I got a moving violation (aka ticket) in May 2007. I completed online traffic school in September to take the point off my record. Last time I took online traffic school, the school sent my certification of completion to the court. This time they did not and I was supposed to do that. MY FAULT. I didn't realize my error until The Man put me on his insurance and wanted to know why I had a point on my record which made insuring me super expensive. A month before we got married, I called the DMV to find out if I had a point on my record. "Oh yes," the woman told me. "Let me show you which form you need to print off our website and submit with your certification of completion."
Sweet, right?
Yah. Not so effin' sweet.
I called the DMV yesterday because I never received any confirmation they received my certificate of completion and The Man wanted to give my now clean record to the insurance so they could change how much he pays. The person from the DMV told me that I wasn't supposed to send it to the DMV but to the court. I told him that one of his colleagues (because OF COURSE I didn't get the name) instructed me to fill out a specific document and mail it to Sacramento back in March.
"Yahhhhh, you weren't supposed to do that."
He told me to call the court because I should have mailed the certificate to them and they were the only ones that would be able to fix this. Then he gave me a phone number to call the court.
It didn't work.
Fan-flippin-tastic.
I call the number that the outgoing message said to call.
That didn't work.
Finally I google-ed (bless the Google) the City of Fremont Court and called. And spoke to a meeeaaan lady. She curtly said that the DMV has a policy that allows only six months to correct an error. According to their records, I had six months from October 2007. Keep in mind that had I sent the form to the court and not the DMV in March, I would have made that deadline. But I didn't. Because someone at the DMV had told me different.
Of course, the court lady could give two $hits about my predicament. She said there was nothing they could do and that I need to call the DMV.
"But I just called the DMV and they told me to call you!"
She replied (bitchily ... if that was a word) that it's the DMV's policy so I would have to take it up with them.
I called back the DMV and got someone with a thick accent. Now, I pride myself in being an open minded individual who embraces all cultures and am very understanding that with each culture there are different communication styles - I could write an entry all about that, it's really quite fascinating but off topic so back to the story - however, this man was a shouter. Which, like I just wrote, kind of goes with some communication styles of other ethnicities but this was not a time where I embraced such diversity.
It just riled me up more.
I explained the same story for the third time. He was good in the way that he shortened but repeated to me what I had said to make sure he understood. Then he told me that there was nothing the DMV could do and that it was up to the court to let re-open my case. He told me I should request to speak to a judge.
"I should what? How would I even get to see a judge?"
He said that I should tell the court my situation and ask the judge to make an exception. Because there was nothing he could do.
"Do you understand?" he asked.
I told him yes.
And then he hung up. No good luck, no good bye, no nothing. He just hung up.
Sweet Mary.
I called the court for the second time and told my story for the FOURTH time. Of course, I have to also add the information of all the conversations I had throughout the day. She told me that they no longer had my records and there wasn't a way for a judge to see me. And, as kindly as possible, she told me that I was screwed.
She actually wasn't mean and I really appreciated it. But she told me that there was nothing that the court could do and if the DMV wasn't willing to do anything, I would have this on my record until October 2010.
So that was that.
Two hours and four pain-in-my-ass calls later, there was nothing more to be done.
And now I totally get why people hate government offices like the DMV.
Note: This is from a child of a US Postal Worker. I don't necessarily hate the people but I sure hate the system.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Monday, July 21, 2008
A nice weekend
How was your weekend? Ours was very nice. Vero and her hubby came to visit and the liquor was flowing ... in a respectable fashion. :) They are fantastic house guests and The Man was happy to see his best friend. We drank, we ate, we played games, we drank ... lots of fun. Thanks for visiting us!
After they left, The Man pleaded with me to go with him to San Francisco to run an errand. I was pooped and didn't want to go but he bribed me by saying we could bring the pups. I'm glad I went with him because he was picking up an item he bought on Craigslist. Call me a worrier, but I'm always leary of meeting strangers. And not that I'm strong enough to overtake someone that may want to rob The Man, but at least I could furiously call 911 and scream at the top of my lungs. Anyway, we were in a sketchy part of San Francisco but all went well. OK, we were actually on the cusp of sketchy. We were parked in front of nice apartments. And then right across the street were not-so-nice apartments with six cop cars out front. And no, I'm not exaggerating for effect.
I got this great idea after he was done that we should take the pups across the Golden Gate Bridge. I told him I don't recall ever walking the bridge, I know he hasn't walked the bridge, so wouldn't it be fun? He reluctantly agreed (he didn't have much room to bargain since he did drag me to SF to run an errand) and away we went. We found the place to park but it was packed. Of course it would be - this is a landmark and it was 4:00pm. Tourists galore! We parked in the the overflow lot and made our way to the bridge.
It was on the crowded side but not overwhelming. The pups were having a ball! They were pulling on their leashes and leading the way. Good to know Obedience Training paid off. The Man and I knew we weren't appropriately dressed as we passed people in parkas, scarves and beenies. But we kept truckin'. I wanted to walk the length of the bridge but we realized that we only had one poop bag left and The Man didn't want to risk it. He's a reasonable fellow.
We only walked half of the bridge but had a good time. The pups didn't get tired at all (usually Piko gives up on life halfway into a walk) and I exclaimed how much fun the girls were having. The Man said that he thinks it was more terror - between the cars, people and the wind whipping us, he thought they were hauling ass, not because they were excited but because they were scared for their lives. I prefer to think they were very excited.
What was best about this visit is that The Man admired the views we saw from the Golden Gate Bridge and said to me, "You know what? You're right. San Francisco can be beautiful." Oh happy day! He hates going into the city which made me sad because there are parts that I love. I understand not liking the hustle and bustle but there are just some places that are lovely. I convinced him that we should come back in a month, dressed appropriately, earlier in the day so there would be less people and cars. He agreed. We'll also bring a camera so we can take pictures and post! I know, we'll totally look like tourists but it's OK. It will be worth it!
And Tel! I convinced The Man that he has to go with me to the Hula Show! With you not around, I've been hard pressed to find a companion :(
After they left, The Man pleaded with me to go with him to San Francisco to run an errand. I was pooped and didn't want to go but he bribed me by saying we could bring the pups. I'm glad I went with him because he was picking up an item he bought on Craigslist. Call me a worrier, but I'm always leary of meeting strangers. And not that I'm strong enough to overtake someone that may want to rob The Man, but at least I could furiously call 911 and scream at the top of my lungs. Anyway, we were in a sketchy part of San Francisco but all went well. OK, we were actually on the cusp of sketchy. We were parked in front of nice apartments. And then right across the street were not-so-nice apartments with six cop cars out front. And no, I'm not exaggerating for effect.
I got this great idea after he was done that we should take the pups across the Golden Gate Bridge. I told him I don't recall ever walking the bridge, I know he hasn't walked the bridge, so wouldn't it be fun? He reluctantly agreed (he didn't have much room to bargain since he did drag me to SF to run an errand) and away we went. We found the place to park but it was packed. Of course it would be - this is a landmark and it was 4:00pm. Tourists galore! We parked in the the overflow lot and made our way to the bridge.
It was on the crowded side but not overwhelming. The pups were having a ball! They were pulling on their leashes and leading the way. Good to know Obedience Training paid off. The Man and I knew we weren't appropriately dressed as we passed people in parkas, scarves and beenies. But we kept truckin'. I wanted to walk the length of the bridge but we realized that we only had one poop bag left and The Man didn't want to risk it. He's a reasonable fellow.
We only walked half of the bridge but had a good time. The pups didn't get tired at all (usually Piko gives up on life halfway into a walk) and I exclaimed how much fun the girls were having. The Man said that he thinks it was more terror - between the cars, people and the wind whipping us, he thought they were hauling ass, not because they were excited but because they were scared for their lives. I prefer to think they were very excited.
What was best about this visit is that The Man admired the views we saw from the Golden Gate Bridge and said to me, "You know what? You're right. San Francisco can be beautiful." Oh happy day! He hates going into the city which made me sad because there are parts that I love. I understand not liking the hustle and bustle but there are just some places that are lovely. I convinced him that we should come back in a month, dressed appropriately, earlier in the day so there would be less people and cars. He agreed. We'll also bring a camera so we can take pictures and post! I know, we'll totally look like tourists but it's OK. It will be worth it!
And Tel! I convinced The Man that he has to go with me to the Hula Show! With you not around, I've been hard pressed to find a companion :(
Friday, July 18, 2008
So I spent over three hours reading an entire blog ...
... and his story broke my heart and lifted my spirits at the same time.
I've written time and time again that blogs are an interesting phenomenon. And when people put it ALL OUT THERE for everyone to read, including me, I'm sort of in awe. Because I just don't have that kind of trust ... balls ... or whatever you would call it.
But for this person, I think it's therapeutic, a way to cope when one of the most awful things happens in his life. And I have to admit, I questioned why I was so facinated and captivated by his blog. I was worried that I was one of those people that fed off of someone's misery. Not necessarily enjoyed ... I don't know how to describe it. I guess someone who liked the drama? Anyway, I did NOT want that to be me.
I think why I'm drawn to his blog is because, unlike me, he puts it all out there. His anger, his fears, his sadness ... there doesn't appear to be any censoring and I respect and admire that because everything he is writing is real. And raw. I wrote "his story" but really it's "his life." The incidents in his life that have caused extreme pain and joy at the same time. And yes, I cried! Oh how some of the entries made me cry. Sometimes, it was just the pictures, other times, it's the notes people wrote to him that he posted.
Thanks, Jen, for putting a link to his blog on yours and introducing me to him. I am cheering on Matt and Madeline and wishing them the very best.
I've written time and time again that blogs are an interesting phenomenon. And when people put it ALL OUT THERE for everyone to read, including me, I'm sort of in awe. Because I just don't have that kind of trust ... balls ... or whatever you would call it.
But for this person, I think it's therapeutic, a way to cope when one of the most awful things happens in his life. And I have to admit, I questioned why I was so facinated and captivated by his blog. I was worried that I was one of those people that fed off of someone's misery. Not necessarily enjoyed ... I don't know how to describe it. I guess someone who liked the drama? Anyway, I did NOT want that to be me.
I think why I'm drawn to his blog is because, unlike me, he puts it all out there. His anger, his fears, his sadness ... there doesn't appear to be any censoring and I respect and admire that because everything he is writing is real. And raw. I wrote "his story" but really it's "his life." The incidents in his life that have caused extreme pain and joy at the same time. And yes, I cried! Oh how some of the entries made me cry. Sometimes, it was just the pictures, other times, it's the notes people wrote to him that he posted.
Thanks, Jen, for putting a link to his blog on yours and introducing me to him. I am cheering on Matt and Madeline and wishing them the very best.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
"I was built with a tan, yo."
I said that to the boss of my boss. Well, without the "yo." And yes, there was alcohol involved but it was totally in context with the conversation.
I hate ants. And it appears we have an ant problem. Well, kind of. There isn't a trail but there are quite a few scouts.
It is my duty to kill every one of those bastards.
What I hate is that now I feel like there are ants crawling on my arms and legs.
Vero, we have not cleaned at all. I am sorry. And The Man thought it would be doable for us to go to South San Jose early in the morning on Saturday to see his old roommate and his baby as well as pick up his mail. All before 10am. I love my husband but dang, that's a jam packed morning. So we are going to try and clean for the next two nights. I just don't see our home becoming spic and span. So here is my apology in advance. We'll try and liquor you and your husband up so you won't notice! I can at least promise you clean sheets.
I am in a funny mood. Not a bad mood, just funny. And yes, the week of Power is fast approaching. Maybe THAT'S it. But I'm overall a happy gal.
Things I'm thankful for ...
1. Raid
2. Cloudy skies
3. Nectarines in season
4. Good sashimi
5. A nice walk along the bay with a good friend
Friday, July 11, 2008
WWLDD ... What would Liz@D@wn do?
So check this out - as you know (if you read my Twitter) I've started the process of changing my name. What an adventure that was. And I'm going to share it with you.
Monday, July 7th: I decided to try and go to the Social Security Office and the DMV.
Mistake #1: Not doing any kind of research before going to these fine establishments. OK, that's the only mistake I'm listing. But it's a good one!
I thought that I could "pop in" to take care of my business. I knew there was going to be a wait but I figured it wouldn't be so bad. "Ah-hah!" you smirk. And you would be correct. Both places were crazy busy and I refused to wait at either one. The SS Office had a helpful guard who said the best times to come were either first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Wednesday, July 9th: So I went back at 8:45am, waited a little over 20 minutes and had myself a new last name. At least with the SS Office.
Then I went to the Kaiser Pharmacy to pick up a prescription. I was in the area and it was as good of a time of any to pick up my stuff. I swear the same people that were at the SS Office were in line at the pharmacy. Hey. I know that I wasn't turning any heads with my T-shirt and faded sweat shorts but I looked somewhat presentable. I suppose, though, that these people should be cut some slack because they were sick. Anyway, the line is long but it was moving rather fast with the three different windows open. I was next in line when I saw, out of the corner of my eye, this little old lady limping as she is pushing her walker. And she is bypassing the line and going straight to an un-manned window.
I ask you ... WWLDD?
I eyeballed this lady, wondering what would unfold. At this time, a window had become free and the pharmacist tech said, "Next!" I walked to the window which happened to be right next the little old lady. She didn't try to cut in front of me and I was relieved that there wouldn't be a showdown. But if she had tried ... would I say something? I really wondered. As the PT was pulling up my file in the computer, I had continued to eyeball the old lady. I saw that she glanced behind her and saw the long line. But she doesn't move.
My PT was about to get my prescription when the little old lady piped up from the other obviously un-manned window, "Excuse me! Is anyone at this window?"
My PT replied, "Oh! I thought someone was helping you! I will help you right after her."
I was torn. Here was this little old lady who was obviously quite frail and was somehow damaged. While she didn't give off a bitchy vibe, she had this air of entitlement when my PT talked to her. Kind of like, "Oh yes. See to that, young man." I know she saw that there was a line. But she didn't seem at all grateful that the PT was going to help her next. She seemed a little bit impatient, if anything. But again, she wasn't mean. And it was obvious that she was not in the best health or in the prime of her life. But STILL.
I had thought about passing the PT a note to let him know that the little old lady wasn't next. I didn't want the little old lady hear me say, "Psst. She didn't wait in line, man! All those people are ahead of her." But then I figured that even if I did let the PT know, he would still help her next because she was already there and it was easier to help her out than make her go to the very end of the line. It was probably much quicker to help her out then set her straight and possibly cause a scene. But how would I feel if I had been one of those people, especially when she had looked back, saw the line and probably made eye contact with a few of them. I wouldn't have been a happy camper if I was one of those people. Unless she was bleeding, shaking or obviously hurt in some way, I would have wanted her to fall in line with the rest of us commoners.
All of this was racing through my mind as the PT got my prescription. When he came back, I decided not to tell him because I figured he would help out the little old lady no matter what. Yes folks, I kept my mouth shut. I took my prescription, thanked him and moved out of the way so the little old cutter could be helped next.
I think I did the right thing. I think. I'm really not quite sure. Part of me wonders if that little old lady/cutter would have caused a scene if I pointed out to the PT that she cut in line or if I had told her that there was actually a line. As if she didn't know. I'm OK, though, with never finding out. Because me up against an 80+ old woman wouldn't have been good. I'm sure the whole pharmacy would have turned on me.
