First or Last...baby!

WOW…has it been a couple of days. I had a great day on Tuesday, how could I NOT after crafting on Monday night, seeing Scott and getting Barista love on Tuesday morning???

I had a great work out with MM….quoted a lot from Talladega Nights. MM was sooooo happy that I FINALLY watched the movie…we worked hard. I had a few issues, come on now, who doesn’t have issues, right? LOL….anyways….I after working out, I headed to get a couple of things and FINALLY made it home. I’m in 2nd place now for the Cardio challenge…..but as long as I hit my “GOAL” then I’m a winner. MM says I’m a winner no matter what…and yeah…he’s right! SNORT tee hee.

Anyways, Wednesday was well hump day. “B” and I pooled, stopped at Heaven, and Scott was there!! YEAH. It was sooo funny….he said thanks for the wine…and didn’t mention the other stuff….it was too cute…we laughed all the way to work. Work was well work. Got a lot done….and then it started to snow? What the??

“B” and I left early…and off to home we went. We were laughing soooo hard about a few new nicknames…..and well the word “weathered” eeeks…too fun. Just love poolin’ with “B”.

After I got home and settled, I started to make a couple of cards using the polished stone technique. Here they are in their glory…or not…tee hee. I used Glossy White cardstock, Match Makers Cardstock, Purple #1 and Flora #1, krylon pen, and re-inkers from the Calypso Kaliedacolor pad. And the ribbon I dyed using the inks as well. All the products were purchased from The Angel Company…Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Swap

These are my latest creations. I am sending these into an Angel Company Group (My Paws) swap as well as using one for DIVA and one for my Mom and last, but not least, this is my make-n-take for the Scrappin' Friendzy!

I wasn't sure how these would turn out, as I only had a vision/sketch of the card....so it wasn't until last night while making them that it came together. I'm really happy with them...and they are very bright and cheery, and were very easy to make and assemble.

I used Ultrasmooth White cardstock, Black cardstock and Matchmakers Yellow #3 cardstock, Calypso Kalediacolor Pad, scrappers floss in black and a H.Swap Daisy with a button in the center. The stamped (in Palette Black Noir) saying is from TAC (More one liners) All products were purchased from TAC.

Now to send these off to their respective homes, and 60 kits to make!

Enjoy!

Barista LOVE

While I dropped off Scotts house warming present....he had one of the other guys make me a drink....and I just have to say....LOVE SCOTT....

The guy said what type of Milk is this Scott? Scott replied....make it with EXTRA LOVE...

Sweet....warm fuzzies!

Our guy...

SO when "B" and I carpool we stop at Starbucks on Elliott Ave and "Scott" is our guy. He is so much fun and we enjoy when he's there and miss him when he's not. Recently, Scott has been moving around...and a couple of weeks ago, he told us he moved to Capitol Hill.

On the way to work that day, "B" and I decided that we should bring him a station goodie house warming present. I got it all together and low and behold....we haven't had it when we've seen Scott. SO yesterday, we stopped and Scott was there. He said he would be there today...On the way to work, I was on a MISSION. I stopped to see Scott and dropped off his present (YES it's still corked)....look happy Scott!!!

Things I am grateful for....

The other day after receiving a couple of calls/emails about a recent post, I thought I would jot down what I was grateful for.

1 – My health, cuz quite frankly, without it – I wouldn’t be here.

2 – My friends and family – their love and support is so appreciated and needed.

3 – DIVA – without her, I don’t think I would be where I am, and besides, without her I wouldn’t get to diva kitty sit, tee hee.

4 – FT, Brian, Becks and Dave…cuz well without them, #1 would be sketchy – nuff said.

5 – Paper, Ink, Rubhar and Embellishments….these things make me who I am creatively.

6 – God. When it has gotten tough or when I think I can’t…I just remember to have faith in HIM and he gets me through it.

TGIF - Thank Freakin Goodness

SO I must confess - this week has been hard. I've had some hard workouts...this is my second week of 3 in a week. I've felt crappy....been tired...and have managed to stay somewhat on track. I do need to get my butt in gear and get caught up on my cardio for this week. I've been (with MM's okay) taking it easy after our workouts and not doing cardio...eeks and...just to get re-rested. Is that a word??? Who knows...lol...

Anyways...I so didn't want to go to work. I thought well, I called in sick yesterday, so it wouldn't be out of the realm to call in sick on Friday. BUT NO...I did go to work. I had stuff to do...and training meetings to go to...so I went in and did it all....got caught up, did the meetings, I did get my taxes filed...YEAH ME....2 things crossed of the list from Wednesday...tee hee....

I felt bad, as I replied to Heather's (hi Heather!) evite as a no go...I've got so much stuff to do at the apartments that I need to get it done before I head out of town for Portland in a couple of weeks for my classes....it would have been fun to go and hang out and stamp, but it would have used the whole day....and I need to go get supplies and inspect the building and talk with the painters and blah blah blah blah and make a laundry list for Tony to do on Tuesday as he hasn't been around for a couple of weeks....and I've got to stay focused. Fun will be had and I'll work on the happy birthday swap for TAC. So I'll at least stamp a little bit anyways.

SO I headed to see MM...and boy - man oh man did he work me - ugh...My arms were burning - so bad in fact on one of the reps I didn't use weights....eeeks...but I still felt it....and then we did a bit o boxing...and well a few other things....busy busy busy...but good. MM totally rocks!!! He is soooo funny.....and then it was time to do a bit of cardio...I hit the treadmill and then I started to shake...oh no...so I went and grabbed my purse and checked my bloodsugar...eeks 75 right after working out....uh can you say too low...so I grabbed a banana and got into the car...headed to the office to get something to eat and let it get normal....so here I am - its normal again..yeah...I feel so much better....now time to head home.

peace and love

A hard and very painful lesson learned

SO where were we? Yes...it was Wednesday. "B" dropped me off after work and I headed in. I happened to run into the CUTE Canadian...okay I must confess....he's HOT! Smokin HOT....okay so we chit chatted and he gave me a big hug!!!! Okay, so one crossed off the list...SWEET!

Anyways...I decided I wanted to take it easy. SO I made a very unusual dinner for me...hence the hard and very painful lesson learned.

See I didn't have my normal amount of water for the day. Then I hit the treadmill, I don't think I had more that a 1/4 of a bottle - then I made dinner. Oatmeal and scrambled eggs. Uh, yeah...okay I didn't know the deal about FIBER.

So needless to say, I woke up Thursday with very painful stomach cramps, and was dry yakking. Nice. UGH...so I called in sick, took some Aleve, curled up on the couch and belched...and drank water...and slept. Finally I started too feel better.

I went and worked out with MM and told him the story....he so busted up laughing - cuz that has happened to him too. Whew...I thought I was the ONLY DORK in the world that didn't know the fiber/water deal. Whatever...lol....anyways.....so I headed to see DIVA and then headed home...to watch Grey's.

Things I know for sure....

Random thoughts from today....

I am tired
I feel good
I am lonely
I miss “V”
I feel at peace
I want to create
I feel sorry for “V”
My feet are sore
I want to get caught up
Need more time in a given day
I want a nap
I wish my taxes were filed
I need a hug from a NICE HUNKY Man
I wish I could craft all day long

TA-DA!

It's finished. I wove the crystals and seed beads onto the larger of the two wire woven bezels. YEAH ME!

A little Spring

Woven BLING

SO Friday....School day!!! YEAH! I was sooo freakin excited. I slept in til 7 - wow...and then I got ready to head into Seattle to take the Wire Woven Bezel class at Fusion Beads from Lisa Niven Kelly!!! I couldn't wait!

It was soo great to see Lisa, as soon as I saw her, she said hi Chan!!! YEAH! Class was awesome, and I am sooo in LOVE with these bezels....watch out!!! More to come. SO here's what I made...enjoy!

So Happy Its Thursday!

WOW....what a freakin' fast week.

I had a great day on Thursday and put together this huge project that needed to be mailed out I am soooo glad that it is DONE.

Had a workout with MM...took the cardio challenge poster down and MM LOVED IT....sweet!...

Then I headed to the Villa at Wildwood...and look what was waiting for me...the DIVA kitty!

peace

My funny Valentine (The Talented Mr. Ripley)

MY most favorite version of this song....Enjoy!

peace, love and happiness

Happy Valentine's Day

SO here's to all those that we love, have loved and hope to love!

hugs, kisses and lots of love heading your way!

CARDIO Challenge

SO here it is...the altered Rocky Balboa Movie poster...we only got like a freakin' case of them in December at the office...so there was a huge pile of them in the lunch room the other day. SO I thought I would "alter" it...I'm taking it down to FT to put on the board.

I am sooo excited about this challenge. Basically between Feb 5- March 17 for every 30mins of cardio you do at FT you get 1 yard (1 pt) for every 30mins Outside of FT you get 3 yards (3 pts). SO since Thursday when I got the challenge...I have logged 15 yes 15 yards (15 pts) YEAH ME! I am gonna win this thing. I'm gonna annihilate my competition. I'm in it to WIN it!

SO wish me luck....and the prize??? Well the obvious...but also FREE sessions at FT. NOW that's what I'm talking bout!

peace

Scrappin Friendzy Update

Here is my final approved 12x12 page for Scrappin Friendzy. I am really excited about teaching this class. I will remock it with The Angel Company Supplies when then get in. BUT here it is...enjoy!

