The Water Bowl

Changes

2009-07-21T18:17:00.003-05:00

A lot of changes have been happening in my life. Because of this, my blog updates have been very limited. Stay tuned to find out more. You Live, You Learn

Foto Friday

2009-07-17T21:03:00.002-05:00

playing with webcam

Dog gestures

2009-07-14T15:12:00.001-05:00

Check out this news article about how dogs can read human gestures as well as a 2-year old child. Very interesting.

You Live, You Learn.

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-07-14T13:16:00.002-05:00

This month Tune-riffic Tuesday is focusing on Bitter:Sweet. Today's song is Dirty Laundry.

"Let's go to Mexico,

Drink Margaritas and sin"

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn

Sand dollars

2009-07-08T14:14:00.003-05:00

For the 4th of July weekend, I went down to the beach. After getting Hope, Prada, and Louie set-up, I decided to go out for a walk. I had walked past the pier where the beach becomes private. I happened to see a huge group of seagulls sitting there. Some were watching me, while others watched the waves roll in.

As I got closer though, they flew away. Much to my amazement, they were sitting on sand dollars! Lots and lots of sand dollars. I immediately rushed over to pick them up. I reached down to pick the first one up and it immediately broke apart. So, I went for another one. The same thing happened. With so many around me, I wasn't worried...yet. I decided to dig into the sand around the next one and pick it up that way, but this also produced a broken sand dollar.

That's when I realized that the hundreds of sand dollars that the seagulls were sitting on/around, weren't actually sand dollars. Nope. Not at all. Not even close. The perfectly white, round, little lines making it look just like a sand dollar was seagull poop. Yup. How embarrassing. The seagull poop has seeped a little into the sand and was a perfect match for a sand dollar. I don't know which is worse: thinking that seagull poop was a sand dollar or it taking me multiple attempts to figure it out. You Live, You Learn.

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-07-07T10:31:00.003-05:00

This is the first Tuesday in July which means that Tune-riffic Tuesday will focus on a new Artist! This month, I have decided to focus on an artist that has a different sound from all of my other Tune-riffic Tuesday's. I really like their music. I love the beats, their voice, the sounds, the lyrics, and the different-ness but classy-ness they bring to the table.

This month Tune-riffic Tuesday will focus on..... Bitter:Sweet. Today's song is "The Bomb." You may recognize tune/song because it was the theme song for the television show "Lipstick Jungle." (Which, by the way, I LOVED and think it should still be on the air...) Their sound, to me, oozes New York exclusive apartment party. Their music has also been featured in the movie "The Devil Wears Prada."

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn

Foto Friday

2009-07-03T08:44:00.004-05:00

Packing

2009-07-03T08:32:00.003-05:00

Well, I'm packing!!! Getting ready to head to the beach for the 4th of July! Hope, Prada, and Louie see the luggage coming out, and they are getting excited. Hopefully, it won't be too hot for them. More details to come. You Live, You Learn.

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-06-30T21:55:00.002-05:00

This month's Tune-riffic Tuesday is focusing on PINK.

Today's tune is Sober by PINK on her FUNHOUSE CD.

"When it's good, then it's good, it's so good, 'til it goes bad

'Til you try to find the you that you once had

I've heard myself cry, never again

Broken down in agony, just trying to find a friend"

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn

Save Our Chairs

2009-06-29T20:03:00.002-05:00

Well, this is the last post for the current Save Our Chairs campaign. I hope that you have been doing a great job. If you haven't, sometimes it's the thought that counts. Just keep that thought in mind and put it into action later on. Remember, small changes add up.

This week, I continued with my walk/jog, but didn't do it to my fullest extent. Also, I had a friend come and stay with me the weekend and decided to take a few days off from my walk/jog. I was extremely nervous of what the scale was going to say when I hopped on. So, I got the scale out and put one foot on...then reluctantly put the other foot on it. After a few seconds, I looked down to see what the damage was. To my utter amazement, I had lost more weight! I immediately jumped off and jumped back on to make sure the reading was going to be the same. Sure enough, it was. I had met my goal for the month. I had lost 10 pounds!! I started out at 194 and ended with 184.

I would preferably like to lose 5 more pounds so that I will be in the 170s. I am also about to start back working out to get my body a little leaner. I'm going to do P90X to help get myself in tip-top-shape...hopefully. Don't worry, I won't leave you out of this endeavor. You will be there all the pain!!! You Live, You Learn.

Foto Friday

2009-06-26T14:17:00.003-05:00

Photo session with Tara's children. Check out her blog.

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn

Which Watch? (update)

2009-06-25T09:45:00.002-05:00

I have decided to go with Contestant Number 1!!! Remember, it's the grey Nooka watch with bubbles. It was the most popular by readers, and I think it will be the most versatile. I haven't decided if I am going to go ahead and get it or wait and get it for myself as a Christmas present. Thanks for all of you that voted!! You Live, You Learn.

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-06-23T08:28:00.002-05:00

This month Tune-riffic Tuesday is focusing on PINK and your latest CD "Funhouse." Today's song choice is.... "Crystal Ball." It is a slow, folksy style song that is about all the things she had wished for and had seen in a crystal ball disappearing and eluding her because there are cracks in the crystal ball.

"Love just needs a witness and a little forgiveness

And a halo of patience and a less sporadic pace

And I'm learning to be brave in my beautiful mistakes."

Enjoy

You Live, You Learn

Save Our Chairs

2009-06-22T20:29:00.003-05:00

This past week I went on vacation (but I told everyone at work that I was "sick" and going to the "doctor" to get "treatment.") While down at the beach, I PIG-ED out. Yup. It's true. I still continued to go for walks/jogs everyday even though it was 100 degrees and the heat index was 110 degrees. Obviously, the heat helped me sweat more because somehow I have lost 1 more pound! YAY! So, that brings me down to 187.

Although I am extremely excited about 1 more pound lost, I was hoping to have lost more (even though I didn't try hard this past week.) But, considering the temperature and the heat index, I think I have been doing very good. I mostly only did 1 lap each day instead of 2 that I have been doing. So, with all this information, I do feel very proud to have lost 1 pound.

I hope you are doing a wonderful job too! I know you can do it.

I know that my posts lately haven't been a huge focus on Hope, Prada, Louie, or Dr. Feel. The main reason is that it's so hot (even inside with the AC) that they just chill out most of the day. Hopefully, this heat wave will decrease and more fun and exciting stuff will start back!

You Live, You Learn

Foto Friday

2009-06-20T14:46:00.003-05:00

Okay...So all this week I have been a day late on uploading my post. So sorry. Here is Foto Friday on Saturday! It's a photograph of me in the pool.

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn.

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-06-17T10:01:00.003-05:00

So... I forgot to post Tune-riffic Tuesday yesterday. So, here's Tune-riffic Wednesday!

This month Tune-riffic Tuesday will highlight PINK

Today's song is "Mean" by PINK. "Mean" is about when/how a relationship goes bad. It has a southern blues/rock feel to it. It starts out with a 30 second guitar intro. The words are so powerful and full of emotion. Full of hope, full of dreams, full of going back, full of faith, full of confusion.

(I do need to do a disclaimer because she does say 2 curse words in the 1st verse.)

"How did we get so mean?

How do we just move on?

How do you feel in the morning when it comes

And everything's undone?

Is it 'cause we wanna be free?

Well, that's not me.

Normally I'm so strong

I just can't wake up on the floor

Like a thousand times before

Knowing that forever won't be

I know we said somethings that we can never take back

It's like a train wreck, trying to hit the right track

We opened up the wine, and we just let it breathe

but we shoulda drank it down while it was still sweet

It all goes bad eventually"

Save Our Chairs

2009-06-15T20:40:00.003-05:00

This is the 2nd week of Save Our Chairs campaign! Hope you are doing a great job. Again this week, I just focused on physical activity. (I continued with my jogging/walking.) Last week, I had only lost 1 pound and that was heart breaking. So, when I stepped on the scales this time, I knew not to get my hopes up.

SURPRISE SURPRISE!!! I stepped on the scales and boy was I shocked but in a great way. Remember, I started out at 192. Last week, I weighed in at 191. This week, I weigh 188. That's a total of 4 pounds! This puts me on track for a 10 pound loss by the end of the month. I'm so freaking excited about this. I know that it's only 4 pounds...but when you're losing weight...that's a lot. I'm really excited about what next week may hold.

This week, I will continue with my physical activity. I was going to try to work more on my nutrition, but I will be on vacation some this week. And, well, you know how it is when you're on vacation and you're on a "diet."

I hope that you are having great success. Please leave a comment and let me know how you're doing! Keep it up! You Live, You Learn.

Which watch?

2009-06-15T09:28:00.004-05:00

Okay people! I need your help deciding which watch to get. The options are very futuristic, which I LOVE. They are very unique. I have been contemplating which one to get but I just can't decide. So... I need help! Below are the watches/descriptions. Comment to let me know which one! Thanks. (Click on the Contestant to see the watch.)

Contestant Number 1--Nooka Zub Zot GG 38 (Grey)

I LOVE it because it's different. I like the bubbles that represent the hours. I like the straight lines too. This version really doesn't have a lot of color options, so I chose grey. I would prefer white but reviewers have said it gets dirty and doesn't come clean. So, a grey one would be close to white and hide dirt. I could wear this one to work, out on the town, and jogging/exercising. It seems very versatile. This is the most expensive.

Contestant Number 2--Nooka Zub Zot YL 20 (Yellow)

I LOVE it because it's so similar to Contestant Number 1 but with more color choices. Again, I like the bubbles. Although this version has more color options, it doesn't have the straight lines of the wrist part. It's not a deal breaker though, but it does make it look more like other watches. I LOVE that it's bright because that would make me want to wear it! I could definitely wear it out on the town and jogging/exercising. I could even wear it to work. It might not be business-like but it definitely shows style and personality. This is $10 cheaper than Contestant Number 1.

Contestant Number 3--Tokyoflash Fire

I LOVE it because it is so futuristic. I haven't seen anyone with this. It's "so 3008, and everyone else is so 2000 and late." It's not any harder to tell time than the other watches. It doesn't always show the time. You have to press a button to show the time. I kinda like that because it shows time with LED lights and that would be bright all the time. Also, when it's not showing the time it looks so cool on the wrist. It looks like a speaker or something. I also love the silver and the LED colors. I could wear it to work, out on the town, and jogging/exercising. This is $50 cheaper than Contestant Number. In the price department, this is definitely in the lead.

Cake

2009-06-14T16:59:00.032-05:00

This post will be written in real time so you can get the full effect. I hope this goes well...

5:00pm

It's been a very long time since I've tried to truly cook something from scratch. Well, today I am breaking that very long time. (I have already given notice to the local fire department, and they are on stand-by.) I just got back from the store with all the ingredients that I need (well, hopefully all the ingredients...).

