Holiday Feeling

As all of the holly jollies are coming to an end, and snow is on the horizon AGAIN, its nice to take the time to reflect on the ever so fastly moving Christmas holiday.

For me, this Christmas was different from the 24 I have had in the past. A good different, a scary different, a different that was bound to happen at some point. ... This was the very first year I did not wake up Christmas morning at my parents house with my only 4 years younger brother waking up at the crack of dawn to open presents. (Any other day, it may take a glass of ice cold water to the face to wake him up!)

This year I spent Christmas Eve at my boyfriends parents and we spent Christmas day at mine...And as different as it was, its a grown up feeling that this is how life is supposed to be, and change will happen, ready or not...

Its so different to see the traditions other families have started throughout the years, and very exciting thinking about someday starting our own and/or carrying on the same ones. Fonduing on Christmas Eve, sleigh rides and a fulfilling breakfast on Christmas day. Board games and laughing, and maybe drinking a little too much. As stressful as I make all the gift giving and shopping , the where are we going and when's, making new traditions and doing old ones with our families gives me that holiday feeling I felt years ago when I still believed in Santa.....

Tis the Season

Christmas time..For me, my most favorite time of the year...

It all starts on Black Friday. What better way to get sucked into the Christmas spirit than standing in line at Target for 4 hours in the freezing cold, 50 yard dashing to the cheap TV's, battling hundreds of people packed into stores like sardines, and not even sleeping because now Walmart has this bright idea of starting its deals at midnight...

Then there is decorations...Christmas lights, some extremely tacky, some extremely tasteful...some just so hideous you can't help but stare. Oh and don't forget those blow up decorations..

My mom has this special way of decorating their house..Full of snowmen and garland, lights and candles...normally smells like evergreen trees or baked apple pie....ahhh, amazing..

And snow...No worries this year in Minnesota. There is enough snow to go around....and around...and around...and apparently more coming on Christmas.

But with snow comes bad roads, and with bad roads come BAD DRIVERS. I mean really...how many years have you lived in Minnesota? Drive like it then...We should all be familiar with blowing snow and roads we could ice skate on...so start acting like it okay?!?! If you are going to drive 10 miles an hour, just stay home, and if you are going to drive 80....well when I pass you and laugh because you are stuck in the ditch...hehe I won....

This year a bunch of us rocked out an ugly sweater party as well...

The best part is Christmas isn't over yet, and the are many good times yet to come!

Have a great holiday season!

Homeowning 101

Overwhelming one could say, flat out frightening is maybe more appropriate. HGTV makes buying your first house look so easy.....

Don't be naive people, the television show Property Virgins, should be called, We will only show you 2 of the 1,298,435 steps of owning your first home.

I mean who would of thought that saving up money in your underwear drawer cannot be used for a down payment! They, (they as in the knowers of owning a house people) call this mattress money. And apparently since you technically cannot "track" this money, it cannot be used for your house down payment because it could be considered mortgage fraud..(apparently, the seller could actually give money to the buyer so the seller could get the house sold!) I know right..wish I would of thought of that! hehe, just kidding....

And again you don't just look at 3 houses, like on the show, you look at as many as it takes for you to either a)give up b)find one you like. For us, we looked at 10. At first it was so exciting...looking online for houses, thinking about how you would arrange your furniture....All too good to be true..

Note to self: Pictures are deceiving.....

One house we looked at was most likely used as a meth house at one time. I got a headache in the 3 minutes we were there and my first red flag should have been the leather jacket hanging from the electrical wire...not even joking..

And the approval process----First you get pre-approved..Yes this is basically saying you may or not be able to actually get the house you finally choose, but we will give you this letter to get your hopes up either way.... On the up side it really wasn't alot of paperwork, pay stubs, length of employment, bank statements.....not too bad...

So then when you do decide what house you want you sign something called a, "Purchase Agreement." This is basically saying, you now chose this house, we will cash your earnest money check if you and the seller agree on a price, you will pay more money for an inspection and appraisal, and maybe after that you will actually get the house...

Offering: Not when you give money at church, but the offer and counteroffer process...It can take weeks, back and forth, back and forth...I was so glad to finally, somewhat agree on a price, of course I would of always been okay with something lower.....

Inspection: First, it will always be worth the money you spend on it. Our purchase agreement was contingent on the inspection, basically saying we can walk away if anything is wrong and the seller won't fix it....okay not a bad deal, we would still be out the inspection, but not buying a money pit!

Back to overwhelming...Our inspector was great, very very educational especially when I'm someone who walks in to the house and starts thinking of paint colors and furniture......

I learned....
A) Caulk will be our best friend
B) St.Peter's ground is mostly sand, good for old foundations
C) To check a leaky toilet put food coloring in it...(could be kinda fun, see what colors we can make)
D) It is good if snow is still on the roof, meaning it is properly insulated.....
E) There is a right and wrong way to put in a furnance filter (what?!?! there are furnace filters!?)
And F) Toliets flush a certain amount of gallons, get the most energy efficent one..

Overall, the inspection went well, and now we are on the final stretch.

Closing date is supposed to be 12/10...and I can't wait. I'm scared and most likely will be broke.... However, I can't wait to do things my way and put stuff where I want...or I guess what we agree on anyways...many first times lie ahead and I couldn't be happier!

Hunting Opener Success

Every year I get so excited for hunting season. No, no, I'm not a hunter. If any of you know me, you may know I cried once because my mom killed a daddy long legs spider....(eek! and I hate spiders!) So the idea of me shooting a living thing is, well, just not... However, I have over come my sadness for killing spiders....

Okay, back to the point. Hunting season...My hunting season consists of getting together with my mom, aunt, and family friend to shop and craft!! This year we had some new additions as well, and I think we may even let them come next year! (kidding girls, you are wonderful new additions!)

The festivities begin around hunting opener and continue through the weekend. So normally a Friday-Sunday thing...This year we changed things a bit due to scheduling conflicts and such, and started Saturday and ended sadly on Monday.

Saturday I met the ladies at a garage sale around 10am. Boo! It turned out to be a flop....with good advertising skills...So moving on, we normally do the thrift store thing then moving on to places such as Hobby Lobby and Kohl's....We enjoyed lunch at Red Lobster where a few of us also enjoyed a few margaritas on the rocks! mmm....and who can go wrong with the Cheddar Bay Biscuits...delectable...

We took our time from store to store and before we knew it we were shopping at Kohls at 11pm!!! And we still had to go to dreaded Wal-Mart...Sore feet, slight hallucinations and hungriness later, we decide to hit up Taco Bell before our drive home...The lobby was closed, so bummed and starving we made our way through the drive through, parked, and inhaled our food...

We finally made it home, and I could not go to bed fast enough, or at least put my aching feet up..14 hours of shopping...wow! Currently, I never want to go shopping again.

Revived and refreshed we woke up Sunday for crafting. Sanding boards, preparing our paints, and deciding really what we wanted to create always has to be accompanied by some sort of alcohol. Some enjoyed Mojitos, some enjoyed Bloody Mary's, some enjoyed a few too many beers and had trouble with the steps...but at least managed to keep MOST of the paint where it was supposed to be!

We created a few more than pictured, however they are going to be gifts, so they cannot be disclosed at this time.

All and all, it was an amazing hunting season opener again, and I already cannot wait till next year.

To my feet; you're welcome

Dear Feet,

I hope you are really pleased with me at least, because I am not so pleased with myself. Instead of running you to the bone tomorrow, I have opted out of the 1/2 marathon. You are welcome for keeping you from prune-looking, blistery, water- soaked madness.

