Tami's Musings

Weigh In Wednesday

2012-01-26T23:53:00.000-08:00

It looks like all of this cooking for myself business is paying off. I am down another pound today for a total of 3 pounds gone in a 3 week period. This is actually pretty incredible for me, since even when I was losing weight on the plan before (or rather, my version of the plan, which was cheating myself), I rarely lost a full pound a week. So, I am hoping this trend continues. It is

I Hate Technology

2012-01-24T15:36:00.000-08:00

Alternate Title: I Do Not <3 Computers Alternate Title 2: How Technology Ruined Both My Day and My Appetite Alternate Title 3: Rage Against the Machine Warning - The following post contains a rant. The views expressed in this post are solely those of the author during the specific time period of 2:00 PM to 3:27 PM Pacific Standard Time and are subject to change at any given moment. By

Dieting Differently

2012-01-23T00:16:00.000-08:00

This go round with my diet, I'm doing a couple of different things. You know, besides the obvious: trying to actually follow the WW plan. I'm eating real cheese that melts like it's supposed to and half and half that doesn't have any partially hydrogenated oil in it. Fat free half and half is an oxymoron anyway, and I have little tolerance for morons. Instead of relying on foods that are

Back So Soon?

2012-01-21T16:06:00.001-08:00

I have yet again re-dedicated myself to my weight-loss... I know, I know... You hear that a lot from me, don't you? Well, this time I mean it. Okay, fine. So I say that a lot, too. Too bad. This broken record is going to keep on playing until at least 20 pounds have spun off. (That metaphor may have spun away from me.)In all seriousness, I had originally re-dedicated myself to the Weight Watchers

We All Scream...

2011-06-21T22:47:00.000-07:00

I don't even have words for this one... I found myself alongside this thing while driving through my old hometown on Saturday. Possibly the most effective stop sign I have ever seen.The eyes have it. And whatever it is they have, I do not want!Feel free to discuss...

Back on Track...Again!

2011-06-20T16:51:00.001-07:00

I knew I had a busy weekend chock-full of celebrations and temptations coming up for Father's Day weekend. Aside from Father's Day, Sunday is also my mother's birthday, and I had been invited to a graduation party at a swanky steakhouse. Since I just re-dedicated myself to following the Weight Watcher's plan and have been doing so well on it, I decided that I was not going to make excuses

Race for the Cure

2011-04-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

I have decided to participate in the 15th annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure this coming May, to do my part in the fight against breast cancer. I participated as part of a team last year, and decided to do it again this year. I started my own team, and am still hoping to get an additional 12 members signed up so we officially qualify as one. Please think about joining us! The event is on

Curioser and Curiouser

2011-03-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

I attended my cousin's wedding a few weeks ago in Fredericksburg, VA. It was a beautiful and touching Jewish ceremony (the rabbi was a really good speaker) and a lovely reception, and my cousin and his bride seem very happy. I wish them continued happiness together and hope to see them more often!(The toasts went on for a while, and were all very sweet, but I did catch the bride eyeing the

Disappointment

2011-03-05T19:27:00.000-08:00

I am disappointed in myself. I didn't finish a single scarf for the Special Olympic Scarf Project. The last state in need (VA, which I just returned from) has a receipt deadline of Monday, March 7. I was hoping to be able to finish at least one scarf today and send it to Alaska, whose deadline is the 9th, but they have received twice the number of requested scarves already. So much for that

Scarf Project Update

2011-02-21T22:08:00.000-08:00

If you read a few posts back, you'll remember that I was itching to start working on whipping up some scarves for the Special Olympics. I finally received my yarn (the ever elusive blue #886 from Red Heart), and settled on a granny square scarf to start with. Then I was reminded of why I love self-striping yarns:(Way too many loose ends!!If this was a book or a movie, I'd hate it!)Shortly after

A Dear John Letter

2011-02-17T21:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Tendinitis De Quervain, It feels like we just met, but believe it or not, you've made a huge impression on me in a very short time. You've also taught me a lot. For instance, I now have a much stronger sense of appreciation for my body, and have learned that I really appreciate my independence. That being said, I am afraid that I've also learned that it would be best for me if this

Crochet for a Cause

2011-02-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

You may have read in my last post that I have decided to whip up some scarves for the Special Olympics as a part of their Scarf Project. I mentioned how I had not been able to find any Red Heart Super Saver Blue (#886) yarn in stock at any of my local stores (I tried 4 different ones). Well, I finally broke down and ordered the yarn online through Joann last week. Naturally, I couldn't buy one

New Project

2011-01-16T22:21:00.000-08:00

I have decided to whip up some scarves for the Special Olympics. I actually found out about their Scarf Project last year, but never got around to doing anything with it. I found the site again this year via an ad on Facebook that appeared on my sidebar (how do they know me so well?). So, this is it. Fate, right?I will be contributing to the Northern California program. The events are floor

What's Cooking

2011-01-16T03:22:00.000-08:00

In conjunction with my new resolve to stick to my diet (which I was on for 2 successful weeks before Christmas, and then conveniently forgot existed until after the new year), I've been on a cooking kick. Laura is partly to blame for this, too, since she posted the recipe for this split pea soup on her blog. She found it on Epicurious. Instead of the linguica or andouille sausage that the

Nerd? Nope. Colossal Dork? Absolutely!

