New Year...

A New Year deserves a new look. I have changed the blog look just a bit, nothing drastic just a spruce up. I hope everyone enjoys New Years Eve and has a wonderful 2008. Drink, be merry, but don't do this and get behind the wheel kids, it's just not a good idea. I may have grand stories to tell in the new year, but don't hold your breath. You might turn blue or purple before the stories actually make it to the blog.

I'll see you January 2.

Christmas...

I feel this picture sums up the Christmas holiday, let's move on to the new year.

My Interview with a Rock Star…

I had a written interview with a Rock Star, well he is as close to a Rock Star that I’ll ever likely meet. The written interview is as follows. (Oh it had to be written, because he does lead the Rock Star life and was extremely busy, but was able to email answers to questions in between Rock Star like stuff.)

Name?
Brian Kerr
(Have you ever meet him? Supper nice guy!)

Where were you born?
In a hospital, I think. I can't remember.
(I was really looking for a more specific location. He does have an accent, by the way.)

What instrument(s) do you play?
kazoo, slide whistle, guitar, bass, mandolin and assorted other junk.
(Wow!)

What band(s) are your currently part of & where do you tend have gigs at?
I usually have a few projects going but Six Pack Theory (myspace.com/6pt) is my main band. We are playing all over town, Abobe Gilas... the other Adobe Gilas, you know, everywhere.
I just started with an Irish punk band, it's sounding good and will be a lot of fun, nothing booked yet.
(Irish Punk—this is news. I love every thing Irish.)

What if your favorite genre of music?
I don't know that I have a favorite genre. I'm a big fan of Beck and Bjork because they don't stick to one genre.
( hummmm)

If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?
Hmm. I don't know much about trees, according to http://www.paradiseawaits.com/Tree.html I'm an elm. Who knew?
(I had to ask this question. It’s my go to question, when I don’t know what else to ask. I was asked this question in a job interview once and I didn’t have an answer, maybe that’s why I didn’t get the job. According to this site, I’m a “Cedar, The Confidence Of rare beauty, knows how to adapt, likes luxury, of good health, not in the least shy, tends to look down on others, self-confident, determined, impatient, wants to impress others, many talents, industrious, healthy optimism, waiting for the one true love, able to make quick decisions.” I always thought I was a Weeping Willow—I love them you know.)

Have you played with any famous bands or people?
None that anyone would know. I did see one of the Oasis guys in a train station once. I didn't want to go to jail for manslaughter so I ignored his request to teach him how to play and start a new band.
(Hey, what about the Waterboys? I love that band—well the Fisherman’s Blues song.)

What is currently your favorite song/musician?
I've had Funky in the Middle by Nickodemus in a loop in my head for about a week or so now. Great track.
The Lab Rats (local guys) are amazing.
I just discovered Laura Veirs. Her lyrics are kinda strange and I like that she's trying to express herself in a unique way.
I saw KT Tunstall doing some solo live stuff and was very impressed by her. I like people that have some talent outside the studio. It's easy to make anyone sound good with enough studio time, live is where the cracks show.
(hummmmm)

What song do you get really annoyed by when your audience requests it?
I don't get annoyed at any single request. The most requested song is Free Bird but I doubt the requester really wants to hear it. I think they just want to be involved in 'the magic'. I do get the occasional inebriated patron that asks for a band/song that I don't know and keeps asking all night even after being told I don't know it. "Keep asking, maybe I'll know it by the second set".
(I actually like Free Bird, even the really long version.)

If you could play at any venue in the world, where would your dream venue be?
Ooooh, that's a tough one. I'd rather play at an event than a specific venue. If I could have played at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert at Wembley, that would have been cool, or the Enchantment Under The Sea dance at Hill Valley High in November of 55.
Peter Gabriel did a show at the Acropolis in Athens, I guess that would be cool.
(Athens would be cool.)

Have you learned to play “Fields Of Athen Rye” yet?
Um, yes, twice. Sling me an MP3 of it and I'll see if I can stick it in the new years set.
(I don’t know how to sling an MP3. Anybody who knows how let me know asap. I LOVE this song. It is a pretty slow sappy one for New Years, but I love this song. I almost positive I'm going to go see Six Pack Theory for New Years, anyone interested in going, let me know.)

Thanks Brian for taking time out of your Rock Star life to entertain me and my loyal followers. Wow, that almost sounded like a cult. No cult, promise-only really awesome friends-who are REALLY bored. :)

Please note, I will be off the blog, but on the wine, until Dec. 27. I will be spending an extreme about of time with my family and as you may remember they function in the world of dial up.

Enjoy your holidays!!!

Bonus Entry-2 in one day, who can stand it…

10 Random Things About Me…

Because it’s all about me, isn’t it?