See here is the thing. In the last month, you and I haven't done much running. I've been busy, you've been busy trying to keep up with me, and as we both know, we needed our sleep. You and I have visited about 10 houses, and you have done a great job checking the floors for cracks, scratches, etc. So maybe this is somewhat of a thank you.

I feel pretty bad about it letting myself down and all, but better to be safe I suppose.

I only ask one thing from you. How about we hit up the roads again soon? Maybe try to make it a regular occurrence once again?

Thanks for always being there for me, you really hold me up when I need it.

-Me

Rims,Tires, Valve Stems, Oh My!

I apologize if this offends someone. If any readers' brothers' girlfriends' moms' friends' son works at Tires Plus, again I'm sorry..But here is the thing...

About a month ago, my tire had a boo-boo, of which I thought a simple patch would fix. However, this was most certainly not the case. Instead, I was there for about an hour and a half, while a new, $100 tire was placed on my car.

Okay fine, put the damn tire on, and send me on my way....

Well, apparently if you have aluminum rims after about 60 miles you need to get the lug nuts tightened...(so i guess your wheel doesn't fall off?!) Okay fine, I'll come back and get them tightened...

Well, for about the last month (after my FIRST Tires Plus visit), my tire kept going flat..

Really?

I mean, really?

Okay fine, so I have to go back to Tires Plus...F...

So here's the thing, I stopped in, made an appointment, and then later arrived at my appointment time...actually 5 minutes before my appointment time.

I waited....15 minutes....30 minutes....my car was in the same spot that I parked it in, it never moved...45 minutes...the nauseating smell of tires filling my nose....1 hour....they finally moved my car...1 hour 15 minutes.....I was pacing in the waiting area..( a waiting area filled with tires, hard metal chairs, 10 waiting people, a water fountain, a 25 cent candy machine (damn it, I have no quarters), and a TV you cannot even see from the ridiculous chairs....1 hour 20 minutes...I finally approach the counter, trying to remain calm, and hold back the steam shooting from my ears," Do you know where you are at with the blue Nissan?" "2 minutes," the worker replies..Okay fine, I'm okay with 2 more minutes....

1 hour 25 minutes....I approach the counter again, "Is the blue Nissan done yet?" "2 minutes," the worker replies...Are you kidding me? Is this the only time frame you know dude?!? The last thing I want to do on my day off is spend time pacing your raunchy waiting area!!!!!!

1 hour 30 minutes....the worker tells me that he ordered a new sensor for my valve stem....Are you kidding me? I have to come back here? F..

And the best yet.....my stupid aluminum rims...after 60 miles...well you know...Are you kidding me?!?!

When this stupid sensor comes in, I'm dropping my car off at 7:30 am, so that hopefully by 4:15 pm...it may be close to done.

Caught on Camera

Oh my. Saturday.

Saturday I/we partook in a lovely couple's bachelorette/bachelor party...

Saturday I/we drank beer.

Saturday I/we drank tequila.

Saturday I/we drank tootsie pop shots.

Saturday Boones farm was poured into my mouth.

Saturday I/we ate cheesy turkey sandwhich after cheesy turkey sandwhich, with whole pickles.

Saturday I danced on a cooler.

Saturday I fell off a cooler.. (no pictures to be displayed..)

Saturday I/we played tippy cup.

Saturday I/we sprawled across a big white stuffed ape...

Saturday THEY ate the groom-to-be's underwear...

Saturday created amazing memories with some of my favorite people (thank god for cameras!)

---------------------------------------------------

Sunday I had a heart to heart with 2 friends, one of them being while I was in the shower...(Thank God for NO pictures!)

Sunday I/we were up until 5ish...the time is still unknown.

Sunday I took 2 naps.

Sunday I/we found bruises.

Sunday I/we had headaches...

Sunday I/we had hickeys...........

The wedding is going to be AMAZING! October 30,2010

23,25

23 days until the half marathon. I'm not sure if I am prepared.



I 'm not quite sure if it's the heavy breathing with an increase in pace, the feeling of death and relief when I finally see my house again, or the extremely soaked with sweat clothes I try to pull off my body, which by the way is an awfully hard task when your muscles feel like jello.



And the worst of it is my right knee is killing me. At some points in my run I'm almost afraid that my next step is going to be a face plant into the payment due to lack of my knee working. (This is why I run at 5am.) So if anyone from work is reading this, if I wouldn't show up to work without calling...I'm probably face planted into the payment, tears down my face, laughing, bawling, and not moving. --great image.



It must be this..See I turn 25 tomorrow. Really I was excited about this..at one point. I mean my car insurance goes down and I'm growing up. I have a wonderful family, friends, and I have met the man I want to marry....a good job, and we are currently on the house hunt. However, this whole body aching, hard to breath thing isn't working out for me.... and what is with the awful hangover thing anyways??? 1 year ago I could drink 2 bottles of wine, beer, jello shots, and tequila and not feel a thing the next day! And the worst part is I have put all this effort into getting healthier and this is what 25 has to offer me!! I think not!



So I think I might just stay 24 until I'm ready.



And ready or not here I come 23 days.

Oooh AHH, I've got a new BRA

Yes. It is true. I have a new bra..sports bra that is..

Lyoness Sportswear sent me a Rhythmbra.. No it doesn't boost you into dance moves or make music by its self. However, it has a handy dandy little pocket in the center for various things...

You can stick money in it...

a credit card..

an Ipod..(not the old one but the newer skinnier one..)

chapstick..

chafe stick...(yes, this works great..)

cellphone..

house key..

The neat little pocket provides you with a hands free workout ...and great support I may add! It is also stylish if you are a only sport bra runner..(not me, not yet..) You have to try this out if you are having a not so hands free workout..It is nice to get rid of those things I was always carrying in my hands...And it doesn't get too sweaty!!

Thanks for the hands free workout Lyoness!!!

And readers...what would you put in your handy dandy pocket?!?!

Watch Out Ladies...

Everyone needs inspiration...I know I do. Daily I struggle with weight. I want pizza and pasta, give me all the carbs I can take! But....I want to be healthy..So I don't get all the carbs I want...all the time....I run...and I do my best to take care of myself.

So...

Today I bring an inspiring story from my best friend, Zach. And I am so so proud of him!!

Let the inspiration begin......

What was your breaking point, the one where you decided to change?

I can’t really say that I had a “breaking point” per se. A couple people from work approached me to join a team for a promotion we do here at the paper (Waseca County News) called “The Big Waseca Weigh-In.”

I was actually kind of hesitant in joining just because everything time I’ve tried to lose weight in the past it’s failed and just been frustrating. But I joined thinking that I’d just play along more or less and maybe try to drop a few pounds.

Well, it started going well right away so I decided to just keep going. That was in January and I’m still losing!

What is the biggest difference? Clothes, people, etc?

Well clothes obviously. I guess if there’s a downside to losing a lot of weight it’s having to buy new pants every couple months but I guess that’s probably a good thing.

I don’t think people really have changed much. I get a lot of compliments and stuff, which, in a weird way, I’m a little uncomfortable with just because I’m not used to getting positive attention about my appearance. But, again, it’s a good thing.

Any inspiration?

Not really anything too out of the ordinary. Just want to look better and feel better about myself.

What keeps you motivated?

There are a couple things that keep me motivated. The first is probably just my progress to this point. I’m well over halfway to where I want to be so I can’t help but think, ‘I’ve gone this far, no sense turning back now.’

