tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81023058795023328662024-03-13T22:18:35.172-07:00My life...in a nutshell.Random confessions, ramblings, and everyday life...angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-80756402528685084982012-11-10T14:35:00.002-08:002012-11-10T14:36:59.656-08:00Coolest Cottage, EVER!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay, so it's been nearly a year since I blogged. As usual, I've been busy. "Doing what," you say? We'll save that for a different day. For now, let's remember to learn from mistakes, forgive yourself (and others) quickly, and celebrate success! I have a few REALLY cool things to share. Today, I want to share a look at my new space. Check it out!!!</div>
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Clearly, this is my rad living room. Well, part of it anyhow. Also, this is the most comfortable couch on the planet. </div>
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My super rad coffee table made of a piece of driftwood from the Arkansas River topped with fossilized stone. </div>
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And here's the another part of my living room! It's super loooong, so it's hard to get the entire space in one picture. This area I intend to use as kind of an office type area. Or maybe not. Who knows?</div>
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So, the kitchen and living room are divided by this cute little wall. It blocks the sunlight, but whatever. I like living in cave. :)</div>
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Yes, you would be correct in assuming this is the kitchen. It has a shit ton of storage space. So much that I can't even use it all! My washer and dryer are just to the left of the cabinets. I think you can see part of the washer in this picture. How cool, a cottage with a washer and dryer? </div>
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MINE.</div>
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I only looked at this space once before signing the lease. I saw it and immediately knew I had to have it. It was perfect for me!!! Somehow, I managed to completely look over the shelf that was already installed that works perfectly for my stainless steel pots and pans. </div>
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LUCKY!!!!</div>
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This is part of my bedroom. I stalked the shit out of this comforter at Target for about 3 months. A few weeks back, before I even moved, I found it on clearance!!! Marked down from $75.00 to $20.00!! I snagged it up! And wouldn't you know, I already had these gorgeous purple drapes from a previous house in Indianapolis. It looks gorgeous!! </div>
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It also doesn't hurt that the walls are a gorgeous green (one of my favorite colors!!!). It's a total Ange Cave. Comfy, cute, and cozy. Don't mind the mismatched rug....</div>
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One of the best things about my new place, is the amount of build in storage. This space fits ALL of my cds and gives me room to put decorations on the top. Although, I'm not much for knick-knack type of stuff, so for now it just has a few concert memorabilia, a few pictures, and some other random things. </div>
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Again, another view of my bedroom and it's massive amounts of storage space. This closet stretches the entire length of my bedroom!! There's a ton of stuff in there!!!</div>
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This is the space that separates the kitchen and living room from my bedroom and bathroom. </div>
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Did I mention there's a ton of storage in my new space? Cause there totally is. These drawers are functioning as my linen closet and dresser right now. It works until I can find a dresser I actually want. Oh look, there's the back door, sneaking into the picture...</div>
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My bathroom is tiny!! But, thank goodness for lots of storage!!!</div>
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The door and the shelving behind it kind of blocks the bathroom a bit, so it's hard to get a picture of the whole thing. Also, those shower doors? NO. I'm going to ask if I can take them out. I think it'll really open the space up, which is desirable!</div>
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Last but not least, this is my new key hook! I always want to have a space (the same space) where I keep my keys, so I will always know where they are. The other day, I visited World Market and found this little guy. It's perfect...and know I'll always know where my keys are. </div>
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That's just an intro to my space. I also have a private patio AND there's a shared communal area where I can try my hand at growing veggies next year. I can't wait!!! I've met all of my neighbors now, except one. I'm sure it won't take long and I'll catch him or her to introduce myself. It's such a great feeling to have my own space. </div>
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Cheers to celebrating success!!!!</div>
angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-44943572299016997622011-11-27T18:14:00.001-08:002011-11-27T18:58:29.672-08:00That damn pile of rocks<div style="text-align: center;">
Shortly after we moved here, I noticed a smelly old pile of rocks at the top of our road. I took note of them and went about my business. However, for whatever reason, the rocks soon got the best of me and I had to stop and take a closer look. Here is what I saw. </div>
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<b>Exhibit A:</b></div>
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So again, I went on about my life, minding my own bees waxes. Eventually though, these damn rocks got the best of me and I had to, just had to kick them over!!! Why did I feel the need to kick them over? Who knows?!?! I'm weird and I do what I want. However, to my surprise, about two weeks ago I noticed the damn pile was back!!!</div>
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<b>Exhibit B </b></div>
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Screw you, stupid person building the rock pile back. Grrrr......AGH! What was I to do??? Knock it over again, naturally.</div>
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<b>Exhibit C</b></div>
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I thought for sure this would get my message across, but no. No such luck. The scumbag built the rock pile back up, yet again. </div>
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<b>Exhibit D</b></div>
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I've had enough of this maniacal rock pile. This is my answer for this stupid ol', smelly ol', crusty ol' pile of rocks that haunts me.</div>
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<b>Exhibit E </b></div>
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Instead of kicking over the rock pile, I decided I would leave the builder with a little message of "NO." Maybe <i>THIS</i> will get my point across!!!!</div>
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<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-79222046238927796152011-11-07T16:30:00.003-08:002011-11-07T16:30:56.548-08:00Old Man MosesOur little old man Moses wasn't doing so well all weekend. He had a few ups, but mostly it was all down. He stopped eating and drinking, was really weak, and seemed confused about what he was doing, even for simple things like going outside to potty. This morning we woke up and things hadn't improved. We made the decision that we would NOT allow him to suffer. So, our Stoney boy took his last breath around 9:15 this morning. It was a very bittersweet moment.Stone was the most gentle & calm dog you could every meet. He just had a way of burrowing into your soul and stealing your heart. Rest in peace, old man. We love you.<br />
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<br />angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-4413017928868731192011-08-28T19:30:00.003-07:002011-08-28T19:44:50.363-07:00Cacti<div style="text-align: center;">One of the downsides of moving to California is that I had to get rid of ALL of my houseplants. Total bummer, because I had quite a few of them. However, all that no plant having crap came to an end this week. I found a great seller to buy plants from at the <a href="http://www.downtownchico.com/survey">Thursday Night Market</a> in Chico. This week I came home with not one, not two, not three, but FOUR cacti!!! I don't know why in the hell I picked them, I've never been able to care for them properly. If you've never tried to care for a cactus, it's pretty tough. Don't judge or be all hateful until you try it. They're really delicate and are super picky about their pH.
