Resolve to get a NEW LOOK

Yes Ladies & Gentlemen,

I've been so excited about my camera and the pictures, and playing with my computer, I've learned how to make some changes to my site. Your pages all look so very cool.

I hope you like???

As a New Years resolution, I resolve to keep this site looking fresh and new regularly.

This one I can do!!

I'm so excited about 2008...are you??

The Beauty of Mexico through the Camera

These aren't necessarily in chronological order, but I wanted to post some of the beauty we found in Mexico. I hope I was able to do it some justice through the lens of my new camera.

This is the first night at the Resort. I was sitting by the pool, watching Tyler swim, and playing with my new camera. I'm no photo expert...but I kinda liked how this one turned out.

This one was a few moments later...I was playing with the different settings on the camera. I'm completely a novice at this, but this is how we learn...right??

This one was taken near the film "Night of the Iguana" was filmed. On the tour, they stopped us at all these little places to spend our money. I mostly walked around and looked at the beauty that surrounded me.

This is a picture of the oldest church in Puerto Vallarta. It started construction in the 40's and finished in the 80's. It's beautiful inside and out.
See what I mean???

This picture was taken of the same church, but a few days later, and from the water. It had rained the night before, and was still relatively early in the morning.

While we were out on the ship, during one of our excursions, we came across a large school of dolphins, who had fun riding in the waves we made when we made a circle with the boat. There was about 100 of them and they were beautiful!!

And what kind of Christmas in the center of Puerto Vallarta would it be without a Santa Claus??

Spending Christmas day in town with the locals was a wonderful experience. It was a beautiful night, they truly celebrated the holiday. Here is a picture of the landscape from the port, overlooking where we were staying.

I'm still learning how to transfer the photos, but I wanted to share some of the beauty we saw. I'll post the "funny" pictures another day.

Back Safe & Sound

Hola!! Como Estas?

Hemos vuelto de nuestro viaje del día de fiesta a México.

Oops...sorry...

Yep, we've just returned from our holiday trip to Mexico. We finally walked through our door at about 2am this morning. It was an ab-so-friggin-lute-ly awesome!!!

The weather was beautiful, the people were gracious, the food was plentiful, and the tequila flowed freely. I could not have asked for a better holiday. It was good for us to go, and so fun to watch Ty try to speak their language and learn about their culture. We spent Christmas in down town Puerto Vallarta, where the locals were out and celebrating and having a glorious time. It wasn't about presents that evening, but about being with family and enjoying the true meaning of the holiday.

I did get to take some glorious pictures with my new camera. I can't wait to share some with you, but I did work today, and am feeling pretty tired. I promise to get some on the computer in the next few days. I learned all about taking the pics...now I have to figure out how to get them here. ;)

In the meantime, for those of you concerned about my shooting through the air and repelling down a waterfall, we did it ALL!! Everyone had so much fun and made it look so easy!! Me? Not so much. I didn't get hurt mind you, but I can PROUDLY say I did it and I'm DONE!!

Here's my little guy...he was so awesome!!

I got to the top of the first zip line, after riding a mule up the side of the mountain, and started to panic. It was HIGH and LONG. Breathe Grandy!! Then they asked for volunteers to go first and my son jumped up. Whaoaha??? I didn't say a word as I started to cry quietly, watching him get hooked up. I couldn't speak...why would I try and ruin it for him? At the same time I knew that he was only doing it to show me I didn't have to be so scared.

Well, for his sake...I did it. I was scared crazy stupid, but I did it. Here's a pic to prove it. Somehow I didn't look as comfortable up there as everyone else did...but I did it. Who cares...I can be comfy on my couch.


Will I do it again?? Probably not...but I can definitely say, "Been there, done that, got the T-Shirt". We rode about 10 zip lines that day, but I didn't bother with 10 t-shirts.

I'll post more about the "repelling down a waterfall" another day.

p.s. Did anyone notice how hot I look in a harness? No??? Maybe it's just me.

I will need a DRINK for this one!!!

Did I mention my fear of heights? Perhaps some of you may remember I had previously mentioned my fear of going downhill on my ATV?


Why must my friends and family insist on testing my bravery??


As you read this, today we are to participate in our "Ultimate Outdoor Adventure". For two months now I have been mentally preparing myself for this:

Then I get an email that confirms the trip, and reminds me to wear the appropriate shoes for this:

What???? Are these people friggin nuts??? WHY???? They ARE trying to kill me...aren't they?? What's that saying...with friends like these...???

***Please note that this post is supposed to be posted on 12/22/07. If it posts at any other time, then I really screwed up somewhere and I apologize. But please pray I make it back alive...I know I am!!***

What is your Christmas most like??

I love these guys anyway...

Your Christmas is Most Like: The Muppet Christmas Carol

You tend to reflect on Christmas past, present, and future... And you also do a little singing.

What Movie Is Your Christmas Most Like?

***Please be advised that Grandy intends for this post to show on 12/20/07. If it shows at any other time, then please be patient with her as she truly is a technological idiot and screwed something up in the advance post thing.***

Nature v. Nurture

Alright, this is my first official pre-written post.I'm going to see if I do this right, and schedule it to post at noon on Tuesday. If it works right...I'll be spacing in some other posts while I'm gone for the holiday (hopefully providing some sort of entertainment but making no promises).


As I sat at dinner with my boys last night, yes I'm including Hubby, I was stopped dead in my tracks about their similarities. Never mind they were both wearing the same sweatshirt (Go Placer) and hats. Their mannerisms were amazingly similar. I watch them and they are SO MUCH ALIKE!!!


Now, back when I only had 2 readers I may have mentioned that Hubby adopted Ty when we had been married 6 months. We had been together quite some time before that, but Hubby is the only Dad that Ty has ever known. I may vent from time to time, but I wouldn't have it any other way, let me tell you.


We started dating when Ty was 3 1/2, we actually met through this little guy. At the time, Hubby worked as a maintenance man at the same large company I worked at. The facility had an on-site day care, and when this company thought it would be brilliant to offer "extended hours", I was forced to have Ty in the day care until 8:30 pm. It wasn't all that bad, mind you. He was the ONLY kid there!! Well, that's when Hubby would make his rounds and rescue Snoopy from the toilet and fix whatever the kids broke that day, later in the evening. He used to let Ty follow him around and ask the perpetual "Whatchya doin? Why?? What for?? Why? Huh? Why??" ***Pssst*** Don't tell anyone, but years later I learned that Hubby had told the ladies at this day care that if he ever had a kid, he'd want one like Ty.


Well one day I'm dropping Ty off at the day care, Hubby comes walking up and says, "Hi Tyler, is this your Mom??" "Yep, this is my Mommy...Her name is Mawy" (yes, he had issues with his "r"s) "Mawy...I mean Mommy...this is aawon". That's my favorite quote ever!!!We didn't start dating right away. Shortly after meeting, Ty got pretty sick and was in and out of the hospital for a short time. I was new to my job and couldn't afford to miss too much. I would spend hours at the hospital and then go to work. Thank goodness for my sister, who at the time didn't work and lived 2 doors down from me. Every time I saw hubby during that time he would ask me, "Hey, Tyler's Mom! Is Tyler ok?" How nice is that? There were 1200 people in these buildings, 12 maintenance men, and he would ask about MY SON.


When the dust settled...about six months later...I asked him out. I remember the day I realized I should vividly. It was a Saturday (yes the company thought that would be "brilliant" also) and he came running by me by the elevators. Helmet under his arm and leather jacket in the other. "Hey Tyler's Mom!! Is he here today??" he asked. "He sure is!" I replied. "Great! I'll have to go see him." As he ran through the security doors, I watched him and thought to myself, "I will be with that man".


