Color Of My Brain

Thanks Amy!

What Color is Your Brain?

GOLD:

At work or in school: I like set routines and organized ways of doing thingsl rules and directions are a great help to me. I prefer to stay on one topic at a time. I need to know what is expected of me, and I always want to know if I am on the right track. I like subjects that are useful and traditional, such as business, accounting, history and government.
With friends: I prefer people who are careful with their money and who make plans ahead of time. I like my friends to be loyal, dependable and on time. I am serious about love and show it in many practical ways.
With family: I like stability and security and enjoy traditions and frequent celebrations. I like to spend holidays with family members, and I plan ahead for such gatherings.
Take this quiz!

Always Changing Probably

First off...
Happy (belated) 9th Anniversary to Cate & Kaisara! We're honored to have you guys as friends and Elijah's Godparents. We can hardly wait 56 days to see you.

Elijah and I went to Curious George today. He lasted 30 minutes before he was done sitting. So we spent the rest of the time walking the hallways of the theatre. Ran into Myrna and family. It must have been a popular choice for activities today. We'll have to rent the movie, as I found it entertaining and funny. And George was very much like Elijah, right down to the emptying of toilet paper rolls. :)

It's so stinkin' hot here! We're in upper 90s all week and all next week. Gotta find some money to get to a pool!

I read online that Keith got booted from Canadian Idol. That's a huge mistake, he's super talented! I found a video of one of his performances on YouTube. Sure wish Easily Amused was coming through Colorado sometime soon. A few months ago their van got robbed in PA, and they lost everything. So it'll probably be a while before they do a big tour again.

I've been watching Last Comic Standing again. They have a few good comics, particularly Josh Blue (go Denver!) and Chris Porter. Was content enough with the eliminations thus far, except for Kristin, who just couldn't put together a strong enough act (but she's good), and Gabriel, who blew it by breaking the rules. He was my favorite (after Josh), I love to watch his special on Comedy Central whenever it airs.

So now you're caught up (if you are still reading). I'll close with a quote from Curious George (before we had to leave). I laughed at loud at this, I thought it was funny.

Cab Driver: Where you headed, Yellow?
Ted: Bloomsberry Museum, and I'll give you an extra ten if you don't call me "yellow", Okay?
Cab Driver: Sure thing, Sunshine.

Dullsville

What's more boring to watch? World Cup or Tour De France? Yuck, I just couldn't get into either. But I was happy for Anna & Francesco that Italy won the WC. I don't get that they would give the MVP to the headbutt guy. What's up with that?

I had plans to go swimming on Monday with my friend, but she went into false labor. I told her it was the queso skillet we had Sunday night. :)

Thursday I'm taking Elijah to his first movie. I'm not sure how it will go, but it's free, so I figure if he hates being there, we can leave.

VH1 is airing a show called the World Series Of Pop Culture. I'm totally rocking on it, but Geoff won't let me try out for the show, he said I'm not a big enough loser.

USA has found a great match for Monk on Friday nights, Psych. It's hilarious, I love it. Tune in if you get the chance.

Okay, nothing else is going on. I'll close with a quote from Return To Me.

Megan Dayton: "What do you expect most from a relationship? A: Companionship. B: Sex. C: Respect." I'd have to go with B: Sex. But let's mark "C" so we get a higher score...

Quote For The Day

"If you ask me anything I don't know, I'm not going to answer."
-Yogi Berra

Here Comes The Sun

After being stuck in rain clouds all week, the sun is due to return. We are supposed to get back to 90 degree days by tomorrow. Yay! I enjoy a rainy day, but after a week of nothing but rain, it makes it hard to get motivated to do stuff. Also puts a damper on outdoor activities you have planned.

This weekend we didn't venture out of the house much. We took a trip to the Southlands farmer's market, which was awesome. Someone was selling homemade ice cream. Thankfully I didn't have cash on me, otherwise we would have been eating ice cream at 9am. :)

We watched Batman Begins (finally) on Friday night. Since Cate liked it, I figured it had to be good (Cate has good taste in movies). Geoff really liked it, but I don't think I got into it until Lucius Fox was introduced (who doesn't love Morgan Freeman). Then I felt like I was laughing the rest of the movie. I told Geoff maybe it's because I'm a girl, I didn't relate to the struggle of Bruce trying to find himself. Don't all guys go through that? Anyways, it was an enjoyable movie, maybe even worth buying.

Despite the rain, I did get a big ray of sunshine from Athena. She & Stephanie are coming to visit this fall! With Lisa coming next Spring, I don't think life could get much better.

I'll close with a quote from Batman Begins.

Bruce Wayne: Well, you know how it is, Mr Fox. You're out at night, looking for kicks, someone's passing around a weaponized hallucinogen.

Tidbits (Not To Be Confused With Timbits)

- Elijah's godparents (one set anyway) Cate & Kaisara are coming for certain! Flights were booked last night. I'm so excited!!!!

- Because Canada can't seem to get control over mad cows, Lisa was told she couldn't send me Aero bars?! WTH? She did it anyway, so we'll see if they arrive.

- I've got cool stuff coming up in August, September & October. That makes me smile.

- I totally felt convicted listening to Live What I Believe (Russ Lee), so I'm working on the issues that God has laid upon my heart. Essentially, if I feel like I can't love someone, I should at least be praying daily for God to show His love to them, and for Him to send other Christians into their life.

- The Kroliks (specifically Abbie) gave Elijah a toy when we were there, and he is now mimicking the sounds it makes. It's funny.

- When we bought the new umbrella stroller, I really wanted to get the one with an iPod holder on it, that will play the music in a speaker on the canopy. But I'm cheap, so we didn't get that one. :)

- How does one person meet so many famous Brits in one night?! Kelly, you know I'm gonna have to tell everyone that Brave Sir Robin hit on you. Oh and next time please tell Sir Paul I say hi. Lucky lucky girl!

I Thought It Was Funny

Music Soothes The Savage Beast

I was telling Lisa (a few weeks ago) that I was listening to a song, and it just put things in perspective for me. Here's a snippet of the lyrics...

Holding on to problems that were never really mine
searching for solutions that I know I could not find
calling on You help me realize and now I see
there really is no mystery oh Lord You hold the key

Let go of my troubles, let God have all those
don't have to worry no more
Got to be free now, You can help me now
let go let God

I had such a peace about everything after I listened to that song, I ended up playing it like 3x. It's Let Go Let God, off the Prince Of Egypt Inspirational album.

I find music (and prayer) can usually turn my attitude around. I just need to take the time to do that, instead of dwelling on the negative.

What We've Been Up To

We watched another Hitchcock movie, Notorious, with Cary Grant & Ingrid Bergman. I enjoyed it, more than the last movie we saw. One thing I've noticed about his female lead characters, they all seem to be high maintenance.

How did we spend the Fourth? We went down to Cherry Creek, which wasn't busy at all, had some Peet's and picked up an umbrella stroller for Elijah. Something that is smaller and easier for small trips (like Boulder, or Vegas). It was on sale.

I also talked to Cate briefly, who was killing time during her layover in Denver. Had it been longer than an hour, we might have driven out to the airport to say hi. I secretly hoped that those crazy rains we've been having would have hit while they were there. Then we could have had them over. We'll be seeing Cate & Kaisara in 64 days or so. I can wait.

Last night I talked with Heather on the phone for 93 minutes. We haven't talked on the phone since February I think. So we had a lot of catching up to do. It was really nice talking with her, though Geoff was sad I had ignored him half the evening. Oops. :)

Not much else going on this week. We're trying to tighten the money belt to save up for our trip next month.

Lastly, I wasn't sure how the Oilers would make out with the loss of Pronger. So when I read in the Edmonton Journal they secured Lupul for Pronger, I was stoked! Now that's a good deal. And it's even better when you hear Lupul say he is happy to play in Edmonton (he's from Ft Saskatchewan). He said, "It's going to be refreshing to be in a place where hockey really matters".

I'll close with a quote from Notorious.

Alicia: My car is outside.
Devlin: Naturally.

You Might Think We're Crazy...

But we're going to Vegas in August! It's a cheap flight there, and a cheap stay at the hotel we like (the Orleans). Nana & Grampy are meeting us there, and it'll be Diane's first visit to Sin City. Geoff has Vegas fever bad, he's gonna drive me crazy!

Happy Canada Day!

Elijah celebrating Canada Day this year.



Elijah celebrating Canada Day last year.



