I love this crazy, tragic, sometimes almost magic, awful beautiful life

Why is it that at the end of the year we feel obligated to review our year? Why is it only now that we are concerned with how we're living? It seems we should be "concerned" the entire year. And maybe we are, but we just don't say it or really truly think about it.

2007 was a year to be sure. Like everyone, I had ups and downs. My life is like a roller coaster. To quote the song from the title, "The ups and downs and crazy turns along the way. It'll throw you off if you don't hold on tight. You can't really smile until you've shed some tears, I could die today or I might live on for years." If it wasn't so topservy turvey would we even know we were truly living?

I don't do resolutions much. I find that it's generally just setting myself up to fail, and well, I just don't need that. Instead, I like to think of a theme. Last year I didn't really solidify a theme so I just lived. Not sure yet if it was all that different from when I do have a theme, but with a theme it helps keep me focused.

This year's theme: Drum roll please.

LIVE IT! LOVE IT! LEAVE IT!

It came to me last night while I was reading my Christmas letters from people. I thought about what it was about life that really holds people back.

LIVE IT! - Instead of being all wordy and talking about doing things. Do them. Don't wait for anyone to be available to do the things you want (or wait for the weather to be perfect), just go out and do it. And I think it goes without saying that living it includes new adventures. New things I've not done before, but have wanted to.

LOVE IT! - I have a lot of things I'm passionate about. Some I've jumped in full tilt and have embraced all there is (i.e. cooking). Some things I've only have mastered and feel I just need to work a bit more to really see my passion come to life (i.e. photography). And finally, there are some things I do that I question almost every time I do them as to WHY I'm doing them - sometimes it seems silly (i.e. scrapbooking) and yet I love it. So enough of that. If I love it, I will learn it, study it, live it. (see #1).

LEAVE IT! - We all have it. Baggage. For some reasons there are things I have yet to be able to let go of. I'm unsure if these things are holding me back, but I suspect they might be. So this year, I'm going to focus on leaving things. Letting things go. (i.e. XXXcrush, friends who no longer exist). Not having to understand why things happen, but to just accept that they happened for a reason, and move on. (See #1 and #2 above).

And with that, I say look out 2008. So I lift a cup of cheer for Auld Langs Syne (which I think means "days gone by and says we will always remember them").

Fork me a Some Fondue Goodies

Y-A-W-N! I'm a tired girl today. My birthday party last night took the wind out of me. I got to sleep in today until 7:35. Blasted being old. I laid in bed waiting for sleep to come back, begging the sand man to stop by for just a couple more hours. No such luck. I think the sand man woke the feline in the house on his exit. Argh.

Last night's party was a complete success, as expected. I mean how could it go wrong with fondue, friends and a 70's theme? My apartment was decorated with some snazzy little swirlys. I found myself a pimp daddy hat to wear with my 70's-ish outfit. Megan brought her pimp daddy hat too so we were like twins, but not. We started the festivities with a fantastic cheese fondue with fantastic little dippers like bread, vegi's, and apples. OMG it was good. I kept warning everyone to not fill up on cheese because the best was yet to come.

We stood around my table and fed ourselves with chicken, beef, shrimpees, and vegi's. I made some dipping sauces that kicked ass. I spiced up Uncle Dan's ranch dressing that was OMG so good. A peanut dipping sauce that was a bit spicy, but OMG so good. A hoisin/soy/huli huli sauce that was OMG so good. And a cocktail sauce that I added some zipBamBoom to and was, you guessed it - OMG so good. Did I mention that the fondue was OMG so good? BTW it was later pointed out that Megan and I didn't have the gangsta sign quite right so they called us White Girl Ganstas!

But wait, there's much much more. I decided to use one of the mega Toblerone bars I brought back from London for the chocolate fondue. I swear to you we all needed a cold shower after eating that. I added some heavy cream and cognac to it and it was DELICIOUS! I also made a caramel sauce for dipping too. I figured the chocolate would go the fastest, and yet the caramel was gone in a heartbeat. I had marshmallows, graham crackers, apples, raspberries, pound cake, angel food cake, ginger snaps, and apples for dipping. I started with a marshmallow in the chocolate and thought I found heaven. Then....then I made the discovery of the apples in the caramel....OMG. Definitely needed a cold shower.

The gang was all here and left full of fondue and wine. From left to right: The Newly Weds Mike and Nancy, Vanessa's mom, Pink hat me, Vanessa, Blueberry, Mark, HikerGirl, PimpDaddy Megan, and Chicken Lady in the front.

Thanks everyone for making my birthday a memorable and fun filled event. I need to start planning for next year's big Four O!

You Look Like a Monkey...and You Smell Like One Too.

I'm not sure what is actually worse about today. That I'm another year wiser, older, more experienced? Or that I'm up at O'dark thirty on this blessed day?

Yes you got that right, it's my birthday! Happy Birthday to me! Happy Birthday to me! Happy Birthday to MeeeeEEEEE. Happy Birthday to me!

Before I get into the planned celebration of this fantastic day that really should be a holiday for everyone. And in fact, most people get today off. I got home last night and spent the first 30 minutes reassuring Pookie that I would never EVER leave him alone again for 7 days. Sheesh! You would think he was the master of this place. Oh wait, he is.

Thursday before I left, the family treated me to a dinner at Lil' Abner's in Tucson. It was hyped up as some kind of magnificent steakhouse, so I was all in. I love me my steak. Dad's BBQ is usually my preferred steak location. Dad has competition though. Lil Abner's has no menu. It's a old looking shack that allows everyone to write on the walls. Every wall has ink on it. Even the ceiling had writing. I saw my name at least a dozen times, but felt obligated to put my own stamp. It's an interesting restaurant. As I said, there are no menus. The offer only a few items. a 2 lb Porter House Steak, a 7 oz petite filet, a half of chicken, half or whole rack of beef or pork ribs. Each protein is served with family style beans, and Texas toast. Baked potatoes can be ordered too. But that's it. When the waitress said a 2 lb porterhouse all I could think was, "Who could eat that??" I didn't see it ordered once while we where there. I had the petite filet and it was delicious! Afterwards, I was greeted with a round of "Happy Birthday" and a free chocolate sundae that was made with HOMEMADE chocolate sauce. OMG it was so good.

Now for today's actual festivities. As I mentioned in a past post I'm having a fondooooOOOO party. It should be quite fun. I'm a bit behind the 8 ball though since I've really not planned a thing. But thankfully I'm up early today to get things done on time. Stay tuned for details of the event. OMG I can't believe I'm this age. I just looked at the photo above and can't believe I'm -gulp - Thirty Nine. How'd that happen?

Christmas 2007 is almost over

As I sit and type this I'm sitting on the porch with the sun shining and warmth everywhere. The wind is kicking up so it's getting a bit chilly, but nothing I can't handle. It just sure feels nice to be in the sun.

