X's & O's

So it's finals week

2007-12-03T11:38:00.000-06:00

and instead of studying, I'm playing on the computer. Bad Manders!!! lol

I'll get it done. Eventually... I'm just so ready for the break that I can't seem to force myself to study right now. I will though... maybe after lunch. Or after dinner...

Views from the highway

2007-11-13T08:01:00.000-06:00

So yesterday morning I'm leaving class and heading home.

Ahead of me is a dump truck.

There's something printed across the back of it.

What does it say?

Everybody Loves A Good Dump!!

Isn't that awesome? I loved it so much that I had to call and tell my husband. So dang funny.

holy cow

2007-11-07T09:27:00.000-06:00

Its been more than a month since I've posted one of these. My how time flies. So here's what's up.

Work. Busy as ever. Lots of sick people, lots of germs. Eech. I don't feel so well myself. I think I need a flu shot. Or some mucinex. Or orange juice. Or vacation. Whatever.

School. Almost over, but still not close enough. We have about 5 weeks left of the semester, and I'm ready to have a month to myself. Its time to start saving for the spring though, I have about another 1500 I need for tuition and books. No, I can't get financial aid. My dad makes too much money. Blah blah... I have to wait until next fall to get it. My classes are good though, I'm just ready for some interesting stuff. Not history... :(

Home. Married life is great. My husband's my best friend, and makes me laugh daily. I wish I got to see him more. Oh well, I know that by being apart now we'll be able to have a better life in the future. We just have to stick it out for a bit longer.

My little niece is so cute! I spent some time with her on Sunday and she just cried her little baby head off. I want a baby. Bad. Soon I think.

Christmas is coming. Time to start shopping. Right after I work some overtime so I can shop. I love Christmas. Everyone is always so happy.

Its cold outside this morning. I need to go to bed and get under the warm blankets. Maybe a fuzzy kitty will crawl in and help keep me warm. Who am I kidding? They all crawl in, usually at the exact same time that I do.

Alright, that's about it. Hopefully the next post wont be a month away.

This might not seem like much to you guys

2007-10-04T15:29:00.000-06:00

But I just scored an 85 on my biology test that I studied my ASS off for.

Considering the average grade was a 57, I'd say that I kicked some major bootay!

Woot Woot for me!!!

just so you know

2007-10-01T10:37:00.000-06:00

I'M ON VACATION!!!!!!!!!!

And I plan on enjoying every last friggin second of it!

It's 4 am

2007-09-22T03:19:00.000-06:00

and I'm an aunt!!

They took the little lady by c-section because she wanted to come out umbillical cord first! But now she's out, and healthy, and I'm sure very beautiful. I'm going to see her later today after class.

Oh so cool!

Happy monday to all!

2007-09-10T08:14:00.000-06:00

G'morning everybody!

Have a good weekend?

If you can't tell from my chipper mood, I did.

Plus, I just realized that I'm already in my 4th week of the semester, and before I know it, I'll be done!! Wee-who!

The hub-ster got a nice big promotion at work last week, so I'm really excited about that. He's struggled with not only low pay, but a lot of boredom almost as long as I've known him, so I know he's really happy about it too.

My brother's girlfriend/ ex-girlfriend/ girlfriend is set to have their baby any day now, so of course I'm excited about that too.

Me darling kitties are sick right now, so I'm bummed about that. One picked up a respiratory infection somewhere, and another picked it up from her. So twice a day I get to shove a medicine dropper down their throats. Then I get to bandage my wounds... lol :(

I hope they get better soon.

Michael Vick

2007-08-27T14:22:00.000-06:00

Sucks.

I just watched his "apology". Maybe he doesn't realize that he should be apologizing to things that were actually affected by this, the DOGS that he brutally killed. Not for "being irresponsible and letting his fans down".

Oh horse shit. If he was really sorry he would fork over a gang-load of his earnings to find homes for former abused animals, provide education for preventing abuse, and actually doing something to ensure that this will happen less and less in the future.

Claiming that he's found Jesus, so he knows everything will be ok is total crap. He's selfish and egotistical, and is worried about how his fans view 'Michael Vick'. Get over yourself, stop talking in 3rd person, and actually do something other than admit you were irresponsible.

Duh, you murdered dogs. That's a little worse than being irresponsible.

ZZZzzzzz.......

2007-08-24T13:53:00.000-06:00

Oh so sleepy!!!

Almost a full week of school down, and I'm still adjusting to my new schedule. It's a lot of juggling, but I know I can do it. I had a 48 hour work week, which for me is done in 4 days. I've spent 9 hours in a classroom, which is done after work each morning, and let me tell you... it's so hard to keep from nodding off when the old man discusses the civil war... B-O-R-I-N-G.

My algebra class is going well, I'm getting ready to start homework for that class. History requires a lot of reading, which I can do during down time at the hospital every night. My comp class... well, seems more like a debate class, which is awesome to me. The instructor is probably barely older than me, sits on the desk to lecture (or debate) and actually told us that if any parents need to, they can bring their kids to class. She had a baby her first year of college, so she knows how hard it can be. That will probably be my favorite class this semester, but I do still have biology tomorrow, so she could be out done.

So that's my week in a nutshell. 16 hour work/ school days, 5 or so hours of sleep, and the rest for eating, cleaning, and showering.

Now, where was I.

Oh yeah...

ZZZZzzzzzzzz

Back to School tomorrow!!

2007-08-19T07:47:00.000-06:00

The kiddo's and I all head back to the classroom tomorrow morning. They are entering kindergarten and second grade, and I'm still working on my nursing degree.

Long, long days ahead for me, but I'm excited. I'm getting into the "just get it done" mentality, so hopefully I haven't overloaded myself. I don't think so though.

Miss you guys...

XOXO

We have our pictures back!!

2007-08-08T16:19:00.000-06:00

Thanks Kid! They're great.

My new hero

2007-07-24T07:03:00.000-06:00

Goodell, on Vick:

"While it is for the criminal justice system to determine your guilt or innocence, it is my responsibility as commissioner of the National Football League to determine whether your conduct, even if not criminal, nonetheless violated league policies, including the Personal Conduct Policy," Goodell said in a letter to the quarterback.

If Vick even KNEW of what was happening to those innocent animals he is guilty of a crime. I'm glad there is a man willing to remove an outstanding player from the game because of his atrocious behavior.

I overheard a comment that the dogfighting is no big deal... "to each his own" is what was actually said. (in my presence, no less) I'm sure people would feel differently if this man was raping children. To each their own my ass. This man deserves a LOT of jail time. And possibly to be mauled by a few of his fighting dogs. I'm sure they'd love to get his bitch ass back for how they were treated.

One Night

2007-07-18T06:54:00.000-06:00

One night, after the couple had retired for the night, the woman became aware that her husband was touching her in a most unusual manner.

He started by running his hand across her shoulders and the small of her back. He ran his hand over her breasts, touching them very lightly.

Then, he proceeded to run his hand gently down her side, sliding his hand over her stomach, and then down the other side to a point below her waist.

He continued on, gently feeling her hips, first one side and then the other. His hand ran further down the outside of her thighs.His gentle probing then started up the inside of her left thigh, stopped and then returned to do the same to her right thigh.

By this time the woman was becoming aroused and she squirmed a little to better position herself. The man stopped abruptly and rolled over to his side of the bed.

"Why are you stopping darling?" she whispered.

He whispered back, "I found the remote!"

Some more!!

2007-07-03T14:59:00.000-06:00

Here's the gondola ride at the Venetian! So much fun, the guy sang to us.

Someone's been drinking!!!

Here I am...

Reception Pictures

2007-07-01T17:28:00.000-06:00

Just married... now time for cake!!!

2007-06-29T01:22:00.000-06:00

Here it is

2007-06-22T10:59:00.000-06:00

My hair is done.

My nails are shiny.

My dress is on.

My makeup is almost finished.

I've had a few energy drinks.

The heels are ready.

I stopped by the cemetary to show off to my Grandpa.

All that is left is promising to love my best friend for the rest of my life. Piece of cake.

Wedding Advice--

2007-06-15T12:14:00.001-06:00

This was emailed to Ace, and he was brave enough to send it to me

Mike was going to be married to Karen so his father sat him down for a little chat.He said, "Mike, let me tell you something. On my wedding night in our honeymoon suite, I took off my pants, handed them toyour mother, and said, "Here - try these on."She did and said, "These are too big. I can't wear them." I replied, "Exactly. I wear the pants in this family and I always will." Ever since that night, we have never had any problems."Hmmm," said Mike. He thought that might be a good thing to try.On his honeymoon, Mike took off his pants and said to Karen, "Here - try these on." She tried them on and said, "These are too large. They don't fit me."Mike said, "Exactly. I wear the pants in this family and I always will. I don't want you to ever forget that." Then Karen took off her pants and handed them to Mike. She said, "Here-you try on mine."He did and said, "I can't get into your pants."Karen said, "Exactly. And if you don't change your smart-ass attitude, you never will."

Holy Crap

2007-06-14T15:11:00.000-06:00

I

have

only

eight

days

until

I

GET MARRIED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

oh my gawd

What do you think?

2007-06-09T00:08:00.001-06:00

These are some of the wedding bands that I like. I know, they seem kind of dark. I've never been very traditional, so a gold band just doesn't seem... me. Anyone here have a preference over these four? Or willing to go find some pics of others? It's coming down to the wire... less than two weeks to go.

Viva Las Vegas!

2007-06-05T09:50:00.000-06:00

This is a pic of Ace and I a few years ago, about a year after we started dating. It's one of my favorites.

So I let Ace run with the trip planning since his parents were footing the bill. I'm taking over the party, because it's at my dad's place. Good? Sounded like the best way for it to go.

So... we're going here http://www.nynyhotelcasino.com/ He gets the casino/ vegas fun, plus he's from New York, so I think he'll have an even better time. The 33,000 sq ft ESPN bar doesn't hurt either... lol.

So the day is fast approaching.... holy shit.

Where do we go?

2007-06-02T13:31:00.000-06:00

Ace's parents have so graciously offered to send us on a honeymoon.

Yeah, for real!!!

He and I were planning on going to OKC or the lake, something simple like that to help actually not break the bank. But now, we have about 3 weeks to not only plan the rest of the reception, but now a kick ass honeymoon too.

I know first thing is to decide where to go, then hopefully everything else will fall into place.

Mr. Ace has his heart set on Vegas, and I'd rather hit the beach. I'm not a gambler, and he's not a sun worshipper.

Any ideas anyone?

Oh this is so cool... :)

Hi everybody!!

2007-05-30T07:35:00.000-06:00

Hi Dr. Nick! (watch the Simpsons?)

How is everybody? Doing good? Great, glad to hear it!

This wedding stuff is finally coming together, and with just over 3 weeks to spare. Good, yes?

We're getting married on the 22nd of June at a little chapel, and then on the 23rd we're having a BIG ol party at my dad's house. His family, my family, all of our friends.... whooo boy it's going to be grand.

Oh, and I got the invitations FINALLY in the mail yesterday, only a week and a half late. Oh well... sue me. Well, really, don't. I'm broke. :)

So we're doing a small little ceremony, his mom and dad and two boys (they'll be his best men), and my dad and grandma. I think it's going to be great.

I'm so excited. Speaking of excited, you should have heard my granny on the phone last night when I was telling her about the wedding/ party. She knows this great little place in her town that has a great selection of disposable tableware, so we just have to go and look. Seriously, I couldn't burst her bubble, but I just can't get excited about paper plates. But whatever she wants... lol.

