Tales Of An Ordinary Girl

DELETING THIS BLOG

2007-04-03T11:47:00.000-05:00

Things are going well with my livejournal so I will be deleting this blog in the next couple of weeks.

Come see me there. Crystal's Graphics Journal

ON HIATUS

2006-12-27T12:45:00.000-05:00

This blog will be on hiatus for an undetermined amount of time. It may be forever, it may be 1 week.

You can see all my journaling & graphic display at my livejournal: http://crystalsc.livejournal.com

I've already posted my christmas pictures there. I hope you won't quit visiting me because I've moved there. I still love blogger but it's getting increasingly difficult to work with; it's always going down. To get the new, improved version you have to get a Google account which I don't want. Plus, I can just navigate around livejournal a lot faster (and I pay for lj). On Livejournal, all entries have "tags". If you want to skip my graphic design posts and only see journaling posts they all have the tag "life".

Hope to see you there!

Christmas Fun

2006-12-17T14:48:00.000-05:00

The other night we had the christmas party for my husband's company. It was a lot of fun. The only negative part was that I forgot to set our vcr and I missed The Office christmas special. DAMNIT!

The company gave away extremely nice door prizes of which we won 1. We got 3 gift certificates for "dinner and a movie"; a restaraunt, an ice cream parlor and a movie theater.

One of the door prizes was a gift basket from Bed, Bath & Beyond and the owners made all the men sing to their spouses. It was HILARIOUS. That was probably the one and only time my husband will sing to me. BTW, he didn't win that one.

We used the movie passes last night when we took a nephew to see Eragon. It was a good tween/teen/family movie. A pretty young stud in it. The movie felt a bit rushed and had some weak spots but overall, nice, easy entertainment.

Coming up this week I have secret santa and holiday lunch at work. Then of course it's christmas. So, if I don't get another chance to blog,

MERRY CHRISTMAS! I hope you all have a safe and wonderful holiday!

Best Weekend In A Long Time

2006-12-11T13:50:00.000-05:00

My sister came to stay with me this weekend. We had the best time just being together. Friday night we went to eat and just talked and talked. Saturday she ran errands with me and then we hit the mall. That night we picked up our brother and went to see Casino Royale and then Sunday she watched Buffy for me. (I say "for me" because I begged her).

Let me tell you how much I loved Casino Royale. THIS MOVIE KICKED ASS!! I'm soooooo ready to go see it again. I would post my whole review here but I don't like to place spoilers on here because there's no way to hide them. But suffice it to say I think this is THE best James Bond and J.B. movie EVER. No joking.

My sister brought her new pup, Max to stay as well. He's a yorkiepoo that only weighs 1.5 lb. and he was SO sweet. He was very well behaved too. He entertained himself with the toys for long periods of time. And he was very sweet and cuddly. He and my Lucy Lu hit it off immediately and played for hours. It was cool, because Lucy usually just ignores other dogs.

Nora and Max:

Check out these magnets I bought for myself!

And this card I got from one rockin' friend:

My dogs aren't spoiled at all:

What to do? What to do?

2006-12-08T11:04:00.000-05:00

I bumped up my Livejournal account to paid status today. I am just on there so much and I wanted the extra features that I figured, what the hell?

But now that I'm paying for it, I feel like I need to use it to the max. So, I'm thinking of blogging there instead of here now. I'm not sure. I like blogger for plain diary-type use and it's easier to personalize. But Livejournal offers more features and a better "community" atmosphere. People don't seem to use blogger much anymore.

I'm gonna have to think on it for awhile.

I listened to a morning radio show here in Greenville. I felt like I was cheating on my favorite dj (you know who you are!). It was a good show. But I'm more of a "grab that old, worn out pair of comfortable jeans" kinda gal. You know what I mean?

Because my favorite dj requested pictures. Here's me in a little photoshop play:

GO FROM THIS:

TO THIS:

AND THEN MAKE THESE:

Weekly TV Review

2006-12-02T11:11:00.000-05:00

Crystal’s TV Review
Vol. I, Issue I
Week of 11.27-12.3.06

For my first weekly tv review of my favorite shows, I wanted to make a dynamite post. Unfortunately, I've worked my ass off today and I'm exhausted so my comments are going to be brief for the most part. And obviously, some shows, while I love them dearly, just don’t inspire a lot of commenting. And my “reviews” are mostly lists of parts that made me laugh or didn’t. So don’t expect a NY Times style review.

Prison Break
What a great episode! Fast. Surprising. And what a cliffhanger! It was fantastic! I certainly wasn’t expecting it. Can’t say Sarah’s disguise is very disguise-y but hey, they want the viewer to know who she is. I was scared she was going to slit her wrists. I know that’s what the writers wanted you to think and it worked! I loved Sucre’s face when the guy handed him a parachute. Blonde guy is even creepier. I wouldn’t have thought it possible! A

Heroes
I like Heroes very much but I’ve always thought that the material isn’t extremely unique. Many many sci-fi shows and stories have had characters with these abilities and sentiments. But it’s okay because the show is still presented with just enough unique properties that it doesn’t come away looking like a rip-off. HOWEVER, this episode had Sylar’s speech about being “special”. It reeked of Voldemort’s in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. As soon as he started talking, I was thinking “Oh, that’s not good.” Bad move Heroes writers.
Also, I just wasn’t too impressed with the episode. It didn’t really offer any new information except how Sylar gets his powers. The thing that I’ve always loved about Heroes is that it keeps the story moving. Every episode it gives you something instead of dragging you along a la Lost. But last night’s episode wasn’t in that vein. Oh well. Even the best shows have their off-weeks, right? (Beer Bad anyone?) C

Gilmore Girls
“Wolfe Girl” – LOL! That was hilarious!
“Since when does a block of fermented cheese celebrate a wedding?” LOL
The whole midwife thing is hilarious.
For the first time, I felt bad for Luke. I was glad he finally put his foot down about his rights as a father.
Lorelei is obviously worried that people will judge her for marrying Christopher so soon after her break-up with Luke. She’s probably right too.
Doyle & Paris scorching the floorboards! LOL
“Suddenly I’m very nervous about my man-date with a farmer!” LOL B

Veronica Mars
Good episode. Loved the ending with Logan getting himself put into the jail cell. Mercer’s ass is grass! A university without a greek system? That would be so weird. I can’t say I like the protest girls. I think you defeat the purpose when you behave the way they do, which Veronica actually said in this episode. I felt so bad for Dean Cyrus. I like him. Was he dead at the end or just beat up and knocked out? I couldn’t tell. Veronica’s buddy was particularly funny in this episode which was needed to offset the heavy second half. I love watching Kristen Bell act. B

Boston Legal
Damn I love Alan Shore. He always gives the best speeches. But this exchange was heavenly:
Espenson: “What have we got now?”
Shore: “One of my overly-long closing arguments, but they’ve been known to work in the past.”
I love how everyone else sits around and whines, “What are we gonna do about this situation? Whadda we gonna dooooo?” And then Alan just walks in and DOES IT. Espenson “Hands” was great as usual. It’s nice to see his character grow. I’ve always loved the relationship between Denny and Alan so it was awesome to hear Denny say that he thought it was crazy for fidelity to be limited to intimate relationships. Alan’s profession of love was wonderful. It gave me warm fuzzies. B

Bones
The case was decent. But as far as character development: I’m tired of Brennan being “put into danger” every other episode so we can see how much Booth cares for her. And wasn’t it just last week that Brennan and Hodgins were buried alive and they were in traumatic shock? That wasn’t something you just move past. Hodgins was seriously shook up. He wouldn’t just be fine by the next episode. D

House
Usually shows take an asshole character and soften them up as time goes on. Yet House gets more assholey. I can’t believe Wilson has never hasn’t held him down and beat the snot out of him. Poor Cuddy. House was just cruel to her. I used to like Cameron. I’m very close to hating her now. She’s SO judgemental and nosy. B

My Name Is Earl
Randy preparing for Catalina was so sweet. The gay guy is always fun.
Randy spontaneously shouting “Ricolla!” was funny. Other than that though, this episode left me a little cold. C

The Office
Karen: "Jesus"Michael: "Apollo Creed" LOLDwight bending over with the money in his pocket was hilarious. Pam watching Jim & Karen Prison Mike "I've never been caught"Jim "Well, you're in prison, but okay." LOLMichael locking them in the room & pouting. LOL And the bitch mother shushing them for wanting out because she had her baby at work! Jim setting up Pam was funny. It seems a weird line for them. Will they be able to just joke around like they did before with Karen in the picture? The ending with Andy singing to Pam was funny because I love the look on Jim's face but I couldn't understand a word that Andy sang. B

Scrubs
The show I’m most loyal too, started back last night for it’s possibly last season. I have watched this show faithfully since the pilot episode. Last night made me laugh but it didn’t feel like classic Scrubs to me. Of course, neither did the beginning of season 5 and I think it turned out to be possibly the best season. I miss JD’s old look with the swept back hair. Pregnant Carla dancing against Dr. Kelso was funny (and I’ve always loved Bye Bye Bye).
I loved the touch of JD wearing a scarf in Vegas. That was cute.
The line “A Joe Piscapo look a-like contest?” cracked me up.
“Hardly seems like a punishment for the kid from Kenya.” LOL
The charades part was funny.
Overall though, this ep wasn’t very good to me. But it has to tie up loose ends. It’ll get better I know. D

Grey's Anatomy
This is another show that I have watched since the pilot. I ADORED it the first season but since then my love has waned quite a bit. I still think it’s a great show but it doesn’t enrapture me like it did. Thanksgiving night I missed it for the first time. I had forgotten it would be on during the holiday. That said, I have no idea what happened between Burke and Yang or how it went down. But I can tell that everyone knows.
George’s Dad made me cry. Izzy was right when she said “Her patient lives so she gets to scrub in.”
I can understand why Meredith feels the way she does about her half sister and stepmom. Her Dad made the choice to keep her away. But I do wish she’d try to let them in. (Every time I look at her stepmom though, I think of the sex scene in St. Elmo’s Fire). Izzy telling Sloan that she’s not his coffee girl – yay! I was disappointed she did it the second time though.
Man, Bailey was some kind of pissed. At first I thought it was just too much but then her explanation near the end of having her talent questioned made me understand her a lot more.
The twin patient saying “Can you make sure his ass is bigger than mine?” made me laugh.
The blonde doctor that was such a bitch (saying George was a pain in the ass – hello! That’s his dad!), she makes me think that that must’ve been what Ellis was like. Derrick and Sloan laughed together! That was a cool moment.
Chief’s speech to Bailey was beautiful. The first beautiful one he’s had in a very long time. B

Men In Trees
Nice beginning. I like the peaks at life in NY. Liza squealing she was engaged and thrusting her finger into Marin’s face was funny. And may I just say how much I love Anne Heche’s acting? It’s so REAL to me. Very real reactions.
Mai: “I got no china. Ironic, huh?” lol
Jerome cracked me up as always with his comment about the other guys practically humping him. Patrick phoning Marin for the radio show was too cute! I love that Jane is still calling Sam “Plow Guy”. Very cute. But they’ll need to stop that soon or it will get too old. McDreamy & McSteamy on Grey’s already gets on my nerves. When they pointed out bathrobe lady in the diner I cracked up. Jane’s comment about bochalism (sp?) was funny too.
Okay. Let’s be honest. Sometimes Jack can be a real a-hole but then he has those redeeming moments where he REALLY redeems himself. And when he drunkenly called Marin and said “I think I’m falling in love with you.” SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!” It was insane how happy that made me. I got butterflies in my tummy! But I knew as soon as he said that the ex would be back. So I hated having seen that. I do worry that the relationship has been a bit rushed between Jack and Marin. I mean, it’s only the 10th episode and they already think they are in love? Will the show remain exciting if these two hook up? Will Marin loose the focus of self-reflection which is supposed to be the premise of the show? So many questions.
Ben and Theresa just don’t do anything for me. I don’t feel the chemistry. I like Sarah and Ben much better. I miss Sarah. She’s listed as a regular cast member. I wonder what happened to her.
And Annie.
Now I’ve saved the Annie talk until last because it was by far, the most important issue in the episode. Let me tell you how horrible I felt for Annie. VERY. I understood her sadness over not seeing her family at the holidays. I thought it was awfully rude of Buzz to wait until the last minute to tell her he couldn’t take her and, my gosh, but that dinner scene was sooooo uncomfortable. For every girl who has every dated a guy who’s family didn’t make you feel welcomed (like me!), you FELT that scene. When they made her hold the camera and didn’t give her the slice of pie, I wanted to smack them all. But it felt so good to see Annie getting some backbone. I liked the line “I’m always excited for you Patrick.” Because she is. She’s always been supportive of him. I’d like to see how Patrick reacts to this tumultuous time with Annie. How he reacts will be an indication of how he truly feels for her. He says he loves her but does he really know? She’s his first girlfriend right? A

Smallville
Repeat episode so I won't fully review it, but I will say that the special effects on this show are why I keep coming back. Plus Clark making a joke was nice. That's a rarity.

Supernatural
Repeat episode so I won't fully review it. But seriously, Dean should just sleep with me now. He's so wonderfully funny, pissed and tortured all in one in this episode. And the line when he walks up to Sam and the Bearded Lady staring at each other and says, "Did you get her number?" KILLS me EVERY.TIME.

Brandi Carlile and Jem

2006-12-01T16:54:00.000-05:00

Took advantage of the boss' absence this afternoon. I thought Michaela might to see the Brandi Carlile icons I made. Also, a trip down memory lane for all the other 80's kids out there with Jem & The Holograms (& Misfits).

A Day In The Life...of Crystal

2006-11-27T15:03:00.000-05:00

My Top 5 Favorite Beatles Songs

5. Eleanor Rigby
4. A Day In The Life
3. In My Life
2. Come Together
1. While My Guitar Gently Weeps

Yesterday we had a department meeting, the first since I've joined the team. Apparantely the department head has been promoted to a new position and will be moving over to the corporate office. They are bumping up another guy in our department to head of the table. Not long after the meeting, I was in my boss' office as he was showing me how to complete a worksheet in the computer and new head guy calls and asks to see me when available. My boss irritatingly rolled his eyes and said, "See! Now you're going to be in peak command." I thought it was kinda cute. He doesn't want to share me. I understand this of course. He is told that they are hiring me as his assistant but if everyone else keeps asking me to take care of tasks for them, then when will I be able to help him?

I forgot to get my aspirin today and my claritan. I already have a headache and it's 8:21 am. Uh oh.

I watch Prison Break because it's the one of the two shows that Hubby doesn't like to miss (the other one is House). But I don't usually consider Prison Break as one of my "won't miss" shows. Well, last night's episode was fantastic, let me say that! Great cliffhanger if ever there was one!