1. I hate snakes. I don’t even like to see them in photographs or on tv. ICKS!

2. I love coffee. My coffee preference depends on where I’m at. Staufs—Highlander Grogg; Caribou—skim mocha no whip; Starbucks (bottom of the choices)—skim white chocolate mocha, no whip, iced; Panara—hazelnut!!!; home---dark roast. Unless my coffee is a fancy coffee, I drink it black. I’m also a big fan of tea and hot cocoa.

3. I love the tv show “Bones”. I really miss the tv show “Alias”.

4. I secretly read Pioneer Woman’s blog daily. I’m fascinated by her ranch life and how she gets 2000 plus comments on one blog entry. I guess that’s not so much a secret any more. Opps.

5. My favorite childhood toys-well that I remember—were Digger the Dog (a small plastic dog that had a string attached to it and you could pull it behind you) and Cindy (a movable version of Barbie, but she had a lovely black horse).

6. I adore accents: Irish, British, Southern, Australian, Canadian…all accents really.

7. I have never eaten sushi and have no desire to.

8. I have a cat named Maggie. Just testing you, you should know that one. But, did you know I once had a bunny rabbit name Abby and a dog named Tiny?

9. I enjoy walking in the rain, not cold freezing rain, but warm spring rain. I love the smell of rain. The smell right before it actually starts raining.

10. I tend to refer to all children as munchkins. This avoids the embarrassment of calling them by the wrong name in front of their parents.

Bonus! I’m all about the bonuses today.

11. I hate green beans. I believe they taste like dirt smell and why eat dirt?

Now, how many of these did you know????

Handy Dandy Answers...

Question 1: You all should have gotten this one correct, I gave the answer to you. :)

Question 2: Dennis Kucinch

Question 3: Mike Huckebee, John McCain, Ron Paul, Fred Thompson, Barak Obama. (Sorry, this one was a bit of a trick one.)

Question 4: Ron Paul

Question 5: Fred Thompson

Question 6: Hillary Rodham Clinton

Question 7: Bill Richardson

Question 8: John McCain

Question 9: Mike Huckebee

Question 10: Bill Richardson

So, how well did you do. Let me know.

Political Science Rears Its Evil Head Again…

I can’t help it really. My undergrad degree was in Poli Sci and I am drawn to the insanity of our American government. I know most are not, so I wanted to make this a bit fun for you. A quiz. YEAH a quiz! Now, by no means am I trying to persuade you toward one candidate or another, I would just love for people to be a bit more educated about the candidates. (Maybe in the future, I’ll do some persuading.) Also the information in this quiz is just random crap I found interesting and by no means indicates if the candidates would be Presidential material.

Get ready… ready? Get a pencil and paper, write down your answers, then tomorrow put in a comment of how many your got correct. It will be fun. It will be damn it, do it!

Ok, here we go…

Question 1: Name at least 2 Republican and 2 Democratic Presidential Candidates? If you can’t do this then I’ll help you because you are really going to struggle with the next ones. The top runners are the only ones to concern yourself with for both the Republican and Democrat sides.

Republicans running for Presidential Candidate: Rudolph Giuliani, Mike Huckabee, Duncan Hunter, John McCain, Ron Paul, Mitt Romney, Tom Tancredo, and Fred Thompson.

Democrats running for Presidential Candidate: Joe Biden, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Chris Dodd, John Edwards, Mike Gravel, Dennis Kucinich, Barack Obama, and Bill Richardson.

Ok, so now that you have the names of the candidates, you will do much better with the following questions.

Question 2: Which candidate is currently an Ohio Congressman? I have to say until I started doing a bit of research I didn’t even know there was an Ohio candidate.

Question 3: Which candidate has an August Birthday? Oh course I find this interesting because my birthday is in August and at one time I thought I should be President. I think it also may have something to do with the “leo” personality.

Question 4: Which candidate is currently a Gynecologist? Yep, I’m not kidding.

Question 5: Which candidate is an actor, most recently on Law & Order? Hint, I wrote about this candidate in a previous blog entry.

Question 6: Which candidate was born in Chicago? Oh how I love the windy city. I really must return for a visit soon. Ms. K-get your floor ready. Heehehee

Question 7: Which candidate has a BA in French and Political Science? Parlez-vous le français?


Question 8: Which candidate was a Prisoner of War for 5 1/2 years? Seriously

Question 9: Which candidate is a Baptist Minister? Yep

Question 10: Which candidate has been nominated 4 times for the Nobel Peace Prize? I’m still researching what the nomination was for.

Ok-keep you answers handy and tomorrow I will reveal the answers. Now didn’t this make your day complete? Hey-it’s a break from the holiday madness, no?