Now, you have to know me to understand that at that moment I didn't fully understand to what capacity I would be with him...just that I would. I asked him out a week later...and the rest is, well...you know...destiny.

How do I work this??

I don't think I ever explained that the reason I don't post many pics on this site is because I don't have an actual camera. Any pics I've posted I've confiscated off the internet, or taken with my cell phone. The cell phone does pretty well, I think.

Well...as you all are asking me for glorious pics of our holiday...I have to share with you my Christmas present. It's actually for both of us though, although Hubby will swear he's still "entitled" to a gift he's the one that REALLY wanted this.

I'm just the kind of person that likes to "aim and shoot" but he is all into the lenses and stuff. Now I'll get to take some glorious pics of our trip to Mexico...as soon as I learn how to work it. Guess there will be time to read the owner's manual on the plane.

I'm not going to want to come home...you do realize that, right??

All you people that post beautiful pics...watch out!! I'm not promising beauty...but always a story behind each one. :)

My Christmas Adventures

Holy Canoli Batman!! Is it the end of the day already? End of the weekend? I can't believe it, only a few more days before we leave for our holiday adventure. My DSL was down the other day, and I've spent all weekend getting last minute things done for our trip.

I know I've hinted at this wonderful trip we're taking. I suppose it's time to share...are you ready?? Feast your eyes on where the Grandy family is spending Christmas!!

Palm Trees...Pools...Beaches...Beautiful Weather...Santa's sending us to Vallarta Palace in Nuevo Vallarta (just outside of Puerto Vallarta).

Not jealous enough?? Take a look at this pic!

Last year for Christmas we hosted all families and had almost 20 people in our home. At the end of the night we jokingly asked ourselves if there was a place we could go this year and just get away (not really recognizing we could). Then our dear friends told us where they were going, round about September. I didn't think the Hubby would want to go because he always says he won't go where he can't drink the water...always trying to get my goat that guy.

Well...low and behold, back in October he agreed we could go. We all got our passports and had the trip paid for by November. We leave WEDNESDAY!!! We're going to be in Mexico from 12/19 thru 12/26/07. I can't wait!!!!!

Ty is counting the hours, our friends are all set (they also have just one son close to Ty's age) and we are off to our all inclusive resort. Talk about working on that work/life balance thing!!

That being said, I am going to try and pre-write some posts, so you won't have to go SO LONG without me. I know it sounds weird, but I'm certain you all know I'll be coming back with PLENTY of blog stories too. :)

Now, I just have to make sure my son remembers how to say, "Donde esta el bano?" and we'll be alright. When in doubt...you always have to know where the potty is.

Holiday Sweaters

I was all primed to post about a lovely time I had yesterday, seated at a table near 7 elderly women, all wearing holiday sweaters, and exchanging gifts.

It just made me think...I hope I get to grow old. I don't know if I necessarily want to wear a holiday sweater, but I want to be able to talk to my girlfriends about the way things used to be and the good old days, and mean it. These women were so sweet and appreciative of their little handmade gifts from eachother. It really made me feel good, and as I left, I went to their table and wished them all a Merry Christmas. I explained that although I was seated by myself, I thoroughly enjoyed their gift exchange vicariously through them.

All festive with the holiday spirit, I ventured into Blogthings and thought it would be fun to post another quiz. Of course, being my sarcastic self, I thought I would see what Crappy gift I would be (still reeling from Mrs. G's post about her white elephant gift) and look what crappy gift I am...can you believe it?? Oh well...

You Are a Christmas Sweater!

Over the top, colorful, and totally flashy. You're not afraid to be a little tacky.

What Crappy Christmas Gift Are You?

Mystery Solved...I found Das Boot

Thank you to all of you for your suggestions.

WOW!! I posted a message to Urban on her BloMo page and she's responded back.

She's fine, but had to shut it down as blogging was taking over... Boy can I relate!!

Thanks to everyone for your ideas. You truly are AWESOME!!!

Have you seen these boots?

Missing: Cute Pink Boots

Last Seen: November 30th

Aliases: Urban Pedestrian

These boots were not made for walking, they belonged to a great blogger, URBAN PEDESTRIAN, who seems to have disappeared. She had a great site and for BLOMO she answered a question every day. She always had great posts, a quick wit, and I was always thrilled when there was a comment from her. I remember there was a line on her blog that said something like "I think therefore I am, I am therefore I think, and sometimes I stop and tie my shoes". She is AWESOME!!

**Sniff** she was one of my BLOMO "friends"...have you seen her??

For a few days now I've gone looking for her but alas, to no avail. Her site is no longer there? I'm new enough to blogging to not quite understand what happens when someone just disappears. Do they start up another blog somewhere else? Do they just follow blogs for fun? Did I miss something in the site address? I know she had some computer issues for a few days in November.

If you happen to find this post, Urban, we miss you!! If I'm an idiot and you've somehow changed the site, please let me know how to find you! If this makes me a blog stalker, I don't mean to be. I know I'm not the most organized person in the world, but how do I misplace a website??

I wonder if the "Without a Trace" FBI people would take this case and assign an entire team to search for the Pink Boots...

Fifty is NIFTY

Last night I learned something about hubby...he's getting jealous of my new hobby. He says that during NaBlo, he tried to spend some time with me, but I was at my computer blogging (said with such contempt that it made me giggle). HUH!!!

After the week I had, last night I thought it would be nice to sit next to Hubby and just unwind. After all, it was the first night all week I had been home before midnight, if at home at all. I didn't care what was on the TV, I just wanted to exist peacefully, with him next to me. I had Ty leaning on my other side...total bliss. THIS is what family is...being together.

When Ty went to bed, Hubby and I were talking and he said we hadn't just sat like that in "SO LONG...MONTHS" he said. "Not since before I started blogging." I carefully reminded him I only started blogging in October, and November was a "special month" (but not like little yellow school bus special or anything), but he was having none of my excuses. (Alright...I really hadn't thought about how much time I spend on the computer, or how he felt about it.) I told him that if I had a laptop, I could sit next to him AND blog! How cool would that be?? Oh yea, the rolling of the eyes marathon shortly followed. **He Loves me...he loves me NOT... :)

So as I logged in today, to try and catch up on some other blogs, I realized this post was #50. That may not seem like such a huge milestone, but I gotta tell you...it's neat. Amy Derby has reminded me that milestones should be celebrated. I like her 100 Posts and Articles I've Dubbed Worthy of a Little Link Love post she did for her 100th post. Maybe I'll have to come up with something like that when I hit 100.

Until then...I'll be happy with a subdued "YEAH ME!" for now.

How many posts do you have? Do I have far to catch up?? Should I bother??

I C more of U

No, I have not been gone as a result of the writer's strike (just in case you were wondering).

I am pleased to report that my sister has made it through her surgery and is doing quite well. She's absolutely AMAZING!! It's been a long week all the way around, and I am sorry I have had no time, energy, or mental capacity to post on my blog. I have thought about so many of you, though...not much else to do while sitting in ICU waiting. I could have used some of my Mrs. G, my dee/otc, and Michele. My Funny, Crazy and Inspirational blogging buds (in that order I might add).

And so many of you other awesome bloggers. Thank you!! I have had some new visitors to this sight, and feel remiss that I have not been able to visit. I will catch up, I promise!!! :)

That being said, I thought I would share with you a few anecdotes about the hospital that I experienced this week...Enjoy...

