Baltimore

So, yesterday I met this guy that I met on match.com. His name is Shaun. We met at a little coffee shop, sat there for a while, then decided what to do next. There wasn't much to do in Hagerstown, becuase it was raining, and getting cold/windy. So, we decided to head to Baltimore.

As we were leaving town, it was getting sunnier, and warmer. It was nice in Baltimore. We headed to the Inner Harbor and hung out there all day.

I got to go to my first Hard Rock Cafe. I had never been to one before. So, as he was suggesting places to eat, I stopped him right there, and said we had to go.

That was fun. Of course, since I have been sick all week, I didn't get to enjoy it nearly as much as I would have liked.

Then, we went to the Aquarium. That was fun. I haven't been to an aquarium in years. We also stayed and watched the dolphin show. Man, are those dolphins so cute, and talented. It was pretty short though, I wish it was longer. Oh well.

Then, we walked the pier for a while, and decided to head back to Hagerstown to catch a movie. Well, when we go there, all the movies started at ten and we were there at like 8:20. So, we decided to get dinner.

Went to Ruby Tuesday. Again, didn't enjoy it nearly as much as I would have liked to. I am sure I will get over this soon. Just the post sickness stomach cramps hurt really bad, and knock the appetite right out of me. Well, by the end of the meal, we sat and talked to waste some time before the movie. It took forever for the waiter to bring the check, then we never saw him or anyone else again. So, we left. Yup. Dine'n'dash. I had never done it before, but it was kind of fun. Of course, I doubt I will do it again, but everybody's got to do it at least once in their life.

The movie. It was good. We saw The number 23 with Jim Carrey. I really like him in more serious roles. It was good, but Boy was I tired by the end of the night. Night ended at about 12:30 am, but the time I got home and in bed, it was about 1am. I had to get up for work at 5:30...I pushed it till 6 am this morning. :)

But, next up...New York City. Here I come!!! I cannot wait. My plane leaves 7am tomorrow morning. I have to get up at 4 am to leave and get to DC in time. Yeah for me!

Don't worry. I will post pictures soon. I don't have any way to get them to my computer, so I have to wait till I have enough to put on a disc. I bet after NY, I will go get them ready for uploading.

More flowers for me!!

I work for the best company ever!

While I was sick, my recruiter, Eric, sent me a e-Hallmark card, telling me to rest and relax, and get better. Also, as I mentioned before, the hospital where I am working, brought me a get well care package.

Well, today I had a knock on the door, and it was some flowers. A beautiful get well bouquet of wild flowers, from Eric, and my travel liaison, Allison.

How cool is that?

Better

I feel better today. I actually feel like I could eat/drink without any problems. I still feel weak, and I slept in until 1130am, but I feel better. I was worried my night of sleep was gonna be like it had been all day, wake up every hour. It started out like that, but after about 11 or 12, I slept till 730 this morning.
I hurt all over from sleeping/laying too much, but I just feel so weak standing and sitting. I hope that passes soon. Off to eat some chicken soup.

I *think* it finally stopped

So, it is 5:30 now. I have kept some water down for at least 4 hours. Yeah!

This whole time I was freezing cold, and I am finally warm again. I am gonna try to eat some food. Oh yeah. I almost forgot. My new hospital is awesome.

I called about 1 o'clock to get some advice from the nurse contact I have there. And, she sent someone over with two cans of chicken noodle soup, some cracker, and some jello.

How cool is that? I mean, not only did I call in sick and make it so they have to have a crappy day, but they went out of their way to make sure that I had some "comfort" food, and that I would be okay.

Wow. Talk about God's wonderful children. Thanks!!

The Good Ol' PB

No, it doesn't stand for peanut butter. It stands for Pepto Bismol.

I love that stuff.

Unfortunately, I don't seem to have that same excitement when I wake up at 5 am, sick to my stomach, weak, and shaking. And I don't have ANY PB in the apt.

So, I wake up thinking, this too will pass. It didn't. So, I called work, letting them know I wasn't going to make it in today. They seemed nice about it, but you never know what they are thinking.

I got dressed, made my way to my car, headed to the store.

First stop Weis Markets. It is the grocery store just around the corner. But, I pulled up at 5:30am, and they don't open until 6. Yeah for me.

So, I headed to the nearest gas station, and they were open, and had a small bottle for sale. I say "I'll take it."

That will be $3.59 please. Oh my goodness....I can buy three regular sized bottles at that price from the store. But, I don't care. I am sick, and I want my comfort PB.

I head back home, and as I am walking up to the door, I am feeling really sick. As I get in the door I have just enough time to throw my coat on the floor and run to the bathroom. Short of going into details of what happened in there....the toilet was my friend.

So, afterwards, I don't feel sick anymore. Of course that is the way it usually works. But, because I felt instantly better, it led me to believe it was something I ate. I had a tuna sandwich last night for dinner. I didn't think tuna went bad, does it?

Well, even though I felt better, I still took my PB. I thought about calling work back to say I could come in now, but I think I will take the day to sleep, and get better. You always feel weak after throwing up. It just takes so much out of you.

I have a couple days off after today, so I might work a shift to make up for today. My job requires me to make up hours not worked. Of course, I have put in plenty of extra hours...I wonder if those will count toward make-up. I don't know.

I am off to bed to get some sleep. I feel better, but a little bit of "uncomfortable-ness" is starting again. I hope it passes.

UPDATE: (9am) Still at it, that makes three trips to the bathroom.

Brandi's Blog

Brandi, if you are reading this...I can't read your blog. Please send me an email, so I can read your blog. I miss hearing how McKenna is growing. It says I have to be on the "list" of acceptable readers. Of course, that is if you still want me to read it. :)

It's Snowing...Again

I can't believe it. I thought we were done with this mess. I woke up this morning, and it had freezing rained (that didnt sound right, but oh well). The weather man was right. HE said it would be a wintry mix early am, and into late morning. But by morning, would be over.

Well, After I got up this morning, I noticed it has started to lightly snow. Ok. No big deal. It will be over soon.

WRONG!

I decided to go back to bed for an hour or so. Now, as I wake up (okay a few hours later, it wasn't just an hour. You would think I would learn, but I don't), it is heavily snowing and an inch or two is accumulated on my car.

Still snowing hard as I write this. So, I am going to go take a shower, get dressed, and go somewhere, because I do not want to get snowed in again. I had better get going, or there will be four inches on my car soon.

Almost Home

I was just about to purchase a ticket to come home. I found a $400 round trip ticket into Pasco. I had assigned my seating, it was a perfect flight. I was just about ready to push purchase...then I didn't.

I am sorry mom. I can't come home. I came here to have fun on my days off, and if I use my 4-day-in-a-row to come home, then that will take away from seeing something here.

I haven't decided what to do yet on those four days, but I am sure I will go somewhere. Maybe back to New York, maybe somewhere else.

I really miss everyone at home, but I have only been gone for a month. I can last just a little longer. Please give my Grason and Kaitlyn big kisses for me. I miss them so much. (And everyone else too).

Love you all bunches...

What is it with Credit Cards?

I am currently working really hard to get my credit cards paid off. Matter of fact, I am about 4 weeks away from having them ALL paid off.

The point of this post...I just noticed my credit limit shot up about $5000 on each credit card. There are two from the same bank. How come when I needed the extra credit, and I promised it would get paid back, they wouldn't give it to me. Now, when I don't need it, they don't have any problem jacking up my credit limit.

What is up with these people? I swear. Now, I have to make a call to the bank, telling them to lower my credit limit, because I don't want all that "possible" money hanging over my head. I know in the business world there are names for all these things...but I don't care. All I know is I don't want it.

Happy Birthday MOM!!

Happy Birthday Mom!!





I love you!! I hope you have the bestest day ever.

Trip through Amish Country

I just made reservations to stay in Lancaster, PA. It is really close to Amish Country, so I will get to see it up close and personal. I have always admired their way of living, and thought it would be cool to really see them.

I won't be able to take pics of them because they believe that you hold the soul if they are in pictures...something about souls, and not believing in pictures. Ok, so some things I don't agree with, but still. I need to respect their choices.

My trip. I am gonna head up to Gettysburg, Pa. Spend half a day touring that area. Then head up to Lancaster. Stay in a guest room of a working farm. The owners are Mennonites. They have a guest room, named "Pigs Palace" I reserved that room. Yippee. Unfortunately they don't have any real pigs on their farm, but goats and horses, and chickens, and um, maybe cows. I can't remember. I would love to learn how to milk a cow. It just seems cool, and something I have never done before.

Then, I will head up the next day to Philadelphia. Stay one night there, then come home Sunday night. This will all take place March 16-18. Yeah. I am so excited. I have me another trip planned.

Now, I have to decide when to go to DC.

The annual Cherry Blossom Festival is March 31-April 15th. With a parade on Saturday April 14th. It would be cool to go during that time, so I will have to see. I may go once before then, and go again during the festival. I think it will be really pretty, and I head the festival is cool, and they have special exhibits at the museums during that time.

Ching, Ching $$

I have decided to pick up an additional shift. I will do an extra day shift on Thursday. I haven't felt burned out yet (way too early for that), so I still like coming to work. Plus, when it is bad weather, I would rather be working, making contacts, and more importantly, making money.

Ching, Ching. $$$$

I will just rack up the money. I love it. Since I am working a night shift right now, it won't really even seem like extra shifts.

Tonight I am doing ok. I am just past half way, and approaching the push hour. Usually from 3-5, I have to really keep myself awake, but I think I will do okay tonight.

Addendum: (5am) Yeah!! I did ok, now I just have afew more things to do, give report to the next nurse, and go home. Yippee!!

I'm out

I finally got out of my parking space. The maintenance crew was driving by, and I asked if I could use their shovel. They offered to come help me. Yeah.

It didn't take too long either. A little shovel here, a little shovel there, and a big push, and I was out. Yippee!!

I got to go to the store today, got some stuff. Bought a new pair of tennie runners, and got my brows done.