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<br />Today, we went down to Chico to do some shopping and I was determined to find new pots for my new prickly friends. It took us going to S E V E N, that's right SEVEN different stores to find pots that were awesome enough for me. Whew, glad that's over! I brought the new pots home and here are the final results...
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rWEfqRU221k/Tlr8W6maitI/AAAAAAAAAqI/ZB2MRg1a3D0/s1600/Cactus%2B3.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rWEfqRU221k/Tlr8W6maitI/AAAAAAAAAqI/ZB2MRg1a3D0/s400/Cactus%2B3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646102553480039122" border="0" /></a>A view from the top, never to be seen again...since they now live in a giant bay window that's about SEVEN feet taller than I am.
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<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kFi3ZUCKjhQ/Tlr8WsKo6dI/AAAAAAAAAp4/RkLT-6ICqFQ/s1600/Cactus%2B1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kFi3ZUCKjhQ/Tlr8WsKo6dI/AAAAAAAAAp4/RkLT-6ICqFQ/s400/Cactus%2B1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646102549605444050" border="0" /></a>I bought a few different varieties, for color and wishful thinking.
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JpuWZ_HCZW4/Tlr8W2Fg_MI/AAAAAAAAAqA/izu2v6cgcsw/s1600/Cactus%2B2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JpuWZ_HCZW4/Tlr8W2Fg_MI/AAAAAAAAAqA/izu2v6cgcsw/s400/Cactus%2B2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646102552268307650" border="0" /></a>Yay for having plants again!!!
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<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-9413514351901973952011-08-07T13:09:00.005-07:002011-08-07T14:26:47.876-07:0013 things, idiosyncracies, and such13 things you never knew (and possibly didn't want to know, but now you are stuck reading) about me.<br /><br /><ol><li>I'm a total foodie, but I LOVE ramen noodles. They are so salty and delicious and simple.In fact, I just ate some. YUM.</li><li>Moving out of Indiana was one of the most stressful, happy, scary, exciting, fear-inducing, awesome things I've ever done. (And I'm happy I did it, would do it again in a heartbeat).</li><li>I love tap water. In a pilsner glass with ice.<br /></li><li>I can rarely stay awake for a movie if I'm watching it at home. They bore me to death.</li><li>I cry easily, especially over weddings and births.<br /></li><li>My average length in any career field is ten years.<br /></li><li>I'd rather have the windows open than deal with air conditioning in my truck, no matter what the temperature is.<br /></li><li>Hair freaks me out and makes me want to scream. It's so gross.<br /></li><li>I curl my eyelashes and refuse to EVER put makeup on my face.<br /></li><li>I always set my alarm clock to an odd number (i.e. 7:27am).</li><li>It's difficult to keep my attention, yet not difficult to tell you've completely lost me.<br /></li><li>I'd rather swim in a lake or creek than a swimming pool.<br /></li><li>I love Desperate Housewives and am super sad this is the final season.<br /></li></ol>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-53843459922993109942011-08-02T09:52:00.006-07:002011-08-02T10:07:05.166-07:00Poison wha?????<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SM9gXaL977k/Tjgs840ffeI/AAAAAAAAApw/wTj7eLjKuRQ/s1600/Poison%2Boak%2Bleg.htm"><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Poison oak is our new friend. And by friend, I mean the kind you NEVER want to see, you dread their visit, and basically....wait. Not friend. Not even close to a friend.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">ENEMY!!!!!</span><br /><br />Yeah, that's what I mean. Poison oak is our new enemy, and it is MISERABLE. Exhibit one:<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SM9gXaL977k/Tjgs840ffeI/AAAAAAAAApw/wTj7eLjKuRQ/s1600/Poison%2Boak%2Bleg.htm"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SM9gXaL977k/Tjgs840ffeI/AAAAAAAAApw/wTj7eLjKuRQ/s400/Poison%2Boak%2Bleg.htm" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636304358210502114" border="0" /></a><br />That's the lower portion of my left leg. This patch is BY FAR the worst that I have. I'm thankful it's on my leg, cause anywhere above my hips and I start to have a SERIOUS melt down. Once, I was completely covered from my feet to my ears (and everywhere in between) with poison ivy and thought I would commit suicide before it went away. Two rounds of steroids, an oral prescription for atarax, two topical ointments and almost four weeks later it all went away. Thank Jebus.<br /><br />Anyhow, I digress. So, now I have "the enemy" on both of my legs, my stomach, my right wrist, and two places on my back. Lindsay however, is having a hell of a time with it. She had to hike down into the canyon the other day to save one of our dogs who had wondered off, and she is slowly but surely showing new spots everyday. Her newest discovery was this morning, under her boob. YIKES!!!!<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-41618545799526843832011-07-31T16:23:00.003-07:002011-07-31T16:31:06.570-07:00Movin' on up!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvwT_LKiC84/TjXljyCX0bI/AAAAAAAAApg/7H54pIIofdk/s1600/first%2Bcache.jpg"><br /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Well, it's been six months since I blogged. WHAT?!?!?! I've been busy!!!! So since it would be impossible for me to catch anyone up (like the three people that read this don't already know about my life!!!!), I will aspire to do better.<br /><br />In the meantime, you should all know that we moved! I'd like to say it went off without a hitch, but I cannot do that. It was an effing disaster and I don't ever want to drive across the country again. EVER. Especially not with three spazzy-ass dogs.<br /><br />Anywhoodles, here Lindsay and I are today...finding out first geocache in the Chico area!