1) For the first couple of days, it's probably not safe to leave large bread crumbs on the floor so you can find your way back to the parking garage. Rather, just strategically place stickies on the wall...no one will notice...really! (Not that I tried this myself)

2) Go potty BEFORE you go into the ICU. See, if you have to go while you're there (which I had to do frequently) then you have to ring to get back in. My favorite was at 3am on Friday/Saturday when I got up to go, no one else is around really as it's not one of the heavy traffic times, and when I rang to get back in, the lady says, "I'm sorry, who are you??" Seriously? I just walked by your desk going to the bathroom, and have been here ALL NIGHT!! I'm the one who complimented YOUR HAIR!! But alas, it was 3am...I refrained from sarcasm and explained who I was...again.

3) Tripping over stuff CAN be hazardous to your health AND your pride. I'm a bit clumsy (I think I've mentioned this) and was the joke of the unit because it seemed like whenever I turned, I was kicking a ventilator machine, tripping on a cath tube, or something stupid. I never hurt my sister, other than causing her, the unit, and any family member in the room to laugh at me again. Laughing is healthy though, so I am glad I could help with that.

4) You can learn a lot from the families in the ICU waiting room. There were some wonderful people in there. What is it about being in there, having somewhat of a common bond, that people are so open?? We helped one young lady melt at the idea that her mom would not make it out, prayed with her, and saw her released from ICU by morning. There was another amazing woman there with her son, we cried together as she received the news he would not make it.

5) Nurses are more important than Doctors!!!! I know the doctors come in, wave their magic wand pens, and give orders to help heal you. But it's the nurses that CARE for the patients. They answer questions, give you the meds, bring your meals, hold your hand and hand you a tissue when you cry. They push you out of bed to get you strong, and help you back to get you rest. They help the family understand and help the patients cope.

Thank you to ALL nurses!!!!

What IS It About that Brown Guy??

Today was a "Manic Monday"...
Of course it was!! It was Monday!!
Has anyone even heard of a "Manic Tuesday"? I think not!

I was really starting to feel bah-humbug like. Not feeling very much in the holiday spirit. Maybe I needed a nap? Nope...just a reminder.

I came home to witness my first boyfriend on TV. Yep, that's right, me and Charlie go WAY BACK!! Ladies, don't try to fight me on this one. He's all mine!!!

Have you seen him lately? His sarcasm is GLORIOUS!! It's been years since I've seen his specials, but as I rushed home to hang out with my son (Hubby is out of town) A Charlie Brown Christmas was on. This was truly the treat I needed to get into the spirit. Why? Because it reminds you of what Christmas is about!!!

I wonder if I could take a quiz (or make one) that would tell me what kind of Charlie Brown character I could be?? Can you guess which one I would be? I'd probably be Peppermint Patti. :)

Thanks, Charlie Brown, for giving me the down time with Ty and for reminding me what the holiday season is about. Charles Schultz is pure genius!!!

A Song for Chinchi

When I was 9 my big sister was 18 and moving off to college. That was the worst day of my 9 year existence when we drove her to college (and not just because I was again stuck in the far back of the station wagon with the luggage).

I call my sister Chinchi. I'm not sure why, maybe because my Dad always did and so it stuck. Maybe it has something to do with a chinchilla? Nahh...Dad never needed a reason to make up a nickname.

Chinchi was always my hero growing up. I have vivid memories of us having our own special moments, some of which I'm not even sure why or how I remember. For instance, when I was 4 and in the hospital (she would have been 13), I remember the nurses sending her away so they could give me my shots. I screamed silly for her...ok maybe a little because they were going to give me multiple shots...but mostly for her!

Chinchi always used to babysit us if Mom and Dad had somewhere to go. There were so many hours she would play airplane with me and my twin. We played and played and PLAYED!! Looking back now, I don't know how she tolerated it so much. She was SO GOOD!! Chinchi was my HERO!!!! I looked up to everything she did.

Chinchi became a very skilled nurse (no surprise to anyone), married a mild mannered man (who's a great guy) and has a wild firecracker daughter (she swears our kids were switched at birth because Kay is the spitting image of me in more ways than one). When I watch Kay grow, I realize that Chinchi is the only one who has the patience for such energy and spirit. And who trained her???? Yep, you guessed it!!

Chinchi is going in for open heart surgery this week. She's strong and has always been known as "the healthy one". I'm sure she will pull through just fine, but I can't help but be worried for her. Am I being so Polyanna like that I'm assuming the sun will be out "tomorrow"? Perhaps, but Chinchi works in ICU and sees the worst case of all scenarios. Maybe she could use a bit more Polyanna in her life.

I can offer her no consolation in medical terms but I can give her the one thing I've never gotten by without...MUSIC!! I'm downloading a bunch of songs onto her MP3 for her so she can listen to them through her recovery. I promised her I would only mix in a "little" hip hop, just to make sure the ticker is still working. Can you imagine if the machines started pinging to some Gwen Stefani? AWESOME!!!

Dear Lord, please grant me the strength to not enter into every situation with a joke at the end of my tongue. Please shut me up when my nerves approach that level when I feel like I must spew sarcasm or flee. I will be strong enough for Chinchi, Mom, Mike, Kay, and the others.

Bonus Post...Because I CAN!!

Alright, so hubby will be watching to see if I can go a day without posting. It's not that I CAN'T, it's just that I don't know if I want to. I have to ease out of this 30 day commitment thing early.

I found myself reading all my blogger buds' posts until after midnite so I thought I would post an extra one. This way...hubby doesn't even have to know. I do no longer feel compelled to copy the post over to the NoMoPoMo site, but YOU are still stuck with me.

Mwuahaha!!!

So...just a quick little dialogue to crack you up before I go to bed. This is an actual conversation I had with one of our consultants over the phone the other day. It's been 3 days and I'm still playing it over and over again.

Consultant: Alright, read back to me the three questions I told you to ask.
Me: Alrighty, "When was the last time you touched 'The Unit'?"
---Pregnant Pause---
Consultant: Mary, are you still there?
Me: Yes, but I'm stuck on that question.
Consultant: Why?
Me: When you said it, it was no problem. But when I say it, I somehow feel a bit...um...dirty.
Consultant: HA!! You know I wondered if the question would faze you.
Me: Oh, I'm fazed...and now I need a bath.

Thank you folks...I'm here all week!! Give or take...G'Nite!!!

Whew! What a Ride!

This picture so epitomizes how I feel about completing my first NaBloPoMo!!! Thanks to Melissa for creating it and sharing it with some of us technically challenged folks.

Only a few of you realize that I had only started blogging in October. When dee/otc had challenged me to commit to this, I thought she was NUTS!! I'm the one with commitment issues...remember?

Well, I am so grateful that I did. Without it I might have never stumbled across so many incredible bloggers!! I am truly humbled by some of the talent out there. There are so many fascinating people out there. I secretly stalk some of my favorites and can't wait to see what new post they have for the day. Wait...I guess I don't do it secretly if I post a comment. (Note to self...be more stealth!)

My friends and family have been very patient about my blogging habits (obsessions) and for that I am most appreciative. I did explain to my husband that although this is the end of the NaBloMoFo for the year...I'm hardly done blogging! I may take a couple days here and there, but I doubt I'll think about it less. I still have so much to tell you!! Have you heard about the Grandy family holiday plans to Mexico? No?? Then you'll have to come back and see!

Alright...enough of the ding dang darn acceptance speech. I hardly have any awards in my future...unless there is to be a prize??? Eden??

Oh...and if you've read some of the earlier posts...have you noticed I've hit the double digits in comments a couple times? I know this means nothing to you profound and prolific bloggers like Mrs. G., URBAN PEDESTRIAN, Michele and Amy Derby. But to newbies like me? It's AWESOME!!

Thanks for stopping by and for commenting!! Keep them coming!!!!

Does this mean I'm a Squid??

