Is the Bunsen Burner Off ?!

The Move

2011-01-28T14:12:00.000-08:00

I may have posted before but The Move has really got me off the couch. I am addicted to Frisbie Golf, Bocce, and Gladiator. Gladiator duel has the added benefit of that it is an extreme workout, at least for me. I am on the silver battles and the oppenent is getting really good at blocking and I got to get creative. I can no longer bash them out of the ring either. I am breathing like I just ran a sprint afterwards, assuming I can remember what it was ever like to run.

I am on Gold on Frisbie and Bocce and it is getting tough. Good thing I am good at Bocce, I may never finish Frisbie. And the ping pong is impossible. The best I ever did was when I was actually sitting on the couch. We haven't gotten past bronze # 2. Volleyball is fun and is so is archery but these two really aggravate my arms and shoulder so I rarely play. The point is not only has the Playstation Move got me moving but I am going to try and take up Frisbie Golf and Bocce for real when the summer months hit. Their are several courses in my area and Bocce can be played everywhere.

A Walk in the Nut Orchard

2011-01-23T21:01:00.000-08:00

So I had a 45 minute walk in the living ranch nut orchard today. Wanted to do the whole loop including the river but as usual I ended up walking at dusk and had to cut the path short. This has been my second trip to the ranch and I realized today that nut orchards have a completely different smell than the evergreen temperate rain forests we have across most of the state. I like the smell of the nut orchard, not as much as i love my forests, but it is a nice smell. They also have interesting seeds that kinda look like very nobby caterpillars.

Part of the path goes through a small section of regular forest at least second growth if not old growth and I heard something I don't think I have heard since South Dakota. A loud hoot, hoot, hoot. Now not being up on my owls I couldn't tell you which kind but it was, but it was refreshing to hear a wild owl probably getting ready for his evening hunt. At least I hope it was a wild owl and the raptor center wasn't right next door.

Also another highlight of today earlier was a yummy Pinot Noir from local Sweet Cheeks and some oh so cute alpacas.

Is Fish Food, Yummy?

2011-01-18T01:47:00.000-08:00

So as i put a few extra flakes of food in the tank this evening to help fend off the cold for my fish and he swam eagerly to the top and with tail fluttering excitement, I wondered: "Is fish food yummy?" I mean he practically goes gaga. Or would he react the same regardless of taste and he's just programmed to be hungry? While I have sampled a milk bone and some cat food, I just don't think I am curious enough to give the fish flakes a try. I mean he's not gonna have the same taste buds as me anyway. Secondly, hmm, is he a she? :)

To DeJunk

2011-01-16T22:57:00.000-08:00

Have you seen "Hoarders"? This is a show which I can't really watch as it rings just a little too true, I am not there yet but well on the path. So according to my rough estimate of my finaces, I have a 6 month of reserve and a bit of free time. Therefor I am on a quest to dejunk/unpack. I hope to at least collate and (hmmm how should I say this) lighten up my surroundings. Gonna try the less is more. My roommate said a good quote: "make your room like all the cottages you like to visit so that being home is like being on vacation."

I now have a digital camara so I can take pictures of all the stuff that I have memories associated with but don't need to see everyday and I plan to pack in boxes and label for trips down memory lane. I have taken an early picture and I will keep you updated on the progress.

Shrek-a-Thon

2011-01-11T23:21:00.000-08:00

Since "Shrek Forever After" came out in late December, I have watched it about 8 times. I have also watched the whole series about four times through now. I just love the First and the Last. Most of my friends don't like Shrek, I don't know why. Sure some of the side characters are annoying but the main characters I love. Maybe it is the farting and burping. Sure the story lines aren't all that deep but it is just enjoyable and Eddie Murphy and Antonio are way funny.

I just love how it is about excepting yourself but trying to be the best you can be. Plus it just makes me laugh. Also the when he says in Forever After: "I got the chance to fall in love with you all over again" I just swoon. And Fiona just kicks some booty. And fat "Puss in Boots" is to die for.

If you haven't seen it, watch it.

December

2010-11-29T21:25:00.000-08:00

What am I doing this December. Having my tires and hood checked. In other words getting in as many doctor visits as I can before Insurance goes bye bye.

Only wrote in my journal, once very bad :(

Trying to enjoy my leisure time.

Thanksgiving was a fun shop-a-thon with Dad.

Excited that I get to start my advent calendar in two days. Yumm, chocalate.

a bit sleepless

2010-11-22T02:38:00.000-08:00

Too much on my buzzing mind. I know I got up to get a piece of paper and a pen to write something down but what was it.

Good day. Nice walk in some heavy snow flurries. Started a journal. Danced a bit to dance central. Stayed up to late.

In other age related news, I now need reading glasses and low res on my screen to see things.

lots of free time

2010-11-20T22:17:00.001-08:00

Time to unpack, time to blog, time to read, and time to work on fine-tuning the presentation of me. Open road of possibilities. Train ran off my track. I have found my self driving a little slower these days, nowhere to go.

Dad is coming down for Thanksgiving. Looking very forward to that. Gonna live vicariously through his ability to shop. Have Turkey hat and Turkey placemats. Bought some pretty flowers. Yummy take out.

Still here

2009-08-03T00:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe I rememered my password. Sorry Bloggers, I discovered facebook. Cool quote I learned this year: Beer is the curse of the drinking class.

Vegas Baby Vegas

2008-10-12T19:58:00.001-07:00

Well it's been a few years since I have been to sin city (4). Gone is the need ot pick someone up and party all night. Instead I want to eat at fancy restaurants and shop. Luckily Vegas is very accomodating.

New Experiences
THE hotel
VIP status at a club - maybe it had something to do with the $200 outfit
- $41 to the penny slots. Bought the time you figure them out its time to go.
Vegas is very Euro and International now thanks to the falling dollar.
Gone is Denny's for breakfast and the $3.99 buffet at the Boardwalk. But hey Harley Davidson now serves breakfast.
Friday the 13th on the a screen above the beach at Mandaly Bay. What's with the 45 degree weather though.
Dragon Hour Le Prixe menu China Grill - Six thumbs up.
Best View from Voodoo at the Rio not Mix from THE hotel.
Clear Shower and TV in the bathroom.
Bathtub for 2. Tsk, Tsk in the desert this seems a bit wasteful. I couldn't help myself I took two baths.
Cabbies taking the long way to rack up the fair. Tsk, tsk. Next time I'm giving directions.
The penquins are gone from the Flamingo but hey the have an Helmeted Guinea Fowl.
Chippendales better than Thunder Down Under but "The Men" was still the best.

Still the same:
Flamingo still has best champaign brunch.
Mandalay Bay Spa still awesome.

does anyone else?

2008-08-27T22:47:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else close there eyes when walking in the dark? I just feel safer and more in balance if my eyes are closed.

things you don't often see

2008-08-20T22:15:00.000-07:00

I watched tonight as my dog in near Euphoria approached my friends rat cage to get up close and personal. The shy rat, boldly approached her and then bit her on the nose. My dog was thourougly cowed (I have no idea how to spell that word) but she deserved it. Payback for all those pour dead animals that have gone there way due to my dogs natural instinct. At last count: one bunny, five possums, squirrel, and hamster.

On another note. I have a new hamster his name is Rex. He is the quietest hamster I have ever had. And yes the dog and cat are very interested as always.

I am alive

2008-08-10T23:55:00.000-07:00

Well I finally figured out how to log back in. Yes I am still alive and in Oregon. I am trying in the next two months to get a promotion. Perhaps I have not blogged because I don't have to worry about the bunsen burner being on since I am no longer in the lab, just the heater, the hair dryer, and other electrical appliances.

Let's see. Alot of nothing big has happened. Took up snowshoeing. Am heavier than I have ever been before (yes I am considering jeans with elastic waistband in the future). Met a few boys I liked. Moved somewhat to the country, yes, I am out of the industrial zone. Went to see Mt. St. Helen's. Way cool. Went dog sledding in bend. Even cooler!

Gave up cable. I know absolutely nothing about what's going on in the world. Just found out the olympics started two days ago. Still miss the midwest terribly! Well I guess that is enough to see if anyone stops by.

Miss you Bec an Sooz.

