Mrs. ZickyZou

I am now officially Mrs. ZickyZou. I haven't posted in awhile because I have been so busy getting ready. And I just changed my work schedule so I have 2 hours less at home every night. But I get to drive MissZalyssa to school every morning, so that makes it worth it.

The wedding was beautiful. Everything went as planned, and that is always good when it comes to weddings. Now I just have to go through all of the name-changing. I think I'll type up a form letter to send to the numerous credit card companies. That should save me some time.

Ok, I ordered the Zalyssa-monster pizza for dinner. It should be here any second.

A pre-nup????

So, Zicky-Zou had his bachelor party Saturday night. One of his friends from work, a thrice-married, quite jaded guy, advised Zicky-Zou that the best thing he can ever do is not get married. And if he does get married,he needs a pre-nup. Nice idea, except our net worth is negative $217,232.We have assets of about $3.68. Somehow I think if we went to lawyer and tried to get a pre-nup drawn up that listed items like three-32 ounce bottles of philosophy body lotion, a bic razor, and half a bottle of hairspray we'd be laughed out of his office.

I have lots of money invested in hair and body care products that will probably be gone in 5 years when we get divorced. And I would guess the value of ZickyZou's X-Box decreases daily. Somehow I don't see us fighting over empty bottles and used video games. The only joint purchase we have is a $77 tv we got on clearance when we pooled out Christmas money from his grandma. And since it was his grandma, he can have the tv if it still works in 5 years.We are not the type of people that pre-nups were designed for. Plus, I make more money. Shouldn't I be insisting on a pre-nup to protect my Coach and Dooney collection? Maybe the judge will award him alimony of $1.72 a month.

Ok, enough about divorce. We are not even married yet. Two weeks! Seems rather surreal.My bachlorette party was great, except the toy party lady never showed up. I hope she wasn't in a fiery car crash since I have been cursing her existence. Actually, I should be glad she didn't show up because she probably saved me a couple of hundred dollars. I didn't "need' anything anyway, although I was looking forward to buying some more shaving cream. I love that stuff.

I had a blast at my party, even without the toy party part. ZarahZou was a most-excellent bartender. She made lots of fruity pretty drinks. I didn't get "trashed", but I did get a tad bit tipsy. And a couple of people that I have not seen in years and years came. That was really fun. It was nice to see them, I am very glad they came. Zheresa and Zamy have not changed one bit in the past 15 or so years. They look they same. It's hard for me to comprehend that someone (Zheresa) that I used to go trick or treating with has 4 kids! We are officially and certifiably ADULTS! Sometimes I feel younger, but then I remember that I have a 15 year old daughter and a mortgage.

And now I have enough alcohol leftover to have an official "liquor cabinet". Except I don't have a cabinet. But I have plenty of alcohol. If I ever need a drink, I have a little of everything. Yesterday Alyssa and I made nonalcoholic apple and watermelon martini's. Yum. And I made her a Tequila Sunrise, sans tequila, of course. She was impressed with the drink,and I got to explain density to her.

Today I got a phone call from another person that I have not talked to since high school. Zenee used to live across the street from me from about the time I was 5 until I was 14. She slept over at my house numerous times and we spent lots of time together. I haven't talked to her forever so it was really nice to hear from her.

Ok, time to make my nutri-dinner....

Over two weeks

since I last wrote an entry. Wow! What is happening to me. That is unacceptable. I have just been so preoccupied with things- my dad was in the hospital, I'm getting a root canal (and I had a killer toothache), school clothes shopping, family picnics, oh, and wedding plans. So much to do, so little time.

It's past my bedtime, but I get to sleep in for about 45 minutes tomorrow because I have a dentist appt. at 8:00 am to finish my root canal. And I get to pay $250 to get it done. What a treat. A trip to the dentist and an increased balance on my visa. But, good news- by charging it on my amazon.com visa I will have accrued enough points to get a $25 amazon.com gift card. What a deal.

Family picnic in Becker on Saturday. And I get to make two dishes, my parents and my own. I am soooo lucky. Plus I don't even get to enjoy any picnic foods since I am on nutrisystem. I did decide to make my bachlorette party an exception and I plan to consume at least 2500 calories worth of tequila. I'm not making an exception for the picnic since there will be other picnics in my future. There will not, however, be any other bachlorette parties in my honor. So I need to drink. A lot.

I just had the best dessert. Nutrisystem chocolate-chocolate chip pudding. It was so good. Some of the food is really, really good. For dinner tonight I had green pepper steak w/ rice. I didn't expect to like it, but it was surprisingly good. I dumped it over a plate of cooked frozen broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. I am eating so much cooked broccoli. I still don't like it, but when you dump a dinner over it, it tastes like the dinner's sauce. I have lost nearly 14 pounds so far. I am very excited about that. 14 down, 26 to go. Too bad the next 14 won't be quite as easy. Or maybe they will be??

Ok, my laundry is done so I should go fold my clothes before I go to bed. Need to be well-rested for the root canal.

We set a date!!!

I know, about time, huh? Especially since I've been planning the bachlorette party for 2 months. Anyhow, the date is September 9th at the Chapel of Love in the Mall of America. We got the least expensive package and get to have 12 whole guests (as opposed to half guests). And following the ceremony, dinner at the Rain Forest Cafe (Zalyssa's choice). I ordered my dress. Actually, I ordered two dresses since I have no idea what size I'll be in September, hopefully a size 2, maybe a 4. But I'll settle for a comfortable 12 or a tight 10.

I'm having pretty good luck with Nutrisystem. Most of the food has been pretty good and I haven't been hungry. I expect that tomorrow (which will be 2 weeks on the plan) I'll have lost about 9 pounds. 9 down, 26 to go. At two pounds a week, that's only 13 more weeks. Very doable.

I'm still trying to figure out my reaction to the KG trade. I so want to be happy for him, this is his chance to get a ring. And he's such a fun player to watch. But, I also want the Timberwolves to win, and trading away of of the best players EVER just doesn't seem like the key to winning. But, what do I know?

Ok, time to shower. Then I get my nutri-snack. Not sure what to have tonight- BBQ soy chips (which are really, really good), Nutri-chocolates (also really, really good) or a nutri-chocolate crunch bar (again- super good). So many choices.

Super Saturday!

Today is Super Saturday and a benefit is being held in The Hampton's to raise money for ovarian cancer. And this year QVC is participating. I just got a killer deal on some philosophy products that will make perfect Christmas or birthday presents for a couple of people. Awesome! philosophy at half-price!

Ok, since I started Nutri-system I have lost almost 7 pounds. I am very excited. Some of the food is excellent. I had another awful thing- the orange-cranberry breakfast pastry. It tasted and smelled like feet. For real. And I truly thought it would be one of my favorites. Oh,well.

I finished the new Harry Potter book. It was very good, but I am a bit disappointed that it is over. I wanted it to keep going.

Ok, I need to go to the grocery store and get more zucchini. I have been eating tons of it. I didn't even really like it until I started frying it with peppers and garlic. Now I think it is fantastic.

Has it really been 9 days...

since my last blog? wow, doesn't seem like that long.

I started Nutrisystem. I have been strictly following the program since the 19th. So far, so good. Most of the food has either been really good or tolerable. Only really NASTY thing was the turkey with balsamic vinaigrette. Holy nasty. Like really, really bad. It sounds good, but it is bad. I even semi-enjoyed the tuna casserole that people on the website told me to not even bother opening. I fried up a bunch of green peppers, red peppers, onions and celery and mixed it in. it tasted like peppers. Not sure I'd want it again, but it was edible. And I have already lost 3 pounds. I have given up my goal of losing 57 pounds by September. I'll take 15.

