Cap'n Jack and one single solitary gator

Greetings from the Tiki Bar. With a Stella in hand, I invite you to another fun filled and exciting blog of Jenn in Orlando.

SLSIL and I decided at the late hour of 5:30pm last night as we ate a pizza from Uno's pizzeria that we should go on an airboat ride today and see a real live gator. I immediately jumped at the chance. SLSIL isn't a huge fan of gators, in fact she hates them, so I figured we'd never have a chance. She had a glass of wine in her so she was having a weak moment. I jumped at the chance and called Big Toho Airboat rides and made a reservation. Then I called them back to see how much they were. Reasonable and we were "gARANteed an aLLeeGator" sighting. (You need to read that with a thick Louisiana accent to get the full experience of "Jerry" who answered the phone and took our reservations.).

The deal was done. We had our appt to got gator watching. I only hoped they weren't watching us and licking their lips as they were checking out which one of us would make the best meal.

We were up at the crack of dawn today, right...the crack of dawn...that's funny. We were up at 8am, which for the loud obnoxious people who came home late last night and woke us up, it was early (and the little devil in me was tempted to slam our door and make as much noise as possible - but I chose to be nice, for a change.) We made our stop at Bucky's and we were off. Being the navi"gator" I had my directions in hand and we headed south to Lake Toho-something-or-other. We had just a small glitch in finding the place, but we prevailed and had time to wonder around the dock area for 30 minutes as I melted in the freakin heat. Turn the oven off already. Sheesh.

Then like a byplane landing came our airboat. 600HP of pure goodness. As Cap'n Jack put it, "This sucker is Baaad!" We hopped onboard, did our very little safety speech and we were off. Oh. My. God. This airboat kicked some serious ass. That's me, by the way, with Cap'n Jack in the middle of the swamp where he totally could have robbed us or fed us to the gators that weren't out.

What a beautiful area - in a very different way. I mean, being from the pine tree capital of the world, it was bizarre to see green stuff growing on top of the water. Wild birds everywhere. Oh and before I forget, I need to make a correction to my blog yesterday when I said it was a crane eating the lizards, I was mistaking. It's an Egret.

We only saw one alligator, and you can't even tell it's an alligator from my photo, but if you look real close to the big brown blob to the left of the photo, that's an alligator, who, upon snapping this shot, disappeared into the green murky water.

Cap'n Jack took us all over looking for gators, but it was way too warm for them to be toward the top of the water. Being odd cold blooded little creatures and all, they prefer cool areas.

The reality was, even though we didn't see as many gators as I would have preferred, the boat ride was an absolute blast.

Tomorrow vacation comes to an end and I have to think about actually logging onto the computer to *gasp* read work email. Ugh. I can honestly say, for the first time in my life, I didn't bother checking email once. Well, okay I checked it, but didn't really do any work.

Celebration and such

So after I posted last night I had a run in with a crane. Well, actually I didn't run into it, but it was within touching distance to me. As I followed the crane with my camera it ate 4 lizards. And by ate I mean swallowed whole. As it swallowed the little devil I could see it wiggle down the cranes throat...totally grossed me out, but it was fascinating all the same. If you look closely you can see one lizard in it's mouth.

After witnessing that, and after two beers at happy hour, SLSIL and I walked across the street to Fish Bone and had a spectacular dinner. I had a steak that was like butter...so tender and delicish.

This morning I actually slept in. No kidding. I got up at about 9am. I never sleep that late. So SLSIL and I got up, headed to Bucky's and then off to Celebration. It's this cute little Stepfordish town. It really feels like a movie set, but some very cute shops. We met up with some old family friends from way back when. The Rahbar's and my family go back almost 30 years. Seems impossible to think when I first met them their youngest were barely two and now they're in their 30's with children. Which seems impossible because I've not aged. Huh! Anyhow, we were treated to a fantastic lunch at a little Italian restaurant. In fact, I have some on my shirt right now...thought I'd savor the moment and bring some home with me.

You can't see it but behind us is a sign warning people to not aggravate the alligators. Really? You think?