I was only out for a few hours, because I didn't get started until about 3, as I took a nap because of my night shift tonight. So, it was nice to be able to get a few hours before working tonight. Which I am off to, before I am late! Tata!

Another change

I have agreed, yet again, to switch shifts. I was supposed to work tomorrow, but they called me today and asked if I would be willing to work tonight, and have tomorrow off. Good thing is...if I have tomorrow off, I get three days off in a row, but I have to sleep all day, so that throws things off, and basically cancels out that day.

Oh well. Today I took a little nap until 2. Now I am gonna go get my car out of the snow, head to the store, and maybe go out to eat dinner. That sounds good.

Mom, sorry but your card is going to be late. I appologize. It will get sent out today, but I think it will arrive a day late. I love you.

Have a great day/night all, I will see how my night shift goes. Hopefully it will go as smooth as last night shift, however I doubt I will have flowers waiting for me when I arrive. Oh well.

Ambulance

Yesterday I was headed to my car to see if I could get out of the snow yet. I wanted to go out to get a card for mom, and something for my friend, as she is having a baby in March. I wasn't getting anywhere with the car situation. I am still stuck. This week it is supposed to be in the 40-50's with one day high of 61 I think, so it will melt, and soon I will be able to move again.

Back to my story. Well, Hospital called and asked if I was able to do a transport. NOt quite sure what that meant, I said sure. She told me that someone in ER needed to be transported to a hospital in Baltimore, and they needed a Critical Care Nurse to ride with...just in case something happened.

So, I arrived at the hospital and met my patient. She is fairly young, and came in with chest pain. I think because of her insurance, she needed to go there. She needed to have a cardiac catheterization done on her heart, to see if/where a blockage was, and to hopefully fix it.

I had a non-eventful ride with my patient. I, on the other hand, didn't. There was a few times I got the icky feeling of "motion sickness". I felt bad for the paramedic in the cab, because he basicly now had two patients on his hands. I was riding in the back, on the side of the ambulance, and I could see out the front window, but all I could see is the side of the road rushing past. It was a very bumpy ride, and the wind was making the cab swerve. So, I think my motion sickness was well deserved. I don't think that is the word I am looking for, but you get my drift.

I switched places with the medic, so I could sit above the patient, and face forward. After that, smooth sailing. Didn't have any problems. Then on the way back, I sat up front and had a great conversation with the EMT. He is in nursing school, so we had a lot to talk about. He was really nice and very easy to talk to, so it was cool.

Overall, I got about 5 hours of extra work in yesterday, so that was cool. If I pick up an extra shift this week, then I will get some overtime. I like overtime. I don't like working for it, but it has to be done. I figure while it is icky, cold, and wet outside, I might as well work some extra shifts now, that way when I want to go play....I have some extra money. Sweet.

Extra

I am working extra today. YEsterday after my shift, I mistakenly offered that if there weren't enough people today, I would be willing to work extra.

The only reason I am saying I mistakenly did it, is because it is early, and I am tired. I am sure the day will go fine, and I will be happy that I worked extra. I figured, there is no reason I shouldn't do it. It is icky out again this weekend, at least supposed to be, and I will just stay in. So I might as well get some extra work in.

So, I am off to work this morning. I have to call security because my (rental) car is still snowed in, so I can't get anywhere. I hope they don't get mad for having to pick me up twice. I think the staffing office wasn't happy about it, but the security guard yesterday said he was more than willing, and I should call anytime I needed a ride.

So I am gonna call today, and if they have a problem with it, then I just will have to tell them that I can't come in extra then. Too bad.

Have a great day!

Happy Birthday to me!!

Tonight I arrived at work, okay yesterday night. And I introduce myself to a crew I have never met before. The first thing they say is...are you Kathleen S******, I say yes. They tell me I have a package that arrived today, over on the counter. I glance over and it is a box of flowers. I think to myself...I have no one that would send me a Valentine, why am I getting flowers...at work none-the-less. I was afraid to open it.

So I get report, and about an hour passes. Now my curiosity has gotten to me. I go ahead and open the box. Everyone waiting in anticipation. The card says Happy Birthday Kathleen! We appreciate all the hard work you do. Hope you have a fantastic day. From, Access Nurses.

How sweet. My company sent me tulips...they were pink tulips btw...to me at work on Valentine's Day. Of course, it isn't my birthday, so they obviously messed that one up. I will have to tell them. Of course, I will do it after expressing my great pleasure in receiving them.

My recruiter knows when my birthday is because he wished me Happy Birthday back in Jan, when it really was. Also, he called me today and wished me Happy Valentine's Day, so I am not sure why there is a mix up with the rest of the company. Oh well. I don't mind getting flowers...ever. I will post a pic of them as soon as I can.

Tonight's shift was awesome. Time went by really fast, and everyone is really nice. Oh yeah one more tid bit. I went outside about 6pm to leave early get to work and eat, and be ready to start by 6:30. Well, when I went outside my car was buried, there was no way I could get out of it. So, I locked my car, bundled up, and walked to work. Of course when I got there, I met someone from the place I am staying, just a few buildings away. She has offered to take me home. How sweet, I don't have to walk home in the cold. Actually it wasn't so bad. I stopped 3/4 of the way at McD's and got me some dinner. That helped me warm up a bit.

Well, I am still at work, and it is about time to give my 6 oclock meds and finish my notes, then I can go home. Night wasn't as bad as I remember it to be. Of course, if I do lots of them, it may start again.

Switch

Today the hospital called and asked if I would be willing to work tonight, instead of tomorrow. I didn't have anything going on today, so I agreed. I figure too many people called, and said they wouldn't be available to come to work because of the storm. Lots of the other nurses live in the outlying areas. Some have up to an hour commute. That really isn't possible in this storm. I think we got like 4 inches of snow, and last night/this morning it was freezing rain.
I on the other hand, live just half mile away, so I can go to work. They also said that if I wasn't able to drive, security would come to pick me up. That is sweet. I think I will be fine though. It really is just down the street.
So, today, when I need to take a nap...of course, I won't be able to. I think I am gonna go try to sleep for an hour or so. I haven't worked a night shift in a long time, so this may be a rude awakening for me. We will have to see.

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy

Happy Valentine's Day!!

No romantic date to report. No pretty roses on my doorstep this morning. No candy in the mailbox.

But I am ok with that. It is just another day, that is here. I have today off, so I might head out to shop the outlet mall, or maybe the Valley Mall. However, it is now freezing rain out there, so I think it best I stay inside for now.

Maybe that is why my roses and candy haven't arrived...hmmm?

Grrr

Still snowing. Luckily it is now a fine snow. Of course that is after a couple inches have fallen already. I haven't been outside yet, I decided to go take a nap. Yes. Just after I woke up. You know me.
It was only about an hour long, so not my usual.

Maybe I will go see if it is running weather...tata.

Snowed In

I guess I won't be going anywhere. The weatherman was actually right this time. There is a BIG winter storm hotting the Midwest ans stretching across over to Maryland, and Washington DC area. So, I don't want to go walking around DC in the snow and rain. So far, it has snowed here about an inch+, and its still going strong. Supposed to last all day, turning to freezing rain later in the day.
I can't believe it. I was looking forward to going and doing something on these days off. Oh well. I guess hot cocoa and movies will do too. Can't really go explore around here, because it is all wintery. I might go for a run if it is warm enough. 30's is good, 10-20's not good.
Of course, I haven't ran in over a month, so I am not sure how that will go. I need to get back into it soon though. It is making me so mad, I just keep eating and eating, and no running. I am gonna be back to where I was if I don't watch carefully. Jeffrey...I need to get started on that Meltdown Monday. I guess this Monday is as good as any to start. You have motivated me to get going on it.
Maybe tomorrow the snow will let up, and I can go to DC then. Of course the winter storm alert is in effect until 2pm EST tomorrow. Grrr!

A day in the life of the President

Okay, not really, it will be more like a day in the life of a tourist, but that wasn't as catchy of a title. I am sure you can guess...I am off to DC. I have a couple days off, and DC is just a few miles south of me. Okay...more like 70, but who's counting. There is a park/ride metro that I can get on just 50 miles away. That way I can pay WAY less for parking, and not have to deal with traffic.

I am so excited. I will just go for the day, and if I find I didn't have time to see/do all I want to see/do...then I can go again on Wednesday.

Don't worry, I will take pics. I have always wanted to go and sit on President Lincoln's lap. You know, the one with him in the big chair, in front of the Lincoln Memorial. At least, I think that is where it is at. Hehe. I will pretty dumb, if it isn't. Oh well, I have never been there before, so that is my excuse for not knowing.

So, wish me luck as my first sightseeing tour gets underway. I will leave here about 8:30 or 9, and be there by 10am. Don't worry, I will bring my pepperspray, but I doubt I will need it. Just in case though...I will have it!

5:30am

Wow. This sucks. I hate getting up early. Especially when I awoke almost every hour after getting to sleep at 1am. I think subconciously, I was afraid my alarm wasn't going to go off, or something. All I know, is I am DEAD tired, and I have to work today. Here goes nothing...

I'm going to NY

I just made reservations for my first trip to the big apple. I can't wait. I have a stretch of three days off in early March, and I am taking advantage of it. Yippee!!
I managed to get onto travelocity's website, thought I would check flight prices to NY from DC. $100 round trip. Wow, can't beat that. The next thing I know, I am checking out hotels, and costs. Then checking out attractions vouchers. Wow.
I am so excited. I am headed up on Monday March 5, returning March 7. I am staying at a Manhattan 2 star hotel. Nothing major, but I won't be in my hotel all that much. I also got a 3 day NY pass, that gets me into lots of cool attractions like Empire state bldg, Statue of Liberty, and lots of museums. I also reserved a dinner cruise (sounded like fun), a massage a fancy spa, broadway play ( I have ALWAYS wanted to go to a Broadway play), and then I will go visit Central Park, and just go visit places all over. I know I am not staying long, and I won't get to see it all. That is fine. I will go back. But, I just can't wait to go. I will see/do as much as I can. DOn't worry, I will take pictures.
Woohoo. NY City here I come!!

