Order of Disarray

Don't mess with a marching band!...

2011-11-24T12:45:00.001-05:00

Take note of the perfect cymbal crash...

Honey Badger don't care...

2011-10-10T08:00:00.000-04:00

In case you're the one person on the planet that hasn't seen this or at least heard of it...

LMAO!

How to piss off every nerd on the planet...

2011-10-09T13:00:00.000-04:00

Wow...I've been quiet!

Sorry!

Well here's a good laugh for you...

How to piss off every nerd on the planet...

9/11...

2011-09-11T16:40:00.002-04:00

Some people are saying it's a little easier this year. That their wounds are finally starting to heal.

I guess I'm not one of them. I'm not sure why, but it's worse this year than ever for me. I don't know if it's because the past two years of my life have been a major roller coaster leaving me a little more emotionally raw so I feel it more or what.

I can handle watching memorials, features of the families, hero stories...but the instant I see footage of the plane hitting the second tower, the towers collapsing, or even a still photo of the second plan about to hit I have a complete breakdown. Instant sobbing. Not just tears.

I admit I'm an emotional person.And that might surprise some people. Not the break-down-in-tears-about-everything kind of emotional...but I feel it. More of an empathetic emotional person. If you're sad, I'm sad. If you're angry, I'm angry.

So maybe I'm just even more emotional this year, or maybe my brain is just now finally wrapping around it...whatever the case is, it's hard this year.

I watched 'Beyond: Messages from 9/11' on Biography. It was a program that talked about families that received some sort of message from their departed loved ones (died on 9/11). It focused on the people, their story, their families, their kids...good stuff. And then the messages were...nice, closure, gestures, symbols.
That was a good program. The last one was a profile of a firefighter that responded and they then showed lots of footage and I lost it. But his story was how at the end of the day he survived without a scratch though the building literally fell on him...or all around him and he somehow was protected. After helping others and getting out and doing what he could the rest of the day, he walked home, across the Brooklyn Bridge. Despondent. Having a little trouble coming to grips with why he was left unharmed and so many were not. Half way across the bridge he encountered a construction worker that was just leaning on the railing but when he saw the fireman he reached out his hand and thanked him for what he was doing. He also said to him that there is a reason he survived and he should do what he can with his life because of it. They walked together to the end of the bridge and the worker veered off onto a side path. The firefighter was met by a couple of policemen that were handing out water and giving directions, they had been watching him. The firefighter asked if he could get a bottle of water for his friend he crossed with, he'd take it to him. The policemen looked at him and each other confused. They said to him that he had crossed alone, there was no one with him. They were worried as they watched him cross. They thought by the looks of him that he was going to jump. They were relieved when he continued across after he paused half way. The firefighter could hardly believe what they were saying, but knew that something special had happened. And that he would go on to share his own story of 9/11...carry on the story. He was meant for something alright.

I watched some of the memorial services today. The 9/11 memorial is really beautiful. I love the footprint waterfalls. I could handle watching that. Although I won't easily forget the man that bent himself over the name of his loved one and just cried and cried. But I also won't forget the little children that sat themselves down in the grass nearby and played solitaire with their deck of cards...life going on in the middle of where they were. To some it may have appeared like they didn't care but I didn't see it that way. I saw it as just what I said...life going on, kids being kids, making the best of what they could. They were clearly too young to be aware of what happened when it happened. But since they were there, and today only families were allowed, and probably being New York kids, I'm sure they knew about it. It made me smile a little to see them.

Then there was a link to this video a friend posted on Facebook...by Nickelodeon. It puts 9/11 into perspective and answers questions from kids in kids' terms. It's actually a nice little video...

Get More: Nick News Episodes,Nick News,Nick News Games

However you choose to remember today...the important thing is you remember.

Really really want this...

2011-09-04T17:05:00.003-04:00

Because I still feel like my heart is there...

You can get almost any state it looks like...

But here is Indiana...
http://www.etsy.com/listing/63975045/i-heart-indiana

Maybe someday I'll be ready for this...but not yet.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/64169491/i-heart-texas

Look how cute these are too...

http://www.etsy.com/listing/65670932/leaves

http://www.etsy.com/listing/61161617/wings

Another good show gets cancelled...

2011-08-28T20:19:00.003-04:00

How I feel after hearing that Eureka has been cancelled...
Hand off of Warehouse 13!!!

Most awesome car window ever!!!...

2011-08-25T19:18:00.001-04:00

With matching sticker.

UPDATED: better picture?

It's the view from the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon as they enter light speed. :)
And the little Millennium Falcon sticker below.

Love it!

New hobby...

2011-08-14T15:37:00.001-04:00

Pixelated Harry Potter is taking shape!

Accessorize with your favorite movie...

2011-07-28T22:30:00.000-04:00

Or at least my favorite movie...

Recycled Book Bracelet... $15

Unforgivable Curses Ring Set...$14
Very cool! And adjustable!!!

From the same seller...
Lumos & Nox Ring Set....$10
I might have to get these...

Cuz I bought this today and I need rings to go with it!
'Up to No Good' Bracelet...$18

I can't wait to get it!

Maybe I should get this for the other wrist...
'Mischief Managed' bracelet...$18

There's this for the wrist too...simple
Expelliarmus bracelet...$14.95

They also have 'Expecto Patronum'.
And LOST reference jewelry...and Dr. Who...and other geekery! LOVE this shop!!!

The Deathly Hallows...$25

Also from the same shop
Deathly Hallows Ring...$12

Sorcerer's Stone necklace...$36

REALLY cute and simple twist on the Snitch!
Snitch Necklace...$16.95

Cuuuuuute Lumos & Nox Earrings...$16

Or simply...
Lightning Necklace...$14

Sorry I've been neglectful...

2011-07-22T21:52:00.000-04:00

I've been super busy at work so when I get home I'm exhausted! I just can't bear to look at a computer again!

So to make it up to you...here are some funnies...

Harry Potter...A Look Back...

2011-07-13T22:45:00.000-04:00

The Story of Snape...

2011-07-13T22:38:00.000-04:00

bittersweet...

2011-07-12T20:48:00.002-04:00

2011-07-11T19:35:00.001-04:00

I don't care if you think dancing is boring or if you think ballroom is boring...you've GOT to check this couple out!

Full HP trailer...and some extra vids...

2011-07-04T19:02:00.001-04:00

this one is a tear-jerker...

I'm getting giddy!!...

2011-07-02T21:10:00.002-04:00

I will be very tired at work Friday July 15th.
Because I will have been at the midnight showing of Harry Potter!!!
I. Can't. Wait!

So You Think You Can Dance...

2011-06-30T19:54:00.001-04:00

I LOVE this show!
And this season...wow...so many wonderful dancers. I love when the dance makes you laugh, makes you smile, or makes you cry...or as in this case...sigh/gasp/smile/love!

This one is about a guy who is left at the altar and his female best friend supports him...and half way through he realizes he loves HER and she be with HER!!!

Just watch...

I wanna be kissed like that!!!

Who doesn't?!

I love so many dancers...Melanie & Marko, Jordan & Tadd, Jess...

I'm sure I'll be posting more. :)

The Harry Potter experience continues...

2011-06-24T08:00:00.000-04:00

You can now enter your email address at JK Rowling's Pottermore website!

And watch the video...it's pretty clever.

I've been...

2011-06-23T20:34:00.003-04:00

These are all the states I've been in. I'm counting passing through on road trips...which might be the only way for me to mark all 50!

Now here's a map of all the states I've visited...on purpose...as a destination...

Make your own map here..
http://douweosinga.com/projects/visited?region=usa

You can also do some other countries!

Here are all the places I would love to visit someday...
Some are so small...like ALL the Caribbean islands...that you can't see!

IKEA...

2011-06-19T18:01:00.001-04:00

The IKEA here is only about 10-15 minutes away from work.
DANGER!

But convenient...because I went and got designer overload when it came to figuring out my den and having it so close means I don't have to make a decision on the spot. I can come home and think about it. And probably won't make as many impulse buys. Maybe.

I went to get a desk I've had my eye on. But when I sat at it I wasn't so sure. Not to mention that there were so many other things that I liked too.

