go ahead and laugh Stacey. Sometimes it makes you do that. Tilt your head back a little further, further. Okay, now that's good." And I felt myself following his instructions, wondering how it was I could do as I was told when I didn't feel as if I were in control of myself anymore.
I started gasping for air, feeling as if a giant weight were pressing against my chest. My hands clenching and unclenching as I fought them for control, wanting them to understand that I was there in that room with them. "Deep breaths Stacey," said the lady's voice again, her thumb stroking the side of my face. "I know it hurts, but it's almost done now. You're doing good."
Calmed, I felt myself sinking back into the chair, relaxing. Trusting. Concentrating on breathing. Just breathing. Remembering how I breathed when I was in labor, remembering how I could manage the pain.
Like someone had turned the electricity off, everything went silent. And I could feel on the side of my cheek, something that tasted unmistakably like cotton. A hand on my shoulder shook me gently. "Stacey, you can wake up now. It's all over. You did great."
Tired, I didn't want to open my eyes. "It felt like a dream," I said, the left side of my mouth garbling my speech. "Was Toby Keith playing the entire time?"
The hygenist nodded at me, smiling. "Yes," she said, "Don't you like Toby Keith?" I watched her unhooking all sorts of devices from my arms, and some other wire that was clipped onto my jeans.
"Nightmare," I said, still feeling as if I was floating in a cloud somewheres. Laughing she took my arm to help me sit up. "I was wondering what had you so upset. I'll have to tell Dr. R no more Toby Keith in the operating room."
I didn't feel like telling her that Toby Keith had been the least of my worries as she steered me back out towards the waiting room where my Dad was waiting.
"Thank you," I said in a quiet voice, remembering how she had stroked my face and calmed me. "Thanks for being my guardian angel in there."
And with that, Dad helped me with my coat and drove me home.
And the Verdict Is ...
Nitrous oxide is a wonderful thing. But now that I've been home for an hour or two, the pain is starting to settle in, and the sweet oblivion is just about over and gone. My face feels like someone hit it with a jack hammer and I'm not imagining it when I say I can feel the stitches in my mouth.
On that note, I've just taken two pain pills and think a nap is in due order. More interesting details later, when I'm back on a level playing field.
On that note, I've just taken two pain pills and think a nap is in due order. More interesting details later, when I'm back on a level playing field.
Voices of Reason ... Not One of Them Mine
According to my sources - 4 comments on last nights post - the consensus seems to be leaning towards the opinion that tooth extraction, combined with good drugs is really quite a good thing. And Bren is right too ... There is something oddly attractive about Dr. R, though thank God for me, not in a Sean Connery way, since Sean Connery and I have a history ... I watch his movies and pretend I'm his damsel in distress, and he hasn't a clue that I'm alive. In the end, it works out wonderfully for both of us.
Did I mention that during my shopping adventure over the weekend I bought two new stick to the side of the tank sucky fishes? Since I don't feel like attempting to spell their genus species name correctly, or taking the time to spell check, I'll spell it phonetically for you. Their correct name is Plah-cas-ta-mas. Or as I like to call them Abbott and Costello. I am a bit worried however as I've only seen one of them since I dropped them in the water. Squiggy - the killer goldfish - has a bad habit of pretending he's a piranha. Need I remind you all of what happened the last time I bought thirty dollars worth of fishy friends? Squiggy had breakfast, lunch and dinner if you know what I mean. Perhaps now would be a good time to sit him down with a little Finding Nemo intervention and explain to him that "Fish are friends. Not food."
And I wasn't going to mention this, but I woke up this morning and came to the horrible realization that I had a dream about my ex. (Hold back the screams, hold back the screams, hold back the screams ...) And in the dream, I wanted him to kiss me ... (What the hell is wrong with my subconscious?!?!) If I were allowed to wash my mouth out with soap, I would. But the instructions on my dental appointment card have made it clear that I an not to eat or drink eight hours prior to oral surgery.
Oral surgery ... Doesn't something about that sound dirty? Like something you should be whispering rather than saying out loud? It would be like someone coming up to you and saying in an incredibly sleazy way, "Hey. I've got a little oral surgery planned for later. You interested?"
I believe I've babbled quite enough for one morning. Time to get in the shower, throw on a pair of jeans and a reasonably cute top - perhaps a good idea to stay away from excessive low dip boob action today - and milk the morning for all it's worth until it's time to go.
Blog you later.
Did I mention that during my shopping adventure over the weekend I bought two new stick to the side of the tank sucky fishes? Since I don't feel like attempting to spell their genus species name correctly, or taking the time to spell check, I'll spell it phonetically for you. Their correct name is Plah-cas-ta-mas. Or as I like to call them Abbott and Costello. I am a bit worried however as I've only seen one of them since I dropped them in the water. Squiggy - the killer goldfish - has a bad habit of pretending he's a piranha. Need I remind you all of what happened the last time I bought thirty dollars worth of fishy friends? Squiggy had breakfast, lunch and dinner if you know what I mean. Perhaps now would be a good time to sit him down with a little Finding Nemo intervention and explain to him that "Fish are friends. Not food."
And I wasn't going to mention this, but I woke up this morning and came to the horrible realization that I had a dream about my ex. (Hold back the screams, hold back the screams, hold back the screams ...) And in the dream, I wanted him to kiss me ... (What the hell is wrong with my subconscious?!?!) If I were allowed to wash my mouth out with soap, I would. But the instructions on my dental appointment card have made it clear that I an not to eat or drink eight hours prior to oral surgery.
Oral surgery ... Doesn't something about that sound dirty? Like something you should be whispering rather than saying out loud? It would be like someone coming up to you and saying in an incredibly sleazy way, "Hey. I've got a little oral surgery planned for later. You interested?"
I believe I've babbled quite enough for one morning. Time to get in the shower, throw on a pair of jeans and a reasonably cute top - perhaps a good idea to stay away from excessive low dip boob action today - and milk the morning for all it's worth until it's time to go.
Blog you later.
The Tooth Fairy Cometh
Tomorrow is the big wisdom tooth extraction and I can honestly say that I am SO not looking forward to it. Although I think I may be a bit more concerned about what might come out of my mouth in the way of words as I'm going under the anesthesia. A valid concern considering that what I say when I'm fully conscious often runs me amok. I mean what if I say something totally embarrassing, like "Do you come here often?" or "Funny meeting a guy like you in a place like this." And worse yet, "My mother always wanted me to marry a dentist." Not that my Mom ever wanted me to marry a dentist ... Did you Mom? Or perhaps I won't say anything at all, but just drool all over the place, and when I wake up there will be something akin to Niagara Falls puddling at my feet. I figure in the scheme of things, there's about 80,000 possibilities of stupid and horribly embarrassing things I can say or do while I'm going all unconscious in the chair of torture. Then again, if the pain killers do their job, I won't remember a thing.
Tree of Wonder
As in wonder how long it will take the kitten to cause it to come crashing down. In the span of three hours, I've had to scold her more than a dozen times, chase her around the house as she made like a dog with a silver sparkled snowflake in her mouth, and then proceeded to climb up the trunk of the tree like little sister to Simba. So who could blame me for being a bit apprehensive about leaving Octavia and the tree alone tomorrow while I'm at work. But as with most things, you've got to trust that fate won't deal you a shitty hand.
In the meantime, I have to admit that I'm watching the Survivor finale and am more than overjoyed that Eliza just got the proverbial boot. Someday I'm going to talk CBS into doing another clever take off on reality. I'd call it Office Survivor ... And I already know who I'd be voting out.
Until tomorrow people, my brain cells are going on vacation.
Joy To The World
Spent the day in Syracuse with Dad shopping for bargains, and managed to find a few as we pushed our way through all the other holiday shoppers. Lines were long, elbow room was nil, and had it not been for the help of one especially pleasant and efficient Best Buy employee, I'd still probably be there hunting for DVD's. And considering how long I had searched up and down every single aisle compared to her - and I swear this is true - less than 25 second retrieval of not one but three DVD's, I was impressed. So of course, I told her so. It's not often you find people who know their stuff, and when you do, you damn well have a responsibility to tell them that they rock.
I am also in much better spirits. I think someone upstairs heard my frantic, almost at my edge pleas the other night, and rewarded me with a much needed holiday bonus. A bonus I might add will take care of Christmas, and a few bills I've been running close to behind on. I am a giant sigh of relief ...
Eternal dork that I am, also went out and bought Christmas stockings for Emma and Octavia. KC will be proud of me tomorrow when she gets home. She didn't think it very fair that neither of the cats had stockings of their own. Meanwhile, I'm wondering how much trouble it would be to stuff Octavia in one and attempt to take her picture. Though to be honest, guessing by the way she woke me up this morning by using my toes as a chewing toy, she wouldn't take kindly to this idea.
A day of shopping has me beat and I'm back at it first thing tomorrow morning. Come heck, high water, or a mountain load of snow, I will be completely done with my shopping before this weekend is over.
I am also in much better spirits. I think someone upstairs heard my frantic, almost at my edge pleas the other night, and rewarded me with a much needed holiday bonus. A bonus I might add will take care of Christmas, and a few bills I've been running close to behind on. I am a giant sigh of relief ...
Eternal dork that I am, also went out and bought Christmas stockings for Emma and Octavia. KC will be proud of me tomorrow when she gets home. She didn't think it very fair that neither of the cats had stockings of their own. Meanwhile, I'm wondering how much trouble it would be to stuff Octavia in one and attempt to take her picture. Though to be honest, guessing by the way she woke me up this morning by using my toes as a chewing toy, she wouldn't take kindly to this idea.
A day of shopping has me beat and I'm back at it first thing tomorrow morning. Come heck, high water, or a mountain load of snow, I will be completely done with my shopping before this weekend is over.
Desperate Times ...
Do not always call for desperate measures. Though if you were to ask the receptionist where I work, she would tell you that my single status does indeed call for an emergency counsel with all hands on deck.
Innocently standing in the fax room yesterday, young Maggie approached me out of the blue with an offer to set me up with her landlord. Now I don't know about all of you out there, but for those of us who think in pictures (thanks Bren for being the reason I say that now) the word landlord automatically makes me conjure up a grubby old man in a greasy white wife beater, slow burning cigar hanging out of his mouth, a face covered in grizzly whiskers, and a set of rainbow suspenders in danger of loosing their hold on his trousers. Not exactly my Mr. Right if you know what I mean.