I still don't know what we're doing for the honeymoon. Maybe OKC, maybe the lake, maybe Six Flags. Who knows? I sure don't. Whatever we do I know we'll enjoy though.

Ok, I'm off to visit my bloggy buddies. XOXOX

So here's the plan

2007-05-13T18:18:00.000-06:00

Here are all of the marriage details:

Ace and I are getting married on a Friday afternoon at the courthouse. Generic, yes. But honestly it was my choice to bypass the big ceremony and use the money for more practical things, like mortgage payments... lol

Saturday afternoon we're having a big party at my dad's house, and inviting friends and family for a big ol good time. I'm pretty excited about this part. It'll be the first time our extended families will be together, plus all of the friends, all celebrating him and I. Good times for sure.

Sunday we're dropping the doggies off at a boarding kennel, and he and I are heading to the lake for a few days. Here's where things are sketchy. We've thought about going to a cabin for 3 or 4 days, then coming back home, or going to a cabin for 1 or 2 days, and then to Texas to Six Flags for a day or two. Either plan sounds like a blast to me, but because of high gas prices I think we'd be better off doing plan #1, just going somewhere and staying put.

I don't know what to do about the whole gift registry thing. People have been asking already where we're registered, and since we've already lived together for years, we have all we need. Plus, we're getting married because we love each other, not because we want presents. I guess if people want to give us something, they can pick out what THEY want us to have, and if not, I'm totally fine with that too. We already have a house full of stuff.

So those are the details. Right now I'm just compiling addresses to I can get all of this stuff in the mail, and will have to pay the new HIGHER postage to get it all out, otherwise most people won't have details of the par-tay.

In case anyone is still reading...

2007-05-01T15:39:00.000-06:00

June 22nd is the big day....

So scary, and yet so very cool all at the same time. I'm going to be Mrs. Manders (new last name)

Holy shiat!!!

Oh, and my Boomer has a UTI. Poor baby is peeing blood. :(

Hi Everybody!!

2007-04-06T15:15:00.000-06:00

Long time no type, huh?

One of OK's lovely spring storms knocked my modem out, and we just got it fixed this past week. So I finally have my internet back!!

Let's see, Ace has had a birthday. Let's say it together, Happy Birthday Ace!!

My doggies got loose one day while I was at work. They busted out a few fence pickets and took off. Ace called me, and after doing 90 down the expressway to get home, and a few tense hours perusing the neighborhoods talking to people and asking questions, I found them roaming a strip mall parking lot. Oh did I cry when I found them... such a scary time. So now, they only go outside escorted. Little buttheads, just don't understand why they have to be behind a fence.

Let's see, what else. Oh yeah, I'm working on a flower bed outside, so hopefully these last two days of snow haven't killed everything off. I love having flowers everywhere, and I would hate to replace them.

I'll be by to visit everyone shortly, take care.

Spring has definitely sprung

2007-03-19T18:48:00.000-06:00

I know the official start to spring is tomorrow, but by the looks of the shelter, and the increasing population, I'd swear it's been here for weeks.

As of today, we have 20, yes 20, puppies under 3 weeks of age. They're SO CUTE!!! All but 8 are orphans, so I get to spend quite a bit of my day bottle feeding the little ones.

Also, as of 930 this morning, we have 5 new baby kittens. We've had their mommy for about a week, and she had her little ones over the span of a few hours. All of the babies are solid black, and oh so cute.

We have one other pregnant kitty right now, and she should be due any day.

So... people have your pets spayed or neutered. There's no way there is enough homes for all of these babies. Yes, they're cute. But everyone that adopts a baby ISN'T adopting a just-as-worthy adult.

Oh, and Ace's brother and sister-in-law had their baby this morning. Baby Brock was born just after 730 today.

Yup, definitely spring. Lots of babies. Cute, cute, cute babies.

I'm a bad blogger

2007-03-14T14:14:00.000-06:00

So nearly two weeks since my last post, and I still can't think of a thing to write.

Everything's going really well, we're almost all settled in to the new hacienda. I love it here. I always heard that owning just feels different than renting, and they were right. This really feels like home. And I feel like an adult. EEEK!!!!

Let's see, what's happened.

I've been taking care of patients lately. Some of the stuff I've seen... dang. I'm at the county hospital, so we get the people that are hurt or get sick in jail, we get the homeless, the poor, the people that most never see. They people really seem to appreciate a soft touch and a warm smile. I mean REALLY appreciate it. It makes me feel like I'm doing something to help.

So far I've worked on the general surgery floor and the cardiac floor. Next is the cancer floor. I have a feeling that is where I'll stay. Anyway, I'm loving the new job. It has really renewed me. I didn't realize the rut that I had fallen into. Well maybe I did, I just was too chicken to get out of it.

I went and visited the old job last week so I could pick up my Girl Scout cookies that I had ordered. It was nice to see everyone again, but I have definitely moved on. I don't want to go back.

In other news, some vandals destroyed Ace's car. I mean destroyed it. This is so much worse than the blue paint incident of a year or so ago. Caved in roof, busted back glass, flattened tire, pretty much ruined. So right now it's sitting in our garage, awaiting a likely trip to the junk yard. So he and I are sharing. It's not so tough, but if we do it for long my car will just wear out. Between the two of us we have a lot of driving to do. So we'll just have to wait and see about all of that stuff.

Take care everybody, talk to you soon.

It's been a big week

2007-02-27T21:49:00.000-06:00

Hi everybody!! Everything is well. Ace and I completely emptied out the old house this evening, and will start working on putting everything together over here, and straighting up as we go along. As with anyone that moves, our house is a big wreck right now. We can't find anything, what we can find we have to dig out of a random box, etc etc etc. But it's worth it, because this house is OURS. We won't be moving for a good long time.

In other news, I finished up day #2 at the new job today. I really like it there. The benefits are awesome (24 days off a year, scholarships, scheduled annual raises, nice insurance plans). It's still really early, and of course I'm still in the training part of the job, but I'm excited about it. I think it will be a good match for me.

I'll be around to check on everyone else soon, and will get pics posted of the new house asap.

Go Manders...

2007-02-22T10:08:00.000-06:00

It's my birfday!!!

I'm 24 today. Damn, I'm getting up there. Ace said Im almost old enough for him to dump me. Yeah, he'd lose his penis for that...lol

So we have our closing scheduled for 2 today. Yup, again. Hopefully this one will go a bit better than the last one. It's my birthday wish.

XOXO

The day has come!!

2007-02-20T10:01:00.000-06:00

We're finally closing!!

Heck yeah, today at 2 we get to close. I'm so freaking excited.

Plus, I bet Ace this morning that we'd close today, so I'm now $20 richer.

The cat's outta the bag

2007-02-16T14:42:00.000-06:00

First things first, we still haven't closed on the house. Don't ask me why. I'm sure there is a reason, I just feel that I've been fed so much bullshit over this deal that I don't really believe the reason that I'm being told.

That said, I have some other news. Scary news, but still really cool news. And no, I'm not preggo.

A couple of weeks ago I found an ad in the newspaper for a hospital that is training people to be nurses aides, and then providing them a job afterwards.

So I applied.

And yesterday I was offered a job.

And today I accepted.

And now I'm freaking out.

I have a mortgage... well... almost. (see above) Why in the hell am I deciding to now quit my job? Well, because it is a really great opportunity. It will give me the experience/ edge I need to help me be accepted to nursing school. I don't see how I couldn't accept it. Plus, their schedules are much more flexible, and will allow greater amounts of time for my regular school.

So that's it, starting Feb. 26th I'll have a new job.

Funny pictures

2007-02-13T15:12:00.000-06:00

This is my little brother as a baby, with his mom. He got the hat for his first Christmas. Such a cutie!!

Here's the step family (well, used to be.) I'm the one with my head turned crooked blocking out the sun. Dad's taking the picture.
Here we are at my dad and lil' bro's mom's wedding in March of '93. I'm the tall one in the jean skirt.

I'm on VACATION!!!

2007-02-12T15:07:00.000-06:00

This past Saturday started my 7 wonderful days of vacation. This month marks the 1 year anniversary of me working 7 days a week, so let's just say that I need it. I haven't had 7 days off in more than 3 years, so I'm trying to make the most of it.

Try is the key word. Last Friday we were supposed to close. Wait, wait, wait. No closing. Today we're supposed to close. It's 10 minutes past 3, and we still don't have a time. Wait, wait, wait. I'm not sure if we're still closing today or not, but I'm so beyond frustrated now. 3 days of my vacation have come, and nearly passed, and although I've rested, I have nothing accomplished at the new house. And, of course, since we can't get out of the old house, I can't clean. Can't scrub the shower, still have to use it. Can't vaccuum, we're still making messes. Can't poop scoop the yard, dogs are still... um... pooping.

Speaking of dogs, Mr, Sanchez (now about 6 months old) was neutered last week. He recovered very quickly, and was actually up and around before I even got to the vet to pick him up. And for those that care, he weighs a whopping 36 pounds now. Much heavier than the little 4 lb baby when he first came to me. Love that dude.

Time for me to go, I've got to bug my realtor some more.

A very long story short...

2007-02-07T15:17:00.000-06:00

We still haven't closed on the house. Yep, still. Oh, and we don't know when we will, so I keep pushing my vacation back. Blech.

Everything else is pretty much the same. It's all about the house right now.

Have a good day folks

XOXO

Dang

2007-01-31T10:08:00.000-06:00

It's snowing outside AGAIN!!! This bites.

We aren't closing on the house this Friday. It has been moved to some time next week (we think) I guess with no real date I can't get stressed out, right?

Ace's grandpa is sick. Poor guy is having heart trouble, and is now in the hospital. Everyone please do what you do, he needs it. Ace does too.

Happy Monday!!

2007-01-29T10:08:00.000-06:00

So here we are, yet another Monday morning. I'm so happy I could puke... lol

But seriously, if everything goes according to plan (and right now it's a long stretch) we will close on the house this Friday. Long story short, things just aren't going very smoothly. We'll see though.

I have an idea. I'm going to start taking my (really Ace's) camera to the shelter with me on the weekends and take pictures of our daily activities. Cleaning, playing, exercise, training, all that stuff. I'm going to print out most for a bulletin board at work so the people coming in can see the dogs (and workers) in a different light than what most usually get to see. Of course, I'll upload some to the old blog so everyone else can see too.

Oh, rumor has it that it's supposed to snow again this week. Happy friggin joy. The ice isn't all melted yet.

Have a great week everybody, XOXO

What does it take to be a man?

2007-01-24T10:07:00.000-06:00

According to dear, 4 year old little Tojo, the comedian of the house, being a man means you have to sit on the couch and watch tv.

I just died laughing!! Time to get off of the couch Ace... lmao!!!

The other morning my darling Boom Doggy jumped up and scratched my nose. I meant to take a picture, but I was too lazy. Hey, at least I'm honest.

9 days until I'm a homeowner. Scary stuff.

Oh, and I'm doing my taxes tonight, wish me luck for a big refund.

Dear So-and-So

2007-01-21T18:17:00.000-06:00

Dear ...

Inconsiderate Drivers:
Next time someone pulls out in front of me doing 10 when I'm doing 50 is going to end up with my car up their ass. Cut it out, the roads are icy. Don't be stupid.

