Truly, a terrific Tuesday!

I'm pretty excited for tonight.

I have a Pampered Chef party to go to!
You know, normally there's like a run of these parties and you end up going to 4 of them at once and you're like "ugh, enough already".

But I haven't been to one in about 4 years now.
So clearly, I'm in need of some good cooking ware.

I just browsed their website and it doesn't seem like there's many new things, but I have been so remiss on updating my cookware/bakeware anyway - I'm sure there's going to be plenty of things that I'll be excited about. I need cookie sheets, maybe a new pizza stone…maybe a new garlic press? The possibilities are endless.

And, getting to spend some time with my girlfriends is always a good thing too.

Today is actually a pretty fun day now that I stop and think about it.
I've got a 1:00 appointment.
Yoga at 4:00.
Pampered Chef at 7:00.
And….the sun is shining.

Not a bad day overall.
I'll take it!

Introspective...

Funny how sometimes life throws you a curveball.
When you least expect it, something changes your entire perspective on a situation.

Sometimes, you find out that someone isn't the person you thought they were…?
Or maybe - they are, which can be disappointing in of itself.

Often it's best not to force an issue. Once you've opened the door - there's no turning back.
Some times things are better left unsaid.

The most difficult thing about having friends is accepting who they are…especially when they aren't necessarily being a friend. Taking a step back and re-evaluating the relationship might help, but sometimes it just boils down to whether life would be as much fun if they weren't a part of it any longer. Often the answer is to just accept the shortcomings and move onwards. Of course assuming that there isn't an malice involved. That can often be a muddy line to see clearly though.

How to know you're making the right decisions in life? You never do.
You just go with your gut - and hope for the best.
Roll with the punches.
And never let them see you sweat.

Vacation state of mind.....

So, I did go on vacation in May.
But that's sort of a busy vacation -- not so much a relaxing one.
I'm feeling the need for a relaxing vacation....but don't think I'm going to be able to take one any time soon.

Hence - the vacation survey for Saturday.

1. What is your favorite vacation spot? Key West was awesome. Relaxing...and a party place. A little artsy, very laid back. I'd love to go back.
2. Would you rather drive or fly? Depends on where I'm going and for how long?
3. Have you ever been on a cruise? Would you want to go on one? Yes. It was a lot of fun, but I felt sort of rushed...and it was a little boring at times. It was just okay.
4. What has been your best/worst vacation? Hmmm. I think the time I went to Orlando with a former friend was the worst. The best? Well, they were all really great and so different, it's hard to compare.
5. How long do you think is long enough for a vacation? Depends on where. Camping? Maybe a weekend. The French Riveira....maybe 10 days. Coming home is always the best feeling.
6. Do you spend alot of money while on vacation? Do you buy alot of souvernires? What's the coolest one you've gotten? I'm not a souveneir kind of person. I used to collect kitchen magnets of every place I'd been though.
7. If money were no object, where would you go on vacation? Too many places to choose! Costa Rica, I'd go back to Jamaica...Cabo San Lucas....Vale....anyplace I haven't been to before!

Family is one of nature's masterpieces...

Today is my father's birthday.
Yesterday was my Grandmother's birthday. His mother, actually.
I have yet to call either of them, and will have to do it tonight.

Birthdays in my family aren't a whole lot of fun, truthfully. Mostly because my family isn't around to share them with.I would love to have had a big birthday party for both my father and my Grandma. He's 60; and I'm not quite sure how old she is - 85 maybe?

As you get older, birthdays are milestones. Times to celebrate and enjoy spending time with one another.
But…we just don't have that in my family.

I try to make birthdays special for what family I do have near me - and I love having my family around.
Truthfully, I do it not only for them - but also for me as well. It gives me the "feeling" of family that I that don't have on a regular basis.

Emails and phone calls just aren't the same as sitting around the table together, sharing a meal.
Emailing pictures from birthday parties aren't the same as having kids eat a piece of cake with their Nana or Papa by their side.

I know that families aren't the same today as they were years ago; and birthdays are just one day a year - there are hundreds of day to day events that could be shared. But that doesn't mean that I don't wish that I could have that same time of togetherness for my own family.

So days like today, are times when I really wish I had my parents and my own grandparents close by.
And we could all celebrate the good times of meeting a milestone, together.

"I don't care to sit by the window on an airplane. If I can't control it, why look?"

Yesterday in work, some of us were talking about the Myers Briggs personality test. I had taken it years ago, and came up with a particular personality typing. It's understandable to see why these tests are used in employment processes because they do paint a very close picture of a person's personality. Of course, nothing in life is truly black and white - and there are always "exceptions to the rule", but generally speaking they're pretty much spot on.