He's grown a little hasn't he?

We were able to enjoy the sun and art at the Arts festival. No, we didn't buy any. We're not in a financial place where it's important. I'm thankful that they were handing out sunscreen and even had sunscreen stations, because I'm an idiot and I didn't put any on before leaving the house. Now I have some in a small size to throw in the diaper bag! We got some money out of the bank and decided we'd buy supplies for dinner at Whole Foods and the Farmer's Market. What did we make?



Homemade pizza with basil and fresh asagio cheese. (Lisa, I know how much you like me posting pictures of food on my blog!) Naturally, we cooked it on the charcoal bbq, my new favorite way to have pizza. My friend Amy thanked me for introducing this to her menu, she and he husband love it too.

Well, that's pretty much been our day. Hope my Canadian friends, family, and American friends visiting Canada today had a lovely Dominion Day. I'll close with one of my favorite Jim Carrey quotes.

"Yes, Canada. It was a frozen, hostile wasteland. And there was much work to be done if we were to survive the elements. After boring a hole through the ice to find food, my good friend Nantook and I would build an igloo to protect ourselves from polar bears. . . and flying hockey pucks. Then we would drink a lot of beer. Then when Nantook was ready, he would tell me the story of the Great Moose. . . who would say to the little squirrel, 'Hey, Rocky! Watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat."

What Kind Of Mom?

I took this quiz, and it said...

Your quiz results make you a Zen Mom

How do you do it? Even when explosions are all around, you are able to take a deep cleansing breath and chant your mantra "this too shall pass." You are a calming influence on your kids in a hectic world.

Yep, I think that's me. :)

That Silly Cat!

Hot Hot Hot

It's hot here. To beat the heat I filled up Elijah's old tubby with some water. He sure had fun.

This weekend is the Cherry Creek Arts Festival. We checked it out last year, and it was kind of neat, so we'll try to make it again. We may also aim to go to the Farmer's Market, they have one now at Southlands. Did I mention that they finished the sidewalk, so now I can walk there? I love that!

Nothing else is going on, just same old. I'm a little bummed that I wasn't able to secure a good deal to go to D.C. for the Alberta exhibit (Kelly you have to go without me). But we're looking into taking a trip to Vegas in August (Athena, I know it'll be hot, but it'll be fun). We'll see where things go, nothing is set in stone. But you guys know me, I like to have things planned, and things to look forward to (70 days until Cate & Kaisara come!).

Well I'll close with a quote from Rounders.

Mike McDermott: Why do you think the same five guys make it to the final table of the World Series of Poker EVERY YEAR? What, are they the luckiest guys in Las Vegas?

Music Parade

I need to stay away from the iTunes store for a while. I really can't afford to be buying a song here, and a song there. You can see the last 5 songs I bought by looking at my top 5 on the lower left side.

But I had to check it out because BNL released their latest single (as an EP) Easy. The snippet doesn't give me enough to decide whether I want to buy it though. I do love that it is Ed singing though. Even if it grows on me (which is likely), I'll probably wait for the new album.

I just found out that one of my favorite bands, Easily Amused, has a band member competing on Canadian Idol. Obviously I can't watch the show (nor would I if I could), but I encourage my Canadian friends to root for Keith Macpherson. Because he has a great voice, and he writes wonderful music. Now get out and add Easily Amused to your library!

I'll close with a quote from High Fidelity.

Rob: What came first, the music or the misery? People worry about kids playing with guns, or watching violent videos, that some sort of culture of violence will take them over. Nobody worries about kids listening to thousands, literally thousands of songs about heartbreak, rejection, pain, misery and loss. Did I listen to pop music because I was miserable? Or was I miserable because I listened to pop music?

To Make You Smile

For Athena, who does exist.

Monday Monday

So... what did you do this weekend? Nothing. Just a lot of hanging out around the house, hanging out on the patio. Yesterday was a pretty good church service, and then we hung out in the backyard with some friends.

This morning Geoff had to be at work early, and I had a play date with my friend Kirsten. We had some tea and let all the kids run around her house. I brought donuts (breakfast of champions) so we were all high on sugar.

This week, not much going on. No plans for Saturday (Canada Day), and it feels silly to plan something for the Fourth, given that we aren't "official" Americans.

Wish I could say there was stuff going on. I had a great talk with Dawn yesterday (almost an hour and half), so I felt rejuvenate after that. Wish I could see Ryan in person, but it'll have to wait until there is money. Can't spend what you don't have right? And I just don't have the energy to travel alone with a wiggle worm. Dawn was kind of sad that I wouldn't be coming, but she understood (Dawn's the best).

I guess I'll close with a quote from To Die For.

Suzanne Stone Maretto: It's nice to live in a country where life, liberty... and all the rest of it still stand for something.

Hee Hee

Quote For The Day

"There is no such thing as public opinion. There is only published opinion."
- Winston Churchill

To Make You Laugh

I was gonna post this the day it was published, but I already decided I had to post the Get Fuzzy comic. Thank to Geoff for getting me hooked on this comic.

What Is Going On?

Monday night I had a rough night, I barely slept. So Tuesday I felt like I was moving on autopilot (not good when you're driving). I just didn't feel like myself all day. I slept much better last night though.

(time has passed)

I just edited this post, and took out all the angry/annoyed stuff that I've been bothered by. It's not worth it, I'm dealing with it. I just need God to help me see others through His eyes. Not through my angry/annoyed eyes. I'm just sick of people lying to me and being hypocritical. I won't deny I have my hypocritical moments, and I won't say I'm not a liar at times. It's just the ramifications of honesty are not rewarded. I'm just weary of the drama.

The 30 Second Bunnies are working on their parody of Office Space. I can't wait! They just finished their parody of Superman (the original).

I guess I'll close with a quote from Robot Chicken (season one available on DVD).

Darth Vader: Luke... I am your father!
Luke Skywalker: Noooo! That's not true. That's impossible!
Darth Vader: And Princess Leia is your sister!
Luke Skywalker: That's not true. That's... improbable.
Darth Vader: And the Empire will be defeated by Ewoks!
Luke Skywalker: That's... very unlikely...
Darth Vader: And as a child, I built C-3PO!

(see for yourself)

To Make You Laugh

What Classic Movie Are You?

What Classic Movie Are You?
personality tests by similarminds.com

Weekend

Just a breezy weekend with great weather for us. Saturday we ran errands and did some chores. Geoff weeded our yard, and it looks great now. We had afternoon tea in the backyard and played whist. Saturday night we alternated between the Oiler/Hurricane game and the Esks/Stamps game. With the Esks playing, we mostly stayed on hockey. I'm so stoked that the Oil pushed a game 7. This is the way the cup should be played every year.

Sunday for Father's Day we got up early and headed to The Original Pancake House. We had time before church, so we went for coffee at Caribou, and being the only ones there, we got to sit in the good chairs for the first time. Whenever we go, Elijah always wants to play there, because they have furry animal ottomans that he can crawl on top of. Church was awesome, Growly Guy (bass player, his name is Joe, but Geoff and I affectionately refer to him as Growly Guy.) lead worship, and I got chills from singing Sing To The King. We got home and Geoff opened his cards (that card was hilarious Athena!) and his gifts. We spent the rest of the day out in the backyard. We had dinner out there, yummy fajitas on the weber charcoal grill which made me think of camping with the CA crowd. I'm ready for camping now!

Last night we watched Vertigo, having never seen it. We're just going through all the Hitchcock movies on On Demand. Geoff liked, it, but I was just annoyed. By the end, I was hoping everyone would die. Except Midge, I loved her. Well, can't like 'em all. I'm open to suggestions from any Hitchcock fans as to which to see next. We can choose from:
The Man Who Knew Too Much
Notorious
Frenzy
Rear Window
Saboteur

Well, I guess I'll close with a quote from Usual Suspects.

Keaton: His name is Verbal. Verbal Kint.
McManus: Verbal?
Keaton: Yeah.
Verbal: Roger, really. People say I talk too much.
Hockney: Yeah, I was just gonna tell you to shut up.

When He's 64

Happy Birthday to Sir Paul.

for you Kelly, the biggest Beatlemaniac I know.

Can You Taste It?

Bring home Lord Stanley's Mug Oilers!

How Droll

Yesterday I thought I was getting better, from whatever had befallen me. It seemed to be just a cold, then something with sinuses, but today I'm practically hoarse. But my need for Kleenex has subsided, so while I can't really talk, I can at least go out in public.

