Faith, Hope and Love from Texas

Where is my protective bubble?

2009-08-18T12:30:00.003-05:00

So I thought I would use my lunchtime today to write a few things to the few folks out there checking out the blog...just an update is all.

So, Florida was amazing. We had a great time there. The beaches were beautiful, weather was nice, and the water was the clearest Ive ever seen it. I actually played in the ocean for several hours over many days, and Im not too fond of sealife, but it was that pretty. I really enjoyed my time. We left Friday and drove home with Matt, Ashley, Reef, and Sam in the Hummer (yes, Daniel and I were in there too!) Reef got a bed on top of the suitcases so she was sitting higher (and less cramed) than all of us.

Saturday I was on my way to pick up Louis and when I stepped off the porch, smack, I came down on the outside of my left ankle. Well, the pain was incredible. I thought I would be sick right there. So Im crying on the front step and trying to call Daniel from my cell. He actually heard my crying and ran out.

This is the mushy part - He sat down next to me and held me and asked if I was ok and what he could do. Instead of talking to him, I puked. Yep, right in the front lawn. Daniel held me and wiped my hair off my face and told me it was ok. I kept crying and then I told him sorry I puked on the lawn. LOL.

Ok mushy part over - So Daniel carried me inside and then propped my ankle up, got me ice and a sprite and brought all my stuff back inside. He took good care of me. =)

Monday, I went to the doc. My ankle was still really swollen, painful to walk on, of course bruised, and my toes were kinda swelling. So, doc x-ray'd and its not broken (which I was pretty sure of) but I did achieve 3 different sprains at once. As the doc is telling me that the first tendon has a severe sprain, second is moderate, and third is not so bad - he touches my ankle on the moderate one and I burst out in tears. And not like weep weep, Im talking like he stabbed me pain. So then hes like "OMG" cause Im crying. Well, I got ahold of myself much more quickly than when Daniel came outside.

Doc put me in this miniboot. He said the big boot would work, but would be too heavy based on the sprain etc (not to mention its 100 degrees in TX). He told me to use crutches (which my dad so graciously supplied me with back in 2005) and stay off it. Then, when it starts to get better, I can dismantle the miniboot and start walking. Woot.

After work, I sat in the big recliner and Daniel brought me pillows, ice, water, my laptop, my puzzle book, and pretty much everything I wanted when I asked. Did I mention that he had a really busy day? So instead of resting, he took care of me. =) Im really lucky. He didnt complain once.

I hate being reliant on other people, but Daniel is a trooper. He let me borrow his backpack to keep stuff in (way easier than a purse when on crutches) and brought me food etc. He is so good to me. Can I just say how much I love him! =D

So, only a few days on the crutches and Ill be back in the saddle. Good thing I have a fridge in my office and folks nearby who are ready to help. I love working here. =)

Perfect Day

2009-08-11T17:31:00.004-05:00

Today was just a great day. Matt, Daniel, Ashley and I all went to the beach this morning and spent a good deal of the day there. We stopped for sandwiches at Subway and packed up the coolers. Matt and Ashley stopped at Alvin's Island for rafts and I got a visor and chair.

The beach was amazing today. It was crystal clear and amazingly sunny and colorful. The water was this fabulous aqua/jadeite color along the shore. Past the sandbar, the water had a great dark blue color. The waves were slowly crashing as the tide let out. I have been to the beach twice since I was a kid (save the recent past). In those times, I can remember getting in the ocean to my knees or just running in and out. I cant remember playing in the ocean since I was a kid. I remember being at the beach and LOVING the ocean and sand. I remember being scared of the ocean when I was little, but I also remember loving jumping waves.

Today, I played in the ocean for a few hours! It was so much fun. I actually cant remember a time when I spent so much time in the ocean and had such a great time. I sat on the side of the beach right in the waves and let the sand and water wash me out. It was great! I bobbed in the waves and just listened to the surf.

So as Im having all this fun in the water, I actually took the time to say to myself "Remember this day. This is a perfect day. The ocean water is clear and the perfect temperature. The sand is bright white and so soft. The sun is bright and the breeze is cool. You are surrounded by people that love you." It was amazing to stop and realize that today was everything I wanted it to be. I love being on the beach. Id rather be on the beach than anywhere else. If I could find a job where I could work and live near the beach, Id jump. I sat back on the side of the beach where the water could wash up over my legs and just thinking about if I could be anywhere and doing anything right now, would it be this? Yep.

I then thought about how I was really enjoying the moment because Ive worked so hard this year. The team and I have been through alot in the last 8 months and we've accomplished alot. Personally, Ive been straight A's in school, AdShuffle, friend stuff, and fallen more in love with Daniel every day (shout out baby!!!) haha.

It was so nice to not be looking at the computer or phone for a while. (I should admit that I was reading Sarah Lacy's "Once Youre Lucky, Twice Your Good". Its about Web 2.0 - Im addicted to Silicon News) So although reading about tech stuff, I didnt have the phone out on email, text or calls. I thought that it was a great reward for alot of hard work. Then, I thought "I wonder how I can bring my team here for a reward?" Im still not sure how I could pull it off, but I wanted to share that fun with them.

