Pot of Gold

There have been low hanging dark clouds lingering in the sky for days on end.  They roll in quickly and then pass by.  But sure enough there are more to follow.  They are lurking off in the distance, waiting to dump raindrops big and small.  The chill in the air makes it feel a little more like football season than baseball season.  I've been trying to be a bit more aware of my surroundings.  So I keep a watchful eye on the sky and finally catch a glimpse of hope.  Do you see it?  It's faint... and there are still plenty of dark clouds all around, but I'm full of hope and plenty of excitement.  That was evidenced by the singing and dancing in the kitchen tonight.  After taking a bit of a sabbatical from the cupcakes and cookies - I spent time creating something sweet this week.  Perhaps I'll finally find that pot of gold at the end of the busy season.... I mean rainbow.

April month-end reconciliation

As promised April brought a few showers.  And a sneak peek at May's flowers.  As with most other months it was filled with both debits and (kredits).  Hard to believe that we're well into May and I just found time to recap April!

April 2010


(+) Twins Games!  2010 Home Opener at Target Field.  4/14/2010 afternoon game with some rain.  First night game in the new stadium!  Three games in one week - a great way to start the season.


(+) No cavaties at the dentist!

(+) Flowering trees.  I have never been a big fan until this spring.  I took Tucker for walks most nights and couldn't help but notice the fragrance along the path.  It was refreshing!  Made me take a few deep breaths and relax.  I decided that when I own a home with a yard I definitely want a flowering tree.


(-) Struggling to pull myself away from work.  Wondering when the busy part will end?


(+) Run for the Lakez Marathon - a well run event that was organized by one of my great friends.  I am so proud of Heidi.  She worked her butt off and I had fun being a part of the weekend.


(+) Nachos at Zorba's.  Yum - they are in the top5!

(+) Scrapbooking weekend with the girls.  With all the recent births the spring trip relocated to Eden Prairie.  The close proximity allowed for access to babies and boys.  After a long busy season it felt good to let the creative juices flow!

(-) Subpoena phone calls - The first one made by heart skip a beat.  By the time the third criminal was released from the hospital I was well aware of the process.  Nothing like a scary automated phone call to wake you up at 6am and remind you of that very scary incident.

(+) The moon - for some reason I was especially fascinated by the moon.  Each night I looked to the East to find the moon.  On cloudy nights I was dissappointed that it was no where in sight.  The next morning while taking the dog out I looked to the West and sure enough Mr Moon was still here.  I felt reassured to know the moon was so reliable - always in the sky.

Cinco De Mayo

When traveling was a way of life I often found myself in random towns in various states.  If you were hoping for interesting and exciting locations the "town" part should have brought you back to reality.  They were blue collar towns where most people worked at the local automotive supply plant.  The towns were small.  Just small enough that when you walked into the restaurant for dinner all conversation stopped and heads turned toward the door.  Next came whispers about the out of towners.  Didn't matter if we stepped foot into the supper club, China buffert of local Mexican joint.  There was a rule that chain restaurants were out of the question as long as there was a risk to take with a local joint.  China Buffet always posed too much of a risk for me.  During those 5 years of travel I sought out as many local Mexican joints as possible.  I got burned once or twice, but Mexican still reigns as my favorite food.  And thus Cinco De Mayo holds a special place in my heart.

One friend shared in my excitement for tortilla chips, beans, salsa and sour cream.  In fact, I think it's safe to say her appetite for Mexican was slightly bigger than mine!  After dragging other team members to countless Mexican joints a few disgruntled individuals questioned our incredible appreciation for the menu.  Without giving it a second thought she quickly explained how her parents were in the Peace Corps and traveled the world after getting married.  She was a blessing to their marriage and was born while they lived in Mexico.  So as it turns out she was raised for the first few years of her life in Mexico where she feasted on the local cuisine.  She explained how she was a picky eater and for months only ate guacamole.  In order to bring this fabricated story full circle she quickly continued on about how her parents realized that the Peace Corps was not a life for a family so they moved to Nebraska and settled there.  A perfect ending to the story as she is a Husker.   I giggled at the guacamole part, but she was able to keep her composure (for the most part) and sure enough the gullible audience accepted the story.... and the fact that we would continue to eat at the local Mexican joints as much as possible.

Several months later I walked past a group of staff in the office and overhead one talking about how Mindy was born in Mexico and ate only guacamole.  I walked away with a smile.  I still don't know what's more incredible... the fact that our audience was so gullible or the amount of Mexican food consumed during our travels.  Regardless I still seek it out whenever possible.

I started my own Cinco de Mayo celebration a day early and was introduced to a new Mexican joint in the skyways  yesterday - Crazy Tacos.  (Thanks Jen!)  I was hoping for something off the menu at El Azteca today - but as I was hanging out at the "track" in Shakopee I settled for Chipotle.  I know - pretty disappointing for someone who claims nachos are her favorite item on the menu.  I promise to do better next year.

Looking forward to nachos with the sisters on the patio at El Azteca this summer!  I'll take a jumbo margarita on the rocks please!

Magically Delicious

I've been feel rather lazy lately.  I wish I could blame the laziness on being sick, perhaps a nasty virus.  One for which there are no antibiotics.  One where you need to take grandma's advice and drink lots of water and get lots of rest.  Can't say I've had an abundance of water lately, but I've been working on the rest part.  Last night's 9pm bedtime is proof that I'm working on it.  Just haven't made much progress.

So in my lazy ways (and due to a naggy pain on the right side of my abdomen) I opted for cereal for dinner.  I was thanking my orange marshmallow stars that I went back to aisle 5 and nabbed that box of Lucky Charms.  I'll be honest - I was originally looking for Alpha Bits.  Thank goodness I didn't find them.  The Lucky Charms were just what I wanted and needed tonight.  If you're on a budget (and I am!) then Marshallow Mateys might serve the same purpose.

I poured an extra large bowl and settled in on the couch.  Instantly I was taken back to the days when I was about seven or eight years old.  I would sit at the kitchen counter at one of two barstools.  My sister sat along side me on the other barstool.  I remember those barstools like it was yesterday, they swiveled from left to right.  But Dad was quick to remind us not to bang the arm rests up against the countertop.  Nestled under the kitchen cabinet and against the wall was a small television.  It was small.  With rounds knobs for the channels and volume.  I don't even think they make them that small these days.  That television wasn't even as large at the screen on my laptop.  Size didn't matter (in this case) as my sister and I would sit at the counter and eat our breakfast.  Lingering in hopes of watching a few more minutes of television before Mom or Dad would coax us into the bathroom to get ready for school.

