What do you get when you put two girls with big hair, big ideas and a passion for football together? A LOT OF FUN.
I literally became friends with SLS during one of those, a friend of a friend of a friend things. We met a week ago through a friend at an outing on the hill. It had been a rough week for the both of us and we found solace in each others stories and love for football (we did our college picks after 10 mins of knowing each other). On the outside we seem extremely opposite – she is a tall blonde from Georgia who loves the SEC. Whereas, I’m the stocky girl with brownish curly frizz who is as open and crass as they can get in the Midwest….not to mention I speak of the Big 10 as if it’s my religion. Even though we are so opposite on the outside, we have a million commonalities. I am working on a southern charm….she’s attempting to be more ‘real’ like the Midwest. Funny how we both like each others demographics yet neither have visited each others homeland.
Now, I was nervous when I had invited her over to bake and watch football with me. I didn’t know how she’d take it. Most of the girls I’ve met here are more into being either very domestic or very wild. Rarely do I find the combo. Also, they have a hard time making themselves at home….something that I loathe. But SLS proved all of that wrong in mere seconds of walking in my door. I told her the agenda and she said she was game – YES! Then I said, would you like to order some food – she said, pizza would be good – YES! I realized I didn’t have anything besides water and milk to drink…. “What would you like to drink?” I ask. “Ummm….I see you have tequila.” – YES! We then proceed to bake our coffee cake, order a pizza and run to the liquor store to buy more tequila. Once back we settle down, watch a little FoxNews as our pre-game, then turned on the MNF and drank our margaritas. I said my home team (Vikings) was playing. She said, “Good, I’ll cheer for them.” – Didn’t I tell you she was awesome?!
After the first quarter she said – “Now what about those caramel apples?!” So we headed to the kitchen. Now this is the fun part. We weren’t just making regular old joe caramel apples….we were making Rocky Road Caramel apples. A few more steps, that made the kitchen into a disaster zone. You see, once you roll the apple in the caramel…you then roll it on a plate that has crushed nuts and mini-marshmallows on it. After that you drizzle chocolate on them. The caramel-ling them was easy…….but when you have two tipsy girls attempting this, you might end up burning your hands (HOT CARAMEL) and getting your hair full of sticky stuff (note: pull your hair back before doing this). But we managed to get all 6 (yes, pathetic little six) done….after 25 mins. The laughing kept us from doing it efficiently. Not to mention I took 10 breaks to sweep the 3x6 ft floor because the nuts were flying everywhere (note: pounding the apple on the nuts doesn’t make them stick any easier).
As a result – we made some kick-ass caramel apples which were very heavy and filled you up after 2 bites. Also, the apple coffee cake was a hit at work (we might have an Iron Chef USDEC sometime soon!). Only bad thing – the Vikes lost…..it was pathetic.
10.31.2006
10.30.2006
Meme - Yes, I'm pathetic!
I needed to think and not READ.....so I did a meme for a moment of relaxation.
1. Flip to page 18, paragraph 4 - in the book closest to you right now, what does it say?“Hereditary monarchy, like hereditary nobility, was already a medieval innovation. It is true that some barbarian lieutenants had held office by descent rather than deed. But the chieftains had been chosen for merit, and early kings wore crowns only advitan aut cuplam – for life or until removed for fault. " – A World Lit only by Fire by Manchester
2. If you stretch out your left arm as far as possible, what are you touching?
The 2005 dairy facts book; the Bible for any statistics on domestic dairy products.
3. What's the last program you watched on TV?
Fox and Friends at 6am today
4. Without looking, guess what time it is.
3:10 p.m. …..oohhh….I was close – it is 3:12 p.m.
5. Except the computer, what can you hear right now?
The hum of the printer; it’s really annoying when it runs.
6. When was the last time you were outside and what did you do?
I walked to Harry’s Tap Room for lunch.
7. What are you wearing?
Turtle neck sweater, skirt and flats (a bit of a ‘60’s collegiate look)
8. Did you dream last night? If you did, what about?
Umm…..I dreamt that I was married, well into a career and had 2 kids.
9. When was the last time you laughed?
Really hard? Last night when I watched the movie The Lion in Winter – too many one-liners that just killed me.
10. What's on the walls, in the room you're in right now?
Dairy propaganda.
11. Have you seen anything strange lately?
Not really. Yesterday I felt like I lived downtown NYC with all of the people in the street and the live bands playing literally 200 ft from my bedroom window. It was weird.
And I hungout with a really pregnant woman today....I'm not used to seeing that either.
12. What do you think about this meme?
Eh…kinda lame.
13. What's the last film you saw?
Film? The last movie was My Louisiana Sky, too family-esque by the way.
14. If you became a multimillionaire, what would you do with the money?
Pay off my debt and the family farms debt. Buy some land in the U.S. and abroad. Give to the MS Society and some others. Then throw a huge-ass party. And then invest the rest in mutual funds.
15. Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know.
I voted “No” for #1.
16. If you could change ONE THING in this world, without regarding politics or bad guilt, what would it be?
No obesity and no famine (they are one in my eyes)
17. Do you like dancing?
Yes! I need a good partner though.
18. George Bush?
Is a cutie. Shut-up!