Monday, July 7th: I decided to try and go to the Social Security Office and the DMV.
Mistake #1: Not doing any kind of research before going to these fine establishments. OK, that's the only mistake I'm listing. But it's a good one!
I thought that I could "pop in" to take care of my business. I knew there was going to be a wait but I figured it wouldn't be so bad. "Ah-hah!" you smirk. And you would be correct. Both places were crazy busy and I refused to wait at either one. The SS Office had a helpful guard who said the best times to come were either first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Wednesday, July 9th: So I went back at 8:45am, waited a little over 20 minutes and had myself a new last name. At least with the SS Office.
Then I went to the Kaiser Pharmacy to pick up a prescription. I was in the area and it was as good of a time of any to pick up my stuff. I swear the same people that were at the SS Office were in line at the pharmacy. Hey. I know that I wasn't turning any heads with my T-shirt and faded sweat shorts but I looked somewhat presentable. I suppose, though, that these people should be cut some slack because they were sick. Anyway, the line is long but it was moving rather fast with the three different windows open. I was next in line when I saw, out of the corner of my eye, this little old lady limping as she is pushing her walker. And she is bypassing the line and going straight to an un-manned window.
I ask you ... WWLDD?
I eyeballed this lady, wondering what would unfold. At this time, a window had become free and the pharmacist tech said, "Next!" I walked to the window which happened to be right next the little old lady. She didn't try to cut in front of me and I was relieved that there wouldn't be a showdown. But if she had tried ... would I say something? I really wondered. As the PT was pulling up my file in the computer, I had continued to eyeball the old lady. I saw that she glanced behind her and saw the long line. But she doesn't move.
My PT was about to get my prescription when the little old lady piped up from the other obviously un-manned window, "Excuse me! Is anyone at this window?"
My PT replied, "Oh! I thought someone was helping you! I will help you right after her."
I was torn. Here was this little old lady who was obviously quite frail and was somehow damaged. While she didn't give off a bitchy vibe, she had this air of entitlement when my PT talked to her. Kind of like, "Oh yes. See to that, young man." I know she saw that there was a line. But she didn't seem at all grateful that the PT was going to help her next. She seemed a little bit impatient, if anything. But again, she wasn't mean. And it was obvious that she was not in the best health or in the prime of her life. But STILL.
I had thought about passing the PT a note to let him know that the little old lady wasn't next. I didn't want the little old lady hear me say, "Psst. She didn't wait in line, man! All those people are ahead of her." But then I figured that even if I did let the PT know, he would still help her next because she was already there and it was easier to help her out than make her go to the very end of the line. It was probably much quicker to help her out then set her straight and possibly cause a scene. But how would I feel if I had been one of those people, especially when she had looked back, saw the line and probably made eye contact with a few of them. I wouldn't have been a happy camper if I was one of those people. Unless she was bleeding, shaking or obviously hurt in some way, I would have wanted her to fall in line with the rest of us commoners.
All of this was racing through my mind as the PT got my prescription. When he came back, I decided not to tell him because I figured he would help out the little old lady no matter what. Yes folks, I kept my mouth shut. I took my prescription, thanked him and moved out of the way so the little old cutter could be helped next.
I think I did the right thing. I think. I'm really not quite sure. Part of me wonders if that little old lady/cutter would have caused a scene if I pointed out to the PT that she cut in line or if I had told her that there was actually a line. As if she didn't know. I'm OK, though, with never finding out. Because me up against an 80+ old woman wouldn't have been good. I'm sure the whole pharmacy would have turned on me.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Oh lazy days ...
Happy to report that I now have a doctor with small hands.
It's been really hard for me to get back to the great eating and exercising habits that I had prior to the wedding. And then my minor medical problem really uninspired me to do anything other than sleep and eat.
But I'm healthy again and have no excuses. Time to get serious again!
We had a very chill 4th of July. We ate at my parents' house and then went home with the puppies. I miss seeing fireworks but I'm not a big fan of fighting crowds and leaving the pups at home. Hope you had a good one!
Thankful list:
1. Having a petite doctor
2. A husband who sometimes surprises me with breakfast ( like today!)
3. a very clean laundry mat to wash comforters (in preparation for Pooks and her Hubs!)
4. 7 On Your Side - will explain once everything is resolved
5. muscular legs - haven't been hitting the gym so thank goodness there are some muscles somewhere!!
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Happy for weekends ...
I love I'm Yours by Jason Mraz. So yes, because it brings me absolute joy every time I hear it on my blog, you are subjected to it too! It's so happy, bubbly and simple ... like me! Ha, sometimes :) Don't worry, I'm sure I'll take it down in a month or two ;)
Saw Iron Man w/ The Man this morning. Wow, who knew Robert Downey Jr could be a super hero?! Good look for him! And he pulled it off. I want to see the movie with him, Jack Black and Ben Stiller. Oh man, I love movies that make me laugh and laugh and I think that one will deliver. I hope! Anyway, we really liked Iron Man. Poor Jon, he was so disappointed when we saw Get Smart but now he's happy again because we saw a good movie. We still need to see The Hulk, Batman, Kung Fu Panda ... The Man wants to see Wanted but I won't see it because I am sticking to my boycott against A. Jolie. Hey, everyone's entitled to my opinion. Same reason I won't buy anything by R. Kelly.
Going to fondue with some girlfriends tonight. I love cheese so I'm in trouble! Hopefully I can control myself. It's been so hard now that I don't have to fit into that dress ;)
Going on month three and still asked, "How does it feel to be married?" My answer? Feels good! He's pretty fantastic ... shhh, can't have him having a big head. Oh go ahead, tell him I said he's all that.
Thankful list:
1. My morning coffee, Ganoderma. That stuff wakes me up and keeps me regular.
2. Braces - man, my teeth would be all kinds of jacked if my parents didn't pay for them.
3. My hair salon - next month will be nine years with my hair stylist! I just visited the salon - I chickened out, as I predicted. Just got a trim, highlights and lowlights. Anyway, I adore my salon.
4. The breeze we get from the Bay
5. Waking up next to The Man and our puppies wedged in wherever they find room on the bed
Have a great weekend!
Saw Iron Man w/ The Man this morning. Wow, who knew Robert Downey Jr could be a super hero?! Good look for him! And he pulled it off. I want to see the movie with him, Jack Black and Ben Stiller. Oh man, I love movies that make me laugh and laugh and I think that one will deliver. I hope! Anyway, we really liked Iron Man. Poor Jon, he was so disappointed when we saw Get Smart but now he's happy again because we saw a good movie. We still need to see The Hulk, Batman, Kung Fu Panda ... The Man wants to see Wanted but I won't see it because I am sticking to my boycott against A. Jolie. Hey, everyone's entitled to my opinion. Same reason I won't buy anything by R. Kelly.
Going to fondue with some girlfriends tonight. I love cheese so I'm in trouble! Hopefully I can control myself. It's been so hard now that I don't have to fit into that dress ;)
Going on month three and still asked, "How does it feel to be married?" My answer? Feels good! He's pretty fantastic ... shhh, can't have him having a big head. Oh go ahead, tell him I said he's all that.
Thankful list:
1. My morning coffee, Ganoderma. That stuff wakes me up and keeps me regular.
2. Braces - man, my teeth would be all kinds of jacked if my parents didn't pay for them.
3. My hair salon - next month will be nine years with my hair stylist! I just visited the salon - I chickened out, as I predicted. Just got a trim, highlights and lowlights. Anyway, I adore my salon.
4. The breeze we get from the Bay
5. Waking up next to The Man and our puppies wedged in wherever they find room on the bed
Have a great weekend!
Friday, June 27, 2008
Natural disasters and such
Yes, I'm crushin' on Fridays again :) I love this day of the week! Like a little reward for surviving yet another work week.
The air quality in our area isn't so great right now. Luckily, I have no respiratory issues. I feel really bad for those that do, though, because it smells like campfire outside and it's really hazy. I can't imagine what it's like to lose your home to a fire. Or any other disaster, for that matter.
I was really worried about my relatives in the Philippines earlier this week. There was a major typhoon that flooded certain areas. Because I'm geographically "special", I wasn't sure if it affected my relatives so I sent out an email asking if everyone was OK. Thankfully, everyone in the family was fine, just experiencing very wet weather and some were without electricity. They told me how some of their colleagues and friends lost everything. Can you imagine? You lose all your appliances, your clothes, your special momentos ... your home. Some of them could barely see their rooftops. I know that people are experiencing that right here in the US, too.
Personalizing everything (which is sometimes good, sometimes bad) I wonder what the heck we're going to do when the next big earthquake hits. We all know it's bound to happen, we just don't know when. We all know, especially in the Bay Area, that is the risk we take for living in such a great area. I mean, many are knowingly living right on top of a fault line! I know I live fairly close to one - most people in the Bay Area do.
I remember exactly where I was when the big 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake hit. I was doing my homework in the family room and my mom was watching TV. Then things hanging from the ceiling started swaying and items around the house started shaking. It lasted for what felt like minutes. Later we found out that while driving on his way to work, my dad missed the collapse of the Cypress (part of the Nimitz Freeway) by two minutes.
OK, enough of being a downer it just makes a person think, you know?
I'm thankful for ...
1. $15/month gym membership: "What?!" you screech. Here's the thing. The Man pays a hefty gym membership so that he can go to any 24Hour Fitness in the Bay Area. He didn't want to just commit to one location because he works far from where we live and wanted to keep his options open. I asked if I could be put onto his membership and we added me to his account for $30/month. Typical me - I didn't end up going to the gym. I felt bad for wasting money so I called to cancel my membership. "Ma'am, would you be willing to stay if we lowered you to $19.99/month?" "Hellz ya!" I replied. OK, not really but I that's what I was thinking. After a couple of months, The Man asked me if I threatened to quit again. I told him no, I had only called that one time. He showed me the bill and I was being charged $15/month. I don't know what the heck happened but that was fine by me! So I pay a $15/month membership ... but a GRIP on personal training. I'll just concentrate on being thankful for the cheap membership.
2. Rum & Diet Coke: 75 or so calories of pure bliss. I had two yesterday with some coworkers (and my boss!) to celebrate the end of the fiscal year. Rum & Diet Cokes know how to take the edge off, let me tell you! And unless I have a whack bartender, they are hardly ever not "effective." By that I mean "provide a nice buzz." I've learned to be careful at the Mexican restaurants, though. The peeps there make them s-t-r-o-n-g. No complaints because I love to get my money's worth. I've just learned I better have some chips and salsa or I'm floored. Or seeing stars.
3. Bill Payer: Bless my little credit union, I love this feature! I am terrible at having stamps on hand and even worse about remembering when bills are due. My bank charges me 25cents for each bill I pay online - cheaper than a stamp! I love how I can decide when I want my bill to be my paid, too. This way I never forget and incur late charges. Suh-weeet.
4. Proximity to my parents: My parents live about five minutes from my home. Yes, they can drive me crazy at the drop of a dime but I also love them to pieces. They have always been so supportive of me. And yes, that's what parents do but they have always supported my decisions, even when they didn't agree. When I was miserable at one of my previous jobs, my dad told me that I should quit. I told him I couldn't quit, I needed to find another job first before quitting. He told me that I was always welcomed in the house and that I would never starve or be homeless. After our conversation, I thought about how he and my mom worked at jobs, staying until retirement, because they had to support their family. And how they probably dealt with way more bull$hit then I have because they weathered through decades of change, bad bosses, bad coworkers and whatever other drama normally occurs at work. It could have so easy for my dad to say, "Buck up! Do you know what I've dealt with through the years!? Do you know how many times your mom and I wanted to quit but couldn't because we had to support you guys?" But he didn't. He just wanted to see me happy. My parents, crazy makers they may be, are wonderful folks and I'm so happy they are close by.
5. Crystal Light: I know, kind of quirky. I do not enjoy the (non) taste of water. When I made the decision to eat better and work out, drinking 64 oz a day was the easiest thing I could change in my life to treat my body better. But how could I stomach that much water and resist drinking the diet sodas that I loved so much? Easy - Crystal Light. And they have those To Go packs now that are just awesome. My favorite flavor? Peach Mango Green Tea. Tastes like Snapple Peach Tea. Yumm.
The air quality in our area isn't so great right now. Luckily, I have no respiratory issues. I feel really bad for those that do, though, because it smells like campfire outside and it's really hazy. I can't imagine what it's like to lose your home to a fire. Or any other disaster, for that matter.
I was really worried about my relatives in the Philippines earlier this week. There was a major typhoon that flooded certain areas. Because I'm geographically "special", I wasn't sure if it affected my relatives so I sent out an email asking if everyone was OK. Thankfully, everyone in the family was fine, just experiencing very wet weather and some were without electricity. They told me how some of their colleagues and friends lost everything. Can you imagine? You lose all your appliances, your clothes, your special momentos ... your home. Some of them could barely see their rooftops. I know that people are experiencing that right here in the US, too.
Personalizing everything (which is sometimes good, sometimes bad) I wonder what the heck we're going to do when the next big earthquake hits. We all know it's bound to happen, we just don't know when. We all know, especially in the Bay Area, that is the risk we take for living in such a great area. I mean, many are knowingly living right on top of a fault line! I know I live fairly close to one - most people in the Bay Area do.
I remember exactly where I was when the big 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake hit. I was doing my homework in the family room and my mom was watching TV. Then things hanging from the ceiling started swaying and items around the house started shaking. It lasted for what felt like minutes. Later we found out that while driving on his way to work, my dad missed the collapse of the Cypress (part of the Nimitz Freeway) by two minutes.
OK, enough of being a downer it just makes a person think, you know?
I'm thankful for ...
1. $15/month gym membership: "What?!" you screech. Here's the thing. The Man pays a hefty gym membership so that he can go to any 24Hour Fitness in the Bay Area. He didn't want to just commit to one location because he works far from where we live and wanted to keep his options open. I asked if I could be put onto his membership and we added me to his account for $30/month. Typical me - I didn't end up going to the gym. I felt bad for wasting money so I called to cancel my membership. "Ma'am, would you be willing to stay if we lowered you to $19.99/month?" "Hellz ya!" I replied. OK, not really but I that's what I was thinking. After a couple of months, The Man asked me if I threatened to quit again. I told him no, I had only called that one time. He showed me the bill and I was being charged $15/month. I don't know what the heck happened but that was fine by me! So I pay a $15/month membership ... but a GRIP on personal training. I'll just concentrate on being thankful for the cheap membership.
2. Rum & Diet Coke: 75 or so calories of pure bliss. I had two yesterday with some coworkers (and my boss!) to celebrate the end of the fiscal year. Rum & Diet Cokes know how to take the edge off, let me tell you! And unless I have a whack bartender, they are hardly ever not "effective." By that I mean "provide a nice buzz." I've learned to be careful at the Mexican restaurants, though. The peeps there make them s-t-r-o-n-g. No complaints because I love to get my money's worth. I've just learned I better have some chips and salsa or I'm floored. Or seeing stars.