Angel of Death

So, I started my job yesterday. I think it is going to be good. I really like everyone that I will be working with...well at least those that I have met. YEsterday was paperwork day, and orinetation. Finished paperwork about 10 am, then headed to the PCU and worked with Sarah. She is really nice. I didn't really do much nursing, mostly just watching and seeing how things are done there.

Today I got to orient in ICU. I will be working days in either the ICU or the PCU. Sweet. I like switching, that way I don't get bored, and it keeps things interesting.

I did however, mess up already. I set my alarm last night, thought I turned it on, but apparently didn't. So this am, I wake up about 5:15, think...great, I have another 15 mins to snooze. So, I doze off, and wake up at 6:31. I am supposed to be at work by 6:30. So, my first day on the floor (still in orientation) and I am calling in late. I just about, actually, I did, bawl. It was horrible, I was so embarrassed. I don't live far, so washed my face, got dressed, brushed my teeth, and I was outta there. I was on the unit ready to work at 6:45. Record time.

Day went well. I had a patient that didn't do well. Due to confidentiality reasons, I can't divulge any more info, but my patient won't make it. I didn't do anything wrong, except bad luck. I was dealt the wrong hand. I haven't gotten the title Angel of Death yet, lets just hope my next patient is alive and well when I get done with them...or I just might become the "Angel of Death".

Basically a title we give to anyone who frequently gets patients who are about to die, or actually do die. I have many patients that have died, just not in a row, or not that frequently. So, here's hoping I don't get another one anytime soon, so that I don't get named appropriately.

I'm an East Coast gal

So, I am here. It was a long journey, but I made it. Yesterday I flew into Dulles Int'l Airport. That was a flight. Left Spokane, 2 hour + flight to Vegas, then had about one and half hour layover. I lost $20 on the slot machines. I had fun, so who cares, right? Then a 5 hour flight to DC from there. Got into town late last night. About 11:30 my (new) time. Took a shuttle bus to my hotel, couldn't sleep until about 4 am. Yuck. Then woke up at 8am, tried to sleep in till 9, then got up and got ready to go.

Called for a taxi. It was gonna be $74 to get a ride to the Greyhound station, for the second set of my journey. Yeah, like I have $75. So, I finally called around and found one for $55. It was right on the nose too. Total was $55.65 (after $2 baggae fee for excess baggage). He was great though, showed me the sites and pointed out what they were. Even gave me the low-down on what part of town to stay away from. He said if you find yourself in Southeast, turn around immediately, and get out. Too many innocent people get shot. He said thats were the mofia are. Scary, I know. The rest, all the other parts of town, he said were good. As long as I stay out of SE mom, I won't get shot. I hope! :)

Managed to get to Greyhound, the bus ride was semi-non-eventful. The only funny thing was when we reached the top of a hill, I saw a sign that read " Braddock Mountain, elev. 985 ft" Ha. You call that a mountain? That's the distance up my parents driveway. Okay, I am exaggerating a little (okay, a lot), but you get my point. Next hill was elev 1200 ft. A bit better, but not a mountain.

There was a McD's right by the station, but I didn't eat there, because I had too much luggage, and I was afraid of leaving it be while I standed in line. A lot of people were very helpful. While I was calling 411 for a taxi company, this lady handed me a phonebook. I called three cab companies before someone finally picked up. The gentlemen was very pleasant. The great thing was...cab ride only $5 even. There was no meter, I think anywhere in Hagerstown is $5. I might have to keep him in mind for later. He even helped carry my bags to my front door. Which brings me to my new furnished apt.

Certainly not an apt I would rent for myself. Then the furniture...well, think Grandma and you might have a good idea of what it looks like. However, the dresser, nightstand, and armoire are Stanley furniture. Very nice. I didn't know we made furniture, but ok. The bed...well, we will have to see. Some walls have a mint green paint on them. Nice touch, I like it. However, there is a smell. I can't pinpoint what it is, but it does smell. My guess I will get used to it. I don't want to, but I will.

I went ahead and unpacked what I brought. Deosn't seem like much, but it will do until my packages get here. I can't wait for them. At least I will have a few more things to make it feel like home. Oh, and I don't have a DVD player like they said, I have a VCR. Which is cool, I can record my shows, but how will Ibe able to watch all my DVD's that I brought along. Oh well, I will be too busy to watch tv. Yeah right. It's me were talking about.

Well, I am off to get some groceries, and explore my new city a bit. Not too many things terribly close, but I will get my exercise in.

Traveling

Travel day is here. I am off to Spokane to catch a plane to Washington DC. East Coast, here I come!!!

Plane leaves at 12:45 , and we still need to drive to Spokane. I have a few more things to take care of at home, then we are off. Mom is driving me, and Ashley has decided to come along. How nice.

Well better get going, see you on the other side!

My Bumper Sticker

Your Bumper Sticker Should Be

What if the hokey pokey really is what it's all about?

What Bumper Sticker Should Be On Your Car?

1st leg complete

The first leg of my journey is complete. I am home (permanent residence) in the TC for less than a week. I fly out for Maryland on Saturday. Didn't go too bad, the packing part. Mom and I got it all packed up, Dad and Joel packed it all into the truck, then we drove home. Mom and I stayed later to get it all cleaned up. We were there about an hour past the guys. HOwever, they were towing so had to go way slower, and needed to stop a few times for gas/potty breaks. We couldn't leave until noon, because the office didn't open until then, so we were really about 3 hours behind them. But, managed to pull in to Jen/Joel's place about 10 mins after they got there. We tried to catch them and pass them on the road, but didn't make it. Oh well. It would have been hilarious.

So, this week is relax, and more relax. I have a few errands to run, but other than that...relax. Last night I fell asleep on the couch at about 5 or 6, then Mom woke me up at 8:45 to go to bed. I got up around 10 am this morning. I guess I will a bit tired. Of course Joel, U.Jeff, and I went out to La Centre, WA for some gambling. We got home around 2, then Dad likes to get things started early, so was ready to go at 7:45 am. Grrr. Oh well. I had never gambled before, and I didn't have anything left in my apt Sat. night, so I decided to go out with them. I am glad I did too. No, I didn't win. But still had some fun. I set myself a limit, because I don't exactly have any money to be wasting. But I still had fun. If I was rich, and good at it, I might enjoy it more.

Well, I am off to snag up my Grason, and run a few errands. Have a great day. I should be getting my apt info pretty soon, so I will know where I am gonna live soon. Yippee!

Here goes nothing...

Moving weekend is here. Mom, Dad, and Joel arrived tonight after work. Tomorrow morning we pick up the UHaul trailer, then Dad and Joel will go golfing while Mom and I pack everything else up. It shouldn't take too long. I did get some stuff started. Then, Joel and Dad will help us pack it into the trailer, send some stuff to the Goodwill, and then Sunday I leave.

I can't believe the day is here. My last day of work was today. They had a card signed by everyone and some cake and food yesterday. A few people got me a little something, that was so nice. It is so sad to be leaving, but I am so excited to go!

Well, I had better get something more packed tonight, so I can surprise Mom with a little bit more done. Even if it is only one more box. They went to the hotel for an early bedtime. That does sound nice....bed...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

This is a marathon, not a sprint!

So, I got all the stuff that I will taking with me packed away into my suitcases, and 1 box that I will ship via UPS. Sweet, however, the rest is a lot to do. I couldn't get to sleep last night until about 2 or 3, so I slept until 11 am this morning, oops.
That is fine. Today I have to head to Portland for some physicals and drug screens. Yeah! However, I put some stuff up on craigs list again yesterday, and today is just about the only day people can come get. Except Saturday/Sunday, I guess they can come then. But, I head back to work tomorrow and Friday for my last two days of work. Yippee.
So, I slept in, now I have a guy coming at 2 to get my coffee table, and possibly my small phone table. Thats a few more bucks in my pocket. :) Then I have to race over to downtown Portland to have a physical at some walk-in clinic. I may have to wait for a while she said to see the doctor. I hate physicals. Basically, the doctor is going to look at me, ask me a few questions, maybe listen to my heart/lungs, then sign off saying I am capable of doing the same work I have been doing. Silly job requirements.
Grr, well I had better get started packing since my mid-day will be interrupted. I did also want to drive to Corvalis to exchange a pair of shoes I got for Christmas ( I know I am lazy), but I don't see that happening anytime soon. Maybe if I get all my packing done, Mom and I can go on Saturday while Dad and Joel are golfing. That is a thought, but I have to get this done.
My title was wrong...I guess it is a sprint, so I had better get going faster now!

Ready, Set, Go!

I started packing today!!! Woohoo!

Undercover

I am undercover. I am supposed to be packing right now, but I can't bring myself to do it. I am getting a few things done here and there, but I just can't seem to get the bulk of it started.

Today I went to a CPR class, so I had to get up early. Therefore, I came home and took a nap. Well, you all know that when I take a nap, it is like 3-4 hours long. Today was no different. I don't know why, but I fall asleep, and I wake up about 4 hours later. Strange, I know.

So after my nap, I went and got me a pizza, and have just been watching some tv, doing odds and ends things. I need to get my laundry done, so I can start packing all my clothes up. I need to decide what to take, and what to pack. Grr. Moving is so hard. I feel like it is so far away, but yet I am moving back to the TC in ONE week. I know. ONE WEEK. Crazy. Then I am home for a week before I leave for good. I am not sure if I am in denial that it really is happening, or what.

It is crazy. I am going through all these emotions. Sad, anxious, excited, nervous, scared. All at once too, so it isn't like I can deal with each when they come, its all happening at once. I have gotten almost all the required paperwork in, all I need now is a physical, some lab work, and a drug test. I hope I pass! :)

Tonight, I will stay up late, since I slept this afternoon. I will get at least 3 loads of laundry DONE, and start packing my clothes into boxes. I have so much food in my cupboards, but yet I don't have any food. I don't have milk, or, ok I have no excuse. I just haven't been eating good at all. I have gained about 10 lbs, and I have vowed to start off in Maryland on the right foot. Start running again, and start eating healthier again. Of course, I won't have a car over there, so I will be walking a lot more.

