Six Word Saturday

looking forward to the new year

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

Twas the weekend before - ready yet?

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

So close - and yet so far

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Update: Ok, so that was about me and Christmas prep.

Here's something I don't do very often but it's six-word related so...

It has come to my attention that a friend has entered some six-word awesomeness in a contest and if you are so inclined, you can help out by voting for SAMANTHA by going here. And if you are NOT so inclined, then don't. And that's fine too. I'm only sharing it because I think her six words for the contest are rather awesome and worth checking out. So if you'd like to click and her words make you happy, let her know with a vote.

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

Tree is up - but still nekkid

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

NOW it's time for Christmas things
or
December 1st - not a day before!!!

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

Still November? Then still too soon.

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

always be specific with your requests

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

I am SO sleeping in today

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

Next week: busier but also better

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Four days out of five

Four days out of five. That might be a new migraine record for me. I don't know how Tuesday (Wednesday?) managed to be pain-free but the rest of the week has made up for it.

The problem with migraines is that it makes doing things with your head both easier and harder at the same time. For example - your eyes detect every hint of light and it hurts. All sounds are super loud and they hurt. The pleasant smell of a flower fills your nose until you feel like your entire world is overrun by this smell and it HURTS.

And let's not talk about thinking. It seems like the human brain should be able to make connections regardless of headaches. Headaches are physical, right? How can thinking hurt?

Trust me, it can. It can hurt a lot. And there's a definite difference between the pain felt when I stare at the wall versus the pain felt when I try to think.

All of this is quite inconvenient when you're trying to work and your work involves seeing and thinking. Not so much smelling or hearing but those things can make the others even worse.

But the good news is that FINALLY the pain seems to have lifted. I can think again! I can smell and see and hear at appropriate levels!

Now let's just hope it stays that way...

It's time

I know I've said it before but this time feels different.

Today, I went to see a new doctor because my previous primary care doctor sucked. Her treatment was so hands-off and old-fashioned. She was great for handing out prescriptions for quick fixes but when I asked to come off a medication or tried to get her to discuss my weight, she had no interest. 

So, new doctor. This one spoke with me at length about my concerns and my medications. She gave me a plan to come off the one med, agreeing that it may have caused my weight gain and could be complicating weight loss. We talked about my frustration at not getting results when I've worked out hard and counted every calorie. She didn't give me magic solutions but she was encouraging. We discussed my anxiety. She also ordered up enough tests to drain half my blood - my old doctor wouldn't order even standard tests.

Another big difference between doctors is access to my information. Here's an example:

me: What's my blood pressure?
old doctor: It's fine.
me: Yes, but what is it?
old doctor: Totally within range, maybe a little low.
me: What's the actual reading?
old doctor: 114/72.

Today? 

me: What's my blood pressure?
new doctor: It's 114/72. That and all of your other info from today is available to you by logging in through our website.

And it was all available. Weight, blood pressure, heart rate. Medications ordered and where (local vs mail order) with links for more information. I also got printouts of our plan for my weight.

I go back on Nov. 30 to see how a new medicine is working for my migraines (they've been bad lately). Today's appointment didn't really tell me anything new but I feel like I have reassurance now from the doctor that I should and can move forward. And I'm determined to do it.

Watch out, world, because I'm about to get my sh*t together.

Six Word Saturday

all i want is to write

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

three hour drive by myself - BORING!

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

shush, birdies, I'm trying to sleep!

And by "birdies" I don't mean joyful little songbirds. I mean crows. CAW CAW!!! CAW CAW!!!

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" ></a>

Six Word Saturday

mentally exhausted - crying's too much effort

Some day I'll get back to blogging.

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Six Word Saturday

what happened to September - gone already?

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Six Word Saturday

this ride needs a pause button

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Six Word Saturday

surprises watching people on the street

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Six Word Saturday

Am I too old for naps?

Or maybe I'm too young.

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Cate's recent cardio activity

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about my eating and exercise choices. Or, rather, I haven't been thinking about them as I should because my choices have been poor.