Santa was good to me this year, got some good gifts that even I didn't know I wanted. Got a nice Pashmina shawl mom carried all the way over from Greece. Also got a nice hand carved wood salad bowl that was carved out of a root of some tree. It's gorgeous. Oh and meet Count Beau of Hershey - he looks so cute with those antlers.

Last night we had our traditional Frito-Lollies for dinner. A couple new people at dinner who had to be trained in the proper preparation of Frito-Lollies. (And in case you aren't aware of Frito-Lollies, they are corn chips and chili with all the fixings.)

Today we did the normal Christmas with big breakfast and opening gifts. HikerGirl, Beau, Schuster (the two poodles) and I went for another hike/walk at Catalina State Park. Beautiful day for it. The wind made it a bit crisp, but we survived. On our walk we stumbled onto this saguaro. I counted about 25 arms, which the family determined meant this one was about 200 years old.

Dinner was a prime rib, with potatoes, green beans, and salad. Delicious! Dad BBQ'd the prime rib and did his normal fantastic job. We had a crowd here again and everyone left full and promising to never eat again.

Pictured below back row from left to right: Dick Gale, Dad, Bob Grabo (high school buddy of dad), HikerGirl, Bruce Sanderson, me.

Front Row / Left to right: Holly Sanderson, Cortney Sanderson, Mom, Lano Gale, Uncle Dick (Mom's brother)

The Long Arm of a Cactus

Hello from the land of Saguaro's (sah-wah-rohs). I have to say, every single time I'm in Tucson, I feel like I'm home. Maybe I was a Saguaro in a previous life. I'm prickly enough at times.

HikerGirl and I took off on a grand adventure around Tucson. The MomUnit mapped out our path so we wouldn't get lost. Map in hand, HikerGirl as the navigator (which I found out way into the trip she hated) and we were off. Our first stop was Gate's Pass to look out over this valley that looked as if it went on forever. HikerGirl got the hiking bug and up she went to an outlook, then she came down and drug me up. I'm glad she made me. It was beautiful.

The drive up to this vista was beautiful as well. Saguaro's line the hill side and look to be little fingers sticking out of the ground. These cactuseseses (cacti's? cacti? whatever the plural of cactus is) absolutely fascinate me. I learned something this trip too about these lovelies. A saguaro may grow an arm every 50-75 years. So when you see one in the area that has 5 arms it's average age is 160 years old. Oy-vei that's old. They grow on average just an inch a year, but that depends entirely on the moisture they were able to store. Some saguaro's are 30 feet tall here. There's been a few I've stood next too and they appear to be almost two stories high, I swear. These trees (and yes they are trees) line the slopes of the mountains here like pine trees do in Washington. They're everywhere. And of course, I've named everyone of them Ned.

After wandering through the desert and hiking a wee bit we were famished. I mean since we've done nothing but eat the entire time we've been here, it had been about 2 hours since we last ate. So off we went. First we had to stop and see the San Xavier de Bac. This mission was established in 1699 and is still in use today. In fact, we got there in time for mass. Which was unfortunate in that we couldn't go inside to see how beautiful it was. The front of the mission was also being renovated so I couldn't get the money shot I had planned.

Finishing there, we headed north again to historic Tucson and hopefully a place to eat. When I read about historic Tucson I was so excited to walk through all the old buildings and see history everywhere. I figured since it was a tour trap it would be packed and so braced myself for all the people milling about. Getting a little lost, or "misguided" at first, we eventually what we found. We drove right through it the first time not realizing it...that's how small it was. Oh and have I mentioned it was a ghost town? Not a soul in sight. No one. We just shrugged our shoulders,looked to the left and there was El Charro's Mexican restaurant. Home of the chimichanga...so they say. Apparently the chimichanga was an accident, and the word chimichanga means thingymajig. Either way, we had the BEST food I've had in a Mexican restaurant in a long time. Delicious!

From there we headed to Catalina State Park for some hiking. The sun was starting to set and we were due home for, you got it, dinner. So HikerGirl and I walked through a trail and ended up at a river - no lie - water was running through it. We walked have the way out and couldn't go any further. So we turned around and took another path. Walked about 15 minutes marveling at the nature around there. Turned and saw an entire ridge of saugaros. Loads of them.

Today is Christmas Eve so The DadUnit and I are headed out for our traditional shopping and lunch. He's been very cranky this year so far so this should be interesting.

Luggage! Luggage! Where for art thou?

Hi campers,
I can't believe it's been since Tuesday that I last shared with you my life, but that's how it goes. A lot has gone on since then. For one, I'm in Tucson. Yay me!

HikerGirl and I head south on Thursday morning to spend the holidays with my parental units and some other fantastic family down here. We departed for the airport on time and had NO lines to speak of really once there. I was, in fact, quite surprised that it took us all of 5 minutes to get through security. No lie! We made it to the "other" side and promptly found ourselves in the new-ish mall area of SeaTac having soup and a drink before our flight.

It should be pointed out that while we were giving the gods our luggage we joked about how Blueberry ALWAYS loses her luggage. I jested that she should toss her luggage and start fresh.

Fast forward to Tucson. My flight was on time, HikerGirls was slightly delayed. I wondered down to baggage claim to meet the parental units and then off to find my luggage while I left them there holding down the fort. I watched as all the travelers picked their suitcases and off they went. Round and round they went. Then ... it stopped. Er, ah, this can't be good is all I could think.

So, now what? The luggage lady was standing there and promptly offered to help me. Discussing my situation with her, we noticed a suitcase that looked exactly like mine, but blue. LuggageLady surmised that perhaps the owner of that suitcase mistakenly took mine. Great. I'll never see my favorite sandals again!

Into the little room that stunk of old cigars and she took my information. Including where they should send the luggage should it show up.

All I could think was that karma was getting me. I joked about Blueberry's luck, and here I was without a toothbrush.

We headed home. Armed with a phone number to call in the morning to check. I wasn't hopeful. I mean, after all, the last time I lost my luggage it took 5 days to get to me. I was already planning my new wardrobe I'd certainly have to buy now.

Friday morning I was shaken awake by dad handing me my cell phone (at 6:38 AM). It was the express luggage people and they had my luggage. Apparently it wanted to leave Seattle on the later flight. Yay! About noon - ish yesterday I got my luggage. Everything, including my favorite sandles.

The MomUnit, good friend of the family, HikerGirl and I are head to Mesa today for their swapmeet. Can't wait. I love wondering through those things seeing all the crap that people are willing to buy. Twenty bucks says I come home with some crap!

Yesterday it rained and was brrrrr cold. Today, the sun is high in the sky. It's about 31 degrees right now, but I know Arizona and it will be 70 by noon and I'll be happy as a clam.

