So, they other night while I was getting ready for bed, I noticed something very disturbing. As I was brushing my teeth, I was appalled to feel something shaking in my lower half. If you are wondering if I was brushing my teeth with extreme vigor, I was not. Just the normal back and forth. My point is, my thighs and rear end were SHAKING!!
As I am getting older, I have noticed that things are starting to "fall." I didn't think this was supposed to happen until I at least got into my thirties. What is the deal? I am pretty sure I have resolved the issue. My metabolism is dying.
I have never been one to struggle with my weight. (Don't throw things at me - I just have been active for the majority of my life.) Of course, I am a normal girl and always feel like there are an extra 5 pounds or so that I could do without, but for the most part, things have been pretty stable. Until recently...
I have noticed that if I stray from my normal diet (say with some ice cream, maybe a cheeseburger) my weight jumps up within 24 hours. When I was in middle school/high school, Wednesday nights were our "take out" nights. My dad had a late clinic, so we headed to Taco Bell or Rally's. I see now that if my father was not home, feeding your children a well balanced meal was not a priority...:-) Regardless, these restaurants were right next to each other, so I indulged in both. My mom thinks I am making this up, but let's be honest. She had 3 kids in the car. Do you really think her memory on this particular point is spot on? I would inhale a Big Buford (that is a double cheeseburger), french fries, a Nachos Bell Grande and 2 soft tacos with sour cream - no problem. Granted, I was dancing at least 2 hours a day. My weight remained stable and my driver's license still says 110. Ha! (I like to say that I have gained impressive amounts of muscle.) Now, multiple pounds later, if I were to look at that food, my stomach would start protruding and my rear end would drop a few more inches.
Last night we did take out because I didn't make it to the grocery store - (I saw The Proposal instead.) I told Mike I was tired of my diet of ruffage and pasta. (These things are cheap - that is why we are eating them.) I ordered a cheeseburger and french fries. Of course, he also came home with potato skins, fried mushrooms and wings. (If you know my boyfriend at all, this is not a surprise. I gained 10 pounds when we started dating because I was trying to keep up with his wing intake.) 3 mushrooms in, I thought I was going to throw up. (Don't worry, I ate half the cheeseburger and all the fries anyway.) I guess this is my body's way of saying I cannot handle this food anymore. I was sprawled out horizontally willing my intake of fried fat to digest.
So I was thinking. I used to run to relieve stress, and have those endorphins kick in. Now in addition to that, I guess I am running to eat! If this is a problem now, what am I going to be eating in 20 years?? Maybe I will invest in an electric toothbrush - that may make me feel better!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
Ahh Friday Night
It has been so long since Mike and I have done something together outside of our condo as a couple. Yes we eat dinner together several times a week but he has been so busy with work and I have been so busy having nothing to do. It has been a tough week for me and I have been really struggling to stay positive. I think my biggest struggle comes from being lonely, which is something that I am really working on. Trying to find peace when I am by myself.
Regardless, my body does not seem to know how to handle all the anxiety I am going through so I am either running (literally) or I am crying. Not necessarily because I am sad, but just because it really does seem to relieve some stress. Today, after a long day of waking up at noon, worrying about money, eating anything in the house and reading Twilight, I decided to take a nap. Usually all the stress and panic hits right around 7 pm when I realize I have not done a thing with my day. Nothing different tonight. I started getting snappy with Mike and then went into the other room and stared at the ceiling. When he came in to check on me, I was, of course, crying again.
He told me to get dressed (yes, still in my pajamas) and to get in the car. I was like a puppy. It had been so long since I had even been in his car I couldn't contain myself. I couldn't stop talking and jabbering on about nothing. We rolled the windows down and drove to my "surprise" location. It is actually beautiful up here at night and remarkably cool in comparison to the South. We went to Forest Park, which I have been told "competes" with Central Park, in size. This is where I often run and there are so many random places where you can just sit and marvel at how beautiful the area is. We drove over to a spot where there are tons of fountains and just sat there. We weren't even talking (not in a bad way) and it was wonderful! I reminded Mike that this is what couples are SUPPOSED to be doing on Friday nights!
Don't worry, if you thought it was all roses and candelight while Mike whispered sweet nothings in my ear, that is not really the way we roll. Example below:
Mike: How long is that race you are running again?
Me: It is called a marathon. It is 26.2 miles.
Mike: What? Why would you do that? That is not impressive to me.
Me: Thanks. That is not why I am doing it. I am doing it for my own sense of accomplishment. And how is that not impressive to you? You are out of breath right now!
Mike: I don't understand why you would want to run a 26.2 mile marathon.
Me: Don't say that in public. You are saying the same thing twice. (Isn't there a word for that?)
Mike: Are you going to win this marathon? Now that would be cool. Do you get some money if you win?