19. What do you want your children's names to be, girl/boy?
Boys: Tristan; Clayton; Toby; Taylor; Perry
Girls: Madeline; or whatever comes to me after I’m out of shock because it’s not a boy.
*the ‘other’ person will need to agree w/ me of course.
20. Would you ever consider living abroad?
Yes – if I’m married.
21. What do you want God to tell you, when you come to heaven?
You only disappointed me through the years 0f 2001-2008.
1. Flip to page 18, paragraph 4 - in the book closest to you right now, what does it say?“Hereditary monarchy, like hereditary nobility, was already a medieval innovation. It is true that some barbarian lieutenants had held office by descent rather than deed. But the chieftains had been chosen for merit, and early kings wore crowns only advitan aut cuplam – for life or until removed for fault. " – A World Lit only by Fire by Manchester
2. If you stretch out your left arm as far as possible, what are you touching?
The 2005 dairy facts book; the Bible for any statistics on domestic dairy products.
3. What's the last program you watched on TV?
Fox and Friends at 6am today
4. Without looking, guess what time it is.
3:10 p.m. …..oohhh….I was close – it is 3:12 p.m.
5. Except the computer, what can you hear right now?
The hum of the printer; it’s really annoying when it runs.
6. When was the last time you were outside and what did you do?
I walked to Harry’s Tap Room for lunch.
7. What are you wearing?
Turtle neck sweater, skirt and flats (a bit of a ‘60’s collegiate look)
8. Did you dream last night? If you did, what about?
Umm…..I dreamt that I was married, well into a career and had 2 kids.
9. When was the last time you laughed?
Really hard? Last night when I watched the movie The Lion in Winter – too many one-liners that just killed me.
10. What's on the walls, in the room you're in right now?
Dairy propaganda.
11. Have you seen anything strange lately?
Not really. Yesterday I felt like I lived downtown NYC with all of the people in the street and the live bands playing literally 200 ft from my bedroom window. It was weird.
And I hungout with a really pregnant woman today....I'm not used to seeing that either.
12. What do you think about this meme?
Eh…kinda lame.
13. What's the last film you saw?
Film? The last movie was My Louisiana Sky, too family-esque by the way.
14. If you became a multimillionaire, what would you do with the money?
Pay off my debt and the family farms debt. Buy some land in the U.S. and abroad. Give to the MS Society and some others. Then throw a huge-ass party. And then invest the rest in mutual funds.
15. Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know.
I voted “No” for #1.
16. If you could change ONE THING in this world, without regarding politics or bad guilt, what would it be?
No obesity and no famine (they are one in my eyes)
17. Do you like dancing?
Yes! I need a good partner though.
18. George Bush?
Is a cutie. Shut-up!
19. What do you want your children's names to be, girl/boy?
Boys: Tristan; Clayton; Toby; Taylor; Perry
Girls: Madeline; or whatever comes to me after I’m out of shock because it’s not a boy.
*the ‘other’ person will need to agree w/ me of course.
20. Would you ever consider living abroad?
Yes – if I’m married.
21. What do you want God to tell you, when you come to heaven?
You only disappointed me through the years 0f 2001-2008.
I Don't Think So!
If you go to Heritage.com and post your picture they will select which 'celebrities' that you look the most like. This is what came up for me....I didn't know whether to laugh or be impressed. I think the ONLY one I could pass for is Patsy (and we won't even go into my obsession over her!).
Now it's your turn to try!
Now it's your turn to try!
10.26.2006
私は日本人を読むことができない。
That is just how I feel. I get very excited now when I get materials in the English language. Don't get me wrong, working with international offices is very interesting and a great 'learning' experience, but there are somedays where I forget decent, meaningful English words. My work is currently working on our international websites.....cool except for the fact NO ONE is fluent in any Asian languages here. Sure, if you need to translate Spanish, Portuguese, French and Arabic - we're cool. But not when it comes to Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, Simple Chinese or Traditional Chinese.....I regret not taking classes.
Frustrating!
***
Less than TWO weeks until ya vote. I'm nervous and almost hitting the point where I watch/read the news non-stop. My co-workers are more than likely sick of me talking about it and the buzz on the Hill is going insane. You can hardly breath when you're at the Top of the Hill....you turn one way and there's a group talking about Maryland then another and people are freaking over Sen. Talent. Not to mention the RNC has gulped up a number of my closest friends; I think I remember what they look like. Might have to look for a picture. It was only by chance that I ran into RO and we got a share a whole solid hour together for the first time in over two weeks (that is long by our standards).
I'm excited and nervous. It is weird though, because for every 10 GOP friends I have out here I only have 1 Dem friend. (It was 50/50 back home) I don't even get solid arguments anymore. It's just like a bunch of us are getting squimish and are starting to argue stats/polls/media amongst ourselves. Those are usually the worst arguments. There have been a number of times when I've needed to just walk away and find solace in something else (which was baseball, then college football, now it's Dallas). Yes, you know I've gone off the deep-end when I start devoting at least an hour a night to watching the show Dallas. The next step towards crazy is when I sit there and crochet while watching the show. I haven't gotten there - yet. That might be because I cannot find my crochet hooks and yarn.
