Disclaimer: I must admit that I cheated a bit and looked up some Q words. Otherwise I would have had only two entries.
Quarter - not just one-fourth, ladies and gentlemen! Apparently a quarter is "a unit of measure equal to 28 pounds." Did not know that. 25 pounds is what I would've guessed if pressed.
Q-Bert - okay, I loved this video game as a kid! I don't know how many quarters (possibly 28 pounds worth - haha!) I went through at Mazzio's and The Tilt on this game. To almost clear the board and then end up hopping off the edge accidentally...nooooo! In middle school I had "Note Books" with my friends (we passed spirals -one spiral per friendship- back and forth to each other in between classes) and Meena wanted us to use code names in case our book was confiscated. Q-Bert was my name. Or possibly hers. But I think probably it was mine.
Quiet Light - when we lived with my grandparents for a bit if I couldn't fall asleep I would find my grandmother who was usually sitting in her wooden rocking chair in the living room. I would sit in her lap and we would rock back and forth looking at the lamp post in her backyard, our "quiet light."
Quinquennium - a period of 5 years. How exactly is this word used? Is it like a 5-year anniversary mark? What are your goals for this quinquennium?
Quire - exactly 24 sheets of paper. Hmmm.
Quitter - not just what you call someone who quits something...quitter also refers to pus. Awesome.
Here's some other random Q words I'll use in a sentence: I hope you never quackle on some qat or a quarender. If you do, I hope a quidam (preferably not a quean or a quidnunc) is there to quagswag you so as to quich the blockage.
Showing posts with label Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life. Show all posts
3.01.2010
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - P
Papa - my grandpa was an amazing man. I always thought he was kind of strict and I can still hear him "talking" to me through the bathroom door whenever I got mad and locked myself inside, "The world does not revolve around Courtney Marie, you know." But underneath his tough exterior was a big softie. When my mom, my sister and I lived with them for a few months he would kneel between our beds, scratch our backs, and hum us lullabies. Ah, sweet memories!
Pepper - love me some pepper! I don't do much salt but you can always count on me and pepper. Especially in my ketchup. Yum! A funny (if not predictable) story about me and pepper...just a few weeks ago I was lunching at McAlister's and was trying to sprinkle some pepper on my chicken caesar wrap when the whole cap came off and a heaping pile of pepper ended up on my plate. I seriously considered shaking what I could off to continue eating it but in the end I was persuaded to get them to replace the meal. And the pepper shaker.Persnickety - I just love this word and its meaning!
Pickles - it's a toss up where pickles and pepper are concerned. I lurve pickles! Dill, mind you. Spears preferably but chips will do in a pinch. Not bread and butter and never, ever sweet! And the combination of Mazzio's ranch dressing and their bitesize pickles in the salad bar cannot be beaten. To. Die. For. Which is a silly thing to say, I realize, about pickles. I love pickles so much that my grandmother has gifted me with pickles on two occassions...for my 13th birthday I received a case of pickles and one Christmas I received a large box of individually wrapped pickles. Like they used to sell (and maybe still do?) at the roller skating rink. And I have wonderful friends who know of my love for pickles and will sacrifice their lunch spears to see me light up when they offer me theirs. Except for now Steph has a kid who also happens to lurve pickles so I am no longer the recipient of her pickle generosity. Cute kids....hrmph!
Pickle-Chiffon Pie - This was a favorite book in our house when I was a child. My mom read it to us a lot. Unfortunately we no longer have it. And unfortunately I don't really remember much of the story. Something about a weird monster competing for the hand of the princess and bakes her father, the king, this crazy pie concoction. I keep my eyes out at thrift stores but I really ought to just suck it up and order it from Amazon. A side note...growing up as latch key kids my sister and I had a secret code word that was to be used if our mom had to, for some reason, send someone else to pick us up. Stranger Danger and all. "Pickle-Chiffon Pie" was our word. And to top it all off, the book was written by a guy named Jolly Roger. Gotta love that!
Pops -Yay for gas stations + soda pop marts + yummy hamburger joints! Head on over to Arcadia, OK and try it out for yourself.
Pugs - I do not what it is about this breed of dog but I am completely smitten. From their snorting and snuffing and smashed in faces to their curly Q tails. My friend Amy got a pug right after college and I thought she (both Amy and Maude the pug) were crazy. But then I volunteered to dog sit for a friend and ended up having both his husky and his pug for a couple of months. Gigi chewed up my shoes and the arms of my sister's futon (thank goodness I hadn't bought a couch of my own yet!) but she had such a great personality. So quirky and spunky. I was sold! And here I am, nine pugs later.
Becker and Bijou - my first two pugs
Ingrid, Buster, Humphrey, and Greta (sans baby Bing) - my last little puglets
2.21.2010
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - O
OBU - my alma mater. If I had to do it all over again, I'm not so sure I'd pick a small faith-based institution but, over all, I was pleased with my years there. Bison, go with Ka-rip!
Ombligo - my second favorite word in Spanish. Means "belly button." My favorite word in Spanish? Hipopotamo.
Orange - my favorite color. Usually. Sometimes it's pink. And sometimes it's black. But usually it's orange.
Orange Julius - back in the day a mall trip wasn't complete without hitting Claire's Boutique, stalking a couple of cute guys, and getting a drink at Orange Julius. I loved their Strawberry Julius.
Orbit - my gum of choice. Peppermint.
Ombligo - my second favorite word in Spanish. Means "belly button." My favorite word in Spanish? Hipopotamo.
Orange - my favorite color. Usually. Sometimes it's pink. And sometimes it's black. But usually it's orange.
Orange Julius - back in the day a mall trip wasn't complete without hitting Claire's Boutique, stalking a couple of cute guys, and getting a drink at Orange Julius. I loved their Strawberry Julius.
Orbit - my gum of choice. Peppermint.
2.14.2010
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - N
Nicknames - at various times in my life I have been called: Snortney, Boobs, Spud Bud, Buttercup, and Coco. Any others I'm leaving out?
Nissan Murano - I. Want. One. So sleek. So sexy. I know, just like me...right?!
