Four Miles From Boring

A Little Early

2009-03-31T17:32:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to shout to the world: I'M GETTING MARRIED IN A WEEK!!!!! TO THE MOST WONDERFUL MAN EVER! I AM SO HAPPY!

K, time to get back to prepping..weddings are tons of work, don't you know?!

This Is Why I Never Could Support The Red Sox

2009-02-17T05:23:00.000-08:00

FALMOUTH, Mass. (AP) -- A Massachusetts man accused of hitting a New York tourist three times with an aluminum baseball bat because he thought he was a Yankees fan will not serve jail time if he stays out of trouble.
The case against 21-year-old Robert Correia was continued without a finding for two years, meaning charges will be dropped if he does not get into legal trouble in that time.
Correia was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon after hitting William Nestor of Northport, N.Y., with a bat following a July 4 Cape Cod fireworks show. The Yankees and Red Sox played that weekend.
Nestor said he had asked a group to stop taunting people with New York license plates. He was not seriously injured.
Correia claimed self defense.

Oh So Crafty!

2008-12-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

Hey kids!

Check it out! I'm slowly getting some items back up on the etsy site. Just in time for holiday giving!! More to come in the next few days..I hope!

Shop away! Send your friends! Happy Holidays!!!

Overheard In The Newsroom

2008-11-20T03:44:00.000-08:00

"...the hooker I was talking to in the Police Station was telling me about getting licensed.."

Only in Vegas, Baby!

More Good Quotes

2008-11-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

"Cats seem to go on the principle that it never does any harm to ask for what you want."

- Joseph Wood Krutch

"In spite of illness, in spite even of the archenemy sorrow, one can remain alive long past the usual date of disintegration if one is unafraid of change, insatiable in intellectual curiosity, interested in big things, and happy in small ways"

- Edith Wharton

(Cleaning and purging can dig up some treasures, don't you think?)

Conflicts With Sleep

2008-11-11T05:56:00.000-08:00

My work schedule is all over the place. Actually, I take that back. For the first time since returning to news here in Las Vegas, I'm on the most regular schedule they've given me. It's just the hours that are irregular. And that is really starting to mess with me.

First, I'm finding that I cannot process things the way I used to. Even blogging seems forced and uninspired. I'm messing up words like a dyslexic -- the other day I said *soup* when I meant *soap* (or was it the other way around?). My stories are becoming repetative. My days are melting together. I'm actually at work less, but not really doing more at home.

Second, when I need to sleep, I can't. And when I want to be up I can't keep my eyes open. I'm alternating between a mix of different sleeping pills (in small, below the daily recommendation doses) just so I don't get hooked.

Yesterday, I actually got less sleep than normal and feel better than I usually do..how does that work?

Anyway, I'm not looking for advice or sympathy here...just posting a quick little bit to explain what's been going on in the past 16 weeks (they told me 6...but who's counting?).

I got lucky once here in Vegas...and now I'm hoping to do it again and win big by scoring the perfect shift that doesn't require driving to work when I should be tucked into bed.

Something To Remember

2008-11-10T06:07:00.001-08:00

The place to improve the world is first in one's own heart and head and hands, and then work outward from there.

- Robert M. Pirsig
Zen & The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance

Wedding Update

2008-10-30T06:05:00.001-07:00

I have a dress!!!

We have a location!!!

We have rings!!!

We have a date!!!!

158 days and counting...can't come fast enough!

Time To Vote

2008-10-17T06:31:00.001-07:00

Early polls open tomorrow in Nevada...and we're off!

Today: Thumbing through my voter's pamphlet. Tomorrow: To the computer!

And by tomorrow hopefully we'll have turned a non-voter into an active citizen..it's Brian's first election!

Feeling Fall

2008-09-16T06:28:00.000-07:00

I'm not normally a person who looks forward to the transition into cooler months, but it turns out it really isn't so bad when you live in the desert southwest. By cooler here, the temperature has finally dropped below the century mark and overnights are cool enough to open the windows and let in the fresh air!

It's also a great time to start a whole bunch of new crafting projects!!! After months of hiatus, I'm finally back in the swing of things..finding inspiration in new objects and developing projects that I think have some real potential! Pictures and products to come..what a tease!

Did I mention the yummy foods? All things pumpkin are about to hit! Pumpkin lattes are already in stock at Starbucks..and the good people at Einstein's say their pumpkin bagels will be back TOMORROW!! The Cost Plus ad also has yummy treats like pumpkin cookies!! And, with a man at home that doesn't seem to like the snack..that means more for me! Oh, and Gingerbread lattes are just around the corner. Hurray!

This fall thing is much easier to handle when you don't have to dread shoveling snow...

Dear Ikea and Container Store

2008-08-29T05:44:00.000-07:00

Please open up shops in Las Vegas.

I'm tired of having to plan vacations to spend money at your fine establishments.

Many thanks!

Things I'm Struggling With When Planning My Wedding

2008-08-28T05:53:00.001-07:00

* Just where the heck to have it!
* Finding the right date that does not interfere with delayed February sweeps, regularly scheduled sweeps, rainy seasons, and on-and-off seasons
* When and where to get a dress
* What kind of dress to get (I want them all!)
* Finding myself awake during regular business hours (what do you mean dress shops aren't open at 4am on a Sunday?)

Things that were not a struggle:
* Getting engaged (I'm the girl! That's easy!)
* Finding the right man
* Knowing that I'm not rushing this
* Planning the rest of my life with my man

I guess I win!

A New Project

2008-08-07T05:53:00.000-07:00

..because really, it's not like I don't already have enough on my plate!

Brian and I are starting something special. It's our new blog! Wanna check it? Head here.

You've heard the ad..what happens in Las Vegas, stays in Las Vegas. We want to prove that wrong. We're looking for the stuff of legends here, people! But, we need your help!!!

If you've got a tale to tell, leave it here. If you know someone with an amazing story, send them our way!

Also, help spread the word by becoming our friend on myspace.

Thanks for your help!

More wedding life updates to come!