Exercise is hard work! Also, I don't mind the activity itself so much as I hate sweating. Sweat is not attractive, though I'm trying to adjust my mindset to see sweat as an indication that I'm doing things that are good for me.

This morning, I was thinking a bit about cardio and decided to see if my definition matched that of my BFFs over at Merriam-Webster. Seems the term "cardio" has only been around since about 1991 so they directed me instead to their definition for "cardiovascular":

Main Entry: car·dio·vas·cu·lar
Pronunciation: \ˈkär-dē-(ˌ)ō-ˈvas-kyə-lər\
Function: noun

1. of, relating to, or involving the heart and blood vessels
2. used, designed, or performed to cause a temporary increase in heart rate (a cardiovascular workout)

So here's what I'm trying to figure out in my head. If I perform an action that causes a temporary increase in heart rate, does that count as my cardio workout for the day?

I ask because the most commonly performed task in this house lately seems to involve dealing with cockroaches. I can assure you that this definitely increases my heart rate. All I have to do is look at one and my heart speeds up. And then there are the activities involved in removing said critter from the inside of my home.

This morning's adventures (I will spare you the horrific details - you're welcome!) increased my heart rate almost to the point of achieving panic attack status. Complete with shallow breathing and sweat, followed with a feeling of complete exhaustion afterwards.

Sounds like a cardio workout to me!

P.S. Cats are worthless.
P.P.S. Traveling husbands are also worthless in this situation.
P.P.P.S. Is it considered cheating on you husband if you have an affair with a neighbor for the lone purpose of having someone to remove bugs and such from your home while your husband travels? I'm asking for a friend...

Six Word Saturday

more bugs inside - burn house down?

I pay money to people to do things so I don't have bugs inside my house. And I called and complained because there were bugs in my house and they sprayed things and STILL there are bugs. In my house. Does someone need a punch in the face? Because it can be arranged.

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Six Word Saturday

almost forgot about Six Word Saturday

I'd say at least 25% of the time, I head for bed on a Friday night and realize I haven't set up a 6WS post for the next morning. And since it posts at 3:02am my time, that's no good. Tonight was one of those nights. Good thing for me I remembered - now you can all have fun while I sleep in!

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Six Word Saturday

learned an expensive lesson this week
or
always get the agreement in writing

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

An update on writing

I announced a couple of weeks ago that I would be blogging less frequently so I could focus on writing. Since then, I've had a few people ask how that's going.

So, here's how it's going.

I have, indeed, started writing again. And it felt glorious. Then I got very busy with paying clients. The good news is that I really missed writing while I was working on other things.

This week, Joe is away for work and I had big plans to write a LOT. So far, I've done just that. I have over 8k words so far since he left Sunday night. And when he gets back, I intend to keep writing regularly.

I need to remember how important that outlet is for me. I need to remember that this is a major goal that I've wanted to reach for a very long time and it's within site if I can just keep going.

What I'm working on right now is a novel. But I'm already forming plans for the book that will follow its completion. I think having a second project I'm looking forward to writing will encourage me to keep going on the current project, which I'm also enjoying very much.

I tweeted a few days ago that when I write a little, it makes me want to write a lot. It's an amazing feeling to have that desire. For me, it's a bit like the "runner's high" Joe describes after completing a hard run. Just, with less sweating.

What Joe's new job has taught me

During the last 6+ weeks since Joe started his new job, I've learned a lot of things I didn't realize before.

1. We have very different working styles. He likes loud music with words. I like quiet music with no words, if I have any music at all because generally, I prefer it to be quiet.

2. He's gone a lot - except for when he isn't. Well, duh, Cate. But what I mean is that he does travel a lot for work. But when he isn't traveling, he works at home. So it's feast or famine. Either 24/7 Joe or 24/7 no Joe.

3. We can only plan about a week in advance, which I can't blame as much on him as I thought I could. During the week, we can't plan much because he could have to leave at any time to go see a client, though generally we know this week what will be happening next week. Approximately. So I can blame his work for not being able to make plans! Except, his company is really great about getting their consultants home on the weekends and not expecting them to work during that time. But guess who almost always works nights and weekends? Yeah, me... We've turned down plans as often lately because of my contract as we have his job.

