The Wannabe Redhead

For Today...04/06/201

2011-04-07T13:16:00.008-05:00

*I got this idea from another blog. Thought it'd be a good way to get back in the game. Sorry for such a looooooong absence. Life's been...busy? Ya, I'm gonna go with that.*

Outside my window...Gloomy and chilly. Not happy about it, especially since I told a friend I’d run outside with her tonight.

I am thankful for... all of my family members having jobs they really enjoy :)

From the kitchen... Thank GOODNESS I got the fish from last night’s dinner scraped off of that baking sheet. Too bad I left a bunch of other dirty dishes in the sink. Oh well, can’t win ‘em all.

I am wearing...brown pants and a really, really bright snazzy scoop neck shirt. It’s springtime, peeps!!

I am creating...a koozie design for Mustaches 4 Kids Omaha. It’s Mustache Time!

I am reading... Name All the Animals by Allison Smith – only 20 pages in. Jury’s still out.

I am hoping... this sunburn/peeling on my face goes away before I renew my license next week. The old picture isn’t great, and I don’t want to be stuck with another crappy one!

I am hearing... the sweet sounds of the Brandi Carlile station on Pandora. TGFH (Thank God For Headphones).

Around the house... yard work is on my mind. PUKE. I hope the fat squirrels leave me alone, the possums lurking in the bushes stay there, and that I don’t run into any garter snakes. I'm already changing my mind.

One of my favorite things... Prescription-strength Allegra. Enough said.

Here is a picture I am sharing... Couldn't help myself.

More to come, I promise!

Currently Obssessing Over...

2010-10-06T10:11:00.005-05:00

1. Castle
Anyone watching this season?? I'll be honest, the only reason I started watching it last season was because it was on after DWTS. But now? I'm hooked!! Such great story lines, action, humor...all rolled into one! Can't wait to find out what happens next!2. Cheese & Crackers
Totally random, I know but come on... who doesn't love cheese & crackers? Oh, and if you're looking for a new cracker?? Club Multi-Grain all the way! Dee-lish!

3. OPI Pompeii Purple
I love this nail polish! (Now that I know I can get it online for only $2.43, I'm ALL.OVER.IT.!!)

4. Brandi Carlile
She recently performed in Council Bluffs, and I had the opportunity to see her. "PHENOMENAL" doesn't even cover it!!I wanted to sell all my belongings, pack a bag, and follow her on the road. SHE'S THAT GOOD. Here's a video of one of my favorite songs. Unbelievable. (you're welcome.)

That is all (for now)!

2010-10-04T08:00:00.003-05:00

Two very special people in my life have significant Birthdays today.

Needless to say, they need to be recognized!!

My God Son Charlie turns two today. Isn’t he just the cutest??

Happy Birthday Charlie, I miss you (and your Mom & Dad) every day!

This is my good friend Dana Bea. Today is her 30th Birthday!!

Dana, on behalf of all of us 30 year olds, I’d like to welcome you to the Dirty Thirty Club. You’ll get your official membership card in the mail.

(Or, maybe not.)

Love to you both!

Hope you each have a great day and get to celebrate with cake, booze (not you Charlie), and whatever else makes you happy!!

Going Down?

2010-10-01T08:13:00.001-05:00

The other day, I got on the elevator to leave work.

(Keep in mind, I'm going from floor 15 to floor 1.)

The elevator stopped on floor 3.

Two ladies, not much older than me, stepped onto the elevator.

They proceeded to push the button for Floor 2. Two. TWO!!!!!

Really?! REALLY!?!?!

It happened AGAIN-the very next day... same two ladies!

Now, I'm all about laziness, but this is taking it to a whole new level.

I wonder if they also wheel their desk chairs to the breakroom for lunch?

Kitty Ditty

2010-09-30T09:54:00.006-05:00

A couple of things happened this week that inspired me to start blogging again. Yay, me.

(Yep that was sarcasm. What?! I can't help it.)

Rachel, my lovely sister, was staying with me for a couple of days earlier this week. I was at home and Rachel had left to run a few errands. She came back into the house and said, "OMG, Valerie you HAVE to see this cat that's sitting in your yard!"

Normally, I get pissed when cats are in my yard. I'm just not a huge fan and they creep me out a little. I went to the door expecting to have to a confrontation with this four-legged creature...

Instead, what I found was a cat that was 100%, positively CROSS-EYED.

We laughed so loud the cat got scared and ran away.

I can't get the image out of my head, and at random moments throughout the day, I'll think of that cat and start laughing. Truly, honestly makes my day.

Who knew a cat would be responsible for my blogging comeback!?!?

Funky Dunky!!

2010-08-17T08:00:00.004-05:00

Today my Big Sister turns 32!!!

Over the weekend, I made a quick trip to DM to help her CELEBRATE!!

Pedicures
+
shopping
+
margaritas
+
yummy Mexican food
+
more shopping
+
more margaritas
=
A GREAT TIME!!

Love you, Jess! Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday, Huddy Buddy!

2010-07-06T09:56:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend, we celebrated my nephew Hudson's 3rd Birthday.

He is adorable and sweet,
he has the most gorgeous blue eyes,
and he loves to ask: "What you doing?"

Hope you had a wonderful Birthday Hudson! I love you so much!

Losing my Swagger...

2010-05-27T09:46:00.003-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts this month.

First off, I don't know where this month has gone, but I WILL say tis' the season for Wedding Showers, Baby Showers, and Bachelorette parties!! Oh my!

Also, I've been working really hard to recruit men and raise funds for a local charity called Mustaches For Kids. Check out the website. Pretty funny concept, with awesome results that help kids in Nebraska. Yes, you'll notice that I am the Chief Medical Officer. What that means?? I'm not sure. I feel like it's been 'All Mustaches, All the Time' over the last two months. But hey, it's for the kids! Totally worth it! If you want to help the cause and donate to a mustache - even if it's $5- check out the photos on the website and click on the Donate Now button. We have 8 days left and we're OH SO Close to our goal of $33,000.00!!

Work is also super busy. My boss has been gone all week, and before he left, he gave me three projects to work on (plus my 'normal' responsibilities). A teeeeeeeeny tiny bit stressed out.

Thank goodness for the long weekend ahead. I'm doing this again this year...however, since breaking my wrist I've gotten completely out of shape, so I'm going to be walking/jogging/complaining the entire time. It's for a good cause, so I'll grin & bear it! Other than the Boystown walk, I am planning on laying low this weekend and catching up on some MUCH NEEDED sleep!

Hopefully I'll be able to regroup and come back renewed, refreshed, and with some of my swagger back!!!

Have a great weekend, People!

This Explains So Much...

2010-05-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

I was diggin up old pictures and came across this one:

Guess which one I am?

(Only kidding. Papa Ron would never do that...um, never. Right?!)

www.awkwardfamilyphotos.com

Happy Birthday, Little Guy!

2010-05-04T14:07:00.004-05:00

Today is my nephew's 5th Birthday!! I cannot believe he's FIVE!!

Isn't he the cutest thing you've ever seen??!?!

Love you Carter!!

Your Favorite Aunt ;)

Val

2010-04-14T15:25:00.005-05:00

Today is my 30th Birthday.

...and I don't want any Old Lady jokes, ya hear?!?

I am incredibly blessed with phenomenal friends and family, all who indulge me by letting me believe it's some sort of National Holiday.

I got to work today and was surprised by this:

Pretty out of control, huh?!

(Oh and yes, that's a Miley Cyrus bag!)

Tonight I get to hang out with my lovely and talented BFF, her Hubby & my God-Daughter.

(She just joined the Dirty Thirty Club as well!)

I feel like I've been partying it up since April 1st (it's now considered My Birthday MONTH, you know!) but the "official" party is Friday. My lovely Seester has spear-headed the effort and although I know very little about the 'details' of the party, I DO know that it will be fun.

Thanks to everyone for the Birthday Wishes!

Here's to the 30's being the BEST YEARS of my life!! (Or just a helluva lot of fun!!)

My First PT Appointment...

2010-03-30T13:07:00.003-05:00

Physical Therapist (performing painful tests on my wrist): Wow, your range of motion sucks!

ME (trying not to freak out): Um, ya...I do better with "Positive" Reinforcement.

Physical Therapist (searching for words): You're not as much of a baby as the last guy I treated...(?)

ME (laughing): Obviously, we both have things we need to work on here ; )

IDK, she's like, TOTALLY my BFF!

2010-03-29T09:55:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was my Best.Friend.Forever's 30th Birthday!

(YES...I said THIRTY...)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEGHAN!!!!

Here are the two of us a few years ago:

(I had a really great tan back then...)

She makes me laugh, she watches me cry, she is a terrific Mama, she's completely comfortable talking about bodily functions, and she knows me better than anyone else.

I love you Meghan!!

Twittering - TWR style!

2010-03-16T09:36:00.005-05:00

After much convincing from Mi Ma, I'm now taking Calcium with Vitamin D. Now I'm up to a total of 7 different pills throughout the day. I'm officially OLD.

There's a cute auditor working at my office. His name is Paul. He is cute. Even his NAME is cute. *Le sigh*

The New Moon 2 Disc Special Edition DVD comes out Saturday, March 20th. I hope I get it for my birthday, I hope I get it for my birthday, I hope I get it for my birthday... (too much?!?)

Lately, I've been wanting to 'get the hell out of Dodge.' I'm hoping that damn tax return gets here soon...I need a vacation!

The sun reeeeeaaaaalllllyyyy needs to make an appearance...RIGHTNOW. I'm starting to look like a ghost in every picture I take. Not to mention the Return of The Double Chin.

Starting a little Physical Therapy next week. I'd rather have someone else put me through pain then have to try and do it myself...is that normal??

Total Eclipse of the...whatever, the boys are hot.

2010-03-11T13:43:00.003-06:00

Say what you want... but I'm SO.EXCITED. about this movie.

Maybe it's Taylor Lautner's abs (back off, he's "legal" now!!) -OR- Robert Pattinson's gorgeously pale face & beautiful voice, I'm not sure. Either way, the trailer was released today and I can't stop watching.

Check it out:

http://movies.msn.com/movies/movie-trailers/?g=b488087d-6875-4f79-91db-abf0db2efdee&from=en-us_msnhp&Gt1=42007

Brace Yourself!

2010-03-05T13:51:00.004-06:00

I went in on Wednesday to get The Pink Lady (a.k.a. the cast) "re-sized" because it was getting too big. The nurse pulled out this chain-saw contraption, then proceeded to tell me that I shouldn't be scared because-- while the saw would cut the cast, it wouldn't cut my skin.

CRAZYNURSESAIDWHAT?!?

Alas, she was right. Sheesh, I need to be more trusting of Medical Professionals.

Speaking of Medical Professionals, Dr. E-dog came in to check me out and said I should get X-rays.

So I did.

I had a different X-ray Tech this time and filled him in on The Situation, and told him he had to look at the X-rays once he printed them out. When he walked back in with the X-rays, he held them up to the light and his jaw dropped. He couldn't BELIEVE how much crap I had in my arm! (It's pretty much the reaction I get whenever I tell people what the surgery entailed.)

Dr. E said that I didn't have to wear the cast anymore, and put me in a heavy-duty brace:

Hot with a capital H.O.T.

Although I'm supposed to "treat it like it's still in a cast" (Dr.'s orders), I can take it off to shower, which is nice. In about a week, I can start working on my range of motion. THAT'S not going to hurt AT ALL....rrrrright.

If I weren't trying to stay positive throughout this entire "episode," I'd tell you that I'm still in pain, the scars are U-G-L-Y, my hand & arm are still swollen and bruised, and Lefty is ready to put in his Letter of Resignation.

Instead of dwelling on those things, I usually just look at my brace and think that I must look like a Professional Bowler who just can't bear to go anywhere without The Glove...

...and that makes me laugh.

Onward we go, RIGHT?!?!

**I know that all my recent posts have been about The Wrist, and for that I apologize. I promise, in a week or so, to get back to the Regularly Scheduled Program. You know, with the 'entertaining' stories that involve my non-existent dating life, my run-ins with treadmills, and other miscellany..."the good stuff."

I think I forgot to mention...

2010-02-24T15:34:00.004-06:00

That when I went into the Doctor on Friday he put me in a cast. A bonefide, only-up-to-my-forearm kinda cast!! THANK GOD because if I had to spend anymore time in that splint that went up past my elbow, wearing that navy blue sling, I would've gone BAT-SH*T crazy. No lie.

So, I decided against the standard black, navy, or plain (eek)- and decided to go with the most obnoxious color ever:

Ain't she a beauty??

I go back into the Doctor March 12th to remove the cast, get X-rays, and we'll go from there ;) As always, I'll keep you posted.

Let's Get LENT!

2010-02-22T10:23:00.002-06:00

I gave up coffee/caffeine for Lent. As if I wasn't already a bear to deal with in the morning...

I also not trying not to get annoyed or think bad thoughts about the co-worker who clears her throat ALL.DAY.LONG, whom I recently saw in the bathroom blowing her nose into her hand (yes, you read that right. I almost threw up.)

Wish me luck.

On a positive note, I've been doing a really good job of keeping my New year's Resolution to not make fun of Miley Cyrus anymore. I even sat through her new video for her new movie "The Last Song" & didn't say one bad thing!!(Anisa can vouch for me!!) Go me.

What did everyone else give up for Lent??

What Else? ..A surgery update...

2010-02-15T11:59:00.004-06:00

Hey Everyone!

First of all, Thank You to all of you for your prayers & well wishes for my surgery! I was a little hopped up on "Surgery Drugs" for a good portion of last week, so I apologize for not getting this posted sooner.

The surgery went well! Once Dr. Emodi got a closer look, he noticed that there was more damage than he initially thought. Because of this, he had to put multiple (approx. 10) pins in my wrist, as well as a plate. He also had to do some re-wiring of a joint or two. I'm quite positive I will be setting off any & all metal detectors at airport security for the rest of my life! Awesome! Oh, and I have pictures/X-rays of what it looks like... I'm trying to scan/upload. (Gimme a break... I'm working with one hand here!)

My Dad drove me to & from the hospital, and waited patiently during the very looong procedure = thanks, Big Guy!

My sister Rachel came in from KC to help me out. Overnight, she had wake me up every four hours to give me meds, feed me saltines, and do what she does best = make me laugh! I especially appreciated the 3:00 A.M. gab-fest...I was WIDE AWAKE!(Thanks Seester!)

Thanks to the people that dropped off food, called/emailed to check up on me, drove me around, etc. (Man, I've been a real pain in the ass lately!!)

Surgery was successful, I will be in this Splint & Sling for about 3-4 weeks, then will be put into a half "real" cast for another 3-4 weeks. (I'm thinking GREEN for St. Patty's... Thoughts?!) I go back to the doctor Friday for a check up, so I will keep everyone posted.

Thanks again to all of you!

Surgery Required

2010-02-08T10:39:00.003-06:00

Hello Friends & Family on this snowy day! Hope you're all getting around okay!!

Warning/Disclaimer: If you can't handle hearing about bones and medical stuff without getting queasy, you should stop reading now :) I warned you!!