I have posted the first challenge for my Men In Trees icon challenge community. Please join so you can vote on icons! And spread the word. I'll love you forever and forever!
Btw, the show airs Thursday night at 10pm EST on ABC, right after Grey's Anatomy. You should check it out if you haven't already. It's a fun hour of tv.

I spoke to my sister for over 30 minutes last night. It's crazy how fast time flies. She is living on her own for the first time, renting a house with another girl. It brought back so many memories. She's struggling with roomate issues (i.e. getting yelled at for not washing dishes, etc...) I told her that is all part of learning to live with someone who grew up in a different style household. I also said that it gets easier as time goes by and not to worry. All she can do is try her best to be mindful and respectful of the other person's wishes and to have a calm, rational discussion about it with the girl if at all possible. It's best to get all those cards out on the table as soon as possible. I love feeling like I can help my sister out with some stuff because I have been there. At the same time, I'm worried that I'll come off as too preachy to her.

I do wish she felt more of a connection to family. It's probably not her fault. She didn't grow up with any except her mom and our brother. I, nor our older brother, was around her much because of the situation with her mom. So, she's never really had time for a bond to form although I think we've been getting closer over the last few years. But on Thanksgiving I called her and left her a message to invite her to come over and see me, our older brother and his son (her nephew). Last night she tells me that she went to a friends house. She didn't even go see her Mom and our younger brother. That saddens me. I know she's 18 and spending time with your friends is extremely important to you at that time, it was to me, but I never gave up my family at the holidays.

Turkey Day Fast Approaching

2006-11-21T14:15:00.000-05:00

I have created a livejournal community for icon challenges of the tv show Men In Trees. I'm so in love with this show. If you know anyone who enjoys icon making or the show, please send them over. Even if you're not an icon maker, join up so you can vote on all the pretties! Challenges will begin when we have 10 members or next Monday, whichever comes first. (click the pic to visit the site)

BTW, someone named Olivia commented on this blog and said she wanted to link it. I have no easy way of telling where you left the comment to respond to it. Please comment back on this post and let me know where you want to link it to. I'd greatly appreciate it.

I'm so looking forward to Thanksgiving holiday. I didn't realize how much I missed my family until I began thinking about going down there this weekend. We'll probably stay Thursday and Friday night. I might be ready to come home Friday evening but Hubby might not, so we'll see.

The new job is going well. A little slow. The boss is so busy he doesn't have much time to train me, so I've had days (like today) where I have done nothing but play on the internet. I'm trying not to get used to it though.

If I don't get a chance to post again before Thanksgiving, Happy Thanksgiving to you!!

I am so tired

2006-11-18T21:09:00.000-05:00

that I can feel it in my eyes. I woke up this morning and started going and didn't sit down until 7:30 pm tonight so I'm exhausted.

We have tons of HUGE trees here at my house. The neighor whose yard connects to ours in the back built an apartment RIGHT ON the property line. I'm not exaggerating it really is exactly on the property line. Well, the humongous trees disperse tons of leaves which must be gathered up because there's just too many of them and I hate for them to stay up against the house holding water.

We have noticed that many people burn their leaves here. So, we start burning our leaves. I've pulled the hose out and wet the ground all around the circle of fire and my husband is standing there watching it with a shovel, a rake and the hose in case he needs it while I am raking up more leaves to add to the pile. (At the same time another neighbor across the street in the front of our house was burning too). Well, I notice the lady whose backyard connects to ours and who so inconsiderately built an apartment RIGHT ON the property line is standing outside talking on the telephone and complaining about me and my husband and our burning. Suddenly she yells at me (i've never spoken to her before), "You've got those leaves burning and my apartment is right there! Don't you think that's a little bit dangerous? It would only take 1 leaf blowing over into my apartment and it'd be on fire!" Now when someone is just outright nasty to me I tend to, well turn into a bitch. I snap. So I very waspishly said back, "Actually no, I don't. My husband is watching it and we have a hose ready. I don't particularly like that you built your apartment right on the property line but there's not much I can do about that."

Not too long after that, the fire department showed up. They were really nice and told us we were doing everything correctly but suggested that next time we just give them a call beforehand to let them know we will be burning and perhaps burn smaller piles to keep the smoke down. I would love to have heard what they said to my neighbor.

I was so pissed though at the neighbor. Not that she called the fire department but that she spoke so nastily and didn't speak to me first. If she had just come up to me and said, "You know I'm really uncomfortable with you burning here and would really appreciate it if you didn't." Perhaps we would have done it in a different location, but she didn't even give us that opportunity. When did people just stop talking to others and go straight to authority?

Some goings on

2006-11-13T15:51:00.000-05:00

I haven't watched any Buffy or Angel in 2 1/2 months. I'm starting to feel the effects of this.

MUST. WATCH. SOON.

I went to Kmart today to look for a spice rack and a broom rack. Of course, they didn't have them. They never seem to have what I'm looking for. *aggravated* But I did find this picture on clearance for $5.00 And while I generally don't like pictures of flowers, I loved the colors in this one. Pink, Orange and Gold. Of course, you can't really see it that well because I had to take the photo with my crappy cell phone which makes all photos look radioactive. But here 'tis:

Not bad for $5.00, huh?

I bit my fingernails. I feel so ashamed. I went months with beautiful long nails. I worked in the attic two weekends ago and broke every one. Then I began biting them again. It's like a compulsion. It's awful.

Hubby and I spent the weekend buying and installing shelving in our teeny tiny kitchen. It's so organized - it's FABULOUS!! Now, if I can only make him not mess it up.

Some times I wonder if my husband doesn't secretly like for me to yell at him. He will do things he KNOWS pisses me off. He must like to hear me bitch.

I discovered there is a Greenville "Browncoats" chapter. Last week they were having a screening of Serenity - admission going to Joss Whedon's charity of choice "Equality Now". I was looking forward to going and meeting some people and completely forgot. I was so bummed. Everyone at my new job is nice but no one is near my age and so there really isn't any potential here for friendships. I hope I can attend the next Browncoat get-together.

I'm looking forward to watching Heroes tonight. I'm pleased with how this show is developing. They aren't dragging it out - they keep it moving and I appreciate that. Unlike Lost which is still saying the same crap in SEASON 3!! I'm so done with that show. My new favorite show, Men In Trees, is now moving to Thursday. That's 7 out of 10 shows that I watch will be on on Thursdays. Isn't that crazy? Other upcoming TV moments of interest this week: 1.Jim's return on The Office. I'm so psyched. I think they are going to do one of two options A. Jim and Pam start dating and new girl pines for Jim or B. Jim and New Girl start dating and Pam pines for Jim. 2.Supernatural - this show is ALWAYS good and Dean is so fucking hot. He should so do me.

I've had some crazy ass dreams this weekend. One had my getting my foot ambutated by Dr. Christian Bale. WEIRD!!

Some livejournal awards I've won recently for icon entries:

The Week In Review 11.3.06

2006-11-04T12:10:00.000-05:00

So my first week of my new job as passed. I think it went very well. My boss told me he thought so too so that was nice. I didn't really learn too much about what I will actually be doing on a regular basis. Walt, my boss, likes to take things in baby steps I've noticed. So much of my week was meeting people and learning the overall operation of the company. I think I'll have a lot of down time next week too because Walt is going to be in a lot of meetings and then traveling. I hope I won't be too bored.

I went shoe shopping and some of my friends will be highly proud of me. I bought 3 pairs of high heels and 1 pair of flats. All of which you'll see throughout this post. I love Payless. I had to have the flats to keep at my desk because if you walk out into the plant you're not allowed to have heels on. But they require you to dress up and I can't always wear flats with a skirt or dressy clothes.

Today I'm going to go up in the attic in search of my Ed Grimly lunchbox and thermos because I hate taking my lunch in a plastic bag. Also I'm going to try and decide which pictures I want to take to work to decorate my space. I would like to take my Singing In The Rain picture that I used at Dietary but this office has really high ceilings - 12' and the wall space is just huge. So the SITR picture will just look too tiny. :( I've got a bit of time to decide. I don't want to actually take the pictures until I get my new furniture and the office is rearranged and that'll probably be a couple of weeks.

Yesterday I had to work with this young guy who has been doing a certain task for my boss which I will now be doing so he was training me on how to. Well, he didn't hold back on his opinions of people. He told me that my suite mate was "lazy" and "a piece of work". I knew that she talked a lot and from everything she said I thought, "Man she sure knows a lot of sick people." Well, from what this guy said, she's a drama queen. I was like, "Oh goody." {sarcasm!} In one of her redneck tales the other day she used the "N" word which I am totally NOT cool with. I didn't say anything then but if it continues I sure will.

I now have a fine collection of spices and herbs. I bought a lot and little jars. This morning I poured them into the jars and labeled them. My hands smell like nutmeg. :) So far, from my Rachel Ray cookbook, I've made Israeli Spice Chicken, Honey Mustard Barbequed Chicken, and Maple Mustard Pork Chops. I've loved them all but hubby only liked the spicy one. He doesn't like sauces that have a sweet taste to them. If we ever agreed on a food dish, I would keel over from shock!

New Job

2006-10-30T20:27:00.000-05:00

I started my job today. It went well. Turns out I don't have my own office, I share one with another woman. It will take me awhile to figure out if I like her or not. She told me right away that she is a redneck and that she loves John Deere. I was like, "Oooooooookay." But she'll probably think the same thing when she sees my Buffy pictures, so to each his own. As long as she isn't rude in my personal space or bitchy, we'll be fine. The bosses took me to lunch which was nice but a bit awkward. The tour of the plant was more interesting than I expected. It's amazing the speed at which the weaving machines weave. And it boggles the mind to think of how much those machines cost. And in a way, the weaving is beautiful. Overall, I'm very happy. Everyone was very nice and welcoming and I think I'll have a great experience here.

And it's only Thursday

2006-10-26T09:16:00.000-05:00

bought 5 pair of slacks and 2 sweaters for new job
had physical for new job which made me fully feel my looming 30
been sick with a sinus infection and not sleeping well
treated myself to The Little Mermaid platinum edition and enjoying watching it
felt old realizing The Little Mermaid is 17 years old
got my oil changed in my car and paid too much for a 10 min. service
ate horribly - must get back to fruits and veggies
watch too much tv and spent too much time on pc

I Got The Job

2006-10-20T18:41:00.000-05:00

that I wanted. I am very pleased. It's going to be a major learning experience but it seems like a good company. I'll be making $5,000 a year more than I was in Columbia and that makes me a very happy camper. Hubby & I were supposed to go out tonight to celebrate but of course he has his first emergency at work. :( I don't start until the 30th. I wish it was a bit sooner. Once I know I'm going to be doing something, I like to jump right in. I will continue to work at the temporary job for the next week.

What I've Been Up To

2006-10-15T22:24:00.000-05:00

So this job has asked me to think long term. They want to start training me on my own account (there's another temp that has been there 3 weeks and they haven't given her one yet). So it felt nice to hear that they think I'm a good worker. Especially after working at Dietary for 6 years where I felt so unvalued and uninspired. The supervisor and I had a heart to heart and she was very frank with me which I appreciated. I told her, "To be honest with you, if I am going to think long term I'd like to know more about the company and what it offers it's employees." I made it clear to her that I didn't want to overstep my bounds since I still work for the staffing agency. I told her what my long term goals are (graphic design) and what I need $ wise. I also told her I was not happy sitting next to the girl she wanted me to sit next to and she let me sit at another desk. It still has it's problems, but at least I don't have to sit next the snotty slut.

Yesterday Hubby & I took the dogs to a park in Traveler's Rest (about a 30 minute drive). We just wanted to walk the nature trail and enjoy the woods. The nature trail was up a mountain and was very tricky terrain with tree roots every step of the way. My right calve has been sore today. We didn't know that there was going to be a fall festival going on at the park. But it was nice to hear the live bluegrass music while hiking at checking out the local vendors. Every kid wanted to pet our dogs which Abby was not happy about. Overall, it was a lot of fun though. Today I raked the front yard and edged around the stepping stones in our yard. The weekends go by too fast.

On the nature trail there was a small waterfall that was marked with a sign that read:

Pictures of the festival:

I have been trying, in my spare time, to enter icon challenges at Livejournal. Here's some icons I have made for them:

My lineup is:
Monday: Prison Break, Heroes
Tuesday: House, Boston Legal (Gilmore Girls and Veronica Mars when House is a repeat)
Wednesday: Bones, Lost
Thursday: (this one is tricky because I have to tape a few)My Name Is Earl, The Office, Grey's Anatomy, Smallville, Supernatural (come January will add Scrubs)
Friday: Men In Trees (I LOVE this show. It's just FUN.)
Saturday:none
Sunday: maybe Cold Case but that's not a must-see

1st Day On The Job

2006-10-10T21:46:00.000-05:00

I started this position today. It was okay. I'm a little torn about whether I like it or not. It's gonna take me awhile.
The work I would be doing is not exactly what I was hoping to get. It's customer service, order entry, follow-up - middle man type stuff which to me, isn't challenging or interesting. I was really hoping to be in a creative sort of position where I can learn or have fun at the same time. BUT there is a formatting department in this company so perhaps I could eventually move there. Everyone was really nice to me except the girl that I will have to sit directly next to. Go figure. Maybe she was just having a bad day though. I immediately got the snobby vibe from her though.
I was shocked after having worked at "The Barn" that not only was there a break room but a HUGE break room which included free popcorn and a fountain soda machine. Best part: lounge area with leather sofas, huge LCD flat panel tv (which was airing Animal Planet) and an X-box. There was a basketball goal outside too which I'm told the guys sometimes use at lunch. The girl's bathroom was painted pepto-pink with some really cool home-made art. So that was cooky fun.
From all of that I thought it would be a bit more laid back but it wasn't. There was little to no laughter heard throughout the day. And no music :(

Now for the superficial. I know this sounds petty of me but it's me and I can't help it. I almost squealed for joy when I discovered they can wear jeans and t-shirts. Seeing as how that's all I wore at The Barn for 6 years it's pretty much all I have left in my wardrobe. Plus it's just comfortable. I work better comfortable.
Which leads me to my EXTREMELY superficial part. Well, it's not to me but it might sound like it to someone else.
The cubicles are tiny. I mean TINY. My work station is probably about 3.5 ft. long and there are girls on either side of me. Plus a constant flow of traffic behind me. Plus being a print shop there are just piles and piles of papers everywhere. It's very messy looking. I have mild claustraphobia. I don't get sweaty but I do feel extremely anxious when I have piles of boxes or papers around me plus people pressing in on me from all sides. I hope I can deal with that.

I feel so stressed about trying to decide whether I like it or not. And I don't know why I feel that way. I have no other options on the table right now so I really just need to do it.

They use mac's in this office which I've never used so that's something I'll get to learn.

