Well, that's the ballgame folks!

Can you believe it! Christmas has come and gone. I hope you all had a great day and Santa was good to you! He was to me, as always, I'm totally spoiled! In a couple short hours I will be on the road to Tahoe, for a MUCH, MUCH, MUCH needed vacation! I've just got a coule of things here at work to clear up and I"m outta here~ I checked YAHOO Weather and Tahoe is expecting 4-6 inches of snow tonight! We will be there and ready for a little gambling, a couple of steak dinners and in general ....RELAXING!!! I've got a couple of trashy romance novels packed, we've got the DVD player packed with some of our favorite movies, Yatzee, Scrabble, snow gloves, pants and shoes, incase we want to make our snow angels! Doubt we'll do the skiing thing, I'd rather gamble than ski. Go figure... so my friends, I will close for now, so I can finish up my work and get the hell outa here. I wish you all a good day... and remember, to be safe out there! "see ya soon!"

Wishing all my Blogging friends a very Merry Christmas!!

As the day rapidly approaches. I wanted to wish my "faithfuls": Jen, Kim, Chuck, Mistress, Anthony, Pendullum,-Denise & Bre- A very Merry Christmas!
You guys are the best, and have made this whole blogging experience GREAT. I've enjoyed "meeting" and getting to know you all! Hope Santa is good to you!
Be safe out there, stay away from Denver, and have a Great Holiday! Anni

HATERS AMONGST US- WHATEVER

I've had some really funky stuff written in comments lately... Seriously you don't like the blog...don't stop by... or how 'bout this... I'm sure your mom told you once or twice.."you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything!" My dad would have said "SHUT THE HELL UP!" Be nice, Don't be a hater, Dude!

Hey Look, My Sidebar Is Back!!! it's a beautiful day in the neighborhood!

You've gotta love Winter in Central Cali!!!

So, I'm driving around yesterday, picking up parts for the shop, it's a beautiful and I do mean BEAUTIFUL day in the Central Valley! Crisp, Cool, Blue Skies, the sun feels good on your face...And then it happens, I'm suddenly inflicted with jealousy, and envy. This woman drives by in her brand new convertible BMW- top down of course...basking in the sunshine!!! I'm sure her heater was going "full speed ahead" as it was still only in about mid to high 30's!

So, with a heavy sigh, I jumped into the Shop Truck and drove back to the shop with the parts they needed... only to find the mechanics were taking an early lunch, all outside basking in the sunshine... they had the look of contentment on their faces. Just like a cat stretched out on couch that sits beside an open window with the sun shining in!

God I love California.

BEARS WIN IN OT!!!! What a game!!! 12-2!!!

They did it! They did it!!! Man, I was totally at the edge of my seat when, in the 2nd half, Tampa Bay decides to "Bring It" Whatever man, They were playing "MY BEARS". REX did what REX does best!!!!( though I get just a tad nervous at a long pass, I'll get over it!) Tomorrow, Mike and Mike in the AM will be talking about Devon Hester's fumble, Tank Williams' um.. recent chain of unfortunate events, the missed field goal of Robbie Gould, the career records of Desmond Clark, and REX. But I am sure they will still cap on REX as not being consistant... Again, I say "Whatever!"

It was quite a game, mix in Grandkids, and Christmas baking, this bear fan is pooped, but not quite ready to hibernate!!! til next week...


GOOOOO BEARS!!!!!

MISTRESS.... FISHY KNOWS!!! IT'S ALL O.K!!!

Mistress of Darkness, First and foremost, I can't seem to leave a comment on your blog. Is it me? I think I'm having issues! ... So I will do the next best thing and leave them on my blog! You and Chuck are my faithfuls so I know you'll see this..(however, Hi Bre!)

Yeah! your cute little DJ knows! Congrats! Your not a "nutjob" and he should be flattered, I'm sure he didn't become a DJ just cuz of the music..If you know what I mean! ;-). Looks like someone was a good girl, & got her Xmas wish a little early!!!

Enjoy it! you never know ....:-)

Hey, if you got your Xmas wish early... does that mean I get my SEXY REX (grossman)? I know, I'm old enough to be his very young mom...but I've been very, very good !!! ) keep us posted!!!!

WINNING BIG, BREAKING RECORDS AND NO TURNOVERS!

Now on to my boys! Damn did they do well! REX threw, well, no turn overs, he was definately having a much better night! I know Brian Griese was throwing with the "starters" during practice, just in case, Rex decided to choke... But Rex did well, or at least better than he had done in recent weeks!

The game it seems was centered around Devon Hester... Did I mention yet he should have his name on the back of a jersey???? While having a conversation with Hubby, I didn't realize this was his rookie year! MY GOD, LOVIE DON'T LET HIM GO!!!! He is destined to do very great things.. he's already broken 3 records... did I mention Rookie year?? I hope his ego doesn't get out of hand, then it really doesn't matter how good you are, if people can't stand you because you're a jerk.. (T.O. or "ocho cinco")

I really enjoyed the game last night, though, I did seem to fall asleep somewhere in the 4th quarter.. "I"m such a party animal" I learned 2 new terms (remember, I have never been a big sports fan other than college basketball, so, really all this is semi new to me and surprises the hell out of my friends)..."take away"... dah, same as a turn over... and another one while can't remember the term, I told hubby , "we'd revisit this term tomorrow...yawn... I'm not fully awake to care..." well obviously, I was too tired to remember ?
What a loser! :-)

"Mike and Mike in the morning", this morning we're still bagging on REX, but not as bad a usual, though they still said that One good game for REX out of the last 4 (?) doesn't mean he's back to were he was at the beginning of the season, so don't get too excited, (whatever) But definately they were singing the praises of Devon. Well, at least they had positive things to say about the boys as a team. They did played like the team they are, AWESOME.

GRRRRR GO BEARS!!!!!

CHRISTMAS PARTY FUN!!!

Last night was our Company's annual Christmas Party!!! We enjoy going, and we always have a good time. It's the one time of the year I socialize with co-workers, I usually don't schmmoooz with, for what ever reason. For the most part, tho, I am not anti-social,but you get an office full of women together, it's generally bad news, Too many personalities, and someone always has to be the "alpha female". I do have a small circle of co-workers that I do consider my friends, and as I have stated before, it's not the quantity, it's the quality !!! My co-worker friends totally rock!!! They are all in various stages of life and we're all just very cool, no egos and love to stay away from the DRAMA.!!!

The party started out as always, we entered the once working ferry boat, that now caters to parties and receptions, we pick up an envelope with our name on it, inside is drink tickets, name tags and a raffle ticket. Then we pick our table and then hit the bar! The drink tickets are for beer and wine, Hard Liquor is $$$ and also soda. My usual, A shot of Jack Daniels and a Diet Pepsi, Hubbys Beer...

The night is always funfilled, great food, this year, and Italian Resturant catered and always the best raffle prizes, the Xmas "committee" always chooses the best gifts... usually electronics, gift cards and 40, 80, and 120 hours paid vacation.(which is generally cashed out) Not bad at all.
This year myself and about 4 others were recognized as 10 year employees. We get the framed certificate of appreciation and a $50.00 gift card!

