A Little Friday Night Special -- Because, She's "Got Brass In Pocket."

I used to think that "Son of a Son of a Sailor" was the coolest title, now I am board lining with going to watch "The ex of an ex jam her guitar" as the new leader of the raddest title.

This Friday I ventured up to The Bowling Green State Univ. to see Miss Megz Small play and sing at a bar above another bar located on the main drag only little ways off campus. A few of my friends and bro were going to come but other obligations came up for some and it turned out that Alicia was the only one that could make the journey to Wood county with me on Friday night. Alicia, interested in seeing the show, was a little concerned however since I forewarned her that we would probably not be getting home till close to 4 am (due heavily to the fact that from Cleve. to BG it is about a 2 hr hike). I told her that if she could keep awake and kickin on the way to, I would be able to handle the way fro with the aid of Speedway coffee, good tunes and my a.c. kicked up a little more on the bluer side than usual. Besides, due to my wacky schedule of mostly night classes this semester, I have adjusted to becoming quite the night owl, but even inching close to that sunrise point is a little challenging for this blog gal.

I have become a little more familar with the basic landscape of BG over this past year. More so than Wooster which kept me utterly baffled and shifted my dyslexia into high gear. Also, my bro graduated from there and I attended a few summer running camps there over h.s. Prior to the show, we cruised by Alicia's old grad school apart. (to which I humiliated myself by singing "This Used to Be My Playground"). We even got a chance to check out the completed Poe Road Project. I saw it back a few months ago when it was still under construction. Despite the lack of light, creepy noises in the bushes, and threat of cars wanting the nail us, I was able to somehow spot Kelly's name and hand print. Could not find Meg's but maybe if we would have stayed longer the racoon that was lurking in the field across the street could have, I suppose, helped us spot it.

When we got to the bar it was good to see Meg and meet some of her peeps. For months I had been saying that I was going to venture up to catch one of her shows. However, due to either grading kicking my ass, freaky thunder storms that caused flooding/power outages or other various reasons, I always punked out before this weekend. However, I finally decided that it was time to put my money where my mouth was (in this case only $3.00 to see Megz and the kick butt duet of hubby and wife team "Katie & Pat" that performed prior) and watch her "do her thang". I must say, I was quite impressed. She put on a good musical act with alot of humourous commentary interaction with the audience.

An added and very spectacularly awesome bonus was that I finally got to see Steve!!!! Steve and I went to undergrad together at The Mighty Mount and now he is doing is teaching gig at The BG. At Mount, Steve and I were both writing majors and apostles of Dr. Kelly Lowe. Steve also brought his super nice entourage of wife Melissa and his peeps - the married dynamic duo of Paul and Carrie. All of them were soooo sweet and really easy to chat/drink with. So without, further interuption, here are some pictures from this past Friday at Grumpy Dave's....


B.F.F. Pose with Steve-o. Sorry, Melissa! Was having issues with croping, but I think your funny facial exageration adds to the flavor of the pict! Don't worry, there is a cute one of you two comin soon. I promise!


Megz, a big weirdo from The Cleve. & Jess. Some look thrilled and some look dead serious.



There we go. Now that is the type of maritial bliss that you just want to bottle and drink up with a straw! -- Liss & Steve



Meg & Jess chillin prior to the show


This is Barb. She is pretty neat. We also share one funny similarity. Hit me up sometime, I will share.


Me probably trying to explain something to my friends or just acting like a tard..... Possibly both...


No, Roy is not the only one that rules. So do Carrie & Paul!


Good picture of Alicia but I look like I want to rumble.




Megz is strumin her guitar. I guess I should have zoomed in. Looks like I took this from 400 meters away!

My Boys Are Back At Work Next Month! Can't Wait For Season Another Season Of Rescue Me!

I love FX's orginal programs and Rescue Me is my fav. of the pack. The season finally last year left much up in the air or shall I say potentially up in smoke (not in the Cheech & Chong way though). Will Tommy get injured in the fire accidentally started by Sheila? Will Sheila have to pay any type of price, whether it be emotional or criminal time for her intentional drugging on Tommy? Will Chief Jerry ever be able to return to the fire house post heart attack? Will the marriage of Sean and Tommy's spit fire sister really pan out?

So many questions that will soon be answered. However, there are some things that I have opinions on (surprise, surprise) ...

~ No more of the religious symbolism that grossly saturated season 2 while Tommy was battling his alcohol addiction. They really turned the Messiah action up post Connor's tragic death. Last season did not showcase and J.C. or Mary Magdalen sightings so I am hoping they follow that path this season.

~ Mike ( Probie) needs to make a sexual decision and stop being on the fence about contemplating his straightness, gayness, biness and then gayness again. At first it was entertaining, but now the story is just becoming too drawn out.

~ Franco needs to get Akila back. Susan Sarandon's guest character role took her in a fly by night kidnapping to a privileged world. Will Franco ever own up and go searching for his daughter even if it means facing probable jail time for stealing her from a messed up foster home in the first place?

~ Who will be Tommy's main source of conflict now that Johnny is out of the picture? I loved the feisty Irish male brotherly dynamics that took place between Tommy and Johnny. With Johnny getting shot down during a bust, who will help to fuel Tommy's aggression? I strongly doubt his ex. priest cousin can step up to the plate. I think there needs to be a new cowboy in town to duel with Tommy and provide a parallel plot for Tommy's issues with the ladies.

Well, that is all I got. Off to grade!

Nice Job To All My Peeps That Ran Races In Cleveland Yesterday!

Good job Jo, Brian, Liz and Janet! Lots of PRs and smiles on your faces yesterday. A pretty good combo for a challenging course! As promised. I will put together my list of top sayings that I screamed yesterday while cheering. To be honest, I think I was a alot more creative with my word choices last year but I still think there are some zesty zingers in there... More to follow when I get done with classes. But here is a little drink (perhaps a lemon drop shot?) to get you going.

1.) "I love runners, especially the nasty and sweaty ones!!"

2.) This comment was said to a kid in the race that was sporting a U of Oregon track jersey, "Go Pre!! Don Kardong is up ahead." It made him laugh pretty hard. However, those spectators around me that lacked 1970s collegiate track knowledge looked at me as if I had lobsters on my face.

3.) "You guys rock! Keep it up!!" I know, a pretty boring catch phrase but I think it helped a few as they were cruising by me.

4.) "Honk if you heart marathoners!!!" I was yelling this one as I was in transit in the Vibe driving over a bridge. Luckily this year I did not come close hitting any runners.

Happy B-Day Jimbo!!!

This week Jim turned 34. 34 is the new 21, or at least that is the word on the avenue. In honor of this I was going to post an old school picture of us from circa 1983 with him sporting a straight brim hat and big brown framed glasses and me attempting to chase some geese at the zoo. But due to me not having a scanner and the quality of the Polaroid being sub par, I decided to opt to just describing.

If you ever do want to take a gander at the real one, come over to my place and take a looky, it is priceless.

Jim is a rockin fellow to have as an older bro. Over the years our relationship has changed alot. Growing up (him being 6 years older), I used to take and sometimes eventually break his toys (now it is just his cds that I loooong term borrow). As we got older it was time for the headlocks in the mall. Which would prompt my mom to just give up of yelling at us and walk away like we were not her offspring.

As I got older he would serve as DJ for my backyard b-day parties. Although, as I just recently found out this past summer, I was not privy to the rum and cokes that he was secretly supplying to my high school friends. What the hell? I could've used a drink or two?! But we will let it slide since I have bummed many a Great Lakes off of you post college.