Sorry ladies, he is taken....(no, this is not my line. It goes to my friend Kristen, here in St. Louis.)
After we sat for awhile, our mini date night was over. Mike had to get back to work and I had more of Twilight to read. I meekly suggested that maybe we should get some ice cream? Mike acted like we were not going to stop, but SCORE! I got a strawberry shortcake extravaganza and ate the entire thing. See how easy I am to please? Just like a little kid. Now we are back at home, Mike is playing his guitar (this is how he procrastinates/"gets in the mood to write") and I am about to watch some t.v. This is the happiest I have been in a long time. It was so nice to spend some quality time with Mike and reconnect - just shows you don't need a lot of money to make you happy!
Regardless, my body does not seem to know how to handle all the anxiety I am going through so I am either running (literally) or I am crying. Not necessarily because I am sad, but just because it really does seem to relieve some stress. Today, after a long day of waking up at noon, worrying about money, eating anything in the house and reading Twilight, I decided to take a nap. Usually all the stress and panic hits right around 7 pm when I realize I have not done a thing with my day. Nothing different tonight. I started getting snappy with Mike and then went into the other room and stared at the ceiling. When he came in to check on me, I was, of course, crying again.
He told me to get dressed (yes, still in my pajamas) and to get in the car. I was like a puppy. It had been so long since I had even been in his car I couldn't contain myself. I couldn't stop talking and jabbering on about nothing. We rolled the windows down and drove to my "surprise" location. It is actually beautiful up here at night and remarkably cool in comparison to the South. We went to Forest Park, which I have been told "competes" with Central Park, in size. This is where I often run and there are so many random places where you can just sit and marvel at how beautiful the area is. We drove over to a spot where there are tons of fountains and just sat there. We weren't even talking (not in a bad way) and it was wonderful! I reminded Mike that this is what couples are SUPPOSED to be doing on Friday nights!
Don't worry, if you thought it was all roses and candelight while Mike whispered sweet nothings in my ear, that is not really the way we roll. Example below:
Mike: How long is that race you are running again?
Me: It is called a marathon. It is 26.2 miles.
Mike: What? Why would you do that? That is not impressive to me.
Me: Thanks. That is not why I am doing it. I am doing it for my own sense of accomplishment. And how is that not impressive to you? You are out of breath right now!
Mike: I don't understand why you would want to run a 26.2 mile marathon.
Me: Don't say that in public. You are saying the same thing twice. (Isn't there a word for that?)
Mike: Are you going to win this marathon? Now that would be cool. Do you get some money if you win?
Sorry ladies, he is taken....(no, this is not my line. It goes to my friend Kristen, here in St. Louis.)
After we sat for awhile, our mini date night was over. Mike had to get back to work and I had more of Twilight to read. I meekly suggested that maybe we should get some ice cream? Mike acted like we were not going to stop, but SCORE! I got a strawberry shortcake extravaganza and ate the entire thing. See how easy I am to please? Just like a little kid. Now we are back at home, Mike is playing his guitar (this is how he procrastinates/"gets in the mood to write") and I am about to watch some t.v. This is the happiest I have been in a long time. It was so nice to spend some quality time with Mike and reconnect - just shows you don't need a lot of money to make you happy!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
What Would Ms. Manners Say?
Well, if you noticed, I did write another post less than 12 hours ago. However, I am super bored, have insomnia, and have already run. Not sure what to do with the rest of the day, so I decided to grace you with another blog. Last night I was thinking about how people's manners seem to have waned, especially in the days of cell phones and extravagant technology. This has nothing to do with being Southern. I assure you, although I truly believe that people are generally nicer to your face in the South, there are plenty of Southerners that seem to have forgotten the manners their mama taught them.
Because I am bored and only able to spend money on food, I am at the grocery store a lot. It gets me out of the house and takes up some time. (It is only 1 mile away from our home. Sometimes I go twice a day.) Regardless, the cashiers have begun to recognize me. I made a particular impression on a man in his mid-40's, early 50's when he asked me if I had any coupons. Now, I don't know if this is a new requirement for cashiers to ask about. I guess so we don't forget our neatly clipped coupons in our neatly arranged plastic coupon holder? But I promise you, the people who have the coupons have them out and are ready to save some money! When you ask me, (and I am not a coupon clipper) I just feel bad about myself and my inability to save money. I digress. When I told the cashier, "No, I don't have any coupons" he replied, "You don't really look like the kind of person that would." WHAT?? What does that mean? Do I look super rich and fancy? (If you read this regularly, you know that is not the case.) Do super rich and fancy people not use coupons either? I am pretty sure I was wearing running clothes at the time, so my clothing was not a clue to my non-coupon cutting. What does this mean? (See how I have too much time on my hands? Why am I worrying about what the grocery store cashier thinks of me?)
