Hello BLOG world- I realized today that I had not posted a while.
First big news- I passed test # 7 out of 8 towards my CLU designation-- Hurray!
The bad news is I turned right around and registered for #8- Income Taxation- yeah sounds like a load of fun huh?? Wanna help me study???
I guess there is really nothing else exciting going on in my world right now.
It was a weekend of relaxing- hanging out with some friends. Finally saw Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire at the dollar theater.
For February the weather has been AWESOME - so Trevor and I have been taking advantage of this and getting in some extra long walks and park time. There seem to be a surplus in ducks at the pond in the park- but Trevor loves to chase them and frolik with them.
The parents are in Florida- so they are keeping themselves entertained for a little bit.
It seems that everyone near and around me is pregnant- so any women reading this blog- be careful and take extra precautions if you don't want a baby soon!
Gotta run- take care and keep in touch.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Monday, February 20, 2006
And the award goes to.....
ME!! This morning at our President's Day team meeting and breakfast I was presented with the Salesperson of the year award for 2005. It is complete with a big shiny trophy with my name engraved on it! I was very flattered and honor to receive such an honor.
It was cold cold cold cold cold - well you get the idea- this weekend.
My weekend was pretty boring and dull- I watched the Olympics quite a little bit.
I studied more that I care to admit for my insurance exam or Friday- right now I am in my "flip out" mode- when I feel totally unprepared and scared to take the test. I have until Thursday to reschedule if I don't feel comfortable. I do want to take the test and get it over with as soon as possible.
Other than that - nothing real big- I did a new blind hung for my living (many thanks go out to my Dad for that). I bought a new glass door bookcase for the living (I love how it looks).
All in all a very quiet and uneventful weekend.
It was cold cold cold cold cold - well you get the idea- this weekend.
My weekend was pretty boring and dull- I watched the Olympics quite a little bit.
I studied more that I care to admit for my insurance exam or Friday- right now I am in my "flip out" mode- when I feel totally unprepared and scared to take the test. I have until Thursday to reschedule if I don't feel comfortable. I do want to take the test and get it over with as soon as possible.
Other than that - nothing real big- I did a new blind hung for my living (many thanks go out to my Dad for that). I bought a new glass door bookcase for the living (I love how it looks).
All in all a very quiet and uneventful weekend.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Why I am so tired-
I usually don't pass these things along- but this one caught my attention- since I have been exhausted this week.
WHY AM I SO TIRED???
For a couple years I've been blaming it on lack of sleep, not enough
sunshine, too much pressure from my job, etc.
But now I found out the real reason:
I'm tired because I'm overworked.
Here's why:...The population of this country is 273 million.
140 million are retired.
That leaves 133 million to do the work.
There are 85 million in school.
Which leaves 48 million to do the work.
Of this there are 29 million employed by the federal government.
Leaving 19 million to do the work.
2.8 million are in the armed forces preoccupied with killing Osama Bin
Laden.
Which leaves 16.2 million to do the work.
Take from that total the 14.8 million people who work for state and city
governments.
And that leaves 1.4 million to do the work.
At any given time there are 1! 88,000 people in hospitals.
Leaving 1,212,000 to do the work.
Now, there are 1,211,998 people in prisons.
That leaves just two people to do the work.
You and me.
And there you are sitting on your butt,, at your computer, reading jokes.
WHY AM I SO TIRED???
For a couple years I've been blaming it on lack of sleep, not enough
sunshine, too much pressure from my job, etc.
But now I found out the real reason:
I'm tired because I'm overworked.
Here's why:...The population of this country is 273 million.
140 million are retired.
That leaves 133 million to do the work.
There are 85 million in school.
Which leaves 48 million to do the work.
Of this there are 29 million employed by the federal government.
Leaving 19 million to do the work.
2.8 million are in the armed forces preoccupied with killing Osama Bin
Laden.
Which leaves 16.2 million to do the work.
Take from that total the 14.8 million people who work for state and city
governments.
And that leaves 1.4 million to do the work.
At any given time there are 1! 88,000 people in hospitals.
Leaving 1,212,000 to do the work.
Now, there are 1,211,998 people in prisons.
That leaves just two people to do the work.
You and me.
And there you are sitting on your butt,, at your computer, reading jokes.
I am just so glad that it is Thursday. My friend Ray & I are going to to one of our favorite watering holes to play trivia and have a few drinks- I just hope that we do better than last week.
Have a great night all.
