Sarcasm & Cynicism...served up by Single Grl

Celebrities and What They Do With Their Fame & Power

2009-03-11T09:32:00.003-04:00

So here we go with another blog about celebrities this month. It seems that they're really getting under my skin this month. First with (idiot-not-a-man-but-a-slug) Chris Brown, now with two more celebrities. One whom I adore(d) and thought was oh-so-sexy, the other who I just thought was a pain in the ass. I'm talking about Joe Perry and Oprah Winfrey.

When you become a celebrity....you have a lot to contend with. You've scads of adoring fans, more money than you really should even have, and of course more influence on the public that anyone should ever have. Because...you know...most of the public follows by example, and doesn't think for themselves. Example: Paris Hilton has a platoon of Chihuahuas...so everyone goes out to buy the same breed....forgoing pets in shelters who need good homes. Every once in awhile, you'll have a celebrity who actually uses their fame, voice and popularity for good and helping mankind....see Brad Pitt, Bono, Gary Cooper, which then leads to bringing awareness to the public and sparking people to help their fellow man or cause.

But it broke my heart and even sickened me when my very own (ok, maybe he's not mine....but I was so enamored by him) Joe Perry decided to list some personal items on e-bay for an auction. Joe Perry decided to sell a Gibson amp which he had used to record some of Aerosmith's earlier albums, as well as Just Push Play, and had used it on tour as well. This item was not in pristine condition, having some nics which added to the charm and personality of the amp. Not only did the group's web site: aeroforceone.com send out messages about 'being able to buy one of Joe Perry's amp's' but it was being auctioned!I went right to e-bay, knowing there was no way I could bid on it...but wondering what charity this item was helping out. Okay people...sit down for this one: the 'charity' that the proceeds of the amp auction was going to was JOE PERRY'S OWN POCKETS.Joe is not selling it to help those less fortunate than him, or no pun intended, the average joe. He was selling the Gibson amp for his own personal gain. Because, you know...he don't have enough money. And with the econonmy inthe state it is, perhaps the $3,400.00 at which the auction ended at is his mad money. Shame on you Joe....for not just selling the item, but auctioning it....and auctioning it for his own gain. You know what? You're not as good looking to me as you once were, and age has nothing to do with it. Maybe you should take a look at Steven Tyler's actions and follow in his footsteps. Learn from Steven about donating your items to charity.

Oprah Winfrey is my new hero. At least for the remainder of the month. I had thought her to be a busy-body, know-it-all who just talked to hear her own voice. I never thought her sincere. But I am very proud of her, and applaude her for vocalizing her disgust of the Chris Brown actions, and trying to set Rihanna and all women straight about it never being okay for a man (or anyone for that matter) to hit and hurt you. Oprah has spoken on national televison from the beginning of this Chris Brown/Rihanna debacle about domestic abuse, quoting the facts about repeat offenders, and offering Rihanna help as well as pleading with her to leave him. Oprah has even swore that Chris Brown would never be a guest on her program. Oprah is teaming up with Tyra Banks to do a special show in regards to domestic violence and bringing awareness to women to run away from anyone who lays hands on you in anger. Kudos Oprah.....you are finally using your celebrity, not for your own personal image...but to help women in the world who suffer physical abuse and trying to reach out a friendly hand to Rihanna. Now if only Tina Turner would try to reach out and open her eyes...maybe Rihanna will live a successful life too.

Meme wrap-up for 2008

2009-02-27T12:01:00.002-05:00

1. What did you do in 2008 that you'd never done before?
Went on a mini-vacation completely by MYSELF...wound up sleeping in a room full of complete strangers, made friends on said trip and had a blast.

2. Did you keep your new year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
Nope, and it sucks. I am just not motivated.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
No.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Nope....thank God.

5. What countries did you visit?
As usual....NONE.

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
More self confidance (which I am obtaining), financial stability, and a man. Not a boy...but a REAL man.

7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
March 15th, as that was the day we got Lola. (See Lola-Palooza)

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Making new friends on my own.

9. What was your biggest failure?
Not being able to let go of stuff.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
LOL....chronic sinus issues, IBS w/ constipation, anxiety.

11. What was the best thing you bought?
My I-Pod Nano, my laptop.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
Bono's, my mother's.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Live SciFi. Trying to swindle people out of their money.

14. Where did most of your money go?
Bills, pets, anything and everything.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Picking up Lola, getting in to my paranormal investigative group.

16. What song will always remind you of 2008?
'So What' by Pink

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:a) happier or sadder? Sadderb) thinner or fatter? fatter.c) richer or poorer? Poorer.

18. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Saving more money...traveling more.

19. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Stressing out.

20. How did you spend Christmas?
With mom and Id a....it was MUCH BETTER in 2008, than in 2007.

21. Did you fall in love in 2008?
*Sigh* No.

22. What was your favorite TV program?
I'm sticking with my answers as always: SuperNatural, Grey's Antanomy, TRUEBLOOD!!!

23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I hate to say it, but yeah....I do.
24. What was the best book you read?
'To Kill A MockingBird', and also 'Twilight'!!!

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Blue October! LOVE THEM!!! Just got tickets to see them in concert.

26. What did you want and get?
Confirmation of love and being watched over by two important people in my life.

27. What did you want and not get?
To go to Ireland.

28. What was your favorite film of this year?
Too many seen to remember. But Probably Iron Man, and TWILIGHT

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
Went to dance class, had b-day cake at home. The next night we went to dinner in Port Jefferson. I had turned 32.

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Being able to go to Ireland.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
Comfort. it's all about comfort.

32. What kept you sane?
My cats. It may sound silly, but my cats know my every mood and emotion even if I do not voice it. ....they know. 2008 was a crying year for me, and the cats were there to comfort all the way through.

33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Colin Farrell! Bono! Actually Brad Pitt for helping the people in New Orleans.

34. What political issue stirred you the most?
Having a black man be a candidate for the presidant.

35. Who did you miss?
My uncle. A special someone who lives in Florida. (Actually 2 in Florida)

36. Who was the best new person you met?
My friend Liz. She is a trooper, hystrical....kind, and someone I look up to.

37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
Speak up for yourself.

38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.'So so what? I'm still a rock star. I've got my rock moves...and I don't need you. And guess what? I'm having more fun. Now that you're gone. Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na.'

My heart breaks for Rihanna

2009-02-11T08:49:00.002-05:00

I am completely disgusted with the whole Rihanna/Chris Brown situation that is in the media. I have been a fan of Rihanna for a few years, think she is a beautiful young woman inside and out. As for Chris Brown, I don't know too much about him, other than he's in the music industry (and now an 'alleged' woman beater.)

Domestic violence is a horrible crime and is also almost always an endless cycle which moves from generation to generation. It is NEVER okay to hurt someone, regardless of hurting them with fists or words. I implore people that if you are a victim of domestic abuse to seek help! And know that if you're in a 'loving relationship' with someone who is hurting you, they are NOT going to change, and they are NOT sorry for hurting you. They will apologize afterwards, promise it will never happen again, and even try to make you 'see how it was your fault they hurt you.' But it is NEVER excusable, nor is it EVER your fault. Get help, and get out of the relationship.

My heart breaks for Rihanna, she is a kind woman who does much charrity work, has a foundation and went out on a mission to find a bone marrow match for a complete stranger. She has her life ahead of her. I am disappointed in Chris Brown.....by his actions, he has taught the youth that it is okay to use their fists. He has broken the hope of those less fortunate of making themselves better, those who looked up to Chris.

Chris Brown has lost several endorsments, and gigs due to the charges and investigation brought against him. And I AM GLAD. I think it is about time that a celebrity is held accountable for their actions. I hope that he learns from his mistake, and gets the counciling that he may need to heal from the troubles of his youth. I also hope to God that Rihanna moves on in her life, and away from Chris.

http://perezhilton.com/category/rihanna/

2008-11-20T23:45:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love my 'kids'. Pooka and Cro..i have been such a joy to have, I can't believe it's been six years they're a part of my family. Pooka is the macho-yet-mamma's-boy cat, and Cro..i is just a little-lump-of-love since day one. And then there's Lola...the 10-month pain-in-the-arse-puggle-pup who is so cute you just gotta love her. And they each have their own personalities which are so distinct...I could tell you endless stories until you beg me to stop.

And if you have been following my blog on blogger (which granted I hadn't updated in forever) or read some of my blogs here, you'll know that Pooka and Cro..i love to give the gifts of love that only devouted house kittens could give. You know it.....a mouse-gift. It seems like a lot of time has passed since a field mouse has unfortunatly found its way in to our home, but tonight Pooka and Cro..i showed they've still got what it takes. A lot of people also seem skeptical when we tell them how Pooka and Lola really are best friends. I mean, he lets her chew on his ears, and they play in the back yard together. Well, tonight he solidified it in an amazing act, and I wish I had a camera near by to capture it.

This morning Lola was a bit under the weather, having up-chucked some phlegm and having a case of the snizzles. We're blessed to have a dog with allergies....and Ida had kept a close eye on her during the day to make sure she (Lola) wasn't getting any sicker...which she wasn't. By the time I got home from work, Lola was a bundle of energy and her playful self. Per our nightly ritual...we were all hanging out in the family room watching Grey's Anatonmy, and Lola was curled at Ida's feet snoring not so softly...Pooka overhead dosing as well on the back of the couch. As we watched tv, Cro..i was making a commotion scratching Lola's wee papers (which were clean) and I kept telling her to knock it off. Ahhhhh, how my motherly instincts were not kicking in...but perhaps that had something to do with watching 'McDreamy' and 'McSteamy'.
Pooka eventually hopped off the back of the couch, and then there was no distracting noises of scuffles or papers or anything. Ida and Lola's snores filled the background instead. A little more time passes, and who come strolling around the side of the couch, looking like a little kid wanting to surprise a loved one but my boy Pooka. He looks at my mother, then glances at me with a look on his face like "ssshhhh, don't spoil my surprise." Then he proceeds to take a few steps past us, towards Lola...heading SPECIFICALLY towards Lola, with a clump of gray dust on his chin. I was laughing at his expression, and about to tell my mother to get the clump of dust off his mouth when I noticed that this clump of dust had little ears, and little legs, and a body and head. POOKA CAUGHT A MOUSE AN WAS BRINGING IT TO LOLA!!!

When he realized he was busted for being so darn cute...he high-tailed it back around the couch, and him and his sister began to play with the mouse. A mouse which was not dead! Well, call me cruel...but I wasn't coming between my little mc-kittens and their kill (not that I wanted them to kill the mouse either.) But they were only doing their job. IS this mouse still alive? I dunno, I've come upstairs to report to all of you how cute Pooka (and Cro..i.....and Lola) is. Because once mom and I were gushing over Pooka's gift for Lola, Lola woke up and was hanging over the back of the couch, wanting her gift.

But I also can't help but wonder, as Thanksgiving is almost upon us:
(A) Did Pooka and Cro..i intend to give Lola the mouse as a gift, to make her feel better after feeling icky this morning?
(B) Did Pooka intend to try and scare Lola with a mouse gift as little boys are known to do to little girls?
(C) Did Pooka and Cro..i intend for the mouse to be their Thanksgiving dinner, and was bringing it to us to prepare for them?

2008-09-06T11:13:00.001-04:00

So I am so disgusted with myself. I am also saddingly shocked with how accurate the horror movie writers and industry make characters and storyline plots. Let me clarify.
You know how when you're watching a horror movie, and the climatic or spooky music is building up, so you know something BAD is going to happen? And there's the dumb character who is being victimized or is about to become the next causality because they hear a noise and go to check it out....and there's Jason/Leather-Face/zombies/(insert your own horror movie bad-guy) just lurking around the corner, waiting for the victim to be stupid enough to head their way to see what made the noise? Then they spring out and kill said dumb character.

Meanwhile you're watching the movie saying out loud: 'Dumb ass, what is wrong with you? Go the other way...it's so obvious that you're about to get mutilated! If that was me, my ass would have been so outta there.' And you know what....you're feeling superior because you would never be as dumb as that person if the shoe was on the other foot and this was a real scenario. *RAISES HAND* I've been the one all the time pointing out the obvious and making my snide little comments when watching the horror movies. I used to pride myself on thinking that I'd be the smart one, to make it through the entire movie, in one piece- being able to live happily ever after with Freddie Prinze Jr's character.

But I was wrong! Wrong I tell you! And I am smacking myself in the head over the fact that I would be one of these dumb characters who get bumped off. It makes me cringe. Last night we went to the diner for dinner: mom, Ida and myself. Before we ate, I decided to go to the restroom. Mind you the restroom has two stalls. So as I'm washing my hands, I hear a noise. No, not that kind of noise....it sounded like the spool of toilet tissue being unfurled from the roller. But it didn't sound like it was coming from the stall next to the one I just vacated. So there I am rinsing my hands, pondering the noise, and I hear it again...this time longer, and almost like it's coming through the wall. Then I figure it is coming through the wall...but I wasn't sure. So I turn around and look at the floor to see if there are feet in the stall which is next to the one I was in. NO FEET. I take a step closer and kinda peer through the crack of the door, because the door is slightly ajar.

AND THEN I FREEZE. Because I realize how stupid I am! I realize that this is a classic horror movie scene where the dumb character gets killed. (How many times have I watched 'Scream' when the killer is in the bathroom perched on the toilet seat and Sidney sees the feet lower themselves to the floor). This is the classic horror movie scene where the DUMB CHARACTER hears a suspicious noise, goes to investigate it INSTEAD of turning and running the other way, and gets hacked to pieces!!! I also realized that the stall was indeed empty and the noise was from the men's restroom. But I left the restroom to go back to my table laughing to myself as well as chastising myself for being dumb enough.

So Hollywood, keep churning out those horror movies. I'll keep watching, and will try to not make fun of the 'dumb characters' who so easily get themselves bumped off. Because I'd be one too.

Pooka & Lola truly partners in crime!

2008-09-03T21:33:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time, there were these two adorable little kittens. They were so loving, and jovial, and not at all cold-blooded killers of things such as mice, or fish, or anything that had blood runnng through their veins.These cute, cuddly kittens used to stalk dust, play with their kitty toys, and eat goodies galore. Just for the sake of it, we'll call these cute, sweet, NICE kitties Pooka and Cro`i. (What a coincodince, huh?)
Well, over the years these two NICE house kitties, Pooka and Cro`i shared with their family, they grew in to unique furballs of love. Cro`i would oogle Derek Jeter whenever he was on the tv...and Pooka became such a mamma's boy. If a pet fish was brought in to the house they never thought to try and HURT the fishy. In fact once Pooka stuck his paw in the water and got skeeved out. But as they grew, it was clear that they wondered what was outside the warm house they cohabitated in. To keep them safe, and give them a sense of adventure these sweet, NICE kitties were allowed to venture in to play in the garage...instead of being allowed in to the open air of the yard.
AND that's where the trouble started. These two kitties who just so happen to have the name Pooka and Cro`i began to change. From time to time, especially in bad weather (winter) they'd find these little furry poachers, who skittered around...looking very much like their toy mice. The kitties morphed themselves in to sleek, swift, fierce hunters. Proud to show off their kill, even though their family (more importantly their mother-who we'll call Rose) would be appalled. But the family understood the nature of cats, and even when these kitties deposited a mutilated mouse in her bed, on Egyptian cotten sheets.
But as if this tale was not getting gruesome enough, the tale gets even darker. A puppy was brough in to this little family...and soon won over the hearts of all who lived under the roof...even the kittens who now had a dark side. And although the puppy, who just to keep consistant, we'll call her Lola was being house broken...and allowed to go outside...the cats were not. And the cats didn't understand why. So over the course of a few months...the cats known as Pooka was allowed to play in the back yard...because (a) he was Lola's best friend and they played together...and (b) because he would try and cry all night to get out if he didn't have his way.
The other day when the family came home...they spooted Pooka outside, looking like he was going to make a mad dash out of the yard. Pooka's mother had a panic and went running towards him. But Pooka was not trying to escape. And he gave his mother a dirty look, as his intended victim...a little finch flew off. Pooka's muscles slowly unbunched and he went in the house. The family laughed it off, glad that the little bird lived to see another day. Estatic to know their darling Pooka's paws were unbloodied.
But oh no, Pooka would not be thwarted. Pooka's need for a hunt was overwhelming. Many times since July...he was foiled when he'd go to innocently 'visit' the new gold fish named Jimmy Buffett. At night he slept so soundly...his mother thought he was a little furry saint. But that was when he was plotting it all out. He waited until no one susspected anything...would never suspect his accomplise.
Pooka mother and grandmother had been out running errands and returned home wondering what they would have for dinner. It was then that they heard Pooka's aunt yelling 'Let me wash your mouth...let me wash your mouth' for some odd reason. When they entered the home...there was Lola...having her face scrubbed clean. The mother and grandmother innocently asked what was going on- and here's where our tale ends in a murder most fowl (intentional mis-spelling.)
Pooka got to go on his hunting expaditon. He hunted in his own back yard...stalking a BIG black bird. He solicited his sister Lola's assistance in the hiding of the body...so no one would be the wiser. However Lola could not resist...so proud to be part of a secret Pooka entrusted her with. Pooka chosing Lola over Cro`i. Lola then brough her trophy in to the house and as she watched tv began to gnaw and chew on her black bird quietly. Due to her own oblivion, and not answering her aunt's calls for her...did she ignite suspission and had Aunt Ida come looking for her. And THAT'S when Ida discovered the horrid truth! Pooka and Lola are now murderers and partners in crime. Pooka did the hunting, and Lola the stashing. And our sweet little kitty will never be the same again.
So those of you who own pets. Wether they be cats or dogs or some of each. Don't put anything past them. Because you never know when your sweet and innocent furball will cross over to the dark side.

Crappy Day

2008-08-09T09:51:00.001-04:00

I should have known this was coming....something crappy. My life has been going so good, and I've been quite happy the past few months. But yesterday crappiness crept in to my life from all different angels, and I should have realized it was long overdue. So if I've done something to piss off the universe, I'm sorry. But I like being happy, can I have my nice life back?
Yesterday morning started with me dragging my butt to get to work (as usual.) So I went down to feed the puppy-head, and get food for the mckittens. Never did I hear Ida ask me to open the back door for the dog on my way up to get dressed. Well, the dog had an accident in the house, Ida had to clean it and was pissed at me. I, in turn got my back up and yelled at her before leaving for work. On my way home from work I called the house leaving Ida a message asking if she wanted to get something to eat. She was avoiding my call, and when I got home, still wasn't talking to me. Crappy day.So I went up and took a nap.

During yesterday morning, I called a co-worker to ask them a question, and we wound up talking about a happy hour which took place the night before for a friend of ours. I almost went to it, but at the last minute decided not to. Well, I asked who went to the happy hour, and she ran down the list of attendees...saving a certain name for last. She then went on to tell me that she met the dickheads 'new' 'old' girlfriend....as in he has been with her before and now they're back together. Which my response to her was 'good, they deserve one another.' But I am so irked about this! And I don't know why. I guess it's because I wanted to be the one to be able to flaunt someone in his face? Saying 'ha- I didn't pine for you!' I guess it's because he just dropped me without any closure. One day everything was hunky-dory, the next I was lucky if I even got a 'hello' from him. Dickhead was not mature in the least, saying 'hey I want to move on.' And lastly, I guess it's because he lied to me. As in, never saying 'look, me and my ex....we've got history. We always find our way back to one another, so I don't know if this thing between you and me is a fling or can be more.' I mean dickhead and his 'new' 'old' girlfriend have been dating on and off for 4 years! And he brought her to a happy hour, which I could have been at. I mean, that would have been shock and a slap in the face for me to meet her with no warning. This is the biggest lie he ever pulled on me, which also erases any nice thoughts I have of dickhead, or any fond memories of our time together. I honestly don't want him back, nor did I. But I am irked about this, and am really unclear why. Crappy day.

And lastly I was in a MINOR car accident tonight. I was supposed to go to the Zappa Plays Zappa concert, in Westbury. On my way to meet a friend and his girlfriend for dinner, the rain was coming down like I've never seen it come down. The traffic on the highway was slowing, so to avoid a truck which spun out and hit the wall, and as I slowed, I fish-tailed, and rear-ended the car in front of me. In turn, I was hit from behind by a white car. My airbags deployed (nasty odor) and I was shocked. Undoing my seat belt, I got out to check the driver in front of me, and realized there was some damage, but not tons. Five squad cars arrived on the scene, and two officers were very nice. One squad car left, and two cars handled the lady I hit, while two attended me. The white car who hit me had snuck off, and being that I was in shock, didn't think to mention it to the cops. Due to my airbags deploying, the Santa Fe wouldn't start (as safety mechanism) and I couldn't find the kill switch, so I could move the car (as it was dead.) So the cops pushed me to the side, and a tow truck had to bring me to an impound yard. So needless to say, I missed the concert. Needless to say, I now have to rent a car, and see how long I'll be without my truck. My beautiful Santa Fe, which I will now not turn in for anything. No one was hurt badly in my accident, thank God...but I am sore and stiff. So say it with me....crappy day.

And to the universe, I've had my fill of crappiness. Can I have some nice, quiet, happy now?

Summer movies and such

2008-07-17T13:54:00.011-04:00

Well, as usual, I am procrastinating with the vacation blog, and honestly it is because I can't find the 15 minutes it will take for me to share the 4th of July recap and photos. Plus everyone is 'howling' for Lola updates, so the pooch with the personality had to update her blog first. If you know me personally, or know me through my blog....you know I love movies. Any and all genre...let me submerge myself in the entertainment.

This summer season has been awesome for movie fans.....and it was every weekend in May that I was in the theater. I can say the only flick I did not LOVE (but I thought was watchable) was prince Caspian. But what about those days or nights when you're home and need a good summer flick to keep you from zoning out? These are always my go-to movies, especially in the summer months:

When a gigantic great white shark begins to menace the small island community of Amity, a police chief, a marine scientist and grizzled fisherman set out to stop it.

Big-hearted Chicago family man Chet has brought his family to a lakeside resort area, and although his wife and kids aren't quite as excited as he is, Chet has high hopes for the vacation. However, his optimism is sabotaged when his obnoxious brother-in-law Roman drops in unexpectedly, along with his snooty, strange family. Chet and his family try to stay open-minded, but they find it difficult to relax and enjoy themselves because of the constant annoyance of Roman's presence

They perform for royalty and entertain millions the world over. But now, they're making a movie.
You say you want a revolution?
They Don't Just Sing!
Five girls. Five days. One rocking world!

The year is 1936. A professor who studies archeology named Indiana Jones is venturing in the jungles in South America searching for a golden statue. Unfortunately, he sets off a deadly trap doing so, miraculously, he escapes. Then, Jones hears from a museum curator named Marcus Brody about a biblical artifact called The Ark of the Covenant, which can hold the key to humanly existence. Jones has to venture to vast places such as Nepal and Egypt to find this artifact. However, he will have to fight his enemy Renee Belloq and a band of Nazis in order to reach it.

A comedy about one nice guy who gets pushed too far.
He's a man of peace in a savage land... Suburbia.
He's a stranger in an even stranger land... Suburbia
Life In The Burbs Will Never Be The Same Again!

"The Wedding Date" centers around Kat Ellis (Messing), who returns to her parents' London home for her sister's wedding. Afraid of confronting her ex-fiancé, who dumped her two years before, she hires a top-drawer male escort (Mulroney) to pose as her new boyfriend.

What you can't see won't hurt you... it'll kill you!
Lock your doors. Bolt your windows. There's something in THE FOG!
When the fog rolls in... the terror begins!
It is night. It is cold. It is coming.

Or you even have:In Antonio Island, Oregon, the dwellers are celebrating the anniversary of the foundation of the seaside town and the mayor has built the statues of the founders: Wayne, Castle, Williams and Malone. The descendant Nick Castle owns the Castle & Son, a fishing charter company, using his vessel Seagrass for tourism in the Antonio Bay. When his girlfriend Elizabeth Williams returns to the island, coincidentally a huge fog appears with weird noises and killing locals. When Elizabeth slips in Nick's boathouse and falls in the sea, she finds an 1871 journal written by a man called Blake, who bought half the island for his leper people to build a town for them to live. While sailing in the clipper ship Elizabeth Dane, bringing his community to Antonio Island, Blake is betrayed by Wayne, Castle, Williams and Malone. The quartet locks Blake and his friends in the vessel, steals their money and possessions and fires the ship, killing them. In the present days, the ghosts of Blake and his crew are seeking for revenge on the descendants of the criminals

Spider....spider...go away

2008-07-01T09:54:00.003-04:00

In case I never told anyone, I HATE bugs. HATE THEM....as in I don't care if they're a 'good' bug or a 'bad' bug. They give me the heebie-jeebies. Spiders especially. To this day whenever I see a spider I will freeze and scream bloody murder until I have someone rescue me from the impending doom of the spider. Which of course means SQUISH AND FLUSH (SOMETIMES DOUBLE FLUSH) so it is not going to return.

So you can imagine my chagrin and horror as I get a call from a co-worker this morning telling me about the MASSIVE, HAIRY ARACHNOID sitting outside the office and the non-cooperation of MALE co-workers to dispose of this menace. You can imagine my shock when another coworker E-MAILED ME THE PHOTO of this menace.

Anyway, in this horror and during the terror-reign of said

arachnoid (at right) this is the e-mails shared between Claire and myself. Please note this insect is still at large and FREAKING us out.

The e-mail:

Claire:There's a great big giant spider in the hallway. If you zoom in, you can appreciate the effect.

Me; WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?

WHY ARE YOU TAKING PICTURES OF THAT THING?

AND MORE IMPORTANTLY WHY ARE YOU SENDING ME THESE PHOTOS? I AM AFRAID OF SPIDERS!

Claire: So am I! BUT NOW IT'S MISSING. MISSING!!!!

Me: WEEEELLLLLLLLLLL,

WHY DIDN'T SOMEONE FROM YOUR DEPT KILL IT WHEN IT WAS THERE?????

NOW IT IS ROAMING FREELY IN THE BUILDING ABLE TO TERRORIZE INNOCENT PEOPLE.

AND WHY ARE YOU TAKING PHOTOS OF IT? SHOULD WE POST THEM IN THE BUILDING AS MISSING? I WONDER IF IT IS RADIO ACTIVE. (LIKE YOU KNOW…AS IN SPIDER MAN?)

Claire: I like to take pictures of freaks of nature. You know, for posterity. We didn't kill it because we would have needed a shovel. You're right - now it's roaming freely, planning its attack in taking over the building. and eating all of our faces.

So if anyone would like come to our office, hunt wrangle and kill this 8-legged freak, please feel free. Because now I'm envisioning this thing launching from the ground or ceiling, and chewing our faces off.

Cro`i following in her birth mother's footsteps?

2008-06-10T16:08:00.002-04:00

The animal world is interesting- and today when a friend of mine and i were goofing around via e-mail, the topic came up about Siamese (female) cats being extra horny, and wanting THE SEX even after they are altered.

I state this because ever since I adopted Pooka and Cro`i, the mc-kittens, we often pondered why Pooka and Cro`i had totally different markings. My mom often wondered if maybe they were not really litter mates, but there is a tenderness and caring between them, so I didn't pay any heed to it. Because whether it be in the animal kingdom or the human world, you can't fake love and caring.

Anyway, read the blurb I have found on-line about (female) cats and their reproduction methods. And it also explains why Pooka and Cro`i look totally different. And it also explains why Cro`i loves all the HOT men: Colin Farrell, Johnny Depp, Derek Jeter. And why she wants to escape for kitty lovin'.