3. Bill Payer: Bless my little credit union, I love this feature! I am terrible at having stamps on hand and even worse about remembering when bills are due. My bank charges me 25cents for each bill I pay online - cheaper than a stamp! I love how I can decide when I want my bill to be my paid, too. This way I never forget and incur late charges. Suh-weeet.
4. Proximity to my parents: My parents live about five minutes from my home. Yes, they can drive me crazy at the drop of a dime but I also love them to pieces. They have always been so supportive of me. And yes, that's what parents do but they have always supported my decisions, even when they didn't agree. When I was miserable at one of my previous jobs, my dad told me that I should quit. I told him I couldn't quit, I needed to find another job first before quitting. He told me that I was always welcomed in the house and that I would never starve or be homeless. After our conversation, I thought about how he and my mom worked at jobs, staying until retirement, because they had to support their family. And how they probably dealt with way more bull$hit then I have because they weathered through decades of change, bad bosses, bad coworkers and whatever other drama normally occurs at work. It could have so easy for my dad to say, "Buck up! Do you know what I've dealt with through the years!? Do you know how many times your mom and I wanted to quit but couldn't because we had to support you guys?" But he didn't. He just wanted to see me happy. My parents, crazy makers they may be, are wonderful folks and I'm so happy they are close by.
5. Crystal Light: I know, kind of quirky. I do not enjoy the (non) taste of water. When I made the decision to eat better and work out, drinking 64 oz a day was the easiest thing I could change in my life to treat my body better. But how could I stomach that much water and resist drinking the diet sodas that I loved so much? Easy - Crystal Light. And they have those To Go packs now that are just awesome. My favorite flavor? Peach Mango Green Tea. Tastes like Snapple Peach Tea. Yumm.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Things
I know, material things are just things. But I'm also grateful for certain things because they make our lives easier. And they make chores a little more bearable. I won't go as far as writing "fun" but material things help me out a lot. For instance ...
1. I'm thankful for the kick ass Dyson that we got as a wedding gift from The Man's best friend and Vero! The Man vacuums so much now! I'm not exaggerating. He likes to point out all the hair we can both see through the canister. Whatever. It gets him to vacuum a lot (I'm not joking, The Man vacuums at least once a week. Usually more!!!) He likes gadgets and this one is a fine one for him to play with and enjoy. As the former sole vacuuming person in the house, this was a welcome addition.
There's just seems to be this fascination in us being able to see the gross stuff we are vacuuming from our floor over the mysterious vacuum bag that came from our Hoover.
2. I'm thankful for Gertrude who came to us a few months ago and is great addition to the family! I started to write about her back in April when we first got her but I deleted the entry because I felt like I was showin' off. Well, whatever. She's a few months old now and I really am grateful for her! Some of you may remember Cupcake, my old but kind-of-sturdy black Pontiac Sunfire. I swore I would drive her into the ground because she was paid off! And by golly, I stuck to my word and done nearly drove her into the ground! The passenger window had become fickle, sometimes not rolling up. NOT good since I drive a lot for work. And then Cupcake simply cut out on me while I was driving on Mission Blvd. Well, we debated if we should make the repairs and when The Man looked up her safety ratings, he came up with a really good case for buying a new car. With all the driving I do, he rationalized that I will have a pretty great chance of one day being in an accident. Morbid, I know, but he's right. Since he loves researching online for gadgets (and yes, I consider cars a really expensive gadget) he researched every night for about eight to ten weeks on different cars. Yes, while I was planning for the wedding ;) I was really big on fuel efficiency (I had no idea that gas was going to be $5/gallon or I would have argued more about it!) and The Man was really big on crash safety ratings. I really wanted a certain car and would not budge. Then he showed me a video on a crash test for my #1 pick. The video went on to say that the driver would likely incur "brain hemorrhaging" should he/she be hit from the side at 45 mph.
The Man knows how to argue his case, let me tell you. But I still need something fuel efficient, I argued back! He was exasperated by then and said, "Well I really don't think you will care much about fuel efficiency when you're missing a limb or something!!!" Point taken. So there went my #2 pick, as well.
Not to worry, he also had to compromise. I test drove his #1 pick and did not care for it. We ended up with his #2 choice which was my #3 -
Her name is Gertrude. Gertie, for short. Dirty Gertie when she's not clean or is acting up. The reason why I named her Gertrude is because her voice is kind of stern and formal. The Man did not care for this name. He wanted me to name her something more exotic. I had named our GPS "Sabine" because she had an Australian/British accent and the named sounded appropriate. Oh well, I'm driving it so I'm naming it! Gertrude has proven to be an awesome car. The Man is less anxious about all my daily driving and I feel pretty safe, too. She has butt warmers (for the life of him, The Man does not understand why chicks dig butt warmers! I told him butt warmers rule!) and a great A/C which Cupcake, sadly, had a hard time with - not sure if it's because it was a black car or just getting old but Cupcake was H-O-T! Didn't matter if it was winter or summer, if it was sunny, she was an oven. As I mentioned, Gertie is a stern sounding car but she also gives clear and accurate directions and is extremely useful for my job. It costs quite a bit to fill 'er up but I actually fill her up less frequently than I did the Sunfire. Phewww!
3. We finally, FINALLY, started using the slow cooker Kim & Ryan bought us for our wedding! Our home gets super hot during the summer, especially whenever we use the oven or stove so this appliance really comes in handy right about now. It doesn't make our house one big oven ... thank goodness!
What's moded is that I haven't bothered to look up recipes to get the maximum benefit of this great slow cooker. What are we using it for, you ask? To cook the pups' chicken! I know, I know, you think it's ridiculous. Well, they won't eat just kibble ... they have gone two days straight without eating. We mix up some chicken with it and problem solved! They eat. So if anyone has a great recipe we can use so that we can make a nice meal, please let me know! I've had people tell me, "Oh! Just throw some chicken, onion, garlic, carrots and potatoes and you've got yourself a meal!" I am not that secure in my cooking, people. I like exact measurements.
The reason why we finally unearthed this great gift, along with the rest of our fantastic wedding gifts, is because The Man has finally unpacked all his stuff. It's hard to explain since it's not like we moved into a new place. But if you could have seen what it looked like when he finally moved in all his stuff - it was something else. We still have one room that needs some serious help :( Anyway, we are finally finding a place for everything and putting everything in its place!
4. My Sonicare toothbrush - I've had this for a while. It's a great contraption, I tell you. After I got three cavities, I take my dental hygiene very seriously. Those cavities were my first ever, by the way. I conveniently got them right after I was taken off my parents' insurance and I was working at a job that did not provide medical or dental!
Those have been my only cavities and I think a lot has to do with my Sonicare toothbrush. I'm not keen on the idea of wearing dentures ... I'm not a hater, I'm just trying to keep my real teeth for as long as possible.
5. OK, I know this one sounds ridiculous but I forgot how much I loved this product until we stopped using it and then recently bought it again:
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I used to work for Bath and Body Works back in college. I loved all their stuff and wore it all the time. As I got older, I stopped using many of their products. But there are two that I love - their hand soap and their antibacterial gel. We ran out of the hand soap a couple months ago and never replaced it because we both hate going to the mall. Instead, The Man bought some soap from the grocery store and we used that. No biggie, it totally worked. Last Saturday, we happened to need to go to the mall and walked by Bath and Body Works. Whooohooo, they were having a sale - 3 antibacterial products for $10. I bought some hand soap, of course!
Oh my word, the Midnight Pomegranate is di-vine!!!! It smells so good, it makes our hands smell good and because BBW stuff is strong, it makes the bathroom smell good! All that scent-y goodness in a squirt of hand soap. Awesome.
So these are a few of my favorite things. Please remember that if you have a good slow cooker recipe, send it my way! The Man and I will be very grateful.
Oh, and me joining the bandwagon a little bit late ... here is MY weemee!
Taken from one of Daisy's Mama's entries!
No, no, I'm not dillusional. I know I'm no angel! But I try to be good. Most of the time. And out of all the expressions to choose from, this one seemed the most calm. Happy without going overboard. What I really dig is that she's tan so it's pretty accurate representation! Now if only they made slated eyes an option ...
1. I'm thankful for the kick ass Dyson that we got as a wedding gift from The Man's best friend and Vero! The Man vacuums so much now! I'm not exaggerating. He likes to point out all the hair we can both see through the canister. Whatever. It gets him to vacuum a lot (I'm not joking, The Man vacuums at least once a week. Usually more!!!) He likes gadgets and this one is a fine one for him to play with and enjoy. As the former sole vacuuming person in the house, this was a welcome addition.
There's just seems to be this fascination in us being able to see the gross stuff we are vacuuming from our floor over the mysterious vacuum bag that came from our Hoover.
2. I'm thankful for Gertrude who came to us a few months ago and is great addition to the family! I started to write about her back in April when we first got her but I deleted the entry because I felt like I was showin' off. Well, whatever. She's a few months old now and I really am grateful for her! Some of you may remember Cupcake, my old but kind-of-sturdy black Pontiac Sunfire. I swore I would drive her into the ground because she was paid off! And by golly, I stuck to my word and done nearly drove her into the ground! The passenger window had become fickle, sometimes not rolling up. NOT good since I drive a lot for work. And then Cupcake simply cut out on me while I was driving on Mission Blvd. Well, we debated if we should make the repairs and when The Man looked up her safety ratings, he came up with a really good case for buying a new car. With all the driving I do, he rationalized that I will have a pretty great chance of one day being in an accident. Morbid, I know, but he's right. Since he loves researching online for gadgets (and yes, I consider cars a really expensive gadget) he researched every night for about eight to ten weeks on different cars. Yes, while I was planning for the wedding ;) I was really big on fuel efficiency (I had no idea that gas was going to be $5/gallon or I would have argued more about it!) and The Man was really big on crash safety ratings. I really wanted a certain car and would not budge. Then he showed me a video on a crash test for my #1 pick. The video went on to say that the driver would likely incur "brain hemorrhaging" should he/she be hit from the side at 45 mph.
The Man knows how to argue his case, let me tell you. But I still need something fuel efficient, I argued back! He was exasperated by then and said, "Well I really don't think you will care much about fuel efficiency when you're missing a limb or something!!!" Point taken. So there went my #2 pick, as well.
Not to worry, he also had to compromise. I test drove his #1 pick and did not care for it. We ended up with his #2 choice which was my #3 -
Her name is Gertrude. Gertie, for short. Dirty Gertie when she's not clean or is acting up. The reason why I named her Gertrude is because her voice is kind of stern and formal. The Man did not care for this name. He wanted me to name her something more exotic. I had named our GPS "Sabine" because she had an Australian/British accent and the named sounded appropriate. Oh well, I'm driving it so I'm naming it! Gertrude has proven to be an awesome car. The Man is less anxious about all my daily driving and I feel pretty safe, too. She has butt warmers (for the life of him, The Man does not understand why chicks dig butt warmers! I told him butt warmers rule!) and a great A/C which Cupcake, sadly, had a hard time with - not sure if it's because it was a black car or just getting old but Cupcake was H-O-T! Didn't matter if it was winter or summer, if it was sunny, she was an oven. As I mentioned, Gertie is a stern sounding car but she also gives clear and accurate directions and is extremely useful for my job. It costs quite a bit to fill 'er up but I actually fill her up less frequently than I did the Sunfire. Phewww!
3. We finally, FINALLY, started using the slow cooker Kim & Ryan bought us for our wedding! Our home gets super hot during the summer, especially whenever we use the oven or stove so this appliance really comes in handy right about now. It doesn't make our house one big oven ... thank goodness!
What's moded is that I haven't bothered to look up recipes to get the maximum benefit of this great slow cooker. What are we using it for, you ask? To cook the pups' chicken! I know, I know, you think it's ridiculous. Well, they won't eat just kibble ... they have gone two days straight without eating. We mix up some chicken with it and problem solved! They eat. So if anyone has a great recipe we can use so that we can make a nice meal, please let me know! I've had people tell me, "Oh! Just throw some chicken, onion, garlic, carrots and potatoes and you've got yourself a meal!" I am not that secure in my cooking, people. I like exact measurements.
The reason why we finally unearthed this great gift, along with the rest of our fantastic wedding gifts, is because The Man has finally unpacked all his stuff. It's hard to explain since it's not like we moved into a new place. But if you could have seen what it looked like when he finally moved in all his stuff - it was something else. We still have one room that needs some serious help :( Anyway, we are finally finding a place for everything and putting everything in its place!
4. My Sonicare toothbrush - I've had this for a while. It's a great contraption, I tell you. After I got three cavities, I take my dental hygiene very seriously. Those cavities were my first ever, by the way. I conveniently got them right after I was taken off my parents' insurance and I was working at a job that did not provide medical or dental!
Those have been my only cavities and I think a lot has to do with my Sonicare toothbrush. I'm not keen on the idea of wearing dentures ... I'm not a hater, I'm just trying to keep my real teeth for as long as possible.
5. OK, I know this one sounds ridiculous but I forgot how much I loved this product until we stopped using it and then recently bought it again:
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I used to work for Bath and Body Works back in college. I loved all their stuff and wore it all the time. As I got older, I stopped using many of their products. But there are two that I love - their hand soap and their antibacterial gel. We ran out of the hand soap a couple months ago and never replaced it because we both hate going to the mall. Instead, The Man bought some soap from the grocery store and we used that. No biggie, it totally worked. Last Saturday, we happened to need to go to the mall and walked by Bath and Body Works. Whooohooo, they were having a sale - 3 antibacterial products for $10. I bought some hand soap, of course!
Oh my word, the Midnight Pomegranate is di-vine!!!! It smells so good, it makes our hands smell good and because BBW stuff is strong, it makes the bathroom smell good! All that scent-y goodness in a squirt of hand soap. Awesome.
So these are a few of my favorite things. Please remember that if you have a good slow cooker recipe, send it my way! The Man and I will be very grateful.
Oh, and me joining the bandwagon a little bit late ... here is MY weemee!
Taken from one of Daisy's Mama's entries!
No, no, I'm not dillusional. I know I'm no angel! But I try to be good. Most of the time. And out of all the expressions to choose from, this one seemed the most calm. Happy without going overboard. What I really dig is that she's tan so it's pretty accurate representation! Now if only they made slated eyes an option ...
Friday, June 20, 2008
OhmyGAWD, thank goodness it's Friday
Going all Oprah on y'all -
1. I love Fridays. I am thankful for Fridays. For as long as I can remember, it has been my most favorite day. Better than Saturday and far better than Sunday (Sundays kind of depress me because it's a hop-skip-and-a-jump from Monday.) Work always seems a little easier on Fridays.
2. My puppies. I adore the pups. They have helped me see that there are maternal instincts buried deep inside :) Check it out, even though Piko puked in our bed and it seeped through the sheet and it was at 5am, I can still look at her adoringly. They are fantastic creatures, I tell you - little people in fur coats! The Man has stressful days at work, at times, and before he would play video games or watch a kung fu movie to decompress. Now the puppies almost always do the trick. Pili lunges her body at his face to lick, lick, lick. Piko gives quick kisses and then rolls over for a belly rub. Their typical ways of saying hello!
3. Being regular. Thanks to my special coffee every morning, I am a regular gal. Yahhhh, I WROTE IT. Man, if you've ever been irregular, you know that is a freakin' blessing to be regular. I don't need to write more about that, do I?
