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.

Santa Pookie

Many of you who read my blog know about the black mangy cat that I live with. Pookie. He's my buddy. I have several names that I adoringly call him: PookieSnack, Snack-N-Poop, Big Black Beast of Burden, Sweety, Hey you, "Get off the table", Mr. Vocal, Gato Lindo (beautiful cat in spanish), etc. And I'm sure if Pookie could talk he'd have a few "names" for me.

It's not like he's doted on or anything. He lavishes in the attention he gets from me, when he wants it. He sleeps on soft cushy furniture and or bed. Has an eternal trough of food and water. He really has it tough. Just ask him, he'll tell you. Poor neglected kitty.

Then there are days like today in which I'm sure if he could talk, he'd have nothing pleasant to say. I have to admit something to you, my lovely readers. I like to torment my cat occasionally.

Today was just that occasion.

Stopping at Rite-Aid on the way home to buy a Santa hat for tomorrows Dudley Manlove Holiday show, I saw this cute little, miniature Santa hat for dogs and cats. AND it was on sale. Well, then. "It's adorable," I said to myself, "I Must buy." As I got to the cashier she asked what kind of dog I had. When I explained that it was for my cat, she directed me to Aisle 2 for band aids. Silly woman, Pookie's de-clawed for JUST this reason.

I giggled all the way home thinking about putting it on the cat. Well, maybe no giggled, but laughed with an evil slant to it. I had to plan it just right, or he keen sense of smell would tell him something was up.

I nonchalantly entered the house. Put everything down, and out came the screaming banshee out of the room. He's a talkative sort you see. Ask anyone who knows him...he's got a lot to say and say it he does. I'm convinced he actually has the answer for world peace, but since I don't speak cat, no comprendo.

I followed my normal routine so not as to cause any suspicion. All the while, Mr. Vocal following me throughout the apt. "meow" - Changed clothes. Meow - went potty (too much information?). Meow - got myself something to drink. Meow - pulled out the tri-pod... wait, what the...? ...tripod? I could see the suspicion welling in his eyes. But still, Mr. Not So Smart didn't leave my side. He still had so much to tell me. "Meow" ( I slept in.) "Meow" (then I ate) "Meow" (then I slept again) "Meow" (Then I stretched and slept some more), etc.

I set the tri-pod up and a chair in front of the Christmas tree. Putting his new little costume on the chair, I figured I'd have plenty of time to put the hat on him and sit and smile for the picture.

Making sure everything was right, I went for it. Started walking toward him, as he started walking away. He stayed one step in front of me, just out of grasp the entire time. Stupid cat. Or rather, maybe smart cat. Finally, I grabbed him. He protested the entire time I carried him to the chair. I thought myself quite smart to have the darling, little hat ready to put on him though. But Mr. Squirm-butt was having none of that. So this was the shot.

Yah, you see where this is headed, don't you?

Attempt number two resulted in me attempting to herd the cat, put the hat on him, all the while, "him" being a slippery as a greased pig. I know his fur is all nice and soft and everything, but slippery? Whodathunk? He was wise to what was up at this point, so I figured I had two more good opportunities to get this photo or he'd be hidden for days.

So this was attempt 3:

If looks could kill man. I'd be dead.

But the crafty little bugger got away this time. So I did what any sane cat owner would do when the feline won't come when you call. I opened a can of tuna. What? Like you wouldn't have done that. See, Pookie isn't THAT smart. He thought he was getting treats. AH-HA. Grabbed him. Hatted him. Hit the timer and got this:

So I think I'm going to stop while I'm ahead. Pookie and I send everyone a happy holiday's shout out. I gotta go check my shoes. Pookie might have left me a "lump of coal", if you know what I mean.

We're having a heat wave. A tropical heat wave.

