The Answers

Happy Friday! Here are the answers for the songs that were not guessed: #3 "We hate it when our friends become successful" Morrissey #11 "Looking at the world from the bottom of a well" Mike Doughty #15 "I wanna sex you up" Color Me Badddddd #17 "I'll take you there" crap, I don't remember the artist(s) I'm tired, it's been a long week #20 "Playing with the boys" - Kenny Loggins How's that for cheese? Thanks for playing! The winners are AG and Brando. AG wants pancakes or something from BP Rotten, so I'm out of that. Brando - you will your very own copy of the Best of Cheese! Congrats! Have a great long weekend. I'm off to buy "The Audacity of Hope".

One political post

I keep seeing the footage of the Jackson Jr/Daley/Madigan/Blago hug-it-out. I think it's awesome. I'm most impressed by JJjr. Usually I am not really a fan of his, but in this moment, right now, I'm impressed. Whether what he said was contrived, or even not his own words, the reaction that they got was really something. I also don't think he's the worlds greatest actor - those tears were real. Shit, I would cry if Mayor Daley hugged me, that guy's a big deal. I think Mayor D deserves kudos for getting up and starting the hug-off. He didn't have to do that, hell, he's Mayor D, but he did. In my eyes, that makes him a better person. Madigan and Blago? Meh. Maybe because I really really can't stand Blago, maybe because everything he does is fake and bull shitty. Ok, I'm getting hives. No more writing about politics. Oh, and for my Chicago readers - You want high drama? Get yourself a copy of today's SunTimes and read all of the Mariotti stuff. It's good reading. Even the editor-in-chief chimed in - hilarious. You know it's going to be good when the paper put a picture of a reader on the cover simply because he started reading the Sun Times again now that Mariotti is gone.

Scattered thoughts

I'm having one of those busy weeks. Those Really busy weeks. I have to run registration for the German school tonight. Tomorrow night I have an Oktoberfest planning meeting (but I'm glad I was invited to the meeting!). Friday night I am volunteering at Old Town. Saturday going out. Sunday going out. I don't plan on these kinds of weeks, I don't even like them very much. It's just funny how I keep saying yes to things, and my calendar fills up. I need to find a happy medium - somewhere between bored and hyper-busy. I had lunch with Shannon yesterday. She's the best. I needed to share a laugh, and I needed some serious encouragement. We had a good couple of laughs, and she's given me the kick in the pants I need on the topic I am having some trouble with. She's pretty good at talking sense into me. I am a little pissed at Obama. See, I say do your thing, campaign, have your convention, become our candidate, whatever. Did he really need to not only say he was a White Sux fan, but also slam on Cubs fans?!? Thank God he didn't slam the Cubs themselves, or I might have spent about 3 seconds considering becoming a republican *shudder*. But seriously - stick to the important stuff, please Obama. *Previous statement being the extent of my writing about politics. I just choose not to do it here. Speaking of that little convention in Denver. I spit out my cereal yesterday morning when I saw that the three loser dudes who were arrested on drug charges and possibly making threats against Obama were staying at the Very Hotel that I stayed at in Denver. Do you see how craptacular that place was? Too funny. While watching the Cubs game last night I had a random thought. It was exactly this 'I really wish I was friends with Lou Pinella. He looks like fun, and so bad-ass.' I also changed out the songs on my iPod. Fackin' stupid shuffle. I change the songs out once a week. I will will will be getting a real, better, iPod by the end of the year. Super awesome cousin Jyl was at the same lame event I was Sunday night, making me feel so much better about being there. I was at the Backstreet Boys concert. It was more of a have to than a want to. BUT I had a great time. I did some go-go dancing, had some wine and cheese. It was a beautiful night, and I spent time with people I don't see very often. I will, however, give up a few cool points for going. The crowd was exactly what I knew it would be - young girls, 20-30 year old fat chicks, and gay men. The people watching was fantastic.

Crap

I was cold this morning. Wearing a sweater. THEN I saw a couple of leaves fall off the tree outside my window. How dare they!?!? It's almost fall. Crap.

3 6 5

That's how many days I've been a non-smoker. 1 year. I don't need kudos, I don't need pats on the back. I'm proud of myself. Never in my life did I think I would quit smoking. I had never before tried to quit. I quit because it was time. I had been smoking 1/2 my life, and I knew that I needed to be done. I quit in Las Vegas. I believe that if I can quit smoking in Las Vegas, I can stay quit. My cough is completely gone. I sleep so much better. I can exercise better, longer. I feel so much better. I also feel if I can quit smoking, I can do a lot to make myself better. Go Me.

Name that tune - the Best of Cheese

Anyone who has received the Best of Cheese CD is not allowed to play. Otherwise, you know the rules:

1. 1. And now the times are changing - look at everything that's come and gone - sometimes when I play that old six string - I think about you wonder what went wrong
2. 2. Magenta feelings take up shelter in the base of my spine - Sweet like a chik a cherry cola
3. 3. Oh look at those clothes - Now look at that fad, it's so old - And such a video! - Well, it's really laughable
4. 4. It's time to play the music - It's time to light the lights - It's time to meet the muppets - on the muppet show tonight (this one is such a freebie!)
5. 5. Blame it all on my roots - I showed up in boots - and ruined your black tie affair - The last one to know - the last one to show - I was the last one you thought you'd see there
6. 6. I'm on my feet - I'm on the floor - I'm good to go - Now all I need is just to hear a song I know - I wanna always feel like part of this was mine
7. 7. I'll shine up my old brown shoes - PUt on a brand new shirt - I'll get home early from work - If you say, that you love me
8. 8. We are all sitting - legs crossed round a fire - My yellow flame she dances (RIP LeRoi)
9. 9. The third time I saw lightning strike it hit me in bed - It threw me around - And left me for dead (repeat! second one!)
10. 10. Will you take the pain - I will give to you - Again, and again, and will you return it
11. 11. That Cuban girl - That brought me low - She had that skin so fine, and red lips rose-like now
12. 12. I offer thanks to those before me - that's all I have to say - 'Cause maybe you squandered big bucks in your lifetime - now I have to pay - How long?
13. 13. I like where we are - when we drive in your car - I like where we are......here (google this one-hit wonder, 2007)
14. 14. Well I would like to hold my little hand - I will run I will - I will cry I will - I will run I will - I will cry
15. 15. Come inside, take off your coat - I'll make you feel at home - Now let's pour a glass of wine - 'Cause now we're all alone
16. 16. Love is like a bomb - baby, come and get it on - livin' like a lover - with a radar phone
17. 17. I know a place - ain't no body cryin' - ain't nobody worried - ain't no smiling faces
18. 18. I got 99 problems, but a bitch ain't one - Hit me - Shut up when I'm talking to you
19. 19. Zappin' it to ya - The pressure's everywhere - Goin right through ya - The fever is in the air
20. 20. Said it was the wrong thing - For me to do - I said it's just a boys' game - The girls play too - My heart is working over time - In this kind of game - People get hurt

Ok - THis is the Best of Cheese - ALL cheesy songs. Winner gets ........ A copy of the Best of Cheese!! (It grows on ya, trust me) Most correct guesses gets a copy. Answers will be posted next Friday for the ones that aren't guessed. Happy Friday!

First drunk blog

Hi! Welcome to my first drunk blog. I will be correcting no spelling or grammatical errors. I'm drunk. A) Showering while drunk is very very scarhy B) Allagash Fsomething or other is deliciuos for $26/bottle yum.... C) Bartenders like you when you tip them to not tell who ordered the Allagash on the tab D) Having the spins while still awake bodes badly for work friday am E) cubs win - 3 to 2, should have been so much better than that. Still, not a bad game all in all F) tv while drunk is boring G) I need to throw up

Squeeee!

