It's been a wild week.

It turns out that most of the rest of my family got sick as well this week. On Wednesday Max got sick all over our dining room floor and wall... (and I think I may want to have kids?).. Katie and Hilary were sick yesterday..

At least I'm not pregnant! Not that I thought I was but there are such things as the immaculate conception right?

The big thing that was stressing me out the other night has been resolved and I'm feeling pretty good. I slept nine hours last night... it doesn't really make up for only two the night before but it will do for now.

I've got a lot to figure out in the next few weeks... it should be exciting.... I may actually even go out on what I like to call a "meet and greet" this weekend. My ww leader Lisa (in Chicago) has a pseudo cousin here in the Seattle area and thought we should meet. It's been a comedy of errors trying to arrange schedules but it might just work out this weekend.

Well, since I decided to sleep in I should probably get a move on.

Happy Friday.

Insomnia my old friend...

It's back again. I get into a stressful situation and I can't fall asleep... I keep thinking of things and then the mind starts racing. I know the last time this happened was back in Chicago... the time before it - When I got into Grad School... I don't handle change easily.

I took a Tylenol pm sort of thing... maybe that will knock me out. I hope I get some sleep before work tomorrow.

On the down low...

Yesterday I ended up working until noon and then going home. I haven't slept this much since I don't know when. My stomach still hurts but I think it's more because I don't have any food in it. I'm a bit scared to eat anything because I don't want it to mess me up. I'm not good at being sick.

Today I am going to go to work and see how it goes... my back is hurting too but I think that's because I've been sleeping so much and the muscles aren't being given their normal workout.

On the ww Paycheck front, supposedly a check was mailed to me last Friday. Hopefully it will show up today. I need to start building up my savings account for my future endeavors.

Let's see, what else can I rant about... the fact that I'm 40, single and falling apart? Nope - that doesn't seem worth ranting about right now...

Death warmed over.

I started feeling like crap last night. I'm sweatty, my stomach doesn't feel too good. I don't really want to call in sick because that doesn't look good. Maybe If I take a shower I'll feel better.

Hola and Howdy.

It's Monday morning - what up with all of you?

I've been to the gym and am currently microwaving my Smart Ones frozen dinner for breakfast. I know, you're thinking why is she having a frozen dinner for breakfast? It's because I can.

I'm going to get back on track this week - I've eaten like a pig the past two days... that birthday party killed me. Okay - it was the beer I drank at the birthday party that made me lose my good food judgment. But man, those cupcakes were good. As was the pasta salad and the chips and the burgers and the hotdog... oh, I forgot the ice cream.

Today it is back to work for me... I wonder what I'll wear today - I have to look cute and smell good. That's my advice to everyone... if you're a guy you can look good as opposed to cute (same thing I suppose)...

I tried to stay awake last night to watch the Two Coreys on A & E but I became comatose sometime in the middle of Gene Simmon's Family Jewels... (I think that show's kind of funny) and missed it all.

I guess that's it for now.

The Party's Over...

And nobody got hurt. Here are a few choice photos for you all.






Hilary had some official photos taken for her first birthday here is one of those...



Today I need to work off some of those cupcakes I ate yesterday...... they were yummy though...

Let's be friends...

I have been visiting my My Space page and making some adjustments. I can't really get into the My Space craze but I like to be able to keep up with people.

I just requested that Tegan and Sara be my friend... it's good to have friends. Now if only I could get a date.

I could get a date if I really wanted to - but I'm a chicken.

Latest favorite album

this is from Tegan and Sara's latest album "The Con" I heart it a lot.

Casual Friday....

I have come to the conclusion that even if you can wear jeans on casual Friday you shouldn't always... if you're going to look like a shlub you might as well wear a skirt. It's not worth it to be a fashion don't.

The wait continues...

I STILL have not received a paycheck from ww for any of my Seattle meetings. I like the program - but this really sucks. Whose house do I need to burn down? it's only been over two months. I'm getting cranky and I feel a full blown rant coming on soon.

I am really tired today... it's raining outside and it would just be nice to hang out on the sofa with Tucker and Ann Curry.



I miss Ann.

This working full time is wearing me out!

I got up before five to work out ... worked at the firm... then went to first thursday with Kristy (thanks for coming)... I just have to do it one more day (work that is) and then I can rest.

Talk to you all in the morning....

Don't Panic!

When I tell you that I went to they gym both last night AND this morning.

Now that you've all picked yourselves up off the floor I'll continue. I've decided I need to whittle down the thighs - the only way to do that (besides liposuction) is by working out. I will never have firm thighs if I just sit on my ass all the time.

This Saturday is Katie's Birthday - Today is her actual birthday though... she's one. There are going to be about 17 children under 7 here... now that's how I spell fun!

Tonight after work I am going to First Thursday... I'm not sure what shows are up but I'm sure I'll find something to like. I just have to remember to look cute... The fleet is in town as well! hmmmm... Sailors.

The big blow off...

Let's see - things I'm blowing off...
The gym.

Okay, maybe I'm not blowing off too much... but I also hate being blown off by other people. I hate being ignored... maybe if I didn't think about things so much it wouldn't bother me as much as it does.

I hate it when I expect something from someone and they don't follow through... Maybe I just expect too much from people.

So if you haven't guessed I'm irked off at someone. They don't read the blog so I could name names but then it would just turn into one of those TMZ - Perez Hilton blogs... I'm all for gossip, but within reason.

Today I am going to be receiving my first paycheck for my temp job. It will be nice to start saving some money for my upcoming adventure (if it ever materializes... speculate as to what it might be now!).

Today I am also going to see the chiropractor... maybe he can take care of all my post race ailments.



This is the building that I work in... some people call it the Ban Roll On Building... I think it looks like a big diaphragm.

Getting back to blowing off the gym... maybe I'll set out my clothes so I can go on the way home from work...

This is going to kill me...

I am still trying to recover from the run the other night. I am back at home and was going to get up and go to the gym this morning but I just can't do it.

I was looking at my results and I was not the last person in my age group. Okay so I was 40 something out of 60 something people but I wasn't last. (47 out of 63 - yikes)... I supposed if I was more committed I would do a better job, but I'm not.

This Saturday is Katie's first birthday party... I think 70 people were invited (I don't think that many will show up though...). It should be an event.