So last night, I took the test again. And interestingly enough, I came up with the same results I came up with the last time I took it. So clearly, I am who I am!

And truthfully, there's no surprise in my results. I could've told you this is what my personality is like, but just not using such psychological terms.

I am an ENTJ: Extraverted iNtuitive Thinking Judging (Extraverted Thinking with Introverted Intuition). Otherwise lovingly known as the "Executive", or "Field Marshall".

"Executive/Field Marshall": The basic driving force and need is to lead. Tend to seek a position of responsibility and enjoys being an executive. 5% of the total population.

If you'd like to read a little bit more about my personality -which is eeriely accurate: http://www.e-mbti.com/entj.php

Got some time? Take the test yourself!
And see if your personality is defined the same as how you think you are!

Random Thoughts for the day....

1. Being a working Mom is sometimes a bitter pill to swallow. Especially on a day like today when one of my girlfriends is having a birthday party for her kids - and I don't get to go along with mine. It's gorgeous out, it's a water themed party - and not only are my kids going to be there, but some of my girlfriends will be as well. See, it's not just the days when everyone is sick that we working Moms wish we could stay home…but also when the kids are going to have a great day as well.

2. I'm going to a Slumber Party tomorrow night w. Glitter. What's a Slumber Party you ask? Well, it's one of those "girls only - adult toy" type parties. Yup. It should be a ton of fun! Although, I must confess - while I love going to these things, I'm not a huge shopper. (Read between the lines on this one!). Last party I went to, my girlfriends were hysterically laughing because I bought body moisturizer and a cookbook. Yes, a cookbook! I’m a little straitlaced… What? Is that a bad thing?

3. Speaking of cooking….I also have a Pampered Chef party coming up on Tuesday. Now that kind of party - this girl can do a ton of shopping at!

4. Um…can we please trade Wily Mo Pena now…? Please????

5. There's no good new music at the moment. I've been trying, really trying to find something amazing to like - and outside of Brandi Carlile (who isn't all that new) I'm not loving anything new that I'm hearing - in any genre. I mean, the songs I liked a few months ago are still really good. But I'm looking for something else really great now. One can only hear "Big Girls Don't Cry" so many times before they start crying themselves!

6. So just for funsies - I sent a resume to both Entercom and NESN. I doubt I'll hear back from them, but one never knows. I don’t think either one of them would financially come close to where I'm at right now, but who cares?!?! Well, clearly I DO really care - but it would be amazing to be able to work for either of those organizations. I still hang onto the dream of being a radio host, or the new Tina Cervasio/Hazel Mae. Probably won't happen but hey - a girl can dream.

7. I'm beginning to think that after a certain age, people should be retested for their drivers license. On base, a couple of times a month there is usually an influx of elderly people - veterans and their dependants. Which is sometimes, quite lovely to see. However…yesterday, as I was leaving the DD on base, an elderly man nearly ran over an elderly woman as he was backing up from his parking space. I was walking towards my truck and had to stop to let him pullout; as I was standing there, the woman is walking right towards him from the other direction. It was pretty evident that he was going to hit her if he didn't wait. I was watching it happen, thinking how can he possibly not see her - but sure enough… he was kept pulling out and was just about to hit her. I started yelling at him "you're going to hit that woman!" but he didn't hear me so I had to bang on his window to tell him to stop. She didn't see he was pulling out - he didn't see her - and then he tells me that she needed to watch where she was going! I'm thinking that the both of them needed a little guidance!

8. I am so craving sushi right now.

9. I'm going to run tonight after work. Don't know that I'll get to run outdoors but I'll definitely do at least a mile on the treadmill. I swear, I'm not going to lose my motivation. I am however, wondering what I'm going to make for dinner this evening though. I usually run while dinner is cooking - but I'm not clear on what I'm making. Aha! I think I might run to Whole Foods at lunch today and pick up something yummy… There, I've been inspired. I love when that happens.

10. It's only Wednesday? Not sure why - but this week feels like it's draaaagggging on. Looking forward to yoga on Friday! A friend of mine from work is going to try the class - and then another one of my friends is coming over afterwards for some Chinese. I love my Fridays… if only every day could be Friday.

Feeling sort of...blah.

Okay. So I'm in a rut.
I can feel it.