Tip 90 - Cat sex - Are cats promiscuous
Many people view cats especially female cats as sexually promiscuous creatures. One of the reasons for this notion is that when female cats are in heat they call out to let males know that they are in heat. They also mate frequently and often mate with different males that have fought with each other to win mating rights. The resulting litter of kittens may therefore have been sired by different males which can account for litter mates that look surprisingly different from one another. This reinforces our notion of their promiscuity and is classic anthropomorphic thinking. (The assigning of human attributes to non-humans)

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY TODAY!

2008-06-03T15:45:00.003-04:00

Here it is again....June 3rd. Another year gone by.....another year older. Yep, it's my birthday today. The BIG 3-2. See that, I'm not even sad, upset or annoyed to admit it. In fact I'm embracing my birthday this year. Are you scared at my chirpiness? Do you find yourself concerned that I've been abducted by aliens, since I am not upset that it's my birthday?

Don't be! Because I know that good things are coming my way. (No, I have not joined a cult and have taken to drinking the kool-aid.) With age brings wisdom, brings a sense of self. And since last week I have been at peace, and feel like I am on the cusp of good news. What good news? Or why am I feeling like this? I have no idea. Do I have less stress from work, nope. But the only thing I can think of is that with age comes clarity. I feel loved.....unconditional love. By old friends, by new friends, and by certain family.

This morning I woke up with my 'kids' camped out on the bed with me. Pooka was on the blankie...and Cro`i was asleep on the pillow next to me. As always, that brought a smile to my face. Mom came in to wake me up and had two beautiful cards for me. (1) from 'my kids', and (1) from her. By the time I went downstairs, Lola and Ida were greeting me with birthday joy. I had a ton of birthday wishes on my myspace page too. And it only confirmed for me how fortunate I am to have the people in my life that I do. When I entered my office this morning, I was graced with flowers on my desk, and some small gifts and beautiful cards. A friend bought me coffee and lunch for my birthday too. I think I got teary-eyed about five times today. Must be a sign of my maturity ro old-age.

I have my faith. So with all that being said I am going to share with you some wisdom. I hope that you already know some of this, but it's always nice to be reminded. Here it goes:

Life is not about the destination, but the journey. Yes you will have ups and downs through-out your life. Don't worry about how hard and loud you laugh....just laugh.
If you feel like crying- go ahead. Don't be ashamed to do so. Crying is therapeutic. But don't drown in sorrow, because things will get better.
Birthdays are NOT about what you get as gifts. Birthdays are about being able to celebrate with friends and family. A gift isn't something something you can touch with your hand. It's counting those you love and who love you. It's a memory you can smile back on or a joke you can share with someone special.
Don't let someone knock your interest or likes. As long as you're not hurting anyone, and enjoy what you're doing, then enjoy it.

What to do when you're the 'grown-up'

2008-05-29T16:39:00.002-04:00

So here I go, throwing a pity party for myself. I know it, and I'm sure I'll be told by certain friends what I 'NEED' to do. But you know, with financial issues, and feelings of obligations doing 'what needs to be done' and 'knowing what should be done' are two different things. Many times in the past I have griped about family stuff, and mainly my problems with my mom. And although we have our ups and downs mom and me, I have to say we're becoming one another's support system and allies due to the living situation we're in.

You see, I live with mom and her sister. We're pretty much like the 'Golden Girls' with my mother probably being 'Sophia', me being 'Blanch' and my aunt....well although I'd love to say she's the 'Dorothy' of the trio, I think she's more of the 'Rose'. And not in a good way. My aunt is retired, forced to retire earlier than expected because her company went out of business. And continued to be in retirement because she has difficulty moving around. Doctors have proclaimed her to be a 'medical mystery' on more than one occasion. So that means that it is my mother and me supporting the house and my aunt. To put it bluntly, we live paycheck to paycheck...and struggle to keep a house that we really can't afford. It is VERY EXHAUSTING.

But that's the least of our worries. Because over the past couple of years, as my aunt's disability becomes more pronounced, she has become more and more argumentative. She does not focus on conversations. She has become to not identify or notice things she is looking for (and again becomes argumentative) when she can't 'find them.' For example: if she goes in the fridge to get milk, she does not see the milk. Mind you the milk is right in front of her, not hidden behind anything else. And then she gets annoyed because 'we do not have any milk'. So I will get up and show her the milk, and she will insist that it wasn't there two minutes ago.

My aunt refuses to go to the doctor. And it is very upsetting to see her in this state. She has her good moments and her 'not-so-good' moments. This past Saturday she went to a seminar with me, and had a blast. The time we were together was like times from the past. It's not fair....on any levels. Last week my mom had gone away...and it was just Ida and myself and I never wanted my mom home more than then. I fear that my aunt has the beginnings of dementia.

Fun Facts: Gemini

2008-05-21T10:54:00.002-04:00

Time to learn as much as you can about: Gemini

Versatility is a great keyword for this dual sign. Expressive and quick-witted, the Gemini presents two distinctive sides to his or her personality, and you can never be sure with which one you're going to come face-to-face. On one hand, the Gemini can be outgoing, flirtatious, communicative, and ready for fun, fun, fun. Yet when the other twin is present, you can find this air sign contemplative, serious, restless, and even indecisive. Both twins are able to adapt to life's circumstances well, making them wonderful people to know. Things are never boring when a Gemini is on the scene. Friends and FamilyGeminians are social and love spending time with friends and family. There will be times when this outgoing sign would want to go bungee jumping, and there will be times when sitting at home playing cards will suit them. Either way, friends are plentiful.

Those who can match the Geminian intellect and love of variety will go the distance. One quality they seek out in others is communication. The Gemini loves to talk and gain insight from others. Without a clear flow of talk, the Gemini will lose interest pretty quick. Family is important, especially those of like mind. Friendship with siblings is quite common for the Geminian, and time spent together is cherished. Meeting responsibilities with family can pose a challenge at times, but almost always, the Geminian comes through. Career and MoneyThe best-suited careers for a Gemini are those that stimulate the intellect. "I think" is the key phrase for this sign. Geminians are inventive and often literary. It's important that the work they commit themselves to doing is dynamic and challenging so boredom doesn't set in. Careers as a teacher, debater, reporter, writer, preacher, or lawyer are all well-suited to this sign. Any platform that gives the Geminian room to talk is best! A sales profession is another excellent choice. You can expect to see many tools for communication around this sign, such as PDAs, laptops, and cell phones. Generating new ideas and problem solving are other areas where the Geminian will shine.

Deciding between practicality and pleasure can be a tough thing for a Gemini. While money is a necessary evil, most don't spend a lot of time worrying about where their next dollar is coming from. They don't put much thought into balancing their checkbooks, yet they manage to get by just fine. This is largely due to the flexibility Geminians have. Love and SexFun-loving and always up for an intellectual challenge, the Gemini is a spirited lover. The talk that precedes the interlude is just as important as the actual contact for this sign, and when it comes to wit, this sign holds nothing back. Flirtatious and curious, the Geminian will spend time with a lot of different lovers until they find one that can match their intellect and energy level. The Gemini needs to experience excitement, versatility, and stimulation to feel fully satisfied. Once the perfect match is found, though, the Geminian can settle into a lifestyle for two for the long haul.

GEMINI TIDBITS:HealthEach sign has a part of the anatomy attached to it, making this the area of the body that is most sensitive to stimulation. The anatomical areas for Gemini are the lungs, collarbone, hands, arms, shoulders, and the nervous system.

Ruling PlanetThe ruling planet for Gemini is Mercury. Representing intellectual urge and the avenue of expression, this planet rules reason, rationalization, words, awareness, and communication. Its action is quick, and it deals with travel, speaking, writing, trade, and emotional capacity and technique.

ColorThe color of choice for Gemini is green.
GemstoneGemini's star stone is the Moss Agate.
Lucky NumbersGemini's lucky numbers are 3 and 7.
Compatibility Geminis are most compatible with Libra and Aquarius.
Opposite SignThe opposite sign of Gemini is Sagittarius.
The Perfect GiftA surprise party, gift certificate to a bookstore, any activity with friends, Scrabble or other intellectual game
LikesMusic, magazines, books, music, blogs, chats with nearly anyone, short trips around town DislikesRepetition and routine, being alone, being confined
HouseNatural sign of the Third House. This house focuses on short trips, communication, conscious mind, brothers and sisters, and early education.

Famous GeminiansHugh Laurie, Johnny Depp, Rudy Giuliani, Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman, Helena Bonham Carter
Best travel destinationSwitzerland, Wales, London, San Francisco, Melbourne
StrengthCuriosity, ability to share ideas, adaptable, affectionate, kind
WeaknessScattering energy in too many places at once, fickle in love, nervous, short attention span
Charismatic marksExpressive eyes, quick, bright, often small-boned, refined features
Best environmentAny busy neighborhood, places where people gather to gossip, bookstores, museums

Freak cooking accident

2008-05-12T08:40:00.003-04:00

They say that accidents often happen in close proximity of your home. And sometimes you also hear about freak accidents taking place. Well, over this past weekend I experienced a freak cooking accident while in my home. I swear, my new nickname should be 'Lucy' as in 'I Love Lucy' or even 'Shep' as in 'The Three Stooges.'

Saturday I had a housewarming party to go to, and I volunteered to bake cupcakes. Yummy, scrummy cupcakes actually. And of course I had my little buddy Lola in the kitchen, under foot hoping to maybe get a lick of cake batter or ware me down with her cute puppyness. I wouldn't let her though. (A) Because one batch of cupcakes had rum in the recipe, and (B) the second batch were chocolate. Both no-no's for a dog, let alone puppy of her size. I also ran out of cupcake wrappers in the jumbo size, so needed to run out to the store...plus was running out of time to get everything done.

Well! Just as I turned from the sink to put something (I forget what it was) on the kitchen table, I bumped in to Lola. Not wanting to step on her foot, I was shifting me balance in all different directions, because I just knew I was going down (you know, like how you just sometimes know something...I knew I was hitting the ground.) And I did. But I didn't just fall on my ass. No, because if I'd have just fallen on my ass, it would have just been my ego bruised, and wouldn't make for such a freak accident.

No, as I was shifting my balance, I pitched forward, and smashed my face in to the spindle on top of the kitchen chair. Thankfully, yet it was still mad painful the spot I smashed was the part between my lower lip, and chin. (What would that be called?) Then I whacked my forearm against the chair as I went down and landed on my ass. Ida came running as I had yelled owe when I hit my face, Lola went running, thinking I'd beat her for making me fall, and Pooka came running to see what happened to his mom now. At this point I was laughing, as I couldn't believe what happened, was trying to reassure Lola it was OK, and not to be scared. Also I was thankful I hit the lower part of my face as opposed to my eye.

Am I sore? You bet. Is my face bruised, no...but my arm slightly is. And what about the cupcakes? How did they come out? DELICIOUS OF COURSE!!!

The evil's of getting a pet from a breeder

2008-04-21T09:15:00.003-04:00

I have never bought a pet from a breeder, as my mom instilled in me the fact that 'homeless' pets are in need of love, security and a home more. 'homeless pets' being those in the pound or at animal shelters. And although she had pure-breed dogs growing up, my grandparents never paid for them. Because you know, back in the day...who had money to buy a pet? And I appreciate the fact that we've always rescued our pets. I've had much success with my pets that way: Scruffy came from Northshore Animal League and we had her for 16 years. Pooka and Cro`i came from Save-A-Pet, and we've had them for almost six years. As a small kid, we also got the random pet from people in front of grocery stores giving away litters. (I miss seeing that now-a-days.) The only pet that didn't work out for us, which we got from a shelter was Blaze...but she was re-adopted out and thriving.
There is also no such thing as a FREE PET. The 'free pet' falls into the category of urban legend, mythical creature, and lives somewhere with Bigfoot and the Lochness Monster. Maybe Josh Gates should search out the free pet on his adventures. Which brings me to my 'baby' Lola. The cutest pocket puggle one could ever imagine. Originally obtained for my Aunt Ida...she wormed her way in to my heart within a matter of minutes of meeting her, let alone won my mother over too.
If you do decide to go the route of buying a pet from a breeder, please make sure they're a reputable one. I suggest you ask for references, and that you are ABLE to contact the references. Don't take a written testimony as proof. Make sure the breeder and kennels are CLEAN. A clean kennel is the grounds for a healthy pup. Also make sure you have ALL RECORDS on your pet, medical as well as breeding papers.
The reason why I say all this is Lola the cutest pocket puggle has been battling coccidia for a month now. I am not sure (but believe) she was sick with the parasite prior to us getting her. And the reason why I feel this, is because the breeder told me she was under the weather. We got Lola on March 15th, and on the 16th she had dirreah, and a bit of blood in her stool which raised the red flags, and had me at the vet with her on the 17th. Coccidia is not a fatal issue (if caught quickly and treated aggressively.) But it is time consuming, and just annoying...plus between being at the vet for Lola's shots, stool samples, and office visits for the coccidia, she is costing me a small fortune. Thus my stating THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS A FREE PET.
Would I (or my family) think of trading her in? Hell no, we all love Lola so much. Are we sorry we got her? Hell no, she has brought us such joy. And am I saying that only healthy pups and dogs live in animal shelters? No.....but when it comes time to bring a pet home, just really investigate and weigh all your options.

2008-04-14T11:09:00.000-04:00

Notice the little smily's eyeballs going 'round and 'round? Good, because that's EXACTLY how I feel these days. I am not one to complain much about the big things. I really internalize a lot, which I guess helps feed my anxiety and tummy issues. But I also feel like I am just going to implode if I don't let it out....so here it goes, in a rambling blog entry which I will try to condense as much as possible.
I guess I'll start with the work crap. Because let's face it, work sux. Each day my dream to run away, and become a beach bum becomes more and more appealing. Live the bohemian life I've always craved, and braid people's hair on the beach during the day, sipping mai tai's at night. (Ok, margarita's are more my speed.) Anyway for the past year and a half my department has heard about big changes coming down the pike, and being held accountable for our time and work, blah-blah-blah. My department felt little hits such as cut backs on overtime, and hiring freezes. But about 2 weeks ago there was a 50-person lay-off company wide. Or should I say Long Island location wide. 18 people from my building were let go, and from this number I was friends with 8 of them...(2) of them from my department. So of course the scare went out, and my department has been restructored again. I still work for the chief, but we report to a different manager (which is ok)...but there's nearly no laughter and comoderie as there was before in my office. Plus my cube-neighbor has proven to be a backstabbing snitch and now I really hate going in each day. I've opted not to move out of my house, because I'm worried if they cut more poistions and I can't make it on my own, I'll have no choice but to break my lease, and that's not cool. The upswing to that though is we're making a studio apartment in my house for me.
For the past several months I haven't been feeling myself. Just extremly run down, more frequent tummy problems, my allergies and sinus running like crazy. I all but live on my allergy meds, and have gone back on my anxiety medication too. My joints have been more achy, and even where I do not have arthritis I've had pain. Back in Februray I took a month off from dance class, just to recharge myself and although it helped slightly, I still am exhausted. Last Wednesday I went to a new primary doctor, to see if she could figure out what's going on. She told me I need to restart my fiber regimen, keep up with the allergy meds too. But she also took 4 tubes of blood to test me for everything under the sun (due to my old thyroid problem.) The doctor feels my thyroid has turned my arthritis in to rhumetoid arthritis which may explain a lot too. I am a mess, and keep plugging away. Because you know, NOT being independantly wealthy does not afford me the luxery of crawling under the covers and sleeping my days away. I get my blood work back in about 2 weeks.
Which brings me to my Lola. She is still under the weather. I feel like I'm living at the vet. Her appatite is good, and her energy levels are great. Well, it's back to the vet again this morning. (I feel like I've been living at the vet..lol.) I mean, it's not all bad because we've been going for her required shots...but I just want her 100% ok.
For the intestinal parasite, she goes back on Albon (her antibiotic) which she loves taking, because it tastes good. The vet says it's normal to sometimes have to do this 3-4 times for the parasite to be knocked out. Her appatite and energy is fine, and she's been gaining weight, so I don't need to worry about her being malnurished. Just worried about this bug.
But her fur loss has me real concerned. When we had gotten her, she scratched ocasiionally, and mom thought maybe she had a flea. But it's too early in the season, and we checked her and saw nothing. But then the scratching got much worse and I thought maybe food allergies so I switched her food. (We also had given her oatmeal baths but they didn't help much.) The food switch helped some but not much. The vet did a skin scraping onher ear, and that came up negative...but now she's losing more fur from her scratching in more places, so the puppy teacher (yeah she's in puppy kindergarten)thinks she has a skin parasite too! So it's back to the vet this morning for more skin scrapings. It just never ends.
So I thank you for listening to me bitch and moan. I know there are many people who have it 1000% worse than me. But I am just exhausted. I go to bed exhausted and wake up exhausted and have to put a smile on my face during the hours in between, which is...well honostly...exhausting. And I worry all the time over Lola and want to beat the crap out of the breeder, and wish my body would stop hurting. So if I don't seem as peppy as I usually am, or seem a bit quieter than usual...please don't think it's anything major. It's just all the little things. But I'll chug along...I have to.

WOW! Complete turmoil at the company

2008-03-26T10:49:00.002-04:00

So it has begun. Yesterday the company which I work for was hit was a massive lay-off. Yes there has been visible scale-backs in certain areas and some random firings as well. And of course the scuttlebutt is always running like wild fire. But I don't think people really expected it to happen.
And it was so vague with how they decided who to let go. People who had been with the company for quite some time were let go, part-timers were let go. Some managment and union members were let go. We just got a memo sent out that the transportation service (for long-distance employees) will be ceased in May. So like I just said to a friend of mine, that will force people to commute ontheir own dime, and cause possibly more employees to stop working for the company, cutting posistions. It makes you wonder.

Recognizing the signs of hating my job

2008-03-10T13:42:00.002-04:00

Everyone has good and bad days in their career. Some people are blessed to LOVE what they do for a living, and where they work. Some people HATE their jobs and having to do what they do for a paycheck. And some people just don't give a damn about where they work, what they do as long as they get a paycheck. I used to fall in to the category of being someone who loved their job.
Used to. Those are the key words. The entire first year at my company, I loved getting up and going in to the office. People used to be able to say 'hello' to one another without worrying about getting caught saying 'hello'. You would be busy all day, and be able to goof around with a coworker. If you had been assigned a project, and needed an extension on it...you didn't mind working late to finish it up.
The second year of being at my company brought about A LOT of changes. People are not allowed to talk to people in other departments without a comment being passed. Management does not crack jokes or even allow you to crack jokes any longer. Conspiracy theories and back-stabbing have gotten to become so out-of-hand it is pathetic. Salary increases are not coming down the pike, and employee moral is down. Hiring freezes, and company globalization has taken hold at my location.
Come August, I will be with my company for three years. And every day I pray to have the strength to come in and give a damn about my performance. But it is getting harder and harder.

Annoying co-worker is still as annoying if not more so. But it doesn't effect me as badly as I just tune him out, because I DON'T CARE.
I don't plod along in my duties at break-neck speed like I used to, or stay late every night like I once had.
Each morning, I dilly-dally at my home until the last possible minute before leaving for the office.
Co-workers who need me to type items for them, annoy me as they just don't care if I am working on something else.
I try to avoid walking through the building (to go potty, or to the mail room, or for tea) to avoid seeing people who work in the building. Because they want to socialize. And I DON'T WANT to.
I am exhausted every night and worn down every morning from the stress of working in such a negative atmosphere.
And I call in sick just because I don't feel like going in to work. And I don't feel guilty about it.

The bulleted items above have made me realize how UNHAPPY and how much I HATE my job. And now I have to face the decision on either staying and being miserable or making the move, and moving on. But I am all but positive my mind is made up...and it is time for me to move on.

The nameless puppy-head

2008-02-20T10:47:00.004-05:00

This will be the newest addition to our household as of March 1st 2008. He needs a Celtic or Irish name. Or something equally as cool. Any suggestions? He is Ida's puppy....a puggle and I will not be taking him when I move in the summer. I am taking the two mc-kittens. And at least this puppy will not be a monster like Blaze the beast that we had to give away.

Spoof on Ghost Hunters.....it is hysterical!

2008-02-11T14:50:00.000-05:00

Ghost Hunters and Ghost Hunters Internation are two of my FAVORITE shows on t.v. today. One of the guys who is on GHI posted the link to the this clip on MySpace...and it just cracks me up. Maybe you need to be a fan of the show(s) to truly appreciate the magnificance and whit of the skit...but I find it hysterical!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_Hmb4p_iRk

Pooka strikes again!

2008-02-05T00:08:00.000-05:00

If anyone knows me, they know that I don't sleep alone. No...I'm not blessed to be sharing my bed with someone who will spoon with me, and whisper sweet nothings in my ear. I sleep with a four-legged, purring bed-hog. Sure it was all fun and games when Pooka and his sister Cro`i were small, and the three of us crammed in to bed together, and my biggest complaint was that Cro`i was sleeping between my knees. No...now it's down to just Pooka and myself because Pooka thinks he is my guardian orsomething.

I've had to start sleeping with a humidifier because of the heat in the house, and the frequent sinus infections I was getting from my sinuses getting dried out. Well, Pooka fell IN LOVE with the humidifier, to the point of that if I shut it of...he's tapping at in because he wants it on. Well last night was the icing on the cake. Last night, it was so bloody hot, I was actually asleep on top of the blanket (mind you it's just my sheet and a crocheted blankie), and had a difficult time falling asleep. (That could be attributed to the fact that the Patriots lost.)

Anyway, I had finally fallen asleep, and was actually facing the hallway, as opposed to the window. The humidifier is on the side of the bed which the window is on. But I was sound asleep....and comfortable. When a SHARP PINCH, on my arse no less woke me up. I mean my cheek was stinging! And I was scared....because as I mentioned before I SLEEP ALONE. (Even on the nights that I slept over squirrel's house, there was no sleep-induced ass-pinching.) So if I sleep alone, and something pinched my ass....was I having a paranormal expierence? Was some entity trying to gain my attention? Well before I screamed bloody murder, waking the house (see I didn't let my imagination get too carried away,) I gingerly reached out to see if my furry sidekick was in bed.

Lo and behold the furry bastard was! Sleeping on the left side of me, closest to the humidifier! AND he felt that I wasn't giving him emough room, because he was pushing...and I don't mean had his legs extended. I MEAN PUSHING with all his might against me, because he didn't have enough room. His toenails were what pinched my tender booty.

Typical male! That's what I say....wanting to hog the bed!

What I’ve learned from life regarding love

2008-01-20T13:26:00.000-05:00

I am the hopeless romantic, turned cynic. I believe in love, and believe in the happily-ever-after. However I also believe that this will never happen for me. Check out the song 'My Sweet Song' by Toby Lightman....and you'll understand where I'm coming from. Anyone who knows my childhood, and my choice of men will understand why I feel this way. I believe people can be happy and IN LOVE with one another. But I also believe that I must have done something in a past life to give me the inability to find that right person for me.

I am proud to say that after being in hurtful, go-no-where, abusive relationships and a year of theropy with a wonderful person, I've come to realize what I want and what I DESERVE. What I will and will not tolorate. But that still doesn't stop you from loving a person who isn't capable of loving you the way you need to be loved or letting themself BE loved. I also feel that I will never have what some people are blessed to have, and I accept that. I'm fine with that. And I will enjoy myself as best as I can. But for those of you who are YOUNG, and just starting out the gate...or those of you who need some guidience from us cyncial's here is a list of things to keep in mind. Maybe this is just theraputic for myself....but here it is none the less.

PERFECT in-sight on being in a relationship (even though these are quoted from a movie): 'The hardest thing is loving someone and then having the courage to let them love you back.' also ''Every woman has the exact love life she wants....When you're ready to let go, to be un-singIe and un-miserabIe, you will."

When you care for someone, or more importantly love someone, you will have good times and not-so-good times. The GOOD times should out-weigh the not-so-good times. You can hurt for someone, and cry for someone. But you shouldn't be crying over someone.

Communication is key. Don't be afraid to say what you feel, need, or want.

By realizing what it is you want, what you deserve it does not make you selfish to go out and get it.

You can love someone and you can be IN LOVE with someone. Sometimes these two actions are tied up in the SAME PERSON. This is when it gets sticky.

A great love relationship is based on a great friendship.

If a person is not willing to allow love in to their life, it takes too much energy to fight to be allowed in to that person's life.

Your friends will only want the best for you. Don't forget that. A real friend will tell you what they see, or know even if it may hurt to accept that information. They're not saying it to hurt you. They're saying it because they don't want you to get hurt. But they'll give you the time and space to realize this on your own.

Sometimes the person you love is brought in to your life at a certain time to teach you a lesson. If you learn from that lesson, you will come out stronger. It may not be the lesson you expect or even want...but you'll have learned from it.

Confide in the person you love. You'll be surprised with how they either accept what you're saying or give you insight, or even open up more about themself.

Be patient. All good things to those who wait. Just don't wait too long, or you may forget to put yourself first.

Reflection of 2007 (Meme)

2008-01-10T08:49:00.000-05:00

1. What did you do in 2007 that you’d never done before?
Host a party with my two brothers.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I am sticking to my resolution thus far, and I may make one for next year too.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
No. Oh unless you count Crazy-cat-lady....but we're not close.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
:o( Yes, my cousin Jack. It was tragic on (2) two levels. (1) He was down in Jamaica, VI for his wedding, and we were not there yet. (2) It was so unexpected.

5. What countries did you visit?
None in 2007.

6. What would you like to have in 2008 that you lacked in 2007?
My own place. :-) Self love, a more committed relationship. Is that too much to ask for?

7. What dates from 2007 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
September 28- it was the first night I hung out with someone, and has been leading me down an interesting road.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Speaking up (even though I was pushed) and telling H.R. I did not want a specific situation. This led to me getting to work with the people I like, doing the job I like.

9. What was your biggest failure?
The closeness with my mom....but I think I can regain it.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Bronchitis, sinus infection, a cyst on my side.

11. What was the best thing you bought?
In 2007? I know it's something which I use every day but for the life of me I can't think of what it is right now. ACK!!!

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
Erm, mine? For not fighting with my mother.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
My mother's. Because we had been getting along so well, that I forgot that she can not be the person I'd like her to be, nor can she love me the way I need her to love me. Because of this, and some other stuff she has said to me and her actions, I've come to realize that I can not rely on her for anything.

14. Where did most of your money go?
Bills, cat food, supporting myself.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Seeing Pooka & Cro`i when I come home at night, seeing someone special, getting ready for a night out.

16. What song will always remind you of 2007?
'The Way I Am' by Ingrid Michaelson

17. Compared to this time last year, are you: a) happier or sadder?  b) thinner or fatter?  c) richer or poorer?
I am happier, a bit fatter (but working on that), and on my way to being poorer.

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Laugh.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Second-guessing conversations.

20. How will you be spending Christmas?
For 2008, I have no clue yet. 2007 was spent seeing Sweeney Todd and having dessert at my cousins.

21. Did you fall in love in 2007?
Yes.....or the beginning of love.

22. How many one-night stands?
None....what I had thought was going to be a 1-night-stand turned in to repeats.

23. What was your favorite TV program?
SuperNatural, Paranormal State, Ghost Hunters, and Grey's Anatomy and Brothers & Sisters.

24. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
Yes....and ex-boss who was almost my boss again, but was thwarted and still tries to be EVERYONES boss.

25. What was the best book you read?
For 2007- Asking For Trouble by Elizabeth Young

26. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Rhianna

27. What did you want and get?
A laptop
28. What did you want and not get?
GPS
29. What was your favorite film of this year?
Oh jeebus! 3:10 To Yuma, Bee Movie, and Sweeney Todd

30. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I was 31, and had bare-stage rehearsal and ate dinner at Caraba's.

31. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Meeting someone. who has made me realize what I want in life, and to go get it. Forging a closer bond with my cousins.

32. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007?
As my own. :-) Jeans, sexy tops...sweaters. BOOTS. Boots are very important.

33. What kept you sane?
My cats. Smoking. Nelson and Peter listening to me and making me drinks. No seriously.....a circle of close and good friends keep me sane.

34. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Johnny Depp.

35. What political issue stirred you the most?
(Product) Red.

36. Who did you miss?
My Uncle Frank...my Cousin Jack.

37. Who was the best new person you met?
There are two. Keri (my cousin Christina's roommate) and Squirrel.

38. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2007.
Don't be afraid to go after what you want.

39. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
"Cuz I love the way you call me baby.And you take me the way I am."

Where oh where can a decent apartment be? Where or where can one be?

2007-12-27T15:07:00.000-05:00

**Before I launch in to this entry, I just want to wish everyone out here in blogger land a very Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and safe & healthy New Years. I hope that everyone enjoyed their festivities, and are all well.**

If I was not living the nightmare of apartment hunting, and witnessed regrettably) some of the apartments I have, would never believe what I am about to share with all of you. And just think, I live in the suburbs, not even in the city. I could only imagine what it must be like to search in an urban area. There has been much drama going on at home, and even though I have toyed with the notion of moving out, never really got off my butt to look for something. But now, things have gotten a bit sticky at home, and mom has made it clear that she does not value my contribution to the house, or respect me and my needs. The breaking point was Christmas Eve for me, when she made it clear that I was not included in our (annual tradition of attending midnight mass.) But I've totally jumped ahead with that comment. anyway, since just before Thanksgiving it became apparent that my days at casa de Lucretia were coming to an end. I started to look for apartments, and even put the word out to respected co-workers and friends to keep their eyes and ears peeled. Enjoy what I've encountered:

Apartment located in Bay Shore, NY: This ad was torn down from a paper hanging in the grocery store. It was for a studio apartment, and turned out not to be too far from my best friend Nelson (who was not the one who got me the information.) Anyway, I secure an appointment to look at the space, and the landlord (who was driving home from Brooklyn) was mad late. I mean late to the point where I was getting ready to leave. I had been sitting in front of this dark house, which looked something that could have been nice, yet was still spooky and had a for sale sign on the front lawn. Dude finally shows up and brings me to the BASEMENT apartment. Which OK, a basement apartment would have been fine. But this basement STUDIO apartment? Uh, no! You had to walk down STEEP stairs, and entered in to the sitting area. When I tell you the sitting area wouldn't have been able to accommodate a love seat, I am not kidding. You could not fit two people in to the kitchenette. The bedroom had no closet, which the guy was going to build, and I don't know how you'd be able to fit a bed in there. The only saving grace was the bathroom, which had a bench in the shower stall, so you could sit. If I could have lived in the bathroom, it may have worked. I was so stupefied by this, that I actually considered taking the apartment, called Nelson to have him check it out. THANK GOD Nelson saw it for what it was, and aside from not liking the 'crack city' neighborhood, said to me 'no way in hell are you taking this. Ian and Peter wouldn't even be able to fit down here, let alone The Squirrel'. Needless to say, we moved on.
I then called the number from another grocery store which the same friend (who gave me the first number gave me.) The man seemed very nice, yet reluctant to even set up an appointment to view the apartment. Finally he asks me: 'Do you speak Spanish?". So taken slightly aback, as I could tell by his accent that this dude did, I was honest and told him 'no, I do not.' So he asks me to call him tomorrow, and when I do...surprisingly the apartment was rented to a nice 'Espanish' couple. I felt like I was discriminated against for not being Hispanic, and was actually insulted.
Then on CraigsList (ahhhh, good old CraigsList) I found yet another apartment in Bay Shore, not too far from Nelson. And this time, it was through a real estate agency. Again, it was listed as a studio, close to the water, cats were allowed. It sounded good. I repeat....sounded. I set the appointment to go view it, and drag Nelson around since he is my voice of reason, and knows certain areas. When I gave him and Peter the address, Peter and him flipped, saying it could possibly be in the drug dealers/ prostitution den on Bay Shore. If we were on one side of the road, don't even stop, but if it was on the other side, it MAY be OK. So Nelson and I go trekking to this apartment, and had the damnedest time even finding it, as there was no adequate lighting or numbering on surrounding buildings. We both began to get a bad feeling about this, turned around since we had gotten tot he marina, and back-tracked. Upon heading back, we saw the building, which was a Victorian style. Nelson said it used to be a rehab house, and he didn't want me staying there. Plus again, bordering on prostitution parkway. Well, lets just sum this up with, after we left we both wanted to take showers. Walking in, the landlord explained that the fireplace in the common area didn't work, new carpeting still needed to be put down. He shows us what COULD have been my apartment, and I was afraid of getting hepatitis c. Filth and grime everywhere. Not to mention it looked like someone smeared feces along the hallway walls.
So anyway, I'd all but gave up hope. Until last night. I went and viewed an apartment in Huntington, and plan to bring Nelson back tomorrow to see it. I am pretty sure this is 'THE ONE.' For multiple reasons. It is still small, but quaint. And I can bring the cats. I don't want to say too much more until I know what is going on....but please everyone keep your fingers crossed.

Being woken up at an ungodly hour.....

2007-12-06T02:49:00.000-05:00

It's funny, I had never used to sleep with my cell phone on the night stand next to me. Nope...at night, regardless of it being charged or not, the phone was far away from me...either downstairs or in the other room plugged in. Even when I was dating someone, or 'involved' with them, I never kept it next to the bed in case they called...in the middle of the night. Sleep was sleep, and I was greedy about it.
But the past few months...I have taken to sleeping with the phone on my night stand. I don't know why. It's not like my kooky friends call me at 2:00am in the morning saying 'get yo' ass out of bed, we're going to do ________." Because you know....we're older, and more responsible than when when we were say, I don't know 21. And granted, I don't hang out with those people anymore...because I don't like who they were or the type of person I was when I think back to those days. And it isn't like I'm getting booty calls in the middle of the night. Because (a) I don't club/bar like I had....(b) I like and respect myself way too much these days to just up and do a booty call, and (c) well, I'm hanging out with 'Squirrel' and no one else. But to quote 'Squirrel and I are not dating'. *Rolls eyes and shrugs*. And not only is Squirrel an EXTREMELY....fully sound sleeper, but he is way too respectful than to call me at 2:00 in the morning for anything.
So when my phone does go off at odd hours of the night/morning. I awake in a slight panic, wondering who got hut or what emergency is going on. This morning was one of those mornings. I had actually gone to bed (last night) at 9pm, which is a rare occasion in itself. But I was tired, had been going to sleep, mad late all week. Anyway at 1:57am, my phone goes off and I awake with a start, fumbling for my phone wondering who needed me so desperately. It took me a few minutes to blindly locate the phone, and when I did to focus on the number. Because you know, God-forbid I put my eyeglasses on. And I was expecting the i.d. to read 'Squirrel's' name, thinking maybe it was later than I thought, and he wanted to ask me to pick him up at the train station due to weather. But it wasn't his name. Then I DID panic, because the phone number started with 674, which is how my best friend/brother's home phone number starts. But the last four digits were not his. So I flip open the phone and mumble "hello....hello....hello...." to no one being there. I call back to see who the hell it was, but they pick up and hang up. BASTARDS! You ruined my nice sleep, and even if it was a wrong phone number don't have the decency to say 'sorry, I've missed dialed. I hate to have bothered you so inconvienant at such a bazaar hour."
Which brings me to my 3:00am writing of this post. I got up to pee, then couldn't fall back to sleep. Pooka came and loved me up a bit, still no sleep. Figured I'd go on-line, and here I am. Posting. Because...you know....I post so infrequently these days. But then it hit me....one of my favorite songs. (Because I was thinking of a blog topic for me to put on Myspace) which wouldn't be so open and obvious in case certain eyes *Squirrel* happened to stumble across me on Myspace. {BTW....Squirrel....still doesn't know he's Squirrel. At least, not to my knowledge he doesn't.} So one of my favorite songs, and I used to want it as my wedding song, is: 'I Don't Want To Miss A Thing', by Aerosmith. For me, the first line says it all:
I could stay awake just to hear you breathing Watch you smile while you are sleeping While you're far away dreaming'
That had always grasped me, and it was something i had always wanted to expierence with someone special in my life one day. Because to me, if you could feel that strongly about someone...just want to watch them sleep...wow!
And I mention all this, because the phone call that jarred me awake this morning made me realize. I HAVE this. I mean don't get me wrong. I know that I am not 'in love' with Squirrel yet. However I do know that I LOVE Squirrel, and the fact that we're in one another's lives. But I have on occasion watched him sleep, as it takes me way longer to fall asleep, or I had gotten up to tinkle and then gone back to bed, only to watch him for a few minutes. And he is so peaceful when he sleeps. And on more than one occassion, I have seen him smile in his sleep when he senses me move closer to him, or touch him. I mean...there is so much more to what I am trying to say. So much that I am not divulging in this rambling confession, out in cyber-land. So much I am holding close to my heart, because I don't want it picked to death, or critized or even mocked. But I ALSO have come to realize that the reason why I am over-analyze some of the things that have been going on between me and Squirrel is because it's not just sex between us. There are real feelings. And neither one of us want to hurt the other or get hurt ourselves. And more importantly....this is NEW water for me. Because I have never been with someone who doesn't want to intentionally hurt the person they're with. And because of my past, I wait for the bad stuff to come.....wait for it with no just cause to expect it.
Well, now that I have rambled on and on about all kinds of feelings and phone calls waking me up, I am going to try and get at least another 2 hours of sleep. I just wanted to send this out there.....to share with all you. Because, I miss ya's. Even though it's me who isn't writing as much...I still miss ya's. And I also wanted to THANK wrong number person for waking my ass up. Because, if they hadn't called at 2:00am in the morning, none of this would have hit me as clearly (or as jumbled) as it did. NIGHT...all.

Horseback riding in the dead of winter

2007-12-02T12:31:00.000-05:00

Today my little cousin Karen and I went horseback riding. I feel so funny calling my cousins Nick, Christina and Karen my 'little cousins' as they all tower over me. But they are younger, and will always be my 'babies', hence they will always be my 'little cousins'.
Anyway, months ago Karen and I had discussed going horseback riding, and life as usual got hectic, and we never did it.I've been wanting to do something special, just Karen and I as we haven't hung out in quite awhile...plus in October I was in the city w/ Christina & co.
So the other day, Karen asks if we can go riding, as we never did it. And although winter is here, I didn't feel I could say 'no' to her as I wanted to keep my word by doing this with her. So even though it was FREEZING today, and the wind-chill factor made it feel like we were in Cyberia...I braved the cold, bundled up and off went. This was Karen's first time on a horse, and I was worried she may not enjoy it or get freaked out.
Yeah, I had nothing to worry about, with her. She was on a horse named Sampson, and had a great time, until Keith's horse took a massive shit right in front of her. Karen was afraid to kick her horse to make it canter or move faster, so I kept telling her. Then during our last canter I yelled a bit, so Sampson (her horse) for him to move. Which of course he did, and poor Karent hought she was going to fly out of her saddle.
I think the high-light and horror though of the ride was when we were going through a sand-pit. Keith was leading us, and Karen in the middle as she has never rode before. As Sweetpea and I were going through the sand she decides to plunk down....which was a new expierence for me. I didn't know why she was doing it, and before I could ask Keith...Sweetpea continued to roll( like a dog does) with me still on her! So as she is rolling, and I have my leg pinned under her I'm yelling 'THE HORSE IS ROLLING! THE HORSE IS ROLLING!!!' I was able to get my leg out from under the horse without really getting hurt, but we'll see what tomorrow brings. I am just so thankful it was me this happened to, instead of Karen.

Wow....just when you think you've pulled the wool over their eyes

2007-11-19T08:56:00.000-05:00

I am still in shock over this. And laughing uncontrollably. And had to share it with my brother (Nelson) as well as with the rest of you. Because no matter how old we get, we think that we can fool our parents. (Or at least, I kinda thought that.) Because...you know, mom can be scary at times, and seem judgemental. And a bit overbearing. So I try and not tell her certain aspects of my life, just as I'm sure the rest of the world don't feel compelled to tell their parents EVERYTHING either.
Let me back track a bit. (5) Five years ago I was dating a person who was NOT the one for me. It was a very unhealthy relationship, and although my mom and Ida tolerated him (as they didn't want to push me in the wrong direction) they did not welcome him sleeping over, or really care for me staying at his house. If this person slept at my house, he was to sleep on the couch as opposed to upstairs with me. SO IT CAME AS A HUGE SHOCK TO ME THAT WHEN I STARTED RECENTLY HANGING OUT WITH SOMEONE (WHO I REFER TO AS SQUIRREL) THAT MOM SAID IT WOULD BE FINE FOR HIM TO STAY OVER THE HOUSE, WITH ME (AS IN...IN MY ROOM). She has yet to meet him, so I was all, "REALLY?" She also doesn't get bent out of shape if I stay over his house either. (Part of this is because we don't live exactly close Squirrel, and I.)
Anyway back to the point in hand here. Tuesday night, Squirrel and I decided to hang out, and it turned in to an all-night event. Mom was OK, other than the fact that she was concerned I didn't have a change of clothes with me. (It worked out in the long run.) Then this past Saturday he and I had decided to get together to do something. So as I was leaving the house, Ida asked if I planned to come home (so she knew whether to lock all the way up or not.) I told her I didn't know but that I had hoped not to be coming home that night.
Which brings me to MY OWN DISILLUSIONMENT. Because you see, here I was thinking oh...mom and Ida have NO clue as to what is going on. They just think I'm sleeping over at Squirrel's house from time to time in a platonic manner. UH, YEAH. THEY'RE WAY AHEAD OF ME. Yesterday I am lounging on my couch, and Ida and mom come home. Mom goes upstairs to change, and Ida is putzing around, goes to the bathroom and comes out, stopping in front of me. 'I have to tell you something, and I don't want you to get upset.' (My attention is caught, and I begin to get nervous.) 'Mom asked me, or actually said something to me, and I thought I told her the right thing...but she wanted me to address this with you anyway. Just don't let her know I did so.' (Now I'm panicking. Is it something to do with mom's health? She isn't doing too well these past few weeks.)
And Ida continues: 'After lunch today, we're driving to Lowes, and mom says to me; I hope that Rose and _______ (she used his name) are using protection of some kind. Because the last thing either of them needs right now is a little surprise. And I said to mom, oh I am sure Rose is handling that. I don't know which method but I know she wouldn't be that dumb.'
AND THERE YOU HAVE IT BOYS AND GIRLS, FRIENDS AND FELLOW BLOGGERS. i AM STARING AT IDA, MOUTH AGAPE. Because I didn't have them fooled for one instance as to what goes on when I am out with a certain someone. I am not that suave. And I am completely dumb-founded that the two of them are so calm and cool about this. So I had to wait until I got my voice back, and then reassured Ida that yes....we are using precautions, and that I even plan on having back-up back-up when I go see the gyno in a few weeks. But you know what...this is a BIG relief. Because now I know that they know I am an adult, and adult enough to make my own decissions (they respect my decissions), and we can be one happy family. And my mother doesn't judge me. She just wants me to be happy and safe. And that's what family and love is about.

ACCEPTANCE!

The Squirrel is driving me NUTS

2007-10-23T22:12:00.000-04:00

I don't know why I am posting this stuff about Squirrel here, instead of on the dating blog I had started back in the day. I guess because I feel most comfortable here, and don't know if I should even bother with posting on that site, as maybe those situations were jinxed because of that type blog. NUTS, right?
So bare with me as I ponder the acts of like/lust/and possible beginnings of love (OK, way ahead of myself here on that one.) But Squirrel has me going nuts because I am too chicken to take a step and ask away. A few posts back I asked the age-old question of 'how do you know if someone is interested in you.' Well, shortly after I had posted that, I found out that Squirrel does like me, really like me on some level. We had gone to a happy hour a few weeks back, and well...let's just say that Orelinde had a situation presented to her and she took it. I know....I KNOW! what was I thinking (actually nothing other than it felt good.) What was I doing (errrmmm, the act that I hadn't participated in for a very, Very, VERY long time with someon I was highly attracted to.) And Squirrel was so cute about it too. He tried to not jump on me, and go slowly. We fell asleep, and I woke up in the early morning, and skipped out as I had something to do the following morning at an ungodly hour.
But this post isn't about my sordid first activity with him. Because after that night, the following week, he took me to dinner (and ok, we wound up repeating our activities afterward.) But afterwards, he is so sweet, and tender, and gentle. He has (had) informed me that he is 'happy', we share secrets about ourselves. A few nights after that, we got together, had gone to a movie, and had dinner at his house, and hung with his roommates for a bit before having alone time. And of course I was informed that if I wanted a meaningful relationship with Squirrel, having THE SEX with him on the first night, or every time we get together is not the way to go about it. Claire has told me, big bro Nelson has told me. Fuck...even Cousin Dee has scolded me, and above anyone I would think she would be like 'you go get yours.'
Then things cooled off considerably. We went for coffee one night, and were supposed to do something then he got sidetracked on a project and I left him because he 'felt bad that I was bored.' We retty much didn't see one another all last week, although in Squirrel's defense, and as a tribute to him, I have to say that when he says he will call me, he does. I had texted him one night (biting the bullet), saying I missed him, the following morning I got a text back saying he missed me too. Last Friday I went for cocktails with some friends, and wound up going to his place after, to hang out. Well plans didn't work out as he got called away on an errand. Again I admitted to missing him, as he was holding me in his arms, and he confessed the same too. Then I went the extra-step and said 'you're so full of shit', to see if he was saying it just because I had said it first. He pulled back, looked in to my eyes, and repeated that he misses me, and that why wouldn't he know how he felt. He was slightly drunk too when I got to his house, and I thought that was a GOOD thing, as I could have tried to get some facts out of him. Facts that I am dieing to find out. I even told him that I had gone to his house with questions, but was leaving with them unanswered. Questions such as: (a) What is exactly going on between us- is it just sex? (b) are we friends w/ bennies? (c) is he 'hanging' out with any other women? (d) does he think we're dating? (e) will this progress to dating? (f) is there any future in this?
I figured if he was crocked and I was not, that he may be more willing to be truthful. He has told me in the past that I could ask him anything. I am just too chicken. And ladies, we all know how men are. You ask them a question, and they get all....well squirrely. (This is not how he got his nickname.) So what do I do? Just bite my lip and stay the course? Open my mouth and see what happens when I question? Or just try to get him relly drunk and find out the truth then?

The evils of being a dedicated & hard working employee

2007-10-21T12:34:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I have to admit that this one really is because I opened up Pandora's box several months ago. I have been with my company for just over two years, and when I started at the company loved it. I had loved my boss, at the time (who is now refered to as 'Big Dick' or 'Big Bad'.) After working for him for several months, he moved me over to the other office, to work for another manager whom I was petrified of, only to realize how NICE and GREAT a man & boss he is. This man is 'The Chief'. anyway, I have reported to 'The Chief' for most of my career with the company, in a posistion which is basically internal customer service, as well as doing admin support work for him too. I was given the task of tracking/posting vacation, handling payroll, etc....but then when a certain cretin/co-worker/bain-to-my-existance came over...HE got those duties. When that happened I was pretty much reduced to the internal customer service crap, and filing as well as handling some duties with daily reports. I would love to go in to more detail as to my posistion or what I do, but you never know who's reading this.
Anyway the office I work in, is so much fun. My best friend works there too, and we bicker/fight all day long. Another co-worker constantly reminds me 'how old I am'....because he's only 21. There's a manager who is just a hysterical fruit-loop who comes out with the craziest of things, and then 'The Chief' gets in on it too. Do we goof around all day? Absolutly. Do we get it done by the days end? You bet your ass for the most part we do. However I've grown bored with what I do, and longed for something a bit more chall,enging. Something that deffently pays more than what I make. But what held me back was not wanting to leave my comfort zone, or any of the freaks I work with. Plus I know how my boss counts on me, and don't want to leave him stuck with inept employees. So back in August these two women from a different department approached me about an open posistion in their department that I'd be 'perfect' for. And I admit it. I toyed with the notion. But it was the day before I was leaving for vacation, and I wasn't sure if I really was wanting to work in that nest of vipers, which is the department looking for a new employee. So after my initial quary to the manager of that department, I informed her I was going to be going on vacation for 10 days and didn't want to hold up her interviewing. Before I had left for vacation, I touched on this matter lightly with 'The Chief' who told me that if it was in my best interest, he wouldn't hold me back.
So I went on vacation (back in August) and decided that I was not going to apply for that posistion. Yeah, what the hell was I thinking? Because the woman I had spoken with went to 'Big Dick' when I was on vacation and began to ask about me. Which flagged his suspisions, andhe approached 'The Chief' to see if any of this was true, and why was I looking to leave the department...etc. 'Big DIck' is big on paranoia, and conspiracy theories. And 'The Chief' told him that I toyed w/ the notion of branching out but opted not too. However when I got back from vacation, found a request from 'Big Dick' to meet with him. And totally blindsided, I went. And thus the 'offer' for the promotion was presented to me. Because you see, 'Big Dick' has not had luck with his employees. One employee just up and quit in the middle of the day last summer, then Claire transfered to a different department. Then the director of our department gave 'Big Dick' a girl from upstairs who this past summer pulled a Houndini as well and abandonded the posistion. Which leaves 'Big Dick' with just one employee who care about, and like but is as dumb as a bag of rocks, and so incompetant she can't even take a message down. (If you've been following the blog I think you'll know who this one is.) But I digress. At this meeting with 'Big Dick' he explains to me that they are not going to be hiring any other help on for my posistion, enabling to move me up the chain. That he knows I am bored out of my skull, and that he really needs me with him, as he has no support. And if I do not take this posistion, that I could possibly be phased out because 'changes are coming' and yada, yada, yada that I have no choice but to accept the promotion (and pay increase) to be his Administrative Assistant. I am also to keep this a secret, and not even tell 'The Chief.' He also wasn't able to tell me when this transfer back to him would be taking place, as due to my leaving the posistion they would have to hire my replacement, and I would have to train that person.
But people....as we know, for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Because with this new posistion I am now under 'Big Dick's' thumb. I am not to socialize with any of my co-workers or friends from different offices or departments. (This includes 'The Chief', and my best friend) during business hours, I am not to discuss anything that goes on in my (Old) new office with anyone, and I am, and I quote 'being asked to refrain from taking my breaks with any other employees'. Do I need to repeat myself? Refrain from taking my breaks with any other employees.
So...there will be no laughter, no music, no smiling or making eye contact with anyone. Let alone 'Squirrel', if and when he works at my building. Not that he mentioned 'Squirrel', but you can get the idea from all else I have just mentioned. (See past posts on the guy I like. As that is his nickname, unbeknownst to him.) 'The Chief' can't believe this is going down, and there are alot of other crap that I can't even get in to on here because (a) t is just too much to post, (b) who knows who may be reading this, (c) it is just so petty.
Now I am in the process of training this older, and scary woman who they brought over from a different department of my company to fill my spot. She is just not hppy being there, doesn't want to learn, and when she decides to go to the restroom, treks across the building anddisappears for a good 20 minutes. I found out Friday night that she saw me and Claire talking in the restroom (which we were) and then she had the nerve to go bitch to my friend that I left her for 30 minutes to discuss her. UH-SHAH....I don't think so. Theyve also interviewed this girl who more than likely will be hired to take over my other duties and act as back up to old-lady. And I am glad if they do hire this person, because she has a brain and can help out 'The Chief'.
However now I will be required to train two people, and I am not happy about being forced to take this transfer. I was the one who originated my posistion, so although it is mundane, and frustrating, and not a rewarding posistion I don't want to see anyone else have it. And they'll all be having fun, and goofing around with all my friends in the back. People I am no longer allowed to even glance at. And what if the people I worked with decide they like her better than me or even worse (that she's a better worker than me)? And to top it off, I'll be stuck with 'Big Dick' and inept employee who is on her way out anyway? Doomed is what I am. DOOMED. All because I do a damned good job and 'Big Dick' couldn't face losing another employee.

Blaze has out-stayed her welcome

2007-10-15T15:14:00.000-04:00

I never thought that it would come to this. We are looking for a new home, for Blaze-the wonder-pup. It is not even a full year of owning her, and she has sealed her own fate by being expelled from casa-de-mine.

Blaze is a great dog, don't get me wrong. She is just TOO MUCH dog, and we can't handle her. She has been through puppy school 1 and 1/2 times, and does not grasp the concept of certain commands. And when you repromand her, she all but laughes at you and defies you even more. She still has the habit of mouthing, and jumping but with Ida in the house, we can't afford to have Blaze knock her down. (As it is, Ida fell and fractured her foot two weeks ago.)

There are alot of mixed emotions in our house. We want to keep her so badly, as we love her. But on the other hand she is making us go mad. When she is go, she is a great dog. But when she is bad, she is satanic. We even thought about getting a smaller dog (as we DO want a dog) but she has us so exhausted, that we've opted not to go that route.

Still sick....(shut up y'all)

2007-09-19T10:26:00.000-04:00

:-( I think I still classify as being sick. Since September 4th I hadn't been feeling well. My throat was all ouchy, and I was coughing like crazy. But other than that, I felt a-ok. No fever, no other symptoms, and I just thought it was sinus crap. But by Sunday, September 9th I was thinking of getting my sorry ass to the doctor. On September 10th I saw my doctor, who diagnosed me with bronchitis, and put me on antibiotics (Z-pack) and oral steroids to help with the inflamation.

And I took my meds like a good girl, and didn't complain too much. My meds finished on Saturday, September 15th, but I am still coughing, and my throat is still phlegmy. But I don't have a sore throat. When I'm able to cough out my junk, it is slightly discolored, which makes me think infection is still there.

Which brings me to the question: do I drag my ass back to the doctor? This weekend I am going up to Lake George, for the 'cousin' trip. (It's a bunch of us cousin's and we go and have a rip-roaring time.) It is the first one I am going to in quite a few years. But I'm nervous too, because Lake George is having a cold front right now. So I'm nervous because if I go up there with lingering infection, am afraid it will blossom in to something worse. But I have no idea when I can get to the doctor.

How can you tell?

2007-09-07T13:18:00.000-04:00

So here we go again....Orelinde is clueless when it comes to the 'boy factor' of life. How does one tell if another party is interested in them? I mean, when we were in grade school, and 'liked' someone it was easy to figure it out. Depending on who liked who, someone would punch the object of their affection, and then run away. OR, we would decide that the person of our affection had 'the cooties'. And this would go on for either the week, the term, or perhaps someones entire childhood. Having a crush on someone when you were a kid was much less complex than it is being a grown-up.

