Chocolate

So much for a day off. Oh well, I don't have to stay for long. It's going to be a half day. I have decided to stay go over to the kid's dad's house to pass out candy. I probably won't be there for long, since I can barely stand him. This is perfect. I will only stay until I feel it necessary for me to get the heck out of there before he completely irritates me. I will have had my night of fun for about an hour.

Well, let me get out of here so I can get back early. I have to decide what treats to buy. Chocolate, lots and lots of chocolate.

To Go Or Not To Go, That Is The Question

Good morning. Here's to another productive day in the world of the single mom, working woman. Ugh... I do not want to get out there today.

I am taking the day off tomorrow. My kid has a concert tonight. I can't wait to get some pictures. Sorry, but I won't be posting any. I am not comfortable putting pictures of him on my blog. Personal preference, I guess.

Halloween can't come soon enough. I can't wait to see all of the kiddies' costumes! Perhaps I can photograph some of them. I can't decide if I want to go to a hockey game, or just pass out candy. Decisions!!!

Well, let me leave you now so I can go out and merchandise the masses in my stores. Fun.

Fall

The dim light of the sun trickles in between the blinds. I can hear the soft motor of the 2 seater airplane flying over. Shadows grow longer as the time passes into dusk. Soon, the smells of fall will say goodbye, new smells of winter will announce themselves. I think about the smell of wood burning fireplaces and the warm glow of lights seen on each little house I will pass by in my car, heading home from a long day at work. My favorite season, fall, is present in full array. Beautiful orange, gold, red and copper leaves blanket the trees, only to fall and accumulate into huge mounds in every yard. The cold, wet air welcomes you in the afternoon, your couch beckoning you to curl up to enjoy a fine read.

I just love fall.

Questions Answered

Morning! To answer some of your questions the past few days, I will divide them up.

First, what message did I leave to my guy friend? I just told him I was thinking of him and wanted to see how he was doing. I told him to give me a call, or I would try back. He emailed me the next day telling me he received the message. He said he would call me back soon, but has been busy.

Second, what did I have to drink when I went out with friends? Water and iced tea. I am allergic to alcohol. Sucks, doesn't it?

Third, who is my favorite female and male character on Grey's Anatomy? Well, that would be easy. The male used to be Dr. Burke, aka Preston Burke (Isaiah Washington). Now I would have to choose McSteamy, aka Mark Sloan (Eric Dane). My favorite female is a toss up between Yang, aka Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh) and Dr. Bailey, aka the Nazi, aka Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson). Is it sad that I know all of their names? I do like all of the others as well. The only character I am tired of is George.

So, there you have it. I am off again for another day of work. Here's to a quick weekend!

Night Out

Well, instead of staying at home in front of the television last night, I went out with friends. First, a friend who recently moved to Cincinnati was in town. Several of us met at On the Border to have dinner. It was fun times. Then, three of us decided to go to a bar. I am not usually known to go out to a bar, but I figured what the hell, I already had missed Grey's Anatomy. Now, we didn't just go to any old bar. One of the guys I was with confided in me yesterday that he was gay. Uh, yeah. I knew he was when I first met him five years ago, but was just waiting for him to say something. He finally told me and his girl roommate. Anyway, he asked the both of us if we would go with him to a bar he hangs out in so we could see where he hangs out at. At first I was not comfortable with going, but I thought if I was going to be a supportive friend, what could hurt?

It wasn't bad at all. Most of the people were men that were my age. They were all professionals, mostly working downtown in one of the offices. And yes, there were some hot looking men in there. I didn't have loads of fun, but the conversation and the people were great. I wanted to be there for my friend, and now I have so much more trust in him. He was able to tell me, even though his own family doesn't even know. He said he felt relieved after telling us. That must be such a big secret to let out, having to keep it from those you love for most of your life.

So, I have all of my shows DVR'd from last night. Don't tell what happens!

Pooped Out!

I'm home and I am pooped out! It was such a long day with so much to do. I haven't even had lunch yet. What I need is a nap. I am going to snooze for about an hour or so. I will catch up with all of you after Grey's Anatomy this evening. Later!

I Have Issues

Sorry for the lack of comments on all of your blogs. I am a little behind. I have been putting in more 12 hour days, starting at 5 am. Took a nap when I got home today, then vegged out in front of the boob tube. I have one more big day tomorrow, then all should be back to normal.

Thanks for all of your comments about my issues with dying. I guess I am most afraid of the actual dying. Knowing that it's happening, while it's happening, freaks me out a little bit.

