Hurrah! Hurrah!

One more week until my vacation begins! I celebrated this by making a variety of priceless ornaments with the ladies from work. Expect some pictures tomorrow.

Maybe it's the weather

My work environment is pretty odd. The guy who sits in front of me started out the day with some "Ice, Ice Baby" and now we're following that up with Milli Vanilli "Blame it on the rain". I would feel better about it if it was being played loudly and we were joking. He's listening to it very quietly and whenever it gets a little too loud, he hurries to turn it down. I'm frightened for what's in store later on today. I could try to ignore it, but that's not likely. I blame my mom who FORCED me to be a people watcher/eavesdropper (I might have come up with the eavesdropping on my own).

What to do with myself.

The semester is officially over! Woo hoo!! I had a few close calls with finals. Is looking up the answer online really cheating? It definitely is when you end up leaving your online test looking for that answer and then you can't get back in. It's embarrassing when you have to email your professor to admit that you ACCIDENTALLY "navigated" away from the test to find the answer to: Which religion did the phrase "what would jesus do?" originate from. Of course I admitted to cheating on THAT question. Luckily, my honesty paid off and I was allowed to try again.

Now the problem I'm having is how to fill all my extra time during the day. Of course I work... but you know... how should I spend all that time while working... Let me show you what I've accomplished, so far.. this is just the beginning.

The giraffe measuring spoons are the greatest thing ever. They will be added to the Wish List.

A pack of hungry wolves.

Since we acquired all of these roommates/family-of-4 in our house, our food consumption and grocery bill has quadrupled. I would say it only doubled, but the 18mos old eats like a horse. I feel like he might have a potential in the world of sumo wrestling. As long as he lives with me, we will keep up with the training. Between my superb culinary skills and The Hare practicing his UFC moves, he'll be good to go.

Back to the point... I need a larger crock pot. I am currently using the teensie-weensie newlywed version. It's just not cutting it. So, E.W.L. here's another for the list!

I like this one because it's comes with a buddy!

Finally!

Spring 2009 enrollment is complete. Hooray. It took some major effort to get approval for my last class. I don't like major effort. They should know that by now. At least that step is taken care of, now I just need to wait for the tuition waiver to come through, do some research/homework and tada.... Graduate!

Hip

Hip

Hooray!

Must be time to upgrade.

The lil'niece is quite the manipulative devil. She knows how to play people. Yesterday The Hare was her target. After teasing him for a bit, she decided that she didn't want him around anymore and we could just get a new one. She pointed to my knitting needles, informed me that I could just make a new one. (I think she meant Harry Potter style, not out of yarn) As an extra bonus, she said, "This one isn't going to snore like he does, so you'll like him more!" Luckily for me, she's only 4, so we have plenty of time to make a new Hare, just in case.

At least he didn't comment on the algae forest we're growing.

The fire inspector guy did not like our fish tank. I had to rearrange wires and separate all the power strips from each other. It was a hard days work.

Luckily he didn't notice the Halloween decorations we stuffed in the rafters. That wouldn't spark a fire... right?

I thought I was in the home stretch!

GUSSETS! HOW DID I FORGET THE GUSSET? Here I was, merrily knitting my way to a stocking when I was faced with utter confusion. How did I end up with ten too many stitches on my super pretty knitting needles? I was at toe shaping, the last and final step before completion.

Don't worry five inches ago, I should have knitted a gusset. FIVE INCHES! GUSSETS! AAAGH!!

I guess I should be grateful. I did manage to undo all the necessary stitches and add in the gusset without dropping a single stitch. That's a first.

Inappropriate Behavior.

When a 3 year old replies to everything I say with, "YES SIR!!"

My toes are cold,

and my nose, and my FINGERS! I hate having cold hands.

It's almost 'winter' time here in sunny AZ and I'm dreading it. It's already down to 50 degrees when I drive to work in the morning, still with my windows down :) Then it only reaches 79, maybe 80 during the day. I have to wear my jacket nonstop now. It's just awful.

Back to my fingers... this is always the time of the year when they start to hurt again, as soon as it gets cold outside. All those stinkin massages I used to do. Bah. I couldn't possibly blame the achiness on all the maniac knitting I've been doing the past week. (I sound like I'm like 80 years old.) Oh boy, these pretty new knitting needles have been put to good use. I guess it's just my stress relief as we wait to see who will be laid off... remember to love your library folks!

In celebration of 100 posts...

Here is the Ultimate E.W.L. item:

I have always wanted a VW Beetle Convertible. For awhile I had decided I could settle for a Mini Cooper, because it would probably require less maintenance/repair. No longer can I settle. However, I would settle for the above VW and by settling I mean the convertible soft top has been replaced with a luggage rack. This pretty automobile resides in CA and is for sale! $4500 o.b.o! I sure hope we get a bonus at my job this year. Ha ha, that's funny. They just announced their HUGE budget cuts that will start happening soon. Fingers crossed it doesn't affect those of us in the library. We are the most important, don't ya know.

E.W.L.