As we lingered I ate the oat pieces of the cereal first.  Then methodically ate the marshmallows by type.  There were yellow moons, organge stars, blue diamonds, red balloons, purple horeshoes and finally the rainbows.

I was busy recalling memories during my first bowl, so it wasn't until I poured my second bowl of cereal that I realized I could hardly recognize any of the marshmallows.  Couldn't find the pink hearts or purple horseshoes.  These marshmallows were striped and made of strange shapes.  I finally found one or two rainbows.  While it was magically delicious it was most definitely missing some of my favorite marshmallows. 

For a few minutes I was annoyed by the changes to the box of Lucky Charms.  When I googled Lucky Charms and found plenty of reading material and images I realized that the contents of the cereal box isn't the only thing in my life that has changed dramatically since sitting at the counter eating breakfast before school.  As I reached over to grab the remote control and change the channel on the television I was thankful not to have to get up and turn a know.  I was also thankful to have outgrown the hairstyle of the eight year old me.

I'm hoping I have as much energy as the leprechaun tomorrow!

If you're curious about the cereal, like me, check out the details and history here.
Can't seem to find the source of the photo!

Chia Pet

All good employees know that we simply don't have time to get our hair cut on days off from work.  So I decided to sneak out of the office this afternoon for a little grooming.  It's a great feeling to leave downtown on the middle of a Tuesday afternoon when the sun is shining.  Feels like I'm skipping school.  Speaking of - I wonder what the date is for senior skip day - that's a tradition that should honored each and every year - whether you are in school or public accounting.

Both Tucker and I had appointments for a little grooming this afternoon.  I opted for foils and a cut while Tucker endured the ear cleaning and nail grinding along with his cut.  It kills me to think of just how much money that dog drains from bank account, but I guess its a fair trade off considering he doesn't shed. 

Looks like I have been watering this little Chia Pet since Christmas!

While there was one big vote for a mohawk, I vetoed that voice.  First stop was the groomer where I requested a spring cut - a little shorter than usual.  Next I stopped in at Caribou to taste one of the new iced almond mocha lattes.  After checking in for my appointment I noticed the Vogue was calling my name.  I settled in with my latte and the magazine readying for some highlights and lowlights as well as cut.  As a great friend likes to remind me... "You'll be happier if you add a little more blonde."

90 minutes later I walked out feeling like a million bucks.  Back to the groomer to get the dog.  Not sure that Tucker shares in my excitement...

before

after

My dog already has enough of an attitude, I sure hope he isn't traumatized by the lack of hair.  Meanwhile I am anxious to watch my bank account grow as he won't need another haircut until 2013.

What's for dinner?

After a quick walk with the dog tonight I headed to the kitchen in search of something "fun" for dinner. 

Potstickers - hmmm - nope.
Pizza - had that for lunch.
Pasta - last night.
Tacos - too much work.
Grilled cheese - maybe...
Wait a minute.  What about recreating that turkey, apple, bacon and cheese melt I had a few months ago?  Now you're talking!

A few months ago I stumbled upon the turkey apple bacon sandwhich at D'Brians. After wondering the skyways at lunch one day I reluctantly settled for D'Brians.  Much to my surprise it was one of the best sandwhiches I have ever tasted.  It was a grilled sandwhich with turkey, apples, bacon and hvarti.  DELICIOUS!

My friend Rachel (Ray) touts the ABC sandwhich - apple, bacon, cheddar.

A little more searching provided some ideas for the future...

Bacon apple bleu - EVERYTHING is better with blue cheese!

TAB (not just your 80s soda) - Turkey apple brie - right behind blue comes brie.  Brie is defiitely my second favorite cheese.

It doesn't quite roll off the tongue like B.L.T. But the turkey apple bacon and you pick the cheese is pretty tasty and I'm going to make it a regular in my meal planning.

16 & Pregnant

I'm not 16 (anymore).

And I'm definitely not pregnant.

But I am obsessed with MTV's 16 & Pregnant.  Thank goodness the weather was amazing today or I would have spent the entire day on the couch.  I'm embarrassed to admit how many agonizing hours were spent contemplating how the girl would ever make it work.  There were a few laughs at their silly tantums (those of the mothers, not the babies) but then I felt guilty laughing.  Amber, Maci, Farrah and the other girls have a long road ahead of them.  I have to say I think I like Catelynn and Tyler the best - they are one of the few couples who decided to give their baby to adoptive parents.  A tough decision, but likely the best decision.  On the update show Tyler is seen buying her a diamond ring.  One of the smallest diamonds I've seen, but that's when I had tears in my eyes.  You gotta love a love story.

While the first 6 episodes were gut wrenching, Leah's episode took things to a whole new level when she and her boyfriend of 1 month Corey (he is a rebound guy) find out they are having twins!  After the twins episode I realized I couldn't watch another episode (well, at least not today!).

Wow - did I really just spill all those details.  I sure hope I didn't spoil it for anyone planning to hold up and watch the marathon next weekend.  I'm still unwinding from busy season and thus I have low expectations of my productivity on the weekends.  I think I've hit a new low.  I just made a promise to myself that I will read a book next weekend instead of watch TV.  I can feel my brain rotting.  Oh wait, that's the headache I've had all weekend.  On Saturday morning I blamed it on the Friday night twins game and the 16oz beers.  This morning I realized it was the lack of caffeine all weekend.  Hmmm.  There it is... the reason to get up and go to work tomorrow morning....  Coffee!

March month-end reconciliation

March was filled with a fair amount of madness and I'm not talking about  upsets and 3 pointers.  It was the perfect storm.  I didn't keep good notes, but I believe it came in and went out like a lamb.  Unfortunately I felt the lion's presence most of the month.

March 2010

(+) The weather.  Yup.  The weather in MN in March was something to brag about. My favorite meteorologist says that hasn't happened since 1878.  Here's to hoping its a new trend!

(-) An unfortunate incident in Nashville

(+) Baby Max was born on the 6th - I was lucky enough to sneak out of the office to visit him and his mom Holly.

(-) The worst part of the month is that I just checked the camera and have no photos to show for the month. 
I made myself a little promise to do better in April.

(+) Jack's BBQ and Broadway in Nashville - especially the Stage

(+) Gorgeous full moon at the end of the month

(-) Forgot to do a march madness bracket

(+) Ditching 394 for Hwy 55 on my morning commute.  So far it proves to be a shorter commute and I'm saving $$$ on the MnPass

(-) Lack of sleep.  (That's whay April is for!)

(+) The Shred.  Jillian Michael's 20 minute sessions were just what I needed to jump start the workouts.  Looking forward to my prize! 