You know, I've never been the kind of person who's okay with complacency. And while I've got some irons in the fire professionally, on a personal level at the moment I'm just sort of coasting. I haven't found any books that really excite me since reading "The Kite Runner". I keep meaning to get the follow on to that book but just haven't had the chance to do it yet. I do try to pick up other books to read, but nothing has really gotten me feeling like I want to read it. So many fun books out there, but I just don't seem to be "in the mood" to read them.

I've been slacking on running. And I am not sure why. I really enjoy running…but I think it's because I've got no goal to work towards. A few months back, a few girls in the office asked if I wanted to run a half marathon with them. Of course I’m so not at that level so I said that I would love to but expressed my concern of not being a true long distance runner. The plan was that we'd all train together, but that didn't exactly happen. And I don't have anyone to train with so the half marathon is so not happening for me. That's okay though. I think I'm more geared towards the 5k/10k circuit anyway. So - I logged onto Cool Runnings and I am a little bit disappointed that at the moment there are no 5ks planned near me any weekend soon. Sigh…

I'm sure there will be shortly, they don’t always post right away - but damn it, I need a goal. I need something to work towards. Anyone interested in running a 5k? Let me know…

Maybe a little sunshine to come out at the end of the day today as the weatherman promised will make me feel better. If nothing else, I know today's 4:30 yoga class will!

Ding! Ding! Ding! (Literally.)

A few weeks back, I wrote a post about the DSS system here in MA and my disdain for how it's working - or rather, how it isn't working and it's astounding ineffectiveness.

 

Funny thing. 

Yesterday I'm getting my nails/toes done at the salon - and this very, bubbly and outgoing girl is sitting near me.  I mean, I'm outgoing - but she makes me appear introverted and socially inept.  So she's talking to everyone there, foucsing primarily on the technicians, asking them relatively personal questions and truthfully - they don't seem very much like they care for her but they're tolerating her.  She's getting involved in every person's conversation and then taking it over which I think some people were a little put off with.  She's very....eclectic looking.  And while it's important not to judge a person based upon appearances, it's hard not to take her appearance into consideration as part of the explanation in the story.  I think it shows some of her outward personality.  She sports a crew cut/wiffle hair style, seems very masculine - and then shows us all this like 5 carat diamond ring she's wearing and going on about how she got married at Copley 5 years ago.  Which of course, sent the technicians in a tizzy because I think they thought she was not exactly interested in men.  She proceeds to tell us all that it's her 3rd marriage, who paid what for the wedding, and how her husband is an executive and that she's into Buddism but her Mom is Jehovah's Witness and that she's Jewish... and so on and so on.  I mean, if I sat near her long enough, I'd probably know her blood type, her brand of shampoo and probably the color underwear she was wearing that day.  She held hardly anything back.  And then she's ending all of her sentences with "God Bless, God Bless you".  She is so very over the top outgoing and sticky sweet nice in a scary way - that even I am almost intimidated.  Imagine!

 

Then she announces that she's a social worker for DSS.  And that she goes from home to home overseeing abuse cases and foster children.

 

So, I asked her a little bit about her job; and shared with her a little about my concerns with the organization at the moment.  And while you might think that she'd be very communicative about her job, the stresses or what she likes about it -- she couldn't hold a clear thought together to form a full sentence about it.  Which, sort of surprised me.  I mean, she came across as flaky and flighty....but warm.  And then I think - wow, she's a Social Worker for the State, clearly she must be a bright girl.  You know what?  It  became apparently clear within two minutes that maybe there really was nothing more to her than the flake and the flight. 

 

Hmm.

And then suddenly I had even better insight as to why DSS is such a mess.

 

From the top....down. 

And clearly - every person in between as well.

 

(The caveat to this, is that - my conscience is killing me at the moment because she was so very nice to me, complimentary etc... and so I feel really badly about not writing the most flattering piece about this woman.  But you know, I am just so appalled at this whole DSS situation that sometimes, I have to just take a deep breath and say..it is what it is.)

 

 

Attention all Moms/Aunts/Grandma types who live near me:

Okay, the cake I'm about to post up on this site for you to see was made at.....

Market Basket in Wilmington.

Their cakes are "to die for!" And this one, exceeded all expecations I had - and let me tell you, they were pretty darn high to start with. Well, sounds silly that they were high since I had a supermarket make it as opposed to like, Rosies or something. But the bakery items at this store are so gorgeous - they're almost too pretty to eat. And this one - takes the cake.

They've asked me to make prints for them to post in the bakery area. Naturally, I'm happy to oblige.