I'm sorry this is going nowhere this morning... Tucker is sitting on my lap right now and she just tooted... it scared me! I better go....

I can't decide...

If it hurts more the day after running or the next day. I must say that I am very stiff... I suppose that I should run more often if I'm going to become a runner.

Yesterday I ended up going to Bellevue Square where they were having the Art Fair. I think somewhere along the line I became an art snob (kind of). I guess I'm just not into the crafty type of art thing anymore... there's nothing wrong with craft but it's just not what I do anymore.

I managed to do some retail therapy (not a lot because I need to save money)... but just enough to keep me out of too much trouble.

Tonight I head back to my house - no more house sitting gigs on the horizon. Maybe I can get some stuff done around the house then.

Time's a wasting - more later

Oh, my official time was 52.06 - Just over a 10 minute mile...

Oops I did it again...

I ran. I hurt. I was sweating like a pig on a spit being roasted over an open flame.

I am happy to report that the slow person van did not pick me up but It's was looking a bit sketchy there towards the end. I will update this all on Jenerator Running when I get a chance.

My body is hurting today... not as bad as back in the old days (November) when this whole journey began.

I am tempted to go Bellevue Square today... maybe look for a nice pair of shoes...
Find a husband.

I was going to go to church but I can't seem to get out of my pj's.

Tonight's the night!

I am going to attempt to run for the first time in three months... I mean REALLY run. I'm going to make an audio recording durning it as well. I hope I don't fall.

I am meeting up with my friend Nick before the race. He's a camp person - we're going out for a beer after the run. That should be fun. Maybe I can get him to be my wingman. I don't know exactly how to use a wingman but I'm sure I could figure it out. I just have to try not to sweat too much. I suppose a glow wouldn't be too bad. I will report back tomorrow as to how I do.

TGIF

So I've only worked four days this week but what can I say??? I'm not used to it.

I have to get a good nights sleep tonight if I'm going to even attempt to run in the torchlight run... damn, I have to pick out a cute running outfit too!

I slept in until 6:00 this morning... I should move - getting to look beautiful takes time.

Yesterday I got a lot of exercise at work... I moved boxes of files for a major part of the day. Sorry I'm not more scintillating (did I spell that right? - I didn't but spell check caught it..).

Bailey the dog threw up on the new carpet last night... that was pretty exciting.

Live from Bellevue...

So, this is what dial up feels like... the slow loading, mind numbing wait for the pages to fully materialize. Things from the other side of the lake are just fine... I figured out how to make the coffee and I'm good to go.

The only hazzard about staying at other people's houses is that there is bad food. I polished off two Hershey bars and a few animal crackers. To add to the food fest I only walked about 3,000 steps yesterday... That's not good. I'll have to make up for it somehow... give me some exercise points.

Well, I suppose I should go because I don't know how long it will take me to get ready and I have to commute from the Eastside.

Word to your mother.

misty watercolored memories

I am happy to report that I survived my first day back in the working world.

I must admit that there is something kind of nice about working in an office environment. People talking about their late nights out... the soft whir of the photocopier... the potential of earning some money. I worked in the Records Department doing inventory on some files. I haven't really worked in records since the late 80's (holy crap I'm old). It wasn't too bad... I got to walk around downtown during lunch (oh the shopping).

Even though I miss the goings on of the office I realize that I couldn't do it forever. I am really glad that I decided to go to school. Now if only being an artist could pay as much as pushing paper the world would be perfect.

I woke up at 5:00 intending on going to the gym but it didn't happen. Maybe after work I'll suck it up and go.

I get to spend the next few days dog and house sitting for my sister and her brood of animals. Bailey, Emmy and Tooter... I'll post photos when I can.

I'm trying to find something cute to wear during the torchlight run... it's not happening. I suppose I could dress up like a pirate but that might be uncomfortable. (for those of you in Chicago the pirate idea comes from the whole summer festival called Seafair - there are pirates, boats and sailors galore...).

Well, I better get moving.

Sucking it up.

Yesterday I went to the gym and I THINK that I will be able to run the 11 minute mile required for the 8k. I figure I can't be the slowest person running... I bet there will be others who are slower.

This morning is shaping up to be a busy one, I am taking my momma in to get the cataracts taken off her other eye then it's back here to get ready for work. I sure hope my nerves don't get the best of me... everything will be fine. I just get a bit of an upset tummy sometimes.

Tonight there is an opening at the CMA gallery at the UW. I will try to make that if I'm not too exhausted. I'm not sure how late I will have to work today - I don't start until 9:30.

My leg is feeling a bit out of whack today (different leg than last week).... hey, maybe there will be cute single men where I work... oh crap - what will I wear?

How fast can a jenerator run?

I was reading the information about the Torchlight run last night and found out that I need to run at least an 11 minute mile to avoid being picked up by the slow person's van. That's the van that picks up all the people who can't keep up the pace. I have no concept of how fast an 11 minute mile is... I know what it means - you can run a mile in 11 minutes. Oh crap. I hope I can do it. At least if I have a cute outfit maybe people won't notice if I get picked up.

Today is my last day of freedom - it is going to be strange working full time again. It's been almost two years since I have and I hope It doesn't wear me out too much. This afternoon I am going to help the attorney I used to work for go through some files and then it's off to my last ww meeting. I am going to continue to work some Saturday meetings but this is my last Monday night.

I think I'll go to the gym this morning and see how fast an 11 minute mile is. If I can't keep up maybe I'll see if I can switch over to the 5k... then I only have to run a 15 minute mile... I know I can do that.


This picture of Stinky was on my mom's camera... I think it was taken last year sometime.... she sure is cute.

I am a winner

Well, maybe not a winner but I did manage to get out of the house on both Friday and Saturday night. It's a big accomplishment for me. I am a bit of a homebody... the urge to stay in often outweighs the urge to go out. Maybe once I start working full time I may have more energy to do things (It sound weird - but I do more when I am busy)...

This morning I am contemplating as to weather or not I should go to church... I haven't been for a while. I could either do that or go to the gym. I haven't been to the gym either... I would have gone yesterday but my knee was out of whack and I couldn't walk without it hurting. It's back to normal today. I should go work out because I am supposed to run in the torchlight run next Saturday. I should practice... do real runners practice? I don't consider myself a real runner... I'm just a pretender.

