Tuesday, October 09, 2007

Tarot Reading Tuesday...



Love: Death

Touchstone: The Judgement

Career: Strength

You’re emerging from a period of loneliness today, Jennifer, with the resolution to open yourself up towards others and to accept the gestures of love and affection they’re offering you. Judgement and Death are signaling a new departure in your romantic life. This could mean new encounters or re-bonding with old friends and acquaintances – but above all it means joy of life. Make the best of it! Opportunities arise in your professional life that might well improve your situation beyond your expectations. Judgement is the messenger of good news, and Strength gives you all the energy and the determination that you need to seize the moment. So, keep your eyes open and your ears pricked. You don’t want to miss out.

Friday, September 28, 2007

Drum Roll Please...


As I put the finishing touches on my bag of goodies I shall take to Chicago... I'm thinking about all the hard work I've put into my new job. I love my new job!

I've been planning, along with 3 other gals, a very, very large conference... and after next week, it will be over and we will start working on next year's conference.

Who would've though that I'd be SO excited to work 15 hour days... I seriously can't wait to board the plane on Monday.

I cannot wait to see the accumulation of our efforts, all laid out nice and neat.

I'll take pics and share of my adventure upon my return.

Monday, September 24, 2007

Go Huskers!

Headed to Lincoln, NE over the weekend to attend the Huskers vs. Ball State game.



Football isn't taken lightly in those parts... they are FANS. It was crazy. I'd never have imagined that a college football team could attract more people to a game than could fit in the Chiefs' stadium.



W and I were two of like 85,000 people there. It was insane... in the fun-est of ways!

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Already... Feeling Better!

So I had my appointment at the Pain Clinic yesterday.

Apparently I'm not doomed and under 30 after all! :) Yay!

I got my first epidural shot of steroids and I'm feeling so much better already. My disk is protruding centrally, so I'm not a candidate for surgery... Yay, Yay!

I'll go back in 3 weeks to get another shot, and see how I'm doing. Hopefully these shots will keep me moving and let me do the fun things I've always done before.

So, today, I'm feeling brand new... and couldn't be happier.

Monday, September 10, 2007

I'm SO too young for this shit...

So I have a hurty back... so I went to the doctor when I couldn't stand it anymore...

So... two weeks later... and today I get this shitty news...

1. Moderlately large left paracentral disc protrusion with mass effect upon the left S1 nerve root.
2. Mild broad-based central disc protrusion at L4-L5.
3. Mild bulging disc at T12-L1.
4. Degenerative disc changes (arthritis) at L4-L5 and L5-S1.
5. Slight retrolisthesis of L5 on S1.

So, my next move is to leave a message to make an appointment to schedule a "consultation" at the pain clinic.

I wonder how long it will take them to call me back... and then how long it will be before they have an opening...

Won't somebody give me some drugs to make me a little happier?

Tuesday, September 04, 2007

I might just pull this off...

Paid all my bills... with the check half the size it should be (due to time without pay from my trip to Kauai).

This makes this 'faux' Monday a little easier.

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

I *heart* DMB

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Thanks for visiting last night... you guys rock.

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

How does HE choose?

Late Saturday night a friend, Coop, died.

Its been a little while, but I've lost MANY friends in my life. I just don't understand it. I mean, I get it that people are born and people die... but shouldn't good people have the right to live to a nice ripe old age?

I can be consumed by stupid and meaningless shit sometimes (see yesterday's post) yet there are things that are so much bigger going on.

Am I that self absorbed? Why does someone have to be taken to make me realize this?

Well, thanks Coop for taking the time to talk to the only gal in the room that you didn't know ... I'm blessed to have known you.

Monday, August 27, 2007

Umm... What was I doing?

So I'm working 2 jobs... to pay off bills. Stupid Bills.

And I'm working too much. Actually right now, I'm working 2 full time jobs... and you could say I'm pretty tired. Silly, Stupid Bills.

I haven't seen some of my best friends in months. And this makes me very, very sad. I hate you, Stupid Bills.

I'm almost so-tired-that-I'm-sick. And it sucks. Stupid, Stupid Bills.

I'm bartending now. I like it. I like the money it makes me. I like money.

Never again will I spend money on anything/anyone other than myself. Seriously. I'm tired of being in debt. Stupid Fucking Bills!

Sorry... I'm cranky.

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

The Everlasting Souvenier...

So, while on our Girls' Vacation... we all got new tattoos! Mom and Aunt J got hibiscus flowers on their shoulder, Sister got a tramp stamp of hibiscus flowers... and see below... my newest turtle addition.

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It really is quite amazing in person. So, thanks to Jarod at Farsyde Tattoo in Kauai, HI.

Yeah, he was pretty hot too. ;)

Monday, July 23, 2007

I just don't understand some things...

My Sister has decided that she's getting a divorce... and I'm devestated for my brother-in-law.

I always have thought that we was an angel to her... he's SUCH a good person. He's put up with a lot of crap over the 9 years of marriage (and two years of dating)... I mean, my Sister is HIGH maintenance, and at times TOO high maintenance.

And he was a trooper through it all.

She's decided that she's just not happy and can't continue to live her life that way.

I can't blame her for wanting to be happy. I WANT her to be happy. No one should live their entire live unhappy because they don't want to 'hurt someone else's feelings'.

I just don't know what a divorce is like... when there's not a 'bad guy'. My brother-in-law didn't 'do' anything wrong.

And so he's devestated... and my heart is just broken for him.

He's been my brother for almost 10 years... and now, he's supposed to be live evictecd from our family... it just doesn't seem right.

I cry each time I think about it... everytime he emails me... I'm also feeling guilty that I don't 'have time' to spend with him. Hell, he's invited me to dinner (I'm going) and we're not even going until NEXT Monday because I have to work or already have plans I can't really get out of.

I just feel horrible!

Thursday, July 12, 2007

My First Kauai'ian Sunset...

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It may not be the best pic... I took it from my new MotoQ phone... I'll update when I get home with pics from the camera.

Aloha!

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

And the countdown begins...

I've been a bad, bad blogger lately. With working two jobs, a sister in the crazy house and just too much to do, I've been away.

But those who work hard... get to play hard too! In less than 24 hours, I will be on a plane... traveling to Kauai... to be in tropical heaven for 9 whole days.

I might just want to stay there.

Wednesday, June 06, 2007

Sorry Folks...

The Meebo screen is gone... I know, it's so sad...

Earlier today, I had someone IM me... that frankly freaked my shit out.

I think that anyone who was a friend would have confessed, and said, "Jen, quit freaking the fuck out!", but alas, they didn't.

So now, in the wake of poor Kelsey's body being found... I will go and purchase some pepper spray... keep it handy while I am out and about... and try to stay away from freaky mother fuckers...

Paranoid? Maybe, but at least I'm still alive.

Bye, Bye... Bob...



Sniff... sniff...

Today is Bob Barker's last day hosting The Price Is Right.

Plinko will never be the same.

Tuesday, June 05, 2007

Just because I'm so fuckin' cool...

FO - My First Baby Hat

A friend of mine had a baby recently... and now I have a present to send her!

Here you go... a turtle themed (surprise, surprise) baby hat for Alex! Yay!




Not quite sure why its so darn yellow... silly, cell phone camera... hopefully I'll get better pictures with a regular camera before I ship it off. Anybody got a blow up baby that would model this for me? :)

Monday, June 04, 2007

15 days... and counting...




We're going to have SUCH a good time...

Thursday, May 31, 2007

I've been doing some thinking...

I often talk about how unlucky I am in love... about how my "picker" is broken... etc.

This talk puts me into a category of people I can't stand... the eternal victim.

I am not a victim.

I'm the one making the poor choices, I'm the one not standing up for what is important to me, and I'm the one who sticks around... delaying the inevitable because I'm too chicken shit to talk about the issues.

The fact is, without beating myself down, I could save myself a lot of heartache, or whatever, if I would just act like a normal person and when someone says something stupid I just reply back with something like, "Hey asshole, stop being a fucker!"

Then they stop... and I don't hate them. (secretly, of course)

Also, when something's wrong... I don't bitch about it to my poor, poor girlfriends... I need to face it head-on, take the bull by its horns... and get it over with already.

I need to learn to be a little bitchy... get what I want, when I want for a damn change.

Thursday, May 24, 2007

Two things...

That made me smile this morning...

1. Fresh cut grass under my feet, right before it rained...

2. Fresh flowers on my kitchen counter...

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

Someone Give This Gal a Sandwich!!!



