Center of Gravity

Reboot

2009-12-01T05:19:00.000-08:00

If a blog has been post-free for almost a year, does that mean the site becomes new again? Like if you don't have sex for a long time, do you become a virgin retroactive?

Let's find out if anyone gives a damn and begin the posts anew. Stay tuned, if there is anyone out there that is tuning at all....

-COG

Shameless Promotion

2009-03-29T18:27:00.000-07:00

I figured if anyone still reads this page (highly doubtful since my last post was a looooonnnnnnnngggggggg time ago), you might be interested in a site I created to house my photographs.

If you have time on your hands, please visit http://mysilverlake.smugmug.com and check out my little hobby. Thank you, and good night!

-COG

Thank tha Lawd for DVR

2009-02-09T18:17:00.000-08:00

I was able, through the magic of DVR, to watch the entire Grammy telecast in about an hour. The show itself was 3 hours and 33 minutes (so my DVR told me), so without the miracle of technology there was no way I would have sat through that commercial ridden, self-congratulatory awards fest. Although this year seemed different. It was more a show of concert performances with a few awards scattered in, which made it seem more relevant than it has been in many years.

Like most Grammy shows, it's all about the performances. Even though the voters seem hopelessly out of touch (Hey, I'm hip! I voted for Robert Plant! He's the lead singer from that hair band!), they usually do a bang up job on booking exciting musical guests. This year was no exception, although the sound seemed off for most of the show (this could be ATT&T's fault since I've been having issues with the sound on my recorded shows).

My favorite performance of the evening? Had to be the "Rap Pack" of T.I., Jay-Z, Lil' Wayne and Kanye West with M.I.A. Girl had the most balls of all of them, getting up on that stage ready to burst with child and still KILLING IT. I know she got a lot of flack for what she wore, but f**k that. She had the stones to give an awesome performance with her kid crowning, for christ's sake. Swagga like us, indeed.

I also have to appreciate the pairing of the young-ens, Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus. I can't believe I'm paying a compliment, let alone a musical one, to Cyrus. But wonders never cease. She sounded decent (if trying a bit too hard) and the duet sounded generally lovely. Maybe there's hope for the future yet.

Kanye West and Estelle killed it with American Boy. That was one of my favorite songs of 2008, and I'm glad Estelle is getting some mainstream love in the U.S. I had to search the internet high and low to download her album about a year ago, so it's nice to see her all over. Give that single a listen. I dare you not to shake your butt and get your groove on. Impossible to sit still.

I have to admit, I'm just not hip enough for Radiohead. I know, I know. They are such critical darlings, but I haven't purchased their music since Pablo Honey. No wait, I did get that album with Fake Plastic Trees on it. So there, I'm a bit hip. But if a band's music is too dense for me, it's damn dense. Don't get me wrong, I don't consider myself a Mensa music member, but I do have a couple of I.Q. points to my name. And I like to unwrap lyrics like a present, and I like when they aren't easy to get (hello Indigo Girls, holla out to you!), but In Rainbows gets a pass from me.

Even though I don't want to admit it, I did enjoy Justin Timberlake with T.I. as well. It doesn't hurt that the song they performed is one of my favorites off of the album Paper Trail, "Dead and Gone". This album was close to my favorite of 2008, pretty much in a tie with Kanye West's 808s and Heartbreak. Sorry, Kanye, I know you like to win but I'm pretty sure you could give a crap about COG's opinion anyway. Though you should...you should my friend...

That counts my Grammy highlights...what were yours?

-COG

I told you it was me...

2009-01-30T20:10:00.000-08:00

A new year is supposed to be a time for new resolutions. Apparently keeping up with my blog posts did NOT make the list this year, as this is my first one of 2009 and it's almost February. Don't hate the player, hate the game!

I've had some posting inspiration from my friend Lil' J for 10 random thoughts. The original idea was 25 random thoughts, but I'm not a deep thinker so I'm sticking with 10. I might have done something similar a while back, but none of you have that kind of memory so I think I'm safe. Here goes:

1) The Pistons need to dump some dead weight. And by dead weight I mean Allen Iverson. Joe D, I hope you kept your receipt for that one.

2) I'm not a cold weather girl. It's been in the basement of the deep freeze here since Thanksgiving, with no end in sight. Look up Seasonal Depression on WebMD and my picture appears in the Related Links.

3) My photography has hit a plateau. I need to find some inspiration for a new set of pix! Post some ideas in the comments, faithful COG reader. And keep it clean.

4) We need to find a place to vacation this year within the U.S. We need to go around the July 4th holiday, so again post some ideas in the comments.

5) I am thankful for my friends. Most people would be lucky to have just one friend of the caliber that I have. I can count over half a dozen that have my back and I have theirs. I don't take this for granted.

6) The older I become, the sexier I feel.

7) My job is something I do to earn cash for our vacations and fun stuff. I would quit tomorrow if we had the income.

8) Still can't run regularly because of my back and hips. This depresses me, but I'm trying hard to find fun, alternative exercise in lieu of it.

9) I'm a nerd that does crossword puzzles; cross-stitch; and I'm trying to learn to knit.

10) And for Lil'J....if you're not first, you're last! (fist bump)

Hope the new year is treating you well...

-COG

By popular demand....

2008-12-07T16:53:00.000-08:00

I know, I know. I haven't posted for a LONG TIME. A REALLY LONG TIME. Well, due to popular demand of all the COG fans out there (all one of them), I thought I'd drop a line.

It's not that I haven't been thinking about you. I have, I swear! It's just....me. Not you, it's me. I haven't been inspired to write a thing. What's that you say? COG has no words of wisdom about the presidential election? No pearl of truth to share with the masses? Well, if John McCain had one, I would have had post fodder for at least the next six months. But I got my way, so I got nothing on that one.

What about the "Bail Out" of the Big Three, you say? I can sum it up in two sentences. Necessary, but give the money with strings attached. And it's not a bail out if you have to pay it back (I'm looking at you, AIG).

So I guess the point of this post is just to wish everyone out there a wonderful holiday season. May your celebrations be full of good food, good friends and family, and good cheer. Count all of your blessings, as we know that 2009 might hold more hardships for us all. Be thankful for the love in your life, and count how rich you are without taking stock of your bank accounts. The good stuff in life means so much more than that....happy holidays, guys.

-COG

Let me 'splain. No wait, let me sum up

2008-09-30T18:12:00.000-07:00

So I can't keep my hole shut any longer on this $700 billion dollar bail-out. By popular demand (ok, just my mom), I'll let my two cents (a lot less expensive than the bail-out) out there on the internets for all to see.

The big question everyone is asking: Whose fault is it? Why are we in this mess in the first place? Is it the banks? Is it the government? Is it the mortgage companies? Is it me? Is it you? Is it my dog? The answer to all of these questions is a resounding YES.

Let's start at the top. The government. Or as I like to call it, "Don't ask don't tell as long as we're fat and happy". How is the government to blame? Well, as usual, they started this mess. About 10 years or so, the government started this big push to "promote" homeownership among the American people. To achieve this goal, they (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac) loosened their credit lending guidelines so that more of the population fit into said guides. Now granted, not all banks and lenders out there sell their loans to Fannie, Freddie or FHA. But most DO underwrite their loans by their guidelines so that those loans are easily transferable on the markets. How loose did these guides get? Let's take an example.

Say it is 1992 and you want to buy a home. You apply for a mortgage. The bank asks for one months'worth of paystubs from your job, W2s for the last 2 years, and 3 months bank statements to prove you have enough money in the bank to cover two mortgage payments (on top of the 5% you are putting down). They also require that your total housing payment can't be more than 28% of your gross income, and that your total debt doesn't exceed 36% of your gross income. Fast forward to one year ago, 2007. The bank asks for maybe one paystub (to prove you still have the job you say you do), no W2, maybe a bank statement (if you are actually having to prove any assets). You might be lending money on a program that doesn't require any of these things. Heck, the program might not even require an appraisal on the house to prove it's worth! So, step number 1 in a financial free-for-all: Loosen credit guidelines.

The next group to blame? The banks, mortgage companies and mortgage brokers. Because the government allows such loose credit guidelines, the home lending folks take advantage of them! Imagine that! And, in the name of customer service, they put their borrowers into loans that don't require any documentation of assets or income! Just because, you know, borrowers don't want to dig around for their last paycheck or God forbid, their last W2. It also doesn't hurt that, because the borrower is now putting ZERO MONEY DOWN OUT OF THEIR POCKETS, they can afford to pay more in closing costs and a higher rate. So the loan originator makes more money. Does the lender have a moral obligation to place the borrower into a loan that makes sense for that person, to "Do no harm" to their credit? Absolutely. Did they do that? Hell no. Step 2: Allow greed to overcome common sense.

Lastly, I'd like to place the blame squarely on the shoulders of the American people. The average American has been spending money like it gives them a rash, and taking every bullshit financing opportunity that is offered to them. You're going to increase my credit line by $20,000? Ok, I'll take it! And I'll use it to buy a new snowmobile! The bank allows me to have a mortgage loan payment that is over 50% of my gross income? Sure! It's not MY fault, the bank said it was ok! News flash, people: no one is going to take care of you financially (or any other way) but YOU. Except for a few small exceptions (the elderly, or mentally challenged folks), most of us understand that we are over-burdened with debt. That we really can't afford the things we have. That we should be saving our money for an emergency or for the future. We know this, yet we don't do it. Step 3: Bury your head in the sand.

In conclusion: Everyone, from the government down, is to blame for the current poop sandwich we all have to eat. Learn to save your pennies, spend wisely, and quit pointing fingers at the other guy. I hear ketchup helps to swallow the sandwich...

-K

The space between....

2008-09-04T15:54:00.000-07:00

Is apparently not enough. Just found out I have a herniated disc between my L5 and S1 vertebrae. From what I understand so far, those two vertebrae (for me) have a smaller space than normal (and also smaller than the rest of my spine).

So, right now I have to put on my Patience Pants and let the physical therapy do its work. For those of you that personally know me, you realize what a challenge that is going to be. After asking the therapist how long this will take to heal, I believe the phrase "weeks or months" came out of his cake hole. If he wasn't such a nice young kid I would've kicked him with my good leg. Plus, I can't run right now so he probably could have gotten away. :(

I realize that I'm a bad patient. Or rather, emotionally I'm a bad patient. Mostly those that come in contact with me would say I'm handling this with a sense of humor and resignation. But that isn't how I feel inside. Right now I would say I'm a functional depressed person. That is, I fulfill my work and social obligations, but I'm not very happy right now. The thought of doing something that requires effort is just too much to bear, let alone do. So right now I'm a lazy SOB, and I reserve the right to be one until I recover from this bullshit.

The End.

-K

Done for the season

2008-08-10T07:23:00.000-07:00

A small running update for all you COG readers:

Those of you familiar with this site know I've been dealing with back/hip pain for a few months now. Well, last week I had terrible back spasms that prompted Mr. COG to load me in the car and drive to the urgent care. After a shot in the hip, I went home and to my bed. I woke up a couple hours later, back feeling great but the sciatic nerve in my left leg HURT like hell.

The next morning, we were back at urgent care. Another shot in the other hip (which didn't really touch the pain) and a trip up to the physical therapy center. The therapist couldn't even complete his baseline assessments b/c I was in such pain. I missed three days at work, and now 7 days later I'm just starting to feel a bit comfortable.

Needless to say, my running the 10 mile race on August 23 is not happening. And really, the half marathon in October is also now in jeopardy. I have mixed feelings about this, as I've really struggled this year with my running. The therapist recommends mixing up my exercise so I can rebuild my core strength, so I think I'll ease off running a bit a mix in something else.

Knowing that this pain will pass has made it better. I don't know how people with everyday pain can function after a while. I'm totally impatient and hate lying around, but muscle relaxers help my attitude. Especially when they're washed down with a margarita.

-K

The things we base our decisions on...

2008-07-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

I know we are all guilty of this. We sometimes base our decisions on irrational logic. Be it from a past bad experience, or just trusting our "sixth sense", we all have made choices not based on facts or reason but on some crazy line of thought.

For example, choosing a name for your baby. You might kick around a few ideas with your spouse. The conversation might go like this: "How about Britney?" "Ugh, that reminds me of Krazy Britney Spears, no way". "How about Shiela?" "uh, no. I knew a girl named Shiela once. She was a bitch". And so it goes until you narrow it down.

Or maybe you don't want to try this fabulous new drink that the restaurant is offering, because you once had a VERY bad night with tequila and she is NOT your friend and just the THOUGHT of having a small TASTE of that drink makes you throw up in your mouth a little. (This is not from personal experience - Ed.)

But those examples are understandable, if not entirely logical. When it comes to an important decision, like buying a house, or investing your money, I assume most of us use some kind of reason. Or logic. But I have a deep seeded fear that most of our voting population in the United States does not have that same logic when it comes to picking a president in the next election.

I was watching the nightly news not long ago. They were interviewing voters in the state of North Carolina. A state that is mostly pro-McCain. So the interviewer was asking random people who they would vote for. If they answered Obama, then the interviewer would ask the person what they didn't like about McCain. If they answered McCain, vice-versa.

The interviewer was talking with a man, I would say his age was roughly 40 years old. Looked like a blue collar worker of some kind, maybe a factory guy. He stated that he would vote for McCain. So the follow up question was why he didn't want to vote for Obama. The man went on to say that he had HEARD (not seen for himself) that at one rally some months ago, Obama didn't put his hand to his heart when they raised the flag and played the national anthem. In this man's mind, this proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that Obama was not patriotic and didn't love the United States like he thought a president should. Now, could he tell the interviewer when this incident occured? Nope. Could he even tell him where he had heard this information? Nada. So based on pure conjecture and rumor, this man decided how he was going to vote in the next presidential election.

I'm not sure if this allows me to shoot people like this, or if I'm going to just have to shoot myself and get it over with.

-K

It doesn't happen to me

2008-07-08T15:11:00.001-07:00

Here in COG world, we had a medical wake-up call last week. My sister, my best friend, the one that will cover my ass no matter what...had a series of small strokes. The doctors say she is fine. No permanent damage; no harm no foul.

But it really hit me hard (she says, selfishly). My sister is the one to prop me up when I'm down; the one to take me out for a drink to celebrate good times (and forget bad ones). She is generous to a fault, and is the truest friend anyone can have. A hard worker, supportive of friends, and a mama bear when it comes to her family. There would be a gaping hole in my family fabric if she were not here.

My sister is a bit older than me (no need to name numbers, for both our sakes). When I was young, she was a mother figure to me. She was the one that dressed me in the latest fashions before kindergarten, she was the one that braided my hair in those funky Heidi braids that were popular in the early '70s. She was the one that taught me how to apply my makeup, she was the one that taught me how to put in a tampon, and she was the one to tell me to "brush your damn hair, it looks like a mess".

As I grew older, our relationship shifted from the mentoring kind to the kind of friendship that only sisters can have. We can confide our fears with each other; we can confess our weaknesses; we can celebrate achievements together and we can prop each other up with encouragement. I can honestly say there is no other relationship like the one I have with my sister. I love her in so many ways, I don't have enough fingers and toes to count them. So as I sit here, typing with tears on my cheeks, I just thank God that she is safe. That she is here and will continue to be here for a long time to come...

-K

The Beat Down

2008-06-22T06:49:00.001-07:00

Reports state that the Lakers arrived in Boston Friday night for Game 6. Too bad the game took place on Wednesday....

OHHHH! Did you see it?!? Did you see the beat down?!? Now THAT'S how you tell Kobe Bryant to f**k off! Even my nephews b-ball team could've provided more defense than those tired Laker boys, and most of those kids don't top 5'10". The Celtics were able to cut through the lane like a hot knife through butter, and those LA bitches didn't even put up a fight. YES!