2011-01-05T22:24:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I guess the first lesson I learned last night was that one (i.e. me) should not attempt to configure technological devices after 10pm. Thank God for techie-friends! I need to put in a special thank you to Kyle and Kailyn, both of whom stepped up to the plate in record time last night to assist me with my woeful inadequacies!The second thing I learned was that I'm a dork, as evidenced

I'm Not That Nerdy After All

2011-01-04T21:44:00.000-08:00

Seriously. I'm as surprised as you are. But it's been proven.But first, a little background...this Christmas was a veritable technological windfall for me. Just like that Target commercial hinted, I was visited by Electronic Santa Claus. My mother gave me an e-reader, my brother Joe gave me a Garmin Nuvi 255 WT (GPS), my brother Tony gave me a Canon PowerShot S95 digital camera and my father

Ye Olde Catholic Guilt

2010-12-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

UGH – guilt. The life of a Catholic. Add in the Italian part, and it’s probably compounded…Today is the day on which we Catholics celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It’s a day of holy obligation. I know this, because the priest said so last Sunday. (For you non-Catholics, this means that there is a mass said during the week that we Catholics are supposed to attend – this

I'm back from Disneyland...

2010-12-01T22:53:00.000-08:00

...and woefully behind in my posting! So, while I think of something witty and brilliant to post about, I'll leave you with a small sampling of photos from the happiest place on Earth.The happiest breakfast on EarthMain Street all gussied up for the holidaysAnd finally, this little gem from the holiday version of the Haunted Mansion:Disclaimer - I did not take this photo...it was snagged from

Vacation Time!

2010-11-19T22:52:00.000-08:00

Yep, as of this evening, I'm officially on vacation. I took three days off of work to hit Disneyland with my family (luckily, my company gives the day after Thanksgiving off as a paid holiday anyway).It's going to be a busy week, too, starting tomorrow. Due to my usual severe procrastination, I haven't yet packed a thing...so, tomorrow will start off with a frenzy of packing, then a drive up to

Just in time for Christmas!

2010-11-15T22:57:00.001-08:00

Mattel introduces the newest innovation for aspiring doctors...it's "Sucking Chest Wound Barbie!" After the fairy tale ends, reality sets in...This toy is labeled "A Fashion Fairy Tale" and there appears to be ties to a movie. Based on this particular doll, I'm assuming this fairy tale was written by the Brothers Grimm.It seriously looks like her chest is exploding...and it gets worse. If

Cry for Help

2010-11-08T22:53:00.000-08:00

Pick a winner!Okay, it's a bit less of a cry, and really just more of a polite request. I have made 3 practice swatches of different mitred squares (see above). Which one do you like best? I'm personally leaning towards the stockinette stitch, because I think it looks the best. But, the garter stitch square is the easiest, and results in the squishiest and softest texture. I have decided to

In Honor of Election Day...

2010-11-02T22:34:00.000-07:00

...and without espousing any political opinions (this is my blog and I make the rules), would any of you out there allow your husband/wife to fill out your absentee ballot?A co-worker mentioned to me today that she and her husband both vote through absentee ballots, and she always just lets him fill hers out for her. ???? I'm sure my jaw dropped and my brows hit the roof when she said it. It

Chop Chop and Other Random Thoughts

2010-11-01T23:09:00.000-07:00

After all of my recent baking and the non-stop eating, I decided I need to hop back on the Weight Watcher's wagon. Yes, it's true, I do come to this realization at least once a week, if not more often. Regardless, this time the realization caused me to cook, or at least prepare to cook. One of my co-workers re-dedicated herself to WW last week (she calls it food rehab) and had

The Horror!

2010-10-28T20:52:00.000-07:00

Today, before I even had my first cup of coffee, I discovered the bane of my existence…and it's twin. Bane #1, thy name is Highway 37! More specifically, that stretch of the Mare Island Bridge right before the poorly planned out merge from 2 normal highway lanes into one lane of pure pain. Bane #1, you are entirely too isolated and temperamental for my taste, and yet circumstances beyond my

Why Yes, Fran, I Did Bake that Cookie!