When I moved to college Jim was the dependable bro that I could call on when my computer magically ate my Victorian Literature paper about 20 mins before it was due. Inspite of my girlish hysterical crying and swearing, he kept me calm and helped me to slavage at least a portion of my paper.

Jim has an easy going personality which is a welcome change in our frequently hyperish family circle. So easy going in fact that he often lets us use his house as party central. In fact, I remember one New Year's Eve when my friends and I had the oddity of zero plans on the agenda for the holiday night. We came up with the idea of having a get together at Jim's. We ran it by him and he, of course, being the mellow dude that he is, readily approved. But here is the kicker, he was not even going to be there because he already had plans of a attending one of pal's parties. Left with the instructions of "Just try not the break anything and clean up when you are done." he left me with the keys to his castle. Yeap, that is the type of awesomeness this man posses. I mean hell, I have heard stories from some of my friends about older brothers that are weird about them using their cars for just a trip to the mall and my bro lets me and my friends have run of his place. Yah, pretty flippin sweet.

So here is to you Jimbo. I may not say it as often as I should, but you rock!

Note Taken...

The 27 year old Athena CANNOT drink as much alcohol as the 21 - 23 year old Athena could. Sunday hurt pretty bad after Nikki's wedding festivities. This cowgirl is taken it pretty easy with the alcohol consumption this weekend.

Because You Never Know When Someone Is Going To Show Up All Spontanious- Like With A Ceramic Gnome In Hand

I found my lucky silver ring. I thought it was long gone since I have not spied it since circa 2002. Rediscovered it in my lock box under some old bank statements and insurance info. You know, where I like to keep all that important crapage.

Found my kick ass t-shirt that I love. It was hidden beneath a sweater in my closet. It is this Old Navy shirt with LA Track on it. Thought I left it behind in Boston last spring since that was the last time I remembered sporting it.

Found closure with a former flame. That came in the form of me jumping in my car a little before 10 pm on Thursday to make a surprise visit. No, it was not one of those "Reunited" again songs or an attempt at "Come on baby, lets remember the good times and get back together." It was neither of those things - we have both moved on. It was just a casual conversation while trying to box random stuff up (minus the ghosts) and a surprisingly non-awkward hug. Well, the little awkward part was me stepping in a mini pile of fossilized cat poo in the coat closet but if that was the weirdest part, than that is pretty fantastic. I needed to close the lid on this thing in a good way. I thought it would be hard, but very oddly enough it wasn't. I think I finally have peace with everything the way it is. What a relief for this gal.

Found out that I can still cheer it up for my old team. Some of you may know the junk that went down between me and my former softball team. If you don't know than don't worry about it because it is in the past now. Learned that although some people may never change, there are still a majority of folks that are keepers and you can always strike up good conversation with.

Well, off to type up some lesson plans. May you all find what you need this week.

These Wild & Crazy Friends Of Mine

Okay, anyone that runs a 1/2 marathon for charity deserves a "great job" and a "high five". Anyone that runs a 1/2 marathon, for charity, in steamy weather dressed as a big old slice of pepperoni pizza deserves a posting on my modest blog. Way to go champ! Can't wait till you move back to C-town and join our weekend run group. Oh, by the way, the costume is required dress for your first run with us.

"Hey Buck, I mean Mr. Don Cheadle, can you please sign my copy of Boogie Nights, I mean, your new book?"

Deb, Paul and I ventured to Playhouse Sq. this past Saturday evening to listen to Mark Prendergast and Don Cheadle speak about their new book concerning the possible genocide in Darfur. The session was very insightful as they spoke about the reasoning behind putting together the book, what we all can do to help out and they even touched upon issues surrounding the upcoming Olympics in China. At the end there was a small Q & A forum where high school kids tried to stump em. Overall it was a great experience topped off with getting a free book. : )

The Holiday That I Heart....

Liz and I (Pee Wee in disguise) hanging out at the Halloween party at my bro's house in 2005. Just a little something to make you laugh on a Monday when we all still wish it was the weekend! And yes, I know that the mask looks like it has been through hell and back.

Nice job this weekend at the Flying Pig Marathon in Cinci!

Learning to Grow, Growing to Learn...

As many people know, I am very interested in the concept of "self improvement". However, as many also realize from either watching their own behaviors or observing others, that taking an avid interest in a particular facet opposed to actuality implementing it into one's life are two very different beasts. However, when push comes to shove, I believe that taking the extra stride and actually doing the work to improve both your life and the environment that you live in can help you in the now and in the future. In addition, I am also aware that the label of "self improvement" can many times be one of those crap terms that can be frequently up for debate and receive harsh criticism regarding what truly works and what is just quasi-arm chair psychological bull shit. Or even the professionals can be a little too much at times (Dr. Phil, I know you have the credentials but your voice just pisses the holy hell out of me). Aside from all the chitter chatter, I wanted to share one thing that I have learned over recent times.

I remember around 2 years ago one evening when I could not sleep. In order to help me fall asleep I turned on the tv and ended up flipping to CSPAN. It must have been during the summer months because they were running old commencement addresses. I do not recall which school it was for (I wish I would've paid closer attention) but the speaker was Spike Lee. One of his key points concerned making sure that you surround yourself with positive people in your life that want to see you succeed and find happiness. Make sure these people also motivate and push you to accomplish what you desire. How true this point really is.

Throughout my life I have been lucky to have so many great people that take an interest in my life and encourage my to reach new goals. Even at times when I stumble (which tend to be many) those people in my life are there to encourage me to get back up and keep moving forward. Sometimes I remember to thank them, but many times I simply forget. So to all of those that have helped me along the way to realize what is important in life, I thank you. You have helped me to become the person that I am today - a work in progress, none the less, but a person that is aware that I can do good and have wonderful sources of inspiration all around me.

Sometime I forget how lucky I am to have such a wonderful group of supporting people in my life. Those that are not only for the most part positive, but also highly driven and focused on achieving things of substance in their lives. They care about their happiness as well as those around them. Those people especially in today's society can be a rare find, so keep your eyes open for them and get as many as you can. It is okay to be a little greedy when having these type of people in your life.

Gwendolyn Brooks: "Believe me, I loved you all. Believe me, I knew you, though faintly, and I loved, I loved you
All."

The Long (but who really has time for that anyway??) So How About The Short of It.

Making good head way on getting "reowned" by my mother. When to lunch today and made some good strides. Funny thing with my family two things seem to work in situations of great tension: Either slapping, screaming or just beating the shit out of one another (no, not like in the domestic violence alert way) or attempting to work it out over a meal. We got my parents' big 35th anniversary party coming up in a few weeks (holy crap it has been that long?) so hopefully things will be good by then or at least well faked for the time being.

This week has had me gearing up for summer classes with syllabuses and in-services. Also helping a, I guess friend is the correct word now, pack up up for her journey across the states. Happy Tuesday everyone! I am at my rents' house now and the dog is giving me a set of those "stop typing I want to go for a walk before it starts raining" eyes so I better get on that.

P.S. Tomm. is hunp day! All day long!

P.P.S. Check out how much the Mega Millions is at. If that number does not make you giggle, screw you! You have no sense of humor!

"I Am Neptune --- god of weather & pissing all over athena's plans."