Whoever said that bony ankles and elbows were sexy... should be shot.

Tuesday, May 22, 2007

It's Been a Long Time... Since I Got Poked in the Ass...

Yesteday I went back to the doctor for this silly, silly poison ivy.

Apprently the first round of steroids wasn't enough to keep Lucy out of the devilish weed.

So, now my ass is a little sore... I didn't sleep a wink last night... and I'm going to pray that extra attention to my diet and a few more times at the gym this week, will keep me from gaining an another five pounds (like I did with the first steroid pack).

At this point... I'm at a "whatever it takes" attitude with making the itchy go away.

I think the last shot I got in the bum was in 6th grade... yeah, that's been a while ago now.

Tuesday, May 08, 2007

Its almost lunchtime...

With so much going on right now... both of my Grandparents being in the hospital for potentially serious things... poison ivy on my face (ugh... itch, itch, itch) and other random things to stress over... I'll try to find joy in the little things...

Like my brand new Hello Kitty lunchbox! Isn't it cute!



If only it were nice, warm and sunny outside... I'd be set. Instead, I'll eat here... at my desk.

In other news... I got another really kick ass package from Nana, my secret-no-longer buddy from the Punk Rock Gift Exchange. I am WAY beyond spoiled... and I don't care if SHD says the pattern looks like a watermelon (which it doesn't).



I can't wait to finish what's currently on my needles (at least some of them) to start on this new-super-fantastic felted purse.

Thanks again, Nana!

Tuesday, May 01, 2007

I can't believe I forgot!!!

So, I've mentioned this Punk Rock Gift Exchange here... and I thanked and posted pics on the PRGE bloger site, but I forgot to post those same pics and thanks here!

How could I?

So, here it is...


Package numero uno... from my Secret PRGE Pal.

I don't have any pics, but I did start on a pair of socks with the great sock yarn you see in the pic... there was a note pad (because all good knitters take notes... at least I do), my WIP - work in progress - is currently residing in the great Betty Boop bag, the body butter... great smells, one at home... one in the car... and one at home, and last and certainly not least... Domiknitrix! I can't wait to start one of the many super cool projects in that book!!!

Thank you bunches, Secret Pal... I love it all!

Thursday, April 26, 2007

A New Feeling for Me...

I won't pretend that I'm perfect... actually, I may be as far from it as possible.

I say the wrong things, don't apologize when I should, don't call when I say I will... I could go on and on.

But one thing I promise... is that I always care. You don't forget those things in life that really matter.

I'm feeling a bit down... something very big happened to someone who has been around longer (but recently dissapeared) than any boyfriend, ex-husband... hell, the only people who've been around longer are family... and I didn't even hear about it.

Its not about me... and feelings of insecurity... at least I don't think it is.

I'm just sad that I couldn't be there for that person... you know?

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Thursday, April 12, 2007

Lucy's Wait is Over...



They finished our fence today! Hooray!!!

Thursday, April 05, 2007

Take Me Out to the Ball Game...


Anna & Scraps - Home Opener
Originally uploaded by NutScraps.
Take me out and get lit....

This is a pic taken at Monday's Kansas City Royal's Home Opener! We had a super fantastic-kick-ass time!

The best part? The Royal's won!!!

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

The Cutest Thing I've Seen Today...



Otters... holding hands!!! Awww...

Thursday, March 22, 2007

So, so, so busy!

I moved... again.

I've lived SIX times since October 2004... I'm tired of moving!

This move is for the best though... I just know it.

So, I signed up for a Punk Rock Gift Exchange. Am I super Punk Rock? No, but I like things that are... I'm all about branching out.

I don't know what all is involved in these things though. We're supposed to keep our identities secret until the 2nd package arrives... so you know, there are 3 packages total; one to be recieved by April 1, the second by May 1 and the third by June 1. I think I already fucked it up though. I'm listed as NutScraps... so I probably should have used my Jen email address... I mean, they don't know who Jen is, right? Oh well. My PRGE Buddy seems pretty fuckin' cool. She's got a great blog... check her out!

So, I think I'm supposed to email her a few times a month and send her cool stuff. I have my first package ready... I hope she likes it. I was supposed to send it out on Saturday... but that was moving day... so I hope she's not too dissapointed that it's going out tomorrow... I know, I'm late... again. But I think she'll like everything so I'm pretty happy.

On the other hand... someone has me as their buddy. I haven't really heard from that person... I'm not too, too worried... but it would be nice to know that they have my new address, right? Oh well, we'll see how it goes.

So, note to my PRGE Buddy... If you've figured out who I am... package is on its way tomorrow and I do apologize about its tardiness. If you don't like the stuff... let me know... I want you to like your shit!

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Slow and Steady Wins the Race...

As of last night...

I've lost 10 pounds in 4 weeks!!! I couldn't be happier. Well, I could be a little happier... but that would be sharing TMI.


Ewww!!! Thank goodness that's gone!

Monday, March 12, 2007

You may think its easy being this cute…

But its not! It’s painful.

Case in point…

I bought a super cute dress this weekend and decided to wear it to work today. Now, everyone who has ever worn them knows… panty hose suck ass. So, instead of traditional panty hose, I opted to wear a new pair of nude colored fishnets (that my friend Beck pulls of sooo well!).

Super cute? Hell yeah!

Super comfortable? Hell NO! NO! NO!

How are you supposed to wear these things? Thank God they put regular hose on the bottom of your feet, because walking around on this stuff all day would be impossible! The pain comes from the fishnets rubbing the oh-so-delicate sides of your feet against the sides your shoes.

It’s not like the crazy girls we saw in Las Vegas who were stupid and wore stilettos out dancing. I’m wearing flats! Flats are not supposed to be painful.

Damn… a girl tries and tries and tries… soon I’ll go home and soak my feet.

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

At Last... No Dress Code to Stop Me!!!

Oh Crap! This is late!!!

I joined a Punk Rock Gift Exchange and I was supposed to post this by March 4th. I swear I'm not a slacker!!! I've just got a lot going on. :(

So here it is! And, thanks in advance my secret buddy!

1. How long have you been knitting/crocheting/spinning?
I learned to crochet in 3rd grade… so I was 7 years old? I’m still a novice crocheter but love to do it! I have knit for almost two years now.

2. Do you consider yourself a beginner, novice or experienced yarn artist?
I would consider myself a novice.

3. What fibers (materials) have you knit/crochet with?
Wool, cotton, acrylic

4. What are your favorite yarns?
Soft but not fuzzy.

5. What fibers are you dying to try?
I’d love to work with t-shirt strips.

6. Do you prefer solid, self striping, or hand painted yarns?
I’ve never worked with hand painted yarns, but I love self striping!

7. What fibers do you dislike?
Fuzzy or scratchy

8. What are your favorite colors?
Pinks, reds, browns and black.

9. What are your least favorite colors?
Peachy colors…

10. How did you learn to knit/crochet/spin?
My 87 year old Grandmother taught me how to crochet and knit.

11. What projects are you currently working on?
I’m working on the “We Call Them Pirates” knit-a-long.
I’m making my first ever double knit project, a stocking cap that’s hot pink and black with a skull and cross bones pattern on it.
I’m getting ready to start a stocking hat for a friend.
I’m working on a baby blanket for friends who are expecting.
I just bought my first skein of sock yarn to make socks!


12. How old is your oldest UFO? What is it? Will it ever be finished?
The pink devil hat from Stitch n’ Bitch book, my first knitting book.

13. What is the most heartbreaking project that you ever frogged?
The pink devil hat… I started over three times.

14. Do you prefer straight or circular needles?
I don’t prefer one over the other… I like them both for different reasons… I do love my Denise interchangeables though.

15. Do you own a swift and/or a winder?
Unfortunately, I do not own either.

16. Where do you keep your needles?
Everywhere!

17. Do you enjoy helpful hints about your knitting or does it just piss you off?
I don’t ever assume that my way is the best way. I love feedback!

18. What techniques are you still a virgin in (lace, cables, ect.) and are you interested in trying them?
I’ve not tried cables yet… I’m scared. :)

19. What knitting magazines do you subscribe to?
Interweave Knits

20. Are there any books, needles, yarn, patterns that you are dying to get your hands on?
I would love to knit some Noni bags… I love felted purses!

21. Do you enjoy knitting socks? How big are your feet?
I haven’t ventured into socks (see #11) I wear a size 8 in US women’s shoes.

22. Do you have a wish list?
No, not really. Anything pink and punky is my friend.

23. What are your non-knitting, crochet, spinning hobbies?
Spending time with friends and my Golden Retriever, Lucy… and I sew.

