My Aunties Panties

Not-so-happy Reunion...

2011-08-08T15:37:00.000-07:00

I've been stewing over something for a good while and have now decided to hash it out.

Recently, I've had a couple exchanges with people that I knew in high school that have left a bitter taste in my mouth. With the advent of social networking/stalking, it has become en vogue to "befriend" all of your long lost classmates. Often times, this is a positive and even life changing experience. However, what several people fail to remember is that high school was literally a lifetime ago. I've lived twice as long as I had then. I've learned more, grown more and in general am no longer that awkward, uncomfortable in my skin, acne faced and angsty teenager. Why then, do they insist on "commenting" on my page as if I am still that person and actually being quite rude about it.
Yes, I was loud and used it as a way to cover my confusion or fear. Yes, I was a smartass, it was all I knew to do to keep from crying. Some of that may still be true, but I am not the same person I was. At least I don't think I am.
What concerns me too is that my "legacy" seems to be one that has left a bitter taste in the mouth's of others. I'm afraid I'm not remembered well. Was I really all that much of a bitch? Did I treat others with the derision I feel now? Is this a case of revenge of the slighted 20 years later?
I was never one of the popular kids. I wasn't a cheerleader or jock. I wasn't class president or even a particularly brilliant student. I was just me. Apparently who I was wasn't so great.
I know I 'm not who I was, and that I am still trying to figure out who I will be, but who I am is a person, with insecurities, hopes, dreams, fears and feelings. I know I am a good person. I am a kind person. I know who I am, kind of.
I am sad that people still judge me by what they thought they knew of me... I guess all I can do is try not to judge them as I remember them but embrace them as I see them.
I hope I can do this because I'm not done growing and changing. Who knows what or who I'll be if I live another lifetime... probably old and cranky, but with one hell of a sense of humor. (I hope)

Is it really THAT hard?

2011-06-28T12:03:00.000-07:00

I've now experienced my first sense of discrimination based on my daughters diabetes. Can I just say this is BULLSH!T??
A gut reaction, clearly motivated by fear and ignorance has made it difficult for me to find my children day care. Mention the word "Diabetic" and people start to close down. Instead of staying open and asking how they can help, I am given phrases like, "I'm not sure we can accommodate that". I'm sorry, did you just tell me that you are refusing to help my DAUGHTER WITH A SPECIAL NEED???? To be fair, I hate being told "No", always have, but this is crossing the line.
I'm trying to be open minded myself, and remember that they might not be aware of how a diabetic is cared for and that it CAN be done quite simply. However, why should I HAVE to fight for her to have a spot? WHY????? I shouldn't and, according to the laws of the State of California, I don't have to.
I am NOT a litigious person, but I was THIS close to calling up the American Diabetes Association and invoking the power of the Almighty Americans with Disabilities Act! This poor little Child Care would have been smashed like a bug.
I didn't do that and after an email exchange, a face to face conversation and SEVERAL stupid mix-ups and hoops, the kids DO have a place for day care for the 2 days a week I could get. But NO ONE, especially in this day and age, should have to go through this kind of thing- not because of skin color, gender or special need. It's beyond stupid.

Can you hear me now?

2011-03-08T22:55:00.000-08:00

Have you ever stopped to listen to the amount of noise that surrounds us everyday. So called, white noise. I think I may be hyper sensitive to the white noise. I am constantly telling the kids to stop make extras noises, just for the sake of noise. Don't get me started on the noises people make when they eat. Please, don't. Or the dogs, they make so much noise just breathing...
Why I bring this up is I think my home computer hates me. It's loud, stupid loud. The toilet might be in league with the 'pooter too. When is runs at a constant decible level that is beyond normal for any porcelain throne, I want to tear my hair out. The other day I tried to shut off the computer for some actual silence and it kept restarting. And, yes, I did turn off the power strip. The only thing I didn't so was physically rip the cord out of the wall, and it still drones on. Making the dreaded white noise.
In the living room, the X-box whines at me if I'm not using it. Drives me mad and when I do use it, I am amazed at how my ears sigh in relief once I turn it off. Now don't get me wrong, I am not a noise-nazi. I love my music and I love it loud (sometimes). My husband would argue the point, but he has pilot deafness and so I smile and nod my head and let him call me old. (IT's still too loud, dear)
I guess my point is, that I need some actual silence. Some time without man made white noise berating my ear drums. I want to just sit a hear what nature made. Relax in the sun and not be prodded by the phone ringing, email beeping, or any other of the multitude of artificial noises we surround ourselves with.
My ears are tired. And quite frankly, I'm tired of say "Huh?" all the time. Some people would be driven mad by the silence, but I think I'm ready for a little audio vacation. Bring on the ear muffs!!!

A New Year

2011-01-18T17:46:00.000-08:00

Two thousand and eleven. I will be 35 years old. More than half my life may have passed me by.

What have I done that is of merit in those 35 years? How will I be remembered? Who will wear red to my funeral? What kind of foods will be made in my name? Who will stand and speak of me and what will they say? What music will be played?

These are morbid questions and very egocentric, but they do make me pause a reflect.

Am I a person worthy of being remembered? Will I be worth remembering when my time comes. Life is so unpredictable that who knows when that time will be. That makes me think I should act and be the person that I want to be remembered at all times. That's hard. VERY HARD. STUPID HARD.

I have bad days (lots) I have lazy days. I have days where I'm not the best person I know or could be. What if that's how I'm remembered? For my bad days.

People tend to remember us for how we made them feel. Will I be remembered for making people feel good or bad? Feeling sad? Angry? How will they feel?

I want to be remembered as a good person, but that's not enough.

It's a new year and already it has not started on the best foot... I seem to trip myself up a lot. Is a new year really symbolic or just an excuse? Shouldn't we be a good person all the time; regardless of season or calendar? Yes, but I think the new calendar and new years gives us the impetus to try again, to begin again.

So here's to a new beginning... a new year... a new chance to be the person I want to be remembered for... and if it doesn't work out well there's always 2012... shit, doesn't the world end that year?? Best get my ducks in a row!

A Man Remembered...

2010-12-05T16:49:00.000-08:00

I some how thought that when the time came to write a eulogy for my father it would be easy. He was a man of so many facets there is easily so much I could say. But as I sat to the task- putting my butt in the chair and doing it, as he used to say, I found I was stymied.
What does one say about ones father?
How do I sum up his 62 years into little phrases and thoughts?
How do I express to you in 100 words or less what this man meant to me and to my family?
I don’t.
I can’t.
No one should be summed up into a Cliff Note’s of Life.

My father was an English major and Lawyer- he had a great command of the English language and was very expressive. I’m sure he could have written something that was humorous, emotional and eloquent.
Some of our fiercest arguments as I was growing up were over an English class or assignment. I always wrote too little for his taste. I needed more supporting facts or arguments.
I’ve never like writing, especially like he did. I think it was my one great rebellion.
What I find ironic is that now, when I want to write eloquently and paint a beautiful word picture about my father, I’m stuck.
I think perhaps he’d laugh at my conundrum.

My father was more than a father, he was my Papa. I know that is a somewhat dated phrase. None of my friends ever called their father that, but then again none of them were MY father.
To me he epitomized what it meant to be a Papa. He was a man out of a distant time. He wore a pocket watch, had a deep booming voice and a big beard, he seemed to me... larger than life.
My Granny used to say that Mama wasn’t older than Papa- she was just born first-
simply put, Papa was born old.
While occasionally, he seemed stuck in that distant past, his sense of honor, chivalry and ethics is something that seems sorely missing from society today.

Papa believed very strongly in the spirit of the law and in the fundamentals that form our constitution and country. He was like a modern Voltaire- He may not have agree with your opinion, but he’d defend your right to express it. (Unless you were a Yankee fan and then all bets were off.)
He taught me that if I wanted a voice in this Democracy I had to vote- I had to be informed. When I turned 18 and the first election rolled around we ALL went down to the polling place together. It was a BIG day in the Kenison household!
Sometimes, however, being the daughter of an attorney could be trying- you try arguing with him as a 16 year old girl- yeah good luck with that.
But now,in retrospect, I see that he was teaching me to use my mind, to be articulate and to be really good at twisting words around.
Most of you knew my father as that hard working attorney. He typically worked 6 days a week, while wearing his standard uniform- a suit and tie. But what you may not know is that he was always more at comfortable in Levis, a white crew neck and a blue button down oxford. In college, it was joked that he had a degree in the three Bs- Babes, Booze and Bridge, and not necessarily in that order. You could add a fourth B to his degree- Baseball. He sure did love his Damn Bums- other wise known as the Dodgers. Through thick and thin- really thin lately, he’d loyaly root, root, root for the Dodgers. Usually that involved some cussin and hollerin at the TV but he was loyal to a fault. He instilled that tragic love in me and growing up that was something we could always see eye to eye on. I will always treasure the games he took me to- just the two of us. We’d talk baseball and eat a Dodger dog- I feel lucky to have had the chance to spend time with my Papa, one on one and as and adult, add drinking a beer to that ritual.

My father loved many things in life, his Dodgers, his Jazz collection and his Scotch - but he loved nothing so much as my mother. She was a treasure to him and felt blessed to have her in his life every day. My mother could do no wrong and anything she wanted he’d try to give her. They showed me how a marriage should be: the give and take,the respect, the laughter, the joy and above all, the love. His one great wish in all of this calamity was that my mother not suffer.
My mother,
not him,
but my mother.
He didn’t want her to suffer through his decline. He loved her so much that he was willing to die for her and he was stubborn enough to do it too. It was his last great gift to her.

There are many great lessons my father taught me but none so profound as the dignity with which he faced his fate.

He knew he would die and knew how he would die.

Yet knowing all of that, he didn’t let it stop his adventuring spirit. After his diagnosis, we went on a roadtrip to Yellowstone National Park, I basically invited myself along well in actual fact I simply announced I was going.
We shared so many moments of beauty and awe along the way and for that...I will forever be grateful.
He didn’t let ALS stop him from trying to live life. Every last bit of it. Like his scotch, he consumed life right down to the last drop. He faced death on his own terms, and who am I to begrudge him that?

I am very lucky to have no unfinished business with Papa. He always said I could do what ever I put my mind to and was very supportive of my goals and dreams. I knew he was proud of me- he told me so. I knew that he loved me. The last words I shared with Papa 2 days before he died were I love you.
He said
I love you too kid.
There is very little else one can ask for.How blessed am I to have that memory and that gift? So very blessed.

Obviously there is a lot I didn’t say here about my father- We don’t have all day.
There are huge aspects of his life I have skipped over, including:
how he was shaped by his experiences as a young man in the 1960s,
how he was affected by the death of his sister at a young age,
his medical difficulties
and how he loved his kids and grandkids.
There is no way I can begin to tell you all about my Papa- it’s all about perspective anyway but please take the time to think about how you knew him and how he affected you. I’d be willing to bet there are some funny stories in those memories. He did have a wicked sense of humor and loved to laugh.
Not all of our memories will be humorous but as those memories begin to weave together I imagine the complex picture that will emerge of this man, friend, colleague, and husband, of my Papa will have many colorful threads of love, laughter, conviction, and integrity. He was a man of honor, my father and I am honored to have known him- I hope you were too.
Now cracks a noble heart:
Good night, sweet prince,
And flights of angles sing the to thy rest.

A Matter of Give and Take

2010-09-29T10:26:00.000-07:00

"They" say that people come into your life for a reason and a season. I find that concept interesting. When I look at the people that are a part of my life right now, I count myself very lucky to have few, if any, people that are solely "Takers". The kind of people that can take from you but rarely give; the people that sap your energy and spirit.
I believe that people are simultaneously Givers and Takers and they can effect each other differently. A Taker from me may be a Giver to you. i accept that this is life, this is human nature, but at the same time I worry. Am I a Taker? I know I am, I know I can be incredibly selfish, but is my Taker to Giver ratio askew? Am I a 60:40 or God forbid a 90:10?
Giving and taking can also be subjective. What if the person I think I am being a Giver to isn't open to receiving and it comes across as Taking? Is the intention of Giving enough to be a Giver? If no one is there to receive are you still giving?
Sometimes, in times of crisis we revert to being huge sponges; huge Takers. In order to survive we can no longer give of ourselves and must recede into an emotional shell. How do you cope with the need to take when forced into a care giving situation? When your loved one is ill and in need of your love and support and all you want to do is retreat into your pain?
At the same time, at what point does Giving become too much? When does it turn into a form of Taking? It can; it does. When you give so much of yourself that the person you are giving to becomes overwhelmed they can start to resent your giving. Then without realizing it, you've become a Taker. A Taker of the worst kind. You know, that whole "Road to hell..." proverb.
The problem with the OVER-Giver is that, eventually, they become so draining and so self-absorbed in their role as giver, that they no longer see the forest for the trees.
It is next to impossible to let an Over-Giver know that they have crossed the line without crushing their feelings. It's devastating to watch someone pour out their soul in giving and see all of the effort, love and pain turned away because it causes pain.
Life doesn't always make it easy to see the Givers and Takers at work. Nor does life make it easy for you to see your own Give/Take reflection. How we see ourselves may not be how we are seen by others.
I can only hope that those to whom I am giving will take with open arms and from those of whom I am taking are well enough to endure my need and in turn, one day, I may be free to give to them in their time of need.
It's all a matter of balance; of give and take.

And So, We Journey On...

2010-08-23T16:43:00.000-07:00

2 weeks after my sister died, we learned that my father might have ALS. This was devastating news on it's own, let alone on the heels of Suzie. It has since been confirmed that my father will have to battle an insane disease.
Life has contracted into minuets instead of years. In that spirit, Papa decided to make a Bucket-list. On that list was the desire to see the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Park.
I decided that I was going too. Life has become to short to wait. So... we went. We saw so many wonderful things, but my favorite memories will be the times with Papa. We laughed, we cried and we were honest. Nothing in the world will ever take away the joy I feel at having shared a journey and adventure with my father.
I grieve that there may not be any more trips. I grieve for the disappearing future. But I will take joy in the present, in his laugh, in his smiling eyes, how they soften with love at the mention of my children and I will find the joy yet to be lived in his life.
A large bonus from our trip was traveling with my brother. We have experienced so much together these last few weeks, but I am so grateful for the chance to know him as an adult and friend not just an older brother.
Papa, I love you and am proud you are my father. Logan, thank you for the laughs and for the shoulder to cry on.
As so, we journey on... into the known and the unknown and with laughter and love we will endure with grace and dignity.

Spirit in the Sky

2010-07-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

And shes gone...
Her journey was long,
Her burden was heavy,
Her smile was bright,
Her laugh was music,
She's gone...

The World Abides

2010-06-30T14:55:00.000-07:00

Life keeps moving on...
So I'll begin with the positive.

Abby is attending her first week of camp- DIABETIC camp. Where most everyone there is diabetic; the kids and counselor's . It's awesome. We went for what they call "Transition" camp, where the family stays for the weekend to see how the camp works and how they we be cared for. It is heartwarming to see a place where the kids are so happy and free and no stigma is attached. Diabetes is not something to be hidden and be seen as scary, it's a fact and it's normal. I am SO very happy she is able to attend and find friends.

School is now out for the school year and I am entering the hardest part of my year- summer. Sounds wrong doesn't it?!? But for me, I need a project to function and I don't think of cleaning as a project. I just don't. My mind needs to be engaged or I'm in trouble... Perhaps I'll come up with something.

Randy has started thinking of changing jobs. We've talked a lot about it. I am very lucky to have a partner that seeks my advice on life changing decisions. It looks like a big change is ahead for him, for us, but we will weather it and, in the long run, hope that it is the best thing for our family.

Alexander will start Kindergarten in August- hope they're ready for him :)

Life moves on. The daily chores and needs must be met. We persist.

My sister is dying.
She has Stage 4 terminal breast cancer with metastasis. It's in her bones. She has to stay in a wheelchair and can't lay on a bed. One hip may fracture at any moment. My mother and brother are her primary care givers. She requires pain pills every 3-4 hours. That means very little rest for everyone. Her son, my nephew, is also there to help.
Mostly her care is moving here to and fro. Outside to inside. Bringing her food, drinks, pain meds, etc. We have finally gotten Hospice involved. I feel so useless. All I can do is make dinner and do some laundry but, every little thing helps.

It's time for rest. It's time for peace. It's time... but I am not the timekeeper of another's soul.

I can't seem to cry- the well has gone dry or perhaps is only dammed up for the time being. So I will continue to persist, and make dinners and hold hands and find laughter wherever I can...

Life moves on... time moves on... I will persist... I will

Who are you again?

2010-05-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

Hello.
My name is Cat Erickson.
It's a small, yet simple name. Not very hard to remember.
How many people do you know named Cat? (While I know quite a few, I personally think it's a circumstantial thing) I'd be willing to bet I'm the only one. I know you may know several Cathys, Katies, Kates and even a Katrina or 2, but I'm pretty sure I'm the only Cat.
For those of you who know me, I'd also be willing to bet that you wouldn't describe me as a shy personality. Some would even call me obnoxious, although I do try to have some semblance of manners while in public (some- snorting is beyond my control to curtail).
Why is it then, that one of my immediate superiors can't seem to remember who the hell I am? It's not like I am one of several staff membesr that have the same job all over campus. There is only one of me. Only one person that has my job. In fact, of the 23 CSU campuses, I am one of the few people that hold the job title. Not every campus even has my position! That being said, is it really too much to ask that my bosses boss remembers who the hell I am? Seriously?
Forgetting my name once is excusable, twice is unfortunate, but not remembering my name and concurrently not recognizing me sitting in front of you is beyond the pale.
Well, I've decided that next year I'm going in costume. See if you forget me after THAT.... any suggestions? Till then I'll pretend to be safe in the knowledge that if she can't remember me, she can't fire me!