Overall, it didn't take long for me to adapt to his frequent travels. For the first four weeks, he traveled two-four days at a time every week. The last two weeks, he's been at home. It's been kind of nice, but I'd be lying to say I'm not going to enjoy some time to myself while he travels again this week.

Six words, breakfast pizza, and a recipe

Who knew yesterday's six words would lead to so many questions?

Yes, breakfast pizza makes my mouth happy. And in the hopes it will make your mouth happy too, I'll share the basics of the recipe here.

You will need:

puff pastry dough
creme fraiche
cheese
toppings

Roll out the pastry dough, brush the edges with eggwash (I use Egg Beaters), poke a zillion holes in the middle of the dough so only the edges get puffy, forming a crust. Put it in an oven at 350 for 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook because it's going back in.

While the dough is in the oven, get your other toppings ready. Bacon, sausage, ham, mushrooms, peppers, tomatoes, spinach, scrambled eggs - whatever you might use in an omelette can go on your pizza. The original recipe calls for no scrambled eggs but instead cracks a couple of eggs on top of all the other toppings. Spread creme fraiche on dough, add your toppings of choice, and apply liberal melty cheese.

Liberal amounts of melty cheese, I mean. I don't like my cheese getting all political, especially before I've had coffee. Try gouda, cheddar, feta, swiss; whatever makes you happy.

Pop it back in the oven at 350 for another 5-7 minutes. However long it takes for the cheese to melt (and for the egg to firm up if you crack a whole egg on top).

Slice and serve.

For the record, leftover pizza can also be eaten for breakfast but I just call that leftover pizza. There were some questions about that. But yesterday's words referred to the fact that I was serving brunch for some of Joe's friends and I don't usually serve cold leftover pizza to company. Though it's not a bad idea...

Six Word Saturday

breakfast pizza makes my mouth happy

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Six Word Saturday

kind of ready for a break

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Summer Camp

By which I mean, of course, not an actual camp in the traditional, exciting, s'mores sense. No, I don't seem to be a fan of doing things the expected way. Mostly because I'm a fan of electricity, air conditioning, indoor plumbing, and bug-free sleeping environments.

What I mean is that I usually try to blog twice a week, plus Six Word Saturday. And I'm giving myself specific permission not to do that for the next 30ish days because I'll be camping. Not literally. I will be writing as part of Camp NaNoWriMo, which is a lot like regular NaNoWriMo (November) but with higher temperatures and more teens.

I'm going to be working on my novel for the next month and that's the only writing I want to focus on. If I'm inspired to write something else, yay. If not, yay. I've been a little frustrated with blogging lately anyways - I struggle to post but then when I do, there's little response (except for 6WS, which is the exception to just about every rule).

And, let's be honest, there are two main camps of bloggers: those who do it as a therapeutic exercise and those who do it for the comments. Sure, some of pitch tents in both camps from time to time but for me, I mostly blog to connect with people and lately, I'm not feeling it. Which is more me than you, I'm sure. Whatever, that's not the point. The point is that I've had a lot of editing work to do lately and I'm planning to spend my free time writing.

So, I'm off to figurative camp. I'll post sometimes. I'll post Saturdays. And then I'll probably post again more regularly in September. In the meantime, I'm very excited about the idea of having a very rough draft of my novel completed by September 1st.

Enjoy the end of summer, however you choose to spend it!

Six Word Saturday

very busy working - and loving it!

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

La Cucaracha

This happened yesterday morning while Joe was still other-coasting it for work.

me: Can our pest control do anything about cockroaches?
Joe: Ugh, another one?
me: Yeah, in the downstairs bathroom sink. I went in to check my face quick before I left and it was in there looking at me.
Joe: I'm sorry, I'll call tomorrow. What did you do?
me: I put on some water.
Joe: You mean, you sat down and had tea?
me: No, ew, I don't drink tea.
Joe: I don't follow.
me: I put on some water. Got it all boiling hot. Poured it down the sink. Goodbye Mr. Bug!
Joe: Seriously?
me: Seriously.
Joe: Why didn't you just squish it?
me: Ewww. That's even nastier than drinking tea.

