So, I get home tonight & immediately, I FEEL that something is wrong. My usually warm & cozy home was chilly & uncomfortable. I let Maisy outside to go to the bathroom & when we came back in, something still didn't feel right. So, I checked the thermometer.
Well, no wonder.
It read 58 degrees!
I did what any normal person would do & turned the heat up.
Nothing happened.
So, then I start freaking out that maybe I forgot to pay the gas bill & the gas company shut it off. (I'm famous for being late on our electric bill, but I've always paid the gas bill on time). I get the bill & realize that the due date isn't until February 12th. So, I call our gas company.
Me: "Yes, hi...I'm a customer of yours & when I got home tonight, I realized that our heat wasn't working. And, I think it's been off for a while because it says it's 58 degrees in my house."
Lady: "OK. What appliances run off gas?"
Me: "The dryer & the heater."
She tells me to see if the dryer works. It does. I would later learn that she failed to ask me if it was putting out hot air. Then, she asks me to see if I have hot water. I do.
Lady: "Well, it's not on our end. It's on your end. You need to call a heat/air company to come out & check it."
It's at this point when I remember seeing several trucks from our gas company sitting the parking lot of the golf course near our neighborhood.
Me: "Well, I just remembered seeing some company trucks near my neighborhood. Do you think maybe something happened the gas line? If I give you my address, can you check to see if crews are working close by?"
Lady: "No, if your dryer came on & you have hot water, it's not us. It's you."
Me: "Well, OK, thanks."
Matt gets home & I tell him what's going on. When he was in high school, he worked for a heating/air company, so he puts his "I Know It All" hat on & begins investigating.
Meanwhile, I call the company he used to work for to find out if someone can come out & look at the problem. The girl tells me that because it's an "after hours" call, it's going to cost $150 for the 1st half hour & $75 for each half hour after that, plus materials.
WHAT?
I told her I'd call her back. (Um, no thanks).
As soon as I hang up the phone, Matt comes back in the house & tells me that we just don't have gas. He says the heat wants to come on, but something's just not connecting.
So, I call the gas company emergency line AGAIN & get a different person. I tell him what's going on (no heat, trucks in my neighborhood) & he asks me where I live, so I told him. Then, he tells me that the gas line was cut & that crews are out in the neighborhood turning the gas back on. He says that if a crew came by earlier & we weren't home, then they should have left a tag on the door with a number for us to call to tell them we're home & they can come back.
I tell Matt to go outside to check.
He comes back in & says there's no tag, but the gas man in our front yard says he's going to turn it back on.
WHAT? HE'S IN THE FRONT YARD?
Wow! Talk about service.
So, the gas man does his job & now we have heat! And, lemme tell you, it feels SO GOOD!
After we finally get that problem solved, Maisy eats a bowl full of her food & then pukes it all up on a bathmat in our bathroom!
Wonderful, just wonderful.
**My wonderful husband would like me to tell you, Internet, that he was correct when he said we didn't have gas. So, sweetie...YOU WERE RIGHT! Actually, I'm just surprised that he read my blog. I ask him everyday if he read it & he claims he can't remember the web address.**
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Monday, January 29, 2007
Reasons Why I Can't Stay in Bed All Day
I'm sick!
So, I stayed home from work today. But, with a little rest & some medicine, I'm feeling better, thank you.
While laying in bed, watching "A Wedding Story" & praying to the "Get Well Soon" Gods, I realized that being sick as an adult is NOTHING like being sick when you're a kid.
When you're a kid & you're sick, your mom takes care of you. She gets you your medicine, fixes your meals, makes sure you're not too cold, not too hot & brings you fun surprises to make you feel better. As a kid, you can lay in bed all day long & you don't have any ADULT worries.
When you're an adult & you're sick, you have to get your own medicine & fix your own meals. You can't lay in bed all day because the household chores still have to be done. Those dishes you use to fix your lunch have to be put in the dishwasher. The dog has to be let outside to pee. Laundry still has to be done. Bills still have to be paid.
Shall I go on?
I guess there is bright side to all this. I know I'll get some special treatment from Matt when he gets home from work. He'll fix me whatever I want for dinner & take over the "dog duties".
And, if I give him my best "I'm sick" look, he might even watch part of the Miss America pageant with me.
Nah!
So, I stayed home from work today. But, with a little rest & some medicine, I'm feeling better, thank you.
While laying in bed, watching "A Wedding Story" & praying to the "Get Well Soon" Gods, I realized that being sick as an adult is NOTHING like being sick when you're a kid.
When you're a kid & you're sick, your mom takes care of you. She gets you your medicine, fixes your meals, makes sure you're not too cold, not too hot & brings you fun surprises to make you feel better. As a kid, you can lay in bed all day long & you don't have any ADULT worries.
When you're an adult & you're sick, you have to get your own medicine & fix your own meals. You can't lay in bed all day because the household chores still have to be done. Those dishes you use to fix your lunch have to be put in the dishwasher. The dog has to be let outside to pee. Laundry still has to be done. Bills still have to be paid.
Shall I go on?
I guess there is bright side to all this. I know I'll get some special treatment from Matt when he gets home from work. He'll fix me whatever I want for dinner & take over the "dog duties".
And, if I give him my best "I'm sick" look, he might even watch part of the Miss America pageant with me.
Nah!
