♪♫♪♫♪♫ Life Comes at You FAST ♫♪♫♪♫♪

Now that the Smell is Familiar

2011-07-08T22:40:00.000-07:00

How about one of my favorite songs?

This song is so sentimental for me! I want to find LOVE again. He gives and takes away. My heart will choose to stay.

Please tell me of a time, Internets, where things have come and gone. A time where you've received something when you've least expected it.

xoxo

This Feels So Weird, Yet So Familiar

2011-07-08T22:01:00.000-07:00

Scent is the closest sense to memory. Have you ever smelled something that took you back 10 or 15 years? Calvin Klein's Contradiction, do you remember it? That's my take me back 15 years. When I smell Calvin Klein's Contradiction (to THIS DAY), it takes me back to the summer before my freshman year of HIGH SCHOOL. I'm walking with my best friend (who is still my best friend) and her sister to see Nine Months. We're walking from Ruby Tuesday's to the movie theater. You remember it, don't you? Hugh Grant and Julianne Moore, before he was caught sleeping with a prostitute. My best friend cried at the end, I thought it was sweet. Contradiction, IT TAKES ME THERE. Thanks Calvin Klein ;).

Well, anyways, this has nothing to do with Nine Months, Julianne Moore, or Hugh Grant. Nice diatribe though, right? But it does have something to do with scent being tied to memory. You see, I kept having this nagging feeling I should re-open this blog, but I kept denying it. I hadn't written on it in so long, what would people think? Where would I start? And then I opened a 'new post' to see how it would feel AND I could SMELL the familiarity. I could smell it, you guys. Don't ask me how it smells, as I'm not sure how it smelled *exactly, but it smelled like something I recognized. AND I REALIZED I MISSED THE SMELL.

And it was sweet (not the smell but the fact that it took me back). And I thought, YOU KNOW WHAT, I can do this, I can write on this blog. I might not recognize the life I had THEN but I have a life now, and it's not about being SINGLE, but it's about being happy. And this space had and HAS so much to do with being happy. I love this space! I was always so honest and real, so much fun we had here. I'm not finished yet! And if we're being COMPLETELY honest, I feel much more comfortable with Blogspot.

So, I'm back. It EVEN smells familiar. I'm not sure how often I'll type. But I'm sure I'll find something to type about at one time or another.

xoxo,
RAW

Big News!!

2010-06-03T10:27:00.000-07:00

Ahem... look who decided to show her face again- I can't believe it either!! After a good think about it and a huge desire to blog, I decided to get back to blogging. But not here!

NEW BLOG IS HERE! Add me to your Reader at http://bloggergonesingle.wordpress.com/.

I'll be waiting for you (wait... does that sound weird?). And I'll be commenting again, so blog away!

xoxo,
r.a.w.

Why Shouldn't You Tickle an Egg?

2010-04-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

Because it might CRACK UP. Bahaha. I'm sorry but I love Easter jokes almost as much as I love snowman jokes.

Happy Easter! I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday. I did. It was such a beautiful day here. Sunshine, sunshine, sunshine. It was wonderful. Well, except for that darn dog that kept biting the tires on my bike as I was trying my hardest to ride it. What a strange dog, it really loved rubber. It would not stop. And I couldn't get off the bike because it was my Mom's bike, and if we're being honest, I couldn't touch the ground very easily because I'm SO short. So it was weird and kind of like a scene from Kujo. But the day really was beautiful, so I'm thankful for that.

Also, while we're talking about things for which I am thankful but are also a bit strange... yesterday Homie was at Kr0ger perusing the vegetable area when a CAR CAME CRASHING INTO THE STORE. It didn't stop at the building either, it bulldozed through the card aisles and wiped out a couple of the checkout lanes. Luckily, no one suffered serious injuries. It was a case of a 79 year-old woman who accelerated instead of braking while parallel parking. Also, she didn't let off the accelerator while crashing through the store, which caused her to bulldoze through half the store. How crazy is that? Homie was RIGHT THERE and a bit shaken to say the least. Wow. Crazy. I tell you. Crazy.

And let's be honest, I haven't blogged in ages. I rarely have a computer when I'm away from work, and blogging from work just. seems. wrong. But all that's about to change because....

get ready for it...

I BOUGHT A HOUSE! Yes, I did. I close on May 6th. This means May should be a lively time for this little blog. I will have my COMPUTER, my CAMERA, my CAMERA CORD, and everything else that brings joy to my blogging. So, get ready for it.

Until then though... I'll be sleeping on an air mattress at a friend's house. Nothing like a piece of humble pie to get me excited for my own little place. A little cottage in a cute little area. I can't wait to share pictures of it... get ready for it. Because there will be LOTS of pictures.

Happy Easter! I miss everyone, and will be back to commenting soon.

xoxo,

r.a.w.

Health Kick Season

2010-03-09T08:44:00.000-08:00

Hello Internets!! It's good to see you again. The sun is shining, my calendar says it's the month of March, my pocketbook says ouch from its incessant opening and closing at department stores across the nation (the online nation), and my gut is feeling ~~firm~~ flabby... ruh roh. That's right ladies and ~~gentleman~~ more ladies, it's that time of year again. Health kick season is upon us. And in case you haven't figured it out yet, I love a good health kick.

This year I made the executive decision to join a gym, but not just A GYM, two gyms. Both gyms are at my work place which give me the opportunity to (wait for it) workout early in the morning (i.e. BEFORE work) or during lunch. Because we all know how popular I am after work, I can't be bothered to work out then. My new goal is to workout five days a week. If I workout before work I'll use one gym (lonely, cramped, not many machines gym) and if I workout during lunch I'll use the other gym (hello beautiful, open, lots of machines gym). So, that is my theory anyways. It's only a few dollars more to join both, and the little gym is close to my office, while the big gym is not. Makes perfect sense, right?