<br /></div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvwT_LKiC84/TjXljyCX0bI/AAAAAAAAApg/7H54pIIofdk/s1600/first%2Bcache.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvwT_LKiC84/TjXljyCX0bI/AAAAAAAAApg/7H54pIIofdk/s400/first%2Bcache.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635662911613948338" border="0" /></a>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-3524211790715816462011-01-12T18:28:00.005-08:002011-01-12T18:45:50.253-08:00A note on returning the favor<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TS5mAzPxClI/AAAAAAAAApQ/zRh1DNe3bnI/s1600/filling-out-the-form-sq.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TS5mAzPxClI/AAAAAAAAApQ/zRh1DNe3bnI/s400/filling-out-the-form-sq.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561494753791511122" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Dear Spanish Professor,<br /><br />I know it's only been two days since we started this new class, but I wanted to share a little something with you. Now, keep in mind this may not be true for all of your students, however it is very true for me. I really just have one question for you...so here goes.<br /><br />Why do you think it's acceptable to ask me to fill out a ridiculous form at the beginning of the semester telling you random tidbits about myself (i.e. my job, how many years I've taken Spanish, what I plan to do with my life, etc) and then not do the same in return???<br /><br />I find you very interesting. You ran for U.S. Senate and have already talked in depth about your world travels (including Africa, Europe, and Latin America), yet when I asked you what you do you simply replied "soy un professor" (I am a professor).<br /><br />I find it a little ridiculous that you get to know about me, but I don't get to know about you. Yea, yea...I know what you're thinking "I'm the professor and can do what I want." I don't disagree with that. I just think it's only fair to return the favor to your students and let them know a little bit about yourself.<br /><br />Keep in mind that if you didn't require me to fill out your questionnaire, you certainly would not be reading this right now.<br /><br />Whatever, I'll just google you, Mr. I-Ran-For-US-Senate-Man.<br /><br /><br />Signed,<br /><br />Su estudianteangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-77913811319961908782011-01-09T07:21:00.002-08:002011-01-09T07:38:58.774-08:00Spring 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TSnWaeaqaEI/AAAAAAAAApI/F36C2IUMCCc/s1600/smart-kid.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 363px; height: 311px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TSnWaeaqaEI/AAAAAAAAApI/F36C2IUMCCc/s400/smart-kid.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560210965295425602" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Today is the last day of winter break. It's bittersweet, as it usually tends to be. This has been a great break. I've been surrounded by both my and Lindsay's families. We've had a lot of good times, eaten way too much food, and relaxed way too much. Now, back to reality.<br /><br />I'm happy to start the semester. My brain feels like it turns to a big bowl of oatmeal when it isn't being engaged and when my ideals and thoughts aren't being challenged one a daily basis. As always, the beginning of the semester always makes me feel inspired, excited to learn, and proud to be a college student who can bring a new twist to pretty much any topic.<br /><br />Here's the lineup for this semester and a few thoughts about them individually:<br /></div><br /><ul><li>Introduction to Women's Studies-This is a no brainer. I love women, especially one's that stand up for themselves. As an added bonus, Mercy (one of the docs I work for) will be presenting to my class. I know celebrities. Duh.<br /></li></ul><ul><li>Introduction to Religious Studies-I don't know jack shit about religion, so I figured this would be a good way to dabble in the many different world religions.<br /></li></ul><ul><li>Intensive Spanish 2-I love learning Spanish. Spanish kicks ass. The first semester of this class was pretty easy, and I'm told the second half is more difficult. I say bring it.</li></ul>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-91180120990068147252011-01-06T09:01:00.003-08:002011-01-06T10:27:26.537-08:00In my bloodMusic just seems to be one thing I am always current with. I'm not a movie person (at all) and until recently (a year-ish) I didn't read much either. However, music is something I am always exploring. It inspires, motivates, and moves me.<br /><br />There really isn't any genre I despise, but I'm not big on country, head-banging metal/screamer rock, or anything that is completely foul-mouthed (some cursing is fine, but every other word is ridiculous).<br /><br />My favorite genres: pretty much anything that was not mentioned above. No, really. Gimme a good beat I'm ready to rock/sway/dance/hold up my lighter and sing. ;)<br /><br /><br />I wanted to share a few of my favorite artist/groups and a few new discoveries I have made. First and foremost, my favorites, ones I consider classic to me:<br /><br /><ol><li><a href="http://www.girlyman.com/">Girlyman</a>: best music discovery of the 21st century. These guys opened for <a href="http://www.indigogirls.com/home.html">The Indigo Girls </a>at a show I went to in Bloomington in 2003. I immediately fell in love with them and have introduced many other fortunate souls since. #Alltimefavorite#<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.raylamontagne.com/us/home"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Ray Lamontagne</span></a>: give him to me solo or with The Pariah Dogs, IDC. #smoothsound#<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.toriamos.com/">Tori Amos</a>: my friend Joanie introduced me to Tori when I was 12. Her lyrics are sometimes dangerous, her