Each time I looked back to the umbrella, D was reading or helping Matt with the kite or watching me. Each time I caught his eye though, even if he wasnt looking when I first looked over. It was so cute. He was watching me in the ocean, just in case something happened and I got in trouble. =) I love him. He made sure everyone was safe today. It was awesome to share the perfect day with Daniel and the crew. I love being a part of their family. =)

Tonight, we are going to grill out and then do some mini golf or the driving range (I brought my clubs! and I have super cute shoes!)Im so excited. Its been a great trip. I wouldnt have changed a thing. Thank God for such a perfect day.

Now seems like a good time

2009-08-11T08:02:00.005-05:00

So last time Daniel and I came to the beach, we wanted to take Sam down to the ocean to play. She's done it once before and just loved it!!! So, this morning I got up at 7am, showered, and was ready to go. Daniel....well, its been an hour and he's still in bed. Sorry Sam, doesnt look like we are swimmin this morning. ;)

The trip has been so much fun. We left Friday morning, after not rushing and sleeping more than 2 hours each (or between the two of us, because Daniel didnt sleep at all the night before). We drove all day to Plaqumine, Louisiana where Lauren, Ray, and Fabian showed us a super fun time. I have to say, I did a nice job dancing with the man in the white shirt. haha Lo and Ray have the cutest place. I cant wait to see their new house. Lo's parents house was still being worked on from Gustav last year. Its crazy to see how much damage is still left in that part of the state.

(Daniel just snored - he's asleep in Matt's living room).

So Saturday morning we packed up and headed to P-cola. Nice drive and no problems. Woo hoo! We arrived and had a great evening with Matt and Ashley. Surf burger did us justice, but we were so sleepy afterwards! Sunday morning we went to Hemmingways, which I think is my new fav place on the beach. It was a beautiful atmosphere and pretty good food. Too bad its so expensive.

Monday we went to the beach. Daniel got sunburned. =/ I said "Do you want to stop and get suntan lotion?" "Nope, Ill be fine" 14 hours later...Daniel is still asleep. Poor guy. It really took it out of him. We did get to see a flyover by the Blue Angels (formations and all). It was amazing. The pictures dont do it justice. We also had the Army fly overhead in a chopper.

The water is the most beautiful Ive ever seen it down here. There is no seaweed or jellies. The first time we came to P-cola, they were calling it 'Firewater' because of all the jellies from the storm. In July, there was tons of seaweed. This trip, woot....all clear. Its just beautiful. Im hoping to go back soon and spend all day on the beach. I love it.

We have had an amazing trip thus far and its not even half over. I hope to come back burnt to a crisp (ok, not really...just tan) and ready to get back to the office. Im lucky to have such a great team that they are taking care of business. :)

Ok, so those are some highlights so far.

Without words

2009-07-27T09:41:00.004-05:00

I am normally not one to be without words. Today, however, I cant find words to encompass the emotion, sadness, and anger I feel.

Several of you know that Daniels dad, Dan Dase, passed away Dec 29, 07. In the accident with him was Caleb Hays. Caleb is the nephew of Pat and Joel (great friends of Dan and Dede). Both Dan and Caleb perished in the accident.

I cannot capture in words the feelings that come with that short background. It doesnt do justice to the sadness and loss I feel. Maybe Ill try one day when I can dedicate a lifetime. I keep thinking about the words at Dan's funeral "How do you measure a man?"

Caleb's parents, Jerry and Gretchen, and his brother Noah continued to live in St Louis. They were blessed with baby Nate this year. What a miracle from God.

http://bakersinspringfield.blogspot.com/2009/06/baptism-party-nate-hays.html

Friday, July 24th Nate passed in his sleep. Six months old and he was taken by SIDS. There are just no words to even try to express or wrap thoughts around this. I cannot imagine the wretched pain that family is feeling. Im praying for any moment of comfort for them. Anything.

I think once everything settles in a bit more Ill be able to write about it. Its like reliving things all over again.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/stltoday/obituary.aspx?n=nate-andrew-hays&pid=130354645

Stories from my week

2009-07-24T09:16:00.004-05:00

So this week has been strange. Ive had an amazing week in alot of respects and in others I feel like Ive been backed over with a Dodge.

Story #1: Victoria Holt is not a Salinger...just that kinda week
I seem to have trouble finding my words this week. Whenever I'm in a conversation, Ill be looking for a word and it just escapes me. So I end up describing and using hand motions and I look like a buffoon. Sigh. I guess its all that coke Ive been doing (JUST KIDDING).

So, Thursday we normally have our exec meetings. I'm in the hall outside the conf room waiting for another meeting to end. Leah (the president of a sister company), Andrea (the president of our company - and my boss), Gerrit (my colleague) and Jim (colleague) are all standing out together and talking. We start talking about assumed names and that authors sometimes write under a "pen name" etc. Well, for some reason, I think there is one word that describes a "pen name" but I wasn't thinking assumed name or pseudonym etc. Leah, who is a literary genius, says she is going to think about it. She goes to her office to grab something (we are still waiting for our meeting to start) and comes back and says "I googled Victoria Holt because I know she writes under a pen name (several actually) and all I can find is pen name, assumed name, pseudonym etc. I know she writes under JD something..."

My "wanting to be helpful" ass says "JD Salinger?"

Yeah, let that sink in for a moment

Of course, we all laugh because JD Salinger wrote Catcher in the Rye and is almost 90. Sigh. Its part of the whole, I cant find the right word thing. LOL.

