Christmas Eve--I'm sitting on my bed with my cat laying by my side cataloguing my books online. That's my idea of fun. I got out of work at 3 pm and ran to Target for one last gift!! And I ended up spending about $60 on about 6 more gifts!! Go figure! My aunt is cooking a roast pork and it's smelling good. My oldest cousin is watching movies in his room and chain-smoking, but that's nothing new. My youngest cousin (but still older than me) just came in and is still undecided as to where he will spend tonite. The middle cousin and father of the lil Midget (little Richie) who lives with me will come over later with his girlfriend and their daughter. We will wait until midnight and open up a couple of gifts. Then we'll go to sleep. And to think of the long hours shopping, online browsing, road rages, ATM withdrawals--all for this one night of complete and utter joy!!! Can you say BULLSHEET?? I miss Christmases past.
AFTER MIDNIGHT
I'm going to risk sounding like a Hallmark card. Big Richie managed to get here about 11:30 pm and he brought his girlfriend Jennifer and her 10 year old daughter Ashley. Alex decided to go somewhere else and party. Around 11:58, the two kids were getting very antsy. So we let them start ripping up presents. And looking into their smiling eyes, I finally remembered what the fuss is about. These are the memories that they will look back to. The memories that will keep them going when life gets tough, the way it does when we grow up.
Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!!
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Monday, December 24, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
Crossroads with Pain
Ok I am going to get personal in this post but this has been bothering me and I need a forum where I can let it all out and this here is my forum. I do not want pity. Matter of fact I abhor it. However there is a difference between pity and compassion. I have compassion on my fellow human beings just because it's who I am and what's in my heart. I am going through a bit of a situation and it's hurtful, physically and spiritually. Let me explain.
My Typical Day
I wake up about 6:35 am. Either an internal clock or my cat jumping around doing something he isn't suppose to be. I twist and turn to find a comfortable way to look at the bedside clock. I see the time and think "great, it's early, maybe today I can finally make it to work on time." I roll and stretch and stretch and stretch some more. The whole time wincing with pain. I decide about a half hour later, "let me just get up because the pain is not going away." And because I'm still quite stiff and not exactly limber, I bang my knee against my bedpost. I gasp in pain and I think "why is it that I hurt myself whenever I'm in the worse pain?" At times, a tear will trickle but I continue. I make it to the bathroom. I use the toilet. I turn on the shower water--very hot because the steam is suppose to relieve my achy joints. I step into the shower and I slip, almost falling but I don't. I catch myself but not before I stretch my back way more than I should have and I hit my tender hand against a pipe. I wince again and sit in my shower chair. I cry sometimes. I let the water do its thing and I slowly start to massage my hands, knees and neck, in the hot water. I start to lather up slowly, not because I'm trying to be all sensual but because I can't go any faster due to pain and lack of mobility. If it's a good day, I manage to wash my hair. I dry off. I brush my teeth holding onto the sides of the sink because standing longer than 5 minutes hurts like hell. I struggle with the cap of the deodorant and flirt with the idea of not using any! But not wanting to be a big 'ole stink bomb, I struggle until it comes off. I apply deodorant, the whole time wincing and holding my breath. I go to my room and sit on a chair and dress. This part isn't too hard except that it's a very uncomfortable spot and I almost always manage to hit something and make the pain worse. Buttoning up is a problem but I've devised my own plan. I slip on my shoes. If it's a good day, I wear make-up and manage to make it to work looking half decent. But lately it's been mostly bad days. My hair gets barely washed. I mean I do it but not a great job. Brush it? Are you serious? Lately, it gets gathered up and put in a clip. My hair is curly so unless you look very close, it doesn't look that bad. I put on my coat and start going. I stop to lock the door and you guessed it. I wince in pain as I turn the key in the lock. Oh and I've dropped the keys about 4 times first because with the morning pain, my hands are not very strong yet. I start my trek down two flights of stairs one step at a time because my knees have been filling with fluid again, making it very painful to bend. I manage to get to my car and open the door. I literally plop in my seat because I'm holding my breath during my walk to the car. I put the key in the ignition. I've only dropped this once because it's bigger and easier to hang onto. I start the car. I reach over to get my seat belt and I stop mid-air. I hold my breath and attempt again. I get the seat belt on. I let out a big 'ole breath. And I go to work. I've devised a route in which I hardly make any left turns, actually one. Those hurt too much. I get to work. They've provided parking for me. I cross the street. I reach out to open the door and not even a budge! Thank God it's a high people-traffic area and eventually someone pushes it open for me. I walk in and I look at the clock. 9:17 am. I start at 9 am. Oh well I think "maybe tomorrow."
I'm not going to go any further because it's pretty pathetic really. But this is what I go through every day lately. I have had rheumatoid arthritis since I was 8 1/2 years old. I had a hard time as a child, mostly because they had no idea what was wrong at first and I just kept getting worse and worse. And because, well, kids are cruel little creatures aren't they? So yea, it was tough for a bit. But I struggled through it and as I got older, I was able to use medication that I couldn't before and it helped alot. I went through high school pretty much ok. College years were great. I ran around just about as much as anyone else. No I didn't run track but I could skip across a street. Now I'm in my 30's and it seems that the RA is trying to get the best of me. I've tried a few things already but it's just not letting down. So most days are full of pain, uneasiness and yea even moodiness. I'm not worried because I know I will get through it. But I am upset because it has slowed me down. Not just in everyday life but at work. I have not been producing the way I had been and I recently got an unsatisfactory evaluation which I've appealed but no word yet. Worse comes to worse, I won't get an anniversary pay raise. But that's just a few bucks. I'm upset because I have been told that I failed. And I have never been a failure.
I've worked for this agency for the past 10 years and I've had a very good track record. I've gotten promoted quite quickly. I excel at their stupid tests. And I always go beyond my job duties. But none of that matters. This has diminished me. I feel inadequate and I have never felt that way.
I am upset because I work in the field of disability and I expected that they would have had some compassion for a struggling employee trying to remain an employee and not become a client; but instead they are stressing me out and making me feel so damn terrible and inadequate. I mean yes, I could, at 36 years old, apply for Social Security disability and stay home. But I don't want to. I feel that I have more to give to this world and I want to keep giving it.
However, if it weren't for the bills, I would walk out of there tomorrow with my head held high. I'm at a crossroads. You know the place you find yourself in life when you are about to learn a very important lesson. I wonder what it will be.
My Typical Day
I wake up about 6:35 am. Either an internal clock or my cat jumping around doing something he isn't suppose to be. I twist and turn to find a comfortable way to look at the bedside clock. I see the time and think "great, it's early, maybe today I can finally make it to work on time." I roll and stretch and stretch and stretch some more. The whole time wincing with pain. I decide about a half hour later, "let me just get up because the pain is not going away." And because I'm still quite stiff and not exactly limber, I bang my knee against my bedpost. I gasp in pain and I think "why is it that I hurt myself whenever I'm in the worse pain?" At times, a tear will trickle but I continue. I make it to the bathroom. I use the toilet. I turn on the shower water--very hot because the steam is suppose to relieve my achy joints. I step into the shower and I slip, almost falling but I don't. I catch myself but not before I stretch my back way more than I should have and I hit my tender hand against a pipe. I wince again and sit in my shower chair. I cry sometimes. I let the water do its thing and I slowly start to massage my hands, knees and neck, in the hot water. I start to lather up slowly, not because I'm trying to be all sensual but because I can't go any faster due to pain and lack of mobility. If it's a good day, I manage to wash my hair. I dry off. I brush my teeth holding onto the sides of the sink because standing longer than 5 minutes hurts like hell. I struggle with the cap of the deodorant and flirt with the idea of not using any! But not wanting to be a big 'ole stink bomb, I struggle until it comes off. I apply deodorant, the whole time wincing and holding my breath. I go to my room and sit on a chair and dress. This part isn't too hard except that it's a very uncomfortable spot and I almost always manage to hit something and make the pain worse. Buttoning up is a problem but I've devised my own plan. I slip on my shoes. If it's a good day, I wear make-up and manage to make it to work looking half decent. But lately it's been mostly bad days. My hair gets barely washed. I mean I do it but not a great job. Brush it? Are you serious? Lately, it gets gathered up and put in a clip. My hair is curly so unless you look very close, it doesn't look that bad. I put on my coat and start going. I stop to lock the door and you guessed it. I wince in pain as I turn the key in the lock. Oh and I've dropped the keys about 4 times first because with the morning pain, my hands are not very strong yet. I start my trek down two flights of stairs one step at a time because my knees have been filling with fluid again, making it very painful to bend. I manage to get to my car and open the door. I literally plop in my seat because I'm holding my breath during my walk to the car. I put the key in the ignition. I've only dropped this once because it's bigger and easier to hang onto. I start the car. I reach over to get my seat belt and I stop mid-air. I hold my breath and attempt again. I get the seat belt on. I let out a big 'ole breath. And I go to work. I've devised a route in which I hardly make any left turns, actually one. Those hurt too much. I get to work. They've provided parking for me. I cross the street. I reach out to open the door and not even a budge! Thank God it's a high people-traffic area and eventually someone pushes it open for me. I walk in and I look at the clock. 9:17 am. I start at 9 am. Oh well I think "maybe tomorrow."
I'm not going to go any further because it's pretty pathetic really. But this is what I go through every day lately. I have had rheumatoid arthritis since I was 8 1/2 years old. I had a hard time as a child, mostly because they had no idea what was wrong at first and I just kept getting worse and worse. And because, well, kids are cruel little creatures aren't they? So yea, it was tough for a bit. But I struggled through it and as I got older, I was able to use medication that I couldn't before and it helped alot. I went through high school pretty much ok. College years were great. I ran around just about as much as anyone else. No I didn't run track but I could skip across a street. Now I'm in my 30's and it seems that the RA is trying to get the best of me. I've tried a few things already but it's just not letting down. So most days are full of pain, uneasiness and yea even moodiness. I'm not worried because I know I will get through it. But I am upset because it has slowed me down. Not just in everyday life but at work. I have not been producing the way I had been and I recently got an unsatisfactory evaluation which I've appealed but no word yet. Worse comes to worse, I won't get an anniversary pay raise. But that's just a few bucks. I'm upset because I have been told that I failed. And I have never been a failure.
I've worked for this agency for the past 10 years and I've had a very good track record. I've gotten promoted quite quickly. I excel at their stupid tests. And I always go beyond my job duties. But none of that matters. This has diminished me. I feel inadequate and I have never felt that way.
I am upset because I work in the field of disability and I expected that they would have had some compassion for a struggling employee trying to remain an employee and not become a client; but instead they are stressing me out and making me feel so damn terrible and inadequate. I mean yes, I could, at 36 years old, apply for Social Security disability and stay home. But I don't want to. I feel that I have more to give to this world and I want to keep giving it.
However, if it weren't for the bills, I would walk out of there tomorrow with my head held high. I'm at a crossroads. You know the place you find yourself in life when you are about to learn a very important lesson. I wonder what it will be.
I Want To Win (But you can too)!!
Ok 'Tis the Season to be giving and all that so......I'm letting anyone who reads my blog know this:
Ann Bruce is holding a contest and giving away 5 copies of her new book: A Naughty Noelle, which comes out December 21, 2007. It is published by Ellora's Cave so it's going to be a spicy little read. And all you have to do to win is do what I did. You don't know what I did huh? That's ok. Go to her website and you can read all about it!!
http://www.annbruce.net/
Oh she also has a myspace so go request her too so you can keep up on all the latest!!
Don't forget Reading is Sexy!!
Ann Bruce is holding a contest and giving away 5 copies of her new book: A Naughty Noelle, which comes out December 21, 2007. It is published by Ellora's Cave so it's going to be a spicy little read. And all you have to do to win is do what I did. You don't know what I did huh? That's ok. Go to her website and you can read all about it!!
http://www.annbruce.net/
Oh she also has a myspace so go request her too so you can keep up on all the latest!!
Don't forget Reading is Sexy!!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Inclement Weather
Aw crap! It's an ice storm over here. It's suppose to be real crappy weather. Great. Just great! My mom is in town and the week I get her, it has to snow and throw ice. Now I can't take her everywhere that I wanted. That sucks. I'll have to go to Target and get my skip-bo cards cause we gonna play alot of games.
I wanted to take her to the flea market, but now it will be cancelled. That totally sucks! I really wanted to show her a good time. I'm the only one that didn't go to PR this year. All the others did, so I missed her double as much. lol
Anyway, this weather sucks. I wanted a white Christmas, but its not Christmas yet. lol Nobody listens to me. lol Actually I love the way snow looks when its coming down, but I hate it once its on that ground! lol
Ok this is all I have to say about bad weather. lol
I wanted to take her to the flea market, but now it will be cancelled. That totally sucks! I really wanted to show her a good time. I'm the only one that didn't go to PR this year. All the others did, so I missed her double as much. lol
Anyway, this weather sucks. I wanted a white Christmas, but its not Christmas yet. lol Nobody listens to me. lol Actually I love the way snow looks when its coming down, but I hate it once its on that ground! lol
Ok this is all I have to say about bad weather. lol
Let's talk about our co-creator
Well I have been wanting to post this for a very long time. Our lovable, albeit recently occupied, co-creator is so funny. She sends me all these funny text msgs and I wanted to share them with my fan base. I mean let's share the love right? lol
Here are a few of the doozies that she has sent me in the past:
Ok, I wanted to share the very first text msg my husband sent me. Now for those of you that think oh big deal, let me just say that it IS a big deal. Cause my hubby is not a friend of technology. He's a big ole teddy bear of a guy, with big sausages he calls fingers! lol So it takes alot of time for him to text. This is what makes it extra special. Getting those big sausages to hit those tiny keys. lol Anyway, without further ado, here it is:
Ok this is the end of this post. lol Adios!
Here are a few of the doozies that she has sent me in the past:
- Christmas is cancelled!! Apparently you told Santa you were SEXY and he died laughing. Thanks alot liar!!!
- When I see you I smile. When you talk, I'm speechless. When you walk, I stare. Hell, what can i say RETARDS amuse the hell out of me!
- Encouraging words: TOMORROW is not PROMISED! So slap da B@#% you hate TODAY cuz u might not see that hoe tomorrow!!
Ok, I wanted to share the very first text msg my husband sent me. Now for those of you that think oh big deal, let me just say that it IS a big deal. Cause my hubby is not a friend of technology. He's a big ole teddy bear of a guy, with big sausages he calls fingers! lol So it takes alot of time for him to text. This is what makes it extra special. Getting those big sausages to hit those tiny keys. lol Anyway, without further ado, here it is:
- Hi ma. Just writing to let you know that I love you very mucho.
Ok this is the end of this post. lol Adios!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
A Shout-Out for My Latinos!!
OK I'm getting up on the podium so watch out!! LOL First, let's chat about friendship. Me and my co-writer have been friends for about 5 years or so. She probably knows the exact year but I only remember the day. Her hubby and my then boyfriend decided that we should plan a summer outing--against our wills. Neither of us was exactly jumping to meet the other. You see at the time, our significant others' choice of friends was extremely lacking and us being the extreme snobs, did not want to mingle with what we thought was crap!
Anyway we did meet and I think I may have given her a once over before letting her into my car but lo and behold--a friendship was born. And we fight just like the boys do except that we also know each other very well. Sometimes we give each other space and other times, especially me (ha ha) we are all up in each other's face wanting to know why we did such a stupid thing. Anyhow through it all, we have learned to know that the other is not perfect but we love each other in spite of and sometimes even because of the imperfections! Who knew?! LOL
OK so one of what I consider her imperfections (lol) is that she is not a very proud Latina. This of course, has to do with our growing up. I grew up with lots of Puerto Rican pride and I knew of all things Hispanic. I learned very early on that I was not Spanish!!! That's right folks!! Spanish are people of Spanish descent aka born in or from family in Spain. I learned to love the music and the people and the fiestas patronales. I went to Puerto Rico every single summer and many Christmas vacations. So Latin pride was part of growing up for me. My co-writer had a bit of a different upbringing. Don't get me wrong. She likes her roots. She just doesn't love them. LOL And trut be told, she actually cracks me up because she as some peculiar sayings for a Latina--the latest one? "Stop joshing me." she tells me. I nearly snorted my Sprite out my nose! And she's married to a VERY proud Puerto Rican man. I imagine she cracks him up too!
LOL
So my co-writer made a comment in a prior blog about Latinos in power. And I agree with part of her comment except that I don't think abuse of power is a condition that is limited to Latinos/Hispanics. Power is power and most people that attain it, don't know how to handle it. Most are changed by this power. Many lose the power and perhaps it is this fear of losing the power they worked so hard to attain, that makes some minority populations and really people in general, seem to want to hold on to it a little tighter. And sometimes, they come down on fellow Latinos/Hispanics. The problem is that we take it personally. Yea it would be nice if we got cut a break every so often but well, I don't hold it against them. I don't like misuse of power in any ethnic group but I am very proud of my fellow Latinos when they achieve something of substance.
My aunt made a funny yet true comment the other day. I don't normally agree with her so this is Good! LOL
We were talking about the fact that one of our family members is locked away in the "big house" and we needed a favor but no one would do it. I'm not going to get into details. There would have been no breaking of laws and the favor was something that is not out of the ordinary. But no one would do it. And yea, no one we asked was Latino. I'm not saying that was the reason why it wasn't done but I'm trying to set up what my aunt said.
She says "You see the problem is that too many of our youth dedicated themselves to drugs and becoming the law-breakers instead of becoming the cops, the lawyers and the judges."
I have to admit that there is a sour Truth to that. I have known so many intelligent young men AND women throw their lives away. But that is exactly the reason why I don't mind when my Latinos reach some level of power--oh yea I may personally dislike some of these individuals but it's all about the greater good. Eventually we'll get it right.