Well fellow bloggers, I am afraid I have to make this blog a quick one. Crazy day has landed me into crazier night. I am currently at a Sleep Study Center. I have had one whirlwind day and now I have to relax enough to sleep with enough electrodes stuck to my head to be able to run a microwave.

Must breathe...and relax...and sleep!

I'll be back with more thorough comments tomorrow.

One more day for NaBloPoMo...It's amazing I've made it this far. Until then, please enjoy this quiz... I'm confused by this one...but the picture cracked me up. I'm a deer but I LOOK like a squid??

Your Animal Personality

Your Power Animal: Deer Animal You Were in a Past Life: Panda You are a fun-seeker - an adventurous, risk-taker. While you are spontaneous, you are not very rational.

The Animal Personality Test

Carpool Anyone??

I drive 45 miles to work...each way. Don't worry, you're not going to get the same ol' "in the snow, up hill, both ways." However, 45 miles each way can make for a long commute on some days. Here is a picture of what I face in the morning. (This is truly a picture of the freeway I take to work...Google Images is awesome!!)

It's not so bad, if you have a fun car to drive in...which I do. Really, this is my car. I didn't take a picture of my car at the beach (and I actually can't wait to take my car to the beach) but this is the same color, model, convertible, everything is same as mine. I really do recommend that if you've not done so, you buy a car because it's fun...at least once in your life. This car got better mileage than my old car and is just FUN.

AND...since I've gotten my car, I have acquired a very cool Carpool friend. She started working with my company almost a year ago and has an even longer drive than I do. I really love having her as my carpooler. She's smart, kind, and funny as all get out. Remember how I said I am Laverne without my Shirley?? Well, we'll just call her "Shirl".

On days that I don't have my carpool friend, sometimes we have appointments that take us in opposite directions, I am completely lonely and lost. I watch people speed by in the carpool lane by me. Monday it took me TWO HOURS to get to work. TWO??? At some point I almost called my boss and said, "It's just not worth it, I'm going home!" But, being the consumate professional, and knowing the workload I had waiting for me, I went in anyway. I wasn't happy about it. Who would be?? GEESH!! I found myself trying to listen to soft music, doing some deep breathing exercises. When I finally made it to work, I felt like I had already put in a full day.

Shirl and I laugh all the time in the car. Even if we're talking workload and bouncing ideas off each other (this lady is SHARP). When I have to drive by myself, it lacks something. It lacks the humor!

I've now found the perfect sign that I wish we could have on our way to the office. This would have SO made my 2 hour drive that much better! Let's face it, we've got to find the humor in things, if we can't have humor with us.


Think this guy still has his job???

Who was I kidding? Re-Do!

Yesterday's blog was killing me. I don't think some of you realize how truly difficult it was for me not to be entirely sarcastic through the entire ABC meme. I know some of it showed through, but it was definitely work to remain subdued.

Soooo...how to remedy it? Have some more fun!!

I'm going to put a spin on the meme and just go through the alphabet with words I just think are fun to say. Some will be about me, some about others, and some will just be way out there (oh wait...that's still about me isn't it?). See if you can pick out what my friends, family and co-workers would refer to as "Maryisms".

While we're at it, let's pretend I'm doing a field sobriety test and do the alphabet backwards. (For the record, I have never driven while intoxicated. I do, however, have friends in law enforcement who think it's fun to run these tests by me, even when sober.)

Z - Zit - Not a word to describe me...but a fun word to say.

Y - Yummylicious - It's truly all encompassing.

X - Rated...never mind...won't go there...TMI

W - WHATEVER! - Not a big fan when used against me, but it is fun.

V - Vulva

U - Uvula - It's such a great word, and when you say it, the first reaction is to confuse it with the previous word. Kinda almost just like it...but different.

T - Thespian - Yet another word that gets confused with...sounds like...you know...

S - Skosh - As in move over just a ____

R - Red-Headed Butt Knuckle - I know...do butts have knuckles?

Q - Qualm - the word that sounds like "calm" but is the total opposite. Back to the whole "U" "V" thing again.

P - Polyvinylrododospagaspamomo - Not a fun word to say or spell, but it has Po & Mo in it...I'm pretty sure if you jumble the letters, you'll find the whole NaBloPoMo in there a few times.

O - Ostentatious - You instantly sound smart when you use that word, and at the same time become the word.

N - Naked - Fun to say only? I think not.

M - Muttonchops - Just one question...WHY??

L - Lint Licker - Hubby picked that one up somewhere and uses it on his buddies and NO, I don't know why.

K - Kazoo - Now I understand why Mom hated those.

J - Jugular - Serious body part there...seems a bit week because if touched, you're going down.

I - Impotent - As a kid I apparently used to walk around using that word and confusing it with incompetent. Not sure there is a difference really.

H - Hoary - As in "extremely old" and not the mis-spelled "whorey" you all thought I was. Both are equally fun to say...coincidence? I think NOT!!

G - Gobbleygook - My word for "sticky stuff".

F - Fungus - It just screams come hither, doesn't it??

E - Ecdysiast - First one to find out the definition of this word wins a "boobie prize".

D - "Derfwad" - Thank you, Mrs. G.!!

C - Catawumpas - I guess I sleep like that on the bed a lot

B - Beeyotch!! - Quite the popular word

A - A-Hole - I really do use that one quite regularly. Not the a$$ that you are assuming I mean either...I truly say a-hole. Sometimes I pair it with, "There's a-hole in the bucket, Dear Liza, Dear Liza..."

And the best part about this meme? No Tags!!

Have a great Hump Day tomorrow!!

ABCDEFG...la la la la la la la

Well, this could be interesting. dee/otc has tagged me for another meme. I have to tell you people, this woman truly amazes me!! She's got a spirit about her that will knock you over. I'm not sure I can do as well as she did with her ABC Meme (check it out at ABC…easy as 1-2-3, my butt) but I will try.

She says the rules of the game go like this: "List a word that describes you for every letter of the alphabet. Offer as much or as little explanation as you wish. Please keep the words positive (for example, don’t use “fat” for F or “lame” for L), and feel free to get creative. Tag as many or as few people as you wish. Link back to your tagger and forward to your taggees." - Wait... I have to be NICE?? About me?????? Seriously?? Wait...I can be nice but don't have to be serious. Let's see how this works.

Well...here goes...(think positive happy thoughts, Grandy)

A - Awesome!!! No, not me, but I do use that word regularly so I thought I'd start off with that one. If that is cheating...so be it...I'll be awesome then.

B - Blue eyed - It's one of my best features.

C - Cunning - There's a fine line between being diplomatic and calling someone an a-hole...I walk it quite often. It's truly a skill I'm proud of.

D - Directionally Challenged - It's not necessarily a negative about me...I've gotten quite used to making frequent U-Turns.

E - Entertaining - It's always an adventure when someone is with me. I don't even have to try and the fun just happens. Even if it's not intended to be funny...we'll find the humor in it.

F - Friggin FUN - Need I say more??

G - Grateful - I've worked very hard for everything I have and appreciate all the people that helped make it possible.

H - Happy!! - It's unfortunately taken me quite a while to even know what it would take to make me happy, much less recognize it. I am proud to say that I honestly am...and it's very cool.

I - Imaginative - I love the creative process and so appreciate other people's imagination.

J - Jokester - I love having fun with people. It's even more fun when they get the joke.

K - Klutzy - Kinda self-explanatory, but do you know anyone else who had to chase their vehicle from going down the road (without a driver) and got drug through their own property, where their own vehicle hit a tree after going through their fence...Still caught on the car too. What a ride!!

L - Likable - I'd like to think so.

M - Music lover - I can get through anything if I have music to listen to.