Tour De Cure

2010-04-16T17:49:00.001-07:00

With Abby's diagnosis in August of last year, we decided that we needed to be proactive in finding a cure for Diabetes.

We are participating in the ADA Tour de Cure in Long Beach. Randy will be riding 60 miles and Abby and I will ride less :)

If you are interested in contributing please go to the following link.

Tour de Cure

Please feel free to contribute to any team member.

This is a disease that CAN be cured- we just need to find the way...

My Degree in K.M.Asshat!

2010-02-11T15:32:00.000-08:00

You know, sanctimonius academics piss me the hell off.

I am NOT a professor.

I am staff.

I have my terminal degree- HA! Bite me.

Ok, ok so maybe not so much with the "Bite Me", but seriously people who gives a "Rat's Hat" if you have several initials after your name. A.S.S. works just fine not matter HOW educated you are.

Last time I checked, being a professor meant being a teacher, not being an asshat. I don't believe that reducing a student to tears is an effective way of teaching. I'm not sure I believe that the "everyone is a winner" theory works either, but what does it serve to destroy a fellow human being. Oh right, I forgot, it serves the EGO.

Well jackass, I'm not here to watch your masturbatorial rant and could seriously give two shits less about what you have to say, simply because you're an ass.

My students may not be the next shining star or theater god, but so what? The universe will cull out the chaff wheather or not they have your dull-razor wit critiques to cut them down.

I believe that school is where we LEARN, not where we become self serving pricks. I believe in building my students up, using their failures to build upon and moving forward. I believe that even the crappiest actor or tech deserves their turn to try; note I did not say shine, but try. With out trying and allowing those around us to try, we all fail. I believe in the work for the sake of the work, not for the so called "Glory".

I believe there may be a reason I'm "only" staff. I think I can teach a hell of a lot better from where I'm sitting that some of those other "Terminal" ass hats out there.

But then again, I believe those "Professors" are too busy worshiping at the altar of Ego to care about me...

That's ok- I'll keep on keepin' on and know in my heart that I have been the best teacher I can be.

Look Out Tiger!

2010-01-03T13:33:00.000-08:00

Don't Look Back in Anger

2010-01-01T17:08:00.000-08:00

2009 was at best difficult and at worst tragic, but I survived and have grown stronger. In the end, I decided to look back at '09 and catalog it in a different light..

2009 brought me face to face with the mortality of my parents. My mother under went testing and surgery. She was diagnosed with lung cancer. She under went chemo therapy. She survived. She is cancer free as of now. She has a cute new hair do. She is alive. She is here. That is a blessing.

My father, not to be out done, practically died twice- in two weeks! As, I held his hand in the ER, tears streaming down my face and clutching his hand I promised him I'd take care of mom, something I'd never done before. His eyes, wide with fear, looked back at me and the strength in his never faltered. I've never seen him laid so low and I was terrified. He survived. He is here. That is a blessing.

Annabelle had a rough year. She was changing before our eyes, but we didn't know it. Her behavior slowly changed and she grew withdrawn and tired. Over the course of 6 months things changed so slowly we had no idea our daughter was not her self. After a long vacation and a trying week, I decided to take her to the doctor. Her excessive thirst was not natural. Her need to use the restroom so frequently was a trial. She was so skinny. She is Diabetic. Type 1. Insulin dependent. Needles 4 times a day. Oh god. She is here. She is thriving. I have over come (sort of) my fear. Abby has returned to me, when I didn't know she was lost. That is a blessing.

My job has been difficult. I have a job. I have a job I'm good at and I love. That is a blessing.

Randy's job may evaporate at anytime. 495 people from is company lost their job. He missed the cut by 23 people. He has a job. That is a blessing.

My Mother turned 70 and we had a surprise party! Blessing

Randy took my to Napa for my birthday. Blessing

The kids were both in "The Pirates of Penzance"! If not a blessing, then certainly fun.

We went to Japan and met Randys Aunt and cousin. BLESSING!
I ate sushi in Japan! AWESOME
I saw baseball in Japan! Awesome

Randy had started down a new road and has found aunt, uncles, cousins, siblings and more family... Blessing.

We are blessed. We are fortunate. We are here. We persist. We go on.

I have the love of my family, the love of my husband and children and the love of some of the best friends ever. I am blessed- even in my darkest times, even in my anger, I am blessed.

Mama Said It's Time for a New Post

2009-12-06T20:50:00.000-08:00

... and I ALWAYS listen to my Mama...

Ok Maybe not, always, but more often than not...

Apparently, the negativity of my last post is due to expire and I need to move on. She's right. Time to get over it and put on my Big Girl Pants. Goddamn pants are a size bigger than they were last year, crap. Everyone who actually reads this nonsense already knows what is going on in my life, so, I guess I should try and put some good vibes out there in the universe. Of course the vibes you feel might be from the button of my new Big Girls Pants flying off and hitting me in the head... oh well, here goes...

I am taking a tap class.. yes, my grown ass self, is learning to falap-ball-change and shuffle off to Buffalo. I'm not great at it, but I'm not too bad. I go every Monday for an hour and work it, along with 5-7 other women. Women of varying ages and levels of experience. We have our first recital coming up and I'm proud to say that I actually invited non-family to attend. We are performing to "Baby It's Cold Outside" by Petula Clark and some creepy sounding dude. We are wearing circle skirts and cute little tops. Should be fun. We have been practicing and preparing with a few extra rehearsals.

I am really enjoying it and always feel good after class. We learn new things each week and it gives me a sense of accomplishment whenever I am able to conquer a tricky or complex step. I like coming home and sharing it with Randy. Perhaps I can convince him to take lessons with me. (Yeah I doubt it too)

Let's see what else... Well there is lots of other stuff going on too, but Mama said this needed to be positive, so I guess that will have to wait... Yeah other good stuff is going on too, but I can't think of it right now, my mind is too busy remembering how to do the Cincinnati and the Maxi Ford...

5,6,7,8...

My Head Hurts

2009-10-14T23:01:00.000-07:00

2009 can go ahead and end as far as I'm concerned. I am SO over it... It has been a very difficult and rude year. Not one I'll be thinking of with Auld Lang Syne in 2010. Holy crap...

Those of you still reading already know WHY 2009 blows chunks. No point in reiterating it again. Really... no point.

I'm angry. Really fucking angry. Mind numbingly angry. It's stupid to be that angry. It fixes nothing and chokes the soul, but oddly I'm finding solace in the the frisson of being this angry. It kind of numbs things. Like a persistent white noise blocking out the pain.

Yes, it's lame to be this angry, but you know what? I'm tired of being scared. Tired of worrying and tired of failing so I'm gonna be really good at being angry. I come from a long line of angry people. I've perfected "Angry Old Lady Face" years ago. The face where the lines of disappointment form a halo around razor thin lips and the furrow of the brow has Grand Canyon depths. I'm REALLY good at that face- ask Randy.

I sometimes wonder if Grandma was as bitter and hard as I remember. If she was really that severe and if she was, was she always that way? Was she born with some kind of aggro-gene that formed her or was she worn down like a glacier. Sorrow and disappointment wearing on her like little erosion filled rivers. Siphoning all the happiness of life from her face.

I KNOW Grandma was happy. I remember her as happy, but I also remember how severe she seemed and how she is remembered. Remembered by her family- very different than how she was seen by her fellow church goers and collegues.

I can remember the day we buried her. A dark and dreary day. Her Memorial was an event for her church. HUGE really. There I stood shaking hands with people I'd never met and listening to them tell stories of a woman I wasn't sure I'd ever met. A laughing and joyful woman. Person after person giving their condolences to me for a woman I wasn't sure I knew.

At the private burial, we all gathered around her plot. Feet sinking in the water logged grass and the heavens did their best to drown us. And we prayed. We were praying over a large bouquet of yellow roses. It was all very solemn and all I could do was laugh. Yes, laugh. Roses? Seriously? Grandma was a strong and forthright woman of impeccable manners and morals. She was NOT a rose. My mother had to pinch me to keep from laughing too loud.

Terrible I know. But all these years later I still think about it. I still giggle, but at the same time I worry. Who will I be when I die and how will I be remembered. How will my loved ones remember me? Will they too be shocked to hear what people say about me and feel like they are at the funeral of someone they don't know? Or will everyone know me and still not have fond memories? Should I care? Perhaps, perhaps not.

But I'm angry. I'm so angry it hurts and fills my soul. Will it begin to wear me down too? Will I become an embittered old lady? Hell, an embittered middle aged broad? I don't know and frankly, right now, I'm not sure I care.

I think I like being angry and I think that's not a good thing.... my head hurts...

What I Did Over My Summer Vacation...

2009-09-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

Well... where to begin... at the beginning I assume.

Our trip to Japan was amazing; filled with so many sights and pieces of history and culture. I am in awe of such an interesting and beautiful place. I really hope to go again someday. I missed so much...

During our trip it became very obvious to Randy and me that Abby was going through something odd. She was always thirsty and had to use the potty ALL the time. Inevitably when we were waiting for a train. She was tired too, but we thought that was because of the time change. So many things going on at once.

Things got better when we came home. She was feeling some better, but was still thirsty and running to the potty. Over the month of July she changed. She grew thin and tired and grumpy. Finally, one weekend she stayed over at her Grandmothers and Grammy indicated she was worried about how skinny Abby was. I was taken aback- She's not skinny I thought. But then I really looked at her. She had a big growth spurt, but this was too skinny. I booked a Dr's appt. for that Wednesday.

When we went in that Wednesday we learned that in the past 4 months, she had lost 4 pounds. Approximatley 10% of her body weight. If any of us had done that, we would have noticed, but she is so small and had had a growth spurt.The Dr ordered several blood tests that would have to be done the next morning and Abby had to be fasting. She was worried about several possibilities.

So the next morning Randy and I took Abby to get her blood work done- poor girl had to go through 2 needle pokes and 6 vials of blood.That was at 9 am. By lunch time we were starving again and had decided to go to Ikea. While we were in line for our yummy lunch Randy get a call. He beckons us outside and by the look in his eyes I know my life has changed forever.

We were instructed to go directly to the hospital. Don NOT feed her. Go. GO NOW.
We were admitted and sent up to the Peidatric ward. No one told us why exactly we were there. We kind of knew, but no one had told us explicitly. It wasn't until I spoke up to a nurse that she explained... Abby was diagnosed as Type 1 Diabetic.

I HATE needles. HATE. Go into vapors HATE. I used to think having to give myself daily shots would be my own personal hell... ha ha fooled you. Having to give my child shots daily IS my own personal hell.

We spent 4 days in hospital. Abby adjusted quickly. I kept crying at inopportune times. I'd have to go into the bathroom and silently sob. Sometimes, as I drove home to shower, I'd simply leak sound. Like a keening weeping moan. It was weird and I couldn't help it.

In 4 days we were expected to learn how to give injections, carb count and use the glucose meter. We were given so much information and became totally overwhelmed. On the night before 2nd grade we were discharged with a stack of paperwork, prescriptions and a "good luck with that." To be fair, the nurses in the hospital were AMAZING and supportive, but no parent can ever feel prepared enough for this.

So now were are no longer a "normal" family... We are "Abby-Normal". We carb count religiously. Carry around a kit of insulin and other diabetic need everywhere we go. I have gotten used to giving as many as 4 shots a day. We know what the different kinds of insulins do and what new technology is coming. We've decided that our life has changed, but our life hasn't stopped.

Abby is the most amazing little girl I've met. She approaches her Diabetes with a light heart and a shrug, "It's just Diabetes" she says. She hugs ME and tells ME everything will be ok.

Some days are better than others, but we are learning. We've learned what to look for when she she may be having a low blood sugar. Abby can test her own sugar level and prep her insulin pen. She knows more about eating healthy than any kid I know.

My parent and In-laws have all taken a proactive approach. They learn everything they can and know how to care for our special needs child. Alexander is still concerned for his sisters health. He wouldn't stop holding her hand when we brought her home.

We've learned about the common misconceptions between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes. It's so odd to realize how truly ignorant we were before Diabetes touched our lives.

I pray that the new advances in research will find a cure. They say we are close and it may happen in our life time. I pray it does, but until then, we will carry on. Because really, there is no other choice.

Pot and Kettle

2009-07-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

Recently I've been commiserating with a friend about the "things left undone" in our life. The fear of failure, the angst of perfection. As we talked and I did my best o be encouraging, I realized we were a little like the pot and the kettle. We both have the skill and desire, but we were both just waiting. "Waiting for what?", I'd say! "Go for it!", I'd say! Rah, rah sis boom bah! Wait a minute.... the same goes for me. What am I waiting for? Go for it? I blocked out the cheer leading imagery- it was a little disconcerting. but still valid.

Ok so... What AM I waiting for?

hmmmmm.....

Well I've decided I'm done waiting for nothing. I'm gonna do it. Now granted my idea isn't exactly a one person gig, but I think I may just have the crew lined up. Really? With the crew lined up I don't have much in the way of excuses now do I? Uh oh. Oh dear!

Ok... well here goes nothin really- because it's better than the nothin I was doing before-

Hey Kettle, this is Pot calling- We've got an adventure in store so let's get ready to rock!

Yeah I know its corny, but whatever- I'm beginning to like corny in my old age.

I'm Still Here Part 2

2009-07-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

May/June-
Costumed 40 people for Pirates- Opened Pirates!
Finished up the end of year stuff at school.
Started to pack for Japan.
My Father ends up in the hospital emergency room practically bleeding to death- TWICE.
Freak out about going to Japan.
Go to Japan.

July-
Come Home- go to work.
Learn that we may be forced to furlough 2 days a month.

Woohoo! CRAZY world still goes round and round...

Proud Mama

2009-05-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

I am a VERY proud Mama. Abby did well for her first vocal recital and in a little twist of fate, "Maybe" is the same song I sang for a recital once, when I was her age.

Enjoy-

Yeah- I'm still here...

2009-05-01T22:41:00.001-07:00

So, as you may or may not realize I haven't written in a while- ok more like forever. As a matter of fact, I haven't written since February. Dang.

Let's see...

March- I turned 33, Mom had lung cancer surgery. Mom is doing well and they think (thank the lord) that they got it all. I also opened a show and went on a Mini-moon to Napa with Randy.

April- Randy turned 35, Mom started chemo. I started Spring Quarter and put up one show.

May 1st, 2009- I now have 35 days in which to costume 40 people. And GO!

Oh and did I mention the part where Randy might get laid off?

Perhaps there's a reason I HAVEN'T written-

Cake and Dagger!!! A surprise birthday story...

2009-02-20T18:08:00.001-08:00

2009 marks the 7oth anniversary of my mother's birth. Months ago, when I asked Mom about having a party she said, "It's 75 the big one?" So I figured we'd wait 5 more years to have a big shindig. Then, life being life, threw us a couple of curve balls and I decided - to heck with that! Life is too short to sit around and wait for reasons to have a party.. we're gonna do it.

Now, because Mom had "poopooed" the whole birthday bonanza idea, I figured we'd have to be sneaky about it. So I asked Papa... always ask Papa. Being the fun loving and Mom-loving guy that he is, he thought this to be a worthy endeavor, saying, " Just tell me when and where and I'll get her there."

Thus began the frantic, secret emails between myself and my siblings. In thinking it through, I figured we'd have to have party someplace where Mom was used to being, but not expecting a party. Luckily for me, I work in an AWESOME place and when I asked if we might use the theater for our plot, I was graciously given the green light.

Now I had the venue, I had the date- her birthday fell on a Saturday!- all we needed was a guest list and menu.

Both of these seem like fairly straight forward and simple things to do. Alas... simple does not mean easy. A few years ago I did a surprise anniversary party for my parents and had to steal Mom's address book, take it to Kinkos and copy all of the relevant info. I knew I didn't have time to do that again, but I still needed the names. So, one evening while "visiting" Mom I spent the evening dodging Mom while writing down names and THEN trying to find their email addresses on her computer ALL without her noticing... Why is it whenever you're trying to be sneaky Mom has 35,000 things to tell you and wants to show you on the computer?

Once I had the names and addresses in order I sent out a mass e-vite. In my e-vite and in my excitement I failed to send out ALL of the pertinent info... sigh... some of the email addresses were wrong and I had to hope that fellow friends would forward them on.

So with a date, a venue AND guests now we needed food and decorations...

Mom's birthday is on Valentines day... LUCKILY Mom's favorite color is red. Add to that, the fact that her maiden name was Hart and I was in business.

This was a huge collaboration between my siblings and myself. Logan had a red crock pot, Joni had several serving pieces we could use and I had some too. I also raided every Target and Ross I could find looking for inexpensive pieces.

Keeping the menu simple was key- basic finger foods really. I also decided that if everyone was to be here about a hour before Mom, I had best give them more than some chex mix and peanuts to munch on!

Costco is my best friend. I went early to price everything in order to give Papa a clue as to how much this extravaganza would set him back. I tired to go twice to price things- the first time they actually wouldn't let me in because I had forgotten my card! Seriously!!!!! That had NEVER happened to me in all my years as a Costco member. Later that SAME DAY I tried at another Costco, this time with card in hand and they closed right as we got in the door... no time to browse... sigh...

