1. Egg nog or hot chocolate?
Both! But only if the egg nog is homemade.
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just set them under the tree?
This question doesn't make sense. Why would Santa set unwrapped presents under the tree?
3. Colored or white lights on the tree/house?
Depends on my mood. Usually only white on the tree.
4. Do you hang mistletoe?
Not usually, but it is the Year of the Kiss...
5. When do you put your decorations up?
The first weekend of December. But no decorations for me this year. :(
6. What is your favorite holiday dish?
I'd have to go with either a platter or a punch bowl.
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child:
The whole family packing into the suburban to look for Christmas lights.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
What truth? What are you implying? Has Santa been lying to me?
Okay, but seriously...I never believed in Santa. When I was little, I was afraid of Santa and didn't want "that big, scary man to come into my house" so my parents told me he wasn't real.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
We exchange presents with the extended family on Christmas Eve. That gives us time to regift them to others on Christmas Day.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
Pull it out of the closet and plug it in. Not really, but sort of this year, maybe.
11. Snow: love it or dread it?
Love it! But what do I know? I'm from Texas.
12. Can you ice skate?
Umm, no. I have never been ice skating. I can't roller skate either.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
The garnet ring my brother gave me. I've worn it for almost 15 years.
14. What's the most important thing about the holidays for you?
Getting drunk at the office Christmas party. Oh, wait...scratch that. Let's go with special moments with family.
15. What is your favorite holiday dessert?
Pumpkin pie.
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Decorating the Christmas tree with my family.
17. What tops your tree?
It used to be an angel that my mom made. But the last few years it has been a big bow. I'm thinking of wearing it in my hair this year.
18. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving?
I love finding the perfect gift for people. It's like a quest. But not like D&D.
19. What is your favorite Christmas song?
Carol of the Bells. Or maybe, I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus. Hmm, no. Definitely Carol of the Bells.
20. Candy Canes: yuck or yum?
Yum! Especially when used as a swizzle stick for your hot chocolate.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Premature?
I hope I'm not jumping the gun. I'm reinstating The Silly Rotor into my blog list. Two entries in less than a week, people! If you haven't surfed over to his neck of the blogs...head on over.
Go Coogs!
We had a going-away lunch for a co-worker today. This guy is possibly the biggest UH fan I've ever met. He sticks with his team no matter how they're performing. He has season tickets for football, basketball and baseball. For his farewell party, he chose to have lunch at a local Cougar hangout. Mandola's Deli is down the road from the campus and is filled with Cougar memorabilia. Lunch was great and everyone had a good time. But the icing on the proverbial cake was when we realized who was sitting at the table behind us. Members of the UH football team were having lunch, including quarterback Kevin Kolb. It was an unexpected present for our co-worker to be able to meet them and get autographs on his last day of work on the UH campus.
For anyone who's interested: Kevin Kolb has carried the team to a 9-3 season. The Cougars will play in the C-USA Championship on Friday night. Their win over Memphis also gave them homefield advantage, so the championship game will be right here in Houston.
This season, Kolb has thrown for 3,165 yards and 25 touchdowns, connecting on 68 percent of his passes with only three interceptions.
For anyone who's interested: Kevin Kolb has carried the team to a 9-3 season. The Cougars will play in the C-USA Championship on Friday night. Their win over Memphis also gave them homefield advantage, so the championship game will be right here in Houston.
This season, Kolb has thrown for 3,165 yards and 25 touchdowns, connecting on 68 percent of his passes with only three interceptions.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Transparency
I really just don't have any fun or lighthearted things to blog about right now. The holidays are difficult. Family time can be hard. Nothing in particular happened on Thanksgiving. It's not like there was drama. I love the holidays. But it's a bittersweet time for me. As much as I love it, it's also a very painful season for me.
I remember, when I was little, how Christmas morning was the most magical, wonderful time. My mom would get up early and bake orange sweet rolls and make hot chocolate. My dad would build a fire (when it was cold enough). My brother and I would grab our slippers and blankets and sit in front of the fire. It was usually my job to distribute the gifts to each person. Once all the presents were handed out, we would each take turns opening one. We always saved our stockings for last. Mom always thought of the best stocking stuffers. Sometimes they were funny -- a kitty-litter sifter. Sometimes they were tasty -- chocolate-covered hazelnuts. Sometimes they were the "big" gifts -- diamond earrings.
After all the presents were opened, it was time to start cooking and preparing for the family feast. The rest of the day was spent in eating, playing with/admiring presents, napping, watching Christmas movies, playing games and eating again. We would usually end up with a brisk walk around the neighborhood to look at the Christmas lights and greet the neighbors.
Christmas is different now. My brother and I are grown. My mom works a lot, so she's too tired to do much decorating or shopping for Christmas. My dad...well...my dad is my dad. Suffice it to say he's not the same man he used to be. We don't have any kids in our family, so there's not that same sense of unbridled excitement and anticipation.
