Today is the 3rd Annual Blog Day!

So what does that mean??? It's Blog Day??? Yes, it is.

So, what does that mean?? Do I win a prize for being a blogger since it is Blog Day and all??? Well...not quite, but it is a great opportunity to highlight some new and different blogs.

What you are supposed to do...is go out there in the internets and find 5 new blogs that you like, that peak your interest and that hopefully are a smidge different from you. Check out your friends' blogrolls...check out all those random people that go to the same forums as you, etc.

Once you find the 5 blogs...let them know you will be highlighting them and then give them a lovely shout out on your blog. It's a way of sharing the wonderful blogging love. And finally, you add yourself to the Blog Day tag and you are all done! Simple, eh? If it's so simple....get to doing it yourself!!! *winks*

So, here are five of my favorite newly discovered blogs:

Need to Be Debt Free: I also found this blog while searching for like minded people who are trying to pay off all their debts and quickly. It was inspiring to find someone who was really willing to sacrifice in order to get their goals accomplished. I find that a lot of people talk about paying bills, reducing their debt, but not many are willing to give up those luxuries in life to do it. This guy is.

101 Reasons I Hate Being Fat: I have been reading this blog for a little while now. I found it through a search of my one of favorite health and fitness sites. I just think she is daring and talks honesty about her struggles with weight, self esteem, etc...all while trying to exercise and eat healthy, etc. She's much more honest than I am...so I really respect reading her posts. I do wish that her blog title wasn't so negative because I imagine it's hard to change your self esteem when you are always reminding yourself what you hate about your body, etc...but then again, it's telling the truth and there is honor in that. Check her out. She already has more visitors than me, but that's okay...I'm not jealous.

Suburban Turmoil: I found this blog from reading some of the people who read Y's blog. Y makes me laugh...and so does this blog. I like people who tell real life stories and leave me laughing so hard...that soda is now coming out of my nose. Read this post about her using a fake name in the phone book...if you aren't laughing...well then, I don't want you reading my blog either.

The Incovenient Truth: No. this isn't a blog all about Al Gore and his plan to make the whole world green...not that I would mind that blog either. It's Leigh's blog...she is someone I found through the Alexa project at PPP. (If you don't know what that is...it's ok!) I love her blog...her stories. We don't always agree, but that's cool. We got into a little debate on chicken and egg farms. It was a nice conversation that didn't turn into snippy fighting. She's awesome...check her out.

Don't Fear The Truth: I love this blog. It's funny. It's snarky. It's political. Basically, it's a good time had by all. I found it through the forums over at PPP. One of the things I like best is that it is mainly a political blog, but it doesn't take itself SO seriously that it makes you throw up in your mouth a little bit while reading it. It is also funny...and doesn't apologize for it, etc. So...if you like getting some politics with a side of tee, hee, hee...check them out.

There ya go...I love ya all...they have basically become daily reads lately. Who knows, I might even add you to my blogroll! *winks*

Any other interesting blogs out there I should be reading??? Lemme know.

Bloggerwave

I have been doing the paid posts for a while now...tried out this company and then that company. Some of them I like better than others. Some have a better site and are easier to use. Some have better opps that I really enjoy writing. Some have really great customer service. Some have it all. Well, I am giving another company a shot. This company is called Bloggerwave. They work much like the other companies...you sign up, register your blog and then once it is accepted, you start blogging about different opportunities. The pay range seems pretty decent, considering what I get paid at the other places...and they have some opps that I haven't seen at any of the other places.

So, if paid posts are your thing...check them out! *winks*

the complete heebie jeebies!

I was reading on the internet last night...yes, on my new LAPTOP...and came across this story. Just reading it made me panicked. *shudders* For those of you who are too lazy to click on the link...it's a story about spiders in Texas who made a huge spider web which scans over 200 yards. They say that some people are visiting and some people are staying very far away. I would be one of those people...who wouldn't get near that place if you paid me. They also say that you can hear the screeching of the mosquitoes who are all caught in the webs. Eww....ewwww....ewwww!!!!!!!!!!

I am afraid of spiders...I'll admit it. I find them tricky and just plain mean. And don't bother telling me how good they are...and that they eat bugs that are real pests, etc. I've heard it before....still terrified.

So...the idea of possibly millions of spiders working together to make a HUGE spiderweb. I am sorry...that's just chuck full of creep. I think they are starting their plan of taking over the world....and of course, they'd start in Texas...evil, evil Texas.

*shudders* Evil, evil spiders.

I need all the self-help I can get!

I have read a lot of self-help books in my time. I am always interested in reading someone else's advice on how to make changes in my life. I've read retirement books, financial books, weight loss books, self esteem books....the list goes on and on. There is a new book for women out. Well, actually...it's not that new. It's been on the best seller's list for ever and it's now in its 5th printing. It's called "Inside Every Woman: Using the 10 Strengths You Didn't Know You Had to Get the Career and Life You Want Now" by Vickie Milazzo. If you go to the website, you can read the first chapter for free. I think that is so cool. I have often thought a book would be super duper cool, but once I got it...I realized it just wasn't the right book for me.

