Killing time...

So I am going to have a big blog post to talk about my death-defying adventure this past weekend... but before I gather the mental strength to jot it all down, here is a bit of fun I stole from Dawn to distract myself a bit!

1. Started your own blog - affirmative.

2. Slept under the stars - a few times. I enjoy camping - but that usually involves a tent. The weekend the hottie and I started dating involved sleeping on a tarp, under the stars.

3. Played in a band - As long as we are counting grammar & high school

4. Visited Hawaii - It is on my list, but not yet.

5. Watched a meteor shower - Si - a few different times. Almost every summer I'll get up for at least the Geminids.

6. Given more than you can afford to charity - Si. I attended a benefit dinner for The Pettit Family Foundation, and had to charge the donation because I really did not have it. But it was a fun event for a great charity. I don't regret it.

7. Been to Disney World - another si. Twice even.

8. Climbed a mountain - heh... good timing. Yes, I literally CLIMBED (not hiked) a mountain this weekend. I've hiked a handful of others as well.

9. Held a praying mantis - Negative. I have seen a few, but never held. I would think that holding one might not be the smartest, considering that they are endangered and the oils on our fingers may damage them.

10. Sang a solo - Don't think so.

11. Bungee jumped - Four times now.

12. Visited Paris - no, but I would like to.

13. Watched a lightning storm -- sure. It's hard not to when one is going on.

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch - Don't think so... does scrapbooking count? I never took lessons or really read magazines for inspiration, I just did it.

15. Adopted a child - Negative. Me + kids = highly unlikely

16. Had food poisoning - sure.

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty - Negative.

18. Grown your own vegetables - if herbs and flowers count, yes. If straight up 'vegetables' - no.

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France - Nope. It's in Paris, and I have never been to Paris. Shouldn't this answer be a given considering #12?

20. Slept on an overnight train - Negative. But I have taken shorter trips via train (under 5 hours)

21. Had a pillow fight - Sure... we've all been kids at somepoint.

22. Hitch hiked - Negative.

23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill - um.... today? lol I like to refer to these as "mental health days" - but then again, where I work time off is just time off.

24. Built a snow fort - Yes! When I was a kid the neighbor next door used to plow the drive way and push all the snow into our backyard. I loved making forts out of that monsterous mound.

25. Held a lamb - no, but I ate one. Does that count? lol

26. Gone skinny dipping - sure!

27. Run a Marathon - No. I've tried to become a runner so many times. I just do not have it in me. I can't run a mile straight, nvermind 26!

28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice - Si. And the gondolier was hot.

29. Seen a total eclipse - Si. Got into a huge fight with a friend / former friend during one.

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset - Both. Many times - but the number of sunsets far out numbers the sun rises.

31. Hit a home run - Si. Eigth grade, hit the first home run of our first girls softball team and drove in the first runs. I rock.

32. Been on a cruise - negative. But I think I would like to. Only thing that scares me is the fact that I am a compulsive eater. It takes me a lot of work and a lot of discipline to not binge eat all the time. I'm afraid I would come back weighing 4000 pounds.

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person - Si - but only from the Canadian side - a few times.

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors - Meaning Poland or Germany? Negative. Unless changing planes in Germany, twice, counts.

35. Seen an Amish community - si. hard to go anywhere in Pennsylvania without stumbling over one. Even camped in a Mennonite campground. How many of you even know the difference between Amish and Mennonites? I'll bet some think they've seen Amish and they really are Mennonites :P

36. Taught yourself a new language - well, kinda. I taught myself some basic Italian before I traveled to Italy. I didn't want to be that rude assuming American.

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied - heh - not really. I do not want for food or roof - but I want to be debt free. Is anyone ever truly happy with their financial situation?

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person - Si. Did not have time to climb it. Its must prettier in person then you'd think.

39. Gone rock climbing - heh... wasn't planning on it... but I had MANY hours of it this past weekend (more teasers to my blog post to come)

40. Seen Michelangelo’s David - Si. But I saw some lesser known, and more impressive statues he carved around the same time, and was able to get MUCH closer and not have to fight crowds at the Academia.

41. Sung karaoke - si. It's called being young, drunk, stupid and spending too much of your 20s in a kareoke bar. lol

42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt - No, but I've seen bigger, more regular and lesser known in Rotorura New Zealand.

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant - Nope.

44. Visited Africa - Nope, but on my list.

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight - Si - on Cape Cod a few times.

46. Been transported in an ambulance - not yet, luckily. but with some of the stupid stuff I do - i am sure it will happen at some point. lol

47. Had your portrait painted - negative.

48. Gone deep sea fishing - Nah. Not interested.

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris - I refer you back to Number 12... along with 19. Duh.

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling - no, but I would *love* to do both.

52. Kissed in the rain - yes :)

53. Played in the mud - it's called Oozeball!!!

54. Gone to a drive-in theater - many times. Great to heckle bad movies.

55. Been in a movie - negative.

56. Visited the Great Wall of China - negative, but i am sure you can guess - its on my list!

57. Started a business - sorta. It was for a few years and I stopped when i got enough out of it for me.

58. Taken a martial arts class - Took a self defense class once. But I'd like to take more. maybe in the winter when its too cold to cycle.

59. Visited Russia - Would LOVE to! I've dreamed of seeing the Kremlin and St Peter's Square in person.

60. Served at a soup kitchen - Negative.

61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies - Si - when I was a brownie in a former lifetime.

62. Gone whale watching - nope. Been interested to, but never did it.

63. Got flowers for no reason - yes - not many times, but they have happened.

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma - Regularly. I have one of the more rate blood types, so I do what I can to help people out.

65. Gone sky diving - no but I really really really want to.

66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp - negative, but I will some day.

67. Bounced a check - too many to count. Luckily I am much older and wiser these days. It's probably been about 5 years since the last one. Maybe even longer.

68. Flown in a helicopter - si, twice. Both in New Zealand. Once was a ride around the Remarkables in Queenstown the other was around Fox Glacer.

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy - Sure. Got a few, Mom & Dad have even more of them.

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial - a number of times. But its more fun to take obnoxious pics with the Washington Monument.