(-) Blog posts were few... and far between.

(+) Light at the end of the tunnel.  Here's to a big and better April!

lion and lamb were found here.

Peeps

I made a quick trip to target today.  I didn't make a list and my mind was consumed by thoughts (separate blog post coming soon), but I was determined to have a little normalcy in my life.  After wandering the aisles aimlessly, my favorite Easter candy brought a smile to my face.  There in the sea of candy and other Easter treats were the Peeps.  Pink ones, yellow ones, purple ones, blue ones, orange ones and green ones.  Bunnies and chicks!  Wait?  Since when have there been blue and orange and green?  I'm pretty sure they were only pink and yellow when the big bunny left them in my Easter basket.  Peeps are for kids - just like Trix.  But for some reason I have not outgrown them.  I like to puncture the celophane and let them get hard and a little stale before eating them.  I have a feeling its going to be a good week - thanks to the Peeps!

In my grown up life I have found another way to embrace peeps.  When the last of the slow melts and the mornings are still chilly I am anxious to introduce my toes to a little fresh air.  Peeps toes are the flips flops of the office.  I might have a professional job, but I still find a way to embrace the barefoot child that played with the neighborhood kids on Elaine Ave.  These little peeps were the result of some recent retail therapy. 

Me and my peeps are ready for Spring!

Spring Break (of sorts)

I'm on a Spring Break of sorts.  Nash Vegas Baby!  This is as close to spring break as you will come when you deal with debits and kredits. 

For the past few years I have scheduled an audit in Nashville during March.  It's a breath of fresh air after a long season of auditing.  This is the first year that the audit has gone well.  This is not the first year that I left my inhibitions at Gate C19 at the MSP airport.  A morning flight, lunch on the patio, an afternoon of work, followed by dinner at Jack's BBQ (legendary) and a few too many drinks - all in a day's work! 

I'm determined to have a star sighting while here in Nashville.  Too bad Miley was busy with Simon tonight.  Wonder where Nicole is?  Not sure if it will ever happen, but I do promise to have a few too many morgan diets and listen to a some cover Country bands at the Stage. Not sure why - but I really like this place!  Did I mention the weather?  Vitamin D is a wonder drug. 

Today's quote:  "Nashville is like the Minneapolis of the South."

Will return soon - but for now I'm on spring break.

En Route from En Zed

A group email among some of my favorite girls this morning led to banter between my friend Andrea and I.  She's on the other side of the globe and I was especially missing her.  Particularly the energy level, humor and adventurous spirit.  For the past two months there has been growing anticipation over a package that left En Zed destined for MN.  Once again she inquired if I had found anything in mailbox.  Today I asked her if the postman was swimming to MN?  If so, I feared he drowned and the package was lost forever. 

Having completely forgotten about the potential for a package, I opened the mailbox tonight and let out a squeal!  It was finally here!  The package that started its journey on the other side of the globe.  Wrapped in brown paper with her recognizable handwriting - it was indeed from good old Fran.

Inside the package was a fun spiral book for keeping notes (perhaps an idea log for this little blog!), a cute post card filled with words of love from Fran and..... genuine sheep skin nipple warmers which were handcrafted in New Zealand.  How considerate!  Fran knows me just well enough to know that I have been dying for sheep skin nipple warmers!   Or perhaps this was simply a return favor for a birthday package that I sent to Seattle a few years ago.

Thanks for the love Fran.

The Lady in Aisle A13

I was a bit embarassed and a slightly frustrated by my trip to Target this evening.  After boasting about how the remote control survived the spin cycle it decided to fail me last night.  In a hurry, I headed toward the electronics department uncertain of where to find a universal remote control.  I knew that Best Buy would have been a better option, but time didn't allow for that adventure.  As I scanned the aisles I began to doubt that they even had what I was looking for.  Finally at the end of the aisle I found three different options ranging in price between $6 and $18.  I was pleasantly surprised by the great deal I was getting.  (At one point I tried to justify a new LCD in the bedroom instead of the universal remote!)  After careful consideration between black and silver I opted for the silver - the same color as the old school TV that sits on my dresser.  I was feeling a little ghetto at this point, but none-the-less satisfied as I can once again fall asleep with the television.

What made the trip to Target worth my while was the chatty woman I met at the opposite end of the aisle.  She too was suprised by the great "deals" at Target.  She very much liked the prices she found and decided to toss a second package of 10 VHS tapes in her cart!  I smiled all the way from the electronics department, through the checkout and to my car.  I can't stop wondering what she plans to record on her VCR?

I heard that Young and the Restless is really good these days.  Perhaps she's a Y&R fan!

Spin Cycle

As I ran out the door to take the dog to the new indoor dogpark I had a sudden burst of energy and decided to pull the sheets off the bed and throw them in the laundry.  The thought of having to make the bed later that night was daunting.  But the desire to crawl into a freshly made bed won out.  After finding my uniform (sweats and a white vneck tshirt) I stripped the bed and ran downstairs to start to the laundry.  I even added a little bleach to brighten the sheets. Bonus points for me.

The dogpark was great.  Just the perfect fix for a rainy week of arriving home after dark each night to find a dog that is restless and playful.  Over the past week I have come to view this dogpark as a lifesaver.  It deserves a post of its own, so I'll save the details for later.

Back from the dogpark I dropped the leash and kicked off my shoes.  Ready to find some dinner, but I halted at the washer to transfer my laundry into the dryer.  Upon opeing the washer something strange caught my eye.  After a double take I confirmed that sitting at the bottom of the washer was the remote control.  Hmmm.  Not exactly what I was expecting to find.  But its always nice to know where the remote control is.

Wait.  What the hell is the remote control doing in the washing machine? 

Just like Benson and Stabler I put the facts together and realized that in my swift move to strip the bed I brought the remote control along with the bedding.  I stood there leaning over the washer thanking God that my head is attached to my neck, I'd hate to think what would happen if it wasn't attached! 

I was pretty certain that the dose of bleach on top of the laundry detergent and the spin cycle had left the remote control out of commission.  To my surprise, it works better than ever!  Looks like I found a way to make doing the laundry a little more interesting.

PTO Planning

That was the subject line of an email I received yesterday.  The message came from HR.  Felt like pouring salt in the wound.  Trust me, once I find myself on the other side of this busyness I will welcome plenty of PTO into my life. 

I believe that most people define this as "personal time off" or "paid time off".  I like to refer to it as "purchased time off".  As in I paid (dearly) by putting in many hours for the ability to take some time off.