Anyway we did meet and I think I may have given her a once over before letting her into my car but lo and behold--a friendship was born. And we fight just like the boys do except that we also know each other very well. Sometimes we give each other space and other times, especially me (ha ha) we are all up in each other's face wanting to know why we did such a stupid thing. Anyhow through it all, we have learned to know that the other is not perfect but we love each other in spite of and sometimes even because of the imperfections! Who knew?! LOL
OK so one of what I consider her imperfections (lol) is that she is not a very proud Latina. This of course, has to do with our growing up. I grew up with lots of Puerto Rican pride and I knew of all things Hispanic. I learned very early on that I was not Spanish!!! That's right folks!! Spanish are people of Spanish descent aka born in or from family in Spain. I learned to love the music and the people and the fiestas patronales. I went to Puerto Rico every single summer and many Christmas vacations. So Latin pride was part of growing up for me. My co-writer had a bit of a different upbringing. Don't get me wrong. She likes her roots. She just doesn't love them. LOL And trut be told, she actually cracks me up because she as some peculiar sayings for a Latina--the latest one? "Stop joshing me." she tells me. I nearly snorted my Sprite out my nose! And she's married to a VERY proud Puerto Rican man. I imagine she cracks him up too!
LOL
So my co-writer made a comment in a prior blog about Latinos in power. And I agree with part of her comment except that I don't think abuse of power is a condition that is limited to Latinos/Hispanics. Power is power and most people that attain it, don't know how to handle it. Most are changed by this power. Many lose the power and perhaps it is this fear of losing the power they worked so hard to attain, that makes some minority populations and really people in general, seem to want to hold on to it a little tighter. And sometimes, they come down on fellow Latinos/Hispanics. The problem is that we take it personally. Yea it would be nice if we got cut a break every so often but well, I don't hold it against them. I don't like misuse of power in any ethnic group but I am very proud of my fellow Latinos when they achieve something of substance.
My aunt made a funny yet true comment the other day. I don't normally agree with her so this is Good! LOL
We were talking about the fact that one of our family members is locked away in the "big house" and we needed a favor but no one would do it. I'm not going to get into details. There would have been no breaking of laws and the favor was something that is not out of the ordinary. But no one would do it. And yea, no one we asked was Latino. I'm not saying that was the reason why it wasn't done but I'm trying to set up what my aunt said.
She says "You see the problem is that too many of our youth dedicated themselves to drugs and becoming the law-breakers instead of becoming the cops, the lawyers and the judges."
I have to admit that there is a sour Truth to that. I have known so many intelligent young men AND women throw their lives away. But that is exactly the reason why I don't mind when my Latinos reach some level of power--oh yea I may personally dislike some of these individuals but it's all about the greater good. Eventually we'll get it right.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Short Update to Placate my Fans!
Oh my! I have been away for what seems like forever. So much to blog about and yet I might forget most of it. lolol
Well ok here goes:
Christmas
I cant even walk in my living room. Barely!! I have so many gifts lined up and piled up around the tree. It's not even funny. And I wonder (selfishly I know) if I would get as many gifts as Im giving. lol Nah! I'll be lucky to clear maybe 3 gifts. MAYBE being the operative word. lolol Still I love the shopping and I look forward with anticipation to when the gifts will be uncovered and the paper (which I lovingly spent hours wrapping) ripped to shreds!
Flea Market
I went this weekend and got some real finds. I got the Scrabble board that rotates with all the pieces for $3. Yup. 3 buckaroos. Im so excited!! I also got a few other things, including a gift for my nephew and paid $4 for it! woo hoo!! Im a savvy shopper if I do say so myself. lol It was really good flea weather. But the only rain on my parade was that I remember seeing a beautiful coat rack but I was on the phone with our co-creator and I walked right by it never thinking about it again until yesterday! But if its meant to be it will be there this weekend. Im hoping to go again. I've asked Lola to accompany me. Hopefully she'll go.
Dr's & the copay
you know I wish that insurance companies would lower their co-pay! It's a pain in the pocket when both my boo and I have to go to see the doctor. For instance, this week alone we have THREE appts. That's $60 bucks WITHOUT the prescriptions. sigh... However, I am blessed to have good insurance, but since it's Christmas Im having a scrooge moment and wanted to whine about it.
5 people you meet in heaven
Lola rented this book for me. I loved it. I want to say more about it, but honestly Im drawing a blank. I just wanted to confirm what our co-creator said about it being soo good! It's worth the trip to the library
Mary Mary
This book was so good. It kept me guessing. The action was on going. And you never know who it really is. Truly a well written and thought out book.
The Liars Diary
I want this book for my collection because it reminded me of the movies seven, bone collector and silence of the lambs. It's a thriller and mystery book all rolled up into one. The cast of charachters are well thought out and there are so many twists and turns and surprises that you NEVER (at least I didnt) see them coming!! This is also a page turner and a cant put it down even to eat book!!
The Good Husband of Zebra Drive
For those that loved the NO. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, this is another one that has all those loveable african charachters. Except that this time you see that thru human frailty and love, there is also greed in even the most humblest of hearts....at one time or another. Mma Matuski is now engaged to a wealthy man. She is now grabbing at the independence that she never could afford. It causes her to make some pretty surprising decisions! She's also on a case for the first time on her own! JLB Maketoni is playing a bigger role than normal. In this one, he actually helps out on an investigation for a woman that is very very rude. And of course our wonderful head detective is on a case that seems like it's more "God's will" than a mystery. But in the end the truth shall set them all free. The underlying theme here is Trust. a Good read.
Hispanics in power
Im hispanic. But one thing I've noticed is that when hispanics have a little bit of power they abuse it. They tend to steam roll right over other hispanics. It's like they have been given the crown and have been made kings and queens. I totally despise seeing a hispanic name in power because I know that MOST (and I know our co-creator will balk at this) will just step on their fellow compadre. All so that the "powers that be" wont think they are pulling favorite's and then they will have their power snatched from their grubby little hands!! Oh we've all heard about "the man" but have you really bought into it so that you treat your fellow compadres with such little loyalty? sigh..how sad it is to see.... (and um Lola, this is my own opinion...I dont want to see a huge rebuttle. lol I know I'll see one...a scathing one at that, but dont take up a whole page ok? lol)
The perfect wallet
Why cant a wallet be perfect if its only 5 bucks. It's not the price of the wallet that makes it perfect. Its that it has all the compartments in just the right places and it makes everything I have arranged quite lovely. So as they say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. 5 bucks or 150 bucks. what matters to me is that all my stuff is arranged in the manner that I like. lol Plus I just cant see myself spending more than $20 for a wallet. I just cant. I change them so often that it would KILL me to fork over so much. lol
Well I have so much more to write, but Im so busy at work that I just cant do it. So for now you guys will just have to consider yourselves updated. lol I'll write more when I can. Love you all!! Especially you mom! :)
Well ok here goes:
Christmas
I cant even walk in my living room. Barely!! I have so many gifts lined up and piled up around the tree. It's not even funny. And I wonder (selfishly I know) if I would get as many gifts as Im giving. lol Nah! I'll be lucky to clear maybe 3 gifts. MAYBE being the operative word. lolol Still I love the shopping and I look forward with anticipation to when the gifts will be uncovered and the paper (which I lovingly spent hours wrapping) ripped to shreds!
Flea Market
I went this weekend and got some real finds. I got the Scrabble board that rotates with all the pieces for $3. Yup. 3 buckaroos. Im so excited!! I also got a few other things, including a gift for my nephew and paid $4 for it! woo hoo!! Im a savvy shopper if I do say so myself. lol It was really good flea weather. But the only rain on my parade was that I remember seeing a beautiful coat rack but I was on the phone with our co-creator and I walked right by it never thinking about it again until yesterday! But if its meant to be it will be there this weekend. Im hoping to go again. I've asked Lola to accompany me. Hopefully she'll go.
Dr's & the copay
you know I wish that insurance companies would lower their co-pay! It's a pain in the pocket when both my boo and I have to go to see the doctor. For instance, this week alone we have THREE appts. That's $60 bucks WITHOUT the prescriptions. sigh... However, I am blessed to have good insurance, but since it's Christmas Im having a scrooge moment and wanted to whine about it.
5 people you meet in heaven
Lola rented this book for me. I loved it. I want to say more about it, but honestly Im drawing a blank. I just wanted to confirm what our co-creator said about it being soo good! It's worth the trip to the library
Mary Mary
This book was so good. It kept me guessing. The action was on going. And you never know who it really is. Truly a well written and thought out book.
The Liars Diary
I want this book for my collection because it reminded me of the movies seven, bone collector and silence of the lambs. It's a thriller and mystery book all rolled up into one. The cast of charachters are well thought out and there are so many twists and turns and surprises that you NEVER (at least I didnt) see them coming!! This is also a page turner and a cant put it down even to eat book!!
The Good Husband of Zebra Drive
For those that loved the NO. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, this is another one that has all those loveable african charachters. Except that this time you see that thru human frailty and love, there is also greed in even the most humblest of hearts....at one time or another. Mma Matuski is now engaged to a wealthy man. She is now grabbing at the independence that she never could afford. It causes her to make some pretty surprising decisions! She's also on a case for the first time on her own! JLB Maketoni is playing a bigger role than normal. In this one, he actually helps out on an investigation for a woman that is very very rude. And of course our wonderful head detective is on a case that seems like it's more "God's will" than a mystery. But in the end the truth shall set them all free. The underlying theme here is Trust. a Good read.
Hispanics in power
Im hispanic. But one thing I've noticed is that when hispanics have a little bit of power they abuse it. They tend to steam roll right over other hispanics. It's like they have been given the crown and have been made kings and queens. I totally despise seeing a hispanic name in power because I know that MOST (and I know our co-creator will balk at this) will just step on their fellow compadre. All so that the "powers that be" wont think they are pulling favorite's and then they will have their power snatched from their grubby little hands!! Oh we've all heard about "the man" but have you really bought into it so that you treat your fellow compadres with such little loyalty? sigh..how sad it is to see.... (and um Lola, this is my own opinion...I dont want to see a huge rebuttle. lol I know I'll see one...a scathing one at that, but dont take up a whole page ok? lol)
The perfect wallet
Why cant a wallet be perfect if its only 5 bucks. It's not the price of the wallet that makes it perfect. Its that it has all the compartments in just the right places and it makes everything I have arranged quite lovely. So as they say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. 5 bucks or 150 bucks. what matters to me is that all my stuff is arranged in the manner that I like. lol Plus I just cant see myself spending more than $20 for a wallet. I just cant. I change them so often that it would KILL me to fork over so much. lol
Well I have so much more to write, but Im so busy at work that I just cant do it. So for now you guys will just have to consider yourselves updated. lol I'll write more when I can. Love you all!! Especially you mom! :)
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Mitch Albom--movie or book?
OK I bought Mitch Albom's For One More Day several months ago and it has been sitting on my bookshelf ever since. My mom passed away 10 years ago and the premise of the book appealed to me very much--to be able to have just one more day with that loved one. I bet we'd all want that. My problem is that I'd be really pissed at the end of the day and I'd start cussing God out again like I did 10 years ago and maybe this time He wouldn't be so kind to me. LOL So that's part of the reason why the book is still on my bookshelf unread. I had to be ready to read it.
About two weeks ago, I was shopping at the library (shopping yes!). I call it shopping because I never really have a specific goal when I visit the library. I go about once a month. What I do is I have my empty tote bag with the library logo and I go up and down each aisle perusing different things that stand out and call me and I drop things into the tote until it's full. Then I go to the check-out!! That's why having a great cover is very important--for people like me who like the look of shiny things!! LOL Anyway I walked out with the five people you meet in heaven. The cover isn't particularly outlandish. It was the author's name that jumped at me. I read it and it is absolutely fantastic. If you haven't read it, you should totally go take it out or buy it or borrow it. It's a great read particularly for this time of year when we are trying to get all our ducks in a row so to speak. I will write more about the book itself in another blog.
OK so after having such a fantastic experience with that book imagine my delight when as I watched "Desperate Housewives" last week (did she lose her entire family?? OMG!! can't wait for next episode now!!!), they announced that ABC would be showing the movie adaptation of "For One More Day." I think it may even have been an Oprah pick. I put it on my organizer right away just to remind myself not to make any other appointments at this time. I was so excited even though I hate seeing a movie before the book.
Well, let me say that I couldn't finish watching it. I was bored to death. Excuse the pun. I really just couldn't get interested in the character at least not the present-life character. The movie does this back and forth thing between the past and present and actually even the mother seemed more interesting in the past. The son was not interesting past or present. I am extremely disappointed. I'm going to start the book tonight and then I'll tell you all what I really think. I'm not sure if it's because well, the movie is never better than the book. Or maybe it's the actors. Or maybe the writers were just boring. Or maybe it's just me. But I just did not like the movie. So I'm heading to my bookshelf and I'm tattering some pages tonight!!
About two weeks ago, I was shopping at the library (shopping yes!). I call it shopping because I never really have a specific goal when I visit the library. I go about once a month. What I do is I have my empty tote bag with the library logo and I go up and down each aisle perusing different things that stand out and call me and I drop things into the tote until it's full. Then I go to the check-out!! That's why having a great cover is very important--for people like me who like the look of shiny things!! LOL Anyway I walked out with the five people you meet in heaven. The cover isn't particularly outlandish. It was the author's name that jumped at me. I read it and it is absolutely fantastic. If you haven't read it, you should totally go take it out or buy it or borrow it. It's a great read particularly for this time of year when we are trying to get all our ducks in a row so to speak. I will write more about the book itself in another blog.
OK so after having such a fantastic experience with that book imagine my delight when as I watched "Desperate Housewives" last week (did she lose her entire family?? OMG!! can't wait for next episode now!!!), they announced that ABC would be showing the movie adaptation of "For One More Day." I think it may even have been an Oprah pick. I put it on my organizer right away just to remind myself not to make any other appointments at this time. I was so excited even though I hate seeing a movie before the book.
Well, let me say that I couldn't finish watching it. I was bored to death. Excuse the pun. I really just couldn't get interested in the character at least not the present-life character. The movie does this back and forth thing between the past and present and actually even the mother seemed more interesting in the past. The son was not interesting past or present. I am extremely disappointed. I'm going to start the book tonight and then I'll tell you all what I really think. I'm not sure if it's because well, the movie is never better than the book. Or maybe it's the actors. Or maybe the writers were just boring. Or maybe it's just me. But I just did not like the movie. So I'm heading to my bookshelf and I'm tattering some pages tonight!!
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Leenas' got the Goodies!
Hello all! This is just a quick note to let you all know about my "friend" Leena, over at Leena's Goodie Room (just enter that on any search engine and you'll see). This is a website where you can read about authors and other reading/writing stuff that interests you. Also and I love this part!; you can send Leena a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) and get back a bunch of "goodies."
I had known about Leena's goodie room for a while but I was skeptical. I thought what would she send? A few bookmarks and maybe those signed bookplates? Well, lo and behold, I received my SASE back recently. I had attached about $4.80 in stamps (as she suggests) and I got the best stuff!!
If you've been reading my blog all along, you must know I have a pen fetish (lol-wish i was lying). Well, Leena sent me about 10 different pens. And they all write very nicely. I also got a little trinket box, a coaster, a few magnets, some reading excerpts and tons of bookmarks. Many of these items were signed by the authors! I loved it!
So if you'd like some goodies, head on over to Leena's.
I had known about Leena's goodie room for a while but I was skeptical. I thought what would she send? A few bookmarks and maybe those signed bookplates? Well, lo and behold, I received my SASE back recently. I had attached about $4.80 in stamps (as she suggests) and I got the best stuff!!
If you've been reading my blog all along, you must know I have a pen fetish (lol-wish i was lying). Well, Leena sent me about 10 different pens. And they all write very nicely. I also got a little trinket box, a coaster, a few magnets, some reading excerpts and tons of bookmarks. Many of these items were signed by the authors! I loved it!
So if you'd like some goodies, head on over to Leena's.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Catching Up!!
OK the tyrannical co-creator here!! LOL
I just got through reading my co-writer's updates and I thought, man I really should've read it sooner! It may have saved us some grief this weekend. Anyway, I'll get to that later.
First I am really proud of my friend for finally choosing to use colors in her posts. She tends to just write and write and not even use spellcheck (ahhh the horror!) ; )
OK, question for my friend-- How can anything that cost $5 be perfect?
I think she has a very high expectation for $5. If $5 is what you will pay for perfect, then I have a nice sandwich-sized zippered sealed bag for ya!! LOL My friend here needs a lesson in quality!
Let's face it girl! "Lo barato sale caro!" which means that cheap is sometimes more costly because after buying 20 perfect $5 wallets you have spent $100, whereas if you spend $75 you may actually get a perfect wallet!! Next trip to the outlet, it's on!! No excuses. LOL
Besides the ride to upstate NY was merely 45 minutes because it's just right there at the tippy tip entrance to NY. I did buy my second authentic Coach bag for $120 bucks (total of 60% off what it would have been in the store!!). But I look at it this way--I've bought Guess and Nine West bags at Macy's or other department stores, some have been leather and some haven't, for about $60. So now I have two great quality leather bags and each are really perfect. I have a tote that can carry my life and a hobo bag that I can look all trendy in. LOL
And truth be told, carrying my Coach bag is good for my self-esteem. It's much like when we girls buy and wear really pretty silky lingerie even though no one else will see it. It makes you walk differently. You carry yourself differently. It gives you a self-assurance and a great attitude. I can't really explain it but those that do this should know what I mean.
But I will admit that I've learned a lesson myself now that I treated myself to the real Coach bag. I've learned that my addiction is not simply to Coach bags but to bags in general. So I will continue on my quest for bags, pens and books wherever it leads me (even if I must cross state lines!).