Also, I my car was washed on Sunday. It felt good to rid it of the salt and bird poo. However, what was not cool was the rain falling a mere three hours after it was washed. And before you even say it, it was not forecasted to rain. Not even a little bit. There was no rain in the forecast for DAYS. But luckily it only sprinkled and it hasn't rained again since. So, I'm still happy I got it washed.

Maybe it's the sun but I feel better. It's not quite as hard to get out of bed on Sunday mornings (why Sundays are the hardest, I have no idea). I've learned to make lists because I WANT to accomplish the tasks on that list, but only if I have a list do I care to accomplish anything (especially on a Sunday and its sad I know). I can see life zipping by without me and I want to keep up with it (I just noticed I was acting as a bystander). I'm still lonely sometimes but that's getting better too. The one thing I can't figure out is how to cook for myself (any ideas?), Homie and I remain friends, and that still seems like a good thing.

How are you? Am I forgetting anything?

Getting into a Routine

2010-03-01T18:31:00.000-08:00

So, I'm finally getting into a routine. I'm learning to live on my own again, which is so strange. I'm used to having a family- people who eat the food I cook (rather than me eating the same leftovers all week long), who are gracious for the house I keep clean (now it's just me), and for the love of all things blogging, I am used to having someone to talk to at all hours of the day and night. And someone to snuggle with at night (gag! I know). This breaking up is so hard to do.

And it's so hard for me to come to grips with everything. I love to have control of things, or at least have A PLAN. And now there is nothing. I just cannot come to grips with what happened to Homie (his traumatic brain injury), and WHY DID IT HAVE TO HAPPEN? It's the worst feeling in the world, the one thing I cannot change, the one thing I could not keep from happening. Yet these happenings are a part of life, and life was going so smoothly, but then it wasn't. And the hardest part is dealing with those curve balls.

But Homie and I have decided to remain good friends (at least for the moment). And that means a lot to me, that we can still communicate. But I also cannot imagine going out into the dating world again. I was so young when I met Homie. Not just my age, but my thoughts and naivete. I've grown so much since then, and I've grown so much in the past year and a half, I don't even know what age best suits me. Am I thinking too far into this? And I've lost a part of my sense of self. The part of myself that was part of a family and had a family plan.I had a plan when I was with Homie. Having kids, growing old with him, and loving him until the very end. And although I still want to do those things, the future is now so unknown (and that is SCARY). To know and have a plan, and then the darkness!

But I am happy for the most part. And I have great friends. I love both my IRL friends and my bloggy friends. I know with all of the support I've been given, I can get through this, I can get through anything. Thank you for still reading my blog even though the posts are so sporadic. It means so much to have a place where I can write and people will listen.

All of the Things I've Meant to Say but Haven't...

2010-02-17T18:45:00.000-08:00

... and none of it earth-shattering or juicy.

Since I'm only about six weeks behind, I'll say that I did join the hoopla that is New Years and resolved this year. Nothing serious. But I made two New Year's resolutions. One is to slow down. I am always barreling through life at break neck speed, I'm always scheduling myself in and rushing from one thing to the next. This year, I'm resolving to slow down. To relax, to calm down. Everything I do, need not be a competition with myself to see if I can do it faster than the time before. Also, I'm resolving to eat more salads. I love salads, and generally, they are packed with vegetables. So, I've been *trying* to eat a salad every day. With this, I also gave up french fries (except for the very rare occasion). And that is only because I eat out much more than I should, and I will get french fries every time if I'm not careful. This is actually going quite well. I do have to remind myself to slow down all the time when I find myself *rushing*. But it's definitely helping, and in the forefront of my mind.
I am taking the Complete Course in Professional Photography from the New York Institute of Photography. I quite like it. So far, I've completed two lessons. And am working on my third. It's really helpful, and I've found myself taking and studying my pictures much more intensely. Also, I've subscribed to a blog that does weekly photo challenges. Well, I've only done one of the challenges, and it's not online yet because I don't have my camera cord with me (boohoo), but I plan on keeping up with that. I've also thought about joining a 365 day flickr challenge, but I need my camera cord first. And that is a huge commitment, it would have to happen EVERY DAY.
I bought a new pair of jeans and I love them. I want to wear them every day. I haven't fallen in the snow once this year. This is a new record for me, especially since it takes me 25 minutes to walk into work and I have slipped (but NOT fallen) about 500 times. So, glad too. Last year I fell and ripped my pants like you would not believe, so embarassing!
The walking... and the snow... is making me so hungry. SO HUNGRY! It's like all I want to do is shove food in my piehole. Every chance I get. So weird.
Today I ate Indian food, it was so good. Tomorrow I am a hosting a little dinner party (at a friend's house), and I am really terrible at the dessert part. I have no idea what to make, and I am usually pretty bad at making sweet things. It might come out of a box... oops.

OK. I can't think of anything else. Happy Wednesday!

Raise Your Hand

2010-02-16T16:23:00.000-08:00

If winter has your panties wadded so far up your arse you can't think straight. You too? Because this season is doing a number on me. Also, I cannot believe I just said that on MAH BLOG!? What has gotten into me?? I go away a couple of days and come back a foul-mouthed panty- talking fool (don't take note of this Google, I don't want the panties stalkers on my blog). Anyways, back to the subject at hand, and that subject is SNOW. It's pretty at first, but just when you think you've had all the snow you can take, you are presented with another 5-7 inches. And do you know what I hate the most? The fact that it is damn near IMPOSSIBLE to run out to your car quickly and grab one small thing (or just to warm it up for that matter) and come back clean. By the time you make it the 2.5 feet from your door to the car and back to the door again, you've gotten snow so far up your legs you begin to wonder if you are actually wearing pants. But you know you are because that shit is cold, and although your legs are cold, they're not THAT cold. And then no matter how hard you try to keep the snow on the OUTSIDE of the door, it makes its way inside. In an effort to shove the snow out the door, you open it just slightly, just enough for those raging 25mph wind gusts to send another inch of snow through your front door. Which is AWESOME, right? Who doesn't want to clean up snow clumps when they're already running five minutes late for work? And the best (this totally happened)... boots go on, warm car up, take boots off, welcome an inch of snow inside the front door, clean up snow clumps, finish getting ready, boots go on, get in car, realize that something I very much need... is you guessed it, INSIDE. BAHAHA! I love the snow.