Regardless of whether or not I start crocheting, I will be a nervous/crazy person until November 8th. I don't handle losing well - okay, at all. It's not my thang, hence why the Gophers are killing me and why I cannot watch the World Series.
I just have to say - Lord help me and all those who will be around me for the next two weeks.
Frustrating!
***
Less than TWO weeks until ya vote. I'm nervous and almost hitting the point where I watch/read the news non-stop. My co-workers are more than likely sick of me talking about it and the buzz on the Hill is going insane. You can hardly breath when you're at the Top of the Hill....you turn one way and there's a group talking about Maryland then another and people are freaking over Sen. Talent. Not to mention the RNC has gulped up a number of my closest friends; I think I remember what they look like. Might have to look for a picture. It was only by chance that I ran into RO and we got a share a whole solid hour together for the first time in over two weeks (that is long by our standards).
I'm excited and nervous. It is weird though, because for every 10 GOP friends I have out here I only have 1 Dem friend. (It was 50/50 back home) I don't even get solid arguments anymore. It's just like a bunch of us are getting squimish and are starting to argue stats/polls/media amongst ourselves. Those are usually the worst arguments. There have been a number of times when I've needed to just walk away and find solace in something else (which was baseball, then college football, now it's Dallas). Yes, you know I've gone off the deep-end when I start devoting at least an hour a night to watching the show Dallas. The next step towards crazy is when I sit there and crochet while watching the show. I haven't gotten there - yet. That might be because I cannot find my crochet hooks and yarn.
Regardless of whether or not I start crocheting, I will be a nervous/crazy person until November 8th. I don't handle losing well - okay, at all. It's not my thang, hence why the Gophers are killing me and why I cannot watch the World Series.
I just have to say - Lord help me and all those who will be around me for the next two weeks.
10.23.2006
My Heart is Broken
I recieved a phone call from my mom the other day. She said that there was some bad news. I paused for a moment and waited for her to proceed. "Hon, Mack Reiter tore is ACL....he'll be out the rest of the season." I was stunned. I didn't know what to say, instead I let a tear drop. Mack, one of the Gophers biggest hopes, will not be there to help bring back the National title for wrestling. (Note: Mack was an All-American both 2005 and 2006, finishing 4th last year)
It may seem crazy in with my family's response, but that is how we roll. There is no sport higher than wrestling in our lives (no worries, we root for football and hockey like crazy). But our Gopher Wrestling team comes first. These are guys that we have watched and cheered for since their redshirting days....and maybe even before (if they came from a MN or IA H.S.) So when one of the team members is down, we feel the pain.
The team is currently ranked No. 1 for the NCAA preseason rankings...even though Okie State has held the last four years as the Natioanl Champs. This is the year that the nation is looking at the U to once again pull a victory come March. The team has been building and is bringing back seven national qualifiers....not too shabby. But the hole from Mack will be felt and I'm not looking forward to it. But I have a feeling that the Gophers won't let this shake them. Unlike some other sports at the U, wrestling doesn't rely on one individual to get the job done.
So......Good Luck Guys!
****
Speaking of OTHER Gopher sports....
WAY TO GO U of M Football Team. I'm so happy you were able to pull it off against the Bison. It was a true nail biter.
*Sorry, sarcasm is so hard to show via internet*
It may seem crazy in with my family's response, but that is how we roll. There is no sport higher than wrestling in our lives (no worries, we root for football and hockey like crazy). But our Gopher Wrestling team comes first. These are guys that we have watched and cheered for since their redshirting days....and maybe even before (if they came from a MN or IA H.S.) So when one of the team members is down, we feel the pain.
The team is currently ranked No. 1 for the NCAA preseason rankings...even though Okie State has held the last four years as the Natioanl Champs. This is the year that the nation is looking at the U to once again pull a victory come March. The team has been building and is bringing back seven national qualifiers....not too shabby. But the hole from Mack will be felt and I'm not looking forward to it. But I have a feeling that the Gophers won't let this shake them. Unlike some other sports at the U, wrestling doesn't rely on one individual to get the job done.
So......Good Luck Guys!
****
Speaking of OTHER Gopher sports....
WAY TO GO U of M Football Team. I'm so happy you were able to pull it off against the Bison. It was a true nail biter.
*Sorry, sarcasm is so hard to show via internet*
10.20.2006
I Baked a Cake - Now Give Me a DAMN Gold Star
A word to the wise - never host a schedule like this:
5-6 pm – Drink at 4 Courts
6:30-10 pm – Drink at Pour House and Top of the Hill
10ish pm– Walk to metro
10ish later pm – Walk back to bar
10ish-11 pm – Stare at other people drinking
11 pm – Eat Taco Bell
12 am – Talk to roommate/shower/go to bed
4 am – Wake up
4:30 am – Still awake
5 am – Getting frustrated, buzz finally leaving, headache starting
5:30 am – Get out of bed and go bake a cake
6 am – Workout
7 am – Finish cake – get ready for work
8 am – Leave for work carrying cake
*******Tired blur and a lot of talking**********
1:30 pm – Go crazy with boss and co-workers…we had a mini bowling tournament
Lesson Learned:
Never promise to bake a cake (for co-worker birthday) then go to the bar where you know everyone. My ONE hour turned into five. I do know that during those five hours I announced to people that I was going to go home and bake a cake in heels becuase that is what good Republican women do.
