Wednesday, December 31, 2008

A Time of Reflection

It has been an interesting year. My extended family has grown by 2 wonderful babies. David and Angela having Zachery September 19th. Lillie and Jason following closely behind with Evelyn on November 20th. The are both healthy babies, with a very happy and proud Aunt!

Little Dylan is growing fast and loves to chatter. He seems to know many words and is running around and starting to get into everything. He is at such a fun age ( and I think he will just get to be more fun as he gets older). I hope next year he will open his own Christmas gifts. Though it was fun to watch this year as Becky tried to get him to help, he was just too busy with the toys that had been opened and maybe didn't realize that all the pretty boxes contained even more toys. Maybe he just wanted to play with what he had been given so far, all I know is that it was cute.

Pat got laid off this year. He found a new job with in a few months. He likes the new job better so it turned out to be a (stressful) blessing in disguise. Funny how that works.

I survived a round of Layoffs. Who knows if that was the only round but for now I have a Job. Past experience says companies rarely have only one round but only time will tell.

We were both happy to spend time with our families for the holidays. Though skiing was not an option. It snowed before we got to Rochester, and after. But while we were visiting it rained and was just awful weather. Hopefully we will have better luck with the rest of the winter!

Have a Happy and Healthy new Year!

Monday, December 29, 2008

Distinguishing Titles

When returning to work today talking about the holidays was a common occurrence. My one friend drove down to see her boyfriend in NC. She had the children Christmas eve then dropped them off at her EX-husbands house for the rest of the week. Unfortunately when I was speaking with her I commented on how great it was that her husband had the children on her break from work. Lucky for me she thought it was funny.

The thought of dropping the kids off at the husbands, to drive out to the boyfriends house, Sigh. My dad loves to say that words have meanings. I have to admit that they do and though it can be funny when someone speaks incorrectly, it could also seriously offend. I just don't seem to hear the mistake and many times I don't even realize what I said until someone points it out to me.

Saturday, December 27, 2008

The Mist

Today I got to live one of King's short stories. Ok so the fog was not always that thick, but it was some of the worst fog I have ever seen and Driving was not lots of fun (Lucky for me pat took the worst of it, as he usually does). The interesting thing about this fog was that it seemed to originate from the melting snow. It was so warm outside that the snow was going from solid to gas in one step, that's what it looked like in the shallower parts anyway.

The fog strangely lasted all day. We drove through it in the morning to do our shopping and then to go to Becky and Doug's for dinner. We cooked a nice dinner if I don't say so myself. After dinner we broke out the Wii. I'm very sad that I hate the graphics as the games are fun. It just bothers me soo much that the baseball things don't have legs or arms. (which is a common problem with the graphics). To anyone that works with the Wii games PLEASE fix it, I would love to be the happy owner of the system, I just can't until your characters are fixed.

Anyway I drove home in said mist, it was mostly gone but in a few places it snuck up on me and I had to break a little harder then I would have liked. At least if their was someone behind me (which their rarely is in that part of Palmyra). The fog would have reflected the red light signaling to all within a mile that I have stopped so they should too. We made it home safe and sound.

Relaxing bu the fire makes the fog a distant memory.

Friday, December 26, 2008

Post Holiday Technology

The Rodman's got a new PlayStation 3 for Christmas (Jon got the old one as he confiscated the old one a few months ago). They needed the blue ray player to play some movies and already had games so they spent the little extra to buy the game system.

Tonight they are setting it up. It's too bad I did not have any popcorn, though they seem as though they will be successful and they worked well together they definitely gave each other a hard time. You can learn allot about people trying to set up technology.

Below are the photo's I took as they worked hard. I suppose I should have helped but I do have a headache that has been threatening me for the afternoon. That and I'm amused bu the back and forth, Mom trying to desifer the directions and dad trying to let her know what he's working on. Mom then trying to call for help with dad wanting to figure it out. It's great!

Loosing the Rodman's Dog

I love walking Lexus while we are home. Sometimes Pat comes with me and we have a nice long walk. Today was one of those days.

It was Icy as anything and we were both having problems staying on our feet (Patrick more then Myself). I was the one with the dog who incidentally loves to pull on the leash ever since Pat taught her to run after squirrels and other little fuzzy animals. I kept her on a short leash to help keep me on my feet. I wish I had a great reason for loosing the dog, like falling on the ice, but sadly it was not the case.

Half way into the walk the dog had to go potty, after she was done I gave her to Patrick to hold so I could clean up her mess. upon removal of the toxic waste I went to take the dog back and I dropped the leash (or we did but I thought I had it so I'm taking credit). She took off.

She only sometimes comes to her name and when she knows she will be caught all the screaming in the world will not get her to come to her name. Unfortunately the screaming we were doing was enough to scare some guy out of his front yard when he could have been helping us. I don't blame him for going inside when an out of control dog he didn't know runs into his yard, Pat does. Even though she stopped to look up at every tree it took 4 houses to get to the same yard. Miraculously when i called her again she ran towards me, swerving at the last moment. I dove but missed. Covered in snow I tried again and this time she came. I got a hold of the leash, the rest of the walk was not as happy as my one glove was too wet to be usable and we were not risking a switch again.

As we walked up to the house down the driveway (still with dog in hand, but no pulling), I hit a very smooth patch of black ice and fell right to the ground. I can't believe I made it with all the pulling around the block only to fall on my ass on the driveway, but no I did not loose the dog again.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Merry Christmas

Today started with the Rodman's for a traditional Christmas breakfast. I love that egg casserole. And lots of presents, maybe next year Dylan will take more delight in opening his gifts, Becky did most of the unwrapping while Dylan played with a few of his new toys.

We went for Dinner at the Kidd's and when we got there we found out that the dinner was post-poned 2.5 hours, Sigh. I was hungry but had to wait due to a miscommunication. Mom postponed dinner because we were coming so late she thought we would want to open gifts first and hang out. She miscalculated my love of food and desire for turkey. Luckily my mother is very love able and the presents were distracting.

I got to see Evelyn (a photo will be posted later). She is a cutie.

Friday, December 19, 2008

The Snow is Falling

It luckily for me did not hit before the morning commute. I made it in on time and with out snow. Around 9:30-10:00 the snow started. At first they were cute little flakes but turned into very pretty full snowflakes. The problem with that in NJ is they don't plow and they get so few storms a year they just can't drive in it (it's not easy). Around 1PM I gave up and asked to work from home, Instead I went to the office a few miles from my house. It took about an hour and a half of driving (which is not the worst my commute has ever been) and was not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. It was a nice change of pace to work from an office, I only helped a little on the phone but it reminded me how much I have specialized in one area. Their are a whole lot of rates and situations that I just don't see anymore.

Also working in a branch is distracting, but working in a back office is too boring. I need the distraction of other employees, at least a little, but being at the office the distractions are less pressing and I can get lots more work done.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Waiting for Snow in NJ

Say snow in NJ and everyone PANICS. They are calling for 6-12 inches tomorrow (some weather stations are calling for less). this has been the office topic of conversation for at least 2 days.

Some of this excitement is hope for a snow day, yes we all know it is not going to happen, but we can hope. The rest is dreading driving on the snow covered roads. NJ is not great at clearing snow. The Radar is not showing anything fun at this time so pat is sceptical that any snow will fall. I think it will fall and can only hope that I get out early enough to make it home while the roads are still fairly safe.

I still can't believe after all this time I have to worry about 6-12 inches of snow.

***** Update *****

Pat checked the radar both last night and this AM. It looks like a pretty big storm is coming our way.

Thanks for the Concert

Cooling down on the treadmill I was treated to a little concert from the lady on the bike next to me. At first I couldn't figure out what the heck she was singing as she was not singing along with the radio, but then I saw the cords and realised that she was singing along to her mp3 player. Should I let her know or just let her sing? It was not great to listen to but I only had a few minutes left. I chose not to tell her, I got the impression she knew that she was singing.

That and my time was up and I didn't have to listen anymore.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Crowds

Today at the gym was crowded. When I got there the tow treadmills that are rickety were open as well as the recumbent bike (I should have chosen the bike). In addition to the treadmill shaking as I walk (I refuse to run on it) I am facing the elliptical machine. Not the person's face but their ass. I spent 20 minutes pondering some lady's ass. It was big and the fat was kind of lumpy. (I can only imagine what the person walking behind me was thinking). I was relieved when she left, if it hadn't been 20 minutes into a short workout I would have switched machines, no more staring at her behind, that really does include the rest of her back, it's just the butt was pretty much at eye level.