Another thing would probably be the fact that I’m NOT telling anyone how much I’ve lost to this point. I realize this might sound like a weird motivation tactic but, obviously I’m excited about my progress and WANT to tell people, but if I tell myself that I can’t tell anyone until I’m done it just sort of gives me a little extra oomph. I have told just one person just so I have someone to keep me in check if I fall off course.

What changes have you made?

Again, nothing too out of the ordinary. I take longer walks with my dog, Homer. I workout beside that once in a while but not too terribly often. I have changed my eating habits quite a bit, though. I RARELY snack and when I do it’s usually vegetables rather than chips or something like that. Other than that, I just try to eat smaller meals and make healthier choices. But, another thing that’s helped me keep going is not being a total food Nazi about it.

Once in a while, if I want pizza or buffalo wings, I eat pizza or buffalo wings. I just do it much more in moderation. I think if I had tried to completely cut-out things like I would have cracked long ago and put myself in a greasy food coma.

What is your favorite new habit, if you have one?

Eating breakfast. I was never much of a breakfast guy but now I try to eat a little bit every morning just to jumpstart the old metabolism a little bit.

Favorite new food?

Can’t say I have a favorite really. I have kind of become a creature of habit in terms of eating most days. I always eat two large eggs for breakfast and usually a turkey sandwich or turkey salad with for lunch. Supper is really the only meal I really deviate much on. I will say though, Subway has definitely benefited from all this.

Favorite new activity?

It’s not really a new activity but more of a modified one. When I walked Homer in the past, I used to usually just go a little ways and do it sometime in the afternoon. Now I usually try to take him for at least a couple miles and go at night. It helps me clear my head right before I go to bed and usually the temperature is much more comfortable.

Ladies....you better watch out!! Way to go ZACH!!!!

I guest posted!

Hey guys! I guest posted! Check out my weight loss story at Big Mama's One Change Weight Loss, her blog is amazing and hilarious!

Happy Tuesday!

Trashy Running Shirt...Yes Please!

My very first review!

After a two week break from running, flat out laziness, and eating pretty much anything and everything, yesterday I'm back on my running game!! And what better way then to try out my new recycled running shirt from Atayne.com!

What is Atayne? Atayne is an online outdoor and athletic clothing company with a point of view! They don't just make the outdoor clothing, performance apparel, or workout clothes; they make it from trash! (or some may say, recycled materials...) Not only is it recycled clothing, they make it with a voice, with hopes people will promote values not a make of a billion dollar brand! These items aren't only for running, but biking, hiking, paddling, and yoga too!

I chose the Womens Running Grind T, size Medium, color Apline Lake, and my point of view was Run Hard, Tread Lightly. Other point of views where things like, Recyled Runner, Bio-Fueled Runnner, or Run with Nature!

I love this top! In my sweat dripping, heavy breathing, running madness, it kept me cool and I was focused on my run rather than being HOT! It didn't show much sweat either! (Which is nice when running next to someone casually walking on a treadmill thinking you are crazy!)














Product Description from Atayne.com

If you lead with your values, this is the performance running top for you. Made from 100% recycled polyester (from post consumer plastic bottles) and treated with naturally derived Chitosan, the Grind T is high on performance and low on negative environmental and social impact. Plus our running point of view graphics allow you to promote your values, and not just the mark of a billion dollar brand.

So if you are looking for something new when it comes to performance wear, why not save our environment while doing so! Check out Atayne today!

Back on Track

Ugh..this cold windy weather has me wanting to crawl in bed and hope for warmer weather tomorrow. It is never just right, when it is so humid you can't breathe I want cooler weather and now its so cold and windy I want warmer weather...Catch 22.

It has been awhile since I blogged last, I was busy studying. I am doing an examination based RN accelerated program through Excelsior College in New York. (Even here in MN!) So basically I study study study, and then go to a Pearson's Testing Center (such as the same place I took my boards) and I test the class per say. So last Friday, I passed my first test and earned 3 credits! Only 6 more tests left!!

Anyways, I'm back on the blogging track! I have some upcoming reviews and Onemoremile.net is offering my readers 15% OFF their merchandise! All you have to do is visit their site, simply key in the code RUC1326 when prompted and viola! They will also be at the Mankato Marathon Expo so any locals can check them out there!

If anyone buys anything off the site let me know, I'm still browsing, but can't wait to find something!

Happy Tuesday! Don't blow away!

Dust if you must..

I hope you will think of dust in a new way...an email forward from a co-worker.

A layer of dust protects the wood beneath it.

A house becomes a home when you can write 'I love you' on the furniture .

I used to spend at least 8 hours every weekend making sure things were just perfect - 'in case someone came over'

Finally I realized one day that no-one came over; they were all out living life and having fun!

NOW, when people visit, I don't have to explain the 'condition' of my home. They are more interested in hearing about the things I've been doing while I was away living life and having fun. If you haven't figured this out yet, please heed this advice. Life is short. Enjoy it!

Dust if you must..but wouldn't it be better to paint a picture or write a letter, bake cookies or a cake and lick the spoon or plant a seed, ponder the difference between want and need?

Dust if you must, but there's not much time . . with chocolate to eat, rivers to swim and mountains to climb , music to hear and books to read, friends to cherish and life to lead.

Dust if you must..but the world's out there with the sun in your eyes, the wind in your hair, a flutter of snow, a shower of rain. This day will not come around, again.

Dust if you must, but bear in mind, old age will come and it's not kind. . . And when you go - and go you must - you, yourself will make more dust!

Nothing Planned

Life sure changes when you get older. Weekends used to be filled with going out, drinking a few too many, dancing the night away, and doing it all over again. Of course this still happens on occasion and mostly I welcome the event..But this summer has been so busy with weddings and parties and trips to the cabin (all which I love of course) that I am so very excited for nothing planned this weekend.

I suppose maybe this makes me "old " or boring...But regardless. I am so EXCITED!

As I titled my blog I thought,"well actually I do have plans for my nothing planned weekend!"
....hand hits forehead....

I plan on: doing whatever I want, cooking with my wonderful boyfriend, stopping at a PlayStation Move Party (partaking at my house), going for 2 fabulous long runs, hitting up a farmers market, rollerblading, and going to church. (all including the man I love..minus the long runs)..ooh and maybe nap a few times!

Yay for "nothing planned" and I hope everyone has a great weekend as well!

Upcoming Review

WHOOO HOO!! My first running review item: Rhythmbra from Lyoness Sportwear!

Awesome sales pitch from the company....For excellent support and a hands free workout!!

Make sure to check for this review in the future...boobs of all sizes!!

Dear Memory Foam

Dear Memory Foam,

First, I would like to start with an extremely sincere thank you. I slept like a baby. My body literally sank into you and of course I left quite an impression....

Second, my cats seemed to enjoy you as well. They too slept like little babies by my feet and did not trample all over my head, occasionally smothering me, or getting an inhalation of hair in my lungs.

You really do wonders. I didn't even wake up to run this morning because I felt such a connection with you, I'm pretty sure you didn't want me to leave either. However, today was my only exception..Please allow me to get out of bed at 5am tomorrow.

So finally, thank you again. I feel like a new women today.

With all my heart,

Sleeping with no cats on my head girl

Ain't No Rhythm or Reason

Whoop Whoop! I was newly introduced to something called "blog hop," and with that came new followers!

However there is still no rhythm or reason for my blog, and actually I am going to start reviewing some running gear! So if anyone out there has a sporting good company and wants me to try an item or two leave a comment with your email and we will chat!

So if this is your first visit to This Random Life, please tune in for more! As the title, its completely random and you may just find a little giggle for your day!

This is so exciting! Thanks for visiting my blog and please leave a comment and I'll follow back!

Apothic Red

Mmmm...