I did it, but just not in the best condition - luckily the cake turned out to be a hit.
(The walking to metro and back was due to me forgetting to close my tab, so I had to go back, just don't tell AB I walked back from the bar seeing he was kind enough to make sure I got to the metro safe. No worries - RO drove me home, hence the late night Taco Bell run.)
5-6 pm – Drink at 4 Courts
6:30-10 pm – Drink at Pour House and Top of the Hill
10ish pm– Walk to metro
10ish later pm – Walk back to bar
10ish-11 pm – Stare at other people drinking
11 pm – Eat Taco Bell
12 am – Talk to roommate/shower/go to bed
4 am – Wake up
4:30 am – Still awake
5 am – Getting frustrated, buzz finally leaving, headache starting
5:30 am – Get out of bed and go bake a cake
6 am – Workout
7 am – Finish cake – get ready for work
8 am – Leave for work carrying cake
*******Tired blur and a lot of talking**********
1:30 pm – Go crazy with boss and co-workers…we had a mini bowling tournament
Lesson Learned:
Never promise to bake a cake (for co-worker birthday) then go to the bar where you know everyone. My ONE hour turned into five. I do know that during those five hours I announced to people that I was going to go home and bake a cake in heels becuase that is what good Republican women do.
I did it, but just not in the best condition - luckily the cake turned out to be a hit.
(The walking to metro and back was due to me forgetting to close my tab, so I had to go back, just don't tell AB I walked back from the bar seeing he was kind enough to make sure I got to the metro safe. No worries - RO drove me home, hence the late night Taco Bell run.)
10.18.2006
Science
And they say my industry doesn’t care. I’m going through some patent reviews for milk protein and came upon one titled Instant healthcare tea formulation for relieving the effect of alcohol. “Hmm……interesting,” I thought. I guess this protein in the tea granules (which include caseinate phosphopeptides) has a special effect of neutralizing the effect of alcoholic drinks.
Isn’t that cool!? Science!
Isn’t that cool!? Science!
Remember When We Had the Little Brown Jug?
Dear Glen Mason,
Thank you, Glen Mason, for everything that you have given the U of M football team. I know you work so hard to give us the best there is.
Yeah right.
I’ve been a devoted Gopher fan since the day I’ve arrived on this earth (even during my two year stint at ISU). I’ve gone to games/matches, wore my maroon and gold and, yes, even traveled to crazy places to cheer on my Gophers. Rarely was I ever let down…..that is, with wrestling, basketball, hockey, track and volleyball. But I guess I can thank you for being the one coach that I can always count on – to lose. You have the ability to lose games that would seem impossible for a top Big Ten school. You lost to Purdue. Even Purdue Alumni (I have evidence) were amazed by that.
So you stink at coaching. That is okay, just admit it. I know it’s tough but the first step that you need to take is the ‘accepting that you really stink.’ You’re lucky that our Athletic Dept has nothing better to do than to renew your contract (one really sad note: even MY MOM thinks that is ridiculous and she’s not even a big Gopher Football fan).
Okay – I know that admitting something such as you stink at coaching after a solid 21 years of doing it can be tough. But please, for the love of all that is right in college sports, especially Big Ten, don’t turn the story around on the fans. Lord, your lucky you even have fans a the games. Hint: we come because we think college football is one of the greatest things out there….and we love our alma mater – not you. I understand that you were “upset” with some of the fans at the Penn State game because they booed at you. Ummmm….buddy, there will always be booing, as long as you’re coaching. I do know a way that you can stop it though. Be a better coach, or wait! No! Move on. Yes, that would be a better idea.
Also, please don’t go blaming the alcohol as the factor for the booing. I was there and I wasn’t drinking – BUT I WAS booing. At you. Oh my gosh! I’m sorry, was that rude of me? No. I paid to be there and I saw a crappy ending to what could’ve been a solid game. I believe I had the right to boo, just like I had the right to cheer (which I also did). And don’t worry – we’re not just complaining about you at the games, we spread our message whenever and wherever possible. I was at a restaurant several hours after our Penn State loss and heard a lady complaining about the lack of coaching you provide. Again, my apologies, but that’s what the consensus is. If you can’t accept it, that’s your tough luck.
Another thing – please don’t talk about how many bowl games we’ve been too. I’m not a college football expert, I’ll admit it, but I will admit we don’t deserve a bowl game with the type of schedule that you put together. I had to take five glances at this years schedule before I could even fathom the idea that we’re playing NDSU. NDSU!? Come on! My old AA MSHL football team could beat them. That is so sad. (I believe I just shed a tear over that.)
My point is, Mr. Mason, we don’t like your coaching. We’re fans of the game, but not fans of you. You put together stinky seasons and seem to not make the best use of the team you have and that makes us look bad. If we’re going to lose let’s lose to the best of them. It’s more embarrassing getting a bowl game (that seems made up…I’m banking on something like the Rice-A-Roni Bowl Game this year) out of a petty schedule than not getting a bowl game because we had a tough season.
So please, don’t go blaming the fans or the alcohol (which helps many of us make it through one of your games). Blame yourself for not listening to our pleas. We love our school and college sports and only want the best for them, but your not it.