Bugs should not be allowed to invade the house ever, but especially not when husbands are away.

P.S. Generally, I'm a non-violent person, even to bugs, (in practice anyways, not so much in words) but creepy bugs inside my house don't belong there. And if Joe's not home to catch and release, I do what I have to do to protect me and my kitties.

A test for you

Don't worry, this test is multiple choice. You may begin at any time.

You are a Toyota Prius. You beep and display the "low fuel" light. Fifteen miles later, having not passed a single gas station, you start to feel desperate. Do you:

a) beep again, more urgently,
b) display a warning message that "Failure to add gas immediately may result in battery damage and a visit to the dealer,"
c) keep operating normally until you actually run out of gas and stall,
or
d) light up warnings on the dashboard for: VSC (vehicle stability control), brakes, engine, service, and wheels while emitting a high-pitched alarm and flashing "PROBLEM, PROBLEM, PROBLEM!" causing your driver to pull to the side of the road immediately, proceed down the shoulder at 15 mph to the nearest travel station, fill the tank, drive 50mph the remaining 80 miles home with no a/c (because it could be battery-related), and schedule an appointment at the dealer the next day only to be officially diagnosed with having low fuel?

Yeah, I bet you all got it right.

P.S. Stupid car.
P.P.S. The important part is that we got home safely.
P.P.P.S. It's a relief that the car did not need an expensive repair.
P.P.P.P.S. Joe has the best Toyota dealer in the world - they didn't charge us for the visit.
P.P.P.P.P.S. Stupid car.

Don't try this at home

Recent chat with my husband, me at home, him at an airport on the way to somewhere...

me: Be right back, going to shower quick before it storms.
Joe: It's already storming, you should wait.
me: Only a little. It's going to get worse so I'll go now and be fast.
Joe: You should wait until it stops.
me: That's going to be a long time!!!
Joe: Yes, but I don't want you to get electrocuted.
me: Pfft. How many people have you heard of that actually happening to?
Joe: None.
me: See?
Joe: Because nobody is dumb enough to shower during a storm.

I'm sure he thinks he won this one. Except what he doesn't know (unless he reads my blog, which he never does) is that I went and showered anyways.

And totally didn't die.

I win.

Six World Saturday

something wrong with the world today
i don't know what it is

Today's six words x2 brought to you by the esteemed philosophers otherwise known as Aerosmith. I'm writing my 6WS post, as usual, on Friday so it can be ready for all of you late-nighters/early-risers. And the news this morning is heartbreaking. As it often is, which is why I'm often guilty of ignoring the news as much as possible. Which is why it's kind of bizarre that I'm working a contract that involves me spending 40+ hours a week monitoring the news.

Anyways, please be kind to each other. Which is six words. I probably should've just gone with that...

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Someone like me

Know how small electrical appliances have bizarre warnings on them and you always think - who in the world would do something so stupid? because you know SOMEONE must've done it. And probably sued and won a bazillion dollars and now they have to put the warnings on there.

I'm talking about the hairdryer that specifies "Do not use in bath." Or, the label on peanut butter that says "WARNING: May contain nuts." Or the coffee that says "Contents may be hot."

So, coming soon to a store near you, a sports bra that says "WARNING: failure to wear correctly may result in chafing across the chest that looks like a horizontal surgical cut and no amount of aloe or antibiotic ointment or anything else you think of to put on it will make the burning stop."

And when you see that and you think what IDIOT managed to pinch the skin in their sports bra in such a way that this happened?, you can think of me. Because if it wasn't me personally, it was someone like me.

Also?

Ouch.

The elephant in the room...

...it's me! No, that's probably not indicative of a positive self-image but I'm being realistic here. I'm a smart, funny, amazing person - who happens to be carrying around 100 extra pounds. So by calling myself an elephant, I'm just making light of the fact that I'm not at all light.

Anyways!

