Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Do you find it weird?
Do you find it weird that we (ladies) will go undress to our birthday suits for a perfect stranger in order to get airbrushed with self tanner to feel a tad bit better about ourselves/appearance? I do. But heck, I sure did it tonight with no qualms. I think it's just so funny that it's part of the business they run..."hey, ladies, come in here, get naked in front of this stranger and have her stare at your body for about 5 minutes while she airbrushes you and your crevices!" Yikes. Weird, but it's a pretty lucrative business, charging $30 a session! EEK!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
1st Party....SUCCESS!!!
So I'm not much of a party-thrower, but I felt compelled to throw one for my new place because I love it so much and the location is great, plus...everyone kept saying "When can I see your place?" So, there it was, a party had to be had. Early November I picked December 17th as the perfect day because it was the Friday that ended my semester at school (so I knew I'd be ready to party!), and it was a Friday in December, which is waaaay safer than a Saturday in December because we know how many holiday parties we all have. So, that was it...December 17th.
Can I say how perfect this date was? Well it was. My good friend, Meg, came over early and started putting together some apps and sangria. I got home with beer in hand (cases!) around 3:45 and we just worked from then on.
Apps and drink list:
Buffalo Chicken Dip (duh, this is a party MUST!)
Dill dip with veggies
Feta Cheese Dip (my mom's spectacular recipe...it's a breath-killer but I've met NO ONE who
doesn't like it)
Guacamole
Jodi's home-made Jalapeno Poppers (not fried, and apparently great and HOT!)
Cream Cheese with Sweet Pepper Jelly
Red Wine (every kind)
White Wine (Riesling and Pinot Grigio)
Bud Light
Coors Light
*Sailor Jerry was brought by TWO people, so we had that to mix!
Everyone brought a bottle of wine...sooo nice of people, but I did NOT expect that! They stocked my wine rack. Anyway, I couldn't believe that every single person in attendance was ready to party and NOT ONE Debbie Downer showed up (she wasn't on the guest list). It was just incredible how the night ended up. We drank and socialized here for a few hours and then headed to a bar in town, Living Room Lounge, which we like to refer to as the Danville Bar in Indianapolis. It's definitely fun on Fridays because of karaoke. We got there, and we hogged the dance floor the entire night. Everyone was still partying and just having an awesome time. I was very happy with the success of the night. It was so good to have my friends all together and having a blast as one group!
Earlier in the week I got a little sad because a lot of my friends weren't coming. I didn't understand because through the years I've attended party after party (bachelorette, baby, birthday, bridal, etc.) and the one time I have a party--first ever--they couldn't even attend. It hurt my feelings because some of them continue to think of a reason NOT to come to town every time I ask. I travel to see them many many times, so it'd be nice if they could do the same. And I don't care if some are guys and "they're GUYS, they don't think that way"...well, they should! Obviously, I got over it and enjoyed my party, but it doesn't mean it didn't leave a little scar on my heart because coming to my party "wasn't the most convenient" for them.
So, overall, 1st ever party was a SUCCESS!!! See pix below!!!
Jodi and Meg tying one on! Ready to hit up the town!
*Not really sure about this one...Meg loves her iphone but it gives a ghostly look to pix at times!
Can I say how perfect this date was? Well it was. My good friend, Meg, came over early and started putting together some apps and sangria. I got home with beer in hand (cases!) around 3:45 and we just worked from then on.
Apps and drink list:
Buffalo Chicken Dip (duh, this is a party MUST!)
Dill dip with veggies
Feta Cheese Dip (my mom's spectacular recipe...it's a breath-killer but I've met NO ONE who
doesn't like it)
Guacamole
Jodi's home-made Jalapeno Poppers (not fried, and apparently great and HOT!)
Cream Cheese with Sweet Pepper Jelly
Red Wine (every kind)
White Wine (Riesling and Pinot Grigio)
Bud Light
Coors Light
*Sailor Jerry was brought by TWO people, so we had that to mix!
Everyone brought a bottle of wine...sooo nice of people, but I did NOT expect that! They stocked my wine rack. Anyway, I couldn't believe that every single person in attendance was ready to party and NOT ONE Debbie Downer showed up (she wasn't on the guest list). It was just incredible how the night ended up. We drank and socialized here for a few hours and then headed to a bar in town, Living Room Lounge, which we like to refer to as the Danville Bar in Indianapolis. It's definitely fun on Fridays because of karaoke. We got there, and we hogged the dance floor the entire night. Everyone was still partying and just having an awesome time. I was very happy with the success of the night. It was so good to have my friends all together and having a blast as one group!
Earlier in the week I got a little sad because a lot of my friends weren't coming. I didn't understand because through the years I've attended party after party (bachelorette, baby, birthday, bridal, etc.) and the one time I have a party--first ever--they couldn't even attend. It hurt my feelings because some of them continue to think of a reason NOT to come to town every time I ask. I travel to see them many many times, so it'd be nice if they could do the same. And I don't care if some are guys and "they're GUYS, they don't think that way"...well, they should! Obviously, I got over it and enjoyed my party, but it doesn't mean it didn't leave a little scar on my heart because coming to my party "wasn't the most convenient" for them.
So, overall, 1st ever party was a SUCCESS!!! See pix below!!!
Jodi and Meg tying one on! Ready to hit up the town!
*Not really sure about this one...Meg loves her iphone but it gives a ghostly look to pix at times!
The Kitchen is THE SPOT at parties...
...and MORE kitchen! Higg Dog and Meg having fun!
There, now you can feel like you were at the party! CHEERS! or Slante (if we were in Ireland!)
Kitchen, again!
...and MORE kitchen! Higg Dog and Meg having fun!
There, now you can feel like you were at the party! CHEERS! or Slante (if we were in Ireland!)
Sunday, December 12, 2010
I'm bringing sexy back, folks
I must've just uncovered a secret sexiness and I probably shouldn't share the secret, but I will because I'm just THAT nice. This weekend, I unintentionally started a trend...to not shower. Yep, that's right. I woke up Saturday and immediately became the cleaning fairy in my loft. During that time, I started laundry in the building, and was truly becoming Cinderella with a scrubbing brush, suds and all. (sidenote: that scrubbing takes some real elbow grease! I think if I did that more often I may change from Cinderella to Popeye!) Then, I had to face the many unfinished canvases glaring, not just staring, but glaring at me because they know I've neglected them. Poor paintings, I'm sorry! So I began painting, then noticed the rolls of wrapping paper peeking out from under the couch...yet another reminder of something not done. Sheesh. So where in that ridiculously packed day was there time for a) a shower, and b) to brush my teeth?? I'm kidding...only slightly because I realized later in the day "OMG, I haven't even brushed my teeth!" But that's ok because I encountered no one and honestly, they looked and felt pretty clean. Don't worry, I brushed them extra hard and long before bed, AND did Crest Whitestrips! Go me!
I considered taking a shower after all was said and done, and even considered (for about a 1/2 of a second) to polish my toenails, but that thought vanished as quickly as it came. Instead, I thought I deserved a break. I chatted with a guy on match.com (yes, I'm on it, and no, I'm not embarrassed, obviously!)..he seemed cool, nice, "normal". Then, The Cuddler (my "double-wide" recliner) so sweetly called my name: "Baby, come take a seat....relax, you deserve it, you've worked so hard all day. Come!" So I did. How could I say no?
Today, I woke up and decided to snooze a few hundred times after the alarm, then skipped church! That is awful. It's ONE day a week.....ONE!...and I skipped it to go to the huge Reebok/Adidas Warehouse sale. Do you think I showered before that? Eee-er. No. Sho' didn't. Went to Lowe's, then Meijer. And here is where my day turned for the worse. Although, here is also where I apparently brought sexy back.
Meijer...a store I don't usually enter, at least not since college. I chose it above Aldi, being that Aldi doesn't protect their customers' credit card info and both of my bank account #'s and pins were stolen from there, Meijer seemed pretty appealing. I slip-slided through the parking lot, got a basket to shop, and got my goods. Looking for rice chex, I pass 2 employees....males. They are deep in convo. I only noticed them because they were blocking the aisle I needed. Timeout: Let me describe my outfit. I am wearing somewhat skinny jeans but not super tight, Ugg-alike boots, big sweatshirt, t-shirt hanging out, puffy vest, ear/headband for warmth, and my dirty hair is pulled back into the world's tiniest pony-tail. Correction, world's 2nd tiniest pony-tail because 1st place went to the security guard at the Reebok Warehouse...I think she got me on length, but I definitely got her on girth...that girl had to have a total of 10 hairs to make 1 pony-tail....sad. :(
Ok, timeout is over. I walk by the 2 guys, and 1 so rudely interrupts his counterpart to say "Damn, she is sexy as a motherf*cker!" And his eyes are all over my puffy vest and dirty hair. I pass, ignore the comment because he either a) thought my headband was soundproof, or b) wanted me to hear that. I could've hit myself at that point because the aisle with the rice chex was the one he was blocking. I walk into the aisle, only to pass Mr. Obvious and hear "She is sexy as hell!" Now, folks, was the appropriate response to these comments to:
1. Keep walking, ignore ignore ignore, and study the cereal aisle as though you are reading nutritional info on every box.
OR
2. Acknowledge him, say "Hi, your name is...(read his nametag), insert name here. I heard you say I'm sexy. Are you single?"
OR
3. Acknowledge him, drop kick him for being a pig and say "How's THAT for sexy!"
Well of course #1. But, this is what I don't get....when guys make those comments, do they truly in their hearts feel they are being complimentary to women? And do they think those actions get good reactions, like "Here's my #!" Same with honking the horn. Guys honk and holla at girls running/walking all the time....do they really think we're going to wave our arms to flag them down and beg them to return because we can't resist their studly-ness? Uh no. And I'm sorry if they HAVE gotten that type of response in the past.
So yes, I brought sexy back by not showering and wearing my baggy, puffy, most nonflattering clothing. That's the secret, Ladies, don't shower, wear hot clothes, a headband for warmth, fake uggs with the buttons falling off, and for extra sexiness, might as well not brush your teeth for a few days....it seems we should do the opposite for a change and we'll get a great response from the gentlemen! WOOT WOOT!
I considered taking a shower after all was said and done, and even considered (for about a 1/2 of a second) to polish my toenails, but that thought vanished as quickly as it came. Instead, I thought I deserved a break. I chatted with a guy on match.com (yes, I'm on it, and no, I'm not embarrassed, obviously!)..he seemed cool, nice, "normal". Then, The Cuddler (my "double-wide" recliner) so sweetly called my name: "Baby, come take a seat....relax, you deserve it, you've worked so hard all day. Come!" So I did. How could I say no?
Today, I woke up and decided to snooze a few hundred times after the alarm, then skipped church! That is awful. It's ONE day a week.....ONE!...and I skipped it to go to the huge Reebok/Adidas Warehouse sale. Do you think I showered before that? Eee-er. No. Sho' didn't. Went to Lowe's, then Meijer. And here is where my day turned for the worse. Although, here is also where I apparently brought sexy back.
Meijer...a store I don't usually enter, at least not since college. I chose it above Aldi, being that Aldi doesn't protect their customers' credit card info and both of my bank account #'s and pins were stolen from there, Meijer seemed pretty appealing. I slip-slided through the parking lot, got a basket to shop, and got my goods. Looking for rice chex, I pass 2 employees....males. They are deep in convo. I only noticed them because they were blocking the aisle I needed. Timeout: Let me describe my outfit. I am wearing somewhat skinny jeans but not super tight, Ugg-alike boots, big sweatshirt, t-shirt hanging out, puffy vest, ear/headband for warmth, and my dirty hair is pulled back into the world's tiniest pony-tail. Correction, world's 2nd tiniest pony-tail because 1st place went to the security guard at the Reebok Warehouse...I think she got me on length, but I definitely got her on girth...that girl had to have a total of 10 hairs to make 1 pony-tail....sad. :(
Ok, timeout is over. I walk by the 2 guys, and 1 so rudely interrupts his counterpart to say "Damn, she is sexy as a motherf*cker!" And his eyes are all over my puffy vest and dirty hair. I pass, ignore the comment because he either a) thought my headband was soundproof, or b) wanted me to hear that. I could've hit myself at that point because the aisle with the rice chex was the one he was blocking. I walk into the aisle, only to pass Mr. Obvious and hear "She is sexy as hell!" Now, folks, was the appropriate response to these comments to:
1. Keep walking, ignore ignore ignore, and study the cereal aisle as though you are reading nutritional info on every box.
OR
2. Acknowledge him, say "Hi, your name is...(read his nametag), insert name here. I heard you say I'm sexy. Are you single?"
OR
3. Acknowledge him, drop kick him for being a pig and say "How's THAT for sexy!"
Well of course #1. But, this is what I don't get....when guys make those comments, do they truly in their hearts feel they are being complimentary to women? And do they think those actions get good reactions, like "Here's my #!" Same with honking the horn. Guys honk and holla at girls running/walking all the time....do they really think we're going to wave our arms to flag them down and beg them to return because we can't resist their studly-ness? Uh no. And I'm sorry if they HAVE gotten that type of response in the past.