Ahem. (Smoothes the hair). On another note, ran about 3 miles yesterday. Although it was a bit tough, I pushed through it until about 1/10 mile left. Had to stop the jog or would have pooped my pants. For those of you non-runners out there, this is (from what I understand, and if Mike lied I'll kick his ass) a common occurence. Basically, as I run, my insides act like when you shake a pillow case up and down to get the pillow to fit. The pillow eventually falls to the bottom of the case. Well, my insides feel mighty uncomfortable when I'm unable to poop prior to a run. Which was the scenario yesterday. Fortunately, I was done with the run by the time this hit so I made it home. Whew! It was a great day for a run, sunny and not too hot so all in all it was a nice experience.

Hitting the links tomorrow (yes, Monday) for a charity golf outing, so I'll be sun burned and hungover for work on Tuesday. Whee!

-K

Why do I run?

2008-06-10T15:45:00.000-07:00

I'm sure I've lost any small amount of COG readers I had with the long delay between posts, but here goes:

I had an interesting conversation today, and really a post by fellow blogger Lisa made me think. Lisa had run in the Bayshore Marathon over the holiday weekend, and due to some miscommunications, had no friends or family at the finish line to cheer her across. It disappointed her, and rightfully so. It made me remember my first race experience.

I was entered into my first 5K last year (almost a year ago this week, actually). I was excited about running, anxious about finishing and really just geeked about the experience. It was a Race for the Cure event, which anyone familiar out there can tell you that the attendance is in the 35K+. My family and friends were walking the event, and I was the sole runner. And since it is a female bonding event for myself and my friends, Mr. COG was at home.

The morning was sticky and hot, but after some perserverence I was able to see the finish line. The running finish line is separate from the walkers (as the walkers would be too much of a crowd for someone that is running to get through). So at this event, there was a small crowd gathered at the end to cheer us runners on. But, for my first running event, not one of those faces was familiar.

As I crossed the finish line, I felt a bit of a letdown. I mean, if a tree falls in the forest but no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound? Well, after a moment of feeling disoriented, I asked myself "Why do you run?" (I was exhausted, so I may have said this out loud). Is it so that someone else can be impressed by my achievement? Is it to show others that I can accomplish something I thought was impossible? Well, yes...but no. It was at that moment that I realized that I run for me. No one else, just me. So all the events I've run since then, it heartens me to see someone I know at the finish line, but it isn't the reason I crossed it in the first place. Finishing a race nurturs ME.

On an unrelated note...Go Celtics! If my beloved Pistons had to lose, at least their defeators can go on to win it all. And, I can't stand Kobe Bryant.

-K

TCB

2008-05-18T16:23:00.001-07:00

Just a quick post to wish you luck, give a shout out and update you all.

First, the good wishes...My thoughts are with you all that are running the Traverse City Marathon this weekend. I had originally hoped to run in the half, but the registration filled up quick and my back problems compounded that issue. Run swift, run sure and have lots of fun this weekend. I'm with you every step of the way. And Mike, I know in me bones that this is your BQ weekend. Go for it!

The shout out...to Larry B! It was great to see you this weekend and catch up, and I was really surprised to learn you are a COG reader. Very cool! You look great and sound happy, and that is all one can ask of this life. Hope to see you again soon. The wedding was a blast, eh? And sorry about the Cavs this afternoon. There's always next year once they trade Wallace for a real power forward. Maybe they should call Dwight Howard? I hear he's a little disapointed with his season...

And the update...I'm slowly getting back into the running. Emphasis on SLOWLY. Running every other day, trying to make sure I'm smart about it. My aerobic strength has dropped significantly in the 8 weeks I've been inactive, so I'm building up my distance in baby steps. Doing a couple of miles every other day until that is done with ease, then building up another mile, etc...until I'm back at running 6 - 8 miles on the weekend for my regular long run. I have a goal to run the Crim in August (yes, Mike P, I'm signing up for the 10 mile), and I've already signed up for the Detroit Half this October. How's that for optimistic?

Be careful out there, and Go Pistons!

-K

Vacation - YES!

2008-04-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

I'm typing this message to you as a relaxed, rejuvenated blogger. Mr. COG and I just returned from our week vacation to the fine state of Tennessee. We spent time hiking the Smoky Mountains, driving the Mini on the Tail of the Dragon (Google it), and just hanging out.

I'm now on a trip for business, but will finally be home soon to get settled in. Mr. COG was left with the laundry basket and as a conselation prize, the remote control. I'm sure he'll be just fine without me for a few days...

Some of you may or may not know that I am a die-hard Pistons fan. As I was waiting for my (delayed) flight last night, I watched the first half of Game 4 with the Sixers. I thought for sure that Detroit had once again f**ked up, didn't show up, and was going to lose. Much to my surprise, I find out today that they actually won the game. For a team this good, why do they have to let the first round series go to 6 or 7 games? Two words: LA-ZY. Their sense of entitlement to a championship kills me every May/June. They won in 2004 b/c they had a ginormous chip on their collective shoulders, but haven't been able to replicate that fire since then. Mr. Billups (et al): No one is going to hand you dick shit. You need to work for it, and the talent pool has gone up considerately since last year. Don't be the team caught flat-footed and showing your age. This is going to be one of the last opportunities for you to capitilize on these 5 starters, so you damn well better put forth the effort. Your fans are tired of the laziness shown (I'm looking at you, Rasheed Wallace) and the lack of enthusiasm. Take a lesson from Antonio McDyess. The guy breaks his nose, flies to Detroit for surgery and is back in Philly for the next playoff game giving it his all. Antonio for MVP.

-COG

Running Update

2008-04-17T16:33:00.000-07:00

Hi there, faithful COG reader! Just a quick post tonight to update you on the progress of my back. Looks like the bone doctor has straightened me out (literally), so I've taken the first tentative baby steps to get back to running. Did a light jog for about 2 miles last night, and it felt great! Different, but great. I can tell that I'm using a slightly different set of muscles in my legs now that my hips have been corrected, so it is a bit of a struggle right now until I get back into shape. But I'm back on track! Have a drink to celebrate, and I'll post soon!

-K

I.O.C. is D.U.M.B.

2008-04-07T17:09:00.000-07:00

Today's post is a rare political rant. I sometimes just can't, no matter how hard I try, ignore such gross negligence and act of stupidity that is the 2008 Summer Olympics. Let's count the blunders so far:

What item on China's application for Host City could have possibly convinced the IOC that this was a good idea? Was it their blatent neglect of the environment? ("Hey, that yellow smog brings a certain Je ne said quoi, non?) Or the human rights atrocities they've commited both against their own people and their enslaved peoples of Tibet? ("They're all a bunch of whiney babies") Or perhaps the fact that they haven't generated their own original ideas in hundreds of years, choosing instead to rip off well known designs and produce cheap knock-offs that are sold on street carts and at Wal Mart? (No snarky comment needed).

It has been reported that several runners are not participating in the games for fear that the air quality will cause health problems and affect their performance. I'm sure they won't be the last group of athletes that decide not to go, but I'm sure more will be boycotting for political reasons. Although running several miles through asthma inducing smog does sound pleasant, doesn't it?

The Chinese government is trying to spit-shine everything and everyone within a 50 mile radius of the Olympic stadiums. Daily practice for citizens include: how to stand in a line in an orderly fashion; having "no spitting" hours; teaching "western-style" manners for airline travel. Isn't going to a foriegn place mainly for the purpose of learning about a new culture? For God's sake, it is what it is. Just leave the poor (literally) people be themselves and the world might be charmed.

Now the Olympic torch won't even be able to complete it's world tour because of protests. In Paris, the torch carriers were attacked and had to complete the route on a bus. In San Francisco, imaginative and intrepid protestors actually scaled the suspension cables on the Golden Gate Bridge to hang "Free Tibet" signs that could be viewed for miles. I say, way to go! Not so much on the Paris attacks, but the spirit of the protest in general.

Why celebrate a nation with that kind of human rights track record? And environmental impact? Are the 2014 Winter Games being held in North Korea? Or the Summer 2012 Games in Somalia? Way to go, IOC. You've outdone yourselves on this one...

-K

Broke Back Update

2008-03-19T16:33:00.000-07:00

Well, dear COG readers, I have good news and I have bad news about the back:

The good news? The pounding I'm taking at the chiropractor's office (hey, that actually sounds fun!) is working. I found out a few things about my bones that were news to me. For one, my left leg is about 9mm shorter than the left. My hips are twisted slightly so that they aren't square. And my #5 vertebrae is fused to my tail bone (apparently it is supposed to be free-moving). Since I started treatment, I can actually stand straighter, so that is a GOOD thing eh?

The bad news? I can't run for about another 3 or 4 weeks. Doctor wants me to give it a rest while he moves me bones around a bit. The worst part is that when he finally gives me the running green light, I need to start off on the treadmill to reduce the shock to my hips. Ugh.

So I'm going to go on an eating strike until the running is back on the calendar so I don't put on all the weight I lost in the past year. Wish me luck, and eat a few extra carbs for me!

-K

Feeling broken

2008-03-10T15:38:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you are feeling a bit out of sorts today from the pre-emptive time change (feels like a premature ejaculation, Father Time get thee a Viagra); the long extended winter (Mother Nature, get thee a Xanax); and the (still) wacky presidential race (insert pun about Uncle Sam here).

To add insult to this myriad of injuries, I'm feeling broken and broke down. My chronic lower back problem has struck again. Not as bad as the famous Back Ache of 2006 (lower back muscles pull hip out of socket, did I mention we were in Mexico at the time? Fun stuff!), but a nuisance and inconvenience nonetheless.

As long time readers of COG know, I'm a fledgling runner that just passed my first running anniversary. I couldn't celebrate by running, however, due to the back pain. So this time I'm trying something different and seeking chiropractic help. I've never seen a chiropractor for anything before, and I do approach it with some skepticism, but desperate times call for desperate measures. And I'm developing a sneaking suspicion that these back troubles are some kind of structural problem with me.

So dear reader, cross your fingers...I find out Friday if they can fix Quasimodo...

-K

How Do I Quote Thee? Let me count the ways...

2008-02-26T16:26:00.000-08:00

I've always wanted to be one of those people that could quote Shakespeare, or James Joyce, or passages from The Bell Jar. One of those smarty pants that could come up with the most appropriate quote from a high-brow source that just fit the occasion and made me look smart. Unfortunately, there are only really two sources of material that I dip in to for those quotations that cover life. The first is a wealth of quotes that apply in so many situations: The Simpsons.

My favorite Simpsons quote? It would be a toss up between Homer's "Alcohol. The cause and the solution to all of life's little problems" and Bart's "This both sucks and blows." The latter really applies at work.

But the source of the most quotes I can milk from? Why, The Princess Bride, of course!

"Inconceivable"

"My name is Diego Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die."

"Anybody got a peanut?"

"He's MOSTly dead."

"Tis a pity to waste a perfect pair of breasts such as yours."

"Sleep well, my friend, and dream of large women."

"Never engage in a land war in Asia."

"Humperdink, Humperdink, Humperdink."

"ROUS. Rodents Of Unusual Size"

"To the Pain"

"Hi pretty lady!"

I really could go on (and on). So this is the highest quote level I can achieve. Fortunately, my friends appreciate such a level, and they come in handy at parties. Keep warm, and put your favorite all time quote in the comments y'all.

-K

Farewell, cruel world!

2008-02-07T18:26:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to post for the last time, fair reader. Soon enough, my arms will fall off; my back will seize; and my ass muscles will never recover. No, no. I've not had the best night of my life with Mr. COG (as he is on a business trip this week). You see, dear reader of COG, Mr. Cold Meiser shit about a foot of heavy wet snow all over my yard. And I've spent about 3 hours today shoveling the 75 foot driveway. By hand. By myself. Because the snowblower wouldn't toss that crap for anything.

Did I mention that I'm sick of winter? And oh, by the way, we're getting 3 more inches tomorrow? Sorry, 3 inches doesn't impress me as a measurement with ANYTHING. Especially snow and male genitalia. I think I'm changing my mind on New Year's resolutions: I resolve to reside in a warm climate.

-K

Laziness - a benefit? or a negative?

2008-01-29T17:45:00.000-08:00

Well, since the dial-up connection is moving at lightning speed tonight, I decided to do a quick post. Yes, Mr. COG and I still live in the dark ages of dial-up. The reasons are there for another post. Suffice it to say, it mostly involves a major grudge with the cable company.

I've been perusing my fellow bloggers'websites tonight. And I've come to a realization about myself: I'm lazy as hell. I read about you all raising children, going back to school, starting a new career, and still having time to blog and have a social life. I have my limitations, and I am not these people. I function quite well at my job; I (mostly) stick to a workout/training routine; I manage our finances and clean the house. But this is the extent of my responsibilites, and the extent of my motivation and capabilities.

Mr. COG and I have no children, so I don't have to come up with the energy to take care of a sick child or worry about their social development or smack them upside the head (proverbially, of course) when they mess up. We (Mr. COG and I) have a nice, healthy relationship that is zero source of stress. I don't spend time fretting over our financial situation, I don't lose sleep over how to manage my time.

My major point here? I really belive God gives you what you can handle. And he knows that I won't paint my nails (so they are in nice condition all on their own); I don't know how to "do" my hair (so it looks pretty good in a natural state). He knows that my stress level is just right for me. So why do I feel like such a slacker?

-K

Meme-ries

2008-01-17T16:09:00.000-08:00

I've taken up a toss from Animal on the meme about privilege. As Animal, I too have never really thought much about the quality of my childhood. Not on purpose, just never had a scarring event or bad memories to ruminate. So I shall try my hand at it now. The items that are bolded apply to me, the non-bolded...not so much. I also need to give a shout out to "What Privileges Do You Have?", based on an exercise about class and privilege developed by Will Barratt, Meagan Cahill, Angie Carlen, Minnette Huck, Drew Lurker, and Stacy Ploskonka at Illinois State University in order to acknowledge their copyright on this meme...

