Sunday, December 31, 2006

Here's to another great year

Wow - I can't believe the last day of 2006 is here. Like I always write, where does the time go?

Costa Rica was a wonderful getaway. We really didn't do much. Lay out by the beach. Read a few books. Eat Mom's great cooking (and some not so great food at nearby restaurants). Open Christmas presents. Take lots of pictures. Canopy in the rain forest. Drive for hours and hours. I just really enjoyed spending time with my family! And I can't wait to do it again! Pictures will be posted in the new year (most likely).

Joe and I have been laying low since we got home on Friday afternoon. We saw Dreamgirls with Marc and Darryl on Friday. Afterwards we ate a late lunch/early dinner at Barnaby's, went to the grocery store and rented a documentary about Tupac and Big E.

Yesterday I had to work, but fortunately we weren't crazy busy and we already hit our target so the mood in the office was relaxed and happy! I do have to see one day post-ops today but it should only take about an hour or so.

I am also happy that although my butt and back have really made me hesitant about working out so I haven't been, I haven't gained any weight, either. In fact, the 132.4 lbs I weighed this morning is the lightest I have been in a long time! This supports my theory that your body like a certain weight and will keep it around there, as long as you are in some kind of shape and not eating everything in sight. I would like the eat more healthfully in 2007 and lose a few pounds - or really lose a few inches - which is one of my goals for the new year.

That's all for now. I am going to try to post some more before the day's over.

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Our casa next week

We are staying at this place in Flamingo Beach, Costa Rica. It looks awesome!

Early morning run

I still love working out in the mornings...when I actually get up. Matt, our noisy neighbor, was having a party last night so we didn't get to sleep as early as we usually do. Then he had people over starting at 4 AM (or at least that's when they woke us up!), so my sleep last night was spotty, to say the least. Joe got up around 5:30 and I was going to try to sleep until 6:30 but my guilt and the noise was too much. So I ran from the house for about 30 minutes. The sun is not quite up yet so I am probably not being as safe as I should, but I run in well-lit, well-trafficked areas so I was ok.

I also hate when I can't think of good come backs until 5 minutes later. A couple of partiers were on Matt's balcony smoking and the guy was like "you're making me feel uphealthy," when he saw me coming in from the run. I should have been like "I'm sure smoking cigarettes at 6 in the morning adds at least 10 years to your life" instead of just nodding and saying "true." Stupid!

We really should start calling the po-po more often, especially on school night!

Tonight I have a happy hour with my Met friends at Cafe le Jadeite. And tomorrow is Kurt and Mike's party. And we leave for Costa Rica Friday! I am looking forward to getting away!

Monday, December 18, 2006

Only 3.5 days left

until we leave for Costa Rica! Woo hoo - I am looking forward to getting out of dodge! I am pretty much done with our Christmas shopping - I may look for a few small things, but I really have what I need.

I can't believe the end of the year is almost here. Seems like we were just celebrating the new year a short while ago. I guess time flies when you're living your life!

Sunday, December 17, 2006

Out of shape


Goodness - I ran for an hour and a half today and I am tired! What a difference a year makes. Last year this time I would have been able to run this without a problem. This year, with my foot surgery and back problems, I am lucky to make it to the gym a few times a week! One of my goals for next year is to definitely get back into shape. I hate being out of breath when I have barely even run for 20 minutes!


We had James, Val and Lori over for dinner last night. After the initial awkwardness, we ended up having a good time. We took a picture for the family, which I am getting printed today. Gotta love the digital age!

Thursday, December 14, 2006

Bulging discs

Ugh - the discs in vertebrae L5 and S1 are bulging and the spine is pressing on them, which is causing my pain. I thought it was just an inflamed piriformis muscle, but it's so much more. My doc has me on the 3x/week program and I had my first visit yesterday. Right after I felt better, and they gave me a stretch to do, but I definitely will need more help before I am 100%. This totally stinks because I feel limited as far as exercise. I really haven't been able to do yoga very well because all those forward bends are really painful and I think kind of bad for it. But at least I have been running again. I am in such bad shape right now - I am just hoping I can make it for the half marathon in January. My plan is to run 1.5 hours on Sunday to at least build up some endurance before we leave for Costa Rica.

I had dinner at little Berry Hill with Matt and Rob last night while Joe was at the Galleria Christmas shopping and getting his hair done. That boy is almost more maintenance than me!

I am off to enjoy my morning until work starts at 10.

Monday, December 11, 2006

Monday off

I feel like it's been a long time since I've been off on a Monday. Which is a good thing because it means I've had regular weekends off as well. Today is a rainy and dreary day, which is good because it reflects my mood. I amy trying to finish my BPS Year in Pictures project, but am having trouble with the journalling. At least I have all day to work on it!

We are going to see the doctor tomorrow about my behind. I am hoping the MRIs turned out and he will be able to help. I have been in pain for over 2 months now - not fun!

Saturday, December 09, 2006

What a day

Today was supposed to be a productive Saturday off work. I was going to run, clean the house, have lunch with Marc and get my haircut. I guess 2 out of 4 is not bad. I got sidetracked when I lost my keys along the Bayou during my run. What I planned to be an hour long run turned into a 2 and a half mission to find those stupid keys. I never did. Luckily Kirt and Mike were home and helped me find a locksmith. Marc kept me company while the locksmith eventually picked our lock. I started my run at about 8:45 am. We didn't make it to lunch until almost 1:40pm. Needless to say, the rest of my day was just about as productive.

Oh well, such is life! We are having dinner at the Rues tonight. And luckily I have Monday off to be productive :)

Tuesday, December 05, 2006

Bad blogger

I feel like this week has been going on forever and it's only Tuesday. Ugh!

Our party was a success! We had too much dessert and not enough vodka (well, we had enough vodka, but we probably could have used more) but overall everyone enjoyed themselves. We literally had to move the party to Club Rue at 1 AM so that we wouldn't disturb the neighbors.

So the beginning of this week has been spent recovering from the weekend. I went to Joe's DC about the pain in my butt and am having an MRI done. He thinks the issue is with my lower lumbar nerve. I am just hoping he can help me. I have been in pain for over 2 months now. NOT a good situation.

I will be posting party pictures soon.

Saturday, December 02, 2006

Disaster averted

We are having the first party in our house tonight. Actually this is the first real party Joe and I have hosted alone since we've been together! So yesterday the heater broke (again). The original contractors who fixed it a few weeks ago had to order a part which wouldn't be here until Wednesday. So Joe was freaking out all afternoon yesterday, trying to figure out what to do. He was able to get a hold of Blaine, a friend of an ex-co-worker of Joe's, who happened to be in the neighborhood. Apparently he cleaned the motor, tapped it a little to keep the bearings from rattling, and it has been working ever since (knock on wood). Otherwise, it would have been a cold party!

This week we have been running around like crazy getting things ready. I forgot what goes into planning even a simple cocktail party. My decorating skills are sorely lacking, but we did buy a tree and I got a huge pink (of course) bow tree topper. Love it!

After seeing patients this morning it's off to finish up with last minute stuff. I am looking forward to seeing all of our friends tonight!

Thursday, November 30, 2006

Snapshots from NYC





It was a fabulous trip. Lots of good company, good eats and good fun. The highlight was definitely the Macy's parade on Thanksgiving. How can any other parade compare! I think of it like going on safari to Africa - the zoo kind of sucks after that! I am already ready for our next trip out there.

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Time goes by...

so quickly! Our NYC trip was fabulous as usual. The last night was almost my favorite - 70's themed tea dance at Splash with Lady Bunny spinning! I really didn't want to come home to reality. This week is going to be over soon and we are having an early holiday cocktail party on Saturday. So lots to do. More to come laters.