Short And Sweet

2008-06-26T22:35:00.000-07:00

Big news...I mean really big!

I'M GETTING MARRIED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, sorry for posting and not calling you to tell you, I'm getting there...I promise!

This past weekend, in the shadow of the Golden Gate bridge in a beautiful field of grass, Brian asked me to marry him. I said yes. (of course!) We haven't touched the ground since.

I am so lucky to have such an amazing partner in my life. There are too many and not enough words to express my joy. I love him. He loves me. We are so happy our cheeks hurt from smiling!

Spring...I may be a spring bride... lalalalala....

Just Another Reason Why Living In Nevada Rules

2008-06-17T12:05:00.000-07:00

Here's just one story in my newscast tonight:

PUMPED UP PRICES HAVE PLENTY OF BUSINESSES OFFERING GAS CARDS TO GET YOU IN THE DOOR...AND THOSE INVOLVED THE WORLD'S OLDEST PROFESSION IS TRYING TO CASH IN ON THE TREND.
JUST TAKE A DRIVE UP TO THE SHADY LADY UP U-S 95.
IF YOU SPEND 300 DOLLARS ON SERVICES THERE..YOU'LL GET A 50 DOLLAR GAS CARD.
SPEND 500 BUCKS AND YOU'LL LEAVE WITH 100 DOLLARS TO FILL UP YOUR GAS TANK.
THE PROMOTION STARTS JULY FIRST.

Festiv-al In Full Swing!

2008-06-06T16:20:00.000-07:00

Surprise! My desk looked like Rainbow Brite threw up on it! One of the benefits of working with the love of your life, I suppose...

I've been spoiled all week! Still 2 days until the big day!!!

Best Year Ever.

(Yah, I'm braggin!)

Trying New Things

2008-06-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

The other night it was cactus for dinner (amazing!)..today, it's a new yoga class for the first time!

I like doing things that seem scary.

Now, if only I could find a decent metalsmithing class in the area!

Oh, and I'm thinking about becoming a pickler. Or a canner. I'm still trying to figure out which, but I dream of selling my goods at a little bed and breakfast on the Southern California coast.

On Blogging

2008-06-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

Blame it on Sarah Vowell, but I've been thinking a lot about this blog...and blogging in general lately. I know that in the past few months my posts here have been sporadic and bare...at best. I've been busy! Busy exploring, busy re-evaluating, busy catching up on sleep when I'm not on the go. But my latest read has me realizing neglecting this is leaving gaps in my history.

When looking back on history there are plenty of different ways to glean information. The one tool that seems to be the most effective for actually gaining any sort of personal perspective (at least in my latest read) was from the diaries and journals left behind. Those personal writings help set tone and convey emotion that you just can't get from a public document. I find that it's those little tidbits that make this read so interesting.

While I am far from a past president or even some sort of historical figure, my blog is my story. Neglecting it means I'm not sharing..and I'm really trying to get better at that. So it's time to tell more stories and continue recording my history.

525,600 Minutes

2008-05-26T21:07:00.000-07:00

How do you measure a year that's flown by?!

I'm quickly approaching the milestone birthday. Which of course means plenty of time to think about where I've been and where I'm going. This year has been one of the most eventful ones ever!

Probably why there's been a shortage of posts recently, huh?

When I think about where I was a year ago, and where I am now, I could never have guessed I would be writing my 2-weeks-before-30 post in a bed of a man who was a total stranger 365 days ago (366 if you count the leap year!). I'm now back in TV. I live 3,000 miles from where I lived a year ago. I have a nicer tan. My hair is much longer. I kept the weight off (can't say that if I keep having Rio Buffet nights like tonight). I have new friends. I like where I'm going.

And so, 2 weeks early, I set my goals for the next decade:

- Blog more
- Workout more
- Stress less
- Travel
- Keep in better touch with you
- Work on the projects that are important to me
- Eat more fruits and veggies (is that possible?!)
- Make more things
- Stress less
- Read
- Write
- Think
- Enjoy it all!

Bring on 30!

Busy Bee

2008-03-17T19:35:00.000-07:00

Tired of staring at Keith Olbermann's mug everytime you hit up my blog for an update?

Me too.

So, here's a quick run-through of what's been going on..

I just got back from a glorious weekend on the California coast. A wedding brought us there..the weather and the wine made us stay! Thanks to Allegiant Air, we'll be back!

Surprise weekend in Laughlin! Ok, so it's far from the glitz and glamour of The Strip, but it has its own charm. And real running water.

Alien Country! A daytrip to the middle of nowhere landed us at one of the most deserted places I've ever been. And I've driven cross country. Twice.

Up next? Weekend visitors galore and a trip to Oregon to show off my new arm candy! Pictures? Yah, they're coming, lay off already!

What you been doin? Keep me posted!

Poetry In Motion

2008-02-15T09:53:00.000-08:00

A rant put together so well I had to save it, and share it! Riveting..

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ps. i heart keith olbermann

About A Boy

2008-02-11T15:19:00.000-08:00

Very rarely do I put something so personal out into the blogosphere, but I've come to realize new me = new rules. Plus, in this year of New Me I feel that it's best to keep with the New Year's Resolutions which include no longer hiding.

I am in love. I am in love with the most wonderful man. I am in love like they are in the movies. I am a changed person because of love. Exclamation point.

Love found me at work, and while many people may furrow the brow with that concerned "you-shouldn't-dip-your-pen-in-the-company-ink" look, I'll have you know that recent studies (done by "experts") find that a work-place romance is good! So, until the experts chance their minds, or until a glass of red wine or a piece of antioxident-laden chocolate is no longer good for me, I'm going with those findings.

And the most wonderful part of my new love, and therefore new life, is that it is easy. My new life is filled with passion that had been lacking. It's filled with laughter that never seems to end. It's filled with surprises and joy and inspiring conversations about everything that could last for days.

And while any great love is filled with complexities and layers, these things all fall into place so simply. Being where I am now is as simple as breathing. Nothing is forced and nothing is held back. It happens organically and completely and without effort.