Not 5 minutes later another lady came in to use the elliptical (it was the only machine left at this point, I'm not sure how happy she was about it). She was at least not lumpy but I just don't want to stare at any one's back. (actually the elliptical oversees the desk and is also not my favorite, I feel as though I am staring at whomever is working).

I'm not sure if this is a pre new years resolution phase that will work itself out or if lots of new people have moved in and want to use the gym. I hope the new years resolutions do not last long. I like using my favorite treadmill with out waiting. Waiting is not an option as we already eat late enough.

My life revolves around food. I work out so I can eat more.

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Extra Time

I left work early with grandiose plans of all that I will get done today. Unfortunately I remembered the Dr's appointment at the wrong time, don't worry I called when I got home to get the time long before the appointment. But instead of going to the library I had more time so I went to do the laundry (I wanted to wash my new towels and Pat needed jeans). I almost had them dry when I had to run for the appointment So I took them out and carted them to the DR with me.

After the appointment I ran back and put them back in the dryer for another 20 minutes. Unfortunately that means I did not make it to the library. But I had just enough time to make a yummy chicken pot tie for dinner and watch (listen) to a movie. I was just finishing up when pat came home early to surprise me.

I got everything ready and took off for the gym. He put the pie in the oven while I was working out. And took it out to cool while I was in the shower. It was perfect getting out of the shower, serving myself warm chicken pot pie and settling down to watch Narnia, Prince Caspian. I wish I could get out early every day.

Monday, December 15, 2008

I need GPS

I went to go to the grocery store after work. Instead of going the way that I actually know, I chose to take a short cut. Exit 12 is less then 2 miles from the store, exit 10 I have to go 2-3 miles out of my way. I was in no mood to take any longer then needed. I saw that the exit sign had a directional sign for Shoprite (much like fast food restaurants on most major highways). Unfortunately the signs were trying to take me to the shoprite in bound brook. Pat called when i was in boundbrook to see where i was I told him he didn't want to know, bless him he tried not to ask.

Anyway I turned around and went the other way off the exit but just could not find it. I ended up going the long way and not getting home until 7:30 PM.

Sunday, December 14, 2008

The NJ IQ Test

Last night in the train station Pat and I were sitting near the vending machines. They have lots of choices Pat got a Dr. Pepper from the far machine then came back to sit with me near the snack machines. The machine closest to us had a broken chip dispenser, the spiral wire was pushed out so far it was hitting the glass. It was obviously broken but the chips (Ruffles Original) were sitting funny in their place, obviously they had been chosen a few times despite the broken wire shouting " you will loose you cash, don't pick me". Maybe that made them more alluring.

Anyway a couple came over to pick their snacks and the first thing they choose is the Ruffles. Pat and I snickered a little. They then moved on to another snack for him (I think it was peanut butter M&M's). Then it was back to her, she was determined and chose the Ruffles again! they did move a little but were clearly not interested in coming out for only one measly additional dollar. She then moved onto the other potato chips (Lays Original, don't they taste the same anyway?) but the machine would not let her select any of the 4 rows filled with the Lays. Now I have no Idea what was in the 2nd machine but I have a hunch that they had a row of original potato chips. Instead the gentleman with her had to talk her out of spending a 3rd dollar on the same bag of Ruffles. I should also mention that the change is literally spit out of the machine and falls onto the floor, He collected his change no problem. But her change sat by her feet as she checked the change compartment, she even looked on the floor I'm not sure how she missed it but she seemed agitated by everything by then. By this time Pat and I were beside ourselves too bad she gave up, but as she was looking for her change one last time I had to let her know it was by her feet. She was so frustrated she was going to just leave it, but he took the change for her, how nice. Why he didn't pick it up or point it out himself earlier i haven't a clue (he had managed to find his change on the floor just fine.

Pat and I were sad to see them go as we still had about 10 Minutes left before the train was going to come and take us home. But shortly after they left a Mom and child came by and the child wanted a snack. After studying the choices the child selected the Ruffles. The mother even replied that it was broken and they should select another. With in the next 60 seconds she was selecting the ruffles on the keypad and again they shifted but made no attempt to exit. At this point I had to wonder how much the company made off of the Two bag of chips that wouldn't come out. I suppose at this point it's a bit like gambling, you will most likely loose your dollar, but you could win 2 bags of chips.

I wish i could have sat longer too see how many other people choose the only Item in the machine that was broken but it was crowded and I wanted to get on the train to get home.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Facing the Train

Pat and I went to see a hockey game today. NJ Devils Vs Buffalo Sabres, (Sabres Won 4,2) but to get there we took the train. I really tried to avoid taking the train, but in the end Pat won as it was just as expensive to park and we wouldn't have to sit in traffic. The ride there was quiet and It wasn't so bad as I kept reminding myself that we were not going into the City. Unfortunately Pat told em it would be the 3rd or 4th stop. 8-9 stops later we were finally getting off. Between trying not to think about being on the train, I was entertained by the 2 girls in front of us. They were having some soap operaish times in their lives (friends of theirs) and had some interesting opinions. Pat was trying to toon them out but really they were fairly loud and right in front of us.

When we finally got off the train I was expecting to be right at the building, we were really a few blocks away which wouldn't be a problem but we had no idea where we were going. We followed the devils fans and made it with time to spare. As Pat promised they had good (but very overpriced) food.

The Sabres scored early on in the first period but were not playing all that great, when the Devils scored twice in the second period I was worried, they did answer with one goal of their own. At least the sabres were playing better, but they weren't scoring. Finally towards the end of the 3rd (and final) period they scored twice (one due to a penalty). Leaving the Sabres to win! It was fun walking back to the train station (once we figured out where we were and how to get there).
We congratulated all the other sabres fans and cheered for our team.

The ride home was crowded. we were packed like sardines. Talking hockey was distracting me from my hatred of the trains and made the trip bearable at least until we had platform problems.

The Platforms made in the south west of Metro park were made too short for the trains they now run on the tracks. We had to wait 20-30 minutes at metchen for people to get off the train and walk down the tracks to get to the platform. It probably would not have been so bad if the train were not so crowded. as is was moving from car to car required use of a linebacker. All stops after this were longer then they should have been but at least shorter then that delay. In all I finally got home around 12PM.

Good thing we won it made the ride home soo much easier!

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Swimming in the toilet

Pat for the last 5 years (as long as we have been living together) has been great about putting the toilet seat down. This last week or two he has been changing his habits. It was funny how the other day I was listening to the radio and the lady was talking about how she has fallen into the toilet a few times, I thought how nice it was that pat puts the seat down, and how funny it is then you are not the swimmer.

Then last night. Pat left the seats up. I do not turn on the light when going to the bathroom at night as it is too bright and will completely wake me up. I can see well enough to find the toilet so I just don't bother. Back to last night.

It was too dark to see that Pat had left the seat up. I sat down as usual and almost went all the way in. Lucky for both of us I didn't because even coming close to falling in had made me mad. Pat was of course mad that I didn't turn the light on as that may have avoided the issue as well. but maybe not as when you first turn the lights on you are blinded anyway.

So today I went looking for a night light. I didn't find any non childish ones in Target or Walmart. I will end up having to go to bed bath and beyond tomorrow (I have already checked and they have some that I like, I just hope the store carries them). That should help alleviate the problem.

Along with some 'reminders' to pat to leave the seat down.

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Caught up

I am finally caught up after my week off. I can't believe it took so long! It is such a relief.

Palisades had ice cream sundaes to share today. I wish i could have figured out why, thought it was appreciated anyway. I was just wondering what I would do for a snack when the e-mail came out, lucky for me my neighbors told me all about it. (I still don't get all of Palisades e-mails). It was the perfect snack to get me through my nightly workout.

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Working out again

Pat went to the grocery store so I can make it back to the gym. I haven't really been sense the Friday before thanksgiving. I was very appreciative.

I took it fairly easy as I have been eating funny and not working out. but it felt great! I saw another regular that I had not seen in months who promptly pointed out my absence. I let him know that it hadn't been months but just a few weeks, I'm not sure he believed me.

It doesn't matter, It was just good to be back.

Monday, December 8, 2008

Pedometer

My Pedometer has been unofficially retired. Likely through the Holidays. Wearing it every day for a few months has taught me really what I need to do to get my steps (a good run on the treadmill) but I forgot my pedometer a few days over thanksgiving and well I'm ok with that. as a matter of fact I haven't worn it since then.

I think it will help me vary my workout routine. I stuck with the treadmill as it gave me the most steps, but the elliptical is a great workout as well. And I want to start doing weights as skiing is coming up and that should help make the first days better and the days after much less painful.

I'll have to put it in a good place so I cam dust it off in a few months.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Football Sunday

Another Football Sunday is upon me. Only today I had a Project to keep me busy.

