2011 Year in Review

1. What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?

Moved far away from home for the first time in my life. Moving with my family when I was six doesn’t count.

2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I don’t think I made any particular resolutions, though my general goal was to have a library job for the 2011-2012 school year. Though I didn’t get the job that I originally planned to have, I did get a job and am happy where I am.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

My cousin’s wife had a baby, but we’re not particularly close – but that’s the only baby I can think of.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Thankfully, no.

5. What countries did you visit?

No countries again – but I have hope that I will some day.

6. What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?

I think I would simply like to make more new friends here in San Antonio. I had several wonderful friends back home, but making new friends here has been somewhat of a challenge.

7. What date from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

I can’t remember the exact date – around the end of June when I was offered a librarian job in San Antonio.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Moving to San Antonio relatively unscathed and starting my career has a librarian.

9. What was your biggest failure?

I don’t know that anything was really a failure this year – but probably the fact that I gave up on the yearbook and had to have the new adviser finish it for me.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Nothing major – typical colds, allergies and such. Lots of bumps and bruises from moving and delivering textbooks.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

My new furniture for my house.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

Josh still amazes me – he is doing so well in school and bravely venturing to Tasmania.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

Nobody that I can think of – the sixth graders at the middle school have been trying though. They don’t seem capable of listening or following instructions and are obnoxious most of the time.

14. Where did most of your money go?

Paying for the move to San Antonio.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

My new job and going out on dates.

16. What song will always remind you of 2011?

“Changes” - seems this year was full of them!

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:

happier or sadder? Much happier in my job, but a little sad missing some friends.
- richer or poorer? Mostly the same. I make more money now, but I have more expenses here so it comes out about the same.
- thinner or fatter? Slightly fatter – gained about 3-4 pounds that I need to lose!

18. What do you wish you'd done more of?

Riding roller coasters and spending time with friends back in Canyon.

19. What do you wish you'd done less of?

As usual – worrying.

20. How did you spend the holidays?

New Years (2010) – with my friend Kirsten again. Valentine’s Day – alone. Easter – at Church with wonderful friends. 4^th of July – with friends. Thanksgiving – in Vegas with family. Christmas – here in SA without Josh for the first time, but with my new boyfriend, Matt, and his friends.

21. Did you fall in love in 2011?

No, but found a new boyfriend that I really like!

22. How many one-night stands?

None – but considered it with Marty at one point. Also had a single date with a guy from e-harmony that didn’t go anywhere.

23. What was your favorite TV program?

Probably re-runs of Monk and House Hunters.

24. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?

Nope, I’m a lover, not a hater.

25. What was the best book you read?

Probably the Lee Child books.

26. What was your favorite film of this year?

The Help.

27. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?

I still don’t have fashion sense and probably never will. I still wear lots of purple and got new purple Sketchers.

28. Whom did you miss?

All my friends back in Canyon/Amarillo, my fellow speech teachers, and my family that I didn’t get to see much of.

29. Who was the best new person you met?

My boyfriend, Matt.

30. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.

Sometimes you have to take risks to get what you want in life. Change can be a good thing. It is important to have a career that you enjoy.

Seven Things About Me

I was tagged by Abbagirl for this meme. I may have already done it in the past, but I can't find it so I'll try to come up with some answers that at least my new readers may not already know about me.

The "rules" for this meme are:
1) Link to the person who tagged you.
2) Post the rules on your blog.
3) Share 7 facts about yourself.
4) Tag 7 random people and include links to their blogs.
5) Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1. My favorite food is Spaghetti with meat sauce. It has been since I was a child and I never get tired of eating it. Of course I no longer eat it with my hands as I did as a child... but that might be fun.

2. I went to a taping of The Price is Right in hopes of becoming a contestant. It was an interesting experience filled with hope and then a total let down when you don't get called to "Come on Down" I'm glad I got to go before Bob Barker retired. It's just not the same with Drew Carey. At least they didn't give it to Rosie O'Donnell.

3. Most people are surprised to find out that I have a tattoo. I have a small Marvin the Martian on my shoulder blade on my back. I would like to get another tattoo on my ankle, but I haven't figured out what I really want (but something religious that represents my Catholic conversion). If I did get one on my ankle, I would have to cover it up when I wear a dress at school (which isn't very often). And yes, it did hurt.

4. One of my biggest pet peeves is people reading over my shoulder. I can't stand it when I'm trying to read a newspaper and they're reading the same thing and since I read fairly fast, they tell me to wait when I want to turn the page. I really don't read newspapers that much and then I only skim it... but it still bothers me.

5. I have a "thing" about memorizing numbers. I can remember all my phone numbers since 2nd grade. I know mine and Josh's driver's license and social security numbers along with my ex-husband's. I also still know birthdays of friends I had in junior high. I am a fountain of mostly useless information.

6. The only bones I've ever broken was when I broke my neck when I was four years old. I was hit by a car and I cracked two vertebra. Luckily my spinal cord was not affected (0bviously) and I eventually had surgery that fused them back together. I was donned the nickname of "steel neck" afterwards.

7. I am relatively shy. It is strange that I am a speech teacher and I teach others how to communicate. I'm not afraid of speaking in public or making presentations but I'm horrible at interpersonal communication with people I don't know. I think I do have a bit of social anxiety because I hate being in uncomfortable situations where I don't know what to say. I also hate doing business over the phone. I would rather do it in person.