2010-10-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

I baked all of these, too! All cookie cutters used were gifts from my Aunt Fran!And that was what I had planned to post about today anyway. Nice segue!As you may know from one of my previous posts, my new obsession is the Our Best Bites blog, where I found a tutorial for that pretty glazed icing look. And of course, since I had to have something to glaze, I needed a good roll out cookie recipe

Age Discrimination!!

2010-10-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

Boo! I heard a story on my local radio's morning show the other day that said the most common age for kids to stop trick-or-treating was 13. 13?! No way! I trick-or-treated into my college years, as did my Aunt and a bunch of my friends (I had to have someone to go with, you know). My siblings all kept trick-or-treating at least into high

Lips, Inc.

2010-10-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

No, I'm not taking you to Funky Town, but I couldn't think of a better name for the post, and now that song is stuck in my head. You are welcome.It was overcast and drizzly yesterday. A definite change from the crazy heat we've had lately. Since it was the first time in months that it wasn't hotter in my apartment at night than it was outside, I decided to take the opportunity to flat-iron my

Inspiration?

2010-10-16T18:27:00.001-07:00

My good friend Kristin is having a Halloween party in a few weeks and I've been looking at ideas for things to bring along. The party is really for the kids (her 2 year old, and bunch of others), so we're not doing anything that might scare the little ones. I'm fine with that, because I'm not too into all of those foods that look like brains and severed body parts. I have found a lot of great

Adventures in Entrelac II

2010-10-09T16:17:00.000-07:00

After my first foray into the world of Entrelac, I decided to give it another go with a better suited yarn. Luckily, I happened to have an old abandoned skein of Noro Silk Garden laying around. I had purchased the yarn with great things in mind for it, I'm sure...I just don't remember what those things might have been. Probably a one-skein scarf or something. I know that everyone raves about

Pain in the Eye!

2010-10-04T21:54:00.000-07:00

So...I got a new pair of glasses about 2 months or so ago. After a few weeks, I still hadn't adjusted to the new prescription, so went back in to have them checked. It turns out the prescription was wrong, and the prism hadn't been written down on what went to the lab for processing (i.e. my lenses made me see wonky - like my actual eyes do, only slightly clearer). The result of that was total

Bizarre Phone Call

2010-09-27T22:31:00.000-07:00

I just got the weirdest call on my cell phone. It was from a restricted number, so I almost didn't answer it, since all of my friends and family that would normally be calling me at 10:30 at night are programmed into my cell phone.So, wary to start with, I flip open the phone and say hello. The person on the other line doesn't give any type of greeting, but rather starts out with a question

A Few Random Questions and Comments

2010-09-26T20:36:00.000-07:00

I went to the grocery store tonight and purchased 11 items. After the cashier at the 15-items or less checkout line finished ringing up my purchases, I somehow ended up with 4 separate bags. Does that seem disproportional and/or wasteful to anyone else?If my freezer door has that rubberized seal around it's perimeter to keep all of the cold air in, then how did all of those ants manage to cross

Festival Time

2010-09-22T22:22:00.000-07:00

For a few years now I've been volunteering at the annual Walnut Festival in Walnut Creek. It's all Kristin's fault, as she is my connection to the festival...she had been on the board of directors for the Walnut Festival Association for a few years and got me into working with them behind the scenes. The Walnut Festival Association is a non-profit group that raises money for community projects

What a Crock!

2010-09-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

Fall foliage photo that I took in Denver, CO(My apologies if I've already used that title in the past...)Fall is coming, and it really felt like it today. It was downright cold by the time I left work this evening. Although Mr. Weatherman (name has been changed to maintain anonymity) says that it will warm up again soon, I'm already looking forward to switching to my fall/winter wardrobe. I'm

Sucked In

2010-09-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that I didn't blog much last week. My explanation? I got sucked into True Blood, Season 1. I had toyed with the idea of downloading the series from iTunes, but wasn't sure if it would be too gory for me, and didn't want to cough up the cash and then not be able to even get through an episode. I have read most of the books (I still need to read the last 2...), and they are

It's Official...

2010-09-13T20:07:00.000-07:00

I'm old.Yesterday was my birthday, and I can no longer say I'm in my early thirties, since I'm smack in the middle now. And who knew I'd start falling apart so fast only 1 day into 35? On Friday, I started experiencing some mild pain/aches at the base of my neck, between my shoulder blades, radiating mildly to my left elbow. I blamed (and still do) the ergonomically incorrectness of my current

Practice Makes Perfect...