It is time to expand on the EverydayWishList (E.W.L. for future reference). AuntieD purchased the original pretty knitting needles for my birthday and recommended the Interchangable set to be added to the list. Of course I'll listen to an E.W.L. suggestion. But why stop there. I might as well throw in the Double Pointed set as well.

I have been using my new super pretty knitting needles, which means I didn't get to display them on the wall. If the collection continues to grow then I just might. I hope everyone is getting excited for their knitted Christmas gifts! And I mean everyone!

Lots to report on...

Halloween was a success at work. This first picture represents our office. It's pretty accurate.

These are a few lovely examples of what our student workers are capable of.

Once we got that pesky holiday out of the way, it was time to celebrate my birthday. It was pretty low key. Had dinner at a friends house on Saturday. She obviously loves me, because I was surprised with a cheesecake. She even let me take all the leftovers home! mmmm! On my actual birthday, there was a barbeque at Grandpa Hare's house for my niece. Isn't it so rude that I have to share my day. I'm totally over it. Not spiteful one bit. Can't you tell? We had lots of fun with all the kids and more cake.

I'm grateful to all the B.W.L. participants. If you didn't take the opportunity, don't worry I'm going to keep the wish list going. It was such a success that I don't dare stop now.

UNBELIEVABLE!

The student workers know how to play us already and it's only midterm. The amount of actual work they do is very little. The rest of the time is spent doing homework or bizarre activities. As a department, we've been working on a group project, "Jack-o-lantern". It turned out pretty well and is going to be entered in a contest with the other departments.

Yesterday one student asked if we could have another day to do individual pumpkin carving. Why? Because she didn't have time to do this at home. She wants to be paid to carve her pumpkin. I have to admit, they're smart. I said, no way! Which is a first. Normally I will agree to pretty much anything.

While I was at lunch today, they got to my supervisor. Guess what he brought back from the store... pumpkins for each of them. Not only did he give the green light, he paid for them, after I said no work pumpkin carving. These girls are good.

Here's a little something special for you!

Today is lil'sis' 24th birthday. What an OLD FART! Don't worry about how old that makes me next week. Oh boy... Since I'm a super slacker and your present is on its way, I hope this beautiful 'paint project' makes up for it. Love ya and don't worry about all the torture you've put me through these last 24 years, I'm sure you'll make up for it someday.

AuntieD is dominating!

I didn't know I was such a mooch. The B.W.L. idea was genius. Today I received the best present ever, a set of super pretty knitting needles. The problem is that they are so pretty I'm afraid to use them. I'm going to display them like some people display their sword collections over the fireplace. Use your imagination, because I'm too tired to find an example. Just know that it will be fantastic!

Progressing pretty quickly.

I found a how to learn Spanish for idiots book on netlibrary today. So far, I've mastered my vowels and consonants. Oh boy, that's probably enough for this year. Maybe I'll start working on the pronouns in 2009. I'm just getting prepped for the Rosetta Stone software that should be arriving in.. oh about.. 9-10 days.

Might as well add this too.

I found this on etsy today. There is a larger print which I like a lot, but these notecards are only $10. I love them lots and lots. Aren't they cute?

A biggie!

I've been noticing that being able to speak Spanish is a 'highly desirable' if not 'required' qualification to have on a resume here in Arizona. I wouldn't mind that if I could speak Spanish. This brings us to the B.W.L.

I realize this version is a little pricey, so I will accept substitutions. Can you really place a price on my education and future success? I didn't think so.

Even if I had any I don't know that I would share them.

I noticed today that I had been 'tagged' to share 7 Quirks about myself. I don't know about this whole tagging situation. It's hard thinking of these things, not just one, seven. Whew. Then I'm supposed to tell other people to do it too. I'm going to take this a different direction and ask you to let me know what my quirks are, because I'm not sure I have any. So... good luck and be honest. You will not hurt my feelings, maybe! hee hee

Making plans.

I'm not sure if I knew this before, but today I realized my birthday shares the same date as "The Day of the Dead" in Mexico. Sounds pretty awesome to me. I have decided to celebrate this appropriately by sleeping all day and accomplishing nothing. Game on!

Usually I have to share my birthday with my niece's b-day party, but this year it will be a week later. Hooray, that means two cakes! The Costco cake is all I asked for this year and I'm super excited about it.

First things first, we have to get the lil'sis'Tortoise's b-day over with and out of the way. Any suggestions on gifts for the spoiled one? (I'm not spoiled one bit! Alright I am, but only with love and support.) Once this is over with the true party can begin!

Avoidance

I have become so skilled at procrastination. Why do my homework when I can look at sweaters online? I should just add 'sweaters' to the B.W.L., because there are way too many cute ones and I can't narrow down my choices. It's going to be a hard days work.

Hot chocolate season is here!

They say that we may have a few warm days later this week, but I think summer is officially over for 2008. That means I'm cold today. It dropped to 50 last night and we might have a high of 75. I have started drinking hot chocolate at work and even brought an extra pair of socks, because I can't get rid of this 'chill' I'm experiencing. The horrors of fall/winter in Arizona. This brought up a B.W.L. idea.