In 3 hours and 5 minutes, I'll be at Wrigley, watching my Cubbies. It's a good day.

OOps

So, this morning I was listening to my ipod on the train. A rare occurance. I fear losing my ipod right up there with losing Charlie. It rarely accompanies me to work. But for whatever reason, I was listening to it today. I don't know if it was Staind pumping up my bitch-factor, but this happened right after I got off the train: So, I'm waiting in this medium-ish line to go through the revolving door from the train tracks to the main building. With Everyone Else. Well. Some self entitled blonde skinny bitch just skips the lines all together and waltzes right up to the revolving door. To which I say "Well who the fuck are you?!?" I'm kinda deaf, so yep, my ipod was l o u d. Hence, I said that L O U D. The cute dude in front of me half turns, mumbles something, and turns back around. I turn off my music. Dude turns again, and turns back. I hear him mumble "Good Morning?" I said, "Oh! No! That wasn't for you! That was for that lady! The line jumping bad chick there!" He says "Oh, ok, I got a little nervous." I touched his arm (*I don't do this to strangers. I kinda don't do this ever.) and said "Oh, no, you're totally fine!" He gave me a final odd glance and went his way through the revolving door. Evil line jumping bitch was long gone. Oops.

Toxic Trio

An interesting topic came up Monday night whilst watching The Hills with VonSis and Sil1x. (Stop with The Hills snark. I love that freakin show. I'm team LC and not ashamed of it. Plus it's quality time with VonSis and Sil1x and has been for like EVER) Anyway. We were watching the cattiness between the roommates, LC, Lo, and Audrina. LC said "I wish it could go back to how it was." Dude, it can't. See, you decided to live with both of them. Sil1x said "Groups of three friends doesn't work. Me, P, and J are the exception." I pondered on this for a bit. She's right. Really right. Her friendships with P and J are awesome, and they work somehow. When I started to think of my own friendships, I was even more convinced that she was right. Once upon a time, I had Laura, and Ass(name changed to protect the heinous bitch). Ass was my oldest friend from forever, and Laura was my new friend. I thought the three of us would dominate the world! Or at least our small corner of the NW side of Chicago. It didn't take long for that to turn into a hot mess. Turns out Ass was actually one of Satan's minions. Ultimately Laura and I kicked Ass to the curb where she remains. See, two friends works. Four or more friends works too. Three is toxic. There's just something about three that does not work. I think it has to do with that odd man out thing. I don't know if it works for guys. I don't know of any of my guy friends that have a core group of three. Most of my guy friends have larger core groups. I think guys might be able to pull of the trio easier than girls. I think girls get jealous of the time that the other two might be spending, or paranoid that the other two are talking about her, or they may just prefer one friend over the other. I don't really know what's behind it.

First, and UPdate

Just got back from a lovely Peruvian BYOB with Shannon and TheMarty. I dig them the most. They are right up there on my short list of most favorite people to hang out with. ANYWHO Thought some of you might be curiuos about our poor Charlie. He's better. Not great, not 100%, but better. He was meh when we got up this morning. When I got home from work, he had improved. His tail was wagging, and I could tell that he wanted to jump up on my legs to say hello and get/give kisses, but he thought better of it. *He's so smart!* When I got back from dinner, he was even more peppy. I'm going to try to breathe again now, and stop with the worry wrinkles I'm giving myself. He's eating, and tail wagging, and he just looks a little better. Thanks to all for the well wishes.

Weekend in review

Nothing. Friday night: Kids' birthday party at 9pm. At a pool. It was cold. Almost hit a skunk. Was cranky. Saturday: Joined W2. Cleaned house. Tried to watch Netflix. This one broken too. Cable busted. Badly timed 2 hour nap. Charlie not acting like himself. Cranky/borderline worried about Charlie. Sunday: Upside: Lunch w/ K. Love her! Don't see enough of her! Downside: First day of W2 - points?!? WTF?!?!? I ate 23 points at lunch. Starved all evening, yep this is fun. Sat at a fest to promote DANK. Shitty fest. Hot. NO breeze. Saw some cool planes from the air and water show. Charlie's back really bothering him, pills not helping much. Cranky/worried/tired. Glad it's Monday, that's how meh my weekend was.

Friday Frivolity

This is TheMarty doing TheRobot the weekend AG and MenD were here: (he told me to post it, so here it is) Makes me giggle. A thought, an idea, a point for discussion: Though I am not one of those bloggers that throws things out to be discussed on my comments, (aside from the Name that Tune *which will be back next Friday! stay tuned!*) I was thinking that for my 100th post - which is approaching much faster than I thought it would! - that you all could give me topics, and I'll write about one of them. Submit as many topics as you like. If there's a lot of them, I'll pull the winner from a hat. If the suggestions are rockin' awesome, I might do this for post 100 and 101 (why is 100 so special, anyway? Why not 101?) So, that's my cheesy idea. Let me know what you think. It's Friday. I'm in a good mood, and I'm not leaving town this weekend! I'm going for intentionally low key.

A cheerful post

Tonight I will be going out with my kids. Yep. My. kids. I have somewhere between 8 and 12 kids. They are all between the ages of 19 and 22. No, I am not a teenage mother. Let me 'splain. For seven years I worked part time at a drop in center for teenagers. It was open weekend evenings and I was there often twice a weekend. There is a story behind why I started working there. I was at the mall and some stupid asswipe teenager said some stupid comment at my general direction. As I was driving home, I was pissed. I hated teenagers in that moment. I decided I could either add teenagers to the list of people I hate, or I could try to work with them to help them be a little more tolerable to the adult population. I opted for the latter. I knew about this teen center in a suburb close to my house. I called them up and they were hiring. I became staff, and quickly became a supervisor. I was responsible not only for the kids, but also for the other staff on nights that I worked. I loved working there. I have to admit it wasn't always easy. At times it was the hardest thing in the world. I found I have a knack for working with teenagers, something not everyone can do. I also had a soft spot for my "regulars". More than a few kids came in nearly every night. It was my job and also my privilege to get to know them. These kids were smart. Some cunningly so, others surprisingly so. I know that I tried to help them all, in some way. Sometimes just listening to their music and playing a game of pool was enough. Other times were harder, like the month I spent consoling the girl who's boyfriend (another one of "my" kids) had died in a stupid, avoidable car accident. I spent more than a few car rides home after a shift crying my eyes out because one of my kids had disappointed me, or pissed me off, or had died. Unfortunately more than one of them passed away. The kids I am having dinner with tonight are the ones that best define MyKids. They even call themselves that. They are sophomores, juniors, and seniors in college now. They go to different schools, all across the country. I had tried to keep up with them, but last winter I also decided to let them go. I didn't want them to have to carve time out of their precious winter and summer breaks to spend time with me. I was satisfied to have known them, and was going to be ok with it. Happily, they had a different opinion. The message I got a couple of weeks ago on my cell: "Von. It's V. We were thinking about you and would like to all get together for dinner before we head back to school. Everyone wants to go. Give me a call." It took me 1/2 second to call him back. I choked up a little, he sounds like a grown-up (almost) now. I guess he should, he's 19. I left the teen center almost two years ago. It was a personal and difficult decision, but I don't regret it. It's time for me to do other things. Someday I hope to work with teenagers again, but for now, I'll just look forward to that call every six months or so, when my kids think of me.