Nose Ring - Been done twice before. I have been contemplating do this to myself one more time. I think I could get away with it at my current school.
Nissan Murano - I. Want. One. So sleek. So sexy. I know, just like me...right?!
Nose Ring - Been done twice before. I have been contemplating do this to myself one more time. I think I could get away with it at my current school.
11.15.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - M
Mag - Mag (pronounced "Mog") was my Latin teacher in high school. Mag is short for "magistra" which means teacher. She is an amazing person and quite possibly the reason I decided to choose a career in education. When I was writing my eHarmony profile I had to talk about someone besides a family member who has influenced my life. I chose Mag.
Mamarj - this is the name I gave my mom's mom. Apparently I had everyone else's name down pat but I couldn't/wouldn't say "grandma." She coached and coached me and when I still wouldn't utter the word she longed to hear she gave up and said, "Marjorie, call me Marjorie." At that point I put the two together and came up with Mamarj. It stuck. She is a wonderful woman with so much love and wisdom to give. Some of my favorite memories growing up include her.
Michael J. Fox - my first celebrity crush.
Monkees - MTV used to air reruns of the show back in middle school. I was hooked! Davey Jones was my favorite. And my stepsister (18 years my junior) shares the love...she got their boxed DVD collection a few years ago at Christmas.
Mr. Taco - Best. Tacos. Ever. Topped with cilantro, onion, and a wedge of lime. And so cheap! Just north of I-244 on Lewis in Tulsa...go there!
Mamarj - this is the name I gave my mom's mom. Apparently I had everyone else's name down pat but I couldn't/wouldn't say "grandma." She coached and coached me and when I still wouldn't utter the word she longed to hear she gave up and said, "Marjorie, call me Marjorie." At that point I put the two together and came up with Mamarj. It stuck. She is a wonderful woman with so much love and wisdom to give. Some of my favorite memories growing up include her.
Michael J. Fox - my first celebrity crush.
Monkees - MTV used to air reruns of the show back in middle school. I was hooked! Davey Jones was my favorite. And my stepsister (18 years my junior) shares the love...she got their boxed DVD collection a few years ago at Christmas.
Mr. Taco - Best. Tacos. Ever. Topped with cilantro, onion, and a wedge of lime. And so cheap! Just north of I-244 on Lewis in Tulsa...go there!
11.09.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - L
Labrador Retrievers - As you all know, I have a slight obsession with animals and particularly with dogs. Once upon a time I rescued a chocolate lab and then ended up with a black lab and of course I had to complete the collection and get a yellow one. And they all slept in my bed with me at night. I know, I know...
Latin Geek - Oh yeah. Big. Latin. Geek. Four years in high school. Senior year I took home the first place ribbon in Academics at the OJCL (that's the Oklahoma Junior Classical League for those of you not in the know). I didn't just spend four weekends of my high school career surrounded by other Latin nerds, I competed against them! Academically. That means that while the cool kids were partying and having sex and whatnot I was in a classroom (on a Saturday!) taking tests about Latin grammar and Roman history and Greek mythology and...I need to scan the picture that ran in our local newspaper. Classic! And my Latin teacher, just wait 'til we get to Ms (next week, theoretically)!
Leopard Print - Love it! It has seeped into my home decor, my office at school, my wardrobe. Will be incorporated into my wedding one day. Mark my words.
Limes - I always order lime with my Dr. Pepper at a restaurant.
Lost - I'm a fanatic. Thank goodness this is the last season! I'm so confused and I don't think I can stand another season of more questions. I need answers, people! And what's with them holding off 'til winter to start their seasons. Do they really think they're that good? That people will just sit and wait with bated breath? Yes, they probably do and yes, we definitely will!!!
Latin Geek - Oh yeah. Big. Latin. Geek. Four years in high school. Senior year I took home the first place ribbon in Academics at the OJCL (that's the Oklahoma Junior Classical League for those of you not in the know). I didn't just spend four weekends of my high school career surrounded by other Latin nerds, I competed against them! Academically. That means that while the cool kids were partying and having sex and whatnot I was in a classroom (on a Saturday!) taking tests about Latin grammar and Roman history and Greek mythology and...I need to scan the picture that ran in our local newspaper. Classic! And my Latin teacher, just wait 'til we get to Ms (next week, theoretically)!
Leopard Print - Love it! It has seeped into my home decor, my office at school, my wardrobe. Will be incorporated into my wedding one day. Mark my words.
Limes - I always order lime with my Dr. Pepper at a restaurant.
Lost - I'm a fanatic. Thank goodness this is the last season! I'm so confused and I don't think I can stand another season of more questions. I need answers, people! And what's with them holding off 'til winter to start their seasons. Do they really think they're that good? That people will just sit and wait with bated breath? Yes, they probably do and yes, we definitely will!!!
10.18.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - K
Knees - I have bad ones. It all started at the end of my sophomore year of high school. My youth group was playing volleyball one night after church and I landed badly. For weeks I limped around and it felt all wobbly and if I tried to get into a car on the passenger side I would collapse. Finally got around to checking it out and they said there was just fluid built up. I lived with it for years...the limping improved and it would only occassionally "wobble" and I was able to get in and out of cars with ease. Athletic would never be an adjective to describe me, but I played racquetball and tennis and even more volleyball with the bad leg. Sometimes it was okay, sometimes not. Many years later I decided it would be a fantastic idea to play intramural football in my old age. We played in the rain one evening and I heard a pop in my other knee! I limped around for days and when I finally went to get it checked out I was certain I had a torn miniscus. Got an MRI and everything. They said it was fine. I beg to differ. Alas...perhaps when/if I drop some much needed weight my knees will improve but I guarantee you there is something wrong with them!
Kristin - I met her my freshman year of college and lived with her my junior year but it wasn't until J-term of our senior year that we became close. She's creative, has great taste, loves to think and continue learning, is passionate about giving back, has the best advice and knows just what to say, and is one of the most amazing people I've ever know. BFF!
Kristin - I met her my freshman year of college and lived with her my junior year but it wasn't until J-term of our senior year that we became close. She's creative, has great taste, loves to think and continue learning, is passionate about giving back, has the best advice and knows just what to say, and is one of the most amazing people I've ever know. BFF!