Or being as close to being a grown-up, as one can be with pink hi-lites. But I digress. Because after many months of doing the on-line dating thing, and then just giving up again I've finally been crushing on someone. But it's tricky, because technically we work together. We don't work in the same office, sitting side by side cube-wise but technically we work for the same department.

I am not giving away his name, nor have I come up with a nickname for him yet, to refer to him as in my blog. But he is cute, and very nice. And every day he comes in to chat with me. It isn't endless conversation ( as I think he doesn't want to have me caught by 'big dick' and get in trouble. But he swings by at least once, sometimes twice a day to say 'hi' or even 'toodles'. (His word, NOT mine.) :o) But is this just casual, friendly chatter? Or is he kind of interested? He did tell me he thinks my hair looks 'awesome' with the pink in it, and today (not to mention one night when I was going to a happy hour) did he comment on my outfit. Today I am wearing khaki, and have a military look going, which he was teasing me on. Is this just being nice, friend convo....or is he interested?

And don't dare tell me, to sniff around and suggest we go for coffee or drinks, or do something to even remotely suggest making the first move. BECAUSE I AM SHY. And jaded.....and don't want to be shooting out of my league. So until I have some other kind of proof that he IS interested in me, will continue to to ponder this. But I'd really, really like some feed back Ladies....guys....do we think this is interest or just friendly banter?

Things are just rosey

2007-09-06T11:16:00.000-04:00

Ok...ok...so I know most of you are going to wrinkle your noses and make 'tut-tut' noises when you read this. I HAVE PINK HI-LITES!!I finally bit the bullet, and found a place who would do funky color hi-lites, and bought the stuff. Instead of going for the blue colors, like I had gravitated to, and even bought the clip in extension of....opted for pink. I used MANIC PANIC RED PASSION. I have a big strip of color underneath my hair, so when I pull my hair up, you can see it. And then on top, in my crown....I have pink too. Mom and Ida love it. Of course the boys of the office have yet to really say anything about it. My friends through my cousin Dee like it too.
On another note, I will be taking my side company Orelinde's Originals to (2) two local craft shows. One will be on September 29th, in my town....at St. Joseph's Church. The other will be held on October 13th, in Smithtown. So I have been a tornado of creative energy making the shower gels, body lotions, and Halloween soaps. Tonight I will continue with soaps, and painting of wooden home hangings as well.
And last but not least....yesterday was the mc-kittens 5th birthday!Yep...Pooka & Cro`i are five years old...and still acting the apples of my eye. I had ordered a Baskin & Robbin ice cream cake for them, but the order had been canceled as the cake decorator couldn't make a small cake look like a kitty. So instead we all had Carvel ice cream sundae's. (I know, not good for any of us.) But Pooka & Cro`i had soft-serve strawberry & pistachio, with whipped cream. (Blaze got some of theirs too. For dinner mom, Ida and I had pizza, with of course Blaze getting her own slice. Pooka and Cro`i got all kinds of kitty treats to eat, as well as two cans of Fancy Feast for birthday gifts. Afterwards Blaze kept giving Pooka kisses, and Pooka kept wacking her on the head. This went on for a good 3-minutes and then Pooka finally had enough of his sister's 'mooches. But I think they had a nice birthday.

Back to school with Blaze-MaGoo

2007-08-28T11:59:00.000-04:00

I've had it.Blaze-the-wonder-pup has evolved in to Blaze-the-pup-from-hell. I can honestly say that I like her, and most of the times like having her. But I can also honestly say that I do not love her. If you ask Ida, she would say that I was being unfair. Because Ida loves having Blaze in the house for security (so do we all, for the most part.) But I have never thought that having a puppy would be THIS difficult.
When we had gotten Blaze, she was a 10-wek old ball of fur, and a joy to carry around. She sure grew fast, and at just about 11 months old weighs close to 60 pounds. Which is understandable, being that she is a mix of Sheppard/colli/rotti. From what my vet told em, full grown she'll be anywhere from 75-95 pounds which was more dog than we really had hoped for. At 12-weeks old, Blaze participated in an 8 week training course at PetSmart. We had had our ups and downs during puppy school, but when she had graduated, seemed to really be on the right track. Or so we thought.
Since she graduated, Blaze has regressed (partly my fault) to not listening to her commands, or when I do try to practice her commands she will partake for a bit...and then go in to 'play-mode'. The only commands that she listens to are: sit....and when on the leash (only) let's go, and leave it. Off the leash....forget it. She gives you a look which simply says: 'what do you mean 'leave it'? I have no idea what you're trying to tell me.' Want her to stay? that never happens. EVER. But her two major points of disobiedance are her continuous jumping, and her mouthing. Both of which she should have outgrown by now. Or at least learned to control with the commands given her.
Before I went on vacation, I was at PetSmart, and talked to the trainer. Because you know...PetSmart has the satisfaction gaurenteed cause on their training program. SHA-RIGHT. The trainer tried to rope me in to shelling out another $250. for either a private lesson, OR the next set of classes. They were not willing to honor their gaurentee. So I've let Blaze off the school hook for awhile. But regardless of Ida's stance on Blaze doesn't need any more training...she's going back.
Last night I decided to take Blaze to get her nails clipped, and she was making me look like Freddy Cruger was coming after me. So instead of throwing her in my car, decided to walk her the two miles (so as to tire her out) to the store, and not give the (cute) shop worker a hard time. Yeah, my plan DID NOT go off without a hitch, as I intended. In fact last nights nail clipping included: me straddling the dog to keep her still, my holding her down, John (the shop worker) wrestling with her to clip her nails and inadvertantly touching my boob. BLAZE NIPPING John's hand HARD....and us then muzzling her and restraining her with a choker thing around her neck. John said it was no big deal, about him being nipped...but I knew he was hurt, and I was mortified.
After all was said and done, I bought some treats for her (as they clip nails for free), AND I gave John tip due to feeling guilty over his injury we walked home, with me reaking like dog. Oh Blaze was as happy as a pig-in-shit on the way home. But my mind is made up. Blaze is going back to school, because this is just wrong. And honestly, I can't see owning this dog who is so unruly.And really she is a good dog....she's just thick-headed. So as of Thursday, August 30th Blaze will be in a six-week program, (which is costing me $100.) at PETCO...where the pets go. Hopefully it will do the trick this time. Because if it doesn't Blaze will be in the dog house for sure.

I have come to despise the people I 'work' with

2007-08-02T13:10:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time, I loved coming to work, at the place where I work. I believe I've mentioned that in several of my past posts about the ninth ring of hell that I work in. My boss, 'The Chief' is fine to work for; a fair boss, and a nice man. However there are other people in my department who just make me want to hurl something (most times the desire to hurl something SHARP) at them. To date, this has been 'Big Dick', who was formally refered to as 'Big Bad.'

Let me digress....I basically have no office support in my department any longer. A (now ex-employee) last summer just upped and walked out in the middle of a morning. Claire transfered to another department recently. The girl whom they moved in to her Claire's old posistion decided to pull a vanishing act (aside from going out on maternity leave.) So we're expecting her to come back at the end of this year, but WHO REALLY KNOWS. So now that leaves: YOURS TRULY, a part-timer (who is refered to as 1/2 the bane to my existance), and another woman who we'll kindly refer to as 'Queen Bee.'

'Queen Bee' now has to spend a few hours each day filling in the slot that Claire used to have. Part-time girl is never here, even when she IS here. And 'Big Dick'? Well, he just is worse than ever, making his usual sweeps through my office, trying to be large and in charge on things he can't even figure out. He has now enforced a nor personal phone call rule for both cell phones or desk phones. I am not even allowed to talk to Claire during work hours, or make eye contact with her if she comes to my office on business related issues. God forbid I have to use the ladies room. OH.....MY...GOD. If the phone goes to voice mail, 'Big Dick' goes in to a tizzy. Then he calls me, looking to see if Part-Time Girl is in my office. Because, you know heaven forbid she do something known as work.

Anyway, my biggest gripe is being that 'Queen Bee' chips in and spends a few hours each day helping out, she has taken to treating me like HER personal employee. And with that, I share with you an e-mail I got from her, and then also the one I sent back in reply. Perhaps I should not have...but I was so mad, that what my reply was...was the most neutral I could come up with.

e-mail to me: Subject: ADT Alarm Notifications

Hi Rose,

In the event that ADT calls the Helpdesk about an alarm, I want to make sure you know that details of the alarm should be noted and passed on to a supervisor/manager right away. Be sure to find out; what type of alarm, what site, zone, etc. Additionally, it doesn’t hurt to get the name of the person calling. Please don’t forward these calls to anyone, particularly if you’re not certain they are at their desk.

Call me if you have any questions – this email is just a reiteration for future reference.

Thanks!
'Queen Bee' (I had to change her name here for my safty.)

e-mail from me back to 'Queen Bee'

'Queen Bee',
And who would that be? Because basically it’s just me. Can it be established as to what the procedure is if no supervisors are available to take an ADT call?

11 More days until 2007 trip to Florida!!

2007-08-01T08:39:00.000-04:00

So I've been keeping my vacation planning pretty much under wraps to all those out in blogger-land. The reason being, pretty much I wasn't sure if this was happening, where I was staying, who was going, etc. But now I am way too excited, and all the plans are more than firmed up so I just need to spill the beans. If I don't, well then I'll simply bust.
Originally I was supposed to go to Ireland this fall, on a tour, but things got way to expensive, and then my cousin's announced to my mom that THEY were doing a trip to Disney. Would we like to go too. My family owns time sharing, and we are able to trade our weeks anywhere that accepts our program, so this is saving us $$$$$ (in regards to staying at a hotel.) SO when mom had asked me if I had wanted to go, to do Disney (because you and I know, there's no hiding that I'm a kid at heart) I all but yelled 'YES!!' I had asked her if we could do a 10-day trip as oppossed to a 7-day trip and without hesitating, she said 'sure.'
So we're going....mom and me. To Florida. Ida was supposed to come, but bagged out at the last minute (of plane ticket purchasing) to stay with the mc-kittens and Blaze the wonder-pup. This is my first 'real vacation' in quite a few years (weekenders and mini vacations are great fun...but this is a VACATION.) Mom and I leave on August 12th, and I have an itinary planned for us. She laughes, but I explained to her that it's the best way to get in as much as we want to see.

August 12th- Get to Orlando, check in, do some shopping, relax by pool. Dinner consists of http://www.piratesdinneradventure.com/florida/show.html
August 13th- Breakfast at Denny's (Mom has never eaten at one and is itching to), Universal Studios, Lunch at MargaritaVille, http://www.margaritavilleorlando.com/ (I am trying to also talk mom in to getting together with friends Kevin & Scott which whom we had not seen in MANY years.)
August 14th- Continue at Universal Studios, and also dinner at The Latin Quarters (on the CityWalk) This time though, I am BYPASSING the Jaws ride (as I had an anxiety attack on it the first time I had been to U.S.) I can't wait to go on The Mummy Ride, which was not yet open when I was there years ago.
August 15th-It will be Disney's MGM Studios, where I will be rockin' & rollin' on the Aerosmith roller coaster, we'll hit the Muppets Theater, and have dinner at the Sci-Fi Eat-In Restaraunt. We may also go to one of the water parks (either Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach that morning as well.)

So our plane tickets are ordered, and outfits are pretty much planned. I've ordered our customized maps of the 4 major Disney Parks, as well as printed them. https://secure.disney.go.com/wdw/myVacation/customizedMaps/index?id=CustomizedMapsFlashPageOur Itinary is planned, and in the process of being printed and laminated.I am in the midst of getting everything Ida and my 'kids' will need to have on hand while we're away (such as emergency numbers and precooked meals. and pet food.)

And the count down will contine....because there's only 11 more days until Orlando vacation 2007 kicks off!

What do you believe happens when you die?

2007-07-25T08:34:00.000-04:00

From Wikipedia:
Death is the permanent end of the life of a biological organism. Death may refer to the end of life as either an event or condition.[1] Many factors can cause or contribute to an organism's death, including predation, disease, habitat destruction, senescence, malnutrition and accidents. The principal causes of death in modern human societies are diseases related to aging.[1] Traditions and beliefs related to death are an important part of human culture, and central to many religions. In medicine, biological details and definitions of death have become increasingly complicated as technology advances.

In the Catholic religion, you basically are told that dependign on how you lived your life, you'd either be granted eternal rest with God (if you were a good person) or be sent to hell for eternity (should you be bad.) And that's just a rudimentary explination. However, what about the other theories? Those of reincarnation or ghosts, or even purgatory? Is there a period between the time you die, and the time you 'cross over'? And if so, what exactly happens during that time?

I don't fear death or dieing. I may be one of the few people who don't. That's not to say that I'm suicidal or even looking forward to 'buying the farm'. Perhaps it is because I had more pain and sadness in my childhood than a child should have, or maybe it's just because I have my faith and know that I will go to a good place.

But what happens when you pass on? Do you believe that if you dream of someone recently departed, that it is actually a 'stolen moment' with them? Their final opportunity to say good-bye, and it isn't really a dream? Do you think that whatever/whoever you believe in grants our loved ones a chance to visit us, to let us know they're still watching over us? Or do you believe in once you pass on, that's it...end of story?

Addicted to Turner Classic Movies channel

2007-07-23T09:09:00.000-04:00

I'm hooked. I can't stop setting my dvr box for all different sorts of classic movies. It doesn't matter what time of the day or night it's running. In fact I'm not even bothering to rent or pay-per-view anything because of the untapped wealth of entertainment TCM has to offer. It doesn't matter if it's a musical, or a horror, or even a mystery or western....I dvr it all. However I have to say, I think my 'new' favorite actor is Randolph Scott. I seem to enjoy him in everything I've seen him in. In fact, I wish there were more men in the (real) world like the characters he often played.
My movies that will have my dvr box busy this week is as follwos and I have yet to finish watching everything I already have on the box:

9:45pm
My True Story (1951) A female jewel thief tries to help the police capture a master criminal.Cast: Helen Walker, Willard Parker, Elisabeth Risdon. Dir: Mickey Rooney. BW-67 mins,
7/23/07

6:00am
Murder! (1930) A juror who had voted to convict a murder suspect tries to prove someone else did it before the execution date.Cast: Herbert Marshall, Norah Baring, Miles Mander. Dir: Alfred Hitchcock. BW-100

12:30pm
Three Godfathers (1936) Three fugitives risk their lives to bring a newborn baby out of the desert to safety.Cast: Chester Morris, Lewis Stone, Walter Brennan. Dir: Richard Boleslawski. BW-81
4:00pm
To Have And Have Not (1944) A skipper-for-hire's romance with a beautiful drifter is complicated by his growing involvement with the French resistance.Cast: Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Walter Brennan. Dir: Howard Hawks. BW-100

Godspell (1973) Contemporary hippies relive the story of Christ's ministry and crucifixion.Cast: Victor Garber, David Haskell, Lynne Thigpen. Dir: David Greene. C-102 mins, TV-G
10:00pm
New York, New York (1977) A jazz musician and a singer fight and love their way through the show biz world of the late forties.Cast: Liza Minnelli, Robert De Niro, Lionel Stander. Dir: Martin Scorsese. C-163 mins, TV-MA

7/25/07

11:15am
Merry Andrew (1958) An archaeologist's search for Roman treasure gets him mixed up with a circus troupe.Cast: Danny Kaye, Pier Angeli, Salvatore Baccaloni. Dir: Michael Kidd. C-103 mins,
6:30pm
Seven Women (1966) The women staffing an isolated Chinese mission fight to survive a bandit attack.Cast: Anne Bancroft, Flora Robson, Margaret Leighton. Dir: John Ford. C-87 mins, TV-
8:00pm
Ride The High Country (1962) Two aging gunslingers sign on to transport gold from a remote mining town.Cast: Randolph Scott, Joel McCrea, Mariette Hartley. Dir: Sam Peckinpah. C-94 mins, TV-PG
9:45pm
Fighting Man of the Plains (1949) A former bandit enlists Jesse James to help him clean up a Kansas town.Cast: Randolph Scott, Bill Williams, Victor Jory. Dir: Edwin L. Marin. BW-90 mins, TV-G

11:30pm
Gunfighters (1947) A gunman trying to avoid killing gets caught in the middle of a vicious range war.Cast: Randolph Scott, Barbara Britton, Bruce Cabot. Dir: George Waggner. C-87 mins, TV-PG

1:00am
Doolins of Oklahoma, The (1949) An outlaw tries to leave the family gang and go straight.Cast: Randolph Scott, George Macready, Louise Allbritton. Dir: Gordon Douglas. C-90 mins, TV-PG

2:45am
Santa Fe (1951) Four brothers end up on opposite sides of a shootout.Cast: Randolph Scott, Janis Carter, Jerome Courtland. Dir: Irving Pichel. C-87 mins, TV-G
7/26/07

4:15am
Virginia City (1940) A rebel spy poses as a wild West dance hall girl.Cast: Errol Flynn, Miriam Hopkins, Humphrey Bogart. Dir: Michael Curtiz. BW-118 mins,
2:00am
Bucket of Blood, A (1959) A jealous Bohemian wannabe resorts to murder to perpetuate his new-found success as a sculptor.Cast: Dick Miller, Barboura Morris, Antony Carbone. Dir: Roger Corman. BW-65 mins, TV-PG

3:15am
Terror, The (1963) A lost soldier discovers a mysterious beauty haunting a half-deserted castle.Cast: Boris Karloff, Jack Nicholson, Sandra Knight. Dir: Roger Corman. C-79 mins, TV-PG

4:45am
Pharaoh's Curse (1957) A reincarnated vampire and his sister menace an Egyptian expedition.Cast: Mark Dana, Ziva Rodann, Diane Brewster. Dir: Lee Sholem. BW-66 mins, TV-PG
7/27/07

8:30am
Clairvoyant, The (1935) A fake psychic suddenly turns into the real thing when he meets a young beauty.Cast: Claude Rains, Fay Wray, Jane Baxter. Dir: Maurice Elvey. BW-81 mins, TV-PG

7/28/07

I've been bitten by the clothing line 'BITTEN'

2007-07-20T08:12:00.000-04:00

I have to say I am smitten, and feel oh-so-pretty. Ok, maybe I'm gushing a bit...because although I like to wear clothes (or affordable, PRETTY clothes), never go on and on about a certain line. However, I have to say Sarah Jessica Parker is a genious, coming out with 'her very own, AFFORDABLE' colthing line, BITTEN.
A friend of mine had told me about a week ago that Sarah Jessica Parker had come out with a line of clothes, where everything is LESS than $20.00 Woo-hoo, affordable clothing, I thought. Is it an urban legand or was it true. And also, SJP is like 90 pounds soaking wet, would she actually have clothing under her name which fits REAL-SIZED women? Because, according to the press release on Bitten, the sizes ran from sizes 2-22. Now, I'm not a size 22....but mom is plus-sized, so this would be something fun for her. And with my weight fluctuating, it is hard for me to find TRUE size mediums or 10's.
So last Sunday; mom, Ida and I treked out to the store (which is great in itself) Steve & Barry's http://www.steveandbarrys.com/ The store have VERY AFFORDABLE clothing for both men and women, ranging from infant age to the professional (grown-up.) we went straight for the SJP Bitten area, and mom and I both attacked the racks (looking for clothes to take with us on vacation next month.) P.S. I spent more money than I wanted to, but got a bunch of stuff.
Going back to Bitten, I got a pair of cuffed capri blue jeans, a cotton navy blue top w/cap sleeves, and a pair of khaki capri pants, and a pair of white LINED eyelet shorts. (Not from the Bitten line, I walked away with a tee shirt, a pair of shorts (for me) and a skirt and purse for Ida.)
All I can say to Sarah Jessica Parker is KUDOS on having this clothing line. Because everything is VERY COMFORTABLE. Today I am wearing my capri blue jeans, and the blue cotton top. I paired it with my ecru mules, and feel very Carrie Bradshaw from Sex & The City.
This is one clothing line that I look forward to seeing what will come in the future. And oh, MOST IMPORTANT....sizes. They run true to size, or slightly bigger.

IT'S FINALLY HERE...AFTER MUCH WAITING!

2007-07-18T16:01:00.000-04:00

Without further ado, I am pleased to announce the opening of ORELINDE'S ORIGINALS. And just what is Orelinde's Originals, you may ask. Well it is an on-line store of my one-of-a-kind handmade soaps, candles, body lotions, mosaic tiled works, and other specialty items. Check out the site, and refer it to all those you know! http://www.orelindes-originals.com/

Of course if you or someone is looking for gift baskets, or party favors I can accomodate the customer, and the price will be altered as well. (Boy do I sound like I'm making an infomercial.) And I am quite handy making other things as well, so if there is something you're looking for or don't see, give ORELINDE'S ORIGINALS a shout.

I've been wanting to do something to make a little extra cash for some time. Because, you know...everyone thinks extra cash is a good thing. Anyway, Ida has been itching to get her fingers busy with crafting, as she was the one who taught me the tricks of the trade. So I had asked her just what is it she could bring to the crafting table, and she offered up a few ideas. So we're aprtners.

It took me so much time to get the site built, photos I liked, and upload them and all the other stuff. Some nights I was up until 2am, working on the site because a description or photo wouldn't load and was annoying me. It is still a work in progress, but is UP and RUNNING!! So please spread the word.

Rest In Peace Benoit Family

2007-06-26T14:24:00.000-04:00

It is with a heavy heart that I enter my post today. Needless to say, I will not inject any sarcastic comments. The fans of professional wrestling, aka as the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) were shocked and grief stricken when word of Chris Benoit, his wife Nancy, and their seven year old son's death was announced.

Between yesterday and today updates of what transpired are flooding the internet, and news stations. It appears that Chris Benoit murdered his wife and son, then took his own life. I am not going to add a bunch of links to the articles, because that's not my entry is about. You see, I knew Chris Benoit once upon a time (and I am sure I had met his wife as well.) My family, and friends and myself are shocked and sickened that this has happened. I am heartbroken over it because three lives were taken. One of them, an innocent child. But I stand firm in my belief that they were ALL victims.

I know a lot of professional wrestlers, and years ago had been very friendly with them. In fact, to this day, I still keep in touch with (2) two guys who used to work for the (then) WWF...now known as WWE. Ida and I used to travle to many a wrestling match, and have stories that would curl your hair. We still have many a laugh over old memories of who did what, in such a such town. There were many good times, and many happy memories. Unfortunatly the wrestling profession is a cruel one. It takes ALOT to make a name for yourself, and if by chance you do become an employee of the WWE, a massive amount of travling must take place. You can be on the road 300 days out of the year (as my one friend had been.) Family life becomes strained, and due to travel, and the 'work hours you keep' more than likely your unwind time will be at the hotel, or hotel bar. Injuries do occure even though the matches are 'written'. Drugs, pain killers, booze are all a part of your life. I'm not saying that ALL wrestlers who are professionals live such a dark life. But it is very easy to get sucked in to it. The easiest way to sum it up is, A WRESTLERS LIFE IS NOT AS GLAMOROUS AS IT SEEMS. My family and I actually know more wrestlers who have passed away due to drugs than we now know who are yet alive.

Yes, I had known Chris Benoit (as did some of my family.) Not as well as I knew several other wrestlers. But each time I was in his company, he was always pleasent, a wry smile on his face. He was shy and reserved but well liked and respected. Chris wasn't the one to tell a joke, but he sure appreciated one. He never was unkind, nor did he seem unhinged. Nancy (who went by the name 'Woman') alwso was well liked, and a very smart business woman. I don't recall meeting her, but I may have.

And they're gone. In a blink of an eye, Chris ended it all. Many people are up in arms, wrestling fans who never liked him. Wrestling fans who have now turned against him. People who don't like wrestling at all. Some people are quick to blame steroids, but the toxicolgy report has yet to come back. Some people are quick to judge him. But how can we? Do we REALLY know what happened? The answer is no. I ma not taking Chris's side in this. But perhaps he snapped (obviously he had.) Maybe he had mental problems. All I am saying is, try to remember the good of this man. And don't be so quick to blame him. Because Nancy and his son were not the only victims. Chris, somehow was too. I believe that. And I hope with all my heart that their friends and loved ones find peace one day.

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

2007-06-22T08:30:00.000-04:00

I love to read, and have loved it all my life. I don't have a specific genre that I will only read or that is even my favorite. Basically, if it's something that sparks my interest I AM LOST in my book. The only books I really don't enjoy reading is non-fiction, unless it is something that I am researching, or is of interest to me. My reason for the dislike of reading non-fiction is that when I read, I want to be entertained or immersed in something that I wouldn't come across in MY 'real life.' Does that make sense? I do enjoy reading autobiographies or biographies, but again it has to be on someone who interests me.
When I was a kid, I overheard about a book, a work of fiction by Oscar Wilde. It was about a man who wanted to stay young, and whose picture aged instead. This fascinated me. Imagine never growing old! I HAD to read this book. But alas, our wonderful library *note deep sarcasam* did not have this so-called book of which I spoke of, nor would they order such a book for me. You would think I was asking for a book on how to raise the dead with the way the reacted. Years went by, and I had forgotten all about 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'.

Then a few years back upon talking with someone, the Oscar Wilde story came up in conversation and my quest to read or own this book was refreshed. Once again I went to my library, which over the years had grown in size, but obviousley not their narrow-mindedness. They still did not have the book, nor would they order it for me. I finally found it in Borders, and purchased it, adding it to my stack of books to read. Some months back, I guess almost a year ago I started reading it, and couldn't get through chapter one! You could only imagine my horror and disappointment. The verbage was very wordy, dry, and well. DULL! There was no supernatural element to it at all (at least not in the section I had read.) I found the two characters who kick off the book (Basil and Henry) arrogant, and pretentious, which I guess Oscar Wilde was aiming for. Much to my chagrin, I put the book away, unable to read it, and have yet to pick it up again.

Then I had saw that on TCM they would be airing the original film version of the book:

and I was so psyched. Now I'd get the opportunity to see what it was I was trying to read. Perhaps THEN I would get what it was Oscar Wilde was trying to get across. Last night Ida and I hunkered down to watch the 2-hour movie and were all but bored to tears. I found the character of Henry just repulsive and obnoxious, and found nothing redemptive of Dorian. For a movie which was made in 1945, it was done rather well. However, it was not a movie I was going to keep on my dvr box for eternity.

Does anyone else have comments to add on this Oscar Wilde story? Are all his works the same?

Working in hell does not even allow you a day off in peace

2007-06-21T08:55:00.000-04:00

I don't even know how much of this to post as it is mainly all on speculation. Yesterday I woke up late for work (when on summer hours, I need to leave my house between 7:30-7:40 to ensure I get to the office for 8am.) Yesterday, what time did I wake up? You guess it, 7:30am. At first I rushed around like a chicken without it's head, then said what the hell. I'd take the day (although it was a crappy one, because I had time to do it, and plus I had hoped to sleep.)
Well, sleeping in wasn't happening as mom and Ida wanted me to run errands with them (which was fine.) And by the time we got home, at like 2 in the afternoon, I went upstairs and took a 3-hour nap. So I DID get my sleeping in.
But then this morning as I called a co-worker to alert her to traffic problems, we got to talking and I found out that there was only ONE office support person (and I call her that as she is not an admin. asst. AND because she is only a part-timer in the office. I called in sick, and the other girl who works in the office with 1/2 of the bane of my existance had a scheduled day off. OOOPPS! My bad! But in all fairness, when I called and left the message saying I wouldn't be in, told them to call the house should they need me.
However what is totally weird is that people knew I was out sick yesterday. People who really don't need to know or shouldn't be effected by my being out today. One of the mucky-mucks was in my office this morning when I came in, and he asked me how I was. I found it odd, yet nice that he had asked me. It was very alarming. Then I heard 'The Chief', my boss on the phone with someone whose voice I didn't recognize ('The Chief' was on speaker), and the other party informed him that two other people and myself were out yesterday. So my question is: just how many people know I was out? And why do they know? And who told them I was out? I'm not THAT important to the department, that everyone needs to know my daily activity. Or am I....and they're just keeping it a secret so as not to blow my ego up?
Either way you look at it; even those of us who commute to hell to earn a living are not allowed to take a day off in peace. So I guess that means I really am working in hell.