I get myself in some crazy situations. I believe that I can do anything if I just try. Well... Tara's (co-worker/friend) daughter is having a birthday party very soon. She found a cake online that she loved, and I opened my big mouth and said, "That looks so freaking easy and fun! That's just simple. Way simple. Way easy." (Me...the person that can't cook. And, yes she knows about my pork chop cooking incident.) So, I think you can imagine where this is going...I'm about to start on the birthday cake. The good news is that this is just a trial run. So, if it flops it's not a major set-back and a little girl won't be thinking that I ruined her birthday party.

5:10pm

I'm currently looking for the cake pans and the big blender.

5:14pm

It's not called a blender. It's called a mixer. Found all the stuff. Now, as a side note, I have never, ever, ever, ever, never baked anything in my life besides some cookies. (They weren't from scratch. They were the Pillsbury kind that you just break off, put on a cookie sheet, put in oven, take out of oven, and eat.) Another side note, when I was in high school I took Home Economics and could do a mean basket weave...go ahead and laugh...and go ahead and be impressed.

5:20pm

Becoming overwhelmed...

5:22pm

Blend dry mix, water, oil and eggs in large bowl at low speed until moistened (about 30 seconds). Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes. Ummm.. I don't see a "blend" button or a "beat" button. Becoming slightly more overwhelmed...

5:30pm

I think I'm "beating" it right now.

5:33pm

I'M IN A DELIMNA...I don't know about cakes rising up and stuff. I don't know how much to put in each cake pan. Oh Lord...

5:38pm

Almost finished with the second cake batter mix. Still don't know about the rising of the cake...

5:45pm

"Beating," "Blending," "Whipping," "Whatevering" to the third cake mix. I've decided to fill the cake pans almost 3/4 full. This is either gonna be good...bad...or ugly.

5:50pm

Cake pans just went into the oven. Thank God I didn't have to try to fit another cake pan in there. I'm gonna go ahead and clean up my mess. Still very nervous about this rising of the cakes business.

5:58pm

Just finished cleaning up. Happened to look at the oven and OMG the cake pans are filling up fast! Again, this is either gonna be good, bad, or ugly...

6:02pm

I've pulled up a chair, and I am staring at the cakes baking. Looking for any sign of rising over the cake pan.

6:05pm

Oh my my my. One cake pan is to the brim and another is on it's way! (I'm breathing like I am in labor... he he who who he he who who). My oven mittens are on stand-by in case I have to pull them out. But, if I pull them out that will mess up the baking process. (It will save me from having to clean up a really big mess though.) But, then I will have to start all over again.

6:18pm

The oven timer just went off and just in the nick of time. I think 2 of the cake pans are about to over-flow!

6:19pm

I stuck of fork in them, and they aren't done. Ugh. Please don't overflow! (In the meantime, I need to look up the number to "Merry Maids." Just in case this gets messy.)

6:24pm

Hope is begging to go outside. Ugh. Uh-oh...the oven timer just went off.

6:25pm

Cakes are still not done, but I did find the number to "Merry Maids." (They won't be so "merry" if they have to clean this up...)

6:32pm

Louie and Prada just peaked their head around the door. They saw I was still cooking and turned around and headed back to their bed.

6:35pm

One cake pan is ready!

6:39pm

Hope just reminded me that she is still outside and wants back in right now!

6:41pm

All of the cake pans are finished! Oh Lord...Now all I have to do is decorate.

6:43pm

The store didn't have blue icing. So, I bought white and I now have to try to get it blue. I'm putting all of the icing (I hope I have enough) into a big bowl so the blue will be the same blue on each cake level. (PS, I didn't think of this. It was written on the icing container. Very smart!)

6:47pm

Taking some Advil. If this cake turns out right...Tara will have to just keep this one for the birthday party. I don't know if I can do this again.

6:56pm

I think I have the icing the color I would like it to be. The cakes still need to cool off more. Can I put them in the fridge? Nah, I'm not gonna try that.

8:33pm

Cakes have cooled off. About to start the icing process. Feeling overwhelmed again...

8:57pm

Just finished icing the bottom and middle layer. It's not looking like I had expected, but I'm not finished. Working on the cake topper right now.

9:24pm

I give up. The icing didn't do right, or either I didn't know how to do it. I did a pretty good topper though! But, then I started doing the decorating along the sides of the first and second layer. I thought I had bought frosting tubes, but it was gel that you mix with icing to change the color of the icing. Tara will just have to hire someone. On a very positive note, the hardest part (the topper) looks pretty good even though it's not finished. Below is a picture of what the cake is suppose to look like. There's also a picture of my cake. You Live, You Learn.

Foto Friday

2009-06-12T05:59:00.005-05:00

Spider

2009-06-09T17:59:00.004-05:00

This morning I went for a very brief jog. Maybe I shouldn't have... I was on the phone (so at this point I was walking) when it came out of no where! I heard someone coming up behind me so I moved over to the edge of the sidewalk so he could pass. All of a sudden a spider the size of a kitten jumped up out of the grass and onto my ankle. I immediately held my breath and prayed to God. I didn't want the person on the phone to think I was crazy (because I wanted to scream like a little girl), or the guy coming up behind me to think I was crazy (because I wanted to scream like a little girl AND jump around kicking and shaking). I immediately stopped and moved my left leg towards my right leg (the one with the spider on it) to try to scare him...well it worked. (But not like I wanted it too...) He ran UP my leg to my knee! (I am shivering just thinking about it.) I did a little jig and the kitty-sized spider finally jumped off. I'm beginning to re-think this jogging thing. You Live, You Learn.

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-06-09T15:35:00.004-05:00

(This month Tune-riffic Tuesday is focusing on PINK.)

Today's "Tune" is.... "It's All Your Fault" by Pink

"It's All Your Fault" deals with falling in love and breaking up. After the break up, Pink is blaming all of the hurt, pain, and feelings that she has on her ex because "it's all his fault." It's an upbeat song with a rock twist and a slight techno feel. It's full of emotion and the raspy voice that I LOVE!

As a little side note...you may recognize the instrumental segment at the beginning. It is a slightly twisted version of the opening instrumental segment of "Who Knew" by Pink.

"Its all your fault

You called me beautiful

You turned me out

And now I can't turn back

I hold my breath

Because you were perfect

But I'm running out of air

And it's not fair"

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn

Click on the first "It's All Your Fault" and "Who Knew" to hear the songs.

Frog

2009-06-08T21:20:00.003-05:00

While jogging today, I came up on a huge frog. I immediately froze. Not because I was scared (well, slightly), but because I didn't want to scare him away. I got a little closer and he still didn't jump. So, I got a little closer. I then bent down to get a closer look. That is when I realized that he wasn't a frog...nope, not a frog at all...not even close. What I thought was a huge frog (and why I thought this, I don't know) was a big pile of dog mess! I burst out laughing at the ridiculousness of it all. LOVE it. Wouldn't change it.

You Live, You Learn

Save Our Chairs

2009-06-08T20:49:00.006-05:00

Save Our Chairs campaign

End of week 1

Last week I decided to focus on physical activity instead of nutrition to help me towards the goal of losing 2 pounds per week. I decided to pick back up jogging. I have been dabbling in it again for a little while now, but decided to commit to it like I used to. To try to progress back up to a true jog, my game plan this week has been to walk for 1 song and jog for 1 song. I figured this way at least I would know that there was an end in sight by knowing when the song was getting ready to end! (You really realize just how long a song is...)

This game plan has worked out pretty good. I even would jog for 2 or 3 songs in a row. I have been feeling very good about my new schedule and have been looking forward to my walk/jog. After stepping on the scale today and seeing that I was only 1 pound lighter...that was a little disappointment. However, I know that it's faster to gain than to lose (only when dealing with weight...), so I wasn't too disappointed. And, a pound lost is a pound lost. Also, my legs have gotten a little tighter to. So, I suppose it all works out.

Walking/jogging makes me feel good, and I look forward to it. To me, it's not a total lost. I also know that maybe if I continue, more weight with fall off, and if I would change nutrition it would come off a little faster too. I don't eat horrible, but it could be better. I think I'm still going to focus on physical activity this week and see what happens with that.

Leave a comment and let me know how you have done this first week! Remember, it's only the first week!

Being fit isn't just about physical activity or nutrition, it's about a lifestyle. A healthier lifestyle.

You Live, You Learn.

Foto Friday

2009-06-05T13:50:00.004-05:00

Today's Foto Friday comes from a pregnancy photo shoot that I did about three months ago. It is one of my favorite from that session.

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn.

Bloggy Award...

2009-06-03T18:44:00.005-05:00

Guess what?!?! I got awarded the Bloggy Award! I feel so honored to have received this award. (Below is the review that my blog received.) I would like to thank everyone who takes time out of their day and reads my blog. Lately, it has been a little slow on my blog, but that's definitely about to change. So, get ready for a real good time! Once again, thank you for reading my blog and thanks for the Bloggy Award!

You Live, You Learn

The Water Bowl
The Water Bowl is the blog of Adam and his beloved pets. As you can see from the blog URL, he has three dogs and a fish.

Visual Aesthetics - 10
The Water Bowl uses a two-column template, making the most out of the space. There are interesting and relevant photos scattered throughout the posts, which add to the viewing experience. Certain words are also highlighted, colored, and scattered throughout the posts, giving an added element to the visuals.

User Friendliness - 8
With regard to page load times and navigation according to timeline, The Water Bowl does excellently. I would have loved for Adam to use more links within his posts. For example, when writing about the Georgia Aquarium, he could have linked to the official web site for more information.

Reading Enjoyment - 10
Who will not have a good time reading about dogs and fish? I also like how there are themed days. There are tune-riffic Tuesdays and Foto Fridays. Excellent way to put focus in the blog.

Useful Info - 7
A couple of fronts from which you can find useful info in The Water Bowl: music and possible destinations. There is not much practical info but the enjoyment makes up for it.

Overall Experience - 8
The Water Bowl makes for wonderful light reading. Adam’s personality shines through, and I think you’ll like what you will find.

I need your thoughts...

2009-06-03T09:08:00.008-05:00

Yesterday, after a media event and meetings, a co-worker and I stopped real quick into Petland to look at some dogs. (She is thinking about getting a dog for her daughters.) There was a French Bulldog there that I just HAD to play with.

I have been thinking that if anything happened to Hope, would I get another dog or not? I had decided that if I did get another dog it would be a French Bulldog. I have been specifically looking for an all white (maybe 1 black spot) female. I had read that a female Frenchie may be more likely to cooperate with your exciting pets than a male Frenchie.