I went to the Doctor Friday for my first check up since The Wrist Debacle of Twenty Ten, and didn't quite get the news I was hoping for... Apparently, I broke more than one bone in my wrist (information he didn't tell me in the ER), and one of the bones that is "shattered" isn't setting correctly. Basically, the bone is sliding down instead of staying in the place it's supposed to. So, he said we could do surgery the following week, or wait two weeks (until the next appointment) to see if it stays put. The problem with waiting is that if it continues to move 'down,' we'll end up having to do surgery anyway...so I will have basically wasted two weeks that could be spent recovering.

So, surgery is scheduled for tomorrow (Tuesday) afternoon. A couple details about the surgery: It'll be Outpatient, but I will be put out completely (ya-ay, anesthesia). He's going to first start by putting pins in, and then he'll see if that alone will work by doing an X-ray. If the X-ray comes back and he's not pleased with how it's sitting, he'll make an incision and put in a plate. This will all be done at one time, he said preferably early next week. The pins are removable, but if the plate is needed, it will not be removed.

Needless to say, I'm pretty devastated with this news. I was really hoping we could avoid surgery. But, like Dr. Emodi said, since I'm young and mostly because it's my dominant hand, he wants to do whatever is necessary to get it back to 100%. I would like that too!

I will keep you posted as things happen!

Take care, stay warm, drive safe, and avoid roller rinks at all costs,

Val

I'm Bringing Sexy Back...

2010-02-04T08:45:00.004-06:00

…in the form of a navy blue sling.

Contents include four sausage-like fingers, a black & blue thumb, a splint cast that’s starting to smell a bit like a foot, and remnants of a cookie from yesterday’s lunch.

I’m radiating SEXY from all of the pores in my body.

Justin Timberlake should be warned.

Why Adults Shouldn't Roller Skate...

2010-02-02T08:54:00.005-06:00

Remember that "HELLA FUN" party I was talking about in my last post?

...Well, it WAS, until:

Yep... while Roller Skating at my good friend's 30th Birthday party, I fell backwards and tried to "catch" myself with my right hand.

Pssst: IT DIDN'T WORK. I broke my wrist, had to head to the ER, and have it reset. Good times!

So, right now I'm in a splint and sling for three weeks, then once the swelling goes down, I'll get a real cast for an additional three weeks.

Since I'm a little hopped up on Vicodin, I've had to rely on good friends and family to drive me around and help me out.

I have a feeling I'm going to be saying "Thank You" more than anything over the next few weeks, so I'm going to start now...

Super Special Thanks to Mr. & Mrs. Dickey, the nice people that drove me to the ER & home that night.

THANK YOU to my wonderful parents who came up the next day and stocked my fridge with groceries, did my laundry & helped me clean the house.

To Bobcat & the birthday girl Sarah, who went back to Skatedaze to pick up my car--thanks! (and sorry my car was so dirty!)

I'm thankful for the Kahler-Gonzales family, who had me join family dinner Sunday night, and gave me lots of love :)

To Erin, who's been driving me to work the past couple of days...thank you and sorry I'm not much of a morning person. (and that you had to come get me in the middle of the day because I over-medicated.)

Needless to say, blogs will be few & far between for a while. My left hand, whom I've decided to call Lefty, isn't used to this much action and gets tired easily! I will, however, try to keep you posted as best as I can! My next appointment is this Friday 02/05/10. Pray that I won't have to have surgery!

Take care!

2010-01-29T10:27:00.005-06:00

Happy 30th Birthday to my very good friend, SARAH!!

On any given day, she's also known as: BEAR, Brown Town, or SAR.

Tonight, we're going to tear it up, Old School Style... I can't say exactly what we're doing, because it's a surprise, but lemme tell you this - It's going to be HELLA FUN!

To my Bear:

You're one of my favorite people. I love you and I'm so lucky to have you in my life. I remember the day we met...good old CTE, over 11 years ago! Since then, we've had more fun than should be allowed, so many laughs, a couple of tears (on my part, mostly) and what I know will be a life-long friendship!

I look forward to celebrating many more birthdays with you!

Happy Birthday, Friend!

Sarah and I at her Bachelorette Party!

The Beautiful Bride!

Sarah with her hubby, Nate - a very nice man!

2010-01-18T13:12:00.006-06:00

Six-pack of Tall Boys from QT: $5.99

Material, Velcro, and Stretchy Gloves at Walmart: $6.32

String, sewing machine, and labor (Courtesy of the best friend in the world): $0

Spending a Saturday night "Pimping My Snuggie" with my Best Friend and her husband:

PRICELESS

...before...

...my little worker bee...

Chris..."supervising"

AFTER!!

(gloves and pockets and velcro...Oh My!)

Missy Misdemeanor

2010-01-11T10:06:00.009-06:00

Back in college, I went to alot of house parties. Now, either house parties can be alot of FUN, or REALLYBORING. That's what happens when you're underage (...wait, did I just say that?! MOM & DAD - STOP READING NOW!) So, to make things interesting, BFF Meghan & I would scout out the place and see if there was anything funny that we could "borrow" from the house to place in our dorm room.

Yes, right now is about the time you get all judgey and say, "WHAT?! 'Borrowing' is just a glorified word for STEALING! Illegal!!"

In our defense, nothing that we 'borrowed' was ever worth anything of real value. (UNLIKE my freshman roommate's tendency to shoplift from Walmart - without me knowing. But that's a completely different story for another time.)

Mainly we would just confiscate things like coasters, lawn ornaments, cups...and there was this really interesting evening when BFF Meghan thought it was funny to take the occupant's toothbrushes...(?) Anyway, you get the picture. Anything that we thought was interesting and funny was fair game, and it was THEIR FAULT for having it out for all to see..and for us to be tempted to take it.

You see, when I was about 20, it rarely crossed my mind that I could actually get in trouble for doing things like this. (Feeling invincible is wonderful, yet soooo naive!) We never did get in trouble, and I wish I could chalk that up to me thinking I was Double-Oh-Seven's sister - but I think it had more to do with dumb luck and a devout Catholic mother's prayers. (THANK GOD.)

That being said, my days of being a clepto are LONG GONE. I don't want anyone reading this to think they can't invite me over to their house because they're afraid that after I leave, their good China will be missing and they'll never see me again.

(Although, I DID try to take Meghan's Snuggie before I had my own...but we're best friends, so it's different...and she has a key to my house, so she could really do some damage if she wanted.)

Jump to this Saturday night.

I was on my way to meet some friends when the stop light in front of me turned yellow, then red.

As I was patiently waiting for the light to turn green, I looked over at one of the houses on my left.

Right there, in the doorway, was none other than this:

AND I WANTED IT. BAD. REALLY BAD.

My old college ways started to sneak back into my brain.

In a matter of five seconds, this is what went through my head:
"It's night time so no one would see me. I wonder if it's just taped to the door way or if it would be a struggle. Is it inside or outside of the doorway? Could I do this by myself? Is there anyone visible in the front hallway? Where would I park my car so that I could get away quickly? It's a busy street, so I would have to look inconspicuous. WHY did I wear this BRIGHT RED COAT?! Anyone that isn't blind will be able to see me. Maybe if I just go up there, and ask, they'll give it to me. I hope they're friendly & understanding people. They might have a gun in the house...Should I call Meghan? Would she help me? No, she's not a Twilight fan. Is this worth it for EDWARD? I would TOTALLY do it if it was Jacob. Jacob is HAWT. Okay focus. It's now or never, VP..."

In the back of my mind, I knew it was wrong, and that inevitably, I wouldn't be able to pull this off, nor should I even try.

What sealed the deal, however, was when one thought hit me like a ton of bricks, bringing me back to reality:

'BORROWING' something at age 29 equals 'JAIL TIME.'

Just then, the light turned green, and with a very heavy *SIGH,* I drove away.

Sometimes, REALITY BITES.

Thank goodness I'm not a vegetarian...

2009-12-11T09:42:00.004-06:00

I got asked out last night.

Great, right?

I thought so too...

Until he told me where he was going to take me:

FUDDRUCKERS.

He even said he'd let me pick out the toppings for his burger.

What a gentleman.

The Makings of a Bad Day

2009-12-10T10:58:00.004-06:00

1. Oversleep
2. Stub your toe on the corner of the vanity
3. Lose your only pair of gloves
4. Get stuck at the bottom of your sloped driveway because the City of Omaha's plows don't give a crap.
5. Watch two trucks with plows drive by your house while scooping your car out, get frustrated that they didn't stop to help.
6. Look over at your sidewalks only to realize the handy-work of the City's plows destroyed any shoveling you did last night.
7. Realize that when you get home from work, you're going to have to shovel. AGAIN. For the SIXTH TIME in 48 hours.
8. Hold back the tears/anger because, oh ya! You still need to go to work today!
9. Curse those that are complaining about "Cabin Fever" and "Snow Days."
10. Get to work - LATE
11. Become inundated with the New Boss's 15 emails needing things "ASAP."
12. Pray that the list stops here.

Who else would like to get back into bed and stay there for a while??

My Version of Twitter...

2009-12-04T09:40:00.008-06:00

*Running on a treadmill next to a guy that smokes is one of the worst things possible. Besides actually falling OFF of the treadmill...but really, who does THAT?! (Tee-hee)

*My New Moon obsession is getting out of control. Next thing you know, I'll be asked to go into a room where all of my friends & family are gathered (with an Intervention Specialist) and they'll read me letters that start out, "Ever since you started reading the Twilight Saga, you haven't been the same person..." and end with, "We love you so much, and just want you to get help. If you don't, we will be forced to cut all ties from you and your self-destructive behavior."

*I miss my old boss. She used to tell me things like "You're doing a SLAMMA-JAMMA job today, Val Pal!" My new boss just invades my Personal Bubble, which makes my hyperventilate.
*Every year when it starts to get reeeallly cold, I ask myself the same question: WHY THE HELL AM I STILL IN NEBRASKA?! I'm soooo not ready for this!

*I hope everyone has a great weekend!

2nd Annual List of Things that Save Lives

2009-12-01T13:10:00.006-06:00

To see the back story, go here.

Yes, folks, once again, it’s time for the list. Five things that, over the past year, I have grown to know & love and couldn’t imagine my life without. Yes, they are material things and yes, I know the best things in life are free. But, we live in a material world, and I am-ma material girl! (that sounds awfully familiar……but not quite accurate).

Anyway, here we go:

The Blackberry Curve. OMGrrrr…. How did I ever live without this thing?? Text, IM, Facebook, Music, Internet….you name it, it’s got it! We’ve had some problems in the past, but overall - Oh, how I love thee…

Quesailla Maker. (and yes, I pronounce it KAY-SA-DIL-LA MAY-KER)….Probably one of the greatest Xmas gifts I’ve ever received. (Besides the GF, of course!) I make more than your average Mexican Quesadilla on this thing, people! I’ve perfected all sorts of quesadilla-shaped wraps. …Totally worth my Mom elbowing that chick in the face those many Black Fridays ago. What?!? It was a Door Buster and that chick was totally out of line!

Headphones. I have annoying & disgusting co-workers that talk very loudly on their phones, that CLIP THEIR NAILS at their desks, and cannot for the life of them CLEAR THE G.D. PLEGHM out of their throats. (Okay, so it’s just one co-worker.) Thank goodness for the headphones. Thank goodness for the headphones. Thank goodness for the headphones. (I saw this picture & it was just too funny. I had to add it to the post.)

My “Chuck Taylors” aka Converse. I love these things. I wear them EVERYWHERE. I think every girl needs a pair of these because they’re comfy, cute, and they give off an “I don’t give a sh*t” attitude that’s nice to pull off every once in a while!

Facebook. I know it sounds nuts, but sometimes, visiting this website keeps me sane. Or, at least entertained! It’s nice to reconnect with old friends, keep in touch with current ones, and find out who in this world is REALLY crazy. It’s kind of nice! Plus, it gives me a chance to let a random thought or two escape my brain! It’s tough work keeping it all up in my noggin all the time!

There you have it folks. The 2nd Annual List of Things that Save Lives. (Or, at least make my life a lot easier!)

Is there something in YOUR life that you can't live without??

Let me hear it!

Thanks for tuning in. Until next time...

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T08:00:00.001-06:00

It's no surprise, this is my favorite Holiday (besides my birthday, of course)!

I love it because of the three F's:

FOOD

Pecan Pie is my Favorite!

FOOTBALL

(This is from ESPN)

(This is the Local Radio Station covering the game)

And most importantly,
FAMILY!

This is the only recent picture I have of all of us together, and of course I look like SH*T. In my defense, I had just run 13.1 miles and almost passed out at the Finish Line.
If you look close, you'll notice...my ENTIRE family wore shirts that said RUN, Val, RUN.
Aren't they the best?!? And HOW CUTE are my nephews? LOVE THEM!

So, if you're wondering where I'll be or what will be occupying my time over the next few days, this is it!

Happy Turkey Day, Everyone!!

To Friend, or Not to Friend…

2009-11-25T10:00:00.004-06:00

…That is the question!

At the beginning of October, I randomly went into a bar with a friend to have some drinks after a long day at work. It must’ve been my lucky day, because the bartender working was extremely good-looking.

The friend I was with (who is Engaged) noticed him noticing me, etc. etc. etc. and decided to take matters into her own hands. (Gotta love attached people = No Shame!) She started asking him questions, getting the info from him about his life, and then started asking me questions in front of him to sort of “help” us get to know each other. Apparently, bartending is a part-time gig for him, and he usually only works Wednesdays. (Did I mention he’s really cute?! Okay, wanted to make that clear.)

Anyway, when we were leaving (sans any digits or a plan to see him again), I hugged my friend and said “I’ll see you next weekend,” to which Bartender said “Next Wednesday?” I just smiled, laughed a little bit, then left. (I wonder why I’m still single?! SERIOUSLY.)

A couple of weeks went by, and in the meantime, I had told another friend (I’ll call her “Irish”) about this dude, just in a passing conversation, like “he was really cute, he works ‘here,’ blah blah GIRL TALK…” and she replied with “I know somebody that works with him! I’ll get the skinny.” (She didn’t use the word skinny. I like that word. I’m improvising here. Go with it.)

Anyway, a couple of weeks went by, and I didn’t hear anything, and I honestly didn’t think anything of it. Irish then calls me out of the blue and says that Bartender had asked her friend about me. (I cringe when I think of the series of events & conversations that went into them realizing that they knew some of the same people. It’s part of the minor control-freak in me.)

Not taking NO for an answer and despite my crimson-colored face, Irish takes me to the bar the following Wednesday. (Note to everyone reading? I LOATHE situations like this. I feel like I’m produce in the supermarket: “Hey you, look at me, pick me! Pick Me! No, don’t walk past me! Hello?!”)

And so I do what I am known to do in situations like this: I CLAM UP. I don’t speak. Not a single peep can be heard from me for most of the night. (Note to all who think I talk too much? Put me in a room with someone I think is good-looking and a potential mate, and you won’t believe your eyes. It’s truly flabbergasting.)

He must’ve thought I was the biggest freak in the bar. I mean, COME ON, Valerie! Get it together! You can have a conversation with an inanimate object, yet you can’t talk to a cute Bartender? What the hell is wrong with you?!