There's a reason I read the obituaries, it's to find out who died, and obviously to inform the un-informed. For instance, I found out that Uncle Norman passed away. He was my (paternal) grandma's brother. I only saw him at family reunions, but his family was kind enough to acknowledge Dad's passing. So I sent them a note. I also told all the Torrances, since other than reunions, we don't see the Harkes. No one seemed to have known.

Blackadder: Baldrick, have you no idea what "irony" is?
Baldrick: Yes, it's like "goldy" and "bronzy" only it's made out of iron.

Wednesday night I spent some time with Lisa on the phone, and I said some stuff that looked an awful lot like irony the next day when I was calling her to vent about nearly the same thing. Ah family, ain't it wonderful! :) Lisa, what would we do without each other? Is that island ready yet?

I've pretty much given up the idea of coming to Alberta this summer. Sorry to everyone who had their hopes up (all 3 of you). It's more than I want to take on alone (traveling with Elijah). We'll all have to wait until the 3 of us come up, when the time and money comes for that.

The plans for this weekend are chores, and taking Geoff out for Father's Day breakfast.

I'll close with a quote from Ren & Stimpy.

Stimpy: [praying] And please bless Grandma and Grandpa...
Ren: And please give me a million dollars, and a fridge with a padlock and, oh yeah, huge pectoral muscles.

Hee Hee

Holy Cow!

Thank You Fernando!
image courtesy of NHL.com

A Look At The Vacation

Here is the video I took of Geoff at Mile 6. See how happy he is.

Pics of the vacation are up on my Shutterfly album. I really like the way Cate's pictures display, so I opted to go with Shutterfly (Athena, see now you can enlarge them). Plus they are affiliated with Amazon.com. A link to the album can be found on the left (under links). The album is also listed on Elijah's blog (under links).

Enjoy.

Just Like Home

It's always hard to leave SoCal, it feels like home.

Yes we did Disneyland (thanks Ali & Kevin), we had a dinner date at P.F. Chang's (again, thanks Ali & Kevin), and we saw Laguna Beach. We did a ton of visiting, and it was more wonderful than I can put into words. It's awesome being a Krolik! (thanks Jake & Cindy) As I said before, everyone there made us feel at home, and we miss our friends terribly.

Noteworthy Notes:
- My first Ben & Jerry's (thanks Chris & Ashley)
- Oilers winning Saturday night
- the 4 husbands hanging out ;)
- Elijah at the beach
- Playing a great game of crib (hee hee)

Now I'm looking forward to September when Cate, Kaisara, Jen & Greg come to visit.

No big plans for this week. Sunday, for Father's Day we'll take Geoff back to the Original Pancake House. That's about all that is going on here.

I'll close with a quote from Dumb & Dumber.

Harry: I can't believe we drove around all day, and there's not a single job in this town. There is nothing, nada, zip!
Lloyd: Yeah! Unless you wanna work forty hours a week.

Home

We made it home safely, not a bad flight. I'll try to do a real post tomorrow.

We had a fabulous trip, and I can't wait to go back.

Thanks everyone! We love you & we miss you already.

To Make You Laugh

Thanks to Chris for having a link to this.

Brokeback To The Future

Back To The Future meets Brokeback Mountain.

What Did You Do Today?

Ahhh California

Sigh. I'm having a wonderful time. I think we all are. Elijah loves having so many people to pay attention to him and fawn over him. I'll work on getting some pictures up soon.

The marathon was a really neat experience. It was so much fun to watch (until the end), and to see Geoff and be able to cheer for him was awesome. Jen & Sean were great helping out with Elijah, driving all over San Diego, and Sean sharing with Geoff that he knew all that Geoff went through. Afterwards we aimed to go to In-N-Out, but with half the roads closed for the marathon, it just wasn't gonna happen. We ended up at this diner called Brian's. The food was yummy, and the portions were huge, I could have gone the rest of the day without food.

Sunday night we walked all along the harbor area taking in the sights and just getting fresh air. We had a small dinner out there, I had a salad, Geoff had clam chowder (in a bread bowl naturally). I can't wait to get back to San Diego again, it's such a neat town.

We drove safely (and in good time) up to Irvine. Geoff spent the afternoon at UCI (congrats Ryan!) and Cindy, Elijah & I took Amy out to lunch. Amy suggested Mustard (a deli) and I had a very tasty 3 cheese and pesto panini. I totally want a panini press now! I got all the wedding details then we dropped Amy back off at work and went to pick Abbie & Alec up from school. We had First Class Pizza for dinner, then Elijah went to bed, Cindy stayed here, and we took Abbie, Alyssa & Lexi to the church's softball game. After softball, we met Alec, Ashley, Chris, Ali, & Kevin at Coldstone. It was a pretty good day.

Today should be more low-key. Elijah is napping, then we'll go visit everyone at WCC this afternoon. At some point this week we have to get back to UCI because apparently they wanted to see me & Elijah as well.

Yes, I know about Roli. I wasn't able to see the game, I'll try and catch one this week. I was so upset, and a little mad about the whole thing. Now if the Oil pull this off (Jake says it could be a miracle), I will be impressed. I better get on praying (I've actually been praying for the Oilers the whole playoffs).

I'll close with a quote from Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure.

Mr. Ryan: It seems to me the only thing you've learned is that Caesar is a "salad dressing dude."

He Lived!

Geoff did it, he's fine, doing well. We're heading out to In-N-Out. I'm starving for food! He'll probably blog later.

Quickie

Okay, I have 10 minutes before my ride to the race gets here, so I'll try to get out as much as I can.

I love San Diego. It's beautiful. We got in late Friday night (late being 8pm) got settled in the hotel and asleep by 9:30. Didn't sleep well, none of us. Both last night and the nigh before, Elijah slept so fitfully, he doesn't get into deep sleep until 3am.

We checked out the expo at the convention center yesterday (got Geoff a new running hat), and then met up with Anna, Francesco & Julia at Balboa Park. You need a few days to see all it has to offer, had we more time, I would have wanted to see some of the museums there. As it was, we just had a picnic lunch which was lovely and spent time watching the kids.

Last night Cate, Kaisara, Jen & Greg met up with us in the Gaslamp district and we had dinner. Not the original dinner we planned, but a nice one nonetheless. The best part was we had so much time to talk. I really missed them. We're gonna get together again later this week, so Elijah has a chance to crawl around, instead of us passing him once someone got tired.

It's go time. Geoff is as ready as he can be. My ride (Sean & Jen coming down) will be here soon, and I have to get Elijah's car seat out of our car. I hope to go down to the harbour area this afternoon. Geoff said he'll want to keep moving.

Stay Classy San Diego!

Happy Anniversary!

Happy 3rd Anniversary to Ali & Kevin! Can't wait to see you next week.

Soooo Cheesy!

Celebrity Poker Showdown with the new Phil was just awkward. It was cheesy, and did not flow well. Perhaps he'll get better. It might also help if Dave wasn't as drunk.

I'm only 12 years late... I finally saw Speed. Yeah, I'd never seen it before. The acting was meh, the dialogue was bleh, but it had cool explosions. So overall, I'd say cheesy, but entertaining. :)

Wednesday I was feeling a little stressed about the trip, but today everything fell into place. Now I feel better. All I want now is for us to get a seat for Elijah on the plane, and I'll be happy.

Last night I dreamt I was on the set of House, talking with the cast (specifically RSL). Geoff dreamt he was on Top Chef, and that he was Harold. He wins for weirdest dream.

I can't wait to get to San Diego. Saturday we meet up with Geoff's old UCI buds, and Saturday night, the godparents are coming down to help Geoff "carb up". I found a neat restaurant I hope we can go to. Apparently it's a chain (they have some in CO), and Greg really likes it there.

I'll close with a quote from Speed so you get a taste of the cheesy writing. (No offense Joss)

Howard Payne: There's gonna come a time, boy, when you will wish you never met me.
Jack: Mister, I'm already there!

I'm An Auntie Again!

Ryan Colin John Torrance was born last night at 10:36pm. He weighed in at 7 lbs 7oz. Everyone is doing great. I'm sending the paparazzi to their place in the next few days so I can get my first look at him.

Hee Hee

This made me think of us.

Countdown

Tick Tock.