Last night I realized I hadn't had wine in a while so I zipped into the Cub's liquor store only to find this truly unique wine experience...(that is there selling point...and oh so true!)

I ate a homemade pizza with this delightful wine and it was the most wonderful flavorings ever. This is the most captivating blend of grapes, with the great dark fruit flavors of Syrah, the spice of Zinfandel, and the great smooth elegance of Merlot!

I love red wine but sometimes after a glass or two of cab or Merlot it gets a bit bitter...This however has a smoothy goodness aftertaste!

And better yet.....13.1% Alcohol!

Its on sale at Cub Liquor for $8.95 or so right now, go enjoy your Friday evening with a glass....(or bottle, who am I kidding!)

Dear Fat

Dear Fat,

I am writing to you because yesterday I conquered you (for now.) You may have beaten me in the past, filling my tummy with yummy fat goodness such as pizza,donuts,bagels, etc. Not anymore fat, not anymore. I have lost 31.2 lbs of you. And only about 18 more left.

The most disgusting thing about you fat is that were you really worth it? Were you worth the miles and miles I have been running to get rid of you? No no you weren't. However, I am feeling stronger and more healthy every day, so the jokes on you!

Andrea:1 Fat:1

To be continued 18 lbs from now...................

Truth for Mature Humans

Some giggles for Thursday!

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.
2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.
3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.
4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.
5. How the hell are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?
6. Was learning cursive really necessary?
7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on # 5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.
8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.
9. I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.
10. Bad decisions make good stories.
11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.
12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again.
13. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to.
14. "Do not machine wash or tumble dry" means I will never wash this - ever.
15. I hate when I just miss a call by the last ring (Hello? Hello? Damn it!), but when I immediately call back, it rings nine times and goes to voice mail. What did you do after I didn't answer? Drop the phone and run away?
16. I hate leaving my house confident and looking good and then not seeing anyone of importance the entire day. What a waste.
17. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.
18. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.
19. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay.
20. I wish Google Maps had an "Avoid Ghetto" routing option.
21. Sometimes, I'll watch a movie that I watched when I was younger and suddenly realize I had no idea what the heck was going on when I first saw it.
22. I would rather try to carry 10 over-loaded plastic bags in each hand than take 2 trips to bring my groceries in.
23. The only time I look forward to a red light is when I'm trying to finish a text.
24. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.
25. How many times is it appropriate to say "What?" before you just nod and smile because you still didn't hear or understand a word they said?
26. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!
27. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.
28. Is it just me or do high school kids get dumber & dumber every year?
29. There's no worse feeling than that millisecond you're sure you are going to die after leaning your chair back a little too far.
30. As a driver I hate pedestrians, and as a pedestrian I hate drivers, but no matter what the mode of transportation, I always hate bicyclists.
31. Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.
32. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I'd bet my ass everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time!

Fellow Runners..or Newbies!

I have never really meant to "review" an item in my blog. I've talked about books and movies before but that is about all the farther I got.
I'm posting today because for any fellow runners out there or newbies wanting to start, I have found an amazing water belt to stay hydrated on those longer runs..(or short ones in 100 degree humid weather, depending on where you live!)



The item: Nathan Speedbelt 2.



The SpeedBelt 2 Carries up to 20 ounces of carbo-gel or replacement fluids. Ideal for long road or trail trips with water availability. Features include: Molded holsters for quick Flask access Two 10 oz. Nutrition Flasks Larger stash pocket for small essentials Airmesh moisture-wicking backing Limited-stretch elasticized waistbelt with soft perimeter binding Sizes: SM 26-32", MED 32-36" & LG 36-42"


http://trivillage.amazonwebstore.com/

I have been hesitant for awhile on buying on something like this. I thought it would effect my breathing and of course adding extra weight isn't something I thought would make my run any easier. However this is awesome! I put it at about my hip level. It did migrate up slightly below my belly button but it didn't bother me one bit. It moved to my strides and I didn't feel any effect on my breathing whatsoever. I also love that there are 2 water bottles to help keep you balanced and no side aches! I filled them both up about the same and alternated which bottle I drank from so I didn't get out balanced. I got ripped off at Scheels for $40 and at Trivillage.com they are only $27, although it was nice to try it on.

And it is pink, can't go wrong there! It matches great with my Bondi Band that I received from my roommate.(It's black and with pink lettering says, Will Run for Wine!) I have yet to try this due to the hot hot hot weather, however I think it will be great for fall!

Keep running if you are and start running if you aren't!

Happy Monday!

Blog Book

Blog Book, yes a blog book..I'm going to write one. It may be confusing to newcomers, but you will just need to follow the chapters..Obviously starting with the first..oh and there will be a preface...

Just some instructions..

TTFN

Preface

Not everyone feels like they have been cursed growing up in a small town. Probably only me. Most people rejoice in the low crime levels, knowing your neighbors, or the small lines at the grocery store. I don't. At least my "small town" anyways. It was more a curse, nothing to rejoice in my life.

This isn't a sob story. It's not a hate letter to my "small town." It's about growing up and finding yourself. About why my "small town" made me into the person I am today, regardless of how much I hated it back then.

Cute

Today I love my job.

I had a patient whom has been married to his wife for 58 years. (I know, holy cow!)

I asked him what the key to success was, and how they have lasted for so long..

He pointed to his ear (which is home to a hearing aide) and I said," Oh listening?"

He says, "No, you can shut this thing off when you want to!"

Minneskeeta

In case my post title was confusing for some, its a combination of Minnesota and Mosquito.

After being attacked, yes attacked this weekend by these crazy stupid little bugs from hell, I thought I would really dig into some research to avoid these creatures in the future. My legs look as if I have a case of the chicken pox, or as though someone used them as bee bee gun practice. I can feel a big welt behind my ear and I have unreachable bites on my back. My ankles are tattooed with red dots and when my scrub pants brush against them and slightly "itch" I must find the inner strength not to scratch scratch scratch.

So crazy bugs from hell, I'm googling the shit out of you...

1. Mosquitoes have been around for 30 million years. (This must be how they have "honed" there attack skills.)
2. Apparently they have "sensors" designed to attack their prey. (prey=me this weekend)
-chemical sensors- don't breath and watch out if you are a muscle builder...carbon dioxide and lactic acid can be detected 100 feet away! side note- when you exercise (power exercises) you produce more lactic acid, and everyone releases carbon dioxide, so I guess stop breathing?
-visual sensors-Blend in with your surroundings. If you wear bright and summery colors think again, contrasting from the background will make these crazy bugs pick you out more easily. I guess I'll be heading to cabelas for some camo....
-heat sensors- You guessed it, they can detect heat too...So I guess don't be hot when you go out into the 90 degree humid weather?!? I mean really?
3. Mosquito is Spanish for "little fly." (no kidding?)
4. Only female mosquitoes bite. She lands on your skin, sticks her proboscis into you (the proboscis is the sharp and thin needle like thing)then her saliva contains proteins that prevent s your blood from clotting. ( is this for real? they were made to suck our blood?!?!)
5. Many diseases can be spread by mosquitoes. Such as Malaria, Yellow Fever, Meningitis, and Dengue Fever. (Super, these diseases can all be fatal.)

_______________________________________________

Most websites that I found through google, stated the best way to avoid mosquitoes is to;
1. Wear clothing that covers your body. (die in the heat, but hey at least you won't get bit up!)
2. Use bug spray that contains DEET (but don't get it on your skin, because you could die!)
3.Eliminate sources of standing water....(so that creek by your house, figure out a way to eliminate it.)