8. Bonus - I love riding rollercoasters and have ridden about 125 different coasters to date. (It may be 124 - I need to check my count).

Well, that's it. My long time readers probably already know all of this. I'm a fairly open book on my blog.

I tag: Andrew, Summer, Susan, Terri, Cheryl, Leann, and Mago. (But no big deal if you don't want to play.)

Meme as Promised

I was tagged by Abbagirl so here we go with my answers.

1. What were you afraid of as a child?
I think I was afraid of the dark because I always needed a night light and music playing. Now I can't stand any kind of light (my alarm clock is too bright) and I can't listen to music as it will keep me awake.

2. When have you been most courageous?
I don't know. I don't ever think of myself as having ever been courageous. I guess maybe when I finally decided to get divorced.

3. What sound most disturbs you?
Nails on a chalkboard.

4. What is the greatest amount of pain you have been in?
Physical - childbirth, hands down. No drugs.

Emotional - One night in my marriage after having a fight with my husband. I truly can't describe the feeling, but I can tell you that I banged my head against the wall and threw canned goods because I was so angry, hurt and frustrated. I think that was the beginning of my depression that lasted another two years.

5. What's your biggest fear for your own children (or children in general if you don't have children of your own)?
That something will happen to him. That he will make the same mistakes I did. That he won't be successful.

6. What is the hardest physical challenge you have achieved?
Losing 30 pounds. I took a dance workout class for six weeks that didn't really push me, but I certainly felt it in my muscles.

7. Which do you prefer: Mountains or oceans/big water?
I love to view water. I don't know that I would want to live near either, however. I kind of like being land-locked and visiting other places. But I do get excited when I travel somewhere and can see water in the distance.

8. What is the one thing you do for yourself that helps you keep everything together?
I pray every morning. I continue to participate in music which is something I do simply because I love it.

9. Ever had a close relative or friend with cancer?
Yes, my mother died from lung cancer.

10. What are the things your friends count on you for?
An ear to listen. I tend to be pretty grounded. Sometimes I have worthy advice.

11. What is the best part about being in a committed relationship?
Knowing that you have someone that cares about you. Having someone to talk to.

12. What is the hardest part about being in a committed relationship?
Getting someone else to actually commit. Finding the the right one. Being able to communicate when you are in a relationship when you are from two different worlds.

13. Summer or Winter? Why?
Summer. No school. I hate being cold.

14. Have you ever been in a school yard fight? Why and what happened?
Not at school, but I did get in a fight with a girl in my neighborhood when I was in first grade. I don't remember the details. I pretty much kept to myself in school, was shy, and didn't cause any trouble.

15. Why blog?
Because I can't help it. Because it gives me friendship. Because it seems as though some people are interested in my ordinary life. Because I have always loved to write and I guess I'm addicted.

16. Did you learn about sex, and/or sex safety from your parents?
Are you kidding? No. Friends, books, and experience.

17. How do you plan to talk to your kids about sex, and/or sex safety?
Josh knows what he needs to know.

18. What are you most thankful for this year?
That I am blessed even when I loudly complain about my life. That I have an amazing son, a good job, a home, and paid bills. I am thankful that I have a Church that helps build me up. I am thankful that God is present in my life and continues to bless me even when I am most undeserving.

Tag yourself if you are so inclined to do this meme.

100 things (updated)

I've done this before, but am posting again with some updates.

1. I am 37
2. I am divorced
3. I was married for five years
4. I had the marriage annulled by the Catholic Church.
5. I have a tattoo
6. I love to ride rollercoasters
7. I'm a member of American Coaster Enthusiasts
8. My favorite coaster is Poltergeist at Fiesta Texas
9. I've ridden 124 rollercoasters
10. I collect Marvin the Martian items
11. I broke my neck when I was 4 yrs old
12. I was hit by a car
13. I've had a total of 104 stitches in my life
14. I've been to a taping of The Price Is Right
15. I wasn't called to "Come on Down"
16. You can see me in the audience at least 4 times
17. I have 2 cats
18. I have 3 dogs
19. I play the clarinet
20. I was flag captain in high school and college
21. I went to band camp for 7 summers
22. I'm fascinated by the Titanic
23. I have a 16 yr old son
24. My son was born on my 21st birthday
25. I dream about tornadoes
26. But I like watching shows about tornadoes
27. I'm a native Texan
28. My favorite color is purple
29. I hate scary movies.
30. I hate most vegetables
31. I really hate beans
32. My favorite food is spaghetti
33. I like 80's music
34. My favorite singer is Olivia Newton John
35. My sign is Scorpio
36. I am a teacher
37. I teach high school speech
38. I used to sell yearbooks
39. But I hated selling
40. I've never been stung by a flying insect
41. I don't want to ever be stung
42. I have an older sister
43. I have an older brother
44. I am the baby of the family
45. I was in two musicals
46. But I can't sing
47. I like to read
48. My favorite authors are Janet Evanovich, Sue Grafton, and J.K. Rowling
49. When I was a kid I read the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew.
50. I used to go to the Baptist church
51. I've been to the Episcopalian church
52. I've been Baptized twice and "saved" on three occasions
53. I converted to the Catholic Church.
54. I believe in God
55. I love watching C.S.I. Vegas
56. And I love watching Monk
57. I graduated 16th in my high school class of 332
58. I graduated from West Texas A&M University in 1995
59. My GPA was a 3.82 (Magna Cum Laude)
60. I started out as a music major
61. I switched to Speech Education
62. I am shy
63. I've been to Vegas 4 times
64. I like going to museums
65. I like to do crossword puzzles
66. Nobody will play Scrabble with me
67. I've lost 25 pounds (and gained 10 back)
68. I want to lose at least 25 more
69. I flew to Michigan for a blind date
70. I wear contacts most of the time
71. I hate wearing panty hose
72. I am right handed
73. I believe in ghosts
74. I painted my kitchen Lime green
75. And I like it
76. I want to be on Trading Spaces and have my living room done
77. I like to dance
78. I wanted to be a choreographer when I grew up
79. My dream job is to be a music librarian
80. My dog, Roo, snores and it's annoying
81. I can be hypnotized
82. I've been hypnotized on stage
83. I can remember all my phone numbers from 2nd grade to the present
84. I have a "thing" about memorizing numbers
85. I also memorize birthdays
86. I want to go on a cruise some day
87. I won first place in poetry at my first speech tournament
88. I performed “Casey at the Bat” and still have it memorized
89. I have been to half of the states in the U.S.
90. I've been to the Caribbean
91. And Mexico
92. I know how to crochet.
93. I will be free of debt in 2 years.
94. I drive a Nissan Maxima
95. I hate doing laundry
96. And the dishes
97. I like to cook
98. I have neat handwriting
99. I like to sleep in
100. This was really hard