After departing Celebration - well after stopping at the Bucky's again for an ice tea - SLSIL and I headed off to Downtown Disney. Disney is all over down here and I'm convinced Orlando would barely be a blip on any map if Disney wasn't here. Anyhow, we just wanted to wonder through downtown Disney. Full of shops with just about anything Disney you want. Walking through we found a Ghiradelli chocolate shop. We just had to go in. I bought some chocolate peanut butter bars that were ZOMG so good - they gave us a sample and I just couldn't pass it down. I bought an extra to bring back with me to work and I might share with PMDude...maybe. But then SLSIL says to me, "Have you ever had a chocolate soda?" Er - a who and what now? Soshe twisted my arm and said we had to have one. Who was I to say no? Apparently they date back to the good old days and fountain drinks. So I couldn't possibly pass up an opportunity to have a chocolate soda. And when they asked if I wanted chocolate or vanilla ice cream in it I knew I was in for a treat. A treat indeed. It was delicious! I decided I should bring some home on my shirt for later too.

I'm a Space Princess

When I left work on Tuesday afternoon, heading to vacation, it reminded me of the last days of school before the summer. The air seemed stale and full of promise of the months to come. I was so ready to be on vacation. I promised myself to not check email – though secretly I might just peek. I hopped in the Stang, blasted the music – as much as these old ears could handle, and off I went. I got about 15 miles away – almost home – and I realized I left my wallet at work. Typical. Turn around and head back.

I had done most my packing the day before so I really didn’t have anything to do except clean the apartment slightly since the parental units would be staying there over the weekend. If Pookie wasn’t going to be traumatized enough by me being gone, he was going to have two standard poodles as housemates for the weekend.

Up at the butt crack of before dawn and off to the airport. The airport was absolutely packed. I couldn’t believe how many people were there. I knew it might be busy, but not packed. I had no worries though had plenty of time to get through security (and for the record, why are people so stupid? I mean really. You’re standing in line. The recording is looping telling you to take you freakin shoes off – but noooo there’s always a couple of people who seemed surprised that they have to take their shoes off. ) Through security and off to Bucky’s for coffee.

The flight to Houston was uneventful. I slept. Steppin Out 2 was the movie and I figured I could miss that. But the flight from Houston to Orlando was quite eventful. I got to sit in first class. This young Indian family wanted to sit together so the husband asked if I wanted his seat instead. I was feeling oddly generous so I said sure. Then he said it was in first class…Um HELL Yah I’ll switch with ya. I got water in a GLASS with ice, a free bloody mary, warm towelette, and a wide seat for my derriere. Too bad it was the short leg of the trip, but I’m not complaining.

I got down to baggage claim and for all of you who made fun of my pink with white polka dots suitcase, let me just say, I recognized it from three carousels down! Waiting for SLSIL and then we’re off. Orlando will never be the same.

That was yesterday. Today is , well today. Thursday. It's sunny and 91 outside as I sit poolside and write this blog. Beer in hand (well not in hand because I can't type then - but not far from the hand...ooo hold please...gotta take a sip)

Anyhow, SLSIL and I got up this morning, not too early I might add, and headed east to the Kennedy Space Center. Oh. My. God is that the coolest place on earth. We took the Nasa Up Close tour, which took us all over. We got to see both shuttle - or sorry they call them orbiters - launching pads, the big ass building they put the rockets and shuttles together in, and of course, critters. Not that Nasa is special for critters, but the space center sits on a wildlife refuge. Very cool. On our way out we saw two gators - much to SLSIL's concern. She's not a fan of the gators. Then we saw a turtle, two or three eagles, and a couple of mating ugly ass bugs. Bug P*rn oh goody. And before you ask, yes I did add to my pink collection by purchasing the pink Space Princess Travel mug. I've been thinking about buying a travel mug anyhow to do my part with saving the environment - I just needed to find the right one...and so I have.

The tour through the center was especially cool because there's a shuttle launch for this Saturday. Sadly no tickets in my price range are available and as far as I can tell I'm not a VIP. Bummer. We couldn't see the actual shuttle on the pad because it's being prepped, but you can see the big ass gas tank.

This is the big ass building (BAB) below [BTW NASA is FULL of acronyms. I thought Geeksoft was bad. I now know where they learned it from]. Just to put it in perspective, each star on the flag is 6 feet wide. And I'm not sure it'll come out in the blog, but in the middle section near the NASA logo you can see a straight line - if you look real close you might be able to see two fools up there painting.

Tomorrow we're "shopping" and having lunch with some old family friends of ours. I can't wait to see them, it's been years. Well, the Tiki Bar is calling me back to drink more beer, so I'm going to sign out for now.