After receiving this untimely message I proceeded to daydream about how I would spent my day of PTO.  I would be elated for just ONE day of PTO. In fact, at this point I might be willing to use PTO on a Saturday.  Yes - you heard me right... on a Saturday.  I know it appears as if I have been brainwashed if I'm willing to cash in my prepaid for use on a Saturday. 

With this week's dreary weather I have dreamed up a day of PTO that consists of sweats, raindrops, a little tunder, the dog, my downcomforter, remote control and possibly a fresh batch of gooey chocolate chip cookies.  I am 142% certain that I could spent the entire day alternating between napping, reading a magazine, watching worthless daytime television and more napping.  If I got restless in the afternoon I would simply roll onto my stomach and let one leg hang off the bed.  That would be me making a statement to the dog that I'm not planning on moving anytime soon.  Wait - for the dog's sake I would likely grab a Dingo for him when I went downstairs to get more cookies and some milk (in a glass with ice and a straw!).

After putting the finishing touched on my perfect day of PTO I was starting to feel guilty about wasting my day away so it was back to the drawing board.  Take two would likely involve getting up early for coffee on the deck and my Google reader.  Then maybe I would head to the gym for a class.  I would likely sneak in a quick tan on my way home.  The rays make it feel like an official vacation, so I'll try to ignore the cancer warnings and just pretend I'm in Mexico for about 15 minutes.  After a long shower I would start some laundry, organize a closet or possibly the disaster area in my basement.  Next up is lunch with a long lost friend - not one in particular - but any of them as I haven't seen anyone in weeks!  wait I think it's been months!  I would definitely follow the rule about letting your food settle so I would head over see my favorite nail artist for a mani and pedi.  After a little pampering I would pick up some groceries, catch a quick nap, play fetch with the dog and then cook up a delicous dinner.  As long as this is a fantasy PTO day I would likely crawl into bed around 9:30 and read. Bedtime before 10pm would be perfection.

At this point PTO is only in my imagination.  Come April, or better yet May I plan make these dreams a reality!

For now, it's back to work.

Turkey Meatloaf

Each and every time I left Tucker out to go potty he runs over to the neighbor's house and excitedly wags his tail at the door.  He is hoping that his Buster will come out and play.  When the neighbors are on vacation or just away for the day I struggle to explain to Tucker why we shouldn't sit there and whine while waiting for them to return.

Tucker isn't the only one that is excited to see the neighbors.  I enjoy hanging out with Cara (and her husband) for many reasons.  Perhaps there is good gossip about the neighbors.  Sometimes we share a bottle or wine or bake cupcakes - or possibly drink wine while baking cupcakes!  My favorite visits to their house are when dinner is involved.  At first I was reluctant to accept their offer.  These days I practically invite myself inside after playing with the dogs.  Cara is a great cook and always makes a full meal (salad, main dish and side/s).  I'm impressed with her recipes and pairings.  I honestly can't remember all the meals I've had at their house but the Asian sloppy joes and turkey meatloaf were a few of my favorites. 

Someone to cook me dinner is just the first part of my wish list.  Part B includes someone to blow out my hair every morning.  I'm jealous of women on television as I imagine how relaxing it might be to start my morning with a cup of coffee and the newspaper or better yet my google reader as someone does my hair.  Heck while they are at it can they just take care of doing my makeup as well?

So as I devoured one of Cara's meals a few weeks ago I mentioned to her how this was fulfilling only part of my wishlist.  When I told her about part B she offered up her husband.  He didn't seem all that interested, but I really hope he changes his mind!

Not only do I owe them dinner, but I think I better throw in some dog food as well asTucker helps himself to his fair share of Buster's food!

February month-end reconciliation

February came and went with a blink of the eye.  That's what happens when I'm busy auditing.  Better late than never, here's the month end reconcilation:

February 2010

(+) Vancouver Winter Olympics

(-) Grandpa Lenie passed away on February 12th

(+) Barley John's Brew Pub

(+) Baby Sam was born on February 27th - his proud mama is an Andersen friend

(+/-) Lots of auditing

(+) FIT class

(+) Valentine's Day care packages

(-) The curse of water - leaky kitchen sink, broken toilet tank lever, and spilling an entire water bottle on my computer.

(-) Little sleep and lots of work

(+) Pottery Barn's spring catalog

(+) Lemon and lime water at my new favorite client

(+/-) Breathtaking frosty trees the morning that Grandpa went to heaven

(+)  Reading the Sunday newspaper

(+) McDonald's filet-o-fish commerical.  Give me that filet-o-fish... give me that fish.

(+) Papyrus gift wrap

(+) A beautiful full moon

Porcelain Problem

Toilet tank lever.  That's the formal name for the little thing that you push down to flush the toilet.  Mine broke this morning.  Annoying.  Called Dad on the way to work.  He assured me I could handle this one.  I went with the new townhome for a reason.  I wasn't up to the challenge of the fixer-upper house.

Stopped at Home Depot on the way home.  Purchased my toilet tank lever and was on my way home.  Follwed Dad's instructions, but the plastic nut wouldn't budge.  Tried it with a pliers.  Then tried 2 pliers.  Said a quick prayer.  Tried again.  Nope.  Tried a few harsh words.  Nope.  As I shook my head in disbelief I wondered what the lesson in all of this was.  Sent a few picture texts to Dad so he could assess the situation.  More harsh words.  By this point the dog ran to hide under the bed.  Apparently he responds to harsh words only when they are directed at the toilet.  Charged with a new idea I borrowed a steak knife from the kitchen.  Steak knife turned saw was wasn't working either.  It was hardly a blade.

Not ready to give up.  Back to Home Depot.  At this point I mean business and I am looking for a hacksaw.  The three nice men standing at the end of the aisle quickly point me in the right direction.  They agree this saw will definitely do the trick.  Driving home I try to look in the bright side.  I am now the proud owner of a mini hacksaw.

Back at home I saw in all directions.  Perpendicular.  Parallel.  Diagonal.  The blade is scraping against the porcelain, yet I still can't get what is left of the plastic nut to budge.  That's when the waterworks start up.  Yep.  Tears.  This stupid toilet tank lever had wasted almost 2 hours of my night.  The harsh words and tears didn't work.  I removed the blade from the saw to get flush again the inside of the tank.  It slipped a few times, cutting my skin.  But I was finally making progress.  Done.  Mission accomplished.  It took 2 trips to Home Depot, many harsh words, tears and a little blood. 

I plan to use that toilet as much as possible tonigh to make my efforts worthwhile.  I may even set an alarm to get up in the middle of night - just to flush the toilet!

Oh and did I mention I bought a mini hacksaw tonight? 

Going to Tracy.