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Happy Valentines Day-
A big Valentines hello to all my BLOG readers-
I have attached a picture a co-worker snapped of me at the office yesterday (cheese!) and then a picture of mom, dad, and nephew Devan at Saturday's dinner to celebrate the folks' 40th wedding anniversary. A nice time was had by all.
It has been a very very busy couple of days with work - lots of extra meetings downtown and here in Dublin.
Monday, February 06, 2006
Steelers / Transamerica
First of all- Go Steelers!!! What a great game- of course the fact that I was with good friends at a bar with dollar beers made it a little better! I found out that I have yet a 2nd Steelers connection- a good family friend (an older gentleman) grew up in Pittsburgh and knows the family that owns the team. Who knew? Sorry about your Seahawks Paul- I truly could care less about NFL football- but I like to root for the hometown kid, so to speak.
I also went to see Transamerica on Sunday after church. I may get some slack from this comment, but I enjoyed this movie so much more that Brokeback Mtn. I thought Felicity Huffman was AWESOME. It really made me think more about loving and appreciating who we are. There are so many of us in the world that try to change who we are, hide who we are, and otherwise dodge the truth. I walked away from the movie with a smile- I do reccomend.
Otherwise it was a quiet weekend. Winter returned with much colder temperatures and snow- so I returned to my hibernation mode.
Here's to another week.
I also went to see Transamerica on Sunday after church. I may get some slack from this comment, but I enjoyed this movie so much more that Brokeback Mtn. I thought Felicity Huffman was AWESOME. It really made me think more about loving and appreciating who we are. There are so many of us in the world that try to change who we are, hide who we are, and otherwise dodge the truth. I walked away from the movie with a smile- I do reccomend.
Otherwise it was a quiet weekend. Winter returned with much colder temperatures and snow- so I returned to my hibernation mode.
Here's to another week.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Happy Weekend-
It's the weekend!!!! Hurray!
I am really excited to see the movie Transamerica this weekend- it looks really good. It is also Super Bowl weekend- I am really excited for Big Ben the quarterback from Pittsburgh.
I actually know his Mom and Dad from my days in Findlay. So I'm cheering for Pittsburgh- go Steelers.
Gotta run for now- Have a great weekend.
I am really excited to see the movie Transamerica this weekend- it looks really good. It is also Super Bowl weekend- I am really excited for Big Ben the quarterback from Pittsburgh.
I actually know his Mom and Dad from my days in Findlay. So I'm cheering for Pittsburgh- go Steelers.
Gotta run for now- Have a great weekend.
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
Your Life Is Boring When.......
You get exctited when you junk mail in your email in box....
Going to the gym is an exciting Friday night....
Balancing your checkbook is something you do on a daily basis....
You'd rather go to bed than go out to a bar....
When you're in a chat room and the only people instant messaging you are the advertising robots trying to sell herbal enhancements or internet porn....
OK- maybe my life isnt' that boring- but it has been very mellow right now-- which I guess is a good thing. Winter is supposed to be for hibernation right?
Going to the gym is an exciting Friday night....
Balancing your checkbook is something you do on a daily basis....
You'd rather go to bed than go out to a bar....
When you're in a chat room and the only people instant messaging you are the advertising robots trying to sell herbal enhancements or internet porn....
OK- maybe my life isnt' that boring- but it has been very mellow right now-- which I guess is a good thing. Winter is supposed to be for hibernation right?
Monday, January 30, 2006
Put a Cork in it!!!! Literally.
The quiet life continues- which is a good thing for me. Went to dinner with friends Aaron & Ray at Don Pablos Friday night and had a wonderul Mango Margarita.. I do reccomend it. Saturday was a day of grocery shopping, errands, laundry, bill paying, etc.
The highlight of the weekend was wine bottling with my friend Helene and buddy Spencer. Helene had started a batch of wine (6 gallons or 30 bottles) back in the fall at a winery here in Columbus. Once the wine is ready you are able to host a wine bottling party at the winery. The three of us sanitized the bottles, filled them, corked them, and then made labels. During the process there was abundent wine sampling going one. It was great fun to be had by all.
I can't wait to tap into my bottle of Apricot Peach Chardonnay- yummy!
Afterwards Helene and I met buddy Laura at The Happy Greek in the Shorth North. The food was great- after Helene and I almost took out the hostess- ugh.
Laura stayed over Saturday night and we just lounged and read the paper with coffee before lunch and some shopping at Kohl's (great bargains- wohoo).