Maybe I'll go put on my workout clothes and see if it inspires me.

The most expensive piece of paper I own.

I know this is a moment you have all been waiting for... drum roll please.

dadadadadadadadada...



My diploma from the Art Institute. It only cost me a little over $50,000 bucks plus the $15.00 graduation fee they charged me. I suppose when you calculate the $6.80 it cost them to send it to me they're only making a profit of a little over 8 bucks.

Maybe if I carry it around with me I will be able to get into museums for free... or at least a MFA graduate discount... it could be worth a shot.

Try to be interesting...

I am afraid that I have lost the umph in my blog. I used to be on the edge, commenting about the style choices of people (the fact that women in Chicago don't often wear bras when they should).. I suppose I could comment on all the polar fleece in Seattle but is that original? No.

I actually went out last night and did something. I met two friends of a gentleman I go to church with (Lanny)... he thought I should meet them because they are art type people... (okay, that sounded cutting edge didn't it?)

Tonight I am going to Crawl Space for an opening of my friend Chad's work. It will be nice to see him. I haven't since I moved back from Chicago.

I better get going. I have to work at ww after my meeting.

A tough row to hoe..

I was mistaken when I thought I was going to be paid yesterday - The Art Institute paid on Thursdays and WW was Friday back in Chicago. Well, I checked my bank account this morning and I did get paid but only for one meeting. You can't pay bills with $31.27. Okay, you could pay the random minimum credit card payment but not much more. I guess I'll just have to hound the powers that be.

On the bright side I did get that temp job I interviewed for yesterday. It's good to have "mad administrative skills"...the office manager was wondering why I didn't want a permanent position - it sounded like I could have one if I wanted (I'll have to keep this in mind for later in the year).

The only drawback to actually having a job is that I won't be able to watch the Today show in the morning. I must admit that my viewing habits have changed since I moved back home... it was much easier to sit on the futon with the computer on my lap and the television on in 280 square feet of room than it is here. My wifi connection doesn't reach into the living room. Oh well, the sacrifices we have to make.

Last night I went out to dinner with my mother and the "ladies", it's a group of women my mother has known for years and years. They get together for dinner a couple times a month - Their dinners were always shrouded in mystery to me, but really they just get together and eat. It was a bit noisy so we couldn't gossip or anything.

On SYTYCD they eliminated Hoc and Anya. I had guessed that those would be the two... I was hoping that Lacey would be in the bottom three but she wasn't... she's good, but Sabra and Sara are better I think...

Today I need to enjoy my last full day of unemployment... maybe lay on the sofa with my dog. Paint my toenails - WAIT A MINUTE! the Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale starts today... I could spend my $31.27 on something pretty!

It all comes down to a dancing pickle...

I think I mentioned earlier that I had signed up for a free dating website. I received an email the other day from someone who called me "sweetheart". He said something about wanting to meet me and then he inserted a dancing pickle emoticon. I'm sorry, but I can't take anyone seriously with a dancing pickle.

I am happy to report that Stinky is feeling much better. The hives pretty much persisted all day and she was very uncomfortable. This morning she seems to be doing fine.

Today I have my interview and then I am stopping by to talk to talk to another attorney I worked for to see if I can help her out with some things.

I should be getting paid finally for all the ww meetings I've been working... it's only been about two months. Let's go check. Nope, no money yet, but Basic Health did get my payment and I will hopefully have some health insurance soon... do you know how long it's been since I've been to the doctor? I hope I'm not falling apart.

Stinky's eventfull morning...

It's mornings like this that you dread... at 2:45 this morning Stinky (Tucker is her real name for all you new readers) started fussing. My mom put her out and then tried to get her back to sleep but she kept on fussing. Around 4:15 she woke me up and I took her to my bed with me for a while.. I did notice that her breathing was a bit fast but didn't really think much more about it. I took her downstairs around 6 and went back to bed. around 6:20 my mom brought her upstairs and showed me her belly and it had hives on it.

We then noticed that she had hives all over her head and muzzle... we took her to the emergency vet because she was swelling up like a balloon. She got benydryll and steroids and seems to be doing better... The vet thinks she either was in contact with a spider or a wasp and had an allergic reaction.

I hate the feeling of being out of control... To think that Stinky might not make it... anxiety and stress... I was physically shaking before we took her to the vet.. (although it was just my knee).. I can only imagine what it's like when a human that you care for is in one of these situations...

So I guess if I had to sum up this morning I would say... let the people you care about know it, because you never know what's going to happen....

Good News...

I finally poured the casts of my feet today... it feels good to make things... I've been missing having a studio to work in.

On another note, I have an interview on Thursday for that temp job... it's working for a law firm as an office services clerk... artist/office services clerk.... sounds about as good as an artist/runner (oh, who am I kidding...).

I was perusing the law firm's website yesterday and saw that there are a few people who work there that I know. One of them is my former supervisor - she's now a paralegal. I could tell some stories about the old days - but then I'd have to kill you all and that would take far too much time.

Full Discolsure?

When you have a blog it's hard to keep things private, not that I have anything too serious to hide...

I suppose that's the nature of the beast - if you choose to spread the love and joy in your life with everyone in the universe (or cyberuniverse) you have to be able to deal with judgement from people. I say welcome to my life - messy parts and all.

I was talking to my friend Kristen yesterday and an attorney that we used to work for is looking for someone to help her out with office work temporarily... I am going to call her today. It will be nice to have something to do even if it is only for a few days. I also have a lead on a one month assignment that starts at the end of the month. I hope I get it because I need to save some money by the end of the summer (start your speculation as to why here).

I suppose I should head off to the gym. It will be good for me... maybe I'll mix it up and do some weights.

I leave you with another picture from the bridge run

More photos

Nothing like a few photos of workers and sunrises. They go together like coffee and donuts... (maybe?).

Photo's of the run...

I finally got photo's to upload... here are a few choice selections for you all...




I'm surprised I was so bright and cheery at 6:30 am






That guy in the black is my friend Bryan... you might recognize him from other posts. He's the friend who I have lunch with.





This is the trooper who was on the bridge deck... he's kind of cute don't you think?


And we end this post with a fashion don't... I like the idea of a running skirt, but not if you have cellulite.

Bridge run...

If I could ever get my photos to upload I would show you some swell pictures of this mornings events... Maybe I'll try from firefox...