I was thinking, shocked I know, about our news media here. Now, I realize they are no different than any other sensational-drama team in other parts of the world. But I love, I LOVE, the drama about weather. There, apparently, has been no other news in our region or around the world in the last 4 days. Because the ONLY thing on the news are the drama queens (all of them are queens...if you know what I mean?) has been the -insert evil sounding voice - The Snowflakes of death. Duh duh duunnnnnn

But today, today we're having a heat wave. I'm about to swap my closet back to the summer clothes. It was 35 today. And you know what's on the news, the weather. That's right. Of course, I realize I'm only adding to the drama by complaining non stop for 4 days now about the weather, but hey, I - hate - the - snow. Yesterday I got so bored at home that I started plotting my trip around the world. Including the cost. After I did the cost, there will be no trip around the world for St. Jenn of the Blessed Sarcasm. At least not until she meets and marrys Mr. Rich all the time.

And in case you care, and I know you do or you wouldn't be reading. It is official. November was the wettest month in history. Well, since like 1933. We've had 15.59 inches in ONE month. "That amount shatters the December 1933 record of 15.33 inches, which was collected at the Federal Building in Seattle."

There. That should be enough to not invite anyone to visit Seattle for a very long time. At least until the summer, because its beautiful here.

Snow Patrol: Round Duo

Baby its cold out there. I will, I promise, stop whimpering about the frozen tundra I live in. I promise. But until then, I'm too cold to whimper.

The "great snow storm of 2006" isn't coming to an end anytime soon. I've not made it to work this week. Though ironically I was able to make it to a lunch with the VPs of the new company I'll be working for. Though, not the smartest thing I've done all year. Those there roads were ice. And my frozen pony doesn't like ice. And dirty. Jeezus. That road grime when they sand is just down right nasty.

If you know me at all, you know I am totally in love with the black cat that lives with me. Or rather that I live with. This nutty feline has kept me in stitches for years. Earlier today I couldn't find him. He wouldn't come when I called him (yes, he generally comes when I call him). I looked in every hiding place I knew existed. Then I walked back into my room and I heard a muffled Pookie lazy meow. I pulled the blanket back and there he was. He had wedged himself UNDER the blanket. Something tells me Pookie might be cold. So I did what any deranged parent would do. I took a picture.

But the Fire is so delightful

Yes, Its 9:25 AM and I have a fire in my fire place. I awoke this morning to a smashing 18 degrees outside. EIGHTEEN-F*#%&$G - Degrees. I'd like to ask, when did I move to North Dakota. Its freakin' cold outside.

Seattle doesn't do snow and ice very well. Right before the evening commute last night it started to snow. Many people were stranded and or crashed. It took Sherrie 5.5 hours to go 15 miles to get home. FIVE HOURS. Oy vei!

But today. Today is a true snow day. The large software company in Redmond actually closed today. I was planning on staying home anyways, or at least going in later, but for them to close, you know it's bad.

My mom seems to be of the belief that we, Seattlites, are paying for our beautiful summer we had. And I think she might be on to something. The weather gods have decided that since we had such a nice, long, rain free summer that they will unleash their fury on us. First the floods, now the ice. I checked the bible and there's no reference of Noah putting skis on the arc. So I may have to rewrite that section.

Gotta go thaw out the cat. He's got a parka and uggs on.

IT'S A STAY HOME DAY!

Remember when we were kids, and the slightest mention of snow meant we'd wake super early to flip on the radio for the school closure report. Then we'd sit, patiently waiting to hear our school district closed for the day. With each school that was read - usually in alphabetical order - you waited. Then as if the angels were listening to your prayers for a day off from school, you'd hear them say your school was closed.

Today was one of those days for most kids in the northern Seattle area. I watched the snow continually fall last night and thought, "There's no way in hell I'm driving to work tomorrow." Then this morning, like a kid waiting for the announcement, I flipped on the TV. Waiting. Hoping. Wishing they'd say, "no work today." But of course they didn't.