So, I felt that comment that was inappropriate, particularly regarding how much money I spend at that store! What I also think is rude (while we are at the grocery store) is when people talk on their phones while they are being checked out. Grocery store, retail store, anywhere - it is very difficult for the person behind the counter to help you while you are gabbing about your date the night before. I know it is interesting, but could you please call them back? And I know you think that you are being as efficient as you would be if you were not on the phone, but you're not. You are holding up the line. So hang up the phone and let's get the conveyor belt moving!
Something else I have noticed is that there has been a steep decline of thank you letters since technology became so interactive. I am a HUGE fan of the written letter. If I have taken the time to go out of my way to do something for you (i.e, buy you a wedding gift, baby shower gift, etc) I think you should take a little extra time and write me a note. Even if I didn't buy you something, did I do something for you that was extraordinarily nice? It always makes someone feel good to know that their actions are appreciated. I am not saying that I do things just to be acknowledged for my good deeds, but come on! Throw out a "Thank you for your lovely gift. We will use it often throughout our marriage," stick a stamp on it and you are done! If this is too difficult, please send an email, text or contact me on my facebook page to let me know you got your swag. You are welcome.
Finally, let's talk about borrowing clothes. I am not talking about when you were in 8th grade and swapped your GAP t-shirts with your best friend. We are a little older now, and most of us have some "special occasion" wear that we have invested money in. If you ask to borrow something of mine, I am thrilled! I am excited that you like my sense of style, and quite honestly, I am happy that you will look so cute in MY new halter top! However, if you attend an event that is smoky, or if you spill wine, grape fruit juice or coke on my top/dress/pants please dry clean them. Even if you don't spill anything, that is just the proper thing to do. The piece of apparel was probably straight from the dry cleaners when you got it. Why would you return it in a state less than that? (And make sure you send a text to say thank you!)
Well, that is my rant for the day. Hopefully I will find something to do with my time so that I am not posting again in a few hours. Have a great day today and don't forget to mind your P's and Q's!
Because I am bored and only able to spend money on food, I am at the grocery store a lot. It gets me out of the house and takes up some time. (It is only 1 mile away from our home. Sometimes I go twice a day.) Regardless, the cashiers have begun to recognize me. I made a particular impression on a man in his mid-40's, early 50's when he asked me if I had any coupons. Now, I don't know if this is a new requirement for cashiers to ask about. I guess so we don't forget our neatly clipped coupons in our neatly arranged plastic coupon holder? But I promise you, the people who have the coupons have them out and are ready to save some money! When you ask me, (and I am not a coupon clipper) I just feel bad about myself and my inability to save money. I digress. When I told the cashier, "No, I don't have any coupons" he replied, "You don't really look like the kind of person that would." WHAT?? What does that mean? Do I look super rich and fancy? (If you read this regularly, you know that is not the case.) Do super rich and fancy people not use coupons either? I am pretty sure I was wearing running clothes at the time, so my clothing was not a clue to my non-coupon cutting. What does this mean? (See how I have too much time on my hands? Why am I worrying about what the grocery store cashier thinks of me?)
So, I felt that comment that was inappropriate, particularly regarding how much money I spend at that store! What I also think is rude (while we are at the grocery store) is when people talk on their phones while they are being checked out. Grocery store, retail store, anywhere - it is very difficult for the person behind the counter to help you while you are gabbing about your date the night before. I know it is interesting, but could you please call them back? And I know you think that you are being as efficient as you would be if you were not on the phone, but you're not. You are holding up the line. So hang up the phone and let's get the conveyor belt moving!
Something else I have noticed is that there has been a steep decline of thank you letters since technology became so interactive. I am a HUGE fan of the written letter. If I have taken the time to go out of my way to do something for you (i.e, buy you a wedding gift, baby shower gift, etc) I think you should take a little extra time and write me a note. Even if I didn't buy you something, did I do something for you that was extraordinarily nice? It always makes someone feel good to know that their actions are appreciated. I am not saying that I do things just to be acknowledged for my good deeds, but come on! Throw out a "Thank you for your lovely gift. We will use it often throughout our marriage," stick a stamp on it and you are done! If this is too difficult, please send an email, text or contact me on my facebook page to let me know you got your swag. You are welcome.
Finally, let's talk about borrowing clothes. I am not talking about when you were in 8th grade and swapped your GAP t-shirts with your best friend. We are a little older now, and most of us have some "special occasion" wear that we have invested money in. If you ask to borrow something of mine, I am thrilled! I am excited that you like my sense of style, and quite honestly, I am happy that you will look so cute in MY new halter top! However, if you attend an event that is smoky, or if you spill wine, grape fruit juice or coke on my top/dress/pants please dry clean them. Even if you don't spill anything, that is just the proper thing to do. The piece of apparel was probably straight from the dry cleaners when you got it. Why would you return it in a state less than that? (And make sure you send a text to say thank you!)
