mrs. jack

Me as a Simpson

2006-09-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Make you as a Simpson at this place.

Nice to meat you..

2006-09-07T10:44:00.000-07:00

Freaky. In the clowns are scary sort of way. And what else is frightening is that its only 80% pork. That leaves 20% for who knows what? Tube socks? Horse hooves? Belly lint?

An acre of corn a wee bit of inspiration...

2006-08-31T16:50:00.000-07:00

I just love hearing about stories like this one.

It makes me smile for some many reasons.
1. Because someone who is dead is still remembered and cherished.
2. Because it's Julia Child, who I look up to.
3. It's a freaking corn maze and looks like lots of fun!
4. Because someone thought at one point "How cool would it be to make a corn maze from a picture of Julia Child?"

Things that make me smile today..

2006-08-29T13:09:00.000-07:00

number one and only, originally uploaded by Morran.

Isn't this just the cutest picture? I found out about it about another blog I read everyday, A Bird in the Hand.

And I also found something else that I like. This makes me think of Aluciel a bit. Click here.

Work? Que es?

2006-08-24T16:47:00.000-07:00

Today, I've been working mostly on the guild's website with Squark. It's been nice and rewarding. Mostly because I haven't had to write the code.

/cheers for not being the code monkey

And because he's seemed impressed with my Photoshop skills. It's always nice to be appreciated. During my free time I made this wee lil picture of Josie here.

I wish everday could be Art Day

2006-08-22T15:59:00.000-07:00

When I was in grade school we had days when we went to Music, Art, or P.E. I hated P.E. cause it always just reminded me I was out of shape, overweight, and not coordinated. And music class was okay but the teacher drove me crazy. But I loved Art class. I remember not wanting to put my markers or paints away. Wanting to stay in the Art Room for hours just basking in the skylights and painting. I still feel that way.

So there are times when I lose myself and I just randomly start doodling. I think it's my only way of finding peace. Sort of like meditating just with a more productive outcome. When I'm doing graphic design, not so much. I take my love of art and I force it to be precise and I'm highly judgemental. But when I'm doodling, like I was during my highly important meeting, I don't panic. I know there is always more ink and always more scratch paper.

Something I made today...here.

Out of my mind on Friday; Out of the house on Monday

2006-08-21T16:48:00.000-07:00

After three weeks of feeling funky, I went to the doctor on Friday. Turns out I have a sinus infection. I prefer to say "had" like now that it's diagnosed and I've got antibiotics it's gone. But apparently I have to ingest these drugs in order to evict the infection. But my energy has tripled and I finally feel back to normal. Now to start working out again.

Last night I had a wee panic attack. I'm anxious about having to talk to my mom. My family and I have such a breakable link connecting us that I'm never sure what moves I can make that will break the whole damn thing. I lay in bed last night for 3 hours just thinking about how I could approach this relatively benign conversation about staying at a hotel and taking home some of my things. I stared at the ceiling while I analyzed how she would react and how based on her reaction how my brother would interpret that. Then after 2 hours of endless worry, I realized that I'm screwed either way. I won't say this makes me feel better but at least I know where I stand.

One thing I know about myself that is true. I need to know where I'm stand...even if it's in hell.

I feel sick so I must be in love.

2006-08-17T10:47:00.001-07:00

Another meh day at work. I'm feeling so nasty and bloated. Yeck! But while doing my daily blog surf I found this super cute purse at Outblush.

Sure it's $425 dollars and sure I'd never dream of spending that on a purse. But when has true love ever been financially responsible.

Emailing with Catrena & Aluciel

2006-08-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

After becoming addicted to Veronica Mars, Catrena, Aluciel and I have started joking about the show and the characters. As is the usual case, my joking usually ends up being photoshopped.

See Exhibit A.

See here where Wallace Fennell starts a rap career about living in Chicago. It all started out innocently until the Photoshop came out.

Since I was gone..

2006-08-15T11:37:00.000-07:00

I now spend my days at work, talking to my friends on gmail.
I've finished 5 of the 6 Harry Potter books.
I've become addicted to Veronica Mars. Thanks Catrena & Aluciel.
I've gone on vacation to Pismo Beach.
I've applied for a job and then not been interviewed. (It's okay I decided.)
I've cleaned the house a few times.
The cats have yacked on the carpet more times than I've cleaned the house.
I baked a gallete from my Martha Stewart Baking Handbook.
I've lost 65 pounds.
I've only had a few more zits.
I got my hair all cut off.
And I've started saying Siriusly....a lot.

Picture that I like today.

Fresh Fruit

2006-05-24T16:53:00.000-07:00

It's almost 5 here and yet another day DONE! Another evening at home, getting to do whatever I want! I just now remembered that the Farmer's Market is tonight so husband and I are going to go over and walk around. Maybe pick up some fresh fruit & veggies. I'm getting tired of a bagel for breakfast and want something different.

Also, I'm updating my blog because:
a. I need to.
b. I have no more work to do. Er, well I have no more than I'm doing today.
c. I'm sooo ready to leave and sneak outside into the cool weather and read my magazine instead of sit up in my penthouse office with the muggy hot air! (Why didn't I just OPEN the window instead of sit here, feeling muggy! ARGH!)

Things I like

2006-05-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

I like the pattern for the bedroom.

Sheep and I say BAH!

2006-04-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

What the crap is up with my lack of allergy meds? Seriously! Stupid HMO won't approve the meds the doctor prescribed so now I'm waiting until they bicker it out.
/rolls eyes

Since my allergies have flared up, I've had to cancel walking at lunch which was my major source of exercise. I'm hoping to replace it with swimming but we'll see. I need something that's going to be as aerobic. And I need to start doing weights and that sort of poop. I can't let my allergies knock me off course when I've been so good at exercising so far.

Once again my face is getting a bit oily but only because the timely time of the month is soon upon us. Funny how now that my skin is relatively calmed down my hair is bothering me. I'm tempted to make an appointment and chop it all off. I know I was wanting to grow it out but I forgot how bad it looks when I do.

I suppose there are worse tragedies than lack of allergy meds and wiggedy wack frizzy hair but to a girl, there really isn't. But at least it's almost the weekend. Tonight I get to kick back and do whatever I please. Talk to my friends online and play WoW. And all in T minus 13 minutes. Stupid waiting for 5 o'clock. Seriously BAH!

Paper Dolls

2006-04-24T16:28:00.000-07:00

Find your own pose!

Strange, how such random questions could prove to reveal so very much. Husband and I typically do end up sleeping like this. We start out cuddled together and spoon but by the time we wake up only our fingers or toes are touching.

So this last weekend, was hijacked by allergies. Husband took care of me, while I begged him for spaghetti meal after meal. He'd ask me what I wanted with it and I'd say, "Nothing I just want spaghetti." Then after I'd gobbled down a regular sized portion, I'd tell him I was still hungry. How infuriating! Poor love, I think by Sunday night he was going to pull my hair out.

But I'm back on the job on Monday. I'm taking allergy meds and I've called in asking for a new prescription from my Dr. We'll see if she'll actually prescribe me something without looking me over. I'm not too optimistic but here's hoping.

This is the first weekend, I didn't go to my WW meeting. I was just too sick to get out of bed. And on Sunday, I didn't wash my face. It felt so strange not to wash my face whe I woke up and before I went to bed. Glad to say I got up this morning and promptly washed my face and felt much better.

I'm not sure how long these allergens are going to plague me but I'm hoping they'll be at bay soon. I can't stand not being able to walk at lunch. Yet I dread going outside and coming back feeling sicker than before.

"Oh you're so good..."

2006-04-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

Since I've started dieting I hear that a lot. Which I guess means I'm doing what I'm supposed but sometimes I just don't want to hear it. It makes me feel bad momentarily and pause. I realize they are commending me but it brings me down because it makes me feel like I'm flaunting the fact I'm drinking water instead of something yummy. (note to self: Miss Mt. Dew!) I tend to blow it off as I do most compliments because I'm not doing this to be 'good' I'm doing this because it has to be done. There is no good or bad to it, it's just what it is and I have to get it under control.

Meh, whatever. I'm just going to let it roll off my back and say thanks next time. Not much I can do. I will NOT become one of those "dieting people." I refuse to tout my diet to other people because dieting is poopy and unless you really want to, it's not really worth it. Somehow I think the American Diabetic Association won't be quoting me in their next phamplet. ;)

Happy Birthday!

2006-04-18T16:11:00.000-07:00

Today is my 27th birthday. Unbelievable to me, is the fact that I could be 27! Ever! It never occured to me when I was dreaming of growing up that people go through those 'middle ages'. So since I have no 'planned expectations' for myself, I get to pretty much make it up as I go along, until of course when I'm 30 and I need to have a kid.

Even as a little kid, I knew numbers were important and your age was a defining number in your life. I just never really thought of it defining me in a bad way. I always figured turning another year older was a good sign. A sign that I'd been successful at maintaining my life for a full year so that much like the DMV, God would renew my life and let me try another.

I am damn proud of what I've done with this past year. I grew up a bit this last year and learned to take it easy on myself. I'm still uptight and tend to go to extremes but not quite so often. I've also put value on taking care of myself. Proof being that I've almost lost 20 pounds since January. And I'm back to the same size I was wearing when I was 18. Not that the size I was wearing at 18 is anything to brag about but getting back to it is. I've also started doing more with my time. I've started walking, belly dancing, and learning to speak Italian. I think my new goal is to be a Jack of all Trades. I might not be the best at something but I'll be mediocre and damn near everything.

So, thanks. Thanks for reading, to those who do. Thanks to husband, for giving me a reason to stick around. Thanks to family, for keeping me grounded but reminding me that I need to fly. Thanks to blue sky, for making me smile. Thanks to new friends, for good laughs, camaraderie, love, and /hugs. And thanks to God, if this is my only chance around I hope I'm making you proud of me.

Happy Easter!!

2006-04-14T14:10:00.000-07:00

Just a little something I made for the Spring holiday. Woot for April the 18th almost being here!!

How To Buy Happiness. Cheap.

2006-03-29T10:31:00.000-08:00

Everything I ever wanted to hear!
_________________________________

How To Buy Happiness. Cheap.
Is having lots of bucks not bringing you lots of bliss? Maybe the problem is all in your head

By David Futrelle
October 1, 2004

(MONEY Magazine) – Make love, not money. That was the most unusual message of a research note this summer from stock strategist James Montier at Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein, urging his well-heeled clients to set aside thoughts of stocks for a moment and to focus instead on the things that really make folks happy—namely love, sex, exercise and sleep.

As frivolous as it sounds, this is much better advice than you'll usually hear from Wall Street. For all the energy we spend chasing the green stuff, studies reveal that for most people the old saw is all too true: Money won't buy you happiness.

Sure, in any given country at any given point in time, the rich tend to be a bit happier than the poor. But across-the-board increases in living standards don't seem to make people any happier. Disposable income for the average American has grown about 80% since 1972, but the percentage describing themselves as "very happy" (roughly a third) has barely budged over the years, according to the University of Chicago's National Opinion Research Center.

Why is this? Well, as Cornell University economist Robert Frank notes, we humans are highly adaptable animals, quickly adjusting our expectations to new realities. As living standards increase, most of us respond by raising our own standards. Things that once seemed luxuries now seem necessities. Call it the "once they've seen Paris" effect. As a result, we're working harder than ever to buy stuff that satisfies us less and less.