Oh yea--but ask her how far she'd go for some really great jersey knit sheets!!! And by the way the fact that she is her hubby's GPS system is really scary. Let me just say he is going to be lost a lot! LOL I love my girl deeply but she's been known to be lost in a one-block radius! LOL {xoxox for you!}
And another thing--what makes you think that your neighbor wanted a friend? She was just giving you a token of appreciation because you let her use your home to gain access to hers. There is nothing there that says I'm lonely and need a friend (however, it may say I'm stupid and need to smoke less weed--LOL). Anyhow, you gave this stranger entry into your apartment and showed her how easy it is to break in through the windows in your building. If she's a thief, she now has the general layout of your place. Hope you didn't have too many Christmas goodies laying around. This is the prime season for robberies because thieves know that most homes are filled with great stuff right about now. Make sure you lock your windows at all times!! Boobie trap the entrance! She gave you a gift card in appreciation and to throw you off track because if something happens-you'd never think it was her. She was so nice! LOL
See? This is one of the major differences between Nancy and me --she sees the cup half full and I see it half empty. She's the eternal optimist believing in the goodness in people and I'm the constant pessimist knowing that you cannot leave your back turned too long.
OK so now about what we did this weekend. We had plans for Saturday. The thing I have to say in my defense is that I was very tired and stressed out this past week. OK, so my friend loves to shop. I think that's why she likes December because of all the shopping she gets to do. So she made plans for us to go to Big Lots which was fine. I'm sure I would have enjoyed the trip, however, my intention was to give her her birthday gift because we still had not seen each other and just spend time with her. I originally also wanted her to come over my house. I would give my car to my aunt so she could make herself scarce. And she'd have to leave her hubby home so we could actually have girlfriend time.
Don't get this wrong. He was a very gracious host to me this time as well as any other time I come over but you know sometimes you just want to hang with your friend.
Anyway, I'm sure that I did agree to go to Big Lots with her but I wasn't paying close attention because we had the conversation when I was at work this week and work has been dreadful lately.
Oh and by the way, let me just say that when my friend and I lived in the same town, we didn't see each other much but I had a car and I always went to her house. Well at least a couple times a month. LOL And now she moved out of town and she has a car but unless I go to her, I never see her. Yea, I'm complaining! Again! And if she stayed put long enough I may have had the brilliant idea to bring her a friggin cupcake with a candle on it! Cause I've been a broke pigeon too--can't afford the whole cake! LOL
So I erred because I forgot we had to a date to shop and not just a date to hang out. When she called me and she was out in front of my house, she had her hubby call and I merely told him I 'd be down in a few minutes. It was taking me more than a few minutes because I was "in disposed." LOL She called me after about 5 minutes of waiting for me and I told her what I was doing but I'd be down soon. Well, she mistook the strain in my voice from being out all night and going out early in the morning, for not really wanting to go with her. And when she mentioned Big Lots and I was clueless, well that closed the deal. My friend, got all pissy and after she was out front, she left me.
I was going to leave it alone because I really was tired and wanted to go to sleep but then it ate at me because well honestly, because I really needed my friend. So making the story short--we made up and I went to her home. She went to Target after she left all mad at me and shopped away! Her hubby ended up carrying all the bags. Oh yea and get this--she complained about me and he got mad at her!! I think he just wasn't beat to hear her complaining. You know how men are. LOL But well as much as I fight with him and he gets on my nerves, he's like one of my cousins to me. And she, well, I just can't stay mad at her too long. LOL
So see? If I would have read her blog, I would've known what the plans were all along. Reminds me of a famous line in the Woody Woodpecker cartoons:
"If Woody had only gone to the police; This would never have happened." LOL
And as far as books go, we've been reading lots of stuff in between but the next book club reading is officially "the five people we meet in heaven" by Mitch Albom. Pick it up and let's have an online discussion before the end of the month. It's a perfect read for right before the new year!!!
I just got through reading my co-writer's updates and I thought, man I really should've read it sooner! It may have saved us some grief this weekend. Anyway, I'll get to that later.
First I am really proud of my friend for finally choosing to use colors in her posts. She tends to just write and write and not even use spellcheck (ahhh the horror!) ; )
OK, question for my friend-- How can anything that cost $5 be perfect?
I think she has a very high expectation for $5. If $5 is what you will pay for perfect, then I have a nice sandwich-sized zippered sealed bag for ya!! LOL My friend here needs a lesson in quality!
Let's face it girl! "Lo barato sale caro!" which means that cheap is sometimes more costly because after buying 20 perfect $5 wallets you have spent $100, whereas if you spend $75 you may actually get a perfect wallet!! Next trip to the outlet, it's on!! No excuses. LOL
Besides the ride to upstate NY was merely 45 minutes because it's just right there at the tippy tip entrance to NY. I did buy my second authentic Coach bag for $120 bucks (total of 60% off what it would have been in the store!!). But I look at it this way--I've bought Guess and Nine West bags at Macy's or other department stores, some have been leather and some haven't, for about $60. So now I have two great quality leather bags and each are really perfect. I have a tote that can carry my life and a hobo bag that I can look all trendy in. LOL
And truth be told, carrying my Coach bag is good for my self-esteem. It's much like when we girls buy and wear really pretty silky lingerie even though no one else will see it. It makes you walk differently. You carry yourself differently. It gives you a self-assurance and a great attitude. I can't really explain it but those that do this should know what I mean.
But I will admit that I've learned a lesson myself now that I treated myself to the real Coach bag. I've learned that my addiction is not simply to Coach bags but to bags in general. So I will continue on my quest for bags, pens and books wherever it leads me (even if I must cross state lines!).
Oh yea--but ask her how far she'd go for some really great jersey knit sheets!!! And by the way the fact that she is her hubby's GPS system is really scary. Let me just say he is going to be lost a lot! LOL I love my girl deeply but she's been known to be lost in a one-block radius! LOL {xoxox for you!}
And another thing--what makes you think that your neighbor wanted a friend? She was just giving you a token of appreciation because you let her use your home to gain access to hers. There is nothing there that says I'm lonely and need a friend (however, it may say I'm stupid and need to smoke less weed--LOL). Anyhow, you gave this stranger entry into your apartment and showed her how easy it is to break in through the windows in your building. If she's a thief, she now has the general layout of your place. Hope you didn't have too many Christmas goodies laying around. This is the prime season for robberies because thieves know that most homes are filled with great stuff right about now. Make sure you lock your windows at all times!! Boobie trap the entrance! She gave you a gift card in appreciation and to throw you off track because if something happens-you'd never think it was her. She was so nice! LOL
See? This is one of the major differences between Nancy and me --she sees the cup half full and I see it half empty. She's the eternal optimist believing in the goodness in people and I'm the constant pessimist knowing that you cannot leave your back turned too long.
OK so now about what we did this weekend. We had plans for Saturday. The thing I have to say in my defense is that I was very tired and stressed out this past week. OK, so my friend loves to shop. I think that's why she likes December because of all the shopping she gets to do. So she made plans for us to go to Big Lots which was fine. I'm sure I would have enjoyed the trip, however, my intention was to give her her birthday gift because we still had not seen each other and just spend time with her. I originally also wanted her to come over my house. I would give my car to my aunt so she could make herself scarce. And she'd have to leave her hubby home so we could actually have girlfriend time.
Don't get this wrong. He was a very gracious host to me this time as well as any other time I come over but you know sometimes you just want to hang with your friend.
Anyway, I'm sure that I did agree to go to Big Lots with her but I wasn't paying close attention because we had the conversation when I was at work this week and work has been dreadful lately.
Oh and by the way, let me just say that when my friend and I lived in the same town, we didn't see each other much but I had a car and I always went to her house. Well at least a couple times a month. LOL And now she moved out of town and she has a car but unless I go to her, I never see her. Yea, I'm complaining! Again! And if she stayed put long enough I may have had the brilliant idea to bring her a friggin cupcake with a candle on it! Cause I've been a broke pigeon too--can't afford the whole cake! LOL
So I erred because I forgot we had to a date to shop and not just a date to hang out. When she called me and she was out in front of my house, she had her hubby call and I merely told him I 'd be down in a few minutes. It was taking me more than a few minutes because I was "in disposed." LOL She called me after about 5 minutes of waiting for me and I told her what I was doing but I'd be down soon. Well, she mistook the strain in my voice from being out all night and going out early in the morning, for not really wanting to go with her. And when she mentioned Big Lots and I was clueless, well that closed the deal. My friend, got all pissy and after she was out front, she left me.
I was going to leave it alone because I really was tired and wanted to go to sleep but then it ate at me because well honestly, because I really needed my friend. So making the story short--we made up and I went to her home. She went to Target after she left all mad at me and shopped away! Her hubby ended up carrying all the bags. Oh yea and get this--she complained about me and he got mad at her!! I think he just wasn't beat to hear her complaining. You know how men are. LOL But well as much as I fight with him and he gets on my nerves, he's like one of my cousins to me. And she, well, I just can't stay mad at her too long. LOL
So see? If I would have read her blog, I would've known what the plans were all along. Reminds me of a famous line in the Woody Woodpecker cartoons:
"If Woody had only gone to the police; This would never have happened." LOL
And as far as books go, we've been reading lots of stuff in between but the next book club reading is officially "the five people we meet in heaven" by Mitch Albom. Pick it up and let's have an online discussion before the end of the month. It's a perfect read for right before the new year!!!
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Random Thoughts
My Wallet
well I was looking at my favorite wallet so far and I was horrified to see that it was already tearing! I mean for goodness sakes, its only about a month old! But I guess they don't make things like they used to. Who knew that the zipper would break and now the lining where the credit cards go has also torn. Drats! Maybe next time I'll get a better wallet. I know you don't know me, but I'm always on the look out/hunt for the perfect wallet. Of course, unlike our lovable co creator its not a passion that would get me to drive 2 hours upstate, but I've been known to peruse the wallet section in almost every store I've been to. Always searching for the perfect wallet of the moment at least. Lol So what did I learn boys and girls? what bit of wisdom could I pass on to you? Next time I'll pay more than $5 for the 'perfect wallet'.
Men and directions
You know sometimes I really hate stereo types. Sometimes they are so far off the map that I wonder who could have said such a thing. Then there are those that hit the bulls eye every time. A friend once told me a long time ago that stereo types exist because there is some truth to them. How right they were. My husband (God bless his heart) needs a hearing aid. No joke. This morning on the bus we were discussing how he cant hear the tv. I said you are going to be one of those old men that has the tv on 100 and still cant hear it! I said I'm going to ask you to lower it, and you are going to put it on 99 and say to me "see, now I cant hear it at all!". lol Well today he had an errand to run in NY. I told him to take the train TWO stops and it would leave him closer to his destination. He then proceeds to tell me that the C & E train take only 1 stop. So as he gets off the train I tell him again what to do. So what happens? Yup, you guessed it. He took the train ONE stop instead of the TWO that I told him. So He calls me TWICE to ball me out, when it was his mistake. I tell him that how am I going to give him wrong directions if I took that route for 10 years! He did not take kindly to that and promptly hung up on me. lolol Oh well, I was right and he misunderstood. And it amazes me cause um hello if you need to go to 3rd street, then why would you get off at 13th?? that doesn't make sense. ASK directions, READ the signs. lol I'm his personal GPS system. lol
UPDATE: Hubby called and apologized. Said it was his mistake. awww That's it baby...MAN UP! Take responsibility for your mistakes! woo hoo!!
Bluetooth
By the way, why do they call it a bluetooth? It doesnt look anything like a tooth. It is blue, but still, who came up with this name??
I got one. It sucks! It worked for MAYBE 2 weeks and then it went kaput! I can no longer pick up or hang up calls from the thing. Um what's the point of having a bluetooth then? Amazing!! So I called and they said they will send me instructions on how to return it. AND IF its bad they will send me a replacement. ugh! Nice call. Spend $35 and I get a refurbished one! sheesh!! What a colossal waste of time. Thanks alot for taking my money. I cant wait to review this one!
Update: Called Amazon. Their normal return policy is 30 days. Um I bought this in April. However, I put it to the side, then I moved and well you know how it goes. I explain my situation to the guy and he put me on hold and said he'd see what he could do for me. HE DID NOTHING. BUT it was MY mistake, so I'm taking responsibility for it. However, I'm still sending it back to the company itself and seeing if they could replace it. lolol Keep your fingers crossed.
Hulk Hogan & Britney Spears
I feel so bad for the Hulk. He's getting divorced! And the worst part is that he had to hear about it from a REPORTER. Linda...his soon to be ex-wife is nuts and stupid. Page Six says that she likes to Party all the time. hmm?? wonder what that means? In any case, she loves to spend money like its going out of style. Um hello Im sure that Hogan has a few bucks, but he's no Oprah! What a doofus. Let's see how she's going to handle being on her own. Get a job girl! I hear they are hiring at your local McD's!
Britney, when will you learn. Money cannot buy you love. I know you thought to yourself, hey I'll buy me a backup dancer, but girl trust me, they never work out. Just ask JLo. She tried it and failed. And if you don't believe her, then ask Madonna. Girl wake up. Drugs aren't the answer either. And for goodness sakes woman use some panties! I don't need to see EVERYTHING.
GIFT BAGS
Ok, everyone knows that you could buy gift bags at the dollar store. Hell they are everywhere now. So what I did last year was throw as much stuff in gift bags as humanly possible! lol After I gave the recipient their gifts, I took BACK the gift bags! lol This year I had a truck load of gift bags to use! Yay! I had 14. Notice I'm using the PAST tense. That's cause I used up all the ones that I had. I'm still in need of 15 more. lol So I'm going to make a few more trips to the dollar store. sigh..more money down the toilet. lol Let's see how many more gift bags I could recycle again! lol It's good for everyone all around. The environment because the less gift bags sold, the less bags ordered, the less trees are needed to be cut down. The recipient because they have a truck load of them already and they just going to stuff them in a closet. The landlord because there are so many gift bags it just attracts roaches and rats, making the landlord spend a truckload of money on an exterminator. Me, because I don't have to spend as much money next year and it will free up some extra cash so I could buy you a better gift! lol Can you see the logic behind my madness? lol
Our co creator
Ok, see I don't want to post this because she's going to read it, but I think its time that everyone know a few things about our co creator. Now you may not know her, but she's a great person. Seriously. She's kind, beautiful inside and out, vivacious, extremely intelligent (tho at times I wonder where did she put her brain and her common sense), sensitive, caring and beyond compassionate. Oh and I forgot generous. She's a counselor by trade and by heart & soul. She spares no bones if she sees you messing up your life. But at the same time when dealing with extremely sensitive individuals (moi) she will apologize AFTER ripping me a new one. lolol
Anyway, we have been friends for a few years now. We so did not want to meet each other. And when we met....bam! instant friendship!!! We are even closer than the gruesome twosome in our lives! No matter what is going on in our lives we turn to one another and spill all the beans. There is no subject that is taboo between us. lol A couple of heckle and jeckles are we. Sooo, last nite in one of our usual gab fests we decided to meet up this Saturday.
Now why am I blogging about this? Because its been AGES since we last hang out. We do drive by's every few weeks, but this is the first time in ages that we have set a date! We are going to go to Clifton to Big Lots! and the Dollar Tree. I love these 2 stores. Anyway we are going up there to score some cheap gifts cause girl the pockets are light this year for both of us. lol
Well I finished reading The Liars Diary. it was really good. I'll post a review later on. I have to dash off now. Enjoy the read!
well I was looking at my favorite wallet so far and I was horrified to see that it was already tearing! I mean for goodness sakes, its only about a month old! But I guess they don't make things like they used to. Who knew that the zipper would break and now the lining where the credit cards go has also torn. Drats! Maybe next time I'll get a better wallet. I know you don't know me, but I'm always on the look out/hunt for the perfect wallet. Of course, unlike our lovable co creator its not a passion that would get me to drive 2 hours upstate, but I've been known to peruse the wallet section in almost every store I've been to. Always searching for the perfect wallet of the moment at least. Lol So what did I learn boys and girls? what bit of wisdom could I pass on to you? Next time I'll pay more than $5 for the 'perfect wallet'.
Men and directions
You know sometimes I really hate stereo types. Sometimes they are so far off the map that I wonder who could have said such a thing. Then there are those that hit the bulls eye every time. A friend once told me a long time ago that stereo types exist because there is some truth to them. How right they were. My husband (God bless his heart) needs a hearing aid. No joke. This morning on the bus we were discussing how he cant hear the tv. I said you are going to be one of those old men that has the tv on 100 and still cant hear it! I said I'm going to ask you to lower it, and you are going to put it on 99 and say to me "see, now I cant hear it at all!". lol Well today he had an errand to run in NY. I told him to take the train TWO stops and it would leave him closer to his destination. He then proceeds to tell me that the C & E train take only 1 stop. So as he gets off the train I tell him again what to do. So what happens? Yup, you guessed it. He took the train ONE stop instead of the TWO that I told him. So He calls me TWICE to ball me out, when it was his mistake. I tell him that how am I going to give him wrong directions if I took that route for 10 years! He did not take kindly to that and promptly hung up on me. lolol Oh well, I was right and he misunderstood. And it amazes me cause um hello if you need to go to 3rd street, then why would you get off at 13th?? that doesn't make sense. ASK directions, READ the signs. lol I'm his personal GPS system. lol
UPDATE: Hubby called and apologized. Said it was his mistake. awww That's it baby...MAN UP! Take responsibility for your mistakes! woo hoo!!
Bluetooth
By the way, why do they call it a bluetooth? It doesnt look anything like a tooth. It is blue, but still, who came up with this name??
I got one. It sucks! It worked for MAYBE 2 weeks and then it went kaput! I can no longer pick up or hang up calls from the thing. Um what's the point of having a bluetooth then? Amazing!! So I called and they said they will send me instructions on how to return it. AND IF its bad they will send me a replacement. ugh! Nice call. Spend $35 and I get a refurbished one! sheesh!! What a colossal waste of time. Thanks alot for taking my money. I cant wait to review this one!
Update: Called Amazon. Their normal return policy is 30 days. Um I bought this in April. However, I put it to the side, then I moved and well you know how it goes. I explain my situation to the guy and he put me on hold and said he'd see what he could do for me. HE DID NOTHING. BUT it was MY mistake, so I'm taking responsibility for it. However, I'm still sending it back to the company itself and seeing if they could replace it. lolol Keep your fingers crossed.