Right now I'd like to pull up to the drive thru at the coffee shop and order a large non-fat cup of patience.  Actually make that 2 of those. 

I have reason to believe that I was an annoying kid.  You know the kind, the ones that ask approximately 1,000,000 questions.  Oh wait... that's most children around the age of 5 or 6.  In fact, when the Doody brothers came to visit in early January I think they broke the record and asked more than 1,000,000 questions.  Their parents were headed to a football game and I happily agreed to spend time with the brothers and their sister.  They arrived bright and early (it was early for my childless self!) on Sunday morning.  Within the first 15 minutes of their arrival I was completely out of answers.  I was exhausted, needed a nap and couldn't come up with another answer if my life depended on it.

I was likely that kid that asked 1,000,000 questions.  I remember a certain time when my parents were short on patience.  I asked them where they were going and my mom promptly responsed that she was going crazy.  Now there was a small town about 10 miles away by the name of Tracy.  So I assumed she said that she was going to Tracy and immediately responded (likely in a whiny voice) that I wanted to go to Tracy too!  If I recall correctly both of my parents burst out in laugher. 

Just needed to clear my head.  Now its time to get back to work.  Deadlines are looming!

Broken Glass

For some reason I have always liked Annie Lennox's song - Walkin on Broken Glass.  It's a catchy tune and sometime I find myself singing it out loud.  After the course of today's events I am not sure that I will ever sing along to this song again.

I started the day short of sleep and as a result short on patience.  My wakeup call came from a friend instead of my alarm.  I was already late for my appointment at the chiropractor.  I simply couldn't pull myself out of bed.  Finally I mustered enough energy.  I think I might have found my entire outfit in the pile of dirty clothes on my bedroom floor.  Shhhhh!  Don't tell anyone!  With the dog in his crate I ran out of the house and thankfully remembered my gym bag.  Made it to the chiropractor and finally to the client.

After a busy morning I completed some important debit and kredit work and sent it off the team for more auditing.  I packed up the computer and a ridiculous stack of paper and hussled to the car.  Wondering what I would get for lunch I saw a new email on my phone.  Here's where things start heading south.  I sent the wrong file.  I was headed north on 94 off to the next client, but quickly diverted to the closest Caribou.  This was my second visit to Caribou today.  I opted for their wifi instead of coffee.  I impatiently (remember I am short on patience today) waited to boot up my computer, opened the file and resent the correct file. 

Back on the road again and nothing interested me for lunch.  Lunch just seemed like a waste of time at this point.  I decided that a left turn wasn't worth it so I ruled out many lunch options.  I passed by Burger King, Denny's, and DQ.  I was now left with only one option.  FatBoy Sandwhiches.  I have never even heard of the place.  But I had mocked the name of the sandwich place as I drove by earlier this week.  Pretty sure they could have come up with a better name!  Yet, I was was the succumbing to FatBoy's.  What's worse? it is took me THREE tries to find the entrance.  What a waste of time. I'm afraid I jinxed myself with the TIGF theme song!


I was finally at the second client of the day and busy auditing.  Things were getting a little stressful and the sun was at the perfect angle.  By 4pm, the sun hit a perfect angle and raised mercury to an incredible heat.  It felt like a sauna in the audit room.  I had planned on the sauna today - but was hoping to hit it up after the workout.  By 4:30 we were all sweating, crabby and not very productive.  It was time to leave for the gym.

After an intense FIT class Kristin and I grabbed towels and headed for the sauna.  We were devastated to find a sign on the door to the pool area indicating that the pool area - includinng the sauna - is closed due to a remodel.  Worse yet - it's closed for the next month!  Really?  I'm pretty sure this isn't my favorite day.

We chat in the lockeroom minus the heat of the sauna.  Then home to the dog.  Fetch, a shower and now into the kitchen to find something for dinner.  Sometimes I justify not cleaning the kitchen or loading the dishwasher all week long.  I have deemed it inefficient to do this on a daily basis and instead save it for the weekend.  I was dreading the task but knew I wouldn't be in the mood after spending Saturday at the office.  I reluctantly started unloading the dishwasher so that I could then begin loading it again.  A swift pivot and then came a CRASH! A wine glass broke into 1,000,042 pieces.  That's when the tears came.  Honestly, I am a bit surprised there weren't tears earlier in the day.  At this point I paused, wondering if there was someone I could call to come clean this up.  Mom?  I realized that wasn't going to happen so I put the Dyson to work.  And as I vacuumed slivers of glass I couldn't help but start singing the words to Walkin on Broken Glass.

Not a great photo of the glass - but there's the stem on the edge of the rug!

Friday Night Routine

It's been a long week.  I am struggling to keep my head above water, answer questions from the audit teams and the clients, review workpapers, read emails and get home before the dog pees in his crate.  I have extreme guilt over the last one cuz it happened this week for the first time since he was a little puppy.  But don't worry about it - I made up for it by playing indoor fetch (one handed while I work on the computer) for over an hour that night.

Tomorrow is Friday.  There is a certain end of the week excitement.  I can still hear that song.. "It's Friday night, we're gonna have some fun, show you how it's done... T.G.I.F".  Years ago ABC's lineup including Family Matters, Step By Step, Full House and Perfect Strangers created end of week excitement.   Friday doesn't hold the same excitement when you have plans to spend Saturday in the office.  But I've managed to create a different sort of excitement.

I have a new Friday routine.  It's doesn't involve margaritas on the patio or Dateline and beers. 

The new routine provides the opportunity to clear my head and decompress.  It's a hussle to try and leave work early, I'm anxious in traffic, but by the time I get to the gym I am ready for some personal time.  I spend 60 minutes away from the cell phone and laptop and clear my head of all numbers - both debits and kredits.  After class I sit in the sauna to soak it all in for a few more minutes, then go home to the dog, play some fetch, take a nice long shower, and find some dinner.   After a little T.V, and internet I retreat to bed with the latest US Weekly.  A little relaxation after a long week.  The alarm will go off early and I've got lots to get done on Saturday.

But for now... I'm really looking forward to my Friday night routine.

Just Me and My Sister

It’s been a few years since my family lived at 901 Elaine. Back in the day it was just me and my sister as my other two siblings had yet to join our family. Two years separate us in age. As most sisters will attest this allows for a best friend on some days and a best enemy on other days.

As young children, the differences between Amy and I were obvious. She wore a short haircut - and longed for a rat tail! One of her favorite television shows was MacGyver. There was a point in time when her most treasured possession was a rabbit's foot. She had a pet hamster named Jack. She wore Converse shoes. Listened to REM constantly. Always kept her "beeta" near by. (P.S. a beeta is an affectionate term for a much loved, well-worn security blanket. This one was originally pink in color but today takes on a dull grayish tone.) It’s funny to me that many years later some of my favorite memories of my sister are the stark differences between the two of us.

