This is my new favorite song. Perfect for workouts or those days when I am in a funk. I love, love, love this song.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Practice Makes Perfect
It seems that today has been just as busy as yesterday. I thought I was on vacation? At my old job I would always take one of the ladies I worked with around to run her errands since she doesn't drive. She called me earlier in the week asking if I could come take her today to run some errands. It was suppose to be an easy day, but since we are getting snow it made it hard to get around. On the way home I saw 4 wrecks. I hate the way people in Kansas City drive in the snow. No one slows down and they drive as if it's a sunny day.
So I am still have a good time taking pictures with my new camera. It has so many more features so it's going to take me a while to figure them all out. Since the pets are the only ones that will let me take pictures of them they have been my models so far.
This is one of the stray kittens. I love the zoom because I don't have to get too close to them to get a good picture. Can you tell this little cutie is waiting for breakfast.
Here's Sophie in the snow. I love this picture. She loves the snow and would run around in it all the time if wasn't so cold.
Here's Sophie again in the snow. Notice the snow on her nose. She's just like a little kid when it comes to eating the snow. She is very good at avoiding the yellow spots.
I just snapped this picture and it's a little blurry but I like that her tongue is out. Her tongue looks like Gene Simmons here.
One of the errands that I had today was to get dog food. Sophie always has to check out her new food. Bonk was supervising both Sophie and I.
Sophie is a lazy dog. She eats laying down. I think part of it is because of her age and it's just easier to lay down to eat. We are thinking about getting her one of those elevated bowls, but I personally think she likes laying down to eat.
We are so excited because next Tuesday Lynilu is coming to visit us for a few days. She will be sleeping in our guest room which is also Sophie-dogs room. Sophie has already agreed that Lynilu can stay in her room as long as she brings treats. Today Brady asked what treats he was getting. This is the first time Brady has been in this room in months. I think he is trying to manipulate Lynilu.
Another blurry shot, but I am working on making them better. This is Sophie when the mailman came today. We have a slot in the door and she goes crazy when he puts the mail through the door. Laura said she only does this when I am home. I am not sure if I should believe her.
So I am still have a good time taking pictures with my new camera. It has so many more features so it's going to take me a while to figure them all out. Since the pets are the only ones that will let me take pictures of them they have been my models so far.
This is one of the stray kittens. I love the zoom because I don't have to get too close to them to get a good picture. Can you tell this little cutie is waiting for breakfast.
Here's Sophie in the snow. I love this picture. She loves the snow and would run around in it all the time if wasn't so cold.
Here's Sophie again in the snow. Notice the snow on her nose. She's just like a little kid when it comes to eating the snow. She is very good at avoiding the yellow spots.
I just snapped this picture and it's a little blurry but I like that her tongue is out. Her tongue looks like Gene Simmons here.
One of the errands that I had today was to get dog food. Sophie always has to check out her new food. Bonk was supervising both Sophie and I.
Sophie is a lazy dog. She eats laying down. I think part of it is because of her age and it's just easier to lay down to eat. We are thinking about getting her one of those elevated bowls, but I personally think she likes laying down to eat.
We are so excited because next Tuesday Lynilu is coming to visit us for a few days. She will be sleeping in our guest room which is also Sophie-dogs room. Sophie has already agreed that Lynilu can stay in her room as long as she brings treats. Today Brady asked what treats he was getting. This is the first time Brady has been in this room in months. I think he is trying to manipulate Lynilu.
Another blurry shot, but I am working on making them better. This is Sophie when the mailman came today. We have a slot in the door and she goes crazy when he puts the mail through the door. Laura said she only does this when I am home. I am not sure if I should believe her.Tuesday, January 30, 2007
What a Day
What a busy day this has been. It started out by getting up early and going to the gym. Boy am I dedicated or what? After the gym I rushed home and showered to get ready for my interview. The interview went great. I really like this agency and it has some great potential for moving up. It may be a couple weeks before I hear anything, so until that time I am going to enjoy my time off.
After my interview I rushed home to visit with Laura for a few minutes before she was off to a meeting. While Laura and I were talking we were talking about my visit to the casino tomorrow. We are suppose to get snow so she suggested I go today. I thought that was a fabulous idea. So off to the casino I went.
It was weird because I was there for about 90 minutes when I realized I was losing no money and in fact was coming out ahead. I also realized I was getting bored. So I took my money (by this point it was the same amount I had gone with) and headed home. It was then I decided that the money I didn't loose at the casino I could buy myself something with it. And there is something I have been wanting for a long time.
The picture in this post is a small hint. Yes I bought myself a new camera. My other one was just fine, but I wanted one that has a zoom lens and where I could take up close pictures that looked good.
After dinner with Laura and some grocery shopping I found the camera I wanted. My old camera is a Kodak camera and I wanted to stick with that so I could use the same memory card and software. This new camera is a 7.1 mega pixels. I am so excited.
I am off to take more pictures......
Monday, January 29, 2007
Gladys
Ok, this is the funniest thing I have seen all week. I am not a huge fan of Ellen, but found this on another blog. After Laura and I stopped laughing I decided to post it on my blog. It's a little long, but I promise you will be laughing.
Banned from the Kitchen
I was told this afternoon that I am officially banned from the kitchen.
Laura does all the cooking and I was doing all the cleaning up and washing dishes. I guess I wasn't doing a good enough job with putting the dishes in the dishwasher, etc. After several months of Laura pulling what appeared to be clean dishes out of our cabinets when they were actually a little dirty, she has said I can no longer go in the kitchen. This means she does all the cooking and all the dishes.
I knew my plan of getting out of doing any of the cooking or dishes would work one day.
Oh, the sweet smell of success.
Laura does all the cooking and I was doing all the cleaning up and washing dishes. I guess I wasn't doing a good enough job with putting the dishes in the dishwasher, etc. After several months of Laura pulling what appeared to be clean dishes out of our cabinets when they were actually a little dirty, she has said I can no longer go in the kitchen. This means she does all the cooking and all the dishes.
I knew my plan of getting out of doing any of the cooking or dishes would work one day.
Oh, the sweet smell of success.
How Ironic
About ten minutes ago I was sitting here and the phone rang. The caller ID showed it was the agency I was just working for. They told me that they are doing some contract work and wanted to know if I was interested in coming and doing some work for them. WTF?????????? They have another staff member out because of a family emergency and needed someone to come in this week to work on a brochure and mass mailing they have. I was very polite and told them "thanks, but no thanks."
It just doesn't make sense to me. Just two weeks ago I was working there and now they are calling me back to do some work for them. And contract work at that which means no benefits. Because I know how to do most of the things in the agency I can see it now: Caroline can you do this, can you do that? I don't think so.
I really do appreciate them thinking of me and I made sure they knew that. But at this point I don't want to mess up my unemployment benefits that I am getting. Any money I bring in from a job would probably make it so I wouldn't be getting a weekly check.
PLUS, I am really enjoying my time off. I love waking up and the only thing I have to do is go to the gym. It is very nice not having a set schedule and being able to do what I want to do. It is wonderful. And I don't plan on giving that up right at this moment. Well, at least not this week.
It just doesn't make sense to me. Just two weeks ago I was working there and now they are calling me back to do some work for them. And contract work at that which means no benefits. Because I know how to do most of the things in the agency I can see it now: Caroline can you do this, can you do that? I don't think so.
I really do appreciate them thinking of me and I made sure they knew that. But at this point I don't want to mess up my unemployment benefits that I am getting. Any money I bring in from a job would probably make it so I wouldn't be getting a weekly check.
PLUS, I am really enjoying my time off. I love waking up and the only thing I have to do is go to the gym. It is very nice not having a set schedule and being able to do what I want to do. It is wonderful. And I don't plan on giving that up right at this moment. Well, at least not this week.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
More Then You Need to Know
I saw this on Patticake's blog and thought I would do this since I can't seem to find anything to write about today.
1) When we go out to eat and have leftovers I will usually put the little dipping cups in with the leftovers. We have a whole collection of them from different restaurants. I even think I have one of Lynilu's that I have forgotten to give back. Opps, did I say that out loud?
2) When I was born my parents named me Jennifer Jane. When I was six weeks old my parents went up to Northern Minnesota and were going through old family papers and found someone on my Dad's side named "Caroline Ann". They immediately changed my name. My baby book plus several pictures of me as a baby have Jennifer Jane crossed out and then Caroline Ann written in it's place.
3) I have traveled A LOT. My Mom is a travel agent and we were always going places when I was younger. I have been to Hawaii 5 times, England, Mexico 3 times, numerous places in the Caribbean and I have visited 37 states.