Hulk Hogan & Britney Spears
I feel so bad for the Hulk. He's getting divorced! And the worst part is that he had to hear about it from a REPORTER. Linda...his soon to be ex-wife is nuts and stupid. Page Six says that she likes to Party all the time. hmm?? wonder what that means? In any case, she loves to spend money like its going out of style. Um hello Im sure that Hogan has a few bucks, but he's no Oprah! What a doofus. Let's see how she's going to handle being on her own. Get a job girl! I hear they are hiring at your local McD's!
Britney, when will you learn. Money cannot buy you love. I know you thought to yourself, hey I'll buy me a backup dancer, but girl trust me, they never work out. Just ask JLo. She tried it and failed. And if you don't believe her, then ask Madonna. Girl wake up. Drugs aren't the answer either. And for goodness sakes woman use some panties! I don't need to see EVERYTHING.
GIFT BAGS
Ok, everyone knows that you could buy gift bags at the dollar store. Hell they are everywhere now. So what I did last year was throw as much stuff in gift bags as humanly possible! lol After I gave the recipient their gifts, I took BACK the gift bags! lol This year I had a truck load of gift bags to use! Yay! I had 14. Notice I'm using the PAST tense. That's cause I used up all the ones that I had. I'm still in need of 15 more. lol So I'm going to make a few more trips to the dollar store. sigh..more money down the toilet. lol Let's see how many more gift bags I could recycle again! lol It's good for everyone all around. The environment because the less gift bags sold, the less bags ordered, the less trees are needed to be cut down. The recipient because they have a truck load of them already and they just going to stuff them in a closet. The landlord because there are so many gift bags it just attracts roaches and rats, making the landlord spend a truckload of money on an exterminator. Me, because I don't have to spend as much money next year and it will free up some extra cash so I could buy you a better gift! lol Can you see the logic behind my madness? lol
Our co creator
Ok, see I don't want to post this because she's going to read it, but I think its time that everyone know a few things about our co creator. Now you may not know her, but she's a great person. Seriously. She's kind, beautiful inside and out, vivacious, extremely intelligent (tho at times I wonder where did she put her brain and her common sense), sensitive, caring and beyond compassionate. Oh and I forgot generous. She's a counselor by trade and by heart & soul. She spares no bones if she sees you messing up your life. But at the same time when dealing with extremely sensitive individuals (moi) she will apologize AFTER ripping me a new one. lolol
Anyway, we have been friends for a few years now. We so did not want to meet each other. And when we met....bam! instant friendship!!! We are even closer than the gruesome twosome in our lives! No matter what is going on in our lives we turn to one another and spill all the beans. There is no subject that is taboo between us. lol A couple of heckle and jeckles are we. Sooo, last nite in one of our usual gab fests we decided to meet up this Saturday.
Now why am I blogging about this? Because its been AGES since we last hang out. We do drive by's every few weeks, but this is the first time in ages that we have set a date! We are going to go to Clifton to Big Lots! and the Dollar Tree. I love these 2 stores. Anyway we are going up there to score some cheap gifts cause girl the pockets are light this year for both of us. lol
Well I finished reading The Liars Diary. it was really good. I'll post a review later on. I have to dash off now. Enjoy the read!
Monday, November 26, 2007
Catching up on my blogging
***Thanksgiving***
It started off great!! I went to Big Lots! and I found so many bargains. I mean I got the Hooked on Phonics Pre-reading pkg for $5. I got TWO Curve perfume sets for $5 each. I got some nice desk frames for $3. I couldn't believe the bargains. I also got a $10 card which I hope to go and claim this week! lol I LOVED this place!!
The turkey was good. I got a chance to reconnect with some of my hubs family. I was mad at one of his cousins for a long time and we got a chance to reconnect. I am not longer mad at her.
***Black Friday***
Normally I don't allow ANYONE to malign this fabulous day. But to be honest I wasn't up and at it this year. I went to Target around 745ish. The place was picked clean!! lol Everything that I wanted wasn't there. lol I couldn't believe it. I did get some bargain towels for $1.99. It was pretty cool. I also got a Spiderman Memory game for $3.99 for my grandson. And some $3.33 sweats. lol It was ok, but for once I concur with my co-creater. Next year I'm sleeping in late! lol
However, there's one difference that I must point out. I would NEVER travel to upstate NY for a purse. I'm not a purse enthusiast! I like them and I definitely have about 9 of them, but I would NEVER travel such a distance. Esp since I think its NUTS to spend more than $35 bucks for a bag. But then again since its not my addiction I cant see doing such a crazy thing. lol
***Christmas & My Husband***
2 of my favorite things in the world. However, yesterday I wanted to kill my husband because he threw out all of my Christmas lights and expensive decorations. I'm not saying he did it on purpose, but the point is that I'm assed out! I turned to freecycle.org to see if I could get someone to donate some lights to me because frankly I'm dead ass broke!!
So my beautiful tree is in the corner all poofed up with no decorations or lights. sigh....how I miss my beautiful colored lights. And what's worse is that I had bought like 6 NEW boxes of lights and now I have NONE. wah!
***Cleaning***
I spent 4 hours cleaning my living room closet and getting prepared for my tree. I was able to find some clothes with tags and then I found the receipts!! So I got back $102 bucks. $90 of which are for my favorite clothing store!! So now I have the money for some new clothes!
***GOD PROVIDES***
Ok, the holiday has me in the poor house. I was and am still in a financial bind. I wont get paid until Friday and I needed some cash for transportation for my hubby and myself. So what do I find? I found a 3 zone bus card for November by my house! So that takes care of SOME of my transport money woes. How good is God???
***Momma's Coming***
omG in a few more days my wonderful mother will be in the US of A. I'm so excited. My mother is so beautiful! I love her so very very much! I cant wait to see her!!
***The Library***
So I went to the library on Saturday. I walked out of there with 10 books. omG. I had so missed the library!! I do have to say that the librarian was a bit snippy! She felt like a complete idiot when the book that she insisted was on the shelves, wasn't there, even when SHE went looking for it. That was a smile vindication for treating me as if I couldn't spell! lol 1 for me and 0 for the snooty librarian! lol
***The Laundromat***
I had to go to the laundromat to do my clothes. And it always amazes me how much I hate it. Both the laundromat and the chore of doing laundry! lol Who knew that I would miss having a machine in my house so much. lol
***Neighbor***
About 2 weeks ago my neighbor locked herself out. She came in and crawled thru our window into her place. She was so grateful. She even gave me a card with a gift card in it. Child I was so happy! My husband said that perhaps she is looking for a friend but doesn't know how to ask for one. That maybe she is trying to buy friendship. I thought about this and showed up at her 2 with 2 cupcakes! However, she was on the phone at the time and could only spare me a few mins. So then I thought to myself, if she really wanted a friend she could have told whomever was on the phone to call back. So I decided that she wasn't looking for a friend. She's merely a really nice and generous person. So that relieves me from trying to befriend her. And now I could go back to disliking her two barking dogs. lol
***Mac N Cheese***
I tried making this from scratch. I think I put too much mozzarella. It wasn't a success. I made too much. Moral of the story: Never make this again. lol
***A Christmas Story - the movie***
I LOVE this movie. And I see that it has begun airing. If you get a chance please take a moment and watch it. This movie has even inspired a museum. Google it. From time to time you'll see one of the main plots....a fish net leg that's made into a lamp. It's a really cute story about this kid who wants a Red Rider BB Gun for Christmas. And everyone is in cahoots against him saying "you'll shoot your eye out". He's very imaginative and the characters are so likeable that you'll find yourself wishing you lived in that era gone by.
***Birthday Gift***
My sister -- the blond one --- gave me Season 9 of Friends for my birthday. I was pretty happy about it. I now have Seasons 1, 9 and 10. lol
I did miss getting a slice of birthday cake. My husband was broke and couldn't afford one and so was I. I didn't realize how much I missed someone buying me a birthday cake. I wish my family would get together and buy me one.
***2 Upcoming Birthdays***
My brothers birthday is on Friday. My sisters is in January. I already got my sister her bday gift. King size sheets. lol When I called and told her that I had already got her gift, she said how? I didn't tell you what I wanted. I said cause I know that you need. And if I know my sister correctly, she only has 1 set of sheets. OK maybe 2, but that's it. So I took it upon myself to give her a nice set of flannel sheets. I wish I could give her more, but that's what I could afford.
Now my brother is a challenge. But I'm thinking more along the lines of underwear, socks and t-shirts. Hey what can I say?? I'm a practical chick at heart!
Well this is all for now. I just wanted to update the old blog here. and I wanted to satisfy our co-creators demand for an update. What a tyrant! lol
It started off great!! I went to Big Lots! and I found so many bargains. I mean I got the Hooked on Phonics Pre-reading pkg for $5. I got TWO Curve perfume sets for $5 each. I got some nice desk frames for $3. I couldn't believe the bargains. I also got a $10 card which I hope to go and claim this week! lol I LOVED this place!!
The turkey was good. I got a chance to reconnect with some of my hubs family. I was mad at one of his cousins for a long time and we got a chance to reconnect. I am not longer mad at her.
***Black Friday***
Normally I don't allow ANYONE to malign this fabulous day. But to be honest I wasn't up and at it this year. I went to Target around 745ish. The place was picked clean!! lol Everything that I wanted wasn't there. lol I couldn't believe it. I did get some bargain towels for $1.99. It was pretty cool. I also got a Spiderman Memory game for $3.99 for my grandson. And some $3.33 sweats. lol It was ok, but for once I concur with my co-creater. Next year I'm sleeping in late! lol
However, there's one difference that I must point out. I would NEVER travel to upstate NY for a purse. I'm not a purse enthusiast! I like them and I definitely have about 9 of them, but I would NEVER travel such a distance. Esp since I think its NUTS to spend more than $35 bucks for a bag. But then again since its not my addiction I cant see doing such a crazy thing. lol
***Christmas & My Husband***
2 of my favorite things in the world. However, yesterday I wanted to kill my husband because he threw out all of my Christmas lights and expensive decorations. I'm not saying he did it on purpose, but the point is that I'm assed out! I turned to freecycle.org to see if I could get someone to donate some lights to me because frankly I'm dead ass broke!!
So my beautiful tree is in the corner all poofed up with no decorations or lights. sigh....how I miss my beautiful colored lights. And what's worse is that I had bought like 6 NEW boxes of lights and now I have NONE. wah!
***Cleaning***
I spent 4 hours cleaning my living room closet and getting prepared for my tree. I was able to find some clothes with tags and then I found the receipts!! So I got back $102 bucks. $90 of which are for my favorite clothing store!! So now I have the money for some new clothes!
***GOD PROVIDES***
Ok, the holiday has me in the poor house. I was and am still in a financial bind. I wont get paid until Friday and I needed some cash for transportation for my hubby and myself. So what do I find? I found a 3 zone bus card for November by my house! So that takes care of SOME of my transport money woes. How good is God???
***Momma's Coming***
omG in a few more days my wonderful mother will be in the US of A. I'm so excited. My mother is so beautiful! I love her so very very much! I cant wait to see her!!
***The Library***
So I went to the library on Saturday. I walked out of there with 10 books. omG. I had so missed the library!! I do have to say that the librarian was a bit snippy! She felt like a complete idiot when the book that she insisted was on the shelves, wasn't there, even when SHE went looking for it. That was a smile vindication for treating me as if I couldn't spell! lol 1 for me and 0 for the snooty librarian! lol
***The Laundromat***
I had to go to the laundromat to do my clothes. And it always amazes me how much I hate it. Both the laundromat and the chore of doing laundry! lol Who knew that I would miss having a machine in my house so much. lol
***Neighbor***
About 2 weeks ago my neighbor locked herself out. She came in and crawled thru our window into her place. She was so grateful. She even gave me a card with a gift card in it. Child I was so happy! My husband said that perhaps she is looking for a friend but doesn't know how to ask for one. That maybe she is trying to buy friendship. I thought about this and showed up at her 2 with 2 cupcakes! However, she was on the phone at the time and could only spare me a few mins. So then I thought to myself, if she really wanted a friend she could have told whomever was on the phone to call back. So I decided that she wasn't looking for a friend. She's merely a really nice and generous person. So that relieves me from trying to befriend her. And now I could go back to disliking her two barking dogs. lol
***Mac N Cheese***
I tried making this from scratch. I think I put too much mozzarella. It wasn't a success. I made too much. Moral of the story: Never make this again. lol
***A Christmas Story - the movie***
I LOVE this movie. And I see that it has begun airing. If you get a chance please take a moment and watch it. This movie has even inspired a museum. Google it. From time to time you'll see one of the main plots....a fish net leg that's made into a lamp. It's a really cute story about this kid who wants a Red Rider BB Gun for Christmas. And everyone is in cahoots against him saying "you'll shoot your eye out". He's very imaginative and the characters are so likeable that you'll find yourself wishing you lived in that era gone by.
***Birthday Gift***
My sister -- the blond one --- gave me Season 9 of Friends for my birthday. I was pretty happy about it. I now have Seasons 1, 9 and 10. lol
I did miss getting a slice of birthday cake. My husband was broke and couldn't afford one and so was I. I didn't realize how much I missed someone buying me a birthday cake. I wish my family would get together and buy me one.
***2 Upcoming Birthdays***
My brothers birthday is on Friday. My sisters is in January. I already got my sister her bday gift. King size sheets. lol When I called and told her that I had already got her gift, she said how? I didn't tell you what I wanted. I said cause I know that you need. And if I know my sister correctly, she only has 1 set of sheets. OK maybe 2, but that's it. So I took it upon myself to give her a nice set of flannel sheets. I wish I could give her more, but that's what I could afford.
Now my brother is a challenge. But I'm thinking more along the lines of underwear, socks and t-shirts. Hey what can I say?? I'm a practical chick at heart!
Well this is all for now. I just wanted to update the old blog here. and I wanted to satisfy our co-creators demand for an update. What a tyrant! lol
Friday, November 23, 2007
FRIGGIN' BLACK FRIDAY
What a Thanksgiving Day!! I went to a friend's house early in the day. I had not decided to go until last minute. My friend Jessica talked me into it. She wouldn't go unless I did and it's her family!!
Well I relented as long as she was my designated driver! She agreed. Yay!
I had wine (red-yuck because it makes my head hurt later) and I had some Coquito (OMG yum)! For those who don't know what it is, it is a traditional alcoholic drink in Puerto Rico made from mostly coconut milk and Bacardi! What could go wrong with that? LOL
OK so I had a good time (probably cuz I was drunk and smiled all thru it). We got there at 2 pm and left about 6:30 pm. Then we went to to my house. Jessica drove. We had Thanksgiving dinner there. We left my house at 8:30 pm (I drove this time) and went to the heights to pick up Margarita then off to Montclair to pick up Erica, who was going to drive all of us to Woodbury Commons in Harriman NY. We had planned this a few weeks ago. We wanted to see what kind of deal we could get at Coach.
I have never been Black Friday shopping at all!! I just couldn't seem to get out of bed for a DVD player or a TV. But I do have a thing with handbags (ok it's an addiction!-sheesh!) and this was at night so I didn't have to get up. I just couldn't go to sleep.
So we get to the mall at about 9:55 and get in line at the Coach store. I had no idea it was going to be like that. It was chilly and I had not changed clothes from earlier in the evening when it was warmer out. The line went quickly. The people from Coach handed out candy--Tootsie rolls mostly. I was thinking a nice cup of hot chocolate would be much better but beggars can't be choosers right? We get inside the store about 10:53 pm!!
I have to tell the truth. I love Coach bags but those darn holiday patchwork bags are FUGLEY! And at first they were all I saw. Then I started to see other things. Truthfully, the specials were not much different from any other day except they did hand you an extra 10% off coupon at the door. Most bags were 20% off. Some were 40% off. There was this one bag that would've amounted to $92. And if your sole concern was just to own a Coach bag you could've walked away with that--a signature Jacquard print hobo style bag in lime green. It makes a statement.
Well I was a bit sad because I had not intended to spend much but there was this bag that I totally adore and it's a perfect size so I decided why not? I spent about $150 which is actually about 50% off retail price. It's pebbled leather tote style in dark brown. The inside lining is vibrant purple. At the register, I almost forgot to give her my 10% off coupon and if I had forgotten, she would not have given it to me!! Which made me wonder what is the point of that? A total waste of paper. I hope it was recycled paper! I mean if you can only get through the front door and that's when you get a coupon; then doesn't it make better sense to just put a big sign that says10% off total order, not hand out any coupons, and just give everyone that comes up to the register the damn extra 10% off? Well I thought so.
Anyhow took the four of us like 1/2 hr -45 mins to shop. Then we all left store out a side entrance. At this point it was pure friggin chaos!! Lines like you wouldn't believe in every single store--Gap, Timberland, Polo, Nautica. Security was probably tighter than the President's. It was a crazy mess but we'd done our shopping so we were ready to go.
We start walking to parking lot and not one of the FOUR of us knew where the hell the car was!!!!! Froze my ass off looking. Serious. I couldn't feel my butt cheeks for hours!! But finally we found the car about an hour and half later.
Let me just say that I'm glad we went early because coming back down, we saw the line going up. Bumper to bumper dead stand still for like 20 miles!!! I would've died! And there was no way to turn around if you changed your mind. I felt really bad for those people. I got home about 3:30 am after dropping off Jessica and Margarita.
I had to work today black Friday for the first time in 10 years of working wit the state of NJ! I'm not complaining. I'm stating a mere fact. So I set my alarm for 8 am!! I get a phone call at 7:50 am from a well-meaning aunt, to ask if I was going to work. I got jipped my last 10 minutes of sleep!! Don't you hate when that happens?
