strangelogik

Ray LaMontagne - For The Summer

2011-02-02T12:32:00.000-08:00

Something about this guy's voice and the music heals me. Especially this one =)

A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned

2011-01-13T21:45:00.000-08:00

I've found a place in Bellingham that does gel nails for $15 per fill - normally I pay $40-50! Normally I try to stretch it and only get one fill a month. At $15 per fill I can get two fills and STILL be saving money! I'm so excited about this. I can't wait to see how it turns out tomorrow. Cross your finger(nails) that it'll be worth it!

February is going to be an exciting month, too. The last payment (before a $0 balance) on my HBC card is coming up - YaY! One less thing to pay each month. I like the sound of that, but I'm going to put the money that would have gone to my HBC account on my Sears card. Not as exciting as paying something off, but knowing the Sears card will get paid off quicker since I'll be able to put more money towards it is a happy thing. Yay =D

The Closet Organizer

2011-01-08T22:58:00.000-08:00

Recently I stumbled upon my receipt for a closet organizer I've been wanting to put up. It was dated January 3, 2010. Well, it's January 8, 2011, but it's finally up! It's not the most rock-solid of contraptions, so I'm interested to see how it holds up to my 7 zillion hoodies, sweaters, and cardigans. If I hear it all collapsing you'll be the first to know, right after I curse a blue streak ,o)

What the Future Holds

2011-01-07T23:45:00.000-08:00

Happy end-of-the-first-week-of-2011! I've been thinking a lot about what I've accomplished in 2010 and what I want to accomplish in 2011. I think I've finally finished going through the tough stuff; found out I'm bipolar and found a medication that makes me feel like I did 15 years ago when I was free of all this crap. I don't have that deer-in-headlights feeling and am getting a shit-tonne of stuff completed. For example, in the last couple days I've been cleaning out my closet (donating some stuff and organizing the rest) and taking down the old journey-rigged closet bar/shelf contraption. Tomorrow I'm going to put up the new closet organizer and finally have everything neat and tidy - YAY! What I want to focus on in 2011 is relaxing and restorative things. Like, say, I've always wanted to knit a sock. A pair would work better, but for now we'll keep expectations low and go for just one, single sock. I'd also like to take a belly dancing class, or at least something that's social and fun. Lastly, I'd like to finally get the basement cleared out so I can set up my make-shift photo studio.

So, what about you? What are you hoping to accomplish in 2011?

Wii = Whee!

2011-01-03T18:11:00.000-08:00

I bought a Wii and Wii fit bundle from a lady in Abbotsford yesterday. Came home and cleaned the tv and the area around it, tidied all my cables, etc before I set up the Wii gear. After all that I had a game of Wii bowling and then a game of boxing. I'm SO addicted to Wii boxing. So, since that area is looking so good I'm going to try to continue that by cleaning up the area between my coffee tables. It seems to be a misc drop spot in my living room. I don't know if that's going to happen or not, though; I've got a headache and I'm a big baby when I have a headache. I might just end up spending the night on the couch.

The Running of the Beagleys

2010-12-04T22:27:00.000-08:00

You've heard of the Running of the Bulls in Spain? This week was the Running of the Beagley's here in Mission - lol! This past week my family and I have reactivated our Costco membership, Mom bought her hearing aids and ordered her new glasses, I bought a hoodie, the Quinoa 365 cookbook, Knit the Season by Kate Jacobs, and a vacuum I'd been eying at Canadian Tire. Today I found a better vacuum at Zellers, and since Mom used my new vacuum's box to deliver gifts, it looks like I'm going to have to Craigslist the Cdn Tire vac instead of simply returning it. I also found a 3" memory foam thing for my bed at Zellers - $80, down from $185! I'm going to go collapse into it because tomorrow we're scheduled to pick up the other vacuum as well as look for a swivel rocker/recliner. Whew!

New Meds = New Me?

2010-11-08T22:43:00.000-08:00

Since I began those employment workshops in the summer I've realized just how much my mental health plays a role in my life. I decided to see if I could get disability and was given the 25-page application. I also received the name of a local advocate who would help me fill my portion of the application out. The advocate brought many things to light that I hadn't considered 'problems' or symptoms, but since that meeting I've been more mindful of my moods and have had a feeling that I'm more than just depressed. With a little research I matched my symptoms to bipolar disorder.

On Wednesday (Nov.3) I was able to see my doctor and mentioned this to him. He gave me a multi-page questionnaire to fill out. I went back on Friday (Nov.5) with the questionnaire filled out and the doctor looked it over, agreed that I am bipolar and prescribed me Co-Quetiapine to take along with the medications I'm already taking (Wellbutrin and Cipralex). I've been taking it since then and I'm wondering if what I'm feeling is due to the new medication. I found it easier to wake up this morning and I'm not so easily distracted - enough that I'm actually getting things done around here. I like this. I hope this is only the beginning. =)

Money's Tight Like Painted Clothing

2010-09-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

I had to take my cat to the Vet yesterday. I've been seeing little tufts of fur with a bit of skin attached falling out of his coat more than I'm comfortable with and thought that might be a sign of something. A visit that was only going to cost $57 ended up being $165 after 3 shots and a deworming pill. I don't bring in a bunch of money to begin with, so this will make October really tight, but I figure if I have to live on Kraft Dinner for a couple months (I'm going to bring in my other cat, Pepper, next month) so be it. At least I know exactly where they are, health-wise. While we were there the Vet said that Pea has a hole in his tooth which is fairly painful for him, although it wouldn't effect his eating or drinking. The estimate for Pea to have x-rays of all his teeth and a cleaning done came to $880 - $1200. She said we could just let it fall out naturally, but we won't know if any of the other teeth have the same problem. I'm so torn. On one hand, I want the x-rays so I know if his other teeth have the same problem; but on the other hand, holy crap - look at the cost! I don't think I'll ever have enough money for the procedure. For now, I'm just going to deal with getting Pepper up-to-date with her shots at the Vet visit next month.

Possibilities

2010-08-22T15:45:00.000-07:00

After finishing my course and practicum I passed out tonnes of resumes, had a good amount of interviews, but nothing came of any of it. I decided I needed government assistance while I continue the process.

I was approved for Income Assistance in June. Such a sigh of relief. Thankfully, my bills are paid every month now. I've also been able to get 8 fillings which helped eliminate the sensitivity all over my mouth. Now I'm eating things I haven't eaten in a year or more! I've also been able to get a $354 IUD for free being that birth control pills give me debilitating migraines. I hate to say it, but not being able to get a job has been the best thing I could ever (not) do!

I'm feeling like a million bucks since having my health concerns dealt with. So much, in fact, that I've decided to start my own crafty business. Right now I'm cleaning out everything that's hanging around. Some of it's going to be donated, but other things are being photographed and listed on Craigslist and cheapcycle, etc. I'm going to use whatever money I make from the sale of those items to buy a decent camera so I can take and sell photos on Etsy. From there I wouldn't mind rolling it into a photography services business taking pictures for local companys' advertisements and so on.

I'm also considering becoming a piercing apprentice. I've always loved piercings, I used to pierce myself when I was 12ish, and for a long time I've wanted to have a career where I can show my piercings while I'm working. It makes a lot of sense. I'm looking into taking an emergency first aid course at the local rec center because I know that's a pre-requisite. Thankfully, the rec center has a program for individuals with low-income where they pay 50% (up to $25) of whatever course you want to take there. The EFA course is $100, but I'm hoping I can get Income Assistance to pay for whatever the rec center won't.

Speaking of the rec center, I've decided to swim laps in their pool Monday through Thursday. I stopped eating meat on July 5th and am eating more and more vegetables. I'd like to couple this with some exercise and see what happens.

Le sigh. Life is good.

Spring Has Sprung and I'm Out of School!

2010-03-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

New template for a new season! My nose is as itchy as hell, but I see more sunshine, so it's all good ,o)

Since my last post: Last half of the ABT program, gastro-intestinal issues, murderous tendencies, relief, photocopying, frustration, cat fur, Shirley Temples, routine, Lilian Jackson Braun, more purging of 'stuff', missing my ladies, and soon Knit Nights.

