reportwriter

new furniture!

2007-03-28T05:49:00.000-07:00

I did it! I purchase new living room furniture. Take a look.

It is confortable too!

*giggling*

i am here

2007-03-08T05:22:00.000-08:00

I live in the present and I look forward to the future. I look forward to each new day with excitement and wonder, what will happen today. I work for hard for everything that I have in my life and I am not going to justify this to anyone. Suffice it to say, yesterday was a very hard and trying day. It was the kind of day that makes you want to pick up you life and move and never let them know where you are. Yup, yesterday was the day from hell.

Anyway, if I was not able to give you the attention you deserve, please know that it was not intentional. I am here if you need me.

I hurt myself

2007-03-03T06:21:00.000-08:00

While I enhoyed staying home from work on Thursday, I didn't enjoy hurting myself. Yes, while I was working on my sewing project, I hurt my knee. Not just a little hurt but a BIG hurt. I can hardly walk, my right knee is extremely tender (I was up all night icing my knee) and my toes on my right foot keep going numb. To make things worse, my chiropractor is out on maturnity leave and her replacement is a Nazi! I don't know what I am going to do now.

Anyway...here is a picture of my sewing project. Yes, I worked on it all day and Yes, I finished it. It will proudly hang in my hallway during the month of May.

I am thinking about working on my November and December projects as I have had them for almost 3 years now and I think maybe, just maybe I should get them done. What do you think? :)

snow day

2007-03-01T05:56:00.000-08:00

Yes, I got the call minutes before leaving my house that the office is closed today. WooHoo! I was just getting my coat on and thinking..."I can go four-wheeling in my jeep to work!". Well, I was thinking that. Anyway...

So, you know what that means....the sewing project(s) that are in my closet are going to get some attention today. I have to keep busy or I will go nuts. My movies usually keep me company by I need to be busy with my hands, so I am going to start the "May" project. For those of you who don't know, I like (in the past) to sew.

I have a custom-sized quilt wall hanging set-up in the hallway of my house. I have made previous wall hangings and I change them out with the month or the season. Well...I have more that need to be made and I have been avoiding them like the plague. But, since I am home today, guess what! I think that I will cut one of them out and maybe, just maybe, get my sewing machine out as well and start sewing it together. Now, don't get excited. These feelings might just pass me by and I will forget about the whole darn thing.

So, there you have it. This is how I am going to spend my "snow day" from work. Someone save me from myself, please!!!! :)

*giggling because I am a strange and usual person*

my goals for this year...

2007-02-25T06:51:00.000-08:00

My goal is to learn SQL to its fullest extent. In tandem, I want to learn TCL as well. This will help with my career and make me more self sufficient in my job.

Let the learning begin....

what a beautiful ending....

2007-02-23T05:20:00.000-08:00

Grey's was awesome last night. It makes me want things that I shouldn't want and yeah, that's about it.

When you finally want it and you want it the most, what do you do?

I think I need a vacation and I need it right now.

I am so confused...

2007-02-22T05:38:00.000-08:00

I have the urge to do some sewing. What does that mean? I mean, I have been avoiding my sewing projects for quite some time now. I cleaned out my closet and there they were...just waiting for me to pick them up and get them done.

Ha! I don't fall that easy. Well, maybe...

To be continued...

WHATEVER

2007-02-20T18:32:00.000-08:00

LIKE I SAID "WHATEVER!"

very sad today

2007-02-18T05:44:00.000-08:00

Where nothing goes right?

I have come to the realization that I am my own worst enemy. I think too much and I have been told that I analyze way too much. I don't know how to stop.

I feel like crawling into a hole and staying there. I guess I am not good at being a person or a partner. Is there any hope for me? I am very sad right now.

I will stop talking now.

what to do...

2007-02-15T05:52:00.000-08:00

I need a sign from God that I am doing the right thing. People that I care about are having a rough time and I don't know what to do. I am not qualified to help them or advise them on anything and I feel helpless. My heart aches for them.

Not sure why I am telling you this...but I just need to get this off my shoulders.

*heavy sigh*

I bought a toaster....

2007-02-12T15:50:00.000-08:00

I made my first piece of toast this morning. I haven't eaten toast in almost two years. It was wonderful!

*heavy Yummy sigh*

Forty-five is a great number

2007-02-05T05:40:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderful birthday.

I got to spend quality time with my sister whom I have not seen since last August.

Dinner Friday night was a goat-rodeo to say the least. We ended up at the Old Country Buffet. Need I say any more?

My sons, Adam and Brian, have spoiled me once again. Adam (and girlfriend Meridith) gave me a beautifully illustrated book about Egypt. The is called The Book of the Dead. It has translations on all of the spells and beautiful pictures. He also gave me a Bluetooth. I know, I am spoiled. Brian gave me a gift certificate to spend on what ever I am want. It just doesn't get any better than this.

Anyway...I am very fortunate to have so many wonderful people in my life. Thanks for all of the birthday wishes, birthday presents and birthday cards.

Super Bowl Sunday

2007-02-04T07:10:00.000-08:00

* * * GO BEARS * * *

enuf said!

New Word

2007-02-02T12:27:00.000-08:00

* * * BEDUNKADUNK * * *

I just found out about this word a few weeks ago and I have to say that I like. It has a nice sound and beat to it.

Try it, you might like it!

*giggling because I want to!*

*heavy Snoopy sigh*

A birthday song

2007-02-01T05:54:00.000-08:00

Compliments of the Three Stooges

Birthday Serenade

We baked you a birthday cake
If you get a tummy ache
And you moan and groan and woo
Don't forget we told you so!

p.s. If by chance it's your birthday and you get a phone call early in the morning and are serenaded with a birthday song, just know that you are extremely loved.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO EVERYONE WHO IS FORTUNATE TO HAVE A BIRTHDAY IN FEBRUARY!!!

Grey's Anatomy predictions...

2007-01-26T05:45:00.000-08:00

This show just keeps you guessing from week to week. I love it. Last night was so awesome. I am going to watch the episode again. There is a bet going on and I think that they will both say "no". That is my prediction.

Any takers out there?

1 both say "no"
2 Christina says "yes" and Cali says "no"
3 Cali says "yes" and Christina says "no"
4 both say "yes"

What is your prediction?

I think I figured it out...

2007-01-25T05:23:00.000-08:00

I have issues that I have been working on. Some of them have just been real allusive and I just couldn't put my finger on why they were bothering me. Well, I think that I have some of my answers.

Unhappiness.