So I told her no - nicely and politely as if I were thankful for the offer, when what I really wanted to do was rip every last hair follicle out of her head. The annoying little twit. And trust me when I tell you, you wouldn't have been any more impressed than I to have some little 21 year old child tell you what things you should be doing to improve your love life.
So I took it with a grain of salt. That is until I walked back into my office and had almost the very same conversation with Toni, who immediately set out about telling me about her newly divorced friend that she's sure I would love ...
Innocently standing in the fax room yesterday, young Maggie approached me out of the blue with an offer to set me up with her landlord. Now I don't know about all of you out there, but for those of us who think in pictures (thanks Bren for being the reason I say that now) the word landlord automatically makes me conjure up a grubby old man in a greasy white wife beater, slow burning cigar hanging out of his mouth, a face covered in grizzly whiskers, and a set of rainbow suspenders in danger of loosing their hold on his trousers. Not exactly my Mr. Right if you know what I mean.
So I told her no - nicely and politely as if I were thankful for the offer, when what I really wanted to do was rip every last hair follicle out of her head. The annoying little twit. And trust me when I tell you, you wouldn't have been any more impressed than I to have some little 21 year old child tell you what things you should be doing to improve your love life.
So I took it with a grain of salt. That is until I walked back into my office and had almost the very same conversation with Toni, who immediately set out about telling me about her newly divorced friend that she's sure I would love ...
Doldrums
Some people ask for muses, others for guardian angels. So if you know any, send one my way. I could do with a little faith to raise my spirits.
Despite the Frustrations ...
KC and I just finished watching Lilo & Stitch and I have to tell you it gets me every time. It and every other Disney movie ever made that is. Yet it's this line that gets me most of all ...
Stitch: This is my family. I found it, all on my own. It's little, and broken, but still good. Yeah, still good.
Stitch: This is my family. I found it, all on my own. It's little, and broken, but still good. Yeah, still good.
Art Seeking Muse
Wouldn't it be nice to put your life on hold and run away for a while? It sounds so good to say, but as far as the doing goes, it unfortunately falls more in the realm of impossible than possible, save for a wistful sigh.
A friend put such a request on his blog. Seeking muse, he said, someone to share in extensive travels abroad, and the occasional ounce of praise for what he termed "obviously crap" writing. (Although truth be told, I am not of the same opinion that his writing is crap and have told him so on more than one occasion.)
Still if I were someone other than me, I might bite at such an offer, if I thought it seriously made. Ah well, I guess I'll have to aMUSE myself for the time being.
A friend put such a request on his blog. Seeking muse, he said, someone to share in extensive travels abroad, and the occasional ounce of praise for what he termed "obviously crap" writing. (Although truth be told, I am not of the same opinion that his writing is crap and have told him so on more than one occasion.)
Still if I were someone other than me, I might bite at such an offer, if I thought it seriously made. Ah well, I guess I'll have to aMUSE myself for the time being.
Easy No Bake Oven
Though I've washed them, my hands are still sticky from my most recent near disaster in the kitchen. And though I can't seem to clear up that feeling that I've still got a little bit of fudge on the tips of my fingers, I've checked them twice and there's not a single spot to find.
Sure that someone other than myself could have made no bake peanut butter pies much faster then myself, I can at least say that they are done and awaiting their debut at work tomorrow to celebrate all the December office birthdays. It was however a close call. Doubling up on the recipe, I almost forgot to double the final ingredient, far too distracted from kicking KC out of the kitchen every two seconds with the admonishment, "No! You cannot lick the bowl just yet!" quickly followed by, "I'll call you when I'm done. Go sit down in the other room. No, not this room. I said the other room."
Of course, she didn't listen. Choosing instead to hover by the door and ask, "You almost done yet? You done yet? When are you going to be done? How come this is taking so long? Can I lick the bowl yet? Is it done now?"
Oh my God!!! Somebody sign me up for sainthood!
Sure that someone other than myself could have made no bake peanut butter pies much faster then myself, I can at least say that they are done and awaiting their debut at work tomorrow to celebrate all the December office birthdays. It was however a close call. Doubling up on the recipe, I almost forgot to double the final ingredient, far too distracted from kicking KC out of the kitchen every two seconds with the admonishment, "No! You cannot lick the bowl just yet!" quickly followed by, "I'll call you when I'm done. Go sit down in the other room. No, not this room. I said the other room."
Of course, she didn't listen. Choosing instead to hover by the door and ask, "You almost done yet? You done yet? When are you going to be done? How come this is taking so long? Can I lick the bowl yet? Is it done now?"
Oh my God!!! Somebody sign me up for sainthood!
Hip, Hop, Hype
After all the build up, after all the hype, I'm sad to say I was more than a little disappointed over the BJD2 sequel. Can't really put my finger on the why of it all, other than I was expecting bigger and better and came to the conclusion that in no way was it as good as the first. It did however, have its moments ... Colin Firth, sigh.
As for me, I've spent the rest of my afternoon in solitary confinement and am on my way back upstairs to bed before the painkiller kicks in and knocks me on my ass.
As for me, I've spent the rest of my afternoon in solitary confinement and am on my way back upstairs to bed before the painkiller kicks in and knocks me on my ass.
Off To the Movies
Not to blow this whole tooth thing out of proportion, but when you can barely open your mouth wide enough to take a bite of toast, it's okay to feel sorry for yourself.
That being said, I'm taking myself to the movies today to see Bridget Jone's Diary 2.
I'm off to get ready.
That being said, I'm taking myself to the movies today to see Bridget Jone's Diary 2.
I'm off to get ready.
Homage To the Tooth Fairy
Tough night last night trying to get any sleep with my tooth throbbing angrily in pain. With no pain reliever of my own in sight and a face wet with tears, I had no other choice but to give the chewable children's Tylenol a try to see if it could possibly provide any relief. Doubling the dosage and heading back upstairs to bed with a new cold compress, I continued to toss and turn until somewhere after two this morning, when exhaustion finally won over the pain.
Amazingly enough, waking up to a new day didn't help my case any. With the left side of my face completely swollen, even the slightest movement of my jaw sent shockwaves of distress scrambling to my brain. It's just a few more hours until your appointment, I reminded myself as I went about getting ready for work. You're a trooper, you can handle this ... You did after all manage child birth and goodness only knows this isn't anything like that. Though I was really thinking, no it's worse.
So I spent the entire morning mumbling through my mouth, offering to my fellow co-workers their one and only chance to pop me in the mouth for any past grievance they'd like to get even with me for. But not one person was willing to take me up on my offer or even give it a trial swing. Though I dare say I would have welcomed a distraction from the pain.
Girl that I am, one not overly fond of the dentist and all his tools for torture, found myself practically salivating over the oral surgeon when my appointment finally came around. Considering dropping to my knees and begging him to just take the damn tooth out now, and to hell with the consultation, I was more than happy when he prescribed some serious pain relievers. "I could just kiss you!" I told him, as he stood there smiling indulgently at me.
The pain however is far from over. According to my new Doc, my wisdom tooth is impacted, growing in the wrong way in a mouth too small to accommodate it (and boy, did my co-workers have a laugh over me having a small mouth. To hear you, is not to come to that conclusion they said.) and because of it's position (#17) and the difficulty the extraction is going to prove to be, the Doc says he's going to have to have me completely sedated. Oh joy ...
Telling me far more than I ever really wanted to know, ie: cutting the gums, drilling and all other sorts of really bad sounding ideas, with the expectation of being down for the count at least two days following (there goes the Xmas party) I'm trying to forget most of what he said. Let it be known now, that I am a firm believer in the opinion that ignorance is truly bliss sometimes.
With my work day finally over, the first thing I did upon getting home tonight, other than checking my email, sending out the appropriate replies and giving the cats their evening meal, was pop two of my newly prescribed pain relievers. They didn't take long to work, making my idea of blogging earlier in the night a no go. Instead I retreated to the couch, with a soft pillow and two blankets and passed out, waking only about 15 minutes ago to find myself here.
The pain however is slowly easing itself back in and with eyes red and rimmed with black, it's back to the kitchen I'll go now to take another dose and then take myself upstairs and right back to bed.
Amazingly enough, waking up to a new day didn't help my case any. With the left side of my face completely swollen, even the slightest movement of my jaw sent shockwaves of distress scrambling to my brain. It's just a few more hours until your appointment, I reminded myself as I went about getting ready for work. You're a trooper, you can handle this ... You did after all manage child birth and goodness only knows this isn't anything like that. Though I was really thinking, no it's worse.
So I spent the entire morning mumbling through my mouth, offering to my fellow co-workers their one and only chance to pop me in the mouth for any past grievance they'd like to get even with me for. But not one person was willing to take me up on my offer or even give it a trial swing. Though I dare say I would have welcomed a distraction from the pain.
Girl that I am, one not overly fond of the dentist and all his tools for torture, found myself practically salivating over the oral surgeon when my appointment finally came around. Considering dropping to my knees and begging him to just take the damn tooth out now, and to hell with the consultation, I was more than happy when he prescribed some serious pain relievers. "I could just kiss you!" I told him, as he stood there smiling indulgently at me.
The pain however is far from over. According to my new Doc, my wisdom tooth is impacted, growing in the wrong way in a mouth too small to accommodate it (and boy, did my co-workers have a laugh over me having a small mouth. To hear you, is not to come to that conclusion they said.) and because of it's position (#17) and the difficulty the extraction is going to prove to be, the Doc says he's going to have to have me completely sedated. Oh joy ...
Telling me far more than I ever really wanted to know, ie: cutting the gums, drilling and all other sorts of really bad sounding ideas, with the expectation of being down for the count at least two days following (there goes the Xmas party) I'm trying to forget most of what he said. Let it be known now, that I am a firm believer in the opinion that ignorance is truly bliss sometimes.
With my work day finally over, the first thing I did upon getting home tonight, other than checking my email, sending out the appropriate replies and giving the cats their evening meal, was pop two of my newly prescribed pain relievers. They didn't take long to work, making my idea of blogging earlier in the night a no go. Instead I retreated to the couch, with a soft pillow and two blankets and passed out, waking only about 15 minutes ago to find myself here.
The pain however is slowly easing itself back in and with eyes red and rimmed with black, it's back to the kitchen I'll go now to take another dose and then take myself upstairs and right back to bed.
Sensitive Teeth
The blog you are attempting to read is currently suffering from a toothache of unmentionable proportions and will be spending the rest of her night clutching a cold ice pack to the left side of her face while moaning in agony.