Usually, there is some sort of entertainment, the last two years we have been serenaded by a coworker who, actually auditioned for "American Idol", She has a beautiful voice. This year we were entertained by "the Garbagettes and Bill" a cute little ditty written by two of our customer service reps, to the tune of R-E-S-P-E-C-T. And while they have nothing on Aretha, they did a great job. Safety vests and all. Now... back to the raffle...

As I have said in previous posts my boss is the bomb! He's easy on the eyes, fairly easy to talk to, (I still get nervous, cuz he's my boss...) and has a sense of humor that wont quit!
He likes to "wheel and deal" when it comes to the raffle prizes, Co-worker Jen reminded me of one year, he "wheeled" one gal out of a gas bbq and into 2 dozen Krispy Kreme Donuts... This year's prizes included Xbox360, 4 or 5 ipods, kareokee machine, boom box, a couple of "wrapped prizes" which usually means..gag gift and the ever popular envelopes! Envelopes contain, $$$$ in some form. the Raffle begins and they are getting down to just the envelopes, there was this one evelope everyone kept passing up... and just when I had given up all hope, My number is up...'I WANT THAT ONE ENVELOPE, EVERYONE IS PASSING UP" My boss asks me do I really want that envelope. YES! I open it up and there is a $50.00 gift card. Cool, but then boss man said ...is there more??? and OMG!!! tucked inside the GC, there was a certificate for 120 hours of vacation.!!! that's 3 yes, 3 weeks vacation!!!! I'm cool!!!! Im awesome,!!!! and I want to thank the first guy, who passed up the envelope, and went on to win a nose trimmer!!! I figure, it's gonna be cashed out, unfortunately at the bonus rate.. which sucks but then , I have spending money for my vacation in a couple of weekS!!!!!

Then it's time to dance & drink! As the crowd starts thinning out, we're sitting b.s.ing with a few others...one co-worker brought her boyfriend and her brother( all about 20-24), me and hubby and then another couple-coworker bf and bro, are lit, having a good time telling us we were by far the funnest table... laugh , laugh, the bf looks at me and asked how old I was...HUMMM I suppose he never heard not to ask a woman her age, but... Me being me...told him... "44" his reply... "man, I can't imagine being that old..." OUCH! AND THANKS PAL!, YOU HAVE JUST LOST ALL BROWNIE POINTS, EARNED" :-)

The night was a success, The Garbagettes and Bill should take their show on the road...the "comittee" did well as usual and I scored big! We closed the placed down and this "old broad" slept like a baby!

WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO MY SIDEBAR- AND HOW DO I GET IT BACK TO WHERE IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE...

ANY HELP FROM MY BLOGGER BUDDIES??? ANY THOUGHTS??? ANY...???
I FEEL "BLOGGINGLY CHALLENGED" AT THIS POINT!!!

CHRISTMAS SEASON IS ON!!! and other seasonal chaos in my life!!!

Today was my annual Christmas shopping day with my sister! Every year, we go on our annual "pilgrimage" to the holy land...ie MALLS and "get r done!" We hit 3 malls today, 2 in town and 1 in a neighboring town and much to my surprise I am almost done.!!! It was a successful trip!
With most of the shopping out of the way now, it's time for the baking portion of our season! I started last Saturday actually: I made Streuselkucken-(german) for Hubby's B-d. This is the cake his mom always baked for his birthday. However, since she is no longer with us, this task has been taken over by me, for all family functions, I'm actually getting good at the German dishes that his mom made. ( Which is pretty awesome since she was a fabulous cook, and also very hard since alot of her good recipes are in German... I suck a coverting metric measurements to Standard.) I also no longer get.. "well it's good, but not quite like my mom's" And my bro-in-law has also given me the sign of approval. Then that followed with lemon filled cookies my Zia makes. I'm hunting high and low for my dad's Pizzelle iron, and while my mom said I have it , I can't seem to find it. once I find it however, I need to perfect the recipe. It was always a tradition during the holidays, that my dad made about 12 dozen Pizzelle cookies, He'd have Monday night Football going while standing over a hot stove cooking each cookie one by one! Our neighbors, and teachers loved being on the receiving end of these cookies! and it was always cool explaining to a new teacher about these cookies! But the iron hasn't had much action since my dad passed away, and I've tried a couple of times ... but mostly I made a mess and wasted a lot of flour, sugar and eggs. I once called my Aunt to see if she had any pointers, but was not much help. And now at the age of almost 90, she has trouble remembering that I am even old enough to be married with Children. But I will seek this Iron and make these damn cookies...or die trying. Ok a little dramatic, but if that idea tanks,, then Biscotti it is and a couple of other cookies.
The house has also been on edge too, as Little S is taking Baby K's Daddy to court to try to some type of custody arrangement taken care of. He's a D*ck and we never really cared for him. Gritted our teeth while she dated him. and then...GUESS WHAT... He's trying to bully her into things and she is wearing her emotions on her sleeve, so he plays her like a finely tuned fiddle. He'll get tired of the "daddy thing" and totally flake eventuallly, but for now... she's al little edgy.. I will be glad when tomorrow is over.
We have this house around the corner from us, who every year put an elaborate "Grinch" display. They have "whoville" on the front lawn and the Grinch and Sleigh high atop the roof and a continual story of the Grinch, with Boris narrating it. It's really spactacular. We can't wait to take the babies to visit it. Even the Big girls still like to visit! I will try to snap a shot and post along with other visuals around town. One house has an elaborate Nativity Scene, when I say elaborate, I mean Mary and Joseph are beyond life size, I think, they are about 10 feet tall? It's beautiful.. I doubt I will be able to snap a pix as this man is rather wealthy and there are security people around. I'll see what I can do!
I'm rambling which pretty much means, I'm a "pooped little camper" It had been a couple of days since by last blog and you all needed to know I didn't fall off the face of the earth, but I'm just really busy...(throw an 11 hour days on top of all the other activity..) I will try to blog when I can.

Happy Christmas Season, Have a great Tuesday.. And be careful out there!

I'm Late but here it is!!! Go Bears!!!!