In Gopher Spirit –
C.
2005 U of M Graduate
Thank you, Glen Mason, for everything that you have given the U of M football team. I know you work so hard to give us the best there is.
Yeah right.
I’ve been a devoted Gopher fan since the day I’ve arrived on this earth (even during my two year stint at ISU). I’ve gone to games/matches, wore my maroon and gold and, yes, even traveled to crazy places to cheer on my Gophers. Rarely was I ever let down…..that is, with wrestling, basketball, hockey, track and volleyball. But I guess I can thank you for being the one coach that I can always count on – to lose. You have the ability to lose games that would seem impossible for a top Big Ten school. You lost to Purdue. Even Purdue Alumni (I have evidence) were amazed by that.
So you stink at coaching. That is okay, just admit it. I know it’s tough but the first step that you need to take is the ‘accepting that you really stink.’ You’re lucky that our Athletic Dept has nothing better to do than to renew your contract (one really sad note: even MY MOM thinks that is ridiculous and she’s not even a big Gopher Football fan).
Okay – I know that admitting something such as you stink at coaching after a solid 21 years of doing it can be tough. But please, for the love of all that is right in college sports, especially Big Ten, don’t turn the story around on the fans. Lord, your lucky you even have fans a the games. Hint: we come because we think college football is one of the greatest things out there….and we love our alma mater – not you. I understand that you were “upset” with some of the fans at the Penn State game because they booed at you. Ummmm….buddy, there will always be booing, as long as you’re coaching. I do know a way that you can stop it though. Be a better coach, or wait! No! Move on. Yes, that would be a better idea.
Also, please don’t go blaming the alcohol as the factor for the booing. I was there and I wasn’t drinking – BUT I WAS booing. At you. Oh my gosh! I’m sorry, was that rude of me? No. I paid to be there and I saw a crappy ending to what could’ve been a solid game. I believe I had the right to boo, just like I had the right to cheer (which I also did). And don’t worry – we’re not just complaining about you at the games, we spread our message whenever and wherever possible. I was at a restaurant several hours after our Penn State loss and heard a lady complaining about the lack of coaching you provide. Again, my apologies, but that’s what the consensus is. If you can’t accept it, that’s your tough luck.
Another thing – please don’t talk about how many bowl games we’ve been too. I’m not a college football expert, I’ll admit it, but I will admit we don’t deserve a bowl game with the type of schedule that you put together. I had to take five glances at this years schedule before I could even fathom the idea that we’re playing NDSU. NDSU!? Come on! My old AA MSHL football team could beat them. That is so sad. (I believe I just shed a tear over that.)
My point is, Mr. Mason, we don’t like your coaching. We’re fans of the game, but not fans of you. You put together stinky seasons and seem to not make the best use of the team you have and that makes us look bad. If we’re going to lose let’s lose to the best of them. It’s more embarrassing getting a bowl game (that seems made up…I’m banking on something like the Rice-A-Roni Bowl Game this year) out of a petty schedule than not getting a bowl game because we had a tough season.
So please, don’t go blaming the fans or the alcohol (which helps many of us make it through one of your games). Blame yourself for not listening to our pleas. We love our school and college sports and only want the best for them, but your not it.
In Gopher Spirit –
C.
2005 U of M Graduate
10.15.2006
Next time I'll have a taser.
I'm upset. Very upset. Today when walking to my car after church I noticed something was missing [on my car]. It was my W is still the President sticker. Some jerk ripped it off (obviously). I couldn't believe it. I felt so violated. Granted it's amazing that it made it almost a solid two years, but still. Dumbasses. I swore, drove home like a maniac and told everyone I knew who would care about it. I was in such rage that I almost went and knocked on some of my neighbors doors and start yelling. Not to worry - I didn't. Instead I sat by my phone and waited for my parents to get out of church so I could call them and bitch.
I don't care who you are, what you vote and so on and so forth. No matter what, that was a very wrong thing to do. You don't see me going up to cars and ripping stuff off of them. I will laugh at those with their Kerry/Edwards stickers still on their cars but I don't do anything to them. (Side note: Seriously people, it's been two years, he lost, move on. At least my sticker was relavent).
I asked for some of the peoples advice on how to handle it and here is what I got -
1) Tear down a Webb sign (I have a feeling that won't accomplish much)
2) Get over it (option from mom)
4) Kick a Dem
I didn't like any of the suggestions....they were too lame and not very fun(Plus, I have a lot of Dem friends so that wouldn't be nice). Kicking someone seemed fun, but then I'm sure they would have kicked me back harder.
So I devised a plan. I've already got another sticker which I'll apply again to my car(hey - I've got another two years for this). Then I'll hide in the bushes waiting for the culprit. It'll probably be night and I'm guranteeing that it will happen after a night out on the town (i.e. bar). So I'll be waiting there in the bushes. So when the jerk comes to do it again, I'll jump out, yell "Don't mess with Texas!" and taser his/her sorry ass.
Ok....I won't be doing that.
But we can dream can't we?
Stupid "Compassionate Conservative" crap.