Well, that is my rant for the day. Hopefully I will find something to do with my time so that I am not posting again in a few hours. Have a great day today and don't forget to mind your P's and Q's!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
One Thing Leads to Another
Well, I had already read the book, but I just watched the movie. Here are my new favorite quotes from 'Confessions of a Shopaholic:'
- A man will never love you and treat you as well as a store.
- If a man doesn't fit, you can't exchange him seven days later for a gorgeous cashmere sweater.
- A store can awaken a lust for things you never knew you needed.
Ahh, unfortunately, although I believe that a man and the store can both love you equally, I am ashamed to admit that I identified with each of these statements! Lately, it has gotten worse - I think because of my financial downfall. Now, I am forced to look at everything I am unable to purchase, rather than grabbing things up and dealing with the bill later. (I had an issue with Banana Republic right when I got out of college. I don't want to go into it - the wound is still a little too fresh.)
Anyway, I am one that can go into the drug store for lotion and come out with $100 less in my bank account. What am I buying? Only things I NEED, I justify. Really, if I go ahead and buy the nail polish, won't that keep me from later spending money on a pedicure? (This one actually worked.) Does anyone else have the problem of walking into the Hallmark aisle and immediately thinking of 5 people you should definitely correspond with via snail mail? And don't get me started on the 2 for 1 deals. Those are the worst. I am ashamed to write this, but I have a very serious sense of entitlement and am somehow able to justify my shopping with ridiculous excuses! (Until I get home and have to reveal my purchases. Then I feel like a puppy that has just torn all the toilet paper off the roll and run with it through the house. And got caught.)
Lately, the longing for things has gotten worse. Remember how I told you I am training for a marathon? Well, in order for one to run in a marathon, one must dress in appropriate running wear. That matches. And you must have enough outfits to change into so that you are not running in salty, sweaty clothing. Right? I recently realized that I look like a huge piece of bubble gum when I go run. I have hot pink running shoes (betcha didn't know they made those!), a pink running top, pink watch and, for when I finish, a pink water bottle. The kind that won't give me cancer. I told Mike yesterday that I want one of these watches from Garmin that not only times you (that is so '90's), it also tracks your pace, how many calories you are burning and, of course, has a GPS so you never get lost. How has anyone ever run without this?? These are only "running" for approximately $325.
I have noticed this need for all out mania in other parts of my life. I can't take just one thing at a time. I have to have it all at once. Don't tell me to be patient. I got to buy some curtains for our bedroom when I quit my job (see, this shouldn't make me feel better...but it did.) Mike finally put them up this weekend. This was after my grandmother yelled at him to get moving over the phone....that is a whole other post. So the curtains go up, and we find a painting that we already had to hang in between the windows. Fairly cheap, and it looks incredible. I am so happy and just want to spend all my time in this room. It just feels so peaceful and relaxing. Until the next day when I decided that I need some throw pillows and a new set of sheets to match the curtains. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?? Mike threw that "no" out before I could even finish my sentence.
Finally, when my mother came to help me when my elbow was broken, we went through the closet and gave a LOT of stuff to Good Will. (There are going to be some homeless people wearing some very trendy things this year. Well...they were trendy when I bought them 5 years ago.) This purge included a yellow dress that I loved, but was ruined from a wine stain. I will say, I got some good wedding wear out of that dress, thank you again Banana Republic. The point of the story is this. I am going to another wedding in July. How did a justify the purchase of my new red dress with flirty ruffled skirt? A) I needed to replace the yellow dress. B) I am an attendant and will be walking down the aisle for everyone to see. C) I will not be buying any accessories to go with that dress....except for the necklace I bought BEFORE I saw the dress.
I don't know how this happened to me. My parents are frugal people - smart with money, and they taught us to do the same. My middle sister probably has all her cash hidden under her mattress. Really, We used to laugh because she didn't want to loan us money (she knew she would never see it again). My dad even suggested she charge interest on it. Even my youngest sister is fairly (she has gotten better) responsible with her shopping habits. So for the time being, I am going to continue avoiding malls, drug stores...really anywhere that I can buy things that are unnecessary (i.e. not food) until my willpower is just a little stronger.
- A man will never love you and treat you as well as a store.
- If a man doesn't fit, you can't exchange him seven days later for a gorgeous cashmere sweater.
- A store can awaken a lust for things you never knew you needed.
Ahh, unfortunately, although I believe that a man and the store can both love you equally, I am ashamed to admit that I identified with each of these statements! Lately, it has gotten worse - I think because of my financial downfall. Now, I am forced to look at everything I am unable to purchase, rather than grabbing things up and dealing with the bill later. (I had an issue with Banana Republic right when I got out of college. I don't want to go into it - the wound is still a little too fresh.)