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Where does time go?

I can't wait for Thanksgiving! We are off to NYC tonight! Woo hoo! Let's just get through this day and we'll be ok :)

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

Makes me happy


I know it's a material thing. And I do NOT need material things to really make me happy. But I am, if for a brief moment. I have been eyeing this bag for months and it finally went on sale at Saks so I ordered it! It is actually black IRL but the photo shows up dark brown. I love the smell of new leather!

On a more sober note, the brother of Marc, one of my closest friends, is in the hospital with acute respiratory syndrome after a major motorcycle accident. We are keeping him in our thoughts and hoping for the best. Life stinks, sometimes.

Monday, November 13, 2006

A clean workspace


I finally cleaned off our desk today. We were swimming under a sea of paper and adhesive! I should have taken a before picture but I prefer the after. I just have such bad habit of collecting clutter - I have really been trying to work on it, but old habits die hard.

I have enjoyed the day off. Only 9 more days until we leave for NYC! Can't wait!

Sunday, November 12, 2006

A day of shopping

Instead of the wasting the sunny afternoon partying at Berry Hill, we spent it and our cash at the Galleria. I hadn't been for a while so I enjoyed walking around and seeing what's in stores. I got this cute top from Barney's Co-op (on sale of course) that, with the right support, accentuates two good features ;)! I also got a Project Red shirt from the Gap (inspi(red)) and a cute Nike track jacket from Nordstrom's (also on sale).

We started as 4 - Richie, Bo-Marc, Marc and me. We ended as 2 - me and Marc - the last shopper's standing! Marc and I also enjoyed a late lunch at the cafe in Nordstrom's. All and all a very good afternoon with my peeps.

I am glad I have tomorrow off so I can regroup for the next week. Work was busier than it had been for a long time, and I have a feeling it's going to keep being busy until some time next year. Which is a good thing, cause Momma needs her bonus $$ for Christmas!

Can't wait for my baby to come home!

Friday, November 10, 2006

TIGF

Even though I have to work tomorrow, at last it's Friday. Joe is leaving for Phoenix this afternoon to visit his grandparents. He will be back Sunday evening. Tonight is game night at Marc and Darryl's and tomorrow the girls are going out for Peggy's belated bday. So I've got stuff to keep me occupied!

Work has been very busy this week which makes the day go by very quickly. I really would like to make our numbers this month so we have bonus Christmas money!!

Thursday, November 09, 2006

200th post!

Wow - time goes by when you're having fun - or life- or whatever you want to call it. Today went by in a whirl. Dr. W finally sent me to get some X-rays of my behind to see if there's more to it than what meets the eye. And work was crazy busy. It makes the day go by, but then it's over and where has it gone? Joe actually came in for an exam - we may zap his eyes!

Joe and I ate our staple meal tonight - turkey burgers with cranberry sauce. I took a photo, but I'm not in the mood to upload. Just a bit more surfin' for me and it's off to bed! I hate when it gets dark outside so quickly - just makes me want to hibernate.

Wednesday, November 08, 2006

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tonight's episode of Lost was amazing. I don't want to wait until 2/7/07 to see the rest!! (Yes I am going to have trouble sleeping tonight!)

Beautiful day

The sun is shining and the birds are chirping. Hard to believe it's the beginning of November.

Sak's is having a one-day sale and their Kooba bags are on sale. I may have to go check them out as I have been saving my moola!

Tuesday, November 07, 2006

This is the picture you get...


when your husband doesn't want to pose for a photo. Goofy faces. Hee hee - they make me smile!

What goes around comes around



I love this outfit that Jessica Simpson is wearing, but at the same time it cracks me up as well. Oversized sweaters and tight jeans - that's what I was wearing in college! I really feel old when fashion has already started to recycle. I mean, you're not supposed to wear something you have worn before, right?

I need to get back into my photo a day. I have been taking them but not as many as I should.

Back to the grind today....

Monday, November 06, 2006

Back online

Two and a half days of no internet is enough to drive a girl crazy! I guess I was more productive, but I don't really feel like it.

I am now enjoying the last hours of my Monday off. It's back to the grind tomorrow! More pictures to come later...

Friday, November 03, 2006

Let's sue the landlords


Brrrr...our heater is not working and the house is cold. Apparently the part we need will not be in until this coming Wednesday so we are going to have to suffer until then. I'm sure the outside weather will stay cold until then and then it will warm up again once it's fixed. Isn't that how it always works!

Doing this year in pictures thing is actually a little more difficult that I imagined. Some months we "did" more things than others so trying to find pics on the months without big events is hard. I was thinking about doing a different year from 2006 but this year I have really taken much more photos of normal stuff than any other year. And doing this photo a day is hard but I kind of like it - makes me think of what I would like to take a picture of!

Here I go to have some breakfast and try to warm up...

Thursday, November 02, 2006

New classes


I am such a geek. I have been waiting for my 2 big picture scrapboooking classes to start today. One is a journaling class and one is to make a year in review album of 12 layouts. I figured I could use one to compliment the other!

The BPS classes have definitely inspired me to scrap more. I am taking a yearlong one with Heidi Swapp next year and am REALLY looking forward to it. On 2peas, people have been complaining at the cost and lack of projects (it's essentially a yearlong class where we make a calendar), but I can honestly say if I took a class that had a project a week, I would probably never get them all done in my lifetime. I really wanted to take it to learn more about HS's creative mojo.

I guess it's time to get ready for work! Yesterday was a good day because it was the beginning of the month and not a crazy day. But also because I reminded myself that Happiness is a choice.

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

A typical evening

well, blogger isn't allowing me to post my picture so we'll try again tomorrow.

Happy November!

We only got 2 trick or treaters last night - a pair of Ninjas. Our neighborhood is not the most kid-friendly so I'm surprised we got even 2. Needless to say, we have tons of candy leftover that I need to take to work so I don't eat it all!

My a$$ is still hurting, but the little electrodes the doc put on it yesterday morning did help it feel better, if not for a little while. We may try acupuncture tomorrow morning...may prove to be interesting!

And I really need to stop using my a$$ as an excuse for not working out. He said riding the bike is ok, so I am going to the gym after work to ride for a bit.

Another month is beginning. I always feel like it's a fresh start. Hopefully the weather will stay cool now!

I would like to try the photo a day thing this month. And make a small 6x6 mini album of it. Entirely possible if I just keep the design simple. At the end of the month I will print out the photos and put the album together.

I don't know if I want to use this photo for the first of the month. But I love our house. It's small but cozy. Our first really big purchase. It reminds me how lucky we are to have a house to live in. How that even though we have a small space, it's all ours and we can do whatever we want with it. How nice it is to have tenants so that we don't have a real rent payment. How fortunate we are to have parents that are willing to invest in us so we have a very low interest rate! How having a bright blue house can always make me smile.

Laters :)

Tuesday, October 31, 2006

Happy Halloween


Here's another fun photos of my boys, Mike, Darryl, Marc, Richard and Matt. Aren't they cute!

I don't think we are going to be dressing up today, but I wonder if we'll get any trick or treaters. It would be fun but somehow I think all the kiddos will be going to the 'burbs for their goodies.

Monday, October 30, 2006

Pain..

in my a$$ still hurts. Going to the chiropractor hasn't really been helping and I am becoming more than frustrated. I haven't done yoga in almost a month! Taking advil helps, but it just masks the pain, which feels even worse when the drugs have worn off. Ugh - what to do!

Sunday, October 29, 2006

Halloween!