We grew closer as friends after I moved away to college, but there are countless memories that I cherish from when it was just me and my sister…
Here are just a few:
- Watching cartoons on Saturday mornings and eating Bisquick from measuring cups (this was while Mom and Dad slept late!)

- Sunday night picnics in the basement with popcorn and orange juice.

- Easter egg hunts in the living room.

- First day of school photos.

- Family vacations to the Black Hills.

- The time you and Mom went to Florida and Disney World without me!

- The day you went to church without wearing underwear.

- Our pet rabbits and the winning trophy at the pet show.


Happy Birthday to my sister. I hope you enjoyed your day and I wish you only the best in the next year. Maybe this will be the year that you decide to give up your beeta?!?

Falling Off the Horse (the first time).

Week two of F.I.T. class was similar to week one.  This time I brought a few friends along with me - misery loves company!  When my calves started burning around the twenty minute mark - I started daydreaming in an effort to distract myself.  As my my thoughts wandered I realized that my lack of attending classes at the gym isn't the first time I fell of the horse.  There was that one time when....

I was about 10 years old and I was spending the day with my cousin Heather.  She lived on a farm and had horses.  We planned to ride her horse all afternoon.  I was amazed by how responsible she was with her horse.  We went out to the barn and I watched anxiously as Heather prepared the horse for riding.  I have no idea what that horse's name was - perhaps that is fitting as the horse and I didn't end up as friends.  After careful preparation we were ready to ride.  Heather climbed up in the saddle and then instructed me climb on behind her.  I was (o.k. maybe still am) not coordinated - so it took me a few tries before I was able to pull myself up, throw my leg around to the other side and sit close behind the saddle.  I was a bit of a chicken so I didn't feel safe enough holding on to the back of the saddle.  Instead I held onto Heather around her waist.  And we were off!  Did I mention that I was a chicken?  That was back when I was scared to ride rollercoasters.  (I have since grown up.... a little!)  So each time the horse would speed up to a trot I would put a death grip on Heather to alert her that the speed was a little too fast for comfort.

I have no idea how long we rode the horse that day.  I will never forget how the ride ended.  I believe that something spooked the horse, causing him to buck and lift his front legs.  That's when my death grip wasn't strong enough and I slid off the back of the horse to a rather rough landing in a rocky field.  At the exact same moment the horse decided to relieve himself.  Perhaps he was scared shitless!?!?!  I know I was!  After shedding a few tears I tried to pull myself up only to realize that my leg was in serious pain.  I limped my way all the way back to the house as there was no way I was getting back on the horse again - it had been decided were not going to be friends.  I was still limping when I returned home that night, the next day and even the next week. 

I was in third grade at the time and I was really enjoying the swim team.  So in an effort to continue swimming, I avoided a visit to the doctor - fearing he would advise against the swimming.  So for at least a month after this incident I continued to limp my way through each and every day.

It took a long time for me to get back on a horse again! 

Gramps.

Gramps was a social guy. Always in good spirits and looking to make a new friend. He loved telling stories of his younger years.  He admitted to getting into his fair share of trouble back in the day.  In his later years he rode a motorized scooter downtown to local bar and restaurant to hang out with the other locals.  He wasn't afraid to write a letter to his friendly congressmen or senator to give him a a piece of his mind.  He may have even told a few dirty jokes in his day. 

My favorite memories of my Grandpa Lenie are those of him sitting in his beloved chair.  Now there was more than one chair in his lifetime, but the one that comes to mind was a classic 1970s shade of rusty orange.  My family would pull into the alley driveway and my sister and I were anxious to run inside and find Grandpa.  I can smell and feel the cool damp air in the driveway.  There were big old trees that shaded the driveway and left droppings in the gravel.  We would enter the breezeway and let the featherlight screendoor slam behind us.  Inside the house was the tiny kitchen and memories of drinking Pepsi out of glass bottles.  Through dining room doorway and around the corner we would find grandpa sunken in his chair.  There was an incredible light in his eyes and a smile that filled his face.  A tight squeeze that lasted just long enough to show how much he loved me.  A greeting I will never forget. 

We would spend the afternoon visiting.  Grandpa remained sunken in his chair with the mustard yellow leather footrest stained with newspaper print.  I would climb in his lap and explore all the cool things that made their home on the end table next to his chair.  The phone.  An outdated lamp that went well with the '70s chair.  A magnifying glass.  His police scanner. A pocket knife.  Toothpicks.  I was always interested in what I found on that end table. 

Last Friday evening Grandpa Lenie left this earth and made his way to heaven. He lived a good life. While his memory was old and tired, his spirit was awake and alive even in his final days. He will be missed. I’ve spent the past few days recalling childhood memories and am making a point to etch them in my mind and in my heart.

Gramps ended each visit with a hug that rivaled the previous and a kiss on the cheek while wishing me “all the luck in the world”.  He wasn’t shy to tell me just how proud of me he was.  It always felt good to hear it – but it warms my heart right now. 

Today I will say goodbye to Gramps.  It's my turn to tell him that I'm proud of him.  He lived a good life and has left quite a legacy.  I love you Gramps.

Crazy Idols and Auditors

A conversation earlier today in the audit room centered around television - the shows we can't believe we still watch.  The clock just struck midnight and I'm sitting on the couch doing my debit & kredit thing.  The DVR is providing some background noise - Hollywood week on Idol's 9th season.  American Idol is definitely one of those shows - that I can't believe I still watch.  Have there really been 8 other seasons?  During our conversation this morning I commented that I couldn't believe how many people still come out to audition in each and every city the judges visit.  The DVR provides background noise many nights and I've seen plenty of crazed contestants.  I am continually shocked by the determination and dedication of the contestants. 

Yet... I'm the one sitting on the couch watching listening to these crazy contestants.  Determined to finish just a one more thing on yesterday's to do list.  Not sure who is more crazy - the idols or the auditor?  I am continually shocked at how much work it takes to finish an audit.  I'm starting to realize that I might be as crazy as these characters on Idol. 

I'm thankful for the background noise at this time of night.

Number Munchers.

I started practicing "crunching numbers" long before the accounting classes in college or my debut in public accounting. It all started in the computer lab at West Side Elementary. I spent 7 years of my life in that building. To this day I can still remember how heavy the doors to the school were - you really had to lean back and use the weight of your body to move them. At the end of the hall in a classroom turned computer lab we spent about 30 minutes a week on the computer.