FINALLY I was able to get the pricing done and sort out quantities. I ALWAYS buy too much food. ALWAYS. So I planned meticulously... when the day came to buy all the food- Roberta helped me to practically ignore all of my careful calculations- we still had too much food but we were under budget (almost). I could've just bought pre-made cheese and cracker plates and shrimp platters, but that was WAY more expensive.

So I bought big bricks of cheese and huge bags of veggies and boxes of crackers. I had so much fun standing around the kitchen with Ro and Suzie on Friday night cutting the cheese.... and veggies- don't be gross.

The day before the party Joni was coming into town because Mom had asked her to visit. She had to tell Mom she couldn't leave Arizona until noon so she could first drive to my house to drop off all of her decorations and serving ware and then drive to Mom's. Mom had no idea she'd even been to my house! Sneaky!

The day of the party, with 3 car loads of food and decorations, we arrived and began prepping the black box theatre for the party. Ro, Suzie, Danny, Sara, Logan, Randy and I had fun setting it all up. Red an white everywhere. Hearts. Lights. Flowers. etc. In the middle of hanging lights, mom called and asked Logan to bring over some tangerines from his tree. He didn't want Mom to get suspicious so he had to finish up quickly then run to Riverside, drop of the fruit and run back! Thanks Mom, for making us sweat! :)

My Favorite part was the picture of Mom from 1957. My friend Matt kindly enhanced and enlarged Mom's picture for me and we mounted it in a frame for everyone to sign. I LOVED IT!

We all worked hard to make it pretty. Suzie did an amazing job laying out the veggies and cheese. Sara made the silverware pretty and helped with the decorating. Randy and Danny were my strong moving men. Logan was my picture and lights guy! Ro was totally fantastic with everything- helping, organizing, decorating- all of it.

So how did we get Mom there you might ask? Brilliance I will say! Mom and Papa have a restaurant they like to go to that is very nice and conveniently located near CSUSB. My cousin, Kayren decided to come visit Mom fer her birthday and Papa was going to take them all to eat there. I had been a a conference all week and was going to have to work some overtime on that Saturday to catch up. Hee Hee... Kayren and I share a love of costuming and she "needed" to show me something that "needed" to be seen in the costume shop. SO.... they planned to "drop by" before dinner... Needless to say Papa still owes Mom a dinner at Les Rendezvous!

All went well.. Happy Birthday Mom!

The Girls!

The Boys!

Horror Stories of a Domestic Goddess

2009-01-27T17:51:00.000-08:00

Chicken- Part one....

Chicken is an amazing fowl. Delicious, versatile and nutritious. I like to cook with chicken- baked breasts, chicken stir-fry and one of my all time favorites: Crock-pot chicken. Defrost the bird and plop it in the crock-pot with some seasoning and broth, then wait. Yummy- I particularly like to cook it until it shreds very nicely so I can make chicken tacos. My Mother makes the BEST chicken tacos EVER and while I try to emulate her I pale in comparison. That being said- my first horror story begins on an ordinary day, not so long ago.

Having made great taco chicken, I put the rest of the chicken meat into a corning ware dish and put it in the fridge. After a few days, I decided the left overs needed to go on to greener pastures. I had taken the bowl (with lid) and placed it in the sink to be disposed of.

This is where the Duh-duh-DUH! music comes in. I'm not sure what happened to distract me, but for some reason I left the house with the kids... FOR 3 DAYS.

Upon my return, I decided I needed to clean up a bit and should start the dishes. Again, for some reason far beyond me, I forgot about having placed the bowl of fowl in the sink. As I prepared to clean up, I looked at the bowl and literally thought to myself, "Huh. I don't remember having rice recently."

Then my brain decided to stop being on holiday and kicked in... "Why is the rice MOVING!?!?!?!"

Do you know the life cycle of a fly? DO you know how long it take a small amount of chicken to become the premier nursery of maggots? EXACTLY 3 days...

I have (to this point) never been so disgusted in my life.

After screaming and dithering about, I decide to be a big girl and deal with it. GAG.

I not so casually empty the writhing nursery down the drain while simultaneously running the hottest water I can down the drain. THEN I pull out the bleach and proceed to treat my sink like the crime scene it was. NO TRACE!!!! No trace I tell you.... except for the smell....

I was so grossed out I had to call my fellow DG (Domestic Goddess) and beg her for refuge from my disgust. With her kind heart she gave us shelter from the atrocity of maggot chicken.

I haven't made tacos OR crock pot chicken in a while... Luckily I can still eat rice- as long as it isn't moving.

Chicken- Part Two

Has this ever happened to you?

One of my favorite and simple party solution is to make baked or grilled chicken breasts. Currently, our local warehouse store sells it's chicken breasts individually wrapped. Normally this is great. Keeps the freezer burn low and makes defrosting a breeze.

For a recent family party, I pulled out said chicken and proceeded to count out the needed quantity of breasts. I made about 15 chicken breasts that day. A couple days after the party, my husband was complaining about a foul odor in the kitchen. We both looked high and low to find the source of the odor- no luck. It wasn't very consistent, only a whiff every now and then. Quite frankly I was convinced one of our dogs was have intestinal difficulties. If only...

Flash forward to 3 days later- yes that's right- 3! I come home and prepare to make dinner. I've started my son on his asthma breathing machine and needed to set the timer. As I enter the kitchen I again get a whiff of the most vile stench ever. "Dammit dog!", I say... poor dog, so maligned...

Then I begin to sniff around... as I do my nephew prepares to take the trash out, just in case that is the offender. I open the oven- no smell. I open the microwave- no smell. I sniff the garbage disposal- nope. I fling open the fridge and begin to dig through the typical thing: milk, cheese and veggies. NOTHING! As I disgustedly begin to stand up something catches my eye, a flash of pink where it doesn't belong.

Lo and behold, stuck between the fridge and the cabinet it an AWOL chicken breast, still in its package. However, said package has a hole. Not a very big hole but a hole none the less. "A HA!", I yell.

Then I did something stupid- I picked it up. I picked it up with no trash bag near by.

The stench of decaying chicken is surely the mostly disgusting smell ever. Dead chicken. FOUL fowl. And then stench is one that lingers and fills a room like an invasive fiend.

After running to the trash bag my nephew bravely holds open and screaming at my poor son to keep his breathing mask on, I run around the house trying to open every window and door. Nothing short of total demolition would've cleared out the stench. It was terrible.

I tried grabbing the Lysol and hosing the kitchen with it, but then it smelled like clean linen death. The Laundromat in hell. The devils febreeze. Gross.

Retreat in the face or rather, stench, of death is not to be ashamed of.

Thank goodness for my fellow DG- AGAIN... I called her and begged refuge in her home... Again, while laughing, she graciously offered us sanctuary.

So instead of cooking chicken at home that night, we shared horror stories over hot and gooey pizza. I have faced down then stench of death and did not let it win. I ate pizza instead.

I won't be eating chicken for the next 6 months... sigh... guess I better figure out how to make hot dog tacos.

I'm not a DG for nothing!

Follow up to "Clean as a Whistle"

2009-01-22T16:31:00.000-08:00

Anyone want to take a guess at how much its costs to have a man you've barely met twice shove a camera up your bum?

Any takers?

$16,000

Let me say it again....

Sixteen- THOUSAND dollars.

If only they'd have told me that BEFORE the test I wouldn't have needed the anesthetic because I would have passed out!

Dancing Queen

2008-12-24T11:00:00.000-08:00

I am proud to share Ms. Abba-Doodle's Winter Recital. She is the tall one stage right of the teacher. I am SO proud of her, she is doing so well.

AND!!!

She was December's Student of the Month for her first grade class.

Great grades and grace-

How lucky am I?

Clean as a Whistle*

2008-12-19T13:44:00.000-08:00

*WARNING* Gross, nasty, disgusting and WAY too much information ahead. If you are not interested please don't read any further. If you are- I'm sorry.

Hi. My name is Cat. I'm 32 years old and I have a spasming colon. Yes, it's true. You may well ask, "How do you know this information, Cat?". One word...

COLONOSCOPY!!!! Originating from the latin- Colon meaning butt and Oscopy meaning camera UP the butt. How fun for me. And now... how fun for you...

So... I'm sent to a gastrointerologist- otherwise known as tummy doctor- to diagnose why my abdomen hates me. When I first made my appointment to see Dr. Reddy, the receptionist asked me the reason for my visit. I simply replied, "Mu abdomen hates me" to which I was greeted with silence. Poor girl. She didn't know how to respond. After establishing that, No, I was not dying, and yes, I could wait a few weeks, I was set up to see Dr. Reddy.

Dr. Reddy listened very patiently while I gave him the long sordid past of my hateful abdomen. Not once did he laugh at me. When my pathetic tale was through, he said, "I know whats wrong with you?" To which I replied, "Finally my life's quest is complete!". No, I didn't really say that, at least not on the outside. Anyhow he told me I have IBS- Irritable Bowel Syndrome. So basically I have a pissed off intestine; an curmudgeonly colon, cranky crapper, etc. No shit SHERLOCK! (again, I did NOT say this out loud but I thought it REALLY loud!)

Apparently the genius diagnosis was not enough for Dr. Reddy- "just to be sure", he said, "let's do a colonoscopy!"

Oh joy of joys! Anyone who know anything about this knows that "The Prep is the Worst!". So, Dr. Reddy, having a grand sense of humor, proceeds to tell me ALL about the 6 different "preps". 6 different ways to make yourself poo until you're blue in the face. I chose the, "Drink this with something you hate because you'll never drink it again" prep.

When booking my appointment, I discovered that maybe I shouldn't try to do it 2 days before Thanksgiving. Just a bad idea. Instead I pick the second week in December. Now, there are few things in life that incite the C word (crap) quite like jury duty. I received my first summons to appear during the run of the Miser and decided to postpone. Guess when I was rescheduled for? Yep, you guessed it! The Monday before my torture- I mean test. Being the lazy gal that I am, I decided to put my self in fates hands and hope I was excused on Monday thereby being free to poop on Tuesday.

As fate, life or whatever would have it, I was old by a very nice computer that I need not report until Tuesday at noon. Tuesday at noon was just, coincidentally, the same EXACT time I was to begin the "prep". Really!?!?!? Seriously.

So come Tuesday morning I rush down to the local courthouse to present my case. I explain, ever so nicely, to the Jury Lady that I have a medical appointment tomorrow and can not serve today. I have already postponed but don't know what to do. She politely tells me I am only allowed ONE postponement in a 90 day period. "Yes, I know,"I say, "but I have a (whispered) colonoscopy tomorrow." I tell her I am MORE than willing to come back on Monday or even Thursday but I just can't do it today. Once I tell her that I am willing to be here she gladly postpones me until the following week and as I sail out the door she calls, "Good Luck! Been there! Done that!". Awesome, it's like I've joined some special club.

Now I'm free to begin.... THE PREP!!! Having not eaten anything past midnight I am starving, but know that I'm SOL (so to speak). Choosing to believe Dr. Reddy that I will never again want to drink whatever I choose to put the salty prep in I choose Apple Juice. I already hate apple Juice, so I figured how could it get worse. EWWWWWW.... the only thing worse than apple juice is SALTY apple juice. I bravely chug down bottle number one of the salty-apple cocktail and hunker down to wait.

Having been through something similar before I know to have a good book ready and a pillow by the toilet. You never know when you'll need a nap. :)

Ok... so by now you can kind of figure out what my next 12 hours were like. Suffice it to say... I hate jello and never want to eat it again... Jello is the only "solid" "food" I was allowed that fateful Tuesday. Sigh... the only thing I would recommend to any one unfortunate enough to embark on this journey is this... DON'T but the cheap one-ply toilet paper. Go all out, splurge on the thickest softest 2-ply out there. Trust me on this one. Seriously.

That being done it was time for the test. At 5 am the next morning after trying to sleep with a clenched butthole I was luck enough to drive myself to the hospital. A miscommunication left me without a driver. Don't worry my husband was able to drive me home.

Off I shuffled to the endiscopy ward in my grey sweats, grey nightgown, "Grumpy" sweatshirt and little red hat covering my bed head hair do. I arrived before the doors to the hospital even open, was signed in and set up. I got to change into 2 gowns, one to cover the front and one for the back; how nice of them. Once I was trundled up into the hospital bed and covered with the wonderful warm hospital blankets, the real fun began. Oh I'm sorry, did you think the story was over? Did you think that I didn't have MORE drama for you? Seriously? Have we met?

Ok as many of you may know I HATE needles. Not the sewing kind but the Vampiric- I want your blood- kind. HATE is to soft a term. Loathe. Detest. Abhor! But an IV is required for the procedure. I warn the very sweet nurse about my stupid psychosis, but having had two babies before I figured I could do it.

Apparently not... as the nice nurse put on the rubber thing that restricts your blood flow my whole body went cold and I began to shake- a lot! I kept shaking, and shaking... and shaking. Eventually I have 4- count 'em... 4... nurses trying to give me an IV. I was crying and apologizing and shaking. So cold. Stuttering. At one point I had 8 blankets one me. It took 3 tries to find a vein. My veins are already small, make them dehydrated and scared and they disappear. Once the IV was in the kind nurses gave me a big ol dose of Atavan- make me sleep medicine. I passed out so quickly I don't even remember being rolled out to the procedure. I vaguely recall being pushed out to the car. The first thing I was even remotely aware of was waking up at 4 pm STARVING!!!!!

While the whole process was embarrassing, awful and scary I'm glad I did it. You'll be pleased to know I don't have cancer, Chron's diseases or polyps. I do however, have IBS (duh), internal hemorrhoids and a colon spasm. I also have pictures! I will in an effort to remain friends refrain from sharing those in the forthcoming Christmas cards. SO the mystery of my abdomen still remains somewhat. My Superpoo highway has a roadblock at one point and a couple bumps along the road. According to my Dr. I am supposed to take a strange drug everyday that should help ease traffic, but I'm not so sure about it effectiveness. I don't need the autobahn of intestinal highways either! Look out Metamucil cookies here I come... but that's another story for another day...

I wish you all the best of luck getting some of these images out of your head, but you can't say I didn't warn you.

(As a side note my husband said I was full of shit on that Tuesday and for the first time in my life I could honesty say, "No I'm not!")

The Miser!

2008-11-19T15:02:00.001-08:00

My last few weeks have been amazing, crazy, busy and fun! AWESOME!

When we decided to put up The Miser this season I was so excited. It is one of my favorite plays and one I've always wanted to be in. In passing, I mentioned that to the director. He invited me to audition and cast me as Frosine- the Matchmaker. We've set the play in the second age of excess-the 1908s. IT IS SO MUCH FUN! and SO much work.

I'm very blessed to have been able to be a part of this production, with the support of the department, but, most of all, the support of my family. Thank you- Randy, Danny, Suzie, Mama and Papa. Thank you for letting me realize a dream!

We finish up this week. Performances are Nov. 20,21,22 and 23. All performances are at 8 except Sunday at 2pm.

Hope to see you there!

3 Years Ago Today!

2008-09-06T17:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to My Best Boy!

Alexander William Randall Erickson

9-6-05

6 years ago today!

2008-08-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my best girl!

Annabelle Caitlyn Erickson- 08-23-02

Here's the haps

2008-08-02T10:48:00.000-07:00

So in the more recent news of the Erickson household...

Logan Arthur has been booted off to boot camp. He's joined the Army and has reported for duty in some eastern state.

I think he looks very nice with his new regulation hair cut. He came to visit us for the evening, we took him to the Japanese Teppan grill. He seemed to enjoy it and it was good to see him get along with his older brother- even if it was only for a few hours.

My oldest nephew is now a father. He and his girlfriend have a baby girl- Shyanne Rayne Bullard. Shyanne was born on July 18 right into her grandmothers arms. Apparently her Mama was having some uncomfortable back ache, but the baby wasn't due for another week or so. In the middle of the night Mama woke up Grandma (my sister) and said she should probably go to the hospital and in the few moments it took my sister to get ready, Mama suddenly said Oh NO! and out popped Shyanne! My sister caught her and all is well!

August has finally arrived... In the next couple weeks I will finish up with the FTC productions of "Othello" and "Two Gentleman of Verona". I haven't costumed 2 summer shows in a LONG time- now I remember why I don't do it! I'll be happy to see the productions up and running.

I am pleased to work with so many of out CSUSB students outside of school and make new friends and contacts, but I think that maybe I really do need a break from putting up a show during the summer- I end up burnt out and crabby. As we all know, I'm usually crabby, but burnt out too is NOT good!

So... there's some recent news from our end of the universe- What's new with you?

Next Time on "Wild Kingdom"...

2008-07-16T22:11:00.001-07:00

So apprently my backyard is the new locale of "Wild Kingdom". I have 2 episodes for you and both invlove a boy and his dog.

Picture, if you will, a warm weekday mid-morning. Early summer, late spring. A sleepy mother had just reawakened for the day having already taken her Kindergartener to school. The happy noises of a boy and his dog coming from the backyard. As she groggily stumbles to the bathroom to begin the day (if you know what I mean) her mind is jerked awake by a knock at the door. "Mommy we have to help the bird" "What?" Again..."Mommy we have to help the bird" Again... "What?".... "A bird?" We don't have a bird..." The mother, in her confusion and not fully clothed state follows her little cherub outside to find.... THE BIRD.

In the backyard is a small Adirondak chair- As seen here, it is a chair with several slats. Her chair has the slats VERY close together.