More from me tomorrow after I've consulted with the oral surgeon.
More from me tomorrow after I've consulted with the oral surgeon.
Power Outage
Sitting here in the dark and in the ever increasing cold, listening to the rush of the wind outside, and KC nervously stammering away sentences that don't make any sense in order to prolong her stay downstairs where she can be in the pitch black with company, rather than in the pitch black of the upstairs without company.
"It's so dark, it's freaky." she says, snuggling up against me in the soft glow of the computer screen.
But just as she's beginning to settle in, and warm up to the possibility of extending her bedtime, somebody plugs our world back in.
"It's so dark, it's freaky." she says, snuggling up against me in the soft glow of the computer screen.
But just as she's beginning to settle in, and warm up to the possibility of extending her bedtime, somebody plugs our world back in.
The Irritating Lady Next Door
Call me a stuck up snob, call me set in my ways, call me whatever it is you want, but when it comes to my neighbor in TH #4, the one thing you can always call me is irritated.
Once again she's managed to fuck up our parking lot system by parking in my spot, and allowing her endless caravan of company to park in everyone else's! (Common courtesy be damned after all!) And it's quite obvious that it hasn't occurred to her that people who don't live here should park someplace other than in a resident's spot! Especially when the rain is pouring down and the wind is whipping at 45 mph! (Exclamation points should be noted here.)
And it's all I can do to keep myself in check and not go marching down to her door and give her a piece of my mind. (Albeit it may be a small one with the way my day has gone today.) One which would include how loud she talks outside my door after midnight, the never ending company she has that never ever seem to leave, but feel free to act like they pay rent and live here and the fact that Sheila (my nice next door neighbor) - on more than one occasion - has taken it upon herself to pick up the trash blowing around the yard, because Kathy has been too LAZY to lift the lid of the garbage receptacle and place her bags inside the dumpster!
If only I had the power of eviction!
(I'd bitch more but it's time to get KC to dance class.)
Once again she's managed to fuck up our parking lot system by parking in my spot, and allowing her endless caravan of company to park in everyone else's! (Common courtesy be damned after all!) And it's quite obvious that it hasn't occurred to her that people who don't live here should park someplace other than in a resident's spot! Especially when the rain is pouring down and the wind is whipping at 45 mph! (Exclamation points should be noted here.)
And it's all I can do to keep myself in check and not go marching down to her door and give her a piece of my mind. (Albeit it may be a small one with the way my day has gone today.) One which would include how loud she talks outside my door after midnight, the never ending company she has that never ever seem to leave, but feel free to act like they pay rent and live here and the fact that Sheila (my nice next door neighbor) - on more than one occasion - has taken it upon herself to pick up the trash blowing around the yard, because Kathy has been too LAZY to lift the lid of the garbage receptacle and place her bags inside the dumpster!
If only I had the power of eviction!
(I'd bitch more but it's time to get KC to dance class.)
Crash & Burn
5 paragrapsh in on a new blog entry and what do you think happened?
Oh yeah ... I'm irritated.
Oh yeah ... I'm irritated.
Eeeeew
Feeling extremely icky tonight. Am considering grabbing a blanky and sleeping by the porcelain god, just to play it safe.
More tomorrow.
More tomorrow.
I Want My Cable TV
Crazy people do crazy things. Some people dance around with turtles, some people blow their right testicles off, some swallow hangers while getting hit on the head with a toaster and others simply cannonball themselves into a half gallon of milk. And some people like me, spend their Sunday nights watching them making asses of themselves on national television thanks to Steve Harvey.
Unfortunately, and in the midst of the toaster replay, the television snarled, blipped and then blacked out, with only the sound of crackling static left behind. Now most people automatically assume that the cable popping off is either one of two things, (1) an act of God or (2) a freak accident involving cable lines, cars and slippery roads. But not me. The first thought that came to my mind was, "Hmmm ... I wonder if I paid the cable bill this month?"
So I called down the road to Dad and got my stepmother on the phone.
"Stupid question," I said. "Is your cable working?"
Without even hesitating she answered no, explaining quite a similar experience to mine, though she was watching a different program.
"Now don't take this the wrong way ... But tell me, did you guys pay your cable bill this month?"
"Yes, Stacey." She said in a tired voice, "You can stop worrying now. The entire road is out. It's not just you."
Unfortunately, and in the midst of the toaster replay, the television snarled, blipped and then blacked out, with only the sound of crackling static left behind. Now most people automatically assume that the cable popping off is either one of two things, (1) an act of God or (2) a freak accident involving cable lines, cars and slippery roads. But not me. The first thought that came to my mind was, "Hmmm ... I wonder if I paid the cable bill this month?"
So I called down the road to Dad and got my stepmother on the phone.
"Stupid question," I said. "Is your cable working?"
Without even hesitating she answered no, explaining quite a similar experience to mine, though she was watching a different program.
"Now don't take this the wrong way ... But tell me, did you guys pay your cable bill this month?"
"Yes, Stacey." She said in a tired voice, "You can stop worrying now. The entire road is out. It's not just you."
Email Friendly
Subject: (no subject)
Date: 11/28/2004 9:11:24 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: brendac312
To: stacee557
Hey, Video Nows are on sale at Aldi's for 69.97 and it includes 3 video's. You better get on it quick!!!
_______________________________________
Subject: (no subject)
Date: 11/28/2004 9:13:20 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: brendac312
To: stacee557
Actually, Aldi's is not open on Sunday's ... You better get your Dad on this one tomorrow morning!!!
_______________________________________
Subject: (no subject)
Date: 11/28/2004 9:14:06 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: Stacee557
To: Brendac312
Stop emailing me ... I'm not awake yet!
_______________________________________
Subject: Re: (no subject)
Date: 11/28/2004 9:45:48 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: brendac312
To: Stacee557
I'm not stupid - I know that your pc is not typing by itself jackass!
_______________________________________
Subject: Jackass
Date: 11/28/2004 3:14:46 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Stacee557
To: brendac312
I'm telling Nancy you called her daughter a jackass ... And then I'm telling the other Nancy that she should wash her daughter's mouth out with soap. So there!
Like you really missed me too, I might add. You weren't even home last night when I called to check in and Martin told me you'd gone shopping WITHOUT ME! Of all the nerve! Of course, I am completely broke and couldn't afford to go anyway, but still ... Don't think you're off the hook.
Oh and I've posted your emails on the blog ... Let this be a lesson on the use of foul language. I've been brainwashed by bible country!
And then again, maybe the fuck not ...
Regards,
Stacey
Date: 11/28/2004 9:11:24 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: brendac312
To: stacee557
Hey, Video Nows are on sale at Aldi's for 69.97 and it includes 3 video's. You better get on it quick!!!
_______________________________________
Subject: (no subject)
Date: 11/28/2004 9:13:20 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: brendac312
To: stacee557
Actually, Aldi's is not open on Sunday's ... You better get your Dad on this one tomorrow morning!!!
_______________________________________
Subject: (no subject)
Date: 11/28/2004 9:14:06 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: Stacee557
To: Brendac312
Stop emailing me ... I'm not awake yet!
_______________________________________
Subject: Re: (no subject)
Date: 11/28/2004 9:45:48 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: brendac312
To: Stacee557
I'm not stupid - I know that your pc is not typing by itself jackass!
_______________________________________
Subject: Jackass
Date: 11/28/2004 3:14:46 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Stacee557
To: brendac312
I'm telling Nancy you called her daughter a jackass ... And then I'm telling the other Nancy that she should wash her daughter's mouth out with soap. So there!
Like you really missed me too, I might add. You weren't even home last night when I called to check in and Martin told me you'd gone shopping WITHOUT ME! Of all the nerve! Of course, I am completely broke and couldn't afford to go anyway, but still ... Don't think you're off the hook.
Oh and I've posted your emails on the blog ... Let this be a lesson on the use of foul language. I've been brainwashed by bible country!
And then again, maybe the fuck not ...
Regards,
Stacey
Vindicated!
A ha fucking ha!
I did not hear voices in my sleep! It turns our my stupid and most heinous neighbor Kathy is having something of a little get together just two doors down. And as usual, people leaving her apartment cannot keep their mouth shut long enough to just get to their cars and drive away ... No, they've got to wake everyone up in the process of their leaving. (Must write a note to the landlord about that ...)
And it also turns the fuck out that the voice was calling Kathy - okay so it doesn't even sound close to Stacey, but hey I will remind you I was in full REM sleep when I heard this, so take it with a grain of salt and all that. Anyhoo, at least I feel better about not hearing phantom voices. I'd really hate to think I was the new John Edwards in town ... Not when I can guarantee that my personal constitution just couldn't take that. You are after all listening to the ramblings of a girl who was scared of ET, checked underneath her bed for monsters every night, slept with (and sometimes still sleeps) with a light on, has a no limbs outside the confines of the comforter while slumbering rule and has on more than one occasion yelled Mommy when waking from a bad dream.
Of course, none of this sounds too bad until I mention that fact that I'm 30 and still practicing these same routines ... OY.
I did not hear voices in my sleep! It turns our my stupid and most heinous neighbor Kathy is having something of a little get together just two doors down. And as usual, people leaving her apartment cannot keep their mouth shut long enough to just get to their cars and drive away ... No, they've got to wake everyone up in the process of their leaving. (Must write a note to the landlord about that ...)
And it also turns the fuck out that the voice was calling Kathy - okay so it doesn't even sound close to Stacey, but hey I will remind you I was in full REM sleep when I heard this, so take it with a grain of salt and all that. Anyhoo, at least I feel better about not hearing phantom voices. I'd really hate to think I was the new John Edwards in town ... Not when I can guarantee that my personal constitution just couldn't take that. You are after all listening to the ramblings of a girl who was scared of ET, checked underneath her bed for monsters every night, slept with (and sometimes still sleeps) with a light on, has a no limbs outside the confines of the comforter while slumbering rule and has on more than one occasion yelled Mommy when waking from a bad dream.
Of course, none of this sounds too bad until I mention that fact that I'm 30 and still practicing these same routines ... OY.
Angry Wind Paranoia
I thought I heard somebody calling my name. It's why I'm up. I can't explain any other reason to pull myself from my bed at this hour other than I thought for sure someone - a man's voice -had called my name up the stairs. And it freaked me out.