I went to see Hairspray with ZarahZou. She had popcorn (and was nice enough to skip the icee) while I ate cucumber slices and a large diet coke. Note- large diet coke is way too much to drink in the first half of a movie. I think this may be the first movie I have gone to where I didn't have popcorn and an icee. And I didn't die or anything. The movie was really good, but I think I like the original better.

I am for surely getting married in September, but we still have not chosen a date. We decided to go to the chapel in the Mall of America. Cheesy? Yes. But it is a good middle ground between a real wedding and going to the courthouse. We are just waiting for my sister to book her airline ticket. She has exactly about 2 more days before we just choose a date and if she's here, she's here. I'd like her to be there, but we can't wait much longer.

Nick wants to go see The Simpson's this weekend, but I just don't know if I can do another movie without popcorn. I may be better off skipping it. I'm sure he can find someone else to go with. Plus (is this sacrilegious) I don't really care one way or the other about the Simpson's. Kind of a take 'em or leave 'em kind of thing.

Ok, I should go make dinner for my starving child.

Zennieland....

I got the most bestest birthday present ever from ZarahZou. She made me a game (modeled after CandyLand) called ZennieLand. It is the most hilarious game ever. The game cards are all relevant to my life and people like Dumbledork and other people I work with. I almost hyperventilated at work while reading some of the cards. It is the most thoughtful gift I have ever received, and I know she spent hours and hours working on. How am I ever going to top it? Thank you very much, ZarahZou, I absolutely love it.

I am going to start Nutrisystem just as soon it is delivered. My wonderful dad purchased it for me. I really, really hope that it works. I will be religiously following the plan. Please let it work! On a semi-related note, for the first and only time I remember, I lied to ZickyZou. But since it was about how much I weigh, does it really count as a lie? I'd like to want to tell the truth, but the number is just too high. Maybe when I am at my goal weight of 112 pounds, then I will tell the truth. Actually my goal weight is 150. I would be quite happy there, i think. that is still higher than the recommended weight for my height, but I think 150 would be fine. We'll see how well this huge investment (it costs $300 for 5 weeks) works. And since it wasn't my money, I'll feel too guilty to not religiously follow the plan. I brought my scale home from my parents, so now I can weigh myself.

Ok, i am going to finish my laundry.

$17 for a movie??

That's how much I spent to see Harry Potter. But it was worth every penny, even if we had to sit in the third row and my neck hurts. It was a really good movie. I recommend that you see it in the theater.

I just got back from getting my oil changed. My dad changes it for free! Yippee for free oil changes. That saves me tons of money. Plus he checked my tire pressure and filled my windshield washer fluid.

We got our marriage license in the mail so now we can get married any time we want within the next 6 months. It was very weird to see how my new name will look. Zennifer Zynn Zartinez. That's going to take a lot of getting used to. I've had the same name for as long as I can remember.

When I woke up this morning at 7:00 am, I heard the clickety-clacking of the computer keyboard. I went downstairs to see what was going on, and MissZalyssa was typing away. I asked her what she was doing up already. Silly question- she was still up and hadn't gone to bed yet. She finally went to bed around 9, in my bed where it is nice, quiet and clean.

I had the best breakfast ever. An egg (eggbeaters, of course), pepper and onion quesadilla. It was soooo good. I think I'll have one tomorrow morning, too.

Ok, I am going to go and watch a lifetime movie. That is my new favorite past time.

Please stop calling me....

I do not know who you are, but your early morning calls to my cell phone are driving me insane. When my child is away, I need to leave my cell phone on for emergency purposes. An emergency is the only reason I want it to ring at 4:00am. Call me all you want around noon, but not when I am supposed to be sleeping.

You are quite lucky I am so lazy and poor, or you'd probably either be in jail or in the hospital. After our discussion this morning about you asking me if I saw your "naughty pictures", I could either march myself down to the police station and file a report or I could pay the $14.95 to get the phone # report and get your name and address and send the hired help over to visit you.

The new show on NBC "The Singing Bee" is pretty lame. I really wanted to like it, but I just am not getting it. It feels kind of choppy or something. So tonight I am trying "Don't forget the lyrics". I hope it's better, I love singing. I have also been watching "The Next Best Thing". How could they not move Dolly on. I think she as the best of all of them. .

Ok, back to the tv and exercising. I love exercising.

Transformers....

more than meets the eye.......the only thing really wrong with this movie is that they never do the theme song. Otherwise, the movie is awesome. It got a bit long, but it is really good- awesome special effects.

I am currently waiting for my birthday dinner to finish cooking- pepperoni pizza from Papa Murphy's- yum! Nick go time ice cream for my birthday- Sticky Toffee Cake from Haagan Daaz. We saw it advertised in a magazine and it looked soooo good. Except I was kind of mad because it was the ice cream that won a contest on the food network- except I had not seen the conclusion show yet. So the advertisement ruined it.

Today would be perfect if only it were Saturday. I could use another day off. I like days off. Last night I went to bed at 8:00. And I woke up this morning at 7:00. Hopefully I can go to bed early tonight.
OK, pizza is almost done.

Do you recognize this cell phone #?

763-482-1311??? Whoever it belongs to better have a GOOD explanation as to why they not only called my cell phone at 4:00 in the morning, but why they sent me the most obscene picture message I have ever received. The phone woke ZickyZou up, too and he was not pleased. Very few people have my cell phone #, so unless one of those few plastered it on the bathroom wall, I can't explain why someone so stupid would have it. And, if by chance this guy googled his own number and got to my blog- you have a very small penis. I should know since I've seen pictures of it. But I'm more pissed that you woke me up. I should be able to sleep through the night unless there is an emergency. And I doubt you were calling to tell me someone I know died.

Ok, now that we established I was not happy with my early morning wake up, I shall move on to happier things. Like that in just a few shorts hours we are having Indian Taco's. Yum. Except there may be a slight problem for me as I have recently started taking the new (fda-approved) diet supplement Alli. It is way spendy, so it better work. If nothing else, the "treatment effects" as they call them give me a really good incentive to not exceed 15 fat grams per meal for fear of devastating, uncontrollable things happening in my gastrointestinal tract. The guide that came with it warns of sudden, oily leakage. How gross is that. But since I have so much money invested in it, I have a very good reason to eat healthy. I am just sad that I will be limited to one small piece of fry bread. But I can eat all the lettuce and tomato that my (fat-craving) heart desires. Lucky me. If it works, it's worth it. Plus I got a Target gift card from my sister for my birthday that I used to pay for part of it.

I really should repaint my toenails. Zindy told me that they made look like I was jaundiced. I tend to agree. But they are such a beautiful yellow.

Ok, time to go get dressed so I can start frying the bread shortly. Happy 4th of July!

It's Sunday...

and it's 12:30. ZickyZou just got out of bed. I've been up since 8. So far I have made breakfast 3 separate times (me, zlyssa, and zickyzou), brought 2 whole bags of shoes up from the entry closet to my bedroom closet, started the dishwasher, drank 5 glasses of water, and watched a Lifetime movie. Now I am on break.

When I was at the credit union on Friday, the bank teller lady had the nerve to ask me if my handbag was fake. I am currently carrying the primary color Coach Scribble tote. That is rather an insulting question, dontcha think? It's real, I swear, I have the receipt. So now I am wondering if everyone assumes I am carrying a fake and trying to pretend it's real? It is real, I am just not sure I like it so much anymore if people think it's fake.

And on the subject of fake handbags, a lady at work brought in a bunch of fakes to sell. I am just not sure as to what my stance is on "designer inspired" handbags. I will admit that I have a fake coach and a fake spade (which is my favoritest handbag ever), but I also have a wardrobe of real bags and they are so much higher quality. But when I carry one of the real ones, do people think it's fake? And do I care? Should I care? Is buying a fake handbag the equivalent of downloading music and movies illegally (which I am adamantly opposed to)?