So yes, I brought sexy back by not showering and wearing my baggy, puffy, most nonflattering clothing. That's the secret, Ladies, don't shower, wear hot clothes, a headband for warmth, fake uggs with the buttons falling off, and for extra sexiness, might as well not brush your teeth for a few days....it seems we should do the opposite for a change and we'll get a great response from the gentlemen! WOOT WOOT!
Friday, December 10, 2010
Tis the Season to be...broke? Yikes
It's one of my favorite times of the year....I absolutely LOVE sitting around in the evening with the Christmas tree just gently lighting the room....barely noticing it but knowing it's there providing a sense of comfort. I've always loved the Christmas tree being up. I used to beg my mom "Can we go get the tree TONIGHT???" And she'd be like "Let's go tomorrow." Then, tomorrow would come and I'd say "Tonight?" She'd sigh and be like "Alright....let's go (get this over with!)." I get it...now as an adult who is exhausted after work, but I still get excited and a burst of energy when I think about putting it up. I love the store windows decorated, I love the city streets decorated, I love the entire feeling December provides, all leading up to Christmas. I love going to church and feeling comfort there, with the advent candles and talking about Jesus's birth...and hearing about a live nativity with camels! Real-life camels! How amazing. And to add to all of this, I get to go out to stores and find perfect gifts for my family and friends. I love this! And TJ Maxx and Home Goods I can thank for providing me with those perfect gifts!
However, this year I seem to have gone broke. Here I am, still 5 days from payday, and I'm thinking "Crap, what will I pay for gas with...my business account, my personal account, or my checking account back home that I never use? Hmmm." I hate that. I hate being worried about money. But, I think I've figured it out. Moving into my new, amazing loft has come with a hefty price tag. Not only is rent $200 more a month, I pay for laundry and I have had (HAD? right...who is forcing me??) to buy some furniture and items (new tv, awesome chair, entertainment center, chest for the bathroom, stools for the island, area rug...shall I continue? NO...because no one is sympathizing with me!) So, when it came to me getting away from my selfish shopping, I went a little broke. That's ok because I got a nice present (not really, but it is nice timing) from my car loan saying I could skip a payment this month...yippee!!! Also, I'll be collecting some pretty coin here in a couple of weeks for the many paintings I've been doing. Double YIPPEE! So, no worries family and friends, I'll be getting all of you taken care of just in time for a grand ol' Christmas! Wrapping has been my duty lately and to say the least...it's not amazing. :(
Oh, and next week, I'm having a holiday/Christmas break/"loft"-warming celebration and having around 25-30 people over for drinks and food...so, I gotta stock up there, too! I can't wait though...I hardly ever host and I'm so excited to have all of my friends over. It's pretty exciting to see all of the people who are attending because it's such a great feeling to know your friends put it on the priority list during such a busy season. And to those who can't come, I'm not mad atcha...I wish you could come but I know it's also "Tis the season to be attend every DANG holiday party in town!" Seasons Greetings, all!
However, this year I seem to have gone broke. Here I am, still 5 days from payday, and I'm thinking "Crap, what will I pay for gas with...my business account, my personal account, or my checking account back home that I never use? Hmmm." I hate that. I hate being worried about money. But, I think I've figured it out. Moving into my new, amazing loft has come with a hefty price tag. Not only is rent $200 more a month, I pay for laundry and I have had (HAD? right...who is forcing me??) to buy some furniture and items (new tv, awesome chair, entertainment center, chest for the bathroom, stools for the island, area rug...shall I continue? NO...because no one is sympathizing with me!) So, when it came to me getting away from my selfish shopping, I went a little broke. That's ok because I got a nice present (not really, but it is nice timing) from my car loan saying I could skip a payment this month...yippee!!! Also, I'll be collecting some pretty coin here in a couple of weeks for the many paintings I've been doing. Double YIPPEE! So, no worries family and friends, I'll be getting all of you taken care of just in time for a grand ol' Christmas! Wrapping has been my duty lately and to say the least...it's not amazing. :(
Oh, and next week, I'm having a holiday/Christmas break/"loft"-warming celebration and having around 25-30 people over for drinks and food...so, I gotta stock up there, too! I can't wait though...I hardly ever host and I'm so excited to have all of my friends over. It's pretty exciting to see all of the people who are attending because it's such a great feeling to know your friends put it on the priority list during such a busy season. And to those who can't come, I'm not mad atcha...I wish you could come but I know it's also "Tis the season to be attend every DANG holiday party in town!" Seasons Greetings, all!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Grape Nuts
Mmmm...nutty. Actually, where does that name even come from?! (Yes, I know, ended in a preposition...sue me!) Grape Nuts are a favorite of mine; they are terrific and filling for a breakfast treat, and tons of fiber so you know what that means!!
Anyway, all cereals should really take notes from Grape Nuts. They package their cereal in a REALISTIC box by filling it FULL with the product...not leaving 1/3 of it for "air"...for cushion! Yea right. Also, Grape Nuts (GN) puts that full bag in a smaller box for better storage and, as stated above, it's realistic...no false advertising. I've never understood why chips and cereal are packaged with so much empty space for air. More cereals...rather, more FOOD products should take note here...GN definitely does it right and they're even a spectacular cereal. Not to mention, GN takes forever to get soggy from milk, a BIG BONUS! I think I'll go have some right now...jk...I'm already full from a white chocolate mocha! Tis the season!
Anyway, all cereals should really take notes from Grape Nuts. They package their cereal in a REALISTIC box by filling it FULL with the product...not leaving 1/3 of it for "air"...for cushion! Yea right. Also, Grape Nuts (GN) puts that full bag in a smaller box for better storage and, as stated above, it's realistic...no false advertising. I've never understood why chips and cereal are packaged with so much empty space for air. More cereals...rather, more FOOD products should take note here...GN definitely does it right and they're even a spectacular cereal. Not to mention, GN takes forever to get soggy from milk, a BIG BONUS! I think I'll go have some right now...jk...I'm already full from a white chocolate mocha! Tis the season!
Monday, October 25, 2010
And this year's costume IS....
Sookie Stackhouse! But not just ANY Sook, it's the waitress at Merlotte's Sook! Adorned with 2 fang marks on my neck, too. I love the show, duh, and I thought this would be a VERY easy costume (bought the shirt and apron at Hot Topic for a total of $40)...not to mention, I can wear the t-shirt after Halloween, and I can use the apron at work for my art supplies. DOUBLE SCORE for me.Only thing left is a blond wig. I need to get a decent one, not a big nasty matted one because that is all I seem to find. I'm going to throw on some pantyhose (yes, I know, granny!) and wear running shoes and be set. I wanted a little name tag, too...and even some "flair" for my apron, like a button that says "Sookie is MINE!" -Bill C.
Ohhh, Halloween how I love thee...it's so fun and so many people get in the spirit. I love trick or treaters, I love pumpkins, I love bonfires and hay rides, and I don't mind an occasional scare but I can't get bold enough to say I "love" haunted houses. Ugh..no. Never. That's like saying I love to eat *$@%. NEVER!
Well, happy haunting to all of you....please feel free to share your costume choices for Halloween 2010!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Saying goodbye
So...
I had a very difficult experience this week...one that I've never had before. But what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger, right?! I suppose. No, actually, I really do agree with that saying.
For a year or so now I have truly been considering my dog's age and health and wondering when you know it's the right time for euthanasia. I didn't really know if her pottying problems were her Cushing's or her getting back at me for being gone long days, or what. I talked to a few people (who run Rescues around the midwest) and they all pretty much said it is her age starting to show. No, they didn't tell me "It's her age, put her down!" but it's nice to get some advice, and not from a vet who may or may not be trying to keep your dog alive just to pump it full of meds and tests to make $. So, after a few bad nights I just realized no dog is choosing to lay in their cage, in urine, with a #2 in their water bowl. So I spoke to the vet, and I decided it was time.
Let me just say, as a mom to Tana (my 12 year old French Bulldog), I had some rough ROUGH times in the past few years, but nothing nearly as rough as choosing to do the responsible "mom" thing and stay with her for part of her euthanasia. When I arrived, I felt strong and told the vet I wanted to stay. She began to explain the process and I broke down. I decided to stay for just the sedation, not the actual euthanasia. Bad choice. HORRIBLE choice. I sat in a small room with my dog who was a zombie and couldn't even breathe because she was so sedated, so I had to prop her mouth open with my hand. She couldn't move and she couldn't breathe and I bawled and bawled! Awful! I hate that I chose to stay and see her like that, BUT, it shouldn't have been easy for me since I made the decision. It shouldn't be easy because more people would do it way too often. I felt I owed it to my doggie, Tana, to stay with her so she felt loved and safe.
I bawled for a while and had to carry out the leash with no dog attached to it....on to a busy street corner where cars were at the light as I crossed and I probably made them sad just by them seeing me bawling and walking with a dog-less leash! Sorry to anyone who saw me! That's exactly why I didn't want a friend to go with me...I didn't want to make anyone else sad because of my situation. I wanted to be alone. So I was. It was sad to come home that night and see her cage and bed and dishes. I still wake up each morning and think "I better get on some shoes to take out Tana." It'll take time but I know she wasn't happy.
If you want to remember you dog in the happiest way, don't stay for sedation if you ever have to (unfortunately) euthanize your dog! :(
I had a very difficult experience this week...one that I've never had before. But what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger, right?! I suppose. No, actually, I really do agree with that saying.
For a year or so now I have truly been considering my dog's age and health and wondering when you know it's the right time for euthanasia. I didn't really know if her pottying problems were her Cushing's or her getting back at me for being gone long days, or what. I talked to a few people (who run Rescues around the midwest) and they all pretty much said it is her age starting to show. No, they didn't tell me "It's her age, put her down!" but it's nice to get some advice, and not from a vet who may or may not be trying to keep your dog alive just to pump it full of meds and tests to make $. So, after a few bad nights I just realized no dog is choosing to lay in their cage, in urine, with a #2 in their water bowl. So I spoke to the vet, and I decided it was time.
Let me just say, as a mom to Tana (my 12 year old French Bulldog), I had some rough ROUGH times in the past few years, but nothing nearly as rough as choosing to do the responsible "mom" thing and stay with her for part of her euthanasia. When I arrived, I felt strong and told the vet I wanted to stay. She began to explain the process and I broke down. I decided to stay for just the sedation, not the actual euthanasia. Bad choice. HORRIBLE choice. I sat in a small room with my dog who was a zombie and couldn't even breathe because she was so sedated, so I had to prop her mouth open with my hand. She couldn't move and she couldn't breathe and I bawled and bawled! Awful! I hate that I chose to stay and see her like that, BUT, it shouldn't have been easy for me since I made the decision. It shouldn't be easy because more people would do it way too often. I felt I owed it to my doggie, Tana, to stay with her so she felt loved and safe.
I bawled for a while and had to carry out the leash with no dog attached to it....on to a busy street corner where cars were at the light as I crossed and I probably made them sad just by them seeing me bawling and walking with a dog-less leash! Sorry to anyone who saw me! That's exactly why I didn't want a friend to go with me...I didn't want to make anyone else sad because of my situation. I wanted to be alone. So I was. It was sad to come home that night and see her cage and bed and dishes. I still wake up each morning and think "I better get on some shoes to take out Tana." It'll take time but I know she wasn't happy.
If you want to remember you dog in the happiest way, don't stay for sedation if you ever have to (unfortunately) euthanize your dog! :(
Saturday, September 18, 2010
"Want Kids: Maybe"....Maybe? What does that even mean?
Ok, so this question has recently become a part of my life due to the recent membership to eharmony. I guess I don't get why "maybe" is one of the answer choices. What does that even mean? Maybe I'll have a kid....if I feel like it after we date for a few years and maybe I won't because I want to tease you a little bit into dating me when I really don't have any desire to have children. I think it's basically an unfair answer, but hello Allison..when did life become fair? (Or when was it EVER fair?! Wake up, sister.)
And it's funny that I'm even typing this today because just lastnight I must have received a sign from God because as I've been wondering this, I read it in the Glamour magazine I've had sitting on my end table for a month now, waiting for me to finish. So I picked it up on a lazy Friday night (after a 2 hour nap!) and thumbed through it. How random of me to actually read an article, but it mentioned this in one part. And here are the answers some guys responded with:
Steve: "The bigger the net, the more fish you'll catch. If men come out and say no or yes about something so important, they cut their prospects way down. To know where he stands, bring up the subject in a casual way. Talk about your nieces and nephews, or share a childhood experience. Discuss kids as a subject, not a goal, and pay attention to his reaction."
Morreale: "It means he wants kids--when he finds the right person. You women just say, "I want a baby!" Men aren't like that. For us, it's "Well, maybe if I find the right girl, I'll start a family."
Sheffield: "It means 'Kids: very likely,' but he probably prefers to tread lightly. He doesn't want to know the names you've picked out or the best school districts and summer camps. That kind of detail can feel like a job interview. It stresses a guy out if he can sense that you're on a tight schedule and looking for him to check off the 'kids' box."