piano skills amazing, and her voice is chilling. Love her. Big thanks to Joanie for that. #realbigtalent#<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.indigogirls.com/"></a><a href="http://www.indigogirls.com/home.html">Indigo Girls</a>: another introduction complimentary of Joanie. Seriously some kick ass tunes. #feelgoodmusic#<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.scissorsisters.com/">Scissor Sisters</a>: raunchy, dancey, and electronic. #YUM#</li><li><a href="http://www.ledzeppelin.com/">Led Zeppelin</a>: I don't even have to say anything else. #Classicrock#<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.trainline.com"></a><a href="http://www.trainline.com/us/home">Train</a>: some of the best beats and lyrics I've ever heard. #favoritemalegroup#</li><li><a href="http://www.janetjackson.com/">Janet Jackson</a>: a great artist with so much diversity in her music. Hello, Velvet Rope?!?! #rocksmyfaceoff#</li><li><a href="http://www.coldplay.com/">Coldplay</a>: captured me with "Yellow" in 2000. Loved them since. #foralloccassions#</li><li><a href="http://www.madonna.com/">Madonna</a>: the queen. Edgy. Daring. Hot. #shesthebeesknees#</li></ol><br />Artists that I have recently discovered that I adore:<br /><br /><ol><li>Awolnation: a weird mix of electronics and rock. Sounds great to me. </li><li>Elisa: thanks to SYTYCD I found her a couple years ago.<br /></li><li>Muse: always a good beat. Easy to listen to.<br /></li><li>Eric Hutchinson: reminds me of Train and Coldplay, except solo.<br /></li><li>Imogen Heap: a crazy mix of vocals and electronics to keep me interested.</li><li>The Avett Brothers: mellow sounds.</li><li>Tiesto: electronic inspiration.</li><li>Matt Natanson: unmistakable voice that I love.</li><li>Kings of Leon: who doesn't like these guys? Srsly.</li><li>Florence+The Machine: this lady can sing like whoa!</li></ol><br />Last, but certainly not least, I feel that pop, R&B, and rap deserve their own category. I do love a lot of this music, but ultimately as you can see my favorites are the mellow, folky, and electronic types. However, I didn't want to contaminate my other favs with this nonsense, so they get their own little piece of my bloggy-blog-blog:<br /><br /><ol><li>Lady GaGa</li><li>T.I.<br /></li><li>Drake</li><li>Akon</li><li>Nicki Minaj</li><li>Sean Kingston</li><li>Eminem</li><li>Ludacris</li><li>Jamie Foxx</li><li>Katy Perry</li><li>Waka Flocka Fame</li><li>Iyaz</li><li>Taio Cruz</li><li>Rihanna</li><li>Beyonce</li><li>Trey Songz</li><li>P!nk</li><li>Nelly</li><li>Septemeber</li><li>Cascada</li></ol>Alright, so basically if you ever ride in my truck with me, expect to hear a wide variety of music!!angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-91110435148202919732010-10-19T15:27:00.001-07:002010-10-19T15:27:03.945-07:00Just a quick note on being surrounded by FFA teens from Utah. I just overheard "he's never had a bagel, I've never had eggplant." I thought I was sheltered as a teen. Geesh.angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-78521662474139562862010-10-13T18:44:00.004-07:002010-10-13T19:22:47.152-07:00Enlightenment and encouragement...and no I don't mean spiritual<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TLZpQ_SHeZI/AAAAAAAAAo8/XkIAIIYKgMs/s1600/enlightenment-2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 312px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TLZpQ_SHeZI/AAAAAAAAAo8/XkIAIIYKgMs/s400/enlightenment-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527721333230107026" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br />I've been incredibly busy recently, not to mention I had some sort of disgusting flu/sickness for almost a week, but I'm still around and better than ever.<br /><br />This week marks the midterm point for the semester. Anyone who's ever attended college, has a kid in college, or doesn't live in a cave knows what that means: exams. Woopety-poopety. :) Thus far this semester, I'm doing really well. It feels great to be successful not only academically, but also on a personal level. Asked if I could do this a year or two ago, I would have laughed in your face. Go me for getting my shit together. I'll also give credit where it's due. Without Lindsay I would not be here. She's the one who ultimately inspired me to go back to school. She's the one who for the first time in my life, gave me the confidence to do this and do it WELL. So, thanks babe.<br /><br />Anyhow, so enlightenment. I still have to remind myself sometimes what the hell I am doing with this whole I'm-going-to-become-an-academic-at-thirty-years-old thing. Now that I am in it, am doing well, and am completely committed to it the number of kicks in the ass I have to give myself are shrinking, mostly because I'm good at being a student so my confidence is pretty much at an all time high.<br /><br />However, that doesn't mean I don't like to be reminded by others. Everyone likes a nice ego stroke every once in a while. I got mine tonight. BONUS! Reward.<br /><br />I finished rocking the socks off of my archaeology exam and decided to mention a few things to my professor. He's a graduate student studying archaeology (duh) AND cultural anthropology, which if you don't know by now is my obsession. My few comments turned into us talking for an hour and a half. I addressed a few of my concerns with him about "taking a different path", not having an extensive volunteer/study abroad history(many anthro majors claim this), what the hell am I going to do with an anthro degree, and any recommendations he may have for me. These are the issues that I debate in my head pretty much everyday, so this was a perfect opportunity for me to talk with someone in my intended field of study.<br /><br />After talking with him, I've realized quite a few things. Number one is that everyone makes their own path in life. I'm always (still) so concerned that I'm doing this the wrong way or that I should have taken a more traditional path, right out of high school and off to college route.