1. Father went to college. Nope. My father worked for the first 30 years of his career at a factory job and the last 13 or so in a white collar environment on a project developed by General Motors for quality. Not going to college is something he regrets never having done.
2. Father finished college. See above.
3. Mother went to college. Again, nope. Mom had her hands full dealing with 4 kids and keeping the house together while my dad worked his ass off.
4. Mother finished college. See above.
5. Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor. This one is true. My cousin was a city attorney for many years.
6. Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers. This was a bit unclear, but I assume the intent was whether or not I was in the same financial class as my teachers and I would have to say yes.
7. Had more than 50 books in your childhood home. And all of them were probably mine.
8. Had more than 500 books in your childhood home. Probably not, although if my mom had allowed it I would have gotten my hands on that many. I was a voracious reader as a kid and teenager.
9. Were read children’s books by a parent. I don't really recall anyone ever reading to me as a child, but either way it didn't lessen my love for books.
10. Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18. I had a couple of clarinet lessons privately, but they didn't help. I still sucked.
11. Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18. Nope.
12. The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively. Since I have no strange tatoos, piercings or hair color not found in nature, I suppose this is true.
13. Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18.I had worked at a credit union starting at age 16, and I was able to get a credit card just before going to college. I used the card to charge my books for the semester since I couldn't afford both tuition AND books.
14. Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs. Nope. My college education was 100% self-funded. This was a great source of worry (and probably a small ulcer) over where my next semester's money would come from. Basically, I held at least 2 jobs at any time during my college career. The biggest asset I had was a Resident Assistant job that payed room and board. I actually cried the day I got the job b/c I knew I wouldn't have to worry as much about staying in school.
15. Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs. Nope, see above.
16. Went to a private high school. Hell no.
17. Went to summer camp. Again, no.
18. Had a private tutor before you turned 18. Nope
19. Family vacations involved staying at hotels. I think this did apply in a couple of instances. Most likely on those road trips to Florida that we took 2 days to accomplish. I also remember my mom freaking out about germs in hotel rooms, so this wasn't necessarily a treat.
20. Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18. This one is a for sure no. I shared my bedroom with two older sisters until the age of 14. We had a communal closet with it's own motto: The first one up is the best one dressed.
21. Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them. My first car was a hand-me-down two tone 1977 Chevy Caprice Classic. Large enough for me and 14 of my closest friends.
22. There was original art in your house when you were a child. This would be bolded if hook rug craft projects made by my grandfather count as "art".
23. You and your family lived in a single-family house. All 6 of us in a 1200 square foot, 3 bedroom colonial.
24. Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home. yep
25. You had your own room as a child. This was true, but only during the most important teenage years (15-18) after my sisters had moved out. My parents didn't bother moving the furniture around, so I kept the room to myself. Otherwise, no one had room to themselves.
26. You had a phone in your room before you turned 18. This is also true, but by default. My bedroom was the only one on the upper level with a phone jack, so the phone had to be in my room.
27. Participated in a SAT/ACT prep course. COG don't need no prep! COG got a 30 on her ACT!
28. Had your own TV in your room in high school. Not only did I NOT have a tv in my room growing up, I've NEVER had a tv in any bedroom I've owned since then.
29. Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college. nope
30. Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16.I did take a trip to Florida that didn't include the grueling drive. Once.
31. Went on a cruise with your family. nope, never been on a cruise.
32. Went on more than one cruise with your family.
33. Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up. I don't think my parents avoided these places on purpose. I just think they relied on school field trips to enrich my art experience. I did drag my father to a Degas exhibit a few years ago. I think he agreed to go to be polite.
34. You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family. I was certainly aware of the cost, but unlike Animal, didn't have to chop wood. My dad bought cords of wood that were dropped off on the driveway in the fall of every year.

Going back over these answers, I feel they give the impression that I had a poor childhood. Nothing could be farther from the truth. My parents encouraged me to be independent in both actions and thoughts, and allowed me to explore ideas on my own. I didn't have to "inherit" a love of books, or art. I was able to develop (or not) these appreciations on my own. Thankfully I did, and I still have a big appetite for learning things. And the reading...that's still an addiction as well.

-K

You say you want a resolution....

2008-01-05T13:52:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2008 all! Mr. Gravity and I had a great time over the holidays, and over all Santa was good to us.

I know that every year many of you have a resolution. To resolve to improve in some way. Maybe you want to lose weight, maybe you want to get a better job, maybe you want to swear less (hell no!). I'm going to do what I do every year: resolve to not make a resolution.

Why, you ask? Is COG lazy? Is she perfect already? (yes, and YES). No, the truth is I don't want to disappoint myself come February or March. And get ready to gag a little, but I try to be a better person throughout the year and not just when it's time to buy a new calendar. So my continual struggles, no matter the season? Weight loss; fitness; eating better; being less of a bitch (unless the situation calls for me to bring the Bitch. Then it's fine.)

On a completely different topic, I'd been meaning to give a list of music that I really loved/hated in 2007. I was inspired by reading so many other top 10 lists (and disagreeing with them) that I thought I would give 'er a try. Remember, these are love AND hates, and in no particular order:

1) Back to Black, Amy Winehouse - the whole album. The sound was different than anything else out there (which I give immediate props to, even if I hate it). Her voice is phenomenal. And the production of each song is top notch. Well crafted and moving. It sucks that her personal life is a train wreck right now, and I hope she pulls it together before there is no more genius from her in the future.

2) Umbrella, Rhianna - This one falls under HATED IT. Or more precisely, I couldn't figure out why it was such a big hit. I had downloaded it from ITunes after hearing so much buzz on it and was disappointed with it. A much better and bigger tune for summer was Beyonce's "Crazy in Love" two years ago. Girl could tear it up...Rhianna? Not so much here.

3) The Reminder, Feist - I would recommend about 50% of this album, the track that everyone knows from that IPod commercial would be #1 for me ("1,2,3,4"). Her voice is thin, but the melodies are unique and lyrics are pretty impressive.

4) Missed the Boat, Modest Mouse - I did like some other tracks from this album too, but Missed the Boat is my favorite. The lyrics are GREAT. Witty, self-deprecating...two things you don't see very often from pop music anymore. Bonus points for naming the album "We were dead before the ship even sank".

5) Grace Kelly, Mika - I'll recommend the album this track is from for the whole family for the pure joy of it. Unironic, not some bullshit self-aware "too cool for school" pop. This is someone bringing music from a place of pure joy. The attitude is similar to They Might Be Giants, and the fun is contagious.

6) Nickelback - HATE them in general, but I hate them in the same way that I hate Matchbox twenty. They have songs that are stupidly catchy and all sound the same, but damn if they don't appeal to a huge audience. Those Canucks sure know how to make a buck. Their album has been on the damn charts since 2006 and it's still hanging on with the new single "Rockstar". And the worst part? I actually LIKE that f**king song. Grrr.

7) The Dutchess, Fergie - GUILTY PLEASURE ALERT! GUILTY PLEASURE ALERT! The songs are insipid, poppy, and lyrics are on a fourth grade reading level (she even spells some of the words FOR you). But Ms. Ferguson must be doing something right, because this album has been charting since 2006 (that's right, over 13 months ago). The only positive thing I can say about these songs is that I use two of them on my running playlist (Glamorous and Fergilicious).

8) The new Bruce Springsteen - Forgive me, Mike P, but I'm too damn lazy to go to Mr. Gravity's car to get the case and find the name. And, since it has been permanently glued in Mr. Gravity's car cd player since Santa dropped it in his stocking last week, you can get the idea that it is a return to classic BRRRUUUUUCCCEEEEEEEE! Mr. Gravity is a classic Bruce fan, not a fan of Dust Bowl Springsteen or 9/11 Springsteen. So he is a true litmus test for another record if, Mr. Springsteen, you are a great COG fan and are reading this blog. Give us a jingle.

9) Growing Pains, Mary J Blige - it's a good one. Almost as good as No More Drama, but not quite. Mr. Gravity is a huge MJB fan, so the cd player test really doesn't apply here. The overall message is positive, the beats are hot, and Mary really hasn't sounded better.

10) I've run out. No #10. See, it's kinda hard to impress me musically. You need to be on your lyric game, and deliver it to me on an innovative melody. Anyone have a 2007 recommendation? Hit me up in the comments...

Happy New Year, bitches!

-K

Bamboo shoots and water torture

2007-12-27T14:20:00.000-08:00

Are both preferable than the BORE-dom I have at work this week. How many websites can I hit in a day? Turns out, quite a few...any web suggestions for Snoore-fest Friday?

-K

P.S. On a running note, I've been a lazy pig since December 23. I've resolved to continue my lazy, non-running streak until January 2, just to treat myself before I buckle down on the "sticks and twigs" diet and training for the next half. I doubt I will make it that long w/o lacing up the shoes, but I'm going to try my best! Everyone needs a goal...mine is sloth. Happy New Year!

Be careful out there

2007-12-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

Over the past weekend, I had a reminder that we as a human race really need to care for each other. I don't mean to get heavy on you all, but let me tell my story:

Sunday in Michigan, we were literally SHIT on with snow. In our area, about 10" (not man-inches, but real inches) of snow. Mr. Gravity didn't venture out to try to tackle the job of snow removal until about 4pm. While he was outside in the (very) cold and blowing snow, he noticed our elderly neighbor across the street. Struggling to start an antique snow blower. Repeatedly pulling the cord, and repeatedly getting no response. So, Mr. Gravity did what I hope we all would have done: He took our machine across the street and began plowing their snow. He stopped a bit to look over the machine with the neighbor, and resumed the work. I noticed this from our front window, and decided I would pack a few Xmas cookies in a bag and bring them over along with some hot cocoa for Mr. G to warm up with.

While I was serving Mr. Gravity his hot beverage, Elderly Neighbor Man motioned for me to come into the house. Elderly Neighbor Lady was at the kitchen table, attempting to send out Xmas cards. I say attempting, because little did we know but she had a bad fall at a local grocery store a few weeks ago and had just returned home from the hospital a few days ago. Her legs have been very weak, so she can't walk very well; and her arm and hand have numbness. They have no children that live nearby, and ENM has been trying to do all of the cooking and housework since ENL has been down. We found out that if the snow hadn't been removed, the home care worker that gives ENL her therapy and shower wouldn't have showed up the next day. Mr. Gravity and I spent the next hour or so in that kitchen, sharing my cookies with the neighbors and enjoying a nice strong cup of coffee courtesy of ENM.

They both had wonderful tales to tell. They have been married since 1950. ENM was in the Navy and had traveled all over Europe and North Africa. ENL had nice stories of her children, and they are expecting their 6th great (!) grand child this April. ENL was so thankful that we helped with the snow; when we were in the kitchen alone (while the boys were still working outside), she became choked up and emotional. My heart went out to her. I'm sure she and her husband are proud people, but the emotional toll of being injured (especially around the holidays) has to be great. I have to admire a couple that can persevere together. To work together as a team once their individual abilities start to diminish. I learned some great lessons Sunday afternoon about marriage; and aging; and personal pride.

My message is this: Just take the time to look out for your neighbors. Take that risk to reach out to a stranger. You may be rewarded in ways that money or math can't quantify. Happy Holidays, all...

-K

It's the most, stuffiest time of the year!

2007-12-11T16:27:00.000-08:00

Here's a small trip to hell for you:

Sinus is blocked because it is too dry in the house. Run the humidifier, wake up with an even more clogged head b/c sinus is getting used to the dry air. Unblock ears by pinching nose and blowing, commence sinus infection.

I love winter.

-K

Every team needs a weak link

2007-12-02T08:25:00.000-08:00

The decision has been made: Mike P, I accept your invitation to the Steers Long Distance Project. Bayshore 2008 Half, here I come!

-The Weakest Steer

My nemesis

2007-11-24T13:40:00.000-08:00

All of you close, personal friends of mine know I have few enemies in life. Yes, I have a low tolerance for fools, but rarely do I have an individual so evil and malicious that they are put to the enemies list. As a matter of fact, this list is a list of one.

Ahab had Moby Dick. Popeye had Brutus. And I? I have the Furnace.

It isn't this furnace in particular, really. I guess I could lump them all into one group: Furnace. As in Muggles, or Rappers, or Republicans. They are the Furnace Mafia. Because my relationship with this group didn't start with the bastard one down in my basement...

It started off with the furnace in my first condo. It would perennially go out every winter, usually on a Friday night after I'd come home from a night out 'round midnight. On a night when temps were in the 20 degree range. I could set my calendar on that damn thing. And because I had a small place with a furnace in a tiny room off the kitchen, it would sound like a freight train was rolling through my living room every time it fired up. So, after spending a few nights with my oven door open for heat, I looked forward to moving to a newer home with Mr. Gravity. And a newer, less problematic furnace (so I thought).

The first winter we moved in here, the furnace stopped working on a December afternoon one Saturday. Turns out, the belt on the motor completely seized up. But, because I do occasionally learn from my experiences, I do have the furnace insurance from the local gas company. So for a nominal monthly fee, they are on call to fix the damn thing. This visit, the repairman was here for 3 hours banging on it with a mallet to get the belt off and ended up having to come back in the morning to finish the job. If not for the insurance, the repair would have cost me over $800.

Since that time, the furnace likes to go out once a year. I think it's some sort of contract with the Furnace Union that follows people like me wherever I reside. So, we've had bad starters; dirty igniters; and the latest one, some bad ignitor wires that weren't sparking the pilot light. Of course this last example, the Furnace exacted some revenge on Mr. Gravity by burning off half his right eyebrow and singeing off some hair. There is a rare moment that makes you want to both laugh and cry, but hearing a large boom in the basement and then seeing your husband wander up with a dazed look and smoke coming from his head is DEFINATELY one of them.

Don't be a victim of the Furnace Mafia. Protect yourself. Get a radiator.

-K

Once in a lifetime opportunities

2007-11-21T10:58:00.001-08:00

I've had two things happen to me in the past few days that require a post. One was surreal, the other just plain fun, but both made me appreciate my family.

My nephew is 18 years old and in a Christian rock thrash metal band (whew!). He had a gig on Sunday at a dive bar that I used to frequent when I was not much older than he is now. So, Mr. Gravity and I drove out to see him perform. My sister (his mother), and my brother also came. But the kicker? My parents came to this hole in the wall to see him perform. They are in their late 60's, and TOTALLY do not understand this type of "music" (their caption, not mine). But there they were, supporting my nephew M and his band. How many kids can say their grandparents watched them perform thrash metal in a dive bar? How many grandparents would go? And appreciate the performance? I think they knew going in that M wouldn't be playing country music or easy listening, but I have to appreciate the open minded attitude they displayed. I can only hope that when (God willing) I reach that age, I can show my family the same love and respect.

The other thing was my niece E turned 21 last night at midnight. So her aunt K took her out for her "official" introduction to the legal nightlife. We had a ball, just her and I, having drinks and chatting up strangers and dancing. I'm very grateful that she wants to hang with her aunt, and that we are able to turn this relationship to a friendship as we age. Again, it was just plain fun, but also something I can appreciate and remember for a long time.

Happy Turkey Day!

-K

Hier ist mein meme

2007-11-16T15:21:00.000-08:00

Hi all! Tech issues again, blah blah blah...but I won't let it keep me down, no sir! All for Fun Guv...

So, a week late but hopefully still worth doing...here is my list of 8 random things (thanks, Animal):

1) I can make my right eye go in a different direction than the left if I rub my eye just right. Good party trick, not one that is easily attained but is super creepy when done right. Marty Feldman rules!

2) I absolutely HATE to eat raw tomatos. No slices on my hamburger, no chunks in my salads. Now on the other hand, I love salsa, spaghetti sauce, ketchup and cooked tomatos in my food (chili or stir-fry). Weird, I know. I think I've narrowed it down to a texture thing. Raw tomatos are squishy; like the texture of sushi. Can't stand sashimi either.

3) My secret guilty pleasure is entertainment magazines/tv shows. I'm all over People mag, Life&Style, US, OK and E channel. I'm fully informed on the latest celebutard; the latest DUI arrest; the secret "Is he gay or isn't he?" rumblings. These people make me look like a Noble scientist, and I like feeling superior to their Stupid Human Tricks. Plus, most of them are hot.

4) I am the oldest person in my team at work. Just found this one out today, actually. So basically I work with a bunch of sarcastic, The Office watching young punks. I am 36. So I've taken to prefacing my meeting comments with "Grandma thinks we should..." I've found this pretty effective in cock-blocking the young guns. Needless to say, I have to lock my computer every time I walk away from my desk. Or the entire management staff will be receiving an email from "me"declaring my love for the guy in the next cube.

5) I have a love/hate relationship with pizza. My basic attitude about pizza is that it is like sex: any kind of pizza is good pizza. The hate part of this relationship is the calories. I'm watching my weight (watching it stay the same mostly) and trying to cut calories when I can. Of course, 2 slices of pizza are about 900 calories or more. The amount I want to eat? Easily tops 1500. My daily allotment is 1841 for the day. You do the math. Pizza, you delightful devil...I love you, man.

6) The next door neighbor's dog needs to be rescued, but I'm allergic to dogs and I can't steal him b/c he's next door. The poor thing is left outside for hours at a time (regardless of the weather). He cowers and barks at any human but me. I'll call him to the fence and he'll come running gladly for a little scratch under the chin, but if there is another person with me he'll put down his ears and back away. I'm betting the father over there kicks that poor dog, because he is especially afraid of men (Mr. Gravity). I don't have any hard proof of abuse, but as soon as I do the Humane Society is getting a phone call.