Looking ahead to the next few weeks, I am filled with nostalgia. I smile over the special moments and cry over the things I miss. I am reminded that Christmas is still a magical, wonderful time. The sorrow I feel is temporal. But the joy of knowing Christ is eternal. That joy cannot be diminished by circumstances, relationships, pain or need. And the full beauty of this season comes from walking with my Redeemer, who binds up the broken-hearted.
"Thus says the LORD: In this place of which you say, 'It is a waste without man or beast,' in the cities of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem that are desolate, without man or inhabitant or beast, there shall be heard again the voice of mirth and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom and the voice of the bride, the voices of those who sing, as they bring thank offerings to the house of the LORD: 'Give thanks to the LORD of hosts, for the LORD is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.'" Jeremiah 33:10-11
I remember, when I was little, how Christmas morning was the most magical, wonderful time. My mom would get up early and bake orange sweet rolls and make hot chocolate. My dad would build a fire (when it was cold enough). My brother and I would grab our slippers and blankets and sit in front of the fire. It was usually my job to distribute the gifts to each person. Once all the presents were handed out, we would each take turns opening one. We always saved our stockings for last. Mom always thought of the best stocking stuffers. Sometimes they were funny -- a kitty-litter sifter. Sometimes they were tasty -- chocolate-covered hazelnuts. Sometimes they were the "big" gifts -- diamond earrings.
After all the presents were opened, it was time to start cooking and preparing for the family feast. The rest of the day was spent in eating, playing with/admiring presents, napping, watching Christmas movies, playing games and eating again. We would usually end up with a brisk walk around the neighborhood to look at the Christmas lights and greet the neighbors.
Christmas is different now. My brother and I are grown. My mom works a lot, so she's too tired to do much decorating or shopping for Christmas. My dad...well...my dad is my dad. Suffice it to say he's not the same man he used to be. We don't have any kids in our family, so there's not that same sense of unbridled excitement and anticipation.
Looking ahead to the next few weeks, I am filled with nostalgia. I smile over the special moments and cry over the things I miss. I am reminded that Christmas is still a magical, wonderful time. The sorrow I feel is temporal. But the joy of knowing Christ is eternal. That joy cannot be diminished by circumstances, relationships, pain or need. And the full beauty of this season comes from walking with my Redeemer, who binds up the broken-hearted.
"Thus says the LORD: In this place of which you say, 'It is a waste without man or beast,' in the cities of Judah and the streets of Jerusalem that are desolate, without man or inhabitant or beast, there shall be heard again the voice of mirth and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom and the voice of the bride, the voices of those who sing, as they bring thank offerings to the house of the LORD: 'Give thanks to the LORD of hosts, for the LORD is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.'" Jeremiah 33:10-11
Monday, November 27, 2006
It's the most wonderful time of the year
Why?
- Christmas Movies
- Christmas Carols
- Christmas Cookies
- Christmas Presents
- Christmas Lights
- Christmas Cards
- Christmas Wrapping
- Christmas Coffee
- Christmas Trees
- Christmas Parties
- Christmas Traditions
- Christmas Candlelight Service
- Christmas Day
Good Tunes
Well I heard there was a secret chord
that David played, and it pleased the Lord
but you don't really care for music, do ya?
Well it goes like this: the fourth, the fifth,
the minor fall and the major lift --
the baffled king composing "Hallelujah."
Well your faith was strong, but you needed proof.
You saw her bathing on the roof,
her beauty and the moonlight overthrew ya.
She tied you to her kitchen chair
and she broke your throne and she cut your hair
and from your lips she drew the hallelujah.
Well baby I've been here before,
I've seen this room and I've walked this floor,
I used to live alone before I knew ya.
And I've seen your flag on the marble arch
but love is not a victory march,
it's a cold and it's a broken hallelujah.
Well there was a time when you let me know
what's really going on below,
but now you never show that to me, do ya?
But remember when I moved in you,
and the Holy Dove was moving too
and every breath we drew was hallelujah.
Maybe there's a God above,
but all I've ever learned from love
was how to shoot somebody who outdrew ya.
And it's not a cry that you hear at night,
it's not somebody who's seen the light,
it's a cold and it's a broken hallelujah.
Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah.
~Jeff Buckley's cover of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah
that David played, and it pleased the Lord
but you don't really care for music, do ya?
Well it goes like this: the fourth, the fifth,
the minor fall and the major lift --
the baffled king composing "Hallelujah."
Well your faith was strong, but you needed proof.
You saw her bathing on the roof,
her beauty and the moonlight overthrew ya.
She tied you to her kitchen chair
and she broke your throne and she cut your hair
and from your lips she drew the hallelujah.