10.11.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - J
Japan - my grandmother is Japanese, born and raised in Tokyo. She met my grandfather when he was stationed there during the Korean War. A couple years later, he brought her to America. I hope to travel to Japan with her one day.
Jargon - okay, I actually prefer the term "lingo" but I'm searching for Js here. I love the jargon and acronyms that come with different jobs (take, for example, my job: EOIs, IEPs, AYP, API, ACE, NCLB, etc.), hobbies, and 4-year-old children. Here is what I've decoded so far...
"bweeto" means "burrito"
"cheater" means "cheerleader"
"getty" means "spaghetti"
"mudder" means "mother"
"pock pock" means "backpack"
"pooh-ding" means "pudding"
"scissor" means "sister" and yet "zizzers" means "scissors"
Jeep - still missing Geronimo, may he rest in peace.
Jobs - I just counted and I've held 16 jobs over the years. Not since graduation, mind you. Several were parttime jobs held at night (nothing risque!) for a little extra cash.
June - my birth month. Growing up I always felt jipped because 1) school was out so fewer people came to my parties and 2) the pearl seemed like the lamest gemstone ever. I mean, it's not really even a GEMstone. But now I love that it's the most unique one. Go figure.
Jury Duty - I've never been asked to serve and part of me is very grateful but another part really wants to sit in on a super exciting trial and determine someone's fate. I know...gotta watch what I wish for!
Jargon - okay, I actually prefer the term "lingo" but I'm searching for Js here. I love the jargon and acronyms that come with different jobs (take, for example, my job: EOIs, IEPs, AYP, API, ACE, NCLB, etc.), hobbies, and 4-year-old children. Here is what I've decoded so far...
"bweeto" means "burrito"
"cheater" means "cheerleader"
"getty" means "spaghetti"
"mudder" means "mother"
"pock pock" means "backpack"
"pooh-ding" means "pudding"
"scissor" means "sister" and yet "zizzers" means "scissors"
Jeep - still missing Geronimo, may he rest in peace.
Jobs - I just counted and I've held 16 jobs over the years. Not since graduation, mind you. Several were parttime jobs held at night (nothing risque!) for a little extra cash.
June - my birth month. Growing up I always felt jipped because 1) school was out so fewer people came to my parties and 2) the pearl seemed like the lamest gemstone ever. I mean, it's not really even a GEMstone. But now I love that it's the most unique one. Go figure.
Jury Duty - I've never been asked to serve and part of me is very grateful but another part really wants to sit in on a super exciting trial and determine someone's fate. I know...gotta watch what I wish for!
9.08.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - I
Iams Dog Food - Healthy Naturals. Weight Control. On sale at Big Lots...$12 a big bag. When I brought home my first dog (a beautiful chocolate lab) I swore I'd feed him nothing but the best and bought Eukanuba. When the one dog became three beautiful labrador retrievers the pricey stuff went out the window. Downgraded to Iams and have bought it ever since. I don't know if this Healthy Naturals is for real or just a big marketing hoax or what. I've been buying it for about a year now and as long as Big Lots has it on sale I'll keep biting.
Incontinence - I fear this may be a problem for me in the future. Just this past weekend I waited a little too long to take a bathroom break. I had been warned that the restrooms at our football stadium were less that sanitary so I thought I could make it home. But before leaving the game I headed over to another friend to chat for a bit. En route to my house I made the executive decision to stop at Arby's and use their facilities. I am ashamed to admit that as I was getting out of my car I may have leaked just a tiny bit. This normally wouldn't concern me too badly as I did have several glasses of sweet tea at dinner and I did spend too much time visiting with my friend. Unfortunately though, I experienced a very similar incident just a few weeks ago on my way home from the family reunion. Depends, anyone?
Indecisiveness - It's a curse. Right now I'm all moved into my cute new house but I have no seating in my living room. Can't decide on the gorgeous white velvet couch or the more durable (and affordable) chocolate brown one. I've known this pesky decision was lurking around the corner for almost two months now but I still can't choose. Going to the video store is a chore. I almost always come home with more than one movie simply because I get tired of trying to pick just one. But going out to eat with me is the worst. Even if I knew I would come back to the same restaurant the next day it would still be difficult for me to pick an entree. Inevitably the server makes at least one decision for me. Really? Am I that immobilized by decision making? Apparently so. And, yes, I do own a Magic 8 Ball.
Insubordination - my last boss accused me of blatantly refusing to follow her directions. That was at the end of our working relationship, thank goodness. I can assure you that I have never blatantly refused to do anything a "superior" has asked me to do. Superior, ha!
Incontinence - I fear this may be a problem for me in the future. Just this past weekend I waited a little too long to take a bathroom break. I had been warned that the restrooms at our football stadium were less that sanitary so I thought I could make it home. But before leaving the game I headed over to another friend to chat for a bit. En route to my house I made the executive decision to stop at Arby's and use their facilities. I am ashamed to admit that as I was getting out of my car I may have leaked just a tiny bit. This normally wouldn't concern me too badly as I did have several glasses of sweet tea at dinner and I did spend too much time visiting with my friend. Unfortunately though, I experienced a very similar incident just a few weeks ago on my way home from the family reunion. Depends, anyone?
Indecisiveness - It's a curse. Right now I'm all moved into my cute new house but I have no seating in my living room. Can't decide on the gorgeous white velvet couch or the more durable (and affordable) chocolate brown one. I've known this pesky decision was lurking around the corner for almost two months now but I still can't choose. Going to the video store is a chore. I almost always come home with more than one movie simply because I get tired of trying to pick just one. But going out to eat with me is the worst. Even if I knew I would come back to the same restaurant the next day it would still be difficult for me to pick an entree. Inevitably the server makes at least one decision for me. Really? Am I that immobilized by decision making? Apparently so. And, yes, I do own a Magic 8 Ball.
Insubordination - my last boss accused me of blatantly refusing to follow her directions. That was at the end of our working relationship, thank goodness. I can assure you that I have never blatantly refused to do anything a "superior" has asked me to do. Superior, ha!