Sunday, January 28, 2007
My Cousin's Wedding & a Cute Picture of Maisy (Post Her Weekend with Matt's Mom)
This weekend, my sister, Jackson, Riley, Matt & I drove to Texas for my cousin, Karen's wedding.
The above picture is of the 5 cousins at the Bridesmaids' Luncheon on Friday (from left to right: Cheryl, Karen, Holly, Shelley & me).
It was a beautiful wedding & I'm so happy that my cousin found happiness with her now husband, John.
Here's Karen on Saturday, getting ready in the Bridal Room at the church.
This is me & Holly at the reception.
Do you think we look alike?
Here's me, my mom & Holly.
I love this picture of Matt & Jackson. They had just finished a game of "living room football", when I noticed they were wearing the same shirt. Of course, I had to document it.
After the wedding, my Aunt hosted a family dinner, so that all the out-of-town relatives could have a chance to catch up with each other.
However, my sister, Jackson & Matt decided to have a friendly competition of "see who can do the most push-ups". Jackson claims he won by doing a total of 40.
Maisy, meanwhile, spent the weekend with Matt's mom. We love it when we get her home because within about 10 minutes, she's fast asleep, which keeps her out of our way all night.
This is how I found her after dinner.
Go figure!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Happy Birthday, Madeline!
My niece, Madeline, turns 3 years old today!
She's getting to be such a big girl. I was there the day she was born & she's had a part of my heart ever since.
She has the curliest blonde hair & the sweetest voice you'll ever hear.
Happy Birthday!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Operation Find Maisy
OK, so last night, Maisy gave me the biggest scare.
Matt & I always joke with each other about Maisy & how we hope that one day she'll dig out of the backyard & leave. We are TOTALLY just kidding. We don't really want her to do that.
So, last night I let her out to pee & a few minutes later Matt asked me where she was. I said she was outside. He looked out of the blinds in the living room & said he couldn't see her. I told him she was probably in the corner eating grass. He walked outside on the back porch & looked in
her normal "corner"...she wasn't there. So, I put some shoes on & went outside to look for her. I was calling her name & walking along the perimeter of our fence.
Nothing.
It was dark outside & she's a dark dog, but usually if we call her name, we'll at least hear her coming.
Nothing.
I ran back in the house, panicking, on the verge of tears, just as Matt was coming outside with a flashlight. I told him she wasn't out there. He said she's gotta be out there, it's a fenced in yard.
Right about that time, Maisy comes running. I had never been so happy to see her!
After giving her some kisses, Matt & I walked along the fence, just to make sure she really hadn't dug a hole out. No holes. We think she must have been behind the shed that's at the opposite end of where I was looking. Matt thinks when I starting calling her name, she started making her way towards me, but just not quick enough. And, because it was dark, I just couldn't see her.
Later, I told Matt that in that brief minute that I thought she was missing, I had already come up with "Operation Find Maisy". I knew I needed to make fliers with her picture on them to post in the neighborhood & I knew that Matt needed to get in the car & go look for her. I also knew I wouldn't be able to sleep until we found her. Matt kind of chuckled & said, "You thought of all that in one minute?". I told him I did. He said, "Well, it's good to know that if she ever does go missing, you have a plan of action." As a dog mom, you have to think about these things, you know? I don't know what I would do if something ever happened to her!
As we were going to bed, Matt said, "You know, I wouldn't have thought to put Maisy's picture on any fliers." I just kind of smiled. Then he said, "I would have just written 'Lost: Fat Dog'. And, as soon as anyone spotted her, they'd say, 'Hey, look, there's a fat dog. That must be the one that's missing'." Then, he kind of laughed.
I didn't think it was THAT funny...
Matt & I always joke with each other about Maisy & how we hope that one day she'll dig out of the backyard & leave. We are TOTALLY just kidding. We don't really want her to do that.
So, last night I let her out to pee & a few minutes later Matt asked me where she was. I said she was outside. He looked out of the blinds in the living room & said he couldn't see her. I told him she was probably in the corner eating grass. He walked outside on the back porch & looked in
her normal "corner"...she wasn't there. So, I put some shoes on & went outside to look for her. I was calling her name & walking along the perimeter of our fence.
Nothing.
It was dark outside & she's a dark dog, but usually if we call her name, we'll at least hear her coming.
Nothing.
I ran back in the house, panicking, on the verge of tears, just as Matt was coming outside with a flashlight. I told him she wasn't out there. He said she's gotta be out there, it's a fenced in yard.
Right about that time, Maisy comes running. I had never been so happy to see her!
After giving her some kisses, Matt & I walked along the fence, just to make sure she really hadn't dug a hole out. No holes. We think she must have been behind the shed that's at the opposite end of where I was looking. Matt thinks when I starting calling her name, she started making her way towards me, but just not quick enough. And, because it was dark, I just couldn't see her.
Later, I told Matt that in that brief minute that I thought she was missing, I had already come up with "Operation Find Maisy". I knew I needed to make fliers with her picture on them to post in the neighborhood & I knew that Matt needed to get in the car & go look for her. I also knew I wouldn't be able to sleep until we found her. Matt kind of chuckled & said, "You thought of all that in one minute?". I told him I did. He said, "Well, it's good to know that if she ever does go missing, you have a plan of action." As a dog mom, you have to think about these things, you know? I don't know what I would do if something ever happened to her!