We're so excited about the trip to CA. Things are falling into place. In case you somehow missed the email, party at Casa Krolik on the 10th! I'm sad about not getting to meet Brody (Amy's fiance), but I'm working on getting them to take a road trip out here. Otherwise, I probably won't meet him until the wedding next year.

We got up early to drive up to Boulder to see our friend Kelly & KC run in the Bolder Boulder. Geoff hopes to run in it next year. It was a beautiful day, but the early start is making me drag. I thought I might fall asleep on the drive back to Denver. Geoff had some work to do this afternoon, but I can promise we'll all probably go to bed early tonight.

I had a hard time finding info on when the Stanley Cup finals might be, and it looks like game one will be on Monday. I hope we can catch the games at Cindy's. Hard to say how many games we'll catch.

I read a mystery book, Indemnity Only (Sara Paretsky), and it was a nice change of pace for me (I don't usually read mysteries). I'm currently tackling The Divine Comedy (Dante Alighieri). Also, when I'm trying to fall asleep, my mind is forming ideas about a short story I want to write. I really should write those thoughts out before they escape me forever.

I've been watching Newsradio season three (really makes you miss Phil Hartman), so I'll close with a quote from that.

Bill: Dave, there comes a time in every friendship when you have to say, "I never liked you, get lost."

Happy Anniversary!

Happy 2nd Anniversary to Chris & Ashley! See you guys soon.

Go Oilers Go!

courtesy of NHL.com

Way to go Oilers! Let's bring Lord Stanley's Cup back to Edmonton.

YAY!

The Godparents are coming! Okay, so no dates are locked in, but we have a month, and Cate is doing research. And that's good enough for me to start doing the dance of joy. Oh the fun we'll have! I don't want to go crazy and plan everything for them, but I better pick up a few copies of the Denver magazine (Athena & Heather, you know the one) to bring to CA so they can pick out stuff they'll want to do with their godchild.

Hell Yeah!

House was FANTASTIC! Easily one of the best episodes. Don't want to say too much in case you missed it. But next season will rock. (side note: I was wrong in a previous post when I said House was gonna shoot someone. I don't know how I came to that conclusion. I apologize)


Top Chef finale was the best! I was laughing even after the show, just thinking about Dave & Stephen. To recap (like you care), Harold & Tiffani had to to each cook a 5 course meal. They brought back Dave, Lee Anne, Stephen & Miguel to help out the chefs. But first, they made they choose which chef they wanted to work for. They all wanted to work with Harold, but Stephen chose Tiffani to "keep it interesting". So from the three chefs, Harold chose Lee Anne, then made Dave & Miguel draw knives to see who would be on his team. Poor Dave, he drew Tiffani. But he put on a brave face, and Tiffani said she was happy to have both Stephen & Dave. That night, Dave & Stephen hit Sin City and got blitzed. As Dave told it, they went out, they drank a lot, let's leave it at that. (those were pretty much his words) Day of competition, Dave & Stephen are still drunk, and they are opening up wine to help them cook! It was hilarious! Tiffani was pissed. In the end, the four chefs all said they wanted Harold to win, and the judges obviously agreed. He hopes to open his restaurant in NYC by fall 2006. Congrats to Harold!

The weather here is hot. Yesterday I spent the afternoon with Amy & Caley at Cherry Creek. Elijah was happy to crawl around the food, and I think Amy enjoyed her first trip to Peet's. I had hoped to get some stuff at Whole Foods, but nothing totally swayed me. I may try to go back this weekend, as they had some pies there, and we're supposed to have couples group this weekend.

I'm gonna close with a quote from How to Lose A Guy In 10 Days. (I didn't think I'd like the movie, but it was pretty funny)

Andie: Does Princess Sophia want to come out and play?
Ben: Who's Princess Sophia?
[Andie points at his crotch]
Andie: Little, big, little, big... I don't know... we will find out!
Ben: You can't name my member... Princess Sophia.
Andie: Yes, I can!
Ben: If you are gonna name my... member, you have to name it something hyper masculine. Something like Spike, or Butch, or Krull the Warrior King!

Can You Believe It?

Just the thought of the Oilers advancing to the Stanley Cup playoffs makes me feel giddy inside. I realize they are two wins away from that, but still. I probably spent 50 minutes talking hockey with Colin yesterday. I'm just sad that I'm not in Edmonton to be a part of the excitement. Colin says it's really brought the city together. He's been lucky enough to be at Game 6 against the Red Wings and the Sharks. Lucky bum!

Tonight is the House season finale. The preview they showed last week nearly knocked me off the couch! I've fought the urge all day today to look up spoilers. It will pay off I'm sure, the episode features House getting shot, and House shooting someone. I have my suspicions about what the episode may hold. But what will I do all summer? :( Maybe I better buy House season one to get me through.

In Top Chef news, it's down to two. Harold & Tiffani. I hope Harold wins. I did watch the reunion show (twice), and I have to say I have changed my mind about Stephen. He came across as a much different person, someone you might even want to be friends with. Ah, the power of editing. I know how the media can twist things to make them more sensational, so I shouldn't be surprised. Unfortunately for Tiffani, the reunion didn't change her domineering persona. Perhaps she too is a much different person. In any case, I'll be rooting for Harold to win on Wednesday night.

A lot of the chefs have been through the Culinary Institute in NYC, and I'm thrilled that Lexi is going there next year. I'm so proud of her! I'm hoping we'll get out to NYC to see her once she's there. We may end up meeting up with several Kroliks there. :) It's still in the dreaming phase, calm down.

We're having meatloaf for dinner tonight, but I need to go start on the potatoes. I'll close with a quote from House.

House: “You’re upset that I’m doing clinic hours? Wow, that is so like rain on your wedding day.”

Weekend

I had a great weekend, some of my family did not.

Uncle Ron got robbed, again. This is the fourth time they've been robbed out at the farm. They weren't home, and Grandma & Grandpa slept through all the garages being ransacked, and a truck crashing into a tree in the ditch outside their house. As I understand, Uncle Ron's truck was recovered 10 minutes after he called the police.

Also in farm news, Auntie Erma (Grandma's sister) had a heart attack. She's being sent to Vancouver to have an angioplasty tomorrow. Please keep her in your prayers. She's such a wonderful lady.

My mom spent a night in the hospital watching over her very good friend who was in a lot of pain. He's doing a bit better now.

I, on the other hand, had a very relaxing weekend. Friday I watched a movie called The I Inside. It starred Ryan Phillippe, Robert Sean Leonard, and Sarah Polley. It's kinda like Memento and Butterfly Effect (the good parts). I'd like to try and watch it again sometime, since I feel like I missed a lot. Friday night we watched the Oilers beat the Ducks. Saturday we went to Cherry Creek North to get Peet's, and that night we watched Brothers Grimm. It was very good, very enjoyable. Sunday, Geoff had to run 10 miles, so we went to late service. This allowed him to make blueberrry pancakes for he & Elijah to eat for breakfast. Sunday night, game two for the Oilers vs. Ducks. We won that one too.

This week I have no plans. Today I want to...
-go to Cost Plus World Market to get more PG Tips (excellent tea bags).
-mail off our baby gift to Colin & Dawn. Ryan's due date is Friday, I hope to connect with Dawn today to find out how she's doing.
-send out emails to CA friends, and make sure I have current cell phone numbers/home numbers.
-type up packing list and info for Myrna about taking care of Honey.

Hope you Canuck friends are enjoying Victoria Day. I'm going to close with a quote from Brothers Grimm.

Will Grimm: I made that armour!
[sighs]
Will Grimm: It's not magic; it's just shiny.

Quiz Time

1. Your name plus "y"
Melissay

2. Two feelings at the moment?
contentment and sleepy

3. What are you listening to right now?
Jet Airliner - Steve Miller Band

4. A part of a song lyric that's in your mind?
"how do you love, when your angels can't sing and your world is still lacking of me"

5. Describe where you are right now?
in the loft

6. The highlight of your week?
Wednesday was a good day

7. What are you craving to have right now?
Ruffles, or an In-N-Out Burger

8. Any unforgettable childhood memory(s)?
I have a lot of great memories. To give one...Mt. Edith Cavell/Angel Glacier with the family

9. A not-so-good childhood memory?
the day Colin and I were told my parents were splitting up

10. What are your nicknames?
Mel, Miss, M

11. Your three plans for tomorrow?
coffee at Caribou, cleaning, napping

12. Are you thinking of someone right now?
always

13. Say something to the person who posted this before you:
I hope to get out to AZ someday and go to that restaurant you like so much (Cooperstown?).