I don't care who you are, what you vote and so on and so forth. No matter what, that was a very wrong thing to do. You don't see me going up to cars and ripping stuff off of them. I will laugh at those with their Kerry/Edwards stickers still on their cars but I don't do anything to them. (Side note: Seriously people, it's been two years, he lost, move on. At least my sticker was relavent).
I asked for some of the peoples advice on how to handle it and here is what I got -
1) Tear down a Webb sign (I have a feeling that won't accomplish much)
2) Get over it (option from mom)
4) Kick a Dem
I didn't like any of the suggestions....they were too lame and not very fun(Plus, I have a lot of Dem friends so that wouldn't be nice). Kicking someone seemed fun, but then I'm sure they would have kicked me back harder.
So I devised a plan. I've already got another sticker which I'll apply again to my car(hey - I've got another two years for this). Then I'll hide in the bushes waiting for the culprit. It'll probably be night and I'm guranteeing that it will happen after a night out on the town (i.e. bar). So I'll be waiting there in the bushes. So when the jerk comes to do it again, I'll jump out, yell "Don't mess with Texas!" and taser his/her sorry ass.
Ok....I won't be doing that.
But we can dream can't we?
Stupid "Compassionate Conservative" crap.
10.12.2006
Obsessions
After landing at the Humphrey Terminal and finding out that my ride wasn’t on time I decided to wait it out at the bar for a bit and watch some baseball. (It was depressing cause that was the night when the Twins lost their 3rd straight game to the Oakland A’s). So I’m sitting there and pouting when a couple came up to me. I noticed that they wanted to sit down but my stuff was taking up all of the space. So I quickly gathered it up and gave them some room. I only got a glimpse of them before turning back and focusing on the screen. Soon after the lady tapped my shoulder and said, “Are you from Rice Co.?” I turned and here it was a mom of some kids that I used to show dairy cows with (it’s okay to laugh, but yes, I showed dairy cows for a solid 15 years). We laughed and caught up on where her kids are at and what I’m doing. Next thing I know she’s poking her boyfriend and saying “The best memory that I have of Cass is when she would sing Patsy Cline songs for Performing Arts.”
I turned about five shades of red and asked for her not to ever mention that again. I don’t know if I was more embarrassed that she remembered that (of all things) or the fact that I STILL sing Patsy and she’s not the only person who remembers me for that. I guess some obsessions die hard. As I was recalling that (I’ve been obsessed with Patsy Cline music since I was around 10 years old) I have found that my obsessions today basically started at a young age and have yet to change. For instance, I’m still obsessed with Ronald Reagan (I chose to have my photo taken with his cutout instead of Michael Jackson when I was 9 because Ronnie was “So much cooler.”). Now I have a the Time commemorative issue of Ronald framed and hanging in
my bedroom and a book of pictures of him during his Presidency.
Another obsession – wrestling. Not that fake crap but the Greco-Roman style done in college. My family has been going to Gopher wrestling since the beginning of time. It’s literally our one huge family thing we do. And to top that off, there is one wrestler in particular that I’ve been a little insane for. I watched him wrestle since we were both freshman in high school and then throughout his career with the Gophers. Even after a little ‘research’ when I found out that he doesn’t like to read and looked like he had the IQ of a 6th grader, I was still obsessed. I’m starting to let go of him but definitely not Gopher Wrestling. And yes, I hate posters, that is, unless it’s a poster of the Gopher Wrestling team which dawns my bedroom door.
My final obsession is agriculture; more specifically, dairy. It’s guaranteed that if you’ve known me longer than a minute, you probably know the industry from top to bottom and have discussed your daily consumption (3-A-Day of Dairy) with me. This is one obsession that I’ve attempted to kill a number of times to make myself look more ‘urbane’ but we all know that will never happen. I’m glad that is true seeing that was the lifestyle in which I was lucky to grow-up in. Yes, my brothers and I were a little odd because most of our time was spent working/playing on a farm and we were driving tractors and farm vehicles before we could see above the dashboard (I used a phone book as a booster). Or the fact that I read farm magazines from a young age (and still do now). And perhaps arguing with people about which breed/type of tractor/make of a truck is better. But beyond that, nothing too strange there *hehe*
Looking back, maybe I shouldn’t be so damn embarrassed of my obsessions. It shows that I’m fairly well-rounded (i.e. I like sports, politics, the arts and agriculture). I feel a little better. I think I’m going to throw on my Patsy now and get back to reading about the upcoming season for the wrestling team while listening to MSNBC.
I turned about five shades of red and asked for her not to ever mention that again. I don’t know if I was more embarrassed that she remembered that (of all things) or the fact that I STILL sing Patsy and she’s not the only person who remembers me for that. I guess some obsessions die hard. As I was recalling that (I’ve been obsessed with Patsy Cline music since I was around 10 years old) I have found that my obsessions today basically started at a young age and have yet to change. For instance, I’m still obsessed with Ronald Reagan (I chose to have my photo taken with his cutout instead of Michael Jackson when I was 9 because Ronnie was “So much cooler.”). Now I have a the Time commemorative issue of Ronald framed and hanging in
my bedroom and a book of pictures of him during his Presidency. Another obsession – wrestling. Not that fake crap but the Greco-Roman style done in college. My family has been going to Gopher wrestling since the beginning of time. It’s literally our one huge family thing we do. And to top that off, there is one wrestler in particular that I’ve been a little insane for. I watched him wrestle since we were both freshman in high school and then throughout his career with the Gophers. Even after a little ‘research’ when I found out that he doesn’t like to read and looked like he had the IQ of a 6th grader, I was still obsessed. I’m starting to let go of him but definitely not Gopher Wrestling. And yes, I hate posters, that is, unless it’s a poster of the Gopher Wrestling team which dawns my bedroom door.