Story #2: Driving like an ass is just not worth it.
So Tuesday Im on my way to work and on 183. Traffic is starting to back up near my exit, but people are still moving about 45 -50 MPH. Im in the middle lane and have about 3 car lengths in front of me before the next car. The car there is a grey dodge ram. In the lane to his right is this white van that is some kind of work or delivery van.

So, as traffic starts to slow, the white van puts on his blinker and comes into the middle lane. Grey truck guy feels that he was cut off so he swerves into the left lane and speeds up to pull along side the white van now in the middle lane. As I see this happen, I slow down because these jokers are obviously high and Im not trying to wreck my wee-mobile.

The grey truck guy pulls up to the white van and flips him off. But not just like once and pulls ahead. He lays on the horn, holds out his arm and paces the van.

Everyone in the left lane then had to slow down. Well, the van in the middle cant go faster because of traffic, so he slows down to get away from crazy-flip-you-off-and-honk-truck guy. So truck guy then slows down.

Sigh

So I'm now about 6 car lengths back because I dont have time to deal with crazy people. Well truck guy realizes he is holding up traffic, so he of course cuts the van off in the middle lane and slams on his breaks. Now at least the left lane is open and not just blocked with the middle.

So truck guy is on the phone and now driving 30 mph. The van cannot escape because traffic is going on both sides because they are the only lanes moving. Truck guy is on the phone and still flipping the van off and driving 30.

I waited until the coast was clear on the left and hit the gas to pass both of them. Who has time for that crap.

My opinion on the situation: There are always going to be people that drive crappy. Someone is going to cut you off for one reason or another. By you acting like an asshole and slowing down, flipping off, honking, taking your eyes off the road etc, you are only further endangering yourself, the other driver, AND EVERYONE ELSE ON THE DAMNED ROAD.

So, dont be a jerk. Just take a deep breath and let them go. Its not worth your life or anyone else's. Seriously. Why get so worked up over something so stupid? Its just material goods or time. If you die, its going to take you alot longer to get where you're going. And if you kill someone else, good luck getting to work from jail.

Story #3: Spaghettio face
Louis and Sam have been spending alot of time together lately. I really think that Sam has added years to Louis's life. Ive never seen that dog play so much in a week. They literally are always playing. If they arent playing, they are sleeping, eating, or peeing. They really play with each other all day.

So, I have nicknames for each dog based on past experiences. I call Sam (Escape - pronounced Es-cap-A) because when we went to Florida, she helped Reef (Matts dog) dig out of the back yard and escape to the front. Both dogs (being scaredy cats) just chilled in the front yard all night til Daniel woke up and got them.

I call Louis McGyver because that dog finds a way to get what he wants somehow. I think he has go-go-gadget pouches to store his ladder, screwdriver etc. The latest thing is that McGyver somehow took Daniels back screen door off the latch. We arent quite sure how he went from a closed door to half hanging off, but it happened.

So story -
Monday, Daniel had spaghettio's for dinner. He didnt eat them all and I think we can all agree that reheated spaghettios with franks are not good. So, Daniel threw the rest away.

Sam (who has been known to go through the trash before) and Louis (who hasnt gone through the trash in a few years, but is an eater and will pretty much eat anything) are left at Daniels while he goes to school. Daniel comes home and both dogs look suspicious.

Apparently, Louis had spaghettio's stuck to his eyes and ears and trash was all over the house. Sam apparently got in the trash and started pulling stuff out. Louis subcommed to peer pressure and decided to dive in and he got the spaghettios. Lets just say that Daniel and Louis had a "talk" that ended up in Louis getting a spanking and Daniel having a scratched eye!

Its definitely been a week. Im glad its Friday!

Living on the Edge of Richness

2009-07-21T09:51:00.003-05:00

Since Ive been hanging out with Daniel alot lately, he's been super supportive of the working out. I of course do alot of elipticising, but as its not super portable, I have to make some concessions. Daniel has been great enough to go on long walks with me and encourage the working out. I also recently discovered that Ft Worth (specifically by TCU) has alot of hills!

So yesterday after work, Daniel and I decided to go on a walk. We left the dogs at the house because as I learned Saturday, Sam is much stronger than Louis and sometimes pulls hard (especially when she spots a bird to catch before I see it). lol Daniel and I set out a bit before 7pm yesterday to begin our walk. We decided to take a new route and explore some of the side streets. Well, let me tell you....the houses over there are unbelievable!!! They are huge!

Now you have to understand our comparison base. Daniel has the cutest house just down from TCU's main campus. It's two bedrooms and a bit small, but it slants! lol. Its so funny. Its really a charming house and it has an amazing back yard. So, when we see houses with more than one bathroom...lol. It seems that he is living right on the edge of richness! Its nice to dream about what you hope to have one day! =)

Well, the more we discovered bigger houses, the more we walked. At a particular point, we decided to go home, and Daniel said that we would just take the next street. Wouldnt you know, the next two were both dead ends! We ended up going down around Colonial and up behind the TCU stadium and back. It was about an hour and a half total. We def got a big workout. My legs were a bit sore!