It was a great invention! A big electronic machine with it's dazzling screen displaying a very memorable green font. Reading, math, gym, music and lunch all seemed a little mundane when compared to the time we spent in the computer lab. I remember racing into the computer lab in hopes of snagging a spot next to your friends. Then came the process of handing out the floppy disks - your choice of Number Munchers or Oregon Trail. Waiting impatiently for the teacher to had me a Number Munchers disk I was in a hurry to insert the disk and boot up the computer. The faster you could tackle this process the longer you had to play the game.

For the next 20 to 25 minutes you could hear the constant chatter of the munchers munching their numbers and announcing the new high score or on the other hand there was the dreadful music indicating your family died of dysentery along the trail. What first grader knows about dysentery?

These are a few of my first memories of the computer. Funny to think that it was limited to 30 minutes a week. These days I use the laptop as a source of warmth during the winter.

One of my must reads had a post that inspired me to think about the evolution of the computer in my life. The once a week visit to the computer lab was just a start. It's fun to recall our family's first computer. Dial-up internet. My first email address. The list goes on and on. Although I must say that my first purchase of a computer didn't come until last year - a Macbook. I've had a laptop (well actually quite a few of them!) ever since I started in the business of debits and kredits and am lucky enough to get to use it for a few personal things over the years as well. But just last year I decided it was time to have a computer that was just for fun - no work allowed!

Check out the post that inspired me to take a trip down memory lane. the lil bee: Do you remember your first? And don't forget to read the comments on the post - they are likely to remind you of a few of your own forgotten computer memories.

Time is Money

As the old adage says... time is money.  

In an effort to buy more time and to keep my life in balance, I am a frequent MNPass customer. As I see it - I have put a price on a few extra minutes of sleep.

A few years ago the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area joined the ranks of cities two, three and five times the size and introduced a modified concept of the high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane.  I say modified because the state of Minne introduced a lucrative approach to traffic congestion.  I did a little research and found that we are one of just 2, maybe 3 states to implement such a program.  The Department of Transportation's website indicates:


"MnPASS is designed for solo drivers to be able to use the HOV lane by paying an electronic toll. Its purpose is to maintain traffic flow and alleviate congestion. If you drive alone and want a more convenient and predictable trip, open a MnPass account and start using the MnPASS Express Lanes."



Might I add a few descriptive words to their definition:


"MnPASS is designed for solo drivers to be able to use the HOV lane by paying an incredibly expensive electronic toll. Its purpose is to maintain traffic flow and alleviate congestion. If you drive alone and want a more convenient and predictable trip, open a MnPass account and start providing some additional revenue to the never ending road construction season by using the MnPASS Express Lanes."

One morning last week I left the house in a typical hurried frenzy.  Note the key ingredient this morning happened to be a light dusting of snow on the ground.  I rounded the on ramp to 394 heading east, moved 2 lanes to the left and prepared to enter the MnPass express lane.  I expected to see what I see most days, something like this:

Only I gasped out loud to find the current price to downtown Minneapolis listed as $8.00!  Yikes - that's a steep price to pay for sleep.  Unfortunately this isn't the first time I've been faced with this sitation.  In the debit & kredit world all entries must balance.  Once again I am making a vow to put my head on the pillow a little earlier at night in order to avoid this steep price tag!

Fortune

A very typical lunch with the crew from work.  The group decides on Asian Max.  We venture through the skyways for sushi, seasame chicken, spicy green beans and your choice white or fried rice.  We make our way back to the office and decide to take a short break and eat together in a conference room.  The smell of asian food isn't the only thing in the air - there's plenty of conversation - and the typical dread of all the work that lies ahead.  We can't help but laugh at Katie's fortunes...

I have plenty of work on my plate and some thoughts weighing heavy on the mind.  I can't help but hope that there is some truth to those fortunes.  And I sure hope that they apply to me too - and not just Katie!

Funtional Integrated Training (F.I.T.)

A 60 minute class at Lifetime Fitness.  It's been 48 hours and I still can't lift my arms above my head.  Nor can I get out of bed without a few groans. 

I frequented this class a few years ago.  During the first 5 minutes of the class I was reminded just how long it's been since I attended the class.  At about the 6 minute mark I wanted to leave - I was quite certain I wouldn't survive the next 54 minutes.  After the first 10 minutes, I was finding my groove.  I let my mind wander to one of my favorite workout music video.  F.I.T is nothing like the workout in this video - but I laugh ever single time I watch thevideo.  With "Call on Me" consuming my thoughts - the next thing I knew my triceps (among aother things) were burning and it was time for the cooldown.

While I'm still in a fair amount of pain - it feels good to be back on the horse.

G T L

My recent sickness gave way to a day spent in bed and on the couch.  It's been a while since I've had a sick day.  Does it count if your sick day is on Sunday?

After sleeping for over 12 hours I finally ventured downstairs to the couch.  Yes, the couch.  Remember - it's a sick day.

The sunlight was streaming in from the patio and the warmth on my face gave me a little strength.  Not enough strenth to get up and get the newspaper that was lying on the driveway, but just enough to reach for the remote to turn on the TV.  All good sick days require at least a few hours of worthless TV so I thought I'd check out MTV.  I was in luck - the Jersey Shore reunion was just ending and next up was 'Before the Shore'.  Now I watch my fair share of worthless TV (this girl has seen every episode of the Kardashians).  I just haven't found room on the DVR or time in my life for Jersey Shore.  I decided that my sick day presented the perfect opportunity to find out what I have been missing!

After the 30 minute episode I am certin that Jersey Shore is worth watching.  Waste of time?  Maybe, but definitely worth the laughs.  It made me feel old, I cringed at most of scenes and laughed out loud a few times.  Mostly at the guys that need mom to do their laundry and make chicken cutlets (shout out to Mike S!).   My favorite part of this recap episode was Pauly D's intro where he wanted to bring his own tanning bed with him to the shore.  He was very disappointed when he couldn't fit it out his bedroom door.  Wow!

In the end I was a little jealous that I never spent a summer on the Jersey Shore.  I did have a very memorable weekend in Ocean City, MN - so I guess I'll settle for that!

When my sister (the college student) left me a message last week noting it was a G-T-L day I had not idea what she was referring to.  After meeting Pauly D - I have a new appreciation for G-T-L!   Did I mention that watching the episode made me feel old?

In an effort to kick the sickness and in honor of Pauly D - I managed to go tanning that afternoon.  I figured a little vitamin D would de me good!

Great photo with the ferris wheel in the background - if it weren't for his tatoos you might think it was a family friendly summer at the shore!

