Bumpin, Pushin, Grindin Along

Because I forgot About This Thing & I Want to Revive The Whole Blogging Movement...

2010-06-17T02:13:00.002-04:00

A post that is being developed in my head - quirky folks in my neighborhood & those oh so oddly mysterious/charming thangs that they do. Oh yes, it's a coming. : )

Back in Action

2010-02-17T15:19:00.002-05:00

Hello, friends! I know, I know, it has been more than a while since I last posted. However, please know that I have missed you all ever so dearly. Well, enough about me. How are you doing? What, no reply?

Because Tuesdays Can Be A Bit Sassy...

2009-09-22T21:46:00.004-04:00

Red pixy tails in hair - CHECK
Random boats in the background - CHECK
White tube socks - CHECK
Look of sassy satisfaction - DOUBLE CHECK

Ted Kennedy

2009-08-26T23:08:00.000-04:00

Ummmm... He did drunkenly kill a woman. America remembers that, right??

2009-08-06T00:44:00.000-04:00

Dollar Dog Night With Andrea & Gina!

2009-07-27T23:14:00.006-04:00

Madeline Louise!

2009-07-23T01:18:00.006-04:00

Relay For Life Corn Booth Fundraiser

2009-06-19T23:55:00.004-04:00

A Little Recent Round Up - Ala Boogie Nights Style

2009-06-18T20:34:00.005-04:00

Dirk: "No, they're Italian. I'm gonna fuckin' buy these."- No, can't drop the change for those imported threads, but this lady has her mind set on some new clothes to pump up her wardrobe. The peeps like to call it "Project Athena". The project subject likes to call it "Just Rolling With The Possible Improvements".

Rollergirl: "I don't want to leave this room."- The office with a window? A small piece of the "deluxe apartment in the sky"? Yeap, gone baby, soon gone. Well, the view was nice... While it lasted. And hell, it lasted longer than it should have!

Becky: "Five minutes. You want it clean, don't you?" - - Oh Sunita, what shenanigans are we going to create next week. But I should not knock the process till I tried it, eh?

Reed: "Evil? No man, it's not evil. It's an illusion." - Yeap, that's about the size of my life considering the recent times. Just trying to be me & be the best me that I can be. However, I think others are having these perplexing illusions of the grandest kind when they conjure up yours truly. Consulted the arm chair psychic at the local Rib Festivities this weekend & she helped to provide some decent insight. But then again, it was probably just the ten spot talkin.

Colonel James: "Well... it's just... they're so cute when they're so young like that..." - Damn, my bro's got some cute kittens. They wrestle, they pur, they pounce & they just delight.

Amber: "Too many things too many things too many things... I wanna go for a walk. Let's go for a walk." - Some have the hard core drugs or the booze, I got & always have had, the running. Oh the beautiful & perspiration inducing splendor of an easy 20 mins out & back on the open roads.

Dirk: "You still hungry? " - The diet has been more than a little crappy recently. Need to pump up on those fruits & veggies & less on those sweets & treats.

Cats & Kids & Kitties & Kiddies

2009-06-08T22:18:00.005-04:00

My furry boys, Lynn & Bob's adorable Lindsay (not at all furry), L & B's curious cat

Pictures From The Relay For Life Wing Ding!

2009-05-31T15:09:00.012-04:00

Happy Birthday, Jimaroo (AKA - Wild kitty Cat Tamer)!!

2009-05-16T14:41:00.002-04:00

Today is big brother Jim's b-day! Here's to hoping that Jimbo has a great day! As I am well aware, he is the best brother ever. Well, it is a close second with that other creepy brother of mine that mom & dad have locked up in the attic. j/k.
Love ya, big bro of mine!

Jimbo's Cute New Kittens

2009-05-04T18:26:00.010-04:00

Meet Anakin & Vader...

My Favorite TV Theme Songs Friday...

2009-04-10T10:07:00.004-04:00

I know it's randomish... Just work with me on it...

A Do Run, Run, Run, A Do Run, Run....

2009-03-26T23:07:00.003-04:00

Kate & I tackled another weekly long run tonight. We tried on 16 for size & it fit pretty fine. I think Kate is going to bitch slap it at Cleveland. The Cleveland Marathon was my first back in 2002, too.
Here are some random incidents/thoughts from our skipping through the Metro Parks this afternoon/early evening:

- People who like to walk their dogs in the parkway have more than one pooch. Is owning a mere one K9 taboo in 2009? Is it more fun to double your Fido pleasure?

- On the way back, Pearl Road kept moving farther & farther away from us. Nope, we were not just tired, the road got legs.

- A few meters of mud covering the trail can feel like an old school Slip -N-Slide.

- Your food cravings can wildly change from mile 2 to mile 15; the stomach seems to take on a personality of its own.

- After running in a covered area for a long amount of time, the naked sun can make you feel like you are in Jamaica. Ah, Jamaican me crazy with the miles!

Get Your Game Face On For The St. Pat's Party!

2009-03-24T16:10:00.002-04:00

Me & Jackie - Partying it up, fundraiser style...

It Is Hump & All... So Point to A Moose On A Wall!

2009-03-18T11:06:00.003-04:00

Jo, me & Jen - being goofy at Lil Bisco's wedding

A Little Something That makes Me Feel Just A Bit Better About Helping Students To Become Better Readers...

2009-03-17T00:37:00.002-04:00

Hey kids, don't drink the Kool-Aid: It's really washer fluid!
BY LARRY MCSHANE
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

A worker's toxic mistake sickened 10 small children at an Arkansas day care center when the kids were served windshield wiper fluid instead of Kool-Aid, authorities said Friday.
The owner of the center shut it down and surrendered her state license after the children - aged 2 to 7 - drank the potentially lethal liquid, state officials said.
Center owner Carol Bynum, who ran the facility in her home about 15 miles east of Little Rock, was devastated by the near-tragedy.
Each of the kids drank about an ounce, enough to land them in the hospital, before the mistake was discovered Thursday.
"She was so upset about what had occurred, and she was definitely worried some of the children had been injured," said Julie Munsell, spokeswoman for the state Department of Human Services.
A worker at the center in Scott, Ark., poured the drinks after grabbing the container from the center's refrigerator - where the toxic fluid had been mistakenly stored with other beverages after a shopping trip, officials said.
"This product was mistakenly grabbed and thought to be Kool-Aid and put in the refrigerator," said Laura James, a toxicologist at Arkansas Children's Hospital.
One kid remained hospitalized Friday when blood tests showed high levels of methanol, a dangerous toxin that can cause blindness, coma or even death.
The mixup came to light after the children complained the liquid tasted strange. All were tested for methanol, with nine quickly released from the hospital.
Bynum must reapply for a new state license if she hopes to reopen her business. State records indicated the day care center had no prior history of violations.

Christine's birthday is Friday!!!

2009-03-12T14:37:00.004-04:00

So, why don't you go see her in a belly dancing show....

Or

Smoke it up with her in Little Italy...

Happy birthday, girlfriend!!!!! Remember, 36 is the new 21!

A Little Hump Day Foolery

2009-03-12T00:32:00.002-04:00

"Look, that's me! I'm there!!"

Go Vikes!!!!

2009-03-10T23:26:00.008-04:00

NCAA Tournament Bound, Baby!!!
Dare I say, a repeat of '86???