Seriously, what is going on here? I guess it is my bad for living in this great state of Ohio, but enough already! Oh well, at least it is not snow. I know that part of me should just say screw it and chance whatever the weather curve ball's at me but sometimes I just can't turn off that caution gene. Flooding, lightening and threat of tornadoes still make me a little weak in the knees. Oh well, here is hoping for better weather to come this weekend!

"What I Like About You.... Is That you Know How To Dance..."

Okay, well my subject line is so not true of me, but the following does involve a brief sampling of some of my personal favs. Here they are in no particular order....

Favorite Artist or Musucal Group: Electric Light Orhestra (ELO). I think Jeff Lynne is a freakin genius. "Fire on High" gets my blood pumping anytime, anywhere and few songs can rock my world like that. The lyrics, of course not in that particular song, also hit home with their metaphorical honesty.

Favorite Current Pop Song That I am Sort of Ashamed To Admit That I Heart: Christina Aguilera's "Dirty". It is so raunchy and raw that I just have to turn it up. Ask Alicia, it almost caused a minor rucus at the recent bachelorette party when I requested a replay.

Favorite Icecream: While I do have admiration for Superman, I also go head over heals for space icecream. It is so unique and interesting that I cannot resist.

Favorite Marathon Course: Columbus, Oh. Yes I did enjoy Boston in 06 (probably would've been more enjoyable minus the groin injury) but I Columbus ranks number 1 in my book because it is a small marathon with big time crowd support. Also does not hurt that I P.Red there. Thanks Lynn. : )

Favorite Class In Class Assignment From Classes I Have Taught: When I was moonlighting and doing the night teaching gig, it seems that I would always have class on Halloween night. That first damn day that I passed out the syllabus students would complain up a perfect storm about having class on Halloween. In a effort to please both me and the brats I implemented the showing of "Halloween" during class. If they attended class and then proceeded to write a fluff assignment concerning why the movie was so popular despite its low operating budget, they would receive 10 extra credit points. This class has been recieved well by my students over recent years. Of course, there were also the instances when the students that really needed the extra points chose to go haunting housing instead but usually there was a fairly adequate turn out. other postives of this class included students coming in costume or coordinating buying pizza with the rest of their classmates. I think this assignment worked better for the original night classes than the day classes but I still used it in both time slots. Free dinner and the viewing of one of my fav. movies --- not a bad night of teaching for me.

Well, off to Sushi Rock tonight with Andrea, Gina & Colleen for some spirits and eats. Hope you all have a good night!

The Weather Is Spoiling Us Like A Flithy Rich Coperate American Father Would Spoil His Only Little Girl After A Messy Divorce

The weather this weekend was quite spectacular! Usually there is at least one day during the weekend that is plagued by rain so I was happy that we escaped that mishap this weekend in the Cleveland area. Speaking of Cleveland area, how many of you goobers caught 30 Rock this past Thursday? As if I even needed a reason to like that show more. "St. John Boscos, Big Creek Parkway, The Jake." Fucking priceless...

In sticking with TV commentary. Scarlett Jo did a stellar job hosting SNL this weekend. However, even with her as host, the show still followed the standard protocol that the last 20 mins does not contain any laugh worthy skits. I was also super psyched to see that they added onto the "Mike's Chandelier" spoof. This time it was "Mike's Columns". Her playing the distracted daughter showcasing her dad's pride "Look at this one, look at that one." almost paid me pee with glee. It is starting to rank up there with Christopher Walken's "The Continental". Well, lets not break out the champagna quite yet.

Ready To Take On The Weekend Like Jennifer Beals Did In Her Kick Ass Dance Routine At The End Of Flash Dance.

No worries, both of this images will make sense in a few tiny bits...

I stayed up to watch the end of Flashdance last night. The acting and storyline in that movie pretty much blow but the combination of "What A Feeling" and Beals bustin it in leg warmers always makes me cheer for the end. I guess it is my guilty "Rudyish" obsession. Watchin Jennifer Beals in the days before she was gettin busy as Bette scorin with every fem. dyke in the great Los Angles area. Oh have the times have changes. In addition, this time I noticed that the song "I'm on A Man Hunt" was played toward the end of the credits and that even further raised my appreciation for irony and cultural blending. No Jennifer, your acting roles are soooo not pursuing the great man hunt now.

Hi, my name is Athena. My likes include---indy movies, ranch dressing, cuddling with fleece blankets, drunken wedding receptions, random smiles from strangers, and those candy wax bottles with the tiny bit of liquid in them. Turn offs include--- attempting to parallel park, egoistical people, most seafood products, the mean cleaning lady that never says anything back to me in the morning after I say "Hello" or "Good Morning", poorly written research papers for my classes and world hunger.

Going with A & possibly J.D. to see Lemmo get a tat tonight. Considered getting another one myself but nothing really jumped out at me. Plus, it has been less than a year and I still remember how bad that mother f*cker hurt the first time. You know, my bad ass nickle size form of bringing in the hard core thunder, astrological symbol style. Lemmo wants to get a unicorn. I hope it does not look like My Little Pony. I am sure it won't. Don't know why I thought it would? Maybe I am just missing childhood. Perhaps I will get some Superman icecream tonight. Yeah, that should remedy those nostalgic feelings.

Have a good weekend, my buds!

Because I Feel It Is My Duty To Be Yet Another One Of Those Pushy A$$holes That Barks "You Got To Check This Sh*T Out!"

Saw it yesterday on Ellen and laughed my rear off. Have to pass it around to those that did not catch the episode or have not seen it fiercely circulating around cyber world as of yet

http://sjl.funnyordie.com/v1/view_video.php?viewkey=3efbc24c7d2583be6925



WHATCH IT NOW!!!!

Just Kickin It to Some D.G. As I Figure Out Grades & Such...

I love David Gray & these are his lyrics to one of his, what I consider to be, best songs. Just thought I would share because I think everyone needs some David Gray in their lives on this thing we dub as "hump day".


"Ain't No Love"

Maybe that it would do me good
If I believed there were a god
Cut in the starry firmament
But as it is that's just a lie
And I'm here eating up the boredom
On an island of cement
Give me your ecstasy I'll feel it
Open window and I'll steal it
Baby like it's heaven sent

This ain't no love that's guiding me

Some days i'm bursting at the seams
With all my half remembered dreams
And then it shoots me down again
I feel the dampness as it creeps
I hear you coughing in your sleep
Beneath a broken window pane
Tomorrow girl i'll buy you chips
A lollipop to stain your lips
And it'll all be right as rain

This ain't no love that's guiding me
This ain't no love that's guiding me

No it ain't no love guiding me
No it ain't no love guiding me
No it ain't no love guiding me

This ain't no love that's guiding me
This ain't no love that's guiding me

On winter trees the fruit of rain
Is hanging trembling in the branches
Like a thousand diamond buds
And waiting there in every pause
That old familiar fear that claws you
Tells you nothing ain't no good
Then pulling back you see it all
Down here so laughable and small
Hardly a quiver in the dirt

This ain't no love that's guiding me

Continued...

Did any of you watch the Dateline special last night about Virginia Tech? I cried from the beginning of it and was uncontrollably sobbing at the end. Giving faces and names to the victims really makes it become a reality. Also having a victim's father talk at the end of the special was indescribable. They played that Jeff Buckley Hallelujah at the end (one of my ex's fav. songs). Good song. Now I can see why she liked it so much. It was also a pretty powerful fit as they concluded one of the saddest news reports that I have ever seen.