Okay, enough about that. Other news: I called my best guy friend, got the answering machine, left a lame message, and then kicked myself after I did it. I do have issues.

Scared Of Death

Is anyone else out there afraid of death? This subject came up when I visited my parents' house on Sunday. My mom, sister, and I confided to each other that we were all scared to die. I am scared more now that I have a child then when I didn't. I guess for me, I just don't know what's going to happen after it happens. Will I even know it happened? Will I even know I am dead? Mostly, I am scared of what will happen to my kid. No one can love him like I can. This scares the shit out of me. What do you think?

I know some people will comment that you have to have faith in God. I know that. But even with faith, you have to wonder. Wouldn't it just suck if all the people who have this faith end up dying and it didn't turn out like it was suppose to?

This subject is a little touchy. It's a little morbid. It's what I fear. So, there you go folks. Honesty and emotions worn on my sleeve.

Flyin' By

Mornin. I am working late today. I won't be back until this evening. I promise to post something then. Hope you all survived yesterday. It went by so fast!

I'm Back From Airplane Hell

Good morning! I am back. Got back late last night, after our flight was delayed three times. We actually got home about 1:00 this morning, therefore the reason for no post last night.

It was fun!! The last night there was the best. We were taken to dinner by some major "foodies" who are multi-millionaires. We ate at Maloney and Porcelli, located on 50th between Park and Madison. The atmosphere is LOUD!!!! But, having the big mouth that I do, I fit in just fine. The guys we were with were even louder. I asked why everyone was shouting. My response was "classic New Yorker talk". Cool. I could hang with that. I ordered the rib steak, not knowing it was going to be 30 OUNCES. Holy cow, that steak was HUGE!!! I couldn't eat all of it. I also got the yummy fingerling yams in vanilla sauce, and a blue cheese salad wedge. We had choices for dessert. I stuck with the coconut creme layer cake. It was light and airy, perfect for the end of a filling meal. The best part about that night was the company. These guys definitely knew how to have a good time. Even though I will probably never see them again, it was so much fun.

We didn't do much sight seeing. We only went to Ground Zero and our hotel was at Times Square. I took our group to see Rockefeller Center. Our training was in Greenwich Village, so you know I had a good time there. It's my favorite part of the city. If I had to live in New York, I would live there. I found out how much it would cost, and I could easily afford it. The only problem would be transportation. I would never drive. It's way too hectic.

Well, I am very happy to be home. I have the weekend off. My plans are to see my parents tomorrow. It's about a two hour drive from here. I plan on being gone for most of the day. This evening we are going to a hockey game. It's our local team and it's their first game. The arena will be packed for one night out of the season, which is always opening night.

Okay, so I am off to catch up on all of you. Let's just say it's going to take me a little while to do that. Have an awesome weekend.

I'm Off

Good morning. I haven't even packed yet. Everything is laid out on the bed until after I get dressed and groomed. Then it's all going into the suitcase. I would say I am a light packer. The shoes are what weighs me down. I am only taking five pairs, including running shoes. So, only four pair for work attire. You just never know which one you will want to wear until you put them on.

We have the whole four days planned out. Tuesday evening we are having dinner at Artisinal. Should be fun. On Wednesday, we are touring all of the local supermarkets. We will be dining at Patsy's. Then on Thursday, we are spending the day in Greenwich Village (my favorite place in NYC) and working in the local cheese shop there. Sometime on our trip, we will be going to see the Lion King on Broadway. We are cut loose from the group on Friday. I have until 2:30 to do whatever I want. WooHoo!

Oh! I am going to miss my kid so much. He's not happy about me going for a second time without him. I promised to bring lots of presents back for him. You know I will.

I plan on using the computer in the hotel a bit, so I will try checking in. Have a great week!!

Lots To Do

Good Morning. I trust you all had a good weekend. I did. Lots to do today before I leave for NYC tomorrow. I will try and check in later.

It's raining! Yeah! I absolutely love the rain. It was pouring big time earlier. I think I will enjoy this moment while I read blogs. Later...

Back at you later

Good morning. Hope you all had a great weekend. Mine is going okay so far. Not much to write about this morning. Got to head into work. Back at you later.

Quickie

Quick post before I leave for work. Gotta drop off the dry cleaning today. WooHoo NYC!! Here I come again! Hope you are all having a fantastic weekend!

Bring On The Rain

It's starting to rain!! WooHoo! I just love the rain and a good thunderstorm. Bring on the rain!

Yeah! It's Friday!