Hey Sports Fans! They fricking did it again! My boys won! How the hell they did, is beyond me. I love my Bears.. They Boo'd my Rex...this girls take on the whole thing?
Well, here it is...
Rex is a fairly young player technically, I don't believe he has played a full season, with the exception of this season, due to injury....Let's recap. REX is still a little green and they have put all their "eggs in his basket" I don't necessarily think that was the wisest thing, but I'm not calling the shots or making the millions like those who do. One thing you've got to admire, Rex is taking responsibility for his errors, And Yes, it must really suck being boo'd. That alone would have sent a lesser person crawling in a hole to die of humiliation. But Rex seems to "suck it up and" deal with it... Rex, you have my admiration!!!!
Now, Devon Hester! You da man! The more I watch you, the more I like. Why isn't your name on the back of a jersey yet? If it is, I don't see it in my NFL catalogue.
Brian U.!!!! I know your name is on the back of a jersey ( Cuz, baby K will be getting one for Christmas ). I just like the fact ....boom, your there and down goes the opponent.
Tank? You've got to love a guy who's name is TANK!!!!
And Yes, I know there are others on the team I have not mentioned, and for that I apologize. And there you have it my uneducated take on this game and my Bears... Til next week sports fans!!!!
GO BEARS~

Thirteen Things On Ann's Fantasy Xmas Gift List Jen, I taking you idea and running with it! And I do like your list!!! 1…. Cabana boy- I think I would like his name to be Roberto, with dark brooding eyes. NO SPEEDO, however, those are just gross! Beach Jams for sure, they're sexier! 2. A week at a luxury hotel, with all the trimmings: room service, maid service, a big big comfy bed, no phones,no kids,(sorry kids) no tv. but a lot of really good books and a private jacuzzi! 3. My 2,400 sq ft log cabin by the lake, with the wrap around porch, with a waterfall in the bathroom and the bathroom would be really big too! 4. A laptop with the whole wireless thing going on...which may not be too far out in the future! Hubby, you reading this? doubtful... but he knows.... 5. A really cool RV loaded with all the extras, so we can travel across the US, maybe hit the BEARS -vs- GREENBAY game.... Celtics -vs- Kings, Braves-vs-A's game. 6. Trip to Europe, Places of interest: Italy, of course, Greece, France (I know) and this cemetary in Malta... It's name is my last (maiden) name... 7. A trip to Vegas with unlimited funds!!! Yeah baby! Although the ESPN zone was way cool too! 8. My own personal ski instructor and with any luck he could moonlight as a piano instructor as well, My piano playing is bad 9. A $1,000.00 gift card to Barnes and Noble. And a library built on to my house. Books of choice - cheesy romance novels, of course, a good romance novel where they main characters are 'getting busy" within the first 3 chapters! Anything Stephen King, David Baldacci and throw in a few biographies too! 10. A houseboy, to take care of my every whim... 11. Readers Digest knocking on my door, congratulating me, I'd won the biggest jackpot ever!!!! Yes, debt free and retired!!!! 12. Diamonds!!!! lots and lots!!!! 13. An ultra cool, really big plasma TV that hangs on the wall and I get total controll of the remote.......wow that really is a fantasy huh? :-) Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

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6 WEIRD THINGS ABOUT ME!

Ok, My friend, Jen tagged me and now I'm it...I'm supposed to tell you 6 weird things about me, and in complete detail then in turn... tag 6 more friends... this like a crazy chain letter, man, only, if I break the chain, bad luck won't be bestowed upon me... I hope... So here ya go:

1. I still have all my 45's and 33LP's that's "vinyl" for those of you born after what 1985?? Unfortunately they don't consist of the music I listen to,now. I'm cringing as I put this up, but anyone who might have a sister close to my age will understand...OK.. here ya go and please... don't judge me... I have grown a lot musically! Donny Osmond, Bobby Sherman, David Cassidy, Tony DiFranco and the Difranco family ( you knew there had to be Italians in there somewhere!) I also believe I have some 78's too.My taste has vastly improved!

2. I was painfully shy growing up! I really didn't come out of my shell until I was about 15 when I got my first job. Those who know me know can't believe it, but alas it's true, dear friends. If I were to go into a room full of strangers... you'd find me blending into the wall.. Yes, a total Wall flower! I hate going to meetings or seminars for work and work as a group with strangers, cuz I'm so uncomfortable. I avoid it like the plague!

3. I can't sleep without the TV on. A bad habit I got into about 13 years ago, I was in the hospital, my son was stillborn, and I had a 5 night stay at the hospital, I had the TV on so I didn't have to deal with what was happening to me, hear the monitors, or babies, plus I was always awake between 2-4am , (I assume that was my sub- conscience) because that is when everything had happened. This went on for several months, so if the TV was on, everything was o.k. I know weird.

4. My very first concert was the BEE GEES, back in 1979, GO DISCO! We were at the Oakland Collisium and sat 3rd row from the stage.. Now, Berry, Maruice (my personal fav RIP),Robin & Andy Gibb in Tight white satin pants? oh yeah baby! I bought a telephoto lens for my Camera, took 7 rolls of film with me and used them all up! Of course I was so close, I really didn't need the lens...And I still have those photos! I recently admitted to hubby, that I wasted a lot of my years not listening to the right music, thinking it was all drug music...though Pink Floyd, Led Zepplin will never be in my music collection. And again, i say my taste in music has improved, however, I am still a BEE GEES fan.

5. I don't drink, but my alcoholic beverage of choice is JACK DANIELS!!! I love Jack! I can't even begin to figure this one out. And I guess I wont!

6. When I was little, I wanted to get married and have 8 kids like my grandmother-then when I hit my teenage years I wasn't going to get married at all, I was going to be the cool single, beautiful, auntie, ( I wasen't even wild about kids) and my sister was going to have a litter of kids... hummm, Now, lets look, my sister has 1 son and has been married for about 24 years... and me, married for 20 with 3 daughters and 2 granddaughters... life is funny sometimes huh???

Well, that's it folks, I'm sure I could come up with some more odd but trues..but, I don't want to scare away the blogging friends I do have... :-)

END OF MONTH CHAOS AND I DON'T WANT TO WORK!!!

I want to play! I have been locked up in my 2 very cold offices for the last 3 days... It's beautiful outside and I want the sun on my face, this pasty white girl is getting pastier with each day that passes. I go to work when it's dark and go home in the dark! I want to play!!!!!! I want to get in my little Kar and drive with the windows down (burrrrrr) and the music up!!!! But, Alas..... I am stuck in the end of month abyss, Hell, if you will! it's not really that bad but I really need some sunshine(vitamin DD)!!!!! quick someone take me away from this madness!!!!
OK NOW BACK TO REALITY!!!!!!!
I've been tagged by Jen, Thanks! Jen... I don't get to shout "not it?" I can't tag anyone..I don't have 6 friends.... Poor Ann! :-) ok, I will work on the 6 wierd facts about me .... I will post it tonite. Little G is getting kicked off the computer for a couple of hours.. i'm in "bloggers withdrawl." I'm starting to shake..... help me......

ITALIAN, CATHOLIC JOKES!!! YOU'VE GOTTA LUV IT!!!