I took a quick read and it had me intrigued. Part of the free chapter talks about the promises that we, as women, should make to ourselves in our lives and especially business. One that really struck home is #2: "I will go for it or reject it outright." That just makes so much sense to me. I know so many people that half do something. I know I have done it. Going at something halfway...seems to give me an out if it doesn't workout. I can tell myself...it's ok, I didn't really want it anyway. Well, that may be well and good, but it's the coward's way to do things. So...cheer, cheer to Vickie Milazzo. It's definitely something I should be applying in my life. Hey, if I fail...at least I know I gave it 100%.

So, check it out. I think I am going to see if my library has the book and if not, you could always buy it on amazon.

Thursday Thirteen #36

Thirteen Things That Make Shelley Happy! I haven't done a TT in a while....ooops...my bad! So, I came back with a vengeance and decided to post 13 things that are currently making me happy. :) 1. Obviously, I got my new laptop yesterday and that makes me all kinds of crazy happy. I kept powering it up, playing with it, deciding I was done...powering it down...only to decide that I must continue playing with it and powering it back up again. It's awesome...and I love my new toy. Next objective, moving everything that I want from the old computer to the new computer. whoo hoo! 2. I got paid today. I love pay days...they bring me joy, but this one bring me extra joy. I got paid three times this month, so this paycheck seems like extra free money. 3. I used the extra paycheck to pay for the computer I just got. So, not only did I get a new, swanky computer, but I don't really feel like my pocketbook got squeezed doing it. 4. The radio right now is playing John Mayer "Waiting On The World To Change." I love this song...so therefore, happy. It's interesting that when the radio plays a song I like, it makes me so much happier than if I just threw it into the CD player. It's almost like the radio station knew that I loved that song, etc. 5. I am going to Maine not this weekend, but next weekend. It'll be the beginning of my vacation. I am going with my dad and we are meeting up with one of my uncles and maybe one of my other uncles is coming as well. It should be a really good time. 6. Did I mention my new computer and the joy it brings me??? No? Well...it makes me happy. 7. I am happy that the week is almost over. I have been exhausted all week long. I have almost called in sick every day...just because I was so tired when I woke up. I am looking forward to the long weekend and lots of relaxing. 8. Oh yeah...I am happy that Monday is a holiday! I don't have any big plans, but I love holidays! 9. And because I usually get Mondays off from work, I get extra time off. I get Monday off work...like everyone else, but I also get a half day on Wednesday too. So, next week seems like a super short week. 10. And...the week after Labor Day, I am on VACATION. I'll admit it, I kind of feel like I am already in vacation mode. I am so ready to have a whole week off. I am not going anywhere special really....getting stuff done around the apartment, taking little day trips. I like to have one week of my vacation be where I don't go anywhere...because when you go away, you end up coming back to work more tired than when you left. 11. The radio is now playing Green Day. I love Green Day. This makes me happy. 12. I paid bills this morning. I know I have mentioned this before...and people think I am weird or deranged or what not, but I get such happiness of logging on and paying all my bills. It's a control issue...but well, I guess it's better than those people who are so afraid of bills and getting late notices all the time. I woke up this morning...and before I even thought about getting dressed or breakfast, I booted up the computer (the old one)...and paid all the bills coming up in the next two weeks. Rock on! 13. Just in case you didn't know, I got a new computer...and it brings me happiness and joy.

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TA DA!

Yep, that's right folks...I am typing this message from my new LAPTOP!

I am the owner of a swanky, new awesomely awesome LAPTOP!

I know you are jealous...I would be too!

P.S. I totally learned how to make text blink today....I stole it from Y's blog. Now if only I could steal all her daily visitors.

almost in my hot little hands!

So...my dad called me at work today and told me that when he got home from work, he had a message that someone tried to deliver something. And that something...was my computer. No one was home, so they didn't leave it...but they are going to try again tomorrow. Luckily, my dad will be able to be there...so he can get it from them. whoo hoo! I knew there was a good reason why I had it sent to my daddy's house.

So, if all goes well...I should have my computer in my hot little hands tomorrow. Which, all in all...is pretty awesome because the Dell website said it wasn't expected to ship until the 2nd week in September. It's not even Sept 1st yet...and they tried to deliver it already.

So, if Dell ever asks you if you want to pay more for express shipping...say no...cause you will get it around the same time anyways.

Yippeee!!!! Can you tell I am excited???

bizarro

The new people who live in my building are just weird. They moved in a couple of months ago. A couple lives over there...and maybe another guy, I'm not sure.

Here is an example of why they are just weird...watching them today. The couple came out at about 12:30pm. The girl brought some garbage over to the dumpster and then came back to the car. The guy took his shirt off, kept talking to her. Then, they both got into the car, she started it up and they put their seatbelts on. Are they getting ready to drive away and maybe do something fun with their Saturday? Nope, they sit there with their seatbelts on in their car and do nothing but talk for 30 minutes. Finally, after a half an hour...he gets out of the car and goes back up into the apartment. She stays in the car and then puts the car radio on...very loud. She listens to music for about 20 minutes...and then boyfriend comes back, still sans shirt, and he gets back into the car. She starts up the car, they sit there for another 10 minutes and then she drives away.

Huh? Is that bizarroland to anyone else???

treatment and consequences!