We had a great time and we talked alot about different topics. It was great. We want to try to do it at least a few times a week. Im not sure how jealous the dogs were that they didnt get to go because they were relaxing and playing in the air conditioned house when we got back! lol

Im in love

2009-07-17T09:35:00.002-05:00

I love Daniel Dase. I love him forever. He is my soul mate.

A little stream of thoughts

2009-07-16T08:19:00.004-05:00

So since last night and this morning Ive been thinking about a few things and I thought that perhaps writing them down would get my mind past them and going again.

Im kinda feeling bummed about work this week. I think it all centers on these two pilots that I wanted to be successful and there's just been no word. Nate reminded me yesterday that "people move at their own pace" and I can completely understand that. I think Im bummed because I take it as a reflection of myself. I suppose that is one thing that I havent been able to shed over the past 4 years. The entire team has worked so hard that I really want to be able to turn folks and show them that their hard work and long hours are paying off. Sometimes, I feel like it is all resting right here. I do wonder if there was something I could have or should have done differently. As I would tell anyone on my team, all you can do is the best you can and give it everything plus some.

On another note, Ive noticed alot of folks (this is not work related at all btw) are just super negative. No matter what, they are looking at the craptastic side of stuff. They have hateful things to say...I guess just to get out some latent anger? Who knows. Ive been listening to my Fellowship cd alot lately (the new one) and I think it would be good for me to keep song 4 in my head a bit more often. "Teach our hands to lead our hearts" Sounds like a good plan.

House related. Did I mention the back yard looks freakin awesome. Dad and Josh busted ass and finished the porch last week. Josh almost lost a finger, but I think it will heal. If not, we have a plan to cut it off. =) LOL JK. I picked up some of the house yesterday. I can tell that Ray is tired lately, or maybe overwhelmed. Who knows. I can tell when she starts leaving stuff around the house. I do the same thing. I tried to pick it up last night and do the dishes etc to give her a little boost. Hope it helps.

Im down to the wire in school. Ive done a great job this semester (I love Dr. H's online classes - and I wish she did more). Id actually love to finish my degree under her just working online. Its a TON of reading and writing, but I learn more in her classes than any other. Perhaps Ill tell Dr. W and see if he will make somethin happen. Never know unless you ask. Anyways, I have one term paper left. Its a doozy. Im going to be working on it all weekend. I really want to pull another A in this class. Again, I think this has to do with the whole reflection of myself thing.

And while Im at it, Ive called my mom 4 different times and left messages and she has yet to call me back. Ive clearly done this to her too before, but its normally only over a weekend (ok, at least I like to think that). So, I know she's around and prob slammed with work, but still. I just wanted to catch up and give her the update. Why am I being so whiney and needey lately? I cant put my finger on it.

I guess thats all Ive got for this morning. I plan to work on the paper, work out, and maybe even bathe the dogs tonight. They are itchy...still. Moose actually got in my bed this morning and was all wet from rolling in the dew outside this morning. Sigh. LOL. Louis did enjoy sleeping on the new sheets last night. Its crazy cause when there are no puppies in the bed, I miss them and when there are 3, I want them to move so I can spread out.

I hope everyone has a blessed and productive Thursday.

To end this post, I want to give a big CONGRATULATIONS to Khris and Nick who got engaged yesterday. They are super fabulous and I cant wait to celebrate with them (I give good presents). lol

Picture from the first day they met in 2006

Pay It Forward: Join Allison's Cause

2009-07-15T17:37:00.003-05:00

My friend Allison (in the black) is raising money for her Livestrong challenge. Livestrong is of course for the Lance Armstrong Foundation and raises money for cancer research. Ive been touched several times by lives that have left us due to cancer. (Pictured Jessica Gage Bonesio www.jessicagage.com)

I would love it if you would pass on Allison's message and even donate if you are able. Spread the word!!!

http://www.kintera.org/faf/donorreg/donorpledge.asp?ievent=294758&supId=247711944&msource=boundlessfun&msource=LSCAUS09BF

AdShuffle Introduces Instant Do-It-Yourself Online Advertising

2009-07-15T09:59:00.001-05:00

AdShuffle EasyPay(TM) is first-ever hassle-free access to ad serving

DALLAS, July 15 /PRNewswire/ -- AdShuffle(R), a global leader in ad serving and marketing technology, today introduced instant do-it-yourself online advertising with the launch of AdShuffle EasyPay(TM).

With AdShuffle EasyPay, users can get started with online advertising in less than 5 minutes using a credit card. As the first major ad server to offer an instant setup with credit card, AdShuffle enables users to instantly take advantage of its groundbreaking:

automatic, real-time creative and landing page optimization
integrated remarketing and targeting technology
robust, real-time reporting
advanced creative management
accurate forecasting and inventory management
industry-leading innovation
the best customer service in the industry

"Whether you're an advertiser or a publisher, a one-person shop or a large network or agency, AdShuffle EasyPay lets you get started with no minimums, no exclusivity, no painful contract process and no hassles," says Herb Vest, chairman and founder of AdShuffle. "No other ad server offers the innovation and turnkey flexibility of AdShuffle without the aggravations and unnecessary steps that other ad servers force customers through."

AdShuffle is offering a $50 credit to new AdShuffle EasyPay customers, so they can see for themselves just how AdShuffle can revolutionize their online marketing efforts.

