Creative Juices

2005-09-09T10:19:00.000-04:00

I Cant Believe This Is Goodbye

Well, kids, its official... purplesabrina.com is finally up and running. Please change your bookmarks, links and such to direct there instead. I will not be updating this blog any longer.
Thanks for reading. And I hope you enjoy the new site.

2005-09-08T08:30:00.000-04:00

Looking Out For Number One

It's my favorite time of year. Cause with Fall comes the start of the television season. The week of the 19th is the true premiere week, but there are a couple of smart shows that will start a week or two before.
The best show, is, thankfully, starting tonight. If you arent watching The OC, well, I dont even know why we're still friends. Cause, clearly, you dont care what I have to say. You better have a damn good reason, at this point. Like, its against your religion or something. But even if that were the case... pick a new religion, man.
Watch The OC. 8pm, tonight.

2005-09-07T11:37:00.000-04:00

Who Are You? Do Do Do Do

Goodness, it's Wednesday and I'm still catching you up on my weekend.
Saturday was very very busy. We started off the day helping JJ & Angela move into their new apartment. Then we hung out with Brad & Cindy for an hour, at their housewarming party. After that, we trucked it up to Lynchburg for Nick's surprise birthday party. Unfortunately, we missed the "Surprise!" part of the party. Thats what I get for cramming 45 things into one day.
But there was excellent cake, made by Kelli.

Yes, that's a MINI Cooper cake. It was super yummy.

2005-09-06T11:47:00.000-04:00

You Cant Help Yourself From Falling

Normally I dont talk about my job. Not because I'm worried about getting in trouble for it, just because my job is usually incredibly boring. I work at Duke University, for Continuing Studies and Summer Session. The Summer Session part of my job should be explanitory. The Continuing Studies part of my job handles auditors, non-degree students and the occasional visiting student from another university. (the unlisted part of my job deals with a lot of IT related things, including being primary web editor for our department).
However, on Friday, my job got crazy interesting. As soon as I walked in the door that morning, I was pulled into a meeting and notified that Duke had decided to admit 75 students displaced my Hurricane Katrina. They would be admitted as visiting students for the Fall. Our office handles, maybe, 2 visiting students a year. And now we would be admitting 75 though our office, with a turn around of 5 days.
As you can imagine, once the press release hit the papers, my phone was ringing off the hook. I spoke to almost 200 people on Friday, and we accepted about 30 students. Our offices were staffed through the holiday weekend (which, somehow, I got out of)and accepted about 15 more.
My point is. I had no idea how I could help out. Besides the usual of giving money, there didnt seem like there was much else I could do. It hadnt even occurred to me that students from all over would suddenly not have anywhere to go to school. Sure, thats not as devastating as losing your home, your job and all your possessions... but still, I'm glad I was given the opportunity, though my boring job, to help a few kids feel not so displaced anymore.

In other news: Pacey, my beloved fishie, passed away over the weekend. He had a long life, much longer than Dawson or Joey. He was a good fishie. He will be missed.

2005-09-01T13:46:00.000-04:00

Born In The USA

Well, since everybody else is whining about the gas prices, I guess I will too. Truth is, I dont really care about the prices. But I'm bad with money, so that shouldnt matter. I'm pretty sure since I've been born, prices have been going up. That's why I got a 3% raise this year, right? Cost of living, baby. I realize it was a quick jump, but the reason for it seems to make sense to me. Meanwhile, its our own fault for being so dependent on it. One day, They'll realize how dependent we are on toilet paper (when there are few trees left in the world) and then we'll be paying 20 bucks a roll to keep our bums clean. Bidets will be just as popular as hybrids.
Thats my two cents.
Wait, let me have that back... gotta fill up my tank... need every penny I can find...

2005-08-30T11:53:00.000-04:00

I Mean This, I'm Okay

Happy Birthday to my brother! He's 14 today. In true 14 year old fashion he started off our conversation over-dramatically wishing he were dead, and ended it with loving gratitude for the kick-ass presents I got him. Ah, the teenage emotional spectrum, gotta love it.

And now, I bring you some breaking news, a day late. Just like The Daily Show. As reported on Nick's blog Vroom, a truly awesome awesome band, will be reuniting for one night. While I had no other reason to attend my alma mater's homecoming (I'm still a little bitter about the jeans), I will now be gracing Lynchburg with my presence for the Vroom concert. Really, I have no words for how excited I am.
I was a bit of a late bloomer when it came to loving Vroom and only had one chance to see them in concert. Lucky me, and everyone else, I get one last chance. Just when I thought my summer concert series couldnt get any better... Michael Buble, Jimmy Eat World, Green Day and Vroom. Rock on.

2005-08-29T08:44:00.000-04:00

Place Your Hand In Mine

I'm going to let one picture tell you how good Bogart's was.

Folks, thats a cleaned plate. My cleaned plate. Its possible, that in the history of Sabrina, this has never happened before. I'm not a plate cleaner. I always leave something behind... but Friday night. I cleaned my plate. And still wanted more. Steve and I got the rotisserie sampler platter, a special for the evening. Bogarts's specializes in rotisserie meats, and our platter included a little of each, chicken, pork and beef. With some smashed potatoes and asparagus as sides. All of it was absolutely divine. Every meat was melt in your mouth good.
However, better than the lovely dinner selection was the martinis.

Excuse the poor quality of the photos. My camera did not seem to enjoy the swanky atmosphere and lighting as much as we did.
At eight bucks a pop, I only got to enjoy two martinis. First I tried the Mixed Berry Martini. It was, by far, the best drink I have ever had in my entire life. I downed the whole thing and licked the sugared rim all before my salad arrived. With my meal I tried the Watermelon Jolly Rancher Martini. It too was super yummy. Kinda sticky, but still lick your lips good. I will definitely be returning to try some more, preferably on Thursday night when they are half price. Cause then I can have four!

I believe Steve can confirm that we had a lovely night. The only disappointment was that the live band was outside for the evening and we were seated inside (before we realized that was case). Sheesh, the one time I would have volunteered to eat outside.... We know for next time, though. And there will be a next time. And if you're interested in going, we'll definitely join you.

The happy couple:

2005-08-26T10:49:00.000-04:00

But They Dont Know What I Know

Happy Anniversary to us! The big oh five.
And I've got two dozen red roses to prove it.

Tonight, we'll be putting on our finest and dining at Bogarts. I'm looking foward to live music, steak and martinis. Mmmmm.

2005-08-25T10:01:00.000-04:00

Sing It Back

Lets start with the most disappointing part. I'm sad to announce, Jimmy Eat World does not read my blog. I know, I know. They dont know what they're missing. I know this because, as you can see from yesterday, I personally requested three songs. Of the three I requested... they played none. None. Zero. Sure, they played some other songs I quite love. And yes they left me wanting more (3 songs more, at least), but really. Would it have been that hard to work my requests into their set list? No. Therefor, JEW does not read my blog. Shame.
But they are a mighty fine band.

Green Day's not so bad either. They were a lot of fun. Billie Joe is a nut. He screamed "Raleigh" about 400 times. And everytime the crowd cheered and cheered. The friends around me seemed to tire of it (which makes sense considering four of them were from Lynchburg) but everytime he screamed it, inside I said "Yes! That's me! I'm Raleigh! Yay me!" I was also seriously wooed by Tre Cool. Be mine Tre Cool. I heart you. He's a very very good drummer and he drums just the way I like it. And he's cool. As his name suggests.
The crowd was pretty impressive. Considering how long Green Day has been around, it spanned a very large age group. People our age, and kids younger than my brother (most of them with their parents). The 12 year old chubby kid sitting next to The Steve made me laugh. He was super cute and into it. But I couldnt help thinking... you werent even born when Basket Case was a hit. The moment that encapsulated the generations was when the kids pulled out their cell phones and the adults pulled out their lighters. There was a big mixture of blue and yellow glows.
I had an excellent time. I was in good company and I got to hear two bands I love.

2005-08-24T09:48:00.000-04:00

The Innocent Can Never Last

You know what today is. T minus 9 hours. And then I'll be rocking out to Jimmy Eat World, followed by Green Day, with The Steve, Nick & Kelli and Tim & Annie. Can you think of anything better? I can not.
Here's my song wish list. Please please please play these songs. My chances, I think, are high. Jimmy, dear, please play "If You Dont, Dont", "Lucky Denver Mint" and "Kill" I'll be enternally greatful. And Billie Joe, hun, just play all 9 minutes and 8 seconds of "Jesus of Suburbia/City of the Damned/I Dont Care/Dearly Beloved/Tales of Another Broken Home." Thats all I really want to hear. Thanks.
I'll try to take a picture. Something tells me these boys wont be nearly as... kind... as Michael Buble' was.
But I wont mind too much, it will certainly be unforgettable! Yay!!

2005-08-23T11:55:00.000-04:00

You Always Know The Perfect Thing To Say

My half birthday was yesterday. 26 and a half. All of your cards, chocolates, cakes and expensive gifts must have gotten lost in the mail. I'll take that up with the post office later, dont worry.

2005-08-19T10:48:00.000-04:00

You Make Me Smile

I love Swedish Fish.
That is all. Have a good weekend.

2005-08-17T13:27:00.000-04:00

He Is Calling Me Dude

Lets talk about today's shopping adventures.
I went to Northgate Mall. This mall is less than 5 minutes from my work, so I go there often. They really should rename this mall - Ghetto Mall. But I bet that wouldnt do so well for marketing... how about Ghettofabulous Mall? Because, really, its pretty lame. GAP closed two years ago. Whats a mall without a GAP? Barely a mall, I tell you. And ghetto. But, if I dont get my weekly dose of malling, I might go insane, so I still visit. I was specifically going so that I could buy some yummy vanilla soap from Bath & Body Works. So, that was the first stop. In and out, right? Well, I have a tendency to linger. They always have new stuff to smell. And lately, I've been standing in front of the foot care products. See, I've been getting pedicures more frequently, and every time I sit there thinking, I can do this. And probably for a lot less than 40 bucks. But I cant decide what products I need... still... So, I'm lingering, thinking, pondering, by myself, and an annoying B&BW worker comes up. In one beat she asks me if I've tried the new blah blah blah and without waiting for me to answer she has my hand and is squirting lotion on it. I HATE when they do that. There's a thousand test bottles around the store. You'd think, if I wanted lotion on my hand, I'd squirt some myself. I wanted to answer "Yes, I have, and I'm deathly allergic!" But I'm only that crazy in my head. I let her rub the lotion into my hand, and said "hmmm, smells like suntan lotion." I HATE the smell of suntan lotion. Yuck. But I thanked her and made my way to the counter with my hand soap (which, btw, is on sale, 5 bottles for 15 bucks).
After B&BW, I took my pineapple smelling self down to Victoria's Secret. See, they have these lovely, fabulous, beautiful, amazingly soft, yet so so pretty, PURPLE pajamas. I've been by twice to see them. I havent bought them yet, because I'm usually pretty good about waiting for something to go on sale. But, I got a little worried because these wonderful pajamas werent online. Usually, if something is only in the store and not online, it wont stay around for long. So, today I decided to get a little more information. As I stood whispering sweet nothings to the perfect pajamas, a VS worker came by and commented "Arent those the softest pajamas ever?" Yes, yes they are, but I cant find them online. "No, they're a test product. Brand new. 90% Modal." Whatever that is. Sweet sweet synthetic fabric. I love you. Marry me? I still didnt buy it, though. I'm so so torn. On one hand, if its a new product, and the testing phase goes well, then it'll be around for awhile and eventually much more on sale. On the other hand, what if BECAUSE I dont buy it, it doesnt become a regular product? And then it'll disappear! and not be my own! and no! one! else! will get to experience its wonderfulness either! And then the whole world will hate me.
I left the store with that dilemma in my head and decided to use Old Navy as a distraction. It worked for the time being, but since I had to walk by VS to get to PacSun... I was drawn in again. The same woman noticed me and asked if I was back. Yeah, duh. Then I asked her if I could take a picture of them. I know, I know, Sabrina! Why did you ask? Why didnt you just discreetly whip out your camera, take the picture and run? I'm such a goodie goodie. But really, I frequent that mall often, and like they were going to forget my pretty face? Not worth it. Anyway, she said no, of course, and I tried again, saying that it was my anniversary next week... and I'm SURE my husband would buy them for me. But, if I cant show him what they look like (which I cant, cause they're not online) he'll probably buy the wrong ones. She says "Just tell him they're are the ones made with Modal. Only items in here with that stuff." Right. Thanks. But THEN, she goes "Do you have a camera phone?" As if she would have let me if I did! Damn. Cause I dont. And for that, I'm a loser.
I left the store, whispering goodbye to the majestic pajamas and continued on my journey. To PacSun to buy a much too expensive tshirt for my brother's birthday. Then, to Chickfila for chicken strips, the only thing that can take away the bitter pain of not buying the perfect for Sabrina pajamas. Well, that or cake.

2005-08-16T14:14:00.000-04:00

Baby Wont You Save The Last Dance For Me

Apparently I'm having a really good hair day. So far, three different people at work have commented on my hair. "Did you get it cut?" "Are you growing it out?" "Have you colored your hair recently?"
I am growing it out. And while the other two answers were no, at least there was something noticable different today.
I know why. But I'm not telling.

2005-08-15T10:51:00.000-04:00

I Love To Wash In Your Old Bathwater

There's no way around it, getting up at 4:30am sucks. But I did, for The Girls. And Rachel. All in all we had a good time, though there were a few moments when I thought I'd burst. But that was just the lack of sleep talking. We spent a good amount of time at McDonalds (thank God for playplaces) and then walked around my favorite craft store. We picked out a few classic crafts to take back and spend the afternoon with. First we made some sand art. Both of The Girls were great at pouring the sand into the little bottles. After that they colored some lovely velvet art. Then we made my old favorite craft, those suncatchers that you fill with little colored crystals and bake in the oven. Spending so much time on getting those right (its a very tedious process, did you know?) I was very thankful to my mom for not strangling me while making those when I was younger. But they turned out nicely and The Girls were pleased.
Things I learned with The Girls:
Meg: "Chicken is different from chickens."
Me, in all my grammarness, said "You mean chicken is singular and chickens is plural?" No, she couldnt have meant that, cause she didnt know what those words even mean. "Chicken is what you eat, and chickens are animals." This is true. And then I pondered why you dont say "Boy I ate a lot of chickens today..."
Cute things The Girls say:
Kyra: "That's fine, Meg. You color, while I take care of God's creatures. That's much more important." (While Kyra was working on her suncatcher, Meg was supposed to pick up any crystals that fell to the floor, so the cats wouldnt eat them. At some point, she refused).
Meg: "Even though I still have more ice cream, I'm going to listen to my body, and I think it's saying it's full."

The winner, my sport of choice, is hockey. I'll be cheering for the Hurricanes. The rest of you can kiss my ass. Grrrr. (sorry, just practicing).

2005-08-12T12:01:00.000-04:00

Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

I think I'm gonna pick up a sport. Not play a sport, that would be silly. That requires sweating and exerting and, most of the time, being outside. Watching a sport, I mean.
My reason for adding sports to my List Of Things I Care About is because I've become too girly. Thats pretty clear. With the frilly clothes and the curling of the hair and the baking and cooking and homemaking and "super duper yay!" whatever. Its sickening. Need to balance it out. With something manly. Like sports. Grrrr.
But, what sport do I pick?
Football is out. (Sorry JJ & Angela). I've been watching the Superbowl for years and years and I still dont get football. That, and it bothers me that I cant see their faces. (which, I know, is kinda girly).
Baseball is much too boring. (Again, sorry to JJ).
I think, my top three choices would be Soccer, Hockey or Women's Basketball.
Soccer should be eliminated because my only reason for picking it is because the boys are cute. And thats girly. Which is what I'm trying to avoid, remember?
Hockey, I like, for a few reasons. Its inside. And cold (bonus). The Canadians like it, and Canadians are my friends. We have a team here, so I can support our community. The only thing I dont like about hockey is the violence. I'm not a violent person. (Although... that would make me more manly...)
Women's Basketball is important to me because it would keep me connected with Beth Ann (its her last day today). Beth Ann LOVES Women's Basketball, and specifically Duke's team. I could love them too. But I dont think I could love them as much as she does...
Why not Men's Basketball? Women are better than men. And thats not girly, thats a fact.
So, what do you think? Any other sports I should consider? If Quidditch really did exist, I'd be all over that. Damn JK Rowling for creating a great sport that no one could ever play.