4. Having dinner with a childhood friend last night. I'm not great at sustaining friendships. I could write a whole entry on it. But I'll just leave it with it takes a lot of work. Anyway, I have this one friend that I've known since I was 11 years old. We have been friends for 18 years!!! The last four years have been tough, though. Nothing major happened, we just lost touch, grew to have different lives and grew apart. Well, we finally got it together and had drinks last night! It was really nice.
5. Cool 60 degrees mornings. It has been in the 90s for the past few days so it's nice to wake up to comfortable weather ... before it gets uncomfortable! We have a lot of body heat in our bed between The Man, me, and our two very furry dogs so I love comfortably cool mornings.
Now the typical ramblings -
What the hell is going on with gas prices?!?! Unbelievable!!! And possible off shore drilling? OK, seriously, how did this man get reelected? I can't wait for a democrat to get into office!! Sweet mary, who would have ever thought gas would reach $5/gallon?
I am making a conscious effort to stop "gossiping" at work. It's with only one person in particular and she somehow manages to get me to say what I really think with very little or no censoring. But I'm putting it on me, not her, because in the end I control what I say. I can tell when our conversations going towards a negative direction but it feels so good to talk to someone who voices my same concerns that I just go right along with her. She's not at all a bad person, she's actually very nice. But it's just never good to gossip, you know? I justify it by convincing myself that they are MY feelings so why wouldn't I share? It's not like I'm revealing someone else's feelings. But in the end, I am talking about other people and I don't feel good about myself. So no more gossiping!! Especially since, overall, I really like my job.
Oh! For the single friends that will eventually have a wedding ... I saw the cutest wedding invitation the other day. If I could do it again, I would have totally taken the idea. It was very simple and just The Man and my style. It was the normal size of an invitation but heavier paper and semi-gloss. On one side was a picture of the couple. It filled up the whole page so from far away it looked like a professional photograph - probably one of their engagement pictures. They looked so relaxed and beautiful and the background was a park. On the other side was all the information for the wedding. Including a website where guests had to RSVP. It was a green background which matched the green from the trees in their picture with white lettering. It was so simple yet different and totally beautiful! Anyway, it's a wedding my parents are attending but because I liked the invitation so much, I told my folks I was going to hijack the invitation afterwards for anyone's future reference. I like it so much because it was a great picture of the couple and there was no fuss or muss with multiple envelopes or papers - I wish I had thought of that! Plus it didn't look that expensive to make - bonus!!!!! Now that my wedding planning days are over, I truly enjoy seeing other people's interpretations and ideas of their big day especially if it's completely different than mine. I know that destination weddings are all the rage (hello, we jumped on that bandwagon!) so I enjoy hearing how people make it work in the Bay Area. Weird, right?
1. I love Fridays. I am thankful for Fridays. For as long as I can remember, it has been my most favorite day. Better than Saturday and far better than Sunday (Sundays kind of depress me because it's a hop-skip-and-a-jump from Monday.) Work always seems a little easier on Fridays.
2. My puppies. I adore the pups. They have helped me see that there are maternal instincts buried deep inside :) Check it out, even though Piko puked in our bed and it seeped through the sheet and it was at 5am, I can still look at her adoringly. They are fantastic creatures, I tell you - little people in fur coats! The Man has stressful days at work, at times, and before he would play video games or watch a kung fu movie to decompress. Now the puppies almost always do the trick. Pili lunges her body at his face to lick, lick, lick. Piko gives quick kisses and then rolls over for a belly rub. Their typical ways of saying hello!
3. Being regular. Thanks to my special coffee every morning, I am a regular gal. Yahhhh, I WROTE IT. Man, if you've ever been irregular, you know that is a freakin' blessing to be regular. I don't need to write more about that, do I?
4. Having dinner with a childhood friend last night. I'm not great at sustaining friendships. I could write a whole entry on it. But I'll just leave it with it takes a lot of work. Anyway, I have this one friend that I've known since I was 11 years old. We have been friends for 18 years!!! The last four years have been tough, though. Nothing major happened, we just lost touch, grew to have different lives and grew apart. Well, we finally got it together and had drinks last night! It was really nice.
5. Cool 60 degrees mornings. It has been in the 90s for the past few days so it's nice to wake up to comfortable weather ... before it gets uncomfortable! We have a lot of body heat in our bed between The Man, me, and our two very furry dogs so I love comfortably cool mornings.
Now the typical ramblings -
What the hell is going on with gas prices?!?! Unbelievable!!! And possible off shore drilling? OK, seriously, how did this man get reelected? I can't wait for a democrat to get into office!! Sweet mary, who would have ever thought gas would reach $5/gallon?
I am making a conscious effort to stop "gossiping" at work. It's with only one person in particular and she somehow manages to get me to say what I really think with very little or no censoring. But I'm putting it on me, not her, because in the end I control what I say. I can tell when our conversations going towards a negative direction but it feels so good to talk to someone who voices my same concerns that I just go right along with her. She's not at all a bad person, she's actually very nice. But it's just never good to gossip, you know? I justify it by convincing myself that they are MY feelings so why wouldn't I share? It's not like I'm revealing someone else's feelings. But in the end, I am talking about other people and I don't feel good about myself. So no more gossiping!! Especially since, overall, I really like my job.
Oh! For the single friends that will eventually have a wedding ... I saw the cutest wedding invitation the other day. If I could do it again, I would have totally taken the idea. It was very simple and just The Man and my style. It was the normal size of an invitation but heavier paper and semi-gloss. On one side was a picture of the couple. It filled up the whole page so from far away it looked like a professional photograph - probably one of their engagement pictures. They looked so relaxed and beautiful and the background was a park. On the other side was all the information for the wedding. Including a website where guests had to RSVP. It was a green background which matched the green from the trees in their picture with white lettering. It was so simple yet different and totally beautiful! Anyway, it's a wedding my parents are attending but because I liked the invitation so much, I told my folks I was going to hijack the invitation afterwards for anyone's future reference. I like it so much because it was a great picture of the couple and there was no fuss or muss with multiple envelopes or papers - I wish I had thought of that! Plus it didn't look that expensive to make - bonus!!!!! Now that my wedding planning days are over, I truly enjoy seeing other people's interpretations and ideas of their big day especially if it's completely different than mine. I know that destination weddings are all the rage (hello, we jumped on that bandwagon!) so I enjoy hearing how people make it work in the Bay Area. Weird, right?
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Lulu Updates
1. I just realized that I could use all the Target gift cards we received from our wedding towards buying my expensive ass conditioner!!!!! I use Pureology, which I love. But it is mighty tough on the wallet. I used to go to the fancy beauty supply stores to buy it. Well, I recently ran out and the thought of spending $55 for conditioner (see?! Granted, it's a big bottle but sheeeeeesh!) has been making me put it off. My poor hair. It's had to deal with Pantene shampoo - not even 2-in-1! Now don't get me wrong, it's all good and fine but I'm sure my hair will turn on me and break off if I don't get it some Pureology pronto.
2. I recently decided to see a chiropractor. Sort of. OK, here's the thing. I have had major pain in my left shoulder. I'm pretty sure it was when I started to work more from home than in the office. Yes, folks, all the ergonomically correct stuff that HR pushes on us is really for our own good. I was working from a laptop on a dining table. I got it checked out by my Kaiser doctor and she diagnosed it as tendonitis. She suggested I go to physically therapy. Since I knew I would have to pay a co-pay, I filed a worker's comp claim to see if I could get that covered. I ended up getting denied - I think it's because I am not technically a telecommuter. I didn't mind, though, because The Man and I ended up buying stuff to make my home office ergonomically correct and the pain went away. Well, it's back and my shoulder aches a lot. A good friend of mine swears by chiropractic care and appealed to my reasonable side by saying it was cheaper than a massage and the effects last longer than a massage. Sweet.
I love the Yelp. It's not always perfect but I feel like I can make a more educated decision than just looking in the phone book. I yelp-ed chiropractors and found Life Chiropractic College West. I read the reviews and it looked good. I know that my body is a temple and I should see a professional, not a student. But since it's my first experience with chiropractic care, I wanted to see what it was all about without shelling out a lot of money. Plus, this would also be a great way to try out a chiropractor. Once the intern graduates, and if I like her, I can follow the chiropractor and become of one her patients. I like the idea of holistic medicine (how Californian can I be?!) and this looks to be a great introduction for me. I am also comforted by the fact that these students had to earn a degree and then study roughly 18 months in chiropractic college before dealing with patients.
I had my first visit and, while the gal was a bit chatty, she appeared to truly know what she was doing. I liked that she was extremely thorough - we spend 45 minutes going over the paperwork I filled out. She then had to review her notes with a faculty doctor, who then works with her to determine the appropriate course of care for my condition. I am really looking forward to my next visit which is when I will get my first adjustment!
3. I gave in, I replaced my Nalgene bottle for a stainless steel one. Lawdee, I'm sorry for giving you a bad time, Sister! See, Sister told me early this year how she heard that certain plastic bottles weren't good for us and that they could leach toxins when kept in warm to hot temperatures. She showed me the bottle she was eyeing to replace her Nalgene bottle. "$22?!" I screeched. It didn't even hold a lot of water, maybe 18oz at most! I scoffed at her concern, saying something like it was a ploy for us to buy these new fancy bottles.
Over the months since this conversation, I saw more and more people carrying around these stainless steel water containers. Keep in mind, I work with a lot of health and wellness professionals. What finally did me in? One of the "gifts" we give to kids from my company is a water bottle. A principal gave me this note (I corrected the misspellings):
Dear Mrs. Bl00m,
I was wondering if the water bottles we got have BPA in it. I would like to know if I can use it, thanks.
Here was this third grader, granted, I'm certain her parents influenced her but here is this little girl who is concerned about drinking from the water bottle we gave her! (Which, by the way, is completely clear of PBA, thank-you-very-much.) But my Nalgene bottle - who knew? So I went onto the Nalgene website. It was vague. It basically said that bottles with the #7 weren't neccessarily bad. They weren't necessarily good either but it didn't mean it was bad. Maybe.
Whaaaaa?!
Then I went onto Amazon and found this:
National Toxicology Program at the National Institutes of Health Opinion:"Although there is no direct evidence that exposure of people to bisphenol A adversely affects reproduction or development, studies with laboratory rodents show that exposure to high dose levels of bisphenol A during pregnancy and/or lactation can reduce survival, birth weight, and growth of offspring early in life, and delay the onset of puberty in males and females. Recognizing the lack of data on the effects of bisphenol A in humans and despite the limitations in the evidence for "low" dose effects in laboratory animals, the possibility that bisphenol A may impact human development cannot be dismissed. More research is needed."Source: National Institutes of Health, National Toxicology Program. 14 April. 2008. U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services. 29 April. 2008. http://www.niehs.nih.gov/news/media/questions/sya-bpa.cfm
All right, to heck with THAT. So I caved in and bought this:
I love me some Amazon. The Man bought this 27 oz container for $16! And what's great about it is that the mouth is wide enough for me to use a baby bottle brush to clean it and it fits into my cup holder unlike the old water bottle.
Wow, this is probably one of THE MOST boring entries I've written. But I am big on drinking water. It' s one of the easiest things that I can do that is very healthy for me so I make no apologies for being very excited about my new water container :)
2. I recently decided to see a chiropractor. Sort of. OK, here's the thing. I have had major pain in my left shoulder. I'm pretty sure it was when I started to work more from home than in the office. Yes, folks, all the ergonomically correct stuff that HR pushes on us is really for our own good. I was working from a laptop on a dining table. I got it checked out by my Kaiser doctor and she diagnosed it as tendonitis. She suggested I go to physically therapy. Since I knew I would have to pay a co-pay, I filed a worker's comp claim to see if I could get that covered. I ended up getting denied - I think it's because I am not technically a telecommuter. I didn't mind, though, because The Man and I ended up buying stuff to make my home office ergonomically correct and the pain went away. Well, it's back and my shoulder aches a lot. A good friend of mine swears by chiropractic care and appealed to my reasonable side by saying it was cheaper than a massage and the effects last longer than a massage. Sweet.
I love the Yelp. It's not always perfect but I feel like I can make a more educated decision than just looking in the phone book. I yelp-ed chiropractors and found Life Chiropractic College West. I read the reviews and it looked good. I know that my body is a temple and I should see a professional, not a student. But since it's my first experience with chiropractic care, I wanted to see what it was all about without shelling out a lot of money. Plus, this would also be a great way to try out a chiropractor. Once the intern graduates, and if I like her, I can follow the chiropractor and become of one her patients. I like the idea of holistic medicine (how Californian can I be?!) and this looks to be a great introduction for me. I am also comforted by the fact that these students had to earn a degree and then study roughly 18 months in chiropractic college before dealing with patients.
I had my first visit and, while the gal was a bit chatty, she appeared to truly know what she was doing. I liked that she was extremely thorough - we spend 45 minutes going over the paperwork I filled out. She then had to review her notes with a faculty doctor, who then works with her to determine the appropriate course of care for my condition. I am really looking forward to my next visit which is when I will get my first adjustment!
3. I gave in, I replaced my Nalgene bottle for a stainless steel one. Lawdee, I'm sorry for giving you a bad time, Sister! See, Sister told me early this year how she heard that certain plastic bottles weren't good for us and that they could leach toxins when kept in warm to hot temperatures. She showed me the bottle she was eyeing to replace her Nalgene bottle. "$22?!" I screeched. It didn't even hold a lot of water, maybe 18oz at most! I scoffed at her concern, saying something like it was a ploy for us to buy these new fancy bottles.
Over the months since this conversation, I saw more and more people carrying around these stainless steel water containers. Keep in mind, I work with a lot of health and wellness professionals. What finally did me in? One of the "gifts" we give to kids from my company is a water bottle. A principal gave me this note (I corrected the misspellings):
Dear Mrs. Bl00m,
I was wondering if the water bottles we got have BPA in it. I would like to know if I can use it, thanks.
Here was this third grader, granted, I'm certain her parents influenced her but here is this little girl who is concerned about drinking from the water bottle we gave her! (Which, by the way, is completely clear of PBA, thank-you-very-much.) But my Nalgene bottle - who knew? So I went onto the Nalgene website. It was vague. It basically said that bottles with the #7 weren't neccessarily bad. They weren't necessarily good either but it didn't mean it was bad. Maybe.
Whaaaaa?!
Then I went onto Amazon and found this:
National Toxicology Program at the National Institutes of Health Opinion:"Although there is no direct evidence that exposure of people to bisphenol A adversely affects reproduction or development, studies with laboratory rodents show that exposure to high dose levels of bisphenol A during pregnancy and/or lactation can reduce survival, birth weight, and growth of offspring early in life, and delay the onset of puberty in males and females. Recognizing the lack of data on the effects of bisphenol A in humans and despite the limitations in the evidence for "low" dose effects in laboratory animals, the possibility that bisphenol A may impact human development cannot be dismissed. More research is needed."Source: National Institutes of Health, National Toxicology Program. 14 April. 2008. U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services. 29 April. 2008. http://www.niehs.nih.gov/news/media/questions/sya-bpa.cfm
All right, to heck with THAT. So I caved in and bought this:
I love me some Amazon. The Man bought this 27 oz container for $16! And what's great about it is that the mouth is wide enough for me to use a baby bottle brush to clean it and it fits into my cup holder unlike the old water bottle.