24. How do you feel about sports?
Sports are great!

25. What is your favorite season? Least favorite season? Why?
Fall… I love sweater and jeans weather… Summer, I hate super hot Midwest summers!

26. What is your favorite holiday?
Halloween, who doesn’t like to dress up and pretend you’re someone else?

27. Do you like handmade gifts?
I love handmade gifts… they are from the heart.

28. Do you wear jewelry that isn't real?
The question for me should be… do you own jewelry that IS real? I don’t wear jewelry much, but what I have is mostly fake.

29. What are your favorite foods? Scents that you love?
I love sushi… wine… French fries.
I love the scent Honeydew.


30. What is your family situation? Do you live alone?
As of Saturday… I live alone, unless you count my dog.

31. Do you have any pets?
I have a 3 year old Golden Retriever, Lucy.

32. What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3's?
I like all kinds of music… My favorite is Dave Mathews Band, but I also like: John Mayer, Rosie Thomas, The Killers, Evanescence, Patti Griffin, The All American Rejects, Audioslave, Blue October, Gwen Stephani, Joss Stone, KT Tunstall, Norah Jones, My Chemical Romance, Rufus Wainwright, Social Distortion… I could list more.

33. What are your favorite movies? TV shows? Actors?
Romantic comedies… if only real life were that way too…

34. What do you collect?
Turtles… but only really cool ones.

35. What do you do in real life -- besides knit and blog?
My fancy title is: Senior Program Coordinator

36. When is your birthday? Is it a national holiday or just another day?
December 10th, just another day…

37. Do you have any allergies, medical conditions or disorders that your pal should be aware of (ie. diabetes, food/pet allergies, ect.)?
Nope

38. Are there any scents, phobias, or sensory thing (ie, the way certain objects feel) that your pal should be aware of?
I don’t like the scent of pear… an ex boyfriend really, really, really, really liked pear… the smell is horrifying to me now.

39. What is the most difficult thing that you have ever knit/crochet?
A baby blanket, believe it or not.

40. What is your personal style? Is there a time period/fashion movement that you take your cues from?
I don’t know that I have a style yet… simple, not too jazzy.

41. Anything else that you would like to say?
They really do call me NutScraps.


I'm super sorry this is late!!! I'll stay on top of things better now... I promise!

Monday, March 05, 2007

Why...

Is it that when you make decisions... that you think are the best... for everyone, not just yourself... the point is never expressed right?

It's safe to say that I'm going through a really rough time... I know I'm not the only one, either.

Speculation is the worst... I really am a good person. My intentions are never malicious.

Take it or leave it... Believe it or not... I can't control that.

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

So much stuff!!!

I don't even know where to start!

My dear friend, JR is now in Tokyo... JAPAN! I've never had anyone call me from Japan... yeah, its probably because I'm so cool. I don't know why more people don't call me from super remote locations... I'm fun to talk to, I never run out of things to say... at least that's what my friend Slimm thinks. :)

Anyway, I'm sending out my happy thoughts to JR, hoping he is happy, hoping he is safe, and hoping these next two months pass quickly. I can't wait to see him again... it will be a week of partying like Rock Stars! As it should be.

I started a new job on Monday! I absolutely love it! I'm now co-workers with Toasty; one of my closest friends. We had sushi for lunch yesterday... very yummy sushi.

Other things are happening that are yet to be announced... good in many ways, sad in others... but as I like to think, everything happens for very important reasons. Even if they suck at the time, they make us better people in the end. Well, at least they make me a better person!

I posted my Mardi Gras pics on my myspace page... you should check them out! www.myspace.com/nutscraps. I sure hope that url works!

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Little Men Wearing White Lab Coats in My Brain

I totally find it interesting the way our brain does things to “protect” us.

So I’m upset about something that’s going on right now in my life. At the same time I’m getting ready to start a new job that I’m super stoked about and contemplating a super exciting (but super scary) prospect at the same time.

The 'real' exciting part is my excitement about the new job… I start on Monday and I’ve wanted this for quite some time.

The 'fake' or 'protective' exciting part (that makes me think my brain has gone into protection mode) is this second thing I might do. It’s a BIG step. I’m wondering if I’m only making this bold move so that at a time when I’m devastated about one thing, I’m so excited about the 'fake' exciting thing that the hurt doesn’t happen?

Confused? Yeah… me too.

I don’t normally speak in code… but I just don’t know that I’m ready to talk about it.

So much is going on right now… so many confusing feelings… all big things… I’d just like to sleep... for a long time... and wake up happy and different, all this crap resolved.

Oh, and I’d like to finish my super cool hot pink on black skull and crossbones stocking cap.

I’ll be fine… I always am.

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

And tonight… We dance!

Last night Toast, St. and G finished up our crawfish costumes for tonight’s Mardi Gras parade in the Crossroads District. We shall be at 18th & Wyandotte promptly (or a little late as usual) at 7:15ish.

I’m SO excited! My costume kicks ass! Have you ever seen a crawfish with feathers?

Well, if you are at the parade tonight… you just might!

Come one, come all. Tonight is going to be a blast! Remember… BYOB!

Monday, February 19, 2007

Good people… Even better times...

Saturday night I went to a going away party for a friend who’s moving to Japan for a year to work. I had the B-E-S-T time ever! I was able to catch up with tons of people I haven’t seen in years… it really is such a shame that I lost contact with them in the first place and I'm super bummed that it took a going away party for me to reconnect.

Good people… that’s what they are. I'm lucky that way. I have the best friends ever. New... Old... they are all the best!

How exciting would it be to work in another country! I’m so excited for JR… I just know he’s going to have a great time. Imagine the stories he’ll come back with. I can’t wait to hear them.

Tonight I’m finishing my costume for Fat Tuesday’s Mardi Gras parade in the good ole’ Crossroads District in Downtown KC. A few of us girls will be all dolled up… as crawfish! I can’t wait. The weather should be just wonderful.

I hear the block party starts at 7:30-8ish and we start the parade about 9. The festivities should commence about 11… with plenty of time for me to get home and hit the hay. With this being my last week at the hospital… I need to be clear when here. I was really hoping to slack off this week (you know, like I usually do everyday) but the projects are truly coming out of the woodwork. If I’d only been this busy for the past two years!

Tomorrow night – plenty of canned beer drinking… lots of crawfish dancing… and hopefully a bacon flinging float! Be there or be square!!!

Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Monday, February 12, 2007

Today is turning out to be a KICKASS day!

I got the job!!! I got the job!!! I got the job!!! I got the job!!!

I couldn't be happier.

Now, the hard part. Putting in my notice.

Any advice in how to tell a boss you love, you're leaving?

Please, share the weatlth... of knowledge and experience, that is.

Today... we celebrate!

Friday, February 09, 2007

Hmmm...


HowManyOfMe.com
LogoThere are:
0
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Thursday, February 01, 2007

Today... I am sad.

Monday, January 29, 2007

Home Sweet Home...

Well, we're back from vacation...

Las Vegas has to be one of the best places on earth.

SHD and I LOVE Vegas. We have such a great time there.

I think because of SHD's gambling habits, I just might get to go on another cruise someday... just because there's a casino on board.

Vegas was great.

SHD's Sister and I saw Celine Dion... and I'm proud to say it was one of the best show's I've seen. I really like her... I don't care how much shit I get either. It was amazing.

SHD and I went to the Price Is Right, Live Show... my ticket was a Christmas gift from SHD's Mom and another Sister. We didn't get called up on stage, but it sure was like we were at the original show. We had a blast.

I'm not rich, but I didn't spend near the amount of money I actually took.

Now my only decision is... do I take my extra vacation money and pay some bills... or get that new tattoo I'm considering?

Tomorrow I'll talk about the pipe that burst in the dining room upon our return to frigid KC... but today... I'd like to bask a little more in the great vacation we had.

Friday, January 19, 2007

Why do I watch these things?

Because sometimes they kick ass!

I just love to watch people dance, like really dancing. Probably because I can’t do it. So when I see movies and shows where they dance, and they are really good dancers, I’m a sucker and most likely I’ll watch.

So, I’ll admit that I’ve been recording the “Dirty Dancing” reality dancing show on WE. I pretty much fast forward the bulk of the show (because the actual show is kinda lame) and just watch the final dance where the guy has to choose his “Baby” character.