2010-09-08T22:10:00.000-07:00

Or in this case, practice makes slightly better than barely trying...As you may know, I have a slight yarn addiction. This has led to an accumulation of yarn-related items, including fun little magazines with ideas for projects (and actual projects, too). While flipping through the latest issue of Knit Simple (it sounded like it might fit my very limited knitting skill level), I found the

Tinkering Around

2010-09-05T13:58:00.001-07:00

I decided to spend my long weekend at my father's house, and was lucky enough to have my boss come through on Friday around noon to tell us all to leave early. A good start to the weekend! For once, I was able to make it to Dad's in time for dinner.On Saturday morning, the local fire station was having a fundraiser and yard sale at the station. My father took my little brother over there early

Just Call Me June...

2010-09-02T22:35:00.000-07:00

...because I am just busting out all over. And in more ways than one. I was having one of those days where you know you're really not any heavier than the day before, but you feel like you've gained 10 pounds overnight. This is probably due to the fact that I actually have gained about 10 pounds over the last 6 months (or less). Add that to the fact that I was wearing a pair of pants at least

Blood-Sucking, High-Hopping Freaks

2010-08-30T22:23:00.000-07:00

(Alternate Title = "Banished!")No, this is not a post about True Blood, Twilight, or any other vampires...per se...Somehow, my indoor cat ended up with fleas. It's probably my fault for letting her out on the balcony occasionally, but maybe I can still blame the downstairs neighbors' little rat-dog (who is actually pretty darned cute). Of course, since fleas jump 5-6 ft, and I actually do leave

Adventures in Entrelac, part I

2010-08-29T22:45:00.001-07:00

One day a few weeks ago, when I was just this side of finished with the crocheted cables baby blanket for Moriah, but was itching for something different, I received my Knitting Daily newsletter from which included this video on entrelac knitting. I've always liked the look of this style of knitting - like a woven fabric without all that pesky weaving. Of course, I never tried it before since

Long time no see!

2010-08-26T21:23:00.000-07:00

Okay, I realize it's been over a year since I've posted here, but I've been thinking about reviving this here old blog... So, this first one is going to be short and sweet (like me, only not as short, and much sweeter).Over the last year and half, I've been pretty well occupied with the stress of my last job ending (phasing out the end of operations for the closed company) and 3 months of

Crockpot Cooking

2009-01-23T14:14:00.000-08:00

So, apparently I am not the only one of my friends currently going through a crockpot phase. My friend Kristin led me to The Crockpot Lady's website, which I must admit is pretty awesome. Right after I visited that site and started cracking up at the humor level, I found out that my friend Caitlin was on a serious crockpot kick, too, and sent the link to her. Anyway, the Crockpot Lady (Stephanie

Holiday Shoppers Beware!

2008-12-11T17:41:00.000-08:00

Also a warning to anyone thinking of getting short-term retail employment for the holidays. Who would have thought this is what the job might entail...http://www.contracostatimes.com/ci_11195127?source=most_viewedAnd in Marin County, no less! This just goes to show that money doesn't buy class, manners, or common sense!

Good Old Saint Nick

2008-12-05T15:19:00.000-08:00

Check out the headline of the article below:How inappropriate for those poor little kiddies!Okay, I know the article is really about how to explain to kids why they're not each getting their individual Wii because Mommy did a little too much investing in the real estate market...No, it doesn't actually say that - just that kids may be disappointed in their gifts this year due to parents'

Celebrity Collage by MyHeritage

2008-10-13T21:13:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Celebrity Collage - Vintage photographs - Historical photos

Last Chance!

2008-10-11T23:37:00.000-07:00

Well, I just wanted to get the word out one more time...and then you won't have to read any more of my appeals for cash (probably...). The StepOut to Fight Diabetes Walk is tomorrow morning. I have to get up extra early, which for me may be more of a challenge than the 6 mile walk itself. So, one last link to my donations page before I toddle off to bed. I have already set the coffee maker to

Steppin' Out, With My Baby

2008-10-08T16:58:00.001-07:00

Or rather, with Kristin's baby...The StepOut to Fight Diabetes Walk is this Sunday, and my friends and I are rarin' to go!My team's fundraising efforts have been going great! The team has expanded to 7 people (including Kristin's 5mo old), and with the expansion, our team fundraising goal was raised to $2,000. So far, with the help of all of you generous donors (you know who you are), we have

New Looks

2008-09-30T20:50:00.000-07:00

Firstly, I've changed the appearance of my blog a bit. I was attempting to get the new Layouts feature to work on Blogger, but for some reason didn't have the required Button where it is supposed to be. So, this may change again...keep posted.Secondly, I've decided that I'll be donating 1/2 of the proceeds from my Etsy sales to my Step Out to Fight Diabetes campaign. In keeping with that, I've

For Anne

2008-09-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

That's Kristin's mother-in-law, not my aunt.In any case, I've been promising to post this video of Kristin's daughter dancing, and I guess it's about time I did it. Here you go! (Isn't she adorable?)