One and one is sometimes eleven

It seems a lifetime since I last wrote. I was most certainly in a funk and writing helped me get out of it. Wednesday and Thursday I worked a total of 30 hours, by Friday I was indeed fried. But I have lived to tell the tale. I did finally get some positive feedback, though not from who I expected, but none the less it felt good to know I wasn't in it alone. And thanks to everyone who passed on their words of encouragement, it helped.

I got home Friday around 2:30 and was so tired I wasn't sure how I was to possibly walk 15 miles. This weekend was our "test" in that we wanted to do 15 miles back to back. After looking at google pedometer we found it was more likely 12 for Friday. Perfect. Bigbro walked from his work and so by the time he met us he'd already gone 10 miles. It was sunny with the threat of overcast and maybe rain. But off we went. I took my 5 hour energy in my water - so as to not get all weird like I did the first time I took it. So despite the fact I wanted to do nothing but nap, I strapped on my shoes and I was off.

About 10 minutes into it the rain started. It wasn't a down pour, but a constant rain. It was miserable. We debated on calling BigBro's wifeepoo to pick us up, but by the time we thought that we figured we only had about 4 miles left. I was feeling surprisingly well considering the week I had. And then...

About 2 miles out I hit the wall. That invisible "i can't go any further" wall. BigBro gave us two options at that point. We could either take this ENORMOUS hill or walk 14 more blocks on flat land. Clearly I was delusional because I suggested the hill. At some point BigBro said (though as I understand it now he said it BEFORE we took off I just either ignored it or missed it) that the hill was about 12 blocks long. erm, what? Ugh. The first part of this hill was straight up. Shut up I know hills are generally straight up, but I mean STRAIGHT up...it felt like climbing a ladder. (Drama queen alert) - I thought I was going to die. But alas, I got to the top and that good old feeling of accomplishment greeted me. It was all down hill from there. My right foot was hurting like crazy. The start of that blasted ball of my foot blister. I had a bad feeling about being able to get up and walk again on Saturday.

So Saturday morning I tried to "fix" it by putting puffy moleskin on both balls. I mean both balls of my feet you pervert. But even then I wasn't sure. It hurt. And we all know my threshold of pain is like - well it doesn't exist. I'll admit it. I'm a baby.

Got to BigBro's house, we decided on a route and we were off. Coffee in hand, 5 hour energy in my water and I was ready. The foot was hurting. About 2 miles we came across a Joe's sporting good store, so we decided we should go in and get some medical tape and maybe something to help cushion my foot. And wouldn't you know it, they had PINK prewrap and pink medical tape. Well, I couldn't not get pink. So now I have some very cool pink tape to go with all the other pink items I've collected in the past year.

BigBro got out his second skin, gause and bandaids. We cushioned up the right foot and wrapped it in perty pink tape and we were off. It felt good really. The weird thing is if you stop, the first 5 steps when you start again hurt like hell. But then it's like it goes numb or something, but its fine. So we walked on.

At a certain point we hit a park in Seattle. We were going to walk to the water and come back up, about another mile on our trek. I decided to stay at the top and rest the foot and stretch a bit. BigBro and Blueberry were off. By the time they got back, I was glad I didn't bother. They were both panting as the hike back up was quite the hike. Finally, I made a good solid decision that I was sure would save my foot.

We turned to head home. The sun was high in the sky by this point and it was warm, but a nice warm. Around 70 which in my opinion is perfect to walk in. A heck of a lot better than Friday night's rain walk. At this point though my left foot was starting to be vocal about all the attention the right foot was getting. I decided to ignore it and just keep on. Maybe not the best decision, but I just wanted to get home.

As we headed up this hill, there on the horizon we saw it. 7-11....ahhhh, our hot dog break. Thank god. Now generally speaking our hot dog breaks are quick. I mean after all we are stopping at a convenience store who's entire purpose is for people to get in and out pretty quick. This 7-11 apparently didn't get that memo. My. god. It took us 20 minutes I swear to get our dogs, and get out of there. The clerk was no where to be found when we got in. Several other "characters" were in the store with us. We weren't exactly in a great part of town and we got to experience all the "winners" from that area. Drunk man 1 decided to just walk out with his beer since the clerk was no where around. As he left two meth girls walked in on a "munchy" break. Still no clerk. I was peaking into the back rooms and finally she came out of the bathroom. It was pretty clear pretty quick that she wasn't playing with a full deck and she confirmed it when she was trying to ring Blue up for her hot dog. Bigbro and I gave up waiting for the clerk so we went and decorated our dogs and just stood in the back eating them. We were almost done before Blue got back and we just stood and watched the scene of crazy that was in the store. Then BigBro and I had to check out - my god. The clerk couldn't figure out how to ring bro's dogs up since they were a two-fer. He got a deal on it too...I made mine relatively simple for her, but still. So off we went.