And I could shovel the snow, but let's be honest, I don't even own a snow shovel. Especially not now that I'm staying somewhere that isn't even my own house (and let's face it, I didn't shovel then either). And it's not that bad. It's not that I sit around grumpy because there is snow on the ground, it's just that when you want to do something, going out to your car takes on a whole new meaning. And I really think that February is the be-all-end-all on winter for me. So, next year the groundhog better not see his shadow. He better come out and play. I need that six weeks to be nice weather. And everyone keeps saying we're going to get hit hard... one more time. But it will end... March is the 'in like a lion, out like a lamb month'. So, hopefully, only one more month. And don't even remind me of that one year we got hit hardest in April, because then I might cry.

So, are you still enjoying winter? Or are you ready for those nice warm Spring months too?

Also, Happy Fat Tuesday.

Hi'Ya and a Winner

2010-02-10T17:59:00.000-08:00

Thanks so much the sweet comments in regards to my last post. It was definitely a hard post to write, and it was definitely difficult to put out there. But now, NOW, I feel so much better. And I only lost ONE follower. So, that's not too bad right? Of course, I'm only kidding, I don't get my panties in a wad that easily. And I'm sure it wasn't that one post that sent them on their way, anyways. So, yes, thank you. I'm looking for a new place to live, and crossing my fingers that I can find one before April (hello tax credit). I'm kind of excited about this new adventure (if we're looking at the positive side of things and we totally ARE).

On to more important business, I finally picked a winner for my Gap Giveaway. In the end I used random.org. I had great thoughts of printing the comments, cutting them out, and then drawing an entry. But that was just too much. I don't have my camera cord right now, or a printer, so it was just out of the question.

Now... drum roll please, are we ready to find out the WINNAH??? Drum roll again... #30 Heather wins from Paisley-Place. Email me, yo, and I will happily send you the gift card. I really wish I could send one to all of you, but of course I can't afford that, so I'll just have to do another one soon.

Also, I loved reading everyone's answers. It was fun to see your favorite posts, what you'd like to read more about, and it was also nice to know that only one of you was using me for my giveaway (ahem...Nettie, it's a good thing I love you ANYWAYS).

So, Happy Wednesday. I hope you have a wonderful night!!

And email me Heather.

xoxo.

At Least I've Lost Weight!?!?

2010-02-09T12:07:00.000-08:00

I remember when Homie was sick, and I was shuffling around, transporting him to therapies, and every where else I (or he or the Bean) needed to be at the time. The stress of that time, I can still remember, the adrenaline pumping through my veins. Right now, I feel the same way. I feel like I am running on adrenaline alone. And I feel like I am making the ups and downs of my life more than known on my blog. But there does to be one important aspect I've left out. I'm not sure why I haven't said anything, but I guess it has something to do with my pride, and the fact that letting it out in the open is like revealing a huge epic failure. And revealing it to one person at a time OVER AND OVER AGAIN. Fun!

There are good days and bad days. But these days seem to have more bad than good. And I'm trying to change that because it's annoying even to me. Anyways, I'm looking for a new place to live, like a new place to live on my own. It's strange and weird to be on my own again, but I think it's for the best. After Homie's traumatic brain injury (his thoughts are) he needs to find his independence and not be such a burden on others. That I can understand (I guess). I don't think his way of implementing that plan was very honorable as I was quite surprised, and taken aback at some of his accusations. It's almost like watching someone slide backwards. The most daunting is that from his injury, it seems as though he's filled in the gaps of what he can't remember, with what he thinks is the truth. AND ACTUALLY BELIEVES HE KNOWS THE TRUTH. So, that was quite surprising and upsetting. But I will be fine, everything will be fine. I did really, really love Homie. But he very obviously has some soul-searching he needs to do ON HIS OWN. Also: he's crazy. :)

But anyways, now that we have that out there. Let's talk about something a little more uplifting. I am so excited about the giveaway. And I have not forgotten. I just haven't had my computer, so of course, I haven't been able to pick a winner. But the entries?? They were AWESOME. And every time I felt sad or depressed, I would think about the entries, and they would instantly make me smile. I'll elaborate more on what every one had to say at some point. And I can't wait to use some of your post ideas. I'll pick a winner tomorrow (I need to print them out and such). So, come back tomorrow, OK??

Also, I have the best friends in the world. Thanks guys!!

xoxo

Finally Friday!!

2010-02-05T08:02:00.000-08:00

I am SO excited today is Friday. The first few days of this week were rough, but I rallied through, and today is FRIDAY! Doesn't it feel so good to say that? I always wonder if Stay-At-Home-Moms feel that way. I babysat extensively for a family (who COINCIDENTALLY had a nanny but also worked from home), and when I/we weren't there during the weekends (equaled to ALL of a couple of hours), they were always, IT'S FINALLY MONDAY. I HATE THE WEEKENDS... WHAT!? I could NOT sympathize. But since then I always wondered if that feeling was mutual among SAHMs. And then there is Sundry who sometimes cannot wait to go back to work after a weekend at home. I also can't sympathize with that either... at least not yet.

Anyways, what I was trying to say was, HAPPY FRIDAY. I am so excited about this weekend. I'm not sure why, but I am REALLY excited. And I get to see ONE of my favorite friends. I hope I don't get a migraine like I did last weekend, that was NOT cool. Do you hear me Universe, NOT cool?! And also, I am going to relax a lot. And try and use my mind to keep the snow from falling (as if that has any possibility of working). I might even go shopping, there is so much I want to buy. My list is totally obnoxious, and completely materilistic, nothing I need. Is that terrible?