Cleveland State - 57
Butler - 54

Cleveland St. returns to NCAA tournament for first time in 23 years

Associated Press
INDIANAPOLIS -- Cedric Jackson scored 19 points and Cleveland State used a flurry of 3-pointers to beat No. 16 Butler 57-54 Tuesday night, winning the Horizon League tourney championship and its first NCAA tournament berth since 1986.

Six of Cleveland State's first seven field goals in the second half were 3-pointers, helping the Vikings (25-10) erase an 8-point lead by the Bulldogs (26-5).
Butler's last lead was 48-47 midway through the period, then Jackson hit a 3-pointer and a floater in the lane to put the Vikings in front for good. Butler had two chances to tie in the closing seconds, but Shelvin Mack and Gordon Hayward missed 3-pointers.
Mack led Butler with 18 points and a career-high nine rebounds.
Cleveland State, which lost to Butler in the Horizon championship game last year and twice again to the Bulldogs this regular season, earned its first tourney title, giving it the conference's automatic spot in the NCAA tourney. Butler, ranked in the Top 25 most of the season, is expected to receive an at-large NCAA tourney bid Sunday.
The Bulldogs led most of the first half, although a late rally helped Cleveland State close within 32-28 at halftime.
Butler regained an 8-point lead at 39-31 on a dunk by Matt Howard, but a 3-pointer by J'Nathan Bullock started the Vikings' comeback.
They pulled within 42-40 on consecutive 3-pointers by Jeremy Montgomery and tied the game at 42 on a basket by Bullock. There was one more tie and one more Butler lead before the 3-pointer by Jackson put the Vikings on top for good.
Cleveland State's biggest lead was at 56-50 on the final basket by Jackson, who was voted tournament most valuable player.
Montgomery finished with 11 points and Bullock added 10 for the Vikings. Howard, the league's MVP for the season, added 14 for the Bulldogs.

Skating With My Old High School Peeps

2009-03-08T20:06:00.004-04:00

Hung out with Kate & Jill today. It was great to do some catching up. : )
The good news is that I only wiped out on the ice once. I also ran into some friends that were at the rink for a kiddie b-day party - double score!

"Keep On Rollin..."

2009-03-07T17:57:00.005-05:00

Felt a little REO Speedwagon jiving through me this early evening. Got to boogie on off to a fundraiser here in a bit, but before that gets put into motion, I thought I would post an entry. I took a hiatus with the blogging for a while & now with spring break this week, I have no accuse but to stay honest & consistent with this little ditty of ramblings from the life of yours truly.

"Keep on rollin" seems to be a good motto to have for one's life. I know that in my life, I've been down & I've been out. I've won some, tied some, & lost more than my share. Been in love, been in lust, been cheated on, dumped & scratched my head attempting to figure out the "why"? Trying to make sense of it all can be massively confusing for any cowboy or cowgirl.

However, one thing always remains the same, just keep rollin & put one foot in front of the other. Even if it's slow steps, it's something. Also, you have to love every minute of this life. The final lines in American Beauty always get to me. Say what, haven't seen it yet or forgot the lines? Shame on you; it's one of my top 5 favs. Time to revisit it again & just take the time to let your brain marinate in the closing lines by the talented Mr. Spacey.

Have a good Saturday folks.

The Fish That Fry... The Gals That Shop

2009-03-06T22:52:00.002-05:00

Went to a Lenten fish fry tonight with Sunita & Lynn. Since I am not much of a fish fan, I opted for the perogies. The food was tasty & the money goes back to the church, so I guess it was a win-win situation.

After chowing down, we headed to Strongsville to do a little shopping. Sunita needed to take care of a pants situation at Banana Republic. I ended up buying another shirt there. Sort of funny because prior to 2 months ago I owned nothing from there & now the collection is slowly growing.

We soon headed to Old Navy. Sunita had been schooled earlier this week that the best way to "shop with Athena" is by just tossing items in my arms with the short, yet easy to follow orders of "try this on". I have always considered myself to be fashionably challenged, so I approve of this, "don't question, just disrobe and put on" method. I think I ended up with some great new loot - two pairs of jeans, a purse and some new tops. Not too bad for an evening's worth of shopping. : )

A Running Grocery List of Tasks To Accomplish Over Spring Break Next Week..

2009-03-05T21:22:00.005-05:00

Yes, I am a teacher & I get a spring break (well, at least from one school). Feel free to make a snippy comment about how unfair it is that I get a week off - heaven knows I did so when I worked at a pot luck of various jobs before educating.

In no particular order of importance:

- Get an oil change

- Unpack all the odd miscellaneous boxes of books and junk in my basement. The honeymoon move in period has long passed, time to get quasi-organized

- Have lunches & dinners with various friends that I have neglected due to my own recent self absorbed state of mind

- Go to get those teeth cleaned

- Watch at least 3 movies that I purchased 4 months ago from a going out of business local video store.

- Wail on my pecks with the weight bench (well, not so much wailing as attempting to lift)

- Decide on which flicks look interesting at the Cleveland Film Fest coming up later this month

- Pick up my guitar, look at the "teach yourself" manual for 4 mins & then put both items back in the corner

- Paint my upstairs hallway - light blue?

- Find a worthy hangable pict. for the big old empty space at the top of my stairs

- Scope out pinball machines on the internet, strongly consider purchasing, only to have a tiny bit a maturity override my thought process

"And I Think It's Gonna Be A Long, Long Time....."

2009-03-04T22:09:00.005-05:00

I should skidadle out the door for a run this evening, but I just flipped on Life on Mars and they are playing Rocket Man. One of my favorite Elton John songs, so perhaps I shall sit & watch a bit. This show started out strong, but like most things, quickly faded. Tisk, tisk... the way it goes...

Speaking of a long, long time, I verbally committed to run 18 with Kate tomorrow.... Hopefully the weather will smile on us. If not, poor conditions build character, eh?

Running it Erie style with Brian back in Sept. It was a wee bit too warm that day. However, even in the humidity, Brian still got some cute little boys.

Who Hearts The Family Guy? I Do! I Do!

2009-03-03T18:53:00.001-05:00

One of my favorite clips is below. So shockingly funny....

Authors that I recently danced to "We Don't Have To Take Our Clothes Off" with in her family room....

2009-03-02T21:41:00.007-05:00

Yeah, how do you like dem apples? Go Rhonda, get that book published! Here's to the clever gal that kept me entertained through Crit. Theory & boring Jane Austin seminar classes in grad school. Got to love a friend that also writes you as a character in one of her stories. Now how many of your friends deliver like that???

A truly classy lady with a talent for the written word; no one deserves this more. : )
Count me in to be your assistant at the first book signing. You can feel free to throw that glass of tap water in my face any day.

Oh yeah, and for those reading, when it becomes available: BUY THE BOOK!!

http://www.amazon.com/Stupid-Cupid-Rhonda-Stapleton/dp/1416974644/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1235673496&sr=8-3

What A Short & Strange Journey It Has Been

2009-02-26T20:10:00.002-05:00

These two weeks have been, hands down, the strangest of my life. I know I can't discuss the "whys", but just trust me and ask no questions. I finally feel now that things are returning back to normal. Some things I have learned:

- Successful communication is best achieved through calm conversation

- Wine is a good tension eliminator

- You never realize how much you enjoy sleep until you loose lots of it

- Verbal contracts made while smoking a cigar are as good as gold

Words...

2009-02-21T19:40:00.001-05:00

Words that Athena is starting to hate this week...