A Day in the Life of PMQ and PMDude

A conversation today between PMDude and myself. Sit back, get your groove on and enjoy, or be disgusted…


Jenn says: It's because I have http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1982CsSlIA&feature=related in my head

PMDude says: Oh dear god in heaven

Jenn says: You'd sooo miss it if I weren't here...

PMDude says: for a split second, i was excited to see what that was.

Jenn says: You'd never have a full appreciation of just how bad of music is out there.

PMDude says: good point

PMDude says: there's a pile of music that I've endured the first 5 seconds of.

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXPunYxhU_8

PMDude says: you leave me no choice

Jenn says: bring it on

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMycfdNdlKA

Jenn says: You interrupted Franky Valli for that?

PMDude says: could have been worse:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQ5eZSa7URA

Jenn says:
Oh.
Jenn says:
My.
Jenn says:
God.

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx64_N4AA04

Jenn says: I can't watch that without laughing

PMDude says: Are you declaring war?

Jenn says: Who me?

Jenn says: "I eat them raw like sushi" come on? Those are some damn solid lyrics

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnzgNAzquCw

Jenn says: Marky Mark...he's hot...

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vp-is6S_b_g

PMDude says: I like him better as an actor

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aI8OM8tydlw

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcsvm_rcmDw

PMDude says: OMG

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dE9oiMLIHGA

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YeI6WFEaFkM

Jenn says: I couldn't even listen to that one...

PMDude says: I'm still listening

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7l250E5uM4

PMDude says: wow

Jenn says: but wait...there's much much more

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=387ZDGSKVSg

PMDude says:
o
PMDude says:
m
PMDude says:
g

Jenn says: Okay, I have to stop...there are too many bad 80's rap

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMjM7292eHk&feature=related

PMDude says: YES!!

Jenn says: Holy cow... that's some kind of wild 80s hair

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-O4sSZc2WCU

PMDude says: That's on my iPod

PMDude says: This one isn't:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xk8Yo4pzhWs

Jenn says: It is on mine...

Jenn says: I officially think you won this battle...but since you opened that door http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unBACOHFXes

PMDude says: I hate you. Why'd you have to bust out the britney

Jenn says: You started it with MMM Bop (which I just mis-typed to MMM Bob...)

PMDude says: i give

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxXLp-2J3wI

Jenn says: OH MY GOD...SICKO A brazilian as**shaker

PMDude says: He is about as worthy of breathing oxygen as Skippy is.

PMDude says: In fact... Skips new nickname is K Skid

Jenn says: I'm all in.

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlKocJWE5S4

Jenn says: That songs on my iPod - but in Spanish

Jenn says: Now we're talking H.O.T.

PMDude says: o dear god

PMDude says: you leave me no choice:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6blgjF6UkU

Jenn says: Oh dammit...i thought it was a song by http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4qVJnhZwWY

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FWI_fLkw3k&feature=related

PMDude says: talk dirty to me... WOW... I had erased that from my head.

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMlyqKa1p78&feature=related

PMDude says: holy crap

PMDude says: Ok. it's over

PMDude says: officially

Jenn says: Now this is bad...but this thread got me thinking about it.

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NdAUnnU9Ac

PMDude says: classic

PMDude says: forever - you know that one?

Jenn says: from?

PMDude says: Perfect. one moment please.

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbPKaIozS-c

Jenn says: oh..it has subtitles... good...i can sing it...

PMDude says: complete with black/white flannel

Jenn says: I'm all verklemped...

PMDude says: good.

Jenn says: oh it's not over...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cU_9-uuKz0I

PMDude says: are you expanding the context here?

Jenn says: Apparently

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anLfoy2XsFw

Jenn says: but sadly that song led to this one...don't ask...

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPstB-1TXGU

Jenn says: he totally looks like a p*rn star

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFaXTcR4dtE

PMDude says: you gotta stop and take that all in...

Jenn says: Right...taking it in... Much like this one...: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtyJbIOZjS8

PMDude says: I watch that one almost weekly

Jenn says: shocking

PMDude says: hate you

Jenn says: not yet you don't

Jenn says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sn7d7gZj_qc

PMDude says: OH MY GOD!!! My sister used to love this song when she was like 5

Jenn says: Personally I'd LOVE to see the DMQ gang sing it.

PMDude says: "the guys"?

Jenn says: Yes. My guys.

PMDude says: Ok... outside the genre' but annoying nonetheless: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCQuFYH79tQ

Jenn says: and which genre are we talking? We've been all over the board.

PMDude says: good point

PMDude says: Classic:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9_ZP8HMz6Y&feature=user

Jenn says: OMG... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5K26y7J2rOo

PMDude says: that's just wrong

Jenn says: on so many levels

PMDude says: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5t5GukrWOU

PMDude says: i win

Jenn says: RU Sure? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gs37NSLy3z4

PMDude says: Ok... that's a good one too

Jenn says: speaking of being wrong: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wlw2EMpIYes&feature=related

PMDude says: do people really have that kind of time?

Jenn says: we apparently do...

I Work My Fingers To the Bone, to Make Myself a Name

The MomUnit all but "demanded" I write a new blog. Sheesh! Doesn't she know I'm a busy busy girl this time of year? She should, she is, after all, me, just many many Many year's older. (Smooches mom - see you in two days, then you can kill me).

So what has had me so busy?

Friday, Blueberry and I went to see Jersey Boys. OH. MY. God. What a fantastic show! It's rare, that my increasingly cynical self, comes across a musical that absolutely mesmerizes me. This particular show...whoa! I never knew I was such a Franky Valli and the Four Seasons fan. I knew every song they sang, and sang along with the crowd. As we were listening/watching them increase in stardom, I'd turn to Blueberry every other song and say "Dudley sings that song." (insert stalker status here). The other thing I never EVER do is buy the CD they sell there at the show, but this time I couldn't help myself. The actors were so incredibly talented and the music was so good, I figured why not. I've been listening to Jersey Boys for three days straight now. (Not too surprising, I have My Eyes Adore You stuck in my head).

My favorite songs in order of favorite:

1. Can't take My eyes off of you - I wasn't even a live yet.

2. My Eyes Adore you

3. December 1963 - a nasty little song - in a good way - when you actually listen to the lyrics

4. Sherry (Number 1 of the Top 10 worst this year)

And since I know you're dying to know, Dudley does Can't Take My Eyes Off of You and December 1963. I'd LOVE to hear them do My Eyes Adore you as a ballad instead of Me and Mrs. Jones (I happen to hate that song, though when Paul sings it he does such a good job, I almost forget I hate that song.)

That was Friday.

Saturday was a big party at some friends house. I did my obligatory eating, drinking and being merry. It was fun. I like and despise this time of year for the social engagements that crop up. I am the first in line for a gathering of friends, but during the holidays it almost gets to be too much. I know, I should stop my belly aching and be happy I even have friends to celebrate with. I'm just sayin....