Last night I watched the most recent new show. They were dancing hip-hop and there was a red-headed gal and a super cool Asian chick (can you tell who I liked best?). The Asian gal, her name was pronounced Va, kicked ass. She was super cool and good. The red-headed gal was OK, I mean, I couldn’t do what she did, but she was stiff and just didn’t move like Va.

So the guy had to pick his partner and said, “there’s only one choice, only one partner that I can take to the championships and win with”. And he chose Va. Kick ass right? No, it gets better.

Va asked for the microphone and asked to speak. She told Mr. “Thinks-he’s-hotter-than-he-really-is”, (this isn’t really a quote, but a run down of how I interpreted her little speach) “I came out here tonight and really rocked it out; dancing is one of the only things that I truly love and just wanted to have fun. This past week, you have taken the fun out of dancing for me. This is where my journey ends.”

So, Mr. “Thinks-he’s-hotter-than-he-really-is” has to choose the other gal to stay in the competition. She’s all like… “you can only win with one person? But that person wasn’t me?” but then agrees to stay in the competition and dance with that creep! Get it… because he’s hot! I see some pretty steep self esteem issues there.

Anyway… I guess you’ll find drama anywhere you look these days.

One more thing… and then I’ll quit, I promise.

People are giving Simon a really hard time for berating people on this year’s American Idol. Please… if you’ve watched the show and you look like a circus freak, how could you NOT expect to be belittled. If you are a parent, please, stop lying to these circus freaks (Mom of the Novela writer) and spare them the embarrassment of looking like a complete ass on television.
IMO, if you go on national TV to try out for something you have absolutely no business doing, you deserve to hear the things Simon has to say. Go Simon!

Thursday, January 18, 2007

I am the Queen of Patience...

Update on the job front...

I have been notified that the interview process for the job I so desperately want... is temporarily on hold. This makes me a little sad.

Apparently, I am the only qualified candidate (my interpretation of what I was told) and they would like more than one person to interview with the department before they make their final decision.

My interpretation of being the only qualified candidate stems from the email I received saying that although they are definitely interested in having me come back for a second interview, they want 2-3 qualified candidates to interview with their department (within the same week) and at this time, they didn't have any others for a second interview... so, that leads me to think that I'm the only person they are interested in hiring at this time.

I wish they would just realize that this job is a perfect fit for me (I actually told her that) and that they are just delaying the inevitable.

I'm the best. They would love me... and I really think I would love them too.

Next week... Las Vegas... I LOVE vacationing with SHD... I can't wait. Send me winning thoughts!

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Ha... Haa... Haaa... Haaaa!

"Dear Lord," the preacher began with arms extended and a rapturous look on his upturned face, "without you we are but dust..."

He would have continued, but at that moment one very obedient little girl (who was listening carefully) leaned over to her mother and asked quite audibly in her shrill little girl voice,

"Mommy, WHAT is butt dust?"

Church was pretty much over at that point...

Tuesday, January 09, 2007

Maybe I’m just a silly romantic…

I’m listening to the soundtrack to Moulin Rouge and I LOVE IT. Moulin Rouge is a truly kick ass movie.

So, the other day a small group of us were talking about books. I’ll admit that I’m not an avid reader. But when I do read, aside from Janet Evanovich (who's a mystery writer), I want it to be something that is mindless, exciting (not kinky), funny and romantic... hopelessly romantic.

I like to read books that make you feel good… not always with a “happily ever after” because sometimes the ending is tragic (i.e. Message in a Bottle, which IMO the movie did NO justice to) but the love story is incredible. Nicholas Sparks and Jennifer Crusie are the authors coming to mind right now that I absolutely love.

I think I inherit from my Mother. I like to be entertained when I read, reading is a relaxing thing and I don’t want to have to think a lot. No, I’m not lazy, either. :)

We also talked about these books portraying an unattainable goal. No man, I don’t care who they are, does the things the men in these books do. Seriously. Have you read the Notebook? That stuff just doesn’t happen.

Don’t get me wrong… I have met many super wonderful men. Even some considered to be pretty romantic and they still don’t do the things written in some of these books… and there’s nothing wrong with that. As long as you’re in love and feel loved, that’s all that really matters.

But just for the record… not giving flowers because “they’re just going to die anyway” is not a good enough excuse not to give them. Girls like them... they don't have to be delivered to the office... they don't have to cost a fortune... hell, steal them from you next door neighbor... we don't care. Flowers make girls happy.

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

Tuesday, January 02, 2007

And a happy new year...

I'm not sure about anybody else... but I drank WAY too much champagne on New Year's Eve! I LOVE cheap champagne!!!

I hope that everyone is happy and safe in 2007. I usually like to stick close to home (thank goodness most of our friends live close by) because I am scared to death of stoopid drunk drivers on New Year's. I was hit head-on when I was 16 by a drunk driver... I don't want to tempt fate by asking for trouble... ya know?

Anybody know where I can find a cheap... cheap, manequin head and dress form?

I need a head to model my stocking hat creations... and a dress form to help me sew something that isn't meant to necessarily fit me.

Anyways... much love to all in 2007!

I hope *fingers crossed* the gym isn't filled to capacity. I'm starting my from "Couch to 5K" tonight... again. I just found out that an old friend ran his first marathon in October. Yay for you! I want to do that too!

Thursday, December 28, 2006

MySpace…

Is not only a place for dirty, nasty, child molesting wierdos… it’s also a place to find friends you haven’t seen in a while.

I don’t spend much time there (it’s banned at work and I seem to only check it after a night of drinking) but I’m always surprised to see a friend request from someone I absolutely adore that I (shamefully)allowed myself to lose contact with.

That’s the thing about who I used to be… I totally lost contact with most of my dear friends when I was dating/engaged/married to my ex-husband. I was lost… I forgot who I was… but only for a bit. What’s sad is that when I finally woke up, the people I used to hang with were not in the same places they were before, you know, because time changes everything.

So I’ve decided that when I once thought it was silly to have a MySpace page (I thought it was silly to drink Boone’s Farm outside of high school parties too…), I’ve decided that MySpace rocks… if for no other reason to see what’s going on in the lives of those I’ve lost contact with.

Thursday, December 21, 2006

This is REALLY Cool...

I just totally fell in love...

I found it here.

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

And now I wait on pins and needles...

I think I NAILED it! *as I grin from ear to ear*

I had the most wonderful interview this morning... she's asked me to come back for a second interview mid-January!

I WANT this job! It sounds perfect for me.

I'm so excited!!!!!!!

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Do me a favor?

I have a job interview tomorrow... I would appreciate you sending your happy thoughts my way.

This job could be a very good thing for me... and I want to do really well.

I just need to remember to... be myself... and what is meant to be... happens!


And... Thanks! for the nice words about my aprons. :) You'll just really have to see them in person... they are so much cuter!

Monday, December 18, 2006

At Last... Pics!

OK, so since Twit was not here to model my aprons, you get the flat/laid on the recliner version.

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This apron is for SHD's Mom... it is a standard design with rounded corners, contrasting ruffle on the bottom, ties around the neck and waist and a small pocket. The apron (including ties) are fully lined in red.

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This apron is for one of SHD's Sisters... it has an empire, gathered waist, fully lined in bright pink with criss-cross ties in the back (yes, the pocket is supposed to be folded down).

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This apron is for another of SHD's Sisters... I love the simplicity of this apron. It is a standard shape lined in lightweight denim and edged with a contrasting fabric with a big pocket in the middle to hold all of your "stuff".

The last apron I'm showing (one I'm re-doing and one I still have yet to make) is one that was originally going to be a gift, but the more I got into it, the more I fell in love with it... sooo, I'm keeping it.

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This is my (one of them) apron... I added darts to fit the bust and there is a diagonal empire type waist. I am not quite finished with this one... I still need to line with bright pink, make the ties around the waist and add a pocket. This fits (and imo looks) more like a dress... if I only wear this apron while cooking... SHD will be eating very good... soon!

I hope you like my pictures... I wish you could see them in person, but since these are gifts, I guess you'll have to wait for your own! (Let me know if you'd like one... I can't promise you'd get it soon, but I will eventually finish all my projects, right?)

A Boy and His Dog...

Here's a thought... I was sent a story about a little 4 year old boy and his feelings about his dog who was dying of cancer and needed to be put to down. After the dog passed this is what he had to say...

"People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice. Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

* You'd better see the disclaimer *

Soon I will be posting pics of my crafting adventures.

*** Beware… I’m thinking pretty highly of myself today *… so if you’re afraid you might barf at my arrogance *… stop now. You've been warned. ***

I think I may have a different Calling. I love crafting!