*SIGH*

Feeling really upset with myself, and a little deflated, I pay my tab, and head to the car with my buddies. IRISH, God love her (99.9% of the time), says she has to go back into the bar to go to the bathroom, and wanted to go alone. I don’t know why I didn’t think to question this further, but I didn’t. She went back in to talk to him for me! WHAT. THE. HELL?!? I love this girl, but, WHAT?! Did she pass him a note that said:

Do you like Valerie?
(circle one)

Yes
No
Maybe

Mortified. That’s what I was after I realized what she was doing.

She came out and said, “Well, Val, he ‘Friended’ you on Facebook, but you never accepted him.” (Her tone was ‘Well, duh! That’s why the two of you aren’t together and happily in love by now! Didn’t you know?!)

In my defense, I didn’t realize it was HIM sending me a Friend Request at the time. His profile pic had a few people in it, and was blurry, and I didn’t know his last name. I feel like those are all valid reasons to not accept a random friend request. (Right?!)

Which leads me to the reason for the long story.

It’s been a source of debate between my friends & I, whether or not to accept his Friend Request on Facebook.

My side has many reasons why I DON’T think it’s a good idea.
1) I’m a goofy, goofy person on Facebook. I use it as nothing more than entertainment (for myself, mainly), and think that letting him into that this early would be a MISTAKE. He doesn’t need to see the whole CRAZY TRAIN before even getting to the STATION!!
2) I don’t want him looking through my pictures. I don’t want that to deter him, yet I don’t want to have to alter my page because I’m trying to impress him. For crying out loud, THIS is one of my profile pictures!!

3) I ultimately think that getting to know someone through Facebook (or anything like it) is a cop out. I think it takes away from the face-to-face time that people used to use in order to get to know each other. Why should he be able to peruse my Facebook Info page and photos to find out valuable information about me, when he could just take an hour or two to talk to me and find out the same stuff?

I realize I’m probably over-thinking this, and most people’s response will be like “It’s FACEBOOK, dummy! Not that big of a deal!” but I just don’t see it like that. On the flip side, I’m not sure how soon I’ll be venturing into that bar again or when I’ll see him again to rectify the situation. I’m still a little embarrassed from what happened last week.

I'm at a crossroads. Do I accept the Friend Request and take the chance he’ll think I’m a freak just from looking at my page? Or do I rely on the old adage: “If it’s meant to happen, it will”??

Welcome Aboard the Crazy Train, people!

2009-11-24T10:42:00.002-06:00

Dear GIANT ZIT that decided to show up 3 days before family pictures,

WHAT

THE

HELL?!

Go Away.

Sincerely,

Someone who shouldn't be getting zits because she's TWENTY-NINE.

Midnight Mooning

2009-11-20T09:22:00.007-06:00

No, I didn't go around mooning people at Midnight last night.

It's way too cold for that.

I DID, however, see the Midnight Premiere of the HIGHLY ANTICIPATED 2nd installment of the Twilight Saga: New Moon.

I know, I'm a nerd.

Don't care.

Totally WORTH. IT.

Here's how it went down:

We had purchased our tickets online, but I was worried about getting a good seat, so we got to the theater at about 10:45. Thankfully, they were letting people get seated as soon as they walked through the door, so there was no dealing with crazy 13-year olds. (Sorry, I just used to be one of those, and I even annoyed myself back then.) So, because of some SNAFU, we got assigned to Theater 11 which wasn't going to end up playing the movie. WTF, right?! Right.

So, we got moved to Theater 9, only to get really crappy seats. You know, the ones on the side where your neck is strained to see the screen and just makes for a bad movie experience? So, I decided to take matters in my own hands. (Weird, huh?!) I found one of the "suits" (aka. managers) and politely asked him what the deal with switching theaters was all about, etc. (see Mom?! I do know how to use my nice words!) ...he then said in a hushed voice "If you go into Theater 8, we're playing it in there...but no one knows about it." I swear, I almost turned into one of those 13 year olds and screamed "OH - EM - GEE...SER-EEE-OUSLY?!" but I kept my 29-year old 'cool,' and hauled major ass to get my buds & I seats in the glorious Theater 8.

Turns out...there were only EIGHT people in that particular room the entire time we were watching the movie = P.E.R.F.E.C.T. viewing experience.

Now, onto the movie. *I will try not to spoil it for anyone, I'll just give you my "Business" rundown, and my "Non-Business" rundown. *

Business First:

--The story line was true to the book, and stayed on track - which I appreciated since the books were amazing. Of course, there were a few things that were added to make a successful transition from book-to-screen, but they weren't out of the ordinary and seemed to fit well into the storyline.

--A few times in the movie, I thought they could've done without the all of the ANGST-y, dramatic pauses, but looking back, I think the director probably thought it was necessary to portray how each character really felt.

--The CGI and special effects were AWESOME. The scenes where the AB-tastic boys turned into wolves were a little unrealistic, but then again...so is a boy turning into a wolf...so who am I to complain? Plus, they had their shirts off...so I was in a forgiving mood.

--The fight scenes were fantastic, and my heart beat out of my chest when the Volturi tried to kill Edward. (That's not ruining anything...it's in the previews, people!) I love that they showed how powerful & strong vampires could be. It rocked.

--Overall, the acting was good. Kristen Stewart was convincing. Less lip-biting, annoying first movie antics, and more ACTING. Taylor Lautner, for only being SEVENTEEN, did a fantastic job of portraying Jacob. Oh, and Robert - ya, the kid did not disappoint. *sigh*

Okay, the best part...NON-Business: (Warning-this contains a lot of swooning.)

I think I was the only one who AUDIBLY GASPED when Taylor Lautner took off his shirt for the first, second, and eightieth time. Don't get me wrong...no complaints here. Just sayin'--there were lots of shirtless moments. Me Likey. (Oh ya, all 7 people in the theater with me laughed when I did that. Or maybe they were giggling because they liked it. I didn't ask. I was a little distracted.)

"You said what? Your 18th Birthday isn't until February? Hmmm..."

Edward Cullen (or commonly known as RPattz), did his own share of DAZZLING the screen. Has anyone else ever had to look away from the screen because someone is just THAT HOT, it makes you blush??? Yep, that was what Robert Pattinson did to me during this movie. There's something about that HAIR. And that JAWLINE. And that SMILE. OY VEY...now I'm really starting to sound like a 13 year old!

"That Lucky Bitch."

HOLY Wolf Pack, BATMAN! Have you SEEN these guys?

"The best things in life come in TWENTY-FOUR packs."

As I was walking out, I heard one of the Twihards say: "I WAS on Team Edward, but now...I just don't know!?" that'swhatI'mtalkingabout...

To sum it all up?

I LOVED IT.

I will go see it again. ~~Tonight.~~ Soon.

This movie was twiLIGHT YEARS better than the first one.

Sorry, had to do it.

A Few Recent Obsessions...

2009-11-12T11:45:00.005-06:00

--> My new knee-high boots. Luuuuuv them! Wear them everywhere! They make me & my size 9 feet feel extremely 'trendy.' (Yep, you heard a Niner in there.)

--> ANYTHING related to New Moon. Let's just say You Tube has been getting alotta hits from yours truly. Between RPattz, 'Jail-bait' (Taylor Lautner) & the new hotness that is the WOLF PACK, OH-MY-GUUUUHHH!! Midnight Premiere, anyone?! (SEVEN DAYS!!)

--> DiLusso Smoked Turkey (from Hy-Vee) Try it, live it, love it. Deee-lish!

--> Figuring out a new hair 'do. Now that I've grown it out for almost 5 months, and Sar's Wedding has come & gone, IT NEEDS TO GO. PERIOD. Peace out, ponytail!

--> Taylor Swift. Yes, she's 19. Yes, she's beautiful & tall & skinny with legs that go up to her chin. But, you know what?! She writes or co-writes all of her own songs, and you gotta respect that. Plus, she's not out showing her "Britney" to everyone with a camera. I can't forsee many Miley-isms in her near future. thankgawd.

--> Did I mention NEW MOON!?!? Team Edward or Team Jacob?

--> Running the Lincoln Half Marathon in May (again). I need to start training soon, but my old running partner is too busy to run with me...something about MED SCHOOL or whatever... SO, who's with me!?!?

--> Joshua Radin. He & his music are truly 'the biz-ness.' (TWR code for "DA BOMB") I guess I just have a soft spot for men who play soft guitar music. What? What?!

That's all for now...

Saint Helen

2009-11-05T13:31:00.006-06:00

Happy Birthday to Mi Madre, HELEN!!

On this very special day, I just want to say thank you to this lovely woman for a couple of things. I know I don't say it enough!

Thank you, Mom, for CONSTANTLY praying for me - without it, I would probably be dead. Or in prison.

Thank you, Mom, for your patience when I tease you about putting you in the best Nursing Home possible. (Even though I will. Try.)

Thank you, Mom, for giving me your quirky sense of humor - I laugh at strange things all the time.

Thank you, Mom, for narrating every movie we've ever watched together. Sometimes it's helpful.

Thank you, Mom, for sending me home with food every time I leave your house. Without that, I would have to live on tortillas and peanut butter.

Thank you, Mom, for thinking that I'm "Special." Only you could mean it in a way that doesn't have me riding on the short bus.

I hope you have a great birthday. I'm sure glad you were born :)

And for the record, if you ever get Alzheimer's and forget who I am, I will play along so you don't feel confused. I love you that much.

The Chili Song

2009-11-04T12:47:00.004-06:00

I had an awesome lunch today, and I felt the need to share it with everyone. So, I wrote a Poem/Song about it. Enjoy!

Oh, Chili you are so good,
You’re always welcome in my ‘hood…
A few crackers & a little cheese,
No doubt you’re sure to please.
Sitting at my desk, just smellin’ up the place
Take that Annoying Co-Worker - uh huh- “in your face!”

(Chorus:)
CHEEEELLLLLEEEEEE,
num num.
CHEEEELLLLLEEEEEE,
gimmie some (some)

I’ll pass on the kidney beans,
Even though I still respect you
I have to make it through the day
Without someone thinking “Pee-uuu!”
I’ll put you to the side, but don’t ever forget
Without you my chili needs aren’t truly met.

CHEEEELLLLLEEEEEE,
num num.
CHEEEELLLLLEEEEEE,
gimmie some (some)

I guess it’s time for this song to end
Though it’s hard to say goodbye, my friend.
I ate you all, but didn’t lick the bowl
I really wish I had a cinnamon roll
So good bye it is and will have to be
Until next time..I love you CHILI.

I'm here all week, Folks.

Survey Says...I'm Annoying!

2009-10-08T14:46:00.003-05:00

Poll finds most annoying word — ‘whatever’

So, you know, it is what it is, but Americans are totally annoyed by the use of "whatever" in conversations.

The popular slacker term of indifference was found "most annoying in conversation" by 47 percent of Americans surveyed in a Marist College poll released Wednesday.
"Whatever" easily beat out "you know," which especially grated a quarter of respondents. The other annoying contenders were "anyway" (at 7 percent), "it is what it is" (11 percent) and "at the end of the day" (2 percent).

For the full story, go here.

Um, I say each and every one of these words/phrases ON A REGULAR BASIS.

95% of my vocabulary consists of the bolded words!

Sometimes, I use two or more of these words in the SAME SENTENCE

I think it's time for a bit of revamping...You Know?

Whatever.

Happy 1st Birthday, Charlie!!

2009-10-06T14:10:00.003-05:00

(Once again, I'm behind.)

Here's a belated Birthday wish to my very adorable Godson, Charlie!

He turned ONE on Saturday, October 4th!Happy Birthday, Little Guy!

I miss you & think about you every day!

A little ditty...

2009-10-02T16:05:00.003-05:00

I don't feel like writing anything.

I'm still mourning the loss of my Blackberry.

And the fact that I haven't recieved my new one yet.

I know, Poor Me.

Anyway, I was going through my old posts, and I came across one that is fitting for this weekend.

So, go here. Maybe, if you haven't read it before, you'll get to enjoy it.

Or, if you don't enjoy it, hopefully it will keep you entertained for 5 minutes.

Regardless...I'm headed to Happy Hour.

Boo-yah! Peace out, peeps!

Because I'm not cool enough to have a Twitter account...

2009-09-30T15:52:00.003-05:00

@thewannaberedhead says:

I think Apples are Delicious.

3:53 p.m.

R.I.P. Blackberry #1

2009-09-28T10:13:00.009-05:00

It was a ROUGH weekend.

My beloved, treasured, forever adored Blackberry froze/broke/kicked-the-bucket on Friday.

I went to the Altell store only for them to say they needed to order me another one, but it would take 2-5 days for it to get here.

TWO TO FIVE DAYS?!?!? Two to five days without Internet. Facebook. BBM. Text Messages. My Contacts. Music. Pictures. WHAT??!?!?

(That's when the hyperventilating began.)

In the meantime, I could use one of their loan-er phones. I shuttered at the thought.

I went from this...

To THIS...

But WAIT. This picture does not depict the true essence of the loan-er phone. (I would take a picture of it & upload it, but my BLACKBERRY broke & I can't. BITTER, party of one?! Right here!!) Nope, the phone I took home is banged up, has a brownish-black tint to it - no doubt from all of the hands that have touched it over the past year or so - and is unbearably hard to read. I took a Clorox wipe to it, just in case it happened to be carrying the H1N1 virus.

I become involuntarily ANGRY every time I look at this phone.

ANGRY.

I am a bit embarrassed that this is how I am acting about A PHONE. I realize that there are much worse things happening around me, and in the world in which we live.

But - how can I solve the world's problems WITHOUT A BLACKBERRY?! (Hyperventilating again....give me a second...)

I guess "Mission: Save the World, Valerie-Style" will reconvene in 2 - 5 days.

Rest in Peace, Blackberry #1. Rest in Peace.

Let's Make It Happen!

2009-09-24T10:47:00.005-05:00

Upon hearing that I have a GIGANTOR 'crush' on this guy...

...Papa Ron said: "I'd be okay with you dating him."

Ummmm...

YA, DAD...

ME. TOO.

More Hot Air in the Windy City...

2009-09-22T11:11:00.007-05:00

I went to Chicago this weekend to spend some time with a few of my Girls. We had so much fun that I'm still a little sleepy from all of the activities & adventures! It was a GREAT time!

I didn't take too many pictures--there was too much going on--but I did capture a few good ones.

Here's Tayla & I enjoying a few brews at the Hotel bar.

Angie & I went for a 6 mile run on Saturday morning (she's training for a Full Marathon). As much as I despise any form of exercising while on vacation, I thoroughly enjoyed this run because of the view & the company. (This isn't my picture, but in person it was exactly like this, only closer!)

Two of the beauties I hung out with this weekend :) --showing their Husker pride!Go Big Red!

Coincidentally, the couple that gave me life were in town for the Bears/Steelers game. They met up with us at Kirkwoods, a HUSKER BAR for the NU/VT game.
(The sad, sad game. * TEAR *)

I had so much fun hanging out with these two! Can you blame me? Look at this guy!
(The man loves his corn!)

Oh, and there was an incident where the dress I was wearing was too slippery for a bar stool I tried to sit on. In what seemed like SLOOOOOW Motion, I went sliding off & landed on my ass. Thank God I have a little 'junk in the trunk' to help cushion the blow! Don't worry, my "friends" whipped out their cameras, took pictures, and were doubled-over, laughing. Looking forward to seeing THAT picture!