14. What do you want?
money to travel

15. Who is your best friend?
I can't pick just one...Geoff, Lisa, Athena, Honey Cat

16. Say anything you like to whoever is reading your answers?
Are you gonna post this yourself? I might read it

17. Are you feeling hungry?
always

18. Who do you miss right now?
my friends

19. Last friend you talked to online?
Diane (MIL)

20. What do you like about the night?
the quietness

21. If you visited a farm, what would you like to see?
my grandparents (they have a farm)

22. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
archeologist

23. Last gift you got?
uh gee, Diane brought us Cadbury mini eggs at Easter. So not counting food, last gift would be flowers for our anniversary.

24. Did you like it?
yes, I love getting chocolate and flowers.

25. Do you play an instrument? If you do, name it.
no, I wish

26. What song did you last hear?
Time - Gregg Tripp

27. Person you hate most?
Hate is a strong word. There are several people I'd avoid and want nothing to do with.

28. Who makes you laugh the most?
Elijah, the kid is a card. Geoff is a close second.

29. What makes you smile?
music, my boys

30. Who has a crush on YOU?
I'd hope my husband.

31. What was the last thing someone complimented on you today?
the hygienist said I'm doing a good job with my dental care.

To Make You Smile

I really enjoyed yesterday's Get Fuzzy comic, so I thought I'd repost for y'all.

Things I Want To Say

Often I have a lot I want to say, but I censor myself, because it might make someone cry. Or I'll end up getting angry emails. So I don't always get to be the loudmouth, opinionated person you all know and love.

Here are a few things I want to say, feelings and emails be damned.

- I've been here almost 7 years, I want to be a citizen dammit! I came here legally, Geoff offers a lot to the U.S., we should be at the front of the line!

- If you have something to tell me, even if it's one line of an email, I'd rather get that than a second hand message. It means more to have it said first hand. Even if it's one line to say you're pissed I did something to you.

- If it's been more than a week and I haven't returned your email, email me again to tell me to get off my ass and respond. If I haven't written back to you, I'm sorry. My excuse is gonna be lame, but to know you genuinely want to hear back from me, will push me to get on the computer and respond.

- I wish more people from CA would come visit here. I love going out there, but I also love being able to show people how beautiful CO is.

- Please don't ask me every week if Elijah is walking yet. Trust me, when he starts, I'll tell you. He goes at his own pace.

- I am inspired by Geoff, Lisa & Cate, who all took it upon themselves to find some exercise they like. Cate, I remember a few years ago when you took that adult ballet class. I have been searching for one here, to no avail. I may end up taking tap, since it's that or bellydancing. Lisa, you get on your elliptical several days a week and you look awesome. Geoff runs a few times a week, and when he's not training for a marathon, he's still running and going to the gym. I am going to find my activity (other than walking) and get my body into a shape I like. (I chose a triangle. j/k) I am happy with my weight, I just need to tone it now. I wish everyone out there would do something to keep themselves healthy. Find a buddy if you have to.

Sigh, I feel a little better.

Not looking forward to the dentist tomorrow. Geoff's appt went well, but I strongly suspect there is a cavity in my future.

I'll close with a quote from Dirty Work.

Mitch: There's two kinds of people in this world: Those who get stomped on and those who do the stomping.
Kathy: Where'd you come up with that theory?
Mitch: That famous guy said it. What's his name? Uh... Oh, yeah: Jesus

Go Oilers Go!

image courtesy of NHL.com

Best of luck against the Mighty Ducks. They have their work cut out for them.

Blah Blah Blah

Tonight is packed with stuff to see on tv. Scrubs season finale (yes NBC did pick it up for another season), House (will Cuddy find someone to father a child for her? House?) and Oilers vs. Sharks (if Oil wins, they advance, if they lose it goes to game 7). This is why they invented picture and picture. But we don't have that. Nor do we have a DVR. :(
***updated note, my mom emailed to tell me that the hockey game isn't on tonight, rather it is on tomorrow. And it's an early game. Yay!

I've got two play dates scheduled this week. Tomorrow with Amy & Caley, and Friday with Myrna and the twins. Myrna is nice enough to babysit Elijah while I go to the dentist (teeth cleaning only I hope), then we'll hang out. Apparently there is a long weekend, but all the days are the same to me. So don't bother asking if I have plans. :) At best, we may go for a family picnic, since we're swimming in great weather.

I had to resign myself to the fact that Disneyland isn't a reasonable activity for our vacation. My heart wants to go, but it's too much to expect of Elijah to be in his stroller all day. It's not like we won't ever go again. Please, our friends and Krolik family are there. We'll have plenty of trips to CA. It'll wait until he's older.

So I'm counting down to the trip, and to my nephew's due date. I can hardly wait to see the first picture of Ryan. I'm still holding my breath waiting to see if a trip to AB will be possible. Thank goodness I got Athena & Lisa trying to make things easier for me. In my dream world, I have enough money to go there and to D.C. this summer. In my dreams. :)

We watched Psycho (the original) on Saturday night. Neither of us had ever seen it, and though I did know the secret, I didn't know how the movie would end. I guess I'll end with a quote from it.

Norman Bates: She just goes a little mad sometimes. We all go a little mad sometimes. Haven't you?
Marion Crane: Yes. Sometimes just one time can be enough.

The Truth Is Out There

Which X Files character are you?


You are Dana Scully. You're very kind and extremely loyal. You rely on science and reason, but this can often make you come off as frigid and bitchy, of course you're good nature, and not to mention good looks, will win anyone over.
Take this quiz!

Happy Mother's Day

Hope everyone had a great day being nice to the moms in their lives. Thanks to everyone who sent me loving thoughts (you know who you are!)

I found this online, enjoy.

You Know You're a Mom When...

1. Your feet stick to the kitchen floor.....and you don't care.

2. When the kids are fighting, you threaten to lock them in a room
together and not let them out until someone's bleeding.

3. You can't find your cordless phone, so you ask a friend to call you, and you run around the house madly, following the sound until you locate the phone downstairs in the laundry basket.

4. You spend an entire week wearing sweats.

5. Your idea of a good day is making it through without a child leaking
bodily fluids on you.

6. Popsicles become a food staple.

7. Your favorite television show is a cartoon.

8. Peanut butter and jelly is eaten at least in one meal a day.

9. You're willing to kiss your child's boo-boo, regardless of where it is.

10. Your baby's pacifier falls on the floor and you give it back to her, after you suck the dirt off of it because you're too busy to wash it off.

11. Your kids make jokes about burping, pooping, etc. and you think it's funny.

12. You're so desperate for adult conversation that you spill your guts to the telemarketer that calls and HE hangs up on YOU!

13. Spit is your number one cleaning agent.

14. You're up each night until 10 PM vacuuming, dusting, wiping, washing, drying, loading, unloading, shopping, cooking, driving, flushing, ironing, sweeping, picking up, changing sheets, changing diapers, bathing, helping with homework, paying bills, budgeting, clipping coupons, folding clothes, putting to bed, dragging out of bed, brushing, chasing, buckling, feeding (them, not you), PLUS swinging, playing baseball, bike riding, pushing trucks, cuddling dolls, roller balding, basketball, football, catch, bubbles, sprinklers, slides, nature walks, coloring, crafts, jumping rope, PLUS raking, trimming, planting, edging, mowing, gardening, painting, and walking the dog. You get up at 5:30 AM and you have no time to eat, sleep, drink or go to the bathroom, and yet...you still managed to gain 10 pounds.

15. In your bathroom there is toothpaste on the light fixtures, water
all over the floor, a dog drinking out of the toilet and body hair forming a union to protest unsafe working conditions.

16. You buy cereal with marshmallows in it.

17. The closest you get to gourmet cooking is making rice crispies bars

Go Oilers Go!

Best. Game. Ever!

Stubborn

Sigh.

The radio played Jumper (Third Eye Blind), and that song always makes me think. When I'm standing before the throne of God, will God ask me why I didn't do more to help those I know who are lost. I said to Geoff, when do I get to walk away from those who just won't hear, who choose the path of darkness?

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"
Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. - Matt. 18:21-22

So I asked Geoff, so if I get pushed away 77 times, then I can walk away? And Geoff said, no, 77 times means, you don't ever give up on anyone.

Only God can save the lost, I can't save anyone, but I can not turn my back on them. Even though they hurt me. Even though they live in darkness, embracing it.