So I got up, attempted some hygiene and headed to work. Food shops were closed by work so I stopped at McDonald's on the way. They ran out of coffee!!! How the hell does that happen? So then I had to wait in the drive thru line though I wasn't buying anything because once you are in, there's no way out.
I finally went to a Burger King who did have coffee but no cini-minis!! So I got that and made it to work on time.
So what did I learn about Black Friday--well, it's just not for me. I mean unless they are giving away a free handbag or some books, I'd rather wait until after Thanksgiving. Much of the time you'll find that they've replenished what sold out on black Friday and it's still at the same discounted price and if it gets closer to Christmas, it may even have a better discount! You could even do Black Friday online!! So nope never again.
Well I relented as long as she was my designated driver! She agreed. Yay!
I had wine (red-yuck because it makes my head hurt later) and I had some Coquito (OMG yum)! For those who don't know what it is, it is a traditional alcoholic drink in Puerto Rico made from mostly coconut milk and Bacardi! What could go wrong with that? LOL
OK so I had a good time (probably cuz I was drunk and smiled all thru it). We got there at 2 pm and left about 6:30 pm. Then we went to to my house. Jessica drove. We had Thanksgiving dinner there. We left my house at 8:30 pm (I drove this time) and went to the heights to pick up Margarita then off to Montclair to pick up Erica, who was going to drive all of us to Woodbury Commons in Harriman NY. We had planned this a few weeks ago. We wanted to see what kind of deal we could get at Coach.
I have never been Black Friday shopping at all!! I just couldn't seem to get out of bed for a DVD player or a TV. But I do have a thing with handbags (ok it's an addiction!-sheesh!) and this was at night so I didn't have to get up. I just couldn't go to sleep.
So we get to the mall at about 9:55 and get in line at the Coach store. I had no idea it was going to be like that. It was chilly and I had not changed clothes from earlier in the evening when it was warmer out. The line went quickly. The people from Coach handed out candy--Tootsie rolls mostly. I was thinking a nice cup of hot chocolate would be much better but beggars can't be choosers right? We get inside the store about 10:53 pm!!
I have to tell the truth. I love Coach bags but those darn holiday patchwork bags are FUGLEY! And at first they were all I saw. Then I started to see other things. Truthfully, the specials were not much different from any other day except they did hand you an extra 10% off coupon at the door. Most bags were 20% off. Some were 40% off. There was this one bag that would've amounted to $92. And if your sole concern was just to own a Coach bag you could've walked away with that--a signature Jacquard print hobo style bag in lime green. It makes a statement.
Well I was a bit sad because I had not intended to spend much but there was this bag that I totally adore and it's a perfect size so I decided why not? I spent about $150 which is actually about 50% off retail price. It's pebbled leather tote style in dark brown. The inside lining is vibrant purple. At the register, I almost forgot to give her my 10% off coupon and if I had forgotten, she would not have given it to me!! Which made me wonder what is the point of that? A total waste of paper. I hope it was recycled paper! I mean if you can only get through the front door and that's when you get a coupon; then doesn't it make better sense to just put a big sign that says10% off total order, not hand out any coupons, and just give everyone that comes up to the register the damn extra 10% off? Well I thought so.
Anyhow took the four of us like 1/2 hr -45 mins to shop. Then we all left store out a side entrance. At this point it was pure friggin chaos!! Lines like you wouldn't believe in every single store--Gap, Timberland, Polo, Nautica. Security was probably tighter than the President's. It was a crazy mess but we'd done our shopping so we were ready to go.
We start walking to parking lot and not one of the FOUR of us knew where the hell the car was!!!!! Froze my ass off looking. Serious. I couldn't feel my butt cheeks for hours!! But finally we found the car about an hour and half later.
Let me just say that I'm glad we went early because coming back down, we saw the line going up. Bumper to bumper dead stand still for like 20 miles!!! I would've died! And there was no way to turn around if you changed your mind. I felt really bad for those people. I got home about 3:30 am after dropping off Jessica and Margarita.
I had to work today black Friday for the first time in 10 years of working wit the state of NJ! I'm not complaining. I'm stating a mere fact. So I set my alarm for 8 am!! I get a phone call at 7:50 am from a well-meaning aunt, to ask if I was going to work. I got jipped my last 10 minutes of sleep!! Don't you hate when that happens?
So I got up, attempted some hygiene and headed to work. Food shops were closed by work so I stopped at McDonald's on the way. They ran out of coffee!!! How the hell does that happen? So then I had to wait in the drive thru line though I wasn't buying anything because once you are in, there's no way out.
I finally went to a Burger King who did have coffee but no cini-minis!! So I got that and made it to work on time.
So what did I learn about Black Friday--well, it's just not for me. I mean unless they are giving away a free handbag or some books, I'd rather wait until after Thanksgiving. Much of the time you'll find that they've replenished what sold out on black Friday and it's still at the same discounted price and if it gets closer to Christmas, it may even have a better discount! You could even do Black Friday online!! So nope never again.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Recap of my Birthday and Other Events
Birthdays suck! At least mine did. Let me start off by saying that the absolute highlight of my day was when my mom called me at 9 am! Then my brother Juan called. Then I called my sister (the blond one) cause we were suppose to meet up and get my bday gift. And being the blond that she is, she totally forgot it and left it at home. Sucker! So I still got up and trekked it to my lil sister's house cause I promised to take her on an errand. Remind me never to do this on my bday. It took 45 mins to get her out the house and that was with my help in getting Wiggles ready. OMG. She's such a slow poke. However is she going to handle it with 2 girls! lol A house full of hormones and 'tudes! lol Good thing we don't live close to one another. lolol Anyway, the day was cloudy and rainy, the sun decided to stay in and sleep yesterday. Such a dreary day. And to make matters worse I had a stinking cold! ugh! I had to drop my hubs off at his friends house. Which btw, I wish his "friends" would just drop off the face of the planet. I cant stand his "friends". I officially like only 3 of his friends. The rest are a bunch of boneheads, but that's the topic for another blog entry. lol
Anyway, I'm with my sister and Wiggles. She's so cute...Wiggles that is. My sister is beautiful when she isn't mad. lol So off we go to Target, the mall and Rite Aid. Ugh it was 2:30pm and I'm in "whore-boken" trying to get gas, but the BP had none. Luckily the Hess station next door had some as I was running on Empty. But they were 2.97 a gallon. Um hello, how expensive is gas! One month ago it was 2.49 and now its 2.97. My sister was amazed. I was like yeah, u and J don't know how much gas it costs me to get this car up and around. I don't mind doing things to help you both out, but this car runs on gas and not on good intentions. They always need help and never do they say here's $5 for gas. All they do is get into one fix or the other. And then either me or my hubs has to come to the rescue. I got to tell you that I'm up to my eyeballs already. Totally fed up. But we keep helping cause of Wiggles and Gordo. If it wasn't for those 2 innocent babies, we'd be OK with letting them sink in the river of their own man made problems. Sometimes our co creator is totally right. I need to learn to live in a selfish way. But alas, I don't have that heart right now. But I'm going to pray to have God help me harden my heart! Cause honestly I'm sick of being superwoman! I'm not God. It's that everyone else thinks I am.
Anyway, the other highlight of the day was when my hubs decided to cook dinner. He shooed me...OK he KICKED me out the kitchen a few times, but then kept calling me back in to check on things. Like: Is that enough water? (put enough water to make rice for 10 people), Why do you need to put oil on the chops? (cause we want the seasoning to stick to it. Only put a little not 1/2 cup or any of the likes), The rice is dry, should I build the beehive? (a tip my mom taught me years ago.) I must have gotten up a few more times than this, but whatever...the point is that he tried. For the first time making white rice it came out OK. A teensy bit hard, but really it was OK. And the pork chops were a little over cooked. But then again it might have just been me. I prefer to eat my food piping hot and plucked fresh from the burning hot oil! lol Otherwise the food was good. Three stars for my boo for trying! :)
My brother Migs never called me. humph! what nerves. If I did that to him he would totally freak out. I'm debating whether to call him or not.
Over the weekend my sister in law came over. I love when she visits. We trekked out to the flea market. Oh such wonderful finds! I love going over there. I got a restaurant quality 6 1/2 quart sauce pan. I also got this thingy for the middle of the table that's very cute and old fashion. My boo loved it. I was talking to my brother about it and he said that next time I go to the flea market that he'll make the trip out with me. So that's good. He also invited me to a bingo when momma comes down. I need to buy me a digital camera and soon cause I don't want to miss all the important events coming up. I'm so mad that those losers stole my camera. A pox on them all! lol
So tonite I'm heading over to Target. They have a huge sale. I'm taking 2 of the gift cards that I got and buying some toys for the kids instead. I'll be saving quite a bit. Also I'm trying to figure out what to give my father in law. He doesn't like cheap clothes and I'm not about to spend a bundle on nice ones. lol So let's see. I say a cologne sounds about right. lol I don't want to spend more than $20 on anyone's gift except my momma's and bugr's. lol Yeah I spoil those 2 but what can I say. I love them. Ima do what I got to do for them. lol
Oh and did you say the snow this morning? I wish I could have seen it from the comfort of my bed. lol I'm so sleepy. I woke up late cause I didn't want to get out of bed. But lately I haven't been able to sleep the nite thru. I've been getting up 2, 3 or 4 times a nite. Very disturbing cause I could sleep the nite away normally. I must be getting old.
Work is crazy. We're getting ready for next week's conference. I'll be ready to pull out my hair next week. They driving me nutso! Thank God for printing services. I'd be crying right about now if it weren't for them. lol Big jobs, tight time frame.
Nip/Tuck. OMG. I love this season. It's so exciting. A little too oversexed for me, but hey that's what sells right? For me I love seeing the lives of these characters unravel or ravel right before my very eyes. I was dead on with Matt last nite. The only curve ball was that he was still with Kimber. I couldn't believe the transformation. Wow! I look forward to seeing the rest of the season.
Speaking of seasons. How much do I love Christmas. alot! However, I'm sick of giving gifts out. I give out so many gifts and I might get 2 or 3 gifts. I know it's all about giving, but honestly I'm tired. I give everyone's kids and I don't get anything back for my step-kids or my grandson. Well to be fair my blond sister has always given my daughter and grandson. But everyone else ignores them. Then I'm the Grinch and the bad titi if I don't give. I'm sick sick sick of it I tell you! I want to get some gifts this year! lol OK the selfish tantrum is over.
Well I had so much to say but I'm feeling kinda lazy so I'll end it here cause I'm tired and not in a real chatty mood. But since I haven't posted in a hot minute.
Anyway, I'm with my sister and Wiggles. She's so cute...Wiggles that is. My sister is beautiful when she isn't mad. lol So off we go to Target, the mall and Rite Aid. Ugh it was 2:30pm and I'm in "whore-boken" trying to get gas, but the BP had none. Luckily the Hess station next door had some as I was running on Empty. But they were 2.97 a gallon. Um hello, how expensive is gas! One month ago it was 2.49 and now its 2.97. My sister was amazed. I was like yeah, u and J don't know how much gas it costs me to get this car up and around. I don't mind doing things to help you both out, but this car runs on gas and not on good intentions. They always need help and never do they say here's $5 for gas. All they do is get into one fix or the other. And then either me or my hubs has to come to the rescue. I got to tell you that I'm up to my eyeballs already. Totally fed up. But we keep helping cause of Wiggles and Gordo. If it wasn't for those 2 innocent babies, we'd be OK with letting them sink in the river of their own man made problems. Sometimes our co creator is totally right. I need to learn to live in a selfish way. But alas, I don't have that heart right now. But I'm going to pray to have God help me harden my heart! Cause honestly I'm sick of being superwoman! I'm not God. It's that everyone else thinks I am.
Anyway, the other highlight of the day was when my hubs decided to cook dinner. He shooed me...OK he KICKED me out the kitchen a few times, but then kept calling me back in to check on things. Like: Is that enough water? (put enough water to make rice for 10 people), Why do you need to put oil on the chops? (cause we want the seasoning to stick to it. Only put a little not 1/2 cup or any of the likes), The rice is dry, should I build the beehive? (a tip my mom taught me years ago.) I must have gotten up a few more times than this, but whatever...the point is that he tried. For the first time making white rice it came out OK. A teensy bit hard, but really it was OK. And the pork chops were a little over cooked. But then again it might have just been me. I prefer to eat my food piping hot and plucked fresh from the burning hot oil! lol Otherwise the food was good. Three stars for my boo for trying! :)
My brother Migs never called me. humph! what nerves. If I did that to him he would totally freak out. I'm debating whether to call him or not.
Over the weekend my sister in law came over. I love when she visits. We trekked out to the flea market. Oh such wonderful finds! I love going over there. I got a restaurant quality 6 1/2 quart sauce pan. I also got this thingy for the middle of the table that's very cute and old fashion. My boo loved it. I was talking to my brother about it and he said that next time I go to the flea market that he'll make the trip out with me. So that's good. He also invited me to a bingo when momma comes down. I need to buy me a digital camera and soon cause I don't want to miss all the important events coming up. I'm so mad that those losers stole my camera. A pox on them all! lol
So tonite I'm heading over to Target. They have a huge sale. I'm taking 2 of the gift cards that I got and buying some toys for the kids instead. I'll be saving quite a bit. Also I'm trying to figure out what to give my father in law. He doesn't like cheap clothes and I'm not about to spend a bundle on nice ones. lol So let's see. I say a cologne sounds about right. lol I don't want to spend more than $20 on anyone's gift except my momma's and bugr's. lol Yeah I spoil those 2 but what can I say. I love them. Ima do what I got to do for them. lol
Oh and did you say the snow this morning? I wish I could have seen it from the comfort of my bed. lol I'm so sleepy. I woke up late cause I didn't want to get out of bed. But lately I haven't been able to sleep the nite thru. I've been getting up 2, 3 or 4 times a nite. Very disturbing cause I could sleep the nite away normally. I must be getting old.
Work is crazy. We're getting ready for next week's conference. I'll be ready to pull out my hair next week. They driving me nutso! Thank God for printing services. I'd be crying right about now if it weren't for them. lol Big jobs, tight time frame.
Nip/Tuck. OMG. I love this season. It's so exciting. A little too oversexed for me, but hey that's what sells right? For me I love seeing the lives of these characters unravel or ravel right before my very eyes. I was dead on with Matt last nite. The only curve ball was that he was still with Kimber. I couldn't believe the transformation. Wow! I look forward to seeing the rest of the season.
Speaking of seasons. How much do I love Christmas. alot! However, I'm sick of giving gifts out. I give out so many gifts and I might get 2 or 3 gifts. I know it's all about giving, but honestly I'm tired. I give everyone's kids and I don't get anything back for my step-kids or my grandson. Well to be fair my blond sister has always given my daughter and grandson. But everyone else ignores them. Then I'm the Grinch and the bad titi if I don't give. I'm sick sick sick of it I tell you! I want to get some gifts this year! lol OK the selfish tantrum is over.
Well I had so much to say but I'm feeling kinda lazy so I'll end it here cause I'm tired and not in a real chatty mood. But since I haven't posted in a hot minute.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Musings
I was driving past Lincoln Park last Sunday. It is illegal to park along the park drives. They have several parking lots. So as I was driving by, I was very surprised to see about 50 or maybe more illegally parked cars. I was thinking they must have a carnival at the park but I didn't see any banners or music or vendor stands. So I sarcastically thought--"they must be giving something away for free!"
Then I see the mass exodus coming from the church at the entrance to the park. There were a lot of people there--old, young, teens, babies. Some were walking home and others getting into their cars. I was really impressed for a couple of reasons. One, it's not even Christmas! And two, none of the cars had tickets. I guess what they were giving away was love.
Then I see the mass exodus coming from the church at the entrance to the park. There were a lot of people there--old, young, teens, babies. Some were walking home and others getting into their cars. I was really impressed for a couple of reasons. One, it's not even Christmas! And two, none of the cars had tickets. I guess what they were giving away was love.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell
My friend & co-writer introduced me to Lillian Jackson Braun, who is the writer of "The Cat Who...." series, a while back. She has always been saying how great this particular series in which two cats, KoKo and Yum-Yum play pivotal parts. I am a cat-owner and animal lover so I finally relented and chose a book. I chose "The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell."
I have to say it really was lite reading--so lite it was fluffy! LOL
Seriously, it wasn't bad. The plot was OK. It was a, well I guess you can call it a murder mystery. And the smartest clue seekers are the cats. And everyone in town has a cat. Oh and the cutest is the cat in the library--he's the bibliocat!! Isn't that cute?? It was a cute easy reading for a lazy Sunday afternoon, however it's just not for me. I prefer more action--the man who cheats and gets his due, karma at work, the psych killer or the nice racy love scene ;) -
Just can't see any of that happening in a book where two of the main characters are KoKo and Yum-Yum.
I have to say it really was lite reading--so lite it was fluffy! LOL
Seriously, it wasn't bad. The plot was OK. It was a, well I guess you can call it a murder mystery. And the smartest clue seekers are the cats. And everyone in town has a cat. Oh and the cutest is the cat in the library--he's the bibliocat!! Isn't that cute?? It was a cute easy reading for a lazy Sunday afternoon, however it's just not for me. I prefer more action--the man who cheats and gets his due, karma at work, the psych killer or the nice racy love scene ;) -
Just can't see any of that happening in a book where two of the main characters are KoKo and Yum-Yum.
El Cantante--A Great Addition--Get it!!
OK I'm not picking on my friend so I want to say this right off the bat. My opinion is just slightly different than hers on the recent "El Cantante" movie which depicts the infamous Puerto Rican music legend--Hector Lavoe.
First Jennifer. She was OK. I'd give her 3 out of 5 stars. But it may be the way the story was written. They set up the movie as though they were interviewing Hector's wife and giving us his story through her eyes. I don't think it's so much that I didn't like Jennifer as that I didn't like his wife. Many people believe that she was the reason he got started on his drugs. But that would be blaming somebody instead of making him responsible for his addiction. I am not sure who started drugs first but both Hector and his wife were drug addicts. Her brother was a dealer and it is believed he provided Hector with what he needed. It's just that Hector's addiction led to a shortened life of a very talented singer so the focus is on him.