Catching up.....Again...

Okay so Wednesday was awesome. Went and meet Ultimate Trainer for a BNI meeting. Lots of fun. It was awesome. Finally was starting to feel better. YEAH!

Thursday...ugh was a hectic day - but I survived. Had a crazy day at work....and then I had a workout with MM. Which was rocking. Also heard from "V"... and then I took a quick trip out to see DIVA...and then home.

Friday....still in shock sorta but dealing. Had a busy day at work and then MM time. Had a great workout and then well...headed home.

This weekend....was a busy one. Lots of cardio...walked the track on Sat and Sun...did treadmill on Sat and then walked up and down the stairs a bagillion times doing "stuff"....all I know is that I feel freakin fantastic!!!

peace

Cliff Note Version Update

"V" is alive. However, WE are finished. I will spare you all the Jerry Springer antics. But - it is over. Our relationship, our long life friendship. DONE. Finished. Enough said.

Recap of the Recrap

This is what I know...

I feel icky - still feel crappy. I am sick. I am getting better. BUT I'm still sick.
"V" hasn't called or texted.
"V" hasn't called or texted.
Feel like a total loser, wondering what I have or have not done.
Want to punch "V". Want "V" to call and say he was in some horrible accident and couldn't call.
I'm not working out tonight. I coughed up a lung this morning doing my morning cardio. Thought I should take a night off.
Wednesday had better be a better day.

peace out.

he might be better off dead...or at least mamed.

Hi a'll ya'all

I feel crappy. yep crappy. Think I'm fighting all this crap that everyone else has brought to the office. I just wanna sleep and curl up. Right NOW.

Had a pretty good weekend. DID lots of errands on Saturday - it felt good to get out and do em...but the end result...the day vanished. Sunday...was church then to the "rents" was there way too long. DAY GONE.

SO you ask about the title?

Why YES, I do mean that title.

Sooo "V" hasn't called or even texted since Friday night. We had a great conversation...and he ended with he'd call me on Saturday. I called on Saturday and said I was out and about. I called on Sunday...and today too.

SO very frustrated. Trying not to be mad. Not working so much. It better be good. or at least the very least believable.

That's all I'm saying.

nuff said.

peace

Smokin H-O-T!!!

WOW....

It's Friday - hot clip day!

Last night - so rockin! I had my workout with MM...and met the new trainer - can you all say it with me?

EYE CANDY!

Got my contract and we talked about it...I signed my life away...lol...not really - but it felt like it...and then it was time to BRING IT!

Had a freakin fantastic workout. AND then it was time to hit the RB. Did my new cardio amount and then it was time...

DIVA time...headed to Issy and stopped at Subway grabbed the normal dinner and then off to the villa.

Had a great chat with DIVA and it was sooo good to see the Diva kitty. Watched a bit of tv then headed home.

Today has just been rockin....

Got up, hit the RB and then got ready for "B" to pick me up and then we headed to heaven and saw our favorite barista! And then off to the ofc.

Busy morning and oh no....

FIRE ALARM - EVACUATE THE BUILDING

No problem....hiked down....and rocked it...

the only problem??? No cute firemen coming to check on me in the fire stairwell...

*SNORT*

but the feeling of rockin it?? Priceless!

SO here's to a rockin rest of the day....

and HOT CLIPS on the way home

peace

The dawning of a NEW Day

SO here it is....

DAY 1 of my 2nd 90-day contract with MM. I don't have my contract yet, but I do know what is included and I even added a few things....Yeah ME!

Thank you to all of you (MeMe & Humpfree) for the kind words. Yes, I will need encouragement....but I've got faith and I trust and I have the love and support of some really great people! - so really I can't fail.

Last night I really thought about how I was feeling about my contract and about failure and changes etc etc...and I am at peace with it. I decided if I just did what I know I am to do. Make time for me to do it...and leave the rest to MM and to God...I will be fine.

Today was interesting to say the least. I was all dressed up, hair done, makeup on...and it was time to head down to FT - GIP had agreed to take a pic of me for my journal. This is NOT the picture that is in my journal for the last day of my 1st contract.

This picture will be the 1st page of my next journal. Diana at work took this picture and so I am sharing it with you all!

I was invited to attend a meeting with Ultimate Trainer next week, apparently I've the favorite client at FT....WAHOO!

lots of love

An end of sorts...and the start of another 90 day tour

Today is the end of my 90 day contract with MM.

WOW.

It went by quickly. The looming of the new contract is having a toll on me. Why? Many reasons, financially, mentally, physically, emotionally. There is always the fear of failure.

I need "V" here. But do I really? I know I needed a big hug this morning. I needed someone to say to me "Sweetheart, don't forget to take a couple of Aleve's on your way to work". There are so many things that I think I need or want. But really do I need them or have to have them?

I think I talked to MM more today than I have outside of our workout time in the last 90 days. Sad. Very sad. I told MM I need more from him. He says he's there for me. I hope so, cuz I'm gonna need it.

I just want to cry right now. Why? Not really sure. But I have been on the urge of tears all day. Maybe it is realizing that I am saying goodbye to the ole Chan and hello to the MORE New and Improved Chan. I don't know. All I know is I just want to cry and I need "V" to hold me. Maybe I realized today that the start of this new contract and what it entails will be saying goodbye not only to the ole me but to "V". I don't know. Maybe it's the fear of failure. Letting MM down, Who knows?

MM is asking a lot of me. But really - its what I should be doing anyways...so what makes it different? I think it's the fact of it being on paper. Being accountable for it - 100% of the time. And just doing it.

I've chosen two new people to be accountable to in addition to MM, one is smooth, and the other becks. I haven't heard back from becks...but I am sure she's in. I know she can help, being the first trainer I ever had...if she got me started, she can keep me going. And smooth, he's been sooo supportive and encouraging - and I need that.

I know this is what I need to get over the hump. It's almost been 6 months since I have started this...I've come a LONG way - but have so much further to go.

I am going to do my picture a day for the length of my new contract again...I think it will help to really record what's happening. I think I will have more emotion on this one. And many more struggles. The end result...will be ROCKIN!

MM's excited, I'm nervous. BUT I trust him...can I trust myself?

Smooth just came over and talked to me....I feel a bit better. And he's right...I have to let go of the "SAFE" Me.

So here's to that.

Here's to taking the NEXT STEP!

And here's to what I want the most to do

ACHIEVE!

peace out

An unexpected surprise!

Today was Monday. I got ready and was ready to go - "B" called and said he was gonna be late. Okay - now what do I do...so I made coffee and toasted an english muffin. He called as I got downstairs and said he was gonna be even later. SO, I decided to take my car to pops so he could change the oil.

Got there..."B" wasn't there yet....ugh...oh well - and then "B" showed up. We headed to work and got there late of course...but oh well, what is one to do? I was in a good mood, I had my favorite coffee and an warm english muffin...life was good.

Got working and caught up with everyone - and before I knew it - it was lunch time...Sweet!

Did a little sketching on my scrapbook page I'm to teach - still don't have it all figured out yet...and then back to work.

Finished with a last minute project - of course...and then...."B" was late. Oh well...what's one to do??? We headed home =- traffic was like NON EXISTANT - YEAH - made it to Ballard in record time...and "B" dropped me off at Midas.

Pops had not only changed my oil, but adjusted my brakes, rotated my tires, and cleaned the inside of my car - YEAH!

SO I gave him a big ole kiss and headed home. I got home, made a little dinner - did a little time on the RB - and then it was time for 24. I was sitting looking at my mail during a commercial and realized I hadn't checked my mail at work. Dork.

Anyways...here it is Tuesday - traffic was really bad on the way in, but when I got to the office, I checked my mail - and this was waiting for me.

What a nice surprise - Thank You MEME!!! I miss you too! This totally made my day!!!!

peace

A day of rest

After herc'ing stuff upstairs, I got ready for church and headed out. Great service. I headed home did a few things and then it was time to head to the nursing home to do a little community service with my fellowship group.

We sang songs and did a little service. It was nice. And then - up to the "rents" Had a nice visit and then it was time to go home and get ready for Monday. WOW - where did the weekend go?? It was totally fun and filled.

Reinkers, Krylon, Alcohol and Cotton Balls OH MY!

So here it was Saturday morning! I awoke to the sounds of the birds. Yep those squawking birds – so much nicer than the loud siren noise of the ambulances, firetrucks, or the shrill of metro buses brakes. SO where was I? Oh yeah – totally snuggled in bed with a warm Diva kitty next to me. Nice. Now where was my man? Yeah – NO still – ugh…life can’t be perfect all the time. Anyways…So I got up, made a little breakfast and got ready to head to Jessica’s for a little candle party and stamping with Heather – yeah! I grabbed my swap cards (see previous post) and an extra one for Jessica! And off I went.

I was able to drive the back W900 highway all the way to Maple Valley – Sweet! I found Jessica’s place without any drama of counting speedbumps..etc!

What a fun time. Jessica and Heather’s friends are sooo nice. Mostly they were all from their church…and I was embraced into the fold. So nice. We went thru the Party Lite catalog and the speal and then it was time for a little light lunch. Sandwiches were laid out and everyone dove in…yummy! And then…it was time to stamp!!! Yeah!