71. Eaten Caviar - yea, but it was a small amount and I don't really recall it. Would like to try again.

72. Pieced a quilt - no thanks - no interest either.

73. Stood in Times Square - too many times to count!

74. Toured the Everglades - nope, but I'd like to see sometime.

75. Been fired from a job - yep. Just once.

76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London - yep, but I was a bit young to appreciate.

77. Broken a bone - not yet!

78. Been a passenger on a motorcycle - twice. It's pretty cool, as long as I trust the person I am riding with.

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person - Only from a plane. I would like to visit it sometime, go camping and hiking down there too.

80. Published a book - Meh. No, no interest either.

81. Visited the Vatican - yep. What an amazing place to see.

82. Bought a brand new car - twice even.

83. Walked in Jerusalem - Negative. I'd love to go there, but I doubt I ever will. I think I would be to nervous to be able to enjoy it.

84. Had your picture in the newspaper - a few times, and most recently last week :)

85. Kissed a stranger at midnight on New Year’s Eve - si!

86. Visited the White House - Saw it from the outside a few times.

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating - negative. No interest in doing that either.

88. Had chickenpox - yes, but I was really really really young. I have no memory of it.

89. Saved someone’s life - Don't think so.

90. Sat on a jury - negative. Been called for duty, but not needed.

91. Met someone famous - I've had a few brushes with celebrities, but the only "conversation" was held with Lisa Loeb.

92. Joined a book club - nah. I don't read nearly enough. Don't want to be forced to either.

93. Got a tattoo - no, but the idea is forming....

94. Had a baby - negative, and highly doubt it will ever happen. Just no interest there.

95. Seen the Alamo in person - No, but it might be cool.

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake - No, too many Mormons. lol Just kidding. Never been to Utah.

97. Been involved in a law suit - Nope.

98. Owned a cell phone - a few over 10 years now.

99. Been stung by a bee - never. ever. and they scare me. lol

2009 in Review

So a few bloggie friends have posted this little year in review meme, and I thought it would be a great way to summarize and wrap up 2009.

1. What did you do in 2009 that you have never done before? Bungy Jumped (3x!)

2. Did you keep your New Year's resolutions and will you make more for 2010? I do not make resolutions. I firmly believe that if I want to make a change, I can do it any day, at any time. I don't need the calender to reset to change anything.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth in 2009? Yes, two good friends, Sarah and April both had babies in 2009... along with many other acquaintances.

4. Did anyone close to you die in 2009? Yes, my Grandfather.

5. What countries did you visit this year? New Zealand and Australia!

6. What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009? more self-discipline when it comes to exercising and my finances.

7. What date from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? Right now, I am going to say New Years Eve. It was a great night with many good friends, but the thing that makes me very happy is that over the course of the night I was able to see HOW far I've come along. I had someone by my side, but it was different, in a very good way. I did not have to entertain him nor remain by his side - like I have with past relationships. He was able to make friends and really fit in with my friends. I did not stay glued to his side because I feared that he would forget about me, or not pay attention to me. Lastly, I was able to just be ME the entire night. I did not act how I thought I should act... I was just ME. I was able to sing bad karaoke and play beer pong and not worry about what he was thinking of me. This is HUGE personal growth, and I realized it that night. Who knows how things will go because this is still fairly new... but I can say that I have sure come a LONG way from even just a few months ago. at one point I was able to sit back and think about how much I have changed for the better and healed some long-standing wounds, and smile over the nights happenings.

8. What was your biggest struggle in 2009? To like myself again, and be comfortable in my own shoes.

9. Did you suffer any illness or injury in 2009? Was sick for about 7 weeks... and I still have an occasional cough.

10. What was the best thing you bought this year? My greatest trip... so far.

11. Whose behavior merited celebration? I am going to toot my own horn here more, because this is my blog and I can :) - but I am going to say ME! I really have changed, a lot, this year. All these changes are positive and are helping me shape and define myself. Yea ME!

12. Whose behavior disappointed you? the two men that I dated earlier in 2009. Both of them did things that really disappointed me, and I just will never see either of them the same.

13. Where did most of your money go? New Zealand and Sydney!

14. What did you get really really excited about this year? Seeing my friends and family after the long trip. Yea, I am finally a grown up where presents weren't the first on my list :p

15. What song will always remind you of 2009? "Let it Rock" by Kevin Rudolf... what I refer to as my 'Nevis Song' - more to come on that when I get to my Queenstown NZ stories!!!

16. Compared to this time last year, are you: much happier, much nicer or richer? Two out of three. I am greatly happier and a *tad* richer... or maybe I should say a little less in debt? I was always nice, so I don't think I am any nicer this year. Maybe biotches. lol

17. What do you wish you had done more of? Believe it or not, more pics in NZ. I have over 1000 and I seem to keep coming across things I wish I had taken pics of. Oh well - just have to go back one day :)

18. What do you wish you had done less of? eat. lol

19. Did you fall in love in 2009? Nah... dabbled in lust disguised as love. But don't think it was love. Not in 2009 that is.

20. What was your favorite TV Program in 2009? Conan. I am so glad that he's on the tonight show. My other favorites were favorites prior to 2009, so they don't count.

21. What was the best book you read this year? Eat, Love, Pray. This book hit home way to hard for me... I'm sure it did for a lot of people - no, I am not newly divorced and blah blah blah... but those feelings she had and what she did to overcome them and find herself... wow. yea, good book.

22. What was your greatest musical discovery this past year? Discovery? Don't think I have one.

23. What did you want and get? in 2009? I wanted to take a trip and I did.

24. What was the best movie you saw this year? oh, another tough one. I'm going to have to say it's a tie between HP6 (because I so love Harry anyway) and Avatar. Really, Avatar was one of the most amazing movies I've seen in my entire life.

25. What did you do on your birthday and how old did you turn? I got some friends together for drinks at my place, then dinner (with crazy hats) at East Side (a local German beer-hall styled restaurant) then went out to a bar to check out a band. Good times, good times. Oh, and I turned 33.

26. What one thing would have made your year more satisfying? I don't think anything. If something really bothers me and must be corrected, I do what I need to do in order to get it done. Everything that may or may not have happened in my life was for a reason and helped shape who i am.