I love knitting, I love crocheting, and I also love sewing.

With my new found addiction to crafting, I joined a crafting book club. I think it’s funny. I’ve bought all these books… and I’m actually using them! I love it!

One of the books I got was on and about Aprons… you know, we don’t wear aprons as much as we should.

It’s no secret that I don’t really like to cook… I mean, the everyday cooking that you’re supposed to do, like dinner. I like the instant gratification of take-out for dinner. But I do enjoy cooking for special occasions, like Christmas! This Christmas we’re having snack style foods at my Mom’s house (not on Christmas day). I’m bringing my super famous (well really this other lady’s super famous) Crunchy Caramel Apple Pie. It is a very labor intensive apple pie… definitely not easy… but I love making it.

Back to the point… So I’m thinking that if I don’t really enjoy cooking… if I look pretty while I do it… it might be a little better/easier? It’s just a thought… So I’m making one-of-a-kind original NutScraps aprons as Christmas gifts for SHD’s ladies (aka. his Sisters and Mom) and my Aunt and I’ll make one for myself after Christmas. I’m working with a sewing machine, thread, fabric from JoAnn’s and the wildly vivid pictures… pictures in my head. No patterns required… ala from scratch.

It’s so much fun! I’m even thinking I’d like to take sewing lessons… or whatever I can do to learn how to do it better. Don’t get me wrong… they are constructed beautifully (if I don’t say so myself) but I’ll admit things like darts are a struggle, I’ll pull out stitches a few times before its right. I can’t wait to post my pics (first I’ll have to take them though).

*I warned you I was feeling a bit proud today…*

With each apron I make, I like them better and better! I’m really letting go and the ideas are just flowing out. It’s a shame it takes so long for me to create these masterpieces; I could possibly sell them. At least that’s what my Mom says… and I’m not convinced that she’s just saying it because I’m her daughter and she's supposed to think everything I do is amazing.

So, in addition to my fabulously great aprons I’m also making these cute Winter/Christmas themed crochet things for my Grandparents. I think I have a pic around here somewhere… a stocking cap for my Dad and a felted purse for my sister.

Wow. This has turned into the longest post ever! Guess I’m feeling a bit talkative today.

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

I’m torn…

I’m happy… but torn.

First, the happy part.

I’ve got an interview!!! Not just an interview at any old place… and interview where Toast works!!!

List of Pros:
The pay would be more than I’m making now… although not as much as I’d like to make.
My commute would be shorter and I’d be working South of home and wouldn’t have to drive Downtown everyday.
I might be salary instead of hourly.
Toast says the benefits are great and I’d love all the foofy things they do to celebrate different holidays and employee appreciation things (since we’re a not-for-profit hospital there’s not much splurging on fun and entertainment here).
I’d have normal PTO and won’t have to work holidays (even the ones like Martin Luther King, Jr. Day).
I’d work with Toast!

I’d work closer to our group of friends and might be able to go out to lunch on occasion.
I’d get to go out to lunch on occasion… period.
I’d park close to the building I work in and wouldn’t have to ride the “insta-car sickness” shuttle twice a day.

List of Cons:
I really, really like my Boss here. We’ve become good work friends.
I work for a truly great organization… my job may not be the best, but they do really great things here and I’m proud to say that I work here.
Again, I really, really like my Boss and would really hate to leave her.

This is the dilemma I always face when looking for a new job. I don’t like the “leaving” part. It’s not that I feel like I’m quitting… and it’s not that I don’t understand that in order to move forward you have to leave some things behind… it’s also not that I think they won’t get by and find someone just as good as me to replace me (but seriously, is there anyone as good as me?)… I just get anxious and nervous with a huge pit in my stomach at the thought of putting in my notice.

Replacing employees is hard and I feel guilty when I know that my Boss, who’s so busy already, will have to scramble to find someone else to do the (limited) amount of work I do now. Plus, since we’ve become friends, we talk about personal stuff. She confides in me and if I’m gone… who will she confide in? I keep her sane. I guess I’d feel like I was abandoning her.

Wow… think I wear my heart on my sleeve?

Sunday, December 10, 2006

Do I feel older?

Not really... but I never had acid reflux when I was 27. :)

I have had a fantastic day!

I went to breakfast at Succotash with greatest friends... and boyfriend. Went shopping (spent my GC on shoes), took a nap... then had dinner at Sol Azteca with those same friends + one.

I'm truly such a lucky gal. I'm surrounded by people who inspire me to be greater than I am, people who truly care about those around them and people who I love.

My Grandpa and I share the same birthday... today he is 80. I love him... he tells the greatest stories. He knew President Truman... even kept a secret about Bess wrecking their car while he was out of the country on business! :)

I'm such a lucky gal.

So, Happy 28th Birthday to me!

Tuesday, December 05, 2006

Thursday, November 30, 2006

I'm stuck... and not in the snow...

I'm stuck in my office.

We are required to park off-site where I work. Shuttle busses take the employees to and from the parking lot.

Today, with the snow and ice and traffic of downtown KC crazies trying to get home... the busses can't get to and from the hospital in a timely manner.

I waited in line (along with 200+) other people for almost 30 minutes before I turned around, got out of line and went back to my desk.

I've been in my office for almost an hour now... and the line is still there. I can't walk to my car, not only because it's five city blocks away and I don't want to get hit by the crazies who don't know how to drive in the snow, but I'm taking an ass load of work home in hopes that I can work from home tomorrow.

I'm stuck... and I haven't even seen the snow yet.

Oh, and I left my cell phone at home today. I called SHD from my desk phone (I'm amazed I know his phone number) and told him I would call again before I headed home. If it takes longer than 2 hours... I asked him to come look for me on Holmes.

Maybe I'll just take a nap. *wink*

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

At least he knows when he's being bad...

Anyone who has gone out to dinner with me knows they can eat my 'after dinner mint' without even asking.

I hate mint... with an absolute passion. I even use cinnamon toothpaste. The smell of peppermint is the worst... it actually will make me sick to my stomach.

SHD just sent me this message... it made me laugh.

"I'm eating Junior Mints.
It feels kind of dirty."

It's funny. He's vegetarian so I don't bring meat in the house... I hate mint, so he doesn't bring mints into the house. I guess the difference is, I'll eat meat in front of him and not feel a thing.

Bwahahahah! I am the devil.

Monday, November 27, 2006

Oooohhh! Screw You...

Mr. Black Fuzzy Cover for my earphones!

You fell off! And now my earphones just aren't the same!

Damn you!

Monday, November 20, 2006

I am a Girl Who Wears Many Hats...

I am an Administrative Assistant… sometimes known as Girl Wonder.

I can do it all…

I can schedule your meetings.
I can plan your corporate functions.
I can keep you straight and have you going to all the right places… just one time.
I can coordinate your meetings and keep copious notes.
I can organize your office and files... in just one afternoon.
I can have lunch delivered at the last minute... without breaking a sweat.

I can assemble office furniture, mail carts… without reading the instructions.

And today I can say…

When you’re leading New Employee Orientation for fifty people and the heel breaks off of your brand new shoe… causing you to hobble out of said presentation, through the halls of the hospital making your way to my office…

Give me a couple of minutes, a hammer and some pliers…

And I can fix your shoe, after which appearing never to have failed you… letting you walk with dignity back to your office to dwell in your little pool of embarrassment.

Damn! I'm good.

Thursday, November 16, 2006

Gray Day...

I have lost nine friends… some to accidents, some to suicide… none from actual medical problems. And all this happened when I was 17-23 years old.

I’ve been very fortunate in these last few years, I’ve only been to one funeral since 2003 (and that was just two weeks ago – for someone who lived a long and wonderful life).

But for a while, I was pretty messed up about it.

For so many years (late teens, early twenties) I was lost. The friends I made were wonderful… there’s not much I would change… I just wish I had the insight I have now (I know, who doesn’t?) and knew who I was a little better.

Losing friends is hard… especially when you feel like they are dropping like flies.

My most recent friend to pass died in a car accident while leaving the graduation ceremonies of friends at Northwest Missouri State. He fell asleep at the wheel and was hit by a semi traveling in the other lanes. I’ll never forget Donnie. We were close. He went on a family ski trip with me during my Freshman year of high school. We became friends in seventh grade (as all the grad schools combine for junior high) and were remained close through our Sophomore year (then I started working and ended up graduating a year early). We were always ‘just friends’ which I think is why we were able to stay close during those crazy teen years.

I think it’s the cold gray day that’s making me sentimental. It’s these days that I’d give anything for a hot cup of tea, a warm blanket, and my boyfriend to snuggle with.