A-Z Meme

The A-Z List

1. A is for age: 37. I feel older some days and younger others.

2. B is for beer of choice: Ziegenbock (only made and sold in Texas)

3. C is for career right now: High School Speech teacher and Forensics Team coach

4. D is for your dog's name? Max, Roo, and Mollie. (I can't leave out the cats - Tecko and Lucy)

5. E is for essential item you use everyday: Email

6. F is for favorite TV show at the moment: Monk

7. G is for favorite game: Rollercoaster Tycoon (computer) and Scrabble (board)

8. H is for Hometown: Perryton, Texas (birthplace) but most of my life I have lived in Canyon, Texas.

9. I is for instruments you play: Clarinet, Contra-bass clarinet, flute, recorder

10: J is for favorite juice: Cran-grape

11. K is for whose butt you'd like to kick: I can't think of anyone at the moment... not even my ex-husbands old girlfriends.

12. L is for last place you ate: (out) Feldman's Wrongway Diner

13. M is for marriage: Once upon a time... hopefully again someday.

14. N is for your full name: Sorry... but you can have my online name... Annabel Lee

15. O is for overnight hospital stays: I don't remember how many days I was in the hospital when I broke my neck after being hit by a car.. but probably a couple of weeks. Then, two days when Josh was born. Last was when I had a reaction to Eurythromyacin for a night in 1991.

16. P is for people you were with today? A bunch a people at Mass, Josh, then 3 of my students, some fellow teachers and others at a college speech team performance.

17. Q is for quote:While we have the gift of life, it seems to me that only tragedy is to allow part of us to die - whether it is our spirit, our creativity, or our glorious uniqueness.

Gilda Radner

18. R is for Biggest Regret: I have none at this point. Sure there are those things I wish I didn't do or did do or whatever, but I think that we learn something even in those moments that we regret so it isn't necessarily a bad thing.

19. S is for status: Bored, a little sleepy, generally happy.

20. T is for time you woke up today: 9:00 a.m.

21. U is for underwear you have on now: basic black

22. V is for vegetable you love: Cucumbers with Italian dressing or Vinegar & Oil

23. W is for worst habit: Putting things off (especially unpleasant things)

24. X is for x-rays you've had: Broken neck, dental

25. Y is for yummy food you ate today: Nothing to write home about but had a ham/cheddar sandwich.

26. Z is for the zodiac sign: Scorpio - watch out for my sting.

I Guess I'm bored again

So here's another meme. This one stolen from Cheshire Cat.

9 Lasts....

1. Last place you were: Feldman’s Diner for dinner.
2. Last drug used: Benadryl about 15 minutes ago. Tylenol/Tylenol p.m. yesterday
3. Last beverage: Coke
4. Last kiss: Do I really have to admit this? More than a year ago. July 2005.
5. Last movie seen: Pirates of the Caribbean Dead Man’s Chest
6. Last phone call: Dad called while I was taking a nap to ask if he had a DVD delivered here. I’m amazed I remember this as I was half asleep.
7. Last CD played: John Michael Talbot – Table of Plenty
8. Last bubble bath: I honestly can’t remember… years probably.
9. Last time you cried: I’m thinking… a few days ago watching Oprah I think. It’s been a long time since the real dramatic heartbroken type tears.

Have You Evers.....

1. Have you ever dated someone twice?: Yes, Marty.
2. Have you ever been cheated on?: Yes
3. Have you ever kissed somebody and regretted it?: Yes – no details though.
4. Have you ever fallen in love?: Yes, more than once.
5. Have you ever lost someone?: Of course.
6. Have you ever been depressed?: Yes… during my marriage. I had to take anti-depressants for it.
7. Have you ever been out of the country?: Yes – I went to the Caribbean on my honeymoon. I’ve also been to Mexico briefly.
8. Have you ever been on T.V?: Very briefly… the t.v. crew filmed our class in elementary school and I was on for a split second.
9. 7 States that you have been to: New Mexico, California, Connecticut, Nevada, Michigan, Kansas, and Oklahoma… where the wind comes sweeping down the plain.