27. How would you describe your personal fashion statement this year? Me.

28. What kept you sane this year? My therapist (while I was seeing her), my friends, my cat and my trip.

29. What celebrity did you fancy the most? Zachary Quinto (Sylar, on Heroes) and The Edge from U2.

30. Who did you miss this past year? A very dear friend who lives in DC.

31. Who were the best new people you met this year? My Aussie and Kiwi friends!!!!

32. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned this year: I've got to be me :)

PROOF!

here is proof! I am FABULOUS!!!!

I know, the award (and corresponding meme) say that my blog is fabulous... but I take that as meaning that I am fabulous too!

BTW- thanks Jessi!!!!

The requirements for this award are to post the award on my blog (done!), linking it to the presenter (done - up there!). Next, I must list my 5 (yes, only 5) biggest obsessions (starting... now).

...this one is kinda easy for someone who tends to be a bit obsessive (and anal) in nature! lol

1. working out. If you can't tell by the constant updates of my daily mile widget, or my face book status, heck even my tweets... you may see that I am often working out a few times a day. I am obsessed with getting smaller, tighter, and stronger.
2. diet. This one has been a regular obsession since I was 10. Yes, you said that, 10. When I was 10 I was told that my cholesterol was a little high and that I was overweight (didn't need a dr to tell me that second one - I heard it enough on the school bus!) Anyway, that day my parents switched me to skim milk and it all began. My obsession with nutrition, fitness, calorie counting and all that.
3. my kitten. Mr Papillion le Mew - I talk with him and play with him almost all day, every day. I am often wrestling him off my computers, pulling him off my arm, getting him out from underfoot - but I love it - scars and all!
4. Jeeps. I've always wanted a Wrangler, but never thought it practical. Now that the Unlimited has been released I am so there. You may have seen pics in previous posts - but I am truly obsessed. I stop in my tracks whenever I see them and have seriously contemplated (on multiple times) following people and asking them what they think of theirs. I SO need to test drive one asap.
5. my budget. I open up my budget DAILY and match it up to my bank account and credit card. I am always playing... tweaking the numbers. Now I am making a game of it, but trying to reach certain numbers by certain dates. I may be a dork - but it's working!
   

Nichole just posted this award / meme. I thought it could be fun letting the world see me sans makeup and counting the minutes to leaving work for the last time in 2008.

So here are the rules to the meme-award! I too will not pick on anyone to play along, join in the fun if you wish. If not, eh, poop on you! lol

Rules:

1. Take a picture of yourself... NOW!
2. Don't change your clothes, don't fix your hair... just take a picture.
3. Post that picture with NO editing.
4. Post these instructions with your picture.
5. Tag 10 people to play along.

Why THAT is where my luggage went! Like the ugly buttons on my coat? I SO need to replace those buttons. Ah, n0thing complements the complexion like florescent lights and beige cubicles!

Karianne had a fun meme on her blog today. I decided to play along. It’s been far to long since I have played…

• Ever been out of the US? Yes, most recently was Italy in 2006, but prior to that some locations I’ve been to are Canada, England, Scotland and The Bahamas. Next will probably be Greece, but Croatia is sounding pretty darned cool right now.
• When Men wear socks with shorts, should they be pulled up or scrunched down? Down.*so* down.
• Xmas tree...real or fake? I GREATLY prefer real, but its not realistic for where I am in my life right now.
• Any Tattoos? Nope. But what about right above the pelvic bone, a present wrapped in a pretty glittery bow? :)
• How many miles to you drive to work? Mmmm, maybe 10?
• What is your middle name? Laura. No significance to it.
• Bathroom-do you "go" with the door open when someone else is home? Door open when no one is home. That is because the kitten freaks out when I close it. That IS his room by the way. lol
• Toilet paper-over hang or under hang? I prefer under, but I occasionally put it over to change things up. Yea, I’m wild, aren’t I??? lol
• When wet..do you comb your hair or brush your hair? Brush.
• Favorite weekend outfit. My comfy brown outfit. Its fuzzy and warm.

Per Julie's Request...

Three random things about me…

1. My first pet was a hamster named Squeaky. He was a brown and white teddy bear hamster. I loved how his little nails felt across my skin. Unfortunately my aunt accidentally left him in her car and he died. The funny thing is that my Mom told me that my Maternal Grandmother killed him. I only learned about 10 years ago that it was actually my aunt!
2. I have two scars on my right foot. I had a wart removed when I was a kid. About a year later I went back to the same doctor for another wart. He saw the big scar on my toe and asked me how I got it. I told him it was the scar from when I had a wart removed. He told me “oh, it looks like they didn’t do a good job.” I reminded him by saying “you did it.” I don’t think he talked to me for the rest of the procedure.
3. I had to wear a cast from just under my armpits to the top of my pelvis for about two months. I had bad scoliosis and a slipped vertebrae growing up. The purpose of the cast was to help straighten my back out right away, and I was going to be in a back brace afterwards. After two months I grew so much and the cast helped me correct my back that I never needed to get the brace… but I still have the slipped vertebrae.

I made a promise, and although I was tempted by laziness, I held up my end of the deal.

Fifteen years

This meme is: 15 Years in a Nutshell. Think back on the last 15 years of your life. What would you tell someone that you hadn’t seen or talked to for 15 years? How would you sum up your life? You get 10 bullet points. A list of 10 things to summarize you. At the end of your list, tag 5 more people and send on the love.

It sure sounds like a long time, but thinking back – it seems like both a million years away and just last week…

Fifteen years ago was mid-July 1993. How ironic. I was in England early July 1993, and here it is fifteen years later and I was supposed to be coming home from England today. Anyway, I just got back from England and I am SURE that the first thing I did was call my boyfriends at the time. We’d been dating for around 9-10 months at this time and I was miserable in England because all I wanted to do was spend my summer with him. Yea, sappy puppy love. Anyway, I was chunky and unhappy with myself – but my friends meant the world to me. Before we new it, Senior year was upon us. I have a lot of memories that I would like to forget from my Senior year. A lot of anger, frustration, hurt, confusion and most of all drama. I freaking hate drama. I began looking at colleges with my parents and all I wanted to do was go away because I didn’t want to be part of the life I was currently living. I wanted to go away and change a lot of things about me. I had some sessions where I battled depression and anxiety, and lost a LOT of weight… but DAMN did I look good! Lol

Although I was set on going away for college, I chickened out at the last minute. I decided to go to UConn, which was my “safety school.” Although I wanted to leave my past from high school behind me, I was still scared to go out and start over.