We had a great time last night - dressing up and partying at Mike and Kirt's as well as Blur. Of course I paid for it today in the form of a massive hangover, but it was worth it ;)!

Joe did his half ironman this morning, but I missed it since he woke up just barely an hour after I got home!

And I love when we gain an hour of time. I am going to bed very early tonight!

Thursday, October 26, 2006

Bad blogger

I have not been motivated to write lately. But I have been scrapping quite a bit. I got this KI Memories kit with lots of old but fun papers and made a girlfriends layout this morning. Thanks BH for the inspiration! Well, off to yet another fun day at work!

Tuesday, October 24, 2006

Brrrrrrr

it's chilly today! I am lovin' the fall like weather we are having here. Let's hope it stays for a while!

Monday, October 23, 2006

brrrrr...

the house is at 62 degrees right now. just a bit chilly.

Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Indecision

I have all these scrapping ideas in my head but none are coming to fruition. Scrapper's block in the sense that I know what I want to do, but I have been procrastinating doing them. I think the journaling is what keeps me back. I have things I want to say but don't know how to get them out. That's the main reason I blog. To keep my creative juices flowing. Now I just need to get them down on paper.

I want to do at least 2 mini-albums next year (I've already gotten too many things started and not finished this year so I don't want to start anything new.). One is of my friends, both past and present (well, mostly present - I guess I should say local and far away). Another is the songs of my life. I started listing them in an excel spreadsheet. And I already have almost 30 down! I could probably list more than 100 but I will try to keep it down to a minimum.

So now here is where the blog should start to help. I'd love to keep a little notebook, but who am I kidding? I hate writing and what's more, half the time I can't even read my own handwriting! If I can journal snippet as they come to my mind, I should be able to put the albums together more easily. So that's what I'm starting today.



My ultimate song is Just Like Heaven, by the Cure. 1987 was a great year for music. And it was a great year of my life. I was in my junior year of high school. I had my own established group of friends. We were all enjoying each other's company and not getting the college itch quite yet. My best friend Shaila and I still lived in the same state. And our friend Jennifer Clarke introduced us to New Wave music. Of course Kiss Me was probably one of the Cure's most commerically successful album and Just Like Heaven was played to death on the radio (and still is). But I still love it. It was our song.

Chase the blues away

The work blues that is. I always feel blah in the middle of the week when we have worked Tues-Sat the week before. Only 2 more days left...This month has been too slow and I think that makes me more tired. Couple that with a sore behind and laziness makes for a sluggish e!

I am running tomorrow - hopefully it will be cooler than it is now. The humidity is incredibly gross!

Lost and Project Runway tonight - yee haw!

Sunday, October 15, 2006

it's raining...



it's pouring today! I went for a quick run when I woke up and I got some sprinkles. Now it's coming down pretty hard. Joe went to UofH to swim and I have been working on Joey's gift for next week. We went to this place called Harry's for brunch since the line at Baby Barnaby's was nasty. I had a pretty good greek omelet. After a quick stop at Luke's and the Gap, we hit the g-store and came home, where I am now.

Quite a productive day, if I can say so myself. Sometimes I like to be silent and not have to talk at all, which is why I enjoy scrappin' so much during my time off. I like to concentrate on something, not someone, which is what I must do at work.

I'm off to enjoy the rainy weather.

Saturday, October 14, 2006

Saturday the 14th

Yesterday was definitely Friday the 13th. I just felt a weird vibe at work and anything that could go wrong did. Strange how that happens! So I hope today, being the day after, will be a little better.

Thursday, October 12, 2006

Obsessed

Season 3 started last week and I love it more than ever!! The characters have so much depth and the stories are just so interesting. This may be one of my all time favorite shows. (Besides Friends of course. But Friends is my escape --> mindless entertainment). I love all the possibilities each episode creates. Unfortunately only 4 more new episodes until they go on break for Christmas. Gotta savor each one!

Tuesday, October 10, 2006

The saga continues

...of the pulled gluteal muscle. My left cheek hurts and has been hurting for about a week now. I think I pulled something when we were chicken fighting last Sunday. Another thing that sucks about getting old - when something hurts, it hurts and takes longer to heal. I haven't been working out as much last week but it doesn't feel a whole lot better. Ugh!

Monday, October 09, 2006

Funny

I found this list while surfing and it cracked me up. :)

ZEN ADVICE
1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do notwalk ahead of me,for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either.Just pretty much leave me alone.

2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with abroken fan belt and leaky tire.

3. It's always darkest before dawn. So if you're goingto steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's the time to do it.

4. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced,you can't be promoted.

5. Always remember that you're unique. Just likeeveryone else.

6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

7. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, trymissing a couple of car payments.

8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk amile in their shoes.That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile awayand you have their shoes.

9. If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not foryou.

10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teachhim how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.

11. If you lend someone $20 and never see that personagain, it was probably worth it.

12. If you tell the truth, you don't have to rememberanything.

13. Some days you're the bug; some days you're thewindshield.

14. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

15. The quickest way to double your money is to foldit in half and put it back in your pocket.

16. A closed mouth gathers no foot.

17. Duct tape is like 'The Force'. It has a light sideand a dark side, and it holds the universe together.

18. There are two theories to arguing with women.Neither one works.

19. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much whenyour lips are moving.

20. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.

21. Never miss a good chance to shut up.

22. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleepingpill and a laxative on the same night.

Saturday, October 07, 2006

I can't wait...

for the weekend to begin! Saturday afternoon is already here. Where does the time go?

I am on a patent leather shoe kick. I got a pair of cute black heels with white trim when Ting was visiting (at Payless, can you believe it!). I bought a pair of black wedges at my favorite store, Tar-jay and then found a cute pair of red flats at Old Navy! None of them were over $20, so really 3 pairs of shoes for the price of one. Gotta love that.

I have also been working on a going away album for our friend Joey. He just spent the last month in Asia and will be starting a new job in NYC next month. We are having a dinner for him in 2 weeks so I need to get crackin'!

I have been in a scrappin' mood, so I'm off to scrap.

:)

Friday, October 06, 2006

P.S.

Last month I ordered some beauty products from Fresh, since they were on sale. I got some Verbena perfume for only $9. I'm glad it wasn't too pricey because I am not overfond of it, but I think I have found a new perfume love. They sent a ton of samples with my order - Love that! And my new favorite is Pink Jasmine. It smells clean and, well, Fresh! I may have to order a full bottle of that next time!

Where does the time go?

We lost our nice weather and I lost my bloggin' mojo :). Actually, work was pretty busy... well, not so much busy as long and dragging, but it still took up a lot of me weekend.

We spent Sunday by Kirt and Mike's pool - new friends who live a hop, skip and a jump away. I think I hurt a gluteal muscle when we were chicken fighting in the pool! I ran on Tuesday with Joe and Jim and did a workout with my girls from the Met and Mo on Thursday but I still hurt when I sit down and get up from sitting. NOT a good thing. So that's going to be my excuse for not exercising this weekend - my butt hurts!

At least this will be a 3 day weekend for me - woo hoo!

Lost is back on - LOVE it!

That's all of the randomness for now.

Thursday, September 28, 2006

Life is good

This has been a good week. Nothing really exciting going on. But I can't really complain. The blahs are gone. The weather is fantastic (for Houston). Work is...well, work, but nothing can change that. Whether I work here or there, until I win the lotto, it's just a necessity of life.

I just finished a layout about me, inspired by Elsie F. I am actually quite pleased with the result. Since it's already tucked away in our "All About Us" album in our Library of Memories (thanks, Stacy J!) I will probably not be inclined to scan it. But I'm happy knowing it's done.