Nollaig Shona Dhuit (NoLik Suna Ditch)…

(Merry Christmas in Gaelic)

How many of you have a holly wreath on your doors? Many do in the spirit of the holiday season. Did you know this tradition started in Ireland? Holly was a plant that was in season during the Christmas season and abundant. This gave those that did not have money a way to decorate their homes for the Christmas holiday. In Ireland all the holiday decorations are traditionally taken down on Little Christmas or Nollaig na mBan, January 6th (the Feast of the Epiphany). It is considered bad luck to them down before this.

May the roof above us never fall in,

and may we friends gathered below never fall out.

Holiday Cards...

The Christmas cards are flying in to my office and my home. I thank each and every person that took the time to mail a card. The ones at home are lining my mantel and look so nice. I was a putz this year and didn't get around to an actual card. However, I wanted everyone to receive this electronic holiday card from me. So, Happy Holidays--enjoy this holiday season with family and friends and remember wine does wonders.

When My Heart Finds Christmas...

I love this CD by Harry Connick, Jr. It's fun holiday music with just a dash of jazz. Who wouldn't love it. I'm listening to his lovely voice right now. I took the day off work to return to the home I grew up in to make holiday cookies with my Mom. Welp, like all best planned events they got changed. This is kinda why I don't really plan, for some it drives them insane, but they love me anyway. I'm currently at the library. I am a "volunteer" today because my Mom end up working and not only working, but working by herself. So, here I am, holding back the lines of eager readers, movie watchers, and music listeners. Ok, there are no lines, it turns out it's crazy slow, but we are waiting on the pony. I know a pony so exciting, I hope he likes carrots. Ok, it's not that kind of pony. The pony is the delivery of items from other libraries that persons from this library requested and items other people requested from this library and are returning them. Once the pony gets here, I'm told there will be lots to do. I'm also sure once the school lets out there will be a batch of munchkins about.

Enjoy your Friday kids and hope that I get some holiday cookies later this evening. My arse is not nearly as large is it could be, right.

How to Fill a Day of Nothing…

1. Surf web: myspace.com, blogs, craigslist.com, travel sites, etc.
2. Go for a long lunch at a cheap location, i.e. Wendys
3. Email friends with time on their hands
4. Watch a tv show in the computer
5. Do a bit of work
6. Drink cups of coffee
7. Make multiple trips to the ladies room
8. answer random questions

You ask I answer…

1. Why did you name your blog irishprincess?

I love everything Irish and I feel I should be treated as a princess. Hence forth—Irish Princess.

2. What would be your dream vacation?

A dream vacation would be one that never really ends. I would love to marry rich and travel the world. Since I don’t think that will happen any time soon, I would love to spend some time in many places, but shorter trips. Of course I love Ireland and would go there as often as possible. Other places I will make it to someday include: Greece, Italy (the whirlwind was not enough), Germany, New Zealand, Canada, Australia, Spain, and of course the entire US.

3. What will you be drinking on NYE?

Wine or margaritas likely. This will depend on what my plans end up being. I haven’t committed to anything yet, I’m not stressed though, I have a feeling this year will be a quiet New Years.

4. Who is your favorite celebrity hunk?

Will Smith would top the chart, boy does that man have a body on him. Of course there are others for odd reasons: Pierce Bronson, Aidan Quinn, the guy on Bones, Shamar Moore, and others.

5. Will Maggie ever get a sibling?

Maggie will not have a cat sibling. I would someday love to have a golden retriever. Although Maggie will most likely be offended and not speak to me again, if indeed I do get a dog.

More questions...just ask.

Wednesday Trivia...

1. Did you know Jack Daniels was only 9 years old when you began making whiskey?
2. Did you know in WWWII, Mongolia was the last country to entry the war on the side of the Allies?
3. Did you know President Ford gave Nixon a full pardon on September 8, 1974?
4. Did you know Akron, Ohio is nicknamed the "Rubber Capital of the World, due to B.F. Goodrich opening a rubber company in the city in 1869?
5. Did you know Central Park in New York is over 800 acres?

Now you do! :)

Reflection & Holiday Fun…

This post is the 100th post of this little blog. Oddly, I have signed in and typed my random thoughts on the world and you have read them 100 times. This makes me want to take a moment to review the past 100 posts and the past year. In the past 100 posts, I have talked about my cat (Maggie), many friends, and family, ranted about random issues as I see them, and posted fun photos. I began regular postings in July of this year. In the past year I have ranted about large bugs, books, festivals, football, the Challenge, trips, birthdays, movies, work, and trivia. I should be super tired. But I’m not, I’m only motivated to continue my rants and enjoy each day posting on this blog—well at least Monday-Friday (a girl does have to have a bit of a life you know). Good things have come out of doing this blog. I have realized I’m not traveling to Europe right now, but I do have a fun time and enjoy the small events that occur in my life. I also have a quick way to recap bits of my life. I now tend to carry a camera around with me everywhere I go, because I’m weird, but also because what I capture may make a good blog posting. So, if you are with me, I’ll continue on this crazy journey of the world According to Alison.