In the end I did 11 Friday night and 11 on Saturday. Bigbro and Blue did a bit more since they walked to the park and back. It was a good test, and I really need to figure out what to do about my feet. It sucks really because the legs don't hurt, and aren't sore...so if I can figure out the feet I'd be good to go.

I'm finally sitting and resting. I was in bed by 9pm last night and was out with no effort. I had to get my energy back since today was going to be a full one too. But in a good way. Picking up TheNiece for a pedicure and lunch. I won't be getting an "official" pedicure, but a soak and a massage...which is fine by me.

And as if my life isn't already busy, but I leave for Orlando on Wednesday for a much needed vacation. SLSIL will be meeting me - Yay - and we'll be getting into some trouble. Then I have to be at a tradeshow for 5 days. All in all it will put me behind at work, but I'll be where its warm and not in Seattle.

Just How Bad Can it get?

I'm not sure yet, but I'll let you know.

I'm feeling, of late, like a beaten down, stomped on, abused little kitten. "They" say - whomever "they" are - that when you're down you only have up to go. I'm not 100% sure about that, but am trying to hold out hope.

It seems that life is a constant ebb and flow of good times and bad times. Any time now I can see the good times. Really, any time now...a.n.y.t.i.m.e! I'm still waiting.

I'm in a situation where even when I think I'm doing my best and trying to do my best, that inevitably a negative is found in my performance. I feel like no matter what I do, nothing I do will ever be good enough or meet the extraordinary expectations that appear to be just set high enough for me to not reach. I can't help but wonder, what it would feel like to get a "good job" once in a while? What does that "approval" feel like?

I am, generally, the first to admit when I need to grow. When feedback is given to me, I generally take it seriously and make strides to "fix" whatever it is that appears to be broken. It's one of the most redeeming qualities that I happen to like about myself. But being forced to change the way you do things, and knowing that you're under a microscope while you make those changes, just lends to making mistakes. The constant walking on egg shells and constantly having to prove myself is not something I do well. And what may have ordinarily been a "mistake" is taken out of context and blown up to appear that you are incompetent. I'm not I swear! I used to think that I was good at what I did and now am questioning it. I hate that. I hate that. I mean, let me learn. Let me grow and let me make mistakes and look at them in context to what I've done well.

And what about my successes? Do they mean nothing? Do they get swept under a carpet and not mentioned?

I will be the first to admit I am far from perfect. But now I'm wondering if I'm ever going to be close to acceptable.

I probably shouldn't post this, but it's after 9pm and I'm just leaving work and frankly I just don't care right now.

And don't worry about me. I'll come out the other end and be fine. By the time most of you read this I will have gotten some sleep, have had a 5 freakin A.M. con call, and moved on hopefully. I'm just feeling beaten to a pulp right now and find the only way to feel better is to write about it. Though if anyone has any advice on how to "impress" and "convince" others of my greatness, please email me - or post to the blog.

To lift my spirits though, I peaked to see who won American Idol. I've been accused lately of being a closet idol watcher. I'm not, I swear, but it just so happens that a Mr. Hotty McSexyson is a contestant...and boy can he ever sing. And thankfully to some very serious voting that went on over there yonder in a small gardenish state, Mr. McSexyson won. Thanks Jersey!

Pet Peevesapalooza

I have several pet peeves. I don't mean to, but people in today's world just make it so easy to have them. And really they're not so much as "peeves" as "people really piss me off."

I'm in training for two days. Thrilling, overly exhilarating Financial Fundamentals for non financial minded managers...or something like that. It's learning how to speak accountant and finance. See, our CEO is an accountant and I need to learn how to speak his language. He and I are definitely same planet / different worlds sorta thing.

It's been my experience that many of the "professional" training courses I've participated in are full of people who have little, to no understanding of consideration towards the other participants. For example, pet peeve # 14758.