So, obviously this weekend is the birthday bash for my aforementioned Princess Petunia. I just got home from a kickin' yoga class which I needed badly since I've been on the go since 8 a.m. - and haven't even started cooking yet. IParty, The Restaurant Depot, Market Basket, Shaws, Walmart, Target, Colarusso's Farm Stand.. the list goes on. I am a one woman event coordinator/caterer/cook. (Sound of the heavens opening up and angels singing HERE). Could I get an IV of caffeine please? No, truthfully - I only have to cook a little, organize alot and finish setting up the tables and chairs in the yard. And then I can call it a day.

Collage of the day to follow soon, I promise.

Behold....the Tinkerbell cake.

And trust me - this picture does it no justice.

They even spelled her middle name wrong, and you know what - I don't even care.

Happy Birthday to my Princess Petunia....

Three years ago today, my little girl surprised me with an early arrival.
I shouldn't have been too surprised though; she was an active baby inutero…it was a complicated pregnancy…and it was definitely an indicator of her personality!

She's funny…really has a sense of humor, which is funny to see in someone so young; she's got a gleam in her eye when she smiles…and she's a tough cookie.

At the same time, she's so very sensitive…and her feelings get hurt so easily, which you never would expect because her personality is so spunky.

Sofia Anjolie. Sofia meaning " wise", and Anjolie meaning "beautiful angel". If there's any truth to the meanings behind our names, I hope I did well by her.

She always says "you’re my BEST girlfriend Mommy". I'm really looking forward doing fun girly things with her, and having her be like another little girlfriend as she gets older. Of course, one with a much earlier bed time than most - but a girlfriend none the less.

Time truly goes by so quickly. Three years ago was such a short time, and yet so much has happened in those three years - it's hard to believe that it was only three years ago that she was an infant in my arms. It's amazing how quickly they grow up and become "little adults".

I love you my Princess Petunia….Mini Marshmellow!
Thank you for being my "best girlfriend ever!"

(Since I'm emailing this post in - I'm not sure if the picture I'm including will post…but hopefully it will!)

Tagged by Ms. Pink & Green...

Or, Ladybugs12 as her new monikor is.  As cute as Ladybugs12 is, E - you will probably forever be Ms Pink and Green to me!

So, it's been some time since I was tagged by another, normally I'm throwing out surveys on my own.  So I'm happy to answer these, and gladly tag along the following people:
Suldog…Pink Shoes…Chesney Girl…Sexy Redhead.

(Sorry I can't embed your links folks - I'm restricted by my work to access them, and this girl's memory isn't working all that well today!)

*************************************************************************************
5 things in your refrigerator.
(hmmm.  Not much at the moment since I'm due to go food shopping!)

1. Yogurt
2. Hummus
3. Salad stuff
4. Rice & Soy Milk
5. Leftover American Chop Suey

5 things in your closet:
(You mean in addition to clothes?)

1. Shoes
2. Boots
3. Handbags
4. Work Clothes
5. Play Clothes

5 things in your purse or backpack
(I'm so not a backpack kinda girl)

1. GUM (always!)
2. My Ipod is in there today
3. My work badges/IDs
4. Perfume (Amarige, Very Sexy and Victoria Secret's Love Spell.  Hey, a girl likes to smell pretty!)
5. Lip Fusion

5 things in your car

1. My cell phone charger
2. Room Spray (Car needs to smell pretty too!)
3. My yoga mat
4. A change of clothes (on the offchance I can take a spur of the moment yoga class, or go running)
5. Pens

5 things in the world you want to see before you die
(Only 5?)

1. My children grow to be happy adults
2. Wine Country
3. France AND Italy.  Both.
4. My family all live in one location together
5. A sunrise, and a sunset - in one day, on the same beach.  Preferably in Costa Rica….

Yet another song I wish I had written....

All of these lines across my face
Tell you the story of who I am
So many stories of where I've been
And how I got to where I am
But these stories don't mean anything
When you've got no one to tell them to
It's true...

You see the smile that's on my mouth
Its hiding the words that don't come out
And all of my friends who think that I'm blessed
They don't know my head is a mess
No, they don't know who I really am
And they don't know what I've been through

The Story: Brandi Carlile

Whats even better than the words, is the passion with which she sings.
Love this song.

A weekend in review: Televison style!

So, I watched a little television this weekend. Not too much, but what I did see - I wanted to share.

Friday night:
A little Red Sox. Never much fun when they lose, especially on such a close game.