Well baby I've been here before,
I've seen this room and I've walked this floor,
I used to live alone before I knew ya.
And I've seen your flag on the marble arch
but love is not a victory march,
it's a cold and it's a broken hallelujah.
Well there was a time when you let me know
what's really going on below,
but now you never show that to me, do ya?
But remember when I moved in you,
and the Holy Dove was moving too
and every breath we drew was hallelujah.
Maybe there's a God above,
but all I've ever learned from love
was how to shoot somebody who outdrew ya.
And it's not a cry that you hear at night,
it's not somebody who's seen the light,
it's a cold and it's a broken hallelujah.
Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah. Hallelujah.
~Jeff Buckley's cover of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Obligatory Blog Post
So...I didn't have anything to blog about today. But Wednesday felt lonely, so I needed to give it a blog post.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Is this the party to whom I'm speaking?
My cell phone just rang. The number listed on the caller ID was 1-999-999-9999. I didn't answer.
Randomosity
My roses are still blooming. They are almost a week old and they are still beautiful. Thanks to a great guy for sending them and thanks to Beth for the tips on how to keep them fresh.
Why don't we eat turkey eggs? People eat chicken eggs, duck eggs and quail eggs. What is wrong with the turkey egg?
Thought from today's assignment: If you can't trust Fisher-Price, who can you trust?
I like how conversations with friends cover the most random topics. Last night I went from talking about dating to discussing obscure chess moves with one friend. Another friend and I went from discussing the challenges and joys of ministry to the merits of boy-cut panties vs. bikini-cut. Guess which conversation was with a guy and which was with a girl...
(Moms, I just used the "p" word! Dinah hates me right now!)
Did I mention that my roses are beautiful? They are.
Why don't we eat turkey eggs? People eat chicken eggs, duck eggs and quail eggs. What is wrong with the turkey egg?
Thought from today's assignment: If you can't trust Fisher-Price, who can you trust?
I like how conversations with friends cover the most random topics. Last night I went from talking about dating to discussing obscure chess moves with one friend. Another friend and I went from discussing the challenges and joys of ministry to the merits of boy-cut panties vs. bikini-cut. Guess which conversation was with a guy and which was with a girl...
(Moms, I just used the "p" word! Dinah hates me right now!)
Did I mention that my roses are beautiful? They are.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Good Tunes
Any minute now my ship is coming in.
I keep checking the horizon
and I'll stand on the bow and feel the waves come crashing
come crashing down, down, down on me.
And you say "be still my love,
open up your heart
let that light shine in."
Don't you understand
I already have a plan--
I'm waiting for my real life to begin.
I woke today -- suddenly nothing happened.
But in my dreams, I slew the dragon.
And down this beaten path, up this cobbled lane,
walking in my old footsteps
once again.
And you say "just be here now,
forget about the past
your mask is wearing thin."
Let me throw one more dice,
I know that I can win.
I'm waiting for my real life to begin.
Any minute now my ship is coming in.
I'll keep checking the horizon.
And I'll check my machine,
There's sure to be that call.
It's going to happen soon, soon, oh so very soon,
it's just that times are lean.
And you say "be still my love,
open up your heart
let that light shine in."
Don't you understand? Oh I already have a plan --
I'm waiting for my real life to begin.
On a clear day I can see, see for a long way.
On a clear day I can see...
~Colin Hay
I keep checking the horizon
and I'll stand on the bow and feel the waves come crashing
come crashing down, down, down on me.
And you say "be still my love,
open up your heart
let that light shine in."
Don't you understand
I already have a plan--
I'm waiting for my real life to begin.
I woke today -- suddenly nothing happened.
But in my dreams, I slew the dragon.
And down this beaten path, up this cobbled lane,
walking in my old footsteps
once again.
And you say "just be here now,
forget about the past
your mask is wearing thin."
Let me throw one more dice,
I know that I can win.
I'm waiting for my real life to begin.
Any minute now my ship is coming in.
I'll keep checking the horizon.
And I'll check my machine,
There's sure to be that call.
It's going to happen soon, soon, oh so very soon,
it's just that times are lean.
And you say "be still my love,
open up your heart
let that light shine in."
Don't you understand? Oh I already have a plan --
I'm waiting for my real life to begin.
On a clear day I can see, see for a long way.
On a clear day I can see...
~Colin Hay
Help!
Get me out of here! I've been in the office for about 30 minutes. Half of that time has been spent listening to my co-worker tell me really corny jokes that he's reading off of his email. Our desks face each other, so there's no escape. My only out is to put on my headphones and pretend like I am editing some audio cuts. Here's a sampling of the jokes I've heard this morning:
"A male antenna and a female antenna met and got married. The wedding wasn't much, but the reception was great."
"A dyslexic man walked into a bra."
