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!!!

HUH!!!

Have YOU ever been caught in an awkward moment?

Has your boss just said something that made absolutely no sense?

Ever had a friend decide they just HAD to have those 40 lb. cement turtles being sold by a vendor in Mexico, without a thought as to having to carry them home??

Tired of hearing demanding, unreasonable requests from clients who just don't seem to have brought their clue with them today?

How about a spouse who has a bad habit of bringing home the latest "deals"? You name it!!

Well, I have THE magic word to get you out of any of these situations!! No, I'm not talking about WTF (which unless you're sending a text message, still counts as 3 words). Besides, the powerful word I am about to demonstrate for you can get you out of these situations PAINLESSLY and without repercussions.

Don't believe me? Well, for 3 easy payments of $19.95, you too can have the rights to use the word, "HUH!!" Now, please don't confuse this mighty word with the connotation often expressed with in the form a question (damn you Alex Trebek).

Huh? That's the wrong inflection and can only lead to trouble, or looking like an ignorant putz.

HUH!! It's the magic word with the hidden mojo. Think about using it as, "HUH! I hadn't thought of that before", or "HUH! What an interesting choice". The art of this word is making sure you say the word WITHOUT sounding like "Insert WTF here!!"

For example:
Client - Grandy, we want you to jump through this flaming hoop...backwards...on your head...while shoving knives into your eyes.
Grandy - HUH!!
***What they hear is, "HUH! That sounds like an interesting challenge!"
***What you mean is, "HUH! You truly think I get paid enough to wipe your butt??"

Girlfriends - WE BOUGHT TURTLES!!!
Grandy - HUH!!
***What they hear is, "HUH! Why didn't I think of that?"
***What you mean is, "HUH! What the hell for??" or "On Purpose??"

Hubby - I have no clean pants to hear.
Grandy - HUH!!
***What he hears is, "HUH! That's unfortunate, let me get that taken care of."
***What you mean is, "HUH! Well, that wouldn't be the case if you'd either wash some yourself, or tell me about it before you run out (while you're rubbing my feet)." Wait, that one really becomes too much of a fantasy.

I think you get my point. You should try it!! It's amazing how many people I've turned on to that one little word, because it works!!!

You'll see...it will allow you to escape any awkward situation with your job, marriage, and pride in tact. Try it for 30 days...or your money back!!

GUARANTEED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Snoozing Spots

I was so tired last night, I could only break down my schedule (and barely did that coherently) for my plentiful reading fans. Although, if I took off my shoes to count the number of readers (or at least those that choose to comment) I'd still have 10 toes left. Wait, I do have some new friends from my NaBloPoMo postings, and today is only the 6th!! Think of how many more I could get by the end of the month...watch out toes.

So for the few, yet faithful readers, I have a question for you.

Where is the oddest place you've fallen asleep??

I was asked by the beautiful young neurologist yesterday (I don't think she could have been any cuter or perkier...ICK!!) whether or not I have fallen asleep in any unusual places. "Hmmmm... define 'UNUSUAL'," I told her. There's the time I fell asleep while four wheelin' through the snow, then about six months ago I fell asleep while watching Blue Man Group in Las Vegas. How does one fall asleep in such a loud show?? I have no idea, but I could NOT stay awake.

After the appointment I was telling Hubby about the question and I can't believe he had to remind me of the most infamous time and place. We had gone away for the weekend on the motorcycle. On our way home I fell asleep on the back of the motorcycle. I'm not sure what happened, but Hubby had to grab my leg to keep me from going over and taking him down with me. Funny how that one escaped my memory (probably blocked out the image of what might have happened).

So...Please...Tell me some of you out there have a strange place you've fallen asleep? I can't be the only one! Well, I guess I can, but I'm reaching here.

Comment Away...Please...ANYBODY??

I Survived Back To Work Day!!