It's 4:30 am...

I haven't been up this early since I was fishing up grad school and worrying about my little computer...
I can't stay long. I have to get myself put together for the 5k. Pictures to come later

Let's see if I can stay awake.

The amazing emoticon...

If you have no idea of what I'm talking about here's a picture...


They are those funny little things that express emotion in emails, personal ads and documents. I find the name emoticon sort of funny.... although I don't particularly like them when they are used... something to think about.

Today my weigh in went as expected... I was up six pounds from 5 weeks ago. I did commit to tracking what I ate for three days this week... (nice two minute motivation Phil!). I didn't think I could commit to more than that.

At the wedding I only screwed up once with the music - but I blame the minister... okay so you're saying to yourself "sure, she's blaming someone else" but really, right before for recessional he looked over to me in the doorway and nodded... how was I supposed to know that the father of the (bride or groom - I'm not sure which) was going to invite everyone downstairs to the reception. I don't think it was too bad... I still got paid. I took my wages and went to Trader Joe's on my way home, I bought brown rice and fake sausage links and patties.

Tomorrow I'm being picked up at 5 am to go to Tacoma... it should be fun. I'll be sure to post photos.

Slug.

I am one... yesterday started out so well and ended with a thud. I managed to watch a bunch of episodes of What Not to Wear and then go to bed at 9:30. How's that for a Friday night?

It's times like these that I wish I had a "normal" life... I've never been one to get out and socialize or just go do things with other people. I wish I could make myself do those things... I might be a bit happier. Not that I'm not happy, I just think my overall mood swings would be less noticeable if I had more going on...

This morning I have to weigh in at my meeting. I'm not looking forward to it, but I have to do it. It also turns out that I get to help with another wedding today. The person who was going to run the CD player for the ceremony backed out so I am going to get paid $75.00 for pushing a few buttons... I just hope I don't screw up.

I've got to go and face the digits... aye aye aye!

Atmosphere

The sky is a beautiful thing sometimes. These shots were taken last night from my back yard. It wasn't as hot yesterday which was nice - I slept fairly well.

If I was really motivated I would go to the gym right now... nope, my butt isn't moving out of this chair...

On Sunday I am participating in the 5k walk/run over the new Tacoma Narrows bridge. I will take along my camera and try to take some pictures for you all to enjoy. This will be considered my training for the 8k Torchlight run on the 28th. Man, I really should go to the gym...

I heart my new phone...

if I had a picture to post I would... it's just spiffy... I can even take videos on it.

I might have a long term temp job lined up... but it doesn't pay as much as I would like. I guess I should just suck it up and take it because I need to earn some money. We'll see how it goes... they want someone for two months but I am only available until the end of August (Start your speculation why here....).

I'm sort of at the point where I don't really want to work but I have to earn some money soon or I'll be in trouble.

Tonight my momma and I walked down to Jalisco's for dinner... it was yummy. I had arroz con pollo. Tomorrow I'm going to check in with my dad. He's been on vacation and I haven't seen him for a while... I have to get back to SYTYCD. Later

Heat is hot.

Duh... it reached 97 degrees yesterday... I was hot but not too uncomfortable. I have Chicago to thank for that... I would take a 97 with dry heat over 85 with humidity. I only had to take one shower yesterday as opposed to three.

High point today will be getting my new cell phone. I will try to make the casts of my feet as well... it will be good to do some work like that.

I have floated the idea of going to a pub mixer to my friend Kristen... I haven't seen her since I moved back, but we're both young (ahem) single girls... we have a lot to offer and I could give up my television watching for one night (even though Brother and SYTYCD are on).

I've had a few calls from the temp agency about jobs... I am going to return them today... I have to start earning some money... I also found out that WW had been holding my pay because my ex territory manager hadn't completed the paperwork on my transfer. This means no paycheck until next week.

Dial up... my old friend.

This morning I am having problems with my wifi connection so I am coming to you vial the old dial up way...

I went to the Chiropractor this morning and I am feeling better... now if I could just get a tummy tuck and thinner thighs things would be hunky-dory.

Yesterday I talked to Karolina for the first time since I've been back in Seattle. I sure do miss her. You don't usually realize what you've had until it's gone... and I sure do miss her being around all the time to calm me down (I have a tendency to get stressed out if you haven't noticed). If I could afford it I would take a trip to Chicago to see my friends... maybe when I'm a rich and famous artist I will...

I've said it before and I'll say it again...

my body is killing me. That slip and slide wrecked me. As usual it's the left hip and right shoulder... it's gotten to the point where it's waking me up at night. I also made a mistake and my chiropractic appointment isn't until tomorrow.

Sooo... on the dating front, I responded to some of my emails on the new site. I seem to attract very old men.. which is not necessarily a bad thing but... these are creepy old men. There was an average sort of fella who works on transmissions in Bellevue... maybe I should email him back. The problem is I don't know how to date... I'm pathetic in that sense.

Last night as I was channel surfing I came across the show on TLC called Big Medicine - it's about weight loss surgery. They were talking about a patient of theirs who looked terrific but still thought of herself as a buddy with guys because that's what she had always been. Now, when she was rejected she didn't have the weight to blame it on anymore and dating was becoming an issue. I hope that made sense as I explained it... to get to my point (and I do have one) I can totally relate to her thinking... I was large for so long it was a buffer... I still think of myself as the fat girl even though physically I'm not. I definitely think better of myself but it's been slow going even to get to this point.



Here is a picture of Julie and me (myself??) taken the night before I left Chicago (for those of you underage readers - yes, I was a little bit tipsy but I walked home and didn't drink irresponsibly)... that was one of my best nights in recent memory... I'm working on making other good memories it's just taking a bit....

Well, I better be off. I'm going to exercise with my friend Melinda today... the official weight when I got on the scale this morning was 147.5 (yikes)... I've just got to do what I need to do to get back down to where I need to be. I've been doing the emotional eating hard core for the last few weeks and it's time to stop.

I would have posted earlier...

but I was having problems.

It's official. I'm up a few pounds (five???) from my cookie fest at camp.

I went to the gym today and worked at WW this evening. I haven't been paid yet for any of the meetings I've worked in Seattle... I'm beginning to feel poor.