Dear UPS man:
Thanks for being so polite to me Friday evening, even though you had about an hour's worth of packages to load. Yes, I did see you hammer your fist in the door when you first saw what was in store for your pick up, and I really appreciate you being polite to my face, even though I knew you were cussing under your breath.

Dear Woman at McDonalds.:
Again, another inconsiderate asshat. You go the wrong way through the parking lot, causing a headache for the other drivers, and then once inside you stop in front of the soda machine and wipe the crap off of your kid's face, even though a line has started to form behind you. Get out of the way lady... you're not the only person in the restaurant.

Dear Girl Kitty:
Sorry I teased you with the angry cat sounder on the computer. I know you got upset... and fluffy... and ran around the house looking for a fight to join. It was just so damn funny I couldn't stop from replaying it... LMAO!!

Dear House People:
Thank you for finally deciding to accept our MORE THAN GENEROUS offer on your house. Good luck fixing all of that stuff in just two weeks. If you can't get it done, it's your own dang fault for dragging your feet. You should have known I wasn't going to back down. (we close in two weeks people, TWO weeks!!)

Dear Doggies at the Shelter:
You guys are the best... even though it's icy and cold and wet, and you jump on me and sling mud and poop (yes, actually poop) on me, I still really love you all. You make me so happy. I hope you get homes soon.

Dear Weathermen:
Good job on predicting snow this weekend. It rained, and rained, and rained. But that's it. Way to go.

Signed,
manders

Time for a change

2007-01-17T10:07:00.000-06:00

Everybody like my new template? I might try to change the kitty picture to one of my dogs, but I think I'll leave it alone for now at least.

Yesterday evening marked the one year anniversary of Grandpa's death. It was a pretty sad evening for me. I tried to be easy going and not think of it too much, but it just wasn't possible. I pretty much just stayed in the den and searched around on the internet. I wasn't really up to being social with Ace and the kids. Unfortunately the snow storm isn't allowing me to get out to the cemetary, but as soon as all of this clears I can go.

Speaking of crappy weather, more is heading our way. The 20% chance of snow that was predicted is turning into a major wave of the white stuff. Just check out the radars. Luckily we haven't lost power at home. Yet.

Stay safe everybody, hug your loved ones. XOXO

goddang

2007-01-16T15:09:00.000-06:00

We sure got a lot of ice this past weekend... we're still working with about half of a normal work crew.

I did take full advantage of the ice storm though, and spent all day Saturday and Sunday on the couch under a blanket. I stayed in, and left all of the shelter work to people who live closer to it than I do.

Oh, in other news, this house buying stuff is for the birds. We have had the hardest time... it is a constant back and forth battle. Wouldn't you know that Ace and I would pick the most difficult people to buy a house from... it's a headache to say the least.

Well everyone have a good day, I know my blog sucks lately, so I'll try to do better.

XOXOXO

The deadline approaches

2007-01-10T15:01:00.000-06:00

With the close date of February 5th fast approaching, this house stuff is really taking up a lot of time. I'll just say that I knew going in it would be a lot of work, but this is crazy!!

The inspection was yesterday, and we will get the full report back for review some time tonight. It showed a few things, one could possibly be big, so I'll have to start the bargaining all over again I'm afraid. But we'll see, it could turn out to be nothing.

The insurance is picked out, I shopped around and got a really nice rate for both the house and car. Plus, if I add on life insurance I will actually save money overall. The policy is $13 a month, and will save me $22 a month. Not bad right? So I'm doing that.

That's about all to report as of lately, so we'll see how the inspection report goes tonight.

Adventures at the dinner table

2007-01-08T12:32:00.000-06:00

One day last week, Ace, the kids, and I were sitting at the table having dinner. We were just chatting, and the new house came up in the conversation.

I started telling the kids that the extra bedroom at the new house will be used as an office, and will house the computer and be used for any homework that has to be done. Because of that, they would no longer have a toy room. No toy room means extra stuff in their bedroom, and so they'll have to make sure and keep it clean.

Taco says "Oh, so that means we only have one chore a day, to clean our room"

Then breaks in Tojo.

"AND CLEAN OUR ASS!!!"

There's just something about a 4 year old yelling out ASS at the dinner table that will break me into tears. And the older brother too... lmao!!

Poor Ace is trying to lecture Tojo on bad words, and Taco and I are trying to not fall out of our chairs with laughter. It was awesome.

Happy New Year, time to be a grown up

2007-01-02T10:02:00.000-06:00

The year 2007 is bringing some big changes my way, most important are buying my house and getting married. I concluded that this year I am becoming an adult.

When I put it that way, it sounds really sucky, but I am excited. I know that I have worked really hard to be able to do the things that I am doing, so now I can just sit back and reap the rewards.

I don't really have any resolutions for the new year, but I'll try.

1. Keep a cleaner house.

2. Eat at home more.

3. Be more romantic with Ace.

4. Have more fun.

And really that's about it. Should be easy, right? We'll see I guess.

Happy New Year everybody.

Ditto!!

2006-12-27T23:12:00.000-06:00

Just like Miss Anne recently posted, I am now a ho-moaner!!

I found out about 15 minutes ago (which was 1045 PM) that our offer was accepted. So very cool. Don't know what I'm more freaked out about, this, or getting married. :) Both huge commitments. I've done my research though (yes, on both) and I think I've made wise choices.

Ok, so FREAKING excited right now. Here are some pics.

Hi everybody!!

2006-12-27T12:52:00.000-06:00

Did everyone have a nice Christmas? Spend a lot of time with family, eat lots of food, get lots of presents?

Me too.

:)

Hopefully I can have more to report later. I'm still house hunting, but I hope to have something nailed down here pretty quick.

Boomer's stitches come out tomorrow, so I will get a picture tonight to share. Kinda cool looking really.

Um, yep that's it. Have a good week everybody!!

My answers

2006-12-21T20:26:00.000-06:00

1. When you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was the first thing you thought? Time to wake up lady, get your ass in the shower.

2. How much cash do you have on you? $0 nada. Not a cash girl.

3. What's a word that rhymes with DOOR? floor

4. Favorite planet? Um... Mars? Never thought about it before.

5. Who is the 4th person on your missed call list on your cell phone? Dear old Dad.

6. What is your favorite ring tone on your phone? The little tune that came with it.

7. What shirt are you wearing? Red and white polo.

8. Do you label yourself? Like Abercrombie and Fitch? No, I don't.

9. Name the brand of the shoes you're currently wearing: In my socks.

10. Bright or Dark Room? Dark, save electricity.

11. Why is there always a missing question? Was there a missing question?

12. What does your watch look like? No watch. Gets in the way.

13. What were you doing at midnight last night? Sleeping. But not snoring... I don't do that Ace.

14. What did your last text message you received on your cell phone say? I have to go to the store, where do I put Boomer?

15. Where is your nearest 7-11? I haven't a clue.

16. What's a word that you say a lot? I love you. (ok, it's a phrase)

17. Who told you he/she loved you last? Mr. Ace, about 20 seconds ago. Being engaged is great.

18. Last furry thing you touched? Boom Doggy, he made his nose bleed again and I had to make sure he didn't bust a stitch.

19. How many drugs have you done in the last three days? None. But Saturday and Sunday I was popping them like crazy for my stiff neck.

20. How many rolls of film do you need developed? None. I have a digital one.

21. Favorite age you have been so far? I think next year, 24, will be my best year ever.

22. Your worst enemy? I don't keep enemies. They make life harder for me, not them.

23. What is your current desktop picture? Ace and the kids in KC with the Yankees boys. So cool.

24. What was the last thing you said to someone? I love you too hon

25. If you had to choose between a million bucks or to be able to fly, what would it be? Money, duh.

26. Do you like someone? Doesn't everyone?

27. The last song you listened to?She's Everything by Brad Paisley. My new favorite. I just love that song.

28. What time of day were you born? 4 am exactly.

29. What's your favorite number? 2

Where did you live in 1987? Wherever my mom told me to.

31. Are you jealous of anyone? nah, not my style.

32. Is anyone jealous of you? Probably not.

33. Where were you when 9/11 happened? Moving. I found out when I went to get breakfast at McDonalds and heard people talking about it. I just turned, walked out, and went back to moving. I didn't plug the tv or radio in for 2 weeks. I still can't watch anything about it.

34. What do you do when vending machines steal your money? Get a guy to rock the machine around until my food eventually falls.

35. Do you consider yourself kind? I do. Not kind enough though.

36. If you had to get a tattoo, where would it be? The commercial symbol of my last name somewhere, like my shoulder. Just to remind me of my roots after I get married.

37. If you could be fluent in any other language, what would it be?I tried French in high school, so I guess that.

38. Would you move for the person you loved? Not if I had to leave my family. Unless they were rich and I could come home WHENEVER I wanted.

39. Are you touchy-feely? before or after drinking? lol

40. What's your life motto? No real motto, just work hard, and make things how I want.

41. Name three things you have on you at all times: Out of the house? undies, cell phone, car keys.

42. What's your favorite town/city? I don't get out much.

43. What was the last thing you paid for with cash? Heartworm medicine. I swear, if not for the pets and their expenses I could take a really nice vacation. Oh well, I love em.

44. When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper and mailed it? Dear Mr. Banker, I'm sorry I'm late again... lol just kidding.

45. Can you change the oil on a car? Never tried. It's pretty cheap at Wal Mart.

46. Your first love: what is the last thing you heard about him/her? Oh geez, I don't know. Moved in with a girl I think.

47. How far back do you know your ancestry? The Great-great-grandparents on my mom's side sold slaves.

48. The last time you dressed fancy, what did you wear and why did you dress fancy? REALLY fancy? When I was maid of honor in a wedding.

49. Does anything hurt on your body right now? My neck's still a little stiff, but other than that, I'm dandy.

50. Have you ever been burned by love? Who hasn't?

51. Do you have a crush on any bloggers? Negative.

52. Where would you like to live? In a nice house overlooking the lake.

Boom's home

2006-12-18T20:11:00.000-06:00

I picked up my boom doggie after work today. He's ok.

When I first got Boomer he was about 10 months old. He was a pet of a guy that I worked with, and the guy didn't have time for him any more. I wanted a dog, so I sweet talked my Ace into letting me have him.

He wasn't neutered, and thus would dig out from under the fence and try to escape. During the digging process he cut his nose. As the nose started to scar he would re-injure it. The spot would rescar. The scar got bigger. After I got boomer, the vet started to really watch the nose scar. She was thinking that it was a 'doggy wart'. During the cutting/ scarring/ recutting a virus got in there, and now he has a virus.

She and I had discussed freezing it off, or just letting it be and see what it did. I'm not so prissy that I have to have a perfect dog, so I let it be for a bit, not wanting to sedate him for something that isn't necessary.

Fast forward to last Thursday. Now that we have Sanchez, the two play pretty rough which causes the bump to open and bleed slightly every now and then. Boomer doesn't seem bothered with it, so no big deal, right?

Well, after discussing it with the vet, she thinks it is possible if it is indeed a virus that Sanchez could scratch it open, and then get infected himself. So I'd have two warty dogs. And possibly two surgeries down the road. So I might as well go ahead and have it removed.

That's what we did today. I took the poor baby in this morning, and the vet cut his nose wart off. He now has 5 stitches and a head cone. (I haven't put it on him yet, the shame would be too much for his sad little soul right now I think.)

The wart thingy is off to the pathologist lab tomorrow, and we should have the results (and a future treatment plan if it returns) in about 10 days.