The only thing we fought was the process of falling in love itself.

My Brian loves me...for me. And I love him for the man who he is...and for the man he is working to be. He is my reminder that it is ok to take risks and do things that scare us. He reminds me that the world is big, and that there are countless adventures to take. He is brilliant and funny and honest and caring and loving and passionate and truly good. He inspires, and helps conspire, and is a true and equal partner to me.

So, in true television fashion, I leave you with a tease. Brian and I have some big plans. We have big plans for our relationship. We have big plans for our lives. And we have big plans to continue loving each other without holding anything back. Stay with us.

Mass Exodus

2008-02-09T18:45:00.000-08:00

As of just a few hours ago, I surrendered my Massachusetts driver's license to the good people at the Nevada DMV (even though I continue fighting the urge to call it RMV. Take the girl out of Boston, ey? ha!).

I am officially a resident of the Silver State. As is my car. Not the Beetle I've dreamed of for so long, but some scars stay with us.

I'm still getting used to the idea that I FINALLY live in a warm weather climate. Today was flip-flop weather....in early February!!! The temperature change was so weird for this northern girl, I had a hard time remembering the date. It's a problem I'm sorta digging.

I've had quite a bit of time to myself in the past few days. That means plenty of time to catch up on the neglected and watch a bunch of girl movies. It's like visiting old friends. Last night, Bridget Jones. Tonight, it's the ensemble from Love Actually. And doesn't it start off quite nicely, with that cad Hugh Grant's voice over at the security gate?

***************************************

"Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world,
I think about the arrivals gate at Heathrow airport.
General opinion makes out that we live in a world of hatred and greed
I don't see that.
Seems to me that love is everywhere.
Often it's not particularly dignified or newsworthy but it's always there.
Fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, husbands and wives,
boyfriends, girlfriends, old friends.
When the planes hit the Twin Towers,
none of the phone calls from people on board were messages of hate or revenge,
hey were all messages of love.
lf you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around."

***************************************

Does it get any better? Yah. Try the final scene. I feel more like me already.

Emancipation Proclamation

2008-02-01T18:28:00.000-08:00

Deep breath. Let it out. Here we go.

It's the post I've been delaying and now, I feel the time has come. Some things have been happening in my life and it's time to share.

My relationship with Nick is over. Officially, it ended a couple months back. Unofficially, it's been over for years.

There is no need to go into detail here as to what happened. Those close to me already know. Those on the other side know their version. And somewhere in between is likely the truth...if there was any truth there to begin with.

I have no regret when I look back on the past five and a half (!) years. This journey taught me so much. I learned new things about myself. I re-learned things I knew and pushed out of my life.

And, I found complete happiness and joy once again. In myself. I will never again allow another person be the ruler of my happiness. I remember that just because I won't let others be the ones who control my happiness, that doesn't mean they cannot be the source of it.

It's funny, during all of this, "my song" was Dave Matthews Bands "Grey Street". Now, I'm living in technicolor.

I have found a new love.

And he is everything I needed. And wanted. And didn't know I couldn't live without. And he let's me be just me.

And now, finally, I am free.

Settling Down

2008-01-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

My wild ride is starting to settle down...I'm planning on catching up on all the things I've been slacking on..if that means you, my apologies.

Today, I'm ready to tackle the to-do list and get some stuff DONE!!!

Maybe it's the rain (RAIN!!!), but I'm feeling very much so like myself again. It's about time.

More details to come soon...stay tuned!!!

Ch-ch-changes

2007-12-31T22:05:00.000-08:00

Hi friends, it's been awhile.

Tonight, it's New Year's Eve. I'm a million miles from where I was 365 days ago. A lot has changed.

A year ago, I never thought I'd work in TV again.

Now, I have my own show.

A year ago, I was in a long-term relationship.

Now, I've ended it and developed something entirely new and more special than anything I could ever imagine.

A year ago, I was cold.

Now, I'm still cold. But not as much.

A year ago, I was lost.

Now, I feel found.

A year ago, I was drinking wine.

Now, I'm enjoying some Pimp N Ho!

A year ago, I had no idea I'd end up here.

Now, I can't imagine myself anyplace else.

What a difference a year makes.

More details to come in the upcoming year, but for tonight, I wish you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! See y'all in 008!

Setting Deadlines

2007-12-06T20:08:00.001-08:00

Tonight, I am frustrated.

I'm so frustrated I'm even struggling to start this blog entry.

Ugh.

Ok, I deal with deadlines all day, right? It's not like I can leave my work for the next day (black holes don't really go over well)! But for some reason when it comes to ME, I feel like I cannot get my shit together.

A pretty big milestone is sneaking up on me in the next few months. There are plenty of things I thought I would have already done by now. I'm not even close.

Why is it easy to continue working at a place with a daily deadline yet have no problems blowing past my self-imposed due dates?

Are my goals too lofty? Is my drive zapped? Am I really just a big slacker trapped behind a go-getter facade?

Does any of this matter?

Is my worst prediction for 30 about to come true?

Do I work too hard? Am I not working hard enough?

How am I going to get everything I want to do done?!?!?!

Or, is this what it's all about? Having more goals than time vs. having more time than goals? Which is better?

More questions than answers tonight, my friends. Stay tuned.

Another Reason Why..It's Great To Be Here!

2007-12-03T08:53:00.000-08:00

Let's go back in time, say, to May:

Me, calling my doctor in Boston: Hi, I'd like to make an appt. for a checkup. Sometime in the next two months?

Receptionist: I'm sorry, the next available appt. isn't until the last week of August. That's in four months. Will that work for you?

Me: WTF?!?!?

***********************************
Now, to about 20 minutes ago:

Me, calling my new Las Vegas doctor: Hi! I need an appointment..you don't happen to have anything, say, next week?

Receptionist: Actually, if you're not busy later today we can see you at 1:45.

Me, quothe, E: Aces!