A Note On The Virginia Tech Tragedy

I know that many of my college educator peeps have been commenting on the V.T. massacre today. And after attending an impromptu faculty meeting this morning and watching a majority of the conference held on campus while grading this afternoon, I feel nothing but heart felt sympathy for the students, faculty/administration and especially family members of the victims.

I know that many have expressed their shock about how something like this could have happened and more confusing is how the death toll ended up being so disgustingly high. However, the foremost thing that really puzzles me is the campus where it took place - Virginia Tech - a military school. V.T. was one of the five schools that I applied to during my senior year of high school and it was also the place that seemed the safest, a relative collegiate version of Fort Knox. I guess if it can happen their the thought of this happening on less secure campuses is really starting to hit home.

Don't You You Wish Your Old College Roomie Was A Stud Like Mine???

I know you wish you had one like mine. Nice job Becky combating the fierce winds and just plain crap ass weather. Today you are my hero. Way to bitch slap Boston today.

9612 White, Rebecca L. 27 F Chagrin Falls OH USA
Checkpoints
5k 0:23:55
10k 0:47:42
15k 1:11:07
20k 1:34:59
Half 1:40:08
25k 1:58:59
30k 2:24:09
35k 2:50:37
40k 3:17:13

Pace
0:07:59

Official Time
3:29:06
Overall
4925

Some Long overdue Picts. From Mary Ann & Paul's Wedding..

"Pack It Up, Pack It In, Let Me Begin..."

Sitting here typing and still more than a little zoned out from the Tom Foolery this weekend. Friday night was Mary Ann's b-day festivities and Saturday was Nikki's bachelorette extravaganza in Akron. I screwed around alot more this weekend than I probably should've with grades due this coming week but it was well worth it. When Alicia sends me the picts from last night I will be sure to post some. Ones I know worth showing will be the hotel bathroom/bar suite, the bachelorette/bridesmaids to be riding the wild bull and the mother of the bride getting more play on the dance floor than any of the other girls. It was a stellar night!

Side note: Becky, kick some ass in Boston tomm! I will be pulling for you and I hope that the winds and massive amounts of rain do not cause you to get swept away! I was just watching The Weather Channel. Yikes! You are a beast! Bitch Slap Bean Town!!

Retro Friday

Steve's blog inspired me to take the opportunity to look back on how my perspectives have shifted over the years on various topics. I am not going to take the crafty approach of syncing it up with band albums because Jefferson Airplane and David Gray are probably the only two musical talents that I would feel comfortable doing. Since I have never indulged in LSD and my White Ladder cd is skippin like a school girl, I will not incorporate these two selections in this entry. I decided that the moderator for this will be my mom. For those of you that do not know her she is quite memorable. Don't get me wrong, I love her to pieces however she has the tendency to be a bit overbearing, loud and a tad abrasive on occasion. None the less, I still appreciate the lady. Here you go. The Athena of 1987, 1997, 2007 with my mom being the featured MC.

Question #1: MC: "Athena!!! What do you want to be when you grow up? Personally, I thought that you should've just always stayed at home and just went to community college. I know how bad you are with directions and there are alot of weirdos out there; so I think at home is where you need to be. As I told you before, it is not you that I worry about so much, it is them."

1987: My first grade teacher is kind of cute so maybe I will be a teacher of some sort. Ummm.. It's normal that I think my teacher is cute, right?

1997: I like earth science so maybe geology would be a good pick. I also just had some recently success with one of my things getting published. Super psyched about that! Makes me want to turn up my new Spice Girls cd and drive around with the windows down in my Beretta. Hmm... Maybe I can just major in journalism or something and study the rocks as a hobby. I see that Mount Union has this new "Writing Major" that might be a good fit. I would have to be some type of loser not to have anymore writing success.

2007: A note to 1997 kid, enjoy it while it lasts and grow out those damn thick bangs of yours. I sort of enjoy being able to swear during my job and having my students feel forced to laugh at my jokes even when they think that they are really not that funny (which most times I have to admit they are not). Even though it will be a bit unstable until I get in a few years with a place, I think I will hang with this community collegiate thing.

Question #2: "Athena!! What is up with you and the cell phone! You are going to kill yourself or someone while talking and driving on the phone!"

1987: I think those big phones in cars are neat. Is that a cell phone?

1997: My rich friend at the preppy high school that I attend has a cell phone. Her dad is an engineer and her mom is a doctor. Must be nice to have all that money. My mom flips breakfast sandwiches at McDonald's. I did hear that rich girl is a big whore though. That makes me laugh.

2007: I love my phone. I know, it is wrong to have love for a material possession but it keeps me entertained. By the way mom, stop calling when I am in the middle of having sex. Although I would never pick up, it is still a big ass distraction and I am sure has deservingly earned some eye rolls and laughs from both parties. When I call back and say "I did not hear the phone", "I was sleeping" or "I was doing school work." I was lying and doing things that even if you tried to image, you really could not so don't even try to go there. For the sake or your sanity, just image me diligently grading essays in the school library with my phone on silent mode in my bag.

Question #3 MC: "Athena!! Are you trying to kill me?? Who are you having sex with? It is that nice friend of yours that came to one of our family parties? He does seem pleasant and smart. I hope it is him. You know I want grand kids some day and I do not think that your bother is following through on that right now. What is wrong with you two anyway? What are your views on sex? We have never sat down and had any type of a formal discussion talk about it. Well, we did have that awkward "when you get your period" talk but all that I remember from that is that I think we were both sweating alot and avoiding eye contact.

2007: Ummm. No mom, not even close. Forgeta about it, eh? "What mamma don't know won't kill her."

1987: Religion class today told me that sex is between a mommy and a daddy that love one another and want to create a baby. Not sure how it works exactly. Perhaps it is similar to a hand shake?

1997: Umm no, but you do have to be in love with someone before you do it. Waiting till marriage is the best choice. That is what the Catholic Church endorses and this Young Republican Club that I am in also supports that position. The rest of those people are probably going to go to hell anyway. I know that this is the path for me. Also, it seems like many things in life are just put in front of us as forms of temptation or "phases" that will occur in everyones' lives. I have to go, I think I have a Eucharistic Ministry meeting in like 10 mins.

2007: So what is the highest SPF of Coppertone that I can bring with me to the afterlife? Well, I always did look better with a tan.

1987: So, it is more than just a handshake?

2007: Yes, but sometimes hands can be incorporated. Hit me up when you get out of grade school and we can discuss further.

Question #4 MC: "Athena!! You always did have the tendency to freak out about stuff that really did not matter and then not sweat the really big stuff. What do you think about that? Is your approach wise or do you intend to remedy your outlooks?"

1987: Everything is a big thing! Who's house I am going over this weekend? Is the episode of Full House new tonight? Will I do well on my spelling test? How can I separate the small stuff from the big stuff when everything is of such importance! Hey, have you seen the Sports Illustrated with the Cleveland Indians on the cover? I borrowed it from dad and now I do not know what I did with it. He is sooo going to be mad at me. Now that is a BIG deal.

1997: I wonder who I should hang out with and If I should go to the movies this weekend? I see that there is a new movie called Boogie Nights coming out. Maybe some friends and I will check that out. However, I heard that it has alot of sex stuff in it and I am not so comfortable with that. Damn perverts. They are probably all going to hell anyway. Hmm.. Guess I should probably make a decision on college soon.