<br />Lindsay is constantly reassuring me about this, and after talking with my professor it is sinking in a little more. I think this will all just take time to adjust to, but I'm on my way.<br /><br />The other major point I really took from our conversation, is that being an anthropologist will open so many doors for me. It's such a broad spectrum of life to study, so the possibilities really are endless, it's all up to me where I want to take it from here.<br /><br />I guess it all boils down to the lack of outside AND personal motivation that I had for the first 28 years of my life. No one in my immediate family, and only one person from my extended family has ever graduated from college. No one ever encouraged me as a child or pressured me to go to college. I didn't really have much of a support system growing up. It really was all about surviving and working to pay the bills. Don't get me wrong, I think if that's what people want to do then by all means, go for it. It takes all kinds to make the world operate. However, I think that people, parents especially need to take the initiative to support their children and teach them that there are many options in the world.<br /><br />Anyhow, just feeling enlightened and encouraged and thought I would share. It was really great to talk to someone in my own field about their experiences.<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-3931793659881363212010-09-03T17:57:00.005-07:002010-09-03T18:24:26.674-07:00All at once...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TIGfQJNGg6I/AAAAAAAAAo0/LL3nnzCbPzw/s1600/cloggeddrainpipe10.jpg"><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TIGZjpIL1QI/AAAAAAAAAos/hk-GUtzxGYg/s1600/plumbing+disaster.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TIGZjpIL1QI/AAAAAAAAAos/hk-GUtzxGYg/s400/plumbing+disaster.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512856256492852482" border="0" /></a><br />I like swimming, but not in my house. Too bad for me, cause that's what's been going on over here at casa de Ange and Lindsay for the past few days. It all started just a few days ago when I came home from work and Brian had mentioned that the rug in the kitchen was soaking wet when he came home. We assumed it was one of the dogs and maybe they had an accident during the day. We cleaned it up and I went on a cleaning spree vacuuming, mopping, doing dishes, and laundry. Just about the time I get everything all nice and clean, disaster strikes again: the kitchen is soaked again.<br /><br />S O A K E D<br /><br />I didn't know what the hell was going on so I pulled everything out from underneath the sink (which was like 764, 091, 259 containers of cleaning stuff with about .2 ounces in each one) to investigate. Keep in mind, I'm no plumber. All I know is that there was about two inches of water standing under the sink so I soaked it up, cleaned up the floor again (since whatever was leaking made another huge mess) and called it a night. What the heck else was I to do?<br /><br />Fast forward to tonight. There was some laundry going when I noticed that once again the floor in the kitchen was soaked. UGH, welcome to frustration central. I soaked it all up and decided to get to the bottom of the situation at hand. Brain had one more load of clothes to wash so I of course encouraged him to do so (he clearly knows about this ongoing dilemma) and I also thought that maybe it was linked to either the dishwasher, washing machine, shower, or toilet. So pretty much any plumbing in the house could be the culprit, but I had an inkling about the washer.<br /><br />Big surprise!! Who was right?? ME.<br /><br />Something goes terribly wrong when the washer drains. It (obviously) makes a mess in the kitchen, water backs up in the tub, and the toilet makes a gurgling sound. Eww. The first thing I can think of to do (other than freak the eff out) is to call my dad. He has an extensive history in fixing houses/maintenance since he owns fifteen of them. All I hear is something about if I can't find the sewer line outside the house, it's going to cost eight skamillion dollars to dig up our yard in order to find said pipe and install something or another. About this point, panic sets in. Like real panic. Next, I call Laurie and Dale (Lindsay's mom and step-dad) to ask if they know any plumbers. Yes, they live in California but also they have owned at least two homes in the Indianapolis area and also have a lot of home repair experience.<br /><br />Thank God, Dale knows where the sewer line is outside of the house, so I can calm down about a backhoe showing up sometime in the near future. Whew! Anyhow, they rack their brains and end up recommending that I call <a href="http://www.rotorooter.com/indianapolis/">Roto Rooter</a> or some other company. I looked up RR online and they have great reviews, so I gave them a call. The lady I spoke with was super friendly. They could have gotten out here tonight between 830p-1130 but since I have to work tomorrow I decided to pass on that. She helped me make an appointment for Tuesday and mentioned that it "sounds like" there is a main pipe clogged. Let's hope this is the case.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TIGfQJNGg6I/AAAAAAAAAo0/LL3nnzCbPzw/s1600/cloggeddrainpipe10.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TIGfQJNGg6I/AAAAAAAAAo0/LL3nnzCbPzw/s400/cloggeddrainpipe10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512862518575793058" border="0" /></a><br />I imagine this is something similar to how our pipes will look. GROSS.<br />Keep your fingers crossed that this is not nearly as disastrous as it could be.<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-75001387619104112942010-08-24T19:27:00.005-07:002010-08-24T19:38:47.334-07:00Ouch!