Tardiness. I get so annoyed when people come into a class late. First and foremost, you know what time the class starts. You get it in your registration brochure AND the registration confirmation AND the ticket stub thingy you have to bring with you to paid. Yet, people still show up late. What is that all about? I'm perpetually early. It's both a curse and a blessing. I just think that if someone is waiting on me, I should respect them enough to be on time. And furthermore, when you're excused for a break, and the instructor says "let's be back by a quarter after." She doesn't mean half past! I'm just sayin'. These people are harshing my mellow.

Pet Peeve #78946

Separate conversations while the instructor is instructing. I can understanding asking, "what'd she say?" Or "what page?" But full on conversations? Come on! You - over there in the cute pink skirt! Shut the heck up! You're voice carries and no one cares about your tooth pain. I'm just sayin'.

Pet Peeve #89765 (Yes that means I have over eighty-nine thousand pet peeves. Not really. I'm really quite nice, at times. I just have a low tolerance for people who don't respect others around them). ahem.

Right, so back to my pet peeve. Asking questions just for the sake of hearing your own voice. Um yah, like that question about personal expenses has any relevance on our current topic of depreciation.

So how exactly do so many people become so inconsiderate? I just gotta know.

Oh, and when the instructor says, "Please turn off your cell phones and pagers." she's talking to you stinky boy in row 3.

ahhh, now that that's off my chest.

I had a weird random thing happen this morning. Actually wasn't so much that it "happened", but that I noticed it. There was an alarmingly large amount of white cars on the road today. As I drove in to the Emerald City I noticed that every car around me and in my line of sight was white. What does that mean I wonder? An omen? Or more likely I was in some vortex or something that caused the color in all vehicles to disappear so my baby could appear to be so beautiful and Wow'ing.

Right. Moving on...

I got to downtown early this morning because I had to take a presales call before the class. I parked several blocks away to 1) save on parking and 2) get in some exercise. As I walked out of the very conveniently located Starbucks right by where I parked that smell hit me. The smell I think every big city has in the early morning. That smell of energy building. It's fresh, but yet you can feel it. Oh man, I love that time of morning in the big city (well, Seattle).

I was shocked at how fast today went. I was sure sitting through AccountANT speak was going to just about kill me. My process orientated mind loved how exact accounting is. I mean really, it's the answer to just about any question you might have about a company. But the mathy side just baffles me sometimes. But alas, the light bulb went on. Did you see it? A bright light coming from the North? That was me getting it! Finally! That double entry thing - makes perfect sense. It's really yin/yang. Every action has a reaction.

And with that, I'm gonna become a CPA. Okay, not really. But I almost had ya didn't I? Stop laughing, I could be a CPA. I might, after all, need a career change here very soon.

And finally, the Photo Safari of the weekend. I've really saved the best rambling for last. Sunday was a beautiful day. PhotoGods met up and walked through the botanical gardens snapping contest winning photos right and left. I had one personal favorite.

quad, two-pump vanilla, one and one-quarter pump sugar free hazel nut, latte with 1/2 soy, 1/2 nonfat, extra hot, with three ice cubes

Right! I'm not making that up by the way. My drink? Grande Vanilla American with Xtra room. Simple, to the point, and I don't have to take a breath while ordering. The drink in the title? Ordered at a local Starbucks by a crazy, one and one quarter full deck player customer. I had to ask the barista to write it down for me because there was no way I'd remember all those adjectives.

I've been reading a book about Starbucks of late called The Starbucks Experience. The book is written as a "business" book to explain why Starbucks, as a company, is so successful. The book states that Starbuck's success is primarily on the way the treat their "partners" (employees). The executives live the vision, and the partners see that and live the vision too. What a concept! Say what you will about Starbucks, but their business practices with their partners is quite revolutionary. Made me go out to their website to see if they have any project management openings. What? The partners get ONE FREE pound of coffee a week!

Here are some interesting facts about the company. You can likely find a Starbucks within 5 miles of your home (that's assuming you are living in an city/town - the small town livers need not apply). If you had invested $10,000 in Starbucks in 1992, your investment would be worth approximately $650,000 today! Starbucks stock rose 5,000%! AND, today Starbucks opens five new stores a day! I know most of you are like, 'Dah', but really think about that. 5 stores a day! Think about the impact that has on the company, the communities, the world, and more importantly me. I mean, that means no matter where I travel, I can find a Starbucks.