How to snap this vicious cycle? New research in psychology and economics offers practical suggestions on how to increase your consumer satisfaction—without increasing spending.

• IF YOU CAN'T BE WITH THE STUFF YOU LOVE, LOVE THE STUFF YOU'RE WITH. Research by Robert Emmons, a psychology professor at the University of California at Davis, found that people encouraged to keep "gratitude journals" were far more satisfied with their lives than those who weren't encouraged to accentuate the positive. So don't waste your life fretting over what you ain't got. Give thanks for what you have—it can actually do you good.

• SPEND SELECTIVELY. Splurge only on those things that really bring you lasting pleasure; skimp on the rest. If you're a true-blue cinephile with a DVD collection to rival Roger Ebert's, it might make sense to invest in a plasma TV. But for most of us a cheaper alternative is more than good enough.

• DON'T BUY THINGS, BUY FREEDOM. While people easily adjust to bigger houses and cars, stress is stress no matter how rich or poor you are. As Frank notes, commuting through congestion is miserable for most of us, whether we've been doing it for four months or 40 years, and an assortment of studies shows that commutes (even as short as 15 minutes a day) can have serious and measurable effects on health. (There's a reason bus drivers seem so grumpy all the time.) If you're working endless hours to finance a lifestyle that isn't making you happy, consider cutting back your hours and getting by on less. It may not be easy to do, but in the long run it's likely to make you far happier than a new SUV ever could. —DAVID FUTRELLE

Blog Rule #1: Actually blog from time to time

2006-03-08T15:08:00.000-08:00

Sorry about my lack of posting. I have apparently hit another dry patch. Well to be honest, I've hit an anxiety patch. This past week, I've been anxious about something or another every day. It's tiring and not too fun or interesting. Not to mention, the weather has been quite ho-hum lately with lots of rain and clouds. The rain kept me inside most of this last weekend and the gray sky looks a little to scary. Our IKEA finally opened, and I've yet to go see the new store in all it's grandeur.

1. Clean My Face
First time, I've made it through my monthly flow without a zit. I have noticed lately that I have been going to bed without washing my face. I always catch myself but seems I'm starting to forget. Got to keep up the good work.

3. Lose Weight
I can't believe it but I lost 4 pounds last week! I was completely shocked. I really had figured I'd gain weight because of the flow but nope. I lost and I lost big time! I'm official 12 pounds down! Woot, woot! I also found a new breakfast that I'm really digging: Hummus, baby carrots, cheese, and fruit cup.

5. Start walking
I've kept up on my walking and the 4 pound loss really motivated me! Nothing like a major loss to encourage you to keep exercising. My office workers are talking about getting me to talk at least 4 times a week. EEP! I think I'm going to take it very slowly.

Wha? I have a blog..

2006-03-01T16:02:00.001-08:00

Otherwise Known As.."I completely forgot to post!"

My mind has been elsewhere lately and I'm not all together too certain where elsewhere is. Maybe the weather in elsewhere is nicer than here. Lately it's been rainy and then it gets sunny right at 10 'til noon, so I think about going for a walk at lunch, but then 10 minutes later it's rainy/hailing/nasty. But today was beautiful. A bit cold but nice and I really enjoyed the walk. Note to self: Buy yourself some shoe supports.

1. Clean My Face
Well little more than a month after dedicating myself to washing my face, and I can go without wearing cover up make up. My face isn't perfect, you can still see uneven skin tone, etc. but I'm zit free and happy. This week is my "on the flo" week so I'm keeping an eye out on my skin and dabbing on some extra zit creme during lunch.

3. Lose Weight
Since it is the week of the flo, I'm not sure how I'm going to do at the scales this weekend. Typically I've gained but I've learned a lot this week. You really do have to write down every single thing you eat. I've been flaking on that during this time and the last, so I'm being extra dilligent. I'm hoping to be down 10 pounds by April!

5. Start walking
This week, as I mentioned, the rain has been playing havoc with my schedule. I need to get one more run in this week. I'm hoping tomorrow will be decent.

Returnith - 4. Send Valentines! DONE...kinda!

2006-02-22T16:45:00.000-08:00

I'm back. After far too long away from my blog, I returnith. Returnith isn't a real word but it makes my return seem so much more dramatic, no? Well where was I? I was busy, bust at work. Busy getting together a large meeting and now it's complete. It was a grand success and for that I'm grateful. But I'm enthusiastically charged about the fact it's over and over means I can relax. And relax = good.

1. Clean My Face
Last week all the stress, gave me two large zits. Yuck but they too shall pass thanks to dilligent cleaning. I'm really surprised that I've been able to keep up with this as long as I have. I'm not certain that my face is back to the way I used to remember it but it is undoubtedly better than it was at the beginning of the year.

3. Lose Weight
I've been keeping track of my points on a daily basis. Monday was a bit tough because I'm not at a computer all day thus not likely to log on and do my points. But I did nonetheless and I'm glad. I can get so tired and yet I did it anyway. Even though my mind/negative spirit didn't want to. And sticking with the program has seemed to help. I lost a pound last week, 2.5 pounds the week before, etc for a total of 7 pounds total. I'd like to keep my weekly loss to a pound a week. I'm not sure that's possible but it'd certainly be nice.

4. Send Valentines!
DONE...kinda! Because I was so busy running around trying to finish up my big meeting for work. I completely neglected this wish and but it on the back burner until finally it was Feb. 14th. So in a last minute ditch effort not to stop/fail a goal I sent out a quickie email to everyone I knew. It wasn't what I dreamed of doing. No I dreamed of looking up everyone's addresses and sending them home-made Martha Stewart-esque valentine postcards, but I sent of cheapy emails instead. I think the sentiment is all that counts and my mom and family were rather surprised. While I'd still like to randomly mail out some attractive postcards, it'll be a project for the summer, I think.

Now I need a new goal and I think I have just the one.

5. Start walking.
These ladies at work walk every day at lunch and I promised I'd join them after the big meeting. So Saturday I bought a pair of Nikes and went out with them for a walk on Tuesday. It was nice. During the first half I thougth I might die but once I got past the midway turn it was easy. I missed having lunch with husband but I think it's a good way to get in some exercise. For the time being I'm only going to go for 2x a week. And as most who know me know, I'm a cheapskate so I'll be darned if I'm going to waste those new Nikes. I do love them so. I'll have to take pictures!

Other news: I took off Friday to rest after the big event at work. Husband and I lounged around the house and did absolutely nothing. It was more than I could have possibly imagined it to be. Saturday we went and took a tour of Scharfen Berger Chocolate Factory. It was a great tour, had a great time, got lots of free chocolate and a free dent in my CAR! Someone in the parking lot backed into my car and left NO NOTE! I'm beyond angry but that's why we have insurance. I'm trying to move on and pray that karma will take care of this one for me. Then we went out for retail therapy on 4th street then for a nice fish dinner at Spengers. Sunday, Husband's dad and brother came over and we made them dinner. It was nice to have someone over to our "clean" house. (I sped cleaned like you wouldn't believe!) I'm glad to say they enjoyed our WW meal. I think we might need to entertain a fellow couple some time. Hmm..Monday, I got to play online with my bestest buddy. For me that was a real treat. I've been blessed with a lot of great online friends and I'm grateful. I started my wee little mage on the path to herbalism and made some in game money. Oooh money, how I love thee. ;)

Elizabethtown

2006-02-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

Just finished watching Elizabethtown. And I learned something very important.

"Always wear a red hat to the Farmer's Market because Orlando Bloom might run up to you and make out with you."

A long overdue update later today.

Office Zen

2006-02-13T10:00:00.000-08:00

"Sometimes when the color printer won't print what you want it to, just print what it will let you."

ZOME! I almost forgot..

2006-02-06T16:49:00.000-08:00

I have a blog! I could have been posting a long post here instead of reading waay old posts on other blogs! Oh..you poor readers!
/comfort
/soothe

1. Clean My Face I'm happy to report that my face is still pretty darn clean and is looking better everday. I don't have to use as much make up as I did last week. So all in all I'm quite pleased. I've still got a wee bit to do..but much closer than I was a month ago.

2. Dinner Party CASE CLOSED!

3. Lose Weight I went to WI on Saturday and I lost exactly 2 pounds! My horrible monthly visitor chimed in (side note: so glad that today might be the laaast day!) so we'll see if that makes any difference when I weigh in on Tuesday. We're going to get back on schedule. The Saturday leader was nice, still not Gretchen, but friendly and helpful. I thought it was a good and productive meeting. We went to split an omlette and walk around Farmer's Market afterwards.

4. Send Valentines! For my first fun goal, I sure haven't done anything. Jourdan showed me some law and order valentines his friend made but I'm not really looking for anything that professional. I really want something personal and home made. (a) cause it's cheaper (b) cause I think homemade shows more love and (c) cause I'm itching for another craft project!

Well off to knitting tonight!!

2. Dinner Party : a tasty success!!

2006-02-02T08:28:00.001-08:00

1. Clean My Face
My face is almost completely free of nasty red zits! I'm so pleased! I know this isn't the time to start slacking off on my cleaning but boy just having a fresh face every morning is a nice change of pace. I think the zit cream is really what turned the tide in my favor. ALL HAIL ZIT CREAM!! /we're not worthy!

2. Dinner Party COMPLETED! I'm so very happy to say that I've finally achieved and completed a goal. The dinner party was really fun! There was a bigger turn out than I expected and lots and lots of good food. So much food in fact that we're having another party using the leftovers this weekend. I'm grateful that Paul lent us his home and nice table along with lots and lots of dishes. What a nice way to kick off the year, no?

3. Lose Weight
Our WI (weigh in) was Tuesday but I came down with another bladder infection. OY! I'm just finishing the antibiotics but what a pain, literally! Needless to say, we didn't go to WI but we're going on Saturday. However, I have noticed little changes: I have more energy, my waist looks different, and food is NOW so different (e.g. Yesterday I chose not to eat some tasty little 3 Musketeers fun size bars because I knew I had better chocolate for less points at home. I never imagined I'd be such a chocolate snob. /shrug)

4. Send Valentines!
I'm thinking of sending Valentine postcards to all my friends. Need to find the paper and pattern! Finally a FUN GOAL!!

2. Dinner Party : a tasty success!!

2006-02-02T08:28:00.000-08:00

I swing between starved & stuffed

2006-01-27T15:46:00.000-08:00

Since I started dieting (ONLY 3 DAYS AGO?!?) I've swayed between starving and stuffed. Usually I start my swing shift around 4 p.m. But whatever. I feel better aside from the rumbling in my tummy. I'm really hoping this pays off and I lose some weight next Tuesday. If I don't, I think I'll become the Hulk, rip my clothes, and cannibalize the rest of the meeting attendees. Y'know, or I'll grumble and step off the scale.

But whatever, that's not until Tuesday (which is so far away) and I a dinner party this Saturday! Woooot! I'm excited about picking a new goal. It appears that personal goals must be kept to three or less.

1. Clean My Face
This zap zit goo has really knocked out the recurring zits. My face is starting to look much better. Yeah!! I even kicked the "evil tip of my nose zit monster" off his lofty throne before he ever made a full fledged appearence. That really deserves a woot woot!