2005-08-11T08:38:00.000-04:00

And You're Ever-shamelessly Tempting Me

Yesterday definitely needed cake. So, I spent my lunch hour at Mad Hatter's. I tell you, every time I go to this place, I love it more. I ordered my usual kids pizza (mostly because I'd feel guilty if I just ate cake for lunch, even though thats what I really want). I sat with Sylvester and read a chapter in my book. Now, last time I ordered my kids pizza, which comes with dessert, the guy didnt bring me a cupcake till I finished my meal. This time around, I finished my pizza, pushed my plate away, even crumpled napkins on top, and nothing. No cupcake. No cookie. No dessert of any kind. Which, if you recall, was my reason for eating at Mad Hatter's. This, of course, was not acceptable. If they forgot my plate of asparagus, maybe I would have let it slide. But I NEEDED cake. And thank God for connections. It just so happened that my friend Stan had started his shift. I went up to say hello and then politely asked if I should get a cookie or cupcake with my kids meal. "Oh yes, Mommy, you get a Build Your Own Cupcake Kit!" (He calls me Mommy, its a long story). So, he went back and put together my kit, to go, and I took it back to the office.

I was half tempted to take that little pastry bag of frosting and squirt the whole thing in my mouth, but I resisted. I waited until my 3pm snack time and built a lovely cupcake. I'm sure you can guess which sprinkles I favored.

After work, I joined the 'cool' people from our office for Beth Ann's Unofficial Going Away Party. We had drinks and appetizers at Federal. It was good. The fries were very good. You should try the fries. I learned that my safety drink is called a Cape Cod. I call it Vodka and Cranberry Juice, but apparently, if I want to make it out there, in the big bad world, I need to be calling it a Cape Cod.

For the past couple of weeks, Beth Ann has been asking, repeatedly, for me to quit my job and go with her to school. Studying something would be optional, she just wants someone to ride the bus with her and walk around campus. While I think this invitation sounds much more exciting than my current job, unless she pays me, I wont be able to go.
Clearly, she will be missed. Like crazy.

2005-08-10T11:17:00.000-04:00

Dearest Constellation

I apologize to all 27 of you that visited my blog yesterday to find nothing. Nothing.
I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. (not because of that) I had planned a relaxing weekend, filled with not much of anything. The only thing on the agenda was finishing up our office. For more than half a year, the office has been in limbo. The walls are painted, but not finished. The desk is installed by so far from organized. The shelves are bought, but not hung. Its the only room in the house that still has unpacked boxes. And its been driving me insane. So, I was looking forward to it. But then something came up, something involving The Girls. And we know I cant say no to The Girls (or Rachel), its my curse. We'll have a good time, for sure, and all will be well.
But then, I look at next week and its jam packed too.
So, lets not think about that. Lets look ahead. To the future. To the week after next. Cause that week is going to rock.
We start off with Monday, August 22nd. Its my half birthday. I'll be 26.5, very important. Dont forget to buy me something nice. (Its also Slava and Yura's one year anniversary).
Tuesday, August 23rd also brings good tidings. Season 2 of The OC releases on DVD that day. Only 16 days before Season 3 begins. I highly recommend you purchase the DVD and get caught up. Its the best thing on television. I swear.
Wednesday, August 24th could possibly be the highlight of the week. The Steve and I will be joining some friends for the Jimmy Eat World / Green Day concert at the RBC Center. While nothing can compete with the joyess joy of seeing Michael Buble, this concert guarantees a very close second place.
I'll recover from that on Thursday.
To close off such an exciting week, Steve and I will be celebrating our 5th anniversary on the 26th. No plans as of yet. I'm still deciding if I should go ahead and plan something I'll enjoy and just tell The Steve to be there, or if I should leave it up to him to plan something. But who knows, maybe he has something up his sleeve already...
And thats my happy week. Hooray! Now it just needs to hurry up and get here.

2005-08-08T09:35:00.000-04:00

But The Beauty Of Grace Is That It Makes Life Not Fair

My 2nd attempt to take Sylvester to the doctor was thwarted by Tax Free Weekend. Silly state of North Carolina and their insane back to school sales. And even this morning I couldnt get an appointment for today. I guess I'll just keep trying and hope Sylvester makes it through.
In other news, I recently signed up for a stat counter for my blog. And now I am seriously addicted to it. I never really cared who was reading my blog. I knew at least a couple people were and my mom wasnt and that's all that really mattered to me. But now, its an obsession. I'd like to give a specific shout out to those people I dont think I know... Hello Boston, Charlotte, Rocky Hill and Austin. Thanks for checking me out. Feel free to identify yourself. There was also a person from Poughkeepsie, NY (which I actually know of that town because my cousin went to college there) that searched for "Sabrina" on Yahoo! and clicked on me. I wasnt what they were looking for, though, cause they didnt spend much time. Come back, Poughkeepsie, come back! My regulars range from Chicago to Ireland. Who knew?!
This is my officemate, Beth Ann's, last week working. Its going to be a sad week. I'll even miss her obscenely loud gum chewing. I'll be spending more time on how much I'll miss Beth Ann later this week.

2005-08-05T14:47:00.000-04:00

I Guess I'm Born To Be The Long Lost Friend

I was recently introduced to a new blog A Monkey's Eye View. It's written by Jordan, the younger brother of my lovely Rachel. I've been greatly enjoying his blog over the past couple of weeks and thought it time to share with you. Have a read, you wont be disappointed. His subject matter ranges from cute baby animals to women's breasts. And there's always lots of pictures. And he has swag. See, I told you you wouldnt be disappointed. All its missing is some purple.

2005-08-04T08:22:00.000-04:00

Your Love Is Extravagant

For some reason, I had it in my mind that when I walked into the Apple Store, the Geniuses would be waiting for me. With their latex gloves and sterile surgical tools, they'd meet me at the front door with a gurnie and rush Sylvester to the bar in the back, shouting "Code Blue!" and pushing people out of their way. I mean, wouldnt they have read my blog, known of Sylvester's condition, and like all my other concerned readers, be waiting for me? Not the case. Like any Emergency Room, there was over an hour wait to see a Genius. Unfortunately, that wait would have cut into my previously scheduled "Movie with Rachel" so, I couldnt stay. Sylvester will just have to live with his condition till I can get back to the Apple Store. Whereas I cant think of a better place to wait, I couldnt last night. Maybe Saturday.
But that left me some time to shop. And since my world really does seem to revolve around Sylvester, we went into the mall and up to GAP. I picked out a pair of their new jeans to try on (turns out I'm not as curvy as I thought, at least by GAP standards (which, I am aware are incredibly off)). With the trying on of pants, I was supposed to get a free iTunes song. But all the GAP employees were busy following some manager around, so it required me standing around for awhile before someone was kind enough to ask me if I needed assistance. After my inquiry, I did get my little gift card that says "Whats Your Favorite Song?" Well, I probably already own my favorite song, but I'm sure I can find another one to buy sometime soon. And when I return to the mall later on for Sylvester, I'll be sure to try on another pair of jeans... maybe I'm an Original.

2005-08-03T15:16:00.000-04:00

Pounding Out With Every Breath

Sylvester will be going to the doctor today. Its possible they'll recommend an operation. It might be an out patient procedure, it might require that he check in for awhile, and wont be allowed any visitors (which would mean no one to sing to).
We shall see. You may keep him in your prayers. You know, if praying for inanimate objects that Sabrina is incredibly attached to is your thing.

2005-08-02T10:37:00.000-04:00

You Spin Me Right Round, Baby

I wanted to post yesterday, but I got into work late and spent the day playing catch up. Now that the 300 piece mailing is stuffed, stamped and labeled, I have time for important things. Like blogging.
This past weekend was my brother's last weekend here. So, Friday night we got a group together (what turned out to be a very large group) for some bowling. I rarely bowl. And I usually think its kinda lame. But I had a really good time. We shoved 8 people on a lane, so I had about 15 minutes between each round for some quality socializing.
Here are some action shots for ya.

Cindy brought her own ball. Nuff said.

Steve scores.

My first game (as usual) sucked. But my second game, well, I doubled my score.
Proof.

The rest of the weekend was spent going to the mall, seeing Wedding Crashers, eating good food and hanging out at church. Monday, I took my brother to the airport. It was sad to say goodbye, I greatly enjoyed him being here. Its not so hard to live with a 13 year old. I cant wait till next summer.

2005-07-29T13:33:00.000-04:00

The Fabric of Our Lives

Well, seems like I hit it right on the money with that webcam pic. Good to know that when given the option of super cute babies and hot (literally) Sabrinas, you go for the Sabrina. I suppose I'll leave it up for the weekend, cause well, now I feel like I cant compete with myself. And also for those losers who dont visit my website regularly. Wouldnt want them to not know what we're talking about.
Meanwhile, I have to admit, I have been quite out of it lately. Lots of blonde moments. Take for instance, my shower routine. Shampoo hair, rinse hair, wash face, shave, condition hair, soap up, rinse hair. Seven easy steps to a fresh and clean Sabrina. Except when I'm so out of it (and for no good reason, its not like I'm tyerd) that I condition before I shampoo. Or, like yesterday, I put face wash in my hair. "Hmm, this doesnt feel right... Oh, it was supposed to go on my face." Meanwhile, my hair was probably screaming "Whyyyyyy are you putting salicylic acid on me? I've been so good to you! Do you not remember the curls? That was for yooooouuuu!" I did feel bad, and conditioned twice to make up for it.
Its not just shower routine problems, though. While stopped at red lights, I space out so much that I miss a green arrow or I look up and oh look at that, wonder how long that's been green, guess I should get moving...
What is up? Something is sucking the smarts out of me.

2005-07-28T12:26:00.000-04:00

And I Will Because You've Worn Me Down

Yesterday, in all the hotty hotness I made my way to the hospital to greet brand new baby Callie Faith. My friend Marissa has been carrying her around inside for what seemed like years, but turned out to only be the traditional nine months. Now that Callie has finally entered the world, at a relatively tiny (these days) 6 pounds 4 ounces, I decided a visit from Sabrina was due.
Check out this super cute baby.

And her super duper cute little baby feet.

Don't worry, I didnt stay long enough to catch the baby bug. And even if I did have a bit of it, it quickly went away once I met up with my brother, to be reminded of what all little cute babies turn into, long haired rockers.

I met Donnie at my church, to plug him into the system and give him a taste of what it feels like to play guitar on stage, with loud speakers. In true 13 year old fashion, he claimed he didnt know how to play anything. But after some coaxing, I got to hear the beginning of several songs. I'm hoping next year, he'll be able to play a whole song all the way through. By the end of the evening he said "I didnt realize it'd be so easy to get over the stage fright." And me, being a sister said "The audience was empty, in couldnt be that hard."
Always an encourager, I am.

2005-07-26T10:08:00.000-04:00

Tonight For Me Translates To Yesterday For You

My mom flew in on Friday to hang with us for the weekend. While seeing my mom is always wonderful, it also puts me completely on edge. For no real reason, or not for bad reasons. I just, tense up. Well, there is one thing. My brother has been here for two weeks and we've really been having a great time. We get along very well. No argueing, he does what I ask (because I ask nicely) and though we dont spend every moment together (I've been working most days, and he usually spends a large chunk of the evening on the computer) the time we do spend together seems to be quality. My mom and my brother do not have this kind of relationship. All they do is bicker. No fighting, or argueing, no door slamming or bad language. Just plain, simple, incredibly annoying bickering. Lots of "Nuh uh!" "Yeah huh!" "Nuh uh!" "Yeah huh!" ENOUGH!
Luckily, in the midst of that, my weekend got broken up by a visit from Nick and Kelli. We enjoyed a lovely Saturday matinee of the movie I've been dieing to see, March of the Penguins. Oh Penguins. If all fathers could love their children like the Emperor penguin loves his.... After the movie we played some putt putt. I got a couple hole in ones, thats all that matters to me. Then we enjoyed some dinner and conversation at Chili's.
Mom flew back home on Monday and Donnie is hear for another week.
This morning, I went downstairs to make Steve's lunch and Donnie was sitting at the island, eating. Mind you, it was about 6:45am. And in my head, there was a 99% chance that he had yet to go to sleep that night. And I will never understand it. I know I was once 13. And I know I went to bed at a relatively normal hour every night. And even when I had friends sleep over, staying up just past midnight was a big deal. Yet he can manage to stay up till the sun comes up, all while trying to convince himself he's not tyerd. I realize at the ripe age of 26, where very little gets in the way of my 10pm bedtime, its unreasonable for me to even try to comprehend this life. I know lots of night owls, and I dont think its crazy. But staying up till 7am for no good reason? Yeah, dont get it. "What were you doing all night?" I asked. "Mostly I was just on myspace, looking at people's sites." Wow. What a waste of darkness. He said he just wasnt tyerd. Then I went back upstairs to get dressed and ready and when I came back down to leave for work, he was sound asleep on the couch. Ohhh, the insanity of a 13 year old boy. Some things I will never understand.

2005-07-20T09:44:00.000-04:00

Rather Waste Some Time With You

Advertising these days has gotten so consumer specific. The ad I came across this morning in my Entertainment Weekly was directed at me, and only me. "Cupcakes Just Got Purplicious." Whats that? Cake? Purple? Purple Cake? Okay, I'm sold. Pull up the Hostess truck, I'll take four billion boxes. Thank you.
Really, though, who else would buy Chocolicious Wonka Cakes (which are really just regular Hostess Black & White Cupcakes, but Sabrinafied)? I'm pretty sure just me, and anyone that wants to buy me something wonderful.

Update: Food Lion had my cupcakes. Yay for Food Lion, home of Cheerwine Swirl and Wonka Cakes. It was super tasty. Yummy yum!
I'd like to state for the record, though, that I'm not insane. My love for purple does span deep and wide, but I know that some things are better off being another color. Take for instance that craziness when Heinz released purple ketchup. Ketchup should be red. Only red. End of story.

2005-07-19T10:46:00.000-04:00

Cause I'm Dumb Like That

The other day my brother opened a conversation with "Don't tell anybody, but...." By 'anybody' he means my mom, not you, dont worry.
He then told me that he was going to get a tattoo. Uh-huh. You're right, he's only 13... how's he going to do that? We all know neither of his parents are going to offer parental consent. Turns out his girlfriend, Stevii, knows a girl that does tattoos. Lovely. Luckily, I'm trained enough in 13 year old speak to know that if I said "Dont do that" it would only translate in his brain to "You must do that!" So, I went with a long talk that touched on these points "Be responsible, Be safe, Be sure." I tried to stress as much as possible the importance of sterile needles and a clean environment. Beyond that, I talked about how important it is to have a good artist. Considering that this person is going to put something permanent on your skin, you better be sure she knows how to draw. And just cause she can draw with a pencil doesnt mean she can draw with a needle. I'm sure you're wondering what he wants to get. A heartagram, on the inside of his wrist. First off, ouch! The inside of your wrist! That skin is crazy sensitive! But, considering that I'll never understand boys and pain, I decided to stay away from that topic. No need to insult his (budding) manhood. I've done my research on the heartagram. It was a symbol created by a metal band, HIM. They say its a cross between a heart and a pentagram, and to them it symbolizes the balance between love and hate, or life and death. HIM's big thing is the phrase "Love Metal" and I'd imagine to most of their fans, thats what the heartagram means to them. So, I just told Donnie to be sure that 30 years fom now, he's still going to love metal and the heartagram will still be an important symbol in his life. Of course, its hard for him to see past 15 years old... so I'm sure that didnt help much. Luckily, I have the story you all know of Uncle Jimmy and his Luck of the Irish tattoo. That'll scare anyone into making sure what they get colored on their skin forever and ever is something important and, well, correct.
All in all, I spoke my peace. I'm not against tattoos, but I do think its a very big decision and he should take some time to consider it all. But above all that, please please be safe.
With all that said, I seriously doubt he'd actually go through with getting a tattoo. How many friends did you have in junior high that talked of getting one? Yeah, its a good thing I didnt get the NKOTB tattoo I wanted so badly....