Wow, this post has jumped all over. Welcome to my world!

Weather

So, because of the the weather, I ended up staying in the TC last night. I called about 2pm, and work had also heard many traffic horrors in the Gorge. I told them I was still here, and I wasn't gonna make it tomorrow. They took it well. I hated to do that, being that it is my last two weeks. I don't want to make it look like I am slacking. I want to give them everything I have in the last two weeks, and go away shining!!

Okay, I am waking up now. But seriously, I came home today, and the roads were much better. Some snow on the side of the road, but the road itself was bare/mostly dry. I did 70 the whole way, without problems.

I am home now, safe and sound. Thank you to all who helped make my birthday a wonderful day. You rock!!

I guess I can sit and relax tonight...yeah, maybe get some dishes/laundry done. Then next week, dive right into packing, yuck!

I think there is supposed to be (slightly) warmer weather here pretty soon. I could stand for some 40-50's that would be really nice. Who's with me?

Must go back

Must go back to work tomorrow. I like having days off, but I must go back. I work three days in a row. And while that doesn't seem like much to you 9-5'ers, it is. 3 days seems like forever when it first begins. I manage to make it through every time, but still seems like forever.
But then, after i work 3, I get at least another 2 off....which means packing time!! Yeah for me. I got my storage unti all situated while I was here, and got lots of boxes. Now all I have to do is decide what to pack away, and what to bring. Oh, and my parents got me an entire set of luggage for my birthday. How cool is that? So, now I may not have to bring boxes, or even ship them. Also, I checked, there is a Wal*Mart in Hagerstown, so I can go buy super cheap stuff, and I won't have to bring it with.
Things are looking good, and everything is getting taken care of. I guess I am really doing this. I heard from Charlie's new family. Seems he is adjusting well, and they will be keeping him. They even sent a couple pics over for me. It was hard, and I teared up, but I know he will be happy with them.
Well, guess I will wrap this up, need to go do something. Today I am just gonna veg. I am waiting for my new phone to arrive via FedEx today. I decided to switch to Verizon Wireless, so I got a new phone. I can't wait!!

Happy Birthday

Happy Birthday to ME!
Yes, today is my birthday. As you notice, the countdown is complete. I will post a new one for next year. Tonight my fmaily/friends are coming over for some din-din and some yummy cake/ice cream. My sister's birthday is just a few days after mine, so we usually tend to celebrate them together.
Other than that, nothing too exciting going on here. Mostly just relaxing. I know that when I go back home, the stress begins of packing, and all that stuff. I have my travel itinerary completed. Bought my ticket, and sort. So, it is nice to just relax, and not have to worry.
Off to shower, and get ready to have some fun for my birthday!

Changes, so many changes

Charlie is gone now. He went to a nice couple. her name is Sky, and I don't know his name...oops, my bad.
They have decided to take him on a trial basis. They paid me, and took his things, and him. If in a few days, it doesn't work out, they will let me know, and I will take him back. They didn't seem to think there would be any issues. So, basically, Charlie is gone.

It is hard, and I cried, but I know it is for the best. I feel confident that he will be in a good home, and they adore him already.

Bye Charlie. I miss you already. I love you!!


Charlie.


This is the day I brought Charlie home. He was 2 months old. March 24, 2004


This is a visit last year, when Steve was taking care of him. I missed him so much, and it was so hard to see him every time. That is why I chose to give him away to someone I don't know. So I won't be tempted to get him back. I love him so much.


How adorable is this?? Who wouldn't love him?

I have a JOB!!

I had an interview today with Hagerstown, Maryland. It is a Day/night position in the PCU (Progressive Care Unit). I am very excited about it. I also have the possibility of floating to the ICU, if they need me.
I will be traveling with Access Nurses. I am pleased with my package, and look forward to visiting Maryland. I looked it up online. It is a small town of about 35,000 with lots of history. Sounds like a cool place to start. I can't believe this is actually occurring, but I am so excited for it to begin. Weird.
Well, I will send you all an email letting you know my new address when I get it. I probably won't know until about 5 days before I go where I will be living.
Charlie does not have a home yet, but someone will be coming over today. Hopefully. I will miss him so much!

Assignment

No assignment yet, but I have been submitted to lots of places. I think I will have an interview today from a place in Maryland. Apparently they wanted to call yesterday, but I was at work, and was unable to get away for 10 minutes. I hope that didn't make a difference in my chances with this facility. I am really excited to go, and I want to know I have someplace to start, soon. I will keep you all updated!!

Craigslist

I posted lots more stuff on Craig's list. I had a heyday actually. I decided to sell my couch/chair. I figure I will be getting new furniture anyhow, since Charlie has ruined all my current, so why store it when I can sell it, get some cash, and buy later.
I was honest, and let people know of the damages, and even posted pics. So people are aware of what they will be purchasing, if they decide to purchase. Worst case scenario...nothing gets sold. It didn't cost anything to post them.
I have had a few more people interested in Charlie. I am meeting with someone on Wednesday that is looking to add to their family. Her name is Sky. Oh, and yes Jeffery, when I decide to do things...I go for it and do it. Of course, I have been planning to do this for a while now, it is just that I made an official decision, and I went with it. I figure jump right in, and just do it. I am stressing majorly about everything. I don't want this stress to last for months, I want it to just be over with.
I am hoping for at least an interview this week.
I also posted some random other things like end tables, phone table, couple books, wallet, some random things that I think I can get some $$ for. I will see if I sell anything. Last year about this time, I posted lots of stuff and got about $250. So, it was fun. Good way for me to get rid of some things.
I have an old palm m515, I was thinking about selling, but i don't have the charger for it anymore, so it can't be turned on. I guess I will have to throw that out. I was thinking of posting it, and telling whoever wanted it to look for the charger, but then I figure if someone was selling the charger, they would probably be selling the palm too.
I am giving my apartment 30 day notice this week, and I will give my job 2 week notice this week or next. I have even spent most of today throwing away a TON of junk. I am such a packrat, and I don't even need this crap. Also, started packing away a few things, getting ready for the big move. Of course, my move will be complicated. I have to pack things that I will take with, and things that I will store. My mom has offered (after I asked of course) to come over a few days at the end of the month to help me pack/move.
I am gonna miss this place, but look forward to my new adventures!!

Charlie

Well, I posted Charlie to Craig's List to see if I would get any responses. I got one right away. She seems really cool. Her name is Heather. She has a 12 yo dog now, but grew up with dachshund's, so is looking at getting another. She lives on acreage, and has some kids for Charlie to play with. I emailed her to see if she would be interested in meeting, to see how she gets along with Charlie and what not. I mentioned in the ad, that I will give him away to a good home, at my discretion.
I need to know that he will be happy, and have fun, and be treated good. I don't want him to go to just any home, be left outside in the cold for all hours of the day/night, and maybe get fed once a week. I just can't handle the idea someone would do that to him, or any dog for that matter.
So, I talked with my recruiter today, she said it is highly likely that I will get a job and start by Feb 5th. So, I will put in notice at my apt tomorrow. 30 days notice, so I had better be gone by Feb 7th. If I start Feb 5th, I would move to my new home Feb 3. I am also planning to take one week off between quitting here and starting there. I think that will give me plenty of time to move, and see my family.

Travel

I think I am gonna do it. The consensus is... do it!!

So, I am.

I did lots of thinking yesterday, did my research, talked it over with my mom. Basically...nothing is keeping me here. I can get out of my lease, very easily (for a fee, but easy) and make major $$ doing it.

So, when my recruiter calls today, I am gonna tell him to find me a job. It can really fast, or it can take a few weeks, just depends. But since I am open to going wherever....I bet it will happen quickly.

Couple things though. If I do go far away, I will fly. I don't want to have to just have my car sitting here. While I pay for insurance and the payments. So, I am thinking of just selling it. I can get a rental car at whatever assignment I go to (included), so why do I need to pay for a car that will just sit. I can't fly it, and it would be so much of a better option to fly vs driving cross country.

Second dilemma. Charlie. He is, well, destructive. I am afraid if I take him, he may ruin a few things that do not belong to me, and it may prove to be more expensive taking him with. I will have to pay a pet dep each place I go. I won't have a doggie sitter like I have here, and I will feel guilty if I want to leave and explore my new city. So, my mom suggests I give him to a good home, where he will have kids that play with him, and a yard to run in. Besides, it would be crazy expensive to fly with him, and I have no clue how he would do with that.

I really hate the idea of giving Charlie away, but he is ruining things of mine, and he frustrates me so. I do love him, but I think someone else will be able to provide better for him. I am not sure if I am trying to convince you of my new idea, or me. Oh well, it is just something that has to happen. Besides when I gave him to Steve last time (last February), I missed him terribly at the beginning. I continued to miss him, but I eventually saw that it was good not having him around. Only thing is....this time I need to give him away permanently, so I can't get him back. I will always love him, and some day I will get another dog. Good thing is though, I feel better about giving him away this time, than I did last time.

Okay, moving on. I don't know where my first assignment will be, but I will keep you all posted. The recruiter guy was really cool. We had an hour or so conversation...some about traveling, some about personal stuff. I think he was flirting with me a little. Funny, he knows nothing about me. Oh well, it was fun. He lives down in San Diego (where the main office is located), so he kept trying to sell that area to me. A place that might cool. I could be very close to LA and maybe go star gazing...that would be fun.

About running. While I am at it, I might as well confess a few things. I haven't been running. I really want to go, everyday I have off, I plan to go. I just never get out there. I am not sure if it is the weather or my lack of motivation. Ever since the marathon, I haven't wanted to run long distances again. I want to train for another marathon, but then I still remember how much it hurts, and how much work it is. Of course, I remember that when I train, I have a ton of fun and I feel good too, but the pain overshadows the fun. Maybe I need to wait some time before I start training for another marathon...so I can forget what it feels like. I don't know. All I know is if I keep eating like I have been, and I keep not running....I will gain all that weight back. I lost 40 lbs total last year, and kept off 36 of them. I am very proud of that, and I plan to get another 25-30 off again this year.