Fall of 1994 was awesome. I had a blast in the UCMB. I made a ton of new friends, had a lot of great experiences… had a few (trillion) more heartbreaks and didn’t go to class all too much. That eventually caught up with me. My second semester I pledged Kappa Kappa Psi and of course attended even less classes – that caught up with me and I was placed on academic probation the next semester. I was involved with someone for a few months, who I eventually left for someone else.

1995-1996 whirled by quickly. In the summer of 1996 is when I met the first big love of my life, Ted. Ted and I met at UConn, shortly before he graduated. We started dating over the summer and quickly became serious. I remember him shouting, “I love this girl!” to my friends one New Years Eve, just after he said it to me for the first time. Unfortunately Ted was much older and had some internal drama himself and just after my 21^st birthday he broke up with me. I don’t think I ever really gave men the same chances that he had – meaning that the next 10 years would pretty much be a string of meaningless relationships where I did not get serious with anyone.

I failed out of UConn in the spring of 1998. I was crushed. All those years of not going to classes finally caught up with me. I returned to my former place of employment and because the owner had issues with my mother, I was not re-hired. My mother worked for this small company for many years and I learned everything that she did by the age of 16. When she became sick, I would often back-fill her job for her. I then had to look for some form of income. I decided to get a part-time job at a local liquor store.

1998-2000 I pretty much did nothing responsible. I went out a lot. I drank a lot. I put weight back on and was miserable with my appearance again. I fought with my parents all of the time. I was miserable overall.

In early 2000 I was hired as a customer service representative in a call center for one of the local insurance companies. I was THILLED to be making $22,000! I was shocked and so proud of myself for getting this job and getting a salary like this! Yes, I was quite naïve! Lol

The next few years were a lot of the same. I worked hard, played hard then began going to school again. I knew that I needed to complete my bachelors. I just HAD to. I was determined to do this the right way. I began looking into local schools and ultimately chose Saint Joseph College. I started weight watchers and lost 60 pounds. I was even a runner-up for a modeling / weight loss contest for First magazine!

I worked full time, went to school full time and played even harder. Every weekend I was out at clubs or bars. Dancing, visiting friends… continuing the endless stream of hookups and lack of serious relationships.

I completed my BA in spring of 2004 and immediately looked into grad school. I became interested in perusing a PhD. I applied to many schools and ultimately was rejected by each program. Although I had a lot of potential, I had not biology behind me and I was looking into Cognitive Psychology programs – and those do require some bio behind them.

One school had me as their number two choice. I went back to them to get more feedback and to learn how can I get accepted in the future. This is why and when I then started taking classes towards a MS in Biomedical Sciences. I did very well, unfortunately I did not feel comfortable there. I got along better with the teachers then I did with the students. I was older then the rest of the students and just not really into the partying anymore… oh, and the weight started to slowly find me again.

That brings us up to 2006. I was bored at work. Just made the decision to leave school and was clueless. I knew that I wanted to have a nice, stable future in front of me. A nice home, the ability to travel. This got me thinking and planning. I first planned a trip to Italy! I went on a tour, but was by myself. I was randomly assigned a roommate who was quite nice and away I went!

When I got back from Italy I began scouring for new jobs. At this point I had been with the company for six years and was on my 5 job (well, 4 because one was a promotion.) I needed a change, but had no intentions to leave the company. That was when I was offered a great role n the company’s world headquarters. I knew that this role was going to be out of my comfort zone and demanding a lot of hours and energy from me. It was great. Plus I was excited about the raise as well!

One month into the new job and I got mono. I was house bound for the better part of two weeks. Not the best way to start off. Two months later I lost my beloved kitty, Prancer. He was just over 18 years old and had a long and healthy life. A few months after that I had the first large loss of my life; I lost my Paternal Grandmother. The day of the funeral I came home and decided to open an account with eHarmony. I emailed a few guys, but one guy in the IT industry particularly drew my attention. He was smart, but not cocky – that has been a rarity in my experience. He was eager and energetic about life. He was interested in meeting someone who would want to travel. We set up a lunch date.

Our lunch date was on Friday March 30^th. I remember being a little excited. I remember sending Nichole text messages as I walked to the restaurant. We had a pleasant conversation over lunch and made tentative plans to see either Sunday night. Saturday morning he called me and asked me to meet for lunch. Again we had a great time and planned to have an ‘official’ date Sunday night. Before we knew it, we were in a relationship. I believe we barely went a day without seeing each other – even if it was just to meet up for lunch. The next thing I was helping him pick out furniture for the apartment he rented one town over. Three months later I moved and you can read the rest by clicking on the link Daniel below. Lol I think you all pretty much already know how that turned out.

So now here I am. In my own apartment for the first time in my life. I have a kitten who drives me nuts, but I already adore. Full of cuts and scars from my relationship with Daniel. Wondering what the future has in store for me.

Heh – I never said I was a good writer. Hopefully I didn’t bore you all to death on stuff you probably already knew.

so.... if you want any clarification or if I didn't make sence feel free to ask questions. I'm not shy on here..

I snagged this survey from Nichole… which reminds me that I have to get my butt in gear. I promised April that I would respond to her tag this weekend.

Anyway, on to the first one…

1. What is in the back seat of your car right now? Well, considering the fact that I am in my living room, I can’t see it. So I am going to guess a bit. There is a sun shade, unfolded, possibly an empty cup on the floor and my gym bag.

2. When was the last time you threw up? It was right about HERE. lol

3. What's your favorite curse word? I’m not a big swearer… but I like to make ones up, or turn a new twist one one. My favorite right now I think is “cock-knocker”

4. Name three people who made you smile today? Julie, Emily and Papillion le Mew.

5. What were you doing at 8am this morning? Awaking from my slumber.

6. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? Chatting with Julie.