ZickyZou is ALLEGEDLY going to Sears today to get the new garage door keypad. He swears he is. I'll believe it when it is in my hands.

I invited my parents over for dinner on Wednesday, I am making fry bread tacos. So I better get started on cleaning the trashcan I call my house.

Friday night....

and I am home alone again. ZickyZou is fishing with my brother and I just dropped the Zalyssa-monster off at my parents house so that she could puppy-sit tomorrow. Since I just got home from dropping her off at 10:15, does that count as going out on Friday night since I did go out???

I am very tired. I was going to take a shower, but maybe I'll just wait until tomorrow. I washed my face and am doing a Biore pore strip instead. I'm waiting for it to dry so that I can remove it and peel away all my blackheads. So gross, but so satisfying.

If I was writing about work on my blog, my blog would include a lot of swear words directed at one person. But since I am not writing about work, I have nothing to say about Voldy. Oh, and Dumbledork is the biggest dum-bass ever. ZarahZou, if you are reading this, remind me to tell you the stories about Voldy and customer service and Dumbledork and the waiver of subrogation.

I just got a most excellent shipment from qvc today. On easy-pay celebration day, I ordered philosophy micro-delivery peel (awesome), 32 ounce bottles of senorita margarita and melon daquiri 3-in-1's and a product I have never used before called the present clear make-up. It is allegedly supposed to make pores and lines invisible. I guess we'll see. My greatest thought is that it is going to make me break out. but, we'll see. I bought it on 5 easy monthly payments, so it is practically free. and qvc has a 30 day money back guarantee. the only way I can lose is if I break out and can't get the acne back under control. That would suck. I can't wait to wash my hair with the margarita scented stuff. except first I must finish off all the open bottles of other stuff.

ok, time to peel off the biore and then I am going to bed.

For my next adventure....

I will be reading Breakfast at Tiffany's. I've seen the movie, but have never read the book. The movie is supposed to be only "loosely based" on the book, but I hope it's just as good. Holly Golightly is the 1960's version of my favorite shopaholic, Becky Brandon (nee Bloomwood). I'm hoping to love this book.

When I win the lottery (or become an ebay zillionaire) the only conditioner I am going to use on my hair is philosophy's amazing grace. Wow does it make my hair soft and shiny. I wish I could afford to use it everyday, but over $1 an ounce is just too much for my Suave budget. Thank you to QVC for having such fabulous and affordable kits available that allow me to have 8 ounces of conditioner every 3 months.

I am very sad that New Kid on the Block have not yet accepted my myspace friend invitation. I want to be their friend.

I heard on the radio that the Spice Girls are reuniting and going on tour. If they do MN, I am going. Won't that be a blast? I feel bad not taking Alyssa when she was 8 or 9 or however old she was when they were here. I'm willing to make it up to her now. Her best birthday party ever was when we played "Pin the Spice Girl on the stage" and the Spice Girl pencil drop where the prizes (that everybody won) was Spice Girl pencils. I was an awesome mom. All that was missing was the concert.

My new ceiling fan is installed. We have light in the "dining room". Awesome.

OK, I am going to go to bed early. I'm tired.

Wow! It's been a long week...

It is way past my bedtime, but I haven't blogged in over a week. Lots to say, no time to say it. My mom is doing much, much better. She is out of the hospital, still not sure exactly what happened, but she is doing better. Spending a couple of nights in the hospital with her left me exhausted. And I really don't think I have never been so scared in my entire life. But she is doing better and I am very thankful for that.

My dad halfway installed my new ceiling fan. He is coming back tomorrow to put on the light fixture thingy's. Now that the fan is up, I'm wondering if I should have went with the wood colored instead of white. Oh, well. too late now. It will match the beautiful track lighting in the kitchen, so at least it'll be tacky-coordinated.

My sister's myspace talks about Paul Bunyan, except she spelled his name Bunion. I found that to be very funny. But then I went in and corrected it for her because she is my sister. I am having a lot of fun with myspace. I just changed my song to Geri Halliwell's Look at Me. Because I'm a drama queen if that's your thing baabeee, I can even do reality. I love that song, even it makes me even more dorky than I already may be. I would like to think that it is just because I have extensive musical interests. Or I'm a dork. You choose.

I wish that I had not decided to no longer write about my job. I have a list of complaints that no one but ZarahZou (via e-mail) will ever hear. But since she is probably the only person that reads my blog, it would be redundant to type them all again anyway. I've tried to get other people to read my blog, but they just don't want to. I know Zalyssa comes in and skims for any references to her so that she can get mad at me for something legitimate, but other than that, I doubt I have any other readers , although everyone is welcome.

Ok, it is 10:20 and I am tired.

8:00 pm on a Saturday night...

and where was I??? In bed. I was so tired that I went to bed super early Saturday night. Then I was able to get up early this morning and get some house cleaning stuff done. I love doing laundry:)

I went to my dad's house for Father's day, we grilled hamburgers and carrots and potatoes on the grill. They turned out most excellent. I am most impressed with my grilling ability.

Yesterday I returned the light that won't fit into my ceiling fan. My dad said it might be cheaper and easier to just buy a new fan that already has a light in it, so I'll look into that. And he did some searching on how to fix the garage door keypad. We can buy a new keypad thing for $40. Any guesses on what ZickyZou is doing this week?? If you guessed going to Sears to buy the new keypad, you win.

All but one of my ebay auctions sold. I didn't make a ton of money, but I am going to come out ahead by a couple of dollars. And I relisted the other item for practically free, so maybe someone will bid. I have to go to the post office tomorrow to mail 3 packages.

I still need to figure out what I'm going to wear tomorrow. You;d think going casual would make getting dressed easier. No such luck. It is so hard to choose clothes because I have to be so careful of the shoes I choose because my feet hurt so bad all the time. I guess I'm getting old or something.

OK, off to my closet....

My life on the Z list....

Here's the garbage can that is still on backorder. I really

wish that it would get back in stock and ship to me.

It will absolutely complete my beautiful kitchen. Thank you ZarahZou for helping make my kitchen awesome. You and a trash can are all it took!!! (And your paintbrush.)

I just started watching Kathy Griffin: My life on the D list. I really, really like this show. She is hilarious. She swears a lot, but she is so freekin' funny. I think I might buy the first season so I can watch that.

Carlos Silva just got a complete game shut out. This is way cool, especially since the last time I saw him pitch he gave up like 18 runs in the first inning. I'm glad he was able to do this, and the twins win.

I would be very, very happy if someone would bid on my ebay auctions that do not have bids. Please. Please. Please. I am practically giving the items away, and if they don't sell I still have to pay ebay fees. I have lost so much money on the last couple of auctions, please someone buy these items.

Ok, bedtime...

Music & Lyrics....

I just finished watching Music & Lyrics. What a cute movie. I love Drew Barrymore.

I decided to go with a coral paint for the kitchen. And today I went to Target and bought new rugs that are coral, beige and green, so hopefully that will draw all the colors together and make it look like I have a semi-clue about decorating.

I just lost money selling something on ebay. That sucks! I paid $16 for a bottle of philosophy pure grace lotion ($34 retail). It sold for $21.99 + $5.00 shipping. Ebay fees of about $1.00, paypal fees of just over $1.00, shipping costs of $6.20 + .65 for delivery confirmation, .99 for the shipping box. Ok, I made a $1.15. But it took me 20 minutes to list the product plus 15 minutes in line at the post office. Nice. philosophy

I am making enchilada's for dinner. I may very likely be the only one home at dinner time. ZickyZou went fishing and I think Zalyssa is going to the Father Hennepin Days carnival. WE are going to be eating enchilada leftovers for 20 years. Good thing I like enchilada's.