My final obsession is agriculture; more specifically, dairy. It’s guaranteed that if you’ve known me longer than a minute, you probably know the industry from top to bottom and have discussed your daily consumption (3-A-Day of Dairy) with me. This is one obsession that I’ve attempted to kill a number of times to make myself look more ‘urbane’ but we all know that will never happen. I’m glad that is true seeing that was the lifestyle in which I was lucky to grow-up in. Yes, my brothers and I were a little odd because most of our time was spent working/playing on a farm and we were driving tractors and farm vehicles before we could see above the dashboard (I used a phone book as a booster). Or the fact that I read farm magazines from a young age (and still do now). And perhaps arguing with people about which breed/type of tractor/make of a truck is better. But beyond that, nothing too strange there *hehe*
Looking back, maybe I shouldn’t be so damn embarrassed of my obsessions. It shows that I’m fairly well-rounded (i.e. I like sports, politics, the arts and agriculture). I feel a little better. I think I’m going to throw on my Patsy now and get back to reading about the upcoming season for the wrestling team while listening to MSNBC.
10.10.2006
This One's for You Cus
Vacation was in order. No staying in the beltway this past weekend. Between the scandal and the never-ending “n” word and macaca debates with the VA Senate race I had needed to leave. Plus, I had another good reason (besides seeing family and friends and going to a Gopher football game)…it’s thriftier to go out in Minneapolis. I also found it amusing that it’s cheaper to get trashed on Sun Country airlines than it is in DC. I didn’t do it, but I did the math and was astonished. Go Sun Country.
As I had said, I’m tired of some of the political crap taking place out there so going to MN was a good excuse. It was much unexpected and a last minute decision based solely for pleasure. I had nothing in mind except to hangout and surprise the family. And that I was able to accomplish. I spent so much quality time with the family that I finally figured out why the hell I am the way I am.
We seem like a normal family at first glance but then you take a second look and then proceed to shaking of the head. Now I’m convinced that most families are just as odd but then there is that one moment when my family will outshine any other in the ‘eccentric’ round. This time was our October Birthday party. Since there are so many of us cousins (21 to be exact) we clump together the birthdays…..only one cousin gets to celebrate their b-day alone and of course that is me. But that is beside the point. Anyway, so I made it home for the October birthday party which in turn turned out to be more like an Oktoberfest for the family. It was freezing and 3 days away from MN’s first predicted snowfall….and it was to rain, but did we care? No. Instead we got extra blankets and booze to keep us warm as we all piled onto the wagon behind the old school Massey tractor for a family hayride. (We’re talking a wagon loaded down with over 45 people between the ages of 5-79).
My uncle driving the tractor was clad in old H.S. jacket, a hood and smoking a cigar like it was going out of style. He of course didn’t hear our yells as we kept getting whacked by tree limbs. There was a point when I thought we were going to lose the youngest to a small sapling, but my brother saved him just in time. To top it all off, it then started to rain heavily. Our only way of solving our dilemma was not by turning around and heading to shelter, no, it was by taking out the bottle of schnapps and declaring it was to be finished before getting back to the house (1.5 miles away). That was when the team effort kicked in. We’re a solid 50 feet from the house when we see that there was a few ounces left; I, of all people, suggest that Grandma should finish it off. I meant it kind of as a joke, but grandma didn’t hesitate. With our cheers she took one for the team. That was when I realized that I can now officially blame my genetics for the craziness that I exert.
This might explain why out of the all of the cousins that are 21 or older – ONLY ONE is married and has kids. (note: that family was not present for this day)
I don’t understand us. We’re above average students and none of us have ever gotten into trouble. But yet we seem to have a difficult time in graduating college in that little 4 year period. (I’m lying….only 5 of us seem to have had that problem) We also have a hard time settling down. The majority of us get into a serious relationship and then dump it soon after. It’s a fulltime job keeping up with who’s dating and who’s single. I just guess now. If a girlfriend/boyfriend shows up, we don’t latch on too fast because more than likely that person will not make it to the next shin-dig (which will take place only a few weeks later).
I’m actually happy that my entire family is like this. It makes me feel and look normal….we value success in jobs and schooling more than things like relationships and kids. Also, they don’t expect me to come to functions all prim and proper (okay sometimes we’re a snobby wine and cheese family but even then our problems start to shine through).
I love my cousins for all that they are, even with all of the stupid stuff that has gone down over the years. Surprisingly – we are all on a similar track and enjoy hanging out more now than we did when we were in diapers.
As I had said, I’m tired of some of the political crap taking place out there so going to MN was a good excuse. It was much unexpected and a last minute decision based solely for pleasure. I had nothing in mind except to hangout and surprise the family. And that I was able to accomplish. I spent so much quality time with the family that I finally figured out why the hell I am the way I am.