4) When I was a teenager my friends and I would drive around in the summer putting detergent in the fountains. KC is known as the "city of fountains" so we had plenty of fountains to go to. There were a couple summers where I spent more money on detergent then anything else.
5) My entire childhood we would spend the summer weekends at our cabin on a local lake. I loved this little cabin and we had some really good times. So from the time I was born until I was 15 during the months of May-August you could find me at the lake most likely swimming. We would occasionally go there in the winter and go ice skating. I wish my parents had kept the cabin.
1) When we go out to eat and have leftovers I will usually put the little dipping cups in with the leftovers. We have a whole collection of them from different restaurants. I even think I have one of Lynilu's that I have forgotten to give back. Opps, did I say that out loud?
2) When I was born my parents named me Jennifer Jane. When I was six weeks old my parents went up to Northern Minnesota and were going through old family papers and found someone on my Dad's side named "Caroline Ann". They immediately changed my name. My baby book plus several pictures of me as a baby have Jennifer Jane crossed out and then Caroline Ann written in it's place.
3) I have traveled A LOT. My Mom is a travel agent and we were always going places when I was younger. I have been to Hawaii 5 times, England, Mexico 3 times, numerous places in the Caribbean and I have visited 37 states.
4) When I was a teenager my friends and I would drive around in the summer putting detergent in the fountains. KC is known as the "city of fountains" so we had plenty of fountains to go to. There were a couple summers where I spent more money on detergent then anything else.
5) My entire childhood we would spend the summer weekends at our cabin on a local lake. I loved this little cabin and we had some really good times. So from the time I was born until I was 15 during the months of May-August you could find me at the lake most likely swimming. We would occasionally go there in the winter and go ice skating. I wish my parents had kept the cabin.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Shhh! I have a Secret
OK, so I have another blog. Laura and I wanted to write about our workouts and trainings at the gym. Laura created the first post and I have done all the others ones. I think it will end up being about my workouts and progress on losing weight. Check it out because I can always use some encouragement on those days when the couch looks better then the gym.
Always the After
Always the After
Because she is old...
This is our dear cat Bonk who will turn 20 in just a few months. We have found that whatever she wants...she gets. Here she is eating the remains of Laura's cottage cheese. If any other cat (or the dog) would have attempted to do this they would have gotten in trouble. How can we tell her no? No is just not an option with her. BTW, she also loves whipped cream from our hot chocolate.
Yesterday morning I sent my resume off to an agency here in town. Well, it's a HUGE national social service agency with a chapter in the KC area. Last night at 6:15pm I got a call because they were very interested in speaking with me. So I have an interview on Tuesday morning which I am very excited about. I think I would go back to work before May if I could work for this agency. I will be keeping my fingers crossed.
Laura's Valentine gift was her new bicycle. My Valentine's Day gift??? I get a trip to the casino. I am so excited. It's been since the late summer that I have been. So Wednesday afternoon I have a date with the casino. I am hoping for a big win.
Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Florida Trip
I am excited!! It's been a very productive week in our planning for our trip and commitment ceremony in April. Here's what we got done this week for our trip.
1) We made our reservation for the car rental. Last time we had a convertible, but didn't use it that often so we decided this time to just go with a mid-size car. I was excited because the weekly rate is only $189. But the taxes are so high in Florida. After all the taxes our total for the car is $280. That's almost $100 in taxes. Crazy.
2) We have paid off our resort. As a gift to little sis and hubby we are taking them with us to Florida and paid for their airline tickets as well as their 5 night stay at our resort. It was a huge relief to get that paid off. Last year we just paid it off when we got there, but this year we decided we wanted to pay both rooms off early so we wouldn't have to worry about it. Yea, no worries. We are staying HERE. We will be in room 1 (be sure to check out the pictures) and little sis and hubby will be staying right next to us in room 2.
3) We have our reservations for the actual ceremony. We kept meaning to call to make the reservations, but with the holidays we kept forgetting. I woke up one day this week thinking, "oh my gosh what if April 16 is not available". I called that same day and told them what we wanted and got the reservation. THEY will be taking us out on their private boat at sunset to perform the ceremony. The total trip will be 90 minutes. They sent us a copy of the vows they use and we plan on making some minor changes, but we love the sailing/boat theme to the vows. It's going to be beautiful and I simply can't wait.
Before we know it April is going to be here and we will be on our way to a trip of a lifetime. I look forward to expressing to Laura the love I have for her and how happy she has made my life. I can't imagine a day without her. Six years ago I never thought I would find love again. I was patient and within two years I realized what Gods plan was. I am happy that I was patient and waited because I truly got the best reward.
1) We made our reservation for the car rental. Last time we had a convertible, but didn't use it that often so we decided this time to just go with a mid-size car. I was excited because the weekly rate is only $189. But the taxes are so high in Florida. After all the taxes our total for the car is $280. That's almost $100 in taxes. Crazy.
2) We have paid off our resort. As a gift to little sis and hubby we are taking them with us to Florida and paid for their airline tickets as well as their 5 night stay at our resort. It was a huge relief to get that paid off. Last year we just paid it off when we got there, but this year we decided we wanted to pay both rooms off early so we wouldn't have to worry about it. Yea, no worries. We are staying HERE. We will be in room 1 (be sure to check out the pictures) and little sis and hubby will be staying right next to us in room 2.
3) We have our reservations for the actual ceremony. We kept meaning to call to make the reservations, but with the holidays we kept forgetting. I woke up one day this week thinking, "oh my gosh what if April 16 is not available". I called that same day and told them what we wanted and got the reservation. THEY will be taking us out on their private boat at sunset to perform the ceremony. The total trip will be 90 minutes. They sent us a copy of the vows they use and we plan on making some minor changes, but we love the sailing/boat theme to the vows. It's going to be beautiful and I simply can't wait.
Before we know it April is going to be here and we will be on our way to a trip of a lifetime. I look forward to expressing to Laura the love I have for her and how happy she has made my life. I can't imagine a day without her. Six years ago I never thought I would find love again. I was patient and within two years I realized what Gods plan was. I am happy that I was patient and waited because I truly got the best reward.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
To St.Louis and Back
What a busy day it's been for the two of us. We left KC around 10:30am and got home around 10:00PM. It was a whirlwind of a trip, but definitely a lot of fun. I was reminded of how much fun Laura and I can have on a road trip. From here to St. Louis and most of the way home (by that time we were getting a little tired) there was nothing but laughter and jokes. It was fun. I can't believe how many pictures I took from the just 12 hours that we were gone.
First stop was Columbia, Missouri for lunch at Chevys. Boy was it good. Laura swears we smelled like fajitas the entire day.
Here's yours truly at Chevys.
Ok, so there is a story behind this picture. From KC to St. Louis there are like a million Adult Bookstores and titty bars. Every single exit there is a XXX sign. Well as we were passing of these stores this truck got on the highway from the Adult Bookstore. For some reason Laura and I were laughing like middle school kids. I slowed down so we could get a picture of the truck. I am sure the guy was wondering why we slowed down and then took his picture. After the picture was taken I hit the gas to get far away from the guy.
Next stop: Wright City, Missouri. I was so happy that the museum was open. Laura on the other hand kept saying, "I am very scared". If you read the sign carefully it says "conservative publications". With our rainbow and HRC sticker we were a little nervous. The place was just as freaky as I remember and the guy that runs the place has aged since I saw him last, but still very odd.
Here is the open casket with the mannequin. Just spooky to me.
Here is a replica of the tomb stone from Graceland. Again, just too weird for me.
This shot shows the supposed baby stroller that was used by Lisa Marie Presley.
Next stop: Imo's Pizza St. Louis, MO. We pulled into St. Louis around 4:00pm. Since we weren't picking up the bike until 6:30pm we had some time to kill. Why not do it at Imo's Pizza.
We watched one hour of "The King of Queens" and 30 minutes of "Seinfeld". I think the people at Imo's pizza were wondering when we were going to leave. We had fun though just sitting and talking.
We got toasted Ravioli and a pizza. Both were very good.
Next stop: White Castle. We were completely stuffed from Imo's, but I just had to get some White Castle burgers to take home. I would have gotten a better picture, but there was some ass that was honking at me to move. BTW, now our car smells like White Castle burgers.
Last stop: Pick up bicycle. This isn't the best picture of the bike, but the best we could take on the way home. The lady we bought it from was very nice and is living with her parents while she recoups from a horrible car accident. Her parents were adorable and really liked to talk. Here is what I learned about this family in the 15 minutes we were there:
*Her Mom has had a horrible cold for a week.
*Today is her Dad's birthday
*Her Mom is retiring tomorrow
*They paid off their house this past week
*Their dog is 14 and is named Mary Margaret, Maggie for short.