Motionless in my bed, I ran through the list. Screen door locked, checked ... Front door locked, checked ... Back door locked, checked ... Windows, blinds all checked. Impossible and yet, what if someone were down there in my living room? What if there was a family emergency? What if I was only imagining it all and just wanted to go back to sleep?
And that's why I'm down here, tele presently on watching a Bridget Jone's trailer (I'm so seeing that this week) having checked every room, points of entry, and nabbing a cup of water in one fell swoop. Water because it's the only damn thing left in my empty fridge. Guess I can add grocery shopping to my list of things to do today, granted I wake up at a reasonable hour after all this.
The wind is blowing something fierce outside, angrily banging the wind chimes together in an eerie tune and I'm quite sure it was my outside broom that took a tumble just a moment ago with a big old smack against cement. Perhaps the wind was actually the voice I heard? Hmmm ...
Motionless in my bed, I ran through the list. Screen door locked, checked ... Front door locked, checked ... Back door locked, checked ... Windows, blinds all checked. Impossible and yet, what if someone were down there in my living room? What if there was a family emergency? What if I was only imagining it all and just wanted to go back to sleep?
And that's why I'm down here, tele presently on watching a Bridget Jone's trailer (I'm so seeing that this week) having checked every room, points of entry, and nabbing a cup of water in one fell swoop. Water because it's the only damn thing left in my empty fridge. Guess I can add grocery shopping to my list of things to do today, granted I wake up at a reasonable hour after all this.
The wind is blowing something fierce outside, angrily banging the wind chimes together in an eerie tune and I'm quite sure it was my outside broom that took a tumble just a moment ago with a big old smack against cement. Perhaps the wind was actually the voice I heard? Hmmm ...
Home Again, Home Again
Too tired to blog other than to say that we've safely made it home, my ass is number than it has ever been before, and all our animals have been accounted for - thankfully alive and well, though it seems the cats managed to cause some serious havoc. (That or I'm imagining the shredded paper trail of evidence.)
Tomorrow is however another day, and after I sleep in until noon, I might think about tidying the house up some ... If not, there's always the day after tomorrow. Now is not the time for action nor thinking.
I'm to bed.
Tomorrow is however another day, and after I sleep in until noon, I might think about tidying the house up some ... If not, there's always the day after tomorrow. Now is not the time for action nor thinking.
I'm to bed.
Sad Goodbyes
A bit melancholy tonight with tomorrow's impending departure despite the fact that it seems far too soon to be leaving. And though it seems like I just pulled into the driveway, I've spent the last hour packing bags and loading up the car in readiness to be on the road long before the sun comes up in this Southern sky.
I've also decided to drive straight through. No motel stops, no overnights, just second star to the right and staight on to home. But funny in a sad hollow sort of way, that even as I plan on going home, I feel as if I'm leaving it just the same.
And so now I've brought myself to tears, with a stinging ache stuck at the back of my throat, as I try to stay quiet so that no one else will hear. And I think so myself, it always hurts like hell to leave.
I've also decided to drive straight through. No motel stops, no overnights, just second star to the right and staight on to home. But funny in a sad hollow sort of way, that even as I plan on going home, I feel as if I'm leaving it just the same.
And so now I've brought myself to tears, with a stinging ache stuck at the back of my throat, as I try to stay quiet so that no one else will hear. And I think so myself, it always hurts like hell to leave.
Happy Turkey Day
There are so many things to be thankful for, that one day out of the year doesn't seem near sufficient enough to recognize all of them.
That being said, a heartfelt thanks to my family, my closest and oldest friends, and an ever increasing number of new friends, who have made this year even better than the one before.
Happy Holidays to you all. May your lives be filled with peace, love, and laughter.
That being said, a heartfelt thanks to my family, my closest and oldest friends, and an ever increasing number of new friends, who have made this year even better than the one before.
Happy Holidays to you all. May your lives be filled with peace, love, and laughter.
Doesn't It Just Figure
With a day of cooking looming large in my future tomorrow, I have no other choice but to turn in for the night and get some sleep ... That being said, I expect a full report in my email from Ms. Brenda Gail on the latest news from the wire while I attempt to manage the final dashing of all my teenage hopes and dreams on the sharp rocks of love and reality ... In other words, so much for the farm boy fantasy. (As if I wasn't over it years ago ...)
Still since he did manage to have his daughter born on my birthday, I wonder if there's any chance they'll name her Stacey? It's a lovely name, really it is. Perhaps I should email the suggestion ...
On a weird note that may finally prove I'm psychic, Mom and I were watching Footloose tonight and I was saying how farm boy somewhat resembled the young Kevin Bacon back in the day. And all this before I read Bren's comment! Amazing!
Still since he did manage to have his daughter born on my birthday, I wonder if there's any chance they'll name her Stacey? It's a lovely name, really it is. Perhaps I should email the suggestion ...
On a weird note that may finally prove I'm psychic, Mom and I were watching Footloose tonight and I was saying how farm boy somewhat resembled the young Kevin Bacon back in the day. And all this before I read Bren's comment! Amazing!
A Message To & From Home
Subject:Cats
Date:11/23/2004 9:39:36 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: Stacey
To: Dad
CC: Jodi
Ooops ... Almost forgot to remind you to take care of my babies while I'm gone ...
Dad, I know you won't pet them as you don't like cats, but Jodi, if you could give them a bit of attention while I'm gone, I'd appreciate it. They're not used to being alone for so long and may get a bit lonely and nervous that I'm not there.
Thanks and Love,
Stacey
______________________________________
Subject: Re: Cats
Date: 11/23/2004 4:56:10 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Dad
To: Stacey
You owe me big bucks ... Had to take the cats to the shrink's .... They were going through depression and felt that nobody loved them ... Course they've had food on a daily basis so they were confused ... lol Dad.
______________________________________
Why oh why is everyone in my family a comedian?
Date:11/23/2004 9:39:36 AM Eastern Standard Time
From: Stacey
To: Dad
CC: Jodi
Ooops ... Almost forgot to remind you to take care of my babies while I'm gone ...
Dad, I know you won't pet them as you don't like cats, but Jodi, if you could give them a bit of attention while I'm gone, I'd appreciate it. They're not used to being alone for so long and may get a bit lonely and nervous that I'm not there.
Thanks and Love,
Stacey
______________________________________
Subject: Re: Cats
Date: 11/23/2004 4:56:10 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: Dad
To: Stacey
You owe me big bucks ... Had to take the cats to the shrink's .... They were going through depression and felt that nobody loved them ... Course they've had food on a daily basis so they were confused ... lol Dad.
______________________________________
Why oh why is everyone in my family a comedian?
Rainy Tuesday
Outside a cold, wet blanket of fog stretches lazily across the lake and though I hoped to spend a quiet morning alone with my observations and a gentle rain falling, the early hour of the day was not enough to inspire others to linger in their beds, and out of my seriously bedridden hair.
Crinkling a plastic bag, KC stands in the kitchen on step stool, pouring not one, but two different kinds of cereals into the same bowl. A practice not normally performed at home, but seemingly a good idea while at Grandma's.
Mother meanwhile is cleaning up the kitchen once again, like a rare addiction to Windex and the Queen of Clean. It should be noted however that her house is far more organized then mine could ever dream of being, leaving me not much room to talk as procrastination is usually the name of my game.
Proclaiming today a day of rest, and quite rightly so since my legs are still on fire from yesterday's outing, I'm all for having a lazy, do nothing day today. My Mother however thinks it's a good time to do the laundry, proving once again how different we sometimes think.
Despite my lameness, I wouldn't have missed our trip to North Carolina's Zoological Park. An impressive place to be sure and one filled with gloriously wild animals in habitats crafted to closely resemble their native homes. Between the four of us who went, it was quickly decided that among our favorites, the following animals had stolen our hearts: a playful polar bear eating apples, sea lions gracefully performing an underwater ballet, long legged giraffes nimbly nibbling at the trees, and two small and very playful lion cubs tumbling over each other in their quest to rob a fallen tree branch from the other. In a word, it was all just positively wonderful.
More from me later ... Breakfast calls.
Crinkling a plastic bag, KC stands in the kitchen on step stool, pouring not one, but two different kinds of cereals into the same bowl. A practice not normally performed at home, but seemingly a good idea while at Grandma's.
Mother meanwhile is cleaning up the kitchen once again, like a rare addiction to Windex and the Queen of Clean. It should be noted however that her house is far more organized then mine could ever dream of being, leaving me not much room to talk as procrastination is usually the name of my game.
Proclaiming today a day of rest, and quite rightly so since my legs are still on fire from yesterday's outing, I'm all for having a lazy, do nothing day today. My Mother however thinks it's a good time to do the laundry, proving once again how different we sometimes think.
Despite my lameness, I wouldn't have missed our trip to North Carolina's Zoological Park. An impressive place to be sure and one filled with gloriously wild animals in habitats crafted to closely resemble their native homes. Between the four of us who went, it was quickly decided that among our favorites, the following animals had stolen our hearts: a playful polar bear eating apples, sea lions gracefully performing an underwater ballet, long legged giraffes nimbly nibbling at the trees, and two small and very playful lion cubs tumbling over each other in their quest to rob a fallen tree branch from the other. In a word, it was all just positively wonderful.
More from me later ... Breakfast calls.
A Morning On Appaloosa Lake
Cold autumn breeze against my face
I listen to the wind rustle through the trees,
watching as the leaves fall, sometimes one by one,
but more often like a dry rain of faded color.
Three birds sit perched on one side of the feeder,
yellow breasted, small and delicate.
Almost close enough to touch,
they pick hungrily at the seed.
My daughter stands at the edge of the lake,
fishing pole in hand, chattering her own sing song tune.
Perhaps -I think to tell her - if she is quiet enough,
she may catch a fish. But she is happy in her noise
and in her efforts.
And who am I to tell her why the fish won’t bite?
My way is not the only way.
She calls for me to join her
and with camera in hand in case she manages a catch, I go.
My job to snap the pictures,
save the memories
and transcribe the events.
I listen to the wind rustle through the trees,
watching as the leaves fall, sometimes one by one,
but more often like a dry rain of faded color.
Three birds sit perched on one side of the feeder,
yellow breasted, small and delicate.
Almost close enough to touch,
they pick hungrily at the seed.
My daughter stands at the edge of the lake,
fishing pole in hand, chattering her own sing song tune.
Perhaps -I think to tell her - if she is quiet enough,
she may catch a fish. But she is happy in her noise
and in her efforts.
And who am I to tell her why the fish won’t bite?
My way is not the only way.