Pat and I ran to Home Depot to try to winterize our bedroom window. It seems even colder this year then last. We purchased the vinyl to cover the window and Pat helped me clear the window and let me do my thing. Unfortunately the vinyl was too small for the window, because i don't remember seeing another size I patch worked a complete window with as few panels as possible. If I hadn't run out of tape I may have had good news tomorrow.

As seems to be a (very good) tradition Pat was going to escape to the neighbors to give me a football break. A few weeks ago they got 2 very cute (as I was told) kittens. I invited myself along, luckily Pat didn't mind because they were adorable. I stayed long enough as to not be impolite but short enough to give myself some football free cleaning time. It worked out well.

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Longwood Gardens

At the Party the hostess Dori mentioned that we were 15 minutes or so from Longwood gardens. I have been trying to get down there for a while now, I have heard that it is beautiful and full of flowers and fountains. Seeing as how it is the middle of the winter the fountains were not on but the Conservatory and the original house were open. We started at the original house.

It started with an informational movie about the gentleman who built the gardens (Mr. Dupont) and a little about where he got his love of gardens and how it all started. Apparently as a 9 year old boy he saw a green house and thought how wonderful it would be to have gardens and greenhouses open to the public. Heading 2 Major corporations left him with plenty of money to build the gardens and insure that the are enjoyed for years after his death.

it was an interesting movie and the gardens in the greenhouse at the actual home were nice. But at the house my favorites were the Christmas trees with edible ornaments. We caught a squirrel eating enthusiastically. it was so cute. I could have stood there all day (but it was cold so we didn't).

Next stop was the conservatory, the building itself id 4 acres (says pat). it is jam packed with beautiful flowers and Christmas trees. Their was even a children's garden that had little places to hide. the whole place was magical. It took 3 hours to go through the buildings and if I had had my camera it would have taken at least twice that. It was ok that I didn't have the camera, I will definitely go back in the spring and maybe even next Christmas season as well.

I do regret not having any photo's to post.

Friday, December 5, 2008

Christmas Party

Pat's Christmas party was today, I left work early and had plenty of time to clean up a little. I sorted the Laundry and picked up my car (or rather tossed the trash out). By the time pat came home a few hours later I was just getting packed. We packed together and though Pat had a wardrobe malfunction (his shirt did not want to be ironed).

We left with 3 1/2 hours before the party, It was a 2 hour drive. It was an easy drive (for me anyway as I was a passenger). We did hit some traffic making it a 3 hour drive, unfortunately we did not stop at the hotel because we had directions to it from his bosses house and not from our house. (we later learned that we passed it on the way to the house, I wish we had stopped). If you did the math you know we arrived 30 minutes early. It was too dark to put makeup on and Pat's car has an in adequate mirror anyway. so we sat in the dark outside his bosses house for 20 minutes before going in.

Pat's boss was already inside with his wife so after handing over our jackets (to the host) I went over to give him a polite hug hello, Unfortunately their was a small step down into the kitchen that I knew nothing about. I FLEW into his bosses arms. It was lovely.

We all had a good laugh (myself included) and I vowed to remember all of the steps (2 of the hallways leading into and out of the kitchen, one leading to the formal living room). Unfortunately dinner was served so long after the first incident that I forgot my resolve. I stumbled into an almost empty (the piano player was the only one aside from me that got a laugh) living room. At least I was drinking water (and I got to watch 2 others make the same mistake). I wonder if they added hutches landings to the rooms if it would help.

We left around 10 pm and I must say it was a good party. The house was beautiful and the people were nice.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Meeting Evelyn

I can't beleave it took so long but I have finally met my niece. She is so wonderful (slept the whole time). Beautiful too. Lillie does have a bit of a sharing problem (she fully admits it) but did a good job sharing with me. I think she knew I wouldn't take no as an answer.

Hopefully I'll get to spend more time with her over Christmas!

Photo's coming soon!

Monday, November 24, 2008

Shopping Part 1

Gingerbread waffles are normally a Christmas fare but they were requested one holiday early. Breakfast today was the waffles and they were delicious, I will definitely make them for more then just Christmas. After waffles Pat made a break for it and we went shopping (mom and I). we took allot of junk with us hoping to be called over to see the baby but it didn't happen until 3ish.

Unfortunately for my exhausted sister (who wanted us to bring dinner) we were on the way to an appointment and would still have to make the dinner but let her know we would call her after it was made to see if she still wanted to come up. The snow started up as we were cooking dinner. By the time we were done we chose to stay home because the roads were bad.

Hopefully tomorrow I will be able to meet her.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

It feels like thanksgiving

How does it feel like Thanksgiving?

I spent the morning shopping with my Mother in Law. It was fun though I didn't buy much. I'm borrowing a purple shirt for the family photo and while i did find a few that were ok none were worth the price they were asking, ( I can be very cheep when it comes to clothing). I did get our yearly ornament and I found a cute one for Dylan.

Having Marks for lunch is the only thing that will always make me feel like I'm home. (aside from the snow in the winter). So I had a slice for lunch with Pat (who got wings, in case you were interested) and mom R (also wings).

After Lunch I got the biggest treat so far. I went out to see Dylan my first and oldest nephew. Once he got over his fear of me and stopped screaming we had a good time. He ate lunch and I made funny noises at him making him laugh so hard I was afraid he would throw up. Don't worry Doug (his Daddy) says he won't. I wonder if he ever did get that nap in.

Pat drove down for Dinner at my parents house (he couldn't resist salmon), I on the other hand enjoyed the left over Pork. As always we had a roaring hot fire going. I took a good hours nap after all that food. Luckily for me it was late so when I did wake up I pretty much went strait to bed. It was a great day.

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Another day on the road

I think I travel too much. It seems every few weeks I have a blog traveled on the road. I just can't name it anything else as it usually wipes out my day. Today we left for Rochester early. I was hoping to meet my new niece but that's not going to happen as they got out of the hospital just as I got into town.

I did get to spend lots of time with mom and dad. Dad even cooked me an excellent Pork Roast, Mom and I did a fabulous job on the salad, corn bread and sweet Potatoes. It has been probably almost a full year but I realized that I should definitely try to eat them more often.

A little snow greeted us on the way up (luckily not enough to make it scary). Pat and I were like little kids driving up watching the accumulated snow piles get bigger as we drove further north. Even the little bit we saw falling couldn't deter out excitement. It's nice to see snow.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Chins

Today I went to the store with a friend to buy a chin cage, None of them were really great but one looked like it would do. It was more then I would like to spend but I can't put them in a small cage. they need room to bounce (literally).

Lucky for me the breeder ended up adopting 2 rescues leaving a cage open for my girls. That ment as long as it was big enough I could return the other cage. Thank goodness!

We dropped them off the cage was not ideal but they will be comfertable for the time we are gone. I do like going over to the breeders house I get to see all of the other chins, they are such cool animals! They enjoy doing what Pat and I dubbed 'Wall Runs', and it's very funny to watch. They essentially run up to a wall and bounce off of it they will bounce off of up to 3 walls in one jump. Tonight her's were showing us their moves. we had a few standard walruns, but one chin took the cake she was jumping from the top shelf of her cage bouncing off the front of the cage in a way that it was a neat looking flip. I wish I had a video, I can't do it justice.

We went out to dinner so we would not have to clean the kitchen tonight, great reason, no? It was great but we didn't get home until 9:30 and still had to pack.

Stress

I had a rental go a little awry today. I ended up spending my early afternoon trying to clean up a mess that was already fixed by the branch. Unfortunitly I was told about the complaint after the branch and customer had come to a resolution that worked for everyone. So I was calling all parties involved to make sure the resolution was good and see what went wrong. After I went to lunch the rental went from being needed at any time to needed right away. FUN!

Then I got home to work off the day's bad rental I got a phone call. I had left the breeder that is taking care of Gizmo and Pinky to make sure she had a cage available as the cage we have is too big to be moved. She called back 30 minutes into the workout to say she did not have an available cage. All of a sudden my vacation plans went south. Traveling with the chins would stress them out too much and they couldn't stay at my in-laws house because of the cat and dog, but my parents would be less then thrilled with the furry addition to the week.

We decided to buy a new (extra) cage because the extra cage we had was in NY (something I will have to rectify this weekend).

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

TMI

I called a customer to make a reservation. Shortly after the start of the conversation she decided to share with me that she had just found out that she's pregnant. Assuming she was telling me because she was so happy she had to tell someone, I gave an enthusiastic congratulations.

She was not sure how she felt about it, it was an accident. Um I'm sure it will work out just fine i replied.