PSA - Please Read

2008-09-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know that diabetes runs in my family. I always figured that if I ended up with any kind of serious diagnosis, that’s what it would be. My grandfather had it, my brother now has it, and I believe that a few members of my more extended family also had the diagnosis. I also know quite a few friends and co-workers that have been affected personally by this disease.Did you know that

Busy Weeks

2008-08-24T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hello all. Here's a bit of a madcap Monday post to catch everyone up on what little has been going on with me. I flew back to NY earlier this month for my annual family picnic, and got to spend some good times with my extended maternal family. I found out some interesting family history, like how my great-aunt was a model in Hollywood for a while before returning to NY and reconciling with her

True Story...

2008-07-18T17:01:00.000-07:00

I worked from home today, making Gracie one very happy kitty. Given my schedule of freedom for the day, I decided to take a walk around to the shopping center and swing back to the mailbox to get mail and reload my laundry card (no need to hoard all the quarters now - isn't technology nifty?)So, I'm walking back from the mailboxes, icy delicious Starbucks latte in hand, and this dude is sitting

Holy Crap, she's posting!!

2008-07-07T23:11:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I hope you all had fun long weekends and that none of you were forced to work over the holiday. I headed up to Sacramento for most of the weekend and hung out with my friend Kerri and her family, then spent Saturday with my Mom and the step-family.Lots of games were involved (card and board, not mental), and it was all quite fun. I have determined that my mother has a strong

Happy Birthday Mom!

2008-06-19T23:35:00.001-07:00

Today (June 19) is my awesome, supportive mother's birthday, so let's all wish her a great one!Happy Birthday Mom!!

Diet Revisited

2008-06-16T22:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's day one back on the diet - I tracked all my food today (did not get in my daily oil or all of my veggies, but at least I'm trying), and even...are you sitting down? I even exercised!!After last week's weigh in disaster, I decided that I needed to forcibly push myself back on track...I'm weak though, so not sure the wheels are firmly on the track yet. We'll find out if it moves or not

Random Rant

2008-06-12T20:15:00.000-07:00

Is it me, or are retail salespeople becoming more rude? Actually, I think I may be over-reacting due to the craptastic day I had at work. I'm sure tonight's Hallmark trip just pushed me over the edge...So, after an okay morning and a nice lunch hour, I received a litany of snarky emails from the boss, which soured the day. I hit the Weight Watcher's meeting to weigh in, and am now only 15

Hot Chocolate, Baby!

2008-05-28T22:28:00.000-07:00

I took another fun test over at OkCupid...(still addicted to those gosh darned quizzes), and it told me that if I were a beverage, I'd be hot chocolate. I kind of like this description of me...what do you think? (I ask, because some of you know me quite well...) Also, if you end up taking the quiz, let me know what it tells you.Your Score: Hot ChocolateIf you were a drink, you'd

Long Weekend

2008-05-26T19:23:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,I hope you all had a nice relaxing, or eventful (depending on what floats your boat) weekend. Mine was kind of relaxing, rather uneventful, and rather boring. I came down with a cold last weekend, and have been trying to kick it ever since. The congestion is mostly gone, my ears are nearly clear, but I'm still coughing a bit and my voice is decidedly lower. Urgh. So, I didn't go to

Shameless Plug

2008-05-17T16:06:00.000-07:00

Hey there everyone. I wanted to send an internet shout out for my friend (and cohort in craft crime) Moriah, who has just started her own Etsy shop: BeadyEyeLass. She has also started her own blog to go with it. She has reinspired me on the jewelry front. I've been making crocheted necklaces, but haven't listed any for sale, since I'm still trying to work out the best way to finish off the

Welcome to Nicholas

2008-04-28T21:16:00.000-07:00

It's baby-time around here, I think... I just got word that my cousin and his wife had a healthy baby boy yesterday afternoon. So, congratulations Chris & Jen! And welcome to the world Nicholas!

Don't Worry!

2008-04-27T01:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been away so long. I've actually been really busy, considering I have no social life... Long story short - my friend Kristin has been in and out of the hospital for the last few weeks with mild pre-eclampsia, and I've been helping her out with her wedding coordinating business. I took over 2 weddings that she had scheduled for this month - the first one with short notice (2 days!) in

Party Peeps

2008-03-25T22:55:00.000-07:00

Now we know what those crazy chicks do in the off season... On less crazy topics (or maybe more so), I just (seconds ago) received an invitation to my 15yr high school reunion. When did I get so old?? I want to go, but I'm not sure. When I went to the 10yr reunion, it was like I became that same insecure shy kid all over again. I've grown a lot since high school, but what is it about the