2007: I think me finally realizing two important facts in life has helped me to put things into perspective. Mom, I realize that you are a hyper spaz and as much as I despise your easy freak out tendencies, I also know that I have inherited them. I accept that and now I work on realizing that when I start to freak out I should stop and relax. This has helped alot. I also realize that dad's trait to laugh things off and be too mellow when he should have a greater sense of urgency is indeed included in my genetic makeup as well. I am starting to realize when to take action for particular situations. For perhaps the first time in my life I am learning sustain some type of balance. I think this is at last helping me to discover who I am and what I would like to achieve in life.

1987: But is Full House and the TGIF lineup still important to you?

2007: You have alot to learn 1987 kid, but don't worry about it. You'll put it all together some way and some day. Just enjoy the ride.

Taking on Hump Day G-Beck Style

I know it might sound weird but I like Glenn Beck's show and I watch it regularly (well, either that or porn) just before I fall asleep. Yes, he is a conservative Moron but sometimes I feel that his fist punches so far through the right that it circles around to the left. He is witty, sharp dressing & entertaining. And maybe part of me watches it to remedy the Catholic guilt that has steadily increased over the past two years for chucking out the window so many years of built up Catholic dogma. Well, I guess more than anything else it probably his fine taste in ties that lures me in.

Regardless, last night's episode was a classic example of how Beck got the tables quickly reversed (in a disagreement with Rev. Al Sharpton regarding the Imus fiasco) and used his smile & break away technique. Sharpton clearly was showing stronger points. After realizing that he had no way to reverse the half nelson, Beck opted to over noise his opponent with laughter, a smile and then a commercial break. If only life was that easy when transitioning - laugh, charm it off and then glide to another dispute which you are sure you can come out on top of with no recollection of previous defeats. Perhaps I just lack premature silver haired fox look to replicate this attitude.

Initiation Intercourse Monday & Random Thoughts

Two students in two different classes of mine have disclosed to the class that they became pregnant after the first time had sex. Damn.

Edgewise's blog gave me a good idea for comparing the different years of Athena's opinions. I am toying with this idea. However mine will most likely be a lame attempt at trying to create a DR. Pibb or Dr. Ahhh version of the original.

Some lady next to me in the computer lab at school is going postal at someone on her cell phone and this other girl is scooping out single chicks on Yahoo Personals. I love being a fly on the wall in computer labs. This type of entertainment is better than basic cable.

Back In The New York Groove Of Monday & Such

A 1:52.14 (8.34 pace) on Saturday. Not too bad for a pushin 30 year lady that just decided last week to get in shape for a half marathon. It was cold, it hurt, and my hamstrings & quads are still screamin today but I am glad that I did it. I am also glad that Lynn jumped in to help pace me for the last half of the race. That girl is unbelievable. I told her that if she ever needed an organ that I possessed two of, I would gladly oblige.

The rest of my weekend was pretty good. With my new friend in New York visiting her family for the holiday, I gave my fingers a chance to heal from the climbing wall and I hung with Michelle & her hubby on Saturday. Our plans to hit up the bars were foiled due to the snow so I hung at their homestead (indulged in some leftover wedding alcohol) and watched Ultimate Fighting. Holy crap that stuff is intense! I feel a possible new obsession for me coming on. That is some shit that I think I can really get into.

Taking It And Attempting To Make It Your Own. You Know, Sort Of Like Gwyneth Paltrow Did With Kim Karnes "Bette Davis Eyes" In The Movie Duets

Not really sure how this race is going to go tomorrow morning. First of all, the brisk wind and ice looks like it is going to be a little freak nasty bitch. Funny, I used to try to hold myself back in order to keep a sub 8 pace. Tomm. I think it will be a miracle if I can hold steady on a 9/9:20 min pace. I also still wish that I would've landed the number 269 yesterday. Instead I had to settle for 268. If only one more person would've walked in ahead of me at registration. If only......

If I don't talk to some of you, have a happy... Possibly white.... Easter!

Thumbs Up To Nikki For Hooking me Up With The Best Wedding Shower Game Gift Ever!

Alicia & Vickie are showing off the goods.

Not Much For Common Sense But At Least I Got Some Nice Blue Eyes...

Signin up for a half-marathon this Saturday. Have not run more than 9 miles since the marathon at the end of October. Oh yeah, and by the way, that 9 mile run was just this afternoon. I think this one is gonna hurt a bit. Keep me in your thoughts on Saturday morning as I am probably going to be saying over and over in my head "Why the f*ck did I sign up for this??!!" Oh well, at least I can look forward to knocking back a few $9.00 beers at the Tribe game later that night.

Happy Monday

I do believe that the quickest way to get over something is to be in front of a toliet, crying, and throwing up. It hurts but it also makes you want to eventually look up, wonder "Why?", slowly lift yourself up and move on.

Happy Monday!

These Boys Got Some Stellar Game...

My friends have some flippin cutie pie kids. I hope this trend hold true for me, but considering the way that I make fun of other people (esp. those that I can detect any sort of visible weakness on), I may be screwed. Oh well, we shall see what the cards hold for me one day.

Luke and Anthony (or A-Train as I have dubbed him) are working their magic above.

Marching Upward & Onward

I must admit that I am pretty happy to see March leave. My final assessment on this last day of the month is that this span of days we know as "March" came in and marched the fuck all over me. It has been a month of changes that have come in the form of love ,confusion, more free time, anger, more time to be consumed with unwanted desires and “what ifs” then I ever thought possible, emotional stomach sucker punching, success, self-realization, conquering my doubts, having doubts and then being semi-I think I might be okay with my doubts --- what a fucking month. However, I sit here on this last day of the month finally with a form of clarity that I have not had in quite some time. I am good and going to keep being good. That is the way it is gonna be. My parents and I always joked that in grade school, which was k-8th for the private school brat that I was, my grades would be good one year and not so good to border line horrible the next year. I am hoping that trend stays true with months for me because a much needed positive month would be aces right about tomorrow.

What is Next?

This week I was able to make a some headway in thinking about my future and what choices I would maybe like to pursue after classes are over in May. In an odd choice, I decided to possibly take the GRE. I was lucky and did not have to take this test to attend graduate school at CSU. However, I know that if I want to pursue other degree options, I will need to take this exam- most likely the general and subject portions of the exam. I am generally a poor test taker so I know I have my work cut out for me. Been revisting some dusty books I have on my shelves and also utilizing the practice tests online. Not sure what I am tinkering with getting myself into but it looks like I will find out...

A Shot Out To Some Of My Peeps...

Just givin some random Tuesday high fives to some of the fine folks I school around with...

Alicia & Johnny: High five on getting the condo all boxed up (well, for the most part, in understand), decluttered, and ready to rockin roll. I wish you many prospective buyers that pop in to take a looky look.

Jenn L: High five on livin it up in Vegas. Who cares if you dropped more benjamins than planned. You had a blast and that is all that matters. You also can now sport a "Vegas, Baby" tank top. Not too shabby.

Jen D: High five on keeping in good spirits despite the bum ankle. I am very impressed with your mental attitude and stationary bike discipline (everyone knows that thing can be a bear to straddle and take for a ride).

Brian and Teresa: High five on progressing nicely with the baby plan. Keep me posted and all good maternal thoughts are with you.

Becky: I know you are out there working your buns off puttin in those long days and with the weather getting nicer that has to be even more of a challenge. Keep doin what your doin, old roommate.

Liz & David: High five for entertaining me on Friday with great conversation and drinks. We need to hang more often.

Gina: High five for keepin me laughin on Friday and Saturday. Great job conquering the Irish Wakes and Miller Lites with me.