Why is it so hard to love them? I want a heart that loves them. That is what I pray for. For God to take my stubbornness, my bitterness, and replace it with a heart for those He loves.

Quote For The Day

"Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren't."
- Margaret Thatcher

Friday's Random Ten

For Geoff, ten random songs about running.

Long Time Running - Tragically Hip
Run - Collective Soul
Run Through The Jungle - CCR
Running Scared - Roy Orbison
Run Like Hell - Pink Floyd
Run For Your Life - The Beatles
Take The Money And Run - Steve Miller Band
Run To You - Bryan Adams
Runnin' With The Devil - Van Halen
Run Runaway - Great Big Sea

-----------------

On a hockey note...
-I was thrilled Edmonton was the only team in the semi finals that wasn't down 3-0.
-They don't call them the Mighty Ducks for nuthin'! Ouch!

Better Now

The cold wasn't so bad, it didn't last too long. It kept me indoors until Tuesday, when I finally felt well enough to go for a walk up to Safeway. The two signs of feeling better:
-being able to do the walk to Safeway (about 4 miles round trip) and
-being able to sing

I love VH1 Classic. This week I saw a video (Hands To Heaven) from one of my favorite cheesy ballady bands, Breathe. Sigh, I love me a good cheesy ballad!

I got together with my friend Amy twice this week. She was in my Mom To Mom group. She wants to get together again next week. She has a daughter who is almost 4 months old. It's so much fun to hang with someone whose kid is younger than Elijah.

Even with the cold gone, I'm still having strange dreams. I'll spare you the oddness (well I didn't spare Lisa, 'cause that's what best friends are for). My subconscious really needs to take a break from the past, and from tv. :)

I made cupcakes tonight while Geoff was away at his men's group. I've had a bad craving for chocolate!

No big plans for the weekend. Geoff has to do a lot of running. BTW, Geoff posted info on the pictures from the Cherry Creek Sneak. So check out his blog.

I got 3rd Rock From The Sun, Season One on DVD from the library, and I'm plowing through it. It's such a funny show. I'll close with a quote from it.

Mary Albright: I think you look distinguished with gray hair.
Dick Solomon: Thank you. I think you would look distinguished with gray hair, too.
Mary Albright: No. When men get gray hair, they look distinguished. When women get gray hair, they look old.
Dick Solomon: When women get breasts, they look sexy. When men get breasts, they look old.
Mary Albright: Good point!

Two Words

courtesy of Roland

YOU *C A N *O N L Y *T Y P E *T W O *W O R D S !

N O *E X P L A N A T I O N S !

Two Word Survey:

1. Yourself: Melissa Armstrong

2. Your car: Grey Gary

3. Your hair: long brown

4. Your mother: my mom

5. Your father: is missed

6. Your favorite item: potato chips

7. Your dream last night: party people

8. Your favorite drink: coca cola

9. Your dream home: near friends

10. The room you are in: very messy

11. Your pet: Honey Cat

12. Your fear: someone dying

13. Where you want to be in ten years: equally blessed

14. Who you hung out with last night: hubby Geoff

15. What you're not: patient, wealthy

16. Your best friend: Geoff, Lisa

17. One of your wish items: Rolls Royce

18. Your gender: cute girl

19. The last thing you did: met friend

20. What you are wearing: cami, jeans

21. Your favorite weather: warm fall

22. Your favorite book: Princess Bride

23. The last thing you ate: mashed potatoes

24. Your life: blessed, crazy

25. Your mood: funny, wired

26. The last person you talked to on the phone: Lisa babe

I'm A Monster!

Your Monster Profile

Behemoth Slimer You Feast On: Pie You Lurk Around In: Swingers Clubs You Especially Like to Torment: Hairdressers

What's Your Monster Name?

Quote For The Day

"We didn't lose the game, we just ran out of time."
-Vince Lombardi

Better Or Worse

Nope, I'm not better. I didn't get a good night sleep as needed, neither did Elijah. Apparently neither did Geoff. I went to the store to stock up on more Kleenex. I'm trying to take it easy. I was able to nap for about an hour, that was after an hour of lying in bed listening to all the neighborhood dogs barking and Elijah talking to himself in his crib. Right before I woke up, I was having a crazy dream. I was talking to Athena on the phone, and there were giant lobsters crawling all over my front yard. The door swung open and shut, I was afraid Elijah had crawled out the door into the fray with the lobsters. I was yelling where the heck is Geoff?! I woke up because Elijah was crying, and while I was getting up to get him a bottle, Geoff phoned. I think this cold is making me delusional.

Well, I'm happy to say I'll be doing my first garage sale in 2 weeks. The HOA is advertising sales for everyone in the neighborhood who wants to partake. So all I have to do is set up on my driveway. Yay! Now I just need to get organized with what I want to sell.

Celebrity Poker Showdown is coming back! May 31st we'll get some new celebrities, some familiar ones, one old co-host, and one new co-host. What? Yes, Phil Gordon left CPS. His replacement is Phil Hellmuth, another poker legend. Why the change in Phils? Gordon sites that he just wants to do something new and different. I'm sure the show will be fine w/o him, I just really enjoyed the banter between him and Dave. Here's a list of the guests you'll see in this tournament.

Game 1 - Jorge Garcia, Andrea Martin, Kim Coles, Greg Behrendt, and Michael Ian Black.
Game 2 - Jason Alexander, Kevin Sorbo, Bryan Cranston, Susie Essman, and Jamie Bamber.
Game 3 - Fred Savage, Jennifer Tilly, Doug E. Doug, Brett Butler, and Ida Siconolfi.
Game 4 - Jenna Fischer, Keegan-Michael Key, Rocco DiSpirito, Jordan Peele, and Mario Cantone.
Game 5 - Andy Dick, Macy Gray, Christopher Meloni, Joy Behar, and Robin Tunney.

In other Bravo news, the final three on Top Chef... Harold, Dave and Tiffani. Couldn't believe Lee Anne didn't make it. I think it wasn't so much her dish, but a cumulative of the last two challenges. It was her menu for the commitment ceremony, and she was in charge of Miguel & Stephen for the spanish restaurant. The finale is in two weeks, next week they'll do a reunion show with all the chefs. I may not tune in the night it airs, but I'll likely catch the rerun.

Anyways, I better sign off. I have to go convince Elijah he needs to sleep. Pray for me. :) I'll close with a quote from A Mighty Wind.

Lars Olfen: I had a garage band in Stockholm, which was a challenge in its own right, to keep an instrument tuned with that temperature swing. There's a block warmer for the Volvo in the garage but it's cold in there in the winter. So we played and I had a hit that you might have heard of. "Hur Är Läget, Lilla Gumman?" which means, "How's It Hanging, Grandma?" and it was big on the Swedish charts.

Two Birds, One Cold

Geoff shared his cold with me & Elijah. Elijah is only showing signs of a runny nose, I have the throbbing head, sore throat, runny nose and watery eyes. And Geoff is off to his men's retreat today. Had we not paid for his trip, I would have asked him to stay home. But it'll be okay, don't feel sorry for me. Just send well wishes.

BTW- I finished the book The Portrait (Iain Pears). It was really good. I loved the way the author wrote, and even not knowing much of anything about art, it didn't hinder me plowing through it. A real page turner, I thought.

It Isn't Friday?

I totally thought today was Friday. I was getting all ready for the weekend, I dressed Elijah in his Friday socks, and that's when I realized it wasn't really Friday. My life is a little weird.

House this week was good. No surprise there, but I loved not having to wait a week to learn Foreman's fate. Naturally I'm dying to see next week's episode. I taped Scrubs, and to my dismay, the tape ran out. So I didn't get the whole episode. I barely got any. Ergh! VCRs are so 20th century! Ah, but that is what summer reruns are for I guess.

The weather here has been so up and down, it's warm, it's chilly, it won't make up its mind. I shouldn't complain, the summer can get pretty warm, almost unbearably so.

Well, I'm gonna get myself a cup of tea, and return some emails (Cate you're first).

I'm closing with a quote from Forget Paris.

Mickey: You just had one of those 'I glued a bird to my head' days.

Hey SoCal Friends...

Today you can get a free lunch at Pat & Oscars (Tustin Marketplace location only) between 10-4. So go and get yummy food!

80 Questions

Do you watch the Gilmore girls?
yeah right!