Pulling Blackberries

2007-05-24T22:08:00.000-07:00

Since I've been in Oregon, I have had an infected belly button, frozen shoulders, and an infected eye. Now add to the fact that I had to stop work for an hour today to blow my nose from allergies, you'd think I'd be pretty unhappy. But the sun was shining and even though I can't breathe, I got some good fun out of removing blackberry bushes from the wetland preserve. Nothing like some hard labor to make you feel like you've accomplished something when you finally get that bulbous root out. Pesky little buggers, thorny too. Even more appreciation for my favorite berry from the midwest, the mulberry. Just as pesky but not thorny.

Well I haven't posted in forever, and this may not be interesting, but at least it's a start.

tales from the industrial zone

2007-04-02T23:34:00.000-07:00

I was thinking of changing the address, of my blog. I'm no longer sleepless, nor in Urbana.
My current location is smak in the middle of the Dynea plant - they make formaldehyde based glue, Bricksford charcoal plant, Weyerhauser paper plant. and a 1/2 dozen wood based companies with piles of logs in their yards. I work at more or less a company where everthing is made out of chemicals and right next door is a computer chip facility. Isn't Oregon beautiful. In case you were wondering I actually do enjoy my job and my apartment aside from the location is super sweet! All my stuff actually fits and Puffer actually is loosing weight running up and down the stairs.

Other news of the day. Brian Anderson made the White Sox team as a defensive replacement and pinch hitter. He had one at bat and one hit on opening day today. Woo hoo!

The Tribune was bought by some guy and he wants to sell the Cubs. This should be good news for the Cubs.

Let the Brian Watch Begin

2007-03-12T19:21:00.000-07:00

Oh yes Baseball season has almost begun. Watch as I sit on pins and needles whether he makes the team this year! Luckily I'm too busy to worry for at least 8 hours a day. Lets see last year he made 10 times my salary but this year it is only 6-7 times my salary. Yeah me! Dad has promised that if he gets sent to the minors, we will go to NC to watch him play. And yes I know I am totally pathetic.

Switching subjects to other good looking men. Casino Royale comes out on DVD tomorrow.

well I'm here

2007-03-12T19:15:00.000-07:00

Sorry all four of my faithful. Rather than making one great post. I'll just start with nothing worthwhile but maybe eventually I'll get back into the swing of things.

Let's see: Like my new job. Really like my coworkers. Hence the big reason I like my new job.

Moving cross-country was way harder than I thought. I've already had two collection notices and what do you mean my insurance doesn't want to cover that emergency room visit. Oh gas company cancels ebill, doesn't send written bill because I have ebills, and then wonders why maybe I haven't paid them. Grrr.

While no tax sounds good in theory, I prefer street lights, road signs, and clearly marked driving lanes. In other words, don't try to drive at night in Oregon.

No I don't really enjoy the smell from the Weyerhauser paper company.

First I was sleepless in Urbana

2007-01-19T21:46:00.000-08:00

First I was sleepless in Urbana, then I was sneezing in Thomasboro, then I was homeless in Eugene, but now I am "Sitting by my Faux Fireplace in Springfield".

Well in case you were all wondering why I haven't been blogging, I got a job and moved. So now its even longer to go visit my friends over the pond, but hey I might actually have the money. Ergo thanks for the postcard by the way.

At first I didn't want to say anything because I didn't want to jinx it and then well in a month I was out here and started. Along the way we slipped on ice in Nebraska, had to buy chains in Wyoming, and skidded off the road in Oregon. Slow speed skid, kinda fun, high speed skid, not fun. Made Dad drive the rest of the way.

The good news is I don't have to check the Bunsen Burner anymore because I have a desk job. Though that still leaves the heater, the faux fireplace, and the oven to check.
Well more next time .....

Way to Go Kirstie!

2006-11-06T23:37:00.000-08:00

Kirstie Alley showed up in a bikini on Oprah today. She looked pretty good, espcially when you consider she is 55. Hell I wouldn't go out in a bikini anywhere right now. ANd congrats to her for quiting smoking and loosing 75 pounds. But the cool thing for me is now that I'm turning 35 I don't feel so old. For one thing Kirstie is 20 years older and looks great, so I suddenly feel like a spring chicken.

Classic 80s Graphics!

2006-10-27T17:24:00.000-07:00

For 10 years I've been asking my dad to find my ATARI 2600 and this week he has! Oddly enough I just saw a commerical for Playstation 3. This made me angry. AFter all, I went out and spent $200 dollars on a Playstation 2 after spending $150 on a playstation. SO I say no, I ain't gonna do it. No playstation 3 for me. I don't have time to even play #2. NOw back to the ATari, I can't wait to play PONG, Pacman, Space Invaders, and something I call Number Cruncher were you race against someone else gobbling up numbers flying at you! Maybe I can finallly find the Lost Ark from RAiders, cause when I was 12, I could just never do (I would go to the map room, wait for the sun to come up and show where the Ark is, take my shovel and dig, but no Ark. Arrrggghh! But wait I digress) There is just somthing about the simplicity and the huge blocky graphics that I just love. But don't get me wrong, I've also enjoyed making Lara Croft due handstands in Tomb RAider, blowing up a giant snake in Resident Evil, slaying vampires in Buffy! But sometimes you just gotta say when. No playstation 3, corse we'll see how long my will holds out after Nov. 7. I've already asked for a bowling ball for Xmas so perhaps I'm safe.

It's raining corn

2006-10-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

WEll per Lever's last comment here's the silos.

And due to the proximity of said silos, there are little corn corn kernal husk remnants constantly floating through the air and covering just about everything. I opened my car door today and a bunched wooshed into the interior. Ahh life in the cornbelt. The other day I actually thought it might be snowing, but nope just corn.

Sorry for the long absence of posts all three of you. I was waiting till I had good job news. No good job news, so I've been hiding from the world in my tiny but oh so comfortable apartment/cave.

Other exciting things. I just sliced open my thumb. I was standing there playing with a glass vial that one is supposed to break open with two hands. Note: I really shouldn't have been playing with it but if I had put it back in my pocket I was likely to forget about it again. Anyway I knew I was thinking of breaking it with one hand and realized this would probably be bad. However me telling myself not too, only lasted for about a minute. While moving two floors in the elevator I broke the vial with one hand and gouged my thumb. Oh well, least it didn't break in my pocket.

How I spent my Vacation

2006-08-23T22:54:00.000-07:00

Moved 10 miles North.
View from my living room windows: Large Grain Silos. Yes I actually like this. What I don't like is the fact that almost all the neighbors burn the garbage. Yuck!

Went to two White Sox Games. Oh Yes, Brian is cuter in person!!!!!!!! In fairness to all the White Sox they are all cool in person. And much skinnier too. The camera really does add alot of weight.

quik note

2006-07-07T17:31:00.000-07:00

I've been sick for about two weeks. I miss good health.

I found a new place to live and my landlord is real cute. I've never been able to say that before.

Tonight the White Sox play the Red Sox and I wish I had a guy in my life so I could borrow his ESPN. I'm to sick to go to a bar or stay at work. But if I had a man I could watch it at his place and take a nap when I needed to. Oh well maybe by the time I wake up the White Sox will have one.

I saw my Cousin this week. That was nice. We went bowling. I love bowling.

Saw the Mystechs. They were awesome. Sooz was awesome. I survived the drive to Springfield. There was one of those flash downpours that made me pull over on the interstate.

Think I am up to seven resumes. Though a certain company's web site is very very annoying.

Had a phone interview. That was nice.

Had an oppurtunity to possibly go see Brian at a luncheon today but I put my health over my infatuation and stayed here.

Made a new deal with myself. Every time the White Sox win I have to submit a resume, or find another job to apply to.

my plea was heard

2006-06-17T23:07:00.000-07:00

Just in case you were wondering, Brian was kept on the team (see below post). And he's been doing much better. Yeah! Go Sox!

Stay with Brian, My Plea to the White Sox

2006-06-09T01:35:00.000-07:00

Well since I haven't figured out how to be anonymous (nor can I spell it) on the White Sox Blog, I'll just have to do my cheer here. Stick with Anderson! He will eventually hit, send him to the minors if you must (confidence is key), but bring him back quickly. It won't matter if he can't hit, if some other veterans would start batting better. Do not go get another centerfielder, you're fine with your current back-ups. And for all the jerks booing Brian, I'm sending evil thoughts your way. What a great way to help someone who is struggling, boo him. Grrrr. I'd like to see you hit a 90 + fastball. Actually a fastball to the noggin might work better than those evil thoughts. I'll just go and work on my pitching arm.

it's completely ridiculous

2006-05-31T22:31:00.000-07:00

It's completely ridiculous that I care whether a barely 24 year old who makes 10 times as much as I do has a bad day/month/year at his job. If your wondering, 24 year old is a major league baseball player who almost was sent down to the minors. Good news is he isn't, so I no longer have to worry. Bad news, I'm pathetic, worrying about someone I don't even know, just because he's cute, who lets face it is kinda living on the easy side of the street. Oh why why am I not a guy and a professional sports person. I'd like to go out and just play games all day.