"An invisible man and an invisible woman had kids. They weren't much to look at."
I will spare you the rest. Just another Monday in the glamorous life of a local celebrity...
"A male antenna and a female antenna met and got married. The wedding wasn't much, but the reception was great."
"A dyslexic man walked into a bra."
"An invisible man and an invisible woman had kids. They weren't much to look at."
I will spare you the rest. Just another Monday in the glamorous life of a local celebrity...
Friday, November 17, 2006
Friday Funnies
Things that made me laugh this week:
"Sadie* doesn't grow hair under her arms!"
*Name changed to protect the innocent
"Don said 'manhood package' at Men's Life. He meant to say 'manhood plan.'"
"Do your roses smell like curry?"
What I actually said: "I'll take the new guys in my group."
What they thought I said: "I'll take the nude guys in my group."
"I got a fortune cookie. I think the fortune is for you. It says 'if you've got it, flaunt it.'"
"With the Blue class coming in, we have fresh meat."
"That's the closest they come to screwing on the Christian channel."
"Sadie* doesn't grow hair under her arms!"
*Name changed to protect the innocent
"Don said 'manhood package' at Men's Life. He meant to say 'manhood plan.'"
"Do your roses smell like curry?"
What I actually said: "I'll take the new guys in my group."
What they thought I said: "I'll take the nude guys in my group."
"I got a fortune cookie. I think the fortune is for you. It says 'if you've got it, flaunt it.'"
"With the Blue class coming in, we have fresh meat."
"That's the closest they come to screwing on the Christian channel."
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Squishyness!
Yesterday afternoon our office receptionist called my desk. She said "Girl! Sharon and Jennifer and I need you to come down to the desk and pick up a package right away!" So I headed down to the reception area. While walking down there, I was wondering what the package was. Sometimes local PR companies will send us press releases and promotional packages. Often, those packages include food. So I figured the ladies wanted me to come down and open my package because it had food in it and they wanted to eat some.
I arrived at the desk and all three of them were excitedly hovering around the kind of box that I never expected to see. It was a long florist's box. They all wanted to know who was sending me flowers. I was as excited and bewildered as they were! I opened the box to find one and a half dozen long-stem roses! By this time, I was giddy! I opened the card to find a thank-you note for cooking dinner and "for being such an incredible friend." I was speechless. I couldn't stop smiling all afternoon.
While driving to the office this morning, I started smiling just thinking about my roses and the sweet guy that sent them to me. Oh, and just to clarify -- the roses were ordered before the guy read my blog entry about dinner and video games. So they weren't even apology roses! They were just pure, sweet, thoughtfulness! Big, BIG smiles. :}
I arrived at the desk and all three of them were excitedly hovering around the kind of box that I never expected to see. It was a long florist's box. They all wanted to know who was sending me flowers. I was as excited and bewildered as they were! I opened the box to find one and a half dozen long-stem roses! By this time, I was giddy! I opened the card to find a thank-you note for cooking dinner and "for being such an incredible friend." I was speechless. I couldn't stop smiling all afternoon.
While driving to the office this morning, I started smiling just thinking about my roses and the sweet guy that sent them to me. Oh, and just to clarify -- the roses were ordered before the guy read my blog entry about dinner and video games. So they weren't even apology roses! They were just pure, sweet, thoughtfulness! Big, BIG smiles. :}
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
O MY!
Apparently it doesn't take much to excite me. I have been accused of having orgasms over the red cups at Starbucks.* I know there are those who really enjoy their Starbucks "experience." Dovie and her Chantico and Todd and his indulgent hot chocolate come to mind. For the record, Starbucks isn't really an orgasmic experience for me. I'm no Meg Ryan.
By now, several of my readers are uncomfortable. Beth is probably freaking out. It's okay everyone. Just because we're Christian singles doesn't mean we can't use the "O" word sometimes. I know. I'm committing Baptist blasphemy. Give me a break people. I just wrote the word on my blog, it's not like I actually had one.
That just crossed the line, didn't it?
Yep. I officially pole-vaulted right over the line. But you know what? You liked it. That's why you, my friend, are a faithful QQ reader. I've got you pegged. Play out the line, dangle the bait, wait until you take a nibble, toy with the line a bit and then next thing you know...WHAM! You're hooked! Which is why you'll tune in tomorrow just to see what I'll say next...
*Read Shanna's blog for context
By now, several of my readers are uncomfortable. Beth is probably freaking out. It's okay everyone. Just because we're Christian singles doesn't mean we can't use the "O" word sometimes. I know. I'm committing Baptist blasphemy. Give me a break people. I just wrote the word on my blog, it's not like I actually had one.
That just crossed the line, didn't it?