Now that you have the visual....

As she opens the sliding door, she gasps in dismay to see a small bird with one of it's tiny feet caught between 2 slats, hanging upside down. Blood all over. Poop all over. The little cherub points, "Mommy we have to help the bird!"

Yes, yes we do, the question is...HOW?

The bleary-eyed mother begins to dither. As she approaches the poor creature it begins flapping around in a panic. So she begins fluttering around in a panic. NOT good bird retreival technique. Gathering her wits about her (not much to gather) she goes into the house for reinforcements. Deciding to use a dish cloth, bamboo skewer and a knife, she reemerges into the back yard. Covering the bird with the towel to calm it's nerves (and hers) she begins to try to free the bird. Poking at the poor birds foot produces no good result. Trying to wedge the slats apart with the knife is only marginally better. Finally, in a flash of brillance she runs for the hammer!

Easy there... this is a family show- the hammer is for the slat. Gingerly holding the bird in the towel with one hand and deflty weilding a hammer with the other, the frazzled mother strikes a blow for bird freedom. As the small sparrow slips free of it's fetters it's little heart rapidly beating- the true comedy begins.

Clutching her injured prize to her bosom, she begins running about like a chicken with.... wait, bad metaphor, um... let's see... running around like a... well you get the idea. As she's running about looking for the proper recepticle for her bundle of bird muttering about how to call a vet and wondering if birds can wear a cast, she begins to rock the bird. Yes, that's right she's ROCKING the bird, as if this will calm, the now terrified, creature.

After bundling the bird in a box, she decides to use her life line and call a friend. Her trusty and ever reliable husband tells her to simply let the bird go. WHAT?!!? Shouldn't she take it to the vet for expensive and painful tests!?!?! No... Let the bird go...either he'll survive or he won't... Wow, that's harsh... But really, how is it different from any other day? Circle of life and all that...

So... Following her helpful hubbies suggestion she prepares to release him into the wild... before she can even unveil the bird off he flits and, while slightly lopsided, escapes into the wild blue yonder... And while slightly shaken and more than a little concerned about bird flu, she feels pretty darn good about her morning.

-End Episode One-

Fade In... Again we begin our story with a boy and his dog... But let me warn you... this tale has no happy ending...

Again the bleary-eyed Mama awakes to find her cherub out of doors. As she goes to greet her son she starts at what is before her. As it's the first part of her day, she forgot to put on her glasses, but even in her myopic condition she see what she thinks is the underbelly of a turtle.

A turtle? We don't have a turtle? And why is the turtle on the dogs pillow?

"Where did THAT come from?" she tries not to screech. "The kitty" "What? The Kitty? What kitty?" "WHERE DID THAT COME FROM?!"

"The Kitties house"

Ok, so she decides the origin of the amphibian must remain a mystery. Upon closer inspection and to her dismay it quickly becomes clear that the poor little guy isn't playing opossum. The well chewed turtle is well past his 9th life.

Now to be fair, just HOW and WHEN the turtle was chewed up was still a mystery, but her gut feeling was that the poor creature had long met his maker before the boy and his dog came upon him.

After moving past the sad stage to the more than disgusted phase, again comes the dithering. She tends to dither- it's her thing. So after going in cirlces for a couple seconds and regaining control of her gag reflex she comes to a decision.

To the trash can she goes and after a slight moment of regret for the fairly new dog pillow, she carries the poor guy upon the funeral pillow to "the can". The only tricky part came when she tried to open the backyard gate with one hand and nearly dumped the chewed up corpse on her head...Ewwww

-End Episode 2-

Look forward to our next crazy adventure of a our bleary-eyed Mama and her amazing backyard antics... Who knows what Wild Animal will grace her patio next?

Fork...in...my...eye

2008-07-08T14:07:00.000-07:00

Let's say you're a chair maker... ok? and you make custom chairs. And you've been hired to make 80 chairs. 40 in a renaissance style and 40 in a 1940s style. No problem right? Sure- can do!

SO you go to a meeting with your client and the tell you that they'd like to take some preview pictures of your chairs a few weeks before they're due. Ok no problem- can do! Oh, and you'll only have a hour to set up- ok no problem- can do! And... they really want to see all 80 chairs in the picture, it sells more... UM....PROBLEM! NO CAN DO.... You want me to bring all of my chairs, when I haven't even finished putting them all together yet, AND SET THEM UP IN ONE HOUR!?! TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF CHAIRS? AT ONCE.

"Well, they say, "I GUESS we could pay for an extra hour for the photographer. Just throw anything out there"

So let me get this straight, you want me to bring all 80 chairs, in various states of repair, for you to take pictures of... pictures that will represent MY work, and "JUST THROW ANYTHING OUT THERE"?

No- simply put no. There's not enough time. NO.

I don't like saying NO- especially is an astounded and shrill voice, but I did... I said no.

I should just go into the fork industry...

Hellooooo? Are you still reading?

2008-06-19T23:48:00.000-07:00

Pot? This is Kettle calling... So, yeah...about that whole, "You need to blog more" comment. Um... my bad.

So where have I been, you may ask? Good question. I've been busy with Hamlet. Scratch that, TWO Hamlets. At once. In rep. And...GO!

Well that's all done now and I've been busy wrapping up the school year and going on a mini-vacation.

The fam and I flew up to see Danielle get her diploma case for her MFA. We had a great time and came home with a new appreciation for board/card games.

I know this all very uninformative, but HEY! IT'S A BLOG!

Bottom line- I miss my friends and must see them more...

A Couple Things

2008-04-09T10:23:00.000-07:00

First- (and foremost)

My Hubby and I took a week long vacation to Lake Tahoe. This is our first "adult" vacation in 4 years. Meaning longer than 72 hours!

Boy does my butt hurt, but we sure had fun. Now before those eyebrows get raised TOO high, let me explain. We went snowboarding- a lot. Well ok, 3 days for me and 5 for Randy and for me, that's a lot!

Our hotel was 200 yard from the ski lift gondola to the top of the mountain. The village had several yummy restaurants and cute shops. We visited friends and they came up to see us too! On the whole it was AWESOME!!!

It was so nice to spend a week with just my Hubby. And guess what?!?! I still like him- I always knew I loved him, but every now and again we need to be reminded that our spouse is more than "That guy who helps with the laundry and picks up the kids". He's funny. He sweet. He handsome- Wow I need to remind myself more often!

I also enjoyed the snowboarding. It's so much fun. I TOTALLY suck at it, but I kept getting back up again. Except for the one time I fell so hard I think I broke my butt. That took a few moments of just kneeling in the snow waiting to see if I could think again. I'm bad at it but don't care I have fun and really, isn't that what it's about. My Hubby and I can share an activity together that is fun, challenging, filled with exercise (what's that?) and gorgeous scenery- I can't wait to go again next year!

Second....

I've been thinking about life and plans. Life's short and plans get pushed aside. Well BAH!

Here's what I am proposing:

3-day Mexican Cruise. "Us" girls. August.

Plenty of time to save up. (and maybe find a cheap deal)
Plenty of time to prepare.
Plenty of reasons to go: FUN, FOOD, FUN, SUN, FUN, FRIENDS,FUN, FUN,FUN!

Ok girls: Who's with me?

Life is too short to miss out on a fun weekend. Too short to sweat the small stuff and too short for excuses.

And this summer, who knows? I may even try surfing!

Please sir... May I Have Some More?

2008-02-29T10:04:00.000-08:00

I can remember being "younger" and thinking that if I made $60,000 a year, I'd be set for life. I don't need a million dollars (not that I'd turn it down mind you) I just don't need it. I have many "things" and lots of "stuff" so I really don't need more.

However, as an official adult, I am finding the age old truth that the all might dollar is nothing but a wimp. I don't make $60,000 a year, but I do ok- and am grateful for it. My husband, the glamorous pilot- currently makes less than I do. WHAT? Are you astounded? Don't all pilots make over $100,000 a month? I mean really? Well, no... in fact, the average first year pay for a co-pilot/first officer is less than $40,000 a year. And they work like demons for it too.

So to be clear, I am by no means poor and do not mean to act as if I am in the poor house. We have nice things, we have a house etc. and I am grateful for it- truly. But to come to the REAL point of all of this nonsense is this.... How do I ask for a raise? I despise asking people for more recognition.

It's not like I can walk in and say, "Hi! I've been here for 3 years without a non "cola" raise and I think you need to give me more money."

"Why? Oh you want to know why my piece of the pie should be bigger?"

"Um.... because.... umm... Hang on let me think."

Where the problem comes in has nothing to do with money. It has to do with ego and fear. I am afraid to be told, "No. You suck. In fact you should pay us to work here."

I also don't know how to sell myself- Yes I'm good at my job. But really, how on earth am I going to explain what I do and why it's important to your average "bean counter"? Half the people I meet have no idea what my job entails and about a third of those think I just muck about playing dress up.

No, my job is not required to keep society moving. In fact, the arts are often the first thing to go to the guillotine of budget cuts. But my work has value, and it's hard work too. Not just "anybody" can do my job, or my husbands for that matter.

We worked hard for our education. And now we work hard for the money, so hard for the money... (Sorry bad flashback) So we should at least make enough to pay back the student loans that got us here, right? Maybe I should use that as my justification for a raise. "Pay me so I can pay my loans, so you can have more students that can be in debt too!"

Anyhow... I'm lucky to have a department that will support my efforts to increase my piggy bank, I just wish I felt better about asking for it.

An ass out of me and me?

2008-02-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

Assumptions and stereotypes are a mental sucker punch. Boy do I feel like an ass...

Yesterday, while standing in line for my prescription at Target, I observe a small family dynamic. Both children, boys, are dress in monochromatic blue. Jeans and serviceable shirts, nothing fancy. No logos or "bad attitude" sayings on their clothes, just two plain but clean boys. With them is their mother. She is wearing very simple black flats with nylons, an ankle lengths moss green skirt, a white button-down collared shirt and matching moss green hip length vest. Her obviously very long hair is pulled back into a severe bun at the nape of her neck. She and her children spoke with an accent, that I could only describe as Eastern European. To my eye, they appeared to be a very strict and simple family. I assumed they were something like Mennonites or Amish. So imagine my surprise when out of her small and plain black purse, Mama pulls out a Blackberry and starts to talk to someone.
Honestly my brain was stuck on stupid for a second- I just couldn't reconcile what I was seeing. But fortunately my brain finally became unstuck and kicked my own ass for being dumb. Just because someone is dressed a certain way does NOT dictate who they are. I should know this very well, considering my profession. I just found my own stereotypes and assumptions to be funny. Makes me wonder what people assume about me? Maybe I shouldn't ask...

Oh- 8?

2008-01-14T09:34:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that it is now 2008. I can remember when, in the 1990s- oh so long ago- I would imagine the day I turned 24. It would be March of 2000! Wow 2000 and 24, I'd be so grown-up and old.

Needless to say, now I laugh at my naivete. 24 old? I was so dumb at 24, so lost, so confused as to who I was. How can you be grown-up if you don't know your ass from your elbow? Unfortunately, I think I may still need some anatomy lessons. At the grand old age of 31 (32 in March) I am finally starting to sort some things out about my self.

I did not know that I secretly wanted to be a rock star. Can you imagine? Me neither, but it's true. I didn't know that I would really enjoy snowboarding. I do. I really do. I fall down the mountain more often than not, but I still love it. I've also decided something- I want to take race car driving lessons. To some of you that may not be a surprise if you've driven with me, but I found it surprising none the less. I imagine I would giggle the entire time, but I don't care- I feel the need, the need for speed!

Now comes the crux of my situation- #1 I have two small children I should be caring for. I shouldn't be galloping off to relive some missed part of childhood. But... IIIIIIIIIII Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnnnnnnntttttttttt toooooooooooooo! (Whining didn't work as a kid either- Damn)
#2- I have bills to pay and responsibilities to take care of. Honestly, that will never change so why should it stop me?

But you know what? I'm almost 32 years old and dammit, so what if it's taken me this long to figure some things out? Who says I CAN'T? Me? Well I think I'll just tell myself to stuff it and do these things anyway. So I don't get a record deal- who cares? Look what it did for Brittney- I don't need that circus. So I don't join the winter x-games? I think I'll survive. (I think) So I don't win the Piston Cup? As long as I don't piss my pants I'll be a winner!

Ok- So here goes- my hopes and secret dreams are out in the universe, secret no longer- Let's just see what happens huh? Either way it should be entertaining to watch on video. Maybe I'll make a bundle from my bio-pic on you-tube! Hey, it's a thought.

A Christmas Story!

2008-01-01T15:02:00.000-08:00

So in the pre-Christmas insanity I found myself doing a ton of driving. Whenever Randy happens to remain local during his work week I make it a point to take the kids to see him. Luckily for us, he was very local the week before Christmas. He was able to come home and see us on Sunday, we went to Burbank to visit him on Monday and finally on Friday, we were able to go to Van Nuys to see him for dinner. That's a lot of driving!

Van Nuys is far. I can't imagine how Randy used to commute there EVERYDAY for a year!! As I was saying, Van Nuys is far, add to that the holiday Friday traffic and... wow! So it took me 2 hours to get there in stop and go traffic- I left Fontana at 2:30! Soo... after the long haul to get there I was NOT looking forward to the slog home.

Randy took us to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory and we enjoyed a tasty dining experience. The kids were a bit wound up from the drive but luckily it was a loud restaurant so we didn't make too much of a scene.

So after dinner I decided to delay the insanity and go to.... TARGET!! I LOVE TARGET!!

We bumble around the two story Target for a bit making our various consumer choices; enjoying the scenery of people. And now comes the whole reason for this diatribe...

I pull in to the check out line of choice and observe the two "young ladies" (I hesitate to use such words) before me- Sexy Suzy and Tarty Tricia. Both gals were wearing the oh-so-trendy aka oh-so-trashy ensemble of tight low rise jeans, mid-riff bearing tee, high heel name brand faux suede and fur boots and the quilted short waisted "jacket". Nice. Both gals had the sloppy pony tail and "I just woke up" make-up going on. But wait it get's better....

Sexy Suzy has a very visible tattoo... on her abdomen... It's the hilt of a sword...The blade is.... pointed DOWN!!! Nice.

Ok that alone is a great scenario... IT GET'S BETTER!

Trendy Tricia places her purchases on the belt and asks for two gift card at $100 each- her total was over $300. Hey it's Christmas!

Now... our final player in this mini melodrama is the cashier... Fred aka KingGamer235... Everything about him is round... his head, his belly, his glasses- EVERYTHING. Even the shape of his bald spot is perfectly round.

So Fred informs Tricia of her Grand total of..$369 and she proceeds to pull out a HUGE ROLL of $1 bills. HUGE! Now I don't know about you, but when a "lady" pulls out a grip of ones I assume one of two things... waitress or... stripper. Either way they're here to serve you.

Anyhow... As Tricia starts peeling her onion of ones, Fred, in an attempt to be flirty, asks AND I QUOTE...."Oh! Been to the casino lately?" *Grinning Roundly*

And now for the piece de resistance!!!

She looks up from her concentrated counting and looks at him with the look only an annoyed stripper can give and says, "Yeah".

That's it. Just, "Yeah" and in that one word conveyed everything! TRANSLATION: "Yeah that's it! The casino! Dumbass. I 've seen you sitting in the club a time or two. In fact I think these 5 dollars are yours from the other night."

Wow... really that's all I can say.

A gift for every season!

2007-12-02T12:52:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been shopping and seen the perfect gift for someone but weren't quite sure when to give it to them? For example, you find the best Wonder Woman panties ever and just know your dear friend would love them but it's no where near her birthday or Christmas! What to do?
Well, in a effort to help alleviate any extra stress from the lives of my dear fiends, I've decided to come up with a calendar of special events and anniversaries in my life worthy of gift giving. See what a good friend I am? Seriously, what better way to show I care? This list is good for family, friends and especially husbands!

Did I mention.... especially husbands?

January-

Jan 1st- Well I survived another calendar year, I deserve something nice!

February-

Feb 2nd- Groundhog Day- I'm afraid of my shadow too!

Feb 12th - Lincolns Birthday- I love pennies and think they should be a part of US currency- help keep them in circulation!

Feb 14th- Valentine's Day! - What would the poor greeting card companies do with out it! (PS It's my mother's birthday too!)

Feb 17th- Random Acts of Kindness day- Need I say more?

Feb 18th- President's Day- I was the President of Delta Psi Omega!

Feb 22nd- Washington's Birthday- I love dollars too!

March- MY BIRTHDAY MONTH!!!

March 13th- My Birthday

March 18th- The Anniversary of my Tummy Surgery

March 22nd- The Anniversary of my first Poop! (This was a big deal!) I think is should have a party this year! A Pupu party!

April-

Apr 1st- April Fool's Day- Because I am one!

Apr 6th- National Tartan Day- A nod to my inner Bonnie Jean!

April 13th- Jefferson's Birthday- I totally dig nickels!

April 15th- Income Tax Day- I deserve a break

April 22nd- Earth Day- I love the Earth too!

May-

May 2nd- Brother and Sisters Day- I am one and I have some!

Mother's Day- Again- I am one and I have one!

May 18th- My Wedding Anniversary!

Graduation Days!- I Graduated form both Cottey and USC in May. I TOTALLY deserve a cookie for surviving that!

June-

June 8th- Best Friends Day- A holiday for us All! Awesome!

Graduation Days part 2- I Graduated from high school and Cal Poly in June.