I'll try to get stitches pictures up soon. Poor baby, looks so sad.

The doggies

2006-12-15T10:08:00.000-06:00

Yesterday afternoon I took Mr. BoomDog and Sanchito to the vet. Sanchez needed booster shots, and boom doggie has a little growth on his nose that keeps getting bigger.

Anyhow, Sanchez is now up to 14 pounds. Dude's solid. He's going to be a really big adult. I still can't believe that someone would dump such cute puppies, but I have a theory on that. (later)

The doctor decided that Boomer needs his nose thing cut off, so Monday morning he has to go in for surgery. :(

School's out for Winter!

2006-12-12T10:07:00.000-06:00

I finished up my finals last night, even though I have a bitchin cold and a 101 degree fever. I'm such a trooper.

They all went really well, and I am so ready for the next month that I have off. Being able to go home after work instead of out to school will be a nice break for me. I know that it will be over all too soon though.

I've enrolled for my classes next semester, I'm just doing 2 this time. Bio for majors and Comp II. I'll do two more in the summer, and so on. Three at a time is just too much.

During my month long break I'm on a mission of buying a house. Ace and I can't move until March, but this break will really be the only time I can dedicate to looking. So that will definitely keep the two of us occupied. I'll keep everybody updated on that for sure as well.

That's about all, I should be a better blogger now that school's out.

Brrr it's cold, and funny Christmas

2006-12-07T10:07:00.000-06:00

I've been doing my Christmas shopping these last two weeks, and the wrapped presents sure look nice under the tree. Being able to buy gifts for my loved ones really makes me proud of myself. There have been many years that I haven't been able to afford presents, or even a tree. This year, however, I have both. I've had lots of fun shopping, and last night I bought a few things for myself from Victoria's Secret.

This is where it gets funny.

I found a nice salsa sampler giftset for my dad from Le Gourmet Chef, and an OSU cowboys shirt, and I have put them inside the Vicky's bag, complete with pink tissue paper. I can't wait to give it to him, more for the bag than the stuff inside. lol...

I have Ace just about complete, but I still want to get him a thing or two more. I'm not posting what I bought him here because he'll read it. Even though I'm almost positive he sneaked a peak before I wrapped it.

Ace's kiddos are just about finished up too, they have Jack Sparrow foam swords, new fleece jackets, and Tojo has a new tool kit and Taco has a huge Transformer toy.

Oh, and for those of you that aren't aware, it's colder than shit outside. I had to run some things out to the mailbox at work and froze my ass off. Dang it sucks.

Tonight I've got to get my study on though, so no more shopping. It's too cold to be out anyway.

So what's the funniest Christmas gift you've ever gotten? Or the most memorable? Or even just your favorite?

Mine was my blue Pound Puppies bicycle when I was 6. I loved that thing. Thanks Dad!

Finals week.

2006-12-05T07:41:00.000-06:00

Enough said.

*sigh*

Here are the boys

2006-11-29T12:47:00.000-06:00

So, instead of relaxing and enjoying my last day of vacation for the year I take pictures of my dogs. Cute aren't they?

Just so you know

2006-11-26T21:26:00.000-06:00

You guys are the absolute best!! The comments have been wonderful.

I told my dad earlier today that Ace and I are getting married. My brother took it upon himself to ask my dad "did Manders tell you yet?" ... so of course Dad called and said "tell me what?" So of course I had to tell him.

Dad's response? Better than I imagined. He just asked if I was willing to trade my youth and independence for the wife/ mommy role. I told him to not worry, nothing in my life would be changing for the worse. By the time the wedding rolls around we will of lived together for two years and be together for four, so the 'indepencence' was gone a long time ago. That, and his kids already had a great mommy, and my role as mommy won't begin until I'm well into or completed with school. He seemed a bit more assured after that, but I guess only time will tell.

First on the agenda is for me to find a place that we both love and can afford. Sounds easy, right? After I find the place I'll pick the date so corrolate with their vacancies. Ace originally picked June 11th, a Monday so we could elope. So I'm hoping to set something for that Sunday the 10th to keep things as close to our original plans as possible.

And Munchkin, you've got the decorator job. Let me decide on a few colors, location, time, etc. then pay off the Christmas gifts on my credit card, and you and I will go shop our hearts out for wedding CRAP... lol ( I couldn't resist) I don't see my mom being around much for this, so if you will, I'd love for you to stand in for her. XOXO right back.

So the cat's outta the bag

2006-11-23T11:14:00.000-06:00

Last night Ace told his parents our secret. Told you we suck at this.

They talked us into having an actual wedding, not just eloping. So... I guess that's what we'll do. I must admit that it will be nice to have my dad walk me down the aisle.

Of course I've never planned a wedding before, so I have no idea what I'm doing. So wish me luck on this.

Next on the agenda is telling my family. Probably tomorrow at Thanksgiving #2 I'll let it out.

Here's the secret

2006-11-20T06:02:00.000-06:00

Because I really suck at this, and know I'll never be able to hold it in....

Ace and I are getting married June 11th.

Now take a breath... lol

We aren't having a big ceremony, we'll probably just get married at the court house, then take a few days worth of vacation and go on a trip somewhere, like San Antonio, Padre, Myrtle Beach, something like that. So if anybody has any ideas send them our way.

See? Good secret, right?

Tails and Eyes

2006-11-16T22:20:00.000-06:00

The following was written by our shelter vet, and was posted in this quarter's newsletter. Try to read it without tearing up. I can't do it.

I always remember the tails and the eyes of the abused and neglected animals that I serve. I remember their tails because I am amazed and heartened that they still choose to wag them when the arrive at the SPCA for clinic treatment, even though they have been treated thoughtlesly by the people who were supposed to be caring for them. Like the tail of Millie, a dog who came to us sore all over from being shoved from a moving car. She still wagged her tail even though she had injuries to two of her legs. Or the tail of little Hope, who was sick with an infected jaw fracture and was thin as a rail, but she found the energy to greet us with her wagging tail.
I remember Earl's eyes. Earl is a dog who was starved nearly to death within view of his drug addicted owner's kitchen window. Our emplyees went out to remove him and his yardmate Flash, who was in similiar shape, and save them from a slow but sure death. They got here just in time, as both dogs were very weak from dehyration and barely able to walk from not having eaten in a long time. Earl presented for treatment lying down; he was so weak, but his brown eyes looked up and right into mine. I loved him immediately. He seemed to be telling me that he was happy to be with us, and expected nothing in return. I imagine that Earl looked at his unfortunate caregiver that way too, and he and many others have taught me that unconditional love is the greatest git that we can hope for. We don't own our pets, they stay with us because they want to. The staff wishes we could be as forgiving as so many of the SPCA animals are. We go through so many emotions when we take in a new abused or neglected animal, but the animals seem to forgive and move on in no time. I don't think they forget, I think they just forgive.

You're teary, aren't you? It's ok, I am too.

Notes from the story: Millie is doing fine. A man who is part of a band had adopted an animal from the shelter. When he heard about Millie his group put on a benefit concert and helped us raise the money necessary for Millie's surgeries. She's doing great these days.

Hope came to us after a man saw his neighbor kick a stray dog in the face. When the good samaritin could finally corral the puppy he brought her to us. The jaw was broken and infected, but all is healed now and she's a beautiful, loving little girl.

Earl and Flash are both doing great. Earl now lives with an employee of the shelter, and belongs to the woman's mentally handicapped son. The son voluntarily helps out with chores around the shelter and his calm demeanor matched perfectly with Earl, who is still extremely shy. Flash still lives at the shelter, and is awaiting his forever home.

With the holidays coming up many folks use the season of giving to pass on a little extra to charities. Please remember the shelters. The animals, employees, and volunteers rely on the donations to keep afloat.

A short wishlist:

old blankets
old stuffed animals
squeaky toys
canned food (not dry, too many varieties make dogs sick, so they're on a strict dry diet)
water hoses
bleach
dish soap
treats
trash bags
paper towels
aluminum cake pans (litter boxes)
kitten milk replacement
stamps
office supplies (pens, paper, scotch tape)
kitty litter
leashes

Anything you can do helps, please think of them.

A few pics, just for giggles

2006-11-14T22:55:00.000-06:00

I'd guess I'm about 5 in that picture, my two older brothers are beside me. Cousins are over a bit further. I'm calling this the "wind-blown" look. Don't I look destined to be on Cosmo?? lol

Yup, Dad had a mullet. Ace didn't believe me until I showed him the photographic evidence. I'm glad I dug this pic up, just in time for Christmas. I'm framing it and giving it to his wife. (thanks for the idea, guys... you're the greatest.)

And last, but certainly not least, here I am with my dear ol Granny. Aren't we darling?! I look like I'm pooping, but still.

Here goes nothing

2006-11-13T21:27:00.000-06:00

I know, I know. It's time for a new post.

What's new. I'm really getting into the Christmas spirit this year. I've already bought a few things to decorate the house, and Ace and I are planning on putting up lights either this weekend or the next. I realize that tradition states you put them up the day after Thanksgiving, but I'm stuck working. I'll probably work Turkey Day as well, so traditions don't really apply with me. Big deal.

Sanchez is really growing. I want to get him into the vet to have him weighed so I can see just how big the dude's getting. I'm guessing he's put on about 5 pounds in the last 4 weeks. Cute little guy, he's Boomer's best friend. (next to me, of course. Such a momma's boy...lol)

School is going well, I'm still ready to have this semester closed out though. I'm ready for the fun stuff, this basics crap is for the birds.

Oh, and I have a secret. I'm really sucky at keeping secrets, so I should NEVER be told one. Just FYI. I'm sure before too long I'll be spilling my guts, so stay tuned.

Oops!!

2006-11-08T10:13:00.000-06:00

Yesterday when I left for work I thought I'd let Sanchez run around freely in the living room instead of being confined to his crate like normal. He's growing quickly, and is becoming too big for his crate.

Anywho. When I left I picked everything up off of the floor, including pillows, the newspaper, and Ace's PS2.

Ace got home before me, and sent me a text message that it wasn't the best idea. Apparently little Sanchez chewed through both of the phone chargers and the speaker wire for the surround sound.

DAMMIT! I forgot something.

So we went last night to Best Buy and got Ace a phone like mine so we can now share a charger. It was cheaper to do that than buy 2 new chargers, plus he's been wanting a new phone anyway.

Dang puppy, I should have known. Anyhow, I need to get a picture up of Boomer and Sanchez playing, it's adorable.

I'm ashamed of me

2006-11-06T15:22:00.000-06:00

A woman at work was out all last week.

She was out because her husband hit her so hard in the face her cheek was swollen even with her nose, and she was embarrased to come in while she was so bruised.

She came back today with a brand new Toyota pickup. It's black, really nice.

A guy commented that her truck matched her eye.

I laughed. Now I feel horrible.

Happy Halloween!!!

2006-10-31T21:43:00.000-06:00

Yes, I really did put a Batman costume on my labrador. Isn't he a cutie!!!

Trick or Treating was a lot of fun, and thankfully with a coat on it wasn't unbearably cold. Now that the kids are in bed I can raid the candy. Heck yeah! I hope all the kiddies out there had a wonderful halloween, and all the parents are enjoying the kids' loot just like me.

In "notes from dumbasses", today I had McD's for lunch. I ordered a combo with a water. The woman at the counter informed me that because I asked for the combo, I couldn't have a water. I paid for a soda, so I'd have to drink a soda. I reminded her that they offered bottled water as an alternative to soda. "Oh, bottled water" she said, "you can have that". Gee, thanks. Tard.