6 Things You Have Done Today....

1. Took a shower
2. Went to Kinkos to have documents printed.
3. Taught a yearbook workshop.
4. Went out to dinner.
5. Watched Monk & Psych.
6. Read blogs & blogged.

5 Favorite Things....

1. Rollercoasters.
2. My God & my Church.
3. My son.
4. Spaghetti & meatsauce
5. My laptop

4 People You Can Tell Almost Anything....

1. Richard – my ex-husband… strange, I know.
2. My friend Pam
3. My friend Carol
4. My blog readers

3 Favorite Colors

1. Blue
2. Purple
3. Green

2 Things You Want To Do Before You Die....

1. Ride 600 rollercoasters
2. Get out of debt

1 Thing You Regret.....

1. I really try to not live with regrets. I think all our experiences have something to teach us… even the bad ones.

Susan's Right

I am going to fill out this meme. I'm a little bored and just waiting for the tylenol p.m. to kick in.

1. Do you like chinese food?
Yes.. but certain dishes. I make a great cashew chicken.

2. How big is your bed?
Queen sized waterbed. It's big enough for me, usually 2 dogs and a cat.

3. Is your room clean?
It's mostly clean. It's cleaner than the rest of the house.

4. Laptop or Desktop computer?
I have both, but only use my laptop now.

5. Favorite comedian?
Rita Rudner

6. Do you smoke?
Absolutely not.

7. Does anyone like you?
I hope so. Yes, I'm sure there's a few people that like me. I have more friends than enemies at least.

8. What’s the sexiest thing about Condoleeza Rice?
Uh, I don't know.

10. Sleep with or without clothes on?
With... usually sweats and t-shirt or something similar.

11. Who sleeps with you every night?
My pets. See #2 above.

12. Do long distance relationships work?
Not for me. I think you have to be able to see each other regularly to really get to know each other.

13. Pancakes or French Toast?
French toast. I don't like pancakes.

14. Do you like coffee?
No, but sometimes I wish I did for the caffeine.

15. How do you like your eggs?
I don't like any kind of eggs. But I do like to color Easter eggs.

16. Do you believe in astrology?
No

18. Last person you talked to on the phone?
My aunt Barb.

19. Last person on your missed call list?
On my cell phone... probably Josh. On my home phone.. some unavailable telemarketer or bill collecter.

20. What was the last text message you received?
one from my student that said he'd help me paint at the school

21. McDonalds or Burger King?
Either, but I prefer Wendy's

22. Number of pillows?
Two.

23. Last thing you ate?
Fried Ice Cream

24. Last thing you bought?
Sonic drinks and food.

25. What are you hearing right now?
John Michael Talbot music CD

26. Pick a lyric?
"Let's do the Time Warp..."

27. What kind of jelly do you like on your PB & J sandwich?
Raspberry preserves

28. Can you play pool?
Yes, but I seem to play better the drunker I get. Not sure why.

29. Do you know how to swim?
Absolutely... I love swimming.

30. Favorite ice cream?
Breyer's Fried Ice Cream

31. Do you like maps?
Yes, they usually help me find where I need to go.

32. Tell me a random fact:
I once went to a taping of The Price is Right. I was upset that I wasn't called to "Come on Down"

33. Ever had a hard on at work?
Not applicable

34. Ever attend a theme party?
Yes, a toga party in college.

35. Ever do a keg stand?
No. I don't like most beers that come in party kegs.

36. Craziest place you've slept after a night of drinking?
On the floor of the bathroom in a hotel in Vegas after having a fight with my husband at the time.

37. What is your favorite season?
Spring, I guess... except for the time change.

38. What is the first music video you ever saw?
I can't remember.. but it had something to do with the letter "M" or something.

39. Pick a movie quote:
"Hope is a good thing. Maybe the best of things. And a good thing never dies. " ~The Shawshank Redemption

40. A Favorite quote:
I have several and it changes, but this is a good one:

"Human beings, by changing the inner attitudes of their minds, can change the outer aspects of their lives." ~ William James


41. What is your favorite Thirsty Thursday hangout?
I am not sure what this means, but I guess my favorite place to drink would be Applebee's.

42. Best friend's name?
Kirsten

43. How long have you known them?
35 years. (And yes, I'm 36... we basically grew up together... sort of.)

44. Last time you laughed at something stupid?
The t.v. show Psych. I'm not saying it was stupid, but it made me laugh.

45. What time did you wake up this morning?
Around 9:45, I think. I went to bed around 2:00 a.m.

46. Wake up next to anyone?
Just my dogs

47. Best thing about winter?
Snow days, time change.

48. Name a couple of favorite colors:
Purple, Green, Blue

49. How old are you?
36

50. What month is your birthday in?
November

51. Do you think pirates are cool or overrated?
They're o.k. I liked the first Pirates movie, but was disappointed in the second.