- Waiting

- Decisions

- Time

- Trying

Reading, Peeing, Grading, Reading, Eating, Grading, Reading, Grading, Running, Grading, Reading.....

2008-12-17T20:14:00.002-05:00

Well, you get the picture. Finals are in full swing around my neck of the woods. My progress is coming along quite nicely. Although, all the caffeine, holiday cookies & candies available around school has aided in my work progression. Well, back to another stack of composition.

What is everyone else up to these hours?

Oh yeah, and GO VIKES!!!!!

"Jackson's Half-Court Shot Sends Vikings Past No. 11 Syracuse, 72-69"

An Angel in the Snow

2008-12-08T15:16:00.004-05:00

Sometimes you encounter that perfect amount of snow. You know, the quantity that is larger than a dusting, yet not overwhelmingly annoying. About 2 weeks ago we had that type of optimal snow in Parma. To celebrate the event, I made a snow angel outside my office. Sure it only lasted a few hours (till the snow bombarded us later that evening) but it was a nice sight to see while it lasted...

Pictures From The Michigan/Northwestern Game

2008-11-24T11:48:00.009-05:00

Here are some pictures from the Mich/N.W. game two weeks ago. My brother was a good sport for the game. He did manage to wear the scarlet and gray under his coat and signal the "O" (see pict below) but he also managed to put up with my goofy windshield wiper & my frequent running into gift shops.

Happy Tuesday

2008-11-11T14:20:00.002-05:00

It has been over a month since I last updated my blog. Time sure does fly when you are having fun! You would think that after this much time, I would have something quite witty to say. Sorry, nothing really new to report. Enjoying my day of laundry, grading and cleaning on this chilly Tuesday afternoon. I had my morning class at B & S but my afternoon and evening classes are cancelled due to Veterans' Day. I feel like a big olde cheat since I am enjoying my day of leisure while others sacrificed both their time and bodies to truly deserve this day. Thanks veterans!

Another Thing That Scares The Poo Out Of Me Besides Halloween During This Month Of October...

2008-10-05T23:46:00.003-04:00

Sit Back & Just Enjoy The Melody On This Sunday...

2008-10-05T01:28:00.000-04:00

Da 1/2

2008-09-23T20:42:00.005-04:00

So I learned from my brief journey to Erie, Pa that I am not so handy with the roads of my neighboring state. However, neither were the folks at the hotel who gave us wrong, half ass directions to the course. Nothing like slowly (and the speedily) driving through the streets of Erie while occasionally stopping at local establishments to get some help with my bearings at 5:30 in the a.m.

All I have to say is that thank goodness Brian has a lot of patience and was able to guide me to the start of the race with the help of a borrowed map at McDonalds. Running a marathon is tough enough but throw in having waste precious time to calm down my spazish self and you have one antsy situation. I have no idea where he gets his calmness from or directional skills, but I need some of those traits!

When we all finally made it to the course, with just moments to spare, I soon found out at around mile 3 that this was going to be a hot one. My sweat band had already reached its capacity. Figuring a 1/2 PR like I had hoped was not in the cards, I proceeded to chat with runners around me and yell "Go Browns" to every a-hole sporting Stealers (not a typo, I call them that because they always steal Cleveland's hopes) garb. My actions did not make the heat situation any better but it did pass the time in a mildly entertaining way.

I finished in 1.49.01/ 8.19 per mile pace. When I think that in 2005 I ran a 3:36:56 it makes me more than a little sad but after considering the heat and my under prep work I am content. I think it would be a great flat and fast course if the weather was... Per say.... 40 degrees cooler. Oh well, to wish and to hope! I have no idea how Brian and the rest of the marathoners got it done that day. Just thinking about doubling the distance inspires me to perspire even more.

The Full That Would Become a Half

2008-09-15T15:18:00.003-04:00

Looking back, this subject line resembles a bad divorce topic line. However, the gist of this post is to discuss the Erie Half Marathon. Sorry it has been a while since my last post. The new gig and moving has kept me quite busy. However, all good things so I got no complaints.

I had all the intentions of running the full marathon but I decided at the expo (if you can call it that - a pavilion in a state park with two small half tented vending areas pimpin shirts and gels) to back off and do the half. My first concern was the weather. It poured kittens and puppies on the way down making driving a bear (like all the animal references in one sentence?) Plus, the weather was warm and humid. In addition, I really cannot deny that I had been pretty lazy with the training. Yes, the fall on my knee set me back a little, but before and after the injury I still could have put in more speed and distance. Well, got to jet to class. More to come where I discuss the casino stealing my dough, yelling at Steelers fans and Brian saving my ass with stellar directions.

3 Reasons to Cheer This Week....

2008-08-19T17:19:00.002-04:00

~ New job

~ Closed on my condo

~ My b-day

Cute Puppy On The Prowl

2008-08-04T10:59:00.006-04:00

Alicia and John recently adopted a lab pup named Dorsey. She is little cutie pie. Here are some picts.

Guess Who Is Excited to See The Great Neil In Concert On Sunday??

2008-08-01T13:47:00.001-04:00

I AM! I AM!!!!

Because It's All Fun & Games...

2008-07-28T11:56:00.002-04:00

Until your girl gets the boot on Shear Genius
It was a good run Gail! Now who am I going to be pulling for?
Perhaps some day I will make the trek out to Columbus and shell out the big bucks for a cut and style at your skillful hands.

Dem A Classy Bunch Of Stick Ball Players In Wisconsin...

2008-07-14T21:06:00.003-04:00

Something tells me that very apologetic letter from the teammates was handed to the wife and/or baby mama a few days after....

A Picture is Worth A Thousand Words...

2008-07-09T21:03:00.002-04:00

Really I can only think of 3:
Dominate Athletic Prowess

Backyard BBQ Run Down List:

2008-07-03T16:06:00.003-04:00

THINGS TO DO TONIGHT

~ Get hammered

~ Have fun

~ Attempt to drunkenly jam my guitar

~ Text message Steve that I am drunk at backyard bbq.

~ Smile lots

~ Eat yummy food delights

~ Listen to my mom yell at us to use the sparklers that she, for some reason, insists on purchasing every year for our 5 year old mentality delights.

~ Pass out, while still smiling. : )

HAVE A GOOD ONE!! BE SAFE!!

The Favorite Place That I WANT To Be This Week - Track Town USA

2008-06-30T13:32:00.003-04:00

Because I want to be in Eugene, OR this week watching the best of the best so their thang....
Because watching some of the close events makes me smile, yell and even turn on the water works a little. Because even though I was pullin for the local gal and Michigan grad Katie McGregor to get her ticket to Bejing (4th place twice = hard to swallow squared) I still had to give credit where credit is due... Hell of a race Amy Begley...

Favorite Television Drama. "Every Day Above Ground Is A Good One."

2008-06-25T20:47:00.009-04:00

Jen recently started indulging in season one and hearing about her love at first view made me reminiscent of a show that I hold so dear. So lovingly,in fact, that I made the theme song my ring tone. Well, that is until I tore my phone in half and have been trying, without much luck, to get it downloaded once again on to my new phone. Oh well.... I still got nothing but heart for "Six Feet Under"& here are just a few snack pack reasons why...