Alright folks, I'm out. The smartees are calling my name.

A good day off

2006-10-27T09:15:00.000-06:00

I took a vacation day yesterday because I needed to head downtown and take a test for my online history class.

I must say the day was a success. I slept until just after 9, studied for a while, hung out online for a while, then played with the doggies. I need to get a picture of Boomer playing with Sanchez. It's so cute, Sanchez is about half the size of Boomer's head.

Anyhow, I had some lunch (ham and cheese sandwich), studied some more, then took a shower. I cruised downtown and met with the nursing program advisor and had my classes mapped out for the next 3 1/2 years. (dang... that's a long time. It will be a bachelor's degree though) Then I took my test and went to Victoria's Secret and got some good stuff. Hopefully Ace will get well soon so he can see it... ;)

After Vicky's I picked up a pie and headed to Granny's for some chili (and pie). We talked and went through some old pictures. I found the most hilarious thing... my dad with a mullet!! I remembered him having it, but Ace of course hasn't ever seen it and doubted that it ever existed, so I finally had proof. Oh it's good stuff, I'll have to get it up on the old bloggy later. Oh, and my dear old Granny bought me a new coat. It's so cute, I love it. And a perfect fit. She's so awesome.

After all of this I headed home, and made it back at about 930. I played with the doggies a bit more, and crashed.

A great day off indeed.

Oh, and for all you Tulsans out there, head out to the Boo Ha Ha parade tomorrow. I'll be there with the shelter doggies marching down the street. It's going to be a good time.

My dog's a freak

2006-10-24T09:15:00.000-06:00

Last night after class and a trip to the grocery store I pull in the driveway. Ace is on the front porch with Boomer, who's just out roaming the front yard.

I pull up, shut the car off, open my door, and in jumps the dog, right in my lap. He wants to go for a ride.

The ol Boom jumps in the backseat, just grinning from ear to ear. Ace grabs the groceries, and I drive a few laps around the block to pacify the dog.

I'm such a sucker.

Oh, in other news.

School's going well. My grades are pretty good, and I'm getting ready to enroll in next semester's classes. I'll probably only do two this next semester because I still don't qualify for financial aid and three classes plus three books is just too expensive for me right now.

Oktoberfest was great, I love doing the chicken dance in the middle of the beer tent with 200 drunk strangers. Oh, and Strawberry Newberg's are awesome. If you haven't had one, DO IT!!

I'm off work this Thursday so I can take a test for my online class and get my oil changed. I'm also taking my dear Granny out for lunch. I was hoping to be able to sleep in, but it doesn't look possible. Perhaps I can take an afternoon nap before Ace gets off work.

That's all folks, have a good day.

XOXOX

Awesome news!!!

2006-10-19T21:26:00.000-06:00

I stopped by the shelter on my way home today (ok, so it's 30 minutes out of my way...big deal) and we were able to keep all of Sanchez's siblings. They didn't go to the pound!!! Awesome right? Now they can stay with us, get great vet care, and go to a really nice home soon.

I'm so excited...

And no, I'm not taking my Sanchez back.

For my little bro

2006-10-18T21:22:00.000-06:00

Happy 13th kid, I can't believe you're a teenager already. Time sure flies.

Introducing: Sanchez!!!

2006-10-15T19:03:00.000-06:00

When I arrived at work this morning I had a lovely little surprise sitting in the very back outdoor kennel. 7 beautiful puppies. 3 white, 2 black, 2 tan. All very cute, all very scared.

Due to overcrowding issues because of a recently broken up puppy mill, we probably won't be able to take the little guys in. Instead all 7 were Pound Bound. I knew this, and started to cry. I was sobby all day, knowing these little 4 week old babies didn't ever have a chance.

Then I called Ace, and I was reminded why I love him so much. He knows how important animals are to me, so he said I could have one!!! Heck yeah baby.

So here he is, in all of his puppy glory.

Weighing in at a whopping 4.2 pounds, and as sweet as can be, let me introduce Sanchez. (note Girl Kitty in the background making sure this new little thing stays in line)

Oh, and to all of you, please SERIOUSLY consider adopting a shelter pet. So many of these guys never find homes. Also, no matter what, have yours spayed or neutered. As much as I love little Sanchez, he should have never existed.

And the arm goes POP

2006-10-13T19:51:00.000-06:00

This afternoon I'm lugging around my 100th or so box for the day, and I reach back awkwardly to grab another one off of the floor. Then my shoulder popped, and REALLY started to hurt. Lucky for me, after that my arm went numb. Yes, it still hurts right now. Ace thinks that I pinched a nerve, which I'd believe. He says that it will get better in a few days, which is exactly right after I get finished being pulled all over the world by about 50 attention hungry dogs by that exact same arm while I have them on a leash. Oh well. I'll be just fine. Just to be on the safe side though, I made sure to tell my boss before I left for the day that I hurt myself, and he said for me to make sure and tell him Monday morning if it's not better.

With cooler weather setting in around the Manders house, I decided to make a huge batch of chili. It's fantastic and delicious. Ace is in getting seconds right now, and I'm going to have to do the same in a few minutes.

In other news, I've conformed. I made the disappointing step to a MySpace account. I know.. I know, I'm ashamed of me too. It has done exactly what I had hoped it would though, and has brought me back in touch with quite a few of my good friends from high school. Tomorrow night one of my very best girlfriends and I are going out boozing it up. I'm pretty excited about that of course.

I'm still having attendance issues with my crew at the shelter on the weekends. I have a pretty good idea on how to curtail it, which includes making them stay to work a full shift, even if they are late. (I'll elaborate) If they're an hour late coming in, they must stay an hour after to do whatever I want, including filling up holes that the dogs have dug, picking up trash and debris on the grounds, and bathing the dogs. I'm running it past the director tomorrow, but I don't think she'll have a problem with it.

That's about it guys, another lovely rambling post of Manders. Have an awesome weekend. I'll try to get some boozing pictures to share with everyone later.

:)

Rainy, blah kind of day

2006-10-10T22:03:00.000-06:00

Today started off cloudy and grey, and ended cloudy, rainy, and grey.

Fine for me though, sometimes days like this are nice. The only thing that would of made it better is if Ace and I could have stayed home all day in our PJ's, layed on the couch, and watched movies. Oh well, we both had to work.

I've been using the tanning package that Ace bought me, and I've gotten pretty dark in just a couple of sessions. ( I know... skin cancer. I'm doing it anyway) The tanning also came with a month of fitness, but I haven't started that yet. Probably tomorrow. Well, maybe tomorrow. :)

Dang cat... always shits when I'm on the computer. Gahhh!!!

I wonder. Wonder wonder who? Just who wrote the book of love? (Sorry, I ran out of things to talk about.)

Have a good rest of Tuesday and all day Wednesday folks. I'll let you know if I can force myself to exercise, or if I decide to have ice cream instead.

No fair, Oktoberfest instead.

2006-10-08T18:23:00.000-06:00

For the first time in my entire life, I didn't attend the state fair. Not because I couldn't find the time, or couldn't necessarily afford it, but plainly because I didn't want to. Normally I'm really excited for when the fair comes, I love the food, the people watching, and the livestock shows. This year though, I just couldn't get into it. I can't justify spending $8 for admission, $5 for a corndog, and $7 for a beer.

Instead I'm getting geared up for Oktoberfest. Lately it just seems to be more 'my cup of tea'. $3 at the gate, parking relatively close, a huge beer garden where you stand on the tables and do the chicken dance with 200 complete strangers, and get an awesome meal of sausage, peppers, and onions for that same $5 that would of only bought you a corndog elsewhere. Oh, and an entire PITCHER of beer is usually about $9. It's a much better deal.

Sports news... OU and the Yank's both lost on Saturday, Ace was a sad, sad guy. Sorry hon.

Dog news... He's a freak, plain and simple. I love my freak.

School news... I'm ready for this semester to be over so I can take some different classes. Not that I don't like mine, I'm just tired of them and ready for something else. I'm really looking forward to the fun classes that I can take, where I learn things I'm actually interested in, not just the boring crap that everyone has to endure.

Well... it's almost Desperate Housewives time. Oh, and this moving Gray's Anatomy crap to Thursday has really thrown me. I've missed the last 2. Will someone remind me please?

XOXO

Manders, by numbers

2006-10-04T21:32:00.000-06:00

4 = pets I have, 3 cats and a dog.

3 = sick days I've taken in the 3+ years at my job, one being this past Monday.

70 = hours a week that I spend either at work or in class.

2 = alcoholic drinks I've had since I've been home.

10 = pounds I hope to lose before next summer.

1 = year (almost) since I haven't had a soda

41 = mosquito bites I got today in the 15 minutes I was playing Frisbee with my doggy. I was itchy!!

14 = days until Oktoberfest starts! Heck yeah baby!

2 = good shows on tv tonight. Lost, and The Nine. Both were really good.

30 = minutes after I should have gone to bed

Infinity = amount I love my ace. He's the greatest. I wish he'd come home... :( Stupid coworker going away party...

Have a good one everybody!!

A few family pics

2006-10-01T16:59:00.000-06:00

I have put up a few pictures of me as a wee lass. My grandma gave me these during my visit this past week. Enjoy them, I sure have.

The above picture is 3 generations. My grandpa, my dad, and my brother. Looking at this made me realize that all three of them stand exactly alike.
Here I am, with my mom and dad before they divorced. My mom is so pretty.

This picture is me with my older brother. My mom always told me that when I was small my brother told everyone I was "his baby" and he'd sneak out of his room at night to sleep beside my crib.

The Granny visit

2006-09-29T16:57:00.000-06:00

I tried calling her a few times last night, and she never answered. Being the stubborn girl that I was raised to be, I headed to Wal Mart and bought her the largest yellow mum plant I could find, as well as a card, and went over anyway.

I stood at the door, knocking, for at least 5 minutes. I could see she had the tv on through the light flashes out of the window, so I kept knocking. She finally answered.

I gave her the flowers, and she thanked me. Then she scolded me for spending my money on her instead of on myself... I hope she knows I'd spend every dime I had on her if she ever needed it.

We sat and talked for over 2 hours, about anything, everything, and nothing all rolled into one. Marshall the Cat is still hanging around her, but Marshall turned out to be a girl because she had kittens last week. I told Granny I'd bring her a bag of catfood for her dear Marshall. We told stories of when I was young and used to punch my brothers in the face... that always makes Granny laugh. (I'm such a badass...lol) She told me how she can't sleep in her bed anymore because it makes her miss my Grandpa. She woke up too many times with tears rolling down her face, so sleeping in the recliner is just easier for her. I'm fine with that, whatever makes her happy. I did see some food on a plate in the sink, so I know she had eaten something recently, but all of her diabetic supplies were no where to be found. I'll make sure my cousin the pharmacist knows that...

Granny gave me some pictures of me as a wee lass, I'll get those scanned and up on the bloggy before too long. Some are pretty cute.

My dear old Granny made a comment last night that has stuck with me all day long. She has been going through everything, washing it, then putting it away. And I mean EVERYTHING, the medicine cabinet, the towels, everything. She also emptied out her deep freeze, cleaned it, and then put everything back in. What she said is this: "I don't want you guys coming in here to divide things up and remember me as a lousy housekeeper, so I'm getting everything ready". I had to sneak off to the bathroom to cry...