The photo above is of a tree on the lake at camp. As things get less weird (I don't know why things are weird, they just are...) I will post more.

Today I cracked out the Flex Wax and made a few molds of my foot. It was calming in a way... if only I had some studio space I might feel more normal.

I also signed up for a new singles website. It's called plenty of fish.. I've gotten a few responses - but It basically comes down to the fact that I am scared sh(&less to do anything about being single... I hate the thought of having to talk to people... I'm a wimp.

What now?

I'm having a weird day. I feel the pangs of lonliness creeping in again. It will pass as it always does.

Last week I had a little incident on the home made slip and slide at camp. My body still hasn't recovered.... good thing I'm visiting the chiropractor on Tuesday.

My head hurts... I think I'll go to bed soon.

Belly laughs???

I am back home now and my Mother pointed out the fact that I have gained a little bit of a belly while I was at camp.

I know she means well, but hey - I like my food. At least I can still fit into my size 4 shorts and small top... so there.

I guess it's back to the gym tomorrow.

Camp was great... I took some pictures this afternoon. I will post them later.

Dance Time!

Tonight we are having a dance. The first time I ever danced with a boy was here. I mean REALLY danced... I had that wooshy feeling.

I'll post an update later.

My tree...

In honor of my tenth summer camp counseling (nine years ago) a dogwood tree was planted in my honor. This is a photo I took of its blossoms yesterday.

If I were ever to get a tattoo I would get a dogwood blossom... or a tattoo of stretch marks over my stretch marks...

Talent...

I don't have it, but some of the campers do. I'm sitting here waiting for the talent show to begin. I am lucky... my cabin decided that I was not needed in our skit. Whew! I dislike the Talent Show with a passion.. okay, maybe dislike is a harsh word, but it's the first that comes to mind.

Last night I did an interpretive fireworks dance thing.... I think I pulled something in my shoulder. Hopefully I will recover in time for the dance tomorrow night. Maybe later I will reminisce about the first time I danced with a boy... it was here... we danced to a Cyndi Lauper song. Oh the memories.

The placing of the hands...

here are some of the hands that were cast....

I slept funny last night and my shoulder hurts... ouch. I'm looking forward to seeing my chiropractor next Tuesday.

Here we are again...

I don't exactly know how I feel about having wifi at camp. It's strange being able to blog here.

Camp has been good so far... eating too much... I have gas. yikes!

I don't have much time so I better go.
xo

Ouch again and again.

The day before yesterday I did this workout called turbojam... It should be call let's kick you A$$. My body hurts... I aslo went down this make-shift slip and slide yesterday and think I dislodged some food that had been stuck in one of my back molars for a few years when I hit the turf on my tummy.

I'm not saything that's a bad thing, but I'm sore. I have not been doing such a swell job of portion control... hmmmm.

But I'm at camp

Camp day two...

wore a bathing suit without covering up. BREAKTHROUGH! Art project a hit. I am a babe. Somebody date me!

Camp part due...

I'm here, there's wifi... no I will not be blogging daily but I will try a few times to get things posted.

I had turkey sausage for breakfast (a favorite of mine) and a biscuit with jam. yum.

I am going to gain twelve pounds while I"m here.

Five hours until the campers arrive.

Camp!

I may be out of contact for a while... I'm heading off to camp today for a week. I'm going to be counseling and doing art things with a group of high school students. The count was at 41 a few days ago but it should grow - because like everything else in this world people wait until the last minute.

I still have packing to do and I have to work this morning.

I'll try to post again before I leave.

It's just not the same.

This week on the Today show has been a bit lackluster. Ann is not there and I'm not even sure Al has been there either.

Last night after dinner I went to Target to try on bathing suits - holy crap! I need to do something to my thighs.... liposuction, tanning... encase them in frosted Plexiglass so no one can see them. They are a bit dimply and pasty... maybe I should go to the gym and do lunges - that's probably a better idea than plexi.

Last night on SYTYCD it was a shocker! Jessi and Jesus... Poor Shauna now has to Dance with Cedric again... woe is me. Okay not that Cedric is bad, it's just that he doesn't have the versatility of the other dancers.

Do you think maybe I need to get a life?

If I could do it all over...

How in the hell did I get to be 40? I don't feel 40. Sure, I've been 40 for a few months now but I still can't quite get used to it.

Maybe if I kept repeating my age to myself over and over it might make me believe it.

On tonight's schedule I will watch the results show of So You Think You Can Dance (forever to be known on the blog as SYTYCD).. and starting to get together things for camp.

Here we go.

I really need to figure out more of the technical aspects of blogging... but I suppose ignorance is bliss.

Vengence is mine.

It's impossible to think of cleaver and witty title to posts every single morning. This morning is no different... I have cramps, my hip hurts... I've taken three Advil. Hopefully that will take care of everything.

I recently signed up for the UW Husky Connect Website. It's a sort of myspace for University of Washington Alumni. If you are navigating here from there - Go Dawgs! I have put a link to the blog on that site... the picture I have next to my profile is the one I took when I went to Spud with Chris. It's just the fish and chips.. I figure that is a pretty good description of me... (fishy and greasy??? - no! I just like food....) maybe I should change it to an actual picture so people will see how cute I really am.

I was going to post a photo of Max and Leo but Blogger is not wanting to cooperate this morning. Perhaps I'll try again later.

Today I have to get some things ready to go to camp. I've mentioned before how much I dig camp but I will say it again... I love camp! I don't even know what the theme is for the week but I'm sure it will be good. I am going to be doing the art stuff. I've decided that we will do body casting (like my Hamilton Family feet project).. and some collage stuff. I don't want it to be too high stress and I want people to have fun. I think it will be the thing for me to get back into the groove of art making.

The woosh and the tingle.

Last night I had a dream I was having a makeout session with my first boyfriend Trevor Gong. That was about all that happened in the dream but it's made me giddy and a bit antsy. I sure miss making out... I suppose I could just attack people at random but I might get arrested. I remember the feeling I used to get... the tingle. Men don't always understand the tingle like women do... I think it's endorphins... the hollow pit in the stomach, the legs feel weak and wobbly... I sometimes call it feeling wooshy.

I miss the woosh...

and the tingle.

What am I doing up now?

Once again I am up at the crack of dawn. It's 6:00 I've already done some cleaning and started some laundry. I picked up some new coffee at the store yesterday, it's not as good as Intelligentsia but what can you do?