Eliminating The Notion That A TV Drama Has To Have One or Two Truly Unique Characters While The Rest Of The Cast Is A Mix Matched Assembly Of Poorly Construed Archetypes: For its 5 year run, the show always had between 10-12 characters that were strongly developed. Yes, having Alan Ball (American Beauty) call the shots was the glue for the show, but the slue of talented writers and actors helped to create, and even more amazingly, keep the stamina up for as long as they did.

Facing The Taboo Head On: As everyone can guess from the title and even just knowing a bit about the show, it dealt with death. The only thing besides, well, you know, taxes, that you can't hide from. Some times the expiration's were natural and clean but most times they were heart wrenching and just over the line bizzaro. As much as you "eeeked" to view it, you just kept coming back.

The Best Series Finale Ever: The way that show ended was a masterpiece. I can count on both hands how unfulfilled I have been with many of the series finales of my likable shows and that scared me going into the "Six Feet Under" last call. From plot, symbolism, point of view, characters, music to irony, the show delivered without disappointment. I have seen the final episode probably 4 times and during and after every time, I cry. Yes, cries of sadness for it ending but most of all I am quietly sobbing because I pretty much have come to terms with the notion that no other show is going to come close to this one. And you know what, that is a-okay.

"These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things..."

2008-06-24T16:14:00.003-04:00

I am rounding third and headed for home with My Life On The Run. Which, by the way, is a terrific read. Even if you are not a running enthusiast, I still think you would dig it. Anyway, the last chapters deal with Bart's (you know, since I got the chance to briefly shoot the shit with him I feel like we are best buds. In reality, I bet I faded quickly in his mind with all of the other crazy question asking fans)favorite runs. I decided to focus on some of my favorites. Well, since it is summer, I thought that favorite ice cream flavor would be a great starting point.

So, here is it.... Superman. So many flavors, so much goodness.... Yum, go get ya some!

HAPPY B-DAY ALICIA!!!!!

2008-06-18T12:41:00.002-04:00

This a picture of Alicia & some nerdy girl last year on her b-day. We went skating. Alicia digs the skating and she is very stellar at it. In fact, a little girl was quite infatuated with her and was making autograph requests. On the other side of the rink, I was trying very hard for my bum not to hit the ice.
Today Alicia is 29. Hooray for the birthday girl! I hope you have a great day! If you see Alicia today, give her a b-day high five.

Fun With Hats at Katie B's Bachelorette Party!

2008-06-18T12:35:00.004-04:00

Get Off Your Duff & Turn On Your Tele to....

2008-06-16T13:03:00.004-04:00

"Swingtown" - CBS (yes, they now do have another show worthy of watching besides "How I Met Your Mother")
Thursday, 10:00 pm - Come on, Friday is the next damn day so don't pull that "I get up early to make a living" crap with me. DVR or old school VHS this bad boy if you just can't keep your eyes open or if your at the bar.

Hot cast, good story line, and the threat that basic cable is going to drop it in about 2 weeks because of the whole "too controversial" jazz. Better watch it before it defunks in a few months to premium!

A Fun Kind of Crazy

2008-06-09T14:53:00.002-04:00

This weekend was a whirlwind of corn roasting at the rib burn off, a wedding, running, grading essays, more corn and more corn. It was a fun and exhausting weekend. More on that later. Got class stuff to prepare. I hope you are all beating the heat!

Some Sweaty Dudes and Dudettes

2008-06-03T11:54:00.009-04:00

Here are some picts from the race this weekend. It was a steamy one, but the race went better than I hoped. The added bonus was that no one got submerged in the river during the canoe portion. 25th out of 76 ain't too bad for these ladies!
The following picts are of Jo, Jen and me before and after the race. The two boys are Mark and Matt, Jo's friends from work with were a blast to hang with over the weekend.

What's Brewing?

2008-05-29T16:47:00.005-04:00

Heading down to the southern region of Ohio this weekend to participate in Little Miami with Joanne, Jen and Jen's aunt. Should be a heap load of fun with some canoe action of 6 miles, joggin of 5.5 miles & bicycle pumpin of 18 miles. If anything, it will be interesting and a whole lot of fun. When the 3 of us get together there is always a heap load of tom foolery going on....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

2008-05-06T16:55:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was Senor Puffy Tail's (AKA Stewie's) b-day!
The big 1
What did you get him?
He likes things that are fuzzy or make cool noises.

An Excellent Use For Those Ye Old Bridesmaid Dresses...

2008-05-02T17:08:00.009-04:00

This is what happens when Athena & her friends get together for a holiday white elephant party (AKA tacky gift exchange) while sporting former bridesmaid dresses with consuming lots of alcohol. Oh, and throw in a creepy doll for good measure...

Thanks Jen, for sending the picts...

Fun Times in Countryville

2008-04-28T21:28:00.002-04:00

This weekend was a blast. I honestly could not have had a better time. Actually, I wish I had more time to visit Nashville, TN. I was happy I did the 1/2 instead of the full because it was quite hilly. However, I did enjoy the music along the way.

When Lisa moved back to Tennessee I was bumming and struggled to imagine why. I am true to my city of Cleveland but now I can see her draw to Nashville. But I guess when the push comes to the shove, which, lets be honest, most times it does, I just like to have my friends close by - especially the ones that are just genuine in every essence of the word.

Already thinking about going down again in the summer if she can put up with me for another weekend.

I guess the moral of this adventure is that if you keep an open mind, you never know what you might end up enjoying.

Yeeeee With A Little Bit-O- Haaaaw Action

2008-04-24T19:15:00.003-04:00

Heading of to Tennessee this weekend to shuffle on through the Country Music Half Marathon. I know, I know, 13.1 miles of country music. This yankee does not know what she is getting herself into. Well, better a half than a whole. The bonus will be my home girl Lisa showing me the finer parts of the south with all its hospitality and such....

And no Alicia, I will not be kidnapping Tim McGraw for you....

2008-04-17T14:55:00.003-04:00

I know sooner or later, hopefully more towards the second, my memory will fade. Events that I once held onto with crystal clear clarity will become mucky in my mind. However, I hope that when that day does come that the memories I am able to hold onto are the fun little ones. Those spontaneous moments in life that make you lean your head back and let out a great belly laugh. Since e. e. cummings laid it out Since Feeling is First, I hope my mind is etched with miscellaneous moments.... Such as friends singing impromptu karaoke at local dive bars....

2008-04-07T14:06:00.002-04:00

Wow, it looks like it has been over a month since I last updated this thing. Guess time flies when you are having fun. I can't really think of anything entertaining to post at the this moment. I will give it some thought. As for now, good luck to all my peeps that are running Boston! Kick some butt and I will be hoping that the weather does not include any massive amounts of heat, cold or rain!

When The Weird Gets Weirder

2008-03-05T12:42:00.003-05:00

So yesterday I decided to make a brief pit stop in the discount store next to the Chinese restaurant. I had about ten minutes to kill before my pick up order was going to be ready so I thought why not amuse myself with browsing through trinkets instead of paging through stained, bent paged copies of People from 1998.

This choice soon proved to be an excellent one. I spied it on the top shelf down the floor zone graced with phone cards and first model cd players that most likely skip all around town at the thought of it's consumer moving while enjoying tunes.

This gadget appears to be a lady, with a swan. There is also the added bonus of a phone and lamp attached. I have no idea who made this, how much it costs (I looked, there was no price tag)or who the target audience is for this item of splendor. All I know is that I must have it!

Good Luck Tonight Mr. Anderson!!!

