And now I have a hairy tongue!

You know that post drinking thing, called a hang over. Jenn, here has one. It's not a bad one, but it has most the classic signs of a hang over.  Things not really clicking right away, brain is a bit behind.

Taste buds feel/taste like they have hair all over the swollen feeling tongue. Of course, my theory is the taste buds are typically the most drunk of any body organs because they get the FIRST taste of the alcohol as it swishes over them.

Things are a bit too bright and too loud.

Yep, I have a hang over. And I should. I, individually, put Pomegranate martini's on the map last night. Lost track of how many times I filled up my 7 oz martini glass, or how many times it was filled up for me. But I didn't care, I wasn't drinking or driving. I was merely going to need enough wherewith all to find my way to my bed, which I'm proud to say I did.

Though interestingly enough, somehow, before I went to bed, I actually put food away so it wouldn't be out all night...yah man...that's me...always worried about the food.

We had some crowd pleasing food here last night too. I asked everyone to bring their favorite appetizers. I did a vegi tray with a Parmesan, peppercorn dip I picked up in Tucson. Then I did meatballs in Huli Huli sauce, and finally an enchilada baked dip. Other appetizers were: ham and swiss crescents, olive tapenade crostini's (OMG these are glorious), small bite size chicken tacos, sushi, See's candy (what? its an appetizer for someone after my own heart), a cheese ball, and lastly a baked crab dip. I was sooo stuffed, but at least the alcohol had something to absorb it. (and look you can see my xmas tree off to the side, and my killer new table I bought some weeks ago).

Everyone who said they'd show up, showed up: Cousin Sherrie, Mark&Vaness, Mike&Nancy, Neil&Taunya, Margo, Erin and her friend Abby (whom I called Eddy all night, don't ask.) and finally the xCrush was here. All in all, we had a blast. I didn't take too many pictures, in fact, I think I'm slipping these days. I am slacking in the photo arena.

Gifts: Even though I said no gifts...Erin got me a gift certificate to the scrapbook store down the street. xCrush brought me this hilarious lounge singer CD in which the singer has re-done songs like Sunday Bloody Sunday (U2) and Hot for Teacher (Van Halen)...yah you get it. Cousin Sherrie got me a kick ass cake display holder thingy.

Oh OH...speaking of gifts. Cousin Sherrie and I did our xmas exchange last night and she got me the craziest gifts. She got me this little pink "tampon carrier". How funny is that. Inside it has an elastic "safety" holder. It cracked me up. But Cousin Sherrie went one step further and got the most interesting gift for me...a wine chiller. I'm not kidding. You put water in it and put the bottle in, hit the timer, and in 7 minutes your wine is chilled. So, naturally, we had to test it last night. It's awesome. I might have to get me dad this little gadget.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go take an aspirin or two and shave my tongue.

What's Pink and Grey and Purple all over?

Why, me and my birthday celebration. The girls met me at The Purple Cafe last night. And oh boy was it yummy. I swore last night that I'd never eat again, but don't you know I'm already having a bagel, cream cheese mixed with green olives for breakfast (cream cheese and green olives is a Grandma Spaid passed down to mom thing that I adopted).

A few girlfriends weren't able to make it last night, but we had fun with the girls that were there. I had THE BEST Chicken Marsala and mashed potatoes last night. There was a "secret" ingredient in the mashed potatoes that Jamie and I swore was either molasses or brown sugar.

I had harry arm pits last night too. They were tasty. Okay, they were haricot verts - any idea what those are? Yah, me neither. But it was translated to me in french appropriately and I changed it to harry armpits. They were green beans and they were sooooooo good.

Dessert found the Purple Cafe delivering a creme brule to me, which isn't my fave, so I shared it with everyone else. THEN we ordered other desserts. Sherrie and I split this sinful Peanut Butter thingy that was, well, yummy.

Finally,the wine. I had a "flight" of wine, which is 4 two ounce glasses of different wines. Most of them were good. The last one smelled and tasted like ass. We didn't finish that one.

Tonight it is round two of the parties.

It's My Birthday! Gonna Party!

Happy Birthday to me!

Happy Birthday to me!

Happy Birthday to MEEEEEEeeeee!

Happy Birthday to me!

The first thing to greet me this morning was my trusted cat Pookie. I rolled over wondering to myself how is it I am 38. How did that happened? Why, just yesterday I was 25. Wasn't I? And the day before that I was just graduating from high school. My grandma told me that time will go faster as I get older and she was right. Darn her.

Okay, so back to Pookie...I was lying there thinking about my age, and I opened one eye. See if you make eye contact with the cat, you're dead meat. And I made eye contact. The first thing I hear is "Meow!" Which is cat for "Happy Birthday slave, I'm so glad you're awake. And since you're awake, why don't you get your lazy butt out of bed and FEED ME."

Then the phone rings, and its mom. Of course. And she sings to me, out of tune, but what do you expect? And then she asks me, "You know where you were 38 years ago?"

"Uhhuh," I reply, "I wasn't even out yet."

And so I'm off to Geeksoft (it only took 5 songs to get here this morning, that's ExCellent), my last day. I'm doing lunch with some girlfriends from here at Pomegranate (BTW, we're having Pomegranate Martini's for my second party tomorrow). Then one last stop at Geeksoft to hand in my badge ( I don't need no stinkin' badge). Then it's off to The Purple Cafe....I bought myself a tiara that says "Birthday Girl". I ain't afraid that I'm an attention whore.