7. What will you be doing three hours from now? Hopefully sleeping.

8. Have you ever been to a strip club? Yea, too many to count! Lol At least it’s been a few years since I have gone to one.

9. What is the last thing you said aloud? “meow” as I was holding Papillion and making him wave good bye to Julie.

10. What is the best ice cream flavor? Today I say cookie dough. I may have a different answer tomorrow. I’m good and indecisive like that.

11. What was the last thing you had to drink? Whole Foods brand “Italian Sparkling Water” it’s like generic pellegrino.

13. What was the last thing you ate? A piece of pita with “Spicy Armenian Salad” in it. Another yummy find from Whole Foods.

14. Have you bought any new clothing items this week? Well… what do you mean by “bought?” lol I did order a few things from Chadwick’s – but on line shopping does not count in my opinion! lol

15. When was the last time you ran? Umm… probably a month ago, maybe even longer. I really don’t care for running.

16. What's the last sporting event you watched? In person? Yikes… It’s been long. Does kids running in a park or jumping on a bounce house count?

18. Who is the last person you emailed? I’m abstaining from this question.

19. Ever go camping? Yes! I love camping, but do not do it nearly enough. The last time was with Daniel. We spent two nights with Melissa and Gene and their clan.

20. Do you have a tan? A little color on my arms and chest… but not really. But I do get color quite easily. I have no clue how or when that started happening…

24 (?). Do you drink your soda from a straw? Only fountain sodas. If from a can, bottle or glass – then no.

25. What did your last IM say? I think it was “Sometimes I’m idle like that” or something to that effect. I can’t remember quite exactly.

26. Are you someone's best friend? I believe I am blessed to say I am the best friend of a few soles. Please don’t ask me to pick who mine is – too difficult of a question.

27. What are you doing tomorrow? (Hopefully) sleeping late. Washing dishes. Doing a load of laundry. Watching 1 or 2 discs of Entourage.

28. Where is your mom right now? I’m thinking she is home and in bad – but knowing my parents…. Sometimes you *never* know and they take a spontaneous over-night trip.

29. Look to your left, what do you see? A pillow / cushion from my couch and my mutilated yoga mat :( I discovered the job Papillion did on it only today.

30. What color is your watch? I don’t have it on now, but it’s silver. I bought it in Verona, Italy just over two years ago.

31. What do you think of when you think of Australia? Some blogs that I visit, kangaroos, and the Sidney Opera House... oh and the cute Aussie boys from my trip to Italy.

32. Would you consider plastic surgery? Consider, yes… follow through with…. No.

33. What is your birthstone? The pearl.

34. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive through? I don’t really do fast food asides from Panera or Subway… and those you have to go into.

35. How many kids do you want? Not so sure. Maybe one. Maybe two. I doubt three.

36. Do you have a dog? Nope.

37. Last person you talked to on the phone? Lol It was Julie as she sat next to me.

38. Have you met anyone famous? Does touching Billy Joel’s ankles count? Oh wait!!!! I met Lisa Loeb last month!!!!

39. Any plans today? It’s kinda late unless someone was calling for a booty call, and I’m just not in that kinda mood. lol

40. How many states have you lived in? Just this one itty bitty one.

41. Ever go to college? You can say so...

42. Where are you right now? Earth? In my living room, on the couch. Butt is getting kinda sore from how I am sitting.

43. Biggest annoyance in your life right now? My size. I need to get smaller. Now.

44. Last song listened to? Right now is one of the BEST SONGS EVAH!!!! Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand. Freaking LOVE this song. If it weren’t almost midnight I’d be blaring it.

46. Are you allergic to anything? Kitties. Lol Dogs too…. Ragweed, lots of wild flowers…. Mosquitoes.

47. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time? Ehh… don’t really have one. I wear my Body Glove flip flops a lot.

48. Are you jealous of anyone? Eh… there are a few right now. But no biggie

50. Is anyone jealous of you? I don’t think so… or at least if they are I’m really clueless of it.

51. What time is it? 11:42 pm

52. Do any of your friends have children? Most of them have or are trying to have. I have *very* few left that do not, and are not intending to.

53. Do you eat healthy? Pretty much so. I really try to.

54. What do you usually do during the day? During the week.,, work. Weekend WHAT EVAH I FEEL LIKE DOING!!!! :D

55. Do you hate anyone right now? No, not at all.

56. Do you use the word hello daily? Uh HELLO?!?!?!? Lol I guess I do when I answer the phone.

58. How old will you be turning on your next birthday? 33… please don’t remind me of this. I am not looking forward to that one. It’s the only one that’s freaked me out so far. I could care less hen 32 came by… but then I began thinking that every day I am getting closer to 33. Ugh. THAT scares me.

59. Have you ever been to Six Flags? I ts funny that you say that. I am going to Six Flag Great Adventure on Wednesday!!! I am SO freaking excited!!!!! Kindga Ka here I come!!!!

60. How did you get one of your scars? One from my Prancer. It’s all perforated from my hand growing ( I received a BAD scratch form him while I was a young child)

Day is done

1. Last party you went to? Julia’s 2nd Birthday Party!!!

2. Do you pee in the shower? Not regularly. I have this thing (yea, another thing) I need to completely dry off – even if I am just going to take two steps over to the toilet and back… so rather then turn off the water, dry completely, use the toilet then get back into the shower… yea I’ve done it before. But very seldom and NOT in the new place.

3. Have you ever fired a gun? Yep. My Dad owned a 22 that I’ve shot a few times. I fired something in Jess and Olivier’s back yard… it must have been a pellet gun or something… not so sure. Don’t really remember.

4. Where do you call home? Home.

5. What's your favorite board game? Monopoly, scategories and life. All good stuff… oh and Trivial Pursuit too!

...My never ending quest to be like Dawn...

You Are a Positive Person

No one would accuse you of being too negative! You're a naturally upbeat and optimistic person. Like everyone else, you come across things you can't stand every day. But unlike everyone else, you ignore what annoys you and focus on what uplifts you.

Are You Too Negative?

Friday's Feast: 193

Appetizer: Do you consider yourself to be an optimist or a pessimist? I am an optimist by far. Not only do I see the silver lining in the middle of a thunderstorm, but I recognize it’s presence and expect that things will work out for the best.