OK, you all can make fun of me now.

On the up side 4 resumes and counting.

It's a beautiful day

2006-05-29T16:08:00.000-07:00

It's a beautifiul day and I want to run, walk, skip, jump, swim, swing, dance, and do cartwheels. Now running that feeling will last all of 30 seconds, along with swimming. Big yuck there. I'd really like to do a cartwheel, only problem, can't. Never have been able to. Mother can't, I can't. And so endeth a very short cheerleading career. Oh well so I do pirouettes in the hall when no one's looking. Gonna go take the dog for a walk. HOpe everyone has a good day.

I've been tricked

2006-04-21T17:40:00.000-07:00

So I was participating in an excercise study where I was wearing an accelerometer and a pedometer.
I was amazed at all the miles I was walking, since I was walking 15 miles a day I thought they might have got my step a bit off. But I figured I must be burning alot of calories, so I was pretty much eating whatever I wanted. Lots and Lots and Lots of peanut butter chocolate cookies. Well turns out they had doubled my step on purpose to see the effect on my excercise motivation. Did it motivate me to excercise more, no, I assumed I was getting lots of excercise so why do more. But yes I ate everything! I can feel the pounds piling on. I think I'm gonna go take my $15 dollars and eat something! ;)

Sad day and Good day

2006-04-16T22:05:00.000-07:00

It was a sad day when I was skoping out the Sox players stats and I realized that I am substantially older than 21 of the players on the 25 man roster. When did professional sports people get so young? Oh well if Demi Moore can date Ashton, I can day dream about some cute 20 somethings.

I think I found a dress for my friends wedding. I found two blue dresses. One has gorgeus frabic and exentuates my curves. But even though I love the dress, I don't think I want to feel like a sex kitten at a wedding. So I'll probably go with the slightly less dressy one that shows my figure a little more modestly.

And hip hip hooray, Taxes are Done Man!

update

2006-04-13T16:47:00.000-07:00

My oh so exciting life has been:

Working on Cover letters and resume's.
Watching White Sox baseball.
Trying to move work projects forward.
Having a few drinks and trying to get a certain guy interested.
But mostly watching Baseball. I finished all seasons of Stargate available.

Thank goodness for sunglasses

2006-04-13T16:38:00.000-07:00

I like sunglasses. They allow you to stare at people you think are attractive without getting noticed. Let's just say I'm enjoying the warmer weather.

the pink panther

2006-02-20T17:56:00.000-08:00

Though not quite as funny as the originals, the STeve Martin remake had me spit/snort water all over myself. Everyone else in the theater was laughing also. So ignore the reviews, if you like the originals, go see the prequel/remake. And Jean Reno is the perfect straight man to Martin's Clouseau. The worst part of the movie: Beyonce !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

what have i been doing

2006-02-09T01:33:00.000-08:00

Been watching Stargate on DVD. Started with "Atlantis". Ran out of episodes, went into withdrawel. 7 or 8 seasons of SG1 to save the day! Go into withdrawel on the weekends when Netflix doesn't deliver on Suns and MOns.

Went wine tasting at the local vineyard. Umm, doesn't get much better than alcoholic raspberry juice. Only thin is when does one serve sparkling rapsberry flavored wine. I figure i'm going to have to have a fancy brunch.

happy thanksgiving

2005-11-24T12:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Turkey Day everyone! HOpe you have lots of good eats and pie. To our friends over the pond, happy Thursday!

I just saved a bunch of trees

2005-11-21T23:01:00.000-08:00

I just opted out of the annoying supposedly prescreened, prequalified credit offers. First of all, your almost never prequalified, there has been an exception "What's in your wallet?". For one thing you think Citi Financial would get a clue, I don't own a home! I would like to, but I don't, so stop sending me notices to give me 3000 dollars if I own a home. Oh and how bout the ones that send you notices for cards you already have, come on people. Can't they write better software.

the Weather Man

2005-11-20T00:01:00.000-08:00

Go see this movie. Nick Cage is awesome. Yes, parts are depressing, parts make your skin crawl, but he gets through it. Life doesn't always end up how you planned but that's OK. You will probably never please your parents, but they love and worry about you anyway.

well I'm back

2005-11-15T19:27:00.000-08:00

sorry to the lovely people who have actually visited my site and posted. I fell off the face of the earth here for a little while. I've been bad, I haven't even checked your sites. This weeks events. I'm 34. Eating yummy German food and seeing Harry Potter this weekend. Hopefully getting winter coat, 20 degree drop in weather tomorrow. Two wonderful weeks of being neighbor free, though they borrowed my pumpkin carving kit and have possibly thrown it in the trash! Corse maybe the fact that they seem to be throwing out there (my stuff) means they are moving. That would be so nice. Cats relatively healthy. Dog Good. Fish swimming.

Past stuff: Wrote new resume. Went to job fair. Spent two weeks picking out a coat. Two weeks of cats with diarrhea. Attended women and negotiating workshop. Attended women in chemistry potluck. Attempting to network. Aynyone know of any jobs for biochemists?

Well hope all is well in your worlds. Lots of love.

a very scary halloween

2005-11-02T17:13:00.000-08:00

I went suit shopping. I am now 15 lbs heavier than when I bought my last suit, so this halloween weekend. I tried on at least a dozen or more suits. I think I'd rather try on swimsuits. Least then I expect to look bad. There are alot of crappy suits out there. Or suits that look good on the hanger and just fail miserably on an actuall body.

I saw SAW II. It was good. Twisted but good!

I put on devil horns and wings on my devil Sadie (dog). It poured. No trick or treaters.

down with curses

2005-10-27T18:39:00.000-07:00

Yeah the Sox one! Yes, Yes, Yes! Two years in a row. First Red then White. Now no excuses. Get rid of the Goat curse (Cubs) and what will fans have to blame bad seasons on.

who's life sucks more

2005-10-17T18:26:00.000-07:00

Lately Ergo and I have conversations in which we try and convince each other that really the other's life is better. See both of us are unmarried and in our 30s. So we don't have any of those things we thought we'd have by the time you are 30. No house, no husband, not making the big bucks, no kids. It gos something like this: Me: At least you have a boyfriend. Her: At least you have a job. That's it, the arguement doesn't go on for long. So I thought I'd see what you all think? What's more important the relationship or the job?

today I

2005-10-06T18:43:00.000-07:00

Today I arrived at work wearing my shirt inside out. I did not discover this for awhile until I went into the bathroom. Maybe everyone thought I was setting a new trend. Anyway, sadly to say this is not the first time this has happened to me. Further fashion blunders I've committed: wearing two different shoes.

Tonight I'm going to go home and attempt to make crab cakes. My only complaint about restaurant crab cakes is they are often dry and you have to drown them in the sauce they hopefully provide. Hmmm, I have no sauce. This could be bad. Anyway I found a mix and I thought I'd give it a try.

i won

2005-10-05T16:45:00.000-07:00

apperently I won the last session of the movie quotes game. See link at right. Don't remeber how to do html. Anyway I don't even remeber playing. I must have put a few quotes in and then never went back. How weird. Yeah me.

runs screaming from the room

2005-10-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

so a few of you know that I am supposed to be applying for a new job. You might wonder why I don't. so I'll let you in on the thought process that went through my brain tonight as I tried to apply. "Wow this is perfect, wait I don't have the skills, Ok I have the skills, ack there is a deadline, Ok maybe I can make the deadline, they want a what?, what if no one writes me a good reference, do I have three references, what if I get there and it's not the perfect job, and then the perfect job comes but I'm stuck in this job for 2-3 years, and then I'm 40, and no one wants to higher me because they want someone who's 30 ... chest tightens, heart palpitates, what if there is a spelling mistake in my CV, stupid CV, stupid cover letter, stupid proposal, stupid job.

nice walk

2005-10-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

Had a nice walk with Sadie on Sunday. Went to the Prairie Conservation Area. All the weeds/wildflowers were in bloom. The only thing that marred the time was the constant sound of traffic on the interstate not so faraway. Got lost crossing the creek again. It's in a hollow and about 6 paths diverge off of it. I always seem to pick the wrong one. But a couple of loops and a back track and we finally found our way out of the park. Had to get home in time to see charmed.

it's finished

2005-09-30T22:44:00.000-07:00

Well I finished my One Tree Hill marathon. Even though he's married and 10 years younger Chad Michael Murray is just to die for. I'm very glad its over and I can get back to my life. Part of the fun of the show is the Dad is one of the most evil characters ever. Each season ends with a cliffhanger were he might possibly die, but I know he won't. There would be no conflict on the show without him.