And this from my friend Sarah in Lexington when she asked how old I was,
"Well, at least you aren't 48!"

And his heart grew three inches that day...

I think someone drugged me.

I'm sure of it.

I was minding my own business, driving to work this frigid morning, when suddenly, inexplicably a feeling so intense, so powerful, washed over me.

A feeling a pure joy and happiness. I found myself smiling for no reason. It was as if suddenly, nothing bothered me...until the jackass in front of me cut me off.

Anyhow, back to being happy. I'm not sure what or why it has happened, and frankly I don't think I care. But in a moment of clarity I discovered something. Or rather found something I had lost. The truth is, my happiness is dependant on no one but me. And I know this, and remind myself of this, but it rarely helps. Yet, today, in the 29 degree weather, I found it again.

I can't really remember the drive to work since I spent most of it thinking about the times in my life where I was most happy. What was it about those moments that defined it as happiness? Was it a man in my life? (doubtful) Was it money? (not likely) Nothing really stood out. Until it hit me. Like a brick being tossed from some other emotion to knock me into reality.

Its seems when I feel most proud of my accomplishments. I realized that each time I've felt enormously happy has been when I've done something I'm really proud of.

I'm about ready to embark on a new adventure with a new job. Ready to face this new challenge head on and prove to myself that I"m capable and worthy of this job.

I'm proud that our family - well most of them - donated $$ this year to a charity instead of buying gifts for each other.

I'm proud that I got a chance to tell both my parents that I love them.... and actually hugged them and told them.

And most of all, I'm proud to say that I am a successful individual. I may not have all the friends I want, and they may not treat me the way I expect them too, but they're friends none the less.

And finally, I'm proud that I didn't flip off said Jackass when he cut me off. Its truly a historic day.

And so let's review 2006
2006 Survey!

1.) Where did you ring in 2006?
In Hawaii in bed. No, not like that you pervert. I was sick. Mom, Dad and I rang in new years for Seattle time, then went to bed.

2.) What was your status by Valentine's Day?
You mean Anti-Valentine's Day. I did what I always do, Pookie was my valentine. I hate the day.

3.) Were you in school (anytime this year)?
Yep. Project Management classes. And more importantly, working with a local college on Project Management classes....earning cash doing it.

4.) How did you earn your keep?
Working for Geeksoft doing "stuff". Its top secret. I could tell ya, but then I'd have to kill ya...bahahahaha yah right. Anyone who knows me knows the last thing I've really been doing is working hard. But in a weeks time, I'll be working for UK Awesome company definitely earning my keep.

5.) Did you have to go to the hospital?
God no. I live for not seeing hospitals. Did my 5 day stint in 2002 and that was enough, thankyouverymuch.

6.) Did you encounter the police?
Define "encounter"? Considering my younger, yet annoying sibling is a cop...I did encounter her. I have yet to actually encounter a police person whilst in the Stang...thank god for small favors.

7.) Where did you go on vacation?
Let's see...I started the year in Hawaii, then New York in the summer, then ended the year in the frigid Tucson. 2007 should see me in at least Washington DC (the fake Washington)

8.) What did you purchase that was over $500?
Um, er, um...THE MUSTANG....and um, furniture for my apt...though theoretically I haven't "purchased" the furniture, as in past tense...I'm still purchasing the furniture. Oh, and I bought a computer. Oh, man...I need to cut down.

9.) Did you know anybody who got married?
Not this year. All my friends are married. Oh wait, I had a cousin get married...who's now expecting a baby! Yeah! Oh but that's a secret. Shhhhhh.

10.) Did you know anybody who passed away?
Sadly yes. My auntie M passed away this year. And my Uncle Gene passed away this year. We've had enough of losing of the relatives this year.

11.) Did you run into anybody you graduated high school with?
Not "graduated" but I did see an old school friend, Christy, this trip to Tucson. It was GREAT to see her. Oh wait, I did see someone else...Mike Greene from my TASIS days...though we didn't "run" into each other...it was a planned "running into".

12.) Did you move anywhere?
Yeppers. Moved to the hood. Lynnhood that is. Thankfully, I'm staying put for a bit too. So all you doubting Thomas' out there who think I'm moving again...hah, I'm not.

13.) What sporting events did you go to?
UW Volleyball match...and watched a ton of college football on the boob tube.

14.) What concerts did you go to?
Dudley Manlove baby. Der. Like read my entire blog and that's what you'll see. Oh I went to the Sh*tkickers too.

16.) If so, did you do your patriotic duty on Nov. 7?
Absolutely. Voted absentee so I voted uber early.

17.) Where do you live now?
The Hood, Washington (aka Lynnwood, WA)

18.) Describe your birthday.
It's 4 days after Christmas, so it really hasn't happened yet. Stay tuned. I may post the happenings...if I can remember.

19.) What's the one thing you thought you would never do but did in 2006?
Get a kick ass new job that I can't wait to start. Go to New York and harass my FNE (favorite nephew ever) AND buy a Mustang.

20.) What is one thing you regretted this year?
Just one? Not saving enough $$.