I know what I need to do, I just NEED to do it! I need to get my mind back in major weight loss mode, and life changing mode. I need to exercise in one form or another on all my days off. I am not making this a New Years resolution, I really hate those. So, if I had to have a resolution, this year would be to stop complaining so much, and be more positive. I have failed so far this year, however, I am willing to keep trying until I get it right. So, starting now. I will be more positive, and stop complaining about things. Especially those I have no control over.

Okay, here goes.

Happy New Year 2007

Happy New Year to everyone. This year holds exciting things for me, I know it already! I have been talking about becoming a traveling nurse. I have been thinking a lot about it, and have talked to many people. Everyone I talk thinks that I should do it. They all say..." You are young, single....you should do it now, while you can!"

So...you ask, what is a traveling nurse? Well, a traveling nurse, is an RN who accepts 13 week contracts anywhere she wants to go. For instance, if I decide I want to go to Florida, I can call my agency up, tell them I want a job in Florida, they find it for me, and I go. The best part...they pay for transportation, provide a furnished apartment, pay for utilities, and pay me more than I make now.

So, what is the hold up? Well, I am currently in a lease with my apartment here until June 3. So, if I left before that, I would need to continue making rent payments, or speak with my leasing office, and see what my options are. It wouldn't be a big deal to keep sending rent checks, since I wouldn't be paying rent wherever I decided to go.

Where would I go first? I have no clue...except, my friend Mara, moved to California (just recently) and has mentioned it would be cool if I did an assignment near her. Which, I agree, would be totally cool. I could see cool sights, and be close to a friend to start with.

Where to go after that? I have no clue. I really want to go all over. I would love to see the East coast, maybe do some midwest assignment. Maybe Colorado. Any ideas? Another good motivating factor...they offer bonuses sometimes...so maybe I will go where the bonuses are.

Well, what do you (my blog readers) think?? Do you think this is a good fit for me? Do you think I should wait until May, or go in, say, March? If I wait till May/June, then I will have just about 2 years experience under my belt. Right now, I just have 1 1/2.

Let me know what you think, I really want your comments and constructive criticism. Let me know!!

They didn't

Oh yes they did. I got called at 5am, to get low-censused. I told them, I had driven home from my vacation to work today, and I was coming to work. I can't believe it. There was no reason why they couldn't have called me off yesterday, but she didn't want to make that call. I told the night shift manager, that I only wanted to be called off if I got to stay at my family's house. So, I didn't get to stay, so I went to work.

It was a good day. Slow for me, but the time still went by pretty fast, up till the last couple hours. Those seemed to drag!!

Well, some more tv for me, and my nice warm bed. My mother got me an electric blanket for Christmas, and I put it on my bed when I got home last night. Cozy!!

Christmas Day

Well, it turns out I didn't get low censused, so I have to work on Christmas Day. I had a wonderful Christmas Eve with my family. We opened gifts (read: I opened all my gifts, and they opened the ones I got them), and at some din-din. Mom made (yummy) lasagna. I even got some for lunch tomorrow. Now I just have to remember to bring it to work tomorrow!

No hard feelings. I truely didn't expect to get off, besides...I get paid time-and-a-half for it. I got a Christmas with my family, so now I can go spend Christmas with my other family.

Tonight, gonne eat lots of cookies (I brought some of those home too) and watch some tv, before I head to bed (finally get to sleep in MY bed) early tonight. Well, early means about 10. Normally I head to bed about 11. So, its early. I haven't slept in my bed in about three weeks. I have been at DeAnn's (housesitting) since Dec 6, and then at my parents since the 19th. I can't wait!!

Christmas is approaching

Although I got all my shopping done, I haven't even started warpping. Which I will need to do today, since tomorrow is MY Christmas day. My family has decided to come over tomorrow morning, and watch me open all my gifts. They will also open the gifts that I got them. That is nice, at least I get a Christmas morning. It just happens to be on Christmas Eve. Then, I get to head home. My parents don't want me driving at night, so they are trying to get me to go home early. But, I don't want to. This is my vacation, and if the weather is bad, then I won't go home. I will call to work and tell them, I have inclement weather, and I will come home when the roads are better. However, I think they know I am gonna try to do something. I have flat out told them, I want Christmas Day off. I am gonna try to get off. Tomorrow at about 4 pm, I am gonna call in and if the census is low, I will try to get off. I think there are about 10 nurses scheduled (normally about 7-8), so I see no reason why I can't get off. Wish me luck!

Today, I was gonna go to my friend, Bonnie's house, in Benton City, to go horseback riding. However, it snowed last night, and I still have a bunch of baking to do. I haven't gotten those no bake's made yet. That is the whole point of Christmas Season, I think. So, I don't know if I will go out there. If I do, I will probably only be for an hour or so! I have to call her this morning!

Other that what I have mentioned, no other big plans. I haven't seen Jackie, or Kat. My guess is Kat is in Montana. Jackie, maybe Montana too. I don't know. Oh well. I will get to see them later. Maybe for my birthday, which is coming up soon too!! (See countdown at sidebar)

Merry Christmas!!

Productive Day

Yeah. I am so glad. I got all my Christmas shopping done, in one day. Actually in just a few hours.

Today started off great. Breakfast with Mara at IHOP. Although, the roads were bad, so she was running just a bit later than planned. I decided to sneak a little eye brow waxing in. They were in desperate need of a clean-up. I feel they sprouted over night.

Then, went shopping with my friend, Rachel. We decided since I had no clue what to get my family, I should just start browsing. So we did that, we started at the mall. I managed to get my sister and brother-in-law, and both my parents done this morning. I was so pleased, considering I had no clue what to get them.

Then, went and had lunch at Platt Electric Supply. Annual (free) Christmas lunch. Yeah. I love (free) lunch!! Then went more shopping with my Mom. We decided to head to Wal*Mart, and Fred Meyer, and I got everyone else shopped for. I can't give away too much here, since my entire family/friends reads this blog. I wouldn't someone getting hints as to what they are getting ahead of time. Granted, it is almost Christmas, and granted, they will be opening up their gifts early, since I have to work. So, it isn't like they have to wait a long time to see what I got them.

So, my day is very productive. It is still light out, so I may even go for a run. Yeah, I need to do that. And, tonight I am staying at Jen/Joel's, cuz I get to babysit tomorrow morning.

Oh yeah, I even got a chance to stop by and see some people I hardly get to see anymore. One was Bonnie. SHe used to work at Dr. Tan's office with me. Now she is at Lincare. Point...I stopped by, said hello, and she invited me to her place on Saturday. Bigger point...she had horses, and I get to go ride them!! Yup! You may remember, not last year, but the year before, she invited me out there for my birthday, to go riding. It was freezing cold, but still a ton of fun!! I can't wait to go freeze me buttocks off again. It will so be worth it. Mom gets to come too. She hasn't riden in a long time.

Well, I better get that run in, like I said I would!

Bunco!

Last night, went over to my sister's house, and played Bunco. It is a no-brainer game of dice. More of an excuse to get together for a girl's night in. Kind of like guy's poker night. Usually you win prize money for most bunco's, and most wins, things like that, but last night, we did an ornament exchange instead. So, it was fun. I met a bunch of my sister's neighbors, and got to spend time with my long time friend, Rachel. It was fun!!

Today, was a boring day. Didn't get much done. I want to go running. I brought my running light, and warm running clothes, so I may still go out tonight. I hate that is gets dark so quickly. I slep most of the day away, since my dog kept me up most of the night. I just don't get any good sleep when he sits at the door whining, cuz he wants to go play with my parent's dogs. Hopefully tonight will be better.

No plans so far this whole time I am here. I guess I will just wing it. I still need to shop. I have gotten nothing for anyone, except Grason and Kaitlyn. The two easiest to shop for. Maybe that is why I have their stuff. I don't know. Speaking of...Grason is here now, so what am I doing on the computer. See ya!

Home for the Holidays

I am headed home today. I can't wait. My stint at house sitting is finally over, and I get to spend a week with my family. I am just gonna do a little clean-up here at home, then I am off.

I had fun at DeAnn's house, sitting, but I am glad that it is over. I think Charlie was starting to not like it too. He stopped wanting to go "bye-bye", and refused to listen to me. That is ok. I know he likes it at home, so he will be happy to go there.

I have to work Christmas Day, which I am not happy about, but I don't want to get started on that rant. So, I will be coming back to Portland Christmas Eve. I am gonna try to get off, but it will depend on how many nurses are working, and how many patients are in the hospital. I think she pads holidays though. Maybe half expecting people to call-in sick, or maybe just because we are always super busy, or just to make it so we have a good day...I don't know. All I know is, I have to work, and I don't want to.

So, I am off now. Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday Season. I will try to keep updated while at my parents, but it doesn't always happen. So, Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight! Hehe! :)

2 months and its over

So, Jeff and I broke up last night. I had noticed him not calling as often, and just generally getting phased out. He didn't realize he was doing it, but since I had been there before, I totally knew what it felt like. I wasn't gonna put up with it.

Last year, we were friends for a long time. But when Jeff gets interested in someone/thing else, he tends to ignore, or make excuses in the current relationship. We used to talk everyday, several times a day, then it started to slack. He stopped calling at night. Mostly because he was super busy, majorly stressed, and just starting his new job in Seattle. But, in the past, when he had been really busy, he still called, because he wanted to. Well, apparently he stopped wanting to talk to me. Luckily, I had seen it in the past, so I knew what it felt like, so I only put up with it for about 4 days. If he hadn't done it to me last year, I wouldn't have thought anything of it yet. The only downside, which he will realize soon, is he ruined it again, and this time....there won't be a next time.