Currently listening to Cold mountain soundtrack. It's awesome.

Looking forward to the upcoming holidays. Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. I just love the end of the year.

10 more things

2005-09-29T22:44:00.000-07:00

21. I can't role my tongue (yep I'm a genetic mutant).
22. I love soap. If you ever need to get me a present and you're stuck for ideas, buy me fancy soap.
23. I got a splinter from digging BBs out of a log at youth camp. Why we were encouraged to do this I can't remeber, but maybe the camp was trying to save money. Got a trip to the doctor for that one.
24. I got grounded in ~ first grade. I went to a like a campfire's girl meeting with out telling my parents. I just didn't come home from school. They didn't know where I was till I called to be picked up.
25. I've always been a television fanatic. Mom used to make me give up TV for Lent. Giving up meat is much easier.
26. I didn't figure out how to blow bubbles with bubble gum until my freshman year of high school. Maybe I was disadvantaged because of the tongue thing.
27. The first album I bought was Kim Carnes " Mistaken Identity". For those of you not around in 1981 maybe you've heard of "Bette Davis Eyes".
28. My favorite book is "Pride and Prejudice".
29. "Twelf Night" is my favorite Shakespeare play. It is also the only one I've read without being forced.
30. Most days I don't brush my hair. Which can sometimes lead to some pretty interesting hairdos.

Seven Things Request

2005-09-21T22:10:00.000-07:00

Seven Things I Want To Do Before I Die
1.) learn a foreign language somewhat fluently.
2.) Be reasonbly debt free.
3.) Love someone who loves me. I loved, I've been loved, but ... sighs.
4.) retire to the country
5.) see a whole bunch of countries I haven't been too yet.
6.) talk to my mother more
7.) take my dad to Germany

Things I Can Do
1.) write a thesis
2.) love unconditionally
3.) spoil myself
4.) nothing
5.) sleep during the day
6.) see without glasses
7.) travel alone in a foreign country where I don't speak the language

Things I Cannot Do
1.) walk without bumping into things
2.) curl my tongue
3.) show up on time
4.) keep myself from crying if I'm upset
5.) go to bed early
6.) spellcheck
7.) travel without getting sick

Seven Things That Attract Me To The Opposite Sex
1.) His Hands
2.) Those diagonal lines at the waist. Women don't have that
3.) Neck Ties.
4.) Physical Strength
5.) Boxers
6.) Sheepishly acknowledges his Hoo Hoo Dilly
7.) Being able to fix things.

Seven Things I Say Most Often
1.) I love you. ... mostly to pets.
2.) F&*#ing, followed by any number of words
3.) I'm so tired
4.) I didn't sleep well.
5.) Hella
6.) Sorry I'm late
7.) I watched (movie, TV show).

Celebrity Crushes - breaking with tradition and listing more
1.) Kevin Kline
2.) Chad Michael Murray
3.) Matt Damon- embarrassing but I can't help it.
4.) Angelina Jolie - It used to be Sarah Michelle Gellar.
5.) James Marsters
6.) David Hyde Pierce
7.) Ewan McGregor
8.) Hugh Jackman
9.) Clint Eastwood
10.) Vin Diesal
11.) Chris Rock

fall TV or guess who I have a crush on?

2005-09-20T23:17:00.000-07:00

During August I couldn't wait till the fall season got here. Shows about ghosts, shows about aliens, 4 actors from Buffy have new series. Come September the bloom is gone. All the networks are dishing out the same show. Everyone has a crime show, a medical show, a medical investigation show, a lawyer show, thanks to Lost a maybe supernatural alien show but maybe not, oh and your oh so boring canned sitcom. Been watching "Prison BReak", but OK he has to get out this season or nobody will tune in, what are they going to do next season. The lead was in one episode of Buffy, turned into a sea monster. I made it through Buffy's Allyson Hannigan "How I met your mother" , will I tune in again Monday is slow, so perhaps. Haven't been able to make it through Buffy's David Boreanz, "Bones". Twice now have lost interest. Probably not going to watch Buffy's Nicholas Brandon "Kitchen Confidential" , though at least there are alot of cute guys on that one. The only new show I have so far enjoyed is, and yes it is on the WB, is "Supernatural", the stories are Ok but Jenson Ackles and Jared Padlecki, Ummm Ummm good. I almost made it through half a season of Gilmore Girls because of the latter. And the former made season II of Dark ANgel that much more enjoyable. And now they are on the same show!
But what really has been keeping me from watching TV. Yep TV on DVD, I'm not hooked on a new show for me. two years I resisted but I had to go watch a Disney flick, and now I have a super huge crush on a guy with 3 names. I'll let you guess who? One hint: he's on the WB.

dog butt gland

2005-09-14T20:18:00.000-07:00

The new news is my dog Sadie ruptured an anal gland. I did not know, pets have anal glands. Do we have anal glands? So lately I been a nursemaid to my pets. My evenings consist of feed dog special non fiber food, give antibiotic, wash butt. Syringe feed cat special food, IV fluids to cat, give cat vitamins. I remember when I had a life.

I've been sick

2005-09-03T16:10:00.000-07:00

sorry bloggers, I've been sick. And my modem and phone line are so slow. My plans for this weekend. Fold laundry, file papers, watch US Open, denote money to red cross, balance checkbook. Have a good Labor Day everyone.

On Friday we found out that the non-toxic ingredients in your standard packing cold pak are really really stinky! Think lots of bad fridge smell. Note to self, don't store fridge packs on top of fridge where they might get squeezed into the freezer and burst. Otherwise you get what is this stinky oozy liquid dribbling out from the bottom of the fridge.

A Michagan Wedding

2005-08-29T23:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend I drove to Michigan for a wedding. It felt very strange making the somewhat long drive without my dog but the potty breaks were much faster. I arrived in enough time to throw some makeup and the dress on, one of the few that I actually got to on time. There was a brief struggle to fit into the panty hose I brought since I've gained a good 10-15 pounds since the last time I bought pantyhose. But at last I found a pair. I decided screw the corset cause I'd only be ripping it off after an hour anyway. So onward I went with only control top pantyhose and special undies to hold my tummy in. I was very happy to find out that I still fit into the dress that I bought for my 10 year reunion which was 5 years ago. The bride was beautiful, the groom was dashing, the vows were lovely. I cried happily while bemoaning my own single fate. The reception was fun and even though the drinks were free, no one got unbelievably drunk. I got to catch up with old aquaitences/friends, got my groove thing on, and had one wonderful swing dance. Got to chat with a lovely british bloke who refered to his parents and mum and dad. Gosh, you just got love that accent.

A Day at the Met

2005-08-28T22:36:00.000-07:00

On Sat. (8-20) I finally arrived in Conneticut. I was sleepy due to some more dog walking, harry potter reading, and what is that dripping out of my car problem (air conditioning water) the night before. Sadie was ecstatic to finally be out of the car and to see B and Noel. Even though I was exhausted I figured I should and could soldier on so we went to the Met. It was way cool. I didn’t want to leave the Egyptian room, though I always feel bad looking at the mummies, I mean they were human beings once. They have a mostly complete shrine from Egypt. It was interesting to see the various grafitti from the 18-1900’s mixed in with hieroglyphics. In the pictures of the shrine while it was still in Egypt I noticed there was also paint grafitti but apparently that was removed before putting it on display. After that we went through the medieval room and then to the American Art room. I didn’t’ know we Americans had any art ;), but they have a whole gallery. A nice ecletic mix. After that we went up the roof garden. Which had a spectacular view of central park and Manhatten. Unfortunately it was just to hot to eat up there so we went to the cafeteria where I enjoyed a kids pasta meal and the worlds yummiest sunshine shortbread cookie. It definitely helps to have Noel around when ordering food (I can order a kids meal and pretend its for her). Even though I did actually share the contents of the kids meal with Noel, we did not finish it. After running around looking for the blue hippo (I was looking for a semi life size hippo, The biggest one they had, was about 7 inches) we left and took a short ramble into Central Park. They have this really cool kids playground next to the Met with like an Egyptian theme. Unfortunately it was closed and we did not get to go play. Have to remember that one next time I’m there.
However I did see my first (and only) NYC rat. Actually it was the first wild rat I have ever seen.