N - Nutty - Not like honey roasted nuts...but the Yellow Peanut M&M type.

O - Open - I do not judge people by what they look like or who they like. Ok, I might make assumptions about people if they smell, but that's totally a reflex response. I'll still like them...just from more of a distance.

P - Prolific - I promised dee/otc that I would work that word in.

Q - Quitter - I have successfully quit smoking...again...this time is for good...I mean it!!

R - Resourceful - MacGuyver has got nothing on me. I'm not mechanically inclined, but I can make things happen.

S - Sincere - What you see is what you get...what I say is what I mean.

T - Tenacious - My motto is "That which does not kill me, makes me strong" and when I'm gone, my tombstone will say just that...followed by "Ooops!"

U - Unique - Unparalleled - Unmatched - Undoubtedly so!

V - Voluptuous - It's no fun to describe myself as "full figured".

W - Witty - When the big boss tries to refer his comments as, "I just made a 'Maryism'" I'm either doing something right, or something has horribly gone wrong.

X - treme - There isn't anything I wouldn't do for my family and friends. Nurse them back from surgery, drive hours to make sure they're ok, I will even go shopping at a mall if I have to...and that says A LOT since I hate malls.

Y - Young Hearted - aka...childish, I mean child like...but "C" was already taken.

Z - Zealous - Yep...that's right...I'm full of......................ZEAL.

Whew!! That was a tough one!!! It was fun...but hard to think of that many positive things about me.

Alright...time for tagging...AND please understand I tag you because I really want to see what you come up with:

Linda, who has a lovely affinity for martinis.
Suzanne, because I know how therapeutic it can be to think of fun, positive things.
Michele, who I know will somehow find a way to inspire us all with the words she comes up with.
Renie Burghardt because I know I can learn a lot from this neat lady.
And I could never forget the lovely Mrs. G. who makes me laugh EVERY DAY!!!

New Meaning to Knot Head

Yep, I've returned from my glorious Thanksgiving holiday with the family and friends. I couldn't believe how many people turned out! Shoot...should have taken picture to show, it's really quite a site to see about 20 trailers circled around.

I have returned rejuvenated, I think. I have an idea for a freelance article, and the outline, that I plan to write and submit. I met new people, caught up with some old people (friends really, but after we all went riding around the hills and hiking, we all walked like old people), and still got absolutely no homework done on my "self-study" course (I've been spending so much time on "self" lately, I have completely omitted the "study" part). I also think I got enough blogging content to sail me through the last week of NaBloPoMo (although none of that content is here tonight...I'm pooped and feeling scattered). I'm ab-so-friggin-lutely thrilled I was able to post even the most feeble post (see karaoke post) to stay with my commitment to this.

So, are you wanting to know the only downside of the weekend? Not really? Didn't really feel motivated to read this far?? I don't blame you, but do appreciate your tenacity.

Has anyone camped in a desert for 4 days without being to wash your hair? Anyone? I did the sponge bath thing, but couldn't take a shower. Well, I can not tell you the amount of knots I had in my hair. I feel I'm losing an unusual amount of hair as it is, and I tried to wear a hat all weekend to protect it, but it didn't help. The knots were nuts!! That's the only part I don't look forward to when I get home...the KNOTS!!

I'm pretty sure I could donate the amount of hair that comes out of my head that first night back. SOMEONE could use it for a wig, or a school project, or heck...I heard you can even use it to ward off gophers? I'm not sure about that one, but there has to be a way.

So, if any of you beautiful people have any ideas as to how I might avoid the pain when I get home, please feel free to share. Killer's vote doesn't count, because I suspect he would suggest I shave my head (although I did contemplate it). Anyone?? Grooming is something I struggle with...but I'm trying here.

I got the music in me

Alright, still out camping, and drinking around the campfire. Have so many great blogging things to share but will have to do that when I get back. While we wait...let's see what Karaoke song you would be.

Take my test...p.s. I do secretly like all these songs they've listed for me.

Your Karaoke Theme Song is "Baby Got Back"

You're a total show off who is willing to risk looking like a fool to get a few laughs. In fact, you'll go for the cheap laugh if you need to... because it's better than no reaction! Your friends can count on you to get a party started, and you'll party hard until you can't remember their names. You're charismatic, charming, and a total character. With or without a few drinks in you. You might also sing: "I Touch Myself," "Oops I Did it Again," or "My Humps" Stay away from people who sing: "Candle in the Wind"

What's Your Karaoke Theme Song?

I'm a Big Girl Now!!

Reporting live, from the heart of Moon Rock, Nevada.

Don't be alarmed if you don't know where that is...Neither do I.

We are about 20 miles north of Reno, Nevada, on some large BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Land. Here we are, in the middle of dessert land, with about 20 trailers circled. It honestly looks like a modern day Donner Party. Everyone is huddled around the fires, we had turkey in our trailers, and we are surrounded by dirt bikes and Quads.

I believe I mentioned my thing with going down hills on my quad? Well, if not, I'm telling you now. Maybe it's the whole experience of going off a 40' embankment in a truck, where we hit the tree, that makes me have a different kind of relationship with gravity.

I can't explain the anxiety that comes over me when I get to the top of a steep hill. My heart races and I'm pretty sure I stop breathing. I break out in an instant sweat and I have all the women staring back up at me. These girls are awesome! One of the ladies usually offers to come get me if I end up stuck. I can go up any hill there is, and usually go around the long way to get down. I become paralyzed at the top.

Well, I am pleased to report that today, I mustered up the strength to get my hiney down hill. The quad stalled and I had to coast down the steep hill in neutral, but I made it. I'm not too proud to admit that I screamed like a girl (thank goodness I am one) but I did. I was so excited!! These ladies have ridden with me for years, some were new, but it was an awesome reception when I got to the bottom. Let me tell you.

Let's hope I can do it again tomorrow. But for tonight, I'm going to celebrate my tiny step in the downhill direction.

Gobble Gobble!!

Well blogging friends, I'm rushing out the door to our camping trip. I have convinced my friend to bring her laptop so I can post from there. However, signal may be limited and we may have to drive to the nearest town.

That being said...my posts could be somewhat limited in content the next few days (ok, more limited than usual).

Happy Turkey Day to you ALL and may you get to Gobble Gobble, and Drink Drink!!

By the way...did anyone happen to see where I set my bottle of tequila? I'll be darned if that thing doesn't keep running off on me. Oh well, may have to switch to vodka this trip. Shaken...not stirred gang!!

What I'm Thankful For

Nope, this is not a meme...it's not a ranting...heck...I'm not even sure it will turn out funny, but knowing me, I'll give it my best (while making no promises).

Things I'm thankful for...

1. Family Traditions - Every year we (run away) go camping for Thanksgiving. A large group of friends (and seems to be getting larger every year...do I know you people?) circle our toy trailers, and we have turkey dinner amidst the sound of dirt bikes and children. It's Awesome.


2. My car!! I have a really fun car, and have never before owned a car because it was fun. It's not fancy, not a luxury car...but it's mine. I'll have to dedicate a whole blog post just to my car (but will do that on a weekend post when no one cares but me).


3. My health...no seriously people. Despite all the problems I've had, I am lucky to be able to have my family tradition, and drive my car because my health has not gotten to a point where I can't. I've been there before, and am grateful for another year that I've kept it at bay.
   
4. My new blogging hobby. I only stumbled across blogging by sheer accident. I had googled an old friend and found her blog. Saw that she had been using this as a great way to express herself and get her thoughts down, and thought...Hey! I can do that!! Now here I am posting every day and actually considering submitting some writing material.