Wow, this is probably one of THE MOST boring entries I've written. But I am big on drinking water. It' s one of the easiest things that I can do that is very healthy for me so I make no apologies for being very excited about my new water container :)
Friday, June 13, 2008
A truly deep and important topic
My hair. This internal battle happens every so often, usually when I have too much time on my hands or if it's hot.
Well, it's getting hot.
I remember when I was 21 years old I promised myself that I would cut my hair when I turned 25. I wanted to be a reporter and knew that I would have to have a stylish yet sensible bob. Yahhhh, and when that time came around, I was in grad school studing broadcasting and realizing that I didn't want a career in television. Oops.
Then year after year, I entertained the idea and chickened out. This past year, knew I wanted to grow it out for the wedding because I wanted long, pretty curls. Obviously the wedding has come and gone and here it is, 85+ degrees and I'm hot as all get out again.
Recently I've been looking at these women with their sophisticated angled bobs (you know, the one where it's longer in the front and the back is so short it's even shaved.) I've also been admiring those really daring cuts where the hair is just two or three inches long and it's spikey but still feminine with very cool highlights. Very femmebot, if you will. They look so cute and cool in this summer heat while I feel like I'm just melting away, looking sweaty and having limp hair. Ponytails and buns are my only boring saviors.
But I am a big ol' chicken. I'm still traumatized over my early college years when I chopped off more than a foot (result from a broken heart) and didn't know anything about hair to ask for it to be layered. So there I was, looking like a saucerhead. Or mushroom. Not a pretty time in my life.
So there it is, folks. All that hair. I posted a picture because other than it looking red from the sunlight (it's actually brown to dark brown,) it's pretty accurate. That hair, people, causes my body temp to rise 5-10 degrees from the actual temperature outside. OK, no scientific proof but it feels that way. And I know that I will just grin and bear it - or bitch and bear it - for the summer and then forget all about my urge to cut it in the winter. Because that's when I really appreciate being 5-10 degrees warmer.
Or I'll finally get the stones to do it and just chop it all off. We'll see.
Well, it's getting hot.
I remember when I was 21 years old I promised myself that I would cut my hair when I turned 25. I wanted to be a reporter and knew that I would have to have a stylish yet sensible bob. Yahhhh, and when that time came around, I was in grad school studing broadcasting and realizing that I didn't want a career in television. Oops.
Then year after year, I entertained the idea and chickened out. This past year, knew I wanted to grow it out for the wedding because I wanted long, pretty curls. Obviously the wedding has come and gone and here it is, 85+ degrees and I'm hot as all get out again.
Recently I've been looking at these women with their sophisticated angled bobs (you know, the one where it's longer in the front and the back is so short it's even shaved.) I've also been admiring those really daring cuts where the hair is just two or three inches long and it's spikey but still feminine with very cool highlights. Very femmebot, if you will. They look so cute and cool in this summer heat while I feel like I'm just melting away, looking sweaty and having limp hair. Ponytails and buns are my only boring saviors.But I am a big ol' chicken. I'm still traumatized over my early college years when I chopped off more than a foot (result from a broken heart) and didn't know anything about hair to ask for it to be layered. So there I was, looking like a saucerhead. Or mushroom. Not a pretty time in my life.
So there it is, folks. All that hair. I posted a picture because other than it looking red from the sunlight (it's actually brown to dark brown,) it's pretty accurate. That hair, people, causes my body temp to rise 5-10 degrees from the actual temperature outside. OK, no scientific proof but it feels that way. And I know that I will just grin and bear it - or bitch and bear it - for the summer and then forget all about my urge to cut it in the winter. Because that's when I really appreciate being 5-10 degrees warmer.
Or I'll finally get the stones to do it and just chop it all off. We'll see.
----------------------------
I like this blog. And her most recent entry reminded me that I had written a while back that I wanted to write about good things that happen to me just as a reminder that life really isn't that bad. And it's so easy to complain ... why isn't it just as easy to be positive? Here goes:
1. My parents invited us over for a BBQ dinner and it was goooood.
2. I'm looking over at the couch right now and both The Man and Pili are sleeping on their backs with Pili cuddling up against his leg. So freakin' cute!
3. I'm grateful I can work from home.
4. I talked to my long lost (well, for a few months!) BFF at work and although she's moving to a different department, she said we'll still be work BFFs :)
5. The purse I'm knitting up is looking nice.
It's kind of sad that I had to pause and think of five simple things that were positive. I bet, without hesitation, I could list all sorts of stuff to bitch about. Hopefully if I'm able to stick with it, the good stuff will be easier to remember! I know, how Sunshine Suzy of me but I don't care! I need a little more Miss Merry Sunshine in me!!!
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Continuing to feel content ... despite the government having it in for me.
I was driving back home this morning, happy as can be. The sun was shining, not a cloud in the sky and I felt at peace. My life, while far from perfect, is a good one and I was thankful for that.
Then I remembered that I received a letter that said I owed the government over $1,500. What is depressing is that it's true - I do. The Man made an oopsie when he filed my 2006 taxes. Not his fault. They were my forms and I should have double checked. He just thought that the bank had made an error. Uh, they didn't. And now I owe big bucks.
Ugh.
And then a couple days later I got two, yes TWO, summons for Jury Service. One for June 30th in Oakland and then another one for July 1st in Hayward. Is that even possible?! I have to call to see if that is an oopsie on someone else's part. Because that kind of sucks.
So, despite having to write a f-a-t check and most likely having jury duty in a few weeks, I'm still happy. I just want to know who I ticked off so I can do some major @ss kissing. Seriously - two jury summons?! There has to be someone who has it in for me!
Then I remembered that I received a letter that said I owed the government over $1,500. What is depressing is that it's true - I do. The Man made an oopsie when he filed my 2006 taxes. Not his fault. They were my forms and I should have double checked. He just thought that the bank had made an error. Uh, they didn't. And now I owe big bucks.
Ugh.
And then a couple days later I got two, yes TWO, summons for Jury Service. One for June 30th in Oakland and then another one for July 1st in Hayward. Is that even possible?! I have to call to see if that is an oopsie on someone else's part. Because that kind of sucks.
So, despite having to write a f-a-t check and most likely having jury duty in a few weeks, I'm still happy. I just want to know who I ticked off so I can do some major @ss kissing. Seriously - two jury summons?! There has to be someone who has it in for me!
Saturday, May 31, 2008
A lazy blogger, I do make
Things haven't been terribly busy, I've just been lazy. I'm back to my regular routine for the most part. I can't seem to form paragraphs in my head (go 11 years of public education!!) so I'll just write by topic.
Does it feel any different: Yup, still getting asked this question! And while our day to day lives are still the same, you know what? It is a little different. I have a whole new feeling of contentment. And now he's a little more worried, at times. Like he realized that he didn't know exactly where I went when I go to yoga and knitting. He had an idea but he didn't know the address. He said recently, "You know, maybe you should write down your schedule somewhere, with addresses. What if you go missing and I call the police and I have no idea where to tell them to look?" Valid point but something he never worried about before. It's sweet. Of course, one could be negative and think, 'You didn't give a crap when I was you girlfriend??' Luckily, that's not me:)
Career: If you followed the depressing saga that was my last job, you know that I was miserable. I think that experience has helped me, though, to realize what I want, what I'll put up with and what will make my walk out the door. My current job is challenging, sometimes difficult and every so often a pain in my ass. But I still I love my job. At the last place, unfortunately, I had doubts within the first two months. I have been with my current company for over a year and still love it.
I have an expected 35% growth from last fiscal year and have exceeded everybody's expectations. My territory has done better than what my boss and colleagues (and me!) thought it would do. Of course I work very hard. But with my position, things can still blow up in my face and go down the pooper. So I am very happy - and relieved - by how I will end this fiscal year. What was kind of a cool thing is that my supervisor's boss, a senior VP, recently asked to be one of three presenters at our training academy this summer! I'm a bit nervous because I don't like telling people what they should do or what I think will make them successful, especially to folks who have been in the position longer than me. I suppose it's all in the delivery. But I'm excited that I was asked! It's not all sunshine and roses, believe me. But it's really good. Of course, the little sunshine squasher in me is thinking, 'You've got to do the same thing all over again in July!' That makes me shudder a little. But I push those thoughts away.
Working out: Oh boy, if there is one thing I've let go of is this task! Two months out prior to the wedding, I was doing cardio 3x a week, power yoga 2x a week and weight resistance 3x a week. Can you believe that?! And if you did the math, no I'm not exaggerating and putting in an eight day week. I would do cardio before vinyasa yoga. I woke up at 4:50am to be at the gym by 5:45am!!! Now I'm sure there are some gym buffs out there who go much earlier or do much more. But for me, for MY standards, I was kicking my own ass. I lost a total of 7 lbs and while I didn't hit my goal, I was happy to have gotten to that point.
And then there's me POST wedding. Ah hmm, well .... let's just say that I need to self motivate because I'm getting a little too comfortable. I knew that I couldn't keep up the crazy schedule prior to the wedding. I mean, I could but realistically, I knew I wouldn't. So the new routine is to do cardio 2x a week, yoga 2x a week and strength training 2x a week. Riiiiight ... last week I did everything just once. And "Yayy me!" for going to the gym. But I have to admit that I'm disappointed in myself. I can do better. I can BE better. So this is something I have to work on.
Baby: So guess whaaaat?! Just kidding :) I love The Man. He has changed so much in the way he communicates to satisfy his wife's needs. Umm, I'm positive there are delusional men out there who think, 'She has two degrees in communication but she won't expect ME to communicate.' Idiots. Anyway, we broached the baby topic while on our honeymoon. Actually, it was me looking around our beautiful surroundings while we were laying out and I started to worry. How can we do this if we have a baby? How can we afford this? How can we enjoy this if we can afford to bring baby with us? Do I want to bring baby with us??
Oh yes, not a melt down but a little bit of a freak out. So I asked him, "Hon, how can we go on vacations like this if we have a baby?" He said, "We can't." And then I said, "Remember how I wanted to try next year? Well, I'd like to push it back. I want to go on a few more mini moons with you before we have a baby." He said that he wanted us to be financially stable, have a home and a few more things before we have a child so it was fine by him. Thank goodness we are on the same page! Of course, because I have a naughty sense of humor, every so often I'll hug him and whisper, "Let's forget about what we talked about and have a baby." He'll pretend to push me away and say, "Stop that! Are you taking your pill?" Hehehe. My sister knows that I am also waiting (and hoping!) that my maternal instincts will kick in in the next couple of years. Luckily the puppies have been good yet gentle training.
So that's all I can think of for now. I desperately want to go on another vacation - Hawaii or Mexico (I've been hearing great things about the all-inclusive resorts!) But we have to wait a little bit, let our bank accounts recuperate and all that good stuff. I'm happy that I have no more of the post vacation blues, though! Just enjoying being with The Man, the puppies and my every day life. I'm a very happy woman.
Does it feel any different: Yup, still getting asked this question! And while our day to day lives are still the same, you know what? It is a little different. I have a whole new feeling of contentment. And now he's a little more worried, at times. Like he realized that he didn't know exactly where I went when I go to yoga and knitting. He had an idea but he didn't know the address. He said recently, "You know, maybe you should write down your schedule somewhere, with addresses. What if you go missing and I call the police and I have no idea where to tell them to look?" Valid point but something he never worried about before. It's sweet. Of course, one could be negative and think, 'You didn't give a crap when I was you girlfriend??' Luckily, that's not me:)
Career: If you followed the depressing saga that was my last job, you know that I was miserable. I think that experience has helped me, though, to realize what I want, what I'll put up with and what will make my walk out the door. My current job is challenging, sometimes difficult and every so often a pain in my ass. But I still I love my job. At the last place, unfortunately, I had doubts within the first two months. I have been with my current company for over a year and still love it.
I have an expected 35% growth from last fiscal year and have exceeded everybody's expectations. My territory has done better than what my boss and colleagues (and me!) thought it would do. Of course I work very hard. But with my position, things can still blow up in my face and go down the pooper. So I am very happy - and relieved - by how I will end this fiscal year. What was kind of a cool thing is that my supervisor's boss, a senior VP, recently asked to be one of three presenters at our training academy this summer! I'm a bit nervous because I don't like telling people what they should do or what I think will make them successful, especially to folks who have been in the position longer than me. I suppose it's all in the delivery. But I'm excited that I was asked! It's not all sunshine and roses, believe me. But it's really good. Of course, the little sunshine squasher in me is thinking, 'You've got to do the same thing all over again in July!' That makes me shudder a little. But I push those thoughts away.
Working out: Oh boy, if there is one thing I've let go of is this task! Two months out prior to the wedding, I was doing cardio 3x a week, power yoga 2x a week and weight resistance 3x a week. Can you believe that?! And if you did the math, no I'm not exaggerating and putting in an eight day week. I would do cardio before vinyasa yoga. I woke up at 4:50am to be at the gym by 5:45am!!! Now I'm sure there are some gym buffs out there who go much earlier or do much more. But for me, for MY standards, I was kicking my own ass. I lost a total of 7 lbs and while I didn't hit my goal, I was happy to have gotten to that point.
And then there's me POST wedding. Ah hmm, well .... let's just say that I need to self motivate because I'm getting a little too comfortable. I knew that I couldn't keep up the crazy schedule prior to the wedding. I mean, I could but realistically, I knew I wouldn't. So the new routine is to do cardio 2x a week, yoga 2x a week and strength training 2x a week. Riiiiight ... last week I did everything just once. And "Yayy me!" for going to the gym. But I have to admit that I'm disappointed in myself. I can do better. I can BE better. So this is something I have to work on.
Baby: So guess whaaaat?! Just kidding :) I love The Man. He has changed so much in the way he communicates to satisfy his wife's needs. Umm, I'm positive there are delusional men out there who think, 'She has two degrees in communication but she won't expect ME to communicate.' Idiots. Anyway, we broached the baby topic while on our honeymoon. Actually, it was me looking around our beautiful surroundings while we were laying out and I started to worry. How can we do this if we have a baby? How can we afford this? How can we enjoy this if we can afford to bring baby with us? Do I want to bring baby with us??
Oh yes, not a melt down but a little bit of a freak out. So I asked him, "Hon, how can we go on vacations like this if we have a baby?" He said, "We can't." And then I said, "Remember how I wanted to try next year? Well, I'd like to push it back. I want to go on a few more mini moons with you before we have a baby." He said that he wanted us to be financially stable, have a home and a few more things before we have a child so it was fine by him. Thank goodness we are on the same page! Of course, because I have a naughty sense of humor, every so often I'll hug him and whisper, "Let's forget about what we talked about and have a baby." He'll pretend to push me away and say, "Stop that! Are you taking your pill?" Hehehe. My sister knows that I am also waiting (and hoping!) that my maternal instincts will kick in in the next couple of years. Luckily the puppies have been good yet gentle training.