I had gotten entirely too spoiled being home for a month.

Bringing Some Money Home

2006-10-09T14:52:00.000-05:00

I start a temp to hire position in the morning. It's a little less than I was hoping to be making but it's in a company that interests me. Cox Custom Media - they handle creation of newsletters and other direct mail/advertising needs of businesses.
The agency told me there is a lot of potential for promotion and growth here so that's good. If I make it to permanent placement there would be a pay raise and I need that. And at least this keeps me from having to get a job in retail which I didn't want.

Here I Am

2006-10-04T18:41:00.000-05:00

Still trying to find a job. A staffing agency told me today they have a good position they are going to submit my resume for. They've told me that before though and nothing happened so my expectations aren't too high.
I'm in that middle state of experience. I'm overqualified for administrative assistant positions - I've been too specialized in advertising but I'm underqualified for graphic designer or marketing positions meaning I don't have a degree with my name on it. It's all very frustrating.
I did have an interview on Friday that went well. At least, I thought it went well at first, but the more I think about it the more doubtful I become. I felt very at ease and seemed to have a good rapport with the men. But they have left me a little confused. Several comments they made left me feeling convinced I had won them over but then other comments threw me off of that theory. They said, "You should read up on our products and where our company is going." Good sign. They want me to stay up-to-date with the company." "We'll let you know one way or the other." Eh. So that makes it sound like I'm definately not a shoe-in. I think I want this job though so, keep your fingers crossed.

What I did last night:
Cat On A Hot Tin Roof - Paul Newman & Elizabeth Taylor

Iconess

2006-09-29T22:39:00.000-05:00

Haven't done this in awhile:

Buffy/Angel:

Lucy

BtVS

AtS

David Boreanaz

Gene Kelly

Award

Next Step

2006-09-29T15:10:00.000-05:00

Had an interview today. It went pretty well. Now is the dreaded wait. I hate this part.

Pimpage

2006-09-24T15:27:00.000-05:00

I've got my cafepress store open. It's not fully loaded or customized yet. I only have my Ariana-"Mutt" designs up. I will be adding Boston Terrier & Chihuahua designs. Plus for the "Cause" section there will be designs promoting 'anti-litter' 'historic preservation' and other causes I feel passionate about. All of these will feature my own photography.

I'll let you know when it's completed so you can let all your friends and family know!

Paws & Causes

Nostalgia

2006-09-23T11:07:00.000-05:00

I miss this style of telephone.

They were so comfortable to use. Easy to balance on your shoulder.

Premiere Recap

2006-09-22T09:42:00.000-05:00

Pure "The Office" Love:
Oh my gosh! But that kiss will go down in History!! I was laughing my ass off! What killed me the most was how Pam couldn't take her eyes off of them. While others were looking away she was riveted. lol And Jim's face when the new guy freaked out over the calculator in jello! That was perfect. I love how you get the idea that the camera man is on Jim's side.

And when they were checking out gay porn and Dwights says, "Damn it! Pop ups!" lol

It's so funny how even though Michael is just the worst sometimes you feel bad for him when someone puts him in his place. When Oscar yelled at him, I felt bad for him. Isn't that crazy? He deserved everything Oscar said to him. I've always loved Oscar. Him and Stanley are two of my favorites.

One thing I never understood is Ryan is supposed to be one of the main characters - I think he's listed in the credits as a regular yet he's probably the least shown or interesting character.

And what was up with Meredith putting sanitizer on her tongue?

I so wanted to beat the shit out of Angela.

I also watched the season 3 premiere of Grey's Anatomy last night which I did not realize premiered until after I had posted yesterday. It was good. It's going to take me awhile to get back in sync with these characters. They are so emotionally draining and I've already distanced myself from that. I found it odd that Burke was there until the end. But Katherine Hiegel was brilliant in her heartbreak. The flashbacks were nice and as usual I like Addison more than Meredith. Not only do I think she's prettier/sexier but I think she is a far superior actress. I hated the quarantine. Every show has pulled that. The flashbacks of course though made me think of my favorite Firefly episode "Out of Gas" which handle flashbacks better than any other show ever. What I didn't understand from Grey's is: Was Izzy's significant because it included Alex or the fact that she was told she wouldn't make it as a surgeon?

How Fing Excited Am I

2006-09-21T11:13:00.000-05:00

for the season 3 premiere of The Office tonight??

I told my husband the other night while looking over the fall tv schedule, "We have a big problem on Thursday nights" He laughed at me and said, "It's just tv." But it's GOOD tv.
The Office, Grey's Anatomy, Smallville and Supernatural, Survivor & My Name Is Earl are all on Thursdays! Earl I can watch in reruns so that doesn't bother me. The Office I LOVE so I don't want to miss that and the others are all series shows (meaning each ep lends to a season long arc). I need Tivo!!

C'Mon! Let Jim get him some!

Steve Irwin

2006-09-20T09:16:00.000-05:00

I watched his memorial service last night and of course, cried my eyes out. I have felt sad ever since.

I remember the first time I saw him. I said, "This guy is insane!" but he made me laugh and I thought that was great. Over time I really came to love him because he not only loved the animals so passionately but you could tell he loved people the same way. He was never rude or unkind to anyone. He was genuinely a friend to everyone he met. Do you realize how rare that is in a human being? He was a pure soul.

He died on my birthday. I spent the whole day feeling slightly numb. Pretty remarkable for a zookeeper that I never met that lived on the other side of the world. His impact on the world is amazing. I don't think any other animal rights/conservationist has ever had that impact. His Dad said something last night that touched me deeply. He said, "Don't grieve for Steve. He's at peace. But I do want you to grieve for the animals because they lost a friend." You just KNOW that is true. It almost seems as the animals themselves are crying.

A New Beginning

2006-09-18T21:36:00.000-05:00

I'm making a lifestyle change. There I said it. Now that I have vocalized it that means it's real, right? I guess I better stick to it now.

I'm overweight. Very overweight and I feel crappy. Not all the time. But sometimes. And I don't want to run into people from my past because I don't want them to know how much weight I've gained. I shouldn't care. But I do. But what concerns me more is how sluggish I feel. Health complications. Lowered sex drive. All those things lead back to weight issues.

Am I an overeater by addiction? I'm not sure. I do eat to comfort but I don't think I do it consciously. I eat from boredom, that's for sure. But I just love junk. The sweeter the better in most cases. And fried foods? Most are splendid.

But I've recently moved to a new city. Three weeks ago to be exact. And I have decided to make this moderately significant moment in my life monumental. I will take this opportunity to make a new beginning - a lifestyle change. For the 3 weeks I've been here, I've been getting up every morning with my husband and walking/jogging for at least 30 minutes (sometimes an hour). We've been doing this at least 5 times a week. I can't jog the whole time yet. So we briskly walk then jog a bit, walk, jog, etc... Some days I'm ready to go, others I have to drag myself out of bed but for the most part I've noticed a great change in myself. I truly do feel more alert during the day. Not to mention that I feel good emotionally because I know I did it.

I've been trying to eat a bit better too. I'm trying to cut out fried foods (skip the french fries at McDonalds) and eat at least 1 fresh item a day be it a grapefruit or some broccoli. I do however, refuse to give up my Diet Mt. Dews. A woman must have some vice! For sweets, I've been making sure to buy the "light" varieties of my favorite ice creams and such. But you know what I've found? The better I eat - the less I want the sweets! It's amazing. I feel like I've just discovered an unknown secret.

Best of all, yesterday I grudgingly pulled a pair of jeans out of my drawer. I say grudgingly because this is my "back up" pair. It's the pair of jeans that I wear only when all the others are dirty. These jeans are usually a bit tight and after squeezing into them I do a few pleas to make them loosen up. However, yesterday I slipped them on with ease. And while they were by no means loose on me, they were quite comfortable and easy to snap close. I stood and looked at myself in the mirror.

The exercising isn't the only change I'm making in my lifestyle. I've always dedicated myself to being a cleaner person (for instance, making a routine of cleaning my car so my allergies won't suffer from all the dog dander). Hubby & I have agreed to devote time every day also to our business we hope to open and to allowing time for our home renovation on the weekends (he has agreed to work on his organization and time management skills to help us achieve these goals). And more.

I'm not sure how all of this will be affected once I find a job (a task that has been unsuccessful so far). I might not be able to exercise in the morning due to lack of time but vow to still keep it in my day.

All in all. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed right now. But other than worrying over finding a job, pretty darn good. Get prepared to meet the new Crystal.

Wanna be my sugardaddy?

2006-09-15T18:04:00.000-05:00

Perhaps today isn't the best day to be blogging. I feel rather surly right now. But then again, maybe it is because it seems I "open up" more when I am cranky.

So I've been in Greenville for 3 weeks now and starting to feel the stress of not having found a job. I've been on 2 interviews and have sent out dozens of resumes but no offers still. I really really really want the graphic designer position at the County Library but it's a long shot without my having a degree. Ask me how unhelpful the staffing agencies have been. Go ahead, ask. Sure, I'll tell you. The first one I went to, which is supposedly the largest in Greenville said they should have no trouble placing me somewhere. (I went to their office as soon as I came here). I phoned and left messages. No one returned my calls. I emailed. No one returned my emails. Finally they call me yesterday and have a cold call sales temp assignment for me which is something they told me about when I came in AND which I told them I wasn't interested in. I'm not sales girl. The second agency told me as soon as I emailed my resume that they didn't have anything right now. After 2 weeks they called and said they had an opportunity. I went to their office and spent 3 hours taking tests. I did go on an interview for a decent position they had for me. That was Monday. No one from their office phoned or emailed me to follow up to ask me how it went. Finally I called today. The company wants to interview more people. The lady thinks I'm overqualified and would be bored. I probably would but it was good money. Another week and I might have to get a retail job until I find something better. I just have to get some money coming in. Why can't I be rich?

To Ashley

2006-09-12T11:05:00.000-05:00

http://www.zshare.net/download/video1-mswmm-jpm.html

So today is September 11th

2006-09-11T08:44:00.000-05:00

I hadn't planned on making any kind of comment about the terrorist attack today. Frankly, I think there's been TOO much of it on the news the last several days. It's not that I don't think the day should be remembered. I just don't think you have to bash people over the head to make them do so. It was such a shocking, horrific day that I don't think any adult will ever forget it. I can't believe it's already been 5 years. That also means it's almost 5 years since my dogs Geri and Whiskers were killed (which took place 3 weeks after 9-11). Is it horrible of me that that makes me sadder? They were my babies and I loved them dearly - rarely went anywhere without them. Each had their own wonderful quirks. As I sit here now, they smile down at me from pictured urns on top of my computer armoire. I just couldn't bear to bury them. My father's ashes also resides there. We didn't have the money to bury him. But I don't mind cremation. Actually it is my wish to be cremated after I die. I don't want a grave that people feel obligated to maintain. And I certainly don't want one that just becomes overgrown with weeds after the loved ones who actually knew me are gone. But I've been thinking a lot lately about the cremation ashes. What's going to happen to my dad's ashes when I'm gone? No one else is going to have that sentimental attachment to it that I do. Will he just be "thrown away"? Hmm...I guess I better make a provision for that in my will. In my own will - which I have written along with a living will - I have stated that I want my family to do whatever makes them happy. If that means scattering my ashes to the 4 winds so be it. After all, I won't be the one unhappy - it will be the ones left behind who grieve. (BTW, if you don't have a will and a living will - GET ONE. Very important.)

So, today is September 11th. What a date.

So!

2006-09-08T13:16:00.000-05:00

I just HAD to take a picture of this redneck in WalMart yesterday. I had to do it 'on the sly' with my cell phone. It's mean I know but this guy looked like he had just stepped out of the dictionary under the word 'redneck'. His water boots have hand-written on them "Git-R-Done". The cap is camoflauge. It was just too much.

And I've always like Hal Sparks but him on Celebrity Duets with Wynonna - be still my heart!!

Great Birthday

2006-09-05T13:17:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my birthday. It was great. Last night I received a voicemail from my favorite Minnesoteans. :)

Check out the cake my mom had made for me. She's the best mom EVER!! (I had an Elvis one on my 21st)

I'm on my way now to Best Buy to get my new car stereo installed!! Hell yeah!

Have a good one

2006-09-03T13:37:00.000-05:00

I might have just died and gone to heaven. David Boreanaz now has a blog.

http://www.fox.com/bones/features/davids_blog.htm

I hope he actually keeps it up.

And yay to me - I won first place at Retro Challenge with my Greta Garbo icon. Funny that I dislike Greta and it's the icon I put the least effort into and it won 1st place.

Tomorrow is my birthday and the family is getting together tonight for cake and ice cream. We celebrate 3 other birthdays too but it's not really about them - it's ALL me! :) But seriously, can't wait to see what my Mom gets me. Her gifts rock.

Still can't have internet until the 7th so it might be until then before i can get back here. In the meantime - everyone enjoy their Labor Day holiday!

Still Alive

2006-08-31T16:25:00.000-05:00

but won't have internet access until next thursday and it's way to inconvienent to come to the library every day.

Yet Another PC

2006-08-24T09:41:00.000-05:00

It has been a crazy week. It's my last week at my company. I officially move to Greenville tomorrow. The company laid off 2 people Monday and everyone has been so tense about it. I'm furious myself. They, in my opinion, made horrible choices on who to lay off. But they stayed quite true to their pattern of behavior.

My Acer laptop had a bad optical drive (the audio was scratchy and poppy and dvd images would jump and fade from color to black and white). So Circuit City swapped out my hard drive and gave me another one. It had the same exact problems. So I had to take the 2nd one back. This time I went with a Gateway. I know some people groan at the mention of Gateway but I don't get the hate. My old computer is a Gateway - I've had it for 9 years with no problems. Plus it was either this one or an HP and I didn't like the screen and overall set-up of the HP. These were the only two that had the same quality of components for the price I had spent on the Acer.

I had to lose the 17" screen and 10key pad which is a bit sad but I gotta say I don't miss the weight. This 15.4" model is 2lbs. lighter and much easier to carry and use on your lap. Great sound. Very loud for a laptop (I made them demo Elvis cds in the store for me!) I would have liked to have a better software bundle but that's okay. It came with a restore disc which the other pc didn't. I do wish the owner's manual was better. There are no clear specs on the battery and its life. Also, there isn't a guide that tells you what lights mean and what all the function keys are. I love the look and design of the pc.

So overall, I'm happy with this pc so far. But let me give it a full week before giving a deeper review.

Work and Play

2006-08-15T12:49:00.000-05:00

So my last day at work in the 25th. I've started sending out resumes in Greenville but haven't gotten much of a response yet. As soon as I get up there I'll go to all of the staffing agencies.