In Seattle, there seems to be a almost dislike for Starbucks by some. It's a huge company who has taken over the streets of Seattle. We have several small coffee shops that offer some great coffee and a great atmosphere. I don't think there's anything wrong with those shops either. In fact, I find myself on a regular basis sitting at one, but it offers me a different experience. When I go to one of those coffee shops I'm never really sure what my coffee is going to be like. Starbucks, to me, is consistent. I can almost guarantee that if I go into any store and order my Grande Vanilla Americano with Xtra room, I'll get the same thing I got yesterday at a different store.

"My" Starbucks, not only knows my drink when I step to the counter, they know I have a registered Starbucks card, they know I am walking in the 3-day and ask how it's going, they know that on Fridays I may be tempted to buy a Top Pot donut, and they know that there's at least a 50% chance I'll be back in the afternoon. And almost on a regular basis, I get an extra shot in the morning (which is 4 shots in my Americano - which PMDude LOVES when that happens because that makes me - well more fun.)

Yesterday was a beautiful day here. A day in which I almost died. Okay, maybe not, but it sure felt that way. I taught myself a very valuable lesson yesterday. It's one of those things you "know" but for some reason you don't appreciate until you're in a learning situation and you are forced to get it. Yah, that was me yesterday.

BigBro, Blue and I took off for a 16 mile walk yesterday at 6:30AM. As we left the apartment it was already almost 60 degrees. It was going to be a hot one. In about 7 miles I hadn't even drank 24 oz of water. In heat. I felt like crap. I couldn't even fathom walking another step. Thankfully, on the horizon was a Starbucks (Yay). I sat and drank a 20 oz water, bought another bottle (I dropped my bottle of water in the toilet - don't ask), filled it with zip fiz, changed the socks and rested for about 20 minutes. I felt better. But as we walked on, again, I barely drank. It was so hot, small breeze only every now and then, that I should have been chugging water. I was clearly dehydrated. At a certain point, I bid farewell to BigBro and Blue - I zigged to the right and they went on to finish the walk. I managed to find my way home. Stopping twice to rest in less than a half mile from my apartment. I was dying. I was panting when walking on flat ground. I had no water with me since I had chugged the rest of my 24 oz bottle I had filled up at Starbucks 6 miles back. I was proving a point to myself and I gotta tell ya, there must be a better way.

I got home, somehow, chugged two more 20oz of water sat on the floor and panted and slowly cooled down. Between the sun and lack of water, I was sure that I would die right there and ten on my cat fur covered carpet. Lesson Learned: MUST. DRINK. WATER. I quite frankly felt like a loser to some extent because my own stupidity got in the way of me training, but I've learned and will do what I need to in order for this to NOT happen again. Blue and BigBro ended up going 17 total and I ended with 15 total (give or take).

Today it's another beautiful day, cooler, but beautiful. Today is another Photo Safari with the PhotoGods. We're heading to the Bellevue Botanical Gardens for flower shots...Yay! My favorite! Oh, but have to stop at Starbucks on my way though, so I'd better get going.

Roll the windows down, turn the radio up, let the wind blow through my hair

It's summer here in the great northwest. At least for today, tomorrow and possibly Saturday. It's hard to say really, our weather men are 98% wrong it seems. Tomorrow they say mid 80s! WHOA! Too bad I'll be at work. Though I might appreciate the air condition office building.

See that's just like us Seattle types. We complain when it rains. Complain when it's sunny and complain when it's both. We're never satisfied. I blame Geeksoft! No reason in particular. I just do.

The sunny weather brings every freak known to man out. People roll their windows down and they assume I need to hear their stupid music. Puleeze! I want to hear my music that's blaring with MY windows down.

I have a bone to pick with you dear readers. Not a single one of you offered up to buy that Mustang for me OR the Zune. What gives? Here I'm all nice to you by writing and sharing my most inner most secrets and thoughts. Sheesh! The nerve!

This week was officially "Pamper Jenn" week (which is why I assumed I'd come home to find a Warrior Mustang in my driveway!). I got a pedicure (or a nice foot torture and pretty paint on the toes), got the hair cut and colored and finally today was a massage by Chicken Lady.