So since all of that information really educated me on how to live a normal summer life and not get attacked by these bugs from hell...
I laughed.
All I can picture is a large campfire, no longer at the edge of a lake, with a cloud of DEET bug spray, and everyone dressed in black clothing from head to toe except for the eye holes.

Super.

Maya Angelou & Oprah

I received an email today, one of those forwards that sometimes many of us delete.

However, the title of this was, "Don't break the elastic please." Kinda catchy I thought..And found out, definitely worth the read.

Apparently, Oprah interviewed Maya Angelou on her 70th Birthday, which was in 2000. In this interview, Maya, nightclub singer to recording artist, poet, activist, and writer, explained to Oprah things she has learned over the years. Such as this;

-I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.

-I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.

-. I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.

-I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life.

-I've learned that life sometimes gives you second chance.

-I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands.You need to be able to throw something back.

-I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.

-I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.

-I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

-I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.

-I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

She also shared this poem, the reason the title for the email.

Don't Break the Elastic

When I was in my younger days,
I weighed a few pounds less,
I needn't hold my tummy in
to wear a belted dress.
But now that I am older,
I've set my body free;
There's the comfort of elastic
Where once my waist would be.
Inventor of those high-heeled shoes
My feet have not forgiven;
I have to wear a nine now,
But used to wear a seven.
And how about those pantyhose-
They're sized by weight, you see,
So how come when I put them on The crotch is at my knee?
I need to wear these glasses
As the print's been getting smaller;
And it wasn't very long ago I know that I was taller.
Though my hair has turned to grey and my skin no longer fits,
On the inside, I'm the same old me,
It's the outside's changed a bit.

________________________________________________________

If only we can all find the most positive explanations for our lives like Maya. Why each and every thing has happened and which road it will take us on next.

I sometimes want to know the future. Where and what will be in the next few years? Or how many years I have left?

I suppose if I knew these what would I have to look forward too? I would mourn at the loss of leaving my friends and family when I die, or not be surprised when I get married or find out that I am pregnant for the first time. Things like that, that I would suspect to be some of the greatest moments of my life.

Refreshing thoughts for a Monday..

Word of the Day

Yes it is true, I am a email subscriber to Dictionary.com.

If you know me, you would never assume I have an extensive vocabulary.

And you were right, I do not.

However, I enjoy the vocabulary world. It amazes me. Why and when and what were the word creators thinking...(word creators? I would like to be one please!)

So..everyday I get a word of the day email from Dictionary.com. Mostly, I have never heard some of these ridiculous words, and they will not be appearing in my vocabulary anytime soon.

Here are some of the most recent:

brannigan \BRAN-i-guhn\, noun. A carouse. A squabble; a brawl.

vestigial \ ve-STU-ee-uhl\, adjective. Relating to a body part that has become small and lost its use. Pertaining to, or nature of anything that is no longer present or in existence.

snuff \SNUHF\,verb. To extinguish or suppress. To cut off or remove of.

bijou \BEE-zhoo\, adjective. Something small, delicate, and exquisitely wrought.

squelch \SKWELCH\, verb. To put down, suppress, or silence, as with a crushing retort or argument. To strike or press with crushing force; crush down. To make a splashing sound. To tread heavily in water, mud, wet shoes, etc with such a sound.


I know, I know. Most seem unusable. I would agree. However, you could use them as this:

I hate going downtown because I swear there are always brannigans.

Did Bob just show us his penis? Did you see it? It used to be so big and now it is so vestigial.

These thighs are so not bijou.

If you talk to me one more time, I will squelch the shit out of you!

Disgusted

Dear Dress Shopping Adventure # 1,898:

F- you.

-Me

Dress Shopping Adventure # 1,898

Dear Dress Shopping Adventure # 1,898:

This may sound as if I am begging....Okay, let's be for real, I'm on my knees.

In about an hour I am off to the mall. I would really really appreciate if you made this easy for me. Really, is it too much to ask?

Something flattering.

Something fitting.

Something classy.

Something cheap.

Also, a 3 store limit would be great. I don't have all night to spend looking in the mirror feeling disgusted, over stimulating myself with each and every flaw the fluorescent lights highlight in the 3 way mirror. ..Nightmare.

I hope we are understood. You must know I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks,
Me

Vodka Lemonades, Stripper Poles, An Almost Newlywed and Mongolian Grill

The title describes itself. Welcome to the world of Bachelorette Party Land. In combination vodka lemonades, stripper poles, and an almost newlywed are more than likely never an intelligent adventure. Fun, yes. Smartest thing I have ever done, absolutely not.

A great Friday night, however, a not so great Saturday in "recovery." I mean how old am I? Almost 25 years old and still have not learned the concept of hangover prevention. Is drinking water all day prior to the event or liquor before beer so complicated? I have a college education in the medical field for heavens sake. Regardless, the events to follow happened and happened to be an awesome time.

1. Getting Ready: Instructions for the evening were to wear bright colors. I chose highlight yellow. Go big or go home right?! I decided to try something a little different with my hair and rocked out the big front poof..I may have not actually "rocked this out" but a few beverages helped.

2.Party : The evening started with the typical bachelorette party guidelines. Dirty presents, fun games, great food, and drinking of course. Also decorating the bride in penis attire was in order as well.

3. Bars: I have personally never known a bach party (that is short for bachelorette and will be used for the remaining of the post), to not venture to some bar of sorts. The bar scene helps to achieve the goals of the evening; a) get Bride drunk b) sell condoms, beads, etc c) be completely obnoxious d) a night to remember (through pictures). You can take shot after shot, and vodka lemonade after vodka lemonade...I can barely type this out without a queasy stomach.

4. Stripper Poll: I do not believe any detail is in order. Just imagine ten annihilated girls and one stripper poll on a stage.

5. Smart Shoes: I am dumb. I lack height so of course adding heels seems to be an intelligent idea. I do not need to look like a midget. At 1:59 last night I could barely walk. I looked like an old grandma as we tried to get a cab. One word: Idiot.

6. Cab: This is not always an easy task. At 2am downtown is a feeding frenzy for cab companies. However, they are not so punctual. In my feet throbbing, grandma looking, hobble to hail a cab I wanted to cry. Is this a game for them? Do they just wait in the darkness laughing at all of us intoxicated barely walking individuals. Hmm...I guess I probably would..

7. Food: Why is food so amazing when you are drunk? All I wanted was Pizza Pizza Pizza! When we did get home we ordered pizza, I passed out before it got here..Fail.

8. Passing Out: My boyfriend was already sleeping in bed and of course my annoying drunkeness instinct was to wake him up..Poor guy..I was rolling on top of him, laughing at nothing, telling him my feet were in awful pain and trying to sell the remainder of beads I hadn't used my amazing advertising skills on.

9. Waking up for the 1st time: What shit in my mouth? Did I pee the bed? Water, where is the water?

10. Waking up for the 2nd time: Headache, rolling stomach. Death. Big front poof, alot more big...

11. Saturday.Ugh Saturday. Hangover Recovery. Sleep. Eat. Repeat. Pedicure. Check. And thank you Mongolian Grill.

Facelift

No no no, I did not at 24 get a facelift..My blog however, did.

This was NOT an easy task. I used google for about an hour trying to figure this out and I must say I'm quite impressed with myself...:)

I believe it is a true creation of my personality.

That is all for now, Happy Friday and have a safe and happy 4th of July weekend!

Mastering the Art of Doing Something....

In recovery from hitting up the premiere of Eclipse at 12:10am early Wednesday morning, last night I layed low and picked up a movie from those handy dandy outside movie dispenser things.