Some Steelers fans I had just made friends with were kind enough to help me up. AND they bought me a shot! Good times! Let's be honest - it's not the first time I've had issues with hand/eye/foot/butt coordination! An excursion just wouldn't be complete without me showing off how uncoordinated I am!

(It's a wonder I'm able to live in society!)

I was sad to leave the City, but it's always good to come back to Good Ol' Nebraska!

Thanks to my fantastic friends for a wonderful weekend!

IS IT 11-20-09 YET?!?!?!

2009-09-14T15:28:00.003-05:00

This Is Why We're Friends...

2009-09-10T12:48:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I received a call from my BFF Meghan at around 11:00 am. Because it was an unusual time for her to call, I answered.

Unfortunately, Meghan wasn't feeling well & had to go to the Doctor--yep, we call each other about things like that. Because of all of the crap going around, the Doctor had her wear a mask.

In Public.

(Try to keep it in, people. Just try.)

So last night, my phone notifies me of a new text/picture message.

It was from Meghan:

"I am a Ninja"

Yep, that's exactly what it said.

I'm still laughing.

Hope you start to feel better soon, Meeeeeg!

2009-09-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

Bo Pelini's wristwatch doesn't have numbers.

It simply says: "Time To Kick Ass."

GO BIG RED!!

Wanted: S.L.E.E.P.

2009-09-02T16:16:00.006-05:00

I am so tired this week I don't know what to do with myself.

Rest assured, I have still been able to get up every morning & get myself ready for the day.

Including Hair & Makeup.

To prove it to you, I took a picture this morning.

I know what you're thinking:

"It baffles me how amazing she looks in the morning!"

Don't be jealous.

Some people are just naturally good-looking.

Until next zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.......

Simply Said...

2009-08-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

There is no place like Nebraska,

Dear old Nebraska U.

Where the girls are the fairest,

The boys are the squarest,

Of any old school that I knew.

There is no place like Nebraska,

Where they're all true blue.

We'll all stick together,

In all kinds of weather,

For dear old Nebraska U.

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

BBBBBBIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG

RRRRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDD!!!

ONE. WEEK. -- ARE YOU READY?!?!?!?!?!?

IRON - A - REFUND!

2009-08-21T08:00:00.003-05:00

Maybe it's because I'm a huge cheap-ass (THANK YOU, RECESSION!), but I could never imagine paying this much money for an ironing board.

From the Bed Bath & Beyond Website:
Revolution 360™ Ironing Board

This revolutionary ironing board not only looks great with its contemporary design, it will provide you with fast, professional results from the comfort of your own home. The Revolution 360™ ironing board features a rotating body board for faster, professional results, two-sided full rotating ironing surface, and an ergonomic design that models the human torso with one flat and one contoured side helping to keep shirts taut during ironing. Its special features will help you create exact creases in slacks and collars, cuffs and pockets with precision. Self-standing.

All for the bargain price of $129.99!!

I think this is the appropriate time to throw out the "WTF?!" (Sorry, Mom.)

Nothing But Class...

2009-08-19T16:02:00.002-05:00

I was in a hurry to get out the door this morning, so I threw on a pair of pants that I haven't worn in a while.

I didn't know why I hadn't worn the pants for a while....until I went to the bathroom at work and looked in the full-length mirror.

Apparently, the last time I wore them, the hem fell out on the left leg and I decided to "fix" it....

Using a STAPLER.

CLASSY.

Let's just say tomorrow I'm going to take a little more time while getting ready.

Still Recovering...

2009-08-18T12:13:00.005-05:00

Went to Kearney this weekend to reunite with some of the ~~drunks~~ friends I hung out with in college.

Alot of fun was had.

My body still aches (presumably from my friend's husband tackling me on the dance floor), and I have sworn off alcohol......at least until Wednesday.

Here are a couple of pics....

Only in Kearney will you see a sign that says this:

Or be tipsy enough in the middle of the afternoon to think this is HILARIOUS:

Or take a picture right before the person in the blue hat turns around & thinks it's football season:

You might need to give me a few days.

Recovery time lasts a little bit longer when you're saying "good-bye" instead of "hello" to your Twenties...

You say it's your Birthday....

2009-08-17T09:48:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday to my older, wiser, much more responsible sister!
Love you Jessica!

Can't wait to hang out with you this weekend! Iowa State Fair, here we come!!

THROW THEM BONES!!!!!

2009-08-15T09:43:00.001-05:00

"I ultimately believe there are people who have lost sight about what it means to play great defense nowadays. It's not about the scheme. It's not about tricking somebody. It's about dominating somebody." --Bo Pelini--

THREE WEEKS!! Are you ready??

Too Late...

2009-08-13T10:16:00.014-05:00

Note:This list might be harsh, and I might lose my tween fan-base (and my good friend Anisa might stop reading too), but this comes from months, if not years, of pent-up frustration. I have kept quiet for too long. I’ve tried to give her the benefit of the doubt. I even made myself sit through the E! True Hollywood Story (or whatever that was). I can’t take it anymore!! She’s everywhere! She’s even invaded WAL-MART. I went in to get detergent & light bulbs the other day, and after seeing her face plastered all over the store, I walked out with a six-pack of Bud Light and some tequila! Lord help us All!

Top Ten things I would say to Miley Cyrus if I had the chance: *

10. Invest in some acting lessons. Hanna Montana isn’t going to be around forever, and soon you’re going to find out that “over-acting” only works for Jim Carrey & Will Farrell. Let’s face it…you’re not a middle-aged man!

9. YES, you have big lips--we get it. They’re big even when you don’t pucker up for EVERY SINGLE PHOTO. When you do that, it makes you look ridiculous.

8. You’re a role model for little girls, regardless of whether or not you want to be. So, although you’re only 16 and have every right to have fun, you need to act accordingly.

7. Acting like you’re having SPASMS while singing/performing on stage isn’t HOT or SEXY or CUTE, especially when you’re singing a song about being a “strong woman.”

6. Flashing the Peace Sign in pictures is for Rappers & Hippies. Last time I checked, you were a skinny white girl from Tennessee...please, cut it out.

5. Being called "The Next Britney Spears” is NOT a compliment. Before you make a decision, think to yourself “WWBD?” (What Would Britney Do?) and then DO THE EXACT OPPOSITE.

4. Dating a Jonas Brother is never going to get you any Street Cred! RUN AWAY, Miley, RUN AWAY!!

3. Who’s idea was the Stripper Pole at the TEEN Choice Awards? I reaaaally hope it wasn’t yours. Refer to #8. Then fire whoever suggested it in the first place.

2. Child Stardom is a slippery slope. One minute you’re on top of the world, the next minute you’re getting arrested for assaulting a male transvestite. Two Words: Danny Bonaduce. Just Sayin'

And the Number One thing I would say to Miley Cyrus if I had the chance:

1. Please, for the love of God & all that is Holy, PUT SOME CLOTHES ON already!

*After, of course, I got her autograph for my boss’s two little girls and took my picture with her…..sporting the Peace Sign, of course!

Please God, MAKE IT STOP...

2009-08-11T09:15:00.003-05:00

Don't even get me started....

For those of you who don't know what AWESOMENESS looks like...

2009-08-08T08:00:00.004-05:00

CLICK HERE.

FOUR Weeks, People!

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Password: guest

Obsession...

2009-08-06T08:00:00.001-05:00

If you've hung out with me at all in the last month or so, you know that I'm head over heels in love with this 'little' band called Kings of Leon. And even though he's a super-skinny pale guy from Tenessee, I'm afraid I've also come down with a bad case of Lead Singer Syndrome. (If you don't know what LSS is, think about it for a minute.....it's very serious!) Oh, those eyes!!

Lucky for me, my BFF Meghan & her hubby Chris have been very tolerant during this obsessive period in my life. From time to time, however, I sense that Meghan is fighting the urge to bitch-slap me back into reality. Thank you, Meghan, once again, for resisting the urge & putting up with my crazy brain.

I'm not even going to go into how one of their songs is my cell phone ringtone, or how I cannot go a single day without listening to their new album, or that I've done extensive research on the Internet to find out everything about them. Or that I bought tickets to see them in concert at Kansas City's brand new Sprint Center (October 13th PLEASE GET HERE SOON!) & that I'm currently plotting a way to get backstage --or at least front row in General Admission. Nope, not going to go into it.

Instead, I leave you with this link to their YouTube video of "Use Somebody" -probably my favorite song on their new album (tied with "Revelry"). Can you say AWESOME?!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCZfJ5ai07U

(Sorry, I tried to upload it, but I guess I'm not that savvy.)

Still, check it out! Love love love love them!

HELLLLLLOOOOO, ELI!

2009-08-05T11:07:00.003-05:00

Eli, Giants on verge of 6-year, $97.5M extension

The Manning family fortune is about to grow again.

The Giants and Super Bowl-winning quarterback Eli Manning are on the verge of completing a blockbuster six-year contract extension, FOXSports.com has learned.

The two sides are still tweaking some details of the deal, but the team is hoping to have the deal done Wednesday, barring any major setbacks, a team source says.

Manning, who was drafted first overall in 2004, is entering the last year of his rookie deal. The new agreement will tack on six additional years and $97.5 million, with $35 million guaranteed.
The deal will make the 28-year-old the highest-paid player in the history of the Giants organization as well as the highest-paid quarterback (per year) in NFL history, a figure Giants fans would probably not argue with.

Last season, Manning played in his first Pro Bowl after throwing 21 touchdowns passes and only 10 interceptions in leading the Giants to a 12-4 record. It was his best season in terms of passer rating (86.4), completion percentage (60.3) and fewest interceptions.

He became a legend in New York by winning the Super Bowl in the 2007 season, knocking off the then-unbeaten New England Patriots.

For the full story, go here.

Hi Eli, my name is Valerie....wanna go for drinks?? Wait, who's this chick and why is she wearing that white dress??

I swear..... I can't ever get a break!

Note to Self...

2009-08-03T11:30:00.002-05:00

When using a public restroom, it's wise to question why the "women's" restroom has urinals before you get into a stall, lock the door, and sit down to do your business.

(Oh yeah, I went in the wrong one. Totally Sober.)

Chew on THAT for a bit!

5 Short Weeks...

2009-08-01T09:33:00.003-05:00

...and it will be Husker Season!!
"Bo Pelini's wristwatch doesn't have numbers on it.
It simply says 'Time to Kick Ass.'"

I was so excited, I went out and got this Tattoo:

Um, I don't think so.

(But I AM excited!)

I hope to see plenty of THIS:

"That's what you get when you mess with SUH!!"

OH!! I forgot....

Can't wait to see you, Kirk! kiss-kiss!

Ahhh.....there is no place like Nebraska...

Viva La Vida!

2009-07-29T15:30:00.005-05:00

It's been brought to my attention that tomorrow will be one month to the day of my last blog post. I would apologize, but instead, I'll leave you with a couple of pictures, and a promise to write more. That's all I can do right now. This summer has been out-of-control busy, and I feel like I'm going BATSHIT Crazy. (Sorry for the curse word, but there's no other way to describe it.)
I was in in Milwaukee this weekend, visiting one of my long-time friends, her husband, and my reaaaaaalllly adorable God Son.

We didn't do much...

Just went sailing on Lake Michigan...

Got to see some {cute} Butts at the Brewers vs. Braves Game...

Hung out with Chris Martin & the Boys of Coldplay...

And cried like a baby when I had to leave...

Until next time...

(Mikala, you'd BETTER leave a comment!! :P )

Look what I did!

2009-06-30T14:26:00.005-05:00

I'm in the Green, Sarah in the Blue :)

I learned how to ride a Segway this weekend!! ...I have to admit, I was a little nervous a first, but once Sarah did it, I thought what the heck?!
The guy who taught us was a little creepy, but we ended up having a great time!!
Yeah for Sunday Funday!!

It's been two weeks...

2009-06-23T13:54:00.005-05:00

...and I should probably apologize for not posting. However, I've been a little preoccupied...

...You see, two weeks ago, these walked into my life...

...and they have completely consumed my life...

I shouldn't probably admit to you that I've:

-Ignored phone calls

-Skipped meals

-Stayed up past midnight on multiple week nights

-Avoided the gym

...Just to read these books...

...I will start the final book of the Twilight Saga tomorrow...

Hopefully, regularly scheduled programming will begin again once I'm done.

Otherwise, I'm moving to Forks...

...to look for Hot Vampires & Hunky Werewolves, of course!

Happy B-day, Ray-hole!!

2009-06-03T14:27:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to wish my lil' sister a very Happy 27th Birthday.

I can't believe she's 27!!

(Especially since I'm not a day over 25...hmm...)

This picture was taken at Christmas; for some reason I don't have any recent ones of us.

Don't worry, that will change this weekend...I'm heading to KC to celebrate with her!

Hope you have a great day, Rachie!!

Love you!!

I got tagged

2009-05-27T16:09:00.003-05:00

My lovely sister tagged me to do this picture thingy, so here it goes.
You're supposed to do the following:
1. Open the 4th picture folder on your computer
2. Open the 4th picture and post it on your blog
3. Explain the picture
4. Tag 4 people to do the same!

LMAO. Okay, so to "explain" the picture...I was at the first Husker Home Game last August, and had just purchased my digital camera the night before (Insert Choirs of Angels Singing --here). Anyway, the next day I was at this Husker Game (GO BIG RED!!)and snapped this picture.
I just remember thinking to myself..."that does NOT look comfortable for poor Lil' Red. It looks like it would squish his Man Parts." But, then I looked around and the only person to 'share' this with was my Father. I then decided that if I told my Dad my 'Man Parts' thought, he would do one of two things: 1) Look at me like I was being crazy/inappropriate/disgusting, or he would 2) Take it to another level, thus leaving me no choice but to sit there next to him and feel creeped out for the entire football game.
So, I said nothing, but got a good Inside Joke--with myself--about it. And now I'm sharing it with all of you! Nice.
Oh, to be inside this head of mine...I tell you what, it's entertaining!

I have to tag people now:
1. Meghan
2. Anne
3. Bridget
4. I don't want to tag anyone else.

Until next time....

Let's hear it for the Boys...Town!

2009-05-26T11:19:00.008-05:00

I ran in this race yesterday for Memorial Day. Although it was an early morning, this is how I felt about it:

I wanted to run this 5 mile race for a couple of reasons.
Ever since the 1/2 Marathon, I've been slacking. By slacking, I mean I may or may not be eating/drinking whatever I want, exercising/running whenever I want (read: hardly at all), and just overall not giving a rats-patootie about being healthy. (All of this right before swimsuit season!? SERIOUSLY!) Maybe I felt that after running 13.1 miles, I was 'entitled' to eat whatever I wanted to, or not work out whenever I wanted to. Reality is, folks, that race was THREE WEEKS AGO! Not to mention, studies prove a lack of eating healthy and exercising can lead to the Return of the Double Chin. (Note the above picture....he's coming back!) (Oh yeah, and that Study and it's result is REAL! It's a horrible epidemic!)