She calls for me to join her
and with camera in hand in case she manages a catch, I go.
My job to snap the pictures,
save the memories
and transcribe the events.
So Sleepy
And so we made it, none the worse for wear though a bit tired after a long trek and one wrong turn at the very end, thanks to Mom's mistake in specifying a left when it should have been a right.
Amazingly enough, I remained calm and confident in crisis, pulling the vehicle back around (after recognizing downtown Robbins) and made my way back to where I should have gone right in the first place. All in all, it was a 10 minute error quickly fixed and I was quite impressed to have come through it so well without any melodrama or a sudden burst of panic induced tears.
Hmmm ... Perhaps I've gained some wisdom now that I am the venerable age of thirty ... And then again, maybe not.
Thanks to all of you out there who sent your well wishes for both my trip and my own personal holiday. I appreciate every one of them, and every one of you for taking the time to write it down and send out your support. Now if only you'd all send money ... Gas is expensive!
With my eyes burning a hole in my head, I'm about to douse the lights and call it a night. I'm beat, both physically and emotionally. And it's funny, I never seem to realize just how much I miss having my Mom around on a daily basis, until we're back together.
Amazingly enough, I remained calm and confident in crisis, pulling the vehicle back around (after recognizing downtown Robbins) and made my way back to where I should have gone right in the first place. All in all, it was a 10 minute error quickly fixed and I was quite impressed to have come through it so well without any melodrama or a sudden burst of panic induced tears.
Hmmm ... Perhaps I've gained some wisdom now that I am the venerable age of thirty ... And then again, maybe not.
Thanks to all of you out there who sent your well wishes for both my trip and my own personal holiday. I appreciate every one of them, and every one of you for taking the time to write it down and send out your support. Now if only you'd all send money ... Gas is expensive!
With my eyes burning a hole in my head, I'm about to douse the lights and call it a night. I'm beat, both physically and emotionally. And it's funny, I never seem to realize just how much I miss having my Mom around on a daily basis, until we're back together.
On the Road Again
So I'm feeling a little like Willie Nelson at the moment. And having just taken a shower, I have realized a few of the things I've forgotten, that unfortunately were essentials. Without conditioner, as the lovely place I'm staying at was only kind enough to provide the shampoo, I've spent the last ten minutes trying to brush the rat nest from my hair. Not an easy thing to do, when every stroke brings you pain. Oy.
Anyhoo, it's back on the road again here in a few minutes. A fact KC is surely not going to like as I rouse her from her slumber. Oh well, at least the kids get to sleep in the car ... Which means, I'm singing all the way to NC.
Oh and yeah ... Happy Birthday to me!
Anyhoo, it's back on the road again here in a few minutes. A fact KC is surely not going to like as I rouse her from her slumber. Oh well, at least the kids get to sleep in the car ... Which means, I'm singing all the way to NC.
Oh and yeah ... Happy Birthday to me!
Blogging On the Road
Greetings and Salutations from Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, my halfway mark to destination North Carolina.
And having gotten this far, I have come to the conclusion that (a) traveling with children is not for the weak of heart, (b) there are only so many times you can say, "No, we're not there yet." without getting highly agitated, (c) making your daughter's pajamas talk in a high pitched squeaky voice to enduce her to quit the whining and put them on while maintaining said sanity which is precariously hanging in the balance as it is, is the only way you can make yourself laugh and not run screaming for the hills, and (d) on the eve of your 30th birthday, there are surely better things you could be doing with your time than spending it with two minor children intent on annoying each other in any manner possible.
On that note, I'm exhausted, I lost feeling in my ass four hours ago, my mental condition is deteriorating, and someone - and I don't know who, other than the fact that I am 100% sure it's not me - smells like onions.
More tomorrow if I survive the night ...
And having gotten this far, I have come to the conclusion that (a) traveling with children is not for the weak of heart, (b) there are only so many times you can say, "No, we're not there yet." without getting highly agitated, (c) making your daughter's pajamas talk in a high pitched squeaky voice to enduce her to quit the whining and put them on while maintaining said sanity which is precariously hanging in the balance as it is, is the only way you can make yourself laugh and not run screaming for the hills, and (d) on the eve of your 30th birthday, there are surely better things you could be doing with your time than spending it with two minor children intent on annoying each other in any manner possible.
On that note, I'm exhausted, I lost feeling in my ass four hours ago, my mental condition is deteriorating, and someone - and I don't know who, other than the fact that I am 100% sure it's not me - smells like onions.
More tomorrow if I survive the night ...
In Queue at the DMV
Went to the DMV to renew my license and have decided after being blinded by the intense white light they call a flash, that there is absolutely no way anyone's picture can come out well. Not only am I sure I blinked, but I'll bet the bank that I'm going to appear completely washed out, like a long lost relative of Casper the Friendly Ghost.
Luckily for me, I don't get proofed all that often so this is something I really shouldn't have to worry about.
Not much else going on ... Work is having a corporate sponsored luncheon tomorrow to reward us all for our stellar October performance in both production and sales. Perhaps however it's all just a clever cover for an "Oh my goodness, you did this all for me?" birthday surprise.
And then again, maybe not.
As I told Linda today, I have a right to be a spoiled brat on my birthday. It's the only holiday I know that's all about me!
Linda is now convinced I'm turning five rather than thirty. She may be right.
Luckily for me, I don't get proofed all that often so this is something I really shouldn't have to worry about.
Not much else going on ... Work is having a corporate sponsored luncheon tomorrow to reward us all for our stellar October performance in both production and sales. Perhaps however it's all just a clever cover for an "Oh my goodness, you did this all for me?" birthday surprise.
And then again, maybe not.
As I told Linda today, I have a right to be a spoiled brat on my birthday. It's the only holiday I know that's all about me!
Linda is now convinced I'm turning five rather than thirty. She may be right.
Self Setting Alarm Clocks
Broke my own personal record of stupid moves this morning, after realizing I'd manage to sleep in as if it were Saturday. Evidently my cleaning binge and secret love affair with Mr. Clean's Magic Eraser last night, left me so exhausted that I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.
Waking up with way too much sunlight streaming in my bedroom window, it was fairly obvious that I was already late for work. Turning my head slowly and with just one eye open to gauge the time, I couldn't help but emit an evil laugh, as I realized just how late it was.
Grabbing the phone, I quickly dialed the job and was further confused when Joe answered the line rather than one of the receptionists. Tired, confused and dealing with a major rush of holy shit I'm late, I proceeded to tell Joe what was going on, to which he responded, "Who's this?"
"It's either your worst nightmare or Stacey," I said, "Take your pick, but remember I have a long memory."
Explaining once again, and this time slower as to be understood, I told him I would get there as soon as possible. And I did, 45 minutes later.
Lucky for me, I have a very understanding boss who understands my special needs. Or at least likes me well enough to overlook my early morning issues, or issues in general - of which I have many. Email me, I'll tell you them all.
Despite all this, and the constant ribbing I got all day long whenever someone had the opportunity to find a way to mock my lateness, the day went extremely well. So well in fact, that I think I'll go back tomorrow, this time on time.
That being said, I better get my ass to bed before I make a liar out of myself. Until we meet again, this is Stacey over and out.
Waking up with way too much sunlight streaming in my bedroom window, it was fairly obvious that I was already late for work. Turning my head slowly and with just one eye open to gauge the time, I couldn't help but emit an evil laugh, as I realized just how late it was.
Grabbing the phone, I quickly dialed the job and was further confused when Joe answered the line rather than one of the receptionists. Tired, confused and dealing with a major rush of holy shit I'm late, I proceeded to tell Joe what was going on, to which he responded, "Who's this?"
"It's either your worst nightmare or Stacey," I said, "Take your pick, but remember I have a long memory."
Explaining once again, and this time slower as to be understood, I told him I would get there as soon as possible. And I did, 45 minutes later.
Lucky for me, I have a very understanding boss who understands my special needs. Or at least likes me well enough to overlook my early morning issues, or issues in general - of which I have many. Email me, I'll tell you them all.
Despite all this, and the constant ribbing I got all day long whenever someone had the opportunity to find a way to mock my lateness, the day went extremely well. So well in fact, that I think I'll go back tomorrow, this time on time.
That being said, I better get my ass to bed before I make a liar out of myself. Until we meet again, this is Stacey over and out.
Things That Make You Go Hmmmm
I just cleaned the bathroom floor with a scrub brush. Someone call the doctor, I think I must be ill.
Counting Down the Days
Starting to feel a bit panicked with the upcoming road trip looming just a few days away. I wish there was a way I could shut these feelings down, the ones that cripple me with fear and will surely cause my hands to grip the steering wheel far too tight for ten hours.
Despite the fact that I have made this drive just once before, and should be confident knowing it's already on my list of things I've done, I'm still scared to death that somehow I'm going to make the wrong turn, get horribly lost and never be seen from again.
Meanwhile, Mother continues to council me that most of the journey is a straight line south, and one that shouldn't worry me over much. Perhaps if there were no other cars on the road, and my car was equipped with a GPS tracking system, along with one of those talking map things, I might feel a little more secure about the whole idea in general.
I have however decided that trying to drive the entire distance in one day is for the birds and far too tiring for one person unused to such a journey to attempt alone. Or in my case, as the only person in the car with a license to drive and two kids I hope will pass on the opportunity to be back seat drivers. That however remains to be seen.
So I'm all about deep breaths in, and deep breaths out at the moment. Reminding myself, very much like the little engine that could, I think I can, I think I can, I think I can ...
Despite the fact that I have made this drive just once before, and should be confident knowing it's already on my list of things I've done, I'm still scared to death that somehow I'm going to make the wrong turn, get horribly lost and never be seen from again.
Meanwhile, Mother continues to council me that most of the journey is a straight line south, and one that shouldn't worry me over much. Perhaps if there were no other cars on the road, and my car was equipped with a GPS tracking system, along with one of those talking map things, I might feel a little more secure about the whole idea in general.
I have however decided that trying to drive the entire distance in one day is for the birds and far too tiring for one person unused to such a journey to attempt alone. Or in my case, as the only person in the car with a license to drive and two kids I hope will pass on the opportunity to be back seat drivers. That however remains to be seen.
So I'm all about deep breaths in, and deep breaths out at the moment. Reminding myself, very much like the little engine that could, I think I can, I think I can, I think I can ...
A Slow Mend
Just finished the book I bought from B&N last night, and admit to having cried a few tears at its completion. But then again, a few tears shed over a good book are certainly worth every turn of the page its words are written on.