Here's what I was going to get:

But I sat at it and thought, I think it's still going to be too big. And was all of a sudden liking the white look too.

I was looking at these...

Separates...

Desk tops

help me there's a green desk top!

Support Options

help me there's a green storage support!

Leg Options

There's lots of options now. And after going back to my apartment and sitting in the den and measuring and such, I decided the desk portion does need to be smaller. Like no bigger than 48".

I'm thinking of doing a simple table-like desk with maybe this to the side...

An open bookcase.
The printer can sit on top and the cubbies can hold paper and cute storage boxes.

See the way I plan it, the automatic litterbox will be in the corner of the den and this bookcase will sit in front of it kind of shielding it from view. And will also act like a desk return. (small side of L-shape).

I also need a TV stand for my ginormous 32" tube TV. Yes. I still have a tube TV. One thing at a time peeps. The thing is stupid-heavy. I hate it. And I think the movers damaged the screen a tiny bit. *sigh*
Anyway, I still need something to put it on. And why are the windows so damn low in my apartment!? So I need a low stand.
I like this...

And it's on sale for $40! Not sure when that sale ends.
I think I'll get this for sure...just now...what color?
I have a black-brown fake wood tall bookcase in the den and thought originally I was going to go that way but now I'm feeling the white.
Thoughts?

Here are some other things I liked and am contemplating...

Frame

thought I'd paint it a real funky color and put a funny cross-stitch in it

This lamp is super funky!

The dots on the shade are actually holes but the way they're made you don't ever get a direct glare of the light bulb through the holes. Very cool. Maybe new living room lamps? $20 is pretty darn good!

How cool are these?

A table (or floor) lamp with long bendable LED sticks you can make it look however you want!

Cool...but not sure what I'd do with it just yet.

I love these tiny LED lights. There's a strand or you can get the hoops. I thought that would be cute on my little patio. But I don't really like my apartment that much so not sure I'll be staying after the year's up but that's a whole other blog post. Point is...might hold off on this idea too.

Then they had some fabulous bedding...and I want to change up mine...

The inspiration...

And this blanket was thrown across several display beds and I just love it!

Isn't the embroidery fab!? Love the colors too!

I like this quilt too but...just not sure...too country?

Think I want a solid bedspread to go with all the patterns on the pillows and the texture of the accent blanket.

Oh IKEA...I heart you. And hate you. But mostly heart you.

Happy Father's Day!...

2011-06-19T12:43:00.001-04:00

This reminds me of so many people I can't even tell you...
Hilarious!

Space geek...

2011-06-14T08:00:00.006-04:00

Stacy:
I dig outer space. I find it fascinating and am saddened by the NASA budget cuts.
There's just so much to discover out there.

So while some of you will find the following video boring. I really find it intriguing and beautiful. I hope you enjoy...
the description is below.

CASSINI MISSION from Chris Abbas on Vimeo.
I truly enjoy outer space. It's absolutely amazing that we now have the ability to send instruments out into the void of the universe to observe all sorts of interesting things. Asteroids! Moons! Planets! Dark matter! This is the perfect opportunity for a Carl Sagan quote:

"Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known."

The footage in this little film was captured by the hardworking men and women at NASA with the Cassini Imaging Science System. If you're interested in learning more about Cassini and the on-going Cassini Solstice Mission, check it out at NASA's website:

http://saturn.jpl.nasa.gov/science/index.cfm

Track: 2 Ghosts I, Ghosts I – IV by Nine Inch Nails

http://ghosts.nin.com/

Stacy:
I did not write the above description, it is directly from the vimeo site.

I'm into the music. I'm totally going to buy the album from Amazon. $5 for the whole thing.
http://www.amazon.com/Ghosts-I-IV/dp/B00158SHD8/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=IAK8674GXHZ62&colid=30RCWQ02AV4JO

What are the chances...

2011-06-13T08:00:00.001-04:00

So I finally took in the Amish peanut butter from The Blue Gate in Shipshewana to work (along with some good wheat bread) to share the Amish country goodness.

It was gone in 2 hours flat. They loved it.
But that's not the best part.

A coworker stops me when I walk by her desk and she asks if I'm from Northern Indiana. Do I have family in "Shipshe"? Shipshe. As soon as I heard this I knew something was up. Only locals know to call it 'Shipshe'. So I'm saying 'yes' and nodding all the while with this strange 'WTF' look on my face I'm sure.

I say that yes I was born and raised in Elkhart and have family all over the area. Shipshe, Middlebury...
She jumps in and says that she is from Middlebury. She has family there and Shipshe and Topeka. My eyes widen. Am I hearing this right? Me too! Amish relatives on both sides!

Her last name...Miller. She runs through relatives' last names. Same ones as me!

Is this really happening?

We talk more and her parents and my mom went to the same tiny high school in Middlebury. Her parents graduated 2 years before my mom. An aunt a year after. I pull up my family tree on ancestry.com. She's sure that one of the names looks familiar. But that's the problem with the last name Miller...there's a lot of them.

At this point we are still unsure if we are related but it's strange enough that we are not just from the same state, but same county, and same family background. Towns only 15 miles apart.
And we end up working for the same company more than 1,000 miles away from home!!

Want more spooky?

We both worked for the same design firm in Indy too...just not at the same time.

Think about that.
One person from Middlebury, Indiana - Pop. 3,420 today
One person from Elkhart, Indiana - Pop. 50,949

What are the chances of two people from these towns working at the same company twice.
In a city over 1,000 miles away with over 2 million people we end up at the same company that employs less than 100 people.
Seriously...it's mind-boggling.

photo by: me :)

Wanna see where I sit all day?...

2011-06-12T18:13:00.000-04:00

So I have well meaning intentions of taking some great photos of my entire office. But I've only gotten as far as my desk. :)

Mine is the one with the little things taped up on the outside.

What do you think?

Wow.

2011-06-04T16:33:00.002-04:00

Timelapse - The City Limits from Dominic on Vimeo.
scenes from Chicago, Manhattan, Montreal, Quebec and Toronto

Of course I love the music...
just bought it on Amazon.
It is 'Time' by Hans Zimmer from the Inception soundtrack.

Indy 500 Intro Video...

2011-06-02T20:25:00.001-04:00

Pretty damn cool video....

(and I've always liked this actor)...

2011 Texas Crawfish & Music Festival...

2011-05-31T22:03:00.069-04:00

Warning...long blog post ahead...but mostly pictures.

The festival is held in a little town called Spring but everyone calls it Old Town Spring. Is there more than one Spring? Is there a New Town Spring? I have yet to find these answers.

Old Town Spring reminds me a lot of Nashville, IN. Little town whose houses have been converted into cute shops...tourist trap...but we love those don't we?

But this is about the FESTIVAL!!!

To the pics!...

Yes the sign does have SQUIRREL listed. I don't actually know if they actually had it.

A lot of it kind of reminded me of the Elkhart County 4H Fair.

Except for the squirrel. And gator on a stick. And everything costing 'tokens'. And the heat and dirt...oh wait, no, that part is the same. Except this was May. And it was HOT! H.O.T.

I probably shouldn't have had this...

(wine)

But I'm pretty sure this...

saved me from passing out.

I'm not joking.

I did not prepare for the dehydration!

Now this is just my opinion but...I saw a couple things that I didn't think really belonged here.

See for yourself...

Need help?

Um, Amish Barn? Here? Wait a sec.

I guess this is just coming from an Amish Country girl...I really know where to go.

But I'll probably still check it out when I come back to actually go to the stores.

And this...

I think the crowd were in the same mind set...notice the line. Or...the lack thereof. Corn. In May. In Texas.

It ain't fresh.

One thing I know for sure that Indiana does better.

And being the Hoosier, I also know when corn is actually in season.

Now...you see this guy? The guy in the yellow hat?

I thought...'awesome! I'll talk to a local and learn how to properly eat a boiled crawfish!'

He obliged my photo-taking.

Drool.

Look at him go! I watched him down a dozen and a half or so.

And the best part...he gave me one. :)

He insisted.

And it's just plain rude to resist an insist.

Seriously it is.

I'm not kidding.

Everyone's so polite you just smile and be gracious!

Anyway...this "local"...

a 'kiwi' from NEW ZEALAND!