**********************************
That gives me less than 5 hours to dread said appt! Much better than four months. If only I could breathe through my nose I'd double-down on a dentist appointment.. This is better than gambling! (ok, that's a lie, but at least if I lose the doctor game I can still make rent!)

Sleeping Past Seven

2007-12-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

Anyone who's known me for about a minute knows I'm a huge fan of sleep. But lately, especially on the weekends, I can't seem to sleep past 7. So that means you, dear reader, get plenty of my ramblings now when I should be tucked in nicely warm and cozy. Even if I'm up past my bedtime, it doesn't work. Yesterday, I even tried drinking no caffeine. To no avail.

Is this what it's like to get older?

Maybe sleep is mad at me..I have been messing with the time of our evening rendezvous, but it's not you! It's me! Oh, sleep, i'm so sorry for treating you like a second class citizen! You know I love you! You know I would never leave you! Come on, baby, just come to bed with me!!

Grossest Postest

2007-12-01T07:23:00.000-08:00

If I could sell all the snot I'm producing I would be a millionaire.

Maybe instead I will rely on my constantly budding crafting career. Hurray for free tickets to the Gem show!

Oh, and hurray for buckets of rain falling from the sky. It makes my yard green and makes me feel at home.

Happy Days Are Hear Again!

2007-11-29T19:56:00.000-08:00

*Schedule returning to "normal:
*Laptop, bed, Project Runway on TV
*New ReadyMade! Full of crafting inspiration! Hurray!
*New art for my home/work from soon-to-be famous artist Rylee! (no, I'm not selling these, Lee!)
*Good food in my belly
*Surprise phonecall at work from an old friend!
*Good friends all around me!
*Good times up ahead!

What's In A Name?

2007-11-27T08:29:00.000-08:00

Random thoughts from my drive into work:

If my memory of mythology serves, didn't the Phoenix rise from the ashes? So, is it really a good idea to call your business Phoenix Pest Service? Wouldn't that imply that the bugs somehow survive?

Just wondering.

Weather Wimp

2007-11-26T16:44:00.000-08:00

It's in the mid-60s outside. I am wearing a sweater.

Call me a local!

Giving Thanks

2007-11-21T19:53:00.000-08:00

It's a generic post, I know, but as I drove home from work tonight I thought about all the things I am thankful for:

* Driving. And knowing that all I have to do to change my direction is turn on my blinker, check my blind spot, and go.

* Family. Near and Far. Blood-related or formed on its own. Having a support system and knowing who they are.

* Music. And for how it can change your mood, take you back in time and make everything all right.

* Cowboy Boots. They rule. Enough said.

* Las Vegas. For not having to turn on the heat yet. For roads that make sense. For open doors and friendly people. For being everything I hoped it would be and more.

* Good coffee, good wine, good cheese, good bread and good fruit. I try to get as many everyday. The perfect day includes them all.

* Sunshine. Because you can never get enough vitamin D.

* Television. It inspires, pays the bills, and keeps me entertained. It's ok to love TV.

* The West Coast. And knowing where home is.

* Kitties. And puppies. And anything soft, really. Especially pillows.

* Travel. And knowing that there are still so many more adventures to take.

* The future. And never knowing just what is next. But knowing that I'm ready.

Post #200

2007-10-29T20:23:00.000-07:00

So, according to Blogger, this is the big 200 post! Hurray! And thanks to YOU for sticking with this for so long! Your voyeuristic ways are really what makes all this possible! :)

And so, a few notes of late to kick off the next 200 posts:

*I was picked as a gather blogger! Thank you for voting, and if you haven't joined, click on the banner on my blog and be my friend!

*Vegas freaking rules. It's almost November and I still don't wear socks! Oh, and it's in the 80s all week. Seriously, why would anyone live above the 45th parellel? Or anywhere near it? Brr.

*My new job also rules. My co-workers rock. I'm having a blast. At work. Really. (Well, it's as good as it can be..nothing will ever beat the good ole days of 56!)

*The Ducks are rocking the Pac-10 and the nation! They even got 1 first place vote this week! Now, if we can just get ASU and BC to lose a game or two...

**************************

So, all in all, as those shirts and hats seem to proclaim -- life is good!

The Morning Commute

2007-10-24T17:05:00.000-07:00

* Get on I-15 at the Silverton
* Admire the Jim Beam ad on The Rio
* Check the reader board at Mandalay and see who's coming to town
* Watch the color pattern on the top of The Palms
* Note the progress of City Center
* Confirm the time at Bellagio
* Get off the 15 at Caesars
* Drive past the strip club
* Turn left into the driveway

There!

Texas Baby

2007-10-20T17:12:00.000-07:00

First Words:

Texas

Pretzel

Beer

Walmart

Another Day, Another Danish

2007-10-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

Why does morning news and donuts go so well together? And why can I never say no??

And some big fat onions to Dunkin Donuts...I thought I left you behind on the East Coast! Stop stalking me!!!

I Want One NOW!

2007-10-16T17:30:00.001-07:00

Veruca Salt and I would like one of these, please:

Too cute!!

More Help!

2007-09-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

Here's the second article for the contest!

Enjoy! Help me out! Thanks!!

Oh, and mad props to JLE for already voting! You rule!!

I Get By With A Little Help From My Friends

2007-09-25T20:37:00.000-07:00

Wanna do me a solid? It's easy. I promise it won't hurt.

So, I'm trying to become a political blogger for Gather.com (some say it's the MySpace for grown-ups). I have an article and I need more *10* ratings. Want to help? It's so easy (not as easy as falling in love, but easy nonetheless). Here's what you do!

1. Head to Gather by clicking on this link and sign up! You will then also be my friend!

(added bonus: Get 5 of your friends to sign up and you get a 20 dollar giftcard to Borders! Free money! Hurray!)

2. Then, read my article and give it a *10*

3. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done!

Thanks! Have a fabulous day!

Back In The Saddle!

2007-09-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

TV, just try and keep me away! I dare you! I double dog dare you!

Nice try, but I win!

I'll see you at Midday!