I love her so much, but she's sad. She's ready to see her husband again, we're just not ready for her to go. I want her to rock my babies to sleep... she just can't die. She can't.

I knew it would happen, but that doesn't make it any easier

2006-09-28T17:39:00.000-06:00

My grandmother has given up.

My dad spoke with my aunt earlier today, and it seems that Granny has been overtaken with the sadness and has decided just to quit.

She has stopped taking people's phone calls, I've been calling her since this past Saturday, and she hasn't answered once. My dad has been calling since Monday, and she hasn't answered his calls either. She has stopped coming to the door, and the only way we know she's still alive is my aunt has gone by twice and used the spare key hidden outside (for emergencies) to let herself in and check. She has even stopped eating, and has lost over 20 pounds in two weeks.

While my aunt was there my Grandma said that my aunt could start having the things that were left to her in the will, and that she wanted to meet with my dad to sign her house over to him.

I'm not sure what has prompted the inevitable. It could have been the big birthday party we had for her, she might of thought it was a nice memory to leave us all with. It could have been my grandpa's birthday that she couldn't make him a cake for. Maybe the end of the summer/ start of fall has done it, or even that she can't work in the yard or garden anymore due to the cooler temps.

Something has changed, and I know in my heart that she has just decided to quit. Living without her husband isn't something that she wants to do anymore, so she wants to be with him in heaven instead. So instead of making dinner, cleaning, or studying tonight I'm going to pick up some flowers and take them to my beloved Granny. I don't know if she'll come to the door when I'm there, but maybe when she opens it and sees that we still love her, maybe she won't quit after all.

Damn this is hard.

Some CRAZY storms

2006-09-23T18:39:00.000-06:00

Last night was pretty eventful.

First was Flight for Sight that benefits Prevent Blindness Oklahoma ( http://www.preventblindnessok.org/MainTulsaEvents.htm at the airport. My company is a sponsor and we're always given free tickets. Ace and I went there and had a great time. Of course when you have free food and alcohol it's hard to not have a great time. Ace participated in the silent auction and won me a tanning/ fitness package, and won Tojo a month of karate/ kickboxing lessons. That was definitely cool.

After we got home I crawled up to bed and was later awoken by massive thunder and lightning. Earlier while at the airport we could see the storm moving in, but I had no idea it would be this strong. The windows were rattling, thunder was booming, lightning strikes were flashing. This went on for a few hours, so needless to say I didn't sleep very well.

As I was leaving this morning for work it was still dark, so I couldn't see all the damage throughout the neighborhood, but apparently everyone else had it worse than we did. We had the phone line ripped off of the house, but that's no big deal because Ace and I just use our cell's. The family across the street lost nearly half a tree, and other houses lost large branches. The neighborhood Boys Club lost their sign, and another house down the street lost their privacy fence.

I'm at home now, after a pretty rough day with the doggies. Don't get me wrong, the dogs were great. It was the other employees that were the problem. I had 5 people scheduled to work, 6 if you count me. 3 of them called in sick, and a 4th was nearly an hour late. The one that was late decided he wasn't going to work anyway, so after running him out of our break area 3 times before noon, I just sent his lazy ass home. I did have a sit down with our director, and I told her of my problems and how I had worked there since February without so much as a sick day taken. I was working 7 days a week plus going to school, and I didn't have the patience or the mentality to deal with a bunch of laziness. I added that if I didn't get better help I was going to find a job elsewhere. She said she'd speak to the weakday manager and that she and I will have a sit down next Saturday to discuss a game plan to keep me there and satisfied. So I guess we'll just see how that goes.

I was nearly an hour and a half late coming home today, so we had to cancel our cook out we had planned for the boys, Ace and I. Needless to say, I'm irritated. We will just have Chinese food delivered instead.

Have a good rest of the weekend everybody, mine should hopefully get better from here.

2 down, 1 to go.

2006-09-20T18:12:00.000-06:00

2 of the 3 school related nightmares for the week are over. My paper was turned in Monday without incident, and today was the dreaded algebra test. It really wasn't so bad, and at the least I expect a high B on it. Which for me and my math skills, that's pretty good. I still have my history test, which I can take either Thursday or Friday. I'd like to do it tomorrow and just get it over with, but by moving it to Friday I give myself an extra day to study. So I'm shooting for Friday.

Other than that, life's good. Job's good, I'm taking a day off in a few weeks hopefully just to relax and catch Taco's football game. I tend to plan too many things into my days' off, and I never actually rest. I've got to stop doing that.

The Boom Dog and I played fetch for about 15 minutes when I got home today, he has taken up a new skill of hopping around like a bull that is bucking. So funny... the boy has no grace at all, and usually just ends up losing his balance and falling over.

Oh, Johnnie, sorry for the acne comments, I'm not an acne-covered-person-hater, it was just a coincidence. (hope I spelled that right. If not, it's my blog, so shush)

Eh?

2006-09-18T20:56:00.000-06:00

Some times I find that I'm so caught up in reading everyone elses blogs that I forget to actually write one myself. You all are just so much more interesting than the crap I consistantly write about school and my 35 pets and all of the other played out topics. Oh well.

In cool blog news, I have found that blogging helps me in my Comp class. (yep, school reference ALREADY) My first essay was taken directly from a blog a while back, and the new assignment from today is probably going to be the same way.

( the cat just pooped... funky)

I do have a rough week at school ahead. Well, today my essay was due, and I have two tests. One Wednesday, one Thursday. Yes, I realize I should be studying and not blogging, but oh well, here I sit.

Have I ever said how much I love hot dogs? I have craved a hot dog all day, and I finally ate one. Ok, I ate two. Sue me.

Wanna know something that bugs me? People that can't work, for whatever reason. I will be the first to admit that I base a big amount of respect that I carry for a person on their work ethic. Even if they suck at what they do, if they show up and give it their all, I'm generally ok. There are the ones that have excuse after excuse, however, as to why they just can't make it in some day. Then another day, then another. Pisses me off to no end. Yes, I realize that it's their paycheck that is suffering, but other people are the ones that have to cover for the slacker, and that's selfish. Those people suck, and I have no respect for them.

Oh, something else that bugs me. Friday night while the guys went to the football game I went to the mall. (Or Maul, as FBM refers to it) I went into 4 stores before someone even said a word to me. Yes, I realize that I might not be the coolest lady around, or the richest, but by gawd I have a credit card and if you pimple-faced assholes refuse to talk to me then I just won't buy any of your pretentious crap, and I'll shop elsewhere.

I'm not all bitter though (wow, this blog is pretty long. I'm impressed) I was able to take a 3 hour nap on Sunday afternoon, and it was oh so nice. I should be able to do that everyday. Something else that I should be able to do every day is have a strawberry popsicle with real fruit inside. Fantastic.

I think I'm done. Tune in tomorrow for updates from study land.

Something I remembered

2006-09-13T20:55:00.000-06:00

It's probably not a good idea to hire a girl covered with acne to run the Proactive kiosk at the mall. Just a suggestion.

Something else I remembered. I hate algebra. It sucks limp penis.

One more thing. Braums currently has their mixes on sale. I remembered how much I love chocolate mixes with strawberries.

Last thing, I swear.

I took Boom Dog for a walk today after class, and I remembered how happy it makes him. Now that he's well and it's cooler out I need to remember to do that more. You should have seen my baby prance... :)

Hello!!

2006-09-11T21:30:00.000-06:00

How is everybody?

It so weird not being able to come in and post whenever I like, the new job I have accepted in my company keeps me away from the internet throughout my day, so all of my posting/ reading must be done in the small amount of time I have to myself at home.

My weekend went great, the weather was awesome so I could get out and play with the dogs at my shelter for a decent amount of time. I love being able to play a nice game of fetch on a cool late summer day. So nice. :)

Sunday evening I went to my grandma's house, and I didn't realize it was Grandparents' day. Oh well, bonus points to me. My two older girl cousins were there, and the one who has children brought them along also. All the girl talk was rampant, and I found out that one of my cousins was at the exact same baseball game that I went to, not more than 10 rows to my right. Strange, right? Too bad I didn't know she was going, she could of come to lunch with Ace and I and met Jeter. (Linda, my cousin, was so envious of me for that)

Grandma has a new friend, which is sweet and sad to me at the same time. A stray cat has been hanging around her house, and although my grandma doesn't feed him, he still comes back. The sad/ sweet part is that she has started to call him by my grandfather's name. The cat will come up and purr and rub on her leg, and she tells him to "stop getting fresh" Whatever she has to do to deal with it is ok by me, even if she thinks my grandpa has been reincarnated into a stray cat.

Ah, yes. School. Classes are going well, studying is taking up SO much of my time. I'm exhausted right now, and I have no signs of a break any time soon. Oh well, one day I'm sure my hard work will pay off. I will be able to go out and pick out a nice house and have a brand new car in the drive way. I just have to work my ass off now to get there. But I can do it.

Ok, enough for now, it's past my bedtime.

Tagged, I'm it

2006-09-06T19:08:00.000-06:00

Tagged my Kathi, so here I go.

1. Things that scare me. ~~~~
-Being raped. Not sure why, but I've always been really afraid of this.
-Not being able to accomplish all of the things that I was always told I could never do. I'm determined to prove them wrong.
- My mom not knowing her grandkids.

2. People who make me laugh.~~~
- Everyone. I laugh all day, every day.

3. Things I hate most. ~~~~
- Idiots. Not the people that are just not as bright as others, but people that choose to be stupid.
- People that are inconsiderate or ungrateful.
- Anyone who hurts another living thing.

4. Things I don't understand.~~~
- Why people think that their pets need to have babies. Seriously, spend one day at the shelter with me, just answering phones. Hear all the stories of the abandoned and abused animals and you'll never want another litter.
- War. If people were just compassionate and understanding...
- How Chex cereal is made. How do they get all those little squares like that?

5. Things I'm doing right now.~~~
- I have a 2 loads of laundry going, the dishwasher running, I'm listening to a cd, and taking a short break from my algebra homework. Oh, and petting one of my cats.

6. Things I want to do before I die.~~ ~
- I want to finish school, get an awesome job, get married, and have a baby. Not necessarily in that order though

7. Things I can do.~~~
- I can listen when someone needs me to.
- I can be the best pet mommy to my cats and dog.
- Unwrap a starburst inside my mouth.
- Study...

8. Ways to describe my personality.~~~
- Corny. I can make anybody laugh at me if I try.
- Hardworking. Sometimes too hard.
- Compassionate. Especially for animals.
- Sincere. No one has ever accused me of being fake.

9. Things I can't do.~~~
- Dive. I am afraid of being upside down. (damn, should of put that at #1.)
- Do a cartwheel. See above.
- Live without my pets. Just one little purr or lick on the hand can completely soothe my soul.

10. Things I think you should listen to.~~~
- Yourself. You're the only one that knows what's best for you.

11. Things you should never listen to.~~~
- Rap music. So awful.
- Put downs. Don't listen to people that have negative things to say. They're just miserable about their own faults.

12. Things I'd like to learn.~~~
- How to scuba dive. Just not near sting rays.
- Why anyone thought that algebra was necessary...
- Who, who wrote the book of love?

13. Favorite foods.~~~
-Thai food. Oh baby.
- Seafood. Shrimp, crab, lobster, mmmm good stuff.
- Strawberry shortcake.
- Pumpkin pie.
- hot wings.