So, I clearly see 3 different opinions here which gets me even more confused! Why can't guys just check yes or no and quit making this so complicated. I know, at the ripe age of 31, I want a guy who wants kids...so, if you are on a dating site and say "maybe" then I'm most likely not giving it even a glimmer of a chance. So, if your "maybe" means "yes" at ALL, then you've just eliminated yourself from my future. :)
And it's funny that I'm even typing this today because just lastnight I must have received a sign from God because as I've been wondering this, I read it in the Glamour magazine I've had sitting on my end table for a month now, waiting for me to finish. So I picked it up on a lazy Friday night (after a 2 hour nap!) and thumbed through it. How random of me to actually read an article, but it mentioned this in one part. And here are the answers some guys responded with:
Steve: "The bigger the net, the more fish you'll catch. If men come out and say no or yes about something so important, they cut their prospects way down. To know where he stands, bring up the subject in a casual way. Talk about your nieces and nephews, or share a childhood experience. Discuss kids as a subject, not a goal, and pay attention to his reaction."
Morreale: "It means he wants kids--when he finds the right person. You women just say, "I want a baby!" Men aren't like that. For us, it's "Well, maybe if I find the right girl, I'll start a family."
Sheffield: "It means 'Kids: very likely,' but he probably prefers to tread lightly. He doesn't want to know the names you've picked out or the best school districts and summer camps. That kind of detail can feel like a job interview. It stresses a guy out if he can sense that you're on a tight schedule and looking for him to check off the 'kids' box."
So, I clearly see 3 different opinions here which gets me even more confused! Why can't guys just check yes or no and quit making this so complicated. I know, at the ripe age of 31, I want a guy who wants kids...so, if you are on a dating site and say "maybe" then I'm most likely not giving it even a glimmer of a chance. So, if your "maybe" means "yes" at ALL, then you've just eliminated yourself from my future. :)
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
I now see the "reason" this was meant to be
You all are well aware of the saying "everything happens for a reason", but usually, we don't know what the reason is. And, sometimes we never really do. I recently discovered the reason why many things have happened in my career the past few years the way they did. About a year ago, I was asked by a friend's cousin to join a board for a local not for profit arts organization. I accepted, but knew nothing about the organization so I rightly so felt awkward being on a board of "directors". I've learned about it, attended meetings, and different events. At the first event, I met several people but saw another art teacher from my school district who is basically a celebrity in our district and the arts world. I introduced myself and he instantly loved that I was from our school district and sitting on the board. I found out he sat on the same board and was still very supportive of this organization and he was proud to have me represent our school district.
We talked all night, got a picture taken together at the gala, and he introduced me to everyone. Wait a second, PAUSE, and let me back up. The reason I applied for the district in which I work is because my childhood best friend was already working there and told me about an opening. Upon my hiring, I was required to enroll in GCL classes (umm, GCL stands FOR NOTHING! Seriously, it's an acronym with no meaning...what?!). One of the 3 instructors was an art teacher at the high school. We obviously clicked with our subject areas, and we built a friendship upon that initial click. Ok, back to this summer...
So, the organization's president retired and they threw him a retirement party at a local restaurant. I attended and spoke with Larry (the celebrity guy from the 1st paragraph) for a lengthy amount of time about his plans for retirement in the next few years. He laid out his plans, and I mentioned that I'd love to learn from him in these next few years, then apply for the opening his retirement will create. He thought it was a grand plan and then he left. That was the last time I spoke to him because in just a short week or two, Larry collapsed at church and passed away.
As I found out this devastating news, I thought "now what?!" I couldn't help but think that I wasn't going to have the time with Larry to learn from his greatness in order to replace him upon retirement. My GCL friend and I had lunch after the funeral and such, and he told me he was asked to be department chair. I congratulated him, but knew all along he was the logical choice. We then generally discussed the department and the moving around of positions. He mentioned the opening to me in a very neutral way, basically informing me of what was going to happen. I then realized, I need to inquire about the open position. I thought long and hard and talked to several people. They all said the same thing "do it! Why not?" I wasn't ready to leave my family at my school, or all the things in which I was involved. Then I thought "why am I hesitating? If I apply and get the position, it was meant to be. If I apply and don't get the position, then I'm still where I was and no harm is done." So I applied....with the risk of hurting my administrator or offending her because it appeared I was seeking out a new position. No way...not the case.
I called her up, told her, she was very supportive. I applied, interviewed with flying colors (although, I don't really understand the foundation of that saying!), and was asked back for a 2nd interview, this time with the principal. I interviewed, and the first thing he saw was I went to University of Illinois. He was from Decatur. My family is there! We already had the bond. I was offered the position at the close of the interview. I gladly accepted. It all made sense. It all was clear when I sat back and thought about it. Every part of the process was leading me towards this job...the job I have wanted since before I began my certification.
And wait...after I accepted, my GCL friend told me when the excitement of the passing of Larry settled down, he thought "what are we going to do to fill this position!?" and I came to mind. He told the principal I was the one he wanted but didn't know if I'd apply. It was crazy to me to hear this because he never once seemed to be biased or encourage me to apply...we were just on the same brain wave and it just shows this was meant to be.
I'm very thankful I'm where I am professionally, and finally feel like a teacher who enjoys her job. It feels awesome to finally understand such a long process of events.
We talked all night, got a picture taken together at the gala, and he introduced me to everyone. Wait a second, PAUSE, and let me back up. The reason I applied for the district in which I work is because my childhood best friend was already working there and told me about an opening. Upon my hiring, I was required to enroll in GCL classes (umm, GCL stands FOR NOTHING! Seriously, it's an acronym with no meaning...what?!). One of the 3 instructors was an art teacher at the high school. We obviously clicked with our subject areas, and we built a friendship upon that initial click. Ok, back to this summer...
So, the organization's president retired and they threw him a retirement party at a local restaurant. I attended and spoke with Larry (the celebrity guy from the 1st paragraph) for a lengthy amount of time about his plans for retirement in the next few years. He laid out his plans, and I mentioned that I'd love to learn from him in these next few years, then apply for the opening his retirement will create. He thought it was a grand plan and then he left. That was the last time I spoke to him because in just a short week or two, Larry collapsed at church and passed away.
As I found out this devastating news, I thought "now what?!" I couldn't help but think that I wasn't going to have the time with Larry to learn from his greatness in order to replace him upon retirement. My GCL friend and I had lunch after the funeral and such, and he told me he was asked to be department chair. I congratulated him, but knew all along he was the logical choice. We then generally discussed the department and the moving around of positions. He mentioned the opening to me in a very neutral way, basically informing me of what was going to happen. I then realized, I need to inquire about the open position. I thought long and hard and talked to several people. They all said the same thing "do it! Why not?" I wasn't ready to leave my family at my school, or all the things in which I was involved. Then I thought "why am I hesitating? If I apply and get the position, it was meant to be. If I apply and don't get the position, then I'm still where I was and no harm is done." So I applied....with the risk of hurting my administrator or offending her because it appeared I was seeking out a new position. No way...not the case.
I called her up, told her, she was very supportive. I applied, interviewed with flying colors (although, I don't really understand the foundation of that saying!), and was asked back for a 2nd interview, this time with the principal. I interviewed, and the first thing he saw was I went to University of Illinois. He was from Decatur. My family is there! We already had the bond. I was offered the position at the close of the interview. I gladly accepted. It all made sense. It all was clear when I sat back and thought about it. Every part of the process was leading me towards this job...the job I have wanted since before I began my certification.
And wait...after I accepted, my GCL friend told me when the excitement of the passing of Larry settled down, he thought "what are we going to do to fill this position!?" and I came to mind. He told the principal I was the one he wanted but didn't know if I'd apply. It was crazy to me to hear this because he never once seemed to be biased or encourage me to apply...we were just on the same brain wave and it just shows this was meant to be.
I'm very thankful I'm where I am professionally, and finally feel like a teacher who enjoys her job. It feels awesome to finally understand such a long process of events.
Monday, September 13, 2010
All I gotta say is DANG!
I've recently encountered a few DANG moments and I have got to blog about them. They are similar, yet very different as you soon will see (or read).
I've been searching for a place to rent, but I am always looking at things for sale, too. Regardless (not irregardless....that is not a word people!), the situation is the same here that made me say DANG! Ok, picture me rollin'...well, scrollin, through the listings on Craigslist and any other realty website. Here it is...WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU EVER TRY TO SELL A HOUSE OR RENT AN APARTMENT ONLINE WITHOUT PICTURES?!?! Oh my gosh, it's ridiculous. It's truly all based on looks. No, your description of "amazing" "breathtaking" "won't be available for long" do nothing for the actual leasing or buying of the place. I get it...your place is basically heaven on earth, and if so, then why are you leaving it? It's just that we all want to see what it's like. I'm definitely a very visual person, but I need some type of idea what it looks like. I don't want some 70's or 80's kitchen to match a 60's tiled bathroom. You may say "quaint" or "lots of charm in this gem" but give me the pictures and let me decide for myself. I would soooo appreciate it!
Secondly, how on earth does any sane or logical person truly believe that he will get any type of date on an online dating site without a picture?! He can't be sane then because I'm pretty sure that is the definition of insane. Then, to request to skip all of the guided communication steps and skip to emailing, still having no idea of who you are speaking to...just not my idea of fun. I archive those folks really quickly if they can't at least post 1 picture of them. And no, I'm not completely vain or basing things on looks, but if I join a dating site then I'm obviously doing it for ME and a physical attraction is important to me. There, I said it, and I'm proud of it. :)
Moral of this blog: Post a picture online, please. It saves us all a lot of trouble. Tons of thanks.
I've been searching for a place to rent, but I am always looking at things for sale, too. Regardless (not irregardless....that is not a word people!), the situation is the same here that made me say DANG! Ok, picture me rollin'...well, scrollin, through the listings on Craigslist and any other realty website. Here it is...WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU EVER TRY TO SELL A HOUSE OR RENT AN APARTMENT ONLINE WITHOUT PICTURES?!?! Oh my gosh, it's ridiculous. It's truly all based on looks. No, your description of "amazing" "breathtaking" "won't be available for long" do nothing for the actual leasing or buying of the place. I get it...your place is basically heaven on earth, and if so, then why are you leaving it? It's just that we all want to see what it's like. I'm definitely a very visual person, but I need some type of idea what it looks like. I don't want some 70's or 80's kitchen to match a 60's tiled bathroom. You may say "quaint" or "lots of charm in this gem" but give me the pictures and let me decide for myself. I would soooo appreciate it!
Secondly, how on earth does any sane or logical person truly believe that he will get any type of date on an online dating site without a picture?! He can't be sane then because I'm pretty sure that is the definition of insane. Then, to request to skip all of the guided communication steps and skip to emailing, still having no idea of who you are speaking to...just not my idea of fun. I archive those folks really quickly if they can't at least post 1 picture of them. And no, I'm not completely vain or basing things on looks, but if I join a dating site then I'm obviously doing it for ME and a physical attraction is important to me. There, I said it, and I'm proud of it. :)
Moral of this blog: Post a picture online, please. It saves us all a lot of trouble. Tons of thanks.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Puppy Fever
I completely have puppy fever right now, and I can safely say it's all thanks to 2 friends who have just gotten new puppies in the past week! First, last weekend, a good friend and practically a brother was in town from California to visit. I stopped by the Labor Day cookout to visit and low and behold, I walk in to find a CUTE CUTE CUTE English Bulldog! I cuddled with him all day and couldn't stay away.
Then, I go back home this weekend and stay with a different friend. This friend just bought a house and her dog was having some separation anxiety from the previous living situation, so she went and bought a Weimy! This little cutie was silver and so adorable. I mean, how can puppies be so cute?! He is amazingly puppylicious.
So, all this puppyness has definitely upped my own puppy fever to probably a 9. Now, don't get me near a shelter or puppies for sale because I WILL walk away with one, if not 2. Just kidding, but really, I'm having big time puppy love and need to keep my distance from them or I'll melt and end up with a family of dogs!
Then, I go back home this weekend and stay with a different friend. This friend just bought a house and her dog was having some separation anxiety from the previous living situation, so she went and bought a Weimy! This little cutie was silver and so adorable. I mean, how can puppies be so cute?! He is amazingly puppylicious.
So, all this puppyness has definitely upped my own puppy fever to probably a 9. Now, don't get me near a shelter or puppies for sale because I WILL walk away with one, if not 2. Just kidding, but really, I'm having big time puppy love and need to keep my distance from them or I'll melt and end up with a family of dogs!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
I'm becoming my own Brett Favre
So, I realize I am becoming a version of Brett Favre, but way younger of course. I say this because it has been weeks and weeks since I blogged! That's just ridiculous and inexcusable. So, I'm coming out of retirement and starting fresh. Yes, I mean it. Even if they are short and sweet, that's ok, I need to stay committed to this blog and make it what I originally intended for it to be.
I got to the Rathskeller tonight and join some friends for a going away party. I don't know what it is, but I cannot get the sauer kraut smell out of my nostrils. I KNOW there isn't any in my trash or kitchen, however, I still smell that wretched stench. By the way, it was hands down the most beautiful night for a bier garten in the midwest. *Note: if you didn't read my post about my faves around town, Rathskeller was one of the top spots mentioned...check it out! Woot Woot!
