mnlove

Yeah Jim is a nice guy; that's why I got his desk

2006-11-17T14:31:00.000-05:00

I can't even bring myself to watch this episode again. Uber sadness.

Grammar Police

2006-05-22T10:49:00.000-05:00

I have always, as long as I have known myself, been a stickler for grammar and its correct usage. When my husband tells someone that he is doing "good" I remind him that you can't "do good" unless you are giving money to the poor. So naturally when I saw this I HAD to post it. I may print it out and post around the office.

Grammar Rules and Other Random Thoughts...
1. Don't use no double negatives.
2. Don't never use no triple negatives.
3. No sentence fragments
Corollary: Complete sentences: important.
4. Avoid cliches like the plague.
ex.#1: She used cliches like there was no tommorrow.
ex.#2: He used cliches like they were going out of style.
5. Always good syntax use.
6. Don't put the emPHAsis on the wrong syLABle.
7. Do'nt mispel wurds.
8. Avoid those run on sentences that just go on and on and on and never stop and they have no ending and you really wish the person would just shut up but no they just continue to babble incessently never stopping and these sentences they just keep going and they last until the end of time if you know what I mean or get my drift or something like that... do you?
9. Don't be terse.
10. Never be redundant and repeat youself and say the same things over and over agian.
11. Never use silly purposeless, useless, ridiculous, bomabastic, pointless adjectives
12. Never contradict yourself always.
13. All generalisations are bad
Corollary: All statements must be specific.
14. Avoid at all costs those abominable, outrageously repellent exaggerations.
Everyone should be a non-conformist.
People who insult others are jerks.
Nobody has a right to his opinion.
15. Don't f***ing curse.
16. Remember to end each sentence with a period
17. Don't use question marks inappropriately?
18. I could be wrong but in all likelihood it probably wouldn't be an all around good idea to use unnecessary qualifiers.
19. You should never use the second person.
20. The passive voice should never be used.
21. Take care that your verb and subject is in agreement.
22. Don't obfuscate your communications with extraneous verbiage.
23. Don't use very good, quite nice, trite adjectives.
24. Keep your ear to the grindstone, your nose to the ground, take the bull by the horns of a dilemma, and stop mixing your metaphors.
25. Don't be vague and stuff like that.
26. Long ago, when everybody will use good grammar, nobody misuses verb tenses.
27. Join clauses good like a conjunction should.
28. When dangling, watch your participles.
29. Make each pronoun agree with their antecedent.
30. Don't use commas, which aren't necessary.
31. Try not ever to split infinitives.
32. Its important that you use your apostrophe's correctly.
33. A preposition is a bad thing to end a sentence with.
34. Down with categorical imperitives.
35. Always be decisive. Well, maybe you shouldn't be decisive...on the other hand, maybe you should be......actually maybe not....
36. Never compromise, or at least not too often.
37. Stop calling me immature or I'll tell on you.
38. Death to intolerance.
39. We will fight to the death for our pacifist aims.
40. Always be sincere, even if you don't mean it.
41. Always be punctilious, puntual, punishing, and pungent, punt on fourth and ten and expunge bad puns from your writing.
42. Never cut off the end of a
43. I really hate it when people complain.
44. Never go of on tangents or lose your train... train... train... I have this great story about this railway trip I took...
45. Never listen to advice.

Pink Party

2006-05-21T11:00:00.001-05:00

I know the pink party has been done before, but when Mackenzie said she wanted a Barbie cake and nothing else for her 5th birthday what choice did I have?

Pictures of the food and very unprofessional cake on Flickr.

Color Quiz

2006-05-16T13:38:00.000-05:00

Mine was actually pretty spot on! Really interesting.

http://mnlove.blogspot.com took the free ColorQuiz.com personality test!

"Over-imaginative and given to fantasy or day-dream..."

Click here to read the rest of the results.

Dwight: A hero kills people - people that wish him harm. A hero is part human, and part supernatural. A hero is born out of a childhood trauma

2006-04-19T07:30:00.000-05:00

You can buy the Dwight Schrute Bobblehead on the NBC site!!!!

(I already ordered one for Gregg, but don't tell!)

Where have you been?!

2006-03-29T09:59:00.000-05:00

Right. I could go on and on about how we had family in town, I work full time, I am trying to raise a toddler, a pet that is not doing so well and depression is currently kicking my butt. This blog is going to have to take a backseat to real life for the time being. It just seems like too much work to deal with everything that needs to be done and then go back and retrace everthing that I have done that might be interesting (here's a hint: not much! we live in Sticksville). We are still planning to move and resumes are being given the final touch. Add moving our whole lives half way across this country to the list of things to do.

I'm just trying to survive and make it through each day. Call it self preservation.

So, until I have something interesting to say or an update I won't be blogging as much. I will still keep up with pictures in Flickr. I will try post about anything major that happens, but I just can't handle another thing that actually is starting to feel like a homework assignment. I've got my degree, I don't want to do that again!

I hope you all are well and I am still reading other blogs and will stay in touch with comments.

Sorry for the lengthy absence

2006-03-03T09:21:00.000-05:00

My sister, two nieces and a great niece are coming into town tonight. Like, late tonight. Their plane lands at 10 pm and it's over an hour to our house. I still have a ton to do at home during my lunch hour and after work. (Thanks honey for really stepping up and helping out!).

I took off all next week to drag them around to all the DC/Maryland/Virginia sites. We're also having a very small birthday party for Grace. I probably won't post much next week, but there should be a lot of pictures.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl

2006-02-22T08:36:00.000-05:00

Grace is 3 years old today. I swear that I was just pregnant last week! Yes, time flies, but I wouldn't want to forget a moment of every stage that she has gone through. The good and the bad. She's becoming her own person and it's fascinating and frustrating. She has been so much fun, and really made me take stock and learn more about myself. Having kids really holds up a mirror. I am really trying to be a better person and really trying to set a good example for her.

My mom brought along a necklace that my sister gave to me. It says "I am 3". She latched onto that thing and has not taken it off. And so it begins. Now she will expect jewelry for every birthday. Thanks mom! :)

Today is definitely her day. She had chocolate kisses before breakfast and neither Daddy or I blinked an eye. I sent along cupcakes with her to school today. Sugar High for the whole class! We're taking her to Chuck E Cheese for dinner where she can run and play until her legs feel like they're going to fall off. Then home for presents and cake! I promise there will be pictures! (I have pictures from Valentine's Day too... but, ya know. Life, she is crazy busy right now.) I'm sure she'll get away with almost anything (but, of course, that all stops at midnight! I'm not raising a brat). I hope she feels special and loved, more than any other day because she is. I wouldn't give up the past 3 years for anything. She is still my baby and I love her more than life itself.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!
Love,
Mama

We should join MENSA...or something

2006-02-10T18:38:00.000-05:00

My niece and I are the same age. We are only three days apart. So, if you're trying to keep track, my mom and my sister were in the hospital at the same time. We have always been pretty close, so I shouldn't have been surprised that we sent each other very similar 30th birthday cards.

Her card to me read:

You know you're getting older when farting no longer makes you laugh...
But laughing makes you fart.

My card to her read:

A Poem for Your Birthday
All About Farts

A fart can be quiet,
A fart can be loud,
Some leave a powerful, poisonous cloud.

A fart can be short,
Or a fart can be long,
Some farts have been to sound just like a song.