And though it seemed like luck, stopping right when I did, the cover a robin's egg blue calling me from it's perch on the shelf, it felt more like fate was guiding my hands to something I was meant to see.
Immediately drawn to the title, my eyes focused on the purple lines that dissected the cover into fragments, including a solitary woman, face down, eyes closed. And I recognized the feeling. The feeling of being shattered pieces of yourself, even if no one but yourself could see.
I hadn't meant to buy the book, but I was lost within moments of reading the first paragraph, and knew I wouldn't walk away without it. I hope the author won't mind me posting a bit of what caught my eye.
While the woman sleeps and dreams of all that breaks, come into this house of many rooms. Once your eyes adjust to the darkness, beginning to take in what is visible, you may notice a silence that is not quite silent. There is another language being spoken here, a tongue that emanates from white clay, fire, the oils of many skins, the fusion of rent spirits and matter. The woman hears this language always, even in her sleep, because she is guilty, and because those who speak to her are never silent. But for you, the innocent, there may only be a humming, a distant drone.
-an excerpt from the Prologue of Broken For You, a novel by Stephanie Kallos.
And though it seemed like luck, stopping right when I did, the cover a robin's egg blue calling me from it's perch on the shelf, it felt more like fate was guiding my hands to something I was meant to see.
Immediately drawn to the title, my eyes focused on the purple lines that dissected the cover into fragments, including a solitary woman, face down, eyes closed. And I recognized the feeling. The feeling of being shattered pieces of yourself, even if no one but yourself could see.
I hadn't meant to buy the book, but I was lost within moments of reading the first paragraph, and knew I wouldn't walk away without it. I hope the author won't mind me posting a bit of what caught my eye.
While the woman sleeps and dreams of all that breaks, come into this house of many rooms. Once your eyes adjust to the darkness, beginning to take in what is visible, you may notice a silence that is not quite silent. There is another language being spoken here, a tongue that emanates from white clay, fire, the oils of many skins, the fusion of rent spirits and matter. The woman hears this language always, even in her sleep, because she is guilty, and because those who speak to her are never silent. But for you, the innocent, there may only be a humming, a distant drone.
-an excerpt from the Prologue of Broken For You, a novel by Stephanie Kallos.
Old Antics
Fun night tonight going out with Brenda.
Went to dinner and flirted shamelessly with the puppy faced waiter, though it was more for fun than any actual interest. And had to make a quick run for it at the door, as Bren decided to leave a love note on the table along with the check, which read something along the lines of calling us any time at the following number, 867-5309. Though I'm quite sure he was far younger than either of us, and wouldn't get the joke.
From there it was shopping and a stop at Barnes and Noble where I submitted to my weakness and bought two books, of which I will talk more about tomorrow when my head isn't so fuzzy from being so tired.
Meanwhile Martin was kind enough to take a look at my laptop and do some much needed tweaking, while we were out about town acting like idiots and scoring free popcorn. Although now that I think of it, I didn't get any of that free popcorn, though you won't hear me complain. I'm not a big fan of the nasty stuff.
I'd write more but doubting it would make any more sense that what I've already written, I might as well take myself upstairs, slide beneath the fuzzy blankets and call it a night.
Went to dinner and flirted shamelessly with the puppy faced waiter, though it was more for fun than any actual interest. And had to make a quick run for it at the door, as Bren decided to leave a love note on the table along with the check, which read something along the lines of calling us any time at the following number, 867-5309. Though I'm quite sure he was far younger than either of us, and wouldn't get the joke.
From there it was shopping and a stop at Barnes and Noble where I submitted to my weakness and bought two books, of which I will talk more about tomorrow when my head isn't so fuzzy from being so tired.
Meanwhile Martin was kind enough to take a look at my laptop and do some much needed tweaking, while we were out about town acting like idiots and scoring free popcorn. Although now that I think of it, I didn't get any of that free popcorn, though you won't hear me complain. I'm not a big fan of the nasty stuff.
I'd write more but doubting it would make any more sense that what I've already written, I might as well take myself upstairs, slide beneath the fuzzy blankets and call it a night.
Not Another Bright Idea!
I'm thinking about audio blogging my trip to North Carolina next week. That way when I get lost - as I'm prone to do - I can send out an SOS to the world, rather than relying on my Mother alone to find me in that great big somewhere out there.
Of course, I haven't taken into consideration that I can't even manage to change out a CD without almost going off the road, let alone talking into a phone while worrying how dumb my voice might sound recorded.
The ultimate horror however, would be if I were to forget to shut the phone down, and you all caught me singing along with my favorite tunes. Not that I can't sing, cause I've heard myself in the shower and I'm damn good, but I'd still be embarrassed just the same.
Or maybe I could just get my own CB radio and talk trucker for ten straight hours. Hmmm ... Something to think about.
Of course, I haven't taken into consideration that I can't even manage to change out a CD without almost going off the road, let alone talking into a phone while worrying how dumb my voice might sound recorded.
The ultimate horror however, would be if I were to forget to shut the phone down, and you all caught me singing along with my favorite tunes. Not that I can't sing, cause I've heard myself in the shower and I'm damn good, but I'd still be embarrassed just the same.
Or maybe I could just get my own CB radio and talk trucker for ten straight hours. Hmmm ... Something to think about.
Proof Positive
Found a little good news in my snail mailbox last night, a reply from the rental management company to inform me that my request for a modified rent raise had been granted. A major sigh of relief for me, as a $25.00 hike is far more affordable than a $50.00 hike. Especially when considering this time of year, with Christmas gifts looming large on the horizon, and my paycheck dwindling with each passing day.
So it's proof positive people. A little elbow grease, a few polite words on paper, and a genuine plea for help, will often garner the results you'd hope for.
So it's proof positive people. A little elbow grease, a few polite words on paper, and a genuine plea for help, will often garner the results you'd hope for.
Parent/Teacher
Managed to fall asleep last night, with the TV on, with the lights on, and didn't even bother to wake up when the alarm went off at 5:30 this morning for what was supposed to be an early start.
An early start to the day so I can leave work early this afternoon to attend KC's parent/teacher conference. And despite my fears that this was going to be another year of fighting some old battle-axe in a desperate attempt to remind her that kids have just got to be kids and not little grown-ups all the time, my fears have gone unfounded.
In fact, this teacher has really impressed me with the creativity she allows in the classroom, and the positive manner in which she presents new ideas to the students. And KC's report card has given proof that the happier she is with a teacher, the better her grades, and the better her behavior.
An early start to the day so I can leave work early this afternoon to attend KC's parent/teacher conference. And despite my fears that this was going to be another year of fighting some old battle-axe in a desperate attempt to remind her that kids have just got to be kids and not little grown-ups all the time, my fears have gone unfounded.
In fact, this teacher has really impressed me with the creativity she allows in the classroom, and the positive manner in which she presents new ideas to the students. And KC's report card has given proof that the happier she is with a teacher, the better her grades, and the better her behavior.
Alone In a Crowd
When it comes to whispering around the water cooler, my office certainly has no problem telling a tale ten times over. On a normal day, you can always count on at least three people to tell everything and anything they happen to know.
Last week was no different. Except this time, rumor was confirmed by fact. Someone we all work with had been arrested and hauled off to jail for something he had on his hard drive. Now I'm not one to throw stones without just cause, but it seems to me, that if they had enough reason to confiscate his computer and take his ass off to jail, then being innocent until proven guilty seems somewhat null and void.
Of course, that doesn't mean I believe everything I read. I'm quite positive that I'm not still that naive. I do however know just enough about this person to come to my own conclusions. And if you asked me my honest opinion, I'd tell you in plain English, that I think he's guilty as hell.
And as far as I'm concerned, there is a line that should never, ever be crossed. And it makes me sick, quite literally, that at a meeting held at the end of last week, we were all told that we have to respect his "rights" and keep our mouths shut, so as not to get ourselves into trouble.
So when the big boss asked if there was anyone who had a problem working with this individual, you can bet your Thanksgiving turkey, that I opened my mouth and said YES! I on the other hand was surprised to realize that I was the only one raising an objection, even though 3/4 of the office had been of the same opinion five minutes prior to the meeting.
Looking around at all the faces, all suddenly quite enthralled with the tiled floors, they sat mute listening to me, not bothering to offer up any of their own objections. And to tell you the truth, I was pretty pissed. Pissed because they know me so well, they knew they could count on me to speak my mind, while keeping silent on the sidelines.
But what burns me even more, is that after this meeting was done, two people yanked me into the women's bathroom for an Ally McBeal moment and said, "Well, we wanted to say something, but we didn't want to make waves."
Complete and utter bullshit if you ask me. Cause like it or not, when someone asks me my opinion, I'm not the kind of girl to hold back and play nice. I live more by the theory, don't ask unless you really want to know. And I'm certainly going to speak my mind if something makes me uncomfortable.
Unfortunately it doesn't change the fact that at the moment this guy is back in the company fold, whether any of us want him to be or not. And right now, all there is to do is wait, and hope justice is swift and served up on a platter.
Last week was no different. Except this time, rumor was confirmed by fact. Someone we all work with had been arrested and hauled off to jail for something he had on his hard drive. Now I'm not one to throw stones without just cause, but it seems to me, that if they had enough reason to confiscate his computer and take his ass off to jail, then being innocent until proven guilty seems somewhat null and void.
Of course, that doesn't mean I believe everything I read. I'm quite positive that I'm not still that naive. I do however know just enough about this person to come to my own conclusions. And if you asked me my honest opinion, I'd tell you in plain English, that I think he's guilty as hell.
And as far as I'm concerned, there is a line that should never, ever be crossed. And it makes me sick, quite literally, that at a meeting held at the end of last week, we were all told that we have to respect his "rights" and keep our mouths shut, so as not to get ourselves into trouble.
So when the big boss asked if there was anyone who had a problem working with this individual, you can bet your Thanksgiving turkey, that I opened my mouth and said YES! I on the other hand was surprised to realize that I was the only one raising an objection, even though 3/4 of the office had been of the same opinion five minutes prior to the meeting.
Looking around at all the faces, all suddenly quite enthralled with the tiled floors, they sat mute listening to me, not bothering to offer up any of their own objections. And to tell you the truth, I was pretty pissed. Pissed because they know me so well, they knew they could count on me to speak my mind, while keeping silent on the sidelines.