Thank you to all who have stumbled across my blog, and stopped to comment. I've gained a few readers through NaBloPoMo, but am thrilled that I've gained some blogging buddies too. I'm truly blessed with great readers!! Happy Thanksgiving to you all, and enjoy your families and friends!!!

Are YOU a Good Friend?? Take the Test...

Suzanne seems to be having a friend problem. We've all had one or two of those. But let's ask ourselves...what kind of friends are we?

Can you take the test?? Here's mine...

You Are a Good Friend Because You're Honest

Like it or not, your friends are going to hear the truth from you. You know that the truth hurts, but living a life of lies is much worse. So while you're definitely kind and supportive, you don't pull any punches with your friends. Everyone knows where they stand with you. And what you like and dislike about them. While some may be initially turned off by your honesty, your friends have come to consider it a virtue. After all, in world of white lies and deceptive politeness, you can be counted on for honesty and integrity. Your friends need you most when: They need good advice or an intelligent opinion You really can't be friends with: Needy, emotional people Your friendship quote: "True friendship can afford true knowledge. It does not depend on darkness and ignorance."

What Makes You a Good Friend?

Don't Tell Anyone

Pssst! Over here!!

Can you keep a secret? Promise? You mustn't tell a SOUL!!

Remember how I mentioned that to be with me it's always an adventure? I'm like Laverne without her Shirley, Lucy without her Ethel. I usually have to warn my girlfriends, if it's going to be a one-on-one day, to watch out. We're going to have some 'splainin' to do when we get done. Well, I have to tell you, it's worse when I'm by myself.

I have to get something off my chest, and feel close enough to you that I might be able to trust you. I once got caught...dumpster diving. You know, diggin' through the trash, mining for goodies. Well, I wasn't actually looking for goodies.

Really, there was a good reason!!

I was cleaning out my car at the gas station, because I absolutely live in it during the week, and was throwing out the random trash from boys in the back seat. I pumped my gas AND checked my oil. I was feeling quite productive and like Supermom!! Able to multi-task in a single bound.

I got back in the car, humming a little song, and went for my keys. Beyond that, I suddenly had an "other" body experience, ya know the kind...where you wish you were someone "other"? I vaguely remember it going something like this:

Keys? WTF? What did I do with my flippin' keys?? Mustn't panic...Look around car...notice large trash can...NO WAY!! They're not in there!! Check the car again, oh sure NOW I clean it. Ok...check under the hood. I had just checked the oil after all. How about the hood? I can't tell you how many things I've lost because I drove off with it on top of the car. Nope...not there!! SHOOT!! Good news is there is no one else at the gas station. NO ONE!! Dare I? What are my options? Call Hubby and have he and son drive 20 miles to get me another set of the keys...while NEVER hearing the end of it until I die?? I'm not thinkin' so. Ummmm...running out of options. Perhaps I can get them out of the top? Here goes...

Ewww...what a smell!! Ok, like the little blue napkin thingy is really helping protect my hands. (Quick...buy stock in Propel NOW!) I remove the lid and look around the top...no keys. DARN!! Don't tell me the darn things took the plunge to the bottom, like they do with my purse.

Just as I get about elbow deep in the can, a car pulls up and stops just next to me. Frozen, and having a new understanding for what deer feel like when caught, I thought if I stood there, no one would notice this lone white woman, who seems bathed and ok, with her entire arm in the trash can. Out walks the most distinguished looking white haired man I've ever seen. Get me out of here!!

Grandy: *Self-Conscious smile* Hi
Handsome white haired man: You CAN'T be having a good day.
Grandy: *Still Smiling* I can't find my keys, I'm afraid I've thrown them in the trash.
HWHM: *Now standing right next to Grandy, looking in the trash* Mind if I watch?
Grandy: Huh??
HWHM: Frankly, my wife's sister just got to the house so I really have NO HURRY to get anywhere, and I get the feeling this is going to be the best laugh I'm gonna get all weekend.
Grandy: Um...Nope...I'm good. But thank you folks, I'm here all week.

Out of sheer horror, and this sudden urge to fake fainting, I pulled my arm out and said, maybe I should check my car again. I walk around the other side, and this time reach into my pocket. ACK!! MY KEYS!! No time to show my excitement at finding them. Now have to somehow exit stage left with any remote shred of self respect I could pull out of my shoes.

Must think fast...how to make this happen...HWHM is still standing there, but his back is to me at the moment. I quickly run to the garbage can, grab keys out of pocket, knock them against the can and say "HERE THEY ARE!!" HWHM can't hide the disappointment as he shakes his head. "Good luck with the sister-in-law," I shout to him. Gotta run!!

I pull out of there as if I'm in the Daytona Grand Prix (or whatever it's called) drive about 2 blocks, pull over, and thrust my head repeatedly on to the steering wheel.

Why do I do this to myself?? I need help....but for now...just another bath.

3 + 8 = 11

You know how they say boys mature slower than girls?? Well, I've discovered a math theory that made things suddenly make sense to me. Ok, so it didn't uncover the meaning of life, nor did David Krumholz walk in and explain the route the killer would have taken to pick up his dry-cleaning. (Have you seen this show, NUMB3RS? It's pretty good.)

YIKES!! I'm digressing again.

Anywho...Today is Hubby's Birthday!! He's 38 today!! Happy Birthday, Honey!! I know you are never going to read this blog in a million years (I tell him all about my posts, and he's not into computers) but in the slight chance you stumble accross it in your search for the newest lift kit on the CJ Jeep, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Hubby and I have always had our little jokes about our ages. (Alright, mostly he made the jokes at my expense, and I would nod my head pretending I either a- thought it was funny, or b- had never heard it before.) Because of all my accident prone occassions, and my health issues, he used to joke that he was always going to trade me in on younger models of me that still had a warranty. At 35, I am currently at the value of trade-in for two almost legal versions of me. He is just ticking the hours until he can joke that he'll be able to now shop legally for the legal models.

Well Hubby...I've now figured out where you've been while in your 30's. You've been hanging out with our son...literally! As we drove home from dinner with Hubby's Mom, and I was amazed at how it seems my 11 year old son's manners have somehow gotten lost in the dryer, along with his other socks, I was asking myself how I ended up with two boys so much alike (nature v. nurture does wonders in this house). Then I suddenly did the math...3 + 8 = 11!!

You've seen these theories, right?

Son acts like Hubby
Son is 11
Hubby acts like he's 11.

Ok, so maybe I got some of that right. But it all started making sense to me!! When Hubby turned 30, we had just been dating for a few months. Every year since, he has slowly been maturing, although not surpassing the age of my son. (Insert "Bless His Heart" comment here). I'm just amazed at how my son and my hubby are growing together.

Except...When son hits 13, I hear all his hormones will be different, and he'll be going through all these changes. Funny, isn't that what I hear about a man who turns 40? They'll be doing that TOGETHER!!!

Don't tell Hubby that I'm really proud of the way he's grown. And this morning when he asked me if I possibly wanted to trade him in on two younger men? I cringed...

What, and have to train TWO MORE??? I'm thinkin' that's a NO!!

Love you back, Hubby!!!

Appreciate Yourself

It's Saturday night...not many people are out there in the blogging world.
Fellow NaBloPoMo people, how are you holding up?
Need something to post about?
Take this quiz AND feel better about yourself in the process.

Remember..."Be impeccable with your word" means you have to be nice, in your words, about you too. So...let's say something nice about ourselves. What do people envy about you??

People Envy Your Energy

You've got the drive and determination to keep your life in order, and you are on track to be a huge success. People tend to envy all you've got in life, but they don't understand the work that goes behind it!

What Do People Envy About You?

Meme Virgin No More

Can you hear that??

No?

Come a little closer...can you hear it now??