As most people know, my job revolves around the criminal justice system and alcohol and substance abuse. Basically, if someone has broken the law and their addiction was a factor in that case, I do an assessment and if appropriate make a recommendation for treatment. Sometimes it is people doing outpatient treatment and then maybe getting probation or electronic monitoring. Sometimes it is people getting released from jail right into an drug rehab program, usually a 28 day stint. Sometimes it involves someone doing a long term inpatient and then getting involved in a intensive program like drug court.

It all really depends...on so many different things. It depends on their level of addiction and how severely it has impacted their lives. It depends on their criminal history and their likelihood to re-offend. It depends on their motivation for recovery, etc. There are so many different factors and treatment options. The one thing I have learned is that there isn't a cookie cutter way of doing this. Each person's treatment recommendation and plan looks different because what might work for person A is not the same thing that would work for person B.

I was talking to some people at work on Friday about the Lindsey Lohan nightmare and her plea deal. I don't wish bad things for her...really, I don't. But, I am saddened to see that she really isn't getting any consequences for her actions. I am glad she is in drug rehab again, but I am not sure if that will be enough for her. I mean, she got charged with SEVEN misdemeanor charges (and could have been charged with 2 felonies as well). She got charged with all that and she ends up with a plea deal including ONE day in jail, 10 days community service and completing a drug treatment program. I am happy she is being forced to complete treatment, but I also think she is being shielded from the consequences of her actions. I know if Joe Shmoe off the streets got arrested with her charges, he wouldn't be walking out with a deal like that. And, I also know that if people don't face the consequences...it makes recovery SO much harder. The excuses become easier. There is a reason why people usually have to hit rock bottom. Rock bottom gives you that extra shot of motivation to actually make recovery work.

Anyways, enough complaining about Lindsey. I think her court deal is unfair, but I also worry that this isn't the last we will see of her legal and addiction problems. I hope her family and people around her wake up and really do something to help her. My advice to anyone out there who knows someone suffering from addiction: Get them help and don't hide the consequences from them. It may seem mean, but in the long run it's probably the kindest thing you can do.

I bought it...and can't wait to get it!

I ordered my new computer...I thought about it, had my brother check it out, thought about it some more...and then I decided enough thinking and I called Dell.

I called Dell because I was hell bent that I wanted Windows XP on my computer instead of Vista. Vista just hasn't been out long enough for the bugs to be worked out, plus...I don't really know all the ins and out of it...and I am very comfortable with XP.

So, I called Dell and asked about XP...and the nice woman stated that I could get XP, so I went ahead and ordered it. I got a Dell Inspiron 1501. It's one of their lower level laptops, but it works exactly for what I want. I upgraded a few different things...and got it super cheap, for just a smidge over $600.

It's got a dual processor...a cd/dvd burner...120 GB hard drive...1GB DDR2 SDRAM at 533MHz Memory. I am pretty happy with the price and the bells and whistles I was able to add. It won't be the snazziest computer ever made, but well...it will be just right for me.

And for the price...I feel like I am getting a steal!

a really good cause....

As my loyal readers know, I have been doing paid posts for the last few months. I can say without any hesitation that this is the best paid post I have ever had the honor to do. It's something that has such value...and something I believe so strongly in.

This post is sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association and it is about their national fundraising walks going on. I am a huge fan of fundraising walks. I have done the diabetes walks, cancer walks, homeless awareness walks, etc. I like them for a few reasons. I like them because they allow people to raise money for a good cause, obviously. I also like them because it allows the fundraiser to also be doing something productive for the cause while raising money. I always feel a little bit uncomfortable asking people for money, but asking them for money and committing to a walk just seems like a great balance. And I also like them because the walk brings you together with other people that care about a common cause.

Alzheimer's is a disease that just rips my heart to shreds. I can't imagine losing your memories...not knowing the people you love, not knowing what is going on around you. One of my friends is working in an assisted living facility and when she got her assignment, she was hoping for the dementia unit. I had such respect for her because I don't think I could work on that unit. I think I would get overwhelmed by their and my frustration. Plus, the pain of watching the loved ones watching their family member disappearing right in front of their eyes. Ahh...it breaks my heart just thinking about it.

The fundraising walk for the Alzheimer's Association is called the Memory Walk. There are over 600 walks going on all over the country this fall. So...if you want to support the cause, head on over to their website and sign up. You can search their site by zipcode and it will tell you where the nearest walk event is to you. You can sign up by yourself or you can sign up as a team leader. My roommate was a team leader for a cancer awareness walk and she seemed to have a lot of fun doing it.

So, SIGN UP TO WALK! SIGN UP TO BE A TEAM CAPTAIN! And sign up early...because the earlier you sign up, the more people you can get to join and the more money you can raise for a great cause. Since the Memory Walks started in 1989, they have raised over 225 million. Sign up and help the cause!

time for some new digs!

So, in the last year or so...I have really been waffling between wanting to buy a new computer and not wanting to. Well, that's a lie...I have always thought I wanted a new computer, I just didn't want to spend the money right now.

I am starting to REALLY lean towards getting a new one. I like my old one, it's nice...it plays well with others, but it's starting to show its age. It has a small hard drive (20 GB) and not enough memory...so sometimes that becomes a problem. And it has never played media well.