Nancy is coming back tonight instead of tomorrow... it will be nice to sleep in my own bed for a while - that is until next week when I'm at camp.

Today's weather calls for SUN (I hope).. Let's see what Rich Marriot has to say... he's not as cute as Andy Avalos in Chicago but he's alright. Yay - sun and 80 degrees. I'm working on my suntan. Yes that's right people in Seattle can get suntans... it doesn't always rain.

This coffee kind of sucks. Anyone in Chicago want to send me some black cat blend? I'll pay for postage! and the coffee of course.

Monday night's alright...

Today I went out to lunch with a friend of mine. It was nice but a bit weird... I can't really go into it although I wish I could.

It really bites to have feelings for someone but not be able to do anything about it. All you can do is be honest and hope that the universe will set everything straight in the end.

Or you can find a rich man who's good in the sack and has a lot of money.

I've gone and done it.

I signed up for the Torchlight 8k race the end of July. If anyone out there wants to run with me let me know. It should be interesting.

I almost feel in control today... in control of everything that needs to be controlled. (my bowels, my eating habits etc...).

I went to Fred Meyer's and bought myself a belt. My pants kept falling down so I thought I might as well try one out. The old fat me would have never thought of using a belt. It's kind of fun... I'm still not quite to the point of tucking things in but we'll see.

I'm a star!

Okay, maybe not a star but I did manage to get up at 6:15 and go to the gym. I need to start training for my next run. I need to sign up for something so I have something to look forward to AND so that I can do another recording. I've been non-art making for too long.

I think that's my main problem.

Now I need to see if I can find the finances to get my brows done and my haircut... then I'll be back to semi-normal.

Yo.

Today I ended up going to visit my niece the model and my sister and brother in law. It was very exciting... we went to Bellevue Square to buy socks for Katie... then we went to Red Robin for an early dinner. It was good and definitely not on plan.

Oh well, eventually my brain will catch up with my mouth.

My hip hurts... wah.

Plastic's

On CBS Sunday morning they are doing a story on Plastic and the lack of recycling. I should send them some pictures of my work.

Another exciting evening.

I was supposed to go out to with Melinda tonight but the gloomy side of me won out and I decided not to go. I didn't quite feel right... I think I'll go to bed soon.

I sometimes wonder why I don't like to be around other people a lot... I haven't always been this way (have I?)...

The best laid plans...

I had planned on moving the grass today here at Nancy's house but I can't get the mower to start...

Work this morning went really fast. It wasn't as bad as I thought I might be... I"m always expecting the worst. I think I might head out to Target to look at workout/running wear.

I should go to the gym and workout.

The Verdict.

I received a phone call from my friend Melinda and we went for a walk and then to dinner at a Mexican restaurant in Downtown Edmonds. It was good.

I also received a phone call from my territory manager and I am going to be working one or two ww meetings tomorrow morning. It's the two that are after my regular meeting at 7am. It will be nice to have some more money coming in.

BTW, I didn't get a paycheck... I'm figuring it has something to do with my moving and not having my information updated.

What's going on?

I'm actually in a good mood today. I've worked out, I haven't fallen off the good food bandwagon and I'm looking pretty cute. I guess that means I should go somewhere and be seen. I guess I'll see how that all pans out and I'll keep you updated.

Maybe I should go see a movie... maybe I should go for a walk? Maybe I should go to Target?? I haven't been there lately. I feel the need to get some new running clothes. I ran a bit this morning and it didn't hurt a bit... I should sign up for a race and get back to my work...

Tragedy will increase readership...

I posted that comment last night about the girl having her feet severed and it has blown my pageloads through the roof. I guess I'm just like other people... I want to have the gory details.

It turns out that on the AOL news page there is a link where you can read blogs on the subject. Somehow they found mine. I sure hope people weren't disapointed that I didn't have anything too exciting to say about the subject.

Crap-ola...

I just ate a whole sleeve of ritz crackers... I don't think they were very point friendly. Maybe once I get back to living at my own house I'll get back on track with my eating plan.

I think I get paid tomorrow for the WW meetings I've been working... maybe I'll be able to pay a few bills (like the one for almost $900 from the dentist).

I guess that's it for now....

Theme park horror!

I saw that a girl had her feet severed at an amusement park today.. it got me thinking how many accidents do happen and I found this website. I used to like amusement park rides but now I'm not so sure.

Things I miss about Chicago..

I miss my friends of course. Karolina sent me this picture yesterday. She was at the Field Museum and they had this model of the Space Needle. All of my other friends you know who you are... I miss you too.

I also miss Argo Tea and Intelligentsia Coffee. I've got a pot of Intelligentsia Black Cat Blend right here beside me.... I should plunge the pot and start caffeinating myself.

I'm a bit stiff this morning... not too bad. I just wish it was better... I suppose if I didn't eat like there was no tomorrow it might be better... I worked out with weights the other day... I think that's another reason I'm stiff.

Today I have my interview at another temp agengy.. then I might have lunch with Matt and Bryan again. I will try to stay on track...

I'm back..

Twice in one day. Can you believe it? I love having wifi in the range of the sofa.

I am happy to report that I went to the gym tonight. I went to the one near where I'm house sitting... it's not as nice am the one I usually go to but it will suffice.

I wish I didn't like food so much... okay maybe it's not that I like food - it's just that I eat when I'm lonely or bored (which is a lot). I suppose I could make myself go out and do things but it's just hard sometimes. Maybe by the time I turn 43 things will change. What the hell am I talking about?

Oh happy day!

I am not going to dwell on the fact that I have been eating like a pig for the past few days... I am not going to lament my lack of motivation in going out and meeting people and making new friends... and I am not going to complain about my pasty white skin that reflects the rays of the sun with a glare that would make Donny Osmonds teeth look dingy.

I am going to celebrate the fact that I am sitting on a sofa in front of a television and blogging.... I have figured out how to get my friend Nancy's wireless connection hooked up so I can get back to what is comfortable - being a couch potato! Oh, I have my coffee here too...

Last night I fell asleep on the sofa before 8pm, I went to bed a little after 10 and then woke up around 5:45... I could go to the gym - there's one up here where I'm house sitting... but I have my laptop and I feel good. Maybe this will be what gets me to quit eating so much... if my hands are busy I can't shovel the food into my mouth.