8.02.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - H
Halloween - my favorite holiday. Not sure exactly when it happened but at some point in my adult life I decided that Halloween was the greatest thing ever. Well, not so much the pagan origins and everything, but to dress up and play pretend. And to decorate the house with dim lights, dust, and cobwebs. I mean, come on! It's the one month I don't feel so domestically-challenged, you know? And I love all the vintage-y halloween decorations out there. Some glittery, some paper mache, none too scary or cutesy-crafty. I've rocked some smokin' costumes in my day...the standard stuffed pumpkin as an infant, both a Snoopy and Witch costume (the kind with the face masks and entirely plastic jumpsuits), a princess with the most amazing hat ever (although now I think it probably just looked like a sparkly dunce cap!). In the mid-80s I'm pretty sure I dressed as a punk rocker three years in a row. And in college my friends and I went as the cast of the Wizard of Oz. I've been a geisha girl and a bag of jelly beans. A couple years ago I won first place in a costume contest for being the Corpse Bride (Tim Burton, anyone?). And just this weekend I came up with an idea for this year's costume whilst sitting in a movie theater.
Harry Potter - Okay, I held out as long as I could before jumping on the band wagon. A friend began reading the series when JK Rowling started putting them out all those years ago and he swore they were amazing. My response was always, "You've got to be kidding me...they're, like, children's books." And then I started working with kids again and a couple of years ago I borrowed each and every book from one of my counselors' aides. And I'm not ashamed to admit that by the fifth book I had myself a little crush on Harry himself.
Harwelden Mansion - this is the fabulous venue where I've wanted to get married forever. Ever since I attended the Pep Club's Spring Fling in the ninth grade. I want a small gathering of my closest friends and family there with a touching (but short) ceremony as the sun sets, a champagne toast, hors d'oeuvres and dancing, followed by a sparkler send-off. Interestingly enough, a good friend of mine had a similar wedding there several years ago. Crazy how great minds think alike! Of course, at this rate I may never get married. So I'm thinking maybe she should just make an extra copy of their wedding album so I can paste my head and that of some gorgeous underwear model's in their pictures and just pretend...
Hiccup Hiccup In My Teacup - So I really just felt like I needed an extra entry...When I got a severe cases of the hiccups a few years back a coworker walked up to me, extended her arms out, offered me an invisible cup of tea, and said, "Hiccup hiccup in my teacup." And the hiccupping ceased. Since then, I've used it on everyone I've run into (with the exception of strangers, of course) and I would say it has a 95% success rate. Try it; you'll like it!
Hooters on Scooters - the baddest, most fabulous gang of scooter gals around! The largest all-female scooter riding group out there. And I'm a part of it. Just one of the HOS. Well, at least I was. Got a couple rides in with those lovely ladies. And a cool t-shirt. But more importantly, their cause (breast cancer research and awareness) is close to my heart (figuratively and literally, I guess). I lost a very dear woman in my life to breast cancer three years ago. And my stepmom has been in remission for a number of years now.
7.12.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - G
Gay Bar - so my (totally straight) cousin texted me last week and asked if I'd want to go to see a drag queen show. As it turns out, I did want to go see a drag queen show. My curiosity has been peaked by a friend's stories as well as watching the episode of Sex and the City with the transexual prostitutes. I was envisioning a very glamorous evening of cosmopolitans, a catwalk, and fabulous hair. What I got was a dingy, dimly lit gay bar with awkward people waving dollar bills around and TV monitors with, well I won't go into what was playing on the monitors. To top it off, the queens were less than what I had hoped for. They lip synced and danced (sorta) to songs. Most were bad, a couple were decent, and the one I thought was simply fabulous turned out to be, get this, a real woman! Talk about confusing! The highlight of the evening was when the guy taking the cover charge asked for my ID and he said, "Oh my, I was way off on that one." "I'm sorry?" I asked. "Your age. I always try to guess everyone's age before I look at their ID," he replied. "Oh," I said, "How old did you think I was?" And he said to me, "I seriously thought you were 25 tops. Girl, whatever you're doing, keep on doing it!" I was waiting for a finger snap and bobble head movement but I never got it. I guess I do clean up pretty good after all. The low point of the evening, however, came when my sister and I were leaving the bar together (she drove) and a creepy guy followed us out and asked us if we were "like, uh, lesbians or something?" Ew, we're related! Although given our location, I guess I can't really blame the guy for asking.
Geronimo - ah, my trusty Jeep. My companion for over seven (count 'em, 7!) years. I really miss being in an SUV these days. I'm not so sure that the savings in gas mileage is really worth it or not. And his storage capacity! No way his windshield would have cracked under the pressure of fitting in an awkward piece of furniture. I miss him. At least he died a hero. He went out in a blaze of glory. Okay, okay, it was more like a puff of smoke that left me stranded on the highway.
Greta (the Jetta) - my newest liege. So far so good except for, of course, that pesky windshield incident...bygones! I'm envisioning many years of her company. I don't talk to her or pat her quite as much as I did Geronimo but I'm sure time will change that.
Guilty Conscience - I don't know what it is but I almost always feel like people are watching me when I'm out shopping. Like they're just waiting for me to shoplift something. Even though I know certain stores make bogus announcements like, "Security, sweep section four," I always freak out and wonder if I'm in section four. I worry about draping my jacket over my arm if I'm too hot because I don't want them to think I'm trying to cover up something I'm trying to swipe. I wonder why I carry such a big purse because that's gotta be a sure sign I want to fill it up with "freebies." I wonder why that woman (she must be undercover security) keeps walking by me because she's gotta be checking to see if I'm trying to put a lipstick in my pocket or something. I know, I know, major paranoia. Where did it come from?! I mean, there was the incident with the Snoopy pencil set thing I was like seven or something but that's been over 25 years ago! I mean seriously, what gives?!
Geronimo - ah, my trusty Jeep. My companion for over seven (count 'em, 7!) years. I really miss being in an SUV these days. I'm not so sure that the savings in gas mileage is really worth it or not. And his storage capacity! No way his windshield would have cracked under the pressure of fitting in an awkward piece of furniture. I miss him. At least he died a hero. He went out in a blaze of glory. Okay, okay, it was more like a puff of smoke that left me stranded on the highway.