Heather took out all her stuff and showed us what we were going to be making. Too fun and cute!

We made the card and matching little goodie filled can. Using the polished stone technique, with Glossy cardstock, rubbing alcohol, 3 colors of palette reinkers, and a Krylon Silver pen and a cotton ball. TOO much fun. We also used the heart-itude stamp set from The Angel Company, and the jewel tone shimmer chalk set with a matching Palette ink pad. Heather had cleverly opened the bottom of a spinach can and cleaned it out, taking the label off. We attached the paper and filled the can with chocolate and then put the bottom back on sealing it with Crystal Lacquer. And Tada….the finished project. I will be doing more using this polished stone technique. Thanks Heather!

I then headed out, back to the Villa, to do a little house cleaning and laundry etc….and then I decided to sit down and take a break…I got totally hooked on Top Chef on Bravo…man can Marcel rock the hair product…now I’m hooked and will have to watch the season finale on Wednesday. SO I was a cleaning, vacuuming and the Diva HATES the vacuum, sorry Diva Kitty! And then I totally crashed on the recliner….ugh…I woke about 11:30 and decided to stay and just slept on the recliner, cuz I had just changed the sheets and made DIVA’s bed….

Up and out I went at 7AM on Sunday….out to scrap the car of ice…load my stuff in and over the 1-90 back to Ballard….herc’d my stuff upstairs and then got ready for church….

All about the Heart-itude

SO where was I??

Oh yeah…Friday at work.

*SNORT* enough said…lol…

So flippin glad it was Friday!

SO I headed home after work. Traffic blew. Blew huge. Made it home, and did a few apartment manager things…ha ha ha…who me?? Apartment manager?? Lol…why yes! That's me!

DIVA called, she was having a rough day. I felt bad I wasn’t there to give her a big ole hug. Apparently the letter from the Diva Kitty to her Human (DIVA) was a hit! Sweet! I headed out, stopping at Joann’s to grab some ribbon And then…back to the VILLA.

It always amazes me as I am heading to the Villa, how relaxed I become. It’s like all the stresses of the day, life etc, just melt away as I turn up Wildwood. I just love that. It’s like going home. I got there…and lugged my crafty stuff inside.

I met up with the Diva Kitty, went and laid down on the bed, and we talked. Okay her mostly meowing…and me petting her. And then it was time to get to business.

I started to make my cards for my card swap. I used DCVW Match Makers white core paper in Pink #1, Pink #2 and Red #2, and used White Ultra Smooth Cardstock.. I stamped the image using Black Noir Palette and the Heart-itude set from The Angel Company. I used Prismacolor pencils and Gamsol to color the images. And then a little ribbon from JoAnne’s. I really liked how this card came out and will be using it for my valentine’s day card for my special group of people. Hope you like it!

After crafting for a bit, I headed to bed and the Diva Kitty curled up next to me….awe…just love that.

Gamsol Rocks!

Okay so all day yesterday my blood sugar was running low. What the??? Was busy doing things, and then it was time to stamp with Cyn at lunch.

I of course, had most of my stuff, but not all. I needed to get some paper to work on my cards for the Valentine's Day Swap with the StampNPaws TAC angel group. I just need to make 4 cards for the swap, but I always make one for a sample, and then I thought I would make one for Jessica who is a friend of Heather's that invited me to a candle party. And then...well I have a friend or two that could use a little pick me up...so I'll make a card or two to send for them. BUT - I figured out my card layout...wow...who would have thought?? I used cardstock from work in obnoxious colors BUT I actually did the Gamsol Prisma pencil technique. I am totally hooked! I love the softness of it, how it just flows so nicely.

So I finished up with work...and my bloodsugar was LOW...so I totally drank my entire protein drink and then headed to workout with MM.

MM beat me up, he worked me hard, and I delivered. WOW...what an intense workout. I was sooo beat afterwards...I could only barely manage 10 minutes on the treadmill afterwards. I grabbed a banana and headed to the Issy.

I started to feel a bit better, so I headed to go get my paper at Mad Scrapper and then went to Michaels to see about some ribbon. I also found a little something to alter for Heather at work, for her babyshower. Sweet. I then headed to Subway and grabbed a wrap.

I called "B" and bailed on carpool...I couldn't even imagine going home at that point....so I headed to the Villa - got there, ate my wrap and started to feel a bit better. I did a load of laundry (love the washer and dryer right out side the door) and then curled up with the Diva kitty and watched Grey's.

It has been a strange week for me, but a good one. I am so glad I can help DIVA by taking care of the Diva Kitty...and it has been a good break for me from the apt building.

I got up and got ready this morning, I decided I would go home tonight, grab a few things, and then head back out to the Villa, spend the night...and then go to Jessica's in the AM, and afterwards, stop at the Villa, do a little cleaning and then head home for good. DIVA will be back Sunday afternoon...and that way, everything will be done, clean, and I won't have to worry about rushing Sunday morning to church.

I'll post the cards as soon as they are done!

ciao

LOVE IS - What I got!

So this week has been so out of my normal routine, BUT – I’m rocking it!

So where was I?? Oh yeah – work via Back Alley Salley! Love the short cut. Had a good day at the office….and then it was MM time! Sweet! So I headed down…and what a freakin’ workout – man oh man – you could certainly tell it had been 10 days since we did the normal routine…I was in pain – but good pain. I rocked it! I have to confess that MM gave me a pile of crap for wearing my big yellow tee shirt. He’s like – I thought you were gonna wear your NEW white one from the weekend class??? Huh? And so everytime I went to pull up the sleeves, he’s like bet you wouldn’t have to do that with the NEW one….Son of a &*()^…and I got a new book - wow - time flyies, anyways….after my workout… it was time to head back to the villa…

Got to the villa and the Diva kitty was waiting for me…we hung out, I did laundry, again, and made dinner. I packed up all my stuff and headed out about 10ish to go home. Got home and lugged everything upstairs…and back down 2 flights. (thanks GIP) and then finally inside. I pretty much left everything packed up, knowing I was just gonna pack it again. Drifted off to sleep…man was I beat – but in a good way.

Got up on Wed and was getting ready and then the phone rang….”B” was calling to tell me he couldn’t pool…son of a – so whatever….I just grabbed all my stuff and packed the car and off to work I went. Had an interesting day at work. I went to lunch with Cindy and got a call from Diamond Don. What the??? LOL…it was interesting to say the least. Towards the end of the day…I was almost freakin’ out – what am I gonna do about working out – I’ve been trying to hit the treadmill everyday – no treadmill at the VILLA…What a second…there’s a gym at the office building…So I left work and hit the gym. MAN oh MAN…I rocked it – 40 mins – did some bench presses and then I headed out. Went shopping for some fruit at Safeway – then headed to the villa. I got there and did a few crunches…and as I was just stretching my back the diva kitty jumped up on my tummy….totally freaked me….lol….too funny!

Watched a bit of tv and played with the diva kitty…and then off to bed. I so didn’t want to get up – but I did…and when I was leaving – there was tons of ice on my windshield…What the??? So out came the Kinko’s pre-paid card to scrap the windows…lol…then back alley salley…the to the office.

When I got to the office…my boss…bought donuts again…for the love of pete…but what the heck – I had a good breakfast – with grapes. And during lunch Cyn and I are gonna stamp!! Yeah!

peace

The Villa at Wildwoods

Well Monday was an interesting day. To say the least. Had a fairly productive and busy day. I pooled with "B" we stopped at heaven....and then well he had to bail and I needed to find a ride home. So Schwartzie took me. We decided to play a prank on "B". When we got to my place, I called "B" on his cellie...and said hey...I'm concerned....Schwartzie isn't at the office and the gals at the front desk said he left a while ago...are you sure he knew he was to take me home tonight??? "B" was silent...then in his best tommy boy impersonation...Son of a ...lol...then we told him....very fun-ney!

I got a few things together and then headed out....off to take care of the DIVA kitty. Poor DIVA...her mom passed away this weekend and I told her I would take care of the kitty. I'm glad that I am able to help out in anyway...so I packed stuff down and then into the car and off I went to Issy. Got there...lugged everything in...then went to look for the DIVA kitty. Finally found her...in her hiding spot....and then she just started Meowing.....and Meowing....finally after about 10 minutes of it...she came down, I sat down and she climbed into my lap and just purred while I petted her....then it was time for 24....and then bed time....she came and slept next to me...it was very very nice....and then this morning...it was like we were old pals...like I had been there a whole week.....usually it takes a day or two for her to warm up to me....but not this time...she was in it for full attention....so then off to work I went....

Back Alley Salley...gotta love that...no freeway...no traffic...15 minutes to work....Sweet....more later...but here's a pic of the Diva Kitty for ya!

peace

Me and Donna Downey

Taking a class from the rockstar of paper crafting!

WOW….yep that’s me and donna downey. YEAH donna! So here’s how the day played out…

I got up, did what needed to be done…and was ready to leave about 7am. I headed up to the Midas and stopped to see pops. He wanted to make sure my car was okay for the trip. Thanks pops! So there I was on the road at 7:35am…stopped to fuel up and then 1-5 BABY!!!