Soup: What is your favorite color of ink to write with? Of the traditional ‘ink’ colors, I would say blue or red. It depends on what I am writing and if I need things to pop out. I like them because they don’t get lost in black letters that are printed out. If we’re talking about fun colors, heck… whatever color I am in the mood to play with. Maybe I should get some fun new pens….

Salad: How often do you get a manicure or pedicure? Do you do them yourself or go to a salon and pay for them? Not nearly often enough! At one point I was getting manicures and pedicures regularly. I am thinking I might start that back up again when I transition over to my new role. My favorite nail place is right on my way home if I were to take back roads instead of the highway…..

Main Course: Have you ever won anything online? If so, what was it? I don’t think so. If I did, I can’t seem to recall.

Dessert: In which room in your house do you keep your home computer? It’s in my living room. It’s supposed to live on my bookshelf… but I use it a few times a day and was getting sick of taking it off and on the shelf. Now it’s been parked on top of a placemat on my coffee table for about a week now.

eh... just a couple days late. So sue me! lol

1. Last laugh? About 5 minutes ago. A good genuine laugh. My manager was telling me how his daughter loves laying in the driveway and they would trace her in sidewalk chalk… then his brother pointed out that it looked pretty morbid with all these outlines of children all over the driveway.

2. What do you love? Sleeping.

3. Gold or silver? It depends. I used to be solely silver, white gold and platinum – but I do like me some yellow gold from time to time.

4. Who do you hold hands with? Little ones. Most recently was Ava’s while walking into Café Del Mundo.

5. Friday fill-in: There's no time to get anything done anymore. There really isn’t.

only took me 14 years....

All ~ I'd like to introduce you to my purse.



It easily holds a lot of CRAP. I decided that it needed a cleaning today. This is everything that was inside it.
We've got some various meds, a work ID, my passport (no longer in there)...
Some lists, a mountain of recepits, cash, business card holder...
a pen, lip gloss, lip stick, TOO MANY coins...

gift cards, frequent flyer cards, credit cards, ID cards, etc...

(removed this pic - some private info was displayed)

ooohhh... look! Everything fits in there nicely.
it looks *just * like the "before" pic... but I PROMISE that it is not.
Ta-DAH!

The End

Courtesy of April….

Here are the rules:You must post the rules before you give your answers. You must list one fact about yourself for each letter of your middle name. Each fact must begin with that letter. If you don't have a middle name, just use your maiden name. After you've been tagged, you need to up-date your blog with your middle name and answers. At the end of your post, you need to tag one person for each letter of your middle name. (Be sure to leave them a comment telling them they've been tagged and need to read your blog for details).

My middle name is Laura

L – Likes to sleep, probably a bit too much for her own good.
A – Always expects good manners from people and she will return the same.
U – Upsets too easily, takes everything to heart and often feels hurt.
R – Really wants to loose weight, and is seeming to be on a better path to do it.
A – Aggravated, she is aggravated at her job and is looking around at the opportunities out there…

Sorry… I don’t like to tag, so I am skipping out on that pasrt. Play around if you choose!

Mega told us that we have to post our top five movies. I am not sure if I can humanly do that. I have the attention span of a….. oh look at that! Isn’t it pretty????

In stead of listing my top five movies of all time… I am just going to talk about 5 movies I absolutely adore, because my list is subject to change at any second.

Gone With The Wind. This movie makes my cry my eyes out every.single.time. I love the costumes, the epic story, Scarlet’s transformation from a young girl without a care to a hardened woman that will do anything, include selling herself into a marriage, to keep Tara.
Moulin Rouge! Again, the costumes… the bright colors, shiny objects! The star-crossed love story that just makes your heart weep. The amazing score where you can’t help but to just belt out each song… and another end that makes me bawl.
This I have to combine into one chunk…. The entire Star Wars saga… all six movies are wonderful and I never tire of them. My least favorite of them all was Episode I, The Phantom Menace… but other then that… I don’t think I can pick a favorite…it may be Episode III, or VI…. Its so hard to say, but I do love a good epic story, and the Star Wars sage is the epitome of that. There is action, adventure, humor and love. An all around wonderful saga.
While we’re on the topic of sagas… I’m going to have to throw in another Lucas films special…. The Indiana Jones series. I am beyond excited to see the new movie this spring. I am curious to see how the story is going to come out, but how can you not love Indiana Jones?
Here is one that I am not the most proud to admit… it’s such the guilty pleasure and the ultimate chick flick. It seems to be on every time Daniel is away and I take advantage of that….. but… The Mirror Has Two Faces. First of all, I am a bit of a Barbara Streisand fan, but this movie is great. It’s a chunky middle aged woman with no self confidence who gets involved in this plutonic relationship that results in marriage. After some heartbreak, she discovers herself and what she wants and goes out and gets it! My kinda woman! Lol

I think that if I were to expand my list to 10, it would be dramatically different. My top 5 looks like a sci-fi dork and a chick flick junkie… there are so many more things that I am interested in that just are not represented…

Silly Comedies: Dumb and Dumber, Office Space, The Cable Guy
More Chick Flicks: Bridget Jones
80s: The Goonies, The Breakfast Club
Good-Feeling Movies: Little Miss Sunshine
Gangsters: Casino, The GodFather (pt 1 and 2), Goodfellows

Oh the list could go on and on and on.
How about you? What are some of your favorites?

Keri was so good to remind me of another HUGE favorite of mine... worthy to be in the top 5.... I think I'll knock out The Mirror has Two Faces and replace it with Breakfast At Tiffany's..... LOVE LOVE LOVE that movie!

Keri tagged me. Ok, I’ll play!

6 quirks… this one is tough. As Keri elided to, not because I don’t have them… but which ones do I choose to share???