Ok, so this is my official coming out party....well, out of retirement...UNOFFICIAL retirement, that is! I promise to be a good blogger and reliable giver of the Daily Dang.
I got to the Rathskeller tonight and join some friends for a going away party. I don't know what it is, but I cannot get the sauer kraut smell out of my nostrils. I KNOW there isn't any in my trash or kitchen, however, I still smell that wretched stench. By the way, it was hands down the most beautiful night for a bier garten in the midwest. *Note: if you didn't read my post about my faves around town, Rathskeller was one of the top spots mentioned...check it out! Woot Woot!
Ok, so this is my official coming out party....well, out of retirement...UNOFFICIAL retirement, that is! I promise to be a good blogger and reliable giver of the Daily Dang.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Commitment-phobe
What's the technical term I'm searching for, folks? I don't know. But apparently, I am a commitment-phobe. Why, you may ask? Well, it's not about relationships with men....no no, quite the contrary. I love men, well, the right ones. And really, have I met any of the right ones? Of course. The right ones for that period in time. However, I'm talking blog-phobe. I wanted to give short entries about daily ridiculous things I observed, and I can't even commit to it. They don't have to be long entries, just something ridiculous that is an observation. Such as, this has been a burning issue with me for a long time and kind of prompted my blog "Daily Dang".
Cyclists. I get it and I love it....GO GREEN....save $ and the environment! And I love riding my bike to get exercise while saving money. However, the rules of the cyclist pretty much "p me off". Ok, so you want to be treated with the same respect cars are? Driving in lanes, using arm "signals" (not blinkers, but still), etc. BUT....you don't want to have the same rules for traffic signals? BS. I simply say BS! If you want to ride in my lane and slow me down, then by golly, you WILL stop at the red light or stop sign and WAIT til it is your legal turn to proceed. I hate that. They gripe gripe gripe about not being treated equally (or so I ASSUME they gripe because I must have derived that from SOME truth!! he he), and then you go all high and mighty on us and ignore the Rules of the Road. Hello, I took Drivers Ed in high school and I passed with flying colors. That booklet is mandatory for all.
So, if you want to ride with the big dogs (cars), you better run with the big dogs and their rules!
Anyway, back to commitment-phobia. It's not that I'm scared of committing to a daily blog, I just haven't. Isn't that what most people say about being noncommittal to relationships..."I just haven't yet...it's not a phobia!"It's not. And actually, I'm going to be more mindful of committing to this baby I've made. It's time to grow up and be committed to what I've started. From here on out, I'm a blogger...daily, hopefully. :)
Cyclists. I get it and I love it....GO GREEN....save $ and the environment! And I love riding my bike to get exercise while saving money. However, the rules of the cyclist pretty much "p me off". Ok, so you want to be treated with the same respect cars are? Driving in lanes, using arm "signals" (not blinkers, but still), etc. BUT....you don't want to have the same rules for traffic signals? BS. I simply say BS! If you want to ride in my lane and slow me down, then by golly, you WILL stop at the red light or stop sign and WAIT til it is your legal turn to proceed. I hate that. They gripe gripe gripe about not being treated equally (or so I ASSUME they gripe because I must have derived that from SOME truth!! he he), and then you go all high and mighty on us and ignore the Rules of the Road. Hello, I took Drivers Ed in high school and I passed with flying colors. That booklet is mandatory for all.
So, if you want to ride with the big dogs (cars), you better run with the big dogs and their rules!
Anyway, back to commitment-phobia. It's not that I'm scared of committing to a daily blog, I just haven't. Isn't that what most people say about being noncommittal to relationships..."I just haven't yet...it's not a phobia!"It's not. And actually, I'm going to be more mindful of committing to this baby I've made. It's time to grow up and be committed to what I've started. From here on out, I'm a blogger...daily, hopefully. :)
Monday, July 19, 2010
Pessimist vs. Optimist
Ok, so does being a "realist" tend to fall closer towards the pessimist side of the scale? That's what I like to think I am...a realist. I look at the reality of a situation and the reality of a REAL outcome. I don't like to dream about happy endings, because I believe there will be sad endings and there will be happy endings...you know, the whole balancing out that our universe does. So, if I don't dream about happy endings, then I won't be so extra disappointed when a sad ending rears its ugly head. AND....I'll be so extra excited and appreciative when a happy ending surprises me! See..that's not a negative or pessimistic view on things. Nor is it optimistic, just realistic.
Ok, so why I'm bringing this up is because I've watched 3 episodes of the Bachelorette this year. Tonight, last week, and the very first one just to see all the bachelors and judge who she should keep based on physical appearance and first impressions. That's fun. Anyway, I'm just always baffled at how everyone always happens to have bonds and "strong feelings that have never happened this fast before" every season. So that must be Hollywood's touch. I'm sitting here watching her splash around in the water with Roberto and Chris, on different days of course, but totally being lovey-dovey with both like they are her boyfriends. I just don't get it. How can she look at both of them like partners of hers in a relationship without feeling guilty for "cheating" on the other? Is it because it's socially acceptable on the show because that's what it's about? I guess my morals step in there and that's why I'm not the Bachelorette. I mean, that IS the only reason I haven't been asked to be the Bachelorette. :)
I just don't get how they honestly feel that proposals are even near necessary or appropriate at the "end of the show". And don't GET me started about the invitations "should you choose to fore go your individual rooms, please use this key to share the fantasy suite..." This little sloot is spending the night with both guys so far, and shows her taking off Roberto's shirt in the room. And now Chris is saying he loves her! Wow. I'm impressed....she has gotten 2 of 3 guys to fall in love with her in a few weeks or a couple months..whatever the duration of the show is. Ahhh, I've gotten sucked in even though I've heard the spoilers, I'm here, watching the Bachelorette on a Monday night and blogging about it. If I'm not a sucker, then I don't know who is.
p.s. Roberto is H-O-T. And I've called that one from the moment he stepped out of the limo, THEN to find out he is a baseball player and lives in Charleston, SC?!? Wow...they are speaking my language now.
Ok, so why I'm bringing this up is because I've watched 3 episodes of the Bachelorette this year. Tonight, last week, and the very first one just to see all the bachelors and judge who she should keep based on physical appearance and first impressions. That's fun. Anyway, I'm just always baffled at how everyone always happens to have bonds and "strong feelings that have never happened this fast before" every season. So that must be Hollywood's touch. I'm sitting here watching her splash around in the water with Roberto and Chris, on different days of course, but totally being lovey-dovey with both like they are her boyfriends. I just don't get it. How can she look at both of them like partners of hers in a relationship without feeling guilty for "cheating" on the other? Is it because it's socially acceptable on the show because that's what it's about? I guess my morals step in there and that's why I'm not the Bachelorette. I mean, that IS the only reason I haven't been asked to be the Bachelorette. :)
I just don't get how they honestly feel that proposals are even near necessary or appropriate at the "end of the show". And don't GET me started about the invitations "should you choose to fore go your individual rooms, please use this key to share the fantasy suite..." This little sloot is spending the night with both guys so far, and shows her taking off Roberto's shirt in the room. And now Chris is saying he loves her! Wow. I'm impressed....she has gotten 2 of 3 guys to fall in love with her in a few weeks or a couple months..whatever the duration of the show is. Ahhh, I've gotten sucked in even though I've heard the spoilers, I'm here, watching the Bachelorette on a Monday night and blogging about it. If I'm not a sucker, then I don't know who is.
p.s. Roberto is H-O-T. And I've called that one from the moment he stepped out of the limo, THEN to find out he is a baseball player and lives in Charleston, SC?!? Wow...they are speaking my language now.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
My Local Faves
I'm going to compile a list of my faves in the city (Indianapolis) because I want to, and because maybe someone out there wants to know!
Breakfast spot: Hoaglin's To Go (on Mass Ave)
...you MUST get the Red Velvet Pancakes, but they are only a special every few months. But, if you hear they are having them, GO! And go fast because they are fabulous and they will spoil you with pancakes because you will never want plain ones again. They're phenomenal!
(this is a pic taken by ME after indulging in 1/2 of the pancakes...I had to stop there, and believe me, I felt guilty leaving such amazing-ness for the trash can.)
Sweet Treat: The Flying Cupcake (gourmet!!!)
...they specialize in terrific-ness but specifically, the Red Velvet Elvis is their claim to fame, and my personal fave. I can't seem to venture from it! I got a dozen of these for a Bachelorette Party last year and they were definitely a huge hit! They have all kinds, but I'm starting to notice a trend with Red Velvet in my life...
(the bottom right is my baby, Elvis...red velvet with chocolate chips and cream cheese icing!)
Pizza: Bazbeaux (by far!)
...I've been told, though, that there is some pizza that is better. However, my Bazbeaux's treats me right. I get green olives, bacon, and mushroom and have enough for lunch the next day, too! But I've seen that Ale Emporium deep dish pizza and it looks PRETTTTTTY amazing. I'm willing to test it out...for this contest of my faves, of course.
Outdoor bar: Rathskeller (for the Biergarten) and Monkey's Tale
...we all know the Rathskeller is awesome for outdoor drinking and music, but the Monkey's Tale is a close 2nd because it's a nice deck area, low key, not pretentious, and the bands they book are pretty fab for being locals or small. Also, MT has good bucket prices!
(old pic, but it shows you a little of the biergarten!)
Concert arena: White River Park
...what's better than being downtown Indy, but not feeling like you are downtown, and being given a lawnchair (that sits close to the ground) as you enter the venue, in addition to no service fees on your ticket costs during certain times of the year?? It's grand, folks...GRAND. And I'm awaiting Needtobreathe in just over a month. Pure awesome-ness.
Beer: Anything Leinenkugel's
...but...it seems no one carries the nectar of the gods in this town (that is, a bar doesn't carry it). Huge disappointment. I love Leine's and I can't findy. :)
Neighborhood: Village of West Clay (for dreamers)
...have you seen Pleasantville in Indianapolis? It has arrived. It's amazing, too. I love driving through this area because it's a little unbelievable. The houses remind me of modern-day Charleston, SC with the colors and the architecture. I love it...it makes me happy to drive around and just SEE.
Mexican Food: Qdoba, and I'm serious.
...nothing else to say but CHICKEN NACHOS, chips on the side, black beans, hot salsa, sour cream, cheese, add guac....all on a rich puddle of queso! AND...get the rewards card or whatever the Qdoba card is; it totally pays off! Like every 10th meal or so is FREE!
Scallops: Peterson's
...these little lovelies are served on apple and mushroom risotto and are unbeatable! Oceanaire? No. Agio? No. Anywhere? NO! Plus, you can get a great deal at restaurant.com and get a huge discount. Do it.
Cozy Bar: Chatham Tap (on Mass Ave)
...it just has a nice touch. Yes, it's tiny, but that also adds to the coziness. I've liked this place since my first visit, and even visited it during the World Cup. It's just quaint and cute, and the food is good, too! (And the Smithwick's!)
Local Artist: Gayla Hodson
...she is also a really awesome person. She gave me some advice when I was starting out, but that was only because I became such a fan of her's and so she met with me to discuss how to start my business. She is great, and her art is so fun!! I'm trying to save up to buy one. Check her out, y'all!
Movie Place: IMA "Summer Nights" or Movie on the Lawn
...it's awesome, baby! You take a picnic and beverages of choice (although, alcoholic bevs aren't allowed any more, but the security guys told us they'd allow it in b/c if they don't, people will stop coming and their alcohol is expensive!), and lay on a blanket...sprawled out on the grass! It's like an amphitheater with tiers of grass. And they show oldies but goodies like Ghostbusters (and had people in costumes and a band performing pre-show), and Dazed and Confused.
Table with a View: Shelby Street Cafe--Rooftop.
...this dining experience was superb. My mom and I went there last summer on a perfect night! We watched the sun set and felt the summer breeze as we drank some wine and shared dinners. Very cool place...VERY cool.
I hope you get to come to Indianapolis and experience some of the complete greatness we have here. YUM!
Breakfast spot: Hoaglin's To Go (on Mass Ave)
...you MUST get the Red Velvet Pancakes, but they are only a special every few months. But, if you hear they are having them, GO! And go fast because they are fabulous and they will spoil you with pancakes because you will never want plain ones again. They're phenomenal!
(this is a pic taken by ME after indulging in 1/2 of the pancakes...I had to stop there, and believe me, I felt guilty leaving such amazing-ness for the trash can.)...they specialize in terrific-ness but specifically, the Red Velvet Elvis is their claim to fame, and my personal fave. I can't seem to venture from it! I got a dozen of these for a Bachelorette Party last year and they were definitely a huge hit! They have all kinds, but I'm starting to notice a trend with Red Velvet in my life...
(the bottom right is my baby, Elvis...red velvet with chocolate chips and cream cheese icing!)...I've been told, though, that there is some pizza that is better. However, my Bazbeaux's treats me right. I get green olives, bacon, and mushroom and have enough for lunch the next day, too! But I've seen that Ale Emporium deep dish pizza and it looks PRETTTTTTY amazing. I'm willing to test it out...for this contest of my faves, of course.