52. Favorite Dave Matthews Band song (if you have one?)
I don't know any... guess this shows how uncool I really am.

53. What are you doing this weekend?
Going to Mass.

54. Who will take this survey?
Well, I would have said Susan, but I stole it from her. Maybe Tiffany if she finds the time.

And the fun just goes on and on!

Layers....

LAYER ONE:
-- Name: Jennifer (real), Annabel (online)
--Birthplace: Northern Texas Panhandle
-- Current Location: Canyon, Texas

LAYER TWO:
-- Eye Color: hazel
-- Hair Color: Dark brown (with a few stray gray hairs until I yank them out)
-- Height: 5'4" if I stand up straight
-- Righty or Lefty: Righty
-- Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
-- Your Heritage: Heniz 57 variety with lots of German/Indian/English
-- The Shoes Worn Today: I didn't wear any shoes today because I never left the house.
-- Your Weakness: a good sale
-- Your Fears: death, flying stinging insects,
-- Your Perfect Pizza? Hand tossed, hamburger or sausage with onions
-- Goal You'd Like to Achieve: Figure out what I'm really going to be when I grow up. To grow up.

LAYER THREE:
-- Your Thoughts First Waking Up: What time is it?
-- Your Bedtime: Normally around 10:30-11:00. Lately 2:00-3:00 a.m.
-- Your Most Missed Memory: Well, memories really can't be missed.. but I do miss having good, close friends to hang out with.

LAYER FOUR:
-- Pepsi or Coke: Coke
-- McDonald's or Burger King: Haven't we answered this?
-- Single or Group Dates: Any DATE!!!! I'd just like to go out on a real date.. single, group... I don't care!!!
-- Adidas or Nike: Ryka
-- Lipton Ice Tea or Nestea: Doesn't matter
-- Chocolate or Vanilla: Both
-- Cappuccino or Coffee: Neither... but I do like the Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks

LAYER FIVE:
-- Smoke: The answer is still no. Are you trying to get me to start?
-- Cuss: Rarely any more. But yes, I still do sometimes... like when stubbing a toe or something.
-- Sing: yes, but no solos. I sing in the Church choir and in my car alone.
-- Shower Everyday: When working, yes... during the summer... if I need to or I'm going out.
-- Have a Crush: No, but wouldn't mind having one... at least it would make my blogs more interesting.
-- Want to go to College? Already did that and got a degree... but would like to get my masters.
-- Like(d) High School: Absolutely
-- Want to get Married: Yes, some day.
-- Believe in Yourself: Yes
-- Get Motion Sickness: I love rollercoasters... what do you think?
-- Think You're Attractive: I think I'm cute. I debate the attractive thing all the time.
-- Think You're a Health Freak: I know I'm not.. but should be more interested in my health... but never a freak.
-- Get Along with Your Parent(s): yes... but only have one.
-- Like Thunderstorms: I like rain and mild thunderstorms... nothing that's too close and loud.
-- Play an Instrument: Yes, clarinet.

LAYER SIX:
in the past month...
-- Drank Alcohol:Yes, last night... two bloody marys.
-- Smoked: The answer is still no.
-- Done a Drug: Provera which doesn't seem to be doing much of anything, tylenol p.m., midol
-- Had Sex: Not in over a year.
-- Made Out: no
-- Gone on a Date: still wishing
-- Gone to the Mall:no
-- Eaten an Entire Box of Oreos: no
-- Been on Stage: No.
-- Been Dumped: No.. so maybe not dating is a good thing, right?
-- Gone Skating: Not in many years
-- Made Homemade Cookies: yes, made some for the 4th of July
-- Gone Skinnydipping: never
-- Dyed Your Hair: not in 3 years or so
-- Stolen Anything: no

LAYER SEVEN:
Have you ever...
-- Played a Game that Required Removal of Clothing: Yes, I think so... probably drunk at the time.
-- If so, was it Mixed Company: I can't remember
-- Been Trashed or Extremely Intoxicated: Yes, unfortunately
-- Been Caught "Doing Something": Well... depends on what you mean by that. I'd have to say no.
-- Been Called a Tease: Yes

LAYER EIGHT:
-- Age You Hope to be Married: Maybe before I'm 40.
-- Numbers and Names of Children: 1, Josh, 15 yrs.
-- Describe Your Dream Wedding: Simple, in the Catholic Church, with a great reception
-- What do youWant to be When You Grow Up: Maybe a librarian
-- What Country Would You Most Like to Visit: Italy

LAYER NINE:

in a guy: (I changed this for myself... you can change the sex if you answer this very long meme)
-- Best Eye Color? brown
-- Best Hair Color? Dark brown or black
-- Short or Long hair: whatever as long as it's neat and looks good. (Some men don't look good in long hair)
-- Height: taller than me.. but not too tall
-- Best Articles of Clothing: jeans
-- Best First Date Location: Outback
-- Best First Kiss Location: on the lips if the attraction is there

LAYER TEN:
-- # Of Drugs Taken Illegally: 1 but nothing happened.
-- # Of People I Could Trust With My Life: not sure
-- # Of CDs That I Own: Probably 150 or so
-- # Of Piercings: Just my ears
-- # Of Tattoos: one, but want another one
-- # Of Scars on my Body: probably between 5-10