UFV's Applied Business Technology program is one intense mofo, that's for sure. I have no idea how people get 100% on all their assignments, or hold down a job at the same time. Maybe I'm of the weaker variety, who knows? All I know is that I've survived it and not too shabbily, either. Now I'm just applying for jobs, brainstorming home-based-business ideas, and trying to get through the rest of boxes in the basement. Keep your fingers crossed for me! =D

UGH: The Plight of the Adult Daughter Living at Home

2010-01-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

One thing I can't stand about living at home is that whenever I'm asked to do something for my parents I, for some unknown reason, seem to always do it wrong. I always feel like a failure in front of them.

Turning My World Around

2009-12-30T23:30:00.000-08:00

Today was a good day. I love puttering around the house! I cleaned out one of my little Ikea dressers and dragged it to my living room where my desk is, as I mentioned in a previous entry, for storage of office supplies and my coffee pot, etc. I transported my printer to the top of the dresser, too. So, now I have a lot more space on my desk.

Unfortunately, what it leaves me with in the bedroom is a side table to hold my clock radio and reading lamp. Not terribly stylish, and definitely not turning my crank. Thankfully, I saw a small 4 tier shelving unit that would fit really well with my new vintage bedroom set, hold all my little do-dads, and also work as a night stand to hold my clock radio. They're pretty cheap, too, so I might pick those up in the morning.

At the same time I'm thinking of picking up a cheap closet organizer kit I also saw at Walmart. It has a shelving unit in the middle, which would be great for all the cardigans I own. I've been trying to figure out what to do with them for a while now, but hadn't seen anything that would work as well until now.

Looks like I might be turning a screwdriver when the new year begins!

Whoohoo, Merry Christmas to me!

2009-12-27T01:15:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful Christmas it's been! I've been working so hard on the course I'm taking that this break has been a Godsend.

Just before Christmas break I was given a vintage 1950's bedroom set (head & foot-board, high-boy dresser, and a vanity table with a huge mirror) so most of my time off has been spent ogling them. I want to move my old dresser beside this desk to store office as well as coffee/tea-making supplies.

The vanity is so beautiful. I've wanted one for years, too, so you can imagine my joy when it was offered! I'm going to be transferring all of my beauty items into its 5 big drawers, which will give my bathroom cupboards space for cleaning and toiletry supplies.

I'm so excited about transforming my bedroom now that I have the vanity and dresser in there. I've decided to give it a 1950s farm feel. I bought this gorgeous quilting book and am going to make the "English Country Garden" pillow cases, as well as a matching quilt, for the bed. I'm also going to pick one of the base fabrics and make some cute little curtains, although I haven't yet decided what style they'll be.

I have to say, I'm really enjoying domestic life. So much, in fact, that I'm considering starting up an eBay business and being done with outside employment. I know I would enjoy it much more, that's for sure.

Until next time, happy holidays! =D

Musical Week

2009-11-27T23:48:00.000-08:00

What a wonderfully musical week :) A few nights ago I was hankering for some old-school Eagles and, thankfully, remembered that I received a $10 iTunes gift card from Shoppers Drug Mart a month or so back. I hopped online and bought their Greatest Hits (1971-75) and grooved my way through some Bookkeeping homework. Last night on TV I watched both the Paul McCartney special AND the Beyonce special. Lots of singing along was done. To round out the week, I watched the Terri Clark specials tonight on CMT. Now, I think I'll catch up on my movie-watching ,P

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T21:27:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone's Halloween went well. I had originally intended on seeing a musical/play version of the movie Evil Dead. Unfortunately, I'm currently a "starving student" and needed the money so I had to sell my ticket =( Happily, though, I was able to spend the night with a friend of mine who made Butternut Squash Ravioli - from scratch no less - that was to die for! We watched scary movies and ate junk, which is my usual Halloween activities, after he made the ravioli. Fun, fun, fun. Now if I could only buy up all the discounted candy...

I Don't Like Condoms, But I Like You

2009-07-21T14:30:00.000-07:00

LOL!

Check out this utterly romantic song.

If anyone can play guitar, I'd love to hear this!

Turtle Orgasm

2009-07-21T14:26:00.001-07:00

I felt kind of wrong after watching this...

Check the video out

:/

Last Day of Freedom

2009-07-20T00:34:00.000-07:00

I've had a wonderful week "off." I got a few things done for the office, read a third of my book (so excited to be reading "Knit Two" by Kate Jacobs), and even had time to start revamping my wardrobe! Monday is going to be all about continuing the last quarter's bookkeeping, reading more of my book (since it's due back to the library on the 27th), and doing a bit more in my closet. I'm still not sure if I should ebay what I'm taking out of there or if I should just donate it all to the Salvation Army. I guess we'll see how fed up of it all I get =P

Blisters

2009-07-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

I had the most amazing day yesterday. Actually, it started the day before when I received a call from a Real Estate office in response to me sending in my resume and cover letter for a job they had posted on Craigstlist. The hiring manager asked me if I could come in Friday at 11am. Of course I can! I spent that night running around looking for work clothes that fit right and figuring out the bus schedules from here to there. Previous to the interview invite I was actually wondering about my resume. Wondering if I should have it re-written since I hadn't had a call-back in the 7 months I've had it.

Friday morning came and I got ready and rushed out the door. Realized that when I lost some weight a while back I had also lost some weight on my feet. I normally wear a size 6-wide since my feet tend to look like little marshmallows in regular width heels. Half way to the bus stop I was getting annoyed at how they were flopping around and started feeling the beginning of blisters on the backs of my heels and on the balls of my feet. I'd have turned around, went back and changed my shoes, but I didn't want to miss the bus. I was glad to sit down when the bus did eventually arrive. My "dogs" were already barking.

Got to the realty office with 20 minutes to spare and was speaking to the hiring manager moments after arriving. She remembered me from my time as an assistant to a couple of the Realtors in the office and mentioned that it was good that I'd been here before because I already knew how busy it can be and what kind of people are there. I agreed, I know I enjoy the people there and the job is not difficult for me. After the interview the hiring manager mentioned that she'd give me a call somewhere around the middle of next week. Cross your fingers for me!

After that I had to pop in to Shoppers Drug Mart so I hobbled across the street to the mall and entered via the Sears doors. I had no idea they were having such a huge sale! 60-70% off, and if you charged your purchases to your Sears card they'd give you an additional 50% off of the lowest ticketed price! Bras were buy one get the second for $3. It really felt like an omen - get your wardrobe set up so you can look good at your future job. So, I checked it all out.

I found a couple of t-shirt material tops. One is red and white striped with a large open neck which would look great with a dark pair of pants, jeans (very nautical!), or khakis which (originally $30, discounted to $9); the other was an aqua, 3/4 sleeve boat-neck number which also would go good dressed up (can't wait to wear it with my charcoal pants and my thick gold necklace!) or with trouser-styled jeans (originally $20, discounted to $5). Going to have to go to Superstore to find some Joe Fresh jeans to match with them. I also picked up the aforementioned charcoal dress pants (originally $69, discounted to $17.50), and a beautiful round-neck, navy blue knit sweater (originally $50, discounted to $7.50). I picked up two light-weight jackets: one is a black with 3/4 sleeve - I can't wait to wear it with long leather gloves (originally $70, discounted to $10)! The other is a tan/beige/khaki with sleeves that roll up and are secured by button (not on sale). Lastly, I picked up a new pair of Aerosole shoes, mule-style (heel-less) with an elastic strap over the main part of the foot so it doesn't flip-flop around (originally $70, discounted to $17.50). Whew... lots of trying on! I was wiped out after that, but it was definitely worth it. I'm actually considering going back to take advantage of their bra sale - buy one, get the second for $3. Can't beat that deal, the bras end up averaging $20 a piece!

I had to have a good, long rest in one of the overstuffed chairs in the halls and re-hydrate after that. I switched my shoes to the new ones I had bought so there wouldn't be anything rubbing on the blisters on the backs of my heels.