June 14- Flag Day- I like Flags

July-

July 4th- Independence Day- I am TOTALLY Independent! (Kind of)

July 23rd- National Hot Dog Day- Duh!

August-

Aug 5th- Sister's Day- I have 2 bio and several non-bio!

Aug 19th- National Aviation Day- My husband is a pilot- I'm a co-member.

Aug 22nd- My 1st Labor day

Aug 23rd- My 1st Birth Day- Abby 2002

Aug 26th- Women's Equality Day- Why not?

September-

Labor Day- Because I have- Twice

Sept 6th- My second Birth day- Alexander 2005- NO PAIN MEDS! ouch

Sept 19th- Talk Like a Pirate Day- Booty! Booty! Booty!

October-

Oct 9th- Leif Erikson Day- Erikson/Erickson... close enough

Oct 13th- The Flood Anniversary- The Flood.

Oct 31st- Halloween- Cause I'm scary!

November-

Nov 3rd- Sandwich Day- Mmm... roast beef on sour dough...

Nov 27th- Thanksgiving- Cream Corn... need I say more?

December-

Dec 1st- "Don't scare the crap out of me Randy!" Anniversary Day

Dec 16th- Boston Tea Party Day- I love tea and parties!

Dec 25th- Christmas

So there it is- in a nutshell- Far too many reasons for "gift" giving- I'm sure I could find more but, I don't want to appear greedy! That would be rude!

I encourage you to look over the year to come and think of all of the opportunities to give to yourself and each other- because a gift,no matter what it's reason, is a blessing. And besides it's so much fun!

Ummm... et tu compute?

2007-11-01T23:59:00.001-07:00

Your Love Life is Like The Graduate

"Would you like me to seduce you? Is that what you're trying to tell me?"

You believe that you can't pick who you fall in love with. And that sure explains a lot about your past!
For you, love has always been dramatic and crazy... which suits you just fine.

Your love style: Unconventional and a bit shocking

Your Hollywood Ending Will Be: Eerily calm

What Movie Is Your Love Life Like?

A Pirate, a wench, a dragon, a mermaid and... Where's Waldo?

2007-10-31T23:04:00.000-07:00

Halloween 2007

Simply one of the best Halloweens for the Erickson family.

Am I Blessed or What?

2007-09-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

My children just celebrated birthdays!

Abby is now 5 and in Kindergarten! Wow. I have to have her to school by 8:00 am and for those of you who know me, you know how hard that is! FYI it's week 3 and she hasn't been late... yet.

Alexander is now 2! 2?!! I can hardly believe that is was 2 years ago I had him. Time sure does fly. He is so funny and his speech and vocabulary are expanding all the time. He makes me laugh.

See? I'm blessed. Lucky me!

I'm always late, but...

2007-09-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CATE!!!

(It's about 3 weeks late and for that I'm sorry. I hope you had a great one and enjoyed your I'Declair!)

There are 2 things you should know about Cate:

#1 She is an awesome person and friend!

#2 She is AMAZING! and has the cape to prove it!

Love you!

Summertime and the Living is Easy...?

2007-08-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

So you might have noticed that I haven't posted a while... Like where is JULY?!?! Ok, so I've been busy....

I spent most of July fiddle farting around... see I was busy! Well that and going to the doctors and.... well really moslty fiddle farting around! Ahh I love summer time easy.

The problem with all of the exhausting fiddling and... um... you know... is that when I finally paid attention is was AUGUST! No big deal right? Sure except for the fact that I was supposed to have built most of Cyrano by now and was WAY behind. Thank goodness my Mom and my friends love me- Cate and Mom helped me out of the hole I'd fallen into.

Now to be fair, I did have a lot of doctor appointments in July as well as getting my wisdom teeth out in early August. FYI wisdom teeth removal 4 days before your dress parade is a supremely BAD idea! My wisdom teeth story is a WHOLE different blog...

Oh and did I mention BBQ? My hubby and I decided to have a BBQ to celebrate our new back yard. Yea! Right before tech! Yea? Well we survived thanks to the help of my nephews.

So now August is almost over and Cyrano is finally open... now I can rest...

WHAT? IT'S LATE AUGUST?!?!?!
Abby turns 5 on Thursday, has her first T-Ball game that day, AND starts KINDERGARTEN on Monday next, then Alexander turns 2!

So much for summer time easy...

To Absent Friends...

2007-06-26T12:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Aunt Bevie-

I just want you to know how very much I miss you, how we all miss you. It has been an interesting 2 years since your passing. I'm still not over it, I'm sure I never will be. I think of you so often and just wish to share with you all the joys and sorrow of my life. Mama misses you most of all. She misses you everyday.

Most of all I wish you could have met Alexander. You would so enjoy seeing him grow up and interact with Abby. Do you know he calls her Sissy? I don't think anyone taught him that, I think he just said it one day. Abby often speaks of you and how she misses you.

Every now and then I am just filled with an immense sadness and the urge to cry. I think of you and how very much I love you. I miss laughing with you, crying with you, shopping with you and just being with you.

I would stomp my feet and shout to the heavens that, "IT'S NOT FAIR!", but some how I think you'd be the first to remind me, "Tough shit! Life isn't fair." You're right it isn't and no amount of tears and anger will change that, but I can still try! You aren't the only stubborn one in the family! :)

Thank you for being an awesome Auntie- to me, to Randy and to our children. I know that you watch over us and laugh and laugh at our silliness.

So here's to you my dear Aunt!

Have a rum and coke for me, Go Dodgers!, Wanna go to Weinerschnitzel?, Need some new shoes? and Tough shit- I love you.

2006- 2007 School Year in Review

2007-06-21T22:04:00.000-07:00

Sept 2006: Another school year begins
Our dept secretary Nancy Mendez passed away. She is missed.
Student Play Festival- 5 shows and a lot of students- fun.
Oct 2006:
THE FLOOD ! Need I say more?
Nov 2006:
The Country Wife - Restoration Comedy- AND flood repairs, again, need I say more?
Dec 2006: Let's take a break! And clean up from the flood some more.
Jan 2007: A new year!
Feb. 2007: ACTF in Cedar City, UT- Love Tapes: pt 2 Hotel Lemonade and Lunt Motors
Mar 2007: Electricidad Good Cholo, good. And now I'm 31!
April 2007: Playback Theatre- ummm, yeah.
Megan Estrada-Miller was killed in an auto accident. Not the best Easter ever.
May 2007: Not only am I building a show- I'm in one! You mean I have to rehearse? Oh yeah- forgot about that!
June 2007: Noises Off! Funny and I was in a kilt! Awesome!
Banquet- F'n Donuts- I used a router! GO me!

And scene...

Until next year...

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
The Odyssey with Puppets
Polaroid Stories
Hamlet in Repertory with Hamlet: Formerly known as the Prince of Denmark

Need I say more?

Oh Crap!

2007-06-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

So here it is... My big stage debut at CSUSB!

Noises Off opened last week and closes this weekend. I have one heck of a good time. Playing a grumpy techie isn't THAT much of a stretch for me, but the icing on the cake is that I get to be a SCOTTISH grumpy techie! Awesome.

Hope to see you there!

THE STORK HAS ARRIVED!

2007-05-14T11:21:00.000-07:00

Give me a J..
Give me an A..
Give me a C..
Give me an OB... GYN!

Please help me in welcoming to the world our newest extended family addition...

Jacob Charles Eckels! 8 pounds 21 inches.

Happy Mother's Day to new Mommy- Shera. What a fantastic Mother's day present!

YEAH!! I love you my friend- Great job!

The Rev. "R" LARGE!

2007-04-16T16:15:00.000-07:00

To day is the day that will go down in the analls ? anals? of history as the day the infamous and amazing Rev. R Large graced the earth with his presence.

30 something years ago... A day that has forever changed the course of man kind!

Happy Birthday Bucketman! I love you!

- Mophead

Grief

2007-04-09T15:22:00.000-07:00

We all handle our grief in different ways- I find that I cope with anger. Not the best of coping mechanisms. When the grief is ours alone to cope with, it is easier to let it all out, but when you are in a figure of some authority and must help others to cope it is downright impossible for me to know what to do.

This weekend one of my students was killed in a car accident. She was 21 years old. Born in 1986- 1986! I can remember 1986- people born in 1986 are not supposed to die. It's wrong. It's against nature. It sucks and I'm angry.

Megan was a wonderful woman. Friendly and amazing. She was kind to all and liked by all. So can anyone tell me why the hell she, of all people, is dead? No. No one can- I know that, I understand that and I hate that.

I sit here angry and realize that I am writing all about me- my anger, my grief... How selfish... I should write about her. Her smile. Her laugh. Her intelligence. Her beauty. She was a tech student, one of the rare ones. She wanted to learn all she could and always made an effort to be her best. She cared deeply for her family, her friends and her fiancee. How can I sit here and use my breath to complain? I'm sorry Megan- I'm so sorry.

I try to pray- and if I can, I pray that she feels no pain and is free from anger. Her face keeps flashing before my mind and I can't help but think she'll walk in through my shop doors any minute with 2 cups of tea and a smile.

Oh god- why?

And next week I'm getting a walker...

2007-03-08T15:38:00.000-08:00

I'm old. No really, I mean it, I am old. This past month I've been to seen the doctor twice and the oncologist. Yep I'm old.
First off, I went to the oncologist to get a mole removed. It was benign- so no worries. But now I have an inch and a half scar on my belly. Quite the collection I'm getting. I've had that mole for 30 years and I feel like some small part of my personality has been excised from my soul. Wow, that was deep, kind of like something some one old would say. Oh right, I am old.
Many of you may think I'm reacting to turning 31 next week. Honestly I'm fine with 31- fine being a relative term. No really, 31 is just one more than 30 and it's not old- but I am. SO for those of you that have more years on me, I don't want to hear back about how old you are- you're not old, I am.
I have high cholesterol- there I said it. 172 high. My dirty little secret is out. I have to take cholesterol medication- see, I'm old. Next thing you know I'll be needing something for my arthritis. And did I mention I have to probably take this medication for the rest of my life? Yep- right along with my Metamucil!
I realize that I should be grateful that I can even take these meds to protect against heart disease. I know that I shouldn't complain, but too bad, I am. I'm sure I'll get over it... well maybe not, but at least I'll quit complaining so loudly. Wait a minute... It sort of sounds like I'm acting childish- AWESOME! Maybe I'm not so old- oh wait... maybe that's the senility setting in.
Dammit! Where are my teeth? I can't find them and it's time for my pudding.

Roll Out the Barrel

2007-02-09T16:05:00.000-08:00

My children always amaze me- with their humor, intelligence and compassion. Some days, however, bring me to new heights of parental awareness.

Annabelle was a fairly easy going toddler- at least I think I remember it that way- let's just assume my muddled mind is correct in this. I swear estrogen has something in it that makes us forget or softens the edges of reality. Anyhow-

My son has done everything in his power to do everything the exact opposite of Abby. From the difficult pregnancy to his sleep patterns. This is not bad, it's fine, he is being his own person. What it means though is Randy and I still have no idea what to do with a toddler!

I'm standing in front of my sink trying to get ready for my day. I know my children have had breakfast- I fed them. Then over the din of the hair dryer I hear crying. Not the "I'm-hurt-you-better-hurry" kind of crying more of a constant whine crying. As I shuffle around the corner hoping everything is ok, I find my heart leaping to my throat. Alexander is on the table... standing on the table... yes, the kitchen table. Arms wide and tears flowing, he can't figure out how to get down. Luckily he didn't try to jump! Seventeen months old and he's a frickin' monkey! Don't get me started on the ladder for the bunk bed!

My son is also very impatient. When he wants something he wants it now and he doesn't want a substitute. Milk in a bottle, NOT a sippy cup. It's still milk kid! But No!

Randy was prepping the bath for Alexander when Alexander decided he wanted to get in.
"Hang on" "No!" Randy goes around the corner to get something only to return to find our son, in the tub... shoes and all! Fully clothed." Wait? What does this word wait mean?" Brat.

He is so funny and cute and stubborn (that's all from his Dad by the way!- Stop laughing... No, really, ALL Randy) If this is just a fraction of what I will face as a teenager- I tremble in fear. I'm beginning to think my father is right, Boys do belong in a barrel!

Wow! I'm Good! (Or is that Mediocre?)

2007-02-04T17:28:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been told you're really good at something and then wondered what that means?

If someone tells you you're awesome at "X", doesn't their opinion depend upon their knowledge and experience with "X"? Of course it does, that was a rhetorical question, thank you.

But I wonder about other opinions, more subjective ones. Like when someone tells you you're beautiful- should you ask for a reference point? Beautiful compared to what/whom? Yes, this is a shallow question. Sorry, it's just what's on my mind.

What about skills? Am I really that great at "X"? or have you just always had a bad experience and I do alright? Or do you have no experience and can't tell bad from good?

How do you react when some says something complimentary about you and then says the same about some one else. But in your mind that other person is not at all like you and you find them less than complimentary? Basically in non-PC language... You're so Hot! (cool) She's so hot! (She is NOT!) DAMN! Does that mean I look like her? The "her" I find less than cute?

Again, I know this a shallow and superficial dialog, but if you go deeper and look at the less superficial cases, the fact still remains that I can't really know where I am on the grand scale of things. Except by using someone else as a gauge- and sometimes that makes me very uncomfortable when I look at their "yardstick". How do I measure up? Do I want to be measured by that stick?

Ugh. So I hate to even say it but, how do I measure up? How do I measure up against my own "yardstick"? I don't know, but isn't there a joke out there about 6 inches and how men and women measure the distance?

Give me a minute, I'm thinking...

2007-01-23T16:09:00.000-08:00

I really have nothing to say. No funny stories. No good news, but no bad news either. Hey maybe no news is good news.

Wait, I know something I haven't shared! Randy took on a mini-moon 2 weeks ago. We used some of the hotel points he's earned over the past 5 years and went down to San Diego. He looked it all up and also found a new play being presented at the Old Globe. "ACE"- a musical about pilots- talk about perfect, right? So he booked us a one night stay at the San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Hilton. Apparently a VERY big deal.

My hubby is a "Diamond" member of Hilton Points and because of that he can get some nice rooms and amenities. When we arrived they asked us to choose our treat- basically a snack. I could choose from, peanuts, crackers or chocolate buttons. I chose the chocolate. FYI "chocolate buttons" is Hilton code for M&Ms. Also a small bottle of wine- nice huh? They also comped out breakfast at their buffet. Super nice.

We had fun being adults. I really enjoyed the play, Randy did too.
We took a cab to and from the play. The walked around the "gaslamp" district. Like a swanky downtown. It's in the process of being restored but had some great restaurants and silly and expensive shops. We ate a the San Diego Sevilla for a late dinner, super yummy. Then walked back to the hotel.

The next morning we took our time coming home. Stopped in Temecula to look at the Outlets- a bit of a waste, but I was with Randy so I didn't mind.

Overall the trip was SUPER- Thanks Hubby- you rock!

So I guess I did have news- silly me. Helps when you turn on your brain!

Coffee Communication Differences

2007-01-17T16:43:00.000-08:00

I'd like a small coffee.

Ok. A tall coffee.

No. A small coffee.

Yeah- A tall coffee.

What? I don't want a large!

Oh do you want a Grande?

Grande? No. I want a small. What's a Grande?

A medium.

Medium? How is Grande medium? Grande means big, right? I mean, when I order the Nachos Bell Grande I want them big!

Oh you want it big? So you want a Venti?

I'm sorry what? Venti? WTF? No I just want a small coffee.

Ok- One Tall coffee...

Tall = Small

Grande= Medium

Venti= Large

I swear men started this company. Is it some sort of coffee compensation relating to the size of their twig-n-berries? Because when something is small I'm gonna call it small- not Tall.

The McDonalds of Coffee*

2007-01-10T17:07:00.000-08:00

As we all know, my holiday spirit 2006 was lacking. So lacking that it needed serious CPR to make it through the season. It was lucky I hadn't signed the DNR. I mean it was bad.

So in a last ditch effort to inject some life into my holiday spirit, I decided to take the Friday before Christmas off and spend it with my hubby. We were going to go shopping and just enjoy being around each other. Good plan huh? I thought so, time with my hubby is good for me.

So... I drop the kids off at day care with a smile on my face and head to my local "Starchucks" for some over priced, highly caloric, coffee creation. That's when it all went wrong.

I don' t know about you, but I usually try to avoid "Starchucks". Twice in the last few months I have had bad experiences there. Let me tell you about them...

#1... When you order iced coffee with milk, what would expect to get? Coffee, ice and milk, right? NOT coffee, ice and some nasty-ass syrup! Apparently iced coffee with milk translates into "Starchukian" as Iced Cafe con Leche. Hey, I'm no expert, but doesn't that mean Coffee with milk in Spanish? No mention of said super sweet, super sucky syrup! Besides I don't think "Iced" is Spanish? Anyhow... Guess what I got? Yep, you got it.. No milk and a diabetic fit in the car.

#2... I'm prepared this time... Again I ask for "Iced Coffee with Milk" but I make sure to mention that I don't want the syrup. No, really I don't want the syrup. "Ok!", she says, "No problem!" What do I get? You'll never guess... Hallelujah! No syrup! But wait... Isn't there milk in something that is supposed to be "con Leche"? No Milk? Wait it gets better...

Me: I'm sorry there was supposed to milk in that.

Barrista: No.