New Cooking Blog

2007-06-18T08:38:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time, I had a recipe blog which I thought would be fun and helpful for those out there in cyber land. A place where they could get some yummy recipes and a side dish of my dry humor.
Alas I grew tired of it, and didn't know if anyone actually even visited the site. But recently I longed to have a second blog, since my original one Single Girl Meets the Un-Incredibles is pretty much defunct. What should I blog about? The Mc-kittens? Post my writings of the story I am penning? But then a blog that I visit frequently shed light. Tami has posted (2) two DELICIOUS recipes on her blog, and of course I just had to try them. Which reignitied my desire to start a recipe blog. So here we go!

http://the-cooking-corner.blogspot.com/

A Murder Most Foul!

2007-06-15T09:28:00.000-04:00

Do the above photos look like pictures murdereres?

**Disclaimer: photos attached to this entry are not for the weak stomached. Photos at the end of entry.**

Pooka and Cro`i….my mc-kittens. The loves of my life, the best babies any pet owner could ask for. There is nothing I wouldn’t do for either of them, and evidentially they know that. ALL TOO WELL. Because they gave me a gift last night, that only a cat can give its owner. (Or a psycho gives the object of its affection.) And I love my Pooka and Cro`i, my mc-kittens. I just wish things went down a little differently than they had. I would also like to interject the mocking I received last summer when I feared waking up to finding mangled crickets near or on me. But sit back and read this tail of love or in my case my tail of horror. (Note my attempt to be funny with the wrong use of tail.)

Last night, as usual I was looking forward to sleeping in my nice, soft, Egyptian Cotton sheets. I was tired, and looking forward to getting to bed at a decent hour (like 11pm.) But I had found it odd, that my mckittens, Pooka and Cro`i were no where to be found. Pooka wasn’t on my bed, no one was in the little pink room, nor were they running amuck playing in the hall. I put my ‘jammies on, and were calling them as I walked in to my bedroom. And THERE IT was. Something small and not quite belonging on my bed.

I ventured closer. The item on my bed much more distinguishable. I backed away. “Mooooooom, can you come here please?” I call, as though I was 12 instead of 31.Mom was playing on the computer, “What’s the matter?” she asks, getting up to come see. “I’m not sure if I’m right….but what is that on my bed?” I ask her, pointing at the shape. With that Pooka J. Tubbybutt, aka, my mckitten, aka ½ of the dastardly duo, aka His royal tubbiness comes running from his hiding spot, because (his mommy), me found the gift he left for me. He hops on to the bed, and the corpse shifts slightly. Mom looks at me, AND STARTS LAUGHING. I start laughing too. “Awwwwwww, they brought you a gift.” Mom says and begins to praise Pooka. There he is getting petted, and loved up, praised, and he’s purring away. Like an ass, I doing the same thing (praising him…not purring.)

Mom goes back to the computer, and I’m staring at the DEAD MOUSE on my bed. THE DEAD, GOOEY MOUSE, as I see little blood stains. Blood stains on my EGYPTIAN COTTON SHEETS. My Egyptian Cotton sheets which are brand spankin’ new….now the scene of a mouse murder…with little blood stains! Ever so brave….I call again, “Moooooom, can you take the mouse off my bed?” Pooka looks at me like I suggested something absolutely crazy. Mom cracks up, “No way kiddo…that’s your gift and yours alone. You dispose of the corpse.” And there you have it, Mom, chickening out on me. After I saved her from the chicken breast aside the refrigerator.

So I go to my other savior…Ida. I walk half way down the steps, “Ida….are you awake?” I call. “Yes, why?” I hear from the family room. “Are you comfortable yet?” I ask hoping she says no. “Yes, I am…why?” She asks again. “I have a gift in the middle of my bed, and I need you to remove it for me.” She isn’t budging…”What is it?” She wants to know. “A dead, gooey mouse that the cats gave me as a gift!” Ida was no help at all, “Nu-huh, you’re on your own.” She calls. And much to my surprise and duress, she DIDN’T come to rescue me from the DEAD, GOOEY MOUSE on my bed.

So what did I do next? I’ll tell you. Between fits of laughter, shared between mom and myself, I grabbed two plastic shopping bags and scooped up the disturbingly soft, and squishy mouse off the bed, tied up the bag and threw it in the trash…tying that bag as well. Pooka and Cro`i looked appalled that I would throw a perfectly good, DEAD MOUSE gift away. Next I gave them heaping amounts of treats as a thank-you/reward for the mouse which they gobbled up. I then proceeded to strip off my sheets, and my blankets, and my stuffed animal (Flounder from ‘The Little Mermaid’) and marched down stairs to throw them all in the washing machine. I washed them with loads of soap on cold water, as to not allow the stains to set. Next I went in search of disinfectant to wash down my pillows and mattress (okay, maybe this was a bit overkill- no pun intended.) But I don’t care. Unable to find Lysol, I used the remaining rubbing alcohol I had and washed down the mattress. Today I will Lysol the mattress and pillows before I redress the bed. This morning I washed my sheets and blankets, and Flounder in HOT water, and Ida is now in the process of washing them again in warm water. Hey, I need my sheets MOUSE-GOO free.

I also slept on the couch downstairs, far…far away from the murder scene of my bed. Yes, it is very clear that Pooka and Cro`i love me. And I love them more than anything in the world. But I can’t help and wonder if I was so far fetched last summer to worry about dead or mangled crickets being dropped on me that they caught. Or if maybe having Cro`i on my tummy as I watched a Jack The Ripper documentary not so much a good idea. All I know is this was the second mouse they’ve caught…and my loveable mc-kittens are now serial killer

This is a photo of the DEAD GOOEY MOUSE on my bed last night:

Pooka looking smug after 'the kill'.

Craziness in the work place which is filled with crazies!

2007-06-14T10:17:00.000-04:00

So I was driving home the other day, and thinking about my blog and how I have been able to update it more frequently, after practically abandoning it. Then it hit me, what had started out as a venting spot for me about my job and co-workers has not had any gripes about what is going on here. So here we go, because I’ve got a bunch to catch you all up on!

1. ‘Big Bad’ (my old boss) will now be referred to as ‘Big Dick’ because; well he can be such a dick. And it’s sad because he used to be so nice, and a really great person to work for or with. But he has these back-stabbing, underhanded ways about him. And he thinks that everyone is like him. For example, one of the departments in my company has food provided for them (such as bagels or cookies, or snacks) and one day there was an excessive amount left over. Well the bagels were brought in to ‘Big Dick’s’ office, and when a co-worker of mine went to snag one for her lunch…there were NONE to be found! Where did the bagels go? Because they didn’t leave the office, and the fridge there was crammed with jellies, and butter and cream cheese. He smuggled the bagels out to bring home, and this wasn’t the first time he has done something like this.

2. But that’s nothing. Because ‘Big Dick’ does this walk-thru thing thru my office. Another example: we have two doors in to my ‘cave’, (1) from the parking lot, (1) from the warehouse. And what ‘Big Dick’ does is come in from one entrance, and just walks thru the office and out the other door. No stopping to fax, copy, or talk to anyone such as my boss (the nice boss.) ‘Big Dick’ just does this to see what we were doing, if we were socializing or goofing off. One day he did this 3 times within a ten-minute span and even my boss was like ‘what the hell is that?’

3. When I had started working here, I would make cakes for peoples birthdays, and we would have small get-togethers but then some freaks on the second floor (who must have been deprived of birthday parties growing up) made it such an ordeal that for the past year Claire and I have tried to STOP the cake festivities. So what happened now? Well ‘Big Dick’ decided that we should have a bagel party for a PART-TIME employee who used to be ½ of ‘bane to my existence’. She still does nothing. I mean she SO DOES NOTHING, that she has people walk down her paperwork for her, from her office to mine or vice versa. So you can understand my griping that she should NOT have a bagel party to ‘celebrate her five years of hard work.’ Well Orelinde made a boo-boo, a BIG one. I had e-mailed a co-worker of mine a comment, and she had replied, but somehow it had gotten back to me and ‘Big Dick’. So now ‘Big Dick’ is actually shunning me, for the past two days because I was the one who passed a comment. He will not talk to me or look at me. If he does his walk thru, he actually makes a point to talk to everyone other than me. Like this hurts me. What am I five? Am I supposed to cry over this? I don’t think so….but this just proves that ‘Big Bad’ has turned in to ‘BIG DICK’.

4. I have a crush on someone in my company. And I don’t know why. I also know that once a certain someone reads this blog she is going to flip-her-lid. There’s a man who works for my company in a management position. He is not sociable, and does not even has people skills for the most part. Many people outright dislike him, and say he has NO sense of humor. In fact when I had started working here, ‘Big Dick’ tried to convince me that this guy was trying to cause problems for me. And perhaps this guy who I’m crushing on was. But this man has been in my building on special projects for about 8 months, (not on a daily basis) and we have a nice relationship when he is here. I even get him to laugh (which as rumor has it, he NEVER does), and he has even joked with me and my sidekicks. Has he changed completely? Absolutely not. And I’m not dumb enough to think that he is all sunshine and flowers, because he is very quiet, and ‘all businesses for most of the time he’s here. He’s older than me, as in old enough to be my father probably…and also is married. SO THERE’S NO WAY I WOULD EVEN ACT ON ANYTHING. If there was even anything to act on. Because there’s not. But I still have a work crush on him.

5. Claire is no longer in my department. She has moved on, in the company to a different department, and even floor. And I’m happy for her. But I still miss her.

6. I still have the other half of ‘bane to my existence’ sitting in the cube next to me. He’s as loud as ever and just as annoying, if not more so. I have found that I can tune him out from time to time which may or may not be good. He sings, whistles, drums, and makes siren noises. He sings and whistles so loud, that if he leaves the office, we can hear him for some time. ‘Bane to my existence’ thinks he is the shiznit but really he’s just a peon. All he does is complain, complain, and complain about all the work he does…yet he was the one who begged for it. Now he wants to hand payroll back over to me to handle. And if that’s the case fine. But I’m not volunteering to take it off his hands. In fact I believe he will now be referred to as ‘Bane to my existence’. I think he’s earned that full title.

And that pretty much sums it up I’m sure there will be more crap to talk about in the future about the crazies I work with. But I think you guys have enough to digest, and maybe even pity me.

Celebrity Boob Twin Quizz

2007-06-12T11:03:00.000-04:00

To keep in the theme of my risque dance recital Sunday...here we go:

Your Celebrity Boob Twin:

Lucy Lawless

Who's Your Celebrity Boob Twin?

FREAKY

2007-06-12T10:39:00.000-04:00

Your Beauty Element is Air You're quirky, fresh, and fashionable in a surprising way.You have a beauty that's all your own, and it changes as quickly as the wind!

What's" Your Beauty Element?

I find this freaky, as I am a Gemini...and Gemini is an air element. I found this to be very accurate.

The creative juices are flowing!

2007-06-12T08:34:00.000-04:00

I have been meaning to start writing for a long time. In fact, I think it was about a year ago that I had mentioned that I was starting to write a story. But of course, I started and then stopped. Because I tried to follow the lessons I had been told when I had taken a creative writing course. Like you know: for a plot outline, detail each of your characters, write down key facts prior to jumping in to the story. And I did develop my characters, to some degree, in fact I had even picked out actors whose looks I was basing my characters on, so I could have a visual as I wrote. But I didn’t get too far because (A) I was reading a novel, and (B) I found it very difficult to follow these guidelines AND be creative.

When I was a little girl, most nights I would get a bedtime story. If it was told by my Uncle Frank, it was usually about his childhood, or when he was enlisted in the army. I loved hearing about his life. Other times we would just talk, or he would sing me to sleep. But one of my coolest memories was when my mom would tell me bedtime stories. Because she was very creative, and came up with a character called Princess Rosie Sunshine. Of course Princess Rosie Sunshine was based on me, and all my shenanigans. She also incorporated my pet cat Socks in to the story. Sometimes when I was eating lunch in school, I would even find pictures drawn on the inside of my lunch bag, of Princess Rosie Sunshine. Yep, mom knew how to make me smile.

So last night, at dinner mom, Ida and I were talking and she and Ida were reminiscing about when they lived in Brooklyn (NY), and some of their friends. Well, they told me this one scenario, and it hit me. What a great title for a story! But what made it even better was if I were to incorporate the character of my old pet cat, Socks, which my mother had created in to the title and story. I mentioned this to mom and Ida and they both agreed enthusiastically that it was a great title, and idea I came up with.

Last night when I got home, I didn’t whip out a scratch pad to start jotting down ideas or plots. I just turned on the computer and began to type out the story. I am already in to the tale two and a half pages. Which granted isn’t much at all, but it is sure is something. So we’ll see how it goes. I read mom what I had written thus far, and she really enjoyed it, she even said how real it seemed. I am pondering if I should blog the story or just keep it, and then shop it around once it’s completed.

Dance Recital aka Nipple-Gate 2007

2007-06-11T10:27:00.000-04:00

So I did it! I made it through a year of dance class, followed by the dance recital without killing myself. Or freaking out on stage and not being able to dance. Of course there can not be an entry in my blog without some kind of drama, and I had drama on two different levels. (A) My cousin Maureen backed out of attending my dance recital due to another family function that she opted to go to. We got over it though. The second drama-infused part of dance recital was way more interesting…. And way more embarrassing and risqué.

Saturday afternoon went off without a hitch. Well, kind of anyway. Hip-hop was the first dance, and I have to say for missing two dancers, it went rather well. My friend Dawn, and this other girl, L.J. were both no-shows. So it was disappointing not to have them on stage with us, but it wasn’t a drastic change in the grouping or how we danced. Even though we had danced twice on stage, it was a bit daunting as this was THE BIG event. But once the music started pumping we nailed it. It helped drastically to have Carin in the wings reminding us to dance ‘sexily and sassily.’

Sunday’s performance for hip hop was no different, except Dawn was begging me to talk to her on stage. So there we were dancing and talking. This is hard, because you’re supposed to smile. So, I was like talking thru clenched teeth. But again, we ROCKEDto . Plain and simple.

Saturday’s session for tap was a little dramatic. Because it seems I got misplaced, trying to get part of my hip hop costume off. And my tap class was ushered back stage awaiting our song. So Carin (my hip hop instructor went on a mad dash to locate me and did) and we raced to the backstage to meet up with my class. I also wound up dancing with the choker on my neck from hip-hop, but that was no big deal. And there we went, tapping our hearts out. The song was SO fast, but we were amazing.

Sunday’s show was the one were risqué-ness took place. I was stoked, because my cousin Dolores was in the audience, and she was so excited to be there. I had forgotten that she used to come to my dance shows when I was younger. And there we went, tapping away on stage, like Happy Feet, and THEN I FELT IT. My left boob popped out of my costume, thru the keyhole…which is really just a low scoop, with draped material in the front. And I didn’t know what to do. Because as a performer, you know the show must go on. So do I dance with my boob out, or fix it. Well, I opted to fix it, but my costume was very uncomfortable as my boob was whipping around. So I tucked it back in, trying to be indiscreet...and knowing that people must see me fidgeting with my costume. Because of my distraction, I missed a key point, at the end of the dance, as I was center stage (and SO PISSED) and also didn’t dance to the full height of my capabilities.

Everyone said it wasn’t noticeable, my cousin Dee, mom and Ida aid it was ok. But then when we were leaving the venue, and I saw my tap teacher Cristin…she said someone told her they saw me fall out of it…TWICE. So I guess it WAS noticeable. And I guess everyone got a show within a show. But I had a great time, and can’t wait for the recital next year. Only next recital I will all but be superglued in to my costume.

Dress Rehearsal 2007:

2007-06-05T13:38:00.000-04:00

So last night was dress rehearsal for the recital which will take place this weekend. I am equally excited and nervous. On bare-stage rehearsal, I goofed in one spot, but kept in time with the rest of my dancers. So I was really nervous that I would repeat the same goof in the dance at the same time.

My hip-hop number is the one which causes me more grief, as this is my first year doing hip-hop. Plus I don’t feel that comfortable with this one STUPID step which I am POSITIVE that Justin Timberlake and his doofy N’Sync pals did. So anyway, my hip-hop song is GET ME BODIED by Byonce, and out costumes are black and white…it is a tube/halter top with black & white streamers hanging and black track pants (velvet) with white stripe down the side of the legs. Plus we have a string choker, and gloveletts. I had missed the rehearsal on Sunday afternoon, so was really freaking out last night, because I didn’t know my spots on the stage. But then I decided to just eyeball my fellow dancers, as they knew where to stand, and so be it. So there we go, ambling out on to the stage in the dark, heads down, awaiting Beyonce’s “Woooo” to kick off our dance. And off we went, lines formed, moving as ‘sassily and saucily’ as we could per our instructor’s command. Everything in my mind clicked, and I knew when to move, where I needed to be, and managed to keep in time with everyone else. The only bad thing I noted was that the tie in on my costume seemed to be flying all over the place, and although it didn’t UNtie, felt like it had. (My instructor) Caron was pleased, said we nailed it. And mom even said that I looked real good, that the step that I HATE with the passion of a thousand suns, looked like I had it right.

My tap dance was next, the ultra-fast I know my heart is in good condition number to Patti LaBelle’s ‘Stir It Up’. Mom was sewing me in to this costume as well, and I kept practicing to make sure the boobies stayed where they were supposed to be. Because you know: (A) nothing like waiting for the last minute to sew the straps, and (B) why wear a bra? No matter what mom did, my left boobie felt like it was trying to escape, so we wound up safety pinning the straps to one another, which was hidden by my hair anyway. At the last minute, my instructor Cristen changed up entry spots slightly, bringing my line closer down stage. My friend Mary was upset because now she wouldn’t be able to hear me count us out, but Cristen counted her line out. As I waited for my entry, I saw one of the girls on stage pin fly off her costume. Then my group was out shaking our money-makers, and trying not to pass out from exhaustion. WE ROCKED. I can’t say anything other than that.

So this weekend is the big event. And sure I’ll be nervous before each performance. But I KNOW now that I can do this. We look great as a unit, and I know my stuff.

Dress Rehearsal tonight

2007-06-04T13:49:00.000-04:00

So tonight is dress rehearsal, and I am scared shitless. All year I have looked forward to going on stage with my buds from dance class and putting on our show. But get me in front of people, have other dancers rely on me to count them out, and I am a bundle of nerves.

No to mention yesterday was bare-stage rehearsal (meaning we do our number in regular work out gear) and I totally missed the hip-hop number because I had gotten lost on my way to the high school. Then when performing the tap number goofed in a spot, but was able to keep in time with the rest of the people.

So tonight is dress rehearsal....costumes, make-up, blinding lights and an auditorium packed full of people. What have I gotten myself in to?

Happy Birthday to Me…31 and So-Much-Fun!!!

2007-06-04T13:45:00.000-04:00

So yesterday was my birthday, as as usual Mom and Ida made it an extra special event. We celebrated from Friday night all the way up until last night, and I never want to eat again. I also treated myself of course, but actually didn’t go the jewelry route as I normally do.

Friday night mom had to run to the Smithaven Mall to do some errands, and asked if we wanted to have dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. So Ida and I said ‘yeppy-deppy,’ and I was stoked, as I wanted to go to Macy’s anyway. You see, I had found Egyptian Cotton 300 thread count sheets on sale for $59.99 which is a STEAL. Have I ever owned Egyptian Cotton? Absolutely not. Have I heard how soft and what a MUST HAVE they are? You bet your ass I have. So for my 31st birthday I was determined to have sheets that would envelope me in softness, and guarantee me a comfortable night’s sleep. At the Cheesecake Factory, I had a chicken and pasta dish which was quite spicy and not overly heavy. Ida had the Sheppard’s Pie, and mom had a soup and salad and sandwich combo. For dessert the three of us split the Tres de Leche cake, which was huge, and overly delicious. I was a happy, if not stuffed camper. Mom then went home, and I made my way to Macy’s for some comfy sheets which were beckoning to me. Well, I realized I was a bit of a mo-mo head when in the bedding department I couldn’t find my sheets, nor did I have the name of the company who made them. I sought out a sales person who informed me that they may not have them, as they don’t carry everything the web site does. But she was able to lead me to a sales table which had different Egyptian Cotton sheets on it, which I had to buy each piece separately. I was a bit bummed because I figured I would wind up paying more this way (as opposed to if I bought the bedding set which I had seen on-line.) Well I sure was WRONG. Because for (2) pillow cases, (1) fitted sheet, and (1) flat sheet the total price was $36.00. And they are the most SOFEST sheets I have ever owned. I can’t help but wonder what even higher thread counts feel like. But I am loving my sheets for sure.

Saturday was pretty much an easy day, ran errands, did some shopping, lounged about and then went to dinner again. We went to The Radio Grille, which is a local joint that I used to love. But we were not as impressed as we had been in the past with them. The service was poor, the food mediocre, and I it just wasn’t like how it has been in the years past. I had shared a mushroom appetizer with mom, and had a veggie wrap and French fries. Mom and Ida both had burgers.

Sunday was my REAL birthday, and I was nervous as I had to do my bare stage rehearsal for dance. My original b-day plans had to be cancelled as I needed to be at the rehearsal so we were unsure where we would do dinner. Mom and Ida (not to mention my mckittens and the pooch) gave me absolutely BEAUTIFUL tanzanite earrings, which I am wearing in the 3rd hole on my ears. They’re set in white gold, look like flowers and are HUGE. I got 2 lovely b-day cards from the family…and my cousin Dee called to wish me a happy day, as well as Michelle. From Japan, I got a video from Michelle’s nephew and nieces singing happy b-day to me.

I also had my bare-stage rehearsal yesterday afternoon, and due to getting lost on the way there only managed to participate in the tap dance. It went rather well, except I goofed on one part, but managed to stay in time with my fellow dancers. After that was over and done with…Mom, Ida and I had dinner at Carraba’s Italian restaurant, for the first time. Food was delish, and the pomegranate martini wasn’t too shabby either. Instead of singing in English, they sing happy birthday to you in Italian which is mad cool.

So turning 31 was not bad at all. I was with people who loved me, and got a few pleasant surprises. I wasn’t dreading it like I had dreaded turning 30.

I’m a Good Share-er Mommy…See?

2007-05-30T10:50:00.000-04:00

Last night, as I was in the kitchen, trying to do three things at once (as usual) and I was exhausted. Because you know….I think I am Wonder Woman, when really I am just Super Girl. For example: due to summer hours at work, I am in the office until 5:30 at night, which is not anything different, as I usually work late anyway. But then, I stopped off for tanning, and then home to pick up Ida (and mom by the way) and ran to the craft store Michaela, the party supply store Party Hardy, and then stopped off for dinner. Hence our getting home at 9:15 at night, and I still had to get things done.

Because I have failed to mention that Ida convinced me to start a side business with her. Shah! I am the one doing the works, not her. But wanting to get our company name out there, promised Pal-O-Mine a basket to raffle off (full of our goods) at their event which is taking place at Belmont Race Track on June 1st. So for the past week and a half, I have been making handmade soaps, candles, cookies, dog snacks, and chocolates for this gift basket.

Which brings me back to the kitchen? Last night. At 9:15pm. With me trying to package up all the items to put in the gift basket, as well as separate stuff I had made for a co-workers baby shower tomorrow (i.e. chocolates and cookies.) Plus avoid stepping on Blaze the Wonder Pup who is now 7 months old, and HUGE, and enjoys being right along side me, AND talk to a friend of mine, whose mom passed away and her wake is being held today. Get it? See all the things I had to juggle at once? Did you fail not to see the part where I mentioned Blaze being 7 months old, HUGE, and being under foot?

But I was coping, and getting it all done. The basket was looking oh-so-pretty, and oh-so-full. Lisa was actually laughing at a few of my stupid life stories, Blaze was bringing me her baby tiger (the one plush toy she has yet to murder) and we were fetching it between my getting the basket together. BUT THEN…but I repeat, then I see Blaze happily jogging in to the family room, was a jiggly noise. You know…like as if you were to shake a bottle of pills. And I see that she doesn’t have her squeaky sneaker (which she had switched off from her tiger to fetch with) at my feet. Woooahhhhh nelly, what did she have?

‘Blazie-butt….come. What do you have?’ I call concerned and horror stricken. She turns, with tail a wagging, and I note she DOES have a bottle of pills in her mouth. Blaze comes to me, and looks sad, with the ‘uh-oh….are you mad at me?’ look she has perfected way too quickly. So I remove the bottle from her mouth, and notice that it’s a bottle of my prescription medicine…my Zoloft.

What did Blaze do? And why am I titling this entry I’m a Good Share-er Mommy…See?Simple. Because Blaze the Wonder Pup swapped me out her squeaky sneaker (a toy which makes her happy) for my bottle of Zoloft (which keeps my anxiety at bay.) She was sharing, and expected the trade off to be a valid one. Needless to say, my bottle of meds is back upstairs in the medicine cabinet, and she was given her squeaky sneaker and some baby carrots for not destroying the bottle. Maybe that was Blaze’s way of telling me I don’t need the Zoloft anymore, because I have her. Either way, Blaze is a good share-er

Family Drama never stops…not even for death

2007-05-29T12:14:00.000-04:00

So instead of having a nice Memorial Day Weekend, filled with sun tanning, and b-b-q’s, my family paid our final good-bye’s to my cousin Jack who had passed away in Jamaica. We had finally gotten his body back to the states Thursday night, and held a one-day wake on Friday, followed by the funeral on Saturday. This was done per the undertaker’s instructions, as not to hold his body any longer.

Friday I was standing next to my cousin ‘V’, trying to comfort him (due to the loss of his brother) When Crazy-cat-lady (another cousin of mine who has ‘disowned me, mom and Ida), as well as Crazy-cat-lady’s mother came up to pay their respects to ‘V’. Now, even though they’re not talking to me, I only think it the right thing to do, if they would have said ‘hello’. But they didn’t. They just glared at me, turned and walked away. Now I know what some people would say….why didn’t I make the move and say ‘hello’ to them. But me and mine aren’t the ones with the animosity. So why should I make the first move. I DO however, always go up to Crazy-cat-lady’s father (my uncle) and pay him the respect as he is mom’s brother. After the first viewing, and during the break we were all invited back to Jack’s sister house for a bite to eat, and to rest. However a bunch of Jack’s friends, and his fiancée (is it right to still call her that?) decided to go raise a toast to Jack at the bar where he and Tish had met. So Ida and I went along.

When we all reconvened at the funeral parlor for the second viewing, and I was talking to mom, found out that Crazy-cat-lady and her parents, and brother’s did NOT go back to Jack’s sister’s house. Instead they opted to go all the way towards my house, where Crazy’s married brother lives (across the street from me.) Now, is this anyway to show support to someone who has just lost a sibling?