Also, I plan to take lots and lots of pictures. Photo project: blur. Plus, my giveaway. Don't forget to enter today, as THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE. LAST CHANCE. And thanks to everyone who did enter, you made my day. SERIOUSLY. It definitely put a smile on my face, I loved reading every last thing you had to say. And I'm so excited to pick a winner. I HEART YOU!

And I have tons of posts ideas. I'll keep those filed in my brain for next week (or if I'm feeling extra creative- this weekend). But yes, my blogger-brain-block is GONE. Thank goodness. I was worried I might not ever know what to write about again.

Also, a post that makes me happy, proof that it will be [semi] warm again soon- I love having archives. I remember this night, the night I was sprinting home in the dark. And the best part, we had been sitting out with friends/neighbors, and I specifically remember I WAS NOT WEARING A COAT, NONE of us were wearing a coat. It's the little things people, the little things. It's also the day we booked our tickets for England. Wow! I remember that day... it makes me nostalgic.

And the song I am feeling today (too much for a rainy day? perhaps. but I can't get enough).

Laughter... And a Freakin Tutu

2010-02-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

And today... there was laughter. Can you believe it? Don't even tell me you just did the biggest double-take of your life (or NOT, just go along with it, OK)? Because after yesterday I thought I might not ever laugh again, especially laugh like this... I was convinced yesterday was the day spawned straight from Satan himself, I was... unsure I would find happiness in my daily life EVER AGAIN (slight exaggeration). But after all of that pouting and depression, there was something beautiful in starting a new day today, and I am so glad I got that chance. Because after yesterday... I needed a laugh. And although I came upon my laugh by chance, I got it, and I sure as hell took it.

And in giving credit where credit is due... I'll share my laugh with all of you (sorry about the rhyme, I'm not THAT happy, I swear). I was blog hopping (as I tend to do for SERIOUS hours of my day), and I happened upon Dooce. Now I read Dooce on occasion, and I'll be the first to admit that sometimes she really makes me laugh, I've been in stitches (about to pee my pants) a few times while reading her blog. It doesn't happen ALL of the time but it does happen sometimes. Well today, TODAY, was like no other and I could. not. (no matter how hard I tried) pull. myself. together... I could not do it. It was like the funniest thing I had ever read in my life. And in the back of my mind I kept thinking, but is it really that funny? I thought I was going to suffocate from laughing so hard (is that EVEN possible?). And I would think... get a hold of yourself, woman. You are crazy, this is SO not that funny. But I just couldn't do it. I read that post another 30 times and laughed and laughed every time.

Anyways, I don't know if it's just ME, or if it's just a side effect of my rotten day yesterday... but here is the post. I hope it makes you laugh just as uncontrollably as it did me. Man. Every time I think about it.

------------------------

As a side note, I think it's Leta's age. I can just picture everything about it, EVERYTHING. And I once was in an unfortunate situation where I *accidentally* said shit in front of a child while in the car. Something about a red light, I wasn't driving, and forgot the child was in the back seat. So, for the next THIRTY MINUTES or so, after the infamous 'S' word came out of my mouth that's all he said... shit, shit, shit. In every pitch and in every tone imaginable... it was like a never ending echo. It was awful but terribly, terribly funny. We were trying SOOOOOO hard not to laugh, but it was just so DAMN funny. And he would not stop... it was probably the best 30 minutes of his life. But then he finally stopped (and must have forgotten about it) because I haven't heard him say it since... thank goodness!!

Go laugh!!

One of Those Days.

2010-02-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

I am having ONE. OF. THOSE. DAYS. You know the ones. The ones where nothing goes as expected, or as it should go. The headache when I woke up, getting to work, parking my car and THEN realizing Homie's keys were in my PASSENGER SEAT (he moved my car to get into the garage last night), going all the way back home on icy roads, and then doing it all over again. NO FUN! But I'm feeling better now (luckily), and I want to remind you about my GIVEAWAY.

Hello people? It's for the Gap AND IT'S $25. Only a few people have entered. And the form is easy-peasy to fill out (if you can't get it to work, send me an email), and you don't have to answer all of the questions (the more you answer the more likely you are to win). I'll be picking the winner over the weekend (I hope, if I have Internet access).

Also, I am exhausted! Is it winter? Is it the fact that I keep getting hit with serious bouts of depression? I don't know. But it sucks a big bunch of ASS. I can barely get anything done. And I never want to take pictures, which SUCKS, especially when a few weeks ago I was merrily taking pictures of PLATES... PLATES. By the way, the snowman is now on my Happy Everything Plate... I'll be taking another picture soon (well, when I find the motivation... which could very well be on the 14th of Nevah... speaking of the 14th... hmmph). So, get ready for it.

I may or may not have heard from a certain someone (ahem... Homie) that I have the same chance of being a professional photographer as he does PLAYING FOR THE NFL. The NFL! And my photography... I am still learning. Maybe I don't even want to be a PROFESSIONAL photographer, or maybe I do. But Homie... he is OLD. Much older than ME, even older than BRETT FAVRE. So, when he says I have the same chance as he does (except he's playing for the NFL)... I have zero chance. So, guess who signed herself up for photography classes?? And guess who is going to be the BEST professional photographer EVAH! Right here ladies (and more ladies!). I'll show him. As soon as I find the motivation to pick up my camera again (ahem).

I'll stop here and save you from the never ending WHINE that has taken over my blog. Who doesn't like a blog centered around the whine (and yes, I would like some cheese with this whine thankyouverymuch)? Bahhhhhhhh. Thinking happy thoughts... thinking happy thoughts. I am a mess I tell you. A HOT mess.

The only thing keeping me sane is... YOU! Now sign-up for my giveaway! Do it!