Yep. I officially pole-vaulted right over the line. But you know what? You liked it. That's why you, my friend, are a faithful QQ reader. I've got you pegged. Play out the line, dangle the bait, wait until you take a nibble, toy with the line a bit and then next thing you know...WHAM! You're hooked! Which is why you'll tune in tomorrow just to see what I'll say next...
*Read Shanna's blog for context
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Deja vu all over again
I cooked dinner for my boyz last night. Remember this entry? Um, yeah. I was cooking the meal and stepped into the living room to ask a question. That's when I realized the guys were playing video games. Halo 2, to be exact. It reminded me of a quote from a book: "If you boys would grow up, you might be having sex by now instead of playing Super Mario XXXIV."
I asked them if they were intentionally trying to give me blog matieral. One guy responded that it was the least they could do in return for me cooking dinner for them. Nice.
Now, to be perfectly fair, there isn't a whole lot of room in the kitchen and there's not a whole lot they could do to help out. So it's not that I think playing video games while I'm cooking is rude. It's just that, by the time the meal was ready, I felt like I was calling the kids to come in for dinner.
I asked them if they were intentionally trying to give me blog matieral. One guy responded that it was the least they could do in return for me cooking dinner for them. Nice.
Now, to be perfectly fair, there isn't a whole lot of room in the kitchen and there's not a whole lot they could do to help out. So it's not that I think playing video games while I'm cooking is rude. It's just that, by the time the meal was ready, I felt like I was calling the kids to come in for dinner.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Must-See Movie
I was flipping channels over the weekend and came across one of my favorite movies: Sergeant York. If you haven't seen this movie, do yourself a favor and rent it. Gary Cooper won his first academy award for his role as Sergeant York. The movie is based on the true story of Alvin C. York.
York was a poor farmer in the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee. He was a rabble-rouser, known for drinking, gambling, cussing and fighting. His best friend died in a bar fight, which eventually led to York's conversion to Christianity.
A few years later, he was called up to serve in World War I. York struggled with the concept of war and killing. He believed the Bible commanded "Thou shalt not kill." But he also believed he should obey the laws of his country and do his duty. He spent two days and a night out on a mountain, praying about what to do. His diary records that God spoke to him on the mountain and told him to go and serve and promised him that he would come back safely.
York was shipped off to France. He was an excellent sharpshooter (having honed his skills in turkey shoots back home). He and his detachment were traveling through the Argonne Forest, when they came under attack. Three of his superiors were killed along with most of his detachment. He assumed command of the seven surviving men. He was under heavy fire from a German machine gun nest, when he single-handedly killed nearly 30 enemies and took over the nest, forcing 132 Germans to surrender to him and his seven soldiers.
He was awarded the French Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor, along with the Congressional Medal of Honor. He was a poor, simple man. A devout Christian, he carried his New Testament to the battlefield and read it through five times while at war saying it was "my rock to cling to."
He was hailed as the greatest hero of WWI.
York was a poor farmer in the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee. He was a rabble-rouser, known for drinking, gambling, cussing and fighting. His best friend died in a bar fight, which eventually led to York's conversion to Christianity.
A few years later, he was called up to serve in World War I. York struggled with the concept of war and killing. He believed the Bible commanded "Thou shalt not kill." But he also believed he should obey the laws of his country and do his duty. He spent two days and a night out on a mountain, praying about what to do. His diary records that God spoke to him on the mountain and told him to go and serve and promised him that he would come back safely.
York was shipped off to France. He was an excellent sharpshooter (having honed his skills in turkey shoots back home). He and his detachment were traveling through the Argonne Forest, when they came under attack. Three of his superiors were killed along with most of his detachment. He assumed command of the seven surviving men. He was under heavy fire from a German machine gun nest, when he single-handedly killed nearly 30 enemies and took over the nest, forcing 132 Germans to surrender to him and his seven soldiers.
He was awarded the French Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honor, along with the Congressional Medal of Honor. He was a poor, simple man. A devout Christian, he carried his New Testament to the battlefield and read it through five times while at war saying it was "my rock to cling to."
He was hailed as the greatest hero of WWI.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Friday Funnies
Things that made me laugh this week:
Friend: "You should come out of your shell."
Me: "I don't have a shell."
Another friend: "You're like a naked turtle."
"That's what you get for eating chicken fat off of someone else's plate."
"Shelley 'Seclusion' Gibbs has left the building."
On the perils of playing co-ed flag football: "Oops! Sorry, I meant to grab your...flag."
What I actually said: "Have a cookie. It will make you feel better."
What he thought I said: "Have a quickie. It will make you feel better."
"I feel like there should be a disclaimer: Actual discipleship results may vary."
"Frontal hugs are bad because our parts might touch."
Friend: "You should come out of your shell."
Me: "I don't have a shell."
Another friend: "You're like a naked turtle."
"That's what you get for eating chicken fat off of someone else's plate."
"Shelley 'Seclusion' Gibbs has left the building."