It's been about 5 years since I've purchased a coat. This might be the year to add one to my meager wardrobe collection. This one is so super duper cute. If anyone sees a less expensive/clearance version, buy it up! I know how all you snow people feel bad for the cold Arizona people like me. At least I still get to see the sun every single day. I'm not rubbing it in, I'm just grateful and stating it out loud.

P.S. I will probably need a matching pair of gloves. Just a thought.

I know how to react in a crisis situation.

If I wake up before The Hare, I try to be quiet in the morning. Actually no. That's not always true, it depends if I like him or not that morning. I guess he was alright today, because I got dressed in the dark. Normally once I get to work, I take off my shoes and spend the day in just socks. If it wasn't so stinking cold in the building I could wear my flipflops. I live in Arizona, I should be able to enjoy warm toes while at work. Oh boy, the issues I deal with. Back to the point, my sock has a hole in the toe. Since I didn't want "the girls"/student workers to make fun of me, I mended it quickly. Thank you stapler!

Less than a month away!

I don't have much time left to add to the B.W.L., so I'm going for a biggie. This wouldn't even be necessary if someone had loaned their slightly, underused swing to me for a few days/maybe forever. Selfish! :)

This is the key to my success in school. I used to go The Grandpa Hare's home to swing and study, but it's about to go through the window. There has been plenty of whining and pleading to the uncle's, but they claim to be too busy to fix it. Humph. We'll see about that when it's time for the holiday baking to begin.

In a way, this would be an investment. Well for me that is. It would save me money by no longer having to visit Starbucks and purchase Passion Tea Lemonade every weekend in order to get my homework done.

Can't you just imagine me in my beautiful swing, sipping away at homemade lemonade, amidst the beautiful dirt, concrete chips and weed landscaping I'm working with. Relaxation!

P.S. 77 days left until MY VACATION!

P.S.#2 The above mentioned swing is on sale. hint hint.

I'm not cut out for it.

It's pathetic that I am making my own "Countdown to Christmas Vacation Holiday Chain" because I can't get the student workers to do it. I'm supposed to be the supervisor who sits back and watches as they do silly mundane tasks. Can you tell I'm a pushover? Now just imagine how much I let them get away with. Everyone wants to work for me! I'm the perfect boss for lazy college students.

Look how pretty!

These are definitely going on the B.W.L., there's so many now I can't remember what number it is.

By the way, The Hare is working hard to get Dec.26-31 off work. Keep your fingers crossed. I'll be free after the 25th... hooray. hip. hip. hooray. It's barely October and I'm already counting down the days to Christmas. I might have the student workers make a chain out of contstruction paper today, just to do it right.

Dilemma

In order to graduate in the spring I have to take one class during winter intersession. Here are my options:

Intro to Parenting- is that really going to ever happen?
Personal Growth in Human Relationships
Empirical Political Inquiry-this one is a requirement, but I can probably do it in the Spring.
Arizona History or
Bob Marley: Reggae and Resistance

I have narrowed it down to the two. Which one sounds like more fun and less work?

We survived!

I forgot to let you know we made it home safely from the "Great Adventure of 2008". It was full of fun and excitement. Horses, snakes, highway potty breaks, 2 am sugar highs... a great time indeed!

Word of the day: Substantialiscious (noun). The weight of something when you weigh it with your tongue. I found this definition inside my Snickers wrapper today and I wanted to double check and make sure they weren't making things up. Well, they sure are! The closest word I could find was sub·stan·tial·ism –noun Philosophy. the doctrine that substantial noumena exist as a basis for phenomena. I don't know if it's sleep deprivation, but that doesn't even make sense. I prefer the made-up Snickers one, simple and to the point- plus when you're reading a Snickers definition you know you just ate something super yummy. They're right when they say, "SNICKERS SATISFIES".

Butch the Wicked!

That's my Official Pirate name. Today is Talk Like A Pirate Day and this is where I found my Official Name. What better way to start the Great Adventure of 2008 than with a pirate name and mine fits-I think. Here are the names for the rest of the passengers:

The Hare- Dirty Mike Whitfurrows
Roommate/S.I.L.- Dagger Wilson
Twin#1- Sven The Slovenly
Twin#2- Captain Keelhauler
BabyD.- Cutlass Jim Breakman

I think we're off to a great start.

Riding in style

You can stop worrying now, the windows are up on the truck. Fingers crossed that they last that way the long drive ahead. The Hare managed this somehow with the use of a couple strategically placed screwdrivers. I haven't seen it yet, but at this point I don't really care how it looks. I still think that it would have been super cool to tape plastic in them and vacation in true style.

2-0

Guess who won Fantasy Football again... ME! Not The Hare! he he he. My superstar team skated by with a win 81-80. Whew, it was a close one.

Why you should always answer, "Just because"

My cutesy pie 3 year old niece thinks that I only have one friend and that her name is Molly. This is totally untrue, because I'm pretty sure that I might have two friends. Anyway, a long time ago I mentioned that the Pregnant Bagpiper would be having a little girl, Molly, and we were super excited about it. Everytime we played telephone, it would be Molly calling, or my pretend princess Molly, or Molly, Molly, Molly.