The French Bulldog was perfect...all white, no black spots, energetic...but she was a he. So, I was a little disappointed, but still I wanted to play with him. Boy is he FULL of energy!!!!!! (Lots and lots of energy.) He is definitely in a chewing phase because he wanted to gnaw my hands, fingers, wrists, shirt, ears, glasses, cell phone, tennis shoes, pants leg...everything. I think he has so much energy because he is cooped up all day and only gets out when someone wants to pet him. Hopefully, his energy will calm down a little bit once he can run around more freely. Or, Louie and Prada will be chewing toys!!!

Needless to say, the energetic French Bulldog is still at Petland. I had a wonderful visit with him though. I don't know exactly what I should do about him. There aren't really any French Bulldog breeders close by, so it was looking like I was going to have to do some major research because it looked like I was going to have to buy one online. I really want to be able to interact with a dog before purchasing, so the Petland Frenchie meeting was great! He is definitely full of energy and not a sick puppy!

When I got home Louie went berserk! He obviously smelled the Frenchie on me. He wanted me to hold him all night long...while he sniffed me... ugh. I know that there will be an adjustment period (if I get a new dog), but I hope that Louie and Prada are willing to cooperate. Prada was wanting to sniff me the whole night too.

Do you have any thoughts?

You Live, You Learn

He has half of a treat bone in his mouth and the other half is by his feet. So funny. LOVE his expression.

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-06-02T15:40:00.004-05:00

This month Tune-riffic Tuesday is going to showcase.... PINK! Her latest CD "Funhouse" is a wonderful CD. It talks about her divorce and love lost. Each song has so much emotion and rawness to it. All of the songs are very personal to her and that makes the CD seem so much more real. It is one of my all time favorite CDs.

Today's Pink song highlight is "I Don't Believe You." (Click "I Don't Believe You" to hear it)

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn

Save the Chairs

2009-06-01T17:38:00.004-05:00

Don't forget the SAVE THE CHAIRS campaign starts today! If you want to participate, just leave a comment with your starting weight, height, and how much weight you hope to lose this month! If you want to remain anonymous, you need to click on the "comment as anonymous" button before you post your comment. After the temperature drops a couple of degrees, I'm gonna head to the park for a walk/jog.

You Live, You Learn

Foto Friday

2009-05-29T09:13:00.005-05:00

This is a picture of the diesel that was engulfed in flames near my subdivision. Sorry the quality of the photo isn't the best. I took it with my phone. I almost went home and got my camera and took more pictures, but I didn't know I would have seen things I didn't want too...

Save our chairs

2009-05-28T17:33:00.008-05:00

Folks...it's time to save our chairs. We save the whales, we save the earth...it's time to save the chairs too. Chairs are under a lot of strain. Many have even died after too much weight has been added on top of them. It's time to stop this cruel and unusual punishment. Give chairs the right to live. SAVE OUR CHAIRS!!!

I'm starting this campaign because I hear the silent cries coming from chairs when I sit down. It's time to drop a few pounds and let our chairs live "happily ever after."

Don't be selfish. Chairs need love too. Wooden chairs, metal chairs, fabric and leather upholstered chairs...don't discriminate. Don't hate. Participate...in the "Save Our Chairs" campaign.

Detailed information:

The first "Save Our Chairs" campaign starts June 1 and ends June 30. (2009)
The goal of "Save Our Chairs" is to lose 10 pounds during the campaign. (2 pound per week)
To sign up, simply leave a comment stating your weight, height, and your weight loss goal for the campaign.
If you would like to participate anonymously: type your comment then click "comment anonymously" then click on "post comment."
Each Monday there will be a blog post about the "Save our Chairs" campaign where you can leave a comment letting everyone know your progress.

PS...Let me know what you think about my poster too.

When I grow up...

2009-05-27T08:29:00.003-05:00

If Hope, Prada, and Louie were humans what would they be doing career-wise?

Hope. She would be retired by now. She would have had a wonderful life as a nurse or perhaps a doctor. She is always right beside you every step of the way. She wants to make sure you're doing okay and if at any time you need her all you have to do is just ask. OR perhaps she would be a teacher. Louie is in this stage where everything is his if he wants it to be and no one can see it, touch it, smell it, or look in the general direction of it without him causing a scene. Hope waits until he walks away and then sneaks over there and grabs whatever and goes and hides it. She's trying to teach him a lesson (or maybe she would be a robber...)

Prada. She would be a chef. She is always in the kitchen sniffing on the floor looking for any stray crumbs that might have fallen. She will eagerly eat them and let you know if she likes it or not. And, every time you are in the kitchen opening up the fridge or cabinets, she comes running in hoping to have a taste of whatever it is you're getting out. OR perhaps she would be a bodyguard. Whenever Louie barks at me (not in an angry way), she will come running out of no where and slam into him. She then will grab one of his hind legs in her mouth and pull causing him to fall down. She will then sometimes try to pin him down by jumping on him. (Would that have made her the bully in school...)

Louie. He would be some sort of supervisor. If you are outside watering the flowers/yard, there he is supervising to make sure you are doing it right. Every now and then he will give a bark or yelp. (I suppose he is giving out orders.) If you are doing laundry, he is right there watching your every move and again, he will give a bark or a yelp. If you reading a book on the couch or bed or where ever, he wants up there with you so he can look over your shoulder at the book. (He LOVES doing this with a magazine, and I don't know why.) OR perhaps he would be the nosey neighbor that stops you to tell you how you should be doing everything. (Perhaps he's like an in-law hahaha)

You Live, You Learn

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-05-26T08:36:00.004-05:00

(This month I am featuring Kelly Clarkson on Tune-rrific Tuesdays)

Click on "Whyyawannabringmedown" to hear it.

Today's featured song is... "Whyyawannabringmedown." It is very much a punk type song with a lot of energy. I LOVE it. If you are a Kelly follower, then you know this is a "Kelly" fun song. Enjoy! You Live, You Learn.

For the month of June, Tune-riffic Tuesdays will focus on..... (Come back June 2 for find out!)

Georgia Aquarium

2009-05-22T08:42:00.007-05:00

Last weekend, I drove over to Atlanta to visit the Georgia Aquarium. Although, I live pretty close this was my first visit. It wasn't exactly as big as I had imagined it. Everyone that has been to it says how huge it is. So, I suppose with child-like imagination, I had blown the hugeness factor way out of proportion and was slightly let down by how big it really was.

I woke up that morning in a horrible mood. I don't really know why. So, I was slightly irritated all day long. (Slightly irritated is an understate...but I cannot confirm nor deny.) When I got there, they were doing construction and people weren't helpful as to where I was suppose to park. (I had already paid for parking, but couldn't find that parking deck. So, I had to pay for parking again...) There was a long line, but it moved really quickly. Once you give them your ticket, you continue moving through the line to the entrance. Right before you get to the entrance, the line gets backed up because they are taking pictures of everyone that enters. (You can purchase these later.) Well, I wasn't in the mood for a picture, and I knew I wouldn't buy it so I tried to move on through. The lady stopped me and said in an overly bright cheery voice, "Hey sir and welcome!!! You will have to wait a second. It's not your turn for your picture." And then gave me a huge smile. I replied, "I brought my own camera. I don't need your picture. I'm not here for a picture of myself. I didn't drive this far for a picture of myself especially in front of a blue velvet background." And with that, I was allowed to quickly enter the building. (See...I told ya I was not in a good mood...)

Once inside, I start exploring. After looking at a few fish (by pushing my way through the massive group of people...do not go on a Saturday...), I wished I had brought along Dr. Feel. It would have been a wonderful voyage for him. A glimpse of his cousins (maybe) and all that water. I got real sad that I hadn't brought him until I say the huge whales. That would have made him really scared! (I suppose he wouldn't know the difference if I just filled up the bathtub and threw in some plastic fish.) Plus, security probably wouldn't have let him in.

After exploring, I walked back outside. Right beside the Georgia Aquarium is the "World of Coke." It's a Coca-Cola bottling facility that gives tours. They were standing outside giving away a free coke. So, I went and claimed mine. It tasted so good, and it was ice cold. I didn't get to enjoy my Coke for long because the clouds started floating in warning of rain. So, I went back to the parking deck to head over to Lenox Square Mall. I made it to the parking deck just in time before the rain started.

The mall was mostly a disappointment. I mainly wanted to go to that mall because they have a Puma store there, and I am in need of some new tennis shoes. I walked in the store, and the whole place is full of clothes. There are only 10 shoes out for display. What?!?! Serious?!?! This is a Puma store. Hello! People want shoes too. An associate said, "Can I help you?" I replied, "Well, obviously not because you only have 10 pair of shoes. Macy's, downstairs, has more shoes than you!" (See...I wasn't in a happy mood...)

Although I was in a horrible mood, I did have a wonderful time. Even if no one could tell. hahaha. Below are some pictures! Enjoy. You Live, You Learn.

Foto Friday

2009-05-22T08:28:00.005-05:00

Here's a sneak peak at a photo from my Georgia Aquarium visit. Enjoy!

The haircut...

2009-05-20T11:36:00.005-05:00

Since it's getting hotter and since Prada and Louie are long-haired chihuahuas, I decided it was time for them to get a haircut. Once they saw me getting all my equipment...they ran and hid. So, since Hope was left standing beside me, I decided to give her a little trim too. She did a great job! I don't think she was extremely happy about situation but she tolerated it very well.

After Hope, I went searching for Prada and Louie. At first, I couldn't find them. I started to get worried. But then... I saw that my pile of dirty clothes was moving. Sure enough, there they were. I decided to pick up Prada first. She didn't do to well. To put it nicely...half of her body got a haircut and the other half is still her wild and crazy hair. She looks like two different dogs. It's quite funny and sad at the same time. I went to take a picture, but she went running away. She doesn't like her picture being taken, and I'm sure she knew she looked like a wreck. I wasn't able to get a good enough picture :( and I didn't want her to be mad or scared anymore. So, I didn't pursue it any farther.

After the Prada incident, Louie was terrified. So, he didn't get a haircut. But, I must say he doesn't have quite as much or quite as long, hair as Prada. He was relieved. I think this made Prada even more mad because he didn't have to go through the torture.

After playing with Prada more (and tell her she looked crazy), I was finally able to finish her haircut. And, thankfully, she is no longer mad at me!

Tune-rrific Tuesday!!

2009-05-19T06:32:00.006-05:00

(This month I am featuring Kelly Clarkson on Tune-rrific Tuesdays)

Click on "If I Can't Have You" to hear it.

Today's featured song is... "If I Can't Have You." This song is pop, punky, and with a medium-fast beat. As the title suggests, she is talking about a relationship. That person is the only person she wants to be with for the rest of her life. Near the end of the song, Kelly's voice gets altered, but it's only very slightly. Enjoy! You Live, You Learn

(Also, I will be doing an update on my weekend trip to the Georgia Aquarium. I'm having trouble with the pictures I would like to post. So...stay tuned!)