Saturday night:
A little more Red Sox. Always fun when they win!
Arturo Gatti v. Alfonso Gomez, including all the undercards. The fight before the main event and after the main event - were great. The names of the boxers are escaping me at the moment but if you enjoy boxing and have the opportunity to watch the replay on HBO - please do so. You won't be disaapointed. The main event, was heartbreaking. I love Arturo Gatti. Not only is he handsome ( I think so, in a very masculine sort of way!), he's got such tremendous heart and is always such a great athlete to watch. He is heart and soul when it comes to boxing. And unfortunately, he had to end his career Saturday night. As Max Kellerman put it - we watched the fall of a an action hero. It was sad to see him lose - but it was also in a way nice to see Alfonso Gomez look so great. He's from "The Contender" and I always liked him. He's talented, and he's got a strong heart in the ring as well. He looked good Saturday, but only time will tell when he fights another opponent. He shouldn't be calling out Julio Cesar Chavez Jr just yet, but hey - I'm not his manager.

Sunday night:
"Scott Baio: Still Single at 45": HA. This show kills me. If you thought you were a Scott Baio fan - watch this show, I assure you that you probably won't be one afterwards! I never was; I was one of the few girls I knew that didn't think he was cute. And I still don’t think he's that good looking. However… to me, it's no secret as to why he's 45 and still single. Scott, I've got two words for you pal: Dick. Head. There's your answer. Change your attitude and you just might go somewhere in life besides living off Chachi and Charles in Charge -- and so very begrudgingly at that.

"Big Love": You know, I really like this show. I like it a lot. It was a bit difficult to get into at first, given that I don't really care for ANY of the actors in the show; but the story line is unique. And the writers have actually gotten me to be endeared to the characters. It's no "Dexter" or "Rescue Me". It doesn’t grab you from the first show; it's a slow burner, but well worth watching.

And I didn't watch much of the Red Sox in between. Because it's really never much fun when they lose - especially when it's such a close game.

(This is my first attempt at posting via email. If it worked, and you know me in "real life" and can get in touch with me at work, please do! I'd like to know if it worked!)

From A-Z

Could it be any more gorgeous out? Perfect. Not too hot, not too cool. Not too humid.
Today I'm taking the kids to my girfriend's house for a cookout and hanging out at the pool. I'm bringing a fruit salad and some stuff for the grill - and I'm looking forward to just hanging out. While I love the beach, the pool is so much easier at times. No sand, no fuss, no mess.
AAAAAAAAAAAAhhhhhhhhhhhh.

This Saturday Survey is....From A-Z!
If you use it, let me know!

A-Apples or Oranges? I think I prefer apples. Oranges sometimes burn my lips!
B-Best Friend: If I had to pick just one? Kim. But all my girlfriends are my better halves....
C-Cake or Pie: Oooh. Tough one. Probably cake.
D-Drink of Choice: Spring Water.
E-Essential Item(s): Lip Fusion, hand/body lotion, my yoga mat
F- Favorite Color(s): Chocolate & Plum
G- Gummi Bears or Worms? I hate them both.
H- Hometown: Malden
I- Indulgence: Doritos, Dips, and extra extra cheese on my pizza
J- January or February: Wow. They were hurting for a J question.
K- Kids: 2
L- Life is incomplete without: Happiness and self contentment
M- Money, important?: It's not mission critical but you clearly need it to survive!
N- Number of Siblings: 1
O- Oranges or Apples? Wow, wasn't that the "A" question?
P- Phobias/Fears: I don't love being underwater; I have control issues so I don't love amusement rides that much!
Q- Favorite Quote: "I'm filling in the negative space with positively everything" - Miss Edie Brickell
R- Reasons to smile: What reason is there NOT to smile?
S- Season: Autumn
T- Tag Three: How about this: if you read this and you want to play along, then please play along.
U- Unknown Fact About Me: I won't eat alone. I'd eat alone in a restaurant no problem, but at home - I dont' eat if I'm alone. Eating is very social for me and I don't enjoy cooking for just myself. I'd rather snack on cereal or something.
V – Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animals? Wow, that's harsh. I love animals, but eat meat. Hey, I'm higher on the food chain, what can I say? I don't eat veal though.
W- Worst Habit(s): Procrastination.
X – X-rays or Ultrasounds? I've had both!
Y- Your Favorite Foods: I love it all. Love to eat! Beef, pizza, chinese, pasta, mexican, what don't I love? I just enjoy food.
Z- Zodiac: VIRGO.

Funny thing happened to me yesterday....

I've been preoccupied it seems.