The other day, I introduced the niece to a few pictures of Molly and she was so happy that we were going to visit her this weekend. Hold on now... WE? Somehow she had made the connection to "The Great Adventure of 2008" and meeting Molly. Just great, now there is a heartbroken little girl who doesn't get to meet Molly all because The Hare won't ride in the back of the truck. Rude-huh!

I'm officially on a path to success

Today is the day I began a rubberband ball. I feel as if my desk job is permanent and official. For those of you who can't figure out how to make one on your own, I provided a link to instructions.

Pre-event defense

The countdown begins.

We are one week from departure for the "Great Adventure of 2008". This starts out with a truck that has windows in the always open position. This hasn't been a problem here in warm, sunny AZ. We might get a little chilly driving north through the mountains. hmm. Add 3 adults and 3 little boys who haven't been trained for road trips. Then we will be driving 12 hours, overnight. Oh boy, feel the excitement!

We have decided to start preparations now, because between the 3 adults we're likely to forget a lot of things. Our list keeps growing and everytime I'm at the store, I buy more stickers, books, dinosaurs, crackers, granola and fruit snacks. I really should wait on all these things, because The Hare ends up playing with or eating everything as soon as I bring it in the house. I've started hiding the bags in the closets. It's kind of like Easter/Christmas.

I hope the people on the other end of this "Great Adventure" have started their preparations, because there's no turning back now! ha ha ha.

Don't worry, I bought a fresh supply of earplugs. Whew.

Wahoo

Guess who won their first fantasy football game.... ME!!! I admit, most of the credit goes to Marion Barber. Guess who didn't win... THE HARE!!! Ha Ha Ha. That's right. In the end, I may not be the ultimate champion, but Game 1 goes to The Tortoise.

Back to my pile of schoolwork...

Turtle, turtle...

This shop was featured on etsy today and I love this card. If I ever get around to writing a childrens book, I would love to learn how to do pop ups to go with it. Even if my books are created for home use only. :)

One of my many favorite colors.

I love teacups and saucers, but I don't own a teapot yet. This would fulfill that need/want. I love the color, but I wish it didn't cost so much. I guess that's what happens when it's homemade and pretty.

I really don't have the space in my kitchen to display such an attractive item right now. At least it has made it to the list and maybe next year I'll have the perfect spot for a teapot.

Spaghetti Squash Tuesday

This has been one of our new addtions to Tuesday nights. It has to be this night, because that's when The Hare has his part-time evening job and doesn't eat at home. He refuses to try my DELICIOUS creations. (He might have a few reasons for this behavior. hmph.)

The first attempt was horrible, I can't remember now if I already wrote about it. Sorry if you're hearing this story twice. Sister-in-law/roommate bought a squash for us to try, but got the wrong kind. It had a gross, stinky, buttery smell that I refused to touch after cooking.

Attempt #2 was quite a success. I just substituted the squash for noodles. I even cooked zucchini and added that. Look what a healthy little family we are.

Attempt #3 is in the oven right now. I went out on a limb and made Aunt Caroline's lasagna with the squash! I hope karma is on my side. Fingers crossed, because I'm looking forward to tonight.

p.s. We actually like it when The Hare doesn't like what we cook, because then it's more for us!!

Going out with a bang.

I think the monsoons are starting to slow down, but last week sure was wonderful. We had some of the best storms I've ever seen. Here's a few shots of The Hare's hard work. :) I forgot to center a few, so pretend like you see all the lightening... it's there... probably off to the left.

Don't worry, I'm still here.

It has been a busy week, with school, work, rain, internet issues, on and on. I'm pretty excited about my classes this semester, they shouldn't be too much work, just lots of reading. I can handle that. Work hasn't been any busier, but I was able to miss a day due to rain. My excuse was that since my truck windows are still stuck in the down position, I didn't want to drive. They took it pretty well as usual. THE INTERNET... my house is cursed. I'm positive this is the problem. The internet provider sent us a new modem thingamajig, I hooked it up and all was well... for a few hours. Then it started misbehaving just like it used to. The crazy internet lady on the phone last night had me doing all sorts of things with plugging/unplugging phones, switching jacks, might as well unplug the TV while you're at it. AAGH. They're supposed to call me back today with a cure for my internet illness. We will see. Of course I'm still thinking positive thoughts about this, because it has to work tonight-OR ELSE!

I had a heebie-jeebie moment at work today. I have the habit of walking around in my socks, shoes left beneath my desk. When I slipped them back on, I noted a rock type of feeling under my arch. I dumped it out and it was a BIG, BLACK, YUCKY BEETLE! Ewwwy, yucky, ewwy, blah. I guess that's what I get for acting as if I'm at home while at work. So now that I've learned my lesson, shoes go on the desk.

A freezer full of possibilities!

I finally bought a new Costco membership yesterday. Quite an exciting event for my household. I have now run into a problem with storage. I need more shelves in my "pretend-pantry" and additional freezer space. I have created many reasons to rationalize this item for the B.W.L. #8, but I'll save you the torture and just let you know it's an option for the upcoming birthday.

He's the crazy person standing in the yard by the flag pole in hopes of the lightening striking really close.