All else is quiet in Ohio- enjoy the pictures- OK this PC won't load the pictures.
The highlight of the weekend was wine bottling with my friend Helene and buddy Spencer. Helene had started a batch of wine (6 gallons or 30 bottles) back in the fall at a winery here in Columbus. Once the wine is ready you are able to host a wine bottling party at the winery. The three of us sanitized the bottles, filled them, corked them, and then made labels. During the process there was abundent wine sampling going one. It was great fun to be had by all.
I can't wait to tap into my bottle of Apricot Peach Chardonnay- yummy!
Afterwards Helene and I met buddy Laura at The Happy Greek in the Shorth North. The food was great- after Helene and I almost took out the hostess- ugh.
Laura stayed over Saturday night and we just lounged and read the paper with coffee before lunch and some shopping at Kohl's (great bargains- wohoo).
All else is quiet in Ohio- enjoy the pictures- OK this PC won't load the pictures.
Friday, January 27, 2006
What a long week-
On Monday while eating breakfast I had the Today Show on TV and they were featuring a story on the most depressing day of the year, January 23rd. Some scientist somewhere had nothing else better to do than run some regression analysis and logarithm and figure out numerically that based on hours of sunlight and some other weird factors that last Monday was the most depressing day of the year. Great huh?? In conversations with co-workers, family members, & friends I have decided this must have been the most depressing week of the year. It has been the longest most drug out week of the year. Can it just freaking end????? PLEASE!!!!!!!
In any regards TGIF.
Last night I had a delightful evening- had dinner and a few drinks with an old Dispatch co-worker Ashley. She is such a wonderful person that for one reason or another I had just simply lost touch with. We discussed over martinis the fear of turning 30 (I just turned and she has about 18 months to go), being single, where do you meet a potential mate, why men are freaks of nature, and further more had a wonderful evening. It was so nice & I look forward to spending more time with her again soon.
Driving home- I thought of the many many people that have came and gone from my life. Co-workers, friends, acquaintances, etc-- and how for a short period of time our paths intersected (perhaps every day) and we truly enjoyed each other's company. The the paths of our lives took different turns and the bond was lost and communication ended. There were no hard feelings & if I ran into them today at the mall or grocery store I would run up to them and be eager to catch up. It just seems such a shame that we loose touch so quickly- I want to try to be more pro-active on keeping in touch with people that are important to me.
This weekend proves to be fun- good friend Laura is coming down for a visit. I think we will see a movie, have a drink or two, dinner on the town, and of course good conversation and coffee.
I do need to start looking for a new suit for my big trip to Los Angeles in March. I am thinking of a classic black suit. I am also looking at paint colors as I am going to repaint the first floor of my condo (hard to believe I have lived there almost 6 years - YIKES).
Whatever you do- have a safe and wonderful weekend.
In any regards TGIF.
Last night I had a delightful evening- had dinner and a few drinks with an old Dispatch co-worker Ashley. She is such a wonderful person that for one reason or another I had just simply lost touch with. We discussed over martinis the fear of turning 30 (I just turned and she has about 18 months to go), being single, where do you meet a potential mate, why men are freaks of nature, and further more had a wonderful evening. It was so nice & I look forward to spending more time with her again soon.
Driving home- I thought of the many many people that have came and gone from my life. Co-workers, friends, acquaintances, etc-- and how for a short period of time our paths intersected (perhaps every day) and we truly enjoyed each other's company. The the paths of our lives took different turns and the bond was lost and communication ended. There were no hard feelings & if I ran into them today at the mall or grocery store I would run up to them and be eager to catch up. It just seems such a shame that we loose touch so quickly- I want to try to be more pro-active on keeping in touch with people that are important to me.
This weekend proves to be fun- good friend Laura is coming down for a visit. I think we will see a movie, have a drink or two, dinner on the town, and of course good conversation and coffee.
I do need to start looking for a new suit for my big trip to Los Angeles in March. I am thinking of a classic black suit. I am also looking at paint colors as I am going to repaint the first floor of my condo (hard to believe I have lived there almost 6 years - YIKES).
Whatever you do- have a safe and wonderful weekend.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Uneventful = Peace & Quiet-
I admit it- I had a very boring weeked- but I loved every minute of it.