So, I cried alot last night after it happened. It was so hard to say goodbye. The hardest part for me will be the friendship. We were great friends, could talk about anything. But, I can't be just friends with him, so I had to completely cut it off. I feel like I am losing my best friend. Not a long time friend, just a good friend. We talked all the time. It was great having someone to talk to about the daily stuff. Oh well, my family/friends will have to deal again!

So, I realized last night (after all the crying) that there were MANY things that I didn't like about him. Granted there were so many things that I twhought were wonderful, but some very important qualities that I want from a boyfriend, I just never got. And, I derserve so much better. And, I am gonna get so much better. I don't know when, but I will.

So, please don't worry about me. Yes, this totally sucks. Yes, it is hard. But, yes, I will get over it. And Yes, I will be fine.

So, I guess I am single once again...bring on the single, hot guys...in Portland!! No more long distance stuff. Maybe I will go back to that hash, and see if that cute guy, Andy, is really interested. Hehe :)

Running and Wheels

Alrighty. So yesterday ran a 10k race. It was fun. My friend Audrey ran it with me, and she had a friend Angela, that also ran too. We all had a ton of fun. I really wanted to dress up in Santa hat and bells, but didn't get the Santa hat in time, so just had the small bells that the race provided for us. Oh well.

We decided to ride the MAX to the start. It was fun. For those of you who don't know, the MAX is the public transportation of choice here in Portland. It is the train that runs East-West. You can get most places from it, but it can take a long time. For instance to get from my place in Southwest Portland area, to the airport (Northeast Portland area), it can take about 1 1/2 hours. Luckily, this was just downtown, about half that distance. I think it was maybe 30 minute ride. It was fun though, we were just chatting away.

So, the run. Yes. It was good. A little rainy, and a lot windy. That part totally sucked, but we managed to get through it. The first three miles were the worst. Uphill, against the wind. Yeah. But, once we got past that, we were flying. We managed to finish at 1hr 11 minutes. Which is just under a 12 min/mile pace. Slow for most people, but I was happy with it. If I can keep that pace up for the winter, great. Then, when I start training again early spring or late winter for my next marathon, then I will be set. Hopefully I can start losing weight again too.

Moving on. Went and got my brakes done. I dressed in my running clothes thinking I would run while they fixed my car, but when I got there, it was pouring rain. Now, don't get me wrong. I don't mind running in the rain, but pouring rain...no thank you!

I waited. It wasn't bad. I brought my palm this time, so I could play some games. I did have a bag of that popcorn I mentioned in the above post. I couln't help it. It stared at me, and begged me to eat it. So I did!

Well, when they were done. They guy told me my Left wheel bearing is going bad, and it needs to be fixed soon. I knew something was wrong, because my car had been running loud lately. Before it sounded like a smooth car, now it sounds like a rough truck. So, of course with my luck, they couldn't get the part, except through an authorized Pontiac dealer. No one sold them. So, he was nice enough to call and get a quote. The guy said without ABS, and a front-wheel drive system, they couldn't order just the wheel bearing, they had to order the whole hub system. I don't really know what that means, but whatever. I do know, that it needs to be fixed, and he is the first one to tell what is wrong. I have asked several people, and no one knew why it was making that noise.

So, he went ahead and ordered the part, it will be in on Wednesday. I can take my car in again on Thursday morning (for another 2-3 hour wait), to get that fixed.

Another $300 down the drain. Okay, maybe not down the drain. My car is an investment, and I do need to take care of this investment. An investment I will be keeping for a very long time!!

House Sitting and Brakes

So house sitting is going great.

My boss, DeAnn, asked me to dog/house sit for two weeks. I said no problem. I don't have anything at my house I need to stay there for, so why not stay at someone else's house. They even allowed me to bring Charlie over to stay here too. They have a 15 year old Border Collie named Chayse. She puts up with Charlie, but hobbles around a lot. I have to keep Charlie off her half the time.

I like their house, and their dog. I am staying in their spare bedroom, and she has a really nice down comforter on the bed for me. When I arrived, she had towels laying out, some blueberry muffins for breakfast, and even a flashlight at the bedside (in case I needed to get up in the middle of the night, that way I wouldn't trip on anything-how sweet).

When I have to work though, Charlie goes back to my home, and the neighbor girls let Chayse out in the afternoon once. 12 hours alone is really hard on the dog, so they are nice enough to help out.

On to the brakes. I went and got my oil changed on Saturday, and my brake light had been coming on, so I asked them to check my brake fluid. They didn't want to, but I explained to them that if it isn't really low, then I know it is an electrical problem, not a real brake problem. I told them, I didn't expect them to fix it, I just wanted them to check, since they were already working under my hood.

They did. That was nice.

It is low. Grr.

Well, since they don't do brakes, I decided to head over to Les Schwab and have them looked at. See what needed to be done, and how much. Well, when I arrived I told the guy my brake light kept coming on, and I needed to know what I needed to do about it, and how much would it cost.

He said " No problem, we will take your car back, check it out, and I will get back to you to let you know what needs to be done"

"Great!"

"It will take about half hour"

"No problem, I will wait"

So, I waited, and waited, and waited. Finally they pull my car into the service bay, and check my brakes. I also had them rotate my tires while they were there. Last year I had to buy new tires, so they needed to be rotated.

After 45 minutes + of waiting, the lady finally comes back in, tells me what that I have 15% left on the front, and 60% left on the rear. They recommend replacing the front brakes at this time. She tells me it will cost ~$200 to replace brakes, flush the system, and fill my brake fluid. And, if my rotors need to be replaced, it will cost an additional $80.

I can't exactly afford that, but I figure this is safety I am talking about, and I have lots of traveling in my future. So, I say "Go ahead. How long will it take?"

"M'aam, we are closed now, you will have to make an appt for that."

"What? The guyt told me he would check things out and come back to let me know what needed to be done. So, not only did I wait for 45 minutes for you to tell me something I already know, but now I have to come back and wait again. Okay, I guess it needs to be done, can I make an appt for tomorrow?"

"We are closed"

"Are you kidding me?" I said a bunch of other stuff under my breath. About ready to cry, holding myself back. "I guess Monday then"

So, I have an appt to get my brakes fixed in 45 minutes. They said it should take about an hour. Right, an hour. I will believe that when I see it. I have decided to wear my running clothes, and when I drop off my car, I will go running. What better way to waste time? Even if I don't run for a full hour, I won't just be sitting there, staring at the popcorn machine, debating whether to have any or not!

Back to work, I go!

Well, I guess the title says it all. I have been on a little hiatus (aka days off) for three days, now I am headed back to work three days. Then I get another three days off. I had asked for those days off because Jeff was supposed to come visit me that weekend. Of course, he decided to go and get a job in Seattle, so will be moving that weekend instead. Now, I have no clue when I will get to see him again. Boohoo!! :(

Well, I am off to bed! Tomorrow I start house sitting at my boss's house for two weeks. I am watching her 15 year-old Border Collie, Chase. She is white with a few black spots. A very gentle soul. Charlie is going to ruin her. Kidding. But seriously, I will be staying over there for two weeks. I, however, don't feel comfortable leaving Charlie in a new house, with another dog for 12 hours while I work, so I will be dropping him off before work, and picking him back up after work. It makes things easier on the house. I don't want to be responsible for paying for new couches, linens, toys, whatever else he may decide to chew on. I just don't want to, nor can I afford it. It will be lots of extra driving (she lives about ten mins from me), and will require me to get up just a few minutes earlier than I normally do, but so be-it. I can do it.

I am actually looking forward to it. It will be weird to be in a strange house all alone, and my boss's house when she isn't there, but still fun just the same! Wish me luck! Then, when the two weeks is up....I get to go home for Christmas and spend six days at home with my family (hopefully with Jeff too, somewhere in that mix), then come back to work on Christmas day. Yes, you heard me correctly. I have to work on Christmas Day. Even though I offered to work all other holidays, just to have this one off, I still have to work on Christmas Day. At least I get time-and-a-half, right? Yeah!

Well, those are my little rants for tonight. Have a great day. Oh, and I have not started shopping yet. I had better start thinking about what I want to get for my family, hadn't I?

Kahuna Hash

Another hash night. It wasn't as fun as the first night, but still fun. I got about the same amount of running in, in less time. Lasted about an hour tonight. We ran all over downtown Portland, so it was fun.

I have another race on Sunday. So, the running is much needed. Tomorrow is a full moon hash, so I may go to it. Depends on if I get any running in during the day. I really want to get a 4-5 mile run in tomorrow afternoon, sometime. I will see if that happens. Usually I am lazy all day, then the evening/night comes, and I start wanting to go do.

Weird how that works.

Just Kathleen

So, I went to the Oregon Hash House Harriers event last night. It was a TON of fun. Basically it is a co-ed fraternity.

Seriously.

But, I had fun just the same. So we started out at this hotel, and the hares left about ten minutes before we did to set the trail. Then we started off. We ran around the city, basically bar hopping. Apparently it is not always like that, last night was different. Last night was a "pick-up" hash. Which meant no one chose to be the hare ahead of time. So, they drew straws at the beginning, and the shortest was the hare. Audrey didn't want to be the hare, so we showed up later than 6:30, so she didn't have to partake in the drawing of the straws. I was a virgin, so I of course wouldn't ever be chosen.

We run around chasing the hare, and stop at these "beer checks", tonight was at bars. We had three bars that we stopped at total. It was fun. No pressure for us non-drinkers either, it was really cool. Then after about 15-20 mins, the hare is off again, and then so are we. Running to the next check point. At the end, there was even a boob-check. No one is allowed to go on, until someone shows their boobs. I got there just as the group was breaking up. Someone had shown their boobs already, so I didn't have to do it. :)

So, it was totally fun. It lasted about two hours, probably got about a 3-4 mile run in, with lots of stops in between. But that is ok, it was still a ton of fun. So...Just Kathleen. When you get there you are required to sign in, and you are "just whatever-your-name-is" until you have been to many hash's and they decide to name you. Most names are sexual or perverted in nature. So I am cool with being Just Kathleen. If you introduce yourself, you have to say "Just Kathleen", or if you have a name...then whatever that is. This group is a drinking group with a running problem. They tend to be professionals during the day, and just like to have fun at night. So, you are not allowed to talk about work, or what you do.