I have been in such a state of unhappiness for so long that I just couldn't see it. I am changing, this I know. I am not afraid to be happy anymore. I am actually embracing it with everything that I have to give and I LIKE IT! I even said it out loud. "I am happy". I am thinking about things that I have put away, never to touch again. Who knew?

Happiness. What a wonderful place to be.

*heavy Snoopy sigh*

iPod + Beatles

2007-01-23T05:17:00.000-08:00

iPod + Beatles = a fantastic listening experience.

*heavy sigh*

Playoffs

2007-01-21T09:11:00.000-08:00

The playoff games are today. What a wonderful day to be at home watching football.

GO BEARS!!!

GO COLTS!!!

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!!!

This is what I am saying...

2007-01-18T05:17:00.000-08:00

I have been working so hard on improving who I am. I have been working on this 24/7 for the past year and a half. I think I have come very far considering the person that I am. Someone has made me question all this hard work.

I don't have to justify anything to anyone. I am going to 45 years old very soon. I have earned the right to be who I want be and to do what I want to do. Isn't there anyone out there who understands this and wants to come along? I mean, really. Why is this so flipping difficult? Are people that really afraid of everything? I have my fears, but good grief, you have to let go sometime. I have knocked down the walls to my box and I am not going to put them back up. I won't!!!!!

This editorial has been posted because of frustrations that the blogger is experiencing.

Grrrrrr!

2007-01-17T05:30:00.000-08:00

Yes, that is how I feel today. I don't understand people and I am not sure I want to anymore. This is getting to be a lot of work for something that should be so simple.

Can I please get off the world and go somewhere else?

reportwriter

San Diego

2007-01-16T05:32:00.000-08:00

Moving to San Diego looks really good right now. It was -9 degrees driving into work this morning. My mango-peach-strawberry smoothie didn't have the opportunity to melt while driving to work either.

Summer, hurry up and get here!!

:::MOVIE:::

2007-01-13T10:07:00.000-08:00

Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Is one of my absolute favorite movies. I like to pull out the classics from the 1970's on days like this. It brings back memories of when I was younger and movie technology was just getting started. **heavy sigh**

what would you...

2007-01-12T05:34:00.000-08:00

What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?

Friends...

2007-01-11T05:38:00.000-08:00

I have the best friends anyone could ever want.

Thank you!

I have a question....

2007-01-10T05:33:00.000-08:00

Is there anyone out there in this great big world who isn't psycho on all levels? I mean, can someone tell me why being psycho is the norm? Inquirying minds would like to know. Some psycho issues are okay, it can make you interesting but being completely psycho is just not working. Yes, I am frustrated. Yes, I will get over it. Is it Friday yet? I feel the need, the need for SWING DANCING!!!!!!!

Yes....

2007-01-09T05:41:00.000-08:00

That is how I feel today.

Rising Ra

2006-12-24T06:33:00.000-08:00

I am a morning person. A very early morning person, in fact. Having the opportunity to watch the sun rise is a gift in everyone's life. There is something magical in watching the day begin with the sun shining brightly in the sky. The sun beaming through the window and bouncing on my face, it symbolizes the beginning of a beautiful day and makes me feel alive. I wish everyone could feel the same as I do. I feel great and I look forward to the days getting longer and longer. I am babbling. Being happy will do that to you. :)

reportwriter

What does my middle name mean?

2006-12-24T05:45:00.000-08:00

Middle Name Meaning

L = Everyone loves you

E = Damn Good Kisser

E = Damn Good Kisser

I can live with that! Who knew?

Delete the other person's middle name and repost this with the title "what does your middle name mean?"

A : You like to drink.

B : You like people.

C : You are really silly.

D : You like to drink.

E : Damn Good Kisser

F : You are dead sexy.

G : You never let people tell you what to do.

H : You have very good personality and good looks.

I : You Are Great in bed.

J : People Adore You

K : You're wild and crazy.

L : Everyone loves you

M : loves cars.

N : You like to drink.

O : awesome kisser.

P : You are popular with all types of people.

Q : You are a hypocrite.

R : Easy to fall in love with.

S : Fucking crazy.

T : You're loyal to those you love.

U : You really like to chill.

V : You are not judge mental.

W : You are very broad minded.

X : You never let people tell you what to do.

Y : Best g/f b/f anyone could ever ask for.

Z : Always ready

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!

2006-12-23T17:32:00.000-08:00

Wishing you the best of holidays

Lindy in the Mall - Malldate 39601

2006-12-10T17:57:00.000-08:00

I attended my first Lindy in the Mall of the Christmas season. I had a wonderful time even though things didn't go as planned.

Lindy in the Mall got off to a slow start. Security moved the dancing area from in front of JC Penneys to be in front of the Barnes and Noble Bookstore near the food court. So dancing didn't get started until about 1:30 pm. There were four of us to begin with; Andy, Cliff, Nate and me. Needless to say, I had plenty of dance partners all to my self.

Do you want to dance? Sure!

My turn to dance with Nate, again.

Soon were we joined by the tall Matt Johnson, Kevin and Michael.

Linda, do you want to dance? I don't know. Kevin, do you want to dance?

Okay, let's dance.

Finding a dance partner wasn't hard. In fact, I was dancing so much I had to take a break. Then, to save the day, Sarah, Becky and Crystal showed up! Woohoo!

Look at Andy and Becky go!

Sarah and Matt, having a great time.

Crystal and Michael taking a break.

On Saturday, Ruth and I had a personal dance lesson with Nate. We decided to learn the Shimsham. Ruth knew most of the steps, but agreed that should she would like to learn them again. We practiced the dance for an hour and half. I finally felt like I knew what I was doing. Thank you, Nate. You are a wonderful dance instuctor.

Look Ruth, I am doing the Shimsham!

I had a great time dancing in the mall. Thanks to all of the guys who had to dance with me.

Photos compliments of Cliff

reportwriter

Men in Trees

2006-12-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

OMG! I am so incredibly hooked on this show! Alaska and men! And you know what else lives in Alaska, Penguins!

Thursday nights just got better. Grey's Anatomy and Men in Trees. Two of the best television shows on the same night, back to back. How ever will I be able to sleep after watching all of this?

OMG!

reportwriter

Programming language...SQL

2006-12-07T15:30:00.000-08:00

SQL. What a wonderful language. Especially for me since I write crystal reports for a living and the majority of databases that I get to connect to are SQL. Commands are a very efficient way of writing a report, accessing only the tables and fields that you need. Interesting concept. I like it. I wrote my first SQL command today and it worked! Woohoo!

Loving what I do!....:0)

reportwriter

Swingin' a Star at Club Nico

2006-12-07T05:32:00.000-08:00

Fantastic!

Awesome!