To use AdShuffle EasyPay, customers make a manual payment to verify their credit card in the AdShuffle EasyPay system, and then set up automated payments to maintain a positive account balance. Accounts are charged daily for impressions served. Once the account is established, customers can set up and launch ad campaigns themselves, using AdShuffle's quick start guides. And while AdShuffle's world-class Client Service team is ready to help every step of the way, all of this can be accomplished without ever picking up the phone.

Signing Up for AdShuffle EasyPay
Signing up for AdShuffle EasyPay is simple. Go tohttp://www.adshuffle.com/easypay

About AdShuffle:
AdShuffle(R) was created in 2005 by a group of veteran Internet executives who found that existing ad serving and marketing technology was unable to meet competitive business needs. AdShuffle integrates both advertiser and publisher solutions within the same interface. AdShuffle's real-time architecture delivers custom reporting, creative and landing page optimization, and remarketing, as well as advanced inventory management and forecasting. AdShuffle is committed to creating solutions that meet the current and future needs of our clients, leading the industry in product innovation and setting the standard in client services. AdShuffle -- the First, Best and Only Choice for Ad Serving(TM)

AdShuffle Media Contact:
Elizabeth Brockey
972-402-4823
elizabeth.brockey@adshuffle.com

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visithttp://www.ereleases.com.
SOURCE AdShuffle

My most expensive friend - and maybe part of a wanted duo

2009-07-15T07:52:00.003-05:00

So last night Cam and I went for a girls night - much deserved and a long time coming. Cam did an amazing job of booking services for us at Woodhouse Day Spa...on her! Ive never had someone treat me to a spa evening, much less a spa day or anything (save one experience with a client). I love the pampering (and Ive been known to pay every once in a while) but it was amazing. As a side note, LA did Cam's hair earlier and it looks so hot. She seriously looks amazing.

Cam picked me up and we headed out to Legacy. We stopped at Cru for a quick snack before our treatments. I told Cam that Id treat dinner since she was doing the spa. (I should have put more thought into that...lol!) We each had a flight of our choice (reasonably priced to taste 3 fine wines) and the fondu appetizer. It was scrumptious. Then, we decided to each have a glass of our favorite wine. Of course we each liked #3 on the list. Apparently it shows what great taste we have because when the bill came ($124 later) we were a bit shocked that I had a $26 glass and she had a $40. Yes, a $40 glass of wine. Do you know what we can do with $40 at Su Vino?

It was a fun splurge though, so we tipped appropriately and headed out. We had to move the car because it was in a 2 hour zone, so we moved it and went to check in at the spa. The offered us wine upon arrival and were prompt in taking us for our facials. They did a great job and I loved that they had so many suggestions of products, but were not pushy. A great experience.

Next, Cam and I went for our pedicures and we got to do them together. It was nice since the last time we splurged, we had to start at different times. I had a mimosa and Cam had some bubbly. The ladies did a great job while Cam and I laughed and joked and of course were inappropriate.

Cam treated me to one of the creams we wanted and she took care of the bill. Thats all Im going to say about that. Let me add one thing - the lady that checked us out absolutely made me think she had full grasp of what we were doing (all 4 services, 2 creams, and one person paying). When we left though, we arent exactly sure what we paid for, but we got a FREAKIN AMAZING DEAL!!!!

We called Grandma T to see if she and Shaw wanted to meet for dinner, but they were already eating, so we went for a snack at an Italian joint nearby. Again, very good food. It was a bit expensive, but ah well.

So overall, an amazing day. Im so grateful, excited, and happy. Thanks so much to Cam for treating me to a fabulous treatment and sharing so much good food!

Vacation Part Deux

2009-07-08T07:21:00.002-05:00

Sooo...

When we left off, Daniel and I had just gotten in the Hummer to head to Florida at about 4am.

So we are in the car and Daniel asks me for something that is currently in the back. I take of my belt and climb to the back to grab whatever it is (I cant remember now). Then Im waiting til he gets to the light to go back up front and he says "Are you coming back up here?"

Naturally, I get pissy and say "Well yeah, but I was waiting for you to slow down so I didnt FLY HEAD FIRST THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD". Daniel, being the loving man that he is, decides not to respond. I get back in the front seat and we go thru the light and keep driving. Keep in mind, we've been in the car maybe 20 seconds.

After about a minute and a half of silence, Daniel says something else to me (of which I cant remember) and I just start balling. Like heinous ugly cry. He looks at me like Im crazy (which I would have also because lets be honest, I cant even remember what he said). So I say Im just tired and frustrated but Ill be fine.

Turns out, that was the only badness we had. We got out of Ft Worth just fine and I closed my eyes until about 620am. We are almost to LA at this time. I wake up and Daniel asks if Im ready to proof read his paper so we can email it to his professor. (Remember, the one we were supposed to work on the night before because its due at 940am) I say yep and pull out the laptop. Daniel and I then look at each other.

*Insert cuss word from D here* "I forgot the damn thumb drive"'

"NO way"

"Yeah, shit"

"Shit. Omg. Shit. What are we going to do? Ok. No problem."

So then we go over our options to write his professor and beg for mercy OR try to bust out a paper on Buddhism in 3 hours.

We chose plan B. Thank God I listen when Daniel talks to me about stuff from class. 8 pages and 3 hours later, we try to email it, but of course, we cant find anywhere with WiFi. Takes an additional two hours to find access along the highway (that we had to pay for I might add) and we get the paper sent off.