Picture Proof

I wasn't kidding:

The Bride wore RED

Back from Denver. Here's what I learned about Denver: Lots of tattoos Lots of dogs People are WAY too nice. They look you in the eye and stuff. It creeped me out. I wanted to punch someone in the face by about day two. Strangers just chattin you up like no one's business. Hated that. I had a fantastic time. It went something like this: Friday I checked in to my crappy hotel. You get what you pay for, so I knew it would be crappy. VonCousin picked me up and I got to have lunch with her and her adorable baby girl. She dropped me off at this fancy schmancy mall. I walked around and went to the movies. I was pretty tired so I went back to the hotel. Saturday was the wedding. The location was fantastic. It was in this really cute art gallery. Chris wore this fantastic zoot suit. It was black with red pinstripes. He looked great. His lovely bride Megan wore this incredible red dress. Hell yes, I said red. It was amazing. I had never met Megan before, but once I saw that dress I knew Chris had been right when he said that she and I would click. We really did. Chris' friends are all very cool, and I had a great time. I didn't get too drunk because we had to be up bright and early for Sunday's adventures. On Sunday about 35 of us went on this all day tour. First we went to Red Rocks and it was as cool as I had always imagined. I'd love to see a show there! After that we went up, and up, and up into the mountains. We went over Loveland (I think that's right?) pass at the Continental Divide. We got out of the bus there to take pictures. I felt a little queasy up there, but not bad. After that we went to Breckenridge. It was beautiful. We had lunch there. I sat with Chris' friends Rudy, Amy, and Rebecca. They are hilarious. After lunch we headed back down to Denver. We stopped at a real and actual gold mine and went on a tour and did a little panning for gold in the creek. We were all pretty tired when we got back so I just went back to the hotel and had dinner and packed. I am so glad that Chris and I have stayed friends. He's the best thing I got out of my last job. Megan is wonderful, and I feel that she and I will end up great friends. I will definitely go back to Denver to visit them. I'm really glad I went by myself, too. I now have my first solo vacation behind me. I feel confident I can and will do it again. It was pretty cool to do what I wanted when I wanted, and not have to worry about anyone else. I came home feeling really relaxed. Yet, still tired! Thankfully I am not going out of town this weekend!

Denver and douchebag

Tomorrow bright and early I am heading to Denver. I've never been there before. Here's the conversation with my buddy Chris that led to this trip: Me: "So, I've been thinking of going to either Seattle or Denver this year." C: "About when would you be going?" Me: "I dunno. Late summer, early fallish?" C: "Why don't you come to the wedding then?" See - this is why I love my guy friends. No bull shit, just a + b = c. Von + trip = Chris' wedding. Easy breezy. I'm looking forward to it. I get to see my cousin and her new(ish) baby girl who I'm meeting for the first time. I get to travel solo for the first time. I get to see Chris and meet his awesome bride Megan. I wasn't supposed to be going alone. Since I had promised that I wouldn't be cryptic on my blog, let me just say this - fack you ShannonG (she is ShannonG here so as not to confuse her with Shannon See Glass Run Shannon, who I still love lots). ShannonG was supposed to go with me on this trip. We talked about it more than once. Then, not for the first time she fell of the face of the earth. I sent emails, I called, she blew me off. Funny how she did that considering the last time I saw her I said "Blowing me off is bad. It hurts me a lot, and it makes me want to write people off." So, for that she is a spineless pussy. See, she postures she's all big and bad and tough, yet instead of saying "I don't want to go on this trip with you." or "I'm done being friends with you" she just blew me off. So let ME be the one to say it - I am done with you. I have enough friends who are actually worth something to me, and I to them, and I don't need you and your white trash bull shit anymore. We are no longer friends. Basically, you no longer exist to me. *Ahem* So, for the rest of you who are Not ShannonG, have a nice weekend, and hopefully I'll have some good stories upon my return Tuesday.

Something bothering me

So, something's been bothering me this summer. It's a trend. I guess. If you can call it that. I've seen a lot of people (mostly women - isn't it always?!) wearing scarves. And sometimes hats. Like Winter scarves and hats. Not. cute. people. Not cute at all. This is Chicago. In summer. It's 85 degrees with high humidity. It's not like you can be cold. If you are, see a doctor. Eat some soup. I think the next person I see wearing this ridiculousness I might just have to rip it right off of them. On another topic, I have an infatuation with my pedicure dude. Yep, he's a dude. And not at all gay. He's kind of pouty and pissy every time I go in there. So what do I do? Of course I try to engage him in chatter and try to get him to at least crack a smile. Last night I went to see him for my pedi for the wedding this weekend in Denver. Of course, he was cranky. I walk up to him and hand him the black polish I have selected. He said "Why? Why black?" I tell him I am going to a wedding in Denver and need something a little edgy . He thinks about it for a minute. He says "Ok" So, after a fabulous pedi he starts painting my pretty toes. He puts on one coat of black, and follows it up with a coat of pearly pinkish fun. So now my black toes are now purply black. I heart him lots and lots. Am I ready for my trip? No where near ready. But I'm thinking about it!

Weekend in review

I know. It's late. It's late Monday afternoon, hardly time for the weekend in review. But this is the first chance I've had to sit down at all this weekend, so here you go. As you know, AG and MenD came to visit this past weekend. Friday afternoon AG and I sat in the yard and had some cheese and crackers and fruit. After a while we meandered over to Shannon and TheMarty's house for some pizza (best pizza I've probably ever had). We met a couple of TheMarty's friends. I'm starting to love when I say "Hi, I'm Von" and the other person says "Oh! Von! That Von!" It's pretty awesome. Anyway, after pizza we took a drive to Sid's. On our way we drove past Lollapalooza and heard some of Radiohead's show. I LOVE this city. Sid's was good. I had an ok time. I also promised Timmy I would be back, and we all know I don't lie, so I will indeed go back at some point. After getting home at 3am, I had to get up about 3 hours later to pick up MenD from the train station. MenD is teh awesome though. I would sacrifice sleep for him any day :) Anyway, after some more sleep, we got MenD to make us breakfast - can any man so NO to AG and Von? Not so much - . After yummy breakfast we sat around and chatted for a while. Saturday evening we met up with Shannon and TheMarty. We went to Kuma's Korner for dinner *if you live anywhere near Chicago and haven't had a Kuma's burger, get your ass there n o w*. We had a couple of beers there because we had some time to kill. I ended up wearing one of TheMarty's beers. I have no idea why he hates me, but anyway. We then went to see my cousin in Let's Go Love, a fantastic show created by the masterful and wickedly hilarious Matthew Hollis. I was a little concerned that the show might not have been for everyone (gay men dancing around in fishnets and heels at one point) but everyone said they loved it, so that was cool. We headed over to Daily for a few drinks. I would be remiss if I didn't take my guests to Daily. It's like my "place". I was the designated driver, so I have no silly anecdotes about my drunk self from this outing. Sunday we had brunch at Tweet (my God tasty). So, I am pulling into the prime parking spot right in front of Tweet and some stupid twig girl says "I don't think that's a parking spot." The windows were open, so of course I heard her, and of course I was then a little irritated. So, I felt the need to respond. It went something like this: "Fack off. It is so a parking spot, and I don't think I even asked you." Or something along those lines. She was evil, and should have minded her business. Brunch was delicious, all agreed. Shannon and I then took AG and MenD to the South Shore and Chinatown. Alas, it was then time to send AG back to the East Coast. After dropping her off, we went back to Shannon and TheMarty's and finished off the pizza from Friday night. The four of us went to see Batman, and then I took MenD to Jet's for a couple of beers. MenD headed (bravely solo) off to downtown this morning before heading back to the airport. It was a great weekend. It was good to do things that I've missed and things that I've been meaning to do. A whole lot of Chicago in one weekend. This weekend I'm heading to Denver, this will be the last of my whirlwind of a summer for a few weeks, until Shannon and I head to Galena in about a month. I'm getting a little tired.