So that's all I can think of for now. I desperately want to go on another vacation - Hawaii or Mexico (I've been hearing great things about the all-inclusive resorts!) But we have to wait a little bit, let our bank accounts recuperate and all that good stuff. I'm happy that I have no more of the post vacation blues, though! Just enjoying being with The Man, the puppies and my every day life. I'm a very happy woman.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
THE video
We finally have our wedding video! This was the last piece we were waiting from our photography/videography company and we were so excited to finally receive it. I've been kind of a lazy blogger ... I want to write about our honeymoon because it was our first time in Kauai (and at a five star resort!) but The Man keeps making videos so it's just easier to post those. Of course THIS video is from our videographer. He separated into three parts – highlights, ceremony, and interviews. I won't post the footage from the ceremony because it's about ten minutes long and it's embarrassing for The Man and me to watch. The first clip is highlights from the entire wedding. The whole sha-bang in four minutes – I love that :) The second clip, the interviews, may be interesting to just family members. We asked that people tape messages to us. We had quite a few shy people in the bunch, my parents included, but the folks who did get on the video were really sweet. Be warned, my friends affectionately used the words, "VJJ" and "poon" .. and I didn't expect anything less. (Yes, these were the women I used to say exchange inappropriate words with on a daily basis.) Jon was a little confused on how they used these words. He had thought he understand what they meant but then they used it them in a completely different context. I had to explain that not only are they synonyms for lady parts and replacements for curse words but also terms of endearment. Hehe. Anyway, all messages were all touching and The Man's mom at the end was probably the only one who almost made me cry. About that - the slideshow, the photographs and even the video didn't make me shed a tear. The only reason I can think of is that although I am usually a weeper, the self-conscious side of me was stronger. I couldn't help notice how I sounded, when my make up got smeared, and the unflattering shots where I looked chubbier ... so no crying for me! I'm just a harsh critic of myself which, I think, prevents me from getting completely mushy over anything. Despite that, I have to admit that I am over the moon about everything our photographers and videographer gave us and I am so happy we chose them to document such an important day in our lives. I think The Man looks absolutely handsome and I am just beaming with happiness and love. See? Mushy :)
Wedding highlights:
Interviews:
**Please let me know if it's difficult to view footage on vimeo. The Man likes it because it's a whole lot clearer than YouTube but I don't know if it's a pain to view things. 5/25/08 update: I've gone ahead and changed to YouTube. I can't be having stuff cut out at the end! :P
Wedding highlights:
Interviews:
**Please let me know if it's difficult to view footage on vimeo. The Man likes it because it's a whole lot clearer than YouTube but I don't know if it's a pain to view things. 5/25/08 update: I've gone ahead and changed to YouTube. I can't be having stuff cut out at the end! :P
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
The Man's on a roll ...
he's gone and made a couple more videos of our wedding and honeymoon. What's great about posting it on this blog is that you can choose to to view them rather than us sitting you in front of our TV and making you watch. All the while watching you watch them so you have to then pretend you are captivated. If you want to see them - great. If not, we'll never know :) They aren't nearly as crazy as the "Death March Monday" video but if you've got some time ... check them out.
The first one is highlights of our honeymoon and has an upbeat tone. The Man, for whatever reason, chose a Michael Jackson song. Cracked me up. Then the second is a little more sappy (his words, not mine.) I think it's sweet but it may be a bit slow for anyone that wasn't there. Or just doesn't care. Unless you're emotionally invested, it just may not mean as much. Anyway, here you go!
Gil and LizaDawn's Honeymoon snippet from Gram on Vimeo.
More of the honeymoon from Gram on Vimeo.
The first one is highlights of our honeymoon and has an upbeat tone. The Man, for whatever reason, chose a Michael Jackson song. Cracked me up. Then the second is a little more sappy (his words, not mine.) I think it's sweet but it may be a bit slow for anyone that wasn't there. Or just doesn't care. Unless you're emotionally invested, it just may not mean as much. Anyway, here you go!
Gil and LizaDawn's Honeymoon snippet from Gram on Vimeo.
More of the honeymoon from Gram on Vimeo.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Let's go back to the wedding reception for a minute ...
My sister gave a very sweet and touching Matron of Honor speech. She is a very good public speaker (even though she will protest and say she isn't) so she committed her speech to memory. The brother-in-law wrote his speech down but wasn't able to print it out - he was having problems with the hotel's business center and it wouldn't work. Just like The Man, his brother finished the speech the day of the wedding so that was probably why he was pressed for time. But, luckily, he DID write it down ... so I can share it with you :)
Best man speech
Hello. First of all, thank you to everyone who helped this special occasion possible and thank you to all the friends and family for being present here today.
For all of for those of you who couldn’t tell by our uncanny resemblance, I am Gil’s younger, better looking brother, Marvin.
Umm to be honest, I’m terribly nervous and I’m horrible at making speeches. Today I considered bailing out instead of making this speech. Then, I thought to myself: “You know what you need Marvin. You need courage. The courage that firefighters posses to run into a burning building or the same courage it takes to marry the likes of my brother, Gil. “I’d like this moment to thank LizaDawn. Who will forever be a source of inspiration for the meek in our hour of despair. You will continue to have a tremendous influence in our daily struggles. We thank you.
Now for a poem. This isn’t an ordinary poem as it lacks any fundamentals of poetry like iambic pentameter, grammar and other pointless things.
To Gil, my little flower has finally blossomed. My, have you grown so much. Your petals seem to touch the sky signifying your passage beyond your insecurities and inadequacies proving that you no longer need alcohol to get women into bed. With this union you assured me that you are a heterosexual. Believe me, I had my doubts but I think the security guards at the gym might need a bit more convincing before they allow you back into the men’s locker room. Well now’s your chance Gil. Bloom, my little flower, bloom.
On a more serious note, Gil and LizaDawn do make beautiful couple. Being single and, yes, I am single, I hope to find a friendship and love as rare as these two share. I wish them all the best. Your happiness is our happiness. You had better remember this as my mouth will never utter such sappiness again.
To finish I’d like to welcome LizaDawn to the family, as now she is the prettiest one in the family… second to me, of course.
Best man speech
Hello. First of all, thank you to everyone who helped this special occasion possible and thank you to all the friends and family for being present here today.
For all of for those of you who couldn’t tell by our uncanny resemblance, I am Gil’s younger, better looking brother, Marvin.
Umm to be honest, I’m terribly nervous and I’m horrible at making speeches. Today I considered bailing out instead of making this speech. Then, I thought to myself: “You know what you need Marvin. You need courage. The courage that firefighters posses to run into a burning building or the same courage it takes to marry the likes of my brother, Gil. “I’d like this moment to thank LizaDawn. Who will forever be a source of inspiration for the meek in our hour of despair. You will continue to have a tremendous influence in our daily struggles. We thank you.
Now for a poem. This isn’t an ordinary poem as it lacks any fundamentals of poetry like iambic pentameter, grammar and other pointless things.
To Gil, my little flower has finally blossomed. My, have you grown so much. Your petals seem to touch the sky signifying your passage beyond your insecurities and inadequacies proving that you no longer need alcohol to get women into bed. With this union you assured me that you are a heterosexual. Believe me, I had my doubts but I think the security guards at the gym might need a bit more convincing before they allow you back into the men’s locker room. Well now’s your chance Gil. Bloom, my little flower, bloom.
On a more serious note, Gil and LizaDawn do make beautiful couple. Being single and, yes, I am single, I hope to find a friendship and love as rare as these two share. I wish them all the best. Your happiness is our happiness. You had better remember this as my mouth will never utter such sappiness again.
To finish I’d like to welcome LizaDawn to the family, as now she is the prettiest one in the family… second to me, of course.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Leisurely hike, my @ss
The Man wanted to do several adventurous things while we were on vacation. No problem, I said. Kayaking, ziplining and ATV - sounds like fun. "Oh hon," my new husband said, "I'd like to go on an adventure trail but it's all day. Don't worry, the book says it's easy. Takes an hour and a half to get to and it's faster going back down the mountain."
Evidently, easy is subjective. I should have raised more questions when I saw we were packing 128 oz of water, a compass and snacks. Also keep in mind that I am very clear about my likes and dislikes. More power to you if you enjoy camping. I do not. I am much better at beaches and regional parks – places that the city or county are in charge of maintaining. I am not good in the wilderness. By wilderness, I mean the jungle.
After four hours of hiking, we were at the secret tunnel. We couldn't go through and continue, though, because it was going to be dark in a couple of hours and we needed to be done before then or else we would be in complete darkness. I broke down crying three times. I mean, all out, hyperventilating sobs. I'm not proud, it was what it was. I was exhausted, cold, wet, muddy and had fallen numerous times. It got to the point where I was scared of everything because I was falling left and right. To be fair to The Man, the book did mark this trail as easy. And the book also said it would be muddy for only the first 150 yards. It was muddy the ENTIRE TIME. I wore sneakers but lost traction from all the mud gathered in the treads. And sometimes I lost my sneakers in the mud. But we finished in 6 1/2 hours. We made it back to the car right after sunset so there was still a little light left.
Honestly, I hated this hike. I prefer nicely paved or packed trails ... like Diamond Head. I was so tired but this was really important to him and something that he wanted us to do so, by golly, I wasn’t going to quit. We were going to find that damn tunnel! And with the help of his compass, going on wrong trails that lead us back to where we started and running into poor strangers who bought the same guidebook as us, we finally found that ugly tunnel. The Man felt bad that I was bruised, bitten and scratched (and hating life!) so I got a spa treatment the next day ... on him!
Anyway, The Man documented our hike and made a video. Unfortunately, there was no way I could hike and hold the camera so there's no footage of him :( But I told him within the first 10 minutes, I would have slipped and smashed his camera against a rock so it was for the best. You will see from his editing that he has a kooky sense of humor. Yes, I love my husband.
Death March Monday HD from Gram on Vimeo.
PS: At the end, he mentioned that I couldn't sleep that night. It's true! I kept dreaming that I was falling, slipping or tripping. My body would jerk and I would gasp, "Honey! I fell!" And he laughed and said I was dreaming. This happened at least four times during the night.
Evidently, easy is subjective. I should have raised more questions when I saw we were packing 128 oz of water, a compass and snacks. Also keep in mind that I am very clear about my likes and dislikes. More power to you if you enjoy camping. I do not. I am much better at beaches and regional parks – places that the city or county are in charge of maintaining. I am not good in the wilderness. By wilderness, I mean the jungle.
After four hours of hiking, we were at the secret tunnel. We couldn't go through and continue, though, because it was going to be dark in a couple of hours and we needed to be done before then or else we would be in complete darkness. I broke down crying three times. I mean, all out, hyperventilating sobs. I'm not proud, it was what it was. I was exhausted, cold, wet, muddy and had fallen numerous times. It got to the point where I was scared of everything because I was falling left and right. To be fair to The Man, the book did mark this trail as easy. And the book also said it would be muddy for only the first 150 yards. It was muddy the ENTIRE TIME. I wore sneakers but lost traction from all the mud gathered in the treads. And sometimes I lost my sneakers in the mud. But we finished in 6 1/2 hours. We made it back to the car right after sunset so there was still a little light left.
Honestly, I hated this hike. I prefer nicely paved or packed trails ... like Diamond Head. I was so tired but this was really important to him and something that he wanted us to do so, by golly, I wasn’t going to quit. We were going to find that damn tunnel! And with the help of his compass, going on wrong trails that lead us back to where we started and running into poor strangers who bought the same guidebook as us, we finally found that ugly tunnel. The Man felt bad that I was bruised, bitten and scratched (and hating life!) so I got a spa treatment the next day ... on him!
Anyway, The Man documented our hike and made a video. Unfortunately, there was no way I could hike and hold the camera so there's no footage of him :( But I told him within the first 10 minutes, I would have slipped and smashed his camera against a rock so it was for the best. You will see from his editing that he has a kooky sense of humor. Yes, I love my husband.
Death March Monday HD from Gram on Vimeo.
PS: At the end, he mentioned that I couldn't sleep that night. It's true! I kept dreaming that I was falling, slipping or tripping. My body would jerk and I would gasp, "Honey! I fell!" And he laughed and said I was dreaming. This happened at least four times during the night.
Thursday, May 08, 2008
The day we tied the knot
I'm going to just post our DOLs and not describe the day because I could never do it justice ... at least, in my eyes. I loved every moment of it and couldn't have asked for a better wedding ceremony and reception.
I had written my declaration of love a while back because I didn't want to have to worry about it as the day drew closer. The Man used a different approach and finished writing it the night before. But you'll find that mine cracks a lot of jokes while his was pretty deep. He worried that it would be too sappy and didn't really like it. He had no idea that he would have many of my female relatives in tears! He didn't make me cry but it wasn't a bad thing. We have good communication in our relationship but rarely are we completely serious with each other. So all those pictures of me smiling are actually because of his declaration of love - it was very different and special from how we usually talk to one another. (The one time I cried during the ceremony was when my declaration because a little more serious - that's what I get for showing my softer side!) Anyway, I will post mine first and then his because I think his is better :)
My Filipino Matt Damon, happy six year anniversary. What better way to celebrate than getting hitched? I think I’ve been pretty good about making sure you know you are loved. And I do love you very much for so many reasons. I love you for your sense of humor. You make me laugh so much. I always tell you that I wish I wrote down the funny things we say to each other because we always seem to forget. But I always remember that you make me smile. For instance, you make me laugh because you can never remember more than five words to any song and all the melodies sound exactly the same. Yet somehow I can usually guess what song your singing. Also, your imitation of Korean, Japanese, Mexican and Australian accents get muddled into one indistinct accent. How? I don’t know. But they do. What’s even funnier is that your imitations of Filipino and Indian accents are even worse – they sound exactly the same. I also think the voices you give to Piko and Pili are funny. Thank you for letting me know in their own words that they are neglected by me. These are just a few of the many things you do that make me laugh.
I love you because you are patient. For example, goodness knows that you and I clash when it comes to home repair. That’s what I get for being involved with someone who is so handy around the house. It’s a blessing because it’s so wonderful to be with someone who can repair things, build things or make things better. It’s a curse because I don’t remember ever signing up for an apprenticeship. Which brings me back to you being patient. I know you expect only as much as you expect from yourself. But what you get from me, especially regarding home repairs, is far from perfection. But I give you credit! I see the vein bulging in your forehead. I see your brows furrowed in frustration, but then, with a strain your voice, you just tell me yet again that I need to watch how you paint a door so I can copy your method to ensure there are no streaks. Which leads me to another reason why I love you …
You know how to compromise. I no longer have to do home repair because I am in charge of cleaning the house. I can’t begin to tell you how much I love you for that! I love you because you are comforting. When I am sick, you either buy or rent a romantic comedy because you knew they made me feel better. Even though you don’t enjoy them nearly as much as I do. When I was having a really hard time with work, you would make me hug a puppy because you said it would make me feel better. It did! And when you know I am feeling really down, you would make me drop everything and go to the beach. Going to the beach almost always cheer me up. Other times, it was just your company that would soothe me and make me feel better.
What you may not know, because we joke around so much and are very sarcastic with each other is how much admiration I have for you. You are a wonderful person. I admire your values, morals, intelligence and overall character. You are amazing. You have so much goodness in you and you continue to amaze me. You are so devoted to your family and loved ones. And that has even carried over to my family. You probably don’t know this but when you show concern for my parents’ well being or worried about something in their home, I see how you share your love and concern for those who are so very important to me. And that inspires me. You make me want to be a better person. I see how you express your goodness through your actions and you make me want to strive to be just as an amazing person as you are. I think you are truly an exceptional person. There are not enough words to express just how much I am in love with you. I have loved the six years we have been together and I look forward to the 100 more years of joking, laughing and loving. And no home repair.