It will I'm sure I'll be happy in a little while, she said. It's just that she had a 12 year old and her fiancee had a 2 year old and she didn't want to start over.

thanks for sharing. If it was simply that she was so happy that she could not keep her mouth shut, It would make sense to tell someone you don't know over the phone, excitement makes you want to tell everyone. But telling someone that it was all an accident and you weren't even happy about it that is silly.

Sorry about your luck lady.

Monday, November 17, 2008

What Financial Diet?

My Christmas Shopping is almost done, 3 more people to go. I have them all budgeted for so that's not a big deal, I'm just proud to have so much of it done.

Anyway I went shopping at lunch for a few baby gifts as there seems to be a never ending baby boom with in the office as well as friends and family. I went to get a family friend a gift as well as Poor Zach (who is nearly 2 months old) gifts. I went in for 2-3 outfits and ended up spending well more then I planned. The problem is that I LOVE Carters cloths they are so darn cute. As I told my mom It's just another of many good reasons to not have children, I'd go broke before it turned a year.

At least for the foreseeable future I can stay away from Carters as I can't imagine too many more baby's being born around me (not literally).

Financial diet back on.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Anne's Weddings

Today we was Anne and Tom's wedding. It was beautiful The Ceremony was at 10 AM which gave me plenty of time to go to the hotel gym and eat breakfast first. We arrived at the church It was very pretty. That's when I got my camera out to get ready to use it. Nothing. My battery was dead, I reached for the backup and they had fallen out of my bag. . . Grrr.

I had promised many photos of Anne's wedding to Lillie and Mom. I realized how much I take photo's at weddings and how much I missed it with out my camera. Also that I really want to get a nice new camera. Which is funny because I don't foresee too many more weddings. But their are many other photo opportunities.

The Ceremony was nice and because I did not have a camera, Pat and I went to the reception site as soon as it was done instead of lingering for photo's. On the way we were stopped at a red arrow waiting to turn left. A guy came over to us and started talking to us. Apparently he thought we were 'Looking'. Pat had his hand resting funny on his chest and the guy was worried he had a gun. UM WHAT?!?! no gun Pat said. It was at that point I told pat to run the red light. Yes you read that correct. The goody two shoes told her husband to risk a ticket to get us the hell out of there. The guy left so Pat didn't have to but if i was driving I would have left a few minutes before the guy left.

The 2nd best part of the wedding is that it was a BRUNCH reception. That's right I had french toast (among many other delicious choices). I ate brunch with one of her college sweetmates and Father (I think the other couple was her aunt on her fathers side). I wish I had photo's to post.

I'm going to read that later and realize how little of the wedding I actually wrote about. I just think I can't put weddings into words.

Friday, November 14, 2008

NJ gets something right

Driving to NY when we go to Rochester is so routine that I missed out on a key observation that a coworker made when we drove to the ski outing a few years ago. Tonight I fully appreciated that observation and realized NJ does do something correct. You see they number the exits by mile so you always know about how far you have to go. I hate having to remember how far we have gone and it is nice to be able to do some simple math and know how far we have left on the highway.

It was late and pat was grumpy and I had no way of knowing how far we had to go. We could have gotten an earlier start if Pat and I had done a through packing job this week but I had charged the batteries to the camera and placed a backup in the bag so all I had to do was pack the gift and camera, some how it took forever and Pat wasn't exactly ready either.

I made this same mistake with Sean's wedding but this time I had the essentials, medication, contacts and shoes that matched a decent looking outfit.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Better then a bottle of wine

I went to the Dr's office today for a regular check up. On the up side I get to lower my medication to 2 times a day. Only 6 pills per day, a good direction. While I would prefer getting rid of the other medication I'll be happy with what I got.

As for the more frustrating, I have to go in every 4 months not 6 as i had originally thought. That's a pain and annoying (I have a 35$ copay, it's a good thing i have a flex spending account). The even worse news is the doctor wants to do another colonoskapy this coming year. If you have never had one It's not the actual procedure that sucks. your actually asleep for the whole thing. It is the preparation that stinks. I never keep it all down and so far they haven't had any issues but i couldn't bear to wake up and find out that the test is void because I'm not 'clean enough'.

I have to laugh because I'm thinking of all the negative things about a colonoskapy. the second worst thing is the liquid diet for 24 hours. I LOVE to eat and no amount of liquid will satiate my hunger. no many how many calories.

It's a good thing really that she wants to be more on top of my illness. But I'm not sure if it's too much considering I thought once a year visit was good, twice is ok too. every 5 years sounded doable for the dreaded big test, two just does not give me enough recovery time. At least she will negotiate with me.

I was so frustrated when I left I tried to call Lillie to vent but she was still at the gym. So My release was the treadmill. It had been a while but the pain in my thigh is gone, 40 minutes of running was all that I needed. I felt great!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

The Non Date

I had met an acquaintance at the gym. He came to the gym allot and we chatted every now and then. I won't give him a name.

Just before we moved to Somerset he asked me to meet him at a chain restaurant/bar for happy hour with him and his friends. I figured that it was a good size group and it may be fun, meet some new people and get out for the night. So I chose to go. Pat didn't have a problem with it, why would he.

So I showed up and he was already there. Alone. I can't remember why his friends couldn't come out but it weirded me out that it was just the two of us. We chit chatted for a short while, he drank god know what (but it was WAY too alcoholic) I drank Sprite as I don't drink much and Never when I have to Drive. I just implied that he was drunk. Let me clarify, He was far from it.

Shortly after I arrived the conversation got strange, gross really. He started telling me that he liked to sleep with married women. Um really, because I really don't see that working as a pick up line. He went on to tell me about his intimacy issues, he apparently could not sleep with the women for more then 6 months. To top off this brilliant confession he let me know that he couldn't actually sleep with the girl he had been dating for a while. Had I ever considered cheating? Um no.

Why was I still there? Pat asked me for a steak quesedilla and I was waiting for it to come out. Restaurants have a knack for determining when your hungry or if you want to make a run for it, It takes extra long to cook. As I was waiting I was amusing myself by letting him know that he needed to see a psychologist and that he was a freak, I would say I'm not sure why he stayed but maybe he thought he still had a shot. ( I usually refuse to admit that he wanted to sleep with me, it's just too gross).

When the Quesadilla finally came I paid and as I was leaving (he walked me to the door, how nice) he said that he hoped he didn't offend me and that we should still be friends.

I Went home and Pat had a good laugh at my 'non-date'. Come to think of it so did my evil brother in law. I'm still not sure why I seemed to be the only one grossed out.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Financial Tuesday

Here is the status on the last of the student loans;

US1- 475.37
US2- 474.90
CP2- 753.55
US3- 950.21
CA1- 1952.05
CP1- 3821.59
US5-1242.28
US6- 1952.04
CP04- 7637.74
CP06- 8453.75

Their is a faint light somewhere in the distance.

Black and Tan

I woke up and got dressed this morning like every morning, except I was missing something. I chose a striped blouse in black/white/grey and black pants. Then I moved onto the rest of my routine. Shower, brush teeth, wash face exct.

As it neared time to go I packed my gym bag and breakfast, then went for my keys. They were nowhere to be found. Pat and I scrambled around the apartment looking, not only were they absent from all the usual places they were not in even the places that have only the slightest possibility that I would leave them there. Finally I gave up and went to use my spare key (car only) and as I picked up the gym bag there they were. it's funny that I checked in the bag and in and around my purse but skipped looking under the bag.

So I go to put on my shoes for the day and I grabbed my brown boots. I even remember thinking I needed to wear my brown boots today. Then off to work I went.

It was around lunch that I looked down at my feet and realized that I had out on my brown boots with a black outfit. two things occurred to me, 1) how did it take so long for me to look at my feet? 2) Why was I so convinced that I needed to wear the brown boots this morning, where was my internal fashion police.

Monday, November 10, 2008

Monday Blues

It would be great to say that I chased my Monday blues away by going to the gym and having a great work out. Unfortunately the gym was closed again, what's a girl to do?

Me? I went home and ate the remaining apple crisp. OK, I finished folding the laundry too. So in a way I got more done but I really missed my workout, maybe tomorrow.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

The Weekend of Naps

This weekend I was just flat out lazy. I never take naps and yet I took one on Saturday and today. I slept for two hours tonight I shouldn't be able to sleep tonight but for some reason I think I'm safe. On the other hand the nap must have been just what I needed as I got allot of needed cleaning done once I woke up (and shook that groggy feeling).

Here's hoping for a quick and sleep filled week.