We have enjoyed quite a few storms this year in our neck of the woods/desert. I love them, but not like The Hare does. I think he's oblivious to the danger involved when standing in the desert taking pictures in the pouring rain. Hmm... oh well. As long as he's enjoying himself. These are his Top 3 Favorite Shots. So far. He's anticipating some more for the future.

If he had his way, my blog would consist of only his lightening pictures. Yes, yes, I already suggested that he start his own. He scoffed at that silly idea. Work! In his spare time! Judging by what this post is about, you already know his answer to suggestion. This really is better for me, because I only have to throw in a few pictures now and then. Otherwise I would have to deal with 2 blogs. Yech.




My favorite is the first picture, I LOVE palm trees. I would like to see how well he would do with a better camera. I guess that will be a future Christmas gift. Just so you know, it's not going on my B.W.L. He'll have to start his own this time.

I LOVE back-to-school shopping!

I bought myself a back-to-school gift today. I wear out bags/purses/wallets/planners at an alarming rate. I sucked it up and decided I better spend more than what I usually spend on a Target clearance bag. This thing has the potential to hold all the usual crap (planner, homework, school books, regular book or two, yarn, and maybe someday a laptop). It was on sale and just plain lovely.

Why can't it be called "Middle F"

B.W.L.#7 kind of backfired on me. I know I said I would like to give a few lessons, but that was meant for the little ones. When I got home, The Hare had the keyboard out and was waiting for me. We downloaded a few beginner songs and got started. This is the only time his stubborn personality is a bonus, he was determined to master Mexican Hat Dance and Hot Cross Buns. After an hour of having to deal with his arguments of how he thought things should be, he was a success with his first two songs. He expects to learn a few more tonight. Hopefully once he is able to work on this alone, I can download my own music.

B.W.L.#7

Jack Johnson Sheet Music

Since I've moved to Arizona, I haven't really played the piano as much as I used to. It's probably time that I brushed up on my skills. I would like to teach a few of the nephews/niece lessons when they are ready. This gives me a few years to get my act together. I thought this would be the perfect way to get things started up again. Curious George is one of my favorite soundtracks and this music is one of the FEW things that will stop the 3 year old twins in their tracks.

P.S. In addition to this, I wouldn't mind replacing the keyboard with the actual thing!!

Another "The Office" topic: LIBRARIES!

I did not write this. It's from the Creed Thoughts blog on nbc.com "The Office"

August 14, 09:23 AM
Creed Thoughts

I spend a lot of time in the library. Don’t get me wrong; I’m not there for the books. Books are for table balancing and throwing at birds. I go for the air conditioning and the smell. Libraries smell good. It almost makes me want to like books, but not quite. Anyway, there’re a lot of kids at the library -- maybe it’s summer school or something – and these kids talk like I’ve never heard before. It’s like a secret street language and I want in. They say stuff like “that dude got clowned” and “he got that swag when he walks.” I want to know what the heck* these kids are talking about, but they won’t tell me. I’ve tried going up to the kids to talk about the phrases, but they get kind of freaked out by me. Just wait until they need an ID – then we’ll see who’s running away and telling the librarians.
Anyway, those jerks won’t tell me anything, so I’m making up my own words and phrases. This is my street dictionary and I’m not even charging for it. Just don’t tell the kids in the library, okay?

Keep it bowlin’ – Everyone likes bowling, so this is a phrase for when you want to tell someone to stay positive. For example, if someone tells you they lost their job, you can just tell them to keep it bowlin’ and that’ll cheer them up.

Ploppers – This means bad. “Did you see that movie last night? It was ploppers.”

Horribly obese – I’m taking this one from the library kids. They say things are fat all the time, so I took it a step further. In this case, it means the most beautiful ever. If a foxy dame comes walking in, you can call her horribly obese. I think it might take some time before it catches on, so use this one with caution because some broads may not have heard it yet and could take it the wrong way.

Willy fingers – Perhaps the hardest to explain, but you get willy fingers when you really want to fight someone. “When my boss was yelling at me, I really started getting willy fingers.” Your fingers start moving real fast and itching because they want to hit something – that’s the willy fingers.

Those kids are going to regret not letting me in on their lingo. My slang’s going to take over the nation and there’s nothing those idiots can do to stop it. Keep it bowlin’, people.

*I had to do some editing!

My bottle is filled with Alka-Seltzer and the fizz is overflowing.

Fridays at work are always torture. First, it's almost the weekend. Time moves in slow motion. Second, the bizarre, amount of crazy topics reaches a new height. I don't mind the randomness, but they regurgitate it throughout the day. Over and over and over. This feeling I get reminds me of Blades of Glory and one of my favorite quotes from Chazz.

"Yeah, mind-bottling. You know, when things are so crazy it gets your thoughts all trapped, like in a bottle?"

This is what happens to my mind after listening to these guys. When I actually have to try and think... not much happens. Oh well. I guess this is the price I pay for tuition waivers and a stress free job. This is as stressful as it gets. Fizzy.