Okay, now is the time for pictures.
This is the house that I used to live in in Fremont. When I was working my temp job last week I walked over there and took a few pictures. I was 21 when I lived there... if you are a math wiz you will figure out that that was about 19 years ago. (Crap I'm getting old)!



Here is another picture of the Pirate (Mr. Wormy)... he was sitting up for treats last night and I tried to take some pictures of his trick. A fly decided to buzz around so he got distracted..

Now that I'm comfortable you will be hearing a lot more from me!

- I've been thinking about stories I can use in my artwork... about my quest to find true happiness only to be dashed by a lack of information and communication... I'll tell you all about the story of my coffee delivery to Doug at a later date.

Visiting with Dad...

I went over to help my father with some organizational items today.... it took a bit longer than expected but that's okay.

There are some very interesting things that happen when you live in a "retirement" community. Near the door of my father's apartment was a small wooden object that looked sort of like a door stop. It's was far from that... It turns out that when you go to your apartment for the evening you stick this little doo-hickey out under your door so it can be seen from the hallway. It means that the apartment is occupied. In the morning if you don't remove it by 10am the staff will come knocking to make sure you aren't dead. It's kind of funny in a twisted sort of way... but hey, I think I would want to be found if I was dead.

I wonder how the people who have to open the doors feel when they know they might be encountering death... I guess they're probably used to it.

right foot...

this morning I am off to the chiropractor again. I've been a bit stiff but hopefully this visit should clear things up for a while. I got a call from another temp agency and have an appointment to go see them on Thursday. It will be nice to be on a few radars so I can start paying off those bills.

Pirate is doing fine, he decided to wake me up at 5 this morning... I gave him some treats and then closed the door. Currently he is trying to cough up a hairball (It didn't come out though...).

I should get a move on if I want to look pretty for my adjustment.

Hello bling!

It's now official. I have bling. My gold crown was (installed?) put in this morning.... I haven't been able to chew on the left side of my mouth for a while... I've missed being able to chew with wild abandon.

I went to the gym after the dentist... I'm trying to work off all those carbs I had the past few days. Vegetables? what are those?.. I've been feeling sort of blue lately... it will turn back around... it always does. I need to get out more - that would cheer me up.

The day after...

I was going to try and be good and not overdo it when it came to eating yesterday.

I failed. but it's another day and I will get back on that horse and try to ride it out of town... (that sounds sort of dirty..).

I have one thing to say to people out there online looking for love. Please know how to spell and run a spell check before you submit anything for public perusal. I'm not going to go out with you if you can't spell "very" or differentiate "they're" and "there" or "you're" and "your".

Today I am washing dishes at church again. I will go to the gym and work out... I have to work off that Peanut Buster Parfait I ate last night....

What the???

Okay so nothing too exciting to talk about here... it's another week of trying to track points... trying to make myself go out and meet people... trying to get a little action (okay - so I exaggerate on that last item of action)...

I revised my profile on Yahoo Personals and opened it up for people to see. I have had a lot of views but I am not going to fork over money so I can talk to people.... there was a cute guy with tattoos on his calves who looked at my profile. I looked at his... if he were to email me I might spring the ten bucks (or whatever it is) to talk to him.

or maybe I'll just go stand on the corner with a sign that says "date me".

Mr. Wormy says good morning.

This is the Worminator - otherwise known as Mr. Wormy or Pirate.

He is a pretty good cat... doesn't make too much of a fuss and he asks to be let outside and then meows at the door when he wants to be let back in. Too bad I can't find a man with those qualities...

Today I am working and then it's off to the gym and then I am working at church washing dishes for a wedding. I better look okay - you never know, there might be single eligible men there... (even though I'll be in the kitchen...).

In search of...

the perfect fish taco.

Lately I have been having hankerings for fish tacos.... it all started back in Chicago with the Burrito House (one of my favorites)... and has continued onto the Rock Bottom Brewery Mahi Mahi tacos (pretty tasty)... the Blue Water Taco Grill (so-so) and today with Tacos Guaymas... it was pretty good too but I can do without the white sauce...

If anyone has suggestions for fish tacos in Seattle let me know. I am thinking I will be going to Taco Del Mar soon but I think they bread their fish and I probably don't need the extra points that are inherent with breaded anything.

how about those Mariners...

I must admit I did miss looking at all those cute ball players.... not that the Cubs are unattractive... but there's just something about those M's. Ichiro has very nice forearms.

This morning at the gym I saw a very nice looking man... I stared him down.... maybe he'll be there tomorrow.... too bad I looked like crap.

I have to get a move on - I don't want to be late. Wormie (Pirate) the cat says hi. I take some photos of him and post them later.

Have burger will travel...

I had a very yummy burger for dinner (I'm sure it's worth more points than I want to think about).

This afternoon at lunch I took a walk around the neighborhood where I used to live. I took some pictures of the house I used to live in... it's too bad I didn't appreciate it as much when I lived there.

Man I'm feeling old today. I guess that's it... sorry I'm not more exciting.

Should I stay or should I go now?

I am contemplating weather or not I should go to the gym. I'm sitting here - tired... I just want to go back to bed.

I am working again to day and then I am off to Edmonds to house sit for my friend Nancy. I worked with her a long time ago at the first Law Firm... she had quite the reputation (and she was very proud of it).... if we knew then where we'd be now.... She's starting an MFA Writing program in Vermont. It's a low residency program so she'll only be gone a few weeks a few times a year.

I think maybe I'll just hang out on the sofa for a while... I can always go to the gym later.

sorry to keep you hanging there...

my wifi connection was down today in addition to me being very busy.

The day started out with me taking my momma to have cataract surgery... I just dropped her off because I had to go to work...

I spent the day organizing files... it wasn't too bad... I am a bit rusty when it comes to using a PC though....

I will update in the morning but I need to go to bed now because I'm pooped.

Thank you Jesus.

I have a temp job for the next few days. It's going to be helping a sole practitioner clean out some files. It's in the Fremont area of Seattle.... they have some nice grocery stores there... I might have to do a grocery store field trip while I'm there.

Productivity is my middle name...

okay - really it's Lynn but for my purposes today it is Productivity.