A fart can create a most curious medley,
A fart can be harmless,
Or silent, but deadly.

A fart might not smell,
While others are vile,
A fart may pass quickly, or linger a while.

A fart can occur in a number of places,
And leave everyone with strange looks on their faces.

From wide-open prairie,
To small elevators,
A fart will find all of us sooner or later.

But not all farts are bad,
This is simply not true -
We mustn't forget Dear Sweet Old Farts like you!

Cake blast

2006-02-09T14:30:00.000-05:00

This picture made me thinking "What a waste of perfectly good cake!"

That reminded me of when my neice and I were toddlers. My mom used to work at a bakery and would bring home day old cakes. We have home movies of my neice and I standing/sitting/walking/eating/throwing cake ALL over the damn place. I don't remember it of course, but I bet it was fun!

Oh, no she di'int

2006-02-08T14:07:00.000-05:00

Someone needs to take away this f-ing hillbilly's kid before he actually does get hurt. I have SO much to save about Britney. I was starting to feel a little bad for her with the white trash slacker husband, to the media never letting up on her. But now? I have no sympathy. This is only going to make the paprazzi hound her more. Good going. I have been a mother for almost 3 years and never once in that time have I even accidentally not buckled the kid in. Also, sterilization sounds like an excellent idea in this case.

30

2006-02-07T12:45:00.000-05:00

Well, I didn't wake up stiff and sore or grumbling about noisy neighbors and not getting enough fiber so I guess I don't really feel any different. Other than having to go to work it was a pretty good day I guess. It would have been nicer if I didn't have to bribe the husband to take the kid to daycare. Maybe I was being selfish, but I wanted to sleep in on my birthday. Especially since it was a Monday morning AND I was turning 30. Shame on me.

He made up for it in the gift area. I'm not usually one to brag about things, other than the kid, but I'll share anyway.

I puffy heart LOVE "The Office" on NBC and he got me a shirt with their logo on it that's pretty funny.

I got a silpat mat.

As well as a passport holder for "Someday".

I have been coveting this print for a while. They have it at a restaurant that we love and I have just always liked it. Probably because it's so close to Grace's middle name: Isabella.

He also got me some bath bombs and bath bars.

I also received (or will receive, when it comes in) a set of red mixing bowls and stand.

As well as some movies and a CD.

I guess it pays to get old. I also learned that it really helps to have a Wish List.

Bad Idea Jeans

2006-02-05T12:05:00.000-05:00

Bad idea: going grocery shopping in the pouring rain.
Worse idea: going grocery shopping the Saturday afternoon before Superbowl Sunday.

Also a bad idea: expecting your husband to get anything done around the house during Superbowl weekend (yes, it consumes the entire weekend now).

Hold Me Close Tiny Dancer

2006-01-30T12:17:00.000-05:00

Overheard this weekend: "Daddy's house is dirty. Our big house is clean". Just stab me right in the heart.

I felt sick most of the weekend and struggled to even get off the couch at all on Sunday. Despite the sickness we took them both to Chuck E. Cheese on Saturday afternoon where we enjoyed an hour-long wait just to get in only to discover that at least 5 games were broken. Hell hath no fury like a toddler scorn for broken games at CEC.

The one moment that made up for all the suck? Lying in bed with Gracie watching Stuart Little 2. I inevitably end up tickling her neck and after a minute she says "That's enough Mommy".

The Office

2006-01-27T08:56:00.000-05:00

Why can't these two kids work it out?! I spent most of this episode just thinking it was OK... until the last two minutes. Jim had spent the whole day looking for Pam and then he learns that she was thinking about him all day too. Sigh.

Of course I had to explain all of this to Gregg. Men.

Shhh... I'm hibernating

2006-01-26T10:59:00.000-05:00

At least it feels that way. We have a certain pattern in our lives and schedule that we follow, if not on purpose then due to habit. Cold, dark mornings are especially cruel. I make the coffee hot and so aromatically dense it could wake the dead. Evening are spent bundled up and playing with Grace and watching TV or playing Scrabble. We are in our cocoon.

We are essentially alone here. We spend almost all our free time (that being, not working time) together. We get on each other's nerves and get bored with each other, but we are all each other has.

Our final months here are going to be like a holding pattern: we're waiting to land. Until then, I'm hibernating.

Calgon Take Me Away

2006-01-20T09:23:00.000-05:00

It's probably been no secret that I've been depressed since moving here and since as long as I can remember really. I finally went to see someone yesterday. I didn't totally do it for myself. This was mostly because I don't want the way I feel to affect my daughter and if there was a possible solution that would benefit both her and myself along with my marriage why would I NOT do it, right? It was embarrassing just calling to make an appointment. I don't know why I felt that way. He explained that even if there is a chemical imbalance to blame for the depression, having dealt with it for so long I have learned on how to work around it and how I have been repeating behaviors that aren't successful. This is called neurosis. Not psychosis, thank goodness. Good news, I'm not totally nuts. Even better news, I might actually get better.

I did leave feeling better about things and actually hopeful. My doctor has a plan in motion and helped me to actually talk about some things. It was mostly just an introduction regarding the people in my life. Gregg might join me in a few weeks and that can only help too. Cause he's supportive and cool like that.

Japan Bans American Beef... AGAIN

2006-01-20T09:19:00.000-05:00

This just gives me SO little hope in our government regarding the food we eat. Just when I was halfway thinking about having a burger, Japanese importers find a spine mixed in with our beef. This is only one month after we were allowed to start importing beef again to Japan after a two year ban. So my personal ban continues as well.

Minneapolis is the most fun city!

2006-01-18T12:01:00.000-05:00

I totally agree.

As if I needed another reason to move back.

Virginia doesn't get any kind of love, with Norfolk ending up at number 31!!! We aren't even anywhere near Norfolk.

Johnny Cupcake

2006-01-18T10:04:00.000-05:00

Because I support independent shops, designers and cupcakes (heh) I'm passing this on. Urban Outfitters ripped off a design that Johnny Cupcake had out two years ago. They changed the color and the type of plane, but it is clear as day what they are doing. Now they don't have to pay for the design and they are a big company with big lawyers to back them up. Also, if you have not seen Johnny Cupcake designs, adorable.

I would so LOVE to have a cupperwear party!

4 Things

2006-01-16T15:35:00.000-05:00

Four jobs I've had in my life: Um... a Secretary, Admin. Assistant, an Executive Assistant and a Project Assistant. Oh sure, they all sound different, but they are all, in fact, hell on earth.
Four movies I could watch over and over: Fever Pitch, Finding Neverland, Wedding Singer, Dirty Dancing. Wedding Singer is my movie I watch when I'm depressed about my own life. When I was laid off I watched it a minimum of twice a week.
Four places I've lived: Minnesota, Virginia, Grand Cayman (for a week anyway ;)
Four TV shows I love to watch: The Office (I'm obsessed with it), Lost, CSI, Wheel of Fortune (because I ALWAYS beat Gregg)
Four places I've been on vacation: Seattle, Mexico, Grand Cayman, Las Vegas
Four websites I visit daily: ljcfyi.com, amalah.com, everydaystranger.mu.nu, drudgereport.com
Four of my favorite foods: Caribou coffee, chocolate, sun dried tomatoes (I know they are passe, but I still love them), capers
Four places I'd rather be: sleeping, playing with my daughter, a movie theater, a gym
Four albums I can't live without: Under the Table & Dreaming, Fumbling Towards Ecstacy, and.... I'm going to have to think on this one for a while. I like a lot of songs, but there aren't many albums that all the songs are good.