7) I love the Foo Fighters. They are one of my favorite bands. Hard rocking, but not always. But always growing musically. Pick up the latest CD Échoes,Silence and Patience. You won't be disappointed. I really think that Dave Grohl was stifled as part of Nirvana and is a great talent in his own right. Prolific, but doesn't produce junk. Go ahead, argue with me in the comments.

8) I love to spoil Mr. Gravity. It makes me happy beyond belief to buy him some gift (small or large) and surprise him with it. He is such a great person, and I'm lucky to have found him and bagged him. Hopefully I can fool him in to sticking around for 30 more years...wish me luck!

Thanks for the blog fodder, Animal. I'm out!

-K

Absence makes the heart grow fonder

2007-11-09T14:00:00.000-08:00

Sorry my loyal blogging fans (Fun Guv) that I haven't posted in a while. Without too many details, I had technical issues that are too boring to blog about. Really, really boring. I'm getting sleepy just typing this. Seriously.

I promise to pick up Animal's challenge of 8 random things in the next few days. I've also got new blog fodder about my long time nemesis for a new post.

In the meantime, just a quick observation. I've recently changed positions (in a non-sexual way) at my work. New wing, same floor (maybe if is WAS in a sexual way, it would've involved a raise). Well, the bathrooms in this area use those automatic scent dispensers to cover up any foul oders in the corporate toilet. Except, this dispenser shoots out something that smells like a cross between a bowl of Fruit Loops and the inside of a children's chewable aspirin bottle (orange flavored, natch). Really, I've got issues doing my business in the midst of all that fruity goodness. It's a bowel-stopper. It has cork capabilities. No wonder there are more cranky people around here...

-K

Fooled you, fooled you!

2007-10-22T06:28:00.000-07:00

I did it, bitches!

I. Did. It.

Ran 13.1 miles (ok, walked some of it too).

The ugly stats:

Final time of 3:02:31 (I'm taking off 10 minutes that I had to wait for a potty in Windsor)

Overall place: 4583 out of 11058 (not dead last!)
Gender place: 2500 out of 5560 (still not dead last!)

The experience was INCREDIBLE! I will do that again next year, you bet. The highlights:

1) Standing in a crowded corral sharing my nervous feelings with a younger runner on her first Half as well;

2) The smell of fresh tortillas cooking as I ran through Mexican Town;

3) Running across the Ambassador Bridge as the sun was coming up over the horizon;

4) Having a guy yelling "Welcome to Canada! Tim Horton's is around the corner!" as I came to the other side of the bridge;

5) Running the first half of the marathon with NO WALK BREAKS. My first break was the aforementioned potty break around the halfway point in Windsor;

6) The guy dressed as Mr. Incredible in the full costume running near me;

7) Running through the tunnel. Yeah, it was like running through a locker room after football practice, but the downhill run to the center of the tunnel was much needed;

8) Seeing Mr. Gravity at 12.5 miles. I had to walk miles 10-12 due to my hip flexor cramping up, but as soon as I saw him I had the strenth to run to him;

9) Mr. Gravity took my hand and walked with me for half a mile towards the finish;

10) Turning the corner and seeing that finish line. I ran strong for that last .3 miles and gave a fist pump as I crossed the finish line!

The entire experience was one I will never forget. It will always be my first time, and now I have something to beat next year. Oh running....I love you again!

-K

But do you floss?

2007-10-19T13:51:00.000-07:00

Michigan State Police are trying to obtain leads on the perpetrators of a prank at Tawas Area High School. Someone stuck approximately 5,000 toothpicks into the football field. They had to move tonight's game to the opposing team's field while the groundskeepers use a roller to "mow" them down. Brava, pranksters...brava! And don't forget to floss!

-K

Do the Iranians love their children too?

2007-10-17T06:52:00.001-07:00

Mr. Gravity and I were watching the evening news this week when a story about Putin visiting the Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad came on. There was much speculation about WHY. Why Putin was shaking hands with the Iron-Fisted Iranian. And by doing so, causing such controversy with the Western world. As with all political situations, just look for the money...

1) Iran is an oil rich country. Russia, increasingly and slowly, is not. What oil reserves they do have are becoming virtually inaccessible and the reserves that remain untapped can be done so only at great expense. And since Russia is not a great innovator (i.e. researching oil alternatives), they need to align with a country that will pay them back for the support in a sticky political time. That is why they aren't best friends with China...both countries need the same things and can't get them from each other.

2) Start a new Cold War. The Cold War made Russia rich. The Cold War created Russian jobs. Since the Cold War has ended, the Russian economy is in the hands of the mafia (sorry, the oligarchy) and is in the shitter for 90% of the population. A war, especially a bloodless one, would make Putin popular among the people again. It would create jobs in defense, and give the Russian people a sense of pride they haven't felt since half of the world was afraid of them around 20 years ago.

3) Putin needs to become more popular in order to maintain the facade of a Russian Democracy. We saw his desperation for popularity when he did the beefcake photos on his "fishing trip" a month ago. (Trying to make a Russian woman swoon? Show your abs and thick shoulders and wear army green in the middle of a cold stream.) If his popularity goes (further) downward, he must resort to scare tactics or bullying (kicking the representatives out again; calling a new election before it's time) to keep his position of power. He has one advantage in this climate: the army won't storm the castle, remove him by force and ship him to Siberia to drink Wodka and play cards until the guard comes in to end his misery with a lone bullet to the back of the head.

But really, this works to our advantage. If Russia aligns with Iran, then we will know our enemy better. We know from past experience how the Russians work, how they negotiate. If that influence rubs off on Iran, then all the better. Our problems in the Middle East mainly stem from not knowing our enemy and what lengths they will go to in order to secure victory. We know what Russia will do in order to look good. We've been making each other look good for a very long time...

-K

Off the Fence

2007-10-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry to disappoint the one COG reader out there (thanks, Fun Guv!) but I'm falling off the fence into the "Not Running" side. I've put a lot of thought into it, and I want my first Half (or full) marathon to be done the right way. Training done properly; feel good about my effort; feel good about my results. If I attempt the 13.1 miles this Sunday, I won't do well. I certainly won't feel well. And I'll just feel discouraged from this running hobby of mine. I don't want to kill that passion, especially since right now the romance has cooled a bit and it is a chore for me to motivate. Fear not, faithful reader. I haven't given up. Running and I just don't play well together right now.

So the plan is to switch races to the wimpy little 5K and run it in a record time for me. I'm aiming for somewhere around 30 minutes. If I can't run the bigger race, I can at least do a personal best on the one I do run. Next year, I will run the Detroit Half-Marathon, and I will hopefully run it well. Anyone running Sunday...see you there!

-K

On the Fence (again)

2007-10-09T10:11:00.000-07:00

Ok. I'm still trying to decide if I'm going to run the Detroit Half-Marathon on October 21. My training has been spotty all of September, and I don't have the distance logged yet either. This past Saturday I was absolutely OFF the fence into the "No" side after a horrible 8 miler done in 1:45:23. But then I read the online news about the Chicago Fun Run and I don't feel like such a douche. So now, back on the fence.

Here are my internal arguements:

1) FOR: It is the 30th anniversary of the race; it would be cool to run over the Ambassador Bridge; my time is good enough that I won't be forced on to the Sag Wagon; I want to have my first medal; I would like to say I did it.

2) AGAINST: I haven't trained properly; my pace is slow as a turtle; I won't enjoy it physically; my overall time will suck; I WILL have to walk some of it.

My deciding factor will be Saturday's 10 miler. The weather is no excuse, it will be cool and sunny that day. I will have a good idea of how my performance will be, and how I will handle a long distance. If I don't have a good run, I'm going to participate in the 5K instead and save it for next year when I have time to train the right way. Truly, I'm not leaning one way or the other at this point. Making the decision even harder, I didn't have to pay the normal entrance fee b/c my company is a major sponser. So I'm not even out the $60 if I switch races. Please dump your opinion in the comments section...

-K

Hair Run

2007-10-03T05:56:00.000-07:00

I had the Hair Run again last night (see below for the definition of Hair Run). Because it is getting dark earlier now (damn Fall, damn You!), I'm leaving for my run as soon as I can get home from work. While Mr. Gravity cooks dinner, I'm running the neighborhood with my cherry-face and sweat glow.

Last night was a Super Hair Run. I'm running a little over 3 miles at a time during the week (two days a week), and saving the long run for the weekend. My 3 miles are run in the neighborhood, and my sub is a bunch of hills. In fact, the sub name has the word "Hill" in it. Truth in advertising, people. I'm hitting inclines of as much as 10% (in 2 spots). But, even so, my Hair Run was done in 34 minutes. I AM A GOLDEN GOD! (Bonus points for knowing what movie that comes from).

I felt GREAT, I felt STRONG. So I'm looking forward to trying 8 miles on Saturday morning, at least until I'm about halfway into the run. Wish me luck, dear reader...

And speaking of luck, Viel Gluck und Viel Spasse for those of you running Chicago this weekend! I'll be thinking of you!

-K

Runner's anxiety

2007-09-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

I'm beginning to think I've done a crazy thing. This statement is not a shock nor surprise for those that know me well, but bear with me here. I registered for the Free Press Half Marathon that is happening October 21.

Normally, that would be an ok thing. But I am woefully underprepared for the experience. WOEFULLY. As in, the farthest I've run is 5 miles. So while I've had a mix of excitement and anxiety, lately it's been mostly anxiety. Who do I think I am? Why do I want to get stranded halfway through the course and be burdened just to finish? Will I make it all the way? Am I crazy?

In a word, no. In doing a little online research today, I feel a little less nuts. The Marathon website gives advice to whether or not you should register as a runner or a walker, and I clearly fit into their definition of a runner even though I will be walking some of the race. I'm just debating the best strategy.

Should I do the run 5 minutes/walk 1 minute? Should I run the first 5 miles, take a long walk break, then run the rest? Could my legs do it? I'm conducting experiments every weekend until the race by bumping my miles up each weekend and trying different techniques. Anyone with some advice out there, feel free to chime in.

Don't get me wrong. I want to do it. I want to participate in this event, if only to give myself some incentive to keep going and improve my fitness. And I won't let certain thoughts ruin my confidence. I do belong there. I have a passion for running. I love that I'm attaining a level of fitness that a lot of people couldn't reach. That is the crux of what motivates me to keep going; to achieve a higher level; to push farther. I'm not the fastest runner out there, I'm not the youngest runner, but I AM A RUNNER. And I belong.

-K

Open Letters

2007-09-21T06:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Stayfree:

If you insist on using wings to keep you product in place, please make sure that the glue is not sticky enough to rip the hair off my upper inner thigh when it gets displaced from my drawers.

-(less) Hairy

Dear Vlasic:

I am now sporting the latest fashion in Band-aids after attempting to open a jar of your baby dills. The suction created by the lid was, I believe, strong enough to keep the space shuttle in orbit (screw gravity). I'm passing this information on to NASA in case you guys want to get together.

-Pickled

Dear NASA:

I've already let Vlasic know you'd be calling. Give them a ring and mention my name, maybe they'll give you a discount. At least on pickles.

-K

Reduce the Juice

2007-09-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

The challenge was thrown by Her Bad Mother (http://badladies.blogspot.com) as part of the BlogHer Act Canada initiative. BlogHer Canada has decided to back one cause per year; 2007 being the environment. As an informal FOCC (Friend of Cool Canadians), I felt the need to post on a subject close to my heart: reducing our dependency on packaging.

Ah, packaging. That excess stuff we come in contact with every day and don't really need. I will not post a Do As I Say, Not As I Do. Mr. Gravity and I already practice reducing our packaging on a daily basis by not purchasing bottled water. We save all of the plastic bottles we come in contact with: water bottles given to us at work; soda bottles; Vitamin Water bottles. I wash them out and we re-use them for water. We own a pitcher water filter, and I keep a pitcher of filtered water in the fridge. It is just a matter of refilling the pitcher when it gets low (not too much bickering on this at my house since it is only the two of us). It doesn't take much time, and it makes use of all the plastic bottles we receive on a weekly basis.

The same goes for juice boxes. Why by packets of individually wrapped juice boxes? You can buy a large jug of juice much cheaper and (see above) reuse the plastic bottles you have now. OR, if your little one is too wee to use a water bottle screw top, buy no-leak sippy cups that you can use over and over again.

The next thing I'm in search of? The perfect grocery bag. I'm currently on the hunt for a washable, reusable grocery bag so we don't have to bring them home in 15 bajillion plastic or paper bags every week. Seriously, my local grocery will use a ton more bags than needed every week I go. Guaranteed. I've asked them to pack more in each bag, and Mr. Gravity asks for paper (they still wrap the meat in a plastic bag and THEN pack it in the paper bag. Duh.). Major grocery chains are missing out on revenue. Don't credit people for bringing back bags for use. Just start charging 10 cents per bag to the customer and see how many people buy reusable bags! At least Costco reuses the packaging boxes their stock comes in in lieu of plastic or paper. The waste is enormous AND unnecessary.

And one last packaging pet peeve: CD packaging. I know, buying Cd's is going the way of the dinosaur with downloads. But in the transition interim, I can still buy whole Cd's cheaper at the store than downloading them online if I catch a sale. But why, oh why, is opening a CD more difficult than breaking in to Fort Knox? It is tough enough to gnaw my way through the shrink-wrapped exterior (cue nibble noises). Then you have to deal with the Sticky Strip on one end. I wish the Sticky Strip was the name of the dirty bar down the street, I really do. Unfortunately, it is just a damn sticky piece of (more) plastic that comes off in small slivers. Until you want to chuck the whole $9.99 in the garbage. Without hearing the CD. Ever. Just have one or the other, please. I understand they are theft deterrents. But mostly they are purchase deterrents.

I hope some of these suggestions have been useful, or at least have entertained you at your job between your personal phone calls and raiding the supply closet.

-K

Losing Inspiration

2007-09-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

What causes loss of inspiration, loss of creativity? When your passion for something shines a little less bright; when you can't seem to challenge yourself to find new ways to keep going.

I was talking with my dear friend J last night. He has continued to grow and learn in our shared passion, photography. I had gone through a period of time where photography was bordering on obsession. I kept a camera in my car for streches (just in case I passed a good photo op). I would get up at the crack of dawn to get the right light setup for a certain set of pix. I had even thought about opening a photo studio just to make money at something I loved to do.

And then it left. Just like that. I mean, I still take photos...just not with the regularity or enthusiasm that I used to have. I used to have excitement for the prospect of taking my camera on vacation or to a new place. Now, it's a bit of a chore. Was I happy with the quality of our last vacation pix? Kind of. I didn't walk away with the same quality or quantity that I usually do. And I don't feel that the pix were taken with the same eye I usually have.

J told me what he does for inspiration: He gives himself homework assignments. "Take a minimum of 50 photos of a 5 foot area of your backyard" or "Take photos only of the right side of the downtown street". I need to start doing this again. Finding time is the key. I think once summer is over, my weekends will be a bit more free to do these things. And also not drop my running habit, as that is what has been keeping my weight down and making it less of a problem for me.

Any suggestions, Peanut Gallery? Maybe I need to buy myself a new camera toy? What do you think of that, Mr. Gravity?

-K

Running is like your Hair

2007-08-31T06:41:00.000-07:00

I've decided that running is like your hair. Stick with me now....

Whenever I decide that I can't stand my hair anymore, I make an appointment for a hair cut. We're talking every 2 or 3 months here. And invariably, about a week before the appointment, my hair takes on the sheen and style of a super model. So much so that it makes me second guess the hair cut decision. My hair hasn't tricked me into rescheduling an appointment yet...but I'm sure it hasn't caught me in a weak PMS moment. Yet.