Sunday, Blueberry and I had dinner with some college friends. They bought this fantastic house 4 years ago and we are just getting around to getting down there. It was good clean fun to sit and get caught up with them. We made the "promise" to try to see each other more than once a year. But you know how that goes.

I got to thinking on Saturday about my reputation. One of the guests said something to me about my "reputation" being at stake (I don't even recall the details of the conversation, so don't ask) and it got me thinking about what my reputation actually is. While I know what the word means, I called on my old friend Merriam to tell me what it really means.

1 a: overall quality or character as seen or judged by people in general

b: recognition by other people of some characteristic or ability

2: a place in public esteem or regard : good name

Hmmm? I had thought my character drove my reputation to some extent, but it never really crossed my mind that other people have control, almost as much as I do, over my reputation.

A couple of weeks ago I did an online version of the Johari Window. The basic concept of this exercise is to map personality awareness. You basically describe yourself first from a list of adjectives, then you ask friends, family, co-workers etc to describe you from the same list. Once mapped out you get a grid with four quadrants: Known to Self/Known to others, Known to Self/Not known to others, Not Known to Self/Known to others and Not Known to Self/Not Known to others.

In my window there were a few in the Not Known to Self, but known to others quadrant that I felt I knew about me (friendly, witty, trustworthy, giving, etc) and a few surprises of what people knew about me that I didn't know about myself (able, adaptable, complex, logical, observant etc). The "Facade" quadrant had Proud as the only word to describe me that I Knew about myself, but others didn't know about me (well until just now).

I guess my point is, that it's an interesting exercise to think about what your reputation is and how it differs from people to people. My reputation at work, I'm sure, differs from my reputation with my friends (there probably is some overlap, but generally speaking). And do I need to investigate what that reputation is and make changes to it? What reputation do I want to have? Inquiring minds want to know. And I think 2008 may be the year to seriously think about it.

It's a GIRL

But of course we knew that before the blessed day.

Everyone, I'd like you to meet my second great niece, Nadia RaeAnn. Born yesterday at 3:35PM St. Louis time. Niece and great niece are both doing fine. I've demanded more pictures already, so stay tuned for them.

In the meantime, you can enlighten yourself with this ... I was tagged by Freak Magnet (and I'm not sure I forgive her yet).

(1) Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.

(2) People who are tagged need to write a post on their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules.

(3) At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names

1. I haven't completely, 100% let go of the XXXcrush yet. Blasted name keeps popping up in my mind.

2. I stalk DMQ.

3. I have two dads. Biological father and the wonderful man who raised me. I only have one mom though - thank god. Twice the mom guilt I could not handle.

4. I have 4 nephews, 4 nieces, 2 great nieces, and a partridge in a pear tree

5. I am100% comfortable in my current career as PMQ. Though secretly I hope to one day actually live up to my reputation.

6. I think it's a tough job being so gorgeous, but someone has to do it.

7. Sometimes I laugh out loud at the expression my crazy cat gets on his face.

8. I am $350 away from being debt free (minus the monthly car payment).

So I tag: PMDude (hoping this will get him to blog), Rabitt (just because), Captain Sarcastic (do I dare?), the MomUnit, Ken/Vicki, BeagleBabe, that's all I've got who blog...unless I count Santa and Jesus like Freak Magnet.

I'm a Cheater

I did it. I cheated. I never EVER thought I would, but I did.

I cheated on Dudley Manlove. Now in my defense, a girl HAS to get her band on, and when DMQ isn't available for said girl to get her said band on, said girl must take matters into her own hands.

I thought I'd feel terrible about cheating, but in fact, come to find out, I'm A-Okay with it. Does that make me a bad stalker?

So what, you ask, type of band possessed me to cheat on my band? The Blokes of course. The husband of a gal in the office plays in this band. She too is a DMQ fan, though not nearly as over the top as I am, and she suggested I come see them. She was sure I'd like them. And like them I did.

Them Blokes! do British cover songs (Side bar: I seem to suddenly be surrounded by all things British. Not that that's a bad thing, I'm just sayin'.) Tom Jones, The Beatles, Snow Patrol, Elvis Costello, Van Morrison, and Olivia Newton-John. What? She sorta sounds British.

I mention Miss Newton-John because the funniest song they sang all night was "You're the One that I want" with a strong Scottish brogue. Two guys doing the duet, both with "ugly hair" prop on, singing with a Scottish brogue...hilarious. "You're the one that I want - Oy."

And in other news, I'm feeling extraordinarily stressed at work. This place has turned into Chatty Kathy's home away from home. I miss our quiet-ness we once had when there were only PMDude and I. It was quiet. I was productive. Now we have somehow managed to hire loud, very talkative people who feel the need to socialize at very high volumes. It's just not fair! I want my money back!

And on every street corner you hear....

DMQ Rocks!

Last night, as you know because you're avid readers, was the Dudley Holiday show. The Holiday show is my second favorite show - after the Halloween show of course. Blueberry was my fortunate sidekick for this show and we got our holiday groove on with our special red antlers.

Blueberry - god bless her - piped up and asked the bassist a question about their Christmas CD which prompted a good 15 minute conversation with Steve. Out of all the members of DMQ Steve is one that I've not had a chance to actually speak with.

He's very amusing and seemed to enjoy listening to us babble about our love for their band. In fact, humble is what I felt he was. They have local stardom to be sure, but Steve seemed to be very humble about the enjoyment they provide to their fans. Oh and once I mentioned to Steve I was 1) the flamingo from Halloween and 2) "jennwraspir" I swear to you a light bulb went off and he was all, "Ohhh it's you." He commented on how often my name shows up on their blog and what not. Hmmm? Stalker? Me thinks not.

Following the conversation with Steve, Craig - the lead guitar player - was ordering a beer near us and I struck up a conversation. Also, a very friendly, charming man. I always enjoy chatting up the guys in this band and asking questions about the band and their experiences. It's clear they do enjoy what they do and that none of them thought they'd be around 13 years after their first gig. Craig commented on enjoying the videos on my blog from the Halloween show. Suddenly I thought about all the DMQ comments I've made on this blog and wondered if there was any incriminating evidence to my stalker-ness. I did also comment to Craig that I was working on stalker status in a selfish attempt to get a discount on them for my 40th birthday. He seemed amused at the minimum.

But the most important part of the show was the singing of the Grinch. It was the ONLY song I really had to hear. And the boys did not disappoint.

The did a few new songs this show - songs I actually knew and liked - as well as some older songs they've done for years. The ended the second set with my ALL TIME FAVORITE Dudley song combo - Ring of Fire and I wanna Be Sedated. Seems like an odd combination, but I assure you it's a medley that gets the place rocking.

Speaking of the place rockin, Blueberry and I had "issues" with a few characters in the crowd. First and foremost we think there was "Munchkins Night Out". I swear to you as a not so tall person (well average height) that there were some seriously short people there last night. And by seriously short I mean, 4 foot - maybe. I was starting to get a little munchkin phobia going on. They were everywhere!