So, hm. John Mayer

Good news! Internet working! Landoverlord installed or plugged in or whatever the wireless router thing. My computer is a little slower than it was, but I am so not complaining. Anyway. I've been wanting to write about this for a little while now, so here it is. A couple of weeks ago, I went to see John Mayer. I went for two reasons (and ONLY two reasons). 1) it was a favor to Tonya. She had tickets, and no one else wanted to go, so I went. Sometimes, I'm a sucker. 2) Colbie Calait was opening. Now, I generally don't like female singers at all, but I have her cd, and I like every song on it, so I wanted to see if she can bring it live. She totally can. I was even more impressed with her live than I was with the cd. She's got a groovy husky voice going on, and she's all of like 19 years old or something. Girl needs to eat a sandwich or twenty, but we'll forgive her. Now. John Mayer. First, the bad. He has a stroke face when he sings. Like, big time. Like, all the time. However, I think he knows it. He said something about not being a concert singer, I think that's what he meant. So, I admit, I giggled more than a few times at his weird facial contortions. Also, when he played those awful over-played radio song I groaned, whined, and sank down in my chair, practically to the floor. Dude, the world is not going to change just because you said so. Take a happy pill. Stop whining. Shit. Now for the surprising good. Boy can play a guitar. For real. There were times during the show when he would practically just sit down on the stage and start playing the blues. In those magical moments it was like no one else was there but him and his guitar. He would concentrate, like he was thinking 'what can I make this thing do' and he would just play and play. If he had kept he strokey mouth shut more and played more guitar, I'd have liked it even more. He DIDN'T play "your body is a wonderland". Big bonus points for that. He took an audience vote, and actually listened to the crowd. Didn't play it. Big plus. He played four covers. This impressed me because he has an extensive lyrical library of his own, yet maybe even he gets sick of his own songs. He opened with "Sweet home Chicago" - not original, but well played. About 1/4 of the way through he played "Free Falling" it was a unique twist on a song I already loved, so cool. A while after that "Crossroads" - blues, perfect, he owned it, telling you the man should switch to all blues (ok, with a few ballads thrown in, I am a girl after all.) The first song of the encore was "Panama" during which JM played his Van Halen red and white authentic, and one of his band members was singing - this was Fantastic. Until. Until the dumb bitch hussies in front of us looked around confused and one of them said "Who's Pamela?" I shit you not. I wanted to hit her just for that. Another big big plus (that, or I'm going soft) is when he appreciated the crowd, which he did a lot, I really felt like he meant it. Not a gee-whiz look at me, now I'm going to go backstage and say how fackin stupid people are, but a real and actual appreciation that he gets to do what he loves and that other people dig it. I really think he was sincere, and he spoke earnestly. Plus - he had no shirt on for the encore. Kudos, Jen, the man is ripped. He closed the show with "Say what you need to say" which is a big theme song in my life right now. I am a huge music lover, and also a devourer of lyrics. This song matters to me. It made me actually contact M&B, instead of just thinking about it. It makes me tell my parents I love them a lot more than I did before. It's making me think about telling a lot of people a lot of things. Plus, I sound g o o d singing along with this one.

Maybe next week

Last night I purchased a wireless router. I walked into the local chain store that rhymes with Test Guy. I went to the computer section, and showed nerdy nerd the text from super awesome step-bro that said Linksys somethin-or-other. I said "Please?". Nerdy nerd puffed up his scrawny chest and walked my damsel in distress ass over to the right thing-a-ma-jig. It was on sale. SO. I know own a wireless router. It's in it's box. In a bag. On my kitchen table. This thing will someday give me back my internet. This thing will someday give me back my blog. We wait. This weekend AG and MenD will be in town. I'm pretty darn excited. Charlie, however, is not so sure about sharing his space. They'll both be sleeping in "his" room.

Bad news Monday

So, the evil landpeople said "Absolutely no way" will I have internet this week. Which means maybe never. I refuse to write this blog on their computer, or anyone else's. That's not how I roll. I do have to take MenD to Starbucks so he can go online this weekend. Perhaps then. Until then..... Big fackin' sigh.

Still.....or again....who knows

SO, still or again, no facking internet at home. Quick recap of my second weekend in the NOrth Woods. It's all about the wildlife. We saw: A bald eagle (AWESOME!!) A skunk A porcupine (we saved it's life. It was the cutest non-cartoon animal EVER) A pair of loons (the real kind, not freaky people) A kingfisher (I'm usually not a bird fan, but this thing was TheAwesome!) Ok, I'm off to harrass and whine at my landtyrants for the millionth facking time. Sigh. AG and MenD are coming to Chicago to tear up the town with me, Shannon, and TheMarty this weekend. Chicago can't handle the truth. *Revision: I did NOT see a kingfisher. I saw a Blue Heron (or Herring) it was huge and still TheAwesome! **Still no internet at home.

Back to the Woods

My internet at home is not working. A G A I N. I intended to write a post about the John Mayer concert I went to. I intend to still do that. Hopefully next week. I am going back up to Wisconsin in a few hours. Another 6 hour drive. Should be a good trip, just not looking forward to getting back in a car for that long. Tonya did say I get 5 vetos for songs. That should help. Instead of posting the list of songs on the Best of Cheese CD, I've decided that will be the next Name that Tune game. There will be prizes. Just ask BP, Brando and Zelmo about my prize giving abilities. Have a great weekend.

So I slept under a strange man for three nights

Our trip to TheMarty's beautiful North Woods cabin was incredibly perfect and fantastic. The theme sone for the weekend for me was "Sailing" by Christopher Cross. There were many games played: Charades - my favorite one that I got was Man Boobs, and my favorite of all was Daisy Chain - Yahtzee, Hoopla, Catch Phrase (during which I was named "flinchy". This game got heated. Team Wang is a bunch of fierce competitors), and a fun game called Munchkin Fu (which kept us up on the last night until 2:30 am and we got about four hours of sleep before heading home). I go-go danced on the boat to a song that Hil picked out just for that purpose. We were in the middle of a lovely lake when I did it. TheMarty peed off the back of the boat. All of the sudden we hear him say "No! Don't look back!" He was talking to the poor sweet old lady that he was in the process of showing his junk too. She should have never looked back, I blame her. I did indeed sleep under a strange man. Or a normal(ish) man who was a stranger. In A Bunk Bed. (Dirty. Your minds are all drrrrty.) Eric is his name and he is awesome. I also heart my other roomates Lauren and Greg. A lot. Not one of them ever mentioned my snoring. Hil and Dave are extremely fun people. I would have totally hid in their luggage and let them spirit me away to live with them in Boston. I already miss my new friends from Boston. Slow single tear. A moment of silence for the lovely bottle of Petron that was sacrificed for our complete and total merriment. MMmmmmm. Leinenkugel's, Coronas, Freedom drinks, Heineken's, 3 Buck Chuck, Stoli cranberry and Bacardi kept us hydrated from noonish until bedtime every day. I think my liver is tired. Any trip in which "A dingo ate your baby" is a catch phrase is an awesome trip. I've learned to never 'take it outside' with someone I don't know. Who knew Dave had wrestled in school? Oh, that's right - everyone did but me. I got one hell of a spanking. "HellNight" is a fantastically bad horror movie. Linda Blair is in it. I haven't laughed so much and so long probably ever. So, since we didn't get those cheesy plastic covered autograph books for everyone to sign, I'm taking a moment to send shouts out to my fellow Wisconsin travelers: THeMarty: He invited me along on this special trip, and was a wonderful host. He loves it there, and really wanted to share it all with everyone, which was awesome. Shannon: A fantastic cook, marathon driver, and keeper of my best stories and secrets. Like the palm-reader said about 8 1/2 years ago, we were meant to know each other, and be important in each other's lives. Dave: Funny as hell. Kicked my ass. Also the only other person I know who has seen and appreciated "Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill!" (best murderous go-go dancer movie EVEH) Hilary: A kindred spirit. Whip smart and lightning quick with the comebacks. Most contagious awesome laugh. Lauren: Owner of the cutest t-shirts I've seen in a long time. Wicked awesome hair (I'd kill for hair like that). Funny and smart - knows more about books and authors than anyone I know. Greg: I wouldn't want to start a fire with anyone else. Has great taste in music and is awesomely chill. Eric (my bunkmate): Quick with fantastic one-liners, very entertaining. Wears a broken straw hat with mad style. There was much mirth, mayhem and shenanigans. I speak in generalities as whatever happens in Three Lakes should probably stay in Three Lakes. I am totally inviting myself on Shannon and TheMarty's trip to see them all in October.