Ok, I am going to list some more items on ebay. I have a lot of ground to make up if I am going to become a millionaire.

I slammed my finger in the door...

and it freekin' hurts. It bled for an hour. I think I might lose the nail. this is what I get for being in a hurry and trying to do 18 things at once.

I am going to be rich. I listed on ebay a bottle of philosophy shower gel that I got for free as a gift with purchase, and the bidding is already up to $8.50. I'll probably lose about a dollar on shipping because I am only charging $5 and it will cost that much to ship it plus I had to buy a box, but I am going to be RICH! I love selling gift with purchases. Free money!

I spent $100 at Target picking up milk. I do not recommend stopping there for milk. They way overcharge. And what is it with the new $100 Target service fee. It used to cost me $40 to pick up milk. Inflation sucks.

I have a half day of vacation on thursday to go paint shopping. I am considering taking a half day wednesday, too. Would that be terrible? I had the day from hell thanks to my favorite reps and my most excellent wonderfulist dum-bass manager. I could use some time off. I'm just scared I'll use up all my paid time off and then I'll get sick and have to take days off without pay. That would be very bad.

Ok, time to shower and then I'm going to bed.

Thank you, ZarahZou!

On Saturday ZarahZou and I got pedicures. very nice! we went to the beauty school, so thee cost was rather affordable. And my toes are a very pretty iridescent hot pink color. very fun looking. except one of my toes got a little smudged cause we went shoe shopping. I only bought two pair (I think ZarahZou got 3?).

Then we went back to my house and primed my kitchen. That's why me title thanks her. she did 95% of the work. she is very, very nice. and she has volunteered to help me paint next weekend. I am super glad she is my friend. not just because she is helping me paint. I was glad she was my friend before saturday, but now I'm gladder because she's so nice. This week I'm going to go shopping to find the perfect color. I find a sample of a beige that I really like, but I want to see if I can find a similar color, just a tad more coraly-pinkish, I think.

I've been very bad about posting new posts. Partly cause I'm lazy and partly because zalyssa spends so much time on the computer.

I listed new things on ebay, so maybe I'll be a zillionaire sometime soon. I hope so.

Ok, I am going to watch the mtv movie awards.

Moving day....

In honor of ZarahZou moving into a new house, I decided to do some rearranging. I moved "the library" from the living room up to my bedroom. Moving one bookshelf probably doesn't sound like a lot of work, but it took me a couple of hours. Carrying stacks of books up the stairs, at least 20 trips. Then carrying the book case. Then when I got it up to my bedroom, I had to move stuff around to make it fit. Then I had to perform surgery on it with my super-handy drill. One of the sides needed to be re-connected. Then I had to put the books back. Then I moved the kitchen table, moved the loveseat a bit, then I finished reading "The Woods" by Harlan Coben. WOW! It was very, very good.

I love my new purple vacuum. It is so cute and so light. And it picks up great.

Monday is my follow up appointment with the doctor to see if my cholesterol has dropped. I can't wait to find out if my flax seed/fish oil/metamucil diet is working. I'll be rather disappointed if it is not.

Ok, I am going to watch Law & Order since I have the house to myself. ZickyZou is working on his dad's car, and Zalyssa is at her dads. So the house is all mine.

The house to myself....

ZickyZou went somewhere with his brother. MissZalyssa went to the Twins game with her friend Zashley. I have the house to myself. Except I have to make the broccoli salad, cut up the strawberries, and do a bunch of other stuff to get ready for tomorrow. We are going over to my parents and grilling steaks. Yum!

I am very, very mad at stupid Mr. Zristopher Zawks, my sisters ex-husband. They are both being stupid. His new girlfriend is telling my nephew that his mom is stupid and other things like that. Mr.Zris is telling my sister, Zeryl, that she is lying about it. I don't really care what the real story is, all that is important is that all 3 of them (Zris, Zeryl and Zapril) need to GROW UP! and act like adults. The most important person is the equation is the child. Love your children more than you hate your ex. My nephew is four years old, he should not have to deal with the name-calling and the fighting and tension being caused by this situation. Yes, I know it's hard. I've been there.

I got up early and got my hair cut. Just two inches off the back, the ends of the layers and bangs. Looks exactly like it did, but shorter. I like that.

Okay, I have about another hour and a half to myself. I'm going to take a nap. Or watch for my daughter on tv.

Rory said no!!

I'm very very sad that Gilmore Girls is coming to an end. The whole story reminds me of Alyssa and I, except I'm not beautiful like Lorelei, and my daughter probably isn't going to Yale. I can't believe the show is ending. And I can't believe that Rory said no when Logan proposed. It would have been so perfect. I really hope that Luke and Lorelei get back together before it all ends. That is two shows I have lost in the past couple of months.

I have over $30 in my mr.rebates account. I am super-rich. Except I'm going to get about $2 taken back because I'm returning 2 pairs of capri pants because they look silly on me. Too long to be capri's, too short to be pants. But then I bought a new purple vacuum cleaner, so I'll get $3 back.

I'm going to finish watching SVU. Good night!

Alternative to lip gloss....

Last night before I went to bed I drank some fruit punch. I woke up with a nice, bright red kool-aid mustache. I always thought that it was the sugar in kool-aid that caused the staining. But I was drinking a sugar-free crystal light-type zero calorie drink. Next time I am using a straw.

I got a $15 rebate from paypal. I love free money.

I have almost $20 in the mr.rebates account because I may or may not have bought a new dooney handbag. I am not admitting to anything other than having a penchant for nice handbags, and having one heckuva collection.

A very small part of me wonders who is getting kicked off Idol tonight. A very large part of me does not care. An even larger part knows that I should be on my treadmill right now, and not typing this.

The Twins are up by 2. There are very many quite nice looking players. What a fun game to watch.

Ok, I must either walk or go on the stepper. Exercise is a good thing, right?

Yogurt covered raisins...

Generally speaking, I don't like raisins. But I went to Aldi on Saturday and bought some, and they are very, very good. Very bad for you, but they taste good.

Disturbia is a super good movie.

I ordered some philosophy foundation from skinstore.com. 20% off, free shipping, a ton of free samples, and the shipping was super-fast. Next time I am in need of some philosophy products, skinstore.com will be my first choice. This was my first purchase from there, I read about it on the qvc bulletin board. Oh, and an 8% rebate from mr.rebates. Since I wanted to buy the foundation anyway, and it is the same price wherever you go, this was an AWESOME deal.

I wish I could find a way to motivate myself to list some items on ebay. I have a ton of stuff, it jsut takes so much time.
Plus I need Zalyssa to help me use the camera, as I am totally inept.

Last year at this time we were packing and getting ready to move. We have been here for almost a year. Time flies.

ok, I am going to exercise before it gets too late.

100!

This is my 100th post. woo-hoo!

Yesterday ZarahZou and I sent 100 e-mails back and forth while we were at work. She is fun to talk to.

Tomorrow I think that ZickyZou and I are going to go see Disturbia. I want to see the movie, but I REALLY want an icee. and popcorn.

I just finished a book called "Three Dog Life" by Abigail Thomas. It is a memoir, the story of her life after her husband gets a traumatic brain injury. It was sad, but I am glad I read it. Now I get to read a fun book, so I chose "The Good Wife Strikes Back" by Elizabeth Buchan. I'll start it after I finish my 100th post.

I love Mr.Rebates. I have over $7.00 in pending rebates. Had I been using it for the past two years, I'd have a million dollars in rebates. I keep forgetting to use it.

I am deciding if I want to get up and get my haircut tomorrow. I'd much rather sleep in.

ok, off to start a new book.

My 99th post...