Friday evening consisted of an oil change for the jeep followed by a cardio workout at the gym and then in bed by 11:30pm. I made the parental pilgrimage to Hardin County on Saturday. The highlight was taking a spin in Dad's new 2006 Jeep - which by the way is a nice set of wheels. My nephew Devan has a cold - so was not quite his usual self - but he was really cute none the less. Saturday evening I drove home and had a wild Saturday evening (well I went to the grocery, folded laundry, and went to bed- is that considered wild???). Sunday was church, gym, studying for my insurance courses, dinner and a few drinks with my friend Ray and then Desperate Housewives. I am loving the wicked twist that the writers are doing with Brie's character and Betty Applewhite- AWESOME!!!
Even though I really did nothing exciting I am very happy.
I just want to live my life and escape all possible drama.
I hope you all have a wonderful week.
Friday evening consisted of an oil change for the jeep followed by a cardio workout at the gym and then in bed by 11:30pm. I made the parental pilgrimage to Hardin County on Saturday. The highlight was taking a spin in Dad's new 2006 Jeep - which by the way is a nice set of wheels. My nephew Devan has a cold - so was not quite his usual self - but he was really cute none the less. Saturday evening I drove home and had a wild Saturday evening (well I went to the grocery, folded laundry, and went to bed- is that considered wild???). Sunday was church, gym, studying for my insurance courses, dinner and a few drinks with my friend Ray and then Desperate Housewives. I am loving the wicked twist that the writers are doing with Brie's character and Betty Applewhite- AWESOME!!!
Even though I really did nothing exciting I am very happy.
I just want to live my life and escape all possible drama.
I hope you all have a wonderful week.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Observation on being connected-
Last night I stopped by Cup of Joe for a warm shot of caffine before heading to the church for a meeting. It also gave me about 30 minutes to study for my insurance course that I am taking. I was stopping by because I didn't have time to run home and then be at the church in time for the meeting and caffine was needed to stay awake.
While I was there I noticed something that I had seen many times before - but never really contemplated. The conclusion I came to is that everyone desires to be connected and fears being alone. The coffee shop was packed, mostly by singles set up at their lap top or with a book. The laptop surfers were generally instant messaging and the book readers were often interrupted by a cell phone call or a text message. It seems that we all were there wanting to be with someone - to not be alone & bond with others.
I contemplated this thought with my recent dating experiences of being told "I want a relationship" and "I will call you tomorrow" or "I'll see you soon." and once again I am struggling to make sense of why if we all desire to be friends, family, or even better someone we love.... than why do we build walls around ourselves???
OK - enough deep thoughts- back to work... unless my instant messager service or cell phone rings.
While I was there I noticed something that I had seen many times before - but never really contemplated. The conclusion I came to is that everyone desires to be connected and fears being alone. The coffee shop was packed, mostly by singles set up at their lap top or with a book. The laptop surfers were generally instant messaging and the book readers were often interrupted by a cell phone call or a text message. It seems that we all were there wanting to be with someone - to not be alone & bond with others.
I contemplated this thought with my recent dating experiences of being told "I want a relationship" and "I will call you tomorrow" or "I'll see you soon." and once again I am struggling to make sense of why if we all desire to be friends, family, or even better someone we love.... than why do we build walls around ourselves???
OK - enough deep thoughts- back to work... unless my instant messager service or cell phone rings.
Monday, January 16, 2006
All Quiet in Ohio-
A nice quiet weekend here in Ohio- ahh Thank God.
I did get to see Brokeback Mountain on Friday night. First of all the new Drexel Gateway theater- a very very nice place. We got leather reclining and rocking seats-- it made my butt happy!!!
The scenery in the movie was breathtaking- I loved the mountain and the rivers-- it was breathtaking! What captivated me the most was the strength of the love between the men. Their romance lasted 20 years and Jack committed to making drives back and forth between TX and WY -- that takes an incredible love and committment. Here I am not even able to get someone to return my phone calls or emails. When I stop and think about it- that is the type of love I want- the type of love that will drive accross the country, that will put the rest of the world on hold because I am an important part of their life, a love that will cause you to question everything that you ever knew, and love that will last a life.... ( Ok - enough sappiness for this posting).
Otherwise the weekend was uneventful- I met Laura and her Dad at Schmidt's Sausage Haus in German Village Saturday night. We had a great time- even though we were done with the German Buffet and stuffed with Sauerkraut before the oompah band got started (no kidding they have a live accordian player on weekends-- if you are in town I'll take you over).