2005-07-18T09:18:00.000-04:00

I've got you, under my skin. I've got you, deep in the heart of me. You're so deep in my heart that you're really a part of me. And I've got you under my skin. I've tried so not to give in, you know I said to myself this affair ain't gonna go so well. But why should I try to resist when, baby, I know so well, that I got you way under my skin. I would sacrifice anything come what might for the sake of having near, in spite of a warning voice that comes in the night and repeats in my ear. 'Dont you know, you fool, you never can win. Use your mentality, step up to reality.' But each time I do, just the thought of you makes me stop before I begin. Cause I've got you, you're under my skin!

Best. Night. Of. My. Life.
I guess you want details. Why, Sabrina? Why was this the best night of your life? What about all those other important nights (sorry, Dear).
Lets see, we got there extremely early. I was early picking up Beth Ann and I definitely did not abide by many traffic laws on the way to Greensboro. We waited around till the doors opened. We examined the swag (my brother bought an autographed CD for my mom). We took some pictures.

Me and my handsome brother (now taller than me, yes) before the show.

Me and Beth Ann, before the show.

Then the theater doors opened and we went up to our seats. They were very good seats, 2nd row mezzanine. I had opted for those because I wanted a clear view of the stage and didnt want to worry about some very tall person sitting in front of me and blocking my view. Later, you'll learn why I kicked myself.
The lights dimmed and we all clapped.
Someone, not Michael, came on stage. In a few seconds we realized he was a comedian. Beth Ann, my fount of all knowledge prior to my birth, leaned over and said "Sinatra always had a comedian open for his shows." Well, well. How nice.
It took me a few minutes to be okay with the fact that he was delaying Michael Buble' from being on stage, but he did tell some very very funny jokes. He was Canadian as well. A few of his funniest bits included a story about his best friend, and how terrible it is when you decide to play a joke on your friend and realize how stupid they actually are. He went on to talk about a time when he was out, walking by a lake in Toronto. The lake was frozen over and his friend goes "Hey, where are all the ducks?" and he says, jokingly "They're under the water." "Really?" "Yeah, sure." By this point he's thinking, is he for real? "You mean, hibernatin' and stuff?" "Yeaaaah, hibernatin." Oh God! I've made some major life decisions based on advice from this friend and he thinks the ducks are under the water?!! Funny guy. He also talked about a french song that he learned as a child (I learned it too)... " Alouette, gentille Alouette. Alouette je te plumerai. Alouette, gentille Alouette. Alouette je te plumerai. Je te plumerai la tête. .Je te plumerai la tête. Et la tête, et la tête. Alouette, Alouette. O-o-o-o-oh. Alouette, gentille Alouette. Alouette je te plumerai." He went on to explain to us what the song means... which I knew too. But it was still funny. Eventually he gets around to translating the song completely, which means " Lark, nice Lark. Lark, I am going to pluck you. I am going to pluck your head, I am going to pluck your head, And the head, and the head, O-o-o-o-oh.Lark, nice Lark. Lark, I am going to pluck you." Heh.
He finally finished and out came Michael. He opened with "Feelin' Good", which is the first track on his current CD. The band was freakin' awesome, let me just say that up front. I've never had a chance to see a big band play live before, and the auditorium we were in was great for the sound. More than any other genre' of music, this would definitely be my favorite to see live. It was very powerful.
After that he sang "Sway." and then he took a break to talk to us. He said something like "It's so great to be around friends tonight. Because, I gotta tell you, my best friend, well, he's a dick. No other way to say it. You see, he made me believe that the ducks were hibernating under the frozen lake..." Haha. Then he thanked all the men in the audience that didnt want to be there tonight. And said "Now, we're just here to do a job. And that job is to put a little air in the tires. And if we do our job right, you'll get to ride it all night long." Heh.
He sang a few more songs.
Then he stopped again. To say " Now, I know it says on the tickets and programs and stuff, no photography-" One woman in the very front row flashed her camera. "Haha! But you dont give a shit, do ya? No, you guys payed a lot of money for these tickets, and if you want to take pictures, please do." Thousands of flashes. Including me!

Then he goes "Wait, wait! If you're going to take that many pictures, let me pose!" So he runs over to the brass section. "1, 2, 3!" And they all pose.

A couple more songs and then he asked for house lights. (apologizing to the light guy for driving him crazy). He said he felt bad for all those in the back of the auditorium that could barely see him. So, he asked the band to play him some music while he hopped off the stage and walked allllll the way through the Orchestra section. And that's when I kicked myself. Cause even though we had a great view, better than those in the back of the Orchestra, well, they got to hug him. Eventually he climbed back on stage.
Plenty more songs followed after that. At some point, the beginning of "Fever" started, with him snapping (what an amazing snap of the fingers he has!). But when he started singing, he sung "Alouette, gentille Alouette" We all laughed.

About half way through the show, he says "You know what, I gotta tell ya. I hate jazz. I hate it! Standards just bore me!" (Which is his genre, in case you dont know). And then he proceeded to sing a few different songs from others, he tried a little opera, Josh Groban style. A little Mariah Carey ("minus the breasts"), a full redition of "This Love" by Maroon Five and ending with some "Billy Jean."
Then he admitted that standards are still his very favorite and sang a few more.

This one was taken through Beth Ann's binoculars.

He did an encore and ended the show with "How Sweet it Is."

After the show, we walked around back and stood on the sidewalk. There were three tour busses and a limo, so it was pretty obvious. Lots more people joined us, but they all gathered around a gate surrounding the tour buses. We noticed band members starting to come out the side door, so we kept our spot on the sidewalk, away from the crowd and close to the door. We complimented every band member as they walked to the bus. Then. Then it happened. My brother said "Thats him, that's him!" And I spotted him, between two guards. My radar was locked and I walked straight up to him and handed him the sheet of paper I was signed. I fumbled with my sharpie, but he already had one in his hand and quickly signed. I GOT HIS AUTOGRAPH! Then, he walked by me and I put my hand on the back of his shoulder and said "You were awesome tonight." Well, I honestly dont know what I said. I hope I said something like that. It really could have come out like "Mmmmmmmmmmmm. Mmmmmm. Mmmmmm. Blaaaah. Mmmm." But apparently I was so in the zone that I didnt hear one of his bodyguards say "Ma'm, please step away." Beth Ann and Donnie told me that later. So, its possible he thought I was a little crazy. But I'm okay with that. Cause I got his autograph.

I'd sacrifice anything come what might for the sake of having you near, in spite of a warning voice that comes in the night and repeats, how it yells in these ears. 'Dont you know, you fool, no chance to win. Why not se your mentality, wake up, step up to reality.' But each time I do, just the thought of you makes me stop just before I begin, because I've got you, under my skin. Heh. And I love you, under my skin.

2005-07-15T10:01:00.000-04:00

Girl At The Rock Show

Well, my brother has been here for five days. So far, I've taught him how to cook a Taco Ring and Chicken Pot Pie. He's taught me how to strum a G and an E cord on the guitar. Well, maybe taught isnt the best word, not like I could remember where my fingers go now...
We've been to The Gardens, Paint the Earth, Southpoint (twice). Tonight we'll be seeing Fantastic Four (hope it's good). And TOMORROW! We're going to see my dear sweet Michael Buble' (which will definitely be good).

2005-07-14T09:23:00.000-04:00

This Mood Of Yours Is Temporary

So, we all know The Girls have gotten me interested in birds. Last summer, I saw my first hummingbird and spent many an evening at The Mulder's house, watching their feeder. Then, I decided to buy my own feeder and put it up on our back porch.
All through spring the feeder sat there, mostly with disgusting water in it, moldy from the combination of rain water and sugar water. Gross, I know. Then, Monday evening, I spotted a hummingbird fly by the feeder. I knew he was disgusted, so I ran outside and cleaned the feeder. Gave it fresh new sugar water and prayed that he would return. The next night, he did. Or she, Kyra would know.
Last night, I got pictures. They (more than one) hung out by the feeder for quite awhile. Fluttering around, having a good time, enjoying Sabrina's Special Sugar Water.

2005-07-13T11:09:00.000-04:00

And I Can't Catch You

I've been, uh, tagged. In other words, I have to answer a set of questions from Christin's blog. But, the game stops here, I'm much too old for tag.

(1) Imagine it’s 2015. You are visiting the library at a major research university. You go over to a computer terminal (or whatever it is they use in 2015) that gives you immediate access to any book or journal article on any topic you want. What do you look up? In other words, what do you hope somebody will have written in the meantime? That's only ten years away, so my biography wont be published yet.

(2) What is the strangest thing you’ve ever heard or seen at a conference? No names, please. Refer to “Professor X” or “Ms. Y” if you must. Double credit if you were directly affected. Triple if you then said or did something equally weird. One year at Liberty, in Ministry Chapel, some guy went on and on about how evil kids cartoons were. He insulted every cartoon I ever watched as a child, from Smurfs to Captain Planet. I think its the only "sermon" from Ministry Chapel that I remember.

(3) Name a writer, scholar, or otherwise worthy person you admire so much that meeting him or her would probably reduce you to awestruck silence. Really, all I can think about is Michael Buble'. What if we make eye contact? What if I get a chance to get his autograph? Will I be able to even thank him?

(4) What are two or three blogs or other Web sites you often read that don’t seem to be on many people’s radar? I'm a big fan of Entertainment Weekly, they have this blog, full of mostly useless information.

2005-07-11T15:12:00.000-04:00

I Can Breathe for the First Time

Sucessful wedding! Yay! Lots of pictures, more yay!
Here are some highlights, but you can go here for the rest.

Here are all the girls, just before the ceremony.

JJ and Angela, sharing their vows.

JJ and Angela, cutting the cake. (Mad Hatter's cake, that is)

Me & Steve

2005-07-08T10:37:00.000-04:00

All Dressed in White

Tomorrow, these two lovelies tie the proverbial knot.

I am honored to be a part of their wedding. Wait I better not waste too much mushy stuff here, I still have a toast to write! (and hopefully they're much too busy the day before the wedding to be reading this... I will write the toast!)
This may be my last maid of honorship, unless I hurry up and make some more single friends. Or, unless I take this show on the road and become a professional MOH.

2005-07-07T11:12:00.000-04:00

Paper Faces on Parade

Can you say "busy"? I cant, I dont have time. Work has been insane this week, and life hasnt been any less than insane too. But, I know you're dieing to know how I spent my 4th of July weekend, and I need to tell you before the fun and games that is THIS weekend happen.
My 4th couldnt have been anymore American. Or suburbian, for that matter.

On Friday we went with some friends to a Baseball game. It was hella hot out, but the game went super fast (and we won, I think... people clapped at the end). The fireworks were over by 9:30.
Monday night we went across the street to BBQ with a few of our neighbors and friends. That was very nice. Having neighbors to BBQ with.

Tomorrow starts the JJ & Angela Wedding Festivities with a lovely pedicure in the afternoon. Then rehearsal and super yummy dinner at Maggianno's. Mmmm. Saturday will be full of weddingness. Sunday, after church and a baby shower, my brother arrives for 3 weeks of "How to live with a 13 year old." Stay tuned.

2005-06-30T15:28:00.000-04:00

Sabrina, Fair, Sabrina, Dear

I recently got caught up with an old friend of mine, Sam. He's a graduate from Amherst College in Massachusetts. He's also an excellent photographer and has landed himself a good job taking pretty pictures. As I was browsing his gallery, I came across a picture titled "TheSabrina" Unfortunately, it was a little mysterious, because the picture only showed a few men with a cloth over something (presumably, The Sabrina). I inquired and he told me about a famous statue at Amherst, The Sabrina.
Check it out. (the page might be slow to load, go get a coffee and come back for it).
So, I spent the rest of my afternoon learning all there is to know about Sabrina, Goddess of Amherst. Its pretty amazing. The statue has been the source of pranks forever and ever. Not only that, but they used to hold banquets in her name (or my name, if you will)(which I'm thinking of bringing back as a tradition). Most importantly, though, there's a song.

"We may sing of our glorious college,
Of the old chapel steps and the bell,
Of the class-rooms just filled full of knowledge,
Which all Amherst men love so well.

But to-night as we're gather'd together,
Let us raise a strain loudly and strong
To her from whom naught can us sever,
To her who keeps watch o'er our throng.

Sabrina, fair, Sabrina, dear,
We raise to thee our hearty cheer,
Come fellows, all, and give a toast
To her we love, and love the most."

That's right. I've always wanted a song.

2005-06-30T11:28:00.000-04:00

Why Can't You Learn?

I'm having a hard time finding a mail service that meets my needs. Mailing packages is something that occurs at least 12 times a year for me. I need someone I can trust.
USPS blew it a long time ago. We already know how I feel about needing to buy insurance for the packages you send. Between long lines and packages not getting to their destination when they say they should, forget about it.
So, then I tried a place called UMail. They were much too pricey.
Last night, I took several packages to FedExKinkos. The pricing was fine, considering I was sending a few things priority so it would make it on time, stupid holiday weekends. But, the woman packaging my mail was noooot very good at her job. Maybe I should have prefaced my requests for packaging with "Hi, I'm Sabrina and I'm incredibly anal." As she would tape a box, she would just smack the tape on... not flatten it nicely. It would get all wrinkled and hang off the edges all stuck together on itself. Does she not know she has the nifty tape dispenser to make things easier? And then she'd smack the labels on the box, totally off center and crinkled. It kiiiilled me. I was trying to hold back, but every once in awhile my hand reached out to fix some tape or smooth out the edge of a label.
Is it so much to ask that the outside of my packages be as neat as the nicely wrapped presents on the inside?
I realize my ultimate solution would be to package the boxes myself. Normally I would. I was just in so much of a rush to get these out on time and I didnt have any empty boxes at home, or the time to buy some elsewhere and assemble them myself. Boy have I learned my lesson.
Or maybe I should just open my own national mail service. Sabrina's Anal Timely Cheap Deliveries. Dont worry about insurance, we're anal.

2005-06-28T11:30:00.000-04:00

And a New Sewing Machine

Since a post is better than no post, here's a survey I've borrowed from Angela's blog. Quit your whinin and enjoy.

THREE NAMES YOU GO BY (technically I only go by one, but lazy people have made shorter versions)
1. Sabrina
2. Bri
3. Sabby

THREE SCREEN NAMES YOU HAVE HAD
1. poohcarr
2. pooh102601
3. purplesabrina

THREE THINGS YOU LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF
1. my eyes
2. my patience
3. my level of commitment to things

THREE THINGS YOU DON'T LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF (hmm, much easier to come up with than what I do like.)
1. when I over commit
2. when I worry
3. my body

THREE PARTS OF YOUR HERITAGE (Heritage: Something that is passed down from preceding generations; a tradition.)
1. Eating corned beef cabbage on St. Patrick's Day
2. My love for New York City
3. Being passive agressive

THREE THINGS THAT SCARE YOU
1. bees and their friends
2. the dentist
3. time travel

THREE OF YOUR EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS
1. food
2. tv
3. birth control

THREE THINGS YOU ARE WEARING RIGHT NOW
1. jean jacket
2. black skirt
3. wedding ring

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE BANDS OR MUSICAL ARTISTS (this is currently)
1. Michael Buble
2. Jimmy Eat World
3. WAM on a good Sunday

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE SONGS (at the moment)
1. Kissing a Fool - Michael Buble
2. If You Dont, Dont - Jimmy Eat World
3. Lord, Let Your Glory Fall - as played by WAM with Simpson on drums

NEW THINGS YOU WANT TO TRY IN THE NEXT 12 MONTHS
1. pilates
2. baking panna cotta
3. painting pottery

THREE THINGS YOU WANT IN A RELATIONSHIP (with who?)
1. Love
2. Excitement
3. Trust

TWO TRUTHS AND A HALF-LIE (in no particular order) (comment and guess which one's a lie) (whats a half-lie?)
1. I like eggplant
2. I havent worn a bathing suit this year
3. I have another outdoor wedding this year

THREE PHYSICAL THINGS ABOUT THE OPPOSITE SEX THAT APPEAL TO YOU
1. nice arms
2. nice smile
3. a good wink

THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE HOBBIES
1. tv
2. baking
3. scrapbooking

THREE THINGS YOU WANT TO DO REALLY BADLY RIGHT NOW
1. Eat cake
2. watch tv
3. go to the beach

THREE CAREERS YOU'RE CONSIDERING (career? no. job possibilities, yes)
1. home maker
2. teacher
3. Creative Memories consultant

THREE PLACES YOU WANT TO GO ON VACATION
1. A cruise
2. Las Vegas
3. Hawaii

THREE THINGS YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE
1. Go on a cruise
2. Snorkle with the sea turtles
3. Adopt a child

THREE WAYS I AM STEREOTYPICALLY A CHICK
1. The words I use
2. I like wearing heels
3. Bugs gross me out

THREE WAYS I AM STEREOTYPICALLY A DUDE
1. I dont prefer to cuddle
2. I can put down a good steak
3. I like my music loud

THREE CELEB CRUSHES (today I'll go with...)
1. Ewan McGregor
2. Matt Czuchry (Logan from Gilmore Girls)
3. Charlize Theron

2005-06-27T10:49:00.000-04:00

Can You Still Feel The Butterflies?