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Lazy Day

Normally I;m pacing in my apartment waiting on the gym to open. Today I got up around the normal time and promptly sat on the couch with my laptop. 9 am came and went. I was playing and the gym was not on the forefrunt of my mind. Finally around 10 am I went, I enoyed my workout.

After showering and getting dressed I promptly did nothing. Normally I run errends right after my workout but again lazynss won out. I even took an early afternoon nap. I never take naps.

I did eventlly leave the apartment and go shopping for a few things most important is a purple shirt. There are not many purple blouses out there. Or i should say not many that I like. so the hunt continues.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

The Problem with FREE

The gym at my complex is free (or included with rent anyway). It works for me most of the time. The equipment is newer and (most of it) is in fine working condition. I have only seen it very busy once or twice and lucky for me I have always beat the crowd and got a machine.

My problem lies in the fact that their hours are not always the best and sometimes they are late opening up. I waited 30 minutes outside of the gym for them to open and finally gave up. I really need to start working out by 630 as I need to also go home and cook and eat dinner. I can't eat then workout because my stomach will not allow it. For holidays they have signs posted, but days like last night I'm left waiting having no Idea if the gym is going to open. I get to waste time waiting. I have no idea if they opened after I left.

Is it too much to ask for that a Free Gym be open for it's posted hours, am I over reacting?

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

I have a Job

At least for now. The first round of layoffs have compleated. Though their are no plans for further layoffs, I think more may come. Maybe that is because I grew up inRrochester, between Kodak and Xerox layoffs seemed to be a way of life. The department was hit harder then I thought it would be, we lost 3 people out of 22.

Next round I'll be much more worried.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Vote Vote Vote!

I thought I would be smart and avoid lines by going in the morning. My optimism lead me to believe that I would get to the polls and out fast enough to still be pretty early to work. I have to laugh at myself even as I type that out. I should have known better.

I knew as I pulled in that It was going to be a crazy morning, cars were parked every where. their was a short line to even pull into the driveway. The line was fairly short (as far as I could see anyway). I was feeling pretty good. Even in the first 30 minutes we seemed to be moving.

Then I hit the movie room, it took 45 minutes to get around the perimeter and it was a fairly small room. Lucky for me just as we were leaving the room to continue the wait in the hallway again when they pulled k-z's aside and jumped us up front, I was soo happy to be standing in the gym that it was another 10 minutes before I realized that we hadn't moved.

I watched in Horror as the voting booths remained empty for a few minutes between voters, all because we couldn't register/sign in fast enough (sometimes the gentleman running the booths was slow and kept people waiting too). Having only 2 voting booths should have been the bottleneck. 2.5 hours later I successfully voted. Hours late to work I still have not heard from my boss.

I am not good at waiting I had CNN up for the morning on the election page but the polls don't close until 6-7 at the earliest. Results will take a long time, but I'll keep checking.

Today's steps;

Monday, November 3, 2008

the week of Layoffs

I figured we would hear with in the next 2 weeks. They are even faster then I thought all decisions will be made by Wednesday. I have my moments of nervousness, when my boss came out he seemed worried sic, weather it was for his own job or for those he was about to layoff I couldn't tell. A few of my co workers that I speak with more frequently were also pretty worried.

I'm not sure if my lack of nerves is some sort of sick optimism or if I just simply realize that worry won't ensure my future employment. It will be nice if I am just as calm even though the risk would be much greater.

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Football Sunday

I shouldn't fight it any more. I don't mind football, actully I like it in limited amounts. Sitting on the couch eating wings isn't bad either. Though I do have a problem with spending my entire afternoon on the couch. At some point I have to at least go for a walk though that may change as the weather gets really cold. I wish the gym was open for more hours, I could work out earlier and then do a second workout later in the day, if it's a football day.

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Never Too Early

After my morning workout I went shopping!! 3 More people off my Christmas list (and one isn't even born yet). Unfortunately labels are not on sale yet. I can only hope to remember who gets what by the time I get the labels, though it would be funny if mom got a counting caterpillar. I am now about half way done with my Christmas shopping. I dont' think I have ever been this early with the shopping, of course once I have them purchased I can't leave them unwrapped. So below is the photo of my wrapped gifts. If only I had a tree, but that's a line I don't think Pat would allow me to cross.

It has benefits to be done so early. My Mom is flying to Chicago and will take the gifts out for me. That saves me postage and ensuring that the gifts arrive on time. I wouldn't want to be late for a first Christmas even if he can't open his own gifts.



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Friday, October 31, 2008

Halloween

I love handing out candy to the kids on Halloween. Somebody should tell them that. I saw a bunch of kids running around the complex, 2 showed up at my door as I was leaving for the gym they were the only group of kids to knock on the door. Pat got no one as I was working out. To make matters worse I had a horrible workout thinking of all the cute kids I could be giving candy to, how cute the costumes are. seriously It doesn't really matter what the kid is wearing they are normally sooo proud of the costume. It could be a hand colored paper plate but it's what they wanted to be and they are normally happy. but I only got 2 trick or treaters and apparently one of the neighbors had already slammed the door in their faces. Seriously just don't answer the door is it that bad for one night.

Work on the other hand was great. They did it up even more this year then years past. their were more games and activities. Claims didn't dress up but there were plenty of others dressed up along with me. I unfortunately spilled on my white costume at lunch so I changed out of it early, but I got to dress up that's what matters. Hopefully tomorrow I will find one of the seasonal Halloween stores and go find a really cool costume for next year. (does that count as spending?) Then again maybe not.

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Another day of traffic

Normally traffic only hits me really bad once or twice a month. This week it got me two days in a row, way to show the company I want to keep my Job.

Unfortunitly my coworker's situation has gotten worse (for the families). He confessed. He is trying to get teh confession thrown out saying it was coerced, but he confessed. I couldn't think of much worse right now, they have already been through so much.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

A dose of reality

Today was a sad day.

From the beginning it was awful, purely from a selfish standpoint, traffic was horrible. After 40 minutes I finally turned around and went a different way to work. At least I only had to backtrack 2-3 miles but I passed by my apartment complex at 7:50 or so. in all it took 1 hour and 45 minutes to get to work today. Little did I know this annoyance would pale in comparison to the rest of the day.

My coworkers family was apparently in the midst of a tragedy. her daughter's brother-in-law's wife went missing. I was optimistic that she would be found/return home. Unfortunately that will not be the case. In the afternoon her body was found near her car. I have read similar cases in the newspaper but to have such a tragedy touch the life of a coworker was a shock. Now I can only hope that the family is spared any further pain. I wish their was something I could do for them. but keeping them in my thoughts will hopefully be enough.

To add to the ambiance of the day my boss came to visit. He was definitely not himself. I am left to wonder if he is worried about his job or if he is worried about having to lay off people, probably both. Either way it was a little unsettling.

A friend whom I told about the layoffs sent a message that the main office in St Louis had already let go 200 employees. It;s a heck of a start though I'm a little relieved that they jumped on the plan full force, no use sitting around fretting forever. though maybe ignorance is bliss, I guess I'll find out when the layoffs are over. I guess this is the way the economy is going. Hopefully we can make it through fairly unscathed along with our friends and family.

Today's steps;

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Layoffs

Nothing good can come of this. Enterprise is laying people off. No dates or #'s have been released to the public (or employees).

I am foolishly optimistic. I don't see getting cut in a first round. They will likely concentrate rental management a little, most of the cuts will likely be fellow administrative employees. The difference is in the actual position I hold. I am one of 2 now at the insurance company, however their are 2 claims centers. Cutting back likely will not work in my case as in the others in similar positions (except for the big insurance companies). The danger in my position lies in the fact that I make slightly more then I should. They could replace me cheaper however hopefully the fact that I do a good job and the insurance company seems to really like me should be enough. If it is not I can look back at this post and laugh at how foolishly optimistic I was. Then move on to some heavy job searching.

It is making me think about my financial situation. We only have one loan left, It's a big one but if it got really bad we could defer it. At this point we have very few monthly bills that can be canceled, cable being the only one that comes to mind. It has always been my goal to pay down the debt to a point that we could live off one paycheck while saving the other. This would really lessen the stress of times like these. I mean for one we would have a good size savings account and for the other we wouldn't have to dip into it if either of us got laid off. Unfortunitly for my goal the threat of a layoff came a little to fast. We likely have another 2 years before we can even hope to have a budget like that. If we can get 3-4 more years (5 preferable) out of our cars we may even be able to buy cash for a (very) used car.

I suppose i should share this goal with my husband as it is his cash too. I don't see how he could disagree.

Today's steps;

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Lazyness

First I have to say Happy Birthday to Mom.

Now my lazy day!