Anyway, I am one that can go into the drug store for lotion and come out with $100 less in my bank account. What am I buying? Only things I NEED, I justify. Really, if I go ahead and buy the nail polish, won't that keep me from later spending money on a pedicure? (This one actually worked.) Does anyone else have the problem of walking into the Hallmark aisle and immediately thinking of 5 people you should definitely correspond with via snail mail? And don't get me started on the 2 for 1 deals. Those are the worst. I am ashamed to write this, but I have a very serious sense of entitlement and am somehow able to justify my shopping with ridiculous excuses! (Until I get home and have to reveal my purchases. Then I feel like a puppy that has just torn all the toilet paper off the roll and run with it through the house. And got caught.)
Lately, the longing for things has gotten worse. Remember how I told you I am training for a marathon? Well, in order for one to run in a marathon, one must dress in appropriate running wear. That matches. And you must have enough outfits to change into so that you are not running in salty, sweaty clothing. Right? I recently realized that I look like a huge piece of bubble gum when I go run. I have hot pink running shoes (betcha didn't know they made those!), a pink running top, pink watch and, for when I finish, a pink water bottle. The kind that won't give me cancer. I told Mike yesterday that I want one of these watches from Garmin that not only times you (that is so '90's), it also tracks your pace, how many calories you are burning and, of course, has a GPS so you never get lost. How has anyone ever run without this?? These are only "running" for approximately $325.
I have noticed this need for all out mania in other parts of my life. I can't take just one thing at a time. I have to have it all at once. Don't tell me to be patient. I got to buy some curtains for our bedroom when I quit my job (see, this shouldn't make me feel better...but it did.) Mike finally put them up this weekend. This was after my grandmother yelled at him to get moving over the phone....that is a whole other post. So the curtains go up, and we find a painting that we already had to hang in between the windows. Fairly cheap, and it looks incredible. I am so happy and just want to spend all my time in this room. It just feels so peaceful and relaxing. Until the next day when I decided that I need some throw pillows and a new set of sheets to match the curtains. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?? Mike threw that "no" out before I could even finish my sentence.
Finally, when my mother came to help me when my elbow was broken, we went through the closet and gave a LOT of stuff to Good Will. (There are going to be some homeless people wearing some very trendy things this year. Well...they were trendy when I bought them 5 years ago.) This purge included a yellow dress that I loved, but was ruined from a wine stain. I will say, I got some good wedding wear out of that dress, thank you again Banana Republic. The point of the story is this. I am going to another wedding in July. How did a justify the purchase of my new red dress with flirty ruffled skirt? A) I needed to replace the yellow dress. B) I am an attendant and will be walking down the aisle for everyone to see. C) I will not be buying any accessories to go with that dress....except for the necklace I bought BEFORE I saw the dress.
I don't know how this happened to me. My parents are frugal people - smart with money, and they taught us to do the same. My middle sister probably has all her cash hidden under her mattress. Really, We used to laugh because she didn't want to loan us money (she knew she would never see it again). My dad even suggested she charge interest on it. Even my youngest sister is fairly (she has gotten better) responsible with her shopping habits. So for the time being, I am going to continue avoiding malls, drug stores...really anywhere that I can buy things that are unnecessary (i.e. not food) until my willpower is just a little stronger.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Love, Actually!!
I am so excited. Yesterday I got a message from one of my best college girlfriends saying, "Call me back...I am have some neeeews!!!" If you are a girl, you know what that means. She is engaged!!! I am thrilled. I am truly so happy for her because I don't think this could happen to a better person. This girl is hilarious, grounded, smart and beautiful - a perfect package - and I am so happy that she has found the love of her life.
With that said, I have never met him! Isn't it weird, as we get older and move to different cities, the people that you lived with and knew everything about, are marrying someone you have never met? They have been dating for three years (I think) but I have never made my way down to San Antonio to meet him.
So here's the story - everyone loves a good engagement story, right? (And I did obtain her permission to write this. She is a lawyer as well.)
This all happened quickly, it seems. One day the future hubby (FH) asked my friend to go grab some ice cream. Instead, they went to Tiffany's to look at rings! That is SO much better than ice cream. I guess they got her finger measured and tried on different styles. Heads up guys, this is a huge clue to us that you are on the right track. Within a few days, FH was telling my friend that their parents needed to meet. This is where my friend started to freak out. FH's family is from Miami. They are very devout in their Judiasm. My friend is Jewish, but when we were in college, the only thing I learned from her was which holiday macaroons are sold. (Those are fantastic by the way - have you had them?) And by the way, I really don't remember which holiday that is....