On the ride home I people-watched and saw a gal with great hair get off the bus at my stop. I wonder who she is and if she'd like a shop-a-holic new friend? hehe ,oP I hobbled the rest of the way home in 30oC heat and stripped down to my skivvies when I got inside the house. Immediately turned on the air-conditioning and sat in front of it. At dusk I had a diet dr. pepper on the deck and enjoyed the breezes.

Ahh... aside from the blisters it was a wonderful day. =D

Weblog Software: Blogo

2008-12-31T17:06:00.000-08:00

I've just downloaded a new (to me) desktop blogging software from BrainJuice called Blogo. So far, so good! I can write and publish new blogs through a variety of blogging software (blogger, word press, movable type, etc...), edit old posts, update my microblog (ie: twitter), and a bunch of other exciting stuff. Play time!

Freshening Up

2008-12-29T22:54:00.000-08:00

I'm changing the theme. Still some bugs that I'm working out, but that shouldn't take too long. =D

Shopping Therapy Time!

2008-10-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

I bought this to go with this. It's going to be gorgeous! Now I just have to find shoes...

Again

2008-10-29T21:06:00.000-07:00

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, 'I really wish someone was interested in me.' The majority of the last decade has been spent alone. I've been 'friends with benefits' with Man A for the last few months. Now I'm starting to have feelings for said man. I think it's because, as previously mentioned, I haven't had a second look in almost a decade now. Because of this my friendship with Man A has been ruined. I told him and no surprise to me he doesn't have any feelings for me. I just wish I could be cryogenically frozen until the world has found me a mate because seriously, it hurts more and more each day.

Dave Barry's Colonoscopy

2008-09-03T10:29:00.000-07:00

I called my friend Andy Sable, a gastroenterologist, to make an appointment for a colonoscopy. A few days later, in his office, Andy showed me a color diagram of the colon, a lengthy organ that appears to go all over the place, at one point passing briefly through Minneapolis . Then Andy explained the colonoscopy procedure to me in a thorough, reassuring and patient manner. I nodded thoughtfully, but I didn't really hear anything he said, because my brain was shrieking, quote, 'HE'S GOING TO STICK A TUBE 17,000 FEET UP YOUR BEHIND!'

I left Andy's office with some written instructions, and a prescription for a product called 'MoviPrep,' which comes in a box large enough to hold a microwave oven. I will discuss MoviPrep in detail later; for now suffice it to say that we must never allow it to fall into the hands of America 's enemies.

I spent the next several days productively sitting around being nervous. Then, on the day before my colonoscopy, I began my preparation. In accordance with my instructions, I didn't eat any solid food that day; all I had was chicken broth, which is basically water, only with less flavour. Then, in the evening, I took the MoviPrep. You mix two packets of powder together in a one-litre plastic jug, then you fill it with lukewarm water. (For those unfamiliar with the metric system, a litre is about 32 gallons.) Then you have to drink the whole jug. This takes about an hour, because MoviPrep tastes - and here I am being kind - like a mixture of goat spit and urinal cleanser, with just a hint of lemon.

The instructions for MoviPrep, clearly written by somebody with a great sense of humour, state that after you drink it, 'a loose, watery bowel movement may result.' This is kind of like saying that after you jump off your roof, you may experience contact with the ground.

MoviPrep is a nuclear laxative. I don't want to be too graphic, here, but: Have you ever seen a space-shuttle launch? This is pretty much the MoviPrep experience, with you as the shuttle. There are times when you wish the commode had a seat belt. You spend several hours pretty much confined to the bathroom, spurting violently. You eliminate everything. And then, when you figure you must be totally empty, you have to drink another litre of MoviPrep, at which point, as far as I can tell, your bowels travel into the future and start eliminating food that you have not even eaten yet.

After an action-packed evening, I finally got to sleep. The next morning my wife drove me to the clinic. I was very nervous. Not only was I worried about the procedure, but I had been experiencing occasional return bouts of MoviPrep spurtage. I was thinking, 'What if I spurt on Andy?' How do you apologize to a friend for something like that? Flowers would not be enough.

At the clinic I had to sign many forms acknowledging that I understood and totally agreed with whatever the heck the forms said. Then they led me to a room full of other colonoscopy people, where I went inside a little curtained space and took off my clothes and put on one of those hospital garments designed by sadist perverts, the kind that, when you put it on, makes you feel even more naked than when you are actually naked.

Then a nurse named Eddie put a little needle in a vein in my left hand. Ordinarily I would have fainted, but Eddie was very good, and I was already lying down. Eddie also told me that some people put vodka in their MoviPrep. At first I was ticked off that I hadn't thought of this is, but then I pondered what would happen if you got yourself too tipsy to make it to the bathroom, so you were staggering around in full Fire Hose Mode. You would have no choice but to burn your house.

When everything was ready, Eddie wheeled me into the procedure room, where Andy was waiting with a nurse and an anesthesiologist. I did not see the 17,000-foot tube, but I knew Andy had it hidden around there somewhere. I was seriously nervous at this point. Andy had me roll over on my left side, and the anesthesiologist began hooking something up to the needle in my hand. There was music playing in the room, and I realized that the song was 'Dancing Queen' by ABBA. I remarked to Andy that, of all the songs that could be playing during this particular procedure, 'Dancing Queen' had to be the
least appropriate.

'You want me to turn it up?' said Andy, from somewhere behind me. 'Ha ha,' I said. And then it was time, the moment I had been dreading for more than a decade. If you are squeamish, prepare yourself, because I am going to tell you, in explicit detail, exactly what it was like.

I have no idea. Really. I slept through it. One moment, ABBA was yelling Dancing Queen, feel the beat of the tambourine,' and the next moment, I was back in the other room, waking up in a very mellow mood. Andy was looking down at me and asking me how I felt. I felt excellent. I felt even more excellent when Andy told me that it was all over, and that my colon had
passed with flying colors. I have never been prouder of an internal organ.

ABOUT THE WRITER: Dave Barry is a Pulitzer Prize-winning humour columnist
for the Miami Herald.

Gavin DeGraw

2008-08-31T21:48:00.000-07:00

I bought tickets to see Gavin DeGraw at the Commodore on October 2nd. I hate to say it but I bought those tickets simply because he's pretty to look at. Take for example this:

and...

But then again, I've seen this...

So I'm a little scared.

Thankfully there'll be booze, so even if he's a loss there'll still be some win in there. ,oP

Kidney Infection

2008-08-31T21:39:00.000-07:00

So, it wasn't gall stones that had me running to the emergency room, it was a kidney infection. The day after I had seen my doctor to get some pain meds I found a fair amount of blood in my urine and ended up seeing my doc again. He put two and two together and said he was so positive it was a kidney infection that he prescribed me some antibiotics and told me to see him again in a week's time. I have to make that appointment still but I'm feel all better. YAY!

So That's What Gal Stones Feel Like

2008-08-20T16:10:00.000-07:00

I woke up at 5am on Tuesday morning. I honestly thought I was having a mild heart attack although, the pain ended up settling to the right of my stomach and went all the way to my back. I was in such pain that I ended up calling the place I'm temping at to let them know I won't be coming in that day. I spent a few hours that morning in the hospital trying to figure out what was going on. The doctor that saw me mentioned that it sounded like gal stones. By that time the attack was subsiding. I was really happy about that, and by that time I was really tired of being at the hospital. The doctor didn't give me any advice on how to keep the pain down, but he did mention I'd have to see my doctor and set up an ultrasound. If need be I'd have to have my gal bladder out. I came home and fought through another attack.

Today I saw my doctor who gave me a prescription for Tylenol 3s and a form for the ultrasound. I'm taking it easy for the next couple days, and trying to get used to fat free/spice free food. I've called for the ultrasound appointment and the next available time was Sept. 22. I was shocked, but I took it and also put my name on the waitlist for any cancelled appointment times. I want to get this done ASAP! Now I just have to wait.

I Need a Rock to Hide Under

2008-08-15T20:33:00.000-07:00

I had such a shitty day. It started out at quarter to eight in the morning with me getting told by my father that I'm too independent, too fat & pale, and too lame to make a good impression on people. I don't know about my parents these days, though. I've been kitty-sitting at a friend's house this week and the day I was to head over to begin kitty-sitting my mother blurts out that I should be in a dress and fancied up as if I were going to an Eastern Star meeting because I was going out.