I met this cool guy. His name is Mystery Meat. He was hitting on me all night long. He was totally cute, so it was fun. His real name was Andy, he slipped that one in. At the end of the night, he had won a super cool Bangkok (? spelling) T-Shirt, and a second Hash T-shirt too. Well apparently, he already had one of those, so asked me my size, and gave that shirt to me. So it was super fun. I can't wait to go back again! They meet three times a week. The Wednesday group is called the Portland Humping Hash. I can't go next Wednesday, but I will try to go next Monday and Saturday. I guess most nights are more running, less bars/beer checks, and most nights only last about 1:00-1:15, vs the two hours we were out last night.

I will keep you posted on my future hashing nights. I am no longer a virgin, so I don't have to get re-initiated!!! Yes, I had an initiation last night. But, luckily you are allowed a proxy to drink for you, so I still didn't have to drink! Yeah!

Home life

Finally got some housework done. I ahve been working/traveling so much lately, I just have not had time to get any housework done. So, I finally got about 10 loads (no joke) of laundry done, dishes, and random other cleaning stuff. I will do more heavy duty stuff tomorrow. I know my apt isn't that big, but I am not working on it all day, constantly. Even though I should be! :)
Tonight I am headed out to a new running group. My friend Audrey, from work, runs with this group. They are all professionals in some manner, and there only rule is not shop talk! Yes! I love that. I hate getting together with people at work, and all they want to talk about is work. So, it will be nice to meet a bunch of new people, and get a good run in. Catch...we don't ever know how far we are going, where we are going, what terrain we will be running in, and it is at night. So, Mom...don't freak out. I will constantly be around other people. Apparently it is a game. The "hares" run ahead and set the trail, and if you catch them... I don't remember exactly, but something happens to the "hare". It sounds like fun. Oh, and I forget to mention, something about drinking...every mile, every turn...I don't remember that either. She explained all this to me about a month ago, when I was gonna go with her before...but I couldn't then. So this is the first time I will have gone with her. I am excited. I know it will be major freezing cold, but that is ok. I am cool with that. I have lots of winter running clothes. I trained for my second marathon during the winter, and I enjoyed it more than summer running!
So, I am off to go run the Hash...that is what they call it. I will update you all on how it was and how it works. yeah. I am excited to go running again!!

Seattle Half Marathon

Yes Jeffery...the race was Sunday. You are correct.

I convinced my friend Heather to join me on the trek to Seattle, so I didn't have to go alone. I am so glad she decided to come, it was a ton of fun! We left Saturday morning, and headed up there. Got to the Hotel, valet parked my car, then we checked in. Got my race packet, and met another frined named Heather. She ran the Portland Marathon too, and we met before that race as well. It was nice to see her again.

In Seattle we did a little shopping, but mostly vegged in the host hotel room. It was a ton of fun, just relaxing in the Westin's Heavenly beds, and watching DVD's.

The next morning called for snow/rain mix, so I wasn't 100% I wanted to run, but I did. It was snowing in the early am, but not enough to stick, and it was more wet than anything. So, I got up, dressed, and forged my way to the start line. I had about a mile to walk to even get to the start line, but it was ok. Heather met me at the hotel in the morning, and we started the race together.

So, when I say Heather ran with me, it is the second Heather, not the first Heather that came to Seattle with me. The second Heather lives in the Seattle area. So, from here on out...Heather1 came with me, Heather 2 met me there!

Heather2 isn't much of a runner yet. She does the run/walk method, so it was abig deal to start running with me. She ran the first mile, then started walking, and I never saw her again. Oh well, she knew that would happen. It was nice just to have someone to start with. Thanks Heather2!!!

The run...well, it was really wet, and cold. Heather2 told me before the race to wear a garbage bag, to keep warmer and drier...so I did. It was a funny sight, but she was right, it was way warmer. It rained the whole time, and started down-pouring about mile 10. I called Hather1 and told her not to meet me at the finish. There was no point in both of us being drowned rats.

Overall, it was a good race. A good route, and I finished strong. I even feel I could have ran another 3-5 miles if I absolutely had to. Luckily I didn't have to. I was tired of the rain. But then again, I did have to trek back another mile to the hotel. So, really I did about 15 miles this weekend. Hehe!

Time: Finished in 2:43, which is pretty good for me this year. That is 12:30 pace. Not bad. Got a good shirt, sweatshirt, and cool medal. So I am happy. Next run for me is the Red-Nosed RUNdeer, on Dec 10th. Audrey wants to run that with me! Yeah! I will run the 10k at that race. I am excited to keep running now. I was starting to feel like I couldn't run distances anymore, but that race reminded me, my body likes to run, and it will remember no matter how much I try to forget!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Happy Thanksgiving to all. I do have to work (and am here now), but I got to spend a few days with my family, and even got to see Jeff for a moment or two before leaving town. I got in late last night, so early to bed for me. It was worth it though! :)

Hope you all have a great Turkey day! Eat lots and lots for me. After two days of work here, I am off to Seattle for a Half marathon (that I haven't been training for-bad Kathleen). I am going alone, so wish me luck!!

Nov 22

Nothing too exciting today. Just a lazy day. Watched You, Me, and Dupree. It was good! Was gonna head home about 4 or 5, then I learned that Jeff was coming into town, so I stayed. We went to dinner, and got to spend about an hour and a half together. I guess it is better than nothing! Off to bed though, as I am getting in very late!! Have to work tomorrow!!

Nov 21

So, it was another great day with my family. Had the family over for dinner. That was fun. It is always nice to see everyone. Did some baking too, so I got to eat no-bake cookies. The bestest ever. Really... in my mind, that is what makes Thanksgiving...Thanksgiving. Yes, the cookies. They really are that good!!

So, tomorrow I have to head back home. Not my idea of a great holiday, but you got to do what you got to do! I ...got to....work. Yeah! Too bad I have to head back. More family is coming tomorrow night. My Uncle Jeff, with a few of my cousins, that I never get to see. Oh well. He lives in Portland near me, so I can see him whenever...the cousins, well I don't get to see them whenever, but oh well.

Jeff may be coming tomorrow too. I may get to see him just as I am leaving town to head home, or he may decide to wait and come Thursday morning. Which means, I don't get to see him at all. Grr. I hate long distance relationships. I miss him so much, and I hate not seeing him very often. Grrr.

Well, I am off to bed!

Nov 20

Got to hang out all day with my mom. I had a blast. First off, we started running. I know, can you believe it? I got my mom to run with me. She did a really good job. We ran for 45 mins. It was only supposed to be 30, but she walked a lot. Which is fine, I just ran circles around here, it was fun.

Then we went and got Grason, and I got to hang with Grason all day. We went to the mall got our brows done, pedicures. It was fun. Then came home, watched a couple movies. Jen/Joel came over for dinner (Yumm...tacos, my favorite!) and then they took Grason home! :(

It was a blast! Tomorrow....baking all day for Thankgsgiving Day. That I won't be here for...but at least I get to eat all the cookies!!! :)

Nov 19

Man how things change so quicky. I guess I am going home now. My mother has offered to pay for gas, so I have no excuse not to go home. I will have fun. I will get to see my neice/nephew again (who can turn down them), and my parents, and my sister/brother. So, it iwll be fun. I will even see my grandparents (which I never really see). Too bad I have to come back for Turkey day. Oh well, who needs turkey anyhow?

Short post, but I need to pack and get on the road. I worked all day...so don't want to be up too late...driving!!

Nov 18

I guess I am not going to go howm now. I spoke with my mom, and I just don't have the money to spend on all that gas. Besides I am headed to Seattle this weekend for a half marathon, so I will have to spend gas money then, and hotel money.

I will either get my puppy after Thanksgiving, or near Christmas. I need to speak with Steve. I am sure he will appreciate having him longer. I miss him lots, but I know I will see him again, so it isn't as bad as it was before (when I tried to give him up!).

So, I guess I will clean on my days off and start decorating for Christmas. Yeah! I love Christmas!! I can't wait til the season gets under way!!

Nov 17

Ended up being a lazy day. We decided there wasn't too much to do, but housework, and so we didn't hang out together. I, of course, didn't get much done. I need to do morelaundry, and some dishes. I hate housework. That is why I was a housewife for Halloween....scary job!!Hehee

Back to work tomorrow for a couple more days, then back to the TC's. I was thinking I didn't really want to go home again (don't like driving, don't have the money), but my puppy is there. If I don't go get him now, I don't know when I will get him back. I just hate going home, knowing that everyone still has to work, and can't hang out with me, except in the evening, and by then, doesn't ever want to do anything. Although, I love just hanging out all day in my pj's, I can do that here.

Oh well, I am sure it will be fine. I am sure I can find someone to do something with. Somewhere!

Nov 16

Oh my goodness. I almost forgot to blog today. Wow...that was a close call.

Today was a work day. Very, very busy. Of course I can't talk about it, due to confidentiality reasons. Oh well. You wouldn't understand it anyhow. (Not to offend anyone)

Gonna hang out with Heather all day tomorrow, can't wait!!

Pictures from this weekend

Jeff took the above picture. I am not that good with my camera yet, and he has known photography for a while. It was a cold day, but really fun hiking. Nothing like the gorge, but still fun. This is at Bowl and Pitcher in Riverside State Park in Spokane, WA.

This is Jeff at the top of a cliff. He didn't want to get too close, so he kept down low, as to not fall off. Good thinking!

This is Jeff.

This is a picture of the balloons on the swinging bridge. Some people were putting them up because it was "A good day!"