Do I get an award for that? I would like an award. Sunday is my 9 year anniversary at my job. Do I get an award for that?

I am going to switch purses and use my super-cute Coach scribble tote. The dooney is going in the closet. I love it, but I want to switch it up a bit.

Why do cashiers think I want to talk to them? When I go to the grocery store, I really just want to pay for my items and leave. I don't care that it has been busy, you like broccoli with cheese on it, and that you don't like listening to talk radio. I am sorry that you are lonely, but just because I look friendly does not mean that I am. I am reserved and talking to people I don't know gives me panic attacks. Do I need to wear a sign that says not to talk to me? After I don't respond to your first comment, and glare at you when you keep trying, please take the hint. if you knew how stressful my day at work was, you would see that I really want just quiet. Please.

That's it. Good night.

Memo to.........

TV Program schedule deciders: If you want me to watch your show, do not schedule it for the same time as the only other program I watch. I refuse to decide between Gilmore Girls, American Idol and the Twins game. Therefore, I am writing in my blog.


My Neighbors: When you play your music so freekin' loud, I have a hard time explaining to my child why she needs to be polite and keep hers down. She is a child. You are allegedly adults. Kindly lower the volume before I scream, non-stop, all night long.

My supervisors: Nothing really to say to you today. Except that I, for one, am not fooled like some people are when you try to fake like you have any clue what's going on.

My closet: why do you keep shrinking my clothes. that's not very nice of you.

That's it. Have a good night.

Memo to.........

TV Program schedule deciders: If you want me to watch your show, do not schedule it for the same time as the only other program I watch. I refuse to decide between Gilmore Girls, American Idol and the Twins game. Therefore, I am writing in my blog.


My Neighbors: When you play your music so freekin' loud, I have a hard time explaining to my child why she needs to be polite and keep hers down. She is a child. You are allegedly adults. Kindly lower the volume before I scream, non-stop, all night long.

My supervisors: Nothing really to say to you today. Except that I, for one, am not fooled like some people are when you try to fake like you have any clue what's going on.

My closet: why do you keep shrinking my clothes. that's not very nice of you.

That's it. Have a good night.

another challenging book...

Ok, so after I finished "I am Charlotte Simmons", I decided I needed to read a couple of chick lit books because Charlotte Simmons was so serious. So, I read Shopaholic & Baby, Hide by Lisa Gardener and Step on a Crack by James Patterson. The last two aren't necessarily "girl books", but I think that anything you can read in a few hours is not very challenging.

So, I decided next I would read "The View from Delphi". Wow! It is very intense. It takes place in 1955, I am not certain that they ever give the date, but there are references to Rosa Parks having just refused to give up her seat on the bus. It is the story of a white woman (Hazel) and her black maid (Vida), although I am not certain maid is the correct word, she is more of a housekeeper/babysitter of the lady. Generally I wouldn't point out their race, but the story is about their differences and their similarities. They have both just recently lost children in very different ways, and it's the story of how they eventually become friends. It's really hard to read some of the name-calling, as the "n" word is used a lot. And there is a lot of disregard of other people. It is very good so far, very well written.

To preserve what little sanity I have left, I am not going to write about my review. I'll just say that I "Meet Expectations". And the sponge that I use to wash out my sink meets expectations. Interesting.

Ok, I am going to bed.

If you call the fashion police...

I am so going to get arrested. My current attire consists of blue crochet slipper-socks, an over-sized t-shirt (no bra) and thin white carpi pants with bright purple underwear. You can so totally see them through my pants. and my hair is up in a towel, I have a scrunchy on my wrist and a bobby pin on my shirt. and after I washed my face, I didn't take off all my mascara when I washed my face. I feel pretty. But at least I smell good because ZickyZou told me so.

We just got back from going out to linner (the meal for when you skip lunch but it's too early to be dinner). We went for chinese. I had my usual cashew chicken -chicken with cashew nuts, as it is listed on the menu. Any reason they need to use a longer name than necessary? ZickyZou had some kind of spicy scallop dish. it smelled like fish. I really wanted him to get the cashew shrimp (shrimp with cashew nuts), but he was dead-set on getting something from the spicy section.

Then we went and saw Blades of Glory. There were some really, really funny parts. It was a good movie.

Then we went to the grocery store. Exciting news - Cub has 35 packs of water. I figure that a 35 pack will last longer than the 24 pack. Unless we drink more water because we have more water??? Only problem is that I can't lift the 35 pack. ZickyZou will have to go to the grocery store with me once a week so he can lift the water. Except he throws gross crap in the cart. Tonight he bought "Shrimp chips" from the asian foods section. All I can say is ICK! No, I have not tired them. I have no intention of trying them. They would, however, make a nice treat for ZarahZou. Only problem is that I will touch the bag so I can't bu them for her unless Zick is with. So, maybe next week???

The Twins are up 12-2 and it's the top of the 8th with 2 outs. Think they can win?

On Monday I have part 2 of my review. I am quite certain that I will not be part of this dept for much longer. Said it before, I'll say it again. Neville is an idiot. My objectives for next year- phone calls instead of e-mails because we don't need to have written correspondence because my managers always take my side; implement three ideas to provide better service to the agents and insureds because I certainly need to create more work for myself; and find two new markets to explore. Ok, I strongly believe that I provide the best service I possibly can with the tools and time I have available. and where am I supposed to find new markets. I asked neville if everyone had such impossible objectives. he laughed like I was joking. I told him that I would consent to having those be my objectives, but I felt there was no possible way for me to meet said objectives. I also told him I felt I was providing excellent service. then he came up with this scenario:

Every day at 6:15 I stop at Caribou to get a cup of coffee because I need to be to work at 6:20. Every day for a year I go there and spend $5. Caribou is open from 6:00am - 10:00 pm. Once day I need to be to work at 6:05 so I stop at Caribou at 5:58. (They open at 6). I see employees walking around in there, so i pound on the door and ask for coffee at 5:58. Don't I expect them to give me coffee at 5:58 even though they are not open until 6:00? That would be excellent service. I told Neville "no, I would not expect them to open up just for me even one second early. the sign on their door says 6-10, following those hours is good service. If I got there at 6:15 and they were not open, I'd be pissed, but I don't feel that I am important enough for a business to open early for me". Then I reminded him that there are plenty of times that I stay late to finish a quote or something. He seems to feel that the coffee shop should open early for me. I disagree. I asked him if he was advising me to come in at 6:28 every morning. We ended at a draw, he thinks I should be selfish enough to feel that the world should revolve around me, I tend to think that as long as they are open at 6, and willing to make me a cup of coffee at 10:02 every once in a while, then we're good.

The entire meeting was similar to that. I had to bite my lip to keep from screaming or crying. I am not feeling like I am getting a huge raise. That hardly seems fair since I am doing twice as much work as some people, and 20 times as much work as others. Apparently that is unimportant. I guess we will see on Monday how soon before I seriously explore other options. I know that I am good at what I do. I also know that not meeting impossible objectives equals no raise.

It's philosophy day in qvc, so I made myself feel better by purchasing the supernatural foundation, the 32 ounce pure grace 3-in-1 and the 32 ounce pure grace firming body emulsion. I'm much happier now.

Ok, I am going to go and choose the next book I am going to read. goodnight!

I like Sanjaya...

and that is really all I have to say about American Idol. I think Sanjaya is awesome.

I really don't have much more to say about anything. I hate my job, I have a headache (think the 2 are related???), I'm reading a good book, I drank 14 glasses of water today. That's it.

I'm going to take a shower and go to bed. Good night!

Born to shop....forced to cook

Zalyssa and I went out to the Albertville outlet mall yesterday. I bought myself the cutest dish towel and pot holder. They say "Born to shop, forced to cook", and they are sooooo cute.