Made it to Portland in great time. Talked to a couple of people on the way down, including momma char! And I finally arrived. I drove around a bit…and it was sorta weird…I had been there before….and I knew where stuff was….then it hit me….Diamond Don….eeks…that is all that I needed…so as I was driving back up to Scrapbook Attack…I was him…his place is right on the road…and he was there. It was almost like a Sleepless in Seattle moment…but I was driving…wow…he has changed. But his smile is the same. He saw me. I know he did. He got into his truck and started to follow me.

I saw him pull out behind me, but I continued to head back to the store. I got there, parked talked to momma char and then grabbed my stuff and headed to the store. As I was crossing the road to the store…there he was. He stopped…and opened his window to talk to me. I told him I was there to take a couple of classes but I would be done around 4:30 – closer to 5 if he wanted to come back and talk. He said sure…he’d meet me at the coffee shoppe next door.
Whew…now to class….

I got there and there was Doralisa…Hiya DL! It was soo good to see a familiar face. I got my packets and headed downstairs. And there she was…the ROCKSTAR herself of papercrafting, donna downey!!!

Class started (the portfolio album see below), and wow…too much fun. She told the story of the nametags…and proceeded to give everyone a “new” name. Mine – Chaka as in Chaka Khan – love that…must tell Schwartzie at work since he always calls me Rama Chan…..I need this new name…lol….It was so funny to actually “sit” on my project to make the glue work….it was a funny sight to see everyone get up and sit on their album covers…

Donna total the story of the green drill….priceless – totally worth the drive down…and then…it was time to make the purse album. The company that makes the actually kit to this class has all the kits back ordered - so it was WING IT time…which actually was soo cool. I totally loved both projects and can’t wait to make them TAC friendly and possibly even teach a class or two!

Anyways….it was time to go…and donna graciously signed my drill (see below) and I got my picture taken….and that will be going into my picture a day journal that Stacy challenged me on…so then it was time to head out before running into Diamond Don…

I said goodbye to DoraLisa and her friends, we are gonna hook up at CK in Portland in March…and then I headed out to the car….

When I got to the car…I called momma char and then I was time to take off…..but nope…couldn’t Diamond Don was right there…knocking on my window….I’m not ready to blog about that yet….I will say that it went fine, and that I made it home after 9pm on Saturday evening….

But to sum up the donna downey experience – PRICELESS!

Portland Crafting "LOOT"

Here is a snapshot of all my goodies I brought back with me from Portland. And of course, a huge smile, and a lot of memories and yes INSPIRTATION!!!!!!!!!!!!

See below for descriptions and closer pictures! Enjoy!!!

6x6 Portfolio Album

Here it is....from the front....I have to think about the plaque on the front and the way it was held together....gotta mess with the cording...but I totally love it!!! I can't wait to make my 4x4 mini one for Scrappin' Friendzy in March...I'll post the TAC version when it's completed!

Inside of Portfolio Album

This is a 6x6 portfolio album. Just love this....I have now be asked by Tammy (hi Tammy) if I am going to teach this class. The answer is YES...I will. I am gonna totally make it TAC of course and I will make it a 4x4 - I think it will be priceless at that size...love mini-albums!!! The green drill was used on this project...and I think the green drill will have to make another appearance...lol. I just love how the pages pull out and that there are tags to "add just one more thing" to each pocket!

The Green &%^#@ Drill

Yes it is a drill....It's made by Fiskars and it's one of Donna's favorite tools. I had never used one of these before, but I did purchase it at Michael's with a 40% coupon and a gift card...gotta love that. Donna was such a sport to sign my drill....

The story of the drill was definately worth the drive to Portland...yes the story is definately worth 195 miles one way to hear it!!! I will be sealing this signature using the Krylon spray...and I will have to make little shelf in my craft closet for display....but don't fear - I will use this drill again!

Purse Journal

Okay I have to admit....this is too stinkin cute! We were supposed to use this "kit" to make this project - but they didn't arrive....I actually am glad as it was more fun to WING IT...I totally love this idea, I have a ton of ideas of how to make it my own!

Inside of the Purse Journal

This is the inside of the purse journal. The theme was a 1001 things you want to do....I don't know if I will ever figure out a 1,001 things to do...but I sure have lots of ideas for this little gem of a project!

Its Time to GO.....Portland or BUST

Okay....so here we go oh oh oh

Friday after work I headed off to first meet my customer Tammy....hi Tammy!!! Well traffic just plain suxed. I called her and explained the situation and she said that I could stop by later so I'm heading there on Sunday...and will show her what I made with Donna!!

I made it to church at 6:50....yes traffic really suxed....and after finding a spot to park, I headed inside to meet up with Barb. So we started to chat about the group and what we wanted to do...etc etc etc....

NO

One

Showed

Up...

UGH...but I got to know Barb and we are gonna meet the 3rd Friday of each month so now it is set!!!

SO it's time to go...

So long, farwell...

PORTLAND OR BUST!!!

I'm sooooo excited!!!!

peace out

Okay I am FINALLY getting EXCITED...

WAHOO.....

Lets get a little bit rowdy....

R
O
W
D
E
Y!

It is almost time....it is almost 3:30 and soon it will be 5pm then off to drop off some paper to a customer and then to church to do a bit of scrappin...then home...and then...

PORTLAND - HERE I COME!!!

I am gonna meet Donna Downey and I can't wait!!!

more later!

Finally to this week....

Let's make it a quickie shall we???

Monday....Part 2 of 24 - heart racing. I actually didn't watch it. What the?? I had fellowship meeting...and got home late....and then....the real threat of snow.

Tuesday - snow....yeah...ugh...moved my workout with MM to Wednesday...and carpooled with "B" and another gal from work - crazy scary driving day. What the??? Whew...the day was finally over....headed home....snow was gone...yeah!!!

Wednesday - crazy day at work....everything due 3 days ago. Had a late work out with MM...it was awesome...walked an entire mile at a 2.0 incline afterwards...woot...and then back to the office til around 12Midnight...ugh.....

Thursday - didn't want to go to work....did go...it was just as crazy as Wednesday...then I had a workout with MM....which was challenging...I was tired from Wednesday...and it showed....must keep to the day off inbetween....then home to watch a bit of tv and get ready for Friday nights activities and Saturdays as well. I think I'm ready...but who really knows???? LOL...

So here's to Friday....may it be full of fun and adventure!

A week just melted away with the rain...

Literally.

So I just realized that I haven't blogged about anything that has happened, exciting or not since Saturday's creative block statement.

BOO

Okay so let's get everyone caught up.

Good things are to come. Promise.

Sunday...went to church, and then headed out to Sam's club. Got my good stuff and then headed to Issaquah. Where I was on a quest.

So here's the missing link, see Saturday night I had gotten an email from a blog friend that I should go to Target and pick up their $1 tin container shaped like a mailbox. It even has a flag. They are with the valentines day stuff...in white and red...she says. Me....what the??? How could I have missed these? I was just at Target the other day. Mercy me.

SO after I get over my complete shock of how did I miss these gems....I go into search mode. ala MUST acquire mode...... I log back onto the puter...and start searching to find all the local Targets and get their numbers. I call North, South, East and West....FINALLY....I found a few in Issaqauh and they would be MOST happy to hold them for me. I felt that I was on some sort of quest - for the holy grail...lol....so part one of the quest was complete.

Now to part two....after Sam's club I had to make a decision. Do I go home, and unload the stuff or do I go to Target get the grail and then head home unload and then go to the "rents" Well it was really cold, so I thought....let's go...get the GRAIL....so off I went to Issaquah. As I approached Issaquah...the roads were getting worse. No mind you....we had snow the other day...and then a BIG FREEZE...and this is Jesse Jones...lol...okay if you are from here you got that one...if not....so sad too bad....anyways...back to the story...so I made it...whew...and then I had them...YEAH!!!!!!!!

Now back to the car...back home and to lugg everything upstairs and put it away....ugh...nap time for like 15 minutes then off to the "rents" and then the best thing EVER.....

24

YEAH!
Whoot!

Rock on!

peace

Funky Cold Medina

It’s Saturday, and UGH so I realized that I’m in a creative FUNK. Yeah. Great. I’ve got some projects that I WANT to do. Some that I NEED to do, Some that I SHOULD do…ugh….so where does one begin to get out of the FUNKY COLD MEDINA???

I’m excited about my projects – but I just need to just do them I think. I am hoping that my Friday Nite Scrappin Meeting at church will help spur me on….okay one can only hope.

Fa la la it's Friday

So it was still icey...so I waited a bit....and headed in - most everyone was there...but I'm glad I waited....better to be safe than sorry.

A very typical day - boring....ugh....and Chrissy's last day. So there you have it in a nut shell...nothing to exciting.....sorry to bore you alll.....but too bad so sad for you....ha!! Anyways, I headed home....and then to Costco for a few things...including a box of lil cuties!!! And then...nothing too exciting when I got home.

But I do know one thing, I've got to get pumped up for next week that is for sure!


So here's to getting pumped up....booyah!

To oblique or not that is the painful question

So after a leisurely morning...and waiting for the ice to melt...I headed into the office. The drive wasn't so terrible and then I attempted to make it up the hillllll...alll icey and icky. I made it up part way and decided to sneak into a lower parking garage that I knew I would be able to make it out of .....sweet!