I'm glad I've 'seen the light' so to speak in regards to becoming my true self. If I hadn't I'd be in tears wondering why I'm always so wrong and how can I please them and get back into their good books. Don't get me wrong, it still bothers me that they aren't accepting of me as is, but I'd rather be 30 and make my own decisions (whether the outcome is good or bad) than 30 and doing everything my parents tell me like a robot.

Joke: The Chicken Farmer

2008-08-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

A woman walks into an accountant's office and tells him that she needs to file her taxes.

The accountant says, 'Before we begin, I'll need to ask you a few questions.'

He gets her name, address, social security number, etc.

And then asks, 'What's your occupation?'

'I'm a Lady of the Night,' she says.

The accountant is somewhat taken aback and says, 'Let's try to rephrase that.'

The woman says, 'OK, I'm a high-end call girl.'

'No, that still won't work. Try again.'

They both think for a minute; then the woman says, 'I'm an elite chicken farmer.'

The accountant asks, 'What does chicken farming have to do with being a prostitute?'

'Well, I raised a thousand little peckers last year'

'Chicken Farmer it is.'

Personal Brown Outs

2008-08-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

I have a tendency to go through what I call "brown outs." Basically, a block of time where I hide in my house, don't talk to anyone, and barely keep up personal hygiene. Not being able to make it to my friend's wedding reception threw me into a brown out and I've only just realized that I'm starting to smell. I think it's time to shake it off and brave the showers.

People Pleaser

2008-08-08T08:51:00.000-07:00

Ever since I turned 30 I've been elbows-deep into turning my life around. As mentioned in a previous post, I've been lacking a reason for getting up in the morning. Nothing seems important/exciting/happy-making enough anymore.

About a month ago I realized just how much of a people pleaser I was, especially where my parents are concerned. I suppose I had known all along, but sometimes you need it brought to light to actually become aware of it. All these years I've been putting on a show, saying and doing what I thought would gain me the backing I needed to feel confident and successful. That never happened and I now realize why: my parents' insecurities about themselves lead them to react negatively towards me and the things I wanted to do which they had no confidence in themselves of doing. Does that make sense?

Living with my parents until now only made me blind to it longer. I find that graduating and then going straight into working in the family company kept me from seeing it. Everybody has the tendency to get complacent when their situation doesn't change, and that's exactly what happened to me. I lived many years as I had all my life - depending on my parents for every little thing. I hadn't realized how dependant I was becoming because the situation wasn't changing drastically. It was many small changes over a long period of time. I assume it would be hard for anyone to clue in right away when it happens that slowly. Personally, I just assumed it was the ebb and flow of life.

So, now I'm left having to be stronger than the average bear because I have to put whatever plans in action without the support of those around me (a. because of my parents' insecurities, and b. simply because I'm out in the boonies and lack daily human interaction much of the time). Bugger.

Becoming aware of this, however, seems to make it easier to move forward with the things I've always wanted to accomplish. Yes, Bill, we're baby-stepping.

Yearly Horoscope

2008-08-01T10:41:00.000-07:00

As I've mentioned in the previous post, I've been trying to figure out how to get back to what I was feeling like a decade ago. On a whim while I was reading the Province online today I hopped over to their horoscopes for a giggle. I clicked on 'Yearly Overview' and this is what I read:

This year, idealistic Aquarius shines brightly. You truly are a visionary with a high sense of purpose and an advanced way of thinking. It will be very easy for you to express your individuality and altruistic ideals. New opportunities will arise to express your true feelings and perceptions in ways that increase your confidence. You enjoy having a large audience to express your passion for the arts and philanthropic activities and taking your visionary attitudes to the world to support your personal integrity. You feel very blessed by the wonderful connections you are making to express your concepts. You will find you can relate well to others and enjoy spreading your wings more to be with others in the community. Your attitude of enjoying life to its fullest carries over and makes you popular in your professional life. The kindness you have been able to give to others will come back to you tenfold. People will appreciate your consideration and friendliness. With your need to concentrate and be independent, you prefer working in your own business and behind the scenes rather than with other people (I've been working on opening an accessories shop online - adorn.ca). You thrive on wanting to be different, and you will have lots of new resources to help you for achieve a greater good in life. You'll have lots of energy and won't overlook all the details you seem to need to take care of. You will definitely be working hard to manifest your greater visions in life (What have I been talking about?). You have such an amazing flair for an unusual and unique sense of design (You should see the jewelry I'm going to be selling!). Expressing your individual creative inspiration will be a strong motivation to you to make changes in your physical environment this year (New York, anyone?). You may even want to redecorate your house or start over from scratch. Mysticism and the arts are very attractive and you benefit from paying attention to your inner voice, and learning to follow its guidance, rather than depending on the changing reflections of those around you (I have a post coming up about this). You are fascinated by the unknowable mysteries of your own inner world and might want to express the inspiration you are tuning into through music and writing (Hmm... I've been thinking of taking music lessons...).

I have to remind myself of this and my plans for the future when I get down or impatient.

Melancholy

2008-07-31T19:24:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling very melancholic lately. A few weeks ago I was messing around youtube and it hit me that I'm content, I'm just not happy. Or at least happy like I was in, say, 1998. I remember a few years after that I literally packed the music away. At the time I needed the break and it was good to have peace and quiet. Ten years later though, it feels like I'm hollow inside.

Monday night I heard part of a Matthew Good Band tune on the TV upstairs. The rest of the night I was lost in memories of driving into Vancouver with Len and all the laughter that would ensue, standing in dark bars completely enveloped in sound almost floating between the notes, me and B gussying up for a night on the town. Everything else in life then was inconsequential, just a hoop to jump through to get to the next exciting thing.

Now I just sit. Distracting myself. I gotta find that inner joy again.

I Want a Pug

2008-07-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

Flirxting = Let's Get It On!

2008-07-23T14:19:00.000-07:00

Never Satisfied

2008-07-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

I often wonder why I'm never satisfied. I never seem to have the stuff I really want. Take for example, this morning I received an email from Juicy Couture announcing the release of a few new items to their website. I fell madly in love and decided I needed the Desi Canvas shoes, the Guitar Wish necklace, and the Shooting Star necklace.

I wonder if this will ease once I get rid of all these boxes of things I don't want anymore? I ask because I recently bought a Coach handbag, and now I don't want every handbag under the sun. I'm satisfied in that department. It's an odd feeling. I've always want, want, wanted and now I don't (at least in respect to handbags). I really must get rid of all this extra baggage/stuff and find out just how much inner calm and happiness I can achieve.

'Member Me?

2008-07-22T13:16:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

I'm still up in the air about registering MEW.nu. It's $60/year just for the domain name! I loved MEW.nu, but I'd much rather spend that money on something sparkly.

T
,o)

Newest Family Member

2006-09-08T15:57:00.000-07:00

Newest Family Member,
originally uploaded by hellkitty.

We just adopted a new baby girl! We haven't named her yet, buuuut... She's approximately 10 weeks old, and the cutest calico ever, ever, ever! ,o)

GETTING RID OF SMELLS

2006-02-08T12:03:00.000-08:00

A bowl of white vinegar will absorb all kinds of household odors, even cigarette smoke. Placing one on the counter before you start to cook will go a long way in keeping the odors to a minimum so they don't permeate your apartment. As a routine measure, hide a bowl of vinegar in other places, like on top of cupboards, behind the couch or even on a bookshelf in a pretty vase or container.

FIRE STARTER

2006-02-08T11:41:00.000-08:00

Taken from the Everyday Cheapskate newsletter: My dad, who was a Boy Scout leader, taught me this: When camping, pack a zipper-type bag full of dryer lint. When you go to start your campfire, use just a little bit of this "kindling" and light it. It is very flammable and makes a perfect fire-starter.

Funnies - Loyalty in Marriage

2006-02-01T15:56:00.000-08:00

Loyalty in Marriage

A woman's husband had been slipping in and out of a coma for several months, yet she had stayed by his bedside every single day. One day, he motioned for her to come nearer.