Well...day one back at work is behind me (and I was worried). I guess I jumped in with both feet and didn't land on my rear. For the following reasons I will be keeping tonight's post as short and sweet as possible:
6:00 am - Up & attem (I get to sleep late because of Dr. appt)
7:30 am - Drop son off at school
8:00 am - Shoot...forgot I had 1pm massage scheduled...luckily, opening at 5pm.
8:15 am - Get lab work done (gotta love that fasting)...no one is in line? My luck ROCKS today.
8:30 am - Get some food in me (still loving the fasting)
9:30 am - Neurology appointment (How many ways do I not sleep?)
11:00 am - Drive the 35 miles from MD to Office..."Breathing" all the way.
11:45 am - Get to the office - arrived to some nice flowers, a welcome back sign, and some lovely smiling faces (still thinking positive).
11:50 am - Get call from client...who didn't know I was out? She somehow overlooked my out of office greeting when she sent me an email 6 weeks ago?? How is it the very last problem she had was the day before my temporary exit? Was she waiting for me???? (So much for easing into it)
11:55 am - Reset all passwords, and try to remember how to maneuver the system, while taking into consideration what changes have been made.

By 12noon it all started to come back to me, and BLURRRRRR. I definitely hit the ground running, but I escaped by 4:15 (yes, I know you're proud), made it to a massage (thank goodness for luck), drove to son's basketball tryouts (Oh my, 25 boys trying out for 14 positions), picked up dinner, made it home by 8:30pm. Got son cleaned up, checked homework, and am now posting my blog to hurry in bed by 10, so I can get up at 4:30 tomorrow. BREATHE DAMMIT!!!!

All in all...It was a GREAT DAY!!!

Tomorrow...no more honeymoon. :)

One Step At A Time

Breathe...1.2.3.

Must...

NOT...

PANIC!!!!

(What you are witnessing is an inner conversation I am currently having as I am preparing to go back to work tomorrow.)

For those of you who have read my blog before, you may know I have been on a MIS (Medically Induced Sabbatical) for a couple months. This work-a-holic's health had pushed her into the doctors saying enough!! Well, originally it was to be until 1/1/08. Now I get to go back tomorrow.

I have my reasons for convincing the doctor to allow me to go back (too many to fit on this blog) but to sum it up, it's time I try putting some of these stress management matters to good use. I've learned there have been some significant changes with respects to my job, but I'm trying not to panic (way easier said than done).

Anxiety is a funny thing. I love the rush I get when I pace and can't control racing thoughts that only sabotage my "relaxation". Oh...and how can I forget the warmth I feel in my cheeks as they begin to flush. At least, as I look on the bright side, I burn calories while I randomly pace from one room to the other, trying to be productive, but not really accomplishing anything. **Fold t-shirt here...relocate mail there...put spoon in dishwasher...REPEAT**

I almost didn't post anything about this, because I'm not feeling very funny at the moment. Then I realized...um...Mary?? I hate to break it to you, but...You're not always funny!!! No big surprise to some of you, I'm sure. However, as I try to be "Impeccable with my word" I am not actually meaning that I'm not a funny person...I'm just sometimes not in the mood to be funny.

I should look on the bright side, I can break things down into positives about going back to work earlier than expected:

Positives:

1. I will get to go back to the office and see my many friends there. - Even though many of those people will be giving me "The Look".
2. My son will no longer feel like I'm "suffocating" him at home - HA!! Could he be any farther off?
3. I will no longer be reliant on the State of California for my pay check. - And to them, can I say...Seriously people?? Can I really change my voicemail to say, "We're sorry but we have the maximum number of callers on hold...call back later" ????? Not to mention that only in California do you have the option to press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, and so on. THEN when you press 1 they tell you they have an 800# for Spanish speakers! I speak some Spanish (that's right, I rock) but did I not just press 1???
4. I am returning at a good time because I'm excited that we're moving in to a new office building. - Some of the current neighbors were beginning to bug the crap out of me (you know who you are Matthew).
5. All this week I get to wear JEANS!!! - Not bad since I haven't bothered to try on any of my business clothes to see if they still fit...have been working out...but not really eating less. Maybe there's a trade off and I'm the same.