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

Don't accept your dog's admiration as conclusive evidence that you are wonderful.

-Ann Landers

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

More Office Drama...

Have you ever had a conversation with someone (say... an office buddy) where during the entire conversation you have the "ewww" look on your face... yet they don't stop talking?

If I don't ask how your weekend went... chances are... I don't want to hear about it.


Ewww! They were putting shots (not the kind that keeps you from getting the flu) in her bra!

What American accent do you have?
Your Result: The West

Your accent is the lowest common denominator of American speech. Unless you're a SoCal surfer, no one thinks you have an accent. And really, you may not even be from the West at all, you could easily be from Florida or one of those big Southern cities like Dallas or Atlanta.

The Midland
Boston
North Central
The Inland North
Philadelphia
The South
The Northeast
What American accent do you have?
Take More Quizzes

Wednesday, November 08, 2006

Where did the "Do Over" go?

Why is it that when you do stupid shit, you can't have a "do over"?

I've done a stupid thing... went about something important in a stupid way... and now I can't take back the way I did it.

That sucks.

Why do we have to grow up... and be grown ups?

I miss the days of "do over"s.

Tuesday, November 07, 2006

Do you ever wish you could just turn it off?

Friday, November 03, 2006

*Fingers drumming on my desk*

There's nothing for me to do at work... and I had to come back from Iowa... to do nothing.

SHD and I headed to Iowa on Wednesday evening to attend his Grandmother's funeral yesterday. I had to drive separate because I needed to be back at work on Friday (you've all heard me talk about the messed up paid time off system here).

So, I'm here... tired from the last few days events... without a single work related thing to do.

So... I'll play solitare on my iPod. It's a shame that I can't bring in a book or something.

Friday, October 27, 2006

Karma... It Gets Me Everytime...

Last night I made fun of my boyfriend with “wine teeth”… It was really funny.

This morning I woke up with a “third eye” pimple.

Ugh… I hate third eye pimples!

Wednesday, October 25, 2006

I’ve found a new love…

Red bean ice cream balls from Jun’s.

They are delightful.

I had 3 last night.

Tuesday, October 24, 2006

It’s the little things…

We're celebrating today...

I’ve only snapped myself once today with my new trusty rubber band.

My office buddy is trading offices with another person in my department! Someone I get along with really well!

Yay!!! Yay!!! Yay!!!

Oh... I’m also in need of a little advice. I need to know what I’m supposed to do when someone I love is really sad and there’s nothing I can do to fix it. I’m a fixer and I just feel like I need to DO something… when there really is nothing to do.

Should I just snap myself when I try to cheer him up? Should I not try to cheer him up? I want to give him his space… but I also want him to know I’m supportive… and even though I’ve told him I’ll do anything I can… I’m afraid that he won’t take me up on it unless I’m asking at the time… which makes me want to ask often. But I don't want to smother...

Let me know what you’d do.

Monday, October 23, 2006

You know… It’s really not all about me.

This weekend SHD and I took an “emergency” type trip to Iowa. I watched people I love saying their final goodbyes to someone they love. What a humbling day.

I think it’s time to re-evaluate some things in my life.

As long as the people you love are well – physically and mentally there really is no other reason to be unhappy. Work will always suck, you’ll never have enough money for the things you think you need, you’ll never have enough time to do the things that seem important… but as long as you are able to talk/see/touch those you love, that is all that should matter.

I’m going to start wearing a rubber band on my wrist. Every time I start to get upset about something that doesn’t matter, I’m going to snap it really hard… to remind me of what matters and to let everything else go. Eventually, I'll stop worrying about those silly things, Right?

Because all those other things… just… don’t… matter.

So, here's to making those things that do matter... the only things that upset me.

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

For the record…

Today is not starting out to be a good day… the office buddy from hell returned a day early from vacation. This saddens me beyond belief.

In general, I have something on my mind that I need to express.

I believe that blogging is a pretty self absorbed activity… I mean, we write about ourselves, what we’re feeling, thinking, doing and pretty much using it as a sounding board to vent.

If you don’t want people to know what you’re doing, thinking, feeling and such… you have two options as I see it.

#1 Don’t write it.
#2 Don’t tell your friends, co-workers, neighbors and family about your blog.

Let’s face it. We all live in glass houses. I’ll admit to shit talking occasionally. Hell, I’ve been the Queen of Shit Talking at times… but who the fuck hasn’t.

So, to those who think it’s necessary to throw stones in my glass house.

Fuck you.

Now, go have a great day.

Tuesday, October 17, 2006

Do they have a support group for such things?

Have you ever become emotionally involved with something that is… not real?

It’s one thing to cry every single time you watch Extreme Makeover: Home Edition… I mean, they do really nice things for people who truly deserve it. But have you ever been really into a show that you cry during every (or almost every) episode?

I’m addicted to Grey’s Anatomy. And it isn’t real. Izzy isn’t real, Denny didn’t die, and Derrick should be a cheating rat bastard. Yet, I feel for Izzy, cried hard when Denny died, and love Derrick.

I’m so sick that when I hear the songs that are either played during the show or on the commercials (Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol and Come on Over by Rob Thomas) I can actually see Izzy, Meredith and Cristina in my mind. I even wonder what they would possibly be doing.

The latest in the Izzy/Denny saga is that Denny left Izzy $8.7 million. I should be happy that Izzy is rich, instead I’m still distraught for her that Denny is dead and she’ll spend the rest of her life without the person she was meant to be with.

IT IS A SHOW! IT'S NOT REAL! Goodness!

The problem is… I love this show. I look forward to watching it. I record the shows on my DVR so I don’t miss a thing. I even watch each episode more than once.

The first step is admitting it right? Yeah…

But has this happened to you?

Saturday, October 14, 2006

This is a totally drunk post...q

I love my friends...

So heree;s to dinner at Il Central...

And winne...

And Monopoly when I'm too drunk kto finish.




I love my firriennddds...

Tahat is all... and no worries.. . I'm not driving... because I have a wonder ful booooyfriend.

Thursday, October 05, 2006

My ears are bleeding...

I actually just heard my office buddy (who is an adultress and speaks to her 'man' on the phone multiple times every day) utter these words...

"I don’t know how my schedule will be later this afternoon… it’s possible that I could squeeze you in… if you know what I mean."

Ewww...

The only thing to make this worse is if she calls her husband next and does the cochy coo with him too...

I shouldn't have drank that entire bottle of wine last night.

Wednesday, October 04, 2006

For the Record…

No, Sammy… you cannot share my pillow.

Why?

Because I said SO!

I will continue to move you… no matter how many times you creep your way back up. It’s enough that I let you sleep in the middle… you won’t sleep between our heads.

You’re cold?

Go sleep in your nice fluffy fleece-on-the-inside dog bed. I bought it especially for you… Lucy’s too big to steal it from you. It's warm... I promise... give it a try! I’m glad you’ve used it twice… let’s work on expanding that number.

I can hear you snore when you’re in the middle or even sometimes when you're at the foot of the bed; I can’t sleep with you breathing in my ear. Plus, you lick your ass! I don’t want to smell that. I know that’s hard to believe, as you do this so often.

And no, I don’t enjoy feeling your gritty little paw pushing me on the back of the neck. It is MY pillow and I will not move over so you’re more comfortable.

To make this fair… Lucy stop moaning in the hallway!

I’m tired today… there wasn’t much sleeping last night.

Sammy and Lucy… if anyone tells you about this… you know I love you.

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

I just made someone's day... I think...

I just told someone in the hallway that her zipper was down.

And now I laugh.

Where's the justice in that?

I really don’t understand what is going on with our world.

People are going into schools and shooting children. And instead of telling people why, or at least spreading whatever filth they have in their shit filled heads... they kill themselves, and don't have to face any consequences... at least not here.

Three schools are attacked in a little over one week.

I never felt unsafe at school. I really feel bad for kids in school these days.

Not only do people go to school with the intention to molest, maim and kill others… some come with guns and knives just waiting for someone to start a fight with them. And even fist fights aren't fair anymore. No one just "gets their ass kicked".

These are the people who will be running the world when I’m old.

I'm scared to death at this thought.

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

I used to be a law abiding citizen…

Last night St. and I went to get pedicures and dinner instead of heading to the gym… anything to avoid excercise, right?

We had a super fantastic time… until it was time for us to part ways. I believe it was typical St. and NutScraps fashion – St. laughing so hard she almost pees and me freaking out.