As she sat by him, he whispered, eyes full of tears, "You know what?
You have been with me all through the bad times.

When I got fired, you were there to support me. When my business failed, you were there. When I got shot, you were by my side. When we lost the house, you stayed right here. When my health started failing, you were still by my side...You know what?"

"What dear?" she gently asked, smiling as her heart began to fill with warmth.

"I think you're bad luck, get the hell away from me."

Most Important Trait in a Mate

2006-01-28T16:46:00.000-08:00

Humor hits top of North American's list.

Poor Kitty!

2006-01-24T02:21:00.000-08:00

Cyclopes Kitten

I Have a Kitty!

2006-01-24T01:22:00.000-08:00

Before the great news, check out "Need for Speed" - it's hilarious!

Okay, on to the happy news... My family and I found this little cutie at the Chilliwack SPCA at the end of December. We would've taken him right then and there, but he was only 7 weeks old - not old enough to leave the shelter. After a number of things happening (Christmas, a kitty room lock-down, etc) we finally were able to bring him home on January 4th of this year. Because there was a case of distemper in the kitty room the lady suggested fostering him before we adopt. At that point we would do anything to get him home so we agreed, filled out the paperwork, and brought him home.

I named him Peanut, but I should've called him Polly for the amount of time he spends on my shoulder. He's such a loving cat - always has a kiss and a lick and a rub for everyone. He loves being close; any time he gets sleepy he always wants to nap on your chest right up at your neck. I'm so in love +o)

Today

2006-01-14T01:53:00.000-08:00

Today was difficult. I don't do well when all my faults are listed one right after the other. I know my faults. They don't make me happy, but I'm doing my best. The best I can do right now. At least some things are getting done.

KILLING GERMS ON SPONGES

2006-01-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

Running sponges in the dishwasher with detergent gets rid of a lot of germs, but putting the sponge in the microwave for a minute will zap even more, since it gets much hotter in there. Whatever method you use, be sure to do it every other day. You should also change sponges frequently to avoid bacteria buildup; definitely toss them after three weeks.
Taken from the January 2006 issue of Fitness magazine

Onward and Upward

2006-01-08T00:14:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I started an additional medication and since then I've been feeling better and better. It's like I've been living in a heavy fog for the last 5 years and it's finally disapating. Since the clearing of said fog I've been getting a lot done around here. It also helps that my parents gave me the space under the stairs to store the things I want to keep, but don't want under my feet all the time. I'm putting almost everything in there at the moment so that when everything is stored and I give my room a good cleaning I can add back what I want without over-filling it. I've already put a bin of clothes that I like but are too small for me at the moment, as well as all the stuffed animals and trinkets I've ammassed over the years, and the 481 squares I need to stitch together for Blankets4Canada. I have a pile of magazines I need to go through and rip out the articles and recipes I want to keep.

Once everything unnecessary is out of my room I want to buy this bookshelf (and possibly an additional 2' bookshelf of the same brand), put some glass doors on them (preferably smoked glass) and put all my books, dvds, vhs tapes and my remaining cds in there. I'd also like to get a loft bed and put the desk attachment in there as well. I just don't want to use up all that space. I don't want to get a twin loft bed simply because I'd have to buy all my bedding again. I could, however, buy a sofa bed that has a double sized pull out in it? Meh, I'm torn on that one.

All I know is that I need organization and I need it bad. I'll get there soon enough. +o)

This n' That

2006-01-07T23:08:00.000-08:00

I added a bunch of new tips to This n' That. Enjoy!

THE GLORY OF TOOTHPASTE

2006-01-07T22:57:00.000-08:00

Toothpaste does have several uses! Take your fingernails, for example. They are close in composition to your teeth, so toothpaste does a great job of getting them sparkling white, too. Just put some toothpaste on an old manual toothbrush, wet your nails, and scrub on top and under your nails. Use white toothpaste to clean your running shoes, or to fill small nail holes. It dries hard like Spackle. Toothpaste (any type) is also the best whiteboard cleaner around. It gets rid of all the markings and the telltale "ghosts" as well. Just apply a small amount with a damp cloth, scrub, rinse well and buff dry. One caution: Never clean your jewelry or fine silver with toothpaste, a commonly held use for toothpaste. First, it is slightly abrasive, but even more damaging is the effect when even the smallest amount gets left behind in cracks or crevices. It will require the equivalent of a jackhammer for a jeweler to remove because it dries hard. Remember those nail holes.
(Taken from the Everyday Cheapskate newsletter)

SEE-THROUGH RECIPES

2006-01-07T22:54:00.000-08:00

When my cookbook won't lie flat when opened on the counter, I place a glass baking dish on the pages. I can read the recipe through the glass. As a bonus, the glass keeps the cookbook pages clean, too.
(Taken from the Everyday Cheapskate newsletter)

KEY INDEX

2006-01-07T22:53:00.000-08:00

To keep track of what key opens which lock, simply trace the outline of each key on a 3-by-5 index card. Write down what lock it fits -- whether office, home, a gym locker, a bicycle padlock or a storage trunk, or maybe even grandma's house. Then file the cards away in a safe place for future reference. You can even tape the keys you're not using to the correct card and store them until you need them.
(Taken from the Everyday Cheapskate newsletter)

STATIC & HAIR

2006-01-07T22:50:00.000-08:00

With winter approaching and living in a very dry climate, my hair tends to have a lot of static electricity. By spraying the commercial product Static Guard on my hairbrush and lightly brushing through, the "fly away" hairs remain in place.
(Taken from the Everyday Cheapskate newsletter)

CLEANING BLINDS

2006-01-07T22:46:00.000-08:00

Hang your blinds over the clothesline. Spray with Scrubbing Bubbles or a similar cleaning product. Let the bubbles do their job. Then spray with the garden hose to rinse. Let dry and see how clean they are.
(Taken from the Everyday Cheapskate newsletter)

SELF-ESTEEM BOOSTER

2006-01-07T22:43:00.000-08:00

Most people feel bad about themselves from time to time. Feelings of low self-esteem may be triggered by being treated poorly by someone else recently or in the past, or by a person's own judgments of him or herself. This is normal. However, low self-esteem is a constant companion for too many people, especially those who experience depression, anxiety, phobias, psychosis, delusional thinking, or who have an illness or a disability. If you are one of these people, you may go through life feeling bad about yourself needlessly. Low self-esteem keeps you from enjoying life, doing the things you want to do, and working toward personal goals.

Making lists, rereading them often, and rewriting them from time to time will help you to feel better about yourself. If you have a journal, you can write your lists there. If you don't, any piece of paper will do.

Make a list of :

- At least five of your strengths, for example, persistence, courage, friendliness, creativity
- At least five things you admire about yourself, for example the way you have raised your children, your good relationship with someone in your family, or your spirituality
- The five greatest achievements in your life so far, like recovering from a serious illness, graduating from high school, or learning to use a computer
- At least 20 other accomplishments — they can be as simple as learning to tie your shoes, to getting an advanced college degree
- Ten ways you can "treat" or reward yourself that don't include food and that don't cost anything, such as walking in woods, window-shopping, or chatting with a friend
- Ten things you can do to make yourself laugh
- Ten things you could do to help someone else
- Things that you do that make you feel good about yourself

- Taken from the Emotional Health newsletter

STAIN SOLUTION

2006-01-07T22:32:00.000-08:00

I have discovered that Pine Sol, when used in addition to the regular detergent, is very effective in removing grease and heavy soils from your laundry. Simply rub it full-strength on grease spots or heavily soiled areas before machine-washing. For extra deodorizing power, you can add 1/2 cup to the wash load. Pine Sol should be used only on white or colorfast fabrics. If you're not sure about a particular article of clothing, it's always a good idea to test the fabric in an inconspicuous area first. A small amount really does wonders.
(Taken from the Everyday Cheapskate newsletter)

Frustrating

2006-01-07T02:02:00.000-08:00

You know how you meet someone and you want to get to know them, but when you try it feels like you're pulling teeth? Yeah. Right there.