2008-02-24T14:01:00.002-05:00

To the guy that made screwing in rollerskates in front of Burt Reynolds surprisingly poetic instead of down right creepy, I wish you and your little ditty about "An Oil Man" the best of luck.
I am willing to bet my kitten that D.D. Lewis already has a clinch on the Best Actor but here's to hoping that you will grace the stage (they better not do that half ass interviewed in the chairs for the lesser known awards that they did last year. What a mother fuckin slap in the face!) for acceptance of the writing, director and best pict. I will have my fingers crossed and my milkshake cold for you. : )

2008-02-14T15:39:00.005-05:00

When I think of how talented this couple's daughter is going to be it makes me cry tears of joy.....

When I think of how horrible of an actress this couple's daughter has the potential to be it makes me cry tears of pain...

Cute Twinfant Alert!!!

2008-02-10T14:36:00.000-05:00

What is better than one cute baby? Try two! This weekend I was lucky enough to hang out with Brian and Teresa's little bundles of joy. I also love how they call Caden & Cole the "twinfants".

301, Who Said It Could Not Be Done?

2008-02-08T12:39:00.000-05:00

Yeah, my 301st post. Honestly, it does not look one over 250, if I do say so myself.

I know, I have been a little absentee balloted recently, and really I have no excuse. I do still care and love you all that check in. Oh, and that is a handsome shirt/pretty blouse that you are sporting today.

As for me, just chugging along. Nothing too high or low to report. I have to admit that I like it that way. "A steady as she goes..."

Here are some random updates in no order of significance:

~ Work is going well. I have my 6 classes and the routines have seemed to kick in with students as we enter Feb. I have 3 speech classes this semester (the class I heart the most) so that has been a nice incentive during these brisk winter days. The schedule is a little wacky with 8:25 am classes, afternoon and classes till 9:50 pm but I do like variety and I guess I am still young and bold enough to pull it off without a hickup. Dan has been showing me the ropes of the program director position as he hints more and more about switching spots and going back into teaching as opposed to administration. I have been involved with some meetings and such this week.

~ I am teaching Eng 1020 this semester at the community college. It is an 8 week class that fires up in March. I am so psyched! Still debating on which to start first with: the poetry, the drama or the research? Any suggestions? Yeah! Getting to put one of my minor degrees into practice!

~ Running has been consistent. As of this very minute, I am banking on doing a 1/2 in the spring with a possible full. However, just training for a quailty 1/2 and leaving the full for the fall does seem like a tempting plan as well. Still flip flopping on this one.

~ House/condo hunting has resumed. Well, at least to the extent of me scoping out places via internet or drive bys (not the shoot em up kind) again. Even if my ambitions of physically exploring places have not been so phenominal at least I do have a better idea of the sorts of things I would want in my furtue home.

~ I gave up the ranch dressing for Lent again this year. I know, it may sound trivial for most but for me, it is a tough sacrifice. I would put it on oatmeal if I would not get weird looks. However, my dad gave up soda and he is a SODA ADDICT. I take some comfort in knowing that he is going through more craving hell than I will be these next 30ish or so days.

Well, that is all I got. Catch ya on the flip side.

The Jewish Version of My Mom

2008-01-16T12:17:00.000-05:00

My home girl Stephanie in the library at school let me borrow volumes 1 & 2 of Amy's Answering Machine Messages. The hysterical answering machine messages from Amy's overly cautious, borderline schizo mom. The first disk had me laughing so hard yesterday in my car that I was literally in tears. No topic is too taboo for this wonder mom: the weather, common colds, sheep skin condoms, quality Jewish rye bread. For a hearty laugh, you at best be checking it out!

For a sample of some of the goods, check out the site: http://www.sendamy.com/

Because I Heart (Parentheses) As Much As The Next Sap On The Street

2008-01-10T15:20:00.000-05:00

Hi Gang (or at least the 3.4 people that read this on occasion):

I hope you have all been well. I know, there has been a drought concerning the recent posts on this blog. I apologize for that (but really, who should I be apologizing to?). Anyway, I don't have a good valid excuse for my absentee nature. I had a nice fat holiday break from teaching (you know
the one that I used to get freak nasty pissy about when my teacher friends were maxin & relaxin and I was working the grind at the good old investment company). I hope that santa was kind to you. I got no complaints for the bearded dude this year.
For all of those that are curious about what I was up to, here is a list of some events I am pretty sure many of you cannot lay claim to having partaken in (listed in no particular order of importance):

~ Watched half of season 1 of Dawson's Creek

~ Had horrid food poisoning or stomach flu (still up for debate) that had me laying in the fetal position in my bathroom floor

~ Saw a drag king show

~ Almost adopted a one eyed kitten at the pet store

~ Half ass cleaned my place

I am sure there are more boring details, but nothing is coming to mind at this time...

People That Need To Go Away In The New Year: The 2008 Edition

2007-12-20T15:14:00.000-05:00

I have completed the research papers and now on to the final exams. My brain needs to shift gears so I thought a blog posting would be appropriate to spread some holiday complaining. 'Tis the season.....

Elisabeth Hasselbeck

Oh go heavens, how does she even manage to still hold a spot on a talk show? Well, considering it is The View, I guess I answered that question already. Such a hyper Red-State conservative, such an annoying voice, such an sassy Mrs. Priss who would be a verifiable no name without the namesake of her overrated hubby. If we can't get her completely out of the media than she needs to at least be confided to print.
Oh yeah, she also spells her name in that pretentious way. Yet another point to tally on to the list...

Candidate For The Head Honcho Spot?

2007-12-11T21:14:00.000-05:00

Hey, University of Michigan, have you tried giving this guy a buzz? I doubt he is very busy these days and he did know how to make the The Big Blue win.

Day Man!

2007-11-27T16:05:00.001-05:00

Awe, Come On Now!

2007-11-25T15:04:00.000-05:00

So SNL has there "Family Thanksgiving Leftovers Special" yesterday and they fail to show the BEST Thanksgiving skit EVER. I searched YouTube to show those that have been living in a cave and have not viewed it but YouTube left me empty handed.

I am guessin that you are smelling the skit that I am reheating. You know, the Air Supply spoof with the big haired soft guys jammin to their "Holiday Love" song. Ahhh, that's good shit. SNL, you let me down!

I hope you and yours had a happy turkey day!!!

Oh Lance...

2007-11-13T15:17:00.000-05:00

Well, my original intent was to construct an open letter to Lance Armstrong inquiring about his recent rompage with a Miss Ashley Olsen, but as we all know, the picts tend to speak a little louder than the diction these days....

Lance: 1987

P.S. I dig the dude in the "ever so tight" zebra speedo charging out of the open waters...

Ashley: 1987

See it, now!

2007-11-12T20:32:00.000-05:00

Ben can't act, luckily his little bro can do the deed. I will throw the Bean Town boy a bone: he can adapt a screenplay like no one's business and direct the pants off of any scene....

It was a movie that made me think more than any other film I can recently recall. I have to warn you that parents, esp. those with the little tikes, might have a difficult time stomaching some scenes involving unsavory child treatment, but if you can grimace past those moments, you are in for an inspiring ride. It embraces the culminating excitement of Crash.

Because Healthy 28 Year Old Elite Athletes Are Not Suppose To Go Down Like This...