I did get to see Brokeback Mountain on Friday night. First of all the new Drexel Gateway theater- a very very nice place. We got leather reclining and rocking seats-- it made my butt happy!!!
The scenery in the movie was breathtaking- I loved the mountain and the rivers-- it was breathtaking! What captivated me the most was the strength of the love between the men. Their romance lasted 20 years and Jack committed to making drives back and forth between TX and WY -- that takes an incredible love and committment. Here I am not even able to get someone to return my phone calls or emails. When I stop and think about it- that is the type of love I want- the type of love that will drive accross the country, that will put the rest of the world on hold because I am an important part of their life, a love that will cause you to question everything that you ever knew, and love that will last a life.... ( Ok - enough sappiness for this posting).
Otherwise the weekend was uneventful- I met Laura and her Dad at Schmidt's Sausage Haus in German Village Saturday night. We had a great time- even though we were done with the German Buffet and stuffed with Sauerkraut before the oompah band got started (no kidding they have a live accordian player on weekends-- if you are in town I'll take you over).
Friday, January 13, 2006
TGIF-
Another week has come and gone- Yikes!
I keep thinking that time will slow down- but it doesn't so I guess I should just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Things are really starting to fall in place for me career and money-wise. With the comission check I will receive Wednesday I will finally be in a really good position financially and extremely thankful for that. I have had some conversations with leaders & other influential folks at Nationwide and I truly feel that perhaps my time is coming near- that good things are just around the corner. I pray that things will be good in 2006.
I am going to see the movie Brokeback Mtn. tonite. I think it looks incredible and the hype about the movie is EVERYWHERE. Hopefully I will enjoy it as much as I think I will- my thoughts to follow on Monday.
Other than that it appears to be a pretty mellow weekend.
I am trying to loose a few holiday pounds and get fit for my big trip to LA in March. I have begun loading up on proteins and cutting down on the carbs. I have been eating eggs and turkey bacon in the AM - and don't feel as hungry early in the day-- so that is a good thing.
Have a great weekend.
I keep thinking that time will slow down- but it doesn't so I guess I should just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Things are really starting to fall in place for me career and money-wise. With the comission check I will receive Wednesday I will finally be in a really good position financially and extremely thankful for that. I have had some conversations with leaders & other influential folks at Nationwide and I truly feel that perhaps my time is coming near- that good things are just around the corner. I pray that things will be good in 2006.
I am going to see the movie Brokeback Mtn. tonite. I think it looks incredible and the hype about the movie is EVERYWHERE. Hopefully I will enjoy it as much as I think I will- my thoughts to follow on Monday.
Other than that it appears to be a pretty mellow weekend.
I am trying to loose a few holiday pounds and get fit for my big trip to LA in March. I have begun loading up on proteins and cutting down on the carbs. I have been eating eggs and turkey bacon in the AM - and don't feel as hungry early in the day-- so that is a good thing.
Have a great weekend.
TGIF-
Another week has come and gone- Yikes!
I keep thinking that time will slow down- but it doesn't so I guess I should just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Things are really starting to fall in place for me career and money-wise. With the comission check I will receive Wednesday I will finally be in a really good position financially and extremely thankful for that. I have had some conversations with leaders & other influential folks at Nationwide and I truly feel that perhaps my time is coming near- that good things are just around the corner. I pray that things will be good in 2006.
I am going to see the movie Brokeback Mtn. tonite. I think it looks incredible and the hype about the movie is EVERYWHERE. Hopefully I will enjoy it as much as I think I will- my thoughts to follow on Monday.
Other than that it appears to be a pretty mellow weekend.
I am trying to loose a few holiday pounds and get fit for my big trip to LA in March. I have begun loading up on proteins and cutting down on the carbs. I have been eating eggs and turkey bacon in the AM - and don't feel as hungry early in the day-- so that is a good thing.
Have a great weekend.
I keep thinking that time will slow down- but it doesn't so I guess I should just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Things are really starting to fall in place for me career and money-wise. With the comission check I will receive Wednesday I will finally be in a really good position financially and extremely thankful for that. I have had some conversations with leaders & other influential folks at Nationwide and I truly feel that perhaps my time is coming near- that good things are just around the corner. I pray that things will be good in 2006.
I am going to see the movie Brokeback Mtn. tonite. I think it looks incredible and the hype about the movie is EVERYWHERE. Hopefully I will enjoy it as much as I think I will- my thoughts to follow on Monday.