BAMBOO DISPOSABLE DISHES

2006-01-02T17:14:00.000-08:00

I found this in the Dec/Jan (p.20) issue of Real Simple. Now I can't wait to have a get-together!

"Bamboo You When times call for disposable dishes but your inner fancy-pants balks, upgrade to Banbu Veneerware ($9.50 doe eight dinner plates; $4.50 for eight salad plates; greenfeet.com). These single-use organic-bamboo dishes look much nicer than paper or plastic, plus they contain no bleaches or dyes, decompose in less than six months, and are sturdy enough to keep the guacamole out of guests' laps."

The 2006 New Years Resolution Generator

2005-12-30T19:00:00.000-08:00

In the year 2006 I resolve to:

Give myself an anal probe.

Get your resolution here

HOUSEHOLD HELPERS

2005-12-27T14:36:00.000-08:00

Drinking two glasses of Gatorade can relieve headache pain almost immediately -- without the unpleasant side effects caused by traditional "pain relievers."

Did you know that Colgate toothpaste makes an excellent salve for burns.

Before you head to the drugstore for a high-priced inhaler filled with mysterious chemicals, try chewing on a couple of curiously strong Altoids peppermints. They'll clear up your stuffed nose.

Achy muscles from a bout of the flu? Mix 1 Tablespoon of horseradish in 1 cup of olive oil. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, then apply it as a massage oil, for instant relief for aching muscles.

Sore throat? Just mix 1/4 cup of vinegar with 1/4 cup of honey and take 1 tablespoon six times a day. The vinegar kills the bacteria.

Cure urinary tract infections with Alka-Seltzer . Just dissolve two tablets in a glass of water and drink it at the onset of the symptoms. Alka-Seltzer begins eliminating urinary tract infections almost instantly -- even though the product was never been advertised for this use. (Note: Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold Medicine is not the same..and contains aspirin, which can cause stomach bleeding if you have ulcers.)

Honey remedy for skin blemishes... Cover the blemish with a dab of honey and place a Band-Aid over it. Honey kills the bacteria, keeps the skin sterile, and speeds healing. Works overnight.

Listerine therapy for toenail fungus... Get rid of unsightly toenail fungus by soaking your toes in Listerine mouthwash. The powerful antiseptic leaves your toenails looking healthy again.

Easy eyeglass protection... To prevent the screws in eyeglasses from loosening, apply a small drop of Maybelline Crystal Clear nail polish to the threads of the screws before tightening them.

Coca-Cola cure for rust... Forget those expensive rust removers. Just saturate an abrasive sponge with Coca Cola and scrub the rust stain. The phosphoric acid in the coke is what gets the job done.

Cleaning liquid that doubles as bug killer... If menacing bees, wasps, hornets, or yellow jackets get in your home and you can't find the insecticide, try a spray of Formula 409. Insects drop to the ground instantly.

Smart splinter remover...just pour a drop of Elmer's Glue-All over the splinter, let dry, and peel the dried glue off the skin. The splinter sticks to the dried glue.

Hunt's tomato paste boil cure....cover the boil with Hunt's tomato paste as a compress. The acids from the tomatoes soothe the pain and bring the boil to a head.

Balm for broken blisters...To disinfect a broken blister, dab on a few drops of Listerine ... a powerful antiseptic.

Heinz vinegar to heal bruises... Soak a cotton ball in white vinegar and apply it to the bruise for 1 hour. The vinegar reduces the blueness and speeds up the healing process.

Kills fleas instantly. Dawn dish washing liquid does the trick. Add a few drops to your dog's bath and shampoo the animal thoroughly. Rinse well to avoid skin irritations. Goodbye fleas.

Rainy day cure for dog odor... Next time your dog comes in from the rain, simply wipe down the animal with Bounce or any dryer sheet, instantly making your dog smell springtime fresh.

Eliminate ear mites... All it takes is a few drops of Wesson corn oil in your cat's ear. Massage it in, then clean with a cotton ball. Repeat daily for 3 days. The oil soothes the cat's skin, smothers the mites, and accelerates healing.

Quaker Oats for fast pain relief....It's not for breakfast anymore! Mix 2 cups of Quaker Oats and 1 cup of water in a bowl and warm in the microwave for 1 minute, cool slightly, and apply the mixture to your hands for soothing relief from arthritis pain.

Merry Christmas, Everyone!

2005-12-24T20:16:00.000-08:00

Woody Phillips performs The Twelve Days of Christmas using your favorite hand and power tools. I knew you'd love it!

Okay, back to wrapping I go...
+o)

Media Photoshop Retouching

2005-12-19T20:21:00.000-08:00

Every girl should know this so well that they don't fall for it.

Awesome product!

2005-12-19T19:35:00.000-08:00

Urban Aid: Shame on you kit, Period pal kit, and Oops kit.

Water

2005-12-17T00:22:00.000-08:00

I've begun drinking water as my main beverage. The last few days I've had 4-5 8oz glasses per day. I'm working my way towards the recommended 8 glasses, but I can't seem to drink any more than the 4 or 5 I have been. When I tried for more I felt a little too water-logged ,o)

I'm actually amazed that people can drink so much water. I can understand it when you're working out or on a long walk, but if you're not it seems like you're not getting enough variety in what you drink each day.

How to Tell When a Relationship is Over

2005-12-16T01:12:00.000-08:00

HAHAHAHA!

Naming Names

2005-12-03T18:36:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking of getting a web address for the mew shop. Although, I can't seem to think of a great name/web addy for it! So what do you think I should name my new shop? If I pick a name you leave in this journal's comments, you'll receive an original creation by moi! I'll leave the contest open until the end of the year. At 11:59pm December 31, I'll choose the name and notify the winner. Remember, it should be kitty related! +o)

Maybe It's a Good Idea?

2005-11-28T03:15:00.000-08:00

The moment I decide to really give ebay and the craftykitten shop a go I read this horroscope:

Intensity on the work front can take all your attention now, but the financial rewards are potentially great. Don't waste too much energy thinking about all the things that can go wrong. Instead, just jump into the game with a positive attitude. If you believe in your own success, then you are getting closer to reaching it.

Maybe this really is a good idea?! +o)

Mew Shop Opening Soon! Really.

2005-11-27T04:54:00.000-08:00

I did it! I'm going to reopen the mew shop very soon. This time I'm actually going to do it. I know that the previous post stated the same thing (and that was in the summer!), but I am finally getting down to brass tacks. I've got a design set on the way, not to mention items for the shop.

The first few items will be jewelry, mostly metal with beads bracelets. They're all going to be selling for $9.99 and shipping will probably be $2.00 or under. These are great gifts for Christmas so I will be posting them asap! I'm also cleaning out my jewelry box and will be offering some necklaces and rings as well. After that I have plans to make knitting and crochetting needle keepers, scarf hoops that can be hidden inside your jacket (never lose your mits or scarves again!), as well as other crafty goodness.

Keep checking back for more updates!
+o)

Mew Shop Reopening Soon!

2005-11-27T04:33:00.000-08:00

I did it! I'm going to reopen the mew shop very soon. The first few items will be jewelry, bracelets to be exact. They're all going to be selling for $9.99 and shipping will probably be $2.00 or under. These are great gifts for Christmas so I will be posting them asap! +o)

Weather Change

2005-11-26T01:17:00.000-08:00

I've been wondering if I'm lazy or just plain ol' tired lately. All I can think of is napping on the couch. I think it has something to do with the sky being so overcast this past week or so. Dark skies tend to make me want to curl up and sleep. Come to think of it, so does a really hot, sunny day. Hmm... maybe I'm just an all around nappy kind of gal? ,o)

I've been battling pimples lately. So much so, that I had to ask myself if I'm going through a second puberty. My boobies seem to be growing - check. Pimples abound - check. All I want to do is sleep and shirk responsibility - check. Hmmm... I might be on to something!

Ouch!

2005-11-21T00:44:00.000-08:00

It looks like I've got Pleurisy +o( Yuck.

Kitty

2005-11-16T15:04:00.000-08:00

This makes me want a kitty so bad I could scream!