Leave it to me to pick the most non-local person in the place to talk to! But he and his friend were so nice. Thank you kiwis!!!

We chatted a bit and non-yellow hat guy told me that they came here to Houston to work for a couple years.

That was 12 years ago.

Will that happen to me too?

Sidenote: Look at all these mudbugs!!!!

I wonder how many tons they actually went through?

Sidenote: the only nasty thing about this fest were the half crawfish bodies laying around if they missed the trash.

Sidenote: go back up to Mr. Kiwi's picture and see the 'table'. The center of it is actually a huge trash barrel. You just stand there and rip off the front half of the crawfish and toss it. Genious!

I was dared to eat a deep fried Oatmeal Cream Pie...

I would rather have had a non-fried one. It was...ok. But was pretty much a big sweet pile of fried...stuff. meh.

Now this is Texas...

dancing at the Zydeco stage.

...poker playing on the sidewalk...

...you can buy anything Texas at Y'Alls Texas Store...

...boot birdhouses...

both tacky and cute

I'm sorry, you're stand is named what?

LOL!!!!

Sidenote: Kiwi is the nickname used internationally for people from New Zealand, as well as being a relatively common self-reference. The name derives from the kiwi, a flightless bird, which is native to, and the national symbol of, New Zealand. The usage is not offensive, being treated with pride and endearment as a uniquely recognisable term for the people of New Zealand.

Thank you Wikepedia...I knew my mom would want to know.

Best Care Package EVER!...

2011-05-30T18:22:00.010-04:00

There are a few things you just can't get down here in Houston. So I asked my parents to send me a little care package. I wanted some canned Skyline Chili so I could make my own Chili 5-way. Skyline doesn't span out past the midwest...at all.

And I wanted some Amish peanut butter and apple butter from Shipshewana, 2 peanut butters so I could take one into work. And I also asked for some kind of Amish tchotchke...a magnet or something that I could put up in my workstation.

They came through, with a bonus...I got SIX cans of Skyline chili!!! I'm down to five already. And it was delicious.

So a deer fell through the ice...

2011-05-29T16:42:00.002-04:00

And this helicopter pilot had a rather 'out of the box' solution to getting it to safety...

Wheeeeeeeeeee!!!!

More Animal Cuteness...

2011-05-27T19:33:00.002-04:00

Strange buddies...

Try not to laugh at the kittie acrobatics trying to catch his friend in flight!

Cute birdie...

2011-05-27T19:22:00.002-04:00

This bird is having a good ol' time!
And check out his awesome smarts near the end when the ball goes under the table!

:P

2011-05-21T11:44:00.001-04:00

I'm totally just going around the interwebs and stealing other posts from people and posting them as my own.
Why not...the world's ending right?

It's the end of the world as we know it...

2011-05-21T11:41:00.001-04:00

I'll see you tomorrow if today truly is not rapture. :)

ADOPT a new friend today...

2011-05-11T21:18:00.000-04:00

How CUTE is this?!?!
I'd adopt 50 if I could!

Big crowds CAN be sweethearts...

2011-05-10T19:56:00.007-04:00

It was Disability Awareness Day and the folks at Fenway did a lot of great things for kids with challenges..here is one who sang and when he got nervous the Fenway Faithful helped him out

Guaranteed to make you smile...

Still Disarrayed...but getting there...

2011-05-08T19:30:00.035-04:00

I still have boxes piled in the den, my dining table is shoved up against the wall with things on top of it...and under it, I still have random things in random places but I got a few things unpacked and out that are important to me...

There are several things in the photo above that make my apartment feel more like home...the tassel on the doorknob of the bathroom (just a little touch I do), the flowers my mommy sent to my office Friday :), the wreath that I wanted to go on the outside of my front door but they keep the doors so tight here to keep the bugs out I couldn't do it, the 'Executive' sign (one of my first 'wall purchases' and finds from an antique store, the 'Blue Bike' photo that I took in Shipshewana and my horseshoe.

Do I hang this horseshoe because I love the Indianapolis Colts? No. Although a nice tie-in. Horseshoes hanging above your door are supposed to bring you luck. And this particular horseshoe I got in Middlebury near my hometown. And reminds me of the horses pulling the Amish buggies around town. :) Home.

Now this is something I wanted to put out immediately. It really means a lot to me. Very significant. I mean...the message...if you want to be happy...BE. Be happy. You can choose to be happy. Sure circumstances can get you down at times, but for life on the whole you can choose happiness and optimism or...not. It's a great message and reminder.

And it was made by one of my dearest and talented friends Melissa Nees Hauger. It's actually a greeting card she sent me. A woodcut print she did herself, adding even more meaning for me.

And it's green.

There are just certain things you have in your home that you would never live without. Or at least wouldn't want to. Yes, I could live without the tassel and the flowers will die.

But shown here the things I will not ever be without...the horseshoe, my blue bike photo, and most of all my 'be happy' print from my dear friend.

What do you have in your house that if you had to leave tomorrow you would grab to take with you?

I have other things I'll never be without, I'll share them too as I go along.

New favorite YouTube channel...

2011-05-05T20:15:00.001-04:00

Talking animals...

Not just cats & dogs...

If you aren't laughing check your pulse!

Way to go USA!...

2011-05-02T00:07:00.027-04:00

Osama Bin Laden is dead. And no U.S. troops were harmed and no civilian casualties in the operation.
Awesome! And great speech Mr. President!!!

A few funny comments (in celebration of course) on Facebook and Twitter...

"Very disappointed that we killed Osama Bin Laden before we had a chance to clone him, so we could kill him ever year at the Superbowl"

"is The Donald going to ask for Bin Laden's death certificate?"

"9.11.01 life changed forever. thanks be to those who fight for our country and killed the sack of poo for us."

"I'm just glad it wasn't the "there's an asteroid we can't stop" speech."

But seriously...

Thank you to ALL troops fighting for the freedoms of ALL people. We honor you.

God Bless America

Royal Weddingness...

2011-05-01T15:47:00.012-04:00

I am in love with these two.
I hope their lives live out like the wedding...fairy tale.

She was divinely gorgeous and you could see William's love for her.

God the dress is just perfect.

Awwwww.....

And I'm going to be a bit corny...I want a ring replica!!!

Ok, I may or may not have just gotten myself one from overstock.com
Shut up!

I've always been fascinated by all things British and respect their traditions no matter how much pomp and circumstance there is. LOVE it!
I would have moved to England instead of Houston if I could have. Talk about a big move!
Aren't you glad I'm only in Houston now mom?

I am not responsible for the image below...
I may or may not have burst out laughing at the bottom one.

Seriously...too distracting. They obviously wanted the attention on themselves. Disrespectful.

Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows Part 2!...

2011-04-27T21:43:00.002-04:00

It looks SO EPIC!!!!

I think I really may still go to a midnight showing! Can't help myself!!!

To watch more, visit tag

Differences...

2011-04-27T21:43:00.000-04:00

Differences between Texas and Indiana
Part 1 anyway...

There are Taco Bells but there are more Taco Cabanas...and they are better!

And the sign on the one I passed today said "Brisket Tacos are BACK!"...I'm going back. Must. Have. Brisket. Tacos!

"Everything's bigger in Texas"
Well...kinda
Not gas prices thankfully
But the cockroaches...ugh...have proven themselves to me to indeed be bigger.
I was going to post a picture but I get creepy crawly just thinking about it so I'll spare you.
On day 4 there was one. In. my. bathroom!
BLEEEEEHHHHH!!!!
I called management and basically asked if someone could be sent to deal with it. I had no idea what to do!!! It was so big I didn't want to squash it and leave a puddle and a mark on the wall and I was freaked. out.
They didn't send anyone. I managed to vacuum it up after coaxing it to the floor with a long handled broom. But it was still alive!!! I saw it crawling around in my canister! I'm not about to leave it to crawl out again somewhere in my apartment!!! I found my guts and took the vacuum out on my patio and pulled out the canister and flung that bug into the grass. And was jumpy for days.
The management sprayed my apartment 2 days later. So far no mas cucarachas.