Let's all whine. What's driving you crazy?

xoxo

Blog-O-Versary

2010-01-28T12:49:00.000-08:00

Say WHAT!? Has it really been a year since I started this blog?? Since I wrote my very first post. Seriously? I can't even believe it myself! A year... in so many ways it feels like I started this blog an eternity ago, and in so many ways it feels like I started this blog yesterday. Looking back it's amazing how so much can change in ONE year. It's amazing how much. can. change in general.

One year ago TODAY we were getting through the woes of Homie's traumatic brain injury. I was celebrating life, feeling blessed that he had made it so far and had done SO MUCH for me, I went on a health kick, and got uber sick of the cold. We went to England where I visited my favorite 5-year old niece, I was in a wedding, started cycling to work, we celebrated the fourth of July bbq style. Homie visited England AGAIN, and I missed him. I posted my first plate- The Happy Everything Plate- and debuted my new hair style. Each week for a number of weeks I participated in Hot and Healthy Thru the Holidays (until the Holidays became too much), celebrated Thanksgiving, posted more pictures of plates, and then went on a hiatus (of which I forgot to warn my bloggy friends... oops!).

I'll admit the beginning was rough. It's strange to write posts and not know who you're talking to or who's listening. It's strange to journal your life on an open forum. But now I love this blog. I love having a place to write and talk about my thoughts and theories. I love my sidebar and music notes and reading comments. It does so much for me, this blogging thing does.

So, how about we celebrate this blog-o-versary of mine. And by we I mean YOU. Do you feel up to it? Here's the deal. I have a GAP GIFTCARD worth $25. I also have a form below this text. For every question you answer on that form (AND IT'S ALL ABOUT ME, since this blog is all about me), you get one entry into this giveaway. EXCEPT if you blog about this giveaway or follow my blog (and provide the links on the form), you get TWO entries. Sound fun? Let's do it.

I am supplying the GIFT (or item to be given away). So, yeah, I can do what I want. The form must be filled out before 12pm (PST), Friday Feb 5th, to have a chance at winning. Also, the winner will be chosen randomly. **I am the only person who can view the answers, no one else will see them, or the spreadsheet where the answers are automatically sent**

xoxo,

Yours Truly

On Surviving the Cold: Part Deux

2010-01-26T18:26:00.000-08:00

So, last year I wrote a post about surviving the cold, in which I gave the Internets my mechanisms for survival during the horrid, snowy conditions that seemed to go on for years and years on end. Almost all of my very first posts were weather related (I'm not even joking here). Read it! Read them! I know you you're dying to know about the weather in my life. And since it's cold here AGAIN (imagine that, it's cold at the same time of year THIS YEAR as LAST YEAR, who would have thought?), I thought I would supply you with the mechanisms I am using this year to survive. Funny how nothing really changes.

This year...

I am still drinking Diet Coke, but it's NO longer a survival mechanism. I have broken free of it's ugly, addicting grip (well, for the most part). I have moved on to grape juice, peppermint tea and wine. I love the grapes, I'm not even going to pretend I don't, and that helps the Diet Coke situation.

Water... drinking it (sometimes).

Snow boots... to UGG boots (woot! woot!). They are so warm and fuzzy and I love them (have I mentioned them before?).

Scarves... I'm the first to admit I'm a little obsessed. I have my favorites, and then I have my most favorites. There are a few (see picture) that I switch out during the week. And I love them.

My camera. I'm not sure how I ever survived without it. It makes everything a little more enjoyable. My only wish is that the sun would stay out until I got home so I could take pictures with natural light.

My Crackberry. It always gives me something to do, something to hold, something to use. Isn't she pretty?

Also, my blog-o-versary is coming up! I can't believe I've been blogging for an ENTIRE YEAR (almost). When I started this blog I thought it was so strange to write posts each week, in which I basically had a conversation with myself and posted it for all the Internets to see! Now, I love it. It's awesome, and I love all of you. This blogging is so much fun! So much fun in fact, I think I'll have a little contest on my blog-o-versary. Only, this will not be your normal leave a comment contest, but something much more fun. I'll be working on it. So, don't forget to check back on the 28th of January.

See you then!

R.A.W.

Well, Ermm, Hi Bloggers!

2010-01-24T18:10:00.000-08:00

Sheesh, it's a been a while hasn't it!? I'll be the first to admit that when I posted my last blog entry ONE MONTH ago I had no idea I'd be stepping away for an entire month. I did have Christmas posts SAVED AS DRAFTS for the love of BLOGGING. I should have posted one of those bad boys... I'm sure you were DYING to see the Christmas ornaments adorning my Christmas tree. But the good news is we always have NEXT YEAR. And it's a little late to post those now, eh. But anyways, my month long hiatus was not really planned, it was just needed.

And it's a bit awkward. It's difficult to step away. And then of course dealing with THE PRESSURE to write again is even more difficult. I have so much to say, I'm just not sure when I'll be up to saying it. Awesome huh? What have I been doing? I've done a lot of traveling, which is fun. I took a trip to escape the snow only to find MORE snow. I've been hanging out with friends and playing lots of games, drinking some red wine. Trying to avoid the cold (and today- the rain) that is the other side of my front door. The Bean has gerbils... and they poop a lot. I finally took down the Christmas... FINALLY (let me tell you... I'm still kind of living in December).

Ummm... I got a new cell phone which is super awesome. And I lurve it. Let me tell you, I now know why they endearingly call the Blackberry a Crackberry. Because if it's not in my hands... ohmygosh... there is a lot of hand wringing going on- I wish I was kidding you guys. But it is that. addicting.

I also got a pair of Uggs which have taken over as the LOVE of my life. When I received these (as a gift) I thought pshhh, I'll never wear them, they're too trendy. And then I put them on... and I've not taken them off since. Well, except to shower. But that's about it... I'm IN LOVE.

So, that's me in a nutshell, how are you Bloggers?

Miss you all!
xoxo

Is This Blog Worthy?