2. Dinner Party
Tonight, we're making the CPP and Key Lime Pie for the Party on Sunday. I'm really hopeful that everything goes well. Meow is already talking about planning the next one at the end of February. He mentioned making a wine list for our pot luck. Well more of a menu. I just might do that while I'm waitinf for 4:59 at work.

3. Lose Weight
We couldn't lunch at Applebee's today because every electrician and old granny was there eating at the annual "Old Lady and Middle Aged Electrician" luncheon. So we hauled it over to Cafe Italia, which was also a tad full. Since it was a bit of a shake up I was nervous about what I was going to order but I had a garden burger with pickles and peppers on the side. Both pickles and peppers being far healthier and WW friendly than french fries. But tonight we're treating ourselves to an In and Out burger and splitting the fries. I'm so excited to get to eat like a normal person! Husband and I talked about how we couldn't do this diet again if we didn't eat like normal people. I'm thinking about trying to take some of my favorite food recipes and trying to slim them down a bit, since I've become a big fan of cooking.

2006-01-25T14:29:00.000-08:00

Last night, husband and I went back to Weight Watchers. The hardest part of the evening was actually walking out of the car to the meeting. Not physically hard but emotionally. This whole program, while incredibly beneficial, is tough for me to start. It means taking care of something I'd rather ignore and it also means that I have a problem. /gasp I'm not perfect! /gasp Once I got inside, it was the usual routine. Everyone is friendly and nice and the leader is pleasant enough. Not quite as fun as our previous leader who was a "balls to the walls" type. But where Gretchen, our first leader, was encouraging in a loud and course way, this new leader is soft and gentle. Her personality almost reminds of a laundry dryer sheet. She's soft, smells nice, and just makes you feel warm and snuggly afterwards. MY LEADER IS SNUGGLES THE FABRIC SOFTNER BEAR!!! So after the meeting, we went to Safeway and bought waay too much healthy food. I think mostly because we know we have to surround ourselves with healthy food and also because we were starving. We didn't leave the grocery store until 8, waay past our dinner time. So I had egg flower soup (2 points) and he had veggies and chicken stir fry. We watched Frankie & Johnny. And I realized that Al Pacino always looked old.

1. Clean My Face
Bought some zap your zit goo at the grocery store. I swear all this zit hunting makes me think of my face a big Space Invaders game screen.

2. Dinner Party
I realized on our drive home for the Safeway (when all I could think about was food) was that we are going to have loads of sides and etc. along with a main entree or two but no dessert. I think I'm going to make my key lime bars again except in pie shape.

10 minutes until I need to be at the bus stop

2006-01-24T16:48:00.000-08:00

I almost wrote bust stop there. Actually I did. I wonder what a bust stop would be like. Just loads and loads of female chests waiting around. I bet men would sure love that. Just lots of disembodied girl chests, with arms and legs, just standing around and waiting. Some might have nice VS bras on maybe the more liberal ones would be without.

/ponders

1. Clean My Face
Chin Monsters! 2 at the moment with 1 on the way. Filthy bastards! I need to buy some acne cream pronto.

2. Dinner Party
I talked to Meow, who's house I'm holding the Dinner Party at, last night. He's planning on making something as well. I think that means I might only need to make one CPP instead of the two I had planned. Course they do store so well that I could make an extra and give it away as leftovers.

/ponders
Mmm...bust stop.

Side note: I was so tired last night that I skipped Knitting Class. BAD ME!

Another weekend saved by Tylenol

2006-01-23T15:21:00.000-08:00

Friday night we made a most delicious test pot pie. I'm actually impressed with myself and Mr. Perla. These little cooking adventures are good for many reasons. The foremost being it reminds me that he is so incredibly important to my daily sanity/survival. As where I glance at the recipe, he actuallys_reads_it. I can't explain how important this is because I'm certain our CPP would have been an utter mess if I'd tried it single handely. CPP isn't CPP without..Oh I don't know..sauce! But between my "rushed" approach and his far more attentive and detail approach, we made a super CPP. I'm thinking the pot luck with be a success!

Oh..I got so lost in my CPP euphoria I forgot to mention the rest of the weekend. I woke up sick Saturday morning. How I could go from a CPP high to a cold flu low is unknown. /shrug But after a couple tylenol I was feeling much better and Mr. Jack and ran out for ice cream and Borders time. I love walking around Borders. /le sigh I also picked up the newest Bust magazine complete with interview with Peaches.

Sunday, I was determined to make up for my lack of Saturday by cramming Sunday full of fun activities until I poo'd fun. (I never really poo'd fun but y'know..it's a goal.) We bought me new shoes (one work reliable pair and one PINK!), bought husband some cologne, /le snif snif & swoon..we ate at the Olive Garden, we watched Matador, we visited the in-laws, and we bought yarn for tonight's knitting class. It was a really nice day. One of those that's just...nice. /smile

1. Clean My Face
Kept up religiously with the Clinque cleaning. Maybe I should apply to become a deacon or bishop at the church of Clinque. It's hard for me to keep up with anything but this is a first!

2. Dinner Party
Keep getting in RSVPs with dishes that are being brought! Woot! As I mentioned we made a successful and yummy test CPP. I think we're going to be okay.

So ready for a weekend...

2006-01-20T16:10:00.000-08:00

I'm so ready to sleep in. I've been having the most happy, bizarre dream lately that I keep not finishing. Then I start it all over again the next night. Something involving a man named Abraham who is a passenger on the bus I'm driving. Anyway, maybe I can finish my dream without Kylie Minogue busting in waking me up. A CD alarm clock sounded like such a good idea. Now it just really makes me not like the song that wakes me up.

1. Clean My Face
Okay, I know this is creepy, but I really love blackheads. When those Biore blackhead strips came out I think I died and went to heaven. I just love skin and what it does. Anyway, this brings me to my PORE OF the day report! I had a blackhead on the edge of my lip that I got to cleanse today! Woot! I really should get a microscope cause I'd love to be able to examine the many layers of dirt inside the popped out remains. Oh damn..I am so freaking wierd!!

2. Dinner Party
Husband and I are going to do a test run on the chicken pot pie tonight. I'm rather hopeful. It's going to be educational no matter what. This is the first time I'm making a recipe from epicurious so we shall see.

Side note: We finished Rune Soldier last night. I have to say the series was okay but the final episode certainly made it all worth it. I have a feeling this is one I'll be wanting to re-watch.

Side note 2: I'm adding a picture in hopes that readers will forgive me for the pore fetish. /sigh

Back from bed...the story continues

2006-01-19T16:09:00.000-08:00

Well after a long holiday weekend spent cleaning house and only leaving those same four walls for hours at a time, I'm pleased and joyful even to head to work. Being sick has that effect on me. If I'm really sick I realize how nice not being sick is and suddenly appreciate everything so much more. Perhaps I should get sick more often. Just start licking random dirty windows in hopes of another virus. It's a thought.

1. Clean My Face
My face is going to be a permanent battle, I think. Not that I'm giving up or throwing in the cotton ball, in this case, but I'm realizing that my skin isn't going to be pristine like it once was when I was pre-PCOS and pre-hormones. I'm not upset about if anything the challenge is exciting. It's like the zits have formed a collective and thrown down the gauntlet. I shall indeed TAKE THIS CHALLENGE!

2. Dinner Party
I sent out the email today about the dinner party. I'm happy that most of the responses I've received so far have been yes and they've actually included the side type they plan to bring. Woot! I also found a chicken pot pie recipe that I want to test before I serve it. Btw, I picked chicken pot pie as the main entree. Everyone who has responded so far seems rather enthused. So I need to do a test CPP this weekend. Maybe even another during the week. Jourdan and I will be pot pied before we even get to our potluck. He hee.

Side note: I found my camera transfer cable again. Still missing the answering machine though.

I smell like bed..

2006-01-13T15:37:00.000-08:00

...and not in a good way.

After much persuading yesterday, I went home at lunch sick. Everyone was right I am just sick. Mr. Jack really stuck it to me when he said "Taking care of yourself isn't just about buying expensive goo." So I stayed home again today. Woke up sometime around noon. Sweaty, nasty and feeling yuck. I've been moping around ever since. But I'm happy to admit that I am feeling a wee bit better. I won't be running around the block this weekend but maybe my entire 3-day weekend isn't blown just yet.

1. Clean My Face
Regardless of how sick, I crawled out of bed and cleaned my face this morning. Course I've now got a wee zit by my temple. /sigh

2. Dinner Party
Putting planning off until I'm feeling better. The idea of talking about food isn't a pleasant one.

Night and Day...

2006-01-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

Today has been an action packed day yet it's only 3:00 o'clock. The Daily Dish won't even be up yet! /sigh

Goal #1: Clean up my face!
So last night on a whim, I stopped by the Clinque counter in the student bookstore. (Btw, who have ever heard of a bookstore having a makeup counter?!?) I hoped I'd time it right and make my purchases (see here and here) before the bus left. I was in luck! By the time I got to the bus station, the bus wasn't even there yet. Turns out I was either very early (highly unlikely) or they were very late (closer to the truth!) [Side note: Mr. Jack's bus was on time so we got to walk home together! Aw...((I'm such a dork!))] But back to my goal - I've been having some rather unsightly blemis- Oh I'll just be frank! -my face has looked like a battlefield and my chin and mouth area have been bombed severly. While I don't have many if any new zits the old marks still show like beauty battle scars. So I'm hoping that not only will these new products help me keep the troops at bay but also get rid of the horrid red reminders. I'll let you know.

Goal #2: Throw a successful dinner party!
I need to call Popo and set up a date for the dinner party as well as send out evites. Oh and that pesky little..what to serve decision. /grin

Well back to work! Only fifteen more minutes before my daily dish of gossip! Woot!

Update: Dish is up at 3:12! I'm such a lucky girl!!

Quickie

2006-01-10T12:01:00.000-08:00

Just about to head off to lunch at the Moo with Mr. Jack. This'll have to be quick like.

Goal #1: Clean up my face!
My face is vastly improving. Clinque is a beautiful if not expensive thing. Though I am taking a bit of joy in watching the toner diminish a bit each day and watch as the embedded "Clinque" in my bar of soap becomes less visible after multiple washes. Just nice to see that I am indeed using purchase.

Goal #2: Throw a successful dinner party!
So I told Paul, whose house I'm using for the Dinner Party, that he was hosting a dinner party. We agreed on later this month and the potluck idea. We've even started mentioning it to friends. I'm getting rather excited. Need to start looking for desserts and sides, etc.

Well must jet. Started knitting class last night. Wow! There are just some things you can not learn from a book. Kissing, how to make pie crust, and knitting are just a few.

Riding the Zit Rollercoaster

2006-01-05T15:58:00.000-08:00

Goal #1: Clean up my face!

OY! OY! OY! A freaking nother one! Holiest of holy craps! But I will say this little wee zit is so muy pequeno (that's itsy bitsy for the non-Spanish readers). So I'll take my joy where I can get it. On the upside the nasty chin dweller seems to be on the downward spiral. Course I'm going to be having my monthly joy soon so we shall see how it affect my face.