As we were going to bed, Matt said, "You know, I wouldn't have thought to put Maisy's picture on any fliers." I just kind of smiled. Then he said, "I would have just written 'Lost: Fat Dog'. And, as soon as anyone spotted her, they'd say, 'Hey, look, there's a fat dog. That must be the one that's missing'." Then, he kind of laughed.
I didn't think it was THAT funny...
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes!
If you're ever looking for a gift for Matt, whatever you do, DO NOT buy him a new pillow!
I unknowingly made that mistake last night at Target.
I was there getting a few things & as I always do, I went to see if there were any sheets on sale. Instead of sheets, I found a huge display of pillows for $4.99. I'm ashamed to admit that the pillows we've been sleeping on are at least 8 or 9 years old! So, I decided to buy us each one. However, I would later learn that I should have consulted Matt first before purchasing what I thought was just an innocent pillow.
I brought the pillows home & put them on the counter so that I could bring the rest of the groceries in the house. Matt came in the kitchen & saw the pillows. That's when the following conversation took place.
Matt: "What is this?"
Me: "I bought us new pillows because the one we're using now are old."
Matt: "You mean, you want me to sleep on this?"
Me: "That would be a good observation."
Matt: "If you're going to make a change like this, you should consult me first."
Me: "Um, OK, it's just a pillow."
Matt: "Exactly!"
OK, here is where I should explain that this boy isn't much for change. It took him a week to readjust when he came home one day to find that his old alarm clock had been "replaced". Again, it was a trip to Target, where I found these really cool alarm clocks & bought us each one, not even thinking that asking him to part with his old one would be just devastating.
Matt: "Well, I can't sleep on this pillow tonight. You have to give me time get used to it."
Me: (jokingly) "OK, that's fine. Just put it by the bed & every once in a while, go talk to it, get to know it better."
What he means by saying he can't sleep on it right now is because it's not flat. He likes to sleep on very flat pillows, like paper thin almost. I tried to pick out the flattest pillow I could find, but I guess it wasn't up to his standards....because this is how I found the pillow later.
I unknowingly made that mistake last night at Target.
I was there getting a few things & as I always do, I went to see if there were any sheets on sale. Instead of sheets, I found a huge display of pillows for $4.99. I'm ashamed to admit that the pillows we've been sleeping on are at least 8 or 9 years old! So, I decided to buy us each one. However, I would later learn that I should have consulted Matt first before purchasing what I thought was just an innocent pillow.
I brought the pillows home & put them on the counter so that I could bring the rest of the groceries in the house. Matt came in the kitchen & saw the pillows. That's when the following conversation took place.
Matt: "What is this?"
Me: "I bought us new pillows because the one we're using now are old."
Matt: "You mean, you want me to sleep on this?"
Me: "That would be a good observation."
Matt: "If you're going to make a change like this, you should consult me first."
Me: "Um, OK, it's just a pillow."
Matt: "Exactly!"
OK, here is where I should explain that this boy isn't much for change. It took him a week to readjust when he came home one day to find that his old alarm clock had been "replaced". Again, it was a trip to Target, where I found these really cool alarm clocks & bought us each one, not even thinking that asking him to part with his old one would be just devastating.
Matt: "Well, I can't sleep on this pillow tonight. You have to give me time get used to it."
Me: (jokingly) "OK, that's fine. Just put it by the bed & every once in a while, go talk to it, get to know it better."
What he means by saying he can't sleep on it right now is because it's not flat. He likes to sleep on very flat pillows, like paper thin almost. I tried to pick out the flattest pillow I could find, but I guess it wasn't up to his standards....because this is how I found the pillow later.
Yes, he put books & magazines on top of it to flatten it out.
Then, I found him "testing it out" a little later. I don't know if you can see it, but he's giving me the "sad face".
So, then, I did the only thing a loving wife would do & made him pose with the new pillow.
In this picture, Maisy is barking. Matt says it's because she doesn't like the new pillow either!
After that, the pillow went back on the floor with the books & magazines on top of it. And, for now, the "pillow saga" continues.
I swear, if I didn't love the boy so much, he'd drive me absolutely insane.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Drinking From The Potty
What is it about toilets that makes dogs want to drink from them?
Seriously!
The 2 dogs I had while growing up drank from the toilet, my friends' dogs drink from the toilet, my relatives' dogs drink from the toilet...so, it should be no surprise that Maisy chooses to hydrate herself by...you guessed it...drinking from the toilet.
Never mind the dog has not one, BUT TWO, perfectly good water bowls available to her at any time, should she feel parched. One bowl is blue, the other is white. Funny thing is, she prefers her blue one. She won't drink much from the white one...even though she has no reserve about drinking from the "other" white bowl.
Matt & I are usually pretty good at putting the lid down on the toilet in both bathrooms, but every now & then, we forget. (Well, Matt forgets more than I do!). Maisy must have "lid up" radar because every now & then, she'll casually leave whatever room we're in & be gone for about 3 or 4 minutes. But, she gives herself away, because she comes back in the room, she's licking her choppers & more often that not, little droplets of water fall from her face.
We don't tell her we know what she's been doing because we don't want to spoil her little secret, instead we just go put the lid down & wait for the next time!
Seriously!