In front of me during the first set, we had a gal I amusingly labeled "Chicken Dancer". Her dance "technique" involved bouncing/bobbing her head like a chicken, and flapping her arms about like one would do if one was doing the chicken dance.

An unexpected issue arose last night that caused our night to be cut a bit shorter than I would normally have liked. Remember a few days ago in which I showed my graceful personality and bit it in the parking lot? Well, my right leg has a 6" bruise / scrapes / cuts on my shin, and my right knee is black and blue and red all over. I hadn't anticipated the pounding of the bass through the speakers would aggravate my bruise. Each little movement caused a bit of pain. That coupled with me "dancing" about and standing for 2 hours my right leg ached like mad after the second set. And so Blueberry and I decided to call it a night.

Is it considered insane to put potato chips into your sandwich before each bite? I'm not saying I do that, I might depending on the sammy. I'm SURE there are other's out there who are equally as odd. I do other odd things with regards to food that I'm sure just adds to my character.

PMDude is finally back in the office after being gone for what seemed like an eternity. His escape was legitimate though as he had to play dad to the world's cutest new baby girl - PM Newborn. I see she gets her looks from her dad.

I joke, but PMDude has been missed here. I've had to deal with the Pond Scum team (aka Sales) all by myself in this cube. A girl can only handle so much you know.

And in celebration of his return, I receive this email from him upon my return from lunch:

*************************************************

So Skippy's cell phone rings about 10 min after you left.

The ringtone is some Alice in Chains song and VERY LOUD.

The following exchange ensued:


Creed (Waits till Skippy answers then he says): Hm. … could barely hear that.

PMDude: (Busts out laughing really hard)

Skippy: (turns down a job offer on the phone really loud, hangs up): You guys don’t like Alice in Chains? Lane Staylee is a talented vocalist

Creed: I think I’m downloading an air horn for my cell phone ringer. It would be less noticeable than yours.”

Skippy: I forgot to silence my cell phone this morning.

Creed: Oh Really?


The End

******************************

The world's most perfect job seems to be stretching my noggin in a ways my noggin doesn't stretch. Budgets. Blech! I really REALLY really need to get a grip on numbers. My hatred for math goes way back. Though I suppose budgets aren't really math as much as they are creative accounting. I can be creative. It's the explaining to the powers that be how it is I came to such numbers. I wonder if I can tell them an alien from another planet come to me in a dream and provided me with said numbers. That wouldn't be too far from the truth at this point.

In other worldly news, I bit it in the Fred Meyer parking lot yesterday. Oh no, I'm fine, thanks for asking. The MomUnit, however, instead of providing me with sympathy proceeds remind me of an ill-fated time I bit it in another parking lot only that time I took her out with me. Me thinks that was early karma for her laughing at me this time.

Merry HO Hoo

Well my chickens, last night was the great office holiday party of 2007. I was unsure if this festive occasion would, in fact, be held considering the considerable flooding in our area and the office participants who were bailing due to weather. But even though the winery is in the flood zone we were safe. Office parties are amusing to me. Not only do you get to see your colleagues in an environment you’re not used to seeing them in (assuming, like me, you don’t socialize with your office mates), but you get to meet significant others. For me this is the fun and often scary part. Many times I just tilt my head and think, “huh, I never would have put those two together.” Last night was no exception. I won’t go into details for fear of incriminating myself should this blog be found by some annoying types at work, but let me just say I’ve never been in the presence of a mail order bride.

Ahem.

We had our holiday party at Chateau Ste Michelle winery here in Woodinville. You know Woodinville, the flooding in Seattle that’s been on the national news…that’s Woodinville. Anyhow, the Chateau has been there since 1900. They had to add to the Chateau as they expanded the winery so some of the buildings (the one in this photo for example) were only built in the 50’s. The house we had our party in was built in 1907. They are beautiful grounds they have there. In the summer they do concerts there, expensive concerts, but it is so worth it.

In other blog worthy news, DMQ is doing their holiday show on Friday night. You realize that this is my second favorite DMQ show. I know I say every show is my favorite…but this show they sing the GRINCH, which happens to be my favorite Christmas movie and song. No it doesn’t say anything about my attitude during the holidays, I happen to love Christmas. They also do a medley song of Christmas carols that everyone knows and love. In that medley they do this song. Which I admit I didn’t even realize was a real song until I decided to YouTube it. Of course, it’s country. What other genre would beg daddy to not get drunk during Christmas?

The Rain in Spain falls mainly in Seattle

I have a song stuck in my head (Shut it PMDude) and its there because someone said "Pineapple Express", which naturally led to "Put the lime in the coconut." ahem...

Anyhow....In case you aren't good a maps, Washington is the state just below the Vancouver arrow. (You want fries with that?)

They say in Seattle if you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes and it will change. This weekend was clearly a defining moment in our weather definition. ( Is that redundancy from the dept of redundant behavior?)

Friday it was cold, oh so cold, and grey. Nothing really in part of precipitation. The drama filled news of the area warned everyone of the winter storm that was about to blow in. (Please read that last sentence with high drama). I laughed at them. I chuckled as I fell asleep. Winter storm, right! Whatever.

Saturday I was greeted with, yet again cold , but sunny weather (32F or lower at times). Still no sign of this so called “storm”. And so I sat all snugly and warm in my apt watching Christmas movies and finishing up my Christmas cards. Taking a break I stood up and I glanced out my window…my god…it’s snowing. Oh boy was it snowing. And snow it did. And snowed and snowed and snowed. By gosh golly them news was right. Now, it can stop. Anytime now. The snow can stop. Stop! STOP! I demand it.

By 9pm that night I had 4 inches of snow. Big wet flakes were still falling and the “news” people were saying it was going to turn to rain. “Hah,” I thought! I was sure I’d never dig the Mustang out to get to work on Monday. I opted for sleep over snow watching.

Sunday morning it was raining, a bit, snow and rain mixed at first. Then the rain cam down. It was raining so hard that there was a small river running down my street. It rained all bloody day. Not just a little rain, but serious go get um rain. The kind if you ever think about running to the car you’ll be drenched rain. The good kind. Now it can stop. It’s been raining non-stop since yesterday morning, again, not just piddle little rain, REAL rain. We've had 5 inches since 9 pm last night.

I know what you all are thinking, “but Jenn it rains in Seattle.” And you’d be kinda right. Really it’s just more over cast here than anywhere else. See rain causes issues. Drains get clogged, streets fill up with water, we flood and people drive like idiots.

To top this all off it's the eve of our holiday party and we are facing yet another storm from the Pineapple Express. Great. The holiday party last year was on the same night as the massive wind storm we had that knocked out power everywhere for days. Now this year, rain and floods. What gives! Our party will be at a local winery that happens to be in a flood plain. Oh goody. Can't wait for them to say they have to cancel the party due to salmon fluttering across the flooded roadways.