B.W.L. #6

I am pretty sure that this product was created for my house. Between the dog, rabbits and 3 messy nephews we get a lot of "stuff" on the floor. Thanks to Swiffer my problems may be solved. They even have coupons!

HOORAY!

Update on the B.W.L. #5, my favorite sister ever has sent me her gently used IPOD with songs already loaded.

HOORAY!

In case you couldn't tell, it's been a great day.

Proceed with caution!

As you can see, here is the first "doll" from the AMIGURUMI book that Auntie D. gave me. I realize it's very frightening. I think it's the combination of ghost white hair and beady eyes. The eyes were a last minute item that the Hare recycled from a stuffed bear. The little niece was getting a bit impatient. She let me know that it was to be her doll when finished. Of course I said okay. I'm determined to win the Favorite Aunt award.

You have to admit that it looks just like the "painting" I provided last week. I have already started my first puppet, who will be named Cowboy Joe.

B.W.L. #5

It's pretty normal for me to be behind the times. Forget about the washbasin and clothesline I've been using for the past year, it's an IPOD that I desire. There hasn't really been a need for one before. Music isn't a huge deal for me, but I now have a completely silent work environment. It's pretty bizarre. I'm too self-conscious to turn on the speakers at my desk, because I know they wouldn't all agree with my taste. Which gives me another item for the B.W.L. Don't worry I will accept 'gently used' for this gift item. An added bonus would be a song list, because it's hard work trying to remember what I like. I trust you to know what I will enjoy.

Maybe inappropriate behavior...

Is it a bad thing to go around work, shifting objects slightly off center? What if I just move the tape dispenser from its home of five years to a new spot two inches to the left? How about if I put all the book carts at an angle that's not exactly 90 degrees to the wall?

I am having way too much fun with this!! If you have any other suggestions for me, please share. Sometimes it's awesome to have a co-worker with a little bit of OCD.

My first work of art in the land of Crazy Dolls/Animals

I wanted to share an example of the fun I've been having this past week. This is a representation of my first doll. It was supposed to be a gray cat like creature, but I don't think I'm going to sew the ears on. It would take away from the Pregnant Bagpiper style hair (c. 2002?) You might notice that one leg is thicker than the other. That's pretty accurate. I am trying to represent all types of people out there and I don't want to damage future self-esteems by creating what we view as a 'perfect' little baby doll. The truth is that I lost count and just kept going. One more little problem is that I haven't finished both legs and I don't want to, so one of them might end at the knee. Maybe I'll sew up some crutches instead. I did start my first puppet last night... a shark.

P.S. My favorite part is that her skirt folds up to show off some black panties. Woo woo!

Flipping to the back, to read the end.

The Hare’s family is all big fans of The Twilight Zone. It drives me nuts. I don’t like the mystery and suspense. Of course I want to know what happened, but I’m too impatient to wait around for the answer. Just give me the who, what, where, when and how, so I can get on with my day.

I’ve been hearing the phrase, “It felt like I was in The Twilight Zone” many times this week. It makes me grateful that I’m not; I don’t want to be in any of those crazy Twilight situations. Yech. This inspired one of my MANY lists. Normally I write my lists on old check-out cards we find in the books, but today it’s going online, you lucky alligator, you.

-I’m so happy I live in sunny Arizona and not The Twilight Zone.
-We own a house, which means I don’t have to search, apply, pay deposits, pack, move and clean at the end of every lease.
-I am exposed to so many different people and I love learning about other cultures.
-I have the opportunity to attend an awesomely diverse school that provides me with a variety of opportunities. The downside: someday I will have to make up my mind.
-I get to work in the LIBRARY at this awesome school.
-I have always been encouraged by my parents and I have the opportunity to provide encouragement for others daily. I love seeing how this brightens someone’s day. I can’t imagine having been raised without it and I wish others would practice this more.
-I’m grateful that I can step back and analyze a situation, decide whether or not it matters to me and if it’s worth my time.
-I love all those crazy people out there I call family and friends.

If I were writing this on a check-out card, I would have run out of room, so that’s all for now. Lucky for you, it wasn’t my daily, boring to-do list. I need to figure out a way to make it home with those and my shopping lists; I always lose it between my car and the store. Someone in the parking lot is probably concerned about the quantity of Hot Pockets my family consumes.

Quit the worrying!

"Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities have crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day. You shall begin it serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense." Emerson.

My goal this week is to use "blunders and absurdities" in as many conversations as possible. These are the types of goals that get me through the workday.

I may have Indecisive Career Disorder, nah I'm just a spaz.

I've been enjoying a few "librarian" blogs lately. It's making me consider getting a teaching certificate. Yech. Depending on how things go after grad school, I act as if I'm already attending-he he, I might just throw in some more classes in order to work in a school. I keep thinking SUMMER OFF!!! NO WORK!!! Then I remember DEVIL CHILDREN!!! TOUCHING MY BOOKS!!! What's a girl to do? Luckily I have a few years to think about it.