Side Note: Eclipse was amazing, however, I am way too old to stay up till 3am and then get up for work....


Back to the laying low part...I had been contemplating picking up Julie & Julia for a long time now, however I didn't think my boyfriend would enjoy it, so last night boyfriendless, I finally rented it. (However, I do think he would have enjoyed it)


So here is a little synopsis of the movie to get things started.



Julie Powell is a wife and public servant. Following 911 she works with families of loved ones to get their insurance claims etc., however this isn't her calling. She had written half a novel without completion and no one wanted to publish it. She stumbles along a cookbook she stole from her mother, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, by Julia Childs. She decides to blog her way through Julia's cookbook, 365 days and 524 recipes. In this year she fights with her husband, has meltdown after meltdown, and calls herself a lobster killer...She is contacted by The New York Times, and the write up gains her instant stardom....





As a matter of fact, they make her story into a movie...Julie & Julia.







This whole movie is inspiring and uplifting, Julie, through Julia, has found whom she wanted to be... No, I do not think This Random Life will be hitting theaters anytime soon, or actually anytime ever. I am wondering though, if anyone I do not know reads my blog. ..So if you are out there, let me know!




During the movie I had pondered as to how even a book would come from my blog posts. A collection of short stories with no rhythm or reason? A book of a year of my life? (I do not think most would find that interesting..)




I realized though, thinking about the last 365 days of my life, from today to this day last year...This has been my best year so far and the time has gone by so fast. ..




I met some of my best friends in Mayish and then again in Januaryish....a few unhealthy relationships ended, gratefully. I started a new job that challenges me everyday, and I love, I am trying to finish my RN and about 7 months ago I met an amazing person whom I never want to be without and has changed my life.


I'm not going to cook my way through 524 recipes in 365 days, I'm not going to be in the New York Times, and my blog isn't going to be made into a movie....but like Julie the last year has made me into the person I wanted to be.



But someday, I'm going to Master the Art of Doing Something, whatever that may be.

Get off the Road...

For justification purposes, I have never been in a "serious" accident. (yes, knock on wood.)However I have backed into my parents shed. (Turned the wheel to soon...I wasn't even 16 yet okay!)

Today I write because frankly I'm sick and tired of bad drivers. In particular, drivers whom;
A) Do not merge until the last minute on a road where this is no new surprise.
B) Do not get out into the intersection on a yielding green light.

These two annoying, ridiculous and just flat out stupidious reasons are completely unnecessary. I drive the same route to work almost every day and every day there is some idiot whom speeds up beside me to swerve in front of me before his lane ends, and then normally he is the same idiot that now is ahead of me waiting at the green light, not moving.

I mean inch out or something. At least give it some effort, maybe it will at least ease my frustrations a bit. Maybe I would think you, dumb stupid driving idiot, at least attempted to turn on this green light.

Instead, you wait. You sit there. Are you thinking? Did you drop something? Was there an important phone call? Did you just have a heart attack?

No.

You are a pathetic loser who wasted my time, again. Not only did you put me back 1 minute when you got ahead of me up the hill, but now you have put me back 5 minutes waiting at a green light!?!?

Do you know how important the 6 minutes that you made me sit in my cute little blue car pulling my hair out and yelling swear words left and right is?

Very....I can punch in at 7:53. If I punch in at 7:53 I can leave at 4:23. This is 7 minutes before my normal time and just enough time to get home and start my evening.

But, because you apparently have all the time in the world I end up punching in at 7:59, and unable to punch out until 4:29...

If you need to retake your driving test, by all means do so. I'm sick of getting behind you every morning. Next time, you will be taking the grass on the way up the hill. It's on.

My Sincerest Thank You

Dear Banana Boat-

I am writing to thank you for your services. You see, yesterday, (father's day) I spent basking in the sun afloat an air mattress in the pool. Of course I was unable to wear my watch and I did not have my glasses on to view the clock hanging on my parent's house and mistakenly did not put on sunscreen.

Last night and of course today and I'm sure tomorrow and at least the next, I look like and will still look like, a cherry tomato. My skin still has remnants of an awful burnt skin aroma and when my clothes rub against my body, I clench my teeth and hold back a scream of profanity.

I won't go into much detail about the shower this morning. Anyone with a sunburn once in there life knows how awful spraying warm water feels on your skin. I couldn't quite tell if I was crying or if that was just the luke warm water heating up as it ran across my face.

However, Banana Boat Aloe After Sun Lotion, I could not grin and bear it without you. I put layers upon layers of you on my skin after my painful shower to, for at least one second, feel relief of this burning sensation.

So thank you again Banana Boat Aloe After Sun Lotion, from my cherry tomato red body and face.

Love,

Me

PS. If you could make me not peel too that would be great!

Dear Wine

Dear Wine:

Just writing to thank you for making me relax last night. I had a lot of fun. However, I'm not too happy about the headache, extreme thirst, and the awful taste in my mouth this morning. Next time I drink a bottle of you on my own, how about we come to an agreement to avoid the aftermath.

Just a little note. So as long as we are understood, maybe I'll drink another of you tonight!

Thanks,
Me

A Simple Email

As in my earlier blog postings, life has been "challenging" lately. Another friend was killed in an ATV accident last Saturday and I was reminded at his wake yesterday how many lives he touched. Many waited 4 + hours to say their good-byes and condolences to the family. He was an amazing 26 year old and will be greatly missed.

I recieved an email a few minutes ago which initiated this posting. The title, Thanks for being you! (thanks Mom and Sandy)

I never thought I would be so sensitive to an email, especially reading it at my desk at work. In all the busy days, the sweating the small stuff, the casual hi's and bye's, the taking time for granted, and then the loss of time you wish you could take back, the importance of the people in your life and the gratefullness you are to have them. So to everyone special to me in my life, Thanks for being you!

The email said:

"What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments,
but what is woven into the lives of others."

God doesn't give you the people you want; He gives you the people you NEED... to help you, to hurt you, to leave you, to love you and to make you into the person you were meant to be. I LOVE YOU!!!!!

One Flaw In Women
Women have strengths that amaze men.....
They bear hardships and they carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in..
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member, yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

______________________

(sigh) Today will be a little bit better.

Karma

I have decided in my past life I must have been a horrible person. I didn't however believe or still really don't believe in past lives but I cannot find any other explanation.


Karma, according to google of course, is the concept of action or deed, understood as that which causes the whole cycle of cause and effect. Also karma is noted as a religious concept in contradistinction to 'faith' espoused which view all human dramas as the will of God as opposed to present - and past - life actions. ( ya I only understood the last part of that too.)


I have no present life actions in which would justify karma's consequences. I may have fibbed a few times, drank before the age of 21, smoked before the age of 18, or had sex before marriage. But it is not like I killed anyone or robbed a bank. Okay, so I stole a tattoo from a package from Walmart once, but my Mom made me return it and apologize. I did karma's job on that one, trust me its pretty embarrassing having to apologize for stealing a fake tattoo.


I'm not saying that my life is bad, because it is not. I am very blessed to have my family and friends, an amazing boyfriend, a job, a roof over my head, and food on the table. But I have had alot of unfortunate events in my life and I guess I'm just trying to map out God's reasoning for this.


Is it to make me a stronger person? I mean I've dealt with alot and think I've "handled" it but is it so wrong to breakdown every once in a while? Throw things, cry out of frustration, want to pull your hair out or just flat out drink?

I just want answers. When is karma's consequences complete? Something extraordinary has to happen soon right?

I'm waiting.

Life is Fragile

For me yesterday could have been worse. But for some it was probably one of the worst days of their lives.