Ok, enough reflection and on to holiday fun. It has become a yearly event, the marrieds and I go out to a nice meal for the Christmas holiday. Last night we celebrated the oncoming insanity at Abuelos Mexican restaurant at Easton. If you have never been and you enjoy Mexican food, you are truly missing out. I enjoyed the crisp, thin chips to begin my meal and moved into chicken fajitas. Oh, it makes my mouth water as I think about them. The chicken is marinated in some kind of wonderful and then served steaming hot on top of a pile of caramelized onions and peppers. Oh baby are they delicious.

Often I am asked, who are these marrieds you speak of. I will channel Ms. Jones and try to introduce them with thoughtful details.

Thoughtful details, thoughtful details...ok please allow me to introduce Mr. B. Mr. B is a lovely father of two adorable little girls. (He is holding Munchkin A--7 month old heart breaker.) Mr. B is a graduate of OU and devoted Bobcat fan. He makes the trip every year to the OU homecoming game. He is an intense board game competitor, airplane pilot, and winner of the Challenge. He is also the smart man to married Ms. A. This is Ms. A, married to Mr. B. Ms. A is the wonderful mother of these two Munchkins. Ms. A is a High School Spanish teacher, turned Mom and Pampered Chef guru, turned awesome. She is a phenomenal chef to the delight of all those who have dined at her table. She too is a Bobcat graduate and avid fan. Although she has a strong dislike for OSU, we get along swimmingly. Munchkin I could not resist having her picture taken by her Dad. Munchkin I loves Blues Clues, Elmo, Dora, and long walks on the beach.
Ah, this brings us to couple two of the marrieds. Mr. A and Ms. A. Have you noticed there are a lot of "A's" in my life? Both Mr. A and Ms. A are graduates of Urbana High School, yikes, these Urbana-ites are taking over the world.

Mr. A is the biggest Cubs fan that I know. He travels to as many games a year as possible and like all Cubs fans sincerely believes they will make it to the World Series and suffers a day of depression every year when the reality that this is dream is not going to come true yet again. He is currently returning to college to pursue a degree in the medical field: nursing, sonography, radiography-he's still exploring his options. He also knows so much random music and movie trivia it's scary.

Ms. A is a High School French teacher. She has lived and traveled to France so many times I have lost count. This smart woman even found a graduate program where she studied two summers in Nice. I believe last year she took a class in wine tasting--now come on, they are going to give her a Masters degree for this? Ms. A took a blow the heart when Alias was cancelled and Vaughn now longer graced her television screen for a hour every week. She has recovered, I think, but only because she now has the DVD's to view at her leisure. Don't worry Mr. A knew of this connection she had with Vaughn. Who do you think got the show cancelled?

Well these are the marrieds. Love them to bits.

Monday Madness…

Ok, so there’s really nothing mad about today, but it kept you reading didn’t it. I had a typical weekend, no new exciting news to report, so I’m just going to share a few photos.

Oh and for those of you interested, the picture of the turkey was just a random photo I put up. It was a gift from my aunt and I put it up in my office, because one of my co-workers said my office was sterile. I “won” a Santa beard circa 1975 in the department white elephant gift. The entire process was very bizarre. I donated the beard to the department for future decorations. I’m not sure if it was used or not, but I wasn’t feeling it.

Oh and by the way. I learned today, the post office has international flat rate boxes. You can ship whatever fits in the box, no matter what the weight for one price. I believe the postman said it was $36 or $38. I don’t remember for sure. I have used the domestic flat rate boxes a lot, but didn’t even know about the international ones. Goes to show, I learn something new everyday. Now, if only I didn’t forget 5 things everyday, I’d be amazing.

Ok-prep for random photos...

My office is located in this building--taken last Friday while the snow was still on the ground.
I really wanted to take a moment and ponder the worlds problems,

but I wasn't up for a damp seat.
I think if this shrub were to come alive it could make a really interesting sci-fi movie.
My new desktop--I got a complement on it this morning from a student. I didn't tell him I took the photo, I didn't want to appear too self absorbed. However, I did consider giving him this blog address, but in the end decided it was not in my best interest, again, I might appear too self absorbed. heehee
Photo of the 2nd scarf I made. It was knitted last year, but didn't get the fringe on it until a couple of weeks ago. My Aunt P is now the happy(?) new owner of this scarf.

Happy Birthday Aunt P. 5th scarf I have made. A little girl will be getting this in her Christmas gift tonight, so I felt it was ok to share now. This is the first project I have done using two ball of yarn at the same time. I forgot to take a photo of scarf 3, it went to my Mom for her birthday. Scarf 4 is a holiday gift, so you will have to wait on the photo.