Notes from the Road

2005-08-21T11:04:00.000-07:00

Well I hopped in the car to drive to Conneticut to see B. (Hopes Lever isn't to jealous). Hop in the car is not really the right term. I didn't leave until 5 PM. First I couldn't find Cassie (cat) to taker her to the vet for kenneling. Then I decided it would be faster to wash Sadie's (dog) Kennel at the hotel, but upon removing her cooler pad. Let's just say that wasn't happening. It was so utterly disgusting. So after a day of cleaning the house and us we got into the car at 4:30 PM. Or so I thought. Somehow I was not really effieciently on the interstate until 5:30. Original plan was make it to Motel 6 in Akron. Which became Columbia, which after 4 hours of driving and only 4 hours of sleep the night before ended up being Richmond Indiana. That's OK, if I went to bed early I could make it up tomorrow. Right, wrong. Sadie was very disconcerted at being in a strange room. So she kept wining to go out. There was also a nice couple and a puppy. So we went out again, after a 20 minute walk. Good news, lots a quality play time with puppy. It wonderful when you see your dog so utterly totally happy. Go back to room, Sadie still not happy. Thinking maybe she has to go. Walk her again. Now it's Midnight. So much for going to be early. Get back in room. Going to read Harry Potter just for a minute. 1:30 AM I stop. Big ooops. Next morning , don't actually hit the road till 10:30 AM. Big time warp, cause I swear I got up at 9:15. 5 mins. later it is 11:30 cause I'm now in Eastern Time Zone. ... More later.

What book are you?

2005-08-17T00:21:00.000-07:00

You're The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe!

by C.S. Lewis

You were just looking for some decent clothes when everything changed
quite dramatically. For the better or for the worse, it is still hard to tell. Now it
seems like winter will never end and you feel cursed. Soon there will be an epic
struggle between two forces in your life and you are very concerned about a betrayal
that could turn the balance. If this makes it sound like you're re-enacting Christian
theological events, that may or may not be coincidence. When in doubt, put your trust
in zoo animals.

Take the Book Quiz
at the Blue Pyramid.

AND IF I answer that I'm not concise:

You're The Grapes of Wrath!

by John Steinbeck

You're mired in a deep depression that encompasses you and everyone
you know. You're trying to get out of the depression, but your idea of help is, in
itself, pretty sad. While some are convinced that this all has a deeper meaning, you're
really just dull and tedious. And utterly obsessed with dust. You really need to focus
on something other than dust. Your best moments center around turtles.

Take the Book Quiz
at the Blue Pyramid.

Gonna have to go with the first one. Thow I am giggling over the fact that I'm dull tedious and obsessed with dust :)

my brilliant plan backfired

2005-08-16T01:10:00.000-07:00

On Sunday night I need to get gas. Gas was 2.58 a gallon. So I thought that's it I'm only putting in $20 and its got to come down. Monday I'm driving by the stations and oops its now up to 2.78. Guess, I guessed wrong. Thank goodness I have a Prius.

Yummy German Food

2005-08-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

On Thurs and Friday, two more friends defended. On Friday we took the 45 minute trip to the german Restaurant. I love pounded fried pork. Ummm, umm, good. My dad asked, "wait you had schnitzel, how could it be pork?" Well the nice restaurant offers all their schnitzels as veal or pork. My Schnitzel had apples on it, yummy! I had a nice Tucher for a beverage. And potato pancakes and Spaetzle. Foundly remebers the cheese Spaetzle I had in Munich. The decor of the restaurant is one of a kind. Can you consume a meal while staring or being stared at buy a flattened mounted turkey or eagle? Yes the owner is quite into hunting. It makes for an interesting meal. There was a cute placard in the bathroom about peeing (pinkeln) etiquette but alas it was in German and I could only guess at some of the meanings.

yard sale fun

2005-08-10T18:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend S had a yard sale. I didn't manage to make it out of the house early enough on Saturday but she broke yard sale tradition by continuing to have one on Sunday. it was a delightful afternoon of making a whole 3 dollars for me. Maybe 40 for S on Sunday, she made lots on Saturday. We had a fan and a paper shredder. It was very relaxing, sitting there chatting with each other. In fact we almost had a living room set up going. S was very cordial and greeted anyone who came up. I'm not so nice. A rude event happened. S was selling a solved Rubiks cube. These two people came, played with it and messed it up, and didn't buy it. Jerks. I think they should have givin her money for ruining her Rubik's cube. Luckily another friend was gracious enough to buy it. At clean up time it turned very hot. It was unbearable. I tried to be a good friend and help pack up stuff. But I was never so glad to get in my air conditioned house.

Yay, my Cat Ate

2005-08-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

Cassie nibbled on a whole bunch of food last night. Never in large quantities but I think we are making progress. I also am getting pretty good at force feeding her. She doesn't run and hide afterwards, so thats good. I have almost tasted wet cat food through this process though. Apparently when your syringing it into your cats mouth, you some time get a ricochet effect were it lands on your own mouth. Good thing my mouth was closed.

Poor cat

2005-08-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well I haven't blogged in awhile. My 15 year old cat is very sick. And it has drained all the energy from me. She has an E. coli infection. The tough part is she won't eat. I'm exhuasted from racking my brain and running to the store to get her tasty things she might dine on, which she for the most part ignores. So after a week of being hospitalized at the vet, she's back home. We have our good hours and our bad hours. I'm now force feeding her with a syringe, so I can give her the medicine. I tried the large syringe that the vet gave me, that resulted in more food on her and the lazyboy then in her tummy. Instead the 1 ml syringe while time consuming seems to get more actually down.

one of those days

2005-07-22T19:40:00.000-07:00

Good thing: I got a bike for $10. It even functions, I rode it home. Is it pretty? No. Is it safe? HOpe so. Is it rusty? Yep.

Frustrating thing: Went to glass shop to pick up glassware. Sign said be back at 3 PM. Mulled around for 15 mins.

Another frustrating thing: Went to get candy bar. Sign said be back in 5 minutes, not likely. Went to snack machine to get candy bar. Machine would not take dollar. Stuck dollar in coke machine. Wouldn't give me change. So after 15 mins of trying to get a candy bar I ended up with a coke. Then I got so busy I forgot I was hungry.

Good thing: "Love at First Bite" arrived today.

what's your vice? Mine is ...

2005-07-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

Movies and TV. When I thought I had money, I would buy at least one movie a month or (Television show season). In an effort to get out of the financial hell hole I've dug, I wake up everyday saying I will not buy a movie this month (a month is the time in between each payday). I've made it 4 days, so far so good. Last night I implemented the lets go to the library and get movies for free plan. I got a documentary on Beavers, Electricity, and the movie Dummy. Yeah me! However I should mention I've already broke the no renting from Blockbuster this month rule. I broke down I just had to have the last disc of "Dead Like Me" Season 1: Disc 4. Bad Me :( However they have taken away my rewards, I use to get a free rental with every rental. Now I don't. This is enough, to discourage my patronage. Corse if it wasn't for Netflix I would still be renting a gazillion movies and I would still have the rewards, and wouldn't be peeved at them. I'm anxiously awaiting "love at first bite" (see previous post) and Dead Like Me season 2 to come whizzing to my mailbox. Darn apperently everyone else also wants to watch Dead Like Me season 2 (just checked Netlfix -long wait), repeat "must not go to Blockbuster".

I'm interested to here what my fellow bloggers vices are, S: I'm guessing is music, possibly books. B: I don't think you have any vices, you have a will of iron.