First time I noticed this was on Tuesday as I was in the vets office, picking up my cat from being declawed. I went to pay, and realized that I did not have my debit card on me. The last time I had remembered using it was when I got my hair cut -- two Fridays ago. So now I'm panicking as I call my bank to verify that no one has used it since that date. Fortunately, no one had - so easily enough we stopped that card and reissued another one. I left the card inside of the ATM machine within my branch. How stupid! I mean, I know that I'm not the first person to misplace their ATM card, but truly - how preoccupied was I that I couldn't remember to take it with me? I didn't think I had that much on my mind that day, but clearly I did.

Wednesday, I had a splitting headache that literally just spring upon me as I was driving home (and still have, truth be told). One minute I was fine, the next minute - raging headache. And I just wasn't in the mood to cook. I wanted something cool and refreshing…so I thought, "aaah. Sushi!". So when I got home, I grabbed my daughter and took her with me to what I thought was the closest Whole Foods. (Word to the wise, the Woburn store is REALLY in Winchester - so while Woburn is one town away - Winchester is not, and it took what felt like forever to get there!) Anyway. I get my food - and as I'm leaving, the carriage somehow cuts my pinky toe (I was wearing flip flops) and this teensy tiny nick on my pinky toe is bleeding like I've been amputated. So now my daughter is upset seeing me bleed, there's blood gushing -- I mean puddling in my flip flop - and I'm trying to get her and the groceries into my truck. Meanwhile, two people get out of their car and walk by me and say "Oh Miss, do you know you're bleeding?". In my head I'm thinking "hell yes I know I'm bleeding thank you!" but I politely smile and say "yes, I know, thank you - I'll look for a tissue after I load up my truck". So now I'm mortified on top of injured while my daughter is being uncooperative. Despite this, I put the carriage away - because I don't want to leave it in the middle of the lot even though I'm being completely grossed out.

What did I forget to bring with me, as I drove away?
My wallet. Sitting right in the top of the carriage………..but I didn't know that at the time.
Oh no. I discovered that yesterday morning on my way to work. In Burlington.
I realize that I must've left my wallet at home.

So I drive all the way home, to discover my wallet wasn't there.
(Insert wave of panic rushing through me, HERE. Oh and that headache that I thought was gone with the sushi? Returned.)

I very calmly call Whole Foods, where I'm pleased to discover that my wallet was graciously returned by a passerby who noticed I left it. So back up 128 to Burlington I drive - to go into Winchester to get my wallet before heading into work.

I'm not normally so scattered. But clearly, I'm a bit preoccupied as of late.
Must be that whole "not getting to see Jason" thing that's gone to my head.
Kidding….

It's just a little crush...

Okay. So I've been really good about not gushing too much about my "boyfriend" Jason Varitek.

However....I was supposed to attend an event that he was sponsoring a few weeks back - but then I found out he wasn't going to be there. He was going to be hosting the Celebrity Putt Putt that he does yearly - on the same night. ." I was all set with the cutest outfit, and the best shoes I had bought for this night too -- which I still have yet to wear....but I digress.

So, I tried to get tickets online -- but all the sites said that it was sold out. So what's a girl to do? I'm not really a stalker, I just pretend to be one! So, I sucked it up and just didn't go. I figured, "maybe next year".
Sigh.

Well.

One of my girlfriends left me a voice mail the next morning about how she and her husband were driving by Flynn Rink in Medford and saw all sorts of craziness going on. So they stopped in to see what it was. No tickets, or anything….and wouldn't you know they got in to the event…... and got to meet Jason? Um, hello!? They had their photos taken with him and everything. You should've seen me, I practically drove off the road as I listened to her message. I was one - very excited for them because truthfully, how cool is that to stumble upon? And two - well, we're talking about Jason here! (Sigh…I can't help it, I'm starting to gush.)

So, I've been avoiding looking at any photos of the event, because well truthfully, I just don't want to see what I missed out on. But for some reason, yesterday afternoon I thought "hmmm. I wonder how it was?" Okay, I am blown away that I didn't even attempt to go. What is wrong with me? I only looked at about 5 pictures so far and I saw Mike Timlin, Josh Beckett, Julio Lugo (who I still want traded, but he looks like a nice enough guy!) and of course... Jason. I had to close the site down because really, I just do not want to see anymore.

The salt is in the wound…I get it.
Sigh…… Maybe next year.

Music and memories....

Driving in to work yesterday morning, I had a musical memory moment. It was hearing Guns & Roses "You're Crazy". Funny thing is, that while I loved G'nR - and actually had the pleasure of seeing them at the Boston Orpheum before they were G'nR and just "Guns&Roses" - that wasn't the memory it evoked. It brought me back to the summer I graduated high school, hanging out with my high school sweetheart in our friend Duff's back yard…cooking linguica on the grill and listening to Lynard Skynard and the Allman Brothers. I could actually hear "Sweet Home Alabama" in my head. You would think that hearing a song would bring me back to a time that is relevant to that song and yet it didn't. Weird, huh?