Foto Friday

2009-05-15T08:07:00.005-05:00

A bee on one of my flowers

It looks like the bee has an EYE on his back. It's pretty cool.

Enjoy!

You Live, You Learn

My Hardee's Commercial

2009-05-12T18:54:00.003-05:00

Below is the link to my Hardee's commercial that I made. I think it is so fun!

http://www.hardees.com/adgen/f22d6961d0a6fdbc

Tune-rrific Tuesday

2009-05-12T09:10:00.003-05:00

(This month I am featuring Kelly Clarkson on Tune-rrific Tuesdays)

Click on the first CRY to hear the song. Click on the first SOBER to hear the song.

Today, I'm highlighting "Cry" by Kelly Clarkson off of her "All I Ever Wanted" Album. This song has the flavor of her song "Sober" (which I LOVE) off of her "My Last December" Album. It is a classic Kelly song showcasing her amazing vocals. "Cry" is about going through a break up and all the hardships that brings. Below you will find the lyrics...hope I didn't type them wrong.

Also, if by some miracle Kelly Clarkson checks out my blog... You always impress me not only with your vocals but also your lyrics. Oh..and Kelly...my job ends in September of this year, and I will be in the need of a job...I would make a great publicist! or whatever. I suppose I can't be picky if I'm in need of a job, ya know.

Lyrics for "Cry" by Kelly Clarkson

If anyon asks,

I'll tell them we both just moved on

When people all stare

I'll pretend that I don't hear them talk

Whenever I see you,

I'll swallow my pride

and bite my tongue

Pretend I'm okay with it all

Act like there's nothing wrong

Is it over yet?

Can I open my eyes?

Is this as hard as it gets?

Is this what it feels like to really cry?

Cry

If anyone asks,

I'll tell them we just grew apart

Yeah what do I care

If they believe me or not?

Whenever I feel

Your memory is breaking my heart

I'll pretend I'm okay with it all

Act like there's nothing wrong

Is it over yet?

Can I open my eyes?

Is this as hard as it gets?

Is this what it feels like to really cry?

Cry

I'm talking in circles

I'm lying, they know it

Why won't this just all go away?

Is it over yet?

Can I open my eyes?

Is this as hard as it gets?

Is this what it feels like to really cry?

Cry

Louie's New Obsession

2009-05-12T08:36:00.007-05:00

Louie has a new obsession...belly breathing. (Mine, not his...) This is how his new obsession works: he yips to get my attention, he yips again, I pick him up, he yips again, I walk towards the couch and sit down, he yips again, I lay down (or is it lie down...?), he then crawls on top of my belly, flips over on his back, and just lays (or is it lies?) there on his back...on my belly...him moving up when I breath in...him moving down when I breath out. He gets a kick out of this. Me? I get a headache. First, I get restless because he doesn't want me to move at all to mess up his fun moment. Second, he doesn't want me to even hold the remote and change the channel on the tv because this means my attention is not fully directed towards him. Third, I get a headache for laying (or is it lying?) on the couch because the couch is made of down-feathers, and I am allergic to down... (At the time of the purchasing of the couch, I didn't know about this allergy.) So, I can't be on the couch for long periods of time. I can normally handle an hour...sometimes two hours on the couch. (I know what you are thinking...Why does he still have that couch if he is allergic to it? Well, I don't really know what other kind of couch I want. Also, the only time I sit on the couch is right before I go to bed to watch my shows.)

Just because I can handle an hour or two hours on the couch doesn't mean I want to be on the couch with Louie on my belly. Then, Prada will come in the living room and want up on the couch. This makes Louie bark at her because he is still having fun and she is in the process of messing that up. Of course, I pick Prada up and put her on the couch because I don't want to damage her psychologically and to also show Louie that it's not all about him. After I pick Prada up, she immediately wants to jump up on my shoulder to give me a kiss thanking me for picking her up. This show of affection, makes Louie jealous. So, he will jump up on my other shoulder and give me a kiss. This leads Prada to thinking it's a game...so she will lick me again. (Just for everyone to know...I hate being licked.) Louie, as a last resort, will walk on the back of the couch to my other shoulder and push Prada off. He will then walk across my shoulders/collarbone so that his back legs are on one shoulder, his front legs are on my other shoulder, and his body is all up in my face making it hard for me to breathe. Ugh, oh the joys. You Live, You Learn.

Plant Killer...

2009-05-11T08:42:00.008-05:00

I think my plants hate me. Remember, I planted some strawberries, lettuce, and some tomatoes? Well... The tomatoes are still just a green stalk. No sign of a tomato. It hasn't made a difference if they were potted in a planter or in the topsy turvy container. Which I suppose is fine since I don't really like tomatoes, but I was looking forward to some really good salsa. The strawberries aren't making strawberries. A couple of strawberries started popping out, but I don't know where they are anymore. I don't know if they died, or if Prada or Louie ate them. My lettuce, ugh my lettuce. The high hopes I had for them. Well, the package said to thin them out when a few leaves started sprouting. Well, for the longest there were only two leaves on each "stalk"...that's not a "few." So, I waited a little longer. Well, now I have waited way to long. They are about six or eight inches tall, but they are all intertwined. And, baby lettuce is so soft that when I go to try to un-intertwine them, they resist. They are so soft they act sticky or something. So, instead of separating them out what really happens is that they break off in your hands. Well, two weeks ago I had the bright idea to just cut the intertwined baby lettuce and make a salad. My intentions were that this would allow the lettuce to grow back and then I could immediately thin it out. Well, the lettuce has refused to resurface.

I'm so glad I wasn't relying on these plants to be my only food source. Man, would I be starved by now. It's just so much easier to just go to the market and buy them. At least then I will get to immediately eat them. I've still have had to buy strawberries and lettuce because mine just aren't/weren't producing. I know a garden is suppose to take some time to grow, but that is why I bought tomatoes and strawberries already grown. Only my lettuce was from seeds. I just don't know. I don't know if I am sad because my plants didn't produce or if it's because I spent time on trying to make them produce and apparently that was time wasted. On a bright-side...I suppose I can use those containers for flowers now... You Live, You Learn.

Foto Friday

2009-05-08T08:53:00.003-05:00

Some people want a white picket fence...others want pink flamingos

You Live, You Learn

Flooding

2009-05-07T18:23:00.002-05:00

All this week it has rained off and on. Today...whoa! I am extremely lucky because my neighborhood didn't have any damage, but all around my neighborhood did. Here are some pictures of the flooding throughout the city. These pictures were uploaded from citizens and sent in to the local television station. (I do not own the rights to these pictures, nor am I taking credit for them.) This is a lot of water...

Tune-riffic Tuesday

2009-05-05T16:13:00.003-05:00

Check out Kelly Clarkson's "Save You"

I LOVE the second verse because the drums seem to be beating to a different beat. The first time you hear it you will probably think that the music is ahead of the words...but listen to it about 3 times and you will realize that it is right on track. LOVE it! So different, but oh so good.

You Live, You Learn

Kreativ Blogger Award

2009-05-02T19:10:00.002-05:00

I would like to thank Christine for awarding me the Kreativ Blogger Award. You have no idea how much I appreciate your kind gesture. I would also like to take this time and re-thank you for making The Water Bowl one of your "Featured Blogger of the Week." You are very kind.

To all my loyal readers and to all the random drop-ins...thank you so much for taking time out to visit with me.

In response to this award, I am supposed to tell you about seven of my favorite things:

(1) Books, especially paper backs because they bend.

(2) Sunshine, it makes me feel good.

(3) Mexican food, because it's soooo good.

(4) Diet Dr. Pepper, because it tastes great.

(5) Photographs, because they are moments...forever.

(6) My friends, because they offer love, guidance, and fun-ness.

(7) And of course, my dogs and fish, because they keep me going

You Live, You Learn

Foto Friday

2009-05-02T17:14:00.004-05:00

I've lost my mind...I forgot to post FOTO FRIDAY....

Here's Foto Friday...on a Saturday

Kayaking with Alligators...

2009-04-26T17:08:00.035-05:00

I decided to take most of this past week off to head down to the beach. (Of course, the dogs got excited when they saw me grab the travel crate...well, except for Hope.) While out on one of my early morning walks/jogs, I walked past a shop that sells diving equipment and does diving tours. I had always known it was there but never really paid the shop any attention. This time I did. I noticed they also had some kayaks outside by a canal that opened up into the lagoons. This got me excited! Lately, I have been feeling daring, or more spontaneous, or perhaps more adventurous. I don't really know what I have been feeling. (It must be the multivitamin that I have started to take...). When I got back to the condo, I looked up their number and told them that I would be there in 1.5 hours!

I get there, but had to wait because there were customers in the store and the other store associate had gone to the post office. Finally, after an excruciating 5 or 10 minutes, I was outside picking out the kayak that I wanted to ride in. Now mind you, I have never, ever, ever kayaked before. Nor have I ever, ever, ever paddled a boat before. Nor have I ever, ever, ever wanted to be in water where my feet couldn't touch the bottom. (More specifically...I'm 6 feet tall, so I would prefer the water to not be higher than 4 feet tall...5 feet would be pushing it...). Nor have I ever, ever, ever wanted to be in water where I couldn't see straight down to the bottom so I could make sure nothing was going to bite me or that I was going to step on something.

I ask the guy, "Is there anything special I need to know about this?" To which he replied, "Nope, not really." (That was it?!?! He wasn't going to tell me the do's and don'ts? Or, if you do this you will die?!?! None of that?) I then asked, "Ummm...what if I fall out?" He said, "You better hope like Hell you can get back in the kayak before a gator gets you." (My sunburnt skin turned pale white.) He continued, "If you fall in and make a big splash, a gator is gonna wanna investigate. Especially if it's a momma gator." My next question was, "And just how deep is the water?" He replied, "It's mostly less than 3 or 4 feet deep; however, there are holes out there that are 6 feet deep." I turned away from him and had a conversation in my head... "Well, the good news is that I can handle the water depth. However, the bad news is the water depth is too shallow. If I do fall out, yes, I can just stand up and get back in the kayak easily. However, this means that the gators are NOT far, far, far down in the water. Nope. They are right there under my kayak. They can bite the kayak bottom, and I will fall out. Or, they can easily grab my paddle, yank, and there I will be staring eye to eye with a gator. Oh my my my. It's all good. If the water is shallow then I should be able to see an alligator well in advance and try to get away from him. That's a good question..." I turn back to the guy and ask, "What do I do if I see an alligator?" He dryly said, "You will find out who is faster...a guy in a kayak or an alligator." I nervously laughed. He continued, "Honestly, if you see one, get away from him but don't do it in a hysterical way which will make the alligator want to investigate you...or maybe it would scare him away...your call."