I've heard lots of people say before, "the boss will treat you differently after you give notice" I didn't think it would be that way for me. I've never been the boss' favorite but I've never had a bad relationship with them either. But since they found out I'm leaving the owner and manager have been a bit indifferent towards me. Each time they talk to me it's about their situation - "Make sure you get as much done in the next 2 weeks as you can." "Have you figured out what you want to do about your insurance?" "Show someone what you're working on." This may sound normal to most people - the boss is going to care more about his business than me, but you'd have to know how this office is.

Icons I've made recently. Elvis, Retro, Buffy/Angel, David Boreanaz

The verdict is in

2006-08-11T15:47:00.000-05:00

and my boss said no thanks.

so it's off to mass resume send-out I go.

Big Moves

2006-08-10T16:04:00.000-05:00

I finally presented my boss with my proposal. It went as I expected. He told me he'd have to think about and said that he'd let me know by Friday afternoon which was when I requested. He mentioned they might propose to keep me on as a consultant paid for time worked. That could be okay depending on pay rate and the amount of hours I'd be given.

Aaaaaaaaaand we're veering off to the left.

So You Think You Can Dance rocks my socks off! The dances are amazing - the choreography so emotional and stunning. My two picks from the beginning have made it into the finale. The top 10 go on tour soon and they'll be in Greenville October 18th. You better believe I'll be there. If it's awesome to watch on tv - in person it'll be fantastic!

I have a constant pain in my neck for playing on my new computer too much!

New Computer & Weekend Drives

2006-08-07T10:50:00.000-05:00

SC had it's tax free weekend and I took advantage of it by buying my new computer.
I went over my budget a bit and got the Acer Aspire AS9411AWSMI for $900.00 (after rebates). It has dual-core Intel Core Duo processor T2050, 1GB of 533MHz DDR2 memory as well as a 120GB ATA hard drive. I like the built-in webcam and DVD capabilities. Most techies probably wouldn't care for it too much because it's a desktop replacement notebook meaning it's 8.4 lbs. therefore not as convienent to tote around. But I, realistically, probably won't tote it around that much so I wanted the large 17" screen and the keyboard that includes a 10-key pad which I use constantly.

The things I'm not loving about it are:
1. that it came loaded with the following software:

Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition
Acer Arcade, GridVista and Launch Manager
Norton AntiVirus
CyberLink PowerProducer
Adobe Reader
NTI CD-Maker

however Circuit City & Acer didn't give you any hard copies of the software. The pc prompts you to burn a back-up disc immediately when you turn it on. For $900.00 you should get the hard copies of the software. And booklet information about them. I put a dvd in and 4 different programs wanted to open it. I need to know what the difference is between the programs? I shouldn't have to turn myself into Sherlock Holmes to find out what my brand-new computer has on it.

2. Circuit City included in the package a McAfee Internet Security Suite cd. Once I installed this it is taking about 8 minutes for my computer to start up. No lie. The pc doesn't have a fast processor already and this cd is slowing it waaaaaaaaay down. I'm going to have my IT tech here at work take a peek at it and tell me if all of that McAfee and Norton is neccessary on there. Because I can't deal with the long startup time!

We took a drive out State Park Road in Greenville this weekend and went into Traveler's Rest. Pretty country-esque area. We found a house for sale on 7.5 acres that had beautiful pastures and a view of Paris Mountain. Unfortunatley it cost $459,000 dollars. SO, we won't be buying it. It was fun though to drive and explore the areas new to me. I look so forward to being able to do that more when I move up there (which should be in the next 2 weeks!)

It's amazing how a car ride through the country can wear you out:

Techy Talk

2006-07-31T12:38:00.000-05:00

So my computer is antiquated (by comptuer standards). The meager 64mb SDram memory won't allow me to load a platform newer than Windows 98 and not many current softwares will work with 98. Therefore, I have a problem.
So, Hubby and I have been shopping around for pcs. We're leaning a bit towards a laptop now (or notebook shall I say) but I haven't completely marked the desktop off of my list. They have their advantages. Our main requirements are; dual core processor for multi-tasking, at least 1024mb of memory and at least a 100gb hard drive so I can load it up with fun stuff. With those requirements you're pretty much going to get a system that has your dvd+rw double layer, etc...
We're looking at perhaps the Acer Aspire. We'll spend just about the same amount for a desktop once we purchase a monitor.

The laptop offers mobility for sure. While you're sitting up at the hospital waiting for your niece to be born you can entertain yourself in the waiting room by doing some work or watching a dvd. You can easily check your email at a wireless cafe while on vacation. So many options. But here's the thing. People rarely get this one notebook pc and little else to go with it. We are an accessories nation. Do I want to be burdened with a backpack of equipment to be toting around? Because once I have it I know I will. I'll be walking out the house and say "Will I need my pc? Weeeeeelll, I might." And then I'll pick it up and tote it with me. Upon reaching my destination, I'm not gonna want to leave it in the car - so I'll have to tote it with me again.

Plus, while the laptop offers pretty much everything I'll need now - what about in the future. I know the Acer (shown above) has expandable memory but will that be enough expansion power?

And what about the screen? It comes with a nice 15.4 viewable screen but I really strain reading a 15" screen at a high resolution. I think I'd kinda like to have a large 19" monitor. It makes a huge difference.

Ack! Decisions are not my forte.

On another techy note; I picked up a 1gb USB flash drive today. It's an Ativa and I got it at Office Depot for $25 (no rebates, thankyouverymuch!) What a cool little tool. Say goodbye to having to burn cds just for transferring data. This guy is shorter than a stick of gum, extra light and easy to use. I didn't even have to load any software or drivers. Fantastic. You do, however, have to have a computer that's not antiquated. I will have to plug mine into my grandpa's pc and burn down all my data on his because the USB won't work with Win98. Understandable.

Speaking of USB drives - they now make them in extremely cool and convienent styles. Imation offers the unit in a wristband style or a clip. Let's hear it for versatility!

I love my husband

2006-07-28T10:02:00.000-05:00

Grease mania

2006-07-27T12:49:00.000-05:00

Check it ^ my first purely Photoshop header.

I've been on a Grease icon making frenzy. And there are more to come later because I am working my way through the movie. Here's what I have so far:

marriage

2006-07-26T11:47:00.000-05:00

One of the hardest things about being married is when you enjoy something that your spouse doesn't understand. I LOVE being on the computer, making avatars and chatting on boards. Hubby doesn't like it and therefore, doesn't like for me to do it either. And for some reason it REALLY aggravates him when I sit on the computer at home. Even if it's only 1 hour (which to me, is no time at all). I could understand if I were in naughty chat rooms and do something a married lady shouldn't but I don't. And I don't keep any of my online activity a secret from him. I don't think he's even bothered at what I'm doing online but rather the amount of time I could spend doing it and not paying attention to him. Does he even conciously realize he wants my attention? I doubt it. I've been trying to think this morning if there is anything that he does that causes me to criticize him. I don't guess he really does anything right now but when he went to the gym he would be gone for 3 hours and I would unreasonably be annoyed by that. I mean, how in the hell can it take 3 hours at the gym? What the heck are you doing there? He said he'd run, rinse off, swim, rinse off, sauna, shower. And he takes his time at everything he does so of course - that all would take him 3 hours.

I guess I'm just going to have to ask him to understand that this is what I like to do for fun. It's my ME time - chatting, blogging, photoshop-ing. I'll just have to also try and be understanding of whatever hobby he wants to pick up and let him have his HIM time. If he will. He doesn't seem as concerned with having alone time as I am.

I went to the tiny Greenville Zoo yesterday. The animals were in a pissy mood. They'd be running around and playing, I'd walk over and they immediately just sit down with their backs to me as if to say "Great. Another fucking human." I was only able to get a couple of shots and they're not very good. The squirrel and gator made me giggle though. And there is NOTHING cuter than a baby orangutan. The waterfall was just a landscape feature but all these wild birds were have a spa-day so I took a picture.

On the way to the zoo Hubby & I saw this group of 5 kids riding their bikes - they looked around 10 - and they all threw their trash on the ground in this beautiful park. Hubby screeched the car to a halt -despite the traffic behind us - and yelled at the kids "Hey! Why do you have to litter like that, huh?" Scared the shit out of the kids.

God knows, I love him.

3 college guys picked up applications for our rental property. If they return them and their credit checks out okay - we could have the house rented which means I could be making the move to Greenville soon. What a long transition this has been.

Terminology & TV

2006-07-21T08:47:00.000-05:00

Have you ever noticed that everyone calls the main city area "downtown"? What ever happened to "uptown"? That's always bugged me for some reason - although I'm just as guilty as everyone else.

I've told most of my friends but for those who I haven't told. You must get this cd:

Her songs are honest, eloquent and have simple but enduring melodies. I'm totally in love with it.

I've been sucked back into reality competition tv. Every summer I say I won't let it get me and then what do I do? This year I've been watching So You Think You Can Dance and it is SO much more entertaining than the singing competitions. The judges actually give REAL criticism on this not just - "you look so beautiful". They actually make comments based on techniques and movements. And the choreography is just wonderful. Plus, they don't drag out who's going to be eliminated.

I've also been watching Last Comic Standing. It's good for some chuckles.

It's been forever since I mentioned Rescue Me. It kicks TOTAL ASS! Denis Leary rocks. I REALLY hope he wins the Emmy, although I know he probably won't because the show isn't as popular as the main networks shows. That's too bad. It really is one of the best things out there.

Superman Returns

2006-07-17T11:41:00.000-05:00

I saw Superman Returns over the weekend. Hubby & I went to the 10:00PM showing. With only 6 other groups of people in the theater though - we feel like we missed most of it. I was SO PISSED.

First, two couples brought toddlers. What happened to kids having bedtimes? Who brings kids to a 10 o'clock movie?

1 couple also had an infant. Their's weren't TOO bad although they did make noise that caught my attention.

The other couple, which sat on the row in front of us a little to the left, was awful. The woman talked to her kid in her normal tone of voice throughout the film (instead of whispering). He apparently dropped something at one point and was allowed to swing around a little blue light for about 3 minutes looking for it.

Then, with maybe 15 minutes left in the film - the climax of the movie - this woman comes in with 2 young kids and sits down in our row. They're talking, making all this noise so I SHHHHH!! them really loudly. They lower their voices but don't stop talking. Then, the bitch pulls out her cell phone (LIGHTS!) and STARTS MAKING A PHONE CALL!! Hubby was PISSED!!

I was so distracted that I felt like I really missed the movie.

What I did gather though - Brandon Routh was HOT!! I wish I could say more about the film but I really couldn't concentrate on it enough to. :(

It's been a stressful few days

2006-07-14T09:06:00.000-05:00

3:30 Wednesday morning my PawPaw woke me up and asked me to take him to the emergency because he was having severe chest pains. He gets to come home today. He wound up having to have two stints placed into his heart because of blockages. It all went well but he's not going to be able to lift anything for awhile.

I've stayed home the past two days to take care of MawMaw while he's gone. I wouldn't have it any other way, but it is extremely exhausting. I can't believe how much he does at 70. He's really amazing.

A Warning

2006-07-10T14:15:00.000-05:00

I went to Greenville this weekend. It was nice to see all my belongings. I got to hold them and croon to them before I had to abruptly abandon them again.

So perhaps I'm a bit too attached to my things. But I do indeed miss them. Not having the things you've collected through the years of your life, near you makes you feel wierdly disconnected. I'm ready to have that "grounded" feeling back. We looked at some houses that were for sale in our neighborhood. We're not really in the market to buy but I couldn't resist. One is an EXCELLENT buy for a flipper. Technically we could buy it but then we'd be right back in the same situation with having to hold 2 payments. So, we sighed deeply and acknowledged that we'd have to let someone else get this one. Too bad. Fantastic deal. Just some exterior work and landscaping and you could make a great flip. I would love for my Aunt Cici to buy it and live near me, but that's never going to happen and I'm just living in fantasy land.

Before I move on to the inevitable picture post, I wanted to give everyone a bit o advice about entirelypets.com We made a purchase from them recently for the first time. We order Advantage flea control for our pets. We've used Advantage on them for years and never had a problem. At all. Well, when we received our order from them we noticed the product did not smell as strong as it usually does and it was much less yellow - more clear- than the other orders we've gotten. Despite this, we used it anyway. Ever since, we have been battling fleas and ticks. And not just 1 or 2 here. Abby got covered. Hubby & I must have spent 2 hours picking through Abby last weekend. We've bathed her and checked all the other girls. We thought that perhaps I miscalculated the dosages (because we buy dosage for 1 large dog and then divide it up amongst them according to their original prescription) SO we tried putting a bit more on the dogs. But the stuff just isn't doing its job. I'm highly frustrated. At this point, I would have to go on the safe side, and not order Advantage from this site. Perhaps it's not their fault but it must be their suppliers. Poor Abby is scratching her skin bloody. I've been giving her Benedryl but still she scratches. I can't stand having fleas and ticks around.

On to better topics.
I think this picture of Ariana turned out beautifully.

Nature Meets Man

The sod that Hubby has worked so so hard on is taking off well. The grass he laid 1 week earlier is so much greener. It just loves his custom built sprinkler system.

Blogger Oh I Miss You So

2006-07-06T08:45:00.000-05:00

I want desperately to have enough time to delve through all my favorite blogs today. Unfortunately I don't think it's going to happen. I've already been goofing off enough today and the pressure is on to get my work finished up. I've got to start surfing blogger again, commenting like crazy. We all do. That's what's gonna get blogger back on it's feet (from, i imagine, the smackdown caused by myspace.) Hopefully, I can do that tomorrow or Monday. I'm going to Greenville this weekend where I don't have a computer.

Look, my first award from Retro Challenge at Livejournal:

Here is 1 Lucille Ball avatar I made:

Some songs that my dear Ms. Adventures has gotten me totally hooked on. The first one is a gospel song but my GOSH does it make me wanna shake my ass!
Kirk Franklin - Looking For You
Cee Lo - I Think You're Crazy

Reminisce

2006-07-03T09:10:00.000-05:00

I found this old picture today. It makes me laugh because I remember making it. It was taken in '85 by my Aunt Cici in Brunswick, GA. Jon (my older brother) & I were pretending to be a caveman & his woman he's dragging back to the den. My brother stuck spanish moss down his shorts as a "costume". He didn't realize that the moss was full of chiggers. He soon found out. heh heh heh

Fun In the Plan

2006-06-30T11:38:00.000-05:00

This weekend I will be house-sitting for my Mom. Mostly so that I can take care of her dog, Bleu. But she has a pool and it's supposed to be 96 degrees tomorrow so the pool will be fantastic.

I have Monday and Tuesday off for the July 4th holiday. I'm hoping it won't be too hot those days so Hubby & I can go something fun. We haven't been to the Congaree Swamp in a long time and I really love it. Maybe we'll go there.