It's Friday...

Itttttttttttttttttt'sssssssssssssssssssssss Frrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrriiiiiiiiddddddddddaaaaaaaayyyyyy!

Chilly Winter Story…

Picture it, Sicily 1945 or Grandview 2007. I woke up at 6:30am stuck one big toe out from under my mound of covers and immediately tugged it back into the warmth. CRAP! It was cold. I drag my sleepy self out of bed and to the hot shower, ah the warmth again. CRAP! I have to get out of the shower; this means warm toes eventually have to hit the icy tile. I quickly dressed in sweats and tiptoed to my car—I’m was oh so clever to go warm up my car while getting ready. I get ready, finally ready to start off into the wild streets of the city to head to campus. Again, I tiptoed to my car make it in safely and it’s even defrosted! I slowed tread down my street to the main one and make it to campus with no stresses. I pulled up to the garage, pull out my handy pass, drove through, parked, grabbed work bag and gift for department holiday party. CRAP! No gift. It was sitting on my couch at home. I had grabbed my work bag, but forgot the gift. What to do?

I pondered this for a moment. I didn’t have a gift for the party. It’s a “white elephant” gift, supposed to be “something from your garage sale that did not sell last year”. I haven’t figured out why even do it, but who am I. I didn’t have anything in my office, no wrapping paper, nothing. I quickly came to the conclusion that I only lived a few minutes away and could run home, grab gift, and rush back. Put car in reverse, back to garage gate, exit and head back to the house.

CRAP! Bus, of course, I get behind a school bus that seems to stop every 2 houses to pick someone one. Although, these kids don’t really look like kids, they look more like adults. Finally the bus pulled onto another street and I saw it was a work program bus, now I understand why they looked like adults-they were. Anyway, I finally made it home, tiptoed into house, grabbed gift, and headed back to car. I started the entire process again.

I finally made it into my office only about 40 minutes late. Good thing most students have finished their finals and I have a very light appointment load today. I also have the gift. Some sorry soul better appreciate the angel candle that has been around most likely since the 1990’s. I did tape an instant lotto ticket to the box, so that might make them a bit happier.

The holidays will soon be here!
I did decorate a bit :)

I hope your morning was just as adventurous as mine! Happy Thursday!

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like...

Snow!!!!!!! It's snowing, well it did last night and today. I'm currently in my office with no windows, so I'm not sure what it's actually doing right now. I love the first snow, even my damp socks.

Snow at 7am in front of my house!

More snow!

Snow in brown tones. I love the brown tones! This is my current desktop.

Snow, snow, snow!

Hey, shouldn't it be a snow day? It was for many, but not our campus.

Snow in front of the Stadium at 12pm today. Shouldn't this be a postcard?

Snow, snow, snow, snow, snow, snow---ah snow!

Yummy for the Tummy...

Thanksgiving has passed and you might be bored of the everyday dinner. This for me is usually a cheese sandwich, bowl of cereal, or other random concoctions put together from the pantry. If you need a break from the norm like me, I highly recommend this side dish.

I don't really work from a recipe, I had something similar at a restaurant once and this is my version.

Pasta Salad

Pasta--I enjoy the shapes, but it's your choice. Cook the pasta add a bit of olive oil and let cool. Too impatient to wait, try putting the pan with the pasta into a larger pan full of ice water. This will help make the process go a bit quicker.

Frozen peas--put into the frig overnight to thaw or run under warm water to thaw.

Cheddar Cheese--buy the ones already cubed or cube your own block of cheese. I like the sharp cheddar it's got a bit more zing.

Sliced Pepperoni

Sliced black olives--optional, this depends on my mood and who might also be eating the dish.

Robusto Italian salad dressing, the Robusto is what gives it it's kick.

Combine all items into a large bowl mix, add dressing to taste and serve.

YUMMMMMMMMMMM! Food photography is tricky, very tricky.

Holiday Hop…

This past weekend was the Holiday Hop in the Short North. The first Saturday of every month the galleries and shops in the Short North stay open late, musicians set up on corners, and folks like me take to the sidewalks. Saturday a group of us did the hop in the cold, crisp winter air. The weather hold out; no rain feel while we were hopping, thank goodness. After the hop we headed to Byrnes to hear the Prodigals and drink a pint or two.

Ms. D, Ms. A, and Ms. T
Me, Ms. A, and Ms. T

We ate dinner at a small hole in the wall diner. I had my doubts, but the food was really good and cheap.

Happy Monday-It's now December you know!

Lights, Lights, LIGHTS!...