Post pending

Weekend review is coming. Promise. Trying to put teh awesome to words....

Couple of thoughts

First of all, I had some fun on Thursday. I had a few errands to do after work. I am in an incredibly good mood, so I kinda went everywhere with a grin on my face. Ok, it may have been smirk-ish. But definitely a smile type thing. People really do look at you like you have a secret when you walk around with a smile on your face. I'm going to try it more often. Not because I'll be happier more often, more to watch the reactions of others. Secondly, one of my errands tonight was to get a pedicure. I was feeling very happy. And very daring. My toes are a color called Just Groovy. It's a lovely bright sky blue. Hell yes. Next, a pet peeve of mine came to light today from an unexpected source. Let me just say this: I will have intelligent conversation with just about anyone about just about anything. HOWEVER. Please know what the fack you are talking about. It's cool to have a difference of opinion - keeps things interesting. BUT you need to have an informed opinion. Please don't just spit at me this morning's biased headlines (often inaccurate, as was the case with today's conversation). If you feel strongly about something, care enough about it to do a little research. Don't just spout off some b.s. soundbite you heard somewhere. I expect people to be able to back up what they are saying. Finally, in about 24 hours I am off on a North Woods vacation with two of my most favorite people (duh, Shannon and TheMarty) and 5 of his closest friends. 5 complete strangers. I am excited and a little nervous. I know for a fact I won't be able to sleep tonight. Which is good, because I am being picked up to start this little adventure at an un-Godly hour.

No blog for you

I didn't have time to write a "real" entry for today. Too busy burning the CDs I need for my new friends this weekend. See, 8 people going to the North Woods and we are supposed to bring something for everyone. I created a masterful CD entitled "The Best of.....Cheese". Next week I'll post the songs that are on it. I want it to be a surprise for those getting a copy first. Have a nice day.

SO Happy

Just checked my hotmail. Just got an email from M. From Haiti. He's back in the states at the end of the month and promises to get in touch. I am so happy!

The Question

Today's question for TheMarty: How did you get so awesome? Happy happy birthday. I love ya in a completely non-sexual way.

Delay due to hangover

AKA: 24 Welshman I wanted to kidnap. Whew. What a weekend. It's Monday evening, about 7pm, and this is the first moment I have felt well enough to even switch on my computer. Friday night was SIL1X's dad's surprise birthday party. Good times. Saturday and Sunday I worked at the Folk and Roots festival. Saturday I helped out in the VIP tent, which meant sit there and drink some beer and circle names on a list. The bands were great, I highly recommend some Slavic Soul Party. Not kidding. I headed back stage to hang out with my friends. It was there that I happened to meet some of my new favorite people, the Burlington Welsh Mens Choir. Cuter awesomer thirstier whiter-haired men I will never meet again. Being around these geriatric charmers had me saying "It'll be a great night if I can get 26 Welshmen sleeping on my living room floor tonight!". Loved them. They had performed with Jon Langford, and unfortunately I missed their performance. I got my drink on backstage, and had a great night. Sunday morning I was totally paying for Saturday night's good time. I barely got off the couch in time to get myself back to the fest. I started out the day really well, I drank mostly water. Sunday I was working backstage, serving beer to the artists and staff. All weekend, I had wanted to meet Jon Langford, but was uncharacteristically shy for some reason. I'll blame the hangover. Anyway. I was talking to my friend Sarah, and Jon was right next to her. I said "That's Jon Langford, isn't it?" and Sarah (in her infinite awesomeness) introduced me to him. He was really cool, just a nice chatty normal guy. I love Old Town and Folk and Roots because of people like Jon. Everyone is just so nice and chill. I chatted with Jon for a little bit and got back to work. Sunday's job had me working for T. T is awesome. She's one of my favorite people over at Old Town. I really like her, and it was good to work with her so we could hang out. So, Sunday night I got pretty tired, and I was sober, so D and I decided not to hang out, and we walked over to the bus stop. Welllll - the bus stop happens to be next to my favorite bar. Well, some of my friends were there. Well. 3:30 am came pretty fast. I was SMASHED. I can state for a fact I had 3 shots of Jameson, 2 of Petron, and (ahem) a few Blue Moons. I do remember taking a cab home. Beyond that things get a little fuzzy. Ok, a lot fuzzy. I found out this morning that I sent Shannon a 3am text message. I believe it was 'GO9'. Yeah, not a clue what it means. I also ended up in my sister's bathroom upstairs around 5:45 this morning. So I am told. I guess I had a nice little drunken sleepwalking thing going on. Good thing I had planned to be off work today.

Nostalgia and reminisence

I have been feeling incredibly nostalgic lately. It's gone kinda like this - I'll randomly have a dream about some guy from my past. It's always a very vivid, odd dream (minds out of the gutter, friends!) and it stays with me for the whole day, sometimes longer. Then, I think about the person in the dream for days on end. There's one guy I'm pining for because of these stupid dreams, but I won't be writing about him. At least, not today. So, last night I have a whole new dream, and another big wave of nostalgia. I've been grinning all day remembering these two. Yep, I said TWO. Twins, actually. Back in the day I was awesome enough to have had flings with a set of twins. Here, we will call them M & B. Some back story: I met M & B at a fine arts camp I went to. Best. Camp. Ever. I hit it off with M & B right away. As the oldest group of campers both boys and girls shared a unit, and we all did all of our activities together, and hung out at night. I went to that camp each summer for three years. I had a huge crush on B for a long, long time. He was one of the first guys I kissed. He was also my junior prom date. Every summer at camp we had to do a talent show. My second summer B organized all of the older boys and they sang a song to me. The boys were all up on the stage, and B said "Von, This one's for you." and they proceeded to sing to me. I was so the envy of every girl at that camp!! At some point (much later down the road) I had a crush on M. What never turned into a defined "relationship" was still something unique and meaningful at the time. I don't know how we managed it, but B was totally fine with it, and we were still all good friends. My friend Laura and I spent a lot of time with M & B for a while. One of my favorite memories is hanging out at M & B's with Laura. We drank coffee that M called orgasmic coffee. (This was before Starbucks was all cool and everywhere, so awesome coffee was a pretty cool thing) I think that night Laura and B actually sang for us. Laura being a mezzo-soprano with years of training, and B being a tenor, with years of training. I remember feeling so grown-up and content. I remember hoping that my evenings as an adult were as awesome as this one was. Good coffee, fantastic music, sexual tension..... I don't really remember why I lost touch with M & B. I vaguely remember M moving away when he transferred colleges, and he definitely took a little piece of my heart with him. About the same time, B was busy with his life, he was seeing someone seriously, and was pursuing his greatest passion - singing Opera. I hadn't thought about them in years, quite honestly. Then, that stupid dream last night that they were both in (AGAIN, minds out of the gutter). So, of course, I googled them (God bless the Internet!!) Holy Shit. M is now DR. M and a professor of anthropology at a very respectable university. He's kinda far away. B is a professional opera singer. He's living his dream, and sharing his incredible talent with the world. And as far as I can tell, he's still living in the Chicago suburbs. I totally dug a little deeper and found some email addresses for them. I don't know if they are even good, current addresses for them, but I sent them both emails. I think life is too short that if you want to reconnect with someone, there's no time like the present. I have nothing to lose really. Fingers crossed I'll hear from at least one of them. I'd love to tell them how they made me grin like a 14 year old for an entire day without even trying.