Well, maybe it's my lack of technical skills and not being able to insert fanfare here. I'll have to translate it for you...Dat da daaaaaa!!!!

Ladies and Gentlemen...Grandy is pleased to announce...She has received her FIRST MEME!!! Yep, for those of you who are Meme hoes (ahem) ...regulars, you take for granted that all these people want to know so much about you. We do, don't get me wrong. We want to know all about you...why else would we be reading your blog? So...keep memeing (is that a word?) but DON'T take it for granted!


Some of us quiet types however (hey stop laughing) might start to feel a bit self-conscious when she leaves a gazillion comments for people and reads all these great memes and never gets "Tagged".


Well, this meme virgin is about to say good-bye to all chastity and take the plunge (who was I kidding anyway? I was about to Meme myself...but could never truly find out what a meme was).


Without further adieu....I have been tagged by dee/otc, with her post Tag…I’m it. I'm not exactly certain how this works, other than I tell you 5 things about myself. Then, if I've been paying attention, I am to tag 5 other bloggers. Ummm...what happens if there aren't 5 different bloggers who know me?? Ummm...WAIT...I have new friends on NaBloPoMo!! Rock On!! I'm ready!!!

5 Things about Grandy (that you may not know)

1. Grandy has survived two serious car accidents, both involving a tree, and both while being a passenger. PLUS one where the vehicle hit a tree without a driver, while Grandy ran along side of it trying to catch up to it. (Technically that makes trees 3, cars 0...remind me to blog about the driverless auto one another day).

2. Grandy rides a mean ATV, provided she doesn't have to go down too many steep hills. Maybe it's my issue with trees? See above.

3. Grandy is a TiVo junkie...I will pause a program and do something else JUST so I don't have to watch the stinkin' commercials.

4. Grandy is currently two months behind in a "self-study" Claims Law course. Can anyone blame me?? I'm having way too much fun blogging than to be reading about Pleadings & Practice.

5. Grandy is VERY EXCITED about going to Mexico with her family for Christmas. Pero, necessito practicar mi espanol.

There...that was fun!! Was it good for you?? Not so much? Oh well, smoke 'em if you gottem.

Now for my TAGS:
Mrs. G
URBAN PEDESTRIAN
Suzanne
Michele
Sara Louise

There...did I do that right???

Thanks ALL!!

My Favorite Things

Has anyone met Mrs. G.? She has this great blog, Derfwad Manor. If you haven't seen it...please do. Although, it does appear Mrs. G's popularity has significantly grown since NaBloPoMo began. The number of comments being left on her site keeps multiplying.

I'm not worthy, Mrs. G!!!

By way of the post Raindrops on Roses and Whiskers on Kittens, this awesome blogger, who always refers to herself in the 3rd person, has asked us to share "A Few of Our Favorite Things" like the song says.

I think I'm up for the challenge. Here goes...

1. Nope, riding a tractor is NOT one of my favorite things, but the family surrounding the tractor is truly my favorite. We have fun doing all sorts of things together. Don't we look like the rough and ready group? This could be the first (and maybe only) pic I've put of me on this website. But from a distance, anyone looks good. See? I actually look like I know how to ride that thing! And for those of you familiar with my hubby's buying habits from You bought WHAT??, I just want you to know, we DON'T own this. We were at a pumpkin patch. My whole family is key though...Mom, sisters, even brother!!

2. Not much needed in this category. I am blessed with so many good ones!! Thank you!!! Without good friends, I can only imagine the fashion disasters I could commit on my own.

3. Sushi is quite possibly my favorite food. It's one of the few foods that gets me excited to go eat. I don't do it often enough because it's too expensive, but it is a treat. Like I said, all my siblings love it, and a few friends of mine. I like it all, the rolls, the sashimi, the soups. Ok wait, I don't like the tempura because they try to mask vegetables that prompt my gagging reflex in there and I never know until it's too late. Ewww...

4. Seriously people? I did not know the great William Shakespeare even HAD an action figure. That is CLASSIC!! But really, I digress. I love the theatre, and what symbolizes the theatre more than William Shakespeare? Plays and musicals ROCK!! I got my degree in theatre and used to work in the industry. I did everything from Stage Management, Lights, Props, and Perform. I loved every aspect of it and it never seemed like work to me. I actually got PAID to do something I loved!! What a rush!!!

5. Music!! Music has the ability to make me feel. I can get through anything if I have music playing. Don't believe me? I wear my MP3 player at work just to tune out the noise and focus on what I'm doing. It really helps lighten my mood, or feeds my mood, depending on whatever I want. My collection is really quite ecclectic.

And....last, but definitely NOT least?

6. Writing! I have always loved to write, but had lost that part of myself when I began putting my needs last. Only with my recent MIS, did I re-discover the joy and fun of writing. It's a wonderful outlet.

Thank you for allowing me to share it with you.

What Should YOUR Superpower Be?

I just love taking these little quizzes. They're fun to see where other people fall in. AND...after a 15 hour day...It helps when your thoughts are all mushed together.

Please share what your Superpowers should be?? Please?? It's fun, really, you know you wanna try it!! Everybody's doing it!! Go head...give it a shot!! :)

Your Superpower Should Be Manipulating Electricity

You're highly reactive, energetic, and super charged. If the occasion calls for it, you can go from 0 to 60 in a split second. But you don't harness your energy unless you truly need to. And because of this, people are often surprised by what you are capable of. Why you would be a good superhero: You have the stamina to fight enemies for days Your biggest problem as a superhero: As with your normal life, people would continue to underestimate you

What Should Your Superpower Be?

Are You Service Oriented?

Are You??

Does the thought of dealing with people make you want to run and hide? Vomit maybe??

When your phone rings, are you sending it straight to your voicemail in fear that it will just be another headache?

Instead of asking "How are you today?" are you asking "What do you want?"

Do you dream of going absolutely no where in a company of thousands, where they promote only by seniority and not talent??

Well...have I got the position for you!!

As a job placement company we have a large client seeking un-motivated, un-professional, bumps on logs, to get them through the upcoming holiday season. People skills entirely optional because frankly this company is so large, and has completely saturated their market by monopolizing everything, that it won't matter. Customers (i.e. Suckers) will STILL COME BACK!!

Earn solid money while having a crappy attitude! Didn't think it was possible? Neither did we!!

Please fax your email to 555-SUCK. Where other rude customer service reps are standing by waiting to do nothing.

***Special Note: This is not the normal ranting of Grandy, and she is actually not in a bad mood today. She has been working hard from home today and has had a few run-ins with customer service professionals that perhaps needed some additional training. Rather than vent about these people, she envisioned how fun it would be to post a job opening to all these people at the same time. She certainly had fun writing it! If you should happen to try to fax to this number, you will be the proud recipient of the "Forgotten Clue" award. Thank you!!

Good Food DOES Take Time

So you've heard the one about NOT judging a book by it's cover? If not, you're going to want to climb out of that rock and read this.

Well...Have I got the proverbial book for you!!

Friday night, after my extensive ranting, I had to meet 2 of my sisters for dinner (I'll admit I was a bit concerned for their safety and well being after my rantings). One was up from San Diego for a convention/seminar, in a nearby town about 40 miles away. This town is kind of remote (not as remote as my town...but close). I had only ever been in this town for sporting events, or driving through, so I did a little research and found information on a Sushi place. All my siblings love Sushi, so I thought that was a great bet. On the rare occasions we can get together, we usually try to do Sushi. And since she was traveling to a place closest to me, I felt responsible for showing the girls a good time.

We arrive at the hotel, I quickly realize that our party of 3 is now a party of 10. (Don't panic Mary, you can do this...you are NOT going to make yourself responsible for EVERYONE'S good time...Must control anxiety!!) They all seemed very nice, and had obviously started at the bar before we got there (darn, could have used one myself). But, we must remember the horrible mood I was in when I left the house...remember Bikers Who Bite? Need I say more??