Other than that it appears to be a pretty mellow weekend.
I am trying to loose a few holiday pounds and get fit for my big trip to LA in March. I have begun loading up on proteins and cutting down on the carbs. I have been eating eggs and turkey bacon in the AM - and don't feel as hungry early in the day-- so that is a good thing.
Have a great weekend.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Thank you for being a friend(s)....
Big big thanks go out to all of you who have written, called, stopped by, commented on the Blog and supported me in any way since my last posting. I must first state I AM OK-- a little upset with the world sometimes- but OK none the less.
After posting the Blog on Friday I did have a great weekend. I hung out with some great friends and my eyes were once again opened to what a blessing true friends are. Big thanks go out to Ray, Helene, Gordon, and Alan for being there this weekend- you guys ROCK!
Ray and I were sharing a few beers on Friday night and having some conversation. I kind of had a revelation-- or was it just the beer making the connections in the brain.. anyways... I realized that I need to take the high road in situations. Be the true gentleman and try to stick to the proper rules of etiquette. This weekend I did that and made a few phone calls and sent some emails. Instead of hiding behind layers on insecurity and fear I spoke what was on mind - and conveyed what I was feeling... It felt great and I think it put the others at ease too. I intend to make this my New Year's Resolution for 2006- be the gentleman and be myself.
Another highlight of the weekend was viewing the movie The Family Stone- very touching. I enjoy movies where I laugh out loud and then tear up all within 25 minutes. I reccomend the film to anyone looking for quality entertainment.
Ok- back to work - Thanks for being awesome friends and blog buddies - much love to you all.
After posting the Blog on Friday I did have a great weekend. I hung out with some great friends and my eyes were once again opened to what a blessing true friends are. Big thanks go out to Ray, Helene, Gordon, and Alan for being there this weekend- you guys ROCK!
Ray and I were sharing a few beers on Friday night and having some conversation. I kind of had a revelation-- or was it just the beer making the connections in the brain.. anyways... I realized that I need to take the high road in situations. Be the true gentleman and try to stick to the proper rules of etiquette. This weekend I did that and made a few phone calls and sent some emails. Instead of hiding behind layers on insecurity and fear I spoke what was on mind - and conveyed what I was feeling... It felt great and I think it put the others at ease too. I intend to make this my New Year's Resolution for 2006- be the gentleman and be myself.
Another highlight of the weekend was viewing the movie The Family Stone- very touching. I enjoy movies where I laugh out loud and then tear up all within 25 minutes. I reccomend the film to anyone looking for quality entertainment.
Ok- back to work - Thanks for being awesome friends and blog buddies - much love to you all.
Friday, January 06, 2006
What's up with that?
This is a crazy world that we live in- this may sound like an obvious statement but after 30 laps around the sun (thanks for reminding me of that analogy Megan) I have 100% confirmed this.
I guess I am just frustrated with the world-- and my life. I am no where close to where I thought I would be at 30 years old. I do have so many wonderful blessings and friends that are too many to count- but I still feel like there is alot missing. Of course this could be due to the frame of thought that I entered into while listening to Kelly Clarkson at the gym last night- her song "Because of You" made me start to think about broken relationships and how they have affected me personally. While still on the tredmill and still listening to Kelly I further compounded that by thinking that so many people probably feel the same way that I do and have "crap" (love the terminology???) that they are still carrying on their shoulders from previous broken relationships- and when 2 people with equal amounts of "crap" get together- you have one ugly DISFUNCTIONAL mess. OK- so why on a Friday is Andrew rambling on about this?? Simply put I keep meeting the most disfunctional and screwed up people- it is like I am running a Betty Ford Clinic to heal men of disfunctionality--- and I have no training to do this and I simply am bad at helping them. Needlesss to say - please tell all your friends neighbors and common folk on the street that if they need professional help to look in the phone book for a shrink and to leave me alone.