This year I have really changed the way I scrap. My pages used to be all about the events or things we did. Since taking this BPS class I am scrapping people. What we do, love or see. I want to create more pages about the people I love. Sometimes I have morbid thoughts - what if something were to happen to me. Would so-and-so know how much they really meant to me? I want to get that down somewhere so that they know that yes, I did love them very much. My next project (and I have a million ideas running around in my little head - the execution is the hard part for me) will be to make a friends mini-album, with one of the 6x6 albums I have. The tiny size should be easier to work with, but I always have a problem with the initial design. Well, now I am going to let go of trying to be perfect (it never is anyways) and just have fun with it!

All for now. Back to the grind!

Monday, September 25, 2006

Perfect Day

When I went outside to go to SWAT this morning, I was surprised by how cool and dry it felt outside! Yes! Maybe summer is finally over!

Today the sky is perfectly blue with no clouds to be seen and the temperature is in a normal range. I don't even have to AC running very high and the house is staying cool. Let's hope the weather stays this way, if only for a few days! Today is definitely a day to appreciate living in H-town.

I am waiting for Joe to come home from the airport. He is back from visiting his parents is Maine.

Sunday, September 24, 2006

Yee-Haw!

So I finally went to the BRB (Brazos River Bottom) with Marc and Darryl last night. I really have been wanting to two-step, but Joe would never be caught dead in a place that didn't play a real beat (besides that he don't know how to 2-step). Marc was a good leader and we danced the night away! We went to dinner with Marc from Phoenix/LA (aka Bo(tox)-Marc or James), and Kirt and Mike, new friends with a pool who live a hop, skip and jump away. Brad and Andy wound up there as well as Gary, the ex-NFL player that Montrose Matt introduced us to.

I could only take about 3 hours of country music, but I must admit I did enjoy the dancing. I even enjoyed the boys dancing together - I think watching good dancers is always great, even if they are of the same sex!

Needless to say, this morning my head is hurting a little bit and I reek a little of smoke, but all in all we had a great night! I love this picture of our shoes - hee hee, looks like most of the boys at least attempted to go a little country! I also like that our jeans look like they are all the same wash!

Just a little more time to recuperate and then off to yoga - hopefully Yannis will be able to cleanse my system!

Saturday, September 23, 2006

10 days since I last posted??




So here are Ting and I at CKU and at dinner with my peeps at Cyclone Anayas. We had a great weekend - but who knew scrappin' 8 hours a day would be so exhausting!

This week has gone by in a blur - work is crazy busy with the end of the month. Joe is out of town this weekend visiting his parents. And I'm going 2-steppin' with Marc and my boys! Should be tons of fun!

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

Two more days...

unti Ting comes to visit! I am looking forward to hanging out, talking, and scrapping with her!

Note to self: talk lots and lots of pictures this weekend...

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Life is swell

I took my first scrapbooking class ever last night. It was fun, although would have been more fun if I could have dragged someone (most likely Ting) with me. Elsie Flannigan is too cute! We made an 8.5x11" chipboard album with page protectors. Lots of KI memories paper. I would like to finish it before CKU this weekend but we'll have to see.

On a less fun note, I am going to the dentist this morning and I am afraid I have a cavity or 2 - a couple teeth on my lower right jaw have been aching. Blah - NOT looking forward to it!

But another short week - Tinger comes in Thursday night and CKU over the weekend. Scrap scrap away!

Wednesday, September 06, 2006

Loving me a short week

I love when it's already Wednesday and the week is almost half over! We have an unusual luxury of having 3 weekends off in a row this month. Of course we have to work 2 in a row at the end, but that's future EE's problem ;)!

We are driving to Dallas this coming weekend for Joe's half Ironman. This seems like a piece of cake compared to Lake Placid! He wants to do in a pretty fast time - last year he did it in like 5'40" or 5'20" but this year I think he would like to do it in under 5 hours. We'll see how much all of his training has paid off.

Next weekend Tinger is coming to visit and we are going to CKU! It's so cheesy but seems like it would be a lot of fun. I am looking forward to it. Since I am taking next Friday off, I have a short week next week as well. Gotta love that too!

And what's been even better - I think the weather is starting to cool off. When I left work last night, the air was positively comfortable, for once in a long time. Life is good and the blahs have left.

Tuesday, September 05, 2006

What a great weekend

We didn't go out of town. We didn't go out to eat (very much). We didn't do much of anything but spend some QT together. And it was ALL GOOD.

We did a lot of working out: yoga, running, yoga, biking and more yoga. Three days of ashtanga in a row is a record for me. I thought about going this morning, but the bed was too comfortable.

We cooked a couple meals at home - 30 minute meals of course. And we did have fajitas at El Tiempo with Ken, Peg, Johnny, Chad and Amanda on Sunday night. But overall we had a very low key weekend. And I LOVED it.

Ken and Peg had everyone over at the pool yesterday. We had burgers, chicken and lots of fixins. Peg made some yummy Szechuan noodles - I will definitely have to try it out soon. And she made a yummy strawberry cheese dessert thing that I couldn't stop eating. Needless to say, we came home very full!

So, here's to a short work week - and looking forward to seeing Mom and Dad this coming weekend!

Friday, September 01, 2006

Is it fall already?

I always say how I can't believe how fast time goes by. I can't believe it's SEPTEMBER. I think alot of that stems from the fact that 92 degree weather during the day is still the norm here in H-town. So I still think summer is here.

I have signed up for SWAT on M/W/F and have gone twice this week. It's a good thing, although I hate getting ready when I cant' seem to cool down.

I am ready for a relaxing long weekend!

Wednesday, August 30, 2006

Feeling better

I dragged my a$$ out of bed at 5:10 this morning and made it to SWAT. They are charging $29 a month for it now, so I really need to commit to doing it. I am glad I went although driving there I was so sleepy!

I have been in a scrapping mood lately but don't know what to scrap....
But here are the last of my 35 random facts...I guess I could scrap these!
9. Sometimes I secretly wonder what it would feel like to be a buxm Barbie-type. I don't want to become one, but I want to know what all the fuss is about.
8. I tend to hoard things. If I find stationary I like, I don't want to use it because it's too nice. Likewise, I am finally starting to use my massive supply of supplies to scrap with. What else are they there for?
7. I have a thing for earlobes. The bigger the better. I like to squeeze them. Joe's are respectable.
6. I also have a thing for grooming other people (and by other people I mean Joe). I like to pluck his eyebrows and any random hairs he has growing. He used to hate it but I think it's growing on him.
5. I am the world's worst procrastinator.
4. I am a very fast reader. If I really like a book sometimes I devour it in one sitting. I think I finished The Da Vinci Code when we flew back from Cabo San Lucas. And I read one of the Harry Potter books on our way to Maui. Granted, they were long flights with nothing else to do, but still.
3. I dream about what I would do if I won the lotto. Of course, I never buy a ticket, but that doesn't stop me from dreaming (did I already write this one?).
2. I tend to fixate and obsess on things, which causes me to lose sleep. I need to learn to LET GO.
1. And FINALLY, although I am 35 I feel more like I'm 25. Why do we have to get older?!?!

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Blah

blah blah. That's how I have been feeling for the past couple days. I'm sure it has NOTHING to do with staying up late all weekend. And that's all I'm going to say about that!

Friday, August 25, 2006

Lazy Friday morning

Yannis had me practicing backbends for almost 15 minutes last night so my back is SORE this morning! Needless to say, I was unmotivated to do any working out. I kind of like having quiet mornings to tidy up the house, surf and blog.