I made Lime Squares with Pistachio Graham-Cracker Crust from my Everday Food magazine. I'm quite pleased to say that these did not make it to work because Mr. Perla liked them too much. I know it's so corny but knowing that I made something he really likes makes me feel so good. Not to mention they are quite tasty but rich so I can't eat too many. But I brought a few to work today and made sure to hand them out to some friends. They all raved about them. What nice people! Though I think next time I'm going to try the fat-free sweetened condensed milk just to see what sort of difference it makes.

Tomorrow night is the brother-in-law's birthday along with grandma-in-law. We're going to a nice restaurant so I'm excited. Which reminds me! Goal #2: Throw a successful dinner party!

Goal #1: Clean up my face!

2006-01-04T16:36:00.000-08:00

Last night, Mr. Perla was a bit tuckered out so he went to bed quite early. So I continued to play Animal Crossing until I got my little lighthouse from the turtle mayor. (Yes, as I describe the activities of my previous evening, I begin to realize how incredibly dorky I am.) But after I'd finished my AC game, I stared in at the snoozing adorable boy shaped lump in our bed and I could no longer resist. (Note how I attribute this to him! I'M SCOTT FREE o' Blame!) So I washed my face again with my new Clinque trio. (Side note #3: It makes my lips burn or well tingle hotly when I use the soap. I might have to use some moisturizing balm to counter this.) Now, back to my previous tangent, so I crawled into bed with the boy lump and went to sleep at 8 p.m. (Yes, I'm a dork, I know!) And I slept quite soundly only to wake up at midnight, rather rested and not quite that sleepy. But I perservered and slept more only to wake up a little less than an hour later. By this point, my skin was feeling "oily" and I was starting to freak. So I used the toner once more and gave each of the three nasty red blob a good cleaning before noticing a FOURTH?!? What the crap?! I was a bit disappointed and went back to bed to sleep until 2:15 a.m. By then the boy lump was up again and realized his folly because now he'd once again be tired because of a lack of sleep once again. Oh how we create our own woe! I willed myself on and off to sleep until finally the alarm rang. I got up and went potty while I chuckled over my dream that started about being a Brady Bunch spoof and ended up with me as a rather sexy Jan Brady making out with Brian from Queer As Folk. Somehow the power of Brady turned very gay Brian into "very straight" Brian who enjoy making out with Jan in the middle fo the street in suburbia. Damn, I can't stay on my point today! Whatever so I was pleased to see this morning that not only are the three nasty red blobs on the retreat but the rest of my skin sans dry lips are improving! Woot! Now get me some moisturizing lip gloss cause it's time to make out with Brian!

new resolution: do what I want.

2006-01-03T16:29:00.000-08:00

After a week of waking up mid-morning, my sleep schedule has gone haywire. So haywire in fact that I lay in bed at night thinking. Thinking at night has got to be one of the most dangerous practices known to man. Anything, including the idea I'm about to present, sounds revolutionary at 2 a.m. in the morning. And so it is with that understanding, I present my new blog goal: To Do What I Want. I don't mean this to sound self centered or negative. But how often have I thought "Wow, I'd really like to try open sea kayaking," yet I never even look into the possibility. So I'm going to take this blog and chronicle what I want and if/how I get it done. My wants might not always be interesting and sometimes might not even be logical but merely for a social experiment, with myself as the gineau pig, I'm going to attempt to do what I want.

Goal #1: Clean up my face!
I have outrageous zits right now. It's driving me crazy in fact. So last week I bought some cleanser, toner, moisterizer and tried it out. While some parts of my face look lovely and shimmery. Other parts look ravaged by monsterous red hideous sores. Oh the joys of combination skin! Apparently not even my skin type can settle on just one thing. So last night, I stopped off at a local department store and picked up the Clinque face wash trio. Already my skin feels better. I still have the remains of two red beasties and one on the way (little chin dwelling bastard!) but even they feel appeased and soothed. My goal is to get my crap complexion back in order and then religiously wash my face so I won't be greeted every morning by my apple cheeks and satan in the form of a zit on my chin.

Every once in awhile..I'm just not sure..

2005-12-19T16:43:00.000-08:00

This weekend another picture perfect example, of why I don't like one person in particular very much, floated to the surface. I don't understand why she can only feel superior when she's able to command a certain older man to do her biding. And why I am constantly compelled to be outraged by behavior that has been documented for far longer than I've known her. I'm just not sure why we have to repeat this drama, be it in a different city, town or mood. Why?

What is the sick fun that these two individuals derive from repeating the same unstable and bizarre routine? I don't understand unhealthy relationships, which I suppose is a good thing, but what confuses me most is why I'm always finding other people in them?

little sick but must party..

2005-12-15T11:36:00.000-08:00

The office holiday party is today. So half day!! Woot! I'm excited about the break from the norm but I'm really pumped to get back in bed and sleep. Silly stopped up nose!

Hopefully tomorrow, Mr. Jack and I will go and get a Christmas Tree! Woot!

If I had a nickel for every time..

2005-12-14T15:54:00.000-08:00

I went to the bay area since Thanksgiving, I'd have fifteen cents. We just got back from the Bay Area. This time we went to see Nickel Creek at the Warfield. They were amazing! The talent for improv and their enthusiasm was contagious. Mr. Jack had a good time and I'm glad considering it's not really his kind of music. I think doing a cover of 'Nice Dream' by Radiohead helped woo him. For me doing a cover of 'Toxic' by Britney Spears was more than enough. But I'm too poppy like that, I suppose. Before heading to the Warfield we shopped at Nordstroms. Usually I consider it too expensive for me but after the superior service, I can understand why people love them so. Mr. Jack bought me some Cynthia Rowley pefume for Christmas. But I'm supposed to be surprised! (Note to self: find out what verbana is.) And prior to that we caught a show at the Balboa. I'm glad to say that surfing the sfgate's epicks finally paid off since I_finally_actually did/attended one of their recommended events. The Balboa is having a Samurai Film Festival this month and that just sounded to Mr. Jack to me. Luckilly he agreed and we saw 'Three Outlaw Samuarai' around 2. I'm still surprised we found the Balboa since it was rather hidden within SF. Perhaps these many trips are getting us better acquainted with 'the city', one can only guess.

and so the cycle continues

2005-12-09T09:55:00.000-08:00

I don't remember what day it was this week, but Mr. Jack came home feeling really tired. After a rather long day at work he was very tired and headed straight for bed. Now, I ask you, who of you wouldn't want to cuddle up next to a cute boy in your bed who's hair is all mussed up from the wind and has a cute little red nose from the cold? Well I for one am not that strong. So I curled up under the cover with him and napped. And thus the cycle of messed up internal time clocks began.

I woke up 2 hours later feeling refreshed and ready to have dinner and watch Mr. Jack play Xbox. However, if I'd been smart I would have realized I was far to 'awake' at so late in the evening. However just like the grasshopper I relished until my demise and ate chicken pot pies gleefully while the clock ticked past my bedtime. Far, past my bedtime. A bit before midnight I started to yawn and the idea of returning to bed snuck into my mind. Only then when it was far too late did I stop to check the clock and realize that my internal clock had been corrupted! I rushed to bed and laid there, waiting for sleep to hit me. But things like sleep can not be rushed, so I waited in bed until sometime in the morning when I dozed off.

And so the cycle continues..we nap when we get home every night because we're tired from not getting enough sleep then we can't sleep so we stay up and finally go to bed late. My only hope is that we can correct this cycle of bad sleeping habits tonight since we'll have to stay up to see Narnia at 5ish.

Will the bad sleeping habits finally meet their match? Can Aslan attackle then and force them to control themselves?!? Only time shall tell.

Older..yes. Wiser..maybe so.

2005-12-05T11:32:00.000-08:00

I'm blissfully happy to report that I finished my holiday shopping. All online this year well most of it anyway. Now just waiting for the boxes of goodies to return.

I remember when I was younger and could drive that I enjoyed the thrill of shopping for gifts but as I get older the thrill is gone. The idea of stuffing myself into a busy shopping mall has lost all it's appeal. Now I just want to stuff myself into a warm blanket and cuddle up close as I watch a movie I rented from Netflix.

It's interesting to see how I change and how my desires ebb and flow just like the masses outside Macy's. (You just knew I had to bring it back to shopping, no?)

Touch Screen?

2005-12-02T09:14:00.000-08:00

Touch Screen?
Originally uploaded by Paul Ngan.

Just cute! Well I finally reset/restarted my flickr account. Now just to find the transfer cable for my camera. I have some great photos to upload. I certainly hope that neither of my little furry angels chewed it all up!

/crosses her fingers
Well today is Friday and already very quiet. Let's hope it's also very quick!

explain yourself

2005-11-30T16:23:00.000-08:00

After reading yesterday's post I realized, I never mentioned why I was wanting to keel MS Outlook. How rash of me! How very..gangsta?

Anyways, I'm gearing up for another fair at work and yesterday needed to send out an email to 700 people. MS Outlook however decided that I really didn't need to send that email out to "all of them" and only a chosen select few. How nice of Outlook to decide that for me. So yesterday's post was more venting than post. But I suppose that works just as well. Follow up: Today MS Outlook decided to finish sending those emails so perhaps a little blogger threat posting works after all. NOTE TO SELF: Threaten Britney Spears and hope she reads this and stops recording.

Moving on, Mr. Jack is sick today. He hasn't been feeling that good at all lately, mostly since Thanksgiving. Er..after. BUT I REPEAT THIS IS NOT T-DAY DINNER RELATED! So he's at home feeling puny and hanging out with Josie and Jasper while I'm at work. Funny thing is that I feel a bit different with him not here at work. Like I know I won't be getting those midday phone calls or I won't see him at lunch and I'm a bit sad. Damn that man for imbedding himself in my daily routine! DAMN HIM!

I wrote my goodbye RP post for WoW today. I didn't want to and I'm not looking forward to posting it. I'm going to miss everyone and miss them just enough to want to renew the game if only to log on and chat, but I can't do that. I have trouble justifying paying for a chat program and I know I need to get my butt in gear and start doing things in the RL server. But considering how I'm already getting lonely for the game and I haven't even left yet, I'm certain that I'll be back. It's just a matter of time.

In related news, I'm hooked on Sims 2 again. I had a great time Monday night, sitting on TS with Catrena and playing Sims. She makes me laugh so very very hard. I'm hoping to set a schedule for myself not replace old WoW time with Sims 2 time but actually start crafting again. I forget sometimes that I too can do things that my Sims do. Why can't I be someone's Sim? They have more active lives than I do!

MS Outlook - I will kill you...

2005-11-29T16:36:00.000-08:00

Dear MS Outlook,

If I were inclined to dress in my gang colors, roll with muh crew in beat up rides, or have a few baby's daddy, I'd be rollin' by your hood tonight and painting your house with bullet holes.