Me: on the inside (Excuse me, What? Did she just tell me, THE CUSTOMER, No?)
Me: on the outside: Oh but she said there would be.

Barrista Bitch: (Yes, I renamed her) Oh she didn't tell me. It's over there. (This was followed by a general wave in the direction of the sugar and cream area)

Oh yes, my friends it gets even better...
When I looked at the "Starchucks" shorthand on the cup it said ICCL! Can anyone tell me what that means? Oh my... could it mean Iced Cafe CON LECHE BITCH!

Here's the thing, not even that made me stop going to "Starchucks", #3, however, just might do the trick...

#3...Quick recap: December 23rd, mid- morning attempt to get rid of the Grinchyness...

In an attempt to be quick about it, I drove through the drive-thru. Having a great time chatting with my long lost friend, I quickly ordered 2 drinks and waited my turn. When I pulled up, I decided to quit relying on the ATM card and use an antiquated from of payment called cash. Now, I know that of the various types of cash out there that the $10 bill is not the favorite. Most prefer the $20 and some like the $1. But as a form of cash it is still perfectly legal.

I hand the Barrista (she's not a bitch) my $10 bill and wait some more. As the gal hands me my drinks another Barrista comes to the window, my $10 bill in hand. This is how it went...

Barrista #2:(Voice as sickly sweet as the damn syrup) Do you have another form of payment?

Me: (Shocked and embarrassed) Is there a problem?

Barbie Barrista: Um... There's no strip, the paper feels funny and the back is awfully green.

Me: Umm... ahhh... Use this. (The dreaded ATM)

At this point I had hung up on my poor friend in my shock and amazement. (Sorry Dani) I was so surprised. I was at a loss of what to say and felt guilty for something... what, I don't know.

Barbie Barrista: Sorry about that! (A smile)

Me: Yeah

I drive home angry, tearful and confused. Merry Frickn' Christmas! Stupid counterfeiting people! I needed that $10- nevermind I just spent it on useless coffee. (Hey, I'm in the right here, remember?)

I'd like to tell you that's the end of the story but it's not...

As I stormed into the house, I decided to finally examine said offending bill. Yes, the paper was worn. Nope, no strip. And the back was too green... well, it was green anyway and not the new fancy orange.

Upon even closer examination I discovered the key to the whole scam. That Barrista was too smart for me. She is quite the Counterfeit Catching Queen! Wow, I couldn't get this past her.

It must have been the strip that tripped me up... I should have put the strip in, I just didn't think that the US Treasury Department was using strips in... wait for it... 1963!

Yep- 1963! If you were 47 years old and made out of a fabric paper I bet you'd be a little worn out too. And that fact that you were still green at all is amazing!

Upon reflection, I know that this is a dumb story and a dumb reason to dislike "Starchucks" but who cares, I'm the consumer and I can elect to spend my old, possibly counterfeit, money somewhere else.

1963? Come on... I mean really. TWIT!

But thanks to the valiant effort of my hubby and my best friend, my holiday spirit has survived to see another day. Hopefully it won't need hospice this year.

So be warned- $10 bills are tricky and simple coffee drinks are not worth the time of the sofisticated "Starchucks Barrista". Don't believe me? Just trying ordering a black coffee and see what happens.

*Thank you to Sara for the Title

But Ma! Aren't you Having Christmas This Year?

2006-12-18T21:45:00.000-08:00

In our house growing-up my father was teasingly known as "The Grinch" and over the years he has acquired many stuffed versions of said "Grinch" from the typical to the koosh version. My mother has always put up a tree, decorated it with love and homemade ornaments and hung stockings for all of us. What a nice image huh? But you know, as I grow older I begin to see the Christmas hub-bub is a whole new light. Basically I'm becoming a "Grinch" or "Scrooge" or maybe just a grown-up; the jury's still out.

I don't like Christmas anymore. I don't like the pressure to buy more stuff with no money for people who don't need more stuff. Yes, even my kids- they don't need anymore toys- PLEASE for the love of Santa- NO MORE TOYS! Books are always welcome- but really we have a mini library of toddler congress already.

I'm trying to decide if I just have a case of the Holiday blues or not. But really, every year we pick out some poor little dead tree to hang our odd collection of ornaments on. Ten we try to hang lights on the house without falling off the ladder- actually that is kind of funny. I stress out over what to get for everyone. Randy stresses about what to get for me- I stress about what to get for him. We work and work and work to do, do do and I feel like were missing the damn point. All religions aside, really what's the frickn' point??

Then it sort of hit me like a reindeer fart in the face- we do it because our Mama's did and our Mama's Mama did before her. For years my mother carried on with the decorating and false cheer for us- her kids. So it makes me wonder, did Granny do the same for her? Is Christmas tradition just some perpetuated myth about holiday cheer handed down by the mothers of the family. We do it because our ancestors did- not because we necessarily want to, but because we're programmed that way?

Not a very happy thought I know, and I'm not sure I buy it wholesale myself, but it does make me think. Would my mother be much happier on a cruise to Mexico on December 25th than making mashed potoates and ambrosia for us? For that matter how would she feel it I stole her and we ran off to Tahiti for a christmas rum punch and a tropical christmas tree? Now that's a tradition worth starting!

Or maybe we should go to Australia- you know it's full summer there at Christmas time. My friend Natasha, who is from Australia, said they used to leave out a beer for Santa on Christmas eve; no milk and cookies for him! That's a lot of extra weight to carry around in the middle of summer big guy- maybe a few less beers would help (hint, hint)

Either way I think we need to rethink this darn season- because really, we should wish for peace on earth all year round, we should think of others all year round and I for one, would love to give and get presents all year round too! Not because we are expected too, but because someone genuinely thought of us and we did the same. Now that's a present worth giving or getting.

So Ma? Are you having Christmas this year? .... or are we going to Tahiti?

And You Thought This Was A Good Idea Because...?

2006-12-08T16:21:00.000-08:00

So they found my nephews car! And it's totally driveable- guess why? Because the idiot that stole it, thought the cops wouldn't notice a 1965 Mustang with a primer hood. Oh no! that must not be the one reported stolen, because there are so many of them. IDIOT!

But officer, it IS my car!

Well sir, is that you back pack?

Um yeah...

Your name is Danny?

Um...

Sir, step out of the vehicle.

MORON!

Merry Christmas Danny- I'm so pleased you can now go back to school and not quit because some moron stole your car. Because having your car stolen is a totally understandable reason for quitting college right? Guess who else is a moron? God love 'em.

How hard is it really?

2006-11-28T17:08:00.000-08:00

How hard is it? If it doesn't belong to you, don't take it. Simple right? Apparently it is a concept we humans have one hell of a time understanding.
My nephews car was stolen today. He's 19 years old with a brand new job, trying to make it through college. Some jerk decides to steal his car. Granted it was a 1965 Mustang a highly iconic car, but really? It wasn't theirs to take and they did it anyway. How rude. How selfish. How mean.
And why? How will their life advance because of it? Probably not as much as the ride meant to my nephew. School and work are all he was able to do and now he may not be able to do that. HOW CRAPPY!
It really makes me mad, especially at this "time of year". We're supposed to be thinking of others dammit- not stealing cars and getting in to fist fights at Best Buy over what basically amounts to an expensive pile of crap. Now, that last bit didn't happen to me, but I saw it on the news and was once again dumbfounded at the selfishness and baseness of people. Merry Christmas- I punched a guy out to get you that - Don't I love you? Aren't I a great person? Ummm, NO! Hi! Kind of missed the point jackass!
GRRRR... I think I may boycott the whole gift giving thing this year- It's not like I could buy my nephew a car, a gift that would actually do some good and be appreciated.
People suck sometimes....crap.

Two Peas in a Pod

2006-11-23T00:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my pod-mate! My best friend! My better pod-half. Here's to our similarities and our differences- you are like the sister we never had- Thank you for being the amazing woman you are and for encouraging me to be a better one. I love you and I miss you terribly. As our lives have taken a new path I know that my fellow pea will always share a part of my life. Congrats on your birthday- enjoy! Love- Pea 1 (Hey I'm older! you're the smart one anyway!)

It's all in the coat...

2006-11-22T14:29:00.000-08:00

Now in life there a great many mysteries- the mystery of the coat is one I LOVE to see. Each "generation" or so an actor comes along that knows how to wear clothes- no matter what you put on him they know how to carry it. And then there's the coat- you know what coat I'm talking about... THE COAT.

Andre and I had such fun fabric shopping and when he picked this out we both knew that it would be FABULOUS. (It's a heavy velveteen with a gold stencil pattern) I worked so hard on this coat and every finger prick was totally worth it. I am honestly proud of this coat. It is the kind of coat that would look good on a dressform. And the actor wearing it just takes it to a whole new level... This coat is on the same level as the "Hamlet" coat and "The Mr. Darcy walking in the mist" coat. I mean really...Those of you in the know, know what I'm talking about.

I hope that this coat is used again... I'm having a hard time not taking it home!

Here's to the "Mystery of the Coat!"... mmmmmm....

PS: The Country Wife is still playing: November 30th, December 1st and 2nd at 8pm and December 3rd at 2pm. 909-537-5844

I Think I Can, I Think I Can, I Think I Can...

2006-11-15T23:55:00.000-08:00

There's a light at the end of the tunnel.... and it's getting bigger each day....

I realize I have been remiss in posting the last month or so but hey- no time. Well, I don't want to jinx anything, but we're almost done- and I think it just might be ok. Wow...again, not to spit in the eye of the universe or anything, but I think we might hae one heck of a nice looking show...

There's a light at the end of the tunnel.... and it's getting bigger each day.... umm... Did I just hear a train whistle?... oh crap...

2 down 2 to go-

2006-11-06T22:47:00.000-08:00

Randy has been gone for 2 weeks- I've hardly seen my kids at all these last 2 weeks either.

I won't see them much for 2 more weeks and Randy will be gone until the 19th-

I'm still upstairs in the pseudo-shop and I'm so tired I'm numb. Oh well.

I miss my husband- I miss my kids. And what the hell and I going to cook for Thanksgiving dinner?? Oh crap...

Umm.. the end of the work day is when?

2006-10-26T00:21:00.000-07:00

Most people work 9-5- an 8 hour day.

My day began at 9:30 this am, not too bad, but consider that my evening ended at 12:00 AM the night, or is it morning, before. And guess what? It is now 12:30 AM and I'm still here.

Talk about commited to your work, I think soon I just might be commited.

Oh and I miss my husband- he's been gone for 3 days and I have 3 1/2 more weeks to go.

When you visit me at the funny farm please bring candy... you will visit me won't you? Uhh... here come the men in the little white suits.. hee, hee..

But wait there's more...

2006-10-18T11:21:00.000-07:00

I should know better than to ask a question...
Imagine this if you will... A cool October evening, dress parade has just finished and I take a jaunt on down to my shop and what do I see....

Well let me tell you- men, a large amount of men tear out the walls of my building. So I think to myself, "Self. Are they going to take my walls too?" You see, it had been discussed that they would be taking ONE of my walls apart to make sure it did mold- 1 turned in to all... and my all I mean ALL! Every last drywall wall. ALL!

Have you seen my shop? My overly compacted and stuffed with stuff wall? Oh and did I mention that all walls meant behind the cabinets. Oh yes the cabinets filled with stuff. LOTS OF STUFF!

So I frantically speak to our Co-Dept. Chair Kathy- she speaks to the "guys" the large men with language barriers and it is established that I have to move my shop- tonight! Now! RIGHT FRIGGN' NOW!!!

So after a few more frantic phone calls the help brigade arrives and we move it - all of it. Harlan, Andre, Kathy, Margaret, GW, David, Breanna, Chandra, Brent, Megan, Ben and James are all my new heroes! They helped me in my hour of need and you, now.. flood and mold aside I feel very blessed to have so many people willing to help. And by goodness did we git 'er done!

And so the saga continues...

Until the next time when I can be more awake and witty..

Umm.. Be careful what you wish for...

2006-10-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

So.. I've been wanting to really clean out my shop and get rid of a lot of old stuff-

dumb, dumb, dumb...

Did I mention the flood? And by flood I mean water, water everywhere and only cardboard boxes in sight!

My office, the shop, the craft room and the fitting rooms- all wet- Now by no means is this a DISASTER, more of a really big inconvenience, but right now? Seriously? Right FRIGGIN' NOW?!?!?!?

Friday it rained: buckets- the drains were overloaded and the water chose the easiest path to my shop. I'm lucky compared to the bookstore and the recital hall. Or should I say the pool in the recital hall. Maybe we can convince Carol Channing to do her bet synchronized swimming routine for her fund raiser on Sunday (this coming Sunday- October 22

Harlan called me and so he and I and a couple of students moved everything and tried to dry it all up- What a fun Saturday! :)

This whole "that which doesn't kill you makes you stronger" concept is bullshit- I mean really. All the really tough people must be dead.

Well as the say, "when it rains... well you know the rest... and really Cats don't like water.

Grrrr.

4 am?

2006-10-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

I have never been very good at getting up early... never. The last time I remember voluntarily getting up at 6am I was 5 years old. Sesame Street was on!

Today I woke up at 4 am- for no other reason then stress. I dream about work- I am constantly thinking about it. I'm tired.

12- One dozen- 2 more then 10- 3 X 4- Did I mention 12?!?! 12 corsets for this show- I'm tired.

Randy was just hired at NetJets (Yeah Randy!) so this means a pay cut and 7 days gone at a time- not to mention the 4 weeks gone for training. And by gone, I mean in Columbus,Ohio-Gone. It is a positive step in Randy's career especially considering the current situation of the aviation industry- but sometimes in order to go forward one has to take a few steps back- like 30,000 back- I'm tired.

Annabelle and Alexander- I love them I'm tired.

Oh look a theme- my English prof would be so proud.

So basically- I'm tired and my dreams are filled with corsets and deadlines.

I wish they were filled with a tall, cute cabana boy armed with a bottle of suntan lotion, a fruity drink and ulterior motive. Hello!

I'm so tired I'd probably fall asleep before there was any motive involved.

I'm tired.

And so it begins...

2006-09-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

It's funny- I don't think I've ever been one of those kids that wants summer to last forever- I think I've always liked school, especially a new year. Maybe I'm deluding myself into a false memory, but I really do think I've always liked school. Maybe it's because growing up I had very few kids my age to play with so school was the only time I'd see them. Huh? I wonder?

Anyhow- here it is again- that crispness to the air, the smell in the hall, school is coming- now I know that for many it has already begun, but not for us. The big day is September, 21st- a Thursday. Wait, a Thursday? Wow. Why Thursday? I'm sure there are all kinds of bureaucratic answers, but really who cares? It's THURSDAY! Only 2 days of school the first week! Awesome.

So as we begin the new quarter I want to look forward and look back...

Looking back at the summer here is a brief recap-

June- Friends came to visit
July- My nephew came to stay for the summer "Danny the Nanny"
August- The Fam went to St. George, Sara and I went to PCPA, Kathy and I went to Vegas and Abby turned 4! Wow August was busy.
September- Clara Kozbial was born, Sara was married- AWESOME and Alexander turned 1!

Looking forward-

September- School starts, Cate and I will walk in the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk in the OC, My brother starts a new job.
October- Student Play Festival, 2 friends get married
November- The Country Wife, More friends get married
December- 2 babies are due! (Michelle and Alejandra)

So I've got quite a bit to keep me busy!

I am very much looking forward to the new school year, especially The Country Wife- Oh man is it funny and it will be gorgeous!

I hope to have time to fill you all in (all 3 of you) on the shenanigans that take place over the next few months!

Do you smell fall in the air? No that's not smog, it's the scent of spice and the harvest to come; of an ending and the promise of beginning.

And so it begins...

Not to be Forgotten

2006-09-07T19:36:00.000-07:00

It has been pointed out to me that I was lax in my posting about my Vegas trip... I failed to mention one of the highlights.

I saw Isaac!

We met him at NY/NY after he finished his shift at Zumanity. He gave us a very hands-on tour of the facility. Unfortunately we didn't get to see the show- it was dark for the days we were there. He then took us to The Orleans casino where we ate and gambled at bit. Then we went back to Treasure Island for more gambling and drinks.

It was awesome to see him, he looked great- More tattoos than last time, a lot more! He looked happy with his job and life and was still my Isaac!

I apologize for this belated blog, but I didn't want him to feel left out!

Are the steps to the underground to be found in sin city? I'll never kiss and tell!

We Can Officially Name Him!

2006-09-07T19:22:00.000-07:00

I've heard it said that in some cultures a baby isn't named until his 1st birthday for very morbid reasons not worth mentioning.

So. Alexander William Randall Erickson is now official.

1 year ago on September 6th at 12:30 am my beautiful son was born.

It has been a bit of a trial for him this last year with breathing problems and tummy trouble, but as of today the Doctor has given him a clean bill of health! Thank God!

He is so much fun to watch and Abby just adores him- so far. Let's see how she feels when she's 16, shall we?

Thank you God for such an amazing blessing- not only one wonderful child but 2! How blessed can I be-

I love you my son- Happy Birthday!

If I Had A Mini-Van I'd Be Dangerous!

2006-09-01T00:34:00.000-07:00

I mean it- If I were a soccer mom I would be hell on wheels. I think my kids should be glad I work, because if I were home all the time I'd drive them crazy- because we all know I wouldn't clean my house, I'd find crafty things to do for every little school project, team event and birthday.