The 2 dogs I had while growing up drank from the toilet, my friends' dogs drink from the toilet, my relatives' dogs drink from the toilet...so, it should be no surprise that Maisy chooses to hydrate herself by...you guessed it...drinking from the toilet.
Never mind the dog has not one, BUT TWO, perfectly good water bowls available to her at any time, should she feel parched. One bowl is blue, the other is white. Funny thing is, she prefers her blue one. She won't drink much from the white one...even though she has no reserve about drinking from the "other" white bowl.
Matt & I are usually pretty good at putting the lid down on the toilet in both bathrooms, but every now & then, we forget. (Well, Matt forgets more than I do!). Maisy must have "lid up" radar because every now & then, she'll casually leave whatever room we're in & be gone for about 3 or 4 minutes. But, she gives herself away, because she comes back in the room, she's licking her choppers & more often that not, little droplets of water fall from her face.
We don't tell her we know what she's been doing because we don't want to spoil her little secret, instead we just go put the lid down & wait for the next time!
Friday, January 19, 2007
Open Mouth, Insert Foot
I consider myself a smart woman. I graduated from one of the toughest college's in the nation, mind you, but sometimes (as I'm sure we all do at one time), I open my mouth without thinking.
It probably happens more with me, then it does with you, though.
One story that I can't seem to live down, happened a few months ago at work, in one of our daily editorial meetings. Here's how it all went down.
That morning, one of my co-workers was giving a tour to some kids from the blind school. (Apparently, touring a TV station is really, really cool because we seem to get a lot of "tours"). Well, we had seen the group walk by a few times as the tour leader was explaining all the components of a newsroom. Often, during a tour, the leader likes to ask reporters, anchors & producers (like me), to explain what our duties are. Obviously, it's easier to explain if it's your job.
OK, so I noticed the tour group gathering around the desk of one of our reporters. The tour leader had asked her to tell the group what's involved with her job. So, she starts talking & all of a sudden, some of the kids from the back of the group, ran up close to the front.
I leaned over to my co-worker, Katy, and asked her, "Can those people read lips?".
Yes, those words actually came out of my mouth.
Katy says to me, "No, they're blind".
Then we both start laughing because I realize what I have said. Open mouth, insert foot.
Okay, so lemme explain myself. Some of these kids aren't totally blind...they can see okay with glasses. But, it also helps if they're up close with what they're trying to see. Kind of like when you're in school & you have to sit closer up to the chalkboard to see better. I was thinking that these kids wanted to get closer up to the reporter so that they could "see" her talking, kind of like reading lips.
Does that make any kind of sense? Sometimes I'm not very good at explaining myself.
Anyway, I have a few more stories that I'll share at a later date...like the latest one that happened today involving sneezing ketchup!
It probably happens more with me, then it does with you, though.
One story that I can't seem to live down, happened a few months ago at work, in one of our daily editorial meetings. Here's how it all went down.
That morning, one of my co-workers was giving a tour to some kids from the blind school. (Apparently, touring a TV station is really, really cool because we seem to get a lot of "tours"). Well, we had seen the group walk by a few times as the tour leader was explaining all the components of a newsroom. Often, during a tour, the leader likes to ask reporters, anchors & producers (like me), to explain what our duties are. Obviously, it's easier to explain if it's your job.
OK, so I noticed the tour group gathering around the desk of one of our reporters. The tour leader had asked her to tell the group what's involved with her job. So, she starts talking & all of a sudden, some of the kids from the back of the group, ran up close to the front.
I leaned over to my co-worker, Katy, and asked her, "Can those people read lips?".
Yes, those words actually came out of my mouth.
Katy says to me, "No, they're blind".
Then we both start laughing because I realize what I have said. Open mouth, insert foot.
Okay, so lemme explain myself. Some of these kids aren't totally blind...they can see okay with glasses. But, it also helps if they're up close with what they're trying to see. Kind of like when you're in school & you have to sit closer up to the chalkboard to see better. I was thinking that these kids wanted to get closer up to the reporter so that they could "see" her talking, kind of like reading lips.
Does that make any kind of sense? Sometimes I'm not very good at explaining myself.
Anyway, I have a few more stories that I'll share at a later date...like the latest one that happened today involving sneezing ketchup!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
A Letter to the Weather
Dear Old Man Winter,
It's predicted that you're planning a visit to Arkansas this weekend, bringing with you "Snow", "Sleet" and "Ice".
While I'm not very excited about your visit, I am glad you'll only be here one night! So, pack light, Mr. Winter because YOU'RE. NOT. WELCOME. IN. THESE. PARTS.
So, if you have to come, I have a few requests I'd like you to consider.
Be gentle! The more we see of "Snow", "Sleet" & "Ice", the more I have to work. You see, Mr. Winter, I don't have a "regular" job. I work in TV, so if the weather gets crazy, I can't just stay home watching movies in my PJ's...NO, I have to go to work! On the upside, I won't be alone...if it's bad enough for me to go in, then it's bad enough for Matt to have to go in too.
Get in & Get out! I don't think I really have to explain this one. I mean who wants days & days of ice? Snow...that's a different story. You can get around in snow, but ice...the city will shut down!
For my dog's intestinal sanity, skip over my backyard! I can't go through another 4 days of my dog whining when I take her outside to do her business. This past weekend, when it rained for 4 days, was a nightmare for her & for me. She had no trouble peeing because she is SUPER FAST, but pooping...well, I don't think she pooped for 2 days. Then, when she finally did, lemme tell you, it wasn't pretty! I can't go through that again.