More bugs...
I already have mosquito bites!!! And there's a drought here!!! What's it like when there's normal precip!?
I've heard these are bigger too but so far I've seen the same size in Indiana. Of course my parents' house in off a pond and my grandparents' house was near a creek...maybe I'm already used to "bigger" ones.

The people...

The people are so nice and polite! Seriously!! People...strangers strike up conversations everywhere!!! And they're sincere! I KNOW!!!
I'm not used to this. I'm definitely suspicious of these nice people. And then that makes me feel guilty. How bad is it that I'm not used to nice people!?
But...they drive worse. A lot worse. And the traffic...a LOT worse. I'll never complain about Indianapolis traffic again!

And it was 76 degrees today and 95% humidity when I left my house at 6:15 this morning.

My Houston Apartment...

2011-04-24T14:06:00.000-04:00

*Cue dramatic music*...

Prepare for mass hysteria...
Although I will say things look a lot different already. I'll take 'after' photos when I deem fit. :)

My bathroom

I got a super cute shower curtain at Target yesterday and I don't even need to change the color of my towels!

My bedroom

My closet...today it is complete and organized.

The den...or the 'holding' area for all stuff without a place yet.

My kitchen as viewed from the living room

It actually does have a lot of cabinets for an apartment

The laundry room

I'm doing 7 loads of laundry today

The living room

I think I finally landed on a layout, not too dissimilar from this...

but without boxes everywhere ;)

Nyx was not too sure about all this

Zeus had no problem relaxing into his new home

The move was not without casualty. This is the side of my 'entertainment center'.

I think the loaders put it up on it's side and didn't put a blanket or anything under it and it scraped the floor of the truck. Yeah, it's only a $99 IKEA piece. But I put extra time into customizing it and love it. Or did. *sigh*

This is one of the lizards that frequents my patio. I originally named him Neeko. Except now I think it might be a female because this morning I saw a bigger green lizard putting the moves on her. So I have named the green one Neeko and this one is now Pippin!

I'll post more pics when the apartment is all put together more and pictures are hung. I also want to take my camera into work so you can see my office!

The weather has been SO nice! Hot...yes. Actually hotter than usual for right now for them. And dryer. I guess this is the worst drought in about 50 years for this area. And there are wildfires because of it.
But the A/C hasn't stopped running since I've been here. It's breezy and not super humid. Highs in the mid to upper 80s.
Today it's 1pm and 85 degrees, 51% humidity, kind of windy. High tomorrow of 89 and Tuesday of 91. Both days with small chance of isolated T-storms. I hope we get them!

I've packed away my ankle boots and my two pairs of fur-lined boots and brought out all sandals. Perhaps I need more summer shoes. And capris. And short sleeves. And...ok I'll try not to go nuts!

My first days...

2011-04-20T20:17:00.000-04:00

Well this is the fifth day I've been a resident of Houston, Texas.

The trip down was...long. I don't know if it was the fact that I was so stressed and worried or what but I slept like crap the first night (before leaving Indy) so that when we left breakfast soon I was fighting to open my eyes after every blink! So I had my first experience with 5 Hour Energy. Well...and a nap. I napped for a bit while my mom drove then sucked down the 5HE. I think it works, and I wasn't jittery or anything.
We stayed at Comfort Suites all the way down. Indy, Little Rock (yes I was there the night the tornadoes ripped through...2am tornado sirens and sideways rain is scary), and Houston.
You know what? Comfort Suites beds are REALLY comfortable!!
We had to stay in ones that allowed pets as my kitties were traveling with me.

This was the best thing I purchased for the trip!
Pet House

It fit both of the cats comfortably, they were able to fully stand up and stretch, the side and back flaps rolled down in case the sun was blazing in and it folds up into that nifty carrying case!
And it's on clearance now at BBB so if you are interested I highly recommend getting one.

They traveled better than I thought they would. Nyx was freaked out the first night in the hotel and spent the ENTIRE time under the covers of my bed. But the next night she was exploring the room and Zeus takes everything in stride he was fine the whole time.
And in the car they seemed content with actually sleeping and didn't make too much noise and were great! During lunch stops I'd put a water bowl inside their tent, then come back out midway through and put a small litterbox in it. It only got used once and not very much. They probably would have been fine without it.
If you ever have to travel with cats I also highly recommend the disposable litter boxes. Super convenient. I also had with me trash bags and we bagged our own boxes for the hotel cleaning people.

Anyway...my mom and I were nearly killed about 15 minutes into crossing into the Houston city limits. No I'm not kidding. Someone went through a red light and I was starting to go. Good thing my brakes work. It was REAL close. Nice way to welcome me to the city!!!

The night we arrived I got my apartment keys and checked it out. I started crying after leaving there for the hotel (truck wasn't being unloaded til morning). I don't know why. Well, there were many other times I almost cried but fought it. I REALLY cried when I said good-bye to my house.

First night here we at BBQ...what else?
Then next day after the unloaders were done we ate at Ruby Tequila's. O.M.G. It was SO good!
Then that night we just ate at Dairy Queen. I had to take my parents to the airport and it was one of the only things close and our lunch was so late we didn't want much.

Originally they were going to stay until Tuesday morning. But while the loaders were filling up the truck in Fishers my mom got a call...my uncle passed away. It made an emotional time even more emotional. But I wanted them to go to the funeral if they could so they left Sunday morning.

I had all day Sunday, Monday and Tuesday to get unpacked. I'm still surrounded my boxes. I just decided that I would stop anytime I got stressed or frustrated and go as slow as I need to. I'm ok with takeout until I find my pots and pans!

Today was my first day at work. It went very well. I think I'll really like it. I didn't really doubt that I would but it's nice to feel good after a first day. Saw some familiar faces and one in particular that has become a friend was extra reassuring.

I'll tell you more about my apartment, Houston, traffic, work...everything as I go along. But for now, I'm tired. Nervous energy is tiring...and I need to go get dinner.

I'm super excited...I found a mexican place really close that serves stuffed avocados!!! I'll report!

Love yas! And thank you for your support. :)

I am officially...

2011-04-18T17:59:00.002-04:00

A Hoosier in Houston

'Scuse me for a minute whilst I move to Texas...

2011-04-12T20:37:00.001-04:00

Be back blogging soon!!!

New Philosophy!...

2011-04-04T22:16:00.002-04:00

It be my Blogoversary!!!

2011-03-29T18:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Blogoversary to ME!!!

4 years :)

Go DAWGS!!!

2011-03-26T20:14:00.002-04:00

What I'll miss...

2011-03-26T20:05:00.002-04:00

What I'll miss about living where I live until April 14th...

I live (for now) in Fishers (northeast side Indy) and I just love where I live. I'm away from everything enough that I don't feel 'city'. But close and convenient to so many things. Everyone has their favorite spots where they live and why they like to be there...here are some of mine...

Hamilton Town Center

Close shopping
Close dining
Close theater!

I can leave my house after the movie has started, get concessions and still not miss the movie. Literally 2 1/2 minutes away.
My favorite places there besides the theater...Mo's Irish Pub, Five Guys, Olive Garden, Bed Bath & Beyond, Qdoba, Massage Envy, DSW, Ulta, JCPenney, Red Robin, Payless Shoes...*sigh*

The grocery store is also so close and convenient...when the road isn't closed for bridge repairs...so close that if I'm missing an ingredient or two or just completely change my mind on dinner...I just go. Not everyone does because going to the store is an event. For me it's practically next door.
The gas station too. The liquor store too. The frozen custard store too. And Chinese take-out.

So is my Mexican takeout. El Camino Real!
They make good margaritas, enough alcohol. Their queso is great! A little spicy!
My favorite thing...my usual...is Camarones a la Diabla no rice extra beans. I love refried beans. And whenever I call to place my order they say "ah it's you!". And when I get there they know which order is mine they never have to ask.
Their Especial la Casa is really good too...it's essentially a big enchilada swimming in their queso...of course it's good. Duh.

Yats...
Must I describe again the joy their food brings me?

Trader Joe's
Apparently they do not exist in Houston...sadness

Skyline Chili
A midwest thing. (except Florida...weird). bummer.

They don't even sell it in the grocery stores in Texas. crying.

Indy Blue Fridays

Scotty's Brewhouse
I 'date' Lucy here. It's our usual spot.