I went back to yoga Monday night after two painfully long weeks. I was about ready to kill someone last week - I was desperately trying to find another yoga studio anywhere from where I live, upwards to Derry NH - in an effort to find a studio that was running a class mid day. I had half the day off and no OM to find! What's that all about?!?! So by last night I was thrilled to go. I'm actually taking another class today because I'm chasing the high of being sore. You know what that feels like if you work out….it's that sore but good sore feeling. I'm a firm believer that if you don't feel that, you need to change your work out regimen. I went again yesterday afternoon and now I'm feeling...amazing.

Well, I'm off to an appointment and then to work. I had planned to take the full day off but truthfully, the weather's not looking so great, so I'm saving the half day for a better weather forecast.

I need to figure out this being able to post via email thing.
Glitter - help a girl out!

Who even wants to watch anymore?

Last night, as I channel surfed I came upon a reality television show that I swore I wouldn't watch again: Big Brother. Now in it's 8th season.

I can't believe this show made it this long. The first season, was really good. I liked it; it was a new concept and the people on it were pretty cool. Seemingly regular people from different walks of life that were trying to compete for money. The second season was really good too - a little more strategic at times but just a good group of people to watch. They seemed to genuinely either like or dislike each other, but it didn't seem overly played up for the camera. And then of course, September 11th happened - and to me, reality television was put in it's place by reality on television.

I attempted to watch the Big Brother 3 - but hated it. I don't think I made it past the second week. It became too much of a Survivor type show, but in a house. I hate Survivor. I hate the egos, the alliances, the drama. Big Brother had drama that was self created from within; once the producers start mucking with it, adding drama and pitting people against each other - never mind hiring people that seemingly were actors trying to get their 15 minutes of fame - it all went south for me.

Big Brother 8 is no different. Everyone seems horribly over dramatic and hyped up; even the "Mom" figure seems like she's playing for the camera. Everyone's either very hot, very dumb, very shallow, very quirky or very gay. Everyone is to the extreme of their personality type. There's no "normal" or "middle of the road"on the show. It's become "The Real World" but 24-7 with challenges, competitions and alliances. One girl, "Jen" - literally cried for 20 minutes because she didn't like her picture. I'm talking sobbing, bawling, crying. Seriously?!?!?!

I hate stupid television shows. Don't the networks realize that sometimes, the novelty has worn off?

Life's a Beach!

Today, the kids and I are off to meet a girlfriend of mine from work at NewCastle Beach in NH. I've never been before - it's supposed to be pretty nice, and it's only about an hour from me so it's going to be a nice ride to just relax, drink my coffee and hope that the sun breaks through the clouds like the meterologists have predicted.

Not too long ago, another friend of mine in work and I were discussing beaches one day, and what were some of the qualities that one might look for in finding the "perfect" beach.
So here are some of things I love about a beach...what are some of the things you love?

Sand: I like soft, soft sand for lounging on. But it's also great when there's really firm sand if you want to do some running. I just don't love the sharp, shelled filled sand that we often have here in New England. It hurts your feet!!!

Cliffs/Rocks: Ideally, I love to go climbing the rocks along the water. Think sort of like where you can walk out at Rockport - but for a much longer stretch. Some of the smaller beaches in Marblehead have that. I love to just pack a bag, and hang out on the rocks.

Live Band: Tons of fun, especially at night!! During the day...that depends on the mood.

North Shore v.South Shore: I think you're either one of these types of people. I've always been a North Shore kind of girl. I bet I could learn to love the Cape if the traffic wasn't such a freaking nightmare all the time. The warmer water would be nice, that's for sure!

Cleanliness: A clean beach, with nice facilities around it is a must. Being a North Shore girl, I grew up being minutes from Revere Beach. Not so clean. Better than it was at one point but not ideal. King's Beach in Lynn/Swampscott has been cleaned up tremendously and is a beautiful beach to go walking/running on. Especially if you're a dog lover!

So, I'm either very hormonal....

Or Grey's Anatomy is just damn good television.
I'll take the latter.
(A girl will never admit to being hormonal.)

Last night I watched three episodes in a row, finishing with the drowning episode of Meredith and how she's brought back to life.

Call me sappy, call me crazy...call me a girl.
While I didn't cry as in sobbing cry....I did have a few tears silently running down my cheek more than once in that episode.