Winners All

And the winners are: First Place: Billy Pilgrim with 11 correct Second Place: Brando Third Place: Zelmo Please get in touch w/ me so I can send you your prizes. BP, if you are coming to Chicago in August with AG and MenD, your prize can be 3 beers payed for by me!! If you are not coming, I'll figure something else out. Brando - you have won a Starbucks gift card!! You might need it, with Libby keeping you up and all.... Zelmo - You have won a lovely Chicago knick knack!! Now, help me figure out how to get your info to send you prizes?

Call and Answer

So, there are only 3 remaining songs that were not guessed. They are: #4 "God Bless the USA" by Lee Greenwood #7 "Kids in America" by Kim Wilde #14 "What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye There were also two themes. The first was: Songs with USA or America in the title. The second: Anti-war songs. (Yes, "What's Going On" is absolutely an anti-war song, I looked it up) So, It's my contest, and my rules. What I'm going to do is this. There will be prizes for first, second, and third place. First place goes to commentor who had the most correct guesses. Second and third prizes will be determined by names drawn out of a hat. Winners will be posted later today. Thanks for the awesome responses!! I am going to keep running a Name that Tune every so often.

Okey dokey weekend.

Why do the long weekends go by so damned fast?? It was a good weekend, more or less. It was a little more quiet than I would have liked it to be, but not shabby. On the Fourth I went to my parents' neighborhood for the "big" parade. It was interesting. I always see a lot of people I grow up with. Some I'd rather not see, but whatever. I made a stop over by SIL1X's house to visit with her and her family. After that I went to my stepbro's house. There was a ton of food, lots of drinking and some Texas hold 'em. Good times. I had to go home pretty early because Charlie doesn't like the fireworks, so I had to take care of him. Saturday I called up Tonya at the last minute. We went to play miniature golf first, and then went to the h o r r i b l e Cheeseburger in Paradise. We went to have some chocolate nachos. We ended up sitting in the bar area, and there was a pretty interesting group of people sitting at the bar. They seemed to be regulars there. Now, I have a bar that I frequent, where most of the people who work there do know my name, but it's definitely not a bad chain restaurant with a tiki from hell theme and overpriced crappy tropical beverages. We could not stop watching them, they were fascinating in all of their white trash splendor. From there we went to this scary little dive bar in the middle of the woods somewhere. Ok, the woods of Des Plaines, but the woods no less. There was a lovely couple sitting next to us. He had long stringy blond hair and missing teeth. She had a matching mullet and a really awesome smoker's voice. She was also quite a bit older than him. There was a third woman with them. A fatty who thinks it's a good idea to wear a tank top. Bleh. Anyway, the fatty went to leave and mullet man walked her out while his old hag girlfriend stayed at the bar. I told Tonya "Oh, they for sure are making out!" Tonya agreed. An interesting cast of characters came and went throughout our few beers. Not long before we were getting ready to go, Serial Killer dude walked in. He stood directly across from us at the bar. He never sat down. He had a beer, and just stood there and kinda stared at us. I never finished a beer so fast in my life. Serial Killer man left, and we hauled ass out the door. We jumped in her car and left. Well, being that we were in the middle of the dark woods, we convinced ourselves that Serial Killer man was following us. We turned the wrong way on purpose. Tonya dropped me off at my car and I sped away, back to the safety of Chicago. Sunday was a day of rest, much needed.

Name that Tune, this time a theme or two

So, I'm sure none of you are really working on Thursday. So, for your distraction, Name that Tune, again. This time around, there's a theme. Ok, there's two. There are also two songs that are specifically for two people (I'm looking at you, BP and TheMarty). All are welcome to play, even my Canadian friends ;). Rules: Again, there are none. Just please don't cheat. I will admit this time I had to get some Google help, but that was due to the theme, and the request for longer lyrics. A refresher: There are twenty song lyrics. Try to name the title and the artist. Bonus round: Name the two themes. If all 20 songs are named, there will be valuable prizes. Answers will be posted sometime next week. Play on, players:

1. Far - We've been traveling far - without a home - but not without a star
2. Devil without a cause - and I'm back with the beaver hats - and Ben Davis slacks - Thirty pack of Stroh's
3. It's just a small step for him - It's a nice break from Vietnam (filmed in a factory)
4. If tomorrow all the things were gone - I've worked for all my life - And I had to start again - with just my children and my wife
5. Come back home to the refinery - Hiring man says "Son if it were up to me" - I go down to see the VA man - He says "Son don't you understand"
6. Terrorists your game is through - 'Cause now you have to answer to - America, Fuck yeah
7. Bright lights - the music gets faster - look boy don't check your watch - not another glance
8. Colored lights can hypnotize - sparkle someone else's eyes - now woman, I said get away
9. Laughing on the bus - playing games with the faces - she said the man in the gabardine suit was a spy
10. I can't see myself at thirty - I don't buy a lacquered thirty - caught like flies - preserved for tomorrow's jewelry again
11. Yankee dollar talk - to the dictators of the world - In fact it's giving orders - and they can't afford to miss a word
12. As I was walking a ribbon of highway - I saw above me an endless sky - I saw below me a golden valley - This land was made for you and me
13. Oh I've been smiling lately - dreaming about the world as one - and I believe it could be - some day it's going to come
14. You see, war is not the answer - for only love can conquer hate - you know we've got to find a way - to bring some lovin' here today
15. Tell us commander, what do you think? - 'Cos we know that you love all that power - Is it on then, are we on the brink? We wish you'd all throw in the towel
16. How many times must a man look up - before he can see the sky? - Yes 'n' how many ears must one man have - before he can hear people cry?
17. In the locust wind comes a rattle and hum - Jacob wrestled the angel - and the angel was overcome - you plant a demon seed
18. 99 dreams I have had - in every one a red balloon - It's all over and I'm standing pretty
19. It's just a rumor that was spread around town - a telegram or a picture postcard - within weeks they'll be reopening the shipyards
20. How can you say - no child is left behind? - we're not dumb and we're not blind - they're all sitting in your cells

I'm no hypocrite

Because Julia called me out on this: There was another Crosstown Classic this past weekend, whilst I was in MI. The White Sox swept the Cubs. That's one way to look at it. Another: Between the six games played between these two Chicago teams, an even split. I'm saying it now: See you in October, South Side. (I myself will be far far away from Chicago should that happen. The city will Implode.)