This And That

2007-09-04T14:05:00.000-07:00

Channel 32? Channel 33?

32? 33?

Is "this" better than "that"? "That" or "this"?

How about neither?

Tennis it is!

It's All Good

2007-08-29T16:20:00.000-07:00

At least, so sayeth the Tarot.

Being unemployed leaved plenty of time for new hobbies!!

In other news....

check out my Etsy store for some new creations! Don't forget to tell your friends!!!

Leapin' Lizard!

2007-08-24T15:50:00.000-07:00

Check out my new friend I've spotted scampering through my backyard!

Living Las Vegas

2007-08-23T10:25:00.000-07:00

You'd think being unemployed would give me plenty of time for things like blogging and the such..but somehow days turned to weeks and it's been nearly a month since my last post. But I'm back.

Two months in Nevada and it feels like I've been here forever. It's a good thing. The weather is awesome (60 days, barely a day below 100 degrees -- it's a dry heat!), the people are great, and the food is so much better than anything east. And living here is so much different from just coming for a vacation on the strip.

The people everywhere are so friendly..almost to a fault. There have been several times I've been stuck at a grocery store checkout with clerks who just won't stop chatting! But after years of isolation and apathetic customer service, I eat this up!

The city is set up like a big grid, which makes sense to me. We had no internet for a week when we first moved out here and had no problems getting around. After 4 years in Boston, I still felt lost without good google map directions.

The casinos are fun, and there are so many awesome restaurants in the ones off the strip. And joining all those clubs means plenty of coupons for discounted meals! (2 buffets for 5 bucks, come on!!!)

And a house twice as big as my last place for just a little more than half what I paid back east..and I don't have to shovel?!?!? This is heaven!!

Oh, and did I mention a sky so big with an awesome new sunset every night? Palm trees in my neighbor's backyard, with shade for me to sit?!? And awesome backyard set up for hours of relaxing?!?!?? Sun tea kissed by the hot, desert sun?!?!?!?!!!

Ah, home!

Nonsense For A Nonsensical World

2007-07-28T17:55:00.000-07:00

There's a lot of crap out there on the internets, right? But take a look at the efforts of this poor, misguided soul living in SoCal:

http://biologistshelpingbookstores.blogspot.com/

Basically this person is visiting bookstores to "correct" things by reshelving science books into the areas said person deems appropriate.

What arrogance!

I am a former bookstore employee. I live with a former bookstore employee. Many of you who read this are current and former bookstore employees. And for those in the know, you know exactly just how well a campaign like this works.

You don't need me to tell you how misguided these efforts are..how by reorganizing the store only hurts booksellers..people who are barely making a few dollars over minimum wage (if they're lucky), and ends up hurting the very thing they claim to hold so dear. Let's just say someone actually comes into the store looking for one of these titles. You know, in the name of knowledge and the desire to educate his or herself. The customer asks for help. The bookstore employee tries to find the book, yet can't, because SOME DOUCHE DECIDED TO HIDE THE BOOK IN THE STACKS. So, the person leaves without their book, the employee has to do more work to clean up your mess, and you've lost another advocate in the ever-growing job for scientists to gain more funding..because you just never know who it was who was looking for that book and just how important of a read it may have been to them or even you.

And the worst part is that this person writes with what appears to be such condescending tone towards the bookseller. As if the order and shelf placement is the booksellers fault. As if the bookseller is stupid.

Note to re-organizing jerks: Booksellers are not stupid. Many booksellers are smarter than you would ever know, and likely hold degrees more advanced than yours. And you would know that if you would drop your passive-agressive behavior and actually talk to them. Get them involved in a healthy debate..many love the intellectual intercourse. Or, are you just too scared some bookseller may actually drop you down a notch and make you realize that there are smart people in places outside your ivory tower of scientific self-righteousness who may force you to think or even see another point of view?

I thought scientists asked questions. I thought scientists searched for truth. This "scientist" seems to only be trying to prevent others from finding knowledge.

Hearts To A Southwest Sunset!

2007-07-28T16:34:00.000-07:00

You Know You Live In Vegas When...

2007-07-25T17:59:00.001-07:00

...you run into an Elvis impersonator during a quick trip for a bite to eat.

Man, I love this town.

2007-07-10T19:40:00.000-07:00

Oh..and 2 more things.

WTF is up with Blogger no longer allowing me to write a title to my post? Are me and Elena the only ones to notice this??

After an unemployed couch-fest of watching VH1...I wonder...does anyone out there know ANYONE who actually beat Legend of Zelda?

Just wondering!

2007-07-10T18:50:00.000-07:00

I am not a camel.

I cannot survive days in the desert without water. Hell, I can barely survive a simple trip to the grocery store without my water bottle. But overall, things in Vegas -- as the sign says -- are fabulous.

The city is based on a grid, not old cow paths weaving without rhyme or reason through the city. That is good.

The grocery stores are huge and clean, with wide aisles and video poker. Which is also good. And funny. And a little sad. But way more funny than sad.

The stores are all ones I know..and more than anything else, the people are so nice. Strangers make casual conversation in line, in the garden department, in parking lots and strip malls. Neighbors wave. Everyone seems happy.

And I like that. A lot.

Guess Who's Back?!

2007-07-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

After 2700 miles and a week pining for the internet, everything is finally starting to settle. Our house now looks more like a messy lived-in home, and no longer has that messy we-just-moved-in look. Oh..and IT'S VEGAS!!!!

Trip highlights include:
3 new states visited
1 scary night in rural Utah survived
4 long days of driving
0 stops at Denny's (despite our best efforts)

Vegas highlights include:
1 house even better than imagined
2 trips to the strip
1 of those trips just to see a movie!
2 visits to In-N-Out Burger
2 runs through the Sweet Tomatoes line
An embarrassing number of trips to Walmart
114 degrees survived (of course we move during a heat wave!)

More deets to come! But, we made it!! Bring on the week of fun!

Thank You And Goodnight!

2007-06-27T07:05:00.001-07:00

Just a few hours left...just a quick break from the packing and the moving to say see ya!!