I headed up to the office and got what needed to be done. Hardly anyone was there. I was glad I made it in even though a snow day would have been nice...but hey it's all about doing what's right. They closed the office at 3:30 and I had called to see if I could move my MM time up to 4:30...Nice....so I went in and we worked my Obliques like no other. Those side to side then regular crunches just kick my butt...eeeks....anyways we had a nice chat after and I hit the RB before heading home. Yes home....I know its normally a diva tv night...but the hill to the villa is all snowed in...so off to home I went.

Well its almost Grey's time....

peace out!

Slip Sliding Away....

SO...thank you for those of you who were concerned as to weather or not...lol I made it home. Yep I sure did. Barely.

So here's the story of HOW I made it out of the garage. Basically, the awesome building management engineer guys put de-icer on the hill out of the drive....and it had melted some, so there was a bit of pavement showing....

SO I got a running start and as I was cresting the hill I gave it one last punch of gas...and up and over the hump I went....then it was omg....low gear low gear....tap tap on the brake thank goodness for those huge speedbumps...I made it down to the light and took a right up to Eastgage as from where I was to I-90 it was bumper to bumper.....so I took the other route...and was lucky to follow a sand truck - yeah sand truck. SO I stopped at the Shell station to fill up and then to the freeway we go oh oh oh...lol....and I made it home...yeah home. Then it started to snow again.

I was sooo happy to be home. I was home by 10pm....so I did a few calls, a few emails...and then off to sleep i went.

peace

Murphy SUX...

SO it was a typical Wednesday...they said snow...no real snow...so drat headed to work. Had a fairly normal - semi boring evening...and then....it got really really dark. And there was hail. And snow....we tried to leave....

but no go...

we couldn't get out of the parking garage.

D
R
A
T

And the worst of it...the chains that I got from cyn cyn....don't fit my car. double drat!

Anyways....working in radio we have trade...yeah trade....so some brave souls hiked down to applebee's and brought food....yeah food...and salads! So there you have it....it's 8pm, I am at the office....I-90 westbound is gridlocked...and well...so be it....I'm here - stuck...

But:
1 - I'm safe
2 - I'm warm
3 - I have food
4 - I'm okay
5 - I have most of the comforts of home....

So, really - that is all that matters...

So here's to hopefully getting home soon - perhaps tomorrow...

peace out

9575 and counting...

What is that you say??? 9575? What is that? That is how many steps I have walked today. Yep today. Yeah me....*snort*.

So I finished the day...pretty typical. Normal bs and such. I left at 5pm to get ready for my time with MM. YIPPEE....lol...so I headed down to good ole ft...hit the rb and then it was MM time - not to be confused with Hammer Time. Did our thang....MM threw in a few "new things" and I must ask...Why does he have to been sooo mean to me??? Snort...lol...I know its good for me but come on...lol...ayways we finished up and I headed back out to the Rb, did a bit more...and then into the car...for more adventure and fun...lol.

SO I headed to Albertsons by the office I needed some yogurt or smooties or something for breakfast...and then some apples....why yes...apples....then I headed towards home, only to realize that my entire backseat was filled with freakin telephone books....ugh I totally forgot...I had put them in there this morning so I would dump them after work...and so Tony wouldn't dump them into the already full recycle bins especially since we're to get more winds...and quite frankly I don't want to pick up trash again...lol....so I headed up to Central Market and then dumps all 25 sets of phone books...and decided to head inside and walk around a bit...a few extra steps...why not....so anyways....I headed home and headed upstairs...and then back down one flight (that's just for you GIP) and then...here I am...blogging before heading to bed....and I'm all caught up all caught up....neener neener neener...

peace out peeps

I Am Officially Caught Up!!!

Just a quick post to say

I'm officially caught up....its tuesday and I'm posting on Tuesday. Been a strange day...but a day none the less. I've got a workout with MM...and we're supposed to get another huge storm. SO hopefully, I'll post more about today when I get home...

peace

Are You Kidding Me????

Okay it’s Monday. Back to the grind. “B” is in da house in the poolin category – we stopped at heaven, still a no go for me…I’m being good, or trying to be. Harrumph…So we get to work, tons of stuff, projects and all the sort of stuff that happens on a Monday. So here we go again…..glad I packed my lunch.

Speaking of lunch, I started to sort thru my a picture a day for 90 days project. I still am compiling pictures…I have what like 22 days to go….and then…tada! I’ll be done. I’m really glad I have been journaling while I’ve been going….as it’s a big project. The good thing is that my camera program takes all the pictures and sizes them for you…sweet…so that should be easy to do…so the major part after all the paper is cut will be writing the “word” and then what I felt that day…but it will be a kewl project when I am done. I am actually thinking of doing it again, we will see. IF MM gives me another contract – then I must take the challenge and not only do that – but the picture a day. Then I can work on my All about me journal for my 38th bday.

WOWZA…I’m gonna be 38 in April. What the??? LOL….My purpose on purchasing the All About Me kit was to chronicle where I was at when I turned 38th. I think it will be a good time. I might even take the day off of work to just work on it or – I also had thought about attending an all day Crop at the Bee’s Knee’s on the 14th…sounds like fun – we’ll see…BUT I want to do it and get it done.

I have lots of fun things classes etc coming up and I can’t wait. I’m really excited about my upcoming classes the weekend of the 20th. My tee shirt came today…and I’m wearing it already…okay under my sherpa sweater – but I’m wearing it!!!

Finally the day came to an end….thank you…what a freakin day…the traffic was not so bad on the way home….had to run when I got home and okay smarty go to a party, lol anyways….so I didn’t take care of the phone books that are in the lobby again…for the love of pete – stop delivering like 40 sets…every month…UGH!!!! Anyways, I got a few things done (not much) then talked to “V” and headed to sleep….

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

The saga of catching up…continues….but I’m bound and determined to do it.

New Year’s Day was a day with the nephews, bro and sil at the “rents” and then it was so long farewell…and off they went. I was sooo happy to see them.

Now – back to normal life…whatever that is….lol!


SO it was Tuesday….the 2nd day of the New Year. A workout day. Back to Work Day. Stuck in Traffic Day. Nuff said. I do have to admit it is nice to be back on some sort of schedule….sorta…but I was kinda getting used to coming in late, no carpooling, no boss around….no account executives around…oh well…

Wednesday – it was poolin time with “B” and what fun we had. I avoided having a “treat” at heaven (starbucks), “B” was concerned said are you feeling okay??? LOL. But Oh well. LOL….anyways…work was good, got lots done, traffic sucked and then it was back home. I had been deciding on a word for me to concentrate on for the year. It was a challenge from Ali Edwards…after much debate, and thought, I chose the word ACHIEVE. SO that’s my word. Now let’s see if I can live up to it.

Thursday – back in the car again, driving, wasn’t feeling too hot hot hot….but I powered thru it. I made it okay…..I managed to finish the day…and then it was off to see MM. I thought I was okay…but as I got closer – not so much….oh well. He noticed right off the bat that I wasn’t in my “A” game mode….I did try. And then it was time to go see DIVA. I went to Michaels before heading to her place to get white letters to alter to spell achieve. Used a gift card – sweet…still not feeling too hot, but a bit better…stopped at Subway and got our dinner…and then off to DIVA’s. We had a great chat, she could tell I wasn’t on my game…we played with Dottie and then it was time to go. I had received a call from a tenant about being locked out. I called them told them I was on my way back…so they would wait at the bar down the street. Nice. Got home, let them in…and off to crash.

Friday came and went without too much stress. “B” and I pooled…work was okay…I was swamped. People are leaving….I ended up doing a ton of stuff that needed to be notarized…glad that’s done…and then it was time. Time to head home. Time to be stuck in the rain. UGH. Finally made it home around 7pm. Nice. Fixed some dinner, and settled in to watch Pirates of the Caribbean. I came to the conclusion that I shouldn’t talk to “Frank” anymore since he sent me flowers. Obviously, he thinks there more there…and quite frankly – no pun intended…he’s married. I’m with “V” so that’s that. So I’ve been avoiding his calls. His emails, his text messages.

Got up Saturday and went to go a few errands. The Seahawks had a game and I wanted to be sure to watch it. I drove around, got my mandatory errands done, while I passed the stadium, I was shocked, okay not really to see that some of the parking was $Fity yes $50 dollars…what the??? Anyways….got it all done, and got home and was making a very late brunch…with scrambled eggs when the phone rang. A couple of friends called and said they were gonna be in town, at golden gardens and asked if I wanted to hook up. Hummm, a dog, a couple of kids, good friends, at my favorite place….SWEET….so off I went and we had lots of fun, did a bit of walking, talking, playing etc…and then the kids wanted to go to Ivars. Nice. SO we all headed over there…we talked while the kids were eating….and then it was time to say our goodbyes…and time for the football game.

The game…..all I can say is that I hope MM had a great time, I enjoyed the game, had a few laughs and glad that the Seahawks won, even if it was only by a wing and a prayer.

Sunday – the normal…church, errands, and the “rents” BUT I did talk to MeMe….yeah!!! It had been too long….and then I stopped at the store for a few things that I needed for lunch. I got home, brought everything upstairs, did the stupid GIP thing…ugh….and then I unpacked all the stuff, made a good lunch for Monday…and then it was time to drift off….

I'm late I'm late...well more like still bee-hind

It occured to me that I am still one week behind in my blogging stories. I am bound and determined to get caught up and stay caught up.