I received an email yesterday morning a classmate and a childhood friend was killed in a car accident on Monday. Not only is that horrible, she was also pregnant. I am not sure of any of the details and I don't want to be incorrect in writing them. However, I had grown up with this person and she was so kind and always smiling. Her facebook profile picture shows exactly whom she was and she also had a quote on there that portrays exactly the person I knew her as. "I will enjoy more and endure less....."

I did find a link to the crash.
http://kstp.com/news/stories/S1576410.shtml?cat=1

_______________________________________________


Yesterday evening , my dad was taken by ambulance to ISJ in Mankato. My brother and his girlfriend were at home with him when he became shaky, pale, started mumbling, and throwing up. My brother called 911 at that time as well as my mom rushed home from work. He was stable and a cardiac workup ( to check to see if he was having a heart attack) was done and came back normal. They figured he maybe had some heat exhaustion. He is doing great and is at home.

For me yesterday I was so grateful and relieved that my dad was okay. For Kari's family as I said, it will most likely have been the worst day of their lives.

We get mad, we fight, we spend too much time on things that in the end do not matter.
I don't want to regret time lost, as well as having my loved ones regret time spent on those silly and mostly stupid in the end things.

Life is fragile and I thank God all that I have in my life. I am truly blessed.

I was taught a lesson and I too will try to enjoy more and endure less.

Packing: Unveiling of Obession

Yes I am moving again. I swore the last time I moved it was the last until I was married. So yet again, maybe, I hope, this will be my second to last stop.

It is a good situation, moving in with a friend, and it helps us both out. I can keep my cats, and as far as I can tell she won't be banging on my door at 6:30 in the morning because she most likely didn't take her meds or something. (Yes, that was a previous experience at the place I'm moving out of! ) ps..I would most likely laugh at you Emma if you did that!!

I hate packing. It is now when I really wish I had Mary Poppins powers and could snap my fingers and my ridiculously large amount of I don't know where I got half of these things would be packed and unpacked in no time.

So in my moving misery, sorting through random items, cleaning out my closets, I discovered something. I always knew I had a love for purses and shoes. When you aren't skinny you can't go wrong with these 2 things, they don't stretch fabric out across your thighs or make you look like you have a floating device around your stomach. But one of my closets literally was being devoured by these 2 things. The worst part: I haven't used any of them in months.

I think it is time to let go. The pretty red heels that I danced the night away with and the cute over the shoulder purse that traveled to Australia with me or the stoplight yellow heels that accompanied me on my 21st birthday. I just may have to say good-bye. My downtown days are less frequent and I don't for see any trips to Australia in the near future.

My tennis shoes and flip flops most describe my new grown up life..or my attempts at one anyways.

And as a matter of fact, I'm enjoying it.

It's hard to say no to bottle #3

No people, I'm not talking about lubricant....I'm talking about wine. House cab or Malbec per say. Don't worry though, I wasn't alone in my wine endeavor the other night. I didn't drink almost 3 bottles by myself.

You would think the evening would have started with dinner and such.....but it started with dress shopping. Now if any of you know me and have dress shopped with me you can sympathize with Emily. It has gotten better after somewhat of a weight loss but still isn't a glamorous event. There is shoe tossing, pants dropping, bra unhooking craziness. Will these boobs fit into this dress or not, do I look like I need a wide load sign on my ass?!?! Store after store you search for the perfect fitting, slimming, make you look like a "hot mess" dress. Due to the length of time of this endeavour, we stroll into target, buy off the rack and hope for the best.

The original mission of the evening wasn't dress shopping. That was just an unfortunate errand I had to run..but did find a dress! Anyways, back to the original mission...We were celebrating Emily's last night in town and newly earned Master's Degree! Now if you know Emily and I together, you'd know our evening somewhat..okay mostly..okay always..consist of wine.

Recently we discovered a little secret called, The Wine Cafe, where we actually wrote this blog, with a glass of Malbec in hand and the remainder of the bottle on the cute little suitcase table. Oh and as well as a fabulous cheese tray with ciabatta bread, grapes and cucumbers.

In the background open mic night is getting started and I start thinking that if I hone my guitar skills this summer maybe I could strum a few notes here this fall...

This happy occasion of course had to come to an end, my lovely friend Emily has to make the trek back to North Dakota, where 6 years ago we met. Bittersweet I guess, she has the whole world infront of her now, and I am quite curious as to where she will end up...and can't wait to visit!

**shout out to Em for helping me write this, as well as transcribing, slightly intoxicated, on our little couch at the Wine Cafe. ***

Your Warning...

PMS:

I am writing to inform you I will no longer be putting up with you. I want my life back. I have written about you before in my attempts to "manage" your symptoms of hell. Quit making me feel like a complete bitch. Vulgar but true.

I hate gaining 10 lbs in 1 week, my stomach acting as a bottomless pit. I could devour anything and everything, never feeling satisfied and always wanting more..(stupid Chinese food!) I hate feeling like a bloated whale, never finding something to wear because I'm so swollen I may pop! Frankly, I hate you PMS. You ruin 1 week of my life every month. I just want to be happy and bubbly all the time, not only 3 weeks every month.

So can you stop already?

You have been tormenting me for 12 years. Is that not enough? 144 weeks thus far. You can not take anymore from me. I mean honestly, my life is great right now, get out of it so I don't screw it up.

Please?

If you were something I could get down on my knees and beg, I would. It and I have become that pathetic. I am putting an end to this and severing our relationship. I currently am working on a plan to put an end to you. You have taken your last week from me PMS, I am warning you to stay away.

Don't even think about coming back.

-Me

Duck Tape

I have no filter. I would describe a filter as the connection from mouth to brain. Apparently mine is broken and has been for most of my life. Now on a positive note, I'm honest. Maybe brutally honest, and for the most part you can count on the fact I'm going to say what I think.

Apparently people don't like this. I answer questions when not directly spoken to, I interrupt, and I say how I feel.

Now I'm aware of my lack of this thing I call a filter. I have attempted many many times to reconnect the "connection" between mouth and brain, and I have been completely unsuccessful.

This week has been awful, and my lack of a filter apparently has had its effect. Or that is my conclusion anyways. Because I do my job, and I'm a good nurse. I'm a good friend. I'm strong. And I'm thoughtful. My non filter must be taking its toll.

So, sadly I feel this must result in the exact opposite. No talking out of turn, no opinions (mine do not matter anyways), and no saying how I feel.

I must then, purchase duck tape.

Lesson Learned

As I had mentioned in one of my posts, one of my first ones actually, I struggle with weight. Now at first I thought it had alot to do with genetics, until last night when I did something horrible.

Not only did I not go to my weight watchers meeting, but I ordered chinese food. Only my favorites of course, vegetable fried rice, vegetable lo-mein, and general tso's chicken. (oh ya that is all...)

As I waited patiently for my feast to arrive, feeling somewhat guilty for ordering Chinese food altogether, the door bell finally rang.

I spread out all my goodies on my table and filled my plate so you couldn't even tell there was a plate. I literally shoveled the food into my mouth, I'm not quite sure if I even took a breath at this time. (an awful and very unattractive picture I'm sure.) About only 1/4 into my plate I was ready to puke. As I looked at all the food that took up almost all of my table, it looked as if I didn't even take anything from the cute little take out boxes.

Now, not only was I feeling like a huge bloated whale, it was then I spotted the fortune cookies. They sent 6 fortune cookies. They thought 6 people were going to indulge in this yummy Chinese food. It was at this moment I did not know whether to laugh or cry. I ordered enough Chinese food for 6 people. Wow. ( there isn't really much else to say about that.)