<div style="text-align: center;">Guitar classes should come with a disclaimer to the student:<br /><br />WARNING: your fingertips may bleed from practicing with this instrument, therefore hindering your ability (and willingness) to <span style="font-style: italic;">actually</span> play this amazing piece of art. Hang in there though, cause it's gonna happen. Until then though, this is what your fingers may <span style="font-style: italic;">feel</span> like:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/THSBWRQ-GdI/AAAAAAAAAoU/hizckBu_vHA/s1600/callus.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/THSBWRQ-GdI/AAAAAAAAAoU/hizckBu_vHA/s400/callus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509170463772645842" border="0" /></a>And when you finally do achieve some awesome calluses, people are going to notice (or at least they better):<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/THSBrP3Y_jI/AAAAAAAAAoc/G8gha-CXQtQ/s1600/2330362405_1e83426868.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 276px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/THSBrP3Y_jI/AAAAAAAAAoc/G8gha-CXQtQ/s400/2330362405_1e83426868.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509170824174173746" border="0" /></a><br />"He noticed my fingers, and he asked me if I would play."-Ani Difranco<br /><br /><br /><br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-38770977500562584472010-08-09T04:40:00.004-07:002010-08-22T18:14:35.719-07:00Back to school!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/THHLY4FU9ZI/AAAAAAAAAoM/6U_Kp5GYG-Q/s1600/2502.gif"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 321px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/THHLY4FU9ZI/AAAAAAAAAoM/6U_Kp5GYG-Q/s400/2502.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508407447482856850" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Tomorrow is the big day, people! Back to school, at a new school, taking classes I WANT to take! I'm feeling really good about it and just hope that I can keep my level of optimism and motivation at a maximum. Nerd classes I'm taking:<br /><br /></div><ul style="text-align: center;"><li>Intensive Spanish! (it waits for no one!!!!)</li><li>World Geography</li><li>Beginning Guitar</li><li>Human prehistory and origins (totally stoked about this one!!!)</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;">So, wish me luck in my new adventure. Watch out Bachelor's Degree, here I come!!!<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-69603351529091492222010-08-08T17:56:00.005-07:002010-08-08T18:17:49.530-07:00Poop my pants...<div style="text-align: center;">A friend posted a picture of a ridiculous spider today on Facebook that inspired this blog. I thought it would be fun to post a few of the things in life that scare the shit out of me. So here goes, in no specific order.<br /><br />First thing's first...spiders. Spiders are so sick and disgusting. I know they are really good for the environment because they eat pesty bugs and blah, blah, blah, but ultimately they are just repulsive. I couldn't even post an <span style="font-style: italic;">actual</span> picture of one on my blog. It would just be wrong , plus it would make my skin crawl. So here is what my friend's at Google came up with...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TF9SVEXgpVI/AAAAAAAAAn0/KQ9gTeY8KyU/s1600/108429.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 321px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TF9SVEXgpVI/AAAAAAAAAn0/KQ9gTeY8KyU/s400/108429.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503207791573116242" border="0" /></a>Sick.<br /><br />Moving on.<br /><br />Roller coasters. I'd pretty much rather eat glass than ride a roller coaster. My dad made me ride The Beastie at King's Island when I was about eight years old. It nearly scared me to death. I cried my face off and have never been on one since then. Generally, after people get to know me and my personality they find it really hard to believe that I HATE roller coasters. Too bad, so sad for them...cause I freakin' hate them.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TF9VpGhxsKI/AAAAAAAAAoE/b3b-ZaFmpKs/s1600/roller%2520coaster.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TF9VpGhxsKI/AAAAAAAAAoE/b3b-ZaFmpKs/s400/roller%2520coaster.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503211434285314210" border="0" /></a><br />My heart is pounding just thinking about this!<br /><br />What scares you?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-90217591635204936802010-08-06T17:53:00.005-07:002010-08-06T19:38:02.045-07:00Painful fail<div style="text-align: center;">So yeah, I have to admit it. I am kick ass when it comes to starting IVs. I've been doing this job now for a year and a half and can honestly say I have mastered this skill. You probably won't find a person that is better than I am this, and I'm not just saying that. My job is cake...most of the time.<br /><br />Yesterday, I received a page to go to the hospice unit. No big deal. I've been there plenty of times and experienced the sadness that looms over the entire floor. The patient's name sounded really familiar, but I couldn't put a face with the name until I walked into her room. Which by the way had her "code status" posted on the door, which included oxygen, IV fluids, and CPR. Nothing else.<br /><br />This patient is incredibly sick. She has cancer of some kind...I think she had previously mentioned that it was liver and kidney cancer. In addition to this, she is a dialysis patient so she only has one arm available for IVs because of her fistula (equipment used to dialyze patients). She has been in the hospital for almost a month, so try to imagine what one arm being stuck for labs and IVs looks like after a month of torture.