Marc Anthony was totally excellent in his portrayal of this legend. Of course Marc also has a great singing voice and is a legend in his own right.
While this movie does portray a very tragic life brought to a close by drug addiction and the irresponsible behaviors that go hand in hand with it that led Hector to be one of "the ones" with HIV in the 80's, before medicine and technology were able to prolong a life as well as they do now.
I think it is a movie totally worthy of having in your collection because it's not just about shooting up. It's about life lessons. It's about a good man who made a mistake and paid with his life. But before he dies, he learned his lesson. some may think it was too late at that point but hey, they aren't making movies about you are they?
First Jennifer. She was OK. I'd give her 3 out of 5 stars. But it may be the way the story was written. They set up the movie as though they were interviewing Hector's wife and giving us his story through her eyes. I don't think it's so much that I didn't like Jennifer as that I didn't like his wife. Many people believe that she was the reason he got started on his drugs. But that would be blaming somebody instead of making him responsible for his addiction. I am not sure who started drugs first but both Hector and his wife were drug addicts. Her brother was a dealer and it is believed he provided Hector with what he needed. It's just that Hector's addiction led to a shortened life of a very talented singer so the focus is on him.
Marc Anthony was totally excellent in his portrayal of this legend. Of course Marc also has a great singing voice and is a legend in his own right.
While this movie does portray a very tragic life brought to a close by drug addiction and the irresponsible behaviors that go hand in hand with it that led Hector to be one of "the ones" with HIV in the 80's, before medicine and technology were able to prolong a life as well as they do now.
I think it is a movie totally worthy of having in your collection because it's not just about shooting up. It's about life lessons. It's about a good man who made a mistake and paid with his life. But before he dies, he learned his lesson. some may think it was too late at that point but hey, they aren't making movies about you are they?
Time to Love Ourselves--Be Selfish
So I was glad to see that my co-writer is back on at work and can blog her little heart away. Yes this blog is mostly about books...well being as we don't have many readers yet (if any), it's actually more about day to day life and the books that get us through!
As we see she just never stops. She makes me dizzy just to read about what she does.
Now this particular blog was a little different but I've edited. No need to really go into detail except to say that I hurt someones' feelings which is not what I meant to do.
So I don't even remember what got me to ramble on about this particular topic but I was thinking about growing up and the things our parents/caretakers do for us--out of love of course--but that end up doing more harm than good. Maybe it's the fact that my beautiful goddaughter has gotten into a little itty bit of legal trouble. It's really not that bad but it's a lesson she needs to learn. And I hope we let her learn it.
Growing up, I was the good sheep. I was the honor roll student, the volunteer, the worker. My cousins were the bad apples. They were the drop-outs, the druggies, the no good lazy bums. I realized once that the bad apples seem to have it easier than me and I though this was very unfair. Family and friends always asked if they were OK or needed anything. They always got a few extra bucks thrown at them so they wouldn't go hungry at school because the school cafeteria was apparently not good to their delicate stomachs. They always got calls just to make sure they were fine and not a call asking for a favor. Oh and they always got the best Christmas presents!!
Supposedly, it was some sort of reward in hopes that they would change their behavior. It never worked. I don't blame them. I mean why change if you seem to be getting everything you want and more by misbehaving and continuing your irresponsible behavior. I wouldn't change if I was getting the royal treatment!
One day I realized that it was much better to be the bad apple and the lazy bum. Nobody expected anything from you. I wanted the royal treatment too so I got myself into some legal trouble as a teen. And I expected that my family would want to gather around me and ask if there was anything they could do to make me happy. Maybe they'd take me out for ice cream and a new outfit. Or even a book (what can I say I was a bookworm back then!) I expected something nice!! I mean I got handcuffed!! (and not for any good reason as later discovered in my young adulthood--LOL)
Well wouldn't you know that even the bad apples were disappointed in me?? That is one lesson I will never forget. It seems you ave to be a bad apple all along to always have someone there ready to take you to the ends of the world; To always get taken care of and if one day you manage to actually wash the dishes or remember to get your own milk before all the nearby stores close or just do something for yourself without asking anyone to do it for you--there will be applause, a party, a cause for celebration.
But funny how nobody goes out of their way to help the person who does it all. I think they must think we don't need any help. We must have them really fooled into thinking that grown up responsible behavior is easy but since it comes so naturally to us, we don't even see it.
So now we are all adults. And nothing has changed. I personally am getting really sick of it. I'm tired of people portraying uselessness just to get the better of other people. I'm tired of healthy able bodied people constantly sitting back. People need to get their act together.
It's time we all learned the difference between CAN'T & WON'T and NEED & WANT.
Eventually the good apple goes rotten. After a while, we start resenting people for running us ragged. We get really crazy and respond in a very mean manner and the bad apple will look at you with that "deer caught in the headlight" look because you've accustomed them to taking care of things for them. They have no idea that they are doing anything wrong. And also, you just never know, but the day may come when you are not here. Who will do for them then? Sometimes we do more harm than good.
Why do some people feel they need to take care of everybody they love, even those who can fend for themselves? What do we show these people, especially teenagers and young adults, if we always pick up their pieces? God knows there are situations in which the pieces will be so broken, you'd do better throwing them out. Sometimes it's a better way to love if you let someone learn the lesson they were meant to and face consequences of their actions. But sometimes we are just bred that way I think--we are reared to be the servicer, the fixer, the one who will always take you out of a jam. And without getting spiritual, the one who will save you. The only problem is that when it comes time to save ourselves, we have no darn life left.
As we see she just never stops. She makes me dizzy just to read about what she does.
Now this particular blog was a little different but I've edited. No need to really go into detail except to say that I hurt someones' feelings which is not what I meant to do.
So I don't even remember what got me to ramble on about this particular topic but I was thinking about growing up and the things our parents/caretakers do for us--out of love of course--but that end up doing more harm than good. Maybe it's the fact that my beautiful goddaughter has gotten into a little itty bit of legal trouble. It's really not that bad but it's a lesson she needs to learn. And I hope we let her learn it.
Growing up, I was the good sheep. I was the honor roll student, the volunteer, the worker. My cousins were the bad apples. They were the drop-outs, the druggies, the no good lazy bums. I realized once that the bad apples seem to have it easier than me and I though this was very unfair. Family and friends always asked if they were OK or needed anything. They always got a few extra bucks thrown at them so they wouldn't go hungry at school because the school cafeteria was apparently not good to their delicate stomachs. They always got calls just to make sure they were fine and not a call asking for a favor. Oh and they always got the best Christmas presents!!
Supposedly, it was some sort of reward in hopes that they would change their behavior. It never worked. I don't blame them. I mean why change if you seem to be getting everything you want and more by misbehaving and continuing your irresponsible behavior. I wouldn't change if I was getting the royal treatment!
One day I realized that it was much better to be the bad apple and the lazy bum. Nobody expected anything from you. I wanted the royal treatment too so I got myself into some legal trouble as a teen. And I expected that my family would want to gather around me and ask if there was anything they could do to make me happy. Maybe they'd take me out for ice cream and a new outfit. Or even a book (what can I say I was a bookworm back then!) I expected something nice!! I mean I got handcuffed!! (and not for any good reason as later discovered in my young adulthood--LOL)
Well wouldn't you know that even the bad apples were disappointed in me?? That is one lesson I will never forget. It seems you ave to be a bad apple all along to always have someone there ready to take you to the ends of the world; To always get taken care of and if one day you manage to actually wash the dishes or remember to get your own milk before all the nearby stores close or just do something for yourself without asking anyone to do it for you--there will be applause, a party, a cause for celebration.
But funny how nobody goes out of their way to help the person who does it all. I think they must think we don't need any help. We must have them really fooled into thinking that grown up responsible behavior is easy but since it comes so naturally to us, we don't even see it.
So now we are all adults. And nothing has changed. I personally am getting really sick of it. I'm tired of people portraying uselessness just to get the better of other people. I'm tired of healthy able bodied people constantly sitting back. People need to get their act together.
It's time we all learned the difference between CAN'T & WON'T and NEED & WANT.
Eventually the good apple goes rotten. After a while, we start resenting people for running us ragged. We get really crazy and respond in a very mean manner and the bad apple will look at you with that "deer caught in the headlight" look because you've accustomed them to taking care of things for them. They have no idea that they are doing anything wrong. And also, you just never know, but the day may come when you are not here. Who will do for them then? Sometimes we do more harm than good.
Why do some people feel they need to take care of everybody they love, even those who can fend for themselves? What do we show these people, especially teenagers and young adults, if we always pick up their pieces? God knows there are situations in which the pieces will be so broken, you'd do better throwing them out. Sometimes it's a better way to love if you let someone learn the lesson they were meant to and face consequences of their actions. But sometimes we are just bred that way I think--we are reared to be the servicer, the fixer, the one who will always take you out of a jam. And without getting spiritual, the one who will save you. The only problem is that when it comes time to save ourselves, we have no darn life left.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Confusion Reigns Supreme
Ok one day the website is blocked and the next day it's not. Weird. Totally weird. But I'm grateful that I'm able to update it myself now. I don't have to pester our co-creator to post up my bloggings.
Anyway there is no rest for the weary. I'm pooped. I worked all weekend. And I got me some great clothes. However since I only had 30 mins to eat lunch, shop and try on my clothes I couldn't get everything I wanted. So I'm stuck for another week there. I do have to say that the store managers work TIRELESSLY from the time they walk in there till they go home. I mean its non-stop. I have NO time to browse the store at all. This past weekend I spent HOURS taking the entrance package for new hires. And the sad part is that I never fully finished it!! Yikes!! I can only imagine how much longer it's going to take me. The funny part is that they made me role play with the manager. Yesterday they worked me to the bone. The other girl that was working there got caught lying and I'm sure she lost her job. A pity. She's a young girl who is preggers and tells me she's not. Um hello..you are wearing maternity clothing and I could see your baby bump. lol Anyway I have to say it again those women work really really hard at making that store successful. And so do I. It's not a bad job. It's just that I like having my weekends free AND I HATE standing for long periods of time. I don't get a break. I'm running back and forth and every time a customer comes in I'm expected to drop what I'm doing and go sell them a credit card. The percentage is attractive 1.9% per month for any carryover balance. However, I personally hate it cause eventually you'll get sucked into buying stuff you don't need. lol
Anyway, I saw the movie El Cantante. I thought Jennifer Lopez was very believable. Mark Anthony portrayed a very believable Hector Lavoe. I would add it to my collection, but I don't want a movie about a man who shoots up in my collection. But I did enjoy the music. It did inspire me to buy some cd's for my hubby for Christmas.
I saw the watch that I wanted to buy my hubby. It's really nice. I'm going to put it on layaway. I hope that he likes it. I'd like to buy him a ring, but money's a little tight this year. lol
I'm almost done reading Mary Mary by James Patterson. I'll post a review soon. Because after all this blog is about Tattered Pages...you know books. lolol I was just busy all weekend. I didn't even have a chance/energy to go to church.
Oh and I was just informed that my associates wellness center is really a whore house! omG. I didn't realize that they still had these things in America. How naive am I? lol
I'm currently reading the November issue of Reader's Digest. I really enjoy that magazine. I wish I could afford the large print version for my mom. Perhaps I will get it for her around income tax time. She loves to read but her eye sight isn't the greatest. Bendito. And she has the most beautiful brown eyes. I love my mom so much. I'm so psyched. She's coming over on December 4. I plan to take a week off just to hang around the house with her!! :)
Well this is all for now. Let's start a petition!! Let's get our co-creator or rather our creator to start writing. We miss her updates. She's just too busy for us!! We miss you. Come back and start blogging. Give us recaps of the books you are currently reading. We love you! Come back to us soon!!
Anyway there is no rest for the weary. I'm pooped. I worked all weekend. And I got me some great clothes. However since I only had 30 mins to eat lunch, shop and try on my clothes I couldn't get everything I wanted. So I'm stuck for another week there. I do have to say that the store managers work TIRELESSLY from the time they walk in there till they go home. I mean its non-stop. I have NO time to browse the store at all. This past weekend I spent HOURS taking the entrance package for new hires. And the sad part is that I never fully finished it!! Yikes!! I can only imagine how much longer it's going to take me. The funny part is that they made me role play with the manager. Yesterday they worked me to the bone. The other girl that was working there got caught lying and I'm sure she lost her job. A pity. She's a young girl who is preggers and tells me she's not. Um hello..you are wearing maternity clothing and I could see your baby bump. lol Anyway I have to say it again those women work really really hard at making that store successful. And so do I. It's not a bad job. It's just that I like having my weekends free AND I HATE standing for long periods of time. I don't get a break. I'm running back and forth and every time a customer comes in I'm expected to drop what I'm doing and go sell them a credit card. The percentage is attractive 1.9% per month for any carryover balance. However, I personally hate it cause eventually you'll get sucked into buying stuff you don't need. lol
Anyway, I saw the movie El Cantante. I thought Jennifer Lopez was very believable. Mark Anthony portrayed a very believable Hector Lavoe. I would add it to my collection, but I don't want a movie about a man who shoots up in my collection. But I did enjoy the music. It did inspire me to buy some cd's for my hubby for Christmas.
I saw the watch that I wanted to buy my hubby. It's really nice. I'm going to put it on layaway. I hope that he likes it. I'd like to buy him a ring, but money's a little tight this year. lol
I'm almost done reading Mary Mary by James Patterson. I'll post a review soon. Because after all this blog is about Tattered Pages...you know books. lolol I was just busy all weekend. I didn't even have a chance/energy to go to church.
Oh and I was just informed that my associates wellness center is really a whore house! omG. I didn't realize that they still had these things in America. How naive am I? lol
I'm currently reading the November issue of Reader's Digest. I really enjoy that magazine. I wish I could afford the large print version for my mom. Perhaps I will get it for her around income tax time. She loves to read but her eye sight isn't the greatest. Bendito. And she has the most beautiful brown eyes. I love my mom so much. I'm so psyched. She's coming over on December 4. I plan to take a week off just to hang around the house with her!! :)
Well this is all for now. Let's start a petition!! Let's get our co-creator or rather our creator to start writing. We miss her updates. She's just too busy for us!! We miss you. Come back and start blogging. Give us recaps of the books you are currently reading. We love you! Come back to us soon!!
Friday, November 2, 2007
Hectic
I'm so tired. I cant tell u. I'm on the go 7 days a week. My body is tired. Yesterday check this out--- I went picked up the neighbor to go accompany me to the dollar store, then I took her to the ATM cause she needed money, then I took her to the store to buy milk for herself and for Wiggles! So that didn't bug me. Then I drop her off to RACE HOME to take the hubby to his 7:30 church mtg. I was doing like 90 on the turnpike! So I take him to his mtg only to RACE back...I had to go to Kmart to return something so that he could have money. Then I went to Lisy's house to get something I had ordered (CANDY - I needed the energy rush), then I jumped back and RACED to pick him up at 9 pm! When I get there he asks me to take our church friend to Journal Square. And I take her to the square off Bergen Ave. Then I go back into the heights to bring the bags that I forgot to leave when I dropped off the neighbor. Then hubby calls his daughter and of course she's in her friend's house with my grandson and I had to go pick her up. Then she tells us that the baby has no milk and hasn't eaten (grrrr) so we stop at a nearby store and buy him milk and raviolis. Then we take her home and hubby wants to go inside and visit. So after 20 mins we leave, fill up the tank (gas is expensive!!) and then go back home. (side note: on the way home I was whining about how tired I was and my husband says I never asked you to bring her home, I said to take her to the bus stop!! Mental slap!! But then I said God how good you are that you allowed me to hear wrong just so that we could come over and buy our grandson some milk and ravioli's so he wouldn't go to bed hungry. He's getting to be a picky eater cause there was food in the house, but I guess being 2 means that you make your own menu. lol) Now mind you...It's 10:30 pm and I have been in my car since 6:15pm and haven't eaten since 12 pm. So needless to say, I was hungry. 11 o'clock finds me in the chino's getting food! lol Then we went home. And finally ate and passed out around 11:35pm or so. Child I cringed when I heard the alarm clock at 6:15 this morning. lol
I just wanted to put this out here so that you could see what our co-creator is talking about when she says I'm a busy bee. I really am. I'm on the go 7 days a week. I got 2 church mtg/studies. I go to regular church service. And now I go and get myself a part time job. Am I crazy? It seems so. What can I do to get out of it? I want to quit, but I don't want to burn my bridges, because you never know. But I have to hang on a few more weeks because I want to buy some clothes at a very good discount! lol Yeah I know, but what would YOU do.
Anyway, tonite is another nite of activity. I don't know what it is to go home and just sit there and veg and maybe cook some dinner. No...I have to be all over the map like a deranged humming bird! lol Tonight's agenda:
Finally on Sunday I can sleep late!! The church service isn't until the evening. Yippee!! I'm SO looking forward to just sleeping in late! But I'm sure that I'll find something to do. And you know what I was thinking? (of course you don't) Yeah my life is pretty hectic lately but sometimes that's a good thing. It means that I'm getting things accomplished right?????
I been at work for over and hour and a half and I got 3 work related items accomplished. lol OK let me go work so that I could afford to come to work and update my blog. :)
I just wanted to put this out here so that you could see what our co-creator is talking about when she says I'm a busy bee. I really am. I'm on the go 7 days a week. I got 2 church mtg/studies. I go to regular church service. And now I go and get myself a part time job. Am I crazy? It seems so. What can I do to get out of it? I want to quit, but I don't want to burn my bridges, because you never know. But I have to hang on a few more weeks because I want to buy some clothes at a very good discount! lol Yeah I know, but what would YOU do.