Andrea: High five for being the "Big $5" sideboard winner. I think you are stellar and awesome. Stay away from tools that say, "A pain in the ass during the week and a pain in the ass during the weekend"

Get some other peeps later, go to jet for now. Enjoy your evening!

Saturday Fundraiser & Shootin Pool!

Pocket that striped ball, Roxy!

Big sideboard winers, Andrea & Gina!!



This past Saturday I had fun at a fundraiser (I know, I am captain redundancy this morning!) and shooting pool/dancing at The Blue Moose! Lately I have become quite the fundraiser whore, but what can I say? I like to give to charity and oh yeah, get a lot of beer for one flat price. : )

Get Your Drink on at Sullivans!

Thumbs up for Sullivans and for Clams!

Say cheese!

Clams on the wall!

Here is to good friends and good drinks!

A toast to Bass!

Read that book, David and Gina!

Drunk readin makes for an interesting comprehension!
Liz and me getting our drinks on!

I love Sullivans Bar in Lakewood. Really no way around denying that it is a great place. It is a laid back bar in the midst of many other bars in Lakewood that are filled with the hooched up younger crowd that prefers tank tops, dancing and loud music above all else.

I prefer Sullivans because it is a great place just to chill with friends. A steady stream of not too overpowering Irish tunes keeps you in good spirits while you enjoy tasty treats and a good selection of drinks (not all the drinks are of the Irish nature too!). They have one drink in particular that is my personal poison. It is called "The Irish Wake". Not sure what the hell is in it but it tastes a lot like grapefruit juice and can knock you into a state of tipsiness faster than any fruity drink I have ever come into contact with. It does have the steep price of $12 (half price on Thursdays!). But I feel it is well worth it. Even better when your good friends pick up the tab for yours! Thanks again Liz and David! You are aces!

Just to Prove

Some are a little shocked that I attempted skiing (well the very tiny bunny slope, that is) and did not kill myself. I guess I can't blame them since I have been known to take a tumble when doing anything more than walking and chewing gum. How have I survived 7 marathons without a slam into the ground??!!? I, the rest of my friends, and God,are still pondering that one. Here is proof. Although the pict does not show me in action (if you can call the sloooooow speed I was going at "in action").

Jumping off the Adverb, Adjective and Prepostion Train...

Just after spring break is a tough time to get students back into the swing of being alert and disciplined students. After handing in their essays on their favorite character in "Dead Poets" Society, I decided to implement a little Dale Carnegie reading into the curriculum. I think that they, as a whole, responded quite well. Perhaps those that fall back on the argument of "How does this crap actually apply to what I want to do in life?!?", will temporarily change their tune.

This one is for you, K.T.

Wow, it has been six years this May since I graduated from Mount. Yikes! Sometimes it seems like only yesterday that Becky, Jen, Holly and I were getting in water fights (why the hell did we ever think it was cool to throw large amounts of liquid in our rooms at one another anyway?? But it was a hoot at the time) and also playing "hide the cheeseburger (yes, it actually is as bizarre and twisted as it sounds). Other times, when I think of the things that I have accomplished over the last six years (places of employment, additional degrees, car, moving out) it seems like a lot longer. However, I think that now, very appropriately, is a good time for me to look back and reflect on what I felt and what I gained from the last month and 1/2 of college.

When I knew the end was near, I started a paperclip chain. Much like Jen's dad had done in anticipation of retirement from the police force. Sure it was more than a little queer but it also helped me to put into perspective the amount of time that was slowly, but steadily slippin through my fingers. They started to come off one by one until I had a bigger and bigger pile. It started to freak me out.

I knew I wanted to attend grad school, I had a few options lined up but nothing was for sure and money was also a concern. I began to contemplate my full-time/part-time school working circumstances. All these "big girl" thoughts were racing through my head as I still tried hardly to enjoy myself and everything around me since I knew it would soon be changing very fast. where the hell did the time go from September to late March?? I had no idea and the more I tried to hold on to it, the more it kept slipping through my fingers.

However, those last few weeks of college were great (minus the cap and gown incident. If you have not heard that story, hit me up sometime, it is a good one!) And I spent the time really enjoying the people and environment around me. I realized although I said I would keep in touch with many, there would be few that I actually would hold true with on that promise. So I dedicated myself to getting my fill of those people, if, unfortunately, we never crossed paths again.

I also learned to appreciate the work I did as a scholarly student (although sometimes that attitude slipped due to watching Dawson's Creek or having our screaming contests. Yes, we actually used to see who could wale the loudest in our dorm rooms.) I stressed about my SCE (senior culminating experience) but learned to relax and appreciate all the hard work I did when it was over. I had more confidence in my abilities after that event and after evaluating my progress as a student.

Running is whole different facet. I learned to truly appreciate the companionship that being on a team allows and I also gained respect for the value of a hard and honest workout. Things that have slipped a little (obviously so in my post-collegiate weight gain). All in all, my cross country and track days were filled with irreplaceable laughter.

If I had to go back to that time in my life again I would not change a thing because I know that I took the time to really appreciate it as I was going through it. I knew that time for responsibility and commitments was going to be fast approaching so I seized and held on to dear life for my last hurrah as a college kid.

As for my life now, I have few complaints. Seems like every phase of your life brings new challenges but it also brings new forms of happiness and excitement.

Enjoy wherever you may be. : )

The Great Weather Deceiver

In Philosophy class at Mount, Jen and I used to always joke about "the evil deceiver". Primarily just because the terminology is fun to say. I have to admit that the weather recently has been that of a great deceiver.

When I went for a run outside today I sported shorts, a long sleeve t-shirt and and jacket. Judging from the amount of sunshine that I observed from the quick peek out my balcony this afternoon I thought that I would be dressed appropriately. The low to mid 30s optical illusion climate fooled me and I was a bit chilly during my 5 mile run. Oh well, I at best be doing some accurate checking on the weather situation before I venture out next time!

Good Times

One things ends and another thing begins..... : )

Sunday Afternoon Reflections...

Did not get much of a chance to tackle this on Sunday due to formatting lesson plans, having a long drawn out im session and feeling like crap so I am starting it up again while my students are doing some group work.

Got a chance to do alot of thinking since Saturday night. Unfortunately, not by my own choice, I am single again. Really did not see this one coming and from what I believe from my ex I am starting to wrap my head around the idea that this was not planned. Still hurts pretty bad, none the less but I know that alot of others have been through far worse and in the grand scheme of things, less than 5 months is just a drop of water in the bucket.

Perhaps this is my own fault for not be cautious enough. Usually I am with so many areas of life. I would even say overly cautious, worrying about things that are beyond my control. I know that many would say just to go with it when you are in a relationship but I wish that I would've kept a better hold on my heart as things progresses. Oh well, classic, especially girl mistake. Right?

Now toying with the option of being friends. I wonder if that is really going to work? Have any of you had experience with this area? I know I feel pretty confused and upset right now so I have my doubts. I know what I want and I know what my ex wants, in examining those desires we are far away, at least at this time, from meeting somewhere in the middle.

I promised myself that I would use this time to get some stuff in order with my life. Do some thinking and try to rebuild in areas where I know I have suffered recently. We shall see how that goes because right now I am pretty distracted. I guess give me a day or so longer to climb back on that horse.

I'm Back!

Sorry everyone! I know that it has been a loooong time since my last update! Really I have no excuse besides the fact that my computer and password was giving me beef so I was unable to log on. WTF??