Had a great time!

Enough said.

reportwriter

Penguins!!

2006-12-07T05:28:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Beckstaordinary, I added a link to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The website has live web cams so you can see what is going any time of the day. Today, I got to watch the penguins getting breakfast. They are so cute! There must of been at least 10 of them, all running around in this little area with two people feeding them. Isn't technology wonderful!

Thanks Beckstraordinary for this wonderful link.

reportwriter

A time to remember....

2006-12-07T05:17:00.000-08:00

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii - With their number quickly dwindling, survivors of Pearl Harbor will gather Thursday one last time to honor those killed by the Japanese 65 years ago, and to mark a day that lives in infamy.

This will be their last visit to this watery grave to share stories, exchange smiles, find peace and salute their fallen friends. This, they say, will be their final farewell.

"This will be one to remember," said Mal Middlesworth, president of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. "It's going to be something that we'll cherish forever."

The survivors have met here every five years for four decades, but they're now in their 80s or 90s and are not counting on a 70th reunion. They have made every effort to report for one final roll call.

"We're like the dodo bird. We're almost extinct," said Middlesworth, now an 83-year-old retiree from Upland, Calif., but then — on Dec. 7, 1941 — an 18-year-old Marine on the USS San Francisco.

Nearly 500 survivors from across the nation were expected to make the trip to Hawaii, bringing with them 1,300 family members, numerous wheelchairs and too many haunting memories.

Memories of a shocking, two-hour aerial raid that destroyed or heavily damaged 21 ships and 320 aircraft, that killed 2,390 people and wounded 1,178 others, that plunged the United States into World War II and set in motion the events that led to atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

"I suspect not many people have thought about this, but we're witnessing history," said Daniel Martinez, chief historian at the USS Arizona Memorial. "We are seeing the passing of a generation."

____________________________________________________________

To all the men and women who served, "Thank you" just doesn't seem enough.

reportwriter

The blender episode..

2006-11-30T10:53:00.000-08:00

Kitchen appliances are the best tools to have in the kitchen. I am sure that someone else might think differently, but I really like my Kitchenaid appliance. I have a white Kitchenaid 4.5 mixer, which I have had for 9 years now. It works like a champ.

Back up to last week...

Well, I finally decided to purchase a food processor. A white Kitchenaid food processor, of course. I can't have difference brands and different colors sitting on my counter top. That just won't do. So, I go over to NFM and I walk directly to the Kitchenaid department. I love that department. Everything you could ever want all within eye level. An assortment of colors, too. But, my kitchen theme is white and therefore only white appliances will do. So, I look around and I find the food processors. They come in multiple sizes, too. I pick up the 7 cup food processor and pay for it and go home. Little did I know that I would be back in less than a week to purchase something else.

Fast forward to this week...

So, I am using my blender to make smoothies for breakfast and lunch. I have been doing this Saturday and the blender was working just fine until yesterday. I went home at lunch time to make my blueberry smoothie when all hell broke loose. I had just finished pouring all the ingredients into the blender, pushed the 'blend' button and I turn around to clean up the counter top when all of the sudden there was this loud noise. I turn back around and the blender pitcher is just about to fly off of the base and send my blueberry smoothie all over the kitchen! The area where the pitcher sits on the base was crumbling and spewing out all over the kitchen. I was able to turn the blender off in time to save the smoothie but the damage was already done. Yes, the blender committed suicide. There were chunks of blender pieces all over the kitchen. What a mess! So, what do you do when this happens? You go back to NFM!

Fast forward to last night...

I went home after work to clean up the mess some more and give the blender a proper funeral. I immediately threw it in the trash can and began to clean up what mess I had left. I ate dinner and then I was off to my Lindy Hop II lesson. After the lesson, I went back to NFM to purchase a blender. I needed to get a new one because I have two days left of the smoothie protocol left and I needed a blender to make the smoothies. Are you with me so far? Okay, so I walk directly to the Kitchaid department. I located the blenders, white of course, and then I had to decide what size to purchase. The blenders come in multiple sizes, too. After much deliberation, I chose the 56 ounce white, multi-speed blender. I was so excited to have another addition to my counter top appliances!

I arrive home with my new purchase and I decided to rearrange my counter top. I took down all the cookbooks that I own and moved them out of the kitchen for now. I didn't realize that the suicide blender episode had reached some many areas of the kitchen but I still had a mess to clean up. Afer I got everything cleaned and my appliances arranged on the counter just right, I called it a night. That was enough for me.

So, now I have three white Kitchenaid appliances in my kitchen. Thus ends my story of the blender episode.

The irony of it all...

2006-11-26T12:37:00.000-08:00

I finally make the decision to repair my Jeep by having the catalytic converter replaced. I open my mail today and guess what I find? A recall letter for the catalytic converter.

Emissions Recall E22- Reprogram the powertrain control module and inspection of the catalytic converter. DailmlerChrysler has determined that under certain conditions, some catalytic converters my be subject to mechanical degradation that causes them to rattle.

Yeah, figured that one out this summer. I just had the converter fixed less than two weeks ago because the noise was so bad I couldn't take it any more.

Question is...would I have received this letter if I had waited another two weeks? Umm, I don't think so. But, the upside of all this is that the Jeep is fixed and ready for winter.

It just figures...

Movie worth seeing this year...

2006-11-24T16:29:00.000-08:00

The Prestige

A mysterious story of two magicians whose intense rivalry leads them on a life-long battle for supremacy -- full of obsession, deceit and jealousy with dangerous and deadly consequences. From the time that they first met as young magicians on the rise, Robert Angier and Alfred Borden were competitors. However, their friendly competition evolves into a bitter rivalry making them fierce enemies-for-life and consequently jeopardizing the lives of everyone around them. Set against the backdrop of turn-of-the-century London.

This movie grabs you from the very beginning and never lets go. It keeps you guessing until the very end and even then you are left still wondering. I give this movie two thumbs-ups.

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T07:35:00.000-08:00

I want to wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

See you tomorrow night at JNO!

reportwriter

ChristmasInfo.Linda

2006-11-23T06:18:00.000-08:00

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Hot Chocolate with marshmellows

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just set them under the tree?
He wraps them in Snoopy comics paper.

3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
Colored

4. Do you hang mistletoe?
No

5. When do you put your decorations up?
Usually the day after Thanksgiving

6. What is your favorite holiday dish?
Pumpkin Pie, if that counts.

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child?
Watching "Merry Christmas Charlie Brown" with my family.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I haven't the faintest idea.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Yes, on my mother's side of the family.

10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?
Colored lights with all sorts of decorations.