Saturday, the day of the funeral was no different. The lot of Crazy-cat-lady’s gang sat there with pusses on their face as though it was a chore for them to pay respect to a family member who passed away.) Again, don’t get me wrong…going to funeral’s shouldn’t be something anyone looks forward to ‘oh yes, please let’s go!’ (Note sarcasm.) We get to the church for the mass, and everyone is filtering in to the pews, but being that my mother and I were going to be doing the readings, needed to sit on the end, so as not to climb over everyone. Crazy-cat-lady’s parents sat in the pew in front of us, but Crazy and her baldheaded hubby made a point to try to push past, so as to sit on the end, right behind her parents. Why they couldn’t sit WITH her parents is beyond me. So mum says to her ‘______, Rose and I need the end as we’re doing the readings.’ Crazy rolls her eyes, and instead slides down the pew.

Come the part of mass, when you offer the sign of peace to one another….Crazy-cat-lady’s folks do not turn around to offer it to us, nor does C-C-L. However my mother went out of her way to issue it to Crazy-cat-lady, to make a point. Fast forward to the cemetery; where in this cemetery they still hold the casket graveside, and have everyone gather around for the final parting. As everyone is approaching the grave site, Crazy-cat-lady, her mother, father, and one brother ACTUALLY bum rush mom, myself, my aunt and uncle and three cousin’s so as they can be in the first row around the grave opening. Tell me, what the hell is that all about? I had to bite my lip from laughing as they got pushed back, so as Jack’s siblings and Tish could be the ones immediately around it. One of the funeral directors was handing out roses and carnations randomly so we could place them on the casket, and being that I was handed a carnation, Crazy-cat-lady went and SNATCHED a rose, as I had been handed a carnation. My one cousin ‘D’ (who they do not speak to either) looks at me and says: ‘If you have a rose, does it mean you love him more than if you have a carnation?’ I guess in Crazy-cat-lady’s mind it does.

And so, after the final ceremony, as we were making our way back to our cars, my one aunt asks C-C-L’s mother if they were going back to Jack’s sister’s house where the gathering would take place. To our surprise C-C-L’s mother snapped ‘No! We’re going home.’ My aunt then proceeded to tell Crazy-cat-lady’s mother that she would be attending C-C-L’s baby shower (which she is throwing for herself) on her own, as ‘D’ is not going because they never invite ‘D” sister-in-law. (That is a whole other story.) So of course Crazy-cat-lady’s mother got bent out of shape that cousin ‘D’ is not attending. And then the lot of them drove off in a huff leaving us in a cloud of dust so to speak, stewing in their own juices.

And there you have it folks. Family drama continues on, no matter what. Like I was saying to mom and Ida over the weekend, if anything Jack’s death has showed us that life is too short for this crap…it seems Crazy-cat-lady and her family don’t see it.

Prepairing to say good-bye

2007-05-23T13:46:00.000-04:00

It is with a heavy heart that I type this entry in the blog. The good news is that Jack's body will be back home as of tonight, and Tish will be with those who can comfort her as well. Last night I learned more about the purchasing of a casket on-line than I had ever wanted to know about.

Due to the costs of the (now cancelled) wedding, and all the fees for shipping Jack home Lucretia is trying to NOT NECESSARILY CHEAP-OUT...but be frugil when it comes to the funeral. There is so much drama going on with the wedding vendors, that this is a necessary evil...to be frugil. So she had asked me to find a place, on-line to purchase a casket for her brother which would be less expensive than purchasing it from the funeral home.

Did you know that you could buy a PRE-OWNED casket to place your loved one for eternity? (Needless to say, we are NOT going that route.)

Also, if you were a huge kiss fan, which Jack is...and had the dough to shell out; could have a Kiss themed coffin. (We're NOT going that route either.)

I did get Lucretia in contact with a company, which has moderatly priced caskets which are NEW, and can be delivered today.

Oh yeah, you can also purchase a casket from Costco or eBay as well.

RAGE!

2007-05-20T23:20:00.000-04:00

I AM GOING TO TYPE IN ALL CAPS...BECAUSE I AM ANGRY. I AM TYPING IN RED COLORING BECAUSE I AM FURIOUS. FURIOUS WITH LIFE...THE POWERS THAT BE...GOD...WHOEVER OR WHATEVER YOU BELIEVE IN. I AM HURT...I AM CONFUSED...I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE.

LET ME BACK TRACK...BECAUSE I KNOW MOST OF YOU WON'T UNDERSTAND WHY I AM SO NAGRY AND HURT. THIS PAST THURSDAY; MY COUSIN JACK PASSED AWAY IN AN UNTIMELY MOMENT IN HIS LIFE. HE WAS ONLY 49 YEARS OLD, AND HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN CELEBRATING. HE HAD BEEN CELEBRATING, HE WAS ALIVE AND LOVING LIFE. I WON'T PRETEND THAT JACK AND I WERE UUBER CLOSE...BUT WE WERE CLOSE. AND HE WAS THE TYPE OF MAN THAT WAS THERE FOR YOU, WHEN YOU NEEDED HIM. HE WAS FUNNY, SMART, AND FULL OF LIFE.

JACK HAD MET A VERY NICE WOMAN BY THE NAME OF TISH, AND AFTER DATING FOR MANY YEARS, HE DECIDED TO POP THE QUESTION AND MAKE HER HIS WIFE. THIS WAS A MAN, WHO NEVER WANETD TO GET MARRIED...WHO HAD LOST GIRLFRIENDS IN THE PAST DUE TO HIS RELUNCTEDNESS TO SETTLE DOWN. BUT LAST YEAR HE DECIDED THAT HE WANTED TO TAKE THAT NEXT BIG STEP...AND BECOME TISH'S HUSBAND, PARTNER, AND EXPAND OUR FAMILY. WE WERE ALL ELATED. TISH IS FUNNY, CARING, AND WAS GOOD FOR JACK.

JACK WAS NEVER TRADITIONAL...AND WE ALL ACCEPTED THAT HE MARCHED TO THE BEAT OF HIS OWN DRUM. HE HAD TRAVLED THE WORLD, GOING TO SUCH PLACES SUCH AS TIBET, CHINA, EGYPT, AND BUTON TO NAME A FEW PLACES WHEN HE HAD BEEN A FINE ARTS PACKEST. HE LIKED TO WEAR HIS HAIR LONG...VERY LONG, AND HE HAD SOME VERY UNIQUE FRIENDS. BUT THIS WAS JACK. SO WHEN HE AND TISH ANNOUNCED THAT THEY WERE GOING TO HAVE A DESTINATION WEDDING IN JAMAICA, THE WEST INDIES....WE WERE ALL NOT SURPRISED. YET WE WERE DISAPPOINTED AS NONE OF OUR FAMILY WOULD BE GOING TO JOIN THEM FOR THE WEDDING CERAMONY DUE TO THE COST OF THE TRIP. JACK AND TISH WERE NOT AT ALL OFFENDED OR HURT BECAUSE THEY WERE PLANNING A WEDDING RECEPTION BACK IN NY, ON MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND FOR ALL THEIR FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES TO CELEBRATE THEIR WEDDED BLISS WITH THEM.

THIS PAST WEDNESDAY, JACK AND TISH JETTED OFF TO JAMAICA, AWAITING THE DAY WHERE THEY'D BE PRONOUNCED MAN AND WIFE (WHICH WOULD HAVE BEEN 5/19/07.) THURSDAY THEY PICKED UP SOME FRIENDS FROM THE AIRPORT, WHO WERE IN THEIR WEDDING PARTY, AND WENT BACK TO THEIR HOTEL TO SHOWER AND THEN HAVE SOME DINNER. SOMETIME BEFORE 6PM ON THURSDAY, JACK SUFFERED A MASSIVE HEART ATTACK AND PASSED AWAY.

THIS MAN WAS CHEATED OF A FUTURE. HIS FIANCEE WAS CHEATED OF GROWING OLD WITH THE MAN SHE LOVED. MY FAMILY WAS CHEATED OF ONE OF THE MOST INTRIGUING MEMBERS OF OUR 'CLAN.' WHY WAS HE SNATCHED FROM US NOW? HE HAD CHEATED DEATH ONCE BEFORE, AS YEARS AGO HE WAS IN A HORRIFIC CAR ACCIDENT, AND ALMOST DECAPITATED. WHY WOULD GOD OR WHOEVER YOU BELIEVE IN, LET HIM AND US SURVIVE THAT, ONLY TO STEAL HIM FROM US NOW? WHY WOULD GOD LET HIM PASS AWAY WITHOUT ANY OF HIS BROTHERS OR SISTER, OR REST OF THE FAMILY NEAR BY HIM? I DON'T UNDERSTAND, AND THIS MAKES ME ANGRY. BECAUSE I THOUGHT GOD WAS A LOVING ENTITY...ONE WHO DID NOT HURT. WHY WOULD HE CALL JACK HOME, JUST BEFORE HE MARRIED....JUST WHEN WE WAS TAKING THE NEXT STEP IN LIFE? WHY WOULD GOD PUT JACK'S FAMILY THROUGH THE TORTURE OF TRYING TO GET HIS BODY BACK TO THE STATES, OF HAVING TO CANCEL A WEDDING, OF TRYING TO MAKE SENSE OUT OF AN UNTIMELY DEATH? WHERE IS GOD NOW? AND WHY WOULD HE NOT ALLOW ANY OF US TO SAY GOOD-BYE TO SOMEONE WE LOVE? I AM ANGRY....

Blaze the Wonder Pup GRADUATES Puppy School

2007-04-16T11:50:00.000-04:00

Blaze graduated from Puppy school this past Saturday. The graduation cap was not my twisted idea of cuteness, but the instructors. Blaze had to perform several tasks without fault, which she did rather well, except for one. One task is loose leash walking, where there may be something distracting (such as goodies) on the floor, and Blaze had to walk past it without touching it. Well as we walked past, she stopped and snapped one up, much to mine and Sam (the trainer’s) dismay. SO being the ‘hard-ass’ that I am, I said to Blaze:

“You drop that right now. DROP IT….pleh….pleh.” She didn’t spit it out, but she relaxed her jaws for me to remove it from her mouth. Sam was amazed that Blaze allowed me to remove the treat from her mouth, stating that her own dogs would never have given it up like that. Then I informed her that Blaze and I would walk past these treats several times, which we did, both WITH Blaze ignoring the treats on the floor, and SAM CHUCKING treats at her.

And Blaze passed puppy school. She is a real dog. :-) We are all so proud of her.

But now what do I do with my Saturday mornings???

Movie Maddness

2007-04-13T15:16:00.000-04:00

Top 5 movies that make me laugh:

So I Married An Axe Murderer- I still crack up whenever I think of the ‘Harriett’ song or of the Scottish father (another character played by Mike Myers) singing Rod Stewart songs.

White Chicks- Anything done by the Wayne’s brothers pretty much guarantees belly-laughs. But my two favorite parts of the movie is (a) the lactose-intolerance bathroom scene (because I can truly relate), and (b) when the football dude is tripping out on the dance floor with his glow sticks.

Oscar- This flick got panned by critics and you can never find it on TV. But if you’re Italian or a fan of Tim Curry’s, or like period films this is one that can bring out some laughs. Oh yeah, it is one of the few movies where you can UNDERSTAND why Sly Stallone is saying. ‘Yo!’

The Man With Two Brains- CLASSIC. This is Steve Martin at his best in an ensemble cast. And Bob Barker as ‘the elevator murderer’? I had forgotten all about this movie until I heard them talking about it recently on the radio. Then I found it on TV, and fell in love with it all over again.

Young Frankenstein- Another classic, with a great ensemble cast. There is no one favorite line or part that I can pick out easily.

Top 5 movies that make me cry:

Armageddon- This is the first movie that I SOBBED over in the theater. And even though I know what’s going to happen at the end, when I watch it on DVD I still cry. In my opinion it is not only an action movie, but a father/daughter movie.

Second Hand Lions- This movie has it all, comedy, action, bonding. It is one of the few movies where I like Michael Caine. I also think it’s the last movie Hailey Joel Osmet made. It’s cute. See it.

The Notebook- Ok, this is TOTALLY a chick flick. I admit that freely. But the end is so gut-wrenching that when I was telling the story to my mom and Ida, I had gotten choked up. I love this movie.

8 Below- Thank God Ida and I watched this in the safety of our family room. After the first fifteen minutes of it, I was bawling like a baby. What the dogs had to endure, and how they survived was heartbreaking, and amazing.

Lord Of The Rings: Return of the King- Another movie which could be classified under so many different movie genre’s. But there were so many moving moments, it brings me to tears each time I watch it.

Top 5 movies that I can watch over and over:

Arachnophobia- I hate spiders. I freeze up when I see spiders. But if this movie is on, I have to watch it.

The ‘Burbs- Another movie that I am compelled to watch each and EVERY time it’s on TV. I think everyone can relate to the nosey neighbors, crack up over the whole conspiracy theory about what was really going on. It’s just a GREAT film.

Anger Management- Just seeing Jack Nicholson sing ‘I Feel Pretty’ is worth it. Another movie that just cracks me up.

Practical Magic- Yet another movie that has it all, female bonding, bad-boy love, a hint of supernatural. You laugh, you cry, you jump.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory- Although I like the original, I LOVE the new one. It is dark and twisty, and Willy Wonka isn’t as mean as Gene Wilder’s version.

Top 5 Trilogies I can watch over and over:

Jaws- Who can’t say that they’re equally enthralled and terrified by this trilogy?

Indiana Jones- I think that these movies helped my love for history and exotic places blossom. Plus I always wanted to be an ‘Indie Girl’.

Star Wars- I’m talking about episodes IV, V, and XI….THE ORIGINALS. The special effects for back then were amazing, the acting was not campy, and who could hate Chewbocca?

Lord Of The Rings- Pure genius. Peter Jackson did such an awesome job of directing, and having the best of the best work on this project, that it made me read the books. I am a LOTR geek. I admit it.

The Mummy- Ok, this may not actually classify as a trilogy. But I love The Mummy, The Mummy Returns, and The Scorpion King.

5a. Pirates of the Caribbean. Granted the last one has yet to come out. But I so loved the first two, and Jack Sparrow. How can the third be anything less than amazing?

Corporate Chaos and Employee Anger

2007-03-23T11:57:00.000-04:00

So the PTB (Powers-To-Be) are cracking down on my department at work it seems. Not only is it stupid, but they’re actually cutting their own throats. Because although the administrative support is irked over this….other workers are actually rebelling over it. Why this is coming down now, we’re not sure. Was it one specific employee who ruined it for the rest of the department, again no one is saying anything.

All I know is that it is no longer fun to come to work, and it is totally every man or woman for ourselves. Some people do not get why I am so upset, as well as other administrative staff. But having a FULL HOUR is nice. I used to get a lot done on that hour. I could run errands, whether it is grocery shopping, or pet store run or going to Target to browse. The hour was mine and I was able to clear my head, and still get back to the office ON TIME. Mum and Ida would meet me for lunch on Wednesday. Now if I don’t bring lunch with me, I’m sweating bullets worrying on where I can get to, buy or even eat lunch and make it back in the half hour. It’s just lunacy. Below is an e-mail that had been sent out last night, and then ‘Big Bad’ felt compelled to send yet another one reiterating this one this morning. *Snarls* He is an ass. The PTB’s are all asses. I have come to the conclusion that I either work with all asses or in a proctologist’s office. Below I have included the bulk of the e-mail from last night. Happy reading!

Per departmental policy, you are entitled to two fifteen minute breaks which are paid and one half hour lunch which is not paid.

Breaks are not allowed to be combined with one another nor can they be added to your lunch time.

As mentioned yesterday, I will expect everyone to maintain a set lunch period. In positions that require coverage, employees are to work in shifts. These set times will be communicated by your manager.

In addition, I would like to add some reminders, they are as follows:

Ø Tardiness, all employees are expected to be at your work station by the start of your day. If for any reason you are running late, you should make every attempt to contact your supervisor to notify them of this.

Ø Overtime is by management approval only; no employee is to take it upon one self to assume authorization of overtime. If for any reason your daily responsibilities are not being completed, please communicate this to your supervisor.

Ø Breaks, this time is to be used for personal time such as consuming beverage or snack, personal calls or smoking to list a few. Please pay close attention to the time used.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2007-03-16T09:45:00.000-04:00

St. Patrick's Day is upon us, and this is one day that makes EVERYONE Irish. From bagels dyed green, to rivers also. Everyone celebrates. So sit back, lift a pint, and enjoy these St. Patrick's Day facts I dug up for everyone to enjoy.

In Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day, people traditionally wear a small bunch of shamrocks on their jackets or caps. Children wear orange, white and green badges, and women and girls wear green ribbons in their hair.

Many cities have a St. Patrick’s Day parade. Dublin, the capital of Ireland, has a huge St. Patrick’s Day festival from March 15-19, which features a parade, family carnivals, treasure hunt, dance, theatre and more. In North American, parades are often held on the Sunday before March 17. Some paint the yellow street lines green for the day! In Chicago, the Chicago River is dyed green with a special dye that only lasts a few hours. There has been a St. Patrick’s Day parade in Boston, Massachusetts since 1737. Montreal is home to Canada’s longest running St. Patrick’s Day parade, which began in 1824.

The Irish flag is green, white and orange. The green symbolizes the people of the south, and orange, the people of the north. White represents the peace that brings them together as a nation.

On St. Patrick's Day this Friday, some revelers will raise a pint of stout and wish their companions "Slainté!"—the Irish word, pronounced SLAN-cha, for "health." The toast may brim with scientific truth. At a meeting of the American Heart Association in Orlando, Florida, three years ago, researchers reported that Guinness may be as effective as daily aspirin in reducing the blood clots that cause heart attacks. (The benefit derives from antioxidants, which the researchers said reduce cholesterol deposits on arterial walls. The compounds are found in dark Irish stouts but not their paler cousins.)

Irish brigands kidnapped St. Patrick at 16 and brought him to Ireland. He was sold as a slave in the county of Antrim and served in bondage for six years until he escaped to Gaul, in present-day France. He later returned to his parents' home in Britain, where he had a vision that he would preach to the Irish. After 14 years of study, Patrick returned to Ireland, where he built churches and spread the Christian faith for some 30 years.

In the United States, it's customary to wear green on St. Patrick's Day. But in Ireland the color was long considered to be unlucky, says Bridget Haggerty, author of The Traditional Irish Wedding and the Irish Culture and Customs Web site.

Colonial New York City hosted the first official St. Patrick's Day parade in 1762, when Irish immigrants in the British colonial army marched down city streets. In subsequent years Irish fraternal organizations also held processions to St. Patrick's Cathedral. The various groups merged sometime around 1850 to form a single, grand parade.

The first St. Patrick's Day in America was celebrated in Boston in 1737.

The tradition known as "drowning the shamrock" comes from the Irish superstition that if you leave a shamrock floating on the top of your drink and then drink it, you will have a year of good luck and good fortune.

St. Patrick's Day in Ireland- In the recent past, Saint Patrick's Day was celebrated only as a religious holiday. It became a public holiday only in 1903. The life of Saint Patrick. is celebrated and taught to the masses. People learn from his teachings and try to do as much good for the people around them as Saint Patrick did in his adult life.

How can you tell if an Irishman is having a good time? He’s Dublin over with laughter.

What's Irish and stays out all night? Patty O’Furinture

Since 1980, the Irish president has presented a shamrock to the U.S. President in a White House ceremony held annually around St. Patrick's Day.

U.S. Presidents with Irish ancestry include John Kennedy, Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan. In Canada, statesman Thomas D'Arcy McGee and recent Prime Minister Brian Mulroney were of Irish descent.

St. Patrick is also supposed to have rid Ireland - specifically County Donegal - of a fierce lake monster. After he had killed it, the blood turned the lake red and so since then the lake has been known as Red Lake or Lough Derg. It is now a pilgrimage place and many people go there between 1 June and 15 August in the fond hope that the journey will rid them of all their sins.

St. Patrick built the first church in Ireland at Mag-inis.

St. Patrick ordered that after death he be buried wherever the oxen pulling his funeral cart stopped. They reportedly didn't go further than Downpatrick, so he's buried somewhere there.

It's all about ME! 100 facts about Orelinde

2007-03-09T10:46:00.000-05:00

I am shy. It’s true. Most people don’t believe me when I tell them of my shyness, saying how friendly I am. But I am incredibly shy. Once I feel comfortable with you, THEN I can open up and be myself. Of course pouring my soul out in a blog does not count for me not being shy. Because I am. Shy.

I’ve always wanted to dance with someone I love under the moon or in the rain. To date, I’ve done neither.

My favorite dessert is Baklava. I love it. A friend just came back from Turkey, and brought me a bunch. As for food-food I love Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms.

It has taken a long time for my mom and me to become friends. Real friends…the type where we can confide in one another. At 30 years of age I still won’t share everything with her, but know that she will listen to me with open ears. This is still something new and a work in progress.

I have kept the right people out of my heart & life, and let the wrong ones in. I have been misguided because I wanted to be liked by that person, used, and I occasionally went against what I believed in or wanted to do or say because of this.

Because of # 6 I have finally learned to be my own person and stand up for myself. However in doing this, I have lost ‘so-called friends’ and even family members.

Losing my Uncle Frank is still my biggest heartbreak. He had so much to give to those he loved, and he never thought of himself. He was my dad in all sense, my best friend, and someone just to hang out with. It will be seven years this May that he passed on, and I can’t hear his voice in my head. I miss him.

I still cry at the end of Armageddon. The first time I saw it in the theater I sobbed. And even though I know, and prepare myself for Bruce Willis sacrificing himself, I still cry.

Grocery shopping relaxes me.

The way I wake up with a smile on my face is by having Pooka or Cro`i purr me awake, or give me kisses.

Up until a year ago I still slept with a stuffed animal, my wolf named Dakota. Dakota has been with me for quite some time, has traveled with me, and is still a source of comfort.

I am totally in to the standards station on my Sirius radio…and it scares me. I can not get enough of Tony Bennett or even Louie Armstrong and Nat ‘King’ Cole.

One day I will get to Ireland. I know this. It is something I have to do.

When I had gone down to San Antonio, TX I did not want to come back to NY. I felt like I belonged there.

I still get scared of: the dark, Childs Play movies, clowns, and silly stuff like shark attacks or alien invasions.

I have 10 tattoos and can honestly say that I am done.

Joe Perry in Aerosmith is still the BEST guitarist I have ever seen play. And I still think he is hot.

For 12 weeks, (and then some) I was totally blinded by a new rock love: Gilby Clarke. Thanks to RockStar SuperNova, I just thought Gilby was the coolest thing since sliced white bread. But then I got to experience Rockstar SuperNova live, and *shakes head*. Yeah, Gilby Clarke, not a rocker. No where near energetic. And totally not in any close range as Joe Perry. So nope…no more Gilby love. That’s it. Done.

I once drank so much that I passed out with my head in a waste paper basket while hurling. Prior to passing out I drunken dialed this guy I was seeing and left some very interesting messages. I woke up with a knot on my forehead from where it hit the rim of the waste paper basket.

I have also learned my lesson that: Jack Daniels and Orelinde do not mix. Unless you want to see me do things I would never do sober….or even slightly drunk.

The most free I have ever felt was when I both jet skied in the Bahamas, and when I was a little kid and went snow mobiling with my aunt.

I hate the cold.

I’m not sure if I could ever give myself over to someone 100%.

I enjoy dancing.

My favorite book is ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee. I have also seen the movie too…but it doesn’t do the book justice. However one of my favorite author’s is Nora Roberts.

I can watch a horror movie, and walk away…but I can’t read a horror book. My imagination runs away with me. I think the only Stephen King book I have read is ‘Salem’s Lot.’

Which is ironic, because one of my favorite places to visit is Salem, MA. It really is a lovely little town, with the friendliest of people.

I do believe in reincarnation. I have for a very long time.

The perfume I wear has cannabis in it.

I slack off in the office more than I really should. But I still get the job done, and do it well. So what does that tell you?

I love the ‘Happy Bunny’ line. I think the sayings are hysterical and oh-so-true. I have a collection of ‘Happy Bunny’ stickers and periodically decorate my truck with one.

I also love Scooby Doo. Always have…always will.

It makes me wonder: If a man is driving a car with the bumper sticker which read ‘I am a Goddess’, what does it mean? Is he trying to tell the world something or does he share the car with a woman? I saw this on the expressway this morning.

One of my guilty pleasures: I like the Spice Girls. What’s even worse is that I own the Spice Girl: Spice World movie.

I mostly only wear MAC makeup. Yes it’s more expensive. But it does have better quality.

My favorite holidays are Halloween due to the season, and festivities. Also Thanksgiving because of all the scrummy foods.

I will purposely wear black on Valentines Day.

Not that I want to be one…but if I was a man and my name was Robert, I would go by the nickname of Rob. Not Bob. Bob is just *blech*. Bob. Bob-o…Boobie….it’s just horrid.

I prefer silver or white gold to yellow gold.

When I was a kid, I hated pearls (which are my birthstone.) Now I am actually quite fond of them.

When I was a kid, I loved seafood…then for a very long time I HATED it. You couldn’t even get me to eat tuna fish. The past couple of years I have been a fan of various seafood.

Because of my tummy problems, there are a lot of foods that I love, but can no longer eat. This makes me very sad.

I dropped out of college three times: the first to work full time, the second because a guy I was dating made me, and also because I couldn’t pass algebra. The third because I no longer had time to work and go to school. I regret the third time the most.

One of my dreams is to have my own free-lance baking company. Or to open a small café.

If I could live anywhere in the world it would either be NYC or California. Or Ireland….but the Ireland thing is just a guess as I’ve never been there. So to be realistic, I’ll stick with NYC or California.

I have thought of alternative methods to child conception. If I will do that, I do not know.

When I was a teenager, rode the roller coaster in Adventureland 27 times in a row.

I can live alone and have no problem being on my own….but I’m afraid of being alone. Does that make sense?

I regret the period of time that my Uncle Frank and I went through where we did not get along. I was in my late teens, and he was getting very sick. However we did find our way back to one another, long before he passed away. But I still wish we didn’t lose that time.

My favorite color is red.

Since the age of 14 I have dyed my hair various colors. When I was 30, did my hair a blondish color. I’ve recently gone back to my NATURAL color. I am happy that I did. Does this mean I’ll never dye my hair again? Hell no.

When I was elementary school aged, my music idols were Boy George and Michael Jackson. My friends and I used to argue as to who liked them more, and tell tales of either Boy George or Michael Jackson coming to visit us.

I wish I could have experienced the 1960’s as they happened. I feel I am a belated hippie.

I am a HUGE fan of personal hygiene. I NEED to shower or at least wash every day. I have learned this when I went to the last MTV Woodstock and was unable to find the outdoor showers. I couldn’t rest until I showered.

I had accidentally run in to Jon Bon Jovi when I was a teenager. I was so tongue-tied and in shock, I never even got to ask him for an autograph. If I ever ran in to Joe Perry now, it would probably be the same way.

I’m really weird about the textures of food I put in to my mouth. It took me a long time to eat a raisin because of it being wrinkled. And it’s also weird because I’ll only eat red grapes (again something I’ve just started doing), and my oranges need to have NO seeds in them.

I wish the classic Muppet show was still on tv. I loved that program.

When taking acting lessons I was struck with a massive case of stage fright. To this day I hate public speaking or having the attention solely on me.

I prefer dark chocolate to milk chocolate.

Somehow I have been delegated as department baker when it comes to coworker’s birthdays.