In other fine news of the day, The Yank gets a big YOU ROCK! He gave me the snazzy code for the honor roll of my donors. I'm trying to fix it to remove last names and all so never fear you'll true identity will be safe with me..some day! Anyhow, Yank...thanks - hey that rhymes. "Stop rhyming and I mean it." "Anyone want a peanut?"

Saturday will be another long walk. 16 miles is the goal. We have chicken out points where we (read: I) can choose to go back and not suffer the 16 miles. I'm game though. In fact, I'm more than game. Last Saturday stunk the big one and so I feel like I owe it to myself to really focus. Did a quicky 5 miles yesterday, but haven't been able to get any walking in the rest of the week. I have been able to get in some cross training so Yah me. Just for that I think I should get to work from home tomorrow! As if.

On the work front, I got a big thumbs up for a Boring Unfortunate Meeting and my attention to my projects. Yay me - two! I got some good feedback from appropriate people. But still other appropriate people could not find it to actually say "good job" but instead found "fault" in what I should have done. Argh!

Shooting at the walls of heartache... Bang! Bang! I am a warrior... In Pink!

No not for donations. That I have covered. I need money so I can buy this.

CLICK ME TO SEE WHAT I NEED TO BUY!!!

What? You don't think I'm serious, do ya? I'm so serious. My BigBro sent this to me though fearful I'd get in my current beautiful stang and drive to the local Ford dealer and trade my baby in. And don't think for a minute I didn't consider at least calling to see how much. I mean really! This is AWESOME.

I see you by the way. I can see you all rolling your eyes. I gotta tell ya, if Ford were fronting more than just $250 for each purchase, I'd seriously consider it. But then I'd need a second and third job to pay for a new car.

OH and OMG I can get a WARRIOR ZUNE! ARGH!!! BigBro you. Are. Evil! Anyone got a spare $250 they can give me? Come one! It's for a good cause. If you want to donate a ZUNE to my personal growth - I mean really, doesn't a girl need a zune to walk with?, I'd be glad to send you my home address for shipping purposes. Just let me know, k? MomUnit? Got some extra cash in your couch cushions?

Okay, so I decided to keep myself somewhat limited and only ordered a t-shirt, or two or three!

Moving on to other pink related news. The much awaited announcement of my most recent pink purchase. Wouldn't it be awesome if it was the Mustang? At least it is something that can travel.
No need to adjust your computer monitor. Or rub your eyes in disbelief. It is in fact a pink with polka dots suitcase. The upside, besides all it's pinkness, is that I can almost guarantee I'd see it instantly when it comes out of the baggage claim. And if anyone DARES walk off with it I'd see it. Yah, sure it might get dirty, but dirty pink is still pink.

I am starting to think I have a sickness. Pink Fever! I wonder if its contagious! DOH better go wash your hands. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go drool over a pink mustang. Oh shoosh, you know you want too to. Go ahead. I give you permission.

Mom, I love you more than you love me because you have only loved me for a part of your life and I have loved you for all of mine.

HAPPY MOM'S DAY MOM!!!!

I could go on and on why I cherish my mom. Many of my stories aren't any different than most women who are fortunate enough to have their best friend be their mom. ( I can guarantee she tears up as she reads that last line.) My mom knows me better than anyone else and has always been quick with a thump on the head to straighten up. She's just as quick with an "atta girl" when it applied.

I'll be your shoulder when you need someone to lean on.
Be your shelter. When you need someone to see you through.
I'll be there to carry you. I'll be there.
I'll be the rock that will be strong for you.
The one that will hold on to you.
When you feel that rain falling down.
When there's nobody else around. I'll be.

When I think back to the early years of my life I was always a momma's girl. I have several cherished memories of watching my mom be the strong, never bending woman during times you were sure she'd falter. I can remember, specifically, a day in college when I decided it was okay to be like her.

I look at my life now and see so many similarities. As much as I tried to not be like her - because face it we all want to be unique - the truth is I am her. We not only look a bit a like (ya think?) but I see myself as a fighter, a woman who will not be held back or held down. Push me, kick me, try to hold me under the water and see me fail, and I will prove you wrong. That was my mom. She battled in the land of the good old boys at Boeing to be a manager and try to make a difference in the company. A career woman because she had to be. A mom because she wanted to be. Lubya mom. (BTW for those of you who like to email me because I've spelled something wrong...that is an inside joke with my mom and me and so please don't email me to tell me I spelled luv ya wrong.)