Cheesy Dracula flicks and Drive Ins

2005-07-15T18:01:00.000-07:00

One of the first movies I remember going to see is out on DVD. I'm so excited! I can't wait to see it. The very campy 1979 "Love at first bite". I remeber we saw it at the Drive In. Which was very cool because I would have been 7 and very ancy so I was able to move around and go play on the swings. Not having to stay in your seat and be quiet was a big plus back then. I absolutely love drive ins. But is it because it's a quality veiwing experience or a great childhood memory. Hmmm? I do like the huge screen. But alas usually I have forgotten to clean the windshield and so that makes the picture blurry and I usually end up seeing the movie twice. It is great for people with kids though. I'm very glad I live in a place that has a Drive In still. The last movie I saw at the drive in was Shrek 2 with BBFK and Noel. If I go see Willy Wonka and the chocolate factory I think I'll go the drive in. However from the trailer Jonny Depp is acting weird and not in the fun Gene Wilder way. One day when I'm independently wealthy after opening the animal refuge I'll work on restoring Drive Ins throughout the country. But perhaps I won't have to because it will already be done.

synopsis

2005-07-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

Well I can't think of anything neat and witty to say. So I'll just recount some facts.

Found new TV show I like: Dead Like Me.
Found lake in town didn't know was there.
Had nice wine at S's party. Good cheese too. Oh and carrot cake with frosting carrots on top.
Have tire that has a leak.
Finally got my IRS state refund. Giving a little I'm in the money dance. (can now fix tire)
Had two sleepless nights.
Watched the All STar game (baseball). It's pretty sad when cute professional athletes are begining to get to young for me.
Dog only walked once due to inclement weather and health.
Defrosted Freezer at work.
Cursed at work (may or may not have involved freezer, actually think it was chemical room that brought on Terets).
Read friends' blogs desperate for info.
Clicked on brother's blog, still no posts.
Must run to watch "Beauty and the Geek"

problem with scooters

2005-07-08T17:32:00.000-07:00

So its hot. Not as hot as last week where it was high 90s. but still comfortably warm. This means I get to ride my yamaha black and purple scooter with my white CHiPs style hat. Oh so stylin. Anyway riding the scooter is fun. I don't have to get in a hot car and nearly pass out. Gosh do I miss garages or tree covered parking. though sometimes its an adventure to ride the scooter if there is a sudden down pour or a strong wind. The one problem is traffic lights. Me + scooter does not equal enough weight to trip the traffic light. Hence, I sometimes have to wait patiently and pray that another car will pull up, to trip the light. If its late at night and there are no cars, I have to sometimes live on the wild side, and proceed against the traffic signal. Don't worry Dad I check all ways before proceeding.

Finding Neverland was Awesome!

2005-07-07T12:50:00.000-07:00

Wow what a movie. Johnny Depp was at his best. I thought he did the accent great. However I'll let our UK friends way in on that one. The imaginary scenes were just beautiful and I loved how they blended them with reality. My favorites scenes were "dancing with Porthos the bear" and "the pirate ship". Kate Winslet was good too. Two thumbs way up! Everyone should see this movie.

one to remeber

2005-07-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

Imagine two thirtysomething girls huddled under blankets occasionally putting up umbrellas and then taking them down and then putting them up over and over again. Then pretty decent rain, and then oh joy. Loud bright explosions of fourth of July fun! Yes after an hour delay and somewhat high winds, asking of the crowd to move back, the city fireworks began. Actually I figure the rain saved the show, because it insured that most of the fireworks would be out by the time they hit the crowd. The picture was taken with my phone as I dashed it out from under the umbrella. There were a couple of new fireworks. I don't know how they did it, but one actually had the formation of a star. The other new way cool one resembled a bunch of angry swarming white insects as they zigzagged across the sky!

They actually had new music this year. Pretty good except for a horrible sythesized rendition of Gershwin. Also a song about the "unknown soldier" was quite sad. There was one song I particulary liked, but alas, S pointed out its used in the "Beef, its what for dinner commercials" so I had that phrase stuck in my head the rest of the night. At the end we were wiping a lot of soot off our faces and I only said ouch once when I got hit. Otherwise I was able to dodge the debris. The display, thanks to the wind, was right over our heads. So occasionally we had to crane our necks back to get the whole view. I think I had the more comfortable view because I was in a lawn chair and had a head rest.

While we were waiting before the show, a little girl kept pretending to give S popcorn, but would yank it away at the last minute. She was also very fascinated with my phone. I decided to put it away so her parents could stop chasing after her.

For S's post on the show see: Thingstodo

My Ducks - Memory Lane

2005-07-03T18:33:00.000-07:00

My 5th birthday present was a female mallard, I named "Happy". Shortly after we got her a mate, I named him "Junior". They had about 3 successful broods. It's funny how pictures can show something you don't remember. I can't recall the lawn ever looking so unkempt (though it doesn't look so bad on the small version). Props to my dad for restoring the photo so nicely. You can actually see the flowers on the baby pool.

restored

original

Firework Fracas

2005-07-02T16:38:00.000-07:00

So the little Amish town of Arthur is spending a whole bunch of money to put on one big fireworks display tonight. Slight problem: They're fireworks guy was arrested this week for fireworks insurance fraud. They're going on with the show, he's out on bail. Here's the kicker, apparently the fraud was done last year between Jan and July 2004. Now this seems fishy that they are just getting around to arresting him a week before July 4th, 2005. I can only hope that this time he really does have insurance, and he wants to do a good job, so that good people of Arthur haven't wasted alot of money. And I hope that he does actually know what he is doing.

Fun with Fridge Assembly

2005-06-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

Today I assembled a fridge (refrigerator). There is something so rewarding and satisfying about putting appliances together or taking them out of the box and pluging them in and they work. I do not often get this feeling in science. They have parts and the parts all go together and they are new and shiny! I was a bit flumoxed for a bit because it appeared a piece was missing. But as I was taking the packing list and highlighting which parts we had received (this procedure was done after I had put the fridge together, however the directions say to do this first), it said there were six brakets. I remembered unpacking six brackets, but when I opened the door there were only four. So I looked back to where I had unpackaged the brackets and there sitting on top of a computer was the assembled brackets and bar. Ahh Success!
Now if I could just figure out how to remove the ice maker?!

More Things

2005-06-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

16. I've played the piano, flute, oboe, bassoon, french horn (very very briefly).
17. I've always wanted to learn the cello.
18. The only trophy I've ever won was for a basketball shootout at age 12, were I didn't make one basket. I got second place because only two people showed up in my age group. Yeah me!
19. I plan to run a dog kennel when I retire.
20. When I first learned to swim at 5, the life jacket (big and orange) kept tipping me backwards dunking my head underwater. Luckily my parents got me a cool yellow water ski belt, and the problem was solved.

Oops thinking out loud or Nice Arms

2005-06-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

A new Sigma rep stopped by the lab the other day, and he was probably a body builder type, because he had the largest arms I've ever seen in person. Now being a bit hormonal, I actually blurted out "WOW" as he was introduced. Now if I had followed with "Nice Arms" I think it would have been less awkward, but I went into "Hi how you doing mode". I actually was thinking, "Damn, those are huge arms, bet they'd look nice rapped around me". Now I'm not really into big beefy guy types but this guy was pretty cute.

Fireflies are cool!

2005-06-23T01:00:00.000-07:00

So I've been devoting a half hour between 2 and 3 am to watch the fireflies in my barkyard. Thanks to a small wood in the backyard they are quite prolific. It's like Christmas. I never knew they like woods, I thought they were mostly grass bugs. I also wonder how these little guys got their light up butts in the first place. With the cool breeze and the twinkling lights I twist in my bed to get the best view, though eventually I have to resume normal position and go to sleep.

A Few More Things About Me (This time I couldn't come up with 10)

2005-06-20T01:44:00.000-07:00

11. I started my house on fire in high school. The yard/pool light had fallen over on the roof (wooden shingles) of which anyone had neglected to tell me. When I tried to turn the light on, it only got a tad brighter outside, I couldn't figure out was wrong. I flipped the switch a couple of times trying to determine which was off. I picked the wrong one. Light was on. About 30-60 minutes later, it got much brighter outside (due to the roof being on fire). Luckily a volunteer fire fighter was a neighbor and arrived very quickly, jumped on the roof with our garden hose, and we ended up with only medium size hole in the roof. The kicker, it was my parents anniversary. Ooopps.
12. I played a young boy in a college play in 6th grade. This was the first time I received a dozen roses.
13. Sad to say I spent a 100 dollars on fireworks last year of which we couldn't light half off because of the wind. The 1/2 we did light off were really cool though!
14. My favorite sitcom is "Frasier". Though I prefer the shows not about Frasier. He can get whiney and repetitive.
15. Being from South Dakota, I got my driver's license at 14. I passed drivers ed, but only because I got an A on the book learning.