Ten Thoughts to Ponder in 2006

2006-01-12T14:00:00.000-05:00

10. Life is sexually transmitted.

9. Good health is merely the slowest possible rate at which one can die.

8. Men have two emotions: Hungry and Horny. If you see me without an erection, please make me a sandwich.

7. Give a person a fish and you feed them for a day; teach a person to use the Internet and they won't bother you for weeks.

6. Some people are like a Slinky.....not really good for anything, but you still can't help but smile when you shove them down the stairs.

5. Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing.

4. All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to criticism.

3. Why does a slight tax increase cost you two hundred dollars and a substantial tax cut saves you thirty cents?

2. In the 60s, people took acid to make the world weird. Now The world is weird and People take Prozac to make it normal.

AND THE NUMBER 1 THOUGHT FOR 2006:

We know exactly where one cow with Mad-cow-disease is located among the millions and millions of cows in America but we haven't got a clue as to where thousands of Illegal immigrants and terrorists are located.

Maybe we should put the Department of Agriculture in charge of immigration.

Birthdays

2006-01-12T12:41:00.000-05:00

February is getting to be one of the busier months for birthdays. In that short month we have mine, Grace's, my mother-in-law's, my friend Kim's and two of my nieces.

I'm still up in the air for plans for Grace's birthday. Since there will be no family in town for it I'm tempted to just buy her some toys and go out to dinner. I think if we do have a party for her it will be Toy Story* and we'll wait until some family members come to visit in March. Another big one that I'm trying not to think about too much, but I have to because my niece's is 3 days later, is my 30th. I guess it's a big deal and I would be bummed if it just got skimmed over, but part of me thinks that would be OK too!

*Why in the world do Disney, et.al. put a movie in "The Vault" only to release it several years later to new, younger viewers and not release a whole new batch of merchandise to go along with it? I would love to be able to buy the plates, balloons, along with all of the toys in Toy Story. No such luck. Another reason Disney sucks. Yeah, I said it!

Oil of Olay Winter Retreat

2006-01-10T08:24:00.000-05:00

No need to thank me. But you will want to.

I'm not very good about putting lotion on in the morning after a shower, but with this body wash I really don't need to.

If you can find this, buy two bottles. Trust me. It helped even my super dry hands. I cannot find a picture of the bottle anywhere online, but it has a blue cap. I bought mine at Target (of course).

Here is the description:

Olay Complete Winter Retreat Body Wash - 12 OZ

MANUFACTURER: PROCTER & GAMBLE CONSUMER.
INDICATIONS: Olay Complete Body Wash nourishes skin completely with a soap-free cleansing formula for gentle cleansing and a clean rinse that keeps in moisture without leaving heavy residue and moisturizing with nourishing vitamin E, A & B3 enriched Olay moisturizers that penetrate deep within the surface for skin conditioning. In the shower: Squeeze a small amount of product onto wet puff. Lather and rinse. Store bottle upside down to ease dispensing.

This too shall pass

2006-01-10T08:17:00.000-05:00

Today has started out much better. No tearful goodbyes at daycare, no big fights over getting dressed. I just hate leaving her and when she puts up such a fight it makes it that much harder. I know all working mothers go through this. The truth is, they are teaching her things that, if I was home with her, I wouldn't have the time, the patience or the creativity to do. Also, she's learning social skills and how to get along with her peers. Since she is essentially an only child still, that is very important to learn.

Gregg and I talked and I feel better about us moving. If he gets a job sooner rather than later we will move up sooner. If not, we'll stay put. He would like to be here for Mackenzie's 5th birthday May 1, but if not, he'll fly back to see her.

We're also thinking twice about moving right near my mom. That area seems to be having a problem with too many drugs and a little too ghetto. Now that they have decided to definitely (???) build the stadium there too, well... that also makes us want to look further down the road.

So things are still up in the air. A lot of things. But I can't really control any of it. What's that saying? Let go and let God. Easier said than done.

I'm about to lose it

2006-01-09T09:34:00.000-05:00

I just cannot keep my shit together today. Grace did not want to daycare. She just clung to me and didn't want to stay/didn't want me to leave. One of her teachers brought her to the window and watched me leave as she's just bawling. I can NOT take it anymore. I have got to quit my job. I snapped at Mackenzie this weekend because she wouldn't stop playing and come eat lunch. I started crying last night because it just seems like everyone has their shit together. Our neighbors, Sean and Heather, just bought a house and will be moving next month. I already feel so alone here and now they're leaving too. I'm being a bit dramatic, they are still in town.

I so badly want to quit my job and stay at home with Grace. If I do that I don't know if that will affect us being qualified to buy a house up in MN. Daycare already eats up 1/2 of my take home pay. I have said it before and I'll say it again: I busted my ass and got a college degree so I could be someone ELSE'S secretary? WTF?! I just can't hold out any longer. Ugh!!!

Happy freaking Monday!

Dear Fat Man

2005-12-07T15:55:00.000-05:00

Sorry for going MIA lately. Have been busy buying a car/getting haircuts/decorating/considering Christmas cards/not baking/freaking out about Christmas projects NOT getting done (which are now out of my hands). Whew. In the mean time, create your own adult letter to Santa. heheheee

http://www.chickenhead.com/stuff/santa/index.asp

Here's mine:

Dear Obese Trespassing Altruist,

This year, I have been a very passive aggressive little girl. I have not embezzeled, and I have always helped my mommy’s “special friend” with their pyramid schemes. And I always say thank you, which makes me seem like I care, and so I deserve lots of blank checks this year!

Please bring all this stuff for me and the people in my life: For my mommy, please bring Valium. For my daddy, please bring a new money clip. For my big sister, please bring a diaphragm. For my ferret*, please bring a cableknit sweater. Oh – and for my pool boy, please bring some work ethic.

Now about me! Please bring me all of the Spongebob Squarepants pajamas, and front row tickets to Mary-Kate and Ashley – plus backstage passes so I can get coked up! Oh, and please don’t forget to bring my jet-ski. But if you can’t, just remember that more than anything Santa, what I really really want is just $100,000,000!**

Anyway, I hope you like the eight-ball I left out for you.

Love,

Kim

PS: Please say hello to the baby Jesus.

PPS: Oh yeah, and remember Gregg? He has been a really naughty cry-baby all year long and doesn’t deserve any Christmas presents. So please don’t forget to put ebola in their stocking. Thanks!

* Yes, I really do have a ferret. That is probably the only part of this letter that is true.
** Also true.

Over the river and through the woods

2005-11-22T14:10:00.000-05:00

Literally. Except the bridge we are on for a long time goes over the ocean. We are headed down to the Outer Banks after work today. And after Gregg packs. Grrrr... Remind you of anyone?

We're staying at Allan and Brian's house that is right on the beach. This house is just for family and friends. Must be nice, huh? They're not renting out this house at all. We haven't seen them all in so long I'm afraid the girls might forget! Although Grace was "talking" to Uncle Allan on my phone the other night. She knows what's up.