Anyway, my friend "staged" her father's house to look more religious than it really was. I thought this was hilarious! My friend explained that many Jewish households have mezuzahs hanging either in the front door or "should be fixed to the doorpost of every living space. These are symbols showing that the home is of the Jewish religion." (Thank you MyJewishLearning.com). FH's family has mezuzahs all through their house, as the website suggets. My friend's father had NONE. So, friend went to buy mezuzahs and hammered them around her father's house! The dinner went well, and the next day, my friend's father brought back the mezuzahs in a box saying, "Hey - here are your props." Don't worry, the FH knows this was all for show.
My friend, as I do, likes to be in the loop. She reminded FH that he had to ask her father for
permission to marry her. She then suggested that she attend this lunch with them. That got nixed. So, father and FH had lunch and all went well. Apparently dad likes FH so that is a big plus.
Friday night, my friend and FH went out with friends for dinner. After dinner, FH feigned sickness and told my friend she needed to go home. My friend was not happy as she was excited to hang out with everyone and kept telling FH how lame he was. So romantic! Once they got home, my friend didn't see any roses or candles, so she said, (this is an exact quote) "Maybe the kid really is sick?" FH suggested that they play a board game and then they got into a tiff about who was going to set up the pieces. (Isn't it funny how, try as you might, day to day life just isn't romantic?) My friend finally gave in and started to set up the game because she felt sorry that FH might be sick. When she opened the box, the Tiffany's box was inside and he was down on one knee!!! Yay!!!
So, of course she said yes and friend and FH will probably be getting married next spring. I started asking all sorts of questions, but she didn't really have any answers for me quite yet. I think she is still in shock!! She admits that she was caught several times staring at her new piece of jewelry once they went back out to meet their friends. Again, I am so excited for them and cannot wait to meet this FH. I especially can't wait for the reception where we get to throw them around on chairs!! I need to start working out. Congratulations!!
With that said, I have never met him! Isn't it weird, as we get older and move to different cities, the people that you lived with and knew everything about, are marrying someone you have never met? They have been dating for three years (I think) but I have never made my way down to San Antonio to meet him.
So here's the story - everyone loves a good engagement story, right? (And I did obtain her permission to write this. She is a lawyer as well.)
This all happened quickly, it seems. One day the future hubby (FH) asked my friend to go grab some ice cream. Instead, they went to Tiffany's to look at rings! That is SO much better than ice cream. I guess they got her finger measured and tried on different styles. Heads up guys, this is a huge clue to us that you are on the right track. Within a few days, FH was telling my friend that their parents needed to meet. This is where my friend started to freak out. FH's family is from Miami. They are very devout in their Judiasm. My friend is Jewish, but when we were in college, the only thing I learned from her was which holiday macaroons are sold. (Those are fantastic by the way - have you had them?) And by the way, I really don't remember which holiday that is....
Anyway, my friend "staged" her father's house to look more religious than it really was. I thought this was hilarious! My friend explained that many Jewish households have mezuzahs hanging either in the front door or "should be fixed to the doorpost of every living space. These are symbols showing that the home is of the Jewish religion." (Thank you MyJewishLearning.com). FH's family has mezuzahs all through their house, as the website suggets. My friend's father had NONE. So, friend went to buy mezuzahs and hammered them around her father's house! The dinner went well, and the next day, my friend's father brought back the mezuzahs in a box saying, "Hey - here are your props." Don't worry, the FH knows this was all for show.
My friend, as I do, likes to be in the loop. She reminded FH that he had to ask her father for
permission to marry her. She then suggested that she attend this lunch with them. That got nixed. So, father and FH had lunch and all went well. Apparently dad likes FH so that is a big plus.
Friday night, my friend and FH went out with friends for dinner. After dinner, FH feigned sickness and told my friend she needed to go home. My friend was not happy as she was excited to hang out with everyone and kept telling FH how lame he was. So romantic! Once they got home, my friend didn't see any roses or candles, so she said, (this is an exact quote) "Maybe the kid really is sick?" FH suggested that they play a board game and then they got into a tiff about who was going to set up the pieces. (Isn't it funny how, try as you might, day to day life just isn't romantic?) My friend finally gave in and started to set up the game because she felt sorry that FH might be sick. When she opened the box, the Tiffany's box was inside and he was down on one knee!!! Yay!!!
So, of course she said yes and friend and FH will probably be getting married next spring. I started asking all sorts of questions, but she didn't really have any answers for me quite yet. I think she is still in shock!! She admits that she was caught several times staring at her new piece of jewelry once they went back out to meet their friends. Again, I am so excited for them and cannot wait to meet this FH. I especially can't wait for the reception where we get to throw them around on chairs!! I need to start working out. Congratulations!!
Friday, July 3, 2009
A Slippery Slope
WARNING: This post involves a lot of me feeling sorry for myself, but I try to beef it up with some humor. Read at your own risk!