Last night, Mirror Lake across from my building was holding a holiday lights ceremony. There were to be refreshments and then the lighting of the holiday lights around the lake. The event was open to students, faculty, and staff. I attend this event with Ms. H and her munchkins. The lights were to go on at 7pm; Ms. H picked me up at 6:45pm with a quick drive to campus we were in the parking garage and walking to the lake by 7pm. The lights were still not on, but we assumed they would be quickly. In almost total darkness we made our way to the stage and waited, and waited, and waited. No lights were going on, my hands were beginning to forget they were connected to my arms and my breath was almost frozen at the same time it escaped my body. Still no lights, the kids were amused dancing to some interesting holiday music. It was just bad, bad I tell you. It was holiday music not Korn or something like that, but really crappy holiday music.

Finally close to 7:40pm, we heard a student announce Dr. Gee is here. Oh, of course, that’s what or better who we were waiting on. A bit of movement in the crowd, candles finally lighting the darkness, Dr. Gee says welcome, basically that’s it and go to the lake to sing “Carmen Ohio” and turn the lights on. The crowd of people walked down to surround the frosty lake. The crowd of about 200 gave the poor ducks in the lake a bit of a fright as they surround the lake with their candles. Many moments later, wind blowing out candles, people re-lighting them, the wind taking control again, people not giving in- lighting again---FINALLY they start singing “Carmen Ohio”. Well-singing is a stretch, I don’t know that many actually knew the words. They needed the football team there to lead or a couple of band members to at least drown out the sad “tune” the group was producing. Lights finally were produced and it was a nice start to the holiday season—but a frozen one, back in car and headed home around 8:15ish.

Dr. Gordon Gee--the Pres himself. He's in the red ball cap in the far back of the picture. I was right next to him, but didn't have the camera out, and then it was so dark, I could not find him in the darkness. The only light was the little set of holiday lights you can see on the left.

No wind, we must have light!

Ms. H and the munchkins

Finally-the lights--ah how pretty--now get inside it's freezing!

Confection=Sweet...

Just like me! Ah come on, you know you love me.

Bored, experiencing PMS, want to do some good today? Visit this site and help feed a few hungry people in the world, http://www.freerice.com/index.php. You play a vocabulary game and if you get a question correct, you feed 20 grains of rice to a hungry person. Now, I'm not sure 20 grains will fill a person up, but if you play a few items and actually get the question correct you might fill up an entire bowl.

According to the site—“FreeRice is not sitting on a pile of rice―you are earning it 20 grains at a time. Here is how it works. When you play the game, advertisements appear on the bottom of your screen. The money generated by these advertisements is then used to buy the rice. So by playing, you generate the money that pays for the rice donated to hungry people.”

Now, what are you waiting for-make yourself a bit smarter and start playing.

Everyone Loves a Potluck...

NO-NO they do not. I'm one of them. Ok-if it's a group of my friends and I know what their kitchens look like--then yes of course-cook for me all you want. I have friends that are wonderful cooks and I LOVE when they make me food. However, work is a big difference. I don't like work potlucks, I don't like them Sam I am. I don't know how these people live. I have never seen their kitchens. I know some of them have pets at home, I have Maggie-granted she's on holiday at my parents right now, but I have her. Let's take a moment to think about Maggie since we don't get to see her every day.

Ah-isn't she just adorable. Now-I love her to bits, but I had to vacuum multiple times a week when she was living with me. I know that when I used my kitchen table I had to scrub it down to make sure there were not Maggie germs on it. What I don't know is if these other people are doing the same things at their houses.

I say--STOP the potlucks at work. I'll give you $5 for these events, have someone bring the food from a state inspected place. My father tells me Kroger's kitchen could be just as gross; yes, yes it could be, but at least a State Inspector does visit and they do get in serious shit if it's not up to code. Who's with me: Hell NO-we will not Potluck, Hell NO-we will not Potluck at work!

Garage Humor...

I parked my car in the garage here at work as I do every morning Monday-Friday. As I was walking to the steps to exit, I noticed a bumper sticker that jumped out at me. "Ticks Suck" I thought to myself-yes, yes they do. Now, to me I would not have this bumper sticker on my car, but hey to each their own.

Note: I have changed a couple of settings and now you can post a comment without being a registered user. I heard from a few of you had have tried in the past but could not post a comment--well now you can. However, be nice. :)

Count down to Christmas 2007... only 28 Days, 11 Hours, 54 Minutes, and 41 Seconds!
Shopping Days Left ...I put up a few decorations. I'll see if I can get a picture to post.

Happy Tuesday!

Hello…

Did you miss me? So sorry for the lack of blog postings, I spent a lovely few days at the parent’s house and although they do have internet it is dial up and it takes 10 minutes to download a page with photos on it. I tried, I really did, but after two attempts and an hour later, I gave up.

I can now report the Challenge winner was Mr. B-loosing a total of 12 pounds. Yeah! Let me know how you want me to get the money to you from everyone.