Now, I referenced "The Look". I'm afraid it may only be something one can read about but not truly appreciate. Imagine a co-worker coming up to you, looking you up and down, head tilted, eyes squinted, and half smile..."How ARE you??" The eyes are squinted because they are flinching for what you are about to tell them, they are checking you out to see if they can notice any distinguishing changes. These people really do care about asking the question, but I'm not so sure many of them really want the answer.

Well, we'll find out tomorrow!! At least, if nothing else, it will give me PLENTY of topics for the blog!! More to follow...

If I were a Carnival Ride...

These random tests are kinda fun!!

What Kind of Carnival Ride am I??????????

You Are a Carousel

You are young at heart and a truly playful person. No one would ever accuse you of taking life too seriously.You are definitely in things for the fun. You find joy easily, and you are often building up anticipation for your next adventure.In relationships, you tend to want to be babied and taken care of.And while you may be a bit high maintenance, you are incredibly loyal. Your life is simple and satisfying. Each day you treat yourself to something you enjoy.You have a lot of emotional attachments, and experiences are extra vivid to you.You tend to be nostalgic and sentimental. The past is important to you.Comfortable around all living things, you have a special connection to animals and children. At your best, you are whimsical, free spirited, and creative.Even if your schemes seem a bit strange, they usually work out wonderfully.At your worst, you are spoiled, demanding, and impossible to satisfy.You've been known to act like a brat if you aren't getting your way!

What Carnival Ride Are You?

Where has my lid gone??

Oh plastic lid, where could you be?

Why you have left me, I cannot see.

The others, they tell me they know my plight;

I need you to cover me and hold me tight;

I need you with me, morning, noon and night.

Please return to me, my lovely lid;

Please protect my insides, as no other lid did.

So here I sit, waiting for your return;

My lovely lid, who protects me from freezer burn.

What's My Line??

Rrrrollll In Zee Hay!!


Put Ze Candle Beck!!!


Abby somethin'



But I was going to make some Espresso!!!






I have a real quirky habit (alright, more than one) where I tend to recite lines from a movie, or break out in song, whenever something sounds familiar. I'm the only one I know that will be sitting in a bar with some friends, hear the waitress say "We've only just begun cooking your food" and I break out into...Yep...are you hearin' the music now?? Here's a hint...

It's not a habit I can control, and it usually cracks me up quite regularly. It's even better when the person delivering the line gives me the WTF look. It really doesn't take much to amuse me, really...It's really fun to live in my head sometimes. Oops, back to subject.

Recently, a friend of mine asked where this came from (i.e. why must you embarrass me so?) and I guess I have my father to thank. Ever since I can remember, Dad was always reciting lines from his favorite movie of all time, "Young Frankenstein" (Mel Brooks is a friggin genius). If he was telling us to put something away it was "Put zeh candle beck". While he nursed me back from my injuries from my car accident (long story/different blog) he had a knack for hurting me on accident, to which he would always follow up with, "But I was going to make some espresso!" And...please don't even get me started on the Frau Blücher sound effects he would make.

If anyone reads my bio they will find that I am a self appointed SUCK at "Name That Tune". I could even say that I suck worse at "Name That Band". I could sing you an entire song, word for word, and not be able to tell you who sings it or what it's called. It's truly a skill (I know you're jealous).

The ability to quote applicable movie lines and lyrics to songs in a single beat, not my strongest of my Wonder Twin Powers, but a skill nonetheless (The power of knowing the number one song at the time of any one's date of birth was already taken by a guy from college). It's also a genetic skill...my brother is WAY faster and funnier than I am. I consider it a true honor if we end up with the same line at the same time.

Dad would have been 74 last Friday. And as a man who had an uncanny resemblance to Frank Barone (yet another Peter Boyle Character), I can think of no better way to honor his memory than to say...

Poo -- tmmm anngh ma Ritz!