This one's for Joie

2008-03-12T22:43:00.001-07:00

Your Score: DENVER!You scored 34% Style, 18% Climate, and 48% Culture!You are Denver, Colorado. Denver is the largest city in Colorado, the state capital, and the seat of Denver County. It lies at the foot of the Rocky Mountains at the junction of the South Platte River and Cherry Creek. Today, Denver is an important communications, transportation, manufacturing, and agribusiness

Update

2008-03-09T16:40:00.000-07:00

I just realized that it's been a long time since I wrote anything in here. So, here's what's been occupying my time...I am a little too addicted to OKCupid, for which I completely blame Dagny. I created an account so I could take the Which Winnie the Pooh Character are You test (I'm Eeyore), and now I'm a test-a-holic. And I've pulled a friend or two down with me...You know who you are.They've

Origins

2008-02-24T00:41:00.000-08:00

Check out the quote I found here online: "The term altruism was coined by the 19th century sociologist Auguste Comte and is derived from the Latin “alteri” or "the others”. It describes an unselfish attention to the needs of others."Finally, I know what my last name means. I did have an Italian waiter once tell me it meant "this or that." I like the above better, since I can tie it to altruism.

I'm a Lady!

2008-02-23T15:44:00.000-08:00

No wait, just Lady:Your Score: LadyYou scored 28 Kindness, 68 Morality, and 36 Wisdom!A high level of morality and integrity is congruent with your personality. Your high level of justice and sense of how the world should be can make you seem snobbish or too black and white in your behavior and judgments. You may succumb to the fault of judging a book by its cover. Remember that

Don't Waste Your Time

2008-02-20T21:10:00.000-08:00

I watched Sofia Coppola's version of Marie Antionette this evening. Well...I am highly grateful that I didn't pay full price to see it in a theatre, or even to rent it! (God bless the public library.) I had read some bad reviews of the movie before watching it (quite a while before), but was still interested, because I thought it was a neat concept. History set to modern music. A lot of the

No Seriously...

2008-02-14T17:50:00.000-08:00

VD can kill you! (Or at least cause some physical harm...)BAD CANDY!Brings new meaning to "get the lead out." Yeah, I'm inappropriate.

Here it is again...

2008-02-13T21:31:00.000-08:00

I'll spare you all the annual rant, but wanted to drop in and say Happy Freakin' VD to all my buddies, attached or not. And, bitter as I am, I have a tiny little sweet side, so I took the below VD themed quiz. Sorry if it's a repeat...Your Candy Heart Says "First Kiss"You're a true romantic who brings an innocent hope to each new relationship.You see the good in every person you date, and you

Victory is Mine!

2008-02-03T23:20:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone enjoyed Superbowl Sunday, whether you were watching the game, or avoiding it. I went over to Kristin's, house to hang out and watch the game with her & her husband.I was actually paying attention this year, for once. And all because I joined the office football pool for the first time. I bought 3 squares, and didn't expect any return. But, this was the first time I had ever been

Financial Woes

2008-01-30T20:28:00.000-08:00

Alternately titled: "Why I will always be poor"I checked my online banking site before leaving work today (to see if tomorrow's paycheck had been deposited, which it had not), and went into the bill pay service to check the newest bills and schedule a few payments. My new electric bill had arrived and I almost had a heart attack when I looked at it. $113!! Did I mention that my apartment is less

Random Bits

2008-01-29T17:14:00.000-08:00

I may have been imagining things, or perhaps experiencing a sleep to waking hallucination, but I could swear that my cat Gracie looked up at me and winked this morning. You know, with one eye… Maybe she knows something I don't? I worked from home today, which Gracie seems to enjoy, since she gets all this extra attention from me. You know, I think she thinks it's a game to complete an obstacle

Jury Update

2008-01-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

I didn't realize so many people were waiting for the outcome of my jury status...Oddly enough, I received a few comments, and emails asking about it. So, here's the story. (Sorry Christyn, you've heard all of this already...)Yes, I got there on time...technically. Jury duty began at 8am, and I was parked in the jury specified lot by 7:54am (irritated already that it took me 15 minutes to be able

Holding Court

2008-01-16T18:50:00.000-08:00

Sort of...I need to appear for jury duty tomorrow. It's funny, because before I checked the court website last night, I had a very strong feeling that I'd have to appear. Much to my surprise, I was still on telephone stand-by. This was soon eclipsed by the losing of the keys incident.I don't so much mind that I have to appear...I suppose I'm due, since with the many summons's that I've

Panic at the Cubicle

2008-01-15T18:57:00.000-08:00

More like panic in the restroom, but I didn't want the title to give you all the wrong idea.I am a moron. Okay, maybe I'm being a little hard on myself. I should rephrase that with a less self-deprecatory slant... I make poor handbag choices.I'm writing this post from work, at 7pm. Yep, because I stranded myself here. Not on purpose of course. It's totally my purse's fault. My accessories