Calling those with Egos, Kids, or Pets

2005-06-19T02:00:00.000-07:00

The post office has make your own stamps. How cool is that! Yes that means friends and family are bound to end up with stamps of my pets. Perhaps some of my travel. Check out: www.photostamps.com

wildlife prarie park picts

2005-06-16T01:23:00.000-07:00

A few photos from our trip:

Alvin, Simon, Theodore, Chip, or Dale?

These guys were oh so cute!

Oh, Home on the Range, Where the deer and the antelope play, and the buffalo roam

This poor bobcat was stalking a blue bird. It didn't get it, and then went to circling its territory afterwards.

10 Things You Might Not Know About Me ( will I get to 100?)

2005-06-15T23:49:00.000-07:00

1. I am ambidextrous in batting and to lesser extent Tennis and Raquetball.
2. Grew up In South Dakota. Great Place!
3. I was a devoted Buffy fan. I have every episode on tape. My first website was about Buffy.
4. I love to travel and am happiest on vacation. I've been to France, Germany, Geneva, Tijuana (can't really say you've been to Mexico if you live in California and you only go for one day), Canada (though just Niagara Falls, so not sure if that counts), and Japan.
5. My 5th birthday present was a duck, and is still one of my favorite animals. I can't wait till I own a place and can have one again.
6. One of the things I regret: I had a pony who liked to chase cattle and of corse the first time I decided to ride by myself (age ~ 7) was in the cattle yard. So horse took off, I fell off, did not ride by myself till I was 12. Did not ride again till College.
7. I've been to Oktoberfest In Munich.
8. I am a mild hypochondriac and have mild OCD when it comes to washing my hands and worrying whether I'm going to burn the house or the lab down.
9. I love to ski.
10. I knew a professional beach volleyball player.

I belong in Australia

2005-06-11T17:46:00.000-07:00

I took the what English Speaking country do you Belong in Quiz. I really thought I'd come out on the side of America, since I like Pizza and baseball. Question: Which country would say ABsobloodylutely? Who the heck is Franz Ferdinand?

You Belong in Australia

Ace!

Sunny, upbeat, and cute

You make the perfect surf bum

Now stop hogging the vegemite!

What English Speaking Country Do You Belong In?

http://www.blogthings.com/englishspeakingcountryquiz/

thank the lord my power bill is down

2005-06-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

My power bill is only $60 this month. I jump for joy. Since November it has been between $120-200. Stupid drafty old house. Of corse now we're at the interesting time of year when its hot in the house but cooler outside at night. Why is just so gosh darn hard to get that cool air inside. Well luckily I put my el cheapo box fan in the window last night and that did the trick, but I'm so darn lazy I didn't move it to the bedroom. So I opened the window and and turned on the air conditioner fan. Not as effective. But luckily I like it nice and toasty. However tonight I think I'll actually just move it. Of corse I could just go buy another box fan. Hmmm lets see which takes more effort. Ok I've decided. just move it. Burns more calories anyway.

Speaking of burning calories. I've been doing all the those things that are supposed to make you loose weight. Eat smaller portions. Eat more often. Walk further. Walk more. And still those pounds just wont' come off. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! I still refuse to diet dammit!

a weekend of firsts for the year

2005-06-06T22:54:00.000-07:00

Had my first mulberries. First time to wear a tank top to bed. First bug bite. Damn, it's hot for JUNE.

Yumm. Mulberries. I have had them almost everyday since. Why are mulberries so cool! Easy to grow (weedlike). Free! Fresh! Like Blueberries only not so squishy. I adore my neighbor for not cutting them down.

buffalo roam and deer and antelope play

2005-06-04T22:23:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we drove the two hours to Peoria, to go the the "Wildlife Prarie State Park"
http://www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org/ However if you try and google wildlife refuge, forget it you will not find it. Actually screw google, lately yahoo has been doing much better. Sometimes the internet can be so annoying.

Anyway the park was awesome. Got to see the above title animals, plus black bears, wolves, red and grey fox (smell like skunk), cougars(very cute, huge paws), coyotes, badger, bobcats (smelly). Dad took some good pictures except there all trapped on his camera. didn't get to see otters because they had some youngins and weren't out. Anyway if you are ever by Peoria, I encourage you check it out. Everyone seemed pretty happy except for one bear who was wearing a path and pacing.

star wars three problem SPOILER

2005-06-02T22:47:00.000-07:00

Can someone explain to me how to reconcile Padame dieing. When in episode 6; Luke asks Leia about her real mother and she says something like she was beautiful but always a little sad. come on George. Yes it was much easier to kill her, but you can't go changing the facts Man.

substantial chunk missing

2005-06-02T22:38:00.000-07:00

On Tues. I went to get some of my spots looked at. And well they decided to excise right then. this was not good, because I was working with a grad student and had to go in. The surgery was quick and painless except for the anestetic which hurt like the dickens. After being at work for 4 hours I realized, A; I was not feeling well, B: I felt feverish, C: My arm was swollen, And D: I should have read the info sheet earlier where it said to go home and rest and resume normal activities the next day. Well I went to get my pain killers and an Ice pack. Lets just say for a small piece of skin there is an awful big indention in my arm. The good news I'm feeling better. However the first night I kept waking up because I kept thinking someone is cutting my arm. Picture of my stitches and whole in my arm to gross everyone out to follow.

train trip

2005-05-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Dad and I went to Monticello to ride the train. Luckily I spent an extra 1/2 hour before going to bed and learned that for a mere $20 one could ride in the engine cab. So that's what we did, and it was worth it to see a 68 year old man with the look of a 5 year old child. He was beaming. I enjoyed sticking my head out the window and taking in the prarie. I did feel sorry for the Monticellan's who lived right by the track in town with the wheels screeching against the track and the train having to blow the whistle at every intersection.

Today we went to Busey Woods. the Boardwalk was very nice. I love the sound of the wind whistling through the trees. Saw a pair of ducks. Bought another two toy birds with the bird call inside, Mallard Duck and Canadian Goose to add to my flock of red-winged black bird and cardinal.

To Mingle with Dandelions or Not

2005-05-21T01:10:00.000-07:00

I had a thought today as we were passing the Tru Green Chem Lawn Building. There are two types of people in the world. Those who think dandelions are possible pretty or at least inocuous and those that will put every chemical known to man on there boring patch of lawn to prevent oh my gosh any interloper that possibly might be construed as something that is not grass. My Grandmother taught me to braid dandelions when I was a kid. I loved plucking them and blowing the seeds when I was a kid. I don't do this anymore but when I drive by a field full of yellow blooms, I smile. We also have some pretty violet flower weed here in IL that I also like.

Official definition from dictionary.com: Dandelion: A Eurasian plant (Taraxacum officinale) of the composite family having many-rayed yellow flower heads and deeply notched basal leaves. Widely naturalized as a weed in North America, it is used in salads and to make wine.

And also very pretty but probably not so nice on your lawn, that's what the prarie is for. Wild mustard.

white squirrel picts

2005-05-20T13:28:00.000-07:00

Was it a true albino or not? I don't know. In some of the pictures the eyes look pink. Either way they are just so darn cute. See 5/19 post for the info.

theo vs evo bumper

2005-05-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

darfish40
Originally uploaded by ke-weiss.

See "eat these crumbs" link for just the darwin bumper sticker. We saw this in Decatur at the Rock springs park. Apperently the christians are fighting back. My Dad was a little nervous taking the picture because he was afraid we were going to get caught by some angry Christians.

zoo pictures

2005-05-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

wolf43
Originally uploaded by ke-weiss.

prariedogb
Originally uploaded by ke-weiss.

cheetah52
Originally uploaded by ke-weiss.

white squirrel, Lincoln Logs, buffalo burger

2005-05-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we decided to drive 2 and 1/2 hours to attempt to see the Olney albino squirrels. Though the town claims they are quite commong they aren't abundant in public places. We were very lucky and saw ONE. After taking lots of pictures and feeding peanuts we continued to walk around the park and when we came back it was gone. Boy were we lucky. On the way down we also stopped at Lincoln's parents last residence. It was pretty cool. They had volunteers who acted like the former residents. Felt some freshly sheared wool. It has lanolin so it feels all lotiony. On the way home we stopped in Matoon and my vegetarian father had beef brisket (which he said was one of the best meals ever) and I had a buffalo burger (which was extremely yummy).
Look for pictures in the next post.

lions and tigers and bears oh my ...