1. counting. I count everything. It does not need to be a certain number, and I often loose count but I count everything I can think of. Steps it takes me to get various places, tiles on the floor, pens on my desk, lights in my view, squares on the rug…. If I am in front of something countable for any length of time, I will count it over and over again. As an example, the run in the living room has eight squares that each contain fourteen smaller squares. I have counted this many times and will probably count it a couple dozen times tonight.
2. I look for patterns in things. I try to find out where patterns begin, where they end, how many times the pattern repeats. I must fully understand the pattern.
3. I have this weird think I do with my throat. I guess you would say that if I had an Adam’s apple, I’d be bobbing it up and down. I had this habit in college and somehow broke myself of it, but now I do it again.
4. I regularly crack 38-40 parts of my body on a regular basis. This not only includes knuckles and toes, but hips, shoulders, neck, back, ankles…. Yea I am a cracky person. Drives Daniel nuts, so I limit the cracking around him…
5. I have a passenger quirk as well. I press my toes down to the floor when there is either a guard rail or curb. I lift my toes when the curbs and / or guard rails stop. And yes… each foot represents each side of the road… so if the guard rail extends further on the left, the left toe stays down longer. In addition, I get disappointed with myself if I mess it up.
6. I’m obsessed with calorie counting, and all things diet related. Off the top of my head I can give you a ballpark idea of how many calories are in… heck, pretty much anything. I may not be exact, but I can usually get it within 50-100 calories. This includes being able to “predict” weight watchers points.
7. here is a bonus one just for you special people! I have horrible gas… not just today, but pretty much around the clock. I have to take pills to keep it civil. I ran out of medication today, therefore I have a little green cloud following me around today.

Jenera played this game today. I know I read it in a few places recently, so I figured it was my turn to play…

1. If your doctor told you TODAY that you were pregnant, what would you say? Yikes, well, I would hope that isn’t the case – but considering some of the thoughts I’ve had lately, it would not be the end of the world. In fact, I saw a women walking through the atrium with a very pregnant belly, and it made me smile.

2. When was the last time you flew in a plane? In December on a business trip to Charlotte, NC.

3. What did the last text message you sent say? “So tempting! Lol” sent to April on an offer she made me. Lol

4. What features do you find most attractive in the opposite sex? Face, eyes, hair, voice.

5. What is a goal you would like to accomplish in the near future? To successful loose 30-60 pounds this year (and keep it off for good!!!!)

6. Shoe size? 11. Yes, I know, I have freakishly large feet. lol

7. Been to Mexico? Nope. Not really sure if I want to go. Maybe Cancun someday, but I doubt it. I’m not a big tropical person. No desire to go on a cruise either.

8. When is the last time you had a massage? Too long. Luckily I have one coming up in a few weeks!

9. What was the last TV show you watched? 60 Minutes

10. What are your plans for the weekend? I’m not sure… Now that I think of it, I don’t think anything. I think we need to get moving on this!

11. If your significant other asked you to marry them TODAY what would you say? Well, I’d prefer to have a year to plan my dream wedding, or close to it… but yes. I’ll do it.

12. What is in the back seat of your car right now? A paper bag filled with stuff from Mom and Dad’s house.

13. What were you doing at 8 am this morning? Writing a very long email to Dawn and Nichole.

14. If you could marry any celebrity today who would it be? I’m all set with that. Why would I want to marry a stranger?

15. Have you ever been to a strip club? Yep… and we’ll just leave it at that.

16. What is the best ice cream flavor? Hagen dazs Dulce de leche.

17. What is the last sporting event you watched? Giants vs Green bay… only part of it. I’m really not all that into football. On the other hand its 18 days until pitchers and catchers report!

18. Ever go camping? Yep, most recently was last summer…. Which reminds me I really need to call Melissa and catch up with her.

19. Last phone call? I saw that I missed a call from Melissa yesterday… oh, I talked with Jess on Friday evening while I was grocery shopping..

20. Are you allergic to anything? Kitties, doggies, dust mites, mold, *some types* of pollen – which? You’ve got me!

21. What is one thing you have learned about life recently? Sometimes you have to put yourself and your own sanity in front of others happiness.

22. What do you do at work? Look at numbers, answer questions, tell people to do stuff, figure out how to do things better / smarter.

23. What is your mom's name? Cheryl

24. Ever cried for no reason? I loathe the fact that I am using this response…. *shudder* of course I am, I am a woman!

25. Can you do the Crank Dat dance? ?!?!?

26. What is your favorite color to wear? Any jewel tone. They all like me very well. But I wear a lot of brown. They say that brown is the new black!

27. What is the longest plane ride you have ever been on? 8 hours, JFK to Frankfurt, just to change flights and eventually get to Rome.

28. What is the longest road trip you have ever taken? A couple years ago, to go white water rafting. I drove from CT to WV…. That was a long one!

29. What are your turn-offs? People being rude and / or disrespectful.

30. What was your last alcoholic beverage? Homemade beer, last night. It was quite tastey!

31. What are you craving right now? something warm…. Cocoa? Latte? Hmmmm what do I want???

Ok, Dawn played… Nichole played… Mega started this whole thing, now I suppose it is my turn.