In other news we have sold the Jeep. Some guy in Wisconsin bought it. Small world. He wanted to drive out and pick it up this Saturday. I can understand that it's a holiday week and he might not have to take off work, but sorry, we had plans. Gregg's mom would pretty much disown us if we didn't show up at this point! So we will be looking for a new SUV I guess while we are down there. The dealerships are so much cheaper down in the Hampton and Norfolk areas. So that's where we'll be buying from! Right now it looks like either a Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander will be our next vehicle. I wanted the Hybrid Highlander, but what we've been hearing from some friends who just traded in their Hybrid Honda they are a lot of hassle. My boss has a Prius and it is always in for a check up of service of some sort. Even if that is covered under a warranty that is a lot of bother.

Gregg's birthday is Friday so we have that to look forward to also. Maybe we can even sneak away for a movie!

Have a great Thanksgiving everybody! I know that I have a lot to be thankful for this year.

My "baby" is gone

2005-11-17T08:17:00.000-05:00

Yes, she is almost 3 and seeing her next to Sean and Heather's newborn has deeply impacted my image of her as my "baby". There is no denying the fact that Grace is becoming a little girl and bypassing "Toddler". She says "excuse me" even to the cat when he is blocking the door and she wants to go outside. If she sees scissors or a knife she knows that "these are owie". She can load movies into the laptop on her own. She simply cannot leave the house without her purse.

When I take her to daycare in the morning I usually stay with her to wash her hands and wait for her to sit down and eat breakfast. And then sneak out. Yesterday she saw me leave. She was looking right at me and said "Bye, Mom". So adjusted. So mature. So not my little baby anymore.

2005-11-15T08:24:00.000-05:00

As if I really needed another reason to love John Cusack... :)

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-cusack/on-bush-the-dems-jon-st_b_10485.html

Four years of wedded bliss

2005-11-08T10:59:00.000-05:00

Our anniversary was Saturday. The day started out with me grocery shopping. I had to take Grace because she wasn't ready when Gregg left to get Mackenzie. Yes, two toddlers. Romantic. It gets better.

Gregg was supposed to meet me and take Grace after he picked up Mackenzie. Well, of course her mother was late. So I was basically done when they showed up. Grace was getting antsy and I can't blame her. You must be half insane to go grocery shopping on a Saturday morning. She didn't want to ride in the little car in the front of the grocery cart and she would wander off when she got out. So I made her sit in the cart. This brought on a full force tantrum like I have never seen. She slapped me across the face. My sweet, bright daughter whom I lovingly carried for 9 months slapped me. Hard. I was sure my cheek was red. (Gregg said it wasn't). Right there in the frozen food aisle we had a Come to Jesus meeting. She is not to slap anyone. Ever. The Scooby Doo plates she had picked out earlier were held hostage until she listened. Gregg showed up to find a screaming and crying two year old. There goes Mother of the Year.

After lunch and a nap (bribery DOES work) we took them to see Chicken Little and they both actually WATCHED it. (Note to Disney: WHY in the name of all that is good and right in the world do you insist on killing off one of the parents? WHY?!)

After the movie was our time. We got crab legs and I made Red Lobster biscuits. Recipe follows. The girls pretty much played in Mackenzie's room. I'm not going to say we ignored them. They have fun playing by themselves. I had ordered a cake and we also had champage. Our big plans of getting away will have to wait. We have a downpayment on a house to worry about. Sure, Grace may be out of high school by then, but we will get there.

I will put up pictures as soon as I have Gregg show me how. Then I won't have to wait for him to do it anymore :)

Red Lobster Biscuits

These could not be any easier.

Get a box of Bisquick. Follow the directions on the box for biscuits. Add 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese to the mixture. Put them on a cookie sheet and top with a mixture of melted butter, garlic powder and parsley. Bake according to directions on the box.

Messing with your mind

2005-11-01T11:13:00.000-05:00

http://www.patmedia.net/marklevinson/cool/cool_illusion.html

This might not work if you are colorblind?

So weird!

A Friday Funny

2005-10-28T11:28:00.000-05:00

I had to be "reminded" of the rules today! For the gazillionth god damn time.. Yes Kim. He WILL color copy the friggin cookbooks! And don't ask again!

Other rules. According to men:

The Guys' Rules

At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down finally, the guys' side of the story.

(I must admit, it's pretty good.)

We always hear "the rules" from the female side. Now here are the rules from the male side. These are our rules!

Please note... these are all numbered "1" ON PURPOSE!

1. Men ARE not mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail or cheating.

1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one:

a. Subtle hints do not work!

b. Strong hints do not work!

c. Obvious hints do not work!

d. Just say it!

1. “Yes” and “No” are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a problem. See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you won't dress like the Victoria's Secret girls, don't expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.

1. You can either ask us to do something, or tell us how you want it done, but not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials..

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not color! Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it WILL be scratched. We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," we will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine...No Really.

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight. But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

This just burns my ass

2005-10-28T11:00:00.000-05:00

"Exxon Mobil, the world's largest oil company, said yesterday that its third-quarter net income jumped 75 percent, to $9.92 billion. Its profit in the first nine months of this year - $25.42 billion - already equals its full-year earnings for 2004. This year's sales, which topped $100 billion in the last quarter, are expected to exceed those of Wal-Mart."

Well... I'm so glad that the fat cats (and Bushy's buddies) are getting even richer! Meanwhile no one is saying that they are lowering the price of gas that I need to get to work!

But,

"Today, Republicans and Democrats alike, aware of the politically sensitive issue of high energy prices, are putting increasing pressure on the oil and gas industry to return some of its profits. The ideas include forcing the industry to invest in more refining capacity, to increase inventories to cushion energy shocks, or to provide money directly to the government program that helps low-income people pay heating bills."

Finally. Someone investigate them already! They should be giving free gas away for a month!

I like the idea of giving money to help low-income people pay for heat this winter. But they don't say that they will lower the price at all! They're all going to burn in hell.

Seriously

2005-10-24T15:58:00.000-05:00

OK, I was behind her when she wanted to meet with Bush. I can not imagine a mother losing a child. But all I can say to this is "Good luck lady!" She will never be allowed to do this.

Oct 23, 2005 — By Deborah Zabarenko

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Cindy Sheehan, the military mother who made her son's death in Iraq a rallying point for the anti-war movement, plans to tie herself to the White House fence to protest the milestone of 2,000 U.S. military deaths in Iraq.

"I'm going to go to Washington, D.C. and I'm going to give a speech at the White House, and after I do, I'm going to tie myself to the fence and refuse to leave until they agree to bring our troops home," Sheehan said in a telephone interview last week as the milestone approached.

So it's not Poweball or anything

2005-10-24T10:15:00.000-05:00

But I did win $175 from our local radio station! They have a promotion that if you listen at work and they call your name you get $25 each hour until they get a new winner. I won at noon on Friday. No one else called in until 11 am today!

At first I was all "I am not calling and having my voice on the radio". So embarrassing. Then I thought about it for... mmm... 20 seconds. Shit, I'll take anyone's money!

So Christmas came early in the Rodgers household! ;)

Speaking of which, we got the girls' Christmas pictures taken yesterday. Yeah. And we weren't even the first ones to have them done! They should be online as soon as I can figure out how to do it.