Anywho, as many of you know, my time with McDonald Investments has ended so now I am enjoying a little well deserved free time while I soak up a bit of severance and do the teaching gigs at Tri-C and Bryant & Stratton. Personal life is also going quite well too. I learned that having the great "religion talk" can be a bit uncomfortable when you are in a relationship but keeping a calm attitude and open perspective can do wonders. With the weather warming up (wahoo!!! Heat wave in the 30s!!) my running has also improved. No desire to do a marathon this spring but toying with the idea of a half in April or May. We shall see.

Hope everyone else is well! Maybe I will catch up with you at The Jaycees St. Pat's Party on Saturday!

Pssst.... I will be the drunk one in green by the bar!!

Little disgusting tasting white and purple conversation hearts and all...

God bless the snow around here. Yes, I might be the only one making that claim but the weather did do me a huge favor last night. With my evening class being canceled at Bryant & Stratton last night I got a the chance to meet my sweetie in Sandusky (about half way for both of us)for dinner and a drink. In all honestly, the roads were alot better than I anticipated. There was barely any traffic (since most freaks were off work or business opted to close)and with the exception of 480 westbound and the neglect to plow 2 of the lanes, the rest of the trip was smooth but cautious sailing. An air high five to ODOT and their clearing of the turnpike. I was pleasantly surprised. However, here are some random thoughts I have concerning winter weather/transportation:

1> That is great that you have a sweet sports car. It really does not make me want to screw you but I am glad that it works for you and your image. I am sure that it looks mighty sleek and sexy in May-Oct. However, you live in the north, more specifically Ohio (the side that favored the bearded top hat wearing man in The Civil War) and your car blows when attempting to handle the slightest bit of snow or ice. I kind of hope that you do not injure yourself, but more importantly, I really wish that you would get over to the outside lane or not bother going out on days like this so I will not be delayed as I attempt to drive my car. You know, the type that can handle this particular weather.

2> It was around 60 degrees the entire month of December. Why the f*ck are you so bitter about getting the cold weather/snow and junk now?

3> Schools will be closed when the weather is cold or there is lots of snow. This is a fact. You cannot fight this fact. With that said, those that are teachers should not brag it up about their opportunity to stay in pjs all day, if the choose and those that are not involved in education should abstain from getting angry or making half-assed comments. Chances are you will have to go into work while they are turning over on their warm pillow but there is the greater probability that you make more income than they do. Both parties, sleep and dough, can chew on those apples and like it!

Woke up this morning, walked into my living room/dining area (for those of you that know the compact state of my pad) and noticed the beautiful rose bouquet on my table. Made this freakin frigid Thursday morning that much better. : )

What did the rest of you super stars do for V-Day? Anything hot and steamy?

Going To Miss My Cat

We had to put my childhood cat, Napoleon, to sleep on Friday afternoon. I must say, that was one of the hardest things that I ever had to see. I guess I have been pretty lucky and led a fairly tragedy free life to say admit that about myself. I got a sobbing call from my mom after my last class on Friday afternoon. I was grateful that she got a hold of me then because another hour later I would have been on the road and gone for the weekend (although I still, without a doubt, would've turned around and headed home after whenever getting the call).

The cat had a stroke which left him pretty much paralyzed on one side of his body and was also spitting up alot of fluid. About two years ago he was having some heart and breathing issues. A few nights of oxygen at the vet and expensive medications later, he was doing better, actually thriving with being peppy and all. My parents, God bless their generous spirit, had bought us a little more time with him. I knew eventually the time would come soon since he was sixteen (80 years in cat time), but I have not cried that long or hard in quiet some time. Being there while he was given the injection probably did not help me much either but I wanted to make sure he was not scared and did not feel alone. That cat was a huge part of my childhood through adulthood.

That cat was one tough SOB. In fact, took two injections to put his already weak heart to rest. I will always remember him beating the crap out of the dog and purring to give you comfort. He also had a pretty tough tail/pain tolerance since my brother and I accidentally almost took his tail off twice in house doors. My dad is without a doubt going to miss him tons. He was hesitant to get him since he was never a cat person but Napoleon was smart and knew to kiss up to my dad and make friends with him first. He was his napping and table scraps buddy. At the vet I saw my dad cry harder than when he buried his own father 3 months ago. I hope they do get another cat but I think they will hold off for a little while.

Thanks Napoleon, I couldn't have asked for a better cat!

More About My Small Skiing Adventure...

After I got the right fit for my boots and got them snapped into my skis (I seemed to have some initial difficulty with this) I was ready to tackle to smallest mound (AKA the bunny slope). The first challenge was getting up on the tow rope. No one told me that the tactic behind this was to get the plastic pulling device attached to the rope snuggly on your back so it could do all the work. I, unfamiliar with the entire process, instead opted to hold onto the plastic wedge for dear life as it slowly tugged me up the slope, all the while trying to remember Michelle's words of "Try not to cross your skis!". By the time I got up my arms were still tense and I was sweating more but at least I was up the little hill. Everyone in my group then proceeded to tell me that it was time to go back down. My response was "Are you f*cking kidding me?"

Adventures of a first time skier

As Joanne so eloquently hinted at, leave it up to me to date, of all people, a ski pro. Yeap, I have to laugh at the irony of this because as most everyone knows, I lack a basic necessity of balance. However, I decided that you should probably try to give everything a shot, even if just once. More to come....

The good news is that I did not end up in a body cast! Many guessed that would be my fate. Yes, skiing is hard, but I also learned that my attitude would control either the success or failure that I had on the slopes that night. For instance, at the top of a bigger hill (and by bigger I mean slightly larger than the bunny slope) during my second attempt I was starting to get way aggravated. Which warranted the pretty appropriate responses of "Thank God this was not our first date or I do not think there would've been a second" and "Are you ready, bitchy pants?". Those remarks didn't help at the time but they did, eventually, put things into perspective....

The Confession of A Dork...

Did you ever have the thought that maybe you were hanging in acquaintance with someone that was way cooler than you? Me, being both a closet and upfront nerd, am contemplating this arrangement...

State of the Confusion

Bush showcasing a black basketball dude and not only mentioning that AIDS exists but that he also plans on delegating more funding for research. Too late, W, you have lost the house and senate.

Snow Blues

I know, I should be happy that we have been spoiled this long without the white stuff but running in the snow just plain blows. I was slippin and sliding all over town tonight. How I long for the days of 55 degree December days once again...

So Much Better Than....

Last week. Things are turning around, folks! Full speed ahead!

WORDS THAT I NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD SAY..

Come on Monday. Where the fuck are you? After this week I really do not think that anymore can be thrown at me. I guess I also have two choices; to be a total bitch and never trust people or to carry on with a positive attitude. Aiming for the second my friends. Aiming for the second.

"I keep a close watch on this heart of mine. I keep my eyes wide open all the time..."

Sweet Realization

I, like I believe many others, operate under the belief that the most powerful words in human nature are "I love you" or "I am sorry". However, I think that "What f*ck was I thinking?" or "Why the f*ck did I ever waste all my time with that?" are my two new front runners. Thank you clarity. Your are my new best friend.

Things I Hope you don't get while at The Chuck E. Cheese today...

Someone near and dear to me is paying homage to the favorite place for kids to gather. This was my list of warnings...