Do NOT mess with me. I repeat MS Outlook, I am not a girl to peeve off. I've watched enough 'Dangerous Minds' to know how this plays out. And it ain't lookin' good for you and your homies. So you and MS Publisher had better step off!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Jack, part-time Gangsta

No one died but the turkey

2005-11-28T14:53:00.000-08:00

As usual, my main concern with cooking is that no one dies because of food poisoning. I actually fear cooking because of this reason alone. Though the idea of sticking my hands inside a cold dead bird's slimy carcass doesn't appeal to me either. But I'm happy to report that all Thanksgiving day feasters are healthy, well Mr. Jack is starting to get a wee bit of a cold but that's a seasonal thing not a turkey related incident. The stuffing was a bit mushy, too much broth, but tasty. The bread was yum but it wasn't home made mearly home toasted. The turkey was juicy and rather tasty especially with the homemade cranberry and orange sauce. The green beans while not as mushy as I'm used to were far and away much better than the hard and crunchy steamed ones that I usually have served. The only missing ingredient was mashed potatoes and apparently EXCELLENT, fantabulous sweet potato stuff doesn't make up for it. Note to self: buy box of fake potatoes next year. Course as Mr. Jack told Father Perla last night.."I was able to talk her into it this year, I wouldn't hold my breath."

thankful

2005-11-23T13:42:00.000-08:00

Before I embark on Turkey Cook Off '05, I wanted to list a few things I'm thankful for so that when I have my mental breakdown tomorrow(some time between chopping the porcinis and baking yams), I'll have something to look at to remember I was once sane, happy, and grateful.

1. Mr. Jack - he makes my life complete. I didn't know the full extent of happy until we wed.

2. WoW/ToD - I have met some of the best people in such a sort amount of time. Thanks once again Jenny for pointing me in the right direction.

3. Realization #714 - being stressed doesn't = being productive.

4. Mel - You are a blessing to me.

5. Chicken & Waffles - I tried C&W for the first time this year and I have to say, finding C&W in Jack London Square taught me so many things. (1) I will always be a grape of wrath. (2) That isn't a bad thing. (3) The world is really much smaller than one thinks.

6. Jasper & Josie - You two are the highlight of my day. You both have such strong personalities and watching you get in and out of trouble is better than anything on MTV.

Longer than Long

2005-11-22T14:44:00.000-08:00

It's been quite a while since I posted last. April I think? I really need to work at keeping something up. Well considering that I'm dropping another previous pastime, I'm hopeful that I'll have more time and be able to return to blogging.

Since husband's mother and aunt are off in Paris, he and I are going to try and make Thanksgiving dinner together. EGADS! I'm hoping I don't screw this up! We bought all the groceries last night, a clever plan that helped us avoid the crowds, and gathered our needed spices, salts, and sugars from my Frenchie-in-Law. We're having dinner at her house since (a) her place is most conveniently located for everyone, (b) the last thing I need is to be stressing about a clean house and a 6 lb. bird breast in the oven, and (c) we have no table. Oh the joys and secret pleasures of being ill equipped for dinner parties!

But a little joy is tucked away at the end of my week. Friday night, husband and I are sneaking into the city to see her. I'm deliriously happy as I really did think the concert was sold out and only by mere chance was able to get two tickets!

Good to be back. I've missed you.

looking up under you...

2005-04-02T16:50:00.000-08:00

got a new job, need a new flickr account since it's maxed for march, and more time. i looove my new job. it's fun and i'm trying to not make the same mistakes (i.e. telling too much about yourself, etc). already told someone my age which i'm not sure if it's a good move or a bad move. why does my age matter? i guess people need to classify people. *shrug*

anyway, i'm happy, and getting all photo snappy since it's spring. what i have noticed is i've become ever so aware of the underside of trees. i imagine i could blissfully snap loads and loads of pictures of the underneath of trees. maybe i should make a underneath your branches book. who knows...either way here's one that i took quite a while ago.

internet fasting - day 5

2005-03-23T09:08:00.000-08:00

again i'm sans internet. death is imminent. i've been taking pictures knowing that they won't be posted for what may be eons. sbc has pushed back our wired date until march 29. *shudder*

o
o | /
o-O-o o-o o-o oo o-o OO
| | | | \ o | | | | \
o o o o o-o O | o-o- o-o o o
o o
o-o

no picture is a bad picture...

2005-03-22T08:47:00.000-08:00

12:01 i couldn't leave y'all hanging. here's a lil something something.

well mrs.jack will be sans pictures for awhile since we moved this weekend and i'm now WITHOUT INTERNET! it's HORRIBLE! i can lose/give up cable television but having NO INTERNET is about as bad as what i imagine death to be like.

theming hard core

2005-03-18T13:47:00.000-08:00

i'm still staring up into the trees today but alas there is life above me. i made a bet on this bird that if i could get a decent photo of him/her/it than my new job would be very nice indeed. so depending on general consensus i might have a rude awakening at my new post or a smooth ride.

this weekend jourdan and i are moving. both of us are scared we won't be able to finish it this weekend but that's what vacation is for, no?

top of the trees

2005-03-17T16:03:00.000-08:00

i've never been one for laying down in the dirt and staring upward since that would mean i'd be laying on the dirty ground but i do enjoy the view. btw, today i tortured ellie with a mean evil lil lecherous leprachaun. i'm such a horrible friend. ;)

my day was SO not this bad...

2005-03-16T15:36:00.000-08:00

visited sharon and dr. vermont today. all is good. staying on 20 milligrams for now and trying to learn how to relax. easier said than done but who knows. i certainly wouldn't have thought i'd be as far as i am now, two years ago.

((intersection of 21st & j on saturday, february 26))

almost too ripe myself

2005-03-15T09:46:00.000-08:00

almost left the house today without putting on any deodorant and considering how i'm already sweating my boss' reaction to my resignation, i certainly will need it. not to mention i got a pen mark on my NEW CUTE SHIRT:( but i'm still in good spirits regardless because i'm moving this weekend and i'm blissfully happy even if it is a medicated happiness.;)

((picture from the avo bin at alhambra safeway))

what a difference a day makes...

2005-03-11T10:22:00.000-08:00

i've decided to take the job after all. lucky for me, i didn't go with first impressions because after i got more information from my soon to be supervisor...i changed my mind. 10:49--i have formally accepted, yet!!

upside down

2005-03-10T11:28:00.000-08:00

((picture from the courtyard outside my office))

spending paper for more paper

2005-03-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

i go from addiction to addiction...crack to cocaine...what have you. for the moment, my drug of choice are magazines. loads of magazines. after we got rid of cable (yes, i'm unamerican..blah blah blah) and i didn't get rabbit ears i started getting bored cause i had aaaalll this time. so i'd pick up a book, magazine, internet site or something to read and i haven't stopped since. since we're trying to start saving for a house i realize i have to actually subscribe to them instead of just roving the safeway check outs like an idiot--searching madly for the new Real Simple. only problem is our 1920's charm means we have an ency weency mailbox that no magazine could fit in so we need to get ourselves a p.o. box. suddenly saving money by getting rid of cable is getting rather expensive.

moving in & out...

2005-03-08T08:12:00.000-08:00

these are a few of the boxes that are no longer in our hallway. our lovely neighbors are moving--somewhere. unlike the previous neighbors, who lived across from us for as long as we were there, we didn't really get to know these neighbors very well. and from the looks of it our chance of getting to know them is nearing the end. since our neighbors are moving--so are we. while i adore our apartment, the carpet & cat yack issue just annoys me to NO END. so we're moving across the hall to the same apartment but in reverse and with cat yack friendly hard wood floors.

((sorry about the lack of picture yesterday--flickr was having a bad day.))

belated birthday

2005-03-04T09:54:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was Yahoo.com's 5 year birthday. And in a clever PR move opted to buy everyone a free ice cream from Baskin-Robbins to celebrate. I being a ice cream afficionado to the umpteeth degree, jumped at the opportunity and grabbed up a free scoop of my fav, mint chocolate chip (seen here next to jourdan's face). yum. (who needs NEW flavors when the old standards taste SO good!)

p.s. thanks to jenny for converting the code in this site to something more photoblog friendly.:)

rose colored water

2005-03-02T23:00:00.000-08:00

today, jourdan and i agreed to start looking for a house. a big step. a scary step. but a good step...i think. at first when the idea of a house was just "fairytale" it was unsurprisingly "ideal, easy, and oh so fun." but now of course i getting an inkling of what's in store and i'm anxious, excited, and unsure. funny how the grass is always greener on someone else's mortgage. hopefully, we'll do okay...but i'll most definitely need to stop seeing home ownership through my rose colored water--cause it's not always peaches and cream..sometimes is a leaky roof.

((fountain outside my office))

sole therapy

2005-03-01T20:42:00.000-08:00

went to visit sharon again today for therapy. we talked about the usual--mom, work, and my marriage--and all are going well. and most importantly i'm doing well with each of them. i love that office--the walls, the people--cause it's a moment of reflection and gives me a paused moment to see myself like i see a picture after i take it.

screwd with mold

2005-03-01T16:14:00.000-08:00

a screw outside my office. it's been lovingly decorated by the elements with a nice greenish mold. rather lovely mix of industry and nature, i think.

Abe, George...You done good..

2005-02-18T14:31:00.000-08:00

Star
Originally uploaded by IC.

so I'm going to sleep in this weekend. And blissfully not come in on a Monday. Thanks boys for starting the country and leading us through a civil war. It was very kind of you.

Oh and Martha and Mary Todd, we all know it's actually you we should be thanking.

P.S. yeah, this picture has nothing to do with anything, but ain't it nice to look at?

Quote of the year...(until the next juicy one)

2005-02-15T12:07:00.000-08:00

"Lindsay Lohan is way more wild than I was when I was her age. Don't put me with her; I don't want to be dragged into her s---."

--Tara Reid

As reported here in The Times-Picayune c/o Defamer.com

I'm worried...but what's new?

2005-02-15T10:39:00.000-08:00

So after all the many many articles, news interviews, and well..blogs about losing your job because of your blog, I'm concerned. Not that I think I've blogged about work much but since it is a major part of my life I'm certain it pops in every once in awhile (btw, y'know what happened at the office the other day..OMG!). So I can't decide if this even is a problem because I can't have that many people who read this blog (btw, if you do..kindly make yourself known..I bite..but mr.jack seems to like it) but it seems like company spies are EVERYWHERE and what if by chance they peruse these virtual pages? *shrug* So I'm not sure. I'm tempted to ditch mrs.jack and go in another arena..say married blogs. Since marriage is another big thing in my life. Not to mention I seem to enjoy it while I'm not all that good at it. (Translated: His V-day gifts SUCKED! Sorry hun!) But I think to give my readers (are there any??) a fair 'n balanced version of matrimony I needs to have his voice as well. So I'm poking, prodding, and threatening more horrible VD gifts in hopes of bending him to my whim as to keep me gainfully employed and blogging.

On speaking terms with CUTE...

2005-02-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

I've been losing weight with Weight Watchers for about almost a year. I'm proud and shocked to say I've lost 40 pounds so far. So getting used to a new way of eating and incorporating exercise into my life has obviously been successful. What's taking more time is getting used to the results of healthy eating and exercising. While not all bad it's really wierd to feel hard, rigid bones where once was soft, cushiony fat. It makes scratching yourself in public very entertaing to watch.