I am going to take the time today to read my financial aid information and do my exit interviews so I can gets me my diploma!

I might also take a shower.

I have clothes!

and a new razor... (boy, were my legs starting to look scary!).... I have all my things and my futon is living in it's new room... I don't know If I can get a wireless signal in there so it won't be like old times when I could sit/blog/drink coffee all at the same time.

I will post the picture of the police car later (it came after the movers arrived - long story)...

I went to the gym tonight to work off the fish and chips I had for lunch today (they were good, but not as good as Spud!).

I finish my housesitting gig tomorrow and then start a new one on Wednesday.

I guess that's it for now. More tomorrow.

Where's my stuff?

Oh that's right... it's arriving today (my stuff that is). The movers are supposed to come sometime this morning. It will be nice to have something different to wear. I'm tired of the same workout clothes - I need a change.

My studio supplies are in there too... maybe I will work on something art-like finally....

here are a few pictures of Stinky and me...




She's the one in the brown.

Well, maybe I'll do something productive today. We'll just have to wait and see.

Saturday's all right for fighting.

Good news. I weighed in this morning and I was only up .8! I guess all that working out is paying off. Now I just have to reign in the emotional eating.

After the meeting and our coffee I went to the gym. I tried the step class again but my knee wasn't going to agree so I just hung out on the treadmill. I've decided that when I choose a specific piece of equipment I will take the one next to the cutest guy using that type of equipment. This morning I chose the treadmill next to a really cute guy... did he talk to me? No - but hey maybe someone will eventually notice my stunning beauty.

Someone in Washington DC really likes me...

Who are you?

The only problem with being able to track who visits your blog is not knowing who they are.... (sometimes I can tell other times I can't).

This person must like me. They've were reading for over two hours.

Are you single?

Ummm...

I'm thinking that maybe I won't eat everything in sight today. I will try to keep everything in check... I will not let anxiety rule my life, I will not let other people bring me down...

Maybe I'll try to find a leash today and take Tucker out for a walk. She doesn't like to go on walks - she will just wait there until you drag her. She makes a good dust mop.

Last night at first Thursday was pretty low key. I saw a few things that I liked - Ron Lambert at the Catherine Person Gallery was pretty interesting. He works with video in sculptures.... there were some nice plaster forms with mylar and inkjet prints... the craftsmanship was nice.

The show at SOIL was called Crud. I will have to go back an look again at it... I think I liked it though.

When I was walking through the galleries I was trying to envision where my work might fit and I haven't quite figured that out yet. Actually my work will fit into Crawl Space just fine I think... I have to set up a studio visit with them.

Okay - it's official. This is my last week of sitting on my ass feeling sorry for myself. I have to start working again and applying for things. Two weeks is long enough for having a pitty party / vacation.

Okay, I feel better.

rollercoaster...

I wish the mood swings would stop.... I guess I just have too much time on my hands.

I know eventually things will even out and it will feel "normal" again.

Today is first Thursday, I'm going to head downtown tonight and check out the shows and stop by the newly remodeled Seattle Art Museum to see me some art. Hopefully by getting back into the groove of going to things will snap me out of the funk.

Nightmares and Horoscopes.

Last night I had a dream that I was trying to get on a bus to go somewhere (Chicago or Portland?) and after a long string of setbacks I get to where the buses depart and it was gone. I said some choice expletives and then I woke up. This is the first time in a while I have woken up and I can remember.

After the dream I thought about just watching the Today show and drinking coffee but I made the mistake of reading my horoscope... it explicitly said I should go to the gym and work out until I felt the burn - so I did.

This afternoon I am having lunch with Matt and Bryan... it should be interesting. I'm sure at some point we will talk about boy things (that is sex and lack thereof) I'm like one of the guys with them (well at least with Matt. Bryan will just have to deal)...



Chris sent me this picture of my Spuds experience... I'm still trying to work off the weight I've gained since I've been home... but I must say the emotional eating is getting the upper hand at this point. Things will work out, they usually do...

I am a bad woman...

I have done something I shouldn't have... I am evil... and I should be reprimanded.

My evil twin (we're talking Sybil here - is that how you spell her name?) made me do it. I can't be nice and friendly all the time can I? Heck no... (see I used the word "heck" there...). I'm sure eventually the goodness will make its way back to the surface, but for now it can just stay buried.

Training continues...

I must say that I have missed getting really sweaty. At the gym that is... I never pictured myself being a runner but I think I'm turning into one. I spent an hour on the treadmill this morning - half of that time I was running.

My meeting at the temp agency went pretty well, I just have to expand on my resume and have my references checked and then I should be good to go. The WW meeting went well too. The terminology is different here but I'll figure it out.

Today I'm off to my Chiropractor for the last time (hopefully) for a while - the budget can't handle much more - and then to visit my sister and baby model niece Katie. Maybe I'll take photos.

The lifting...

Okay here's a phenomena that I've never experienced before until last weekend... being physically picked up and carried someplace by a member of the opposite sex.
It's strange - I'm not quite sure how to handle these sorts of things.

Next time you see me try to pick me up and carry me... Hopefully it will work.

Teeth - who needs them.

I am off to the dentist this morning to start getting my crown put on my tooth. For those of you who may have forgotten, it's the tooth that I had the root canal done on earlier this year - to the tune of $1,200 and some change.... It sucks not having dental insurance but what is a girl to do?

I also have an interview at a temp agency. It's a floor below where I used to work so I am going to have lunch with my friend Terry before hand (if I can chew...).

After the interview I thought I would wander around downtown and then I'm off to WW to work. I'm a bit freaked out (but not too much)... I don't like not knowing what's happening or where things are... I'm sure I'll find what I need and muddle through the meeting.

On the artistic front I started writing down ideas - some which I can't share yet, but I'm sure they will reveal themselves soon...



This photo was taken on my last Saturday in Chicago. Karolina and my baby model niece Katie...

Sunday morning workout.

SO.... I woke up this morning at 5:30... I worked out (I ran for 17 minutes straight and it didn't hurt..) that's a good thing.

I just got back from church... some of the ladies asked me if I wanted to join them for lunch. I have plans so I had to turn them down.

I will remember to tell you all about senior citizens secret signals soon. It's kind of fun.

Step one, two, three....

I just took my first step aerobics class in over two years.... I think I'm going to hurt tomorrow.