But my most important reason for running was something that hits close to home. From the above-mentioned website: "The Boys Town National Research Hospital Memorial Day Run benefits children with hearing loss and visual impairments. Funds raised at this event will benefit the Cochlear Implant Program and the Lied Learning and Technology Center for Childhood Deafness and Vision Disorders. Our goal is to improve the lives of children with hearing loss, visual impairment and other communication disorders through early identification, education, state-of-the-art rehabilitation, rigorous research, and family support."

My incredibly adorable nephew Hudson was born with 50% hearing loss in both ears. He now sports hearing aids to help him hear. When my sister & BIL were discovering all of this, they came to Boys Town National Research Hospital. They were able to get some tests done that answered their questions, and overall had a great experience.
So, this, along with my previous running experience & it seemed like a perfect match! Although my contribution was small, it was still wonderful to run & give to a cause that helps to enrich the lives of children, one that even helped my own family. After thinking of Lil' Huddy and what a blessing he is to our family, I couldn't help but want to give back! I mean, after seeing THIS face, wouldn't YOU want to do something to help?

(Man, is he cute!!)

Until next time...

*OH--yes, I have been meaning to post pictures of said 1/2 Marathon, but I haven't received any from mi familia (hint, hint):)*

I can tell it's Friday...

2009-05-15T13:12:00.004-05:00

...when I think this:

...and then after lunch, I start to think this:

I hope 5:00 comes quickly for all of you! Happy Weekend!

Busy weekend ahead!!

2009-05-01T14:11:00.008-05:00

Just wanted to write a little something before the weekend starts. As usual, it's going to be a busy one and I probably won't have much time to write...and I wanted to get a couple of things down on paper!

First, Happy Golden Birthday to my very cute, very stylish, bug lovin' little nephew!

He's such a nice little boy, and very smart! (Amazing how good qualities run in the family!) Here are some favorite Carter-isms or sayings of mine:
"Ant Ba-ra-ree is a-wer-gic to pick-o's. She TOLD ME." (Translation: "Aunt Valerie is allergic to pickles. She told me!")
"Just a YE-O bit" (Translation: "Just a little bit.")
"Will you come wook for bugs wiff me?"
"Ant Ba-ra-ree, YOU'RE HOT!!" (What a great kid!)
He loves to take pictures with my camera. A couple of my favorites:

(I'm the one on the right--LOL)

You're a great kid, Carter! Hope you have a wonderful birthday! I love you, YE-O Buddy!

Secondly, "the race" is happening in approximately 40 hours! (Not that I'm counting or anything!) I want to say thanks in advance to everyone that's encouraged me throughout this process! It's been interesting to say the least, and I'm actually looking forward to it! I really thought about attempting this at the finish line...

...but chances are, I won't be able to exert that much energy...we'll see.

You never know, I could meet the Love of my Life there...I picture him to look something like this: That's HOT!

Hope everyone has a great weekend! I'll post pictures next week!

Let's hope it goes better than this...

2009-04-22T13:02:00.000-05:00

Twenty Nine....and a Day

2009-04-15T13:15:00.002-05:00

I sit here, after celebrating my favorite “Holiday” and I’m not even bothered by the fact that I’m 29. TWENTY-NINE. This is the last year that I will be able to consider myself “a twenty-something,” and yet, I don’t think I could care less! Looking at my life, I feel pretty good about it. I own a home (by myself). I have a good job (thank goodness). I have a loving family, and amazing friends!! Life is pretty darn good! Still, I have my moments when life isn’t rainbows and butterflies, and realizing this, I thought I’d make a little list of what makes me feel “old” and what makes me feel “not-so-old.” Enjoy!!

Things that make me feel 29:

Hearing “Ma’am? Ma’am?” *I finally turn around when I realize that 16 year old is talking to ME.* “Can I help you find something?” (What, because I look so “old” now that I can’t find the bread aisle? Watch your back, punk.)

Seeing “Welcome Kindergartners Class of 2022” on the billboard outside of the school I live next to. (So, I’m going to be 42 when these kids graduate—from HIGH SCHOOL?)

Planning a night out on the town also involves clearing my schedule for the next day (Because the couch wants me to spend some quality time with it, of course!)

Training for a ½ Marathon. (“Why am I so sore that I can't move my extremities? Is that ‘normal?’”)

Being “responsible” by checking the Budget to see if I can squeeze in a little something extra for myself--like a MUCH needed brow waxing!

Varicose Veins, or as I like to call them: “Rainbow-Colored Legs.” (It just sounds more fun that way, right? )

Yelling at the neighbor kids: “Get off of my lawn!!” (I do it just to sound grown-up.)

Realizing that there’s a chance I could get arrested for the pranks I want to pull on people now. (Because a misdemeanor just doesn’t sound like a good idea at this point.)

Things that make me feel YOUNGER than 29:

Getting CARDED. At a Fish Fry. By a Knights of Columbus member wearing a funny hat.

Laughing at the funny hat. (WHAT?! Hats are funny.)

Adult Acne. (Do I really need to tell you that having pimples in your late twenties could be the reason you’re getting carded at Fish Fry’s? No, I don’t.)

Training for a ½ Marathon (Just for funsies, I might yell "bitches, move!" at the first people I pass that day. Granted, they'll be passing me later on, but it might be fun...)

Playing with my nephews and friends’ kids. (Nothing like looking for bugs and singing “I’m a little tea pot!” to make you feel like a kid again!)

Girl’s Nights!! Woo-hoo!!

Laughing whenever possible, and having fun…because age is just a number, right?!

*Special thanks to my parents, because without you & the things we won't mention here, I wouldn't be alive today.*

Because I'm ill & unoriginal...

2009-04-10T11:06:00.002-05:00

Hope everyone has a Happy Easter!

It's a nice day for a White Wedding

2009-04-03T08:32:00.006-05:00

I have been asked to be a bridesmaid my good friend’s wedding this coming November. I LOVE Sarah, and I love her fiancé Nate, and so I’m obviously honored and thrilled to be asked to be a part of their special day.

Last night Sarah’s MOH, Angie (who is another good friend of mine) & I went to try on bridesmaid dresses. I was dizzy from the giddiness of it all.

First, my friend is getting MARRIED. That in and of itself is exciting—I couldn’t be happier for her. We’ve known each other for almost 10 years, and have been through some GREAT times, and some times where we asked ourselves “what the hell were we thinking?!” Through it all, we’ve had fun, we’ve laughed, and we’ve become good friends. It’s been amazing to watch her find her mate, and begin this part of her life with him.

Second, I love PLANNING things. We all know that along with Weddings comes Showers and Bachelorette parties (yes, I said parties—what?!) I couldn’t be more eager to start helping with planning those. Vegas? Chicago? Podunk, Nebraska?? Ahhh…the possibilities are endless!!

Third, I love Weddings—every.single.cheesy. part of them. Even weddings of people I don’t know or am not involved in. Yes, I love sitting through a Catholic “Wow-how-long-is-this-going-to-take?” wedding, the outside “oh-crap-that-bee-is-getting-awfully-close-to-me” wedding, and the “make-this-quick-so-we-can-go-party” wedding. I just can’t help myself when the smell of LOVE and an open bar is in the air!!

I would say that overall, last night's excursion went rather well. We tried on some lovely dresses, had lots of fun, and to my surprise…

I even found MY wedding dress!!

(What lucky guy wouldn't want to snag THIS lovely lady?!)

Congrats again to Sarah & Nate! Let the fun begin!!

My First Race!

2009-03-30T13:17:00.004-05:00

I participated in my very first race this past weekend. State Farm (Lincoln) sponsors a 1 mile race for kids, a 5K for adults, and a 10 mile race for the really crazy people. Can you guess which one I did?? (NO---they wouldn't let me run with the kids.)

Yep, I signed up for the 10 mile! C-R-A-Z-Y!!

Anyway, I'm at the point in my training where I needed to run more than a 5K this weekend, so it just worked out that I was to run the 10 mile race!

Saturday morning rolled around and I was STRESSING. I don't normally run outside, and I'm a huge snob when it comes to cold weather. Forecast for Saturday? ---REALLY FREAKING COLD. I bundled up and hoped for the best.

My mom had to work, so my dad went with me. I told him what my goal time/pace was, and he looked at me like I was crazy---I think he thought my goal was pretty lofty for my first race. Still, I was on a mission and I wore my watch so I could track my pace the whole time!

The first three miles were strong and steady. I think my adrenaline kicked in and being around all of those other runners was exhilarating! Just after I passed the third mile marker, a guy on a bike (we were on an out and back trail) came through to tell us to move over to the right....there were runners coming back!! ALREADY??! WTH?? I couldn't help but laugh--my journey had only just begun, and there were people who were almost finished!

The second three miles were about the same. I met a lady that had the same intention with time and pace, so we stuck together. It was nice to have a motivator next to me...even if it was a random stranger!

Mile seven---I start hating my life. The question "What the hell was I thinking?" passed through my mind on several occasions. I had to slow down just a smidge...my legs were starting to get tired, and I just wasn't sure if I had the endurance to last another three miles. It got to the point where I was telling myself, "just get to mile 8, just get to the bridge, just make it to the street," etc. Anything to keep me motivated!

The race began and ended at the State Farm building--in between we were on the Mo-pac trail. Once I hit mile nine, I knew I had to kick in into gear--as much as I could, that is! I came off of the trail and onto the street. As I ran through the parking lot toward the finish line, I looked for my dad, thinking he'd be sitting in the car...he wasn't there. I looked over where the spectators were....and then I saw him. The look on his face was priceless. A mixture of pride and surprise. I really don't think he thought I'd finish in the time I had set out for myself. One more loop around the building before crossing the finish line... Papa Ron was cheering me on. By the time I had looped the building, he was on the other side, telling me to RUUUUNNNN!!!

So, I started sprinting--well, MY version of sprinting! I don't know where it came from, but I just took off! I crossed the finish line and it felt glorious! To top it all off, I had run 10 miles in just a smidge over my goal!

Now, I don't have any pictures to prove all of this took place, but here is my time, taken straight from http://www.lincolnrun.org/:
677 Valerie Omaha NE 28F 69/97 1:43:40

Yep, I was 677th place (out of 808), but I'll take it! Especially for my first race!!

After it was all done, I felt like this guy:

But then I grabbed water, an orange, and a donut hole and I told my Dad---"let's get the hell outta here! These people are crazy!" LOL

It was a great experience, unlike anything I've ever done before. Now, it's onto thinking about the 1/2 Marathon in less than 5 weeks. I have no idea where I'm going to pull an extra 3 miles from, but I'm sure going to try!!

Thanks to my friends & family for all of the support, encouragement, and crazy looks--all of that motivates me more than you know! Thanks to my mom for carb-loading me the night before, and taking me to get 'gear.' A really big Thanks to my dad for standing out in the freezing cold weather for almost 2 hours to motivate me, and watch me cross the finish line...it means more than you know!

Up next...the Lincoln 1/2!
Oh goodness, what have I gotten myself into??

Ode To Meghan

2009-03-28T15:00:00.000-05:00

Yes folks, it’s true, today I’m braggin’
A little story --about my BFF Meghan!
We met ten years ago during college-
At the lovely University of No Knowledge!
Brought together by pink pigs and carnations
The bond we made was really life-changin’!
We played slip and slide in the rain with the boys-
Who knew that mud and grass would be such great toys?
We had some ‘injuries’ and mishaps, some that weren’t swell,
But out of it came great stories, krimped hair, and Mission: Taco Bell
Those times we spent laughing and being so silly
All led up to us being like family!
My mom didn’t know her first name, cuz we called her Kahler
My dad thought she was nutty, and coined her pot –smoker!
Before she left college, she met a boy named Chris;
Who knew a lightning bolt necklace would lead to all of this?!
She overachieved & graduated early,
I cried when she left because I am so girly!
We met back in O-town, when I was done with school,
Those months were ‘da bomb’- we thought we were so cool!
Then the time came when she had to go,
To ‘see about that boy’ in San Antonio
We packed up her Budget truck and said our good-byes,
I hoped it wasn’t forever—I’m always the one who cries!
A couple of years went by and without her, it was tough
But she was falling in love, and we all know that’s good stuff!
When Chris popped The Question, I knew it was true,
He even put little tuxes on Taco and Brew-Brew!
I flew down to see them, and what did I get?
Asked to be her ‘Maid’—to which I said “YOU BET!”
We picked out her wedding dress the very next day,
We went into Planning Mode—get outta our way!
A couple months later, I picked up the phone
I jumped for joy when she said they were moving home!
The wedding was gorgeous, so much fun to be had,
I was so proud of my best friend and her future ahead.
We became closer than ever, and Chris & I too,
Sometimes, though he’s kidding, he calls me Wife #2!!
October ’07 they sent me a notice,
Too bad I missed my plane and was stuck in Las Vegas.
This notice, you see was not just any other note
It said to pack up my toothbrush, contact case and extra coat!
They were having a baby, and I had to “move out,”
Their spare bedroom was now needed for someone with clout
Along came lil’ Heidi, the cutest baby ever
They even asked me to be her Godmother!
She got her mom’s scowl, dad’s lips but no freckles
I guess we’re just hoping that she will have ankles!
To watch Meghan with her daughter has given me such joy,
I can’t even imagine if Heidi were a boy!
And though our lives are crazy and in much different places,
We both do our best to make time & see each other’s faces!
Our friendship is solid, and she’s my best pal,
Because she’s my friend, I’ll say ALL sure is well!
So, Happy Birthday, dear Meghan, lovely friend of mine.
May this be the best year of all….Here’s to Year “Twenty-Nine!!”

I love you Meghan!

An Update...

2009-03-06T10:52:00.002-06:00

About a Ka-jillion “Butts,” “Darn its,” and “Stupid-heads” later, I think I’m doing pretty well on my Lenten Promise. It’s been harder than I thought, that’s for sure! I have been known to use cuss words in every day conversation, and for the most part, I’ve done pretty good at cutting out the unnecessary swear words. However, there are a few situations I get myself in where I don’t know how else to prove my point other than to curse. (I feel like I'm dealing with a little kid..."Use your words, Valerie. Use your words...")

I’m also having trouble deciding whether or not A$$ is a “bad” word. That one flows pretty freely from my mouth. When I try to justify the use of that word, I feel like I’m back in High School, telling my parents “Well, if it’s used in the Bible, it can’t be THAT bad, right?!” (Ah, good times when you’re “the rebel” growing up in a Catholic household!)

When I have a few drinks, it’s even harder to watch my mouth. So, I’ve been cutting back (at least a little bit) on the ice cold heavenly beverages so I can keep good on my promise. That is, until St. Patty’s Day rolls around and the cutting back does not apply. (Who cares if I’m German & Czech? I’m IRISH on that day! Woot Woot!)

So, the quest for less of a potty mouth continues. Thanks to the friends who call me out when I slip up, and thanks to the people who don’t make fun of me when I catch myself saying things like “Holy smokes, that guy was a total stupid-head! I can’t believe he just flippin’ said that ridiculously, lame-butt thing to me! Who the *pause* does he think he is?? Jeez Louise!!”

Until next time...

OH $#%^!!!