So...I am seriously looking at a laptop. I have always had a desktop, but if I am going to buy a new computer, it is definitely going to be a laptop. One, they can go anywhere...and two, I could use it for presentations and stuff like that, for work. Plus..one of the main attractions, I can use the laptop while lounging on the couch watching TV...which is flippin' sweet. And now...they are truly affordable. I was looking at one...which I am pretty sure I am going to buy...and it was $600...and that comes with a dual processor and a huge hard drive...and a DVD burner, etc. I can remember when laptops were around the $2000.

I emailed my brother the specs...and he said it looked pretty good. So, I am going to call the peeps....and if they will give me Windows XP on the computer instead of Vista (don't like Vista...haven't heard good things about it)...I am going to order it. I get paid 3 times this month, so if any time seems perfect...this is it.

Soon...I am going to be wifi crazy all over the place. *winks*

P.S. I am still going to keep my old computer...and keep it networked into my system, but it will mainly become the backup computer instead of the "I use it everyday" computer.

I want to go on a fun and exciting vacation!

I am going on vacation in a few weeks, but I am not doing anything exciting AT ALL. I am taking the week to get the apartment in order (it is getting messier by the day) and just get some much needed STUFF done. It's important and I am glad I am going to have the whole week to do it, but I want to be doing something exciting with my time off. I want to be like the people really travels on their vacation...who go to the Bahamas...or who go on a cruise. I'd love being on a cruise for a week...as long as I didn't get food poisoning.


Let's see...my cousin is leaving for New Zealand at the end of this month to study abroad for a semester. I wish I could take my week of vacation and visit her. My other cousin has been in Norway for a month or more and I wish I could take some time and go and visit her as well.

And of course, I have always wanted to go to Ireland. I'm a super pale, freckled red head, so I just think that going to Ireland would be like going to the mother ship.

Someday, someday...this vacation, I will be lucky if I make it to Vermont or Maine for small day trips. *shrugs*

I hate you Blockbuster!

Months ago...when I signed up for Blockbuster's Total Access movie program...I wrote a post just saying how wonderful and great it was. I recommended it to family...friends...anyone who wanted to know and probably some who didn't.

Well, Blockbuster and I are officially not friends anymore...and I won't be recommending them to people anymore. Netflix is the shiznit people!!!

Why am I so cranky? Well...when I first signed up, their prices were basically the same as Netflix's, but you got the extra benefits and perks. You got to exchange the online movies in for movies at the store...and because you checked them in at the store, you got your movies sent to you faster. It sounded like the best of both worlds.

And then they sent me an email on Friday or whenever...and made me chuck full of crankiness. They said that their rates would be increasing and that they were making new types of plans. If you wanted to be able to exchange all your movies at the video store....then the price was going WAY up. If not, you could keep your current pricing tier, but you can only exchange a few movies a month. Or you could go online only. They said they did this...in response to a snarky email I sent them in order to more meet their customers needs.
Since when is charging people over 40%more meeting their needs?
Since when is charging people the same amount but taking away something you used to provide meeting their needs?

It's bullshit...and it's just showing that Blockbuster are greedy, slimey bastards.

It's a shame too...because in the beginning, I thought that Blockbuster had it going on. I thought they were going to be able to beat Netflix out. But now...I am pretty sure I am going back to Netflix. I might not get the free rentals, but at least I know that my rates aren't going to get hijacked again. Because unlike Blockbuster....when I have been with Netflix...the prices did change once, they went LOWER. That's right people...lower. When I first signed up for Netflix back in the day...3 movies out at a time cost $21.99 a month. And then 3 months later, they lowered their prices to $17.99 a month....and they have stayed at that rate since then.

So...Blockbuster...I officially hate you and your evilness. And now I plan on going back to Netflix. I feel like that girl who breaks up with her awesome boyfriend to date a complete schmo...and then realized he is a schmo...and goes back to that staple old boyfriend. Sorry Netflix...I never should have left you!

Thoof happens people!

There is a new website out there, Thoof.com...where normal people, like you and me...can post articles we found or even posts on our own blogs. So, we can read the news that our fellow bloggers found interesting instead of what the media circus thought we should be reading. It's like a personalized news service for the internet.

There are a few articles on there right now...which caught my interest. There is one about the 7 credit traps to avoid...another about 15 unfortunately placed ads and how it just made them ever so funny...one about Keira Knightley posing naked and the digital enhancement of her misquito bites. So...there is a little bit there for everyone.

I think the concept is really interesting and I am definitely going to put some of my blog posts up on there when I think it is something people might want to read. You can even install a ThoofRank Badge on the posts that you have put up there and it will tell you how many people are clicking through from Thoof to your site. So, in essence...it will tell you how popular your article is. Oh...and of course, the more popular an article is, the longer it stays up on the top of the front page.

So, find some interesting articles and get them all Thoofed up and ready to go!

it feels like monday!

I had yesterday off again...and didn't do much of anything. I have been slowly working on my bedroom. It's liveable, but it's cramped and messy. So, I have been going through stuff, throwing stuff away and trying to get the 8 tons of clothes I own under control.