That's it, I’m calling Noah.

First Snow of the Winter

Y'all know how I love to hate the snow. The weather forecasters yesterday indicated we'd have up to 3 inches here in the hood. I dare say, I didn't believe them. And yet, as I sit here drinking a hot toddy (what? I'm sick. It's the best sick drink there is.) with my so delightful fire, my Christmas tree all aglow, no plans to go anywhere (though it's Claudia's 40th birthday party I have to miss today due to sickness. Happy 40th Claudia!) I can only sing LET IT SNOW! LET IT SNOW! LET IT SNOW!

I had to take the garbage out and so while walking the 4 miles to my garbage can (a slight exaggeration) I took my camera and my new 18-200mm lens with me. It's been snowing since 2 or so and coming down relatively strongly. While I hate the idea of the stang having deal with snow, I sure love the look of the white stuff.

Still harboring this blasted cold. The sickness has moved its way up and I'm now berry congested. But I have everything I need to survive this cold snap: cough drops, NyQuil, fire, hot toddy (or hot chocolate too in case I get too drunk), chicken soup, kleenex and Rattatouie movie.

Twelve Days of Cold Survial

On the first day of cold Survival, my true love sent to me (okay so there’s no true love, but let’s pretend)...A round of denial for towards getting a cold

...Two ZiCam Jolts...

...Three Cold Eeze boxes...

...Four dizzy spells...

...Five little naps...

...Six coughing spells...

...Seven Kleenex boxes...

...Eight headaches pounding...

...Nine sneezes sneezing...

...Ten days of drugs...

...Eleven pitty parites...

...Twelve days complaining...

I've Gone and Done it Now

Aside from this fantastic cold moving it's way through my system, now inconveniently lodged in my nasals passages in the form of mucus. Stupid Cold! I took some Benadryl last night, but think I might have to not take it anymore, it really knocks me out...I drove to work in a fog this morning. In fact can't even remember the drive. Creepy.

So what, you ask, have I gone and done? Well, I've joined Junior Achievement. I've been looking for a way to volunteer and I'm so not the Habitude for Humanity type of volunteer. I just don't see myself on a roof somewhere hammering nails. Which got me to thinking what I was good at, business, professional type of stuff. The MomUnit and Oldest Bro both participated in JA and both enjoyed it tremendously. From their very own website, "Junior Achievement uses hands-on experiences to help young people understand the economics of life. In partnership with business and educators, Junior Achievement brings the real world to students, opening their minds to their potential." Yah, I can bring the real world to life. I'm sure I can.

I've already contacted them, and within seconds had a phone call from them. I so wanted to ask if they were that desperate for volunteers, but decided to be - ahem - professional. I have requested to work with Jr. High students or high school students in and around the Bellevue area. I have a meeting set up as an "orientation" - which probably just means they want to check me out and make sure I'm not some whacko - mental note, don't wear wacko suit that day.

Anyhow, they've got a ton of fantastic programs geared towards business and the real world. I can't wait to get started. I'll have little, mold-able minds to mess with. (insert evil laugh).

Back to my regular scheduled coughing attack.

Achoo! Cough! Hack Hack! Sniffle

For the record, I hate being sick. I'm a horrible sick person. It slows me down. Being sick means I can't go at my normal pace and have to be slowed down to cough, sneeze and blow my nose. I hate it and I want this cold gone. Granted it's only really been a couple of days of full on cold, but the cough has been around for nearing two weeks. Blasted cold/flu season.

I usually do what I can to work from home when I'm sick. Mostly because I'd rather be curled up on the couch with a fire going, hot tea by my side, and in my PJs, than at work coughing annoying everyone around me. See I'm a considerate sick person.

My new favorite cold remedy though is Cold-Eeze. Blueberry hooked me onto these. They "say" that it'll reduce the cold by half the time. Right! By my calculations, an average cold lasts 14 days. Since I've only really just started the nasal drip, more coughing and congestion part, I figure I have a good 5 more days till it's half. So, if I take twice as much Cold-Eeze wouldn't then mean that that time frame (7 days) would thus be cut in half too equaling 3.5 days for a cold and therefore it should be over. Have I mentioned that sometimes cold medicine makes me loopy?

My apartment now looks like a small pharmacy moved in. I have NyQuil (blasted kids who started using NyQuil to get high now all the good stuff that NyQuil had in it is gone). I have lotion-y Kleenex, I have cough drops galore. I have some other cough medicine. And I'm craving tomato soup (basically any time I crave tomato soup I know I'm sick). I made my cold soup last night though and put in a wee bit too much hot sauce. Definitely cleaned my sinuses though.

On top of all of that, I've become a germaphobe now and am constantly wiping down anything I touch at work anyhow. I hate to pass this on to anyone which leads me to wanting to work from home when I'm sick. And I'd be home right now if Pointy Haired boss hadn't scheduled a meeting for me mid day. I had to come in this morning I had several project kick off calls to make and all my stuff was here. My plan was to depart immediately following last kickoff call, but noooooo...have to have another meeting. Their fault if they get sick that's all I'm saying.

In closing, it's obvious that 1) I'm cranky when I'm sick and 2) I make no sense when I'm sick. Please disregard any nonsense written on this blog. I blame the cold medicine.

Do You See what I see?

Well officially, a snowman has blown up in my apartment again. Officially, I've kicked off the holiday season. I've heard many theories as to when to decorate or listen to holiday music, but I tend to ignore them all. My apartment. My rules.

Friday after the feast I cleaned up the joint a bit and then proceeded to make a mess by pulling out all the boxes of Christmas. Each year I try to get rid of some older items and replace them with new ones. I figured if I don't get rid of any I won't be able to walk in the apartment. This year, I got three new ornaments this year. Each year I get new ornaments, and the old ones are easy to replace because I usually break one or two. Then there's the cat who helps with breaking ornaments. He generally leaves the tree alone, but the last two years (this year and last) he's found them interesting and will occasionally walk by and swat at one or two.

Saturday was the Apple Cup, Washington State Univ (my alma mater) and UW rivalry game. This year the Cougs won (WSU) and it was a good game, but both teams were battling out for last place. I had a quickly little Apple Cup party in which we drank Appletini's (Thanks Vanessa) and ate German Apple Cake (Thanks HikerGirl). As I mentioned, the Cougs won 42-35, though they tried to "Coug it".

Sunday evening I read the Project Management for Small Projects book. Another excellent book in my opinion. A lot of items in it were the same old PM stuff, but there were a few other items in which I have already incorporated into my projects. Every little bit can help keep my projects on time and on budget. Of course too many processes makes managing projects too complicated.