I slept in today. That is an accomplishment for me. Normally I can't sleep past 700am, today I slept to a blissful 9:30am.

After I checked in with Pat to see where he was (he was in PA driving home). I went to the gym. I did a full workout for the first time in a LONG time. It was hard, I was very sleepy during the workout, strangely it was at it's worst 30 minutes inn. Normally no matter how tired I am 15 minutes in I feel great and enjoy the rest of the workout. I wonder if it was the sleeping in.

After I showered I welcomed Pat home! It was great to see him again (I know he was only gone 48 hours). After he showered we settled down and watched football and ate chicken wings and Pizza, below is a photo of the horror of me eating chicken wings. I cannot eat them like a normal person as I refuse to eat the skin. You can see the skins piled with the bones on the plastic lid next to me, I'm working on the poor 'flapper'* in my hands. of course I washed all this down with a healthy serving of apple crisp and ice cream.

In the end I spent most of the day sitting on my couch with Pat. Next week I'll avoid any football that does not involve Purdue. Because Purdue is doing so bad they likely will not be on TV and I'll have a football free weekend.

* apparently when you order wings the legs are the legs but the other parts are called the flappers, they are the only parts I eat. Pat prefers the legs but will eat any wings offered if they are tasty enough.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

christmas shopping

I an determined to get my Christmas shopping done early this year and so far I'm off to a good start. Mom K and Dad K are done, Lillie is done, Jason will be a problem but the baby will be done Monday. David and Angela will be done as soon as this week, Zach I'm not sure if I'll buy something or send $ for them to spend on him.

The Rodman's are no where near done the only clue I have is for Dad R. Everyone else I'll need help.

Not that I have an abundance of Idea's for myself though I gave mom a good one! I should keep a list that I can add to but I don't so when I'm asked i just don't know what I want/need.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Impressionable

I read this morning that Stacy had made apple crisp, she posted it on facebook. For some reason I could not get the craving out of my mind once I had read the blurb. I made the apple crisp and enjoyed a fresh hot batch with the last of the vanilla ice cream.

Now I wonder when I became so impressionable. Is it just when food is involved? I do LOVE to eat and the apple crisp was a great idea. It was delicious!

So now every one leave messages on good deserts or other activities and see if I go do them!

Today's steps; 14500

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Foiled

The gym was finally open and I was relieved to know that the next holiday is Thanksgiving. I can get back into my gym habit and keep it up. I was taking it a little easy to feel out what my 9 day hiatus had done to my fitness level. I have to say it wasn't looking good. Then I see Pat walk up to the gym. He doesn't work out so I was wondering what he could need. He was looking for the laundry detergent, I told him that it was in the trunk of my car and told him where to find my keys.

I thought nothing of it as I pumped up the intensity a little. 10 minutes later he's back and in a grumpy(er) mood. He didn't find the detergent and apparently went across the street to buy some but couldn't find any. After a scant 20 minute workout (less then 200 calories) and I was done.

Any guesses where the detergent was? Yes, In the trunk of my car.

I guess I had to balance out the happy Pat post with a grumpy Pat post.
Today's steps;

Why I Love My Husband

I awoke this morning, turned on the light and sat up in bed. I was not quite ready to face the cold of the apartment. I looked over and Pat was looking at me and smiling. I laughed and asked what he was smiling about. Your beautiful was his reply.

It's 6:30 I just woke up and I'm in my new space ship footie PJ's. Only a husband would say that I was beautiful at that moment and not every husband at that, it was appreciated. I realize that I have a wonderful husband that not only loves me but is not offended by my weird sense of bed ware. I love PJ's and in the winter warm and cozy rules. That means for the most part they are not sexy, Pat loves (likes) them anyway!

I'll try to get a photo in my new PJ's. I hope they have some Christmas themed ones in a few weeks that would rock to open gifts in candy cane/Santa footie PJ's.

Today's Steps;

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Day 9

The gym was closed again today. I haven't heard of the holiday but it hardly matters. I'm getting restless. I wish I had found the time to exercise in DC or even made it on Monday. I feel like I will be starting over from scratch.

I should be grateful that it's not a 6 week sentence like Angela and be glad that it will be over tomorrow. It's just not enough to make the anxiety and restlessness go away.

Looking forward to tomorrow.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Zach and Me

This is a Post about last weekend.
He actually looks like he's not sure what to make of his Aunt Sarah. I'm not so sure either. Mom went to get him at 7 am, I was already up so the timing was not a problem, however I did not sleep well due to the cold in the hotel room. I look as tired and beat up (and happy) as I was.

Zach was a good boy and did not pee on me though I did get nervous after a while and put a towel down just in case. I was happy to hold him for the first time (I waited an extra day to make sure the cold was gone and not contagious). He seemed to be content no matter who held him so we got along just fine.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Financial Diet

I have been on a little bit of a spending spree the past few weeks. Today starts the financial diet that I really need to go on. I did need some new work cloths (and still do) I have been going a little more spendy then I wanted. So for the next few weeks I will be curbing my spending and paying more attention to what is purchased. Some of it was gifts (with a few more gifts to go) the rest was cloths for work and now I need a spending break to recover and break a bad habit before it starts.

For some reason ever sense we moved I have been spending more money then I ever did in Hackettstown and I can't figure out why. If you know please pass on the secret, I really want to save for a nice camera and at this rate I'll never get one.

So here is to spending, I'll miss you terribly but don't hurry back.

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Home again

The PJ's I love so much from my post a few days ago went on sale as of today. The Target in Gaithersburg did not have the sizes I wanted, I checked last night. When I got back to the hotel I realized that they were not on sale until today so it really didn't matter at that time.

I went to grandma and grandpa's house to have some extra time with them before I left. (Every one else left early that morning). It was nice to sit and chat with Grandma but Grandpa was a sleepy head and I only got a few minutes with him as I also wanted to get on the road early. Next time I want some time with Grandma and the puzzle table. I didn't get any puzzling at all this weekend.

The ride home was uneventful (thankfully as their were allot of cops out). It only takes 3 1/2-4 hours which is nice. Lucky me my local target is right on the way home and I stopped and found the PJ's I wanted and they had the sizes I wanted (I got one for Lillie, I'm not telling which one). I'm so excited my new ones glow in the dark!!

I pretty much napped the rest of the day. It was a good day.

Today's steps;

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Apple Picking

Saturday was a Beautiful day in DC. I went with Sheryl, Jason, and Illana (I hope I spelled that correctly) Apple Picking. Though I did not pick apples for myself (which I later regretted) I did pick a few for Sheryl and A few for myself to eat. Apples right off the tree are DELICIOUS, definitely better then the store. I'm already planning on apple picking at Sutzes with Lillie and baby girl in the fall (or maybe 2 falls from now).

After rushing home to make it for dinner (I was told it was at 5PM, it was at 6PM). I Made it with an hour to spare and had time to take photo's of the roses that were still in bloom in front of the apartment building and meet an accomplished gardener. His flowers were still blooming strong (Including a few Irises). I didn't take photo's of those because he was still working with them but they are (were) nice.

Anyway dinner was great and We got a almost full family photo that I will post as soon as I get it. Hopefully in a few years we can do this for Grandma's 85th birthday and have everyone! One large family celebration and hopefully a photo.

Today's Steps;

Friday, October 17, 2008

Bright Idea's

I awake this morning and wrote my directions to DC. Unfortunately Pat did not like g-map's directions. He said I should take 295 all the way down to the bridge, which then merges/changes into I95. As I was driving down Rt 1 I see that I can hit 95 as well as 295. I figured if it was a good thing to just skip the jump to 95 part way through NJ, taking 95 from the beginning would be a even better thing after all it runs parallel to 295 and I end up on 95 anyway.

Apparently there are 2 95's in NJ. I95 and the NJ turnpike.

Anyway part way down 95 I realized I was heading into PA. So I called Pat.

'remember how you said to skip the jump from 295 to 95?'

'what did you do' pat says mistrustfully

'well from rt 1 you can also hit rt 95'

'NO! you didn't' (he actually cut me off)

'well if I was going to end up on it anyway, isn't that your lessen from this morning?'

'Don't blame this on me!' (silly husband your always to blame).

'Well If you hadn't wanted me to stray from the directions. . .'

'this is not my fault' he says.

'yes it is so help me fix it'

He did and I made it in 4 hours. But the excitement had just begun. As I walk into the building and up to the elevator I see a guy pushing a baby stroller. I almost didn't look at him at all but I looked at his Wife, My sister in law. I looked over at David wondering how/why/what (I was confused). Zach is just under one month old and I couldn't believe they would drive 11 hours with him. Lucky for me I was wrong!! They came out to surprise Grandpa for his 90th birthday. Apparently the whole family was surprised not just Grandpa. I did get shown up arriving at the apartment Judy answered the door expecting me and flipped that they had brought the baby. I don't blame her the baby takes top billing despite the fact that he likes to pee all over everyone.