I think I need a quiet weekend at home- just me and the dog- my couch and a warm blanket... perhaps a mug of cocoa. Lock the door and close up the clinic for crazy folks.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
I guess I am just frustrated with the world-- and my life. I am no where close to where I thought I would be at 30 years old. I do have so many wonderful blessings and friends that are too many to count- but I still feel like there is alot missing. Of course this could be due to the frame of thought that I entered into while listening to Kelly Clarkson at the gym last night- her song "Because of You" made me start to think about broken relationships and how they have affected me personally. While still on the tredmill and still listening to Kelly I further compounded that by thinking that so many people probably feel the same way that I do and have "crap" (love the terminology???) that they are still carrying on their shoulders from previous broken relationships- and when 2 people with equal amounts of "crap" get together- you have one ugly DISFUNCTIONAL mess. OK- so why on a Friday is Andrew rambling on about this?? Simply put I keep meeting the most disfunctional and screwed up people- it is like I am running a Betty Ford Clinic to heal men of disfunctionality--- and I have no training to do this and I simply am bad at helping them. Needlesss to say - please tell all your friends neighbors and common folk on the street that if they need professional help to look in the phone book for a shrink and to leave me alone.
I think I need a quiet weekend at home- just me and the dog- my couch and a warm blanket... perhaps a mug of cocoa. Lock the door and close up the clinic for crazy folks.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
New Year- New Adventures-
Welcome 2006!!!! Bring on the new adventures that will be sure to hit.
I apologize for my 2 week Blogging absence- my home PC is an antique and will not allow me to post on my blog or comment on other blogs. 2006 will see a new home PC for sure.
Highlights of the holiday season-
1) Christmas with my 2 year of nephew Devan (what a cutie).
2) Relaxation - and the parents hot tub (need I say more).
3) Turning 30-- yup I'm officially OLD.
4) Quality time with Ferguson --
5) The Producers (what a great movie).
6) Spending the day with my friend Wendy Stinebaugh and working together on our New Years Resolutions.
7) Having 11 days off from work!
I was ready to take down all the Christmas stuff and put 2005 to bed. While it was not a bad year- it just didn't turn out the way I planned. There were high points and low points. I thought I had fallen in love - only to be dumped. I celebrated a friends wedding and have since supported her during her chemotherapy treatments. So needless to say 2005 was a year of contrasts. I have really high hopes for 2006.
I look forward to making wonderful memories with friends and family in the coming year.
I apologize for my 2 week Blogging absence- my home PC is an antique and will not allow me to post on my blog or comment on other blogs. 2006 will see a new home PC for sure.
Highlights of the holiday season-
1) Christmas with my 2 year of nephew Devan (what a cutie).
2) Relaxation - and the parents hot tub (need I say more).
3) Turning 30-- yup I'm officially OLD.
4) Quality time with Ferguson --
5) The Producers (what a great movie).
6) Spending the day with my friend Wendy Stinebaugh and working together on our New Years Resolutions.
7) Having 11 days off from work!
I was ready to take down all the Christmas stuff and put 2005 to bed. While it was not a bad year- it just didn't turn out the way I planned. There were high points and low points. I thought I had fallen in love - only to be dumped. I celebrated a friends wedding and have since supported her during her chemotherapy treatments. So needless to say 2005 was a year of contrasts. I have really high hopes for 2006.
I look forward to making wonderful memories with friends and family in the coming year.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Holiday Tips and Humor
Every holiday I enjoy attending the Mary Ann Brandt Chritmas Show- it has become a holiday tradition. This year she had posting some holiday tips on her web site (www.maryannbrandt.com) . I wanted you to have these before the holidays officially begin.
For your reference- Mary Ann is a very rich elite socialite and only has the most expensive taste.
Holiday Party Do's and Dont's-
Chips — there is no place for any chip-type-thing in upper middle class/high society. This includes Potato Chips, Combos, Sun Chips and especially Doritos.
BYOB — “Bring your own beer/bottle” is for those on public assistance or 20-year-old college students whose parents aren’t multi-millionaires. To ask a guest to bring anything to a cocktail party, let alone the party, is simply not done. There is a time and place for “bringing your own.” A communal potluck or any event where you are simply providing the space for friends to gather is acceptable for BYOB, but not here.
Acceptable: “Why don’t we just watch the game at Mary Ann’s house”“Sure, come on over -- I’ll make chili!” “Then I’ll bring the beer” “Kewl!”
Unacceptable: “Are you coming to my pre-game party Saturday? Good, just bring a 12-pack or whatever you want to drink”
Television — Keep the TV off, unless you’ve invited friends for “Cocktails and the US Figure Skating Championships”.
Plastic cups — Top-shelf liquor deserves glass. Plastic cups are for those on public assistance or 20-year-old college students whose parents aren’t multi-millionaires.
Cocktail Weenies — those little white trash weenies, smothered in white trash barbecue sauce and baked in your white trash crock pot for hours until they’re tough as shoe leather and impossible to spear with the white trash toothpicks you’ve provided – toothpicks that have been fingered by every nasty white trash guest you’ve invited – even the white trash guests who have been having sex in the broom closet.