• How old are you? Rounding the 5 ½ month slide to 32.
• Where do you live? In my home :) lol… ok I live in lovely Farmington, Connecticut.
• Last time you listened to Billy Idol? Ummmm when he may have been on the radio last and I was in the car?
• Ever met Billy Idol? Nope. But after watching The Wedding Singer I do feel oddly closer to him.
• How do you like your taters? I like mine crispy… meaning skins, fries, hash browns…. But I also like au gratin and scalloped. Baked is pretty darned good as well. I just don’t really care for mashed. I can pass on those.
• Ever beaten someone up? Well, I have been in a fight… but I didn’t beat her up… just kinda wrapped my arm around her neck and shoulder and pulled her off someone else. Ah, those things we do when we’re (acting) young and stupid.
• Ever gotten beat up? Not physically… I’ve felt emotionally beat up before. I’ve beaten myself up emotionally…
• Do you consider yourself to be hot? Now? No. Let me get rid of about 30 pounds and my tune will change. The layer of flab does serious harm to the self esteem.
• Any tattoos? Almost did… incredibly glad I didn’t because too many girls have exactly what I thought was new and original… not so much anymore.
• Piercings? A few, nothing crazy. I used to have tons in my ears, but I’ve let them mostly grow out… or would that be grow in? Anyway, I have my navel pierced, one set in eacy earlobe and one in the cartilage of my left ear. I wonder if its time to let that guy grow out too…. Hmmmm.
• Kids? No. A few years ago I would have laughed and asked if you were planning dinner. Ok, maybe not that bad, at least I’m not a cannibal! Lol … anyway…. If it happens, it happens. I don’t have a pressing need / desire for children. I’m kinda neutral on the subject.
• How about grandparents? Any of those? I have one of each… a grandmother and a grandfather – on separate sides of the family.
• Do you shave your legs? Yeah, not as much as I used to, though. Anyone else notice a decrease in leg hair growth?
• Employed or bum? Yea, I got me a jobbie.
• Ever killed someone? Nope. Don’t really want to either.
• Ever wear stone wash jeans? Didn’t we all in the 80s?
• Worst pain you ever felt? When I was about 11 or 12 years old I was diagnosed with a migraine that lasted 5 days. It was horrific. Either that or when I injured my back when I was (ironically enough) around the same age. I had to lay flat on my back for 5-6 days until I was able to be admitted to the local children’s hospital. Every move I made, made me cry out in pain. That was not fun.
• What did you last eat? Turkey chili with black beans dressed up with a little reduced fat chaddar cheese, sour cream and chives…. Oh, and a box of milk!
• Cats and dogs...pets, or food? In this country and this culture, they are my friends. I don’t think I would be able to eat either, although I do understand and accept that people do consume them in different cultures. Just not for me.
• What about fish? I wouldn’t eat any of the fish I’ve owned…. And I wouldn’t own any fish I’ve eaten….
• What about rabbits? BUNNIES!!!! I went through this phase last fall when I kept asking Daniel if he would let me get a bunny. I think they are so soft and fuzzy, and I get so excited when I see one! But would I eat one??? I don’t know, maybe. Try me. lol
• Use the word "jabroni" in a sentence: Stop shoving things up your jambroni!
• Use one word to sum up yourself in a nutshell: help!!!!! Well, if you were trapped in a nutshell wouldn’t you say the same?!?!
• Idea you had on a date that you thought was fun but they were bored? I can’t think of one. Daniel and I have had nothing but good dates… and I am choosing to block out everything previous!
• Ever make a complete fool out of yourself? Sure, plenty of times! But the first thing that comes to my mind is when I was in first grade and the art teacher said to “yell out” if you need help…. Well…. I threw my head back and yelled “I need Heeeeeelp!”
• Ever think that "they" are out to get you? Who are they? I can’t really answer the questions until I knew who “they” are. But if you are trying to find out if I have paranoid tendencies…. Not so much. What happens in my life is a direct result of my actions. I control my own fate.

I stole this from both Bart and Dawn….

Make your own band and album!!!! I’m not as handy-on-the-fly and don’t have access to much photo editing tools….so you have to use you imagination… but let me introduce to you….

Jesús María de Leizaola Sánchez first album, entitled
Temper or your self confidence

Don’t you just love the album cover?

Anyway, here are the rules to play along:

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:RandomThe first article title on the page is the name of your band.

2. http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3The last four words of the very last quote is the title of your album.(you might have to click new random quotes at the bottom)

3. http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days/The third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover.You then take the pic and add your band nameand the album title to it, then post your pic.

Dawn shared this and I thought it was pretty cool…

TEN FIRSTS

First Best Pal: Her name is Laura, and I have a few memories of her. I don’t know her last name, or what ever happened to her…
First Hamster: and only, his name was Squeeky. Mom told me that my grandmother killed him because she thought he was a rodent, come to find out my aunt forgot to feed him and he died. I don’t know why she had him in the first place.
First Piercing: ears, I was around three
First Crush: Stephen…. Supposedly he was my boyfriend in kindergarten.
First CD: *shudders* I think it may have been New Kids on the Block…. Now if we’re talking cassettes… then Bon Jovi!!!!!!
First Car: mine? Truly mine? 1989 Jeep Cherokee that Dad gave me :)
First Love: I’m thinking the counter part to Dawn’s… Mike.
First Stuffed Animal: A teddy bear named Bosco. He was also in the movie version of Annie, so he was a popular model. I remember going to JC Penny and seeing an entire display of “Boscos” and was completely overwhelmed by it.
First Teacher: Miss Iuppa in nursery school and kindergarten.
First Watch: Mickey Mouse, with a red leather band.

NINE LASTS

Last Beverage: ice water (chomp, chomp)Last Vehicle Ride: to work
Last Movie Seen: The Breakfast Club
Last Phone Call: I left a voice mail for our Admin. I needed to get an enveloped sent overnight.
Last CD Played: I dunno. I hardly ever listen to them anymore. I suppose whatever has been sitting in my Jeep for the past few years.
Last Bubble Bath: are we talking soapy bubbles? If they don’t have to be soap, I can say in May when I was in Vegas. There was so much air bubbles in the hydrotherapy tub that it looked like bubbles! Can that count????
Last Time You Cried: a week ago
Last Person who gave you a hug: Keri, a few nights ago.
Last Time you rang your mum/dad/guardian: Talked with Mom last night

EIGHT HAVE YOU EVERS

Have you ever dated one of your best friends: no. But they became them afterwards.Have you ever been arrested: nope.
Have you ever skinny dipped: yep
Have you ever been on TV: yep. A few commercials.
Have you ever kissed someone and then regretted it: probably. Can we say my entire mid 20s? lol
Have you ever had a dream about someone you knew: of course
Have you ever been in love: absolutely
Have you ever wanted to slap/punch a friend: no, not at all. That would just be mean.

SEVEN THINGS YOU'RE WEARING

1. white shirt
2. olive skirt
3. socks
4. tall boots
5. under shirt
6. my necklace
7. my ring

SIX THINGS YOU'VE DONE TODAY (in no particular order)

1. updated a calculator with updated data.
2. rehearsed training program I ma giving next week
3. wrote this
4. put sheets into the dryer
5. organized 2 drawers in the bathroom
6. drank water

FIVE FAVORITE THINGS (in no particular order)

1. Daniel :)
2. My friends
3. traveling
4. pretty reindeer stuff
5. sleepinghmmmm...

no four...

THREE CHOICES

1. Eat or drink: yes please.
2. Blonde or brunette: brunette
3. Pink or black: yes.

TWO THINGS YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE

1. get marries (yikes)
2. own a nice home