14. Beverages I drink regularly.~~~
- Water
- Smirnoff twisteds, especially the apple ones.
- Water with lemon.
- Oh yeah, water.

15. Shows I watched as a kid. ~~~
- Full House
- Saved by the bell
- The Price is Right (during the summer)
- Days of our Lives (as a teen)
- Wheel of Fortune

I tag... everyone on my blogroll that actually still has a blog. I know, I have a lot of updating to do. Maybe later.

Holy shiat

2006-09-05T14:58:00.000-06:00

Yes, in fact, that is Derek Jeter, Bernie Williams, and Jorge Posada standing next to Ace, Taco, Tojo, and others.

Use the above picture to get a good idea of how or vacation went. If you can't, it was farking awesome!!!

We left Tulsa at fairly early on Monday, and made it to KC around 2. We checked in, let the boys swim for a bit, then let Ace's mom pick our restaurant for a late lunch before heading to the ball park. Lucky for us, she picked a great italian place that had 3 Yankees eating in it. So cool... After we let them finish their meal Ace asked if all the guys would pose for a pic with the crew, and they did. Posada was a bit of a jerk, but since he just dropped $13 million on a plane, it was expected.

The game was great, the Yank's let the Royals think that they could win for a good part of the game, but come the 8th inning they showed those punks who was boss, and had a 10 run inning that lasted nearly an hour. Boy was that a fun hour. I don't think I've ever seen Ace happier.

After the game Ace's sister-in-law, who is pregnant, watched the kids so the rest of us could have a few drinks and some munchies in the hotel bar. After we grabbed the boys and made it to our room it was nearly 1 am, and we were all exhausted. Ace fell asleep holding my hand. Say it with me... "awwwww"

We all loaded up and headed to IHOP for breakfast, then hit the road back to Tulsa.

Awesome trip, great game, go Yankees.

Kansas City here we come!!!

2006-09-04T06:53:00.000-06:00

The car's packed. The boys are dressed. I have my very first ever baseball cap. The dog is at his babysitter's. The cats are fed. The gas tank is full.

We're ready to go to a baseball game.

Hell yeah, everybody cross your fingers and hope the Yankees win. They can't lose at the first game I go to.

I'm sure we'll have plenty of pictures for you all later.

XOXO

Overheard conversations

2006-08-31T20:57:00.000-06:00

Today at Taco's football practice I was sitting next to a few of the other team moms. A few of them seem to be pretty close, sharing personal stories and what-not. Here are a few of the over heard comments.

"I went and renewed my drivers license today. I've lost 8 pounds so I wanted to have the weight changed on it"

"Really?! Wow... today I had a handful of peanuts for breakfast, and a small caesar salad for lunch. I won't have any dinner, I've already had too much to eat today"

"Hey, do you want to get together and play Bunco this weekend? If so, will you pick me up some Michelob Ultra? That and white zin are the only things I drink. I just can't play Bunco without one of those two things"

And let us not forget the wardrobe discussion.

"I found the CUTEST purse at Foley's. It was only $750, so I think I'll whine until my husband buys it for me. "

and

"I found this ADORABLE little black tiered skirt at Saks. I call it my Senorita skirt. I just absolutely love it"

Seriously people, if I EVER sound this boring and pathetic, will someone take me out back and put me out of my misery? Good lawd.

Boy oh boy

2006-08-30T21:39:00.000-06:00

I had classes tonight, and due to the Labor Day holiday I won't have to go back for another week. Everything is going well, but I am definitely tired. But I know that I have to continue so I can one day make a decent living.

Speaking of making a living, starting next week I will have a different position within the company at Job Number One. I am moving from customer service to head up shipping and receiving. I hope it will be a lot less stressful, and I can wear jeans and t-shirts to work every day. Hell yes for that. The only downside is that I will not have access to the internet or to my email during the day, which will mean a lot less contact with Ace. It's definitely a good move for me though, so he and I will just have to deal. It will be the third different job that I've had in the 3 or so years since I was first hired, and honestly I think it's about time for the change. I enjoy what I do now, but it's hard for anyone to not get burned out. I have been training my replacement for a bit over a week now, and on Wednesday when I return from my trip (more on that later) I will be in the new job.

Poor ol Ace. My lovely boyfriend was mowing the lawn when I was in class this evening. He called me about 630, and asked me to call him when he was done. He then informed me that he was in the emergency room because, while mowing, a rock or some other sharp projectile hurled itself into his leg, and sliced him open pretty badly. He had jeans on, but it still did enough damage that it bled through his jeans very quickly, and then soaked his sock and shoe. He probably would not have gone to the ER, but his foot went numb, and he felt like a bone in his leg was broken. After class I met him there, they looked him over, closed him up with glue, gave him the Tetnus booster, and sent him on his way. Poor dude, I bought him some Crunch bars.

Oh, and last, the trip.

Monday (Labor Day) Ace, Taco, Tojo, Ace's parents, his brother, sister-in-law, nephew and I are all heading to Kansas City to attend the meeting of the Yankees and Royals. I'm so freaking excited!!! I haven't ever been to a pro game of any type, and since Ace is a die-hard Yankees fan it just seems fitting that this will be the first one I attend. We will be back Tuesday evening in time for me to get back to work Wednesday. Lucky ass Ace has taken vacation for the whole week. I thought about it, but instead I will use my last few vacation days of the year for finals week.

That's about all folks. Go tell someone that you love em.

Brrr

2006-08-29T13:48:00.000-06:00

This morning when I let Mr. Boom outside it was actually chilly. Just a week ago it was 106, and today it was in the 60s. Big difference.

I opened the windows and screen door, and turned on the attic fan. The house dropped 5 degrees in about 20 minutes, and barely used any electricity. Nice, right?

What was a tad strange to me was at 7:15 this morning I was craving a trip to the state fair for a corn dog. Hmmm. I love summer, but that first cool morning is oh so awesome.

Just in case...

2006-08-28T15:18:00.000-06:00

For those of you that have not seen the infamous "Saturday Night pictures of Ace and I, and the rest of our crew, here's one. So fun... and no, Ace isn't stoned. he just really looks like he is.

Have a good day folks.

Life is...busy

2006-08-27T18:56:00.000-06:00

I didn't like my first post, so this is the second one. :)

My new, crazy schedule has pulled me away from the ones I love far too much, and it's only been a week.

No, I'm not quitting, so don't start mentally composing your comments yet. But thanks for your diligence.

I'm just having to rethink my priorities and actually plan for things that used to just fall into place. Work, school, home. Not too bad, right? In all reality I spend 95% of my waking hours just taking care of business. The rest of the time is spent on hygene and eating. (Ace, please don't say how every time you see me I have food in my mouth, it's not nice manners...lol)

I must admit that multi-tasking is something that I've always been good at. This new life is creating a whole new meaning to the word though. I have discovered a few things that help things along though. Here's my list:

1. Morning sex. It just sets the day off right.

2. It's ok to leave dirty dishes in the sink and hope the cats lick them clean.

3. Boomer really can sit (still) at my feet while I read. (even if it's for only 5 minutes)

4. A fridge full of beer, a new video game, and a newly single friend can keep Ace occupied for days, all while still at home so I can keep the single friend from corrupting my lovely boyfriend.

5. While at work, no matter how busy I am, it's ok if I want to stop and go sit outside for 10 minutes just to regroup. Hiding in the conference room to work on something pressing so I'm not interrupted is perfectly fine too.

6. Nights out with friends that involve drinking and nonstop laughter are totally worth it, even
if I am exhausted the next day. (love you guys)

So far that's it, but it has only been a week. I have to get back to studying, and maybe some time today I'll eat dinner.

XOXO

Hello again!

2006-08-23T09:38:00.000-06:00

It's been a while, I know.

Working 2 jobs, class, and a home/ boyfriend/ 4 pets to take care of is proving to be a bit much, but never fear, I'm super girl, and I really can do it all!!! And I'm making sure I take time away from all of my responsibilities just to chill out and spend some quality time with Ace. I want to make sure he never feels left out because of everything I have to do and everywhere I have to be. That, and I picked up the new Madden game for him last night to combat his boredom while I'm in class or studying.

I had my first 2 classes Monday night, and they both went great. I love both of my instructors (so far) and the workload doesn't seem to be too difficult. I have another class tonight, and I will begin my internet class tomorrow. I have worked out a decent schedule for myself, which includes school and studies Monday - Thursday, and no more after that, except a small self-review on Sunday night. Hopefully by setting limits for myself I won't get too burned out/ overwhelmed. That will not be a good thing.

So far so good I say. Boomer seems really healthy after his heartworm treatments. He is able to play for longer amounts of time without getting winded. This past Sunday I took him to the shelter with me and let him play with a few of the other dogs. I had filled up a kiddie pool for him, and he flopped in and out of it, rolled all over the place and just loved playing in the water and with the other dogs. I think I'll try to take him back twice a month or so, he definitely had a good time.

Ok, back to work. XOXO

Never fear...

2006-08-18T17:39:00.000-06:00

Manders has the internet at home now!!!

Hells yeah.

Work has been kicking my ass lately (big understatement) but it's cool, because I can now blog from home (as I'm doing now)

It was a big hassle for a while, the first computer completely died for some reason, but the lovely folks at Circuit City replaced it for me. So good for them. We are now hooked up and ready to go.

Boomer's trip to the vet wasn't so bad. The doctor looked him over and said he was a 'tad' too heavy...lol. Just keep in mind that he has been on house arrest for the last month due to his treatment so I expected it. She gave him a bit more medicine, but lucky for him (and my spirit) this stuff didn't make him sick. The doctor listened to his heart and lungs, and said that everything sounds clear. He can start on the preventative in 2 weeks, and needs to be restested in 6 months. So we're not COMPLETELY out of the woods, but very close.

I'm still battling with the DPS over my license. Hopefully this next week will solve all of that. I can't go without a license afterall...

Ah, school starts Monday. Scary stuff folks. I'm already unbelievably overwhelmed, but I know that it has to be done. I just want to make sure that everyone is on their toes and makes sure to remind me not to drop out. Do whatever it takes. I won't let you let me quit... or something.

The countdown begins

2006-08-15T09:43:00.000-06:00

T-minus 6 days and counting until school starts. Yep, next Monday the 21st I am officially a college student. Scary stuff everybody... I'm excited though. I have always loved meeting new people and learning new things, so I'm sure I'll be just fine.

Our internet is being hooked up tomorrow, and I know that having a home computer, although expensive, will definitely help with my studies. Plus, when Ace is watching hours upon hours of baseball I will have something else to do.

Friday we hooked up our digital cable. With digital cable comes OLN, and with OLN comes the PBR baby!! Saturday and Sunday night both I plopped down in front of the tv and watched person after person going flipping through the air after being bucked off, it was awesome. I loves me some PBR.

Poor Tojo had to get stitches Friday night, but in his own words, 'he was very brave'. I feel so bad for the dude. We'll get him some Mederma though so hopefully his scar won't be very bad.

Ah, in other news, it rained last night FINALLY. Rained pretty hard actually. I left Boomer in his bedroom this morning while I took a shower so he hopefully wouldn't get out and play in the mud. He heard me up and around though, so he broke out of his room and surprised me in the shower again. You would think that I learned my lesson the first time, but nope. Screamed again.

Speaking of Boomer, he goes back for some heartworm followup something or other on Thursday. I don't know if it's bloodwork or a shot or whatever, I just hope he doesn't get sick like last time. Thursday also happens to be his very first birthday, so I'll try to take a new pic and have that up some time soon.