2009-12-21T09:58:00.000-08:00

We all know that once the blogging starts the inevitable happens. You spend every waking moment wondering if every.single.thing. that happens during the course of your day is bloggable. Is the weather bad enough/interesting enough/unique enough to write a post on, are my kids being silly enough to acquire the space of an entire post, and should I blog this or or maybe I should blog that? You put t-shirts on your kids that read, 'My Mommy is Blogging This'. It happens to the best of us (please tell me I'm not the only one, please!?). Right? It does, right?

So, anyways as I was eating my yummy sandwich from Jimmy Johns, I came across this... and what kind of blogger would I be if I didn't blog it... Seriously!! I had a moment.

Dave Barry: 16 Things That Took Me Over 50 Years to Learn
My comments are in red italics. Also I read. I laughed. I cried (may or may not be slightly over dramatized to grip your attention). I agreed and disagreed. And then I decided to share.

1. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.
HOLY COW, this is funny AND true (AND NO I promise you I am not speaking from my own experience). I just hope it didn't take him ALL fifty years to figure this one out. It's just a bad idea all together.

2. If you had to identify, in one word, the reason why the human race has not achieved, and never will achieve, its full potential, that word would be “meetings.”
Umm... OK. I guess 'meetings' keeps us from achieving our full potential...whatev. I'm not buying it. But I'm not age 50, so maybe I will feel that way then... or NOT.

3. There is a very fine line between “hobby” and “mental illness.”
Hahaha... this is so true! A very fine line indeed.

4. People who want to share their religious views with you almost never want you to share yours with them.
Profound. And true. Do you want others to share their views?

5. You should not confuse your career with your life.
Homie!??? Are you here, are you reading?! Take this man's advice. PLEASE. TAKE HIS ADVICE.

6. Nobody cares if you can’t dance well. Just get up and dance.
True dat! You might remember when I showed you my dancing moves here (click on it, I know you want to)! It is indeed proof that no one cares if you can't dance (or if you just jump around and call it dancing).

7. Never lick a steak knife.
I may or may not be learning this little gem OVER AND OVER AGAIN. And maybe I like it that way? I always. want. to lick. the knife! Is that terrible?? ALWAYS. Come on. Have you? ** Though not to be tried at home, it can be painful.***

8. The most destructive force in the universe is gossip.
I like this one because it's so DEEP, and true. When will we ever learn?

9. You will never find anybody who can give you a clear and compelling reason why we observe daylight savings time.
I think it has something to do with farmers!? Sheep? Hell, you're right, I DON'T KNOW!

10. You should never say anything to a woman that even remotely suggests that you think she’s pregnant unless you can see an actual baby emerging from her at that moment.
I hope I never fall victim to this one. NEVER!

11. There comes a time when you should stop expecting other people to make a big deal about your birthday. That time is age eleven.
Let's not tell the Bean about this one, she's turning 12 in February, and I think this could break her heart. And we don't want that, do WE? Besides, I like to make a big deal out of birthdays. Do you?

12. The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers.
Are you a good driver? Above average? I used to be a terrible driver, terrible. Now I'm much better. And cautious. Just don't ask Homie, he doesn't know anything. He'd probably tell you he was the best driver on the planet! And you don't even want to know what he would say about me. And regardless, he'd be wrong!

13. A person, who is nice to you, but rude to a waiter, is not a nice person (This is very important. Pay attention. It never fails.)
Be nice to the waiter. Always tip.

14. Your friends love you anyway.
Aww... I like this one!

15. Never be afraid to try something new. Remember that a lone amateur built the Ark. A large group of professionals built the Titanic.
Favorite. Now, go build that ark!

16. Thought for the day: Men are like fine wine. They start out as grapes, and it’s up to the women to stomp the crap out of them until they turn into something acceptable to have dinner with.
Oh, gosh. ~~I'm still trying to bring my little grape back to life after it had the shit stomped out of him, previously.~~ my man is perfect already. cannot keep straight face!

Thanks to Dave Barry (click it if you want to laugh) and Jimmy Johns for supplying the material for this post. I will always be grateful a simple lunch turned into such a beautiful blog post. Or not. Whatever. I know you liked it. You can thank me in the comment section.

We Have a Winner!!!

2009-12-19T18:29:00.000-08:00

True Random Number Generator Result: 9

Timestamp: Saturday, December 19, 2009 8:13:49 PM

The winner is SUZ!! Congratulations Suz. Contact me via email so we can send you the apron of your choice. You are going to love it. YAY!!

This was so much fun, thanks everyone for participating. I can't wait to do another one.

**Thanks to Ashley from http://www.cookware.com for supplying the prize!!**

Thank You Ladies!

2009-12-17T19:28:00.000-08:00

It's Thursday. And what better day to show thanks than on a Thursday (you know with the alliteration of Thankful Thursday and all)... so how about it? Anyone else want to join in??

First... ALL of you sure know how to make a girl smile!! Thank YOU for all of your wonderful comments on my giveaway post. You're all awesome. And if you'd still like the chance to win one of the cutest aprons ever, please comment on this post before Saturday at noon. I'll announce the winner sometime in the evening on Saturday. Good luck!! And thanks again!

I'm also thankful there are only four more days until Winter Solstice (it's the little things, right?). Honestly, I love Winter Solstice because it's the first real indicator that winter will end... at some point. Maybe not any time soon, and maybe it's only going to get colder before it gets warmer, but from this point forward the days are only going to get longer. Right? I always make sure and remind Homie of that too, 'don't you think the days are getting longer, HUH? Dontcha?' He thinks I'm crazy. And I am. But that besides the point. I'm just thankful that the darkest of days are almost behind us!

I'm thankful that it's almost the weekend. And although I have Christmas gifts to buy, and the malls and shopping centers are going to be a madhouse, I'm almost finished. And that almost means so much.

I'm thankful that I am feeling SO, SO much better. I was worried that the dreadful, miserable feelings I had were going to stick with me well into Christmas. But I feel so much better now. And I hope everyone in blogland is feeling better too!