I am sitting here typing away and listening to the wind howl. A week ago I was getting ready to go see my nephews on NYE in Bremerton. I had planned on going after church and spending some time with them. I knew they would be with my sil parents and all the cousins..BUT it didn't matter. It was all about the nephews.

I had a pretty typical day, nothing too special and then I headed out with a few friends to go see The Holiday. We had a good time, and then I headed home. I had been trying to convince my father to go with me to go see the boys. He kept hymming and hawying...it was driving me crazy he couldn't or wouldn't make up his mind and kept telling me to call him later - whatever...so I drifted off to sleep...

I got up early on Sunday, got ready for church, packed a day bag and headed out the door. I called pops from the car and he was well I don't know....call me after church. What the??? So I continued to church. The service was very lovely and then...back out to the car. I had a message from pops....don't go yet, hang on, I'm taking your mom shopping...I'll call you when I get home. Okay that was an hour or so earlier....what the?

So I haded out and went to fill up the car with gas and started to head to Starbucks and then he called. He was sooo grumpy and said where do you want to meet??? And so forth and so on and back and forth and grumpy ness insuded. Anyways....I basically said I'll come get you...and he hung up on me. Whatever. Anyways, I got him and he didn't talk to me til about seattle...what the??? Anyways....we had a good trip over to Bremerton.

We got to our destination and then we hoped back in the car to go pick up the kids. After a little bit, we all decided to head back. So Bee-rom said can I have your keys....so I handed them to him and the next thing I knew...he was in the front seat and driving us....eeeks....lol...

We had a fantastic time. It was so good to see the boys again...and to see them be themselves...they are a little held back when they are at my parents house.

The highlight....was Bee-rom not only playing but singing to me "what would you say" by DMB. My heart just floated far far away....

So it was time to leave and pops and I headed out...back to everett...dropped him off and then I headed back home. It was a pretty silent evening....watched the fireworks....prayed about the upcoming year....reflected back to what was...3 years ago and am bound and determined to continue forward.

Back to the GRIND

WOW…Thursday appeared like out of no-where I tell you. NO Freakin Where. What the? Okay so I managed to get to work, still feeling warm and fuzzy from all the nephew hugs and kisses. AND on top of cloud 9 after my doctors appointment - But oh no back to reality. I thought for sure I would be able to get some organizational stuff done around the office…with most of my account execs out. BUT OH NO…NOT ME…come on Chan…be realistic….don’t they always leave you with a pile of stuff when you are just about to go somewhere or are gone??

So pile of stuff. Ugh. Stuff. Stuff. Stuff. Drat. And not only that but the other 2 sales coordinators were out – so it was me covering! Drat. Double Drat!
Okay party…so after pulling reports and compiling them, and printing them. I was onto the stuff. I had this huge repeat after me H U G E project for Doug that needed to be created, approved and then made, 150 table tents…printed, cut, folded, scored, assembled with a penny to balance it – time…effort….work….so I got the mock up done by about 5pm..and the person was gone. SO I couldn’t get it approved. UGH….so I waited, and on Friday….that person didn’t show up in the office til after 12…What the??? I showed it to her…she approved it….and then I started working on it. And then…(insert dramatic music here)

The Office CLOSED EARLY – 1 PM. EARLY..

And I was STILL WORKING – it was only 12:30 people.

DOUBLE DRAT!!!

I finished the project at 5:15….packed up all the table tents labeled them and placed them in the mailroom to be picked up on Sunday for the promotion on NYE. Then I headed home.

Traffic sucked, and I met Pops to go for a walk. Did only a couple laps around the track was feeling pretty icky…and was pissed…not the best time for me to walk. UGH. I suck!

Accomplishments

Today is test result day. I am soooo very nervous. So nervous. I don’t want to disappoint myself or even more so MM. I know I can’t control my blood sugar. But man oh man….I want it to be the same or lower. Oh please oh please…sweet baby jesus…let it be a pinch lower.

I walked into the doctors office, checked in, my nervous were gonna crazy I tell ya. What the??? Okay….time to weigh in. Big breath….remember to breathe. WOWZA…down a total of 35 lbs. 30 of it since the Jazz Fest….yippee….Everything else was good too…and then….the Blood Sugar Results…..down from a 6.1 (normal person) to a 5.9!!! A 5 point freakin 9! Wahoo!

When I was done, I called MM…he was soooo sleepy. But happy. I talked to Becks and Ultimate and then headed to get a treat for me….my weekly latte! Yeah me! – I also bought MM a 6-pack of his favorite Winterale brew…I then headed to work.
After work I headed to do my workout with MM…and low and behold….he had me hold a 35lbs weight. What the??? Anyways….I feel like I’ve accomplished something…and I need to keep going….but today – Thursday – Dec 28th – A freakin Fantastic day!

LIVE LOVE LAUGH OFTEN

I just love being an auntie! So I’d indicated in one of my previous posts that I had some cool things happen that deserved their own posts…yes that was where we had left off…so oooh so long ago.

Let’s see…Nephew Day. Wednesday…exactly one week ago – today. WOW, has it really been a week already??? NO comments!!! Lol…okay I dare you to crack about my age…just go ahead…

Okay now to seriousness. My nephews…I got up early on Wednesday morning and proceeded to make lasagna. Yep, early in the am, I was up cooking….wahoo! I rock. I think the last time I made lasagna was when they were here last….almost 3 years ago…I made a few lower calorie choices, I used turkey meat instead of hamburger, and cottage cheese instead of ricotta….and wheat noodles….I made a HUGE pan…and got it all layered up and ready to go into the oven.

I cleaned up the kitchen a bit, and then headed to clean up and take a shower and get ready to head up to the “rents” where my bro, sil and nephews were. It seemed to take 3 years to get there….and when I got there….I barely made it inside…when I was totally hugged by my LP. He just hugged and hugged and kissed and hugged me….it was soo good to see them. MAN oh Man how they have grown up!!!

We all got inside and had a great ketchup (lol) conversation….and then it was time to head to Chang’s Mongolian Grill. The boys just love that place and everytime they come to town…that is where we go.

So we all piled into 2 cars, I got the boys and br my sil went with the “rents” – we got to Chang’s and headed inside. We grabbed a place to sit and then headed to load our bowls up with all the goodies. The boys were crackin’ me up…they put a ton of Sherry in their bowls for flammage…those boys…lol….we had such a great time…lots of laughs…fun fun fun. After to boys finished 2 full plates, and ice cream, we headed back to the rents. We talked some more, LP and I played swipe…and had lots of laughs…then my pops brought out the olde rubix cube. Remember that??? LOL!

On a side note, I gave my brother b a Mountain tee shirt, and a few bottles of Jolly Rodger Christmas Ale….bonus points as the kewlst sister were scored…lol…hush now, I know I’m the only sister…but still!!!
Anyways, WE had a fantastic visit. I just love those boys! They ROCK. They are so creative. They are happy. They are life.

Somethings are better left unsaid...

I recieved this very beautiful arrangement of flowers from someone (lets call him frank) in my past. Now this person and I used to be involved way back when I worked at KISS. We had our good times and bad times....and finally it was over...and then I moved over here to Sandusky land.

When I started at Sandusky, I met Jim. And that was that til 3 years ago - and that is a whole nother blog waiting to happen...lol....let's focus please...lol...so 3 years ago when I was in the hospital and near death, I called a few people to say goodbye too...and I called frank to say what apparently I needed to say...to set the peace in my heart..and we talked and were most friendly. SO on and off and on...we have talked - I can honestly say we have remained friends. Well, since then I have been involved or he was...and when I finally had the guts to say hey lets try this again, he had gotten married. SO I never told him. Well most recently, the last several months we have started talking again.

Bad Chan, bad chan - just for good measure. So we've been talking - "V" has been out of town. NO I haven't seen him. Not that I haven't wanted to. And he has wanted to also. But he's married, and I told him I wouldn't even think about it until he was divorced. He's not really happy...etc etc etc. Well our conversations have got a little sauzy lately. Nothing bad, just harmless flirting....but I have to admit that if "V" wasn't in the picture and Frank was single, I am sure we would have gotten together for at least coffee by this time....to see if the sparks are still there or not...lol....anyways....Frank has been very down, and our conversations have really cheered him up....apparently I am good for sumething!!! Anyways, he sent me this lovely flower arrangement for Christmas...and I feel bad, bad that I enjoy talking to him, bad that it might be hurting his wife, I've told "V" - and "V" actually knows him....and thinks its good that we have become friends again....what the??? lol...but what is a girl to do???

What it's been a week already?

WOW....go figure, its been a week since I last blogged. WOW....where did the time go??

Some very cool things have happened this week, so I'll post those seperate because well, they deserve it.

Sunday Christmas eve - what a day. Got up and headed to church, and then up to make dinner an early dinner at that for the rents.

I made a seafood pesto pasta, with lobster, scallops and prawns - freaking awesome! We had a very nice relaxing early dinner and then I headed out to go to the candle light service at church. Amazing. Beautiful. Tears flowed.

I headed home and met back up with "V". We spent a very nice relaxing evening opening a few presents and discussed our future or lack there of. We finally drifted off to sleep.