AFTER-THE-FAMILY-CHRISTMAS-MELTDOWN
God love ‘em, but a holiday weekend with the family is nerve splitting. After you’ve unloaded the Land Rover and watered the brittle tree, build a fire, put on your nightgown, fill a tall glass with lots of ice (not a cocktail glass, more like a Wendy’s Biggie cup), and fill it to the rim with enough Jack Daniels to wash down a Vicodin.
WRAPPING PRESENTS
I have mine wrapped professionally, but I realize most of you tackle the project with your own tape and scissors. Two bottles of Veuve Cliquot will get you through the evening. Add two bottles for each friend that comes calling. Buy gift bags with pretty tissue, because after the second bottle of Veuve, you’ll want to switch to liquor, and you’ll not want to fiddle with the tape anymore.
For your reference- Mary Ann is a very rich elite socialite and only has the most expensive taste.
Holiday Party Do's and Dont's-
Chips — there is no place for any chip-type-thing in upper middle class/high society. This includes Potato Chips, Combos, Sun Chips and especially Doritos.
BYOB — “Bring your own beer/bottle” is for those on public assistance or 20-year-old college students whose parents aren’t multi-millionaires. To ask a guest to bring anything to a cocktail party, let alone the party, is simply not done. There is a time and place for “bringing your own.” A communal potluck or any event where you are simply providing the space for friends to gather is acceptable for BYOB, but not here.
Acceptable: “Why don’t we just watch the game at Mary Ann’s house”“Sure, come on over -- I’ll make chili!” “Then I’ll bring the beer” “Kewl!”
Unacceptable: “Are you coming to my pre-game party Saturday? Good, just bring a 12-pack or whatever you want to drink”
Television — Keep the TV off, unless you’ve invited friends for “Cocktails and the US Figure Skating Championships”.
Plastic cups — Top-shelf liquor deserves glass. Plastic cups are for those on public assistance or 20-year-old college students whose parents aren’t multi-millionaires.
Cocktail Weenies — those little white trash weenies, smothered in white trash barbecue sauce and baked in your white trash crock pot for hours until they’re tough as shoe leather and impossible to spear with the white trash toothpicks you’ve provided – toothpicks that have been fingered by every nasty white trash guest you’ve invited – even the white trash guests who have been having sex in the broom closet.
AFTER-THE-FAMILY-CHRISTMAS-MELTDOWN
God love ‘em, but a holiday weekend with the family is nerve splitting. After you’ve unloaded the Land Rover and watered the brittle tree, build a fire, put on your nightgown, fill a tall glass with lots of ice (not a cocktail glass, more like a Wendy’s Biggie cup), and fill it to the rim with enough Jack Daniels to wash down a Vicodin.
WRAPPING PRESENTS
I have mine wrapped professionally, but I realize most of you tackle the project with your own tape and scissors. Two bottles of Veuve Cliquot will get you through the evening. Add two bottles for each friend that comes calling. Buy gift bags with pretty tissue, because after the second bottle of Veuve, you’ll want to switch to liquor, and you’ll not want to fiddle with the tape anymore.
Monday, December 19, 2005
Blog Backlog-
First of all- I know I know I know- My Blog has been neglected and your are left wondering, "What's up with Andrew???" Alas- it is time to update.
I passed my CLU exam- I now have 6 out of 8 completed for this insurance designation. You might ask what will this do for him (I often ask the same thing)... it basically certifies that I know insurance and financial planning very very well. Many jobs in the insurance and financial planning industry will be opened to me with the completion of this designation.
Needless to say my life was pretty tied up in studying studying and more studying for this lovely test.
I have managed to have some holiday fun here and there too. The shopping is done & mostly wrapped. The tree is up and decorated (I am attaching a photo for your viewing pleasure)- and all the rest of the holiday "stuff" is under way. I really have a pretty light and stress free week ahead - Thank God- I work until mid-day Thursday and then I am off until Tuesday January 3rd. This is the longest non-medical time period off of work in like 6 years. I don't have many plans- other than family holiday fun, visiting with Laura (Welcome home from Bangledesh), and all the other usual holiday fun. My buddies Dan and Ray both have the entire week off too-- I'm sure we'll find some trouble to get into!
I hope everyone is doing well - Merry Christmas.
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