For the next 14 weeks, I will be sitting in for my co-worker, friend who just had a baby!!! So, I'm doing her job and my job and spending about 12 hours a aday at this CHAOS, I LIKE TO CALL MY JOB!!!! So, my blog time is limited, especially since, by the end of the day, I have nothing creative left in me! So from time to time I'll just throw in a joke I got via e-mail ... instead of something boring from me. So enjoy... =8-)Anni


ITALIAN BOY'S CONFESSION

"Bless me Father, for I have sinned. I have been with a loose
woman."
The priest asks, "Is that you, little Johnny Parisi?"
"Yes, Father, it is."
"And who was the woman you were with?"
"I can't tell you, Father, I don't want to ruin her
reputation."
"Well, Johnny, I'm sure to find out her name sooner or later,
so you may as well tell me now. Was it Tina Minetti?"
"I cannot say."
"Was it Teresa Volpe?"
"I'll never tell."
"Was it Nina Capelli?"
"I'm sorry, but I cannot name her."
"Was it Cathy Piriano?"
"My lips are sealed."
"Was it Rosa Di Angelo, then?"
"Please, Father, I cannot tell you."
The priest sighs in frustration. "You're very tight lipped,
Johnny Parisi, and I admire that but you've sinned and have to atone.
You cannot be an altar boy now for 4 months.
Now you go and behave yourself."
Johnny walks back to his pew, and his friend Nino slides over
and whispers, "What'd you get?"
"Four months vacation and five good leads."

My Friend's son's band... take a look!!!

Our Friend's son is in a band DESA they're pretty good. They are coming out with their new CD next week! My friend is sooo proud and I've meet them, and heard them play at couple of parties, though, they played stuff we all know and luv, but all in all, this is pretty cool! Have a listen and see for yourself.??? Depending on how broad your musical interests are, you might enjoy! :-)

Chaos On The Gridiron...Boys, what happened???

Ok, you Bears fans, I know it was all my fault. I wore my OFFICIAL BEARS SWEATSHIRT on Friday to work, and I didn't get it washed in time to be worn today. In other words, I didn't "suit up", I didn't put baby K in her Official BEARS Onesie, and the world was just off kilter. I apologize. Lovie made a couple of good challenge calls, (I guess that's what it would be call) except well, the one where NE missed the field goal, then got to do it again and made it... that, well, kind of blew.... well, 2 out of 3 road games is good, right? I do promise next week.,I will be suited up for sure!

I LUV BLONDE JOKES, I LUV ITALIAN JOKES... and i really luved this one!!!

Just a little humor, those who are offended...Sorry, hopefully MY blogging friends have a good sense of humor!!!!
Guido, the Italian Lover
A virile, middle aged Italian gentlemen named Guido was relaxing at his
favorite bar in Rome when he managed to attract a spectacular young blonde
woman. Things progressed to the point where he invited her back to his
apartment and after some small talk, they retired to his bedroom where he
rattled her senseless.
After a pleasant interlude he asked with a smile, "So, you finish?"
She paused for a second, frowned, and replied, "No."
Surprised, Guido reached for her and the rattling resumed. This time she
thrashed about wildly and there were screams of passion. The sex finally
ends and, again, Guido smiles and asks, "You finish?"
Again, after a short pause, she returns his smile, cuddles closer to him and
softly says, "No."
Stunned, but damned if he was going to leave this woman unsatisfied, Guido
reaches for the woman yet, again. Using the last of his strength, he barely
manages it, but they end together screaming, bucking, clawing and ripping
the bed sheets. Exhausted, Guido falls onto his back, gasping. Barely able
to turn his head, he looks into her eyes, smiles proudly and asked again,
"You finish?"
Barely able to speak, the beautiful blonde whispers in his ear, "No, I
Norwegian."

Thirteen Things Ann is Thankful For! 1.Mom 2. Dad (R.I.P.) 3. Grandma C (my Grandpa C didn't go to weddings...stubborn DEGO!) 4. Granmda H 5. Grandpa H 6. My hunny!- Yes, that's us September 20, 1986..I'm thankful he puts up with my independent self! He is the "Ying to my Yang" My little Angels 7. Little S 8. Little G 9. Little A -the first picture was taken about 10 years ago... the one just below was in October. 10. Baby K, the Cowgirl and 11. Little Little G the witch. 12. My Blogging friends! I don't have hundreds like some bloggers do, but I believe "QUALITY NOT QUANTITY"! I love you guys, you are always one of the bright spots in my day! 13. The fact that I live in the greatest country in the world, there are people out there fighting for us, willing to give their lives, so we can have the freedoms we have. Too many take them for granted. That's it you guys! well theres more, but it's Thursday 13! And I've got a turkey to cook! Have a great holiday and now go out there and make a memory! Ann Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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HIGHWAY CHAOS! BE CAREFUL OUT THERE, I'M A WOMAN ON THE EDGE!

After putting in a couple of hours of OT tonite I was thinking my 10 minute drive home might be somewhat relaxing after a flippin 11 hour day. But alas my disappointment, the "5" was seriously backed up, it was almost 6pm! Usually, it's not a problem getting home on the "5" without too much "taking ones life in ones own hands" But tonite? Crap! I was seriously on the edge, not in the mood for those lucky bastards who are already on the road, ready for an unusually long holiday weekend! It was kind of like hurry up so we can come to a complete stop, but I'm gonna do it in front of you, not in back of you! Nobody has any type of highway ettiquette anymore, except maybe a few truckers, there's no merging, leaving a couple of car lengths between you and the car in front. Stop and go, Stop and Go, and if people just keep a steady pace, it wouldn't be so stop and go. For Christ sakes people get a clue! Then you have the little "clown boy" in the souped up Honda with illegal muffler weaving in and out of traffic not using a blinker, just being a d*ck, or the person in the car behind me, riding my ass... (you wanna ride my ass you better be pulling my hair!) I was ready to go "postal" it was a long day and I wasn in no mood! I thought for a couple of times this person was going to slam into me. I was in the slow lane as my exit was just up aways but unfortunately so was this persons'... finally I made it home in one piece, 25 minutes later, but i'm home, and trying to unwind so I can have another fun filled day at the office. I love my job I love my job I love my job, I just thank God I have good music going at all times...car, office AT ALL TIMES!

SO, while out on the road this weekend take care and be careful! I'd miss you if you were gone!

THE HOLIDAY CHAOS IS BUILDING UP

Well, once a year about this time, we-the huddled masses-(or at least a 95%of us) go into a frenzie about the Holidays! Myself included! I spent a major portion of the day Saturday watching the FoodNetwork with my mom. I watched my favorites; Paula, Giada, Sandra, Michael and Rachel putting together Holiday dinners that would make even those with the best culinary skill cry! While they put together, effortlessly, these fabulous edible masterpieces, smiling laughing, joking around with the family, telling us about their traditions, and all the fun they have during the holidays! But it makes one wonder, is this just for TV? Do they ever have a disaster in the kitchen? fight amongst the family? Who really does all the dishes afterwards?
Panic sets in as I realize that Christmas is now just around the corner, I'm only half way done with my shopping, I started in July, and since I make my own Christmas cards each year... crap, I haven't even started those at all, tho I have an Idea. I'd like to say I was much more "together", but...NO. I guess I just work well under pressure... but why do I do this to myself? My Neice and nephews like cash, that should be easy right? But to a "kid at heart" like me, I like to open presents! (I know grow the hell up) My sister in law has made it perfectly clear, not to give them anything other than cash...My sister has said my nephew likes cash, this should be easy, but why do I feel cheated that I don't get to buy a present? I know get over it and don't complain! My sister and I have in past years, done a Shopping marathon, We start when the stores open and keep going until we get tired or we;re out of cash... ususally it's the latter! :-)
We have fun just the same!
But as much as I bitch about it! I love this time of year! I love that my living room is (literally) flooded with wrapping paper, my mom nags about being careful not to accidently throw away the christmas checks she gives to the kids, And my kids saying , I don't have any place to put their new stuff and the fact that my youngest comes out with a list of items for next year! the count down begins!!!! Good luck!