What an absolutely gorgeous morning!!! I am so glad I am off today. I have so much to do. I have to get ready for the trip back to NYC on Tuesday. I am going to be gone for four days. The job is sending me to learn about merchandising. WooHoo!

I have to get all of the laundry done up until I leave. I will have plenty to do when I return. I need to drop off dry cleaning. Bathroom has already been detailed, so no worries there. I have got to detail the kitchen. I am making the kid do dishes, and I plan on doing everything else. Oh yeah, the kid has no school today, so we are working together. He needs to earn his allowance some how.

Grey's Anatomy last night left me feeling hungry for more. It's lacking this year without Washington (Dr. Burke). I loved his character. But, I am a true fan of the show, so I will stay tuned next week to see what happened.

Survivor was great. They got rid of Dave. Thank goodness. I wish someone would find that hidden immunity idol.

The Office! Oh how I absolutely love this show. I love the triangle between Pam, Jim, and Dwight. It's freaking hilarious!!! I am constantly laughing my ass off when it's on. It reminds me so much of my best friend and what he would do.

Hope everyone is off to a good start for the weekend. I am so happy Friday is here once again!

Thursday Night T.V. - Gotta Have It

Mornin. I am off to a late start today. Oh well. It won't be a big deal. It's Thursday and that, my friends, means Grey's Anatomy, The Office, and Survivor. WooHoo! I'll catch up with you tonight after the show.

I Can't Pay Attention In the Morning

I just kicked Josh out of the room. He tends to talk to me while I type, and I can't stand it. I hate not being able to pay attention to both. lol...

Well, it is going to be a long day. I didn't get home last night until almost 8. Today will probably be an 8-7 day. Oh well. I am off Friday and the kid doesn't have school.

Have a great day everyone!

Scrubbing Toilets! Anyone?

Good morning. It's my late night (till about 7:30), so I am getting ready to go in to work. Just wanted to check in with everyone. Looks like I have some cleaning up to do this week. I don't want it to get out of hand. Anyone want to help me scrub toilets and wipe down mirrors? It's the bathroom's turn to get cleaned today.

p.s.

Congratulations to Mary Kay. She was my 10,000th visitor. Thanks for stopping by!

Wonderful Weekend of Pictures

Hey everyone! It was a good weekend, even though our Chiefs lost. I was at the game and I could have thrown my shoe at the team several times. Ugh...

So, Bonnie was curious to know a little more about Kansas and where I live. I wasn't able to get any pictures of Wichita, but I was able to get some pictures of the scenery on our way to Kansas City. If you click on the picture, you get a better view.



Flint Hills

Famous Cattle Pens off of the turnpike.

The scenery of the Flint Hills is beautiful. The Kansas River is one of the prettiest rivers. This was shot going through Lawrence. Then, there is Kansas City at 6:30 in the morning. The stadium at 7:00 am. And the last picture is what we got to drive through on the way home. It was raining so hard, we did about 40 mph for about half an hour.

Leaving

I have updated the blogs to the right. And yes, I read every single one of them, every single day. Well, I am getting ready to leave for Kansas City. I have an overnight bag of clothes, my comfy shoes, Tony Gonzalez's jersey, and my camera (pictures for Bonnie).

I will catch up with all of you tomorrow evening. Till then!

Weekend Off!

Good morning. I have the weekend off. Can you believe it? I am spending time with the kid and one of his cousins. I am taking them to a outdoor/indoor sports complex. We will play mini golf, perhaps get on some go-carts, play some video games, and do the "boy" stuff my kid loves to do. After that, we will come back to the house where both kids will partake in a couple of hours of PS2 and then the kid and his cousin will head off to his dad's house for the rest of the weekend.
Josh and I will be going to Kansas City tonight. We won't be back until tomorrow, but I will be sure to update before we leave and then again when we return.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Friday Nights

Beloved Friday nights.

This wonderful night is when many get dressed in warm clothing to go and watch their favorite hometown football team demolish the big rival.

Friday nights are when the teenagers all get together at their favorite hang outs and drag main street or the strip, showing off the loud bass in the speakers and the bling bouncin' off the rims of their oh so carefully polished sleek car.

Friday nights are when many suits, dressed in their "Casual Friday" threads, get together after work in downtown restaurants and pubs to reflect on the work week that was.

Friday nights are when many couples get dressed up to go out on the town and eat at the finest restaurants, patiently waiting for their drinks to be refilled and the check to get to the table.

Friday nights are when the young ones get to stay up because there is no school tomorrow, and sleepovers and slumber parties are quietly tucked away behind warm windows of light.