Yesterday started Plan #1222. Why Plan #1222? I figure I've had at least 1221 plans before that haven't worked. Plus, 1222 is the number of calories livestrong.com says I'm allowed to eat in order to lose 2 lbs a week. I'd rather lose about 50 lbs a week and be done with it but apparently there's no healthy way to do that. So, instead, Plan #1222. Counting calories, working out, vitamins, 64 oz of water.

I hate counting calories. HATE! But I've found it's the best way to hold myself accountable. It also motivates me to go to the gym to "earn" extra calories. That's important to me, not just so I can eat more but because I really believe that regardless of your weight (probably the more you weigh, the more this is true), regular exercise is good for your heart and lungs and other parts and functions. It's good to stimulate the old ticker every so often! By counting calories, I'm more likely to go to the gym and use the elliptical for an hour than if I'm doing some eating plan that says "eat everything you want but it has to be this or that!"

I had a good start yesterday. Though I felt hungry a lot, I managed to do 45 minutes on the elliptical (not the hour I was doing at my peak but not bad for the first time back in awhile) and end the day well below my calorie limit. Today, I'm going to ride my recumbent bike at home I think, so I can go to the gym again tomorrow when I'm not working.

This is just one more piece of the puzzle as I work towards World Domination. And a healthier me. Lately, I've been making progress on a lot of those pieces. I'm excited to see what the final picture looks like once I have them all assembled!

me: I did great drinking today! Just finished 32 oz now, plus I drank 40 oz at the gym.
Joe: You drank 40 oz of gin?

My husband, ever supportive, ever sidetracked with his own things.

Six Word Saturday

feels so good to be plotting

My novel, that is. And also still working on world domination.

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

A Question of Duty

Since I've been so awesome at completing my to-do lists lately (hence my 6WS post), I didn't want to let today's streak end my amazing run. Besides, it wasn't that I was lazy. I just spent most of the day working on a project that I had intended to spread out over several days.

All of which leaves me at 8pm wondering if it's ok not to finish my list for today because I worked on a MAJOR project from days ahead.

Don't worry - I don't need you to weigh in. I'm determined to finish everything on my list. And one of those things included "post on SMF." It didn't say "post something brilliant on SMF."

Checking that one off my list...

Six Word Saturday

productive week behind, productive week ahead

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

And so it begins

Today is the first at-home day of Joe's new job. I've been working from home now for quite awhile and I've become accustomed to having the place to myself during the day. And he's been accustomed to an often lousy commute to an office where he ran from meeting to meeting with some periods of time in his cubicle in the middle of a noisy space.

This is going to be a big change for both of us. But I'm excited for it to be a good change. This is one of those examples of a time when our attitude and approach can make a big difference.

We are fortunate that our home is large enough to provide us with separate work spaces. An upstairs bedroom serves as his office and he can close the door. We also have a bonus room over the garage where my craft desk and work desk are located. And then there's the downstairs where I sometimes go to escape the heat (the bonus room is poorly insulated).

He actually started the new job on Monday. He traveled to meet his boss and his boss's boss for two days of orientation. It's already clear that this job is going to require a lot of flexibility and ability to roll with the circumstances (something I'm not exactly known for). Monday night, he told me he'd be working from home all next week. Tuesday at noon, we found out they're putting him on a project that will involve travel the first part of the week. This is apparently typical.


I think the biggest key to making this work for both of us will involve respect. We both need to respect boundaries and space. We need to not interrupt. We need to be aware that we have different working styles. We need to both kind of go about our day individually while being aware that we aren't the only ones working in this space. And we're both going to need to locate our headphones. 


Communication will be important too. Yay for living in a digital age - we have a shared online space that we use to communicate a lot of those little things that come up during the day. You don't want to forget them, but you also don't want to interrupt to share them RIGHT NOW! They don't usually require immediate attention so on the list they go for whenever the other person has the time to look them over. We use similar tools to keep track of things that need to be done to the house, items to pick up at the grocery store, etc. It's worked for us in the past so I'm hoping it keeps working.