Well, off we marched, to find the Main Street. We get there, find the Sushi place, and discover they are too small, and too crowded to take our party of 10. So, we marched across the street to the Chinese food place. From there, dinner became one of the COOLEST, and yet BIZARRE episodes you could have written for a Saturday Night Live skit (back when the skits didn't suck).

We walked down a long hallway and before we knew it, we were seated in a room that resembled more of a bus depot than a restaurant. A few in the group (including my sister) stood in front of the hostess, at the door, almost afraid to go in, verbally contemplating their mood for Italian instead. Yikes!! I sat down and said...this will do fine. We had a party of 10 and they could seat us. How bad can it be?

After we all sat and got situated, we realized that this would be a good place for us because no one else was in the restaurant and we were 10 rather loud people, all talking at the same time. Soon, however, it became crystal clear that not only was the restaurant void of customers, at 7:30 on a Friday night, it was also noticeably void of staff. HUH!! Want proof??

Yep! That picture was taken by me, from one end of the restaurant/depot, to the other. No one there!!

So, then the hostess came in. I believe it was then that we noticed that the hostess was also the waitress and I believe the cook. As she delivered the water, I was forced to think of the great Tim Conway, in a sick drag. When we ordered the meals, and as she struggled with the idea that we would want both fried rice and steamed rice, I started to look for the candid camera.

Then fate landed in our laps like an anvil on Wile E. Coyote (please tell me I don't have to explain that to you). It was a sign. Not just any ol' sign...but perhaps the most profound sign we had witnessed. It explained so much, and yet said so little.

Can you read it? It says GOOD FOOD TAKES TIME. Translated, it means "Be prepared to WAIT". (Notice the glare off the glass? I believe this is the kitchen on the other side of the hallway...but can't be sure)

Somehow, once we discovered the sign, it all became clear to us (ok, the hostess/waitress/cook never became clear but...) we suddenly became much more patient. This food was going to be good? We weren't holding out a whole lot of hope.

Ah...it didn't seem to matter anymore. The people in this group were cracking me up, my mood had improved, and I was with my sisters. Who cared that it was 1 hour 15 minutes before the food came?

Well, our girl delivered! The food ended up being GREAT!! I'm not sure how she did it but each plate was hot and tasty. We weren't sure she was going to even get the order right, but it seems those producers for Candid Camera had a heart after all.

I'm all about the whole dining experience when I go out. I'm pretty much about the experience all the way around. I can't tell you how grateful I was for our party of 10, as each one of them was great!! I don't know how many of them knew eachother before, but WOW that was fun!

Thanks to my Candid Camera Friends!!!

Flu Shots

So, the doctor had this brilliant idea to give me a flu shot a week & a half ago, just before going back to work. Now, I don't blame my doctor for the flu now, but it is suspicious.

A few weeks back, I read a blog from Amy Derby about all the conditions in which you have deadlines as a freelance writer. Let me just say...it's days like these that I appreciate NOT being self employed as a freelance writer.

Thank you, to all you freelancers out there!! I appreciate all you do, and under all the conditions.

I'm going back to bed now.

'nite!

Colorific??

Things are crazy today, and after yesterday's rantings, I thought I would try and post something serene. So, tell me what your favorite color says about you!!

What Your Favorite Color Purple Says About You:

Intuitive --- Seeking --- Creative Kind --- Self-Sacrificing --- Growth Oriented Strong --- Very Wise --- Rare

What Does Your Favorite Color Say About You?

Bikers Who Bite

I definitely try not to make my blog about pet peeves, usually!! Only on rare occasion have I regurgitated on some poor, yet unassuming person who doesn't even realize they lost their clue.

Today's rant?? Bicyclists who own the road!!!

Alright, before people jump down my throat please understand, I'm all for bicyclists!! I have good friends who have participated in IronMan competitions, and ride EVERYWHERE! I'm very impressed with them, and their riding abilities.

But, can someone PLEASE explain to me why some of them ride outside the bike lane, in the middle of a lane where the posted speed limit is 45? I'm not sure, but because I've handled so many auto injury claims (so many involve bicyclists) I just can't think that's the safest thing to do. ESPECIALLY since there is indeed a bike lane??

I was driving (slowly I might ad) by a bicyclist who was just to the outside left of the bike lane earlier today. As I got near him he decided to suddenly veer left significantly and get in front of my car. UGH!! I almost hit him, and that would have really ticked me off!!

I didn't honk my horn, because I wasn't sure what the nut job's intention was and didn't want him to fall in front of me (because then I would be forced to use him as traction...should have). So, I slowed significantly to see what his next move was going to be. I ended up following him for a few blocks and then he just randomly decided to...you guessed it...get his butt back into the bike lane. Seriously??? HUH!!!! (yep, used it again)

And you know what else? I have, on occasion, taken my son to Tahoe to ride on the bike trails. It's beautiful, and it's a great place for a family ride. Well, some of those bicyclists are SO RUDE!! They get irritated if they come up on a 5 year old on training wheels, and rudely cut them off. Some of them even grunt at the parents as they go by. It

Excuse me?? Have I made a wrong turn and landed in France?? NO?? Oh, my bad!! SHARE THE DARN ROAD!!! That phrase works both ways. I'm talking to you, RUDE BIKERS!!

There is such a stigma associated with people who ride Harley Davidson's...I tell ya, it's the Schwinn's you gotta look out for!! Some of those Bikers BITE!!!!

Ok...I'm better now.

Office Appreciation

So, I thought I was ready to go back to work. I've made it through the week (working from home tomorrow) and have lived to tell about it. As I approach the end of the week, I have but one question...


WHAT THE HECK WAS I THINKING??

You see, it wasn't dealing with "The Look" that I referenced in my One Step At A Time post from the other day. That was fine, although I started giving it back to see if it made anyone feel uncomfortable. It didn't, but it made me giggle.


It wasn't relating to the clients. A few of them hadn't even realized I had just been out of the office for about 10 weeks (great for the self-esteem but not so great when they demanded expediency).

What was it that tore me up this week, you ask?? How about I show you??

This is not a picture of what my desk NORMALLY looks like (usually there are far more files on top). This is a picture of the chaos we all went through this week.

You guessed it, I returned to work during MOVING WEEK!! Our owner purchased a new building (next to a Hooters restaurant...which I can't wait to blog about) and we move there tomorrow.

I can't believe how much CRAP I had!!! Where in the world did the gazillion paper clips come from?? Do I really need 30 push pins? I don't even remember getting them. Oh, and let's discuss the condiments...no? alrighty, maybe not. (Definitely a sign I eat at my desk WAY too much).

Nothing like coming back to the office, already feeling like I've walked in on a movie 20 minutes in and I just can't catch up, and having to pack up (throw out) all your crap. Ohhhhh...and did I throw out CRAP!!

I have to TRULY give credit to the office staff that organized this move. What an undertaking!! I wish I could have been more helpful, but I was quite busy packing my stuff (apparantly co-workers had been getting ready for this) and dealing with customers...HUH!!!

Our new office is going to be beautiful, and many people are very excited. I think it looks really nice, and can appreciate all the work put in on it...but it's still work people!!! Seriously?? Can you really not wait to see what color the walls are?? (Maybe it's because of this sarcasm that I've been placed in the far corner? Nah...I asked for it!!)

Well, it's the week of surviving at least. I've survived my first week at the office AND my first week of NaBloPoMo. Weekend drinking...HERE I COME!! For my next trick?? Walking AND chewing gum!!!