Mad Cow

2005-10-18T08:57:00.000-05:00

Sure Idaho is all the way across and the other side of the country, but I think this shows how little control has been in place and how we don't really know what we are eating. Vanity Fair had an article about a year ago that scared the shit out of me. This is why I'm serious about Grace not eating beef. And when I see on her report from the end of the day that she had beef ravioli for lunch... and then had seconds... (despite the fact that I have a note from her doctor saying that she cannot eat beef) they are going to be deailing with their own mad cow!

Officials Investigating Brain-Wasting Disease Cases in Idaho
Monday, October 17, 2005

BOISE, Idaho — From the moment Joan Kingsford first saw her husband stagger in his welding shop, she wanted two things: His recovery and to know what made him sick.

She got neither. Alvin Kingsford, 72, died recently of suspected sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, the fatal brain-wasting illness. The disease can be conclusively diagnosed only with an autopsy, which did not take place.

State and federal health officials are trying to get to the bottom of nine reported cases of suspected sporadic CJD in Idaho this year. Sporadic, or naturally occurring, CJD differs from the permutation dubbed variant CJD, which is caused by eating mad-cow -tainted beef and has killed at least 180 people in the United Kingdom and continental Europe since the 1990s.

"One thing is very clear in Idaho — the number seems to be higher than the number reported in previous years," said Dr. Ermias Belay, a CJD expert with the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "So far, the investigations have not found any evidence of any exposure that might be common among the cases."

Normally, sporadic CJD only strikes about one person in a million each year, with an average of just 300 cases per year in the United States, or just over one case a year in Idaho. Over the past two decades, the most cases reported in Idaho in a single year has been three.

Until this year.

Of the nine suspected cases reported so far in 2005, three tested positive for an infectious disease of the nervous system, though more tests are pending to determine if the fatal illness was in fact sporadic CJD. Four apparent victims were buried without autopsies. Two suspected cases tested negative.

Still, federal and state health officials are stopping just short of calling the Idaho cases a "cluster," waiting for final test results from the victims who got autopsies.

The best tool of investigators to pin down the diagnosis — the autopsy — is sometimes hard to get, said Tom Shanahan with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

Pathologists are often reluctant to perform the procedures, the cost of an autopsy can be high and some families are reluctant to give their consent, officials say.

Joan Kingsford wanted an autopsy done on her husband, but no mortician in the area would agree to handle Alvin's body after his brain cavity had been opened. They feared they would catch the rare disease, Kingsford said.

Ultimately, she opted to skip the autopsy and have a traditional funeral service.

"A week before he passed away, the funeral homes said they wouldn't take the blood out" if an autopsy was done on him, she said. "They just put some embalming in him and told me I had to have a funeral in three days."

CJD is transmitted through a malformed prion found primarily in the brain and spinal fluid of those infected, Belay said. Standard sterilization procedures don't eliminate the risk of infection; instead equipment must be soaked in a chemical solution for more than an hour and then heated, according to the World Health Organization.

Mortuary procedures — including embalming — can be done safely on intact bodies of CJD victims as long as extra precautions are taken, but the World Health Organization does not recommend embalming patients who have had autopsies.

Larry Whitaker, a Beaverton, Ore.-based regional salesman for the embalming chemical and equipment manufacturer Dodge Company, offers workshops to his clients on safe handling of CJD-infected bodies.

"When the brain has been removed, it is an extraordinary risk," Whitaker said. "This is one time I think that cremation has to be more than mildly considered."

A member of the Mormon Church, Joan Kingsford's church discourages cremation. She was thrown into making a decision about her husband's remains much sooner than she expected.

"It was two and a half months before we knew what was wrong with him, and by that time he was in the hospital," she said. "I wish we could have done the autopsy, because I think people need to know about this."

"We definitely have a problem in Idaho," she added.

Who knew Titanic was a horror film?

2005-10-11T10:33:00.000-05:00

I think it's really interesting the way they have editing the preview for Titanic to make it look like a horror film. Apparently someone has also done this with The Shining, to make it look like a romantic comedy. Too funny!

Holy Schnikes!

2005-10-05T15:59:00.000-05:00

I guess the "Save Katie" campaign didn't work.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20051005/en_nm/cruise_dc

Madame Alexander at Mickey Ds!

2005-10-05T11:00:00.000-05:00

I just went to the doctor for my annual check up. Yuck. Anyway, I had to go during my lunch hour so I hit McDonald's on the way back to the office. They have the miniature Madame Alexander dolls again! I got #5 Hop Skip and Jump (she came with a jumprope) and #6 a ballerina. SO so so cute. They are like $1 or so each if you're thinking about collecting them. I got most of the dolls the last time they were out. I know I should keep them in the plastic, but Grace really does love playing with them.

http://www.mcdonalds.com/usa/ronald/happy.html

I am SO Target's Bitch

2005-10-05T08:44:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows me knows that Target owns me. I might as well sign my paycheck over. When Gregg and I started dating I took him to the first.Target.ever. He has only mildly caught the bug.

Good to know that I am not alone.

http://slavetotarget.blogspot.com

Let's see how many posts and I can start with ellipsis...

2005-10-04T13:37:00.000-05:00

FYI...I am having a book party for Henn. Yeah half price stuff!

Here are the monthly deals. I love the leaf bowls.

Juggling...

2005-10-04T13:16:00.000-05:00

I feel like I can't do the right thing lately. My daughter is in daycare so I can work. I'm working so that she can go to daycare and learn social skills, have a schedule and be ready for school. This has been on my mind and weighing heavily on my heart since I had to go back to work. Am I doing the right thing by having her in daycare? Yes, I have a job that I hate and the work I'm doing is not satisfying at all. (Hello, I went to college to be someone else's secretary?!). Being able to quit would be a bonus.

I was at home for her first 7 months and I loved it. If I was home with her she would still learn her colors and numbers and be learning about the seasons, etc. I would also be able to sign her up for dance lessons, swimming lessons and other things that are offered during the day to continue her social development.

There would be enough money for all our bill plus some left over. Not a lot for savings or buying a home. Although I'm not sure right now is a good time to be buying anyway. No thank you housing bubble!

I think the part I'm struggling with is the thought of just yanking her out of daycare. For no apparent reason? Or is there? If she hates going in the morning, and I have no reason to believe that continues throughout the day, why continue to torture her? If I concede and let her stay home am I giving in? If she was a baby I don't think this would be such a tough decision. Stay home. Easy. Done. But, when she is almost 3 why does that seem almost like a bad idea? Is it ever a bad idea to stay home with them? 3 is kind of the magic number around here. That's the age that she can take a lot of the classes through our city's rec. dept.

Most importantly, I want to do the right thing for Grace.

Today is the day...

2005-10-03T13:37:00.000-05:00

I am recommitting to Weight Watchers. I will be writing down every little thing I eat and exercizing more. Not on here though. See the boring details I shelter you from Internet?

I normally eat VERY healthy, but I just don't have a shut off switch. I don't understand portions. I was hoping to hit goal by my birthday but I'll be happy to hit goal period!

I'm sending this out to all the Internet to keep myself honest and to have some damn accountability. Today is the fattest I will ever be. No more quitting if I have a bad day. That elliptical wasn't free and it certainly isn't going to work itself.

Wednesday is the annual doctor visit. I'm going to face the music and ask for help. Something I am normally incapable of. Please send me some skinny and brave vibes.

In keeping with the theme, check out the 10 foods you should never eat. (link at top)

Bartender...

2005-09-30T15:39:00.000-05:00

Now here is an invention I can get behind!!!!