Have a good trip, but don't expect anyone to be there when you cross over into Arkansas!
Yours Truly,
Warm-Weather Lover
It's predicted that you're planning a visit to Arkansas this weekend, bringing with you "Snow", "Sleet" and "Ice".
While I'm not very excited about your visit, I am glad you'll only be here one night! So, pack light, Mr. Winter because YOU'RE. NOT. WELCOME. IN. THESE. PARTS.
So, if you have to come, I have a few requests I'd like you to consider.
Be gentle! The more we see of "Snow", "Sleet" & "Ice", the more I have to work. You see, Mr. Winter, I don't have a "regular" job. I work in TV, so if the weather gets crazy, I can't just stay home watching movies in my PJ's...NO, I have to go to work! On the upside, I won't be alone...if it's bad enough for me to go in, then it's bad enough for Matt to have to go in too.
Get in & Get out! I don't think I really have to explain this one. I mean who wants days & days of ice? Snow...that's a different story. You can get around in snow, but ice...the city will shut down!
For my dog's intestinal sanity, skip over my backyard! I can't go through another 4 days of my dog whining when I take her outside to do her business. This past weekend, when it rained for 4 days, was a nightmare for her & for me. She had no trouble peeing because she is SUPER FAST, but pooping...well, I don't think she pooped for 2 days. Then, when she finally did, lemme tell you, it wasn't pretty! I can't go through that again.
Have a good trip, but don't expect anyone to be there when you cross over into Arkansas!
Yours Truly,
Warm-Weather Lover
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
New Note Cards
Check out www.designsbyrobin.blogspot.com.
I put some new note cards on my page this morning.
Lemme know what you think!
I put some new note cards on my page this morning.
Lemme know what you think!
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Monday, January 15, 2007
Chocolate Milk
My dog is OBSESSED with Chocolate Milk.
She LOVES it!
When I get the carton out of the fridge, she starts jumping up & down. She watches me as I pour a glass & then tries to bite my pants leg as I walk away with the glass of milk.
When I finally sit down, she sits right by me & cries! I can almost hear her taste buds working. I really don't know why she loves it so much...she's never even had any!
Until tonight...
I gave in & let her have some (like not even a tablespoon's worth). And, of course, she only wanted more. I didn't give her anymore because I don't know if chocolate milk is good for dogs.
Now, she's being a good girl...laying down right beside me & not saying a word!
Maybe chocolate milk will become my new bribe for her!
She LOVES it!
When I get the carton out of the fridge, she starts jumping up & down. She watches me as I pour a glass & then tries to bite my pants leg as I walk away with the glass of milk.
When I finally sit down, she sits right by me & cries! I can almost hear her taste buds working. I really don't know why she loves it so much...she's never even had any!
Until tonight...
I gave in & let her have some (like not even a tablespoon's worth). And, of course, she only wanted more. I didn't give her anymore because I don't know if chocolate milk is good for dogs.
Now, she's being a good girl...laying down right beside me & not saying a word!
Maybe chocolate milk will become my new bribe for her!
It's Monday: What Do You Expect?
Well, it's STILL RAINING here in Arkansas! It has been for like 3 full days. I think the MAJOR event is over, but the water in the roads could freeze overnight.
And, lemme tell you -- I DO. NOT. DO. ICY. ROADS.
If it's slick in the morning, I will ride into work with Matt. I know he thinks I'm just a big baby, but you know what? If I'm not comfortable driving in those conditions, then I shouldn't be driving! I'd be more likely to cause a wreck because I would be so nervous.
Maisy has decided that she hates the rain. Poor thing...she really does try to actually get out in the yard to go to the bathroom, but when she realizes she's getting wet, she tucks her little tail & runs back under the covered porch. Then, she comes in and shakes & rubs her back on the couch. How she learned to be so dramatic, I don't know.
Getting off the topic of rain...A big shout out goes to my friend, Greg, who ran in the Phoenix Marathon this weekend & beat his time by 20 minutes, 55 seconds. He finished in 3:56:56. I can't even run a block, much less 26.2 miles.
I also wanted to let you all know that I finished the book, "Maybe A Miracle". It was good, but it wasn't as good as I thought it was going to be. I felt let down about the way it ended.
That's about all I have to say right now. What a day!
And, lemme tell you -- I DO. NOT. DO. ICY. ROADS.
If it's slick in the morning, I will ride into work with Matt. I know he thinks I'm just a big baby, but you know what? If I'm not comfortable driving in those conditions, then I shouldn't be driving! I'd be more likely to cause a wreck because I would be so nervous.
Maisy has decided that she hates the rain. Poor thing...she really does try to actually get out in the yard to go to the bathroom, but when she realizes she's getting wet, she tucks her little tail & runs back under the covered porch. Then, she comes in and shakes & rubs her back on the couch. How she learned to be so dramatic, I don't know.
Getting off the topic of rain...A big shout out goes to my friend, Greg, who ran in the Phoenix Marathon this weekend & beat his time by 20 minutes, 55 seconds. He finished in 3:56:56. I can't even run a block, much less 26.2 miles.