Tired Chaos!

I'm doing 2 different jobs at work.. I'm also trying to come up with something witty... but tonite??? no, not gonna happen.. I will sleep now and dream of something inspiring and share with you tomorrow... Good nite dear blogging friends! Have a great weekend!

Thirteen of Ann's Favorite Movies Although ask hubby, he’ll tell you every movie is my favorite movie!!! 1…. GREASE I totally love John Travolta!!! I saw this movie like 12 times in the theater, I’ve seen the stage performance 4 different times! One time in San Francisco with Rex Smith, Davy Jones, Sally Struthers! And watched the video every Saturday (while getting ready for work) for like 3 years, straight! Bought the sound track, I was a little obsessed! I love a good musical! 2. GIDGET- I stayed up until 11:30 the other nite (I get up at 4am) watching this movie! James Darren? OH BABY! I will never get tired of this movie! 3. BLACK HAWK DOWN I’m not a big fan of war type movies, but this was the best movie! 4. STARWARS- how many time did I see it? Way too many!!! A dashing, young Harrison Ford and cute, adorable Mark Hamill. Yeah, I will admit, I wanted to be Princess Leah! Great Music. Great Story, I took my kids maybe 10 years ago.. and they were totally unimpressed. I was so disappointed! 5. CRASH- This was definitely one of those movies that you don’t get up for just a minute! There were so many twists and turns; very, very good! And who know Sandra Bullock could play such a bitch! I loved it! 6. SCARFACE- AL PACINO!!!!! Nuff said! Though I have no framed movie posters in my “crib” 7. GODFATHER The whole “DON” thing intrigues me. And a movie about Italians !!! 8. MEET THE PARENTS/MEET THE FOCKERS “The circle of trust!” Owen Wilson is Hilarious. So out there! (I know this should count for two) Barbara and Dustin! Perfect! 9. A PERFECT MURDER – “that’s not happiness to see me.” Michael Douglas can play such dirt bag parts! Ya know? 10. THE REF – This is a perfect movie for the imperfect family! They put the fun back in dysfunctional! This is a family Holiday favorite! We watched it on Christmas with my mom in the room…Totally turned off with all the F words flying, Our favorite Line?” Excuse me, Excuse me, Excuse me, the corpse still has the floor!” as Kevin Spacey is beating the Christmas tree with fire poker. 11. NEVER BEEN KISSED While I didn’t look like “Josie Grosie” in high school, I think this is a movie every teenage girl can relate to. 12. THE WEDDING SINGER- I love a good goofy love story 13. A FEW GOOD MEN I’m not a Tom Cruise or Jack Nicholson fan, but I loved this movie just the same. Who knew? Start your list here! Links to other Thursday Thirteens!1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

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BLOGGER CHAOS! NOW I'M REALLY TICKED!

I just spent an hour and a half on my Thursday 13! God it was perfect, I went to post it, after painstackingly checking for spelling errors. I really wanted to have it up for Thursday AM But somewhere along the line I "mucked" something up and well, it's now almost 11 pm and I'm pooped! I have to get up in 5 1/2 hours and be my charming, adorable self.!!! Of course the body will be moving, but there is no sparkling conversation until at least 7:30am. after the coffee has kicked in...So I will get to work at 6am and post one of my boring TT's for this week! So Thanks for stopping by and check back later in the day! Sweet Dreams my friends! Noni needs sleeeeep!

Pictures from my "Thelma and Louise" weekend.

I didn't have enough to make a Thursday 13 pictorial...
and I'm pretty much talked out for the day, so I will post these for your enjoyment!!! (And know Photojournalism is not in my future!) Now, I'm sure most of these places are very, very wet today, It's been a very cold and wet raining day here in Cali!

More Chaotic Ramblings for A Sunday Afternoon!

First off my beloved Bears won't be on until tonite...They say #54 is 85-90% o.k. we can look at it 2 ways..Suck it up Bri, it's just your toe.. or Sit it out and don't cause anymore damage , as it would seriously suck, BIG GREEN ONES, for you to be out the rest of the season. #8, my sexy Rexy! They, meaning the BIG BOYS ON ESPN, are saying good things about you, but don't stress out there... yes, I know easy for me to say, as there is not a million and two people watching me. I know you're still a little green out there but you're doing a good job.

Friday nite comedy show proved to be stellar indeed,Nick Griffin, a divorced man, with incredible blue eyes, was hilarious! He talked about what God was really thinking about all the Boob Jobs in the world..." those are nice but their not mine" He did however receive a few booooos when he went to say 'thank you, MO...(Modesto perhaps? instead of Stockton,.. ouch! I felt bad for him.. it's gotta be tough touring and trying to keep places straight!) But he recovered and kept a smile on his face! Kathleen Madigan, Normally, I find female comedians are a tad bit raunchier than their male counterparts, but she was fabulous! No "Raunch" She was too funny! By the time Kevin Pollack got on stage my cheeks were hurting I was laughing so hard! He did his Christopher Walken impressions. Then he did one of Jack Nicholson, OMG, He did something with his face that was completely frightening, He actually looked like Jack as he was in THE SHINING, bursting through the door...:"Here's Johnny" (I think that was the quote) I'm shuttering all over again! Then afterwards they were just out in the lobby, talking to people! I have never seen anything like that! IT was soooo cool!

Saturday nite UOP had their home opener against CSUBakersfield: Good game, I thought I would be disappointed when at half time the score was...like in the low 30's each team! but they pulled it out and stayed ahead for the remainder of the game. final score was 65-CSB and 75 UOP, still a low scoring game as far as I can see but since this is a "new team" most of their top players gradulated last May. Well, we'll see if we can make the play offs for the 4th year in a row.! I think last year they lost in the playoffs in double over time.. which really sucked, but it was a really good game.!!! I had my tv going in my office and the year prior, I actually left work before the game..Obsessed maybe just a bit.

As for my plans for ready my steamy romance novel, and my fire..right, like it was nice dreaming that one...... it's now 3:30 pm and It's actually taken me all day to do this post since I've been interrupted about a bazillion times. but they were nice interruptions so I didn't mind... I'm gonna close this one for now...while I can.

It's 2 hours to kick off...how do those east coast folks do it... wait until 8:30 pm for a game? GADS! give me strength!!!

RANDOM THOUGHTS FOR A FRIDAY.. FRIDAY MENTAL CHAOS!!!