Buffalo Wild Wings with friends
Yes there are B-Dubs near me...very near in fact. But it won't be the same without Brian, his friends and a Purdue game on the big screens.

The Fresh Market
I feel like I'm in a European marketplace when I shop here. Their meat and seafood department in amazing.

But most of all...

My girls. I have no words for how my heart hurts that they will not just be down the road. I love you guys.
And now I'm crying so I have to stop. :)

"Indy will always be here" words Facebooked to me by Ly Tartell...these words echo in my brain every time I get overly upset. I can always come back. And really, that's my plan. In a few years. I still feel very much a Hoosier, not a Texan. I know I know...I really could change my mind once I'm there. I know. I might. But for now...I have the heart of a Hoosier and will miss...everything. And everyone.

Laser pointer cat bowling...

2011-03-20T19:02:00.001-04:00

LMAO!!!

Happy Tears...

2011-03-13T12:47:00.000-04:00

It's hard to watch video and see photos coming out of Japan. I just can't imagine going through something like that. And all the clean up they'll be doing for months, if not years.
It's something like this that makes me wish I could drop everything for several months and just go and help.
But all I can do is send prayers and positive energy and thoughts to all those affected. Effected? I could never get those words sorted out.

So in the midst of the sad and in the midst of crappy reality TV where everyone's just out to get the other, prove how crazy they are or prove how dumb they are...it's nice to have some good, positive, happy television.

You simply must check these shows out...both are tear-jerking. Happy tears!!

Secret Millionaire...on ABC

It's a wake-up call but also someone doing something good for these people. They give money to the people they meet and they should...they've got more than enough to go around. It's nice to see people doing what should be done!

This is a good one...you HAVE to watch this...
'Coming Home' on Lifetime

I'm crying just at the preview! You should have seen all the tears while watching last week's premiere episode!

Seriously good TV people.

Any other feel-good must watch TV?

Crossed over...

2011-03-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

Charlie Sheen has crossed over into the Mel Gibson realm.

What's that mean?

They're nuts.

And this...this is hilarious!...

Jimmy Fallon does Sheener.

Fat Tuesday...

2011-03-08T19:45:00.001-05:00

I had a very unintentional Fat Tuesdayish Fat Tuesday!

My co-worker brought me a Paczki...and an extra one that I simply must eat for dessert tonight.

And then I decided I must have Yats for dinner...before I even realized it was indeed Fat Tuesday. I love Yats. I will really. really. miss Yats.

So, I can only hope that I will send minions there in my absence.

(not my picture)

My favorite thing there is the Chili Cheese Etouffee with Crawfish...
Little chunks of crawfish swimming in a thick, creamy, cheesy etouffee...tangy and spicy and....*foodgasm*

Foodgasm: when your food is so good you...a) close your eyes b) eyes roll back in your head c) must take a deep breath d) smack the table because you just don't know what else to do e) any combination or all of the above

But my favorite is the Red Beans and Smoked Sausage...perfectly N'awlins-ish. Spicy but not too spicy. Thick and rich. *drool*

Oh and my favorite...the Creme de Tomate...chicken, shrimp, sausage...spicy and...just...good.

But now for my favorite. No for real.
The bread. If you learn anything from me...ever...in life...
Get. Extra. Bread.
Garlicky spiced buttery goodness.
I'm going to try to get them to spill the beans on the secret before I go to Texas.
I knew I should get it when I saw on the chalkboard menu (ooh I need to explain that) "extra bread $.50"...whenever you see something like that...DO IT.

GOD THE BREEEEAAAAADDDD!

Ok. I'm ok.

The chalkboard menu...see...they write the daily menu on a chalkboard inside because it changes all the time. And if they run out...and it happens...they erase it. "Erased from existence!" (name that movie!)

Oh...and um...they have peanut butter pie. Yep.

Here's their Facebook page...http://www.facebook.com/yatscajuncreole
You should 'like' them if you know what's good for ya.

They have many, many menu items...here's what's on today's menu for Mass Ave...
(I go to 96th St but it's not posted...they try but don't always get around to it)
Ch Ch Etouffee - don't ask what that is, I just talked about it, don't make me hurt you
White Chili w/ Chicken
Gumbo
Red Beans w/ Sausage
Chicken Creole
Jambalaya
Succotash
Spinach & Mushroom Etouffee (my favorite)
B&B Black Beans & Carmelized Corn

Don't be afraid of the funny looking, long haired, pierced people behind the counter...they're really warm & fuzzy & gooey. Ask them what something is...ask them for samples...they're awesome.

OH! And my favorite!!! They carry Orangina in their fridge o' drinks!

which incidentally makes a great Tequila chaser...don't ask...just store the information :)

if you visit Yats on 96th, tell 'em Stacy sent ya! (if they look at you funny...say the girl in the green jacket)

Oh...the best part of today...as I'm waiting for my food at Yats a little girl comes over to me maybe about 5 years old. She's holding Mardi Gras beads in both hands and she says to me "which color do you like best?". I tell her that I like the purple. Then she handed the purple beads to me and said "here you go!". How cute is that?!!? Made my day. I'm still wearing them.

Good life lessons from movies...

2011-03-07T21:00:00.000-05:00

And see how much we can learn from Star Wars...

MIA...

2011-03-05T18:34:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA.

As you know, I've had a lot going on. Decisions to make. Big life-changing decisions.

I'm going.

I'm not sure when yet. It's just been decided.
Within a couple months, I will be a resident of Houston. With a design job. With a good salary. On my own. And probably huddling in a corner sobbing "why did I do this?!"

No. Well maybe. :)

I'll share more details with you as I have them.

And I'll get back to blogging more regularly.

Stay tuned for the adventures of
A Hoosier in Houston

Fascinating...

2011-02-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

You ever hear a word over and over so much it starts to sound weird?

Hence...(and it's funny too)...

Happy Valentine's Day!...barf...

2011-02-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

A Hoosier in Houston?...

2011-02-13T13:32:00.001-05:00

Maybe.

I've been offered a job in Houston. Officially. And for a damn good salary.

I want to accept...most of the time...no, I have made the deal with myself that if I can find a renter for my house then I will accept. I can't take it and not have a plan for the house I own here in Indy. The market is terrible for selling and my ideal plan really is to come back eventually. 2-3 years. I love the house, it would be great if I could just come right back to it.

I'm not gonna lie though. I keep having moments of panic, breakdown and whining. And I can flip-flop in seconds. One moment "I'm going to go and it's going to be great! How exciting!" and mere seconds later..."I don't wanna gooooo!" (whine whine)

I'm getting myself completely stressed out about it. I'm not kidding I think I lost 5 pounds last week and I ate like crap. To some the thought of moving to another city and in a way 'starting over' is exciting...and I'll admit, I've even had the same thoughts. But it's a real possibility now. Real.
A lot of the time I'm torn.

What's holding me here? Well. Nothing really. I'm single. No kids. But I do love Indianapolis. My house is here and I love it. I have the best girlfriends in the entire universe and they are all here. Some of them have even gone away but we all ended up back around here. My family...ok...my mom is here...well, 150 miles away. And sometimes that feels too far. I'm really close to my mom. She's the hardest person to leave.
Now as one my besties put it "there is email and Facebook and cell phones...and there are these things called cars airplanes". And another said "Indy will always be here". And my mom finally said "I'm ok with it".
But it's still hard. Real hard.

So here's the deal. I will take the job. I will if I can find someone to rent the house. So I'm making a flyer. And I will go. Financially I would be the biggest moron on earth if I didn't do this. "You're just treading water and that's no way to live life"...again by a very knowledgeable BFF. But she's wrong...well partially wrong. That is no way to live life...but I feel like I'm not even treading water anymore. I feel like I'm just under the surface, slowly drowning. And here is this lifeline I've been thrown. I just need to grab on. I have a hold of it with just one hand for now. While I do want to grab hold with both hands and go with it, it would be irresponsible of me to go without a plan for this house that I'm sitting in right at this moment.

So...

3 Bedroom House in Fishers for Rent
$950/mo.
Awesome location (near Hamilton Towne Center)

Let me know if you or someone you know is interested. (Look at that place...isn't it fantastic?)