Outdoor bar: Rathskeller (for the Biergarten) and Monkey's Tale
...we all know the Rathskeller is awesome for outdoor drinking and music, but the Monkey's Tale is a close 2nd because it's a nice deck area, low key, not pretentious, and the bands they book are pretty fab for being locals or small. Also, MT has good bucket prices!
(old pic, but it shows you a little of the biergarten!)...what's better than being downtown Indy, but not feeling like you are downtown, and being given a lawnchair (that sits close to the ground) as you enter the venue, in addition to no service fees on your ticket costs during certain times of the year?? It's grand, folks...GRAND. And I'm awaiting Needtobreathe in just over a month. Pure awesome-ness.
Beer: Anything Leinenkugel's
...but...it seems no one carries the nectar of the gods in this town (that is, a bar doesn't carry it). Huge disappointment. I love Leine's and I can't findy. :)
Neighborhood: Village of West Clay (for dreamers)
...have you seen Pleasantville in Indianapolis? It has arrived. It's amazing, too. I love driving through this area because it's a little unbelievable. The houses remind me of modern-day Charleston, SC with the colors and the architecture. I love it...it makes me happy to drive around and just SEE.
Mexican Food: Qdoba, and I'm serious.
...nothing else to say but CHICKEN NACHOS, chips on the side, black beans, hot salsa, sour cream, cheese, add guac....all on a rich puddle of queso! AND...get the rewards card or whatever the Qdoba card is; it totally pays off! Like every 10th meal or so is FREE!
Scallops: Peterson's
...these little lovelies are served on apple and mushroom risotto and are unbeatable! Oceanaire? No. Agio? No. Anywhere? NO! Plus, you can get a great deal at restaurant.com and get a huge discount. Do it.
Cozy Bar: Chatham Tap (on Mass Ave)
...it just has a nice touch. Yes, it's tiny, but that also adds to the coziness. I've liked this place since my first visit, and even visited it during the World Cup. It's just quaint and cute, and the food is good, too! (And the Smithwick's!)
Local Artist: Gayla Hodson
...she is also a really awesome person. She gave me some advice when I was starting out, but that was only because I became such a fan of her's and so she met with me to discuss how to start my business. She is great, and her art is so fun!! I'm trying to save up to buy one. Check her out, y'all!
Movie Place: IMA "Summer Nights" or Movie on the Lawn
...it's awesome, baby! You take a picnic and beverages of choice (although, alcoholic bevs aren't allowed any more, but the security guys told us they'd allow it in b/c if they don't, people will stop coming and their alcohol is expensive!), and lay on a blanket...sprawled out on the grass! It's like an amphitheater with tiers of grass. And they show oldies but goodies like Ghostbusters (and had people in costumes and a band performing pre-show), and Dazed and Confused.
Table with a View: Shelby Street Cafe--Rooftop.
...this dining experience was superb. My mom and I went there last summer on a perfect night! We watched the sun set and felt the summer breeze as we drank some wine and shared dinners. Very cool place...VERY cool.
I hope you get to come to Indianapolis and experience some of the complete greatness we have here. YUM!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Love Coach
Ok, so I'm sitting here, enjoying the weather in the 70's, back from a long weekend away, and I see this commercial....
"Text COUPLE to 21222" (or some number like that) and I swear it said this is what will happen:
"An expert will analyze your name and tell you your perfect match!" For real?
Also, it was $1.99 or (OR.....OR!!!!) $9.99 a month! Ok, so an expert Love Coach is going to analyze my name to tell me my future and best mate on the initial text, so why a monthly membership?! Ohhhh, what will they think of next?! Maybe something as ridiculous as 2 vampires making hateful love while the male twists the female's head 180 degrees during the love-making....nah, that'll never make telelvision. ;)
"Text COUPLE to 21222" (or some number like that) and I swear it said this is what will happen:
"An expert will analyze your name and tell you your perfect match!" For real?
Also, it was $1.99 or (OR.....OR!!!!) $9.99 a month! Ok, so an expert Love Coach is going to analyze my name to tell me my future and best mate on the initial text, so why a monthly membership?! Ohhhh, what will they think of next?! Maybe something as ridiculous as 2 vampires making hateful love while the male twists the female's head 180 degrees during the love-making....nah, that'll never make telelvision. ;)
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Not so much "Music to my ears"
You know what I can't stand? Well, a lot of things, let's be honest. As I type, one huge thing that I can't stand is when my dog gets obsessive about licking the CARPET the WOOL CARPET (well, rug). She licks so much that she gets herself right into a licking trance. So annoying, and she doesn't need to do it. Not only will she lick the wool rug, she'll lick any textile....her bed, the couch, a blanket nearby (which there never is b/c of this reason alone!)....it's gross. If I don't catch her right away, I'll see her bed later and it's soaked! Eww.
Anyway, something that seems like it should be "music to my ears" since it is indeed MUSIC, rather, it is NOT music to my ears is when people walk around with their cell phones on speaker to play the mp3 part of their phone! So, it's like their own personal radio but on BLAST so everyone around can (wrong word, HAS) to hear. A coworker friend of mine sometimes walks into the building in the morning with her phone blasting some song that is not my favorite :), and I call her out "Look, not everyone wants to hear that loud music at 7:45 am...that's what they make headphones for!" Now yes, I'm joking with her by exaggerating it, but I'm sure nuf making my point! She laughs and has some remark but then silences it. Maybe for a gift I'll buy her a pair of headphones because yes, I can hear her music waaaaaay down the hallway on many mornings.
So, I was on my way to Chicago a couple weeks ago. We stop at Arby's, and I go into the bathroom. I'm not lying...let me back up. First, as enter the parking lot, a huge Suburban has its front wheels up on the sidewalk/entrance to the building. Ridiculous...I should've taken a picture. I go into the bathroom and I hear offensively loud and not good music playing, I just assumed it was the overhead speakers. Nope. The girl next to me had her purse on the ground (disgusting) and had her cell phone blaring a song. I guess I don't get it. I love love love music, but can I go to the bathroom and grab some onion rings at Arby's without having it join me? Of course. So as I go to order the aforementioned onion rings, I got to see who belonged to the Suburban on the front step. There was a pizza party yes PIZZA (Little Caesar's to be exact) in the front part of the restaurant, complete with Walmart cupcakes. What part of this party was Arby's profiting from? Who knows. We got our grub and scrammed.
Moral...please, for the (non)listening pleasure of others, and for the sake of your ears to hear that music for years to come, turn....it.....down, dang! Or get headphones. Awesome, dude!
Anyway, something that seems like it should be "music to my ears" since it is indeed MUSIC, rather, it is NOT music to my ears is when people walk around with their cell phones on speaker to play the mp3 part of their phone! So, it's like their own personal radio but on BLAST so everyone around can (wrong word, HAS) to hear. A coworker friend of mine sometimes walks into the building in the morning with her phone blasting some song that is not my favorite :), and I call her out "Look, not everyone wants to hear that loud music at 7:45 am...that's what they make headphones for!" Now yes, I'm joking with her by exaggerating it, but I'm sure nuf making my point! She laughs and has some remark but then silences it. Maybe for a gift I'll buy her a pair of headphones because yes, I can hear her music waaaaaay down the hallway on many mornings.
So, I was on my way to Chicago a couple weeks ago. We stop at Arby's, and I go into the bathroom. I'm not lying...let me back up. First, as enter the parking lot, a huge Suburban has its front wheels up on the sidewalk/entrance to the building. Ridiculous...I should've taken a picture. I go into the bathroom and I hear offensively loud and not good music playing, I just assumed it was the overhead speakers. Nope. The girl next to me had her purse on the ground (disgusting) and had her cell phone blaring a song. I guess I don't get it. I love love love music, but can I go to the bathroom and grab some onion rings at Arby's without having it join me? Of course. So as I go to order the aforementioned onion rings, I got to see who belonged to the Suburban on the front step. There was a pizza party yes PIZZA (Little Caesar's to be exact) in the front part of the restaurant, complete with Walmart cupcakes. What part of this party was Arby's profiting from? Who knows. We got our grub and scrammed.
Moral...please, for the (non)listening pleasure of others, and for the sake of your ears to hear that music for years to come, turn....it.....down, dang! Or get headphones. Awesome, dude!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
DANG I'm sweaty!
Thanks to this little lady...
Dang she is good! If you don't know who she is or you can say "Oh yeah, she's from The Biggest Loser" then you don't know her enough. Check out the 30-Day Shred, THEN you'll really know Jillian Michaels.
See, I don't really know a lot about Jillian's resume, but I heard her say she used to do some type of agent work for others, then opened a gym or something and a former client from the agency had a hook-up when TBL was being thought of, so she got referred and now she is a huge star. That's usually how it works for the biz...it's all about who you know! I don't hate on it, I love on it...I think it's awesome to network and get referrals based on WHO you are because it's more genuine. Anyway, Jillian is my workout guru.
Last year, in January, I was feeling a bit cushioned by some extra "lbs" and made it my personal mission; I actually called it "MISSION: SHED 8" by the end of the month. I stuck to that (even through an illness spell) and I easily shed the 8 and even a couple extra. Of course, I changed my eating habits SLIGHTLY, just by cutting out some major carbs and white potatoes PERIOD. But, I know what I like to eat and I can't just permanently cut out cookies and cake and candy (the 3 awful yet wonderful C's), so I just did some moderation. My punishment if I hadn't shed the 8 was to not be able to drink diet pepsi at all til I lost the weight. It felt wonderful. I felt re-energized and loved my clothes just being more comfortable. I even had some jeans that were too big just because of a 20 minute daily workout and a few slight eating changes.
Yes, change is hard, but I'm telling you...this workout (30-Day Shred) WORKS! I get so bored at the gym or other videos, but this one is short and sweet...to the point! She doesn't let you rest, but changes everything up in the 3 circuits so you're doing short things and she's keeping you interested. I love being active and not feeling like it's a workout, so this is perfect. I highly recommend it, especially if you don't have a ton of time and want to shed some poundage and gain some muscle. I just completed day 4 and feel awesome..I actually think I'm going to do it again tonight! Double it up! It's great and makes me sweat like a piggy (and I'm not a sweater, well I mean a person who sweats, not a wool garment we wear in winter!).
Get this workout, it's cheap and completely effective! And stick to it. It's THIRTY DAYS, people, you can do it and you'll be happy you did.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Honest Scrap Award
The rules of this award are as follows:
1. Thank the person who nominated you for this award.
2. Copy the award & place it on your blog.
3. Link to the person who nominated you for this award.
4. Share 10 things about yourself.
5. Nominate 10 of your favorite bloggers for the award.
6. Post links to the blogs you nominate.
Well, here goes....my first "award" from Amy at Our Happy Married Life, and don't ask me how to make her blog a link because I don't know! Anyway, thanks Amy for giving me this award for being a new blogger. Problem is, I can't nominate 10 of my favorite bloggers because I don't even know TEN bloggers period!! But I can easily tell ten things about me me ME! Listen up...
1. I think I'm addicted (in a good way) to the sun. I just love it. It makes me happy and I feel so good soaking it up. It makes everything better, let's admit it, no matter how HOT it gets...we all pray for sun for special occasions, especially outdoor occasions. I just love it and crave it year-round.
2. When I'm painting, I'm at my most relaxed and stress-free state. I am also seemingly the happiest (probably because of the aforementioned state!). I don't know what it is, but I love it and wish I could do it all the time. I love making people happy with the result, and I love looking at it and feeling I did a good job.
3. I love avocados! Like the sun, they just make me happy and make me feel good. During my Texas trip 2 years ago, everything I ate had avocados in it...it was weird, I finally noticed "Oh my...everything that I have ordered to eat was picked because of the avocado ingredient!" Yum!
4. I love animals, but sometimes it may not appear that way when I'm dealing with Tana, my French Bulldog. You know, I love the little pig and we cuddle plenty, but when people come over, it brings out a devil in me because I can't stand that she is so mean! But, I had a friend come by yesterday with 2 puppies and they were adorable and Tana loved them. Now I know I can get a new Frenchie and Tana will be ok. (case in point...Tana just went into attack-mode because someone came over!)
5. My fave music is chill-lax, jammin' on a guitar and just putting soul into the song. Such as: Amos Lee, Needtobreathe, Jason Mraz, etc. But I love me some old 90's Rap! (Thank you, Codie)
6. I want to decorate my apartment like the Creation Cafe (here in Indy). I don't like matchy matchy rooms, I like different patterns and stuff to accent each other. I like to combine stuff and make my own style.
7. I don't like when my feet touch weird stuff when they're wet. I can't stand the thought of putting them on the ocean's floor and not knowing what they're touching. Just the same, I have to step on a bath mat (a special towel made for getting out of the shower/bath), and hate when rugs are my only option at other people's houses.
8. I'm in search of THE BEST PILLOW and I'll take 2! Let me know if you have already found it.
9. I'm a sleeper. I can do it any time any where, and without a problem. It may be my best talent.
10. I think it's weird we have middle names. In no way would I ever be called by it because I'm clearly an "Allison", so it's weird to me to think part of my name is something I NEVER EVER go by or even relate to. Strange. But really, what is the purpose?
Nominations: I can't even begin!! Why set myself up for failure when I know I won't succeed!?