On the perils of playing co-ed flag football: "Oops! Sorry, I meant to grab your...flag."
What I actually said: "Have a cookie. It will make you feel better."
What he thought I said: "Have a quickie. It will make you feel better."
"I feel like there should be a disclaimer: Actual discipleship results may vary."
"Frontal hugs are bad because our parts might touch."
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Randomosity*
I didn't blog on Tuesday because it was Election Day. I left work at 1:30am. I was covering an election "party" for District 22. It was dismal.
Today, I treated myself to Chick-Fil-A. I ordered an eight-pack of nuggets. I drove away and looked in my bag. They gave me a 12-pack. Score!
My IM buddy, Steven, told me his goal is to make it onto the Friday Funnies every week. Tomorrow will be his first time on there. This should be fun because it means he'll be trying to make me laugh all the time.
My roommate, Dinah, sold me out. I'm bitter.
If HD radio makes an FM signal sound like CD quality, does it make an AM signal sound like FM quality?
I have a dilemma. I have a Thanksgiving party and a wedding on the same night. Do I pick one? Or do I try to make both? What to do, what to do.
Between last night and this morning, I received nine emails from Troy. I think that might be a record.
I still haven't seen my first red cup of the season. Although it doesn't feel much like the "season" anyway. A third of the way through November and it's actually hot outside! Sigh.
I want a new bedspread. Maybe this one.
I also want a KitchenAid mixer. They are stinkin' expensive.
I'm ready to start my Christmas shopping. Problem is, I don't know what I'm getting for anyone.
Last night I had a rare opportunity to watch TV. I was torn between Dr. 90210 and the Food Network. I don't recommend flipping back and forth between the two.
*Dear Reader, you have just been subjected to the kind of random thoughts that flit through my brain on any given day.
Today, I treated myself to Chick-Fil-A. I ordered an eight-pack of nuggets. I drove away and looked in my bag. They gave me a 12-pack. Score!
My IM buddy, Steven, told me his goal is to make it onto the Friday Funnies every week. Tomorrow will be his first time on there. This should be fun because it means he'll be trying to make me laugh all the time.
My roommate, Dinah, sold me out. I'm bitter.
If HD radio makes an FM signal sound like CD quality, does it make an AM signal sound like FM quality?
I have a dilemma. I have a Thanksgiving party and a wedding on the same night. Do I pick one? Or do I try to make both? What to do, what to do.
Between last night and this morning, I received nine emails from Troy. I think that might be a record.
I still haven't seen my first red cup of the season. Although it doesn't feel much like the "season" anyway. A third of the way through November and it's actually hot outside! Sigh.
I want a new bedspread. Maybe this one.
I also want a KitchenAid mixer. They are stinkin' expensive.
I'm ready to start my Christmas shopping. Problem is, I don't know what I'm getting for anyone.
Last night I had a rare opportunity to watch TV. I was torn between Dr. 90210 and the Food Network. I don't recommend flipping back and forth between the two.
*Dear Reader, you have just been subjected to the kind of random thoughts that flit through my brain on any given day.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Going to the Chapel...
I know. It's only been a couple of weeks since "the date." And here I am, practically engaged. Not to the man who took me on "the date." Sorry Justin!
Last weekend I went to the annual Hoe Down. Much fun was had by all. While there, I ran into Preston. Preston is one of those guys that I only see from time to time, but when we do see each other we really enjoy catching up. So Preston sees me and a big grin spreads over his face. We chat for a few minutes, then he asks me where I'm sitting for dinner. I tell him he should select a table for us to share. About midway through our meal, Preston informs me that he recently found my blog. He loves it. Finds it addicting. And, through reading my blog, he discovered that I work for his favorite radio network. He told me that when he found out where I work and what I do, he wanted to propose to me on the spot. I told him I would gladly accept.
Stay tuned for further updates...
Last weekend I went to the annual Hoe Down. Much fun was had by all. While there, I ran into Preston. Preston is one of those guys that I only see from time to time, but when we do see each other we really enjoy catching up. So Preston sees me and a big grin spreads over his face. We chat for a few minutes, then he asks me where I'm sitting for dinner. I tell him he should select a table for us to share. About midway through our meal, Preston informs me that he recently found my blog. He loves it. Finds it addicting. And, through reading my blog, he discovered that I work for his favorite radio network. He told me that when he found out where I work and what I do, he wanted to propose to me on the spot. I told him I would gladly accept.
Stay tuned for further updates...
Monday, November 06, 2006
Preventing the Common Cold
A certain drug-dealer friend informed me of a new study that should benefit everyone. The study looked into the best way to prevent the common cold. A lot of people take zinc, but zinc can lead to permanent loss of smell.
So researchers found the best method of cold prevention is making out for 30 minutes, three times a week. Strengthens your immune system. Ahem.