Thank you to those of you who organized/attended the good-byes. It's been a struggle out here..to say the least..and you are the people who made our time here a whole lot of fun!

We'll have space to spare out west..so please, please, please never hesitate to drop in for a hello and some fun!

...and we're off! See you in Sin City!!!

Quick Break

2007-06-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

How did I acquire so much crap?!?!?

Could it be? Just 2 full days left on the East Coast??

Viva..viva!!!

God Bless America

2007-06-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

Oh, and take that money you spent on the ribbon and send some sort of care pack, right?

Grey, Gray, go away

2007-06-13T12:26:00.001-07:00

What is it about gross weather that makes me want to eat?

I do not need you snack 'ems!!!

Idiot

2007-06-11T12:26:00.000-07:00

Why won't anyone buy my autographed Johnny Damon book? Don't you know I will soon be unemployed?

Come to my yardsale this weekend and get lots of goodies! Pre-sale Friday for those in the know!!

Bad Weekend

2007-06-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

You know it isn't good when all your Paris Hilton scoop is coming from your boyfriend.

Oi. Vey.

Soundtrack My Life

2007-06-06T10:35:00.000-07:00

Faith Hill - Let's Go To Vegas
Dixie Chicks - Wide Open Spaces
Daughtry - Home
Keith Urban - Better Life
Canibus - Shove This Jay-Oh-Bee (from the Office Space soundtrack, of course!)
LeAnn Rimes - One Way Ticket - Because I Can
Peter Garbriel - Solsbury Hill
Elvis - Viva Las Vegas!

Movin' On Up!!

2007-06-05T13:29:00.000-07:00

What's the best part of moving out of Boston??

The peeps are knocking down my door to come visit!!! Yah, people! I can't wait to see everyone again!!!!

Big Announcement!

2007-06-01T09:07:00.000-07:00

It's official..I've given my notice at work..

I'm moving out of Massachusetts!!!!!!

Need Some Stuff?

2007-05-31T10:52:00.000-07:00

Check out my sales..going on NOW!

Search for alpal719 here!

And look at these gems on craigslist!

You know you want it.

More stuff to come, I am sure!

Patience

2007-05-31T08:17:00.000-07:00

I lack it.

A watched inbox never fills.

All good things come to those who wait.

I'm done playing the waiting game.

Accept me! Buy my stuff! Write back, craiglist man!

Just breathe.

One Step Closer

2007-05-29T10:05:00.003-07:00

Know where my favorite place on Earth is??

I'm THIS close to living 6 miles from it.

6 FREAKIN' MILES!!!!!!!

That works.

Live Strong

2007-05-18T09:22:00.000-07:00

I will not eat pizza and donuts.

Just because everyone else is doing it does not make it right.

Stay strong. It's just not worth it.

Possible Job? I Think So!

2007-05-17T18:22:00.000-07:00

Wanted: Strong person to combat evil

Date: 2007-05-17, 8:47AM PDT

I'm currently seeking a handful of people interested in the extermination and disposal of rampant, brain-eating zombies. You must be well-versed and knowledgeable in the field of zombie killing. This is a tough position so be prepared for a challenging endeavor. If you can't handle it, please do not reply. Compensation starts at 100k per year and increases by 20k per 25 zombies destroyed. I look forward to hearing from you.

Location: Las Vegas
Compensation: See above
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
Please, no phone calls about this job!
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests

See for yourself!

Lovin' That New Car Smell!

2007-05-17T13:05:00.000-07:00

Higher Education: It's What You Make Of It!

2007-04-25T10:57:00.000-07:00

16 Miles Saved Is 16 Miles Earned

2007-04-25T06:50:00.000-07:00

2 days...2 bike rides under my belt!

Just 119 more days of this and I will have saved enough gas to pay for my bike.

Athlete Of The Year

2007-04-24T06:20:00.000-07:00

Ok..not quite. But I'm getting there.

After a weekend of buying expensive and not so expensive sporting goods, I rode my brand new bike to work this morning! (Yes, Mom, I wore my helmet!) My ride was awesome and the people on the path were much more friendly than those you encounter behind the wheel.

I think I may be addicted.

Vandals Attack!

2007-04-20T14:13:00.000-07:00

********************(detritus left at Andalusian Way)******************

I Blame Myself

2007-04-18T06:32:00.000-07:00

In 1991, the NBA selected ten players to represent the USA men's
Olympic basketball team. The roster read like a who's who of basketball
at the time: Jordan, Magic, Bird and Barkley. Noticeably absent: Clyde Drexler. Impossible! How could Portland MVP and all-around nice guy not get a chance to make history and bring home the gold?

And so I started my campaign to undo this wrong.

Letters to NBA Commissioner
David Stern and a signed petition from the greater Gordon Russell
Middle School community helps correct the situation and Clyde got his
gold medal.

Fast forward 16 years..when I abandoned Clyde in his time of need.

Last night, the love of my adolescent
life did not make the cut on "Dancing with the Stars." It's not that I
didn't cheer..or laugh and smile at your stiff moves on the dance floor. But I didn't vote. I didn't write. I did nothing but become just a spectator. And for this, I am sorry.

But at least he beat out Leeza Gibbons.

The Media

2007-04-17T10:17:00.000-07:00

You need it.
You want it.
So why criticize it with generalizations you don't understand?

How would you feel if someone made blanket statements about your life?

Just think before you speak.

I Don't Care What You Think..

2007-04-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

..but Perez Hilton totally makes my day!

Don't work an office desk job without him!

Broken Record

2007-04-10T07:29:00.000-07:00

I know this is getting redundant, but there isn't a single day on Accuweather's 15-day trend that puts the high temperature in the 60s!

15 days from now puts us only 1 week shy of May.

Me = cranky.