They were very cute and we enjoyed talking with them.
I also remembered today that most people in St. Louis drive crazy. Most of the people that were behind me at some point were right on my bumper. To them the speed limit is always 10mph more the the posted speed limit.
Well, I am about to fall asleep so it's is bedtime for me.
First stop was Columbia, Missouri for lunch at Chevys. Boy was it good. Laura swears we smelled like fajitas the entire day.
Here's yours truly at Chevys.
Ok, so there is a story behind this picture. From KC to St. Louis there are like a million Adult Bookstores and titty bars. Every single exit there is a XXX sign. Well as we were passing of these stores this truck got on the highway from the Adult Bookstore. For some reason Laura and I were laughing like middle school kids. I slowed down so we could get a picture of the truck. I am sure the guy was wondering why we slowed down and then took his picture. After the picture was taken I hit the gas to get far away from the guy.
Next stop: Wright City, Missouri. I was so happy that the museum was open. Laura on the other hand kept saying, "I am very scared". If you read the sign carefully it says "conservative publications". With our rainbow and HRC sticker we were a little nervous. The place was just as freaky as I remember and the guy that runs the place has aged since I saw him last, but still very odd.
Here is the open casket with the mannequin. Just spooky to me.
Here is a replica of the tomb stone from Graceland. Again, just too weird for me.
This shot shows the supposed baby stroller that was used by Lisa Marie Presley.
Next stop: Imo's Pizza St. Louis, MO. We pulled into St. Louis around 4:00pm. Since we weren't picking up the bike until 6:30pm we had some time to kill. Why not do it at Imo's Pizza.
We watched one hour of "The King of Queens" and 30 minutes of "Seinfeld". I think the people at Imo's pizza were wondering when we were going to leave. We had fun though just sitting and talking.
We got toasted Ravioli and a pizza. Both were very good.
Next stop: White Castle. We were completely stuffed from Imo's, but I just had to get some White Castle burgers to take home. I would have gotten a better picture, but there was some ass that was honking at me to move. BTW, now our car smells like White Castle burgers.
Last stop: Pick up bicycle. This isn't the best picture of the bike, but the best we could take on the way home. The lady we bought it from was very nice and is living with her parents while she recoups from a horrible car accident. Her parents were adorable and really liked to talk. Here is what I learned about this family in the 15 minutes we were there:*Her Mom has had a horrible cold for a week.
*Today is her Dad's birthday
*Her Mom is retiring tomorrow
*They paid off their house this past week
*Their dog is 14 and is named Mary Margaret, Maggie for short.
They were very cute and we enjoyed talking with them.
I also remembered today that most people in St. Louis drive crazy. Most of the people that were behind me at some point were right on my bumper. To them the speed limit is always 10mph more the the posted speed limit.
Well, I am about to fall asleep so it's is bedtime for me.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Road Trip
Tomorrow we are going on a much anticipated road trip to pick up Laura's new bike. She found it on Sunday and within 30 minutes of finding it she had sealed the deal. I am happy that she found the exact bike she was looking for and better yet a great deal.
I am looking forward to just getting out of town for a day. St. Louis is not that big of a deal, but it will be good to get on the road and forget for the day that we have any responsibilities at home. Because we are making the 3 1/2 hour trip one way to get a bike for her she has said that I get to choose where we have lunch and dinner. As many of you know Mexican is my all time favorite food. One of my favorite restaurants is Chevy's. We used to have a couple in Kansas City, but about 3 years ago they just disappeared. Luckily there is one in Columbia, MO which is about the half way point between KC and St. Louis. I can already taste the fajitas. For dinner I compromised with Laura and we are going to Imo's Pizza for dinner since Laura could eat pizza for every meal. She has talked about the toasted ravioli and I am looking forward to it. I think I am only going to have a bite or two of pizza/ravioli because I have my eyes on White Castle. I LOVE White Castle burgers. Again, about 3 years ago they all disappeared in the KC area. So whenever we go to St. Louis I make sure we stop so I can get a slider. They do sell White Castle burgers in the frozen section at the grocery store, but they just don't taste as good. I am getting heartburn just thinking about them.
In Wright City, MO there is a "Elvis is Alive Museum" that I think we are going to stop at. I went to this place 8 years ago with my ex husband. I had read something in People magazine about this crazy man that really thinks Elvis is still alive and has opened a Museum to prove his point. It's a run down old restaurant in a small country town with a pink Cadillac out front that is supposedly the "Kings". This guy even has a casket set up with a mannequin that looks like Elvis. When I was there 8 years ago I was completely freaked out. It was the weirdest experience of my life. As a joke I asked the guy that runs the museum if he had seen Elvis today and he said, with a serious face, "Oh he was by here earlier this morning". Since Laura is such a huge fan of Elvis I thought I would stop so she could see this crazy place. I can't wait to see her face and expressions.
I was instructed this morning that it was my day to make our lunch. So I better get to making it. Have a good day everyone.
I am looking forward to just getting out of town for a day. St. Louis is not that big of a deal, but it will be good to get on the road and forget for the day that we have any responsibilities at home. Because we are making the 3 1/2 hour trip one way to get a bike for her she has said that I get to choose where we have lunch and dinner. As many of you know Mexican is my all time favorite food. One of my favorite restaurants is Chevy's. We used to have a couple in Kansas City, but about 3 years ago they just disappeared. Luckily there is one in Columbia, MO which is about the half way point between KC and St. Louis. I can already taste the fajitas. For dinner I compromised with Laura and we are going to Imo's Pizza for dinner since Laura could eat pizza for every meal. She has talked about the toasted ravioli and I am looking forward to it. I think I am only going to have a bite or two of pizza/ravioli because I have my eyes on White Castle. I LOVE White Castle burgers. Again, about 3 years ago they all disappeared in the KC area. So whenever we go to St. Louis I make sure we stop so I can get a slider. They do sell White Castle burgers in the frozen section at the grocery store, but they just don't taste as good. I am getting heartburn just thinking about them.
In Wright City, MO there is a "Elvis is Alive Museum" that I think we are going to stop at. I went to this place 8 years ago with my ex husband. I had read something in People magazine about this crazy man that really thinks Elvis is still alive and has opened a Museum to prove his point. It's a run down old restaurant in a small country town with a pink Cadillac out front that is supposedly the "Kings". This guy even has a casket set up with a mannequin that looks like Elvis. When I was there 8 years ago I was completely freaked out. It was the weirdest experience of my life. As a joke I asked the guy that runs the museum if he had seen Elvis today and he said, with a serious face, "Oh he was by here earlier this morning". Since Laura is such a huge fan of Elvis I thought I would stop so she could see this crazy place. I can't wait to see her face and expressions.
I was instructed this morning that it was my day to make our lunch. So I better get to making it. Have a good day everyone.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
34 Years
Yesterday was the anniversary of Roe vs. Wade. I have read several blogs that were talking about the anniversary; some for abortion and some against it.
Growing up as a Jehovah's Witness I was taught that abortion is wrong. No questions asked. It is wrong. When it was brought up about a woman being raped and becoming pregnant I was always told, "it's not the baby's fault" and so many other things. When I was about 11 years old there was a woman in our congregation that was working at a local mall. On her way out one night she was raped and became pregnant. At the time she had a boyfriend and they ended up getting married and having the baby. Before the baby was born there was an "announcement" at our congregation about the situation and that we should support her the best way we could. That is about all I know about the situation. I was too young to really grasp what was going on or to ask more questions. I do remember when the baby was born and he was accepted into the congregation and loved like all the new babies were. My Mother used this situation as as a lesson for me. She told me "yes he was here because of a rape, but it was not his fault and he is still loved very much."
My parents also used the fact that I was adopted as a way to teach me about abortion. Abortion became legal 5 months before I was born. My Mother always said, "if abortion was legal when you were conceived there is a good chance you wouldn't be here." I remember using my adoption as a reason why I was against abortion.
Now that I am *free* of the cult thinking, my view on abortion has changed. I often think back to that young lady in my congregation that was raped and became pregnant. Would she have done things differently? Because of the rape did she ever really bond with that child? So many questions, so little answers.
I can't say that I would never have an abortion. If I was raped I think I would find it hard to see beyond the rape and see the child that is indeed half mine. Is that fair to the child?
I pray that I never have to face that situation.