I also want to change the furniture around in my room. I have my bed right in the middle of the room...and it looks nice, but it makes the room appear so much smaller. I have decided to shift everything around...but I am not looking forward to actually doing the project....mainly because I have to take everything out of the room in order to move things. So, I am organizing and what not...and then I will get to moving everything under the sun. I might do it next weekend or even save it for when I am on vacation.

So You Think You Can Dance Finale!

That's right...the finale was last night. Let me tell ya, I love the bejesus out of this show. I admit that I am somewhat of a reality show whore...I don't want to be, but I can't help myself. But, what I love about SYTYCD is that it is an actual competition show...where people don't win by scheming...they win by being a GREAT dancer, etc.

And yeah, I love the dancing too. I used to dance when I was a little kid. I took ballet, tap and jazz...and a little gymnastics too. I quit in like the 3rd or 4th grade. Why? Because dance class was on Thursday nights and well, I wanted to be home to watch The Cosby Show. I know...seems like a bad call, but at the time...I was convinced I was going to marry Theo Huxtable. lol That didn't work out all that well...maybe I should have stayed with dance.

Anyways...I have been watching SYTYCD each and every week. I think I wrote an earlier post about how much I loved the show and some of the dancers. The final four was Neil, Danny, Sabra and Lacey. All 4 were fabulous, so it really was anyone's guess on who was going to win.

Here is what I thought would happen:

Lacey: I am not a huge fan of her. She is Benji Schwimmer's sister, last year's winner. I think she's cute, but I don't think she's in the league of the other dancers. Having said that, I thought she was going to win. She seemed to have a really strong fan base, so I thought she would walk away with it.

Neil: I adore him. I call him "New Travis" and Travis was my favorite dancer from last year. He actually doesn't dance anything like Travis, but he has that same charm and presence. I think his dancing is amazing...and he melds dancing and acting really well. Plus, he's adorable. I didn't think he would win...his only shot for winning was all the swooning girls who would be voting OVER and OVER again.

Sabra: This little hottie has only been dancing for 4 years...and she is spectacular. She dances with such emotion...and is just a joy to watch. She's smart and sassy...and just enjoyable to watch. I thought she had a chance to win it...if Lacey didn't take it. And everyone heard Nigel say that he hoped a girl would win this year (a guy won both season 1 and 2).

Danny: Oh, I love Danny. I think he's the best dancer I have seen on the show...he's just amazing to watch. I liked him from the beginning...just because he is Travis Wall's adopted brother. I adored Travis so much last year that....it just carried over. But then I saw Danny dance. He is just amazing. He has techical skills that no one could touch on that stage. When Danny did him solo dance on Wednesday...he got a standing ovation from the audience and the judges. He is breathtaking to watch. But...I didn't think he could win. He had a rough beginning. People didn't connect with him...they saw him as arrogant, etc. So, I worried he would go out of the Top 4 competition first...and that saddened me since talent above everything else should be rewarded.

So...what happened in the finale????

Lacey went out first. It seems cruel, but I was so happy about that. I just think she wasn't in the same league, so I think America got it right.

Next was Neil to go...and it left Danny and Sabra.

I couldn't be happier. I love them both...and would be happy if either won. I wanted Danny to win a little more, but it was like a 51/49 split. When the show host was waiting to say who won...I was excited because they both deserved it.

And who won???



SABRA! That little spit fire won the show....with that pretty and humble smile of hers. I can't wait to see what she is going to do with her career. She's just brilliant.

And as for Danny...we know he will do great things...he's got so much talent, how can he not?

fortune cookies!

Do you love Chinese food as much as I do? It's one of my favs when ordering take out.

There a couple reasons why I love chinese food. One, it's quite vegetarian friendly...with the rice and steamed veggies and veggie lo mein and veggie egg rolls. Mmmm...I am getting hungry just typing it. And two, it can be healthy if you order the right things. Don't get me wrong...it can be downright unhealthy too. It's all about selection.

I am always looking for a new, great Chinese food place. There is this new database which lists Chinese Food Restaurants in a little directory. You can search by state and then by city. I was able to find my favorite Chinese food restaurant when I lived in Indianapolis...oh lord, I miss their Veggie Delight Platter.

You can also look at chinese places internationally. I do wonder how different chinese food is...let's say in the UK, etc. Of course, they don't have China listed, but well...we all know that American Chinese and actual Chinese food are pretty different.

Mmmm...just thinking about this makes me hungry. A co-worker oftens orders chinese for lunch, so I will have to see if she wants to order with me.

P.S. Since I am talking about chinese food...I do have a horribly funny story of my roommate falling down the stairs and her chinese food breaking her fall. But well, another time...but it's funny people! FUNNY!

my heart is broken just a little...

I woke up this morning and was watching the local news...and heard about the news story of 3 of the rescue workers in Utah were killed trying to get to those 6 miners. There is an article about it here.

As of right now, 6 people have been injured and 3 were killed when a second cave fell in during the rescue effort. I feel for the families and friends of the 6 miners who are still in there...and that rescue efforts have been halted because of the new tragedy. I feel for the families of the 3 people who have died trying to save the lives of the 6 inside. There is some kind of hero...someone who knowingly puts their life on the line in order to save someone else's life. That takes so much strength and guts. I respect those people so so much.