After my disappointing time in last week's Crim, I was feeling thoroughly frustrated with running. I had started a mental list of what new (or old) excercises I could start mixing with my running just to get my enthusiasm back. And then there was yesterday.

The weather was perfect, about 68 - 70F around 7pm last night. I took off for a short 2.5 mile run, and I flew! Ran like hell, didn't want to stop, and even ran up Hell Hill to my driveway! So, I'm back in love again. And it felt GGGGGOOOOOOODDDDDDDDD....

-K

Crim there, done that

2007-08-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

My good friend T and I ran our first Crim this past Saturday. For those of you not from MI, the Crim is a REALLY big running race in Flint. They have a 10 mile race; a 10K run; 10K walk; 8K run; 8K walk; 5K run; 5K walk; 1 mile run/walk and the Teddy Bear Trot. T and I thought about doing the Teddy Bear Trot, but we forgot our bears at home. Next year, I'm Killing those pre-school snots!

My final time was S-L-O-W. Finished in 40:02, my average mile was 12:58. Here are my list of excuses for this one:

1) 75%+ humidity
2) Aunt Flow
3) Rain in the last 1/2 of my race
4) Haven't trained regularly in a couple of weeks
5) I suck ass at going faster

My time makes me ask myself: Why do I race? This pace is truly a jogger's pace. Why do I bother signing up for these? I think I do this not for the pace or what place I come in. I do it to stay motivated; to stay the course on my running. If I have nothing to "train for"then I'm afraid I will give up. I've already made a concious decision to mix up my workout options for the winter time b/c the Dreadmill will kill my enthusiasm quick if I can't run outside. So I'll try another race in October for sure, and maybe squeeze one last race in before the end of the year. Gotta keep my head up, and keep focused on what is important: keeping up my exercise and working on my overall fitness.

Some observations of my first real "runner's race":

1) I wanted to give the hard core male runners a sandwich. They looked like they could use one or fifty;
2) The hard core female runners look like men;
3) The sweat was a-flyin' due to the humidity;
4) It's hard to drink from a paper cup while you're running;
5) I spit like a mean goose in the last half of the run (good thing I'm looking out for passers on my spit side);
6) Running with a friend makes the time fly by a LOT faster than being by yourself.

I'll keep plugging along at running, even though there will be no medals on my shelf any time soon. My rewards are in my personal progress...I am my own measuring stick.

-K

The people you meet

2007-08-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

I was really excited to meet my new blog friends over the weekend. Mr. Gravity and I went to Mike's 10th annual 30th birthday party on Saturday (somehow that makes him 39 and not 40, but I'm not arguing with his math 'cause he's my elder).

It is always nice to meet someone face to face that you've been blogging with here and there. Yes, Animal and Great Lakes Running Gal, I mean you(s). The experience was one that, even though I don't know shit about this person, I felt like we were old friends. It probably helps that Mike and I clicked in that way, and that we all have similiar experiences with college and the like (as scary and wrong as that may be). Mr. G and I had much fun, and we stayed WAY longer than we thought we would (since we knew only the host and hostess before we got there).

Many Labatts and some late night munchie pizza later, we felt like we'd been with these people before (in a good way). Thanks all for the evening...I'm glad we made new friends. I realize that Mr. Gravity's Swedish Chef performance sealed the deal on our future friendship. You all should feel privileged, as he busts that one out very rarely...blog on, bloggers!

-K

Ch-ch-changes

2007-08-15T10:42:00.001-07:00

Here it is, the official third day at my new office. It's funny how we are creatures of habit; how change really unsettles us. I don't think I had trepidation about change prior to my starting, but now that I'm here I constantly remind myself to give it time; to relax and not worry about things running smoothly right away.

It's been 10 years since I've been the new kid, and it feels strange. Like I'm running on a gravel road. I'm trying to watch the road ahead for rocks and ruts, but trying to remember to keep my head up so I can breathe easier. I know that I will learn this stretch of road over time. I will come to welcome certain bumps; certain ruts. I will automatically leap over the rocks that I know are there and have tripped me up before. So I let myself envision how I will feel in 6 weeks; then in 6 months; then in 6 years. And I relax and start to have fun....

-K

Two More Days of Freedom

2007-08-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

I've had, blessedly, this past few days off before I start my new job. It has been interesting to have my days unstructured and Mr. Gravity isn't here either (the poor slob has to slog to work this week as I roll over in bed).

So what does one do with unexpected time off? Errands, lots and lots of errands. And dealing with the afternoon slow drivers. And getting my watch repaired. And grocery shopping next to the mom that appears to be buying 3 children, because they are all stacked inside the cart. Where is the bar code on that? And how do I avoid that aisle? I'm SURE they aren't low fat.

Along with looking forward to a new professional start, I've also confirmed that I've lost 25 pounds since the end of January. I had a doctor's appointment today, so I was weighed out of obligation. I haven't weighed myself since March and have been avoiding doing so (don't want to get numbers obsessed, Mike P). But I am very happy with where my weight loss is at right now. I have confirmation that the hard work of running 3-4 times per week and (mostly) sticking to my diet really works. I'm not sure what weight I want to hit, so I'm planning on concentrating on my fitness schedule and not eating a lot of crap. Wherever that takes me, I'll go there.

Mr. Gravity and I had a quick trip to Nova Scotia over the weekend to visit some very dear friends. The area is BEAUTIFUL, I highly recommend visiting and it would probably be even more beautiful in late September. Of course, it helps to have good company, of which we had in abundance. It was great to visit old friends, make new ones (M & J have a 6 month old boy) and be there for milestones (C's first taste of food that wasn't milk). Thanks for the hospitality guys!

That's all for now, I'll update about the new job soon...

-K

Logbay on the Objay

2007-07-29T13:20:00.001-07:00

Keeping in mind there is precendent out there on blogging about one's job, I'll keep it vague and brief:

I've found a new job.

I'm leaving my old one.

The End

Sorry to spare the gory details...but that about wraps it up!

-K

Every little thing he does is magic

2007-07-18T05:40:00.043-07:00

Stewart. Copeland. Is. A. God.

I'm still in the afterglow this morning from my drum bliss at the Police concert last night. Fuck those critics who bashed their show saying it "strayed too far" from the original songs. Apparently none of those weenies were old enough to see them the first time around, or bothered to listen to their live CD to know THAT IS HOW THEY PLAY LIVE.

I about peed my drawers on "Wrapped around your finger" and "Every little thing she does is magic". The musicianship was amazing. I've determined that Stewart is a jazz drummer performing with a rock band. His ability to juggle mulitple rythmes at once just kills me. I swear at one point every limb he had was going to a different cadence! Plus, he had a killer setup with a standard kit in the front and a second riser in the back with more goodies to play with. Unbelievable. Mr. Gravity noted that Copeland played with (what looked like) golf gloves on both hands. Hee.

I can't give Copeland all of the credit, because Andy Summers brought it as well. He was dead on with his guitar solos. He isn't as animated as the rest of the group, but then again he never was. During one of the solos, I thought about Mike trying to imitate THAT on Guitar Hero! HA!

They definetely play larger than 2 guitars and a kit. The compensation for not having a keyboard or a second lead guitar was just great (and I'm sure a lot of work). Not a disappointment, that's for sure! I didn't appreciate the nuances of this band the first time around, but I do now. Guys, I'll never take you for granted again.

I'm exhausted this morning, but not from the concert (we made it home by 11pm). Mr. Gravity had to scare a racoon off the roof around 4am this morning by throwing rocks and shining the flashlight at it. I woke up thinking we had an alien invasion outside with the banging and the light show. After about 20 stubborn minutes, the bugger went away. At least Mr. G didn't need to turn the hose on 'em. Plus, I'm not sure if our water pressure would've hit the peak of our roof (yes, he was parked at the peak). Needless to say, sleep wasn't really premium after that...oh well, that's what the weekend is for!

later!

A running thing...

2007-07-17T08:01:00.001-07:00

Ok, I had to post about my latest running achievement (this is NOT a running blog). I did 4 miles on Saturday, no stopping, no breaks. All in about 45-50 minutes. And it felt GOOD.

On a different note, the Police concert is tonight. I'm going to drummer heaven for a few hours, hope I come back a different person!

-K

Running Update

2007-07-10T13:31:00.007-07:00

I am NOT turning this into a running blog...I am NOT turning this into a running blog...

Fell a bit short of my 4 miles Saturday, but made progress nonetheless. Went the first 2.5 miles w/o a break (Mike P knows this is big for me) and my total distance was 3.4 miles. Aunt Flow brought me down, I'm sure the females out there know what I mean. So overall, I was very happy with the day.

Missed the run yesterday, so I'm hitting 3 miles tomorrow and another 3.5 - 4 on Saturday. My 8K training dictates only 2 tomorrow and 3 on Saturday, but I'm bumping that shit up so that 5 miles is reachable by the end of August. I'm trying to convince a friend to run the 8K with me so I have a buddy, we'll see how good my powers of persuasion are.

That's all today...I'm out!

-K

Karma Run

2007-07-05T09:21:00.022-07:00

Well, it has finally happened. After 4 months of slow progress, bumping up my distances, picking up my pace. I finally had my Karma Run.

I call it that because it was the most perfect run I've ever had. I ran only 2.5 miles yesterday morning, but I did it non-stop and felt great when I was done.

The weather yesterday was overcast, humid and a little chilly (about 67 F). I took off from my driveway and headed around the corner to tackle the First Big Hill on my local route. No big sweat, I tackled it easily enough just remembering to keep my stride short but my pace constant. I rounded out of the sub and down the main street to the point I normally poop out at. I felt good, so I didn't need to take a break just yet so I kept on trucking.

Got to about the 1.4 mile mark and tackled the Second Big Hill on the route. Again, just paced myself and did the baby stride thing to the top. And again, still feeling GREAT! No need to stop, no need to rest so I kept on...

Got to the last .3 mile at the end of my street. If I wanted to run this last little bit, I was going to have to tackle the Mother of All Hills; Mt. Rush-hill; Hill-zilla - my street. This grade is, at my best guess, about a 10 - 13% grade. I was still feeling GREAT, so I said fuck it why not? I set off again with the baby steps and the pace steady. About half way up my thighs were starting to burn, but not a challenge to my lungs.

Once I made it up to the top, I had my Rocky moment! Ran up my driveway and found Mr. Gravity in the garage and told him the blow by blow. He was excited, but of course can't be as excited as I was. I think I'm really starting to love this new hobby. 4 miles on Saturday on Paint Creek is the next target...wish me luck!

-K

The Mommy Effect

2007-07-03T12:46:00.027-07:00

I know, I know...that is the absolute last heading you all expect to see on my blog. Especially since Mr. Gravity and I are non-breeders.

But watching some TV last night got me thinking (imagine that, TV as thought-provoking). Lately, I've become more aware of commercials. Namely, the type of commercials they show depends on the kind of program you are watching. Makes sense in most cases: medicine commercials during the national evening news ('cause the evening news is for old people); ring tone commercials during Pimp My Ride; Lowe's commercials during any show on HGTV.

Last night, we were watching the Travel Channel at the 8pm hour. Good show called No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain. I like the show b/c it holds nothing sacred and calls out pretentious bullshit with the best of them (Go Tony!). But the commercials were bugging me, you see. Most of them were the type of commercial I will call Mommy Guilt.

Every other spot was for disenfectant, diapers, baby snack food, etc...and every one of those ad spots made it seem like if you weren't using their product, you were going to hell for being a Bad Mother. Like God forbid your kid gets a cut on his hand and it gets an infection! You should have a gallon of Neosporine in the house, and if you don't you're a Bad Mother! Or God forbid your toddler licks the side of the garbage can (oh no, they NEVER do that!) and you don't have Clorox all over it...you're a Bad Mother!

These ads were making ME feel guilty and I don't even have kids (except for the 43 year old one). No wonder women in our society are made to feel not good enough. You don't clean well enough; you don't take care of your kids good enough; you aren't thin enough; and you have a wrinkle on your forehead so you're a loser!

To me, this whole thing is a new twist on repressing women. I mean, anyone knows if you want to take down a group you pick the weakest link. And when I say weak, I mean the most guilt-ridden. I would think being a mom makes you question yourself daily. You have ads bombarding you, you have the busy body bitch next store comparing her kids to yours, and you have your own moms nagging you about what is best. So The Man goes after the weakest link in the female food chain: the Guilt Ridden Mom.

Sorry, but that shit won't be bought here. And I hope that women are smart enough to know that our expectations are set WAY too high. So I say let that kid eat dirt! So what if their hair is messed up? So what if their clothes don't match? Let kids be kids and LET MOMS BE MOMS.

Go in peace and amen.

-K

Bored, bored, bored

2007-06-28T10:36:00.004-07:00

Is there nothing worse than sitting in a Human Tupperware (office building) looking out the window at a sunny warm day? And knowing you are stuck there for 4 more hours? Someone is metaphorically putting bamboo under my fingernails this afternoon. I just want to go outside and play! Maybe come down with the Friday Flu? I'm feeling sick already...

-K

Costa Rica pix

2007-06-22T07:42:00.035-07:00

I've finally been able to post some pix from my Costa Rican vacation...since I have broke ass dial up at home, it was necessary to copy them to disk and bring 'em to work. The above file is of the bay we stayed on.

Here is a picture of the Roaming Pack of Cows enjoying a little beach time:

And, for Animal, a picture of the most ugly flower in the rain forest:

Arenal Volcano blowing off some steam:

And the Howler Monkey losing his shit at the truck driver:

Catalina Island:

And the Costa Rican Crabman:

Enjoy the tourist stuff...I'll try to post the "pro" pix sometime soon!

-K

First Race Cherry is Popped! News at 11....

2007-06-18T10:16:00.018-07:00

Or now. News now!

My first race was both exhilerating and disappointing, and both in a good way! The Race for the Cure is definately one that focuses on the bigger "Walker" group, so I did feel a bit like an after-thought in the race lineup. I think the construction on Woodward probably contributed to that, as the guys were laying rebar down about 20 feet from where I was streching out. Also, the running group was so big that it took a good 6 minutes after the "start" for me to cross the start line (and dodge the confused walkers that had stumbled in to the running corral).

But, on to the positive. Once I got on my way, it was relatively easy to keep my pace. I only had to shout "On the right!" one time at a gal that had stopped running and was doing the Wandering Walker thing. I did have to take a walk break about 1.6 miles into it, mostly b/c I'm sure my pace was a bit faster than usual due to the excitement of it all.

I do know one thing...running that last mile and crossing the finish line was fantastic! My legs felt like I had just started the race as there were more people cheering us on in that last mile. And, since my family and coworkers were still busy walking the route, I had no one to greet at the end. So I grabbed my cell from my water pack and called Mr. Gravity to tell him I had finished! Thank you, best friend/husband, for supporting my quest to get in shape and do this race. You truly inspire me to keep going!

So...any ideas for another race in August? No, Mike...no CRIM!

-K

A New First

2007-06-14T06:32:00.016-07:00

Didn't think an old dog could learn new tricks? I'm living proof that is wrong. I am, at the ripe old age of 36, running my first 5K this Saturday. I've always had a love/hate relationship with excercise in general and a struggle with my weight all my life, but I think I've found my calling. This has been a challenge for me, and I've been working at it since about mid-February.

I think I caught the running bug when I ran my first mile on my 36th birthday this past February 24. I know, some of you out there can run (many) circles around me. But this mile was a great achievement for me! It was some mental barrier that was set in my mind, and I broke it on a day that usually signifies slowing down. Love it!

Well, now that mile really isn't a big deal for me anymore. I'm not intimidated by running 3 miles, even. So I'm truly geeked out and excited for Saturday's race. For those of you not familiar with Race for the Cure, it is a wonderful place to start if you want to get active in the fight against breast cancer.