It’s 2:30 and I want to go home…don’t want to play anymore! Well, here at work anyway! I just started a great new cheesy romance novel and I am sure they will be having fabulous, earth shattering SEX in the next chapter! Well, let me give you correct verbage… they will be “tupping” (since it’s a HIGHLANDER BOOK) very soon. When the Scottish Tup, they TUP WELL! They have been playing crap on the radio, and I am actually hiding from one of my employees since he only comes into my office to stare at my chest… HELLO BUDDY.. EYES… UP HERE…(I’m pointing to my eyes…) Oh wait I have on my Hard Rock Sweatshirt… No cleavage today! So I guess it’s safe, he just popped his head in to see how my day went. It wouldn’t bug me so much if he didn’t give me the CREEPS! I'm H/R I guess I need to be less judgemental. I'm really ready to start my weekend!!!!!! Lots of things to do! Comedy show tonite; mom, shopping, Saturday nite Mass, then Basketball-home opener of UOP, Saturday, and hopefully, I will be sitting next to the fireplace on Sunday, since it’s supposed to rain,Reading my cheesy new novel! And I suppose I need to work some house cleaning and other wifely,motherly and NONI duties in as well. But that only comes after Blogging with my blogging Friends! I love my blogging friends!!!!

OK. Well, this blog killed about 10 minutes, Now I only have an hour and 20 minutes left of this place!!!!!!!!!!! I love my job… just not on Friday afternoons!!! I'm ready to start my weekend!!!!

13 Of Ann's favorite affirmations! Most of these, I received via e-mails and I’m sure you’ve all seen them too, but it’s nice to see them again! I don’t have author’s names to any of them but maybe one or two. So, I’m probably breaking some copyright laws (again), but enjoy just the same! 1) You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than dreams…Dr. Suess. 2) Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened! 3) No man/woman is worth your tears, and the one who is, won’t make you cry. – I tell this to my girls all the time. 4) The worst way to miss someone is to be sitting right beside them know you can’t have them. 5) Never frown even when you are sad, because you never know who’s falling in love with your smile. 6) To the world you maybe one person, but to one person, you may be the world. 7) Just because someone doesn’t love you the way you want them to, doesn’t mean they don’t love you with all they have. 8) Life is too short to dance with ugly men!… Maxine 9) Don’t waste your time on a man/woman who isn’t willing to waste their time on you. 10) Maybe God wants us to meet a few wrong people before meeting the right one, so that when we do meet the right one, we will know how to be greatful. 11) Enjoy life, this is no dress rehearsal !!! 12) A good friend will bail you out of jail, a GREAT friend will sit beside you and say “damn, that was fun!” 13) Life is not measured by the breaths we take but, by the moments that take our breath away.-this one is my personal favorite, It’s on my email attachment at work. Start your list here! Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

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Friday Night Chaos...not for me !!

I'm sure I'm breaking some copy right law by putting this picture up..but oh well. Friday Nite We will have the pleasure of 2nd row, center seats to the "FRIENDS OF BOB AND TOM SHOW" Featuring Kevin Pollack!! I have heard him on the show several times...OMG he's hilarious! I never knew, he did stand up!!!

We've done the "Friends" show before with Donnie Baker, Greg Hahn, Greg Warren and a couple of others who's names escape me at this late hour. My sides seriously hurt, I laughed so hard! I'm excited though, I'm in need of a good show!

I VOTED! DID YOU??

But I have one question, If you have to be able to read and write in English to vote, then why are the ballots in Spanish? Oh and when I voted I was asked if I wanted an English or Spanish "I voted" sticker. Hello!!!! Blonde hair, Blue eyes, okay you figure it out... I was tempted to get on MY soapbox and tell the story of my immigrant grandparents arrival to Ellis Island, not knowing the language, yet never asking for anything special from our country, but a place to live, hum.... But I didn't.

I have to post this! Everyone CAN make a difference! My thinking on this voting privilege is simple. "I CAN BITCH, BECAUSE I VOTE!" For those who don't... well, you don't get to nor do I have to listen! Be responsible...get out there and vote!

Back to Reality Chaos...Did I really have to come home???

Well, we're back and back to the reality that is our lives! It was great fun driving to places, I had never been to before. Scenery was beautiful and as you can see the weekend was great! It rained Friday nite into Saturday morning but by the time we had left town, the day promised to be gorgeous! This is our hotel, we stayed at a Best Western, It was nice and had all the conveniences of home, ie hairdryer, ironing board, shampoos, etc.... And right next door a restaurant/bar Yipee, freakin' skippy, I could drink and not worry about driving... as I've said before, I'm a serious light weight when it comes to the "spirits!" plus, I'll get sick before I get drunk. yuck! But before we head to the bar, it's time for some "drive bys" and gambling!
Ok, I will explain the drive by part, I have an old friend (male) who I was hoping to run into, as I had heard he lived in the area. Well, that was a bust, so.... off to the casino! Thunder Valley Casino was aboat 1/2 hour from our hotel. Sorry about the photo... I should have gotten a better shot before I drove off. We were there about 3 hours or so and well, NO I didn't win squat, but considering I was playing on a 2 cent slot machine, the payout I'm sure would have been not much! Plus I only lost about 10.00 on this machine... in 2 1/2 hours time. I'm good with that! By the time we were ready to leave it was just about dinner time.. o.k. it was actually past dinner time. So we went back to the hotel walked across the parking lot to the restaurant. OH BOY IT WAS KAREOKE NIGHT... 'cept Ann can't carry a tune! So I was hoping for a little variety, at the very least... NOT!!! We had the Kareoke Master, one Older Bar Fly and a late comer with a big cowboy hat and belt buckle. KM starts off with a Patsy Cline tune... Our thoughts at this time was what no rock? All throughout dinner it was Older BF and KM - Let tell you though about the older gal could sing! I appreciate anyone who can get in front of people and sing...And on key! But I'm not a little bit country... At all. Then in comes cowboy... Man he belted out a love song "I can't unlove you" I think it might be by Kenny Rogers, if my Google button is correct, but I was really hoping he could stay up there and sing... I could listen some more... Maybe some Little Texas, Lonestar, Alabama? No, he sat back down with his lady, what a bummer. well, not for her, I suppose. And well, I had just finished my 3rd Baileys' and coffee and welllll feeling a little ... well, it was my third Bailey's! So it was back to the hotel were I slept very very very well. (LIGHTWEIGHT! I know) we get back to the Hotel and there is this guy dressed in what I thought was square dance clothes ( I later learned he was a "clopper" ?) At any rate this guy was "lit", "keyed" "faced" bad! I think he was trying to get into his truck, but seemed to have some difficulty picking up the water bottle he dropped..well, if he couldn't pick up the bottle, chances are dude shouldn't drive. I said my "Hail Marys" and "thank you Lords" when he stumbled back up the stairs... (however he did that was nothing short of a miracle) and I assumed, PASSED OUT!
Sunday Morning, Breakfast time! I love going out to Breakfast! The off to APPLE HILL, this is an area of Placerville that is nothing but apple ranches! God it was beautiful! We went to two different ranches: the first one was wall to wall people. It was kind of cool though as their parking lot was the apple orchard, itself. It was like the typical "street fair" type thing with the craft vendors, food booths, pertaining to apples mostly, of course. After about 2 hours of apples and people, we headed for home. Families were happy to see us. So ended our "Thelma and Louise" weekend.... Next time ... more time at the casino!!!!! WE were good. didn't rob any convenience stores, pick up any cowboys, (damn it!) or drive off any cliffs, but there was a hairy one on highway 49! Again... Maybe next time! We had a picture taken of us prior to and after our trip! but vanity prohibits me from posting it.... ;-)