We don't know if the miners in there are still alive...and if anyone can safely get to them...and get to them in time.

My thoughts and prayers are with all those involved.

first free day!

Yesterday was such a beautiful day to have the day off. It was sunny and warm, but not too hot. I didn't have a lot of plans, but that's kind of the point. I woke up early...watched a movie...and then had lunch with 2 friends. It was nice to be out and about on a workday and just doing my own thing. We ended up going to Friendly's...I have a friend who loves the place. I had a nice grilled cheese sandwich and some fries. Mmm...yummy.

And then I ran some errands...went to the video store...went to the library...and then headed home to get ready to go to the dentist. Aurgh...I hate the dentist. Actually, I take that back...I very much like my dentist, I am just afraid of all dentists. He's so aware of this too because he always asks me if I am doing okay...and what my anxiety level is whenever he comes into the room. I had to have my tooth that had a root canal done looked at. He said it was starting to get infected, so he had to get down there and look at it. He said it would probably be fine, but he did mention that if the tooth was cracked or whatever, it might need to be removed. I was not to happy to hear that. My teeth aren't the best in the world, but I would like to keep em, ya know? Well...he looked at the root canal and it looked okay, so he just need to make sure the infection goes away and...phew! He basically inferred that my last dentist might not have done it right, so he is going to make sure it is done right this time. I might just start not being scared of him...oh wait...not yet. I still am panicked in fear when I just think the word dentist. Eeek!

And after my dentist appt...I just hung out at home, made some dinner, watched some crap tv. So basically that's the recap of my free Monday.

Bring the whole family...

There are so many movies coming out this summer. It does seem like the summer of movies. I have been tempted to go to the actual theatre numerous times...when usually I always wait for things to come out on DVD.

There have been a lot of movies, but there have been a lot of scary movies and action movies, etc. There haven't been a ton of family movies this summer. I mean, there was that one cartoon, but than that...there isn't a lot of stuff I would feel comfortable bringing the whole family to.

There is a movie which is opening on August 24th which is friendly to all members of the family. It's called Eye of the Dolphin.



The movie is about a troubled girl from Los Angeles who is expelled from school and then has to live with her father, who is s dolphin research scientist. He only has his eyes on work and doesn't have time for an out of control daughter. The only solace that she finds is a friendship with one of the wild dolphins on the island. It reminds me a lot of Free Willy. It definitely seems like one of those feel good movies I can remember seeing when I was a kid. If you wanna know more, check out the
Eye of the Dolphin movie trailer.

Free Monday!

Today is my first Monday where I am off work. Let me tell you, it's awesome...for a couple of reasons. One, I went to the racetrack with my dad yesterday...and if I didn't have today off, I know I would have been completely wiped out. And two, I am going to have lunch with some of my friends today...they work the second and night shift. So, having the day off makes it so we can actually make plans.

ooh...more about the track. I have never been to the horse track before, even though we only live about 15 minutes from it. I am not much of a gambler and I like my dollars to stay in my pocket and all. But...it was my dad's company's corporate day at the track. So, I bet on some races...and all in all...did OK. I think I came up about 13 dollars ahead, which is better than being 13 dollars in the hole. Plus, I had one race where my horse 'Wish Me Success' wasn't even in consideration...but then at the last second, she shot out of no where and won the race. It was pretty cool.

And...we did get free chairs at the track. I don't really want them, so I am trying to sell them on ebay, but there are a bajillion on there, so I don't know if they will sell.

Oooh...and I watched Are We Done Yet? this morning...on my DAY OFF. I really liked Are We There Yet?....so I hoped I would like the second one. All in all...not really. To me, it seems like someone spent a weekend watching Money Pit and Funny Farm and decided to steal all the funny parts of that movie and do it again with Ice Cube. It was funny...but then again, the originals were funnier.

Alright...off to shower and then to a nice lunch...and then...gulp...to the dentist. *pouts*

Freez the pain away!

Sometimes I am a working out fool. Well, I used to be a working out fool. Sadly, I have been a working out sap lately. This week, I have been doing some cardio and weight lifting.

Well...my body has been punishing me for thinking that I could still do everything with the same intensity. I did my weight lifting routine on Tuesday night and well, I woke up on Wednesday hurting. Basically...all the muscles that I own hurt. And what hurt the most, is the right side of my neck. You know the spot...where the neck and the shoulder blade meet. It just aches. Every time I move my shoulder. Ouch. Every time I move my neck. Ouch. I had to help a co-worker move some boxes today and I thought my neck was going to actually break and FALL OFF.

So, what did I do to make it feel better? One, I complained a lot. That's always helps. Two, I made some yummy dinner. Yep, helps. Three, I ate some Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. If yummy dinner won't help...ice cream definitely will. And then I got just a smidge practical. I put some Freeze It on the back of my neck. At first, I wasn't so sure. One, I have found pain reliever stuff to be smelly. I don't like smelly. Two, it is blue so I was afraid of it staining the back of my shirt. And three, I wasn't sure the goo would actually work.