I'm not my witty self today as I'm feeling a bit under the weather. I have a cold coming on strong. It's starting with a fantastic cough that won't go away (BeagleBabe- I know you warned me). I decided to work from home this afternoon to save the office mates from my hacking.

Iron Chef Battle: Tom Turkey vs Chef Jenn

Battle Turkey commenced at O dark thirty on Thursday morning. My body thought it was a work day so prompted me to rise early. Since I was awake, I figured why not get up and get to it. Turkey dinner is never an "issue" for me with regards of making it, it's the timing and the damn bird that generally causes me grief. This year would prove to be no different.

I had 8 turkey eaters, two wittle tiny dogs, two LARGE dogs, and a hiding cat for dinner. (We can ignore the cat since he never ever came out) and once you see one of the dogs you'll understand Pookie's reluctance.

First thing in the morning I decided to get the Turkey put together and ready to be put in the oven. I cook my turkey in bags every year because they come out perfectly - so they say. This year Tom was an 18 pounder - which means a very large bird. My goal was to have plenty of left overs. Tom was pulled from his resting position in the fridge and put on a roasting pan rack to have his innards removed. Only Tom wasn't quite thawed. Eh, what? I stood there, transfixed with disbelief that AGAIN my bird wasn't defrosted (last year I had the same issue). Tom had been in the fridge since Sunday, surely he should be thawed. Nope. So into a ice bath with him to get him thawed a bit more to get out the insides. Finally, I was able to prep him accordingly. Vegetables inside, salt/pepper on the outside and now the challenge. Me, an 18 lb slippery bird and a bag. One leg in, the second leg in, first leg pulls out, push it back in, other leg pops out...and so on. Smart as I am, I decided to stick him in from the other end so the legs don't keep popping out. Stupid bird.

Finally, Tom is safely in the bird with relatively little turkey gunk all over me and the kitchen. He's ready for the oven. But first, I must admit that Wednesday I had to call the Turkey Hotline. I had the bag but not the chart to cook it. So I hopped on the phone to call I800 Turkey. A recording greeted me and I sat for 15 minutes until it got to how long to cook the bird. Great, that in hand I knew I was ready.

So according to the Turkey hotline, the 18 lbs of turkey flesh would need 2.5 hours. (Cooking in a bag decreases cooking time.). But knowing that my oven is a bit off (like the cook in the kitchen) I figured 3 hours plus 3o minutes for it to sit after. In at noon it went.

In the meantime, I realized I had voicemails. Voicemail one was from my Bro who called to notify me of a CheezWhiz sighting in a local store. While I giggled at him looking out for his little sister, I was glad I was able to finally find CW at another Fred Meyer store in Bellevue.

Dressing made and in the fridge, broccoli casserole made and in the fridge, carrots made and in the fridge, turkey prepped, I was all set for Thanksgiving by 9am. I had the rest of the day to just hang out. So I sat and watched the Macy's parade.

Guests started to arrive. HikeGirl arrived with Bread in a Can. He Thanksgiving assignment was to bring bread. She thought it would be fun to at least try this Bread in a Can. I feel it is my duty to warn you all....NEVER EVER BUY BIAC. It was disgusting. But at least we tried it.

Claudia and her mom were next to arrive. Their Thanksgiving assignment; cranberries. Not only did they bring cranberries in a can, but homemade cranberry sauce. MMMM.

Sharon and Sally arrived shortly after. Sharon is Mark's sister and Sally is her partner. I've met them both several times and adore both of them. Very low key and easy going people. They brought the "kids" Bella (The Rottweiler) and Ninja (The Lab mix).

Mark and Vanessa brought pie and their two wittle puppies (Buttercup and Teabiscuit).

So as you see I had a crowed. Left to Right: Bella, Claudia, Sally, HikerGirl (Margo), Vanessa with Buttercup, Mark with Teabiscuit, Claudia's mom (Eisell I believe is her name), Sharon, Ninja and Chef Jenn.

So by 2:30 I stuck Tom with a meat thermometer into the breast and it registered 140F. Great, I had easily another hour to reach 180. Which was fine because we had clam dip (another family tradition) to keep us company. At 3:30 I poked the bird again, the breast registered 180F and the thigh 170F, the bird was ready to come out. Tom sat on the stove for 30 minutes as I made the mashed potatoes, cooked the dressing, broccoli casserole and carrots. Then came the daunting task of getting Tom out of the bag without losing all the juices to make the gravy. Claudia and I spent the next 5 minutes struggling, but we won in the end.

I started to carve into Tom, feeling relieved to have won, when, Wait, what... it's still raw in the middle. Holy crap! Then I remembered, it wasn't completely thawed, and perhaps the meat thermometer didn't go in far enough. Dammit! I had 7 hungry people, and a big Rotty waiting for turkey. So Claudia and I carved off the meat that was cooked, thankfully, and served up dinner. What a spread we had. Turkey, dressing, broccoli salad, carrots with brown sugar and walnuts, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade cranberries, real bread (not bread in a can), wine, and good friends.

The battle, in the end, was a tie. I had to cook the rest of Tom as we ate. And now I have a large amount of turkey left to make turkey noodle soup ... mmmmm... Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Burp!

Oh and Pookie did finally come out and gave me the why-for the rest of the night. I gave him a few pieces of turkey to distract him. So easy! So spoiled!

The Mystery of the Missing Cheeze Whiz

One of my favorite turkey day traditions is the making and later eating of the great Broccoli Casserole. My mother has made this for years, and subsequently I HAVE to have it at every Thanksgiving. If I don't, I pout. Where the MomUnit got this recipe is beyond me, but thankful I am for said recipe.

It is absolutely, positively NOT lo-cal in any way, shape or form. I mean one of it's ingredients is Cheez Whiz. CheezWhiz for heaven's sake. Have you ever read the back of the CheezWhiz bottle? Me neither, I'm too afraid of what I'll see.

I've been slowly purchasing all I need for the big feast tomorrow. I'm hosting Thanksgiving for several friends who normally don't do a big family thing. I've got everything I need, including an 18 pound turkey in my fridge thawing out. But I cannot find CheezWhiz.

I started my search at my favorite QFC. They are remodeling and so their inventory is anything but accurate and missing quite a few of my favorite items. I asked the store worker bee where I could find CheezWhiz. This particular worker bee I'm sure flunked out of basic communication class 101 since all he did was provide me with a blank stare as if I was speaking Russian. Moving away from the fellow with glossy eyes, I found the store manager. Requesting my beloved CheezWhiz he directed me to aisle 3. None of the aisles have numbers due to aforementioned remodel. Using my ubber PM deduction skills, I counted three aisles from both sides, and went up and down both those aisles. No CheezWhiz. I found Velveeta, and CheezWhiz in a can, but I need the jarred CheezWhiz.

And so I moved on.