Bedrest & Buffalo Chicken Chili

Last year at this time bedrest was a way of life for my friend Kristin.  She was 35 weeks pregant with twin boys.  She had set up shop in her bed - this included a make shift office that allowed her do her debit and kredit work right from her bed! 

I visited her most Friday nights.  It felt strange to be greated at the door by her husband and dog who would lead me into the bedroom.  Tere I found a glowing pregnant girl nestled in the king size bed.  She would invite me into the bed - where we would spend an hour or so recounting that past few days.  She was desperate for some sense of life outside of her bed and her house for that matter!  I was amused to look around in awe at everything she has right there in bed with her - there was a table set up next to the bed to allow for storage of 2 computers, powercords, stacks of paper, a calculator, pens, pencils, water, chapstick, camera, yarn, knitting kneedles, phones, remote controls, medication to stop the contractions and possibly even a snack.  It seemed like she might be able to survive in there for many more weeks.  In total she spent about 8 weeks on bedrest before Prior and Mason decided to make their appearance.  The night they were born is a story on its own!
Clearly the boys are the best thing that came out of her bedrest stint.  But I would argue that Rachael Ray's buffalo chicken chili recipe is a close second.  She happened to watch an episode where Rachel made buffalo chicken chili and topped it off with melted blue cheese on tortilla chips.  Kristin knows my love of blue cheese and this recipe is one of my faves.  I make it often and never get sick of it.  If you haven't tried it yet - do so soon!

Buffalo Chicken Chili

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)
2 tablespoons butter
2 pounds all-white meat ground chicken breast
1 large carrot, peeled and finely chopped
1 large onion, chopped
3 ribs celery, finely chopped
5 large cloves garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon smoked paprika (you can substitute with chipotles or chipotle chili powder)
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 cups chicken stock
1/4 to 1/2 cup hot sauce, depending on how hot you like it
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
1 7-ounce bag yellow corn chips
1 7-ounce bag blue corn chips
3/4 pound blue cheese, crumbled

You can find the recipe here.

I now use a rotisserie chicken and just shred the meat instead of ground chicken meat.  I have even added some sort of white beans to make it a little more hearty!  Enjoy.

It seems like forever since Kristin was on bedrest - or wait, maybe it feels like just last week.  All I know is that those boys are having a birthday very soon!

January month-end reconciliation

January has come to an end and in the land of debits and kredits - many bean counters are busy closing the books and preparing month-end account reconciliations.  One of 'my must reads' does a nice little tribute to the month and so it only seems fitting that I do a little reconciliation of my own.

January 2010

(+) My 31st birthday!

(+) Monday nite with Kate including dinner from PF Changs, Bachelor - Wings of Love, Facebook, dogs and some aweseom chocolate cake!

(+) Knitting baby hats

(+) Clean closets

(+) Mixed Cds from my sister for my birthday

(-) A little extra stress at work

(+) Baby shower for baby Gianino - Samule Joseph made his grand entrance (a little early) on January 27th

(+) Brunch with Haley - awesome food and delicious mimosas!

(+) One last holiday celebration - the annual Andersen Girls Christams Party - finally used my new egg plate!

(-) Prayers for Cale - high school friend Anne's son is sick and starting treatment.

(+) Baking cupcakes with Joan

(+) Stuffed peppers - yummy!

(+) Baby Emmy was born on January 25th - her proud mama is a high school friend

(-) Sickness - Boo!

Next time someone asks what I've been up to I sure hope I don't respond by saying... "nothing"!

Happy Birfday T-Man!

Today is Tucker's 3rd Birthday.  He's is spending a few weeks at Camp Get-Away (my parents house!).   The 2 week vacation was a Christams gift to me from my parents - and now it's Tucker's birthday gift from me!  He's been getting lots of love and attention from my mom and dad - and for that he's very thankful.  I sent him a little package in the mail and hopefully mom and dad will take a few photos of him on his 3rd birfday!
Here are just some of my favorite memories of Tucker.  In just three years he has provided much entertainment, many laughs, some frustration - but most importantly he's an ever loyal, companion!

Can we still be friends?

I don't have the best record when it comes to my sinuses.  My senior year in college I remember having some sort of cold virus or sinus infection non-stop for four months.  I decided to settle the score by having surgery.  The college roomies likely remember the post-surgery nights - when I slept in the recliner in the living room based on the doctor's orders.  In fact, the worst part of that process was the fear that led up to my first sneeze post-surgery.

Several years have passed and I was free of sinus related sickness.  As more time passed they slowly creeped back into my life.  About that same time I happened to watch an Oprah episode where she featured the Neti Pot.  Now Oprah can get excited about almost anything (I like that about her!), but her audience members where sharing their own stories and raving about how this little watering can will change your life.  I didn't want to miss out on anything life changing - so I stopped at the drug store down the road only to find the shelves empty.  When I turned to the pharmacist in despair she smiled and informed me that since the Oprah episode they haven't able to keep them in stock.  Wow - I guess I wasn't the only one looking for a life changing experience.  I was lucky enough to snag one when their next shipment came in.  I've been using the neti pot off and on since that time.

In preparation for this season of busy-ness I decided to ramp up my precautionary measures in hopes of avoiding sickness.  I increased use of the neti pot, added some airborne to my daily routine and have been drinking as much water as possible.  Lately, I have even gone so far as to brag about my neti pot use.  When a friend or co-worker is sick I promot the neti pot to no end.  I only wish I got a commission for promoting the product!  After showing empathy for their sickness I would walk away believing my BFF the neti pot was going to save me from their misery.

Last Friday morning I woke up and knew I was in trouble.  I tried to deny it, but the symptoms only continued to worsen during the day.  By the time I left the client that night I proceeded directly to the drugstore near my house to stock up on supplies.  If the defensive team had failed me, I was ready to call on the offensive team.  Some of the star players include:

1. Zicam
2. Sudafed
3. Robitussin
4. Advil
5. Vicks Vapor Rub
6. Zinc
7. Kleenex
8. Water bottle (don't worry Haley - it's my stainless steel water bottle!)

After a long day of work on Saturday, I spent most of Sunday in bed.  I've been giving the offensive players quite the workout.  Let's hope there aren't any serious risks by mixing these medications, because I've lost track of how many doses I've taken in the past 24 hours.  My sneezes are GIGANTIC.  Seriously, the pictures hanging on the wall shake when I sneeze.  I have used no less than 378,942 kleenexes this weekend.  I'm not going to lie - I am having serious doubts about my relationship with the neti pot.  But after careful consideration I am hoping we can still be friends!  I'm not going to let this one bad experiences get in the way of our friendship.