21.) What's something you learned about yourself?
I'm a solid person. I'm not the best person in the world, but I'm a good person. Oh, and I love to push peoples buttons....and not always in a good way.

23.) What was your best month?
I'd say August. My trip to New York was awesome, as well as purchasing the Stang.

24.) What from pop culture will you remember 2006 by?
Nothing stands out as necessary to use brain cells to remember.

25.) How would you rate this year with a scale from 1 (crappy) to 10 (excellent)?
9.999999999 It has its moments of crappy, but overall, I'd say it was excellent (insert homer simpson voice)

I put the "Da" in DOH!

So tonight I started my long awaiting laundry. The pile of clothes has outgrown the hamper in which they are put when dirty. I did my first load with little to no issues. Opened the dryer, tossed in the dryer sheet and they were off.

An hour later the buzzer goes off. I decide to turn over a new leaf and *not* let the clothes sit in the dryer until morning. I open the dryer and no clothes. None. I somehow, on autopilot apparently, tossed in the dryer sheet and neglected to toss in the clothes.

DOH!

I'm going to bed now. And have confirmed the clothes are tumbling themselves to done-ness...I'm sure the buzzer will go off and wake me from my deep sleep.

Let the games begin....

At long last, I am home. I made it. Though Alaska Airlines did all they could to try and stop me. Our plane landed, mercifully, early (there were about a dozen screaming kids on the plane...and you know how I love that). I made my way to baggage claim, stopping to pee as I don't dare go on the plane...that's just gross. Once at baggage claim, me and about a million other passengers waited for our bags. And waited. And waited. And waited. An HOUR later, the bags start to fall from the machine. And I waited. And I waited. And I waited. Why is my bag ALWAYS the last? It must be marked as "special" or something.

As much as I love going on vacation, and as much as I love Tucson, it's always nice to come home. Why is that?

The drive home was, well in a word, wet. Rain again, or rather still. I remind myself how beautiful spring is here and that's why we must have the down pours we have in the winter.

Pookie greeted me with a cold shoulder for all of a millisecond. Then I got the "why for" from him. And continued to get lip from him all night. Apparently, he doesn't like it when I'm gone. He glued himself to my side all night. If I got up to go do something, he followed - just to make sure I wasn't leaving again. This morning I had to bolt from the apartment just to keep him inside. Spoiled Cat.

Three more days on the job here at Geeksoft. I have a lot to do considering I've been procrastinating for several months now. So at least I'll be relatively busy these last days. Too bad I have work ethic - sorta - and feel I have to leave a job in good, organized, and document standing. And will leave no forwarding address or number.

This weekend will be filled to the brim with ye ol' celebration of that blessed day in which I was bestowed upon this world. Yes boys and girls, my day of birth approaches...rapidly too I must say. (Why when I was turning 11 it took forever for the birthday to arrive, and now it's here in a blink of an eye?) The agenda for the celebration is one that is full. Friday - which is the actual day of celebration - I'll be at Purple Cafe with my girls. All the women who have helped me make a difference in myself, and my life this year will be celebrating this day with me. These are the women in my life that remind me that life is an adventure, and that with their help, I should forge forward and live fully, developing my skills, my personality, and delving deep into the trenches of my mind to fight any demons that linger there. These are the girls I love and am so very glad they are in my life. (okay so realistically there are several other women who are that special in my life too, but they don't live in the Seattle area...so they must celebrate from afar.)

Then Saturday, the party must go on. I'm hosting my birthday party for everyone else (boys included). See, if I host it I can drink, then fall into bed. Only to wake up on the 31st to scold myself for drinking too much. Then turn around and drink again on NYE. Oy vei.

I'm tired now.

My future's so bright...I gotta wear shades.

Come with me, on a mystical journey through my mind. Don't be afraid. I promise nothing smutty....this time.

This morning I woke to a brightly lit something in the sky. I wasn't 100 percent sure what it was. I had heard stories told by the elders about a bright, warm sphere that apparently comes out once in a while. This morning, my Christmas gift was sunshine. And oh boy am I getting it.

I came in to write this blog, to "cool" off. Despite my complaints earlier of the frigid weather Arizona was having, finally, the sun is shining ... and it's hot.

Santa was good to me this year. Getting cookbooks, a fancy funky flamingo, flannel pjs, some gift cards, and oh yes... a FOOD PROCESSOR from dad.

Every year, Dad and I go out on Christmas eve to do shopping for mom. We generally have lunch, then shop. He buys me a gift too, that's just from him. No mom help in buying. This year I told him I wanted/needed a food processor. So off to Macy's we go. Though, being the smart parent that he is, he bought me a gift card to lug back to Washington instead of the actually processor. So on my way from the airport tomorrow I'll swing by Macy's and buy myself a food processor. I'm so excited.

Unfortunately Dad is a bit in the dog house today. Seeing that we/he waited until Christmas eve to shop, the store in which he was going to buy mom's gift was closed. DOH! So he feels guilty and mom says she doesn't mind, but I know she does. Dad will have to make up for it. I suggested diamond earrings, but he just grumbled at that.

Merry Christmas everyone.

BRRRR it's cold out there campers...

Yes, you'd think it would be warm. Yet here I sit in Tucson Arizona freezing my little butt off. Yesterday it rained. Today it, I don't think, got above 50 degrees. I came south for sun and warmth and am getting neither. Oh wait, that's not true, the sun did come out tonight, just in time to set. Grrr.