Again.

Another outdoor wedding. Another evening with my feet in the grass and bugs plotting their revenge. But I braved it for the sake of the lovely bride and groom, Angie and Preston.

Being there with Rachel made it easier too.

Speaking of Rachel, she got offered a free week stay at a fancy schmancy beach house in OBX. And she invited me to join her and The Girls. Unfortunately, its looking like my over-committed self will not be able to rearrange my schedule enough to spend a few days there. But it would have been awesome.

2005-06-24T09:29:00.000-04:00

It's A Hard-Knock Life

I'm finding myself a little bit obsessed with this movie. I was under the impression that the movie released this weekend, but I just found out it only releases this weekend in LA and NY. I have to wait until July 22 for it to release in good ol' Raleigh/Durham. In the meantime, I'll just be watching the trailer, daily. Forget about Batman, it's all about the penguins. (except the Danny Devito penguin, he was messed up).

2005-06-21T16:32:00.000-04:00

I'm Trying Not To Lose My Head

Saw Batman Begins yesterday. It was VERY good. You should see it too. That is all.

2005-06-17T13:29:00.000-04:00

Marry Me, Bill!

It's wedding season, again. It feels like every other weekend, I have a wedding to attend. I really do enjoy weddings and all their extravaganceness. Seems like I'll even drive miles and miles for them.
As most of you know, The Steve and I did not have a wedding. Not the big fancy put you in debt kind, at least. We had a lovely ceremony, harp and all, in Dr. Troxel's living room. It was perfect. And five years later, I'm still glad we did it that way. That day was all about us, which is the way I think the start of a marriage should be.
That doesnt mean I dont get a little... jealous... over people and their beautiful weddings. I had big fancy plans. A whole purple binder full of them. That I still cant bear to throw away.
Here are just a few things I've been particularly jealous of lately:
1. The wedding dress. It still amazes me how putting on a fancy white dress can make any girl look stunningly beautiful. But there's more to it than that for me. I had designed my wedding dress and even went through the process of having it made for me. Its a one of a kind, original. Design by Sabrina, sewn by Susan Brent. I wore it for a total of ten minutes during my final fitting. And now, because marriage = weight gain, it doesnt fit me anymore. Yet, I cant bring myself to get rid of it. Like my kitchen stripes, its a vision complete.
2. Flowers. Oh how I love flowers. Particularly pansies. And my wedding was going to be full of pansies... and it would have been beautiful.
3. Pictures. I love the idea of beautiful, artistic, blank and white photos capturing the love and life of a couple. Even now, I would give anything to have candid photos of me and The Steve taken to encapsulate us at this time in our lives.
4. The Honeymoon. Okay, so I just have general vacation envy. Even if people are going to places I would never even think of going to, I'm jealous. "Oh, you're going to the swampy marshlands of Mississippi for a whole week? Wow! That'd be awesome!"
Tis the season.

2005-06-13T15:37:00.000-04:00

Some Girls Try Too Hard

Lets see. This past weekend The Steve and I drove up to DC to visit my good friend Emily and her husband Michael. Friday night we went to see "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants." Chick flick at its finest, I think. I have seen such a touching film about the coming of age since "Now and Then." Unfortunately for Amber Tamblyn and Alex Bledel (otherwise known on TV as Joan and Rory) their roles didnt exactly stretch them as budding actresses.
On Saturday we did some shopping, followed by a trip to the county fair. I got some cotton candy (never miss an opportunity for that). Shortly after that, I spotted the Tilt-a-whirl. As a child, this was my very favorite ride. I was even discussing it with my dad when I saw him in NY. We were reminising about Nelly Bly, this lovely little amusement park in Brooklyn. He used to take me there all the time. And I loved to ride the Tilt-a-whirl. Back then, the ride was red, white and blue. I was very excited when I spotted it and noticed it was not updated purple! Well, purple, green, white and pink. But I'm sure the purple was in honor of me. I had to ride it! Whats crazy, is how I had forgotten why I loved the ride so much. It was awesome. (doesnt take much to thrill me, I guess). See:

2005-06-08T12:58:00.000-04:00

I'm Drowning in I

Alright, I've been working very hard on this list. Angela did it on her blog. Its 101 goals to complete in 1001 days. Roughly to be completed before April 5, 2008. I'll be 29 years old.

1. Buy a (new to me) car.
2. Go on a vacation (to a place I've never been before).
3. Shop at a mall I've never been to before.
4. Film, edit and webcast the first episode of my cooking show (yet to be named).
5. Launch purplesabrina.com
6. Buy some webspace.
7. Call my brother once a week every week.
8. Go to a Jazz bar.
9. Bake one dessert from one of my Martha Stewart recipe books. (successfully).
10. Paint our guest bedroom.
11. Paint all the bathrooms.
12. Hang the black curtains.
13. Eat one piece of fruit a day.
14. Cut down to one bagel a week.
15. Find something I enjoy eating for lunch that's considered "healthy"
16. Be on time for everything in one week.
17. Go to the gym 3 times a week for an entire month (including that really busy week).
18. Feel better about myself.
19. Write a short story.
20. Finish a short story.
21. Let other people read it.
22. Go through all my VHS tapes and figure out what to do with them.
23. Volunteer for something with my brother.
24. Do not commit to anything else at church.
25. Buy The Steve an iPod.
26. Resist the temptation to name it Bluevester.
27. Dye my hair very red.
28. Try three new meals.
29. Read CS Lewis' "The Great Divorce."
30. Learn CSS.
31. Get a full body massage.
32. Wear a bathing suit five times in one summer.
33. Take someone to NY that has never been.
34. Stay in NYC without relying on family or friends.
35. See 2 Broadway plays I've never seen.
36. Go to three concerts of bands/singers I love.
37. Bring a bag lunch to work for three days each week for three months straight.
38. Go see Sabrina the Lemur.
39. Take The Girls to see VeggieTales Live!
40. Get a bikini wax.
41. Drink more water regularly.
42. Listen to an audio book on Sylvester.
43. Go through my childhood memorabilia and throw out a box worth.
44. Go through Christmas decorations and throw out what I havent used in two years.
45. Get through these 1001 days without having to take one of my cats to the vet for an emergency.
46. Pay off at least half our debt.
47. Turn a profit with my Creative Memories business. (and by profit, I mean money in the bank, I'm making money, but I keep spending it on inventory).
48. Help out with newhope's Homes of Hope.
49. Watch the first season of Scrubs.
50. Recruit three more newhope couples to live in our subdivision.
51. Replant my cyclamen and have her not die.
52. Do not gain anymore weight for 1001 days. (unless I get pregnant or something).
53. Design an ottoman and have it built for me.
54. Find the perfect fabric for MyVeryOwnBag(3).
55. Rewrite my job description.
56. Get a promotion.
57. Arrive at work on time everyday for one week.
58. Be in the audience of Ellen.
59. Win something worth $100 or more.
60. Learn how to play the piano again.
61. Get another houseplant and have it survive.
62. Plant bulbs in the fall.
63. Decide to have a child.
64. Do whatever needs to be done to have/get said child.
65. Help organize a newhope's Red Tent Ministries retreat.
66. Give a successful toast at JJ & Angela's wedding.
67. Take a cooking class.
68. Eat everything I make.
69. Prepare BBQ ribs that everyone enjoys (including myself).
70. Read Blue Like Jazz.
71. Don't lose touch with Beth Ann.
72. Take a pilates class.
73. Plant pansies and have them live through a season.
74. Go to my 10 year high school reunion.
75. Take a nap with The Steve.
76. Find vitamins I can swallow and take one a day for 60 days.
77. Start recycling.
78. Find a recipe for my favorite cookies.
79. Get my engagement ring reset with a matching wedding band.
80. Try my hand at coordinating a wedding.
81. Buy a new Pampered Chef skillet and dont damage it.
82. Dont lose my new purple umbrella.
83. Write Leah Mirabile a letter.
84. And mail it to her.
85. See Operatika live.
86. Get a physical. (blood tests included).
87. Stop carrying credit cards in my wallet.
88. Be more affectionate towards my husband.
89. Improve my posture.
90. Host another Murder Mystery Party.
91. Go to a Durham Bulls game.
92. Get new sunglasses.
93. Get someone hooked on "Grey's Anatomy"
94. Make my own print iPod advertisement.
95. Buy quality lingerie from somewhere other than Victoria's Secret.
96. Own all 6 seasons of Dawson's Creek on dvd.
97. Remember to bring a fresh set of batteries with me to an event (so I dont go to take a picture, the batteries die, and there's nothing I can do about it).
98. Take The Steve to get a tattoo.
99. Ride a rollercoaster that goes upside down.
100. Wiggle my toes in Astrolawn.
101. Help my brother obtain his first car.

2005-06-07T16:38:00.000-04:00

What Happened to We?

Just when I thought I wouldnt have anything to post for today, my officemate (66 days left) brought over this book and let me have a read. It's pretty funny. I'll give you an excerpt.

Possible Follow-Up Songs for One-Hit Wonders (by John Moe)
1. "How Are We Going to Get These Dogs Back in?"
2. "Bust an Additional Move"
3. "Seriously, Eileen, Come on"
4. "(Wont You Give Me a Ride Home From) Funkytown?"
5. "Remember When You Lit Up My Life? That Was Great"
6. "I Will Now Pass the Dutchie Back to You and Thank You for Passing it to Me Originally Because I Really Enjoyed the Dutchie"
7. "The Morning That the Lights Came Back on in Georgia"
8. "Everybody Was Kung Fu Making Up"
9. "Whoomp! There it Continues to Be"
10. "867-5309, Extention 2"
11. "We Never Took it and Persist in Our Refusal to Take it"

2005-06-06T11:17:00.000-04:00

The Way You Tip Your Hat

I'll be a better poster this week, I promise. It's only Monday and I'm already posting pictures from my weekend.
Saturday was a day of celebrating the institution of marriage. It started off with Angela's Bridal Shower. As the MOH, I had a lot of planning to do. Jamie, one of the bridesmaids, was a huge huge help. Probably couldnt have pulled it off (and lived to tell the tale) without her. Here's me and the lovely bride after a successful shower.

After that, Steve and I drove up to Burlington for our across-the-street neighbor's wedding (also known as Josh and Brianne). It was outside. We all know how I feel about that. But, I'm trying to be a trooper these days. Its all about sacrificing for others, right? These wedding planners were very thoughtful, as they provided each guest with a program that also doubled as a fan (or bug swatter, however you want to look at it).

And just to prove it, here are my toes, incredibly close to grass.

I bought Steve a new tie for the occassion (and a few other upcoming nuptuals). Here he is, totally stylin.

And lets not forget about the beautiful bride. Lovely dress, I must say.

So, I guess we shouldnt leave out the groom then, either.

The evening ended shortly after we were standing in the grass watching them cut the cake, and I felt a bug on my foot. I lifted my foot up to ask Steve to get it, he flicked it off and I asked "What was it?" and he said "You dont want to know." End Scene.
After that, all I could think about was going home and scrubbing my feet.

2005-06-03T13:30:00.000-04:00

I'm So Busy, Oh So Busy

Dont worry, I'm back from NY. You can breath a sigh of relief now. Sorry it's taken me so long to post... most people would think me leaving my job for a few days wouldnt cause any major calamities, but I've been insanely busy catching up. Today, however, as been slow as... something really slow, as slow as a 56k modem.
So, NY. Not only did I get to post from the road, through the wonders that are TWC, I also got to see my very greatest friend Slava and my very, uh, crazy family. The circumstances for seeing the fam werent the greatest, and kinda weird considering that all my other trips to NY for family related events have been weddings, or Christenings, or holidays... funerals suck. But it was nice to see everyone, including the two newest additions to the family, my second cousins Anthony and Alivia. And now that all my cousins have had kids, the only question we heard all weekend was "And what about you two?" Luckily, my dad came to the rescue. He's been 39 years old for as long as I can remember (and still cant explain how I'm catching up to him in age) and he said that I dont need to have a child till he turns 40. Deal.
And I still love New York City. We definitely didnt spend enough time enjoying it. But we did get to attend our first Russian ballet with Slava and Yura. And I did get to walk around at a street fair. And I did get to have zepplies. And Mr Softie. And I did get to walk around Central Park. All, very lovely. And here are some pictures from the weekend to prove it.

This picture is inspired by Christin. I title it "Sabrina in DC Traffic (inspired by Christin)"

Steve driving The Galant at super warp speed

Mmmm cake! Look at all those berries! This was Slava's birthday celebration cake.

Say hello to the Verazanno Bridge. This is the bridge that takes you from Staten Island to Brooklyn.

Also say hello to the Washington bridge (foreground) and the Manhattan bridge (background). Here's a little New York factoid lesson for ya... there are three bridges that connect the East side of Manhattan to Brooklyn and the Bronx. They are, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan Bridge and the Washington Bridge. Most easily remembered by their acronym, BMW. My cousin Jen taught me that.

My dad and his wife, Rose, own the most cutest little dog EVER. Her name is Sugar (and she has a neighbor dog named Spice). She's five years old, and only weighs three pounds. The best part about her is that you can hold her close to the floor and her legs start moving super fast, put her down on the ground and watch her go!

Here's a view of Central Park from Aunt Debbie's old hotel, Le Parker Meridien.

Oh, Mr Softie! How I love my vanilla cup of soft serve with colored sprinkles. See Rose carrying Sugar? Yeah, Sugar doesnt walk on anything but grass. She's a spoiled little puppy (but so so cute!)

Me and my Daddy

This summer, they set up an amusement park where Wollman's Skating Rink is during the winter. It was pretty neat to see. But 6 bucks a ride. Only in NY.

We tried to ride one of these, but there was a line. And New Yorkers dont wait on line for something touristy.

After all that walking we went for lunch at The Burger Joint. Dont we look tyerd? The Burger Joint is this awesome dive located inside Le Parker Meridian. Its totally out of place in the super fancy hotel, but so so good. And you can get a whole meal for 8 bucks. In the city, thats a steal! This place sells over 800 burgers a day. Oh, and to the left of me, Jennifer Lopez signed the wall.

One of my favorite parts of Le Parker Meridien is the tvs in each elevator that play cartoons or three stooges or whatever. How cool is that?

Here's Me, Aunt Debbie and my Dad outside Le Parker Meridien.

And one more picture of Steve and Sugar for good measure.

After all the New Yorkness, Steve and I stopped by Ikea in Elizabeth, NJ to enjoy their well advertized 3% sales tax. We purchased a few items for our bedroom, 2 Malm Nightstands in white and the matching MALM dresser as well as the lovely Stollet pendant lamp. For the office, we purchased several Lack shelves in white. We also bought this pretty Mirror that will make it's home at the top of our first flight of stairs.
I Heart Ikea.