Videos and Sturkie Girls

2006-06-27T14:14:00.000-05:00

This video cracks me up.

I gave my sister her present today. She turned 19 yesterday. She cried. She loved it.
Video Here (might have to keep checking back)

We took a lot of pictures together.

Pimpage

2006-06-27T08:56:00.000-05:00

If you like retro avatars, join livejournal and retro challenge.

We need more creators and voters. It's a lot of fun.

I Got Mad Skilz

2006-06-26T15:29:00.000-05:00

Well not really, but avatars I have made. Multi-fandom love:

Elvis, Judy Garland, Katherine Hepburn, Olivia Newton-John and 2 I made for a retro challenge at Livejournal. Feel free to use these if you want, but please give me the credit and don't hotlink them.

Weekend - Yay?

2006-06-23T10:57:00.000-05:00

Usually I adore Fridays. The atmosphere at work is usually a bit lighter and the ride home almost always feels joyous. However, today I keep just thinking about the work I will be doing at my rental property and knowing that it will be in the upper 90s again. I'm really tired of this hot ass weather.

I just finished watching my downloaded season 5 finale of Smallville which I had missed. Pretty good episode. The imagery was beautiful. But how come every time I watch videos on my computer the audio and visual get out of sync? It's so annoying. Interesting cliffhanger Smallville left with. I wonder how Clark will get out of that. Although I think Clark should have been naked. That would have worked much better for me! ;)

Wish I Could Think of Something More To Say

2006-06-22T12:03:00.000-05:00

I feel so blah today. I'm not in a bad mood. Not in a great mood. I'm just....here.

I've decided not to update myspace anymore. I've been posting my blog entries there as well but no one looks at it (not that anyone looks here either) but I'm turned off my myspace in general. It's just so pre-teen to me. Plus I hate getting all these "friend requests" from wannabe stars. I guess it's fine for them but I want to get to know people and I don't just promote myself randomly. Plus I just don't have the time to get involved in anyone else's blogs.

I'm pissed at myself for forgetting about Rescue Me Tuesday night.

My belly is rumbling. It's lunch time.

Jekyll Island pictures

2006-06-19T13:39:00.000-05:00

Get ready. I have left photos rather large to show detail.

Jekyll Island Club where the millionaries played during the early part of the 1900's. Note the croquet court on the front lawn.

The Rockefeller's winter home sits across from the Island Club and has the largest windows I have ever seen. Compare to my cousin sitting in front of one.

The Sans Souci sits across from the Island Club as well. It was the first condominiums in the U.S. It is now a hotel.

various trees and groves w/ a Golden Isles/Brunwick native - Spanish Moss

marsh view:

Crane Cottage

can't remember the name of this cottage. they've been renovating it for 15 years and from the peeks I took inside - it still has a long way to go. note the platform on the staircase for people to step out of their carriages.

miscellaneous building. i just liked this doorway

remains from a burned cottage had these GORGEOUS lions flanking the staircase. i bet these would go for a fortune at an auction.

Plantation Oak. The largest and most beautiful of oaks on Jekyll Island. The plague is rather old but it states that it has a 7'3" diameter, 128' limb to limb, 23' girth, 112' high, estimated 350 years old. I wish I had a wide angle lens to get the entire tree. Many of the lower limbs go into the ground and back out again. It's really quite breathtaking.

I also visited my grandmother's grave. While in the cemetary I took a picture of a family plot I liked that was dated around 1915.

and an angel that I just fell in love with so I had to take tons.

and my favorite:

Looky Looky at my new toys:

Quick Post Before I Leave

2006-06-16T09:24:00.000-05:00

I'm taking off from work today at noon. I'm going to mosey down to Brunswick GA to visit family. You can expect to see lots of photos. Especially now that I have my tripod. I was totally loving that thing last night. I told Hubby now I want to hang a backdrop and set up props! Playing photographer/model is so much fun! It makes me feel 15 again.

If anyone needs some custom graphic work done, email Jen. She's easy to work with and extremely nice. She just made this photo for me. It's a gift for my sister who never got to know my Dad. The picture of my dad is manipulated into the picture to look like he's at my sister's graduation. I think it's just so touching.

I'm am SO glad I got an mp3 player this weekend before I start my 4 hour trek to GA. I would have DIED with nothing but fm radio all the way there and back. Oh, I got my allergy test results yesterday (and another 20 shots in my arm BOO!). Apparently, I'm allergic to every type of grass and weed that they test for. Dust mites of course are my enemy. (I knew that one). I intend to fully use this to my advantage when it comes to housework! ;) I also had a high allergy count to trees. Other lower yet positive reactions were to cat and dog dander and some molds/mildews. Therefore, the allergist now wants to be go on allergy shots. I'm trying to decide. Most of it hinges on money. With my upcoming move to Greenville, I may be out of a job for awhile. That means - no insurance. Without insurance it will cost $42.00 a week. $168.00 is a lot of money to have to shell out every month. Of course, the alternative is to keep popping pills the rest of my life which I loathe.

Ah well, enough about my lovely sinuses. Off I go to have a fabulous weekend! Hope you all have a great one!

The downfall of A&E

2006-06-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

Last night I watched a history of Superman on A&E. It was pretty

cool. But afterwards, you won't believe what came on. The World

Championship of ROCK PAPER SCISSORS.

No fucking lie! And it had a $50,000 prize!! It was sponsored by

BudLight. I told Hubby we got to come up with some sort of crazy thing

to do on tv because BudLight will sponsor anything. And apparantely, tv

will air anything BudLight sponsors. I'm highly disappointed in

A&E. You could tell they were mocking other championships but they

were really commentating and had girls in tiny shorts cheering plus

they had rules and guidelines on how you could play. It was insane.

My friend, Stephanie, pointed out that I hadn't posted pictures of

Lucas. My adorable Phil Collins look-a-like nephew. He is Isabella's

half-brother. He's a card! After an hour of pestering him last week, he

finally said my name. It was soooooo cute!

Babies and Houses

2006-06-12T14:01:00.000-05:00

It's over. We've closed on our house. It feels kinda strange.

Sunday was completely lazy. Hubby was transfixed by the World Cup while I took the world's longest nap. We did manage to see my niece this weekend. Meet Isabella Grace:

Isn't she the most gorgeous baby EVER? (say yes or your fingers will be promptly broken). Also I must show off the most kissable face EVER!

Our rental property is completed inside. Now, it's just a matter of trimming more in the yard, laying sod and hooking up the sprinkler system - which Hubby has been obsessed with. I'm glad it's almost over. We've decided on a property management group and I'm pleased to know that I won't have to deal with background checks and rental collection! I will talk to my boss in a week or two about my job. Keeping my fingers crossed that all goes well.

My Overdue Post

2006-06-09T07:59:00.000-05:00

Geez. Blogger was being a real bitch yesterday. I tried to post an entry several times but couldn't.

I burned my hand this morning trying to check the oil in my car. I know I should've just waited until it was cooler but still, do they have to put the dip stick in the middle of the freakin engine? I mean, what the hell rich engineers? "Let's take the most commonly used item in the engine and put it in the most difficult location to get to. Heh. Heh. Heh." assholes.

An online friend of mine recommened some music. Have a listen. I've really been digging The Fray lately.

Eric Lapointe - Coupable
The Fray - Look After You
Blue October - Calling You

So I changed the "design" of my blog again. I just can't escape the simplicity of this 2 column design. I like making the headers too much. This one was my attempt at a retro theme. The lady in the picture, Elsie, was my grandmother. Quite the hottie, huh? I made several more if you want to have a lookie loo:

Want. Comment. Take. Credit. Use.
Textures/Tiles:
1,4,5: Tack-O-Rama
2,3 : TrexTures
No Hotlinking.
1 2 3 4 5

We close on our house on Monday. I can't believe it's almost done. I have such mixed emotions. Part of me is very excited but the other half is incredibly nervous and sad. Times are a changing.

Ouchie!

2006-06-05T12:17:00.000-05:00

I had my skin test this morning at the allergist. That was about as much fun you can have while not having fun! I got 88 needle pricks in my back and 18 injections in my arm. I earned my gold star today and I'm thinking, some french fries.

Unfortunately, I won't know the results for 2 weeks when I go back and maybe get more shots. Boo.

The weekend was nice. We worked a lot but it was an enjoyable work since the weather wasn't TOO hot. Not like the poor people in Arizona battling 111º. Isn't that just insane? 111º. I think my ass would be planning a move!

I did feel a little sad when we packed up the last remaining items in our garage of the house we're selling. I'm going to miss that house. Not only because of it's size but because we've made so many memories there. We got married while living there. We got Lucy Lulu while living there. I accidentally hit Hubby with the car while living there. Okay, so that's not such a good memory but you know what I mean.

I was pleased to see all my flowers blooming and budding at my house in Greenville!

We also discovered these mysterious bugs in Greenville. They look very patriotic don't they? Or perhaps they are Spiderman's calling card? If anyone knows what they are, please let me know.

A New Hair Cut

2006-06-02T15:17:00.000-05:00

"You love until you don't, You try until you can't"

2006-05-31T12:51:00.000-05:00

I've gotten nothing done today. Not even non-work related things that I intended to do today.

I've been so absorbed in livejournal - going through all the various Buffy and Angel related communities - there's no way to concentrate on anything else. There is just SO much to see there that it's pretty overwhelming. I don't want to friend ALL of those communities and people. Because, it'll be rather confusing when looking at my blog. I guess I'll just have to bookmark them the old fashion way.

I remembered my Open Letter to Joss Whedon today. I must finish that. I also must harrass Bethies into setting up the site for it. Or I should do it myself. But it's her idea and I don't want to steal it. But my vision of it is probably different than hers.

Rescue Me premiered last night as was a great season 3 opener. They must be the most f*cked up group of people ever created. But I love it. Dennis Leary is totally sexy.

We think we're going to be able to close on the house next week. I'll be so relieved. So will Hubby since he's carrying most of the financial burden. This realtor has been very professional. An extreme improvement over the last one. When we've closed, I'm going to write a letter of complaint to that realtor's office and to the realtor's association. It might not do anything except make me feel better. But that's okay.

My sunburn (it's really more of a tan now) is starting to itch. My portable cd player in my car has completely died. It's been dying a slow death for awhile. I only paid $40 for it and I've had it for almost 2 years so I guess I've gotten my money's worth out of it. I can't decide whether I want to get a cd player in the car or an mp3 player. I think I might just get both. I mean, I gotta be realistic. If I get an mp3 player - I'm probably only gonna get a 512mb (maybe a 1gb but probably not) and it's only gonna hold about 100 songs. Well, what about all my cds that I already have? Am I supposed to rip them all onto the computer and then load them onto the mp3 player? That's tedious. And then am I supposed to leave off my mp3s because the player is filled with the ripped music? Hmmm...I think I'm talking myself into the cd player as I type. For the car. Maybe I'll still get the mp3 player for non-car listening.

I watched some more Angel season 3 last night. I love it and I hate it. I'm so torn. While I am riveted by the acting and David's hunkiness, I hate where they took the storylines for the major chunk of seasons 3 & 4. The first 8 eps of season 3 are fantastic and there are others scattered about that I love but for the most part - the prophecy, the Angel/Cordy relationship, the shutout of Wes - it all just kills me. Why can't the fangirl in me just be happy that they are there and not nitpick it to death?

And on that note, I must sign off. I have a doctor's appt. Chiao! (to the maybe 2 people who read this blog).

yes I know I have an "h" in chiao - that's how it's spelled in spanish.

The Weekend Summary In Pictures

2006-05-30T14:23:00.000-05:00

The Black Sheep

2006-05-25T10:11:00.000-05:00

I think one reason that I was so attached to my Grandma S. is that I felt like she was "all mine". My Aunt Cici was extremely close to her but as far as the grandkids, it was all me. My other grandparents have always been obvious in their preference with my brothers (my MawMaw coming right out and saying it to me). My Mom has always connected with my brothers on a different level than me and I just feel like she loves them more.
This really doesn't hurt me. I don't feel unloved by my family. I just know I'm not the favorite. I think people tend to gravitate towards the children that have their personality type. My ex-stopmom favors my brother Rivers over my sister Nora because Rivers is just like her. I don't think it's concious on the adult's part. It's just the way it is.
I'm not very much like my Grandparents, my Mom or my siblings. I am however very much like my Aunt Cici and my Grandma S. True, my basic characteristics are very much like my mother; we laugh alike, we're both loud, we both adore animals, we're both very sensitive, controlling and impatient. But when you delve deeper into me - my love for big band music, my sense of humor, my taste in television shows and cult(ish) phenomenon - it's all from my Grandma and Aunt.
There was never any competition for attention with Grandma. She was always there for me and let me truly be me. No judgements. No snickers at my interests/opinions. When I was younger, gathered with my family I often felt "me against them". So many times my Mom and brother would laugh at me and I would just cry in frustration because I felt they didn't "get" me. I still don't feel they do but I don't cry anymore. I am secure in who I am. And I like who I am. I do feel sad though that they can't see exactly who I've become.

The Goings On

2006-05-20T09:50:00.000-05:00

I finally saw THESE GIRLS last night!! I loved it! I thought it was really funny. And David Boreanaz was so sexy that I got that butterfly-in-the-stomach feeling, specifically during his first encounter with Caroline Dhaveras. And those black briefs - geez, I practically melted!!! I loved the soundtrack too.

So the original contract is void. Due to it stating we would close by the 15th and Hubby & I never hearing from them. Thank goodness we had someone else stop to look Wednesday night. They've already made us an offer and we've accepted it. It's actually a better deal for us anyway. And it seems that there realtor is quite professional and has all his shit together. The only bad part is that closing probably won't be until approx. June 15th. I'm so ready for this to me over with.

Today, Hubby and I are off to work on our rental property some more. It's almost finished inside except for the carpet which installers should be calling about soon. There's still LOTS to do in the yard, but all of that can be worked on as people are living in the home. Gotta get the money coming in, ya know? We had a big thunderstorm this morning and I think that has us dragging our feet to get out of here.

My brother's girlfriend, Mellie, is supposed to be having my niece today. The doctor broke her "membrane" (i think) yesterday. My Mom is beside herself. My niece's name will be Isabella Grace. Isn't that pretty? Mellie's mom wants to call her Izzie and my Mom says, "I don't care what they call her - I'm going to call her Grace." I think that's pretty disrespectful but I couldn't say anything to anyone about it. It's my opinion that they are the parents and that everyone should call the baby what they want the baby to be called. Oh well. Not my battle.

The allergist prescribed Allegra for me but due to extreme dizziness - which has lasted over 24 hours now (off & on) I won't be taking it any more. It's a real bitch to not be able to walk without stumbling to the side.

Selling Woes

2006-05-18T11:51:00.000-05:00

The move. Argh. Can we say DUMBASSES?!