Another big slap on the face was that I wasn't even "satisfied." (in weight watchers talk that means, full not stuffed) I was sick, I felt as if I was carrying around a bowling ball of Chinese food in my stomach.

This bad idea, or lessen learned I guess, resulted in my never ordering Chinese food again.

*At least my fortune cookie (the one I picked out of 6), said, " A pleasant surprise is in store for you soon in the coming week."

.....hmmmm.......

Jack & Jill

My creativeness has been lacking lately, I apologize. I may have been caught up in Cafe World on facebook or missing my boyfriend whom will be residing in Des Moines, Ia for the summer. And as I try to be humorous in my posts, today I have a most serious agenda.

Last Friday night, a few lovely ladies and I, a cat, a dog, and 2 cute little girls got together. One of these lovely ladies, we will call her *Jill in this story, recently has gotten divorced. You could call it a celebration maybe, or a night of women empowerment per say, but most importantly this lovely lady Jill, needed to tell her side of the story.

Jill is a beautiful young woman might I add, with a good education, and a good head on her shoulders. Well Jill met Jack. And if we are all lucky enough, we know the feeling to fall in love. When the path of life seems so clear and you know it is just "right" with that person. In my understanding Jill felt that way of Jack, and Jack proposed.

Now of course I'm writing of Jack and Jill, so I wasn't there first hand. This "story" is my recollection of the explanation Jill provided on Friday evening. (and might I add we had around 8 bottles of wine, so things were flowing freely and honestly)

So back to Jack and Jill's story. If you haven't caught on yet, this isn't about going up the hill to fetch a pail of water. If anything its about going to fetch a pail of water to hit Jack over the head with. (kidding, that was not a threat.....only a promise.. I mean I'm just kidding. ) Okay okay, so proposal, marriage, and honeymoon. All great things according to Jill. Possibly the fairytale ending she had dreamed about as a little girl. Then things went bad.

Bad, I'm not very sure is a strong enough adjective for how things went. Jack well, I could add a couple of letters on to the end of Jack and that would be speaking highly of this character. Now, in Jill's defense I don't believe I heard her call Jack any bad names. She only described the horrible way Jack treated her, sleeping downstairs for almost all of their marriage, sharing almost no meals together, not even looking her in the eye... And even all the attempts to get marriage counseling, to go to church, to work things out Jack still did nothing. One word: coward.

Jill was still very persistent on keeping her vows and making things work. But how do you make someone change when now, ultimately you knew they didn't want them to?

2 years later, after Jill had tried virtually everything, there was an ultimatum; Leave or do marriage counseling. Jack left the following week.

For Jill, I believe this was very bittersweet. A new beginning to be treated like she deserves, but a painful memory of how one human can be so awful to the other. A difficult lesson to learn, but a surprising result at how strong you can be in tough times. You go Jill!

So like I said, women empowerment or a celebration, but maybe reinforcement that Jill did all she could do and all of us women would of kicked Jack down the hill a long time ago!

* names changed to protect the innocent.....and the guilty.

Cafe World

2 days ago, embarrassingly, I was talked into starting Cafe World on facebook.

(I know, I'm a sucker for peer pressure.)


My lovely co-workers were the instigators in this new obsession I have acquired. Ironically, I have been teasing them about the game for weeks.


I now must confess, this may be comparable to my "obsession" for Bella and Edward.

(Don't worry Bella and Edward, I'm more obsessed with you then I will ever be with Cafe World, I'm just saying its comparable.)


Cafe World is alot more work than one would think. I mean you have to make sure that you have enough stoves to cook on, enough counters to serve, enough tables and chairs for your food to be consumed, and then of course making sure that your food doesn't spoil!


You can add neighbors and go visit their kitchens. (which get you coins because you get to try their food) You can create dishes that would more than likely be quite difficult to make in the real world. Currently I have 2 White Radish Cakes on my stove, they take 1 whole day to cook! ah jeepers, the stress of Cafe World.


I am also working on a wedding cake for someone, apparently it gets me cafe cash, so if you can help me bake it please do. ( yes, you can help eachother with these products. )

Oh this seems very silly, but just try it and you too may become addicted!

Call me MP

I should almost consider myself Mary Poppins. No I do not have a spoonful of sugar (although that sounds kinda good), I cannot snap my fingers and my house doesn't pick itself up nor can I slide down a banister without falling. I can however almost pull a lamp out of my purse/suitcase/large bag/bottomless pit.

Recently I switched purses, if you are like me, this is something of a task. I mean really, where did I get all of this stuff?!?! I'm like the crazy hoarder lady, my life story can be told through the contents of my black hole.

I have receipts from like a year ago, lip glosses, movie tickets, old gift certificates, loose change, mail, old gum, mints, batteries, tampons, sticky notes, grocery lists, pens, contacts, glasses and I did find a random key. (not quite sure what it opens?!?!) Of course there at times are much larger items. Sometimes bottles of water, pop, magazines, my camera, lotion- you need a place to put something while we are out and about, I'll find room.

I neatly retrieved each item, recalling the memory and placing it on my kitchen table. It was at this time that I flashed back to Mary Poppins pulling out the large lamp that lit up the corner of the room.

Am I really comparing an aspect of my life to one of a disney fictional character?

Yep sure am.

You should probably just start calling me MP.

Coffee

I promised once, in a previous posting, to invent an IV drip of coffee...I write to you today to inform you that the hot coffee would burn your veins and most likely lead to your death, resulting in the non invention of this, what I thought would be, a most wonderful device.

Why don't you just cool it you may ask? And I would present you with this...Would you warm your delicious mouth watering Mich light? Absolutely not.

Now awesomely enough in our American culture we have many options to retrieve this wonderful brewed drink prepared from the little roasted seeds of the coffee plant. And oh how there are so many ways to have this tasty energy filled beverage. Many in which I can not pronounce or slightly mumble out..Normally the "barista" (coffee-house server) understands what I mean... Like I'm sure I'm not the only one that cannot pronouce, *cafe breve.

There are lattes, flat whites, chilled or blended (which include milk and some sort of sugar), americanos, cappuccinos, espressos, espresso macchiato, espresso con pana, and mochas.

Overwhelmed? Welcome to the world of fancy coffee drinks.

Now, I'm a hot black coffee drinker. But the genius coffee connoisseurs of the world went ahead and started flavouring straight up black coffee. I know, I know... I am not lying and this topic is nothing I would fib about.

I take coffee and my drinking it very seriously. Where I work, there is this little brilliant coffee stand nicely placed in the corner just before the stairs to the GI clinic, called Jazzmans. It is there every morning, well M-F anyways, that I begin my day. And yes, they know me. I get a medium coffee, and I have my cute little Jazzmans card punched ( to get a free one of course!), and then deliberate with my choices. Is it a cinnamon delight sort of day ? This day would normally consist of a pretty much full clinic and possible stressors to arise. Or is it a creme brulee kinda day? This day would be pretty laid back, but could possibly consist of a large amount of phone calls and/or messages. Now, when I haven't gotten much sleep, or I'm a bit on edge, I go straight for the gold. Iced carmel latte, skim milk and sugar free syrup.

If you don't normally drink coffee but are always in a crappy mood and tired, just go on and try it. The world will be a better place with you "on" coffee. The glorious caffeine gods will open the gates to your new world of happiness and bliss. Take this recommendation from a coffee professional.


With that the only thing left to say then is, You are Welcome.





*Cafe Breve-espresso,milk foam, steamed half and half ( go ahead and add a flavor shot if you want)

Shout out to Kathy for helping me pick a topic!