And with that, I was off. No cellphone (I didn't want it to get water damaged because I knew I would fall out of the kayak since I have never done it before), no GPS unit to find my way around the lagoon or better yet to find my way back, no flare gun to catch people's attention if I needed help...nothing. I start paddling and sure enough, the water wasn't deep. I kept looking at the murky water and wondering if there was a gator close by. I also kept sticking my paddle in the water to see how deep it was. I didn't see any alligators on my trip, but I did see where they liked to travel in the marsh land. (You can see the tall grass laid over from where they keep walking over it.) Surprisingly, I didn't even see a snake. Thank God! I just knew a snake was going to get inside the kayak because there were 4 good sized holes in the bottom to allow for water drainage.

A snake never popped his head up into of the kayak's holes, nor did I ever see an alligator, nor did I ever fall out of the kayak. I did get to see a lot of murky water and a lot of birds. I had a ton of fun. I think I will be back to rent another kayak the next time I'm down there...as long as I keep taking that multivitamin. You Live, You Learn.

Foto Friday

2009-04-24T17:45:00.005-05:00

Louie

Hope

Prada

Dr. Feel

2009-04-22T08:27:00.005-05:00

This morning Dr. Feel got his fishbowl cleaned out. He is now happy again!

You Live, You Learn

Random Memory...

2009-04-20T14:22:00.013-05:00

I had to go to the Post Office yesterday and when I pulled up I had a "Random Flashback Blonde Moment Memory".......................

I was rushing trying to get into the Post Office because I had a lot of bills and "thinking of you" cards to mail off. I finally made it through the extremely long and boring line. Through the "Do you need a book of stamps to go along with that?" And the, "Anything hazard, liquid, or dangerous?" I had survived all of that and was at the front of the line. After purchasing my stamps, I walked to the other side of the Post Office were a table stood so I could lick my stamps in peace. After all my bills and cards were dressed for the road trip, I gathered them all up and walked over to the slits in the wall where you drop your mail in and hope there is a basket there to catch it on the other side. That is when I noticed something was different and became confused.

The slits on the wall used to read: "In town" "Out of Town" "Large envelopes" "Packages." However, now they just read: "Letters" or "Packages." This is when my Blonde Moment kicked in. I wasn't confused by the fact that now all you had to do was stuff your letters in the slits and the Post Office workers would sort out the mail for you into "in town" and "out of town" piles. No, that did not confuse me. (I had always wondered what would happen if you put an "out of town" letter in the "in town" slit...) What confused me was the fact that I didn't have any "letters" or "packages" to mail off...I had "bills" and "thinking of you cards." Where did they go? Where were the slits for those? Don't they know that people mail off other things besides "letters" and "packages?"

I continued to stand there wondering where to put my mail. I searched through my mail again to make sure I didn't have anything that was considered a "letter" or "package." I thought to myself, "Perhaps a 'thinking of you card' could be considered a 'letter'...but it's a 'card'...not a 'letter'." I started getting extremely nervous because I wanted/needed my mail to get to their destinations on time. I didn't know what to do. If I put my mail in the wrong place it might not get there. And, I didn't want the Post Office workers to think that I was an idiot by putting my mail in the wrong slit. (They would know who did it by looking at the return address.) So, instead of looking like an idiot, I decided to ask my question out loud so (1) other people that were in the Post Office wouldn't be confused like me, (2) other people in the Post Office would come over and help me, and (3) the Post Office would realize there was a mistake and correct it.

So, I voiced my question (to no particular person)... "There's not a slit for 'bills' and 'thinking of you cards.' Where do I put them?" Immediately, everyone started looking at me with confused faces. To myself I thought, "They too have 'bills' or something other than 'letters' to mail, and they too are confused." I continued thinking that until a lady starting laughing...really loud. She continued laughing. Others started smiling and smirking too. Finally, my light bulb came on, and I realized I had lost my mind. I quickly stuffed my "letters" into the slits, held my head high, and walked out the door...embarassed. You Live, You Learn.

Dinosaurs...

2009-04-19T15:37:00.016-05:00

Earlier today, Prada and Louie had encounters with dinosaurs! It all started out very innocently by running around in the back yard chasing each other. They were enjoying the sunshine and lite breeze. When they got tired, they walked over to the fountain and sat beside it so a little mist would fall on them. Louie soon got bored and walked over to the other side of the yard and sat in the shade under the bench. Hope was sitting beside me while I read a magazine. I looked up and happened to see a lizard on the tree beside Prada. It is always in that tree and scares me every time I walk past to get to the water hose. I don't think he is being aggressive towards me... I think he is just curious of me. (And possibly hyper because he is always on the move.)

He was on the move again today trying to climb to the edge of a branch when he fell to the ground...right beside Prada. She stared at T-Rex (aka the lizard). He stared back. He moved to the left. She moved to the left. He moved to the right. She ran! ... toward me. She looked back, stuck her nose in the air, and stiffed towards her attacker. She s-l-o-w-l-y walked back to the scene of the attack. T-Rex was still there...she moves a little closer. This scared him, so he jumped up on the tree. She began barking which sent T-Rex up the tree to blend in with the leaves. Although she had won the fight, she immediately came running back to me for me to pick her up.

After things settled down, I happened to see something out of the corner of my eye...2 pigeons sitting on the fence. They flew over to the bird feeder, but realized that it was empty. So, they hopped down to the ground to see if other birds had dropped some seeds. After eating the left-over seeds, they began to wobble around looking for more. They start walking over to the bench which Louie was still under. He had fallen asleep and didn't know that pterodactyls (he's so small, so they seem so big) were closing in on him. When they get right up on him, he wakes up...jumps...barks...and high-tails it over to me. All of this movement sent the birds flying back to the fence. He s-l-o-w-l-y walks to the fence where they are. Looks at them. And then barks. When they didn't move, he started barking louder. Finally, after no movement from the pterodactyls, he considered them a "no threat" but ran to the back door wanting to get inside. According to Louie and Prada, dinosaurs live in the backyard. You Live, You Learn.

Foto Friday...

2009-04-17T13:53:00.004-05:00

Prada & Me

You Live, You Learn

Lemonade...

2009-04-16T18:49:00.008-05:00

Well, I was back in the kitchen again today...cooking. Well, I guess not cooking because I didn't have to get a pot/pan out. I didn't even have to turn on the stove or oven. I guess I didn't really didn't cook anything....I mixed something. haha. (To me, that's a form of cooking...) I have been in the mood for some fresh lemonade the way my mother used to make it when I was growing up. I thought that I could remember how to make it from my memory of watching her. I think I succeeded!!! It isn't totally ready yet, but it's already good.

To make "Three Dogs & a Fish's World Famous Better Than You Ever Had Fresh Lemonade" all you need is:

Pitcher
Water
Lemons (4-7---depends on how big your pitcher is)
Sugar or a sugar substitute

Fill pitcher 3/4 full with water
Add sugar to desired sweetness (I have a BIG pitcher. So, I used 1 1/2 cups of Splenda...we shall see if that is too sweet...)
Cut the ends off of the lemons (put these to the side)
Slice your lemons into whatever thickness you like and add them to your pitcher
Stir lightly
Add more water to fill up the pitcher
Stir lightly again
Refrigerate overnight
Take the ends of the lemons that you cut off in Step 3 and throw them in the garbage disposal, turn on, result...clean garbage disposal

I do remember that you are NOT suppose to squeeze a lemon into the lemonade because this will result in SOUR tasting lemonade. That is also why you "Stir Lightly." (Look at me writing a recipe! haha.)

If you have a recipe for lemonade, let me know! You Live, You Learn.

Hope aka VISA...

2009-04-12T11:38:00.006-05:00

Hope is becoming more and more like VISA..."Everywhere you want to be..." First, she blends into the tile throughout the kitchen, office, laundry room, and bathrooms. Her fur has the same marble texture of creams and tans just like the tile. This leads to tripping over her. Especially, when you are busy in the kitchen (not cooking haha) and need to turn around real quick...trip..."Sorry Hope." A few seconds later...trip..."Sorry Hope." Second, she has gotten more and more quite or perhaps sneaky. She LOVES to sneak up on you now, so when you turn around you don't know she is there AND she blends into the floor. Trip..."Sorry Hope." Third, her eyesight in her left eye is completely gone. So, she can't see you to try to get out of your way nor can she even tell if you are standing beside her if you are on her left side. So, what happens? She sneaks up on you AND she blends into the floor AND she can't see you to try to get out of your way because of her bad left-eye sight. Trip... "Sorry Hope."

I feel horrible for always tripping over her. It's not a new occurrence, like I said she has been blending into the tile for a while now. But, since she is aging more and more, I feel bad for tripping over her. (I felt bad before, but even more now.) I suppose I need to buy a bell and attach it to her collar. The bell may get on my nerves and Prada's and Louie's, but I know it won't get on her's since she won't be able to hear it. Maybe a bell is a good thing. It won't aggravate her because she won't be able to hear it, so she won't even know she is wearing one. But, it will definitely help me out and her! You Live, You Learn.

Foto Friday...

2009-04-10T13:03:00.003-05:00

Louie

You Live, You Learn

New Uses for Everyday Things...(part 2)

2009-04-09T08:21:00.003-05:00

Here is my final list of my favorite things from "101 New Uses for Everyday Things" by Real Simple.

COFFEE FILTERS

Diffuse the flash on a camera. When you're taking a close-up, soften the brightness by placing a coffee filter over the flash.
Prevent soil from draining out of flowerpots. When repotting, place a filter at the bottom, over the drainage hole, then add the soil.
Prevent scuffs and scratches on fine china. Use flattened coffee filters as spacers when you stack your dishes.
Strain wine from a bottle with a broken cork. Place the filter over a pitcher or a carafe and slowly pour the wine into it.

VINEGAR

Pinch-hit for lemon in a savory recipe. Use 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar in place of 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
Clean a dishwasher. Once a month, with the machine empty, run a cup of vinegar through an entire cycle to reduce soap buildup on the inner mechanisms and glassware.
Remove stubborn price tags or stickers. Paint them with several coats of vinegar, let the liquid soak in for 5 minutes, then wipe away the residue.
Kill weeds between cracks in paving stones/sidewalks. Fill a spray bottle with straight vinegar and spray multiple times. (Be careful not to get any of the surrounding grass, as it will kill that too.)

BAKING SODA

Exfoliate skin. Wash your face, then apply a soft paste made of 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water. Massage gently with a circular motion, avoiding the eye area; rinse clean.
Unclog a drain. Pour 1/2 to 1 cup of baking soda down the drain, then slowly pour 1/2 to 1 cup of white vinegar after it. Let sit for 5 minutes (covered, if possible). Follow with a gallon of boiling water.
Scrub pans. Sprinkle soda on crusted casseroles and roasting pans and let sit for 5 minutes. Lightly scrub and rinse.
Settle a stomach during occasional indigestion. Stir 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda into 1/2 cup of water and drink for a safe/effective antacid.