I can also report, I gained 2 pounds over the weekend thanks to tons of turkey, potatoes, noodles, and awesome pumpkin pie. Seriously, I think it was the best pumpkin pie ever, and so Martha Stewart with little turkey shapes on the top. Oh-if only I could have some now, but no-I must get back on the wagon and continue to try and get into my winter cloths. I would have an entire new wardrobe if I do loose about 10 more pounds.

I ended up going shopping on Thanksgiving-briefly at 7:30am, ick—then again on Black Friday. My sister thinks it’s the best thing since sliced bread, but I tell you, that was my first and last time. The alarm went off at 3am, I was in the first store by 4:45am. People were insane, I was the “defense”, my job was to hold the cart and guard the items my sister was throwing in to the basket. She played “offense”, she bravely (yet, insanely) went deep into the electronics section to retrieve as many deals as possible. There was a line for one store that wrapped around a good half block. The line was in place for a 2 two hours as we trudged from one store to another, trunk filling, the line was still there. Finally, the line was gone, parking was a minimum, but do-able-we braved the store—yet all sales were gone, and the clerk stated to another customer, “We didn’t even have some of the stuff when the store opened”. What! How rude—at least my sister is not as insane to want to stand in line for hours to get a “deal”. I did get a couple of items at a good price, but really, I would rather pay a few dollars more and enjoy my sleep and sanity then shop again on Black Friday. I guess I just not a shopper.

Ok-well, I should get back to work emails and such. Enjoy your Black Monday—now don’t do not too much shopping on the net today on company time.

The Day Before...

I know everyone is waiting to see who won the big prize from the Challenge, but sadly all the Challengers have not reported in yet. Hopefully, they will do so by late this afternoon or first thing tomorrow. I'll be sure to report as soon as I have the info myself. I can tell you it was not me...so sad-bye $20 you are off to a more worthy competitor.

Today is the day before Thanksgiving. I'm sure all of you are off to spend time with family or loved ones weather you want to or not. heehheee.

Did you know that when you Google Thanksgiving you get: Results 1 - 10 of about 83,400,000 for Thanksgiving. Good grief-just think if Internet existed during the first Thanksgiving--they might not have burnt the corn, they could have Goggle'd Martha and gotten a full recipe.

14-3…

I don’t give a damn for the whole state of Michigan, the whole state of Michigan

I don’t give a damn for the whole state of Michigan, ‘cause I’m from OHIO!

Rain, nor drunk fans, nor The Big House itself could deter me from attending the OSU-Michigan game this past Saturday. A three plus hour drive up to Ann Arbor, short 1 hour trip to IKEA, and solid evenings sleep lead to the big morning. Up early to start putting on the many layers, then a short walk to the bus stop, 15 min. bus ride over to the stadium --let the festivities begin. Section 11, Row 86, Seat 1—which in Michigan means you are in the middle of the row not the end—they are odd birds up there. Just down from the scoreboard, directly in line with the “C” on the field in the end zone, sitting in a drizzling rain, I watched the OSU Buckeyes kick some wolverine tail. Enjoy the pics…

Pre-Game warm up
Even Tres has a coat on-it's cold
The band's section
Pre-Game pic--you don't want to see the after one-scary rain soaked
Packed Big House too much maze for my liking-more scarlet please. Although to my amazement-our section got the entire stadium to do O-H-I-O--to was great!

Only one pic of OSU offense needed-they ran the same play all day long
Crazy drunk lady and her damn flag
Michigan fan in front me--although he was sitting MOST of the game :)
Final Score Just in case you didn't know--we are #1--Big Ten Conference WinnersCarmen Ohio--post win

Week 5 Weigh In...

*Me...-1-------Total -5
*Ms. D...-3--Total -8
*Ms. N...0---Total 0
*Ms. M...Not Reported-Total -3
*Mr. B...-3-------Total -7
*Ms. A...-1------Total -3
*Mr. D...0------Total -3
*Ms. B...-2------Total -6

Look at those numbers, some folks are really going to have extra room for Thanksgiving fests. Next Wed. will be the last Challenge weigh in. One hard working trooper will have an extra $140 in their pocket. Who will win...any predictions? I don't see it being me, sadly. I really fell off the wagon yesterday after my frustrating weigh in. I had Chinese, ice cream, a fancy sugary coffee--all kinds of badness. I'm trying to get back on that wagon today. I need to win--it's simply my competitive nature. Hey Challengers...don't those cookies smell good, don't you want to go grab one and have a snack--go ahead, it's ok. (evil laugh--whatever it takes to win!)