My drug-dealer friend informed me that if any girl had a prescription for this new preventive measure, he would be duty-bound to fill the prescription.
So researchers found the best method of cold prevention is making out for 30 minutes, three times a week. Strengthens your immune system. Ahem.
My drug-dealer friend informed me that if any girl had a prescription for this new preventive measure, he would be duty-bound to fill the prescription.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Friday Funnies
Things that made me laugh this week:
"Darrick, stop making Laurie naked!"
Pastor Gregg in sermon: "My desire is..."
Guy sitting next to me in church: "to be a player."
"I'm going to get lip for that decision...and not the good kind of lip."
"What we need is Director and Women's Coordinator Emeritus."
Overheard in men's restroom: "Let's quiet down and let these guys concentrate on their bowel movements."
"Darrick, stop making Laurie naked!"
Pastor Gregg in sermon: "My desire is..."
Guy sitting next to me in church: "to be a player."
"I'm going to get lip for that decision...and not the good kind of lip."
"What we need is Director and Women's Coordinator Emeritus."
Overheard in men's restroom: "Let's quiet down and let these guys concentrate on their bowel movements."
Thursday, November 02, 2006
The Secret
For those of you who still care, I can now reveal the secret. Two months ago I blogged that I had a secret that only two other people knew about. I told you that secret could be revealed after October 31st. I also told you this secret was nothing ground-breaking. It wasn't about a relationship, nuptials, pending births or anything else remotely thrilling. It was just a secret. So here's what happened.
One day late in August, I received an email from Todd Richards. The email instructed me to scroll down to the bottom and read the conversation that was pasted in. The conversation was between Todd and Justin Fountain. The two men were debating who had more nicknames. Justin threw down the gauntlet and challenged Todd to a nickname duel. The only problem was the men needed an objective outside observer to judge the contest. This, Todd told me, is where I came in. Would I be the judge of the Infamous Nickname Challenge? Pretty please with a cherry on top? I, of course, was honored by the request and readily acquiesced. I was also slightly shocked that I was considered an "objective" judge, but I kept that thought to myself.
So the contest began. I drafted several rules for the contestants. Negotiations over the rules took about a day. Finally, all parties were in agreement and the INC began on the first day of September in the Year of our Lord two thousand and six. The rules stated that each contestant must be referred to by any given nickname twice before it could be submitted. Furthermore, the nickname had to be used by at least two different people in reference to the contestant. The contestants were prohibited from giving themselves new nicknames, although once a nickname had been used they could repeat it in front of others in an attempt to help it catch on. The contestants were also prohibited from telling any one about the INC. This was a top secret contest. The deadline for nickname submissions was the thirty-first of October in the Year of our Lord two thousand and six.
Over the past two months, both men did their best to promote the use of nicknames. Every once in a while, I would receive an email or text message alerting me to a new qualifying nickname. It was my job to judge the validity of each entry and keep the tally. The race was neck and neck. The first entry came from Todd. He was called "T-Bone." The next was from Justin. He had two: "New York Justin" and "My Favorite." Then another from Todd, "Hot Toddy." Then Justin pulled ahead again with "Violent J."
Yesterday, I did a final check on the numbers and found the standings were as follows:
Todd: T-Bone, Hot Toddy, Toddatello, T-Rich
Justin: New York Justin, My Favorite, Violent J, Cocky Justin, J-flow
Justin's final submission broke the tie and he was declared winner of the Infamous Nickname Challenge! Todd was a gracious loser, stating Justin deserved to win with a nickname like J-flow as his final entry. It is assumed Justin was a gracious winner as well...
And as a postscript, Todd said he had one more nickname he would have liked to submit, but it came a day late and was only used by one person. Don Munton referred to him as "T-Baby."
One day late in August, I received an email from Todd Richards. The email instructed me to scroll down to the bottom and read the conversation that was pasted in. The conversation was between Todd and Justin Fountain. The two men were debating who had more nicknames. Justin threw down the gauntlet and challenged Todd to a nickname duel. The only problem was the men needed an objective outside observer to judge the contest. This, Todd told me, is where I came in. Would I be the judge of the Infamous Nickname Challenge? Pretty please with a cherry on top? I, of course, was honored by the request and readily acquiesced. I was also slightly shocked that I was considered an "objective" judge, but I kept that thought to myself.
So the contest began. I drafted several rules for the contestants. Negotiations over the rules took about a day. Finally, all parties were in agreement and the INC began on the first day of September in the Year of our Lord two thousand and six. The rules stated that each contestant must be referred to by any given nickname twice before it could be submitted. Furthermore, the nickname had to be used by at least two different people in reference to the contestant. The contestants were prohibited from giving themselves new nicknames, although once a nickname had been used they could repeat it in front of others in an attempt to help it catch on. The contestants were also prohibited from telling any one about the INC. This was a top secret contest. The deadline for nickname submissions was the thirty-first of October in the Year of our Lord two thousand and six.