Luckily, Ms Dede hooked us up with a travel bag full of treats, so I was able to maintain my mental stamina.

Lets just sum up the rest of the drive with these few highlights.

*Sleep deprevation can cause you to turn on a highway (with the same name) 4 hours, 110 miles, and one state early.
- Warning - This can add almost two hours to your drive

* Sam is a good car dog. She does tend to get pissy when you make her wake up or not share your snacks

* If you arrive at the coast and you dont recognize it (but you've been to Matts before) its safe to say that you took a wrong turn

*The headless deer will appear somewhere around hour 11-13

*Singing Melissa Ethridge songs to your beloved is not as hot as you might think it is

*The Hummer doesnt eat nearly as much gas as you might think. Maybe it was working hard since we had all that trouble

*If you have been awake for 35 hours, your 10 hour trip will obviously take 50% longer.

*Thank God for Arbys

Ok, so those are some highlights of the trip. Daniel and I laughed all the way to P-cola after the paper. It was fun.

We had a blast with the crew. Hit the beach 2 days and even went to Peg Leg Petes. On the 4th Daniel got some fireworks and we played in the driveway until late. You wouldnt believe the crazy fireworks people were shooting off in their yard. Big ones. I was scared. ;)

We left Sunday morning at 5am when Matt got off work. We all loaded up. I got to sleep most of the trip, but I did manage to polish off 90% of a bag of donuts (only food we had all day!) They were great. =)

Sam and I also bonded in the back seat as we both had to share it and we both wanted to sleep stretched out. She didnt get pissy until about hour 9 and then she jumped in the back, but only for 10 mins or so...then she came back to snuggle. =D

So overall, great trip. We will definately be flying next time tho!

My vacation - Day 1: The 20 hour trip (Part 1 - 8pm to 4am)

2009-07-02T19:24:00.006-05:00

Ok. Im beginning this story at 7:24pm. The story begins at 8pm yesterday. When I got off work, I went home, packed, took a shower, and put on comfy clothes so I could be ready for travel. I left my house about 7 and went to Daniels....this is where the story begins.

I arrived at Daniels house packed and ready to go. Daniel was working on his final paper that was due today. We were going to go to his parents house to finish moving and he was going to then come back and he would finish the paper while I slept.

At 8pm yesterday Daniel and I went to his parents old house to finish moving. All we have to do is load up the patio furniture and hook up the trailer and go. Seems simple....

The sun is setting in Fort Worth as we pull up to Dede's. We back the hummer down the driveway and right to the trailer. Daniel hooks up the trailer and the running lights wont come on. As you can imagine, this causes quite a bit of frustration. Daniel figures this has to do with the fuses and so, we start messing with fuses. For those of you that know about Hummer, this causes a fatal error that can cause the car not to go into overdrive.

As Daniel is messing with the car and says I cant help, I decide it would be helpful to move the patio furniture up to the driveway so when he fixes the lights, we can load up and go. So I moved 4 standard chairs, two swivel chairs, two lay out chairs, a small side table, the umbrella stand and the large glass table. Yes, I carried the glass table all the way up the stairs and to the driveway...by myself...in the dark. Each time I come back to the driveway, Daniel is more angry and hasnt gotten anything to play out. I also carried the table last, and lets just say "light" is not a descriptor I would use.

So after about an hour total, Im completely soaked through all my clothes with sweat. The mosquitos are biting me now and Daniel is still cussing about the trailer. He calls Matt to see if there is anything he can recommend. Matt is at a loss, but says we might try disconnecting the battery (or something...) Daniel goes to do that, but doesnt have tools. So, after trying several tools to mess with it, we decide to go up to Walgreens. We take the Hummer, that wont go up the driveway hill yet....and go to Walgreens. We pull up at 9:58pm. Walgreens closes at 10pm. Sadly, the door was already locked and they wouldnt let us in. Even though we knocked...We went to the gas station, and...of course...they had nothing....

Daniel is more pissed now. He says, screw it, we are going to load up the trailer and go to his house and fix it or take the Fit. No problem...We go back and load up the trailer and tie everything down. Of course, the umbrella wont go in. Once again, as Im moving this furniture, I get more and more sweaty. Long story short, its now about 1045 (because we messed with the trailer some more) and we go to Daniels. We make the drive and get home with no issues. On the way home, I suggest that while Daniel messes with the fuses, I take the Fit and go to Dede's to get the other stuff for Matt.

I get to Dede's and she and Aunt Kathy help me load the car. Dede even prepared a care package for Daniel and I, and they hooked us up with food because we hadnt eaten dinner. With the stuff for Matt packed full in the Fit, I headed back to Daniels with my half sandwich and chickent lettuce wraps.

I arrive back at Daniels at 11:30pm. He is still in the driveway with the Hummer. He's now messing with the fuses again, has taken off his shirt and is in his tank undershirt and shorts, covered in dirt and in the Hummer with a flashlight.

I sigh and get out and unload the car. Again, Im moving heavy stuff with no help. I see that Daniel is now laying upside down and backwards in the Hummer with a flashlight. I ask if I can help, and Daniel agrees to let me hold the flashlight.