Beware…Pissed Off Rant to Follow…

Ok, so I have this little "Challenge" that I created, yes, it’s all my fault because I’m the one that started this entire process. When I stepped on the horrible offending, grey scales this morning my mood was so similar to the color of the offending piece of reporting equipment that I just wanted to spit. Now, I did loose a pound and this now puts me at 5 pounds down from my starting weight, I should be jumping up and down and shouting wouuuuwhooooo, but no I’m pissed. I know the weight is easier to take off then put on. I know that loosing one or two pounds a week is the best way to do it because it is more likely to stay off. I know that small continuous steps will eventually lead me where I want to be. However, I’m STILL PISSED! 5 pounds, where did it come from? Shouldn’t I be able to notice a shrinking chin or two, a little less cheek when I smile? Shouldn’t my cloths fit a little more comfortably? Women often loose weight first in their chest—but no, my girls are still there and STILL the same size. So where, where I ask you the reading audience did these 5 pounds come from, or off of more importantly---my toes, ankles, elbows???? I’ll report the stats from the others as soon as everyone reports in.

Try to enjoy this Wednesday-- I have to go back to work--CRAP!

Random Info Tuesday…

I have deemed today Random information day and since this is my little blog, I can darn well do as I choose, right, right!

Random Thing 1: There are 126 days until St. Patrick’s Day!

Random Thing 2: This is Beat Michigan Week-Go BUCKS!

Random Thing 3: There are 280 calories in a regular size Snickers Bar-eat eat all 280 for lunch today!

Random Thing 4: Every time I try to type Random, I keep adding an “E” at the end—why, hummm???

Random Thing 5: The first cow in America arrived in 1611 to the Jamestown Colonies—can you get more random?

Challenge Weigh In...

*Me...-1-------Total -4
*Ms. D...-3--Total -5
*Ms. N...Gain 1---Total 0
*Ms. M...Not Reported-----Total -3
*Mr. B...Gain 2-------Total -4
*Ms. A...0------Total -2
*Mr. D...-2------Total -3
*Ms. B...-3------Total -4

Feel Better…

My Mom is feeling a bit under the weather today. A touch of the flu or a really bad head cold, either way she sounds like crap. It’s that season all kinds of fun bugs floating around. Hopefully she’s feeling better asap!!!!

Did You Vote Today?

I did vote today and for the past month the signs have been present urging us all to vote for a particular candidate. It amazes me that this is still the main form of campaigning conducted especially in small towns. For my amusement, I took a few photos.

Many simply put their signs along the side of the road for all drivers to view
While others wanted to travel with their signage
One even rented a changeable sign to grab your attention. Now wouldn't it have been funny if the guy with the small blue sign went out and changed the other one. heehee

One wanted to make sure his crafty side was on display
One guy wants to be Twp. Trustee so badly he made a sign almost as large as the county welcome sign

This is not a political sign for this November's voting, but I just had to take a pic---I have to say I was so shocked when I saw this, not because of the statement, but because of where I was---Noble County, Ohio...I'm surprised this guy doesn't have 4 flat tires. But, I say go Brad--well Brad's Dad!

Fun Filled Football Weekend…

Friday night the Johnstown Johnnies, were in the first round of high school football playoffs. The Division 5 team played against Minard (Mayberry, really) in Johnstown and I attended this event because of Ms. A and her rave about the Johnnies marching band. The small high school of Johnstown has around 550 students and over 150 students are in the marching band. Seriously! They are intense about their band. Between the band, the football players, and the cheerleaders, what students are left in the stands, oh yeah the German exchange student?

The band, cheerleaders, and football team
Photos blurred for student's protection--that or my camera was not working well--argh! This was a "dancing" marching band, I had never seen such a thing, it was a bit crazy. I don't think they stopped moving the entire time they were playing--I may have to add this to my weight lose plan.
I mean look at them, they are flexible.

She can play the clarinet and speak French!--Oh and the Johnnies won!

The Ohio State Game was Saturday. OSU played the Wisconsin Badgers. This was the last game I will get to attend this season and it was a good one. I didn’t take very many pictures, so I have few to choose from. There was too much going on, on the field that I had to pay attention. The ticket holders behind me were cracking me up, I believe the direct quote was, “I’ve never been to a game sober, this is fun, this is great. I just didn't get up early enough to start drinking until I got here.” The comment from the lady beside me to follow this statement was, “He has to be single.”

The Badger Himself!
The start of Script Ohio
Dotting the "I" Sorry about the pole, hope for better seats next season.
Boys--get ready to take the field
Nice pass Todd
Returning a punt
The final score--OSU 38-Wisconsin 17---GO BUCKS!
After the game the Wisconsin band took the field-strange, very strange-they were also a "dancing" band, but I have to ask, does the trombone sound better if the person is laying down to play?
The Wisconsin fans were into the band's after-game show--look at them do the Chicken Dance.

The weekend ended with a trip to the Wexner Center to view the William Wegman exhibit. It was ok, not very many of his dog pictures—but it was free. The exhibit continues until Dec. 30 for those interested. (Picture borrowed from website)

And now...It's Monday!