I also wanted to let you all know that I finished the book, "Maybe A Miracle". It was good, but it wasn't as good as I thought it was going to be. I felt let down about the way it ended.
That's about all I have to say right now. What a day!
Saturday, January 13, 2007
This is NOT a Good Day!
You know how I know it's not a good day?
Well, first of all, some stupid telemarketer called us at 8:45am & of course, I couldn't go back to sleep.
Matt, on the other hand, was back asleep about 1 millisecond later.
The other reason I couldn't go back to sleep is because my lower right side was hurting really, really bad. I convinced myself it was appendicitis.
Then, my dog started barking because she wanted out of her bed.
I got up, only to realize it was raining...not just a little sprinkle, but a torrential downpour.
I take Maisy outside, knowing full well that she IS NOT going to pee in the rain. But, she hasn't gone all night, so she goes on a little patch of grass underneath the covered part of our back porch.
Not 5 minutes after coming back inside, she's already stir-crazy. She's walking around the house whining & looking at me like I'm supposed to make the rain go away.
On the bright side, Matt & I have been invited to a birthday party for one our co-workers tonight. That should be a good time. And, we'll probably go...unless my appendicitis gets worse!
Well, first of all, some stupid telemarketer called us at 8:45am & of course, I couldn't go back to sleep.
Matt, on the other hand, was back asleep about 1 millisecond later.
The other reason I couldn't go back to sleep is because my lower right side was hurting really, really bad. I convinced myself it was appendicitis.
Then, my dog started barking because she wanted out of her bed.
I got up, only to realize it was raining...not just a little sprinkle, but a torrential downpour.
I take Maisy outside, knowing full well that she IS NOT going to pee in the rain. But, she hasn't gone all night, so she goes on a little patch of grass underneath the covered part of our back porch.
Not 5 minutes after coming back inside, she's already stir-crazy. She's walking around the house whining & looking at me like I'm supposed to make the rain go away.
On the bright side, Matt & I have been invited to a birthday party for one our co-workers tonight. That should be a good time. And, we'll probably go...unless my appendicitis gets worse!
Friday, January 12, 2007
Randomness, Part 1
I have quite a few things to say, but instead of making several short posts, I thought I'd just "cram" it all together in 1.
E-Bay:
E-Bay:
- OK, so I realize E-Bay has been around for awhile. Matt has an account & has sold numerous items over the past couple of years. Recently, I was trying to figure out what to do with a duplicate Lenox Solitaire serving platter that I got for Christmas. I didn't think I needed 2 of the same thing, but I couldn't take it back because I didn't know where it came from, so I decided to list it on E-Bay...along with a clock that Matt & I got as an engagement present 5 years ago. And, would you believe both items sold! I made like $125 dollars! And, just in time too, because I dropped my cell phone the other day on our tile floor in the kitchen & now it has a thick blue line in the middle of the screen. The $$ I made just might buy me a new phone!
- Matt & I have recently learned that if we bribe Maisy with cheese, she'll let us trim her toenails. But, it goes a little further than that. I have to actually roll up the piece of cheese, hold in my hand, put a death grip on the dog & slowly feed her the cheese as Matt trims her nails. What's funny, though, is that this dog loves cheese so much, that as she's eating it from my hand, she snorts! Then, when we're finished with her "pedicure", she spends about 10 minutes making sure she gets EVERY. LITTLE. CRUMB. OF. CHEESE. OFF. THE. FLOOR! I tell ya'...this dog is 1 in a million!
My husband, the stubborn one:
- Why is it that men, or at least my man, can't perform a simple task? After he lets Maisy in for the last time before putting her to bed, he's gotten in this habit where he won't shut the back door all the way. I mean, he locks it...but, when I get up in the morning & let Maisy out, I barely get the door unlocked, before it opens itself. Like if he didn't lock the door at night, the first slight gust of wind would blow it right open. I have told him over & over again that when he locks the door, push it again to make sure it clicks. Apparently, that's way over his head, because he has yet to do it. So, finally I put a big note on the door that says, "Shut the door! Did you hear it click?". Even with the reminder, he's still failing miserably.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Thursday Thirteen #3
13 Things I Love about Marriage
On May 25th, Matt & I will celebrate our 5 year wedding anniversary.
We are in the beginning stages of planning our anniversary trip, so I thought it was fitting to make this "Thursday Thirteen" about marriage!
13. Plain & simple: It's fun!
12. You don't have to put on makeup if you don't want to
11. You always have someone who's on your side
10. You never tire of hearing the words, "I Love You"
9. Sharing a very deep relationship with someone special
8. Going on real fun trips together
7. Having someone to complain to (or about!) & someone to laugh with
6. Holding hands in the car or at the movies
5. Putting his needs in front of your own (& vice versa)
4. Living with your very best friend
3. The secret ways you tell each other how much you love them
2. Owning a house & a dog...& one day soon, starting a family
And, the Number 1 thing about being married...
1. The feeling of coming home
When I'm with Matt, I'm home...no matter where we are. He's my best friend, my soul mate & the only one I want to be with! When I'm not with him, my life is incomplete. I feel un-balanced. Our house isn't a home, unless we're all in it!
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Awwwww...How Cute!
Maisy Mae
How adorable is this little face? Who can resist it?
Isn't she sweet? Sleeping with her new toy.