In the meantime, I'm considering another career. A creator of puppets. I was going to say puppet master, but that made me think of creepy movies. I've been having so much fun with the AMIGURUMI book that Auntie D. bought me, that now I'm going to make puppets. The design ideas are taking over my life. I've already been scouring the clearance bins for outlandish yarns, googly eyes, and other goodies that would complete my works of art. As soon as I put one of these ideas to yarn, I'll do a photo shoot. Maybe not, they'll probably be your Christmas presents for the next ten years and I don't want to ruin the surprise.

I will consider requests.

Pretty bird...

I saw this interesting birdcage on Etsy, but I wasn't sure if you could actually raise one in this thingamajig. I would most likely destroy the cage and the animal. I'm sorry, but I'm an animal killer by nature. I've never killed one on purpose, but if I had I wouldn't be willing the share the details anyway.

I also found this cute little bird made out of paper. I can hardly sew material in a straight line without ripping it, I certainly couldn't sew with paper. Can't you just imagine walking into my tick-free home (fingers crossed/many prayers) and seeing a cute wire bird cage with a pretty little bird in it. Then you would think, "Wow, look how grown up she is. She can keep an animal alive without the help of The Hare." Then I could laugh to myself "Ha, ha, fooled you!"

I guess if any of our current pets ever pass on, I can just sew up replacements. This is such a relief.

From profanity to bloodsuckers

Yesterday did not improve. We had noticed a few days ago that our dog had a tick. At the time we didn't think too much about it. The situation changed drastically when I found a little bloodsucker attached to my calf. Hmm... imagine my excitement over that one. This spurred a frenzy of cleaning throughout the house. I would find one here or there and these were all small. No big deal, until I come to the rug partly under our bed where the larger bloodsuckers were hiding.

Enter slight panic attack/meltdown/Hare coming home from work to me losing my mind. He ended up going to the store to buy a variety of tick killing items, while I threw away everything on the floor, tore out the ugly brown carpet from the bathroom, put tons of clothes in laundry bags, the list goes on. This lasted until the wee hours in the morning. Once I did try to sleep, I couldn't because my crazy imagination felt them crawling all over me. I have never been so happy to go to work in the morning. I considered driving here last night to sleep on the couch in our breakroom. Hopefully the purchased items do their job before the kids come home from their dad's house this weekend. I would definitely have a panic attack seeing one in their hair. Yuck!

Plethora of profanity

If there were a day I needed to mentally rinse my mouth out with soap, it's today! Note the keyword, mentally... I didn't cuss out loud. The Hare wouldn't know what to do with competition in that category. Back on topic:

This morning was not my favorite. First of all I was planning to go to work an hour early to make up for being 3 hours late last week. The lateness was due to one of my MANY flat tire incidents, this time a truck tire. Bah.

No worries because I'm an early bird and was raring to go. After I filled up at the gas station, I accidentally hit the knob for 4LO. Hmm, no big deal just turn it back to normal. WRONG! Wouldn't turn back, well the knob would turn, but not the important mechanical part (transmission?) of it. I drove the whole way to work going 30mph. This was on the backroad that has a speed limit of 55. Awesome.

Once I got to work, I promptly whipped out my future librarian skills aka Google. Simple solution to my predicament. Put the truck in Neutral, then turn the knob. Duh, like I was supposed to know that. I had tried every other combination of tricks, just not this one. Bah.

Other than that, things are going great. You just might want to avoid me until the black thunderstorm cloud leaves my presence. The sarcasm might sting today. That's your only warning. ;)

Super frogs and monster moths

That's what I remember about my weekend. This time of year seems to bring out all the creepy creatures and reptiles. Yesterday I had a lizard run over my toe. It was like he didn't even see it there. Come on!

The Hare has proven himself useful once again. Today he learned how to change brake pads, thank you Harley Uncle. I bet the neighbors will be excited about that. They won't have to hear me coming down the street anymore.

I just remembered something super exciting! (This is how my brain works lately. Hum de humming along and then BAM, I remember something. It's great fun, unless I'm trying to think.) My mama's sister is the first B.W.L. participant. She sent this

You all better get excited about an receiving an ugly, homemade stuffed animal for Christmas. There's a good chance that one will be headed your way.

Today I got a paper cut. It hurts pretty bad.

Ms.Tortoise lineup...

Fantasy Football Championship here I come!!

Hasselbeck, Matt QB
Barber, Marion RB
Lewis, Jamal RB
Edwards, Braylon WR
Marshall, Brandon WR
Williams, Roy WR
Heap, Todd TE
Crosby, Mason K
Titans DEFENSE

Reserves:
Garcia, Jeff QB
Stewart, Jonathon RB
Porter, Jerry WR
Watson, Benjamin TE
Eagles DEFENSE

Grandpa Hare and I are determined to not let the Hare win. I know everyone will support me in this effort, so feel free to offer fantastic advice at anytime.

Coming to you from the Tortoise Archives

I was struggling with what to "paint" today, so I decided to feature some artwork from the Pregnant Bagpiper. I hope you enjoy her talent as much as I have.

The End. Hopefully she'll consider creating more. It's not like she's doing anything besides waiting around for that little girl to arrive.

P.S. I bet you'll never guess who the main character is... that's right, it's ME!