I also bought myself a Coach primary color scribble hangbag. I won't say how much $, just that it is an investment piece. It is so cute, but it is not an everyday handbag, just something you would use for special occasions.

I also bought some new artwork to hang in the kitchen and living room. I think I am just about done with the decorating and am ready for new carpet. I have no wall space left.

We had a most excellent Easter dinner. I made a 65 pound lasagna, ham, green bean casserole (yummo) and garlic bread. And carrot cake. Zalyssa helped- she made the green beans, the cake and a marshmallow-fruit cocktail salad. When everyone left I just threw the dishes in the dishwasher on the hot water pots and pan cycle. I hope that cleans them. My house is sparkly clean, the dishes are washing themselves, I am stuffed, the only thing that would make today better would be if I didn't have to go back to work tomorrow. Why didn't I take two weeks off???

Ok, I am going to go and sit on the couch with ZickyZou for a couple of hours.

"I am Charlotte Simmons"

Well, I'm not Charlotte Simmons, but I did read a book with that title. It was quite excellent. Combining my two favorite things - college basketball and reading- how could it get any better?? And I have just started Shopaholic and Baby, I should be done with it before I go to bed. I can't wait to find out whether or not Becky Brandon nee Bloomwoods husband is cheating on her. And is the baby a boy or a girl??

I returned home safely from my trip with a beautiful new handbag. We stopped at the outlet mall and I got the cutest purse at Wilson's. It's turquoise and so so so cute.

Our vacation was great. We went exploring in Superior and found a Dollar Store, Walmart, Kmart and Target. And we ate at Applebee's twice. (I highly recommend the shrimp skewer salad on the Weight Watchers menu- yum). I found 50% more free bottles of V05 tea therapy conditioner at the dollar store, so I bought 7 bottles. We swam, sat in the hot tub, I watched Ohio St get their backsides kicked, I read, relaxed. Glad to be home, I have lots to clean to get ready for Easter dinner. Conveniently Nick has to work on Saturday, so all the cleaning falls to me. Nice.

I did get ZarahZou some treats, but I did not have as much getting them as I expected because Zalyssa's friend Zemily didn't quite get the whole "my treat" thing. I suggested we find some rocks in the parking lot to bring to ZarahZou, and she said "That's dumb, why would you bring your friend rocks?" Uh, because I can. I suggested we collect the crumbs from the bottom of the toaster, again "That's dumb". Duh- that's the point. Then she asked if ZarahZou would prefer a Superior keychain. I told her that anybody could get a keychain, I want things that nobody else would think of. Then Zemily told me that ZarahZou probably doesn't know anyone else visiting Superior right now, so she wouldn't get another keychain. I was getting annoyed. She ruined the spirit of treats. So, I found a couple of things, but didn't want to spend to much time looking for fear that I would throw Zemily down the stairs.

Zalyssa, Zemily and I went to see "The Reaping" today. Very good.

Ok, that's it for now. It's 8:00 and I haven't even made dinner yet.

Post # 91

Do I get an award or something? 91 posts, and not one of them says anything important. Except the one where I wrote about my thong showing at the grocery store. That was pretty important.

Nothing much to say today except- 3 working days until I go on vacation. YIPPY! I am very excited.

Oh, and ZarahZou agreed to paint my walls for cheap- she just wants food. and she didn't even say what kind. I'll invite her over, have her do all the work, and then feed her a bowl of Honey Bunches of Oats, since no one else in this house will eat them.

I am just kidding. If she helped me, I would make her something fabulous. Or even better, take her out someplace. I would be forever grateful.

Why is it that I can not go to Target without spending $100. $100 is the new $40. That's all it used to cost me. Now I spend $100 and leave with NOTHING. Today I bought some water ($4.50), some fabric softener ($3), and bread ($3), but they charged me $93.47. Oh, and I got two new pillows for my coach, and garbage bags. And Alyssa bought some barrettes. But that's it. Except for the space heater that was on clearance for less than $7. Geez, junk that I don't need adds up quick.

Ok, off to watch Law and Order SVU. And the Purdue/NC basketball game. Go Big Ten!!!

I'm getting new carpet!

Ok, so originally Nick said no to new carpet. But then when I told him I'd pay for it myself, he conceded, and so now I can get it. Except now we really need it. I decided to paint the stairway and laundry area. The laundry area went fine, the stairway did not go so find. I spilled a lot of paint. Probably half a gallon. We woke up early on Saturday (9:00 am) to install the kitchen tile. We took a 20 minute break and got done at 3:00. Then I decided I'd start painging the laundry area. Then the stairway. I took a half hour break at 5:30. Around 9:00 I started to get mad that I was still painting. That's when I started getting sloppy. Around 10:30 I said "screw it" and started cleaning up. That's a long day of working. And I still have one more coat to do on two walls. But since I can't lift my arms, it's going to have to wait. I am so much pain.

How much would I have to pay ZarahZou to come over and reach the part of the ceiling I couldn't reach? I just needed about 3 more inches. I made such a mess with the paint. But at least I get new carpet.

Next weekend we leave for our "vacation". I'm excited to get away, even if it is only to Wisconsin. I'm also very excited to get a whole week off work. Except now I am going to have to spend a day painting.

Ok, off to finish my laundry!

I think I'm okay....

I really thought I wouldn't be able to get into the whole March Madness thing, but then Duke lost and I laughed and then I knew that whatever was going on- I'm going to be fine. And the Maryland women's team is down by 20 and I am down-right giddy. Why, you may be wondering, do I think it is okay to find amusement in other people's misfortunes? Well, Duke and MD losing is like either of the Mr. Iowegians falling down the stairs. I don't really wish them bodily harm (usually), but I'd sure get a kick out of their arms flailing and their girlish screams as they tumbled down.

I am not entirely sure why I don't like Duke. I think it has to do with them being so dang good most years. Being a Gopher's fan is hard work. And it can be heartbreaking. And watching Duke succeed year after year just really sucks.

And Maryland, well, I have nothing against them personally. I just don't like the coach. I used to really like the coach before she walked out on the Gophers to go to MD. And she is a pretty good (that's the best I can do) coach and recruiter. And she let us all down.

I watched Dancing with the Stars last night. I am undecided on whether or not I will bother watching next week.

I am watching American Idol right now. I am voting for Sanjaya just because I can. I don't particularly like any of the contestants. And Paula scares me. Sanjaya hasn't even sung yet, but I still know that's who I'm dialing in for.

I spent $130 at Target on a gallon of milk and some notecards to send my sister. I recommend not shopping there if you just want to pick up a couple of things. I swear that a year ago a gallon of milk was only $40. Inflation!

I am hosting Easter dinner, if anyone chooses to come. I invited my parents, my Godparents, and my brother. ZickyZou is supposed to invite his parents and his brother. Let's see if he does. I asked him over a week ago to changed the burned out headlight in his car. And I am still driving around with one headlight.

I don't really want to talk about my bracket, but ZarahZou is doing quite well. I think she is a closet college basketball fan. Or else she's psychic. Or else she's really, really lucky.

Ok, MD is still down by 15 and there are 10 minutes left. Make it 17.
Go Ole Miss!!!!

Anyone know how to fix a garage door?

Ok, my garage door is not broken, but the keypad is. It will not open the door. There is nothing wrong with the door because it opens with the opener and the wall opener, just not with the keypad. I did the logical thing and changed the battery, but that didn't help. Just another crisis in the ongoing saga of me trying to be a homeowner.

I am really enjoying "Lisey's Story" by Stephen King. At first it was really hard to get into, but 250 pages into it I am having a hard time putting it down.