I'm thinking of looking for a furnished place in Houston so it MIGHT come furnished or partially furnished if you like. Or I'll throw it all in storage. Or I'll take it with me. There are obviously still some things up in the air.

They are waiting for me to give them a firm answer in Houston, the clock is ticking, they can't wait forever. I just hope this opportunity doesn't pass me by. As much as I freak out about it, I really want it to happen. At least for a couple years. Get me back on my feet. With solid footing.

And hey...maybe I'll find myself a nice, polite cowboy to bring back with me. ;)

Etsy finds...

2011-02-13T12:31:00.000-05:00

This. I love this.

I want to wear this in my hair!
You can buy this for me here. Only $10.10 can you believe it?
Or look at their whole shop here.

How cute are these?!

Find them here. Only $10!
They also have these...

Loverly. $10. Get 'em here.

And the rest of the shop here.

Oh wait and I love these of theirs too.

And again, only $10. Here.

*gasp*
I love love love this too!

How freaking adorable is it?! $26.50
Get it for me here. ;)

There's also this one very similar...

$17 here

Oooh and I love this from the same shop

Get it here $17

And here's another cutie. So sweet and innocent.

$23.50 Get it here

Oh wow...I really love this!

Get it here for $25

One of my all time favorites...still available

$44 Get it here

Best Super Bowl Commercial...

2011-02-07T18:48:00.001-05:00

And who is the boy behind the mask?...well...

Does he not look like a miniature Luke Skywalker?! So cute.

Burt's Bees Grab Bag...

2011-02-01T17:30:00.000-05:00

Burt's Bees has their $50 value grab bags for sale on their website again for $25!!!
As they imply I think it would be a great gift!!!
*ahem*

Get yours or one for someone special here:

http://www.burtsbees.com/natural-products/all-products/grab-bag.html?link=shopnow

I love my Burt's Bees!

Just because I needed a laugh...

2011-01-30T18:30:00.002-05:00

Indy vs Houston...

2011-01-30T00:00:00.000-05:00

You know that phrase people often quote to you when you're having a rough time??...

"When one door closes another one opens"

Well, here I've been...asking for that other door to open...anytime now. Almost desperate for that other damn door.

Careful what you wish for...

I've been offered a job in Houston, Texas.

It's a great opportunity. I've worked with the company before, they were former clients of mine at my previous design job. They're wonderful people, great projects, I always liked working with them. And while it's 32 degrees here as I write this...it's 66 degrees there. And Monday...the high here is 28. The high in Houston...73.

But...I love it here in Indiana. I was born and raised in Northern Indiana and thought my biggest move away would be to where I am now...near Indianapolis. All my friends are here. And they are truly wonderful friends. My family. My mom. And...my house.

At first I thought..."no, no way. thanks but no thanks. I could never leave here"

But then I found myself really thinking about it. Actually imagining myself there. I know I'd be happy at the job. And at this point in my life with all that I have and am going through, there have been many times I thought "wouldn't it be great just to pick up and go and start new somewhere?!"

But those were fleeting thoughts. You know, in the moment. A lot of people have thoughts like that.

But here I really have a chance to do it.

A good and wise friend said to me "there is email, Facebook and phones. There are also these things called cars and airplanes. It's not like we'd fall out of your life"

I got to thinking that if I could somehow keep my house and take the job for a year that would be perfect. I'd still have my house (that I just love) to come back to in case I hated it in Texas. Which made me realize...it's really only the house keeping me here. Well not keeping me here. Keeping me from going. I can always come back no matter what. So now I need to decide if my house is worth it.

I mean, I can hardly afford it right now anyway. Scratch that. I can't afford it right now. I've been trying so hard to keep it because I'm in love with it and the location but is it worth passing up this opportunity?

But it's not exactly a move across town. 1,017 miles actually. It's a big decision. And it's using every single brain cell I have. I'm consumed by it. I haven't slept well all week and my dreams are real weird!

I'm getting more info about the job which will help me make the decision.

But even if I did want to take it...I own a house and the market sucks. That could be a real roadblock.

*sigh* I'm just not sure yet what I want to do. But I'll keep you posted.

Can't believe it's been 25 years...

2011-01-28T18:46:00.001-05:00

Crew of Challenger - 1986
(front row) Michael J. Smith, Dick Scobee, Ronald McNair; (back row) Ellison Onizuka, Christa McAuliffe, Gregory Jarvis, Judith Resnik

We will never forget them, nor the last time we saw them, this morning, as they prepared for their journey and waved goodbye and slipped the surly bonds of
Earth to touch the face of God.
-Ronald Reagan

Pretty cool NYC video...

2011-01-23T09:00:00.001-05:00

NYC - Mindrelic Timelapse from Mindrelic on Vimeo.

Music is cool too

WANT!...

2011-01-22T14:05:00.000-05:00

A soda maker!

Bed Bath & Beyond has them...$99.99
And use one of their infamous coupons...you know they never expire right? Even though there's an expiration date on them? THEY DO NOT EXPIRE! So keep them all!

Anyway...one of my favorite things is La Croix flavored sparkling water. It has no artificial sweeteners in it.

I like the Berry, Cran-Raspberry, and Grapefruit best.

Problem is...it's about $5 per 12 pack. Dude. It's water. Ok it's fizzy and flavored but...seriously.

And I'm broke. So plain water it is. (I haven't even bought Diet Coke in weeks!! I've only drank 2 in the past 8 days!)

Funny thing is...I don't miss the DC that much. But I do miss the sparkling water...it takes care of my fizz fix and it tastes better than plain water. It's healthier than DC.

So...For $80 (don't forget your coupon kids!) I could get this nifty machine that would make sparkling water for me! There's all kinds of flavorings you can get. Cola, Orange, Root Beer, Energy Drink, Water flavors...

It's an "investment" up front but then I'd only be buying flavor kits for $5 that create 50 8-oz servings. Um, duh. I'm hoping it will end up wrapped up as a gift to me ;)

Anyone out there have one of these? I'd love to hear what you think of it!

so true...

2011-01-18T19:08:00.001-05:00

Golden Globes...

2011-01-16T22:59:00.000-05:00

Not everyone's a fan of Ricky Gervais...but I am! I love that he basically roasts everyone at the Golden Globe awards. I mean...come on...he's just saying the things no one else has the guts to. :)

Not sure I'm a big fan of the 'I just got out of a wind tunnel' hair style.

Chris Colfer was adorable when he won...he just couldn't believe it!

YAY Jim Parsons!!!

I love Big Bang Theory!! BAZINGA!!

Ew Megan Fox is icky.
Just my opinion.
Did you see her introduce the movie? Weird.

I love the movie RED...which comes out on DVD next week...
I knew it wouldn't win against the others but still happy to see it nominated!

Not a fan of this dress...

Fan of the body...can mine look like that please? Back to the dress...I think I'd redo the shoulders and maybe not make it long sleeved. Then I think I'd like it.

Anyone else bored with Brangelina?

The Social Network huh?
maybe I should see it. LOL!

I am this person...

2011-01-16T13:46:00.001-05:00

Do you know anyone who has had a really rough time lately? Do you know anyone who is going through hardship but refuses to let it beat them and refuses to adopt a negative attitude?

I am this person.

This one's wordy...consider yourself warned.
I haven't talked a lot about it, especially here, because it's hard to admit, occasionally hard to face, and frankly a little embarrassing. I also know that I don't have it as hard as some. There are people out there going through much worse than I and I don't want to seem like "poor me". I try not to focus on it too much but sometimes...sometimes it's really difficult. Sometimes I just have to get it off my chest. Tomorrow I may wish I didn't write this. But I've been meaning to do it for a while.

In Spring of 2009 I was laid off from a job that I really loved. I loved what I did, I loved where I worked, I loved the people I worked with...coworkers and clients. Even though I knew the company was facing hard times (we had already taken pay cuts) I really never thought I would get laid off. I didn't think it would happen to me. Even up to the point of being called into the VP's office with 2 other people...I thought it was maybe about a new project or changing teams or something. So it was a huge blow. I was crushed.