Growing up as a Jehovah's Witness I was taught that abortion is wrong. No questions asked. It is wrong. When it was brought up about a woman being raped and becoming pregnant I was always told, "it's not the baby's fault" and so many other things. When I was about 11 years old there was a woman in our congregation that was working at a local mall. On her way out one night she was raped and became pregnant. At the time she had a boyfriend and they ended up getting married and having the baby. Before the baby was born there was an "announcement" at our congregation about the situation and that we should support her the best way we could. That is about all I know about the situation. I was too young to really grasp what was going on or to ask more questions. I do remember when the baby was born and he was accepted into the congregation and loved like all the new babies were. My Mother used this situation as as a lesson for me. She told me "yes he was here because of a rape, but it was not his fault and he is still loved very much."
My parents also used the fact that I was adopted as a way to teach me about abortion. Abortion became legal 5 months before I was born. My Mother always said, "if abortion was legal when you were conceived there is a good chance you wouldn't be here." I remember using my adoption as a reason why I was against abortion.
Now that I am *free* of the cult thinking, my view on abortion has changed. I often think back to that young lady in my congregation that was raped and became pregnant. Would she have done things differently? Because of the rape did she ever really bond with that child? So many questions, so little answers.
I can't say that I would never have an abortion. If I was raped I think I would find it hard to see beyond the rape and see the child that is indeed half mine. Is that fair to the child?
I pray that I never have to face that situation.
Tuesday Pictures
I am finding that our pets are very funny. They have adapted very well to me being home all day. In fact, I think I heard one of them say, "it's so good to see her all day". I had a radio at work and when I brought all my stuff home we put it in the Sophie-dogs room. Yes she does have a room. We put her in the room when we go somewhere because she has showed us that she can not be trusted to her own devices. We used to just shut the door, but now we have a baby gate so the door is open and the cats can still come and go and provide some company for her. Well yesterday we had the radio on to a country station. This country station is called "The Wolf" and every once in a while you hear a wolf as part of their advertisement. Sophie was downstairs on the couch when this commercial came on and Sophie started barking. We decided not to leave it on that station when we are gone because I think that would just drive her nuts.
Here is Sophie. Poor dog has an itch on her back. I love watching her wiggle around on her back. She seems to think it's pretty funny herself as well.
This is Bonk our *almost* 20 year old cat.
Here is our *baby* Ben. He really thinks he is human and it amazes me at the different positions that he will lay in. He is the only one that will let me hold him like a baby.
This is what happens when we buy the cheap cat litter. Bonk requested we stop buying the cheap litter because it keeps sticking to her nose.
Another picture of the litter nose. We were laughing so hard, but she didn't seem too amused by our laughter.
Here is our kitty Brady. He is the most loving and affectionate cat. I think of all of them he is the most excited that I am home during the day. Laura and Brady have a love/hate relationship. They are both so jealous of each other it's not even funny. Every night Brady sleeps on my pillows and stretches out his paws to put them on my face. So sweet.
Here is Sophie. Poor dog has an itch on her back. I love watching her wiggle around on her back. She seems to think it's pretty funny herself as well.
This is Bonk our *almost* 20 year old cat.
Here is our *baby* Ben. He really thinks he is human and it amazes me at the different positions that he will lay in. He is the only one that will let me hold him like a baby.
This is what happens when we buy the cheap cat litter. Bonk requested we stop buying the cheap litter because it keeps sticking to her nose.
Another picture of the litter nose. We were laughing so hard, but she didn't seem too amused by our laughter.
Here is our kitty Brady. He is the most loving and affectionate cat. I think of all of them he is the most excited that I am home during the day. Laura and Brady have a love/hate relationship. They are both so jealous of each other it's not even funny. Every night Brady sleeps on my pillows and stretches out his paws to put them on my face. So sweet.Monday, January 22, 2007
You Asked...I Answer
What great questions you all had. Here are the answers.
1) Sharon asked: Is it Carol-LINe or Carol-LYN? It is CaroLINE. My family call me Carolyn, but still spell it Caroline. I used to hate my name growing up, but now LOVE my name; the way it is pronounced as well as spelled.
2) Sandra asked: If you could live anywhere in the world, assuming you had jobs and all that practical stuff covered....where would you live? I would probably have to have two houses. One in Northern Minnesota and then one in the Florida Keys. If it were up to me I would live in Minnesota all the time, but I don't think Laura would put up with the cold temps and snow.
3) Anonymous asked: What are the top 3 date night destinations in KC? I would have to say for us it would be 1) Marina Grog and Galley 2) Kokopelli's and 3) Plaza
4) Eye of the Rainbow asked: How many colors are in a rainbow flag and what does each color stand for? And do you own a rainbow flag? I thought this was a wonderful question. If you click here you can see what the colors on the flag mean and the history. Very interesting. We don't have a rainbow flag, but lots of things in our house with the rainbow on it.
5) Lynilu asked: What is the best thing in your life BESIDES each other?
Caroline--I would have to say all our furry pets. When I was by myself they were my companions. They were always there greeting me when I came home and loved me no matter how crazy I acted.
Laura-- My family
6) Sassyfemme asked: Tell us the story of how you guys met and fell in love? When I was working in a small town south of KC I met Laura through my job. We met on May 7, 2004. Two weeks later I gave her my phone number and she asked when I would be home and settled so she could call. I told her 8pm and would you believe she waited until 8:45pm to call me. I thought for sure she wasn't going to call me. She later said she waited on purpose. That first night we talked until 2am. After talking nonstop on the phone for one week (boy was my Mom mad since she couldn't get through on the phone line) we set up our first date for May 28th. (the day before my b-day) We were together from then on and Laura officially moved in late July.
7) Trop asked: a) What is the meanest thing you have ever done? I was mean to a girl in middle school because her Mom had MS. I regret that moment to this day.
b) What book has had the most profound influence on your life? I would have to say Pat Conroy's "The Prince of Tides". It was that book that I realized how much fun reading can be. I thank my English teacher in 10th grade for that.
c) What is one thing you wanted as a kid but never got? A younger brother or sister.
d) How much money would you like to be making in ten years? More then what I am now.
e) What is the hardest thing for you to do? Parrell park
f) If you were a professional wrestler, what would your ring name be? I have no idea
g) What do you hate sharing with people? My pens
h) What odd body habits do you have? I pick at the calicus' on my feet
i) How would you rate yourself on the political scale? Liberal
j) Who is your favorie television animal? Snoopy
Whew!!
8) Ace of Spades asked: a) What is your favorite restaraunt? Either "On the Border" or "Kokopellli's b) What is your favorite food? Mexican c) What characteristics does your ideal partner have? Honest and caring d) Where did you two meet and who made the first move? I made the first move.
9) Patticake asked: In light of your recent influx of wintry weather: Would you rather build a snowman or a snow angel and why? I would rather build a snowman because I wouldn't get so cold and it would last longer then a snow angel.
1) Sharon asked: Is it Carol-LINe or Carol-LYN? It is CaroLINE. My family call me Carolyn, but still spell it Caroline. I used to hate my name growing up, but now LOVE my name; the way it is pronounced as well as spelled.
2) Sandra asked: If you could live anywhere in the world, assuming you had jobs and all that practical stuff covered....where would you live? I would probably have to have two houses. One in Northern Minnesota and then one in the Florida Keys. If it were up to me I would live in Minnesota all the time, but I don't think Laura would put up with the cold temps and snow.
3) Anonymous asked: What are the top 3 date night destinations in KC? I would have to say for us it would be 1) Marina Grog and Galley 2) Kokopelli's and 3) Plaza
4) Eye of the Rainbow asked: How many colors are in a rainbow flag and what does each color stand for? And do you own a rainbow flag? I thought this was a wonderful question. If you click here you can see what the colors on the flag mean and the history. Very interesting. We don't have a rainbow flag, but lots of things in our house with the rainbow on it.
5) Lynilu asked: What is the best thing in your life BESIDES each other?
Caroline--I would have to say all our furry pets. When I was by myself they were my companions. They were always there greeting me when I came home and loved me no matter how crazy I acted.
Laura-- My family
6) Sassyfemme asked: Tell us the story of how you guys met and fell in love? When I was working in a small town south of KC I met Laura through my job. We met on May 7, 2004. Two weeks later I gave her my phone number and she asked when I would be home and settled so she could call. I told her 8pm and would you believe she waited until 8:45pm to call me. I thought for sure she wasn't going to call me. She later said she waited on purpose. That first night we talked until 2am. After talking nonstop on the phone for one week (boy was my Mom mad since she couldn't get through on the phone line) we set up our first date for May 28th. (the day before my b-day) We were together from then on and Laura officially moved in late July.