This happens to be one of my biggest pet peeves. I have to stop eating if my drink is empty. I get that annoyed. And then you want a tip*?! Ha!

*We're actually really good tippers. We may be a pain in the a$$, but we'll make it worth your while.

Pleasant epidural thoughts...

2005-09-30T08:39:00.000-05:00

and sweet baby kisses for Amalah today.

Dr. Phil

2005-09-29T11:03:00.000-05:00

Make sure to watch Dr. Phil tomorrow (the 30th). My hairstylist, Amy, will be on as well as all the other girls from the salon. The only info. I have been able to get out of her is that it's about standing up for yourself. Amy is loud and fun, so I can't imagine she has much of a problem with that!

I get a cut today so I can't wait to get the scoop!

Dr. Jekyll and Ms. Gracie

2005-09-27T07:30:00.000-05:00

Raising a toddler can be a challenge, to say the least. Grace has moments when she can be the sweetest girl you have ever met. Gregg has a cold so he has been coughing and sneezing a lot. After each time he sneezed, Grace, without even looking up from what she was playing with in the back seat piped up with "Bless you". It was so sweet and so cute I wanna kill myself. Apparently she is in training to become a nurse. When Gregg fell asleep on the couch this weekend she found a cough drop and was trying to shove it into his mouth while he was sleeping. Well, she had good intentions!

Then there is the independent "I do it myself", "No, I don't want any help" side of raising a toddler. Hey, I'm all for allowing her to try things on her own and figure out everyday things. One of my biggest goals as her parent is to allow her to become self-reliant. It is just frustrating that everything has to be a battle. I'm not your enemy. Believe it or not, I'm trying to help you.

I am constantly amazed at the things that she picks up. We're always asking ourselves "Where did she get THAT from?". I was chewing out Gregg for something under my breath (he wasn't even around). Sure enough later that day she is telling daddy that he is in trouble. Oops.

Vikings

2005-09-26T07:17:00.000-05:00

Finally. Thank goodness.

We watched Fever Pitch this weekend. Twice.

I asked Gregg if there was a football team that had a story like the Red Sox. Before I was even done asking the question I answered myself. The Vikings. They'll break your heart.

This movie is really cute. We were walking around all weekend saying our favorite line over and over: " Johnny Damon, you got the sweetest ass in the league!" I love the Boston accent.

New Pictures

2005-09-23T07:17:00.000-05:00

New pictures are up on Flickr of our Minnesota trip and the wedding. All of the pictures I took at the reception were too dark. Note to self: learn how to use your new camera before you take it on a trip.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kimr9476/

Culottes?! Seriously?!

2005-09-22T15:34:00.000-05:00

I thought these went away forever in the mid 80s. Am I missing something here? I'm all for comfort, but how can you NOT have mom ass in these?

Return

2005-09-21T10:16:00.000-05:00

We are back and SO very tired. We survived two flights and layovers with only a case of pink eye and a cracked tooth. Not bad.

Will write more tomorrow.

Oh, the wedding? Fabulous. Saying goodbye? Miserable.

It's Not Always Rainbows and Butterflies

2005-09-12T11:19:00.000-05:00

Looking back on the past four years is bittersweet. If I had not moved here I would not have Grace. Because I made the big leap I have a whole other family that I love and that loves me. For these things I am truly grateful.

The "bitter" part of bittersweet is harder to deal with and leaves a deeper sadness with every passing day. Grace is growing up without any family even in the same state. There are no drop in visits, no trips to the park with her cousins. No birthday parties to scrapbook that "her whole family was there and you made everyone laugh".

Bridal magazines should come with a warning: "results not typical". I am amazed at how women who have been married for 10-20 years have managed not to kill their husbands. Despite the messiness and occasional fight over dirty socks on the floor, and toothpaste on the bathroom mirror I am pretty lucky and having Grace made me love him even more.

In three years we are moving back. In my mind I am already there. I envision Grace going to school in the same district that I did, I see her at the Science Museum when she is older taking it all in, Como Zoo, The Children's Museum and playing in all the lakes. The first thing I see is us with our family at the weekly picnics, Thanksgiving and all the other things that we have missed out on.

Even only spending days at a time in Minnesota, I have a toddler who spouts out "boat" just like her family up north. Apparently I am doing something right.

Grace's Dress

2005-09-09T08:35:00.000-05:00

This is what Grace will be wearing to the Big Fat Minnesota Wedding.

Maybe if I Ignore Them They Will Go Away

2005-09-08T08:32:00.000-05:00

Bush is ignoring the victims of Hurricane Katrina just as he ignored Cindy Sheehan and just as he is ignoring the American citizens. His job at a time like this, no his responsiblity, is to guide us, or at least make us believe that he is leading this country in the right direction. Be an inspiration and make us believe that help is on the way and all that can be done is getting done. I'm sorry, but flying over the area that was destroyed doesn't show a lot of concern.

According to JFK: "First, the President's responsibility cannot be delegated. For he is the one focal point of responsibility. His office is the single channel through which there flow the torrential pressures and needs of every state, every federal agency, every friend and foe.

He does not have to wait for unanimous agreement below.... He does not have to wait for crises to spur decisions that are long overdue. He must look ahead-and sometimes act alone...

...the President's responsibility is to all the people. He must strengthen them-and draw strength from them; educate them-and represent them; pledge his best-and inspire theirs.... if he constantly reassures an imperiled nation that all is well, if he answers all critics with an air of infallibility, or, worst of all, if he himself is not informed and therefore cannot inform the people-then the Presidency has failed the American people."

His lack of empathy is astounding. I guess he learned from the best:

The former first lady (Barbara Bush), after touring the Astrodome complex in Houston on Monday, said: ''What I'm hearing, which is sort of scary, is they all want to stay in Texas. Everyone is so overwhelmed by the hospitality. And so many of the people in the arena here, you know, were underprivileged anyway, so this is working very well for them.''

Open mouth, insert silver foot.

Work

2005-09-07T14:45:00.000-05:00

Dear self-important boss who thinks his $hit don't stink*:

"Irregardless" is not a word. Look it up.

I'm just sayin'.

*Yes, I know that is bad grammar. Do not question my knowledge of grammar or syntax. That is all.

Daycare Dropoff Drama

2005-09-07T08:48:00.000-05:00

Being that I am a morning person and Gregg stays up late he is the one who puts Grace to bed while I am the one who gets her up and ready and drops her off at daycare. For the past few weeks Grace has just CLUNG to me when it's time to say good bye at daycare. She knows it's coming and the lagging and whining starts from the time I bring her downstairs until it's time to walk into the classroom. Getting dressed takes a good 15 minutes, getting out the door at home is work and then getting her into the actual classroom is like pulling teeth. She did so well for so long that I just don't know where this all is coming from.

This morning her teacher asked what was going on and I really didn't have an answer. She said that even after I leave and Grace finishes breakfast her teacher will ask if she is done and Grace doesn't answer, she just glares at her. Great, I'm raising a sociopath.

Just dropping her off in the room and walking out doesn't work either. The theory of just let them "cry it out" or "quick and painful, like a bandaid" hasn't helped. From the way it sounds she is mopey all morning. I know she needs more sleep for one. Any suggestions?

FEMA

2005-09-02T09:21:00.000-05:00

De-lurking to de-bunk some myths on WHY IS IT TAKING SO LONG FOR FEMA TO HELP?!