B.W.L. #4

I found this on Etsy and I love it! That's my name 'girl' and it's green with bubbly, flower like/maybe fish things. Just all around good stuff.


On the topic of 'girl', we had our niece (3years, blond, adorable, obviously spends way too much time around adults and not enough time with other kids + she has my name in a roundabout way and was born on my birthday) spend the night on Sunday. She's a little on the spoiled side, but you can't help indulging her. Her latest thing is to say 'girl' at the end of every sentence. All night long I heard, "Good job girl!", "I love ya girl!", and on and on. She's the greatest. I'm going to try to slowly adopt her without anyone realizing it. I wish we had room in the truck for her on the upcoming family visit, but we can only hold so many car seats. I guess we could tie the Hare to the roof, or the hitch. Although, I probably shouldn't terrorize the family with too many "guests".

Game on!

This is my first year taking part in a Fantasy Football league. I joined one with the Hare's grandpa and even though the Hare is already in another, he joined too. Now there's definitely some competition. He doesn't even know what's coming. I feel like a card shark. ha ha ha.

The draft is this Thursday, so I'm going to have to figure out what I want to wager real quick. I'll keep you updated on my weekly wins. Wish me luck!

The triple threat

Since my internet connection has been questionable on the weekends, I decided to post multiple times to make up for it. Don't you feel loved? You should. It's been hard work thinking about 3 different posts. The tile collection can be credited to a wonderful craigslist ad that said "FREE TILE! Come and get it." Needless to say, we did. Now we're waiting for an ad stating "Free grout". One day when we have time in the next few years, I'll have new bathroom floors. I'm excited.

The school situation is improving, I might get to register today. Of course the Hare's class is already full, so he'll probably have to wait until next semester to finish up. Looks like this Tortoise just might win the race!

Sharing the love

I was feeling a little greedy and selfish as I looked at the B.W.L. the other day. As my way of giving back, I'm letting the Hare put an item on the list. Since it's on my list, it should be given on my birthday. Anyway, of course he chose a super expensive item. The Hare doesn't mess around with his presents. This is a picture of his uncles latest toy and it's pretty awesome. I admit that I don't mind sharing the B.W.L. for this one. I don't remember all the important features of this Harley, but that it's a Harley and it's loud and I want to take a trip to visit the family on one of these. In the meantime, he can start saving his pennies.

Happy Belated 4th of July!

I just realized today that I hadn't posted any of our July 4th party pictures. I realize these aren't really up to par with you "camera snobs" out there, but it's the best we can do for the moment.

It started out as a beautiful day, but as the fireworks drew near, the weather became unpredictable. The wind and threat of lightening almost cancelled the event. Since we've living in a questionable part of town, they made the wise choice to just go through with it and put the firefighters on red alert.

This was the best shot that the Hare captured. We had a lot of fun sharing the excitement with the 'terrible twins'. Of course the Hare is a child hog when it comes to having fun. He doesn't really like to share, unless they stink. That's when I get to play.

The monsoon we were hoping for came the next night. The Hare was able to risk his life in order to catch some lightening shots. Considering the type of camera he uses, I'm pretty impressed he actually got this one and that it didn't kill him. I guess I have to keep waiting on the life insurance... maybe next time.

I'M KIDDING!

Looks like I may be moving...

First off, I should have created a KEY for this picture. There is a lot of explaining to do. This is my street in sunny AZ. The "quiet families" are people we rarely see, but are polite. The "brown dots" (not race specific, it's a variety) on the main street are people, usually under the influence of some drug. The only problem we have with this group is that they typically walk in the middle of the street at night. I have ALMOST hit someone once. The "nice family" has grass in the backyard and I'm jealous of their landscaping. The "nice couple/live plants" is just that. Their plants live and flourish. I don't understand it at all. Once again... jealousy. Notice that the "Hare family" has black spots, take a guess... DEAD PLANTS. I'm at fault. I don't have an excuse, other than I'm lazy. Which most of you already know about me. For the most part, we have really enjoyed living here. All the neighbors have been really nice, quiet and we all leave each other alone.

Enter "CRAZY!", (black lines=garbage) up until a few weeks ago they were another "quiet family", who sometimes sat outside for a smoke. They moved and now we don't know who this replacement is. They obviously didn't buy the house and I can't imagine renting to them. There's a couple and an older man. I think the woman works, but the men stay home all day, getting into who knows what kind of shenanigans. Yesterday I noticed the younger man run down the street. A few minutes later, the older man followed at a much slower shuffle. Then a police car came from the main road, stopped in front of MY house and reversed back the way he came. This happened again. The next time I looked out the window, there were 3 police cars next door. The "CRAZY" woman was outside on the phone, crying and throwing some sort of tantrum. Since I couldn't tell what was going on, I sat back down on the couch. Ten minutes later....

PRISONER TRANSPORT VAN

Are you kidding me? What's going on in my neighborhood? The other "nice family" neighbors started to get curious at this point, but I'm too shy to go get the gossip. The Hare is in charge of that tonight. I want the normal neighbors to come home. Why did they leave and let these people take over our nice, quiet, dead-end street? Hopefully things calm down and the delusional street walkers don't start detouring our way.