So I left. My shivering pony reluctantly pulled out of the parking spot. Slipping and sliding our way down to the street I held my breath. The roads didn't look bad, but looks, as we all know, can be deceiving. 32 degrees outside and "wet" roads really mean 32 degrees and ICE. The stang and I cautiously drove to the corner coffee hut I go to every morning. What? If I'm gonna die driving, I at least want my coffee. As I sat there I watched three or four cars spin out of control. Coffee in hand, I drove home. No need to risk life, limb or the new car to get to a job in which I don't have that much to do.

So today is a snow day for me. It'll cost me I'm sure. First I don't get paid for today and secondly the heat will be on all day, which isn't normal.

I stood at my sliding glass door checking out how much snow was on the fence post. Pookie looked like he desperately wanted out. So I opened the door. Now, you should know that Pookie isn't an outdoor cat. I keep telling him he has it really good inside and he should stay inside. But I cracked the door enough for him to peek out. One paw moved forward to the cold frozen cement deck. And one paw quickly came back inside. He turned and walked away. Uh-huh, just as I thought.

The sun is shining, which just means we have no cloud cover, which means its butt cold out there. The thermometer says 31...ugh. I need to move south. And if you can't read the ruler it's just shy of 4 inches. The shivering car to the right is my mustang. I'm sure there's some of you on the east coast that are calling me a wuss right now...but keep in mind, Seattle is a hilly town, and most of the time we don't see snow. So when it does dump snow, it's serious.

Oh the Weather outside is Frightful....

Look! I built a snowman.

Okay well maybe I didn't build those.

But I built this one.

Ken, while visiting, mentioned that I need to blog about more than the weather. But when the

weather is as *exciting* as it is in Seattle, why not blog about it.

As I sit and type, I can see my Christmas tree (yes I've already put it up) and the snow falling. Yes, you read that correctly. Its snowing. I'm not a big fan of the snow. In fact, would prefer it to just be on TV or in the movies. Its 33 outside and white as ever. Naturally, I'm not going anywhere because as we know the Mustang and anything white do not get along. So I'm staying put. I did venture out with my camera to snag a picture as proof that it's snowing.




Ken and Vicky should be on their way home now. We had a fun time I think. We went into Seattle on Friday and went to Pike Place Market. Packed. It was absolutely packed. Where did all these people in November come from. Um,hello, tourist season is over. Go home! But it was sunny and relatively clear, so I guess that's why people were out. But despite all the people, Pike's Place Market is one of my favorite Seattle destinations. If you look close to the top left, you can see this thing they call "blue sky".

We're not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy!

That was what was on a bumper sticker my Great Aunt Martha sent me when I went off to boarding school in Switzerland. In her letter she sent with the bumper sticker she wrote, "While away from your norm, live, explore, and experience." I called her Auntie M and she was one of my favorite aunts.

Auntie M left us yesterday. She was called to new life in heaven to be with all her brothers, sisters, parents and beloved animals that had passed. It was her time, and I'm glad she's in a happier place today. She'll be remembered in my heart with a smile.

Yesterday was a day to give thanks and even as I write this I get a bit teary-eyed. I hosted Thanksgiving here for friend Vicky, her husband Ken and his family. I originally volunteered to host it because they would all be up here for a wedding and were going to go to a restaurant. Then once they were here I found out they hadn't been together for Thanksgiving for some time and this was an opportunity for them to get caught up. To be able to provide dinner and a place for them to do just that, really meant a lot to me. While I may not have been with my family, I believe the holidays are about doing these types of things. And it fills me with joy knowing I could do it.

The feast included all my family favorites.Me, Vicky and Ken

I have to send a shout out to my mom though. Without her "forcing" me to help her in my younger years, then us doing it together for years as a team - almost looking forward to it - I never would have been able to pull off this feast. And a feast it was. 11 of us ate our way through the day yesterday and everyone left full and happy. Mom and I spoke throughout the day "checking" in to make sure our feasts were coming off without any "surprises." No Thanksgiving can be smooth and without "issues". My turkey wasn't thawed completely - a call to mom to ask what to do. While mom was cooking jello, boiling the water and actually adding the jello to the boiling water and cooking it. Um, yah....All in all though I'm sure her feast was spectacular. I KNOW mine was.