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
Yes, I like the sound it makes when you walk on it.

12. Can you ice skate?
It has been a long time since I skated but I probably could.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
Very much so.

14. What's your favorite thing about the holidays?
The whole change in season thing, being able to smell it in the air.

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
Pumpkin Pie with whipped cream

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Sitting around the table listening to conversations of family members

17. What tops your tree?
A stocking

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
Silent Night by Mannheim Steamroller

20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum?
Yum!

21. What's number one on your Christmas list this year?
Clock/radio that charges my iPod from Sony

To dust or not to dust

2006-11-22T07:57:00.000-08:00

I don't mind cleaning my apartment. I don't mind doing the dishes, the laundry, cleaning the bathroom. But, there is one chore that I avoid and that is 'dusting'. I don't like it, I don't. But, there comes a point when you have to give it up and get it done. Today was the day. I broke down and dusted everything!

I feel much better now. :)

Bread-aholics Anonymous

2006-11-21T08:19:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that I like to eat bread. It is my favorite food. I adore muffins, scones, dinner rolls, crescent rolls, garlic bread. I never turn down the opportunity to eat bread. Bread is usually the first thing that I go for. But, my body has been struggling with the effects of eating bread and responding in such a way that I can no longer tolerate wheat. Yes, I am wheat intolerant. I have known this for about a year and I thought I had it under control but really it has me under control.

I have been doing some research about 'gluten-free' foods and I have decided to make the leap and stop eating foods that contain wheat. This is going to be a huge change for me. Modifying my behavior towards bread and any other food that contains wheat is going to be very hard. I tried it for about 4 months last year and the results were wonderful but I fell off the 'gluten-free' wagon and I never looked back.

I think that once I get my kitchen set up to be a 'gluten-free' environment, I should be okay. I like to bake cookies, pies and breads so this shouldn't be to hard to handle. I will need to purchase some additional kitchen appliances but what woman wouldn't want more Kitchen Aid appliances to play with. I currently have a Kitchen Aid mixer which is the best toy you could have in the kitchen.

So, instead of making this a problem, I am going to make this an opportunity to not only improve my health but to improve to my behavior towards food in general. I get the opportunity to try different foods and expand knowledge in the kitchen.

Wish me luck. I am going to need it.

Updated Driver's License

2006-11-21T08:04:00.000-08:00

My birthday is less than 90 days away and the DMV so graciously reminded me by sending me an application for my driver's license renewal. My current license expires in February 2007. They are more than happy to take my picture for the sum of $23.75, cash only please. So, I went today to get this unpleasant chore out of the way. (I am on holiday this week, so why not?) I got up, spent time making sure that my hair is presentable, like I do every morning. I get to the DMV, paperwork already filled and I get my picture taken. Needless to say, I did not like the picture. Thank goodness no one has to look at my license. The DMV should get an award for being able to take bad pictures and getting paid for it.

I don't have to go back until 2012. Woohoo!

Toga Party!

2006-11-21T06:52:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday night was Beckstraordinary's birthday Toga Party! Let's just say that I had a great time. I remember sharing my drinks, dancing and when I got home, there were Cocoa Puffs in places that they shouldn't be. Did I mention that I had a great time?

Happy Birthday Becky!

Jeeps are For Girls - Part II

2006-11-21T06:31:00.000-08:00

Okay, now for the second part. I was helping my dad move some items from his truck to my jeep. Sounds simple, right? Well, let me tell you, I can make a problem out of even the most simple of tasks. I opened the hatch on my jeep so that we could load all of the food from one vehicle to the other. I no sooner got the hatch opened and when I turned around when the hatch fell on my head. It almost knocked me off my feet. I don't need to tell you how bad that hurt. I could hardly walk afterward. My head, neck and back hurt so bad that I began to get sick to my stomach.

I decided that it was time to get the hatch lifters replaced. This was the second time this year that the hatch has feel on my head and I wasn't going to have that happen anymore.

So....I bought some new lifters, went to my dad's to change them out and guess what! I didn't know that the hatch was supposed to lift up on its own when you opened it. The jeep is after all 10 years old and since it was not new when I purchased it, I was not aware of this feature. Anyway, I helped take the old lifters off and put the new ones on and now the hatch is working like it is supposed to. Who knew something as simple as this could make me happy. :)

Jeeps Are For Girls - Part I

2006-11-20T20:22:00.000-08:00

I drive a Jeep. A 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo to be exact. It has over 170,000 miles on it and it drives like a champ. I purchased the jeep from my sister in November 2004 who drove it as a company vehicle. It was extremely well maintained and I purchased it from her when she needed to upgrade to a larger vehicle. Something to do with not enough 'butt room' in the jeep anymore. Anyway, I flew my dad out to Ohio and he drove it home for me. I am so spoiled.

Well, sometime during this summer, the jeep began to make an aweful noise every time I started it up. I can't quite explain it but lets just say it sounded bad, really bad. It had a vibration sound that was so bad that when I went thru a drive-thru, I had to shut the engine off so that I could place an order. I finally took it to the shop to have the mechanics look at it and to hear it. The good news was that it was fixable. The bad news was that it was expensive. Of course. Why would anything be cheap. They said it was the catalytic converter and that the baffles had been knocked loose. Okay. I believe you. What would I know about this kind stuff. I work on computers all day, I wouldn't know if they were telling me the truth or not. But this is not about me, it is about my jeep.

So, after driving around all summer and in to the fall with this, ummm, noise, I finally decided last week that I couldn't take it any more. I took my jeep to the shop and I told them to fix it. If I had to listen to that noise anymore I was going to have to put the jeep down. It took them less than half an hour to replace the catalytic converter. It was a very well spent half hour. Now when I fire up the jeep, it makes a most pleasant sound. The sound of a finely tuned engine, ready to take me where ever I want to go. Quitely. Well, as quitely as a jeep can be anyway.

Yeah, right...

2006-11-03T05:56:00.000-08:00

Your Famous Last Words Will Be:

"Tell them I said something."

What Will Your Famous Last Words Be?

reportwriter

How many are there???

2006-10-29T13:42:00.000-08:00

HowManyOfMe.com

There are:
326
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

It's the great Pumpkin!

2006-10-29T08:18:00.000-08:00

He's rising up out of the pumpkin patch! No, wait...it's just Snoopy, I mean the Red Baron.

Don't you just love the Halloween classics!

Birg Bird...who knew?

2006-10-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

You Are Big Bird

Talented, smart, and friendly... you're also one of the sanest people around.

You are usually feeling: Happy. From riding a unicycle to writing poetry, you have plenty of hobbies to keep you busy.