SALT

Prevent frost from accumulating inside car windows. Rub the glass with a solution of 2 teaspoons of salt in 1 gallon of hot water. Wipe dry.
Remove dirt from leafy vegetables, such as spinach. Wash the vegetables in a bath of salt water.
Clean drains. Pour a hot, strong solution (1/2 cup salt for every quart of water) down the drain.
Eliminate sticky residue from an iron. Run the hot iron (no steam) over plain paper sprinkled with salt.

Hope you enjoyed this little series of "New Uses for Everyday Things" from Real Simple. You Live, You Learn.

New Uses for Everyday Things...

2009-04-08T10:43:00.002-05:00

I received an E-mail from Real Simple (LOVE this magazine) containing "101 New Uses for Everyday Things." Here are my favorites in each catagory.

LEMON

Remove tough food stains from plastic and light-colored wooden cutting boards. Slice a lemon in half, squeeze the juice onto the soiled surface, rub, and let sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with water.
Relieve a sore throat. Cut a lemon in half. Skewer 1/2 over a medium flame (stove) and roast until the peel turns golden brown. Let cool slightly, then mix the juice with 1 teaspoon of honey. Swallow the mixture.
Whiten fingernails. Rub a wedge on the surface of your nails.
Brighten laundry whites. And 1/2 cup lemon juice to the wash cyctle of a normal-sized load.

NEWSPAPER

Deodorize food containers. Stuff a balled-up piece of newspaper into a lunch box/thermos, seal it, and let sit overnight.
Ripen tomatoes. Wrap them individually and leave them out at room temperature.
Dry shoes. Place crumpled paper in them overnight.
Keep the refrigerator veggie drawer dry/free of smells. Line the bottom with newspaper.

OLIVE OIL

Shave. Olive oil can provide a closer shave when used in place of shaving cream.
Moisturize cuticles. Apply a small amount of olive oil to the nail beds.
Treat dry skin. Rub a thin layer over the skin after a shower or a waxing.
Dust wooden furniture. Apply a bit of oil to a cloth and wipe.

DRYER SHEETS

Freshen smelly shoes. Insert a dryer sheet into the offending pair and let sit overnight.
Clean pet hair from the floor/furniture. Rub a dryer sheet over the spot where Fluffy left her fur.
Loosen-caked-on food from a pan. Place a fresh sheet in the bottom of a dirty pan, fill with lukewarm tap water, and let sit in the sink overnight. The pan will be easier to clean in the morning.
Tackle suitcase/gym-bag odors. Place a dryer sheet in your suitcase/gym bag so your clean clothes won't take on the odors of the dirty ones.

Tomorrow I will post "New Uses for"... Coffee Filters, Vinegar, Baking Soda, and Salt! You Live, You Learn.

Photos...

2009-04-07T14:46:00.005-05:00

Hope

Prada

Louie

You Live, You Learn

Fruit and Veggies...

2009-04-04T18:43:00.008-05:00

Strawberries: So far, everything seems to be going well. I haven't had any to die on me (yet). I have one nice sized strawberry! (It was already on the plant with I bought them, but it has turned pink/red.) Just a few more and I can make a strawberry margarita. Haha. There are a few baby strawberries growing too. Hopefully, by the end of the month, I will have more (I don't know how long it takes for them to grow...). I am concerned though. Strawberries are going to weigh a lot and that will weigh my plants down too. Right? So, will my strawberries actually act like one of those Topsy Turvy Tomato planters? I guess I will find out soon enough.

Lettuce: I planted some seeds and they have sprouted up! Look at me, I'm becoming a horticulturist. Haha. I have never seen lettuce growing (or strawberries) and they are funny. They kinda look like a mix between weeds, clovers, or funny grass. According to the seed pack, I'm suppose to thin them out, but I'm gonna wait a couple more days before doing that. I do hope I can keep the lettuce alive. I love salads, and I think it will be cool to eat lettuce that I grew! (I also love cheese...should I buy a cow?...nah.)

Tomatoes: I don't eat tomatoes, but I am growing a couple. Go figure. Although, I don't

like tomatoes... I LOVE salsa! (I know, I know, it's the same thing, but it's not.) I don't like

chunky salsa at all. I prefer mine pureed. (Look at me using cooking language.) So, I have

decided to try to make my own salsa. I don't know exactly how this is going to turn out, but

we shall see. If you know of a good recipe for pureed salsa (aka not chunky), send them to

me! I guess I don't need them right now, but maybe in a few weeks I will. I'm also growing my

tomatoes in a Topsy Turvy Container. I think I just like the name Topsy Turvy.

You Live, You Learn

Poodles...

2009-04-01T18:27:00.012-05:00

On Monday, I got home and since it was still daylight outside I decided to go for a walk. I started getting Prada's and Louie's harnesses and leashes out, but for some reason I had second thoughts. I didn't know why, but I felt that maybe they shouldn't accompany on this relaxing walk. So, I put their stuff back in the cabinet. (Prada seemed thrilled of my change of heart. The torture...oh the torture of a walk.) I stuck my earphones in my ears, turned on the music, and headed out the door.

I walked maybe 6 blocks, jamming out to my music, looking at the houses, and wondering why there wasn't anyone else out in the neighborhood...when it happened. (A "small" dosage of what was waiting for me later). All of a sudden, I felt something jump on my leg, grab my shorts, and shake/yank. I screamed like a little girl! I didn't know what had gotten a hold of me. (While I was jamming out and aimlessly looking at houses, a little dog has his/her eye on me.)

Luckily, I had come in contact with him/her before, and just said "Hello." Meanwhile, the dog's owner (a lady in the neighborhood that walks her dog late in the evening with a wine glass FULL of red wine...makes sense to me; wine is suppose to be good for you and so is exercise, so why not combine them) came running up to me saying "Come here. Come here. No. No. No! NO! Get down. Be nice!" She then apologized saying that the little rascal had just gotten away from her. I told her that it was not a problem and it didn't scare me at all. (Yeah right...)

I continued on my relaxing walk which brought me back to my house but decided to keep going. I walked 2 more blocks, jamming out to music, looking down at the sidewalk, and remembering my little incident that had just occurred...when IT happened. For some reason, I looked up and half a block away were 1 small black poodle, 1 small white poodle, and 1 huge black poodle (that had to be mixed with a St. Bernard) running full speed ahead for me.

I immediately thought of Jurassic Park where the characters come in contact with T-Rex and just freeze because T-Rex can only see movement. So, I decided to freeze and not move...hoping that they wouldn't be able to see me. (And, also wishing I had worn camouflage so I could blend in more.) The little black one arrived first and just starting jumping up on my legs. Smiling at me. Barking at me. Then, the little white one arrived and copied the other dog. As the St. Bernard Poodle got closer, the smaller ones decided to get out of his/her way. The big one jumped up on my chest, stuck his tongue out, and tried to lick me. Thankfully, their owner started calling them, which sent them running away from me and back home. I decided I had had enough of this relaxing walk, turned around, headed home, and thought Prada was right...torture...oh, the torture of a walk. You Live, You Learn.

Sonic Car-Hop...

2009-03-30T16:23:00.003-05:00

So, Tara (co-worker) and I decided to sneak away from work to partake in Sonic's Happy Hour. (Although, neither of us bought anything on the Happy Hour menu...) We get there and the parking lot looked pretty full, but we were able to find a parking place. Tara orders our stuff and while we are sitting there a Car-Hop comes out to deliver food to the car beside us. All of a sudden, the Car-Hop just fell on top of Tara's Tahoe! HAHAHAHAHA Love it! She was okay, so that's why I can laugh. It really brightened my day. The ironic thing is ... she didn't have on the rollerblades/skates, she had on regular tennis shoes. (Is it mean that I find this amusing?)

(A)lligator (B)erries (C)ash...

2009-03-25T11:20:00.016-05:00

I was reading one of my favorite blogs last week ("Blog for Not So Angry Redhead"--the link can be found under My Blog List) when I saw that she had planted some strawberries. Well, this got me thinking...why can't I grow my own strawberries? (I really like fresh strawberries and strawberry margaritas!) At least I wouldn't have to worry about pesticides and food recalls. So, I got up early on Saturday and headed out to local stores to find the best ones. (The pups knew that if I was leaving early that I was up to something...) Come to find out, WalMart had the best looking ones. So, I decided to buy 2 different kinds (Quinalt & Fresa), 2 clay strawberry pots, and vegetable soil (Yes, I know that a strawberry is a fruit...). Once I got home, I got overwhelmed. There were so many holes in the pots that I didn't know how to fill them up with my plants without the soil spilling out. I somehow managed not to waste too much soil, and I am very pleased with how they turned out. Now, I just have to worry about Prada and Louie eating them before I do!

After being out in the sun working on my strawberry planters, I decided that this weekend would be a great time to head down to the beach. I decided to make it an extended stay and took Monday and Tuesday off from work. Prada and Louie got SO excited when I started messing with their travel crate. I think they got really excited when they saw me packing my swim trunks because they knew we were heading for the beach! I think Prada was more excited because she knew she wouldn't have to go for long walks at the beach hahaha. Dogs aren't allowed to walk on the beach, so we are just restricted to the parking lot, and I don't want her paws to get scorched. (The white sand could scorch her paws too.) So, she REALLY likes to go to the beach. Prada might not get to go for long walks, but I sure can!

I got up in the mornings and went for 5.5 mile walks. I started out walking through the environmentally, protected wetlands and then walked through the city to get back to my condo. I'm always cautious when walking through the wetlands because of alligators. (Another reason Prada doesn't go for walks down there...) The first day went great. No wild animals except for birds. The second day got a little bit spicier. Of course, I wore my sunglasses which aren't prescription, so starting off things were slightly out of focus. I'm was about 1 mile into the wetlands when I glanced to my left and noticed something green...cash! I start walking closer and yup, it was cash. I couldn't make out how much though because I didn't have my glasses on. Just as I bend over to pick it up I started thinking...what if a gang of alligators got together and set a trap... So, as I bend over to pick it up, I snatch it up really fast and started walking even faster. Not gonna be bit today! (Turned out to only be a dollar, but I was still happy!) I get another mile into the wetlands and notice a huge bird standing in the water. So, I slowed down and got closer. The bird was staring into the water waiting for a fish to snatch up. All of a sudden, I realized that there was a "log" floating in between me and the bird. Then, I realized that this "log" had eyes and was either watching me or the bird. I focused in on the alligator and got just a step closer (to make sure it was indeed an alligator) and all of a sudden he (or she) just dipped below the water out of my sight. I said "Oh, hell no." And, turned my leisurely stroll into a marathon paced run. I rewarded myself with a sausage biscuit from Hardee's! You Live, You Learn.