Have you ever enjoyed listening to Jack Johnson?
not really. I did enjoy watching Ben Stiller in his video though.

Have you ever seen or enjoyed watching the O.C.?
I've seen one episode (thanks Lexi!)

Do you have one or more Britney Spears C.D.?
God No! Ewww!

Do you regularly watch the news?
every day

Which radio stations are your favorites?
here in CO I like 103.5 The Fox, in CA - 88.9 KUCI, in Edm 100.3 The Bear

Are you a Lost fanatic?
no, but I want to be
__________________________________________________
[[Be honest]]
__________________________________________________

Do you have a song by Ozzy Osbourne in your library?
Geoff has some Sabbath in our shared music folder, but I'd never listen to it

Queen?
sure

Alanis Morissette?
yeah

Do you watch Family Guy regularly?
you bet

The Simpsons?
not regularly. Haven't seen a recent episode in years.

King of the Hill?
Used to watch it regularly, but not anymore. It's still a good show, but not must-see for me
_____________________________________________
[[Admit it]]
_________________________________________________

Do you read trashy romance novels often?
nope

Do you really work out every day?
I try to walk several times a week.

Have you ever eaten chocolate in bed?
sure

Have you ever eaten an entire pint, or more, ice cream by yourself?
no, but I might if I had the right flavor and the right mood

Do you shower every single morning, no exceptions?
no, I shower every other day, and if it doesn't fall on a day I have plans, I'll shower that day

Do you ever forget to give an xmas/birthday present & instead keep it for yourself?
probably once when I was younger

Do you sing obnoxiously in the shower when no one's home?
I sing obnoxiously anywhere in the house when no one is home

Do you go nights without brushing your teeth?
rarely

Have you ever watched a little kid's show when you were over 12?
please. Of course.

Have you ever looked forward to go to school?
only to see my friends
___________________________________________________
[[The Necessary Love Questions That Aren't So Necessary]]
___________________________________________________

What did you draw for your first crush back in elementary school/preschool?
couldn't tell you

Have you ever liked a girl/boy but didnt ask her/him out b/c you were afraid?
all the time

Have you and a (past or present) significant other ever made an 'Our Song'?
please. Of course

Have you ever written a poem about your love life?
you bet, in high school

An autobiography?
no but I've thought about it. afraid of the repercussions

Have you ever listened to a song repeatedly just because it reminded you of your crush?
oh yeah

Have you ever spent over an hour thinking about nothing but your crush? straight?
maybe

Do you reread meaningless AIM convos just because they're with your crush?
no, they didn't have that back then.

Have you ever reconsidered liking someone because of their appearance?
yeah

Have you ever liked someone solely for their appearance?
totally
____________________________________________________
[[The Questions You Love: Completely and Utterly Pointless Ones]]
____________________________________________________

Do you eat all the servings in the food groups on a daily basis?
hello, do you know me at all?

Are you ever a freak about cleanliness or organization?
sometimes

Have you ever been to South America or Africa?
no

Have you ever owned a Klutz book or kit?
no

Do you know how to knit?
no

Do you have a cellphone or iPod with a patterened cover?
no

Have you ever written song lyrics yourself and put them in your profile?
not likely

Do you keep a diary or journal (online or on paper)?
yes

Do you own a striped sweater?
not anymore

How often do you take a bubble bath?
I used to all the time, but I haven't made that kind of time for myself lately

When you open your closet, what are the color of your clothes?
blue, brown, reds
___________________________________
[[Truly Unusual This or That Questions]]
__________________________________________________

Baskin Robbins or Coldstone?
Baskin Robbins

Sees or Godiva?
I'm not crazy about Sees, and I've never had Godiva. I choose Harry & David!

The Shins or the Decemberists?
The Shins

America or Canada?
I have to pick? America to live in, but Canada will always have a place in my heart

Physics or chemistry?
which has less math? <--what Roland said

Earphones or headphones?
earphones, they are easier for dancing

All I'm Saying

Go Oilers Go!

(Elijah in his Oiler shirt from Andrew & Athena)
Geoff and I were able to catch the exciting 3rd period of the Oilers/Wings game. What a match! I can't believe they are advancing to the next round. Apparently they haven't done that in 8 years.

Go Oilers Go!

Weekend

naturally I had my iPod with me for the Sneak, so here's a look at the tunes I walked to. I didn't realize until I typed it up how Canadian it was.

This Is How We Do It - Montell Jordan
I Love A Rainy Night- Eddie Rabbit
Runnin' Down A Dream - Tom Petty
Boogie Oogie Oogie - A Taste Of Honey
Angel - Madonna
Roadside Attraction - Spirit Of The West
Walk - Paul Bellows
'Til I Am Myself Again - Blue Rodeo
Consequence Free - Great Big Sea
Sadness Grows - Spirit Of The West
Voodoo People - Prodigy

This weekend we watched Chicken Little. It was cute, I liked it. I'm not sure we'll buy it just yet. Elijah isn't at the age where he sits through a movie. He can make it through a Baby Einstein video, but that's about it. And he has to be in a certain mood to do that. I am glad he isn't obsessed with tv (not like his mother).

It's nice to have Geoff home, at least for a few days. There is a men's retreat this weekend, so I'm alone this weekend. That's fine, I have books to read, and DVDs from the library to watch. On tap is De-Lovely, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith.

We get TWO House episodes this week! Tuesday (8pm) & Wednesday night (7pm). What will I do when the season ends? I sure hope Fox gives me reruns. :)

Not much planned for this week. Just trying to take it easy, and get in a few walks. I may try to set up a playdate with Myrna. She was so excited when I asked her to cat sit for our San Diego/Irvine trip. No joke. She got all giddy, and said we get to play with Honey? Her kids ask about Honey & Elijah all the time. It's so cute.

I finally watched Quigley Down Under all the way through. I bought it for Geoff years ago, since it's one of his favorite movies. There was a quote in the movie last night that I really liked, turns out it was a popular expression in the 19th century. I'll close with that.

Matthew Quigley: "God made all men, Samuel Colt made them equal."

Sneakers

The Armstrongs participated in their 2nd Cherry Creek Sneak this morning. The weather was much nicer this year than last year. We actually got sun today.



Here is Elijah and Mommy about to cross the finish line. Our stats for the race (5K/3.1 Miles):
Time- 46:31 Pace: 15 min.
#142 for my division (Women aged 25-29)



Here is Geoff about to cross the finish line (green hat). His stats for the race (5 Miles):
Time- 40:30 Pace: 8.06 min.
#62 for his division (Men aged 25-29)

They have professionals taking pictures at the race, but those won't be up for a few days. I'll post them when they are available.

Which House Character Are You?

Which House MD character are you?

You are Dr. Robert Chase. You repress your emotions and almost always present a calm front. You punish yourself unnecessarily. You seem to be charming and friendly, yet you can be dishonest and selfish at times.
Take this quiz!

Quote For The Day

Truth has no special time of its own. Its hour is now - always.
-Albert Schweitzer

Thursday Thursday

One more day until we become a normal family again. :)

Tuesday night, I watched House (AWESOME!). Lisa watched it too, and interpreted something different than I did, so it wasn't a big shock to her to learn Wilson's secret (I gasped). Wednesday morning I watched Scrubs, which I had sort of taped, and nearly cried. It was a combination of them picking the right song for the scene, it was so well done. It also helps that it's my current favorite song. But then Scrubs is always good about picking great music.

Wednesday night's tv was Top Chef and....dun dun dun! Stephen got the boot!

Today I had my last Mom To Mom. It was our farewell brunch, I brought devil cookies.


After much thought, I think I will return to MTM next year. I do value the friendships I made there, and I hope to continue them over the summer. I already have one coffee date scheduled for tomorrow, and another one will be in May. here's a picture of my group, minus Temple (on vacation) and Denise (just had a baby).



Tonight, I was able to have a long phone call with Athena. Yay! It was just like old times (B.S. - Before Stephanie). I hope we can do it again really soon. There is always so much to talk about, and now we get to add Mom stuff to it. After I got off the phone, Elijah and I crashed the Building Brothers meeting. I told them I would, but I don't think they believed me. It wasn't quite what I thought it would be, and Geoff, I don't think I'll do it again. It was too manly for me. (I'll tell you about it tomorrow)

Tomorrow, I'm going to go for a walk. Having the car this week spoiled me, and I didn't get out much. I need the fresh air, and it's so nice here. I think it's going to rain tonight, which would be nice, I was too hot last night.