I didn't realize how much of an optimist I was until this happened. All the time I thought...
"I'll get something else soon"
"A new job is just around the corner"
"Something good is coming"
"Any time now...a new, maybe even better job is coming"

Months later, I took a part time job at a wine shop/cafe. But still had to collect unemployment to make ends meet.

Later that month my husband moved out.

A couple months later he told me he wanted a divorce.
I got my divorce papers on Christmas Eve.
I have to figure out how to pay for the house and all the utilities by myself.

Months later my unemployment benefits decreased drastically. I needed something else bad...and fast. I took another part time position as a bank teller. I hoped that maybe that would turn into full time.
But I continued to job hunt like that was my job. I lost count of how many resumes I sent out and how many applications I submitted. Don't let anyone tell you it's easy to find a job. Don't. It's not.

Then I got an email from a contract design company. I had been recommended to them by some clients I had worked with while at my former design job. They needed more contract designers, all I needed to do was to get AutoCAD and they would supply me with the other program I needed to specify systems furniture. And they paid well. I quit the wine shop job so I would have time for them. Then a full time position came up at the bank. Things were looking up! I took the full time position at a different branch location and I really like it there.

I fell behind in mortgage payments and paid many other bills late. My ex filed for bankruptcy and I couldn't qualify for HUD mortgage assistance with his name still on the mortgage. I filed for a loan modification which increased my interest rate and therefore my mortgage payments...until his name finally comes off. I'm still in the process of dealing with that, it takes months and more fees I can't afford. I can't just sell the house, I'd have to pay to do it since the housing market crashed. My parents have to help me make ends meet.
I thought things were looking up!?

I also have quite a bit of credit card debt. This is my fault. I am taking responsibility for it. If I knew then what I know now...I would have been quite different. If you or anyone else needs credit card help go to http://www.nfcc.org/ and don't be afraid to talk someone about consolidating. I now have a 2% interest rate on all my cards (which are cancelled) and my payment to the company is about the same as all my minimum payments were. But...I'll have it all paid off in 5 years. Not having an emergency backup is nerve-wracking but I had to do something.

So here I am. I've gotten rid of everything I don't need. Ok fine, I still have TV...that's for sanity! But no HD. My cell phone is now under my parents' family plan...why didn't I think of that earlier!? My heat is turned down to 67 degrees and I'm contemplating going lower. I can't afford my mortgage payments and bills still. I can't even afford my Diet Coke!

This weekend is dedicated to printing off more resumes and cover letters to not only the design industry but anything that may have higher pay. I wouldn't mind taking on a part time job but even those are hard to come by, especially if they have to work around a full time job you already have. There is still a little hope to work with the contract design company, but not sure at the moment. I'm going to pull some money from my 401k to pay for a new set of tires, my HOA dues and help catch up on bills.

The tears come more easily and more often lately. Not for self pity...at least I don't think so. I just worry every second of every day about what to do.
It may come down to short-selling the house. I really want to stay in it. I love it. I've made it my home.

*sigh* Still...hope prevails in my heart. I have to believe everything will work out. How have I not lost that? I don't know but I'm glad. I'd rather have rose-colored glasses than grey.

What's that phrase? "Hope springs eternal"
I guess it really does.

Please don't pity me. Empathy I'll accept but not pity.
Just don't jump to conclusions about people that are jobless or in debt or divorced. Everyone has a story.

Now my friends...now you know. You know what I've been going through for the past year and a half. You know my story...or some of it.
I'll keep you posted but I won't dwell.

AND if you know of any design job openings in Indy let me know!!! Or full time administrative assistant, executive assistant, event coordinator, office coordinator, CAD technician and the like. :)

Thank you for your support!

Hey I need a new cookie jar...

2011-01-14T19:01:00.000-05:00

Get your own Death Star cookie jar here...only $49.99

Hey Football Fans & Band Geeks...

2011-01-08T17:59:00.002-05:00

This is pretty cool!

I love whimsy...

2011-01-08T12:50:00.000-05:00

Fortune Cookie Coin Purse - $45

And they're handmade!

Dramatic Cat...the sequel...

2011-01-08T12:27:00.000-05:00

sorry...

2011-01-07T18:30:00.002-05:00

or Out Sick for a WEEK

I'll get back to the regularly scheduled programming as soon as I feel good again!

2011...

2010-12-31T10:22:00.002-05:00

We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day.... Happy New Year!

New Movie Trailers...

2010-12-26T14:24:00.000-05:00

PAUL - From a couple of my favorite Brits...
can't wait to see this one...

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES

I AM NUMBER FOUR...

Commercial I love...

2010-12-23T20:34:00.002-05:00

Kevin Bacon is awesome.

Another Christmas Melody...

2010-12-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

from Straight No Chaser...

12 Days of Christmas...Like you've never heard before...

2010-12-20T18:13:00.000-05:00

Love them!

I. Want. This. Phone.

2010-12-20T13:00:00.000-05:00

I WANT THIS PHONE!!!!!!!!!!!

ZOMG! I want this phone! Yay Verizon!!!

http://www.verizonwireless.com/b2c/store/controller?item=phoneFirst&action=viewPhoneDetail&selectedPhoneId=5534&deviceCategoryId=1&cid=BAC-FB-GECMP

I just don't have the $200 (after rebate even!) to get it. :( Boo Verizon!

Favorites for Christmas...

2010-12-19T20:18:00.000-05:00

I've always loved Snoopy & Woodstock. I even had a Snoopy Christmas stocking when I was a kid. Ok ok...it's hung on my mantle right this very minute. :)

Am I just being all sappy & nostalgic or what?

2010-12-09T19:10:00.000-05:00

Maybe it's the the year is coming to an end but...
I've had this song running through my head for days...

LOVE LOVE LOVE RENT!

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-12-09T18:01:00.000-05:00

Today's theme...awesome things...aka...things that made me say out loud "awesome"...

Harry Potter Clue!!!
$34.99
I've always loved Clue and I love HP...a match made in Hogwarts!
I wonder if someone would actually play it with me.

Another match made for me...
I love candy...I love caffeine...yep...
Caffeinated Candy!!!
$7.99 (for 5)

I love games!
Star Trek Monopoly - don't judge me - I want it!
on sale for $29.99

EPIC Score Action & Adventure - Volume 1
I just found this on Amazon...for real I just found it and am impressed...click the link and give it a listen
I must have it! I know...it's another weird thing I like.
$8.99 for mp3 album

uh oh...volume 1...that means...there are more...
I'm in trouble!!! I just listened to all of them...I gotta have 'em all!

Star Trek Encyclopedia
$23.10 paperback
$8-$20 hardback in used but very good condition (click here for listings)
yes, I'm gettin' my geek on again. But I just gotta have it!

The Star Trek doesn't stop there...
Still want these shirts...

The dreaded 'red shirt'...$25.50

Trekkies...you get it. :)

And this one is just cute...
Beam me up Scotty!!!...$19.09

Ok...for the last thing I'll refrain from geekdom...

Big Ass Book of Crafts!
$13.57

I love my crafty crafts!

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-12-06T19:13:00.000-05:00

Relaxation...

My favorite spa ever...Woodhouse Day Spa...

I recommend the purifying facial

You can buy gift cards for any dollar amount, packages, or design your own experience!

Skin Care by Arcona...
They used it on me in the facial at Woodhouse and I'm in love!

My favorites so far...
Tea Tree Mask...if you have problem skin it is a miracle worker!!!

Raspberry Resurfacing Peel...you can feel it eating away at impurities...and it smells SO good!

Also available through Amazon: ARCONA Raspberry Resurfacing Peel, Repair AM/PM 2 oz (59 g)
ARCONA Tea Tree Mask, Purify AM/PM 2 oz (59 g)

Aromatherapy...
Some of my favorite Yankee Candles

White Christmas
This scent makes me think of Christmas when I was a kid...and I can't even pinpoint why. A little pine a little sweet...perfect

Midnight Jasmine
So lovely and sweet...makes me think of California where it was growing in absolute walls of bunches

Lavender
THE scent for relaxation

Buttercream
only problem...makes me hungry for cake.

Me too...

2010-11-27T18:46:00.001-05:00

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-11-25T11:50:00.000-05:00

Today's theme...feel good movies...