But what burns me even more, is that after this meeting was done, two people yanked me into the women's bathroom for an Ally McBeal moment and said, "Well, we wanted to say something, but we didn't want to make waves."
Complete and utter bullshit if you ask me. Cause like it or not, when someone asks me my opinion, I'm not the kind of girl to hold back and play nice. I live more by the theory, don't ask unless you really want to know. And I'm certainly going to speak my mind if something makes me uncomfortable.
Unfortunately it doesn't change the fact that at the moment this guy is back in the company fold, whether any of us want him to be or not. And right now, all there is to do is wait, and hope justice is swift and served up on a platter.
Monday Blues
I slept like a rock and feel like I'm going to puke. Not exactly the way I wanted to start out my work week, but there it is.
According to the local weather reports, we're about to get nailed with some serious lake effect snow, and rather than complain about it, I'm going to appreciate the fact that it's the second week of November, and thus far we've gotten off easily. Still it would be nice if it could hold off another 2 weeks or so, just long enough for me to make my trip to Mom's and back.
Sounds like KC just literally fell out of bed. That or Octavia has finally managed to bring down the bird cage. I got a little concerned last night after a loud crash was followed by the sound of silence. The silence unusual since prior to the big bang, Lizzie and Fitzwilliam were chirping up a storm. Giving it a minute, even though I was picturing the worst possibility - Octavia with a mouth full of blue and yellow bird feathers and an innocent look that said, "Hey, it wasn't me," I waited it out until the chatter started up again.
Not really prepared to face a day at the office with the infinite amount of gloating Republicans in house. I am hoping at some point they all get down from their moral high horses and continue on with life as normal. Not that it was ever normal, but even I have to admit, I'm a bit sick and tired of the political divide atmosphere we've undecidely thrived in these past few months. As for me, it gets lonely being one of the few liberals in house. Especially when people keep trying to brain wash you into thinking you're not as liberal as you think. Hmmmm ... Last time I checked, I supported most - if not all - of the issues that GWB is against. Blimey!
Ach well, time to don the war paint, find today's choice B shirt, and gain about 2 inches of assisted height.
According to the local weather reports, we're about to get nailed with some serious lake effect snow, and rather than complain about it, I'm going to appreciate the fact that it's the second week of November, and thus far we've gotten off easily. Still it would be nice if it could hold off another 2 weeks or so, just long enough for me to make my trip to Mom's and back.
Sounds like KC just literally fell out of bed. That or Octavia has finally managed to bring down the bird cage. I got a little concerned last night after a loud crash was followed by the sound of silence. The silence unusual since prior to the big bang, Lizzie and Fitzwilliam were chirping up a storm. Giving it a minute, even though I was picturing the worst possibility - Octavia with a mouth full of blue and yellow bird feathers and an innocent look that said, "Hey, it wasn't me," I waited it out until the chatter started up again.
Not really prepared to face a day at the office with the infinite amount of gloating Republicans in house. I am hoping at some point they all get down from their moral high horses and continue on with life as normal. Not that it was ever normal, but even I have to admit, I'm a bit sick and tired of the political divide atmosphere we've undecidely thrived in these past few months. As for me, it gets lonely being one of the few liberals in house. Especially when people keep trying to brain wash you into thinking you're not as liberal as you think. Hmmmm ... Last time I checked, I supported most - if not all - of the issues that GWB is against. Blimey!
Ach well, time to don the war paint, find today's choice B shirt, and gain about 2 inches of assisted height.
The Trouble With Being Female
Pretty much stayed on the couch all day, watching bad movies, sneaking in a cat nap, and trying to ingore the horrible cramping pains that had me twisting about like a rung towel. And it would be just my luck that I was completely out of advil and in no mood to brave the roads and a half hour round trip to the store to purchase something that would have given me some relief.
Worse yet, the pains have yet to ease and it's all I can do to focus on a single thought when it feels as if I'm in the throes of labor once again. Except of course without the mind numbing demetrol, or whatever it was they fed me through the pipeline.
Consider me posted. I'm crawling upstairs to bed.
Worse yet, the pains have yet to ease and it's all I can do to focus on a single thought when it feels as if I'm in the throes of labor once again. Except of course without the mind numbing demetrol, or whatever it was they fed me through the pipeline.
Consider me posted. I'm crawling upstairs to bed.
Cat Times Two
Hair held back with one of KC's plastic headbands and a face painted white with Noxema, I am the ultimate girl about home tonight. And at the moment, I've also got a small black kitten attached to the bottom of my foot, where she has happily taken to biting my toes every few seconds, enjoying my frantic knee jerk response as I try to pry her off.
For a moment, I almost feel bad for Emma, realizing what life must be like for her everyday when KC and I hustle off to work and school, leaving her alone with Octavia whom we more commonly refer to as "Trouble". And she is trouble.
Just yesterday I caught her sliding down the banister, hiding in the laundry hamper, swinging from the broomstick angel, dipping her paws into the fish tank, and swan diving from the table directly on top of an unsuspecting Emma, and all this within the space of 10 minutes - swear to God.
And she's driving us all nuts. Even poor KC who came into my bedroom yesterday morning, complaining that Octavia had woken her up by repeatedly nudging against her face with her paws in a desperate attempt to play at almost 5 in the morning.
Still it's hard not to love the little ball of fluff, even despite the fact that she thinks she's a press on the window Garfield attachment whenever I forget and leave the front screen door open. And even harder still when she gets tired of being such a pain in the ass and crawls into your lap for a cuddle, where she promptly falls asleep and appears almost angelic, except for the fact that you know better having seen her in action.
But it wouldn't be home without her now. And I think even Emma would agree.
For a moment, I almost feel bad for Emma, realizing what life must be like for her everyday when KC and I hustle off to work and school, leaving her alone with Octavia whom we more commonly refer to as "Trouble". And she is trouble.
Just yesterday I caught her sliding down the banister, hiding in the laundry hamper, swinging from the broomstick angel, dipping her paws into the fish tank, and swan diving from the table directly on top of an unsuspecting Emma, and all this within the space of 10 minutes - swear to God.
And she's driving us all nuts. Even poor KC who came into my bedroom yesterday morning, complaining that Octavia had woken her up by repeatedly nudging against her face with her paws in a desperate attempt to play at almost 5 in the morning.
Still it's hard not to love the little ball of fluff, even despite the fact that she thinks she's a press on the window Garfield attachment whenever I forget and leave the front screen door open. And even harder still when she gets tired of being such a pain in the ass and crawls into your lap for a cuddle, where she promptly falls asleep and appears almost angelic, except for the fact that you know better having seen her in action.
But it wouldn't be home without her now. And I think even Emma would agree.
Curses!
Lost an entire post thanks to Blogger borking out on me, and not feeling like taking time to rethink and repost it.
So until tomorrow bloggies and bloggets, goodbye and good night.
So until tomorrow bloggies and bloggets, goodbye and good night.
Attention K-Mart Shoppers, There Are Exactly 16 Shopping Days Left
I will be thirty in 16 days.
And it seems quite unbelievable to type that, as much as it is to say that. Because if anything, I hardly feel that I've aged much at all. I'm still the same wise ass kid with a good sense of humor, and a milk chocolate heart hidden beneath a hard candy coated outer shell. I'm still the same girl who can't tell a lie without giving herself away with a grin as wide as Montana. And I'm still the same Stacey, as stubborn as the day is long and mule-headed when I sink my teeth into a fight I believe is worth fighting. And I'm still the same young girl rescuing animals in need, venturing out into the night to watch the stars, and talking a mile a minute, even when there is no audience to hear.
There's a thousand stories I could tell, ranging from the dumbest things I've done, the saddest things that have happened and the proudest moments I have had. And I guess, what I've learned in these past soon to be thirty years, is that no matter what, you've just got to be who you are, because you know, there's no one quite like you.
And it seems quite unbelievable to type that, as much as it is to say that. Because if anything, I hardly feel that I've aged much at all. I'm still the same wise ass kid with a good sense of humor, and a milk chocolate heart hidden beneath a hard candy coated outer shell. I'm still the same girl who can't tell a lie without giving herself away with a grin as wide as Montana. And I'm still the same Stacey, as stubborn as the day is long and mule-headed when I sink my teeth into a fight I believe is worth fighting. And I'm still the same young girl rescuing animals in need, venturing out into the night to watch the stars, and talking a mile a minute, even when there is no audience to hear.
There's a thousand stories I could tell, ranging from the dumbest things I've done, the saddest things that have happened and the proudest moments I have had. And I guess, what I've learned in these past soon to be thirty years, is that no matter what, you've just got to be who you are, because you know, there's no one quite like you.
Steadfast
We had a chance, and we lost it. We had hope, and now those hopes are dashed. We had a vision of a better America, a fair America, but now that America is as lost as last nights dream.
We are a nation divided, a battleground both here and abroad. We are the unheard voices that cried for change, prayed for new guidance and woke to a morning that heralded defeat, stealing the victory we hoped to gain.
We are names that make up a nation, countless faces in a crowd. And we stood together daring to be counted, determined to plot a path for change, eager to see our much beloved country returned to her original state of glory, intent on taking back her integrity and her pride.
Wondering now as I do, what went wrong, and where, and why it is we’ve four more years of leadership by a man who has already proven that he cannot get the job done, dread pools in my stomach like lead crystals, sinking me to the depths of despair of what my country has done to itself.
And no country is a force unto itself. Something it seems Mr. Bush has forgotten, or at least chosen to ignore during his first term. And so I say to those Americans, feeling as I feel tonight, our quest is not over, but has only just begun. And let us not wallow in our own disappointment but continue to stand and be counted as voices that will not concede their right to be heard.
Mr. Kerry, the world is proud of your efforts.
And I for one still believe ...
We are a nation divided, a battleground both here and abroad. We are the unheard voices that cried for change, prayed for new guidance and woke to a morning that heralded defeat, stealing the victory we hoped to gain.
We are names that make up a nation, countless faces in a crowd. And we stood together daring to be counted, determined to plot a path for change, eager to see our much beloved country returned to her original state of glory, intent on taking back her integrity and her pride.
Wondering now as I do, what went wrong, and where, and why it is we’ve four more years of leadership by a man who has already proven that he cannot get the job done, dread pools in my stomach like lead crystals, sinking me to the depths of despair of what my country has done to itself.
And no country is a force unto itself. Something it seems Mr. Bush has forgotten, or at least chosen to ignore during his first term. And so I say to those Americans, feeling as I feel tonight, our quest is not over, but has only just begun. And let us not wallow in our own disappointment but continue to stand and be counted as voices that will not concede their right to be heard.