A guaranteed way for my mother and me to make the other laugh is to utter the simple words of Carlos Chang.

My first trip that I can remember taking was to Miami, Florida. I remember going to Sea World, and my little halter top fell down. I was mortified because the killer whales saw my ‘ninnies.’ I also remember going to dinner in a fancy dining room, and giant bowls of matzo ball soup. I remember the beach, and swimming in a pool…being on a boat with a little boy. I was three years old.

The first time my mom and I went away together was when I was 11 years old. It was to Florida, visiting old neighbors of ours. Mom also took me to Disney World, and tricked me in to going on the Haunted Mansion. It was great! I also had two boys fighting over me. I also still remember these two boys’ names: Chris & Ryan. I liked Ryan more.

My first crush was when I was 3 years old. It was on our neighbor’s son, Michael. It didn’t matter than Michael was like 30 years old. He was my ‘Prince Charming’, rode a motor cycle, had a rose tattoo on his pec, and doted on me. He also tattle-tailed on me streaking through the front yard at the young age of three years old.

I would have loved to have had a career in dance.

I have started to get back in to the dating pool thanks to on-line dating. Thus far I have met one decent person.

I have hung out with Hell’s Angels on several occasions. They were very nice people.

Once upon a time, I was in a bar fight in a male review venue. The fight was not initiated by me…but for defending Ida as a girl kept pushing her.

I am the Queen of the gay folk. I’m not belittling or making fun of people’s sexual preferences. But it just seems that men who like men just flock to me-in my vets office, my hairdresser(s), walking thru the Village in NYC, on vacation. I befriend them. I am a beard for hire :-)

When I croak, I want to be cremated.

I used to have my belly button pierced. I liked having it, however my body didn’t. As it so happens, my body rejects any piercing other than my ears. So now I have 3 holes in each ear.

When I was in the first grade I insisted on having peanut butter and (grape) jelly sandwich’s for lunch EVERY day. Mom begged me to switch off but I refused.

I love animals, and have always had dogs and cats as pets. I can honestly say I think I like cats better.

At the age of 30, I’ve had quite a bit of injuries: left knee has cartilage deteriorating and a baker’s cyst behind the knee cap, a small tear in the meniscus on my right knee. A small tear in my right rotator cuff, a hairline fracture of the clavicle, broke both my left and right pinky fingers. Also have two compressed discs in my lower back due to a fall. Yep, I’m a mess. Oh yeah, had seven stitches across the bridge of my nose.

My favorite brand of nail polish is OPI. Not only is the quality good, but the have the craziest names for their colors.

I enjoy reading or hearing gossip on celebrities, however I do believe they’re entitled to their privacy.

I’ll never forget where I was when I heard the news of both: Princess Diana’s death, as well as the attack on the WTC.

I love spicy food. Mo’ hotter….mo’ better. I also like ethnic foods such as Indian, Thai, and Greek, and Mexican.

It has now taken me three days to compile this list of facts about me. I want to list 100 facts about myself and it is now becoming a bit difficult thinking of interesting things to share.

If it wasn’t for one of my friends doing a list about herself on her blog, the thought would have never crossed my mind to do one about me.

When I was 5 years old I wanted to be a bull fighter. When I was 6 years old, I wanted to be a stock car driver. When I was 17-20 years old I had wanted to be a police officer. None of these were professions my mother really wanted me to pursue. But she always told me that ‘girl’s can be anything they wanted to be.’

Sometimes when I am dreaming at night, they’re so detailed, it feels like they’re real and not actually dreams. When this happens I often wake up exhausted in the morning.

I am a HUGE vampire fan. I even have custom made fangs.

Ida and I both have the same tattoo, it the elvish symbol for the # 2. We even have it on the same part of our bodies. We did this to symbolize our bond- being that she’s my Godmother, my aunt, and best friend.

I suffer from sinus and seasonal allergies which are getting worse as I get older.

My favorite Bath & Bodyworks scent is Juniper Breeze. I used to douse myself with the all the products. However due to my sinus problems I can no longer wear it as it gives me headaches. But I love to smell it on people. Now my favorite Bath & Bodyworks scent is Moonlit Path.

I prefer Fredrick’s of Hollywood merchandise over Victoria’s Secret. Fredrick’s carries items for ‘real sized’ women.

I love to wear funky socks or undies. The last set of undies I bought had Animal and Kermit the Frog printed on them.

I have not seen my father since I was 17 years old. This was his doing. Although I can not ever consider him my ‘dad’…I do contemplate reaching out to say ‘hello’ to him from time to time. But then I squash that idea as quickly as it comes because I know he is still the same man he was when he did used to interact with me.

I always wished my mother would have found a nice man to settle down with.

One time my friend Scott planted a kiss on me. To this day I compare all my kisses to that one.

I think getting married in Las Vegas, at The Excalibur or even Treasure Island would be SO cool.

Up until we had gotten my dog Scruffy (I was 13 years old) we never had much luck with owning pets for various reasons. We had Scruffy for 16 years though.

My favorite breakfast food is oatmeal. I love to mix things in with it: cinnamon, apples or strawberries, canned pumpkin, craisins, raisins, or even almond extract. You can do SO much with oatmeal.

I still enjoy going pumpkin picking or dressing up for Halloween. I never want to lose that joy.

Once my family took a vacation to Stowe, Vermont. My cousin and I were signed up for a 20 mile bike ride. To this day, we still feel the agony in our legs when we reminisce over it.

I am NOT a morning person.

One of my childhood memories is waking up and smelling Channel no. 5 and watching Ida get dressed for work. I was in kindergarten, and to this day, Channel no. 5 brings me back to that time.

I hate spiders. I freeze up when I see one and call for someone to ‘come rescue me’.

When I was little, Ida showed me how to make this somewhat funny-yet ugly face, which entails turning your bottom lip inside out. She said her baby brother used to do it. To this day I can still do it on command, but Ida hates when I make the face. However I don’t his the skill to raise one eyebrow at a time.

Bide-A-Wee…..more like Hose-A-Me

2007-02-22T15:56:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time there was a family, and for the most part they were a loving family in search of a nice puppy needing a loving home. This nice family didn’t want to buy a pet, as they had always rescued or adopted their pets. So, one family member, oh…we’ll call her ORELINDE; went in search of a puppy to bring in to their home. And so this puppy was found, at the Bide-A-Wee animal shelter.

And this little puppy won the hearts of this loving family, and when the family asked about adoption fees was given the best news. This puppy, who, oh….we’ll call her BLAZE; had already been spayed, 2 weeks of free medical care, her Rabies shot, and had ALL her shots, just needing one round of boosters. And with a ‘donation’ of $100.00 Blaze and her family went home to live a long and happy life.

Then came the date when Blaze needed her booster shot, January 26th when Orelinde brought Blaze back to Bide-A-Wee (under the premise that it would cost her $65.00) for the booster got hit with a bill for $72.00 which included: Distemper booster, which would need to be followed by a third and final booster, as well as her poop exam and waste disposal fee, and heartworm meds. (which she’ll be on for life because ALL dogs need this medication.) And so we were told: Blaze is in good health, is up-to-date on all shots, and just needed her final distemper booster.

La-la-la…Orelinde takes her fast growing, kooky-but-lovable puppy to a real vet on February 16th, for the LAST (booya!) Distemper shot. This is it, no more huge bills pertaining to puppy-face. But then the whole Bide-A-Wee ruse comes clean. Because the vet notices that Blaze NEVER had Rabies shot. And EVEN THOUGH we had a vaccine tag for the Rabies, there was NO paperwork. So I was told to call Bide-A-Wee and ask for the paperwork. If she didn’t have the shot, then the vet would be ‘more than happy to administer the vaccine when I brought her back for the Lymes vaccine booster in 3 weeks.) So there I was hosed for 3 booster shots: the final distemper, and two of the Lymes, plus a 6-month supply of her heartworm meds, and the office visit at the all low-price of: $152.00

And here we are, calling back and forth between yesterday and today, and talking with some helpful and NASTIER Bide-A-Wee employees. Because Bide-A-Wee did NOT ever give her the Rabies vaccine as she was ‘too young’ and they are not going to honor the 2-week free of charge medical agreement if they administer the shot now because we’re past that date. When I questioned why she was never given the Rabies shot, back on January 26th when I went for the booster from them, was told ‘no idea.’ The manager for the adoption center today told me that the waiver I signed when adopting Blaze states that I’m aware of absorbing any and all medical responsibilities for the pet I’ve adopted. Under no circumstance will Hose-A-Me, oops, I mean Bide-A-Wee honor their mistake or misguiding, or outright lie and give my loveable pooch her shot. This now means that I will have to pay out even more money for my free pooch. Because, ya know, Bide-A-Wee is a non-profit organization. I didn’t buuuuuy a pet….I’ve rescuuuuued a pet..

New Zealand- home of the Hobbits and giant sea creatures

2007-02-22T11:56:00.000-05:00

New Zealand fishermen catch rare squid

By RAY LILLEY, Associated Press Writer2 hours, 19 minutes ago

A fishing crew has caught a colossal squid that could weigh a half-ton and prove to be the biggest specimen ever landed, a fisheries official said Thursday.
The squid, weighing an estimated 990 lbs and about 39 feet long, took two hours to land in Antarctic waters, New Zealand Fisheries Minister Jim Anderton said.
The fishermen were catching Patagonian toothfish, sold under the name Chilean sea bass, south of New Zealand "and the squid was eating a hooked toothfish when it was hauled from the deep," Anderton said.
The fishing crew and a fisheries official on board their ship estimated the length and weight of the squid: Detailed, official measurements have not been made. The date when the colossus was caught also was not disclosed.
Colossal squid, known by the scientific name Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni, are estimated to grow up to 46 feet long and have long been one of the most mysterious creatures of the deep ocean.
If original estimates are correct, the squid would be 330 pounds heavier than the next biggest specimen ever found.
"I can assure you that this is going to draw phenomenal interest. It is truly amazing," said Dr. Steve O'Shea, a squid expert at the Auckland University of Technology. If calamari rings were made from the squid they would be the size of tractor tires, he added.
Colossal squid can descend to 6,500 feet and are extremely active, aggressive hunters, he said.
The frozen squid will be transported to New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa, in the capital, Wellington, to be preserved for scientific study.
Marine scientists "will be very interested in this amazing creature as it adds immeasurably to our understanding of the marine environment," Anderton said.
Colossal squid are found in Antarctic waters and are not related to giant squid found round the coast of New Zealand. Giant squid grow up to 39 feet long, but are not as heavy as colossal squid.

Was that a glass shattering or my venier cracking

2007-02-21T11:50:00.000-05:00

I feel so fragile today. This is not something that I normally admit to my friends or family, let alone strangers. But life has funny ways of knocking you on your ass, just when you think you can take on the world, and life is a-o-k.

My mom has had problems with her eyes all her life, from childhood she has been nearsighted in one eye and farsighted in the other. You can only imagine the fun she had with eye glasses, and her vision.

A few years back she was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration. And I never really understood what it is, other than she was having problems seeing. At 65 years old mom uses a magnifier glass to read almost everything. When we eat out, she has a hard time navigating the menu, but makes the most of her situation. I know this is a horrible thing for her to endure, because not only does she still work, and drive…but reading has always been one of her greatest passions. So you can imagine what it is like for her to struggle with books. Because, lets face it…the large print books aren’t always what she wants to read.

Mom periodically goes for laser treatment to try to stop the hemorrhaging. But upon my research today, the only outcome of this is her losing her eyesight. If anyone is interested, here are some links that I had been checking out:

Macular degeneration: Causes - MayoClinic.com

Macular Degeneration: Risk Factors

Macular Degeneration

http://www.macugen.com/

It really sucks when something bad is happening to someone you love. And I guess (and yes I know she isn’t terminal) that I’m just overly sensitive. She’s my mom…the only parent I have. And even though we’ve had our ups and downs, and our downs were like being in a gully…this is hitting me harder than I ever thought. Because I know mom has other medical problems too, and I guess my mind is just racing. Because deep down I know the road we’re going. I know where this is going to lead. And I know that it has taken me a very long time to get over losing my Uncle Frank, but by bit as his body was broken down by Diabetes.

So I’m a little fragile today. And I really just want to crawl back in to bed, cuddle with my cats, and sleep. But I can’t. Because I have to work. And if I ask to leave, questions will be asked. And If I do leave, I will not have conquered my anxiety today. But I feel fragile, and if I’m so fragile, how will I have the strength to conquer the anxiety? So don’t mind me as I ramble today…I’ll be ok. I have to be.

Lawmakers Reject Bill to Honor Bono -and Stupid politician crap

2007-02-20T14:37:00.000-05:00

**Okay, just as a precursor, this is an article I found on AOL this morning when I signed on to check mail and kill time before dragging my butt to work. I happen to appreciate the work, and respect Bono for what he is trying to do with the third world countries. Like him, hate him, whatever. But don't politicians think any more before they open their mouths? Don't politicians have advisors and speach writers who say, 'erm mayhap you phrase this differently?' I don't know what the hell is going on these days, but people really need to think before they speak, and try to realize that the world isn't as large as it used to be. Maybe I should just go ahead and say I can't tolorate ignorance?**

Lawmakers Reject Bill to Honor Bono
AP
BISMARCK, N.D. (Feb. 16) - Bono has plenty of fans. But don't count North Dakota lawmakers among them.

Lawmakers in the House defeated a resolution 58-35 Thursday to honor the U2 frontman for his advocacy of debt relief for Third World countries, saying the Irish rocker had no connection to the state.

Fargo state Rep. Scot Kelsh, who sponsored the measure, said he got the idea for the resolution from a magazine published by the National Conference of State Legislatures, which mentioned that no state at the time had approved a resolution to honor the singer.

"This is something that does not matter to us as citizens of North Dakota, the United States, and the world at large," Kelsh said.

Rep. Gil Herbel, a Republican, said he initially thought the resolution referred to Sonny Bono , the former singer, Republican congressman and husband of Cher .

"When I saw the resolution, I was looking for Cher 's name in there," Herbel said.

Copyright 2007 The Associated Press. The information contained in the AP news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press. All active hyperlinks have been inserted by AOL.
2007-02-16 06:50:23

I don’t understand the male species……Really I don’t.

2007-02-13T09:32:00.000-05:00

And for that matter, I don’t understand Match.com either. In a past post, I shared the news that annoying co-worker informed me that I need to get out and start dating. And for some insane reason, I listened to him. My friend Claire asked me about on-line dating (As she is in a good relationship with a nice guy. A nice guy who doesn’t have any brothers…lol.) And I decided to reactivate my profile on www.match.com and update the photo and see what fish were out there.

I don’t lie about my likes, hobbies, or body type in my profile. Because what good would that do? If it ever gets to meeting one of these guys, can’t snap my fingers and look like Gretchen Mohl. I try to get across my wittiness, my love of family and friends, and just be myself. If anyone does want to look, my screen name on match is Orelinde…let me know what you think, in a critiquing manner, insight, pointers, and suggestions are most appreciated.

Anyway, I was brave and reached out and both e-mailed and *winked* at some guys, who Match.com said met my criteria and who I met theirs. (Because, Dr. Phil knows it all.) Well one guy wrote me back and said he didn’t think we were a match. Ok, at least he was nice enough than to just leave me hanging. The majority of the other guys never responded, after checking out my photo. When you sign up for match, there is this thing you must fill out, that allows you to say what: body type, age group, turn-on’s and turn-off’s, etc. that you’re looking for or not wanting in a mate. So if I reach out to a guy, who STATES (body type: about average, curvy) is ok….and they look at my photo….then why are they saying I am not what they’re looking for? I DON’T GET IT! I DON’T! I mean, I am not an Angelina Jolie, but I also don’t think I look like leather face either.

Also, it is taking me forever to get my primary photo excepted on Match.com. I do have three additional photos on my profile. So I then decided to crop one photo and post it as my primary, and it keeps posting an OLD photo of me, from when I was on Match.com in the past. So then I try to e-mail Match my photo that I want to use, and they keep telling me that no photo is attached to the e-mail. ARGH!!!!! *Pulling hair* I don’t understand this! Am I doomed to be single forever? Is Match.com and Dr. Phil both ass-munches, and sucking single people dry? Has the male species just decided to become un-communicative with Orelinde? Damn you www.match.com ! Damn you Dr. Phil! Damn you annoying co-worker who thinks I need to be out and dating!

The life and times of Orelinde Inglorion

2007-02-06T14:54:00.000-05:00

Orelinde is making some changes:

Well, as some of us may know, the way I got in to blogging in the first place was by generating a blog based on my dating experiences. However, that blog dried up real fast, as fast as my dating spell did. And then I generated my daily blog {which I love.}

During my ‘quiet dating time’ I have been single, and for the most part liking my life. I come and go as I please; following my own interests and not feeling like I need to alter my life or myself to please anyone. I dyed my hair blond in July, and just this past weekend returned to my NATURAL color (a color I haven’t been in 16 years.) I go away on min-vacations when I want, and don’t stress if I need to stay late in the office, is the male part of the bane-to-my-existence that I have posted about here frequently. I also knowworrying if someone is going to get pissed that I am not at their beck-and-call. Yes, I have dated during this time, but it didn’t go ANYWHERE, and the last dude was married as he eventually revealed to me.

So here I’ve been, enjoying my life, and enjoying my time. Until yesterday when an ever-so-annoying co-worker asked me for the umpteenth time when was I going to get busy and start dating someone. Yes, the co-worker who was so brazen as to ask me this he wasn’t asking me this, because he is interested in me, as I know his taste in women. (Thank God I don’t fit it.) He just wants to see me involved with someone and happy, which I guess is nice.

None of my friends have ‘nice’ friends that they’d want to introduce, and all of my friends are either happily involved or married to someone. I have gone out, not looking to ‘meet’ someone, and have done the museum, wine tasting, just go and have fun thing without meeting anyone. This brings me back to on-line dating. I am going to try this for 3-months and see what happens. My pal Claire is going to be my voice of reason, and sounding board. Perhaps I will meet someone who is ‘the one’. Perhaps I’ll go on some dates and get my feet wet again. No matter what, I hope to have some juicy stuff to share with you all, on the dating blog. However I’ll have to be real careful with what I type. Because you never know who’s reading. *Wink*

Baby its cold outside!!!

2007-02-06T09:41:00.000-05:00

Ok, I am all for changes in season, and snow and understand that it is February and is supposed to be COLD. But we haven’t had any real snow, and now New York is experiencing a frigid cold snap, along with other states. But last night I have decided enough is enough.

Blaze the wonder-pup needs to do her puppy homework, ever night. This includes loose leash walking, which INCLUDES yours truly walking with her. I have now branched our daily walks to: going up our block, turning on to a main road to go around the corner, where stores are, looping around to a side street to come back to our block and home. This is so she can experience traffic and, smells, and learn the proper way to walk on the leash.

Last night, I get home from work, and decide to take her out right away, as opposed to feeding her and then going. Because I know me, and once I got comfy in the warm house, wouldn’t want to venture out again. So grabbing the clicker and her baggie of treats, Blaze the wonder-pup and I venture out in the winter cold…trying not to think of how cold it is. Up our block we get, with a few pauses to reward her for walking. Turn on to the busy street and switch her side to walk as she still is freaked by the traffic noises. Ok, my nose is starting to sniffle, and my hands are feeling the cold quite sharply. Another treat or two, and I notice Blaze is shivering too. Another turn, and now we’re walking past the store fronts, and I notice my pace is picking up as my hands are experiencing SHARP pains, and I can barely flex my fingers. Blaze is walking like a trooper now, and I can’t help but wonder if she is just as anxious to get home, so isn’t going to screw up and try to go between my legs.
Turn the corner again, and we meet a tow truck, which noise startles Blaze, and she switches her walking side again, and decides to pee on the corner. I think she would have done something else, but by this time my eyes were watering as the pain in my fingers were so sharp; it actually felt like someone was sawing thru the bone. Back on to our block THANK GOD, and I can tell the two of us had had enough of this. She was straining at the leash, walking on one side, and I didn’t care. (Bad training skills?) Because I needed to get home. By the time we got to the front door, Ida had been in the hallway, and I had needed her to open the door, and take my gloves off. My hands we whitish, with flaming red patches, and as I put the under water to warm, screamed in pain. I have never felt anything like this. Ida poured me a sherry to warm up and I wrapped my hands in towels to try and warm them.

So THAT’S how cold it is here. And this is what I probably have to look forward to tonight as well. But not only do I cringe about that…but I cringe thinking of all the homeless people New York and other states have who are sleeping out in this weather. I know how many must be freezing to death, or freeze to death, literally during the night because they refuse to go to shelters.

RockStar: SuperNova concert 1/31/07 Recap

2007-02-01T10:42:00.000-05:00

“I love you Gilby Clarke”…and other cliché’s such as that!

I would just like to precursor this post with a shout out to my girl Claire. And in a public forum, will admit: GILBY CLARKE is not an awesome rocker. I don’t know what I was thinking…but he is still eye candy to me. Claire…you were right…I was wrong…and I don’t love you anymore Gilby Clarke! {Claire used to mock my temporary Gilby love.}
With that out of the way, I would like to share my RockStar: SuperNova concert experience with you all. First of all, I was shocked with the amount of kids…and when I say kids I’m talking young kids, like 9years and up at the show. Also my tickets were not as great as I thought. Because we were in row N, in orchestra and I thought we’d be closer to the stage. But at Radio City Music Hall, the seat closer to the stage are double lettered such as AA, BB, CC, etc., then the single letters start. So our seats were good, just not GREAT. What was cool though, was I was able to sneak lower and get some better pix (which I will post in the next few days) than from my seat because yeah, the Sony Cyber Shot is not as awesome with the concert photos as it is with regular photos.
Dilana was the first to take the stage, and she was A-MAZ-ING. I would totally buy her cd, and also see her in concert. Magni is playing with her which is cool too. But she sounded just as she had on TV, and her energy is great. She is my height, if not just a smidge shorter. They did four songs, opening with Roxanne and then Toby took the stage with his band. All I can say is THANK YOU GOD that he is not fronting SuperNova. I don’t understand what was going on with the sound system because you could hear Dilana great. Then when Toby’s band took the stage, it was SO LOUD (and no the cliché, ‘if it’s too loud, you’re too old’ does not fit here.) It was so loud, that you couldn’t hear what they were singing, and what you could make out SUCKED. Plus he has that crackly, foggy, scratchy filtering going on, so his voice wasn’t that clear anyway. He did two cover tunes, and that was the only good thing about his time playing. Toby then announced that downstairs, he, Magni, and Dilana would be posing for photos and signing stuff.
So down I went, feeling somewhat like a groupie, youngster and waited, and waited. It was then announced that they would not be signing until 9:45, and at that point, The Panic Channel (Dave Navarro’s band) had just gone on stage. After missing three of their songs, and it only being 9:15, I decided to go back up to see TPC play. So back to my seat I went, and listened…and cringed. Because I own TPC cd, and they sound way better on cd, than live. Dave Navarro did NOT rock out at all, moved a round a bit, but nothing crazy, no guitar smashing…no crowd cruising. Just did circles on stage. They were really loud, but not as loud as when Toby was on stage, so at least you could understand what they were singing. Then Steve Issacs, (the lead singer) decides he is going to get political. And I’ll be a hypocrite. Yes, I’m a huge fan of U2/Bono, and the work that Bono does. But I do not believe politics should be brought to a concert. And Steve Issacs wasn’t very diplomatic. Steve goes up in the side balcony seats and starts talking about people lying, and people lying to gain power. And he loves that in this country you can agree to disagree. With that he launches in to bad mouthing President Bush, and talking about how he’s a liar, etc….but even if we hate the president, we can love our brothers and sisters over seas. Well! The crowd wasn’t very happy and one woman in the row in front of us got actually belligerent. Dilana joined The Panic Channel to sing ‘Highway To Hell’ and then it was time for SuperNova.
And finally it was time. Ida and I were joking around, chanting “Tommy! Gilby! Tommy!” and then I actually heard someone (not me Claire) scream “I LOVE YOU GILBY CLARKE! YOU ROCK!” As Gilby walked on to the stage. Tommy had a new drum kit and it is awesome. And the crowd went wild when Lukas made his appearance. RockStar: SuperNova caused mixed feelings in me seeing them live. Yes, the music was loud…and you could understand what they were singing. But after three songs, Lukas and his voice wore thin. I still have NO IDEA what Jason and Tommy were thinking, to pick him. Now, I like my music loud, I like it raw…angry…full of emotion or even to tell a story. I like my music to course thru my body, and make me not sit once. I love to watch the band members and get a charge off their juice. GILBY CLARKE was a thud! Now, aside from knowing these guys are older, I decided to do my homework this morning. Gilby Clarke was born in 1962, making him 44/45 years old. He did not rush around the stage, play off Lukas, move much, or give any energy to the audience. Joe Perry-born in 1950, 12 years older than Gilby. You can not glue him to one spot when he plays for ANYTHING. He makes me want to BE the guitar. He has an energy level which I wish I had. Keith Richards-born in 1943, 19 years older than Gilby. Need I say any more? Gene Simmons-born in 1949, 13 years older than Gilby. Again, the energy and enthusiasm just oozes from him. And Eric Clapton-born in 1945, making him 17 years older than Gilby. Eric Clapton is still slow-hand, and still gives an amazing show, inspiring many people of all ages to pick up a guitar and play. Not you Gilby! NOT YOU! My Gilby-lust has gone down the drain.
Lukas just looks like a monchichi, and has not altered his glam style. Sparkly mic, sparkles on his face, intense eyeliner. And the bass player who is standing in for Jason Newsted? So looks like he does not want to be there. Tommy Lee carried the show…hands down. His enthusiasm, his flair…he did it. Maybe the guys were tired. Maybe it was just an off night. I do know there was some bad feedback at one point during their set…and I did feel bad when a HUGE chunk of audience walked out. SuperNova wrapped things up at 11:30, and did one song for an encore: The Rolling Stones cover. Would I go to see them again? Yes, but if it was an outdoor venue and if Jason was on Bass. I have to say I did buy their cd last night, and the cd is worth it.

Seperated at birth?

If the paw print doesn’t fit…you must acquit!

2007-01-19T14:57:00.000-05:00

Murder & Mayham in my garage!

Pooka and Cro`i for some time have been allowed to play both in the basement and garage as it gives them a change of scenery since they are not allowed outside. They also have a bevy of little toy mice: some felt, some rabbit fur covered, which they just adore. We have gone thru quit a bit of toy mice over the course of the years, their most prized one being a pink yarn one with fur tail on a string called Seymour Collin. (Because everyone, ok every red-blooded girl wants to see more Collin Farrell.)

So last night as I sat down to have a cup of tea with mom, the garage door was opened a crack as the cats were in the garage playing. Blaze was sitting near us gnawing on a baby carrot (one of her favorite treats), and we noticed Cro`i running in and out of the garage like a looneytoon. I finish my tea and go to try and get Pooka inside, as it was freezing and I wanted to close up for the night when I stumbled across a strange sight. A few feet in to the garage is Pooka sitting on the floor, looking down at a little gray object. So I start to approach to get him and his toy mouse when I stop. I stop because something about the toy mouse doesn’t site quite right with me. “Pooka…what is that?” I ask, as if he’s really going to answer me. Blaze then comes in to investigate, and Pooka runs out, with Cro`i taking place sitting watch over their ‘toy’. I can’t take my eyes off their mouse, as it seems to look longer than normal. Then I realize the mouse’s tail IS longer than normal!