Greta (the Jetta) - my newest liege. So far so good except for, of course, that pesky windshield incident...bygones! I'm envisioning many years of her company. I don't talk to her or pat her quite as much as I did Geronimo but I'm sure time will change that.
Guilty Conscience - I don't know what it is but I almost always feel like people are watching me when I'm out shopping. Like they're just waiting for me to shoplift something. Even though I know certain stores make bogus announcements like, "Security, sweep section four," I always freak out and wonder if I'm in section four. I worry about draping my jacket over my arm if I'm too hot because I don't want them to think I'm trying to cover up something I'm trying to swipe. I wonder why I carry such a big purse because that's gotta be a sure sign I want to fill it up with "freebies." I wonder why that woman (she must be undercover security) keeps walking by me because she's gotta be checking to see if I'm trying to put a lipstick in my pocket or something. I know, I know, major paranoia. Where did it come from?! I mean, there was the incident with the Snoopy pencil set thing I was like seven or something but that's been over 25 years ago! I mean seriously, what gives?!
7.06.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - F
Family Reunion - in August all of my grandmother's siblings and their respective offspring will head to Arkansas for our not-so-annual family reunion. Used to get together almost yearly but as time has gone by it's been less and less often. I skipped a few during my college years and beyond and only attended the last one in 2004 because it was in town. But I'm biting the bullet and heading east this year. I even signed up to be in charge of the t-shirts and family photo session. Go figure!
Farfegnugen - Greta the Jetta = pure German driving pleasure. Minus, of course, the cracked windshield.
Foster Kids - A few years back I decided to sign up to be a foster parent. There were a couple of different reasons that all collided at the time and I decided to go for it. Definitely the most meaningful experience of my life to date. It was so, so hard and there were times I was ready to give in but having those little girls in my life for what little time I did was so amazing. I'm in awe of my mother for raising both me and my sister on her own and think all single parents deserve medals. It's a crazy business!
Miss K. Only had her for six weeks but she was a firecracker! Such big eyes and a twangy little voice.
Little Miss M. Got her two days after her 1st birthday and had her for almost two full years. She still has my heart.
FREE - How can you pass up free stuff?! Here's my lastest free find...the awfully tacky headboard that is soon to be transformed into what will hopefully be pretty posh in an Urban Outfitters kind of way once it receives its glossy black paint job. Thoughts?
F*ck - For those of you who may not know I do indeed have a potty mouth. And my wordy dird of choice seems to be f*ck. Not freak, not frig, not eff, but f*ck. I don't know excactly when it creeped into my vocabulary but having worked with the people I have for the past four years (not talking about the children, mind you) it just rolls off my tongue now. It's kind of liberating for some odd reason. When I stub my toe: "F*ckin' A!" When I'm ready to give up, "F*ck it." And my personal favorite, when someone cuts me off on the highway: "F*ckwad!!!"
6.02.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - E
So much for weekly posting...
E
Elephant - I can remember a trip to the zoo where I got to ride on an elephant with my dad. So big and tall. Lumbering slowy in a big circle. And elephants just seem like kind animals. It's their eyes, I think. So big. So blinky. Long lashes. Except now that I think about it maybe it was a camel I rode on. With my stepmother?
English Bulldog - I want one. Brindle with white spots. And I shall call her Stella. Or maybe Lola.
Ephemera - this is one of my favorite words. It just rolls off the tongue..."ephemera." Go ahead, try it. And the definition! "transitory written and printed matter not intended to be retained or preserved"...basically it's just old paper stuff. Discarded photos, cards, tickets, advertising, bingo cards, etc. Perfect for all sorts of crafts. And it's collectible!
Eric - my brother. One of my favorite guys. Quite the guy. Double majored in finance and marketing. Ended up in China teaching English. Currently in seminary. Wow. A man of few words. But the words are witty.
Ethan - my nephew. Another one of my favorite guys. He is an engineer at heart. From the time he was two he was spinning anything he could get his hands on...coins, buttons, tops, etc. Then it was assembling Hot Wheels tracks into monster race courses. Now he's moved on to K'nex. An engineer, I tell ya. Mark my words...
Extravaganza - I cannot help but say this word in my head in a booming car salesman's voice. Everytime I write it or see it it's an ex-TRAVA-ganza!!!!!
E
Elephant - I can remember a trip to the zoo where I got to ride on an elephant with my dad. So big and tall. Lumbering slowy in a big circle. And elephants just seem like kind animals. It's their eyes, I think. So big. So blinky. Long lashes. Except now that I think about it maybe it was a camel I rode on. With my stepmother?
English Bulldog - I want one. Brindle with white spots. And I shall call her Stella. Or maybe Lola.
Ephemera - this is one of my favorite words. It just rolls off the tongue..."ephemera." Go ahead, try it. And the definition! "transitory written and printed matter not intended to be retained or preserved"...basically it's just old paper stuff. Discarded photos, cards, tickets, advertising, bingo cards, etc. Perfect for all sorts of crafts. And it's collectible!
Eric - my brother. One of my favorite guys. Quite the guy. Double majored in finance and marketing. Ended up in China teaching English. Currently in seminary. Wow. A man of few words. But the words are witty.
Ethan - my nephew. Another one of my favorite guys. He is an engineer at heart. From the time he was two he was spinning anything he could get his hands on...coins, buttons, tops, etc. Then it was assembling Hot Wheels tracks into monster race courses. Now he's moved on to K'nex. An engineer, I tell ya. Mark my words...
Extravaganza - I cannot help but say this word in my head in a booming car salesman's voice. Everytime I write it or see it it's an ex-TRAVA-ganza!!!!!
5.17.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - D
D
Dave Matthews Band - I am in love. Enough said.
Dill Pickles - I love, love, love me some dill pickles! Not sweet pickles, not bread and butter pickles. Dill pickles. Ah...when I was a kid I'd go to my grandparents' house after school and I'd scoop out some of Mamarj's homemade pickles and eat them with ranch dressing (I was a visionary, I tell ya!). Not much has changed over the years. When I go to Mazzio's and hit the salad bar I load up on their perfectly chopped bite-size pickles and ranch. Mmmmm...I think I'm salivating a bit here. And you know you have great friends when you're at lunch and they offer up their own pickle just because of the sheer joy it gives you. Thanks, Steph!