7) Trop asked: a) What is the meanest thing you have ever done? I was mean to a girl in middle school because her Mom had MS. I regret that moment to this day.
b) What book has had the most profound influence on your life? I would have to say Pat Conroy's "The Prince of Tides". It was that book that I realized how much fun reading can be. I thank my English teacher in 10th grade for that.
c) What is one thing you wanted as a kid but never got? A younger brother or sister.
d) How much money would you like to be making in ten years? More then what I am now.
e) What is the hardest thing for you to do? Parrell park
f) If you were a professional wrestler, what would your ring name be? I have no idea
g) What do you hate sharing with people? My pens
h) What odd body habits do you have? I pick at the calicus' on my feet
i) How would you rate yourself on the political scale? Liberal
j) Who is your favorie television animal? Snoopy
Whew!!
8) Ace of Spades asked: a) What is your favorite restaraunt? Either "On the Border" or "Kokopellli's b) What is your favorite food? Mexican c) What characteristics does your ideal partner have? Honest and caring d) Where did you two meet and who made the first move? I made the first move.
9) Patticake asked: In light of your recent influx of wintry weather: Would you rather build a snowman or a snow angel and why? I would rather build a snowman because I wouldn't get so cold and it would last longer then a snow angel.
Morning
It has been a very bad morning. We woke up and things were going really well. I was feeling good, Laura was feeling good and we were planning our trip to the gym. I heard several neighborhood dogs barking, including our Sophie. I went out front and noticed two kids waiting to get on the school bus. Then I looked down on the ground. One of our stray kittens had been killed. He (or she) was just laying in the snow. My heart sank. Then we noticed a brown/tan dog in the neighbors driveway.
After getting the kitten off the ground I called animal control. I told them they needed to send someone because this dog had just killed one of our cats. (ok I know it's not really one of ours, but still) They said they would send someone. We tried to catch the dog but he ran off.
I did end up catching the dog and put him in our backyard. I called Animal control back and told them I had the dog in our yard and please send someone out ASAP. I accounted for all the other strays, who by the way are scared shitless.
Animal Control finally showed up and the damn dog was gone. We have a 5ft fence and that son of a bitch jumped the fence and got out.
This dog is in our yard every single day. I didn't think he would hurt any of the cats, but apparently this morning he had a different idea. Animal Control was going to continue to look for him, but I am sure he is back home now. If I see him I am putting him in our garage and going animal control again.
I didn't see this dog actually kill the kitten, but he sure looked guilty. Fucker.
Off to another subject: thank you all for the questions. I am going to be doing a post tonight with my answers. I have quite a few to answer, thanks to some of you plus I need to do some research on one of them.
I am excited because Thursday Laura and I are going on a road trip. We are going to St. Louis for the day. I am thrilled to be getting out of the city. We are going to pick up her new girlfriend. I never thought I would have to share Laura with someone, but apparently I have no choice. Any guesses on what/who her new girlfriend is?
After getting the kitten off the ground I called animal control. I told them they needed to send someone because this dog had just killed one of our cats. (ok I know it's not really one of ours, but still) They said they would send someone. We tried to catch the dog but he ran off.
I did end up catching the dog and put him in our backyard. I called Animal control back and told them I had the dog in our yard and please send someone out ASAP. I accounted for all the other strays, who by the way are scared shitless.
Animal Control finally showed up and the damn dog was gone. We have a 5ft fence and that son of a bitch jumped the fence and got out.
This dog is in our yard every single day. I didn't think he would hurt any of the cats, but apparently this morning he had a different idea. Animal Control was going to continue to look for him, but I am sure he is back home now. If I see him I am putting him in our garage and going animal control again.
I didn't see this dog actually kill the kitten, but he sure looked guilty. Fucker.
Off to another subject: thank you all for the questions. I am going to be doing a post tonight with my answers. I have quite a few to answer, thanks to some of you plus I need to do some research on one of them.
I am excited because Thursday Laura and I are going on a road trip. We are going to St. Louis for the day. I am thrilled to be getting out of the city. We are going to pick up her new girlfriend. I never thought I would have to share Laura with someone, but apparently I have no choice. Any guesses on what/who her new girlfriend is?
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Ask Away
Ok, Laura and I really need something to keep us busy today. It's been one full week of bad weather.So I am asking all my loyal readers to ask me a question, any question. I will then do a post with all the questions and answers.
We're waiting..ask away.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
What to do.......
What to do when my baby says she needs something from the store and she doesn't think she can wait until the snow stops??????
Of course I went to the grocery store for her. It is Saturday night. :) Plus I needed to get a Powerball ticket since the jackpot is $205 million. I am already spending the millions...
Here is a shot out our front door. Notice all the kitty prints? They have all gone under the front steps for shelter from the storm. Our front steps are concrete and they have dug out a hole to get right next to the house. Smart kitties.
Of course I went to the grocery store for her. It is Saturday night. :) Plus I needed to get a Powerball ticket since the jackpot is $205 million. I am already spending the millions...
Here is a shot out our front door. Notice all the kitty prints? They have all gone under the front steps for shelter from the storm. Our front steps are concrete and they have dug out a hole to get right next to the house. Smart kitties.Water & Snow
Today was suppose to be my day off at the gym, but with a snow storm on it's way into town I decided I better get to the gym just in case we can't make it out tomorrow. I was feeling like I needed to do something a little different today so I did a 40 minute work out in the pool. We are so lucky that our gym has a resistance pool where you can do laps. And I knew getting in the water would be so good for me mentally.
I had not gotten into my bathing suit since August. I was very curious as to how it was going to look. Well, I saw the light. Looking at yourself nekkid in the mirror I always see my flaws or areas that I still need to work on. I put on that suit, looked in the mirror and was so happy with all the work that I have done. It was nice seeing that my hard work is paying off. Laura stood there with her mouth open at how good I looked. She had nothing but complements for me. And to be honest it was wonderful to hear those complements.
We were both expecting the pool area to be empty today, but we were so wrong. We didn't even think of all the little kids swimming lessons that would be going on. I had a full crowd watching me doing my laps in the resistance pool. I first started out thinking that I was going to do 20, but once 20 came I decided I could do more. I ended up doing 50. It was a harder workout then I thought. Coming out of the pool my legs felt like they were 50lbs each. Whew!!
We are expecting 5-10 inches of snow tonight and tomorrow. I love snow and am looking forward to it. Laura on the other hand is waging a war against Mother Nature. Personally I think Laura is losing big time. Thankfully we are only expecting snow. I don't think I could handle any more ice. Our 9 year old nephew who lives 40 minutes south of us was out of school all of last week because of the ice. There are many country gravel roads and apparently they got a lot more ice then we did. If we get all this snow nephew may be out a few more days next week also. I think nephew and especially Grandma are really anxious for school to start again.
I hope everyone has a great weekend. Thank you for all your kind comments. It's been a rough couple of days, but the love and support I have in my home as well as bloggerland is really helping me get out of this funk. Thank you. I heart all of you.
P.S. It has now started snowing. Do you hear that? Yes, that would be Laura cussing.
I had not gotten into my bathing suit since August. I was very curious as to how it was going to look. Well, I saw the light. Looking at yourself nekkid in the mirror I always see my flaws or areas that I still need to work on. I put on that suit, looked in the mirror and was so happy with all the work that I have done. It was nice seeing that my hard work is paying off. Laura stood there with her mouth open at how good I looked. She had nothing but complements for me. And to be honest it was wonderful to hear those complements.
We were both expecting the pool area to be empty today, but we were so wrong. We didn't even think of all the little kids swimming lessons that would be going on. I had a full crowd watching me doing my laps in the resistance pool. I first started out thinking that I was going to do 20, but once 20 came I decided I could do more. I ended up doing 50. It was a harder workout then I thought. Coming out of the pool my legs felt like they were 50lbs each. Whew!!
We are expecting 5-10 inches of snow tonight and tomorrow. I love snow and am looking forward to it. Laura on the other hand is waging a war against Mother Nature. Personally I think Laura is losing big time. Thankfully we are only expecting snow. I don't think I could handle any more ice. Our 9 year old nephew who lives 40 minutes south of us was out of school all of last week because of the ice. There are many country gravel roads and apparently they got a lot more ice then we did. If we get all this snow nephew may be out a few more days next week also. I think nephew and especially Grandma are really anxious for school to start again.
I hope everyone has a great weekend. Thank you for all your kind comments. It's been a rough couple of days, but the love and support I have in my home as well as bloggerland is really helping me get out of this funk. Thank you. I heart all of you.
P.S. It has now started snowing. Do you hear that? Yes, that would be Laura cussing.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Thankful
This blog has always been a safe place for me. I started it because I needed to get out the feelings I was having in regards to my religion Jehovah's Witness as well as being disowned from my entire family. Not just a few distant family members that don't want to talk to me because I am gay, but my entire family. Not one person that I consider family talks with me. I needed a place that I could take my thoughts and get them out.