Windshield wipers slapping out a tempo....

My mother, bless her, cursed me. She, not more than 1 hour ago, asked me when the Thanksgiving Day storm was supposed to be here. It's a joke to those of us who live and love Seattle. Doing a Thanksgiving dinner when the power goes out...that's a good time.

I should probably catch you up to date as to why mom and I were having this conversation. Friends, Vicky and Ken are heading up here from California as we speak. Ken's brother is getting married this weekend and he and his bride (Vicky) and Ken's family are all up here. They were planning on going to a restaurant for Thanksgiving....so, me, being the nice girl I am, invited them to my place for a real like Turkey dinner. Well, the turkey won't be live. But the entertainment will be.

Since the invite, and the acceptance, Ken has been "preparing" me via Vicky about his "crazy" family. Ken clearly hasn't met the Wraspir clan. We put the "craze" in crazy. Ken assures me that after this Thanksgiving I'll have much more interesting things to blog about than the weather....hey wait? Is that an insult?

So...now that you're caught up. I called mom today asking how long it would take to cook a 21 pound bird in a turkey bag. She called back and told me to open my bag and it would tell me. Surprise! I didn't have a turkey bag, I had a small meat bag for only 8-10 lbs. Yah, the 21 pounder isn't likely to fit, unless I cut it apart and use all the bags on all the parts. This wasn't starting out well.

Off I went to find a Turkey bag. Stopping at Starbucks on the way, because a search for a Turkey bag requires a Grande Vanilla Americano for assistance and courage.

One hour and 4 stores later, I find my bag. BUT.... suddenly the once relatively bright sky is BLACK. And by black, I mean the mean dark clouds that just look like the devil is lurking in them. Now, many of you know of my beloved vehicle, my mustang. The mustang doesn't like water. It's a horse not a fish. Though I'm getting estimates to equip it with snorkel gear. Anyhow, the sky opened up. I'm about 2 miles from my apt, the windshields were pounding out a tempo but it was one fast tempo.

Thunder

Lightening

Rain

Rain

A lot of Rain....

... and then...

Oh Hail!

The roads are white and the hail is coming down in massive amounts of white. My first thought, though not for my safety or the safety of those around me, but rather, "This freakin hail better now dent my car."

The mustang doesn't like hail either. Which just proves my point that any white substance falling from the sky is an invitation for me to stay home from work.

So, turkey bag in hand, extra onion just in case, and the Thanksgiving day storm...I'm all set. Now all I need is the power to go out. Crap. I had to say it didn't I?

And now, more on that subject

Okay, so I need to catch some of you up on the whole "I got the job" post. First off, thank you everyone for your excitement. I could feel the worldly sigh of relief. I bet you think it'll stop me writing about the weather, don't you? Hah. Shows how much you know.

Now, what about this job?

Its the job I wanted. The company is called Content Master and they are based out of the UK. There are many reasons I'm excited about this job. The first being that I can utilize my project management skills now in an environment that needs structure. I'm all about the structure and all about "streamlining" things. So that makes me happy.

Then there's the fact that its a small office. Here in the US, there are only 4 other guys and me. Oh goody. And all of them are of the smart ass persuasion, so that'll be good. And, more importantly, they are all smart. I suspect I'll be learning a lot from this crowd. So very exciting.

The company is just down the road from where I work now, so commuting will be the same. I'm hoping I can still manage to commute with my carpool partner, we'll see how that goes.

In other news, this weekend was the BIG GAME. The Apple Cup. I will refrain from commenting on this debacle called a football game. As typical, the Cougs - my team - came out strong, and well, both teams (UW Huskies vs WSU Cougs) practiced their punting a lot during the first half. Then in typical Cougar fashion, they forgot there was a second half. Either way, though we had good food and good friends over watching.