Oh, how I love Friday nights.

So, what did I do on my Friday night you ask? I cooked one amazing dinner for my two favorite boys. I started off with a lettuce wedge, drizzled in buttermilk ranch, topped with halved grape tomatoes and bacon bits. I prepared Italian panini sandwiches, made with Italian Boule artisan bread, 3/4 of an inch thick. In between the slices of this hearty bread were slices of Boar's Head Black Forest Ham, Boar's Head Pepperoni, and Boar's Head Hard Salami. Fresh slices of buffalo mozzarella topped the meat. The outside of the bread was brushed with an olive oil mixture of chives, garlic, and dill. The sandwiches were placed in a hot cast iron skillet and cooked evenly on both sides until the bread was toasted and the buffalo mozzarella a gooey goodness. Along side the paninis were the most amazing fingerling potatoes that had been drizzled with olive oil, garlic, and dill. I grated Italian Pecorino Romano cheese over the potatoes and put them under the broiler until they were roasted perfectly.

Dinner was perfect. The company and atmosphere were perfect. This Friday night, my Friday night, is perfect.

Good Morning! I didn't get a chance to update the blogs last night with all of the shows I wanted to watch. First, Survivor China, then Grey's Anatomy, and then The Office. Loved them all! I am running late this morning, so I will catch all of you later this evening. Have a great day!

Here's To A Great Day!

I am getting ready to go to work. I am updating my blogs on the right this evening. Many of my favorite shows come on tonight! Can't wait for this evening. Here's to a great day!

Last of the Pictures

Here is the sea of red at the opening game for the Chiefs. We won this game.

The players are practicing on the field. You can click on the picture to get a better view.

And last, but not least, the opening game festivities. It was such a bright day, I actually got a severe sunburn and am still peeling from it. Yuck.

Pictures Round 3

If you take a look at the door, it says 1/2. Space is tight here.

The first picture to the left is the Manhattan Bridge. We crossed this into Brooklyn to get the next picture. Breathtaking, isn't it?

Are We Friends?

Dear Friend,
Well, I guess I can't make everyone happy. I am not about to try. If you are mad at me or are uncomfortable with something I did, then you need to tell me, email me, or do something. Because the silent treatment is getting really old. I have thought for some time we were good friends, even though I don't know you as well as some people. Your silence is hurtful and self-centered.


Okay, now that I have this off my chest, I will return later this evening with more pictures.

Round #2 For Pictures

We went to a Yankees game Tuesday evening. They won against the Orioles.









During our tour of Greenwich Village on Tuesday afternoon, we had the pleasure of seeing the skinniest house ever. It was only 9 1/2 feet wide. It sold for around 2.5 million dollars. Insane.










This is Palma, the wonderful restaurant we saw on the tour. It is located in Greenwich Village. We came back here on Thursday for lunch. This is where I had that delicious vegetable panini sandwich with fingerling potatoes.



Here is the garden of the restaurant where we had lunch. The guy with the Yankees shirt on was our tour guide, Curt. He is the one who reminded me of Conan O'Brien.

Pictures As Promised #1

Here are some photos of the trip. I will post some sporadically throughout the week for all of you. If you click on the picture, it will magnify so you can get a better view.

Here is a picture of the little park we sat in while we waited for our food tour to start. It is located in Greenwich Village.

Rocco's was a place we visited three times. First for coffee, second as part of our tour, the third time we went back on a different day and bought...

two each of these cookies.

Tonight

Pretty sure brother is going to be okay. He is coming back on Thursday for further testing, but his doctor is sure it's probably nothing.

We are grilling tonight. Cheeseburgers, Nathan's hot dogs, and salmon for me. Yum-O! Some of my favorite shows come on tonight. Heroes and The Hills. Yes, I am one of those chics who likes the nonsense drama of Lauren and her friends. I can't help myself. I watch it to make me feel better about myself. Knowing I am not like most of those loser girls makes me oh so happy! I have a life, even if it isn't full of shopping and working four hours a day, or eating out at the most expensive restaurants in L.A. I live in REALITY.

So, I am signing off for now. Hope you had a great Monday.

Monday Is Here

Good morning. Let me go and grab my cup of coffee...

Yummy! Hot coffee with a hint of hazelnut creamer and a sweet n' low packet. Stir it all together for yumminess. Here, let me take another sip...

Aahhh.

Okay, enough about my morning coffee. Monday is here. A start to a new week. The boss is on vacation this week and I was put in charge again. Groovy. Should be an easy week.

I am cutting this post short, but will return this evening. Have a great day!