And...in other news. The weekend walk was 14 miles. We took off from BigBro's house at 7am and walked the Burke Gilman trail to the University of Washington. Up over this BIG hill in the U district, down the back side and over to Greenlake,then back to BigBro's. I struggled yesterday. At one point, I wanted to just sit on the curve and not move for 3 days. I just didn't want to go on. I was done. My self speak was all about wondering what the hell I was doing thinking I could walk 60 miles. It was a stupid idea to ever think, and I should just quit now! Yah, great self speak huh? But somehow I managed to put one foot in front of the other and we made it home. Once home I was very glad I was out walking, but still. I was one tired puppy.

So where am I with my adventure? I'm over $3000 ($3,125) in donations (see below for the most recent shout outs), and yesterday put me over 200 training miles (210 to be exact). Just looking at those two numbers and I see why I'm doing this.

Big HUGE shout out to Susan and Felicia for your donations. I'm always amazed that people are generous even when they don't know you. Thank you again.

And MOMUNIT...wow...thank you for your extremely generous donation. I knew you said you'd donate with a hefty amount, but holy cow...thanks.

If anyone knows how I can get the roll call from my 3day site onto this blog, please let me know! I think it would be kick ass to have here.

And with that...Jenn over and out.

PS I bought another pink item that I'll blog about later. But suffice it to say, everyone of whom I've either told or have seen it have given me the "you've got to be kidding me." look.

Hello? Hello out there! Anyone there?

Yah I bet that's what some of you are saying. My deepest apologies for taking such a break from writing. It wasn't intentional, I just lost track of time.

Last week wasn't such a great week at work, which could account for my lack of writing. Let's just say that things have been said. Thoughts have been processed. Decisions need to be made.

The ParentalUnits were here this weekend after a lovely extended cruise in which they took great joy in spending my inheritance. And all I got from it was a lousy t-shirt...oh wait, I didn't even get that! No matter. It was good to see them again and glad they are out gallivanting around the globe in their retirement.

I have a few more shout outs to make! I'm officially half way + a couple hundred to my $5,000 goal. WHOA! You all rock! Every single one of you who's donated. But more importantly the following get their very own shout outs!

OPSTADS OF THE LAKE! THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS DONATION!

MR. VOLLEYBALL AND THE DANE: WOW! THAT'S ALL I CAN SAY. WOW. MR. VOLLEYBALL WE'VE BEEN FRIENDS FOR A LONG LONG LONG TIME AND I'M SO VERY FORTUNATE TO HAVE YOU AS A FRIEND. THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATION!

NEVADA TURTLE'S COMPADRES: I'M ALWAYS SHOCKED THAT PEOPLE WHO DON'T EVEN KNOW ME DONATE TO SUCH A FANTASTIC CAUSE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND DONATION.

TIT: YES THAT'S RIGHT! I REMEMBER BACK IN HIGH SCHOOL WHEN WE GOT OUR INITIALS ON OUR LETTERMAN JACKETS AND YOURS CAME BACK T.I.T. THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATION!

Whew! My cup runneth over!

I made a sentimental leap this weekend that I'd like to share. I've been trying to think of a way to carry everyone who's offered support to me through donations with me during the walk. I've decided that I'm going to write everyone's name on a t-shirt and wear it. BigBro suggested that I offer up certain locations to the highest bidder. It seems odd to think about pimping certain anatomyout for a cause, but if it means big money, why not!

Last weekend BigBro, Blue and I walked 10 miles. That put me at 190 training miles. Then the 5 BigBro and I did tonight makes me teetering on hitting the 200 mark. Our big 15/15 back to back walk is scheduled for Memorial Day weekend. We'll walk 15 Friday night and 15 Saturday. Sunday I'll be dead. Monday I might be okay, though TBD.

Oh and I'm heading south. That's right, heading to Orlando, FL for a wee bit of vacation and then a conference. I leave the end of May for the vacation part. Any suggestions on what to do there besides Disney and Kennedy Space Center would be most welcome. St. Louis Sister-In-Law will be joining me for our mini-break - so look out Orlando! I could care less about Disney. We have a plan to see the space center, so I need something more. Shopping of course will be on the agenda...that's a given with SLSIL.

So for not...toodles! Gotta get some more work done.