Ok, so now its around...midnight. Daniel still hasnt finished his paper (due in the morning) and the running lights arent on the trailer, and we havent slept. Tensions run high as Daniel and I sit on the driveway with a flashlight, splicing wires. At about 1pm, Daniel decides that the problem is with the switch connecting to the Hummer, so he goes to the gas station to get a new one. After two gas station stops, Daniel calls and says he is going to WalMart and to go ahead and take a shower and get ready because its either going to work or we are taking the Fit. No problem.

Well, Im picking up the toolbox that is on the porch floor and I dont realize that the bolds for the crescent wrench werent locked in the box. I dump them all over the porch. So, for about 30 mins I look for this one missing bolt head. (Turns out it was in the Hummer), but I still look for it and miss my shower. From the time I stopped looking to the time Daniel came back was about 3 mins. There was no chance for a shower. So, Im still in my sweat soaked and now dirt covered clothes with everything picked up and a missing wrench head. At about 130 Daniel gets back and has a bunch of bags. He says that he has all the stuff he needs and he is going to fix the problem. If the fix doesnt work, we'll leave. We both sit on the floor of the driveway and begin to splice wires. Im holding the flashlight again.

Daniel and I are pretty determined folks, so we continue to troubleshoot for the next 2.5 hours. Yes, thats right, 2.5 hours.

Around 3am, we figure out how to get the running lights on the trailer (for which I wont tell you how because I dont want the cops hunting me down...) Daniel asks me to put everything in the car while he gets everything fixed up and connected. I start moving stuff and Im exhausted. I move a bunch of heavy stuff and again become covered in sweat. We get all the bags in, the house locked up, Sam in the car, trailer hooked up and we are ready to go. Daniel and I pull out of the house at 3:45am. In reality, we are only about 2 hours behind our original schedule, but let me give you the overview of how things are going. We've now been working on this project since 8am, about 7.5 hours. Ive been soaked through my clothes with sweat three times, have only had about 5 bites of ice cream, Daniel still doesnt have a complete paper and Im covered in dirt. But, we are finally leaving.

As we pull out of the driveway, Daniel asks if I have this particular paper in the car and I said yes, but it was in the back. We are 5 houses away as Im in the back seat and waiting for Daniel to break so I can move back to the front seat. Daniel says "Were you going to come back up front?" and I say "Yes, but I was waiting for you to break so I didnt fly through the windshield." We are obviously exhausted and just over it. We sit quietly until we are about to pull onto I-30 and Daniel and I get in a fight about nothing (literally...neither one of us can remember what we were talking about and the comment from Daniel wasnt even directed at me). Well, I get sensitive and start balling. We've been in the car for 2 minutes and Im balling. Like hard core.

So Daniel and I get over it, laugh and continue driving. Its now about 4am. Im going to provide an overview of the highlights of the drive and Ill try to give you just the funny parts. Stay tuned for Part 2....

Mid week update - Happy July

2009-07-01T07:08:00.002-05:00

Happy July 1st!!!

What a week it's been and we are only two days in! I leave for Florida tomorrow and Im not ready at all. I still have laundry and packing to do. Its just the nature of the beast I suppose!

Update on the flood: We've staved off building Noah's ark for the time being. Dad replaced the shower head and it appears the flooding has ceased. The carpet is drying out with the help of Josh's wee fan, so I hold high hopes that I wont be standing on bare concrete for weeks. =)

Dogs: Monday night we attempted to change the bandages on all dogs. Louis of course was much more cooperative. We got his bandage off his leg and of course he was able to open it back up within minutes, resulting in a new bandage. We are waiting until next week to take it off again! We took Moose's bandage off his tail (to which we subsequently found out that we were supposed to leave it on for 5 days...whoops!) He was not excited (thats one way to phrase it) about changing his bandage. After holding him down and having him wiggle loose twice (he's crafty and spry) we finally had to wrap him like a burrito to fix him up. After he finally submitted and realized 3 adults were too much for him to shake off (he easily handled Ray and I) we were able to get him all bandaged up. =)

Squirrels: We have had no more dead bodies in the house this week. I realize this can change at any moment...

Work: Busy!!! We have had alot of items to take care of and going on vacation makes me nervous! Luckily, I have a crack team that Ive worked with for yeards and I know they can handle it...Im kind of a control freak on that stuff (hard to believe I know!), but my desire for the beach and hitting the board walk is strong!!!

Last few notes: Its been a tough week for some folks that I really care about. Everyone has issues and events to deal with. Ive found that no matter what, something is always going to happen and not go your way. The outcome depends on how you handle it and how you react. Ive said quite a few prayers for those close to me, so if you have some extra space, feel free to throw up an extra one for them. You dont need names, God knows who they are ;)

OH! P.S. - I forgot to tell you, Monday night after we changed the bandages on the dogs, Rachel was messin with the toilet in her bathroom and she got hit with the toilet water again. OMG talk about funny. RACHEL GOT A SWIRLY!!!!! I wish I had taken a picture to show you all...

Do you like my festive colors for the text (besides the green PS)

I look forward to keeping everyone updated on the vacation and posting some pictures too!!!!

The floods are coming - I think its a sign

2009-06-29T09:12:00.003-05:00

So, Rachel and I live in the Mound, in a house that my dad bought. My faithful best bud Josh moved in for a bit while he transitions back to TX. Thank God for him. In the last two days, he's been good to have around.