Eat Pray Love
$16.99

The Blind Side
$3.99

Under the Tuscan Sun
$11.49

elf
$9.49

UP
$12.99

The Holiday
Only $3.99

Valentine's Day
$10.49

Rudy - can't forget the guys
$9.99

any other suggestions or favorites that I didn't list?

Amazon does it...

2010-11-25T11:36:00.000-05:00

I knew they'd get this going...

You can now give a Kindle book as a gift!! You may all now go to my Amazon Wish List and buy me my Kindle books now. kthxbai

Love it...

2010-11-24T18:28:00.000-05:00

via: http://www.etsy.com/listing/58060867/2011-poster-calendar

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-11-17T19:19:00.000-05:00

I heart philosophy!

I want all their stuff!!!

Here are the ones at the top of the list...

falling in love fragrance - $15
I have this...I love it

candy cane bubble bath & shower gel - $16
I love the way the minty smells wake you up!

holiday gift set - $27
hello?! $27!!! For all of that!

makeup optional skin care trial set - $40
I just gotta try this some day

purifying enzyme peel - $40
this was featured in O magazine this month as a favorite thing!!!

lip gloss set - $16.50
we girls like choices :)

Holy Halloween Display!!!...

2010-11-13T21:54:00.001-05:00

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-11-11T16:15:00.000-05:00

Stocking Stuffers...

Candy Candle Tins - $5.95

Star Wars Flash Drives - $39.95

Guitar String Bracelet - $9.95

Nom nom nom lunchsack - $12.95

LOL magnetz - $19.99

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-11-07T10:51:00.000-05:00

For the crazed Harry Potter fan...like me...

So Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 comes out in 11 days!!! I've got my IMAX tickets already.

If you know a Harry Potter freak...they would love any of the following

Every wizard needs a wand...
Replica Harry Potter wand - $34.95

You can also get Hermione's, Dumbledore's, Snape's...many others

"I solemnly swear I am up to no good"
The Marauder's Map - $34.95

"Mischief Managed"

Deathly Hallows Necklace - $19.95

Harry Potter 2011 Box Calendar - $11.19

Deathly Hallows Part 1 Soundtrack - $11.88

You can preview the music here: http://www.deathlyhallowssoundtrack.com/
Sounds awesome!

Harry Potter Cookbook so you can make butterbeer, pumpkin pasties, pumpkin juice, cauldron cakes...

Or you can really go crazy and go to
THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER in Orlando, FL!!!

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-11-02T18:22:00.000-04:00

HEY YOU GUYS!!!!

Goonies never say die!

Do the truffle shuffle!

Slick shoes! Are you crazy?!

Jerk alert!

You know, I am wondering...what is in the bag?

Stupid guys tell me to use the stairs when Data's falling!

Goonies. Blu-ray. 25th Anniversary Edition. You want it. And I want it too!

Happy Halloween!...

2010-10-31T12:23:00.001-04:00

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-10-28T20:54:00.000-04:00

For the cooking divas...or gents...

These are a few of my favorite things...
sorry...the Sound of Music reunion was on Oprah today so there's a constant musical running through my head

PS - if you can't see my Amazon links below, you'll have to read directly from my blog and not your feed.

The Pioneer Woman's Cookbook - $15.50
If you don't read her blog, you should.

Rachael Ray's new cookbook - $13.49
comes out Nov 2

Hungry Girl's Cookbook - $7...SEVEN DOLLARS?!?!

Love Julie & Julia!

Martha Stewart's mag subscription...

or just her best cookie recipes...

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-10-27T10:55:00.000-04:00

These made me drool...

FOOD!

Carmel Marshmallows

Dipping & Drizzling Oils

Balsamic Creams (balsamic reductions) - gourmet pack - $38.25
seriously balsamic cream is one of my most favorite things in the world!!

Gourmet Carmel Apples - 4 pack - $39.99

Caramel Apple Bites (yes please!) - $34.99

Cheese Gift Basket - $59.99
mmmmm...cheese

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-10-26T15:47:00.000-04:00

For the movie people...

Gift cards for their local movie theater...

And don't assume that the theater by you is necessarily the same theater company near them...unless you go with them and absolutely know for sure!
If you don't know...go to Google Maps and type in their address. When that comes up there is an option to 'Search Nearby', just type in movie or movie theater and it will map the closest locations and also bring up their websites. You can buy the gift cards directly from the website.

You can buy gift Netflix subscriptions...

Movie-themed gift baskets...

I only steer away from the DVDs because unless you know for sure they don't have this movie or they specifically asked for it...you better include a gift receipt! :)

Gift Ideas of the Day...

2010-10-25T16:13:00.000-04:00

A little bling from Delight.com...

Love Delight...real cute stuff...they have more than jewelry, you should check them out but here are a few of my favorite from the bling section...

Block Ring - $16.89

Forget Me Knot Ring - $49.50

Zodiac Necklace - $34.50

I've got the guys' backs too...

This takes a special person to wear them but there's a perfect match out there...

Know a guy who loves...like loves...baseball?

REAL baseball cufflinks - $139.50

from baseballs used in an MLB game

Space Invaders Silk Tie - $42.50

they have a plethora of ties like this, look like completely innocent designs until you get up close and surprise!

It's that time again...

2010-10-23T12:25:00.001-04:00

Christmas is approaching as much as I try to slow the passing of time.

So that means it's time for my gift ideas again!!! I will TRY to do this daily. And if any of you have suggestions please let me know!!!

So my first gift idea is....*drum roll*....

The Amazon Kindle...
(you didn't see that one coming did you?)

I love love love my Kindle. I've been reading a lot more lately and it is so handy and convenient! I have over 50 books in one little, light-weight device. One handed reading is way more comfortable. AND there are actually some games you can get, some for free!
Word games and even...

And of course I like to be a little different so I have a cool skin for my Kindle. There are tons of designs to choose from...

And of course protective covers in a rainbow of colors and styles...the newest ones even have lights included...

If you or someone you love loves to read...get one. You won't regret it.

Hello!!!!....

2010-10-21T10:27:00.000-04:00

Well hello hotness...

Chris Pine

You can read the story here or just look at the pretty pretty pictures.

Order of Disarray

Don't mess with a marching band!...

Honey Badger don't care...

How to piss off every nerd on the planet...

9/11...

Really really want this...

Another good show gets cancelled...

Most awesome car window ever!!!...

New hobby...

Accessorize with your favorite movie...

Sorry I've been neglectful...

Harry Potter...A Look Back...

The Story of Snape...

bittersweet...

Full HP trailer...and some extra vids...

I'm getting giddy!!...

So You Think You Can Dance...

The Harry Potter experience continues...

I've been...

IKEA...

Happy Father's Day!...

Space geek...

What are the chances...

Wanna see where I sit all day?...

Wow.

Indy 500 Intro Video...

2011 Texas Crawfish & Music Festival...

Best Care Package EVER!...

So a deer fell through the ice...

More Animal Cuteness...

Cute birdie...

:P

It's the end of the world as we know it...

ADOPT a new friend today...

Big crowds CAN be sweethearts...

Still Disarrayed...but getting there...

New favorite YouTube channel...

Way to go USA!...

Royal Weddingness...

Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows Part 2!...

Differences...

My Houston Apartment...

My first days...

I am officially...

'Scuse me for a minute whilst I move to Texas...

New Philosophy!...

It be my Blogoversary!!!

Go DAWGS!!!

What I'll miss...

Laser pointer cat bowling...

Happy Tears...

Crossed over...

Fat Tuesday...

Good life lessons from movies...

MIA...

Fascinating...

Happy Valentine's Day!...barf...

A Hoosier in Houston?...

Etsy finds...

Best Super Bowl Commercial...

Burt's Bees Grab Bag...

Just because I needed a laugh...

Indy vs Houston...

Can't believe it's been 25 years...

Pretty cool NYC video...

WANT!...

so true...

Golden Globes...

I am this person...

Hey *I* need a new cookie jar...

Hey Football Fans & Band Geeks...

I love whimsy...

Dramatic Cat...the sequel...

sorry...

2011...

New Movie Trailers...

Commercial I love...

Another Christmas Melody...

12 Days of Christmas...Like you've never heard before...

I. Want. This. Phone.

Hey I need a new cookie jar...