My darling daughter just turned 4- 4! and we decided that since we were so busy with having a baby on her last birthday, that we should give her a big party just for her. I went all out, I made the invitations for the kids, I picked out silly things for the goody bags- I hand drew treasure maps for the kids- Yes you read that right- I drew! I hired a clown to face paint for the kids and give them a show- AND I thought, in a stroke of brilliance, that I would make a "cupcake cake" so that each kid would get them same amount of "cake" and clean up would be minimal.

All of this work so my daughter could have a great birthday- because I love her. Oh yeah and remember she's 4! OK, so I took it all too seriously and went over board- Especially considering the fact that of the 9 children invited to the party 2 showed up- oh yeah, 2!

Talk about minimal clean up. Now I know Abby would have cared less if no one showed up, she had fun either way- but I got all tense and butt-hurt about it. I know, I know, get over it Cat- Abby will grow up and have her own neuroses she doesn't need yours!

All of the psycho babble aside- Abby had fun and she really enjoyed Bubbles the clown and her 2 friends plus the poor young girl we hijacked into joining the party! We then went home to have an excellent family and friends BBQ. My friends rock!

But let us not forget the "cupcake cake"! I am a cupcake genius! (Ok maybe not genius, but pretty close) Not only did I get all 24 cupcakes to fit semi-snug together, I managed to ice them all to look like 1 big cake- But the topper, literally, was the fact that I drew (again drawing) in ICING, a copy of the treasure map I made for the kids on the "cake"! Oh yeah! Go me! (Insert happy dance here)

So what I learned from my 4 year old daughter is this- the number of friends at the party doesn't matter, it truly is the quality of friends- and my friends are like my cupcakes- sweet, comforting and always just the right amount of fun!

Arrrgghh! Shiver me timbers!

2006-08-23T22:45:00.000-07:00

4 years ago today I was blessed with my daughter. Annabelle Caitlyn Erickson.

I know some Mom's have horror stories about the birth of their kids, and while it was no picnic, I still don't think it was that bad. No epidural no less! (That's my brag) Abby is a delightful little girl that is growing up so quickly, she is currently in her "dress" phase. I hope it doesn't last too long because she only has 3 dresses! She is funny, sweet and beautiful inside and out.

I love her so much- Thank You god for such an amazing blessing.

I'm getting too old for this...

2006-08-22T11:58:00.001-07:00

Turkey Sandwich: $9.00 (No Mayo)

Chocolate "Mousse": $7.00 (Not mousse but cake)

2 Flirtinis: $25.00 ($12.00 each!)

Eating our most expensive meal of the trip at the Forum shops mall food kiosk where rubbing alcohol is the same as vodka: Priceless

I've determined that I "missed out" on a lot of the more cliche things in life. I rarely drank in college and never went to Texas for spring break. I wasn't in a sorority- Cottey cured me of that. All women, all the time for 2 years- my god! I've never "dated" in the clasic sense. I don't have tattoos or my belly button pierced. (Eiher one of them) And I didn't go to Las Vegas for my 21st birthday.

However, I just went with my friend Kathy to "Vegas". And at 30 years of age I've decided that most people have more money than sense and that my body was not meant to be up all hours and walk around too long in stupid high heels!

That said- I had a blast. This trip has been 2 years in the making and it sure was worth the wait. We had so much fun!

Ironically, we drank only little and gambled very little as well. Our money was put to good use- we shopped... and shopped... and shopped!

Have you ever seen, let alone touched $900 shoes? Wow! More money than sense expamle #1! Jimmy Choo shoes- that looked painful but hey, there was a matching purse for $750! That's style baby!

We spent WAY too long in the MAC store buying WAY too much stuff, but we sure felt pretty after and really, if that's not worth it I don't know what is.

We enjoyed people watching and even some people (guys) watching us. If you got it flaunt it, if you don't flaunt it anyway.

It's very true that "Vegas" seems to be a free-get-out-of-reality card for most people. An excuse to act as risque or silly as we want without judgment. I'm not sure we're not judged, but if you play your cards right (ooh I'm good) you're too oblivious to care.

I'm still not sure if I was more blinded by the daylight or the night lights of "Vegas" but I was sure dazzled by the sheer scale of the adult fantasy land. It is insane- truly.

Things I've learned in "Vegas":

Always be specific when ordering alcohol- not every vodka is the same.

Never assume that she is a she! (or he is a he)

Don't bother trying to drive anywhere. If you can't walk it, don't bother.

Heels may be cute, but flats will get you there faster.

Try one thing you've never done before, because here it's probably legal. (Gambling people, gambling... dirty birds)

Go with you girl friend once and enjoying shopping, drinking and being silly and carefree.

Don't go on the weekend- unless fly!

I realize I haven't really told you what we did, but... wait for it....

What happens in "Vegas" stays in "Vegas"!

Put another wrinkle on your birthday suit!

2006-08-22T10:39:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to one of the bestest friends in the whole wide world....

The Amazing Catherine Esera!!!!

Happy Birthday Friend!

Comments

2006-08-10T23:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Readers- (All 4 of you)

I love the comments that are left and would love for everyone who reads my blog to leave a comment. So all of you non-blogger readers please leave comments too! I would love to hear your opinions!

One time... At PCPA...

2006-08-05T22:08:00.000-07:00

Whatever happens on the road stays on the road-

So I get back from St. George, Utah from a mini-"vacation" with the fam and the in-laws. We went out on Monday, saw Zion National park on Tuesday, came home Wednesday night: late.

I amble into work on Thursday around 11 am (Do I love my job or what?) and begin the greulling summer work of web surfing and email checking. (It's exhausting, let me tell you)

My friend Sara comes in looking for lunch at the appropriate time- which is anywhere from 10:30 to 12- and we discuss our options. Currently we are a "Bakers-free zone" because Harlan is in France. So Togo's it is! Yeah!

She tells me about her lunch with our student, GW, the previous day and passes along his disappointment with the lack of visitors he has received during his summer theatre fun. An idea forms--

We should go see him. Then Sara says this would be a great weekend to go because her honey is away- I let it be known that getting a sitter is no problem- And the "Road Trip" is born. We have to negotiate a few details and set up some baby/dog sitting but we decide that we'd leave on Friday and come home on Saturday! All we need now is some gas money, some snacks and maybe a map!

After a detour to the dentist for me, we meet up in Riverside and head out. Getting out of town is a little problematic but after a couple of false starts, were off. I've got a small bag, a pillow, a blanket and a supply of "Oreo" cupcakes- Awesome!

After 4 1/3 hours of driving, good conversation and some highly acrobatic driving/texting skills, we arrive in good spirits in Santa Maria, CA at the PCPA theatre festival. Oh fun!

We drive up to see a young man sitting out front with his head bent over a guitar and we both recognize him- GW! Only he's wearing red!?!? RED?!?!? What happened to the perennial black clothing? And boy is he tan? I hardly recognize him. As we park, around comes a zippy little number in oversize black shades and a cute coppery 'do. Breanna! Last time I saw her she was a blonde!

My oh my, how summer stock changes a person! After delivering the cupcakes to the copper cutie- their intended destination, we head in to the theatre for a tour. Our students aka friends (we can call them that during our "not at work" weekend) tour us about the space showing off their work and what they think is silly and what they like. I have fun guessing what type of tech we are meeting- stage manager? lighting guy? They view us with polite disinterest. Typical.

After a bit, GW has to head off to work at the out door theatre in Solvang so Bree takes us on a tour of the "shops"- scene, costume and props. Neat- I laugh at the predictable nature of the costume shop. They eye us with less-than-polite disinterest. Again, typical. Oddly I have found that, with a few exceptions (you know who you are) most costume shop techs are bitter queens. It's true, I swear- the men and the women- it's almost funny to watch.

We realize that we have time for a quick bite before we head out to see the show, but we should drop off our stuff first. GW had said we could stay with him as Bree had 25 roommates. So Bree directs me out to BFE Orcutt (not orchid like I originally thought) to a small, well landscaped trailer park the doesn't allow jogging. Darn there went my plans!

GW is renting a "room" from a sweet little old lady in a double wide- yup that's right double wide, complete with stuffed crow and knick-knacks. Said sweet little old lady has a pet tarantula much to G (Spiders scare the hell -out of me and make me scream like a girl) W. Well, we all have our quirks.

Bree lets us into the small apt/room to drop off our stuff. We see a tidy little room with a four poster bed and an ivy comforter- so NOT GW. After a brief voyeuristic look into GW's bedroom psyche- Jack Skellington sheets and a collection of Buffy and Angel DVDs- we head out for that quick bite.

We choose a small dining establishment called Jack's in the middle of "Downtown Orcut". Inside was like stepping back into 1954. Complete with grey pot roast and the ubiquitous brown gravy and mashed potatoes served with a side of mushy veggies, by a waitress with big hair and red lipstick. (Ok, so I'm exaggerating a bit- there was no lipstick, but still) All in all, an ok meal except for Sara's. Poor Sara- all she wanted was some meat-free spaghetti- but oh no! Jack's didn't know Jack about labeling his menu- (And I've learned a thing or 2 about labeling menus)"Flo" brought her spaghetti and meat sauce NOT spaghetti and marinara as labeled. Damn- so after a large salad (hold the bacon please!) and some hot cocoa, we quit Jack's dining establishment.

Our bellies mostly full and time running out we zip off to Bree's for a quick stop then on South to Solvang. As we wind our way down the 101 we laugh and giggle about things not fit for "table discussion". We exit at Solvang and drive into the entirely too Dutch and too cute town.

We meet up with GW for another tour- I saw his hot box, gave him some "food for thought" and then it's time for the show. We girls snuggle up in our blanket, and watch the drama unfold. During one particularly dramatic moment Sara decides to whisper a particularly un-dramatic bit of funny into my ear. It's all I can do to keep from cackling out loud. I am laughing so hard I'm crying and can't breathe. Bree wants to know whats so damn funny and I can' tell her. I takes me 3 time to finally get it out. I'm lucky I didn't pop a blood vessel!

After dinner and a show, we decide it's time for the traditional after play meal at the traditional place; Denny's. Sara can finally get something to eat and I can get pie! Awesome! Peanut butter and chocolate pie! Not awesome- Damn. The conversation was awesome and so was the company!

So what do 3 crazy girls and a tall, tan and lanky guy do in "Cool Hand Lukes" little town at 12am? Why go to the all night grocery, buy some very adult beverages and head back to Bree's for some more conversation, of course! We decided that we'd best stay at Bree's, 25 roommates or not, because I was likely to wake up "little old lady" with my laughing.

We enter the large house with too many people and too few beds and no clean surface in the kitchen- ah college life! We mix up some beverages with very little ice, and gather round the coffee table and talk, and talk and giggle and talk.

The young'uns decide that at 3:30 they are tired- wimps, and head off to bed. Sara and I amble on back to where we are sleeping and, as is tradition with the sleepover, continue to talk for hours. Luckily this time I don't have my Mom coming in telling us to "Go to sleep or else!" Sometimes being a grownup is awesome. We talk until "0-Dark-Thirty" about all things girls talk about and finally fall asleep.

Around noon we roll out of bed and venture into the living room. We four regroup and decide that food is required- isn't it always! Sara and I, after a quick shower, (separately) get ready to go. We decide on "Red Robin" for lunch. More food, more fun and more witty banter is had by all. The only drawback was the scary "Robin" mascot with chicken legs- creepy.

Then it's time to head home. We drop off our friends and say our good byes. We start back down the 101 towards home and after 4 more hours of driving and talking we arrive back where we started.

I learned many things about my friends this weekend- most of which I can't share. So here's to "menus", rump roast and lemonade. Here's to cupcakes, road trips and a little TMI! And really what's a little TMI among friends?

Thanks Sara, for going with me and thanks GW and Bree for showing us a good time.

I've also learned this truth: a good friend and a full tank of gas are all that is needed for on hell of an adventure!

So... one time... at PCPA....

I am a Grown-Ass Woman!

2006-07-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

You know, for me high school was fairly typical. Some fun, some humiliation, some learning but mostly it was a social exercise. I was learning how to interact with people. College was mostly the same. Except I learned more things about myself; what I could handle and what I couldn't. I learned about how women treat each other- why we're so mean I swear I will never understand. That being said, I am very thankful for the female friends I have now- most of them from college. OK so this isn't a rant about girls- here is my point....Finally.

Why, at 30 years of age, do we still know people (and by people, I mean men) that act like petulant, spoiled 13 year olds? I don't get it? We are "grown up" now for goodness sake. (Just to be clear I am not talking about my hubby :)

How hard is it to be straight forward and honest? Really- do we have to act like we a "super sneaky" when our (and by our I mean his) intentions are so patently clear?

I realize that this is all very confusing and yes, there is a back story- but it really must be told in person.

I find it totally amazing that a "Grown Ass Man" that holds a job and has a mortgage can still act like a child.

I sadly expect childish behavior between girlfriends, but boys (and by boys, I mean BOYS) usually just butt heads and then say, "Ok Dude No big deal". The SILENT TREATMENT is for girls only! Seriously!

No I haven't dropped of the face of the planet but...

2006-07-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

I have been remiss in my blogging.

So what has happened in the last 4 weeks? So much-

We had house guests from Connecticut for a week, Randy and Mary Keinz. We went to the zoo, had bar b ques, saw a great movie, (CARS!!! I loved it!) went to Disneyland and in general, had a great time. :)

My nephew is sort of living with us now- He graduated in June, Thank God! I am so proud of him. So now he is sleeping in our guest room/computer room and helping around the house.

He was just in a baseball tournament. He plays center field and has a wicked throw; twice I saw him throw a guy out at home plate from deep in the out field! He also has a pretty good bat- 4 home runs this summer. He was on the all star team for his district and they won their section. They went on to the sectional tournament and came in 3rd- not bad considering that they had never been that far before!

We spent all of last week shuttling back and forth from here to Bellflower for games. Their last game was on Saturday at 4:00. SO, in 110 degree heat they played, but unfortunately they lost 10-0. Not so great, but hey, that's why the World Series isn't won in 1 game. In baseball the teams are expected to have an off night every now and then.

I was impressed with several of Danny's team mates and with him as well. I was not, however, impressed with the parents of an opposing team. Get this...

Abby, being my expressive daughter, had one heck of a tantrum. We, trying to teach her to be a good human, disciplined her. Randy physically carried her to the car. He put her in the car, WITH THE WINDOWS DOWN OF COURSE! And waited for her to stop screaming and acting like a brat. He stayed right where he could see her.

So this parent came walking by, and then walked by again where he stopped and said, and I quote, "Excuse I'm a pastor and I wanted to make sure the windows were down." As if being a pastor has anything to do with it. Randy said of course they were down. Then the "pastor" said, "Well we have several sets of eyes watching you so just keep it under control."

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT!?!?!? It's not that the man came to check on Abby, we don't have a problem with that, it's that he had the gall to say what he did. Randy did not hit Abby, nor did he lock her in the hot car without air. The guy even cam back to check that everything was "under control".

GRRRR.... Randy was so mad and offended and shaken. He would never do anything to hurt his kids. He has a hard time even spanking them. He is such a good daddy that it was had to be judged like that. I think what made him the most upset was how the guy made a point to say he was a pastor- ok and so you're a pastor, so what? What does that have to do with anything?

So what else?....

We have a patio now! An actual concrete patio- we hope to have the back yard done in time for Abby's birthday so everyone can see it. We even have art on the walls- painted by my mom. (yeah mom!) Curios up in a curio cabinet and china in an honest to goodness china cabinet- We are SO grown up! It actually scares me a bit, me a grown up? Please!

Alexander is still walking all over the place and Abby is getting so close to reading. I am very proud of her.

I am working summer time easy with FRIDAYS OFF!! Awesome. Randy has been working like crazy, eventually I'll get to see him for more than a few hours and just enough time to talk about the bills and say hi.

Well I guess I should actually do some work--- yeah right.

Saying for the month:

"I'm not bitter, I'm right!"
C. Erickson

Hold on to your horses...

2006-06-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a wild ride!

At less than 9 months old my son is WALKING!!!!

Hurray you may say! Wow! Congratulations! OH NO!!!!! Is more like it- Life as I know has changed forever- again. Boy life sure likes to do that.

Alexander is no longer content to sit in one spot, oh no! He needs to be up and moving and preferably right behind his big sister.

Who knows what the next 3 months will bring-

Guido and Vido

2006-05-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

So here they are- "Da' Boys". Danny and his friend Alex. Prom 2006!

Danny asked me to make him a vest and help him with his prom attire- and boy did I have fun. His friend wanted a vest too, so I made them both a vest and took them shopping for the other accoutrement. I surprised them with the hats and they were pleased- They couldn't go without hats- or I'd lose my membership in the costumer club!

I felt so nervous for them both- it's just prom for heavens sake- but it was Danny's first and last prom and I didn't want to embarrass him with bad fashion advice. I think he was pleased.

They look might handsome to me. The thing is, I can remember walking around holding Danny when he was 2 weeks old- 18 years ago- wow, just wait until Abby and Alex go to prom!

Did you know...

2006-04-30T23:21:00.000-07:00

I liked Cate's list so much I wanted to make one of my own- but I didn't want to be a complete copy cat- So I thought I'd write down somethings about me that you may not know.