Tucson, as always is a blast. We eat. Shop. Eat. Shop. And eat some more. Yesterday mom and I went out shopping. I decided I needed some new clothes. We ate lunch at this little Italian cafe called Gavi's. Oh. My. God. I had the best Bolognese I've ever, and I mean EVER had. I, admittedly, am a bolognese snob, and wow...this stuff was out of this world. After I rolled myself out of the cafe, we shopped some more. We've been on search for a University of Arizona sweatshirt and have yet to find one. Mom looked everywhere before I got down here, and every where we've looked since I've been down here hasn't had them.

Today, Mom, Lano (old family friend from WAY back when) and I head to Mesa for a swapmeet. We froze our little tuccasses off. It was so cold I could see my breath. And yes, I brushed my teeth so it wasn't that kind of "see". We walked up and down just two rows before we had had enough. Too cold. We did, of course, do some damage financially in the two rows. I bought myself, or er ah rather, mom bought me some Russian Diamond earrings. These Russian diamonds are supposedly stronger and more sparkly (yes that's a word) than real diamonds...and much less expensive.

After shopping, mom "twisted" our arms to go to In N Out burgers. We don't have In N Out in Washington. And they are MOM's favorite. I remember my Uncle Johnny (Hi Uncle Johnny) bringing In N Out burgers home from work late at night to "share" with my sister and I and watch the three stooges. They were tasty.

Tonight was Rib night. Anyone who knows me and knows my dad, knows that he's the King of Ribs. We joke that its my dowry. Again...eating eating eating. I already weigh a ton and this isn't helping.

Tomorrow is Dad and my's "shopping" day. Its tradition. Every year we go shopping on Christmas eve for mom's gifts. He and I spend some much needed quality time together. We have lunch and shop. Usually he buys me a gift too that we pick out together. In year's past I've tried to make the gift something dad would find interesting and could get into. This year, I have no idea.

Tomorrow night is Frito Lollies. Another tradition. Its basically chili over fritos, and you stack it with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, onions etc. Ends up kinda like a taco salad. Can't wait.

So you see, all I've done since I've been here is shop and eat. Oh...I hear the dessert bell ringing...must go see. Night Night.

Will It Blend? - iPod

The hell....I can't even comment on this. But ...

What.
The.
Hell.

Toilets, Flamingo, and a few other rants

Now, normally, I try not to tell stories on people I know, but .... oh who am I kidding? I LOVE to tell stories on people I know.

Let me set the stage before I go into this story, and add a little caveat. First off, Cousin Sherrie (from here on known as only Cousin) grew up in a small, very small town in eastern Washington. Life out there was, well, different from life in a big city. When I think about Cousin and I and our experiences growing up, I'm kinda the Zsa Zsa from Green Acres, and she's the Green Acres. Anyhow, things operate differently on the farm and so there have been a couple of very funny stories that have come out of my conversations with Cousin related to technical things.

This is just one of those stories.

On our way home from Friday from Mike's holiday party AFTER the big wind storm that wiped out electricity for 1 million people, Cousin says to me, "I hope I can flush my toilet tonight."

Anywhoooo knows me, knows I have the look of "huh?" on my face. So I do what I know I shouldn't do and ask, "Why?"

Cousin: "Well, I don't have power."

Me: "Again, huh?"

At this point Cousin begins to explain how you must need electricity to flush the toilet since as a kid they couldn't flush when they lost power. They had to dump water down the toilet to get it to flush.

I, start to think about this in my head. Her argument seems so accurate that I find myself actually questioning it.

Me: "Wait. How do you figure? There's no on/off switch."

Cousin then launches, again, into explaining how they did it on the farm. Now keep in mind, Cousin has been living in the city for 15 years now.

So then it hits me. While my sides are splitting with laughter, I realize...they have a pump on the farm. And the pump needs electricity to pump the water. And somehow Cousin thought the same to be true here.

My head hurts.

Enough about Cousin...I love her dearly, but sometimes she just makes me laugh, at her not with her.

Flamingos....well, I collect them. I have no idea why, I just do. Pal Megan sent me this, and I just have to buy it. I've been wanting to "re-do" my bathroom, and what better way, than with Flamingos. Stop laughing.

Callous, not so nice Jenn is about to make an appearance. Ready yourselves.

What.
The.
Hell.

Are people drinking stupid potion these days? Now, my hearts go out to all the families who are dealing with tragedies related to our most recent STORM. But you'd think by the drama going on in the city that we were hit by a major earthquake, and all hope is lost. My god, people.

First off, several people have died, or hospitalized due to Carbon Monoxide poisoning. For doing things like, bringing their BBQ inside to keep warm. I suppose it sounds good at first, but dah....

Then we have the people who have been without power for 6 days now, and are starting to get restless. They are bitching like wild animals at the power companies for not doing enough. The power companies are saying, there was massive destruction to their infrastructure and now they basically have to rebuild. Which of course, gets the people all up in arms. Then the power company says that some may be without power until NEXT WEEK. So the people start whining about doing Christmas in the dark. Um, wasn't the first Christmas in the dark? Maybe they'll get lucky and a big star will shine in the night.