-------------------------------------------------
I still remember the first time you and I met at a friends house. You walked in and I thought you looked so much different from anyone else. A few minutes after arriving, you told this funny story about a cockroach in a way that only you could. Your eyes lit up, your hands danced in the air while you talked and your body shook with laughter and excitement. That cockroach story did it for me. You had this personality that really drew me to you and I had hoped that I’d run into you again. When we eventually began our relationship, we would talk all night long about everything and anything. I looked forward to knowing everything about you because we had so many things in common. We made sure to make time for one another every day. Each night, you wanted me to give you a new and different reason that I loved you. So every day it became a tradition that I end every nightly conversation with “I love you because”.
I love you because you’re my best friend. I love you because you make me a better person. I love you because you believe in me more than I believe in myself. I love you because you know how to comfort me if I start to turn green with anger. I love you because you’ll never let us walk without holding hands. I love you because you’ll never let us go to bed angry. I love you because talking to you makes a bad day feel O.K. I love you because it makes me laugh when you can’t stop yourself from eating chocolate. I love you because you’re beautiful, hardworking, intelligent and driven. I love you because you’re still humble, modest and reserved. I love you because you accept all my faults and compliment all my strengths. I love you because you still look at me the way you did when we first started dating. I love you because I can always trust you. I love you because I can depend on you to constantly remind me to do things that I may be putting off. I love you because we can laugh at so many things together. I love you because you take of and respect your family. I love you because sometimes you slip and talk to me like I’m one of your girlfriends but I know you do that because you’re so comfortable with me. I love you because you are willing to get your hands dirty with me even though I know you’d rather be knitting. I love you because you are the first to forgive, the first to want to communicate and the last to hold a grudge. I love you because I have so many reasons to love you, to appreciate you and to be thankful for you. I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you, sharing my thoughts with you, caring for you, protecting you, laughing with you, appreciating you, having kids with you and growing old with you.
I had written my declaration of love a while back because I didn't want to have to worry about it as the day drew closer. The Man used a different approach and finished writing it the night before. But you'll find that mine cracks a lot of jokes while his was pretty deep. He worried that it would be too sappy and didn't really like it. He had no idea that he would have many of my female relatives in tears! He didn't make me cry but it wasn't a bad thing. We have good communication in our relationship but rarely are we completely serious with each other. So all those pictures of me smiling are actually because of his declaration of love - it was very different and special from how we usually talk to one another. (The one time I cried during the ceremony was when my declaration because a little more serious - that's what I get for showing my softer side!) Anyway, I will post mine first and then his because I think his is better :)
My Filipino Matt Damon, happy six year anniversary. What better way to celebrate than getting hitched? I think I’ve been pretty good about making sure you know you are loved. And I do love you very much for so many reasons. I love you for your sense of humor. You make me laugh so much. I always tell you that I wish I wrote down the funny things we say to each other because we always seem to forget. But I always remember that you make me smile. For instance, you make me laugh because you can never remember more than five words to any song and all the melodies sound exactly the same. Yet somehow I can usually guess what song your singing. Also, your imitation of Korean, Japanese, Mexican and Australian accents get muddled into one indistinct accent. How? I don’t know. But they do. What’s even funnier is that your imitations of Filipino and Indian accents are even worse – they sound exactly the same. I also think the voices you give to Piko and Pili are funny. Thank you for letting me know in their own words that they are neglected by me. These are just a few of the many things you do that make me laugh.
I love you because you are patient. For example, goodness knows that you and I clash when it comes to home repair. That’s what I get for being involved with someone who is so handy around the house. It’s a blessing because it’s so wonderful to be with someone who can repair things, build things or make things better. It’s a curse because I don’t remember ever signing up for an apprenticeship. Which brings me back to you being patient. I know you expect only as much as you expect from yourself. But what you get from me, especially regarding home repairs, is far from perfection. But I give you credit! I see the vein bulging in your forehead. I see your brows furrowed in frustration, but then, with a strain your voice, you just tell me yet again that I need to watch how you paint a door so I can copy your method to ensure there are no streaks. Which leads me to another reason why I love you …
You know how to compromise. I no longer have to do home repair because I am in charge of cleaning the house. I can’t begin to tell you how much I love you for that! I love you because you are comforting. When I am sick, you either buy or rent a romantic comedy because you knew they made me feel better. Even though you don’t enjoy them nearly as much as I do. When I was having a really hard time with work, you would make me hug a puppy because you said it would make me feel better. It did! And when you know I am feeling really down, you would make me drop everything and go to the beach. Going to the beach almost always cheer me up. Other times, it was just your company that would soothe me and make me feel better.
What you may not know, because we joke around so much and are very sarcastic with each other is how much admiration I have for you. You are a wonderful person. I admire your values, morals, intelligence and overall character. You are amazing. You have so much goodness in you and you continue to amaze me. You are so devoted to your family and loved ones. And that has even carried over to my family. You probably don’t know this but when you show concern for my parents’ well being or worried about something in their home, I see how you share your love and concern for those who are so very important to me. And that inspires me. You make me want to be a better person. I see how you express your goodness through your actions and you make me want to strive to be just as an amazing person as you are. I think you are truly an exceptional person. There are not enough words to express just how much I am in love with you. I have loved the six years we have been together and I look forward to the 100 more years of joking, laughing and loving. And no home repair.
-------------------------------------------------
I still remember the first time you and I met at a friends house. You walked in and I thought you looked so much different from anyone else. A few minutes after arriving, you told this funny story about a cockroach in a way that only you could. Your eyes lit up, your hands danced in the air while you talked and your body shook with laughter and excitement. That cockroach story did it for me. You had this personality that really drew me to you and I had hoped that I’d run into you again. When we eventually began our relationship, we would talk all night long about everything and anything. I looked forward to knowing everything about you because we had so many things in common. We made sure to make time for one another every day. Each night, you wanted me to give you a new and different reason that I loved you. So every day it became a tradition that I end every nightly conversation with “I love you because”.
I love you because you’re my best friend. I love you because you make me a better person. I love you because you believe in me more than I believe in myself. I love you because you know how to comfort me if I start to turn green with anger. I love you because you’ll never let us walk without holding hands. I love you because you’ll never let us go to bed angry. I love you because talking to you makes a bad day feel O.K. I love you because it makes me laugh when you can’t stop yourself from eating chocolate. I love you because you’re beautiful, hardworking, intelligent and driven. I love you because you’re still humble, modest and reserved. I love you because you accept all my faults and compliment all my strengths. I love you because you still look at me the way you did when we first started dating. I love you because I can always trust you. I love you because I can depend on you to constantly remind me to do things that I may be putting off. I love you because we can laugh at so many things together. I love you because you take of and respect your family. I love you because sometimes you slip and talk to me like I’m one of your girlfriends but I know you do that because you’re so comfortable with me. I love you because you are willing to get your hands dirty with me even though I know you’d rather be knitting. I love you because you are the first to forgive, the first to want to communicate and the last to hold a grudge. I love you because I have so many reasons to love you, to appreciate you and to be thankful for you. I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you, sharing my thoughts with you, caring for you, protecting you, laughing with you, appreciating you, having kids with you and growing old with you.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Day before the wedding & a shout out to The Man
Tuesday morning we decided to have a welcome breakfast to replace the normal rehearsal dinner. I had a couple of reasons for this. One, we were having a luncheon reception for our wedding so I didn't want the rehearsal dinner to be nicer or more formal that that. And two, it was less expensive. Well, scratch that. We were able to offer more food at the same price if we went with breakfast. And because I know my family, as with most Filipinos, they were very happy because it was a breakfast BUFFET.
Ahhh-yahhhhhhh.
Just kidding. I mean, not about the buffet because it was actually quite nice! Of course, I'm bias. Maybe my sister or cousin can give a review ;) The Welcome Breakfast was at the Palm Terrace restaurant located in the Turtle Bay Resort. The food was quite yummy with the selection of fresh tropical fruit, french toast, bacon, omelets ... all the good stuff. We have 29 guests that day because a few were either flying in that day or had already planned to do something else but it was still a pretty good turn out. For many of them, it was the first time they had been at the resort and they really enjoyed the scenery.
I wish we had been better about fluttering from table to table and conversing. But we weren't. The Man is shy and I'm much better in a small group setting than a large one. Oh well, I don't think our families minded ... at least I hope they didn't! We made sure we at least greeted everyone and thanked them for coming. We just weren't able to hold conversations with every person and I kind of regret that. They all chowed down and thanked us for hosting the breakfast so we figured people were happy!
After the breakfast we had our rehearsal. It was interesting because we were doing it without our reverend, hotel coordinator and the ceremony location. The reverend said that he didn't think we would need him due to it being such a small wedding. Plus, because it was on North Shore, he would have to charge us a travel fee of $100, I think. OK - never mind that. And our coordinator wasn't joining us because it would cost us $150.00 to have her one hour. And we were rehearsing outside of the Pavilion and not in it because it would cost $600 to rent it for the rehearsal. Can you imagine? $850.00 just to rehearse for a 15 minute ceremony. Goodness! I asked my two friends to lead us and walk us through the motions and if they thought anything looked unusual or awkward, they could change it.
You would think it would be easy to get people to gather in the lobby when we all just had breakfast together. It was like herding cats, people. My two friends, my sister, my mom and dad, his mom, and his brother ... good lawd, I thought we were never going to start! Someone had to go to the bathroom, then another, then my dad wanted to go to the bathroom ... up in his hotel room! When we finally got it together to do the run through, most of my relatives stuck around to watch us. And as my sister mentioned, many of them were wondering why I was going to have my wedding outside of the Pavilion rather than in it (we didn't take the time to explain so I'm sure it was a pleasant surprise for them when they saw the next day that the wedding was being held inside, after all!) I remember I thought it was really cute how my dad wasn't sure about the process of giving my hand. "Kiss your cheek, shake Jon's hand and then give your hand to him? Or kiss your cheek, give your hand and then shake Jon's hand with my other hand?" Who knew the process was a bit complicated? I was even forgetting to kiss him before he gave my hand ... such small details that can end up making a difference! After several tries, and much input from my friends and the crowd, Jon and my dad figured it out so it didn't look like we were all doing a secret handshake ;)
As for the rest of the day, Jon and I separated - he stayed in the room on the laptop and I went to the pool and chatted with my relatives and then walked around with my sister and cousin. Remember those declarations of love? Well, one of us hadn't written them yet and one of us was very stressed out trying to finish them. So I visited with family and friends. In fact, he needed the entire day so in the evening, I went with some friends for sushi in Hale'iwa (FYI: Bonsai Sushi is pretty good!) to give one of us more time to finish his DOLs. Hee hee, I'm just giving him a hard time now ... I was much nicer at the time because he was seriously stressed out!
No pictures from the breakfast, the rehearsal or with my relatives (umm, cousin, please also send me digital copies of your pics!) But I do have a bad ass picture of the sunrise from our hotel room:
Ahhh-yahhhhhhh.
Just kidding. I mean, not about the buffet because it was actually quite nice! Of course, I'm bias. Maybe my sister or cousin can give a review ;) The Welcome Breakfast was at the Palm Terrace restaurant located in the Turtle Bay Resort. The food was quite yummy with the selection of fresh tropical fruit, french toast, bacon, omelets ... all the good stuff. We have 29 guests that day because a few were either flying in that day or had already planned to do something else but it was still a pretty good turn out. For many of them, it was the first time they had been at the resort and they really enjoyed the scenery.
I wish we had been better about fluttering from table to table and conversing. But we weren't. The Man is shy and I'm much better in a small group setting than a large one. Oh well, I don't think our families minded ... at least I hope they didn't! We made sure we at least greeted everyone and thanked them for coming. We just weren't able to hold conversations with every person and I kind of regret that. They all chowed down and thanked us for hosting the breakfast so we figured people were happy!
After the breakfast we had our rehearsal. It was interesting because we were doing it without our reverend, hotel coordinator and the ceremony location. The reverend said that he didn't think we would need him due to it being such a small wedding. Plus, because it was on North Shore, he would have to charge us a travel fee of $100, I think. OK - never mind that. And our coordinator wasn't joining us because it would cost us $150.00 to have her one hour. And we were rehearsing outside of the Pavilion and not in it because it would cost $600 to rent it for the rehearsal. Can you imagine? $850.00 just to rehearse for a 15 minute ceremony. Goodness! I asked my two friends to lead us and walk us through the motions and if they thought anything looked unusual or awkward, they could change it.
You would think it would be easy to get people to gather in the lobby when we all just had breakfast together. It was like herding cats, people. My two friends, my sister, my mom and dad, his mom, and his brother ... good lawd, I thought we were never going to start! Someone had to go to the bathroom, then another, then my dad wanted to go to the bathroom ... up in his hotel room! When we finally got it together to do the run through, most of my relatives stuck around to watch us. And as my sister mentioned, many of them were wondering why I was going to have my wedding outside of the Pavilion rather than in it (we didn't take the time to explain so I'm sure it was a pleasant surprise for them when they saw the next day that the wedding was being held inside, after all!) I remember I thought it was really cute how my dad wasn't sure about the process of giving my hand. "Kiss your cheek, shake Jon's hand and then give your hand to him? Or kiss your cheek, give your hand and then shake Jon's hand with my other hand?" Who knew the process was a bit complicated? I was even forgetting to kiss him before he gave my hand ... such small details that can end up making a difference! After several tries, and much input from my friends and the crowd, Jon and my dad figured it out so it didn't look like we were all doing a secret handshake ;)
As for the rest of the day, Jon and I separated - he stayed in the room on the laptop and I went to the pool and chatted with my relatives and then walked around with my sister and cousin. Remember those declarations of love? Well, one of us hadn't written them yet and one of us was very stressed out trying to finish them. So I visited with family and friends. In fact, he needed the entire day so in the evening, I went with some friends for sushi in Hale'iwa (FYI: Bonsai Sushi is pretty good!) to give one of us more time to finish his DOLs. Hee hee, I'm just giving him a hard time now ... I was much nicer at the time because he was seriously stressed out!
No pictures from the breakfast, the rehearsal or with my relatives (umm, cousin, please also send me digital copies of your pics!) But I do have a bad ass picture of the sunrise from our hotel room:
I think the sun rises were one of the highlights of my days. While The Man was asleep, I would grab the newspaper outside of our hotel door. Then I would make a cup of coffee and sit on our balcony, read the paper and watch the sun rise. I know, I am a 65 year old woman trapped in a 29 year old body. But it was seriously absolute bliss for me!
The Man also did a time lapse thingee of the same sunset. It's beautiful. I only wish we knew how to use our mic so you can hear the waves (we had our camera in a waterproof shell so we could take under water. Unfortunately, it greatly muffled the audio.) So if you've got time to check it out:
No editing capabilities yet ... we're working on it! So you will have to watch this in boring silence. I can't wait until I can edit, add music and do all that fun stuff with our videos!