I've been participating in Race for the Cure for the past 13 years and have watched it grow from 1,500 participants to the 40,000+ that it is today. It is a day of fun and of tears, hope and sadness. To see whole families walking with "In Memory of my Wife" or "In Memory of my Mom" on their signs makes you want to weep (I'm getting choked up just typing it). On the other hand, to see hundreds of pink caps designating the survivors of this disease and the thousands of signs that say "In Celebration of my..." is a great thing, too. I walk in celebration of my sister, who has survived her bout of breast cancer at the age of 32. Yes, even you young women out there need to check your boobies regularly!

So this weekend will be a great way to kick off a long (I hope) love of running and being in shape. I want to thank Mike P for getting me started and motivating me to continue to improve. 10K in August, anyone?

-K

Hot Damn!

2007-06-08T06:23:00.007-07:00

Well, I promised a story about the howler monkeys losing their shit over the truck parked at the side of the road in Playa de Potrero, but I've gotta comment first on two things I read this morning:

1) Grey's Anatomy does not renew Isaiah Washington's contract for next season - Holy Shit! You mean the PC Police actually work for more than one or two groups now? They actually stick up for gays as well? I thought I'd never see the day. Figured that gays would stay second class citizens along with most Asian people for the rest of my existence. I think the situation really need'nt be looked at as a "gay issue". It boils down to having a disruptive employee in the work environment. I would assume if I would call my coworker a derogatory slur and started a fist fight with another, I would be fired. Probably a lot quicker than he was. I would think working on that set between the time of the incident and now had to have been a difficult place to work and be creative, that's for sure. Good for you, powers that be on Grays!

2) Paris Hilton will be put back in jail - this is the one I really like. Because she is white, rich and young means she only has to spend 3 of her 23 day sentence in jail?!? Like hell! And apparently the LA district attorney agrees with me, b/c he is hauling her ass back to court today by her hair extensions and trying his damndest to put that shit back behind bars. The sheriff's office claims it was due to a "medical emergency", but the smutty word in cyberspace is she had a raging herpes outbreak brought on by stress and needed medical attention. Send that dirty poon to the medical ward, damn it! I hope they make an example of her for other celeb-u-tards out there that think they can drive drunk, crash their cars, drive the wrong way down the freeway and drink underage and there are no penalties; no consequences for this. HAHAHAHAHAHA!

Ok, got that out. Back to the regular blogging soon...Happy Friday!

-K

Costa Rica, Part 2

2007-05-23T07:06:00.001-07:00

As promised: Arenal, howling monkeys and The General!

We took a day trip to see Costa Rica's Arenal volcano. There are several volcanos in CR, but this is one of the only active ones they have. It was a long drive there (about 3.5 hours), but along the way we stopped at an animal rescue reserve. Nice facilities, and it was nice to see a place that would care for injured animals. We ran into the tourist group from HELL there, however. A bunch of 50-something chickens from Des Moines (or something like that) dressed in capri pants and visor hats talking at the top of their lungs, scaring the shit out of every animal in there. At one point, my flash accidently went off on my camera and one of the chickens yells at the top of her lungs "No Flash! No Flash!". I just continued my quiet conversation with Mr. COG and ignored her. This prompts the chicken to say (again, very LOUDLY) "Does she speak English?". Not in a way that was rude (other than it was LOUD) but I successfully stumped her as to whether I was from an English speaking country. Good. That way my continuing to ignore her wasn't a problem, and it wasn't necessary for me to give her the What For in front of God and everyone.

After this somewhat pleasant stop, we made our way up the mountain. And up, and up, and up. About halfway there, we stopped for a nice lunch at a roadside restaurant at Lake Arenal. The lake is partly man made, and the area is rural and charming.

Finally, we reached the top. Of course, this being a rain forest, it was raining. Fortunately, my $3.99 plastic poncho came in handy at this moment. Except hiking in a plastic poncho is a lot like hiking with a giant Ziplock on. VERY hot and sticky, especially hiking up a gazillion steps in high altitude (I don't do altitude well). But the huffing and puffing were worth it, because at the top of the trail was an amazing view of the volcano. The top was visible (I'm told this isn't always the case) and while we were there, it rumbled and smoke poofed (technical vulcan term) out the top. Very cool!

Once we finished our hike, we went to a hot springs spa. They had about 8 or so pools of varying temperatures to lounge around in. Temps ranged from 86F to 116F. I opted out of the 116F pool because I like my own meat to stay rare, thank you. I particularly liked the pool that you could belly up to the bar and have an Imperial. We also ate a wonderful buffet dinner here.

After dinner (and the sun had set), we took a ride to the side of the volcano that was erupting. We were able to see the lava rolling down the mountain on the SE side. What a great sight! I've never seen lava in person and even though it was far away, it was still a sight to see! Once we had our fill of checking out the lava, we started to head back home. The drive took about 3 hours back, and thanks to our tour guide Johann for barreling down that mountain as fast as he could to get us home. I know his driving caused concern for some in our group, but I know he's driven that road more than a million times so I think we were in good hands.

The next morning, after my shower, I was looking out our patio door at something in the trees. At first I thought it was a howler monkey due to the size, almost 2 meters long. It moved positions and I got a better look. Instead of a monkey, it was an iguana! The biggest iguana I'd ever seen! With a giant spiney mohawk down it's back! Holy Crap! Since we had several other small iguanas in the area, I decided to nickname him The General. I'm sure he is the Iguana King of Potrero!

Well, the story of the howler monkeys will have to fall to part 3...I'm out!

-K

Costa Rica, Part I

2007-05-18T12:39:00.026-07:00

Well, our trip was relaxing and wonderful to say the least. I'll give you a highlight recap:

Our flight to Costa Rica left Detroit at 6:30 in the AM. As in the sweaty, stinky ass crack of dawn Eastern Standard Time. We decided to save a couple of hours and sleep at the nearby HoJo's. They also offer a long term parking deal, which was attractive when you're gone 2 weeks.

Staying (or God forbid, living) near an airport is a noisy experience. In the five minutes it took for Mr. Gravity to check in, I counted 3 planes zooming overhead. This didn't cause me a moments pause, because I sleep under any circumstances. Bouncy bus? Check. Hot, crowded airplane ride? Check. Car alarm? Check. Nudists playing the bongos? Got that one, too. Mr. Gravity, however, isn't so lucky. Unless there is perfect silence, he is AWAKE. So, I got plenty of rest, while my husband counted the ceiling tiles 'til about midnight until the 4:45am wake-up call.

Once we were on the plane, all was good. We got into Atlanta on time, and boarded the plane to Liberia. Our fellow inmates included a group of thirty-something men and women in the midst of arrested development. The guys sat together apart from their womenfolk and proceeded to drink most of the way down. The ladies just clucked like chickens until the landing. Thankfully, we drove off in the opposite direction when we got our cab.

The hotel was located on the beach in a nice calm bay. Weather was hot, but breezy, so it definately was an improvement over the cold weather of the Midwest. We got in around 2pm, so we grabbed a bite and a beer and relaxed for the afternoon.

We went to bed kinda early to sleep off some jet lag. One problem, though. A critter decided to occupy the wall space in our bathroom and proceeded to have a dance party in there for the first 20 minutes. Of course, Mr. Gravity wasn't having any of that, so he went to the desk and had our room switched. So, after a few minutes of repacking and re-clothing we were in a more quiet room.

The next 5 days we were vegetables baking in the sun and swimming in a salt bath. Ahhh...I actually stopped chewing my nails after the second day!

Next post: Arenal Volcano, howling monkeys and The General

-K

Tag, I'm it...the ABC's of me

2007-05-16T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hi all! Back from beautiful, sunny Costa Rica (why do I sound like a game show host?)! I'll blog some details about the trip later this week, along with some photos. In the meantime, I've been tagged by Mike P to give out the ABC's of me...feel free to giggle along...

A - Available or Single - I've been madly in love with my husband, even before he was a possibility to be my husband. Been married for almost 3 years now...

B - Best Friend - I'm extremely lucky to have a few people I can call best friend. My husband, my sister, and my friend Barb. All of them are unconditionally supportive and loving, and I cherish them all. Yes, I realize how lucky I am to have even one friend, let alone three.

C - Cake or Pie - Cake. I love a good carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. My fantasy is to eat a whole carrot cake in one sitting, but I've yet to let my guilty Catholic conscience allow it to happen.

D - Drink of Choice - I'll have to go with Warsteiner as well. For the uninitiated, Warsteiner is a German ale. Nice color, great taste. Much better than the piss we call beer in America.

E - Essential items - Gotta have my Ipod now that I have one. If I was lost on a deserted island, I'd want this and a Sony Reader jammed with books.

F - Favorite Color - Red

G - Gummi Bears or Worms - Surprisingly enough, I'm not a gummi snob. It doesn't have to be bears. In fact, my favorite Gummi item are Gummi frogs from Haribo. You can't get them in the US, so I buy a bunch when we go to Deustchland for Christmas. They are lime flavored green Gummi on top and a soft marshmallow-y substance on the bottom. YUM!

H - Hometown - Sterling Heights. Home to subdivisions and strip malls. No good character there, believe me.

I - Indulgence - My geek/nerd side, and my time I spend running. I love to watch all the documentaries and dorky stuff on the Science and Discovery channels, and I always enjoy a good sci-fi movie or tv show.

J - January or February - I'll take February for my birthday and Valentines' Day. January just has the post-holiday let down.

K - Kids - None unless we get the Second Coming.

L - Life is incomplete without - artistic expression. Whether it is taking photos, embroidery, or appreciating other works of art...couldn't make it without that. Have to be creating something...

M - Marriage Date - October 3, 2004

N - Number of siblings - 4. I have two sisters and one brother, all older. I was an "oops" baby 8 years after my parents thought they were done.

O - Oranges or Apples - Oranges. Fresh oranges remind me of going to visit my aunt in Florida when I was a kid.

P - Phobias/Fear - I have an extreme fear of death. Can't dwell on it too long or it can bring me to tears. Check out a website about Indigo Children, pretty sure I fall into this category. I also have a touch of the agoraphobia, but I think it's really that I can't stand people for an extended period of time. When it's time to go, it's time to go...

Q - Favorite Quote - "Hello. My name is Diego Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die."

R - Reasons to smile - The end of the work day; seeing my husband when I get home; watching my nieces and nephews goof around.

S - Season - I'm partial to Fall (both the season and that I'm not really coordinated)

T - Tag three - my three are tagged already! Not fair!

U - Unknown fact about me - I sing. Really, I can sing.

V - Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animals - Sorry, but I need a big juicy hamburger at that time of the month. Iron!

W - Worst Habits - I bite my nails

X - Xrays or Ultrasounds - I like a nice, lubed up ultrasound any day...

Y - Your favorite foods - Pizza! Beer! Mexican!

Z - Zodiac - I'm a fish, baby...just trying to keep swimming upstream...

Ok, time to wake up now...show's over!

-K

Vacation Brain

2007-04-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

So, as I sit chained to my desk, working yet another day of unpaid overtime...I dream of my vacation. In just 2 days. To Costa Rica. And I won't be back for two weeks. Suckers.

I hope to take lots and lots of great pix, hopefully have wonderful light and subject matters. I'll try to remember the fellow bloggers out there while I'm sipping a drink at the swim-up bar in the pool...see 'ya, bitches!

-Kim

Age does not equal smarts

2007-04-26T06:44:00.000-07:00

Intellectually, I should know that running on pavement is harder on my legs than running on a nice cushy treadmill.

Intellectually, I should know that running with a pulled left hamstring is not a great idea.

In reality, I didn't think of either one. My adventure started last Saturday. It was a beautiful warm sunny day here in Michigan, so I did a little clean-up gardening. I woke up Sunday with a sore left hamstring, but thought nothing of it since I usually get one from gardening every year.

It was another nice warm sunny day on Sunday, so I went for a run. The run went pretty well. I wasn't used to the warm temp, but otherwise not bad. The leg loosened up after the first 1/2 mile or so, and I was in good shape.

Monday, I wanted to try running in the great outdoors again. I took the same route, and it was also warm that day. The ham was still a bit sore, but the run went okay. Running outside was tough on my inner thigh muscle (whatever you call that), but overall a decent experience.

Then we come to Tuesday. At this point, I'm becoming obsessed with the outside run. I want to go farther, faster. I'm calculating my workout week, and I want to squeeze in another run since I won't be able to do it the next day (which would mean two days off). The temp had dropped to a little below 60F, so it was cooler than it had been. My ham is still sore, but I'm thinking "Why not? I made it fine on Sunday and Monday. What's one more day?" Did I mention that I haven't been doing pavement running since I started? So, I take off on my new 2.2 mile route. It's going ok, not too hot, but geez my left leg just can't seem to get a good stride. I'm running short on that side, and I feel like an old guy shuffling along. I make it a bit over 1 mile at this point, so I decide to take my walk break and give it a rest. After about 3 minutes, I decide to gear up for the rest of the way home. I start off and ohh! My side-thigh muscle thingie hurts like crazy! And ohh! My left groin muscles starts to hurt too! My stride in my left leg is getting smaller and smaller as the ham starts to tighten up even more. At this point, I'm still .7 miles from home and I realize. I have to do the Runner's Walk of Shame to get back to the house. If I keep running like this, I'm going to end up like Quasimodo on a bad day. And did I mention the back of my knee is killing me at this point, too? And that the last 2/10 of a mile is a 10% or so grade up my street?

When finally limped in the front door, I realize my husband has been checking out said limp since I hit our driveway. I got the Dad treatment, fo' sure. "I told you not to kill yourself" (can't collect on the insurance if I do, huh?) "Did you take your cell phone with you? No? What if you fall dead on the street?" (Then I'm dead) "Oh, sweetie" (Oh sweetie).

I promptly hit the garden tub upstairs and soaked that sucker for an hour in scalding water. It did help, and by today (2 days later) I'm good as new. My husband won't be home after work tonight, so maybe I can sneak out again...hmmmm....

-Kim

Going Green - Part II

2007-04-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

In looking around a bit, I stumbled on a couple more suggestions for going green that I hadn't realized before. I figured I'd put them out there, maybe you'll have an "aha" moment as well...

1) Don't leave appliances (like monitors, CPUs, etc) running in sleep mode. Well, no shit. The article I read suggests to not only plug these into a power strip (which I do), but to turn THE POWER STRIP off when not using these items. Seems the power strip left turned on all day drains energy that adds up after a while...It seems obvious, but I never really thought about it.

2) The other suggestion was a bit cheesy, but some of you out there might use it. Take your empty Starbucks cup (or other paper-like coffee container) and use it to start plant seeds or herb seeds. The coffee remnants don't harm the seeds (a little acidity sometimes helps) and you don't have to waste the coffee cup.

3) The last one is for all you breeders out there. Use the old cereal boxes as magazine or paper storage racks. Cut the box on an angle so the top and part of one side are cut off (looks like a quadrangle). You can use those odd bits of wrapping paper to cover the Lucky Charms leprechaun if you want...unless your reading is magically delicious.

That's all for today, folks! Hug a tree!

-K

Going Green

2007-04-18T06:35:00.000-07:00

Be still my beating heart...is America finally ready to take saving the environment seriously? Are we ready to recycle? Cut our reliance on oil? Cut emissions? The glut of advertising and media coverage on the subject is building, and I only hope this time we take it seriously.

This whole topic isn't new; global warming is not a man-made concept (just a man-made problem). We are strip mining the planet for our daily needs, and it must stop soon. The average household leaves an environmental footprint the size of King Kong, and it really doesn't take a whole lot of effort to make it smaller (like Mighty Joe Young size).

Try recycling. This takes almost zero effort. Instead of chucking the endless catalogues, newspapers and flyers you receive every week - bundle them up. Use an old milk crate to gather the glass, and another one for the cardboard and paper. Once every couple of weeks, trek down to the recycle center and drop them off. Or, better yet, pay a little extra for the trash company to pick it up for you. We pretty much have one bag of trash per week and the rest goes in the bin.