Right Name, Wrong Coast

2007-04-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

After nearly 4 years living in New England, I finally made a trip home. Or at least it sounds like home..and Portland, Maine even has several similarities to its sister city Out West. Here are just a few:

*Subarus! Everywhere the Subaru!
*Key Bank. I forgot all about Key Bank until spotting one just a short jaunt from our hotel.
*Plenty of Mexican Restuarants
*Peace Protests
*Yummy organic food restaurants
*Starbucks on several street corners
*Quirky shops filled with quirky shop-keepers
*Friendly people
*Hills!
*Channel 8 News: "Where the NEWS comes first."
*Unlocked bikes
*Roads paved and painted to fit the cars that drive on them

Basically, Portland East has a lot of the quirks of Portland West..and I loved it. Could I live there? Nope. Too cold! But, it's nice to see parts of New England with charm and class and affordable housing.

Hating New England

2007-04-04T12:41:00.000-07:00

Wanna know why it's so easy sometimes? It's snowing. In April.

Uncool.

Challenging Myself

2007-04-03T06:58:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love Spring? It's the time of year to start fresh and clean and baby-fresh new again!

And so, I follow suit with the Self Challenge. It's Self Magazine's way of helping to shake out the winter cobwebs and motivate this lazy Northerner into the outside exercise Southerners can enjoy year long! And so, my blog has suffered, being that this project does take quite a bit of time! Thankfully, it's working (I think)!

If you need a kick in the butt to get out there, I highly recommend it. If you'd like to be my buddy online, we can arrange that, too! Although, I have 2 unsuccessful attempts at adding buddies under my belt. I'm sure you and me will work it out just fine.

*********************
So, to help facilitate my Self Challenge, I spent Saturday on the Great Shoe Search. Sadly, I live 3,000 miles from my normal workout shoe haunt (ample props to Brent here for past shoe hook-ups!), leaving my search a bit haphazard.

First stop: New Balance Outlet. What a bust. All the shoes look granny-white and gross. I hate this store. Nick walks away with a winner.

Frustrated, lost and unmotivated, we decide to use the nice weather to drive to our Millbury haunt. We park by EMS. We go inside to look for bike breaks. We stumble upon the BEST shoes in the world!

Secretly tucked in the back clearance are, not one, but 2 pairs of super-cute workout shoes. Both pairs miraculously come in my oh-so common size! I slip it on..and it's like walking on angel wings..could these shoes BE any more comfy? Answer: NO! I'm in love.

Regular price: $100. Sale price: $60. Secret surprise price at register: $41!!

And so, my friends, the moral of the story is: Trips to unexpected places can reap amazing rewards

-and-

Always let your boyfriend drag you into outdoor stores..even if they are EMS and not far-superior REI or Whole Earth Provision.

Big Mistake

2007-03-23T08:48:00.000-07:00

Jeans and cowboy boots..what was I thinking?!?!

It's so a flip-flop and short pants sort of a day!

Come on, Spring! Do it to it!

*****

Oh, and don't forget tonight -- GO DUCKS!

Deep Dark Confession

2007-03-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

The new TMNT movie sparked something inside that I forgot about long ago...

April O'Neill is the reason I wanted to go into television journalism.

Turtle Power!

SUCKS!!!!!!!!!

2007-03-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

Oregon plays today at 5:05 EDT, but I won't get to see the game! Why? LOCAL FREAKIN' NEWS!!!

It's the first time ever I HATE HATE HATE local news!!!!!!

GO DUCKS!!!!

Another Reason It's Good To Be A Duck

2007-03-15T12:06:00.001-07:00

AP - Incoming Oregon athletic director Pat Kilkenny is making friends with students in a hurry.

Oregon put 55 NCAA Tournament first-round tickets -- 10 percent of the Ducks' allotment of 550 -- on sale to university students Tuesday morning. A line of students camped overnight in hopes of securing one.

Kilkenny had noticed the line forming Monday night. So early Tuesday morning, he stopped by the group bearing coffee and pastries, and he paid for their tickets, which cost $56 each, out of his own pocket.

He also arranged to have a bus take the students to Spokane, Wash., where the third-seeded Ducks play 14th-seeded Miami, Ohio, on Friday. The school estimated the bus trip would cost $3,000 to $3,500, bringing Kilkenny's total cost to $6,000 to $6,500.

"As a former University of Oregon student, I can relate to the passion that they have exhibited for their school's basketball team and deem them to be an important ingredient in its success," Kilkenny said. "The excitement generated by our tournament appearance is shared by everyone, and I felt that students should be given the opportunity to witness it first hand."

Kilkenny takes over as AD on April 1.

In addition, Kilkenny said he was attempting to secure tickets for two more students who also spent the night in line but did not get tickets.

Should the Ducks advance to Sunday's second round, Kilkenny said he also would pay for those tickets, which would come to an additional $3,080.

GO DUCKS!!!

Thanks, Uncle Starbucks!

2007-03-15T07:35:00.000-07:00

Free House coffee in my belly makes me happy!!

(Free coffee today from 10-12noon! Go! Go now!)

SPRING!!!

2007-03-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

Oh, there ain't no shoes on me...
There ain't no shoes on me...
There may be shoes..
On some of you fools..
But there ain't no shoes on me!!

I love sandal weather!!!

Bring it on, Spring! BRING IT!!!!

So Hot!

2007-03-13T07:18:00.000-07:00

Because it's an injustice not to share this with the world...

I am a member of the inner-office email listserv for the Paris Hilton Quote of the Day. These gems of wisdom come straight from Paris' own personal diary and shared with a select group of people by one of my co-workers. And now, I share these with you! Enjoy!

"Telling the truth is a good idea. Telling people what they want to hear is a better one."

"God's greatest invention: push-up bras!"

"If you can't wear heels, wear a mini. Otherwise, your legs will look like little stumps. That is so not hot."

"Girls with big feet have huge imaginations. And bank accounts."

"More clothes are better than less clothes. A girl needs a lot of options or she'll be in a bad mood."

" If people dress just like you, take it as a compliment. Everyone will know you did it first. If they don't, remind them."

"Look in the mirror once a day and say, 'I'm an heiress! And I'm worth a bundle!'"