I am thankful for Homie and the Bean. Without them my Christmas would be pretty bleak. And also for all of my family and friends during this season. And my blog friends... xoxo.

Last one... I am thankful that ONE week from today is Christmas Eve. Holy cow... could the days go any faster? Could they? Oh my!

Also, a big shout out to Tina, it's her birthday today!! ♪♫ Happy Birthday, Tina ♪♫.

Squeeeeeee: A Giveaway

2009-12-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

EDITED TO ADD: Contest is now closed! I'll announce a winner later tonight. Good luck!!.

Guess what ladies and ~~gentlemen~~ more ladies??? I'm hosting my very first giveaway on THIS blog. The same blog you so graciously read every day and where you leave me so many WONDERFUL comments. You have a chance to win something. And guess what!? The prize is AWESOME! It's from CSN stores (I can't believe it either), which sales lots of Rachael Ray Cookware on their site, and you should definitely check them out now. I know you want to, so just go ahead and do it. Just be warned, you might ending up browsing all night long, and you might want it all (I may or may not be speaking from experience).

Anyways, you might be curious as to what I am giving away, no? Well, do you remember this post? The post where I talked nonstop about cooking. And where I talked about the one item that makes me HAPPY, that makes me feel like I am the sassy cooking queen, and that I would definitely wear to work if they would only let me (OK I didn't say all of that but you get the picture).... I am giving away an apron. But not just any apron, one of the four aprons you see below. Perhaps one of the cutest aprons in all the land? I think so. And I ♥ aprons, please tell me you do too. And please tell me you will leave a comment for a chance to win. Please? With all of the cookies, fudge, and other goodies you'll be making this time of year, you will definitely need one. DEFINITELY.

So, now that you're oh so excited let's break out the rules. Choose your FAVORITE of the aprons below. Leave a comment on this post telling me which is your favorite (don't worry you can change your mind if you win). Also, if you feel inspired to blog or tweet about this giveaway in which you share a link to this post, please leave me a separate comment where you will be given two chances to win. And for a THIRD chance, follow my blog, or leave a separate comment telling me you already follow my blog. Easy enough?

I'll choose the winner on SATURDAY from random.org! So, get your entries in before 12pm Saturday.

Let's break out the aprons:

1. This is the Sassy Cook'n Let's Sushi! Women's Bib Style Apron. And I'm in love. Seriously!

2. Sassy Cook'n Cherry Fresh Collection. So fresh! And so adorable! I'm dying.

3. Sassy Cook'n Flower Pot Collection. So bright and fun.

4. Sassy Cook'n Purple Peepers Collection. Love the peepers. LOVE.

Are you in love? And inspired? I hope so, GOOD LUCK!

**Thanks to Ashley from http://www.cookware.com/ for giving me this opportunity. Ashley is supplying the gift, and will assist the winner once she/he she (you can totally win if you're a man, I just don't know if any read my blog, that's all) is chosen. Thanks!!

Virtual Cookie Exchange

2009-12-16T06:21:00.000-08:00

Also, the best idea EVER!

Do you have a recipe you'd like to share? If so, go here and link up. Right this second! OK? Thanks. So, when it comes to making cookies, I have one recipe that I follow AND that I love. I actually found it on the Pioneer Woman website. The cookies are so good and easy to make, plus they are SO. MUCH. FUN. Here is the recipe in all its Christmas glory. Taken from Pioneer Woman site, it is not my own recipe- just so you know.

Ingredients

Cookies:

⅔ cups Shortening

¾ cups Sugar

½ teaspoons Grated Orange Or Lemon Zest

½ teaspoons Vanilla

1 whole Egg

4 teaspoons Milk

2 cups Flour

1-½ teaspoon Baking Powder

¼ teaspoons Salt
_____

EGG YOLK GLAZE:

1 whole Egg Yolk

1 teaspoon Water

2 drops (to 3) Food Coloring
_____

WHITE DECORATIVE ICING:
I have to admit this is the DEATH of me. I am so bad at the icing thing, and I've never gotten it to work using these ingredients. I always add a lot more milk. But you should try it! Maybe it will work for you?

1 bag 2 Lb Powdered Sugar

¼ cups Milk

2 Tablespoons Egg White (optional)

----------------------------------------------------------
Preparation Instructions

Cream shortening, sugar, orange peel, and vanilla thoroughly. Add in egg and beat until light and fluffy. Add in the milk and mix.

Sift dry ingredients together, then blend into cream mixture. Divide dough in half (thirds if you double your recipe), slightly flatten between two sheets of waxed paper, then refrigerate for one hour (or freeze for 20 minutes).

While dough is chilling, combine egg yolk, water and food coloring to make the egg yolk glaze.

Roll out dough on lightly floured surface and cut into shapes with a cookie cutters. Transfer shapes to lightly greased cookie sheet and paint cookies (with a soft brush) with egg yolk glaze.
After brushing with egg yolk glaze, bake at 375 degrees for approximately 6 minutes. Do not allow the cookies to brown.

While cookies are baking, mix powdered sugar, milk and egg whites (which are optional) to make the decorative icing. Remove cookies from oven to a wire rack to cool. Then, using a pastry bag or Ziploc bag, pipe with white icing to decorate.

Note: when making the white decorative icing, make sure that it is thick and somewhat retains its shape.

Go to her site for more detailed instructions and PICTURES. They are so good. I love them, and so does my family.

XOXO,
r.a.w.

PS I have a great giveaway that goes AWESOME with this post. Check it out here.

On food and family...

2009-12-14T19:10:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't like to talk about food? Right!? I mean we all do it. Whether we're eating it, or cooking it, or eating it AND cooking it (ME!) we're DOING it. I'm doing it every single day, probably too many times a day. But as I was making dinner tonight I was thinking about the role I have taken in my family as the cook or head chef (if you will) (AND you will dammit). I like to cook, I really enjoy it. And I love any opportunity to wear a cute apron, so that's encouraging. But oh my holy hell, there is so much that comes with the cooking... SO much.