Monday, June 14, 2010
What a Dang Deal!
Folks, if you have never ventured into Aldi for any reason, DO IT! This store is amazing. No, there really aren't "brands" here, but the quality of the food is just the same. Now I will proceed to tell you what all I got... (stay tuned for the grand total at the end!)
28 pack of water
2 pkgs Breakfast Sausage links
Hamburger
2 pkgs cream cheese
Cocktail crackers
Baked Beans
Pepperoncinis
Oat Bran Bread
Bananas
PB Cup Cookie Dough
Raspberry Bars Mix
Lip Balm 3 pk
Moist wipes (for the dog!!)
Sweet Corn (4 ears peeled)
Whole Kernel Corn (can)
Scalloped Potatoes mix
Blue Tortilla Chips
Kettle Chips
Turkey Tenderloin (marinated and had 2 in it!)
Pasta salad mix
pack of 3 zucchini
Pizza (this is like Papa Murphy's style)
Strawberries
Skim milk (gallon)
Cantaloupe
Grand Total: $51.34
Are you serious?!?! How is this even legal? I mean, it's wonderful and I love it, but I just can't believe it! I was so happy. Now, if after reading this you absolutely cannot WAIT to get to Aldi, well, it's currently closed because it's 10:30, but it'll be open tomorrow. Aldi is a no-frills store, which I am a fan of, so don't forget your quarter to unlock and "rent" the cart while you shop (but you lock it back up and get your quarter back! Awesome!)....and, bring your own bags, like the reusable ones, because then you will have to pay 10 cents or so for Aldi ones. UNLESS...you use one of their empty food boxes from the shelf, then you just pack your groceries in there and load in your car! It sounds simple, and it is. Go out and experience ALDI!!! (You'll still want to hit up Kroger or Marsh for your Diet Pepsi though)
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Road Trippin'
It's amazing what you think about when you are road trippin' and becoming delirious while doing so for nine hours, or even 6. We set out on a road trip for a dear friend's wedding in Minnesota, and all I kept thinking is "if I were home, I could do this and that and then this," because nine hours is a long time. You catch yourself reminiscing and thinking of all kinds of things, it's crazy! This road trip took me back to fall of 1998 when I went to Winona State University in Winona, MN for a brief semester. It's funny how things just come rushing back into your head after 12 years (almost 12 years!). I remembered the scenery, the cities, the roads...it's like it was just stored in this little vault somewhere in my brain and it hadn't been accessed for a long time. BUT, it was just as good as new!
9 hours...for some, that is a work day. For others, that is a night's worth of sleep. For me, at different times in the year, it's both. Now, it's my sleep! I wanted to sleep and read, and barely did either. Oh, and how ironic, the song "Road Trippin'" by Red Hot Chili Peppers came up on the shuffle on my ipod so I had to show it some respect and play it out. Ya know, it's funny, we listened to the shuffle on my ipod the entire trip (until Jodi drove and only played country), and I have 2346 songs on my ipod. That's unreal! Now, yes, there are SEVERAL I don't really know and several I hate (like the dang Grease soundtrack!!), but I think of it as my own juke box so you gotta take the good with the bad.
Rochester, Minnesota....hmm, not too much to brag on there. Pretty much like a Danville, IL in Minnesota! However, we ate dinner Friday at an awesome place=Pescara. Had fab wine, lobster bisque, and a green apple and bleu cheese salad. Dee-lish! Hopefully you NEVER have to travel to Mayo Hospital, but if you do, check out Pescara.
I'm happy to be home, but I'm not really happy that my car's engine light popped up around Chicago. Grrr. I'm telling you...that VW Passat is starting to really drive me bon-KERS! I loved my last Passat, til it was totaled, I replaced it with a newer model, and nothing but lights lights lights pop up on that dash! Luckily, the warranty covers it, but still...it's annoying. At least the V-dub carried us safely, and I'm home in the Cuddler ready to watch the season premiere of True Blood. Oh, life is good....life IS GOOD!
9 hours...for some, that is a work day. For others, that is a night's worth of sleep. For me, at different times in the year, it's both. Now, it's my sleep! I wanted to sleep and read, and barely did either. Oh, and how ironic, the song "Road Trippin'" by Red Hot Chili Peppers came up on the shuffle on my ipod so I had to show it some respect and play it out. Ya know, it's funny, we listened to the shuffle on my ipod the entire trip (until Jodi drove and only played country), and I have 2346 songs on my ipod. That's unreal! Now, yes, there are SEVERAL I don't really know and several I hate (like the dang Grease soundtrack!!), but I think of it as my own juke box so you gotta take the good with the bad.
Rochester, Minnesota....hmm, not too much to brag on there. Pretty much like a Danville, IL in Minnesota! However, we ate dinner Friday at an awesome place=Pescara. Had fab wine, lobster bisque, and a green apple and bleu cheese salad. Dee-lish! Hopefully you NEVER have to travel to Mayo Hospital, but if you do, check out Pescara.
I'm happy to be home, but I'm not really happy that my car's engine light popped up around Chicago. Grrr. I'm telling you...that VW Passat is starting to really drive me bon-KERS! I loved my last Passat, til it was totaled, I replaced it with a newer model, and nothing but lights lights lights pop up on that dash! Luckily, the warranty covers it, but still...it's annoying. At least the V-dub carried us safely, and I'm home in the Cuddler ready to watch the season premiere of True Blood. Oh, life is good....life IS GOOD!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Do you believe in the 'F' word? (note: there are many notes)
Ok, so not THE 'F' word we all thought of as soon as we read the title, however, I DO frequently use that word in my everyday conversations. I'm talking about F-A-T-E. Do you believe in Fate? Here's my dilemma...I'm a gemini, so this is probably why I am about to explain the strange stance I have on the fate issue. (note: geminis are twins and see both sides of situations and have a hard time making a decision since they "sit the fence" a lot.)
Fate. Well, to me, I have always believed that everything DEFINITELY happens for a reason, reason being known to God and only God, and possibly me one day, IF I ever solve the mystery. I'm very into puzzles. I want to solve mind puzzles and challenge my brain all the time. (note: Just so you know, I've done IQ tests online and I'm by far a genius. Just sayin...because everything on the internet is TRUE and would never LIE to me.) So, being a genius and all, I really like to figure out whatever is thrown at me; God likes to throw all kinds of curve balls, and God....I HAVE NEVER BEEN A CATCHER IN MY SOFTBALL AND BASEBALL YEARS, but I did play a mean second base and swept UP that field! ;) (But now I coach....I remember a quote "those who can't play, coach." Ouch!) Wow, big tangent, back to the issue at hand: FATE.
Anyway, what I'm saying is, yes, I believe in God having a plan for me and when I quit trying to guide my life, I will fall into the plan and it will all work out. BUT, and this is a big BUT (not a big BUTT), what if part of my "plan" (God's plan) is the whole mystery mind game to get TO my plan? Hmm...deep, huh? I mean, really, what if God is giving me exactly what I want and saying "Here, child, take another mind game today, because I'm not ready to have you figure out your plan yet. God bless." I know God is patient, God is kind, God shall not want..oh wait, that is LOVE! God.....Love....same difference. (note: Which brings me to another small thing..."same difference"? What in the?! I hate that saying. It's the same yet different, and blah blah..it's dumb, period.) Anyway, God doesn't play games, and if he does, they aren't referred to as "games". Rather, lessons, I'd like to believe. So then, riddle me this....
If everything IS planned out for me, then does it matter what I do today? I mean, heck, if my plan is to get married to a great man and have four kids (please not four), then why am I out dating and meeting guys? Does it matter that I'm even putting an effort in this if God has it all figured out for me? It's like, I could just sit at home and be lazy and not try at ANYTHING because "God's got it figured out for me already...my plan is already made!" And no, I don't feel this is true but I definitely see a lot of truth in the statement. Because if I had never started painting, I would have never started making money and started a business of it! If I had sat at home and not painted, paintings (done BY ME) would have never fallen into my lap and brought me a profit. So I get really confused and it's an answer I can never get. I can ask a priest/minister, but they will tell me THEIR belief...they didn't know God in His day and hear and see the answer I seek with their own eyes, so it's all just a thought and belief in my head.
Frustrating....Dang. But, either way, I believe in fate because it's a comfort to believe God DOES have a plan for me and as long as I keep snooping around, I'm liable to sniff out my path and get on with God's plan. So, do I believe in the 'F' word? Yep. Unless I come across an IQ test online (because, remember, they DO NOT lie), that tells me differently.
Fate. Well, to me, I have always believed that everything DEFINITELY happens for a reason, reason being known to God and only God, and possibly me one day, IF I ever solve the mystery. I'm very into puzzles. I want to solve mind puzzles and challenge my brain all the time. (note: Just so you know, I've done IQ tests online and I'm by far a genius. Just sayin...because everything on the internet is TRUE and would never LIE to me.) So, being a genius and all, I really like to figure out whatever is thrown at me; God likes to throw all kinds of curve balls, and God....I HAVE NEVER BEEN A CATCHER IN MY SOFTBALL AND BASEBALL YEARS, but I did play a mean second base and swept UP that field! ;) (But now I coach....I remember a quote "those who can't play, coach." Ouch!) Wow, big tangent, back to the issue at hand: FATE.
Anyway, what I'm saying is, yes, I believe in God having a plan for me and when I quit trying to guide my life, I will fall into the plan and it will all work out. BUT, and this is a big BUT (not a big BUTT), what if part of my "plan" (God's plan) is the whole mystery mind game to get TO my plan? Hmm...deep, huh? I mean, really, what if God is giving me exactly what I want and saying "Here, child, take another mind game today, because I'm not ready to have you figure out your plan yet. God bless." I know God is patient, God is kind, God shall not want..oh wait, that is LOVE! God.....Love....same difference. (note: Which brings me to another small thing..."same difference"? What in the?! I hate that saying. It's the same yet different, and blah blah..it's dumb, period.) Anyway, God doesn't play games, and if he does, they aren't referred to as "games". Rather, lessons, I'd like to believe. So then, riddle me this....
If everything IS planned out for me, then does it matter what I do today? I mean, heck, if my plan is to get married to a great man and have four kids (please not four), then why am I out dating and meeting guys? Does it matter that I'm even putting an effort in this if God has it all figured out for me? It's like, I could just sit at home and be lazy and not try at ANYTHING because "God's got it figured out for me already...my plan is already made!" And no, I don't feel this is true but I definitely see a lot of truth in the statement. Because if I had never started painting, I would have never started making money and started a business of it! If I had sat at home and not painted, paintings (done BY ME) would have never fallen into my lap and brought me a profit. So I get really confused and it's an answer I can never get. I can ask a priest/minister, but they will tell me THEIR belief...they didn't know God in His day and hear and see the answer I seek with their own eyes, so it's all just a thought and belief in my head.
Frustrating....Dang. But, either way, I believe in fate because it's a comfort to believe God DOES have a plan for me and as long as I keep snooping around, I'm liable to sniff out my path and get on with God's plan. So, do I believe in the 'F' word? Yep. Unless I come across an IQ test online (because, remember, they DO NOT lie), that tells me differently.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Did I mention...
I love summer. There it is...I LOVE SUMMER. Yes, I admitted and even used the word "love" since that doesn't come easily for me. And I meant it. I love the sun, and how it burns me and makes me feel so good (while using an spf of around 8), and how it transforms my mood. Truly...it does! Maybe it's all those vitamins the rays are shooting into me, but maybe it's because I'm extremely relaxed and able to just "be". It's rare that anyone gets to just BE. Usually we are all too busy thinking to truly relax and just enjoy the moments at that time. I know I am very guilty of not relaxing, hence the reason heads were about to roll in my classroom in the past month. And hence the reason I was about to go to the doctor and say "HELP ME! GIVE ME PATIENCE PILLS!!" But the rational part of me said to myself "Honey...school is out in a few days. Take a week and see if you still feel like rolling heads. Come on now...be rational." :) That may not have been the exact convo, in fact, I know it wasn't. The real one would have been censored and not made much sense after being censored! Hey, that's my style...cuss words let me express my anger best! I love cuss words...look! There I go again, using the L word...I used it twice in a few minutes! Most I've used that word in, well, a year???!! But who's counting!
I want this comforter from Anthropologie. It's amazingly soft, not to mention, it has the cute "chic" design with just enough girlie-ness and sophistication...AND COMFORT! It's so great. It's made of jersey cotton so you know it's awesome. Every time (for the past two years or so) that I've entered an Anthropologie store, I can't wait to get to the bedding section to feel this comforter. It's simply heaven on a bed. I looked at the price and immediately knew it was only going to be something I dream about, kinda like Eddie Cibrian. Until my art business started getting bigger. I was trying to justify buying a $248.00 comforter, then I realized "Duh, your birthday is coming up! Ask for gift cards!!" So I did. I posted on Facebook and put a link to the site. Now, I can buy it and pay only $50 or so and feel great about it. Thanks family and friends.
and here's a pic of Eddie Cibrian just so you have a visual of what I dream about...