Vacation Update - Part I

2008-01-14T21:27:00.001-08:00

Hi all. Yes, I'm back from my vacation, but just now getting around to updating the blog. After checking all of the weather/traffic info last Friday, I headed out of my house around 3:45pm, after the worst was over. Unfortunately, after I was already on the road, Hwy 17 was closed down. It didn't sound like it would be closed for long, but it wasn't open yet when I got over to it. That was

Rarin' to Go

2008-01-04T13:33:00.001-08:00

Well, I had planned to leave around 1pm for the first leg of my journey...but the whipping winds outside my window have waylaid me. I decided I'd push it back an hour or two until the major advisories were lifted, and hope that none of my roads are closed. I re-checked the weather channel and the local/bay area traffic, and it looks like the worst has cleared, so I'm venturing out. Wish me

Count Down to Disney!

2008-01-02T23:20:00.000-08:00

3 more days until Disney Land! Uh, that's if I'm counting right...I believe our reservations are for the 6th-9th, but I'm off of work starting Friday, so I can drive down to my friend's parents' house. I'll be spending the night there before we all drive down together on Saturday.And no Dad...I haven't figured out the new GPS unit yet (um, it very possibly may still be in the box, just as you

Happy 2008!

2008-01-01T23:37:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had fun ushering in the New Year. Here's the only shot of me from the night with my friend Kristin, taken before midnight. You can't really tell, but the hats do say Happy New Year on them. And I'm trying to see if she's stopped making faces at the camera, which is the exact moment her husband chose to snap the photo. (I would have done the same, I am sure!)So - here's to a whole

The Happy Happy Snowman

2007-12-27T22:06:00.000-08:00

Merry late Christmas to everyone!In the spirit of Christmas, I headed out to Target today at lunch to see what was on clearance (well, really I just needed catfood, but since I had to go anyway...). All holiday stuff is 50% off, so I picked up some wrapping paper and ornaments, and while browsing the stock, my friend Christyn and I came upon what may be the world's happiest snowman. Now, we are

Bake-a-Thon 2007!

2007-12-17T20:57:00.000-08:00

I spent the weekend at my father's house, for a little (okay, a lot!) Christmas baking. My brother Joe came up to partake this year, so it was actually a lot easier, and we were able to get a whole lot done in 2 days. We made at least 9 different things (I lost count...and my leg fell asleep, so I'm not getting up to walk into the kitchen and check).Here are a few cute (if I do say so myself)

Would you like some cheese with that whine?

2007-12-06T23:12:00.000-08:00

Why do some people make everything so complicated?Everyone at work (okay, maybe 3 or 4 people, but it was enough) kept asking me if we were going to do a Secret Santa exchange this year. I ended up organizing it last year, because everyone wanted to do it, but no one else would pony up and make it happen. So naturally, people seemed to be waiting for me to take the necessary action again this

I'm Back!

2007-12-02T20:44:00.000-08:00

And apparently, I was missed. I wasn't off doing anything exciting or anything, the writing bug just hadn't hit. So...to recap:I spent Thanksgiving at my mother's house, which was fun. We went shopping at the outlet mall the next day (but unlike my insane mother, I did NOT get there at store-opening...I met her around 10:30am). I managed to complete most of my Christmas shopping, though I had

Howdy Y'All

2007-11-22T10:33:00.000-08:00

Just popping in to say Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you are all safe and warm with the ones you love today.As for me, I'm at my mother's house, counting down to T time (that T is for Turkey, that's good enough for me...).

Christmas Rush?

2007-11-11T23:14:00.000-08:00

So, I'm starting to wonder if that Christmas rush everyone talks about is going to hit soon. One of my co-workers asked me to bring my jewelry into work last Friday, so I put it all in a bag and decided to include the cards and crocheted stuff too.Everyone was duly impressed with the scarf and hat (Chloe and Talise), and I ended up selling Talise and getting a custom order for 4 scarves. Yay me!

Weekend Rants and Raves

2007-11-05T22:29:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I drove up to Sacramento to visit my friend Kerri. We decided to do something a little different, and hit a comedy club on Saturday night. We ended up at The Punchline. The headliner was Jamie Kaler, whom neither of us had heard of. Apparently he's been in a few things, including the TBS series My Boys (which I've never watched). Well, Kerri and I have decided we might have

The Head!!