LAYER ELEVEN
Last Person Who...
-- Slept in Your Bed? Me... as far as someone else... Brian.
-- Saw You Cry? Everybody at my son's father's funeral
-- Made You Cry? Marty
-- Spent the Night at Your House? My aunt and uncle
-- You Shared a Drink With? Kirsten
-- You Went to the Movies With? Josh, his friend, and Kirsten
-- You Went to the Mall With? Josh
-- Yelled at You? janitors at the school
-- Sent You an Email? besides the spam? My former boss (if you don't count email notifications for blog comments... if so, then Summer)

LAYER TWELVE
Have You Ever...
-- Said "I love you"? Yes
-- Been to New York? No, but I want to.
-- Been to Georgia? yes, went to Atlanta for a work convention
-- California? Yes, San Diego and L.A.
-- Hawaii? No
-- Mexico? Yes, Matamoras
-- China? No
-- Canada? No, but close.
--The United Kingdom? No.
-- Danced Naked? Only in front of my husband or a boyfriend.
-- Dreamed something really crazy and then happened the next day? Not exactly, but I've had intuitions or thoughts about things and then they happened.
-- Stalked Someone? No

LAYER THIRTEEN
Pick One...
-- Apples or Bananas? Apples
-- Red or Blue? Blue
-- Walmart or Kmart? Walmart
-- Math or English? English.
-- Radio or CD? CD
-- Drawing or Painting? painting
-- High school or College? Different experiences, but I enjoyed both.

Another borrowed meme

Yesterday and Today

Borrowed from the blog of Iris.

Ten years ago:
I was 26 years old. I had been teaching junior high for two years. I met my now ex-husband in April that year so we would have been dating a few months and getting ready to go on our first trip together to St. Louis in August. I bought my first car on my own that year in March. My son was five and would be starting kindergarten in September. I was living in a house that is just down the block and around the corner from where I am now. I paid $245 a month in rent for a small two bedroom house with a small backyard. It was the most I'd ever paid in rent at the time.

Five years ago:
I was 31 years old. I had been married for about 2 1/2 years. We just bought our first house the year before. My marriage was on the rocks off and on, but was in a decent place at the time. Richard and I went to our first rollercoaster event and joined ACE that year. I was in my second year working for Jostens yearbooks.

One year ago:
I was enjoying my last summer before taking the leap back to teaching. I had been divorced for two years and it had been over a year since Marty and I had broken up. I was pretty much in the same place I am now, but now I have health insurance and my wisdom teeth out. Josh was at the end of band camp and I played in director's band again last year. I had been dating Brian from Dalhart and realized that it wasn't going to work out. There's not a post from July 21 last year, but here's the post from July 22. They day before was written about cleaning. Imagine that.

Yesterday:
Painted at the school. Played two concerts with the director's band. Went out to eat with my friend Kirsten.

Today:
Picked up Josh's stuff from his dorm at 10:30. Came home and took a shower and went to his concert at 12:30. Stayed for the Honor's band concert. After the concerts, Josh and I went to Amarillo. We went to eat at Olive Garden. Then we went to Lowe's to get tile, paint, and toilet parts. Got everything but the paint. Went to Home Depot. Got paint. Went to Barnes & Noble. Got Josh a music book. Came home. Josh got his software in the mail today. He is ecstatic. I checked my email, read blogs and am thinking of taking a nap.

Tomorrow:
Will be painting the bathroom. Maybe clean house. Pay bills. Balance my checkbook. Go to the store. Find something to make for the Church picnic on Sunday.

Five people I'm tagging

I tag anyone that wants to do this meme. Don't feel obligated. But comment if you do the meme. Or comment if you don't. Or don't comment. Do what you want.

Weird facts meme

I was tagged by latibug so I am obliging her by posting some weird facts about myself.

Here are the rules:
Tag 6 people. List some Weird Facts about yourself. Leave a link of the blogs that you tagged so others can find them easily.

Here are the facts first. I listed 10 since that is what latibug did. I admit that these are generally taken from my 100 things list (which needs to be updated), but I offer more explanation here. Regular readers probably know most of these, but hopefully my new readers will learn something interesting (or not).

1. I hate most vegetables. I do enjoy salads, but when it comes to cooked vegetables, I only eat corn, potatoes, onions and sometimes bell peppers. I especially hate beans.

2. I don't always get the Sunday paper, but when I do I have to read it in a certain order and nobody can have parts of the paper until I am finished with them, including comics which I read last. I don't read the entire paper, but skim for things that I find interesting. And NOBODY is ever allowed to read over my shoulder. I hate it when I am reading something and I turn the page and they say "Wait, I'm not finished." Aaarrrggghhhh.

3. My son and I have the same birthday. He was born on my 21st birthday. Even more strange is the fact that I was born at 9:42 p.m. and he was born at 6:42 p.m.

4. I love to ride rollercoasters and have ridden 125 different coasters. I was a member of ACE but had to let my membership lapse due to financial issues which also include the fact that I haven't been able to ride much lately. My favorite kind of coasters are steel. I don't care much for wood coasters, but will still ride them at least once.

5. I have a "thing" about memorizing numbers and birthdays. I know social security numbers of myself, my son, and my ex-husband. I know my driver's license number as well as my mother's. I can remember all my phone numbers since 2nd grade. (except for my dorm year at college) I have probably 30+ birthdays in my head right now including people I knew in junior high.