I'm super pumped about Needtobreathe (and Train) coming to town AGAIN this August! How rad! Needtobreathe is my new fave music group. They are bad a$$ and I just really really really like them. :) Check them out, they're amazing. And the week of my birthday, I received a free t-shirt from the fan club. CHEEZ :D
I want this comforter from Anthropologie. It's amazingly soft, not to mention, it has the cute "chic" design with just enough girlie-ness and sophistication...AND COMFORT! It's so great. It's made of jersey cotton so you know it's awesome. Every time (for the past two years or so) that I've entered an Anthropologie store, I can't wait to get to the bedding section to feel this comforter. It's simply heaven on a bed. I looked at the price and immediately knew it was only going to be something I dream about, kinda like Eddie Cibrian. Until my art business started getting bigger. I was trying to justify buying a $248.00 comforter, then I realized "Duh, your birthday is coming up! Ask for gift cards!!" So I did. I posted on Facebook and put a link to the site. Now, I can buy it and pay only $50 or so and feel great about it. Thanks family and friends.
and here's a pic of Eddie Cibrian just so you have a visual of what I dream about...
I'm super pumped about Needtobreathe (and Train) coming to town AGAIN this August! How rad! Needtobreathe is my new fave music group. They are bad a$$ and I just really really really like them. :) Check them out, they're amazing. And the week of my birthday, I received a free t-shirt from the fan club. CHEEZ :D
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
I hope they serve beer in hell...
So...I've been introduced to a new author and his book. TUCKER MAX. I will say I am VERY glad I was introduced to him and his book because he is my exact nightmare. I mean, this book was HILARIOUS. Appropriate? No, not for young audiences. And maybe not for adult audiences who take themselves too seriously. I mean, this book was so raunchy and rude that I couldn't help but fall in love with it! I want to read it again because it's unbelievably true....let me fill you in with a little "review".
Tucker is a male who likes to have fun. Fun, including excessive amounts of ANY alcohol, and then mix in any surrounding female (0-5 star). Tucker likes to have "fun" by doing ridiculous things in public, humiliating himself and others, and then STILL finding a girl to hook up with him, which always has an entertaining story to follow. I mean, puking down the edge of the bed against the wall while the hook up of the night is in her bathroom is just one example.
I couldn't help but think of a guy I know who is a great friend of my friend. He IS Tucker Max, or just went to Tucker Max University. I called him Sunday while reading it and said "I'm reading a book that I can't help but think of you EVERY TIME I open it." With only saying that, he replied "Is it I hope they serve beer in hell??" With which we both belly laughed for a few minutes! He already knew! He said "Well, I take it as a compliment. And actually, I'm a little pissed he beat me to it!" I'm still working on a title for his book because he has entirely too many stories to NOT share with the world! We need to laugh!
Oh, so why is he my exact nightmare? Because I always fear meeting a guy who seems really cool, sarcastic, funny, personable, and smart (all wonderful things) but not knowing he is the biggest man-slut there is...and one who makes it his personal goal to get better at! (Sorry, ended with a preposition.) I like to think I'm a great judge of character, but you know, we all are fooled at some point and it's not fun when it's a guy you may be into. (Preposition AGAIN!)
Anyway, my review is 5 stars. It's completely entertaining, as any book should be, it doesn't lack a hook, and there were NO typos in the entire thing! As I said, it's raunchy and rude and if you take yourself seriously, you don't want to read this because you'll then be mad at yourself for liking it!
You can get the book for a cheap price (unless you know me, you can borrow for free!), or you can visit www.tuckermax.com and get plenty of stories!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Happy Birthday to Me...Wow, 31.
This was just a year ago for my big 3-0! This year, the group may differ slightly, but no matter what, I'll be with my pals! Thanks to all of you who make me get out and celebrate! See....birthdays to me are just another day, but a day you feel a little special because of the attention you get. No, I have never EVER been a big attention-seeker and would never throw my own big bash because I don't expect my birthday to be a celebration for anyone else. I'm telling you...Facebook hit the nail on the head when they included birthday reminders because it makes the birthday girl (or boy) feel so special and loved on that great day of birth!
This year, I'm thinking how awesome is it that ALO (Animal Liberation Orchestra) is playing at the Rathskeller on my birthday?! Let me paint you a visual picture of the Rathskeller if you don't know what it is...
A quaint outdoor stage surrounded with a shell and cool decor hanging from the roof. picnic tables all over a rock bottom, fenced in garden of AWESOMENESS with good beer and food! Probably the best outdoor arena for a band. Not to mention, ALO is pretty big. They aren't locals, so I'm super pumped they're here and on my bday. I feel bad asking people to join us there because it's a $10 cover and I don't want anyone to think "Jeez...she's wanting us to join her to celebrate, but we have to pay $10 just to get in!" Oh well, I'm sorry people. For reals. I'm excited! Out of school, turning 31, summer starting, good tunes, good bevs, and another full day of drinking on Friday! Thank you thank you thank you! Happy Birthday to me.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
It's gonna be a 7th grade summer!
At first, you may think "Oh! She's teaching 7th grade summer school!" Heck no. I'm job-free this summer, thank you very much. However, I mean it's gonna be a 7th grade summer when we lived on our bikes and didn't get off of them except to eat, lounge, or when the "street lights came on". Yes, folks, I'm getting a bike today! I'm so excited. See, Friday night, some co-worker pals and I hung out and had a few refreshing bevs along with an intense catchphrase tournament. We had to switch it up each round because otherwise, Codie and I would've DOMINATED big time. Anyway, Codie fetched some pies from Little Caesar's (yes, this is the 2nd time I've mentioned LC's in my blog posts, which is so weird because I have rarely even thought of LC's before!), so me and Ferrell decided to go cruisin on bikes. It was so dang fun, I can't believe I haven't bought a bike since, well my pre-16 years.
So I get on Craig's List and search. I find a pretty sweet ride, only $50. So I email the owner, he still has it and I am calling him after 5 today to get directions and pick up my early birthday present to yours truly. I'm telling you...I'm LIVING on that bike this summer! Getting to the pool, courtesy of Big Blue (it's a bright blue Schwinn with a new gel seat, thank you Mr. Bike Seller Man), trips to meet my friend, Dara, for coffee, courtesy of Big Blue, maybe having an afternoon Summer Shandy on Mass Ave, courtesy of Big Blue....and of course, fun rides with any of my bike-owning companions.
I overheard a girl at Starbucks the other night say "I don't drive anywhere any more. I only ride my bike. When I first started biking, I lost weight and couldn't stop! I lost 20 lbs, and then started building muscle." DING DING DING DING! That's all I needed to hear. BUILDING MUSCLE! This bod needs some toning so bike=nonflabby, I'll take it! Here's to building muscle, living like I'm 13 again, and SUMMER, my favorite time of the year!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
"Inmate Idol"
Did I hear this correctly? I heard it on the radio but who knows what is a joke and what is serious any more, especially when I listen to Bob & Tom and they are nothing but jokes (thank you, by the way).
Back to the topic...INMATE IDOL! It's not a joke, folks. NOT A JOKE. In fact, it's super serious. WHOA WHOA WHOA...sidenote. I'm watching the aforementioned Idol results show and Bieber-boy is on. I'm so over hearing about him. First, your name should be BEAVER because Bieber just sounds improper. Additionally, he sounds like a female and looks like he is 10..for reals. AND....he got a tattoo the other day! Here's my one positive comment about the Bieb: at least his songs are appropriate for our kids to listen to (for which to listen).
Back to the topic (again!)....Inmate Idol is so super serious. It's exactly what it sounds like. Allowing inmates to perform songs in front of a sea of inmates, and compete. I just saw a commercial on t.v. WOW. Amazing. And if I hear the clip of that guy singing in the commercial one more time, well, I'm gonna kick my dog. JUST KIDDING! I wouldn't kick her...for that reason, at least! JOKES, peeps, JOKES! Ok, Biebs just jammed out for 5 seconds on a set of drums and the whole crowd JITP (acronym from SNL...great song/video, actually JIMP...figure it out). I'm outty 5G (what does that even mean?). Adios. Inmate Idol?? Sheesh!
Back to the topic...INMATE IDOL! It's not a joke, folks. NOT A JOKE. In fact, it's super serious. WHOA WHOA WHOA...sidenote. I'm watching the aforementioned Idol results show and Bieber-boy is on. I'm so over hearing about him. First, your name should be BEAVER because Bieber just sounds improper. Additionally, he sounds like a female and looks like he is 10..for reals. AND....he got a tattoo the other day! Here's my one positive comment about the Bieb: at least his songs are appropriate for our kids to listen to (for which to listen).
Back to the topic (again!)....Inmate Idol is so super serious. It's exactly what it sounds like. Allowing inmates to perform songs in front of a sea of inmates, and compete. I just saw a commercial on t.v. WOW. Amazing. And if I hear the clip of that guy singing in the commercial one more time, well, I'm gonna kick my dog. JUST KIDDING! I wouldn't kick her...for that reason, at least! JOKES, peeps, JOKES! Ok, Biebs just jammed out for 5 seconds on a set of drums and the whole crowd JITP (acronym from SNL...great song/video, actually JIMP...figure it out). I'm outty 5G (what does that even mean?). Adios. Inmate Idol?? Sheesh!
and you're complaining that the Idol results show is being cut in half??
Wow...if you are crying and complaining about the Idol results show being cut down to a half an hour, raise your hand! Now, I'm going to smack you in the face so you snap out of it. HELLO, people! The results show should really only be as long as any normal commercial break. Come on the air, sans Ryan Seacrest, say who is cut (no bottom 2 or 3!), and let normal programming air. It's not hard to figure out, FOX...it's evident you pack as much "fluff" as you can into an hour just to give us the results in some ridiculous NOT edge-of-your-seat fashion...stretching it all out. JUST SAY WHO GOT BOOTED!! So, again, who's crying about it being cut down to STILL a program 25 minutes TOO long? Ok, now.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Shouldn't a "deposit" be called a "down payment"?
I mean, really....every apartment I've EVER inhabited has required a deposit, which insinuates you will "get it back" at some point in time. NOT SO MUCH. I mean, have I ever gotten one back? A deposit for a locker at King's Island is a quarter or maybe 10 by now (inflation!!), and that's just so you have a key to a locker. A deposit for a loaner cart at Aldi is a quarter and that's so they won't have to hire a cart guy (or girl!), which is GENIUS, I tell ya, and you STILL GET THE QUARTER BACK. And a deposit for an apartment shouldn't be any different. I mean, coming up with two months' rent if the said apartment is $1000 is kinda ridiculous. (For me, at least). Anyway, I think this is the ridiculous part...
The landlord expects you to clean the apartment upon departure, HOWEVER, they hire these cleaning people for apparently $1000 an hour (cost of deposit!) to come clean the moment you leave. So, why did I just take 4 hours to clean it in HOPES of getting my "deposit" of $1000 back?? I know, it's also in case you bail on the last month's rent, but I've never bailed, so why don't I win the deposit lottery at the end of my lease? It's something to ponder...
The landlord expects you to clean the apartment upon departure, HOWEVER, they hire these cleaning people for apparently $1000 an hour (cost of deposit!) to come clean the moment you leave. So, why did I just take 4 hours to clean it in HOPES of getting my "deposit" of $1000 back?? I know, it's also in case you bail on the last month's rent, but I've never bailed, so why don't I win the deposit lottery at the end of my lease? It's something to ponder...
Piddle Pad
So, I have a dog. She is almost 12 years old (even though her records show TWO birthdays...) and in the past couple or few years, her new hobby has become peeing inside. She loves to do this! So, I've used piddle pads for ages, but they really get costly for how popular her hobby has become, and I felt bad thinking of landfills with her piddle pads (they could be filling their own landfill!). So, I saw the "green alternative", a pad that could be thrown in the washing machine and washed up to 300 times, for about $25. So, yea, I bought it! First few times, awesome! Then I washed and washed a few more, and the stupid thing started to leak wetness, not a full stream of urine, but the wetness was seeping through and ruining the wood floor. (Luckily, I rent, but still...DEPOSIT!? But really, that leads me to a whole NEW blog post!)
The pad came with a guarantee, so they had UPS pick it up and they inspected it, then sent a new one out to me. Great, you are probably thinking. No, this one is just as awful, if not worse, because I came home Thursday and moved the pad to wash it, and low and behold, there is a new permanent "tattoo" on the wood floor in front of the kitchen sink...it seems to resemble a certain rectangular PAD that was previously there. UGH! How awful!? I've let it air out, no good...still BLACK. I would post a pic but not sure the ol' Dell laptop is going to allow such shenanigans. Oh, and how could I forget to mention the wonderful scent? The pad is supposed to be good for a few "potties" then washed. I absolutely cannot stand the urine odor any more. But, am I supposed to wash it more often and have the 300 washes be done in like 2 months? I don't know. Why can't the ridiculous dog just go potty outside? This would really solve a lot of issues.