I'm Baaaaccccckkkkk

Hopefully for good! Got home, and the internet is being good to me today. Hopefully that will last. Best. Weekend. Ever. Shannon, TheMarty and I had a great weekend in MI. Good times. I have a photo or two that my very tired ass will upload for you later in the week. There are so many great quotes, and great moments, as there always is when in MI. A sampling: "I WILL eat Martian asparagus before I die." (OPB, in the car, on our way) "It's Ok. My toes are in the cool waters of Tahiti." (OPB, in the car on the way home) Followed by: "Yeah, well my ass is firmly planted in the Sahara."(Shannon, awesomely voicing her displeasure at the leather seats in the car. And, finally, one of my own: "Well, this blows fainting goats." I may or may not provide additional quotes. I didn't have my little notebook handy at every moment (though I should have, there were some classic lines), and there was quite a bit of drinking. God bless Freedom Juice. Have Shannon make you one or three sometime - it's masterful. Anyway. Weather was mostly awesome. Shannon and Marty picked me up at work at noon on Friday from work. TheMarty had requested that I stand on the curb, thumb extended, much like the hitchhiker I was. I so totally did. Got to MI no problems. Boat ride. Uno. Awesome. Saturday was a beautiful day. After some breakfast shinanigans at Cracker Barrel we went out on the lake. I had my first ride as a passenger on Shannon's wave rider thing. She's a good driver. I trusted her, literally, with my life. We ran into some nastiness in the form of choppy water and bad juju from a speed boat with a waterskier on back. I was SURE we were going to fall off, but I had the death grip and Shannon handled it, so no problems. The problem occured when we tried to dock the damn thing. We were in the right place, but no clue as to what to do once we got there. So, we waved our hands at neighbor Dave until he came out, laughing, to assist. His sage advice to us was: "Well, just keep going til you run out of gas, you'll drift to someone's house." That said he then helped us out of the water. Then more drinking and Phase 10. Sunday bad weather, bad movie. We went to see The Happening. To that I say Meh. Drinking, game playing, you get the drift by now. Monday, sadly, it was time to come home. TheMarty forced me to listen to some comedian, David somethingorother Cross maybe? I'm glad he did - David whatever is a funny funny guy. There may be more on this trip topic later this week. I'm exhausted, and it's back to work tomorrow. Ahhh - it's good to be back~!

An update

But let's not hold our breath. Landoverlord (aka VonBroinlaw) hinted at getting me my very own internet connection last night. At 8:30. While I was packing. I asked VonSis if it could be put off by, like, a day as I was busy at it was late. It has been put off. One would hope while I am in Michigan VBIL gets it all squared away. Have a great weekend. Come hell or high water next week there will be another Name that Tune. Nothing says Independence like Name that Tune.

Giving up for the week

Still no internet. About to send a nice yet stern email to my landpeople. I'm threatening them with an infiltration of one of my techie brothers to fix it. That Might get them to act. We'll see. I'm out of town this weekend with OPB and Shannon. Should have something to talk about next week. If. If I have internet. Meh.

Still Nada

I'm guessing I still don't have internet at home. I didn't check last night, because I was busy having awesome dinner at Feed with my most favorite cousin Jyl. A dinner at which I told her I have a blog. HI JYL. So, real quick - every day I walk over to get my free RedEye newspaper at work. Every day I have a little giggle. See, some smooth operator with an exacto knife or somethin' change the word "Free" on the side of the paper dispenser thingy to "I Pee" I don't know why this is funny every freaking day, but it is. Fingers crosses I'll have internet soon.

Oh, and regarding the Crosstown....

In case any of my out-of-town friends wanted to know: The Chicago Cubs S W E P T the Chicago White Sux over the weekend. SWEPT. They play each other again this weekend. I will be out of town. With a bunch of south siders. Fingers crossed the Cubbies will sweep again!

Still broken

HOme internets still broken. LOve job too much to blog at work. MenD has admitted to being the cause of the problem. Again, stay tuned. S I G H

Internet broken

My internet at home is broken. Will blog again when able. Stay Tuned..... GOing to email landlord Right NOw to gently suggest he fix the internets...... AAARRRRGGGGHHHH

God Bless Summer Fridays

No post you say? Expectations you say? I was going to give myself the day off after winning the pretigious MenD award, but fine. Ask and you shall receive.

Here's what I'm doing right now:

Because my man (Lou P!!!) is on my t.v. It's the Crosstown Classic. Series 1. Game 1 bitches. What else would I be doing at 2pm on a Friday afternoon?

And I think I just might paint my nails.

Yes, this pictures is just for the ladies. A salon you say? Oh, no grasshopper. This cabinet of OPI, Essie, Orly, Ulta fantasticness is in my house. Where mere humans keep stuff like aspirin and condoms, I keep about 50 + bottles of nailpolish. In some ways I am such a girl.

F*CK

Double play White Sux. End of the second inning tied at one.

Time to crack another beer.

I freakin' love summer Fridays.

Go Cubs Go.

Eh.

I am beginning to become one of those women who doesn't like other women. My teenage years into my twenties, I had pretty even numbers of male and female friends. I still have lots of female friends. I am just starting to not be able to stand other women. Stranger Danger women. Like the other night when Shannon and I went to the movies. I knew that given the movie we were seeing the theatre was bound to be full of women. I had hoped they'd be normal grown-up behaving women. Not the up-talking dipshits that called out what would happen next, or turn to their friend and say "Oh my God! Did you see that?!?!" Of course they did. They are sitting right next to you. Most of the 27th floor people that make me throw up in my mouth are women. Hate them. Yesterday I was feeling a little cranky, so decided to get a slice of pizza for lunch. I was in line and had two evil little bitches behind me. Again, up-talkers. Do they teach this bad habit in college now-a-days? Anyway, the silly little up-talkers were loudly discussing how the one had slammed some dude. She peppered the end of every sentence with "DoyaknowwhatImean?" Forcing her friend to acknowledge. "yeah" "um-hm""OhmyGod". They went on and on and on about this dude and his Facebook friends. It was all I could do not to trip them on my way out. Then, there's Curves. Aarrgh. Now, I love Curves. But, mine closed, and now I have to go to this other stupid one. I'm done being nice to these dumb bitches. A) They are mostly easily 20 years older than me B) I played nice and made pals with the ones at my old Curves, then they close it, so I'm just not going to bother at this one. Anyway. I have to see some of the same stupid women every time I go in there. They give me that half smile, then try to make eye contact. They shouldn't bother, I've got the avoidance thing down. But, there's this one lady and she just annoys the f*ck out of me. She really goes there to get her chatty catty bitch on, not to actually exercise. Her voice is like nails on a chalkboard. She will do about 1/2 of a machine and then start talking to the worker lady and sit there. Then, instead of doing the cardio station she'll stand there talking. She's also one of those women who, when she thinks she's said something smart or funny, she looks around to see if everyone else is reacting to her. I've just starting staring at her with a blatant look of disgust on my face. I'm trying to bait her into a confrontation. She stands there and complains how she's fat, and not getting anywhere, and I want to tell her all of the reasons why that is so. I have never been one of those women who says they don't like women, have more guy friends, blah, blah, blah. I think a lot of those chicks do that to try to show others that they are cool and edgy. Um, not so much. I'm also not saying that I will never make new female friends. The criteria has just changed. Like, NO up-talking. See, if you do that, it's not just that I will never be your friend, because I won't, but I might also staple your mouth shut.

Really Great Weekend.