You are famous for: Being a friend to everyone. Even the grumpiest person gets along with you.

How you life your life: Joyfully. "Super. Duper. Flooper."

The Sesame Street Personality Quiz

reportwriter

A scene from It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

2006-10-25T11:03:00.000-07:00

An unsuspecting Linus has no idea what is in store for this pumpkin.

Fabulous music on my iPod...

2006-10-24T15:43:00.000-07:00

Song: I'd Like To

I'd like to put my fingers on you
I'd like to paint a picture for you
Sometimes you don't understand where I am coming from
I am just trying to make you see, I desire the simple things...

Corrine Bailey Rae

Do I need to say anymore? This is not directed at anyone, I just like the lyrics. If you have heard this song, you would understand.

Thanks Becky! ;0)

reportwriter

Count down to Halloween...

2006-10-24T10:12:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year to celebrate Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin.

Halloween is coming! Can you feel it? I think I hear chocolate calling me too! ;-)

Silly things from my sister...

2006-10-19T05:58:00.000-07:00

1. FIRST NAME? Linda

2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? I was supposed to named Brenda Lee but my mom put an end to that!

3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Tuesday

4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Not any more.

5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Turkey

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Sure!

7. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? Sort of...

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? No

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? Yes, but only with someone that I trust.

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Lucky Charms

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Yes

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Yes, but not always

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Mint Chocolate Chip

14. SHOE SIZE? 6 1/2 to 7

15. FAVORITE COLOR? Orange

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I think too much

17. WHO DO YOU MISS? Everyone

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? Would be nice but not necessary

19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Blue jeans with dark brown shoes

20. LAST THING YOU ATE? Orange scone

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Star 104.5

22. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Orange

23. FAVORITE SMELL? Linens hung out on the line to dry

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? OnionBoy

25. FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? Their smile

26. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Yes

27. FAVORITE DRINK? Fanta Orange soda, but I don't drink it any more

28. FAVORITE SPORT? Baseball, of course

29. EYE COLOR? Blue

30. HAT SIZE? Not sure

31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes, mainly for swing dancing

32. FAVORITE FOOD? Hot dinner rolls

33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDING? Both

34. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Dark brown

35. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer, but fall is my absolute favorite time of the year

36. HUGS OR KISSES? BOTH!

37. FAVORITE DESSERT? Pumpkin pie

38. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Don't know

39. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Everyone

40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Harry Potter

41. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSEPAD? A view of the earth and the space shuttle, of course

42. WHAT DID YOU WATCH LAST NIGHT ON TV? Did not turn it on

43. FAVORITE SOUNDS? A light rain

44. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles, of course

45. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? California

46. WHAT'S YOUR SPECIAL TALENT? Sewing, but I have stopped for awhile

47. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Omaha, NE

48. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? My sister

Grey's Anatomy Survey

2006-10-13T17:21:00.000-07:00

Last night's episode had some good points and some not so good points. Relationships were ending all over the place just when things were starting to get really interesting.

The beginning scene where McDreamy comes around the corner, all dressed in black with his hospital jacket on was enough for me to decide who I would pick. But, that is just me.

Given the choice, which one would you choose....

McDreamy

McSteamy

McVet

O'Malley

This is a non-scientific survey that is purely for enjoyment. Please comment on who you would pick and why.

What Scent are You?

2006-10-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

Your Scent is Lemon

Vivacious, tangy, and lively
You are one gigantic ball of energy!

What Scent Are You?

What has been going on...

2006-10-07T08:36:00.000-07:00

I have been told that I will be put in the penalty box because I haven't updated my blog in like forever, so here is what has been going on...

Since my last post, the biggest project that I have been working on at work is finally over! The long nights and weekends are finally going to slow down. The last half of September seems like a blur. I must have put in like 120 hours in a ten-day timespan and I am sure that I looked like it, too.

Even with all that going on, I did managed to get some dancing in though. The last LITP for the summer was fun. This has been the most enjoyable summer that I can remember.

Following the last LITP was the going away party for Billy and Lindsay at the LaVista Community Center. There were a lot of people there and it was great to be able to spend time with them before leaving on their adventure to London. I discovered that I am not good at playing ping pong but I am able to keep with up two toddlers whom I chased around the center for about an hour.

Vivian celebrated her 27th birthday on September 27th. There was a birthday party for her at Troy and Merinda's. The theme for her birthday was Turtles. She received an assortment of turtle gifts. Onionboy gave her the coolest turtle hat as well as some other cherished gifts. A few days later she discovered that her purse was overflowing with turtles. I wonder how that happened? Hmm?

Friday night at JNO was great as usual with Viv's birthday jam! She owned the dance floor.

On September 30th, I was in the River City Roundup Parade. There was 10 us all wearing bright orange t-shirts promoting Activate Omaha and JNO. We joined up with some people from UNO and some other volunteers and the parade began! It was a beautiful day for a parade. We got to throw t-shirts and frisbees into the crowd as well as hand out JNO free passes.

I signed up for the Lindy Hop - Level I class on Wednesday nights. I missed the first lesson but quickly got caught up at the second class. It was a full class and I can't wait to see what we learn next week. After class, I met up with Onionboy and Suzie and the others at Travato's. The band played really great music as usual. It was a great night.

I believe that brings me up to date on my posts.

Thanks to Jittercliff and Onionboy for the photos.

reportwriter

It's no secret...

2006-09-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

(I am working late, again. The late nights and weekends will not last forever....or so I hope)

That I like penguins. Even in the comic world. I don't know if any of you like to read Opus but this is my second favorite comic strip. Berkeley Breathed has mastered the power to write some of the most neurotic dialogue as I have ever seen. I love how he breaks the third wall and talks directly to the reader. The expressions on Opus' face is priceless. I appreciate how he incorporates today's issues with a sense of humor that just knocks me off my feet laughing.

I took the opportunity to get caught up on my comic reading. Opus for the past 30 days is awesome! Mel Gibson and Oprah don't stand a chance with Berkeley around.

Anyway, I just thought I would share my love of comics with you while I am waiting for my database to install so I can go to JNO!
reportwriter

Just look at all the geese

2006-09-12T18:36:00.000-07:00

I needed to take a break today. So, I decided to talk a walk around the pond that is behind the building that I work in. The geese were gracious enough to let me take some pictures of them. I saw a BIG turtle but he slipped back under the water before I could take a picture him. Enjoy!

How normal am I?

2006-09-12T18:22:00.000-07:00

I took the "How Normal Are You" test. Apparently, I am 60% normal.

Otherwise known as the normal amount of normal
You're like most people most of the time
But you've got those quirks that make you endearing
You're unique, yes... but not frighteningly so!