Weird!

2005-11-10T00:28:00.000-08:00

local6.com - News - Dad Accused Of Leaving Child In Dog Chains

I <3 Ebay

2005-11-07T02:04:00.000-08:00

I won an auction for an HP Photosmart photo printer. It was only $28.50 including shipping. Sa-weet! It's an older model, but since I don't have any experience with photo printers I figure it's a good (and cheap!) place to start. The listing said it doesn't come with a manual or software so I hopped over to HP.ca and downloaded everything I'll need. I also priced out ink cartridges and photo paper on ebay. For the two cartridges it'll only be about $20, and the photo paper is even cheaper. I should be good to go in no time!

Another thing I'd like to get via Ebay is the Oral B 9400 Professional Care Triumph electric toothbrush set. In the store it's worth $149, but I've found it on Ebay between $50 and $80. Why might I want that, you ask? I was at the dentist this past week for a cleaning and inspection and found out I have more cavities and filling to repair than I could've ever imagined. I was given an outline of what needed to be done and the cost of such procedures and almost fell over - over $2500! I didn't even ask him if he could do something about my left fang that's squishing into the next tooth over. Eesh! I'm definitely not going to get it all done in one fell swoop. This is going to be a year-long (or more) project. At least I'm getting a free whitening kit because I'm a new patient. The doc said I should whiten my teeth before having all those fillings put in because then he could match the color of the filling to the color of my newly whitened teeth. Sounds like a good plan to me! I came out of there determined to take better care of myself, and my teeth will be the begining. The Oral B Triumph has a countdown clock so I'll know I'm brushing enough, it also tells you when it's time to change the brush head and works in 11 different languages. I wonder if my relationship with the Triumph will end up like the sign that befriended Steve Martin in LA Story?

The Adventures of Lazy Stick-Figure Pete

2005-11-01T20:16:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine from SG created a web comic strip. Enjoy Lazy Pete in all his lazy glory +o)

Dante's Inferno Test - Impurity, Sin, and Damnation

2005-10-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

The Dante's Inferno Test has banished you to the Third Level of Hell!
Here is how you matched up against all the levels:

Level	Score
Purgatory (Repenting Believers)	Very Low
Level 1 - Limbo (Virtuous Non-Believers)	Very Low
Level 2 (Lustful)	Moderate
Level 3 (Gluttonous)	Very High
Level 4 (Prodigal and Avaricious)	High
Level 5 (Wrathful and Gloomy)	Moderate
Level 6 - The City of Dis (Heretics)	Very Low
Level 7 (Violent)	High
Level 8- the Malebolge (Fraudulent, Malicious, Panderers)	High
Level 9 - Cocytus (Treacherous)	Low

Take the Dante Inferno Hell Test

My Cousin, Merle

2005-10-24T01:58:00.000-07:00

Thursday past my cousin got into an industrial accident while at work. Basically, the arm of his jacket got caught on the conveyor belt which pulled him in and towards a machine that flattens whatever goes into it. We received a call at about 9am from his work saying they've put him in an ambulance and we should meet them at the hospital. We spent most of the day there making sure he'll be alright and waiting for tests and xrays, etc... to come back. We found out he cracked his skull near his brainstem which was causing his ears to bleed, and that he had a bruised lung. Other than that and a bunch of scrapes and scratches he's okay. BIG sigh of relief. Now he's just taking it easy and making sure he doesn't bang his head around so the crack in his noggin can heal up.

Happy Halloween!

2005-10-21T21:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!,
originally uploaded by hellkitty.

Hope everyone's Halloween is positively spooktacular!

FREEZING OUT DISASTERS

2005-10-21T01:39:00.000-07:00

In light of Hurricane Katrina, I thought I would write in and let you in on a little tip we use in southern Louisiana. When big storms hit, we often lose electricity, so the stuff in our deep freezes doesn't last as long. But we fill all the space in the freezer with 2-liter bottles and zip-lock freezer bags full of water. Fill the bottles almost full, leaving a little room for expansion. And zip-lock freezer bags filled with water fit in small and oddly shaped areas. Remember, when everything is frozen solid, a full freezer stays cold much longer than one that's half-filled. And when thawed, these containers offer an additional supply of clean drinking water.

Trying

2005-10-19T00:56:00.000-07:00

Things haven't been going well for my cousin since he moved into his new appartment. Not even two weeks there and his girlfriend leaves him. Not -for- another man, oh no, she was already dating this guy before she ended things with my cousin! What a childish woman she is for pulling this high-school crap.

In other news, my Mom joined the local rec center's "water wellness" class to help get her muscle tone back. I'm wanting to take a couple of fitness classes there, too. One of the classes starts at 9:15am which might be difficult for me since I'm more of a night owl/later morning kind of gal. I could take these classes at 7pm, but I find by that time I'm ready for my tv shows and some couch time. I did notice that their "loonie swim" (swim for a dollar) happens every weekday from 3-4:30pm so I might get myself into the habit of going then and when I'm feeling like taking more fitness on adding classes at that time. I just have to find a bathing suit first. Ebay here I come!

I Promise!

2005-10-16T03:37:00.000-07:00

I swear I'll go to bed early tomorrow night. Really!

Free At Last!

2005-10-12T02:35:00.000-07:00

Merle and Chris moved out on Monday. My family and I have been re-adjusting to life on our own since then. It was actually kind of odd to hear the alarm being put on last night.

I was able to get to Renaissance on Tuesday to have my roots touched up. I also had some layers cut in, so now I'm all spunky and ready for fun +o)

Today is all about getting the boxes of donatable stuff out of my room and attacking my closet. So much stuff in there that I don't wear - why have it sit there taking up space, right?

AdCritic: Ordering Pizza in 2010

2005-10-09T10:26:00.000-07:00

Turn your speakers on for a giggle.

FREEZER POP

2005-10-07T02:24:00.000-07:00

To remove melted wax from votive candle holders place the holder in the freezer for several hours. The wax will shrink enough to pop right out.

SQUEAKY CHEAP

2005-10-07T02:19:00.000-07:00

Have buildup from different hair products? Instead of buying those expensive products that rid hair of hairspray and mousse buildup, use baking soda. Simply wet hair and apply a tablespoon of baking soda, massaging thoroughly through hair. Rinse and shampoo as normal. Hair will come out squeaky clean. No more buildup!

New Record for Portishead?

2005-10-05T02:33:00.000-07:00

I was searching for some info and came across this: [P] - A Portishead Fansite which told me that Portishead are working on a new record and that it should be out late '05 or early '06. I'm excited +o)

The Begining

2005-10-01T11:11:00.000-07:00

The weightloss group at SG has got me thinking of better health. And what better excuse to start than the start of a new month? My favorite month, too. I haven't been watching what I eat for a few months now and have been munching a lot of comfort and junky foods to help me deal with certain stresses. Starting today I'm going to try my best to make better food choices and get more cardio - even if it means walking around the block a few times or doing jumping jacks when it's raining. I have a set of hand weights which I'll be making use of as well. Each week I'd like to post my measurements and any weightloss I see.

October 1:
weight: 156 lbs
weight loss: 0 lbs

neck: 13.5"
arms: 12.5"
chest: 40"
waist: 35.5"
just under navel: 38"
hips/crotch: 44.5"
thigh/hip: 43.5"
thigh: 28"
calf: 15"

YaY to new beginings!

A Damp Cold Gets Right In Your Bones

2005-10-01T01:35:00.000-07:00

The west coast has taken a wintery turn. All this rain is making the moderate temp seem colder. I might even turn my electric blanket on tonight.

I've just recently re-activated my SG account. My last journal before re-activating was written on the first of January - I can't believe I've been away so long! Tonight I was perusing the groups there that I'm a member of and I've got to say the Rigor Mortis group is the best! Not to mention the grossest. I saw piles of gory photos. There's a member in there that's in medical school right now and she has great posts about all the weird things she sees and learns about. Whee! Gory is GOOD!