2009-02-26T12:10:00.003-06:00

I gave up cussing/swearing/using bad words for Lent. I am 125% positive that it’s going to be tough. However, I knew it was necessary when a co-worker/friend of mine said, “So, you’re REALLY making this hard for yourself this year, aren’t you?!?” Another indicator-- I was leaving Ash Wednesday MASS, some guy cut me off and I started to say, “You Jack---!!” My mother would probably agree that it's a good move as well...

Just to warn you, this basically means I can no longer have candid conversations with my best friend - or ANY of my friends for that matter - nor can I have anymore incidences with the treadmill (see below). It doesn’t help that I’m always running late and occasionally clumsy….which usually leads to a variety of 4 letter words or a “bleepity bleep bleep bleep” sort of combination. I might have to get creative in how I verbalize my frustrations now!!

I’m still trying to decide “punishment” for saying bad words… Suggestions are welcome, but keep in mind I don’t ever have cash on me (to put money into a jar) nor do I want to put a rubber band on my wrist and snap it when I slip up. I’m still trying to come up with something!

Wish me luck! It’s going to be a long, long Lenten Season…

Did ya miss me?

2009-02-24T12:27:00.004-06:00

After SEVERAL comments about being a MAJOR SLACKER when it comes to blogging, I've decided to write...something! I know that you don't want excuses, just witty stories and the occasional "Duh--did she really do that?!" kinds of anecdotes, so I will try not to disappoint. I do, however, have to tell you that my computer at home has a few HUNDRED nasty viruses, and I'm patiently waiting for my tax return to hit my bank account so I can afford to get it fixed. That's just ONE of the reasons for the lack of blogging...which I find extremely legitimate! (But, Meghan my BFF, I WILL come over and drink that "icky" Bud Light that is chilling in your beer fridge. I wouldn't want you to get sick from drinking that "nasty" deliciousness. Let me pack a snack and I'll head out to WEST Omaha--STAT.)
So, in an attempt to get back into your good graces and hopefully make you laugh, I decided to tell you all an embarrassing story about yours truly. Most of you have heard the following story, but I thought I'd share it with the masses-- LOL, sometimes I like to flatter myself by thinking lots of people read this--hahahaha. Anywho, this is a little story from about two weeks ago that I like to call:
"The Treadmill Hates you, So Just Go Home" --ENJOY!
I went to the gym at 5:30 this morning to run because I’m getting my hair cut tonight and won't have a chance to go afterward. As you probably know, I'm not a morning person. Not at all. But, I knew that I had to go in this morning, otherwise it would throw off my training schedule.
I’m running on the treadmill, and my wispy hair is getting in my face. Because of the lovely scratched corneas I've been dealing with for two weeks now, I’m wearing my glasses, which are not fun to wear, let alone try to work out in them. My headphones are plugged into the machine so things are just distracting and everywhere. Well, I go to “gracefully” get my hair out of my face (yep, start laughing now) and my entire body shifts. I end up stepping (with my right foot) onto the side part of the treadmill that isn’t moving, and my left foot obviously can’t keep up with the speed of the treadmill all by itself so the left side of my body starts to lose balance, and go ‘back’ (the direction of the treadmill). I try to regain balance and stride and get my right foot back onto the treadmill, but by then it’s too late, the treadmill is taking control. This “whoa whoa whoa” sort of a noise comes out of my mouth, my arms are flailing, trying to regain balance. I continue to slide completely off of the treadmill, sideways, and onto the floor---all the while my headphones are still attached to the base of the machine, and on my head.
Luckily, I didn’t ever fall on my knees or rear or anything like that, but still embarrassing, nonetheless…Also, keep in mind that it’s 5:45 a.m. so I’m not at my most awake moment as is, but then this happens. And of course, the gym is pretty darn full with all of the 'regular' morning over-achievers.
One of the funniest parts of the whole experience was the reaction from the girl on the treadmill next to me. She was obviously a runner. By that I mean, skinny, had all of the 'gear' and she was farting...pretty much the entire time. BTW, farting is a serious problem at the gym. People do it at the most inappropriate times too…like when you’re in a crowded kickboxing class with no air movement. The worst is the skinny runners—because you know they fill their bodies with that organic stuff and we all know what that does to the digestive system!! So as I'm losing major control of what is happening on the treadmill, and "gracefully" land on my feet after getting thrown off, the smelly farting girl next to me says something like “wow, that was crazy!” and keeps right on running! WTF?! I expected her to maybe say "Are you okay?" or "Don't worry that happens to me all the time!" (I would say something like that to make someone feel better, but apparently, she wasn't in the empathetic mood.)
After collecting myself, I get back on the treadmill (which never stopped) and start running again, pretty much laughing the rest of the time I’m on there. After, my ankle felt a little raw, but nothing a few dozen aspirin and some ice won't take care of, right?
I found this cip on Youtube and although it isn't what happened to me (this girl looks like she's had a few cold beverages), it's super funny!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqQGT8bZt5I

Sorry if this is a repeat for some of you. I have other stories, but just thought that you would enjoy this one, and it would hold you over for now. I promise to be better about blogging. I have tons of pictures and plenty of stories to tell, so stay tuned!

Episode Three

2009-01-21T14:58:00.002-06:00

One word to describe the first hour of TBL:

ANNOYING.

Did we REALLY need to see those two ladies fighting for 30 minutes? REALLY?! If I wanted to watch two women fighting like that, I would trek my happy ass to a Walmart on a Saturday afternoon and let the entertainment begin. Or, I would turn on my TV and watch that train-wreck that is The View.

(I firmly stand by my opinion that Daytime Television is Insulting. I even won that round of Apples to Apples when I used that adjective to describe it as such. UGH)

I can’t STAND watching people argue, especially when it’s on TV. I just want to yell, SHUT THE HELL UP! Anyway, on with the show…

Funniest Moment: Blaine (Black Team) dragging Jillian across the gym and out the door and right on to her tukas. I’m sure he didn’t mind having to do 5 more reps…that would’ve been worth it!!

Most Heart-breaking Moment: Stephanie (Purple) losing the challenge (and immunity). She really wanted it because she wants to make sure she can bring her partner back. Way to go, Tara (Green) on winning (again!)…Two hours and 15 minutes of that?! I was tired just watching you!

Biggest Twist: Jillian’s team deciding to vote off Damien (Red) instead of Joelle (Silver). They said it was for Carla, who deserves to get back to the Ranch, but I think that’s a load of crap. They saw Damien as the bigger threat, since all Joelle wants to do is sit on her butt!! I thought Ron (Brown) was going to lose it! It’s ON now, people!

That’s all I’ve got for this episode, considering most of it was consumed by the Detroit Throw-down. Stay tuned for next week’s episode, when they have to eliminate one of the two youngest contestants on the show, Mike (Brown) & Dan (Orange). Should be a tear-jerker!

Lemon Pepper Tuna over Pasta
*Courtesy of the backside of the Zesty Lemon Pepper Tuna pouch! It’s awesome & super low in calories!!

Ingredients:

1 pouch StarKist Zesty Lemon Pepper Tuna
8 oz. Pasta
1/2 tsp. Garlic, chopped
Dash Thyme leaves (optional)
1 cup French cut green beans
2 Tbsp. Olive oil
1/2 cup Red bell pepper, cut into strips
1/2 cup Green bell pepper, cut into strips
Dash Salt (optional)

Directions:
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and keep warm. In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and peppers to hot oil and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until peppers are tender-crisp. Add green beans, tuna, thyme and salt. Heat for an additional 1-2 minutes or until hot. Add pasta and heat.

Prep Time: 1-2 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Serves: 2

The Biggest Loser, Episode 2

2009-01-15T16:00:00.000-06:00

Belated Birthday Wishes...

2009-01-15T15:45:00.000-06:00

Pretend it's Tuesday...I'm only behind because of my computer... that and I'm "busy" doing blog-worthy things:) LOL--not really, unless you want to know that I almost fell off the treadmill a couple of days ago. I tell you what, that is the LAST time I try to check out "Really-Hot-Gym-Guy" while 'simply' trying to put one foot in front of the other. Lesson Learned!

Happy Belated Birthday to Shanni Pants!

Here are a few pictures from the Bowling Extravaganza aka. Shannon's Birthday Party. My favorite part of the evening was when the 'lovely' gentleman in charge of the shoe rental got on the loud speaker and said "We do not allow flash photography in the bowling alley." (Yep, three seconds after I snapped a few pics....I'm such a trouble-maker!)

WHAT?! Is there someone famous here that I should know about?! ...or am I going to distract the 258 High School Kids in the lane next to me so badly that they only hit 4 pins instead of 5 this time around?? Whatever!

This pic is from the karaoke portion of the evening...Shannon rocked the house!

Golden Globes!!

2009-01-14T10:29:00.003-06:00

Pretend it’s Monday…I’m still having issues with my computer at home…UGH

I LOVE LOVE LOVE award show season!! The dresses, the red carpet shenanigans, the acceptance speeches, Leonardo---It makes my world go round!! (Make fun all you want…) You can find me on my red couch throughout the months of January & February--watching the celebrities get all glammed up, and flat out enjoying what is award show season. I even will put up with that annoying Ryan Seacrest, because I truly believe that E! has the best Red Carpet coverage. Now THAT is taking one for the team! (That dude is EVERYWHERE!)

The Golden Globes were last night, and overall, I was a little disappointed. I still loved every minute of it, but something was missing. Here’s my take on the GG’s:

Best Acceptance Speech: Tina Fey, hands down. I have to say that the highlight of the entire evening was Tina Fey telling three individual Internet haters to “Suck It!”

Best Dressed, Female: Kate Winslet, who walked away with TWO Golden Globes for two different roles in two different movies. She was STUNNING.

Best Dressed, Male: Leonardo DiCaprio—I can’t believe it. I fell in love with him over 10 years ago, but since then have drifted a bit. After Sunday, I do believe that I’ve fallen in love with him all over again!

Worst Dressed, Female: I hate to say this, but Elizabeth Banks. I think she’s one of the funniest actresses out there, but this dress is ALL-WRONG for her. The hair clip?! Really?!

Worst Dressed, Male: Tracy Morgan. I don’t know what he was thinking by wearing that white Tux, but it looked horrible. He might as well have worn one of the outfits from Dumb & Dumber….I’m sure he made Lloyd and Harry proud.

For more on the Golden Globes, go here.

Two weeks until the SAG Awards, people! I love this one more than the Globes because it’s voted on by the actors, and is in general, a little more laid-back. I’m hoping for funnier acceptance speeches, and just overall more FUN among the actors. Can’t wait!

Enjoy yourself a six-pack!

2009-01-09T15:40:00.008-06:00

I might have told a few of you about one of my absolute FAVORITE blogs, June Cleaver After A Six Pack. Not sure how I originally found this blog, but after reading a few of her posts, I was hooked! She's a military wife and mother of 4 cute kiddos. Oh, did I mention she's FREAKING hilarious?

Through the power of the internet, I learned that June and I have a lot in common--we both live in the Big O, we love Jesus, we thoroughly enjoy cold alcoholic beverages, and enjoy our hobby of looking at 'swoon-worthy' men. Along with our wacky sense of humor, what more could you ask for in a Blogging BFF!?!?

Anyway, I think I mentioned that I was single, and June's 'had my back' ever since then. (Married folk sure do love trying to hook a single friend up!) There sure has been a lot of talk about this camo-wearing single guy...

Well, June's Hubby is back from the desert to spend some QT with his family. Since she wants to spend her time with him while he's back, she's featuring other bloggers on her site. Here's how the email went:

JUNE: Valerie-funny story,...I love your blog and think you are a hoot so if it is Okay with you, I would like to post your 1999/2009 post in the next couple of days. It was wayyy too funny!

Also, Can I add one of your pics? My 5-yeah, that's right-FIVE male readers would enjoy how cute you are.

ME: Absolutely! Do whatever you like....I'm a sucker for someone who compliments me! And feel free to add a picture.....as long as there isn't the sentence "SWF looking for SWM to take long walks on the beach and candlelight dinners with" underneath of it:) LOLOL

Um, yeah. I should've know better than to give this brilliant lady ammunition. Honestly, VP--come on! LOL

Head on over to the Six Pack and check out June's comments.....and the (ahem) lovely pictures of me. I really need to think harder about the pictures I post of myself....

As if the show needed any more drama!

2009-01-08T15:23:00.003-06:00

Biggest Loser Arrested For Flour Throwing (courtesy of www.wxyx.com)

CENTER LINE, Mich. (WXYZ) - A Macomb County woman who is competing on the current season of "The Biggest Loser" television show has been charged with domestic violence. Shanon Thomas is accused of throwing flour in the face of her tenant.

Court records show the incident happened December 16. Thomas was arrested and arraigned on Tuesday. Thomas is accused of yelling at the tenant to lower the volume on his television, breaking some Christmas tree bulbs, and then throwing flour at the man. The tenant, Michael Nolden, has since moved out of the basement room he was renting.

During her arraignment, Thomas appeared surprised by the allegations. She told the judge that Nolden threw a pan in her direction and "he told me to get a pizza" because she was on the show. The judge entered a not guilty plea on her behalf.

This isn't Thomas' first run-in with the law. Court records show that in 2004 she was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving in Royal Oak. Thomas pleaded guilty to operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, and was put on 12 months probation and fined $1,345. Reports from the Macomb Daily also indicate that she had other legal troubles earlier in her life. She now faces up to 93 days in jail on the domestic violence charges. A trial day has not been set.

Thomas is competing as one of the 11 "couples" teams on NBC's weight-loss show, along with her mother. It premiered last night. During the show it was revealed that nine of the contestants would be sent home to try and lose weight, while their partners remained at the show's complex. Shanon's mother and partner Helen Phillips were chosen to remain in Los Angeles.

Kind of reminds me of something Lil' Ang used to say in college: "If there's one thing you can count on in life, it's people being weird."

So true, Lil' Ang. So true.

Weight-loss Wednesdays!

2009-01-07T10:21:00.002-06:00

Welcome to “The Biggest Loser Wednesdays!” Tune in each Wednesday to hear my ‘Water Cooler Talk’ about The Biggest Loser episode from the night before! You’ll get my “expert” opinion on who’s “In It To Win It,” who’s on my “Not So Favorite List,” and my predictions for future episodes! Feel free to comment!

Disclaimer #1: I want to let everyone know that I can be a softie when watching TBL. I hear that song at the beginning and I immediately start tearing up. (I think I was on the verge of crying 4 times within the first 15 minutes!) I’m not only inspired by these people wanting to make a change, I’m proud of them! I know from personal experience that it takes a serious commitment to lose weight, and each of those people are making it by being on the Ranch! Props to them!
Disclaimer #2: I’m free to change my mind halfway in to the season or even a couple of episodes into it. I’m a woman, you know! We’re entitled to change our minds whenever we want!

Episode 1
This season was advertised as THE BIGGEST SEASON YET….and we were not let down. The biggest lady to ever join the show, Carla, weighed in at a whopping 394 lbs. Then there’s Daniel, the biggest contestant of all time, weighing in at 454 at 19 years old! Did you see Jillian’s face when he weighed in?? I thought she was going to gallop right outta there!! Those trainers definitely have their work cut out for them!