2007-11-05T08:42:00.000-05:00

'So tragic': Michigander Ryan Shay dies during race
Runner's death mars competition - Dedicated Shay had enlarged heart, dad says
November 4, 2007

BY JO-ANN BARNAS

FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

NEW YORK -- They didn’t speak at the starting line Saturday, in the anxious moments before the U.S. Olympic men’s marathon trials. But just three days earlier, Ryan Shay had let Clint Verran in on a secret.

“He had gotten married over the summer, and I could tell how happy he was,” Verran said of Shay, 28, who grew up in Central Lake, about halfway between Traverse City and Petoskey. “And he looked great — the leanest I had ever seen him, which was a good sign heading into the marathon. I told him that I heard he was dominating with his running group in Flagstaff (Ariz.). But he started talking about moving back to Michigan. He looked at me with a smile and said, ‘I’d be back if it was up to me.’”

Shay, one of the state's top distance runners and the 2003 U.S. marathon champion, died Saturday morning after collapsing about 5 1/2 miles into the trials race in Central Park. He was immediately given CPR, according to USA Track & Field. He transported by ambulance to Lenox Hill Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 8:46 a.m., said Mary Wittenberg, president of the New York Road Runners.

No cause of death was released, but Joe Shay, Ryan’s father and high school coach, told the Free Press on Saturday night that doctors thought his son suffered cardiac arrest and had died “before he hit the ground.”

Joe Shay said his son had been diagnosed with a larger than normal heart at 14, after a bout of pneumonia, and again at 16, after an auto accident. Shay said doctors in San Diego last spring told his son that he might need a pacemaker in the future. Shay also said his son had a resting pulse rate of 25, less than half that of a normal adult.

“What made him such a great runner,” Shay said, “was probably what killed him.”

Shay’s coach, Joe Vigil, said Shay had no health problems going into the race. The weather at Central Park was breezy and cool, in the middle 40s, almost perfect conditions for a 26.2-mile race.

At the 5K split, Shay appeared to be in perfect position. He needed 16:53 to cover those 3.1 miles, a 5:26-per-mile pace. He was in 21st place, 33 seconds behind the leader but only three seconds behind fourth-place Kyle O’Brien and fifth-place Brian Sell, who, like Verran, run for the Hansons-Brooks Distance Project based in Rochester Hills.

About two miles later, still in the main pack of runners, Shay hit the ground near the Central Park boathouse, a popular Manhattan tourist spot.

An autopsy was planned.

“I want a toxicology report done,” Joe Shay said, “because I don’t want anybody ever saying Ryan used drugs.”

In the close-knit community of distance running — particularly among world-class marathoners — Shay’s death was met by profound sadness and disbelief.

Most runners began learning of the tragedy shortly after crossing the finish line.

The three runners who earned berths onto the U.S. Olympic team for the 2008 Beijing Games — a group that included second-place Dathan Ritzenhein, a native of Rockford, and third-place Sell, who lives in Rochester Hills — all had ties to Shay.
At the postrace news conference, Sell broke down and cried, burying his head in his hands.

“I’d trade my Olympic spot in a split second to have him back,” Sell said later.

Dedicated to his sport

Ryan Shay was born May 4, 1979, in Ypsilanti. He was the fifth of Joe and Susan Shay’s eight children. Running ran in the family. The parents are prep coaches.

At Central Lake, Shay was the first Michigan boy to win four state cross-country titles. He was a Free Press scholar-athlete award winner in 1997 and was class valedictorian with a 4.0 grade-point average.

Shay went onto Notre Dame, where he became a nine-time All-America and 2001 NCAA champion in the 10,000 meters. After graduation, it was his father who suggested he hook up with Vigil at Team USA California at Mammoth Lakes.

Shay enjoyed almost immediate success. In 2003, he became the youngest U.S. men’s marathon champion in 30 years when he won the title at 23. That same year, he also won the USA half-marathon championship.

In an interview with the Free Press before the 2004 Olympic trials in Birmingham, Ala., Joe Shay recalled his son’s work ethic.

“I remember Ryan going out when it was 20 or 30 degrees below zero, because he didn’t want to miss a training day,” Shay said. “I would argue with him after he’d come in coated in snow and icicles, looking like the Abominable Snowman.

“People would call and say, ‘Do you know your son is out there running in this?’ I’d say, ‘It’s called dedication.’”

At the 2004 trials, Shay was among the favorites, but he struggled with a hamstring strain and finished 23rd. He then tried several months later to make the Athens Olympics on the track but finished 10th in the 10,000 meters. Still, he won five national road-racing titles at four distances: the 2003 marathon, 2003-04 half-marathon, 2004 20K and 2005 15K.

Shay’s parents weren’t in New York for the trials, but were headed Brooklyn, Mich., for the state cross-country championships at Michigan International Speedway. Two Central Lake girls had qualified. The Shays were 15 minutes from MIS when they received the news.

Couple built for distance

Ryan Hall, whose winning time of 2:09:02 Saturday set an Olympic trials record, was one of Shay’s closest friends.

Hall and his wife, Sara, attended Stanford, where Shay’s wife, Alicia Craig, was a former NCAA champion in the 10,000. Sara Hall was a bridesmaid in Alicia and Ryan Shay’s July 7 wedding in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Alicia hopes to qualify for the 10,000 at Beijing.

On Friday, Shay and Hall went on a training run together — four miles through Central Park, Sara Hall said. Ryan and Alicia met two years ago at the New York City Marathon, which both had attended as spectators.

“Alicia thought he was going to have a good race,” Sara Hall said of Saturday’s Olympic trials. “He had an incredible ability to push himself. I’ve seen him collapse on treadmill tests before. He could push himself to the limit. I also saw a soft side of him with Alicia. You could just tell his love for her.

“I think it shows how fragile life is, the different extremes. You’re on a high one moment, yet something completely opposite can be going on.”

Verran, from Lake Orion, said of Shay: “Ryan and I were on the same world championship team in Paris in 2003. When he first came out of college, he was a real aggressive runner and very confident — he wanted to take over the world. He was a guy of guy who went for it. It wasn’t part of his nature to lay back.

“This is so tragic.”

Halloween Party Picts!!

2007-10-30T15:33:00.001-04:00

Wendy & the ref

Hustling

"Eat dip out of me!"

Words cannot desribe how fucked up this couple looks.

"I'm gonna get you, sucka!"

"Wake up scary clown!!!"

We are precious!!! MaryAnn is one scary dude!

Drunken Devil

Dwight & Angela

"Ready, aim....."

A crooked criminal, agent, cowgirl & hoochie. What combination!

The runner & Steve King's Carrie

Go Jen, go!

Priest & naughty school girl

"Shwiiiiing!!!"

Garth!

The Total Package with Bedtime Bear

Neil - AKA: The Chick Magnet

Da Carebears!

Alicia & John's Wedding!!!

2007-10-29T08:28:00.000-04:00

Maybe It Is A Good Thing That I Just Have Pets To Torture Instead Of Kids...

2007-10-28T15:34:00.000-04:00

Stewie says "Go Blue"!
MEOW!!!!!!

A Holla At Ya!

2007-10-27T13:52:00.000-04:00

Tonight is the anual Halloween shin dig. I am pumped, as I always am, for this night. You gotta love anything that involves costumes, drinking and fun. Perfection! Well, I am gonna hustle my bootie back into the kitchen to wrap up baking. Catch you peeps lata!

Are You Gonna Dispute Me On A Friday?