Finally!! I had a great weekend. No sleep, like, at all, but a great weekend. Friday night I went to Pirate Wench's house. She has a movie night about once a month. I've never been able to make it before, so Friday was my first time. I got there right on time, and it ended up being me, PW, and three of her very funny friends. We had warmed brie with cherry chutney, quiche, veggies and good conversation. We went downstairs to start our fantastic film of the evening - "High School Musical". The things these chicks were saying!! I was laughing so much and so hard, I could barely catch my breath! About half way through the movie, PW said "Time for dessert" Um, what?? We paused the movie and PW brought us all Ho-Ho ice cream. You heard me - smooshed up ho-hos, frozen in vanilla ice cream, with hot fudge sauce. I wanted to stay there forever. The women were awesome, and I had a great time. I did make the mistake of laughing at my own jokes at least twice. I blame laughing so much the entire evening. I came home fairly early, and my sister and her husband were sitting in the yard. I went to join them for a while. It was all nice, and warm, and the chandelier and the white lights were all on, it was awesome. Saturday I had to be up at the ass-crack of dawn to pick up Siobhan to take her to VonParents' neighborhood garage sale. It's pretty cool. The entire neighborhood has garage sales on this one weekend every year. I think there was 48 houses this year. We ended up with a large group going around together. I'm super pissed that I didn't see my ex pull up and go into his parents' house. Laura saw him, but didn't tell me until it was too late. Damn it. Damn her. After a few hours and some bucks spent, I took Siobhan home. Saturday night Shannon and I went to see Sex and the City. Good movie, evil stupid crowd. Shannon didn't hear a lot of the mumblings around us, but there were a couple of gaggles of stupid chicks who talked a lot during the movie. I was complaining to Shannon about it afterwards, and she said "I didn't hear that, but I did hear to tell some people to shut up." Yeah, I did. I didn't pay good $$ for some dumb bitches to run commentary, and predict what happens next. Dude - It's Sex and the City, it ain't rocket science. Anyway, I really liked the movie, more that I thought I would. The only thing was I felt Jennifer Hudson's charecter was completely unnecessary. I like her, but I just feel she didn't really need to be there. After the movie we walked over to one of my favorite bars, one that we had frequented a lot not too long ago. We had *ahem* a few beers and good conversation. There were a couple of our famous other-people-turn-and-look laughes. Our friend Tim was working a private party upstairs at the bar, and he joined us a little after one. Then, there was some more beer, and some Jameson.......well, then I remember the bar closed around 2:30, and Shannon and I left aroudn 4:00 (it's good to know the guys that work there....) It was perfect. It was exactly what I needed. 5 hours of sleep later it was time to celebrate Father's Day. Great weekend, to the point where I don't even mind how tired I am.

Happy Father's Day (early)

Most of the time, I use this blog to bitch, vent, amuse. Today, shaking it up just a bit. Today I want to write about someone I am grateful for. This past Monday was my dad's birthday. He's 68 now. This year, I will be half his age. This will be the only time in our lives that this will happen. I am so incredibly grateful for my dad. Something most of you do not know. My dad is technically not my father. Not biologically. He's my step-dad, but to me, he's dad, father, everything. My dad is a master pool player. He runs a league or two, and is always being asked to play with other people. He even took the time to teach me how to play properly, so I wouldn't make an ass out of myself at the pool hall. My dad is father to seven incredibly different children. Each and every one of us will tell you that we are dad's favorite, and believe that with our whole heart. He's that good at making each one of us feel special. My dad is an engineer. Early in his life he wanted to be a teacher. Life took him in a different direction. He is smart, creative, and always learning. A typical dinner while we were growing up would involve dad saying "look it up in the dictionary", and we did, in the middle of dinner. He took pride in everything we learned, and I think he learned from us and still does. My dad is a jokester. During my pre-teen years VonSis and I were watching the horribly bad horror movie "The Stepfather". Unbeknownst to us, dad had caught a few scenes and was amused by the premise of the murderous step-father. During a really quiet, dark part of the movie dad came up behind us with a chainsaw and yelled "What are you two doing!?!?!?" It scared the shit out of us. He thought it was hilarious. He still does. Tell that story and he will grin and chuckle. He knows 400 jokes, and can deadpan a punchline like no one I know. My friends love my dad. They think he's cool. I realize that they are right. There's not a party or bbq that I throw that I don't invite my parents. My dad has opinions. Strong ones I'm sure. But he's raised us in the 'whatever doesn't kill ya makes you stronger' way. Every decision I make on my own. He supports and praises the good ones, and is there to pick me up and brush the dust off me after the not so good ones. He raised us and sent us on our way, to find our own path - even when that path is up-hill and covered in brambles. I don't remember exactly when I realized that my dad sees me as an adult. I'm tearing up just thinking about when I saw that our relationship had shifted. We have real and actual conversations. We debate sometimes. He will smile, yet defend his opinion. Even though he doesn't agree with mine, he's smiling because I have one, and it's well formed. We talk about the Cubs. Just last night he was working on a crossword puzzle. VonMom said "Ask Von, she knows a lot of things." Dad didn't at first, but then "What's this? What's that?" and I knew the answers. It was a small moment, but I was so happy because he asked me, confident that I 'know things'. My dad is one of my most favorite people. I keep trying to impress him, even though I know he needs no convincing that I'm pretty awesome. I think he knows he raised me right. Out of his seven kids, I'm the only one who smoked. When I quit, he was so proud. He still tells me how proud he is of that. It's a great motivator to stay quit. I'm also the only one with tattoos. I was terrified to show him them. I remember right after I got my first one (which I was hiding), a friend of mine got one and my dad found out. He said "NO child of mine living under my roof will ever have a tattoo!" while I was sitting there hiding my own still oozing first tattoo. When I finally showed him, he shrugged. He looked at one and said "I really like that one! That's cool!" Now, every time he sees it he says "Oh yeah, I like that one!" I was the problem child, I still might be. But I know he loves me. He tells me that he does, and he shows me that he does. I know deep down that he has always been my father, and I also happen to know that I am his favorite. :)

Looking for a new place?

Public Service Announcement: (ok, VonSis asked me to put this out there) Looking for a FANTASTIC apartment in Chicago? How does 11 foot ceilings sound? What about a private yard with deck? Two bedroom apartment will be available 8/1/08. Free heat. Free Wireless. Free laundry. (yeah, you heard me) Open floor plan, lots of room. Oh, and the best dog on earth lives in the building, you can borrow him. Did I mention I live in the building? Close to Jefferson Park (metra/cta) and expressways. Rent very reasonable. NO joke. Comment me if you're interested. Pass it on.

More people I don't like

I have a little bit of bad karma going on right now. I don't know why, I really don't. I just know that karma has been biting me in the ass during my work day more often than not. See, there's these people. They work on the 27th Floor of my building. Hence, I call them the 27th Floor people. Sometimes, they are also called the 12-year olds. The 27s are all about, well, 12 years old. The women are all blonde up-talkers, the boys are just that, boys. They say really lame things, and see-saw between sounding gay, and sounding fratish. It's gotten to the point where I just know them by sight. Plenty of mornings one of them gets on the elevator, and I just want to hit '27' for them, I am so sure I know where they are going. These people annoy the fack out of me. They also travel in packs. The other day I had another run in will a gaggle of them. I was bringing my lunch back to my office. I was waiting with 2 normal grown-up people, and 2 27s. One male, one female. They each had a large box from Jimmy John's. Whatever. We all continued to wait for the elevator. Then, out of NOWHERE arrived 6 more of them!! The girls were all 'Oh! What is that? What's in the boxes?' Ok, like they even ever eat food. They're all like a size 1.5, bleh. The girl with the box said 'Oh, you know, sammies (who SAYS that?!?), chips, and pickles' The others weren't really listening, probably distracted by something shiny, gave her a blank stare. One of them said 'Pickles?' At which point (I couldn't help it, at all) under my breath I said 'and pickles, and pickles, and pickles....' (OK, big Dane Cook before he went totally lame reference. Seriously funny shit) and I kinda laughed to myself. Now, they are even more afraid of me. The elevator comes. Are the boys decent, and let those of us who were waiting l o n g e r just have the elevator? Oh, noes. We ALL get on the same stupid elevator. One of the 27s said 'Oh, isn't this cozy? tee hee?' I said 'Yeah, Um, NO' nice and loud. We couldn't get to 27 fast enough. Me, I'm past 27. Hate them. Now, every time I'm on the elevator, there's at least one of them. I'm perfecting my 'don't even look at me' glare. Karma. I was able to avoid them most of the time for almost a year. Now, every time. I'm telling you - karma.