(A sock that SHE put a hole in after grabbing it from the laundry basket & putting a death grip on it as Matt was trying to take it from her).
Hmmm...maybe she's not so sweet after all?!
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
I Know What He's Thinking!
Being together for almost 9 years, Matt & I pretty much know everything about each other & we know how each other's minds work.
Right?
So, last week Matt & I were taking down the Christmas tree (ornaments, lights, tree topper, you know the drill). Well, "someone" (I'm not naming names, but his name starts with an "M" & includes an "A" & 2 "T's") didn't shake the tree out enough before we brought into the house, so naturally, as he was taking it out of the house, needles went EVERYWHERE!
I think he was feeling bad that he got needles EVERYWHERE, so to make it up to me, he gets the broom out of the laundry closet (I didn't know he knew that's where I kept it) & starts sweeping up the needles on the kitchen floor. And, that sparks the following conversation.
Me: "Oh, thank you honey! I didn't know you knew how to do that!". (Okay, so I was half serious, half joking).
Matt: "Sure, no problem, sweet pea!"
It's at this point that he actually realizes he's doing something that resembles "housework" & his mind starts working overtime. See, he knows that because I see him doing this, that there's a big possibility that I'll ask him to do it again. So, then he has to cover his butt.
Matt: "Oh, well, this really doesn't count. You see, I sweep the back porch after I mow the grass, so this is kind of like doing yard work."
Me: "Oh, I see."
I know him so well that I know what he's really trying to tell me is that he realizes he shouldn't have shown me that he not only knows where I keep the "inside" broom, but also that he knows how to use it...I mean, you know, inside the house. So, his next question shouldn't have surprised me.
Matt: "So, um, honey, what do I do with the needles after I put them in this little pile? Do we have like one of those things to sweep stuff into?"
Me: "Oh, you mean, like a dust pan?"
Matt: "Yeah...we like don't have one right?"
See, here he's playing dumb.
Me: "Sure we do! It's in the laundry room too!"
Matt: "Ooohhhhhh....okay."
Now, he's TOTALLY cursing himself for starting this conversation by grabbing the broom to begin with.
But, guess who's doing the sweeping from now on?
I won't name names, but it starts with an "M" & includes an "A" & 2 "T's".
Right?
So, last week Matt & I were taking down the Christmas tree (ornaments, lights, tree topper, you know the drill). Well, "someone" (I'm not naming names, but his name starts with an "M" & includes an "A" & 2 "T's") didn't shake the tree out enough before we brought into the house, so naturally, as he was taking it out of the house, needles went EVERYWHERE!
I think he was feeling bad that he got needles EVERYWHERE, so to make it up to me, he gets the broom out of the laundry closet (I didn't know he knew that's where I kept it) & starts sweeping up the needles on the kitchen floor. And, that sparks the following conversation.
Me: "Oh, thank you honey! I didn't know you knew how to do that!". (Okay, so I was half serious, half joking).
Matt: "Sure, no problem, sweet pea!"
It's at this point that he actually realizes he's doing something that resembles "housework" & his mind starts working overtime. See, he knows that because I see him doing this, that there's a big possibility that I'll ask him to do it again. So, then he has to cover his butt.
Matt: "Oh, well, this really doesn't count. You see, I sweep the back porch after I mow the grass, so this is kind of like doing yard work."
Me: "Oh, I see."
I know him so well that I know what he's really trying to tell me is that he realizes he shouldn't have shown me that he not only knows where I keep the "inside" broom, but also that he knows how to use it...I mean, you know, inside the house. So, his next question shouldn't have surprised me.
Matt: "So, um, honey, what do I do with the needles after I put them in this little pile? Do we have like one of those things to sweep stuff into?"
Me: "Oh, you mean, like a dust pan?"
Matt: "Yeah...we like don't have one right?"
See, here he's playing dumb.
Me: "Sure we do! It's in the laundry room too!"
Matt: "Ooohhhhhh....okay."
Now, he's TOTALLY cursing himself for starting this conversation by grabbing the broom to begin with.
But, guess who's doing the sweeping from now on?
I won't name names, but it starts with an "M" & includes an "A" & 2 "T's".
Sunday, January 07, 2007
What Drives Me Crazy!
I was at Hobby Lobby last night because scrapbook paper is still 50% off (Can I get an "Amen, Sista"?).
Anyway.
In one of the isles, a mom was looking at paper with her 3 kids. I don't know how long they'd been there, but the kids had already lost their patience with her & were running around.
Instead of trying to put them back in the cart or asking them to calm down, she just starts spanking them & telling them to "Shut Up!".
The kids are crying, she's screaming & it just wasn't a pretty picture.
So, I know I'm not a parent (yet), but I would hope that I wouldn't spank my kids repeatedly in public or tell them to "shut up". I just feel like there are other ways of getting them to behave.
Or, maybe I just don't know what I'm talking about...
Anyway.
As I was in the check out line, a young family came up behind me. The dad was carrying what looked to be about a 3 year old girl & the mom had a newborn baby in her arms.
The line was about 5 people deep (with only one cashier) & when the dad walked up he says, "There's only one f***ing cashier?". Then he says, "Who goes to f***ing Hobby Lobby on a Saturday night?". I thought to myself, "Well, you do".
I just couldn't believe he was saying that while holding his 3 year old daughter!