My next stop was my favorite Safeway in which SLSIL and I stopped in this past weekend to purchase a few Thanksgiving items. We wondered to where we thought it would be. Nothing. None. Nada. Zip. But whilst standing in the aisle, the store manager was showing another lad where the CheezWhiz in a can was. How hopeful for us. I asked Mr. Manager if they had it in a bottle. He said they are not stocking it any longer. Ugh! Why? Why I ask.

Undaunted, I knew of at least 4 other stores I could hit without driving way out of my way. Yesterday, I hit the local Safeway by my office. Nope. They aren't carrying it either.

On the way home yesterday, I hit QFC, an Albertson's and another Safeway. None of them carry it. What? Why? Without CheezWhiz how can my broccoli casserole live. Though all stores mentioned Velveeta to me. The poor, unfortunate store manager of the last Safeway I stopped at was gifted with a 38 year old woman, about ready to break down and throw a tantrum over CheezWhiz. I swear to god I was seconds a way from throwing myself on the floor and kicking and screaming until someone got me my CheezWhiz.

Pulling myself together, I figured the Fred Meyer in the Hood (aka Lynnwood in which I live) might, just might have it. I mean after all, CheezWhiz is something that I see as a lower income type of food - like deep fried pig ears and generic beer (both of which are sold at said Fred Meyer). I drive my sorry ass to Fred Meyer, fighting traffic as I go. Cursing the broccoli casserole and it's need for CheesWhiz (followed close by a curse to the MomUnit for ever introducing me to this tantalizing treat). Fighting an SUV for a parking spot (all the while ducking so if gun shots would ring out perhaps they'd miss me). I darted into the FM, went to the information counter and asked. Missy, the worker on duty, gleefully said, "Why yes, we do carry it. Let me show you." Following the overly perky, way too cute Missy, we stopped in front of the processed cheese in the refrigerator section. Scanning quickly, she realizes it's not there. Turns and indicates to me to follow her. I follow Missy, to aisle 7. She points to the top shelf. Excitedly I rub my hands together, I sweat in anticipation of finally finding my long lost CheezWhiz in a jar. I glance up and see Missy pointing at Velveeta!

I give up. Velveeta it is. God only knows how this casserole will turn out.

I did happen upon the wine aisle as I walked, defeated, to the cash register. Bought myself a bottle of wine to wash down my sorrows with.

The first step in addictions

The first step is admitting you have an addiction right? I admit I just might have one. I know I have an addictive personality (and I would add that includes people being addicted to me – I’m just sayin’) in that once I latch on to something to do or read or whatever, I obsess with it like crazy until I’ve completed the task, or I’ve grown bored.

Examples of said additive personality include Scrapbooking. I tend to start a “project” or a new scrapbook and focus on it 100% until it’s done. Every waking hour in which I’m not actually at work earning $$ for my addiction, I spend on it until it’s done – or more accurately until I run out of brilliant ideas.

Another glaring example is photography. While I used to be a photographer, then gave it up when I gave up an X-BF and now I’ve decided to be a photographer again. I put all my energy into re-studying, buying a new camera, going out and shooting to remember what the hell I was doing, processing photos, making notes, reading books, posting photos, etc. Until at last I felt comfortable with my ability again.

Then we always have the Chef Extraordinaire addiction. Everyone who knows me knows of my addiction to recipes, and more accurately my addiction of trying new recipes. I have a brandy snifter in which I have little scraps of paper with a recipe on it. Each week I pull one, two or three recipes out (depending on my availability to cook at home) and try them. I set a goal to get through the brandy snifter by the end of the year. Dumb Goal to be sure. First off, I keep adding 10-20 new recipes each month. Second, I couldn’t possibly have enough time to try the thousand that were already in there. So in an attempt to help me with my goal, I sat and went through each-and-every piece of paper and removed the appetizers and desserts. Once that job was done I had only about 750 recipes. Still too many, so adjusted my goal to be “as many as possible”.

And so the point of this entire blog is that I’ve latched onto another item that suddenly is in the forefront of my mind. Now, you all know that I’m a major PM nerd. Geek with a capital G. I love everything about PM’ing – with the exception of budgeting. Why? Because a numbers girl I ain’t. I knew I could learn about budgeting, or get hints/tips etc from a book somewhere, like say Amazon. And so the search began.

In my search for a book on Amazon I uncovered three more PM books I absolutely can’t live without. And so here I am with three new PM books to read (have I mentioned I love curling up at night with a good PM read?) and no time to read. It’s killing me I tell ya.

The one I have started, and have had to put a timer to remind me it was time to go to bed is Emotional Intelligence for Project Managers. Now, being I’m a girl, I assumed I was in touch with my emotions. Turns out, not the case at all. This book has a test in it to provide you a level of emotional intelligence. The scale ranges from, do you even know what an emotion is to crying like a baby because of a hallmark commercial. As I said, I naturally assumed I’d be more on the crying side, so you can imagine my surprise when I scored well toward the “do you know what and emotion is.” To my credit, I do think the questions are very directed toward work situations, and admittedly I don’t get “emotional” at work, at least I try not to. Yet, I discovered that – surprise – dislike toward a co-worker is what dropped my score to the basement. Seems if you are judgmental, you score low. But I say, how can you not be judgmental when certain people you work with are idiots? It’s not possible to not judge them. They by their own actions ASK to be judged.

Anyhow, I’m keeping that in mind, but not changing my “feelings” towards certain skiptards in the area. I’m just sayin’.

The second book, which will be an easy read (assuming I get time to read, what in between my busy social calendar, catching up on Smallville, and coffee breaks) is Finish What you Started: 10 Surefire Ways to Deliver your Projects On Time and On Budget. Okay, so any title that uses the word “surefire” should automatically be questionable. Nothings “surefire” unless you put in the effort to make it so. Regardless, there are some tips in there that I’m sure will help me deliver my project, most importantly on budget. It has some killer templates in there for tracking projects effort that I can’t wait to use and more importantly understand. See, this is where I geek out a big (yes I know I’ve already geeked out on you, but deal with it). I love templates. They, to me, drive the process, and provide you with – well – a template, so you don’t have to start from scratch.

The third and final book that I won’t be able to read anytime soon (without calling in sick to work) is Project Management for Small Projects. The reason I thought this would be useful is that the PMBOK and almost all other forms of PM literature assumes that your projects are long (year or more). In our business our projects are typically shorter (3-6 month). There is the occasional long project, but I emphasize occasional. Naturally trying to fit the square long project process peg into a round small project hole, is not easy. Not easy at all. I complete understand that the methodology laid out from PMI should be considered flexible in that not all projects will fit into that box. Yet, I’ve found it hard to put some of their processes into any type of useful practice.

And so I’m *sure* after reading these books I’ll be back in the standing of PM Goddess.

Pet Peeve # 5789
When people ask for assistance and then won't shut their yaps long enough to hear you answer their supposed important question.