2005-05-27T14:55:00.000-04:00

Come By Me

Coming to you live from somewhere on 95N in Northern VA, it's Sabrina!
How cool is that? Thanks to TWC (who seems to provide everything that feeds my addicition to the internet and television) I am blogging via a wireless connection, while sitting in the passenger seat of a lovely rented Galant. Sylvester is keeping the music upbeat and happy, as we enter the second leg of our 8 hour drive to my favorite place.
Thats all I've got going on. This is definitely the easiest trip I've ever taken... good tunes, internet access and a very comfy car (with two cigarette lighter power thingys for all my technological advancedness).
See you when I return!

2005-05-24T08:20:00.000-04:00

Honesty Or Mystery

Worst. Morning. EVER.
I woke up extra early, partly because we got home late last night (from Brad's birthday extravaganza) and I didnt feel like showering then... so I woke up early to wash my hair. I also woke up early to finish making my pies. I managed to get a pie and a half made before leaving for Brad's.
After my shower, I went downstairs to check on the pies. Strawberry Cream Pie, good to go. Just needs the strawberries on top and a little drizzled melted chocolate. I'll do that later. Tuxedo Pie, not so much. For some reason, and I really still cant figure out what I did wrong, the chocolate pudding didnt set. So, this morning, when I went to spread the vanilla pudding on top, it just sort of lumped in the center and sunk down. Not good. I got so frustrated with it (why would a pie dare to disagree with me when it's only 6:15 in the morning?) that I threw it out. Unfortunately (and this will teach you that frustrated actions get you no where), as I was scraping it out of the pie pan, I missed the trash can and pudding went all over my just-swiffered-on-saturday floor. I cleaned it up before the cats ate too much of it, but I'm sure the crime scene is still sticky.
After that I started making the White Chocolate Raspberry Pie. No catastrophies there. It looks scrumptious. Just needs some white chocolate drizzled on top and yum. But I created a motherload of dirty dishes. I left the dirty dishes because it was already 7am, so I needed to start getting dressed and stuff.
Did that.
Had some time, so I decided to unload the clean dishes from the dishwasher and start another load. Still had a few minutes, so I started washing some dishes. Really, I should have been smarter than that, cause I really am the messiest dishwasher ever. Halfway through, I splashed very dirty (dirty with chocolate, strawberry goo, and a few smushed raspberries) ALL over my white shirt and purple cords. CATASTROPHE! I ran upstairs as quickly as possible to pretreat my stains. (Please God dont let my purple cords be stained). I threw the cords in the washer and left the white shirt soaking in the sink and then picked out another outfit.
By this time, it was much past the time I was supposed to leave for work. Aaaand, I was supposed to be in early today.
Just so we're all aware of my priorities, even though I was running late, I still stopped off at Bruegger's for my Tuesday bagel. With such a bad bad start to the morning, I desperately needed my bagel. On my way in, I imagined that they were all out of plain bagels and plain cream cheese... and then I had a nervous breakdown. Lucky for all, The Bagel Guy fixed me a bagel and I knew my day was on its way up.
Proof of that, my boss boss is running late, and I cant do the work I need to do until she arrives. And that is why I am sharing my morning with you.

2005-05-20T15:11:00.000-04:00

It Makes Me Feel So Good To Always Tell You When You're Wrong

The winners are: (drum roll please)
Tuxedo Pie (with 5 votes)
Strawberry Cream Cake (with 4 votes) and
White Chocolate Berry Pie (also, with 4 votes)

Well done and thanks for voting.
They're all yummy recipes, so I'll probably try them each once at some point this summer. But I'll be baking those three Monday night (after I buy a pie pan, since, sadly, the baker of all bakers doesnt own one) in hopes of serving them to a great group of friends on Tuesday.

That is all.

2005-05-18T10:24:00.000-04:00

Just Pay Me Back With One Thousand Kisses

Today is the calm before the storm at work for me. Summer Session starts tomorrow, and I have a long list of things to do... but they cant be done till 8am tomorrow.
So, I'm taking some time to look up some dessert recipes for an upcoming party I have to go to. I'll be bringing three desserts. Want to help me decide? Its a cookout, so I thought some yummy cold, cool whippy, possibly berryness desserts would be good.

Stawberry Cream Cake
Raspberry Summer Sensation
Tuxedo Pie
Strawberry Margarita Squares
White Chocolate Berry Pie
Sweet As Kisses Pie

Vote for your top three choices and thats what I'll make. Unfortunately, the majority of you wont have the opportunity to eat them...

2005-05-16T10:23:00.000-04:00

It's My Favorite Part, Because, You'll See

She's done it again! I've survived another weekend with The Girls. It seemed easier than last time (for me), but that might have been because I had more of an idea of what to expect. And they didnt throw me for any loops (luckily).
Friday was super easy, I picked them up from The Kelley's, we got Wendy's (free frostys!) and then it was bathtime and bedtime.
Saturday we spent the whole day at The Zoo. Like I said before, lots of walking. But the day was nice, the sun wasnt too hot, and The Girls seemed to have a good time. Like The Steve, I expected much more pure joy and excitement from The Girls over seeing the animals. I was freaking out about the polar bears all up in my face... and they just sort of stood there. Maybe they were stunned, maybe it was too much for them to take in. The polar bears rocked, though. They were definitely my favorite part.
Because it was International Migratory Bird Day, there were a few stations set up near the aviary with information about birds. Kyra really seemed to enjoy these education stations, while I found them entirely boring. Being the proud pseudo-mom that I am, I used that time to show off Kyra's exceptional bird knowledge.
One woman asked "How do you know so many birds?" and Kyra answered, as simply as possible: "I'm a bird watcher." Duh.
But there were certainly some pretty birds to watch. Including a lovely purple bird that refused to let us take a picture of it. It was an Amethyst Starling. Widely known for being camera shy. If anyone is going to be in Africa soon, you can definitely bring me back an Amethyst Starling. That would be a lovely gift.
The Girls were completely worn out by 4pm, so we headed back home after the giraffes. Lucky for me, there were no hippopotamuses at this zoo. And we walked straight by the rhinoceroses, because I'm pretty sure if a hippo doesnt eat children, a rhino will.
Sunday was pretty normal. Up and ready for church, church then lunch. After lunch Steve watched Beauty and the Beast with The Girls while I enjoyed some much needed time with Sylvester and my garden tub. After my bath, I took the girls to Barnes & Noble. We hung out there for awhile, browsing the childrens books and eventually making a few purchases. (How can I resist girls wanting books?)
Sunday ended at The Girls house, as I put them to bed in their own beds. They prayed that they would get to spend more time with "Miss Sabrina" soon, and that made me happy.
Whereas I'm still not ready to have my own, nonreturnable, 5 and 7 year old, I definitely enjoyed getting in some practice time with The Girls.
Oh, and here are some pictures from The Zoo!

2005-05-13T14:12:00.000-04:00

Voices Crying Out In Desperation

Remember in January when I watched The Girls for the whole entire weekend? I'm doing it again. I pick them up tonight and have them till about 10pm on Sunday.
I'm confident, though. I can handle this.
Tomorrow we're going to The Zoo. Only God knows why I thought spending an entire day outside, WHILE being mom-like, would be a good idea. Nah, it should be fun. I havent been to a zoo in ages and I've heard very good things about this one. However, the map says its a 1.7 mile walk one way. With hills and stuff. Hopefully there wont be too much whining (from me). I'm packing water and snacks (for me or The Girls?) and The Steve will be joining us. One big happy family style. And hopefully a hippopotamus doesnt eat one of The Girls.
"Curtis, Rachel... uh... yeah... a hippo ate Meg."
Wish me luck.

2005-05-12T14:00:00.000-04:00

A Tisket, A Tasket

I love making baskets!! Gift baskets, that is. (We're not talking underwater basket weaving, here). Over the past few years, with friends getting married and other various celebrations, I've found that making my own gift basket is the best route. It's personal, its thematic (who doesnt like a good theme?) and its basket can be used later for storage! For some reason, its incredibly fun for me. And, I think I have a nack for it. Here are a few pictures of baskets I've done recently.
Slava's bridal shower picnic basket is filled with Pampered Chef products. All the bridesmaids went in on this gift together, so I got to order a ton of great stuff. This is definitely my favorite basket.

This basket was quickly put together for my friend Angie's bridal shower. The purple towels were on her registry, and I couldnt resist! I highly advocate a little purple in every home (and a lot of purple in my own).

Last night I threw this basket together. Curtis and Rachel are driving ALL the way to Canada today. That's a long drive. So, I got together some yummy snacks, a hand held poker game and some good crossword puzzle magazines. Hopefully it'll make their drive a smidge more delightful.

I dont have any pictures to prove it... but for the past three years I've done a basket for my dad and his wife, Rose. Both their birthdays AND their anniversary fall within the same week. Thats a lot of present buying. So, I got smart one year and decided to give them a movie basket. I got a couple of dvds, popcorn, my dad's favorite movie candy (good & plentys, twizzlers, dots) and maybe a nice candle, or throw blanket or whatever. After the first year, I realized I could never top such a gift. So, now it's the annual movie basket.
So, besides the fact that gift giving is most definitely the way I show love, gift baskets must really mean I love you. And they're so much fun!

2005-05-09T14:08:00.000-04:00

But You Look Confused

Thanks to Christin for this link. What a great way to waste the day. Everyone needs their own Super Hero. (Especially with the rising coolness of things like comic books (eh hem, graphic novels, please)). For every girl that wishes she could be Little Miss Vixen... your time has come.
And here's Super Sabrina. Dont let the purpleness hypnotize you.

2005-05-06T14:55:00.000-04:00

And I Can't Help Falling In Love With You

Ohhhhh yeeeeah. My second chance is here. And nothing, NOTHING, will stop me. Michael Buble' is here again. I would give... like, anything, name it, to see him in concert.
If you'd like to join me, let me know. It'll be July 16th, in Greensboro. Tickets are somewhat pricey cause he's all famous now (that's what happens after you're on Letterman). But it's worth every penny. And more. Much much more.
The Steve will not be going with me. I wouldnt torture him like that. But my brother might be in town, so he'll join me, cause he's the one that actually brought it to my attention (and it's better than me taking him to a My Chemical Romance concert). And, of course, my wonderful officemate Beth Ann will be with me. She's the only one that understands my love for Michael Buble.
Note to Husband: You may not, in any way, say something mean about Michael Buble on your blog. If you do, you will be sleeping here. Forever.

2005-05-05T09:10:00.000-04:00

I Can't Do This All On My Own, I'm No Superman

I dont know if you've noticed... but there's been a recent rise on television of "geeky" characters. Over the past few years, TV has added characters (whether leading or supporting) that are just plain geeks. Let me stop and define what I mean by "geek." Dictionary.com defines 'Geek' as "a. A person regarded as foolish, inept, or clumsy." I'll see that definition and raise it... cause I'm talking about the kind of character that has this loveable quality about him. The kind of guy that has such an innocence about him. The kind of guy that crushes hard on the pretty girl, but cant seem to get a full sentence out around her. And because he's so cute and lovable (yet slightly annoying), all you want is for him to have the pretty girl. This character makes you laugh and smile, and warms your heart. He's proof that not all guys are jack asses. He's also proof to the average Joe that you dont have to be tall, dark and handsome to get that pretty girl. He gives us all hope.
My 4 top examples of these characters are:
Seth Cohen (The OC)

In Season 1, Seth definitely had this adorable geeky quality to him. And what were the odds that two girls would find him so endearing. But then he got selfish, and yet we still loved him dearly (though not as much). I'm hoping he's on his way out of this selfish slump and that he'll go back to his roots... "Open your mind here, Dad. This isn't me we're talking about. With Ryan here, we have a chance to have a real athlete in the family. Somebody to achieve all that your Jewishness has prevented me from accomplishing. Hey, I always wanted to play soccer."

Marshall Flinkman (Alias)

Who doesnt love Marshall? He's the only real comic humor on Alias. But we all love his passion for the gadgets he invents, and how giddy he gets over certain things. I was so glad that he got the girl he wanted and now Marshall is a daddy. How cute! "Looks like a normal phone that you'd call. Hi, you want to go out on Friday? No? Okay. That's fine."

JD (Scrubs)

I feel like it's a stretch to classify JD with the rest of these geeks. But he certainly does have that goofy silly quality that you cant help but like. "Look, muffin, I'm not gonna run around this hospital like the rest of you mindless drones trying to turn the sniffles into something fascinating just so you can go to some stupid conference.... Schmonference." J.D.'s Thoughts: "It's fun to rhyme!"

George O'Malley (Grey's Anatomy)

George is the newest geek on the block, and currently, the most loveable. He has a biiig crush on his coworker/roommate and he's just too cute about it. All you want is for him to be happy and for the meanie interns to stop picking on him. "The only person that can keep a promise so big is God, and you don't see him operating on people." (the only quote I could find).
If you're not watching Grey's Anatomy, you should. I've said that about shows before, and those that listened to me have not regretted it. (except for the fact that I've added a few more hours of tv to their weekly viewing schedule).

And speaking of lovable geeks... my husband has started his own blog. You can read it, but you are not allowed to enjoy it more than mine.

2005-05-03T09:32:00.000-04:00

But Things Just Get So Crazy, Living Life Gets Hard To Do

I received something in the mail yesterday that just made me laugh. It was an 8 page, full color insert advertising "The Church Supper Cookbook." It boasts "Your dish will disappear first, guaranteed!" and claims to offer "400 hard-to-find, impossible-to-beat, classic church supper recipes!" And for no additional charge, they'll toss in "The Church Ladies' Divine Desserts."
I'm not sure what I found so funny about this. Someone must have known what a sucker I am for cookbooks. I have quite a few Martha Stewart cookbooks (recipes I've never had the guts to try) because they said I could try it for a month and return it if I didnt like it. Like I'm gonna go to the post office and mail back a pretty cookbook.
Not this time Church Supper People. I know what you're trying to do. I'm smarter than that now. I even looked up your book online and found it for half the price of what you want me to pay. Four easy installments of $7.49 my ass. I'll find the "Never-fail Scripture Cake" somewhere else, thank you very much.
It's still funny though. Especially the back page that reminds me of good ol' Commandment 11 "Don't Covet They Neighbor's Best Recipes..."

On a completely seperate note... I watched a great episode of Gilmore Girls last night. I have to explain a lovely bit of dialogue to you.
Paris returns from a weekend away to find her boyfriend laying in her bed, very very sick. He expects her to nurse him back to health, but instead, she disappears and returns with Nanny to care for him.
Rory: Why arent you taking care of him?
Paris: Sick people freak me out.
Rory: You're pre-med!

Laugh. It's funny.

2005-04-29T13:40:00.000-04:00

See You In My Dreams

Dreams really do come true, folks. I am living proof.
Today, as part of my MOH duties (which I take very very seriously), I got to taste test cake at Mad Hatters. Now, we already know how much I love Mad Hatters. They have the most scrumptious cakes and cookies. No doubt. But to taste all the different flavors and fillings... for free? Dream. Come. True.
I was so excited, though, that I forgot to take pictures of it all. Sorry.
The head baker, Jason (I think), was a very cool guy. And he knew his stuff (as well as his preferences). He pretty much told us he could do anything. And I believe him. Angela and JJ got a steal on the price of the cake, which is awesome.
Then he brought the plate of cake. Mmmm. White cake, chocolate cake, whipped icing, buttercream icing, chocolate buttercream icing, cream cheese icing, strawberry and raspberry fillings, chocolate moose. And it was all so very very good. Heavenly.
They decided on the cake... 4 tiers, each one being a different flavor. And I will be having one of each. You betcha. Cause I'm the MOH.
I got to take a slice of cake home too... my favorite Mad Hatter Cake. Have a look. And then drool... lust... tell me you hate me. I have cake and you do not. Mmmm cake.

2005-04-27T08:57:00.000-04:00

Meet Me At The Bleachers

One of my favorite things to do is read the "Missed Connections" ads in The Independent Weekly (a local paper). The ad I read this morning surpasses all others.
"FUNGAL DIVA - Talked to you at Durham Bar. Your conversations about dental hygiene and eye fungus were fascinating and knowledgable. Take your antibiotics, and call me when you heal."
Priceless.