(P.S. When I go out for my walks / jogs I ALWAYS have my "Road ID" on. It is an athletic bracelet that has: your name, your city, emergency contact information, allergies, etc. It's a great device in case something were to happen to you. In my case, hopefully, the alligator would have chomped down on everything but that arm... Find out more at www.roadid.com)

Tooth Fairy...

2009-03-17T12:18:00.005-05:00

Last night, Hope, Prada, and Louie were sitting with me on the couch watching HGTV. Prada got excited for some reason and wanted to play. So, after multiple attempts (due to her weight...), she finally jumped up onto the back of the couch and ran full force ahead and jumped on my shoulder. She started barking and wagging her tail and lifting her paw up for me to shake her hand. She then smiled at me and I noticed something...she was missing a tooth! (Bottom row...middle tooth) I told her that even though I didn't know where the tooth was, I was sure the Tooth Fairy would have something for her in the morning. (I knew exactly where it was...she had probably swallowed it while gulping down her food. But, I'm just saying. I cannot confirm nor deny.)

So, this morning I gave her a doggie treat. I didn't want to give her food, but considering the fact that all the doggie stores had closed by the time I found out she had lost a tooth...food would have to work. Prada has to go back to the doctor very soon (I have yet to make the appointment...) for a check-up on the progress of her weight loss. I'm afraid she has gained weight instead which is going to make me look like I am a bad parent. The diet pill she is taking works by attaching to "fat particles" which the Vet said I needed to switch her to a high in fat dog food. Well, of course, she's going to have gained weight because she is eating more fat. (She was previously on weight-loss dog food.) And, of course she eats ALL of her food...fat is what makes it taste good!

I try to limit her food to only her's and not Louie's and Hope's. I try to play with her everyday more than I have in the past. She LOVES for me to take off running in the house so she can run behind me trying to catch me. So, what have I been doing??? Running around my house like a lunatic. (I'm sure if the neighbors peek in my windows they think they are living beside a crazy person.) But, she still hasn't lost weight. She looks like she has gained it. Maybe the Vet will recommend a higher dosage of medication or maybe to go back to the weight-loss dog food. Now that warmer weather is here and that there is more sunshine in the afternoon, I can start taking her out on daily walks to help with her weight-loss endeavor. We've got to do something because the swimsuit I bought her last year....doesn't fit...AT ALL. You Live, You Learn.

Shake 'n Pour...

2009-03-15T08:47:00.010-05:00

Lately, I have been craving pancakes, not the frozen kind either. So that means cooking...and we all know how well I cook... Yesterday, I got the easiest pancake mix I could find "Shake 'n Pour" by Bisquick. It looked extremely easy. All I had to do was: add water, shake, and pour. I can do that! So, this morning I get up and get ready for my challenge. I started reading the instructions: (1) FILL container with 2/3 cup cool water [Ok, I can do that - So, I did it] (2) SHAKE container hard for 30 seconds. Tap bottom corners of container to loosen remaining mix; shake again [Again, I can do that - So, I did it] (3) POUR batter onto hot greased skillet forming 4-inch pancakes [Piece of cake - So, I did it]. But, that was were the problem started...that's ALL the directions. What am I supposed to do after that? How do I get them cooked and on my plate so I could pour syrup on top? It didn't tell me when I should flip them, how long should they cook on each side, or if both sides cooked at the same time! I looked at Hope, Prada, and Louie and said, "Where's the rest of the instructions?!?!" They commenced to barking and jumping up and down. (I don't know if they were cheering me on or telling me to stop before I burned anything down.)

Hurriedly, I read the container again. Nope, no step 4. The bottle did say that if I had any comments I should save the bottle and call 1.800.345.2443. I didn't have a comment... I had a question. What's the number to call if you have questions?!?! It also gave me www.bisquick.com. So, I logged on and went to the tip section. Finally, I had an answer. It said, "Flip pancakes only once! Repeated flipping will toughen the pancakes. Pancakes are ready to flip when they're puffed, covered with bubbles and slightly dry around the edges. Cook the other side until it is golden brown." Hello?!?! Why is this not on the container? Luckily, I knew exactly when to flip my first pancake...after I saw the smoke rising up and smelled something burning. I wouldn't have burned it if the container had all the instructions on it. Doesn't Bisquick know that there are people out there that have to eat, but don't know how to cook? Those people (me...) need ALL the instructions. We need to know when to flip a pancake! You Live, You Learn.

(PS...My pancakes were more golden brown but for some reason every picture that I upload to my blog has muted colors. If you know why this happens, or how to fix this, please let me know. Thanks!)

Love Monkey...

2009-03-10T19:41:00.018-05:00

Yesterday was a jammed packed day of fun. I got up at o'dark thirty (an Alabama saying for "the crack of dawn") to get the new Kelly Clarkson CD. I wanted to get it and come back home to workout to the CD before heading to work. Prada and Louie looked at me like "Umm...what are you doing up so early?" (Hope didn't realize I was gone until I got back. Bless her heart.) Obviously, music releases are not a huge event in Alabama because I couldn't find the CD. Well, at one place I found it but they didn't have the Limited Edition that I wanted. (They also didn't feel the need to go and check in the back but whatever...it's all good.) So, I didn't get the CD until almost mid-morning, but hey, that's okay. So, all day yesterday I jammed out to this AWESOME CD. And just so you know... "I'm not your love monkey...So... why-ya why-ya whyyawannabringmedown." (Listen to the CD to understand that lyrical line.)

For lunch, some co-workers took me out to Olive Garden to continue celebrating my birthday. Wahoo! Loved it. (Just so you know, I celebrate my birthday the whole month of March.) Oh, did I love it. I'm not going to name off how many soup and salad bowl refills I had because boy was it a lot. (On a bright side, at least my co-workers got their money's worth for my lunch.) Since I had a short work day yesterday, I decided to do some yard work...

I walked outside and Prada and Louie were running around in the grass and just having a blast in the warm, sunshiny day. I heard my next door neighbors arguing in their yard. I tried to listen but my hearing is horrible. So I dashed inside to grab my Listen Up Personal Sound Modification Device (an "As Seen on TV" thing I found at WalMart) and out the door I went ready to be nosey. Just my luck, once I got back outside their argument was over. Ugh...

Once Prada and Louie saw me getting my yard-working utensils, they immediately ran inside the sunroom with their noses pressed up against the floor to ceiling windows waiting, watching, looking for something to go wrong. (They are so supportive.) I did such a good job pruning the rose bushes that I decided to do a little more. So, I started pruning back my monkey grass. (I should have stopped while I was ahead.) Because the monkey grass had gotten big and bushy and out of control, I kinda had to just dig into it and just prune some of it back blindly. I pruned back more than just monkey grass...I cut the power cord for the fountain and tripped up the power outlets for the backyard. Luckily, I didn't get shocked! I first thought that I had just cut the extension cord for the water fountain, but nope I never do anything easy. I cut the water pump power cord. To my surprise, I was able to purchase a water pump that would work for my fountain at Lowe's and only for $30 dollars. I'm so surprised that I didn't hurt myself.

After the yard work and the trip to Lowe's to fix my yard working mistakes, I turned on WhyYaWannaBringMeDown off of Kelly's CD and just jammed out to it by jumping up and down and singing (off key). Pretty soon Prada and Louie were copying me and jumping up and down and barking like they were having a groovy, good time right along with me. (I hope they weren't barking to try to cover up my horribly off-key vocals.) You Live, You Learn.

Redknees NOT Rednecks...

2009-03-06T16:17:00.006-06:00

Well, I never experienced any ghostly encounters, not even a "Casper the Friendly Ghost" encounter. However, there is something mysteriously wrong with Place D'Armes. My hotel room was on the 4th floor. I went down the first flight of stairs I came too which was dimly light with a 15 watt bulb. Very dark. Very eerie. I went up a flight and it was pitch black with a sign that said "Do Not Enter"...And I did not enter. I got back on the 4th floor and went down the 2nd staircase. I started out on the 4th floor but then was immediately on the 2nd floor.... Where did the 3rd floor go?... (I turned around and ran back to the 4th floor where I felt more confident and knew that it actually existed.) In another flight of stairs, you open the door and it's an immediate drop off with NO warning. Needless to say, I stuck with the elevator which was only big enough for me and my 1 suitcase because I knew exactly where I would end up. (I think the elevator shaft was originally a very small closet.)

The Britney Spears concert "Circus" was amazing. It was a HUGE production with 3 circle stages. My first favorite part of the concert was during the magician act performance. While Britney was performing a magician made her disappear and then re-appear on the opposite side of the stage! Then the magician made Britney get in a tall box where you could still see her face. He then put a huge blade in the box and spilt her into 3 separate boxes with her still performing! It was crazy fun. My next favorite part was where these guys fell from the ceiling wrapped up in sheets (like Cirque Du Soleil). And if that wasn't fun enough, one of the guys grabbed Britney and spun her all over the place! She didn't have a harness or anything. She was totally trusting that guy. (Guess he was more trustworthy than K. Fed.) Loved it!

I'm now down at the beach and the puppies are so freaking excited. They jumped in the travel crate excited that they would get to go on this trip. After spending the last two weeks feeling like I either lived in a freezer or Alaska, it's nice to thaw out at the beach in 70 degree weather. With the weather just gorgeous, I went out on the beach and began reading my new book "Still Alice" by Lisa Genova. I apparently got drawn into the book a little too much. I started feeling my legs get warm but then I got really interested in the book and forgot that my legs were burning. Now, the back of my knees are BRIGHT RED...and hurting. It currently looks crazy. Extremely crazy because they are the only things that are red. Who knew you needed to put sunblock on the back of your knees too... You Live, You Learn.

(Below is a picture of the wig that I bought...love it. Check it out. The funny thing is, I used to have my hair very similar haha).

Fudge, Flowers, & Balloons...

2009-03-02T16:58:00.003-06:00

Today is my 25th birthday. I woke up, got ready, and headed straight to The Fudgery Fudge Shop located at the River Walk Mall in New Orleans to immediately start celebrating my birthday. I LOVE The Fudgery Fudge Shop here. There is a woman named Sunshine that works there. She is always smiling and singing. Watching her make fudge and singing is a must do when I'm in New Orleans. Today, I got a surprise...it was her birthday too!!! So, the crowd sang "Happy Birthday to her"...then to me...then "Happy Anniversary" to a couple who's anniversary is tomorrow. After eating my free samples of fudge, I decided to try my luck at the slots.

Lady Luck didn't show up today. I lost $40 dollars but won $12.17. So, I guess she did make a small appearance but I wanted a grand entrance. Oh well. An interesting side note: I got a margarita at the casino and it was actually the best free casino drink I have had. After the casino, I headed for the French Market. It wasn't the best today. Nothing caught my attention. (Again, I guess Lady Luck made a small appearance to save me some money.) For lunch I had a shrimp po'boy and canjun fries. After I finished my meal, the canjun fries finally caught my mouth on fire. Thank God I had ordered a large drink.