13 REASONS I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO MY “THELMA AND LOUISE” WEEKEND! This weekend will be the first weekend in like... forever, which I am getting away from it all! My friend and I are hitting the highway Saturday morning; we are saying “goodbye” to husbands, children, and really any everyday type responsibility. The destination? Not really sure, we have a hotel room secured and it’s about an hour away from anything we want to do and about 2 hours from home!!! 1) I DON’T HAVE TO WATCH “FLAVOR OF LOVE” …AGAIN! I swear to God, my girls have watched the whole series from the first to last episode and then the reruns too! Like it’s going to change! I’m sorry but Miss New York is a Drama Queen and (secretly glad, Flav didn’t pick her… again-burn on her!) 2) I DON’T HAVE TO COMPROMISE IF I WANT TO DO ANYTHING! We don’t have a game plan other than to get away. Like Thelma and Louise, maybe we will pick up good looking cowboys in a bar… I never had that kind of luck when I was single, but it’s nice to dream! 3) I DON’T HAVE TO GO TO MCDONALD’S FOR LUNCH! We plan on a nice dinner at the casino. So we’ll skip lunch! 4) I’M SECRETLY HOPING TO “RUN INTO” AN OLD FRIEND WHO LIVES IN THE AREA - refer to #2, but he wasn’t a cowboy and I haven’t seen him in many years! He is Italian though!!! Being Italian, I love Italian Men!!!! 5) THERE IS AN INDIAN CASINO THAT WE WANT TO GO TO- Maybe I’ll win big! O.k. Maybe I’ll not loo$e too much, but coming away with a couple of extra bucks would be nice! Other wise it’s the dollar menu at McDonalds! 6) SCRABBLE AND YATZEE! I’m bringing the travel editions but secretly hoping there won’t be any time to play! But if we do, words will be longer than 4 letters! 7) NO LAUNDRY, COOKING- Actually hubby does this on the weekends anyway! If he does laundry, I don’t bitch at him for watching sports ALL WEEKEND! I love win-win situations! 8) NO CLEANING- Is this what weekends are really for??? 9) I MIGHT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT A NEW TATTOO AND WHERE!!! I think it’s all talk, but you never know! Any suggestions? 10) I LOVE TO TRAVEL- Just get in the car and go and I haven’t done anything like this in 20 years, you know, just the girls!! What happens on the road trip, stay on the road trip! I do promise to be a good girl! ;-) 11) MY FRIEND SERIOUSLY NEEDS TO GET AWAY- She does it all! She’s a stay at home mom with 3 little boys. 4 if you count her work-a-holic husband-2 of her boys were adopted and of course their mom was a crack addict so they have some “issues”. They-my friend and her husband-are classic examples of a couple that tried for 12 years to have children, adopted the brothers then they got pregnant! Overwhelming to say the least! She really needs this! I told her the only thing she will need to worry about is not letting me get lost! But then who cares right? 12) NO SPORTS- I’m going to miss Lovie and the Boys! They will have to do it this week without me, I’ll be there in Spirit and maybe have to find a sports bar with satellite! GO BEARS!!!! 13) I WILL MISS MY COMPUTER AND MY BLOGGING FRIENDS!!! – I will be thinking of you all! Hopefully, I wont go into withdrawals and will have some great tales to tell! Maybe by next road trip, I’ll have my laptop! …. Start your list here! Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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CHAOS IN THE RESTAURANT --- or damn people control your kids!

We walked into Chili's this afternoon in anticipation of a
yummy, we don't do this too often, kind of lunch! Immediately, however, as soon as we entered the restaurant, this little cherub of a child starts acting up. OH GREAT! Can someone control this monster child? Rather than walk out and find a different place to dine. We notice that mom seems to have this little imp of a child under control. Great! We are shown to our table and I notice that "monster" baby is at it again, so mom, calmly takes "monster" out of her highchair and takes her to the restroom. One can only assume since mom has a diaper and wipes in hand, this is the reason why the "Little Angel" had been a tad cranky. Soon mom and this cute little curly haired angel reappear and attempt to be inconspicuous. NOT!! I look at hubby and we silently agree, we were very lucky, that when our children where small, we could take them places and they would behave, plus a schedualed nap was always the secret to success when it was time to take them places. And a little spank on the tushie never hurt either! We sit and try to enjoy our lunch, while we watch Monster baby and her cousin being passed off to the other adults at the table trying to calm them down... oh yeah like this was working well. We also notice other patrons in the restaurant, shaking their heads, giving these young moms "that look", like control your brats..Finally we leave. And as we pull out of the parking lot, I check my rearview mirror to see my impish, angel like, precocious, 15 month old granddaughter and her 6 month old cousin fast asleep in thier car seats. I turned and looked at my daughters and said, NEXT MCDONALDS! They quickly agreed!

FINALLY ONE THAT'S RIGHT!!!!

Your Inner European is Italian!

Passionate and colorful. You show the world what culture really is.

Who's Your Inner European?

DIRECTIONALLY CHALLENGED CHAOS

Well, dear friends, you have read my ramblings about “little S” my directionally challenged daughter. Today my friends, she is taking on a huge undertaking. She is driving to Fresno to visit her best friend, who is attending the J.C. there.

When she first told me she was driving down for a visit. My questions were:
1) With whom? She told me that it was just going to be herself.
PANIC struck as I remembered earlier that day, she couldn’t find a particular office here in town. One she’d been to 3 or 4 times already, she called me panicked and in tears that she couldn’t find it.

2) Are you taking Baby K? No was her reply, baby K was going to stay over nite with her best friends mom. :-( It made me sad to think she wasn’t going to be with us, but BF’s mom has known Little S since Little S and BF became BFs in Kindergarten. And she has been begging to baby-sit Baby K since Day 1. O.k. I will share. + She’s only a mile away. If I go into baby withdrawals I can go visit.
3) Do you know how to get there? NO, but BF said it’s a straight shot down Highway99 (never is the direction, NORTH OR SOUTH mentioned. That would throw her in a tailspin)… hum you might know what my next question was.

4) Do you know which Highway, Highway 99 is? Her reply? Yah, it’s the one I used to take when I worked at Del Taco. YEAHHHHHH!!!!