Per our contract we were supposed to close on the 15th. All last week, we didn't hear anything from anyone so I called the real estate agent (who we agreed to pay a 3.5% commission). Each time she was like, "I'll call you back" and then she wouldn't. Finally she gave my husband the mortgage company's number. I called them and they said, "Oh we're just waiting on a few more documents. We should close Tuesday or Wednesday. We've never heard from them again. We've placed multiple calls to the realtor. The last call, on Tuesday, she told my husband "I'll call you back in 20 minutes." and never did. So hubby and I have basically said, "Well screw them then." Technically the contract is null and void since it states closing by the 15th. We showed the house 3 times yesterday and one couple in particular seemed really interested. They've called us today and said they're going to fax us an offer this evening. Keep your fingers crossed.

I made a B/A wallpaper today. Photobucket compressed it though. The original is 1024x768.

lyrics: Missing You by Jem
texture: trex-tures

the small lyrics say:
my happiness disappeared the moment you were gone, now all i'm feeling is lost and numb, I miss you and it's killing inside, it feels like somebody's stabbed me in my heart, want you by my side, walking, holding hands, talking, making plans, touching my heart, my soul

I made some LOST signature banners for a friend:

The Code, Smoking & Scrubs Finale

2006-05-17T08:25:00.000-05:00

I'm seriously tired of hearing everyone talk about the "controversy" of The Da Vinci Code. Why is this controversial? The author has publicly said that it is fiction. Why does christianity feel so threatened by this? Is this film really going to affect christianity any more than The Seventh Seal or any other religion-based movie? I seriously doubt it. Myself, I think it looks rather great. I might check it out. And why is it premiering at Cannes? I thought that was an independent film festival?

I want smoking banned from public restaraunts and bowling alleys. Also skating rinks - places where there tend to be a lot of kids. It was recently up for vote here but was shot down and sent back to committee. Yesterday I heard several lawmakers want to drop property tax here but to recoup the costs - they want to raise the taxes on cigarettes. Now I have family members that smoke so I'm not just trying to be an ass. But I think if the smokers have the right to endanger the health of other people - hell yeah - let 'em pay more. What money I saw on taxes, I'll probably have to use to buy sinus headache medicine after I go bowling.

The Scrubs finale. You know I can't avoid talking about it. I pretty much knew what was coming but that didn't make me like it any more. The jokes were funny as always but I felt the major storyline for JD was awfully awfully rushed. I like how they threw us for a loop with the pregnancy. We all guessed Jordan would be pregnant - since the Christa Miller is pregnant in real life but I wasn't expecting there would be 2 pregnancies. I don't want JD to have a baby with a character that he doesn't even know well. It seems unlike JD to be so irresponsible. I just feel sad about it. Maybe it's because I'm pmsing (and I'm always easy to cry during this time of the month). Maybe it's because I've already been upset over the Grey's Anatomy season finale. Maybe it's because I'll have to wait until not September, but JANUARY to receive a resolution for this storyline. I still want JD & Elliott together. I will go down with this ship.

One more rant, I don't like that my vet's office can charge me $13 per pet to release their prescriptions so I can order it from a place that won't gouge me. I think that is totally unfair of any doctor's office to do. You pay them a lot of money and then they want to charge you to get what is rightfully yours?? Pussy asses.

Grey's Anatomy Ramble

2006-05-16T08:36:00.000-05:00

The finale of Grey's Anatomy emotionally beat me up last night. I even dreamed about Izzie & Denny. It just completely broke my heart.

I knew they were going to kill him. I just desperately wanted them not to.

I had missed the part with the xrays. I saw it last night when they repeated the ep. Thanks for pointing that out for me.

I BAWLED last night. I cried when Meredith and Derek put Doc to sleep. And then I started all over again when I saw Izzie lying with Denny. I think it was an important move to further her character's development.

I hear that next season Mark (McSteamy) is supposed to be back for an extended period of time. I think they are going to split up Derek & Addison. They are a time bomb any way because he doesn't love her. I like Addison. Mark is hotter any way.

When Meredith & Derek were going at it - all I could think about was "Pull the curtain! Pull the curtain!" and then I thought - "Man, she's got some knobby knees!"

I don't like Callie, George's girlfriend. This sounds horribly mean but I think she is very ugly and it totally distracts me. But he was the same sweet George telling her that he had to be honest. He's so wonderful. I just wish he'd grow his hair back out. I hate the Beaver look.

I think the writers really like Burke & Christina together because I would have figured those two to fall apart by now. I guess we see what their story will be for early next season.

I LOVE Bailey!! She cracks me up! I love her spunk and I love her underlying sweetness.

DAMN YOU WRITERS!!! You make me hate Alex and then you go and let him do something heroic or sweet and give me doubts! Argh.

I like that they let Denny die quickly and gently. But I'm still heartbroken.

Digital Camera Madness

2006-05-15T14:50:00.000-05:00

So for my anniversary I got a digital camera! Whoo hoo!! It's a Kodak Z740, 5 megapixels, 10x optical zoom, 32 mb internal memory and it shoots video with audio. I bought an extra 256 mb memory too so I would have more video space.

I have had a lot of fun taking pictures this weekend with it.

Mother's Day was nice. The weather was off and on rainy but it was cool so we were able to spend most of it on the back porch. My husband taught a bunch of us to play dominoes and I kicked his butt. That was great! I hope all Blogger mom's had a wonderful day!!

It's Friday again!

2006-05-12T09:09:00.000-05:00

I had a delightful anniversary. No bump and grind because we tired and full. We'll make up for it this weekend - when we're not at the grandparents house! :)

Hubby got me a gift card, which I'm very pleased with. His card read, "Happy Anniversary - to someone who's seen me on the toilet and loves me any way." I laughed. It's so typical us. My Momma got me a beautiful bouqet of yellow tulips - my favorite flower and a digital camera - which I've been wanting so badly! I'm terribly excited! Look for lots of upcoming pictures of my face. :) My grandparents paid for our dinner. That was so nice of them.

My Bee moves tomorrow. It makes me feel so sad. She's leaving and That 70's Show is going off the air. What a sad week indeed.

I'm crazy in love with the Jem album. You should definately get it! The lyrics will satisfy any deep romantic like me while the modern rhythms will satisfy the pop enthusiast. (more info here)

Good 'Ol Randomness

2006-05-09T16:41:00.000-05:00

I miss the old "What would you do-oo-oo for a Klondike bar?" commercials. Those were always funny. The York Peppermint Patty commercials as well.

My Lucy Lulu gives the sweetest kisses.

My anniversary is Thursday the 11th. Please email me for the address to send gifts to.

I miss getting excited over a new John Travolta movie.

Update

2006-05-02T11:36:00.000-05:00

well don'tcha know that since I wrote that this morning, Nora just called me.

She said she just woke up but she sounded rough. She says she's just had an extremely busy semester. After I prodded a bit and told her how much I miss her she said that she has kinda "cut herself off from everyone". I told her I know it's been a crazy year with so much change but that I am always here for her no matter what - she just has to not shut me out. She seemed to get a bit choked up. We then lightened the mood and began talking about other things. She did mention she got fired from her daycare job because she showed up late. I hope she's not partying or sleeping around to deal with depression. That scares me for her. I love my brothers very much but I feel a very special sort of protection for my sister. We talked about dinner and she told me I should come up to her campus tonight and meet her friends and we could have dinner. I'm going to call her at 5 though and see if she answers the phone. If not, I know she's blowing me off again.

Feeling Good and Feeling Reflective

2006-05-02T09:11:00.000-05:00

My husband told me that I look sexy this morning. That's a rarity. I think I can count on one hand how many times he has complimented me. I don't think he does it intentionally - he just doesn't think like that. But it felt so good to be told especially when your ego needs it. (I think it's the new blue jeans). Now if he can only remember our anniversary on the 11th...

I'm feeling good right now about the direction of my life. I mean, it's going to be a bit tough - I've got to learn a new city, meet new people, etc... I have to learn to live in a MUCH smaller home than I'm used to and practically share my personal space with the house being a duplex. But I think if I keep myself intent on our long term goals - I should be okay. Selling our home in Irmo, and renting the other apt. of our duplex in Greenville - we'll be saving a lot of money. This way we'll able to get rid of our debt and move towards our ultimate goal - work for ourselves and build our dream home. I know we can do this. We just have to stay focused.

My sister hasn't spoken to me in almost 6 months. I don't know why. We didn't fight or anything. She's 18 and a freshman in college. She's had a rough couple of years. Our Dad dying, her mom and stepdad seperating, having to change schools, etc... So I wasn't surprised that she joined a sorority when she began college. I think she needs to feel involved/wanted in something. I believe these social obligations keep her busy. But in 6 months, she can't call me? And her college is only 30 minutes away. It really worries me. Is she harming herself by her lifestyle? Her mom, of course, won't tell me anything. I try to phone Nora (did just this morning). I leave her voice mails saying "Hey, I just want to know you're okay. I love you. Call me." and she never returns my calls. I don't know if she is avoiding me because of something I've done or if she is just having emotional issues of her own. Which even if she is - I would want to help her through them. I just HATE this not knowing. If I knew where on her college campus to go - I'd show up at her door. I'm so worried about her.

Gotta blog fast and get to work

2006-05-01T10:08:00.000-05:00

...I soooooo should be doing work right now.

What a fantastic weekend. It felt like I had a real break and it was nice. Friday night I took my time wandering through Walmart. I purchased some makeup and one of those eye lash curlers. I also bought 3 pairs of panties, a yard work bra, and a pretty bra that is just fantastic. It's amazing how you can just tell a good bra when you put it on - it's a Vassarette. My shopping trip was not entirely successful however. I was unable to find blinds in the size I need, unable to find the jeans I wanted and when I got to Sally Beauty Supplies at 8:30 - they were already closed! Kinda early for a Friday night, huh?

Saturday we slept in, then grabbed some biscuits for breakfast. Loaded up in the truck with the dogs - we headed out to our rental property. However, we got distracted by 3 garage sales - one of which Divas very own, Bee. It was fun to chat with her for a bit and a lady who saw Lucy Lulu had to stop and say how pretty Lucy was and how much she loves Boston Terriers. That always makes me feel good. We bought an apartment size stove that looks brand new for $30. We needed it to replace the one in Greenville that is broken. So I was extremely pleased with our bargain buy. We then decided to take the dogs to the park. So, by the time we actually got to our rental property it was after 1pm. I scrubbed down the refrigerator and kitchen cabinets while hubby swept off the roof and hung some blinds. The next door neighbor was having a party to raise money for a dog he'd rescued and they had a live band - so it was nice to have that music to listen to while we were working. That evening after showering, I laid in bed and watched "The Heiress" on TCM (check Divas for my review).

Yesterday I had raging sinus headaches and slept the majority of the day. But I think my body needed it. I've gotta see an allergist soon about these sinus headaches. Today, I think I'm going to continue the hunt for that pair of jeans, make a return trip to Sally Beauty Supplies and check into lawn furniture cushions as a present for Momma. It's her Mother's Day choice of presents.

Catching Up

2006-04-28T07:52:00.000-05:00

It feels like it's been forever since I've blogged. I just haven't had the energy I guess to do it. And a lack of ideas as to what to say.

I've been concentrating mostly on work. And who gives a rat's ass about my work? Last week we had a huge government deadline that we all pulled overtime (my first check EVER with overtime, can you believe that?). And now, I'm busting my ass to get the company ready for a very important trade show May 15-18. I have quite a lot to do for it.

The appraisal went well with our house. We didn't expect anything else with that though. We do have an inspection coming up and we're worried about our gutter drainage being an issue. So hubby will probably have to do some work to that but everything else should be okay.

I haven't had any time to play around with Photoshop and Paint Shop Pro any more. This saddens me. I wish I could get paid to just do that. That'd be great! I want to revamp the look of this blog soon.

Everyone remember to check DIVAS DISHING THE DIRT. Me, Ash & Beth having been doing good keeping it updated. Ciao!

It's A Great Day To Be Alive

2006-04-25T08:41:00.000-05:00

A few things that are currently rocking my world:

We came to a verbally agreement on a contract for my house last night. The buyers just have to fax over the final paperwork this morning and we'll be moving on to appraisals and inspections. Here's hoping to everything working out perfectly!

I haven't bitten my fingernails in 3 weeks! GOoooooooooooo me! I can actually scratch someone now! (so don't go pissing me off)

I love the Oil of Olay body lotion with a hint of sunless tanner. It's not an extreme look - which is what I wanted.

I'm getting 10 hours of overtime on my paycheck tomorrow.

Tony Tag

2006-04-22T11:49:00.000-05:00

#1: I still sleep with a teddy bear

#2: I crack my neck, back, knuckles, wrists, knees, ankles & toes

#3: I have nightmares of sharks

#4: I have sinus headaches every single day all year round (going to an allergist soon)

#5: I like to talk on the phone in the car but not at home

#6: I MUST swab my ears twice a day with q-tips - dirty or not

2006-04-21T07:23:00.000-05:00

Last night I was totally useless. I tried to not be first. I tried to roam around outside but I was getting bug bites so I scampered inside again. I'm bored. I don't want to watch tv constantly but there's nothing else to do at my Grandparent's house. And I'm too broke to go anywhere.

So, I did a big 'ol NOTHING last night except watch tv. Smallville was the usual - same cheesy dialogue they've had for years but then a spectacular Clark Kent moment at the end. It was thrilling to finally see him expose his powers to Lionel Luthor. And it's always awesome to see Clark using his powers so effortlessly. I flipped during commercials to Survivor. But I've lost interest a bit in this season. I also watched Supernatural. I love this show. Other than the fact it has a really hot cast (Jeffrey Dean Morgan?!), the stories are always interesting, the dialogue between the brothers/dad is engaging and the filming is always just as good as a low budget horror flick. At times, it has been downright scary to me - something that's not common with television. I don't think Buffy or Angel ever succeeded in scaring me. But Supernatural has. The head writer must have a degree in psychology or be an extremely observent person because the behavior of the brothers and their interaction with their father is so dead on with a family in their situation.

Anyhow, the episode last night dealt with vampires. I love to watch vampire shows/movies because every one acknowledges different myths. One might choose to have the vamps susceptable to garlic - others won't. And the vampires always look and/or act different. Last night's Supernatural had the vampires looking extremely human except that their eyes glinted in the light - like a deer and when they began to feed an entire second set of teeth descended from their upper gums. Which was totally cool.

I really want to make a longer (non-tv) post but I have a lot of work to do today and I must get started.