That's about it folks,

XOXO

Funny story from the home front

2006-08-11T09:49:00.000-06:00

Last night Taco (the oldest) and Tojo (the youngest) spent the night with Ace and I.

They were all at football practice until 730, so this of course delayed dinner. I wasn't in much of a mood to cook, and there really weren't any groceries in the house anyway, so I ordered some pizza. So dinner was delayed even more.

All of this really isn't that important, except to explain why the boys were still awake at 1045 when I went to bed.

Anyhow, I'm in bed for about 10 minutes (Ace is still up watching digital cable, we just got it yesterday) when I hear Tojo crying in their bedroom. Oh lovely.

I go in there, and he's really crying, not just whiney whimpering type crying because of something minor, but REALLY crying. He's standing in the middle of the bedroom, looking toward the floor in the corner.

Me: "What's wrong Tojo?"

Him:"My blanket"

Me: "Your blanket? Can you not find it?"

Him: "It's in the corner, it's wet. There's pee on it"

Me: "Pee? You're wide awake, how did you get pee on your blanket?"

Him: "Taco did it"

Me: "Taco, did you pee on his blanket?"

Taco: "I couldn't make it to the bathroom in time"

Now, I know these kids. Neither one of them wet the bed, ever. Not to mention that they haven't even been to sleep yet!

Me: "Now we both know that isn't true, and nobody like a liar. Why did you pee on your brother's blanket and make him upset?"

Taco: "He made me mad, he wouldn't share it with me, and then tried to stand on me"

Me: "So, instead of using YOUR blanket, you PEED on his? Come on now... "

I'm seriously trying to hold back the laughter because I know it will only traumatize Tojo even further, so after Tojo says that he doesn't want to sleep in the same room with his brother, I grab his pillow and a fresh blanket, and move him to the couch in the study.

Then I can laugh, while Ace lectures Taco for the pee.

Sometimes it's lovely not being the actual parent, I just get to enjoy moments like this instead of being the disciplinarian. Ah, good stuff.

Uh oh

2006-08-10T09:16:00.000-06:00

I guess by now everyone has heard of the terrorist plot that was foiled last night/ this morning? I don't know too many of the details, only that it again involved airplanes and the US and the UK. Lovely. Honestly it has be a bit scared. So I'm trying my best to avoid the news stories. I'd rather not know what was going on. I do wish that a lot of our military personnel were closer to home though, just in case. They're too far away for the impending WWIII.

That's all I have to say about that....

I surprised Mr. Ace with a new watch last night. The battery in his old one died a few days ago, and instead of fixing it, I opted to just get him a new one. The other was a couple of years old, and I love him, so I just replaced it. He seems to really like it, so that's good. He got home last night kind of late, after I was already asleep. After he saw his present he came up, kissed me, and said I'm the best girlfriend ever. Awww, right?

Other than that, it's still a hot bitch outside. It's supposed to be a whopping 105 today, with a heat index of 115. Holy hell. At least over the weekend when I have to work outside it's only supposed to be about 98. Ah, a break. :P

I'm the boss, Happy surprise Granny, Dog takes a shower

2006-08-07T14:27:00.000-06:00

Well it was back to work at the kennel for me Saturday and Sunday, and my first weekend as boss. Everything went pretty well, no real trouble from anybody. I was complimented on the fact that I helped everyone work all day long, instead of acting like the other managers and hanging out in the office. Of course, perhaps that's why they aren't managers anymore and I am.

I did leave early on Saturday to head out to my dad's for Granny's surprise party. I had the responsibility of delivering her to the party, so after I dropped off Ace and the boys I went to get her. When we got back there a few people had already arrived, but she really started to appear happy when the 18th or so person came filing in. Other than cooking, eating, and talking, nothing much really happened. Which to me was perfect. No arguments (there never are) or anything. I did realize that my cousin has a bratty son. Whew boy that kid was out of control. You would expect that the child of a teacher and a highway patrolman would act better, but nope. Oh well, such is life.

Last night after work I hopped in the shower, because frankly, I stunk. It was a hot bitch yesterday and I was rank. I didn't realize, however, that the dog had snuck into the bathroom. While I was washing my face all of a sudden my leg was licked, and I screamed like a sissy. That dang dog scared me silly. He just cocked his head to the side and looked at me like I was the crazy one. But then he thought it was fun, so he decided to hop in the shower with me. Let me tell you how much fun that was. He was splashing around and drinking the water at the bottom of the tub. Once he was fairly wet, he shook. All the time I just spent getting the dog funk off was just instantly replaced. So, of course, I had to get the dog out. He left without too much trouble, so I started all over. Oh well, he looked like he had fun.

Here goes nothing...

2006-08-04T13:25:00.000-06:00

Last night I enrolled in night classes at the local junior college.

I plan to get an associates degree in general education, then I'll move up to the nursing program offered at OU.

Yes, I realize that I will be worn smooth out, and gone from home even more often, but I also know that this will provide the best life for me, so I'm just going to have to suffer for a bit.

So here's what I need. Any time you know of me bitching for being tired and wanting to quit, I need to be reminded of how much better life will be for me in...oh... 5 years or so. Whatever you have to do, send me pics of fancy cars, tell me it will all be ok, tell me to shutup, whatever. Just don't let me quit.

Thanks,
XO

Question for the day:

2006-08-02T13:27:00.000-06:00

What is better, a pretty face, or a hot body?

And I want to hear from guys and girls alike.

For me I'd say pretty face, because I'm too lazy to get myself a hot body.

Post # 250, and the DPS sucks

2006-08-01T12:04:00.002-06:00

I just realized that this is my 250th post. If only my supervisor knew I did this instead of working..lol

At lunch today I went to get the tag for my car. $750 fucking dollars. Outrageous. Total waste of money.

But that's not the crappy part.

It's also time for me to renew my drivers license. So I go, sit in the chair, smile pretty, and the lady says "sorry, it shows here that your license is suspended".

WTH? I haven't had a ticket in years, and never one that went unpaid. She couldn't tell me why it was suspended, just that I needed to call this number. Of course.

When I get back to the office I call, and they tell me that when I had my previous car my insurance lapsed, and I was turned in to them for driving with no coverage.

Hmm, that's funny. I specifically remember transferring to a different company before the first policy ran out.

So I called my current company, who I also had 2 years ago when this all started. And sure as shit, I've had coverage with them during the time in question. Now I just need the paperwork faxed from StateFarm so I can refax it to the DPS. Otherwise I have to send the DPS $250 for reinstatement. Right, because I'm rich.

All in all, a big pain in the ass for absolutely nothing. Fucking Farmers insurance. Now I'm glad I cancelled them. Well that, and my agent spent more time looking at my boobs than trying to write me a policy. Bastards caused all this trouble.

Alrighty, I'm done complaining.

In other news, I made the trek to my grandfather's grave last night. It wasn't nearly as bad as I thought. Seeing his name on the headstone sucked though. When I first saw it I cried. But after I sat and talked for a bit I was ok. I'm glad I went and told him Happy Birthday. He would have been 86.

The best dad, and boss, ever.

2006-07-31T14:36:00.000-06:00

Money.

I have a love/hate relationship with money. I love it when I have it, and hate it when I don't.

I have been needing to get my car tagged since May, but because of the hit-and-trot I haven't been able to afford it. $650 for a small piece of metal is a lot to this girl, especially if it doesn't have diamonds attached. On top of that, I've been wanting to get into some classes this fall, and I just really didn't have the money necessary for either.

Well today everything changed.

My dad came by the office today at lunch to see how I was doing and to chat for a bit. He's on vacation this week to get his house ready for Granny's party on Saturday and was running errands on this side of town, so he stopped by. He asked me how close I was to refilling my tag fund after it was depleted from the body shop. I said "not even close". So he handed me $500! Hell yeah! Not bad right? That buys almost the whole thing.

So that takes care of one thing.

Now onto number two. School. I broke down and asked my boss for a pay advance, and he gave it to me. Not that I doubted he would, he does it for everybody. I still hated asking though. I can pay for school now though, and I just have to pay back a little bit at a time from each check, so little that I probably won't even miss it.

So yep, everything's taken care of. I can get my tag, and pay for my tuition and books. Cool, right?

And thanks to Dad and Boss, you guys are awesome.

In other news, today is Grandpa's birthday, so I am going to try and go to the cemetery after work. Key word is try.

I'm ashamed of myself

2006-07-28T10:24:00.000-06:00

About a month ago I put in for time off at the shelter to go on a weekend float trip. Due to a sick doggy, we're staying home.

So here I sit, one day before my two days off. My first two days off in two months, and the only thing I can think to do tomorrow and Sunday is lay on the couch.

But guess what folks? I absolutely refuse to do that. Yes, I need the rest, but I'm not wasting my one and only weekend so far this summer by laying on the couch. No sir, I'm going to enjoy it.

What am I doing? I have no farking idea. None. We have Ace's boys all weekend, so it has to be kid friendly. And I need ideas, so I came to the blog.

Help me folks. I've (sadly) got nuthin.

Manders got...

2006-07-26T09:30:00.000-06:00

A promotion!!

I had a call at the end of the day yesterday, but since I was stuck working late at job #1 I wasn't able to return it. I called back this morning during my break, and was offered the weekend supervisor position at the shelter.

Cool, right?

It comes with a pay raise, but not much of one. I'm ok with that, granted everyone can use extra money, but the job has so many other advantages that a large raise isn't necessary.

Ok, that's my good news. :)

A nice cool break~ and other random shit.

2006-07-24T12:27:00.000-06:00

This past weekend has great weather, it was about 20 degrees cooler locally than it had been for the previous week. Not bad really for late July.

At the shelter we spent our down time fixing up the outdoor yards because one of the news stations was coming this morning (monday) to do a story on keeping the dogs safe from the heat. We're always open to the added exposure, so we wanted to make sure the place looked extra nice. Of course this meant filling in the holes they had dug with wheelbarrow's full of sand and other things like that, but honestly the work needed to be done anyway. Because of the cooler weather the dogs were a lot more active, and being able to just get out and play some fetch and brush some of them really seemed to help with their attitudes. Gone were the panting, sad, hot little dogs. They were replaced with running, barking, playing happy pups. Which, in turn, is good for my mood as well.

Mr. Boom is doing very good. He's a lot healthier than I expected for him to be, and when I spoke to his vet on Saturday she and I discussed everything that he does on a daily basis, and she told me that I'm doing everything perfectly. She wants me to cut back on some of his canned food though so he won't gain weight while being so confined during his rehabilitation, which of course, would just stress his heart further. So Boom will be upset, but I agreed to cut him back to a half a can a day instead of a full one.

Ace and I decided not to go floating this year, we just can't leave the doggy while he's sick. I am bummed, I was definitely looking forward to getting out and having a nice time. But of course, the dog's health is first. Hopefully it will still be warm enough that the dog can go with us on a day trip to the lake when he is off of restriction.

I posted that I got my car back from the body shop, right? I sure missed it. I loved the truck that I had borrowed from my dad, but the amount of gas it required was rediculous. Plus, the car is just more comfortable.

Plans are coming along for Granny's party. She still doesn't know about it, and I'm curious to see if we can keep it a secret until the day of. I just want to see her freak. Lucky for us, her heart is strong. (lol)

That's about it folks. Today is somebody's last day here at job #1, so we're off to have cake and say our goodbye's. Have a good week.