Here’s how it went down…

Driving down Ward Parkway, chatting it up and the light turns red. I turn on my blinker as we will be turning left to get to St.’s house. I make my turn and continue through the light ....

All of a sudden there are lights flashing and sirens blaring!!! I was getting pulled over!

NutScraps: “What?@#(!? St., am I getting pulled over?”

St.: “Yes! You need to pull over!”

NutScraps: “What did I do?!@#$?”
I am now frantic and remove my seat belt, freak out that I took off my seat belt but was afraid to put it back on because if he saw me, he might think I was just putting it on because I was getting pulled over… all the what if’s flowing at about 90 mph in my head.

Officer walks up to the car.

Officer: “Ma’am, why is it that you stopped, waited thirty seconds and then turned with me right behind you?”

NutScraps: “I don't understand... I had my blinker on.”

Officer: “Yes, but you made a left hand turn at a RED LIGHT.”

NutScraps: “WHAT!?! St.! Did I run a red light?!? Oh my God, I DID run a red light!”

St.: “HAHHA! HAHAHAH! AAHAH! AHAH!!!” (laughing hysterically)

Officer: “And when I pulled up the guy who was stopped next to you looked over at me, and I HAD to pull you over.”

NutScraps: “Oh my goodness! I didn’t even know that was a red light!”

St.: “HAHHA! HAHAHAH! AAHAH! AHAH!!!” (continues to laugh hysterically)

Officer: “What exactly was going on that you didn’t realize the red light?”

NutScraps: “I don’t know… we were just talking… oh my God, I am SO SORRY.”

Officer: “Can I see your license please?”

Officer takes NutScrap’s license back to his patrol car.

St.’s husband, walking by with the dog… “You have NO respect for the law!!! Officer, she has no respect for the law!”

NutScraps: “Shut up! I do too!

Officer walks back to the car.

Officer: “Let’s evaluate the situation… You ran a red light and you’re not wearing a seat belt.”

NutScraps: interrupting Officer “But I was wearing my seat belt! I just started to freak out… I haven’t been pulled over since I was 18 years old!”

Officer: interrupting NutScraps “Wait! I didn’t see you with your seatbelt on.”

NutScraps: “OK, sorry.”

Officer: “You don’t even have as much as a speeding ticket on your record. So, I want to you save your deep meaningful conversations with friends for home… not while you're driving. Here’s your license, drive save tonight.”

NutScraps: “Oh, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You, again, I am SO SORRY.”

And St. was still laughing… I think she’s the real reason I didn’t get a ticket.

It’s so funny… we were just talking about warnings from police. I’ve never gotten a warning… but I have gotten 2 speeding tickets. I’ve now received my warning and I will try really hard to be a very attentive driver from now on.

I was in frantic mode for about 15 more minutes, and then relived the whole thing when I got home and gave SHD the same play-by-play you’ve just read. He wasn't surprised... he actually said that a bomb could go off and if St. and I were talking, we'd never know what happened.

I wanted to add a pic of me and St. taken a few months ago at our friend, Mrs. Ireland's wedding. It shows this situation perfectly... St. laughing her ass off... and me in panic mode (she'd just popped off my toenail!). But Blogger is not working, so I'll have to post it later. :(

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

What’s really in a nickname?

Do we even really consider them “nicknames”?

My family thinks it’s really strange that I’ve always had nicknames and all my friends have also.


It really is their fault… I mean there are like 3 million Jennifers in the world. I even recall the story of when I was born and the nurse asked my Mom what my name would be. My Mom said, “her name is Jennifer”… and the nurse replied with, “really? There’s already been twelve other Jennifers this week”.

There were at least ten Jennifers in my grade growing up so to be different we all had nicknames.

The first ones were JT or Jen T. Then there was junior high where I was SuperTube and TubeSocks on the co-ed volleyball team. Then in high school I was Flo for a bit then I started working restaurants which led to TubeSwing and eventually just Tubes. Tubes stuck with me all through my Outback years… actually, some people didn’t even know my real name.

After Outback I was just Jen… then I had a stint in the virtual world as Ketura... and now I’m Nutscraps or Scraps.

My sister thinks it’s really strange. She doesn’t understand why we don’t just call each other by our names. She doesn’t have nicknames and none of her friends do either.

Why do some people have nicknames and others don’t?

Is it because I am a part of a fantastic-creative-free-living-spirited-left-brained bunch and my sister is a financial analyst (square)?

Monday, September 25, 2006

Everybody’s got demons, right?

I mean, those things that no matter what good things are going on in your life… even when most everything in your life is going good… those things that get you down, and it seems like no one can make it better?

I’ve been dealing with some demons… my very own demons.

Lots of great things have been going on. SHD and I celebrated a wonderful anniversary weekend, we’ve gone out and done fun things, we’re planning our next trip to Las Vegas next January, we’ve been spending time with our great circle of friends, I’m compiling a list of all the songs that make me feel good, I mean - I could go on and on.

I’ve been having a lot of fun!

And still, I find it hard to get out of bed each morning. Not because I dread the day to come… I’d just rather sleep.

I’m just so tired.

I can tell you though… I’m SUPER excited that it’s Fall once again. Fall is my all-time favorite season. I looooove Fall.

I’m getting ready for some quality hammock lounging time with my honey.

Friday, September 15, 2006

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

I love checking out the entertainment section on MSN.com... I'll admit I find celebrities and their lives just that... entertaining. They chose that life for themselves, if there weren't people like me, they wouldn't be popular, right?

Enough already with Tom Cruise being in the media!

The next Howard Hughes? Pft! He’s a fruitcake yes; do I think he’s fruity? Who cares?

The latest news reads something about someone publishing a book with a chapter revealing him and his gay lifestyle… as long as you’re not Katie Holmes, why do we care? If he’s gay, great! If he’s not, great! It’s none of our business!

And all the hype about their baby? People actually speculating that there wasn’t a baby? Geez people! I’m sure Katie walked around looking like a continent just for show, right? If I was her, I’d be afraid to show my baby… people are crazy. I mean, Rosie O’Donnell didn’t show pictures of her kids for like years!!! There was no, “where’s Parker” hype.

Let’s move on… let’s leave them alone. I’m so over them… as should everybody else.

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

I'm getting all giddy inside...

Saturday, SHD and I celebrate the one year anniversary from our first date...

I remember it like it was yesterday. *sigh*

We went for drinks on the 14th, our first date was on the 16th, I knew I was in love on the 19th.

I think September is a good month for me.

We decided to get a suite at Ameristar on Sunday (to save some $) night, eat dinner at Bugatti's and drink lots of wine... I'm sure there will be some gambling... Ameristar, please be as kind as the Isle of Capri.

Career Dilemmas...

It’s no secret that I’m looking for a new job. I’ve been looking since January. I sent out probably 100 resumes and I’ve only had two interviews (one resulted in a second interview).

I’ve been told by my father that I’m “doing the same thing again and expecting a different result” which is the recipe for insanity. I think that’s a quote by someone dead and famous, but I don’t know who.

I don’t like my job being an admin… yet I keep applying for admin positions. What exactly am I looking for? I still have no idea what I really want to do, and believe me, I’m not being lazy and just going along with the daily grind. I’ve really thought about this. And yet I still don’t know.

I’m debating a few things right now…

I could apply to be a Police 911 dispatcher… I knew a guy (who’s now a KCK police officer) who told the greatest stories of being a dispatcher while in high school. I think I might like that.

Also, here at the hospital, they’ve offered to pay for classes to become a certified coder. It would be a year of schooling (online) and I would be required to work at the hospital for one full year after completion of the classes (or pay back the fees)… I would audit patient accounts and make sure they are coded (charged) correctly. There is high demand for coders... and it's possible that down the line I could telecommute... which I think I would love. It's using numbers and looking at charts and symbols and technical stuff... not really a social job, I know.

Since I don’t know what I want to do… it seems that someone offering to pay for me to learn something new sounds like a smart move. Knowledge is power, right?

I know I don’t like what I’m doing now, but will I like doing what I’m doing here somewhere else?

Monday, September 11, 2006

Just a few Scraps…

This weekend was pretty mellow. SHD is sick with the sore throat/now hurty coughing sickness. He rested and I boosted my immune system all weekend long.

The little girl came over on Saturday evening… the moment I opened the door, she said, “I’m sorry for what happened last week”.