Anyhow, the panic that has taken over this area is truly amusing. People act as if we had no warning about this storm, when ironically, the weather people actually got it right and was telling everyone for THREE days before to baton down the hatches.
.
Whatever. I'm heading South where there's this rumor that a big bright glowy thing appears in the sky every day. I must go south to see with my own eyes.

Happy Holidays everyone. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy (or is it Merry) Kwanzaa...and whatever religion I forgot.

I'll try to blog from Tucson, but unlikely. Mom and I will be busy making Peanut Butter fudge - and I'm not sharing.

You wanna see my body?

Well, maybe not mine. But some one's. Cousin Sherrie and I went to see the Bodies Exhibit today. Man I tell ya, truly amazing. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect, and wasn't exactly sure my stomach would be able to manage it, but ... wow.

The interesting part to me, aside from all the physiology, we'll get to that, I didn't see these bodies as human. I mean I know they were human, but they didn't seem like real people. There was such controversy surrounding this exhibit and it being "bodies" of people who may or may not have approved their bodies for science, I had to go and see it. They seemed very waxy and not "real" but they were. It was all very surreal to me.

Each room had a theme to it, and displayed the part of the body for that theme. For example, the reproduction room was all about, well, the reproductive organs. And yes, I actually learned something in that room. No comments please about me learning about reproductive organs...The way they sliced and spliced the body was absolutely fascinating. I can't even explain it. I can say that if you have an opportunity to see this, I highly recommend it. And it's not a gross in any way...there isn't any blood. Because I assure you had blood been involved I would not have seen it.

And speaking of things I learned, that apparently I missed in biology class, must have been hung over that day - or er ah - asleep or something. Anyhow....I learned that the colon is really the large intestine. And I learned why woman are smarter than men. A man's brain weighs 2 lbs and a woman's weighs 2.5lbs. See, we're smarter. Let's see, what else did I learn? Woman have more taste buds and there are 2,000 to 5,000 taste buds.

In other news, the winds have blown through. I checked the map of the US on Friday to see if the state of Washington was blown off the map. Several folks still don't have power now, Cousin Sherrie still doesn't and she only lives up the street.

Batton down the hatches, Mary

Oh boy...Mother Nature is throwing us another one...two.

Right now we are experiencing sustained winds of 54 mph and gusts are hitting 70mph. The Straight of Juan de Fuca is supposed to get gusts up to 90 MPH tonight.

We've got thunder and lightening going on outside too. Our main highway, the 520 floating bridge closed for the night and is closing through tomorrow due to the wind gusts. In 1990, the I90 bridge sank during a wind storm. Since then they close our bridges when wind gusts reach a certain speed for 15 minutes or more. They were showing the bridge tongiht on the news, the waves are crashing onto the bridge deck. Scary I tell yah. Tomorrow's commute is going to S.U.C.K.

Between 4 and 5pm tonight we had over an inch of rain in an hour. Can I tell you? The Mustang doesn't have TURBO wipers. And the Mustang no likey standing water that's a foot or more deep. I swear I should have outfitted this car with water skis.

The company party was tonight. A success, of course. Nothing but kudos to me for finding the little gem of Cafe Pirouette. I just love this little cafe. Our white elephant exchange was also a success. I came home with one of my gifts. Yes, one of them. See, being a Project Manager, AND having done these type of parties before, someone always forgets. And in fact, due to the weather, one of our team members couldn't get home to get his gift. So I had an extra. And I ended up with it. Anyone want a tropical fish water bottle?

This too shall pass...

And thankfully it did. Only one day of visiting PittyPartyVille. Whew.

On to bigger and better adventures. Some of you may know, and if you don't you're about to, but I'm planning the Christmas - scratch that - Holiday party - oh F*** it - Christmas party for the new company this year. My new boss, who's code name has yet to be determined, was just getting around to planning it last Thursday. I coyly mentioned that I could do it since I have some time on my hands, and happen to be an expert at it. He took me up on it. He actually took me up on it. Its pure pro-bono work too, which is fine. I figured I'll start building the good karma with the new boss now and roll it over to next year.

His ideas for this party would be nothing short of a miracle if I was able to pull any of it off. See the party is the 14th. Yep, that's right, this Thursday. And he got me on board to help last Friday. He wanted it to have entertainment, other than a stripper he said. Whatever. He wanted to have a nice sit down dinner. And he wanted it to be on the east side. (For those not from this area, this means he doesn't want to drive into Seattle crossing a busy busy floating bridge).

Well. This would be challenging then. Because Seattle has all the fun spots.

Saturday I called several options. We have a cruise that goes around the lake checking out all the holiday decorations. That would work. They have a room available, but the dinner option was boxed lunches. Hmmmm...not exactly a holiday dinner.

Then I called the dinner train. The train has a mystery dinner train that happened to be on the night of our party. When I called to inquire about reservations, the receptionist, I swear, laughed at me. Great, now what.

Think.

Think.

AHHA....last April for Sherrie and Mike's birthday we all went to this little cafe called Cafe Pirouette. Its a small house in downtown Bellevue (on the east side). They had fantastic food,the best Chicken Saltimbocca ever, and specialized in crepes. Excellent. Ring. Ring. Oh wait, check their website. Dammit, they aren't open on Thursdays for dinner. Maybe they'll open for us. So I called them. The chef, who I immediately adore because she agrees to open for our small party and ONLY our party. Yeah. I get is all arranged.