That's a relief. I was beginning to wonder. :-)reportwriter

Rookie on the blog site...

2006-09-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

****Warning****
Rookie at work on blog site. Please disregard any pictures of the geese. They weren't real anyway.

****Site will be back up after major reconstruction has been completed.****

Signed,

The Rookie Blogger reportwriter

! @ # $ % ^ & * ( ) _ +

2006-09-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

Husky. ' * '. Friday. Enough said.reportwriter

The Meeting Place

2006-09-11T20:25:00.000-07:00

Wonderful little coffee shop, the Meeting Place. Awesome band. Great music. Great friends. Excellent way to spend a Monday night after a rough day at work. ;-)reportwriter

beautiful drive in this morning

2006-09-08T04:59:00.000-07:00

There was a big, beautiful full moon to view on my drive into work this morning. Just thought I would share that with you in case you aren't up early like I am, driving to work. Feeling great. Pass it along! ;-) reportwriter

Dancing at Travato's

2006-09-07T05:48:00.000-07:00

I went to Travato's for the first time last night. Great Music. Great Friends. Great Time. Thanks!reportwriter

Did I really do that...

2006-09-07T05:32:00.000-07:00

Apparently, Suzie and I decided to go swimming at the Pool Party of the Year at CowTown Jamborama. Yes, we were fully clothed with the exception of shoes, socks and belts, whatever. Well, when I left, I thought I had gathered all of my clothing, etc. Not so. I have been looking everywhere for my black belt and one sock. I decided to call the hotel this morning and yes, they have my lost articles of clothing. All is right with the world now. I really like that belt. ;)reportwriter

Language of Love 101

2006-09-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

The Five Love Languages

My primary love language is probably
Physical Touch
with a secondary love language being
Quality Time.

My results pretty much say it all about me. Hugging and touching someone is be the best way to show someone that you care about them. The energy that flows between each person is amazing.

Complete set of results

Physical Touch:		11
Quality Time:		6
Acts of Service:		6
Words of Affirmation:		6
Receiving Gifts:		1

Information

Unhappiness in relationships, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. Sometimes we don't understand our partner's requirements, or even our own. We all have a "love tank" that needs to be filled in order for us to express love to others, but there are different means by which our tank can be filled, and there are different ways that we can express love to others.

Take the quiz

A movie after LITP

2006-09-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

I went to see the movie "Invincible" with some friends after LITP. The movie was great, full of inspiration. I like movies like that. Anytime you see someone who goes for what they really want and succeed, it just makes me feel all the more alive. I try to live that way every day. Anyway, the movie really gets you pumped up towards the end, the excitement of the game, guessing what is going to happen next. Well, being the hyper person that I am, this makes me even more hyper and energized. I left the theater with the feeling that I could run a couples of miles just for fun. It is really hard to skake these bursts of energy. I just hope that I can sleep tonight. Even now, my level of energy has not come down yet. Just thinking about energy makes me hyper. I guess I should stop talking about it, shouldn't I? (I can't help it, energy fascinates me, all forms.)

I wish that I could share this energy and love of life with everyone. It is a great feeling! ;-)reportwriter

Return trip from NY

2006-09-01T11:05:00.000-07:00

Well, the taxi ride from the hospital to the airport was an adventure. I was driven through a part of NY that I definitely don't want to traverse through again. I held onto the door of the taxi for dear life. Partly because I didn't recognize the route he was taking to get to the airport and partly because the surrounding area looked extremely rough. No offense to anyone in NY but I was not comfortable in this particular part of town.

The flight home was uneventful this time. We even arrived in Omaha 20 minutes early! Woo Hoo! I was able to pick up my lugguage quickly and head home. Yes, my lugguage made home! Double Woo Hoo!

It feels so good to be home. Looking forward to seeing everyone tonight.

Feeling great and I wish the same for you! ;-);-);-)!!!reportwriter

lugguage update...

2006-08-30T08:48:00.000-07:00

OMG! My lugguage was finally delivered to the hotel at 8:45 pm last night. But, the hotel did not bother to tell me this. I had to call the front desk at 9:15 pm to ask if they had received my lugguage yet. Their reply was, "Yes, it has been here for half an hour. We called your room but you did not answer". Wrong! I was in my room the entire night. Needless to say, I am grateful that I have my clothes back and New York should be grateful, too!

***Side note***
It is 11:45 am on Wednesday and I am actually getting some work done today. The software and the DLL's are starting to cooperate and work like they are suppose to. Hurray! ;-)reportwriter

Do you know where my lugguage is?

2006-08-29T17:31:00.000-07:00

It is 8:15 pm on Tuesday night and I still don't have my lugguage. The voice on the phone said that my lugguage was located at around 12:30 pm today. Delivery would be within the next six hours. Well, I am here to tell you that the voice on the phone is WRONG! Urrgggg! reportwriter

I survived CowTown Jamborama but...

2006-08-28T19:36:00.000-07:00

I barely survived getting to New York today. Both flights were delayed due to the rain, there was an ungodly awful smell on the second leg of my flight that lasted the entire 2.5 hours on the plane, my lugguage is missing, the hotel room was a cool 55 degrees and I had to call the front desk for the T.V. remote. I hope tomorrow goes a lot better or this is going to be a long week. Think good thoughts for me, eh? :-)reportwriter

the need for speed...

2006-08-20T18:52:00.000-07:00

My youngest son got a new 'used' car last week. A black Chevy, 2-door, Cavalier LS Sport, 5-speed with a sunroof. Knowing how much I like manual transmission cars, he agreed to let me take it for a drive. So, he and his two buddies come over to show off the new car and promptly gave me the keys. (I am so spoiled!) I backed the car out of the drive and we took off. I decided to take it out where I could really open up the engine and I must say, it drives very nice. I miss driving a stick. All the power underneath you, just waiting to be released! WOW! Anyway, we stopped to eat dinner and on the way back home, I drove down Miracle Hills towards 114th & Dodge. The light turns green and as I am turning to go east on Dodge, I made the tires squeal. All three of them just bust out laughing, they didn't think I could do it! I opened the engine up again and it was so smooth, what a ride! I pulled back into the drive and thanked them for letting me scare them. It was a most enjoyable evening.

p.s. Later on, my son called to tell me that one of his friends thinks I am cute. *heavy sigh* ;-) reportwriter

What have you done with my daughter....