We are having dinner with Ken&Peg and Alan&Patrick tonight. So I would like to get a little cardio in beforehand. Maybe at our lame work gym right after work. Or maybe not. {I think it's funny how I refer to about 80% of our friends in terms of couples, not like each person has their own identity!}

Thursday, August 24, 2006

SexyBack


I confess. I am loving JT's new single. It's a great dance song. Having it has the final song for So You Think You Can Dance helps as well. I can't wait to hear some cool remixes.

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Visitor this weekend

Our good friend Alan, who moved to London earlier this year, is coming back this weekend for a quick visit. His 20th (!!) high school reunion is the main excuse for coming back, but we know he just really misses us (not! I think he and Patrick are having too much fun over there.)

Here is a picture of us at his friends' Rob and Amy's apartment in New York circa 2001. Our first big trip to NYC. We are getting ready for dinner and then on to the Roxy! That was a go go go weekend. We visited the Statue of Liberty (my first time there in all the years I've been to New York visiting relatives), the floor of the NYSE (apparently a really big deal. Unfortunately Amy and I were a little to hung over to care!), and differently clubs every night we were there. Our favorites were the Roxy of course and Body and Soul, a Sunday afternoon party that played cool house music. Too bad it's no longer there (Body and Soul, not the Roxy).

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

Back from Arlington



I hung out with my optometry school peeps this past weekend: Ann, ReeDee and Annie. We also had a couple munchkins with us as well: Carrie (Ann's 6 week old) and Jett (Ree's 18 month old). We didn't do much. Ate some lunch. Hung out by the pool. Ate some more. Talked and talked. Put the kiddies down for their naps. Talked even more. Had pizza for dinner. Talked more. I can't believe we used to spend like 24-7 with each other and now we are lucky to see each other together once a year. And now, instead of taking pictures of my friends, I take pictures of their babies. With cuties like that, who wouldn't. I am starting to understand why parents take so many pictures of their kids. I took over 50 of these kiddos and they are not even mine!

However, the best part about someone else's kids is that you can give them back when you're done. Not so much when they are your own. That's why we don't have any yet ;).

Thursday, August 17, 2006

Exciting morning

So as I was leaving around 5 this morning to go to the gym (finally!), I hear glass breaking. I look and see some feet hanging out of the Jeep parked across the street. Then this skinny bearded homeless-looking guy with a backpack comes out and casually (but quickly) walks down the street. I am stunned. What to do? So I call Joe and he tells me to call the police. I dial 911 and a cop comes about 5 minutes later.

Turns out, the guy stole the neighbors' Sirius radio thing. Which is the same thing that got stolen out of Joe's car last week. That stinks! I don't know if they will catch him, but I feel better for reporting it.

I wonder if the neighbors were freaking out when they heard the police at their door. I know I would. You know nothing good is coming when the police comes round at 5 in the morning!

On a more light-hearted note, I ran intervals with Joe and Jim this morning. 6 800's. They were tough, but I ran faster than I anticipated. Next week Jim is going to do 4 1200's. Ugh - don't know if I'm ready for that! But I do feel better for running. My arms are just sore from yoga.

Going to see my girls this weekend - can't wait!

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

Benji won!

I kind of figured he would. He was definitely my favorite from the beginning. Who? Benji Schwimmer of So You Think You Can Dance! I am very sad the show is over. And even sadder that the tour is not coming to Houston! What a travesty!

Two days in a row

I am feeling slightly inspired. Lazy, but inspired. Scrapping fun, boot camp/gym no fun. I don't know why, but I just DO NOT feel like gettin up to work out these days. I am really enjoying yoga, which is good, but I really should be doing some more cardio. Just haven't been motivated to go. I like getting up early, because I then have time to surf. But the working out, not so much. I do run every other morning. But I really need to step it up - I am getting lazy! Next week, I promise...

Today looks like work is going to be slower than usual again. At least we filled all of our treatment spots!

More later...

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

Back to bloggin'

I feel like I have not been posting on a regular basis. I need to write more often, if not for the sheer sake of honing my writing and journalling skills. Who knows what inane moment of a day future EE would like to remember.

One funny little tidbit from yesterday: Joe has the slimmest hips of anyone I know, and doing all his Ironman training has slimmed him down even more. Needless to say, all of his shorts are very baggy on him. When we came home from the movies last night (World Trade Center, excellent, moving piece) I couldn't resist "pants-ing" hime: i.e. I pulled his shorts down while he was unlocking the gate. I only meant to pull down his shorts, but the boxer briefs came down as well - hee hee!! Luckily it was dark and no one was around, but we got a good chuckle from that one!

Joe and I have been trying to go to yoga more regularly now. Once I get into it, I really enjoy it. It's just getting my butt out there. A body in motion stays in motion, but a body at rest doesn't like to move!

Work has been very slow these last few days. I'm thinking it's cause summer is almost over and everyone is either on vacation or going back to school. I'm kind of liking the less hectic schedule. Might as well enjoy it while I can!

The air is incredibly humid today. I can never remember if it's always this way, because every year feels worse. Hopefully I'll still be blogging this time next year and can compare.

Joe is making dinner tonight and it smells yummy. More tomorrow!

Thursday, August 10, 2006

Obsessed

I go through phases where I obsess over scrapbooking (this is an ongoing one), lipsticks (haven't in a long time, though. I have enough make up to last a lifetime and I hardly even wear it!), clothes, shoes and handbags. The handbag one has just hit me again recently. I contemplated bidding on a KOOBA bag on ebay, but read a review saying most of the bags were fake. I would really like to have some nice, REAL bags, so I am saving $$ until the new year. After all Christmas gifts are bought I will splurge on a bag for myself. Maybe do this once a year. No more fakes! Have enough of those to last a lifetime as well! I have also been eyeing the Fendi Spy Bags, but unless they go on major sale, still out of my price range.

Saturday, August 05, 2006

Birthday time

Our cute little Marc is celebrating his birthday today! We will be having drinks at Absinthe and then who know where the party where lead...my guess would be South Beach.

I treasure all my friendships. Without them life would definitely be less interesting and less fulfilling. Marc is one of those friends who makes my life better. My life is more fun and full of joy because I can call him my friend. If you ever stumble across this, Miss Marc, I love ya!

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

Another month gone by

I can't believe it's August already. I would say that summer is almost over, but it's certainly not going to feel over for another few months here in H-town! I ran this morning for 30 minutes, and while my workout was not too strenuous by any means, I was drenched with sweat by the time I got home. That humidity will do it to you every time!

I've got so many thoughts in my head for scrapping projects that I am frozen into indecision. That's always my problem. Just gotta do it!

We made our goal for work last month - yay!! Momma needs the cash!

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Working and playing hard

Tomorrow is the last day of the month. We will be swamped, but hopefully everything will work out and bonus will be good - woo hoo! Then another 4 days until a 3 day weekend. I am really looking forward to that (Marc's bday weekend - uh oh!).

After work Joe and I met up with Marc, D, Matt, Rob, Richard, Darah and Danny. Everyone except Joe and Danny piled into a limo that took us to see Kelly Clarkson! Fun show. She has an amazing voice and I really enjoyed the songs I knew. Unfortunately being at the Woodlands Pavilion was really HOT and HUMID. Rob is a huge KC fan and he had the best time of all of us! And the limo is definitely the way to go - no traffic worries.

Needless to say, leaving Joe and Danny together for 5 hours in Montrose had us back to 2 drunk boys. I didn't stay out much longer after we got back and Joe came home about an hour later.