<br /><br />Anyhow, I walked into the room and her face lit up. She was so happy to see me and told me she was relieved because I was the one starting her IV. (Keep in mind, I've started probably five or so on her during her stay at the hospital). She seemed to be in generally good spirits. She was reading her Bible (as she always is) and had a couple of visitors in the room.<br /><br />I stuck her the first time in the biggest vein that I could find, which was not big by any sense of the word. It didn't work: the vein blew. I looked around her arm some more and thought I would try something else. A smaller gauge needle I thought would surely do the trick.<br /><br />I found the nurse, and requested a 24g needle. We had to have one sent over from the pediatric unit because 24gs are generally only used on infants, premies, and newborns. I waited around until the supplies came, talking to my patient. When it finally arrived, I found another vein, stuck it...and again....no luck. It blew.<br /><br />The only other trick I had up my sleeve was to try starting the IV without using a tourniquet. This works sometimes in older patients because there is no outside pressure on the vein. Outside pressure from a tourniquet can make veins blow if the they are fragile from age, overuse, or certain drugs. My patient had all of these things stacked against her.<br /><br />So, she was happy to let me stick her one more time. However, no luck. Same situation with the vein blowing. She burst into tears and was hopeless. She knew that "if I couldn't do it, then no one could."<br /><br />I cannot express to you how devastated I was. I felt like a complete failure at my job. I know that it's impossible to successfully obtain an IV on everyone, especially patients like this. It's just that this particular patient has a special place in my heart, as all cancer patients do. I really wanted to help her...and I couldn't.<br /><br />I apologized to her and left the room, crying.<br /><br />Sometimes health care is just overwhelming. Most of the time (like 99% of it) I can keep my emotions together and move on. And there were other options for this lady, but she had so much faith in me and I let her down. Some days, my job just sucks.<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-42515401421766989332010-08-04T17:57:00.003-07:002010-08-04T18:01:10.028-07:00Tomatoes! (or not)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TFoMkRrrNMI/AAAAAAAAAns/89ZJqVhFGmQ/s1600/tomato.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TFoMkRrrNMI/AAAAAAAAAns/89ZJqVhFGmQ/s400/tomato.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501723712147895490" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Mmm....yummy! What is left of our "garden" are these lovely tomato plants. There are some beefsteak and cherry tomatoes growing. They are delicious!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TFoMjxu4OTI/AAAAAAAAAnk/AnvrKh90PFU/s1600/dogs+in+tomatoes.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TFoMjxu4OTI/AAAAAAAAAnk/AnvrKh90PFU/s400/dogs+in+tomatoes.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501723703571396914" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Too bad the freakin' dogs keep eating them! I won't say whooooooo, but SAM and DAISY don't care if they are ripe or not...they eat them regardless. Pick em' right off the vine.<br />A-HOLE dogs.<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-45557514509951702932010-08-04T07:01:00.002-07:002010-08-04T07:11:20.675-07:00Roasting<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TFl0DX7PeyI/AAAAAAAAAnc/dEIEcunu7dw/s1600/2738759572_42de81e787.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 326px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TFl0DX7PeyI/AAAAAAAAAnc/dEIEcunu7dw/s400/2738759572_42de81e787.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501556021120695074" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The word hot doesn't even begin to describe the temperature right now. I can't remember it ever being this miserable and scorching hot. Even the Carmel doesn't like it, which is weird because she usually loves to lay around outside being a little sun seeker. Not so much now. Glad we have AC. It's supposed to feel like 110 degrees today. I might die.<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-71495273464235984152010-07-27T19:22:00.003-07:002010-07-27T19:28:35.232-07:00DONE<div style="text-align: center;">I just submitted my last paper ever for my Associate's Degree! Glad that's over. Now, where's my bed?<br /><br />This pretty much sums it up...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TE-VpupDttI/AAAAAAAAAnU/_kluUld7ZFI/s1600/64.give_yourself_a_pat_on_the_back.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 254px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TE-VpupDttI/AAAAAAAAAnU/_kluUld7ZFI/s400/64.give_yourself_a_pat_on_the_back.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498778214170080978" border="0" /></a>YAY for me!<br /><br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-25401939460487240902010-07-24T18:21:00.003-07:002010-07-24T18:24:51.746-07:00Nephews...<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEuR1FeC4fI/AAAAAAAAAnM/TzgSBalRIQk/s1600/115.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEuR1FeC4fI/AAAAAAAAAnM/TzgSBalRIQk/s400/115.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5497648111323111922" border="0" /></a>I can't wait to spend the a few days with these two little men this week! It feels<br />like they were just little babies. It's so crazy to watch them grow up and totally makes<br />me have a sad. I will always see them as being little boys.<br />Love these guys to pieces.<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-82235432435006887102010-07-20T19:11:00.004-07:002010-07-20T20:07:20.808-07:00GT! GOOOD TIMES!