Texas Vacation...By The Numbers

2007-03-12T07:46:00.000-07:00

7: Glorious days in warm Spring weather
2: Reality television landmarks visited
0: Potholes or ice patches I had to dodge
5: Days I did not wear socks
1: Racist remark made by Barnes and Noble worker about "those Orientals"
2: New Starbucks mugs to add to my collection
1: New cute cowboy hat
78: Hottest daily high temperature
3: Major Texas cities visited
4: Delicious Mexican food meals devoured
2: Traffic jams endured
1: Dead bodies spotted
36: Television channels surfed at 30,000 feet
6: Piles of baby puke spotted
0: Number of diapers changed
1000: Times more fun than you probably had last week!

Wide Open Spaces

2007-03-02T16:45:00.000-08:00

Feeling claustrophobic....

Time to head to a place out West!

What it holds for her, she hasn't yet guessed...

Sure Sign You've Grown Up:

2007-02-28T07:06:00.000-08:00

The continuing stock market fiasco actually give you heart palpitations.

Why, oh why, didn't I sell my Trib stock last week???

How, oh how, can my former company still be giving me The Big Screw?

And here's the kicker: The New York Stock Exchange site won't give me updated numbers!!! I can only presume other agitated, slightly more affected investors are also doing the moment-by-moment refresh on their browsers.

I am sooooo selling if this stock ever gets back up to 31! No heart attacks for me!

Office Space, Part 2

2007-02-27T13:21:00.000-08:00

The Mad Farter now sits on the other side of the office..hurray!

My sympathies to his new office mates. I'm just glad I can breathe easier again.

Counting Down

2007-02-26T08:09:00.001-08:00

It's snowing outside..

Soon I will be wearing shorts..

Vacation break can't come soon enough!

Why Celebrities Are Awesome

2007-02-21T13:26:00.001-08:00

From the good folks at TMZ:

Daryl Hannah is at it again. The actress/activist was spotted running through the streets of Hollywood yesterday, waving a homemade white flag made of torn white sheets and a bamboo pole. Why?

There's no apparent reason for Daryl's banner performance, except, perhaps, that it was Tuesday.

Authorities were not notified.

Ah..Life

2007-02-19T08:01:00.000-08:00

Office Space

2007-02-15T07:17:00.000-08:00

There's a cloud hanging over my desk at my new office.

A blue cloud.

From the I-can't-make-this-stuff-up-even-if-I-tried files: There is a person who sits near my desk who farts. All the time. Gross, stinky, lingering farts. Farts so bad they peel paint off walls.

And the crime of it all? The culprit will drop his bomb and leave the room!

It's been happening for the past week now, almost always after lunch. The afternoon lull compounded with this disgusting addition makes the work-week close to unbearable!

At least I have a new red Swingline stapler to finish off the Office Space motif!

I'm thinking of bringing in a candle. Let's just hope I don't burn down the building.

Happy VD!

2007-02-13T13:39:00.000-08:00

It's almost Valentine's Day!! I have pretty flowers!! Hurray!

Love and kisses!

Important Question

2007-02-12T08:23:00.000-08:00

Can anyone tell me what the eff *Norbit* is supposed to be about? Because from those commercials I just can't figure it out!

Best Diet Ever!

2007-02-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Looking to lose 5 pesky pounds? I suggest food poisoning! I just three days time, you can lose the weight, and your taste for anything with flavor!

Happy dieting!

Grab The Tissues!

2007-02-10T16:11:00.000-08:00

If this doesn't make you cry, you have no heart.

Global Warming: The Punxsutawney Phil Way!

2007-02-02T06:20:00.000-08:00

Gobbler's Knob -- The forecast from this quaint town in the Northeast is a warm one. From the Groundhog himself:

El Nino has caused high winds, heavy snow, ice and freezing temperatures in the west.
Here in the East with much mild winter weather we have been blessed.

Global warming has caused a great debate.
This mild winter makes it seem just great.

On this Groundhog Day we think of one thing.
Will we have winter or will we have spring?

On Gobbler's Knob I see no shadow today.
I predict that early spring is on the way.

Who knew a rodent could rhyme?! Good ole Phil's forecast, along with the recent controversy about the government covering up findings that back up claims of global warming, got me thinking. Can we throw out decades of scientific research and just go off the findings taken every February Second?

Let's take a look!

1887 is the first recorded year of Punxsutawney Phil's prediction..and he saw his shadow. It was only three years later where he did not see his shadow.

From here, the recorded history is spotty, at best. The records become clear again in 1900, where Phil sees his shadow 34 years straight until his first clear day in 1934. There was a partial shadow-spotting in 1942, but the record-keepers blame the war, not global warming, for that shady prediction.

He sees no shadow again in 1950, and then, let the warming begin!

Between 1970 and 1999, Punxsutawney Phil does not sees his shadow 8 TIMES!!! Before 1969, there are 3 confirmed cases where Phil did not see his shadow. After today's prediction, that makes 9 short winters in the past 28 years!

Punxsutawney Phil...winter forecaster...global warming predictor...

Al Gore would be so proud.

Mmm..

2007-02-01T05:56:00.000-08:00

The best part of having a 9-5 job? Being awake when McDonald's is still serving breakfast!

A Couple Of Questions

2007-01-31T06:27:00.000-08:00

Last night, I was driving to a tutoring appointment listening to NPR. They were talking about polling numbers or reading from an eskimo's journal...I can't remember...when they took a break and read a list of their sponsors.

And WLVI is now sponsoring the news on WMUR.

Ok, that's all well and good. Go ahead, Mr. Ansin, if you're not going to support me by writing me paychecks, at least go ahead and make that tax-deductable contribution to some shows I enjoy on the radio. But, it seems like your advertising resources may be a little misguided.

Did you not buy the station and promise to create a newscast that's fast, young and hip? Do you think advertising on NPR will help draw in that young, hip audience?

Maybe, for you, NRP is young and hip. But I think that Alaskan eskimo would disagree.

(No haters, now. I love NPR!!)