2005-05-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

Well not really. But wolves, cheetahs, and oh so cute prarie dogs. Dad and I went out to Decatur today. Which I did not know, is full of cool parks. And as long as you are on the west side you can't smell the soybeans from ADM. First we went to Rock Springs Center and went for a 1.5 mile hike through prarie and trees. I got a stuffed red winged black bird with it's bird call. Pretty cool cause now I know what that weird call I always here is. Then we went to the childrens Zoo. Which was cool. They aboved mentioned wolves, cheetahs, prarie dogs, and also eagles, reptiles, petting zoo, annoying macaws, peacocks, camels, shaved llamas, and mini train ride. I'd never petted a llama before, boy are they soft and really friendly, bad breath though. It was a very nice day. Pictures should follow in a few days.

help me decide

2005-05-08T01:00:00.000-07:00

I bought an I shuffle ( I can't stand a person at work, hearing her voice wants to make me strangle her). Originally I wanted the $99 dollar one, but my work computer has only 500 MB of memory left so there is no room for all my mp3s. I have roughly 250 mp3s, so I got the 1GB for 50 dollars more I can carry almost my whole collection. And lets face it, I'm not going to put the "Weird Al" onto it. The problem is I have Buyers Remorse and am feeling guilty about spending 50 extra when I don't even have the $100. What do ya think?

Now on another completely different issue. I invited my Dad out for a visit and decided to coincide it with the annual duck race. See rubber ducky picture posted below. However they decided to postpone till September. So sad.

cruel and unusual punishment

2005-05-06T23:28:00.000-07:00

Well it was that time of year again, time for my annual physical. I am a person that eats every two hours so asking me to fast for 12 long hours, fills me with dread. Add to that, that I'm sick and I had a very uneasy night. My stomach starting growling at 1 AM. Sometime around three I was able to fall asleep, but I kept dreaming about eating food and ultracentrifuging empty tubes. The food I get, the work issues I don't. The tubes were empty, probably says something. Anyway in my dream I was eating all this yummy food, but I knew I was supposed to be fasting so I kept waking up because I wasn't supposed to be eating. At 7:30 Am I was no longer able to sleep and I had till 11:30 before I could go to the doctor. My dad felt bad, so he was trying to eat his breakfast in secret. The good news is its all over and I've been happily munching all day.

As an aside, I don't care about Britney Spears's marriage, whether Paula slept with a contestant, I'll admit a Kutcher:Demi baby might be a little interesting but not enough to waste time speculating. If you have no idea what I'm talking about good for you.

Informercials send me into a hypnotic state

2005-04-29T22:38:00.000-07:00

Anytime an informercial comes on, I find it impossible to look away or move. Even if I've already seen it. They have the answers to all my questions. Why don't I cook? Because I don't have a slicer, juicer, rotisserie, all in one pan, vacuum sealer, the right knife. Why am I overweight? I don't eat right, excercise, or have to much cortisol. Why isn't my house clean? I don't have the right vacuum, or squeezed the air out of my junk, or have an automatic litter box. Why am I tired? I don't have the right bed, pillow, B-vitamins, juicer, excercise, or wrist thingy to make my ions equal. Why do I have acne? I don't use finely milled oxidants by so and so specialists. Why am I broke? I'm not in AMC, I don't buy houses with no money down, I don't put tiny ads in newspapers telling people to send me money, I don't sell things on Ebay.

Anyway Luckily I have not bought most of these things over the years. I regret to say I have purchased a few less than easy to use products over the years. I have yet to make salsa or ice cream. I don't have tight abs and thighs. I still have acne (actually the acne one sort of worked). And lets just say my adjustable air bed leaks more often than I like. I can't do math in my head and I'm not a speed reader. The liter maid worked but its no fun cleaning poop off the comb, so I'd rather scoop. My sleeping bag does not stay compressed. Actually looking at this list, I'm highly embarrassed.

The latest one I'm having trouble resisting is the sub-lingual vitamin B ad. They are on all the time. I want to be smarter and have more energy. Here's a question for you: Can losing ten pounds in six days be healthy? Slim in 6's doctor says yes, I say NO. What do you think?

I'll buy a product that keeps me from wasting time watching these programs. Luckily I am immune to the Home shopping network, QVC.

catduck.jpg 1

2005-04-27T22:39:00.000-07:00

catduck.jpg 1
Originally uploaded by ke-weiss.

I've had this picture quit awhile but I never noticed the duck feet on the neck strap. Dad pointed it out once I put it on my blog. This isn't my cat. But I just think it is the cutest thing.

better day

2005-04-26T01:32:00.000-07:00

Positive things today:

Well I gave a pretty decent journal club today on an interesting paper. I've been problem solving for a visiting researcher, I need to put that on my resume. My cells didn't turn blue in the absence of glycerol today. So I'm beginning to nail down what caused my tantrum the other day.

I am job searching. I'm thinking of looking for the technical support jobs. Sitting around answering questions all day, would be a nice respite for a year from the constant failure of research. Here's hoping my raise comes through!

Watched Meet the Fockers and Shark Tail this weekend. Very glad I did not go see these in the theater. I missed the Robert Ebert Film Festival. I even knew someone with a pass so I wouldn't have had to wait outside in the cold and damp.

In two weeks is the CU duck race. Getting Very excited. You know I love my rubber duckies. This year I going to buy a glow in the dark turtle I think. Below is my glowing rubber duck that I bought last year. It was 40 degrees and raining. But Sooz toughed it out with me.

glowing rubber duck

2005-04-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

glowing rubber duck
Originally uploaded by ke-weiss.

Yucky pizza and bunsen burner circles

2005-04-20T23:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had a yucky pizza. I went to the Bread Company and got there "special" spinach pizza. However whoever made it, decided that distrubuting the spinach evenly around the pizza dough was apperently too much effort. It was also to much effort to cut up the spinach. So I ended up with a pizza with piles of whole leaf spinach on about 3 pieces. This would have been Ok if the spinach was still raw but instead It was a disgusting big green gooey mess. I don't think I'll ever eat there for dinner again. The service was also terrible. College kids more interested in flirting than working. I can't believe I paid for it, I'm thinking of going back and demanding my money back. It just never pays to try something new at a restaurant. The good news is that once I picked the spinach off it was quite edible if a bit cheeseless.

Once again it also took me like 5 mins to get out of the Switzer lab last night because I have to check that I turned the Bunsen burner off. Well then when I walk away I think oops did I turn it on by mistake. So I go in endless circles. This is exhausting. Dad has actually witnessed the madness. Hence the reason for the name of my sight. Of corse the circles are better than when I am already out the building or worse all the way home. And yes it is always off, except for one time in my early grad school days. Thankfully nothing caught on fire.

Well here I go actually leaving lab before midnight.

April 20th

2005-04-20T00:34:00.000-07:00

Well here I go delving into this world called blogging so friends and family can keep updated on my daily happenings. Thanks to Arvin for my Blog name. My reason for doing this, I am to lazy/exhausted/selfish to individually email people. And I enjoy going to Bec's and seeing her pictures and happenings.

Ok now for daily info:

Sadie went to the vet. She cried during the rabies shot. It was very heartwrenching. However I think she was kinda faking at first because the needle wasn't even in yet. Found out there are three kinds of US microchips and not all scanners can read them. My vet recommended the AVID one cause it is most common and what they use in all the counties around here. Why microchip? Sadie still manages to get loose. I was reading an article on Huskies at the Vet and they said the wanderlust of the Husky comes from the fact that they were bred to run and explore. They just want to see what's around the corner. I can't wait till I move someplace where I can put up a six foot fence.

There was also an interesting article on vacations with your pet. The Hiking or Canoeing ones seem like a possibility. The have a doggy camp but that will never work with dog aggressive Sadie. Interestingly the Husky article said Huskies are never dog aggressive.

I'm very saddened that Tru Calling got canceled. That leaves America's Next Top Model, King of Queens. Boston Legal, and Greys Anatomy as the only shows I watch. Why watch Boston Legal? James Spader, William Shatner, and Candice Bergnan. I really miss Buffy!

Hormel now has Turkey Pepporoni. Much Better than the Veggie Pepperoni. Now if I could just get them to make a Turkey Summer Sausage I would be oh so HAPPY.

Well It's late. Time to go home and watch King of Queens.