2005-04-26T16:04:00.000-04:00

Look Me In The Eye And Tell Me You Don't Find Me Attractive

I finally "bought" my three free iTunes songs.
You should buy them too.
1. "Where Does the Good Go?" by Tegan & Sara
2. "You Are My Joy" by Reindeer Section
3. "Hollaback Girl" by Gwen Stefani

The first two songs were heard on "Grey's Anatomy," which is a great new show I'm enjoying.
And, well, we all know Gwen. I wasnt a big fan of her first two singles, but I greatly enjoy this song (probably because good old Pharrell helped her out).
Yay for new songs.

2005-04-22T08:05:00.000-04:00

My Darling

Gotta love surveys. Here's one I stole from Christin.

15 years ago, I...
1. Was adjusting to living in Florida. (okay, I never really did adjust).
2. Watched my parents get divorced.
3. Tried out for The Mickey Mouse Club.
4. Rode my bike to school for the first time.
5. Had a baby box turtle named Raboine (after the teacher that gave it to me).

10 years ago, I...
1. Was in The King and I.
2. Had a huuuuge crush on Dusty West. And Randy Rosen. And I'm sure there were more.
3. Was subpoenaed for the first time.
4. Attended my first summer at Duke Young Writers Camp.
5. Started attending Calvary Baptist Church youth group.

5 years ago, I...
1. Got kicked out of the RA Program at Liberty.
2. Eloped.
3. Rented my first apartment.
4. Bought my first cat, Keeley.
5. Started my senior year at Liberty.

2 years ago, I...
1. Became a Creative Memories Consultant.
2. Got seriously involved at newhope church.
3. Cant think of anything else...

1 year ago, I...
1. Bought a house!
2. Took my cat, Cooper, to the vet for swallowing 6 feet of string on Christmas Eve.
3. Met Curtis, Rachel and The Girls.
4. Hosted a Murder Mystery Party.
5. Was the MOH in Slava's wedding.

This year, I...
1. Watched The Girls for an entire weekend.
2. Went to Creative Memories Regional Convention in Charlotte.
3. Will be the MOH in Angela's wedding.
4. Lost my Uncle Jimmy.
5. Joined a gym (with the intention of working out regularly).

Yesterday, I...
1. Woke up early for a 7am Fitness Consultation.
2. Got a parking ticket.
3. Had lunch with Baby Chase, Marissa and Marissa's mom.
4. Ordered flowers for my officemate, Beth Ann, who's beloved dog, Tallulah, passed away.
5. Went Krogering at 9:58pm.

Today, I...
1. Thank God it's Friday.
2. Did not have a bagel.
3. Am currently suffereing Friday Bagel Day withdrawals.
4. Understand that's not as bad as Beth Ann's nicotine withdrawals (with the death of her dog, she's decided to give up smoking... grief apparently makes breaking an addiction easier...)
5. Am having an Art Party tonight.

5 People I Like to Be Around (in no particular order)...
1. I feel obligated to say The Steve (but he's well aware that some days... I do not like to be around him).
2. The Girls
3. I love to be around all my friends from newhope... I cant just pick one.
4. My brother
5. Slava

5 TV Shows I Like (just five?!)
1. The OC
2. Grey's Anatomy
3. Lost
4. Alias
5. Gilmore Girls, Everwood, One Tree Hill, Scrubs, The Office, Desperate Housewives, Jake in Progress, ER, Joan of Arcadia, The Daily Show, Ellen. (there, I knew I could do just five!)

5 Places I've Lived
1. Brooklyn, NY
2. Melbourne, FL
3. Satellite Beach, FL
4. Lynchburg, VA
5. Durham, NC

2005-04-21T13:57:00.000-04:00

My Love Don't Cost A Thing

Today, I had lunch with this Cutie Pie.

How super cute is he? I had lunch with his mom and grandma too... and no offense to them, but he was definitely the cutest one there.

2005-04-20T09:21:00.000-04:00

I Give My World To You

This morning, I had a major moral dilemma. (Hmm, I've never tried to spell dilemma before. It's kinda fun. Dilemma. Dilemmmmma. Dilemmmmaaaaaaaaaaah). Okay, I'm done.
So, yesterday, I told my boss (my very nice boss) that I had to go to the computer lab in the morning to install the google toolbar on all the computers. I figured I'd get that done, and then leave straight from the labs to my doctor's appointment. My appointment is at 11am, but it's allll the way in Cary, so I figured I'd be leaving around 10:15 for that. Basically I was just letting her know she wouldnt see me till after lunch. She was fine with that.
I already fudged a little. I decided to sleep in a bit, get ready at my leisure, do a few things around the house, and I got to the computer lab at 8:45am. (I'm normally in at 8(ish)). That wasnt that big of a deal. When I got the labs, there was a class about to start at 9. Silly Sabrina forgot to check the schedule. However, the teacher, was kind enough to let me spend 15 minutes before the class doing was I needed to do. And, since installing the google toolbar is super easy, I got all the computers done by 9.
Now, here is where the real dilemma took place. My boss knows I wont be in till after lunch. Yet I have an hour and 15 minutes before I need to leave for my appointment. Do I A) Go back to work and spend that time doing nothing at my desk or B) Go to Target and buy a bridal shower present for the shower I'll be attending on Saturday. Target would definitely be better time spent, especially considering that I'm completely booked until Saturday and dont know when else I'll fit in some shopping time.
Yet, here I am, at my desk, blogging. Not at Target.
I did compromise a little... rewarding myself for making the "right" decision. I stopped by Mad Hatters on the way to my office and picked up a scrumptious black and white cookie and a cute purple flower cookie.
Btw, check it out, my flip flops match my shirt today. How awesome is that? Thank you Old Navy.

2005-04-19T15:18:00.000-04:00

You Don't Own Me

I've been working hard (kinda) on purplesabrina.com
I just want it to be perfect.
When it does launch, I want to be ready for the masses. I'm talking press junkets, talk show spots (especially Ellen), the works. Most importantly, my own t-shirt. So, I've taken the time to design a few, and you, my faithful audience, get to vote. I'm a simple gal, and when it comes to advertising, I prefer short, sweet and to the point.

Option 1

Option 2

Option 3

There they are. What do you think?

2005-04-18T10:37:00.000-04:00

I Can't Say Each Motive Is Holiness

Friday night, I went to a party for Curtis, my worship pastor at newhope church. The reason for the party was because Curtis is nominated for three Shai awards in Canada (where he moved from, just a year ago). The Shai awards are pretty much the equivalent of the American Dove Awards. He's nominated for Best Male Artist of the Year, Best Inspirational Album and Best Worship Album. You can check him out at curtismulder.com
He rocks, thats for sure.
And because he's almost famous, his wife, my great friend Rachel, thought he should have a party. I got there pretty late, so I missed most of the fun. But I did get my picture taken with the Curtis Cardboard Cutout. Rachel, through wonderful newhope connections, got a life sized cardboard cutout made of Curtis as a surprise. It was awesome.
Here we are.

2005-04-15T11:35:00.000-04:00

Everywhere I Go

Last night, I talked on the phone with my brother. I try not to lecture him... talk down to him or anything. But, I dont hold back any words of wisdom either.
He was talking about Amp... a lovely energy beverage made by Moutain Dew. He drinks this beverage as often as he can get his hands on one. Not for any real reason but the buzz he gets from drinking it. Not cause he needs to stay up late studying for a test, that's for sure. Just cause. (Just cause we're outlaws, yeah).
He hasn't had one in a week or so... and he's very very tyerd. Of course, I insist that maybe if he got a regular amount of sleep, on a regular basis, he wouldnt be so tyerd. But what do I know? He just needs an Amp. Maybe two.
Then we got on the subject of addictions. The conversation went like this.
"You shouldn't be addicted to anything, though."
"Well, it could be worse. I could be on drugs."
"Right, yeah. Drugs are bad. We know that. But really, it doesnt matter what you're addicted to. All addictions are bad for you."
"What if I was addicted to school work?" (Smart ass. I must have taught him that).
"Ha! Highly unlikely. Buuut, even that, if you really truly are addicted to it... not so good. Cause an addiction means that something takes control of you. And no matter what it is, you should always be in control. That's all I'm saying."
"Why do you have to be so smart about things?"
"I just am."

2005-04-14T14:01:00.000-04:00

All I Need Is Your Monthly Bonus For A Wooden Walrus

Last night, The Steve and I hung out with JJ & Angela. JJ & Angela are getting married July 9th. I'm Angela's MOH. By default, apparently. But whatever, I'm still honored.
Angela made yummy steak and potatoes and after that we spent some time looking at wedding cakes. Soon I'll get to join them for cake tasting. Mmmmm cake. They are getting their cake from one of my very favorite bakeries Mad Hatter's Mmmm cake.
After browsing cake pictures (which Angela seemed to have much less patience for than me)... they had their first dance lesson. That's right, The Steve (a fabulous dancer) was recruited to help JJ and Angela get the hang of dancing to their wedding song. All I Need, by Sara Groves (though at the reception, it'll be sung by the oh so talented Curtis and Rachel). JJ started off a little rocky, but I think he made excellent progress. He'll certainly need to be practicing for the next 86 days, till he can dance like Fred Astaire in his sleep. But, for a first lesson, I think he did mighty well. We didnt concentrate so much on Angela's dancing skills... this lesson was more about how to be a good leader.
And here are some pictures for your entertainment. Angela was forbidden... but JJ has no such control over me. Muh ha ha.

The Feet of JJ & Angela. By this point, they had gotten past stepping on each others toes.

The Steve teaching JJ how to "ball change." Which for both of us, wasnt easy to teach, since we learned it when we were three.

Me and JJ dancing.

The Steve spinning Angela.

JJ and Angela dancing. (can you see how much JJ is concentrating on the count?)

It was a fun night... I greatly enjoy being twirled around by my sweet husband.

2005-04-13T10:22:00.000-04:00

We Rarely Practice Discern

I wanted to post these pictures yesterday, but Blogger was down when I tried.
I feel like my cats havent been getting enough blog time lately. Time to make up for that. Forgive me Cooper, and stop eating my hair at 4am. Forgive me Belle, and start using the litterbox like a normal cat.

2005-04-11T09:33:00.000-04:00

If My Memory Serves Me Right

I got a chain letter.
Well, not a typical chain letter. Not the "Send this letter to ten people or bad bad things will happen."
It's a Recipe Tree. You send your letter to six people, those six people send their letter out to six people, and those 36 people send you a recipe.
Years ago I got one like that, only it was for underwear. I wasnt keen on receiving underwear from strangers. Dont know why.
I have three spots available. If you'd like to be part of my recipe tree, let me know. As long as you promise to send yours out to six responsible friends that will send me yummy recipes. (preferably for cake).

2005-04-08T10:15:00.000-04:00

I Only Want To Be Where You Are

Just thought I'd let you inside Sabrina's brain for a minute. My thought yesterday went like this: "I should go to the gym Saturday morning before I meet up with Rachel... yeah... Oooooo! If I go to the gym then I can stop off at Mad Hatter's for a super yummy piece of cake! Mmmm cake."
Yep.

2005-04-07T13:38:00.000-04:00

To The Ballgame

Update:
One thing I left out about Uncle Jimmy was his love for the Yankees. Which was always fun growing up, cause my dad was a Mets fan.
So, next month, we're going to Yankee Stadium to celebrate Uncle Jimmy. I've never been to Yankee Stadium, so that alone is exciting. But I cant think of a better place to pay tribute to Uncle Jimmy.

2005-04-07T11:08:00.000-04:00

And A Cross Of Gold

My Uncle Jimmy passed away yesterday. He had been in the hospital for almost three weeks, suffering from a really bad infection that his body just couldnt fight. Maybe two years ago he was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver from a lifetime (certainly my whole life) of being an alcoholic. It was because of the bad condition of his liver that he couldnt fight a silly infection. He was 45 years old, I think. The youngest sibling on my dad's side. He was my godfather. He was my dad'd best man at his wedding(s).
Almost everyone has asked me if we were close. It's proven to be a tough question to answer. I always struggle with what "closeness" means when it comes to my family. I feel like they don't know me at all. Heck, the people who read my blog know me better than my family does. I'm sure it's partly my fault... I feel like they wouldnt understand me, get me, like me. That I wouldnt measure up to their expectations. Whatever, not the point right now.
No, we werent close. But he was a big part of my life. He was always there. He was at every family function (drunk, of course). He and my dad lived together for most of my teenage years, so when my dad got me for the weekend, Uncle Jimmy got me too. He used to save up all his change and give it to me to roll. And after I would roll it, and tell him how much money was there, he'd let me keep it. He bought me a cameo necklace from the Home Shopping Network because I mentioned it was pretty. He wanted to name his dog DeeOhGee. He played chess with my husband. He had a Lucky Irish tattoo, and for most of his life thought he wasnt Irish.
In thinking about his life, I can only speculate how he felt at the end of it. Seems to me that for the majority of his life, he probably felt lonely and meaningless. He didnt have any major accomplishments to speak of, he didnt have any sucessful love stories, he wasnt leaving behind a legacy. So, I pray that his death will accomplish great things. Let his death bring my family closer together (like really closer), closer to God too. Let his death teach my brother that alcoholism, though it provides temporary relief from life, makes life end brutally and a lot sooner than it should.
Here are a couple of pictures I found of my Uncle Jimmy.

When I was young, our whole family would spend the night at our house on Christmas Eve. Here's Uncle Jimmy sleeping on the couch. There's his Lucky Irish tattoo.

Here's me and Uncle Jimmy at my high school graduation.

That's my family. I was probably 15 in that picture. Bottom row: Aunt Debbie, Uncle Jimmy, Cousin Jen, Cousin Allison and Me. Second row: Cousin Chris, Aunt Alice, Aunt Judy. Hiding in the back: Aunt Patty, Tom (Aunt Patty's boyfriend) and my Dad.

This is how I remember Uncle Jimmy the most. A happy smile, popping into pictures and annoying people by being funny when they were trying to be serious.

The best man in the burgundy tux is Uncle Jimmy. He's really young there, huh? The bride and groom are my parents. :) The maid of honor is Aunt Debbie. 1977, baby.

Sorry this entry is sad, and long. But it's my blog and I can write whatever I want. Thanks for listening.

2005-04-06T15:02:00.000-04:00

Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You

I dont know why I took this silly quiz... other than it helped in procrastinating whatever it is I should be doing.

Take the quiz at dicepool.com
You are a good old-fashioned six-sided cube, otherwise known as a d6. Others know you to be plain, predictable, conservative, average, ordinary, and downright boring. You prefer to describe yourself as dependable, honest, practical and trustworthy. People usually know what to expect from you, since you rarely hold any surprises. You hate to make decisions, and if forced to decide, you'll always fall back on how it was done in the past. You always order the same thing at your favorite restaurant, and your jokes, while funny, are never too offensive. It seems that you are well liked, but maybe that's simply because there's nothing to hate.
Interesting.