2006-08-19T09:22:00.000-07:00

So, I went to dinner with mom last night. The conversation is going great, getting caught up on everything that has happened for the last couple of weeks. I admit, that I haven't had much time for her lately. She is retired and has a lot of time on her hands and is always wondering where I am and what I am doing. So, I filled her in on most stuff, don't want to give away everything. There are some things that you just don't share with your mother. Anyway...I was letting her know about the upcoming weekend of CowTown Jamborama and then my subsequent trip to New York, again. I explained all of the fun that I am having and how much I am learning and that I am having the time of my life. You would have to know me better to appreciate this, but she justed looked at me and replied...."What have you done with my daughter?". The look on her face was priceless. I started laughing and said that I am the new and improved version, don't you recognize me? Keeping people off balance is a wonderful thing, wouldn't you agree?

I am enjoying life and it feels so great be to alive!!!!! :)reportwriter

Changing roles in dancing...

2006-08-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

I attended the 'How to be an Excellent Lead / Follow w/ Lindsay & Billy' dance class tonight. Changing from a follower to a leader in dancing is not as easy as it looks. I have so much to learn. ;-)reportwriter

56th & Third Avenue

2006-08-10T15:51:00.000-07:00

The atmosphere on Third Avenue is completely different from Lexington, Park Avenue and Madison Avenue. The buildings are even designed differently. I went to a little irish pub called the Pig & Whistle for dinner. Great little pub and the food was fabulous.

Coming home:
Because of the recent news overseas, there is a panic on getting to the airport tomorrow. I had to reserve a car to drive me to the airport, in advance, because there is no guarantee that I will get there on time via a taxi cab. This little adventure is costing me $84. What is up with these people overseas?!?! Can't they just all get along?!?!?

Anyway...I got a lot accomplished here in NY and I am so looking forward to coming home. See you tomorrow night at JNO. ;-)reportwriter

Time Square

2006-08-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

I decided to take a break from work and spend some time enjoying New York. The weather was perfect for taking a walk so I walked down to 42nd street and Time Square this evening. What a wonderful blend of organized chaos! I love it. People walking everywhere, talking to each other or talking on their cell phones. The traffic never stops and the buildings are so beautiful. I love the architecture of each building. I took lots of pictures with my cell phone. What a wonderful toy, that cell phone. I stopped to eat dinner at Applebee's on 42nd Street between 7th and 8th street. (I know, you are probably thinking, why Applebees? It was in a great location and I was hungry) I had a great view from the second floor where I could take pictures of the building across the street. After dinner, I walked down Time Square and took more pictures and really enjoyed watching people. I then walked by the Rockerfeller Center and took pictures there too. I will learn how to get these pictures ouf of my cell phone as soon as I get back. I promise. :)reportwriter

New York, day one

2006-08-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, I made to New York. Just barely. Lets just say that I wouldn't recommend flying ATA anytime soon. First my flight was delayed getting out of Omaha and then I had to fight my way onto my connecting flight at Midway. There was lots of profanity being thrown about by someone that needed the connecting flight just as bad as I did and she let them know in no uncertain terms that it was unacceptable to make us wait until the next day to get a flight out of Chicago. I personally have never experienced flight delays of this kind and I was quite shocked at the verbal display of disgust that this woman laid on these people. Needless to say, I made it here only to find out that I was lucky to get a room even though I booked my reservation on line days earlier. What a mess. I love it. By the way, I got to take a walk through Central Park. ;-)reportwriter

Lindy Bomb at Maggie Moo's

2006-08-06T04:49:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed my first Lindy Bomb and getting dance with all of my friends. The highlight of the evening was dancing with Joe, a toddler who was absolutely fascinated by watching everyone dance. I asked him to dance and he said yes. Not knowning how to dance, he let me lead. He did alright for a little guy. I am looking forward to the next Lindy Bomb. ;-)reportwriter

Gentle rain on the window

2006-08-05T05:01:00.000-07:00

I woke up to hear the sound of rain gently tapping on my window very early this morning. I love to hear the sound of rain gently falling to the ground. It is very peaceful and relaxing. I actually fell back to sleep. What is happening to me? I never do that. Once I am up, it is all over, there is no going back to sleep. ;-)reportwriter

Crash and burn

2006-08-04T17:05:00.000-07:00

I did something this week that I have not done in over ten years. I drank a 20 oz bottle of Mountain Dew. Yes, I kid you not. For those of you who might know me, this is big. For those of you who don't know me, this is big. I am hyper enough as it is and adding fuel to the fire does not produce good results. It makes me worse.

I gave up drinking soda for Lent two years ago but I needed one this week so I went for the most powerful drink that I could handle and I took the plunge. It was great! But, with this wonderful, delightful, oral sensation of being naughty comes the bad side....crashing. And this is what happened to me today. I crashed at work so hard that I left early to come home and take nap. A two and half hour nap to be exact. I have effectively recharged my batteries and I am ready to go.

Note to self: If I ever do this again, wait for the weekend. Then I can drink all the caffeine that I want and crash at home. :)reportwriter

It is really hot...

2006-07-31T18:53:00.000-07:00

I am going to go and sit by the pool. Enjoy the evening! :-)reportwriter

Jazz on the Green

2006-07-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

Tonight was my first experience at Jazz on the Green and it was absolutely wonderful! I am so fortunate to be a part of such a great group of people and to the have opportunity to dance to such wonderful music. Isn't is great to be alive!?! :)reportwriter

Bal swing - part III

2006-07-27T05:50:00.000-07:00

I am really enjoying learning to bal-swing. Enough said. :)reportwriter

First tennis session is over

2006-07-25T20:02:00.000-07:00

I finally got to play a couple of games last night. Learned the scoring, etc. I have been told that I have a very aggressive back swing. I prefer to think that I just hit the ball too hard. I don't know. Considering that I get the ball over the net, I am calling it good. New lessons begin in August. I will be taking this class again, I need the practice!:)reportwriter

Bowling and dancing in the dark

2006-07-23T04:26:00.000-07:00

So, I went bowling with some of my friends last night. What a blast! I haven't been bowling in years. They turn the main lights off, the laser lights on and play the music really loud. I loved it! So, anyway, considering I haven't bowled in like a 100 years - I did okay. We bowled 4 games, my highest score was 135 and the lowest score was, dare I say, 85. I know, I know. But my hand got tired and that is all I am going to say about that. Well, I didn't realize that the bowling alley doubled as a dance floor, too. I had just as much fun dancing between each frame as I did bowling! Did I mention that I had a blast!?! Throw a ball, do a little dance, throw a ball, do a little dance. I had so much fun. Now comes the funny part...