Got up late Christmas morning, and opened gifts from people at the office....and then took "V" to the ferry to go see his mom an step brothers and sisters. I headed up to the "rents". Had a good time up at the "rents" opened presents, had a nice dinner then headed back, picked up "V" and headed home. We had a relaxing evening and watched a movie and fell off to sleep.

We got up on Tuesday and continued our talk about our future. "V" feels very threatened about my "new" life. How I've changed...he doesn't feel he fits into that mold of my life. I told him I am the same person, just healthier, he feels very aware of what he is doing and is wondering what I think when he does what he does...like when he got smokin petes bbq and i had a subway wrap, little simple things like that. I told him it will all work out. He's not so convinced....we'll see. I'm sad and frustrated, I need my best friend and he's so worried about us. It rained all day, and then it was time to get ready. Ready for "V" to go to the airport and for me to get ready for my work out with MM. We headed to the car, and made a quick stop at the Jolly Rodger Bar to get a few beers for my brother. Said goodbye...and then headed to workout with MM.

Had a great workout....Ultimate trainer was there...it was good to see and chat with him. When I got home, I really missed "V". I hope we can get thru his issues, I hope I can stay true to me and not "go" back...I've worked too hard to get here. Anyways....I headed off to sleep...the boys yes my nephews....would be at the "rents" in the morning.

All comfy and cozy

It's Saturday night. I am curled up in my new pjs and robe. Sweet. "V" is here. Its good to be curled up with him. It's like he never left. But he did...he's back for a few days...and then will be gone. Gone for how long?? I wish I knew. Right now, he doesn't even know. He thought he would be coming home for good in April, but now, he's not talking about it. GO figure.

I was busy today. I actually slept in, got up, made breakfast, enjoyed that with "V" and then we headed out. He hooked up with the guys and I headed out to the wifely chores. "what the?" I go the car washed, got gas for the car, headed to pick up stuff for dinner with the "rents" on Sunday and then headed to go for a walk with pops. It was really cold and I was having a hard time breathing....bad air quality. I felt like I needed my inhaler. Crap! Oh well, we did a couple of laps...better than none. I then headed to FM to get the very last gift for my parents. Tee hee...I bought them each a garden knome. What is so cute about them....is that the are a girl and boy with gords for hats....I'll take pics and post later....

I then headed to pick up "V" and we went to have dinner a very low key informal just hang out and talk dinner....then back home....

more later....

The weather outside is FRIGHTFUL

Yes I know its been over a week since I have posted. Bad Chan, Bad Chan. SO much too tell. Perhaps a short list will do.

We had a major windstorm. Lots of people lost power. I did not. Lucky me.
Did some Christmas shopping. No wrapping yet. Boo hiss.
Went to church on Sunday. Beautiful service.
Went to R&J's for a holiday party and bday party for the kiddlets...fun times.
Monday - Back at work. boo hiss...lol!
Tuesday...work out....rocked it hard core! Yeah me!
Wednesday busy day at work....and our rescheduled holiday party! AND...
MEME is here. Went to the airport to get her...another crazy delated flight...but she is here! YEAH!
Thursday. Blood test day. UGH. Was pretty weak afterwards. But I did it...NOW just to wait for the results next Thursday. Had my work out...gave MM his present...he LOVED IT...YEAH ME! Went to go get "V". YEAH "V"!
Friday. Day off...YEAH me...had a workout with GIP. Brian the Ultimate was there. Good workout...and then MM showed up....yeah me....I felt sooo special....they all were there....Merry Christmas to me!!! Those peeps are so special....it means so much to me that they care! I stopped at the office....and low and behold a surprise....a bouqet of flowers for me....I'll post a pic later. Walked with Pops at the track...rocked it! Did a bit more shopping....not to crazy out there...yeah...and then dinner with "V".
Saturday...slept in....more to come....

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Its all about the BACON

Wow...Wednesday - Hump Day! YEAH!...I was excited. I woke up knowing today I would register for some classes at CK in PDX. And today...was Breakfast day at the office...part of our week long celebration! Sweet!

Got in, started doing all that fun "work" stuff...and then it was time. I logged on and registered for classes....and the best part - I got the 3 I really wanted!!!! YEAH!

Then it was time for a little breakfast celebration!!! YEAH!!! There was BACON...really it's all about the BACON. There were lots of yummy quiches and fritattas and lots of other yummy things I'm not to have or even look at...snort...and there was fresh fruit! YEAH!

SO I grabbed a piece of quiche, some fruit and some BACON..duh...and headed back to my desk....I of course didn't eat the crust...yeah me...but everything was yummy!

Anyways....I did a little chat with the famous ms. donna downey...which was way coool...and then I headed home.

Had a pretty funky evening...but I'll get over...thru it...anyways...I've got a workout scheduled with GIP on Thurs as MM is out for the Hawks game...he sux...but not really.

I got lots of goodies today in the mail....MeMe's gift finally arrived and I had Santa's helpers wrap it for me at the office...and Cyn's also came....and my tees arrived...yeah! Too big but oh well, when they are washed, they will shrink. One is for working out in anyways...

YEAH DAY 1 REGISTRATION FOR SCHOOL

I was sooo excited this morning. I was gonna be able to register for my advanced jewelry class today.

On the way to work, I called and talked to a friend whom I haven't talked to in like foreverh...a mad scientist related person....it was good to hear their voice and catch up a bit.

I got into work and realized the "JOKE" that I left on a stocking - the stocking was gone. Okay this is not good. NOTE: When playing reindeer games...becareful. I upset this person. I did not mean to. This is what I did. I took a stocking that had a name of a person who is NO longer here...and took the gold glitter and put an "X" thru it. Then I proceeded to write in the gold glitter the person's name that didn't have a stocking...pretty fun...considering the guy is always laughing joking etc. AND last year he put up a sweatsock with his name on it....I thought he would laugh.

OKAY NOT SO MUCH.

SO I put up the funny stocking on Monday night....it was gone on Tuesday...BUT I really had made him a regular new one on Monday night and was gonna replace it. Anyways....I was forgiven. UGH....come on people have a bit of holiday humor.

Anyways....

THE BEST NEWS:

I actually got thru and was able to register for my advanced jewelry class with LNK...YEAH..The picture above shows what the class is...I will be making the pendant part of the necklace...I am sooo excited...and it is sooo out of the box for me and I'm ready for it!

Anyways...rest of the day...was busy crazy...I was totally beat by the time I got to see MM...we had a good workout even tho I was tired...and then I headed home....

Mondane Monday

Monday...what the heck happened??? Oh let's see.

I carpooled to work with "B"
Traffic sucked
Got to work
FREE LATTE DAY AT WORK
Long day couldn't wait til it ended
Gave my person their Secret Santa Gift
Hung the stockings at work (made a funny on one of them as a joke - people it was a joke)
Got a Secret Santa Gift
Left work
Traffic REALLY SUCKED
Beat "B" on the carpool game "What time do you think we'll get home" I was only off 1 minute...I rock...ugh I wish I would have lost!
Made dinner
Did a few things round the apartment
Hit the RB for my work out....
Went to bed

Pretty boring weekend....

So Saturday wasn't too eventful....I seemed to be fighting a cold that everyone at work seems to have. Felt pretty crappy....but took it easy...seem to have passed on the cold...so that's good.

Sunday...

Got up, headed to church....was a beautiful service....we sang some Christmas songs...now who would have thought that there were extended versions of these...lol...

I headed to Sam's club to pick up a few things...and it just dumped when I got out of there...eeks...headed to Office depot to pick up some envelopes for the office for our Christmas cards that I'm gonna print...eeks....and then headed home.

Got home, realized I was a bit cold...so I curled up to take a nap....lol...feel asleep and then had to rush to get up to get to the "rents"...traffic was bad...so I didn't call MeMe...as I needed to give full attention to the road...sorry MeMe....ugh I suck!!! I'll give you a call tonight after "B" drops me off...

Got to the "rents" had a good visit...dinner was good...but the best thing was...pops gave me a cartoon....basically it had two guys playing basketball in the background...and two guys sitting on the bleachers...one guy said to the other "I think my energy drink is disagreeing with my power bar" SNORT. Ha ha too funny.

And for a side note....the flamingo is still dawning its rain slicker....hopefully the santa outfit will make an appearance now that pops has all the lights up.

SO here's to a good Monday....

Hummmm

You Are Diet Coke

You are energy in its purest form. No need to complicate things with sweetness.And while people may hate your aftertaste, you are seen as a necessary evil. Your best soda match: 7 Up Stay away from: Coke

What Kind of Soda Are You?

My happiness for Friday...

Okay I have 2 actually....maybe more....lol

The first....my buddy (you know who you are) is emailing me each day with a happiness. I am soo proud...it's a tough thing to do....but when the cards and chips are down....sometimes a little reminder can make the difference....

Let's see..."B" and I carpooled....and went to Starbucks....I didn't have a latte...I had unsweetened ice tea...yeah me....and I didn't miss the latte!!!

I got paper and stamping goodies from The Angel Company...yeah....fun fun fun....

I had a good day at work....

oh I almost forgot...lol...not really....I walked around the track 4 times....yep 4 times....yeah 4 times tee hee...with pops. I walked 4 times around the track...nenner neenner neener....lol...

I am sooooo happy about it...after, I called momma to tell her.....and I can't wait to email MM...wahooo.....hopefully the rain will stop...cuz we are gonna walk tonight (Sat).