It's going to be a very all-or-nothing situation with this job. Forget going into the office in the morning and coming home at some point in the evening. He's either going to be here all day or he's going to be gone all day. Good times...

Anyone out there who works from home or has a spouse working from home or you're both home during the day or he travels? Any tips for making this a productive experience? 

Why I'm a Cat Person

File this under "Things I wouldn't know without Twitter."

A twitter conversation yesterday resulted in a serious "a-ha!" moment. That moment? The realization of why I am a cat person and not so much a dog person.

Warning: it's about to get a little EWWWW up in here.

Melinda's hungry dog decided to help himself to a snack from her toddler's little potty. And, because this is why Twitter exists, she shared her disgust with the rest of us. Which reminded me of the day my dog puked. And then ate it.

Cats may have their own issues but I've never seen a cat do either of those things. Which is why I am a cat person.

P.S. This post was for tomorrow. But I'm a moron and clicked "Publish" instead of "Save" and then I reverted back to draft but it was too late because it went via RSS so you can all read it anyways so WHATEVER. FINE. Have the post. See if I care.

P.P.S. But I'm not posting again tomorrow. Unless I'm a moron again.

P.P.P.S. It's entirely possible that if I'll be a moron again tomorrow.

Pointless

Today, like most days, I feel the urge to blog. Today, like most days, no real idea what to blog about. Or what purpose to serve. So I'm going to ramble a bit.

Joe started his new job this morning. He had all of last week off which was great because he needed the break. However, since it was so last-minute, we weren't able to plan anything exciting. Also, I had planned on him being away all week originally so I went from "no husband!!!" to "all husband all the time!!!".

I love my husband. But I think (for various reasons) we were both happy for him to be out of town today and tomorrow starting the new job.

While he's gone, I'm trying to do ALL THE THINGS!!! (It also appears I am trying to use ALL THE EXCLAMATION POINTS!!! and ALL THE SHOUTY CAPITAL LETTERS!!!) Nothing too exciting - it's too hot here to do anything too exciting. But I'm finishing some projects and starting some projects and generally taking care of business. Which feels amazing.

I thought I might post about my sick cat (Tonya) or not having insurance for the first time in almost 14 years or how this is a whole new beginning for both of us so I'm excited to also take advantage of it or how I need to lose 97 pounds so is it just better to say 100 or how I had a total panic attack Saturday that was originally about lack of insurance but progressed until I was freaking out about being fat and dying alone and wanting my missing sweater. Any of that sound interesting?

Probably not-so-much. Which is why I've been blogging a lot lately. Welcome to being me.

Six Word Saturday

a good weekend to stay inside

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

Six Word Saturday

Who turned on the heat outside?

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

<a href="http://www.showmyface.com/search/label/6WS"><img src="http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp35/showmyface/guts/6wsButton.jpg" /></a>

On Self-Help Books and Advice and My Dad

I also said in that post last week that I'd address how I tackle self-help books/instructional guides/how-tos.

The short version is that I treat them as speed limits - they're just suggestions and you have to figure out what works for you. Ha! But, really, in most cases, the material you're reading or listening to is describing a method that works for someone. Maybe for many someones. You've got to adapt that to your situation. If a program says you have to journal every morning but you find you do better at night? Do it at night. If a recipe calls for pecans but you prefer walnuts? Use the walnuts. There are times when it's appropriate to follow a method exactly (brain surgery or working with electricity maybe) but that's not what we're talking about here.

My dad has shared with me two really great bits of wisdom. First, it's a good idea to ask many people for their advice - and then you think about it all and do what you want. Second, just because a decision seems wrong to you doesn't mean it's wrong for someone else. Pretty good stuff, huh? My dad's a good guy. He also told me to never travel without TUMS but that's not as relevant here.

I don't take every bit of advice I'm given. But it's great to seek answers and new ideas and other viewpoints. So many times, someone has pointed out an issue or possible solution that hadn't occurred to me. Then we assimilate that information into our own little world and do with it what we may.