It's March Madness, and I am having a hard time caring. I seriously think I might be suffering from depression or maybe sun deprivation or something, because for the past 10 years + this has been my favorite, favorite, favorite time of the year. Like better than Christmas. I so loved the thought of hours upon hours of college basketball, the brackets, the high school tournaments. This year I only watched about 15 minutes of the selection show. On Selection Sunday, I read a book. What is wrong with me? Am I outgrowing basketball? I hope not. Maybe once the tourney starts, I'll be more into it.

I bought underwear in a package today. I don't recall ever having underwear in a package since they had cartoon characters on it. But I got 7 pair for $6.49. That is an awesome deal, even if there is no lace or flowers.

I rented The Departed. I probably won't get around to watching it for a few days, I love NO LATE FEES. And I have had only had to pay a $1.25 restocking fee a few times. I am terrible about returning movies. But I rent so many that I think I deserve to keep them a couple of extra days. We have the on-line Blockbuster thing and in addition we also probably average 8-10 rentals a month.

Ok, I am going to exercise since for dinner I had a piece of fried chicken from the Target deli. It was most excellent.

Newest addiction....

Although I have not yet broken my addiction to buying lip gloss (I just bought a new one from the Body Shop- cheek and lip stain- nice), I have developed another addiction. Buying perfume. In the last 2 weeks I have purchased 3 new bottles. I now have a brand new CLEAN ULTIMATE, a used once CLEAN, a used once Clear Skies by Bare Escentuals, an almost new philosophy the fragrance, and a half bottle each of amazing grace, pure grace, baby grace, and an amazing grace knock-off. That is about a whole paycheck worth of scent. Now I have to make sure that every morning, afternoon and night I spray myself with something. Oh, I also have a bottle of amazing grace on my desk at work. and I have an amazing grace roll-on perfume in my purse, along with a solid of each of the three graces. There is no reason for anyone to ever tell me I smell.

I think that if someone were to psycho-analyze my purchases, they would conclude that I have taken to buying a perfume when I get super-stressed out about work. I used to just buy lip glosses, but the bad habit has been replaced with something much more expensive. Nice.
And it's not like I have any stress at work or anything. I have only wanted to throw hard things and cause permanent damage to three people, so that's not bad. And in case anyone is not clear on this, follow-ups are added to our system so that we know we need to follow up. If someone closes my follow-ups, I don't know I need to follow up.

Ok, off to bed....

WIRE HANGERS!!!

Yes, I know that I have already titled a post "WIRE HANGERS!!!", but since I am watching Mommie Dearest right now and that part of the movie is on, it seems appropriate to re-use it as a title.

Nick told me he liked my new perfume because it smells clean. Coincidentally, that is the name of it, "CLEAN". And it smells excellent, but it is super-spendy. $76 a bottle. But I got a deal at hsn.com, the perfume and a small bottle of lotion for $59. That is such a good deal that I also ordered another kind called CLEAN ULTIMATE. I haven't received it yet, but I hope it smells just as good.

Next weekend we are hopefully going to go shopping for kitchen tiles. And paint for our downstairs bathroom. I can't wait. I'd also like to get a rug for the living room. I have a huge list of things I want to buy. I want everything.

I watched Rose Red yesterday. What a waste of 5 hours. I really want to like it, but it is just not The Stand. It's okay, but I think I would like it better if it was 2 hours long.

Ok, I am going to go try to install a new showerhead that my dad gave me. I mentioned that we wanted a new one, and he just gave me his "rainshower" one that he only used for awhile because he didn't like it.
Lucky for me....

Why does the weekend have to end?

Why can't weekends be 5 days and the work week be 2? I could really use longer weekends. I could really use a vacation. Too bad that my work always waits for me. It sure would be nice if the work was evenly distributed. Oh, well. At least they pay me just enough to support my lip gloss habit.

Next weekend (or is it the the weekend after), I am going to a purse party. I love purses.

I decided (and informed ZickyZou) that we are not doing anything for Valentines, no cards or anything. Two reasons: we are broke, and we usually buy each other candy of some sort. Since we are both being careful about what we eat, it doesn't really make sense to buy each other something we'll either not eat or feel guilty about eating. I know that he loves me, and I think he know I love him, so candy isn't really necessary. Plus, he gave me like an hour long back rub Friday night, and I would much rather have another one of those over a box of chocolates or flowers.

This weekend I made wild rice soup. It was wonderful. and it wasn't terribly unhealthy. I used fat free half and half instead of cream. I did throw a stick of butter into the crock pot, but I made 5 quarts of soup, so that's like only a very, very little per serving.

I was going to get a car wash today, but the line was at least a mile long. I bought the car wash when I paid at the pump, so hopefully tomorrow it will be warm enough for the car wash to be open and the line will be less than a quarter mile long. I guess we'll see tomorrow.

Ok, it's 9:30. I am going to go to bed since I am really tired.

Philosophy on QVC today....

and I couldn't find one thing that I needed or couldn't live without. That's sad because it means I have too much philosophy stuff.

I don't really have a lot I want to say or share today, but I felt like I should at least make an attempt at writing a post today. I'll try to write this weekend, maybe I'll be more inspired.

I have an announcement........

I do not need my penis enlarged. So, please, please, please stop sending me the stupid e-mails guaranteeing me an extra 4 inches. My penis is quite a fine size. And why are these e-mails not being sent right to junk mail???? It's getting old. And I can't believe that there are still people that believe that their penis is going to get bigger when they respond to a spam e-mail.

Ok, enough about the penis I don't even have.

I am terribly disappointed that JT got stabbed on Degrassi. This was such a sad show. Why couldn't they have killed off Jay, he's useless. Or Alex, who cares about her. Why JT???

The only thing I have to say about my job is - IDIOTS!! That's it.

I haven't advised ZickyZou, but when I get my tax refund, Zalyssa and I are journeying out to the Coach outlet and picking out a new handbag. Each one of us. I know that there are more practical things we should do, but don't we deserve it? I have drastically reduced my clothes and accessory spending. I think we need a new handbag.

Ok, I am going to bed early.

Zalyssa's new room....

We painted Zalyssa's room. When she is done organizing it, I will have her take pictures. The color is called Hot Pink Kiss, it is like a bright pink lipstick color, I like it way more on the walls than I did on the little sample card. And she got her new bed. Walmart had a futon that me and her looked at that was $190. So I gave Nick $200 and him and my brother went to pick it up. They brought me back $80 because it was on sale for $100. So I gave him $40 to take my brother out to lunch. Awesome! And Zalyssa also got new shelves. Her room will look really nice when it is all complete.

ZickyZou left this morning at 5:45 am to go and stand in line at Target to get a Wii. He was #4 in line, so he was able to bring home the newest addition to our family. It is pretty cool, but I would have preferred a new Coach. The next time our piggy bank is filled up, we are getting new kitchen flooring.

OK, I am going to go and do laundry....

Tea Time...

I am drinking a wonderful cup of mint tea and watching the gophers game and reading a book, and now I am typing in my blog. My house smells like yummy pot roast, it is so-so clean, and the Maryland women's team got beat by Duke. What could be better?

Well, if someone went and got the mail for me so I didn't have to go outside, that would be better.

I am reading The Memory Keeper's Daughter. I am having a hard time getting into it, not quite sure why. Maybe the subject? It takes place in 1964, and it's about a doctor who delivers his wife's twins, and one of them is born with Down's Syndrome and he gives it away and tells his wife that she died. Hard subject. But, we'll see where the book goes.

I am happy that Maryland got beat. Nothing against Maryland, I just don't like the coach. I didn't want her to be so successful after abandoning Minnesota. It was a good game and Duke was ahead the whole time.