Well...it's either the ice cream or this stuff works! My neck is still sore, but feels so much better. Let's go through the things I was concerned about. One, it wasn't smelly...or at least bad smelly. It has menthol in it, so it has a nice, clean smell to it. I don't feel like I smell like a medicine cabinet. Two, I was afraid it would stain. Yes, it is blue...but it doesn't stain your skin or your shirt. I got some on the collar of my shirt and it doesn't look like I am part smurf. Three, it does work and it didn't cost me an arm and a leg....or need a prescription.

I think I am going to bring this stuff to work for when we have to do community service. We always come back to the office chuck full of aches and pains. It'll definitely be an awesome addition to our first aid kit.


You know, I think I love this Freez It stuff so much....I might marry it. *giggles*

new work schedule

Today was the first day that I worked the new, summer schedule. What is this new summer schedule? Well...it's flippin' sweet. I work longer days, but work 4 days and get 3 days off. Some of my co-workers have been doing this for weeks, but I just started today. I wanted to take Mondays off and I was teaching a class at work on Mondays. This Monday was our last class, so I started working the new shift.

I think I am really going to like it. The only downside...is working later Tues-Fri. I didn't leave work today until almost 5:30pm. But then again...when I am sleeping in on Monday mornings, I think it will be totally worth it.

Flippin' sweet man...flippin' sweet!

it's nice to remember a place that changed your life!

When I was in college, we used to have an ASB (Alternative Spring Break) program which sent students to help in needed communities instead of taking your standard drunken spring break. Each year, I went to the Washington DC trip. Most people switched around where they went, but I just fell in love with DC after my first year.

We would meet with senators and such...and work at a bunch of community organizations. The main place we volunteered was a place called So Others Might Eat (SOME). Their mission statement is: Restoring dignity and hope one person at a time. They provide comprehensive services to the homeless. They have a large soup kitchen where they serve breakfast and lunch daily. They also provide medical services, including dental. They have many of the dental schools having their students work there, so they get amazing care. They provide mental health and substance abuse counseling. They also do a lot of crisis work...helping people sign up for services, getting identification that they need, etc. And of course, they provide shelter and transitional housing. We mainly worked in the soup kitchen, but I can remember being truly amazed at what they had to offer.

Working at SOME...and seeing the issue of hunger and homelessness right in front of my face was a life changing experience for me. At that time, I thought I was going to school to be a teacher. By the time I returned from ASB, my focus was already shifting. I knew what work needed to be done and that I could be part of that. I started to see myself in the social worker role for the first time during that first week at SOME. I saw such a need, but I also saw what compassion and respect the workers at SOME had. I have said this before and I will say it again, I truly felt at home while volunteering with them. I have been an annual donator to their organization and will continue to be.

If you are ever taking a trip to DC, give them a call and volunteer for a couple of hours. It's an amazing place that truly shaped who I am...and what I do.

The post was sponsored by Navtej Kohli. He's a philanthropist and a business owner. I happen to think he's awesome. He chose to pay people to write posts about their favorite charities and that is just too cool. I don't know many people who would do that. I loved the opportunity to write about my experiences with SOME...so Navtej, thanks!!! And because I think he deserves some mad linky love, read about him here and here and here.

cake, cake...everywhere!

I think someone might be trying to kill me...with cake. We have had cake at work almost everyday this week. We had a birthday yesterday and today...and tomorrow, we are having another cake for a new employee who just had their birthday.

I enjoy cake. Cake is yummy...but I think if I eat one more piece of cake, I might go into to a constant state of sugar shock.

I am going to try to avoid the cake tomorrow, but I am not sure if I am going to be successful.

What the thoof???

So, there is a new website out there called Thoof. It's a site where normal, average people can submit articles and then you can either click on it, which means you think it is cool or interesting...or not click on it and let the article die a lonely and depressing death. And, if you submit something to Thoof, you can put a Thoof PageRank on your article and it will tell you how you are doing in comparison to other people's articles on the site. It's kind of like a popularity contest on the net.

Now...why would a website name itself Thoof? It's left me wondering and here what my mind comes up with. I think that some crazy internet designers and hackers got together and wanted to make a site where people could submit their own stories, etc. They were so sick and tired of the media elite deciding what news is and is not important. They were sick of watching the news each night and not seeing anything that mattered to them. And, as time went on, they found that the internet was spoon feeding them just like the nightly news. These internet boys had enough and so, they decided a new location must be created...where people can come and share their news with the internet world. They decided they were going to call their website the "Truth" because it would be wear everyone could tell the honest to goodness truth. Only one problem...when they were registering for the website, they did it by phone (there was a great deal...almost made it free!). But, the guy giving the information had one hell of a LISP...so he said, I want the site to be www.truth.com and all the woman heard on the other end of the phone was www.thoof.com. When they got the website registration in the mail...they saw it was not what they wanted, but it made them laugh their little internet heads off. So, they decided to keep it. And, it was their own inside joke. The truth is told at the internet on thoof.com. LOL

Too funny, but seriously...if you want to read real, personalized news on the internet...it's the place to do it!

Auntie Em...Auntie Em!

There was a freaking tornado in Brooklyn yesterday. That is just ridiculous. They said it was a F2 tornado, which means the winds were between 111 and 135 miles per hour. There were trees uprooted...roofs taken off.