Poor Lillie is unable to travel so she was the only one who couldn't make it. She was very upset. But we celebrated Grandpa's birthday and had a great time (wishing Lillie could be here with us).

Boy am I glad my cold went away fast!

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Decisions

I have decided to postpone the trip by one day. I will be feeling better tomorrow and will be well rested for the drive. Plus If it gets worse over night I'll just stay home. I really want to go and I think it will all work out.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

It has been a LONG time sience I have had a cold. Unfortunitly the tiny little cold I have developed (yesterday) may prevent me from all of my weekend palns. No I'm not that sick, I just want to make sure my grandpa stays healthy.

It's his 90th birthday on Friday. I was going to drive down to DC to celebrate with him, My Grandma, my parents and Aunt Judy (who I don't get to see often). But a simple cold can be very not good when your 90. Apparently Grandpa's last cold was very bad, and I dont' want to give him a cold for his 90th birthday. That would be awful.

My Mom is going to call me back today after discussing with Grandma the possiblity of me coming out for her birthday in 2 weeks (Halloween). We shall see what they say, I guess I'd feel better if it were a full blown cold. Then going would not be an option at all.

If I can't go i'll also miss out on seeing Sheryl and going to a fall festival. Pumpkin and apple picking, corn maze, sigh I told Pat to find me one here but I don't hold out much hope. It would be more fun in DC.

Today's Steps;

Monday, October 13, 2008

The Fitness Fight

As I was getting ready for the gym today Pat was griping that I go to the gym 5 days a week. Actually I go 7 but the weekends apparently don't count because it's not encroaching as much into his time. Anyway, I told him he would be even more pissed when I kicked his ass skiing this winter.

He laughed and said ' All the fitness in the world won't fix your psychological issue with skiing. It isn't going to make the mountain smaller and your still going to be scared.'

I glared at him as I walked out the door. I realized while on the treadmill that after the first few runs I'll show him up (the first run or two is needed to conquer my fear of skiing). Then I'll get the last laugh.

Today's steps; 15614

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Ode to Breakfast

I love breakfast foods. I could eat them all day.

The first is Mom Rodman's Holiday egg casserole. I'm not sure what's in it, I have the recipe somewhere but it is delicious. Every holiday she cooks it up for the family. I would bribe her to leave out the mushrooms but because she won't I just pick around them. Thankfully I get this breakfast every holiday and I don't even have to cook.

Gingerbread waffles are another Holiday favorite. They taste just like Christmas and even Pat likes them! The recipe is by Rachel Ray and maybe I'll Post it this year when I make them.


Regular waffles I make when visiting my parents has to be on the list of breakfast favorites and while I don't make them all the time it's not a holiday recipe so I make them more often. I like making them with whole wheat flour and strawberry topping. My mom even freezes the leftover to eat after I have gone home. Thought she isn't a strawberry fan so she eats them plain.

My go to weekend breakfast is a supped up scrambled egg. That's eggs scrambled with ham potatoes and veggies. Another breakfast pat will eat and actually enjoy. It's quick easy and delish.

Anyway I just enjoyed my breakfast and wanted to share my favorites. let me know what yours are (maybe I'll try them).

Today's Steps;

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Drama Drama Drama

I checked the step counter this morning and it missed 3000+ steps. How do I know? I started my workout with 5000 steps and only got 6500 in my 65 minute run. in a 60 minute workout I get 1000 steps so I am recording my actual steps and putting the missing steps next to it on my previous post. I haven't figured out what I will do for the spreadsheet, maybe I'll just add in the 3000, that is the minimum missing.

Now I need to figure out why that happened, today I got 11000+ during my workout so it worked just fine.

Today's other drama very much amused Pat, he really should be more supportive.

On my way to the bank I noticed a funny looking beetle on the passenger side window. I rolled down the window (which was a feet on it's own as I have manual windows). After the window was down I went about my drive hoping it would fly out the window or get close enough to get blown out. It outsmarted me by crawling down the door and landing the floor of the car.

After coming out from the bank I shook out the jacket that he was crawling on before I lost him. I didn't see it come out but also did not see it any ware else.

As I was driving home I glanced in my rear view Mirror and there he was sitting on the headrest right behind me. (please take the time to picture me leaning forward enough to get away from the bug but not so far that I can't see him in the rear view mirror).

Because I was driving I had to take my eyes off him frequently, unfortunately he disappeared leaving me to wonder if he was crawling all over me or if he had jumped to the back of the car.

Pulling into the complex I gave Pat a call. I asked that he come down, I promised he would find it funny, boy did I.

He came down and checked me over to make sure the beetle was not on me any ware. Then I gave the rear of the car a quick once over. I didn't see him so I reorganized the grocery bags (awaiting recycling) in the back of my car as pat was laughing and making fun of me. once I had most of them in the one big bag I noticed the beetle on the door jam of the rear passenger side, and screamed. Pat LOVED that! Seriously I'm not afraid of it it just surprised me.

Today's Steps;

Friday, October 10, 2008

PJ's

I LOVE Pajamas. All colors, patterns, styles and most fabrics (they must be soft). One bone I have to pick on the PJ industry is the lack of footie PJ's for adults. Seriously, they are worm, soft and cozy.

Most of the time even in the older kid section they are missing. I found a pair a few years ago at Target in the Boy's section that were nice. So I had a pair, unfortunately they eventually had to be tossed out and I have had a hole in my closet ever sense.

Today I filled the hole. During my shopping excursion to Target I spotted in the Girls section a pair of footie PJ's, Pink, With hearts all over! (yes I really am 30) I grabbed the XL and though I did not have time to try it on It looks like a good fit. I will find out for sure tonight. and will wash them for wear on Saturday. Maybe I'll post a picture, after all I need to convert more people into the cause.



Today's steps; 12870 + 3500 (missing steps)

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Wait What Day is it?

This morning I did not want to get up when the alarm rang (or beeped). Pat unsympathetically informed me that it was indeed Friday, not Saturday as I had hoped. Finally about 7:50 I finally got myself up and going, Pat on the other hand decided to go back to bed. A very unusual move for him.


Upon getting to work mom R gave me a call. She was checking to see what we were up to. I informed her that we were working, she seemed a little confused. Apparently I was not the only one that really wanted it to be Saturday, only she thought it was, I just lied to myself. She was going to invite up to meet her and dad for dinner in PA. but because we were working we couldn't.

I told my coworkers about the date issue, they unanimously agreed that it should be Saturday and we should all go home! I don't think the companies we work for would agree.

I did give her a mission while she was in Gettysburg. Hopefully she will find what I want, sadly Boyd's bears was purchased by another company. Apparently the Huge 3 story barn that houses thousands of bears has been scaled back to only 2 stories and they are not as crammed into the store. I really loved that store and hope by the time I get back there they are up to their former glory, it would be sad to see an anemic version of that store that I once spent 3 hours in. and by teh way I could have spent even more time there, sigh.

Extra Time

The gym was closed today. Normally I get a little bummed that it's closed but it's only for one day this time so I was going to enjoy the extra time in my day. I spent all morning "spending" my extra time. I could go to the library, do some shopping, or walk around the neighborhood. Seriously I spent allot of time pondering what to do with my extra hour.

In the end I used it for cleaning the apartment, sucky I know. But I was loosing to Pat in the new chore chart and I couldn't have that. Plus it's nice to have a clean(er) apartment.

Pat will not be happy when he realises that he's lost again. but don't feel too bad for him he can still get caught up tomorrow, he won't.

Today's Steps; 4021

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

The Conversations of my Marrage

First I have to say I got Pat, good (see the haircut post).

I called from work in the morning asking if he needed anything from Trader Joe's. He listed off a few things, all needing refrigeration, so I let him know that I wouldn't be able to get them. During the day I decided to wait until the weekend so I could get everything he wanted.

I got home and let him know before I left for the gym that we would go together this weekend. After I got back I reiterated the story.

As we were cooking dinner together he turned to me and asked if I had gone to Trader Joe's.

'what did I just tell you 10 minutes ago?'

'um. . . '

I then fill him in on the details, again. We will go together this weekend with a cooler! I think he finally got it, on the 3rd try.


Then a few minutes later a different conversation all together.

I set reminders for almost everything on my cell phone. Seriously it's the only way I remember anything.

My phone rang the reminder ring and I was baffled. What could I possibly need to remember tonight? Then it dawned on me.