In the process of getting all my feelings out I have met and made numerous people that I now consider friends. I never, in my wildest dreams, thought I would have such loyal readers and so many people that are there to support me no matter what. Everyday I am thankful for all that support, advice and encouragement you have given me.
This is my space and I will not tolerate any comments that are negative towards me or my family. It is all very simple:
I-WILL-NOT-T-O-L-E-R-A-T-E.
End of discussion.
In the process of getting all my feelings out I have met and made numerous people that I now consider friends. I never, in my wildest dreams, thought I would have such loyal readers and so many people that are there to support me no matter what. Everyday I am thankful for all that support, advice and encouragement you have given me.
This is my space and I will not tolerate any comments that are negative towards me or my family. It is all very simple:
I-WILL-NOT-T-O-L-E-R-A-T-E.
End of discussion.
What I Learned My First Week
Well my first week of being home is almost over. I have learned some important things this past week. Here is my list.
*We now eat our big meal at noon and have a lighter meal in the evenings. I love doing this and it seems to be working. I have no heartburn at night and it's nice going to bed without a completely full stomach.
*Going to the gym first thing in the morning is the best thing for me. I get it over with and I really watch what I eat rest of the day.
*We have had wild winter weather in the week that I have been off and are now expecting 6 inches of snow tomorrow night. It's not as much fun when there isn't a chance that I will be off work. Don't get me wrong I love snow, but this ice has got to go. Our driveway is still one big sheet of ice. Just yesterday all the ice melted off my car. It's a mess here.
*I think I am addicted to court shows during the day. I watch all of them: Divorce Court, Judge Judy, Judge Mathis and Judge Joe Brown. Any suggestions on how to stop watching these brainless shows?
*The animals are very confused as to why I am home. They keep looking at me like, "I thought you had a job?" I think I have really messed up their routine.
*It really makes a difference when I am working out with my MP3 player. Having my own music makes the workout seem easier. My personal favorite song for this week is Rock Star by Nickleback. Great workout song.
*Depression hurts. I finally realized that I am a little depressed. I think it's the change in routine. It sucks and I am trying so hard to get out of this funk and not make like so difficult for me and Laura.
*We now eat our big meal at noon and have a lighter meal in the evenings. I love doing this and it seems to be working. I have no heartburn at night and it's nice going to bed without a completely full stomach.
*Going to the gym first thing in the morning is the best thing for me. I get it over with and I really watch what I eat rest of the day.
*We have had wild winter weather in the week that I have been off and are now expecting 6 inches of snow tomorrow night. It's not as much fun when there isn't a chance that I will be off work. Don't get me wrong I love snow, but this ice has got to go. Our driveway is still one big sheet of ice. Just yesterday all the ice melted off my car. It's a mess here.
*I think I am addicted to court shows during the day. I watch all of them: Divorce Court, Judge Judy, Judge Mathis and Judge Joe Brown. Any suggestions on how to stop watching these brainless shows?
*The animals are very confused as to why I am home. They keep looking at me like, "I thought you had a job?" I think I have really messed up their routine.
*It really makes a difference when I am working out with my MP3 player. Having my own music makes the workout seem easier. My personal favorite song for this week is Rock Star by Nickleback. Great workout song.
*Depression hurts. I finally realized that I am a little depressed. I think it's the change in routine. It sucks and I am trying so hard to get out of this funk and not make like so difficult for me and Laura.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Another Meme
Both Laura and I were tagged by Sharon. So here are our answers.
1. If you had to choose one vice in exclusion of all others what would it be?
L--Excluding all others is tough…filet mignon with a berlinaise sauce.
C--I would probably still have steak fajitas. I love, love fajitas.
2. If you could change one specific thing about the world what would it be?
L--Poverty- I read a quote which really had an impact on me. “If you have a roof over your head, food on your table, and clothes on your back, you have more than 75% of the people in the world.”
C--Human Rights-I think all humans should have the same rights no matter your color, religion or sexual orientation. Just because I love another woman doesn't mean I am a second class citizen as some would think.
3. Name the cartoon character you identify with the most.
L-- Sylvester the Cat- He reminds me of when I was a kid. I went to school one day to come home to a pink patchwork designed bedroom. To rebel, my tomboy self bought a velvet picture of Sylvester the cat to hang on my wall. Mom hated it.
C--The Smurfs-this all started when I was in middle school and a guy (Dan Renzi from the Real World-Miami) I was dating started calling me "smurfy". It is similar to my last name.
4. If you could live one day in your life over again which one would it be?
L-- When an ex said something that should have been a clue to me, I didn’t have the self-worth to walk away. I rehearse that day in my mind too much.
C--The last time I was at my parents house (August 2004). I think I would have spoke up more and told my parents exactly what I thought of how they were treating me. I think things can come across better if you hear them face to face rather then in an email.
5. If you could go back in history and spend a day with one person who would it be?
L-- Harper Lee as she was writing To Kill a Mockingbird. It’s her only book, and I want to know what she was thinking as she prepared the manuscript. She vowed never to write again.
C--My birthmother. Even though I was with her the day she had to say goodbye to me I wish I could remember what she said to me, etc.
6. What is the one thing you lost, sold or threw away that you wish you could have back?
L-- My Fuji Petite Ace road bike. It was the perfect fit, but I got rid of it in a pity party after I broke my ankle.
C--I really have no idea.
7. What is your one most important contribution to this world?
L-- In the past three years I’ve really grown up and been able to identify my priorities. I’d say the people I love know I love them. I’m proud of the way I show that unconditionally.
C--My good heart. If I saw someone that was needing something I would do anything to help that person. I guess that's why I am a social worker.
8. What is your one hidden talent that nearly no one knows about?
L-- I’m a poet. It makes sense with all the writing I do, but I don’t share much anymore. I did in college and I’ve read pieces to an audience.
C--I am double jointed in my arms and fingers.
9. What is your most cherished possession?
L-- I don’t want to copy of Sharon; however, not copying has the potential to get me in trouble. I’ll say Sophie cat. LOL
C--Our computers since it has all our pictures on it.
10. What one person influenced your life the most when growing up?
L-- My father. We are so much alike. His positive characteristics are mine, and his flaws are mine. It was a slam in the face when as an adult I had some of his traits which drove me crazy. I work on those and love him in spite of them
C--My Grandmothers. They were very different from one another, but both taught me some very important lessons.
11. What one word describes you better than any other?
L--C. says friendly because I can’t help it.
C--Laura says genuine. And what she says around here goes.
1. If you had to choose one vice in exclusion of all others what would it be?
L--Excluding all others is tough…filet mignon with a berlinaise sauce.
C--I would probably still have steak fajitas. I love, love fajitas.
2. If you could change one specific thing about the world what would it be?
L--Poverty- I read a quote which really had an impact on me. “If you have a roof over your head, food on your table, and clothes on your back, you have more than 75% of the people in the world.”
C--Human Rights-I think all humans should have the same rights no matter your color, religion or sexual orientation. Just because I love another woman doesn't mean I am a second class citizen as some would think.
3. Name the cartoon character you identify with the most.
L-- Sylvester the Cat- He reminds me of when I was a kid. I went to school one day to come home to a pink patchwork designed bedroom. To rebel, my tomboy self bought a velvet picture of Sylvester the cat to hang on my wall. Mom hated it.
C--The Smurfs-this all started when I was in middle school and a guy (Dan Renzi from the Real World-Miami) I was dating started calling me "smurfy". It is similar to my last name.
4. If you could live one day in your life over again which one would it be?
L-- When an ex said something that should have been a clue to me, I didn’t have the self-worth to walk away. I rehearse that day in my mind too much.
C--The last time I was at my parents house (August 2004). I think I would have spoke up more and told my parents exactly what I thought of how they were treating me. I think things can come across better if you hear them face to face rather then in an email.
5. If you could go back in history and spend a day with one person who would it be?
L-- Harper Lee as she was writing To Kill a Mockingbird. It’s her only book, and I want to know what she was thinking as she prepared the manuscript. She vowed never to write again.
C--My birthmother. Even though I was with her the day she had to say goodbye to me I wish I could remember what she said to me, etc.
6. What is the one thing you lost, sold or threw away that you wish you could have back?
L-- My Fuji Petite Ace road bike. It was the perfect fit, but I got rid of it in a pity party after I broke my ankle.
C--I really have no idea.
7. What is your one most important contribution to this world?
L-- In the past three years I’ve really grown up and been able to identify my priorities. I’d say the people I love know I love them. I’m proud of the way I show that unconditionally.
C--My good heart. If I saw someone that was needing something I would do anything to help that person. I guess that's why I am a social worker.