Change your light bulbs to the energy efficient kind. They last longer, and they'll cut your electric bill. They are more expensive, but you spend less in the long run. If you don't want to fork out the expense to do them all at once, just replace them with the good guys when they pop on you.

Run your AC less. We live in Michigan, for cripe's sake, not Brazil. It doesn't get THAT hot. Play more outside in the evening if it's warm in the house. I think we run the AC about a total of 12 days from June to September, and that was on days the high temp hit over 95 F.

Use the rubber mulch in your flower beds. It is made of recycled tires. It doesn't blow away as much as the wood pulp stuff, and it doesn't fade for years. It is soft, so you can use it under your child's play set too.

If everyone gives a little effort, it can go a long way. Christ, I don't know why I even care since we're not breeders...

-K

Hey now...

2007-04-12T13:26:00.000-07:00

Trying to get fancy and high tech here, adding a photo to the blog. This one is from a vacation in the Bahamas. I figured I would post it for all you folks out there still stuck in the late winter like I am...

I'll try to post a different photo every week, just to show off the hobby...

later!

-K

Can I get an Amen?

2007-04-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

How many people out there are in the same spot as me? Here I am, 36 years old. I've worked at the same company for almost 10 years (9.5 years, if you want to be technical). I fell into my line of work out of job desperation after college (my degree is in a totally different field). And, for the past 2 years, I HATE IT. I hate almost everything about it. I get the Sunday Night Stomache ache; I shudder when my work phone rings; I hit Monster.com every other day.

So, what to do? Go back to school? Work part-time in a better profession until I can get a full time job? The economy here in Michigan is so far in the shitter you couldn't reach it with a snake. Looking for another job is a daunting task, fo' sure. School is an option, but one I don't look forward to. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for more education and I was a pretty decent student. I just have zero good study habits and, if it don't come easy, I abandon it like a hot potato.

My passion is photography. There's nothing better than going out early in the morning, just me and my camera, and discovering wonderful things. My dream is to be able to make a living off of my photos, but for now I settle on making it my hobby (and that's fine for me). I've dipped my toe in the professional waters. I've taken a small business class and I've interned with a photo portrait studio in town. I'd just rather do the art and leave the business to someone else... :)

I suppose I'm hitting my mid-life crisis a bit early. I've dyed my hair red, taken up running, and have vowed to start doing more of the things I want to do. Lord help my husband...

-K

A new mile-stone

2007-04-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, the hyphen was added on purpose, Mr. English Major. On Saturday I ran my all time high of 2 miles on the Dread! I was sweating like a pig, but boy did it feel good.

I had a doctor's pre-appointment for a physical last week. Now, at my current height (5 ft 6in and change) and weight (188 lbs) I was informed that I am currently in the "obese" category. Initially, this was really depressing to me. But now, I look at it as a motivator for my running.

After I had completed my 2 miles, I told my husband about it, following up with "How's that for obese?". I think I'm saying this word aloud so that I own it and that it doesn't have the power to depress me. It now is just motivating. I'm running a 5K in June...how's that for obese? I run or walk on the treadmill about 12 miles per week...how's that for obese? I don't eat junk food or drink soda pop (haven't in years)...how's that for obese?

I could go on and on...and I do, in my head. I think this label is going to be great to keep me moving; keep me running on a regular schedule. Now when I loose my motivation, I'll just remember that I want to show people wrong! That I'm not lazy; that I'm not going to stop! Yeah for me!

-Kim

What else to do on a day like today

2007-04-06T11:32:00.000-07:00

Really, my postings are becoming more and more schizophrenic. Last month, I thought my true calling was music posts. Then my music inspiration went into the shitter...can't tell you why, it just did!

The weather here has turned cold AGAIN, very disappointing. But the cold temparture hasn't stopped the spread of a very insipid bug in my office. And this carrier spreads this bug to most people he comes in contact with...I'm talking Running Fever!

And no, this isn't just a fever that lasts a long time. I've caught the running bug from my coworker Mike P. His enthusiasm for the sport has given me the inspiration to try it myself. I'm running my first 5K in June, and I can't wait. I'm pretty much ready for it now, but with a couple of weeks off for vacation I'll be just about on course training-wise.

The majority of my training has been on the Dread Mill in our basement. That doesn't bug me so much, except on those run that I need to concentrate to pull the last few yards out. Then the basement walls do nothing to inspire me to go forward. At least if I'm running in my neighborhood, I can push myself by mailboxes. You know, I pep talk to myself that I can make it to the black mailbox; and when I get within 10 yards of that I push to the green one. It really does work. No mailboxes in the basement.

And I've also learned that my subdivision isn't named "Hi Hill" for nothing. I never used to wonder why I didn't see many runners in our area. Probably b/c no matter which route you take, you are facing a pretty intimidating slope fo' sure. But that just helps me prep better for a flat trail like Paint Creek in the spring. I can't wait to hit that trail. I just found a park-n-run area not too far from the house to hook onto the trail, so it won't be long now! :)

Well, that updates you for now. In the world of childless-ness, the ancidotal stories are few and far between...Happy Spring!

-K

Music Musings

2007-03-13T05:39:00.000-07:00

I think I've finally discovered a true purpose for this blog! (Finally, you say). I'm changing the topic to music. All music, please post your opinion on the topics I pick. And please make music suggestions to check out.

My first topic is a new (for the US) singer/songwriter out of Scotland, Paolo Nutini. I've heard about 5 tracks from his new album "These Streets". Not bad for a first U.S. effort, but I think the whole album needs to be stronger to make a bigger impression. Of course, in this new online market, singles are the important thing and not a collection of work. But I'm still kicking it Old School and taking a look at the entire presentation. Until songs are not part of albums anymore, I'll leave the discussion as such.

I do recommend the single "New Shoes". It is a light, fun single that will be good for a sunny day. A good Summer Single. The remainder of the album needs some structure work and lyrics could be more complex. To compare, fellow Scot KT Tunstall gives a nice album debut with "Eye to the Telescope". Lyrics are engaging and witty, and the melodies (on the fast beat songs) are original and surprising.

Check out both artists and compare...

-K

Police Reunion

2007-02-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Lots of rumors going around, first the Grammy appearance and now the possibility of a tour. I did catch their performance last night on the Grammy telecast...was anyone else disappointed that they did Roxanne? I would've liked to hear at least "Don't stand so close to me" or "Synchronicity II". And only one song? Why no medly at least? Hell, they gave Justin Timberlake two songs and who cares about him...his balls haven't even dropped yet.

There is one thing, one member of that band that has always impressed the hell out of me and has always stood out more than the other two. And no, I'm not talking about Sting. The real genius of that band?

Stewart. Copeland.

Love his drumming, his enthusiasm for the music. Just watching the performance last night, I see he hasn't lost one bit of his greatness. I'm an amateur music geek and am mesmerized on every Police song with the drum line. The staccato; always on the 2's and 4's, never on the 1's and 3's. He just wraps the cymbals around the beat and is always surprising in his choices. For that alone, I will go see this tour. Fuck Sting, he hasn't changed in 20 years. I want to Stewart to blow my mind.

The rest of the Grammy show was so-so, of course had to turn it off when they showcased the country acts around 10pm EST or my husband would vomit. Mary J blew the roof off with her song (as I knew she would). I also liked the trio of John Legend, Corinne Bailey Rae and John Mayer. You'd never see that outside of this venue, and it flowed together quite well.

And of course, I loved the big FUCK YOU to the country set by giving the Dixie Chicks 5 awards. Seems like that sends a clear message to the people: The music industry has their back, even if their supposed "fan base" doesn't. How long do people hold grudges? A long time, per my coworker Mike. He talked to some people from Tennesse during the telecast and they are still pissed at the Chicks. Get over it...I'm sure there is something better in life to feel rage about, like your son going to Iraq for the 3rd time.

Usually I think the Grammys are generally behind the times, but this one seemed a bit better. With the exception of the Tony Bennett/Stevie Wonder duet winning best collaberation (had anyone heard that song? ever?) they seemed better. Boy, they didn't want to reward Timberlake at all for some reason. I guess John Mayer got the benefit of the geriatrics not feeling Sexyback...

I'm Baaaaaaacccckkkk

2007-02-01T13:06:00.000-08:00

Not that anyone reads my drivel...but I've decided to dust off the keyboard again and start to post on a semi-regular basis. Congratulations to Animal on the thumb-size baby, can't wait to see him/her when the oven timer goes off!

Really, the state of the union is high on my mind. We're in Vietnam II; the unemployment rate in my state (MI) is over 7%; doom & gloom, doom & gloom. I'd really like to have a fast forward button to 2008 so we can reboot and start over.

Did anyone out there, I mean ANYONE, really believe we could enter this war and wash our hands of the country in a short amount of time? We're still in KOREA, for fuck's sake! And pulling out all of our soldiers at this point would be a disaster of epic proportions. Let's face it, folks...we dove into this 4 years ago, and we'll be swimming in that pool for many years to come. It doesn't matter the political posturing going on at this point, total pull out just ain't gonna happen.

So much for a war pulling the country out of recession. I'm not sure what rock some people are living under, but our economy is getting worse (and worse). At what point does any elected official stand up and do something about it? I was at first critical of the John Mayer song "Waiting for the World to Change" as an anthem for a lazy generation, but aren't we all helpless here? "It's hard to beat the system when we're standing at a distance"...that about sums it up.

Perhaps next post I'll be less cranky...let's hope not.

-K

Please do your civic duty!

2006-11-07T12:52:00.000-08:00

Today is Election Day in the big D (and around the country for that matter). I really don't care what your party leanings are or who you like to vote for...JUST VOTE! Don't ignore this gift we have; this privilege (you heard me, privilege) of voting.

Today reminded me that we all don't get that chance, that not every country is free; not every person can speak their mind. What a great place to live in that we, as a people, can make a difference in how our government is run. I know that one vote seems small, but every election is won by one vote at a time. For every person that stays home thinking they don't make a difference, I hope there are two out there that realize they can.

As my close friends can attest, I'm not one to give such a rah-rah speech about such things. But this topic is one that does fire me up. Please do your civic duty and rock that vote!

The Dozen Pleasures

2006-10-19T13:08:00.000-07:00

I've been inspired by a couple of blogs lately to post in the positive, too much complaining and negativity lately. Speaking of inspired, shout out to my friend and coworker Mike who is running his first marathon this weekend in Chi-town. This is a guy that has worked his butt off (literally and figuratively) to get this far. Just crossing the starting line is a big win, my friend...

On to today's topic, the top 12 things I love/can't live without in no particular order...

1) My husband - I know, obvious and corny, but totally true. Best friend, soul mate...my family. Period.

2) Hot chocolate w/marshmallows - gotta be real marshmallows, not those freeze dried turds that come in the Swiss Miss package. And I have to make it with real, whole milk. It makes those cold evenings a bit more bearable!

3) My music collection - saves my ass when I excercise; clean the house; need a lift or want to sing at the top of my lungs. Yes, I'm that nut job in the car next to you rocking out and pounding the steering wheel in my cheap imitation of Jet's "Cold Hard Bitch". LOVE IT!

4) My family - another corny one, but true. I got lucky in the gene pool; I actually look forward to holidays spent with my family. They are a good bunch of people, not too whacky and a nice sense of humor. :)

5) My sister Lynne - more specific than #4, but true. She's one of my best friends, probably right behind my husband. And being my sister, I lucked out that I like her as a person (not just 'cause I have to). She's going through a tough time right now, so everyone send out some good vibes her way...

6) Japanese Blossom shower gel - this stuff smells great. Not very sugary or sweet, just a nice pleasing scent that stays with you after the shower. It must have some lavender in it b/c it relaxes the hell out of me.

7) German chocolate - my husband is the crack dealer and I'm the addict! Buy a square of Ritter Sport, you'll never touch a Hersey bar again. Nothing like a good piece of chocolate and a glass of red wine....ahh, heaven!

8) My homemade macaroni and cheese - tooting my own horn, this shit is the bomb! Creamy, 3 or 4 cheeses used, and I sometimes toss in some ham cubes. Best fresh out of the oven, but I'll take the leftovers too...

9) Naps - big fan of the afternoon nap, probably b/c I don't get the opportunity that often. My favorite is getting up on the weekend around 7am and then going back to bed for a little snooze around 11am. Yeah...

10) My camera - I love to take photos, some day this will be more than a hobby. I really enjoy trying to look at a subject from a different perspective; to make it more interesting or to create a mood. I'm not talented enough to paint, so my Cannon is my electronic paintbrush.

11) Detroit sports - big Red Wings and Pistons fans live in my house, and I don't just mean our weight! We've jumped on the Tiger bandwagon too, but the Lions can go to hell...

AND last, but not least...

12) My close circle of friends - you know who you are; you know how much you mean to me!

That's all, I'm out...

Missile-anus Junk

2006-10-13T06:46:00.000-07:00

Shout out to my friend Kyle for the today's title, try using a file folder by that name. It helps to deal with the inanity of work...

First Topic: Go Tigers! I'll admit, I'm a fair-weather friend to our boys. I've been jumping all over this band wagon since about August or so. The real fan that is enjoying this ride to the max is my dad, the true Tiger fan. He's been watching them a long time, even when they stink so bad you need to cover your nose from the stench. I think we should dedicate this playoff run to all of those guys, the ones that have stuck through 22 years of bad times, crappy play, even crappier management.

Second: We had snow showers in the D yesterday. Uncool. It's not even Halloween, I haven't even reconciled the fact that I must now wear socks, and I still haven't put away my golf clubs in hopes of Indian Summer. I'm still holding out hope for a resurgence in the temps. You can pry my cold dead hand off of my driver by Christmas, please...

Third: Please, Mr. Bush, do not let anyone take out North Korean president Kim Jong Il. One day the crazy coot will kick the bucket and we'll be left holding the tab for the millions of refugees leaving that country, but in the meantime let's avoid that bill until it comes due, 'k?

Sorry for the randomness today, but the ADHD is in high gear on a Friday...

Weddings and other Musings

2006-10-02T18:25:00.000-07:00

Great time was had by all this past weekend up in TC. It was wonderful to spend time with my long-time, truest friends. Congratulations again to Jeff and Sue; we knew he'd make an honest woman out of you...

Oddly enough, I never appreciated weddings until I had one of my own. Weddings held the same appeal to me as a new filling or a really long day of shopping. Necessary to go, but really not enjoying it. They did have the promise of booze and a potential hookup, which is more than the dentist had to offer (he's not a good looking man).

But once I planned a wedding and actually walked down the aisle, my attitude changed. Now every wedding we attend brings back memories of that day and all of the warm, fuzzy feelings surrounding it. I have to say, it really was a perfect day. Probably because I told myself for months prior to that it would not be perfect and I shouldn't expect perfection. Perfect weather (sunny, 65 degrees farenheit, good for a notorious sweat-er), perfect setting, lots of family and friends that we both love. It probably helps that I'm deeply in love with my husband; he's my best friend and a great partner in all things small and great (and a good kisser to boot).

So I guess I finally get it, why weddings create such a fuss. It symbolizes what we all need: a reminder that the most important thing in life is love and celebrating it and sharing it.

I guess the other musings have dropped off, catch yáll later...

The Unfortunately named Intelligent Design

2006-09-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

I know I'm stepping into a pile of shit with this topic, but I gotta spout off...