Dogs - I've always loved dogs and have almost always had them growing up and as a grown up. They're so cute. And sweet. And so loving. Even if you've had a rotten day and don't spend as much time as you should with them, they're there with those big understanding eyes and a wagging tail. Just hoping they can do something, anything, just to make it better for you. Also, I collect porcelain dog figurines. Of the vintage variety and not so much of the dollar store variety. I have just gone room by room and counted 20 of them. In bookcases, under cloches, on pedestals. They're everywhere! Just as they should be.
Drinking - Except for the occassional stolen swig of schnapps from my dad's kitchen when a friend spent the night or a random sip of beer (with some adult's permission) or the accidental glass of champagne I got at my stepaunt's wedding reception (I honestly thought it was a punch fountain! And I only took the one sip.). I really never drank alcholic beverages until I turned 21. Even then, as a student at a faith-based college, I rarely did. After college I loosened up a bit but I was never going to be mistaken for a party girl. Not until the last couple of years have I ever really experienced being intoxicated. And thankfully (knock on wood) I have yet to experience a hangover or sleeping next to a toilet. It's not a goal I have. And drinking is just too dang expensive to make a habit out of it.
Driving - Ugh. Driving is one of my least favorite things. I spend at least an hour a day in my car on my way to and from both jobs and various errands. I feel trapped. And I get angry. Yes, I suppose the term "road rage" could be used to describe me. And I'm not so great at it, to tell you the truth. I've backed into my fair share of parked vehicles. As much as I dislike driving I did, however, plan and execute a long road trip a couple of years back. I traveled to FL to pick up my best friend, meandering through towns of interest and stopping to visit friends along the way. Once I got to her, we headed to New Orleans together and then continued on to TX. I actually really enjoyed that trip, even the 8-hour legs on any given day. I don't think there was much road rage on that trip, even in the places I was unfamiliar with. Wonder what the difference is. Hmmm...
Dave Matthews Band - I am in love. Enough said.
Dill Pickles - I love, love, love me some dill pickles! Not sweet pickles, not bread and butter pickles. Dill pickles. Ah...when I was a kid I'd go to my grandparents' house after school and I'd scoop out some of Mamarj's homemade pickles and eat them with ranch dressing (I was a visionary, I tell ya!). Not much has changed over the years. When I go to Mazzio's and hit the salad bar I load up on their perfectly chopped bite-size pickles and ranch. Mmmmm...I think I'm salivating a bit here. And you know you have great friends when you're at lunch and they offer up their own pickle just because of the sheer joy it gives you. Thanks, Steph!
Dogs - I've always loved dogs and have almost always had them growing up and as a grown up. They're so cute. And sweet. And so loving. Even if you've had a rotten day and don't spend as much time as you should with them, they're there with those big understanding eyes and a wagging tail. Just hoping they can do something, anything, just to make it better for you. Also, I collect porcelain dog figurines. Of the vintage variety and not so much of the dollar store variety. I have just gone room by room and counted 20 of them. In bookcases, under cloches, on pedestals. They're everywhere! Just as they should be.
Drinking - Except for the occassional stolen swig of schnapps from my dad's kitchen when a friend spent the night or a random sip of beer (with some adult's permission) or the accidental glass of champagne I got at my stepaunt's wedding reception (I honestly thought it was a punch fountain! And I only took the one sip.). I really never drank alcholic beverages until I turned 21. Even then, as a student at a faith-based college, I rarely did. After college I loosened up a bit but I was never going to be mistaken for a party girl. Not until the last couple of years have I ever really experienced being intoxicated. And thankfully (knock on wood) I have yet to experience a hangover or sleeping next to a toilet. It's not a goal I have. And drinking is just too dang expensive to make a habit out of it.
Driving - Ugh. Driving is one of my least favorite things. I spend at least an hour a day in my car on my way to and from both jobs and various errands. I feel trapped. And I get angry. Yes, I suppose the term "road rage" could be used to describe me. And I'm not so great at it, to tell you the truth. I've backed into my fair share of parked vehicles. As much as I dislike driving I did, however, plan and execute a long road trip a couple of years back. I traveled to FL to pick up my best friend, meandering through towns of interest and stopping to visit friends along the way. Once I got to her, we headed to New Orleans together and then continued on to TX. I actually really enjoyed that trip, even the 8-hour legs on any given day. I don't think there was much road rage on that trip, even in the places I was unfamiliar with. Wonder what the difference is. Hmmm...
5.10.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - C
C
Cat, as in "That Darned Cat!" - I've snuck into my neighbors' overgrown yard FIVE times now to open a window and let my cat out. Her entrance has been barricaded more than once but nothing seems to stop her. Five times! I think it's time Olive finds herself a new home. And, no, I'm not referring to my neighbors' creepy abandoned home.
Concerts - I love, love, love live music. The first concert I ever went to was Michael W. Smith in the 9th grade. Although my music tastes have changed quite a bit since then my love of the concert experience has not. In the last couple of years I've had the pleasure of seeing Dave Matthews Band (2x, with and without Tim Reynolds!), U2, Sarah MacLaughlin, Indigo Girls (2x), Rufus Wainwright, Ben Folds, Coldplay (2x), Cat Power, Gnarls Barkley, The Flaming Lips, Damien Rice, Feist, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Eli Young Band, James Blunt, Sheryl Crow, New Kids on the Block, Shiny Toy Guns, The All-American Rejects, and (most recently) Matt Costa.
Crafts - I need to make more time for me to unleash my creative side. I'm drawn to all types of crafts and am in awe of those of my friends who excel in one area or another. Val and her quilts, Kristin and her purses, Adrian and her photography, Ashley and her painting, etc. And now that my eyes have been opened to the world of bloggers, I'm inspired each and every day by someone new. I would love to delve into a particular area (maybe mixed media collage?) and find out I had some talent in that area.