I met with her on Monday to set the menu and the arrangements for the night. I just love how friendly and eager they are to hold our party. I'm sure she figures she's got nothing to lose and $$ to gain. I didn't tell her our budget, but knew we'd be able to tip her well.

Now, that's done. What else? Oh yes, entertainment. I threw out the idea of a White Elephant party. For some reason, everyone thought this was a great idea. Now, keep in mind, this "idea" came out yesterday. The party is Thursday. That means, rushing around to find a $5 gift. But I helped focus them by having the new boss come up with a theme. This year's white elephant theme: (drum roll please) "Summer's Almost Here." Huh? Summer stuff. What the.... How am I supposed to find anything summery? And for $5. So I'm heading off to the thrift store tonight. Maybe I'll find an Itsy Bitsy, Teeny, Weeny, Yellow Polka Dot Bikini. Eww.. I think I just grossed myself out.

The other "requirement" was Tim wanted name tags. Now, keep in mind there are 6 of us. SIX. How hard is it? But then you throw in any dates and you have 12, well 11 because I'm dateless as usual. So, being the creative type that I am, I made name tags last night. And I might say, they are kickin. I'll post copies once I get them scanned. But I really thought they turned out good.

AND....wait, there's much MUCH more...

I'm doing a trivia contest for door prizes. The prizes are TBD, but I thought a huge bottle of Aloe Vera, maybe a Beach Ball, and maybe a bottle of Two Buck Chuck wine.

The trivia Questions:
Name the reindeer's who's name's start with D.
On the 10th day of Christmas, what did my true love bring to me?

And this one's for you Bev

What street did a miracle take place on?

If you have any other GOOD trivia questions let me have 'em. These aren't written in stone yet, and depending on the amount of alcohol consumed, I might have to make them easier.

DANGER! Pitty Party Ahead! Turn back now!

It's really unlike me, but dammit I'm mad. I'm hurt. And I'm single. Normally, being single really doesn't bother me, not even at VD day. (Mostly because I host an Anti-Valentine's Day brunch usually). But this year, for some reason being single during the holidays is tough. Maybe its because I ran into an X? Maybe its because my "go to" date guy is dating someone? Maybe its because EVERYONE is dating someone? Maybe its because I've started talking to myself at home, and answering myself?

Whatever it is, it's hitting me hard. I'm planning our holiday party for the new company I'll be working for. We're a small group, and all of them will be bring a significant other...except me. WAHHHH!

This morning I heard what is now officially my theme song, for the next week or so. (Note: its not PMS either, so don't go there.)

I have climbed the highest mountain
I have sailed across the sea
I have wrestled with my demons
And woke up with only me
I have been around the block
Three times maybe four
And I think I deserve just a little more

In front of total strangers won't you kiss me
Flowers for no reason but you miss me
Oh I want to be in love
You're standing on the doorstep in the rain
Cause you couldn't wait to see me once again
Oh I want to be in love

I have made some big mistakes
And I've paid a heavy price
I found a little peace between will and sacrifice
I have watched as all my dreams
Went walking out the door
And I think I deserve just a little more

I'm looking for a heart of gold
I'm looking for a hand to hold
A happy end
Strong and kind
Somewhere to rest my troubled mind

*****************************************
By the way, this will pass. No need to call in reinforcements. Drug companies need not apply. This is only a temporary emotional detour.

Go! Speed Racer

The little pony I drive, aka the Mustang, hit several milestones yesterday. Some, I unwillingly admit with a sheepish grin, others, are just the facts.

First off, the Mustang, on the way home from a gathering with New Company Brits visiting from, you guessed it, the UK, hit an all time speed. 80 MPH. Why you ask? Well I had to out run the cops. Just kidding. Put your pants back on. In all seriousness, I didn't even realize I was going that fast. The road was dry and new ...just resurfaced and so it was smooth as a baby's butt, and fast apparently. I glanced down to set my cruise control when my eyes almost popped out of my head...I had no idea I was going that fast. Thank god for cruise control...

Secondly, we almost ran out of gas last night. Again, on my way home (oh and in case you're wondering, yes I had some win, but no there was no reason I shouldn't have been driving. New people in your life requires that you wait until the company Christmas party to get hammered and embarrass yourself.)... anyhow... the gas light came on. I was about 15 miles from my destination, so I was "sure" I'd make it. I read in my manual - yes I read the manual - that when the light goes on I have about 2 gallons left - roughly 17 miles give or take. And guess what, that calculation came to be a wee bit too close for my liking. I coasted into the gas station near my place in the hood (aka Lynnwood) and fed the beasty. 14.8 gallons is what it took. Um, just a few more hills, bumps, or curves and I'd be on the side of the road begging for gas.

Finally, we turned 5000K this morning. My mile count has leveled since the purchase of the car when I drove it 40 miles just because I could to go to some stupid store that had a location in my back yard...but why go 2 miles, when you can go 40 in a new car? Anyhoo....its time for the pony's first oil change. All together now..."Ahhhhh."