<div style="text-align: center;">i don't mind waiting in line<br />no no<br />i don't mind if the bills pile up<br />and the work is slow<br />i don't mind the gas or the groceries or the grind<br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"> as long as i'm with you<br /> i'm having a good time</p><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><p style="text-align: center;">don't mind the stoner waiter<br />or the poorly cooked food<br /> don't mind little miss kitty<br />or her knuckle-head dude<br /> don't mind if every last person here<br />is ugly and rude<br /> long as i'm with you<br />i've got a good attitude<br />long as i'm with you</p><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><p style="text-align: center;">we could be stuck in traffic<br />for over a week<br /> with a car full of quintuplets<br />who are all cutting teeth<br /> around my neck<br />could be a flaming christmas wreath<br />and i'd be smiling underneath<br />smiling underneath</p><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><p style="text-align: center;">i don't mind waking up early<br />for a flight that's delayed<br /> i don't mind a week's vacation<br />was chilly and grey<br /> i don't mind the traffic cops or the tsa<br /> as long as i'm with you<br />i'm having a good day<br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"> don't mind spilling my hot sauce<br />onto my white shirt<br /> don't mind the twinge when i walk<br />in that knee that i hurt<br /> don't mind my gums peeling back<br />or my hair getting thin<br /> long as i'm with you i win<br /><br />We could be near a mountain...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEZh0ZLDNnI/AAAAAAAAAms/WLYGGUyqiMM/s1600/305.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEZh0ZLDNnI/AAAAAAAAAms/WLYGGUyqiMM/s400/305.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496187947990595186" border="0" /></a><br />Or in a land far away....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEZix9MK92I/AAAAAAAAAnE/AK4NQUGxkcA/s1600/680.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEZix9MK92I/AAAAAAAAAnE/AK4NQUGxkcA/s400/680.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496189005630994274" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Or even right here at home...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEZh1jNApkI/AAAAAAAAAm8/wPktRqEcZ8o/s1600/n27310662_33621908_3915.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEZh1jNApkI/AAAAAAAAAm8/wPktRqEcZ8o/s400/n27310662_33621908_3915.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496187967863039554" border="0" /></a><br /><br />It doesn't matter where we are. Even though there are like a skamillion miles between us right now, I am always thinking of you and waiting for you to come to me so we can have a good time!<br /><br /><br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-39110700268712613312010-07-19T18:37:00.002-07:002010-07-19T18:40:47.966-07:00Busy day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TET-f8YMZAI/AAAAAAAAAmk/RVVttTc5k6Y/s1600/working+hard.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TET-f8YMZAI/AAAAAAAAAmk/RVVttTc5k6Y/s400/working+hard.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495797270035850242" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This pretty much sums up my work day today. It's a rough life.<br /></div>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-8763363568135918672010-07-19T18:25:00.002-07:002010-07-19T18:37:12.238-07:00Sleepers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TET9k1p7pwI/AAAAAAAAAmc/u6dgP0DBmfg/s1600/CArmie+in+bed.jpg"><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br />The dogs have officially taken over the bed now that Lindsay is gone. It's ridiculous but so cute all at the same time. The arrangement used to be Sam by Lindsay's feet, Daisy curled up somewhere near my feet and legs, and Carmie RIGHT IN BETWEEN US (being a brat all night long). Of course Stone and Duke are way to big to sleep in bed, so they are always on the floor, snoring their faces off.<br /><br />However, things have changed. All three of the little ones think it is now their job in life to keep me safe at night since Mama L isn't here to do make sure I see tomorrow. First of all, the three of them all have to be touching me in some way. Either a paw or a nose or an ear...but something has to be touching me. Sam sleeps on Lindsay's pillows (AHAHAAAHAHAAAA!!! Sorry babe!), Daisy sleeps wherever other dogs won't be touching her, and Carmie sleeps with her nose on my head...all curled up in my pillows and blankies.<br /><br />It's nice to have all of these little creatures surrounding me and keeping me company. In fact, I think the five of them will keep my sane for the next few months. I love these little dogs. Anyhow, here is a picture of Lindsay's Baby Blonde Dog early this morning before I left for work.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TET9k1p7pwI/AAAAAAAAAmc/u6dgP0DBmfg/s1600/CArmie+in+bed.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TET9k1p7pwI/AAAAAAAAAmc/u6dgP0DBmfg/s400/CArmie+in+bed.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495796254618920706" border="0" /></a>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8102305879502332866.post-21753538638582076812010-07-18T18:04:00.002-07:002010-07-18T18:10:22.156-07:00Almost done!Good news, peeps! In a little more than one week I will OFFICIALLY be a college graduate! Not that an Associate's Degree is something so huge, but it's a stepping stone. I'm so happy I get to leave Ivy Tech and move onto IUPUI. I really feel like I'm going to do so well in a larger school. Until then though, I will be writing my face off for my last two classes. Hats off to me!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEOlxmfVExI/AAAAAAAAAmU/qr5EfV1AgQg/s1600/graduation3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_NOR33dpLyaQ/TEOlxmfVExI/AAAAAAAAAmU/qr5EfV1AgQg/s400/graduation3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495418241886262034" border="0" /></a>angehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01721675421774427840noreply@blogger.com1