I have 2 belly buttons- sort of.
I never had braces.
I earned a 97 on my drivers test.
I like historical fiction romances. (Only certain authors)
I once stuck my tounge on a curling iron to see if it was hot. It was.
I've had a paper cut on my eye.
I've had 2 babies and 2 miscarriages.
I once broke the tail of my Father's bosses "mounted fish"- It was on the wall. I never told him.
I hate strawberry ice cream.
I like cheese whiz.
I played the flute.
I almost failed my junior year of english.
Swiss cheese gives me the willies.
I like club soda.
I have a fear of the ocean.
I saw the space shuttle land in 1982- the Columbia. On Edwards Air Force base.

15 things you probably didn't know- or didn't want to know. And yes I'm serious about the Swiss cheese-- ewww!

A few of my favorite things

2006-04-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

I've noticed lately that people are feeling down and insecure- since I am the queen of feeling that way I thought I might try to help the situation. I want to share with you all some of my favorite things.

Favorite Thing #1:

My Hubby-

Randy Lee Erickson is my hubby. We have been married for almost 4 years, been together for 8 and we were sort of high school sweethearts- until he dumped me for another girl right before the dance. But that is another story! And now I like to tease him about it.

Randy was born on April 16, 1974. His hair is brown his eyes are golden brown and he has the cutest dimple on his chin. He is am amazing Daddy, he makes me laugh. His ability to work with mechanical things awes me. Randy is an excellent pilot and makes me feel safe in the air. He loves sports and takes the time to explain them to me. His is also very creative. He can draw and write and he used to play the trumpet. He is an overall interesting and wonderful man.

Favorite thing #2:

My kids- Need I say more. I mean really- They just amaze me! How did I get so lucky?
Wow!

I love how smart Abby is and how it feels when she cuddles with me. I love to watch her grow and become a neat little human. Alexander is only 7 months old but such a trip! He has his own personality and continues to grow every day. I am so lucky!

Favorite Thing #3: My Friends!

Dani- My Bestest Buddy in the Pea Pod
She is a beautiful friend that I have know since 1992. Her red hair days. She has an amazing voice, is wonderfully creative and makes me laugh. In fact, it is a little known fact that "we are funny dammit!". Our lives have many similar parallels and she is like a sister to me.

Cate- The Amazing Catherine!
She is truly Amazing. What I don't get is why she doesn't know it. I find her faith in God an excellent example. She can sew circles around me. She always has a kind word for me and is an awesome cheerleader. We went to Cal Poly together and got to design together. She has the most amazing smile that just lights up a room. Plus, she loves cherry limeades like I do! (And she didn't kill me for ACT- she really should have!)

Shera- Princess of Power!
She is one of my oldest and dearest friends! We went from the hell of middle school all through high school together. AND we still like each other. :) She is so creative and funny. She can sing and act. She is a scrapbooking queen. I feel so lucky to still have her in my life. She probably knows more about me than is healthy! Whenever we are together it is like we were never apart. I love her laugh. I miss her in silly ol' Reno. ROAD TRIP! SO...

Kathy- "We are So going to Vegas!"
She is my "college" friend. We have had too much fun with cherries and tequila. She amazes me with her energy and creativity. She can draw anything! She is a great actress! She can sing! A triple threat. We always have fun together and we can always share fun and intimate stories. She is incredibly funny. We so need a girls night!

All of my friends are AMAZING to me and help to make my life a better and happier world. I know I can always count on them I hope they know they can always depend on me.

These are a few of my favorite things! More to come...

"CAR"MA

2006-04-11T23:18:00.000-07:00

I think I owe my parents an apology, in fact I know I do. I personally think it's a miracle that my parents are here with us today. 14 years ago I put my parents through the most harrowing experience of a parents life; I learned how to drive. At the time I thought they were over reacting to everything I did and that they just didn't trust me to "take care of business". BOY WAS I WRONG.

Last week I took my 18 year old nephew to get his driver's permit. He passed, barely- he missed 6 questions. 6! I weep, apparently the young man before him missed 13- for the love of.... but I digress. So he passed and I, in my naivete, decided to let him drive. He did well at first, a little jerky but ok. It wasn't until later, when he was driving for my husband with me in the back seat, that I almost had my first honest-to-god heart attack.

Stop signs were viewed as mere suggestions and the gas pedal was intimate friends with my floorboard. Yes I am exaggerating, but not by much. I think that when he got in front of Randy his testosterone kicked in and he had to be "cool". Sacred the ever lovin pee out of me- twice!

He calmed down and actually did rather well but, oh my! I seriously think it was a miracle I didn't "drive" my parents to an early grave. The scary part is that he was given a 1969 Mustang for Christmas. He wants to drive it so badly- I only hope he figures out that red means stop, green means go and yellow doesn't always mean go like a bat out of hell!

Talk about Karma.

Who told!?!?!?!

2006-03-30T21:30:00.000-08:00

OK WHO TOLD?!!

I just happened to take a look see at my Blog profile and do you know what I found? It lists me as 30 years old!

Ok- so I am thirty, but who told my blog. I know I gave it my birthday when I signed up, but I don't remember checking the "Tell everyone I'm no longer 29 box" on this thing. I mean really, that's just rude. It should have changed to "Old enough to vote" or "Old enough to know better" before telling everyone I am 30!

OH the betrayal! What else will it tell everyone about me? I shudder to think and apologize for the rudeness of my blog in advance.

I guess I can take some comfort in the fact that my blog isn't telling me it needs updating . I just hope I never get a message asking me, "What are you doing Cat? Cat?" I guess as long as my blog's name isn't HAL I'll be ok.

Just be careful what you tell this thing- it's a blabbermouth!

LOOK OUT!!!

2006-03-30T20:55:00.000-08:00

Ok to be honest, I stood him up at the table, BUT he is holding himself up and he is so close to cruising it's scary. I can't believe that at 6 3/4 months Alexander is already crawling and trying to stand- just wait until I get a stink bug picture. He sticks his bum up in the air and puts his head on the ground. He is so funny.

He is staring to verbalize some and is repeating motions like banging on the table. His 2 bottom teeth are fun if you happen to get bit. So far he is still on baby food and special formula, but he eats cheerios NO Problem!

He is more fun than a barrel of monkeys, but I can already see why my father has always said boys belong in a barrel!

Trixie!

2006-03-30T20:54:00.000-08:00

There are days when my daughter decides that she wants to have 3 pony tails. One on each side and one on top. On those days she likes to be called "Trixie"! I have no idea why, but I am pleased to see her use her imagination. When she is Trixie she likes to be silly and playful- as seen here in her close up.

When this was taken I decided to wear my hair in pig tails too- but there were only 2 for me- I draw the line at the third, I mean really.

THANK YOU!!

2006-03-22T22:08:00.000-08:00

For my 30th birthday my hubby and dear friends gave me party- A SURPRISE PARTY!

I was in total oblivion about it too. I had NO clue! How awesome. I was so awed by the fact that my friends would go so far to make a great day for me. My word of the day was Oh my god! OH my God! OH MY GOD!!!!! My friend from Washington came, my friend from Reno came and my sister came from Arizona. WOW!

I spent the first part of my day with my best friend Cate at the Huntington Library for tea- we love tea. It snowed on our way to Pasadena, yes you read right it snowed, in FONTANA! When we had finished our tummy stuffing tea, Cate slipped on her dark shades and handed me an envelope. Inside my envelope was a "Mission" for me to undertake- My best friend Dani had set up an elaborate clue hunt through Pasadena for me. I thought that she and Cate had collaborated long distance to make it fun for me.

Much to my surprise when we got home the party began. I had so much fun and was so happy to see all of my friends from school, from work and my family.

I hope that all of my friends now how important they are to me.

Thank you Dani!
Thank you Cate!
Thank you Shera!
Thank you Kathy!
Thank you Randy!

Thank you, thank you, thank you......

I love you all.

Greetings from the ends of the earth!

2006-03-04T10:30:00.000-08:00

No I haven't fallen off the face of the planet. I have been transported to the seedy realms of Transylvania!

I have been caught in the Time Warp. I have been so up to my ears in ruffled panties, corsets, and early 20th century horror creatures that I have had no sense of time.

So if you'll follow my ramble just a step to the right.... you'll find you're self with me, preparing for my 1st dress of... you've guessed it... The Rocky Horror Show.

We open on March 10th. Tickets are going fast. We have a midnight show on March 17th.

I hope to see you all at the Frankenstein place- it's sure to be a gas!

Mc Dreamy v. Mc Steamy

2006-02-20T20:00:00.000-08:00

Hmmm.... Which Big Mac is the best? Personally I know that Mc Dreamy is the "better" of the 2, but I always fall for Mc Steamy's line- Hook line and sinker, I am a goner. I do think Mc Dreamy is cuter.

So what does the straw poll say? Mc Dreamy

or Mc Steamy?

AAANEEEEMMAAAALLL!!!

2006-02-20T19:58:00.000-08:00

You Are Animal

A complete lunatic, you're operating on 100% animal instincts.
You thrive on uncontrolled energy, and you're downright scary.
But you sure can beat a good drum.
"Kill! Kill!"

The Muppet Personality Test

Awesome! Thanks Cate for the fun!

Blah, Blah, Blah!

2006-02-12T11:04:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting here at home thinking about all of the work I have to do next week. My weekend goes by so quickly! I worked yesterday and now have to fit all of the chores into tody- by myself, because, of course, my hubby has a trip! Ah life- when work calls, off he goes. No regular 9-5 schedule for my man.

What I've really been thinking about is my friends- I miss them. My friends now live all over the place- Washington, Reno, Lake Forest, Glendora, Colorado, Riverside, Las Vegas....

I MISS MY FRIENDS!!!!

I am getting ready to turn 30 and chances are that I will not see any of my friends to celebrate. One would think that at 30 years old I would be old enough to not worry about that sort of thing. Well tough! I'm not and I'm not going to be happy about it! If I weren't so dignified I just might throw myself on the ground and have a tantrum- how silly.

I realize I am no longer in college and can go down to the local coffe shop to hang out with my friends, but I still want to. I miss being together, laughing about stupid things- doing stupid things. I miss the comraderie so much. Ok now I might cry- even that is easier with my friends.

Well friends- I miss you and I hope you are all well.

Love, Cat

P.S. I need a girls nite like nobody's business!!!

Copy Cat!

2006-02-03T09:21:00.000-08:00

Four jobs you've had in your life:
1: Lox, Stock and Bagel- Selling Bagels
2: Cirque du Soliel- Local Hire Costume Shop
3: CSUSB- Costume Shop Manager (I'm still here!)
4: The best job ever! MOMMY!- This is a lifetime position.

Four movies you could watch over and over: 1: Shakespeare in Love - DUH!
2: The Mummy- Brenden Fraser (again DUH!)
3: Kiss Me Kate- Shakespeare and a Musical- WOW!
4: Pirates of the Caribbean- Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, CORSETS! - Major DUH!

Four places you've lived:
1: Riverside, CA- Growing up
2: Nevada, MO (pronounced NEE-VAY-DUH)- 1st College
3: Pomona, CA- 2nd College
4: South Pasadena, CA- More College

Four TV shows you love(d) to watch:
Old school:
1: Wonder Woman
2: Dukes of Hazzard
Currently:
3: desperate Housewives
4: Grey's Anatomy

Four places you've been on vacation:
1: Alaskan Cruise (Same as Dani- We really are 2 peas in a pod!)
2: London - With my Hubby AWESOME
3: "Back East" Washington DC, New York Connecticut- With the Hubby, Daughter and In-laws long trip but worth it
4: Detroit- For a wedding- fun but not relaxing

Four websites you visit daily:
1: My friend's blogs
2: My email
3: Semi- regularly the USGS site for earthquakes
4: Sorry I only have 3

Four of your favorite foods:
1: Spaghetti with Papa's sauce
2: Chicken and Dumplings made by Mama
3: Sushi
4: Anything I don't have to make or clean up after

Four places you'd rather be: (I rather like where I am, but places I'd like to go are:)
1: England
2: The Caribbean
3: Las Vegas
4: New York (Only to Visit!)

Little Fish- BIG Pond!

2006-01-23T12:07:00.000-08:00

You know I thought we'd one day grow out of all of the silly things we did in high school; the rumors, the power trips, the cliques. Nope- turns out that when we enter the work force the games become more intense and sneakier.

Not that I don't still love my job, but I've been here for a year now, and I am just now sorting out the "office politics". Knowing what to say and what not to say can be difficult. I find it's the passive agressive person that drives me the most insane. I mean really, how hard is it to be straight forward with someone? To be fair, I avoid confrontation like the plague, but some how it still finds me.

Any how, it's interesting being the youngest person in "the office" I have less experience in working world diplomacy. I am closer in age to the students and am trying to find the balance between authority figure and collegue. It is especially hard when the students are older than I am or even the same age. I still don't think some people take me seriously- that's ok, for now. I'm not sure I can take myself seriously. :)

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming... right? Well I guess if I stay in the pond long enough, I will understand the currents and not get caught in the under toe. (Look at me using a metaphor! GO me!)
The problem is, in high school I was never very good at swimming- I might end up sushi yet!

(ooh look more metaphor)

Wanna Catch What I've Got?

2006-01-17T10:46:00.000-08:00

Somethings in life are contagious- colds, laughter and being unhappy. My Mama has said that, "Divorce is contagious". One friend is unhappy and while trying to be the good "sounding board friend", you find that your husband bugs the heck out of you and maybe you should get divorced too! Now that is just silly- but still very true.

I find that if I am around upbeat people I will be up beat, if I am around complainers I will join in with gusto complaining about my life. Seriously- what is wrong with my life- nothing! I love my husband and he loves me, we have two wonderful kids and all the material crap we could ever need. So why complain? I'm not sure really- I've also found that once someone is "on my s**t list" it is very easy to find fault with everything they do- including breathing in my direction. Yes I know, not fair! Not fair but, again- true.

I came in to work today with a smile on my face ready for the week. Part of my routine is to check my work email first thing. One email was titled simply "Augie Hartung" and out of curiosity I opened it. The short email simply said that Mr. Hartung had passed away unexpectedly this past weekend. He was a member of our campus community. Since that time, there have been several emails expressing great saddness and concern for Augie and his family. Each email remembers him with fondness and appreciation. I didn't know him, but I am very touched by his death. It started me thinking, "How would I like to be remembered should I die suddenly?" Certainly not as Ms. Complain-alot or Ms. Difficult.

So know what do I do about it? Well I figure that if I can resist the complaining and promote goodwill perhaps I can make that contagious.

Peaches and Cream

2006-01-16T00:26:00.000-08:00

What a killer smile! Here is Alexander on his first attempt at Peaches. (Well really his 2nd but it is his first in the high chair and his first time holding the spoon by himself) Way more was spit out than went in, but I think it was still a success on the whole. He is now holding his own bottle, which is of great joy to his exasperated and sleep deprived parents- No more holding the bottle at 3 am and being jolted awake by a hungry baby with a bottle up his nose! He has his Daddies dimples and his Grandfather's hair do! Ah the joy of genetics. Luckily he wakes up happy and is starting to sleep in longer chunks at night. As it is I should be sleeping now instead of writing, but I wanted to share.

Darth Vader

2006-01-13T18:57:00.000-08:00

Can I just say how much I love my job!?!

This week I had 3 men try on red patent leather pumps with 4 inch heels. I took 2 students to the local "lotions and lace" to purchase fishnets and feather boas- only to have my school credit card declined. I then had to call purchasing to explain my dilemma- luckily they seem to understand our odd needs and approved the purchase. I've also helped my colleague with the "Phallus Canes" mock up, which consisted of a large wooden dowel and hand sculpted phallus. She chose black clay to create the proto type and her first attempt looked like a very large Darth Vader helmet! Her second draft included the shaft! (Sorry it rhymed)

I can't wait for next week!

Out Smarted by a 3 Year-old

2006-01-05T23:44:00.000-08:00

My daughter is very sly. The other night she decided that she didn't want to sleep in her bed, she wanted to sleep in her tent, on the ground. Ok no big deal, except that she wouldn't go to sleep. So I decided to crawl in next to her and snuggle up so she would go to sleep. It worked like a charm- I passed right out. However, sometime in the night my daughter must have realized that the floor is actually uncomfortable and moved into my room to the California King size bed. I continued to sleep in a ball on the hard floor only to awake to aches and pains and no Abby! Smart girl- she duped Mommy into sleeping on the floor and scored the big bed! I'm going to have to keep and eye on her.

A Little Yeah Me!

2006-01-03T21:25:00.000-08:00

As of today 1-3-2006 I have offically worked for CSUSB for 1 year!

Yeah Me!

No One to Blame But Me

2006-01-03T21:03:00.000-08:00

Ok I did it. I bought the damn playstation for my husband, in fact I have now purchased 2 playstations over the last 5 years. The first one died and I was stupid enough to buy another one.

It's not like I hate the playstation, in fact I like to try my hand and mind numbing hand eye coordination from time to time.

HOWEVER..... I am beginning to despise the stupid thing. It seems to be some kind of new age siren to my husband. He hears the dulcet tones of Madden 2006 and that's it Game Over for me. Hour upon hour on the couch playing football; a CG Jake Plummer versus the entire NFL cadre. As if 16 weeks of real football isn't enough! For those that love the game I understand that it isn't, however when has a false reality become more interesting or seemingly more important than our true reality.

ARGH!!! In an effort to be an understanding wife I have attempted to try to become more involved in the "game" and understand it's rules. To be fair it is much more complex than I had previously assumed. That said- I still hate the damn thing!

Oh well at least when it is "over" I will have hours of CG dog fights, to look forward to! At least that has some kind of story line.

2006-01-02T02:35:00.000-08:00

Me and My Best Girl