So for the next day or so I was thinking of friends that could take the ride down with her, I really didn’t want her to drive by herself on her first real road trip (even though she’s 19 with a baby. I’m still a mom) they all are working. However, I grin to myself, because I love win-win situations. I have found a friend. She has a friend whose boyfriend lives in Fresno!!!! Yeah and neither one of them own a car so, there is her riding companion! J said she would love to drive down with “Little S”! Here was my question. “Does J know how to get to Fresno?” “Well,” she replied she’d “been there once before.” normally her boyfriend takes the train up to visit. Great… I went on Map quest (I love Map quest) plugged in necessary addresses and got directions that should get her from Point A to Point B with out any complications…’cept this is my kid driving. She looked at the map and said I don’t know how to read a map…. oh, my breaking heart…. “Little S,” I said, “don’t then look at the map, read the directions.” She looked at me like I had spoken to her in a foreign language. I looked at J; she said, “No problem, we got it!” I love the confidence!

I just called, & recited to her my “I love you” and “drive carefully and do you have your AAA card” and lets not forget “have fun, but be careful” speech. She’s about ready to leave, her first really big “road trip” This is going to be good for her!! Right??????

Thirteen Things about ANN 13 THINGS THAT SCARE ME. 1. A MORNING WITHOUT BOB AND TOM!- These guys get me going in the morning! I love Chick and Christie you’re my hero! Where would my life be with out Mike Birbiglia or Auggie Smith??? I shutter to think! 2. WHEN MY BOSS CALLS ME INTO HIS OFFICE- I’ve come to realize that no matter how hard you work, how loyal you are, to Corporate America you’re just a body taking up space and when they need that space… well… SEE YA. I always like to (if possible) check his back pocket (not a bad view, I might add) to see if there is a Paycheck envelope in it! I wonder if he feels the same way when his boss calls him in his office? Probably not, he’s too cool! 3. A REALLY BAD HAIR CUT! I‘ve had them. It’s not pretty! I have very fine hair so a bad haircut is a disaster! VAIN?!!! You bet! 4. ONE OF MY GIRLS TELLING ME THEY’RE PREGNANT …AGAIN!- Two granddaughters in 10 months? I’m done. I hope they are. Next time they need to do it in the right …Old Fashioned order, you know dating, MARRIAGE then babies! I will welcome that! They both basically had been in long term dating status ( I hold out that my 12 year old will do it in the right order J) 5. MY LITTLE “S” (19) COMING TO ME TELLING ME SHE’S GOING TO MARRY “BABY DADDY” JOHNNIE..THE BIG FRICKING LOSER!!! I know it will never happen, because he has treated her and baby K so poorly, but…you know, you’re fickle at 19! Current status however, is she can’t stand him. YEAHHHHHHHHHHHH !!!!!! 6. MOVING TO IDAHO- I know Idaho is beautiful. And someday, I would love to possibly live there, but I’m not thrilled about being “uprooted” from HOME. Born and raised in Cali, All my family and friends are here. Being part of the “Sandwich” Generation. It’s necessary I stay for a while. He doesn’t seem to realize this. 7. DYING A SLOW, PAINFUL DEATH-I’m not afraid of dying, because, really what choice do I have, It’s inevitable. I’ve lived a good life and am a good person, so I’m cool with death, but would hate to watch my family deal with the care and maintenance of me. 8. MY COMPUTER TAKING A BIG DUMP! Sorry about the expression, but God, It’s my lifeline to several friends who live in other states! And I know these people wouldn’t write a letter, I’m not sure they know how… Plus I have a couple of new “Blogging buddies!” How fun is that! 9. REX GROSSMAN HAVING ANOTHER INJURY THIS FAR INTO THE SEASON! Stay healthy Rex!!!! You deserve to have a full season NOT on the DL! 10. PEOPLE COMPARING THE 2006 BEARS TO THE ’85 BEARS! Don’t, Don’t, Don’t!!!!!!!!!! Though we can’t forget the ‘85 Bears, they were awesome! They came out with a music video, even! But the’06 Bears are a team all on their own. People seem to be putting all their eggs in one basket…Don’t jinx it people! 11. CAR ACCIDENTS- I know, weird huh? 12. PEOPLE DRIVING WHILE ON CELL PHONES – leading to the afore mentioned car accidents, have you noticed most people can’t talk and drive so they concentrate on the talking part… IDIOTS! 13. THAT I HAVE RUN OUT OF SCAREY THINGS!!!! Sorry folks, I just can’t seem to think of anything else… =8-) 1…. Start your list here! Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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Music Video Codes :: MySpace Layouts

I have a friend who actually got me into this who "blogging" experience, she has a couple of blogs. One actually is called www.postmeasecret.com Not to be confused with the other "Secrets" website. She basically started this website when she realized how many people came to her to tell her things and always followed up with " Please don't tell anyone!" NO PRESSURE of course!

She decided there needed to be an outlet for these poor people to "unload" things they feel and can't just say, feel better and know that it wasn't going any farther than this site, as most entries are anonymous (if this is your wish). She has a link to the Suicide Prevention Hotline. The reward was ten-fold, several weeks ago she recieved a letter from the Suicide Prevention Hotline, thanking her for her link. And due to her link they had counseled several individuals who found them by going to her website!!!

She herself has been touched by suicide, and has seen first hand the termoil loved ones go through when someone else just can't seem to cope any longer. Kudos Kim! you done good! If you've saved just one person from the Pangs of contemplating suicide it was all worth it!

My friend, Denise and I are saying GOODBYE to it all! To the Husbands, kids, (FOR ME) Grandkids, mothers, phones, animals, and anything else! At least for a weekend! We're getting in my little SUV and heading up for the hills! I can't wait! We've decided where we're going but not necessarily what we're gonna do. ...We're gonna hit an Indian Casino or two, have a nice dinner without the pleasure of children fighting, husbands being "dorkballs" and talk about life, stuff, the plus side of being married and the plus side of being single. Lately it seems being single has lots more Plus signs!

So for the last week or so,been throwing out suggestions via e-mail. I've made remarks about us being "Thelma and Louise" I get to be the one who slept with Brad Pitt!!! Not sure whether it was T or L.. but my "Brad Pitt" will have to look alot like Robert Deniro or Al Pacino! Getting Tattoos, Getting Drunk (which will be fun.. since, I am a cheap drunk,but better a cheap drunk than just cheap, right?) and finding new husbands, and never coming back... All in the name of fun! Knowing I would never act upon my suggestions, except for maybe the tattoo, but... I digress. Denise finally emailed me back and suggested I limit my suggestions since Her husband reads her emails! I laughed. ONly cuz my hubby, probably can't wait for me to leave!

Anyway... the count down begins! I can't wait for this adventure! I can't wait to spend the weekend away from it ALL. (not that ALL is a bad place) I'm excited my friend gets away from her family and spends some time on her. I think she's forgotten who she is and only dwells on what she has become. A stressed out wife and mom of 3 little boys 2 of who are ADHD! Me? Well, I plan on a great weekend without the responsibility of others and maybe what design will be my new tattoo? OH but don't worry... I don't plan on driving off a cliff!