Anyway, tonite is another nite of activity. I don't know what it is to go home and just sit there and veg and maybe cook some dinner. No...I have to be all over the map like a deranged humming bird! lol Tonight's agenda:
- Pick up daughter and take her food shopping. (play with grandson)
- Drop off daughter and visit with sister who is going through major drama (play with wiggles, maybe take her to eat)
- Go home and clean up a week's worth of messes!
- Make a little dinner
- PASS OUT COLD ... lol
Finally on Sunday I can sleep late!! The church service isn't until the evening. Yippee!! I'm SO looking forward to just sleeping in late! But I'm sure that I'll find something to do. And you know what I was thinking? (of course you don't) Yeah my life is pretty hectic lately but sometimes that's a good thing. It means that I'm getting things accomplished right?????
I been at work for over and hour and a half and I got 3 work related items accomplished. lol OK let me go work so that I could afford to come to work and update my blog. :)
Thursday, November 1, 2007
The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers -- A book
This blog is about books right? And yet somehow I sneak in snippets of my life. lol So anywhoooooo, here's my take on "The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers"
It's a very lite read. I think its like 190 pages. And that's because it was double spaced. lol No seriously it was a lite book. A little too monotonous for my taste. Nothing very exciting, except for the flying cat. No I wont spoil it for you, you will just have to read the book for yourself. lol
I remember reading one of these books years ago and found it so exciting. Maybe I built it up in my mind. Cause you know that happens alot. But I thought it was pretty hum drum and lacking some exciting and melodramatic scenes. Then again that might be because I've been reading alot of action detective books lately. So compared to those, this book is a fluff piece. All frills and no substance. I'd say if you were going to the laundromat or to sit under a tree and people watch then this is the book for you. So that you could pay attention to your surroundings and yet feel entertained because you have a book.
Currently I am reading Mary Mary by James Patterson. Has a bit more promise than the cat with the 60 whiskers. But then again James doesn't have a cat who can tell you AHEAD of time before the phone rings or you have company coming. So James needs to get one of these cats/dogs/birds/iguana pronto!!
And so my fellow book worms, this book will only get 2 1/2 tattered pages. It would probably be best to rent it at the book store than to buy it.
It should be duly noted that I am not a real critic, nor do I have any experience/training in the field. The items expressed here are solely my own and should not be taken out of context. :)
It's a very lite read. I think its like 190 pages. And that's because it was double spaced. lol No seriously it was a lite book. A little too monotonous for my taste. Nothing very exciting, except for the flying cat. No I wont spoil it for you, you will just have to read the book for yourself. lol
I remember reading one of these books years ago and found it so exciting. Maybe I built it up in my mind. Cause you know that happens alot. But I thought it was pretty hum drum and lacking some exciting and melodramatic scenes. Then again that might be because I've been reading alot of action detective books lately. So compared to those, this book is a fluff piece. All frills and no substance. I'd say if you were going to the laundromat or to sit under a tree and people watch then this is the book for you. So that you could pay attention to your surroundings and yet feel entertained because you have a book.
Currently I am reading Mary Mary by James Patterson. Has a bit more promise than the cat with the 60 whiskers. But then again James doesn't have a cat who can tell you AHEAD of time before the phone rings or you have company coming. So James needs to get one of these cats/dogs/birds/iguana pronto!!
And so my fellow book worms, this book will only get 2 1/2 tattered pages. It would probably be best to rent it at the book store than to buy it.
It should be duly noted that I am not a real critic, nor do I have any experience/training in the field. The items expressed here are solely my own and should not be taken out of context. :)
Halloween Antics & Blockage
Just so everyone knows my company has blocked my viewing of this blog. In the future Lisy will post my blogs. Sigh...However, I found a way to get in and post my blog items TEMPORARILY...however, you know that technology will find me out soon enough. lol
Anyway, yesterday I went with my husband to his side job. OmG. How annoying it was to sit in my car for 9 hours! OK I sat on the way there, on the way to pick up a friend, on the way to pick up supplies (3 times) and on the way home. Yonkers has some really nice places, but I wouldn't make the move over there. It's still NY and as many of you know, I really am not a big fan of NY. Anyway, it wasn't all that terrible. I did alot of people watching. And there were a few stores to look at. (2 pizzeria's across the st from each other, a very small supermarket, 2 small bodega's, liquor store, a busted 99 cent store, a cheesy pharmacy, nail salon and a bar. A few arguments broke out. I saw alot of trick-o-treeters. The cutest costume goes to the little boy dressed as a NYC cop. How adorable, whistle and handcuffs and everything. Very cute. The second one goes to the teenager dressed as a french maid with the thigh highs and everything. Who valiantly tried to pull her skirt down. And I'm thinking why bother? your costume is designed to show your tushy! lol
Pork Rinds - this was my meal yesterday. They fill you up. I had 1 bag that lasted me like 3 or 4 hours. It wasn't very big at all. a little bigger than a bag of chips. But the sucker was filling! lol I'd grab 3 or 4 pieces and then feel full. All the while I kept watching my husband work away. lol
So last nite, I really didn't want to go to my Al-anon mtg. I really just wanted to go home and stay there. But I decided to go and I'm glad that I did. I was able to express the fact that I am overwhelmed. (and somewhere Lisy is sighing and saying finally she admits it! lol) Yeah its taken its toll on me. I need to learn to say NO, leave me alone and its no my problem. But being a people pleaser all my life makes those last few words so difficult. So pray for me will ya?
The trick-o-treeters were out in full force. Kids were everywhere. A few eggs were thrown but for the most part it was OK. Oh the only other damage was that someone wrote on the garage door in red spray paint. Idiots. Don't they realize how expensive it is to buy stuff? ugh. Why don't people teach their children manners?
So I work this weekend and I am so not feeling it. I'm trying to come up with an excuse to quit. I hate that job. What should I say? Help me out here. lol
Well I really don't have anything else to say. Except what's cooking for Thanksgiving?
Anyway, yesterday I went with my husband to his side job. OmG. How annoying it was to sit in my car for 9 hours! OK I sat on the way there, on the way to pick up a friend, on the way to pick up supplies (3 times) and on the way home. Yonkers has some really nice places, but I wouldn't make the move over there. It's still NY and as many of you know, I really am not a big fan of NY. Anyway, it wasn't all that terrible. I did alot of people watching. And there were a few stores to look at. (2 pizzeria's across the st from each other, a very small supermarket, 2 small bodega's, liquor store, a busted 99 cent store, a cheesy pharmacy, nail salon and a bar. A few arguments broke out. I saw alot of trick-o-treeters. The cutest costume goes to the little boy dressed as a NYC cop. How adorable, whistle and handcuffs and everything. Very cute. The second one goes to the teenager dressed as a french maid with the thigh highs and everything. Who valiantly tried to pull her skirt down. And I'm thinking why bother? your costume is designed to show your tushy! lol
Pork Rinds - this was my meal yesterday. They fill you up. I had 1 bag that lasted me like 3 or 4 hours. It wasn't very big at all. a little bigger than a bag of chips. But the sucker was filling! lol I'd grab 3 or 4 pieces and then feel full. All the while I kept watching my husband work away. lol
So last nite, I really didn't want to go to my Al-anon mtg. I really just wanted to go home and stay there. But I decided to go and I'm glad that I did. I was able to express the fact that I am overwhelmed. (and somewhere Lisy is sighing and saying finally she admits it! lol) Yeah its taken its toll on me. I need to learn to say NO, leave me alone and its no my problem. But being a people pleaser all my life makes those last few words so difficult. So pray for me will ya?
The trick-o-treeters were out in full force. Kids were everywhere. A few eggs were thrown but for the most part it was OK. Oh the only other damage was that someone wrote on the garage door in red spray paint. Idiots. Don't they realize how expensive it is to buy stuff? ugh. Why don't people teach their children manners?
So I work this weekend and I am so not feeling it. I'm trying to come up with an excuse to quit. I hate that job. What should I say? Help me out here. lol
Well I really don't have anything else to say. Except what's cooking for Thanksgiving?
Monday, October 29, 2007
An Eclectic Post
Family politics kill me. Long Story Short. My brother is a big baby sometimes. Thanksgiving is being hosted in my sister's house and Christmas will be at his house. As for me and my spouse, we will be at my in law's. Why? Because I hate family politics.
My mother is coming down on December 4. I'm so excited and happy! And I just got her gift from Amazon that I ordered last week. And ...don't say anything...I got part of Lisy's gift...shhhhhh....dont tell her. lol Psych! lolol I swear I could just hear her inhale as if she'd gotten the biggest shock of her life. lol Did you honestly think I'd put your present up here? Really? Cause I wouldn't even tell you when I got it, which I don't have it yet btw. But don't worry there's still time and I could totally make it to the dollar store in time...lolol
Why I think college should be free. That way everyone could get an education and not have to work for a retail store. As you all know I started my part time job. I hate it. OMG. The only way to get hours in this place is to get ppl to sign up for their credit card. I got 1 person to sign up yesterday and since I also got them to buy the insurance I get an extra $3 in my check. woo hoo. Child, let me tell you that my feet are still hurting!! I had the idea to wear my new wedges! I wanted to break them in. Well after 8 hours in them, they broke ME! lol I swear I worked hard yesterday. I worked so hard that I have a new respect for people that work in retail. And I also have a disdain for them. I'M a snob. I truly am. I'm so grateful that I went to school and got an education because I am totally not meant for retail. I got another 2 weeks and then I'm going to quit. lol I just want my 31% discount and then I'm out! I hate CREDIT CARDS. Why? Because I'm a compulsive shopper. So the last thing that I need is more debt. So I don't think that they are going to like me very much! I'm not going to get the hours because I'm not aggressive that way. HOWEVER, I am a good sales person. I did manage to talk a few people into buying clothes that I'm sure they deserved. So I don't feel guilty about it. One lady even told the manager that if it weren't for me that they wouldn't have bought anything at all. However, none of that matters because they are looking for credit card apps. On my very first day I was expected to get 2 of them. Jeez Louise! Talk about pressure. And I realized that the manager gave me the bulk of the work! The other new hire got to look petty and walk around the store just folding stuff. I got all the stinking returns, the HUGE round table of panties fanned out like napkins, the shoes, stockings, lingerie and the discount section. I was ticked off. And then I had to vacuum the entire back section including the register. And then the mgr showed me how to properly hang the jeans. I did that, but she went into my section and saw one that wasn't put right and said "you STILL haven't learned". I was like that was like that already. How frigging hard is it to hang jeans? Give me a break. Then the other new hire scored the first cc app. And she came over and was like oh I am not trying to take over or tell you what to do....I cut her short. I said girl this is a part time job for me...just Christmas money. So I don't care. They could fire me and I wouldn't care. And walked away. To let her teeny bopper butt know that I went to school and got my degree. I'm there for holiday money not for a lifetime. Yeah I'm a snob. So what? I'm a snob, but I worked really hard and I did everything I was suppose to do!
Laundry. Tonite is laundry nite. I hate laundry nite. Cause I have alot of it. Maybe I can convince my husband to help me tomorrow. I just want to go to my Bible study and call it a night. Yeah that's what I'll do. I'll do the dreaded laundry tomorrow. Now to find clothes to wear! Tomorrow is jeans/sweater day. Cause I have nothing but dresses left that are clean and its too cold to put a dress on. So I'll go dressed down instead. lol
Wednesday. Im off on Wednesday. I have loads of plans! The first and most impoart is going to the meadowland fleamarket. I love a good fleamarket. It's open on Wednesdays from 9 to 3 and on Saturdays from 9 to 5. You can find stuff from the 20's up to the present day. I got a great Coach purse for $20 bucks! I called Lisy just to make her drool! lol Take a ride and go over there. You wont regret it. http://www.meadowlandsfleamarket.com/index.htm
Well I think I done rambled on enough. This should make all you blog fans happy! :) See you at the library or flea market! :)
My mother is coming down on December 4. I'm so excited and happy! And I just got her gift from Amazon that I ordered last week. And ...don't say anything...I got part of Lisy's gift...shhhhhh....dont tell her. lol Psych! lolol I swear I could just hear her inhale as if she'd gotten the biggest shock of her life. lol Did you honestly think I'd put your present up here? Really? Cause I wouldn't even tell you when I got it, which I don't have it yet btw. But don't worry there's still time and I could totally make it to the dollar store in time...lolol
Why I think college should be free. That way everyone could get an education and not have to work for a retail store. As you all know I started my part time job. I hate it. OMG. The only way to get hours in this place is to get ppl to sign up for their credit card. I got 1 person to sign up yesterday and since I also got them to buy the insurance I get an extra $3 in my check. woo hoo. Child, let me tell you that my feet are still hurting!! I had the idea to wear my new wedges! I wanted to break them in. Well after 8 hours in them, they broke ME! lol I swear I worked hard yesterday. I worked so hard that I have a new respect for people that work in retail. And I also have a disdain for them. I'M a snob. I truly am. I'm so grateful that I went to school and got an education because I am totally not meant for retail. I got another 2 weeks and then I'm going to quit. lol I just want my 31% discount and then I'm out! I hate CREDIT CARDS. Why? Because I'm a compulsive shopper. So the last thing that I need is more debt. So I don't think that they are going to like me very much! I'm not going to get the hours because I'm not aggressive that way. HOWEVER, I am a good sales person. I did manage to talk a few people into buying clothes that I'm sure they deserved. So I don't feel guilty about it. One lady even told the manager that if it weren't for me that they wouldn't have bought anything at all. However, none of that matters because they are looking for credit card apps. On my very first day I was expected to get 2 of them. Jeez Louise! Talk about pressure. And I realized that the manager gave me the bulk of the work! The other new hire got to look petty and walk around the store just folding stuff. I got all the stinking returns, the HUGE round table of panties fanned out like napkins, the shoes, stockings, lingerie and the discount section. I was ticked off. And then I had to vacuum the entire back section including the register. And then the mgr showed me how to properly hang the jeans. I did that, but she went into my section and saw one that wasn't put right and said "you STILL haven't learned". I was like that was like that already. How frigging hard is it to hang jeans? Give me a break. Then the other new hire scored the first cc app. And she came over and was like oh I am not trying to take over or tell you what to do....I cut her short. I said girl this is a part time job for me...just Christmas money. So I don't care. They could fire me and I wouldn't care. And walked away. To let her teeny bopper butt know that I went to school and got my degree. I'm there for holiday money not for a lifetime. Yeah I'm a snob. So what? I'm a snob, but I worked really hard and I did everything I was suppose to do!
Laundry. Tonite is laundry nite. I hate laundry nite. Cause I have alot of it. Maybe I can convince my husband to help me tomorrow. I just want to go to my Bible study and call it a night. Yeah that's what I'll do. I'll do the dreaded laundry tomorrow. Now to find clothes to wear! Tomorrow is jeans/sweater day. Cause I have nothing but dresses left that are clean and its too cold to put a dress on. So I'll go dressed down instead. lol
Wednesday. Im off on Wednesday. I have loads of plans! The first and most impoart is going to the meadowland fleamarket. I love a good fleamarket. It's open on Wednesdays from 9 to 3 and on Saturdays from 9 to 5. You can find stuff from the 20's up to the present day. I got a great Coach purse for $20 bucks! I called Lisy just to make her drool! lol Take a ride and go over there. You wont regret it. http://www.meadowlandsfleamarket.com/index.htm
Well I think I done rambled on enough. This should make all you blog fans happy! :) See you at the library or flea market! :)
We'll Meet Again--Mary Higgins Clark
This was a good and exciting read. I had read this book a few years back, but had forgotten about it. lol I read so many books that sometimes I forget. So with much anticipation I picked up the book and then a few pages in realized my happy blunder. Since it was a few years ago that I read it, I decided to give it another go ahead. And was very happily surprised that I had even forgotten who the true villain was! lol
Basically this book is about a woman who is accused and convicted of killing her husband. She was accused because she couldn't remember whether she did it or not. Can you believe that? I would lie through my teeth. Heck no your honor I loved this man so much that I'm going to die now that he's not here. (see the pun there?? lol)
Anyway, back to the book....Molly has to find a way to regain her memory quick fast and in a hurry or face having the past repeated. I'm not going to divulge who did what or even who the villain was. Let's just say that this book is a good example of the mantra that I live by.
Nancy's Mantra
Make sure you like who you bring to your house...cause she's the next one in your bed!
Anyway, Molly has a chance at second love, but she's too busy trying to regain her memories. And the author has some good characters who help draw the limelight away from Molly and direct it in a few different directions. It goes to prove that money can buy you comfort and every material item your heart desires, but it cannot buy you peace or love. I'd read it again. Maybe you should pick it up when you go to the library to pick up the other book (In the company of cheerful ladies). lol
Basically this book is about a woman who is accused and convicted of killing her husband. She was accused because she couldn't remember whether she did it or not. Can you believe that? I would lie through my teeth. Heck no your honor I loved this man so much that I'm going to die now that he's not here. (see the pun there?? lol)
Anyway, back to the book....Molly has to find a way to regain her memory quick fast and in a hurry or face having the past repeated. I'm not going to divulge who did what or even who the villain was. Let's just say that this book is a good example of the mantra that I live by.
Nancy's Mantra
Make sure you like who you bring to your house...cause she's the next one in your bed!