The pad came with a guarantee, so they had UPS pick it up and they inspected it, then sent a new one out to me. Great, you are probably thinking. No, this one is just as awful, if not worse, because I came home Thursday and moved the pad to wash it, and low and behold, there is a new permanent "tattoo" on the wood floor in front of the kitchen sink...it seems to resemble a certain rectangular PAD that was previously there. UGH! How awful!? I've let it air out, no good...still BLACK. I would post a pic but not sure the ol' Dell laptop is going to allow such shenanigans. Oh, and how could I forget to mention the wonderful scent? The pad is supposed to be good for a few "potties" then washed. I absolutely cannot stand the urine odor any more. But, am I supposed to wash it more often and have the 300 washes be done in like 2 months? I don't know. Why can't the ridiculous dog just go potty outside? This would really solve a lot of issues.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Now Hiring: Booty Shaker to Advertise Pizza
Ok, so...driving home from work, I noticed quite the little (or big) dance party going on in front of a strip mall. The dance party was a one-man show, and the said dancer was wearing a huge Little Caesar's sign while standing--I'm sorry, DANCING--on the corner of a very busy intersection. Dancing man HAD to have been hired for his moves because he totally had some good ones, my favorite being the PELVIC THRUST. Yes, this LC Dancer may have had the strongest pelvis to thrust that sign high into the air..strongest I've ever seen (which really doesn't need to be all that strong since I haven't seen a ton). LCD (let's just shorten his name to LCD for Little Caesar's Dancer) had on his ipod or mp3 player, and was JAMMING, I tell ya. So, that brings me to this thought to ponder...
"Does Little Caesar's have a position that states something along the lines of 'Now Hiring an extreme dancer for the corner in front of the store to wear our sign and wear a path of dead grass and dirt into the healthy green section of grass. Must load ipod with rad jams and be ready to dance for hours. Inquire within."
"Does Little Caesar's have a position that states something along the lines of 'Now Hiring an extreme dancer for the corner in front of the store to wear our sign and wear a path of dead grass and dirt into the healthy green section of grass. Must load ipod with rad jams and be ready to dance for hours. Inquire within."
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Mutts are now specialty breeds!?
So I'm working with an old friend of mine from high school who now owns pet stores and wants some of my artwork for his stores. We talked about doing a "trade" for my work, and me getting a French Bulldog puppy. (YAY) I was looking at his puppy inventory and am seriously laughing in disbelief at how people are breeding MUTTS and demanding big bucks for them. Some of the names I'm finding are:
Yorkie Poo
Bugg
Morkie
Teddy Bear
Cavachon
Cockalier
Pekatese
Shih-Poo (really??)
Yorkie-Chon
Shin-Chon
Cavapoo
French Pug
Yorkie Pom
French Bull/Puggle
I mean, really folks...these are MUTTS and we are churchin them up (thank you, Joe Dirt) to seem like these fancy new breeds. Yes, I like my puppies like the rest of the world, but just putting a fancy price tag on a not-so-fancy item never works. However, puppies are adorable and this time, churchin it up might work for some of those softies. I also noticed "puppy financing" with no credit check--everyone is approved! Nice, for the owner of the store, but not so nice for softies, again. I'll be checking that inventory regularly for my own little, cream French Bulldog! YAY YAY YAY! Tana's getting a little brother or sister whether she likes it or not...my guess, she will NOT like it. Oh well...mama's gotta get paid, and what better paycheck than a cute little puppy face??
Yorkie Poo
Bugg
Morkie
Teddy Bear
Cavachon
Cockalier
Pekatese
Shih-Poo (really??)
Yorkie-Chon
Shin-Chon
Cavapoo
French Pug
Yorkie Pom
French Bull/Puggle
I mean, really folks...these are MUTTS and we are churchin them up (thank you, Joe Dirt) to seem like these fancy new breeds. Yes, I like my puppies like the rest of the world, but just putting a fancy price tag on a not-so-fancy item never works. However, puppies are adorable and this time, churchin it up might work for some of those softies. I also noticed "puppy financing" with no credit check--everyone is approved! Nice, for the owner of the store, but not so nice for softies, again. I'll be checking that inventory regularly for my own little, cream French Bulldog! YAY YAY YAY! Tana's getting a little brother or sister whether she likes it or not...my guess, she will NOT like it. Oh well...mama's gotta get paid, and what better paycheck than a cute little puppy face??
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Building Romance
I just wanted to get this out there because it's going to be an ongoing subject I'll blog about. The Building Romance includes neighbor 203 and neighbor 102. A male and a female. Both smokers, whom I believe have increased their smoking habit just to spend more time with each other. Now you have to know this, at first, I believe it was just honestly like this "Hey! I live in 203, I'm Pablo Picasso." (puff puff) and then "Oh, hi, I'm Georgia O'Keeffe, and I just moved into 102." (puff puff). But, my roommate and I have both witnessed Picasso's arm around Georgia, which clearly suggests more than friends. I don't remember the last time my guy friend/neighbor and I sat in public and embraced while talking. Anyway, back to the romance...
See, I have just recently been lucky enough to exit the building right after Picasso does in the a.m. on the way to work. I have to pass by 102, and I noticed a note with a picture drawn all over the envelope, taped to the door. I so wanted to read what the stick men were saying, but I feared Picasso coming back into the building for his forgotten lunch sack, or Georgia just opening the door to my nosey face in her business. So I just glanced as I passed. Dang it, I wish I knew what it said! But, previously, I've seen other notes, AND and AND a fresh, single flower taped to the door. I've also opened my door to take out my dog, and Georgia was right there knocking on Picasso's door and was almost frightened and a little shame-faced to be knocking on his door. (Like I care!?)
But most recently, I've thoroughly enjoyed the "Cigarette butt drawings" that, I believe, Picasso has been creating on the back steps. I'm going to take pictures because he keeps enhancing his sketches with more details and is even now showing his sketches with different emotions. Interesting, I think. I'll share with you but the rain has washed away the old sketches. Being Picasso and all, I just let mother nature wash away millions of dollars! Me=Dummy. Oh well, I have faith that Picasso will return to sketch more with his cigarette butts!!
Peace, homies.
See, I have just recently been lucky enough to exit the building right after Picasso does in the a.m. on the way to work. I have to pass by 102, and I noticed a note with a picture drawn all over the envelope, taped to the door. I so wanted to read what the stick men were saying, but I feared Picasso coming back into the building for his forgotten lunch sack, or Georgia just opening the door to my nosey face in her business. So I just glanced as I passed. Dang it, I wish I knew what it said! But, previously, I've seen other notes, AND and AND a fresh, single flower taped to the door. I've also opened my door to take out my dog, and Georgia was right there knocking on Picasso's door and was almost frightened and a little shame-faced to be knocking on his door. (Like I care!?)
But most recently, I've thoroughly enjoyed the "Cigarette butt drawings" that, I believe, Picasso has been creating on the back steps. I'm going to take pictures because he keeps enhancing his sketches with more details and is even now showing his sketches with different emotions. Interesting, I think. I'll share with you but the rain has washed away the old sketches. Being Picasso and all, I just let mother nature wash away millions of dollars! Me=Dummy. Oh well, I have faith that Picasso will return to sketch more with his cigarette butts!!
Peace, homies.
For starters...
For starters, I've been thinking of starting a blog because a friend suggested it. I thought and thought about a title and a subject that I'd even like to blog about...which led me to here: The Daily DANG! See, I'm kind of known for saying "dang!" a lot, which I attribute to none other than the awesome Joe Dirt(I like to add an e to the end and pronounce it deer-tay!). "Say it don't spray it brother, DANG!" So it just stuck. Being a normal human being with a conscience, I knew I couldn't keep updating my Facebook status every time I had a ridiculous observation to share. Therefore, I have decided to share these absolutely ridiculous observations via a blog, thank you very much. Now, you can read away and pretty much think "I KNOW! I've seen that SAME thing before...what is with people?!" Enjoy yourselves, and yes, I put yourselves (plural) because I already forsee many followers.
Some things I've unfortunately observed since I first thought about starting the blog, but didn't have the forum to report about it yet:
1. So I get a quart of paint, bright orange, very excited about it. Only $5 at the hardware store because it was a "mis-tint". Mis-tint? I'd say so! There was bright orange dripping down the side and around the lid, but when I open it, not-so-bright orange inside. More like a mint greenish gray. What the?! This was THE first purchase with my business debit card (I just started a new painting business), and it'll now also be my first return with the business debit card. DANG!!!!
2. Ok, so my friend Brooke is reminding me of these situations I've already experienced, and this is another one. RUDE concert-goers. I'm at a great artist's concert in an intimate setting, aka a bar. It's at least $20 to get in, a Tuesday night, but also in a campus town. I should know that a Tuesday night is a going out night (as is every other night of the week) when you are in a campus town. During the show, Amos Lee (the singer) keeps giving evil eyes to the back of the room, which I was shooting similar darts with my eyes, because this huge area in the room was being SO LOUD we couldn't even hear Amos on the mic! FINALLY, and yes I use all caps to show emphasis in my typing, FINALLY, Amos said "Could y'all just give me about 5 minutes and I'll be done? Or you can leave now, I don't give a sh*t!" And we all cheered because it was almost like I was on Boiling Points (MTV) and I definitely didn't win the prize money for lasting without blowing up on someone. Why pay the money to get into a small bar for a concert if you are just going to talk and laugh like a hyena? If anything, rude concert-goers, GO TO THE FRONT OF THE BAR where NO ONE was and be a zoo up there! It was a disappointment, but also just a ridiculous,unbelievable situation...rude people make me angry.
3. I had the wonderful opportunity to experience a new spa in Indianapolis, well north "burb" of Indy, and get a pedicure. We were celebrating a bachelorette party there, and we all had to reserve our services a while ago. Then, we had to call with our credit card numbers this week. While there, the pedi was fine. Upon departure, I kept asking if I needed to sign my credit card slip. Hold on, back up...when I entered the spa I saw a sign that said "We no longer accept tips on credit cards due to increased charges." So, I thought "Dang it..I have no cash!" Come to find out, I didn't have to sign a slip, and was told a 20% tip was added. Fine. But I also thought "I didn't think they put tips on credit cards, but whatever!". I check my account online today, and the $45.00 pedicure turned into a $60 charge. Hmmm....I'm good with math (somewhat) and I knew $15 wasn't 20%! That dang spa added $15 for a TIP for a semi-decent pedicure! Don't worry, I've already put in an email reminder for myself tomorrow to call and get it taken off. Why would anyone just put that on as a tip?! Ugh....rudeness ensues and I don't like.
I'll leave you with those few thoughts...hey, you got a special treat for the first entry...you got THREE Daily Dangs...don't get spoiled, that may never happen again.
Adios.
Some things I've unfortunately observed since I first thought about starting the blog, but didn't have the forum to report about it yet:
1. So I get a quart of paint, bright orange, very excited about it. Only $5 at the hardware store because it was a "mis-tint". Mis-tint? I'd say so! There was bright orange dripping down the side and around the lid, but when I open it, not-so-bright orange inside. More like a mint greenish gray. What the?! This was THE first purchase with my business debit card (I just started a new painting business), and it'll now also be my first return with the business debit card. DANG!!!!
2. Ok, so my friend Brooke is reminding me of these situations I've already experienced, and this is another one. RUDE concert-goers. I'm at a great artist's concert in an intimate setting, aka a bar. It's at least $20 to get in, a Tuesday night, but also in a campus town. I should know that a Tuesday night is a going out night (as is every other night of the week) when you are in a campus town. During the show, Amos Lee (the singer) keeps giving evil eyes to the back of the room, which I was shooting similar darts with my eyes, because this huge area in the room was being SO LOUD we couldn't even hear Amos on the mic! FINALLY, and yes I use all caps to show emphasis in my typing, FINALLY, Amos said "Could y'all just give me about 5 minutes and I'll be done? Or you can leave now, I don't give a sh*t!" And we all cheered because it was almost like I was on Boiling Points (MTV) and I definitely didn't win the prize money for lasting without blowing up on someone. Why pay the money to get into a small bar for a concert if you are just going to talk and laugh like a hyena? If anything, rude concert-goers, GO TO THE FRONT OF THE BAR where NO ONE was and be a zoo up there! It was a disappointment, but also just a ridiculous,unbelievable situation...rude people make me angry.
3. I had the wonderful opportunity to experience a new spa in Indianapolis, well north "burb" of Indy, and get a pedicure. We were celebrating a bachelorette party there, and we all had to reserve our services a while ago. Then, we had to call with our credit card numbers this week. While there, the pedi was fine. Upon departure, I kept asking if I needed to sign my credit card slip. Hold on, back up...when I entered the spa I saw a sign that said "We no longer accept tips on credit cards due to increased charges." So, I thought "Dang it..I have no cash!" Come to find out, I didn't have to sign a slip, and was told a 20% tip was added. Fine. But I also thought "I didn't think they put tips on credit cards, but whatever!". I check my account online today, and the $45.00 pedicure turned into a $60 charge. Hmmm....I'm good with math (somewhat) and I knew $15 wasn't 20%! That dang spa added $15 for a TIP for a semi-decent pedicure! Don't worry, I've already put in an email reminder for myself tomorrow to call and get it taken off. Why would anyone just put that on as a tip?! Ugh....rudeness ensues and I don't like.
I'll leave you with those few thoughts...hey, you got a special treat for the first entry...you got THREE Daily Dangs...don't get spoiled, that may never happen again.
Adios.
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