6. I tried to be on The Price is Right once. I was in the audience and got "on camera" about four times, but never called to "Come on Down." It was a fun experience. I drove with my boyfriend at the time to California in a car with no air conditioning. That was March of 1992.

7. I leave my shoes out. This used to drive my husband crazy, but it is just who I am. Right now in the living room I count 5 pairs of shoes out. When I get into a cleaning binge I will put them away, but until then, they will stay.

8. I have never been stung by a flying insect like a wasp or a bee. I am very afraid of them and I really hope that I am never stung. Unfortunately some wasps are building a nest right outside my front door and I am trying to figure out how to deal with them without getting stung.

9. I don't like much change. I tend to order the same thing at restaurants. When I contemplated buying a new car, I was going to get the same kind I already had, just a new one. I wear favorite clothes until they fall apart or I don't fit in to them any more.

10. Athough I am not into a lot of change, I can be very spontaneous. I went to Michigan for a blind date. I once drove to San Marcos to surprise my ex (when we were dating) only to discover that he left early to come home to see me.


Here are the unlucky souls that I tagged.....if you have already been tagged, then I apologize!

Susan

Summer

Jonathon (sorry, no link as his new blog is anonymous)

Patrick & Tiffany

Bret

Richard

2005 Year in Review Meme - Again

1. What did you do in 2005 that you'd never done before?
Attended a Catholic Mass

2. Did you keep your new year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
Once again, I didn’t make any resolutions other than it being a better year than the one before. For the most part it was. I may not make resolutions for next year, but may have some goals.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes. My friend Patrick and his wife had a baby. Although I haven't met Tiffany in person... I feel like I know her to some degree via blogging.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
I can’t say we were close given the circumstances, but yes, my son’s father passed away.

5. What countries did you visit?
There’s no place like home. I hardly even made it out of state only going to New Mexico this year.

6. What would you like to have in 2006 that you lacked in 2005?
More faith, love, and hope. And I didn’t lack these things… just want more.

7. What dates from 2005 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
Mid-April when Marty and I broke up. September when I started RCIA.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Changing jobs and going to church.

9. What was your biggest failure?
Losing Marty and not knowing exactly why.

10. What was the best thing you bought?
Books. Sue Grafton, Janet Evanovich and Harry Potter.

11. Whose behavior merited celebration?
I’m not sure how to answer this one. I guess my son for doing so well in band and making the musical while still keeping his grades up.

12. Whose behavior made you appalled and disgusted?
Nobody really. I guess myself at times.

13. What song will always remind you of 2005?
Blest Are They. It’s one of the songs we sang in choir. It reminds me of how blest I really am.

14. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Reading and writing.

15. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worry over Marty-which most likely led to our demise. I couldn’t help it at the time. I think I’ve grown up a great deal since then, but sometimes things are just a little too late.

16. Did you fall in love in 2005?
Sort of… with my Church. I also had to fall out of love, which sucked… but I can’t say I really stopped loving you know who.

17. What was your favorite TV program?
Monk.

18. What was the best book you read?
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

19. What one thing would have made your year measurably more satisfying?
Do we really need to rehash this? I think we all know the answer to this one.

20. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2005?
Comfortable, school clothes.

21. What kept you sane?
Going to church and blogging.

22. Who did you miss?
Marty, duh.

23. Who was the best new person you met?
My wonderful friend and sponsor, Carol. She has been a wonderful blessing in my life. Also, would be re-meeting my friend Stephanie who I’d lost touch with for many years.

24. Tell us a valuable lesson you learned in 2005.
There are no guarantees in love. Long distance relationships may very well be impossible.

25. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

We are young, heartache to heartache we stand
No promises, no demands
Love is a battlefield
We are strong, no one can tell us we’re wrong
Searchin’ our hearts for so long, both of us knowing
Love is a battlefield

40 things

Borrowed from someone else and I had nothing better to do... other than take a shower and get dressed this morning. But here goes:

1. My uncle once: took me on a camping trip with my aunt and cousins and I discovered how much I hate camping.

2. Never in my life: have I jumped out of an airplane. But I might some day.

3. When I was five: I guess I calmed down after having 108 stitches that came from getting my head stuck in a cabinet (3 behind the ear), falling off of a slid (20 in my head), and getting hit by a car and breaking my neck (80 from the surgery on my neck).

4. High School was: a lot of great times with friends. Band was a blast. I was successful with band and speech.

5. I will never forget: anything. O.k. I do forget where I leave my keys and other such things, but as far as other “stuff” I tend to have a memory like an elephant.

6. I once met: Penn, from Penn & Teller. And I can’t say I really met him. I took a picture of my then husband with him after we saw his show.

7. There's this girl I know who: I know several… but for the life of me can’t think of anything interesting to say right now. Will have to skip this one.

8. Once, at a bar: I got a mini lap dance. And it really was a strip club… not just a bar. Not something I’m proud of, but I thought that if I tried supporting my then husband in his “interests”, I wouldn’t be so upset by his wandering eyes. Didn’t work, but it was interesting.

9. By noon, I'm usually: gearing up for the bulk of my afternoon classes. I have 4 classes from noon until 3:50.

10. Last night: I did laundry, watched t.v., and made really yummy chicken parmesan.

11. If I only had: Money. It may be the root of all evil, but I sure could use a little more these days.

12. Next time I go to church: will be on Wednesday night for RCIA. And then again on Sunday.

13. Terry Shiavo: very sad.

14. What worries me most: right now, money. I also worry whether I’m doing a good job with my son. I want him to grow up happy and be successful in whatever he chooses.