The Gift that keeps Giving

And I'm not talking about a hickey from Kinicky. (Um, hello Grease reference)

This year for Christmas our family has decided to give instead of get. It feels good to me, and right in so many ways. Its not that I don't enjoy getting, because I do. Who doesn't. But the way I figured it is, we'll all adults now and probably don't "need" anything. So why not give back. I sent a note out to the masses that is the Wraspir Clan and unilaterally they said, yes, let's do it.

This year's charity is one that is very near and dear to our hearts. My cousin Cindy passed away from cancer. She was one of those people who once you met her, you'd never EVER forget her. She had live by the balls and was pursuing all things Cindy. She did everything in her life with such passion and grace, that it seemed only natural that she would then become a professional Tango Dancer. I was only fortunate one time to see a video of her and I wish I had been able to witness her in action.

That all being said, our family has chosen to donate to her memorial fund. The Cynthia Wraspir Memorial Scholarship Endowment through the University of Idaho.

But wait, there's much much more.

Geeksoft (not my phrase, but that of one of my favorite bloggers.) has a giving tree. This tree was put up last week and COVERED in little red tags with gender, age and gift they'd like. This is nothing out of the ordinary I suppose. But what truly surprised me is the amount of gifts that have appeared under the tree. A bike is out there. Someone bought some child who wanted a barbie bike, an actually BARBIE Bike. I get all choked up just typing this. As I glanced at this tree, and marveled in the giving of the people here, an idea struck me. Why don't I give? And so I've chosen two tags from the tree. A boy and a girl.

The boy, age 6 wants a Batman Action Figure. And the girl, age 11, wants a Scrapbook kit. Do these fit me or what? Okay, well maybe the batman action figure doesn't completely. BUT I have seen all the Batman movies, AND I have the Daffy Duck Batman Action figure that McDonald's put out some 22 years ago. So there.

It feels good to hold these two tags in my hand and imagine what it must be like to not have anything. What angst it must be to wake up on Christmas morning and not have anything? That Santa somehow missed our house. I, like many of you, were one of the fortunate one's who always had something at Christmas. It may not have been the brightest, most fanciest new toy on the block, but there was always something. I guess I never really thought how fortunate, even in the tight years, I was. And so now I 'm giving back. Next year, I'd like to host a family for the holidays. Perhaps my new company will consider it. Perhaps I'll get my friends involved and we'll go and host a family. So many opportunities to give back during the holidays.

And here's my biggest issue: Why do we only really put our hearts into giving during the holidays? Why do food drives increase only during the holidays? Aren't these people needy year round? And so because it bugs me, instead of complain about it, I'm going to go see what I can do about it for the entire year. It might be a year of growth for me. One in which my karma bank gets fuller and fuller with good deeds. Wanna join me?

Her Name was Rio....

Well, her name isn't Rio, but she was certainly a Duran Duran fan. For some reason I put the Duran Duran CD "Decade" into my car rotation. Listening to Duran Duran music for an hour this morning, got me thinking about one of my favorite GalPal Laura.

Laura and I were best buds in 10th grade. Almost inseparable in many cases. And some of the memories we made together will stay with me forever. She'll kill me for posting these stories, and for posting these pictures. Sorry Laura - not really.

Laura and I met on our way to USA Camp for color guard. She and I hit it off instantly and had a certain "wit" about us. We got each other. Scary as that was. She was a HUGE Duran Duran fan, as was I - though my like/love for them grew as our friendship grew. I, though, never had the Nick Rhodes hair... tee hee. At one point, we had secret Duran Duran names for ourselves. But I'll never spill what they were...too embarrassing for us both, right Nicky. Love Simey.

Anyhow, at USA camp was where my first favorite Laura story takes place. We were on the 9th floor of a dorm at UC Santa Barbara, which was where the camp was. Laura and I decided to take the elevator down to the "fat room". Once we were loaded up with junk food, we figured why not work it off first by taking the stairs up. We made it to, I think, the 4th floor, then went to find the elevator. Many years later we laughed at the thought of perhaps taking the stairs down and the elevator up...but we weren't the sharpest tools in the shed then. I got Super Sensational that year for rifles at USA Camp. Laura was there to cheer me on. In fact, in the middle of my routine, I could hear her screaming for me. It's amazing I didn't goof up.

I was the proud owner of a 1971 Ford Country Squire station wagon, with wood paneling. Yes, I was the cool kid driving the horrid car. It got 8 miles a gallon, really. BUT, it got me to where I wanted to go. Laura and I decided to drive the beast up to the "Manson house". I said no because my mom wouldn't hear of it (note: insert innocent tone in my voice). But Laura twisted my arm and "forced" me to drive up there. We stopped and got some type of ice cream treat and started on our quest. In Quartz Hill, where we lived, one of the houses the Charles Manson supposedly hid out in was up this hill. It was a "scare" factor for most the local kids, so we had to go. On our way up there, somehow, someway and to this day I'm not 100% sure how, I hit a garbage can. I swear it was Laura's fault. Honest. = ) Thankfully they were plastic cans, but still. My car could have been hurt.

I was massively jealous of Laura. She had the great hair, the fun clothes, and she had the eye of Michael Pomerleau - who everyone knows was my first true love and consequently my first real heartbreak. Laura, bless her heart, though helped me get a small kiss from Mr. Pomerleau. On my last day of school, I passed Laura and innocent and enormously top secret note indicating that the only thing that I really wished for was a kiss from Mike. Well, Miss Laura, SHOWED HIM THE NOTE! While I did get that kiss, I was mortified by what she did. Thankful, but mortified.