Tugs at the Heart Strings: Daniel, the biggest contestant to join TBL. I don’t know if it’s because he’s so young or he is TRULY there to change his life, but his sincere motivation to lose weight and change his life makes my heart melt.
Jerry, the retired grandpa, who collapsed before even working out. His reaction on the scale after he lost 25 lbs. was priceless. I don’t know if I see him winning it all, but again, he’s one that’s there for the right reasons!

Early Favorites: Tara, from the Green Team. She’s a spit –fire! I know she’s there to not only change her life, but to WIN IT! I see traces of Ali (Season 5 winner) in Tara.
Mike, from the Brown Team. He might be the silent competitor. Granted, he didn’t lose as much as his Dad this first week, but at 18 years old, I think he has the most potential to do really great things.

Biggest Twist: Nine people were sent home to compete on their own. Their only hope of returning is if their teammate is still on the ranch in 30 days. Black and Brown were the only teams to be kept together.

Val’s Honorable Mention: Yellow Team, sisters Aubrey & Mandi. They lost the challenge by a hair, but the effort was unbelievable. Red Team, engaged couple Nicole and Damien. I like their attitude…also fierce competitors.

Less than Impressed: Laura (Green Team). I know it hurts, and Jillian is a tough trainer, but QUIT WHINING! Did you see the fact that your partner (Tara) PUKED while running on the treadmill and KEPT GOING?! Not to mention, there are thousands of people that would trade places with you, and want the opportunity you have to be on that show!
Carla (Silver Team)—it was decided that Carla would go home, leaving Joelle on the ranch. At the ‘non-elimination’ elimination, Carla said that whether or not she gets to come back to the Ranch in 30 days will be “a true test of our friendship.” Seriously? You would no longer be friends with your ‘Best Friend’ if she didn’t make it through 30 days on the Ranch? That’s ridiculous!

Alright folks, that’s my take on the first episode. Tune in next week when Bob apparently goes APE-$%%T on one of the contestants!

(Bear with me, these posts will get better with time, I promise.)

Hiccup!

2009-01-06T10:57:00.003-06:00

I know I haven't been blogging like I said I would, but it's NOT (entirely) MY FAULT. My computer at home has a virus, I think. Or, as I like to live in la-la land sometimes, it just needs a couple days of rest. (I'm going with that because I don't have money to fix a broken computer right now!)

But stay tuned for tomorrow's post. In order to achieve NaBloPoMo, and keep up with the theme of the month, I am going to do a weekly post regarding one of my favorite shows, The Biggest Loser! The new season starts tonight, 8/7C on ABC! So excited!

I want to leave you with a quote that I saw yesterday. Take from it what you will...

"What if the Hokey Pokey really IS what it's all about?"

(Chew on THAT! LOL)

Party like it's 1999?? I don't think so!

2009-01-03T22:03:00.007-06:00

I went and had a few beers last night with an old college friend. I had run into him a few weeks ago while slinging the bling at the jewelry store, and he mentioned making more of an effort to hang out in 2009. Needless to say, we're starting out on the right foot.

Just to clear a couple of things up: yes, I said HE, but this doesn't mean that it was a date (we both clearly established that before meeting up) and secondly, it wasn't just me that he wanted to hang out with more in 2009...it was all of the wonderfully amazing people I hang out with. Last night it just so happened to be the two of us. NOT A DATE...again, just to clear things up so I'm not getting any random phone calls asking what's up.

Leaving the bar last night, I couldn't help but think about how much has changed from the first time I hung out with this dude. Now, I couldn't tell you the first EXACT time we hung out, but I do remember the two of us being at a lot of the same parties at UNK. Here are a few differences I've noticed from going out back then, to going out today.

1999: Boy No. 1 tells Boy No. 2 that they should throw a party. Boy No. 2 tells girl whom Boy No. 1 likes that there's a 3rd Floor Toga party at the Tappa Mega Kegga house. (Don't get the wrong impression here. I'm probably Girl No. 1's BFF in this situation.)
2009: Text message from one friend to another saying: "Wanna grab a beer tonite?"

1999: Wear toga without a coat, regardless of below 0 temp because "a coat just doesn't 'GO' with this outfit!"
2009: Wear jeans, turtleneck, boots, coat, scarf & gloves because "It's FREAKING cold out there!"

1999: Strategically plan how to be fashionably late, which would be around 10:00p.m.
2009: Wonder why the hell he wants to wait until 10:00p.m. to go out...Isn't that kind of late?!

1999: Figure out who can buy beer, because you're not quite 21.
2009: Get really offended that the bouncer doesn't ask if he can look at your ID. Make him look at your ID anyway, and act like you're just trying to be funny.

1999: Worry that if you talk to the same person all night, everyone will think you're DATING.
2009: Worry that if you don't talk to the same person all night, the creepy guy at the bar will come over and use the "Come here often?" pick up line.

1999: Conversation consists of who's dating who, and that Microbiology Class SUCKS (because it does). If it's a Thursday night, convince underclassmen that all Friday classes are canceled (just for funsies).
2009: Conversation consists of gas prices, health benefits, job transfers, and mortgage payments.

1999: It's Midnight and even though you hear your father's voice in your head reminding you: "Nothing good happens after Midnight," you think "What the hell was he talking about?!" and keep on partying!
2009: It's Midnight and you've only been at the bar for two hours, but you think "I should really go home. It's getting late!"

1999: NUMEROUS beers later, you go to bed when the sun comes up. You wake up around noon, and after a greasy burger and a shower you feel like a million bucks. You're ready to go again!
2009: You only had two beers, you went to bed before 1:00 a.m. This morning when you woke up around 8 a.m. you took four aspirin, showered, drank a soda, and used every "trick in the book" and you STILL feel like crap. You're willing to pay someone a million bucks to make the nauseous feeling in your stomach go away.

Ahh...how times have changed! I wouldn't trade the experiences I had in college for anything in the world, and to be really honest, I feel good where I'm at today as well. Not to say that I don't want other things to happen over the course of my life, or hopefully in the near future. I just want to be okay with each stage of my life.

Regardless of whether or not I get carded:)

Happy 2009!!

2009-01-02T21:37:00.006-06:00

Just wanted to share a few pics from NYE 2009. 'Tammy' got to come out and play, courtesy of the ROCKSTAR red dress that my lil' sis Rachie got me for Xmas!
I had a few problems opening the champagne right before midnight...too many rounds of P & A and Tippy Cup!

It started out okay...

Putting some "muscle" into it!

Trying to act patient...

Now I'm thinking the bottle is winning the battle...

V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!!

BEAR & ME

Nikki & my CLOSE-UP!

"Do you guys have any clothes on?"

The funniest couple I know:)

Mike, Char, Bob-cat & Sue

Sorority Pose!

Season of Change

2009-01-01T09:00:00.002-06:00

This past football season was one of big changes for my Huskers. First and foremost, the firing of WhatsHisFace and the hiring of my buddy, Bo Pelini (enter ‘choir of angels' sound effect *here*). In all of the changes he made, questionable or not, he had the respect and support of the Husker fans….something WHF didn’t.
Coach Pelini has passion. Passion for his players, and passion for the game of football. Personally, I LOVED when he’d get fired up on the sidelines. Some may argue that he lost a game or two for us because of his temper. But tell me that watching him yell four letter words to the refs didn’t get you fired up, and I’ll call you a liar. It’s that kind of passion that made his players know they had someone on their side. Talk about change from the previous four years!
Coach made some tough decisions along the way: He switched Cody Glen from offense to defense. He held onto the coveted Blackshirts until the defense truly earned them. The captains changed every game, and were decided on by the Team. {The "permanent" captains were elected at the end of the regular season, and the ones picked were honored, surprised and very deserving. Maybe that's how it should be.} But with all of the changes that Bo Pelini made, his decision NOT to change who was calling the offense, Shawn Watson, was one of the smartest choices made this season. (It’s my blog, I can say what I want to.) Because while change is usually a good thing, sometimes it has to be gradual and in small doses.
Pelini knew that defense needed to be the main focus this season. That’s one of the reasons T.O. decided to bring him on instead of Turner Gill. (It’s not a race thing, Charles Barkley. Plain and simple, it’s just NOT.) He also knew that he had a great leader in quarterback Joe Ganz (*infatuation sigh*) and a team determined on focusing on the future, not on the past. I think that’s probably the best way to make change happen, don’t you?
Do we have a ways to go before we’re competing in another national championship? Absolutely. But looking back at this season, I think we’re making some very important strides in the right direction. And that makes me excited for the future.
Today the Huskers will play in the Gator Bowl, or as Larry the Cable Guy would call it, the “Gat’r Done Bowl” against Clemson. Cheers to the Seniors, who will play their last game in the Husker uniform. It’s been a turbulent four years, and you guys are proof to the younger guys that if you stick around long enough, good things will happen.

GOOOOOOOOO BIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGGGGGGGGGGGG REEEEEEEEEEEED!!

Sidenote: Since the them of the month is change, I'd like to send out a request to Coach Pelini to change his choice in Nebraska sweatshirts every once in a while. A red one might be nice...(?) Just a thought. (I may love football, but I'm still a girl, and have fashion on the brain from time to time!)

A New Challenge!

2008-12-31T13:00:00.001-06:00

So, I’m going to try this out. It’s called NaBloPoMo, and it stands for National Blog Posting Month. Basically, you post an entry on your blog every day for a month. “That’s all you have to do.” I’m usually up for a challenge (unless it involves Gladiators of some sort), so why not?
The theme for January is CHANGE, although per the NaBloPoMo website, “Blogging on the theme is always optional.” I’m going to attempt to expand my writing skills by blogging about things that have changed, things that will change, things I’ve successfully and unsuccessfully tried to change, and things that I don’t want changed---in all aspects of life. Then there will be the random, miscellaneous things here and there….I’ve got 31 days, people! Hope you enjoy!

The Ultimate “To Do” List:

2008-12-30T14:05:00.004-06:00

I am a big fan of New Year’s Resolutions. I try to make a few every year, and encourage others to do so as well. I try not to promote the typical “lose 10 pounds” or “be nicer to the annoying, creepy guy at work” resolutions –although those two things are always in the back of my mind. Nope, I try to think of ‘different’ things to put on the list:
One year, it was my goal to take better care of my car. Two accidents and boo-koo bucks later, I did not necessarily achieve the goal set out.
Another year, right after college, I decided to give the people at my credit union a break from me calling them to check my balance every day and tried my darned-est to keep that pesky checkbook balanced at all times. Let’s just say, I really regretted falling asleep during Personal Money Management 101! (What can I say? It was right after breakfast and I was SLEEPY!)
Oh, and I tried to give up cussing one year. I’m still wondering what the hell I was thinking THAT year. I didn’t last 20 minutes! (They shouldn’t make you start your NY Reso’s until AFTER the Husker Bowl game!)
…So, I’ve had a few failures, but I’ve also had a few triumphs, and that is why I still make them, without fail, every year.
In an effort to hold myself accountable, I’m posting 2009’s Resolutions on here, and underneath are suggestions on how to bring them to fruition. ‘Cuz we all know I need to have “A Plan.”
Here goes nothing…

1. Stop the squirrels from crapping on the patio and patio furniture.
a. Buy a BB gun and a scary mask.
2. Stay awake during Father “Really-Old-Guy’s” Homilies on Sundays.
a. Buy some No-Doze.
b. Start shouting “AMEN!” at random times throughout the service.
3. Make room in the budget for DVR so you don’t have to hear “It will CHANGE YOUR LIFE” one more time.
a. Create a budget. (Hmmm...)
b. Stop spending money on booze. (hahahahaha, that's funny.)
c. Give up dying your hair (Seriously, where do I come up with these ridiculous thoughts?)
d. Become friends with a Cable Guy (ding!ding!ding!)
4. Develop better comebacks when people ask you why you’re still single.
a. “My therapist says it’s because I don’t like men that talk or have an opinion. He’s an idiot.”
b. “I’m not single, I just choose not to talk about Larry, Jeff, Steve & Harold. I get confused.”
c. “I’m trying to be the next Carrie Bradshaw, minus the big city, nice clothes, and endless opportunities to meet hot, available men.”
d.“Cats are better companions.” (Sick)
5. Run/Compete in a few 5k’s or ½ Marathons
a. Run Forrest, RUN!
b. Buy oxygen tank & Heel-y’s
6. Pay off my Target Visa (Retail therapy after break-ups can be expensive and dangerous… I don’t recommend it unless you actually have cash.)
a. Ask ex-boyfriend to pay it off….it’s his fault (again, the crazy thoughts! I need meds.)

b. Sling some more bling.
c. Garage Sale (hopefully it will be more successful than the last one. Work on Marketing strategy.)
7. Make the house homey-er….and not in the O.G. sort of way.
a. Commit to colors & paint the bedrooms (You can do it!)
b. Cut down the scary bush in front of the house
c. Find a lawn boy
d. Pump up the kiddie pool and have a pool party! Woo-hoo!
8. Keep the blog updated, for your own sanity and enjoyment of others!
a. One per week, even if it’s crap.
Looks like I’ve got a decent list started, but first things first: I’ve got one more day or so to get my 2008 Reso’s accomplished…..
Where’s that creepy, annoying co-worker of mine? I should probably tell him that he did a good job on the TPS reports and that Friday is Hawaiian Shirt Day….

Happy New Year!

D'OH!

2008-12-15T13:36:00.003-06:00

Please don't go to Lincoln to support me on May 4th, 2009. It's a Monday and I will probably either be in the Hospital or my bed resting.

Instead, come support me run the 1/2 Marathon on Sunday, May 3rd, 2009. (It was incorrect in my last post--sorry!)

Apparently, the days and dates change every time you enter into a new year. Oh yeah, it's at 7:00 a.m. Just meet me at the finish line around 2:00 p.m. (5 hours for 13.1 miles sounds about right, huh?!j/k) If I have to get up that early, I'd better get a free T-shirt.

Another sidenote: the normal (meaning not late) registration deadline is my birthday, April 14th. I think this is meant to be!

MasterCard's got NOTHING on me!!

2008-12-11T14:07:00.005-06:00

Beat up Jeep Cherokee....... $1,000.00
Bungee Cords to keep the doors shut...... $4.00
Gas to go 'Cruising'.....$25.00
Red Car Paint......$7.00

Letting your parents know how you REALLY feel about your P.O.S. Car......

PRICELESS!

Want another one?? Here it is...

Baby Skull Tee from Target’s Kid’s section ……$10.00
Stone-washed, tapered jeans from Goodwill…..$4.00
Beer (aka. 'Courage') to get up on stage to sing Karaoke…..$12.00

Finding out AFTER your rendition of “Please don't go Girl" that your zipper was down the whole time……

PRICELESS!

*Real pictures taken by me! I swear, this stuff FINDS me!*

I am still here!