'Pat is it the 8th?'

'It's almost 8' he replied

'No is it the 8th of October' I asked again

'what' he says

'Is it the 8th of October'

'Yes'

(I can't wait until we are 80, then again maybe we will learn to communicate by then, The hearing-aids can only help)

Anyway I realized that it was Anne's Birthday. I gave her a call and got all caught up while Pat cooked dinner.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Stealing Time

Pat called me as I was leaving the office, he was going to be late getting home. YEA!

This meant I was able to steal a few extra minutes at the gym. I only took 15 but it felt good. I was surprised to see he wasn't home yet, Even with the extra time at the gym. I was able to shower and get dinner done before he walked through the door. I was a stellar wife tonight!

** I feel that I should note that Pat is not often home late so when he is, it's nice to have extra time to work out or watch TV shows that he hates. I do like when he's home it's just nice sometimes to have time with out him, so don't worry!

Today's steps;

Monday, October 6, 2008

To Grandmothers house I go

It is all set, I'm going to DC for Grandpa's birthday. I can't beleave he's going to be 90! We will celebrate both grandpa and grandma's birthday at the same time as they are close together. Originally I was going to go out for grandma's birthday but it will work better and feel like more of a party with the rest of the family (or as many as can attend).

I also will take the opportunity to hang out with Sheryl whom I haven't seen in who knows how long. She is going to a Autm festival with her friends and I happily offered to tag along (after she asked of course). It will be a nice weekend trip.

I told Pat that I was definitly going and he said ' I know I read it on your g-mail status'

How sad is it that he found out about my trip from my e-mail! I guess I should have told him before changing my status message. Lesson learned for now, I'm sure it will be forgotten soon.

Today's Steps; 7775

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Review

For our anniversary Pat and I spent the night at a bead and breakfast in the Delaware water gap. It was called the Shepard House Bed and Breakfast. It must have been painted since they posted the web page, online it is white, in person it is olive green. Not as minor of a detail when you are looking for the house. (Also the photo is from the back of the house). Anyway once we found it we checked in and went to the room, it was very pretty but also very small. The attached bath was small as well.

After checking in we went to the Blue Tequila for dinner. Pat found it online and thought it looked good. Unfortunately I didn't check the web page. It was Mexican food but it seemed to have a strange pumpkin spice to it. My chicken was chewy and Pat's pork was greasy. I made fun of Pat for choosing a restaurant for our 4th anniversary that lined it's tables with paper, but we got a free movie with the dinner. It's too bad the speakers were tuned to the TVs by the bar. But that made it a silent movie, vintage right?. Pat didn't say much about the dinner until we left. He then informed me that he felt the food was like school cafeteria food, YUM! I told him he had better do a great job for our 5th Anniversary.

Then back at the room it was evident that they had not turned the heat on for the year. I suppose for a romantic evening it's not such a bad thing that we did not want to leave the bed, but seriously it was for all the wrong reasons! We had to huddle together to stay worm, Pat wondered why we didn't go camping after all, If we were going to be freezing all night why not do it in a tent. He had a point, it also would have been quieter as our room must have been right next to the house kitchen we could hear the cooking (or cleaning the kitchen or both) from our room. It was LOUD!

The Breakfast was good we had cantaloupe with blueberry yogurt dressing, An egg and cheese casserole and a blueberry muffin for dessert. I did wonder where the meat and veggies were, but it tasted good so I'll give them a pass. No we can't, I really missed the veggies and Pat missed the Meat. In case you were wondering the food was worm but the room was freezing (62 degrees). I really think if you are having people pay to stay at your house you should keep it at a minimum of 65-68 degrees.

Each component on it's own was a little disappointing but the time we spent together was nice. So after it was all said and done it was a successful anniversary. Though maybe I'll help plan next year.

Today's steps; 11283

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Mini-Vacation

Camping is out, Hiking is out.

The bed and breakfast should be nice anyway. Oh?! what am I doing writing the morning we are leaving for the mini-Vacation? It's a backdated post, not that I didn't have time to write on Saturday. I was too busy watching Purdue loose to Penn State. I am not surprised it seems as though Purdue can not get over some mental hurdle that keeps them from ever beating Penn State no matter how good we are and how bad they are.

Leaving late also allowed me to take my Gym time, which I really needed.

Today's Steps;

Friday, October 3, 2008

4 Years

In my 4 years of marriage I have learned a few things.

The in sickness and health vow is one of the most important! Pat and I are in relatively good health, But when it we are sick it's great that we can help each other out.

Bribery works miracles. We were going to go camping for out 4th anniversary unfortunately Pat may have been bitten by another tick. He is on antibiotics and I don't want to be camping with him sweating at night (not sure if that's the antibiotic or if it's Lyme disease). Either way it's too cold, he'd freeze to death or catch pneumonia. So we are going to a bed and breakfast (tomorrow). Hopefully with a hike in there some where.

Diet- When one person's diet changes so does the spouses. (unless your insane like my sister and cook 2 meals every night). Pat has chosen a low carb diet twice in his life. The first was to help fight off the Lyme disease and now just in case. No more easy pasta dinners or rice side dishes, I really like carbs, sigh.

Acceptance- Their are things you have to just accept about your spouse. Pat for instance has to accept my random comments. I think he has learned to love mine. I am still trying to accept his hockey/football habit, don't worry I'm getting there.

Traditions- Every family has them. You need to accept some and merge others. In my family we move Holidays/celebrations to when ever they are convenient, normally the weekend before or after. Pat has learned to accept this. He is a good sport. Come to think of it I'm not sure of any odd traditions the Rodman's have. I'm sure some will come to me later.

Today's steps; 12046

Thursday, October 2, 2008

3 years, 364 days

I awoke this morning to Pat wishing me a Happy day before our anniversary. I'll leave the disbeleif for tomorrow when we hit the actual day. (The neighbors that just moved in accross the hall are getting married 10/4, Pat told them that it was a good month, I agree).

I'm working on training fellow employees on a compter program and frankly it's not my favorite. Actully I have avoided it for too long. It's not that I mind training people, it's just that I don't know the programs that well and that makes it more of a reading off a page. Not really teaching. The more I do It the better/easier it will get.

All other changes to my job have been embraced by me. Some obsessivly. I just need to get over the training hurdle and I'll be the ideal employee again, says me.

Today's steps; 9425

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Danger, Danger, Danger

It seems every fall I get a little heavy handed with the snooze button. Though it started a little later then normal it has started to happen again.

Today however was different. I must have missed the snooze button and hit the reset button. effectively turning off the alarm all together. Lucky for me Pat awoke at 7:05, unlucky for me I still had to shower and get ready for work. I would love to say I got ready in record time but that did not happen. I left the apartment at 7:20 and still had to get gas (Pat borrowed my car and left it empty).

I would like to think I learned my lesson about the snooze button, but I'll bet it will be hit again tomorrow. Hopefully I'll be more careful.

Today's steps; 4376

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Success

My month of 10000 steps is over. Dispite the gym being closed today I managed to get lots of steps at work and reached more then my goal by finising the day with a walk (with Pat no less). That's a long winded way of saying I made it. 10000 steps every day in September. My avarage is 13214.47, not bad.

After this month I have realized what a pain in the ass it can be. I pretty much had to stick to the treadmill in the gym, the elliptical just does not give as many steps. Because I go to the gym every day (for an hour) and I want to start mixing it up you will see lower step counts at least every other day. Those days the elliptical and weights will be on the menu. Hopefully I can get a little faster while running only every other day.

Today's steps; 11319

Monday, September 29, 2008

If found please return ASAP

I have lost my sense of style. Or more to the point the world has lost it's sense of style.

I went shopping for work cloths and to say that I am disappointed is an understatement. Pants I can still find with out too many strange embellishments. The legs seem to be longer then they used to be which is the one fashion trend that I agree with. I like having my ankles covered, I don't show off my socks.

It's covering my top that I have problems with. It's either too cold (it's freezing in the office), too strange or too hard to take care of. I don't dry clean. Allot of the tops appeared to be maternity-ish. Maybe that's because I have a pregnant sister and a sister in law that just gave birth. seeing so many maternity cloths may have made me see that style in normal cloths, but I doubt it. I think I will blame all the pregnant celebrities. They are affecting the normal fashions and making them ugly! (actually Liz has some very nice looking maternity cloths, Angela avoids the camera so I'm not sure).

To avoid cloths that are too cold and too strange, that leaves sweaters. I am sick of wearing sweaters year round. Though they keep me warm a change is desperately needed. I'm in a serious clothing rut that even shopping apparently can not solve.

Today's steps; 15608