I was going to wait to blog today until after my chiropractor appt, but this is just insane.

This morning I get up to get ready, I go into the laundry room, put my clothes in the dryer, and go take a shower. I get out of the shower and begin to brush my teeth. It feels like the floor is wet. The carpet that is.

Odd, perhaps my feet were wet when I walked over to the sink....

Perhaps I dropped water from my toothbrush on my foot...

I move to the middle of the sink area to continue the readying process and the carpet makes a squishy sound. Odd... I look around for Louis to see if he's making noise...Nope, no Louis.

I look around for Moose to see if he's killing another fetal squirrel...Nope, no Moose...and no squirrel (of any size).

Odd. I begin to tap my foot around all parts of the sink. Squish...squish...squish...

Over by the shower...squish...squish..

Crud...

"Ray!" I yell and run to her room. She's not there because she left over an hour ago to go to school. Damn it!

I call Dad and tell him. He's coming to look at it.

I write a note to put on the washer so noone uses it...

I open the laundry room door to put it on the washer and .... flood. Yep, the entire floor is a puddle of water. Not kidding.

I call Dad back. It seems that the shower is leaking and has soaked my bathroom floor and the laundry room. Luckily, the laundry room is tile. Thank God!

I fear we are about to embark on another tiling of the bathroom project....sigh!

Sorry Jack, The Godfather has spoken!

2009-06-28T09:22:00.003-05:00

Saturday was a *fun* day at our house. This is one story that just had to be shared.

First, some background...Rachel and I each have a dog. Yes, two dogs (raised by us) living in the same house. For many of you, an understanding will be hard to grasp, but for those of you that know, comedy ensues nearly every day. Louis is now 4.5. I found him Feb 11, 2005 in a parking lot: abandoned, sick, and 4 lbs. So cute. I rescued him and he's been with me since. Moose is the dog Rachel rescued. He is now almost 6 and has a...personality.

Over the years that we have all lived together (just over 2 now), Moose and Louis have done some pretty funny stuff. Louis is known as the lazy one, always asleep or resting, but always up for a snack. Moose...well, Im not sure we can put him in any one bucket. He is just Moose. He does tend to bring in animals. And this is where our story begins.

Moose, being the caring individual that he is, tends to try to catch animals in the yard and bring them into the house. He's successfully caught two birds and released them to fly in our house. Rachel and I were not as excited about that as he was. He's also successfully caught a rabbit, however the rabbit did not live through the journey.

Ok, enough background. Yesterday (6/27/09) Rachel calls me. Here's how the story goes:

Rachel: We had a crisis this morning.

Liz: What? What happened?

R: Well, I woke up and saw this thing at the end of my bed. I thought it was a rawhide but as I got closer, I realized that it was a dead carcus.

L: OMG. What?

R: Yeah, Moose caught a bunny and brought it in the house...in my bed.

L: What did you do!?!

R: I got up and got Josh, but then by the time we came back down the hall, Moose realized I saw it and he had it in his mouth. He charged me up in the hallway and was not going to let it go. Im screaming at him to let it go and Ive got him by the collar. Then, he chomped down and the sound of that crunch will haunt me for eternity.

L: Holy shit. Omg. That is nasty.

R: Yeah, so when that happened, I let go and he ran into the living room and took the dead bunny on the couch. We chased him around the house and he went outside. Well, then we couldnt find it. Josh thought he ate it, so we left the dogs outside.

L: What was Louis doing all this time?

R: Running around like an asshole. He had no clue what was going on....So, then, while the dogs are outside, Becca and I go to the farmers market and Dad comes over. I told him what happened and he is laughing hysterically. So the dogs are in the yard with Dad and he needs to put them in the house. Well, while in the house, Becca finds the original bunny carcus in the living room. I had to wake Josh up for a second time to get it and dispose of it. At that point, we discovered it was a baby squirrel and not a bunny.

L: Oh gross.

R: Yeah, it gets worse. So then Im going to give Moose a bath. He's in the tub and he hits his tail and it busts open and starts bleeding.

L: Please tell me you're lying

R: Yeah, so I have blood all over me. We wrap it up, but he keeps taking off the bandage. Everytime he wags his tail, it starts bleeding again. So, we take him to the vet and they bandage him all up. So then I come home, get the blood stain out of my clothes and go to take a shower. I get out of the shower (in your room) and whats on the floor in front of me? Yes, another dead baby squirrel carcus. Shit. So, long story short, Josh comes to get it. Well, we go into the living room and Louis is laying on the floor by the chair and licking another dead baby squirrel carcus.

L: Oh dear God no.

R: Yeah. So the body count is now 3.

L: Well, did you check my bed to make sure there wasnt one

R: No...

L: Can you?

R: Yeah...going in there....Um, ok, not to freak you out....

L: Crap

R: But did you have a bloody nose or something?

L: NO! Oh God. Sick. I think Im gonna puke...

R: Dont worry. Ill fix it. Um, you may want to avoid coming home for a bit...

Ok, So thats just about how the story went. 3 dead baby squirrel carcuses and one in each of our beds. My dad, being the helpful gent that he is, reminded us of the movie The Godfather and warned us to "watch our backs" as its apparent Moose and his goon squad (Louis) are after us...

At least we arent pedophiles and the squirrels werent worth $6mil.

Sigh!