Nov 15

Another day at work. Nothing too exciting. Came home to an empty house. Charlie is hagning with Steve for a few days. I was home, and plan to go back home next week, and well all I do is work when I am here, so he might as well have some fun with Steve. He gets so bored hanging out here all day...alone. I feel for him, I really do. I have a doggie sitter come in the middle of the day, and play with him for an hour, take him out. That breaks things up a bit, but I bet it can still be boring here. I don't' think he does anything until I get home. Then he is very wild, and all I want to do is relax. Oh well. he is having fun with Steve. I will get to see him next week!!

Nov 14

I am home now. Today I got to spend a few hours hanging out with my mother and my neice, Kaitlyn. It was a ton of fun. But, back to work I go tomorrow. I work 4/5 days, then I head back to the TC (Tri-Cities, WA) to spend (my) Thanksgiving Break with my family. I have to work on Turkey day, so I am going there early. I know I was just there, but I didn't get to see everyone, and I have three days off, so what else will I do with my time???

Better get running more though. I need to get a longer run in, or my half marathon in Seattle (which I am running whether I am prepared or not) will really suck. That is ok. I can always walk. There is no harm in walking, nothing wrong with that. It is just supposed to be a fun run anyhow, to keep me motivated, and keep me running. I will have fun. So far, I am going alone, but my sister may go with me, and run a few miles. I don't know for sure!

Nov 13

Lazy day today. I slept most of the day. It felt great. I don't think I get really good sleep when I go out of town, so it is nice to be able to sleep all day.

Tonight I get to go visit my friend Kat. Won't get to see her long, but a short chat will be nice! Tonight I have Grason too. I love taking him for the day or the evening. Tomorrow I get Kaitlyn for the day. Yeah!! I don't know what we will do, but I am sure we will have fun. I might try to get some more pics of her.

Nov 12

Had a blast in Spokane with Jeff. I have some pics to post, but I have to wait until I get home, because I need to upload them to my computer. Sorry, you must wait.

Yesterday we went to this little park and did a little hiking. Not quite like the Gorge, but hiking still. There was this cool swinging bridge across the river. There were some people putting up ballons all across the bridge. When we asked what the occasion was, some guy in a thick Russian accent said "It's a good day!" Yes, we thought it was a good day too, but we weren't putting up ballons. Oh well. I got a pic of them too, so that will be what I post when I get home. Also took some good pics of Jeff. :)

Today, we didn't do too much. Stayed in watched some TV. I didn't even get another run in, but it was crazy windy. I hate running in the wind!

I came home tonight. Jeff had to go into work, then work early tomorrow morning, so I came home. When I get here (at Jen's), Grason welcomed me with open arms. He even gives me lots of kisses. It is so cute. He really leanes in and kisses me...sometimes with open mouth, but he will learn to pucker his lips soon enough. Oh man...both my kiddos make me melt. I will try to go see Kaitlyn again tomorrow too. She is crawling all over the place. I can't wait till she starts walking and talking. She is growing like a weed. Maybe I can get a few more pics of my kiddos too.

I have the next couple days off, so I plan to stay in the TC till Tues. I may head home Tues morning, to get some cleaning/laundry done. Work a few days, then head back over here for Thanksgiving. I have to work on Turkey day, but I plan to spend a few days before here. Then off to Seattle for the Half Marathon. I still plan to do it. Whether I have been running or not, even if I have to crawl across the finish line! I will be there!!

Nov 11

Happy Birthday Zoe, and Matt!!!

I didn't get much sleep last night. Oh well. I haven't had much sleep in the last few nights, so what difference is it if I add one more night to the pile.

Got up for a run this morning at Jeff's. Went for an hour. I am guessing about 5-5.5 miles. I feel really good. I am so glad I decided to go. It felt good to get out there vs laying around in bed not really sleeping, but trying to. Maybe I will go back to bed now, and see if I can get some sleep.

Yeah! Nothing else to exciting going on here, at least not yet!!

Nov 10

Made it home safe to the TC!! I am having a blast seeing everyone. I went over to Jen/Joel's this morning, picked up Grason, and he gets to hang with me all day! So we are at the office right now, playing with Kaitlyn too. I miss these kids so much!

Well, I will keep everyone posted on my fun I am having this weekend (this extended weekend-woohoo!). Daily blog posts are a lot of fun!

Nov 9

Happy Birthday to my friend Jackie!

I am headed off to the TC here in just a minute. Work seemed to take FOREVER!! But, good news...my short three-day-weekend, just became a nice 5 day stretch off. Thanks to Khristina and Scott for switching with me. :) Thanks a lot!

So, I am off to see my Jeff, and my family! :)

Nov 8

Today I am at work. It seems to be a very slow day. So, Power of 10 update. I am a little sore in my arms, but that seems to be it. I am thinking it is because I just didn't do it correctly. I will try again next week and see if I can do better.
As for the rest of my life...been feeling a bit depressed lately. Nothing major, just maybe the weather. Getting excited to go see Jeff this weekend though. Really excited now to see my family too. I convinced Mom to make dumplings for dinner Friday night. Yum, yum!!
Jeff has his interview in Seattle today at 3pm. Hopefully he will get the job, and move over to this side of the mountains....yeah! It will be a great opportunity for him! (and us...hehe :) )
Better get back to work!

Nov 7-Election Day

So, I am bad at remembering to vote. But, since I have a boyfriend, that is big into that sort of thing...I had to do it. So..everyone remember to go vote! Okay, I have said my peace!!

As for today. I went to the gym today. Did my first Power of ten workout in almost a year. It was good. Although, I really feel we didnt do it right again. We counted way to fast, and I just didn't feel I pushed myself as I should have. It will get better. I remember the first time I did it last year. It took us a few weeks to get the hang of it. Of course, I may be singing to a different tune tomorrow, when I hurt like hell. We'll have to see.

I also did 15 mins of cardio before hand. I wanted to do more, but we were pressed for time. So maybe I will get a good run in tonight. I will have to see. I am spending the day with Heather again. We are gonna just hang, watch more movies, run some errands. That sort of thing. Then two days of work, then I am off to see Jeff!!! Woohoo! I can't wait!

Nov 6

Had a fun day hanging out with Heather. She wasn't feeling good, and called in to work, so I went over and we watched girl movies all day. It was so much fun! Heather is awesome. We have a lot in common, and we can talk about anything. Fun to have a good friend. We are gonna hang out all day again tomorrow, then back to work for me.
Then I get to head home and see my babies. I just heard today Kaitlyn is crawling! Can you believe it? They are both growing up so fast!!

Nov 5

Hello All. A very non-busy day at work today. But I get the next couple days off, and I am totally excited about them. Tomorrow gonna go running with Audrey. then Tuesday, gonna hang out all day with Heather. We have all sorts of fun planned. It is nice to find friends to hang out with. I might even go to the gym with a new friend Ellie. I can't wait. I am thinking of getting started in Power of ten again. I really want to do it, but I have to find someone just as excited about it as I.

Nov 4

Today was a work day. Not too exciting. I have to go back tomorrow, then I get a few days off. Turns out I will be coming home on Fri (thurs night to be exact), so i get to see my Grason. He is walking now! I can't wait to see him again! I will probably head to Spokane for a day or two to see my boyfriend, but I haven't decided for sure. It is a short weekend, but a weekend none-the-less.

National Blogging Month

Happy National blogging Month. I will try to keep to the challenge as well. Good luck to us all!!! Wow....I have no clue what to write daily. I guess I will think of something. How come I am only speechless when I HAVE to say something...weird?

Halloween 2006

So, I didn't get to go as a stick of gum. Mara decided people wouldn't understand, and I agreed (reluctantly, but agreed). So, she helped me chose to be a housewife. It was fun. We went to the dollar store, and got slippers, a frying pan, and some curlers. Then headed to Goodwill and found a housecoat. It was teal with ruffles, and
fit me perfect. It was like it was waiting for me to buy it. The whole costume was $8. Can't beat that. See pictures below.

Other than that, had a great time in Spokane visiting Mara. I also got a chance to see my boyfriend, Jeff. I hardly get to see him, so it was nice to be able to spend some time with him again.

Got into town on Fri night, headed to Kimmie's birthday party at a bar. Basically had
some fun bar time. I was the designated DD. I always am, and I like to be. I hate when my friends get drunk, and have to drive home...so I get to do the driving!! :) After I dropped off Mara at her house...I headed over to see Jeff. :)

Saturday, I spent all day with Mara. We went shopping, and got all the Halloween stuff. We had dinner at home, then headed to the Halloween party. It was fun. However, we didn't stay very long. Left at about 12:30 am to lacey/Jeremey's house. We just hung out and talked. Most of us didn't drink that night, so it ended up being an early night.

Sunday I got to spend with Jeff. Except for a few hours when Mara and I went to a play. It was called "Isn't it Romantic". It is about two girls living in NY (or somewhere close), and their lives. It was really good. Reminded me how much I miss theatre. I will need to see more plays around here too.

Afterwards, Jeff and I went to dinner and a movie. We went and saw the new Robin Williams movie "Man of the Year". It was classic Robin...hilarious. It was fun. Monday morning, I had to head back home. Boohoo! I hated leaving. I wish I could have stayed a week. Oh well.

So, I am home now. Nothing too exciting. I need to go running tonight, but I find myself being lazy again. Now it has been over a week since I have ran at all. If I don't get my butt in gear, I will be really upset!! I will run tonight. I WILL!!

Heading home to the TC next weekend. I will be there for sure Friday. May be heading back to Spokane on Fri night, but I don't know for sure right now. If not, I will hang out with my family. Yeah!!

Mara and Brent as a sexy bat, and a pornstar/construction worker :)


This is Tabby and Dave as Thing 1 and Thing 2. They are so creative!! Tabby just had her wisdom teeth pulled the day before, so didn't stay out long. I don't blame her. I was in bed for days after mine were pulled. Way to go Tabby!!


Lacey and Reanna.


This is Chris dressed as a gypsy. He looked better than some of the girls there!


Mara as a bat...in motion! Watch out everyone!


This is my whole costume. I am a housewife. Aren't I cute?


This is a closer look at me...now you can't deny how cute I am...I know you can't!!


The four of us. Meagan and Lacey were fairies, and Mara and me.