My friend Andy went to bowl her turn. No biggie, she had been doing this all night, right? Well, she gets ready to throw the ball and the next thing I know, the darn thing is coming backwards as us! She picked up the wrong ball, which was too heavy for her, went to glide the ball down the alley (her words) and ended up throwing the ball the wrong way. Did I mention that it dropped really hard? We all just busted out laughing. It was an extremely funny sight to see! I told her that she was supposed to go the other way, which is down the alley, not backwards trying to kill us! I couldn't stop laughing! So, so, so then during the next game, her friend Miriam gets up to bowl her frame and she does the exact same thing! I yelled "Duck" and ran the other way. We were laughing so hard we could hardly bowl! All of this, of course, was interrupting my dance time. What a riot!

I had the highest score of everyone, which included 2 nine-year olds. But, they gave us a run for our money. Richard bowled a 122 and Matt bowled a 119. This was in the third and fourth games, too. By then, my hand was really giving up on me. Well, we finally finished bowling around 10:30 pm and I got a really great work-out. Do a little bowling, do a little dancing, do a little bowling, do a little dancing. It just doesn't get any better than that!reportwriter

Sweetness!

2006-07-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

I was driving down Dodge street when I happened to look over at a billboard. There was the sweetest message from Raymond to his wife. He was wishing her a very happy anniversary of ten years. Way to go Raymond, who ever you are! Isn't that just the sweetest thing! I thought I would share that little moment with everyone. Have a wonderful evening! :) :) :)reportwriter

Bal Swing - part deux

2006-07-20T16:29:00.000-07:00

Bal swing was great last night. There were many leaders this time and we got to learn some new steps. I hope they all show up again next week. I had a great time! I am going to practice dancing in my kitchen. And yes, it is legal, I checked.reportwriter

New York, we have lift off!

2006-07-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

As if anyone cares...it appears as though the MSMC data conversion saga may be coming to an end. I had a team of developers around my desk all day assessing the issues and I believe they have finally figured it out. Who knew!

Yeah, well anyway, so I am finally awake after not sleeping for two days and guess what? It is almost time to retire for the day. I just can't seem to get this right, can I?

So, without further notice, I am signing off for the evening to go dance in my kitchen. Don't worry though, I will be back tomorrow with more interesting news that is fit to print.:)reportwriter

Omaha Jitterbug celebrities!

2006-07-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

The morning edition of the Omaha World Herald has some Jitterbug celebrities, in full color. The stars of this photo-op are Becky Lowery, Cliff Crowell, Merinda Nothnagel and Chris Rabiola. A round of applause for everyone! :)reportwriter

in case you were wondering...

2006-07-16T17:21:00.000-07:00

It was another hot day of dancing and I wouldn't of missed it for anything. I really enjoyed the day.

I just had dinner with my son and his girlfriend. I make people nervous, this I know. Well, she bites her fingernails immediately upon seeing me and this irritates my son to no end. So, in an effort to make her feel more comfortable, I focused most of my attention on her. She is a very intelligent young women with many issues. I have my issues but that is another story in itself. But I digress...anyway, it was a very pleasant dinner and I am pleased that my son invited me to go along. She will be returning Vegas in the a.m. and this was the only time available for me to see her. I think he is really into this one.

In case you were wondering...the MSMC database is still going and going and going. I am beginning to think that maybe it won't be done until Wednesday now. So, having said that, I am free to roam about the city because there is nothing for me to do at this moment in time.reportwriter

the situation is like this...

2006-07-15T04:55:00.000-07:00

1. Well, I have been monitoring the MSMC database since 5:30 PM Thursday night and it is still running. Maybe the developers got it right this time? My guess is that it will run until Monday mid-day. It is just like watching grass grow...boring!! But when it finally finishes, there will be great data to analyze. Did I ever say the I really, really enjoy my job? I couldn't imagine doing anything else.

2. It was another extremely hot evening at dancing last night. It shouldn't be that hard to fix an conditioner, right?

3. I have decided to give up on something that I have been thinking about for a long time. I have been told that I think too much and react too slow. Well, not this time. I have given up, quickly. I don't like being that way but I have no choice. It would have been fun, too. Oh well..better luck next time, eh?

I think that is enough for now... :(reportwriter

Fatal error!

2006-07-13T05:26:00.000-07:00

I am sorry to say and sad to report that the MSMC data conversion process is still not working. As of 8:45 pm last night it was working, but when I arrived at 6:45 am this morning, there was a fatal error. It stopped working. This is not good. I was really hoping that I would have some output to analyze but I guess not, eh? Keep your fingers crossed that it will work sometime this week. Thanks! :) reportwriter

Balboa 2-Intro to Bal-Swing

2006-07-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

I just completed my first lesson in balboa swing dancing. I am really going to like learning this dance. It was a little difficult at first but then it just came together. I am excited about this! Next week should be even better. :) :) :)reportwriter

tennis lessons

2006-07-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

I have one more week of tennis lessons and I have to say that it is a good thing that I have a day job because I would not be able to support myself playing tennis. It is a fun sport but I could not make a living out of chasing a ball all over the court. Learning to dance has been much easier than learning to play tennis. :)reportwriter

reportwriter

2006-07-09T17:52:00.000-07:00

I am so glad that it is Sunday. Today was much better than yesterday. Generally, I am a very happy person.
With that, I wish everyone a very pleasant evening and an even better week. :) :)reportwriter

reportwriter

2006-07-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

You know what really bothers me...is when people can't admit that their software that they created has a bug or that they don't know how to fix it. I have been up since 6 AM trying to process data for Mount Sinai's liver program and guess what....I still haven't got it done. I have been to the office twice and look, it's 4:30 PM and I still have not started this process. I am tired of people barking at me because they don't want to get involved and get the job done. I have been on the phone with 6 people to get this fixed and I have nothing to show for other than a bad attitude and I don't like it. Is it Sunday yet? I am done working for the day and I think it's movie time. I am out of here!reportwriter

reportwriter

2006-07-04T21:06:00.000-07:00

I went to the Ralston 4th of July Parade today. It was great to see everyone in the parade from Jitterbugs! They were great! I then went to the Ralston fireworks show with my mom. I am the only person I know who can go to a fireworks show and end up having a quilt show at the same time. My mom's friend showed up and she just had to bring all the quilts she is currently working on. So, here we are, out in the field waiting for the fireworks begin and there is a quilt show going on for anyone who is interested. Whatever! Anyway...It was a great 4-day weekend. reportwriter

reportwriter

2006-07-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

I am so excited...the art gallery in my bathroom is finally coming around. I picked up my second piece of artwork that I had framed and I hung it up. Now all I need is some greenery to add some color. I have never had the opportunity to decorate before and I am starting to like it.reportwriter