That isn’t their toy mouse…I’ve stumbled upon a murdered field mice! My cats, after 4 years killed something to my knowledge. “Help! I need help!” I call, as I stare in horror, trying to decide which of my mckittens were the murdered, keep Blaze back from rushing the carcass and using it as a chew toy, and decide how the hell I was going to dispose of this dead, furry little thing. Mom finally comes in, and is asking me if it’s twitching, and if I am sure it’s a real mouse. So GREAT, now I have to somehow get close to examine this. (And a few months back, I was mocked for having a fear of the mckittens catching and putting dead crickets on me.) So as I stood over this dead mouse, start to blow at it, hoping the breeze would somehow revitalize it enough to let me know if it was all the way dead or not. But the poor little mouse victim was a total goner.

Still the question of who was going to remove the mouse remained and my mother went to get a broom and shovel as I went and got a bag and gloves. Double rubber gloves on my hands, (Hell, I don’t need any bubonic plague) on each hand, I use the plastic shopping bag to pick up the murdered mouse, and felt compelled to study him. Upon my visual inspection (‘visual autopsy’ as I wasn’t going to do anything else) note that there were NO teeth or claw marks on the little mousie. THANK GOD! But that still doesn’t exonerate Pooka and Cro`i from the mouse’s death. Because why were they sitting watch over him?

Like the late Johnny Cochran had said, ‘If the glove don’t fit….you must acquit.’ I have to wonder about the murder that took place in my house last night. Did the little mouse venture in to the garage, and die of natural causes or perhaps mouse poison from another house? Did Pooka and Cro`i scare the mouse to death or maybe just bat him to death? Mom thinks that Pooka and Cro`i were giving us the mouse as an ‘I love you’ gift, as cats are wont to do. No matter what, I still feel that my two mckittens are turning in to hunters.

Blaze the wonder pup

2007-01-18T13:23:00.000-05:00

So I’ve been a greedy little bugger. I have news that I have been sitting on since January 6th, and have kept it to myself. I withheld it from you…my blogger friends and readers. Please don’t be sad, as I hadn’t done so intentionally. It’s just that between the hectic work pace in the office, and the holidays, and post holiday season, I haven’t had time to sit and type it out. So now I am FORCING myself to do so.

I got a puppy! I got a puppy! I got a puppy! *Does little dance of* joy? exhaustion? A bit of both? Instead of buying a pure breed, which we were about to do, I looked at the Bide-A-Wee shelter and fell in love with a little puppy by the name of “Faith”. She was 8 weeks old, and listed as a German Shepard/Rotti mix. After showing her photo to mom and Ida, called the shelter and asked if she was available, then filled out the application over the phone. We got the call stating she was spayed, healthy and ready to be looked at on January 6th, so after I got out of work, we took a ride out to Westhampton. On the way there, mom kept saying ‘don’t get over excited, we’re just going to look at her.’

Well! They brought the little pupster in to the get-to-know-you room, and we all gushed over how cute she was. Then she ran to each of us to give us kiss, and then snuggle. Actually snuggle. Mom proclaimed ‘This is our puppy! This is our Blaze!” And from that second on, we knew we had found our pup and took her home with us.

Blaze is now 3 months old, (her birthday is October 15th) and she is truly a force to reckon with. She can sit on command, and I am trying to teach her to stay. She gets along ok with Pooka and Cro`i…but she wants them to play with her, and they think she’s too wild. The three do share water, although I keep the cat’s food higher so she can’t get to it. If Blaze had her way she’d eat both her food and the mckittens. To make it fair, I don’t chase the cats away from her food…although they really don’t care for pup food.

On January 27th we start going to puppy school…and I hope she will not be too scared of the other dogs. I had brought her over to Nelson’s one night and she had a hoot playing with his five dogs. Blaze still likes me to pick her up to snuggle under my chin, and I’m getting scared. Because she can grow to be 65 pounds, and there is NO way I could lift her at that weight. Everyone thinks she is beautiful and I happen to agree. So without further ado….meet our new puppy Blaze:

Puppy Pandemonium

2007-01-04T10:22:00.000-05:00

Never in my life did I EVER have a hard time getting a pet. I may have had a difficult time convincing mom to let me get a pet. But the actual pet picking and ownership...not a problem. Until now that is.
Being that we wanted to find a puppy who needed a home, we opted to look on sevral different sites such as petfinder.org, and rescue sites as well as local shelters. I had come to find an American Staffordshire Terrier, by the name of Vixen who needed a home. Filling out the application, was approved and and told that for $250.00 we would get our pup spayed, micro-chipped, and all vaccinations. Anyway, we would have gotten her (Vixen on January 8th which was earlier than we were supposed to) but the plan fell through.
I have called shelters, combed puppy listings and rescue sites. Spoken to countless people and treated like crap. One woman who rescues Schnauzers spoke with my mother and demanded to know who was going to feed the dog lunch if she and I both worke? Another woman screamed at me that I shouldn't be getting a dog to amuse my cats. Who are these people and what right do they have to treat someone as such? Mom tried to get us puppies from a friend's daughter's friend whose dog just had a litter of pups. Yeah, lets not even go there. The girl wouldn't even let us come to just LOOK at the pups.
What the hell is going on? Why is it so difficult for us to get a puppy? Saturday I have to come in to the office to work a few hours, and then may have the chance to look at a pup out in Bide-a-wee shelter. So that MAY be our puppy....but the way things are going. Who knows. Dows anyone have a puppy they want to entrust to a good home?

2006-12-28T10:59:00.000-05:00

Christmas 2006 was rather quiet and nice. Granted I am a bit run down, but nothing that rest can’t take care of. 2007 is almost upon us, and no matter who I speak with, no one can believe how fast the year has flown.

Things that I am grateful for:
· The health of my family & myself
· Having a job to support me and a roof over my head
· My TRUE friends
· Being able to go away several times this past year on mini-vacations
· Pooka & Cro`i being as wonderful as they are and the upcoming arrival of our new puppy Vixen

Some of the items I got as Christmas gifts:

· 3-piece luggage set
· Leather vest w/ fur
· Sterling silver 1 ct. tennis bracelet
· Heart pendant and chain with stones
· Puppy chew toy & photo album for Vixen

2007 New Years Resolutions:
· Lose 10 pounds
· Try to control my anxiety on my own
· Be less sarcastic (yeah right...as if that will happen)
· Curse less
· Write. Start my story that I’ve had rattling around in my head. Perhaps it will wind up as a blog for all to enjoy. Or maybe I will take the leap and try to have it published as a book

Christmas weekend was a flurry of events, although it was a quiet holiday. Saturday night mom, Ida & I went to Nelson’s for a lovely dinner. Of course I ate way too much as there was: turkey, stuffing, turnips and potatoes. The house looked lovely, and Peter truly had outdone himself with decorating. Sunday the three of us cooked, and cleaned, and ran amuck in our house getting ready for Christmas day. We were so exhausted, that we never even made it to Midnight Mass. That was disappointing, as we have ALWAYS gone to Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Anyway Christmas morning, we opened gifts, had eggnog bread pudding for breakfast and went to Mass. Dinner was a standing rib roast, lasagna and the trimmings. Nelson and Peter had dinner with us, and Cousin Tom joined us for coffee.

Without further ado....please meet Vixen!

2006-12-14T03:59:00.000-05:00

Tuesday night in to Wednesday morning I was unable to sleep. It was the worst case of insomnia I had had in weeks. I mean totally wide awake until 4:30-5:00am. I had taken the Tuesday off because I had a stomach virus, so knew I really shouldn't take Wednesday off and braved the office. But I know why I was having trouble sleeping that night. And in a way, that's a relief.

After a harrowing puppy search, visiting a kennel....calling numerous shelters, and searching the web it has come to a conclussion. For months, my heart had been set on bringing a Boxer in to our home, where as mom had said no buying a dog. Ida on the other hand was wanting either a Labradoodle or a Boxer. All our lives, from when they were kids, and up until now we have NEVER bought a dog. It has always been a rescue type thing. So even though I love Boxers, it killed me to think about paying $1,500. for a pet. Yes I had attempted to contact several Boxer rescue groups, and never got a return call or e-mail. I had surfed the net and had no luck there either.

Then on Monday, from the office I decided to surf a site: www.petfinder.org to see what I could come up with. And lo and behold my prayers had been answered from the puppy gods. No, she wasn't a Boxer...but she just melted my heart. A rescue group called Fur Babies had rescued a pregnant American Staffordshire Terrier from a high-kill shelter and the momma dog had given birth to a healthy litter of six pups. So I called Ida, and all but yelled in to the phone 'I found our puppy!', and then launched in to telling her all the information the pupy named Vixen had in her profile. Ida gave me the green light and I contacted Fur Babies and filled out an adoption application. Upon discussing this with mom and Ida, we've even decided to keep the pups name, as it is so cute.

I just woke up to go to the bathroom and grab a drink, and decided to check my e-mail. And it is with a soaring heart to announce that Vixen is ours, as of next month. The delay is she is waiting to be spayed and get her vaccinations as is the deal with the adoption process. I strongly support pet rescue & adoption, and strongly urge those of you looking for a pet to search www.petfinder.org as they can locate animals in your area. Thank you to Fur Babies and Kris for saving Holly, and in turn bringing Vixen in to my family. Without further ado, I present Vixen to you.

Letter to the Hawthorne Hotel

2006-12-07T09:26:00.000-05:00

Christmas fact # 5: Wreaths - In ancient Rome, people hung decorative wreaths as sign of victory. The hanging of Christmas wreath seems to have derived from this. Denoting the victory of God over Satan with Jesus' birth into the world.

I have posted in the past my dislike for making e-mails between people public on web sites or blogs, etc. However, due to a certain situation that has transpired...I thought my letter to The Hawthorne Hotel should be made public. That way there would be no hard feelings, or have any of their staff members feeel that I have been unfair to them or unjustly written harsh words about the establishment. My blog is for myself, and my friends to read, enjoy and comment on. I have no problems with ANYONE reading my blog or commenting on it...but still feel the need to put this to rest misunderstanding to rest. The manager of The Hawthorne Hotel ha posted in part 2 of my Salem Thanksgiving trip which is what prompted my e-mail to her. So without further ado, I give you my e-mail:

Subject: Please forward message to Juli Lederhaus

Dear Juli,

I am writing this e-mail to you to clear up some hard feelings that seem to exist between the Hawthorne Hotel and myself. Under no circumstances did I set out to offend or hurt you or any of your staff as you seem to feel I’ve done, by reading and then posting in my blog: Sarcasm & Cynicism...served up by Single Grl
Just by the title of my blog alone, you could expect that some of the things I say would be sarcastic…but I do speak the truth in each post…that is for sure.
Perhaps I should start from the beginning in this e-mail to you, so you could understand why I would dub the Hawthorne Hotel as ‘evil’, but yet sing its praises in the blog. I do note that you failed to acknowledge the nice things I had said about the establishment. Back in June, my aunt and I had visited Salem for the first time, and although we didn’t get the chance to visit the Hawthorne, made up our minds to stay there in the future. Fast forward a few months, to my trying to make reservations to have my family spend time in Salem for Thanksgiving. What I had wanted to do was spend two nights at The Salem Inn (where I had stayed previously) and two nights at The Hawthorne Hotel as well as have Thanksgiving dinner at The Hawthorne Hotel. My one challenge was that we’d be bringing my two cats with us this trip….two gentle cats that are not destructive. You could imagine my surprise when I was quoted a price of $20.00 per cat per day by the reservationists of The Hawthorne Hotel, and was informed that it was a non-negotionable fee as I was bringing animals with me. Don’t get me wrong, I understand the need to keep the establishment in pristine condition, and concern about pets doing damage to a room or soiling it. However my cats have a litter box, and do not mess on the floor…and everyone would agree that the upkeep of a cat is easier than a dog. So I was a little disheartened, that I would have to pay $80.00 for my cats to be guests at the hotel…where as when I made my reservations at The Salem Inn for this visit was also informed of a pet fee. However…they made an exception and told me we’d be charged $20 per day for the two cats. I am very pleased to announce that when I checked out of The Salem Inn on my last stay, which was for the whole of my visit due to the information I got from your hotel, they (The Salem Inn) only charged me $20.00 for my cats for the whole visit. It is the little extra steps that The Salem Inn took on both of my stays with them that have made me decide to only stay with them on my trips to Salem.
As for my Thanksgiving dinner plans, those two had gone awry, when I attempted to make them at The Hawthorne Hotel. I had called to make dinner reservations for 2:30 on Thanksgiving day, in the beginning of October. When I had spoken to the restaurant, was told that they could seat my party of 3 people at 11:30am for Thanksgiving dinner, as they were not ready to make afternoon seating charts yet. Now, I don’t know about you…but I have never eaten stuffing, and corn and yams, not to mention turkey at 11:30am. I was offered to be put on a waiting list to have a reservation for the afternoon, ‘once the manager got around to making the table seatings.’ I took that option, giving the hotel the benefit of the doubt. Again, my plans to have a pleasant Thanksgiving experience at The Hawthorne Hotel was dashed, when I got a call on November 10th from the Dining Service Manager of the Hawthorne Hotel, James Kluge who was very pleasant yet offered me a seating for Thanksgiving dinner at 11:00am. Yeah, I was still going to have to pass on having dinner for breakfast sorry. But I do note, and in my blog acknowledge that I got a call back, and that Mr. Kluge had tried to accommodate us with a seating. So my mom, aunt and I had Thanksgiving dinner at The Omni Parker House in Boston, and it was a lovely experience.
We did manage to have coffee and dessert in the Tavern at The Hawthorne Hotel on November 24th, and got to experience Santa arriving and coming down off the roof of the hotel. In part 2 of my blog, in which you had e-mailed me as to why I called the hotel ‘evil’ I did comment: Mom had a lot of fun...and after there we did a bit of ghost hunting by foot, followed by coffee and dessert at The (evil) Hawthorne Hotel. Although I do have to give credit when credit is do...and the Hawthorne is a beautiful building, and the dessert was awesome. Ida had strawberry parfait, mom had lemon torte, and I had bread pudding. That last part is a direct quote from the blog entry. In all fairness, you should see my point of view…both dinner and staying plans had not been met by the hotel. Granted my family is not the only people whose needs are desired to be met. However as I have to deal in customer relations for my department, where I work…I do also know that sometimes you need to go that extra step to make a customer or potential customer happy. I too also understand that your staff has many people to tend to, many guests and events to accommodate…and I take that in to consideration as well. In part two of my blog, when I referred to the hotel as The (evil) Hawthorne Hotel, I was being sarcastic, and keeping in the same tune as my original post of my dealings with the hotel. I apologize if you took offense to my comments. My blog is a diary of sorts that my friends read….and my friends know and understand my sense of humor or manner of writing. There are no hard feelings towards The Hawthorne Hotel staff at all, other than my disappointment that Thanksgiving didn’t work out there. But on my next visit to Salem, will gladly dine at your hotel.

Kindest regards, and warmest holiday wishes,

Rose (Last name being ommitted from here for my own privacy.)
(Company signiture was here. I am erasing it for blog)

Salem MA, Thanksgiving trip 2006 (Part 2)

2006-12-06T18:45:00.000-05:00

So here we are, part 2 of the Salem Thanksgiving trip 2006. Without further ado, I'm going to jump right in to the rest of the story. Here, to the left of the paragraph is me, being silly after we got back to the Inn on Thanksgiving night. I pulled my hair in to two pony tails, threw my jammies on, and we all watched the tube. In this room, we had 2 twin sized beds, and a roll-away which was way better than the roll away on the 4th floor. We had eben undecided if we were going to go down to Boston on Friday, or stay and see sites in Salem. Since mom had never been to Salem before she asked if we could do the sites there.

Friday morning, we had another delicious breakfast in the dining area, and the lady who works it filled us up with mini muffins and packets of hot chocolate to snack on. From there, we went to an antique store and mom did some shopping, and then decided to go to The House of Seven Gabels museum, which the grounds also hold the birth house of Nathanial Hawthorne. Mom had really wanted to do it, and I was all for it, because Ida and I hadn't done the tour last time we were there. The red house below is the birth home of Nathanial Hawthorne. Our tour guide was very knoweldgeable, and kept infomring us that the curator now has done so much for the estate and grounds within 5 years than was done in the past 50 years.

We were not allowed to take photos in either of the house due to the security system. But in all honesty, I was cool with not taking photos inside. At one point, they make you climb up this hidden staircase, and the tour guide made mom go first. She almost freaked, because it was so narrow...and she is clustophobic. But I am proud of her, because hse made it up, however she did accidentally closed the door on the rest of us, and I thought we were all trapped. Going down they allowed us to use a different staircase which was much bigger. We were all a bit famished after the tour was over, so Ida mom and I went and had a late lunch, early dinner at The Witches Brew Cafe.

After lunch, the three of us headed to one of the coolest museum's, the Pirate Museum. Ida and I wondered if we'd get the same tour guide, but we didn't. This guide was way hotter looking. Also, instead of it being just Ida and I on the tour...we had a nice sized group. Mom had a lot of fun...and after there we did a bit of ghost hunting by foot, followed by coffee and dessert at The (evil) Hawthorne Hotel. Although I do have to give credit when credit is do...and the Hawthorne is a beautiful building, and the dessert was awesome. Ida had strawberry parfiet, mom had lemon torte, and I had bread pudding.

Saturday it was time for us to start heading home, and I could tell that none of us, not even Pooka & Cro`i really wanted to leave. We had met so many nice people who were on vacation, or who live up in the Salem area. Pooka was easy to get back in to the carrier, but it took us about 15 minutes to finally catch Cro`i (practically tackle her) and get her in the case to. After a saddened good-bye to the staff, and a promise that I'd be back in June for my birthday, we decided to hit Pickering Warf for some light shopping. I did a bit of Christmas gift purchasing, and got myself a sweatshirt, pin and coffee mug. I hope you enjoy our tale, and the photos!

Christmas = Christmas Cookies

2006-12-06T10:44:00.000-05:00

Christmas fact # 4: Father Christmas - Developed from several pagan gods. The Roman Saturnalia, a giant who brought food, wine, joy and revelry once a year to all and Odin, who would sweep across the land during the winter. Always portrayed as a giant with a robe lined with fur and holly with ivy or mistletoe on his head and carrying a Yule Log.

Each year at Christmas, my house smells like a cookie factory. I have to say, my family has never been rich, and financially….but we’re rich with the love, and memories, and traditions that have been passed on from generation to generation. So even at the age of 30, come Christmas, mom, Ida and I are dashing about the kitchen making cookies to share with friends and loved ones. Two years ago I had wanted to have a holiday open house, and had made hundreds; (no lie there) of cookies…as it was just going to be a snack party. Well, the day of our open house, we got hit with a freak blizzard, and had cookies coming out the ying-yang.

Last year we threw a Christmas tea party for our lady-friends which went way better. Nice weather, and not as many cookies…but more than enough to go around. So now it has come to baking Christmas cookies again, and we’ve been trying to narrow which cookies to make. It’s really difficult, because there are some favorites which you just HAVE to make each year, and of course there are ones that are specialty so this is the only time of year you make them. But there are so many different types of cookies it is hard to decide. Anyway, this year here are some of the cookies we’ve decided upon. Hope they make your mouth water:

Chocolate Chip Cookies
Sugar Cookies
Gingerbread Cookies with Snowflake Fondant icing
Almond Snowball Cookies
Tri-colored Cookies
Peanut Butter Cookies
Italian Knot Cookies
Sherry Butter Nut Drops Cookies
Maamoul: Stuffed Date-Orange Cookies
Jam Thumbprint Cookies

And that’s just to name a few!

Sunday...in the park...wish it was a day in July

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

**I’m slacking! I had promised a Christmas blurb each day until December 25th, and ‘tis already December 5th and I only gave you guy’s one Christmas fact. So to make up for it, I’m including two Christmas facts in this post today. Enjoy, and please accept my apologies for being a slacker. Christmas fact # 2: Candy Canes - A 18th century English candy maker decided to make a candy commemorating Christmas (this was during the time that Christmas celebrating was outlawed in England) [see 12 days of Christmas], the result was a candy cane representing the Shepherds staff and upside down, a letter for Jesus. Made of white candy to represent purity with 3 red stripes for the Trinity and 1 large red stripe for Jesus' blood later shed. Some dispute this.**

So lots going on in my neck of the wood, and I have no idea where to start. All I can say is that mom had me freeze my nu-nu’s off Sunday. Don’t ask me what the hell my nu-nu’s are, as I have no idea myself what they are. But as I’m actually trying to keep this a PG rating today, decided to use that word. Anyway, I digress.

Sunday, as I am busting my butt, trying to put together my Ab Scissor, as I had finally carried the pieces upstairs, to the little room, mom comes in and announces to Ida and I that our friend Ann had invited us to a Christmas tree lighting. Ann has been a little blue the past month, and we love her (and her cookies) so I had said to mom yes, I would go along even though we had tones of things to do. Mom told me that the tree lighting ceremony would be no more than an hour. Which that worked out great, because Ida and I wanted to go to a store, and plus I was STARVING, so we had planned on getting something to eat after the tree lighting and before going to the store.

Fast forward to the park where this wonderful event would be taking place. Mom and I milled, talking to people we knew as the stage was set up. One of our friends had asked where Ida was, and we told them home, as she would be too cold. At that point I find out that this snow-riffic event was not an hour long. OH NO! It was going to be 2 hours long. Two hours. In the cold. Which I HATE the COLD. HATE IT…with the furry of a million snow flakes. And if that wasn’t enough…I got bum rushed up on stage with my mother and her friends to sing Christmas carols. Singing…in public….with a microphone. I am shy when it comes to stuff like that, and here I was in a park singing in front of some people I knew and A LOT more people that I DIDN’T know.

To wrap up the two-hour singing cold fest, mom and I joined the throng of people on line for hot chocolate. The way the hot chocolate people were distributing the beverage was so asinine. They would not allow any people in to the little room to pick up their cup of cocoa (because of the fire hazard body count), but I almost got NO hot chocolate because I went in to the room twice, thinking that was what you were supposed to do. Tre bad planning hot chocolate people tre bad indeed! No one should be yelled at for not following the hot chocolate receivable directions when they are not posted. All I had to hear was a ‘NO HOT CHOCOLATE FOR YOU!!!’ yelled at me, and I would have believed I was in a Seinfeld episode.

All in all we had a nice, yet cold afternoon. And somewhere on the Chamber of Commerce web site will be pictures of me singing on stage. Singing Christmas songs. In public!

Christmas fact # 3: Stamps - On Christmas day 1898, Canada started its Penny Postal System and issued a stamp to commemorate Christmas, this proved very popular and many other countries have since done also.

Time flies as you get older...not necessarily having fun.

2006-12-01T10:13:00.000-05:00

Hey there everybody! I had been trying to get my Thanksgiving trip blog up before December 1st, but as normal...things didn't work out just how I expected them to. I promise however that the post will be up either by tonight or tomorrow morning...it's 1/2 done. Also, I decided to get in to the holiday spirit each day I am going to post some sort of holiday trivia, fact or something until we get to the big DECEMBER 2-5.

It's funny how fast the year flies by as you are an adult. I remember being a kid, and the year seemed to drag....forever until my birthday....Christmas is eons away.....Halloween is never going to get here. But as an adult, it feels like just yesterday we were taking down decorations to put away. Another year a blur...another year goes by without goals achieved or dreams fulfilled. But I am greatful. I have learned A LOT about myself, and my household over the past couple of months. My mother and I may fight and my mother and Ida may argue. And we do it hard, and we do it with passion. But we love one another even harder and fiercer. So be thankful for those you have, and those you love. With that, enjoy holiday treat #1. :-)

Mistletoe - Ancient Celtic priests calls Druids around the New Year would collect mistletoe from their holy oak tree and offer some as a sacrifice to the gods. Some would be hung up during a ceremony which people would stand under it and kiss showing an end to their old grievances with each other. This later practice never actually died out.

Salem MA, Thanksgiving trip 2006 (Part 1)

2006-11-29T18:44:00.000-05:00

So the much waited, long anticipated Thanksgiving trip has taken place without any loss of limbs, trips a mental ward, or my threatening to leave any family members either (a) home or (b) in Salem. I have to say it was a great trip, and I am so glad that mom came with us, wanted to come with us. Above is a photo of The House Of The Seven Gables....you know the book Nathanial Hawthorne had written way back when. But I guess as is true with any story, it's best to begin at the beginning.

The five of us: Mom, Ida, Pooka, Cro`i and myself left for Salem on Wednesday, 11/22/06 and took the ferry from Orient Point, to New London CT...where fromt here we'd drive 2 1/2 hours. I was nervous about how the mckittens would do on the ferry, and we opted to leave them in the car so as not to catch a draft while on the water. They didn't seem any worse for ware when we got back in to the car and began our driving portion. On occassion Pooka would cry for his sister, and Ida then decided it best to keep the two cats in one carrier except seperate. Making excellent time, we didn't hit much traffic until we neared Salem and Danvers (which is the town next to Salem.) Turned out that there had been a MASSIVE explosion at a chemical plant, so strong that residents in New Hampshire felt the vibrations. So many roadways were closed and cars detoured. We got to The Salem Inn just at 5pm, and I was glad for it. My bladder needed a break. Upon checking in, found out that our suite was on the 4th floor, and being that the Inn isn't handicapped accessible, I carried all the luggage up 4 flights of winding, narrow stairs. Mom and Ida followed, and we realized that the suite was (a) BEAUTIFUL, and (b) really too big for our needs. But this room was only for one night, so what the heck. Below you'll see Ida sitting in a rocker, and also I'm including some of the mansions from Chestnut ST.

For our first night in Salem, we ate at The Salem Beer Works, which is just your local brewery/restaraunt type of joint like a John Harvards. Mom and Ida both had burgers, and I had a chicken sandwich. Mom and Ida had soup, mom- the New England Clam Chowder (which was DELISH), and Ida had French Onion which she enjoyed. Mom and I both tried the beer sampler, which consists of 4 4oz. tastings of beers. We had: Pumpkinhead Ale, Red Witch, Seven Gables Pale Ale, and Salem Light. Our two favorites were the Pumpkinhead, and the Red Witch. We drove around a bit, and then hit the hay as we were exhausted. My roll-away bed was a bit squeeky.

Thanksgiving was a wet day, up in Salem, but from what I understand not as nasty as it was in NY. We tried not to over-do it at breakfast, as it is a continental buffett. But the lady who runs the dining area kept trying to fill us up. We got dressed, and headed down in to Boston to the Omni Parker House for an early dinner. Our room that we had moved in to, on the first floor of The Salem Inn was way smaller than the suite, but we made do and were comfortable. The Omni Parker House Thanksgiving dinner was served as a buffett, and we were left wanting NOTHING. Tables of food, ice sculpters adorning the buffett, staff waiting to fulfill your every whim. Table one was hors' durves and tropical shrimp salad, grilled veggies and Butternut Squash Soup. Table two was all different salads, pate, and breads and meats and cheeses. Table three had all the trimmings you would have at home, and then some. Table four had: turkey and stuffing, ham, poached filet, and beef tenderloin. Table five was EVERY delicious dessert you could dream up, from traditional pies, to flan, to cakes, and mousse filled chocolate pumpkins. We weren't piggies, and shared what we took for dessert, but even then we couldn't finish.