Anyways...time to get the day rocking!

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Diva Night...

Finished the day at work and got ready for MM. I drank 1/2 of a protein shake...check...and drove down. Got there, hit the RB...and then...

MM time! We worked hard...we talked about what happened on Tuesday...and everything...perfect. I nailed everything. WAHOO! YEAH ME!!!

At the end - I drank the other half of the shake then headed to the RB...what the?? The NEW girl was hogging it. UGH....the one thing I just love about everyone else...they know that I'm an RB girl...they know that I'm not ready for the other stuff...if they are on the RB...they move. They all ROCK...NEW GIRL...NOT SO MUCH....but I have to give her the benefit one time...man one time...one ticket. SO I tried to do the Elipa-freak machine...ugh....didn't quite get it. MM was proud of me for trying it....we'll work on it on Tuesday...he told me to go home and work on the RB there.

I could totally tell the protein helped...I felt good I felt like I had worked out....but good.

I headed to the office to check on my ebay item for MM for christmas.....I won YEAH....I'll have to post a picture when I get it. Then off to see DIVA!!!

I stopped at Subway and got our normal and then headed over....Both Ugly Betty and Grey's were reruns...but we chatted and caught up...fun times....then it was...

time to head home. I got home...around 11 and hit the RB for a bit....and then off to dream land...

"V" rocks! Yes He DOES!

MY dear sweet BF sent me this wonderful present today. It is a pair of pewter dragonfly napkin holders made by the Tin Woodsman, to go along with my Bordallo Pinheiro Majolica Dragonfly dishes!

When he came home, he brought me a dragonfly large spoon from the Tin Woodsman with a hook for the kitchen wall. Last week, he sent me a coffe canister with a pewter dragonfly lid and dragonfly spoon.

BOY DOES HE ROCK....can't wait to see what's next!

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THWAK....That's gonna leave a mark for sure!

Tuesday....MM day...YEAH!

Got to work...and had a great day. I worked on Yamadasan's bracelet that I have had for way too long and finally fixed it...YEAH ME...and besides beading during work...sweet!

Anyways....back to the good stuff....

I am gonna take a few classes this next year...but the sign ups are NEXT WEEK...what the??? LOL...anyways....one is an ADVANCED wire working class in Feb. with my FAV instructor Lisa Niven Kelly! YEAH!!! and I'm gonna go to Portland for the CK Convention....and take a few okay 4 altered art classes....yeah....SO WISH ME LUCK that I get in and get all the classes I want...as there are only soooo many seats!

So I headed down to good ole FT and hit the RB for a little warm up....and then it was time...MM and I rocked it....what a great workout....I've really stepped it up the last two weeks...and he was almost beeming at my progress....as I was so trying to catch my breathe...lol...anyways....it happened.

I hit the wall after my work out....pretty scary. NO fuel left to operate my depeleted body. The banana only helped my blood sugar...glad I thought of that...cuz that would have been Thwak, passout and that really did leave a mark time...ugh....I just realized that I need to change my emergency contact info on my Medic Alert - ugh...Michael and Brian are still on there....gosh I miss them. I hate that Michael is made at me and that Brian...well Brian is Brian...a badd badd badd man...I miss him so much....I was thinking of him the other day and started to cry. I wonder if he'll show up like he promised on the 21st. He did last year...gosh I hope...BUT I know that I am sooo much stronger this year than the last 2 - especially the last year...sorry sidetracked.d...okay back to the dealio...

SO after emailing GIP and MM, I heard back from GIP (Girl In Pants formally known as Not So Scary Josh) and he suggested a protein drink prior and after working out....so that's what will happen for Thurs...now just to hear back from MM....I am sure he will think the same...but heck, one never knows....anyways....off to Super Supplements for a little protein!

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A challenge of sorts....card style

So I joined a quickie swap on my Angel Stamp group...and we are to send one card per week for the next 3 weeks to the person who signed up "below" us. OH great...I got Momma...SO that means I have to come up with 3 new cards that she doesn't have...ARGH!!!...SO...
this is what I came up with...I'm gonna try and use black and white ginham ribbon on each one to prove a point to her...that it goes with everything. Enjoy! More to come!

Things done and heard on a day off...

UGH...Saturday got here too early...got up, got ready and then grabbed the rent checks and headed out to see MM.

Got into the car and headed out....the sun was out and I was in a sassy mood and ready to bring it...lol....headed down and called Momma to see how she was doing...and just a bit of general chit chat...called my pops to see if we were on for tonight and then I got at FT....headed inside and someone was already on the RB...so I decided to walk back and forth til MM was ready for me...

He saw what I was doing and was glad that I was warming up...lol I told him it was the poor man's version of an RB...laughing ensued.

We got down to business and man oh man...did MM work me...but I love it!!! He totally challenges me...and I know that I am getting stronger and better each session. I am really trying to kick it up an notch all the way around. We were talking and I mentioned to MM that Josh told me that Becks got into a wreck...he said Josh told me that too....I replied...so basically Josh is a gossip. MM smiled. Then he told me that Josh watches soap operas...I said No way...MM said yep....I replied....so basically Josh is really a girl in pants....MM lost it...so that's Josh's new nick name...girl in pants....lol...he is soooo gonna kick me when I train with him in a couple of weeks....but man o man girl in pants...FUN - NEY!

After my workout...i hit the RB again....and did another 20 minutes...on an incline....did a half mile again...yeah me!!! And then....time to hit the road.

I called DIVA to see how she was doing....and then off to Michael's and Joanne's...to do a little bit of shopping. Got some cool stuff...and then headed to get something to eat.

I then headed towards home....and decided to get my hair cut....Great Clips....here we go again...the FT hairstyle...good but cheap...then I headed to Walgreen's to get a few things...then up to see pops. He was busy as usual, so I left and then headed home....snuggled in made some dinner....got a call from "V" and chatted for a while...watched a movie....then time for bed...hopefully Sunday will bring more fun and adventure....

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"Poolin time....don't forget the latte"

Friday. Oh my favorite day. Latte day. Yummo! I woke up feeling pretty good after my intense workout on Thursday night. Got ready and then realized that I was poolin with "B"...eeks...needed about 5 more minutes....I ran downstairs and he was waiting....well he can wait for me once in a while...I think he owes me about 29 more wait times...lol!

It was raining...and I hopped into the car...and we headed down the road....we stopped at Starbucks for the Friday treat....LATTE...yeah....I tasted soooo good. I kept the receipt to put into my book...finally made it to work....and let the games begin!

Had a pretty normal day...a few rush projects...done. Talked to MeMe...yeah MeMe....(hope the party was fun - and YOU could NEVER be one of those girls lol).

I ordered a few things from the Angel Company...a few things for me...and a few things for presents for a couple of gals at work. Tee hee...lol....yeah bring on the paper.

I had signed up for a couple of classes on Big Picture Scrapbooking and they both started today...so I went to the site and downloaded the info...and printed it. I was really impressed with the materials so far...and the price....smokin!

The day finally ended....and off to the car with "B" eeks...it was Friday Night HOT Clips...lol...what a crazy ride home....got home and hit RB for a bit of fun...lol...and then made some dinner and "chatted" on line with some friends from the past. It was good to catch up...and then "V" called.

It was good to talk with him...gosh I miss him...but it is what it is...and time will tell where is relationship will go...all I know is that I have to focus on what's best for me. I can't let myself fall into the trap I did with the mad scientist. Its scary when I realize how I let him effect me...and the results of that...I didnt care anymore and I really didn't want to go on....what a mistake that was....BUT I am better to have gone through it...and I'm stronger now...then I ever was or thought I was then. YEAH ME! LOL....there's nothing wrong with a little self back patting...anyways....back to reality now...lol...anyways....that was about the extent of my exciting Friday night...lol

I SO ROCK!

*Snort*

So here's a picture of MM with his A GAME Face on!

SO I have a work out scheduled - and it's been since Saturday since MM and I did our thang. UGH...its gonna be a tough one...but I'm in it to win it or own it...lol.

Had a pretty good day at work....got a few things done...and then headed down to see MM.

We had a little chit chat....got a few things well settled...and he wants me to step it up a bit on the RB not only at home but at FT after my workouts... SO challenge excepted.

MY workout was intense...I worked hard and did awesome...and then....time to hit RB before heading home. I so totally rocked it....did a 1/2 mile AFTER my workout and then I headed to Costco to get some SBD Cereal bars. I ended up walking all of Costco before checking out...and then I headed home.....managed to get all my stuff upstairs in one trip...and then settled down for a bit of Grey's Anatomy!

Had an interesting phone call and settled into a deep sleep.

Its all about the 3 T's

That would be

TIME
TREASURES
TALENTS

and I got all 3 - lol

It's nice to be able to share for a good cause. Today, I donated a huge basket full of stamps, a pack of paper and a new catalog for the women's auction at SCC - and I even donated a 3 pc jewelry set! YEAH ME!

I just love the gals at SCC and am so glad I am able to help out. I am really looking forward to my next Scrappin' Friendz in March....and I will be teaching card making!!! YEAH ME!!!

Anyways....made it thru all the snow and ice this week...very glad about it. On Wed night it snowed about 3 - 4 inches in the banana belt...but nicely melted by the AM.

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