So really this post is mostly about nothing but since I said I'd write about it and then I took the trouble to draft it, I figured I'd go ahead and publish it. And since it's my blog, that's what I'm going to do.

Spirituality in The Artist's Way

In my review for the "My Artist's Way Toolkit," I mentioned that the book and accompanying site had a spiritual aspect to them that I would address at a later time. That post was already far too long.

Before beginning The Artist's Way book, I noticed the subtitle, A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity. Wanting to know what that meant, I did a little digging. The book has multiple references to God. The author of The Artist's Way, Julia Cameron, is most likely a Christian. I'm not sure if she ever states that outright. 

However, on the first pages of the book, she addresses the way in which she is using God and suggests ways for others to think about it. If a religious God isn't your thing, she recommends thinking of God instead as the Universe or whatever higher power you do believe in or even as an acronym for "good orderly direction."

This worked for me. I was raised in a strict, conservative, Christian home. As an adult, I'm not sure how I would define my beliefs exactly. I believe in something. I believe in treating others with kindness. I believe in a certain moral code. I believe in allowing others to live within theirs. So substituting the Universe whenever she referenced God was okay for me. The Universe provides me with creative ideas. That kind of thing.

So to my friends who asked for a report regarding the spirituality aspect of the book, I can say that for me, it was okay. I think she actually managed to present the ideas in a manner that could work for most people, which I'd imagine was tricky. If that concession of substituting your own idea for God isn't something you're comfortable with, or if you don't believe in any kind of higher power or general order, it might be more difficult.

I also said in that other post that I'd address how I tackle self-help books/instructional guides/how-tos. I'll do that tomorrow or Friday.

Resolution

Saturday's six words (Finally, a resolution! I'm so excited!) came with a promise to share a few more details.

My husband has been interviewing for a new job for what feels like forever. Especially to him. And after almost an entire month of negotiating, he finally accepted a new position! He gave his notice last Monday and starts a week from today.

The new job will mean quite a bit of travel for him. We don't know exactly how much but depending on projects, it could be up to 90%. I'd rather he not travel that much but here's the good part - we don't have to relocate from our undisclosed location. Some positions he interviewed for would've required moving to a new city and THEN he'd have to travel all the time. No thanks! You want to send my man all over, that's one thing. But at least leave me where I know my way around!

So really the news only kinda qualifies as news. For me, it's not much of a change. But I don't do well when life is in such a state of flux. Remember Destination Resignation for me? Joe said - don't get another job because we may be moving soon if I find something out of the area. That was in November of 2010, 18 months ago. Yeah, this has been a long time coming. It was a long time of not being able to commit to things too far in the future, which really screwed with my anxiety.

My blogging has really fallen off lately, mostly because the closer we got to a decision, the more I couldn't concentrate on much of anything. But it's all decided now. New job for Joe. A bit of a new start for me. A time of being able to make commitments and get involved in things without worrying we'll be moving at a moment's notice. And hopefully great things (and more blog posts) to come!

Thanks to everyone who has encouraged or distracted or listened or searched or commiserated during this time - I'm currently breathing a huge sigh of relief and feeling a bit of peace.

Ahh, resolution...

Six Word Saturday

Finally, a resolution! I'm so excited!

More details next week.

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Want to play along? All that's necessary to participate is to describe your life (or something) in a phrase using just six words. For more information, try clicking here. Feel free to explain or not explain. Add an image, a video, a song, nothing. I love seeing what everyone does with their entries.

Each week (probably on Sunday or Monday), I use random.org to select a bunch of entries to visit.  Or I visit everyone. Or even numbered entries. Or odd numbered entries. Or multiples of three. Depends on what's going on that week.  In addition, please visit the person ahead of you on the list (or visit everyone if you like!). That way everyone receives at least one visit!

If you play along in your blog, please add a link to the Mr. Linky. I appreciate a link back (shiny code below if you like!). Otherwise, you're welcome to leave your six words in this post as a comment.

Please be sure to link either to your main page or (preferably) directly to the 6WS post. Links to blogs that do not contain a 6WS entry will be removed (sorry, just the button in the sidebar doesn't count as participating).

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