Today marks one week since I have been unemployed. I knew eventually the day would come when I would not enjoy the feeling of being able to sleep in and knowing that I had absolutely nothing to do that day. Well, it has arrived. Actually, it arrived yesterday. I don't know why, but I woke up in a horrible mood. I was even annoyed at my running partner because she was running too fast (sorry Shana - clearly this was situational.) However, once we finished, I was feeling better and able to run errands, make a marinade for dinner that night and fold some laundry - all by 10:00 am!
Then the problem set in. What in the world was I going to do for the rest of the day? Usually I space these errands out, so I have at least one to do every day or every few hours. That run and an extra cup of coffee made me overzealous and left with nothing to do. So I got back in bed. A few hours later, I woke up...what to do now? I am tired of watching television and didn't feel like reading. Already went running...hmmm.
I can't even tell you what I did for the next few hours. There is a large chance I was laying on the couch staring at the ceiling during them. The other issue here is Mike's schedule. Because he is writing papers for his comps (which are due in a month and half, no pressure) he is on the most irregular schedule I have ever seen. He has always been a night owl, but this is out of control. When I left to run yesterday morning, (5:45 am) his eyes were glazed over as he stared at the television. So, we are trying to sort that out. Growing pains, I tell you.
I went to bed last night after watching Love Actually, crying hysterically and throwing things that wouldn't actually create any damage (and consequently did not make me feel better.) These items included my chapstick and a hair clip. Also, if I throw anything substantial I have to pay for it, and let's face it - that is not in the cards. Maybe I could join an anger management group - do you think I would make friends there?
Today I woke up with the same issue. I perused Craig's List and other job sites for employment, submitted my applications and continued to complain to/at Mike for no particular reason. I am a joy to cohabitate with. I ate two bowls of ice cream and then went to sit outside and stare pensively at the street and all the happy people walking by. I called up our friend to take his dog for a run/walk again. After he made me promise I wouldn't run him, I gathered up the dog. (I only ran him until he looked tired...)
So, I am back at home. Counting Crows are playing free under the arch tonight, with fireworks following the show. All of our 3 friends are going. Mike is working. I think I am going to watch Love Actually again. Should I get in my pajamas and see when Judge Judy comes on?
Today marks one week since I have been unemployed. I knew eventually the day would come when I would not enjoy the feeling of being able to sleep in and knowing that I had absolutely nothing to do that day. Well, it has arrived. Actually, it arrived yesterday. I don't know why, but I woke up in a horrible mood. I was even annoyed at my running partner because she was running too fast (sorry Shana - clearly this was situational.) However, once we finished, I was feeling better and able to run errands, make a marinade for dinner that night and fold some laundry - all by 10:00 am!
Then the problem set in. What in the world was I going to do for the rest of the day? Usually I space these errands out, so I have at least one to do every day or every few hours. That run and an extra cup of coffee made me overzealous and left with nothing to do. So I got back in bed. A few hours later, I woke up...what to do now? I am tired of watching television and didn't feel like reading. Already went running...hmmm.
I can't even tell you what I did for the next few hours. There is a large chance I was laying on the couch staring at the ceiling during them. The other issue here is Mike's schedule. Because he is writing papers for his comps (which are due in a month and half, no pressure) he is on the most irregular schedule I have ever seen. He has always been a night owl, but this is out of control. When I left to run yesterday morning, (5:45 am) his eyes were glazed over as he stared at the television. So, we are trying to sort that out. Growing pains, I tell you.
I went to bed last night after watching Love Actually, crying hysterically and throwing things that wouldn't actually create any damage (and consequently did not make me feel better.) These items included my chapstick and a hair clip. Also, if I throw anything substantial I have to pay for it, and let's face it - that is not in the cards. Maybe I could join an anger management group - do you think I would make friends there?
Today I woke up with the same issue. I perused Craig's List and other job sites for employment, submitted my applications and continued to complain to/at Mike for no particular reason. I am a joy to cohabitate with. I ate two bowls of ice cream and then went to sit outside and stare pensively at the street and all the happy people walking by. I called up our friend to take his dog for a run/walk again. After he made me promise I wouldn't run him, I gathered up the dog. (I only ran him until he looked tired...)
So, I am back at home. Counting Crows are playing free under the arch tonight, with fireworks following the show. All of our 3 friends are going. Mike is working. I think I am going to watch Love Actually again. Should I get in my pajamas and see when Judge Judy comes on?
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Our Condo
I love our condo. It is in a nice area, we have a balcony where we can grill out and it is in a very central location. The only catch is the people who live in our building. Somehow, when Mike was shopping for housing in St. Louis, the realtor regretted to inform him that the majority of people that lived in the condo are older widows who have very little to do with their time. Oops.