2007-10-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

I'm really not that into Halloween this year, which is abnormal for me. I think it's because we're not making a big production out of it at work this year (you know, since there are pretty much no other departments still operating). I don't have any plans this year, and no costume. Though it's possible that some people from work may go out tomorrow. We'll see if that happens though.Anyway, in the

It ain't cool, being no jive turkey - so close to Thanksgiving

2007-10-27T14:35:00.001-07:00

Quick! Name that movie!I was browsing around Etsy when a treasury slot opened up, which allowed me to choose cool items from other sellers to feature on the site. So, I decided on a turkey theme, and that line came into my head. I think I picked some pretty nice items, if I do say so myself. If you want to check out my picks - follow this link. I've named it "Jive Turkeys."Take a peek, look at

FYI on CA Wildfires

2007-10-23T17:28:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've all heard about the wildfires raging through Southern CA. Here's a link to the official state site:http://www.calfires.com/I am happy to know that they are currently quite some distance from my own family (and family of friends) who live in the Thousand Oaks area (Northwest of LA). They appear to be inching closer to my cousin, who lives in Newport Beach, though. I'm not too

My underclothing is trying to tell me something

2007-10-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Yep. Specifically, my bra is crying out to me. Apparently it feels that it is ready for retirement. It decided to strike this afternoon by hoisting a picket sign. A pointy little picket sign in the form of an underwire protruding from the center of the bra and working it's way up the center of my chest. Don't worry, I put an end to the strike before the picet sign was visible above the neckline

PSA - Nutrition Labels

2007-10-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, I was shopping for portable work-friendly healthy lunch options this afternoon and saw that those Campbell's microwavable bowls were on sale for $1.77 a piece. Not bad, so I picked up my favorite (Italian Wedding Soup) and then realized they also had the Healthy Request version on sale. I'm not sure what made me do it, but I decided to compare the nutrition labels. Now, mind you, the

Lights! Camera! Lint Roller!!

2007-10-10T23:27:00.000-07:00

So, my little diva kitty just had to be a part of the action. After I had used the lint roller on the base for my newest creation, positioned the lights, lined up my shot and made sure Gracie was a safe distance away, I clicked and got this: "I'm all ready for my close-up, why are you pointing the camera over there?? " AKA - attack of the huge fuzz-monster.Really, I probably would've gotten more

Another Wedding

2007-10-08T21:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I helped Kristin with a wedding last Saturday. We ended up spending the night in Napa, since the bridal party/family were staying there, and the wedding was in Rutherford. Plus, we were still running errands Friday night, so it's better that we stayed local.Saturday morning I drove along Highway 29 to Rutherford. The sky was filled with hot air balloons (okay, not filled, but there were a

Still Wondering

2007-10-02T22:16:00.000-07:00

Well, she hasn't called me yet, so I still have no clue... But, I could have called her and didn't.I updated my sidebar with an Etsy Mini. So, if anyone is interested, it will be showcasing my four most recently listed items. I'm hoping to start adding things more often, but it all depends on my schedule, creativity levels (not always stable) and craft budget (not always adhered to...).Anyway, I

My Curiosity is Piqued

2007-10-01T20:18:00.000-07:00

So, I just got a totally random phone call from a friend of mine. Here's how it went:Friend: "Quick, I need your address. I can't talk - Dancing With the Stars is on. I'll call you tomorrow."Me: "Oh my God, you're sad." (Recited address)Friend: "Okay, gotta go - Call you tomorrow."That may be the shortest phone call I've ever had. And no, there was no hello. Luckily I was able to

Torn

2007-09-26T20:02:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's me. I'm torn. And what's the big decision? Why, thank you for asking!My dilemma is which of the 9pm primetime shows to watch tonight. There's Gossip Girl, which I watched last week when it premiered and actually enjoyed. On the flip side, there's Private Practice, the Grey's Anatomy spinoff. Now, I'm a HUGE Grey's Anatomy fan, and have been looking forward to the spinoff. But, I don't

Open For Business

2007-09-23T23:03:00.000-07:00

Well, this weekend I finished setting up my Etsy shop. If you want to check it out, here's the link: www.bytami.etsy.comI'll be adding a link to my page soon, but I spent today at the Walnut Festival and need to get to bed. I've only listed 7 items so far, but hope to add to it relatively soon. Eventually, I would like to add some of my crocheted items (I set it up with a crochet section, but

My Very Own Personal Hero

2007-09-21T17:21:00.000-07:00

I’ve been working on the jewelry thing lately and have noticed that my cat is mesmerized by beading wire and pearls. I’m using a bead board to lay out some of my designs before stringing them, and this usually ends up on my lap as I work. So does the cat. This has posed a bit of a problem, as she is not content to sit idly by admiring my handiwork.Nope, not my Gracie. The freshwater pearls

Happy Birthday to me!

2007-09-17T21:59:00.000-07:00

Well, some of you may have noticed that I went AWOL last week. I haven't really felt like blogging, so I haven't done it. But, to catch you up, I turned another year older last week (Wednesday was my birthday), but as usual, don't feel any different. Birthdays just don't seem nearly as exciting as they used to when I was little.My co-workers decorated my cubicle at work with streamers and happy