Wish I could post more but I'm busy

2006-04-18T09:51:00.000-05:00

I'm still working my way through season 2 of Scrubs so I shall continue my list of love:

2.6 My Big Brother

* JD named his chest hair Clancey!! lol (I love the continuity of JD naming things)
* Cox: "Will people stop calling me Chief?" Kelso: "Hey Numbnuts!"
* Kelso: "It's nothing personal son. You just make me sick." Doug: "He called me son!"
* JD jumping with his karate hands when the janitor scares him
* jealous JD in the restaraunt (I always love jealous heroes - like Angel)
* Turk dancing (as always)
* Janitor knocking the papers out of JD's hands
* Kelso laughing with the gorilla gloves at the end - that was a great shot
[I] I love the how the epsiode prior to this one featured JD & Carla working through a fight and this ep had Turk & Elliott doing it - they were really working hard at forming relationships with each character[/I]

2.7 My First Step

* Kelso catching Heather Locklear's blow kiss
* JD showing her his "tushy" (multiple times)
* Janitor doing the bathroom dance holding his butt cracked me UP!
* The whole entrance scene of Locklear cracked me up with JD's sultry look and Carla "Damn. What? She's hot."
* I liked Turk stealing Cox's steak when he wasn't looking
* the bunji jump. I love how nervous Zach acted. it made JD seem so much more real

2.8 My Fruit Cups

* Laverne: "You look pretty!" Elliott: "Thank you!" and her hair looks like a rat's nest LOL
* Turk falling asleep while listening to the patient's heart at the free clinic!! He nailed that!
* the "Perry gonna get some lovin" dance
* "Paging Dr. Backbone to the bajingo ward" LOL
* the whole prego Jordan vs. Heather Locklear was funny
* the moment with Cox & Jordan in the bathroom was super sweet

2.9 My Lucky Day

* Ted: "Oh god! A good lawyer couldn't win this case!" ([B]ALWAYS[/B] love my ted)

2.10 My Monster

* Turk: "Yea! Playa!"
* JD & Laverne about her breasts "Kudos!" "Mmmhhmm!"
* "What? You don't own that!"
* JD: "Perry." Cox: "Perry?" JD: "Yeah, I'm trying it out."
* Todd: "How's your penis?"
* [COLOR="Red"]HOT[/COLOR] sex scene!! I must admit, I watched this a few times! - great song use too
* LOVE LOVE LOVE JD: "This is exactly what I wanted" - he made me swoon here.

2.11 My Sex Buddy

* JD: "What to do, what to do, what to do..."
* Kelso called JD "assface" LOL
* great song use at the end "Tell Her This" although it makes me sad

2.12 My New Old Friend

* LOVE Mr. Corman the hypochondriac patient. I think he's one of my favorite guest stars
* JD named his car Maleek! (there's that continuity again!)
* Elliot: "I don't feel weird." JD: "I don't feel weird." Laverne "I feel weird."

2.13 My Philosophy

* Carla: "What are you guys talking about?" Turk: "Nothing. Guy stuff." JD: "Bitches and Hos"
* locker room fantasy was cute
* Ted: "You're a wonderful man."
* Kelso: "Thank you. I think I speak for all the men here when I say 'We'll live'"
* Ted: "Hot damn." and running into the locker when he sees exhibitionist Nancy
* Ted: "Sir, I feel so happy for you I could crap."
* Ted: "I feel I would be more productive if my phone dialed out."
* Elliott and Ted blowing kisses
* LOVED the musical ending - very beautiful and sweet

2.14 My Brother, My Keeper

* JD singing (ALWAYS a favorite)
* Kelso talking about uggos "Sorry." JD: "Why would I take offense to that?" Kelso: "No reason."
* the whole slave exchange was funny
* Janitor: "I don't know why you keep doing these things to me!" LOL

2.15 His Story

* Elliott telling mullet guy to back off
* I love Zach's delivery of the line "Check out these fries!"
* JD: "She's got jungle fever!"
* JD running with those sparklers! so cute!
* Cox's therapist was so funny!
* Doug all sweaty and beat up looking!! LOL
* ***JD singing Kung Fu Fighting and then sequeway into scary music ***
* JD: "Did you climb down an elevator shaft just to torment me?" Janitor: "Sometimes you do what you gotta do."
* I like how Cox's pat on JD's back transfers the voice over

2.16 My Karma

* JD: "..friends and...nurse roberts" Laverne: "Now don't be getting all pissy. You said 'Everyone come, it's on me. You didn't say anything about 'Except Lobster'" JD: "I said no shellfish!"
* getting to see jealous JD again
* Cox: "...she was in her 40th hour of labor." Jordan: "Did you explain to her that it's my room?" Cox: "I started to but then she screamed, grunted and pooped on the table." LOL!! That line killed me!!
* Kelso: "Perry, I just drew this eyebrow in 5 minutes ago."
* Cox: "I beg your pardon there Backdraft?" LOL
* interesting that this ep had a momentary Elliott voice over
* interesting that Cox says the same line Heather Locklear said to him in My First Step "Look at that - I bounced back"
* Jordan throwing something at the OBGYN and the you hear the doctor yell "Ow! My face!" LOL

Checking In

2006-04-17T11:33:00.000-05:00

Checked out my rental property yesterday.

The house is FILTHY inside but thank goodness there isn't any major damage to the house. I'll have to repaint everywhere and scrub the hell out of it. But that's better than giant holes in the wall or something.

The homeless people were still in our shed. They weren't elderly. They looked to be in their late 30's. The man told me that he was waiting on a friend to come back from a holiday trip so they could put the rest of their belongings in her shed. We told them that we've already given them about 5 days and that they could have until Wednesday but that after that we'll have to call the authorities. I told him the name of all the shelters and where they were if they wanted to go. My husband also mentioned to the man that the day labor place is only about a 25 minute walk from the house and he could go there to earn some money. I doubt they're going to do it.

The were watching tv in our shed. Apparently the tenants haven't turned the electricity off and they are running a cord from the utlity pole in the yard.

(reminder to self: yet another thing to do today: call electric company)

I hope you all had a happy easter! We had a great time with the family and watching the kiddies hunt eggs. They are SO cute!

Tales Of An Ordinary Girl

2006-04-12T09:37:00.000-05:00

I love having Ewan McGregor sex dreams. It makes me feel so relaxed. And yet not.

I have not bitten my fingernails in 4 - count 'em 4 days! This is a major acheivement!

I saw on the Today show this morning that the Everglades forest is having a major problem with Burmese Pythons. The park rangers think that people get these exotic snakes for pets not realizing how hard/dangerous they are to keep and then just end up setting them free. Well the freed pythons are reproducing rapidly. Which is normally a good thing in a nature preserve - but you get too much of a certain species breeding too fast and there can be a lot of problems. Like the rabbits in Australia for instance.

The showed pictures of a python eating a crocodile. Yes. I said CROCODILE. The python later RUPTURED from it. Ew. Let me say that again, EW.

I'm very much against exotic animals as pets. It's stupid and dangerous.

No More Stress, Thank You

2006-04-11T13:25:00.000-05:00

If you don't want to hear me whine and complain, then leave.

So, I've blogged about the stress that is me this week; showing my house for sale, maintaining the house, printing flyers, researching putting it into the MLS, staying up late to do our taxes because I haven't had a proper place to work on it and all our mail has been going to Greenville, I've had to file for eviction for our tenants, now I've got to inspect the property, handle the removal of their left-behind items, clean the property, do yard work, place an ad for new tenants, interview prospective tenants, order credit and background checks, select tenants, get leases signed... You see where I'm going with this right?

Suffice it to say, I got plenty to take care of. Then today, a neighbor calls us to tell us that homeless people are living in the shed of our rental property. I had the police go out there and they said it's an elderly people that my tenants were allowing to live in the shed. The officer said they were real nice and that they are gathering their things and trying to get out so I should give them a couple of days if possible.

I will try to give them a couple of days. I don't want to be evil Crystal but if they're not gone in a couple of days - I will have to take action because no one is going to rent it with people squatting in the back yard. And I gotta have the rent $.

I've got to go over tonight and inspect the property. I've asked my brother to go with me so I won't be alone. According to what the neighbor said the tenants left an old beat-up car. I guess I'll have to have that towed off. *sigh*

I heard Bill O'Reilly say something along the lines of "why are people who oppose the illegal immigrants staying labeled as demonic racists?" Well, I'd like to know why people who sympathize with the i.i. and people of other countries/cultures are labled as "un-patriotic".

Don't forget about the other long post I made today.

Fan Forum is still down so you'll have to listen...

2006-04-11T10:27:00.000-05:00

I think Whirlpool's slogan "Inspired by You" is fantastic (from a marketing pov)

I think it's tasteless to air the 911 calls from the 9-11 victims. Those should be private.

I started working my way through my new season 2 of Scrubs dvd last night. I like the selection of special features but they weren't made very well. I tried to watch the commentary on My Case Study - definately in my top 10 fave episodes - and Ken Jenkins was obviously sitting on top of the microphone while Bill Lawrence hung out in the back of the room. So you had to turn the volume waaaaaaaaaay up to hear Bill. Therefore, I was unable to listen.

During our discussions of fave Scrubs episodes over on the forum, I noted that I have always loved My Overkill and a few people have stated that they didn't care for it so much. While listening to the commentary for this episode I thought it was interesting that Bill said, "I worked my butt off on this episode and the studio hated it because they thought it was too artistic but it has turned out to be a fan favorite." Their rule of thumb should be "If Crystal likes it....."

My highlights of the Scrubs eps 2.1 to 2.5 (this will be the moment for non-scrubs fans aka "freaks" to scroll down)

2.1 My Overkill

Colin Hay singing randomly around the hospital with his guitar - LOVE it. ADORE the song!
JD falling on Laverne and her reply "You gonna make this worth my while?"
JD squeezing Todd's love handles "What're these?" Todd: "Uncool! Don't listen mirror Todd!"
Todd: "Ladies, let me go ahead and clear the confusion; Yes, Yes, No, Yes, No annnd Yes if I've been drinking." Laverne: "If you come over here again I will end you." Todd: "I'm changing you to a yes because you're fiesty."

2.2 My Nightingale

probably one of the BEST quotes EVER from this show: Kelso: "Perry." Cox: "Beelzebob"
Turk: "Nurse, can you scratch my nose?" Nurse, "No. I can scratch my nose. Ooh. That feels nice."
Dr. Cox's Jordan/Bat analogy
Janitor getting JD a male date "I'm not gay!"
TED'S BAND!! (this was before they had a name)
JD: "That, my friends, is one nerdy honky."
I like Cox's reaction when he realizes he still wants Jordan. Very nice.

2.3 My Case Study

**Kelso's happy dance down the halls**
****Kelso kicking ass down the halls**** I almost peed myself laughing so hard at this! darn good stunt work too.
Doug (i think they still just called him Nervous Guy then) "Umm...." Kelso: "Proud to have ya on board son."
Kelso kissing the patients ass
Doug crying after Cox yells at him
JD "Uncomfortable!"
Turk "So you lied to us!" Kelso "Hi I'm Bob Kelso! Nice to meet ya!" LOL such classic character development here!
JD's & Cox's moment when JD stands up to him for one of the first times. Great facial expressions.

2.4 My Big Mouth

Bonnie the surgical intern messing with Turk
Turk's "in your face" dance
JD: "Nothing is worse than a ninja. They're masters of every style of combat."

2.5 My New Coat

Kelso: "You couldn't scare a child!" Ted: "Who would want to?"
the entire Ted scene in his office *I LOVE TED!*

Fillion in a chef hat...yummy

2006-04-10T20:59:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the Celebrity Jedi Chefs?

I'm stealing this meme from Shanshu because 1. i have nothing else to talk about and 2. i can't resist the opportunity to talk about me.

1. Who was your first prom date?
same as my second prom date. Michael. Red hair, mouth breather and Momma's boy. He would whine that he wanted to make-out and I'd tell him to be quite because In The Heat of The Night was on. I was a good girlfriend.

2. Who was your first roommate?
Darin. My bestest friend in the whole wide world. Even though he never writes or calls.

3. What alcoholic beverage did you drink when you got drunk the first time?
probably vodka. don't really remember - not because I blacked out or anything just because i don't find that something worth remembering.

4. What was your first job?
I was a hostess at Quincy's Buffet. I was 15.

5. What was your first car?
1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. A hand-me-down of course. My friends hated it because it was out of style but I tell you it drove FANTASTICALLY smooth and had tons of make-out room in the back seat. I remember it had electrical controls for seat adjustment. My Mom who is a couple inches taller than me drove it one day and moved it. The controls then broke. My grandparents said the electrical problems were too expensive to repair so I drove around with a pillow behind my back for a couple of years.
(mine was silver w/ a sunroof).

6. When did you go to your first funeral?
18 - my great aunt.

7. How old were you when you first moved away from your hometown?
i never have.

8. Who was your first grade teacher?
Mrs. Baker. She covered my mouth with duct tape when I wouldn't quit talking during "rest" time.

9. Where did you go on your first airplane ride?
Dallas, TX - commercial jet. a tour of Columbia, SC in a 4 seater.

10. When you snuck out of your house for the first time, who was with you?
i never snuck out.

11. Who was your first Best Friend and are you still friends always?
that would probably be an italian girl named Nicole. We still keep in touch but I wouldn't say we're best friends.

12. Where did you live the first time you moved out of your parents house?
I rented a house with my best friend Darin and a roomie we like to call Prince Valiant.

13. Who is the first person you call when you have a bad day?
It depends. Most of the time I don't want to talk to anyone when I'm having a bad day. If I do, probably my hubby.

14. Who's wedding were you in the first time you were a bridesmaid or a groomsmen?
my friend Stephanie.

15. What is the first thing you do in the morning?
let my dogs outside to pee

16. What was the first concert you ever went to?
Garth Brooks. He puts on a damn good show.

17. First tattoo or first piercing?
i got my ears pierced when I was 5. had my belly button pierced when i was 20.

18. First celebrity crush?
I can't remember who came first. It was either John Scheinder (Bo Duke) or Rick Schroder from Silver Spoons.

19. First crush?
a boy in first grade named Todd. I remember he was really tall. He looked like a 3rd grader.

20. First love?
a jackass who's name isn't worth repeating.

can't...talk...scrubs...

2006-04-08T13:01:00.000-05:00

Ack. Fan Forum has been down for 2 days now.
I don't like the David Boreanaz board there - the mods are too strict (which is why I created my own DB board)- but I adore the Scrubs board and am growing more fond of the Buffy board. I can't stand not being able to chat about my favorite show currently airing - Scrubs.
I picked up season 2 on dvd yesterday. They have great special features - lots of funny interviews and such. I highly recommend.
It's so gray and overcast here today that I just want to crawl into bed and nap cuddled up with hubby and my girls. Unfortunately though, I have a baby shower to go to. And since it's for my upcoming niece - I must make an appearance. Sometimes it's hard not to let yourself be the center of your own attention.