I've bumped myself up from 40mg to 60mg of Paxil and I'm feeling more like myself. I actually have concentration enough to do some more cleaning out. I've already got a box piled with things to donate. More will be happening later on in the day. Earlier this evening I was out with my parents and bought a new pair of jeans (super dark blue) and a pair of dress pants (black with grey and blue pin stripes). I'm hoping Mom can do me a big favor and hem them and the arms of the jacket Dad bought me in August. It's getting cold enough that I'm going to need that jacket next time I hit the coffee shop. It's super warm and faux-fur lined. I'm tempted to wear it to bed tonight. ,o)

MEW.nu :: teal blossoms

2005-09-30T03:22:00.000-07:00

Say hello to Teal Blossoms! I know we're getting into the fall/winter months, but I feel springy and thought the site should, too. I'm also happy that I've changed servers (to ElectricKitten) which gives me SSI posiblities, a bunch of subdomains, customizable error pages (which I have to set up later) and the possibility of using WordPress. Whee!

I'm still bug-fixing, so if you see something let me know. +o)

Insomnia

2005-09-19T03:20:00.000-07:00

Another night of insomnia. A couple of weeks ago it was because I couldn't stop thinking of all the things I needed to fix up. Now that my finances are looked after I have a huge sense of fixing up my environment - finishing cleaning out my room and closet, and getting rid of things that I don't want anymore. So here I sit at 3 in the morning. I'm trying to stay up all night so that I can get my sleeping schedule back to normal. Hopefully I will crash tomorrow night and get back to waking up in the morning and not the afternoon.

Lately I've been wanting to redecorate my life in organization and elegance. I want to become a woman and not just an adult. I also want to live with only the things that mean the most to me. Cleaning out 75% of all that I've collected over the years has been tough, though. Everything has a memory attached, and some are things that people have given me that I think I should keep 'just because.' I'm a little nervous about cleaning out my closet. So much in there that I never wear along side boxes of storage items I haven't even thought of in years.

Once I actually start on my closet I'm going to invest in closet organizers. Put everything in its place. I'm a sweater nut, so I'm definitely going to put in a lot of shelving (preferably the white wire type). I'm also budgeting some money for that loft bed with the desk attachment at ikea. That'll save major space, plus give me a larger desk area so I can have both my computer AND a notebook on the desk at one time. Ahhh money, money, money, plans, plans, plans...

RIP Linda Elisabeth Fergusson

2005-09-16T01:14:00.000-07:00

It was a sad Eastern Star meeting tonight. I found out the lady that was initiated along side me had passed away this past week. Honestly, I was more shocked than anything. This was a woman that had such spirit, and was always busy doing something, be it yoga or dancing, etc...

Funny thing about it all was the monthly raffle draw. We pay a small fee for a year-long raffle draw number and who's number was picked tonight? Linda's. I'm sure she was giggling about that.

The funeral will be held Friday (today) at 2pm. I'm going to go and reflect on the little time we had together.

What a Week!

2005-09-10T01:58:00.000-07:00

I can honestly say I've never had a week like this before. Between the kids from next door hanging out almost continuously because they prefer life at our house rather than their own and my cousin (whom I only heard about once or twice in my life) and his girlfriend/common-law/wife moving here from Ontario and staying at our place because they have no money for a place to live of their own at the moment, I'm amazed I haven't exploded into a million pieces. Don't get me wrong, I like my cousin and his wife, it's just tough to try and look 'normal' when all you want is some time to sort everything out and adjust your meds so you feel like yourself again.

SIDENOTE: I was so excited about getting a prescription for Ativan last week that I forgot to get refill prescriptions for everything else. Ooops. I ended up going in after the long weekend and speaking with my doc about the prescriptions I forgot and how Ativan was working for me. It's great, but it only calms me about 20%. I asked if I should be on a different medication and he said no, that it only means I'm not taking enough Paxil to control the anxiety. So he bumped me up to 40mg, but I'm not feeling much different. I'm pretty sure I'll be up to 80mgs before I feel half decent. We'll see.

Well, I'm sleepy all of a sudden. More tomorrow.

Jason Mraz is coming!

2005-09-05T02:17:00.000-07:00

JASON MRAZ is coming to town November 14. I'm definitely going to be there. Will I be seeing anyone else there?

(There is no smilie as smilie as I am right now)

(Updated to add...) I'm going to book a hotel once I secure tickets. I've seen a queen suite for $97 and a regular queen for $79 so far. Wheee!

More Weird Dreams

2005-09-05T01:09:00.000-07:00

Last night Jude Law was trying to shoot me for cheating on him. Such is life, eh? heh... ,o)

Crazy Tracy

2005-09-05T01:07:00.000-07:00

Tracy of Time for Your Meds fame is one of the best writers I've had the pleasure of reading. Read her and send her lots of love +o)

Odd Horoscope

2005-09-03T01:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, so listen to this... I've been thinking to myself lately, "I must be ovulating like crazy!" since all I can think about is boys and nookie. I'd rather something rediculously intense than just anything, but at this moment I'll take just any too ,o) Well, I signed in to my mail just now and found this for Saturday:

You're in need of something that is rare -- but available. Pinpointing just where you can acquire it will be the hard part.

I have to agree, it sure is rare - or at least it is for me. I haven't caught anyone's eye in such a long time I'm begining to wonder if I ever will ,o)

Joke Time - Good manners

2005-09-01T14:24:00.000-07:00

During class, a teacher trying to teach good manners asks the students, one by one -

"Michael, if you were on a date, having supper with a nice young lady, how would you tell her that you have to go to the bathroom?" she asked.

"Just a minute, I have to go piss."

The teacher replied "That would be rude and impolite!" "What about you John, how would you say it?" "I am sorry, but I really need to go to the bathroom, I'll be right back."

The teacher responded, "That's better, but it's still not very nice to

say the word bathroom at the table."

"And you Peter, are you able to use your intelligence for once and show us your good manners?" "I would say: Darling, may I please be excused for a moment, I have to shake hands with a very dear friend of mine, whom I hope you'll get to meet after supper."

The teacher fainted..

Amazin'

2005-08-31T00:40:00.000-07:00

I took my Ativan today and after I fought the urge to nap, I realized that it takes my anxiety and fear of life away. I haven't felt like this in years. So now I'm thinking that maybe Paxil isn't the most appropriate medication for me? Maybe I need an anti-anxiety rather than an anti-depressant? I have to make an appointment with my doc tomorrow anyway (I forgot to mention I was running low on my prescriptions when I was there getting the Ativan) so when the appointment comes I'm going to have a sit-down with him and hash this all out. Maybe by new years I'll have all this crap sorted out? Cross your fingers for me! +o)

In other news... I watched the bio on Mariah Carrey this evening and now I want to be a diva. I can leave my plans for world domination til after I achieve diva status, right? ,o)

Just Shake Your Head And Laugh

2005-08-29T01:16:00.000-07:00

So I mentioned that I woke up with the flu on the 27th, well that night I woke up at about 3am and had to use the facilities. As I'm walking out of the bathroom my foot clips the door-jam, I hear a snap, my eyes roll back into my head in pain and I try to muffle my yelp. It seems my pinky toe decided not to leave with the rest of my body. It's all bruised up now, poor little thing.

I spent this past day on the couch with my feet up watching vh1 shows. Thankfully, about an hour ago my flu started feeling a bit better so I'm going to hit the sack and hope to wake up feeling even more better.

Sniffle, Sniffle, Rummage

2005-08-27T00:10:00.000-07:00

Look at me! I'm doing the dance of the flu fairies! I can't believe this hit me so quickly - yesterday night I went to bed thinking my throat was a little dry and sore and that I should drink more water to get a good hydration going and today I'm sick. Sucky, but nothing that a little Tylenol won't fix up I'm sure. OOOHH! I should see what the cost of one of those menthol wall socket air thingies is! Anyone else try them?

My parents and I played hookie today and spent some time down in Bellingham. I bought the most cutest photo album at Tuesday Morning - it's Autumn themed! Now I can't wait for the leaves to start turning color so I can click a few pictures +o)

Random Factoid

2005-08-26T10:24:00.000-07:00

Chris Garver is my new celebrity crush. Congratulations, Chris Garver! *clap clap clap*

+o)