This morning I had to see patients for about 1 hour. Yoga was out of the question. I don't sleep very well after drinking any amount of alcohol. We met up for our usual brunch at little Berry Hill. This afternoon was spent in front of the TV - Madonna's I'm going to tell you a secret and Garden State. Both very entertaining.

I've been trying to motivate myself to scrap - I just don't know what yet.

Ting finished her race and seemed to be in good spirits. I am so proud of her!

The weekend (what little I had) is almost over - ugh. Just 5 more days to go...

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Post 151

Ting was asked to be a blogger for her race across the Atacama desert this week. I'm so glad because her posts have made me feel more connected to her and kept me updated on her progress. Poor thing, this race is really testing her limits but I know she can do it! Luckily the athletes can receive emails so I have been trying to mail her 2x per day. Hopefully the mail brings some smiles to her face!

I got some fun scrapbooking books yesterday! Ali, Elsie and the Me book. Yummy! I am very inspired to scrap, just have to find the time! Work, as predicted, has been fairly busy. It's a good thing, as the day goes by very quickly.

Joe cooked a yummy Rachael Ray meal last night. Hmmm, an Ironman and he cooks?? I think he's a keeper!

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Inspiration

Here is photos of my studly husband and sister. Joe running the last leg of his ironman.








Ting is doing a 150 mile 7 day race across the Atacama desert, in Chili. She just completed the 3rd leg. I've seen some beautiful pictures of the desert, but it looks like a tough race. She is one of the competitors who have a blog (!!) so I've been keeping up with her that way. She is awesome!

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Call me Ironwife!

Looks like blogger is having trouble with photo uploads, so I'll post them later. Joe did awesome in Lake Placid. He finished the swim in an amazing time of just over 1 hour. The bike took a little over 6 and the run about 4.5. So his overall time was about 11:42. He is so awesome and I am so proud of him for accomplishing this. Whew! Training time over!

Of course the trip home was from hell. We didn't leave Albany until 5. Our flight from Newark was supposed to leave at 8:30 but we didn't leave until 10:40 because our plane was delayed in from Florida. That sucked! I finished A Million Little Pieces, the controversial "memoir" during the delay and on the plane flight home. A pretty good book, even if most of it was a heavily embellished truch. I was entertained and even a little touched. Too bad though - it's hard to distinguish what really happened from the embellishments so you end you believing most of it is embellished.

Well, gotta get geared for work today - we are going to be crazy busy this week. Wish me luck!

Friday, July 21, 2006

Inspired

I love this photo of Joe. I took it during the water show at the Bellagio when we were in Vegas this February. He's such a beautiful man! {again, edited with PSE}

I have been in a scrapping mood but haven't scrapped it like 2 weeks!! After this trip I should be able to do some. We are actually getting out second room organized and I have lots of my stuff more accessible to me. We got a new desk from Ikea as well as a scrapbook cart from Container Store. I knew we should have bought 2 at the time, but I ordered another one on Tues so hopefully it will be here next week.

I am torn on whether to get PSE or Microsoft Digital Suite. I'm liking how to change the B+W photos with layers a la Elsie Flannigan, but I'm thinking there must be a way to do it on MDS as well. For now I am going to try to convert as many photos as I can with my trial version as I would like to get one of these for Christmas (that's a long time to wait!).

I like the days when we don't have treatments going on at work. Definitely less stressful, for whatever reason. Probably because there are not a million people in the office. Last day of less stress today! Next week is going to be CRAZY since we didn't have any procedures the last 3 days.

Am off to the post office this morning before work. I ordered the Elsie Polka Dot Stamps along with my a million memories monthly kit. Can't wait to play!

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Ironman here we come!


I dropped Joe at the airport bright and early this morning - his flight left at 6:58 am. I can't believe the BIG DAY is almost here! All his training for the past 7 months boil down to one day, this Sunday. I am so proud of him!

I even made it to the gym for 30 minutes of cardio. I don't know why I'm so unmotivated.

Other random thought for the day: my left wrist starting hurting some time yesterday. It still aches and I cannot put very much pressure on it (i.e. doing a push up would be very uncomfortable). I hope I just slept on it funny and it will get better on its own in the next few days.

2 more days and I'm off to Lake Placid as well. I am looking forward to being away from the city and in cooler weather.

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Lazy lazy

I have not been motivated to work out these past few months. Sleep is just too good. I can't remember the last time I went to the gym! Tomorrow I have to get up early to take Joe to the airport (Ironman this weekend!) so I will drag my a$$ there. Must. Go. To. Gym.

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

Arizona is HOT




We got a lot of sun, worked out, ate a lot of good food, drank a lot of wine and enjoyed some good company. The Sanctuary Spa at Camelback was nice but not 100% luxurious - our A/C was working overtime to keep the rooms liveable. My favorite part of the rooms were the Fresh toiletries. Brought lots of samples home! My first big trip with my Houston girls was a success - no huge dramas other than the usual "How are we going to get Amy to go to bed?"

We'll be planning another trip next year, hopefully to somewhere just a little bit cooler!

Friday, July 14, 2006

Having fun with PSE

This is silly me being inspired by Elsie with the self-portrait and photo editing in Photoshop. I uploaded a trial version and am having fun play with it, but I may ultimately get the newer version of Microsoft Digital Suite. I'll have to think about it. But look at the cool non-colors!

I am going to Phoenix this weekend with Peg, Trista, Amy, Laura, Wendy and LT. I'm hoping for a nice relaxing weekend with good conversations, reading by the pool, facials, eating good food and a lot of nothing. I definitely need to get away.

All for now. Be back in 3 days.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

Uninspired

My blogging has been like my work outs lately - few and far between. I have not been very inspired to write - which is surprising to me considering how much I have been obsessing over scrapping lately.

In the realm of baby news: my oldest, dearest friend Veronica Connor, who lives in AZ, recently adopted a baby girl from China. She looks so cute! And Shaila, of only wants one child philosophy, is preggers again!! 12 weeks already, with a little boy. I am so excited for them both. Gives me a little baby fever...

So to give me inspiration here are some questions to answer:
1. How old are you? 35 (ugh, hate that number!).
2. How many kids do you have if any? none, yet...
3. Are you married, single, divorced, widow,? Married.
4. What is your occupation? optometrist for lasik center. who wants to sell contacts and glasses??
5. What are your passions? scrapbooking; photography
6. Are you a dreamer or a dream seeker? dreamer - as is what i would do if i won the lotto, but i never buy a ticket!
7. Are you happy with the way you life has turned out? so far... yes. I still feel, however, there's lots more out there for me.
8. Are you a scrapper and if so how many hours a week do you scrap? yes and maybe 5-10 hours, if i'm lucky. it takes me a long time to do a single page as i usually don't have a plan until i sit down to scrap. i should work on that.
9. What do you want to do before you die? travel to more places I haven't been such as South America, Australia, more countries in Europe; become a mommy; become an auntie (on my side); eventually own more rental property; live in a bigger house; retire early!
10. What is your favorite food? hard one; i love all sorts of food, but my everyday go to is cold cereal.
11. What is the food you hate the most? black olives.
12. What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you? Cried in front of a patient. Mostly of anger and frustration and not at said patient, but couldn't stop them.
13. What is the happiest day of your life thus far? i am generally a happy person and would not like to pick just one.
14. Are you a neat freak? Or a dirty house cleaner? Joe wishes I were a neat freak, but unfortunately I fall under the latter category.

All for now! Going for a picture walk.

I am trying to upload a picture but it's not working correctly. Maybe later...