2008-12-10T13:23:00.001-06:00

(Or else you’d be getting a call for bail money)

I have been on a bit of a hiatus from blogging. I absolutely LOVE blogging, and I want to continue to blog until I run out of things to blog about. (Yeah, right people! That’s never going to happen!) There are several reasons as to why the blog has taken a back seat, and I’d say that mostly all of those reasons are relevant. So, I’ll start with the top three:

THE HOLIDAYS—For the most part, I love the Holidays. Thanksgiving has to be one of my favorite (It’s a close second to April 14th…most of you reading should know what that day signifies and it’s NOT “the day before tax day.” Well, it is. It’s just something else of importance.) Turkey Day is up there on the list of favorites because of the three F’s: Food, Football, and Family (aww warm fuzzies). This year I spent 4 ½ days in lovely Des Moines, Iowa giving thanks with my entire immediate family (Yes, all 8 of us. 10 if you count the dogs.) Along with the three F’s, we managed to get to a few (try 10) stores in time to get the Black Friday Door-busters. (Props to my big sis for orchestrating the entire trip…I think our timing was impeccable and we owe it all to you! I am proud that the Pope family did our part to revive the economy in a matter of 7 hours...)
Besides Turkey Day, I’ve been busy trying to find budget-friendly, perfect gifts for my loved ones. That takes some serious time and effort! I’m a big fan of making lists (I know, shocker) and getting lists from my family so I know what they want. There might be a few surprises in there, but I usually try to stick to the list. I think it makes Christmas shopping so much easier! The only one I’m struggling with is my boss, but I have a few ideas, and it may or may not include straws from Bucky’s. We’ll see if she continues to be nice to me over the next few weeks:)

MARATHON TRAINING- Yes, I’m finally making it known to “everyone.” A few months ago I decided to start training for the Lincoln HALF Marathon. (Emphasis on HALF, just because I’m still under the impression that people who run in marathons, especially the full ones, are a little “off”—LOL) Yep, I decided that I needed a new challenge in my life, and this one presented itself. Long story short, my boss runs full marathons….I started asking her about it and what the training entails, etc. She thought of the idea and said she’d come up with a training schedule for me. And so my journey began. I’m only two and ½ months into training, but it’s taking a lot more time than I thought it would. However, it has its rewards. I can eat *almost* whatever I want (cha-ching!!) and the lbs. I gained from “Weekends at the Lake” this summer are gone. And last Friday, a new thing happened to me: I actually looked forward to running after work. Of course, after 30 minutes, I was sucking wind, cursing with whatever breath I had left, and counting down the seconds until I could drink my first alcoholic beverage of the evening. Baby steps, right?! So, now that I made it public, I pretty much HAVE to do it, so if any of you are thinking you want to run with me or watch me run on May 4th, 2009, I’ll be in Lincoln. Homemade signs with catchy phrases are welcome:)

SLINGIN’ THE BLING-BLING – the third thing that has been occupying my non-blogging time is a new part-time job. I started working for Greenberg’s Jewelry. My Bunco friend Julie has worked there on and off for 14 years, and I asked if they needed any Seasonal help. Turns out, they did! It’s my first time in Sales and I’ve only worked a few times, but so far so good! It never hurts to have a little bit of “extra” money coming in, especially around the Holidays. I’m going to see how the next few weeks go and decide after that if I want to continue on into 2009!

I feel like those things, along with trying to keep up with the house and see family and friends, have been keeping me EXTRA busy! Oh yeah, and trying to watch the few shows I like….and bathing...you know, the necessary things.

2008 is coming to an end….look for “The Year in Review” post sometime…uh….soon. It was a great year, but I’m looking forward to an even better one in 2009! (And we all know what a new year means, right? AWARD SHOW SEASON!!! I am PUMPED!)

Until Next Time…

Did you know this?

2008-11-22T12:45:00.004-06:00

I've been tagged to play this fun game!!!
The "5 THINGS GAME"
The rules are to write 5 things under each of the 5 headings, and then tag 5 other people.
10 years ago...
1. In my first semester of college. (holy crap)
2. Learning how to play "3-man" (dice game)
3. Packing on the Freshman 15-25
4. Making some of the best friends I've ever had (and still have today)!
5. Loving the freedom of college and going to classes!
5 Things on Today's "To-Do" List...
1. Workout (check!)
2. Dust and Vacuum (check!)
3. Shower (check!)
4. Go to Wal-mart (headed there right now)
5. Figure out what to do tonight (stay in or go out?)
6. Stare at Kirk Herbstreit on ESPN Game Day (CHECK!CHECK!CHECK!)
5 Snacks I Enjoy...
1. Apples
2. Vic's Popcorn
3. Chips and Salsa
4. Yogurt
5. Granola Bars
5 Things I Would Do if I were a Millionaire!
1. Pay off my Target credit card
2. Buy a house in a very warm place and sell flip flops during Nebraska's 'winter' months
3. Hire someone to clean my bathroom
4. Go back to school
5. Buy a new car
5 Places I Have Lived...
1. Lincoln, NE
2. Kearney, NE
3. LaVista, NE
4. Omaha, NE
5. My car (for one week during the summer in college--I stayed with friends)
5 Jobs I've had/Still have...
1. Detassling
2. Hostess at Chi-Chi's
3. Lead Teacher for Child Development Center
4. Human Resource Assistant
5. Tax Associate
Okay.. now I am tagging 5 friends...
1. Jess (already did it!)
2. Meghan
3. Bridget
4. Christina
5. Anne

Cock-a-doodle-dooooooooo!!!!

2008-11-14T14:33:00.003-06:00

So, my BFF Megs sent me this website and because it's a Friday, and work is snooze-ville right now, I decided to check it out. (Don't tell my boss...or my mom, she might think I'm not working, which I AM, but just not for these couple of minutes. Let's just say it was my lunch break.)

Anyway, the website is http://www.animalinyou.com/ You answer a few questions and it shows you which type of animal(s) your personality matches. Mine came out as both BEAR and ROOSTER....I think I'm more BEAR (sorry, my friend Sar-Bear, not trying to steal your title) with a twinge of ROOSTER...you guys decide, and let me know what you think of my "evaluation." Take your own test and let me know what YOU are....I swear, I won't attack your tent and steal all of your food while you camp. (Unless, of course, I'm hungry. And there's chocolate involved. Then, it's fair game.)

Bear
Genera and species: Euarctos Americanus
Collective Term: A maul of bears
Description: Conflicting forces shape the bear's nature. Since it is a classic omnivore, this burly beast exhibits two distinct sides to its personality. The carnivorous component makes the bear gruff and powerful, while its herbivorous side reveals a sensitive and intelligent individual. With their gruff outgoing personalities, their burly physiques and strong characters make bears easy to identify. Their natural confidence and swaggering gaits puts others on notice that a bear is present. They require a great deal of personal space (aka. PERSONAL BUBBLE--we talked about this, remember?) and when they enter a room, the tension level rises. As youngsters, bears excel in sports, although their propensity for laziness relegates it to being an observer and fan in later life. (Laziness is a little harsh...how about love of spectator-ism?) Familiar with the seduction of the couch, their ability to sleep soundly is legendary throughout the animal world. (More like 'do not wake up the bear unless you'd like to be growled at'?) Although it is aware and intelligent, the bear mostly succeeds from the sheer force of its personality. Rarely challenged to reach its full intellectual potential, it dominates conversations with its intense single-mindedness. (What-EVER.) However, it is unwilling to argue from a position that it doesn't truly believe in, which makes it a lousy lawyer (Thank goodness I didn't waste my time going to Law School.) Bears routinely enjoy success in all aspects of their industrious lives and their large and capable frames elicit respect and admiration in the workplace. Their natural leadership talents make them suitable for jobs in management, academia and personnel training. General Norman Schwarzkopf is the quintessential bear personality, typifying this breed's no-nonsense head-on approach to life. Two elements define the bear's style of debate. Never avoid an argument and never back down. (LOL--wanna make something of it?!) Bears will batter their opponents into submission just for the endorphin rush -- for there's nothing a bear enjoys more than pitting every drop of its intellectual juices against the mind of a worthy opponent. These large carnivores are not the most reciprocating of lovers and their mating habits can be described as intense, speedy and sweaty -- never as romantic or extravagant. (Okay, let's not even go there...)But still, they're always willing to get the fur flying, and their mates secretly appreciate the passion and ferocity of their sexual interest. (Again, not going there...)

Rooster
Genera and species: Gallus gallus
Collective Term: A brood of roosters
Description: Roosters are those talented, creative, but somewhat eccentric people who make life interesting for the rest of us. (yeah for us!) Their bird-like minds are always on the lookout for stimulation and roosters display the characteristically high-energy behavior of their species. They are artistic, creative, and sophisticated with a thorough knowledge of fine wines, cooking, writing, theater and painting. Subscribing to the early bird maxim, roosters rise a little earlier than their competition (This is obviously false...I said a little bit of Rooster, not the whole thing...) and could even be accused of having their fingers in too many pies. For the world is so fascinating to the rooster, that settling down into any one career would be impossibly constricting. Unfortunately, their earning potential can suffer in a competitive world that rewards specialization. (NOW you tell me...) But, roosters will succeed when they choose a career that presents a variety of challenges, such as medicine, publishing, journalism, or acting. There's a touch of glamour in everything the rooster does -- for settling for less would be exasperating to the rooster's essence. Why take the train if you can fly (Even IF you "white-knuckle it" the entire way)? This philosophy pervades its personal life, for the rooster proves to be a perfectionist in the bedroom too. (*Edited for inappropriate content*) Their ideal mates include peacocks who are attracted to their strong demeanor and flashy style. They are incorrigible flirts and although successful in attracting mates, their egos sometimes drive potential partners away (WOW, all my questions have been answered...) When sufficiently motivated by the right partner however, the rooster will generally find a way to make the relationship work. As a parent, it is fussy and attentive. Like the proverbial brooding hen, it is involved with every aspect of its children's lives; including their dress and company they keep; some even accuse the rooster of being overprotective. Although its children might resent their parent's interference, they learn to appreciate their concerns as they mature. The more reserved animal personalities such as bats, bison and moles find them to be fussy and bossy, and snake and canine personalities should be studiously avoided. A rooster will not be silent while there's breath in its body (LMAO) and although its powerful voice tends to be on the shrill side -- when it calls for action, everyone responds. Fuelled by resentment of their brazen style, these saucy birds hear a lot of unkind remarks from members of their own species and these barbs tear at their self-esteem. But when things look bleak, they stick to their guns, redouble their efforts, and live by the motto: if at first you don't suck seed, try drier grain.

Sorry, I had to add in my own comments. Do you expect anything less? Until next time...

Is it bad that...

2008-10-30T16:14:00.004-05:00

…I may or may not have candy for the trick-or-treaters this year because I decided to open the candy bags a couple weeks early? (Don’t worry, I haven’t eaten it all and I try to limit myself to one piece a day)

…I’m SO excited for this Election to be OVER WITH and I don’t care WHO wins? (For all of you political junkies, I WILL be voting…I want funny commercials back on my TV and people to stop talking about it!)

… “Working for the Weekend” has become my new Anthem? ('Everybody’s Working for the Weekend'…ah yeah, sing along with me now!)

…I’m back to eating Ramen noodles for dinner….and I don’t even MIND it? (I’m just glad this time I can use a real fork and plate---as opposed to plastic ones. Yeah, I’m classy like that.)

…I’m now addicted to “Dancing with the Stars?” (Damn you, Warren Sapp and Lance Bass…you’ve got me hooked!)

…I become ‘giddy’ when VH1’s “The Pickup Artist” comes on TV? (It makes me happy to watch nerds gaining valuable skills which will enable them the chance to hook up!)

…lately, I’ve been feeling like a hoarder that needs to seek therapy? (I have WAY too many newspapers/papers/whatever laying around my house. Help!)

…I haven’t had my hair done in over 10 weeks? (It’s not my fault she cancelled and then got married and went on her Honeymoon. Or that I don’t have any money. Sheesh.)

…my knees ache when the weather changes? (when did I get so old?!)

Comments, questions, suggestions welcome this time….PLEASE!

My Godson Charlie...

2008-10-23T16:00:00.000-05:00

Charlie Francis Kenny
Born October 4, 2008
8 lbs. 10 oz
23 inches
Proud Parents Matt and Ann

When I received these pictures, I almost started crying because I wanted to drive the 8 hours to Milwaukee and HOLD HIM (and give my old friend Annie a big hug and tell her I’m so happy for her)!! …I was even tempted to look online at flights for the weekend… but very few PTO hours and even fewer funds in the bank stopped me from doing anything drastic. (If I was still living with a roommate in rented space for $300/month, I’d SO be in Milwaukee RIGHT-NOW. Damn mortgage payments.)

I’m hoping to meet and spend some very quality time with Charlie over the Holidays.

Congrats to the Wolsleger and Kenny families! I love you!

Until next time...

Dear Mr. Herbstreit:

2008-10-19T19:45:00.001-05:00

It is a sad, sad day, my love. With a very heavy heart, I am writing to tell you that I have to move on. It isn’t you, it’s me. I am afraid after many years of being devoted to you, your commentating skills, the crisp clean suits you wear and that gorgeous blond hair, I find my eyes wandering elsewhere. Yes, we’ve had some good times…I truly believe that you have always been fair to me (and my beloved Huskers), but maybe this “break” is for the best.

You will forever be in my heart, and I won’t forget all you’ve done for me and all you’ve taught me about the art of college football. Yes, there might be a day that I come crawling back, begging you to take me back, but for now I need to take my chances with someone new. When I look at this person, I hear a choir of angels singing, the clouds part and the sun shines ever so bright. There are no questions that need to be answered, no worrying about bills to pay or laundry to be done. All the world is right. I know you will be hurt, but remember, we had a good run, and who knows what the future holds for us.
Sincerely,

Jesse Palmer’s NEW GIRLFRIEND
(Isn’t he a HOTTIE, chicas?! –HOLY SMOKES!)

Arts & Crafts Time!!

2008-10-15T15:39:00.005-05:00

Some of you may know that I became a "Stamper" a few years ago, thanks to my former co-worker Cindy. Since then, I've done my best to make cards for different events (birthdays, showers, etc.) and I thought I'd share a few of them with you today. I get alot of my ideas off of this website: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ --it's great...people WAY craftier than I am, posting their creations on a website so that other people (like me) can look at them and get ideas for projects. Brilliant!

Here are a few of mine:

I made this one for my boss for Boss's Day (tomorrow). I do appreciate who she is...as I really do like her, but I'm also hoping she understands this is more cheesy than I am normally, so she'll get a little laugh out of it. I also got her some jumbo straws (Thank you, Bucky's!) because she has a GIGANTOR water bottle and her normal straws don't go all the way to the bottom. Don't YOU want to be my boss?!

This is for my Mother's Birthday (coming in November). Sorry if I ruined it Mom...I think it will look better in person:)
This was an invitation I made for my BFF's baby shower in April. It fit her personality, and wasn't overly feminine, which I think she appreciated. The inside was the information printed out on white card stock, and then "You're Invited!" stamped above it.

And because I don't have my office/craft room/closet set up quite yet (maybe by this time next year?), THIS is how my house looks after I do one, maybe two cards.

Next up...Thanksgiving place cards and Christmas Cards! I'll post those when I get those finished!

Until next time...

Yawn

2008-10-09T22:16:00.002-05:00

Has anyone else felt EXTREMELY tired the past couple of weeks? I feel like it's hard to keep my eyes open at any point during the day...

The only way to describe how I feel is through photography...this is the best I could come up with...

Here's to hoping I get some sleep this weekend.

(For the record, I told you my hair isn't pretty when I let it air dry.)

Until next time...