I think I'll leave the tv off for the night and just lie on the couch and read. As soon as I finish my current book (which I should do tonight), I'm going to read a book Kelly recommended. It's called The Portrait, by Iain Pears. The premise sounded interesting, and it is a short book.

Speaking of books, Kelly, roman and I brainstormed a book idea while they were here. I keep thinking about it, and it might make a good short story. I may end up jotting some ideas around, but since Kelly clearly has the writing skills, I'll leave it in her busy hands to polish. :) I'm not going to reveal the idea, because you all might steal it! And I could use the money.

I'll close with a quote from this week's episode of House.

House: He is not a saint. He figures out what's going on in people's lives by watching, listening, deducing...
Dr. Wilson: And you're worried about trademark infringement?

Proust/Lipton

It took me a while to do this, I had to give it some thought. I'm not even sure if I answered them right. It would be interesting to go over it again in ten years.

The Proust Questions

What is your most marked characteristic?
My sense of humor/quick wit

What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Elijah

When and where were you happiest?
I've had a lot of great moments,and I know it's cliche, but Elijah's birth and our wedding day.

What is your greatest regret?
There are a few moments I wish I'd made more of.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Being at peace with God.

What is your most treasured possession?
My yellow blankie

Where would you like to live?
If money were no object... SoCal, near Kroliks. :)

What is your greatest fear?
Being a bad mom and wife.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I have to pick just one? My struggle with loving my enemies.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?
thoughtlessness

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
open-mindedness. I don't think it's a virtue at all.

What is your greatest extravagance?
My stain glass window.

What is your favorite journey?
marriage

What is it that you most dislike?
bad drivers.

What is the quality you most like in a man?
respecting others

What is the quality you most like in a woman?
honesty

What do you most value in your friends?
loyalty

If you were to come back as a person or thing, what do you think it would be?
I dunno, I would probably come back as someone similar to myself, to learn what I didn't.

If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be?
I'd like to be a jazz singer, or a cat.

How would you like to die?
I'd like to not die, but to be raptured.

The James Lipton Questions

What is your favorite word?
Grace.

What is your least favorite
so many to choose from...patience

What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
a perfect moment

What turns you off?
ignorance

What is your favorite curse word?
I guess the one I say the most is the S -word. (no not sword)

What sound or noise do you love?
Elijah laughing.

What sound or noise do you hate?
nails on a file.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
given that I don't really have a profession, I'd love to be a singer.

What profession would you not like to do?
anything with math.

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?
"well done my good and faithful servant"-Matthew 25:21

Quote For The Day

"Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."
-Abraham Lincoln

Congratulations!!!!

Happy Happy Joy Joy!
Doug, Kirsty & Lillian welcomed Noah James to their family on Saturday. Everyone is healthy and doing great. We're so happy for you, and we can't wait to meet the little man. He's so cute!

Stats:
Noah James Herbert
Born: April 22, 1 am
Weight: 7 lbs, 1 oz
Length: 20 in

LOL

Since I'm playing single mom this week, I'm filling my evenings with reading some books and watching Soap. It's so funny!

I have been trying to find the right words to share with an anonymous reader, who apparently visits here to get info on someone other than me. Cyber-stalker, get over yourself. She's not coming back, she's in love with a wonderful man, and doing creepy things... doesn't win a woman back. Trust me!

I won't say the internet isn't good for finding people, but it shouldn't be used for evil. I have found and reconnected with a few old friends. If nothing else, I've been able to get a recap on their lives, and that's where it ends. If you read this blog, and you want to say hi, by all means do so. I won't promise we'll be tight friends, but I will respond to your email. :)

I had a great weekend, despite having to say goodbye to Geoff. Kelly & Roman were so much fun to hang with. We played Clue Museum Caper and Trivial Pursuit (Canadian Edition), and we ate tasty food. Did you know there are only two Earl's in the U.S.? One happens to be beside Park Meadows mall.

It was a hot weekend, and today it snowed. We are suppose to get back to warm weather by Thursday.

I'll close with a quote from Soap.

Mary Gatling Dallas Campbell: I have one son who's about to become my daughter, another son whom people are trying to kill, I have a lunatic stepson and a dummy living in my home and a husband who won't make love to me. That's not life, that's something by Tennessee Williams!

Why I Love Geoff

Driving to the airport early this morning, I looked out on the open space.

Melissa: Hey, I just 4 baby deer. 4 fawns.
Geoff: aaaaay.

(if you don't get it, then that's why you aren't married to Geoff and I am. It was hilarious to me)

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Amy & Brody on their engagement. Isn't love grand?

What's Goin' On

Just a few little things to share:

Glen- I thought of you Tuesday night. The patient on House had the plague! I know how fond you are of that disease. It's was gross!

On Top Chef this week- Miguel is gone. He wasn't being assertive enough. Frankly after last week's mix up of salt & sugar, I wasn't surprised he got the boot. But it was almost Stephen! oooh, missed it by that much.

Mom To Mom wraps up next week with a brunch. I had a long talk today with Myrna (who is tight with leadership), and she asked me to give MTM another chance next year. She admitted this year was a lot of fluff, but that next year would be better. She also said she was planning on suggesting me to join the leadership team next year. I'm gonna pray about it. It meant a lot to me that Myrna thought I'd be a good addition to the leadership team. :)

My friend Kirsten (from MTM) wants to get together next week for coffee/lunch/whatever, since her mother-in-law will be in town and she needs to get away. Tomorrow, I'm meeting Temple at Peet's (she's also in my MTM group). She's never been to Peet's, and she likely won't go much after that since she's moving out to Evergreen (that's 30-60 min outside of Denver, towards the mountains).

Kelly & Roman arrive tomorrow evening. They are staying at the Doubletree in Aurora. We are early risers (7am every day) and they aren't so it'll be more comfortable for them. But we're going to get in good cousin bonding time.

I plowed through my first season of Ned & Stacey, and now I'm suffering because they haven't released season 2 (there are only 2 seasons). Sigh. Well, I'm gonna close with a quote from it.

Amanda: "So, uh, what about you, you have a girlfriend?"
Bobby Van Lowe: "Oh--no. You try having a personal life working thirty hours a week, twenty-two weeks out of the year."

Blah Blah Blah

Thought I'd do a real post.

Had a lovely Easter weekend. Geoff made turkey Saturday night. Sunday we went to church and Pastor Jim gave a super sermon. The music was so-so, I cried when we sang The Wondrous Cross, because I couldn't help but think that Jesus died for all sin. He paid the penalty for my sin, and the sins of the world. And I cry for those I love who either walked away from God, or have never opened their heart to him. All I can do is pray for them.

I can hardly believe April is nearly gone. Geoff is gone next week, and two days after he gets back, we have the Cherry Creek Sneak. Then the following weekend he's gone to a men's retreat. Then it will be Mother's Day. I feel like I'm losing all my weekends! :) It'll be okay, busy weekends can be good.

I have been having problems sleeping through the night. I wake up at midnight, and my mind is racing, and I can't fall back asleep. I don't even know why, it's not even keeping me up with important stuff, just trivial crap. Last week I was up at 5:30am one morning, I couldn't sleep, I felt sick to my stomach and annoyed at the same time. I had to type Geoff an email to get my thoughts out, since he was sleeping. I didn't really get to resolve that issue, but we were able to talk about it, sort of. It was eerily like an episode of Friends.

"did you read my email?"
"yes."
(long pause)
"So...what did you think?"
"I agree."
(long pause)
"That's it?"

I guess it's true, there wasn't much more to say, but I was glad he felt the way I did. But I hate not resolving things, I hate leaving them out there.

In tv land, I have 2 episodes of Scrubs on tape I still haven't watched. Frankly, I enjoy watching House more. If I had a DVR, it would be different, but since the episodes are on VHS (ugh), I have to go up and watch it on the small tv, and rewind the tape (double ugh). I'm such a snob eh? I'm still watching Top Chef (on Bravo). I think in the end I hope Lee Anne wins. I just can't wait for Stephen to "pack up his knives and go". It's a shame I know no one else watching it, so I have to discuss it with you guys, and you don't know what I'm talking about. :)

I'm gonna close with a quote from Best In Show.

Sherri Ann Cabot: We have so much in common, we both love soup and snow peas, we love the outdoors, and talking and not talking. We could not talk or talk forever and still find things to not talk about.