1.) Pink eye from the giant colorful plastic ball pit-o-fun

2.) The urge to dress up like big scary furry mouse in public venues

3.) The craving to quite your current life pursuits & become a professional skee-ball player

4.) The desire to adopt 50 screaming kids in the next 25 days

5.) An uncontrollable appetite craving for super duper greasy cheese pizza that has crust which resembles cardboard

6.) A tendency to pay for sex with "tickets"

7.) An intense sugar high that you cannot come down from

***Okay, that's all I got. I hope you had fun!!!!!

And To All A Happy New Year's Eve!

I hope that everyone has a happy and safe New Year's Eve! Looks like it is going to be a little rainy in my neck of the woods tonight so please travel carefully!

"We May Be Through With The Past, But The Past Ain't Through With Us"

That is probably my all time favorite quote. One used by P.T. Anderson in Magnolia. It poses an interesting question. It also brings up the great debate if a particular person is responsible for actions or if the blame lays in the past and all the other elements that make it up such as other people, events or circumstances. However, how should a person handle events from a person's past when they could possibly affect the future? When the past keeps creeping into the present and future, how can progress be attained? Case in point, is it possible to build a new and stable relationship if one of the partners has an ex that is still in he picture? Not that they are together anymore but that other person, whether through insults or the hope of building a "friendship" once again, is still functioning as the many times invisible third person within a relationship.

Any thoughts? My vote is for three is a crowd. Someone needs to bow out gracefully as The Spinners put it.

How Dare I Forget!

I got the tat in 2006! Small but meaningful, I finally did what I said I was going to do for years! I know, not as big as Liz and Brian's but I still like it lots.

Thanks, 2006

In t minus nine days I hit a milestone anniversary so with that in mind I decided to write a little about how this past year has changed my life in so many ways. Every year around this time, I like many, begin to feel nostalgic. I know I even did this last year around the same time when I listed both the good and bad things that 2005 taught me. Some of those lessons I kept with me long into 2006 and others were forgotten just as fast as the time it took me to post the entry on my blog.

My students are taking their final now so I am going to use this time to recap. I am not going to sugar coat it but instead can the metaphorical talk and discuss the facts that made 2006 one of the best years of my life.

Lost a grandfather in Oct. A man that I was never really close to as I got older but seeing him pass made me wish I would've made more of an attempt and maybe learned to let go of some of the ill feelings that prohibited me from really getting to know him as a person. Also made me realize that I am getting older and hit me with the reality that all the blood grandparents are now gone.

In Sept. I found out that I will be loosing my job at McDonald Investments. Those that know me know that I have bitched alot about work since switching departments. However, like I have said before, you would like to leave it instead of it leaving you. Going to miss most the people I work with alot. However, this gives me even more incentive to truly value the effort and necessity to keep in touch through whatever means possible.

I ran the Boston Marathon in April. My goal as an amateur runner became a reality in the day after Easter Sunday. Honestly, I never thought I would even qualify but thanks to Lynn pacing a heavier than average female distance runner I hit the qualifying standard in Columbus. Do to an injury it was a painful bitch but it showed me that mind over matter really does exist. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. I did it and I am so glad I sacrificed Easter with the family, money I did not have, and missing work during busy tax season to see every highlight of the greater Boston area on foot. I have never felt such a high in my life.

My friendships this year with my really close friends going into 2006 did one of two things. They either became extremely closer or took a nose dive into strained or non-existent. Most however, were not really affected because we tend to not be intensely close emotionally, which I learned, works best with some pairs of people. Those that I thought would never leave my side did and those that I thought would drop me so quick it would make my head spin stuck by my through my darkest and most honest hour.

I discovered that teaching is what I believe to be my calling at this point in my life. That may change in a few months or years but as for now I enjoy it and really get so much back from it. Looking forward to doing it full time in a few weeks.

New romantic relationships helped to solidify the person that I always knew I was. Tried to taking crushing, lusting and anger and confusion all in stride although at times it was a struggle. At the start of a new one now and so far smooth sailing. I learned from what did not work a few months ago. But with this one, everything seems alot easier and I realize now how important laughter and friendship are as a base for something more.

Come on 2007, bring it on. Looking forward to it with eyes wide open.

GRRRRRRR!!!!!

F - You BCS & the horse that you rode in on.

The Importance of Manners...

I have always been a big advocate of having manners around people. Sometimes during the observations of my personal behaviors or those around me, I am pleased and other times I know that I as well as others need to work a little harder. I have learned over the years that manners is extremely vital when dealing with meeting someone for the first time.

I recently reread a book about first impressions and how vital they are to establishing yourself to others. No matter how you conduct yourself in other meetings, it is nearly impossible to redeem yourself if you have a less than desirable first meeting. With that said, always try to be gracious and pleasant when meeting a significant other or acquaintance of a friend. Even if you are not in the best of moods, try to at least fake being interested or semi-happiness. If not, I guarantee that your friends will dub you as "that person who makes bad first impressions." Trust me, that is a title that you do not want to lay claim to. Nuff said. To those that make a commitment to making positive first impressions, keep up the good work!

I Said It And I Am Not Going To Eat My Words....

I have been having the best month ever. Michigan will beat Ohio State on Saturday afternoon.

Can I Get A Jump up High Five?

Wow, I have had some really good past few weeks. Yes, there have been a few hicups in between with deaths and other life issues but for the most part, I am not complaining. In the words of Jen D commenting on one of my recent turns of good fortune: "Woah. You scored big time." Just takin it as it comes. Lets hope it keep on a comin. Word. Did I mention that Michelle hooked me up with some fly new sofas (well, slightly used but heck they were free!). Yeap, life is good.

Come On

I want to watch a new episode of 30 Rock tonight. I do not want to watch two consecutive hours of The Biggest Lard Ass. I do not care how over weight you were and how much weight you have lost on the show while receiving your 14 mins and 30 seconds of fame. Seriously, you and your massive sweating while attempting to do pushups and whining over small portions bores me to tears. NBC, you blow tonight.

Things That My Friends & Family Will Always Playfully Torture Me About, Yet I Have Learned To Accept...

~ I am a Univ. Of Michigan fan living in Ohio. No, I never went to school there or even lived a long period of time within Michigan state lines. However, I have been a fan through good and bad seasons (honestly, can some of you Buck fans own up to that during the Cooper rein of misery?)

~ I am a blonde dyslexic that has no sense of direction. I am bad with directions, I know that and that is why I love mapquest.

~ I am always late. Tell me to be there early then I will try hard to get there on time. I am working on it. Ask Alicia, a few incidents recently had me slightly early or right on time.

~ I love ranch dressing. I could put this dressing goodness on everything just short of cold cereal. To me it is as vital as water. I do give it once a year during Lent just to let myself know that I can and that I do not need a support group just yet.

~ I like to stay up late. This causes me to be the bitch from hell when I have to get up early the next morning but I never think about that till the morning calls.

Thanks Liz! Race Recap Is A Great Idea! But First & Foremost....

PLEASE VOTE DEMOCRAT TODAY!!!

Borrowed from my bud Steve's blog. Love ya Steve! http://edgehos.blogspot.com/

If you vote Republican today in any way, shape or form:

~ you suck
~ you make the world suck
~ you're a millionaire--congratulations!
~ you enjoy snorting meth AND banging gay hookers AND pushing for anit-gay marriage legistation
~ you somehow don't think this country we all love hasn't gotten completely away from us and into corporate interests and completey amoral and incompetent leadership and that our youngest and poorest boys aren't dying needlessly in a desert and I generally hope you get restless leg syndrome for the rest of your life.

Need To Update

I know, I know. Got any ideas?