A little serving of Jenn

Lesley tagged the world, so I figured I would follow her instructions. You don't wanna piss Lesley off.

Holiday Edition of Getting to Know Your Friends


1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Egg nog makes me gag. So I'm going with HC - with whip of course.

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
Yes. And Santa was very careful to make sure that sis and I had the same # and roughly all the same size of packages. Not that we were competitive or anything. Never. Not us.

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
This might be where I admit a little bit of OCD...I like them all to match. The multi-colored ones hurt my head.

4. Do you hang mistletoe?
Of course. You never know when the x-crush might be lingering in your doorway. Of course its a double edge sword. You never know when that icky person may linger too.

5. When do you put your decorations up?
Don't tell, but the Friday AFTER Thanksgiving. I love me some decorating for Christmas. My apt generally looks like a snowman blew up in it.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)
Broccoli Casserole. OMG. I don't know where mom found the recipe, but its now and has been for many a Christmas' my favorite.

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child:
Oh...hmmmm...it might be my Grandma Miller's wrapping. She used to use this metallic sparkly paper and put a unique design on each of our packages. I wish now, as an adult and with her no longer with us, that I would have taken a picture of them. They were beautiful.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I'm pretty sure my older sister told me. I don't really remember, but knowing my sister, she told me. And she probably tortured me with it by saying Santa didn't like me or something.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Nope. We were allowed to open ONE gift on Christmas Eve and it was almost ALWAYS pick up sticks. Don't know why or how that tradition started, but every year we get pick up sticks...oh and the chocolate covered cherries. MMMM

10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?
Er, ah, with my hands. Oh and Pookie. He generally helps. But ornament wise, I'm a snowman girl. Many of my ornaments are snowmen, or flamingos. Don't ask. No garland though and no tinsel - the cat eats it.

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
Hate it. Especially if I have to drive in it. If it would snow and NOT land on the roads, I'd be fine.

12. Can you ice skate?
Yes, if I'm very drunk, because that's the ONLY time you'd get me on skates. Though a couple of years ago for my birthday -which is 4 days after Christmas - I was going to have a big party at the local ice skating rink, but all hell froze over that Christmas.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
Em, no. I don't think I had a favorite. Maybe the Barbie camper or the airplane. I was big into Barbies.

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you?
The food. Dah, have you met me. Oh and maybe the family and going to Tucson. Its warm in Tucson. I'm usually the ONLY person at Christmas dinner with shorts on. Its like 75 for heavens sake...that is NOT sweater weather.

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
I'm not a big dessert fan, but I love me my mom's peanut butter fudge...or the chocolate fudge...mmmm... Hey Mom, get busy. You need to have that made by the time I get down there. You have 31 days.

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Mom and I making the dinner. We get up early, and work our butts off. We make Clam dip and have it about 3 quarters the way through getting stuff done. Its fun. We move around the kitchen like we're related or something.

17. What tops your tree?
A gold star I bought at Crate & Barrel two years ago.

18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving?
Well, I'd prefer getting, but in the spirit of Christmas, as I've aged, I like the idea of giving - especially to charities.

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
I'd say "do they know it's Christmas" But Lesley may be reading this and she'll punch me. So I'll go with Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow! And funny Jenn story - when I was in choir many years ago, we were singing O Holy Night and we messed up the lyrics and I now sing it the WRONG way every time. Instead of "O Holy Night, the stars are brightly shining." We/I sang, "O Holy Night, the stars are shightly BrY-ning"...and so that's how I sing it. What? Like you're surprised I'm a goof ball.

20. Candy Canes?
Yuck. Hate um.

And for those of you who care, my Christmas cards are done, hand made, addressed, stamped, with Christmas letter inside...and ready to be sent December 1st. If you want a special handmade Christmas card from Jenn, and you know you do, AND you're not on the regular Jenn mailing list, just send me your address and I'll oblige.