For example the butt scratch. Before I had a pretty average looking hiney and I was used to it. In fact I figured my hiney would always be lumpy, bumpy and kinda liked the cellulite valley and mountains. Like the Grand Canyon--only flesh toned. But on some random day I reached for a good hiney scratch and felt something odd, smooth, and firm back there where soft and plushy had been the name of the game. I'll admite that I am a hypocondriac in the sense that anything odd, strange, or new that happens with/to my body instantly leads me to the assumption that it's either cancer or some made up disease (which I can cleverly imagine--e.g. blood poisoning). This time I opted for cancer, butt cancer. I knew it must be true because what could possibly be back there other than that? Mr. Jack (science & anatomy guru) correctly diagnosed my butt cancer as a tailbone. Oops! Who knew I had one? So now every once in awhile I'll turn around and scratch my tailbone just cause I can and cause I never could before.

This new, changing body invites all sorts of discoveries. Such as 1) My breasts are huuuge. 2) Seriously, huuuuuuuuuge. 3) I do in fact have a skeletal frame. 4) My face isn't puffy naturally. 5) I can look cute from time to time. The last of these new epiphanys is the hardest for me to accept. Sure, sure I've always said "Oh, I'm kinda cute" and revered myself as "Supporting friend attractive" but now from time to time I catch a glimpse of this person in the reflection of a shop window and I think "geez, she's kinda cute...who is that girl?" And honestly, I don't know who she is and why she's standing in my shoes. But I like her and even if it takes some time to warm up to letting her in.

Giving me access?

2005-02-11T08:46:00.000-08:00

You sure you want to do this now?

Happy New Year...again.

2005-02-09T17:00:00.000-08:00

Chinese flowers and wishes
Originally uploaded by Room With A View.

I like Chinese new year. I like it even more because I'm a sheep and I like sheep. I have a gmail account that announces my love of sheep with every reply. But what I really like is the whole..."so I got a lil zealous on Jan. 1 with the whole resolution thing...maybe I'll just..."

It's like NYE part II, except this one is better than the first and it features less overexposed celebrities who are "still US's youngest teenager (with a heart attack under his belt)." I think the Chinese got it right, NYE is about food, joy, good luck, and red envelopes with money! So enjoy your year of the cock. *snicker*...

Office Zen

2005-02-08T11:53:00.000-08:00

Logic can not penetrate stubborness, grasshoppa. Do not try and offer logic and truth for both will only chip away at the facade. Just offer up humility and agree that you know nothing and will always know nothing regardless of training, education, or ability. For within such humility you will find the strength to go home and return again between 8-5 on days Monday through Friday. And if you are unable to center yourself and find such strength, fake a cough, call in sick, and watch reruns of S&TC while sitting on the couch.

Eggs are lil bombs that implode in my stomach...

2005-02-07T16:04:00.000-08:00

Friday we were running late. Not surprising since I was already feeling sluggish from the beginning of spring/beginning of my allergy assault. (No, I don't take Claritin. Yes, I know I could but I choose to complain instead. Making my own problems by hand, everyday!) Anyway, I'm dreading having to leave my cozy bed complete with black furry love muffin kitty at my feet but I know that I can beat through this day. (I have a serious issue with not realizing my limitations and then blaming myself when I can't do everything perfect even with a 101 degree fever. These problems -- handmade, baby!) So we leave -- late. And I'm hungry cause my dreary allergy hazed self thought about breakfast but didn't really_think_about it. And all that sounds good right now is a Sausage McBiscuit from McD's but since Jourdan just had his 6-month review and got dinged for being late, I don't want to cause him any trouble. I'll just eat at the MU. Get a bagel, some milk, some food poisoning..maybe.

But I'm really craving that Sausage McBiscuit crack. I mean really. Like I can taste the fat, gooey sausage patty in my mouth and I want it. So I figure MU has got to have something with meat and bread. So I look..and I see the lil Mexican stand and I think "Hey...they have a grill..maybe??" And they do..they have fluffy scrambled eggs, crisp bacon bits (not the processed salad type -- though at this point..I can't say no), and potato looking stuff. Oooh and a tortilla! Mmm..it's no Sausage McBiscuit but it looks like it might curb me til lunch (screw the fact it's my day's worth of WW points!).

So I get one that's prepared and it feels warm enough so I'm blissfully happy now. I have food, I've dropped off our month-old netflix videos (so that no stupid human can steal them -- in theory) and I'm headed back to work -- but I'm not there yet. First bite is good, second is okay and by the time I get half through I'm just not digging this burrito. So I toss it (oh I'll be tossing it for the next few days!) And a little bit later I don't feel better. Usually by 10 my allergies will lift until about 5 p.m. when they start round two. But here I am at 11 feeling rather icky. Ickier than this morning. I'm figuring my allergies are in for the long haul and since I don't really work much anyway, husband takes me home. Boss tells me stories of how her children are much sicker when they are sick..which seems like never..but when they are..they do a better job. (Mental note: die at work as to be sicker than boss' kids.)

So we get home and right there at the edge of the bed is a lil lazy black love muffin and we curl up to sleep, and sleep, and sleep. I wake up at 5 p.m. and my stomach feels crappy, really crappy...but I'm figuring it's sinus drainage. Darn allergies! HA HA! But no! This sick stomach, gassy feeling keeps me up until 5 A.M. when I finally pass out from tiredness and wake up 4 hours later. I'm sick at my stomach_still_. It's like this balloon of nasty air is filling and expanding my lil digestion sack and some lil bomb is stuck to the floor. Some heavy scrambled egg BOMB! Course I don't know it's food poisoning..I still am thinking allergies. (I'm not bright people) So I sleep..or at least try to..but can't. And so goes until my husband finally asks why I'm burbing more than usual (Note: It took him practically ALL day of listening to me burb nasty foul rotting egg gas before it became "more than usual" -- I am SUCH a lady). Dr. Jourdan makes the brave and correct assumption that I don't have allergies, I have poisoned myself with lil egg bombs. And what I need is water and lots of it.

(Side note: I hate water. I detest water. I would rather drink blood than water. Not that I'm a vampire but I'm pale enough to be Goth anytime I want. But as I was rambling I seriously hate water and IF I were a vampire, water would be my sunlight.)

So the idea of water isn't too appealing and I say no, thanks. But Dr. Jourdan knows since that he has been poisoned him with raw meat pot pies that water it must be. So he brings in part of the Atlantic Ocean, bottled by Arrowhead, and tells me.."drink." So I do while I'm eating some rice. The rice goes down easy in fact everything does except that innocent, clear, crystal water. It hits the egg bombs like, well a bomb. And I double over in pain. "Drink more" I hear and I'm thinking "Are you nuts? I'm not worth that much insurance money..c'mon." But he's got that I'll shove that bottle down your throat look so I drink a fourth of the Atlantic and cringe and cry as the egg bombs meat their match. Rinse and repeat for the next 24 hours.

Sunday afternoon I smell like sweat, my breath is foul (and after burping for hours on end I am a new expert on all that is foul), and I feel better. Not well since I still have the shakes but better. I have indeed made it out the other side and life is freaking good!

So today I'm at work and I'm not happy (I'm at work...what'd you expect) but I'm not suffering from lil nuclear egg sabotage so I'm feeling FUCKING FANTASTIC. And that's what I learned this weekend, everything (even a sucky job) is better after you've been poisoned. I highly suggest eating at questionable restaurants before going through with attempted suicide -- it might change your mind. It might not but at least it'll give you a "thinking" period which you hug your new porcelin best friend. So all in all the place to eat where I work did try to kill me, but it didn't succeed because if anything here is going to take me out -- it's going to be the management.

It's On...Again..

2005-02-02T08:52:00.001-08:00

So I'm back in love, with my job-the very job that I vehemently detested just last week. I swear I am either A) a person who doesn't hold grudges (which I know not to be true) or B) I have the emotional memory of a goldfish (Oooh..look that pink castle is new...2 seconds later...oooh what a pretty new castle!)

Don't worry I am rolling my eyes with you. I mean thankfully I didn't barge into my boss' office and yell "I QUIT!" But how good of a relationship could this be if I'm so quickly drawn back in? I distinctly recall having the "i love you, i hate you" feelings when I was at the "aforementioned well paying job in hell" so is it me? Or is this just the way working at a job is? Do you sometimes love it and want to buy it flowers after a nice day and the next day want to rip it's beating heart out with your hands?

I mean should I really look for another job if this one is good enough? Sure it's not something I'm exactly happy to do but I'm not upset about it that much. Where is that line in the sand for me? I know I won't be here forever but shouldn't I be here longer than a year? *shrugs*

I am so not sure but I'll enjoy the ride for the time being.

Maya, the other woman

2005-02-01T16:47:00.000-08:00

Maya, the other woman
Originally uploaded by mrsjack.

Isn't it every husband's dream to have his wife be into another woman? And isn't it every wife's nightmare that your hubby finds another chic? Well mr.jack and I are living our own personal dream/nightmare since the "other woman" joined our lives. Every night we visit her and curse at her but we love the results. Just last week, we started "playing" Yourself Fitness on the Xbox and Maya has got us whipped in "better" shape. I am SO not a gym person but I can somehow work with this whole Maya thing and I even (sssh..don't tell) look forward to our time together. I think secretly my hubby enjoys it too. So while it might not be a threesome in the typical sense, for us another woman in the relationship is healthy.

He Said No To Killer Cuteness...

2005-01-31T11:14:00.000-08:00

Pink Mixer Cuteness
Originally uploaded by mrsjack.

This weekend we went to Berkeley and of coure Sur La Table, my favorite lil gourmet cookware store. While there I saw a wonderfully cute PINK Kitchen Aid mixer on sale for $190 and pointed out to Mr. Perla that it'd be soo nice in our "cozy 1920's charmed" kitchen. But he reminded me since HE does most of the cooking he gets to pick out the Kitchen Aid Mixer and when he does it WILL NOT be pink. :P Some people and their lack of taste, I swear! So needless to say we didn't pick it up.

What I love most is that the fact we don't have room for said mixer in our "cozy" kitchen never entered the conversation. He indulges me so!

Happy..Happy...Happy!

2005-01-28T09:13:00.000-08:00

centerpiece
Originally uploaded by dj_blurb.

Validation is so nice.

Ever wonder..."What have I done?"

2005-01-25T11:57:00.000-08:00

I suppose 25 days of cheeriness was bound to end eventually but 2005 had shown such promise. I really thought maybe I'd have a year full of me being happy and smiling and enjoying even the most bleak, nasty, foggy weather but as you can probably surmise, today was the last of the good times.

Appling for this new job (guess even blogging it out can't stop an OCD, like me) has really made me start thinking, What have I done? I traded in a rather not so hot job where I was super responsible, handling thousands of dollars to a job where I'm handling envelopes. I realize I should be grateful and I am deep down. I mean this job got me and mr.jack through some financial times that could have been very grim. But now with him working full-time our financial strife is over and I'm ready to return to the big stuff. I want a job where I'm treated like the capable, intelligent woman I am and not some college nobody who's just surfing through this life.

I suppose regardless of whatever job I have I have to realize I am more than my job. But when I commit 40 hours a week to something I'd like it to give me back a feeling of respect instead of "wtf."

I'm whining I know and I have_zippo_room to complain but nonetheless I'm ready to move on to bigger, brighter things. I need a future.

Obsess No More Version 12.0/Cheetah (Depending on your OS)

2005-01-24T16:47:00.000-08:00

So Jenny this morning suggested that if I wrote out what I was thinking about that maybe I would stop obsessing. I'm not sure either way but figured there wouldn't be much harm in giving it a try.