15. When I turn my head left, I see: bookshelves loaded with books. I immediately see the shelf with Janet Evanovich and Sue Grafton books.

16. When I turn my head right, I see: The hallway, my dad’s old victrola.

17. You know I'm lying when: you don’t. I’m not necessarily proud, but generally if I’m lying you won’t know it.

18. What I miss most about the eighties: the music. The fact that life was so much more simple then.

19. If I was a character in Shakespeare, I'd be: Lady McBeth… at least that is what my ex would say… because I wanted to tell him what to do. I think I might be more like Juliet, but smarter… I wouldn’t kill myself over love, but I might do some stupid things.

20. By this time next year: I will be in probably the same place I am… but will be Catholic. I’d like to think that perhaps I might find someone to date, by then, but it’s not very promising.

21. A better name for me would be: I don’t know… I think I fit my name. I did hear from my parents that they almost decided on Michelle. But I don’t think that would have fit me.

22. I have a hard time understanding: stupidity. People that are mean. Geometry.

23. If I ever go back to school, I'll: get my masters and certification in Library Science.

24. You know I like you if: I talk to you… I don’t know… I like everybody until they tick me off.

25. If I ever won an award, the first person I'd thank would be: whomever helped me achieve that particular award and my son.

26. Darwin, Mozart, Slim Pickens & Geraldine Ferraro: Interesting notions, great music, cowboy (had to look him up), and the wrong woman for the job.

27. Take my advice, never: underestimate a woman scorned.

28. My ideal breakfast is: French toast, bacon, and hashbrowns.

29. A song I love, but do not have is: “I can only imagine” It was played at my mom’s memorial service, but I don’t have the CD.

30. If you visit my hometown, I suggest: you got to the Panhandle Plains Museum and to Palo Duro Canyon.

31. Tulips, character flaws, microchips & track stars: Pretty, we all have them, vital, and Jesse Owens.

32. Why won't people: just be nice? Just move on? Forgive more easily?

33. If you spend the night at my house: you need to give me a day’s notice and love animals.

34. I'd stop my wedding for: cheesecake… not really. I don’t know. A tornado warning?

35. The world could do without: People that are mean and stupid. And crickets, roaches and most insects in general.

36. I'd rather lick the belly of a cockroach than: I'd rather die than lick the belly of a cockroach.

37. My favorite blonde is: is my friend Stephanie, who is more brunette than blonde, but is the closest one I can think of.

38. Paper clips are more useful than: thumbtacks… I don’t know. Stupid question.

39. If I do anything well, it's: playing my clarinet, working on computers, and kiss.

40. And by the way: I’m not dating anyone from the internet any more.

Listing

Ok, found this on another journal and then was asked to complete it myself... here goes...
You have to list:

Thirteen random things you like...
1. rollercoasters
2. cats
3. books
4. games
5. music (not rap, or heavy metal)
6. flowers
7. sunsets
8. water
9. Vegas
10. museums
11. Italian food
12. Marvin the Martian
13. cheesecake

Twelve movies...
1. Titanic
2. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
3. The Shawshank Redemption
4. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (and the other 2)
5. Rat Race
6. Blazing Saddles
7. Big
8. The Princess Bride
9. Parenthood
10. Mary Poppins
11. Grease
12. Amadeus

Eleven good bands/artists...
1. Olivia Newton John
2. Garth Brooks
3. Journey
4. Chicago
5. J. Giles Band
6. Travis Tritt
7. Phil Collins
8. Richard Marx
9. Bryan Adams
10. Faith Hill
11. Survivor

Ten things about you...
1. I’m cute
2. I play the clarinet
3. I have 5 cats
4. I broke my neck when I was 4
5. I like to read
6. I’m smart
7. I was a speech teacher
8. I collect marvin the martian items
9. I have a tattoo
10. I hate most vegetables

Nine good friends...
1. Kirsten
2. Pam
3. Cristal & Matt
4. Candi
5. David M
6. Patrick
7. Martin
8. Jessica & David
9. Richard

Eight favorite foods/drinks...
1. Spaghetti
2. Fettucini Alfredo
3. Enchiladas
4. Coke, DP, Rootbeer
5. Reunite Lambrusco
6. Bloody Marys, pina coladas, margaritas, colorado bulldogs…
7. Burgers & Fries
8. Steak


Seven things you wear daily...
1. Contacts or glasses
2. underwear (most of the time)
3. bra (most of the time)
4. shoes
5. marvin watch
6. mother’s mothers ring
7. makeup (mostly)

Six things that annoy you...
1. bad drivers
2. dishonesty
3. stupid people
4. irresponsibility
5. dripping faucets
6. not being able to sleep

Five things you touch everyday
1. myself (not in that way…. Well, not always)
2. my pets
3. a book (usually)
4. my calendar
5. computer

Four Shows that you watch
1. CSI
2. Friends
3. Monk
4. young and the Restless


Three websites
1. www.jostens.com
2. www.aceonline.org
3. www.google.com


Two unusual places you've been
1. Island of St. Lucia in the Carribbean
2. Taping of the Price is Right

One person you could spend the rest of your life with
1. Josh, my son.