2007-10-26T08:22:00.000-04:00

I say he is one of the best actors of his generation. GQ also happens to agree with me in this month's issue. So, you want to rumble with me on a Friday and tell me that ain't so, peeps? Come on, I dare ya!

Ryan Gosling

Who are my boys that are going to bring home the bacon at the Men's Marathon Trials in New York on November 3, 2007?

2007-10-17T19:59:00.000-04:00

Glad you asked, here is what I am tinkering with prediction wise....

1st: My blue collar work horse that was as sweet as pie while signing my poster at the Boston Expo in 2006...

Brian Sell

2nd: Steady and reliable adopted son who brought on the fury at Athens...

Meb Keflezighi

3rd: He is a youngen, but I think he has the goods. Oh yeah, I also dig his name.

Dathan Ritzenhein

Such Things That Excite The Running Nerd In Me...

2007-10-16T15:26:00.000-04:00

Which, now lets be honest here, is a big part of yours truly...

Because It Is So Important To Remember & Think Of How Lucky You Were To Have Some Special People In Your Life...

2007-10-13T17:26:00.000-04:00

Sitting here grading some essays this afternoon. The stack is composed of a mix of essays from my comp. classes. Some are of the descriptive nature -- "What would your dream house look like & why?" while the remainders deal with the process aspect -- "How can you and other students become a more effective student?". As my royal blue pen Pilot G -2 07 pen scribbles cautionary remarks pretaining to lack of transitions and fragments, I can't help but think of Kelly Lowe. I remember the insightful comments he used to make on his students' papers and I strive (even though I know I will never come as close as he was able to do with such ease) to ink my papers with the intent of providing a compass of improvement. I miss him a lot during times like this. It is important to remember the man and the lives that he touched in so many different ways.....

http://adeucefortheskycap.blogspot.com/

Because You Know You Watch It Or Are Tempting To Sneak A Peek...

2007-10-08T08:32:00.000-04:00

October 23 - The L Word - Season 4. Mark it down, take note, form a mental list. I intend to purchase and then, if at all possible, avoid tearing open the shrink wrap until that upcoming weekend. Come join up for some appetizers and wine. You know you want to. You know you are just a bit intrigued. Trust me and all the other loyal fans, it's captivating, alluring and well, just plain hot in that sort of way that other shows really can't comprehend. Showtime does it better, baby.

Wow, I Really Did Not Know That When You Looked Up Horse's Ass In The Dictonary, There Was A Picture...

2007-10-05T08:34:00.001-04:00

Something That I can Asure You Is NOT Bringin Sexy Back...

2007-10-05T08:25:00.000-04:00

http://www.runphotos.com/browse.cfm?race_id=118&bib_number=2311

Runnin & Clubbing and Such....

2007-09-30T17:12:00.000-04:00

This weekend was the Akron Marathon & Alicia's bachelotte party. Needless to say, Saturday was an action packed and fun day.

The race went pretty well. I was gunning for sub 4 hours since I heard Akron had multiple hills. Well, I learned first hand that the hills were not a myth. Even though the race was challenging, the scenery was great - through the trails, parts of the city, Stan Hywet Hall Garden.... The race ended on the Canal Park - Akron Aeros infield. Brian ran nifty for the marathon and Lisa kicked butt in the 1/2. I was also pumped that I spied Joanne at one of the relay check points and Liz in the stadium at the end. Getting a cold can of beer from a smiling Brian and Liz was a great way to conclude the race. The coolest thing had to be spotting the Bill Rodgers (4 time winner of the Boston & New York Marathons). I was able to chat with him for a few minutes (I did not want to be one of those annoying runner fans all up in his biz). I told him how he was one of my personal running heros and asking him for some advice for the next 25 or so miles. He was a super nice guy that I am so glad I had the chance to run into, literally!

Alicia's festivities later that night were a blast! It started with dinner and drinks at Mexican Village then we headed back to MaryAnn's pad to indulge a little more and have the bride of honor open her naughty gifts. After chillin for a bit, and me getting a litte crabby pants due to a slight combo of tiredness/soreness/upset stomach (which thankfully only last a wee bit) we headed to West 6th in donwton Cleveland. We managed to due our part to keep Alicia drunk as we danced like the fools we were. Dancing was not too bad due to the muscle relaxers I took. Everyone kept commenting how they could not believe I was out after running that morning. I was lucky because I did manage to sneak in a power nap and improv. ice bath in the afternoon so that helped alot. However, I still think the gold star goes to Jen who managed to walk the Freedom Trail and climb all those fucking steps to the top of the whatever monument that was after running Boston the previous day. Shit, I have no idea how she managed to tackle that one.

I feel pretty good today but just as expected, sore as hell! Trying to stretch and ice alot. Only have a few rub marks from my sports bra and shirt so that is good news. Well, enough of my chitter chatter. Hope you pop tarts had excellent weekends as well!

Keep On Truckin...

2007-09-28T11:07:00.000-04:00

I am running in the Akron Marathon on Saturday morning. As a personal favor, please feel free to send any prayers/ positive thoughts/warm & fuzzies my way either tonight or early tomm. in the a.m. I heard this one is a bear with the hills (thanks Liz!) so I don't think I am going to bitch slap it by any stretch of the imagination. Oh well, we shall see!

What's Going On?

2007-09-23T21:31:00.000-04:00

Hi friends, pals, lovers and everything in between. How are you? How is the hubby, the little woman and the kiddies doing? Good I hope. Sorry to be so distant recently. I could blame my absence on the start of the new semester with 8 classes in tow or me being a little on the road and a tad in the air, or the the fun festivities of Alicia & Johnny Boy's up and comin wedding, or the big Akron 26.2 finally up this weekend, but still I should have at least posted a half a line or two. Me naughty.

Chillin here grading some essays catchin a little show called The Family Guy. Otherwise know as the best f*cking show ever. Tonight is the Season Premier with a Star Wars theme. Love it so far because they have made shots out to one of my fav. films (Gia) and my dad & bro's obession (Dr. Who). Update, they just gave a zinger to the theme song from Tootsie. I love this sh*t a little more every Sunday.

Peace out cub scouts!

Thanks.....

2007-09-03T14:28:00.000-04:00

For all of you that avoiding leaving smart ass Michigan comments on my last post. I know it was hard to fight that urge, but I am grateful that you did. Well, after Saturday maybe it is a good thing that I do not have The Big Ten Network because tvs are alot more expensive to replace than a small walkman after you chuck it in anger across your livingroom.

Reason Number, I Don't Know, 252,348 Why This Gal Needs To Gideeup & Get A Place Of Her Own....

2007-08-31T16:03:00.000-04:00

Screw the bats setting up camp in my apartment, this gal needs to get some Direct T.V. The Big Ten Network is going to be showing most of the U of M games this season. That translates to me not being able to watch most of the none important, no conference, Michigan going to beat the holy crap out of em games that I used to be able to watch on ABC and ESPN 2. Damn it to hell! Because lets face, a fall Saturday afternoon without me watching the maize & blue charge the field ain't no fall Saturday afternoon!

GO BLUE!!!