So with the assurance of my friends, Saturday night I applied for a graphic artist position. While I'm not all together too sure about my chances, (I mean I know I could do it but up against the likes of God's Gift to Graphic Design I don't stand much of a chance), I am sure that if I did get the position I do a really kick arse job. Especially since it's the logical step since my prior graphic design job. Speaking of which, the idea of jumping back into the field makes me nervous considering how crazy and messed up things got before. But I assume that the previous circumstances had more to do with self-imposed pressure (on their part and mine) and less to do with the field since prior to that it was nothing but love between me and my G.D. But even with all the G.D. love in the air I can't help but have tinges of fear. The ever so natural yet incredibly annoying "what if's?"

Upside is, even if I don't get called or interviewed or offered the job, I had a good Monday today. Just the idea that I could return to something I loved so much and took so much pride in doing has lifted my spirits and helped the day zoom by. So maybe I'll just keep my eyes peeled for any potential Marketing/Graphic Design jobs since that seems to be the way I'm leaning.

And I guess Jenny is right, typing this out does make me feel better.

Walking away from the Computer Generated Light...

2005-01-19T11:10:00.000-08:00

I've been suffering lately, joyfully mind you, but suffering none the less. Well not me per se but my life. My little life has been abandoned and given up on for the life of another. Sounds like a gracious, giving sort of thing, but trust me it isn't. It's WoW or World of Warcraft. My lil gnome's life quickly became more important than my own and I let things like laundry, blogging, and breathing (had it not been for my persistent lungs) go by the way side. But just as spring is blooming slowly and quietly outside my window, my own life is start to awaken from its own cold winter and demand priority. So it is with some sadness and regret that I step away from my sweet lil gnome with the cute impish smile and beehive hairdo. "Sorry Audie, I have another character I have to play for a while...namely myself."

So I might not be WoW'ing again for a bit cause I've got some mopping, litter box cleaning, and living to do. But I'm pretty sure Audie will be right where I left her when I once again step into the glow of our new flat panel.

Novel Idea for God

2005-01-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

Today like most days I received an email telling me how the government is slowly whittling God from our history, future, etc. And how I should be apalled and take action and not let our history be changed by some evil God hating polictian. And in most cases I agree but will rarely ever take action because personally in all the things I could do in the name of our creator, making sure he gets referenced on a monument isn't first on my list.

Instead I'd rather send those people who email me a response: Instead of restoring our history and adding all our historical biblical references back. Why not use that time, thought, and desire and DO SOMETHING that shows the love of God today! Why not say, oppose bombing another country because someone told us to? or try and raise awareness/support of those in need in your community? or perhaps even give your neighbor a friendly smile and ask how they're doing?

Let's face it we can fight over lots of stupid, unimportant stuff in the name of my God or your God. But maybe we should put down our guns, brutal words, and hatred and just DO something to honor God. Let this religious zeal shine through you instead of deflect it into a hopeless email that will only sit in my e-trash can until I empty it three months later. If you really care for Him (whoever He/She is?) then do something to honor him that would actually benefit someone else and then instead of worrying about preserving history you're actually improving the future. Novel idea, no?

The Truth Doesn't Need Much

2005-01-11T15:52:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've been run over with the use of words that are too large, too ackward, and too unnecessary. I realize that it's the norm in the world of academia but sometimes, like on Monday at the copier, I find myself longing for simple phrases and just one word phrases. Even though I jabber jaw most of the time I do secretly covet those who can just say "nice" and have it hold an aire of mystery about it. I mean the typical cool guy is the one who doesn't say much but when he says anything even it's just a simple grunt, the world seems to slow down and take notice. So why then do we flounder about trying to impress others with words that are just too big?

But all I can figure is that maybe the old addage "you are what you eat" isn't nearly as true as "you are what you say." If you use large words when necessary you're smart, nice, and not full of yourself. And if you don't you're the opposite. And if you use too many, like myself, you're just a jabber jaw.

Either way...hearing support described as "robust" just made me start to think.

In the office but not at work...

2005-01-06T16:11:00.000-08:00

Goofy 3
Originally uploaded by mrsjack.

So I "could" go home a whole hour early today but alas my carpooling husband is actually "working." *sigh*

There's something incredibly, horribly worse about being at work when you don't have to be instead of being at home in your comfy pj's playing world of warcraft and getting your addiction on.

Alas, I'm stuck inside these 4 walls until 5 o'clock. So yeah, my current facial expression is rather close to the one seen here. WoW, I'm on my way. *sniff*

Make me smile:

2005-01-05T10:20:00.000-08:00

I love all the glasses mingling together, it's like each one represents a different person and while they look different on the outside, what's on the inside is the same.

I love going to dinner with friends and seeing the different glasses mingle together on the table: it makes me smile and think of all the different lovely friends I have.

Hello Again..Have We Met?

2005-01-05T10:00:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged in a terribly long time. The holidays took their toll and my blog went by the wayside. I apologize for my lack of contributions. Maybe I should make blogging each day a NY resolution. Might as well since I didn't make any others. I just didn't feel the need. Unlike previous years where I've vowed "to get in shape, lose weight, be nicer..etc..etc," this year I've just decided not to waste the valuable mental capacity and time making the commitment and rather just do my best. That way if I don't quite make my goal it's not like I had one to make in the first place. So yes, 2005 will be the year I become a svelte, curvy goddess and learn how to tell the truth in a manner less abrasive and try to be the best me I can everyday but if at the end of the year I'm still a chubby princess who's words rub people the wrong way just like sand paper then *shrug*. There's always '06!

But I am happy to say that there's something about this year that actually has me feeling vitalized. I'm ready to take on the year and make the most of the time I've got before the next NYE party.

So here's to doing my best and not fretting about looming obligations!

*clink* *clink*

I hate humanity and other Christmas sentiments...

2004-12-17T15:14:00.000-08:00

mailboxes
Originally uploaded by mrsjack.

Yesterday, I had to pop online to see if Netflix had received my movies that I mailed back to them on Monday. Of course I knew they hadn't since I'd passed their torn open contents strewn up and down the sidewalk on my way back to my house BUT I WAS HOPING I was wrong. Alas, I wasn't. Why is when I WANT to be wrong, I never am.

So I firmly state I HATE HUMANITY! I hate someone who thinks geez I think I'll take those Netflix envelopes from that mailbox. Cause who, besides me, would enjoy watching a gay German art house flik, a Japanese hentai anime, and a British hairstyling movie? So I take meager pleasure in knowing that whoever did nab my Netflix movies and then littered the street with their remains will NOT be enjoying the fruit of their devious endeavors. ha HA!

So yeah today I'm wrapping goodies and presents for this family in need at work and I can't help but think, mr.jack and I ARE in need. I mean we're eating freaking ham sandwiches for the rest of month?? So I can't help but wonder if maybe I should chuck my job, my aspirations, and just start stealing, begging, and hoping for help. Cause at least then I can hate humanity for NOT helping me instead of hurting me.

Alas, it seems my love/hate relationship with humanity will forever float back and forth on the fence. Sometimes it's like the honeymoon stage and we can't get enough of each other and other times it's like we're in a loveless marriage that is broken beyond repair. So humanity, don't piss me off, cause I SERIOUSLY want to love you.

Stuffed Mammal

2004-12-16T14:31:00.000-08:00

Had our holiday office lunch today and i'm stuffed. When I can't figure out what to order I sometimes just guess and this time I didn't choose wisely. I had some paper thin noodle thing floating around in between slivers of cheese, hunks of chard, and chucks of squash. Seperately I enjoy them all but together I just couldn't muster the desire to chow down. So being the southern OCD girl I am I got a doggie bag, BECAUSE heaven forbid I suggest that I'm not in LOVE with whatever the frou frou restaurant serves me, that'd just be too honest...and therefore too embarrasing. So all of a sudden I think maybe if I surround myself with foods I loathe I'll end up losing mega-pounds and be a wisp woman in the very soon future. Course then just as my plan was taking hold in my brain, the dessert menu was placed down before me and I sucumbed to the delight of UBER-RICH chocolate brownie complete with caramel ice cream. IT WAS HEAVENLY and filled me up with caffinated joy and love so that now I'm on the point of bursting and feel like taking a very long nap. Course I couldn't finish it either but dreaded the idea of carting around TWO doggie bags (what would the people think?) so I left it there and gobbled up the remaining ice cream and then waddled back to the office to my chair, to sit my newly rounded behind in my relatively comfy chair until I can go home and sleep off this brownie-enduced haze. I am one stuffed mammal.

Look Inward Much?

2004-12-14T13:00:00.000-08:00

I have been reading my last few posts and realize I've been quite introspective lately. Funny, since I was consoling someone else who was making a relationship decision that there's something about the holidays that makes us Frued.

Sometimes I think I tell everyone else what I'm supposed to hear.

Leaves are falling just like snowflakes...

2004-12-14T11:45:00.000-08:00

Right outside my window, there was a fierce storm of bright yellow leaves falling down from an already bare tree and I couldn't help but think..that's my snowfall. Sacramento doesn't see snow though to the east in Reno and Tahoe I hear people are skiing, snowboarding, and building snowmen, women, and children. However even with that knowledge I rarely make the trip to see it. There's just something about going away from home to get that homey Christmas feeling that just isn't right. So true I'll get drippy raindrops and yellow leaves instead of pure white snow but somehow I like it that way. Cause my Christmas isn't going to look like anything in the magazine and that's what makes it special.

So here I sit with my jacket on with cold fingers cause I refuse to close my window and enjoy yet another lovely little pattering of 'snow' and I can't help but think how it's so quirky and beautiful. It's just perfect for me, like Nutcracker ballerinas with hot pink mohawks and lime green tutus. Cause even though a traditional Christmas scene is only an hour away I still prefer my non-white Christmas complete with yellow leaves and lime green tutus.

Dashing through SF

2004-12-13T10:26:00.000-08:00

Saturday, a rather large group of us got together to sing holiday carols to all those busy shoppers and city folk in SF. While the plans were sometimes sketchy we did indeed sing some songs, mumble some words, and make those we passed by smile. Mission Accomplished! I also learned that I have forgotten some of if not a good portion of the words of "Jingle Bells."

While in the city, we shopped in Japantown, visited Tiffany's (Louie's a YEAR OLD!), Williams-Sonoma, and checked out some various SF happenings. Such as the million Santa march that came like droves of locusts upon the Square. It was amazing to watch and I got quite a few pictures of them as they stopped traffic and 'ho ho ho'd' there way to a nearby bar. We also participated in a closing segment for some morning show that was filming in the square. What a busy day! With all this commotion it's a wonder we got any carroling done. But I'm glad we went and I'd do it again NEXT YEAR!

Sunday, mr.jack and I were wiped. So once again we VOWED not to make any plans for the upcoming weekend and just enjoy being us for awhile. We'll see how well I stick to that one. I'm notorious for signing up for everything and anything! Hopefully, tonight we'll get a tree, get it decorated, and get some laundry together to wash. But if we don't we can always procrastinate until the next day!

P.S. I think I might have upset the gods of all those who wear poop brown uniforms and deliver packages. I shall let you know.