Again, maybe I don't know anything about parenting (yet), but I just don't see how making the "F" word a part of your everyday conversation is a good parenting technique.
That's what drives me crazy!
Anyway.
In one of the isles, a mom was looking at paper with her 3 kids. I don't know how long they'd been there, but the kids had already lost their patience with her & were running around.
Instead of trying to put them back in the cart or asking them to calm down, she just starts spanking them & telling them to "Shut Up!".
The kids are crying, she's screaming & it just wasn't a pretty picture.
So, I know I'm not a parent (yet), but I would hope that I wouldn't spank my kids repeatedly in public or tell them to "shut up". I just feel like there are other ways of getting them to behave.
Or, maybe I just don't know what I'm talking about...
Anyway.
As I was in the check out line, a young family came up behind me. The dad was carrying what looked to be about a 3 year old girl & the mom had a newborn baby in her arms.
The line was about 5 people deep (with only one cashier) & when the dad walked up he says, "There's only one f***ing cashier?". Then he says, "Who goes to f***ing Hobby Lobby on a Saturday night?". I thought to myself, "Well, you do".
I just couldn't believe he was saying that while holding his 3 year old daughter!
Again, maybe I don't know anything about parenting (yet), but I just don't see how making the "F" word a part of your everyday conversation is a good parenting technique.
That's what drives me crazy!
Saturday, January 06, 2007
I'm Up & Running
I finally put some of my notecards up for sale on Etsy.
Go to www.etsy.com & under the Categories icon, click on "paper goods". My cards should come up. Or you can search under seller: username & type in "thescrapper". My store will come up.
Take a look at what I've posted so far & check back for Valentine Notecards soon!
Go to www.etsy.com & under the Categories icon, click on "paper goods". My cards should come up. Or you can search under seller: username & type in "thescrapper". My store will come up.
Take a look at what I've posted so far & check back for Valentine Notecards soon!
A Night Out!
Matt & I went to our company holiday party last night...yes, holiday party.
Anyway.
Afterwards, a bunch of us from work went to a piano bar. It's a 2-story bar, where downstairs is the actual piano bar & upstairs is a big room with couches, chairs, a bar & a DJ. We sat downstairs for awhile, but when more people showed up, we moved upstairs where we had more room.
It was a lot of fun dancing, talking, drinking & eating some kick-ass pizza from a bar next door.
Here are a few pictures I took last night.
Anyway.
Afterwards, a bunch of us from work went to a piano bar. It's a 2-story bar, where downstairs is the actual piano bar & upstairs is a big room with couches, chairs, a bar & a DJ. We sat downstairs for awhile, but when more people showed up, we moved upstairs where we had more room.
It was a lot of fun dancing, talking, drinking & eating some kick-ass pizza from a bar next door.
Here are a few pictures I took last night.
Matt & me having fun
Laurie & Annette
Are we driving a car?
Jessica, Susan & Me
Susan, Melissa & Jeff
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
What's Wrong with this Picture?
Just forget for a second that Matt is lying in bed at 9:30pm. That's not what's wrong here. (Maybe it's a little strange, but it's not what I'm trying to point out).
See, the area next to Matt?
Well, that's MY spot. That's MY pillow where I lay my head every night & go to sleep. That's MY bedside table with MY books & MY alarm clock.
But, do you know what I found in MY spot?
MY DOG!
Maisy loves Matt. Wherever he goes, she goes.
Apparently she doesn't care one bit that she's in MY spot. Where am I supposed to sleep?
On the floor?
On the couch?
The guest bed?
I. DON'T. THINK. SO.
We'll put her in HER bed when it's time for all of us to go to sleep.
But, don't you just love the look she's giving me here?
It's like she's saying, "Um, so hey, you think you could stop sticking that stupid camera in my face? Really. Can't you see I'm sleeping here?".
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Check Me Out!
I set up a new blog a few days ago, showing off my personalized notecards. If you haven't seen it, check it out on the link to the left.
Today I was introduced to another website...where people can buy & sell all things handmade. It's called www.etsy.com. I set up my own shop called "Designs By Robin".
I haven't listed anything to sell yet, but I'll you know when I do. In order to access my stuff, I think you have to type in "TheScrapper".
I'm still learning about it, but I hope it'll be successful for me! I'll keep you up to date on how to view my stuff...and hopefully, YOU'LL BUY SOMETHING!!!
Today I was introduced to another website...where people can buy & sell all things handmade. It's called www.etsy.com. I set up my own shop called "Designs By Robin".
I haven't listed anything to sell yet, but I'll you know when I do. In order to access my stuff, I think you have to type in "TheScrapper".
I'm still learning about it, but I hope it'll be successful for me! I'll keep you up to date on how to view my stuff...and hopefully, YOU'LL BUY SOMETHING!!!
Monday, January 01, 2007
Maybe A Miracle: Maybe a Really Good Book
I am a major book lover. I can't fall asleep at night without reading AT LEAST a chapter or two of whatever book I'm currently reading.
The other day, I bought this book, "Maybe a Miracle" & I can't put it down.
It's written by a male author & one of the main characters is an 18 year old boy, who saves his sister's life, after finding her floating face down in the swimming pool.
The way the author writes really captures the emotions the family is going through while waiting to find out what's going to happen to the little girl.
I'm only on page 69 of the 351 page book, so I'll let you know what I think when I finish it.
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