New Orleans is FILLED with fun and/or interesting characters, and I just so happened to run into the "balloon lady." I'm walking to Jackson Square and this crazy looking lady just grabs me and says "Oh what did you win?! Oh what oh what oh what oh what did you win?" (I was wearing my "Happy Birthday" buttons.) I said, "Oh nothing, it's just my birthday." She pulled me in closer and said, "I'll make you a special hat." I said, "Oh, you don't have to do that at all." She said, "I insist." A minute or two later and my "special" hat was finished. And, instead of handing it to me...she jumped up and snuggled it on my head. I said, "Oh...ummm....thanks!" She replied with, "Well I don't make those for free. I accept donations." I asked her if she had change for a dollar, but she acted like she didn't. (I gave her two dollars instead.)

After immediately going to the hotel to drop off my "special" hat, I located a flower shop. I bought some gorgeous orange and yellow roses and headed back to The Fudgery Fudge Shop to spread a little bit of "Sunshine." I arrived a few moments too late. Sunshine had gotten a little sick and went home a few minutes early. I told the other employees that I had bought these for her since it was her birthday and she always makes me smile when I am in town. One employee pulled out her cell phone and called Sunshine letting her know she had a surprise when she arrived at work tomorrow. She handed me the phone, and I told her that I thoroughly enjoy her fudge making shows and just wanted to spread a little sunshine. She almost cried. She arrives back at work bright and early in the morning. I hope she likes the roses. A small gesture of kindness goes a long way. You Live, You Learn.

Swirling Snow Monster...

2009-03-01T06:49:00.007-06:00

Yup, I woke up this morning to finish my packing and this is what I saw... (It's snowing even harder and faster now.)

Now, I'm really worried about my flight because we are suppose to get 1 - 2 inches, but the airport is suppose to get 3 - 6 inches. According to their website, my flight is still scheduled and still on time. I'm sure that will change.

Hope, Prada, and Louie were barking to go outside. (If they only knew what was waiting for them.) I could tell Hope thought that something was different, but she just ran out and peed and ran right back. Louie was actually a little braver and tried catching snowflakes in his mouth. However, the wind started picking up the snow and swirling it around him...he got really scared. He peed and ran inside trying to get away from the swirling snow monster. Prada was not happy about this new "stuff" flying around and on the ground. She stopped and peed about an inch outside the back door and immediately wanted in.

(This is the second time they have ever experienced snow.) Well, I've got to finish packing for my trip...if I get to go today. You Live, You Learn.

70 degrees and snow...

2009-02-28T20:01:00.009-06:00

The weather is so ridiculous. There has still been tornadic activity today with highs in the 70s. When I wake up in the morning it's going to be in the 30s and snowing?!?! What's up with that? Ugh. Whatever. Since Alabamians are not used to snow, I'm sure my flight to New Orleans will be delayed. I'm hoping it won't be cancelled. To let you know just how much we aren't used to snow...I'm leaving for the airport almost 6 hours before the plane takes off. (The airport I'm flying out of is two hours away.)

I'm suppose to fly to New Orleans on Sunday and arrive back on Wednesday, and then hop in the car on Thursday and head to the beach until Sunday. Prada and Louie will be so happy! No more getting in the travel crate just to hide in the bathroom from the tornadoes. I'm going to New Orleans to celebrate my 25th birthday and to attend the kick-off of Britney Spear's Circus concert. I'm not a crazy Britney fan, but I do want to support her since she is getting her life back together. (There's so much negativity in the world...I want to celebrate positivity.)

While in New Orleans, I will be staying at Place D'Armes. It is considered one of the most haunted hotel in New Orleans. (I didn't know about this when I booked it...still nervous.) Guests claim to hear and see children, hear their names called during the night, and see an older man that vanishes when spoken to or when followed. "It is said to have been built on the site where a school house once stood. A major fire destroyed the school and many children and teachers were burned to death in the blaze."

I have decided that I will leave a pen and piece of paper out while I sleep to see if a ghost can write. However, if something is written on the piece of paper, I will have to crawl as fast as I can out of there because my legs will be like Jello. Once outside, I will whistle for a cab and head to the airport. The hotel can either mail me my luggage or throw it away. Whatever is easiest for them. You Live, You Learn.

P.S. I bought multiple "Happy Birthday" "It's my Birthday" "Birthday Boy" buttons today to wear while on the plane and while in New Orleans. Who knows...I may get something for free!!!! hahaha (I will let you know if this works.) Oh, and I also bought a wig...

Ten Degrees...

2009-02-27T17:17:00.016-06:00

Well, Washington DC was extremely cold! I don't do cold. I prefer the temperature to be at 80 or above. However, every day it was 20 - 34 degrees, but throw in the 20 mph winds and I was dealing with 10 - 20 degrees. It was too cold. Although it was cold, a boy's got to eat! I decided to eat at McCormick and Schmidt. (I really like this restaurant.) It was only 4 blocks from the hotel, so I thought that I could brave it. I stepped outside and almost whistled for a cab! After one block, I thought I was literally going to freeze to death. It felt like needles were poking me all over my face. I had a brillant idea though. I took my scarf and wound it ALL around my head and tied it in a knot with slits for my eyes. (The restaurant probably thought they were about to be robbed.) My tilapia was so good. I'm glad I braved it. I knew that going back would be easier because the wind should be at my back...this was not the case. So, I wound the scarf ALL over my head again and trekked back to the hotel.

The hotel that I stayed at was the Gaylord National Harbor Convention Center Hotel. It is located in a brand new city that just received a zip code called National Harbour. It is just across the water from DC and Alexandria, VA. If you mapquest it, you won't find it...yet. If you are looking for a VERY nice hotel with a unique environment, then you should stay there. Google Gaylord National Harbor and check out the pictures on their website. I don't know how to describe it.

Hope, Prada, and Louie were so excited when I got home! (Flew back on Wednesday) They ran all over the place barking and barking and barking. Prada and Louie tried climbing up my legs but kept falling off, so I bent down and picked them up. They had a surprise for me...kisses haha. After my kisses, they wanted down so they could investigate my luggage. After the luggage passed their investigation, they started back barking and running and trying to climb up my legs. Needless to say, I had to just lie down in the floor and let them jump all over me.

Louie is back jumping at my feet today to get up here and see what I am doing. He has got to where he is very curious of my laptop. Prada absolutely LOVES my laptop. She is mesmerized by the bright screen and the key strokes. She gets so excited that I have to let her type every-now-and-then. I don't know what she is trying to type, but she loves hearing the key stokes. Louie, however, isn't that excited. He just likes to sniff it. (He got really close to the webcam today.)

<<Tornado Warning--got to get everyone in their safe place.>>

<<While there is a break in the weather, I am going to try to hurry and finish this blog.>>

The weather is crazy here. (Baseball sized hail in some places.) All day today and tonight there have been tornado warnings. Prada and Louie are so confused. I keep telling them to get in their travel crate, just to take them to the bathroom. Then the tornado warning will pass, and I will let them out. The siren will go off again, and the drill starts all over again. I think Hope is really confused too.

Today and tomorrow there should be severe weather like this all day long with a high in the upper 60s - lower 70s. And then, on Sunday there should be snow with temps in the 20s - 40s?!?! But then be back in the 60s on Monday?!?! (If it's gonna snow in Alabama, it's gonna snow in March. Why? I don't know, but it only really happens in March.) The weather is ALWAYS crazy around my birthday. You never know what to expect. However, I'm going on a birthday trip to New Orleans and fly out on Sunday...hope the weather permits. I'll do another blog about my New Orleans trip tomorrow. Until then, I'll be in the bathroom with Hope, Prada, and Louie waiting out the storms. You Live, You Learn.

The Terrible Twos...

2009-02-21T15:40:00.006-06:00

Okay okay. So, technically Prada and Louie are fresh three year olds, but Prada reverted back to the terrible twos yesterday. I was trying to cook dinner (don’t worry it was a boxed meal--so I was really just warming it up) when I heard someone eating Hope’s food. (Hope’s food is in the laundry room which is near the kitchen.) I knew it wasn’t Hope because she is always faithful in my cooking escapades and was standing right beside me. She likes to live dangerously, I suppose. I tip-toe through the kitchen and find guess who...Prada.
I said, “Prada...” She lifted her face out of the food bowl and looked at me. “No...” I guess she thought I said to eat more because she started eating more and faster. I said, “Prada, No.” She stopped and looked at me. While I had her full attention, I said “Prada...No.” She then threw a temper tantrum!!! She commenced to barking to the top of her lungs, shaking her head back and forth like she was saying no, and when she was finished.....she did it all over again.
I was torn between laughing because she was acting like a two-year old kid or telling her “Oh no you didn’t missy.” I decided to just think these thoughts in my head and to just let her get all of that energy out of her system. After all of that energy didn’t go away after a little bit, I again said “Prada...No.” She stopped her tantrum but gave me that “Go to you-know-where look.”
I told her that she didn’t need to be eating Hope’s food and Louie’s food and her food. Her food was plenty for her. I also told her that Hope’s food is a low-fat dog food and she needed her dog food because she needed fat to help her “medicine” work. (I still haven’t told her it’s a diet pill.) She looked down at the food, then up at me, then down at the food, then up at me, then down at the food, then up at me. I walked over to Hope’s food bowl and saw why she kept looking at me. There were only three more pieces in the dog bowl meaning she had eaten basically all of it. I decided to give up. I had already lost the fight. So I said, “Go ahead and eat the last three pieces.” She eagerly ate them and looked up at me with a smile. You Live, You Learn.

UPDATES:
Today Dr. Feel is getting his water bowl cleaned out. He really doesn’t like this process, but he always likes the clean water. When he has clean water he swims and swims and swims. When his water gets just a little bit dirty, he stops swimming to let me know it’s time to change the water so he can party again.
The Vet called yesterday. I was assuming she was calling to ask how Prada was doing on the diet pills. To my surprise, the phone call was about Hope. She said that some tests had come back and that Hope’s kidney levels were elevated which means her kidneys aren’t performing in tip-top shape. So, I have to start her on a different diet and medication to help her kidneys.
Louie is still being Louie. He thinks that ALL of the bones in the house are his and that no one else can play with them, lick them, or even look at them. Even if Hope looks his way, he starts barking and growling. I mean, come on Louie, she’s a little blind. She doesn’t know what she’s looking at.
I leave on a business trip to Washington, DC tomorrow. So, any updates that I do will probably be really short because I’m just taking my phone and not my computer. Don’t worry though. The three dogs and a fish are in excellent hands!