Last night I went to the grocery store by myself. Alyssa called me today from the grocery store with her dad. She told me that she was looking at fish and she thought that she would eat Gorton's Cajun Blackened fish fillets if I bought them. Freekin' weird because that is the exact kind that I bought yesterday. I had it in my cart, put it back, and then decided I would buy it. It is just so weird because that's the only kind I bought and there were like 5 different kinds.

I also bought some fresh tuna steaks. I slightly overcooked it last night, but it was okay. It didn't kill me. It tasted sort of like a pork chop. But it was EXPENSIVE! Like $7 for two pieces. I am going to need to get a second job to support my healthy eating.

My sister called my dad to say that her deployment was being extended. Thank you, Mr. President. Her deployment has been hard on my family, especially since she lives blocks from my parents house. But it has been especially hard on Alyssa because she is not old enough to fully comprehend what's going. I don't really understand it either. But at least I am able to take the media and news reports with a grain of salt. All kids can really understand is that a lot of soldiers are dying. and how do I explain the risks to a child? There is a risk with being in a war zone. And I don't want to tell Alyssa that my sister, her aunt and Godmother, is 100% safe, because she's not. But I also don't want her scared that something is going to happen. This is not fair!! And it is especially not fair that we thought we only had until March to worry, and now that has been extended for a length of time that we don't know.

Ok, I am going to go get the mail before it gets dark.

Another Christmas....

We celebrated our final Christmas of 2006 today with my aunt and uncle, who are also my Godparents. They came over to my parents house and I brought dinner. I made chili and cornbread muffins yesterday to bring over there. And I got more fantastic presents. My aunt gave me another set of 6 Vikings glasses from the legion up where she lives. I love these things. So I have two sets now. She also gave me one of those sets of food containers that have the three different sizes and lids that fit all three. It spins. I am going to rearrange my cupboards so I can fit it because it is so cool. I was going to buy one but was holding off.

Nick and I went to see Rocky Balboa today. It started off slow, but the ending was excellent. It turned out to be a very good movie.

Ok, I am reading a Jackie Collins book, Lovers and Players, and I would like to get in a few chapters before bed.

I'm cranky...

OK, here's why I'm cranky today. Zalyssa helped a friend babysit on New Years Eve. The lady they babysat for gave Zalyssa $10 and her friend $12. The friends mom told the friend that the lady should not have paid Zalyssa. She made friend feel bad. She suggested that friend get the $10 and give it back to the lady they babysat for. Friend somehow made Zalyssa feel bad about taking the money, so Zalyssa gave it back to friend. Ok, that's not the problem. Here's the problem. Zalyssa used her gift card to rent two movies for them and the kids to watch. This leaves Zalyssa with a net profit for the night of -$8.00 and some change. This doesn't seem right to me. Had "friend" returned the $10 and then split the $12 with Zalyssa, that'd be okay. Or returned the $12 ands split the $10. Either way. It just does not seem fair to me that they both do the work and only one gets paid and it costs the other one money.

This bothers me even more because over the past four years that they have been friends, I have taken Zalyssa and friend to countless movies and numerous restaurants and paid the bill. Friend has stayed over night at our house more times than I could even count. Eaten our food, used our shower, etc, etc. And this has never been reciprocated. And not once, not once, have either of the parents thanked me. But yet the mom makes a big deal out of the $10 that Zalyssa earned???

And it's not even that. They are continuously telling friend that my child is bad. Smart-mouthed, whatever. And yes, my child is far from perfect. And she would probably kick a person if they deserved it. But she would never kick a cat, and for that, I think she's just fine. In fact, I think she's a great kid. So what if she is failing government and she talks back to me. I still thinks she's great. And it is far from okay for you to say anything bad about her.

And another thing, what do you expect your child to learn when they know that you are ILLEGALLY downloading movies from the internet. In case you don't know, although I am sure you do, THAT IS STEALING. And you can say lots and lots and lots of bad things about me, but I do not steal. And you do. Downloading movies like you do is legally, morally and ethically wrong. What kind of example are you setting?

Ok, that's it.

It's not Thursday....

but it really feels like Thursday. I can't even say how many times today I have thought "Thankfully tomorrow is Friday". Only tomorrow is not Friday because today is not Thursday.

I am currently reading "Everyone Worth Knowing" by Lauren Weisberger. It is really good so far. I wish I had more time to read.

The gophers are down by 4. I really hope they can win this one.

The football number lady came by my desk today waving cash and telling me I won. Now wouldn't I know if I won since my dad is supposedly writing down the scores as the games happen? She asked me if I had 0 & 5. I said I didn't know, and I didn't think I had won. But she insisted I did. So I took the money and told her I'd let her know. So I called my dad and asked him to grab the numbers and the scorecard. Then I asked him for the scores, and I added them up and it looked like we won. Now my dad is normally the smartest person I know. I asked him what 24 and 26 would be and he said 6. So I asked him to look again. He said 6. I then advised him that according to my calculator it was 10, and so 0 & 5 wins. Then all he said was "What in the hell was I thinking". And I left work with $90.

I gave my dad $60 since I owe him for my tires and my printer. I then had $30. I stopped at Target to get milk, toilet paper, and paper towels. I also got 5 pounds of oranges, 2 pounds of carrots, 2 boxes of Christmas cards for next year and 5 packages of christmas present boxes. My total was $30.02. AWESOME!

Ok, I am going to get back to the game. Maybe my cheering will help.

Now I'm getting super-pissed....

If my sister calls me crying one more time, I am jumping on the next plane east. Hello, Mr. Dumbass, you are the one that got caught cheating. And you don't even have the decency to keep your affair private while you and my sister are working out the details of your split. Please, please, please show some compassion for her and understand how hard this is for her. She wanted to work things out with you. You are the one that wanted out. You should probably expect her to not want you to have her son around your new girlfriend. Hi, what kind of morals can someone possibly have if they are hanging around with a married man. I can understand why she wouldn't want you, your new little girly-girl, and your son to have dinner together. You're an ass and your girlfriend is a tramp.

Happy New Year!!

Ok, the new year is not starting out particularly great. Someone (and I am not above airing family drama on the internet- I won't name names, the guilty person knows who he is)related to me by marriage is acting like a blankety-blank towards a person who is closely related to me. And he may soon really, really regret marrying into the family. I can kind of be a b-tch sometimes and I will not hesitate to get on a plane and kick his azz if it comes to that. Maybe I am more mad than I should be, but I guess the bottom line is that I have my sisters back, and if you f--- with her, then you've got to deal with us all. and we will always take our sisters side, so he doesn't really get a chance to tell his side. He is evidently not aware that I got a wonderful Christmas present from ZarahZou that included some neat things to throw at co-workers. These can also be thrown at cheating brother-in-laws. Even if we can only put "cheating" in quotes because he doesn't think he did. He is a dumb, dumb boy. And it just really sucks that my sister has to deal with this. No one should have to. And no matter what my sister decides to do, she is more than welcome to stay at our house if she needs to. ZickyZou even said she could.

Ok, on to my own life. I am 100% caught up on laundry. And my Christmas tree got taken down with a lot of help from Zalyssa's friend, Zemily. Zalyssa didn't want to help, but Zemily helped a lot. My house is almost clean. Too bad I have to go back to work tomorrow, I could use one more day off.

So Maturi fired Mason. Not sure what I think about this yet. I need more time to think about it because it was so unexpected, even if the gophs did blow a 800 point lead in their bowl game. This could have negative implications on recruiting. But Mase looks so confused on the sidelines sometimes. And some of his play calls....

Zalyssa is really upset because K-fed beat John Cena. Does anyone besides her really care????

Me and Zalyssa spent a large part of the afternoon watching VH-'s countdown of the top 100 songs of the 80's. What a nice, relaxing, entertaining waste of an afternoon.

Ok, since I have to get up tomorrow, I am off to bed.