Here in Michigan, we are having an election for our governor in November. The opponent, Dick Devos, came out last week in favor of teaching intelligent design in our public schools. I've got a few problems with this one:

1) Intelligent Design is not a theory, it is a Christian concept. Let's go over the definition of scientific theory, shall we? "a coherent group of general propositions used as principles of explanation for a class of phenomena. ex:Einstein's theory of relativity." Scientific theory is based on propositions that can be tested and supported by physical, tangible evidence. Intelligent Design is not; it is based on a belief or faith. Therefore, according to our country's constitution, it should not be taught in our public school system in order to separate the boundaries between church and state.

2) Since intelligent design is conjecture, we would be teaching our children (of all religious backgrounds) a potentially false concept. I know, we also taught our children that Pluto was a planet for the last 90 years (but I also knew it wasn't a planet if you dig deep enough into the textbooks). I have heard the arguements for this theory out of the mouths of children I know; I fear that it would undercut Michigan Youth's chances of being taken seriously in the workplace and life in general, especially outside of our home state.

3) The separation of church and state is what stands us as a nation apart from religious dictatorships like Iran. I know that many people get tired of the "Political Correct Police" interferring in our public education system; making the Christmas Party the Holiday Party, but think about it. If we sanctioned one religion in this nation and allowed it to pervade our schools and government, then our system is no better than Iran. It is one of the fundamental principals that makes our nation great; that we have the freedom to choose our religion and how we worship without the threat of intimidation by the government. I am very proud that my country allows such personal freedom. That is one of the reasons so many people are clamoring to enter the US and live here (contrary to the belief that the world hates us so much).

Let's not take two steps back. Let's make this a non-issue and not allow this to happen...

Apologies and Weddings

2006-09-22T06:38:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize it's been almost a month since my last post! Not a good way to hold your audience captive for sure...I'll try to be a better blogger in the future...

In this webisode, I want to give a shout out to my friends Jeff and Sue who are getting married next Saturday up in TC. Way to go, guys! I'm ecstatic that they are finally (I agree with Sue, Jeff) tying the knot! Here's an embarassing story for Jeff: I remember the day of their very first date. I was driving home from GR and called Jeff to keep awake. He was nervous/excited/peeing his pants over this date he was getting ready for. He had been corresponding w/Sue for a while, and was super nervous to meet her in person. I knew this girl must be special; Jeff doesn't work up a sweat for no reason (unless it involves wildlife). Looking forward to the long weekend with my very dear friends and witnessing this very special event! Go Team Emrich!

I'm also lamenting the death of Summer. Why, oh why, must I now wear socks?

Celebrity Obsession

2006-08-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

I suppose this is a sign of my age. Like a gray hair, or catching yourself saying "When I was your age"...something like that. Now, celebrity watching has been my guilty pleasure for quite some time. My husband can attest to the amount of time I've spent watching the E News channel or Entertainment Tonight or reading my Entertainment Weekly subscription (subscribing!).

What I've noticed the past year or so are these people that are famous for absolutely nothing. No talent; can't act; can't sing (tried both). I'm talking about all of the reality tv stars stretching their 15 minutes; the Paris Hiltons of the world. Even the gossip columnist Liz Smith hit it on the head when she called Hilton a commodity with no message.

At what point did Americans stop valuing talent? When did we decide that as long as you look hot with big hair and big lips you can be famous and make money? It's so freaking disappointing that real actors and musicians and painters and writers are pushed to the side to buy the latest crap CD, or "novel" (usually ghost written), or "movies". I've always been damn picky about the CDs, books or movies I buy/watch, but apparently most of America isn't.

Can't stand to see or read "crap". Can't really quantify "crap" either, I just know it when I smell it. I'd like to start a record label for ugly folks. Called Just Music Records. Maybe we can actually get people that can SING for once, or God forbid, can actually WRITE THEIR OWN DAMN MUSIC. I know, I know...I ask too much...

At least writers don't have to be hot...yet...

More cranky musings later!

Something good to read besides the tabloids...

2006-08-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let y'all know that there is a fantastic series on the Freep website this week and next by the journalist that was kidnapped for 3 weeks in the Middle East, Jill Carroll.

Each column is riveting. It seems that during the entire ordeal, one moment she was convinced her captor's would kill her and the next she would have hope that she would live. The column is just starting to tap into the hell her family went through as well.

We live such a safe, cushy life here in the US. Sure, you can get mugged or beaten up or raped (not discounting the horror of those things either), but you can walk in the mall or go to school or go to church without the fear of getting your ass blown to bits by a suicide bomber or cut in half by a machine gun for not covering your head properly. I mean, in general we have a great existence.

I really don't think my imagination could work hard enough to truly identify with the horror she went through (I'm sure it's just a Starbucks backup or something from all of the cushiness that is my life)...

Take a look at www.freep.com. It gives you a little appreciation for your own life...

Happy Friday, y'all...

The new flight regs...ugh

2006-08-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

I was thinking, will we be relegated to flying completely naked in a metal tube with no seats, liquids or bathrooms? And then my husband reminded me...someone could still shove a bomb up their own ass...

Oh well...

The Empire Strikes Bat

2006-08-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

The bat saga, part II.

I'll never look at tennis the same way...once again, on Monday night we had a bat intruder. This time, we were sleeping soundly when I woke up around 12:30am. At first I heard the usual scratching noise we always hear when they come in or out of the roof. Then I head that "pffft-pffft" noise of flying. In my hazy stupor, I thought "how can they fly in the roof? there's no room up there"...then I look over at my husband and his eyes are wide open. He slowly turns to me and says in a calm voice "It's in the bedroom".

You all know my reaction the first time this happened (see previous post). But here's the thing about me: Once I'm pissed off, I'm no longer afraid of anything...

So we got out of bed and turned the lights on. Batty McFly was zooming around, having a good ol' time flapping around. Again, we tried to shoo it out of the sliding door in our bedroom, but Dummy Flyjob didn't go for it. So I went to the basement and got the tennis racket.

We both went to the kitchen, and Uwe served up an ace! Smacked the lil' fucker onto the linoleum and held him down, while I threw a towel over the whole mess. Uwe tossed him outside and we cleaned up a little blood on the floor (all together now: ewwwwwwww). Next day of course, he was gone. Either crawled away to die or took to the skies again to wreak havoc on us another day. cue evil laughter BBBWWWAAAHAHAHAHAHAHA.....

Hopefully, no Return of the Bat-pie....

My husband, my hero!

2006-08-07T10:26:00.000-07:00

I have a new healthy respect for the size of my husband's cojones. As some of you know, we have had a problem with bats in our roof on and off for over 2 years. So far, we treat them like gays in the military. We know you're there, but as long as you don't bother us we'll let you be.

We took steps to seal up most of the house last month, the only thing left to do is fix some gaps in our ridge vent on the roof. I've been meaning to call the roofing company, and we just had some MAJOR motivation to get on the horn after last week:

ONE OF THE BATS GOT INTO THE HOUSE!

There we were, lying on the sofa watching tv, minding our own business. We both heard what sounded like a photo falling off of the refrigerator in the kitchen. Thought nothing of it. Then we heard it again, only a little more. It still didn't register with me that anything was wrong, until I saw the Brown Bastard out of the corner of my eye flying into our great room!

Needless to say, I screamed like a little girl! My husband was very calm as we scrunched down into the couch, but I was going apeshit! As the little f&cker got lower and lower towards our heads, Uwe sent me post-haste to the basement. He opened the door wall in the great room and in the bedroom, but by the time he came back downstairs he couldn't see him. I came out of the basement, and saw it HANGING ON THE BACK OF OUR WINDOW BLINDS! AAAGGGHHH!

Uwe calmly grabbed a fleece car blanket from the front closet, wrapped his hand in it. He then turned the slats of the blind with the chain to get a better angle on it and GRABBED IT! Then he took it out to the balcony and tossed it into the night! That was the most brave thing EVER! I was scared shitless, and he just took control and got rid of the critter like he was taking out the trash.

MY HERO FORVER!

Whole new meaning for Mad Max

2006-08-02T08:05:00.000-07:00

I'm sure by now you've seen all the press about Mel Gibson's DUI arrest in LA over the weekend. I've heard for years that he is not right; slightly crazy; VERY misogynist and anti-Semite. It just never made video until now (what a stupid ass).

I've never been a big fan of Mel Gibson. Never watched many of Mel's movies and never really swooned over his face during his "Sexiest Man Alive" period. The first thing that turned me off of him was an article I read about his wife. She is Christian, but not Catholic like he is. Because of this, Mel was quoted as saying that his wife is going to hell b/c she isn't baptised in the Catholic church. Does this bother Mel? Not really, he says...he's still devoted to the church, so he'll get to heaven. Sorry, lady. You're good enough to have 6 kids with, but not good enough to save from eternal damnation.

The second thing (not that it took another one) to turn me off was that his father was quoted as saying the Holocaust didn't happen. And that Mel refused to "go against his father" on the topic. Which is pretty much saying you agree. Because see, my dad has been a hard core Tigers fan for years, but I'm not going to back him up if he said five years ago that they were a great team; I'd call him out on it and we'd discuss it. Now, sure as shit I wouldn't sit back and just let a comment like "the Holocaust didn't happen" slide by and not say anything whether it was my dad or a stranger on the street. Ignorance is ignorance and we all have a duty to educate our fellow man.

So after seeing this past weekend's events, it's safe to say I wasn't surprised. Hugely disappointed, but not surprised. It just saddens me when I see examples of ignorance and hatred again and again in this modern world. The years after 9/11 have proved to be the worst, especially hatred and prejudice against people from the Middle East. I guess I just expect more from my fellow man. A higher intelligence to see through the bullshit and understand WHY things occur, not just HOW they happen or to buy into blatent lies about someone just because they speak differently or dress differently from you.

To see such a high profile individual make disparaging comments about Jews and women should NOT be tolerated and should be the end of his career making money off of the general public. We shouldn't elevate racist people to a position of power and influence, and we sure as hell shouldn't let them stay there.

Waste not, want not

2006-07-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

I stole today's topic from another blog I was reading a while ago. The blogger made the point that we, as a country, are a very wasteful lot. And I agree.

Now, let me back up a bit. I was (and still sometimes am) very guilty of living my life in the disposable society. I used to throw away my plastic bags, my cans and glass, newspaper, etc. I would not think twice about throwing the bananas out when one little brown spot appeared, and I would certainly run the dishwasher practically empty.

That said, living with my husband has opened my eyes up as to how other people in the world conserve. In Germany, like my husband says, they recycle anything that doesn't get up and walk away by itself. There is a bin for compost, one for paper, one for other recycle materials. Not to mention your regular garbage can. Do I think this is excessive? Sure is, but the trash pickup takes these items from their home on a weekly basis. With it being that easy, I think I could get on board with that. We do pay for recycling pickup at our home, so at least some items aren't dumped in the landfill. But Allied Waste still doesn't take our Styrofoam, any plastic item not marked with a "1" or a "2", or most plastic bags.

But really, my whole point doesn't start and stop with recycling. We waste food like crazy; tear down houses just to build new ones; use gasoline like we make it or something; leave every light on in the house; throw shit away when we are "done" with it. Why throw away that tired cabinet? Can't you sand it down and slap a new coat of paint on it? Eat those leftovers! Turn out the light if you leave the room!

I live near a land fill that grows exponentially every year. If we continue to live disposable, eventually we lose. I'm not a granola crunching tree-hugger with bare feet and dirty hair, but this shit is just common sense. If anything I've said will make you stop and think about tossing that newspaper in the garbage can, then it's all good...

Happy Friday all!

2006-07-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

Wishing you and yours a Happy Friday! Anyway, back to me...

I've never appreciated the value of a good night's sleep until I've started sleeping like shit. For the past couple of weeks, my sleep pattern is all jacked up. I wake up pretty much directly after every dream cycle I have, so I'm waking up about 5-7 times per night. At this point, the jacked up sleeping pattern has almost become habit.

So I'm polling the masses (ok, like all 2 of you that read this out there) to PLEASE comment on this post with some sleep ideas. I've tried red wine before bed so far. That works ok, but I can't become a drunk over this! Well, I could, but it would become an expensive habit...and Lord knows I save my money for the Victoria's Secret catalogue and trashy tabloid magazines...

2006-07-20T06:59:00.000-07:00

Ok, seriously...doesn't being elected as leader of the free world entitle you to some kind of etiquette lessons?!? Not that George Walker Bush hasn't embarrased us enough with his cute nicknames for anyone he meets; his "Mission accomplished" theater piece on the aircraft last year; the whole Iraq war.

I'm not talking about saying "shit" to Tony Blair during the G8 conference (actually, that made his stock rise a little in my book). I'm talking about the fact that he RUBBED ANGELA MERKEL'S SHOULDERS yesterday during a photo op. Now, for those of you that don't understand the significance of this, let me explain:

YOU DON'T TOUCH A GERMAN, EVER. Not unless they are your spouse, one of your parents, a sibling, or a child under the age of 15. They are not back-slapping, huggy, touchy-feely people. I'm pretty sure Ms. Merkel was mortified at the first touch of his short stubby fingers on the shoulder pad of her business jacket. Really, I'm surprised that her bodygoons didn't take him down right then and there. Now, there are some folks that say he wouldn't have done this if Ms. Merkel was a man. I disagree. George tries to make himself instantly familiar to everyone he meeets, and really looks for a touching opportunity whenever it presents itself.

Please, George, remember what we ALL learned in kindergarten: Keep your hands to yourself...

2006-07-17T08:18:00.000-07:00

Hey all! Hope everyone had a good weekend. My husband and I were weekend warriors, doing a major landscaping project. Of course, we pick a weekend that had average temps of 95 farenheit. Uncool! Fortunately, I've had a massage appointment set up for after work today. My shoulders are killing me!

I'm not complaining about the heat, don't get me wrong. We really haven't had hot temps this summer at all, and I like it warm. I just don't care for back-breaking manual labor in "did i die and go to hell already" hot.

Not much else to post today. I've just realized that this whole post looks like the work of an 85 year old woman. Oy vey! My aching back! Oy vey! The heat!

2006-07-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

Today is a happy, happy day! I was thrilled to pieces to learn that Valerie Plame has filed a lawsuit against the Bushie Trifecta: Dick Cheney, Scooter Libby and Karl Rove. I'm so relieved that this issue wasn't left to die a small, quiet media death. Perhaps there will actually be some kind of monetary punishment metted out on this yet!

For those of you that need to be caught up, the Plame case is one of the all time greats of Bush administration arrogancy. Plame's husband, Joseph Wilson, was on the "fact-finding" mission that the administration sent to Africa to locate proof that Saddam Huessin was trying to buy uranium on the open market. Wilson returned from that trip with no evidence, and told the administration as much. Bush continued to insinuate to the American people (and the world) that they had evidence of Saddam buying quality grade uranium when they in fact did not. It was at this point that Wilson, greatly concerned that a war could take place over this fact, went public in the New York Times with an editorial stating he never found evidence on his trip.

Curiously, not long after Wilson's editorial was published, several news sources identified his wife as a CIA agent. Not just any CIA agent, but an active, UNDERCOVER CIA agent. Revealing this little fact not only endangered Ms. Plame's life (and countless other undercover operatives tied to her), but her family as well. Not to mention it also endangered HOMELAND SECURITY. Way to go, Bushie!

I really thought that this was going to be another transgression that the American government was going to get away with, as most Americans resign themselves to thinking these days. But I've held out hope that our civil court systems may bring some justice to this world. Really, shouldn't this issue be our Watergate?

2006-07-12T10:53:00.000-07:00

Hello, all! First time blogger, long time reader. I've been inspired by my coworker Mike to start my own blog, just so we all know who to blame in the future. The whole blogging phenomena is intriguing to me. Why the hell would someone want to view my thoughts? Why the hell not?

I have to say, the pressure to be witty and hip is enormous. Please forgive the plebian vibe for the first couple of postings. I'll be putting up some of my photography work as well, be gentle...and enjoy!