First, I will say I can't believe I'm talking about cooking on my blog, I'm so sorry. It's just on my brain and it's going to be there until I get it out. So, now that you've been warned, I was thinking tonight about how long it takes me every freakin' night to cook. I've been cooking for well over a year now (one year and six weeks to be exact), and it still takes me ages and ages and ages to slice mushrooms. Or julienne a red bell pepper. Or OH MY GOSH, trim the chicken. Talk about an all day event. It takes me so long to do anything that I know as soon as I see a recipe I just need to go ahead and double the prep time AND the cook time. And I know that Homie is in charge of the onions because my eyes have TEH HATE for the onions. So, there's that.

Also, there is the EXTREME anxiety that comes with cooking for others. WHY? WHY? WHY? Tomorrow night I am making a dish for my friend who gave birth a couple of weeks ago. And if I haven't hemmed and hawed over this like the world was going to end, OH MY GOSH. And the dish?? The dish you put the food in, what the hell kind of dish do you take? Disposable? Nice? China? Please help, I've lost my mind. Also, everyone else who has taken a dish is so much older, wiser, and more experienced than me. But then I remind myself that she is lurvely, and expects nothing. And she did so much when Homie was sick. So, I carry on and tell myself to relax already, and give myself a break. And once I did that I figured it all out, and it's not even a little bit stressful. Before though, wow. Ridiculous.

There is also the EXTREME anxiety of cooking for the Bean. Those tweens are tricky, and you shouldn't believe anyone who tries and tells you differently. Holy hell, the Bean is also a vegetarian which slightly complicates things. And then there's the fact that she's picky. So, yeah. Cooking for her is anxiety-provoking. Let's just say I've gotten a couple of bad looks. But don't tell anyone that, I'm working on it. And she's still AWESOME.

Next there is the ~~absolute shit~~ burden of not having a dishwasher. What!? You thought you misunderstood me? NO, I don't have a dishwasher. It is terrible as it sounds. And we have very little counterspace. So, I'm always cramped and trying to use the LEAST amount of dishes possible. And I'm always saying, Homie come wash the colander, or the frying pan or whatever it is that is dirty that I might need. It stinks people. Stinks.

But besides all of that I love to cook. And since I've gotten that off my chest, what's your favorite dish?

Peeks Head Around Corner Anyone out there?

2009-12-13T19:10:00.000-08:00

Out there...
Out there...
Out there...

Is my voice echoing? Because it totally should be, somebody needs to tell this blogger to keep up with her blog! This week I missed Yes! I Did Friday, SuperSnapshot Saturday, and Hot and Healthy Thru the Holidays. Guys. I can't even open my Google Reader without having an-almost panic attack. That's why I haven't been commenting lately. For shame. You know something is wrong when that happens.

What's wrong you ask? Well, I've been in a bit of a funk. A terrible funk! And I've been terribly busy. And well, let's just blame it on those two things, shall we? I'm trying to turn all of that around though. It seems to be working. Because now, NOW, I am in the holiday spirit... again. No more whining or being down, at least not until early next year when I am so sick and tired of the cold, and I all I want is the sun to peek it's head out from behind the clouds, but until then I'm back with a big fat smile on my face. So YAY, I'm back.

Today I made holiday cookies along with homemade icing (NEVER again with the icing!) for the Bean. Her finals begin tomorrow (since when do SIXTH graders have finals??!!), and her hardest two finals are tomorrow. So she gets cookies. In making the cookies I did manage to BREAK THE BLENDER. So, as you may have guessed, I'm soooo not a baker. And now I am without a blender. But besides that, these cookies were fun to make, and the *few* that I tried were delicious. Maybe I'll post pictures tomorrow?

I've also done two loads of laundry (although I need to get one load out of the dryer and put the other in the dryer). Shopped and bought a pink tree for the Bean. And now I am making dinner. How about a skillet full of olive oil, potatoes, green peppers, onions and sausage? It's Homie's favorite, and one I like very much.

Does anyone have big plans this week? I need to finish shopping for a couple of people (MEN are so hard to buy for, are they not?), and we also have our office Christmas party this weekend. So, I'm looking forward to that. Besides that, and finishing up work stuff before the holiday, that's all I've got to do.

Also, you should look forward to another Christmas edition. Now that I have all of my Christmas decorations out (sarcastic slow clap), I have a few more things to add to my blog. And I am going to try really hard to blog a lot more this week. I hate it when I neglect my blog, and especially when I don't participate in the memes, they're so much fun. I'll be commenting too, so get ready for that.

If you're still out there my lovely readers, thank you for being so sweet to me when I neglect my blog, and NEGLECT YOUR BLOGS (holds head in hands with shame). I'll make up with lots and lots of comments tomorrow. Tonight. I am switching out the loads of laundry (BORING!) and going to bed.

Goodnight, Peeps.

R.A.W.
xoxoxo

Bringing a Smile?

2009-12-07T18:08:00.000-08:00

In my last post I told you how much I love snowmen cartoons. And since most of us here in the States (and some of us beyond) are experiencing snow, I give you my favorite snow funnies!They make me laugh every time, and if you're feeling kind of low (like me... booooooo), you need a smile.

Have fun!! Or laugh. Or something.

This one... aww I love this one.

So funny!

And the best one yet!

Happy Snow days. Unless you're Jeanette, then I'm sorry (do you find humor in snow? or should I warn you not to visit my blog, LOL?).

Happy Monday!!

Yes! I Did Friday

2009-12-04T06:24:00.001-08:00

Because Yes! I Did get distracted by snowman pictures after reading the latest post at Fellowship.

Yes! I Did look for my favorite snowman picture of all time.

Yes! I Did find it (you're welcome).

And Yes! I Did post it here.

What did you do today? Or this week? Wanna share? Click here to go to Jeanette's blog and add your meme to the list of awesome Yes! I Did posts.