8. What is your one hidden talent that nearly no one knows about?
L-- I’m a poet. It makes sense with all the writing I do, but I don’t share much anymore. I did in college and I’ve read pieces to an audience.
C--I am double jointed in my arms and fingers.
9. What is your most cherished possession?
L-- I don’t want to copy of Sharon; however, not copying has the potential to get me in trouble. I’ll say Sophie cat. LOL
C--Our computers since it has all our pictures on it.
10. What one person influenced your life the most when growing up?
L-- My father. We are so much alike. His positive characteristics are mine, and his flaws are mine. It was a slam in the face when as an adult I had some of his traits which drove me crazy. I work on those and love him in spite of them
C--My Grandmothers. They were very different from one another, but both taught me some very important lessons.
11. What one word describes you better than any other?
L--C. says friendly because I can’t help it.
C--Laura says genuine. And what she says around here goes.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Day in the Life of our Pets
Since I have been home I have noticed that there is a lot of activity in our home during the day thanks to our pets. As you will see in these pictures; the fun never ends.
Brady has decided he likes sleeping in the sink. Do you know how hard it is to run the water with him in there? Most times he just sits there with the water dripping on him. I think he may be mentally retarded. Did you notice him winking?
The dog on the other hand has decided she loves my pillow.
Here is the dog again and it appears she is sticking her tongue out at me. Disobedience is a big no no in our home. Can't you tell?
With it being so cold outside we are all trying to stay warm. Astro decided he needed to be under the warmth of the blanket. No we did not put the blanket on top of him. He jumped on the couch and got under the blanket. It may be cute here, but when he comes up in the middle of the night to our bed it doesn't feel that great. Laura swears he has punctured her lung at least two times.
Here is Brady (orange) and Bonk chasing each other. Bonk is almost 20 years old and she still holds her ground pretty well. I love this shot. Actually, I think they were fighting over the box.
Here is the dog trying to figure out what all the commotion is with the box. She doesn't understand what the big deal is.
Here is Astro (left) and Brady (right). I could spend $100 on new cat toys, but what do they like best? A damn box. BTW, Astro is not taking a dump he is just too big to fit in the box. Sorry Astro, but it's true.
Here is Bonk in the box. It amazes me how much they love this stupid box.
And here is Bonk throwing up in that box. The cats seemed very upset that their new toy/bed was now gone.
It's been fun watching all the routines the cats have. You will notice that two cats are not shown in the pictures; Ben and Sophie-cat. Those two spent the entire day sleeping. Oh, the life of a cat.
Brady has decided he likes sleeping in the sink. Do you know how hard it is to run the water with him in there? Most times he just sits there with the water dripping on him. I think he may be mentally retarded. Did you notice him winking?
The dog on the other hand has decided she loves my pillow.
Here is the dog again and it appears she is sticking her tongue out at me. Disobedience is a big no no in our home. Can't you tell?
With it being so cold outside we are all trying to stay warm. Astro decided he needed to be under the warmth of the blanket. No we did not put the blanket on top of him. He jumped on the couch and got under the blanket. It may be cute here, but when he comes up in the middle of the night to our bed it doesn't feel that great. Laura swears he has punctured her lung at least two times.
Here is Brady (orange) and Bonk chasing each other. Bonk is almost 20 years old and she still holds her ground pretty well. I love this shot. Actually, I think they were fighting over the box.
Here is the dog trying to figure out what all the commotion is with the box. She doesn't understand what the big deal is.
Here is Astro (left) and Brady (right). I could spend $100 on new cat toys, but what do they like best? A damn box. BTW, Astro is not taking a dump he is just too big to fit in the box. Sorry Astro, but it's true.
Here is Bonk in the box. It amazes me how much they love this stupid box.
And here is Bonk throwing up in that box. The cats seemed very upset that their new toy/bed was now gone. It's been fun watching all the routines the cats have. You will notice that two cats are not shown in the pictures; Ben and Sophie-cat. Those two spent the entire day sleeping. Oh, the life of a cat.
A Time to Shop
Today was my day off at the gym so I decided it was a perfect time to go see if I could find something with my gift certificate from Target. After I dropped Laura off at the gym I first went and got a bagel. My little gay guy from the bagel shop was transferred to a different bagel shop so I went to his new store this morning in hopes of seeing him. When he first saw me he smiled real big and said "What are you doing all the way out here?" He then proceeded to give me a big hug. It was good seeing him and I plan on going back next week to see him again. It had been since Friday since I had a bagel and it was so damn good. I miss getting a bagel every morning, but I know it's better to have oatmeal then a bagel.
I then headed off to Target. Laura gave me strict guidelines on what I could spend my gift certificate on. It had to be something just for me. So that meant that cat liter was out of the picture. In fact as Laura was getting out of the car this morning her last words to me were, "if you come back with cat liter I am going to kick your ass." And believe me, she would. When I first walked into Target I was completely overwhelmed. So much stuff to look at. Here is a list of things I got.
*Bad Boys Heartbreak-Power Ballets--As most of you know I love the 80's and this CD is filled with love songs from the 80's. I love it. Laura on the other hand said "I just can't win" when she got in the car and it was playing. I am constantly amazed at our differences in music.
*6 pairs of socks--May not seem like a big deal, but I have a slight obsession with socks. I would pick up new socks every time we went to Walmart, but Laura forbids me. So I thought this gift certificate was the perfect opportunity to "get something for myself that I normally wouldn't buy". (quote from Laura prior to my visit to Target)
*2 new towels for the bath--We can never have too many bath towels
*6 new butter knives--I get so tired of not having butter knives that I decided to get some more. It's like socks and the dryer; we always seem to lose some while they are in the dishwasher
*4 Valentine Candles--I love candles and these are so cute and have little hearts all over them. I heart them.
*Bath Salt--I love baths and love having scented bubble bath or bath salts while I am taking a bath. It seems to help with dry skin during the winter
That's what I found this trip to Target. I still have $10 left so maybe I sneak off tomorrow and get some cat liter. Just kidding Laura.
I then headed off to Target. Laura gave me strict guidelines on what I could spend my gift certificate on. It had to be something just for me. So that meant that cat liter was out of the picture. In fact as Laura was getting out of the car this morning her last words to me were, "if you come back with cat liter I am going to kick your ass." And believe me, she would. When I first walked into Target I was completely overwhelmed. So much stuff to look at. Here is a list of things I got.
*Bad Boys Heartbreak-Power Ballets--As most of you know I love the 80's and this CD is filled with love songs from the 80's. I love it. Laura on the other hand said "I just can't win" when she got in the car and it was playing. I am constantly amazed at our differences in music.
*6 pairs of socks--May not seem like a big deal, but I have a slight obsession with socks. I would pick up new socks every time we went to Walmart, but Laura forbids me. So I thought this gift certificate was the perfect opportunity to "get something for myself that I normally wouldn't buy". (quote from Laura prior to my visit to Target)
*2 new towels for the bath--We can never have too many bath towels
*6 new butter knives--I get so tired of not having butter knives that I decided to get some more. It's like socks and the dryer; we always seem to lose some while they are in the dishwasher
*4 Valentine Candles--I love candles and these are so cute and have little hearts all over them. I heart them.
*Bath Salt--I love baths and love having scented bubble bath or bath salts while I am taking a bath. It seems to help with dry skin during the winter
That's what I found this trip to Target. I still have $10 left so maybe I sneak off tomorrow and get some cat liter. Just kidding Laura.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Meme
1. The phone rings. Who are you hoping it is? Hum...when I was at work I was always hoping it was Laura. At home..I am not too sure.
2. When shopping at the grocery store, do you return your cart? I try to, but when it's cold or rainy I don't always do.
3. In a social setting, are you more of a talker or a listener? I would be more of a listener. I am usually pretty shy when I get in a social setting.
4. If abandoned alone in the wilderness, would you survive? Maybe for a few days. But knowing me I would probably eat some poisonous berries.
5. Do you like to ride horses? Hate it, hate it!! When I was 9 my parents sent me to a Horse back riding camp in southern Missouri and it was the worst 2 weeks of my life. My dislike of horses goes back to when I was 8 and I got kicked off a horse.
6. Did you ever go to camp as a kid? Yes. I went here. I went for 6 summers as a kid and loved every minute of it.
7. What was your favorite board game as a kid? LIFE. In fact, it's still my favorite game.
8. If a sexy person was pursuing you, but you knew he/she was taken what would you do? Sounds like a trick question to me. NO, I would not.