Mr. Kerry, the world is proud of your efforts.
And I for one still believe ...
Don't Give Up John Kerry ...
Until the very last vote is counted. Until the very last voice is heard. And because the idea of G.W. Bush in office for four more years scares me in ways that defy the written word. Don't give up, don't give in, the race isn't won, and this election isn't over.
John Kerry, I still believe.
John Kerry, I still believe.
Election Day
If ever there was a day that could change the course of history, then today is it. And I for one, will be making sure to get myself to my local polling place and cast my vote for our future, and what I hope will be our new President. And I suppose I'm also really looking forward to the end of all the political propaganda that has been infiltrating every media facet known to man these past six months. To not see a political advertisement on the tele will be like heaven.
Another long day scheduled at work today. I left quite a stack on my desk last night to go home on time. I did however manage to talk my boss into letting Toni and I take a comp day in the near future for having spent our entire day at work Saturday. And as it turns out, he was quite unhappy that Toni and I - both salary - were made to stay the entire time, while hourly's were let out to leave hours and hours before. Especially when he thought that we would have been out of there by noon. This of course prompting a rash of CDS's. Also known as Closed Door Syndrome.
Still I'm happy to at least be walking away with a comp day. Especially since I think I'm going to use it to leave a 1/2 day earlier for my vacation, and my drive to North Carolina. Besides, I'm not exactly looking forward to spending my entire birthday driving in a car. It's kind of hard to open presents that way ...
Another long day scheduled at work today. I left quite a stack on my desk last night to go home on time. I did however manage to talk my boss into letting Toni and I take a comp day in the near future for having spent our entire day at work Saturday. And as it turns out, he was quite unhappy that Toni and I - both salary - were made to stay the entire time, while hourly's were let out to leave hours and hours before. Especially when he thought that we would have been out of there by noon. This of course prompting a rash of CDS's. Also known as Closed Door Syndrome.
Still I'm happy to at least be walking away with a comp day. Especially since I think I'm going to use it to leave a 1/2 day earlier for my vacation, and my drive to North Carolina. Besides, I'm not exactly looking forward to spending my entire birthday driving in a car. It's kind of hard to open presents that way ...
Times, They Are a Changing
Woke up this morning thoroughly confused as to what time it could really be and wondered for a good half hour if maybe my alarm clock, the preview guide channel and the morning news had all managed to get the time wrong too. And as I came to realize in my ever infinite wisdom, I managed to set my clock back not once, but twice ... Which actually turned out well, considering I slept through the first hour of my alarm chiming off in fifteen minute intervals as I kept pressing the snooze button.
KC fell asleep exhausted last night, and didn't even give me a bit of trouble about heading straight to bed from getting home. I think the poor thing was plain tuckered out, and since Daddy Dearest didn't allow her to bring her candy home (for what dumb reason I don't know) I didn't have to deal with a massive sugar high. Though I do think it is a bit stupid of him to only allow her to eat her treats at his house, where she will surely gorge herself silly, knowing she cannot bring it home, the next time that she is there. Oh well, he's an ass and there's not much that is going to change that. I just wish his ass-ishness didn't also carry over to Christmas. There's no reason why she couldn't bring some of her gifts home to play with, while leaving some of them at his house as well. But like Halloween, that just doesn't happen. I guess I was just lucky when I was her age, my father at least understood that presents given to me, were my choice as to where to keep them.
In other news, my Mom sent me a cute email this morning. A bit of which - and I hope she won't mind - I want to share with you all this morning.
Went to a political rally Friday night-heard John Edwards, Mrs. Edwards and their daughter, Kate. Spoke with a bunch of college kids for Kerry-they are very optimistic about Tuesday. The rally was great except I thought my feet were going to fall off - stood for hours on a cement floor, but was only about 10 feet from the stage. Jon Bovi performed at the rally (an acoustic set) and let me just say, he can really sing, he looks great in Levi jeans (I could read the little tag on his backpocket-that's how close I was), he has absolutely beautiful teeth and a great smile.
The Jon Bovi reference gave me a bit of a giggle this morning, so much so in fact, that I almost don't have the heart to tell her that it's Jon Bon Jovi. Though I do quite agree with the Levi comment as well as the pearly whites ...
It is however time to motivate for work. To all of you in the great big blue out there, have a fantabulous day!
KC fell asleep exhausted last night, and didn't even give me a bit of trouble about heading straight to bed from getting home. I think the poor thing was plain tuckered out, and since Daddy Dearest didn't allow her to bring her candy home (for what dumb reason I don't know) I didn't have to deal with a massive sugar high. Though I do think it is a bit stupid of him to only allow her to eat her treats at his house, where she will surely gorge herself silly, knowing she cannot bring it home, the next time that she is there. Oh well, he's an ass and there's not much that is going to change that. I just wish his ass-ishness didn't also carry over to Christmas. There's no reason why she couldn't bring some of her gifts home to play with, while leaving some of them at his house as well. But like Halloween, that just doesn't happen. I guess I was just lucky when I was her age, my father at least understood that presents given to me, were my choice as to where to keep them.
In other news, my Mom sent me a cute email this morning. A bit of which - and I hope she won't mind - I want to share with you all this morning.
Went to a political rally Friday night-heard John Edwards, Mrs. Edwards and their daughter, Kate. Spoke with a bunch of college kids for Kerry-they are very optimistic about Tuesday. The rally was great except I thought my feet were going to fall off - stood for hours on a cement floor, but was only about 10 feet from the stage. Jon Bovi performed at the rally (an acoustic set) and let me just say, he can really sing, he looks great in Levi jeans (I could read the little tag on his backpocket-that's how close I was), he has absolutely beautiful teeth and a great smile.
The Jon Bovi reference gave me a bit of a giggle this morning, so much so in fact, that I almost don't have the heart to tell her that it's Jon Bon Jovi. Though I do quite agree with the Levi comment as well as the pearly whites ...
It is however time to motivate for work. To all of you in the great big blue out there, have a fantabulous day!
Happy Halloween
Okay. So I'm more than a little miffed right now considering that KC only got home a few moments ago from her I'll have her home early trick or treating outing with her father. Sarcasm not withstanding over his inappropriate misuse of the word early.
I didn't however lose my cool as I sat waiting on the couch, eyeing the clock every few minutes. Figuring as the seconds ticked away, that my compounding the situation wouldn't change the fact that it was already an hour past KC's bedtime. And bitch session, or no bitch session was going to change anything in that regard, though I'm sure I would have enjoyed throwing a few stinging barbs in his direction, out of KC's ear shot of course. (Sigh ... Acting like a grown up certainly sucks sometimes.)
I did however regret my earlier decision not to go next door to watch movies with my neighbors, one of which is very male, very single, and sleeps on the other side of my bedroom wall each and every night. And just because I know how these things work, I bet anything it would have been a scarey - I'm going to need you to hold me - sort of movie, to celebrate Halloween. In other words, my loss.
But since I'm home, I think I'll be somewhat productive, finishing the last bit of laundry before popping upstairs to bed for an early start tomorrow.
I didn't however lose my cool as I sat waiting on the couch, eyeing the clock every few minutes. Figuring as the seconds ticked away, that my compounding the situation wouldn't change the fact that it was already an hour past KC's bedtime. And bitch session, or no bitch session was going to change anything in that regard, though I'm sure I would have enjoyed throwing a few stinging barbs in his direction, out of KC's ear shot of course. (Sigh ... Acting like a grown up certainly sucks sometimes.)
I did however regret my earlier decision not to go next door to watch movies with my neighbors, one of which is very male, very single, and sleeps on the other side of my bedroom wall each and every night. And just because I know how these things work, I bet anything it would have been a scarey - I'm going to need you to hold me - sort of movie, to celebrate Halloween. In other words, my loss.
But since I'm home, I think I'll be somewhat productive, finishing the last bit of laundry before popping upstairs to bed for an early start tomorrow.
So Much For ...
Sleeping.
I'm tired, and yet I'm wide awake and watching What Not To Wear for the second time this evening. And it's not much of a surprise that it's no better the second time around as it was the first time around.
I did however take a midnight run to WalMart, and though normally against my better judgment to go anywhere near that evil place, I found myself there all the same. In a most disgusting fashion tonight, it came to my attention that Octavia appears to have tapeworms. And after brushing up on tapeworm information online, I can say with 100% certainty that she is indeed infected. Hence the trip to WalMart for the worm medicine.
Of course, I should have known that the one thing I was in need of, was going to be the one thing they didn't have. Which broke my heart considering I am completely grossed out by this latest turn of events and need to rectify this situation immediately!
But what really irritates me is that despite my having dropped a hundred dollars two weeks ago taking the little one to the vets - complete with stool sample - no one bothered to either check her for worms, or tell me she had them if they did, leaving me to wonder what the hell exactly I paid them for.
So I am to PetSmart in the morning, where according to their online site, I will be able to purchase the proper medication before calling the vet on Monday to give them a piece of my mind. And quite frankly, between vet bills, my rent getting jacked up, and working an extra 16 hours this week for free, I'm not what you would call happy with my present situation.
If only Calgon could make a difference ...
I'm tired, and yet I'm wide awake and watching What Not To Wear for the second time this evening. And it's not much of a surprise that it's no better the second time around as it was the first time around.
I did however take a midnight run to WalMart, and though normally against my better judgment to go anywhere near that evil place, I found myself there all the same. In a most disgusting fashion tonight, it came to my attention that Octavia appears to have tapeworms. And after brushing up on tapeworm information online, I can say with 100% certainty that she is indeed infected. Hence the trip to WalMart for the worm medicine.
Of course, I should have known that the one thing I was in need of, was going to be the one thing they didn't have. Which broke my heart considering I am completely grossed out by this latest turn of events and need to rectify this situation immediately!
But what really irritates me is that despite my having dropped a hundred dollars two weeks ago taking the little one to the vets - complete with stool sample - no one bothered to either check her for worms, or tell me she had them if they did, leaving me to wonder what the hell exactly I paid them for.
So I am to PetSmart in the morning, where according to their online site, I will be able to purchase the proper medication before calling the vet on Monday to give them a piece of my mind. And quite frankly, between vet bills, my rent getting jacked up, and working an extra 16 hours this week for free, I'm not what you would call happy with my present situation.
If only Calgon could make a difference ...