It's a Hard Knock Life For Stew

2007-08-29T09:01:00.000-04:00

"Hey, little Stewie here. Just taking a quick cat nap in my gay ass rainbow tunnel. I told my mom to take a break from her crap she learned from being 27 rant to let me diss my two cents. Besides, I believe that looking at a cute kitten provides more daily fulfillment than listening to my mom babble on and on. Gosh, she is such a freak. Well, at least she did start up with teaching once again so she has that semi productive thing going, for now. But lets face it, cracking jokes in front of a room of deer in head lights freshman that will laugh at just about anything due to fear of failure is not exactly breaking a sweat for The Man, now is it? Okay, enough of this psychoanalysis shit, I got some nappage to get back to. Later, yo."

What I Learnth From My 27th....

2007-08-24T20:02:00.000-04:00

In sticking with the theme of me being maple sapish as usual when it comes to reflecting on instances in my life throughout a year at a particular marking point (per say the year end or a b-day), I have decided once again to bore you with my personal reflection points of this gal’s 27th year of skippin around town.

I am not going to do what people normally do and state that this past year was “the best” or “the worst” year of my life. Really I think that most, although people that have exceptionally stellar or catastrophic incidents occur during the course of a year do have a strong case, just use the generic labels of the best and worst because their brains are just too lazy to think back a few. Hell, I can get on board with this because I have been know to forget what I even had for lunch the day before. Okay, enough with this disclaimer shit…. Here is the rundown…. And just to make it a bit more digestable, I am going with one reflection per post. I promise, there will not be a super large number of them either...

-I learned that you can leave a job just as easily as it can leave you-

Although I did complain for various reasons about my job at the investment company and was actively on the prowl through the want ads, I still was sort of pissed when the company dissed me along with like 400 others due to the buy out. I guess this is business babe, but it did come as a sucker punch to the kisser. However, it also taught me to go out and persue what I really wanted - oh yeah, and it also showed me again how freaking lucky/blessed I am.

Hell Ya!!!

2007-08-21T21:22:00.000-04:00

This hoe or ho banger turns 28 today! Word to your mother, father and all your brothers and sisters!

"Here We Go Brownies, Here We Go!!"

2007-08-19T13:08:00.000-04:00

Okay, well they did not so much "go" until Quinn came in late in the 4th (which we missed, by the way) but I still had a blast at the Browns game last night. The Lions had a mightier roar but indulging in beer and nachos makes just about any situation an instant party.

Me, Andrea, Colleen & Gina getting our game faces/drinking faces on.

They were all sold out of hot dogs (well at least at the place we went to with the super long line). I know, WTF?? So Gina settled for the hot brawt instead.

"Hey Baby, It's Summer So Put On Those Shades & Hit The Pool."

2007-08-17T01:24:00.000-04:00

I got the chance to venture out to Lisa's (my grad. school buddy) house in Medina to hit her pool with her cutie pie kiddies - Ayden & Evelyn. We swam, we ate lunch, we laughed --- we had a blast. Good times!

P.S. I was toying with making the subject line of this "You've Come A Long Way, Baby!" but I decided to hold off on the linkage to infants and cigarette smoking. Besides, the Lucky Strikes would've been a bit cooler in the cascading water opposed to the Virginia Slims.

Okay, The Rest of Bat Night...

2007-08-17T00:51:00.000-04:00

My bro and dad, armed with a box, entered my room and closed the door. They were going to rumble while my mom and I stayed scared in the livingroom. My mom and I heard various noises as the bat flew in circles around my bed (great). After the fact, I heard that my dad tried to better the situation by attempting to throw random pieces of my clothing at the bat and rapidly ducking as the bat got close. My crafty brother was sly enough to trap the bat but the boys soon realized that the box the bat was confined in had handle holes. Yeap, you guess it, out flew the winged friend.

Eventually, they did trap it and release it. Thank goodness for dependable and brave family members that can help you out in the middle of the night! The next day, with still no contact from maintance, I went to the leasing office to do some serious bitchin. I understand that weird crap comes up in life (oh, I fogot to disclose that there was bat poo on my walls and bed too), but the the issue that really grinds me is that there was no follow up to the situation which I regarded as a pretty fucking high priority. They finally did come out as patch up the possible entry point for the bat that my bro detected. Hopefully I will be bat free in the future! Knock on wood...

Things Gone Batty Continued....

2007-08-14T23:53:00.000-04:00

Sorry, I took a minor hiatus from my bat story. In fact, I think I told most of my regular blog readers (the whole 4.5 of em out there) verbally about the fiasco, but for closure sake, here is the skinny of my scary black winged night flyer...

So Stewie, the wonder kitten, tipped me off that something was up in my room. After I saw the wing, I had amazingly enough freaked out sense to close my bedroom door to confine the bat. I then grabbed my cell and when to the hallway to frantically call my mom with Stew in hand. Due to my tone, she intially asked. "Are you being attacked??!!" After I told her reason for my wigging out, she said to call the 24 maintance number. I thought this would be a quick solution, however, it was false advertisement since my anxiously placed call went straight to an answering maching. WTF?

This meant I had to send in the troops. AKA: those family members with more guts than me to battle the bat -- my bro & dad.

More to come tomm. sorry, got to hit the hay!

Rides, 20 Milers, BBQs & Flying Bats

2007-08-12T19:13:00.000-04:00

Yes, all of these things are part of my weekend. Some parts were a little more terrifying than others.

On Friday I got the priveledge of going to Cedar Point with my bro for his company outting. The park was a bit crowded and it has been a while since I went to The Point around peak season. The longest wait we had was for the Maverick (about 1 1/2 hrs.) but it was waaaaaaaay worth it. That ride kicks your ass and does not even bother to ask for your name. Despite the matching arm bruises, the ride was fantastic.

My legs were aching pretty bad after Cedar Point but I still wanted to get my 20 miler in this weekend. I pulled a long run switchero this weekend because I did not want to do 20 duty on the weekend before my b-day. This girlie has got some plans to maximize fun next weekend and minimize the milage next weekend so that is why I swapped 12 for 20 on Saturday. The run was actually not too bad and I started to feel better as the run went on. I also got Lynn to buddy up with me for 8 of it. Later that night I got the reward of attend a good bbq at Alicia's parents' house (she was house sitting). The food was good and the big dogs all (labs, doodles and such) all played together smashingly.

When I got home on Saturday, I started reading on the couch because I was not sleepy yet. As I was reading, I started hearing werid stirs in the direction of my room. At first, I thought it was being caused by random kids in the hallway. However, as Stewie and I inched closer to my bedroom door, I saw a black wing fly by. It was a freakin bat! A black bat flying around in my bedroom!

More on this, I promise. Yes, the bat saga will continue in my next post.

Because Instead Of Grading Final Essays, Like I Should Be Doing, I Am Instead Going To Parade You With This Crap...

2007-08-07T20:22:00.000-04:00

When I went to the vet last week so Stewie could receive his next round of "kitten" shots, Dr. Soma said that he was a "solid little guy". I think this is the polite way of stating that I might potentially have a soon to be fat cat on my hands. He is pretty hyper so he might be burning off some of that baby fat. But even if he does not, I can still be a chubby lover. Enlight of his situation though, I have adopted yet another name for the little dude. His most recent nicknames include "Beef Stew" or "Beefy Stewie". Feel free to address him as so when you come to visit. I think he is still a little too young to develop a complex about the name calling.

Hmmmmm.....

2007-08-05T23:57:00.000-04:00

Beowulf is coming out soon. Dare I make peace with the literary masterpiece that haunted me during my senior year of high school? I think I still have that group video around here somewhere. Shit, that thing took waaaaay too many hours to make.