Well... My husband works for FEMA and I used to work in Procurement (the Dept. that ships out all supplies). It was not that FEMA had not prepared (as Tim Russert so stupidly said). They have water, food, cots, medical supplies, computers, etc. trailers FULL of supplies ready to ship where and when it is needed. They have a HUGE warehouse FULL of supplies packaged ready to go. Keep in mind that FEMA only has 2,500 full time employees. They do not deploy until after the storm has passed or until the area is safe. So if our workers are being shot at, etc. they are not going to go in! THink about it. What good are dead rescue workers to anyone? FEMA does not have helicopters to deliver supplies. They are relying on the Marines and National Guard to clear way for them to get in.

You’ve been hearing that the affected area of Hurricane Katrina is approximately 100,000 square miles... here’s some perspective:

The Great Lakes have a combined area of 94,230 square miles - larger than the states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Vermont combined.

So please lay off of FEMA. They can only do what they can with the resources they have. They are ready to go but will not put themselves into danger to do it!

Cake Fun

2005-06-08T13:41:00.000-05:00

Sexy, always ready to give and receive. Very creative, adventurous, ambitious and passionate. You have a cold exterior but are warm on the inside. Not afraid to take chances. Will not settle for anything average in life. The Cakes Quiz

2005-04-01T14:40:00.000-05:00

This is just about the smartest thing I've ever seen...If your kid's drawer is filled with lonely socks looking for their "sole" mate, you know how easy it is for children to lose a sock here and there, or to have one stolen by the thieving washing machine. With this pair, though, when one sock is lost, another one steps right in to take its place. Just as colorful and soft as its predecessor, it's a splendid understudy, ready to work with its partner to keep your kid's feet warm as can be. And while your child is on their way to losing that first sock, this understudy rather enjoys a starring role as a hand puppet. Knit and hand finished in Vermont.
$18.00

MATERIALS: cotton
SIZE: ages 3-5

Thursday Update

2005-03-31T14:36:00.000-05:00

I just talked to Gregg during lunch. Mackenzie is getting sprung from PICU today! :)

Gregg stayed with her last night until 4 am. He said that she is doing a LOT better. She was watching movies this morning and making silly faces. He said though, that she is having a hard time annunciating her words.

On our end, I think Grace is getting sick of me. She has been good, but a little whiny and clingy. She wants to be held a LOT. I'm sure she doesn't understand why daddy isn't there and Grandma is all of a sudden gone.

More Updates

2005-03-30T12:20:00.000-05:00

Gregg just talked to the surgeon who worked on Mackenzie. He explained to Gregg how he did the surgery, what happened and the cat scans. She had an epidural hematoma. Click on the title "More Updates" to a link of an animation. She did have a break in her skull which cut an artery. That is why she had to have the surgery. The doctor just removed the drainage tube now. Gregg said the "before" cat scans were so bad. He could see it progressively getting worse. The surgeon told him that she was within 30 minutes of dying.

Also, we were told previously that the part of the brain affected motor skills and the surgeon said that was NOT the case. The part that she injured affects speech. Gregg has gotten her to say a few words and tried to get her to stick out her tongue, but she couldn't. She wants to watch movies and shakes and nods her head. He said she seems frustrated that she can't talk.

The surgeon said that he will be the one doing the follow up with her. Gregg asked about transferring her up closer to home and he said that he understood, but he would prefer to do all of the follow up with her. So we will have to work that out.

Another Update

2005-03-30T10:25:00.000-05:00

I just talked to Gregg. He said that she is awake and alert and looked right in his eyes. She has been wiggling her toes and squeezed his hand. He told her that he was going to go talk to the doctor and to say "yes" if that was ok and she nodded.

They have stopped giving her morphine, but she is getting codeine for the pain. She is also getting fed Ensure through a tube in her nose.

Mackenzie is at the Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters in Norfolk, VA.

Mackenzie Update

2005-03-28T08:48:00.000-05:00

As of last night Mackenzie was starting to come out of sedation. They are still giving her morphine for the pain. She woke up for just a minute and said "Mama". The nurse had her do a few things like squeeze her fingers and she did it. She wasn't happy about it, but she did it.

Gregg said this morning that if there was brain damage, that it is the part of the brain that affects motor skills. She has been jerking to get out of her restraints, moving her feet and now grabbing the nurses hands. Every sign they say is good.

Most of her head is shaved and the incision is huge. All of the guys, including Gregg are going to shave their heads too.

We were told that the wall was white shiny tile and not even four feet tall. They said it was wide too, about 6-8 inches. Apparently she was just standing there. Her mom turned away to pick up her bags and heard a woman scream and then Mackenzie crying. They seem to think that she was trying to get down and slipped. She got sick on the way to the ER and said she wanted to sleep. She was just upset at first and even got up on the scale in the ER and went to the potty. When she went in for the cat scan she was unconscious.

Gregg is taking mom to the airport at about 10 and driving from Baltimore to Norfolk. That is about 5 hours. All of this after driving home 3 hours yesterday and returning the rental car. He didn't get home until about 1 am. I was exhausted, so I don't know how he did it.

Spanglish

2005-03-25T09:49:00.000-05:00

Spanglish comes out on DVD on April 5. I want this DVD just for the special feature “How to Make the World's Greatest Sandwich” featuring Thomas Keller of French Laundry".

If you haven't seen it, it's basically a BLT with an egg over easy.

Also, it is distributed by Gracie Films. :) It's funny how much her name shows up everywhere!

The Future is Near... the Grocery Store

2005-03-24T12:46:00.000-05:00

Just finished reading this article: http://www.business2.com/b2/web/articles/0,17863,1029485,00.html?cnn=yes

I would love to be able to walk through the grocery store with a scanner and just hit a button when I'm done to find them all ready at the check out.

Also, I REALLY hope that more stores consider the "Convenience Corner" where a few items like bread and milk are off to their own corner in the front. You can run in and out with just the items you needed. Gregg.

Cat go buh-bye

2005-03-24T12:42:00.000-05:00

The other night the cat was trying to play with Grace and she was having none of it.

"Cat!"

"Cat!"

"Cat, daddy, buh-bye!"

I can only infer that she was trying to tell Cat that Daddy was going to take him buh-bye for good. Daddy is already her protector and will make things that hurt her go buh-bye.

Tear Jerker

2005-03-16T15:13:00.000-05:00

These are the victim impact statements from Scott Peterson's sentencing. I cannot wrap my mind around a father killing his own child. It just kills me that she never got to hold her own baby. Conner would have been about a week older than Gracie.

Brent Rocha Victim Impact Statement (on behalf of his sister): It’s difficult, Scott, to get up here. It’s not an easy thing to do. Everything you’ve put us through, our family, your family… you’ve been sheltered in your jail cell. You have no idea what we’ve been going through. I don’t know how much you understand, how much you comprehend, how much feeling you can have, but I’m going to do it anyway. Maybe your arrogance is a coping mechanism, but sooner or later you’re going to have to face what you’ve done. I would hope you regret the choices you’ve made, maybe you don’t, but how do you not know it’s not right to take someone’s life? Did you really hate Laci and Conner that much? Or do you just not like yourself? You still go on like nothing’s happened. Why did you feel that you are better than everyone else? Because your parents gave you money? Or because you play a good golf game? You killed Laci and Conner because you knew you were living beyond your means. Your delusional life would have been over if Conner had come into the picture. We sat by the pool, and you told me you were down. I know what the truth is, and you are denying it!