We seem like a normal family at first glance but then you take a second look and then proceed to shaking of the head. Now I’m convinced that most families are just as odd but then there is that one moment when my family will outshine any other in the ‘eccentric’ round. This time was our October Birthday party. Since there are so many of us cousins (21 to be exact) we clump together the birthdays…..only one cousin gets to celebrate their b-day alone and of course that is me. But that is beside the point. Anyway, so I made it home for the October birthday party which in turn turned out to be more like an Oktoberfest for the family. It was freezing and 3 days away from MN’s first predicted snowfall….and it was to rain, but did we care? No. Instead we got extra blankets and booze to keep us warm as we all piled onto the wagon behind the old school Massey tractor for a family hayride. (We’re talking a wagon loaded down with over 45 people between the ages of 5-79).
My uncle driving the tractor was clad in old H.S. jacket, a hood and smoking a cigar like it was going out of style. He of course didn’t hear our yells as we kept getting whacked by tree limbs. There was a point when I thought we were going to lose the youngest to a small sapling, but my brother saved him just in time. To top it all off, it then started to rain heavily. Our only way of solving our dilemma was not by turning around and heading to shelter, no, it was by taking out the bottle of schnapps and declaring it was to be finished before getting back to the house (1.5 miles away). That was when the team effort kicked in. We’re a solid 50 feet from the house when we see that there was a few ounces left; I, of all people, suggest that Grandma should finish it off. I meant it kind of as a joke, but grandma didn’t hesitate. With our cheers she took one for the team. That was when I realized that I can now officially blame my genetics for the craziness that I exert.
This might explain why out of the all of the cousins that are 21 or older – ONLY ONE is married and has kids. (note: that family was not present for this day)
I don’t understand us. We’re above average students and none of us have ever gotten into trouble. But yet we seem to have a difficult time in graduating college in that little 4 year period. (I’m lying….only 5 of us seem to have had that problem) We also have a hard time settling down. The majority of us get into a serious relationship and then dump it soon after. It’s a fulltime job keeping up with who’s dating and who’s single. I just guess now. If a girlfriend/boyfriend shows up, we don’t latch on too fast because more than likely that person will not make it to the next shin-dig (which will take place only a few weeks later).
I’m actually happy that my entire family is like this. It makes me feel and look normal….we value success in jobs and schooling more than things like relationships and kids. Also, they don’t expect me to come to functions all prim and proper (okay sometimes we’re a snobby wine and cheese family but even then our problems start to shine through).
I love my cousins for all that they are, even with all of the stupid stuff that has gone down over the years. Surprisingly – we are all on a similar track and enjoy hanging out more now than we did when we were in diapers.
10.01.2006
I'm All Grown-up......Almost
Okay I may not be totally grown-up but I feel like I'm making progress. The the sign that I was maturing came when I realized that I had one of the most amazing weekends of my life and not one lick of alcohol touched my lips during it. Now don't get me wrong, I haven't stopped drinking; we all know that will be a cold day in hell when that happens. But I am slowly working away from things in the possible future such as my children knowing the differnce between a martini and a cosmo before knowing how to add 1 + 1. Or my husband explaining to the children why mommy is slurring the words during their bedtime story.
This past weekend I ended up putting in over 16 solid hours of volunteer work for the DC MS Challenge Walk. It was a 3 day walk covering 50 miles from northern VA up to the Capitol. I didn't walk it but the 350 people who did were amazing. I got to meet a huge variety of people that truly touched my heart. Majority of them are in the same boat as me, having someone close to them (for me, my father) who has multiple sclerosis. So not only was it a physically draining challenge but it was very emotional. I cried a few times. Mostly because I was amazed by the commitment that people have towards finding a cure for it, but also because it's finally starting to sink in that my father has MS.
That was another turning point for me on the maturity scale when I actually accepted the fact that my parents aren't getting any younger. It's been over a year now since we've discovered my father's condition. I had accepted it but I didn't take in all that was to come with the package. The first few months I didn't notice anything different, but then it was after I left and had longer periods of time in-between seeing him that I started to notice. He's getting a bit stiff...such as he can't walk very well. Also he gets tired very easily. So to see all of these supporters AND people WITH MS doing that 50 mile walk, I was over-joyed/amazed/emotional and everything in between.
The walk also allowed for me to meet a lot of fun people such as the couple from Michigan who bantered back and forth with me about who was gonna get the Little Brown Jug (they even came up to me and apolozied today). Or the lady who came all the way from MN for the walk...when I found out she loved the Twins I plowed her over with a hug. Let's not forget Doug who read my MN Hockey sweatshirt as MN Hickey....and proceeded to ask for one. And my last but not least - favorites were the GW MBA student volunteers. They were amazing help and made my weekend exiciting and entertaining beyond belief.
I thought I had the greatest weekend ever until....
I got home from my MS stuff and turned on the TV and found that my Twins were winning and ended up(after what seemed like enternity waiting for the Tigers to lose to KC) clinching the AL Central Division Title....I believe I got a little taste of what Heaven may be like.
(Okay this is just a 'taste of Heaven' cause my real Heaven must include a World Series, a real cure for MS and me being very, very well off with an adorable husband.... really, that's not asking for much!)
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