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OK, I have to also give a shout out to The Man. We were together for 21 days, often times the entire day with no breaks! Why is this significant? We didn't fight the entire time! I know, we've had a few vacations now where we didn't fight, thank goodness, but 21 days is a long time to be together all the time. Miracle of miracles ... no fighting! Sure, I broke down crying several times during our adventure hike (oh, don't you worry, there will be a whole entry on that) but we got along very well on our entire trip. In fact, I think it was our best vacation to date. It probably helped tremendously that we have lived together for a while but it was really awesome. And the whole experience just reignited my big ol' crush on The Man. I actually missed him today while he was at work and I worked from home. Good lor', what am I ... 15?! So big ups to The Man for being one kick ass hubby! Oh, and Cyn, you had asked if anything was different now that we are married and I didn't have an answer for you. I asked The Man and he said that not much has changed. But when we refer to each other as "husband" and "wife", it feels like we're playing around. And he's kind or right ... it does! We are adjusting to the new titles. I've slipped and called him "my boyfriend" a couple of times.
Saturday, May 03, 2008
First two days in Hawaii
We arrived in Honolulu on Sunday, April 13th. That day also happened to be our six year anniversary! Anyway, due to the changes in our airlines, we were not checking into our hotel room at the Turtle Bay Resort as planned. Our new flight included a layover in LAX so we spent most of Sunday traveling. We had appointments all morning on Monday so it would be silly of us to drive to North Shore at night only to come back to Honolulu the very next morning. Instead of driving to where our wedding would take place, we made our way to the Holiday Inn Waikiki.
Here's the thing - I am not above staying at a Holiday Inn. I think I have a few friends who wouldn't step foot into one and I totally understand. But that's not me. I've stayed at many hotels and my only requirement is that it's clean. Hell, the last time I was in Hawaii I stayed in a room that smelled slightly of urine (my over active imagination made me think that frat guys had occupied the room before us and one of them had gotten so drunk that they peed somewhere on the carpet. Kind of gross but whatever.) But you know what? My friend and I just dealt with it because the room was clean and we were hardly in the room except to sleep and shower. Anyway, my point is that while I'm not above staying at places like the Holiday Inn ... it just wasn't part of the original plan. But we adapted because it was the reasonable thing to do.
The Man and I had checked in by 8:00pm. Thank jeebus, it was a very clean room. But unlike all my other vacations in Hawaii, I was not relaxed. Our first appointment on Monday was at 6:00am in Pearl City. Serious. We didn't want to have to leave North Shore on Tuesday so the only way I could fit all our appointments comfortably was to set our wedding license appointment at 6:00am. I had never been to Pearl City so we didn't know how long it would take for us to get there from Waikiki. We set our alarm for 4:30am. The Man, bless his heart, knew this was not the time to futz around and was really good about getting ready on time. I know, it sounds crazy but our internal clocks were still three hours ahead so it wasn't soooo bad. Anyway, this is what our Monday looked like:
6:00am - Appointment with the wedding licensee in Pearl City
9:00am - Appointment with the wedding photographer in Waikiki (he thought it was at 10:00am so we ended up meeting them at 9:30ish.)
11:30am - Hair & make up run through for me/ haircut for The Man
Afternoon - drive to Turtle Bay, check-in
3:00pm - Appointment with Turtle Bay Resort coordinator
We were HELLA busy our first full day. Yes, I wrote HELLA ... because it's true! But the reward was when we finally got to go to our hotel ...
Turtle Bay Resort is beautiful. It is the first four star hotel I've stayed in (I know I sound like a bumpkin but I told you my reasons.) I didn't tell many people but I chose this location from the feedback I received from close friends when I grilled them. I had never stepped foot on the resort but I knew I loved the beauty of the North Shore because I had been there many times. I had asked one friend who had attended a wedding at TBR what she thought. She told me she considered the resort for her own wedding but knew her family would want it to be in Waikiki. But she thought it was very pretty and definitely recommended it. Then I asked another friend who grew up there and he said that, hands down, that is the spot he would pick if and when he ever got married. He said, in his opinion, it was the nicest spot on the island. From those testimonials, and from the pictures I saw on the web, that is how I made my decision.
Another thing that you have to understand is that I just love being in Hawaii. I love it for a many reasons and it's why I go back year after year. For one, people celebrate their brown skin there. One too many cultures look down upon having dark brown skin and, unfortunately, have a society that aspires to be very fair or the lightest shade of brown possible (I know some of y'all have taken Asian American studies and we have talked about how horrible this is!) Hawaii also reminds me a lot of my favorite aspects of the Philippines - lush tropical beauty, friendly atmosphere, and, by physical appearance, I blend in! It was a nice change from many of the other places I've visited and have stuck out like a sore thumb. And just like the Philippines, the hospitality can't be beat (I should mention that The Man and I noticed during this visit just how many Filipinos work in hospitality - there are a lot!) and there is just a different pace - a little slower which is a lot nicer. Of course, what really did me in was the the few years that I danced hula. This made me appreciate the beauty and history of Hawaii because so many hulas and chants are about that - places in Hawaii, the appreciation of nature and the history of its people. My kumu made sure that we studied and understood the importance of each hula and chant and it really made a difference.
When we arrived at TBR, the front desk told us that our room was not yet ready. They apologized and said we could walk around for a little bit and then check back in with them. So The Man and I explored and saw that the resort was simply gorgeous. What I loved about TBR was how the property let the ocean be the main point of attraction. They kept the grounds very simple and clean yet made it look very natural. Here's what I mean:
OK, I included this picture because I'm wearing false lashes from the make up run through? I love false lashes!!!
So beautiful. I was so happy that I could barely contain myself. The Man was very happy because he saw it was the complete opposite of Waikiki which he cannot stand. My boy is a country boy at heart so he was quite pleased with the open space and lack of crowds. We checked in and were pleasantly surprised that we would be staying on the top floor - a guarantee for a beautiful view, I thought. We schlepped our bags to the room and that is when I completely fell in love with the place:
My friends asked the concierge to cover our hotel room with rose petals! They also left chocolate and coconut covered macademia nuts, passion fruit wine and an orchid lei! This wouldn't be the first time that my two close friends showed their fabulousness.
Can you believe this view? As soon as I opened the sliding glass doors, the sound of the waves filled the room.
A couple of minutes later, a bellboy brought up sparkling wine sent by the general manager.
I have never, ever had a room with an ocean view, much less an ocean view like this. Usually, my hotel scenery have been what I called "look left" views - I crane my neck out the window, look left, and in between two skyscrapers, I could see the ocean. And I was quite happy with that view! But this ... this was something else. I read somewhere that when TBR was taken over by it's the present owner, they had done a ton of renovations instead of demolishing and starting over. It was because if they did demolish the hotel, with the current laws, there is no way the state would let them build the new property so close to the water. So instead, they did over $70 million in renovations. And I completely understand. To be this close to the water is amazing. I visited my parents and my sister and both had spectacular views too.
I couldn't stop hugging and kissing The Man because I was so happy. This absolutely was the perfect place for our wedding.
Here's the thing - I am not above staying at a Holiday Inn. I think I have a few friends who wouldn't step foot into one and I totally understand. But that's not me. I've stayed at many hotels and my only requirement is that it's clean. Hell, the last time I was in Hawaii I stayed in a room that smelled slightly of urine (my over active imagination made me think that frat guys had occupied the room before us and one of them had gotten so drunk that they peed somewhere on the carpet. Kind of gross but whatever.) But you know what? My friend and I just dealt with it because the room was clean and we were hardly in the room except to sleep and shower. Anyway, my point is that while I'm not above staying at places like the Holiday Inn ... it just wasn't part of the original plan. But we adapted because it was the reasonable thing to do.
The Man and I had checked in by 8:00pm. Thank jeebus, it was a very clean room. But unlike all my other vacations in Hawaii, I was not relaxed. Our first appointment on Monday was at 6:00am in Pearl City. Serious. We didn't want to have to leave North Shore on Tuesday so the only way I could fit all our appointments comfortably was to set our wedding license appointment at 6:00am. I had never been to Pearl City so we didn't know how long it would take for us to get there from Waikiki. We set our alarm for 4:30am. The Man, bless his heart, knew this was not the time to futz around and was really good about getting ready on time. I know, it sounds crazy but our internal clocks were still three hours ahead so it wasn't soooo bad. Anyway, this is what our Monday looked like:
6:00am - Appointment with the wedding licensee in Pearl City
9:00am - Appointment with the wedding photographer in Waikiki (he thought it was at 10:00am so we ended up meeting them at 9:30ish.)
11:30am - Hair & make up run through for me/ haircut for The Man
Afternoon - drive to Turtle Bay, check-in
3:00pm - Appointment with Turtle Bay Resort coordinator
We were HELLA busy our first full day. Yes, I wrote HELLA ... because it's true! But the reward was when we finally got to go to our hotel ...
Turtle Bay Resort is beautiful. It is the first four star hotel I've stayed in (I know I sound like a bumpkin but I told you my reasons.) I didn't tell many people but I chose this location from the feedback I received from close friends when I grilled them. I had never stepped foot on the resort but I knew I loved the beauty of the North Shore because I had been there many times. I had asked one friend who had attended a wedding at TBR what she thought. She told me she considered the resort for her own wedding but knew her family would want it to be in Waikiki. But she thought it was very pretty and definitely recommended it. Then I asked another friend who grew up there and he said that, hands down, that is the spot he would pick if and when he ever got married. He said, in his opinion, it was the nicest spot on the island. From those testimonials, and from the pictures I saw on the web, that is how I made my decision.
Another thing that you have to understand is that I just love being in Hawaii. I love it for a many reasons and it's why I go back year after year. For one, people celebrate their brown skin there. One too many cultures look down upon having dark brown skin and, unfortunately, have a society that aspires to be very fair or the lightest shade of brown possible (I know some of y'all have taken Asian American studies and we have talked about how horrible this is!) Hawaii also reminds me a lot of my favorite aspects of the Philippines - lush tropical beauty, friendly atmosphere, and, by physical appearance, I blend in! It was a nice change from many of the other places I've visited and have stuck out like a sore thumb. And just like the Philippines, the hospitality can't be beat (I should mention that The Man and I noticed during this visit just how many Filipinos work in hospitality - there are a lot!) and there is just a different pace - a little slower which is a lot nicer. Of course, what really did me in was the the few years that I danced hula. This made me appreciate the beauty and history of Hawaii because so many hulas and chants are about that - places in Hawaii, the appreciation of nature and the history of its people. My kumu made sure that we studied and understood the importance of each hula and chant and it really made a difference.
When we arrived at TBR, the front desk told us that our room was not yet ready. They apologized and said we could walk around for a little bit and then check back in with them. So The Man and I explored and saw that the resort was simply gorgeous. What I loved about TBR was how the property let the ocean be the main point of attraction. They kept the grounds very simple and clean yet made it look very natural. Here's what I mean:
OK, I included this picture because I'm wearing false lashes from the make up run through? I love false lashes!!!
So beautiful. I was so happy that I could barely contain myself. The Man was very happy because he saw it was the complete opposite of Waikiki which he cannot stand. My boy is a country boy at heart so he was quite pleased with the open space and lack of crowds. We checked in and were pleasantly surprised that we would be staying on the top floor - a guarantee for a beautiful view, I thought. We schlepped our bags to the room and that is when I completely fell in love with the place:
My friends asked the concierge to cover our hotel room with rose petals! They also left chocolate and coconut covered macademia nuts, passion fruit wine and an orchid lei! This wouldn't be the first time that my two close friends showed their fabulousness.
Can you believe this view? As soon as I opened the sliding glass doors, the sound of the waves filled the room.
A couple of minutes later, a bellboy brought up sparkling wine sent by the general manager.
I have never, ever had a room with an ocean view, much less an ocean view like this. Usually, my hotel scenery have been what I called "look left" views - I crane my neck out the window, look left, and in between two skyscrapers, I could see the ocean. And I was quite happy with that view! But this ... this was something else. I read somewhere that when TBR was taken over by it's the present owner, they had done a ton of renovations instead of demolishing and starting over. It was because if they did demolish the hotel, with the current laws, there is no way the state would let them build the new property so close to the water. So instead, they did over $70 million in renovations. And I completely understand. To be this close to the water is amazing. I visited my parents and my sister and both had spectacular views too.
I couldn't stop hugging and kissing The Man because I was so happy. This absolutely was the perfect place for our wedding.
Nearly a thousand pictures to sort through ...
and here's one:
I have the post-vacation blues :( Not only did I get to have 16 days in Hawaii, the longest I've stayed of all my trips, but I flippin' got married and had my honeymoon there! What a great vacation for so many reasons. And I definitely want to write all about it just so I can look back and read all the memories.
This was the first time, though, that I had jet lag and am having a hard time adapting to the three hour difference. With that, and having the post-vacation blues, I haven't been in the mood to start writing. Instead, I've taken the past three days to upload lots of pictures onto an online album. Then I went in and deleted the pictures that were almost identical or had people blinking. I'm sure I let some slip through, though. These are all the pictures shot by our photographers. Why didn't you just burn the CDs and mail them to the online album company, you ask? Well, when I tried to burn them, both my computers rejected it, saying I needed a DVD burner. What the heck? Anyway, 72 hours later, all the pictures have finally been uploaded. Seriously, my computer has been on all night and day, uploading the pictures. Thank goodness I can just leave it and go to sleep. I still need to download all the pictures we took before the wedding and our honeymoon.
So I leave you with one picture. And I hope to start writing soon!
PS: A couple of you wondered about the whole "Matt Damon" thing from the slideshow post. In my declaration of love during the ceremony (because they weren't vows but DOL is a bit formal, isn't it?), I had started off by calling The Man my "Filipino Matt Damon." I guess our photographer thought it was a hoot and highlighted it in our slideshow. It really only gets people wondering why it's there in the first place. But I don't mind :)
I have the post-vacation blues :( Not only did I get to have 16 days in Hawaii, the longest I've stayed of all my trips, but I flippin' got married and had my honeymoon there! What a great vacation for so many reasons. And I definitely want to write all about it just so I can look back and read all the memories.
This was the first time, though, that I had jet lag and am having a hard time adapting to the three hour difference. With that, and having the post-vacation blues, I haven't been in the mood to start writing. Instead, I've taken the past three days to upload lots of pictures onto an online album. Then I went in and deleted the pictures that were almost identical or had people blinking. I'm sure I let some slip through, though. These are all the pictures shot by our photographers. Why didn't you just burn the CDs and mail them to the online album company, you ask? Well, when I tried to burn them, both my computers rejected it, saying I needed a DVD burner. What the heck? Anyway, 72 hours later, all the pictures have finally been uploaded. Seriously, my computer has been on all night and day, uploading the pictures. Thank goodness I can just leave it and go to sleep. I still need to download all the pictures we took before the wedding and our honeymoon.
So I leave you with one picture. And I hope to start writing soon!
PS: A couple of you wondered about the whole "Matt Damon" thing from the slideshow post. In my declaration of love during the ceremony (because they weren't vows but DOL is a bit formal, isn't it?), I had started off by calling The Man my "Filipino Matt Damon." I guess our photographer thought it was a hoot and highlighted it in our slideshow. It really only gets people wondering why it's there in the first place. But I don't mind :)
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