I took the opportunity to have a talk with her then let her play with the dogs. The biggest challenge was getting Lucy to go outside with us… she’s really hesitant to be around the Little Girl. I explained that Lucy’s feelings were really hurt and she’s afraid that LG might hit her again. I told her that if she did hit her again, I’m afraid that Lucy would bite her. I made LG promise that she would never hit Lucy again, and she did. I also told her, that because Lucy needs to trust her again, I needed to be outside with her if she is in the yard.

So, situation over (hopefully) and I no longer have to worry about it. Oh, and I really don’t hate kids, really… I was having a manic week when that all happened and was a little clouded to see beyond my own little space. She’s not going to grow up to be a serial killer. She’s just a little girl who made a mistake… as long as she doesn’t do it again, we’re all good.

Sunday was my last weekend shift at the pet store. I’m just so tired of shuffling everything around to manage it. Hopefully now, I’ll feel more relaxed and able to stop multi-tasking my personal life. This is a good thing. My last shift is this Thursday.

Does anyone else feel this way about post-its? I was a little bummed this morning. I used my very last pink post-it. I love colored (not yellow) post-its; actually, I love the pink and like the green ones. But we are out of colored post-its, so I must use the yellow ones. Ugh...

Thursday, September 07, 2006

No title today, just getting by...

I’m tired. That’s my excuse, my excuse for being MIA… cause it’s not like I don’t have plenty to talk about.

SHD and I had a super busy but super fun Labor Day weekend.

First and foremost… you are reading the words of the luckiest girl in the world (at least last Friday evening at the Isle of Capri casino, that is). We’d never been to the Isle and were celebrating with friends…

I’m not a high stakes gambler, actually it makes me a little sick to lose my money, so I play the video slot machines… in the penny denomination. Even while playing penny slots, I’m still quite conservative. I’ll play 10 or 15 lines, but I only bet one penny per line… that’s just the way I roll (er… spin).

After losing $10 on a silly Taxi slot, I sat down at the Enchanted Unicorn, next to SHD on a Kenny Rogers slot. I played down to about $4 when I hit 3 WILD ENCHANTED UNICORNS!!! What does this mean? It means that the nine middle squares all turned WILD and I won 67400 pennies!!! I won $674.00 on a 15 cent spin!

It was cool… I was a little overwhelmed, and had to call my Mom, but all was good. I bought a few rounds of drinks and left with about $650 in my pocket. That, my friends, just paid the sales tax on my new car.

After almost killing my dear Beagle, Sammy on Saturday (I have a horrible burn on my foot from his lead in the yard), we packed up the new Element in our little family and headed East (ask SHD about the headache on the drive, hee hee)… en route to Rocheport, specifically Les Bourgeois winery. We checked in our bags, met up with friends (B and E) at the Days’ Inn in Columbia and headed to the A Frame, a great outdoors place that overlooks the Missouri River Valley. It was so nice. The weather was perfect, the food was great and the friends and conversation were fantastic. We had an absolutely amazing time. I know we'll plan another trip out there this Fall.

After about five hours, approximately six bottles of wine and many drunken pictures on the way up to the parking lot, we taxi’d it back to the Days’ Inn… and it was only 9:30pm! After a few minutes of conversation, this Scraps passed out cold.

We woke up on Sunday morning about 8:30am to have time to search for an IHOP (no laughing!) and ended up at a Country Kitchen just off the highway. I was H-U-N-G-O-VE-R, yes, in all caps, spaced out like that and in green. I was the only one who was hungover! I swear, it wasn’t fair. SHD was dancing a little jig around me in the hotel room, just the movement alone was almost enough to make me hurl. Our day had just begun… I knew it was going to be a long… albeit fun, one.

The drive home was just darn painful. I felt like I was dying… and SHD was in the passenger’s seat lounging it up, even yawning some... I hit him a few times.

Once home, I napped for about 30 minutes, then it was off to L and St.’s house for a quick appearance at their BBQ. I was so happy to meet L’s Mom, she really seemed great. I wish I had been in better spirits, I’m sure I could have chatted her ear off. And I wish I could have been there for the encounter with the neighbors... fucking weirdos.

Just as soon as we’d arrived, it seemed we were leaving (which made me a little sad), this time I made SHD drive, we were headed north to Platte City for SHD’s Dad’s birthday gathering. I really enjoy getting together with my boyfriend’s family… they really are really great. After a few sips of a Bloody Mary (I think K suggested this at the BBQ) the headache was better and I was back in the game… at least a little more in the game.

Monday was a day of healing… I slept in, mowed the lawn and watched the Law and Order, SVU marathon on TNT.

Tuesday I put my two weeks (minus one day) in at the pet store… it’s just taking too much time away from other things that are important to me… I will be missing that extra paycheck every two weeks though.

If you’ve read this… you’re either overly interested in the daily dealing of good ole’ Nutscraps, or you’re really bored. Either way is good for me.

So, I still feel like I’m recovering. But, just so you know, if you ever need a gift idea for me… I LOVE Fleur De Vin from Les Bourgeois. Support your local wineries! I do... now.

Friday, September 01, 2006

My new friend... Roger.

Look to the right and meet Roger.

When you scroll over the image, you will see a red arrow. Click the arrow in the water and Roger will go for a swim. Awww. ;)

Also, he will look towards the red arrow.

Yeah, I know I'm a dork.

Have a great holiday weekend... I'm stoked, I actually get Monday off!

Thanks Dad, I love the email...

This is an email I just received from my Father... God, I love him.

WOULDN'T IT BE GREAT TO TURN ON THE TV AND HEAR ANY U.S. PRESIDENT,DEMOCRAT OR REPUBLICAN GIVE THE FOLLOWING SPEECH?

My Fellow Americans: As you all know, the defeat of Iraq regime has been completed. Since Congress does not want to spend any more money on this war, our mission in Iraq is complete.

This morning I gave the order for a complete removal of all American forces from Iraq . This action will be complete within 30 days. It is now to begin the reckoning.

Before me, I have two lists. One list contains the names ofcountries which have stood by our side during the Iraq conflict.This list is short. The United Kingdom , Spain , Bulgaria , Australia , and Poland are some of the countries listed there.

The other list contains everyone not on the first list. Most of the world's nations are on that list. My press secretary will be distributing copies of both lists later this evening.

Let me start by saying that effective immediately, foreign aid to those nations on List 2 ceases immediately and indefinitely. The money saved during the first year alone will pretty much pay for the costs of the Iraqi war.

The American people are no longer going to pour money into third world Hell-holes and watch those government leaders grow fat on corruption. Need help with a famine? Wrestling with an epidemic? Call France.

In the future, together with Congress, I will work to redirect this money toward solving the vexing social problems we still have at home. On that note, a word to terrorist organizations. Screw with us and we will hunt you down and eliminate you and all your friends from the face of the earth. Thirsting for a gutsy country to terrorize? Try France, or maybe China.

I am ordering the immediate severing of diplomatic relations with France, Germany, and Russia. Thanks for all your help, comrades. We are retiring from NATO as well. Bon chance, mes amis.

I have instructed the Mayor of New York City to begin towing the many UN diplomatic vehicles located in Manhattan with more than two unpaid parking tickets to sites where those vehicles will be stripped, shredded and crushed. I don't care about whatever treaty pertains to this. You creeps have tens of thousands of unpaid tickets. Pay those tickets tomorrow or watch your precious Benzes, Beamers and limos be turned over to some of the finest chop shops in the world. I love New York!

A special note to our neighbors. Canada is on List 2. Since we are likely to be seeing a lot more of each other, you folks might want to try not pissing us off for a change. Mexico is also on List 2. President Fox and his entire corrupt government really need an attitude adjustment. I will have a couple extra tank and infantry divisions sitting around. Guess where I am going to put em? Yep, border security. So start doing something with your oil.

Oh, by the way, the United States is abrogating the NAFTA treaty - starting now. We are tired of the one-way highway. Immediately, we'll be drilling for oil in Alaska - which will take care of this country's oil needs for decades to come. If you're an environmentalist who opposes this decision, I refer you to List 2 above: pick a country and move there. They care.

It is time for America to focus on its own welfare and its own citizens. Some will accuse us of isolationism. I answer them by saying, "darn tootin." Nearly a century of trying to help folks live a decent life around the world has only earned us the undying enmity of just about everyone on the planet. It is time to eliminate hunger in America . It is time to eliminate homelessness in America . It is time to eliminate World Cup Soccer from America . To the nations on List 1, a final thought. Thanks guys. We owe you and we won't forget. To the nations on List 2, a final thought: You might want to learn to speak Arabic.

God bless America . Thank you and good night. If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you are reading it in English, thank a soldier.

If only...