Sunday, July 09, 2006

MIA

I can't believe it's been over a week since I've blogged. Bad Blogger! The long weekend went by too quickly. We didn't get much done but had a good time - too good, probably.

Work is still stressing me out as usual. Not the actual work (although patients can wear me out) but thinking about scheduling and how it's all f**ked up and everything I have planned for vacation for the rest of the year is messed up. Although it is not stopping me from taking whatever trips I have planned, it's just more stressful to take them. I'm also a little stressed about going to see patients this morning. I'm a little afraid that in the confusion on who would be working with me today, NO ONE will show up. Hopefully it will work out.

I signed up for a class with Elsie the Monday before CKU so am excited about that. I think scrapping is what gives me most joy lately. That's a good thing.

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Only 32 hours

...of work left until a 4-day weekend!! Work kind of reminds me of school. It's not so bad once you are there, but thinking about it leaves me with dread. Not a good thing. I need to change my attitude. I think it's just that it's never ending. There is always going to be another month. Always another target to hit. Always more patients to see. Good and bad, I guess.

I haven't been blogging as much lately because I haven't had much to say. Still into the scrappin'! I need to find more WRMK linen albums. I love them. HL had lots and I should have bought more when they were half off. But they didn't have all the cool colors. We really need to organize our "office/guest room" as well. Hopefully we'll be getting a new desk soon.

I just joined Netflix, and I am enjoying it. Not having to go to the video store is a plus, as well as no late fees. I also like having a bunch of movies that I've already chosen and they send them one by one. My kind of store!

Saturday, June 24, 2006

Where does the time go?


Ting and I. About 27 years ago and now. We've definitely grown! And our love and affection for each other has grown as well. I love being able to say that my sister is one of my best friends in the world. She is so adorable. I just love how cute she looks in the older picture.

This Library of Memories class is really making me thinkof (obsess over) my photos and memories in a whole new perspective. I can't get enough.

I like that most of my photos are digital because they are easier to sift through, but I like scrapping with paper. So I need to print off way more pics. I'm liking the black and white conversion too because then, a la Cathy Z., I can pick any colors that strike my fancy. I am slowly making the conversion.

Well, it's off the work now. Save the fun for later.

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Scrapbook nerd

That's me. I am currently taking 2 classes at BPS: A Library of Memories and Product Playground. The first is more of an organization and re-think the way you scrapbook class. I really love it because I have been a chronological, event-based scrapbooker my whole life and I want to get more into my pages. The Why-factor. I still am having a hard time with the photos, though. Most pic I take are at "events" or "things" we do, but I think this class will help me focus on what other pictures I should or want to take.

The second class is about using your products in layouts. This is great for me because I have countless scrapbooking supplies but am loathe to use them (because they are so cute!). But the only reason I have them is to use them on scrapbook pages! So this class will compliment the first because it will take the pictures I'm organizing and help me make pages with them. I am very excited about that. Now my only problem is having time to scrap! Work is going to be crazy until the end of the month so I probably won't be scrapping too much until then. My goal is one page a week for the product class. I can do it!

Monday, June 19, 2006

Yay!!

Joey is coming home tonight. Or this morning, I should stay. I am getting very sleepy waiting for his plane to arrive. Poor thing, he had 2 flight delays on his way back. He will probably be even more tired.

I slept pretty poorly last night - I think it is mating season for frogs or something, because that's what it sounded like last night. I woke up at 3:30 am and kept waking up every hour after that. I hate when that happens. So today has been in a sleepy haze. I was somewhat productive - cleaned dishes and house.

Mom and Dad are in Japan for the next 6 weeks. I wish we were there too. I guess I should just be happy that tomorrow is a day off.

Gotta keep awake to pick up my Joey. toodles.

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Only one day to go

Working on Saturdays stink, but at least tomorrow and Monday are days off! And Joe comes home tomorrow - woo hoo! I think part of the reason I've been in such a bad mood lately is 'cause my baby is gon.

I went to dinner with Marc, Darryl and Darah last night at Thai Spice. Then we went to see The Break Up. It was pretty good - funny parts and sad parts. I enjoyed it overall.

Gotta gear myself up for work. Laters.

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Deep breaths

I am still obsessing over this whole work/vacation thing. I think I need to just chill out. Everything should work out in the end. Staffing is out of my control so I shouldn't stress about it so much. Just take each day as it comes. And if I have to take an extra sick day, so be it.

Breathe in, breathe out. Enjoy your life. It could be much worse. Now rinse and repeat.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Working is for the birds...

The problem with having a 3 day weekend is that it is all the harder to return to work on Tuesday! Lately I have been unhappy with the job. Not the actual work itself, but our crazy schedule. I don't mind being busy - in fact I like that it makes the day go by quicker. But being chaotic is another thing. And we have been really chaotic for at least 2 months now. We simply don't have enough people to work the volume of patients we are seeing. This has been an ongoing problem with no end in sight. That's what frustrates me. I try not to think about it and just do my work but, as usual, when I start thinking about it I start obsessing about it.

My motto is to take things day to day. Enjoy each day for what it is. That's what I need to do. It's just that sometimes work gets in the way of life.

Sigh. I miss my Joey!

I have been in a George Michael kind of mood lately. Listen without Prejudice is probably one of my favorite cds. It reminds me very much of the angst I felt in college. But it's just good music as well. I really would like to create a scrapbook of the music that moves me. It would be a work in progress as I have so many different musical influences over the course of my life! But a fun project nonetheless. Need to ponder that one...

Monday, June 12, 2006

Scrapaholic

So while Joe has been away, I have been compulsively organizing my photos (a la Stacy J's class at BPS), scanning my negatives (almost done with the box I dragged back from my parents' place) and scrappin (done a total of 6 layouts over the weekend. I even used the newest kit I got from A Million Memories. Days of hoarding are over. Yes, I can use up my scrap materials. That way I don't feel guilty for buying new stuff!).

I have barely even left the house all weekend - hee hee. On Sat I had to see post-ops and afterwards I made a trip to Wally World and Hobby Lobby. I want to get more linen We R Memory Keepers albums, but HL's supply is running low. After scrappin' all afternoon I watched So you think you can Dance?, my new summer show. And I had cereal for breakfast. And lunch. And dinner. That is so sad, but when I'm involved in something sometimes I just don't feel like eating (yes, very rare for me, so I need to take advantage!).

On Sunday I ran/walked and got a newspaper. Went to yoga in the morning. Cleaned house a litte. Actually made a sandwich for lunch. Darryl came by around 3 and we went to La Strada for a bday party for a client of his. His friend was cute and the people watching was entertaining but after about 2 hours I was done. When I got home, I drank lots of water to sober up and attempted to get something organized in my scrap room, but didn't get too much done.

Today has been fairly productive. I went by the post office as well as the g-store to stock up on some Rachael Ray staples. Went to the library and half price books. Scrapped and scanned. Got my new CK and some books from my friend Amy for my bday. So it has been a good mail day.

That's all for now. My life has been pretty boring lately but I'm ok with that. I like being at home and creating. It's all good.

Friday, June 09, 2006

Obsessed


I am obsessively organizing my photos and scanning my negatives. I have spent the last 4 hours doing so. I guess it doesn't hurt that Joe is gone for 10 days!!! I don't know what my fascination with old photos is due to...I just love looking and them. I wish I could remember things more. I really need to blog more details because they are so easy to forget!

This is an old photo of my dad's side of our family. Sadly, I haven't seen my youngest Aunt LuLu in probably over 10 years. And look at that 'fro on Ant Jy-Ming! You know this must have been taken some time in the '70s!! My parents are younger in this picture than me and Joe are now...can you imagine that???