2005-04-05T13:58:00.000-04:00

Don't Give Up On Me

First. Go HERE. Watch the cute little lemurs. But take specific note of the most important part... the second picture and its caption. Eeeeeeeeeeee. Sabrina the Baby Aye Aye!!! How friggin cool is that? You can bet your ass I'll be visiting the Primate Center soon. Feel free to join me. That place rocks.
Second. I have some questions to answer. Angela interviewed me. Here it goes.
1. You and The Steve have known each other your whole lives. Was there a pivotal turning point where you went "Ooooooh I wanna marry HIM!"? If yes, what was it, if no, then how'd it happen?
Well, we didnt start dating till we were seniors in high school. A couple of months into our relationship, we were at the mall. We had just come out of a pet store where we were both playing with the cage full of kittens and completely ignoring the dogs. After spending time with the kittens, and expressing our love for cats, The Steve said something like "Well, good, we'll have a cat." That was it. But with that, I knew he was thinking about our future, and in that future, we'd have a cat.
2. As a kid what did you wanna be when you grew up? If you're not what you wanted to be, do you see yourself being what you wanted to be when you grew up?
There were two occupations I focused on as a child. I was either going to be a prima ballerina or a novelist. I dropped the ballerina idea when I was about 10. I stuck with the novelist idea all the way through college. Once I got married, I stopped writing. (I hope the two arent related, thats just when it happened). I still dream of being a novelist, I'm just stuck with a reaaally long writer's block.
3.What's your favorite TV show EVER - including past and present (and I know you're a TV connesieur so if you have to you can pick 2) and why?
My favorite TV show EVER is "Mad About You." It makes me laugh. No matter how many times I watch an episode. That show definitely helped me prepare for marriage in not taking everything so seriously.
4. What's been your favorite thing about your new house and why?
Hmmmm. It's a toss up between my kitchen and being able to paint rooms. I've been wanting to paint forever, and its been so nice to see my ideas come alive. My kitchen is just the most fabulous place ever. I love the stripes, the countertops, the cabinets, the fridge.... I love that its big enough for friends to hang out around the island.
5. What do you consider your greatest quality? Greatest weakness?
My senior year in high school, my yearbook advisor gave me an award. I know he made it up. It was the "Eye of the Hurricane" award. Mostly because in the high stress world of High School, where I was managing editor of both the Yearbook and Newspaper, I was always Cool, Calm and Collected. I rarely ever stress out, I'm most always rational, and I get the job done. I have lots of weaknesses. Today I'll say its that I have a terrible time making decisions for myself. Decisions for other people, no problem! My own decisions? Well, I've had three free iTunes caps for a month now, and I cant decide what songs to get.
That's it for the questions. Thanks Angela!

2005-04-04T09:29:00.000-04:00

Worn Me Down Like The Road

I'm alive!! I made it through! People at work thought I had Whooping Cough, because my boss confused that with Croup while telling everyone how sick I was. Crazy boss. Really, I had Parainfluenza. A lovely flu that seemed to manifest itself in EVERY possible symptom. Really, you name it, I had it. Luckily not at the same time, otherwise I would have been dead. But every other day, I had a new symptom and the other one was gone. Odd. You'd think, after being so ill, I'd be signing up for next years flu shot. But no. No freakin way.
But I know you missed me. How could you not?
This morning, one of my coworkers, the lovely British Anne, brought me a book she found while going through some boxes in her attic. It's titled "Sabrina." No joke. She owned the book before she even knew me. Freeeaky. Not really.
But I'd like to read you this book. It's a little kids book. It was published in 1971.
So, gather round. Sabrina's gonna read you a story.
"Sabrina.
It was the first day of school, and Sabrina was very excited! As the teacher called the names of the children, each one answered, 'Here.'
When she called Sabrina's name,
everyone turned to look at her. (Uh oh)
Two girls were whispering, and she heard them say her name. (Bitches)
She couldn't wait for school to be over. She wasn't having any fun after all.
Her name was not like the others. There were three Michaels and two Lisas and two Susans, a David and an Amy. But no one had a strange name like Sabrina. (hmmm)
She was so unhappy she wanted to cry.
I'll never come back, she thought. I hate this school and everyone in it. (whoa, overreact much?)
I'll change my name to Susan or Lisa and go to another school.
And when I have my birthday party, I'll only invite my new friends. (birthdays are important).
Sabrina waited until nap time when everyone was asleep (including the teacher, apparently)."
(Then we have a few pages without any writing. It shows Sabrina leaving the school, she's walking down the sidewalk, passing a man and woman on a motorcycle, a guy in a funny looking car, a truck with a horse, pig and some other animal, maybe a donkey? None of these things seem to satisfy her, cause on the next page she's heading back to the school. She stands outside the door, using the bottom of her dress to whipe her tears. A little boy inside the classroom spots her.
"'Oh Sabrina, we have been looking everywhere for you! What's the matter?' 'Miss Potter, I don't want my name to be Sabrina anymore. I want to be called Susan.'
'Then I want to be Sabrina.' 'Me too.' (This is said by two girls, apparently twins since they look exactly the same).
'No, Susan, I said it first.'
'Listen, Amy, she chose my name, so I should get hers.'
'I want that princess name!' 'No, I want it!'
'Now, girls, why don't we let Sabrina settle this?' (Since she started it, and all)
'Well...'
'If you give me your name, you can play with my doll.' 'If you let me have it, you can ride my new bike.'
'Who said I wanted to give my name away?' (uh, you did?)
'Besides, who would be dumb enough to give away a beautiful name like Sabrina!'
The End."
Yep. That's the story of Sabrina. Now you know.

2005-03-23T08:31:00.000-05:00

Who Am I To Disagree?

I had the weirdest dream last night.
I was dropped off at home one night. A few of my friends were standing in the parking lot outside my house (but my real house doesnt have a parking lot). They were just chatting and hanging out by my car. I talked with them a bit and then went inside my house. As soon as I walked in, I noticed the vinyl flooring had been changed. But this was a good thing, at first, because I had been wanting to rip up the carpet in the foyer and replace it with vinyl. Except they got the color wrong. It was brown, not gray. And I was confused, cause even though I had wanted them to do this, I hadnt actually gone through the process of getting it together. Then I walked into the kitchen, and the flooring there was different too. I wasnt happy with that at all. And really confused. Why would they do this without my asking? Theeeen, I realized they had switched out my white cabinets for wooden ones. I wasnt happy at all! So, I stormed out of the house, through the parking lot where all my friends were hanging out and into the front office. The office was just like the waiting room from Beetlejuice. Yep. I walked around and finally found the person I needed. She was smoking and I was coughing as I asked her why they had replaced my cabinets and floor. She told me that someone famous was buying a place in the complex and they requested our stuff, so she gave it to them. I said "But that doesnt make any sense! At all!" And then I woke up.
Analyze that!

2005-03-21T14:58:00.000-05:00

Blossom On A Tree, You Know How I Feel

For lunch today I went to the lovely Mad Hatter's. I went for the cookies, cause their baked goods are the best, but since I feel guilty if I dont eat "food" before sweets, I got a kids pizza. Mind you, Mad Hatter's menu has all this healthy crazy stuff that I would never eat... a kids pizza was the only thing on the menu that appealed to me.
But here's how it was served to me:

How cute is that? A cute little pizza (Sabrina sized) and a cute little cookie on a cute little flower plate.
I also got these super cute cookies to go.

Everything is so springy, I love it. I hope the weather stays like this. No more teasing.
In other news, Sylvester and I have officially joined a gym. Before lunch at Mad Hatter's, I stopped by the East Campus Gym to give it a once over. New treadmills? Check. Weight machines that seem not complicated? Check. An indoor pool I'll probably never swim in? Check. A nice man at the door that buzzes me in? Check. Cheapest gym in Durham? Check. Tonight Sylvester and I will work on the Bootylicious playlist. Expect complaints of how sore I am starting next week.

2005-03-16T10:22:00.000-05:00

I'll Tell You Something

I bring you Wing!
Really, music doesnt get any better than this, folks.
I highly recommend listening to a few of her samples... My favorites would be 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' and 'I Do'.
Just think, for only $3.95 you can join the Wing fan club. So worth it.

2005-03-15T10:02:00.000-05:00

I Wanna Get Physical

I was serious when I said I might start working out. I know you doubted me. So, last night, me, Sylvester and my coupon went to Spa Health Club. We were all pretty excited. Even the coupon (fulfilling his purpose and all). The woman took my coupon and and handed me a form to fill out. She told me to have a seat on the couch. Then our conversation went like this:
"Hey, do you work at Duke?"
Go Duke! "Yes, I do!"
"Yeah, you cant use this coupon."
"Huh?"
"It's only for potential members."
"But I might be a member, thats why I'm checking the place out."
"Right. A regular member, not paying Duke prices."
You've got to be kidding. I just sat there, not knowing what to do at that point.
Finally she said "I guess you can stay for tonight, since you're here."
How kind of you. "Can someone show me around?"
"Well, we're kinda short staffed right now." She pointed out the lockers and where the weight machines were (which we were standing in the middle of, so it was pretty obvious). I kinda tuned her out cause I felt so... rejected.
The thing is, I reaaaallly wanted to work out. So, I put my stuff in an empty locker (#22) and Sylvester and I went upstairs to the treadmills. Two were out of order and the rest were taken. Great. The only cardio I can actually stand, and they're taken. I even went as far as to hop on a bike, but I couldnt figure out how to get it started. At that point, I was officially defeated. I threw in my towel and went home for a nice long bath.
But I'm not giving up! Oh no! (I've got to keep on mooovin... la la la). My wonderful officemate Beth Ann works out at the Duke East Campus Gym. So, I grilled her about the gym this morning. She says its nice, small, and convenient. And the majority of the people that work out there are cute little happy Duke freshman. Which could do one of two things... encourage me to work out till I look like I'm 18 again, or depress me to no end. We'll see. I think I'll give it a try on Thursday. It's also 10 bucks cheaper than stupid Spa Health Club.

2005-03-14T15:15:00.000-05:00

I'm Gonna Be A Super Model

In efforts to increase my picture taking skills, specifically, the self portrait... my fabulous friend Christin gave me an assignment. And here is the outcome.

"Sabrina after staff meeting"

"Sabrina deciding between Eggs All The Way or Grilled Cheese at Elmo's"

"Sabrina's first lick of the cute purple bunny lollypop from coworker"

"Sabrina discovering purple bunny lollypop tastes like Robitussin"

"Sabrina with McDonald's onion breath"

"Sabrina giggling cause she just tried to smell her own breath"

"Sabrina confused by Dreamweaver"

"Sabrina after sucessfully preparing Christin's wonderful recipe for Berry Cookie Cobbler"

2005-03-11T08:36:00.000-05:00

Getting To Hope You Like Me

Well done everyone! I know, I know, some of the questions were tricky... but they were fun, werent they?
Lets go over the answers.
1. I was born during what TV show? d. Mork & Mindy! Six people guessed Dukes of Hazzard, which is an excellent guess.
2. My parents DID NOT consider naming me: a. Tabitha! Eight people guessed Trolley, and I know. It's unbelievable. My dad was stuck on naming me Trolley if I was a boy and Kiddie if I was a girl because it went so well with my maiden name. He's a character. After I was born, during Mork and Mindy, he was very set on naming me Mindy. Good thing I wasnt a boy, or I might have been named Mork! Luckily my mom came to and decided to name me Sabrina.
3. My first husband's name was: c. Joey W.! Nine people guessed that it was Steve, which is a very good guess. But Kelli is absolutely right, on September 3, 2004 I even blogged about my first husband, Joey W. Pay attention people. Really.
4. My first real boyfriend's name was: a. Steve! But not the Steve I'm currently married to. "The First Steve" as we like to call him. I was sixteen.
5. Over the years I've had lots of pets... which name is NOT one of their names? c. Arthur! Growing up we had a dog named Brandi. My first office fishie was Dawson the fishie. He passed away. I'm now on my third office fishie, Pacey the fishie. At one point in my childhood I had 27 gerbils. Their names were A.J. through Z.J and Blackie.
6. I do NOT own which item of clothing? b. capri pants! I have yet to buy into the capri fad. Cant do it. Five people guessed that I didnt own a brown sweater. I do own it, it's just kinda itchy and I rarely wear it.
7. It's nice out today, so for my lunch break I will spend it: b. At Elmo's Diner, with Sylvester! It was a nice lunch date. I had a grilled cheese sandwhich and fries. Four people guessed that I was running errands, which is a mighty good guess, since thats what I had been doing every other day this week. I'm an errands machine!
8. My dream vacation would be: c. Geek Cruises: Baltic Blast MacMania 3.5! I'm dying to go on a cruise, and this one would be the perfect one for me. Not only will it involve all things Apple related but it will be cruising the Baltic, which means I'll get to be a world traveler like Sydney Bristow. Sydney Bristow always has business in the Baltic. Helsinki, Estonia, Moscow... oh yeah, Super Spy Sabrina. Bring it on. Almost everyone got this right. My brother, my poor wonderful brother, guessed that my dream vacation would be visiting my family in Florida. When I asked him to take the quiz, I had forgotten that I had put that as one of my "hell no" answers. Poor kid.
9. My car, my computer and my iPod all have names. What are they? d. Miles, Baxter and Sylvester. Way to go! Everyone got this one right.
10. My favorite shade of purple is: d. All shades of purple are created equal! Indeed.

Here are the final scores from my dear friends and family:
The Steve: 90 (which is what I got on his quiz).
Kelli: 80
Nick: 80
Rocksie: 70
Marissa: 60
Angela: 50
Christin: 50
JJ: 50
Jen: 40
My Brother: 40
Slava: 30
Rachel: 20

I'm giving 5 extra points to Kelli for being an excellent listener (or reader) and test taker. I'm very impressed.
Christin gets 5 points for knowing me for the shortest amount of time and still knowing me better than others.
My brother gets 5 points for being the best brother ever. And also cause I feel bad about the dream vacation question.
Slava gets 10 extra points for using the fact that she's a foreigner as the reason why she didnt get my questions. But she's right, I certainly wouldnt know what show was on in Ukraine in 1979, let alone how to pronounce it. But that's okay, cause I can say "Gorka!"

2005-03-10T12:28:00.000-05:00

Take The Time To Get To Know Me

Courtesy of Rachel (though I sadly only scored a 20 on her quiz), here is a quiz for you to take.
Take my Quiz on QuizYourFriends.com!
How well do you know me? Please post your score in my comments. Have fun!! No cheating either. (I dont know how you would... but I know some of you well enough to know you'd try).

2005-03-09T14:12:00.000-05:00

Baby, Can You Handle This?

Sylvester and I are thinking about joining a gym again. Well, it will be the third time I've joined a gym, and Sylvester's first time (which is probably why heee's so excited about it).
The first time I joined a gym was shortly after I got married. It worked out very well because The Steve worked nights at Circuit City. And when you're a newlywed, there's little point to being home in the evenings if you have no one to feed and sit on the couch watching TV with. I stuck with it and almost enjoyed my time there. I hate cardio, but I still walked fast on the treadmill for half an hour. I loooved the weight machines. They were most rewarding to me. I mean, who doesnt want a tight ass? I tried some step classes and what not, but I think I have a problem with overheating and I almost passed out once and just couldnt keep up with those crazy steppers. I did, however, enjoy the ab sculpting classes, its nice when someone else can count for you and say "Come on! Just five more!" Yep, working out was nice.
Then we moved to Durham. Shortly after we moved I looked into finding a new gym. I joined the closest gym to my house (in hopes that distance would make it easier to go). I even convinced The Steve to join with me. He probably lasted two weeks, and I only lasted a month, two at the most. I had lots of reasons, the equipment wasnt the same as the stuff from my last gym (and nobody there taught me how to use it), the instructors werent pleasant, the tvs were never on a good channel. But mostly, I was just too busy and I could never get a regular schedule with it. I wanted to work out religiously. But if you cant commit, whats the point?
Not much has changed since then. I'm still insanely busy (if not busier). But now I have Sylvester. Sylvester will encourage me to work out regularly with his masterful playlists.
And then, I got a mailer. And we all know mailers are signs from God. If a mailer got me to newhope then Spa Health Club was smart in sending me one. And this one even has a 7-days free coupon (one for me and one for a friend (but I dont think Sylvester counts as 'a friend'). Not only that, but I get a discount at this gym for being a Duke employee.
So maybe it's time.

2005-03-08T09:26:00.000-05:00

Are We, We Are

Check out my happy toes. I had a pedicure last night.
Too bad its hailing! out my window. Not exactly open toed-shoes weather.

2005-03-03T08:37:00.000-05:00

So Much For The City

A couple weeks ago I saw a cute dog somewhere and went "Awwww look at the cute puppy. Hello cute puppy!" The Steve said something back to me like "What are you doing? We're cat people."
It seems as though I have a new love for dogs. I wouldn't go as far as to say I'm a "dog person" but before this, I could care less about dogs. Now, I "awwwww" just about every time I see one. I still prefer cat-sized dogs and dont like to hang out with the larger variety... I think it's the fault of my next door neighbor's Pomeranian Tobey, as well as seeing cute pictures of Nick & Kelli's Dachshund Charlie. This morning, I spotted this picture on Sarah Lane's moblog. Now that is a super cute puppy. He's also featured here. Say it with me "awwwwww."