Over the past two months, both men did their best to promote the use of nicknames. Every once in a while, I would receive an email or text message alerting me to a new qualifying nickname. It was my job to judge the validity of each entry and keep the tally. The race was neck and neck. The first entry came from Todd. He was called "T-Bone." The next was from Justin. He had two: "New York Justin" and "My Favorite." Then another from Todd, "Hot Toddy." Then Justin pulled ahead again with "Violent J."
Yesterday, I did a final check on the numbers and found the standings were as follows:
Todd: T-Bone, Hot Toddy, Toddatello, T-Rich
Justin: New York Justin, My Favorite, Violent J, Cocky Justin, J-flow
Justin's final submission broke the tie and he was declared winner of the Infamous Nickname Challenge! Todd was a gracious loser, stating Justin deserved to win with a nickname like J-flow as his final entry. It is assumed Justin was a gracious winner as well...
And as a postscript, Todd said he had one more nickname he would have liked to submit, but it came a day late and was only used by one person. Don Munton referred to him as "T-Baby."
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Summit Mole?
I just read a book called what a girl wants. If you know me at all, you know I am not the chick-lit/chick-flick kind of girl. I would much rather watch a marathon viewing of The Lord of the Rings Trilogy than be subjected to Sweet Home Alabama. So it was after much persuasion by numerous girlfriends that I reluctantly picked up a copy of what a girl wants (the title is not capitalized, so stop freaking out). I have a confession to make. I liked it.
Here's the premise: single, 31-year-old, average Christian girl ruminates on the oddities of her church singles group and the drama of being single and wanting to be married.
I think the author must have spent several months undercover in Summit before she wrote the book. I call it uncanny. Let me give you a few examples.
On finding dates at work:
"At work, engineers are on a different plane. They're not thinking about dates or women, they are thinking about an integrated circuit they must procure, and since they can only open one mental compartment at a time, my chance of getting a boyfriend at work is about as slim as Ally McBeal's neck."
On singles' friendships:
"He calls me when he gets dumped. I call him when no one calls me. We've been friends for years. And friends is all we'll ever be."
On other Christian girls:
"How do you tell someone who speaks flirtation as such a natural form of communication that it's playing with fire? She has no idea the authority she holds in her tiny swaying hips."
"I just love standing next to her size-two figure while we sing so I can look like the great opera diva next to her."
On Christian guys:
"I can picture him pulling my hair before I can picture him kissing me."
"When I was in eighth grade and boys discussed video games, I understood. Now that I'm thirty-one I think to myself, If you boys would grow up, you might be having sex by now instead of playing Super Mario XXXIV. But as an aging virgin, who am I to judge?"
"The Bible outright tells men that beauty is fleeting, yet they seem to chase after it like a leaf in a rogue wind, stumbling and grasping, while another more intricate and colorful leaf dangles on the tree."
Did I write this book in my sleep? My main problem with the book (and all of the chick-lit/flick variety) is the neat, tidy, lovestory ending. Real life doesn't always work that way. But I guess a girl can hope to get what a girl wants.
Here's the premise: single, 31-year-old, average Christian girl ruminates on the oddities of her church singles group and the drama of being single and wanting to be married.
I think the author must have spent several months undercover in Summit before she wrote the book. I call it uncanny. Let me give you a few examples.
On finding dates at work:
"At work, engineers are on a different plane. They're not thinking about dates or women, they are thinking about an integrated circuit they must procure, and since they can only open one mental compartment at a time, my chance of getting a boyfriend at work is about as slim as Ally McBeal's neck."
On singles' friendships:
"He calls me when he gets dumped. I call him when no one calls me. We've been friends for years. And friends is all we'll ever be."
On other Christian girls:
"How do you tell someone who speaks flirtation as such a natural form of communication that it's playing with fire? She has no idea the authority she holds in her tiny swaying hips."
"I just love standing next to her size-two figure while we sing so I can look like the great opera diva next to her."
On Christian guys:
"I can picture him pulling my hair before I can picture him kissing me."
"When I was in eighth grade and boys discussed video games, I understood. Now that I'm thirty-one I think to myself, If you boys would grow up, you might be having sex by now instead of playing Super Mario XXXIV. But as an aging virgin, who am I to judge?"
"The Bible outright tells men that beauty is fleeting, yet they seem to chase after it like a leaf in a rogue wind, stumbling and grasping, while another more intricate and colorful leaf dangles on the tree."
Did I write this book in my sleep? My main problem with the book (and all of the chick-lit/flick variety) is the neat, tidy, lovestory ending. Real life doesn't always work that way. But I guess a girl can hope to get what a girl wants.
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