Laura's mom was a nut case too. Her mom loved to torment her, but in a fun loving way. California had these drive through dairies in our area. They were basically a 7-11 that you can drive through. Anyhow, Laura had the hots for this guy who worked at one of them. Her mom, DROVE through with us and proceeded to tell Mr. Hotty that her daughter Laura had a crush on him. We both died. She died of embarrassment. I died laughing my ass off.

I could go on and on about our friendship. The years have passed, and we've both gone and done our own thing. I moved to Washington, and later off to Switzerland, and then back. Through all that we stayed friends. Writing letters, phone calls, etc. To this day we chat. 22 years later, we're still friends.

She's one of those friends to me, and I know you all have one like this, where months could go by without us talking, ,but when we do its as if we've never been gone. She's one of my favorite people and I'm so very glad that I went to USA camp that year.

Perchance come day she and I will live by each other again.
(PS - Perchance was her mom's favorite phrase)

Laura - Thanks for the memories. Apparently you were a bad influence to me. = )

Did you see it?

Jenn has a new blog.

http://cookingwithjennw.blogspot.com/

I'll see your James and raise you a Bond

I am, for the most part, a James Bond snob. I admit it. I can't help it. The most, bestest, James Bond by far was Sean Connery. Followed very closely by Pierce Brosnon and then Roger Moore. But never ever, EVER should Timothy Dalton and the words James Bond be mentioned in the same sentence. Never. Ever.

Cousin and I went to go see Casino Royal yesterday. Against my better judgement, we ventured out into the holiday crowds to see this movie. And, I must say, despite the throngs of people out there, it was soooo worth it.

My expectations of this film were low. I had heard a few non so happy things about this film. For example, there aren't as many gadgets that he's so known for. And he's not nearly as charming. Both I'd agree. There were less gadgets, no car chase to be mentioned really, and he certainly aren't as charming as he is known to be.

So what about this new Bond? I wasn't sure when I had seen the trailers. He just didn't seem to fit the glory that is James Bond. But now! Now that I've seen him in action, well, let's just say I drooled in my popcorn. He's HOT! I mean H. O. T. I whole-heatedly approve of this new James. He has the body, the eyes, the James Bond wit, and well, he's H.O.T. Did I mention that?

The thing about this movie that was a bit out of whack was the timing. Considering this is supposed to be the "first" novel, it's hard to get past the fact they have cell phones and it's post 9/11. Well not that hard, but it was Cousin who brought that up. Oh well, it had excellent eye candy.

Oh and for the guys out there....the bond girls in this one are H.O.T. too. I used to look like that before I cut my hair. I swear.

The Three words that best describe you are as follows, and I quote, "Stink! Stank! Stunk!

They neither stinked. Nor stanked. Nor stunked. Yes, that's right kids, the Dudley Holiday show was last night. A BIG shout out to GalPal Shannon for bearing with me through another dudley show. (she's not a fan). She did keep calling the lead singer by me former crushes name. (She's the only one who made a connection that former crush kinda sorta looks like the lead singer of Dudley. Coincidence?)

Anyhow, the boys did not disappoint. They played all my favorite regulars, a few new ones, and of course all my favorite holiday songs.

One of my favorite movies, and therefore holiday song, is The Grinch (the Jim Cary version of the movie). I just love that song. Is that wrong to have the Grinch as your "favorite" holiday song? Does that say something about how I enjoy the holidays? Anyhow, I digress.

Last night I discovered I have VIDEO on my camera. Look out world. So here's my attempt at recording the guys. Now you all get to enjoy them. Yeah you. Mr. Jensen (aka the man of my dreams and the lead singer of Dudley) might have had a few drinks last night as he didn't exactly sing the song correctly. He mixed and matched the versus, which is what I enjoy, shows he's not perfect afterall.



You’re a mean one Mr Grinch
You’e a nasty wasty skunk
Your sould is full of unwashed socks
Your soul is full of gunk
The three words that best describe you are as follows, and I quote, “Stink! Stank! Stunk!”

Oh no, you didn't think that was all I was going to give you now that I have video.

Second favorite Dudley song that they rarely sing.


And finally, GalPal Shannon helped me realize a goal this year. I set forth to go to every Dudley show this year. Not a stretch you say? Hah. Try finding someone to go with me to each show. THAT's the real goal. But as of last night I went to all their shows this year. Yeah me! I wonder what the boys would say if they knew they had such a fan as me.

There is one more show this year, the New Year's Eve show. I'll be sure to video more there, since now I can.

The opening band last night was yet another band that Mr. Dudley was in, Batum Schrag (pronounced BATE - Em Shrag). (http://batumschrag.com/main.html) Sorry about the lack of linkedl link. Blogger Beta is being, um - particular again. They were good. I liked their sound a lot. Maybe I'll go see them this year.

And I'll leave you with this last video.

Quote of the day:
"I feel like a schizophrenic when I listen to your iPod."


I know I can't possibly be the only person to have serveral different "types" of music on her iPod. Now, granted my range from Christian Rock, to Josh Grobin and back to some serious hard rock types of songs. I even have country and a little Disney on it. It's a sickness isn't it? I should consult my doctor for medication.