Crushes - I've been making a lot of lists these days while at my second job. I'm sure many of these lists will become their own posts in the future, but since this one is "brought to you by the letter C" I thought I'd include a chronological list of my crushes here. I wish that the intensity of school age crushes would stay with you on into adulthood. It would make the whole dating over the age of 30 thing much more fun. But probably a bit more dangerous. Hmmm...here goes:
4th grade - Kelsey H. and Jay B.
5th grade - Kelly L. (he moved away that year)
6th grade - John S. I remember he sat behind me and over one row in our reading class. I checked the clock above his head at least 15 times a class period just to get one more glimpse of him.
7th grade - Marcus M. and Ed K.
8th grade -Michael M. and Mike H.
9th grade - James W. and Phil G. This particular crush lasted until...
Junior year (college) - Mike C.
Senior year (college) - Michael F.
Post-college - Jon W. and (much further down the road) Chris B.
As with most crushes, the majority of my feelings for these boys were unrequited. I dated only three of them. And I've had relationships since, but there's still nothing like that feeling of butterflies aflutter in the pit of your stomach when you anticipate running into your crush in the hall between classes or whenever/wherever you might see him. My palms would start to sweat and I'd begin to hyperventilate. As much as I hoped they speak to me I equally hoped they wouldn't because I was absolutely sure that nothing intelligible or intelligent would escape my lips. Ah, the good ol' days.
Cat, as in "That Darned Cat!" - I've snuck into my neighbors' overgrown yard FIVE times now to open a window and let my cat out. Her entrance has been barricaded more than once but nothing seems to stop her. Five times! I think it's time Olive finds herself a new home. And, no, I'm not referring to my neighbors' creepy abandoned home.
Concerts - I love, love, love live music. The first concert I ever went to was Michael W. Smith in the 9th grade. Although my music tastes have changed quite a bit since then my love of the concert experience has not. In the last couple of years I've had the pleasure of seeing Dave Matthews Band (2x, with and without Tim Reynolds!), U2, Sarah MacLaughlin, Indigo Girls (2x), Rufus Wainwright, Ben Folds, Coldplay (2x), Cat Power, Gnarls Barkley, The Flaming Lips, Damien Rice, Feist, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Eli Young Band, James Blunt, Sheryl Crow, New Kids on the Block, Shiny Toy Guns, The All-American Rejects, and (most recently) Matt Costa.
Crafts - I need to make more time for me to unleash my creative side. I'm drawn to all types of crafts and am in awe of those of my friends who excel in one area or another. Val and her quilts, Kristin and her purses, Adrian and her photography, Ashley and her painting, etc. And now that my eyes have been opened to the world of bloggers, I'm inspired each and every day by someone new. I would love to delve into a particular area (maybe mixed media collage?) and find out I had some talent in that area.
Crushes - I've been making a lot of lists these days while at my second job. I'm sure many of these lists will become their own posts in the future, but since this one is "brought to you by the letter C" I thought I'd include a chronological list of my crushes here. I wish that the intensity of school age crushes would stay with you on into adulthood. It would make the whole dating over the age of 30 thing much more fun. But probably a bit more dangerous. Hmmm...here goes:
4th grade - Kelsey H. and Jay B.
5th grade - Kelly L. (he moved away that year)
6th grade - John S. I remember he sat behind me and over one row in our reading class. I checked the clock above his head at least 15 times a class period just to get one more glimpse of him.
7th grade - Marcus M. and Ed K.
8th grade -Michael M. and Mike H.
9th grade - James W. and Phil G. This particular crush lasted until...
Junior year (college) - Mike C.
Senior year (college) - Michael F.
Post-college - Jon W. and (much further down the road) Chris B.
As with most crushes, the majority of my feelings for these boys were unrequited. I dated only three of them. And I've had relationships since, but there's still nothing like that feeling of butterflies aflutter in the pit of your stomach when you anticipate running into your crush in the hall between classes or whenever/wherever you might see him. My palms would start to sweat and I'd begin to hyperventilate. As much as I hoped they speak to me I equally hoped they wouldn't because I was absolutely sure that nothing intelligible or intelligent would escape my lips. Ah, the good ol' days.
5.03.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life - B
B
Bijou - Bijou is the name I gave to my precious black pug. She's four and a half years old now and already started to gray around her face and stomach. I got her in the beginning of October 2004 and nicknamed her Boo. Somewhere along the way I dropped the Boo and reverted back to Bijou but my family still refers to her as Boo. I was living on campus as a dorm director when I bought her (she's the only dog I've ever purchased from a pet store. I usually adopt my animals but I simply couldn't resist when I saw her sitting in that glass box) and not allowed to have pets in the dorm. So I did what I had to do...I smuggled her in (a pug smuggler, ha!) and kept her a (relative) secret for the nine months I continued to live there. She's a big gal at around 28 pounds. Each year we go to the vet for her check up I get the same lecture...she really shouldn't be putting on any additional weight...but I stopped listening because he's been saying that for the last three years (and at least the last eight or so pounds!).
Bridesmaid, as in "Always a bridesmaid, never a bride." - I have had the distinct pleasure and honor of standing up at the altar with Amber, Deanna, Stephanie, Sarah, Mom, Jenny, Janessa, and Kristin as they've vowed to commit their lives to their men. This fall I'll be at it again with Courtney O. And while I hope to one day have my own wedding, for the time being I'm content with the fact that all these lovely ladies (I thought there was a 10th one in there somewhere) are happily married all these years later.
Bungalow - I live in a craftsman bungalow built in 1920. Her name is Loraine (from a sign we found in the attic). She's got 9-foot ceilings and incredible crown moldings (at least a foot tall in the living and dining rooms), hardwoods throughout (although they've been damaged pretty badly in the bathroom and kitchen), french doors out to the wraparound front porch and out to the side porch, a sleeping porch off my bedroom (that I use as a dressing room), and built in cabinetry and columns in my dining room. I love her, I love her, I love her, despite the cold winters and hot summers. But it's been a lot of work and there's so much more to go. I don't know that I'll ever get a profit out of her. But she's been worth it all.