I'm so bummed that I'm almost at the end of this season - and wouldn't you know, as I was watching yet another Isiah Washington interview last night, they gave me a spoiler on the finale. Which really stinks. But that's okay. Given the fact that he's off the show, I sort of knew something like that was happening.

And that is another rant for another day...just the Isiah Washington interview on Larry King alone is rant worthy.

In due time....

Sick to my stomach....

Something needs to be done drastically to the DSS here in Massachusetts.

A little girl was FINALLY taken away from her horrible, abominable, pathetic excuse of a Mother - and her abusive and deranged boyfriend. She had bite marks on her face so severe that a portion of her top lip was missing. Her ear could not be reconstructed. This is horrifying to me not only as a mother - but as a human being.

And what's even more disturbing than the case itself is that the DSS had been following this case since January. This poor three year old girl has been abused for probably her whole life - someone finally reported it - and the DSS just now took her away? After 7 months? How can these social workers live with themselves?

The stories of the abuse just keep getting worse, and worse -- each case just a little more gruesome than the last. I don't understand how parents either abuse their children, or allow an abuser to live in the home. Most of these cases aren't even abuse anymore -- they are torture. My stomach lurches when I think about how these poor children must cry! And how painful their cries must be. I just don't understand it and in some ways I almost want to stick my head in the sand about it because I can't change it. There is nothing that I can do to help this little girl - or any other child that is being tortured and abused.

Again, these are the stories that are the cause behind my not watching the news, or reading anything other than the sports or entertainment pages anymore. People aren't just killing each other these days. Gang murders and wife killings are a thing of the past. The latest trend is child abuse…and it's something that I just can't stomach reading, watching or hearing about.
Someone needs to grab the DSS organization and rip it apart, person by person. There needs to be restaffing. And there needs to be new laws that make abuse towards children maybe even a stiffer fine than murder.

Truthfully - I think the death penalty should be imposed upon a parent that tortures their child or knowingly allows it to happen. Because in many ways - they did take their little life away.

Independence Day...

I pledge allegiance to the flag
Of the United States of America.
And to the Republic, for which it stands...
One nation, under God, indivisible....
With liberty....and justice for all.

The Pledge of Allegiance should always be said in schools. There should never be a debate, a question or a hesitation regarding it.

I don't care who your God is.....and it doesn't matter who my God is.
Whomever the God is that you choose to pray to, is also who is watching this one nation - but they should be referred to as the generic term of "God". That term sort of covers all bases, does it not?

If you live in this country, you should honor and respect the liberties and freedoms we have by saying the pledge of allegiance with your hand over your heart; and I believe that it belongs in school systems all over this country and said every morning.

This isnt a Bible passage; it's a pledge of respect to the flag of the United States.
If anyone sees it as anything other than such....then I'm sorry.
Maybe you should live elsewhere.

Maybe you need to remember that days like the 4th of July aren't about fireworks, and parades. It's about the day that this country won it's independence from England - and our democracy was born. It was the beginning of becoming the nation that we are today, and I'm so thankful to be an American. I don't believe in jumping on the trendy bandwagon of feeling "ashamed" because so many countries "hate" us right now. No matter what happens, and there will always be things that our government will do that we won't always like, I will never turn my back on my country or the flag.

Happy Third of July!

Some of the nicest people I know were born on this day…. My Mom. Her twin sister - yes that would be my Aunt. My pen pal Heather. And now….a new addition to the family, as my cousin just had a baby girl that she named Ella this morning. I seem to think that if any of the other people that I know who are born on this day are any indicator of personality and temperment, then I think it's safe to say that little Ella is going to be a very sweet little girl.

I don't have any big plans for the 4th this year. I'm hoping the weather holds out and stays nicer than anticipated since my neighbor is hosting a block party - and to be outdoors in the sun and pool, rather than indoors out of the rain -- would be lovely. Plus my sister and I have tentative plans to take the kids to the lake to see the fireworks at night - so here's hoping that there's no rain.

The remainder of the week is up in the air. I was supposed to be in Maine all week, but that got changed at the last minute, so I'm not on vacation. I'm thinking I"ll be making an appearance in the office in the mornings and then I'll leave early to go home to be with the kids. Maybe finally plant that herb garden I've been procrastinating on…or maybe take the kids to the beach if the weather cooperates. We went to Rockport on Sunday which was nice but still a bit cool. Not a good water kind of day.

So I guess the rest of this week is "up for grabs" so to speak.
Have I mentioned how much I hate that I can't blog at work?!?!? AAAAGh.