Let me introduce you to Cookie. She is a widowed grandma, who I have to equate to the nosey neighbor across the street. She actually really reminds me of the mom on "Everybody Loves Raymond." When I was in Mississippi I thought Mike was exaggerating when he talked about how much Cookie (or the Cookie Monster, as she has been dubbed) seemed to know about his life. When I moved up here, everything was verified. Mike orders a lot of books about Criminology that are delivered through UPS. Packages that people receive are left in the mail area for everyone to see. Cookie stopped me in the hall one day and said, "My! I noticed that Mike sure is getting a lot of packages. What is he ordering?" I think she thinks we are drug dealers.
Cookie also likes to inquire about my job situation, or lack thereof. Since the answer is always the same, I have started avoiding her when I see her. I run to the stairs rather than taking the elevator, or wait until I know she is gone before I leave our condo. (That's kind of pathetic now that I write it out.) Anyway, last week I posted a flyer advertising my babysitting services on the community bulletin board. Don't worry, today I saw Cookie. She trapped me while I was getting the mail. (Thank goodness no packages for Mike today.) "So you're babysitting now? Why in the world are you doing that?" Ugh. She makes me feel so positive about my life.
Finally, Cookie has a posse. She and several other women in the building get together for dinner more often than not. Before I moved up here, Mike was invited to join the dinner parties! In fact, one lady continuously left notes on our door inviting him to dinner - just the two of them! Mike made up excuses to avoid dinner until I was physically here. One evening, after another offer had been extended, we walked down the hall for a glass of wine. No one knew I was here and I'm not sure they realized he had a girlfriend. Those cougars!
We sat down and all three ladies began asking Mike questions about his coursework. You would have thought he had discovered electricity by the way they were oohing and aahing over him. I would try to throw some comments in, or maybe a story, but I was ignored EVERY TIME! I was annoyed - I am usually a big hit at parties! Eventually, I just sat there with my arms crossed. We have not been invited back.
The only younger person I have seen in the building is a guy who seems to be about Mike's age. The only problem is that everytime I see him in the elevator, I am doing something odd. I was caught wearing pajamas with boots slipped on over the flannel bottoms so I could help Mike unload the car, and was also sighted wearing those pedicure flip flops they give you when it was about 20 degrees outside. (I was carring my shoes and socks). I am pretty sure he doesn't want to be friends with us.
So for the time being, we will stay in our little condo in the corner. It has definitely been an experience so far!
Let me introduce you to Cookie. She is a widowed grandma, who I have to equate to the nosey neighbor across the street. She actually really reminds me of the mom on "Everybody Loves Raymond." When I was in Mississippi I thought Mike was exaggerating when he talked about how much Cookie (or the Cookie Monster, as she has been dubbed) seemed to know about his life. When I moved up here, everything was verified. Mike orders a lot of books about Criminology that are delivered through UPS. Packages that people receive are left in the mail area for everyone to see. Cookie stopped me in the hall one day and said, "My! I noticed that Mike sure is getting a lot of packages. What is he ordering?" I think she thinks we are drug dealers.
Cookie also likes to inquire about my job situation, or lack thereof. Since the answer is always the same, I have started avoiding her when I see her. I run to the stairs rather than taking the elevator, or wait until I know she is gone before I leave our condo. (That's kind of pathetic now that I write it out.) Anyway, last week I posted a flyer advertising my babysitting services on the community bulletin board. Don't worry, today I saw Cookie. She trapped me while I was getting the mail. (Thank goodness no packages for Mike today.) "So you're babysitting now? Why in the world are you doing that?" Ugh. She makes me feel so positive about my life.
Finally, Cookie has a posse. She and several other women in the building get together for dinner more often than not. Before I moved up here, Mike was invited to join the dinner parties! In fact, one lady continuously left notes on our door inviting him to dinner - just the two of them! Mike made up excuses to avoid dinner until I was physically here. One evening, after another offer had been extended, we walked down the hall for a glass of wine. No one knew I was here and I'm not sure they realized he had a girlfriend. Those cougars!
We sat down and all three ladies began asking Mike questions about his coursework. You would have thought he had discovered electricity by the way they were oohing and aahing over him. I would try to throw some comments in, or maybe a story, but I was ignored EVERY TIME! I was annoyed - I am usually a big hit at parties! Eventually, I just sat there with my arms crossed. We have not been invited back.
The only younger person I have seen in the building is a guy who seems to be about Mike's age. The only problem is that everytime I see him in the elevator, I am doing something odd. I was caught wearing pajamas with boots slipped on over the flannel bottoms so I could help Mike unload the car, and was also sighted wearing those pedicure flip flops they give you when it was about 20 degrees outside. (I was carring my shoes and socks). I am pretty sure he doesn't want to be friends with us.
So for the time being, we will stay in our little condo in the corner. It has definitely been an experience so far!
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