Anyway, Molly has a chance at second love, but she's too busy trying to regain her memories. And the author has some good characters who help draw the limelight away from Molly and direct it in a few different directions. It goes to prove that money can buy you comfort and every material item your heart desires, but it cannot buy you peace or love. I'd read it again. Maybe you should pick it up when you go to the library to pick up the other book (In the company of cheerful ladies). lol
In the Company of cheerful Ladies -- A Book
In the company of cheerful ladies
This is the second book to The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. It is written by Alexander McCall Smith. Both of these books detail the work of female private detectives in Botswana. The characters are likable and very funny. The lead detective is an overweight Botswanian who is called Precious. Her sidekick is Ms. Makutsi. They are both amateur detectives that use common sense and practicality to solve the cases that come across their desk. This time around mma Botswana (as she is referred to in the entire book) has married Mr JLB Matekoni, the successful mechanic in whose car repair shop she used to drop in and chat with. Mr. JLB Maketoni (as he is also referred to in the entire book) has 2 apprentices working in his garage. Charlie and another one, whose name escapes my memory. Mma Botswana has a nasty encounter with a stranger that broke into her home. Quick snapshot of this scene. Picture an old tinish house in the deserts of Africa. 1 level house (obviously) and picture an old style brass bed (without the fancy brass) very low to the ground. Anyway, mma Botswana has checked all the rooms and has decided that her suspicious mind is getting the best of her. So she decides to lay down on her bed and take a quick nap before the husband and kids come home. So she lays down and she hears a sound right by her window that sounds like an old dog howling or something. So she jumps up and checks the window looking towards the bushes. Seeing nothing she returns to the bed. That's when she heard the noise again and realized that it was coming not from outside her window but from underneath her BED! All of a sudden this guy leaps out and runs out the house partially naked because his pants got stuck on a coil from the mattress! She was literally crushing this guy to death! OMG. When I read that I busted out laughing. I could totally picture this scene in my head. And I'm sure that in years to come and senility sets in I will swear that I saw it in a movie, when in fact it is totally not a movie, but rather a good book. Anyway, the author paints such a graphic description of a slow moving and quaint life in Africa, that I found myself wish I had her life. The simplicity and lack of the RAT RACE was so enticing!! I first read the first novel a few years ago and on Monday found myself thinking about it. Well imagine my surprise when I went on Tuesday to the library (as I do every Tuesday) and saw the newest read! I was excited. I called Lisy just to talk about it. As I truly am a book enthusiast. lol
I found the author's web page and am including it here. In my humble opinion, I suggest you pick up both books and become familiar with his writings and fall in love with these simple, yet lovable characters. If you find yourself wanting to discuss the book, just drop us a line.
I personally DESPISE my space, so you will never catch me on it. However, my co-conspirator has created a my space page. So feel free to drop her a line if you want to.
Enjoy the good read! :)
http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk/Pages/Home.aspx
UPDATE: I decided to poke around the website and realized that while "In the Company of Cheerful Ladies" is the second book, there are really 8 books in the series so far! I've got alot of reading to do!! How could I have missed all those other titles! I'm so happy because I thoroughly enjoy the writings of Mr. Smith and I now have another good reason to visit the library! Do yourself the favor and pick up one of these books!! You'll never regret it. :)
This is the second book to The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. It is written by Alexander McCall Smith. Both of these books detail the work of female private detectives in Botswana. The characters are likable and very funny. The lead detective is an overweight Botswanian who is called Precious. Her sidekick is Ms. Makutsi. They are both amateur detectives that use common sense and practicality to solve the cases that come across their desk. This time around mma Botswana (as she is referred to in the entire book) has married Mr JLB Matekoni, the successful mechanic in whose car repair shop she used to drop in and chat with. Mr. JLB Maketoni (as he is also referred to in the entire book) has 2 apprentices working in his garage. Charlie and another one, whose name escapes my memory. Mma Botswana has a nasty encounter with a stranger that broke into her home. Quick snapshot of this scene. Picture an old tinish house in the deserts of Africa. 1 level house (obviously) and picture an old style brass bed (without the fancy brass) very low to the ground. Anyway, mma Botswana has checked all the rooms and has decided that her suspicious mind is getting the best of her. So she decides to lay down on her bed and take a quick nap before the husband and kids come home. So she lays down and she hears a sound right by her window that sounds like an old dog howling or something. So she jumps up and checks the window looking towards the bushes. Seeing nothing she returns to the bed. That's when she heard the noise again and realized that it was coming not from outside her window but from underneath her BED! All of a sudden this guy leaps out and runs out the house partially naked because his pants got stuck on a coil from the mattress! She was literally crushing this guy to death! OMG. When I read that I busted out laughing. I could totally picture this scene in my head. And I'm sure that in years to come and senility sets in I will swear that I saw it in a movie, when in fact it is totally not a movie, but rather a good book. Anyway, the author paints such a graphic description of a slow moving and quaint life in Africa, that I found myself wish I had her life. The simplicity and lack of the RAT RACE was so enticing!! I first read the first novel a few years ago and on Monday found myself thinking about it. Well imagine my surprise when I went on Tuesday to the library (as I do every Tuesday) and saw the newest read! I was excited. I called Lisy just to talk about it. As I truly am a book enthusiast. lol
I found the author's web page and am including it here. In my humble opinion, I suggest you pick up both books and become familiar with his writings and fall in love with these simple, yet lovable characters. If you find yourself wanting to discuss the book, just drop us a line.
I personally DESPISE my space, so you will never catch me on it. However, my co-conspirator has created a my space page. So feel free to drop her a line if you want to.
Enjoy the good read! :)
http://www.alexandermccallsmith.co.uk/Pages/Home.aspx
UPDATE: I decided to poke around the website and realized that while "In the Company of Cheerful Ladies" is the second book, there are really 8 books in the series so far! I've got alot of reading to do!! How could I have missed all those other titles! I'm so happy because I thoroughly enjoy the writings of Mr. Smith and I now have another good reason to visit the library! Do yourself the favor and pick up one of these books!! You'll never regret it. :)
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Embassy Suites
So I need sleep but instead I wanted to write on my blog! My friend’s daughter turned 8 and they gave her a slumber party at Embassy Suites in Parsippany. I took my cousin’s children—Richard Jr who is 10 years old and is Richard Sr’s child and Alexis who is 5 years old is Alex’s child. This was the first time I've ever been allowed to take Alexis by myself. Her mom is very overprotective. I was afraid that she was going to give me a hard time because well, she’s a little spoiled by her mommy. And since I’ve never had her over before, I was unsure what to expect. But Alexis turned out to be spectacular. She was an absolute doll and everyone loved her! The only thing I had trouble with was getting her to eat. She was unhappy with it all—and they had scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, pancakes, fresh fruit, yogurt, jello, Danish, Froot Loops. She took a couple bites of everything but ate nothing. Now I know what a pain in the a@@ I must've been as a child. I have the reputation for being the worst eater in my family. I guess I now pass the torch to Alexis. Richard, was an absolute horror! OK I’m exaggerating. He lives with me and there are no other children in the house and he rarely gets to play with children. So he was sooooo hyper amongst the children. I guess he was just letting out all that pent-up energy. All in all, the kids had a good time. The adults needed naps. The hotel is spectacular. The breakfast was great. And although they had beautiful little samples of shampoos, conditioners, hand lotions, and nice plushy towels—what is that I couldn't resist?? That’s right all—the darn pen with the Embassy Suites logo. I told you all I had a problem. LOL
P.S. Our myspace page is coming along great. You need to check it out at www.myspace.com/mytatteredpages
P.S. Our myspace page is coming along great. You need to check it out at www.myspace.com/mytatteredpages
Friday, October 26, 2007
Reading Is Sexy
Come on everybody--repeat after me--"Where in the world is co-writer?" You see how she leaves us every weekend? I called her earlier and left a message to meet up by Target. I had to go buy a gift for my friend's daughter. We are having a slumber party tomorrow night. We are all staying at the Embassy Suites. Doesn't it sound special? I've never gone there and I've never had a slumber party. I was never allowed to sleep over anyone's house unless it was family. So this will be my first slumber party!! I'll tell you all about it!! Anyway, it's now four hours after I left her the message and she still hasn't called me. After I write this, I will call again. I worry about her! LOL I do.
So anyway, I made a my space page and guess what it's called??? My Tattered Pages! I know it was difficult to guess. And on my page, I say that reading is sexy! And it is!! At least I always thought so. And yea, some may think I'm a nerd but I really am just a proud bookworm.
When I was in high school, I wasn't as proud because it would've hurt my popularity!! LOL Seriously though, you all know it's true. If a girl liked to read, it was a good sign of intelligence and for whatever reason, the boys didn't want to hook-up with the smart girls. Now that I'm all grown up, I know why!!
Anyhow, I love books, pens, and purses/handbags. Not always in that order--it would depend on my mood and how much money I have to spend. LOL
I cannot go into a Walgreens or CVS and not glance by the school supplies section. Why? I have absolutely no idea. But I automatically gravitate there. I love pens in all colors and I love promotional pens. If I go into a business and they have a pen, I want one. It's one of my quirks.
I also cannot go into a mall without checking out their bookstore or drive by Route 3 in Clifton and not go into that huge Barnes & Noble store. It's beautiful. It has an escalator!!! And it's a book store. They have books and pens!! It's my heaven. LOL
I also have an addiction to purses. Yes, handbags. I love Coach bags followed by Gucci. I cannot, of course afford to buy a real one every week, so I resort to Canal Street knock-offs. And the occasional purse party. I have tons of them. And every time I am depressed, nothing perks me up more than a new purse, or a bright new pen, or a tattered old book.
Ok, so I am quirky. But isn't it sexy? Christmas is coming. You all know what to get me now.
Welcome again to My Tattered Pages!!
So anyway, I made a my space page and guess what it's called??? My Tattered Pages! I know it was difficult to guess. And on my page, I say that reading is sexy! And it is!! At least I always thought so. And yea, some may think I'm a nerd but I really am just a proud bookworm.
When I was in high school, I wasn't as proud because it would've hurt my popularity!! LOL Seriously though, you all know it's true. If a girl liked to read, it was a good sign of intelligence and for whatever reason, the boys didn't want to hook-up with the smart girls. Now that I'm all grown up, I know why!!
Anyhow, I love books, pens, and purses/handbags. Not always in that order--it would depend on my mood and how much money I have to spend. LOL
I cannot go into a Walgreens or CVS and not glance by the school supplies section. Why? I have absolutely no idea. But I automatically gravitate there. I love pens in all colors and I love promotional pens. If I go into a business and they have a pen, I want one. It's one of my quirks.
I also cannot go into a mall without checking out their bookstore or drive by Route 3 in Clifton and not go into that huge Barnes & Noble store. It's beautiful. It has an escalator!!! And it's a book store. They have books and pens!! It's my heaven. LOL
I also have an addiction to purses. Yes, handbags. I love Coach bags followed by Gucci. I cannot, of course afford to buy a real one every week, so I resort to Canal Street knock-offs. And the occasional purse party. I have tons of them. And every time I am depressed, nothing perks me up more than a new purse, or a bright new pen, or a tattered old book.
Ok, so I am quirky. But isn't it sexy? Christmas is coming. You all know what to get me now.
Welcome again to My Tattered Pages!!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Family Drama & Misc Thoughts
FAMILY DRAMA
I get a frantic call from my brother. Where is Thanksgiving being held? It's not even Halloween and he's hounding me about next month. So I send an email over to my sister and sister in law. What ensues? Curve balls and asides about how I don't make the effort to meet with my family and so forth. So I had to defend myself in love. Cause I love my fams, but they are a bunch of nuts. Sometimes we're too particular and not everyone fits our standard "molds". So I had to put it out there that sometimes our inlawish family members wont be accepted in the family "molds". So to give my brother and me a break. We're torn. We love both sides equally, but they don't blend well. lol So let's see. Right now I guess it will be held in my sister's brand new house. As for me, I'm going to spend it with my hubs in his fam house or maybe with the church.
ALANON
I love my Wednesday night group. However yesterday I didn't want to go. Why? cause I wanted to do my laundry. However, I decided that for my recovery I had to make it my business to get over to the group. I'm glad I did. I admitted something that I never thought I would. And then I got tested on it after the group. I met up with one of the girls who was picking up her hubs and she talked me into joining the festivities. When I walked in I saw my hubs sitting alone outside the room getting ready to send me a text msg. He put this big smile and escorted me inside. He got me some food and a soda. We joined the girl who had talked me into coming and her husband. Then a few of the other guys got together and we had a blast!
FAMILY
I love my family so much. Even if they are a bunch of particular crazies. lol I still don't know where I'll spend the holidays but I know that I'll spend it with family. Whether my own family, my extended family or my new Church family. I'll keep you posted
RAINY DAYS
They are good for sleeping. So why am I at work? Oh yeah I know...so I could be able to afford an umbrella so I don't get wet on the way to work. lol
SHOPPING
I haven't been doing much of this lately. I guess its because my apartment is kinda on the small side. Or maybe its because I got no money. Or maybe its because my schedule is so hectic that I don't have time to do the things I want unless I take a vacation from work. lol
OK, Black Friday is around the corner. I want a cool camera for my birthday which is a few days before black Friday but so what. I could wait for the sale. lolol I'm going to go searching for the black Friday ads and see if i could come up with something cool. lol
LISY
OK OK so you got me. I didn't see the post yesterday. I was busy working. I didn't have a chance to go check out the blog. so sue me. yeesh! But come on its about time that you get on the ball. Don't you think??
And thank you for the gracious hostess bit. I appreciate it. I must treat you and your boo to a fancy sit down dinner soon. I'll make a nice salad and I'll make two entrees. Pork chops and some steak in salsa. lol That way I please you and your boo. lolol
You didn't tell me you won! How could you not tell me. You see how she's getting fellow blog readers. She has a bit of money and forgets about us poor people. Where's the love? lol Why didn't she buy me a present? That's what I want to know.
Girl, when I told your boo's boo*** that you had no wheels and you had to see him, the first words out his mouth was then give her the car. lol I was like alright. debate over. lol took all of 1 milisecond. lol
***(For those readers that are wondering about the boo's boo comment. All it means is that her fiancee and my husband are closer than 2 peas in a pod. They love one another as if they were lifelong brothers! So Lisy and I have an inside joke that they might be undercover lovers. lolol Cause they fight like 2 bitches too. They call the other's wife when they fight and complain about what they did. Then they call their own wives and complain. It's so funny. Then a few days later they are together like nothing ever happened. lol Bunch of weirdo's! lol)
Weekend
I have plans for this weekend. Saturday if things go well I'll go to the flea market at Giant's Stadium. If not, I'll go to the library and take out a few books and then I'll go home and relax. Sunday will be for Jesus and then after church I have to work. Yup. I start my new part time job on Sunday. Woo hoo. 31% discount here I come. lol
Well this is all for now. I'm busy at work. We're getting ready to send for my mother for the holidays. I'm so excited. I love my mother so much. I cant wait to see her!!
I get a frantic call from my brother. Where is Thanksgiving being held? It's not even Halloween and he's hounding me about next month. So I send an email over to my sister and sister in law. What ensues? Curve balls and asides about how I don't make the effort to meet with my family and so forth. So I had to defend myself in love. Cause I love my fams, but they are a bunch of nuts. Sometimes we're too particular and not everyone fits our standard "molds". So I had to put it out there that sometimes our inlawish family members wont be accepted in the family "molds". So to give my brother and me a break. We're torn. We love both sides equally, but they don't blend well. lol So let's see. Right now I guess it will be held in my sister's brand new house. As for me, I'm going to spend it with my hubs in his fam house or maybe with the church.
ALANON
I love my Wednesday night group. However yesterday I didn't want to go. Why? cause I wanted to do my laundry. However, I decided that for my recovery I had to make it my business to get over to the group. I'm glad I did. I admitted something that I never thought I would. And then I got tested on it after the group. I met up with one of the girls who was picking up her hubs and she talked me into joining the festivities. When I walked in I saw my hubs sitting alone outside the room getting ready to send me a text msg. He put this big smile and escorted me inside. He got me some food and a soda. We joined the girl who had talked me into coming and her husband. Then a few of the other guys got together and we had a blast!
FAMILY
I love my family so much. Even if they are a bunch of particular crazies. lol I still don't know where I'll spend the holidays but I know that I'll spend it with family. Whether my own family, my extended family or my new Church family. I'll keep you posted
RAINY DAYS
They are good for sleeping. So why am I at work? Oh yeah I know...so I could be able to afford an umbrella so I don't get wet on the way to work. lol
SHOPPING
I haven't been doing much of this lately. I guess its because my apartment is kinda on the small side. Or maybe its because I got no money. Or maybe its because my schedule is so hectic that I don't have time to do the things I want unless I take a vacation from work. lol
OK, Black Friday is around the corner. I want a cool camera for my birthday which is a few days before black Friday but so what. I could wait for the sale. lolol I'm going to go searching for the black Friday ads and see if i could come up with something cool. lol
LISY
OK OK so you got me. I didn't see the post yesterday. I was busy working. I didn't have a chance to go check out the blog. so sue me. yeesh! But come on its about time that you get on the ball. Don't you think??
And thank you for the gracious hostess bit. I appreciate it. I must treat you and your boo to a fancy sit down dinner soon. I'll make a nice salad and I'll make two entrees. Pork chops and some steak in salsa. lol That way I please you and your boo. lolol
You didn't tell me you won! How could you not tell me. You see how she's getting fellow blog readers. She has a bit of money and forgets about us poor people. Where's the love? lol Why didn't she buy me a present? That's what I want to know.
Girl, when I told your boo's boo*** that you had no wheels and you had to see him, the first words out his mouth was then give her the car. lol I was like alright. debate over. lol took all of 1 milisecond. lol
***(For those readers that are wondering about the boo's boo comment. All it means is that her fiancee and my husband are closer than 2 peas in a pod. They love one another as if they were lifelong brothers! So Lisy and I have an inside joke that they might be undercover lovers. lolol Cause they fight like 2 bitches too. They call the other's wife when they fight and complain about what they did. Then they call their own wives and complain. It's so funny. Then a few days later they are together like nothing ever happened. lol Bunch of weirdo's! lol)
Weekend
I have plans for this weekend. Saturday if things go well I'll go to the flea market at Giant's Stadium. If not, I'll go to the library and take out a few books and then I'll go home and relax. Sunday will be for Jesus and then after church I have to work. Yup. I start my new part time job on Sunday. Woo hoo. 31% discount here I come. lol
Well this is all for now. I'm busy at work. We're getting ready to send for my mother for the holidays. I'm so excited. I love my mother so much. I cant wait to see her!!
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