9. Are you judgmental? Unfortunately I think I am at some times. I think I was taught this in my religious upbringings.
10. Would you date someone with different religious beliefs? Yes
11. Are you continuing your education? Nope, I am done. Have a Masters in Social Work
12. Do you know how to shoot a gun? When I was at camp I learned how to shoot a rifle.
13. If your house was on fire, what's the first thing you'd grab? My clothes and then the pets.
14. How often do you read books? Not as often as I should.
15. Do you think more about the past, present or future? Working on focusing on the present.
16. What is your favorite children's book? Charlotte's Web
17. How tall are you? 5'4
18. Where is your ideal house located? On a beach
19. Last person you talked to? Laura
21. When was the last time you were at Olive Garden? It's been a couple years. I was just telling Laura that we need to go there cause it sounds really good right now.
22. What are your keys on your key chain for? Car and house
23. What did you do last night? Watched Wife Swap and Super Nanny.
24. Where is your current pain at? Right knee
25. Do you like mustard? Yes, all kinds of mustard
26. Do you like your mom or dad? Sounds like another trick question to me. I love my parents, but at this moment I do not like them.
27. How long does it take you in the shower? 10 minutes
28. What movie do you want to see right now? Catch & Release
29. Do you put lotion on your dog or cats? Huh????
30. What did you do for New Year's? It's a secret....only Laura and a one other person know. Curious?
31. Do you think The Grudge was scary? What is The Grudge?
32. Do you own a camera phone? No
33. What's the last letter of your middle name? "N"
34. Who did you vote for on American Idol? I watch, but don't vote. Gee, sounds like a Jehovah's Witness to me.
Anyone up to doing a Meme? Let me know if you do this one.
2. When shopping at the grocery store, do you return your cart? I try to, but when it's cold or rainy I don't always do.
3. In a social setting, are you more of a talker or a listener? I would be more of a listener. I am usually pretty shy when I get in a social setting.
4. If abandoned alone in the wilderness, would you survive? Maybe for a few days. But knowing me I would probably eat some poisonous berries.
5. Do you like to ride horses? Hate it, hate it!! When I was 9 my parents sent me to a Horse back riding camp in southern Missouri and it was the worst 2 weeks of my life. My dislike of horses goes back to when I was 8 and I got kicked off a horse.
6. Did you ever go to camp as a kid? Yes. I went here. I went for 6 summers as a kid and loved every minute of it.
7. What was your favorite board game as a kid? LIFE. In fact, it's still my favorite game.
8. If a sexy person was pursuing you, but you knew he/she was taken what would you do? Sounds like a trick question to me. NO, I would not.
9. Are you judgmental? Unfortunately I think I am at some times. I think I was taught this in my religious upbringings.
10. Would you date someone with different religious beliefs? Yes
11. Are you continuing your education? Nope, I am done. Have a Masters in Social Work
12. Do you know how to shoot a gun? When I was at camp I learned how to shoot a rifle.
13. If your house was on fire, what's the first thing you'd grab? My clothes and then the pets.
14. How often do you read books? Not as often as I should.
15. Do you think more about the past, present or future? Working on focusing on the present.
16. What is your favorite children's book? Charlotte's Web
17. How tall are you? 5'4
18. Where is your ideal house located? On a beach
19. Last person you talked to? Laura
21. When was the last time you were at Olive Garden? It's been a couple years. I was just telling Laura that we need to go there cause it sounds really good right now.
22. What are your keys on your key chain for? Car and house
23. What did you do last night? Watched Wife Swap and Super Nanny.
24. Where is your current pain at? Right knee
25. Do you like mustard? Yes, all kinds of mustard
26. Do you like your mom or dad? Sounds like another trick question to me. I love my parents, but at this moment I do not like them.
27. How long does it take you in the shower? 10 minutes
28. What movie do you want to see right now? Catch & Release
29. Do you put lotion on your dog or cats? Huh????
30. What did you do for New Year's? It's a secret....only Laura and a one other person know. Curious?
31. Do you think The Grudge was scary? What is The Grudge?
32. Do you own a camera phone? No
33. What's the last letter of your middle name? "N"
34. Who did you vote for on American Idol? I watch, but don't vote. Gee, sounds like a Jehovah's Witness to me.
Anyone up to doing a Meme? Let me know if you do this one.
Just Another Day
You would think being off work I would be all rested with lots of energy. Nope. I am so tired!! Today started out by getting up around 7:30. I am still getting up around the same time that I used to get up. By 9:00am we were at the gym. I have decided to do 2 days at the gym and then one day off. I was going to try to do 5 days straight and then take 2 off, but I don't think my body will allow me to do that yet.
After the gym I was off to the grocery store. I know Laura is loving having me home. That means I do all the grocery shopping, cleaning around the house and laundry. With the cleaning I have found if I do a little each day then there are no major cleanings. The grocery store is still a challenge to me. I find myself being so overwhelmed by all the junk at the store. But I have a goal in mind and I am determined not to let anything get in my way. I find that if I am craving something then I tell myself that if I still want it tomorrow then I can have it. Usually I have forgotten about the craving by the next day.
I am now sitting on the couch watching "A Baby Story" thinking of how much I would love to have a little one at some point. Then I think that maybe I am not ready to give up my freedom yet or all the money that it would cost. I think I will just stick to my Facts of Life DVD's for now. (BTW, I don't know what is up with Youtube. I posted that video yesterday morning at 8am and it didn't show up on my blog until this morning at 2am--Crazy)
Happy Tuesday everyone!!!
After the gym I was off to the grocery store. I know Laura is loving having me home. That means I do all the grocery shopping, cleaning around the house and laundry. With the cleaning I have found if I do a little each day then there are no major cleanings. The grocery store is still a challenge to me. I find myself being so overwhelmed by all the junk at the store. But I have a goal in mind and I am determined not to let anything get in my way. I find that if I am craving something then I tell myself that if I still want it tomorrow then I can have it. Usually I have forgotten about the craving by the next day.
I am now sitting on the couch watching "A Baby Story" thinking of how much I would love to have a little one at some point. Then I think that maybe I am not ready to give up my freedom yet or all the money that it would cost. I think I will just stick to my Facts of Life DVD's for now. (BTW, I don't know what is up with Youtube. I posted that video yesterday morning at 8am and it didn't show up on my blog until this morning at 2am--Crazy)
Happy Tuesday everyone!!!
Day 1
After a trip to the gym this morning the Facts of Life Marathon will start. I am not sure what I am more excited for; getting out of the house after being in for two days or watching The Facts of Life.
Monday, January 15, 2007
To the Rescue
First thing this morning I called the company that installed our water heater in July to tell them what was going on. As they always are they were very nice and put us on the priority list. In fact, they said they were sending out the same guy that installed the water heater. And the wonderful news: there is a 6 year warranty on the water heater. Whew!!!!!!At 10am our friendly water heater guy showed up. He noticed 3 things going on. 1) The small gas leak 2) One of the pipes they installed in July was leaking and 3) The thermostat on the water heater was too low for us to get really hot water
He is here fixing all of these free of charge. The thermostat was blamed on the guy that was here working with him. That works for me.
We are getting snow this morning and are praying that we can get out to the gym once our water heater is fixed. I think it would do both me and Laura some good to get out of the house for a while today.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Ice Land
It appears this winter storm that has been beating up on our city continues to do so. We were suppose to get snow this afternoon, instead we are getting freezing rain. Since Friday we have been getting sleet which is not as bad as freezing rain. With freezing rain it sticks on everything and everything turns to ice. Here are some pictures.
My car is frozen shut. We didn't make it out to the gym today because of the weather and I told Laura to prepare herself that we might not be able to get out tomorrow. Temps are currently in the teens and we aren't suppose to get above freezing until next weekend.
Notice all the white stuff. That's all ice, not snow. It's impossible to walk anywhere. Trust me on that.
Here is our back deck. Yes those are still Christmas lights up. I had planned on taking them down this weekend, but they are frozen to the deck. Darn.
Here is the front yard. As I was taking this picture a car drove by very slowly. I saw another car that was not able to get up their driveway.
We pray that we don't lose power tonight. The ice is building up on the power lines and trees which is never good.
Be sure to read my other post from today about our near death experience.
My car is frozen shut. We didn't make it out to the gym today because of the weather and I told Laura to prepare herself that we might not be able to get out tomorrow. Temps are currently in the teens and we aren't suppose to get above freezing until next weekend.
Notice all the white stuff. That's all ice, not snow. It's impossible to walk anywhere. Trust me on that.
Here is our back deck. Yes those are still Christmas lights up. I had planned on taking them down this weekend, but they are frozen to the deck. Darn.
Here is the front yard. As I was taking this picture a car drove by very slowly. I saw another car that was not able to get up their driveway. We pray that we don't lose power tonight. The ice is building up on the power lines and trees which is never good.
Be sure to read my other post from today about our near death experience.
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