Judge Delucchi stops speech, and says he will not tolerate anyone in the audience saying anything. You will be removed from the courtroom, I don’t care who you are!

Jackie (Scott’s mom): He didn’t do it then!

Lee (Scott’s dad) (to Brent): You are a liar! Bailiffs go over to him, Lee leaves with son-in-law with pastor. Scott is now talking to Geragos instead of listening to Brent.

Brent (cont’d): You will never know how great your life could have been if you would have let things that were going to happen, happen. There are issues with you and your parents, I don’t know what they are. You’re evil! Death is the appropriate punishment for your crime. I chose not to kill you myself, for one reason… so you would have to sweat it out, and not take the easy way out. You show no remorse. It’s hard to believe you can carry on with life as you do. It’s not comprehensible to me! You slept with Laci, ate her food, toasted her mother… knowing the whole time you were planning to kill Laci! Do you not have any compassion? Were you depressed… scared… angry… Why?! I think my sister’s head is probably rolling around the bottom of the Bay! My mother’s been through Hell... You’ve made a mess of her life! Okay Scott, since I’ll probably never speak to you again… You chose to kill a woman who’s five-foot tall and pregnant. How does it feel to be a baby killer? You are so far from the perfect rich-kid persona that was so important to you… You are truly a loser!!!

Everything was handed to you, so you didn’t have to develop the skills to be a successful adult. I just want you to know that it feels good knowing you do not want to be in jail. You have manipulated and embarrassed your parents... You should see how pathetic your mom looks! It’s really a sad thing you’ve brought our mothers to. It was somewhat gratifying to see the noose tightening around your neck. Scott, you are living a delusional life. You probably sit there right now thinking you are going to get off! When you walk to that execution room, look out the window and you’ll see Brooks Island… and you’ll know Laci and Conner have come to take you away!!!

Brent’s wife, Rose Rocha (to Scott): Laci was finally going to be a mother, she was so excited! Conner would have been two months older than my son, and to think that you asked to touch my pregnant stomach just days after you killed them… that disgusts me! Conner should be saying words, making animal sounds, and Laci never had the opportunity to have her son look into her eyes and hear him say, “Mom!” Baby Conner was never able to see the face of the person he heard talking while he was in Laci’s womb, a person who loved him so much! One person took that away from them because of his own selfish reasons! Your own son could have brought you a joy so great that you couldn’t imagine… if you’d just given him a chance! You chose to do this on your own, and now you have to be held accountable. I hope in your cell you start reflecting on what you’ve done. I know Laci is with Conner right now, and she’ll be with him forever. Scott, you’re an evil person and you’re going to pay for what you’ve done… not only in this life but for eternity!

Amy Rocha (Laci’s half sister, by same father): Remember the night I cut your hair, and asked what you wanted for Christmas? You said, “The baby!” …and you lied! You are a selfish and evil person! You have put our whole family through H*ll!!! I can’t believe at one time I actually wanted to find someone like you… You are a monster!! I was looking so forward to be able to help Laci, to live close to you guys! You are a coward and selfish person. Now our holidays will never be the same. Because of you, we were never even given the chance to meet Conner. I can’t believe you would murder my sister and nephew… your wife and son!!! You are sick, and you deserve everything coming to you. No punishment you receive on Earth will ever compare to the punishment God will give you when you die!!!

Dennis Rocha (Laci’s dad): Scott, a piece of **** is what you are. Stopped by judge. I never did like you. You were a rich boy from San Diego. But Laci loved you and I respected her feelings. What kind of person are you? You are going to burn in hell for this. You are not going to golf ever again, go out to dinner, no more women, you're life is over. You will burn in hell and I have nothing more to say to you.

Ron G (Laci’s step dad): The hardest thing I have to deal with is New Years Eve, I keep going back to it. I think of everyone at the vigil crying and you on the phone with your girlfriend saying you’re in Paris. That's a cold blooded no good son of a B. How your family can look at you and say you're such a good kid. Something is wrong with you and your family because that's not right. You're a lying hickin**** (admonished by judge.)

Sharon (Laci’s mom): There is an unbearable sadness in my life. The Scott I knew was the one Laci loved and I entrusted her to him. You made a conscious decision. A decision to murder them and you planned and executed their murders, (Scott is shaking his had no) Yes you did, Scott. Yes you did. You threw them away like a piece of garbage. Your arrogance led you to believe you were smarter than everyone else but you were dead wrong. You are not intelligent at all, you are stupid. Stupid to think murder was your only way out of a marriage. You attended a xmas party with your girlfriend while your pregnant wife went to a party alone. There was no way for me to know on 12/15 that it was the last time I would see my daughter but you knew. You are lazy, spoiled, self centered and a coward but above all, you are an evil murderer. Not even satan will claim to have a part in your make up. You Scott are proof that evil can lurk anywhere. You don't have to look evil to be evil. Why did you murder her? That's an answer we'll never get. How dare you murder her? I want her and always will. I trusted her and you betrayed her, me and everyone. She didn't stand a chance physically against you Scott, How did that make you feel? Did you feel accomplishment, relief they were gone? There's a huge whole in my heart and it will never heal. I miss Laci, miss teasing her, hearing her giggle, miss her telling me about plants and recipes. I miss being my daughter's mother.

I'll never meet my grandson because his own father murdered him. Laci didn't know the SP that sits in this courtroom. She loved you but she didn't need you Scott. I find solace in the thought that you sentenced yourself to death when you murdered Laci. You took it upon yourself to be her judge, jury and executioner. I want you to get what you deserve which is death. You didn't count on Laci's spirit being so strong. Stronger than your evilness. Laci was buried without arms to hold her baby, without a head to smell him in her arms. You have no idea what that thought does to my soul. I look at her picture and I am haunted of pictures of you murdering her. Did she know you were murdering her? Did you look her in the eye while you were murdering her? Was she conscious when you put her in the bay? Nothing will ever undo your evil. You deserve to be put to death asap. What were you thinking as you were killing Laci? What do you think she was thinking? I'll tell you what I think she was thinking: Scott why are you killing me? You know how much I love you. You promised to take care of me. Scott I don't want to die, please stop. And your son was thinking, Daddy why are you killing us, we don't want to die.

The judge emphasized the betrayal aspect of the crime as a husband and a father in terms of Conner being denied the opportunity to draw his first breath. The judge was emotional as he formally passed down the sentence.

2005-03-15T11:35:00.000-05:00

How much do I love the new Minnesota quarter?!!!

Easter Brunch Menu

2005-03-15T10:57:00.000-05:00

Since it's brunch we're having breakfast and lunch type food.

This may, of course, change as I keep researching the topic or if the wind blows...

Creme brulee french toast
Eggs Benedict
Quiche (Mom is making. Jealous?)
Apple sausage
Bacon
Fruit salad
Honey vanilla bean butter
Hot cross buns
Mimosas
Raspberry Lemonade
Ham
Glazed carrots
Asparagus (Just seems Spring-y)
Roasted potatoes
Coconut cream pie
Carrrot cake

Peeps!

2005-03-15T10:48:00.000-05:00

Lookie what just hatched in time for Easter at our house! We got a pink chick and bunny pillows! :)