Thinking about how time passes by like that makes me really want to treasure every moment. This is why I love scrapbooking - I don't want to forget my life.

Wednesday, June 07, 2006

Yet more randomness

14. I like started little random projects (ex. scrapbooking mini books), but I have a hard time finishing them. In fact, the easiest things for me to finish are just reading books. Making stuff is a different story.

13. I'm a little jealous of Mac geeks. I kind of wish I were one, but I actually like how PCs work.

12. Surprisingly, these days my interest in shopping for clothes has waned a bit. I went to the Galleria with Joe on Monday and sales were everywhere. I looked and looked but didn't really find anything I HAD to have.

11. I am into finding fun trendy accessories at Target for cheap! I got a oversized white bag, and 2 pairs of oversized sunglasses (one white, one tortoiseshell) for less than $50. I debated on getting 2 vs. 1 pr of sunglasses, but decided on both because my usual sunglasses are more than $200 each!

10. I think I am slightly dyslexic with numbers. I always get them mixed up - when typing account numbers or phone numbers, especially.

Tuesday, June 06, 2006

Even more random facts

19. I like to keep my fingernails really short. I think this is mainly a result from playing the piano for 10 years - can't have long fingernails to do that. Also it makes typing on the computer easier as well and, lastly, I have a hard time keeping them clean.

18. Sometimes I think Joe is a better husband than I am wife. He makes my lunch, cooks dinner when I can't, puts up with my messes and doesn't complain when I buy stuff. He's the best (I just have to keep reminding myself of that when he does something to piss me off! I have been working on that.)

17. Lately I have been on this obsessive scrapbooking kick. I still spend more time reading idea books and looking at Two Peas than actual scrapping, but I have been making progress.

16. Work has been really stressful the last 2-3 months. Mainly because we are way understaffed. I usually like my job but everyone (co-workers and patients alike) have been trying my last nerve as I probably have on theirs. I need to work on that.

15. I finally joined the 21st century and now have an Ipod nano, courtesy of Mom and Dad Wang for my 35th bday. Love it. Now I need to buy some songs from Itunes.

Monday, June 05, 2006

Too early to be up

For some reason my body woke me up around 5 this morning. I am sore!! This weekend was good for working out - I did 1 hour of cardio on Sat (still no running - the foot is not ready yet). And Sunday I took a half hour walk before yoga. Yoga was great - I didn't lose as much as I feared and I had to modify some poses, but I really enjoyed. Paying the price of a 2 month hiatus this morning though because my legs and shoulders are stiff and sore. Maybe that's why I'm up.

I also had a productive scrappin' day. 5 pages of just random things. I did what SJ suggested in her book and picked pictures that called to me. I meant to finish Ting's wedding album, but wasn't feeling motivated for that.

My next big project will be to get some pics printed and scrap some recent stuff. I am ready for my BPS class to start this Thursday!

Other random news - Nordstom is having their half yearly sale starting this Wed. Must go to the Galleria...

Saturday, June 03, 2006

Thirty years ago..

Miss Ting was born!! And my world was a better place :).

Happy birthday Tinger! I love you tons and tons!

Thursday, June 01, 2006

June already????

This year is flying by! And it's been hard to get motivated. To go to the gym, that is! A body in motion tends to stay in motion, while a body at rest, well, you get it. I was going to start the new month off by doing some cardio this morning. That didn't work out too well. I'm thinking this saturday I have no excuse. No work and Joe will be doing some crazy 6 hour workout, so one hour for me shouldn't be too bad. Especially with my new Ipod!

P.S. I had my first visitor here. She's a cute lady with a great blog. Does that mean I have to be clever when I write now?

Monday, May 29, 2006

fun times




Another fun trip to Lake travis. The day went by too fast as usual. Enjoying life with our friends...what could be better? (Maybe tomorrow when I'm over my hangover!)

Thursday, May 25, 2006

Been gone a long time











We had a fabulous time in LA!! Madonna rocked and I loved seeing Cindy. Miss that girl! However, by the time we got back home on Monday night we were exhausted.

We even had our final American Idol party last night. It was a success. Mr Soul Patrol Taylor won - not that I really care about him all that much. But the show was quite entertaining. And afterwards I went to M&D's to watch Lost. That show pisses me off - every time one question gets resolved, a million more pop into it's place!! I hate cliffhangers. Yet, I will be anxiously awaiting its return in the fall.

That's all for now - not been in the blogging mood lately.

Thursday, May 18, 2006

I'm going back to Cali

Tomorrow! Way excited about it. We had a little drama with a new addition to our group, but I'll get over it. Venice Beach and Hollywood, here we come! I need to look up the weather to see what clothes I should brind. Lots of packing to do tonight.

Finally got a picture to upload! Here is the fam - love them! This is a cute pic but our heads need to be closer together...

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

More random facts

24. I am the worst procrastinator ever. I keep meaning to make a list of things I need to do. But I haven't yet. I try to remember everything in my head, but inevitably I end up forgetting something.

23. Lately I have been reading less fiction and more non-fiction. I've been obsessed with The Big Picture and Stacy J's whole scrapbooking philosophy. I am excited to start her library of memories class this summer!

22. I've been feeling fat lately - probably because of the whole not-working-out-because-of-my-bunion-surgery thing. I did go to the gym this morning and did a leg workout as well as walked 30 minutes on the treadmill. I am really missing the whole running thing right now!

21. I am in the process of scanning all of my negatives into the computer. I have no intention of scrapping every single picture, but I'd like to have them all here. Just in case.

20. I get so much more done in the morning than in the evening. I am a definite early bird. This is most likely a result of my mom forcing me to go to bed early as a child.

Monday, May 15, 2006

I love my family!

So we drove up to Arlington on Friday night to be with the fam for mother's day. Ting and John surprised them with a visit as well! We all just hung out on Saturday - I was envisioning this amazing photo shoot and while we did get some great pics, but I don't know what my hair was doing and I don't like my shirt (yes, very narcissistic of me), of course not nearly as many as I would like. I guess practice makes perfect. I definitely need to get a tripod - this would make the whole family pictures a whole lot easier! But the ones of us looking up to the second floor were definitely my favorite. We will be doing much more pictures like that in the future!

I am having trouble uploading the photos so I will do so later.

I am still tired from getting up at 3 am to drive back home but at least I have the day off! I have already gone grocery store and done 3 loads of laundry so I am feeling somewhat productive.

Friday, May 12, 2006

Is is Friday yet?

Thank goodness it is! This week has just been hectic at work. Where does the time go?

We are going to Arlington this weekend to visit with the Fam. Ting and John are surprising Mom and Dad for the weekend. I am ready to see everyone. I want to take lots and lots of pics....

Not much to say today. Not very inspired right now.

Thursday, May 11, 2006

AI sucks

I can't believe Chris got sent home! This is awful. Even more awful than when Ace got sent home. I really thought he was going to win it all! And I did try to vote but crap!! I was shocked last night. So who are we left with: Katherine, Elliot and Taylor. I can't believe it still. The reality is setting in this morning.

Life will go on but again, AI just won't be as fun to watch...

8:23 PM
It looks like Chris may be the new front man for Fuel. I was never a huge fan, but now that he's there I may have a little interest.

Got my haircut today! More layers, to go with the new highlights. LA here we come!! Too bad I have been a lazy ass for the last month and haven't been working out (well, to my credit I'm just glad I'm not walking with a big limp any more!).

Otherwise I am feeling a bit shitty right now. My body is starting to ache all over. Not a good sign. To bed early tonight (which means right now - I thought when we get older we need less sleep! I feel like I need more and more...).