You know, when I lived in Indiana...there would be tornados from time to time. Since I am from the east coast, I was always timidly amazed by them. They are such powerful creatures....and we never usually have them around here. The news report said that there hasn't been a tornado in that area since 1889....so, yeah...I guess it would be a rarity.

The morning news also said that there is more extreme weather (flooding, drought, fires, tornados, tropical storms) than usual...and it is the beginning signs of global warming. Hmmm, I wonder what will have to happen before people will stop thinking that we have made this whole global warming thing up???

trick or treat!

I am a complete movie buff...love them! I worked at a video store for 2 years, not because I needed the money, but because I loved the free movie perks.

I am usually not a huge fan of the scary, horror movies...but I still watch them. I have watched Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Ring. But in all honesty, if I am going to watch a scary movie, I love the old school scary movies like "Nightmare on Elm Street", "Friday the 13th" and of course, "Halloween."


There is a new version of Halloween the movie coming out on August 31st by Rob Zombie. I wonder if this movie will seem old school or will it seem too new. Do people know who Rob Zombie is? He wrote "House of 1000 Corpses" and "The Devil's Rejects." Now...I have seen "The Devil's Rejects" and that was one bloody and intense movie. So, I don't think that the new Halloween movie will be lacking in intensity, bloodshed and scream out of your seats horror.

And if you don't believe me that it will be scary...check out the trailer:



Now, if only Jamie Lee Curtis could be in it. I just think she should be in all Halloween movies. Scary movies...well, they scare me. But, I think I will see it...when it comes out on video. I am too much of a wimp to see a scary movie in the theatre and have myself screaming with a hundred complete strangers. But if you are braver than I am, check it out on August 31st!

It doesn't feel like Wednesday!

This week...it feels like is has taken forever. Work has been pretty busy, so it feels like I have done much more work this week than just a couple days worth. Now, I know I get down time at my job too...so I am just praying for some of that down time to come my way.

I'm going on vacation in a few weeks so if nothing else, I will get some down time then. I am not going to do much for the week...clean the apartment, do some shopping, get some rest, and a lot of nothing.

Okay...back to the grind...the busy grind!

gotta look for the deal everywhere!

I said in my last entry that not only am I cheap, but so is my dad. We are always looking for deals. When my dad is buying anything, he looks at the unit price of something and always buys whatever has the least unit price. And, I would admit I am the same. Actually, I am really proud of my penny pinching ways.

One of the best ways to save money is to buy things online. An example is when I wanted to by some DVD-Rs...I went to Wal-Mart and Target, etc...and then I went online and found them for about half price. So, I ordered it online and even got free shipping.

Another way to save online is to use coupon codes. Stuff is often already cheaper on the internet and then when you save even more, who could turn it down? Coupon Chief has tons of places where you can save money. My favorite store, Target, will give you $5 off if you spend 50 bucks. And...I have been researching computers lately. I am not nearly ready to buy, but I did see that they have a bunch of coupons for hundreds off a new computer.

So, if you like savings money...check them out!! And if you don't like money...well, then you are crazy!

I am not 12 years old!!!

Okay, so my dad wanted to do a little shopping last night and asked me to go along. I am a nice kid...and of course, his favorite and only daughter....so I went along. We went to Devil-Mart to buy some stuff he needed for his painting project and a few groceries.

All was good...until Dad decided that he wanted to get some beer. He selected the beer....bought the cheapest kind they had. (Hey, I had to get my cheap gene from someone, mkay?). We bought some other items and made our way up to the check out.

We are checking out...and when my dad puts the beer up there, the guy looks at me and says, "I can't sell you two the beer until I see your ID." I didn't plan on buying anything, so I didn't have my ID with me...it was in my car back at the house. So, I said..."I don't have my ID, but then again...I am TWENTY NINE years old!" He looks at me like he doesn't believe any of that and says to my dad..."Unless she walks away and I pretend she isn't in your party, I can't sell you the beer."

So...I walked away. But well, it's not the point. In 2 months and 2 days...I am going to be god damn THIRTY years old. The guy said to my dad when I was away that since I didn't look 21, he couldn't sell to me. Please...I know I look young, but that's just ridiculous.

*grumbles, grumbles*

Are You SuperBad????

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love movies. I am a complete movie junkie. I am constantly watching movies on DVD...and every once in a while going to the theatre. I probably watch hundreds of movies a year. For the past couple of weeks, I have been seeing trailers for the new movie, Superbad. One of the stars is Michael Cera, who I LOVED when he was in Arrested Development. Just because of that...I want to see this movie. It also looks pretty funny. I imagine it is going to be a lot of slap stick humor, but from someone who loves movies like Old School, I am okay with that. The plot of the movies is basically that there are these two lifelong friends who have always had each other's back in high school, but now they are going to seperate colleges. Well, before they part ways, they decide to have the bigger graduation party ever in hopes of reversing their lifelong losing streak and changing them from the "geeks" to "studs." Of course...nothing goes as planned. It looks silly, but Superbad also looks like it might be stupid enough to be absolutely hilarious.

Check out some clips from the movie and see if you think it is funny as I hope it is. There is also a clip over on YouTube's main page, so check that out too.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot the most important thing...the movie comes out in theatres on August 17th. I am not sure if I will see it in theatres, but I KNOW I will be watching it on DVD.