The Blogging World

2006-04-07T10:19:00.000-05:00

I resisted the urge for quite some time to have a livejournal account. I feel some sort of loyalty to Blogger - I guess because this is the first place I came to really enjoy online journaling.

But I have developed so many online friends that share my interests (aka obsessions) and make so much great fanart and they pretty much all use livejournal. SO I'm going to try it out. I named it Tales of An Ordinary Girl as well so to avoid confusion - if I ever mention it - it will be #2 and this (blogger) will be #1.

Bee, Ash & I have decided to give the Divas blog some serious attention. We are going to commit ourselves to writing in it more and try to make it feel like a regular publication (which was our original vision). We each have designated posting dates & themes. Mondays ~ me ~ tv & movies, Wed ~ Ash ~ Home & Health, Sat ~ Bee ~ Music & More. That's not to say we won't also post about other things or that we might dabble in each other's categories - but this will be the main focus. Maybe we should give the place a new look for the new start. Hmm....

I've gotta speed this up now..I gotta pee...

Apparantely Dateline will air a segment on MySpace during their next episode. I don't get the big buzz about that place. How did it become so popular in the last year or so. It's probably been around for awhile but it's like it just took a sudden leap over the last year. I personally don't like it. It's hard to explain why. It's like I almost feel claustraphobic going there - it seems there is too much for the eyes to take in. And it seems cluttered and disorganized. Which it's not I suppose. It just takes a bit more effort to weed through how it works. I think when sites have an overabundance of features it makes it feel that way.

Tales Of An Ordinary Girl

2006-04-05T08:13:00.000-05:00

I haven't been blogging much lately I guess. I promised I was going to really get back into it and start perusing other blogs. But honestly, I've been working a lot more. I haven't made any fanart in a week!! *pauses for moment of reader shock to pass*

I did listen to a David Boreanaz podcast interview with TV Guide the other day (of course I made time for that!) He made me just about fall out of my chair when he said:

"Well, like that we did -- that was a digitally affected shot, but we were actually hoisted up about forty feet in the air, so it was pretty high. And -- and that was more crunching on your nuts than anything else, so that was painful. I mean, y'know, literally... y'know, I'm Italian so that's... that's a big package there to crunch."

and also when he was acting flirty:

TVG: "Yeah, we definitely want to see the wild side."
David: "Yeah, you will, baby."

Katie Couric announced this morning that she will be leaving the Today show and while she was saying how much she was going to miss everyone she pointed out Matt Lauer and said, "And like Dorothy said to the Scarecrow - I think I'm going to miss you most of all." I got choked up. I'm such a girl.

I filed officially for eviction of my tenants yesterday at the magistrate's office. It cost $40! Doesn't that just suck ass? My tenants haven't paid me, so I gotta pay to kick 'em out.
I'm starting to feel strained by all the things I have going on - I've got to handle all this stuff with the rental property (get the tenants out, clean the house, prep it, place ads, interview new tenants, etc..). Meanwhile, I'm conversing with a couple regarding my house for sale. They want to see it again Thursday. The wife REALLY wants it - I know. I just need to see if the husband is as enthusiastic. AND at some point in between I have to file our taxes.

I really wish my husband was here to take some of these duties away from me.

I can't WAIT for this movie!

2006-03-31T12:01:00.000-05:00

Suffering Man's Charity

Been Awhile Since I've Been Tagged

2006-03-31T11:24:00.000-05:00

1. Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 18 and find line 4.
I don't have a book anywhere near me!

2. Stretch your left arm out as far as you can, what do you find?
air

3. What is the last thing you watched on TV?
The Today Show

4. With the exception of the computer, what can you hear?
Jesus Jones - Right Here Right Now

5. When did you last step outside?
when i came into work this morning

6. Before you started this survey, what did you look at?
my email

7. What are you wearing?
(lol @ ashley's answer) jeans, tshirt, loafers

8. Did you dream last night?
of course. everyone dreams every night. it was a bad dream. i dreamed (sexually) about a friend's husband - that i don't even like. :( Sometimes I hate my head.

9. When did you last laugh?
about 30 minutes ago. felt nice. :)

10. What is on the walls of the room you are in?
a Singing In The Rain replica poster.

11. Seen anything weird lately?
yes. yesterday. look at yesterday's post.

12. What do you think of this quiz?
it's a quiz

13. What is the last film you saw?
I think it was The Family Stone. I can't remember too well. Which is such a change from how I used to be.

14. If you turned a multi-millionaire overnight, what would you buy?
a house, gifts for my family, a really really nice computer, something (not sure what) with boston terrier rescue and invest the rest

15. Tell me something about you that I don't know.
i dunno. i'm such an open book.

16. If you could change one thing about the world, regardless of guilt and politics, what would you do?
i'd make much stricter animal cruelty laws and create more positions for a.c. officers

17. Do you like to dance?
sometimes

18. George Bush.
not a fan.

19. Imagine your first child is a girl, what do you call her?
Presley Gray is my first choice. (gray is a family name)

20. Imagine your first child is a boy, what would you call him?
Alexander Serge- we'll call him Xander (these are family names too)

21. Would you ever consider living abroad?
i've thought about it. long term it doesn't really appeal to me. short term - a couple of months - i could.

22. What would you want God to say to you when you reach the pearly gates?
you're home

23. 4 people who must also do this meme.
i think pretty much everyone has already been tagged.

Last night, The Office made me laugh my ass off when Ryan gave this blank stare into the camera after overhearing Dwight & Angela's bizarre conversation. So much said with just a look! It was fabulous.

Supernatural gave a Buffy shoutout! That was awesome!

Not Much To Say Except....

2006-03-30T16:40:00.000-05:00

Did you hear about the guy who found a Louis Vitton bag full of 1 Million dollars worth of jewelry and cash and he RETURNED it? Wow. There are still some wonderfully honest people out there.

I saw the strangest thing today. There is some road construction going on near my office. They have 1 lane closed and there were 2 tractors parked there. Well, in between the two tractors - in the middle of a busy intersection, on the hot ashphalt - this construction worker was doing push-ups. It was seriously weird looking.

I Want I Want I Want

2006-03-29T16:45:00.000-05:00

It seems like I'm always saying "I want". I'm really not that greedy. Well, maybe I am. But I reaaaaaaally want a new computer. My memory is so low in my Gateway that I can't load InDesign, Photoshop or Dreamweaver on it. If I could - and I could play around with them at home, then perhaps I wouldn't spend so much time on them at work instead of doing actual work. Then again, maybe I wouldn't. Maybe I'd just become obsessed with InDesign and sit in front of it until my thighs turned to jelly and my eyeballs become the color of a bloody mary. Not likely though.

A friend requested some Kendra avatars. Behold the first in my series...

This made me think though...for a show so big on continuity - they never mentioned Kendra after season 2. Which is sad to me. It would have been nice to see her as The First in season 7.

Slowly Getting Thru Tuesday

2006-03-28T15:10:00.000-05:00

I've been in and out of working and playing today. Which is pretty good for me. Isn't that pathetic? It's probably completely due to the fact that my David board has been slow.

Kali Rocha who played Halfrek/Cecily on BtVS has a new show coming on tonight that is going to air after Scrubs. I like her very much but this show looks like it's going to suck ass.

There is an animal living in the wall behind my desk. It must be a cozy spot because each year I have an animal there - this is the 3rd year in a row. I've named this one Itchy. I'm fine with Itchy as long as it stays in the wall. The moment it comes out - I'm going to have a problem with him.

Lovely Randomness 2

2006-03-27T14:45:00.000-05:00

Today is Nathan Fillion's birthday. Now, he just needs to come over here and let me give him his present.
*if only*

My David Boreanaz board is going really well. People are signing up fast thanks to a link at a very popular DB source site. I'm having a lot of fun talking to people all over the world. It's amazing the way the Whedonverse connects people.

Interesting casting for HP: Order of the Phoenix. You can find a list at The Snitch

My Mind Is Full

2006-03-23T09:23:00.000-05:00

Momma and I finally talked a couple of weeks ago about her boyfriend. She started the conversation by saying, "I know you're just worried about me, but I need you to trust me to make good decisions for myself." And I told her that I do trust her but that I am also scared because I don't know the guy and I'm worried about her compromising her recovery. We talked awhile over different points and she assured me that she was blunt with him about her recovery coming first. That made me feel a lot better.
I met him this past Sunday. He seemed extremely laid back. Pretty rednecky but nice I guess. He loved my dogs and they seemed to love him right away. My Abby, who never lets people pet her until they've been over at least 10 times, was snuggling all up to him and let him rub her head. I gaped.
Well, last night Momma sorta let it slip that he is living with her. Here comes the scary knot in my stomach again. I knew she'd be like this ~ balls against the wall, all in. It's just moving so fast. She was talking about her irks about living with someone again and I just responded with, "Yeah, it's hard to adjust to living with someone when you're used to living alone." But in my head I was thinking, "Oh Lord. Please don't let her get crushed by this."

I showed my house to another person last night. She seemed to like it very much. She's actually rented a home on my street before so she knows the neighborhood and likes it. She has two kids that go to our schools and so she wants to be in our neighborhood for them. When asked if we had any one else looking at the house I said, "Yes, we have a lady who is checking out her options." So, she said she was going to talk with her mortgage lender and get back to me this week. I'm praying she comes through.

I've had to start eviction procedures on our tenants. It's so un-fun to evict someone but I'm worried about the clean-up and the re-renting portion. I told my husband that he needs to be prepared because it's going to be unbelievably stressful to me to work on selling my house, keeping the lawn mowed, keeping it clean, etc...AND interview prospective tenants, order background/credit checks, keep that lawn mowed, keep that house clean, etc...That's just a whole lot for one person to do while they work full time.

Happy Monday Morning To Ya

2006-03-20T09:14:00.000-05:00

and what a loveeeeeeeely morning it is!

Not really. It's pretty cloudy but that's one of my favorite lines from Singing In The Rain. If you've never seen it - shame on you.

I had a lazy weekend. I did things but I never left the house and never got out of my sweatpants. Bathed all 3 dogs. That was fun. You'd think that it was torture. I don't get it. Lucy will jump in a creek/pond/lake but freaks out in the bathtub.

Friday night I went to Target and bought my Harry Potter dvd. So I watched that twice over the weekend. I was impressed with the bonus features on the dvd. They had deleted scenes which I believe, is a first. I was dissappointed with zero JK Rowling interviews/feedback. It seems they were really trying to make this film stand apart from the books. I liked the interviews with the 3 main characters though and I liked that they were asked what they look forward to acting from books 5 & 6. There were a lot of behind-the-scenes features which were quite cute. Daniel Radcliffe seems like a really funny guy. He said he looks forward to kissing the girl who plays Cho. That made me giggle. And that Robert Pattinson ~ what a cut up! I also got the impression from the behind-the-scenes clips that Mike Newell was really wonderful with the kids.

Watching the film again, I was able to pinpoint the things that bothered me. I believe that the mystery was lacking in this film and that is largely due to the deletion of Ron, Harry & Hermoine discussing the unraveling clues as they usually do. Without their scheming you really don't get a sense that anything unusual is going on. I think that is a huge gap. There is such a disconnected feeling from the first part of the film with the camp scene to the middle part which is all about hormones and tasks to the last part which is back again at the crux of the story.

I still don't think Brendan Gleeson's Mad Eye Moody "look" was right.

I am blown away by Ralph Fiennes performance as Voldemort. I mean, really, he is incredibly fantastic. He was, exactly as I envisioned Voldemort and incredibly scary. I noticed that he had a forked tongue - something I missed in the theater. I wish this scene had played out a bit more and I don't think Radcliffe played the fear quite well enough but it's still a highlight in the series.

I get angry every time I see Gambon's Dumbledore though. I think Harris was a bit too quite and ancient but Gambon is incredibly too aggressive and loud. I imagine Dumbledore as being a middle ground between these two portrayals. I seem to be alone in this though. Most people seem to think that Gambon is perfect as Dumbledore.

But despite these flaws, I love the film. I think it's amazing, the way the kids have improved and I love the small touches that make it funny - such as all the moments with Fred & George. And the reaction of Magonagall when she sees Ron's dress robes (lol). Amos Diggory makes me cry every.single.time.

Lovely Randomness

2006-03-16T14:30:00.000-05:00

I made a post at Divas. I know. Who'dve thunk it? It's been, like, ages.

I'm going to start making more of an effort to check out other/new blogs because this place is DEAD!

I'm also making a resolution (I know it's March - so what!) to start "opening" up to different styles of music and movies - things off the beaten path. I'm going to start trying to listen to all of my friends music suggestions that aren't on the radio and I'm going to rent more foreign films. It's not that I haven't enjoyed these things before, I have. It's just that I haven't seeked them out before. I shall now.

I've had my older brother on my mind a lot today. I haven't talked to him in months. I'm gonna call him and tell him that I love him.

My 1 Year Anniversary

2006-03-15T22:02:00.000-05:00

I just realized that yesterday, March 14th was my 1 year Blogger Anniversary! I cannot believe that I have maintained a blog for an entire year of my life. I've decided to repost my very first post:

My List of Hotties:
My husband ; I-get-to-actually-have-it hottie
David Boreanaz ;Grraarr hottie
Zach Braff ; Simply Perfect hottie
Ewan McGregor ; Dishelved hottie
Tom Welling ; Save Me hottie
Harry Connick Jr ; Please-Sing-To-Me hottie
Clive Owen ; Should-Be-The-Next-Bond hottie
Conan O'Brien; Super-Nerdy Hottie
Topher Grace
Owen Wilson
Jude Law
Wilmer Valderama
Christopher Kennedy Masterson
Christian Bale
Matthew McConaghey
Tobey Maguire
Denis Leary
Matthew Fox
Jason Isaac
Breckin Meyer
Jeremy Sisto
Jim Carrey

Old/Dead Hotties:
Elvis Presley
Cary Grant
Gene Kelly
Paul Newman

Another New One

2006-03-15T18:17:00.000-05:00

this one I can play with a bit more and I can develop more of my own artwork for the background.

James Blunt

2006-03-15T09:53:00.000-05:00

I had heard the song You're Beautiful and thought it was nice.

But I caught the video for the first time a couple of weeks ago. So extremely simple. Just James Blunt looking directly into the camera and undressing very slowly throughtout the song.

I don't know why, but I found him utterly captivating. Something about the simple performance was just brilliant.

I've since seen him perform on Ellen. Again I found him extremely compelling. I'm not sure why. I think he's cute but not gorgeous. But I find I can't tear my eyes away when he's singing.

He seems to exude a vulnerability I guess, that I find appealing.

BTW, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THAT EVERYONE VIEW THE BLOG IN MOZILLA BECAUSE IE IS A PIECE OF CRAP AND WON'T DISPLAY THE TEMPLATE RIGHT.