Bunco/Bunko - No matter how you spell it, I have the pleasure of being a part of the greatest group of Bunko babes ever. I look forward to spending time with these lovely ladies every month, with or without Amber's Chinese acrobats. I have also been nominated to host October bunkos from here on out (See "H" for Halloween in a couple of months). I began playing bunko as a sub for my aunt's group some 10 or 15 years ago. Every once in a while our family gathers to play around the holidays.
Buttercup - My 2008 cream-colored Kymco People 150. I was hit with the scooter bug thanks to my friends Valerie and Doug. Ever since they sent out Christmas photos of themselves on their scooters five or so years ago, I knew I would one day own a scooter. And really, who doesn't want to be as cool as Val and Doug? Read about my relationship with Buttercup here.
Bijou - Bijou is the name I gave to my precious black pug. She's four and a half years old now and already started to gray around her face and stomach. I got her in the beginning of October 2004 and nicknamed her Boo. Somewhere along the way I dropped the Boo and reverted back to Bijou but my family still refers to her as Boo. I was living on campus as a dorm director when I bought her (she's the only dog I've ever purchased from a pet store. I usually adopt my animals but I simply couldn't resist when I saw her sitting in that glass box) and not allowed to have pets in the dorm. So I did what I had to do...I smuggled her in (a pug smuggler, ha!) and kept her a (relative) secret for the nine months I continued to live there. She's a big gal at around 28 pounds. Each year we go to the vet for her check up I get the same lecture...she really shouldn't be putting on any additional weight...but I stopped listening because he's been saying that for the last three years (and at least the last eight or so pounds!).
Bridesmaid, as in "Always a bridesmaid, never a bride." - I have had the distinct pleasure and honor of standing up at the altar with Amber, Deanna, Stephanie, Sarah, Mom, Jenny, Janessa, and Kristin as they've vowed to commit their lives to their men. This fall I'll be at it again with Courtney O. And while I hope to one day have my own wedding, for the time being I'm content with the fact that all these lovely ladies (I thought there was a 10th one in there somewhere) are happily married all these years later.
Bungalow - I live in a craftsman bungalow built in 1920. Her name is Loraine (from a sign we found in the attic). She's got 9-foot ceilings and incredible crown moldings (at least a foot tall in the living and dining rooms), hardwoods throughout (although they've been damaged pretty badly in the bathroom and kitchen), french doors out to the wraparound front porch and out to the side porch, a sleeping porch off my bedroom (that I use as a dressing room), and built in cabinetry and columns in my dining room. I love her, I love her, I love her, despite the cold winters and hot summers. But it's been a lot of work and there's so much more to go. I don't know that I'll ever get a profit out of her. But she's been worth it all.
Bunco/Bunko - No matter how you spell it, I have the pleasure of being a part of the greatest group of Bunko babes ever. I look forward to spending time with these lovely ladies every month, with or without Amber's Chinese acrobats. I have also been nominated to host October bunkos from here on out (See "H" for Halloween in a couple of months). I began playing bunko as a sub for my aunt's group some 10 or 15 years ago. Every once in a while our family gathers to play around the holidays.
Buttercup - My 2008 cream-colored Kymco People 150. I was hit with the scooter bug thanks to my friends Valerie and Doug. Ever since they sent out Christmas photos of themselves on their scooters five or so years ago, I knew I would one day own a scooter. And really, who doesn't want to be as cool as Val and Doug? Read about my relationship with Buttercup here.
4.28.2009
Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life
A couple of years ago I stumbled across this book by Amy Krouse Rothenthal. It's a memoir of her rather ordinary life all neatly organized and alphabetized. I thought it'd be fun to do weekly posts of my own ordinary life. This will hopefully also serve as an incentive for me to post more regularly. I'd planned on starting on Sunday and now I'm already a few days behind so we'll see if it really works. But at least I won't be able to claim writer's block. At least not for another 26 weeks...
A
Airconditioning - Loraine, my little old house, does not have central heat and air. Summers are horrible; I can hardly bear them. I have a couple of window units but it just isn't the same. I think it's partly to blame for why I spend all my money at the beginning of the summer. Just looking for somewhere to go to get out of the dreadfully sticky heat that is my house.
Airstream - I don't know when it started...10 years ago maybe...but it is my mission in life to procure a vintage Airstream travel trailer and fix it up. I'd be equally happy traveling to both ends of Route 66 in it or having it sit in my backyard as a craft studio/guest house. I am beginning to have quite the Airstream paraphernalia collection: I have an Airstream pendant necklace (one of my favorite pieces of jewelry), a couple of Airstream birdhouses, coffee table books, and a strand of Airstream porch lights. Oh yeah.
Altered Art - glass pebble magnets, mixed media collages, altered tins, altered books. I want to create!
Apple - I like apples alright. Red Delicious are my favorite, then Galas, then the Pink Lady. I do not like green apples unless they are submerged in caramel and chocolate and nuts (oh, Kim, I miss you and your apples!). But I would never, ever name my child after a fruit.
Australia - on my list of places to go to.
A
Airconditioning - Loraine, my little old house, does not have central heat and air. Summers are horrible; I can hardly bear them. I have a couple of window units but it just isn't the same. I think it's partly to blame for why I spend all my money at the beginning of the summer. Just looking for somewhere to go to get out of the dreadfully sticky heat that is my house.
Airstream - I don't know when it started...10 years ago maybe...but it is my mission in life to procure a vintage Airstream travel trailer and fix it up. I'd be equally happy traveling to both ends of Route 66 in it or having it sit in my backyard as a craft studio/guest house. I am beginning to have quite the Airstream paraphernalia collection: I have an Airstream pendant necklace (one of my favorite pieces of jewelry), a couple of Airstream birdhouses, coffee table books, and a strand of Airstream porch lights. Oh yeah.
Altered Art - glass pebble magnets, mixed media collages, altered tins, altered books. I want to create!
Apple - I like apples alright. Red Delicious are my favorite, then Galas, then the Pink Lady. I do not like green apples unless they are submerged in caramel and chocolate and nuts (oh, Kim, I miss you and your apples!). But I would never, ever name my child after a fruit.
Australia - on my list of places to go to.
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