Sometimes too far seems to be my only destination

2004-12-10T09:31:00.000-08:00

Billy Joel said it best.."Why do I always go to extremes?" back in the 80's, a decade of extremity to the extreme. Heck I even think "to the extreme" was a popular catch phrase back then, course I could be wrong. I was just a wee babe for half of the 10 year ME generation festival.

But I digress, my insurance went up $1200 dollars much to my disgust. So I've been not so silently fuming about it to mr.jack. I even called his car insurance people to get a quote that was much more than my new inflated one. So I just talked and talked about why oh why was my insurance going to be so very high. Mr.jack as usual was solid and firm with the "there is nothing you can do about it tonight so call them in the morning." So I did and it turns out I'm paying more for an accident I had, BIG SURPRISE. But because I'm now a MRS. my insurance went down signifigantly. WOOT! So instead of $1200 dollars extra I'm only going to pay $24 dollars more. *sigh* What a relief!

So now that this major panic has past I can't help but wonder why do I have to get some extremely jittery and nervous about it? Why can't I just take mr.jack's solid advice and wait until tomorrow when I'm sure to get the answer from an insurance phone jockey on the East Coast? I'm starting to notice a pattern in my life that I swing from one extreme to another and I can't help but wonder why? I mean sure my life is pretty exciting with it's course of high highs and low lows but what about enjoy some midwest flatness? (This from the girl who left the midwest for more scenic, high adventure country.) I suppose even my choice of moving to CA could be viewed as trading in the mundane and safe for the more scary and possibly rewarding. So maybe it's not so much that "going too far, too high, or too low" is my only destination maybe it's that it's the only map I trust.

Either way I appreciate having a sage like mr.jack for a guide who reminds me not to lose my stomach in preparation for the next big hill. I certainly couldn't take on this ride by myself.

Going to get my Hanukkah On

2004-12-08T11:07:00.000-08:00

hanukkah ~ and menorah is lit
Originally uploaded by striatic.

Every year I say I'm going to celebrate hannukah and I never do. So I VOW to buy a hannukah menorah this year on CLEARANCE and celebrate the festival of lights with all my jewish friends next year! Also I VOW to get some jewish friends by next year or at least try to, I don't think forcing people to be my friend because of their religious beliefs would be a good "in" with the faith.

Sneaky Hobo...

2004-12-06T09:48:00.000-08:00

So I stayed up a bit too late playing WoW last night (WOO HOO Audie's a lvl 24!!) and therefore wasn't too eager to get out of bed this morning. So I asked mr.jack to take on a few of my morning chores, namely feeding the kitties and making myself three pieces of wheat toast. Well the kitties got fed but the toast just didn't happen. I figured it was a casualty of not getting up but mr.jack wasn't satisfied with the idea of sending his wife off to face work without proper nutrition. So he stopped off at McD's so I could get a breakfast happy meal. Mmm! That sausage biscuit was soo good as was the milk and apples. Very tasty! But the best part, you ask? Getting away with wearing crumbs on my shirt to work. Evil I am, no? Course then I realized that crumbs don't exactly equally attractive or professional so I brushed them off. But ooh that 5-seconds of crumb debauchery sure felt good. ;)

Girls who just want to have fun...

2004-12-06T09:32:00.000-08:00

Sunday, mr.jack and I attended Jenny's Christmas party. There was a nice mix of people I knew and people I didn't along with yummy sugar cookies. (I ATE SOO MANY! Even the wonky colored ones that Chris made.) I had a cold this weekend (what a way to start the holiday season, no?) so I wasn't exactly at my best but I'm glad that I sucked it up and went. We had a great time! I played Settlers of Catan for the first time, watched mr.jack kick butt at Halo2, and sang karaoke. Now, I'm not the best singer in the world. I wish I was but I've come to face the cold reality that I just won't be as good as Sheena E. or Pat Benetar. But after growing up as a dork and losing valuable self esteem points during times of endless ridicule, aka elementary school, I've learned that sometimes in order to have a good time you have to put your cojones out here and give it you best shot. (Right Pat?) So mr.jack and I kicked it off with a stirring rendition of "California Dreamin'" duet style. It wasn't very good, even in the most generous of terms, but it started everyone else down the path of sober karaoke. So I learned a valuable lesson, for every good party there must be ONE or TWO sacraficial lambs in the name of Karaoke. So should your party be lacking in doofs who'll risk their pride for your guest's entertainment, give us a ring.

P.S. Jenny has a seriously nice set of pipes.

Haute or Hobo...the update

2004-12-02T09:15:00.000-08:00

Well my fashion council, mr.jack, informed that I was leaning a bit closer to the "hobo" end of the scale this morning and even picked out a new sweater for me. So now I have to wonder...before I blogged about it..how many times did I wear something that embarrassed him? And then the thought pops in my head that I JUST got fashion advice from a man who proudly wore a brown/orange/light blue monstrosity from Old Navy that was $1.98. I need a VOGUE STAT!!

Right Hand Woah-man*

2004-12-01T11:20:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling like quite the "woah-man" this morning! Not only did I get up late but I managed to get dressed in a relatively cute outfit (I received a compliment for it..not bad, no?), feed the kitties their multiple chow (wet and dry), make myself breakfast, make a cute hairdo that has that messy intentional look, and load up my digi cam for some much needed snapshot taking throughout the day. But it gets better, OH YES! I even managed to load the fully charged battery while holding my breakfast and putting on my coat. MULTITASKERS EVERYWHERE, MEET YOUR QUEEN!..er..PRINCESSS!! (Only cause I like the lesser title better)

* woah-man Pronunciation: 'wO-m&n, esp Southern 'wO- or 'w&-
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural wOAH·men
Etymology: Not Quite English, from mrs.jack
1 a : an adult female person who is kick ass b : (see mrs.jack's morning on 12-1-04 for living defintion)

Haute or Hobo?

2004-11-30T10:08:00.000-08:00

For the past two days I've been wearing layers of shirts and socks to keep warm. Something about this winter has got me chilled to the bone. So this morning, after powdering my nose, I checked out my bundled reflection in the mirror and I couldn't help but wonder "Did I achieve that highly esteemed haute layering look ala The Gap and SJParker or did I fall short and land in hobosville next to the train station?"

I haven't decided yet but I will say I'm no SJP, even if we DO have the same initials.

Grinch no more.

2004-11-29T09:49:00.000-08:00

Saturday, mr.jack and I visited our dear friends Chris and Jenny at her house. (Yes, she owns and yes, I'm jealous, but that's beside the point.) The reason for our post-Thanksgiving visit was to put together her Christmas tree. Jenny is quite the holiday aficionado and where Christmas is concerned she's zealous, which I think is quite necessary when your mother owns a Hallmark shop. Needless to say she’s got all those cool Hallmark ornaments that I love to look at and other Hallmark paraphernalia that’s cute, detailed, and practically emits happy light.

Configuring the tree was pretty quick and painless with Chris and me taking on most of it while Jenny and mr.jack made lunch in the kitchen. Befitting any Hallmark ad the tree was finished almost exactly the same time as the tree so we all sat down to eat together. By this point, I’m starting to even get a bit excited about the pending decorating. But what happened next made me feel just like the grinch after he experiences the joy of Who-ville and has his heart grow 2x bigger.

Let me clarify, I’m not a grinch about the holiday but after years of having “themes” for the holiday in OK, I’ve become jaded by the lack of sentimentality of it all. I enjoy the early days of having crappy paper ornaments and macaroni streamers mixed in with the nicer ornaments. When something I made in Mrs. Gerlt’s class in 3rd grade was just as important as something my mother bought in the store. This desire to embrace family instead of perfection has lead me to the farthest swing of the holiday pendulum where I’d just as well do nothing than give in, but Jenny redeemed from a life of Scrooge-ness.

It was something about the care that she gave to every ornament. Each one regardless of cost or her theme (a cute moon and stars thing) received the same care and devotion. Each cradled in wrapping paper and placed gently in a spot to rest before being deployed to the tree. She even remembered each ornament’s ancestry and shared lovely family stories about when she made this one or who she received this one from and in what year. I found that her tree while completed with store bought beauties was more like a photo album instead of a tree that held memories more precious than anything you could capture in a tear-jerking Hallmark ad. I was so touched by her care and love for everything I really wished that I was part of her tree and that I had some lovely contribution to add.

So I gleefully announce the holidays are here and I’ll embrace them whole-heartedly this year as I make mr.jack and I a lovely little tree and a lovely little holiday. My thanks to Jenny for giving me Christmas CPR, you have no idea how much I needed it.

You say Turkey I say No Thanks...

2004-11-25T10:43:00.000-08:00

claptongod
Originally uploaded by jonfobes.

"Clapton is God" might not be what most people think of when they contemplate Thanksgiving but for me it's a good reminder of the family that I'll be celebrating with this year.

Cameron, a huuuge Clapton afficiando, will be in attendance along with Janice, Roger, Debbie, Cynthia and Grandma. I've never been a big fan of the turkey holiday for several reasons 1) I don't like turkey, 2) I don't like eating ANYTHING off the bone, 3) I have asshole family who I spent the holiday with_every_year. When your definition of a good Thanksgiving consists of "no one threatening to kick someone else's ass" you know you might be a bit jaded.

But now as with everything in my life since I've moved to CA. Thanksgiving has new meaning. It means waking up with my husband, giving the kitties their T-day wet food, and bringing him breakfast in bed so that he'll wake up. I find that I like things more now that I'm out here. Everything is new, yes, but now everything is happier, shinier, and gives me more reasons to smile. Such as watching my brother-in-law gulp down how many bottles of Apple Cider or which one of my new aunts will mention shopping on Black Friday first?

So whether it's the same ole holiday or a holiday made new by family, enjoy yourself. Even if that means staying locked away from your family.

Blah is now a verifiable emotion

2004-11-24T19:26:00.000-08:00

Not much to report today. I played WoW for a while had the usual excellent time! Took a nap that went far too long and made a pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving tomorrow along with a cherry pie. I'm pleased to mention that my cherry pie has a lovely little criss cross pattern on top complete with sheep cut out. I'm thinking the sheep cut out might be my new calling card. Oh I also did the mess of dirty dishes from yesterday's pie extravaganza while jamming out to some 'Beautiful Garbage' from the iPod. And the requisite kitty pets.

Other than that not too much. Being at home with only felines for company can actually be quite boring. Not that I want to insult my feline oppressors but they just don't offer much in the way of stimulation and conversation. Except for the "meow" pets and "meow" food talk. And after they've been adequately petted and fed, not in the order, what's left?

Oh and I do indeed have a FAB-u-LOUS husband. I asked him to pick me up some pumpkin goo for the extra pie and a Diet Dr. Pepper (I CRAVE THEM!). And he did indeed bring both back but he also brought back a straw and a cup of ice because he knows that I LOOooOve my soda with ice and a straw. I'm so in love, with him, and Diet Dr. Pepper complete with straw and cup of ice.

Oh and we jiffy popped some popcorn. Quite the busy night at the Perla household, yes? No.

Why I'm not mrs.jack right now....

2004-11-23T23:24:00.000-08:00

WoW Audie
Originally uploaded by mrsjack.

cause I'm too busy "being" a gnome mage named Audie. Aren't I cute?