2005-03-02T13:44:00.000-05:00

I Wanna Go Back

At least I'm not this tyerd.

2005-02-28T16:08:00.000-05:00

And You Look Like One Too

This past weekend, my favorite aunt, Aunt Debbie came to visit. Aunt Debbie and I are kindred spirits. Out of all the members of my family, including my parents, I feel most connected to her. In fact at one point, growing up, I was convinced that I was her daughter, but she was too young when she had me, and too focused on her career, that she gave me to my parents to adopt. Yep. I'm crazy.
But Aunt Debbie is also my favorite aunt because she buys me things. And we know I love presents! Aunt Debbie, may have out done herself, though. Because now, I am the proud owner of Sylvester. Dont we look happy together? My very own iPod mini. So happy.
To add to that happiness. Steve got me this. A purple! peep! pillow! Dont you just want to hug it and love it and maybe even take a bite of it? Its not edible though. But its still very very cute!!
Yay for gifts!

2005-02-24T08:42:00.000-05:00

Hallelujah

Do you hear it? The sound of angels singing their praises? Why are they singing, you ask? Because of this.
Now you hear the angels, dont you?
I dont normally shop at Food Lion, but now maybe I should. Cheerwine sherbet? Someone's a genius for thinking that up.
Yummy yum.
Belle likes it too.

2005-02-23T09:59:00.000-05:00

I Wanna Stop, And Thank You, Baby

Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes. It turned out to be a pretty good day. It started off with The Steve's alarm going off before mine. In the dark, he handed me a small stack of unwrapped presents. I turned on the tv for a little light so that I could wake up and see my gifts. I got The Mad About You Collection DVD and Romeo and Juliet (Special Edition) as well as the very important Michael Buble's new CD He also obtained a copy of MacMame, a ROM emulator that will emulate my all time favorite video game, BurgerTime.
Before I was off to work, both my dad and my mom called. My dad to remind me that soon I'll be older than him, and my mom to make sure she was first to wish me a Happy Birthday (besides Steve). She wasnt first, my dad was... but I let her think she was anyway. No reason to ruin the day of the woman that gave me life.
When I got to work, there were brownies waiting for me and a card signed by all my co-workers. Anne had gotten me a lovely silver picture frame and Kristen got me a cute block with my initial on it.
Then, Nick and Kelli got me www.purplesabrina.com. That's right, they bought me a url. How awesome is that? It'll be a little bit before I launch it, but eventually you wont have to visit blogspot anymore... all you have to do is remember purplesabrina.com.
I had Chickfila for lunch. Nothing like some birthday chicken strips.
When I got home from work, Steve had another unwrapped gift for me. This was a memory card for my digital camera. Prior to this, I could only take 8 pictures on my camera. Now I can take 160! I'm a picture taking machine! See! 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
While I was running around taking pictures all night, Steve fixed me dinner. I also did some laundry (hence the bleach pen and the white shirt with the mysterious stain (it didnt work, I mourn)). Then we caught up on some TV. At some point my brother called to wish me a Happy Birthday, that was very sweet.
All in all, a lovely day.

2005-02-22T11:11:00.000-05:00

You Smell Like A Monkey

Happy Birthday to Me!

I wont be giving an account of the day until tomorrow, so hold your horses.
Today, I will give you a step by step, how to install your own padded headboard. You know you want to.

Step 1: If you are a girl, find boys to do the manual labor for you. If you are a boy, step up. Be a man.
Step 2: If you dont have power tools. Find a friend that does.
Step 3: Go to Lowe's or Home Depot and buy your materials. Materials for this project include wood, wood screws, wood glue and... I think thats it.
Step 4: Make your headboard. Sounds easy, doesnt it?
Step 5: Measure on the wall and try not to drill any holes in electrical wiring. But if you do...
Step 6: Take another trip to Home Depot for the supplies you'll need to patch the wire and the wall.
Step 7: While waiting for the wall to dry, start upholstering your headboard. (Picture time)
Step 8: On a nice sized table, lay out your fabric and layers of batting. lay the headboard face down. Begin stapling the batting to the back of the headboard. Like this.
Step 9: Next staple your fabric down. This was kind of tricky, trying to prevent the fabric from bunching or being pulled or being too tight or too loose. Luckily, staples can come out easily if you mess up. Here's what it will look like.
Step 10: After the wall is dry, mount the supports to the wall. The important part of the supports is that they have a angle cut into them on the top, and the supports on the headboard itself have an angle cut the opposite way, so that they'll fit into each other. Supports and patched wall.
Step 11: Get boys to carry the headboard up three floors while you take pictures. Like so.
Step 12: Stand back and admire from afar. Pretty Headboard.

2005-02-21T09:09:00.000-05:00

Mr. President

Yesterday was a pretty eventful day.
After church, we returned home so that The Steve and Neighbor Steve could finish up their project from Saturday. On Saturday, they had started building a headboard for our bedroom. The headboard is just a simple piece of wood that will be covered with batting and material to make me a very nice padded headboard. The part that made the project difficult is that I requested the headboard be mounted to the wall, rather than your standard headboard with leg supports. And since the headboard is padded, it cant just be screwed into the wall. Sounds fun, doesnt it? Luckily, Neighbor Steve went to MIT, so he has the smarts for such things. And he also has all the tools for such things. The project was mostly finished on Saturday, all that needed to be done on Sunday was nailing the supports to the wall. The Steve measured, we picked an arbitrary height for it to sit and found the studs.
The Steve started drilling, feeling some resistance. So, he asked Neighbor Steve to give it a try. Neighbor Steve decided that it was his drill, so they used The Steve's fancy DeWalt (courtesy of Time Warner Cable). Fancy drill got it in no problem. On the second hole, drilled by Neighbor Steve, all the lights in the room went out. Uh oh. Not good. What are the odds that on a 10x12 wall, we would pick the exact height that an electric cable runs through the studs? And that resistance? A metal plate that covers the spot where the wire is run so that occurances such as these do not occur. What else can you do in a moment like that but laugh? I mean really?
They cut out a small chunk of drywall to confirm their suspicions. Yes, they had indeed drilled through an electrical wire.
And since I'm not content knowing an open wire with a current running through it regularly is in my wall (above my head while I'm sleeping, no less) patching of the wire (preferably to code) must occur.
So, thats how The Steve is spending his day off (instead of playing computer games) and that's how Neighbor Steve is spending his birthday/day off (how sad!). Hopefully the project will be completed today. And nothing else will go wrong.
After all that happened, The Steve and I went to meet my great friends for a lovely dinner at Firebirds. Angela's birthday was on Saturday, and mine is only 1 day away. So, we combined forces and decided steak was in order. Along with JJ (Angela's JJ) and The Steve, we invited Curtis and Rachel. We had a lovely dinner. Have a look Mmmmm steak. Now thats some beautiful angus beef. Cooked on a wood fire grill. Ohhh yeah. And that baked potato? Look at that baby. You see that, its salted. With cheeese and baaacon and butta. Yes, as I celebrate turning 26, I took a year off my life. But thats okay, cause it was super tasty and I love me some meat and potatoes.
Have a look at the happy couples.
JJ and Angela
The Steve and Curtis
Me and Rachel
Sorry for the blurryness of some of the pics. I'm still trying to figure out my digital camera. I think, by the end of the night, I got it.
After dinner, we went back to Curtis & Rachel's for some yummy ice cream cake and the enchanging of presents. Angela got me a lovely set of beautiful martini glasses. Take note of the purple glass, that one's mine. Isnt it beautiful? The other three are for my guests. You're all welcome to join me for a cosmo sometime. Except Angela, she's allergic. (To my house, not cosmos. Well, sort of cosmos too. Miss Enzyme Lacker. But thats okay, I love you anyway and when it gets warmer, you can come over and I'll light some citronella candles outside and you can sip a very diluted cosmo from my beautiful glasses).
I got Angela some earrings, per her request for silver sparkly posts. I think I did a good job.
Here's me and The Steve, relaxing after too much food.
It was a very nice day.

2005-02-18T08:43:00.000-05:00

Friday Never Hesitates

I've said it once and I'll say it again, the main reason I have cats is for the entertainment value.
Yesterday, a package from my mom arrives. It was filled with lots of things I'll never use, some things that will hide in a closet until she comes to visit again, and a few neat things. The coolest part of the package (a Valentines/Birthdays/Easter package) was the Pepsi cap with a free song. Woo hoo! What shall I buy?
Included in the package were two cute froo froo pens. One with Winnie the Pooh sitting on top of it and one with Piglet. The pen also had a pile of feathery stuff for the character to sit on.
Well, Cooper has quite the infactuation with feathery stuff. He gets way possessive about it (much more than any other toy he has). So, I should have not been so surprised when Cooper found the pen and made off with it.
Exibit A
Of course, I jump up and squeal "Cooper! No! That's my pen!" and start laughing. But instead of grabbing it from him right away, I run upstairs to get the camera so you can see what I mean.
The best part about it is that he growls. This low rumble as he clenches his teeth and shows them to you.
I chased him upstairs, he tried to hide behind the afgan. I finally got a hold of the pen and tugged.
Exhibit B
I got the cap of the pen and he made off with the rest still in his mouth.
This was not a one man job. I called in back-up. Finally, we cornered him in the kitchen.
Exhibit C
The piglet pen is there for reference. Now you can see how fluffy the feathers were before being in Cooper's mouth for five minutes.
Ahh, Pets.

2005-02-14T13:55:00.000-05:00

Sweet Comic Valentine

Happy Valentine's Day to you all. The Steve and I no longer celebrate the holiday... partly because I think Valentine's Day is for suckers (no offense) and partly because I would much rather have all The Steve's efforts focused on the day that is all about me and only me (and George Washington and Drew Barrymore, and now my friend Lindsay)(I can share a little). We all know The Steve couldnt handle two holidays in one month.
However, we once did celebrate. So, here's a story from the past.
Lets bring it way back to Valentine's Day, 1997.
It was our first Valentine's Day. We had been dating for less than four months. Being that we were long distance (me on the east coast of Florida and him on the west coast) my mom drove me over for a visit. I dont remember if we went out for dinner or anything. The only important part of that day was the card. There were probably even gifts involved, but I dont remember them.
The card. Which I still have in a scrapbook. I opened mine first. Turns out that I had gotten him the same exact card. 200 miles apart, two different card stores, and we pick the same exact card for each other.
Guess after that, why even bother trying to top it?
Now, lets get past this lovey dovey holiday and move on to the real stuff. Myyyyy birthday is only eight days away. :)

2005-02-11T13:04:00.000-05:00

And I'm Weakened By The Force Of Your Eyes

If you've been sitting there wondering why Sabrina is so very special (because you already know I'm special, you just maybe havent figured out why yet...). Well, I think I have the reason.
This afternoon, while I was Krogering, I came across one of those little dishes, with samples, in the bakery. You know, the little sample cup, with whatever they fancy (or need to get rid of) inside. Today, it was chocolate cherry cake. Yummy looking chocolate cake with beautiful pink (cherry flavored, I'm assuming) frosting. Sounds good, doesnt it? So, I took a sample. But I did not eat it.
I hadnt had lunch yet. And I wasnt about to spoil my appetite. I would save the cake for later. Even when saving my cup o' cake proved to be a terrible inconvenience.
On my way back into the office, I had, in my hands, a happy meal bag (I got Butterscotch MyLittlePony with my lunch, what did you get with youuurs?), a happy meal drink, a Kroger bag with margarine and low fat buttermilk (which I'm trying not to be grossed out by), a card to mail to my Aunt Debbie (because she was sweet enough to mail me a valentine's day card) and my sampling of cake.
When I walked into the front office with my hands full, Anne said "What's that?"
"Chocolate Cherry Cake, from Kroger."
"Aren't you going to eat it?"
"No, I'm saving it for later."
She gave me a look that said "You're weird."
I gave her a look that said "No, I'm not."

2005-02-10T09:28:00.000-05:00

Love You, Love You, Love You Madly

Look at that piece of cake over there. -----> Loook. Do you see that big blob of red frosting? Someone out there was clever enough to make birthday balloons out of frosting. Whereas sugar doesnt normally affect my energy level... I have a feeling this red blob of sugar high might do the trick. Then again, when my energy deflates like the very birthday balloon I ate, I could always just have another slice...
I think that may be the best part of working with 20 women. It's always someone's birthday (in fact, mine is 12 days away!) and there's always some delightful, incredibly fattening, dessert in the front office. Snacks I dont have to pay for are the best!
Mmmm cake.

2005-02-02T13:13:00.000-05:00

But If I Had Your Faith

Tomorrow, there is a "threat" for some "winter weather" in my area. However, for the past two weekends, the weatherpeople have been "warning" that we'd have some "snow" and "ice", and for the past two weekends, there's been "nothing." A little ice on the trees that was very pretty, but nothing on the roads. I dont know if someone's trying to capitalize on me staying in all day on Saturday or what... but its not gonna work anymore. No-ho-ho, you've cried wolf one too many times Jess Torpey and I dont think I can trust your "meteorology" anymore.
That's how I feel.
The people around me, notsomuch. They seem to be dieing for snow. They've got hope, faith, that we wont have to come into work tomorrow. But how many times in the past month have I laid my cute little head down to sleep expecting to wake up, look out my window, and see a wonderful blanket of snow in my 4x6 backyard? Too many times. No more, I say, no more!
"Tomorrow's weather will be more complex..." says Jess Torpey this morning. If you'd like that translated out of meteorology speak into plain English, it means "I have no idea whats going on with the weather and the snow and the crazy stuff. I'm clueless. I have all these funky computers and even the little things with the coke can wings that go up in the tornados and nothing, nothing is telling me anything."
Jess Torpey, for those of you wondering, is the weatherman for News Channel 14. As a human being, I love Jess Torpey. As a meteorologist... well.... Actually, I shouldnt blame it all on him... I'm sure he's just going by what National Weather Service says. "Chance" of precipitation. Whatever.

2005-02-01T15:08:00.000-05:00

Can't Buy Me Love

The countdown begins!
21 days till my birthday! Yay!
I'll be turning the big two six.
The exciting thing about 26 is that its my favorite number. So, for a whole year, I get to be my favorite number. But at this point, getting older just doesnt seem as cool. Last year, I could finally rent a car. That was cool. This year, well, I'm just one more year closer to 30. And people seem to dread turning 30. A good friend of mine will be turning 30 at the end of this year. Already she's dreading it. She's even set some goals for herself, things she wants to do before she turns 30. Some of which she probably should have started on years ago.
I thought about setting goals. But goals are stupid. So, I wont.
However, I can give you some goals. In the form of presents to buy me. Cause presents are so not stupid. Presents are cooool. Way cool, even.
There are a lot of things on my Christmas list that I did not receive. I wont hold it against you, though. If you want to be extra thoughtful, you could get me something off my list. This would require reading at least two previous blog entries (which is how the gift becomes thoughtful).
If you're too damn lazy (you know who you are). You can buy me one of these things.
Garden State DVD
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind DVD Collector's Edition, please (I am nothing if not a collector).
Michael Buble's new CD It's Time Special Edition, please (I am nothing, if not special, heh).
Well, sorry, thats all I can think of. Yummy treats, jewelery, flowers, and an iPod are always welcome.

2005-01-28T09:58:00.000-05:00

I Beseech You

When Steve and I were first picking out all the fun stuff for our new house, and being bombarded with choices, we decided not to get a garage door opener. The lovely Mascha insisted that we could easily install one ourselves, and for much cheaper than what Beazer Homes was asking for.
Six months later, after six months of getting out of my car to open and close the garage door by hand, we finally bought an opener and had it installed (not like WE were going to install it ourselves).
Its very exciting. Who would have thought?
I'll name him George. George the Garage Door Opener.

2005-01-26T10:15:00.000-05:00

If You're Listening

Sorry I didnt post these yesterday, had trouble ftping. All fixed now.
Here's a shot of Myveryownbag2. Isnt she cute?
And an aerial shot of Myveryownbag2
And, of course, Belle sniffing out Myveryownbag2.
Cooper was not so interested.